Real Madrid miss out on Rodri as Mourinho explains move
Real Madrid academy right-back David Jimenez is wanted by Almeria and Oviedo, with Cadiz also enquiring, as the 22-year-old looks set to seek regular senior football.
Yan Diomande impressed in 29 minutes of Real Madrid’s 3-0 win over Schalke, standing out for his dribbling, defensive work and a half-chance created for Vinicius Jr.
Rodri said Barcelona were his first option despite a Real Madrid proposal. The midfielder, now signed until 2030, called leaving Man City the hard part of the decision.
Carles Puyol said Mourinho could make Real Madrid even stronger, praising him as a great coach while backing Barcelona to challenge with Rodri in their side.
Dean Huijsen is reportedly set to start Real Madrid’s Liga opener alongside new signing Ibrahima Konate, with Antonio Rudiger initially facing a place on the bench.
Real Madrid reportedly bid under €40m for Rodri and only rose to about €45m, well below Barcelona’s €60m deal plus add-ons, before losing the race for the midfielder.
If Real Madrid fail to sign a new centre-back such as Bastoni, Mourinho is ready to rely on academy defender Mario Rivas, who impressed alongside Alex Ciria in pre-season.
Mourinho still wants Real Madrid to add a centre-back and a midfielder despite six signings, but any further arrivals depend on sales being made first.
Mourinho said Real Madrid made Rodri a major offer but ended their pursuit after his hesitation. He said Los Blancos cannot have players who second-guess themselves.
Mourinho plans to use Endrick as both a centre-forward and a right-wing option, with Real Madrid short of regular performers on that flank.
