Real Madrid news: Marcelo, Kroos, Solari...
Today's Real Madrid tidbits feature praise for Toni Kroos, a milestone for Marcelo and former boss Santiago Solari's Premier League plans.
Back to work at Valdebebas
After being given the weekend off by head coach Zinedine Zidane, Real Madrid's non-internationals return to training at the club's Valdebebas sports complex on Monday evening, with the session set to get underway at 17:00 CET.
Solari's Premier passion
Former Madrid boss Santiago Solari, who has now returned to the LaLiga giants in an ambassadorial role, has spoken of his desire to take charge of a club in the Premier League in the future. "I'd love to coach in England," Solari told the Daily Mail. "I watch a lot of Premier League football. It's a top league enjoying a great moment in its history. There are many amazing players and some of the best coaches."
Kroos gets Jogi love
In-form Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has been singled out for praise by Germany head coach Joachin Löw after he netted twice and supplied an assist in Die Mannschaft's 4-0 win over Belarus in Euro 2020 qualifying on Saturday. "He always steps up," Löw said, "even when the chips are down. He's an example for others to follow." Having booked their place at next summer's finals courtesy of the rout in Mönchengladbach, the Germans can make sure of top spot in Group C with victory over Northern Ireland in Frankfurt on Tuesday.
Marcelo marks Madrid milestone
Having celebrated 13 years as a Real Madrid player on Friday, Marcelo has looked back over his career at the Bernabéu, which has brought 494 appearances, 36 goals and a medal hauling including four LaLigas, four Champions Leagues, two Copas del Rey and four Club World Cups. "It [being at Madrid] was a dream come true then - and still is. You wake up with a smile on your face every day; it's the best job in the world."
13 years without Puskas
Sunday was the 13th anniversary of the death of legendary Hungarian forward Ferenc Puskas, who won three European Cups in an eight-year spell at Real Madrid. In 262 games for Los Blancos between 1958 and 1966, the 'Galloping Major' scored 242 goals and, in addition to helping Los Blancos to a trio of continental crowns, also won five LaLigas, one Copa and one Intercontinental Cup.