Brahim Diaz is electing to represent Morocco at the international level, going against his birth nation of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/spain-national-team-tv-schedule/">Spain</a>. Diaz has already made one appearance for the Spanish national team. He scored a goal in a friendly against Lithuania on June 8, 2021. However, since that was not an official competition, Diaz is allowed to switch allegiance. As the son of a Moroccan father, Diaz has the eligibility to represent <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/morocco-national-team-tv-schedule/">Morocco</a>. He has never featured for Morocco at any level, even though he was a candidate to feature in the nation’s squad at AFCON 2023.



According to ESPN, Diaz’s reason for switching allegiance comes down to the Royal Spanish Football Federation, or RFEF. Diaz has not had consistent communication with RFEF about the potential of featuring in Spain’s squad for March friendlies. Comparatively, Morocco is providing Diaz the chance to play consistently as an international. Therefore, all signs point to Diaz’s inclusion in Walid Regragui’s squad for friendlies against Angola and Mauritania.



The lack of communication from RFEF extends to the federation’s <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/barcelonas-lamine-yamal-to-feature-on-spain-squad-at-16-years-old-20230828-WST-452600.html">attempts to court Lamine Yamal</a>. The <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/psg-offer-barcelona-218-million-for-wonderkid-lamine-yamal/">Barcelona teenager</a> is the hottest commodity among national teams. A star in the making with Barcelona, Spain sent multiple high-ranking executives to ensure Lamine Yamal represents Spain. Much like Brahim Diaz, Yamal is eligible for the Morocco national team. Diaz is a talented and capable backup option for whichever team does not get Lamine Yamal.



Brahim Diaz has shown flashes of brilliance despite already hitting the age of 24. For example, Diaz scored <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uq86TgzErEI" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a stunning goal</a> to give <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> a lead against RB Leipzig in the UEFA Champions League round of 16. This season, Diaz has eight goals and four assists. He also spent three seasons at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/ac-milan-tv-schedule/">AC Milan</a> on loan, where he made over a century of appearances. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240311_WST_494596_Brahim-Diaz-Real-MAdrid-1200x670_d0ddc617.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-494597" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Brahim-Diaz-Real-MAdrid-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Brahim-Diaz-Real-MAdrid-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Brahim-Diaz-Real-MAdrid-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Brahim-Diaz-Real-MAdrid.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Brahim Diaz adds to developing Morocco side</h2>



If the 24-year-old joins Morocco for its friendlies in the March international window, he will join a Morocco side that recently reached the World Cup semifinals for the first time. Achraf Hakimi is the star of the squad, and his background is similar to Brahim Diaz. Much like the Real Madrid forward, Hakimi was born in Spain to Moroccan parents. However, Hakimi spent his youth international career with Morocco. 



He joins up with players like Hakim Ziyech, Youssef En-Nesyri, Yassine Bounou and Sofyan Amrabat. Each of those players played a key role in Morocco’s historic run to the last four at the World Cup. A surprise exit in the round of 16 at AFCON 2023 was a disappointment, but the talent is there.



<h2>First appearances in March friendlies</h2>



Moroccan supporters will be able to see Diaz in those two friendlies at home should Walid Regragui bring him up. Angola and Mauritania will not be too tough of a challenge for Morocco, but it will allow Diaz to acquaint himself with new teammates. Both games are in Agadir. Then, in the summer, Diaz will likely be a part of the squad when Morocco picks up World Cup qualifying for 2026. Morocco will play Zambia and Morocco for its second and third group-stage games. 



PHOTOS: IMAGO

Real's Brahim Diaz chooses Morocco over Spain national team

Brahim Diaz is electing to represent Morocco at the international level, going against his birth nation of Spain.

Real Madrid were the subject of an inquiry that was disclosed earlier this week by the Spanish Football Federation. 



For one thing, they have been utilizing their TV station to air documentaries. In those videos, they criticize the ‘errors’ of the referees who will be in charge of their next matches.



As the first team to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/sevilla-file-complaint-over-real-madrid-tv-what-next-for-madrid-20240225-WST-491587.html">complain to the Federation</a>, Sevilla added fuel to the fire of the long-running controversy around the subject. 



A few days ago, the Competition Committee at the RFEF approved their request after some fiddling with the original rejection.



