Real Madrid News
Vinicius Jr remains a doubt for Real Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano despite suspension reversal
Real Madrid were handed a major boost as the RFEF decided to rescind Vinicius Jr’s red card, which he picked up against Valencia.
The forward, who was a victim of racial abuse by Valencia supporters, is now eligible to play against Rayo Vallecano tonight. The reversal of the suspension came as a shock to many, including Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez.
Nevertheless, it is unlikely Vinicius Junior will play against Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabeu later tonight.
Mario Cortegana of The Athletic suggests his involvement will depend on how the player is feeling heading into the game as he is dealing with a minor knee injury. He will undergo tests on today morning to determine if he will feature.
As things stand, the feeling is that it is ‘very difficult’ that he will against Rayo, especially after what he has gone through these past few days.
The Brazilian, who has been involved in over 40 goals in all competitions this season, has received unwavering support from athletes across the sporting world.
Real Madrid themselves are preparing a massive show of support for Vinicius against Rayo Vallecano. Even if the forward does not play tonight, he will be present in the stadium and will witness a large banner from Real Madrid condemning racism.
Although Vinicius is dejected following the events that unfolded at the weekend, he is expected to attend the game. But it is not fully confirmed he won’t take part in the game tonight, and much will depend on the outcome of the tests he undergoes.
Vinicius could take part in Real Madrid’s remaining matches in La Liga, though, including the game against Sevilla on Saturday. If he does not play tonight, the Brazilian will look to end the campaign on a positive note by scoring in the last couple of matches against Sevilla and Athletic Club respectively.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid eye €3.5 million-rated relegated Premier League striker to reinforce attack
Following a difficult season with troubles in La Liga and the Champions League preventing Real Madrid from retaining their crowns, Los Blancos move towards a transformative summer, full of innovations.
Real Madrid managed to clear plenty of unwanted figures at the club, with a huge relief on the wage bill. However, with an array of exits, the squad has contracted and thus replacements are being inquired.
Apart from the high-profile departure of Karim Benzema, fringe players have also bid their farewell.
Among those names is Mariano Diaz, who was Madrid’s backup striker prior to his withdrawal. Several names have been put on the table to fill his absence as the club largely aim to address their lack of depth.
According to Arancha Rodriguez (via RM4Arab), Leeds United striker Rodrigo Moreno is one of the names gaining consensus in the Madrid hierarchy. Moreover, Joselu has also been considered as a viable alternative.
The two favourites to replace Mariano have proven to be important figures for their clubs as both strikers maintain a starting role.
Playing for Espanyol, Joselu ended the La Liga campaign as the third top scorer, only behind Benzema and Lewandowski. Considering Espanyol’s relegation, such a feat looks even more impressive. The Spaniard secured 19 goals in all competitions.
On the other hand, Rodrigo Moreno recorded 16 goals last season across all competitions. Similar to Joselu’s case, the Spanish international also suffered relegation with Leeds, in spite of his good numbers.
With both players offering adequate output in struggling sides, Real Madrid’s interest is practical. Moreover, considering both Espanyol and Leeds were relegated, their asking price will undeniably lower, which enables the Merengues to sign one of the two targets at a more convenient rate.
It is claimed that Rodrigo has a release clause worth €3.5 million which Los Blancos would have to trigger to sign him from Leeds United.
It now remains to be seen whether Carlo Ancelotti & co. go after the former Valencia man or move for Joselu instead.
