Real Madrid News
Official: Sergio Arribas leaves Real Madrid for UD Almeria
In what has been known for quite a few days now, Real Madrid have confirmed the departure of attacking midfield prodigy Sergio Arribas to UD Almeria.
“Real Madrid C. F. and U. D. Almería have agreed the transfer of the player Sergio Arribas,” the official statement read.
“Real Madrid would like to express its gratitude and affection to Arribas and wishes him and all his family the best of luck in this new stage.”
Arribas had been at Real Madrid for over ten years now, having joined the club’s youth academy back in 2012 as a ten-year-old.
The Spanish ace had been heralded as one of the finest young prospects coming through the ranks at the club and he constantly showcased his quality and potential for the Castilla outfit over the past couple of seasons.
Arribas also played 14 times for Real Madrid’s first team, but given the competition for places in the position he plays, it was agreed that a departure would be the best option for him to continue his development.
There had been no shortage of interest in Arribas, with several La Liga clubs and a few from Bundesliga showing an interest. Ultimately, though, he has signed for Almeria.
The Athletic reports that Almeria will pay €6 million plus €1 million in add-ons for 50% of the player’s rights with Real Madrid also retaining a first refusal option.
Arribas has signed a six-year contract with his new club with the deal containing a €40 million release clause.
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.
