Marc Cucurella has made his long-awaited debut for Real Madrid during their pre-season victory over Schalke 04 at the Veltins-Arena. The Spanish defender expressed his delight after coming off the bench in the second half, insisting that his hard work over the years has finally paid off.
Despite the 3-0 defeat in the friendly against Real Madrid, the mood at Schalke on Sunday was excellent. The event was overshadowed, however, by an incident after the final whistle.
Hansi Flick has sent a definitive message to the Barcelona board regarding his squad depth despite the club nearing a massive transfer breakthrough to sign Man City ace Rodri. The German tactician remains adamant that further reinforcements are required to return the Blaugrana to the pinnacle of European football.
Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola took plenty of positive lessons from his side's 2-0 friendly victory over Como 1907 at Anfield. First-half goals from Cody Gakpo and debutant Jeremy Jacquet ensured the Reds finished their pre-season schedule on a high ahead of the Premier League opener.
Real Madrid completed their pre-season preparations with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Schalke 04 at the Veltins-Arena. Kylian Mbappe scored early on his first pre-season appearance before manager Jose Mourinho handed debuts to new arrivals Marc Cucurella and Yan Diomande.
Liverpool's pre-season preparations took a gruesome turn on Sunday when their behind-closed-doors friendly match against Italian side Como was marred by a horrific injury. Alberto Dossena suffered a severe dislocated finger during the goalless draw, prompting the club's official broadcast channel, LFCTV, to issue an immediate on-air apology to their viewers.
