Real Madrid News
Real Madrid icon reflects on his journey at club – ‘They are the moments you work towards your whole life’
Real Madrid’s game against Juventus at the Santiago Bernabeu earlier this week was a special one for Lucas Vazquez as the fans in the stands unveiled a special tifo in his honour on the night.
The photo was a touching one – one of him at the stadium supporting the team as a child – far before he made his debut for the team and went on to become a club legend.
Vazquez left the club last summer at the end of his contract and is currently playing for Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga. Real Madrid, however, continues to have a special place in his heart.
Vazquez’s interview
Speaking to the media earlier this week, the former Real Madrid star spoke out about the tribute poured in by fans and of the tifo of him which was unveiled on the night.
“It was so emotional because that photo is from the first game I ever saw at the Bernabeu. I remember everything about that day perfectly. I remember how I felt sitting in the stands.”
“To see that tifo in the Bernabéu yesterday, at a Champions League game, was unbelievable. It fills me with pride, it’s difficult to put into words how it feels to see that,” he added.
Recalling the 2024 El Clasico when he had a part to play in all three of Real Madrid’s goals fondly, the player spoke on how it was one of his best performances.
“It was one of my best games from an individual standpoint. To be involved in all three goals made it truly special. I remember it was a hugely important game in the fight for LaLiga.”
“It was a great game, and a brilliant watch for the fans. The team played some great football and the emotion with Bellingham’s goal at the end was incredible,” he added.
Having now closed his chapter at the club, Vazquez was asked if the realisation of his career in white and all his accomplishments had finally set in.
“Not even in my wildest dreams could I have imagined all this. The photo of that young kid represents the hopes and magic of the Bernabéu. Having achieved all I have in such a wonderful period for Real Madrid, one that saw us enjoy so many wins, trophies… It’s amazing.”
“A few months have passed since I left now, but I don’t think my Real Madrid career has sunk in yet. These displays of affection fill me with pride – both at my farewell, and the tifo yesterday,” he added.
He then called his time at Real Madrid ‘beautiful’ and expressed his gratitude for the same.
“I don’t think I can quite believe how beautiful it’s all been, and how grateful I am to the fans, to the club, to you guys, and everyone for all those wonderful moments.”
The player was then asked about the best UEFA Champions League campaign with Real Madrid that he held close to his heart, to which he said.
“The first in Milan was special, the whole lot. It was my first season with the first team, and because of how the final transpired, to be able to help the team by converting the penalty, and everything that comes with winning the Champions League – My hair stands on end whenever I think about it.”
He then opened up on his happiest memory at the club and named one from the time he was a teenager.
“That’s a tough one, I’ve got so many beautiful memories. I think I’d have to go with the first day I set foot in Valdebebas at 16 years old, training with the Under-17s. That’s just an unbelievable memory.”
“Then perhaps when I got back into the first team, playing my first Real Madrid game at the Bernabéu. They are the moments you work towards your whole life,” he added.
Finally, Vazquez spoke on how life in Germany has been for him so far with Bayer Leverkusen making a reasonable start to the Bundesliga.
“I feel great. It’s been a big change in so many ways. Adapting to a new league and a new country, but I’ve been welcomed so warmly, by the club, my teammates, the people.”
“It’s been fantastic, they’ve made it so easy for me,” he added.
Source: Real Madrid website
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.
