Sport
Alonso Says He Benched Vinicius to Keep Him Fresh and Ready for the Long Season
Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has revealed why he decided to keep Vinicius Junior on the bench in their 2-1 Champions League win over Marseille on Tuesday night.
Alonso went with Rodrygo in the starting lineup ahead of his fellow Brazilian, leaving Vinicius to make his impact later in the game when he came on in the second half.
Despite Marseille’s push, two penalties from Kylian Mbappe sealed the victory for Los Blancos at the Bernabeu.
When asked about his decision to bench Vinicius, Alonso explained that it was all about managing the squad during a busy period. He stressed the importance of every player feeling valued, saying the season is long and everyone will have their chance to step up.
Chelsea player Enzo Fernández is in discussions to join Manchester City. This information was revealed by Fabrizio Romano, who shared that the two clubs are discussing a potential deal.
He wrote: “Enzo Fernández has a verbal agreement with Manchester City on personal terms.
“Deal depends on club-to-club decision, as #MCFC have not sent an official bid yet, but contacts will take place soon; decision on price is up to Chelsea.
“Enzo could be out again this weekend.”
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca mentions his captains for the team. He mentions Rúben Dias and Erling Haaland.
He shared “We have experienced players. For sure, we have leaders. Now we need to wait four or five more days until the transfer window closes to see if we can add one or two more captains to Ruben [Dias] and Erling , who at the moment are the two captains.”
Maresca confirmed the pair as part of his leadership group ahead of the 2026/27 season, with two more captains expected to be selected after the transfer window closes.
Chelsea manager speaks on the team and shares thoughts on considering a change in goalkeepers, giving another goalkeeper, Mike Penders, a chance.
“Penders is part of the squad, so he has an opportunity. We will decide and then I am giving the team tomorrow to the players, so I prefer to respect that they know first.”
“Fighting for Nigerians Is Tiring” — VeryDarkMan Recalls Burna Boy’s Words
Enzo Fernández Moves Closer to Manchester City Transfer
