In a public statement, Real Madrid expressed the following, “Real Madrid C.F., its president, and its Board of Directors deeply regret the passing of Jorge Messi, father of Leo Messi. Our club wishes to express its condolences to Leo, his family, and all his loved ones. May he rest in peace.”

During the World Cup, it was reported that Jorge Messi was dealing with some sort of health issues. Given how much Messi means to the soccer world, teams like Barcelona, where he is the biggest legend, and Real Madrid, who had many battles on the pitch with him, are sending heartfelt messages to him.

Barcelona also made a statement. “The President and the Board of Directors of FC Barcelona express their deepest condolences on the passing of Jorge Messi, father of former Barca player and legend Lionel Messi, and, on the behalf of the entire Barca family. FC Barcelona thanks Jorge Messi for his commitment to our Club, for entrusting us with the beginnings and the most glorious years of his son Leo’s football career. May he rest in peace.”

Real Madrid set their differences with Messi aside

There’s a saying that goes “soccer is the most important thing of the lesser things.” Real Madrid proved that. Soccer-wise, there is no love between Madrid and Messi, as the Argentine punished Madrid for years on the pitch. However, there are things bigger than soccer.

Barcelona focused on Jorge’s sacrifices

Messi arrived at Barcelona at a mere young age of 13. For a parent, and taking into consideration that Messi needed treatment to have a normal growth, it was not an easy decision to let him go.

As Barca said it, Jorge entrusted them with Messi and it’s safe to say that it all paid off. However, it required bravery and almost blind faith on the team to make a decision. Jorge, who always had Lionel’s best interest in mind, had to let him go, but it showed to be the right decision.

How to watch Real Madrid vs Fiorentina in the USA

Fans in the United States can watch Real Madrid vs Fiorentina live on FOX Deportes, which will provide television coverage of the preseason friendly. For those who prefer to stream the game, it will be available on Fubo and FOX One.

Can I watch Real Madrid vs Fiorentina for free?

Fubo‘s five-day free trial is an option to watch Real Madrid vs Fiorentina for free in the United States. The streaming service includes FOX Deportes in its lineup and offers a free trial for new eligible subscribers.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Real Madrid continue an increasingly demanding preseason schedule with their first international friendly of the summer, facing Fiorentina in Klagenfurt after opening preparations with matches against Alcorcon and Leganes.

The Spanish giants have also confirmed additional friendlies against Ferencvaros, Deportivo La Coruña and Schalke 04, making this clash an important step as Jose Mourinho continues to shape his squad before the start of the 2026-27 season.

Although the result will not count toward any competition, the match carries significant value. Mourinho has used the opening weeks of preseason to introduce his tactical ideas, including a return to his preferred 4-2-3-1 system.

For Fiorentina, it represents one of the marquee fixtures of its preseason calendar. Facing a club of Real Madrid’s caliber provides an opportunity to test the Viola against elite opposition before the Serie A campaign gets underway.

The Italian side will look to measure its defensive organization and attacking cohesion against one of Europe’s strongest squads while continuing to increase players’ match sharpness after the offseason.

Real Madrid vs Fiorentina: Predicted Lineups

Real Madrid (4-2-3-1): Andriy Lunin; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ibrahima Konate, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella; Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga; Bernardo Silva, Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior; Kylian Mbappe.

Fiorentina (3-5-2): David de Gea; Marin Pongracic, Pablo Mari, Luca Ranieri; Dodo, Nicolo Fagioli, Rolando Mandragora, Cher Ndour, Robin Gosens; Albert Guomundsson, Moise Kean.

What time is the Real Madrid vs Fiorentina match?

The Real Madrid vs Fiorentina preseason friendly kicks off on Saturday, August 1, at 12:00 PM ET. The match is scheduled for 6:00 PM CEST at Worthersee Stadion in Klagenfurt, Austria.

Eastern Time (ET): 12:00 PM
Central Time (CT): 11:00 AM
Mountain Time (MT): 10:00 AM
Pacific Time (PT): 9:00 AM

His revealing comments came during an appearance on the Obi One podcast back on November 27, 2025. Sitting down with former midfielder John Obi Mikel, Carlos offered a unique inside perspective on their famous dressing room. The discussion highlighted how the squad viewed each other beyond the massive public hype surrounding Real Madrid.

