Real Madrid News
Real Madrid cool interest in Premier League midfielder until the World Cup
At one point not too long ago, Rodri was Real Madrid’s top midfield target for the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Manchester City star, often considered one of the best players in his position when fit, was after all seen to be the exact profile Los Blancos needed in terms of quality, experience and leadership.
Since then, however, a lot has changed and the club have begun scouting alternative options as well. His name remains in the loop but has moved out of the spotlight.
Decision deferred
As reported in a recent update by Ramon Alvarez de Mon, the UEFA Champions League knockout stage game has recently dampened Real Madrid’s interest in Rodri temporarily.
One possible reason may be the fact that the team comfortably cruised into the quarterfinal with a stable showing in midfield, but the bigger reason is perhaps that they did so against Manchester City with Rodri himself starting and playing a big part in both games.
Los Blancos indeed have not written him off and do still believe that a new midfielder is needed, however, they have deferred their decision over his incorporation until after the FIFA World Cup.
The premier international event, at this point, will be critical in deciding Real Madrid’s decision over Rodri with Enzo Fernande and Adam Wharton arising as possible alternatives.
So far this season, the 29-year-old Manchester City star has started 14 league games for his club and has one goal to show. He averages 1.3 key passes and 90% pass completion per game and has created two big chances in the event.
He was, in fact, one of his team’s better players against Real Madrid over two legs when they recently faced off with three key passes over the two legs.
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.