Prior to each La Liga match, Sevilla officially lodged a complaint over the hit pieces directed against the officials. Their goal is to prevent the La Liga heavyweights from exerting pressure on the referees.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/valencia-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers">Sevilla</a> lodged their protest before the encounter on February 25. Thus, the Rojiblancos have initiated an inquiry into the issue. “Just before each match, with enormous dissemination on television”, they claim, “the videos try to create the image of a lack of professionalism and anti-Madridismo”.



Although the films have caused a stir on social media, Real Madrid TV really has a woeful audience. They have also contributed to the club’s ‘victim narrative’, as seen in their report vs Valencia. 



The Sevilla camp claimed these clips insinuate a prejudice against them. They also think the videos heighten match stress by conditioning the supporters to believe it.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240310_WST_494506_Bellingham-Red-Card-1-1200x670_9b795315.webp&amp;width=650&amp;height=362" alt="" class="wp-image-494517" width="650" height="362" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Bellingham-Red-Card-1-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Bellingham-Red-Card-1-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Bellingham-Red-Card-1-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Bellingham-Red-Card-1.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px"></figure><figcaption>The relationship between Real Madrid and referees has been under the microscope recently.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>New scandalous video emerges</h2>



However, the club hierarchy reportedly do not expect to impose any punishment. A private media business officially operates the channel, even though they aim the content at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> supporters. This eliminates any possibility of disciplinary action against the club. That is unless the Competition Committee finds evidence of contentious decision-making by the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-la-liga-on-us-tv-and-internet/">La Liga</a> leaders.



So, Carlo Ancelotti’s team isn’t reportedly worried about this continuing probe because they think they have every right to do this. According to <a href="https://as.com/futbol/primera/rmtv-reacciona-al-expediente-con-un-nuevo-video-n/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diario AS</a>, they have now released a new video featuring referee Mario Melero Lopez, who was in charge of Sunday’s match against Celta Vigo.



Among Melero Lopez’s ‘mistakes’ that Real Madrid TV brought to light was his decision not to penalize Eduardo Camavinga for a challenge. While serving as the contest’s video assistant referee, this incident occurred during their clash versus Rayo Vallecano in the previous matchday.



<h2>Real Madrid provide answer on field</h2>



Meanwhile, the Whites answered all the questions about their off-field behavior by cruising to a 4-0 victory against Celta Vigo. That put an end to their winless streak of two matches.



The Blancos got off to a flying start and scored the first goal just before halftime. After Vicente Guaita made a good stop from a header by Antonio Rudiger, Vinicius scored on the second attempt. The second 45 minutes saw a greater offensive threat from Celta Vigo, but it was Ancelotti’s men who scored more goals.



Once again, Rudiger was instrumental in the second half, this time setting the score at 2-0 with a header that beat the unlucky Guaita. Substitute Carlos Dominguez sent the ball in his own net at the far post for a third own goal.



Time was still on Arda Guler’s side when he scored Real Madrid’s opening goal. His impressive talent allowed him to dribble past Guaita and score into the back of the goal.



Photo credit: IMAGO / CordonPress IMAGO / CordonPress.

Madrid release another video of referees' errors despite inquiry

Real Madrid were the subject of an inquiry that was disclosed earlier this week by the Spanish Football Federation.

Madrid release another video of referees' errors despite inquiry - World Soccer Talk

Sergino Dest’s Barcelona future had been considered to be bleak, however his significant salary could force a return to the Camp Nou.



After joining <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/barcelona-tv-schedule/">Barcelona</a>, Dest played on loan for a while. It seems, nevertheless, that <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/how-to-watch-psv-eindhoven-on-us-tv">PSV Eindhoven</a> may have become his permanent home. The American defender is maximizing his time in the Eredivisie.



The 23-year-old has been instrumental in PSV’s remarkable season. He has made 31 appearances in all competitions, assisting with six assists and scoring two himself. The American has been a perfect fit for coach Peter Bosz’s plans. He has played as a left winger in almost every match despite his usual position as a right defender.



There has been no official word on whether Dest will stay with PSV after this season, but it is likely. Therefore, the Dutch club is giving serious thought to acquiring the full-back via the $11 million buy option. As reported by the <a href="https://www.ed.nl/eindhoven/peter-bosz-ergert-zich-aan-rode-kaart-van-psv-ik-vond-dat-zo-vreselijk-slecht-gefloten-echt-vreselijk~ae1c48b5/?referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eindhovens Dagblad</a> newspaper in the Netherlands, PSV are reportedly hoping to negotiate a reduced transfer cost with Barcelona.



