Real Madrid round-up: Carvajal, FIFA virus, Hazard, Kroos...
International games are upon us but there's always news around the Bernabéu club, and we're here to give you a taste of it...
While much of the attention this week moves into the realm of international football, there are always eyes on the goings-on at Real Madrid. We take a quick butchers at some of the activity in the Spanish capital...
FIFA virus concerns
With 14 players away from the watchful eye of Julen Lopetegui, there are always concerns that injuries could be picked up ahead of some key games for Madrid. Courtois, Keylor, Ramos, Nacho, Ceballos, Asensio, Varane, Vallejo, Casemiro, Vinicius, Modric, Kroos, Bale and Valverde will all travel with their respective national teams over the coming days. Collective fingers will be crossed that there are no more injuries to a side already under pressure.
The remaining players will go through their paces in the capital on Wednesday and Thursday before having the full weekend off.
Premier dreams for Carvajal
Speaking to Líbero magazine, the Spanish full-back Dani Carvajal revealed that he still has ambitions to feature in the English Premier League before retiring from football.
"I do think about it," he responded when asked about leaving LaLiga. "I would really like to experience the Premier League, but we'll see," he further teased.
Hazard ahead: January bargain hunting
Reports in Spain say that the upcoming winter transfer window is being prepared by the Madrid hierarchy as the time to bring in Chelsea's Belgian star, Eden Hazard. Spanish media outlet SER say that the recent comments from the forward about playing for Los Blancos being a dream are all part of an overall strategy to make the move to LaLiga smoother, and with his contract moving closer to its final year, a significant saving may be available for Pérez.
Kroos in control
Madrid's German star, like the rest of his teammates, has clearly been disappointed with his side's latest run of results and took to social media to share his concerns but, more importantly, his optimism.
Long distance Madridistas
Out of all those Madrid players away for international duty, Keylor, Vinicius and Valverde will be going the furthest in terms of distance. The Costa Rican goalkeeper will cover around 17,000 km while the other two youngsters (away with the Uruguayan and Brazil U-20 teams respectively) will cover the most ground, and sea, at 21,000 km.