Addressing who was truly the best, Carlos emphasized that “during those Galactico years Beckham was the most consistent“ player in Madrid. He explained that while others grabbed headlines, Beckham was “the player who did everything for the team.”

What the Real Madrid fans missed

Expanding further on Beckham’s daily impact, Carlos praised his former teammate’s unbelievable work ethic during both training sessions and matches. He explained that the English international was always willing to drop back, track down opponents, and handle gritty defensive duties without complaint.

In Carlos’s eyes, Beckham’s true value came from his commitment to the collective effort rather than personal glory. “Beckham didn’t play for the fans. He played for Real Madrid,” Carlos stated during the interview. He added that Beckham “always put the team first,” which defined him as a genuinely complete player.

The Galacticos era right now

The term “Galacticos” is most famous for describing Florentino Perez’s initial presidency from 2000 to 2006, when superstar signings arrived every summer. However, history shows there was not just one single Galactico era in Madrid. A second booming period took place between 2009 and 2018, defined by the arrivals of Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, and Gareth Bale.

In fact, a third Galactico era has been actively running since around 2018. This modern chapter shifts focus toward securing elite young talents like Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham alongside massive blockbuster arrivals. It proves that Real Madrid’s superstar culture remains alive and evolving today.

However, according to football insider Fabrizio Romano, Perez is personally vetoing any potential deal for the Manchester City star. “I’m being told that Florentino Perez is personally blocking Rodri’s move to Real Madrid. He is shutting the door. Rodri genuinely dreams of joining, but Perez does not want him,“ Romano reported on X.

It is a stunning stance considering Rodri was just awarded the Golden Ball as the 2026 World Cup’s best player over Lionel Messi, making it surprising that one of global soccer’s most prominent executives would pass on him.

By claiming the tournament’s top individual honor, Rodri joined an elite group of World Cup legends—a list that notably excludes Cristiano Ronaldo—further cementing his status as one of the premier midfielders of his generation.

Rodri’s past could be the issue

Despite his individual brilliance in anchoring Spain’s World Cup run, Rodri’s past ties to cross-town rival Atletico Madrid could be the ultimate dealbreaker. Given the fierce, deeply rooted rivalry between the two Madrid clubs, Perez may view signing a former Colchonero as a move that wouldn’t sit well with the Real Madrid faithful.

Still, intrigue surrounds Rodri’s club future following his dominant 2026 World Cup performance. Coming off a Ballon d’Or-winning campaign and stellar domestic form with Manchester City, he remains one of the most coveted figures on the global transfer market.

Rodri’s performance in the 2026 World Cup

Regardless of Perez’s reported disinterest, Rodri proved during the tournament that he has the quality to transform any midfield in world football. Here is a closer look at his standout performance on international soccer’s biggest stage:

• Matches played: 8
• Minutes played: 726′
• Goals / Assists: 0 / 0
• Expected assists (xA): 1.09
• Passes completed / Attempted: 756 / 811 (1st in tournament)
• Passing accuracy: 93.2%
• Passes completed in final third: 204 (1st in tournament)
• Touches: 910 (1st in tournament)
• Tackles: 26 (1st in tournament)
• High-intensity runs: 919 (1st in tournament)

“Real Madrid and England are lucky to have Jude Bellingham, and everyone wants Jude Bellingham on their team. He’s one of the best players in the world,” Haaland told reporters in the mixed zone after the final whistle.

The high praise underscores the immense respect Haaland holds for his former club teammate. Such glowing endorsements, coupled with Bellingham‘s lethal form in North America—including a historic milestone that saw him surpass French icon Zinedine Zidane’s World Cup goal tally—have solidified the midfielder’s status as a generational superstar.

While Haaland was held off the scoresheet today, his tournament run remains spectacular, concluding his 2026 World Cup campaign with seven goals. That clinical output places him in elite company, trailing only tournament top-scorers Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi.

Bellingham brushes off coaching criticism after MVP performance

After taking home Man of the Match honors, Bellingham faced the media and was immediately asked about England manager Thomas Tuchel’s critical post-match remarks regarding the Three Lions’ sluggish overall performance against Norway.