The Blaugrana don’t have the 23-year-old in their long-term plans, therefore the transfer discussions shouldn’t be too difficult. Yet, completing the full-back’s deal can provide some difficulties.



<h2>Is Dest’s Barcelona salary the main obstacle to PSV stay?</h2>



At the moment, the Red and Whites are partially covering Dest’s rather hefty salary. There may be complications if he remains in the Dutch top division as they will be required to pay his whole wage.



Consequently, they could propose that he forego his summer salary. On the other hand, the article notes that Dest’s wage expectations may cause friction during the negotiations. Since this is the case, PSV will probably negotiate a salary and signing package after outlining a ballpark figure.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="800" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240309_WST_494410_imago1010244609h-1200x800_f1def3ad.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=800" alt="" class="wp-image-494441" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1010244609h-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1010244609h-300x200.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1010244609h-768x512.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1010244609h-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1010244609h-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Dest’s chances under Xavi were limited</figcaption></figure>



The Camp Nou side looks eager to get rid of the player, but they won’t have much leverage in the negotiations. Especially given that the American star’s contract expires next summer.



The Blaugrana would still owe $4.6 million after spreading Dest’s amortization equally across his five-year deal. That means the transfer fee will probably be higher.



<h2>Third time’s a charm?</h2>



Accordingly, PSV Eindhoven will want to advance to the quarterfinals of the Champions League. They currently have an active result of 1-1 against Borussia Dortmund in the last 16 round. With the $11.6 million that would be available from qualification, they may use some of it to buy Dest.



For the Dutch team, this financial windfall would be vital. On the other hand, they hold out hope that Dest would budge and reduce his demands in order to make his signing easier.



Aside from that, Barcelona has been closely monitoring his performance in the Eredivisie. Although he offers a lot of adaptability, according to <a href="https://www.sport.es/es/noticias/barca/metamorfosis-dest-favorece-barca-98812591" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sport</a>, a permanent transfer to Eindhoven is no longer certain.



Barca boss Xavi Hernandez will leave in the summer, giving the diligent fullback another opportunity to show his skill. The Spanish coach previously lost all faith in Dest.



Photo credits: IMAGO / NurPhoto : IMAGO / AFLOSPORT

Third try? Dest's salary demands could mean Barcelona return

Sergino Dest's salary could prove problematic to Barcelona and their hopes of offloading the defender this summer

In the world of soccer, Kylian Mbappe’s potential move from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid is front and center. This move is close to being official, as the Spanish media have broken news that could stun the world. It will likely amount to an incredible half a billion euros in the next five years.



Mbappe will get $140 million from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-demands-brother-to-join-him-at-madrid-whats-next-20240228-WST-492011.html">Real Madrid as a signing fee</a>, with the rest $290 million coming in installments. The club’s commitment to acquiring the French player is evident in this massive sum, which is partially funded by the proceeds from the new stadium.



This move and others like it will be easier for Madrid to complete at the club’s new stadium. The team is anticipated to generate substantial income, enabling them to invest heavily in players like Mbappe and Erling Halland.



<h2>Busy summer ahead awaits Mbappe</h2>



The La Liga leaders are also reportedly busy preparing for the arrival of the Frenchman. With what is expected to be his first international move, Mbappe is in for a busy summer. Assuming he does really relocate, he will have a busy schedule leading up to the start of the La Liga season.



The 25-year-old will also be present at the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-european-championship-tv-schedule/">UEFA European Championship</a> in Germany with France and at the home Olympics in Paris. The Euro starts out on June 14 and concludes on July 14.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="798" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240309_WST_494402_imago1037171854h-1200x798_04b8574e.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=798" alt="" class="wp-image-494437" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-1200x798.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-300x200.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-768x511.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-2048x1363.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Mbappe will lead France into Euro 2024 this coming summer</figcaption></figure>



In the meantime, the soccer portion of the Olympics will take place from July 24 to August 10, a whole month later. Six days after that, the Spanish season will have officially started.



No one can predict France’s or Mbappe’s performance in any given tournament. Unfortunately, this means Los Blancos won’t have much time to greet him with the fanfare and circumstance they surely want.



