Real Madrid News
Real Madrid rejected by 13-goal forward in favour of Serie A stay – report
According to Gazzetta dello Sport (h/t Mundo Deportivo), Real Madrid have faced the rejection of Rafael Leao, who has no intention of moving to Santiago Bernabeu at the end of the season.
Formerly of Sporting CP, Leao has been the darling of the European market this season, following his blistering performances for AC Milan. The forward has racked up 13 goals and 12 assists in all competitions this season.
One goal and five assists came in the UEFA Champions League, with Leao playing a crucial role in helping the Rossoneri reach the semifinal of the prestigious competition for the first time in 16 years.
The Portuguese international’s performances have led to links with Real Madrid, who are reportedly interested in the attacker’s services, as part of their plan to reinforce their options in the final third.
However, as per the report, Leao is happy with his life at San Siro and has rejected a move to Santiago Bernabeu. Real Madrid are not the only club to be rejected by the Portuguese international, as the player has also said no to Chelsea.
The report points out that one of the reasons behind Leao’s rejection was the role offered at the club. He was not on board with the idea of playing second fiddle to Karim Benzema, and wants a prominent role in the team, with AC Milan appearing as the most logical platform.
Shortly after securing a berth in the semifinal, Leao had professed his love for AC Milan. In line with his commitment, the forward has rebuffed major clubs in Europe and looks set to prolong his stay at San Siro.
Leao’s current deal in Milan expires in 2024. The two parties had difficulties reaching an agreement for a renewal, but following the player’s commitment, one would expect the new deal to be just around the corner.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
