Real Madrid icon Marcelo has lifted the lid on his early days at the Bernabeu, detailing the extraordinary welcome he received from his predecessor Roberto Carlos. Despite arriving in the Spanish capital with the explicit purpose of replacing the veteran defender, Marcelo found a mentor rather than a rival in his fellow countryman.
Former France international Vikash Dhorasoo has issued a rallying cry to Indian football, insisting that his own decorated career serves as evidence that players of Indian descent can reach the very top of the game. The former midfielder, who reached the World Cup final with Les Bleus, believes the nation's current standing does not reflect its massive potential.
Endrick is reportedly weighing up a January exit from Real Madrid after struggling for playing time under Jose Mourinho. The Brazilian starlet was persuaded to stay at the Bernabeu following talks with the manager in the summer, but a lack of minutes has reopened the door to a loan move away. Serie A giants Roma and AC Milan are among the top European clubs closely monitoring the forward's situation.
Barcelona have been left sweating over the fitness of Raphinha after the winger suffered a worrying injury blow while representing Brazil. The Catalan giants are reportedly livid with how the Selecao boss Carlo Ancelotti has managed their star man's workload during a busy international window.
Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior has candidly addressed his recent drop in form, admitting that he is currently battling a lack of confidence on both the domestic and international stages. The Brazilian forward, usually so clinical and flamboyant, has found goals hard to come by lately as he continues to process the emotional fallout of a disappointing World Cup this summer.
Barcelona forward Raphinha has been withdrawn from the Brazil squad ahead of Saturday's friendly meeting with India after sustaining a muscle problem. The Selecao captain converted a penalty in Tuesday's 4-2 triumph over Australia before being withdrawn at the interval, with tests confirming swelling in his troublesome right thigh.
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