WHAT VINICIUS JR TOLD ARSENAL BEFORE RENEWING WITH REAL MADRID

 

Vinicius Junior’s decision to extend his Real Madrid contract was communicated to Arsenal last Wednesday by both the player and his representatives, according to The Athletic.

Mikel Arteta wanted the Brazilian at the Emirates Stadium club, and the Gunners fancied their chances of bringing him to North London.

While there was never a formal agreement in place between Arsenal and Vinicius, personal terms between both parties would not have been an issue.

The 26-year-old was persuaded that the Premier League champions were serious about signing him due to the figures discussed during the meetings

The Gunners were willing to make a huge effort and break their salary structure to secure his services.

While they believed that their offer would make it difficult for Madrid to compete financially, things changed.

Los Blancos offered him an improved offer, which was enough to convince the Brazilian to stay and commit his future to the 15-time Champions League winners.

The La Liga club announced last Thursday that Vinicius had finally signed a contract renewal.

The player and his representatives expressed their gratitude to Arsenal for the treatment they had received.

They explained they were only turning the Gunners down because of Vinicius’ affection for Madrid and their significant financial effort to retain him.

Arteta is now moving on to other targets, but the fact that the North Londoners came close to signing one of the best and biggest players on the planet speaks volumes.

They will look to make similar moves in subsequent transfer windows, and establishing themselves as regular contenders for the Champions League remains the big goal.

- Alani Adefunmiloye

VINICIUS JR AGREEMENT CONFIRMES AS DECISION BETWEEN ARSENAL, REAL MADRID MADE

Vinicius Junior has reached an agreement, with Arsenal and Real Madrid learning who the Brazil superstar will play for next season, according to a report.

On the back of lifting their first Premier League title in over two decades, Arsenal sought to attack the transfer market to help launch a dynasty.

Bruno Guimarães is arriving to the tune of £75m and the Brazilian has passed a medical. Personal terms are already sealed.

However, The Gunners aimed to sign an even higher profile Brazil international in the form of Real Madrid winger, Vinicius Junior.

The 26-year-old is in the final year of his contract at the Bernabeu and Real Madrid have no intention of losing such a highly valuable asset to free agency next summer.

As such, only two outcomes appeared to be in play – Vinicius re-signs at Real or joins Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta’s side made a huge play for Vinicius, with the Spaniard personally contacting the winger to discuss his role at the Emirates.

Arsenal also made it crystal clear they were fully prepared to demolish their wage structure and make Vinicius Junior by far their highest paid player ever.

However, the player’s preference always remained re-signing with Real Madrid. And on Wednesday, a crunch round of talks between he, his agents and the LaLiga giant took place.

While no agreement was struck at that time, Ben Jacobs and Fabrizio Romano were among many more trusted sources to stress Vinicius was now likely to remain a Madridista.

Ben Jacobs wrote on X: ‘Understand Real Madrid are confident this evening that Vinicius Jr will extend after productive talks.’

Fabrizio Romano took to the same platform when stating: ‘Real Madrid are increasingly confident to receive final green light from Vinicius Jr on new contract.

‘New proposal being discussed but Madrid optimistic and Vini Jr’s camp also positive after today’s meeting. José Mourinho also got involved.’

He subsequently added: José Mourinho, personally involved in Vinicius Jr new contract discussions as he’s been pushing for the Brazilian to stay.

‘Real Madrid are confident, José told the club he wants Vini to stay and also told Vini about plans for him to continue.’

Vinicius Junior agrees new contract at Real Madrid

And on Thursday morning, Spanish reporter, Ramon Alvarez de Mon, claimed an agreement has now been struck that will see Vinicius sign a contract extension at the Bernabeu, thus ending Arsenal’s hopes.

The reporter, who boasts over 300,000 followers on X: wrote: ‘Vinicius and Real Madrid reach an agreement for his contract renewal, which is expected to be signed soon.’

Missing out on Vinicius Junior will be a painful blow to Arsenal who have already tried and failed to sign another major name for the left side this summer – Morgan Rogers.

The Gunners could now reignite interest in PSG’s Bradley Barcola, though there could be more heartache for the Gunners.

Barcola is Liverpool’s top target and according to Jacobs, the Frenchman will prioritise signing for Liverpool over Arsenal if both clubs strike a deal with PSG…

- Steve Pearson

REAL MADRID LEGEND IMPLORES 'DECEITFUL' GIANNI INFANTINO TO RESIGN AS FIFA PRESIDENT

Infantino is under immense pressure after his foiled plans to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors

FIFA president Gianni Infantino (L) and Luis Figo (R) © VALERIANO DI DOMENICO / AFP

Luis Figo has implored Gianni Infantino to resign as pressure mounts on the much-criticised Fifa president following his foiled attempts to sell stakes in the World Cup.

Infantino was forced to abandon his plans – namely to sell stakes in the World Cup and other Fifa tournaments to private investors – after public uproar last week, with Uefa confirming a boycott of Fifa events if the plan was voted through.

