A player in a blue and white uniform appears in the foreground with a large red X over him, while another player in a white uniform is pixelated in the background.
Zubimendi Labeled an Incognito Player | Camara Didac Aguirre
FIRST TEAM

Better than Zubimendi: Real Madrid Eyes the Next Toni Kroos

The player who has presented himself as the worthy successor to Toni Kroos has caught Real Madrid's attention

by

Didac Aguirre

One of the most painful departures Real Madrid has experienced in recent seasons was Toni Kroos's retirement. Leaving a great legacy behind, the German bid farewell to a club and a sport he enjoyed for many years.  While the club saw Zubimendi as the ideal player to replace the Teutonic legend, the club has set its sights on a young star.

Manchester United player Kobbie Mainoo has caught the attention of the merengue team. His performance with the 'red devils' has drawn comparisons to Toni Kroos in his best career years. Controlling the club's midfield, the club has ruled out signing Zubimendi for him.

Soccer player in a red uniform raising his hand during a match.
Kobbie Mainoo at United | Didac Aguirre

While the operation won't be easy, Real Madrid is willing to make a trade to convince Manchester United. If the English club agrees to Mainoo's departure, the white club would allow Ferland Mendy to leave.

Kroos's Successor at Real Madrid

Debuting with Manchester United in 2023, Kobbie Mainoo dazzled everyone with his impressive talent. At just 19 years old, the Englishman has managed to play 1,655 minutes this season. An impressive amount for a player who, as the matches go by, is gaining more prominence and self-confidence.

Considered the future star of the English club, he secured his future with a contract until 2027. However, due to the need to strengthen their midfield, Real Madrid has seen in Mainoo someone capable of filling the gap left by Kroos.

A player in a red uniform brings his hand to his mouth during a match.
Kobbie Mainoo at United | Didac Aguirre

The trade with Mendy only further evidences the strong interest the team has in making this operation successful. Additionally, this also makes it clear that the signing of Zubimendi has lost momentum, with the Spaniard being surpassed by a young promise.

Victory Over Zubimendi

After several months on Real Madrid's radar, it finally seems that the signing of Zubimendi won't become a reality. Despite his enormous talent, Mainoo's age along with his future projection are qualities that have secured the team's interest.

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