Xavi Hernández on Real Madrid's bid for Julián Álvarez: “It's funny how often this happens in football. Barcelona show interest in a player, everyone says the club is dreaming, the operation is impossible, the player is too expensive. Then a few weeks later, suddenly the same player appears on Real Madrid's list. Maybe it's just a coincidence. Or maybe Barcelona are still setting the trends in the transfer market. I've always said that when Barça move for a player, people pay attention. Not only fans, but clubs too. Julián Álvarez is a fantastic player, so I'm not surprised Madrid want him. What surprises me is how often they end up looking in the same direction as Barcelona. Sometimes it feels like Barcelona identify the target first and everyone else joins the race afterwards. That's why this rivalry is special. Even off the pitch, some clubs spend a lot of time watching what BarceloExclusive: Jamie Carragher just clapped back at Cristiano Ronaldo Ronaldo: I'll still be playing like this for the next four years.' Carragher: I'd say the same if I was earning that Saudi bag too 😂 But let's be honest, Portugal is stacked with stars. Time for CR7 to step aside and let the hungry young lions lead. His teammates keep carrying him while he chases individual stats and awards instead of team glory.' Remember after the last World Cup when Ronaldo called it 'just a 7-game tournament'? Bro... if it's just 7 games, why are you fighting so hard to stick around till 45? 🇵🇹 Drop the ego, pass the torch. The next generation is ready.na are doing.”