On Tuesday, Jordan FA president Prince Ali bin Hussein accused Infantino of “blackmail” and, under immense pressure, the Fifa boss has called a meeting with senior leaders of world football’s governing body on Wednesday.

Real Madrid and Portugal legend Figo, who stood to be Fifa president in 2015 before withdrawing prior to the election won by Sepp Blatter (who made way for Infantino a year later), has now branded the various actions of Infantino as the “lowest, most deceitful and cravenly self-interested behaviour I have ever witnessed” in a stinging column for the Daily Mail.

Figo, who works as an adviser for Uefa, said: “I could write 10,000 words on the problems at Fifa. But the solution needs only three: Infantino must go.

“I have loved football all my life. I was a professional player for 20 years. And believe me, I have met some rogues in my time in the game. But what I have seen exposed in the last 10 days is the lowest, most deceitful and cravenly self-interested behaviour I have ever witnessed.

“The man who would do that – the man who would try to force through such major changes just to enrich himself and his friends – is a relic of the game’s past and should have no part in its future.”

Figo then listed the “litany of abuses” Infantino has enacted in recent months, including the Folarin Balogun debacle at the World Cup and extending the half-time break of the World Cup final for a musical show.

“Infantino has debased the office of Fifa president that he promised to elevate,” Figo added. “He has lied, deceived and tried to feather his own nest at the expense of the game he is supposed to serve.

“He has lost the support of his senior staff, his closest advisers, the vast majority of people who devote their lives to this sport and even, it would seem, the Fifa Peace Prize winner [Donald Trump].

“It is too late to save his dignity but it is not too late to save football. He should go. Now.”

Fifa secretary general Mattias Grafstrom criticised Infantino’s plans to sell stakes in an internal memo, while ex-Arsenal manager and Fifa’s chief of global football development Arsene Wenger said abandoning the proposals was “absolutely necessary and beyond question.”

The Football Association of Wales have withdrawn support for Infantino’s re-election next year, with the Football Association set to follow. Infantino will now be looking to argue his case and secure his position at Wednesday’s crucial meeting in Morocco.

- Kieran Jackson

JUDE BELLINGHAM RECEIVES HERO'S WELCOME ON RETURN TO BIRMINGHAM CITY

 

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - JULY 31: Jude Bellingham, England International and former Birmingham City player, acknowledges the fans as he takes his seat during the during the pre-season friendly match between Birmingham City and FC Barcelona at St Andrew’s at Knighthead Park on July 31, 2026 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images) Getty Images

Jude Bellingham enjoyed an emotional homecoming on Friday as he returned to St Andrew’s Stadium to watch Birmingham City’s preseason friendly against Barcelona.

The Real Madrid midfielder, who began his professional career with Birmingham before making his move to Borussia Dortmund and eventually Los Blancos, was back at the club where his rise to stardom first began. His appearance in the stands did not go unnoticed, with supporters giving the England international a rousing ovation in recognition of everything he has accomplished since leaving his boyhood club.

Jude. He's home. 💙 pic.twitter.com/4pb6UvXa5x

— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) July 31, 2026

Bellingham made his senior debut for Birmingham as a teenager and quickly established himself as one of the brightest young talents in English football. His rapid development earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund, where he became one of Europe's premier midfielders before joining Real Madrid in the summer of 2023.

"He's one of our own." 💙 What a reception for Jude Bellingham. Special moment at St. Andrew's. #BCFC #KRO pic.twitter.com/6mivDdB6rf

— Inti Official – Co‑Founded Blues 4 All (@Inti_Official) July 31, 2026

The warm reception highlighted the lasting affection between Bellingham and the Birmingham faithful, whose admiration for their former academy graduate remains as strong as ever.

- Managing Madrid

VINICIUS JR REACHES DECISION ON JOINING ARSENAL OR STAYING AT REAL MADRID, AS ULTIMATUM REACHED

Arsenal are continuing to monitor Vinicius Junior’s contract situation at Real Madrid, with sources confirming to TEAMtalk that the Gunners are being kept informed by the Brazilian’s representatives and intermediaries as negotiations over a new deal reach a pivotal stage.

The latest developments come after Real Madrid informed Vinicius that their current proposal represents their final offer.

TEAMtalk understands the Spanish giants have made it clear they will not improve their terms, believing they have reached the limit of what they are prepared to offer while maintaining their carefully managed wage structure.

Real remain determined to keep Vinicius and the player himself would still prefer to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu.

However, sources insist the situation is far from resolved.

We understand the biggest stumbling block is the signing-on bonus attached to a new contract.

Vinicius’ camp believe he deserves a package comparable to the one Kylian Mbappe received when he joined Real Madrid, with sources indicating they are seeking a figure close to the £85million signing bonus awarded to the France captain.

Real Madrid’s response has been firm.

Club officials have pointed out that Mbappe arrived as a free agent after the expiry of his Paris Saint-Germain contract, making his situation fundamentally different to that of a player already under contract at the club.

That disagreement has created months of deadlock.

Real Madrid have now informed Vinicius’ representatives there will be no further negotiations on improved financial terms.

The message is simple – accept the current offer or the club will consider other options.

