Real Madrid News
Juventus full-back emerges as Real Madrid’s plan B for priority target – report
Real Madrid’s search for reinforcements continues, and according to a report from Real Madrid Confidencial, Juventus left-back Andrea Cambiaso has emerged as a backup option for the Spanish giants.
This alternative plan would come into play if the club fails to secure the signing of Alphonso Davies from Bayern Munich next summer.
Strengthening the full-back positions remains a top priority for Real Madrid, especially with the need to replace key departures and address gaps in the squad.
Davies, widely regarded as one of the best full-backs in the world, is undoubtedly their primary target.
However, signing the Canadian international may prove challenging due to several factors, including Bayern Munich’s reluctance to let go of such a pivotal player.
Which is why…
In case this deal becomes unattainable, Real Madrid appear to have identified Cambiaso as a viable Plan B.
While earlier reports suggested Miguel Gutierrez, a former academy graduate now at Girona, could be considered, the attention has seemingly shifted towards Cambiaso.
The young Italian defender has shown immense potential during his time with Juventus and is already being touted as one of Italy’s brightest talents.
Cambiaso’s qualities make him a compelling candidate for Real Madrid. He is versatile, defensively solid, and capable of contributing to the attack, traits that align well with the club’s requirements for full-backs.
Despite Gutierrez’s familiarity with La Liga and his progression in Spain, Cambiaso’s growing reputation in Serie A has placed him firmly on Real Madrid’s radar.
Could be cost-effective too
One key aspect influencing this potential move is Cambiaso’s market value, which is estimated to be around €30 million. While this price may seem reasonable for a player of his calibre, negotiating with Juventus could be complex.
The Italian club is unlikely to sell easily, given that Cambiaso’s current contract runs until 2029, granting them significant leverage in discussions.
The decision ultimately lies with Real Madrid’s board. They must carefully assess whether Cambiaso fits into the club’s long-term plans or if pursuing other options would be more beneficial.
For now, the club remains focused on finalising their strategy for strengthening the squad ahead of next season.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho reacts to Vinicius suspension: “Why announce it two hours before an important match?”
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has questioned the RFEF Disciplinary Committee’s decision to announce Vinicius Jr.’s four-match suspension just hours before their UEFA Champions League meeting with AS Roma on Wednesday.
The Brazilian has been hit with a four-match ban for his red card against Villarreal, meaning he will miss the matches against Sevilla, Barcelona, Racing Santander, and Valencia.
And, speaking to Movistar+ (h/t MARCA) before the match, the Real Madrid manager was asked whether the punishment could affect the Brazilian psychologically.
Mourinho instead turned his attention to the football authorities and the timing of their announcement.
“I think that is a question for the Committee. Why have they announced the suspension at this particular moment? If you are asking me this question, it is presumably because you think it could affect him,” the Portuguese coach replied.
“You should ask the Committee why they did not announce it this morning, or tomorrow morning. Why do they do it two hours before a match that is important for Real Madrid, which is a Spanish club?” he added, questioning the timing of the decision.
Mourinho explains his tactical approach against Roma
The Real Madrid manager also outlined his plan for facing a Roma side known for their aggressive pressing.
“My intention is to stop them from pressing us so high up the pitch, given the players we have available and as a precaution,” he said.
Continuing, the Portuguese manager added: “They press man-to-man higher up the pitch better than anyone else, and we will see whether we can take advantage of that. If not, they will have to drop their press five or ten metres.”
Why Rudiger over Huijsen
Mourinho also justified his decision to start Antonio Rudiger at centre-back alongside Ibrahima Konate rather than Dean Huijsen.
“They played very well together in the last match, Rudiger and Konate, showing great leadership and the ability to withstand a difficult situation when we had ten men for 30 minutes,” he said.
“I am not saying Dean is not capable of playing a match like this, but this is a wonderful atmosphere for Roma and a difficult one for us. I think a player with Antonio’s experience can be important,” Mourinho added.
Finally, Mourinho was asked about his emotions ahead of returning to face Roma, the club he managed between 2021 and 2024.
The Portuguese coach offered a brief response, saying that he had his feelings about the occasion “blocked”.
