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Cristiano Ronaldo buys himself a Lamborghini for his birthday - report The Portugal international turned 27 over the weekend and treated himself to a special edition Aventador LP700-4 worth €340,000 to mark the occasion
Feb 8, 2012 6:10:00 PM
Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly bought himself a Lamborghini to celebrate his birthday.
The Portugal international turned 27 on Sunday and treated himself to a special edition Aventador LP700-4 worth €340,000 to mark the occasion, according to Marca.
The purchase means that Ronaldo now has a fleet of 12 cars: four Audis, two Bentleys, two Mercedes, an Aston Martin, a Maserati and a Porsche.
Ronaldo has scored 24 goals in 21 Primera Division appearances for los Blancos this season and currently leads the race for the Golden Shoe.
Marcelo resumes Real Madrid training The Brazilian defender has been passed fit for this weekend's match after spending the last 10 days on the sidelines due to injury
Valdano: Barcelona need Van Persie more than Real Madrid The Santiago Bernabeu side's former sporting director has voiced his opinion that the Blancos do not require the services of the Dutchman, but the Blaugrana might need him
Atletico Madrid winger Arda Turan urges club to bid for Trabzonspor's Burak Yilmaz The former Galatasaray man feels his current employers would be well-served by the 26-year-old, whom he has likened to Arsenal striker, Thierry Henry
Zubizarreta reveals Marc Muniesa will be promoted to the Barcelona first team The defender is considered to be one of the most promising defenders around at the club, and will be given his chance with the senior side for the 2012-13 campaign
Roberto Carlos: Pepe plays in Real Madrid's style The Portugal defender has copped a lot of flak for his antics in recent clashes with Barcelona but he has received some words of encouragement from a Blancos legend
Barcelona president Sandro Rosell hopeful Pep Guardiola will sign contract extension
The former B team coach has led the Catalans to 13 trophies since taking charge in 2008 and the club are becoming increasingly anxious as his current deal expires in the summer
Athletic Bilbao boss Marcelo Bielsa targets Copa del Rey glory
The Basques booked their place in the showpiece event by cruising to an 8-3 aggregate win over Mirandes on Tuesday evening and will now face Barcelona in the tournament decider
Barcelona defender Gerard Pique: Guardiola is more motivated now than he was four years ago
The Spanish defender revealed that Pep remains more motivated than ever at Camp Nou and stressed that the Catalan club are still in contention for the Liga title
La Liga preview: Real aim for Levante revenge 9 February 2012
Real Madrid hold a healthy seven-point lead atop La Liga ahead of Sunday's meeting with Levante, while Barcelona visit Osasuna. Despite speculation suggesting Jose Mourinho will depart the Santiago Bernabeu at the end of the season, an 18th-minute winner from Sergio Ramos saw Real continue their fine form with a 1-0 victory at Getafe last time out.
Mourinho has been linked with a return to the English Premier League, but Real forward Jose Callejon believes the Portuguese tactician will remain with the La Liga giants."I do not believe Mourinho will go at the end of the season, because he is happy here," Callejon said on Wednesday."He really wants to work hard and to do things well. I think he is calm and really wants to win a lot of trophies."
They host a Levante side clinging to fourth spot, winless in six outings after a stunning start to the campaign, which included a shock 1-0 win over Real in September.Meanwhile, Barca's chase of their rivals continues with a trip to ninth-placed Osasuna.
Several players - including Andres Iniesta, Sergio Busquets and Pedro - are hopeful of recovering from injury in time for Saturday's encounter. Another slip-up from Barca could cost them any chance of retaining their title.
In other matches, third-placed Valencia, 11 points adrift of Barca, take on lowly Sporting Gijon at Estadio Mestalla on Sunday.Inaki Tejada has been confirmed as Sporting Gijon boss until the end of the season, with his team's 1-1 draw at home to Osasuna bringing them to within four points of safety.
Espanyol will be out to extend their unbeaten league run to eight matches when they host bottom-placed Real Zaragoza.Atletico Madrid, who have kept six consecutive clean sheets and are unbeaten under Diego Simeone, visit Racing Santander, while Athletic Bilbao travel to Real Betis, both on Saturday.
Villarreal will look to continue their resurgence under Jose Molina when they host Granada on Sunday.Elsewhere, Malaga face Mallorca, mid-table sides Getafe and Rayo Vallecano meet and Real Sociedad host Sevilla.
The Spanish football league (LFP) has broken off talks with the players' union (AFE) on a wide-ranging agreement covering wages and working conditions, the LFP said on Thursday, raising the prospect of another strike disrupting the La Liga calendar.
