The highly rated Romanian international defender has been monitored by Real for a couple of seasons. Now it seems Barca are in pole position with a possible bid with Roma for the Centre Back.
Inter are also supposed to have made their interest in Chivu.
The bid is supposedly close to the 12M mark.
Claims by several media in Spain have confirmed Christoph Metzelder to join Real Madrid this season.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Tot bid for Darren Bent
Tottenham Hotspur have bid for Darren Bent with relegated Charlton Athletic. Charlton had accepted a bid from West Ham for the highly rated striker but Bent rejected the move.
The earlier bid from West Ham was valued at close to 17M. I have seen a few Charlton games and this guy is definitely a young and exciting striker.
If the move happens Trotters will have one of the most envied Strike force, with Berbatov, Keane and Defoe already in their ranks....
The earlier bid from West Ham was valued at close to 17M. I have seen a few Charlton games and this guy is definitely a young and exciting striker.
If the move happens Trotters will have one of the most envied Strike force, with Berbatov, Keane and Defoe already in their ranks....
"Winning is not all that matters"
The board of Directors of the Spanish Champions have decided to axe their title winning Coach Fabio Capello after one season in charge. Sounds familiar at Real Madrid? oh sure... Carlos Quieroz, Luxemburgo, have all see less than one full season in charge in the past few years.
As Beckham once said " If we had as many titles as the number of coaches we would be the best team in Europe"...he has a point.
You look at this decision and feel is Real Madrid crazy? Well a new coach every year is less than appealing. From a player perspective you get used to one style of play, a sort of discipline and again it changes. There is no way they would perform well togther.
Here is my perspective on Capello's term in charge:
"Van The Man"
Undoubtedly number 1 in the list is the signing of Van Nistelrooy. It was heard last year that Madrid was contemplating Drogba over Ruud and it was Capello who fought for the dutch striker. 25 goals later in the league and 33 in total that definitely was an outstanding choice.
"The Beckham Saga"
Winning the Spanish league is not small achievement, but it was not easy. At the winter break in January Madrid's last game was a 0-3 home drubbing. How did the turn around happen?
Well in the Winter David Beckham announced his multi million dollar move to MLS side LA Galaxy and Capello jumped in and claimed that Beckham will not play again for Real as he would not have the commitment to do so. Well wrong call that is the simple answer. Lack of commitment from Beckham hard to digest right? But Capello convinced everyone but not the dressing room. Raul the influential captain met with Director and the Chairman and the decision had to be reversed. Capello has tried to save face by admitting multiple times openly that it was a mistake. The result-Beckham in the best form in 4 years, though he might not agree it was almost as if he was on a mission to prove Capello wrong.
"Italianization of Real"
Emerson and Cannavaro may have come to Real as part of their team building sporting decisions but no doubt they had support from Capello. Emerson for that matter was under constant scrutiny from the Bernabeu fans. Well the term Italianization became so common in the press because of Capello's tactics. Playing two defensive midfielders and playing one lone striker. January-March Robinho never was on the starting line up, he came off the bench to score some crucial goals. Fabio Cannavaro the World player of the year and the European player of the year was starting every game though he was having some mediocre games. Well the question who else does Capello have in defense? Helguera, is he not the one who Madrid put on the transfer list and no one was interested?
"The Transformation"
The transformation happened after January. Madrid got some luck definitely in their favor to win some crucial points. Capello got the injured Roberto Carlos back, Beckham was spectacular and Van Nistelrooy scoring in almost all games. Madrid even came up with a spell of the most away wins in their history. Capello gave charge of the dressing room to the Spaniards and the team had more of Raul, Helguera, Guti and Miguel Torres the find of the season from the B team. Ronaldo who was being more of a burden for Madrid was sold to Milan and in came two youngsters in the form a defensive midfielder Fernando Gago and a striker Gonzalo Higuain both from Argentina. The South Americans did have a decent run in the team and also provided to be excellent signings, but always a possibility of being loaned out as what happened to the two unknown lads from Uruguay.
"What is left behind"
Now the decision is public, what is left behind by Capello. The biggest strength of Capello is the discipline that he brings to the team and also instilling the feeling that no one has a secure position in the team, which naturally raises every one's performance. A team which was having more off field news than on field has been transformed into a team that gels and is believed toward the last 8 games that they could win the League. A new coach that come in will have an easier job than what Capello had summer last year.
"Possible replacements"
Getafe coach Bernd Shuster is definitely number one. He has transformed Getafe and he is in pole running for the Madrid coach role. Getafe president has claimed that if Real approaches Shuster directly they will report Real to UEFA.
