Real Madrid News
Former defender warns Real Madrid superstar forward over contract tactics – ‘These fights are poisonous’
Former Real Madrid defender and current Athletic Club sporting director Rafael Alkorta has spoken out about Vinicius Jr.’s contract situation at the Santiago Bernabeu.
With the Brazilian winger reportedly in a stand-off with the club over his new deal, Alkorta has offered some pointed advice, urging him not to push too hard against club president Florentino Perez.
Vinicius’ contract renewal talks have reportedly hit a wall. The latest updates suggest a disagreement over the net salary the forward is demanding compared to what Real Madrid are currently offering.
This has led to a flurry of opinions in the Spanish football scene, and Alkorta didn’t hold back when addressing the issue.
“Trying to squeeze Florentino Perez can go wrong. Let’s remember what happened with Ramos,” Alkorta said on Cadena SER (h/t SPORT).
What happened with Ramos?
It is to be noted that he was referring to the saga involving Sergio Ramos, who rejected a renewal offer from Florentino, only to try and accept it months later, at which point it had already expired. As a result, Ramos had no choice but to leave the club.
Alkorta believes something similar could happen with Vinicius if he is not careful.
He highlighted the club president’s firm stance in such negotiations: “Since they took him off the left wing, I haven’t seen him well.
“Playing with Mbappe has cost him. They are young and ambitious, but the environment must advise them better. Now is not the time to demand as if I had had a great season,” Alkorta explained.
Urging to do better
The former centre-back urged Vinicius to put his energy into improving on the pitch instead of creating off-field distractions. “Last year, modifying the scheme for him and Mbappe to play didn’t work at all.
“If you focus on performing at your best, the rest will come by itself. Madrid always rewards those who prove their worth on the pitch.”
In closing, Alkorta issued one last warning about how Real Madrid operates under Florentino.
“These fights are poisonous. Florentino is affectionate, but he does not hesitate to make tough decisions. It must be cold. If he has a good season, he will have the strength to negotiate,” he said.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
