Real Madrid’s opener set, Mourinho audits, Bellingham to star
New left-back Marc Cucurella vows to ‘do all the dirty work’ for Mbappé and Vinícius, saying his only target is to win as he replaces Álvaro Carreras as first-choice under Mourinho.
Mourinho orders audits of academy and medical staff, targeting pathway for talents like Thiago Pitarch and César Palacios. First-team doctor Manuel Arroyo exits, Pintus’ role under review as fitness methods are reassessed.
Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal hails Vinícius Jr as a standout at the World Cup, citing his goals and work rate, alongside praise for Messi and Ismael Saibari.
Ferland Mendy will stand trial over an alleged 2023 dog attack. Prosecutors seek a €1,200 fine and €5,660 compensation, while a private case seeks a six-month sentence. A trial date is pending.
Bellingham shines for England with 2 goals and an assist, excelling as a 10. Mourinho plans a 4-2-3-1 at Madrid with Jude as the advanced link behind Mbappé, echoing his prolific debut season role.
Bernardo Silva confirms he is happy with his Madrid move but will not discuss it during the World Cup, saying he is focused on Portugal. He looks forward to working with Mourinho after the tournament.
César Palacios, 21, dubbed the ‘prince’ of La Fábrica, will join Mourinho’s pre-season after six senior outings last term. With Ceballos gone and Nico Paz out, the midfielder aims to earn a bigger Bernabéu role.
Mourinho’s Madrid open LaLiga at home to Real Sociedad on Aug 15-16. First Clásico at Barcelona on Oct 24-25, return in Madrid May 8-9. Madrid visit Atlético Sep 19-20, host return Apr 3-4, finish hosting Deportivo May 29-30.
Madrid are well placed to sign Inter centre-back Alessandro Bastoni after Barça talks stalled. Mourinho backs the move and Bastoni has ‘put everything on hold’ to wear white, per AS.
Madrid ask about Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha as Mourinho targets a midfielder. Enzo Fernández remains preferred but difficult. Further sales expected before moves, with Camavinga touted as a likely departure.
