Real Madrid -- Just a fan's blog!

Real Madrid fullback set for Chelsea?

2007-07-27T18:49:00.001+06:00

Chelsea Football Club are believed to be interested in Cicinho.

Manager Jose Mourinho is keen to solve his long-standing right fullback problem, with the Portuguese coach remaining unconvinced by compatriot Paulo Ferreira.

Glen Johnson has returned to the Stamford Bridge squad this season following a lengthy loan spell at Portsmouth, and although the Blues will give him a chance, Cicinho has emerged as a genuine target.

The Brazilian international has endured an injury-ridden time at the Bernabeu since his move from Sao Paulo in 2005, and may relish the chance to prove himself in The Premiership.

From Spain, Cassano-Solari swap?

2007-07-27T18:37:00.000+06:00

Spanish newspaper Marca writes Inter and Real Madrid are discussing the possibility of a swap deal between Inter midfielder Santiago Solari and Real’s Antonio Cassano. In Solari’s case it would be a comeback to his former club, whereas Cassano, at odds with the merengues, would be more than happy to return to Serie A and work with a manager who has always been a fan of his.

Transfer Rumors related to the Big Clubs of Spain.

2007-07-24T23:20:00.000+06:00

Player/Country	Current club	New club	Rating	Position/Comments	Pointer
Pepe (BZL / POR)	Porto (POR)	Real Madrid	5	DF Also got fed up waiting for Chivu and went for younger alternative. Fee €30 Mio?	new

Boulahrouz (HOL)

Chelsea (ENG)

Sevilla

DF Versatile defender joins on loan with €8 Mio buy out clause at end.

new

Helguera / Salgado

Real Madrid

Manchester City (ENG)

DF Surplus to requirements at Bernabeu and could join Sven. Valencia also keen on Helguera.

new

Eto'o (CAM)

Barcelona

Arsenal (ENG)

FW Have to give this a "1" right now, but story could develop?

new

Keita (MAL / FRA)

Lens (FRA)

Sevilla

MF Leaves French club to sign 4 year contract at Sevilla.

new

Pedro Léon

Murcia

Real Madrid

MF Have offered €1 Mio for youth international, although gcould go on loan if he signs.

new

Javi García

Real Madrid Castilla

Deportivo La Coruña

MF U20 World Cup star could go out on loan if Schuster has no place for him.

new

Lafita

Zaragoza

Deportivo

FW Young forward will have to go out on loan this season. Terms already agreed.

new

Luis Fabiano (BZL)

Sevilla

Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR)

FW Have received formal offer of €11 Mio from Ukrainian club.

new

Belletti (BZL)

Barcelona

Roma (ITA)

DF Wouldn't object to him moving on, although Roma only want him on free transfer.

new

Aitor Ocio	Sevilla	Athletic Bilbao	5	DF Agreed 3 year deal with new president, so will return to old club in next few days.	+
Alves (BZL)	Sevilla	Chelsea	3	DF Bid €20 Mio and have issued ultimatum. Sevilla want €30 Mio though.	+

Baptista (BZL)

R Madrid / Arsenal

Galatasaray (TKY)

FW Returning after swap deal with Reyes, but may have to move on.

Cassano (ITA)

Real Madrid

Inter Milan (ITA)

FW Both Milan's have asked about him, but only want him on free transfer.

Cesc	Arsenal (ENG)	Real Madrid	0	MF Has told Madrid he wants to stay at Arsenal for another year at least.	-
Chivu (ROM)	Roma (ITA)	Real Madrid	0	DF All deals fell through after player and agent priced themselves out of market.	-

Del Horno

Valencia

Athletic Bilbao

DF Quique says he has no place for him, so may have to move on. Could go back to Athletic?

Deco (POR)	Barcelona	Newcastle (ENG)	2	MF No more talk about Lampard swap, but Big Sam may be making a move?	+
Diego Tristán	Mallorca	Xerez	3	FW Is prepared to play for local club to relaunch career if no better offers received.	+

Drenthe (HOL)	Feyenoord (HOL)	Real Madrid	4	MF Close to agreeing terms, but could be loaned back to Feyenoord for one season?	+
Dudek (POL)	Liverpool	Real Madrid	5	GK Was close to joining Recre, but Madrid made better offer after Toldo deal fell through.	+

Ezquerro

Barcelona

Athletic Bilbao

FW Will be moving on, and could return to old club now that elections over.

Gaby Milito (ARG)

Zaragoza

Barcelona

DF Got ahead of Madrid and Juve to sign him on 4 yr deal. Fee agreed around €18 Mio.

Giuly (FRA)

Barcelona

Mónaco (FRA)

MF Not expected to play much and wants to return to old club. Man City asking too.

Gudjohnsen (ICE)

Barcelona

Man Utd / Newcastle

FW Not sure if he will stay after mediocre season. Has offers from England.

Hugo Viana (POR)	Valencia	Osasuna	5	MF Got ahead of Murcia to sign him on loan, with €4 Mio buy out clause.	+
Huntelaar (HOL)	Ajax (HOL)	Real Madrid	0	FW Already has too many forwards, so deal not likely.	-

Kanouté (MAL)

Sevilla

Portsmouth (ENG)

FW Redknapp has offered €7 Mio, but Sevilla won't sell unless bid at least doubled.

Maxi López (ARG)	Barcelona / Mallorca	Sporting Lisbon (POR)	0	FW Thought new loan deal was tied up, but hit snags and now seems to be off.	-
Mejía	Real Madrid	Mallorca	4	DF Several teams interested in signing him, but islanders current favourites.	+

Motta (BZL)	Barcelona	Mallorca / Zaragoza	3	MF On transfer list and many clubs asking, including Sven's Man City.	+
Negredo	Real Madrid Castilla	Osasuna	4	FW Depor and Almería want him amongst others, but now close to move to Pamplona.	+

Pablo García (URU)	Real Madrid / Celta	Murcia	5	MF No place on return from loan, and will move on after Murcia made big offer for loan deal.	+
Palacios (ARG / ESP)	Boca Juniors (ARG)	Barcelona	4	MF Boca have bought out 100% of rights from Huracán to sell him on, although may nor be this season?
Pavón	Real Madrid	Panathin- aiikos (GRE)	4	DF Still has not taken up any offer, but now has an interesting one from Greece.

Raúl Bravo	Real Madrid	Olympiakos (GRE)	5	DF Will pay €2 Mio for full back, who signs 4 year contract with Greek side.	+
Reyes	Arsenal	Real Madrid	4	FW Schuster wants him to stay on after loan, and only question now of fee.	+
Riquelme (ARG)	Villarreal / Boca Jnrs	Atlético Madrid	3	MF Will probably decide future once Copa America finished. Several clubs asking.	+
Robben (HOL)	Chelsea (ENG)	Real Madrid	4	MF Pushing hard to sign him, and may tie up deal at around €20 Mio.	+
Saviola (ARG)	Barcelona	Real Madrid	5	FW As expected, has agreed four year contract and will move between old enemies.	+

Soldado	Real Madrid / Osasuna	Villarreal	0	FW Returns to Bernabeu after loan, and looks like he will staying after extending contract.	-
Toldo (ITA)	Inter Milan	Real Madrid / Betis	0	GK Too expensive for both in the end, and Dudek and Ricardo signed instead.	-

Raul: Reborn Real to reinforce.

2007-07-24T23:17:00.001+06:00

Real Madrid captain Raul believes the Spanish champions will continue to strengthen over the summer as they look to win La Liga in style next season.

Real claimed the Primera Liga title on the last day of last season, but even a dramatic victory over bitter rivals Barcelona was not enough to save coach Fabio Capello as he was accused of deploying negative tactics and an uninspiring side.

Bernd Schuster has since been installed at the Bernabeu and Real have reinforced their squad with the captures of Pepe, Christoph Metzelder, Jerzy Dudek and Javier Saviola.

With David Beckham's departure signalling the death throes of the Galactico era, Raul now expects the club to bring in further fresh blood as they look to build a team capable of thrilling fans in a manner befitting of their predecessors.

"The club say that the team is not full, that other players can come, as they are looking to build a more competitive team," Raul told Marca.

"In attack, the four strikers can go all season (Raul, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Gonzalo Higuain and Saviola). There are a lot of people in defence and in the midfield of the pitch, a player can be missing.

"The most important is winning and if we can do it with nice football, then it is far better.

"At the end of the day, when you have won titles, you must have done something good for it.

"Today, it is very difficult to play spectacular football. I think that thanks to unity, sacrifice and the talent that we have, we can win titles."

KAKA RULES OUT MADRID MOVE.

2007-07-24T23:08:00.000+06:00

AC Milan playmaker Kaka has ended speculation over his future by declaring the "door is closed" on a move to Real Madrid, even though he has admitted to meeting with the Spanish champions.

The Brazil ace has reportedly been the target of a world-record bid from Madrid, but insists he sees his future with the Champions League winners.

"I have never asked to leave, terminate my contract or have any get-out clauses at Milan," he said.

"I see myself being a symbol of a great squad and I hope that this can be Milan."

The 25-year-old was instrumental in Milan's road to Athens glory last season and the fans - several thousand of whom arrived to greet him at the start of pre-season training on Monday - can look forward to seeing more of his magic in years to come.

He said: "They [the fans] don't have to worry. I have a contract until 2011 and the door to Real Madrid is closed.

"Only Milan can reopen it if they decide to sell me."

And Real would already be at an advanced stage with the player if the Milanese club did decide to take an offer seriously.

"Just like Milan look to strengthen by searching out other players, Real did so by searching me," admitted the South American.

"There was a meeting with Real Madrid, but the first to know about it was Milan.

"Real Madrid are a huge club but, as even Pele said, money is not everything. I have learned from friends who left Milan and are suffering away from this club."

Sergio Ramos Ready To Move To The Right.

2007-07-24T23:04:00.000+06:00

Sergio Ramos looks set to become Real Madrid's full-time right-back following the arrival of Pepe and Christoph Metzelder to play in the centre of defence.

The Spain international has returned to the position where he made his name at Sevilla and admits that he will happy playing anywhere across the back-line.

