Real Madrid News
Former Real Madrid midfielders point fingers at one player after Declan Rice free kicks
Thibaut Courtois came under fire from two former Real Madrid icons, Clarence Seedorf and Wesley Sneijder, following his performance in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg at the Emirates Stadium.
The Belgian goalkeeper conceded two goals from direct free-kicks scored by Declan Rice, who was hailed across Europe for his outstanding display, but not everyone was fully convinced that Courtois did all he could to prevent the goals.
Wesley Sneijder, never shy to share a blunt opinion, questioned the level of difficulty attributed to Rice’s efforts and directly pointed fingers at Courtois and the defensive setup.
“I don’t see those as very impressive pitches,” Sneijder stated.
“It might sound a bit crazy to say this—it looks very difficult, but it’s very easy to hit the ball with that curve when you know how to shoot, and I know a lot about that. The wall is to blame.”
Analysing the setup
Sneijder didn’t stop there. He analysed the second goal—one that nestled into the top corner—and felt Courtois’ positioning was once again questionable.
“You see Courtois take a step to the right, which means he has no options in his own area. That’s because of the uncertainty after the first goal.
“That’s why he’s taking a gamble. If he trusts his wall and stays on his side, he has the ball.”
Seedorf’s take
Backing Sneijder’s take, Clarence Seedorf added his own thoughts, suggesting Courtois failed to adequately organise his defence and was left exposed.
“Rice read the situation well, he saw the space, but Courtois didn’t cover the area well with only four players. Still, you have to shoot well. You have to give him credit for that—for the confidence with which he hits the ball.”
While Rice’s brace from set-pieces dominated headlines and wowed spectators, the analysis from these Dutch legends will give Real Madrid something to think about ahead of the second leg.
For Courtois, whose return from injury had been met with optimism, the comments from Seedorf and Sneijder serve as a reminder that expectations remain high, especially in Champions League ties of this magnitude.
Source: SPORT
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.