Real Madrid won’t allow Vinicius Jr to leave via free agency

TEAMtalk understands Real remain unwilling to risk Vinicius entering the final year of his contract without an agreement in place.

If no breakthrough is reached, they would rather sanction a sale this summer than face the prospect of losing one of their biggest assets for nothing in 2027.

While the contract situation continues to dominate headlines, Real Madrid are pressing ahead with other business.

TEAMtalk understands Los Blancos expect to complete the signing of Yan Diomande this weekend, with talks continuing with RB Leipzig over the final details of the deal.

The highly-rated youngster is not viewed as a direct replacement for Vinicius, but his arrival would provide Jose Mourinho with greater attacking depth and another versatile option across the frontline.

Real’s plan is very much for Diomande and Vinicius to play together, not instead of one another, and everyone at the club remains hopeful that will be the case next season.

That is where Arsenal continue to watch developments closely. Sources have told TEAMtalk that the Gunners remain in contact with Vinicius’ camp and continue to receive updates on the situation.

Vinicius Jr favours Real Madrid stay over joining Arsenal

While Arsenal have enormous admiration for the Brazilian and have made clear they would be willing to offer him a hugely lucrative package, there has been no indication from the player that he is actively pushing to leave Madrid.

Indeed, those close to the negotiations continue to stress that Vinicius’ priority is still to remain in Spain.

However, Arsenal’s interest is genuine. TEAMtalk understands the prospect of living and playing in London is something Vinicius has discussed with those around him and is viewed positively.

Should negotiations with Madrid ultimately collapse, Arsenal believe they would be in a strong position to make their move.

Sources remain cautious over the likelihood of that scenario.

Vinicius expected to sign new Real Madrid contract

The overwhelming expectation among those involved is still that an agreement will eventually be reached and Vinicius will commit his long-term future to Real Madrid.

But unlike some reports suggesting the situation is already resolved, TEAMtalk understands there is still significant work to do before any contract is signed.

Until that happens, Arsenal will continue to keep a close eye on developments.

As one source told TEAMtalk: “Everyone still expects Vinicius to stay, but nobody can say it is guaranteed. Arsenal are informed about everything that is happening and they will be ready if the situation changes.”

- Graeme Bailey

REAL MADRID SET TO SIGN ONE OF THE WORLD'S HOTTEST TALENT AFTER $195M BID

 

Photo: Getty Images

Real Madrid look set to sign RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande after Paris Saint-Germain withdrew from negotiations, according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein.

Diomande is one of the hottest properties in this transfer window, having starred for Ivory Coast at the World Cup, following a breakout season where he scored 12 goals and provided nine assists in the Bundesliga.

Ornstein reports that Los Blancos had a bid rejected by Leipzig ‘around 10 days ago’ and returned with a new offer ‘worth €120million (A$195m, which includes a €100m (A$163m) fixed fee.’

The German outfit are reportedly yet to respond to that proposal, which is ‘expected to be turned down’, but the two clubs expect a deal will eventually be reached.

Meanwhile, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano reports that a deal has been reached for a fee ‘in excess of €100m’.

He reports that Diomande will fly to Madrid this week for medical tests and to sign a five-year deal.

Real Madrid expected to sign Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig. 1st bid rejected ~10 days ago, 2nd (€100m fixed, €120m package) set to be rejected but agreement likely soon. #PSG out; 19yo returns to #RBLeipzig on Mon with wish to join #RMFC @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/xc6EPzjCdr — David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) July 26, 2026

PSG were right in the mix to sign Diomande, who was said to be keen on joining the reigning Champions League winners, but were put off by the asking price and have now turned their attention to other options, amid reports Bradley Barcola is set to leave the club.

The Athletic report that Leipzig are ‘holding out for a fee closer to €130m (A$212m).

Should they achieve that, Diomande would become the eight most expensive player in football history, behind Neymar, Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Alexander Isak, Morgan Rogers, Elliott Anderson and Philippe Coutinho, per Transfermarkt.

That would be quite extraordinary when you consider where the 19-year-old was just a few years ago.

It was barely 18 months ago that Diamonde was playing for DME Sports Academy in Florida, before joining LaLiga side Leganes, where he made three reserve team appearances before being called up to the first team.

Leipzig paid his €20m release clause to bring him to the Bundesliga, where he exploded immediately. They look set to make a huge profit on the winger.

He could become the most expensive Real Madrid player ever, surpassing the fee the Spanish giants paid to sign Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund in 2023, with the club set for an enormous transfer window having brought Jose Mourinho back as head coach.

They’ve already signed Marc Cucurella, Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konate and Bernardo Silva, while reports suggest Madrid are also working on a deal to sign World Cup-winning Spain captain Rodri from Manchester City.

- JAKE ROSENGARTEN

YAN DIOMANDE MAKES FINAL TRANSFER DECISION AS REAL MADRID JOIN ARSENAL AND LIVERPOOL FOR £100M RB LEIPZIG STAR

Getty Images 

RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande has outlined his transfer preference amid mounting interest from Real Madrid, PSG, Arsenal, and Liverpool. The £100m-rated Ivory Coast international impressed during a breakout season in Germany and at the 2026 World Cup, leaving him keen on a summer departure despite Leipzig's public stance that he is not for sale.