"They haven’t told me anything specific yet, but I am ready to play wherever Schuster tells me to.

"It seems like I may be a right back because of how I’ve been positioned during training. I’ve been lucky enough to play both there and as centre back on this team.

"The only thing I know for sure is that I will do my best at all times because I want to play."

As reports continue to grow that Madrid are preparing to return to the transfer market to bolster their squad, Ramos admits that he has been impressed with the new arrivals so far.

"That’s not up to us to decide," he continued. "Two excellent centre backs have joined the team this summer and we may get even more reinforcements."

While los Merengues continue their search for a star signing, Barça have already hit the headlines with their summer recruitments, but that does not worry Ramos.

"Every team does what it can to strengthen itself," he stated. "We are happy with our new players and we will welcome more if they are to arrive.

"We believe we achieved our main goal last year and we will now have to start from zero again."

New Madrid boss, Bernd Schuster, has changed the dynamic of training at the club, but has not allowed his players to escape with an easy pre-season.

"It is normal to undergo such hardships in the pre-season, we have both physical and tactical sessions," Ramos said.

"Every coach is different and players like to combine both things during training. We are very happy with Schuster."

Guti happy with Real's new recruits.

2007-07-24T22:58:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid playmaker Guti believes the Spanish champions do not need to make any more additions to their squad this summer.Although a host of players have left the Bernabeu this summer, Madrid have also been busy drafting fresh blood in, with Pepe, Javier Saviola, Jerzy Dudek and Christoph Metzelder all new arrivals.

Roberto Soldado and Julio Baptista have also returned from their loan spells, but despite those reinforcements Real are still being linked with further signings, such as Arjen Robben, Jose Antonio Reyes, Kaka and Roysten Drenthe.

Guti, one of Real's three club captains last season, insists he would still welcome any new players into the fold, but feels that Real now have enough strength in depth without needing to make any extra signings.

"The team has a good squad and there are some players who aren't here with us (at Real's training camp in Austria) that have a lot to give, such as Julio Baptista," he said.

"There are many players in the squad and we will all enjoy several minutes of playing time this season. Nevertheless, I will welcome any new signings, even if they are for my position, but I personally feel we have enough players as it is.

"We are a strong team with players capable of playing for many minutes during one game.

"The important thing is that the club is signing players we need as opposed to signing stars. This is what we need in order to be strong challengers for every title," added the 30-year-old, who insists he is not concerned about Real being linked with new signings who play a similar role to him.

"If they come it would mean the team has more chances of using a rotation system. I have no problems with this because I believe I can bring a lot to the team and I will make things difficult for any newcomer," he said.

Real Madrid give up on Riquelme?

2007-07-23T23:15:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has given up on trying to sign Argentinean midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme, currently at Villareal. Calderon said: “He is a great player but he is not part of our plans.” El Mundo Deportivo newspaper writes that the player’s agents offered him to Real Madrid, who are looking for a great signing after failing to get their hands on Kaka. The merengues, are actually still trying to sign Riquelme, as manager Schuster is a big fan of his, and also because he does not have much faith in young midfielder Gago. Should the club fail to sign Riquelme, Schuster will most likely play Guti in the central midfielder role.

Cassano not part of the squad.

2007-07-23T23:12:00.000+06:00

Antonio Cassano is not among the 23 players called up by Real Madrid manager Schuster for pre-season training, which will take place in Irdning (Austria). No official explanation has been given by the club, not even by captain Raul, who said: “You would have to ask the sporting directors about this. He did not show up for training today and that’s all we know, that he won’t travel with us.” After today, the player’s departure from the club seems closer than ever.

Zidane's last goa video for Real Madrid.

2007-07-22T01:35:00.000+06:00

Zidane's Last Goal - Funny video clips are a click away

MADRID JUST FAB FOR CANNAVARO.

2007-07-22T01:32:00.000+06:00

Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro claims he will stay with Real Madrid.

The 34-year-old reigning FIFA World Player of the Year joined the Spanish giants shortly after leading the Azzurri to World Cup glory last year, winning the Primera Liga title in his first season with the club.

Some had linked the defender with a return to former club Juventus, who

are back in Serie A after being relegated for match-fixing 12 months ago.

But Cannavaro said: "In Italy they are saying I will come back but it's not true.

"I have always said I am happy at Real Madrid and Spain generally and I am proud to play for this club.

"I will definitely stay at Real Madrid."

Dudek completes Madrid move.

2007-07-22T01:24:00.000+06:00

Liverpool’s Champions League penalty shoot-out hero Jerzy Dudek has signed a two-year deal with Spanish champions Real Madrid.

The 34-year-old Poland international was released by Liverpool at the end of last season after failing to dislodge Pepe Reina from the first-choice spot at Anfield.

He will be the reserve keeper at Real, behind Spain international number one stopper Iker Casillas.

After Dudek’s Real medical, Dr. Del Corral told Real Madrid's website: "He is 34 but he is as fit as a young player. He is a true athlete."

Dudek joined Liverpool from Dutch club Feyenoord for nearly £5 million in 2001, but his relationship with coach Rafael Benitez has became strained over the last season.

Heinze move to Liverpool is vetoed.

2007-07-19T23:06:00.001+06:00

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has ruled out the possibility of letting defender Gabriel Heinze join Premier League rivals Liverpool.

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez made a £6 million ($12 million) bid for the 29-year-old Argentine on Monday but it was rejected by United. Heinze has also been linked to both Real Madrid and Inter Milan.

But Ferguson has made it clear he will not allow Heinze to head to Merseyside, a route travelled only once since the War, when Phil Chisnall joined United's bitter rivals in 1962.

"I can assure you Liverpool will not be getting Gabriel Heinze," said Ferguson. "We have had a couple of offers and we have turned them down."

Heinze reportedly told Ferguson earlier this month that he wanted a move but because he was playing for Argentina in the Copa America they did not have the opportunity to speak since.

"Heinze's agents are rolling the ball all the time but no matter what his agent thinks, we are in the driving seat," said Ferguson.

"I don't exactly know what Gaby thinks because it is all coming from his agent but this has been going on for a year-and-a-half now."

The deadline for Heinze to invoke a buy-out clause has now expired. Had the Argentine stated his intent to pay up his two-year contract, United could not have stopped him joining Liverpool.

Real and Barca in Spanish money merry-go-round

2007-07-19T22:26:00.000+06:00

Newly-crowned Spanish champions Real Madrid and runners-up Barcelona have killed the proverbial fatted calf this summer in an attempt to establish preeminence in La Liga next season.

Valencia have not been far behind as they also seek to challenge the top two, who have spent more than 100 million euros (130m dollars) between them.

Real have captured German international defender Christoph Metzelder from Dortmund and Pepe from Porto while landing Javier Saviola - on a free transfer - from Barca, as well as taking Spanish international forward Roberto Soldado back from his loan at Osasuna.

New coach Bernd Schuster hasn't finished there as Real also try to secure a transfer for Jose Antonio Reyes, who was on loan last season from Arsenal, as well as pluck winger Arjen Robben from Chelsea.

With such an influx defenders Michel Salgado and Ivan Helguera, who has Fabio Cannavaro, Sergio Ramos, Metzelder and Pepe ahead of him in the central defensive peckingorder, will be seeking new employers.

Alvaro Mejia is already set to join promoted Murcia for two million euros, according to Marca sports daily, and the club are as yet without bidders for misfit Italian striker Antonio Cassano.

Barca, beaten to the wire in the title race, have landed four players to date after agreeing to sign Argentine international Gabriel Milito from Zaragoza for a reported 20 million euros, ten million less than Real paid for Pepe.

Barca had earlier splashed 24 million euros on Thierry Henry, having chased the former Arsenal man for more than a year, though it remains to be seen if he can fit into a forward line already comprising Samuel Eto'o, Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho.

Also coming in is French defender Eric Abidal from Lyon for some 15 million euros and Ivory Coast youngster Yaya Toure.

Barca sporting director Txiki Begiristain explained: "We have fulfilled our objective of strengthening the team and now we have to work on who is leaving so we can end up with the desired squad on August 31 (season starts)."

French midfielder Ludovic Giuly, who won the Champions League with Barca in 2006, has agreed to join AS Roma for an initial 3.2 million euros, rather than the six million the Catalan club hoped for, though another 1.2 million could come if he helps the club qualify for the Champions League.

Barca also want to offload Santi Ezquerro to former club Athletic Bilbao, along with Brazilian Thiago Motta and Maxi Lopez, a striker who spent last season on loan with Mallorca.

Valencia have gone with youth in signing 21-year-old defender Alexis and 23-year-old striker Javier Arizmendi along with German keeper Timo Hildebrand, 28, from Stuttgart, with 37-year-old Santiago Canizares now in the twilight of his career.

Coach Quique Sanchez Flores is set to offload defenders David Navarro, Asier del Horno, formerly of Chelsea and Curro Torres as he plots an improvement on last year's third place.

UEFA Cup winners Seville have signed up Mali midfielder Seydou Keita from French side Lens and taken Dutch defender Khalid Boulahrouz on a year loan from Chelsea.

Real Madrid offer Cicinho for Chelsea's Robben!!!

2007-07-18T22:06:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid are willing to include fullback Cicinho in their offer for Chelsea winger Arjen Robben.
The Blues are holding out for £15m, having already rejected £13.5m bid for Robben.

The Dutch winger's father Hans and lawyer Tom Smith are negotiating with both clubs to try to rush through the deal for Robben to fly home from Chelsea's training camp in Los Angeles and join Real's pre-season in Austria.

Real sports chief Pedja Mijatovic said: "Chelsea have never indicated they want a player.

"We would be happy to change if they did, but this transfer will probably only involve cash."

Comments:
-------------

I think Real Madrid must not sell Cicinho because he is very talented Right Winger Back and it could be like Beckham. Because he is great player and can change a match witin a second.

Robben is important, must Cicinho is also not less important. He is one of the best Right Wing Back in the World this time I think.

Reyes: Only Real Madrid for me.

2007-07-18T21:59:00.000+06:00

Arsenal winger Jose Antonio Reyes admits he's eager to see his move to Real Madrid wrapped up as quickly as possible.

