Mourinho return imminent
Multiple sources are reporting that José Mourinho's return to the Real Madrid bench is all but done. Bernabéu Digital claim an agreement is already in place (6), while French outlet RMC Sport says Madrid press are reporting it as "99.9%" certain (11). Brazilian outlet ge.globo also report the deal is being finalised (3). This would be a stunning comeback. Mourinho led Madrid from 2010 to 2013, winning La Liga and breaking Barcelona's stranglehold. Now, after a trophyless season, the club looks set to turn back to him.
Pérez hijacks the news cycle
Just as Barcelona celebrated winning La Liga and the Supercopa, Florentino Pérez held a press conference that shifted all attention toward Madrid (4). The timing was no accident. With your rivals lifting two trophies and Madrid ending the season empty-handed, Pérez stepped into the spotlight. The move has drawn criticism but it is classic Pérez: controlling the narrative when the football alone cannot.
Mourinho wants Rashford at Madrid
The rumour mill is already spinning on Mourinho's transfer plans. Reports suggest the Portuguese wants to reunite with Marcus Rashford at the Bernabéu (8). Barcelona are also reportedly in the picture, which would only add fuel to the rivalry. Nothing is confirmed yet, but the Mourinho-Rashford link gives you an early glimpse of the kind of ambition this new project might carry.
Madrid beat Oviedo 2–0, Arbeloa gets key boost
Real Madrid beat Real Oviedo 2–0 at the Bernabéu with goals from Gonzalo García and Jude Bellingham (10). Beyond the result, Álvaro Arbeloa recovered a key player ahead of the trip to face Sevilla at the Pizjuán. A solid win and good timing on the fitness front.
Konaté targeted after Militão injury
Madrid are accelerating their search for a centre-back following Éder Militão's injury, with Liverpool's Ibrahima Konaté named as the primary target (5). The urgency is real. With the new manager expected imminently, the club wants to move fast on defensive reinforcements.
Rodrygo on the mend
Rodrygo has taken a step forward in his recovery, walking on an anti-gravity treadmill as he works his way back (1). No return date yet, but progress is progress. You need every attacker fit when Mourinho walks through the door.
Real Madrid C fight for survival
Real Madrid's C team faces a decisive relegation playoff second leg against CD Estepona after the first leg ended 2–2 (7). Víctor Cea's side are fighting for their place in the Segunda Federación. The return leg will decide whether they stay up or go down.