Real Madrid News
Rodrygo, Asensio, Hazard, Camavinga speak following Real Madrid 2-1 Osasuna | CdR final
Real Madrid secured their first Copa Del Rey title since 2014 when they beat CA Osasuna 2-1 on Saturday evening.
Rodrygo struck twice to guarantee a victory for Los Blancos, who will be heading into midweek’s Champions League semifinal full of confidence.
Speaking after the game, Rodrygo was elated but denied to label this as the best performance of his career. “Best game of my career? No, the most special was the semi-final against City. Nothing compares,” he said.
The Brazilian forward went on to praise Luka Modric, who once again put in a great effort on the night despite only recovering from injury.
“We want Modrić to stay with us. He’s Real Madrid’s #10. If he ever decides to leave, then it would be an honour to wear #10 at this club, I would consider it,” Rodrygo said.
Modric himself expressed his love for Real Madrid after the game and confirmed his availability for the upcoming UCL game against Manchester City. “This club is my whole life. Hala Madrid!” he said. “I’ll play without problems on Tuesday, don’t worry.”
Another Real Madrid midfielder, Toni Kroos, talked about the game, stating, “Finals are meant to be won.” The German also praised Brazilian international Vinicius Junior for his performance, adding, “If you have a player like that with that quality, make the most of him. He’s unstoppable at full focus.”
Eduardo Camavinga, too, chimed in. When asked about his role as a left-back on the night, the young midfielder admitted it is not his favourite position, but expressed his desire to help the team in any way possible. “Left back? Well, I can’t say I like it. But I love helping my team-mates and this club,” he said.
Finally, it was Eden Hazard who spoke after the game. His comments were not exactly as joyous as many of his teammates, as the Belgian doubled down on his desire to play more matches. But more importantly, the attacker confirmed his desire to stay at Santiago Bernabeu beyond the summer.
“I’m planning to stay,” he said. “Of course, I think I can play more minutes. I want to enjoy the year left of my contract.”
Source: RealMadrid.tv
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.