"That is what I want more in the world right now. I already have done everything that I could from my end," said Reyes.

"I made it clear to [Arsene] Wenger that I want to continue wearing the Madrid shirt.

"I'm very calm, that's the truth. I know what it is happening through my representatives. I do not have anything left other than to hope."

Cannavaro 'turned down Chelsea'

2007-07-18T21:57:00.000+06:00

Fifa World Player of the Year Fabio Cannavaro has rejected the chance to join Chelsea, according to his agent.

The Real Madrid defender, 33, has been the subject of speculation since Real dismissed coach Fabio Capello.

Cannavaro's agent Gaetano Fedele said Chelsea made an offer "but we postponed everything due to Real Madrid's wish".

"New Madrid coach Bernd Schuster has said that Fabio is untouchable. It's highly unlikely that Fabio will leave Real Madrid at least this year."

Cannavaro joined Real from Juventus shortly after skippering Italy to World Cup glory last summer, and is under contract with the Spanish champions for a further two seasons.

"Fabio is in Madrid where he has adapted very well," said Fedele.

"They have won a championship and hence I don't think there is a possibility he will leave Madrid.

"Fabio's wish is to win the Champions League and the only team that can let him do that is Real Madrid."

Zaragoza pounce for Pavon.

2007-07-18T21:55:00.000+06:00

Real Zaragoza have snapped up Real Madrid defender Francisco Pavon just 24 hours after confirming the capture of Argentina international Roberto Ayala.

Pavon has agreed a four-year deal with Zaragoza after being deemed surplus to requirements at the Santiago Bernabau following the signings of Christoph Metzelder and Pepe.

The 27-year-old, who was linked with a move to Bolton Wanderers earlier this year, came through the youth team ranks at last season's La Liga champions, making more than 100 appearances for the club.

Zaragoza have moved quickly to strengthen their defence after allowing Gabriel Milito to sign for Barcelona earlier this summer.

Mejía Set To Make Real Murcia Move.

2007-07-18T21:48:00.000+06:00

Álvaro Mejía has ended his long battle to win a place in Real Madrid's first team after accepting a move to newly-promoted Real Murcia.

The 25-year-old defender has been at the Bernabéu for nine years despite the fierce competition for place, but this summer's new arrivals have forced him out.

Bernd Schuster has been busy reorganising his squad since taking over from Fabio Capello last week and Mejía was told he was surplus to requirements.

Since being promoted to the first team at Madrid in 2003, the locally-born player has made only 40 appearances for the club.

Despite several offers from abroad and interest from other top flight clubs in Spain, Mejía is set to put pen-to-paper on a four-year deal at la Nueva Condomina.

Mejía will join Pablo García in Murcia after the Uruguayan international agreed to move to the club from Madrid on a year-long loan deal.

Coach Lucas Alcaraz has been busy since guiding the club to promotion from la Segunda A at the end of last term and has made considerable changes to his squad.

Along with the two Madrid players, Murcia have also brought in Mario Regueiro from Valencia, Paco Gallardo from Sevilla, Enrique De Lucas from Alavés and Arzo from Villarreal.

Robben agrees personal terms with Real Madrid!!!

2007-07-18T21:42:00.000+06:00

Report Says that-

Chelsea's Dutch international Arjen Robben has agreed personal terms over a move to Spanish champions Real Madrid, the BBC said Wednesday.

A transfer fee is yet to be agreed upon by the two clubs but according to reports from Spain the Chelsea winger's deal is expected to fetch around 20 million euros (26 million dollars).

The 23-year-old Robben, who has two years left on his contract with the London outfit, has been touted for weeks as a Real Madrid target and the Spanish club's president Ramon Calderon believes it is just a matter of time before they capture his signature.

"It is a negotiation which will take place in coming days or weeks," Calderon told Spanish radio station Onda Cero.

"If the situation is favourable financially, I think that he is a player who could be brought in."

Robben has been in long drawn-out negotiations with Chelsea over a contract extension until 2012 but has not always been in favour with the club's Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho.

With the Blues having last week signed France international winger Florent Malouda from Lyon on a four-year contract for some 20 million euros Chelsea may opt to take Real's cash for Robben having covered their flank.

Ajax's Sneijder contacted by Real Madrid.

2007-07-18T21:37:00.000+06:00

Ajax winger Wesley Sneijder has already been contacted by Real Madrid about a move to Spain.

Marca says the Holland international's agent, Soren Lerby, held talks with Real last week after coach Bernd Schuster had asked his new board to go for the midfielder.

Sneijder has already attracted a bid of £8 million from Valencia this summer and Real must see off their Primera Liga rivals to land the winger.

Valencia are set to try again for Sneijder after being priced out of a deal for Porto ace Lucho Gonzalez.

Madrid could turn to Espanyol's de la Pena

2007-07-18T21:31:00.000+06:00

Unable to sign AC Milan's Kaka or Cesc Fabregas from Arsenal, the next best answer for Real Madrid could be Espanyol's Ivan de la Pena.

Spanish daily ABC reported Tuesday that the former FC Barcelona midfielder was being lined up by new coach Bernd Schuster to fill the attacking midfielder spot that either Kaka or Fabregas was earmarked for.

De la Pena is out of contract after four seasons at Espanyol, which he helped guide to the UEFA Cup final in May and a Copa del Rey trophy in 2006.

The former Lazio and Marseilles player was once considered one of Spain's brightest attacking midfielders, earning five call-ups for Spain.

Baptista Wants To Stay With Madrid.

2007-07-18T21:22:00.000+06:00

Julio Baptista has said that he is keen to stay at Real Madrid after the club's technical secretary said that he hoped the Brazilian would stay.

The 25-year-old returned to the Bernabéu after a year on loan at Arsenal and revealed that he wanted to prove himself at the Bernabéu.

While Fabio Capello was still in charge a question mark hung over Baptista's head and he was linked with away from the Spanish giants.

After an impressive performance for Brazil in the recent Copa América, however, Madrid's technical secretary, Miguel Ángel Portugal, said that he hopes the player stays.

"It pleases me that they have praised me because I want them to have faith in my football," Baptista told Punto Radio.

"What I really desire is to play for Real Madrid and to succeed there.

"I do not want to look for another team. If you sign a contract, and you are happy, you do not wish to change team."

Baptista is now hoping to win the confidence of new Madrid coach, Bernd Schuster, during their pre-season training camp in Irdning, Austria.

"I hope that he is good for Real Madrid and all of us," he continued.

"What I want is to be able to help, and to be able to play, and if the trainer trusts you, even better."

New sigining......

2007-07-17T01:42:00.000+06:00

Real Madrids new signings.............................................

Christoph Metzelder (Borussia Dortmund) :

Intelligent Defender. the German is an upcoming star. I think that's a good sign by Real Madrid. He will help to make Real Madrid defense more strong.

Kleper Pepe (FC Porto)

This is a sudden signing from FC Porto. But might be a good one. He could be a defending wall for Real Madrid.

Javier Saviola (FC Barcelona)

Nothing to say about it. Best signing for Real Madrid untill now. And more important is that he is signed from FC Barcelona.

Jerzy Dudek (Liverpool)

The veteral Polish keeper is new backup keeper for Real Madrid. He is in the place of Diego lopez who recently being transferred to another Spanish club. He is a good goalkeeper and I think that's also a good signing.

Real Madrid snap up Boca Juniors pair

2007-07-17T01:10:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid have signed Boca Juniors pair Santiago Villafane and Juan Forlin.

Both players are 19 years old and saw action for Argentina in this month's U20 World Championships. Villafane is a left-sided wing-back, while Forlin plays at centre-half.

The pair, who will soon receive their Italian passports, will spend the next two seasons on-loan at Real's Castilla team, with the Madrid giants having the option to make the deal permanent.

Real Madrid transfers untill now.

2007-07-15T01:41:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid

Transfers in: Schuster - manager (Getafe) Soldado (Osasuna - loan period ended) Metzelder (Borussia Dortmund) Pepe (Porto) Saviola (Real Madrid) Dudek (Liverpool) Miguel Torres (junior teams)

Transfers out: Capello - manager (contract rescinded) Reyes (Arsenal - loan period ended) Beckham (Los Angeles Galaxy) Roberto Carlos (Fenerbahçe) Diego López (Villarreal) Raúl Bravo (Olympiakos) Miñambres, Pavón (contracts ended)

Transfers in and out: Diogo (Zaragoza - loan period ended, transferred) Pablo García (loan period at Celta ended, on to Murcia) Baptista (Arsenal - loan period ended, transferable) Woodgate (Middlesbrough - loan period ended, transferred)

Castilla Transfers untill now.

2007-07-15T01:34:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid Castilla

Transfers in: None.

Transfers out: Casilla (Espanyol) Borja Valero (Mallorca) Mata Valencia) Rodri Elche)

Transfers in and out: Balboa (Racing Santander - loan period ended, transferable)

Bernd Schuster appointed as new coach of Real Madrid.

2007-07-12T01:30:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid has appointed Bernd Schuster as the new coach. He is appointed in the position of Fabio Capello who has recently being sacked.

The German, Bernd Schuster was the coach of another Spainsh side Getafe, and his performance as a coach there was excellent.

The former Madrid player wil coach Real Madrid in the next season and he is already started to think about the upcoming season.

Fabio Capello have been sacked!

2007-07-10T01:26:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid's Italian coach Fabio Capello have been sacked inspite of winning the league after three season.

Real Madrid authority decide to sack him due to non-attacking playing style of the Italian coach.
I am very much disappointed to see this because he done a very good job from my view.

But I think the reason worked for his sacking is that his defensive mentality because Spanish Football is based mainly on attacking play and Real Madrid is one of the team who always want to attack the opposition.

Another reason could be selling David Beckham who was in top form at the end of the league.

Real Madrid is the new league champion of the season 2006-07.

2007-06-30T01:21:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid won the Spanish La Liga Title of the season 2006-07.

After three unsuccessful season, Real Madrid finally got a successive season.