The season started a week late in August after the AFE called a stoppage as part of a bid to help players whose wages had not been paid, especially those at clubs suffering from financial difficulties.
A preliminary deal was struck which allowed the season to get under way and the two sides have been negotiating on a variety of issues since then but the LFP said it had now been forced to halt talks in the face of what it described as AFE "intransigence".
AFE officials were not immediately available for comment.
"After months of talks, the LFP yesterday felt obliged to break off negotiations over a Collective Accord for professional soccer given the intransigence of the AFE's position at the table," the LFP said.
Among issues on which agreement had not been possible were a new salary structure, players' image rights and disciplinary measures, the league added.
Mascherano sent off inside tunnel following Barcelona's defeat to Osasuna The Argentine was shown a second yellow card for dissent towards referee Jose Romero after the match, while coach Pep Guardiola was also booked for the same reason
Pedro 'saddened' by Barcelona's defeat to Osasuna The winger has expressed his disdain at the result, but more so at their failure to overcome the Pamplona side, as the champions now face falling 10 points behind Real Madrid
'My children go to bed wearing Espanyol pyjamas' - Mauricio Pochettino plays down Real Madrid rumours The Argentine trainer has refuted suggestions he could replace Jose Mourinho in the Blancos hotseat after using an anecdote about his children to pledge his loyalty
Real Madrid duo Carvalho and Khedira passed fit for Levante clash The pair has successfully recovered from injuries and are available for selection, while Marcelo and Angel Di Maria are not yet ready to return
Adil Rami flattered by Barcelona link The France international is delighted with rumours suggesting the Catalans are interested in his services, but revealed he is focused solely on los Che at the moment
Jose Mourinho attacks press over questions on his Real Madrid future: Ask your imaginary sources The Portuguese refused to comment on rumours he may be leaving the Santiago Bernabeu to return to the Premier League in the summer, saying the press should 'have all the answers'
Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho: February is a harder month for us than for Barcelona The Portuguese coach has stated that the Santiago Bernabeu outfit have more difficult games to play than their Catalan rivals, as the capital-city side look to stay top of La Liga
Gabi targets top-four finish for Atletico Madrid The capital-city side are unbeaten since Diego Simeone took over as the new coach at the Vicente Calderon and the 28-year-old is eyeing Champions League qualification
Anti-Spanish sentiment, Barcelona's 'obsession' & Catalans celebrating at Cibeles - why Real Madrid don't want the Copa del Rey final at the Santiago Bernabeu The capital club are doing everything in their power to prevent their fiercest rivals from turning their famous ground into a Blaugrana base for the day against Athletic Bilbao
Athletic Bilbao boss Bielsa stays out of Copa del Rey final debate The Basques will meet Barcelona in the showpiece event and that is the cause of much concern as some fans from both sides booed the national anthem in the 2009 decider
Barcelona's Pep Guardiola can understand why Real Madrid are against staging Copa del Rey final
The Catalans will take on Bilbao in the showpiece event, which has raised alarm bells in the capital as the national anthem was booed when the two sides met in the 2009 decider
Van Persie denies expressing interest in joining Real Madrid
Marca stated that the player said he was open to moving to the Santiago Bernabeu during a telephone conversation on Thursday, but the Dutchman claims he never spoke to the paper
Andoni Zubizarreta confident Pep Guardiola will sign new Barcelona deal
The Catalan club's chief said there are strong indications that the Spanish coach will sign a new deal and stressed he is not thinking about new choices for the Camp Nou hot-seat
Jordi Alba: I was not disrespectful to Valencia
The 22-year-old is not worried that his comments will stir up trouble at Mestalla and reiterated that he still dreams of making his mark at Camp Nou
Rafa Benitez: Real Madrid are the favourites to win La Liga
The Spanish coach says that Jose Mourinho's side are in the driving seat for the Primera Division title, while revealing that he is interested in returning to the Premier League
La Liga wrap: Barcelona title hopes dive after Osasuna loss 12 February 2012
Barcelona's hopes of retaining their La Liga crown suffered a further blow with a 3-2 loss away to Osasuna on Saturday.The hosts got off to an ideal start at Estadio Reyna de Navarra.In the fourth minute, Raul Garcia received the ball on the edge of the 18-yard box and flicked it on to a sprinting Dejan Lekic, who buried his strike past Victor Valdes to open scoring.
