Real Madrid news

GOAL runs the rule over the British players earning a living away from their homeland, with plenty more stars deciding to leave their comfort zones in search of a better footballing life elsewhere. The Premier League is still obviously one of the world's most entertaining divisions and the Championship can prove fantastic for development, but there are more options out there.

The Bundesliga may still be on a winter break, but there was plenty of other action across Europe as 2026 got off to a cracking start for some of the continent's elite teams. In England, Arsenal took another big step towards a first Premier League title since 2004 by moving six points clear thanks to a 3-2 win at Bournemouth, while reigning champions Barcelona continue to lead the way in Spain after beating city rivals Espanyol thanks to late goals from Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski.

Xabi Alonso says Vinicius Junior is "fundamental" to Real Madrid after the winger was whistled by parts of the Santiago Bernabeu crowd in their 5-1 win over Real Betis. The Brazilian started well but faded as the game wore on, with the 25-year-old being jeered by some supporters when he was taken off. Despite that, former Bayer Leverkusen boss Alonso has come to the aid of the Los Blancos ace.

Bayern Munich wonderkid Lennart Karl has revealed the identity of his “dream club”. The teen sensation is thriving at the Allianz Arena for now, but he may seek out a new challenge at some stage. There will be no shortage of suitors when that day comes, with one of the hottest prospects on the planet admitting that he would like to represent Real Madrid.

Gonzalo Garcia scored a hat-trick as Real Madrid turned in their most comprehensive showing in months to beat a sluggish Real Betis 5-1 on Sunday. Los Blancos showed no hesitation with Kylian Mbappe out, putting on an attacking clinic in the absence of their star man as they returned to action after La Liga's winter break.

Real Madrid and England star Jude Bellingham has been defended from criticism by pundit Gordon Strachan, who insists that both Xabi Alonso and Thomas Tuchel need to "protect" the midfielder. Bellingham has been at the centre of controversy at international level and has also previously been defended by Ian Wright.

How to watch the LaLiga match between Real Madrid and Real Betis, as well as kick-off time and team news

Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has confirmed the club still don’t know when Kylian Mbappe will return after the France superstar was diagnosed with an injury to his left knee. Mbappe picked up a knock in training and is expected to miss forthcoming crunch clashes with Real Betis and Atletico Madrid, and Alonso isn’t able to put an exact date on when he’ll be back in the side.

Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has revealed Endrick’s ambition was behind the decision to allow him to join Lyon on loan for the remainder of the season. The Brazil star has been frustrated at his lack of playing time at the Bernabeu and has been granted his wish to leave in a bid to secure a place in the squad for this year’s World Cup in North America, Canada and Mexico.

GOAL U.S. writers take a look at some of the biggest storylines of the January transfer window.

Reports in Spain suggest that Rodrygo is laying the groundwork for a potential move away from Real Madrid. The Brazil international forward faces fierce competition for places at the Bernabeu and is growing increasingly frustrated at having to fill a support role. Interest in his services is said to have been shown from the Premier League, with Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City known to be admirers.

Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos is reportedly lining up a consortium that could see him rekindle his professional relationship with La Liga giants Sevilla. The World Cup winner has taken in two spells with his boyhood club as a player but, while waiting on offers to continue his career on the field, is now exploring the possibility of becoming part of an ownership group.

Hertha Berlin fans haven't had much to cheer about in recent years. Their decade-long stay in the Bundesliga ended after the team slumped to an 18th-placed finish in the 2022-23 season, just four years on from Lars Windhorst's €224 million minority takeover that came with the billionaire's promise to build a "true ‘big-city club’, like those in London or Madrid."