Real Madrid News
Modric offered a chance to retire at and coach Qatari giants – report
Al Sadd first came into the spotlight when Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez signed for them back in 2015. The Spanish maestro played for the Qatari team until 2019 after which he took over the reigns as the manager for the same club.
According to reports from Romain Molina (h/t Madrid Xtra), Real Madrid icon Luka Modric has a similar offer on the table. Al Sadd have offered the Croatian the option to end his career in their colours and then take over as the coach.
They are, however, not the only Middle East establishment interested in Modric’s signature. Al-Ahli of Saudi Arabia are equally keen on the Real Madrid star, although they do not offer the option to become their manager as of now.
Modric is no stranger to receiving lucrative offers. For a player of his calibre and experience, it is only natural that there remains a constant inflow of transfer proposals. In fact, he has rejected multiple offers from Asian clubs in recent months.
At 37 years of age, the veteran has no dearth of drive to compete at the highest level. And it was believed that the Croatian midfielder has promised another season to Real Madrid and will stay through next season.
However, it is inevitable that the midfielder leaves the Santiago Bernabeu at some point. And earlier today, reports suggested that Modric was seriously considering the prospect of a move to Saudi Arabia after receiving a fresh, lucrative two-year contract offer.
It remains to be seen how many more years of magic the veteran has in his legs. Yet, it is likely that his connection with the sport will not end with his retirement as a player.
Modric is one of the exceptionally intelligent players of the generation and has all the qualities required to pitch up a successful managerial career. Needless to say, the opportunity in Qatar may hold more to it than it appears.
However, whether Modric chooses to take up Al Sadd’s proposal, moves to Saudi Arabia, or continues at Real Madrid remains to be seen.
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.