Pep Guardiola's men attempted to fight back but struggled to establish their quick, one-touch passing game on the frozen pitch.The hosts declined to sit back and defend their lead, soon finding themselves 2-0 ahead.After being picked out by Garcia on the right flank, Alvaro Cejudo looped in a cross which found the surging Lekic, and the Serbian tapped past Valdes for his second of the match.
The first half ended with Barca beginning to dominate possession, but they proved incapable of forcing a meaningful attempt on goal.Barcelona did pull one back five minutes into the second half, with Isaac Cuenca responsible.The half-time substitute centred a cross from the right and found Alexis Sanchez unmarked, with the Chile international sliding the ball past Osasuna goalkeeper Andres Fernandez.
But the home side soon had a third goal when Garcia netted to give Osasuna a decisive advantage.The reigning champions refused to give up without a fight, as another substitute, Christian Tello, made it 3-2 with 18 minutes remaining.After being picked out on the right, Tello beat his marker before blasting past Fernandez from close range.
Barca looked to have equalised when Alexis found the back of the net after Lionel Messi's cross, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.The heavyweight visitors continued to press their opponents right up until to the final whistle, but they could not find an equaliser and stumble to their second defeat of the league season.
Following the loss, Barca could find themselves 10 points adrift of top spot if Real Madrid beat Levante at home on Sunday.In other matches, Nelson's 91st-minute strike saw Real Betis snatch a 2-1 win at home to 10-man Athletic Bilbao. Ruben Castro opened the scoring for hosts Betis 10 minutes into the match Estadio Benito Villamarin, with Javi Martinez pulling one back for Athletic.
Athletic were reduced to 10 men when goal-scorer Martinez committed a second bookable offence in the 64th minute.Finally, Racing Santander played out a 0-0 draw in their match at home to Atletico Madrid.
Mascherano sent off inside tunnel following Barcelona's defeat to Osasuna
The Argentine was shown a second yellow card for dissent towards referee Jose Romero after the match, while coach Pep Guardiola was also booked for the same reason
Feb 11, 2012 11:30:00 PM
By Livio Caferoglu
Barcelona midfielder Javier Mascherano was sent off in the tunnel following a heated confrontation with the referee after his side's 3-2 loss to Osasuna on Saturday.
The former Liverpool man was yellow carded on 88 minutes by Jose Romero for protesting a decision, but shortly after the game, he was shown a second yellow for a subsequent act of dissent towards the match official.
Romero also added in his post-match report that coach Pep Guardiola was penalised on the grounds of protesting in the latter stages of the encounter.
Barcelona remain seven points behind Real Madrid at the Primera Division summit, but could fall further behind if the Blancos beat Levante on Sunday.
Anti-Spanish sentiment, Barcelona's 'obsession' & Catalans celebrating at Cibeles - why Real Madrid don't want the Copa del Rey final at the Santiago Bernabeu The capital club are doing everything in their power to prevent their fiercest rivals from turning their famous ground into a Blaugrana base for the day against Athletic Bilbao
Feb 11, 2012 9:00:00 AM
By Ben Hayward | Spanish Football Editor
History is repeating itself. Two years on, Athletic Bilbao and Barcelona meet again in the final of the Copa del Rey. The country's two most successful cup sides will play out the showpiece in late May in what promises to be a memorable occasion.
There is only one problem: currently, no venue has been decided for the Copa's climax. And, as it turns out, that's quite a big problem indeed; both Barca and Athletic want to play the final at the Santiago Bernabeu - but Real Madrid do not and will do everything in their power to avoid the fixture from taking place at their famous fiefdom.
Athletic favour a final at the Bernabeu because it is one of just two grounds which will allow the side's supporters to travel in their numbers for the showpiece event. The other is Camp Nou, which is not a neutral venue.
Two years ago, thousands of Athletic fans were left disappointed as the club received an allocation of just 18,720 seats for the game at the Mestalla - their first final appearance in 24 years.
Barcelona were given the same amount of seats and scores of frustrated fans from Catalunya were unable to make the short trip down the coast to support their side, either.
So Barca, who lost last season's showpiece to Madrid at the Mestalla, do not favour a third trip to Valencia in four years, either.
Big enough, but not neutral ... | Barca's Camp Nou is a possible venue for the final
Valencia president Manuel Llorente has told the Spanish Football Federation [RFEF] that he is happy to house the two teams again this year, while Atletico Madrid's Vicente Calderon has been mooted as an another possible venue. That, however, seems less likely still because the Calderon's capacity is slightly lower than that of the Mestalla - plus, the ground is set to host a Coldplay concert just days before the Copa concludes.