Due to this performance, we congratulate all our readers, fans and all Real Madrid supporters around the world.

Real Madrid Castilla have been relegated.

2007-06-30T01:17:00.000+06:00

After 2 season, Real Madrid Castilla have been relegated from Division 2A to Division 2B.

This is a bad news for the young Madristas. But I hope they will come back soon in the Division 2A soon.

Sorry!!!

2007-06-30T01:15:00.001+06:00

We are very sorry due to uncontinuence of the site. But we will try to be regular from today. We are very sorry for this.

Match Report: Real Madrid Vs Sevilla

2007-05-07T19:39:00.000+06:00

MATCH REPORT

3 - Real Madrid: Casillas; Cicinho, Ramos, Cannavaro, Torres (Helguera, min.58); Diarra, Emerson, Beckham, Robinho; Raúl (Guti, min.58) and Van Nistelrooy.
2 - Sevilla: Palop; Dani Alves, Ocio, Escudé, Drago; Poulsen, Maresca, Renato (Níkel, min.63), Puerta; Kerzhakov (Chevanton, min. 72) and Kanouté.

Referee: Alfonso Pérez Burrull, Cantabrian refereeing Assocviation. Booked Miguel Torres (39'), Sergio Ramos (55'), and David Beckham (83') of Real Madrid, and Hinkel (66') and Chevanton (83') for Sevilla. Red carded Luis Fabiano on the sideline while he was warming up. He also sent Robinho, off after showing him the second yellow card for hugging the fans after scoring the 2-1 goal. Aitor Ocio was also sent off with a direct red card.

Goals:
0-1 (min.41): Maresca buries a volley in the back of the net.
1-1: (min.61) Amazing play by Guti and Van Nistelrooy puts it away.
2-1: (min.77) Once again, master assist of Guti for Robinho.
3-1: (min.86) Van Nistelrooy.
3-2: (min.90) Chevanton, from a free kick.

Highlights: Matchday 33 of La Liga hosted at a capacity Santiago Bernabéu stadium. Attendance: 80.000.

Real Madrid 3-1 Sevilla.

2007-05-07T19:35:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid

Sevilla

GOALS

Ruud van Nistelrooy	63
Robinho	78
Ruud van Nistelrooy	85

Enzo Maresca	41
Ernesto Javier Chevanton	90

RED CARDS

Robinho

Luis Fabiano	74
Aitor Ocio	83

YELLOW CARDS

Miguel Torres	40
Sergio Ramos	54
Robinho	78
David Beckham	84

Andreas Hinkel	67
Ernesto Javier Chevanton	84

Real Madrid, Barcelona battle for Chelsea's Robben.

2007-05-06T04:55:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid and Barcelona are going head-to-head for Chelsea winger Arjen Robben.

Both clubs are in the market for a new left-sided midfielder and have penned Robben at the top of their shopping lists, says DiarioSport.

Robben is weighing up his future at Chelsea, particularly with manager Jose Mourinho now staying on next season. The pair haven't seen eye-to-eye this term over Robben's injury record, though the Blues boss was full of praise for the winger over the way he performed on Tuesday night at Liverpool.

Robben was promised to Real fans by Ramon Calderon as he battled for last summer's presidency and remains a target for the Madrid club. Barca coach Frank Rijkaard, meanwhile, is a big fan of his fellow Dutchman and is convinced his versatility would fit well into his playing system.

Result: Real Madrid Castilla 2-1 Malaga.

2007-05-06T04:52:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid Castilla

Malaga

GOALS

Alvaro Negredo	48
Ruben De la Red Gutierrez	90

Pablo Counago

RED CARDS

Javier Calleja

Real Madrid trials for 'new Solskjaer' .

2007-05-04T04:39:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid have handed trials to Norwegian youngster Jo Sondre Aas.

A Norway U17 international striker, Aas is tied to Rosenborg and has been likened to Manchester United star Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Real Madrid's Norway scout, Jack Karades, has set up the trial, which will see Aas travel to Madrid this week to train with Michel's Castilla team and also be a guest in the director's box for Real's clash with Sevilla on Sunday.

Beckham will play for Real Madrid on Sunday

2007-05-04T04:33:00.000+06:00

The English player has had a yellow card cancelled, meaning he can play against Sevilla in the important league game

The Spanish authorities have cancelled a yellow card issued against David Beckham which means the Real Madrid player can take his place in the important league game against Sevilla in the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday.

Beckham was given the card during the match against Athletic, but following video evidence and the declaration of the Brazilian player Cicinho, the Competition Committee has cancelled it.

Sevilla complain that Real Madrid is being favoured by the Spanish Football Federation.

It’s of note how the Real Madrid manager, Fabio Capello, has gone from saying Beckham will never wear a Real Madrid shirt again, to counting on the player.

Real and Barça alerted by news of Chelsea clearout .

2007-05-04T04:30:00.000+06:00

According to Jose Mourinho, there are going to be changes at Chelsea in the wake of their Champions League semi-final exit earlier this week. The possibility that the likes of Lampard, Carvalho, Essien and Robben could be up for sale is reported to have aroused the keen interest of Real Madrid and Barcelona.

After failing to lure their top two targets to the club (Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaká), Real Madrid are likely to renew last summer's unsuccessful bid to sign Arjen Robben, who is very reasonably priced at €18 million euros.

However they could face competition from their Catalan rivals, who are also rumoured to be interested in signing Essien and Lampard to reinforce their midfield while Frank Rijkaard is also said to be interested in Portuguese defender Ricardo Carvalho.

NOTICE: We are back at our regular service after long days.

2007-05-04T04:02:00.000+06:00

Dear Readers & Viewers,

This blog was not updates regularly for long days. We are very sorry for this. But from now, we will try to be regular and we will update our blog regularly. We need your help and support. Hope it will not occur in future.

We posted several past articles on past date. But we didn't post the Match Results and Match summary and stats. But from now we will do it.

We are again very sorry for not updating the blog.

Thank you.

Results of April.

2007-04-30T04:28:00.000+06:00

Celta

1-2

R Madrid

2-0

Osasuna

Racing

2-1

R Madrid

2-1

Valencia

Athletic

1-4

R Madrid

Results of April of Castilla.

2007-04-30T04:23:00.000+06:00

Xerez

3-1

Castilla

1-3

Valladolid

Lorca

2-0

Castilla

3-1

P'ferradina

Elche

2-1

Castilla

Results of March.

2007-03-31T04:27:00.000+06:00

R Madrid

1-1

Getafe

Barcelona

3-3

R Madrid

2-0

Nàstic

Results of March of Castilla.

2007-03-31T04:21:00.000+06:00

Sporting

0-1

Castilla

0-3

Las Palmas

Ciudad

0-0

Castilla

4-1

Ejido

Results of January and February.

2007-02-28T04:26:00.000+06:00

Villarreal

1-1

R Madrid

0-1

Levante

R Sociedad

1-2

R Madrid

0-0

Betis

Atlético

1-1

R Madrid

Results of January and February of Castilla.

2007-02-28T04:17:00.000+06:00

Castilla

1-1

Castellón

Hércules

0-3

Castilla

1-1

Alavés

Albacete

1-0

Castilla

0-0

Numancia

Real Madrid board expresses support for Capello.

2007-02-05T04:13:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid's board of directors expressed support for manager Fabio Capello on Monday, a day after the club suffered its fourth loss in six games.

The board met following Madrid's 1-0 loss to Levante, which triggered protests at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium with many in the crowd demanding Capello's resignation. The loss left Read Madrid in fourth place, five points behind league leader FC Barcelona.

"Fabio deserves all our confidence," club sport director Predrag Mijatovic said. "Capello continues as coach and things haven't changed.

"What we have to do is work harder, resolve our sport problems and trust that at the end of the year we'll be happy," added Mijatovic, who played for the club from 1996 to 1999.

Board spokesman Miguel Angel Arroyo told reporters Capello needed more time to carry out his changes.

"He is the only one capable of carrying out the renovation of Real Madrid that we all want," Arroyo said.

Madrid's loss to Levante was its first in history against the small team. Madrid was eliminated from the Copa del Rey last month, beaten by Real Betis in the fifth round.

The team has scored 28 goals in 21 league matches, its fewest in the 16 years.

Madrid was playing its 1,000th league game at the Bernabeu but first since Ronaldo completed a 7.5-million-euro (C$11.5 million) move to AC Milan on Tuesday.

Under Capello, Real Madrid also has seen David Beckham commit to transferring to the Los Angeles Galaxy after the European season is complete. Beckham watched Sunday's game from the stands.

Madrid has not won a trophy since 2003 — its longest drought since the early 1950s. Capello was hired in July as Madrid's sixth coach in three years.

Ronaldo joins Milan from Real Madrid.

2007-01-31T04:12:00.000+06:00

Read the full story by clicking the header.

Ronaldo Rage Key to Milan Move!

2007-01-22T22:58:00.000+06:00

AC Milan aren’t just opening their bulging wallet to throw a few millions at Real Madrid when they can get something for – what appears to be – nothing.

Rossoneri negotiator Ernesto Bronzetti has revealed that the Fenômeno’s phenomenal anger at what he sees as persecution at the White House is the key to a return to Milan.

"The key to a successful and agreeable transfer is in Ronaldo’s ‘incazzatura’ [rage]”, explained the exec who’s got the task of bringing the number 9 back to San Siro on a free transfer.

He went on to adopt a sever bargaining position that makes it clear that if Madrid are holding out for a 10 million Euro Rossoneri offer then they’re just holding out for heartbreak.

Bronzeti knows full well that the player has to go public to demand a move in order to get Madrid to release him for free as a throbbing headache rather than a solid investment.

"Milan are now waiting for an answer from Ronaldo and Galliani has opened the Milanello doors for him. It’s something that Ronaldo needs to resolve”, he stressed.

“The Ronaldo issue has reached stalemate right now, but that was predictable as they were playing in Mallorca and all their chief executives are there while Ronaldo is in Madrid with his son"

With an announcement expected this week one way or the other s the transfer window gets ready to slam shut there were a few choice words comparing Ronaldo to Figo.

