Spain star who played every game at Euro 2024 asks to leave amid interest from Real Madrid: Reports
Al-Nassr defender Aymeric Laporte has asked to leave the Saudi Arabian giants, amid interest from Real Madrid, as per Rudy Galetti (via Football Espana). The former Manchester City player impressed for Spain at Euro 2024, playing every match and leading them to the title. La Roja conceded just four goals in seven appearances, with Laporte holding down the forte brilliantly.
The 30-year-old defender opted for an exit from Manchester City in 2023 after winning 13 trophies with the Cityzens. Laporte joined Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr but his impressive performances in Euro 2024 showed he can still play at the highest level.
Now, according to Galetti, the former Manchester City defender is prepared for a return to Europe. He has been linked with Madrid giants Atletico and Real Madrid, with the two clubs noting him as a potential option to shore up their defenses.
Following this, Laporte has informed Al-Nassr that he would like to leave the club, and according to the report, they are ready to sell him. However, this will only transpire if an offer they deem acceptable were to come for his services.
Real Madrid legend Luka Modric should retire: Former footballer Predrag Mijatovic
Predrag Mijatovic, who won four trophies with Real Madrid in the late 90s, has asked Luka Modric to retire.
Speaking on Cadena SER, he urged the 38-year-old to seriously consider retirement, saying (via Forbes):
"Luka had an offer from Saudi Arabia and he rejected it, this summer he has also had offers for a lot of money but he has decided to stay. He has already made up his mind that he is no longer an undisputed starter, he realised that last season and he already knows that he is not a starter.
"He's going to be 39 years old and I think he's close to retiring from Real Madrid, I don't know if he'll make it to the World Cup, you never know and with Luka even less, but I think it's time to retire, and if it can be at Madrid even better."
Luka Modric has decided to spend another year at the Santiago Bernabeu, and he will notably turn 39 in September. His experience will be vital to the young dressing room, which has quite a few midfielders in their early 20s.