Real Madrid News
Valencia fans sing songs against Real Madrid outside Mestalla after Vinicius scandal
The Real Madrid Vs Valencia game earlier this month caused quite a controversy, with Vinicius Junior being the centre of attention.
The Brazilian international was a victim of racial abuse by a certain group of Valencia fans. The incident caused a massive uproar within the footballing world, with many prominent figures in the world of sports backing Vinicius.
Real Madrid themselves have come out strongly, condemning racism and the acts carried out by Valencia fans against Vinicius.
But it seems the whole series of events has only antagonised Valencia fans, who have now gathered outside the Mestalla ahead of the home game against Espanyol. The supporters are signing songs against Real Madrid, reports El Chiringuito.
It is unlikely the fans are going against Vinicius after he was the subject of racist abuse. But it appears they are antagonised by Real Madrid’s allegations that a large of the supporters had hurled racial slurs against the attacker.
Valencia themselves have come out strongly against the allegations, which has strained the relationship between the two clubs, to an extent.
Both clubs, though, should not put too much attention to this recent precession by the Valencia supporters and will look to focus on the games at hand. The upcoming match against Espanyol is a crucial one for Los Che, who are still involved in the relegation fight.
A win should help them move away from the relegation scrap, though. As for Real Madrid, they secured a 2-1 win over Sevilla last night, with Rodrygo impressing onlookers with a brace.
The Spanish giants are currently second in the league table, but there is a possibility they could be overtaken by Atletico Madrid if they lose their final match of the season.
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.
