Real Madrid News
Real Madrid cool interest in Spanish midfielder as Florentino Perez changes transfer plan
For much of the past few months, Rodri’s name has repeatedly surfaced whenever discussions turned to Real Madrid’s midfield plans.
The Manchester City star seemed like an obvious fit on paper, but as the summer transfer window looms, the reality appears very different.
According to Guillermo Rai of The Athletic, Rodri is no longer considered one of Real Madrid’s leading midfield targets, with his chances of arriving at the Santiago Bernabeu having dropped significantly in recent weeks.
The development is a notable shift in direction for a club that continues to assess potential additions in midfield ahead of a major squad rebuild under new manager Jose Mourinho.
Slipping out of Real Madrid’s transfer plans
Rodri became a frequent topic during Real Madrid’s recent presidential election campaign.
Enrique Riquelme, who challenged Florentino Perez for the presidency, publicly promised to bring the Manchester City midfielder to the Bernabeu if he won the election.
The pledge generated excitement and inevitably intensified speculation surrounding the player’s future.
However, the aforementioned outlet confirms that Real Madrid’s approach has evolved.
So what now?
While the club remains active in exploring midfield reinforcements, Rodri is no longer viewed as one of the most realistic options available.
Recent links between the player and Los Blancos have lost momentum, and there is little indication that a transfer is currently advancing.
One of the biggest reasons is that Manchester City are reportedly working to secure a contract extension, with negotiations progressing positively.
Yet it must be remembered that City’s position is not the only factor influencing Real Madrid’s decision-making.
As such, there is also a growing feeling within the club that the focus should be directed towards younger profiles capable of becoming long-term pillars of the project, which is why Rodri can now be ruled out.
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.
