Real Madrid News
Xabi Alonso targets Real Madrid duo if Chelsea lose wantaway superstar – report
Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso is to keep Enzo Fernández at Stamford Bridge, but if the Argentine midfielder leaves, the Spaniard already has two Real Madrid players in mind as potential replacements, reports SPORT.
Having recently taken charge of Chelsea’s long-term project, Alonso is said to be planning for multiple scenarios as he reshapes the squad.
Keen to retain Enzo
According to the report, Alonso was disappointed that Marc Cucurella completed his move to Real Madrid before he could influence the decision.
Since arriving in London, he has focused on trying to prevent another major exit by convincing Chelsea to retain Enzo Fernandez, who had been linked with Real Madrid.
Los Blancos, however, have come out and ruled out a move for the Argentine international by issuing an official statement, after the player’s agent kept hinting at a move.
Tchouameni and Guler seen as alternatives
Should Enzo ultimately move to another club, Alonso has asked Chelsea to pursue two players he knows well from his time at the Santiago Bernabeu: Aurelien Tchouameni and Arda Guler.
Both were key figures during Alonso’s brief spell in charge. Tchouameni became one of the coach’s most trusted players, acting as the team’s midfield leader, while Güler flourished under Alonso’s guidance.
The report claims both Tchouameni and Güler are uncertain about their roles following Jose Mourinho’s arrival.
Although the Portuguese manager has already spoken with both players, Tchouameni has been mentioned internally as one of the squad members who could be sold if a significant offer arrives.
His estimated market value stands at approximately €70 million, although Real Madrid are believed to want at least €82 million before considering a sale.
Guler’s case appears more complicated. The Turkish playmaker is understood to be happy at Real Madrid and currently sees little reason to seek a move elsewhere.
His long-term future could depend on the role Mourinho gives him during the coming season, but for now, the youngster remains focused on earning his place at the Bernabeu.
For now, however, there is no indication that Real Madrid are actively trying to sell Tchouameni or Guler. But should an attractive offer come along, it will be interesting to see how they respond.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
