If you thought the days of the Ballon d'Or generating headlines were over after Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's era of dominance came to an end, then think again. After one of the most closely-fought races for a number of years, Rodri came out on top in 2024, beating Vinicius Jr into second place as Real Madrid dramatically boycotted the ceremony in Paris in protest at their star player missing out.

Real Madrid made light work of Espanyol as they claimed a 2-0 win to maintain their perfect start to the Liga season. Eder Militao and in-form Kylian Mbappe delivered the goals for the hosts, and the result, if only temporarily, moves Xabi Alonso's men five points clear of title rivals Barcelona at the top of the table.

Real Madrid paid tribute to Abderrahim Ouhida, a survivor of the 2023 Morocco earthquake, by inviting him to take a special honorary kick-off at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday. Ouhida, who wore a Real Madrid shirt during the quake and lost five family members in the tragic incident, stepped onto the pitch in Kylian Mbappe’s No.10 jersey ahead of the Liga clash against Espanyol.

Vinicius Junior could consider quitting Real Madrid if his demands over wages are not met. The Brazilian, who has two years left in his existing deal, has been a long-term target for Saudi Pro League clubs, although the winger has always maintained that he sees his long-term future at Santiago Bernabeu. Vinicius has started the new season strongly as he has three goal contributions in five matches.

Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi expects Mason Greenwood to become a "complete" footballer like the "greatest players in Europe". The Italian has pushed the forward hard since arriving at the French side last summer and it is clear he has high hopes for him. The head coach also wants him to learn from the likes of elite players such as Kylian Mbappe and Raphinha.