Real Madrid News
Two key Real Madrid players need to be careful in order to not miss UCL clash vs PSG
The UEFA Champions League returns to action this week after a long hiatus. The biggest clash in the round of 16 fixtures is undoubtedly Real Madrid’s face-off against Paris Saint-Germain.
While both teams have dominated their respective domestic leagues, they will have to fight tooth and nail when they meet next week.
However, Carlo Ancelotti has a problem on his hands. Casemiro and Ferland Mendy are both just a booking away from being suspended. This implies that if either of them is booked in the first leg at Paris, they would be unavailable for the second leg at the Bernabeu.
Casemiro has been part of one of the world’s best midfield combinations alongside Luka Modric and Toni Kross over the past seasons. The trio continues to dominate the game even today, and the Brazilian’s absence would come as a big blow to Ancelotti’s plans.
Given his delicate situation, one could expect Ferland Mendy to start on the bench in Paris. This would not only enable Marcelo to play the first leg but keep Mendy fresh and raring for the second leg.
Real Madrid and PSG are contenders to win the competition but have both strayed off-track in recent weeks. The hiccup from Los Blancos was minor as they tied Elche and lost to Athletic Club in successive games. Against Granada, they struggled to create chances but eventually pulled away with a nervy win.
Meanwhile, PSG were eliminated from their domestic cup by OGC Nico before returning with a bang against OSC Lille. The Parisians scored five on the night as Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe put up a masterclass.
There is no secret that Real Madrid might consider a move for a new striker in the coming summer. With Karim Benzema slowly nearing the end of his career, the club are looking for a viable alternative ahead of the new season.
Carlo Ancelotti has been left impressed by the performances of Rodrygo in the centre forward position. But the club could still use the services of a more recognised option in the number nine position.
The Spanish giants are reportedly assessing La Liga for a potential low-cost option. But they are also open to looking through in other leagues, in their bid to add more depth in the attacking department.
To that end, Fabrizio Romano claims Real Madrid are eyeing a swoop for Roberto Firmino. The Liverpool star has become the latest player to be shortlisted by Los Blancos, with his current contract at Liverpool expiring at the end of the season.
Formerly of TSG Hoffenheim, Firmino has a stellar track record of performing in Europe. He has scored 110 goals in 361 competitive matches during his time at Liverpool, winning the Premier League and the Champions League title.
A centre forward by trade, Roberto is known for his tactical flexibility and the ability to shift into wider areas to build up the player.
It makes him an appealing target for Real Madrid, who would prefer a versatile striker in their ranks that can not only provide cover for Benzema but also the likes of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
Real Madrid, though, are yet to hold any discussions with Roberto Firmino just yet. He has just been added to the list of targets and one would expect the Spanish giants to make a move once the season is over and the player becomes a free agent.