Also, Mbappe will probably miss the whole of their preseason visit to the United States if he does end up going to the Olympics.



<h2>When could Real Madrid host Mbappe’s presentation?</h2>



Thus, Spanish newspaper <a href="https://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2024/03/08/65eac86d22601d08618b45ca.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marca</a> claims that the striker will reportedly be presented at the Santiago Bernabeu between June 3 and June 6. That is before he officially joins the French national team for the upcoming tournaments.



The week before the final will be the alternate date in case <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> or Mbappe don’t play in the Champions League final. June 28 and June 29 would be Taylor Swift’s performances at the Santiago Bernabeu, therefore it would probably be on the 30th or 31st.



Regardless of the enormous uncertainty around his future, Mbappe has maintained an exceptionally high level of performance. Even though he has been impressive, <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/luis-enrique-bizarre-response-whether-kylian-mbappe-will-be-on-psg-bench/blt7f4124024e9a2bc9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luis Enrique</a> has made it a point to use Mbappe less often in each match.



The French striker had already been substituted after 65 minutes of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/psg-tv-schedule/">PSG</a>‘s goalless draw with Rennes a week before; he was removed at halftime during the match against his former club, Monaco. “Sooner or later, he is not going to play with us, we need to get used to that”, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/more-drama-psg-boss-explains-decision-to-sub-mbappe-off-20240302-WST-492736.html">Enrique explained</a>.



“My job is that way. I have to make decisions all the time. That’s my philosophy, my idea, to think about the best option for my team. Nothing else. Those are my decisions. I’m not going to enter into this game. I’m a professional. I don’t have a problem. It’s just a question of management and how best to manage the squad.”



Photo credits: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire : IMAGO / NurPhoto

Busy summer: Date of Mbappe's presentation at Madrid revealed

There are rumors about Kylian Mbappe's presentation as a Real Madrid player, despite no contract yet being inked

PSG are intent on making another wave in the transfer market, and have settled on Lamine Yamal of Barcelona to replace Kylian Mbappe.



It has been widely reported that the superstar will depart the Parisian side in order to sign with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> this summer. The <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/france-national-team-tv-schedule/">France</a> international was previously linked with a move to Madrid back in 2022, but ultimately signed a new deal with PSG. 



Nevertheless, Mbappe is now set to become a free agent in June.



The loss of the star will create a massive hole to fill up front for the reigning <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/ligue-un-tv-schedule/">Ligue 1</a> champions. 



While PSG likely needs to sign an established forward this summer, they are also apparently attempting to splash over $200 million on a 16-year-old phenom. Marca reporter Luis Rojo is claiming that the French team offered the massive fee for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/barcelona-tv-schedule/">Barcelona</a> starlet Lamine Yamal. The <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/la-liga-tv-schedule/">LaLiga</a> club, however, reportedly rejected the proposal.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="622" height="231" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240309_WST_494242_luis-rojo_be5e0461.webp&amp;width=622&amp;height=231" alt="" class="wp-image-494277" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/luis-rojo.jpg 622w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/luis-rojo-300x111.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 622px) 100vw, 622px"></figure><figcaption>PSG are desperate to replace Kylian Mbappe with a sensational talent, and have settled on Lamine Yamal of Barcelona</figcaption></figure>



Yamal is widely regarded as one of the top teenage prospects in the world at the moment. Despite his age, the youngster has already become a mainstay in manager Xavi’s squad. In fact, the winger has appeared in 37 total matches for Barca so far this season. 27 of these games have come in league play.



<h2>Mallorca manager compares Yamal to a young Lionel Messi</h2>



In his most recent match, Yamal scored the only goal in a matchup with Mallorca on Friday. The strike was the youngster’s 13th direct goal contribution for the club during the current campaign. After the match, Mallorca manager Javier Aguirre heaped some unconventional praise on Yamal.



“The first time I saw Leo Messi play, it was 21 years ago and I needed 5 minutes to say: he’s a mouse. Lamine Yamal also plays like a mouse,” <a href="https://www.football-espana.net/2024/03/09/mallorca-boss-javier-aguirre-lauds-lamine-yamal-with-unconventional-praise-makes-lionel-messi-comparison" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proclaimed</a> Aguirre. “He looks like that too. I know that this club works very well with young people. If it continues like this, he will bring Barcelona a lot of happiness.”



