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Real Madrid's Mourinho revealed as world's highest-paid manager - report
Real Madrid tactician picks up the largest salary of football's bosses while Wenger is the most handsomely paid coach in England as Mancini is paid less than China coach Camacho
Mar 20, 2012 12:16:00 AM
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has been revealed as the highest-paid coach in world football, in a list compiled by France Football.
The former Chelsea boss picks up €14.8 million per year while two of his predecessors at Stamford Bridge are also included in the top ten.
Carlo Ancelotti is the second-best paid coach at Paris Saint-Germain, trousering €13.5m every 12 months while Guus Hiddink is the fifth-highest on the list, paid €8.6m a year to spearhead the Anzhi Makhachkala revolution.
MOURINHO TOPS RICH LIST
Jose Mourinho (Real Madrid)
Carlo Ancelotti (PSG)
Pep Guardiola (Barcelona)
Arsene Wenger (Arsenal)
Guus Hiddink (Anzhi)
Fabio Capello (Ex-England)
Sir Alex Ferguson (Man Utd)
Dick Advocaat (Russia)
Jose Camacho (China)
Roberto Mancini (Man City)
Barcelona's success has far exceeded that at the Bernabeu in recent years but Pep Guardiola is still not as well paid as Mourinho, sitting third on the list with a salary of €9.5m.
Four English based coaches make the list. Arsene Wenger is the richest manager in the Premier League with, paid €9m a year despite Arsenal's seven-year trophy drought.
Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is currently trying to catch neighbouring rivals Manchester United, and is falling behind Sir Alex Ferguson in pay stakes. The Italian pocketing €5.9m each year compared to the 70-year-old's €8m.
Recently departed England boss Fabio Capello was handed €8.5m during his spell in charge of the Three Lions.
Two other international managers make the top ten, Russia boss Dick Advocaat is rewarded with €7m for his efforts while former Real Madrid coach Jose Antonio Camacho receives €6.1m per year as manager of the newly rich Chinese national team.
Kaka: We must be alert until we officially clinch the Liga title
The Brazilian playmaker has urged his side to keep their foot on the pedal and stressed that he wants to win plenty of silverware in the Spanish capital
Pape Diakhate’s season at Granada over after surgery
The Senegal international underwent an ankle operation on Tuesday and will be recovering for the remainder of the season
Argentina's most popular sports paper changes its name for a day in homage to Messi & Barcelona
Ole published Wednesday's issue under the moniker of Cule, to pay its respects to the record goalscorer and the club which has made him a star
Giuseppe Rossi will not necessarily turn down Inter if they don't qualify for Champions League, says agent
The Italy international's representative conceded that his client would be open to a move to the Nerazzurri, but the striker is focusing on his recovery from injury for now
Messi is simply amazing, says Barcelona team-mate Cuenca
The promising youngster has spoken of his admiration for the Argentina international, and was pleased with Barcelona's 5-3 victory over Granada on Tuesday evening
Neymar to spearhead a new brand Barcelona - but it may be without Guardiola
The Brazilian forward has rejected Real Madrid and looks set for a move to Camp Nou in 2013 - but his signing has much to do with a marketing strategy for both Barca and Nike
Barcelona defender Adriano out of action for 10 days due to injury
The Brazilian wing-back will be unavailable for a while after having picked up a muscular problem in the Catalans' victory over the struggling Andalusians
'Van Persie in same class as Messi & Ronaldo' - Arsenal legend Parlour
The Gunners old boy sings the praises of the talismanic striker and believes that persuading him to sign a new deal at end of season would be the biggest coup of the summer
Messi is the best player in the history of the sport, says Pique
The towering defender has taken the time to praise the Argentine sensation after he became Barcelona's all-time top scorer by netting a hat-trick against Granada
Messi rocks the record books to shatter Barcelona scoring mark on a historic night at Camp Nou - and he may never be caught
The Argentine's brilliant hat-trick saw the Catalans claim a hard-fought 5-3 win at home to Granada and propels him to the top of the club's all-time greatest goalscorers list
Messi is football's Michael Jordan, says Guardiola
The Blaugrana boss believes that the diminutive Argentine is dominating the game in the same way that the former Chicago Bulls star reigned supreme in basketball
Lionel Messi breaks Cesar Rodriguez's all-time scoring record for Barcelona after hat-trick versus Granada
The Argentine has created history in the colours of the Catalan giants by netting his 232nd, 233rd and 234th goals for the club in the 5-3 win over Granada - all at the age of 24
Real Madrid to open theme park in UAE
Los Blancos president Florentino Perez will disclose the details of the project at a press conference which will be attended by a number of the club's star players
'I am close to returning', says Atletico Madrid's Diego
The 27-year-old midfielder rued the fact that he missed out on of a number of important matches with injury, but is confident that he will soon be back on the pitch
Senna: It is not normal to change coaches twice in one season
The Brazil-born midfielder was somewhat critical of Villarreal's decision to sack another coach, while saying that his side can post a good result against Real Madrid on Wednesday
Brazil legend Ronaldo: Neymar can be better than Messi
The retired striker has no doubt about his countryman's potential but insisted that he must play in Europe if he hopes to become the best player in the world
Van Nistelrooy admits he could retire this summer
The veteran striker has revealed that he could opt to hang up his boots at Malaga at the end of the season and will make a final decision shortly
Real Madrid sign prolific youngster Franco
The Santiago Bernabeu outfit have secured the services of the young attacker, who had also caught the eye of several Premier League clubs after his fine goalscoring exploits
Miguel Angel Lotina believes he can save Villarreal from relegation
El Submarino Amarillo have appointed their third trainer of the season and the new man declared he has what it takes to steer them away from the Liga drop zone
Lassana Diarra: Real Madrid are not thinking about Barcelona
The holding player has stressed that the Liga leaders are focusing on their own performances rather than how their Catalan rivals are performing this season
Guardiola: I sleep the same at night whether Real Madrid win, lose or draw
The 41-year-old coach is refusing to get carried away by Los Blancos' two consecutive draws and insisted that he did not watch the controversial affair at El Madrigal
