Real Madrid News
Raul backs Castilla playmaker to become a part of Real Madrid’s first-team plans
Sergio Arribas is by far one of the most talented players to come out of the Real Madrid academy in recent years.
Currently plying his trade for Castilla, the young playmaker has been a star performer for the subsidiary squad. He has even racked up ten competitive appearances for the Real Madrid senior squad.
In light of his success, RM Castilla head coach Raul has backed Arribas to soon become a part of the Real Madrid first-team. “Sergio Arribas’ time at Castilla is coming to an end. I hope he becomes a part of the first team,” he said (h/t MARCA).
Arribas’ current contract at Real Madrid does not expire until 2025. However, there are growing speculations that the player might not necessarily make a breakthrough in the Real Madrid first team, which in turn, could see him deported elsewhere on a loan deal.
Raul, though, is firm that the Spaniard has what it takes to make an impression at the highest level and believes he should become a part of Carlo Ancelotti’s plans next season.
Luka Modric will not continue for much longer, whereas there are uncertainty looming over the future of Marco Asensio. Their potential exits from Santiago Bernabeu could pave the way for Real Madrid to look for new players.
Arribas, to that end, could be an excellent option. The Spaniard has shown exceptional performances in the Castilla squad this season, not only providing the creative essence but also scoring seven goals.
During his media interaction, Raul did hint that Arribas is already on the radar of the first team, adding, “We have direct communication with Ancelotti and Davide about the matches, they have all the information on everything that happens.”
As we approach the final phase of the 2022/23 campaign, Real Madrid are facing immense pressure to renew the contracts of two of their veterans Karim Benzema and Luka Modric.
According to a recent report from Josep Pedrerol, Real Madrid have been made aware that Saudi Arabian clubs have contacted the two, with the aim of bringing them to the Middle East to enhance their league.
Modric has been facing an uncertain future with his contract expiring at the end of the season. While he is in talks with Madrid over a renewal, the midfielder has also been approached by Saudi Arabian clubs, as they look to enhance the league by roping in stars from Europe.
Al Nassr notably made headlines earlier in the year by bringing in Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United. Since then, Saudi clubs have been linked with moves for players like Sergio Ramos, Eden Hazard and even Lionel Messi.
Modric, too, is considered one of the top targets for Saudi clubs. Although the midfielder has expressed his desire to continue at the Bernabeu for at least another year, a deal with Real Madrid has not materialised. This has opened up a window of opportunity for Saudi clubs to make their move.
Meanwhile, Karim Benzema was reported to be close to finalising a renewal recently, but an agreement is yet to be reached. The Frenchman has had his share of struggles with injuries and fitness this season, which has led to questions about his longevity and future at Real Madrid.
While the links to a move to Saudi Arabia have not been as prominent for Benzema, it is expected that the Saudi clubs may jump on any opportunity to lure the striker to the Middle East.
Real Madrid are aware of the situation and are working to secure the futures of their star players. However, with the prospect of lucrative contracts being offered by the Saudi Arabian clubs, the players themselves may be tempted to make the move.
