Real Madrid News
Pep Guardiola admits harsh reality after Real Madrid defeat – ‘It was impossible’
Pep Guardiola did not need many words to sum up the night, as Manchester City’s Champions League exit at the hands of Real Madrid left the City manager visibly frustrated.
Speaking after the 1-2 defeat in the second leg, Guardiola’s tone was that of frustration rather than anger.
When asked about the sending-off of Bernardo Silva, a moment that effectively ended any realistic comeback hopes, he chose not to dwell on it.
“The referee called it, didn’t he? Well, that’s that.”
He then put into perspective just how damaging that moment was in the context of the tie, especially given Real Madrid’s dominance across both legs.
“Ten against nine, with them leading 4-0, it was impossible.”
Wanted a fair contest
The red card not only altered the dynamics of the match but also removed any chance of a contest in Guardiola’s eyes.
He made it clear that what disappointed him most was not just the defeat, but the inability to see the game unfold under equal conditions.
“It’s a shame we couldn’t play it 11 vs. 11, especially with the goal; that’s all we have left.
“I congratulate Madrid; the first leg decided the tie. I would have liked to play eleven against eleven.”
Praise for Arbeloa
Despite the disappointment, Guardiola also took a moment to acknowledge the work of Real Madrid’s manager, Alvaro Arbeloa.
The Spaniard, still early in his managerial journey, has quickly made an impression and Guardiola did not hold back in his assessment.
“Good—I liked him. He’s made a great start, linking up well with his teammates and showing a lot of quality.
“He’s made a very good impression; I predict a long career for him.”
Real Madrid have often been seen as his biggest obstacle in Europe, especially for City, but Guardiola mentioned a different name.
“My biggest challenge has been Klopp. You were here in Spain and didn’t realise what that was like.
“To play so many times against Madrid, with the generation we had, we were more than a match for them.
“We’ve both won; statistically, we’ve been on par. They’ve knocked us out more often, but given how we played, I think they know it too,” he concluded.
Source: AS
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.