Bellingham offered a visibly indifferent, “whatever” response to the critique, a reaction that is bound to fuel speculation about potential friction between Tuchel and his locker room, despite England ultimately securing the victory in extra time.

The drama caps off a chaotic, high-stakes match where FIFA was forced to issue a statement addressing the validity of England’s first goal. Unbothered by the noise, Bellingham followed up his controversial first-half equalizer by delivering the game-winner to complete his brace early in extra time.

The decision comes after a difficult first season in Spain. Real Madrid invested more than $73 million to sign Mastantuono, viewing him as one of the club’s future stars. However, inconsistent performances, limited playing time, and fierce competition for minutes prevented him from establishing himself as a regular starter. By the end of the campaign, he had made 35 appearances while contributing three goals, but his development didn’t progress as quickly as many expected.

While Mastantuono remained part of Argentina’s broader player pool, he struggled to make a significant impact in his opportunities with the national team. He appeared in several World Cup qualifiers and friendly matches but was unable to convince Scaloni that he was ready for a major role at the tournament, especially with Argentina aiming to defend the title won in Qatar in 2022. Argentina, instead, will include a couple of players born abroad.

Why did Argentina leave Franco Mastantuono off the World Cup squad?

The main reason for Mastantuono’s omission was the combination of limited playing time and inconsistent performances during the 2025-26 season. Although his talent has never been questioned, Scaloni prioritized players who entered the World Cup in stronger form and with more established roles at club level.

Argentina’s coaching staff also benefited from increased competition in attacking and creative positions. Players such as Giuliano Simeone and Nico Paz continued their development and moved ahead of Mastantuono in the pecking order, making it more difficult for the Real Madrid youngster to earn a place among the final 26 players. Angel Di Maria isn’t playing at the 2026 World Cup either, but in his case, it was a personal decision.

Did his move to Real Madrid affect his World Cup chances?

While joining Real Madrid didn’t directly cost Mastantuono a place on the roster, his first season in Spain did not unfold as planned. The pressure that accompanied his transfer, combined with difficulties adapting to European soccer, limited his opportunities to showcase the form that made him one of South America’s most exciting prospects at River Plate. Paulo Dybala, however, was also snubbed by Argentina despite his experience and presence in Europe.

At just 18 years old, however, Mastantuono remains one of Argentina’s most promising young talents. Missing the 2026 World Cup is likely to be viewed as a setback rather than a defining moment, and many expect him to remain firmly in contention for future international tournaments, including the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

According to transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano, the Portuguese midfielder is nearing a move to Real Madrid, where he could become one of the first major additions of the new Jose Mourinho era after the tournament concludes.

Real Madrid has already confirmed Mourinho’s return as head coach through June 2029, with the Portuguese manager set to begin his second spell at the club on July 13. If Bernardo Silva arrives as expected, Mourinho would inherit one of the deepest and most talented squads in world soccer as he looks to restore Madrid to the top of European stage.

The potential addition of Silva would provide another elite creative option alongside stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and Federico Valverde. Known for his versatility, work rate, and technical quality, the Portugal international could quickly become a key piece in Mourinho’s plans for the 2026-27 season.

How could Bernardo Silva fit into Jose Mourinho’s system?

One of Silva’s greatest strengths is his ability to operate in multiple positions. Throughout his career, he has played as an attacking midfielder, central midfielder, winger, and even in deeper playmaking roles when required.

That versatility could make him an ideal fit for Mourinho, who has traditionally valued intelligent players capable of adapting to different tactical situations. Silva’s experience in high-pressure matches for both club and country would also bring additional leadership to a squad already filled with world-class talent.

Real Madrid’s projected lineup with Bernardo Silva

If the reported move is completed following the World Cup, Real Madrid could line up as follows: Thibaut Courtois; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Eder Militao, Antonio Rudiger, Alphonso Davies; Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, Bernardo Silva; Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe.

The depth behind that lineup would remain equally impressive, with Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Guler, Endrick, and Brahim Diaz providing Mourinho with multiple alternatives throughout the season.

As Portugal continue their World Cup journey with Cristiano Ronaldo leading the way, Real Madrid supporters will be closely monitoring Bernardo Silva’s future. If the deal is finalized, Mourinho could begin his second chapter at the Santiago Bernabeu with one of the strongest squads in Europe.