Diomande signals summer exit

Leipzig winger Diomande has reportedly made his final decision regarding his next destination amid a fierce transfer battle involving PSG, Liverpool, Arsenal and Madrid. According to The Athletic, Los Blancos have even opened direct negotiations with Leipzig to sign the £100 million-rated winger after he registered 12 goals and eight assists in the Bundesliga and impressed in leading Ivory Coast to the last 32 of the 2026 World Cup. Despite Leipzig sporting director Marcel Schafer insisting the player is going nowhere, Diomande remains hopeful of finalising a move this summer.

Getty Images 

Winger outlines transfer stance

Asked about the speculation surrounding interest from Europe's elite during the World Cup, the young Ivorian star openly confirmed his expectation to leave Leipzig while leaving negotiations in his agent's hands.

Speaking to reporters, he stated: "First of all I think, like I said, my dream is playing for my country, and to make history with my country. I don't have Instagram anymore. I don't have TikTok as well, so I can't see anything! But I expect to leave, of course. And I have an agent, he's going to manage the rest. But for me, the most important thing right now is the focus on the World Cup with my country."

Meanwhile, regarding his boyhood club, Diomande previously told French media: "Paris Saint-Germain is a team I've loved since I was little. I think my father was a PSG supporter. It's a team I admire as a football fan."

Mourinho enters transfer race

A separate report from TEAMtalkclaims that Diomande's primary preference remains a move to PSG, though the winger is open to joining Madrid if the French giants fail to agree a fee with Leipzig. The race has intensified further after the Spanish giants, now led by new manager Jose Mourinho, entered the frame for the attacker as part of their squad overhaul. Elsewhere, Arsenal have also joined the pursuit after their attempt to sign Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa ended in failure.

Getty Images 

Leipzig demand premium fee

Diomande has now returned to pre-season training with Leipzig following his post-World Cup break. PSG are expected to submit a formal offer swiftly to prevent Madrid or the Premier League duo from hijacking the deal for their top target. Leipzig hold a strong negotiating position and are adamant they will only part ways with their prized asset if a suitor meets his valuation.

- Adhe Makayasa

JOSÉ MOURINHO NAMED NEW REAL MADRID MANAGER - WHAT WILL HE DO TO TURN THINGS AROUND?

 

Jose Mourinho is officially back in charge of Real Madrid, with the Spanish giants announcing he has returned for a second stint in charge at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Mourinho has left Benfica after less than a year in charge to take charge of Real Madrid once again, as he’s signed a three-year contract in the Spanish capital.

The legendary Portuguese coach probably thought this kind of opportunity was long gone after disappointing spells in charge of Tottenham Hotspur and Fenerbahce in recent years. But he steadied the ship impressively at Benfica and Real need his leadership, defensive organization and ability to handle big-name players. As well as his penchant for winning trophies.

Real Madrid released the following statement confirming the arrival of Mourinho.

“The Board of Directors of Real Madrid C.F., meeting today, Thursday, June 11, and presided over by Florentino Perez, has agreed to appoint Jose Mourinho as the first team’s head coach for the next three seasons, until June 30, 2029. Jose Mourinho will join Real Madrid on July 13, the day preseason begins.”

What will Real Madrid ask of Jose Mourinho?

To win. Quite simply that is it.

It doesn’t matter how he does it, Mourinho just has to deliver trophies.

Real Madrid finished without any silverware during the 2025-26 season as Xabi Alonso was fired midway through the campaign and Real limped to the finish line under caretaker boss Alvaro Arbeloa.

They finished a distant second to bitter rivals Barcelona in La Liga and were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League at the quarterfinal stage by Bayern Munich.

All of that led to immense pressure piling on long-time club president Florentino Perez, so he has gone back to an experienced coach who can take the pressure off him.

How can Mourinho turn things around at Real?

Mourinho will go to the Carlo Ancelotti school of man-management to try and get the best out of a hugely talented squad.

Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham are quite the superstar trio and Mourinho needs to find a way to get them all clicking together consistently.

On the pitch his first action will be to sort out the defensive unit, which he is great at doing, and then he will go from there.

With Barcelona threatening to become a dynasty under Hansi Flick as they’ve won back-to-back La Liga titles, Mourinho will put all of his focus on closing that gap to Barca.

He got close to doing that in his first spell in charge but Pep Guardiola’s legendary Barcelona side often pipped Mourinho’s Real to most of the major trophies.

But Mourinho did win one La Liga, a Spanish Cup and a Spanish Super Cup in his three years in charge at Real and his hope will be to replicate that feat, at the very least, during his three years in charge.

And we all know how much Mourinho would love to add another Champions League trophy to his personal cabinet, and Real’s obsession with extending their European Cups to 16.

