Real Madrid News
Timo Werner hails Real Madrid, Santiago Bernabeu atmosphere ahead of UCL clash
Real Madrid are set to lock horns with RB Leipzig later tonight on the second matchday of the UEFA Champions League.
The European champions had secured a 3-0 win in their opening fixture against Celtic in the UCL and are looking to maintain their momentum, as they host the German giants at the Santiago Bernabeu.
One of Leipzig’s main protagonists heading into this contest is Timo Werner, who is hoping to prove himself after his disastrous spell at Chelsea.
Speaking ahead of the clash (h/t La Razon), Werner heaped praise on Real Madrid’s quality as a team and picked them as one of the favourites to win the competition. He also spoke about Santiago Bernabeu, deeming it one of the most impressive stadiums in Europe.
“The Santiago Bernabeu is one of the most impressive stadiums in Europe. There is a special atmosphere there. That atmosphere pushes you as a player, no matter if you play for Real Madrid or against,” said Werner, who has scored four times since returning to Leipzig earlier this summer.
When asked about the most dangerous player at Real Madrid, Werner added: “Which Madrid player isn’t dangerous? There are many players who can make the difference in a match.”
The German international went on to speak about the quality of the Real Madrid squad, labelling them as the favourites to lift the Champions League once again come the end of the season.
“There are a few teams who are the favourites for the Champions League and Real Madrid are one of them. Their success in recent years has been impressive,” he added.
Werner, though, is more than prepared to make life difficult for the Real Madrid defenders as he looks to spearhead the Leipzig attack this evening, alongside the likes of Dominik Szoboszlai, Andre Silva and Christopher Nkunku.
Real Madrid have finally received some good news as MARCA confirms that Nacho has finally made his decision about his future, and is set to continue at the club for the foreseeable future.
His contract expires in the summer, and Real Madrid had tabled an extension for the player, which was not accepted by the Spaniard at the time. Now, however, he has decided to reject offers from Juventus, Inter Milan, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and AC Milan.
Nacho will sign a one year extension, with the option to extend for another year if both parties reach an agreement.
His continuity also means that he will be the new club captain for the 2023/24 season, since Karim Benzema is leaving the club on a free transfer in the summer. Luka Modric will be second captain, followed by Daniel Carvajal and Toni Kroos.
Carlo Ancelotti has also spoken to the player, confirming that they trust him for next season in the team, which has gone a long way in helping convince the player.
The Italian gaffer also spoke about the Spanish defender’s contract situation after the game against Athletic Club yesterday, saying:
“Asensio, Nacho and Ceballos? We have explained them their roles. The club have offered them renewals. Asensio has preferred to leave, Ceballos and Nacho are still thinking about it.”
While a centre-back by trade, Nacho has played across the defence for Madrid continuously, including putting shifts at left-back, right-back, and even centre-back.
His departure would have probably pushed Madrid to sign another defender, especially since they are considering selling Ferland Mendy if a good offer arrives.
Regardless of that, though, Madrid are moving to sign Alphonso Davies, and have already made initial contacts with the player. Bayern Munich have not rejected their advances.
Further, the los blancos management have already met with Davies’ entourage twice, cementing their interest in the Canadian ace.
