Real Madrid’s season hasn’t quite gone to plan. A this is added the situation that seems to threaten the White House, the situation between Jude Bellingham and Vinícius údoes not seem to be the best, despite their known good relationship.



This setback was compounded by the <a href="http://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/ballon-dor/">Ballon d’Or</a> controversy. Vinícius was the overwhelming favorite among unbiased analysts, yet the award went to Rodri—a particularly stinging outcome considering Jude Bellingham was also overlooked.



The result not only angered Real Madrid fans but also exposed simmering tensions between players. According to AS, Bellingham reportedly resented the club’s strong campaign for Vinícius without similar support for him.



This situation threatened to create friction between Vinícius and Bellingham. However, Florentino Pérez reportedly stepped in to mediate, aiming to prevent a major conflict. The two players had enjoyed a positive relationship since Bellingham’s arrival, and the president was keen to avoid disrupting that dynamic.


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Pérez spoke to Bellingham to explain the club’s stance, suggesting that campaigning for both players simultaneously might have backfired. While the club felt Bellingham deserved the award over Rodri, his Champions League performance apparently wasn’t given enough weight.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241104_WST_538476_vini-belli-1200x675_22d0c66f.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-538478" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/vini-belli-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/vini-belli-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/vini-belli-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/vini-belli-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/vini-belli-740x416.jpg 740w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/vini-belli-490x275.jpg 490w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/vini-belli-250x140.jpg 250w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/vini-belli.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Bellingham’s role this season</h2>



Bellingham’s role this season has been far more defensive, showcasing his commitment and work rate. Carlo Ancelotti recognizes Bellingham’s importance from last season, but Mbappé’s arrival has necessitated a more defensive approach. 



Bellingham is the only attacking player willing to perform the less glamorous defensive duties, supporting midfielders and defenders. However, this has significantly impacted his goal-scoring opportunities and overall offensive impact.



El Clásico perfectly illustrated Bellingham’s discomfort. He played deep, often behind Aurélien Tchouaméni and Lucas Vázquez, primarily on the right flank. This position limits his effectiveness, preventing him from showcasing his offensive capabilities. Heat maps reveal his limited passing and overall impact on the game.



The problem isn’t Bellingham’s effort; he consistently gives his all. The issue lies with Ancelotti’s deployment of the player. Bellingham isn’t playing in the positions that best suit his strengths, leading to unnecessary exertion. Real Madrid cannot afford to waste Bellingham’s talent. He should be utilized in central or left midfield, positions where he previously excelled. Bellingham wants to return to his optimal role, and Real Madrid needs him more than ever.

Urgent call: Florentino Pérez intervenes to avert fallout between Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior

Urgent call: Florentino Pérez intervenes to avert fallout between Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior - World Soccer Talk

destacadas

Rodri is a top target for Real Madrid, who aim to continue assembling a star-studded squad. The club now wants to add the Manchester City midfielder who recently won the Ballon d’Or.



According to DefensaCntral, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-madrid/">Real Madrid</a> president Florentino Pérez envisions a team brimming with superstars, and Rodri is the latest target, following the arrival of Kylian Mbappé this season. However, securing the Spanish midfielder from Manchester City would require Real Madrid to raise €130 million (his release clause).



To fund the transfer, Florentino Pérez reportedly plans to sell Aurélien Tchouaméni. Several clubs have already expressed interest in the 24-year-old Frenchman.



Tchouaméni joined Real Madrid from Monaco in 2022 for a hefty €80 million. Just over two years later, his time at the Bernabéu appears to be ending. His current market value is around €100 million, meaning Real Madrid could generate substantial funds from his sale.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241103_WST_538256_Tchoameni-1200x675_0480c843.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-538258" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Tchoameni-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Tchoameni-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Tchoameni-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Tchoameni-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Tchoameni-740x416.jpg 740w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Tchoameni-490x275.jpg 490w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Tchoameni-250x140.jpg 250w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Tchoameni.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Liverpool is one of the most interested clubs, having almost signed Tchouaméni in 2022 before his move to Real Madrid. Another interested party is Arsenal, though their interest is less significant than Liverpool’s. 



With the club having passed on Martín Zubimendi last summer and Rodri potentially joining Carlo Ancelotti’s squad, Tchouaméni’s departure to Liverpool seems increasingly likely.



<h2>Rodri: Close to the Bernabéu?</h2>



While the disappointment over Vinicius Jr. not winning the Ballon d’Or lingers, Real Madrid is already strategizing to sign Rodri. The Manchester City midfielder’s recent success with Spain at the Euros is not the only factor; Real Madrid also needs to fill the void left by Toni Kroos’s retirement.



While Manchester City will likely be reluctant to sell Rodri, who is currently recovering from a serious knee injury, the pursuit underscores the club’s need for midfield reinforcements.