Pedro Mijatovic has definitely announced a brave decision-the reason boils down to the fact that though Real won the league they did not play in a way that would thrill anyone. A club like Real with the history cannot play the style of football that Capello was using. The fans that fill the Bernabaeu week in week after do not want to see a defensive style of play, and the outspoken nature of Capello definitely does not go well with the Club. There are numerous clubs across Europe who have been successful in a similar style, such as Liverpool, Milan.
Capello would be a man who will be in Madrid history books. A man who has coached Madrid twice the last time in the 96/97 season and has won the League on both occasions. Now he walks away with a load of money as Madrid will have to honor the remaining two years in his contract.
Capello would be the first to openly learn the hard way that "Winning is not all that matters"
As Beckham once said " If we had as many titles as the number of coaches we would be the best team in Europe"...he has a point.
You look at this decision and feel is Real Madrid crazy? Well a new coach every year is less than appealing. From a player perspective you get used to one style of play, a sort of discipline and again it changes. There is no way they would perform well togther.
Here is my perspective on Capello's term in charge:
"Van The Man"
Undoubtedly number 1 in the list is the signing of Van Nistelrooy. It was heard last year that Madrid was contemplating Drogba over Ruud and it was Capello who fought for the dutch striker. 25 goals later in the league and 33 in total that definitely was an outstanding choice.
"The Beckham Saga"
Winning the Spanish league is not small achievement, but it was not easy. At the winter break in January Madrid's last game was a 0-3 home drubbing. How did the turn around happen?
Well in the Winter David Beckham announced his multi million dollar move to MLS side LA Galaxy and Capello jumped in and claimed that Beckham will not play again for Real as he would not have the commitment to do so. Well wrong call that is the simple answer. Lack of commitment from Beckham hard to digest right? But Capello convinced everyone but not the dressing room. Raul the influential captain met with Director and the Chairman and the decision had to be reversed. Capello has tried to save face by admitting multiple times openly that it was a mistake. The result-Beckham in the best form in 4 years, though he might not agree it was almost as if he was on a mission to prove Capello wrong.
"Italianization of Real"
Emerson and Cannavaro may have come to Real as part of their team building sporting decisions but no doubt they had support from Capello. Emerson for that matter was under constant scrutiny from the Bernabeu fans. Well the term Italianization became so common in the press because of Capello's tactics. Playing two defensive midfielders and playing one lone striker. January-March Robinho never was on the starting line up, he came off the bench to score some crucial goals. Fabio Cannavaro the World player of the year and the European player of the year was starting every game though he was having some mediocre games. Well the question who else does Capello have in defense? Helguera, is he not the one who Madrid put on the transfer list and no one was interested?
"The Transformation"
The transformation happened after January. Madrid got some luck definitely in their favor to win some crucial points. Capello got the injured Roberto Carlos back, Beckham was spectacular and Van Nistelrooy scoring in almost all games. Madrid even came up with a spell of the most away wins in their history. Capello gave charge of the dressing room to the Spaniards and the team had more of Raul, Helguera, Guti and Miguel Torres the find of the season from the B team. Ronaldo who was being more of a burden for Madrid was sold to Milan and in came two youngsters in the form a defensive midfielder Fernando Gago and a striker Gonzalo Higuain both from Argentina. The South Americans did have a decent run in the team and also provided to be excellent signings, but always a possibility of being loaned out as what happened to the two unknown lads from Uruguay.
"What is left behind"
Now the decision is public, what is left behind by Capello. The biggest strength of Capello is the discipline that he brings to the team and also instilling the feeling that no one has a secure position in the team, which naturally raises every one's performance. A team which was having more off field news than on field has been transformed into a team that gels and is believed toward the last 8 games that they could win the League. A new coach that come in will have an easier job than what Capello had summer last year.
"Possible replacements"
Getafe coach Bernd Shuster is definitely number one. He has transformed Getafe and he is in pole running for the Madrid coach role. Getafe president has claimed that if Real approaches Shuster directly they will report Real to UEFA.
Pedro Mijatovic has definitely announced a brave decision-the reason boils down to the fact that though Real won the league they did not play in a way that would thrill anyone. A club like Real with the history cannot play the style of football that Capello was using. The fans that fill the Bernabaeu week in week after do not want to see a defensive style of play, and the outspoken nature of Capello definitely does not go well with the Club. There are numerous clubs across Europe who have been successful in a similar style, such as Liverpool, Milan.
Capello would be a man who will be in Madrid history books. A man who has coached Madrid twice the last time in the 96/97 season and has won the League on both occasions. Now he walks away with a load of money as Madrid will have to honor the remaining two years in his contract.
Capello would be the first to openly learn the hard way that "Winning is not all that matters"
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Sven Goran Eriksson to Man City?
