Chertanovo Moscow Overview

Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has issued a frank self-assessment of his recent performances as the Brazilian finds his place in the starting XI under unexpected scrutiny. Despite his long-standing status as a talisman at the Santiago Bernabeu, a dip in productivity has coincided with the blistering form of his teammates.

Michael Owen has told GOAL that “stars need to align” in order for Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice to achieve what Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard could not. Two iconic midfielders from England’s not too distant past never savoured Ballon d’Or glory. Could a couple of Three Lions superstars in the present eventually go on to land the prestigious Golden Ball?

Real Madrid head into the Madrid derby looking to extend their brilliant form under the spotlight. Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone has warned his side about their opponents' "incredible attacking strength" ahead of Sunday's crunch clash at the Metropolitano.

Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe has addressed the growing backlash regarding his decision to obscure a support T-shirt for the city of Ceuta. The French forward, alongside team-mates Vinicius Junior and Ibrahima Konate, faced significant criticism after partially covering the message during the pre-match ceremonies of Madrid's 3-2 victory over Elche.