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<h2>The Enzo Fernández option</h2>



Another player linked to filling Kroos’s spot is Enzo Fernández. He’s recently clashed with Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, losing the captaincy and being benched on multiple occasions.



Real Madrid, willing to offload Tchouaméni, could offer up to €100 million for Fernández, who shone with Argentina during their World Cup triumph in Qatar.

Florentino Perez reportedly plans Real Madrid sale to bring Ballon d'Or winner Rodri to the Bernabeu

Florentino Perez reportedly plans Real Madrid sale to bring Ballon d'Or winner Rodri to the Bernabeu - World Soccer Talk

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/mls/">Major League Soccer</a>‘s FC Cincinnati is reportedly pursuing Colombian striker Miguel Borja from River Plate for their 2025 roster. Rumors suggest that River Plate manager Marcelo Gallardo won’t retain Borja’s services for the upcoming season.



Borja’s career is marked by periods of prolific goal-scoring. He enjoyed significant success at Junior of Barranquilla, Atlético Nacional (where he played a key role in their 2016 Copa Libertadores championship victory), and Palmeiras. 



However, his recent performance at River Plate has caused some discontent among the club’s fans. Despite this, Borja was among the team’s top performers in the first half of the year, leading the team in goals scored. 



Since joining River Plate in 2022, Borja has scored 52 goals in 104 appearances – a goal roughly every two games. His contract stipulates a significant reduction in his release clause at the end of 2024, dropping from $8 million USD to $4 million USD as of January 1, 2025.



Previously, MLS teams like Austin FC have also expressed interest in the River Plate forward.



<h2>What could Borja bring to FC Cincinnati?</h2>



Borja possesses a valuable combination of physicality, technical skill, and goal-scoring instinct – qualities highly sought after in MLS. However, adapting to a new league always presents challenges. 



At Cincinnati, he could join other South American players like Luca Orellano, Luciano Acosta, Yamil Asad (Argentina), Sergio Santos (Brazil), and Kevin Kelsy (Venezuela), potentially easing his integration. 



The addition of a player of Borja’s caliber to Cincinnati’s attack, currently featuring players like Luciano Acosta, Luca Orellano, and Sergio Santos, could be very well-received by the coaching staff. His arrival would likely strengthen a forward line needing more punch to reach the highest levels of the league.


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<h2>Borja’s situation at River Plate: End of an era?</h2>



River Plate manager Marcelo Gallardo left Borja out of the starting lineup in the team’s last domestic league match due to a recent goal drought. Gallardo explained the decision, stating he needed “another alternative,” adding that the time away had been beneficial for the player.



<h2>Cincinnati’s current situation in the MLS Playoffs: A crucial context</h2>



The Eastern Conference’s FC Cincinnati, currently in a playoff series against New York City FC, features Argentine star Luciano Acosta (2023 MLS MVP). 



After winning the first game 1-0, they lost the second game 3-1, forcing a decisive third game at TQL Stadium, where Cincinnati will have home-field advantage. The outcome of this series could significantly influence the club’s decision to sign a player of Borja’s caliber.

FC Cincinnati pursuing Copa Libertadores champion and River Plate striker Miguel Borja

FC Cincinnati pursuing Copa Libertadores champion and River Plate striker Miguel Borja - World Soccer Talk

Leroy Sané is at the center of much speculation surrounding Bayern Munich. The dynamic winger, alongside Alphonso Davies and Joshua Kimmich, is out of contract on June 30, 2025, making him free to negotiate with any interested club on a free transfer starting this January. 



This situation has sparked significant interest, particularly from the Premier League, where Sané already boasts a highly successful track record. While Sané reportedly prefers to remain in Bavaria, his substantial salary could complicate matters. The coming months will be crucial in determining his future.



Meanwhile, several clubs are closely monitoring the situation. According to Bild, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has made the former Manchester City player a top priority should Sané not renew his contract with Bayern. This interest is hardly surprising, given Sané’s proven Premier League pedigree and the potential for a cost-effective transfer.


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<h2>A successful Premier League stint: A valuable asset</h2>



Sané’s previous spell in English soccer saw him join Manchester City in 2016 on a five-year deal for a then-record fee of €45 million for a German player. His time at City was highly successful, culminating in him being named the PFA Young Player of the Year in the 2017-18 season.



In 135 appearances for the club, he scored 39 goals and provided 42 assists, contributing significantly to City’s domestic dominance. His trophy cabinet from his time in Manchester includes three League Cups, two Premier League titles, two Community Shields, and one FA Cup.