With the speculation and possible confirmed deal of a takeover from Thailand for Man City, Sky Sports news reports that former England boss has signed for Man City as their new boss if the takeover is complete.
The former Lazio boss has been unemployed after England bowed out early from the World Cup, it will be interesting to see what he does with City.
The club refuted this saying that no deal with anyone will be completed till the takeover is confirmed.
The former Lazio boss has been unemployed after England bowed out early from the World Cup, it will be interesting to see what he does with City.
The club refuted this saying that no deal with anyone will be completed till the takeover is confirmed.
Bayern make one more
Bayern Munich agreed a deal with Werder Bremen for German International striker Miroslav Klose. The highly rated striker had intented to stay with Werder till 2008 and then sign for Bayern.
The agreement is expected to make Werder richer by 10M and Klose has signed a 4 year deal.
He will link up with another new signing Luca Toni as striking partners.
The agreement is expected to make Werder richer by 10M and Klose has signed a 4 year deal.
He will link up with another new signing Luca Toni as striking partners.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Who does Man U buy???
Well i personally have focused a lot on the Spanish La liga. Now my cousin who is a big Man U fan had "who do we buy" as his messenger status and as much as a Man U fan he is i think he has a point.
As usual Man U have not been linked with any big names this season. But one thing i have seen with Sir Alex and Man U is that they do not go too public with their wish list.
With Arsenal losing players and by players i mean Henry and Chelsea already signing Steve Sidwell, Ben Haim and Claudio Pizzaro, the only club left in the big 4 who is not active is Liverpool. Well they are it seems planning to raid Athletico Madrid for their star Fernando Torres.
Man U had a dream season last year with excellent attacking options and a good midfield combined with a decent defense. Man U have never been playing in the style that suits a central striker and one successful exception to that probably is Van Nistelrooy. But if you look at the striking options they have maybe they need to add and remove a few. Solksjaer is over his prime though he came back from years of injury to have a decent season. Saha is always injured and is hardly seen on the ground and we are left with Rooney. If Christiano Ronaldo had to chip in with more than 20 goals good as it looks, they definitely need a genuine striker.
They were stories of Heinze claiming that he has 2-3 offers including one from the Spanish Champions. With Roberto Carlos leaving Heinze who can play bothe LB and CB might be a good option for Madrid. With Patrice Evra and Silvestre i don't think Man U will have a problem for cover.
Ryan Giggs one of the majors on the Man U army definitely needs an understudy. The season he leaves or get injured Man U and left with no attacking left sided midfielder. The new bunch of mid field players including Fletchor and Carrick more central in style and Richardson and park Ji Sung more right sided it may be a possible target for Sir Alex.
Alan Smith needs to get out of United and find a place where he can play in his natural position. Its got to a point where United tried playing him in a Central midfield role and when he was brought back into play along with Rooney in a striking option, he struggled.
Man U have been silent in big money signings especially since a take over happened, but this might be their season......
As usual Man U have not been linked with any big names this season. But one thing i have seen with Sir Alex and Man U is that they do not go too public with their wish list.
With Arsenal losing players and by players i mean Henry and Chelsea already signing Steve Sidwell, Ben Haim and Claudio Pizzaro, the only club left in the big 4 who is not active is Liverpool. Well they are it seems planning to raid Athletico Madrid for their star Fernando Torres.
Man U had a dream season last year with excellent attacking options and a good midfield combined with a decent defense. Man U have never been playing in the style that suits a central striker and one successful exception to that probably is Van Nistelrooy. But if you look at the striking options they have maybe they need to add and remove a few. Solksjaer is over his prime though he came back from years of injury to have a decent season. Saha is always injured and is hardly seen on the ground and we are left with Rooney. If Christiano Ronaldo had to chip in with more than 20 goals good as it looks, they definitely need a genuine striker.
They were stories of Heinze claiming that he has 2-3 offers including one from the Spanish Champions. With Roberto Carlos leaving Heinze who can play bothe LB and CB might be a good option for Madrid. With Patrice Evra and Silvestre i don't think Man U will have a problem for cover.
Ryan Giggs one of the majors on the Man U army definitely needs an understudy. The season he leaves or get injured Man U and left with no attacking left sided midfielder. The new bunch of mid field players including Fletchor and Carrick more central in style and Richardson and park Ji Sung more right sided it may be a possible target for Sir Alex.
Alan Smith needs to get out of United and find a place where he can play in his natural position. Its got to a point where United tried playing him in a Central midfield role and when he was brought back into play along with Rooney in a striking option, he struggled.
Man U have been silent in big money signings especially since a take over happened, but this might be their season......