Through an official statement on their Instagram account, Real Madrid addressed the situation as follows: “Real Madrid C. F. announces that, following the meeting of the Board of Directors held today, it has made an offer of 150 million euros to Club Atletico de Madrid for the federative rights of the player Julian Alvarez.

“After reviewing and evaluating the offer, Club Atletico de Madrid has expressed its gratitude for the proposal, made within the framework of the good relations between both clubs, and has rejected it, referring to the player’s release clause.”

The player’s potential departure from Atletico Madrid would only be possible through his release clause. What is the value of this fee? €500 million, according to Marca.

Atletico Madrid’s sarcastic response

Real Madrid’s statement on the situation quickly prompted a response from their longtime rival. Through their official X account, Atletico Madrid reacted with a sarcastic message regarding the offer, even highlighting the fact that their city rivals were pursuing one of their players.

“1. You cut the video of the Pope where he said he was also an Atleti fan. You must have confused ethics with gratitude, but to leave no doubts: we don’t thank you for anything. We are not studying nor considering any offer for Julian. How could we [Madrid] not get along, when you make us laugh even more than Barcelona.”

The message concluded with a request directed at Los Blancos: “P.S. Taking advantage of the good relationship with your new president, let’s see if you stop ‘stealing’ players from our Academy. Thanks a lot, @realmadrid!”

The most expensive signings in Real Madrid history

Had Alvarez’s move to Real Madrid been completed, it would have comfortably surpassed the most expensive signing in the club’s history. Who currently holds that distinction? Jude Bellingham, who joined from Borussia Dortmund during the 2023–24 season for a total fee of €127 million.

Eden Hazard, who arrived from Chelsea, and Gareth Bale, signed from Tottenham, complete the podium. The Belgian joined for a fee of €120.8 million, while the Welsh forward was acquired for €101 million.

Real Madrid’s current signings

Real Madrid are executing a dramatic summer rebuild under the leadership of Florentino Perez, headlined by the blockbuster return of Jose Mourinho as manager. To reinforce the squad’s defensive spine, the club has already finalized major signings by securing right-back Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan and central defender Ibrahima Konate on a free transfer from Liverpool.

As for the attack, Mourinho might prioritize midfield reinforcements—including a creative playmaker and a defensive midfielder—and left-back depth rather than actively pursuing other positions, as he plans to build his offensive strategy around the existing elite star power of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.

Florentino Perez remains in Madrid

Florentino Perez has successfully secured his reelection as Real Madrid president, defeating challenger Enrique Riquelme by capturing 65% of the total votes in the club’s first contested election in nearly two decades. Following this decisive victory, the 79-year-old executive is set to extend his historic, trophy-laden leadership at the helm of the club until the year 2030.

As stated by TyC Sports, Franco Mastantuono won’t be a part of Argentina‘s 2026 World Cup roster. After all, Lionel Scaloni is the one deciding who to call. It seems like the left-footed winger didn’t do enough at Real Madrid this season to convince the Argentinian manager to include him.

Argentina have plenty of talent, so it wasn’t like Mastantuono was a sure-fire name. In fact, it’s one of the positions where Argentina have players with supreme skills. After a lackluster debut season for Madrid, Mastantuono will have to wait four more years to have the opportunity to play a World Cup.

Were Mastantuono’s numbers enough to consider him for the 2026 World Cup?

In the 2025-2026 season, Mastantuono played 35 games for Real Madrid across all competitions, starting 17 of those matches. However, the production was not great for the Argentinian. Mastantuono only scored three goals and provided zero assists for Madrid.

Given that players like Giuliano Simeone and Nico Gonzalez and the main man Lionel Messi all play right winger, it was an uphill battle for Mastantuono to make the final roster. After all, Simeone and Gonzalez had better seasons playing in LaLiga, facing the same opponents as Mastantuono.

Mastantuono will have plenty of chances in the future

Mastantuono was labeled as a gem from very early on in his career as he took the Argentinian league by storm as a mere teenager at River Plate. However, Mastantuono is just 18 years old. If nothing happens that hampers his career and he makes a comeback, Mastantuono could easily play in three World Cups by the age of 30.