Abidal to undergo liver transplant on Monday - report
The Frenchman could have the procedure early next week after it was confirmed that a childhood friend would act as a donor to the defender
Real Madrid maintain media silence ahead of Real Sociedad clash
Los Blancos will not address the press in the build-up to this weekend's match and will train away from the glare of cameras on Friday afternoon
Coentrao: I am an excellent professional
The Portugal international has insisted that the smoking incident was an isolated issue, and added that he has always given his all for any team he has represented
We want the same treatment as other teams, says Real Madrid's Pardeza
The club's sporting director has admitted that the club is concerned by the "unequal treatment" the Blancos have received when it comes to refereeing decisions
Robinho: I was not valued at Real Madrid
The Brazil international has looked back at his time at Los Blancos, and still feels sad when he thinks about how the capital giants treated him at the end of his spell
Montoya to start for Barcelona versus Mallorca - report
The Catalans are being plagued by injury and suspension for Saturday's encounter and will have to rely on the youngster to fill in at right-back
Manchester United, Liverpool & Tottenham alerted as Villarreal put Giuseppe Rossi on sale
The Italy international could be available for around €14.5m in the summer transfer window due to the Spanish club's financial problems, with Premier League clubs sounded out
Trezeguet: Mourinho would have won 10 times more trophies were it not for Messi
The former France international believes that the Portuguese's relative lack of success at Real Madrid is primarily down to the diminutive Argentina international
Villarreal's Rossi worth at least €20 million, warns agent
The Italy international is currently working his way back to full fitness after a serious knee injury but he has been recently linked with a move to Inter at the end of the season
Barcelona confirm Keirrison's return to Coritiba on loan
The 23-year-old has failed to make a single appearance since joining the Blaugrana in 2009 and is now going back to his old club in an attempt to kickstart his career
Messi the most undervalued player in football, claims Moneyball author Billy Beane
The man who discovered 'sabermetrics' believes that it is impossible to overestimate the worth of a talent capable of scoring five goals in a single Champions League match
Real Madrid announce plans to build $1 billion holiday resort in UAE
The Spanish capital club acknowledged the importance of increasing their presence in the Middle East and have initiated plans for the construction of a gigantic resort
Real Madrid can go cry in the park, says Angel Lopez
The Spanish defender was delighted with Wednesday's result and believes that Los Blancos are trying to put pressure on match officials ahead of their upcoming games
Bayern Munich and Juventus tracking Adriano - report
The versatile Brazilian player has not featured much for the Catalan giants this season and a summer switch to Italy or Germany could be on the horizon
Controversy surrounds Real Madrid's 1-1 draw with Villarreal as Marco Ruben escapes sending-off despite seemingly receiving two yellow cards
The Argentine appeared to be booked twice in Wednesday night's 1-1 draw, but escaped a red card because the first was for team-mate Marco Senna. Madrid fans, however, are furious
Michael Jordan, Usain Bolt, Roger Federer & the equivalents of Lionel Messi in other sports
The current era undoubtedly belongs to the diminutive forward, so Goal.com has decided to take a look at other men who dominated their respective disciplines in a similar fashion
Finidi George: I almost joined Real Madrid in 1996
The ex-international attacker has revealed that he was on the verge of signing for Los Blancos, but eventually ended up transferring to Real Betis instead
Maradona was more artistic than Messi, says Valdano
The former Real Madrid director has taken the time to praise the record-breaking Blaugrana attacker, although believes the current Al Wasl coach had a better style of play
Fuchs & Siqueira on Barcelona radar - report
The Catalan giants continue their search for a new left-back as a long-term successor to Eric Abidal and are closely monitoring the Schalke and Granada players
Mancini: Nasri can be like David Silva or Xavi for Manchester City
The Italian manager is hoping to see more consistently influential displays from the former Arsenal midfielder following his winning goal against Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium
Sergio Ramos sets new Real Madrid record with 11th red card in La Liga
The Spain international was dismissed for the 11th time in his Madrid career in Wednesday's league draw against Villarreal
Real Madrid's Pepe accuses referee of 'robbery' after draw with Villarreal
The Portugal international vented his frustration with the standard of refereeing after Wednesday's contest and could serve a lengthy ban as a result
Real Madrid's Marcelo: We're working hard but sometimes referees go against us
Los Blancos dropped another two points at El Madrigal after conceding from a contentious 83rd-minute free-kick struck by Marcos Senna which enraged coach Jose Mourinho
Emery vows to solve Valencia's Mestalla complex after Zaragoza defeat
Los Che have now lost two of their last three games at home in La Liga and, consequently, are in danger of losing their grip on third place in the table
Mourinho refuses to speak to press after dismissal against Villarreal
The Portuguese was sent to the stands for protesting the award of the late free-kick from which the Yellow Submarine snatched a draw at El Madrigal
Malaga express interest in Real Madrid's Sahin - report
The Andalusians are keen to bolster their midfield in the summer and have set their sights on the Turkish midfielder, who has featured infrequently for Los Blancos
Thiago Alcantara: Messi is the best ever
The Spain international was full of praise for his club team-mate and agreed with the notion that he is the greatest player of all time
Cruyff: Messi is a role model for every child in the world
The 64-year-old Dutchman is in awe of the Argentine's qualities after he broke another record and believes that Barca are still in the race for the Primera Division title
Cesar Rodriguez's widow labels Messi a 'phenomenon' after overhauling her late husband's scoring record
The three-time Ballon d'Or winner overtook the former Spain international as the Blaugrana's leading scorer with a hat-trick against Granada on Tuesday night
Mar 21, 2012 11:45:00 AM
By Karthick Arvinth
The widow of Barcelona legend Cesar Rodriguez says that she is "happy" that Lionel Messisurpassed her late husband's scoring record for the Catalan club.