That, then, leaves just one option: the Bernabeu. Madrid's magnificent home can house just over 80,000 fans, satisfying the demands of both sets of supporters, while it is also a neutral venue and is essentially equidistant for both bands of travelling fans.
Rational reasoning and pragmatic planning it may be, but none of those arguments will find favour in the capital.
For Madrid remember the last time that Athletic and Barca met in a final at their famous home, in 1984, when the Basques claimed a narrow victory in a spectacle spoiled by a violent brawl following the final whistle; they recall that in 2004, their Catalan rivals refused to cede Camp Nou for their own Copa clash against Zaragoza - forcing them to play at Montjuic; and, as a proud club from Castile, they cannot bear a repeat of the anti-Spanish sentiment from the 2009 showpiece, when nationalist supporters of the two clubs booed the Spanish anthem before kick-off.
The normal thing would be to play the final at a neutral venue. The Bernabeu would be a good ground for the final, but I can understand the reluctance of Real Madrid
- Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola
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But most of all, they don't want Barca celebrating a trophy on their patch, like in 1997, when the Catalans beat Betis 3-2 at the Bernabeu and the Blaugrana blasted their club anthem from the speakers of Madrid's sacred stadium.
Barca, of course, will be firm favourites to claim the trophy and such a situation has Madrid fans filled with fear as many Catalans have already taunted their Real rivals with claims that they will descend on Madrid's famous fountain, Cibeles, to celebrate yet another title, having eliminated Mourinho's men en route to the final.
There was similar concern in the capital in 2010, as the Catalans closed in on a Champions League final appearance at the Bernabeu. But they were utimately denied, much to Real's relief, by Inter - and by Jose Mourinho himself, in his last match before moving to the Spanish side.
In his pre-match press conference ahead of Inter's semi-final second leg against Barca, Mourinho mused that for the Catalans, winning the Champions League at the Bernabeu was an 'obsession' which meant more to them than the trophy itself. Provocative he may have been, but he had a point; Barca fans were indeed desperate to rub it in - right under Madrid fans' noses.
They couldn't, of course, as they didn't make the final. And they are unlikely to be able to this time, either, as Madrid stubbornly resist, citing planned stadium improvements and security risks.
For us, the Bernabeu would be perfect because it would allow us to take as many fans as possible to the final. We we want as many of them as possible to come to the match and support us
- Athletic Bilbao captain Andoni Iraola
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Barca have offered Camp Nou as an alternative, but many of their fans are wary after seeing how Madrid suffered defeat at home to Deportivo La Coruna in the 2002 final at the Bernabeu, while Athletic believe that such a choice would give the Catalans an unfair advantage in a game which should in theory be played at a neutral ground.
However, if Athletic and Barca both want 30,000 fans in the stadium for the final, Camp Nou looks like the only other option. So by refusing to cede the Bernabeu, Madrid are arguably facilitating yet another trophy for the Catalan club. But even that is seemingly a favourable alternative to seeing Barcelona celebrating in their own back yard. Again.
Ultimately, politics plays its part in football, too. So when the venue for this year's Copa del Rey final is announced by the RFEF on Monday, don't be surprised if it's not in Madrid. And if it is, expect all hell to break loose.
Jose Mourinho attacks press over questions on his Real Madrid future: Ask your imaginary sources The Portuguese refused to comment on rumours he may be leaving the Santiago Bernabeu to return to the Premier League in the summer, saying the press should 'have all the answers'
Feb 11, 2012 2:15:00 PM
By Ben Hayward
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has refused to comment on rumours he may be leaving the Santiago Bernabeu this summer in order to return to the Premier League, but launched an astonishing attack on the local press and their 'imaginary sources' on Saturday.
Reports of a possible Mourinho departure first appeared on Spanish show Punto Pelota late last month, with the programme claiming the Portuguese was unhappy at the Bernabeu and ready to end his spell in Spain.
A report in The Sunday Times a week later then claimed Mourinho was looking to move back to the Premier League, with both Chelsea and Tottenham mooted as possible destinations.
But quizzed on his future on Saturday, in his pre-match press conference ahead of tomorrow's game at home to Levante in La Liga, the Portuguese replied: "I think you should know my answer. I am not the one feeding [these rumours].
"You should ask your sources, which for you are anonymous but for me more than anonymous are imaginary. [I have] no more to say."
This comes just a day after it was reported in Spain that Mourinho had enjoyed an amicable meeting with the Madrid board on Friday and assured them he would not be leaving the club this summer.