6M deal for Real Madrid second keeper
Villareal have agreed a 6M deal with Real Madrid for their second keeper Diego Lopez. Real were hesitant to sell the 25 year old under study to Cassilas who came up the Real youth ranks.
But who can resist 6M and that too for your second keeper!!!!
But who can resist 6M and that too for your second keeper!!!!
The 16.1M deal is finally done
It is indeed the first major transfer news of the season and finally we have a decision from Henry. Barca have begun their team re building efforts with a really good acquisition, that of Arsenal skipper Thierry Henry for 16.1M. Henry was presented after he cleared a medical and signed a 4 year deal with the Spanish powerhouses.
With Saviola already shown the door, Eidur Gudjhonson might also be the next out as Barca might like to reduce the fight for the starting spot for the striker between Henry and Eto.
Arsenal is definitely looking down the drain, losing their Charismatic Chairman David Dein and now their prized asset Henry, it seems to be seen if Wenger will have any fight left for any competition with a team of youngsters.
Or will Wenger jump the boat and take up the Real Madrid coaching spot that is almost sure to be open in 2 weeks time.
Though the news of Henry signing may not be new as it has been around for a couple of years but the after effects are going to be really interesting to monitor.
With Saviola already shown the door, Eidur Gudjhonson might also be the next out as Barca might like to reduce the fight for the starting spot for the striker between Henry and Eto.
Arsenal is definitely looking down the drain, losing their Charismatic Chairman David Dein and now their prized asset Henry, it seems to be seen if Wenger will have any fight left for any competition with a team of youngsters.
Or will Wenger jump the boat and take up the Real Madrid coaching spot that is almost sure to be open in 2 weeks time.
Though the news of Henry signing may not be new as it has been around for a couple of years but the after effects are going to be really interesting to monitor.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Inter Milan Join the chase for Carlos Tevez
Inter Milan have joined the race for signing Carlos Tevez. Man U, Chelsea, and Real Madrid have already expressed interest in the Argentine sriker.
Tevez might be tilted towards Inter with the big Argentine contingent already at Inter, the likes of Crespo, Julio Cruz, Solari, Walter Samuel to name a few...
Tevez might be tilted towards Inter with the big Argentine contingent already at Inter, the likes of Crespo, Julio Cruz, Solari, Walter Samuel to name a few...
Christoph Metzelder to Real Madrid and who is out....
German International defender Christoph Metzelder is the first signing of the newly crowned Spanish Champions. He is a free signing after he is slated to join Real Madrid from Borussia Dortmund.
Real had not made any official statement about the imminent signing till yesterday. Real President has claimed 3 more signings to add to the existing team.
With Beckham and Roberto Carlos leaving Real would definitely be looking for a right sided midfielder and a left back though they already have signed Marcelo in January. Names such as Gabriel Heinze from Man U and Kaka from Milan have already popped.
One player definitely out of the door is Antonio Cassano, one of the numerous wrong signings Madrid has made in the last few years.
World player of the year Fabio Cannavaro has signalled his intention to stay with the Spanish giants even if Capello the manager is shown the door even after winning the title.
Real had not made any official statement about the imminent signing till yesterday. Real President has claimed 3 more signings to add to the existing team.
With Beckham and Roberto Carlos leaving Real would definitely be looking for a right sided midfielder and a left back though they already have signed Marcelo in January. Names such as Gabriel Heinze from Man U and Kaka from Milan have already popped.
One player definitely out of the door is Antonio Cassano, one of the numerous wrong signings Madrid has made in the last few years.
World player of the year Fabio Cannavaro has signalled his intention to stay with the Spanish giants even if Capello the manager is shown the door even after winning the title.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Dudek gets a big offer
Liverpool keeper Dudek has been in the news claiming that he has recieved an offer from none other than Real Madrid. He has been sidelined as No.2 at Liverpool failing to win his place over Reina.
Iker Casillas is defenitely going to be the No.1 keeper at Madrid, but Real have a reason, their second keeper Diego Lopez is supposedly being loaned out to Villareal next season.
Problem solved and Dudek must be thinking if i am to sit on the bench, then it is better at the Spanish capital club bench. He could make some extra bucks....
Iker Casillas is defenitely going to be the No.1 keeper at Madrid, but Real have a reason, their second keeper Diego Lopez is supposedly being loaned out to Villareal next season.
Problem solved and Dudek must be thinking if i am to sit on the bench, then it is better at the Spanish capital club bench. He could make some extra bucks....
Henry- will you please decide?
Barcelona has interest in signing Thierry Henry, this is no secret. By the looks of things Henry is interested to go. By not winning any trophy this year Barca are looking to revamp their squad and look for more big names.
Last year the same thing happened. Now its not a question its almost a hope for people to not to hear this story again. Henry please go join Barca.....
