Real Madrid round-up: Achraf, Levante, Bale, Vázquez, FIFA
Another look at the news surrounding the Bernabéu club as we enter the final stage of international commitments for the players...
The international break is almost over so attention will again return to the club's matters in hand. Here is some of the news going on around the Santiago Bernabéu...
Achraf starring in Bundesliga
On-loan Real Madrid youngster Achraf Hakimi has been shining for Borussia Dortmund as he looks to build his experience away from the Bernabéu. The Moroccan has been voted as the best debutant in the first month of the Bundesliga season coming out ahead of Florian Neuhaus (Borussia Mönchengladbach) and Javairo Dilrosun (Hertha Berlin). Despite only playing in two of the four games during this early period, his goal against Nuremburg and an assist against Bayer Leverkusen were enough to convince voters.
Levante whistler decided
Following the international break, Real Madrid will return to LaLiga action against Levante. Many see this as a must-win game for the already pressured Julen Lopetegui and the man in the middle to keep everything in check has been confirmed as Guillermo Cuadra Fernández. In the VAR box will be José Luis González González. Kick off is 13:00 CEST.
Vázquez time off
Los Blancos winger Lucas Vázquez had the weekend off while others were representing their countries and took advantage of that time in fine fashion. A trip to the Louvre in romantic Paris was his destination, accompanied by his wife and young child. Unconfirmed reports state that he was too fast for even the Mona Lisa to keep a gaze on during the visit!
Bale in Premier demand
Reports in English media suggest that Gareth Bale is once again on the shopping list of some of the biggest clubs. Both Manchester United and Chelsea have been in contact with the Welshman's associates, according to the Sunday Express.
Threat of FIFA virus almost over
As with all club managers, the threat of key players being injured on international duty is a concern that Lopetegui has to deal with. Thankfully for him, there are only a few games to go until he can put his own arm around them in the comfort of the Spanish capital. Those who still have a chance of playing for their country are: casemiro, varane, Kroos, Courtois, Keylor, valverde and Vallejo.
Bale mystery continues
And talking of injuries, one of the narratives that has run over the past week has been the fitness, or otherwise, of Gareth Bale. The Welshman has returned to the Madrid fold without playing a single minute for Wales but on Tuesday trained alone, with no details yet of his likelihood of playing on Saturday. With El Clásico less than a fortnight away, Madridistas will have their fingers crossed for good news soon.