Real Madrid News
Former Real Madrid captain gives his verdict on Xabi Alonso dismissal – ‘Just one of those things’
After facing immense flak from the footballing fraternity for sacking Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid are breathing a little bit easier right now.
Following their shock Copa Del Rey exit, the team has done exceptionally well under new manager Alvaro Arbeloa, with even Florentino Perez reportedly playing a key role in the improvement.
However, Xabi Alonso still remains the topic of conversation for many, including former Real Madrid captain Lucas Vazquez.
What Vazquez said about Xabi Alonso’s exit
Speaking to the media ahead of Bayer Leverkusen’s Champions League game against Villarreal, Vazquez was notably asked about Alonso’s exit.
In response, the right-back reminded everyone that living up to the expectations at Real Madrid is indeed quite difficult, and Alonso’s dismissal was merely a byproduct of the failed expectations.
“Just one of those things in football,” said Vazquez (h/t Mundo Deportivo), who left Real Madrid last summer to join Bayer Leverkusen, the former club of Xabi Alonso.
“It’s not the first time this has happened. Real Madrid is the most demanding club in the world. When something isn’t working, there are changes,” the versatile right-back added.
With over 400 competitive appearances for Los Blancos, Vazquez had been at Real Madrid for nearly all his career. He was, in fact, a reserve player for Real Madrid when Alonso used to play for the first team.
Nevertheless, it is clear that the Spaniard has a massive amount of respect for Alonso, especially given that he was also a coach for his current club, Leverkusen.
But Vazquez is also aware of the fact that things didn’t work out between Alonso and Real Madrid, and having been at the Spanish capital club almost all his life, he is not surprised at all by their decision to sack the Basque manager earlier this month.
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.
