On the first day of Real Sociedad's pre-season training, there were no new signings, just several young players from the B team.
Teenager Arda Guler scored on his first league start to move Real Madrid within four points of winning their 36th LaLiga title with a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad.
Days turn into weeks, weeks into months, and Mikel Merino's contract saga with Real Sociedad continues.
Real Sociedad striker Umar Sadiq has set tongues wagging in the Nigerian camp after surprisingly featuring for his club on Wednesday night despite withdrawing from the AFCON squad due to injury.
Holders Manchester City will face FC Copenhagen in the last 16 of the Champions League.
Real Madrid were forced to come from behind to continue their perfect start to the new La Liga season with a 2-1 win over Real Sociedad.