Last year the same thing happened. Now its not a question its almost a hope for people to not to hear this story again. Henry please go join Barca.....
Real Madrid approach Tevez
With the Spanish season getting over in dramatic style, we are bound to hear more big names in the transfer saga. One of the most prominent as expected is Carlos Tevez. The Argentine striker who saved West Ham from relegation and the fan favorite is supposedly approached by Real Madrid. It is heard that Real are ready to talk business starting at 30M.
Tevez's agent mentioned that if Madrid does not table an offer soon, he will be looking elsewhere as Tevez has clearly mentioned that "it is time to play for a European Giant"
You do the math....
Tevez's agent mentioned that if Madrid does not table an offer soon, he will be looking elsewhere as Tevez has clearly mentioned that "it is time to play for a European Giant"
You do the math....
30 campeones de las épocas
Yes, Championship # 30 is what Madrid played for on Sunday. Three games kicked off at the same time, at least the three that were important. Real Madrid hosting Real Mallorca at home, Barca at Gimnastic and Sevilla playing Villareal.
Well till half time all the three scores were relevant. All eyes were on Real Madrid's match as irrespective of Sevilla and Barca winning if Madrid won their game that would have been irrelevant and at half time Madrid trailing 1-0 at home to Real Mallorca who looked pretty comfortable. The big blow came when Ruud Van Nistelrooy was seen hobbling off the ground with an injury and the top scorer with 25 in the league and 33 in total forced off the game with Madrid needing goals to win is not a good sign.
Barca was making mince meat of Gimnastic with the score 3-0 at half time thanks to a goal from their skipper Puyol, Messi (this time with the leg) and a trade mark free kick from Ronaldinho. Sevilla was traling 1-0 to Villareal and eventually lost the match, and seeing how the first have played out at the Bernabaeu in weeks even i started doubting a better show in the second half. Capello was forced to replace the injured Van Nistelrooy with Higuain. At half time he took out Emerson and replaced him with the more attacking Guti.
Beckham for once was having a poor game, maybe the pressure of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes amongst the crowd and his third son wearing "Daddy 23" jersey would have got to him.
Also with Ruud out of the game there was not target man up front for Beckham to provide those crosses. Higuain and Raul are floating strikers and definitely struggle as target men. I have to commend Capello for one thing, he was aggressive in replacing Beckham with Reyes in the 66th minute. He responded with a goal with his first significant touch of the ball. Robinho after initially doing the thing on the left passed it to higuain who from the left corner inside the box passed it to Reyes who tapped it in a packed Mallorca box.
The goal was more of a relief than a shot in the arm. Madrid really started playing well, though they had over 68% possession almost all through the match they never utilized that well in the Mallorca quarter of the ground. Madrid finally went ahead when Diarra rose higher in between two Mallorca defenders to win the header from a Higuain cross, and it trickled in with a touch from Basinas. The next goal was the best of the lot, a one-two with Higuain and Robinho presented the ball inviting to be hit outside the box and the on loan star Reyes scored his second goal of the night. How important his loan can considered to be considering some of the important and few goals he scored.
Barca played off the game and finshed at 6-1 with two more goals from Messi and Zambrotta.
All in all it was great scenes in the Bernabeu to the packed 83,000 supporters. The first goal that Madrid scored almost blew off the roof, as it was a pressure cooker till then. It was amazing to see a great Champion himself like Rafael Nadal trying to hide his tears of joy. Tom Cruise jumping up and down kissing Katie in joy (God knows whether he was following what was happening)....
June 17th belonged to Real Madrid with their 30th League title and their first major trophy in 4 years. In a way it was Justice for two great players playing their last season in Madrid, Roberto Carlos and Beckham. How about a first season with 33 goals, 25 in the league-Ruud Van Nistelrooy has made a point to United and Ferguson.
Though Madrid struggled majority of the season, I have always believed that "Champions play till they get it right". Barcelona monopoly is over and happy to see statements from players like Puyol "we were over confident...."
I have spoken to numerous people who hate Madrid and for some reason they wanted Barcelona to win though they never like Barca. I have also had people watch some of the games with me who had no clue of the teams and how any team plays and they were rooting for Real Madrid the way they played their last 12 games, undoubtedly they were the better team. As Capello himself summarized " If winning is the mistake i did, i am ready to take the blame"
Well till half time all the three scores were relevant. All eyes were on Real Madrid's match as irrespective of Sevilla and Barca winning if Madrid won their game that would have been irrelevant and at half time Madrid trailing 1-0 at home to Real Mallorca who looked pretty comfortable. The big blow came when Ruud Van Nistelrooy was seen hobbling off the ground with an injury and the top scorer with 25 in the league and 33 in total forced off the game with Madrid needing goals to win is not a good sign.