- Joe Prince-Wright

REAL MADRID REACH €74M SHIRT SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENT

Real Madrid are set for a fresh boost to their coffers next season, as a result of a renewed shirt sponsorship agreement. Los Blancos have been in partnership with United Arab Emirates airline Fly Emirates for the past past 15 years, and are set to extend their partnership to two decades.

On Tuesday, Real Madrid announced that they had reached an agreement with Fly Emirates for another five years, with their agreement now ending in 2031. They announced that their partnership was build on excellence, ambition and a shared vision of the future.

Real Madrid earnings from Fly Emirates deal

Image via Real Madrid CF

It has been reported by Marca that the deal will be worth around €74m per annum to Los Blancos, making it the most lucrative shirt sponsorphip deal in the game. Yet Diario AS confirm that it could be worth even more, and could be around €70-80m per season. In total, combined with the shirt sleeve sponsorship and Adidas, Real Madrid will be raking in around €100m each year until 2031 as things stand.

Real Madrid released new home kit last week

Image via Real Madrid CF

Last week Real Madrid released their first home kit with pink trim for five years, with the Adidas stripes sporting an unusually bright colour, compared the usual gold or black. Los Blancos certainly got an important marketing boost with the visit of the Pope, who declared that he was a Real Madrid fan during his stay in the Spanish capital over the weekend.

Following that, Real Madrid put a series of limited edition ‘Leon the 19th’ shirts on sale for €195 over recent days. Pope Leo also visited the Santiago Bernabeu on Monday evening, following a series of concerts, and was presented with a shirt by President Florentino Perez, with the name Robert F. Prevost on the back.

- Ruairidh Barlow

FLORENTINO PÉREZ WINNING THE ELECTION WITH AROUND 65% OF THE VOTES, PER EXIT POLLS

Current Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is expected to get re-elected and win today’s election with around 65% of the votes, according to exit polls published on both MARCA and AS. Mail-in votes are not considered in those exit polls and Pérez is likely to increase his lead there, per sources.

The official result of today’s election will likely be announced tonight at around 10pm local time.

Real Madrid published the following announcement on its website earlier today.

The Real Madrid Electoral Board announces that, as of 5:00 pm, a total of 23,593 members have voted in the elections for Real Madrid President and Board of Directors, which are taking place at the Basketball Pavilion of Ciudad Real Madrid. This figure represents a 31.37% turnout. The polling stations will remain open continuously.

- Lucas Navarrete

'REAL MADRID ARE IN SERIOUS FINANCIAL CRISIS': ENRIQUE RIQUELME ISSUES BIG WARNING AHEAD OF ELECTION

Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images

In an attempt to achieve the uphill task of beating Florentino Perez in today's Real Madrid presidential election, Enrique Riquelme is relying on media attention and public stunts.

His wayward claims of bringing in Erling Haaland and Jurgen Klopp have already raised eyebrows, and according to rival Florentino Perez, public embarrassment to the club.

But Riquelme isn’t done yet and has made yet another controversial statement on the eve of the election.

Riquelme’s claim ahead of election

Speaking ahead of the election tomorrow, Riquelme warned that Real Madrid are in the midst of a serious financial crisis, calling for full transparency and pledging to order an independent external audit if he wins the presidency.

“There is no greater democratic fraud than taking the members to the polls in an extraordinary manner without them knowing the club’s true situation.

"Now we understand the need and the urgency to sell. Real Madrid is in a very serious financial crisis,” he said (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

He also called for immediate action to open up the club’s books to scrutiny. “It is urgent to lift the carpets and open the windows at Concha Espina,” he said.

An uphill battle

Despite all of Riquelme’s antics, though, history offers little encouragement for Riquelme.

After all, no first-time challenger has ever unseated a sitting Real Madrid president, and Florentino Perez holds a commanding advantage among the membership heading into polling day.

Whether Riquelme’s financial crisis claims will resonate with voters or simply add to the growing list of controversial statements that have defined his campaign remains to be seen.

- Anas Ali

BENFICA CONFIRM €15M JOSÉ MOURINHO SWITCH TO REAL MADRID

Real Madrid will have Jose Mourinho as their new manager, barring a shock U-turn. The Portuguese manager is set to return to the Santiago Bernabeu 13 years after leaving the club, as he again seeks to intervene against a Barcelona that is coming off successive title wins.

For some time, Mourinho has been slated to take over from Alvaro Arbeloa, when it was first reported in late April that President Florentino Perez was pushing for his return. The matter has been delayed by Perez’s decision to call elections, but Perez has continued to make moves despite being midway through elections. On Wednesday night, his campaign channel confirmed Mourinho would be his new manager.

Benfica confirm Real Madrid will pay Mourinho release clause

Image via Angel Martinez/Getty Images

Had Perez decided to move for Mourinho before the 26th of May, he could have signed him for just €3m, yet his release clause has risen since to €15m. As Benfica are on the stock market, they are forced to declare their moves publicly, and have thus announced that Real Madrid have activated Mourinho’s clause. He is to join Los Blancos on a three-year deal.

What happens if Enrique Riquelme wins the elections?

