news-engine

Real Madrid News Arsenal manager shuts down transfer hopes for Real Madrid midfield target Real Madrid’s search for a new midfielder has brought several names into the conversation, but one possible option can now be crossed off the list, at least for the time being. It must be remembered that Martin Zubimendi has been linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu following Rodri’s decision to join Barcelona. The Arsenal midfielder was seen as a potential alternative, but Mikel Arteta has denied the possibility of the Spaniard leaving the club this summer, reports El Larguero. Real Madrid links emerged because… Zubimendi’s name returned to the Real Madrid conversation after reports suggested Arsenal could be open to considering his future. The arrival of Bruno Guimaraes has increased competition in Arsenal’s midfield, leading to questions over how many minutes Zubimendi will receive during the season. With Real Madrid looking at their own midfield options, the circumstances were enough to create fresh speculation around a possible move. Notably, the Los Blancos have followed Zubimendi in the past, which made the links more believable than a completely new transfer rumour. However, the situation within Arsenal appears very different from the one being discussed in Spain. Arteta remains convinced by what Zubimendi brings to his team. Hence, a reduced workload at the start of the campaign should not be confused with a reduced role in the manager’s plans. Arsenal close the door on Zubimendi departure El Larguero has also played down the possibility of a Real Madrid move. Journalist Pablo Montano explained that the latest rumours have gained more traction in Spain than they have in England, while stressing Arteta’s belief that Zubimendi remains essential to the Arsenal project. “It’s all come about more in Spain than in England… Arteta says he’s irreplaceable and that they need him.” Zubimendi’s recent appearances from the bench have also helped fuel the discussion, but the explanation from Arsenal is that the midfielder’s minutes are being managed rather than his position being questioned. As Montano explained, “He’s started on the bench this year precisely to spread his workload.” For Real Madrid, that closes off the main argument behind the possible move. Zubimendi is not being pushed out, and Arsenal do not appear ready to entertain offers for a player Arteta considers important. Real Madrid News Real Madrid to honour two World Cup winners at Santiago Bernabeu during Real Sociedad clash Real Madrid started their La Liga campaign on a winning note, with a late 2-1 win over Espanyol thanks to goals from Jude Bellingham and Carlos Espi. They are now set to welcome Real Sociedad to the Santiago Bernabeu in what will be their second league game of the season. Jose Mourinho will be hoping for a more cohesive performance than the one against Espanyol and to see more positives against the Basque club. Now, according to COPE, Los Blancos are set to stage a special tribute at the Bernabeu, with Marc Cucurella and Mikel Oyarzabal due to be recognised for winning the World Cup with Spain. The trophy itself will be present at the Bernabeu tomorrow as part of the ceremony, adding extra significance to the occasion. Cucurella to receive Real Madrid tribute Cucurella will be honoured by Real Madrid after returning from the tournament as a world champion. The left-back joined Madrid this summer and has quickly become one of the most high-profile additions to Jose Mourinho’s squad. For the club, the tribute is a chance to celebrate both the achievement of one of their own players and Spain’s success on the biggest international stage. It should also offer Cucurella a memorable Bernabeu moment early in his Madrid career. Oyarzabal to be recognised by Real Sociedad Mikel Oyarzabal will also be part of the celebrations, although his recognition will come from Real Sociedad. COPE reports that both clubs will take part in honouring their respective World Cup winners, creating a shared moment before attention turns back to domestic competition. Oyarzabal was one of Spain’s key figures during the tournament and remains one of Real Sociedad’s most important players. For supporters inside the Bernabeu, it will be a rare opportunity to see the World Cup up close while celebrating two players who helped Spain lift it. While most of the attention in the Bernabeu will understandably be on Cucurella, the fans should also take the opportunity to honour Oyarzabal. Cucurella has arrived at the club not only as a major signing for the Mourinho era but as a world champion, and he is yet to get started properly in his Los Blancos career. Tomorrow would give him the opportunity to receive the love that the Bernabeu gives him and use it as motivation to continue having memorable nights at the stadium in the seasons to come.