“Milan are waiting for Ronaldo to come forward and make a decision, but I don’t see him burning with desire to learn Arabic”, he jabbed in reference to a supposed Al-Ittihad 10 million Euro bid.

“He’s only 30, not 34 or 35 like Figo, so he’s in a different position. What do we do now? We wait for him to decide”, ended the exec with a sly smile.

Sergio Ramos injured.

2007-01-22T22:39:00.000+06:00

The Sevillian suffered a sprained right ankle.

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos was replaced by Raúl Bravo in the second half of tonight's match after suffering a sprained right ankle. Once the team returns to the Spanish capital, the Club's medical services will assess the severity of the injury and determine the player's approximate recovery time.

MATCH REPORT: REAL MALLAROCA VS REAL MADRID.

2007-01-22T22:37:00.000+06:00

Crucial win thanks to a Reyes free kick gives the Whites a share of the top spot

Mission accomplished. Real Madrid will leave Mallorca with three points in hand thanks to a an absolutely beautiful free kick. The Whites had their fair share of chances to open up a bigger lead against a scrappy Mallorca who fought until the final whistle. Sergio Ramos withdrew in the second half due to injury. The second consecutive League victory gives the Madridistas a share of the top spot in the League table.

MATCH SUMMARY:
------------------------

0 – MALLORCA: Moyá; Héctor, Ramis, Nunes, Navarro; Jonás, Basinas, Jordi López, Varela (Jankovic 80’), "Caño" Ibagaza (Arango 71’); Maxi López.

1 – REAL MADRID Casillas; Ramos (Raúl Bravo 56’), Helguera, Cannavaro, Torres; Reyes, Diarra, Gago, Robinho; Higuaín (De la Red 86’) and Van Nistelrooy.

GOALS:
0-1, min. 77: Reyes free kick.

REFEREE: Fernández Borbalán (Andalusian Referee Association). Ibagaza (24’), Ramos (43’) and Diarra (66’) booked.

NOTES: Matchday 19 of the Primera Liga played at the Ono Estadi. Real Madrid wore black armbands in honour of the death of Vicente Boluda Crespo, father of Club Vice-President Vicente Boluda Fos.

Real Mallorca 0 : 1 Real Madrid.

2007-01-22T22:35:00.000+06:00

Real Mallorca

Real Madrid

GOALS

Jose Antonio Reyes

YELLOW CARDS

Ariel Ibagaza	25
Angelos Basinas	67

Sergio Ramos	44
Mahamadou Diarra	67

Real Madrid Castilla 0 : 1 Cadiz.

2007-01-21T22:33:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid Castilla

Cadiz

GOALS

Pablo Hernandez

Robinho: "It was a clear penalty".

2007-01-20T22:30:00.000+06:00

Robinho was one of the stars of tonight's match. He scored the Whites' only goal and could have scored many more. When Real Madrid were 1-0 up, the referee failed to award him a penalty.

"We didn't imagine a draw was possible. We played much better than them, especially in the first half. We are improving. What's important is that we played with passion. The tackle that brought me down in Betis' box was a clear penalty, but the referee didn't award it. During the game, I thought our disallowed goals weren't offside, but I was told otherwise at the end of the match."

Source: RealMadrid.com

Real Madrid out of the cup!

2007-01-19T22:27:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid are out of the cup on the away goals rule after drawing 1-1 in their second leg match with Betis.

The goal-less draw from the first leg gave Capello's side the advantage, and when Robinho fired home a deflected shot with only five minutes on the clock they appeared to be on their way to qualifying. But despite putting out a line up full of reserve players, Luis Fernández's side equalised when Dani headed past Diego López from close up after Maldonado headed on Isidoro's cross shortly before half time.

Referee Mejuto González ruled out goals by Higuaín and Helguera in the final minutes of each half for offside, and also turned down a penalty appeal by Robinho, and Doblas made important saves from Robinho and Sergio Ramos to see his side through to a quarter final tie with city rivals Sevilla.

Copa Del Rey: Real Madrid 1 : 1 Real Betis.

2007-01-19T22:23:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid

Real Betis

GOALS

Robinho

Dani

SIR BOBBY: BECKHAM MOTIVATION HAS GONE.

2007-01-15T15:31:00.000+06:00

David Beckham´s lack of motivation to continue playing at the highest level prompted his move to America, according to former England manager Sir Bobby Robson.

Robson is convinced the decision of national boss Steve McClaren to overlook the Real Madrid midfielder for the Euro 2008 qualifier in Croatia last October, despite a long injury list, convinced Beckham his days at the top were numbered. And the 73-year-old believes that was the first step on a road which has eventually led Beckham to LA Galaxy.

"The decision killed Beckham´s aspiration and hope and, in my view, led directly to this week´s announcement that he is off the the United States for a very lucrative semi-retirement," Robson claimed in his column for the Mail on Sunday.

Real boss criticises Beckham for signing US deal.

2007-01-15T15:25:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid boss Fabio Capello still has not spoken to David Beckham about his decision to join LA Galaxy.

Capello is upset that Beckham signed a five-year deal before telling Real and the former England captain has been told he will not play for the club again.

Capello said: "He signed his contract before he spoke with Madrid and for me that doesn't seem right."

Beckham did not break any rules because players are free to talk to sign deals when they have less than six months left on their existing contracts.

But Capello is also concerned that Beckham is no longer committed to Real because he has a lucrative deal in the US.

He added: "I believe that if a player already has a contract elsewhere then it is not correct to count on him anymore. I still haven't spoken to him."

Beckham watched Real Madrid's game against Real Zaragoza from the private boxes on Sunday, but his team-mate Ruud van Nistelrooy revealed after the game that he is still on good terms with the squad.

Van Nistelrooy said: "Before the game he was in the dressing room, wishing us well, it was good to see. His attitude is always good, caring for the team, for the club. That's what he will keep doing.

"As players we care for each other and feel for one another if things happen that are not nice for another one. That's what I had with David.

"We try to support him, be there for him as much as we can. We can't change what has happened unfortunately."

Ronaldo Has Permission To Speak With Al-Ittihad!

2007-01-15T15:18:00.000+06:00

According to Sunday’s electronic edition of popular Saudi financial daily ‘Al-Eqtesadiya’, Al-Ittihad have been given the green light by Real Madrid to talk to the Brazilian striker.

“We are dealing directly with the player now that we have secured the go-ahead signal from Real Madrid,” the Saudi club's chief was quoted as saying.

“I do personally hope that our strong willingness and commitment to secure the services of Ronaldo will finally pay off and ease the way towards getting his official agreement soon,” he added, without mentioning the financial terms of the proposed offer.

Ronaldo also has been linked with a Beckham-esque move to MLS, specifically to the New York Red Bulls. Those rumors, however, appear to be only that at this point.

Various reports on Sunday have also linked Ricardinho (Besiktas Istanbul) with a possible swoop should the Ronaldo deal fail to materialize. Inter's Luis Figo already has agreed to join Al-Ittihad at the end of the European season.

Comments:
---------------

I think it will be a great mistake if Real Madrid sell Ronaldo. Because he is a great player and I think he still have ability to show something and bring glory to Real Madrid again if ge has got chance. So I think it will not be a good decission if Real Madrid allow him to leave. And I think Capello will understand it and keep him in the squad and will play him in the matches. Because all we know what Ronaldo can do when he is in form.

Raul and Gago niggled.

2007-01-15T15:12:00.000+06:00

Captain Raul González and newcomer Fernando Gago were injured during the League game played against Zaragoza. The number '7' had to leave the pitch in the 15-minute mark after ascertaining that the pain that he felt in the back of his thigh was not subsiding. He has a pinched hamstring on his right leg. He will report for training on Monday and the Club's doctors will proceed to perform further tests.

Meanwhile, Fernando Gago finished the match with a strong blow to his right leg quadriceps.

Chelsea close in on Real teenage sensation.

2007-01-15T15:11:00.000+06:00

Chelsea are close to sealing a deal for the latest sensation to emerge from the Real Madrid academy, Juan Mata.

Mata currently plays for Real's B team scoring six goals from an attacking midfield position this season.

Spanish under 19 international Mata's father is a close friend of Juan Cruz Sol - Chelsea sporting director Frank Arnesen scouting presence in Spain.

Match Report: Real Madrid Vs Real Zaragoza.

2007-01-15T15:09:00.000+06:00

MATCH REPORT:
-----------------------

Real Madrid: Casillas; Torres, Cannavaro, Helguera, Raul Bravo; Diarra, Gago, Reyes (De la Red, min.70), Raul (Robinho, m.15); Higuaín and Van Nistelrooy.

Zaragoza: Cesar; Piqué, G. Milito, Juanfran; Sergio , Zapater, Celades (Movilla, min.55), Aimar, D’Alessandro (Óscar, min. ); Ewerthon (Sergio García, min.55) and Diego Milito.

Referee: Miguel Ángel Ayza Gámez. Booked Gago (min.25), Piqué (min.30), Milito (min.33), Diarra (min.47), Sergio (min.50), De la Red (min. 73), Aimar (min. 80), Zapater (min.90).

Goals:
1-0: Van Nistelrooy, after a service by Higuaín.

Highlights: Week 18 of La Liga played at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium.

Real Madrid 1 : 0 Real Zaragoza.

2007-01-15T15:07:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid

Real Zaragoza

GOALS

Ruud van Nistelrooy

YELLOW CARDS

Fernando Gago	26
Mahamadou Diarra	47
Ruben De la Red Gutierrez	74

Gerard Pique	29
Fernandez Sergio	50
Pablo Cesar Aimar	81
Alberto Zapater	90

Almeria 1 : 0 Real Madrid Castilla.

2007-01-15T15:06:00.000+06:00

Almeria

Real Madrid Castilla

GOALS

Mena

Match Report: Copa Del Rey: Real Betis Vs Real Madrid.

2007-01-13T15:03:00.000+06:00

MATCH REPORT:
-------------------------

There was little to talk about in last night's scoreless draw between Betis and Real Madrid. It was a level match between two teams that will meet again next Thursday to determine who will move on to the quarterfinal round of the King's Cup. Gonzalo Higuaín, who made his debut in white, put on an excellent performance on the turf of the Ruiz de Lopera Stadium, while Roberto Carlos had to withdraw minutes into the match due to injury.