Some sectors of the media in Spain have also reported that the Portuguese is already planning pre-season for his Madrid side, who lead fierce rivals Barcelona by seven points ahead of this weekend's Liga action.
Gonzalo Higuain: La Liga is in Real Madrid's hands
The Argentine, along with his team-mates Karim Benzema and Alvaro Arbeloa recognise that their side have a commanding lead in the title race, but are taking nothing for granted
Barcelona starlet Marc Muniesa eyes first-team place
The club's sporting director, Andoni Zubizarreta, announced last week that the 19-year-old defender would be promoted from the B team to the senior side next season
Higuain, Lavezzi and Nani on Juventus hit-list as they look for big summer swoop - report
The club are keen to underline their re-emergence as a major force in the Italian game by making a high-profile signing at the end of the season
Zubizarreta admits catching Real Madrid will be complicated
The former Barca goalkeeper has conceded that retaining the Primera Division title will be tough for Pep Guardiola's men after falling 10 points behind the Blancos
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson: Despite Real Madrid getting better, Barcelona at their best are unstoppable
The Old Trafford manager has taken the time to praise the Catalan giants, and feels they are the number one team in the world when all their stars are in form
Way out in front - but Real Madrid have had to come from behind six times in La Liga this season
Jose Mourinho's men have been hit by an early goal at home on five occasions this term, but as against Levante on Sunday, have managed to win them all to lead La Liga by 10 points
Barcelona defender Gerard Pique involved in car crash
The Spain international was hit by another vehicle whilst on his way to Camp Nou, but escaped without sustaining any serious injuries and will not miss any action on the pitch
Cristiano Ronaldo pulls away from Lionel Messi & Robin van Persie in Golden Shoe race
The Portuguese scored a hat-trick in a weekend where his adversaries failed to score. Elsewhere, Wayne Rooney moved into the reckoning thanks to his double against Liverpool
Manuel Friedrich insists Bayer Leverkusen should not have too much respect for Barcelona
The experienced defender is eagerly anticipating the Champions League round of 16 tie versus the Catalans, and has urged his team-mates to belief in themselves
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho: Cristiano Ronaldo's third goal against Levante was incredible and fantastic
The Portuguese trainer has taken the time to praise the Fifa Ballon d'Or runner-up, while club icon Emilio Butragueno was equally impressed with the ex-Manchester United man
Spanish Football Federation to decide venue for Copa del Rey final between Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao on Monday
The governing body is expected to agree early this week where the last game of the tournament between the two Primera Division outfits will be played
Real Madrid's Pepe: The media has portrayed me like I'm a murderer
The Portugal international has hit out at the Spanish press over what he sees as unfair treatment, and is confident that head coach Jose Mourinho will not leave the club
Real Madrid coach Mourinho: Big lead over Barcelona gives us some room for error
The Portuguese has admitted that los Blancos are looking good for the Liga title, but stressed that the season isn't over just yet despite a 10-point lead lead over Barca
Roberto Carlos: Jose Mourinho told me he will stay at Real Madrid
The Portuguese coach is allegedly keen to stay at the Bernabeu at least one more year as Los Blancos edge closer to their first La Liga title since 2008
Cristiano Ronaldo: Real Madrid have not yet won La Liga
The 27-year-old forward is happy with his form after topping the league's scoring charts but underlines that Los Blancos have not yet secured the title
Champions League qualification will be hard, says Valencia's Unai Emery
The Spanish coach was happy with the comfortable result at Mestalla but warned his players that they will have to work hard to retain the third place in the table
Carles Puyol: La Liga not over yet for Barcelona, but beating Madrid will be tough
The Catalans' skipper has admitted that they face a difficult task to leapfrog Real Madrid in the table, but is adamant that they're not giving up yet
Barcelona's Isaac Cuenca: We should not look for excuses
The young attacker has admitted that things are difficult for the Catalans away from home, and added Barca will not give up on reclaiming the domestic title despite Madrid's lead
Barcelona's Iniesta defiant after 'painful loss' to Osasuna
The Catalans' hopes of retaining their Spanish title are in tatters after their shock 3-2 defeat in Pamplona and the midfielder believes that they now need to focus on Europe
Barcelona boss Guardiola refuses to throw in the towel after Osasuna defeat
The Catalans could have reduced the gap on Real Madrid to four points but they now look set to end the weekend 10 points in arrears, with their rivals hosting Levante on Sunday
Gerard Pique: Barcelona won't give up on La Liga
The Catalans are likely to end the weekend 10 points in arrears of leaders Real Madrid but the centre-back insists that they will keep fighting right until the end
Spanish Football Federation to decide venue for Copa del Rey final between Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao on Monday The governing body is expected to agree early this week where the last game of the tournament between the two Primera Division outfits will be played
Feb 13, 2012 10:20:00 AM
By Stefan Coerts
Representatives of the Spanish football federation (RFEF), Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao will meet at Las Rozas on Monday to make a decision about where the final of the Copa del Rey should be played this season.