Barca was making mince meat of Gimnastic with the score 3-0 at half time thanks to a goal from their skipper Puyol, Messi (this time with the leg) and a trade mark free kick from Ronaldinho. Sevilla was traling 1-0 to Villareal and eventually lost the match, and seeing how the first have played out at the Bernabaeu in weeks even i started doubting a better show in the second half. Capello was forced to replace the injured Van Nistelrooy with Higuain. At half time he took out Emerson and replaced him with the more attacking Guti.
Beckham for once was having a poor game, maybe the pressure of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes amongst the crowd and his third son wearing "Daddy 23" jersey would have got to him.
Also with Ruud out of the game there was not target man up front for Beckham to provide those crosses. Higuain and Raul are floating strikers and definitely struggle as target men. I have to commend Capello for one thing, he was aggressive in replacing Beckham with Reyes in the 66th minute. He responded with a goal with his first significant touch of the ball. Robinho after initially doing the thing on the left passed it to higuain who from the left corner inside the box passed it to Reyes who tapped it in a packed Mallorca box.
The goal was more of a relief than a shot in the arm. Madrid really started playing well, though they had over 68% possession almost all through the match they never utilized that well in the Mallorca quarter of the ground. Madrid finally went ahead when Diarra rose higher in between two Mallorca defenders to win the header from a Higuain cross, and it trickled in with a touch from Basinas. The next goal was the best of the lot, a one-two with Higuain and Robinho presented the ball inviting to be hit outside the box and the on loan star Reyes scored his second goal of the night. How important his loan can considered to be considering some of the important and few goals he scored.
Barca played off the game and finshed at 6-1 with two more goals from Messi and Zambrotta.
All in all it was great scenes in the Bernabeu to the packed 83,000 supporters. The first goal that Madrid scored almost blew off the roof, as it was a pressure cooker till then. It was amazing to see a great Champion himself like Rafael Nadal trying to hide his tears of joy. Tom Cruise jumping up and down kissing Katie in joy (God knows whether he was following what was happening)....
June 17th belonged to Real Madrid with their 30th League title and their first major trophy in 4 years. In a way it was Justice for two great players playing their last season in Madrid, Roberto Carlos and Beckham. How about a first season with 33 goals, 25 in the league-Ruud Van Nistelrooy has made a point to United and Ferguson.
Though Madrid struggled majority of the season, I have always believed that "Champions play till they get it right". Barcelona monopoly is over and happy to see statements from players like Puyol "we were over confident...."
I have spoken to numerous people who hate Madrid and for some reason they wanted Barcelona to win though they never like Barca. I have also had people watch some of the games with me who had no clue of the teams and how any team plays and they were rooting for Real Madrid the way they played their last 12 games, undoubtedly they were the better team. As Capello himself summarized " If winning is the mistake i did, i am ready to take the blame"
Monday, June 11, 2007
June 16th will be the decider....
Real Madrid leading the league on virtue of better head-head record than Barcelona played a very tough match against 5th place Real Zaragosa away from home. Barca hosted Espanyol at the Nou Camp and Sevilla travelled to relegation struggling Real Mallorca. To make things really interesting all 3 games had the exact same kick off time.
85 Mins into all three games no one would have imagined that things will turn around so dramatically in favor of Madrid. Sevilla were playing out a draw against Real Mallorca and reduced to 10 men after Dragatunovic was sent off it that would take them to 71 points.
Capello lined up a Madrid line up that clearly showed that he was afraid of conceding goals against a very attacking minded Zaragosa. He moved Sergio Ramos to RB and brought in Helguera to play alongside Cannavaro in the center of defence. He played Emerson and Diarra as well in midfield. The first 15 mins as expected Zaragosa came out like a hurricane and Madrid riding a lot of luck came out of it. After 20 mins or so Zaragosa looked like playing without any purpose and against the run of play a penalty was awarded against Helguera. On first look though the penalty looked harsh in the replays it showed that the ball hit Helguera's hand for sure. Diego Milito scored from the penalty without any trouble. Madrid tried to get some attack going but Van Nistelrooy was hardly getting to see the ball. Right at half time Van Nistelrooy almost headed Madrid back in level terms but it was a fantastic save from the former Real Madrid keeper Cesar that took Zaragosa into half time at 1-0.
Meanwhile at the Nou Camp it was Espanyol scoring first and then the most bizarre goal of the season to equalize the score for Barca. Messi of whom i have got numerous videos and articles comparing him to Maradona was out to prove a point. The "Hand of God" was repeated when Messi jumped to head the ball and clearly the ball went in off his hand and only hit his hand. From the ensuing arguments from the Espanyol team, numerous players got booked. It was 1-1 at half time at the Nou Camp.
