Real Madrid is pulling out all the stops to motivate their squad for the FIFA Club World Cup. Club president Florentino Perez has reportedly promised the players a bonus even bigger than what they got for winning the Champions League—a serious statement, given how prestigious (and lucrative) that tournament is. The exact figure isn’t spelled out, but it’s clear Madrid sees this as a must-win event.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about money—it’s about prestige. Real Madrid’s willingness to dangle such a hefty reward shows how much they value the Club World Cup, even if some fans see it as a lesser trophy. For the players, it’s a mix of financial incentive and bragging rights, and for the club, it’s another chance to cement their status as football’s global elite. Plus, it’s a juicy peek into how top clubs operate behind the scenes.

Hong Kong football powerhouse Kitchee has hired former Brighton defender Inigo Calderon as their new head coach, hoping he can turn things around after a disappointing season. Calderon steps in following Edgar Cardoso’s departure, who left after Kitchee failed to win any trophies for the first time in over a decade. The move was reportedly facilitated by John Morling, a key figure in Hong Kong football with ties to Brighton’s academy.

Editor’s Note: Kitchee is betting on Calderon’s experience—both as a player and his coaching background—to revive their fortunes. For fans, this signals ambition after a rare slump, and Calderon’s connection to Brighton’s system (via Morling) suggests a strategic hire rather than a random gamble. It’s a big moment for Hong Kong football, where Kitchee’s success often lifts the entire league’s profile.