Real Madrid Roundup
Injury Report
Luka Modric returned to training with teammates yesterday as did Gareth Bale, although Bale trained on his own. Both players fell to injury over the international break while on duty with Croatia and Wales, causing them to miss out on this week’s vital Champions League showdown with Galatasaray. With both players back Zidane has virtually the whole squad at his disposal for upcoming matches against Leganes, Betis and the Champions League return match against Galatasaray.
Valverde Convinces Zidane
The 21-year-old Uruguayan, Fede Valverde, continues to impress. On Tuesday’s match the young midfielder regained possession for Madrid 7 times and converted 35 of 44 pass attempts. Valverde covers a lot of pitch and helps the team make the transition from defending to attacking. Expect more minutes for this youngster as the season goes on.
Clásico Update
The date for the upcoming clásico has been set for December 18th, a decision made by the Spanish Football Federation. Nevertheless, LaLiga chief, Javier Tebas, is not happy with the decision and intends to fight it in Spain’s Sports Council. The date set clashes with the Copa del Rey and the Club World Cup. The match has yet to be officially scheduled. You can place your bets for the upcoming Clásico at Betolimp.
Goalkeeper Interest
Thibaut Courtois has been under serious pressure since his move to Madrid in 2018. An in-form Keylor Navas was shipped off to PSG to make room for the Belgian Goalkeeper, who has largly underformed since his arrival. Real Madrid have had their eye on Unai Simón as a possible replacement. The Atlético Bilboa goalkeeper could be brought to the Bernabeu for just 50 million euros, the price of the buyout clause.
Courtois did have an improved performance against Galatasaray. Try betting in South Africa on the Champion’s League return match.
Brahim Díaz Surplus to Requrements
Brahim Díaz has been given his marching orders, according to reports. He was signed just one year ago from Manchester City and has now been informed that he can leave the club.
Lewandowski in January
With summer signings Eden Hazard and Luka Jovic not yet delivering the goals expected from them, Real Madrid is rumored to be considering a move for the Robert Lewandowski. Although the Bayern Munich striker is over 30 he is still in fine form with 18 goals from 13 matches this season. Lewandowski has been a long term target for Real Madrid but many had considered it too late to invest in the striker.
Modric Absense from Ballon d’Or
After winning his third straight European Cup Luka Modric became the first person not named Cristiano or Messi to win a Ballon D’or in 10 years. One year later, after a terrible season for Real Madrid, the Croatian striker didn’t even make the shortlist for this year’s prize.