Real Madrid News
Real Madrid internally admire Argentine manager’s experience
When Real Madrid comes calling on the market, options begin to arise, and the same phenomenon is beginning once more in their pursuit of a manager.
As word spreads that Los Blancos are looking for a new head coach, several top managers in various posts across the world are beginning to find their names linked, and it will not come as a surprise if they opt to leave their current posts and push for the switch if the chance arises.
One such candidate is Mauricio Pochettino, who is currently the manager of the USMNT. Despite having joined only in September 2024, he is seen as a top target.
Internal support
As reported by Fabrizio Romano (h/t Madrid Xtra) in a recent update, someone inside Real Madrid’s administration really admires Pochettino and his managerial ideas.
They value the experience he brings to the table, and his manner of working with the players are both of which are serious positives from their perspective.
At this point, however, no decision has been made yet as to whether Real Madrid should go for him or not. That call will likely be taken only at the end of the season once the club know all their options.
As the club value an experienced name at this point in their rebuild, Pochettino would be an understandable option.
His man-management, after all, is impressive and also happens to be what is crucial at the club.
Moreover, the Argentine coach’s CV is quite impressive as he has worked with Tottenham Hotspur, PSG and Chelsea in the past.
In those three stints, he averaged 1.84, 2.15 and 1.78 points per game, respectively.
As matters stand, Los Blancos have a solid list of candidates they deem fit, even beyond the Argentine coach, including Didier Deschamps, Lionel Scaloni and Jose Mourinho.
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.
