Real Madrid News
Vinicius Jr proud of his efforts against racism, feels ‘stronger than ever’ – report
As Carlo Ancelotti began taking questions after Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Rayo Vallecano late on Wednesday night, it appeared as though Vinicius Jr was the only topic raised by the journalists. There was not much talk about the win or the goalscorers on the night as question after question poured in about the Brazilian’s situation.
The Italian manager patiently provided an update on his ward and confirmed that Vinicius continued to be motivated, despite the racial abuse he suffered earlier in the week.
“His morale is just fine. All the support he has received in the last few days has been good for him. I don’t think there will be any more cases of racism because we’ve all become aware of it and things are going to improve very quickly.”
AS echo the manager’s information about Vinicius. The Spanish outlet maintains that Vinicius is feeling stronger than ever before. Sources close to the player report that he feels proud of his actions on the field and on social media. After all, it has brought the topic of racism in football, particularly in Spain, to the fore and is finally spreading awareness.
While the Brazilian has been subject to similar slur several times this season already, the scenes at Valencia saw Spanish football hit a new low. Multiple eminent personalities came out openly in favour of the young winger and stood by his side in the war against discrimination.
His open war against Javier Tebas on social media only fuelled the fire. The player’s reaction triggered an awakening in the authorities responsible, and both Valencia and specific offenders were handed sanctions.
Valencia announced a lifetime ban for all supporters caught pioneering the racial abuse on the night. However, the Mestalla-based club could not escape punishment themselves as the Competition Committee demanded them to partially close the stadium for five games in addition to an economic fine.
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.
