Real Madrid News
Real Madrid in talks with Real Sociedad over the sale of out-of-favour defender
Alvaro Odriozola was one of Real Sociedad’s most vital members before his move to Real Madrid in 2018. He made 35 appearances for the Basque side in the 2017-18 season of La Liga, providing four assists and creating five big chances in the process.
Following his €30 million move to Madrid, however, his career took a steep turn. He made 14 La Liga appearances for the club in 2018-19 but has seen his prominence fall with every passing season.
In the recently concluded campaign, Odriozola had barely any part to play under Carlo Ancelotti. With just 42 minutes under his belt in the league, he was one of the team’s least-used players and it is clear that he is not in the manager’s plan.
According to reports from AS, Real Madrid and Real Sociedad are in talks over Odriozola’s transfer. The move would see the defender return to San Sebastian in what would be a win-win situation for all parties involved.
The Italian tactician counts on Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vazquez to continue carrying the torch at right-back for the coming campaign. Though Odriozola is younger than the existing options, he is not even considered an option by Ancelotti.
The 27-year-old’s contract with Real Madrid runs until next summer, after which he will be permitted to leave on a free transfer.
If a departure can be agreed upon in the coming days, however, the incoming funds will prove useful for Kylian Mbappe’s anticipated €200 million move.
Odriozola has agreed to leave with several offers coming his way. Moreover, a return home would appear the best option for the Spaniard given his lack of prominence at Real Madrid.
With all parties standing to gain from his move, rapid progress in discussions is expected in the coming week.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
