Real Madrid News
Real Madrid veteran rejects Ronaldo reunion, MLS approach to stay at the Bernabeu
A recent report from MARCA has offered a comprehensive update on Luka Modric. With his contract at Real Madrid expiring at the end of the season, there are speculations floating around over the future of the Croatian international, who recently guided his nation to a third-placed finish in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The report suggests Modric has received two lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and MLS respectively. The offer from Saudi, in particular, has come from Al Nassr, who have recently made headlines by signing none other than Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Saudi Arabian giants now want to take things one step further by adding more star players to their armoury. It appears Al Nassr are determined to become the Real Madrid of Arab football, as evidenced by their recent capture of Ronaldo.
Al Nassr have identified two top targets in the market currently. One is Sergio Ramos, who could join the club at the end of the season, while the other is Modric. They have approached the veteran midfielder, but the player has rejected any advances.
The former Tottenham starlet has received offers from MLS too, especially ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. But his response has been clear: “We will talk in 2024”.
Modric’s response serves as a clear indication of his desire to continue at Real Madrid, at least for another season. Even at the age of 37, the Croatian has continued to thrive in his role and remains a star player for the team.
Real Madrid, too, consider Modric as a vital part of the squad, even amid speculation over the potential capture of Jude Bellingham in the summer of 2023.
The Whites may not have tabled an official proposal just yet, but Modric is prepared to sign a contract extension. Reaching an agreement should not be a problem for either of the two parties, as we enter the January transfer window.
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.
John Smellie
January 2, 2023 at 5:54 pm
Modric will always be a real Madrid player we don’t need cristiano at this club