Messi netted a hat-trick in Tuesday's 5-3 Liga victory over Granada, taking his tally to 234 in all competitions for the Blaugrana, overtaking Rodriguez's tally of 232.
Emma Revillo declared that it was "an honour" to see the three-time Ballon d'Or winner beat the record, whom she lauded as a "phenomenon".
"I'm very happy Messi surpassed my husband because Messi is a very good person, just like my husband was," she said in an interview toRAC1.
"It is an honour that Messi overtook Cesar. He's a phenomenon."
Tributes have been pouring in from all over the football world following Messi's latest record-breaking feat, with Barca boss Pep Guardiola hailing the dimunitive forward as football's equivalent of basketball legend Michael Jordan.
In Pictures: Real Madrid announce plans to construct $1 billion island resort
Some of the features that Los Blancos' luxurious project will boast when it opens in 2015
Mar 23, 2012 1:30:00 PM
By Enis Koylu
Real Madrid have announced ambitious plans to construct a spectacular $1 billion island resort in the United Arab Emirates.
Strategically located within four hours of around two billion of the world's population, the resort is an hour's drive away from one of the busiest sections of the planet, with 50 million people travelling through the area each year.
The project, called Real Madrid Resort Island, will boast a host of features, such as 60 luxury bungalows, a 450-room five-star hotel, a marina, complete with a yacht club, and a theme park.
The project will also house groundbreaking technology, including the first-ever stadium with one side open to the sea, and a holographic football show.
With a date of completion set for January 2015, this will strengthen Los Blancos' position in Asia in time for the 2022 Fifa World Cup, which will be held in nearby Qatar.
Bird's eye view | The resort has been designed to incorporate the club's crest
Pride | Madrid's illustrious history will be recorded in a museum within the complex
Splashing out | A number of bungalows offering scenic sea-views will be available
Lap of luxury | A five-star hotel will contain 450 rooms, offering views of the ocean
Real Madrid returned to winning ways with a 5-1 romp over Real Sociedad as Barcelona kept pace with a seventh straight win in La Liga.Cristiano Ronaldo scored a brace at the Santiago Bernabeu, including his 100th La Liga goal for Real Madrid, as the league leaders maintained their six-point buffer over Barcelona, following two draws.
Ronaldo's first goal after half an hour gave him a century of goals after only 92 games, making him the fastest player to reach that landmark in the capital outfit's history.Gonzalo Higuain's early opener and a brace from striker Karim Benzema completed the rout for the home side.Xabi Prieto's strike before half-time for Sociedad proved nothing more than consolation.
Lionel Messi and Gerrard Pique were on target in a 2-0 win over Mallorca as 10-man Barcelona kept up the pressure on Real Madrid.Messi's tempting free kick evaded everyone in the area before going in off the inside of the post to give Barca the lead midway through the first half.
Pep Guardiola's side passed up the opportunity to double their advantage and, following Thiago's sending off on the hour mark, endured a nervy finale as the home side pressed.But Pique settled it when he struck 10 minutes from time to pick up another vital three points in Barca's belated title pursuit of their rivals.
Getafe moved within five points of fourth and a qualifying Champions League spot with a 3-1 win over third-place Valencia.All four goals came in the opening half hour with Bruno putting Getafe 3-1 up with an own goal following strikes from Pedro Rios, Miku, and Roberto Soldado for Valencia.
La Liga wrap: Malaga close in on third-placed Valencia
26 March 2012
Malaga recorded an important come-from-behind 2-1 win over Espanyol in La Liga on Sunday, while Real Zaragoza shocked Atletico Madrid. Manuel Pellegrini's Malaga capitalised on Valencia's loss to Getafe, with their win lifting them level on points with the third-placed side. Goals from Ruud van Nistelrooy and Martin Demichelis helped visitors Malaga rally to bag all three points at Estadi Cornella-El Prat.
Philippe Coutinho had put hosts Espanyol ahead with a clever free-kick on 24 minutes, but they were fortunate to go into the break ahead after both Enzo Maresca and Isco struck the post.Malaga would get their equaliser, however, in the 76th minute, as substitute van Nistelrooy scored with his first touch.And the away team snatched a vital win when Demichelis netted just two minutes later, striking home after Francisco Casilla could only parry Salomon Rondon's header.
Malaga, who extended their unbeaten league run to six matches, are now hot on the heels of Valencia in the chase for the final automatic Champions League place.Meanwhile, Real Zaragoza secured three vital points in their bid to avoid relegation with a 1-0 win against Atletico Madrid. Apono's stoppage-time penalty, awarded after Diego Godin's clumsy challenge on Helder Postiga, was all that separated the two teams at La Romareda.
Elsewhere, Osasuna consolidated sixth spot with a 2-0 win over fifth-placed Levante.Raul Garcia and Nino netted for Jose Luis Mendilibar's men as they extended their unbeaten run to six matches.Athletic Bilbao failed to win for the third consecutive game after being forced to settle for a 1-1 draw at home to lowly Sporting Gijon.
Marcelo Bielsa's side, who knocked Manchester United out of the Europa League earlier this month, saw Iker Muniain miss a penalty but still went ahead through Oscar De Marcos on 77 minutes.Bottom-placed Sporting Gijon took an unlikely point from Estadio San Mames when Alberto Lora Ramos struck a late equaliser.
