Open Thread: 19 May 2026

[ASFN Admin]

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The Daily Merengue is a place where you can feel free to d all things football. Do not be alarmed by the overt RMCF bias. It’s in the name! Shoutout to the mods who do a fantastic job, Ezek, Valyrian Steel, Kung_Fu_Zizou, Juninho, NeRObutBlanco and yours truly, Felipejack.

Mourinho coaching staff​

JUST IN: José Mourinho is coming to Real Madrid with his Benfica coaching staff:

– João Tralhão: assistant coach.
– Pedro Machado: assistant coach.
– Nuno Santos: goalkeeping coach.
– Roberto Merella: analyst.

— @Record_Portugalpic.twitter.com/MDpdp0Tphl

— Madrid Universal (@MadridUniversal) May 19, 2026

Other updates regarding Mourinho​

• Per report, Mourinho will also request a second medical opinion on every injury.
• The contract will be signed only after Perez is re-elected Madrid’s President, especially considering that everything indicate that Riquelme is going to be an candidate (look below).

Will Paz return?​

Nico Paz is waiting to understand what José Mourinho wants to do with him, specifically looking for clarity on the incoming manager's tactical system and what his role would be in terms of importance.

Meanwhile, Nico is also waiting for Como, as Cesc Fàbregas still highly… pic.twitter.com/bxaGvgZRzg

— Real Madrid Xtra (@RealMadridXtra) May 19, 2026

Honestly, with the issues we already have to play many players, aka Arda and Jude, I don’t think it’s wise to bring back Paz, unless there are sales/departures (and, to be clear, I don’t mean Ceballos)

Riquelme set to announce his candidancy​

BREAKING: Enrique Riquelme has now finalized his candidacy to run for Real Madrid president.

He will announce it this week and will demand 2 direct debates against Florentino Pérez.

— @RadioMARCApic.twitter.com/6sNXX0qlIL

— Madrid Universal (@MadridUniversal) May 19, 2026

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