Real Madrid News
Mourinho angle emerges as Italian heavyweights push to hijack Real Madrid deal
Real Madrid are already making early moves ahead of the summer window, and one name on their radar is Nico Paz.
After an impressive spell in Italy, the young midfielder is now at the centre of a growing transfer battle, with multiple clubs monitoring his situation closely.
As reported before, Real Madrid will activate their buy-back clause for Nico, which would bring him back from Como ahead of next season.
The clause, valued at around €9 million, gives Madrid full control over his immediate future, and they have until the end of May to make it official.
There is no urgency yet, but the intention is clear – the club sees him as part of their long-term project.
Inter Milan still keen
As such, Nico’s development in Italy has not gone unnoticed. That progress has naturally attracted interest, especially from Inter Milan, who are one of the most serious admirers.
The Italian giants are believed to be closely tracking the situation, hoping for a potential opening if Madrid hesitate.
According to AS, though, they are not alone, but they are currently leading the chase among Serie A clubs.
There is also another factor affecting this story, which is the managerial situation at Real Madrid.
The Jose Mourinho angle
With uncertainty surrounding the next head coach, names like Jose Mourinho have been mentioned.
In Italy, it has been suggested that if a manager with a different tactical approach arrives, it could influence how Nico is viewed within the squad.
A coach’s preference always plays a key role, especially for young players trying to break into the first team.
Despite that, Madrid remain in a strong position. Bringing Nico back is a relatively low-cost move, and it allows them to assess him closely during pre-season.
At the same time, they also hold a financial advantage; retaining 50% of his rights means they would benefit significantly from any future sale, even if they decide not to reintegrate him.
This leaves Real Madrid with multiple options. They can bring him back and test his level within the squad, loan him again for further development, or even consider a sale if the right offer arrives.
What is clear, however, is that Nico is now a player attracting serious attention across Europe.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