0- BETIS: Contreras, Melli, Nano, Romero, Arzu, Rivera (Assunçao 74’), Vogel, Maldonado (Capi 74’), Wagner, Xisco (Fernando 59’), Dani

0- REAL MADRID: Diego López, Roberto Carlos, Helguera, Sergio Ramos, Torres, Diarra, Gago, Robinho, Reyes, Higuaín, Van Nistelrooy (Raúl 71’).

REFEREE: González Vázquez (Galicia Referee Association).

NOTES: First leg of the Last 16 of the King's Cup played at the Manuel Ruiz de Lopera Stadium. Attendence: approximately 35,000. Real Madrid President Ramón Calderón and Sporting Director Pedja Mijatovic attended the match from the Presidential Balcony.

Copa Del Rey: Real Betis 0-0 Real Madrid.

2007-01-13T14:58:00.000+06:00

Real Betis		Real Madrid
0		0

Gago and Marcelo got debut.

2007-01-08T17:56:00.000+06:00

Two new signings of Real Madrid Fernando Gago and Marcelo have their debut against Deportivo La Coruna yesterday.

Cristiano Ronaldo Rumors Shrugged Off.

2007-01-08T17:48:00.000+06:00

Rumors surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo leaving Manchester United have been shot down by the club's boss.

"That's nonsense," said Sir Alex Ferguson. "First of all they haven't made an offer anyway. That's not even worth talking about, it's not even an issue for us."

"They" applies to the Portugal International team.

But reports have surfaced that Real Madrid is ready to make an £27 million bid for Ronaldo.

Neither United nor Real would comment on the report this past week, which also claims that the Reds would want a near-world record of £47m to part company with the player they signed for £12m, says the Manchester Evening News.

Ferguson has since come forward however to quash the Real Madrid rumors.

"It's nonsense," he told reporters. "Firstly, I can tell you they have not made any offer. And, secondly, it's not even an issue for us, so it's not worth talking about."

Ferguson remains keen on recruiting Owen Hargreaves but admitted there had been no fresh developments with Bayern Munich over his transfer from the Bundesliga giants.

He added "There is nothing to report at the moment."

Shevchenko tipped for La Liga swap deal.

2007-01-08T17:43:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid are reported to be lining up a swoop for Andriy Shevchenko and will offer Brazilian striker Ronaldo as part of the deal.

Shevchenko is continuing to struggle with his form at Stamford Bridge and according to reports in Spain, Real are keen to offer him a route out of the Premiership this January.

The Ukranian striker has been continually linked with a return to Italy with former club AC Milan but Chelsea have always denied the rumours and insist he is going nowhere.

Now Real are said to be in the hunt and are ready to throw Ronaldo into the deal in an effort to persuade Chelsea to sell.

Chelsea are unlikely to entertain the idea though as Ronaldo is cup-tied in the Champions League this season and would not be able to figure for the Blues when play resumes in February.

Guti injured.

2007-01-08T17:31:00.000+06:00

The playmaker has a sprain on his right anckle.

Guti had to leave the pitch soon after the start of the match due to twisting his anckle in a confrontational play with a Deportivo defender. The medical exam after the match revealed he has a sprain on his right anckle. On Monday, a more detailed analysis will be made at Valdebebas to determine the estimated time for his recovery.

Raúl: "We did nothing right".

2007-01-08T17:28:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid's captain talked to the press after the match and made no excuses, saying that the players were responsible for the defeat.

"We always suffer when we don't have control of the ball and today has been very similar to the match against Recreativo Huelva in that respect. Deportivo proved to be dangerous in counterattacks and we never managed to have solid chances on goal."

"Right now we must rest and tomorrow we must talk about what happened tonight. We all tried hard but we did nothing right. We must talk about what we must improve at."

"We make no excuses. We simply haven't played well. We are responsible for this bad image. This shouldn't happen again. We had a chance to get closer to Barcelona and Sevilla, but we didn't use it correctly."

"I expect fans to be bitterly disappointed. We must try to win by playing well. This hasn't been Gago and Marcelo's ideal debut, but they're great players. I'm sure they will do great things for Real Madrid."

MATCH REPORT: Deportivo La Coruna Vs Real Madrid.

2007-01-08T17:26:00.000+06:00

MATCH REPORT:
----------------------

2- Deportivo La Coruna: Aouate; Manuel Pablo, Andrade, Arbeloa, Capdevila; Duscher, De Guzmán; Estoyanoff (Barragán, 88’), Riki (Juan Rodríguez, 78’), Cristian; and Arizmendi (Valerón, 89’).

0- Real Madrid: Casillas; Salgado (Marcelo, 57’), Helguera, Cannavaro, Sergio Ramos; Reyes, Emerson, Gago (Ronaldo, 57’), Reyes; Guti (Beckham 10’); and Van Nistelrooy.

GOALS:
1-0, 9': Capdevila. Free-kick.
2-0, 55': Cristian finishes off a pass along the goaline by Arizmendi.

REFEREE:
Ramírez Domínguez, from the School of Referees of Navarra. Booked Salgado (11’), Riki (14’), Cannavaro (22’), Sergio Ramos (58’), Beckham (67’) and Ducher (85’).

HIGHLIGHTS: Matchday 17 of the Spanish League. Riazor Stadium. Higuaín, Robinho and Kiko Casilla were dropped from the 21-man Real Madrid squad list minutes before the start of the match. Míchel Salgado's booking is his fifth this season and it will make him miss next weekend's match against Zaragoza.

Deportivo La Coruna 2-0 Real Madrid.

2007-01-08T17:25:00.000+06:00

Deportivo La Coruna

Real Madrid

GOALS

Juan Capdevila	10
Cristian Hidalgo	56

YELLOW CARDS

Ivan Sanchez Riki	14
Aldo Pedro Duscher	84
Cristian Hidalgo	90

Michel Salgado	12
Fabio Cannavaro	22
Sergio Ramos	59
David Beckham	66

Real Madrid Castilla 0 : 2 Real Murcia.

2007-01-08T17:12:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid Castilla

Real Murcia

GOALS

Abel	53
Adrian Martin	88

De la Red challenges Real Madrid over Getafe move.

2007-01-08T15:39:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid youngster Ruben de la Red is in the middle of a battle of wills with the club's sports director Pedja Mijatovic.

Mijatovic has agreed a deal with Getafe for the young playmaker, but De la Red would prefer a move to Victor Fernandez's Real Zaragoza, says Marca.

Real Madrid do not want to sell De la Red and is happy with the six-month loan proposal tabled by Getafe. Zaragoza have also made an offer - for the permanent signing of De la Red, which is the player's favoured option.

A decision is expected inside the next 48 hours.

Former Madrid player Luis Figo signs 18-month contract with Saudi club.

2007-01-08T12:35:00.000+06:00

Former World Player of the Year Luis Figo has signed an 18-month contract with Al Ittihad for an undisclosed sum, the Saudi club said on Sunday.

"I can confirm that Luis Figo of Inter Milan has signed an official contract with Ittihad starting on July 1, 2007," Ittihad director-general Rafat Turki told Reuters.

"I have no right to release the value but we concluded a deal acceptable to both sides that is the highest, not just in the Middle East, but in Asia for a player that is worth the value."

Italian and Saudi newspapers had been reporting for weeks that the 34-year-old Portuguese midfielder, whose contract with Inter Milan expires at the end of the season, was on the brink of moving to the Jeddah-based club.

Inter Milan dismissed the report several days ago saying in a statement on its website that there was no negotiation under way.

Inter coach Roberto Mancini, who was in Bahrain with his team for a training camp and a friendly against Bahrain's national team, told the Gulf Daily News that Figo would stay at least until his contract expired at the end of the year.

But Turki said Ittihad had clinched the deal in Bahrain on Thursday night.

The club had earlier delayed announcing the deal until the contract was signed, raising media speculation that the talks had fallen through.

Ittihad issued a statement on the same day saying the talks were delayed because Figo had demanded he be paid 70 percent of the agreed sum in his first six months at Ittihad, during which time he would be allowed to end the contract for any reason.

"The negotiations took almost 2-1/2 months. To get a player of such skill and prestige takes time," Turki said.

"A couple of hours after the press conference we were able to conclude the deal."

Figo began his career at Sporting Lisbon and played for Portugal in the 2006 World Cup.

He played for Barcelona and Real Madrid before joining Inter at the start of the 2005-6 season.

Beckham Close To Real Decision.

2007-01-05T21:02:00.000+06:00

David Beckham appears to be close to reaching a decision over whether or not he should stay at Real Madrid and accept the Merengue renewal offer or if he should seek out one final challenge before hanging his boots up.

Although the time frame – Becks’ contract expires at the end of June 2007 – means that he can now approach and be approached by other clubs about future contracts, the English midfielder is giving priority to the White House.

"Last season we had talks about renewal but after that we changed President and then we changed Coach…there were a lot of changes and we had to start all over again but I’m sure it’s a subject that we’ll sort out very shortly”, he explained to Spanish mag ‘Futbolista'. (Footballer).

"My family and I are very happy living here in Madrid and I’m very happy playing for Real Madrid, and how my family feels is really important to me", stressed Beckham before going on to talk about a personal taboo that he’s still burning to break: the Merengue trophy drought.

Beckham’s arrival coincided with the beginning of a trophy drought that has lasted from the 2003-4 season to the current 2006-7 – something the midfielder wants to change before he leaves the Spanish capital.

"Personally I’d like to win La Liga, but a football player can’t say that he doesn’t want to win the Champions league even if he’s won it before. I don’t know what we’ll win but I do know that this year we have to win something", Beckham explained.

Real Madrid bid for Cristiano Ronaldo!!!

2007-01-05T20:57:00.000+06:00

Spanish giants Real Madrid have made a bid for on-fire Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo.

Real, without silverware for four years, have bid 40 million euros for the 21-year-old Portugual international in an effort to sign him in the January transfer window, the Madrid-based ABC daily has said Thursday.

