Real Madrid News
Real Madrid youngster doubtful to start vs Bayern Munich as Arbeloa considers Brazilian option
For the major part of 2026, Antonio Rudiger and Dean Huijsen have defined the Real Madrid defence.
While Rudiger has established himself as a guaranteed starter, Huijsen, too, has improved his game significantly after facing criticism for his inconsistency during the first half of the season.
And for the longest time, it was thought that the two central defenders are destined to start in Real Madrid’s upcoming game against Bayern Munich, perhaps the biggest one of the season.
Arbeloa considering Militao start
However, all of that changed in the recent defeat to Mallorca. In a game that saw Real Madrid struggle to impose dominance, Eder Militao’s return was one of the few positives.
The Brazilian immediately returned to top form, showing the kind of authority and command that he is known for. He even capped off his performance with a goal, which should have been the catalyst for a Real Madrid comeback.
Nevertheless, MARCA suggests Alvaro Arbeloa was mightily impressed by Militao’s performance and keeping that in mind, a start cannot be completely ruled out for the Brazilian in the upcoming game against Bayern Munich.
This may have a domino effect in the pecking order of things. With Rudiger a guaranteed starter, Huijsen, who was expected to start, may have to contend for a place on the bench if Arbeloa indeed looks to fast-track the return of Militao.
It is apparent that Real Madrid are lacking the experience, leadership and composure that Militao so often provides. And against an opponent like Bayern, these qualities could prove to be paramount.
Arbeloa, though, has bigger problems to worry about. His main concern will be around Kylian Mbappe, who was toothless in attack, and his lack of defensive work rate might be negatively impacting the team.
Real Madrid News
Arsenal in contact with Real Madrid forward’s camp over potential transfer – report
Doubts about Rodrygo Goes’ long-term future at Real Madrid having been growing for some time.
The Brazilian’s situation had become uncomfortable over the past couple of seasons as he experienced a sudden decline in form. And, just when it seemed like he was about to turn things around, an ACL injury ruled him out in March earlier this year.
With Rodrygo now facing an extended spell on the sidelines, his recovery will be crucial. He is expected to return in December or January, and the club will monitor how he responds physically before determining what role he will play under Jose Mourinho.
Arsenal keeping tabs on Rodrygo
Now, according to TEAMtalk (h/t Bernabeu Digital), Arsenal are in contact with Rodrygo’s representatives over a potential future move.
The report states that the Gunners had already attempted to sign the Brazilian before his injury, and their interest has now resurfaced ahead of a possible move in the summer of 2027.
The Premier League champions had also explored the possibility of signing Vinicius Jr. from Real Madrid this past summer, before he signed a new long-term contract at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Now, their attention seems to have switched Vinicius’ fellow Brazilian forward who is closing in on his return from the ACL rupture.
Real Madrid want to keep Rodrygo until the summer
As already reported, Rodrygo will not leave Real Madrid in January. The intention is for the winger to regain full fitness and become available to Mourinho for the second half of the season.
Real Madrid are not considering selling the former Santos wonderkid during the January transfer window.
Instead, the club intend to reassess his situation next summer, once he has had the opportunity to recover and demonstrate his form on the pitch.
The plan is to have the Brazilian fit and available for the second half of the campaign before making a final decision at the end of the season.
Rodrygo’s performances after returning from injury, together with Mourinho’s assessment of his role in the squad, will help determine what happens next.
Depending on those factors, Real Madrid could consider allowing him to leave or decide that he still has an important future at the Santiago Bernabeu.
For now, Arsenal’s interest remains a possibility to watch, but Real Madrid are focused on Rodrygo’s recovery rather than negotiating a January departure.