The spectacle is scheduled to take place at the Santiago Bernabeu, and both Pep Guardiola and Marcelo Bielsa are in favour of playing at Real Madrid's stadium in order to allow as many supporters as possible to watch the game in person.
Additionally, Madrid coach Jose Mourinho stressed on Sunday that he wouldn't mind seeing the event taking place at the Bernabeu. "I won't play the Copa del Rey final, so I don't care if it's held here or in China," the Portuguese coach commented.
However, the current La Liga leaders are believed to be reluctant to host this year's edition of the cup final, although they have not officially approached the RFEF, as they have scheduled maintenance during the week of the game.
Therefore, the RFEF is considering moving the final to another venue, and both Sevilla's Estadio de la Cartuja and Valencia's Mestalla are candidates to host the fixture.
The 2009 Copa del Rey final between Barcelona and Bilbao was held at Mestalla, with the Catalans recording a 4-1 victory.
Dani Alves: Barcelona will never be allowed to play a final at the Santiago Bernabeu
Real Madrid are against staging a clash between the Catalans and their Basque rivals at their home ground because of the alleged anti-Spanish feeling among some of their fans
'We were robbed; the referee was on Real Madrid's side', says Levante defender Gustavo Cabral
The Argentine defender has hit out at the referee after Los Blancos came from behind to win at the Bernabeu, and believes Sergio Ramos should have been sent off
Busquets resumes full training for Barcelona ahead of Bayer Leverkusen Champions League clash
The Spain international midfielder has trained normally with the rest of the Blaugrana squad and could be given a starting-XI place in the match at the BayArena
Tottenham place Jose Mourinho top of their shortlist to replace Harry Redknapp
The Spurs boss is the overwhelming favourite to replace Fabio Capello as England manager - and the north Londoners have been putting contingency plans in place
Nilmar 'happy' to stay at Villarreal after Sao Paulo deal collapsed
The Brazilian striker is delighted that he is playing once again for the club but admitted that a transfer could happen in the future if a good offer arrives
Official: Sporting Gijon appoint Javier Clemente as coach
The former Spain and Serbia coach will take charge of the struggling Liga team and will hope to guide them to safety after their poor start to the season
'My biggest concern is facing Bayer Leverkusen' - Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola shrugs off Osasuna criticism as Champions League clash looms
The former Spain international has been accused of throwing away the Catalans' La Liga hopes by resting players for Tuesday night's clash with the German side
Former Barcelona defender Gbenga Okunowo: I want to retire in Nigeria
The ex-Catalan right back has returned home after an adventurous sojourn in Europe and Asia, and he now plans to retire with Sunshine Stars
New Sporting Gijon coach Javier Clemente: I won't waste time playing pretty football
The former Spain boss vowed to put the relegation-threatened Asturian club back on the winning track during his presentation to the media
Pep Guardiola insists Gerard Pique is untouchable at Barcelona
The 41-year-old has stressed that the centre-back is still a key player for the Catalans and revealed that he didn't feature on Tuesday in order to keep him fit for the weekend
Villarreal star Borja Valero flattered by Real Madrid interest
The gifted midfielder was recently linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu, but he is unsure whether they are willing to meet his current club's demands
Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone looking forward to emotional return to Lazio for Europa League clash
The former Lazio player has revealed that Thursday’s trip back to the Stadio Olimpico will be an emotional return, but is focussed only on progression for Atleti
Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola rues final passes and misuse of first-half space
The Catalan coach believes his side could have done better in the first 45 minutes, but admitted he was happy as the champions ran out 3-1 winners over Bayer Leverkusen On Tuesday
Alexis looks ahead to 'difficult' second leg as Leverkusen boss Dutt laments showing Barcelona 'too much respect'
The German boss admitted defeat as the home side suffered a night to forget with Guardiola's men running riot, while Sanchez and Busquets expressed joy with their dominant display
Atletico Madrid boss Simeone braced for tough test against Lazio
The former Biancocelesti favourite is expected to get a warm welcome from the Stadio Olimpico, but he is expecting a rough ride on the field for the Rojiblancos
Spanish Football Federation cannot force Real Madrid to host Copa del Rey final
Los Blancos are unwilling to hand over their home ground, the Santiago Bernabeu, for the showpiece event because it will be contested by Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao
Spanish Football Federation cannot force Real Madrid to host Copa del Rey final Los Blancos are unwilling to hand over their home ground, the Santiago Bernabeu, for the showpiece event because it will be contested by Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao
Feb 14, 2012 5:00:00 PM
By Mark Doyle
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has admitted that it cannot force Real Madrid to host this year's Copa del Rey final.
