Real Madrid news

Real Madrid’s Champions League campaign has suffered a significant blow after Rodrygo was handed an extended two-match suspension by UEFA. The Brazilian was sent off during a dramatic 4-2 defeat to Benfica, and his punishment ensures he will miss both legs of the upcoming knockout play-off rematch against the Portuguese giants. With stars like Jude Bellingham also sidelined, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa faces a major tactical crisis.

Kevin-Prince Boateng has revealed that he “had to lie” about his love for Cristiano Ronaldo in order to become a team-mate of Lionel Messi at Barcelona. The former Ghana international completed a shock move to Camp Nou in 2019. After sealing that switch, it was made clear to him that he was not to speak in glowing terms about CR7 or Clasico rivals Real Madrid.

Why does Cristiano Ronaldo always have so much bad luck?!... First, Erik ten Hag didn't recognise his unrivalled ability at Manchester United, then Fernando Santos ruined his 2022 World Cup bid with Portugal. And now, the powers that be in Saudi Arabia are conspiring to make sure his trophy drought in the Middle East extends to three-and-a-half seasons. Give the guy a break!...

Endrick continues to set French football alight after his latest heroics for Lyon in the Coupe de France. The Real Madrid loanee secured a vital breakthrough against Laval, later admitting the strike allowed him to vent frustrations from previous weeks. With five goals in five games, the Brazilian starlet is quickly becoming the new idol of the Groupama Stadium faithful.

Endrick continues to offer parent club Real Madrid timely reminders of what he is capable of, with another spectacular goal being recorded during a productive loan spell at Lyon. The Brazilian wonderkid headed to France at the start of the winter transfer window after finding regular game time in Spain hard to come by. A dream start to life at the Groupama Stadium has been enjoyed.

Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi has responded to speculation that he is the one player Real Madrid need right now amid a difficult season for Los Blancos. The Spanish giants have already sacked manager Xabi Alonso and brought in Alvaro Arbeloa but sit second in La Liga, are out of the Copa del Rey and face a play-off against Benfica to secure a place in the last 16 of the Champions League.

Real Madrid have paid a heavy price for failing to replace Toni Kroos following his retirement in 2024, but then doing so was always going to be a tough task. For starters, the ex-Germany international ranks as one of the finest deep-lying playmakers of the modern era.

Flamengo’s sporting director has jokingly suggesting that Vinicius Junior is next on his transfer wishlist following the sensational return of Lucas Paqueta. During the playmaker’s official unveiling in Rio de Janeiro, the club chief could not resist a cheeky dig at Real Madrid regarding a future free transfer for their global superstar, hinting that the "project" to reunite the academy graduates is already on his mind.

Didier Deschamps has launched a passionate defence of Kylian Mbappe, insisting the Real Madrid superstar will never run "11 kilometres per match" but remains a "true captain" for his country. The France boss hit back at ongoing criticism of the forward’s work rate, claiming his explosive profile requires a different tactical approach to get the best out of him for Les Bleus.

The January transfer window offered admittedly few high profile moves, but there were certainly some significant deals that will have an impact this year and for those to come.

Real Madrid wonderkid Franco Mastantuono has been told he must toughen up and show significantly more bravery if he wants to succeed at the Bernabeu. Argentina legend Mario Kempes believes the 18-year-old is currently failing to reach his potential and has urged him to emulate Barcelona rival Lamine Yamal while outworking superstars like Kylian Mbappe to survive at the club.

Ezequiel Garay forms part of an exclusive group of players. The former Real Madrid and Argentina defender has worked alongside Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. That makes him well placed to pass judgement of which of the iconic forwards can be considered the GOAT. It comes as little surprise to find that the South American sides with his fellow countryman.

Former Manchester United and Portugal winger Nani has had his say on some of the top attacking talents in European football, offering his backing to the likes of Marcus Rashford and Antoine Semenyo. The four-time Premier League winner was eventually forced to choose his ultimate forward in a bracket that included Real Madrid sensation Jude Bellingham and Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal - scroll on to find out who won!