Real Madrid head coach Alvaro Arbeloa has admitted he wants to "eliminate" Jose Mourinho and Benfica when the two sides meet in the UEFA Champions League play-off first leg at Estadio da Luz on Tuesday night.
A superb performance from Vinicius Junior helped Real Madrid to an impressive 4-1 win over Real Sociedad, which lifted them to the top of LaLiga ahead of Barcelona's game on Sunday.
Brazilian forward Endrick is set to return to Real Madrid after a brief but eye-catching loan spell at Lyon, despite growing speculation over a potential permanent transfer to France for next season.
Toni Kroos has publicly backed Cristiano Ronaldo amid his Saudi Pro League drama, and named the Portuguese star as the best player he has ever played with.
Real Madrid remain just a point behind Barcelona in the race for the LaLiga title after both sides won at the weekend.
Real Madrid face a crucial La Liga test at Valencia on Sunday, as they look to keep pace with leaders FC Barcelona.