Later, Villarreal climbed to 16th place courtesy of a 2-0 win at Rayo Vallecano, thanks to goals from Marco Ruben and Angel Lopez.Finally, Christian Stuani's 77th-minute equaliser helped third-bottom Racing Santander draw 1-1 away to Real Betis, who had led through Roque Santa Cruz.
Cristiano Ronaldo on the verge of becoming the first player to score against every Liga opponent in one season The Portuguese attacker has already netted against 17 different opponents in the league, and only needs to score against the Bermellones and Catalans to complete the set
Tostao: Messi better than Maradona, but not Pele The former attacker has voiced his opinion that the Barcelona star has surpassed his countryman, but is not up there with the Brazil legend yet
Ambrosini: Barcelona are the strongest side in the world The 34-year-old midfielder admitted that the Blaugrana will pose his side a great threat and called on the team to put in a strong display on Wednesday
Sevilla set sights on Trabzonspor's Burak Yilmaz - report The Turkey international has netted 32 times in 31 appearances so far this term and is apparently being tracked by a host of top European clubs, including AC Milan
Galatasaray to move for Villarreal's Nilmar - report The 27-year-old striker, a 2009 arrival at El Madrigal from Internacional, saw a proposed transfer to Sao Paulo collapse because of his financial demands
Mascherano enjoying defensive role with Barcelona The Argentina international established a reputation as one of the most combative defensive midfielders in Europe before joining the Blaugrana from Liverpool two years ago
Pique relieved at keeping title hopes alive with win at Mallorca The Blaugrana were in danger of losing the lead given to them by Lionel Messi when they were reduced to 10-men, but the former Manchester United man popped up with a vital second
Butragueno insists Real Madrid have moved on after Villarreal controversy Jose Mourinho, Rui Faria, Sergio Ramos and Mesut Ozil all saw red during Los Blancos' 1-1 draw at El Madrigal and the club responded by imposing a media blackout
Manchester City set to beat United to £25m transfer target Javi Martinez The 23-year-old Athletic Bilbao star has been touted for a move to a host of European clubs this summer, with Roberto Mancini scouting the Spaniard several times of late
Guardiola: Competition Committee and Referee Technical Committee have lost respect Even though Real Madrid's Pepe has been admonished for accusing Jose Luis Paradas Romero of "robbery", the Blaugrana boss believes players have been getting off lightly of late
Emery reiterates plea for unity in wake of Valencia's defeat to Getafe Los Che suffered a second successive Liga defeat on Saturday, but that has not stopped their Basque trainer from repeating his sentiments for the supporters to stay on his side
Messi matches Barcelona record for most appearances by a foreign player in La Liga The No. 10 made yet more history on Saturday as he participated in his 205th league game for the Blaugrana to equal Phillip Cocu's achievement
Zidane spotted on Real Madrid bench against Real Sociedad and admits: I want to be a coach The former France great is currently the Blancos' director of football but has confessed he is looking to make the move into management some time in the future
Karanka follows Mourinho's lead as Real Madrid media blackout continues Players and staff of the Blancos have decided against speaking to the media once more in the wake of their devastating five-star showing against Philippe Montanier's side
Ronaldo scores 100th La Liga goal for Real Madrid against Real Sociedad The Portuguese forward netted his 44th goal of the season against the Basque club on Saturday, meaning he has now reached a century in the Spanish top-flight
Messi breaks Ronaldo's Barcelona record for most Liga goals in a season The Argentine continues to rewrite the club's history books as his strike on Saturday means he has now beaten the Brazil legend's record of 34 goals during the 1996-97 campaign
Toulalan to undergo surgery on Tuesday - report The 28-year-old France international will go under the knife next week for the foot injury he picked up a fortnight ago and could miss this summer's European Championship
Barcelona legend Stoichkov denies insulting referee by telephone The former attacker, now trainer in his native country Bulgaria, has denied accusations of verbal abuse towards an official, and stated that he has a tolerant attitude
Messi's father: I never dreamed my son would break Barcelona's goalscoring record so young The Argentina international surpassed Cesar Rodriguez as the Catalan giants' most prolific marksman ever, and this achievement left his family delighted and surprised
Raul's 71 Champions League strikes, Cristiano Ronaldo's six La Liga hat-tricks, Pele's 1281 goals - the records Messi has yet to break Another record was obliterated by the Barcelona wizard earlier in the week, but there are still some benchmarks that he has yet to smash
Jose Mourinho's red mist at Real Madrid - 22 players sent off in 103 games, including seven against Barcelona Mesut Ozil and Sergio Ramos were dismissed in Los Blancos' 1-1 draw at Villarreal on Wednesday night - but that's nothing new since the Portuguese arrived as coach in 2010
Maradona: Talk about Messi being the best footballer ever will be making Pele nervous The legendary No. 10 is of the opinion that the recent debate on whether the 24-year-old is the greatest footballer of all time is going to trouble his long-time rival
Christian Fuchs' agent plays down rumoured Barcelona interest
The Blaugrana are said to be looking for a replacement for Eric Abidal, who is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines as he is expected to undergo a liver transplant this week
Zubizarreta cools Barcelona treble talk: We are focused on Milan
The club's sporting director hopes Pep Guardiola's men can maintain the intensity shown in previous seasons, but says talk of winning all three titles is premature
AC Milan to make Thiago Silva captain to stave off interest from Barcelona
The Blaugrana allegedly tried to sign the Brazil international last summer and will launch another bid for the 27-year-old centre-half at the end of the current campaign
