Alvaro Arbeloa has admitted to being "intentionally unfair" after leaving superstars Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham on the bench for Real Madrid's thrilling 3-2 derby victory over Atletico Madrid. Despite declaring both players fully fit before the clash, the head coach opted for a cautious approach following their recent injury lay-offs. The decision sparked debate at the Bernabeu as Los Blancos continue their pursuit of La Liga leaders Barcelona.
Real Madrid have again criticised the state of refereeing in La Liga after star midfielder Federico Valverde was sent off during Sunday night's 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid. The Uruguayan was handed a straight red card for a cynical trip on Alex Baena and will now serve a two-game domestic suspension, ruling him out of the upcoming clashes with Mallorca and Girona after the international break.
Nahuel Molina has once again proven why he is one of the most dangerous attacking full-backs in world football after producing a moment of magic in the Madrid derby. The Atletico Madrid star silenced the Santiago Bernabeu with a spectacular long-range strike that left the hosts reeling. Molina's goal comes just a week after he scored another stunner against Getafe.
Vinicius Jr scored twice while Federico Valverde again found the net as Real Madrid saw off Atletico Madrid, 3-2, in a frantic derby on Sunday. At no point was either side truly in control of proceedings, yet Real were clinical at the right moments, and despite finishing the game with 10 men following a red card for Valverde, were good value for a win that keeps them firmly in La Liga's title race.
Trent Alexander-Arnold lost his place in the starting XI for Real Madrid’s high-stakes derby against Atletico Madrid on Sunday night in La Liga. Despite being a regular fixture in the side, the England international was a surprise name on the substitutes' bench as the lineups were announced at the Santiago Bernabeu after being sanctioned by manager Alvaro Arbeloa.
Barcelona players surprised fans at the Spotify Camp Nou by warming up in retro jerseys to celebrate the 46th birthday of club legend Ronaldinho. The Brazilian icon, who won the Ballon d'Or and Champions League during a transformative spell in Catalonia, remains a beloved figure. The tribute bridged the gap between the club's glorious past and its promising current era.
Barcelona maintained their stranglehold on La Liga's title race on Sunday, though they were made to work hard for their 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano. Ronald Araujo scored the only goal of the game for the Catalans, but disappointing performances from their all-star attack meant they were indebted to yet more stunning saves from goalkeeper Joan Garcia.
Bernardo Silva is clinging to the dream of joining Barcelona as a free agent this summer, but serious doubts are being cast over whether a deal will be done. The Portugal international playmaker is preparing to sever ties with Manchester City when his contract expires. He has offers from the Saudi Pro League, Italy and his homeland, but is holding out for an approach from Catalonia.
Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham found themselves in an uncomfortable spotlight this weekend after receiving a hostile reception during a public appearance in the Spanish capital. Despite being on home turf, the Brazil and England internationals were met with a chorus of whistles and jeers that left them looking visibly frustrated.
Former Real Madrid defender Manu Hernando has explained how kicking Cristiano Ronaldo in training led to him temporarily being banished from Los Blancos’ first-team fold. As a product of the fabled Castilla academy system, Hernando was given plenty of opportunities in which to work with senior stars. On one occasion, he delivered a “cruel” blow to Portuguese GOAT Ronaldo.
Alvaro Arbeloa has confirmed that Jude Bellingham is set to return for Real Madrid in their derby clash with Atletico Madrid after a six-week absence. The England international has been called up by Thomas Tuchel for his next squad, and is now set to make his first appearance for Los Blancos since February 1 when the two bitter rivals meet again.
Barcelona are willing to offload Jules Kounde this summer, per a new report, despite the defender signing a long-term contract extension until 2030 last summer. The France international is no longer seen as "untouchable" within the Spotify Camp Nou squad and offers may well be considered should they arrive when the transfer window reopens.
Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa has dismissed concerns regarding Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham joining their national teams. Despite recent injury scares at the Santiago Bernabeu, the coach insists the superstar duo are ready for both club and country, thus he is happy for them to play over the upcoming international window.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has laid down the gauntlet for Dani Carvajal after the Real Madrid captain was a surprise omission from the latest La Roja squad. The veteran defender faces a race against time to prove his fitness and form ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with Spain going into the tournament as European champions.
Bournemouth face a fight to keep hold of head coach Andoni Iraola, with Athletic Club stepping up their pursuit of the Spaniard. With his contract expiring this summer, the 43-year-old is also attracting serious interest from Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace following a fine three-season spell at the Cherries.
Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has vehemently dismissed reports claiming that Bruno Guimaraes is in "advanced talks" to join Manchester United. Howe expressed visible frustration over the timing of these rumors, as the ninth-placed Magpies fight to secure a European spot for next season.
Ernesto Valverde has announced he will leave Athletic Club at the end of the season, bringing the curtain down on an incredible tenure with the Basque club that has spanned three separate spells in the dugout and six seasons as a player. The 60-year-old made the announcement in a short video, where he also confirmed he will remain in charge until the end of the season.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has surprised everyone with an XXL squad for the training camp in March. However, there was no place for a Real Madrid superstar.
Atletico Madrid are exploring a summer move for Marseille star Mason Greenwood as they prepare for a potential overhaul of their attacking options. Diego Simeone is reportedly keen on the forward, who previously excelled in La Liga during a loan spell with Getafe.
Girona head coach Michel has sparked speculation by declaring himself prepared for a high-profile move to Manchester City. As Pep Guardiola’s future remains a subject of intense debate, the Spaniard has voiced his confidence in stepping up to the Premier League giants.
In a night of pure attacking brilliance, Barcelona crushed Newcastle 7-2. Lamine Yamal’s magic and Raphinha’s clinical finishing were the engines behind the rout—here’s the tactical deep dive into why Newcastle simply couldn’t cope.
Vinicius Junior returns to haunt Manchester City, following up on his match-winning performance at Etihad Stadium with a defiant explanation for his controversial goal celebration. After opening the scoring with a penalty, the Brazilian forward made a "crying" gesture at the home crowd. The act was a direct response to the taunts he received following his high-profile Ballon d'Or snub in 2024.
Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni is reportedly eager to join Barcelona this summer. The Italian giants are prepared to sell their prized centre-back for a massive fee to balance their books. Despite having a contract until 2028, recent controversies and mounting pressure at the San Siro have accelerated his potential departure to the Spanish top flight.
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