Real Madrid News
Former Real Madrid forward voices support for top defensive transfer – ‘He has my number’
Real Madrid and Liverpool have faced off in several UEFA Champions League classics before, and they will do so once again this week.
Los Blancos travel to Anfield as the relative underdogs as they go up head to head against one of the most in-form teams in Europe in Arne Slot’s Liverpool.
While the focus will be on the game on Wednesday night, one cannot help but reminisce about an ongoing storyline of Trent Alexander Arnold potentially leaving the Merseyside club and joining Real Madrid on a free transfer next summer.
The youngster’s participation on the night, however, continues to be a grey area. Although if recent developments are anything to go up, he is likely to feature.
Michael Owen’s advice
The young defender’s dream of leaving Liverpool for Real Madrid reminds one of the famous switch that Michael Owen made 20 years ago, a transfer that did not go down well as he struggled in Spain.
Speaking to the Independent, the England legend spoke on Trent’s situation and admitted he was open to giving him advice.
“Trent’s got my number. I would be at the end of the phone for anyone who wanted to discuss it,” he said jovially.
Speaking on what tempted players to leave big clubs for Real Madrid and attributed it to the dream of having a ‘perfect’ ending to club football.
“Everyone wants the perfect ending to a career. Bowing out with plenty saying you should stay for another season.”
Assessing the pros and cons
Speaking on the pros and cons of the defender’s potential decision, he spoke on how it would indeed be tempting for the player to sign for Real Madrid but also stressed the complications it would inevitably bring.
“Some of the best careers have ended on a damp note without that fanfare. Trent knows the pros and cons. He is a sensible lad.”
“He has to weigh all that up. If he wants to play in that white kit, in that amazing stadium with his mate Jude Bellingham, it must be tempting,” he added.
Owen then spoke on Trent’s legacy so far at Anfield and how it will all come undone the day he leaves for a different club.
“Trent has done everything for Liverpool. He adores Liverpool. If he goes, no one should begrudge him a different experience in his life and career.”
“Whatever happens he should be regarded as a hero. Sadly, it does affect the way people view you. It will tarnish him in some eyes even though it shouldn’t,” 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.