Cruyff says Real Madrid are 'sore losers looking for excuses'
The 64-year-old Dutch icon believes that Los Blancos are left fuming when they do not win, while claiming that it is impossible for Barca to retain their Liga title
Jorge Valdano: Being at Real Madrid has nothing to do with happiness
The former club director does not rule out a return to the Santiago Bernabeu in the future but insisted that taking some time off the Spanish side is 'healthy' for him
Santillana: A club like Real Madrid should not complain about refereeing decisions
The 59-year-old has called on the club to focus on on-the-field matters, while saying that Los Blancos are heavily favoured for the upcoming Champions League tie
Mourinho reverts back to his old ways as Khedira's comments are lost in translation
The Portuguese served as Bobby Robson's interpreter during the Englishman's time in charge of Sporting Lisbon and Barcelona, before really establishing himself as a coach
Mourinho denies responsibility for media blackout
Los Blancos have become increasingly irritated by their perceived unfair treatment at the hands of referees of late and refused to speak to the press for all of last week
Borghi: Medel is indispensable to Chile
The 24-year-old has become a fixture for both the national team and Sevilla, and his Roja coach believes that a player like him is essential in any side
Mourinho is a great leader, says Butragueno
The former Spain international has voiced his admiration for the Portuguese coach, and has praised the development of players such as Ronaldo, Benzema, Di Maria and Higuain
Edgar Davids: Barcelona are a team full of 'mythological gods'
The former Barca hardman hailed the Catalan giants and has no doubts they will one again become European champions, while also asserting that they are still in the Liga title race
Rio Ferdinand praises Real Madrid's Varane
The seasoned defender has voiced his admiration for the France Under-21 starlet following his strong display against Real Sociedad in Los Blancos' 5-1 win at the weekend
Fenerbahce reportedly interested in Lassana Diarra
The French midfielder has supposedly attracted the interest of the Turkish giants, and could be on the move from the Spanish giants in the summer transfer window
Cruyff says Real Madrid are 'sore losers looking for excuses'
The 64-year-old Dutch icon believes that Los Blancos are left fuming when they do not win, while claiming that it is impossible for Barca to retain their Liga title
Mar 27, 2012 7:28:00 AM
By Luis Mira
Barcelona legend Johan Cruyff has launched a scathing attack on Real Madrid over their criticism of refereeing decisions.
The Spanish capital club enforced a media blackout during the course of last week in protest against the standard of refereeing after the team's 1-1 draw at Villarreal, which allowed Barcelona to close the gap at the top of the Liga table to six points.
"Madrid are sore losers looking for excuses," Cruyff wrote in his column for El Periodico de Catalunya.
"Against Malaga and Villarreal, they did not do any worse than when they played against Betis or Rayo Vallecano.
"They won matches when they did not deserve to and they drew matches when they had everything to win. It is just that simple.
"Nowadays, Madrid either win or they are left angry. There is no middle ground."
The 64-year-old then stressed that this Liga title is Madrid's to lose, while casting doubt over Los Blancos' success in the long run.
"Barca cannot win La Liga," Cruyff added. "They cannot win it no matter how great they are.
"They cannot win it because, when you are 10 points behind Madrid with 12 matches left, you cannot win it not even if you win all those games.
"But football tells me that Barca's growth is proportional to all the doubts that Madrid generate.
"While Pep Guardiola's players have nothing that troubles them, Jose Mourinho's side already see ghosts everywhere."
Barca host Athletic Bilbao in this weekend's Liga fixture, while Madrid visit Osasuna.
CR10! - With 131 goals in 131 games, Cristiano Ronaldo is now up to 10th on the all-time list of Real Madrid goalscorers
The Portuguese struck his 130th and 131st goals for the Spanish side on Saturday in the 5-1 win over Real Sociedad and has moved into the top 10 on their all-time scorers chart
Mar 26, 2012 9:00:00 AM
By Ben Hayward | Spanish Football Editor
First he was CR9; then he was CR7. But much more significantly, Cristiano Ronaldo is now number 10 in the all-time list of the greatest goalscorers in the glorious history of Real Madrid.
Ronaldo's double in the 5-1 win over Real Sociedad on Saturday saw the Portuguese reach 100 Liga strikes in just 92 games, breaking a club record held by the great Ferenc Puskas since the 1960s and setting a new Primera Division mark in the process.
The former Manchester United forward's first strike against the Basque outfit saw him reach that century, while his second took him to 101 league goals and moved the 27-year-old above former Spain star Michel and into 10th place in the list of Madrid's top goalscorers in all competitions.
Ronaldo now has 131 goals in 131 official games for the Spanish side, having netted 33 in 35 in his first season, 53 in 54 last term and 45 in 42 so far in 2011-12. And he's not finished yet as there are up to 14 more games still to play for the Portuguese in the current campaign.
THE TOP 10 GOALSCORERS FOR REAL MADRID
<tbody>
</tbody>
PLAYER
PERIOD
GOALS
Raul Gonzalez
1994-2010
323
Alfredo Di Stefano
1953-1964
308
Santillana
1971-1988
290
Ferenc Puskas
1958-1966
238
Hugo Sanchez
1985-1992
208
Francisco Gento
1953-1971
179
Pirri
1964-1980
171
Emilio Butragueno
1984-1995
171
Amancio
1962-1976
155
Cristiano Ronaldo
2009-
131
<tbody>
</tbody>
<tbody>
</tbody>
Should, as seems certain, Ronaldo remain at the Bernabeu next season, a similar goals return would see him move up to sixth in the club's all-time list, surpassing such superstars as Emilio Butragueno, Paco Gento, Pirri and Amancio.
After that, the next target will be the 200-goal mark, which looks just out of reach for next term unless he can improve his phenomenal strike rate even further in 2012-13, and in the remainder of the current campaign.