Also, with how technology is evolving, players are taking leaps above expected longevity. It wouldn’t be shocking to see Mastantuono play a World Cup at 34 in 2042. For instance, Messi will play the 2026 World Cup at age 38. Messi is still regarded as one of the best players in soccer.

How to watch Real Madrid vs Athletic Club in the USA

Fans looking forward to this marquee matchup will have a simple way to follow all the live action. ESPN+ will provide exclusive streaming coverage, giving viewers convenient access to the game across a variety of compatible devices.

Those planning to watch online can tune in directly through the platform and enjoy every moment of this highly anticipated contest live.

Can I watch Real Madrid vs Athletic Club for free?

Soccer fans in the USA can tune into this exciting 2025/2026 La Liga matchup exclusively through ESPN+, the only platform carrying the broadcast in the country.

Unfortunately for viewers hoping to watch at no cost, ESPN+ does not currently provide a free trial, meaning this game will not be available to stream for free in the United States.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

What was expected to be a trophy-filled campaign for Real Madrid has instead turned into a major disappointment, as a star-studded squad led by Kylian Mbappe closes the 2025/26 season without silverware.

With the title race out of reach, Madrid’s focus now shifts to ending the year on a positive note and beginning preparations for the 2026/27 campaign. Standing in their way is Athletic Club, a side still fighting for a potential UEFA Conference League berth as they battle for seventh place in the standings.

Athletic enter this latest edition of “The Old Classic” knowing they need both a victory and help elsewhere to keep their European hopes alive, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown between two historic rivals.

Real Madrid vs Athletic Club: Predicted Lineups

Real Madrid (4-3-3): Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Rudiger, Huijsen, F Garcia; Valverde, Tchouameni, Bellingham; Brahim, Mbappe, Mastantuono.

Athletic Club (4-2-3-1): Simon; Gorosabel, Alvarez, Laporte, Boiro; Ruiz de Galarreta, Jauregizar; I Williams, Navarro, Berenguer; Guruzeta.

What time is the Real Madrid vs Athletic Club match?

The match kicks off today, May 23, at 3:00 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 3:00 PM
Central Time: 2:00 PM
Mountain Time: 1:00 PM
Pacific Time: 12:00 PM

How to watch Sevilla vs Real Madrid in the USA

Viewers eager to catch this highly anticipated showdown can tune in through several live viewing options. Among the top choices for sports audiences, Fubo continues to stand out by offering convenient access across a wide range of devices.

Those favoring digital platforms can also stream the action live on DirecTV Stream and ESPN+. For fans sticking with TV coverage, ESPN Deportes will carry the matchup on traditional TV as well.

Can I watch Sevilla vs Real Madrid for free?

USA supporters can stream this 2025/2026 La Liga encounter, along with other competition’s biggest games, live on Fubo.

With a 5-day free trial available, viewers have a great chance to enjoy this game and follow the excitement of the 2025/2026 La Liga.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

With little left to play for except pride and positioning, Real Madrid enter this rivalry matchup aiming to close out a disappointing 2025/26 campaign on a strong note after finishing the season without a major trophy, leaving Kylian Mbappe and the rest of the squad empty-handed.

On the other side, Sevilla FC still have plenty at stake as they continue battling near the bottom half of the table. While relegation is becoming less likely, Sevilla have not mathematically secured safety yet and remain within striking distance of the European qualification spots, sitting just two points away.

That combination makes this clash critical for the visitors, who are chasing a result that could both erase any remaining relegation concerns and keep their hopes of international competition alive heading into the final stretch of the season.

Sevilla vs Real Madrid: Predicted Lineups

Sevilla (4-4-2): Vlachodimos; Carmona, Castrin, Salas, Suazo; Vargas, Gudelj, Agoume, Oso; Adams, Maupay.

Real Madrid (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Huijsen, Rudiger, F Garcia; Pitarch, Tchouameni; Brahim, Bellingham, Vinicius; Mbappe.

What time is the Sevilla vs Real Madrid match?

The match kicks off today, May 17, at 1:00 PM ET. For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 1:00 PM
Central Time: 12:00 PM
Mountain Time: 11:00 AM
Pacific Time: 10:00 AM