This experience of playing at the highest level in England significantly enhances his appeal to Premier League clubs now considering a move.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="785" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241103_WST_538287_GettyImages-1072225120-1200x785_cc0d279b.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=785" alt="" class="wp-image-538297" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/GettyImages-1072225120-1200x785.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/GettyImages-1072225120-300x196.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/GettyImages-1072225120-768x502.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/GettyImages-1072225120-1536x1005.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/GettyImages-1072225120-2048x1339.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Confirmed interest from Arsenal?</h2>



Mike Brown, a former scout for Manchester United, Tottenham, and West Ham, confirmed Arsenal’s serious interest in Sané. He stated:



“Arsenal are very interested in him, from what I understand. Sané can play on the left and provide cover for Bukayo Saka, which is a significant need for the team right now. Arsenal aren’t the only club interested in him, but they’ve certainly been working on this transfer for some time.”



Brown also highlighted key qualities that could make Sané a valuable asset for Mikel Arteta’s side:



“He’s incredibly effective, has explosive pace, and he’s only 28; he’s in the prime of his career right now. I’ve always wondered why Manchester City let him go and why no English club tried to sign him before he joined Bayern. But with his contract situation, I expect a transfer. He’ll not only add quality to the Arsenal squad but also bring winning experience, which is important for a club of this level,” Brown told TMW.

Premier League giant ready to sign Sané on a free transfer

Premier League giant ready to sign Sané on a free transfer - World Soccer Talk

Dani Olmo‘s arrival at Barcelona was the talk of last summer’s transfer window. The debate raged: Nico Williams or Dani Olmo? Many favored Williams due to his strong relationship with Lamine Yamal, but ultimately, the club’s sporting director and Hansi Flick opted for the then-Leipzig player. Six games into his Barcelona career, that decision looks like a masterstroke.



Against Espanyol, making his return to the starting eleven after a month-long injury layoff, Olmo delivered another exceptional performance, scoring two goals. “Olmo is an excellent player who can score goals between the lines – that’s what we want,” said Flick before the game. His goal-scoring ability, previously unseen at his previous clubs, has been a revelation. He now has five goals in six games for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/">Barcelona</a>.



Every match showcases Olmo’s exceptional talent. While Lamine Yamal’s rise to global stardom is undeniable, Olmo’s contributions are equally impressive. Olmo’s first goal was set up by a stunning outside-of-the-foot pass from Yamal, while an earlier backheel pass to Fort, though ultimately unsuccessful, further highlighted their on-field chemistry. Each game offers spectacular moments for the fans.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241103_WST_538265_Barcelona-1200x675_33f851d4.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-538276" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Barcelona-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Barcelona-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Barcelona-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Barcelona-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Barcelona-740x416.jpg 740w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Barcelona-490x275.jpg 490w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Barcelona-250x140.jpg 250w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Barcelona.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Barcelona’s 3-1 victory against Espanyol</h2>



Oriol Romeu is solidifying his place in the starting eleven, his contributions proving fundamental. His pressing forces turnovers, strengthens the midfield, and disrupts the opposition’s attacks. 



He also displayed impressive assist-making ability, providing a key pass for Raphinha’s second goal, mirroring a similar assist to Lewandowski earlier in the week. His substitution was noticeable, and dislodging him from the starting lineup will be a challenge.


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Barcelona’s exceptional offside trap continues to be a key defensive weapon, frustrating opponents throughout the league. Espanyol had two goals disallowed by VAR (Jofre and Tejero), adding to the nine goals already ruled out for Barcelona’s opponents this season.



Barcelona’s performance dipped noticeably in the second half. After a dominant first half (3-0), their intensity waned, allowing Espanyol (under Manolo González) to reduce the deficit and have two further goals disallowed. This drop-off in performance will surely have concerned Flick.



<h2>Upcoming matches for Barcelona</h2>



Barcelona will next travel to Serbia to face Red Star Belgrade in the UEFA Champions League group stage on Wednesday, aiming for their third win. They then face Real Sociedad away in La Liga on Sunday before a break for the upcoming FIFA international window. They will return to action hosting Celta de Vigo.


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Injury can't stop Dani Olmo: 5 goals in 6 games for Barcelona

Injury can't stop Dani Olmo: 5 goals in 6 games for Barcelona - World Soccer Talk

Francisco Quatrin is a bilingual journalist fluent in English and Spanish, with expertise in sports, electric mobility, and political communication. With over six years of experience, he contributes to World Soccer Talk and LT29 Radio Venado Tuerto. In 2022, he produced the culturally acclaimed documentary "Nos Conocemos de Toda la Vida" for the province of Santa Fe and was awarded the AUVE Prize for Best Coverage of Electric Mobility in 2023. Known for his timely insights and engaging reporting, Francisco excels in connecting with audiences by covering pivotal developments in his fields of expertise.

francisco quatrin

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Injury can't stop Dani Olmo: 5 goals in 6 games for Barcelona