In the top five, some of the real Real Madrid greats await, with Hugo Sanchez (208), Ferenc Puskas (238), Santillana (290), Alfredo Di Stefano (308) and Raul (323) making up a star-studded list of legendary marksmen. But Cristiano is catching up to them fast and at his current goal-per-game rate, he may just eclipse them all.
Ibrahimovic presents Keita with signed shirt for Abidal - report
The Swede spent a season at Camp Nou between 2009 and 2010 and is said to have been good friends with the Frenchman, who is set to undergo a liver transplant
Neymar: I want to learn from Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo
The Peixe wonderkid would love to play like either of the two Spain-based stars, but insisted that his free-kick style has nothing to do with the Portugal international
Di Maria to return from injury against Osasuna - report
The Argentine has been struggling with fitness problems in 2012, but could make his comeback in this weekend's Primera Division encounter against the Pamplona outfit
Arbeloa: Real Madrid would have settled for a six-point lead in La Liga at the start of the season
The Blaugrana have closed the gap on Los Blancos but the Spain international is quick to point out that the title remains in the hands of Jose Mourinho's men
Ozil: I turned down an offer from Inter in favour of Madrid
The Germany international has disclosed that he had the chance to move to the Serie A outfit, but is pleased to have joined los Blancos and hopes to retire at the Santiago Bernabeu
Villarreal's De Guzman ponders Eredivisie return
The Dutchman admits that he is considering a return to Netherlands in search of regular first-team football after failing to make an impact with the Yellow Submarine
Wales manager Coleman: Bale good enough to be Real Madrid's next Galactico
The former Fulham boss believes that the Welsh winger would be a big hit in Spain and admits that his country is still coming to terms with the death of Gary Speed
Mourinho: Inter is my home and a return is always possible
The Portuguese guided the Nerazzurri to the treble two years ago before departing for the Spanish capital, but he has repeatedly spoken of his enduring affection for the club
Diego happy at Atletico but open to Wolfsburg return
The Brazilian has admitted that he made many mistakes during his debut season at the Wolfswagen Arena and insists that his relationship with current coach Felix Magath is 'fine'
Signing Ibrahimovic was a mistake, says former Barcelona president Joan Laporta
The former Blaugrana supremo has admitted that the acquisition of the Sweden international was an error on his part as the forward never really settled in at Camp Nou
Jordi Alba's agent confirms contact with AC Milan
The Spain international has previously been linked with Barcelona, and has now also attracted the interest of the Serie A champions
Inter show support for stranded Barcelona by offering up training facilities
Over 1,000 fans turned out to watch the Blaugrana being put through their paces by coach Pep Guardiola at the Nerazzurri's Centro Sportivo Giacinto Facchetti
Mar 29, 2012 5:00:00 PM
By Mark Doyle
Barcelona trained at the facilities of Inter's youth team academy on Thursday after being unable to return home because of a general strike in Spain.
The Catalans, who drew 0-0 with AC Milan in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie at San Siro on Wednesday, staged a 90-minute session at the Centro Sportivo Giacinto Facchetti which, according to Inter's official website, drew a crowd of over 1,000 fans.
However, star attraction Lionel Messi and the rest of those involved in the game at the Giuseppe Meazza only played a minor role in the workout.
Inter technical director Marco Branca, sporting director Piero Ausilio and youth academy director Roberto Samaden were all in attendance and spoke afterwards with Barca coach Pep Guardiola.
Barcelona, who have complained to Uefa about the state of the pitch at the Giuseppe Meazza on Wednesday, welcome the Italian champions to Camp Nou for the return leg next Tuesday
Luis Enrique: It is impossible is to make Roma play like Barcelona
The trainer admitted that the Catalan model is unlikely to be replicated in the Italian capital, and insisted that his side employ their own brand of football
Juventus scouted Llorente and Farfan at Veltins Arena - report
It is believed that the Turin giants had representatives present for the Europa League quarter-finals clash between the players' club sides in Germany earlier this week
Bielsa on Guardiola: He is the teacher and I am the pupil
The Catalan coach stated in the past that he wants to learn from the 56-year-old, but ahead of the sides' meeting at the weekend the Argentine thinks a role reversal is in order
Ten days that will decide La Liga - build-up to the Clasico crucial for both Real Madrid & Barcelona's title aspirations
As the race in Spain heats up, Goal.com casts a studious eye over the three key fixtures in the upcoming days that will shape the destiny of the league title
Cristiano Ronaldo: I have yet to reach my peak
The Portuguese star insists he is still evolving as a player, and added that everything he has has been achieved through hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck
Di Maria included in Real Madrid's squad for Osasuna clash as Khedira misses out
The creative Argentine appears to be in line for a return to the team after one month on the sidelines, but he may only come on as a substitute
Adriano resumes full training with Barcelona ahead of Athletic Bilbao clash
The 27-year-old is in line to make a return to the team after being given the all-clear to resume training with the Catalan giants following a muscular problem
David Villa reveals he is closing in on return to action with Barcelona
The Spain international has made a rapid recovery from the broken leg he sustained in Japan last December and is optimistic of soon returning to first-team action
Neymar: Brasileirao is one of the toughest leagues in the world
The Brazil international is expected to join Barcelona after the 2014 World Cup but he does not buy into the idea that he needs to move to Europe in order to improve
Atletico Madrid an option for Emre, claims agent
The Turkey international will be a free agent in the summer and his representative has admitted that the Vicente Calderon is a possible destination for his client
Ibrahimovic sends Abidal message of support
The pair were apparently close during the Sweden international's season-long stay in Catalunya and the forward is praying that the Frenchman's liver transplant is a success
Mourinho insists he has no problem with Casillas and denies speaking with Manchester City
