Real Madrid News
Real Madrid make a U-turn on their stance on transfer plans for January
Real Madrid’s crisis went from bad to worse when the reigning European champions fell to a 3-1 defeat at the hands of AC Milan in the UEFA Champions League this midweek.
Back-to-back defeats to Barcelona and Milan have put immense pressure on head coach Carlo Ancelotti, who must find a way to turn things around soon.
At the same time, Real Madrid’s poor form has also put pressure on the board, who, for the most part, have shown no desire to reinforce the team in the upcoming January transfer window.
Real Madrid make U-turn over transfer market
However, according to a recent report from COPE, Real Madrid officials appear to have changed their mind about not signing any player in January.
Although Los Blancos were steadfast in their desire to not bring in a single fresh face in January, the club are now considering reinforcements in order to beef up their ranks and give Ancelotti some security amid the ongoing injury crisis.
Indeed, Real Madrid have desperately lacked the services of a veteran defensive leader like Dani Carvajal, with his main alternative Lucas Vazquez struggling to fill his shoes.
In an attempt to find a long-term replacement for Carvajal, Real Madrid were vying for the services of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is expected to become a free agent in the summer of 2025.
However, with Real Madrid likely to be active in the January transfer window, it will be interesting to see whether or not the Spanish giants weigh up a move for the Englishman in a few months.
In case the reigning European champions do not go after the big players and operate on a tight budget, we can expect the club to keep an eye on older players, who can sign a short-term contract or even join on a loan deal.
These are still early days and it will be interesting to see how things transpire in the coming months.
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.
