A number of players will be happy to see the back of the former Bayer Leverkusen coach after an unsuccessful spell at the Santiago Bernabeu

Real Madrid booked their place in the Supercopa de Espana final with a 2-1 victory over inter-city rivals Atletico Madrid in Jeddah on Thursday. Los Blancos opened their account through a vicious Federico Valverde free-kick after just 77 seconds, and Rodrygo doubled the lead with a well-taken finish in the 55th minute, before Alexander Sorloth pegged one back with a back-post header just moments later.

Manchester United are reportedly monitoring midfielder Federico Valverde's situation at Real Madrid, with recent news suggesting he may be open to a move amid a reported "bust-up" with manager Xabi Alonso. United's new hierarchy, under manager Ruben Amorim, sees the Uruguayan's versatility and quality as a key component for their midfield overhaul.

Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has stated that Federico Valverde is ready to play against Villarreal and denied that he objected from playing in a defensive role in their latest Champions League fixture. Valverde even penned an emotional statement as a response to such reports that called his commitment into question.

Real Madrid’s 5-0 Champions League win at Kairat Almaty has been overshadowed by Federico Valverde’s emotional statement addressing reports that he had refused to play. The Uruguayan vice-captain strongly denied suggestions of a rift with Xabi Alonso, insisting he has always given “everything and more” for the club, even while playing through injuries.