There have been rumours that the Portuguese's relationship with the Spain international has completely collapsed and that the former Inter boss is considering a return to England
Guardiola: I try to learn from Bielsa
The 41-year-old was full of compliments for the former Chile coach and played down the fact that the Basques will have just one full day's rest for the encounter at Camp Nou
Dani Alves: Barcelona are benefiting from my off-field friendship with Messi
The Brazilian and the Argentine are friends and the full-back believes that has led to an almost telepathic understanding between the pair on the field of play
Marcelo: It is always complicated to play in Pamplona
The Brazil international is expecting a tough test when Los Blancos lock horns with Jose Luis Mendilibar's men at the weekend, but believes his side have what it takes to win
Jose Mourinho decides against selling Iker Casillas despite strained relationship between the duo
The situation between the Portuguese coach and the Spain captain is at an all time low but the Blancos coach has decided that selling the club icon is not an option
Mathieu: Valencia want to win Europa League
The Frenchman conceded it won't be easy to reach the semi-finals of the competition, but stressed that winning the tournament is as important as finishing third in La Liga
Barcelona to face Athletic Bilbao without Adriano - report
The Brazilian full-back will not be match fit in time for this weekend's Primera Division clash, but could make his comeback in the Champions League match versus AC Milan
Bielsa quashes Inter rumours
The Argentine trainer insisted there is no truth to speculation linking him with the Nerazzurri, who are understood to be looking for alternatives to Villas-Boas
Manchester City ready to launch sensational bid to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid this summer
Abu Dhabi powerbrokers willing to match £80 million world-record transfer fee and sanction salary of between £400,000-a-week and £500,000-a-week to land Portuguese icon
Real Madrid's Callejon resumes training
The versatile attacker is on his way back after a brief spell on the sidelines due to an ankle injury, but is unlikely to feature at the weekend against Osasuna
Ras al-Khaimah celebrates Real Madrid's holiday resort project
The UAE football authorities are delighted with the Spanish capital club's proposal and believe it will be a major boost for the game in the region
Diego Simeone: Atletico Madrid won deservedly against Hannover
The Argentine coach is wary that the result leaves everything open for the second leg and praised his side for recovering from their weekend setback
Valencia's Emery: This is a bad result, but it gives us hope
The 40-year-old coach said his side did not deserve to concede twice as he was satisfied with his men's display against the Eredivisie club
Brazil boss Mano Menezes explains Kaka omission: I want him to go through pre-season with Real Madrid
The 49-year-old coach says that the Madrid playmaker must train with his club team-mates next summer in order to prove during 2012-13 that he can play at the World Cup
Edmilson claims 80% of Barcelona's success is because of Ronaldinho
The 35-year-old says that the Flamengo ace played a leading role in the Blaugrana's recovery, while suggesting that he expected Messi to become a big hit at the club
Barcelona's Alexis Sanchez wants to be remembered as one of the world's best
The Chile international, who has netted eight times in 19 La Liga appearances since joining from Udinese last summer, feels he must remain humble if he is to realise his dream
La Liga preview: Fixture pile-up for Bilbao, Barca
30 March 2012
Athletic Bilbao face a two day turnaround to prepare themselves for a visit from Barcelona in La Liga on Saturday.Bilbao travelled to Germany on Thursday to face Schalke in the first-leg of their Europa League quarter-final, and must back up just 48 hours later against reigning champions Barcelona at the Nou Camp. Coach Marcelo Bielsa will face a dilemma as to how strong a team he puts out against Barca, knowing his side are still a chance to qualify for next season's Europa League despite sitting 11th on the table.
However, he will also be mindful of the return leg against Schalke next Thursday. Barcelona face a similar problem, with Pep Guardiola's men held to a 0-0 draw against AC Milan in Italy in the Champions League on Tuesday.They also face a return leg just three days after the home match against Bilbao, but with a deeper squad, the European champions are likely to be able to handle it better.It is a must-win game for Barcelona, who have cut the gap to league leaders Real Madrid to just six points on the back of seven straight wins.
Jose Mourinho's Madrid are also in action on Saturday, but after a comfortable 3-0 win away at APOEL in the Champions League quarters, the Portuguese has a bit more leeway in his selection against Osasuna. Elsewhere on Saturday, Malaga continue their charge for third when they host Real Betis. Manuel Pellegrini's side have risen to fourth on the back of a seven match unbeaten run, and now trail third-placed Valencia on goal difference alone.
Betis on the other hand have taken just three points from their last six matches, and will be desperate to widen the gap between them and the relegation zone.Racing Santander can close the gap to safety to just three points when they host Granada, who sit narrowly outside the relegation zone in 17th.Bottom side Real Zaragoza have taken seven points from their last three matches, and need to continue that streak against Sporting Gijon if they are to avoid the drop.
On Sunday, Levante can close in on a Champions League berth when they travel to Valencia, while Atletico Madrid host Getafe.Real Sociedad will be hoping to snap a three game losing streak when they host Rayo Vallecano and Espanyol are away at Villarreal, before Mallorca make the trip to Sevilla on Monday.
Ras al-Khaimah celebrates Real Madrid's holiday resort project
The UAE football authorities are delighted with the Spanish capital club's proposal and believe it will be a major boost for the game in the region
Mar 30, 2012 12:20:00 AM
By Luis Mira
The governors of the emirate of Ras al-Khaimah have put together a party to celebrate Real Madrid's holiday resort in the United Arab Emirates.
'Real Madrid Resort Island', which has a cost of $1 billion, is due to open in January 2015, with over one million visitors expected per year.
At the event, in which Madrid were represented by president Florentino Perez and directors Emilio Buntragueno and Zinedine Zidane, UAE football authorities spoke of the importance of the resort to develop football in the Persian Gulf region.