Madrid looked to have lost it all after playing well in the last 10 games to get to this spot. Van The Man equalized for Madrid with a headed goal to give some hope but Barca through Messi scored again to make it 2-1 in favor of Barca. Real had still hope as they play at home next weekend and Barca away so a point would also keep them active technically.
Zaragosa had other plans as a maze run from Pablo Aimar resulted in a goal from Milito again to make it 2-1 for Zaragosa.
At half time Capello had made some serious changes. He took out Emerson and brought in Guti. Took out Raul and brought in Higuain and he replaced Robinho with Reyes. There was a period of numerous chances to Higuain but the 20 year old could not finish any of them. Finally in the 88 minute as we have always seen in the past Madrid games Ruud Van Nistelrooy scored goal number 26 in the league to equalize.... But it was only a point, right when news filtered in from Barcelona that Espanyol had equalized through Raul Tamudo and it was Real Madrid's turn to celebrate in Zaragosa. Impatient captain Raul, Robinho and Emerson and everybody on the bench urged their team to defend and avoid any surprises.
It is 73 points for Madrid and Barcelona. 71 for Sevilla.
It all boils down to June 16th when Real Madrid will host Real Mallorca. A victory will guarantee them celebrating the first league title in 4 years. The last time they won in 2003, it was in similar fashion when they had to win the last game to ensure the title. This has been an amazing season for Real, they have been pretty mediocre to begin with but beyond the winter break they have been absolutely amazing. They have broken numerous records. It is the maximum away victories for Real Madrid ever. Their striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy has clocked 33 goals in all competitions and is one goal shy of the Golden boot. This must be the best first season for a new signing at Madrid for atleast the 12 years that i have followed them. David Beckham who is having the best season in Madrid and Roberto Carlos leaving the Capital city club at the end of the season, more reasons for Madrid to win and more reasons that they deserve to win.
85 Mins into all three games no one would have imagined that things will turn around so dramatically in favor of Madrid. Sevilla were playing out a draw against Real Mallorca and reduced to 10 men after Dragatunovic was sent off it that would take them to 71 points.
Capello lined up a Madrid line up that clearly showed that he was afraid of conceding goals against a very attacking minded Zaragosa. He moved Sergio Ramos to RB and brought in Helguera to play alongside Cannavaro in the center of defence. He played Emerson and Diarra as well in midfield. The first 15 mins as expected Zaragosa came out like a hurricane and Madrid riding a lot of luck came out of it. After 20 mins or so Zaragosa looked like playing without any purpose and against the run of play a penalty was awarded against Helguera. On first look though the penalty looked harsh in the replays it showed that the ball hit Helguera's hand for sure. Diego Milito scored from the penalty without any trouble. Madrid tried to get some attack going but Van Nistelrooy was hardly getting to see the ball. Right at half time Van Nistelrooy almost headed Madrid back in level terms but it was a fantastic save from the former Real Madrid keeper Cesar that took Zaragosa into half time at 1-0.
Meanwhile at the Nou Camp it was Espanyol scoring first and then the most bizarre goal of the season to equalize the score for Barca. Messi of whom i have got numerous videos and articles comparing him to Maradona was out to prove a point. The "Hand of God" was repeated when Messi jumped to head the ball and clearly the ball went in off his hand and only hit his hand. From the ensuing arguments from the Espanyol team, numerous players got booked. It was 1-1 at half time at the Nou Camp.
Madrid looked to have lost it all after playing well in the last 10 games to get to this spot. Van The Man equalized for Madrid with a headed goal to give some hope but Barca through Messi scored again to make it 2-1 in favor of Barca. Real had still hope as they play at home next weekend and Barca away so a point would also keep them active technically.
Zaragosa had other plans as a maze run from Pablo Aimar resulted in a goal from Milito again to make it 2-1 for Zaragosa.
At half time Capello had made some serious changes. He took out Emerson and brought in Guti. Took out Raul and brought in Higuain and he replaced Robinho with Reyes. There was a period of numerous chances to Higuain but the 20 year old could not finish any of them. Finally in the 88 minute as we have always seen in the past Madrid games Ruud Van Nistelrooy scored goal number 26 in the league to equalize.... But it was only a point, right when news filtered in from Barcelona that Espanyol had equalized through Raul Tamudo and it was Real Madrid's turn to celebrate in Zaragosa. Impatient captain Raul, Robinho and Emerson and everybody on the bench urged their team to defend and avoid any surprises.
It is 73 points for Madrid and Barcelona. 71 for Sevilla.