It is expected that Perez will emerge victorious in the elections on Sunday, after which Mourinho will be appointed as the new manager. Yet presidential rival Enrique Riquelme has declared that he is not in favour of having Mourinho as manager, and has another option lined up. It has not been revealed whether that is the case, but it would be no surprise if Mourinho’s contract included a get-out clause in case Perez loses the elections. Were that not to be the case, it would certainly be an uncomfortable.

- Ruairidh Barlow

MANCHESTER CITY CONSIDER LEGAL ACTION FOLLOWING REAL MADRID PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE'S ERLING HAALAND CLAIM

 June 4 – Manchester City are considering legal action after Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme publicly claimed he would sign Erling Haaland if elected president of the Spanish giants. 

The extraordinary intervention has added another layer of drama to Real Madrid’s first contested presidential election in two decades, with Riquelme using a television appearance on Wednesday to unveil a Madrid shirt bearing Haaland’s name and suggests the Norwegian striker was open to a move to the Santiago Bernabéu. 

“He has a release clause and would like to join Real Madrid,” Riquelme said. “If I become president, he will play for Real Madrid.” 

The comments were swiftly met with a robust response from both Haaland’s camp and Manchester City. In a joint statement issued by the player’s father and agent, the claims were dismissed outright, before City raised the prospect of legal action over the use of the striker’s image during the campaign. 

“The stories which have emerged from Spain regarding the future of Erling Haaland are untrue,” the statement read. “There is no chance of this happening and there is no contractual clause to enable it. 

“We are considering legal action for the use of our player image in this context.” 

Riquelme did not stop there. The 37-year-old businessman also pledged to bring City midfielder Rodri to Madrid should he defeat long-serving president Florentino Pérez. 

“He is a great player, in a position where Madrid need to strengthen,” Riquelme said. “We have spoken to his agent. We have to respect his club, but if I’m president he will play for Madrid. I will do everything possible.”

 The transfer promises have become a central feature of a campaign that has transformed what is usually a predictable Real Madrid presidential process into one of the club’s most colourful elections in recent memory. 

Pérez, who has largely dominated Madrid politics since returning to power in 2009, is facing opposition for the first time in 20 years following a disappointing campaign in which the club failed to secure major silverware. 

Riquelme has attempted to position himself as the candidate of change, promising sweeping benefits for club members, including the construction of a new fan complex near Madrid’s training centre featuring swimming pools, padel courts and a basketball arena. 

He has also pledged to cut annual membership fees by up to 50% should the club fail to win the Champions League next season. 

The challenger has further differentiated himself by opposing Pérez’s reported decision to appoint José Mourinho as head coach. While Pérez has yet to formally confirm the appointment, it is widely expected should he secure another term in office. 

Instead, Riquelme has repeatedly hinted at alternative targets, with former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp emerging as the standout name linked to his campaign. 

“My coach is the one Real Madrid fans want,” Riquelme said this week, declining to reveal a specific candidate. Speaking previously about Klopp, he added: “Naturally, I would love for profiles of that calibre, and others like them, to coach this club.” 

Pérez, meanwhile, has sought to focus attention on football matters rather than campaign theatrics. “I always say that in football you don’t always win,” he said. 

“We haven’t achieved the expected results, but we’ve identified the problems. The team couldn’t have a pre-season due to the Club World Cup, and that hampered us all year. 

“We had almost 30 injuries in the first half of the season and that was a decisive factor. We’re already working to face the challenges of the new season.” 

The increasingly bitter campaign has also been marked by public attempts from both camps to undermine one another. During Riquelme’s appearance on popular Spanish television show El Hormiguero, Pérez’s supporters reportedly purchased advertising space to announce Mourinho as the club’s next manager and urge members to back the incumbent president. 

Yet amid the political manoeuvring, it is the Haaland saga that has generated potentially the biggest consequences. 

- Harry Ewing

ESTIMATED CLUB EARNINGS | UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 2025/26

 

'FANTASTIC COACH': SPAIN MANAGER WELCOMES JOSE MOURINHO'S IMMINENT RETURN TO REAL MADRID

Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images

While the upcoming presidential elections might have slowed things down, it appears only a matter of time that Real Madrid announce the appointment of Jose Mourinho as the new manager.

With Alvaro Arbeloa having left, Los Blancos have already secured an agreement with the Portuguese tactician to take over.

However, the elections, where Florentino Perez is facing competition from Enrique Riquelme, has led to a brief pause on any movement.

Mourinho’s return is imminent. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Spain manager welcomes Mourinho return

In the unlikely event of Riquelme winning the elections, things could end up changing, but as things stand, Perez is expected to return as president and go ahead with Mourinho’s appointment as manager.

And, Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has shared his opinion about the Portuguese’s imminent return to the Santiago Bernabeu.

“I have a lot of respect for what clubs do. I don’t know the inner workings of a club like 

Real Madrid or others,” De la Fuente told RTVE (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

“I have total and absolute respect for the decisions clubs make. He’s a fantastic coach with a very important history at Real Madrid. I think the idea is excellent,” the Spain manager further stated.

Mourinho has already made demands

As reported earlier today, Mourinho has already made several demands with the Real Madrid board ahead of his impending return.

