congratulations are in order for…

– David Mateos, because according to AS, he’s finally been offered the coveted professional contract, which means that Mourinho can start using him in our depleted back line.

That’s great and all, but what I find fascinating is that the front office of Real Madrid is actually listening to their coach???  Heeding his words?  Doing what he wants?  That calls for a entire case of cava!!!

And it looks like Madrid may be doing the same with Juanfran!

– Rafa van der Vaart, because he’s staying with Madrid!  Okay, this one is mostly fantasy at the moment, but I would love to see it come true, because that would be further proof that the front office is indeed listening to Mou and not flogging Rafa out.  After all, last year Pellegrini said he wanted to keep Robben and Sneijder, and we all know what happened.  It’s disheartening to read that Rafa will not be traveling with the team to Mallorca this weekend because he could be sold at any moment.  ¡Ánimo Rafa!  I really hope he stays!

– Sergio Canales, for getting called up to the U-21 team!  Goalkeeper Tomás Mejías of Castilla is also on the list.

– and of course, to us, because Xabi Alonso has joined the world of twitter, thus giving us the wisdom of three of the four musketeers.  Hopefully, Xabi will give us some insight into the Real Madrid locker room, as well as dispense fashion advice for some of his teammates!!!