Real Madrid were left concerned despite a dramatic 2-1 La Liga win over Rayo Vallecano after Jude Bellingham was forced off injured just ten minutes into the match, with coach Alvaro Arbeloa admitting the midfielder's absence is a major blow.
The Champions League knockout play-off draw has produced several high-profile clashes, with Newcastle United facing a demanding trip to Azerbaijan and Real Madrid set for a dramatic reunion with Jose Mourinho's Benfica.
Rodrygo Goes has moved quickly to apologise to Real Madrid supporters after his late red card capped a difficult Wednesday night for the Spanish giants in a 4-2 defeat to Benfica at the Estadio da Luz.
Kylian Mbappe has criticised Real Madrid after scoring both of their goals in a damaging 4-2 defeat to Benfica in Lisbon that dropped the Spanish giants into the Champions League play-off round for a second straight season.
Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa has hailed Jude Bellingham as a "leader" and a "cornerstone" for the club's future, praising the midfielder's commitment, talent, and influence on and off the pitch.
Franco Mastantuono has said the confidence shown in him by new Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa has been key to his recent return to form, after the teenager enjoyed a strong run of games and goals in recent weeks.