Luka Modric has credited former manager Jose Mourinho for pushing through his legendary transfer to Real Madrid in 2012. The veteran midfielder revealed that the Portuguese tactician's relentless insistence prevented the Spanish giants from abandoning their lengthy negotiations with Tottenham Hotspur.
Real Madrid may have enjoyed a productive summer transfer window, but the shadow of what could have been still looms over the Santiago Bernabeu. While Los Blancos have made a strong start to the season, reports have revealed that Jose Mourinho’s preferred target to strengthen the midfield was Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez who moved to Manchester City.
Real Madrid have taken immediate action against academy graduate Raul Asencio after the defender was caught driving under the influence of alcohol during a trip to Gran Canaria. The youngster, who once held a promising future at the Bernabeu, now faces severe internal disciplinary proceedings alongside his legal conviction.
Youth player Jorge Rajado has signed a contract with city rivals Real Madrid after leaving Atletico Madrid. This emerges from a post on his Instagram profile, in which he can be seen wearing a Real shirt.
The completion of big-money deals became a near-daily occurrence between June and September, but which of the continent's most powerful clubs spent most wisely?
An emotional return to Birmingham for Jude Bellingham is not being ruled out, although former Blues boss Steve Bruce has told GOAL that it could be a “long, long time” before such a move is considered. The No.22 shirt at St Andrew’s, which has been retired, is waiting to be filled again by a home-grown hero that is currently starring as a ‘Galactico’ with Real Madrid.
Dietmar Hamann has admitted to GOAL there is “always a chance” that Erling Haaland will leave Manchester City “when Barcelona or Real Madrid come calling”. Those approaches have not been made as yet, with the Norwegian striker tied to a contract through to 2034, but there will come a point when a fresh start away from the Etihad Stadium is considered.
LaLiga has contributed to developing Iraqi football, strengthening its structures and supporting young talent, leaving a sustainable legacy for football in Iraq.