Real Madrid News
Former Real Madrid defensive target does not regret snubbing the club for Manchester United: ‘It is my decision, my career’
Real Madrid’s defence was all over the place last season and far from secure – something Dean Huijsen’s signing and Eder Militao’s return from injury have helped solve this season.
The management and administration, however, were aware of the lacuna in the department well before the previous campaign. In fact, they have had the defence marked in red as a department to reinforce for a long time now.
Leny Yoro, in that regard, was a top target for Los Blancos in the summer of 2024 as the club saw him as one of the best young talents in world football.
Despite initially being open to waiting for a year and arriving for free, the youngster went on to sign for Manchester United in July 2024, thereby snubbing Real Madrid despite the club’s interest.
Yoro has no regrets
The Manchester United star spoke to MARCA in a recent interview where he opened up about his decision to sign for the Premier League side over Real Madrid who were also seriously interested in his signing.
“Sometimes, this is a decision that must be made in a professional career,” he said, making it clear that he was proud of his choice.
Yoro then elaborated on how it was his personal decision to sign for Manchester United knowing full well of their struggles, and how he saw it as a challenge.
“Today my choice is Manchester [United], and I’m very happy with that. I know that some did not understand it because of the results, but honestly, it is my decision, my career. I know what I do and I’m going to improve in the future.”
Manchester United finished 15th in the Premier League last season, just above the relegation zone, far from what is expected of them. When asked about whether he regretted signing for the club at any time last season, he said,
“Even last season, I never had this feeling of regret. I know Manchester United; I know that sometimes you can have a bad season, but this club is still top-level. You can have no doubts about it.”
Finally, the player expressed optimism about his current team’s chances of a resurgence and again made it clear indirectly that Real Madrid is no longer on his mind.
“Of course, I didn’t expect to finish 15th in my first season. But there are things to face. You have the director of the club, the coach, all the players: they are there to demand you to the maximum every day.”
“You have confidence in this club. You must raise your head every day and try to give your best,” he added.
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.
