Valverde: the decision is made
Florentino Pérez has already chosen what happens with Fede Valverde. That's according to a report out Wednesday, though the exact nature of the decision isn't public yet (2). Whatever it is, it's final. Valverde has been one of your most important players, if this is about a contract renewal, it's great news. If it's about a departure, it's the kind of call that defines a presidency.
New kit drops, and your dog gets one too
Real Madrid unveiled the new home kit for next season, and there's a twist: a matching version for dogs (1). No details yet on design or release date, but it's the kind of thing that'll sell out instantly.
Election board steps in
The Real Madrid Electoral Board issued a formal statement to both Florentino Pérez and challenger Enrique Riquelme regarding the vote-by-mail withdrawal process (3). The elections are the biggest story around the club right now. Riquelme has been making bold promises, including legal guarantees to deliver a marquee signing if elected.
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Mourinho linked with clear-out
Reports suggest José Mourinho has already submitted a list of players he does not count on should he take over: Raúl Asencio, Fran García, Dani Ceballos, Eduardo Camavinga, Franco Mastantuono, and Rodrygo (4). Separately, Calafiori has been named as a defensive target Mourinho wants the club to explore (5). It's all rumor-level stuff, but the volume of noise around Mourinho and the presidency makes it hard to ignore.
Liverpool win the race, Madrid miss out
Liverpool beat Manchester United, City, Chelsea, and Real Madrid to the signing of a winger, with the deal now officially confirmed (6). No name or fee disclosed, but it's a reminder that even Madrid don't win every market battle.
Carvalho recalls that 4–2, backs Mourinho
Former Benfica presidential candidate Cristóvão Carvalho reminisced about Benfica's 4–2 win over Real Madrid and publicly pledged support for Mourinho's successor at the Portuguese club: "We can and should wish the greatest success to Mourinho" (7).
Fan reactions
The Mourinho chatter has the fanbase split right down the middle. Some see the reported exit list, Camavinga, Rodrygo, Mastantuono among them, and worry it's the same old chaos with a new face. Others are bracing for tactical teething problems, with one fan bluntly stating the pressing system needs an overhaul or "we aren't going to survive." Full debate here.
