Real Madrid News
Real Madrid defender wary of Union Berlin: “I know how difficult these games will be”
Following the end of the season’s first international break, Real Madrid will restart their season as they play hosts to Real Sociedad at Santiago Bernabeu this weekend.
However, fans will keep one eye on the upcoming Champions League affair against Union Berlin, a novel opponent for the European giants.
Union Berlin qualified for the Champions League following their fourth-placed finish in the Bundesliga last term. It will be the first time the East German outfit takes part in this coveted competition.
David Alaba on Union Berlin match
Heading into this game, Real Madrid superstar David Alaba talked about Union Berlin as an opponent.
During an interview with BILD, Alaba warned that the Bundesliga outfit could prove to be a tricky opponent, stating:
“They have had very special years and have earned their place in the Champions League. They have strengthened themselves for this season with well-known players. I have played against Union with Bayern and know how difficult these games will be.”
Alaba is indeed well acquainted with Union Berlin, thanks to his time at Bayern. He faced Union three times during his career, only one of which ended in a victory for the Austrian.
Although Alaba has never lost against Union, the fact that he has drawn against Die Eisernen twice with a team like Bayern is a testament to the club’s strength and resolve.
Union Berlin: Akin to Real Madrid
Despite the David vs Goliath nature of this game, Union Berlin and Real Madrid share a lot of similarities in terms of their tactical setups.
For one, Union Berlin are known for their defensive solidity, with emphasis on sharp counter-attacks that can take the opposition by surprise.
In Kevin Behrens, Union have a reliable frontman while players like Josip Juranovic, Robin Gosens, and Kevin Volland can offer width out wide, thus stretching out the opposing defence.
Real Madrid, therefore, must proceed with caution and the experience of David Alaba could certainly be critical as the European champions look to kickstart their Champions League campaign on a good note.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid very happy with future star Endrick, eagerly awaiting his arrival in 2024 – Romano
Real Madrid’s attacking unit has been crippled by the loss of Karim Benzema earlier in the summer, which was followed by the loss of Vinicius Jr due to injury.
Although Vinicius has returned, there is much left to be desired from the Madrid frontline as we progress through to the season.
Real Madrid, though, are waiting on the arrival of Endrick. The young Brazilian is set to join the Real Madrid squad in the summer of 2024 when he turns 18.
Real Madrid impressed by Endrick
Endrick has already started his preparation for his pending move to Santiago Bernabeu, having performed exceptionally well in his native Brazil this year.
The youngster is constantly working on his game, in order to further improve himself as an attacker. It has left Real Madrid quite happy and eager for his arrival, reports Fabrizio Romano.
The journalist claims that Real Madrid have been keeping close tabs on everything Endrick has been doing, on and off the pitch, at Palmeiras.
And they have received very good reports on the 17-year-old, with the club impressed by how he is putting efforts to improve himself both performance-wise and in other facets.
Despite there being some question marks over his performances, the teenage forward is starting to showcase his potential, having scored five goals in five starts for Palmeiras.
Endrick also learning new languages
Endrick is not only just working on his performance. In fact, the Brazilian is also learning other languages in order to quickly settle into life in Spain.
The youngster can speak Portuguese, but he may have to master Spanish during his time at Santiago Bernabeu.
As mentioned earlier, Endrick can already speak Portuguese, which should go a long way in helping him team up with fellow Brazilians Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo.
Even Eder Militao can speak Portuguese, which should make it easier for Endrick to adapt to life in Spain, at least for the next year or so.