But the English Premiership leaders have no intention of letting go of the in-form Ronaldo, who scored three consecutive doubles for his club over the holiday period, and have slapped a price tag of 70 million euros on him, ABC said.

It was not possible to confirm the report at Real Madrid.

Franck Ribéry could move to Real Madrid.

2007-01-05T20:53:00.000+06:00

23 year old midfield player for Olympique de Marsella, Franck Ribéry, has admitted that he has held contacts with both Real Madrid and Arsenal.

However he said that he will not decide his future until the end of the current season. He’s in demand despite being off the pitch for two months with a groin strain.

Joleon is the real deal!!!

2007-01-05T20:42:00.000+06:00

THE opening of the transfer window is always guaranteed to spark a number of weird and wonderful tales created to go alongside the genuine deals.

For every one that has a grain of truth, there will be those that are the figments of someone's overactive imagination and - more often than not - will be found circulating at tremendous speed through cyberspace.

One such rumour that emerged recently of which Evertonians may or may not be aware, involved Real Madrid making Joleon Lescott a prime target.

When told the story, David Moyes simply smiled and shook his head in disbelief.

Just to ease any anxieties, there is more chance of David Beckham coming to Goodison Park in the next few weeks than Lescott heading to the Santiago Bernabeu.

With each commanding performance, the 24-year-old has quickly become one of Everton's leading lights.

Faultless on and off the pitch since his summer move from Wolves, Lescott will bid to enhance his reputation once again on Sunday when Blackburn come to Goodison for an FA Cup third round clash that has assumed huge importance.

If Everton are going to maintain an interest in this season's competition beyond the weekend, both Lescott and Joseph Yobo will have key roles to fill in keeping an in-form Benni McCarthy - the South African has scored 12 times since arriving from FC Porto - shackled.

Yobo, however, is adamant that Lescott is up to the task.

Having proved himself a more than helpful room-mate on away trips, the Nigerian international has been similarly impressed with the way his sidekick has made the transition from Championship to Premiership.

Both men have occasionally had to play out of position during the campaign but when paired together in the centre they have helped Everton keep six of their nine clean sheets.

Now Yobo has his sights fixed on improving that record.

"We have had a lot of injuries and we don't really have a big squad," said Yobo. "Everyone here has got to be able to do a job. I was just doing my best when I was out there but now I am happy playing in my best position.

"But I have been very impressed with Joleon. Very, very impressed.

Beckham offered two-year Real deal.

2007-01-04T01:34:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid have offered a two-year contract extension to David Beckham and will hold talks with the former England captain's representatives during the next two weeks.

"We have a definite offer on the table which is for two more years and is worth slightly more than his existing deal," Beckham's spokesman Simon Oliveira said on Wednesday.

"We will be sitting down in the next couple of weeks to discuss things, but one thing that can be assured is that it is 100 percent certain that David will not be leaving Real during the January transfer window.

"He is determined to play a full part for Real for the remainder of the season."

Beckham's contract with Real expires at the end of June and as of January 1 the 31-year-old has been free to talk to other clubs.

Several teams in England, Italy and the United States are reported to be interested in recruiting the midfielder.

Spanish and British media have said a possible new deal with Real Madrid was being held up because of a dispute over image rights with the club wanting to retain its present 50 percent share.

Oliviera denied that image rights were a stumbling block.

"Any decision that is going to be made will be a footballing decision," he said. "His worth needs to be recognized but that is not a make or break part of the process.

"No decision has been made at the moment but we hope that we will know what is happening by March."

Beckham was a fixture in the Real Madrid starting lineup in his first three seasons at the club, but he has lost his place since Fabio Capello took charge as coach at the start of the present campaign.

He has started just five of Real's 16 league games and appeared as a substitute in another seven.

Cassano Banned from training.

2007-01-04T01:32:00.000+06:00

Controversial Italian forward Antonio Cassano is edging nearer the exit door at Real Madrid, according to the Spanish press who said Wednesday he had been kicked out of training by his coach Fabio Capello.

Cassano, who joined Madrid a year ago from Italians Roma, has struggled to gain a first team spot at Real.

And with Capello signing highly-rated Franco-Argentine striker Gonzalo Higuain last month, Cassano's path to the first team seems to be blocked by ever more obstacles.

When asked if his arrival could hasten Cassano's departure, Higuain replied: "I have come here to win a place in the team.

Whether Cassano is here or not changes nothing." Earlier this week, Real president Ramon Calderon admitted Cassano had failed to adapt to his new surroundings.

Figo will stay at Inter, insists Mancini.

2007-01-04T01:26:00.000+06:00

Inter Milan manager Roberto Mancini insisted on Wednesday that Luis Figo is staying with the Italian League champions.

"Figo is an Inter player and he will stay at Inter," Mancini was quoted as saying by Calcio Italia magazine said upon arrival in Bahrain to play their national side during the winter break.

The Portuguese winger was linked with a move to Ittihad Jeddah on a luxurious six-month offer.

The Saudi side claimed that they have finalized the deal and said Figo will sign the contract in a huge press conference in Dubai in the second week of January.

Mancini also brushed aside reports saying that Real Madrid midfielder David Beckham is targeted by Inter.

"Furthermore, just as Figo is an Inter player, Beckham is a Real Madrid player. And out of respect I never talk about players who belong to other clubs," he said.

Real Madrid president: We want Roma's Chivu, Alexis.

2007-01-04T01:18:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has confirmed they're chasing Roma defender Cristian Chivu and Getafe youngster Alexis.

Calderon revealed their plans on Tuesday after being asked about their interest in Marseille sensation Franck Ribery.

"I've listened to [sporting director] Predrag Mijatovic speak highly of Ribery, but at the moment we're also thinking of signing a defender like Alexis or Chivu," Calderon told the Marca newspaper.

Happy New Year 2007!!!

2007-01-01T00:34:00.000+06:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2007!!!

Happy New Year to all of my blog readers and Real Madrid players, officials and fans.

Wishing you all a very happy and enjoyable new year.

Liverpool linked with Real's Beckham.

2006-12-31T23:26:00.000+06:00

Liverpool's prospective owners Dubai International Capital (DIC) are keen on signing up Real Madrid's David Beckham, according to a newspaper report.

The Sunday People claims that the new owners feel a move for ex-Manchester United midfielder Beckham would reassure supporters that their bid is more than a short-term, money making exercise.

Beckham is out of contract at the end of the season and looks certain to leave the Bernabeu after failing to win over new boss Fabio Capello.

Los Angeles Galaxy and New York Red Bulls, and some Serie A clubs have already made contact with his agent, according to the News of the World.

Madrid president Ramon Calderon insists that he wants to keep the former England skipper: "After the conversations we have had in recent months, David Beckham already has our offer for a new contract on the table. Now he has to decide.

"All of us would like to see him continue at our club and extend his contract."

Real Madrid president: Ramos will get new deal.

2006-12-31T12:17:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon has assured fans they will secure defender Sergio Ramos to a new contract.Ramos is waiting to open talks over a new deal, with his situation alerting the interest of Italian giants AC Milan.

Aware of Milan's move for the defender last week, Calderon said: "I have not made any promise to Sergio Ramos. It seems, according to what has been confirmed to me by Pedja Mijatovic, that this promise came from the previous management, when they assured him a revision of his contract.

"But we cannot do that halfway through the season because it would create conflicts, as many players in the group are in a similar situation.

"Anyway, if the club had made him a promise, it will be necessary to fulfill it when the case arrives."

Inter To Go For Diarra?

2006-12-31T11:25:00.000+06:00

To strengthen their midfield the Nerazzurri have put their eyes on Real Madrid player Mahamadou Diarra.

For the moment it's only an interesting idea, but the coming summer Mahamadou Diarra may become one of the most recurrent names in the Nerazzurri offices. The transfer gurus of Inter are monitoring the Mali midfielder's situation, whose feeling with Real is becoming feeble although last summer Fabio Capello pushed for his purchase from Lyon. Will the fracture be recomposed or is it the beginning of a separation in June, after only one season? We will see. As they expect news, however, technical director Branca and market consultant Oriali have already put the African player's name on their shopping list.

The reason for the great cold between the player and Real occurred last 17 December, a few minutes before the start of the match against Espanyol. Diarra was recorded by Canal Plus while he was talking with Cassano and Ronaldo about Capello. Cassano blatantly imitated the Italian coach and criticised his rotation system, with Diarra, a good friend of Cassano, agreeing while Ronaldo did not say anything negative. The consequence was that Cassano and Diarra were left out of the squad for the home game against Recreativo Huelva, which was lost 3-0. At today's training session Diarra was present as normal, but the decisive moment will come on 7 January in the game against Deportivo. Will he be on the pitch again or will Capello continue punishing him?

Real Madrid president: It's now up to Beckham.

2006-12-30T20:54:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon says it's up to David Beckham to decide if he wants to play on at Santiago Bernabeu.

Real sports chief Pedja Mijatovic, having not heard from Becks nor his agents in the last week, contacted the England ace yesterday to organise a meeting for December 31 to discuss his contract. Real have offered Beckham a new two-year deal on the same salary - �4 million - plus a 50:50 split of his image rights.

For his part, Calderon said last night: "After the conversations that we have maintained in the last months, David Beckham already has our offer on the table. Now it is he who has to decide.

"We are very happy with David and we all would like that he continued with the club and that he renews his contract."

Real Madrid will win trophy this season - Robinho.

2006-12-30T20:50:00.000+06:00

Robinho is convinced the current Real Madrid team can deliver a trophy to it's fans this season.

The Brazilian wing ace told AS: "I feel that this year something can be won. The defeat against Recre has left the fans with a very bitter taste in their mouths, but the certain thing is that we are alive and with possibilities in the three competitions.

"People are very nervous and I hope that this Christmas has helped us to recall what happened to us in the Bernabeu.

"I am anxious to win something and I have the feeling this year we will at least win one title. The Liga or the Champions League or both."

Asked about a personal ambition for 2007, Robinho replied: "I am not going to lie to you: I would like to be able to be the best player in the world."

Madrid consider buying Ribery, report says.