Xavi was also asked about the similarities between Yamal and Messi after the game as well. The manager, however, was careful not to go too far with the comparison. “I get [the comparison] but it doesn’t benefit Lamine to make it,” <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/39686954/barcelona-lamine-yamal-flashes-messi-mallorca-goal-xavi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stated</a> Xavi.



“Anyone who has ever been compared with Messi has lost. It is not good to compare players with him. But Lamine is left footed, he comes inside … there are flashes of Messi, but we are talking abut the best footballer ever, so it is best not to compare them.”



<h2>Barcelona are unwilling to sell Lamine Yamal to PSG, despite money problems</h2>



Barca has been enduring tough financial times over the last year or so. In fact, they were previously <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/barcelona-hit-with-financial-fair-play-violation-and-fine-20230103-WST-414235.html">charged</a> with violating Financial Fair Play rules in January of 2023. As a result, the club has been attempting to create additional revenue in various ways.



One of these avenues is to make a profit in transfer windows by selling players. The Catalan Club actually generated about $67 million in player deals during the current campaign. LaLiga president Javier Tebas recently <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/laliga-president-says-barcelona-should-sell-key-stars-for-money-20240301-WST-492408.html">claimed</a> that Los Cules most likely needs to continue this trend to adhere to the league’s laws. 



Nevertheless, the Spanish side appears unwilling to part ways with their most prized teen phenom.



Photo credits: IMAGO / NurPhoto.

PSG offer Barcelona $218 million for wonderkid Lamine Yamal

PSG have reportedly had a $200 million approach for 16-year-old Lamine Yamal rejected by La Liga giants, Barcelona

On Thursday, Barcelona revealed a positive development regarding the fitness midfielder Pedri. It would seem that coach Xavi has faith in the midfielder’s ability to finally put his issues behind him.



Another long-term issue has surfaced for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/season-over-for-pedri-as-questions-loom-on-barcelona-future-20240306-WST-493335.html">Pedri</a>, and he may never recover to the level of success that many anticipated. After injuring his right quad, the Blaugrana star slouched onto the field at San Mames.



He didn’t need assistance leaving the field. However, he seemed distressed as he hobbled to the sidelines, with the Athletic Club supporters cheering him on. A series of fitness issues have hampered what might have been a spectacular career. To make matters worse, last weekend’s setback was only the most recent episode.



The former Golden Boy winner has failed to live up to the hype around him as a top-tier midfielder in the three years after he made his Barca debut. The 21-year-old has been dealing with a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/barcelona-loses-dynamic-midfield-pair-to-injury-after-draw-20240304-WST-492966.html">string of muscular injuries</a> for over two years.



Therefore, his capacity to play continuously at a time is a major cause for worry over his potential to be a crucial component of the Blaugrana’s future core.



<h2>Xavi comments on the status of Pedri</h2>



Nevertheless, Pedri’s coach does not feel too concerned. Thursday, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/xavi-tells-all-will-he-reconsider-decision-to-leave-barcelona-20240303-WST-492838.html">Xavi</a> Hernandez updated the press on Pedri’s injuries with some <a href="https://www.fcbarcelona.com/en/football/first-team/news/3924410/xavi-its-not-just-the-champions-league" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">good news at a press conference.</a>



“What we are trying to do is prevent injuries, I think we have done an impeccable job, especially Pedri. I have already told him that it is the last injury. It is not as serious as first though. I’m sure he will come back, and he will be important. He is not the first player that this has happened to.”



Subsequently, the Spaniard dropped a hint that his player’s chronic injuries may be a psychological issue.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240307_WST_493751_Pedri-Barca-return-1200x670_96f14acd.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-493767" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Pedri-Barca-return-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Pedri-Barca-return-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Pedri-Barca-return-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Pedri-Barca-return.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



“No, but this is not the first time that someone has had a lot of injuries at the start of their career and then never gotten injured after that. It is not easy to manage the pressure at his young age, I think there is an issue that he has to convince himself that he will recover and will be fine.



“The important thing about Pedri is that he is OK. It’s not about returning on the day of the Clasico, nor recovering for the Euros. He doesn’t have to think about anything other than recovering 100%. We are in constant contact with Albert Luque, I have a good relationship. He’s from Terrassa just like me,” he said.



