Raúl Takes Charge at Real Oviedo as Cubarsí, Zubimendi and Raphinha Make Headlines

Spanish football is making headlines with managerial changes, individual recognition, transfer speculation and preparations for the national team’s international fixtures.

Former Real Madrid striker Raúl González has reportedly been appointed head coach of Real Oviedo following the dismissal of Julián Calero, despite the club’s recent victory over Cádiz.

The appointment marks another major step in Raúl’s coaching career after his time in charge of Real Madrid’s reserve side, Castilla. He now faces the challenge of guiding Oviedo through the remainder of the season, with his first match reportedly scheduled for Saturday.

Meanwhile, Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí has reportedly been named the 2026 Golden Boy, an award recognising outstanding young football talent. The 19-year-old centre-back is said to have finished ahead of the other finalists, adding another individual achievement to his growing reputation in European football.

Spain’s national team have also begun preparations for their upcoming international fixtures at the Ciudad del Fútbol in Las Rozas. The opening session included a minute’s silence in memory of Jesús de Miguel, followed by an evening training session attended by approximately 1,500 supporters.

In the transfer market, Atlético Madrid are reportedly positioning themselves to pursue Arsenal midfielder Martín Zubimendi in an effort to strengthen Diego Simeone’s midfield options.

The midfielder, who previously played for Real Sociedad, is being linked with a possible move away from Arsenal in the coming transfer windows. However, no agreement or confirmed transfer has been announced in the supplied report.

Barcelona and the Brazilian Football Confederation are also reportedly coordinating Raphinha’s workload during the international break.

The arrangement is intended to manage the forward’s playing time and physical condition while he represents Brazil, with the aim of ensuring he returns to Barcelona in good condition.

Together, the developments highlight a busy period for Spanish football, with clubs making managerial decisions, monitoring potential signings and managing players ahead of the next phase of the season