2006-12-30T20:27:00.000+06:00

Spanish first division club Real Madrid are considering signing France international Franck Ribery if David Beckham leaves at the end of the season, Marca newspaper reported on Friday.

If unsettled Beckham leaves, Real is thinking about signing the 23-year-old Marseille midfielder, the paper said.

Ribery shot to the top clubs' eyes in France's run to last summer's World Cup final.

Source: Xinhua

Rossoneri Target Ramos Deal.

2006-12-30T14:26:00.000+06:00

AC Milan are reportedly trying to seal a deal to sign Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos.

The 20-year-old stopper has become a key figure at the Santiago Bernabeu since a £19million move from Sevilla in the summer of 2005.

But now the Rossoneri are hoping to prise him away from the Spanish capital and take him to Serie A.

According to Spanish daily Marca, the Italian giants have met with Rene Ramos, Sergio's brother and agent.

The paper says Milan offered a five-year deal for the player, but the answer was negative with Ramos happy to stay with Los Galacticos for now.

Ronaldo wants to keep playing while he still have a passion for it.

2006-12-30T14:21:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid's Brazilian striker, Ronaldo Luiz Nazario de Lima, said in Rio de janeiro that he will continue playing while he still has a passion for it. The World Cup's greatest scorer said that he doesn't think too much about the future when setting his own personal goals. This has made his possible future participation in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa -during which he would be 34 years old- a mistery.

I don't think ahead too much. I don't think about 2010. I only want to keep playing while I still have a passion for it," said Ronaldo on Brazilian television programme Globo Esporte.

Ronaldo played a friendly match today with other Brazilian footballers such as Emerson and Gabriel.

Despite making great efforts and showcasing speed, Real Madrid's striker didn't score any goals.

Former Madrid player Figo joins Al Ittihad.

2006-12-30T12:40:00.000+06:00

UNSETTLED Inter-Milan star Luis Figo has joined Saudi Arabian side Al Ittihad for US$8 million ($12m).

The former Barcelona and Real Madrid winger signed a six-month deal to play for the two-time Asian champions.

The 34-year-old will move to Saudi Arabia next week.

Al Ittihad won the Asian Champions League in 2004 and 2005, but were knocked out in the quarter-finals this year.

Robinho seeks food at charity match.

2006-12-27T14:44:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid's Brazilian striker Robinho has brought together a team of Brazilian soccer greats to play a charity match, and asked fans to contribute food before seeing the game.

'It is a great joy to return to the Santo stadium, my second home, and to help Brazil's charities,' said Robinho.

His team includes Diego, Elano, Renato, Leo and Deivid, who were former Santos players but now play for various European clubs.

Corinthians player Carlos Alberto will lead the opponent team. The team will feature players like Deco, who plays for Spanish league team Barcelona, as well as Vagner Love, Romario and Falcao, who plays five-a-side football.

Robinho asked fans to donate at least one kilogram of non-perishable food at the entry to the stadium.

'We will play in white, the colour of peace, friendship and union between people,' Robinho added.

Cassano set for Real exit.

2006-12-27T14:40:00.000+06:00

Italian international striker Antonio Cassano is set to end his nightmare year at Spanish giants Real Madrid.

The 24-year-old five million euros buy from AS Roma is not wanted by coach Fabio Capello - under whose aegis he played at Roma - after failing to settle and a series of incidents which irritated the team management.

"They have had enough of his moodswings," said sports paper AS on Tuesday.

"Capello and sports director Pedja Mijatovic want him to leave."

Several Italian clubs including Roma, who bought him for 28million euros shortly after they won the 2001 Scudetto, and AC Milan could be interested in Cassano according to the paper, though, Real will not let him go for just any price.

Also his estimated wages of 4million euros a year could complicate any eventual transfer.

Cassano's international career has suffered accordingly since he scored on his Italy debut against Poland in November 2003 and played for the Azzurri at the 2004 European championships in Portugal where they went out in the first round group stage.

Subsequent to that he was left out by Marcello Lippi because of his expanding waistline and loss of form and not even the move to Real last January could reignite his faint hopes of making the World Cup squad.

He has, though, caught the eye of Lippi's replacement Roberto Donadoni having been included in one of his squad's for two Euro 2008 qualifiers though he was subsequently dropped from the next two.

Real president Calderon: Gago capture like winning lottery.

2006-12-24T22:25:00.000+06:00

Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon said the signing of Argentine midfielder Fernando Gago was like winning the lottery.

The 20-year-old passed a medical and completed his US$27mil move from Boca Juniors to Real, putting pen to paper on a six-and-a-half year contract.

“Today is the draw for the (Spain’s famous Christmas) lottery, yet we have already won. Our prize is right here,” Calderon said on Friday as Gago was presented to the media.

“It hasn’t been easy to bring him here. But I would like to thank him for giving up a large amount of money to choose us, when so many others wanted his services.”

Gago joins teenage Argentine striker Gonzalo Higuain, and Brazilian fullback Marcelo as the club’s recent new signings, as the nine-times European champions look to rejuvenate their squad.

“This trio of aces, along with the players emerging from the youth teams, allow us to take a step towards a new generation of players who will bring freshness and new hope to the fans,” Calderon added. “By combining veterans with youth we will put this club back on the road to success.”

Gago has been likened to Argentine midfielder Fernando Redondo who played with Real between 1994 and 2000, but the youngster wanted to distance himself from these comparisons.

“I don’t feel under any pressure being likened to Redondo. He is my idol and has been since I was young, but we are very different players,” said a softly-spoken Gago.

“I know I will have to adapt to a different style of play here but I will do it calmly and patiently like I did at Boca.

“This is the club of my dreams and I want to achieve great things here and to be a success in European football.”

Real Madrid win option on Boca Juniors star trio.

2006-12-24T22:23:00.000+06:00

Boca Juniors' rejection of a Barcelona bid for Rodrigo Palacio may be linked to the Argentine club's new relationship with Real Madrid.

After turning down a �13 million bid from Barca for the striker, Boca president Mauricio Macri revealed Real had negotiated first option on three of their players - defenders Matias Cahais and Jonatan Maidana plus midfielder Ever Banega.

"Before we sell, Real Madrid have the opportunity to match any offer for them," confirmed Macri.

Macri is close friends with Real director Franco Baldini and worked with the Madrid club's powerbrokers over the sale of Fernando Gago last week.

Jésus Gil Trophy: Atletico 0-0 Real Madrid (4-3).

2006-12-23T22:21:00.000+06:00

MATCH REPORT:

0 (4) - ATLETICO MADRID: Cuéllar; Molinero, Pablo, Azcárate, Antonio López; Galletti, Jurado, Gabi, Mista; Torres and Agüero. Zahínos, Ballesteros, Víctor Bravo, Marcos Martín, Miguel Ramos, Batres, Pollo, Vara, Falcón (reserve keeper), Jacobo and Raúl Llorente also played

0 (3) - REAL MADRID: Diego López; Michel Salgado, Pavón, Cannavaro, Raúl Bravo; Guti, De la Red; Nieto, Raúl, Reyes; Alvaro Negredo. Mejía, Miñambres, Iván Helguera, Adrián González, Bueno, Borja Valero and Sergio also played.

PENALTIES: 1-0: Jacobo, goal. 1-1: Borja Valero, goal. 1-1: Víctor Bravo, Diego López save. 1-2: Adrián, goal. 2-2, Batres, goal. 2-2: Bueno, miss. 3-2: Zahínos, goal. 3-3: Negredo, goal. 4-3: Pollo, goal. 4-3: Nieto, Falcón save.

REFEREE: Carlos Megía Dávila (Madrid Referee Association).

NOTES: Second edition of the Jesús Gil y Gil Memorial Trophy organised in honour of the former Atletico Madrid President who passed away in May 2004. Match played at the Vicente Calderón Stadium in front of 25,000 fans. A minute of silence was held before kickoff in honour of those season ticket holders from both sides who passed away in 2006, as well as the four Recreativo Huelva supporters who died last Wednesday in a coach accident. The proceeds of tonight's match will go to the Brain Injury Association of Spain and the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Madrid. The match was also played under the slogan 'A touch against gender discrimination'.

Jésus Gil Trophy squad list.

2006-12-23T22:17:00.000+06:00

Neither the Brazilians, Ramos nor Van Nistelrooy to play

Twenty-two men have been called up by Fabio Capello for Friday's friendy against Atletico Madrid. Marcelo finds his name on this list for the first time as a Madridista, while Ramos and Van Nistelrooy will not play. Diarra and Cassano are still recovering from injury and the Brazilians were granted one extra day of vacation.

Sergio, Negredo, De la Red, Adrián González, Nieto, Borja Valero, Bueno and Granero are the eight Castilla players Fabio Capello has included on the squad list for Friday's match against Atletico Madrid. They join everyone from the First Team, with the exception of the Brazilians (Roberto Carlos, Emerson, Robinho and Ronaldo) who were granted on extra day of vacation by the Club, Ramos and Van Nistelrooy, and Cassano and Diarra, who are recovering from adductor problems.

Meanwhile, Marcelo will defend the Real Madrid shirt for the first time. He has yet to be given the opportunity to show what he is truly capable of on the pitch, and Madridistas will get their first chance to see the left back in action on Friday night. Also making the list for the first time this season is Miñambres, who has recovered from his knee injury.

Tomorrow's Jésus Gil Trophy II friendly will also be a good chance for Helguera. The centre back was unable to play against Recreativo Huelva, so this match could be the first stepping stone in making his return from the medical report.

SQUAD LIST:

Goalkeepers: Casillas, Diego López .

Defenders:Cannavaro, Salgado, Helguera, Pavón, Mejía, Raúl Bravo, Miñambres, Marcelo and Sergio.

Midfielders: Beckham, Reyes, Guti, De la Red, Adrián, Granero, Nieto and Valero.

Forwards: Raúl, Negredo and Bueno.

Not called up: Roberto Carlos, Emerson, Robinho, Ronaldo, Cassano, Diarra, Sergio Ramos and Van Nistelrooy.

Pre-match preparation: Friday @ 8 pm CET at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.