Real Madrid hit by absences for Benfica trip
Real Madrid lose buyback and first-refusal leverage on ex-youth Alex Jimenez as Bournemouth sign him from AC Milan for €22m. Any future move needs direct talks with the Cherries.
Arbeloa’s Madrid rediscover basics after Villarreal win: defensive solidity, quick transitions and intensity. Courtois says “everything is fitting together”; Güler and Mastantuono key to the lift.
Dean Huijsen is now 100% fit, easing Madrid’s defensive strain amid injuries to Rüdiger, Militao, Mendy, Carvajal and Alexander-Arnold. He has started the last two, completing 90 vs Villarreal and Monaco.
Madrid scout Roma’s Neil El Aynaoui after standout AFCON. Initial talks held; player keen and makes Real his priority. Club will monitor until season end. Shortlist also includes Rodri, Kees Smit.
On-loan Madrid forward Endrick hits a hat-trick for Lyon in a 5-2 win at Metz, moving to 4 goals and 1 assist in 3 Ligue 1 games. He targets Brazil’s World Cup squad and a Bernabéu return.
Real Madrid visit Benfica with Alexander-Arnold, Rudiger, Militao and Mendy out; no suspensions. Arbeloa’s side already assured knockouts, chasing top-eight finish in Champions League league phase.
