The Open Thread/Daily Merengue is a place where you can discuss anything and everything related to football. Feel free to discuss the topics presented here, or start your very own discussions! The Open thread will be posted every day by one of the mods you’d totally have drinks with: Valyrian Steel, Felipejack, YoSnail, Ezek Ix or yours truly.

♫ Get’cha Head In the Game ♫

The boys in white completed their final training session ahead of the Getafe game - one that they need to win to pile the pressure on Atletico Madrid- now that the La Liga title is up for grabs.

(Headline’s an easy movie reference)

Match time!

Yeesh! Did you take a look at that squad list for the Getafe game? It’s as thin as it gets, with only 13 players in there. Mendy was also added to the injury list, bringing the season’s tally to 54! Somebody please check if it’s a record. And then there’s the fact that most of those available have played an awful lot recently, the highlight of this being the so-called “Hell Week”, in which Real Madrid played three very physically demanding and season defining games. Now, they’re off to face Getafe for this Sunday’s match and it seems that Victor Chust might be starting at center back.

Look to the East for reinforcements

Though it doesn’t quite make up for the injured and/or sick starters and veterans, Zinedine Zidane has decided to include 3 Castilla players in the squad for Getafe, according to Marca. Those three are M. Gutierez, A. Blanco and the usual first team guest, S. Arribas.

Transfer Rumour (Yes, it’s about him again)

It’s been discussed quite a bit, but I’ll go ahead an ask anyway; Do you guys think he’s actually coming this year?

Also, Manchester United and Arsenal are trying to Solid Snake their way into the Camavinga race. The youngster has been in Real Madrid’s sights for a while now, but you know how it goes. It’s not always “first come, first served” in this matters.

Selflessness Personified

Apparently, the Real Madrid players decided that they will let go of their (possible) bonus so as to save the club some money.

The way forward

Marca reports that Madrid have their list for “untouchables” for the coming seasons. According to the article, Vinicius Jr, Fede Valverde, Rodrygo & -wait for it-.. Martin Ødegaard (!) are young players that are not up for sale, as they are considered key components of the club’s future. It is also reported that the club recognize the need for reinforcements. This should be music to the ears of those hoping for a summer with ... fireworks.

Make sure you enjoy the match and, above all, have a great day! May the madridismo be with you.