Los Blancos are unwilling to hand over their home ground, the Santiago Bernabeu, for the showpiece event because it will be contested by Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao.
When the Catalans and the Basques last met in the tournament decider, at Mestalla in 2009, the Spanish national anthem was booed by fans from both clubs.
Madrid seemingly want to avoid a repeat performance at the Bernabeu, leaving the RFEF in a difficult position given that the only venue of a similar capacity is Barcelona's Camp Nou, which would put Bilbao at an obvious disadvantage.
Consequently, a return to Valencia is now the most likely solution.
"We can not force Real Madrid to host the final at the Bernabeu," RFEF spokesman Jorge Carretero told Deportes COPE. "If we cannot play at the Bernabeu, it will be at Mestalla."
Barcelona have already expressed their view that the Bernabeu is the only viable option for the final because of its capacity of 85,454.
Barcelona tracking Internacional duo Leandro Damiao and Oscar - report
The pair are considered two of Brazil's most exciting young talents and the Catalans apparently considered making a move for both players last summer
Roberto Carlos: Real Madrid's Mourinho the best coach in the world
The former Los Blancos ace has served under some of the most respected figures in world football during his illustrious career but he is in no doubt as to who is number one
Barcelona star David Villa targets return to action against Real Madrid in April - report
The 30-year-old is due to start running at the end of the month and hopes to return in time for the next Clasico at Camp Nou
Ramon Calderon blasts small-minded Madrid over Copa del Rey controversy
Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao are scheduled to meet in the showpiece event and the Spanish national anthem was booed the last time the pair met in the tournament decider
Real Madrid to set up football academies in Iraq
Club representative Miguel Mutton revealed that the centres, which will be based in the cities of Erbil, Dohuk and Sulaymaniyah, are scheduled to open in June of next year
Jose Mourinho: It would be a success even if we beat Barcelona to the title by just one point
The outspoken Portuguese has admitted that he would like his side to wrap up La Liga as early as possible, but would happily take a one-point cushion at the end of the term
Alexis Sanchez is the perfect player for Barcelona, says Ronald Koeman
The Feyenoord coach has voiced his admiration of the Chile international as he feels the 23-year-old's qualities give something extra to the Blaugrana squad
Barcelona shot-stopper Victor Valdes: Gerard Pique is the best centre-back in the world
The experienced goalkeeper has played down the former Manchester United defender's Champions League absence as he labels him the best player in his position
Official: Legia Warsaw sign Sporting de Gijon striker Nacho Novo
The former Rangers striker has signed an 18-month deal with the Polish side after finding his playing opportunities very hard to come by at the Asturians
David Albelda signs one-year extension with Valencia
The Spanish veteran has commited his future to the Mestalla club after weeks of negotiations regarding a new contract
'Real Madrid get stronger each day,' says Pepe
The Portuguese defender is delighted with the success the club are having this season, while Marcelo praised the atmosphere in the dressing room
Evaristo: Neymar should choose Barcelona over Real Madrid
The former Brazil international, who featured for both clubs during his illustrious playing career, believes that his compatriot would be better served by moving to Camp Nou
Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes: We can still win La Liga
The Blaugrana shot-stopper feels the Champions League win over Leverkusen was important for morale and says his team-mates must believe in themselves for the rest of the campaign
Di Stefano donates 659 personal possessions to Real Madrid museum
The 85-year-old explained that he received offers from elsewhere for the memorabilia but felt that they belonged at the Santiago Bernabeu
Barcelona star Xavi: Leg injury is no big deal
The Spain international has played just one of the Blaugrana's last five matches due to a swollen calf muscle, but insists the setback is not a huge concern
Porto president Pinto da Costa expects Jose Mourinho to stay put at Real Madrid
The patron is certain his former protege will not make a sensational return to Chelsea in the summer, and also offered his backing to embattled Blues boss Andre Villas-Boas
Barcelona attacker Afellay resumes training after lengthy injury lay-off
The Dutchman has been working on his recovery in the past five months and is slowly nearing his comeback as the Blaugrana are hopeful he can return to action this season
Lionel Messi to become youngest-ever Barcelona player to make 200 league appearances
The Argentina international is set to rack up two centuries worth of La Liga matches in the game against Valencia at the weekend, setting a new Blaugrana record due to his age