It all boils down to June 16th when Real Madrid will host Real Mallorca. A victory will guarantee them celebrating the first league title in 4 years. The last time they won in 2003, it was in similar fashion when they had to win the last game to ensure the title. This has been an amazing season for Real, they have been pretty mediocre to begin with but beyond the winter break they have been absolutely amazing. They have broken numerous records. It is the maximum away victories for Real Madrid ever. Their striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy has clocked 33 goals in all competitions and is one goal shy of the Golden boot. This must be the best first season for a new signing at Madrid for atleast the 12 years that i have followed them. David Beckham who is having the best season in Madrid and Roberto Carlos leaving the Capital city club at the end of the season, more reasons for Madrid to win and more reasons that they deserve to win.
Friday, June 8, 2007
Roberto Carlos off to Turkey
The Real Madrid Full back has formally signed a contract with Fenerbahce the Turkish champions for an undisclosed duration.
Amongst claims last year of leaving Madrid after a disappointing World Cup, to Chelsea or Fenerbahce, the longest serving foreign player at Real decided to extend for one more year and has an injury hit but good season.
Roberto Carlos heads the list in the number of games played at Real Madrid for a foreign player, having played with the Spanish giants for over 11 years.
The 34 year old said that the presence of 4 Brazilians at Fenerbahce and the fact that the Turkish Champions are coached by Brazilian legend Zico were reasons for the choice.
Definitely one of the best left backs in the world in his prime, he show cased everything about Brazilian football and was a gentleman on the pitch. The main reason why i was hooked on to Madrid was to see my all time favorite and football idol Roberto Carlos.
Amongst claims last year of leaving Madrid after a disappointing World Cup, to Chelsea or Fenerbahce, the longest serving foreign player at Real decided to extend for one more year and has an injury hit but good season.
Roberto Carlos heads the list in the number of games played at Real Madrid for a foreign player, having played with the Spanish giants for over 11 years.
The 34 year old said that the presence of 4 Brazilians at Fenerbahce and the fact that the Turkish Champions are coached by Brazilian legend Zico were reasons for the choice.
Definitely one of the best left backs in the world in his prime, he show cased everything about Brazilian football and was a gentleman on the pitch. The main reason why i was hooked on to Madrid was to see my all time favorite and football idol Roberto Carlos.
Bayern Make massive signings
Bayern Munich have confirmed the signings of Frank Ribery and Luca Toni on Thursday.
The French attacking midfielder after having a spectacular World Cup and a good season with Marseille have been priced away with reportedly over 40M price tag. Bayern reportedly held off possible interests from other European giants like Real Madrid, who Beckenbaur was earlier quoted saying to have snapped up Ribery.
The Italian international striker Toni joins Bayern from Fiorentina. Price tag believed to be somewhere close to 15M.
Bayern after a disappointing season and having lost out on Champions League status are really looking to get back to their European Powerhouse status having already spent 80M in transfers this season.
The French attacking midfielder after having a spectacular World Cup and a good season with Marseille have been priced away with reportedly over 40M price tag. Bayern reportedly held off possible interests from other European giants like Real Madrid, who Beckenbaur was earlier quoted saying to have snapped up Ribery.
The Italian international striker Toni joins Bayern from Fiorentina. Price tag believed to be somewhere close to 15M.
Bayern after a disappointing season and having lost out on Champions League status are really looking to get back to their European Powerhouse status having already spent 80M in transfers this season.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Effect of International Duty
With the Spanish La Liga in such a delicate position and Real Madrid playing Real Zaragosa who is a very strong team, the last thing they want is an injury to one of their starters. David Beckham who has been out of chance with the England team after Steve Mclaren took charge.
It has been good for players in the Italian and the English leagues as their seasons are over. Teams who pay for the huge salaries of players and the huge insurance costs and Players like Sergio Ramos playing 2 games in 4 days, Beckham the same amount and getting injured, Robinho playing 2 friendlies for Brazil one in England and the other in Germany supposedly as a preparation for the upcoming international duty.
Now i understand why Club coaches are unhappy with all these stupid International friendlies.
It has been good for players in the Italian and the English leagues as their seasons are over. Teams who pay for the huge salaries of players and the huge insurance costs and Players like Sergio Ramos playing 2 games in 4 days, Beckham the same amount and getting injured, Robinho playing 2 friendlies for Brazil one in England and the other in Germany supposedly as a preparation for the upcoming international duty.
Now i understand why Club coaches are unhappy with all these stupid International friendlies.
Viduka joins Newcastle
Big Sam's first major signing since taking up the coaching job at Newcastle was completed today when Mark Viduka cleared medical and signed a 2 year deal. Big man Striker with tons of experience playing in the Premiership will help players like Martins and Owen to play better.
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