"We are proud of this project, we have done everything to make it easier and we hope that everyone will be satisfied with it," UAE FA interim president Youssef Alserkal told reporters.
"The government of Ras al-Khaimah will do everything to make this a success.
"This project will definitely improve the sport in our Arabic country."
Mourinho: Benzema's goal was out of this world
The Real Madrid coach was impressed with the Frenchman's strike against Osasuna on Saturday and had nothing but praise for his side's attacking performance
Fabregas fit to face AC Milan
The Spain international has missed the Catalan outfit's last two games with a lower back problem but he is now set to make his return to action against the Rossoneri
Tottenham winger Bale admits Real Madrid or Barcelona move may be too tempting to turn down
The Welsh wizard has revealed a potential move to the Nou Camp or Santiago Bernebau could prove hard to resist, and also stated he would not blame Harry Redknapp if he left
Albiol: Ronaldo, Benzema and Higuain score with every shot
The defender has expressed his incredulity at just how clinical his Los Blancos team-mates are in front of goal, while at the same time thanking coach Jose Mourinho for his recall
Higuain overjoyed after breaking 100-goal barrier for Real Madrid
The Argentina international netted twice in Pamplona to take his tally for Los Blancos to 101 and was quick to thank Jose Mourinho for his continued faith in him
Real Madrid centurions conquer Pamplona to keep Barcelona at bay in La Liga
Jose Mourinho's men stormed to an impressive victory at Osasuna, before Pep Guardiola's side beat Athletic Bilbao at Camp Nou to ensure no change at the top in the title race
Iniesta: No excuses if Barcelona fail to beat AC Milan
The Catalans struggled to break the Rossoneri down during their first-leg clash at San Siro but the midfielder is confident the Blaugrana will make the breakthrough at Camp Nou
Guardiola: Mascherano has been an unimaginably good signing
The 27-year-old former Liverpool man is a defensive midfielder by trade, but he is now regularly being deployed as a centre-half by the Blaugrana - and to great effect
Thiago satisfied with Barcelona's victory over Athletic Bilbao: 'It was important we imposed ourselves'
The Italy-born midfielder feels it was crucial the Blaugrana eventually stepped their game up, as the high-pressing style of Bielsa's side meant they were left with little choice
I play under the illusion that Real Madrid will win La Liga, reveals Cristiano Ronaldo after defeating Osasuna
The Blancos' top scorer says he approaches each game with the mindset that it is only a matter of time before his team are crowned as domestic champions ahead of Barcelona
Mourinho delighted by performance of Real Madrid fringe players during victory over Osasuna
Esteban Granero and Raul Albiol were surprise starters against the Basques on Saturday, but the duo's Portuguese coach was encouraged by their contribution on the night
Real Madrid reach 100 Liga goals this season
The Blancos continue to break records at will, having net three digits' worth of strikes in the Spanish top-flight, and look likely to beat their own high of 107 during 1989-90
Higuain scores 100th Real Madrid goal against Osasuna
The Argentine's first goal in the 5-1 win at the Reyno de Navarra saw him become the club's latest centurion, after Cristiano Ronaldo surpassed the mark earlier this season
Jose Luis Chilavert: Bielsa is one of the best coaches in the world
The Paraguayan legend says that his former boss gets the most out of all of his players, and lauds Lionel Messi as the greatest player in history
Lionel Messi is under too much pressure in Argentina, says Bielsa
The 56-year-old thinks that his compatriots are asking too much of the Barcelona superstar whenever he takes the field for Argentina
Malaga reportedly eyeing Forlan as Van Nistelrooy replacement
The Andalusian outfit will turn their attention to the Uruguayan, who has struggled mightily at San Siro since his move to Serie A last summer, should the Dutchman retire
Coutinho admits desire for Espanyol stay
The Brazilian has made an major impact in Catalunya, and stated that he has been very happy since his January loan move from the Nerazzurri
Kaka and Xabi Alonso would like to have played with Pele and Zidane
The Blancos duo were asked which footballers they would love to have shared the pitch with and the Brazilian opted for 'O Rei' while the Spaniard chose 'Zizou'
Cristiano Ronaldo: We're on track to win La Liga & Champions League
The Portugal star feels that Los Blancos have practically secured qualification for the semi-finals following their away win over APOEL, and believes they could achieve the double
Tottenham frighten off Barcelona with Bale price tag as Real Madrid move into driving seat to sign Welshman
Bernabeu side have leapfrogged bitter rivals in race to land the 22-year-old, who is rated in the £40m-plus bracket by Spurs, even though he is said to prefer a move to Camp Nou
Benitez in no hurry to return to football management & waiting for the right club
The Spanish coach has been out of the game since being sacked by Inter after enduring a fractious relationship with Nerazzurri president Massimo Moratti
Falcao: It is impossible to compete against Barcelona and Real Madrid
The Colombian striker believes that it is impossible for other clubs to win the Primera Division title and revealed that he is not paying attention to reports about his future
Cristiano Ronaldo pulls clear of Lionel Messi in the race for the European Golden Shoe
The Portuguese superstar scored two to take himself one goal clear of his Argentine rival in the race to become Europe's top goalscorer
Competing directly against Real Madrid & Barcelona is practically impossible, says Cazorla
The Malaga star believes that the two Champions League hopefuls are on another level, and spoke of his hopes of making the Spain squad for this summer's European Championships
Not impossible to overcome Real Madrid in La Liga, says Pedro
The versatile attacker has admitted that it will not be easy for the Catalans to retain their league title, but stressed that they will not give up just yet
Unai Emery: Valencia were better than Levante
The 40-year-old coach was unhappy with the draw against their cross-town rivals and noted that the latest results do not reflect what the team did on the pitch
