RB Leipzig head coach Martin Demichelis remains convinced that former River Plate prodigy Franco Mastantuono possesses all the attributes required to succeed at Real Madrid. Although the teenage playmaker is spending the campaign out on loan at Fiorentina, his old mentor insists patience is key to his development in Europe.
Scott McTominay is yet to sign a new contract at Napoli, which has led to inevitable transfer talk being generated. Pat Nevin has told GOAL what could happen next when it comes to the Scotland international, with a Jose Mourinho reunion at Real Madrid being mooted for the ex-Manchester United star alongside a potential return to the Premier League.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has expressed his admiration for the tactical evolution at Paris Saint-Germain, suggesting the French champions have adopted the Catalan giants' signature playing style. Ahead of a high-stakes Champions League encounter, Laporta highlighted the influence of former Blaugrana manager Luis Enrique in transforming the Parisian side.
Aston Villa midfielder Johan Manzambi has firmly decided against a transfer away from the club despite attracting heavy interest from European giants Liverpool, Barcelona and Bayern Munich. The highly-rated 21-year-old is enjoying a phenomenal debut season in the Premier League but feels remaining under Unai Emery is the best step for his ongoing development.
The two Spanish giants are coming off turbulent LaLiga matches: both leaders Barcelona (5-2 against Betis) and arch-rivals Real Madrid (4-1 against Sevilla FC) won convincingly at the weekend. Afterwards, however, the coverage of each match focused on alleged preferential treatment.
Sevilla manager Luis Garcia Plaza has launched a scathing attack on the officiating following his side's 4-1 loss to Real Madrid, claiming the referee "robbed" his team of a fair chance. The angry coach insisted that Arda Guler should have been sent off for an off-the-ball incident early in the first half, and believes a conspiracy may be at play to ensure Los Blancos remain in peak condition for the upcoming El Clasico showdown