The former Real Madrid boss is seeking full control of transfers ahead of his second stint with the club and has identified four key areas of the squad that need to be strengthened – centre-back, full-back, central midfield, and playmaker.

- Raghavendra Goudar

THANK YOU, DAVID ALABA: FAREWELL & BEAT MOMENTS

 

KYLIAN MBAPPÉ EXPLOSIVE COMMENTS BRING REAL MADRID INTO THE OPEN

The forward had his say on recent controversies after the win over Oviedo.

Kylian Mbappé came off the bench in the second half of Thursday’s victory. | Oscar J. Barroso/Europa Press via Getty Images

Kylian Mbappé told reporters that he is “the fourth-choice striker” at Real Madrid, in the aftermath of Thursday night’s 2–0 victory over Real Oviedo, adding to the off-field drama surrounding the club.

Madrid made light work of La Liga’s bottom club, sealing the win with goals from Gonzalo García and Jude Bellingham. However, it was still a tough night at the Bernabéu, as several stars faced jeers from the crowd in their first outing since the Clásico defeat that confirmed Barcelona’s title.

Mbappé started the match on the bench, having missed the two previous matches, including El Clásico, with a hamstring issue. The French superstar entered the pitch midway through the second half, but was greeted with a chorus of boos from the home support and was regularly whistled throughout the rest of the game.

The reaction comes as little surprise, given that millions people have signed a petition calling for Mbappé’s Real Madrid exit, amid a season mired in disappointed and controversy.

The striker, who was included as captain in France’s 26-man World Cup roster announced on Thursday, bagged the assist for Bellingham’s goal on 80 minutes, but couldn’t add to his league-leading tally of 24 this season.

Mbappé did, however, ensure he stole the headlines after the match.

Mbappé’s Candid Mixed Zone Appearance

🗣️ Mbappé sobre su suplencia frente al Real Oviedo: "Estoy muy bien. Hoy no he sido titular porque Arbeloa me ha dicho que soy el cuarto delantero de la plantilla".

#LALIGAenDAZN ⚽ pic.twitter.com/RBousiSOMQ

— DAZN España (@DAZN_ES) May 14, 2026

When asked about his fitness after the match, Mbappé insisted he had been ready to start but was bumped down the pecking order by Álvaro Arbeloa.

“I’m 100% fine” he said. “I haven’t played because the manager told me I’m the fourth-choice striker in the squad behind [Franco] Mastantuono, Vini and Gonzalo. I was ready to start, it’s his decision and you always have to respect it. I’m not angry.”

The comments raised eyebrows, as the club’s highest-paid player continued to double down, speaking apparently without filter as he addressed his and Madrid’s situation, telling reporters in the mixed zone: “I prefer to speak here, with my own mouth. That way it’s clearer. My only responsibility is to play well and give everything for the badge.”

Asked what it’s like to be “fourth-choice,” Mbappé replied: “Ask the manager. What do you want me to say?

“I was ready to start, but it’s his decision. I can’t be angry with the manager. You always have to respect a manager’s opinion. I'll just work hard in training and matches, hoping to become a starter.”

In comments that appeared to be a direct slight on Arbeloa, Mbappé assessed Madrid’s disappointing season by saying: “We started the season well, in La Liga, in the Champions League ... but we lost it in the second half [of the campaign]. And it hurts a lot, because I feel we had a clear playing style and we let it slip away.”

Meanwhile, on the two managers he has played under this season, he said: “I have a great relationship with Xabi [Alonso], he’s going to be a great coach. But that’s in the past and we have to look ahead.

“I have no problem with Arbeloa. You have to respect him. You have to accept the coach’s philosophy, and I have to do my best to play ahead of Vini, Gonzalo and Mastantuono.”

When asked if he had been hurt by the manager’s recent comments, Mbappé joked: “I have French TV, I don't have Spanish TV at home. So I don’t know what he said!”

Arbeloa Insists ‘I Decide the Team’

Álvaro Arbeloa addressed Mbappé’s explosive claims in his post-match press conference. | Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto/Getty Images

In his post-match press conference, Arbeloa initially disputed Mbappé’s claims.

“He must not have understood correctly,” the Madrid boss insisted. “I don’t know what to tell you, I didn’t tell him he’s the fourth-choice striker.”

However, when pressed on the matter, Arbeloa hit back insisting he is the one responsible for team selection and the players need to live with it.

“If I don’t play him, he can’t play,” Arbeloa said. “I decide; I’m the coach. I spoke with him earlier, and I don’t know how he might have interpreted it. He shouldn’t have started today because it’s not a matter of life or death. We have a match on Sunday, and he’ll definitely be the starting striker.

“Seven days later, he’ll have earned his place as the starting striker. I decide who plays. I understand that whoever isn’t playing isn’t happy. I can understand that he’s not happy, but it’s a decision based on the circumstances. I didn’t want to take any risks. It was the most logical, common-sense thing to do.