<h2>What has Barcelona set as a return date for Pedri?</h2>



Barcelona is taking a cautious approach to Pedri’s injury, and rumors have circulated that he may not play again until next year. New information from <a href="https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/fc-barcelona/20240306/1002203779/alivio-pedri-llegar-clasico-abril.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mundo Deportivo</a>, however, suggests things are looking up.



The injury that Pedri sustained, according to their report, was not a recurrence but rather impacted a different part of his hamstring. This almost guarantees that he will make another appearance this season.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/history-of-el-clasico-real-madrid-vs-barcelona/">El Clasico</a> against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> at the tail end of April is being touted as a potential, albeit improbable, comeback date.



PHOTOS: IMAGO

Great news: Barcelona have return date for Pedri this season

On Thursday, Barcelona revealed a positive development regarding the fitness midfielder Pedri, with reports of a possible return date.

Spanish soccer officials are looking into Real Madrid TV broadcasts regarding referees due to complaints from other clubs. The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) opened the investigation because Real’s broadcasting channel has heavily criticized referees ahead of matches.



Fellow <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/la-liga-tv-schedule/">LaLiga</a> side <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/sevilla-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Sevilla</a> filed a complaint on the issue back on February 24th. This was one day before the two teams faced off on the pitch. The Andalusian club claimed that Real Madrid TV conducted a “campaign of persecution and harassment” against the particular officials set to referee the match. Real ended up winning the match 1-0 through a late goal from Luka Modric. 



Although Sevilla is the first team to file a complaint, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real</a> rivals <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/barcelona-tv-schedule/">Barcelona</a> also previously voiced concerns on the issue. The Catalan club’s president, Joan Laporta, recently labeled the Real Madrid TV videos as “shameful” in a talk with Spanish radio. Laporta also asked for RFEF to “get involved” as well.



<h2>Sevilla’s official complaint directly influenced investigation</h2>



According to claims by Sevilla, Spanish soccer officials are complying with the request by looking into the matter. “The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), via its Judges and Disciplinary Committee, has informed us that they have opened an investigation into Real Madrid, following our complaint of the videos broadcast by Real Madrid TV in the build-up to games,” <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/39673914/rfef-probe-real-madrid-ref-clips-sevilla-complaint" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">read</a> the statement by Sevilla.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240307_WST_493637_Real-Madrid-TV-referee-1200x670_e9c9b826.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-493685" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Real-Madrid-TV-referee-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Real-Madrid-TV-referee-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Real-Madrid-TV-referee-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Real-Madrid-TV-referee.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



“Ahead of our match at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid TV released a video scrutinizing referees Isidro Díaz de Mera and Pablo González Fuertes, the referee and VAR respectively chosen for the match.”



“The club decided to take action in light of the fact that these practices, which have been a recurring theme in recent times, including before a league meeting earlier this season between the two teams, are seriously damaging to Spanish football and call the integrity of the competition and its officiating body into question.”



<h2>Real Madrid TV broadcasts could add pressure on referees</h2>



The most recent refereeing decision to upset Real occurred during a fixture with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/valencia-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Valencia</a> last weekend. Los Blancos were furious that match official Jesus Gil Manzano disallowed a late goal by Jude Bellingham. 



Manzano blew his whistle to end the game just seconds before the English midfielder scored the game-winning goal. The match ultimately ended in a 2-2 draw and Bellingham was <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/madrid-loses-appeal-as-bellingham-faces-red-card-suspension-20240306-WST-493332.html">shown a red card</a> for his protests. He will now miss his club’s next two LaLiga matches.



Real manager Carlo Ancelotti has defended the aforementioned broadcasts, citing freedom of speech. Nevertheless, other clubs and fans will claim that the decision to berate referees before games could potentially influence the officials. The public opinions by Real Madrid TV may also put these refs in a precarious situation with the fans. 



The Santiago Bernabeu regularly draws around 75,000 supporters on matchday. Fans who have watched the Real Madrid TV broadcasts could enter the arena with a hostile view towards the referee before the game even kicks off. In turn, this could create added pressure on the officials. It is unclear what kind of punishment Real could face in the investigation.



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

Real Madrid TV under investigation for bashing refs before games

Spanish soccer officials are reportedly investigating Real Madrid TV's broadcasts due to multiple complaints from other LaLiga clubs.

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