Real Madrid round-up: Modric, Roma, Vinicius...
Our daily roundup of news surrounding the team as the US tour reaches its conclusion. Los Blancos return home on a high note after beating Roma.
Lopetegui feels sure Modric will stay
Julen Lopetegui spoke after Tuesday's win over Roma in New Jersey and once again was asked about Luka Modric's future. The coach replied that he has spoken to the player and pointed out that Modric has always been very happy at Real Madrid and cannot see why that would change now. "It's a question I have already answered in a previous press conference. And the president has been very clear on the subject. Modric will continue to be happy, as ahe has been up until now and he is going to play as superbly as he always has. My conversations with players remain private but of course I speak to them when I need to. The impression I get is that Luka is very happy here".
Impressed with Vinicius
The coach also said he has been delighted with what he has seen so far of Vinicius: "Vini is full of enthusiasm and he's heading in the right direction. He is very self confident about his own abilities. We'll be closely following his progression and trying not to stifle his development. The club's taken a chance on him and we like what we see".
Absentees in the final training session in the US
Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema both retired early from the final training session on American soil before the squad returns to Spain. Both complained of twinges and withdrew for precaution but were able to take part in the International Champions Cup game against Roma. Benzema played 56 minutes and was replaced by Borja Mayoral while Kroos played the first half and made way for Marcos Llorente at the break.
Assets increase
Despite Cristiano Ronaldo's recent departure, Real Madrid squad hasn't depreciated in value - according to Transfermarkt, it is actually increased. The Madrid squad's market value is currently 4.8 million euros more than it was this time last year.