“I said that a player who couldn’t even make the bench four days ago should come on in the second half. He’ll start on Sunday. Gonzalo deserved to play today. I understand that those who don’t start aren’t happy. But as long as I’m in this position, I’m going to make the decisions. If they like it, fine. If not, they can wait until next time.”

When asked about Mbappe’s comments that Madrid have fallen off in the second half of the season, Arbeloa snapped back at his No. 9.

“I’d be happy if he thinks that. He’s probably scored many more goals in the first half of the season than in the second,” Arbeloa concluded.

- Andrew Headspeath

'KYLIAN MBAPPÉ OUT' PETITION REACHES ALMOST SEVENTY MILLION SIGNATURES AMID REAL MADRID CRISIS

Getty Images Sport 

Kylian Mbappe’s dream move to Real Madrid is rapidly turning into a nightmare as the Frenchman struggles to find his feet in the Spanish capital. Despite arriving as the final piece of the Galactico puzzle, his presence has coincided with a dip in form for Alvaro arbeloa’s side, leading to unprecedented backlash from the global football community.

Frustration boils over at the Bernabeu

The honeymoon period for Mbappe at Real Madrid has officially ended, replaced by a sense of urgency and frustration that few could have predicted when he was unveiled in front of a packed Santiago Bernabeu last summer.

As Los Blancos struggle to keep pace in La Liga and show vulnerability in the Champions League, the finger of blame is increasingly being pointed at the former Paris Saint-Germain superstar.

Tactical imbalances have plagued Arbeloa since Mbappe's arrival, with the spanish coach struggling to fit both the Frenchman and Vinicius Junior into a cohesive front line.

This shift has affected more than the team's defensive stability, having also led to a perceived lack of chemistry in the final third that has left fans demanding immediate structural changes to save their season.

Getty Images Sport 

A digital protest of historic proportions

The depth of this dissatisfaction has manifested in a staggering digital protest, with an online petition calling for Mbappe’s departure reportedly reaching nearly 70 million signatures.

While the authenticity of every signature on such platforms can be difficult to verify, the sheer scale of the movement highlights a massive PR crisis for the player and a growing divide within the Madridista fan base.

The "Mbappe Out" movement has gained significant traction on social media, fuelled by viral clips of the striker's perceived lack of defensive work rate and missed clear-cut chances in high-stakes matches.

What lies ahead for the Frenchman?

Despite the noise and the tens of millions of digital signatures, Real Madrid’s hierarchy remains officially committed to making the Mbappe era a success. Florentino Perez spent years chasing the 25-year-old, and a departure so soon after his arrival remains highly improbable from a financial and political standpoint. However, the player himself is now under more pressure than ever to perform and silence his detractors on the pitch.

With crucial fixtures on the horizon, Mbappe must adapt his game to the rigors of Spanish football and show the sacrificial side of his play that fans are currently demanding.

- Mohamed Saeed

IT'S ALL ABOUT XABI ALONSO! LIVERPOOL FC HAVE REPORTEDLY CONTACTED REAL MADRID

 

The phones are ringing off the hook between Liverpool FC and Real Madrid. But this isn't about transfers; it's about the controversial Xabi Alonso case.

According to reports in the Spanish newspaper AS, Liverpool have contacted Real Madrid to enquire about Xabi Alonso and to gain insight into his brief, underwhelming spell as manager at the Bernabéu.

Before entrusting him with Arne Slot's legacy, Liverpool want to know why the former midfield maestro flopped so spectacularly in Madrid. The Mersey club is in a fragile position. 

After a disastrous season that has left Liverpool in disarray despite investments of over €400 million, Slot's days are numbered, and Alonso—long seen as the front-runner to take the LFC hot seat—is now being closely scrutinised. 

Getty Images Sport 

Arne Slot is under pressure at Liverpool FC

Slot is under contract with Liverpool until 2027. After a strong debut season in which he helped the Reds win the English league title comfortably, the club's campaign has derailed this term.

The club exited all three cup competitions—the Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup—at early stages and have long since relinquished their Premier League defence, currently sitting 20 points adrift of leaders Arsenal in fourth.

Slot and his playing style have therefore faced a barrage of criticism—some of it scathing—in recent months, and the English media report that the club is at least weighing a managerial change.

Alonso and the rift in Real's dressing room

Alonso had deeply split the Real Madrid dressing room, according to several media reports. Tensions rose in October as key players such as Vinicius Junior and Fede Valverde openly criticised his methods—including lengthy tactical sessions and video analysis.

Nevertheless, another faction backed Alonso's methods and his drive to overhaul the system and playing style. For these players, the persistent griping—especially from Vinicius—was merely a pretext; the Brazilian's standing under Alonso simply did not match his status under former coach Carlo Ancelotti. 

The disrespect shown by some players was so flagrant that, according to reports, some even pretended to sleep during tactical sessions and chatted when Alonso spoke. This behaviour not only infuriated his allies in the squad but also triggered a meltdown from the coach, who remains without a club. "I didn't realise I'd walked into a nursery here," the stunned Alonso is said to have shouted at one point.

- Translated by

EL CLASICO RECAP: BARCELONA VS. REAL MADRID REACTION