Real Madrid News
Real Madrid defensive target gives massive hint about his contract renewal in Germany
The future of Nico Schlotterbeck has been in focus for quite some time now, especially amid reports linking him to a move to Real Madrid.
In recent weeks, though, it has been reported extensively that the German international is set to renew his contract at Borussia Dortmund.
Although Schlotterbeck, in a recent interaction, has refused to confirm these rumours, the defender has given his biggest hint yet about a potential renewal at Dortmund.
Schlotterbeck on renewing at Dortmund
Speaking to a Sky Sports journalist, Florian Plettenberg, Schlotterbeck was asked about his future amid reports of a renewal at Dortmund.
In response, the German international confirmed he is indeed in talks with Dortmund and had already had a good conversation with Lars Ricken and newly-appointed sporting director Ole Book.
“I had a good conversation with Lars Ricken and with Ole Book. The negotiations will continue this week. I think it won’t be long before I make my decision,” he said.
“I’ve been saying this all along: Of course, I can imagine staying. But all the discussions have to be right. Now we’ll see how things develop,” he added.
This is by far Schlotterbeck’s biggest indication surrounding a potential contract renewal at Borussia Dortmund, which in turn could serve as a massive blow for Real Madrid.
The Spanish giants, though, will always remain in contention to sign the talented centre-back at a later time, as reports suggest that the defender may have a release clause embedded in his contract.
Keeping that in mind, Real Madrid might be able to approach Schlotterbeck in the summer of 2027. But for the coming summer, the club may have to look elsewhere in their bid to bring in defensive reinforcements.
Real Madrid News
Jose Mourinho backed by FC Porto president to revive Real Madrid fortunes: ‘Still one of the best in the world’
Andre Villas-Boas has thrown his support behind Jose Mourinho, insisting the Real Madrid manager remains one of the best coaches in world football despite the difficult challenge facing him at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The former Porto manager, now the club’s president, believes Mourinho is well suited to the task of rebuilding Real Madrid after being appointed by Florentino Perez last summer.
Real Madrid are still searching for their first major trophy after two disappointing campaigns, while Barcelona have made an imposing start to the season.
Villas-Boas backs Mourinho at Real Madrid
Mourinho’s appointment was intended to bring a change in fortunes after Real Madrid endured two seasons without a major title.
His task, however, has become more complicated with Barcelona establishing themselves as a formidable force at the start of the campaign.
Villas-Boas nevertheless believes his compatriot has the experience and personality required for the challenge.
“Jose Mourinho is still one of the best in the world; I’ve always known that. And now he’s managing the best club in the world.
“It’s a shame that Barcelona are in this state. He’s taking over at a great time, just as he did when he left Inter.
“But these are the challenges Mourinho enjoys the most,” he said, according to AS.
Barcelona present Mourinho’s biggest challenge
Real Madrid’s task is made harder by Barcelona’s current form. Flick’s side have emerged as the early pace-setters, leaving Mourinho with little margin for error as he attempts to close the gap.
The Clasico on October 25, therefore, will inevitably become one of the defining fixtures of the season, but Real Madrid first need to establish greater consistency before they can challenge Barcelona across the campaign.
Mourinho was brought in precisely because of his experience of managing at the highest level, and Villas-Boas believes that experience can now be decisive.
Sneijder also backs Real Madrid boss
Villas-Boas is not the only former Mourinho associate to offer a strong assessment of his ability to change Madrid’s fortunes.
Wesley Sneijder, who worked with Mourinho at Inter and before playing for Real Madrid, has also backed the Portuguese coach to solve the problems at the Bernabéu.
“Mourinho is the only manager capable of turning Real Madrid’s fortunes around,” he had said.
Indeed, Mourinho is one of the finest coaches available to manage the current Real Madrid dressing room, but Barcelona’s current form has put pressure on the Portuguese to deliver instantly.
