With an early goal, Vinícius Júnior (15′) led Real Madrid to a 1-0 (1-0) victory at FC Sevilla on Sunday; despite the defeat, the hosts remain safe from relegation. German international Antonio Rüdiger and star striker Kylian Mbappé started for the Royal club. Mbappé’s apparent goal in the 74th minute was ruled out for offside. The Frenchman had previously made headlines with sharp criticism of coach Álvaro Arbeloa, describing himself as “striker number four” – a comment Spanish media interpreted as a “declaration of war”.
The relegation battle in La Liga remains wide open until the final whistle. FC Girona (18th place, 40 points), RCD Mallorca (19th place, 39 points), and Levante UD (17th place, 42 points) are still fighting for survival on the final matchday. Only Real Oviedo has already been confirmed as relegated.
Meanwhile, speculation about a managerial change at Real Madrid is growing. José Mourinho, most recently at Benfica Lisbon, is considered a leading candidate to replace Arbeloa. The Portuguese confirmed contacts between his agent and the club. Arbeloa himself seemed open to the idea, stating he would be “happy” if Mourinho took over. For Real, this marks the end of a second consecutive season without a title.
