Real Madrid News
Real Madrid legend among the candidates to replace Hansi Flick as Germany coach
Earlier today, Germany announced that they would be parting ways with their head coach Hansi Flick after a 4-1 friendly loss to Japan the latest blemish in Flick’s unfathomably poor stint in charge of the national team.
The former Bayern Munich coach, despite achieving unprecedented success with the Bavarians – leading them to a treble – just could not get his players going with Die Mannschaft.
The loss to Japan was their third loss in a row, and the Germans have failed to win any of their last five games.
In lining up replacements for the coveted job, German newspaper BILD has identified former Real Madrid icon and Champions League three-peat-winning coach Zinedine Zidane as one of the options to take over from Flick.
Other big names also being considered
Zidane’s illustrious history at club level and the respect he commands due to his stature as a player could be just the boost that a distraught Germany may need.
The group seems rather unmotivated and there seems to be no tactical system that is adequately suiting their needs despite the talent that they always possess.
Bernd Neuendorf, president of the DFB, noted in the official statement that letting go of Flick was a tough decision but something needs to change.
“The Council agreed that the team needs a new boost after recent disappointing results. We need a spirit of optimism and confidence ahead of the European Championship in our own country.”
Neuendorf also stated that it was one of the most difficult decisions of his term so far, but it was inevitable because sporting success always takes highest priority for Germany.
Jurgen Nagelsmann, Louis Van Gaal, Oliver Glasner and a couple more names are also in contention for the job.
Real Madrid are hoping to have Kylian Mbappe, Ibrahima Konate and Federico Valverde available for the La Liga meeting with Villarreal, with the fitness of all three players being closely monitored, according to Melchor Ruiz.
The trio have each faced different injury concerns during the past few weeks, leaving Madrid waiting for clarity before Saturday’s fixture.
Their availability could be particularly important given the problems already affecting the squad.
Mbappe expected back at Valdebebas
Mbappe was released early from France duty after suffering pain in his left knee during the national team’s first match against Turkiye.
Tests ruled out a serious injury, allowing the forward to take several days of active rest under the supervision of Real Madrid’s medical staff.
After returning to Madrid, Mbappe is expected at Valdebebas to continue his recovery and conditioning work.
Despite the scare, his knee problem is not currently expected to rule him out against Villarreal.
Real Madrid will nevertheless assess his condition before deciding how much work he can handle ahead of the game.
Konate provides relief amid defensive problems
Konate’s situation is also being watched closely, although the initial fears surrounding his knee have eased.
The centre-back suffered a collateral ligament problem in his right knee before appearing for France.
Further assessment ruled out a serious injury, providing significant relief for Madrid at a time when defensive options are already stretched.
Eder Militao remains sidelined, while Raul Asencio is also unavailable, making Konate’s recovery particularly important to Jose Mourinho’s plans.
Valverde facing the biggest recovery race
Valverde’s situation could be the most difficult of the three.
The midfielder suffered an ankle injury during the Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid after a heavy challenge from Kang-in Lee.
He was initially diagnosed with a severe contusion, but subsequent examinations revealed a grade 3 sprain in his left ankle. Real Madrid initially expected him to need around two to three weeks to recover.
That timeline puts his availability for Villarreal under pressure, although the club remains hopeful that he can return in time.
With the three important players dealing with separate fitness issues, Real Madrid will continue assessing their progress before the Villarreal clash.
None of the trio has yet been confirmed as fit, but the club’s hope is to have all three available for selection.