Agent of Barcelona target Jordi Alba states Valencia extension talks are heading in the right direction
The Mestalla-based club and the young wing-back have long been in talks about a new deal and are seemingly nearing an agreement, with Barcelona closely monitoring his situation
Rogerio Ceni: Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho is one of the best coaches in history
The experienced Brazilian goalkeeper is full of praise for the Portuguese trainer, and feels the former Inter tactician's man-management is second to none
Vialli: Guardiola could coach Inter next season
The retired striker believes that the highly-successful coach could join the Nerazzurri at the end of the season as his Barca contract is coming to an end
'Ten-point gap between Real Madrid and Barcelona is a lot,' says Vicente del Bosque
The 61-year-old coach believes that the Camp Nou club will have a hard time to retain their Liga title, while stating the Copa del Rey final deserves the 'best possible venue'
Guardiola plays down significance of 'Inter' scarf
The former Spain midfielder's current contract with the Catalans expires at the end of the season and has been linked with taking over the Nerazzurri in the past
Thibaut Courtois eyeing another loan move
The Belgian goalkeeper joined Chelsea from Genk last summer but was promptly farmed out to Atletico Madrid for the duration of the 2011-12 campaign
Real Madrid to set up football academies in Iraq Club representative Miguel Mutton revealed that the centres, which will be based in the cities of Erbil, Dohuk and Sulaymaniyah, are scheduled to open in June of next year
Feb 17, 2012 1:41:00 PM
By Mark Doyle
Real Madrid announced that they have reached an agreement with the Iraqi ministry of sports and youth over the creation of football academies within the country.
Club representative Miguel Mutton revealed that the centres, which will be based in the cities of Erbil, Dohuk and Sulaymaniyah in the Province of Kurdistan, are scheduled to open in June of next year.
“At this stage, it is important for both sides to enhance the self-confidence of those players who will join the academy as well as educate them, because that is the project’s first priority,” he stated.
“We have concluded the agreement and I want to assure you that during the next few months we will return back to Kurdistan to take things into action.
“I want to emphasise that these academies are very important to us.”
Madrid currently have academies in 62 countries around the globe and are in the process of establishing 190 more.
'I want to continue until I drop' - David Albelda pleased to extend Valencia contract The Mestalla veteran recently agreed to play on for another season and admits that the allure of turning out for Los Che is something that he does not want to give up
Sergio Canales eager to return to action for Valencia The Spanish youngster is determined to return to action after a lengthy spell on the sidelines but insisted that he will not do so before he is fully fit
Vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu: I do not think that Guardiola's story with Barcelona is over
The Catalan club's chief has hailed the coach's achievements since taking over the team and hinted that he is interested in remaining despite not signing a new deal yet
Emilio Butragueno: Jose Mourinho is happy at Real Madrid
It was claimed last month that the Portuguese had already decided to quit the club at the end of the season and he has been heavily linked with Tottenham Hotspur of late
La Liga preview: Valencia to test Barcelona at Camp Nou 16 February 2012
Barcelona face a tough task against Valencia this weekend as La Liga leaders Real Madrid look set to run away with the title.Pep Guardiola's men have slipped 10 points adrift of Real Madrid after dropping points in two of their past three league outings.
A brace from Alexis Sanchez helped Barcelona to a 3-1 win at Bayer Leverkusen in their Champions League round-of-16 first-leg outing, a performance Guardiola was pleased with.They host a Valencia side sitting third, having claimed their first league win of the year on Sunday, a 4-0 thrashing of strugglers Sporting Gijon.
Barcelona's home record this league campaign is superb, with 10 wins and a draw that features 45 goals scored and just three conceded.Just over a week ago Barcelona knocked Valencia out of the Copa del Rey, and they will enter Sunday's clash as favourites with Lionel Messi hungry to add to his 23 league goals.
Meanwhile, Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid host 18th-placed Racing Santander on Saturday.The clash could provide an opportunity for Mourinho to rest several stars ahead of his team's midweek Champions League trip to CSKA Moscow.Copa del Rey finalists Athletic Bilbao welcome Malaga to Estadio San Mames as they aim to rebound from their 2-1 loss against Real Betis.
Atletico Madrid remain unbeaten under Diego Simeone and travel to Sporting Gijon, who unveiled Javier Clemente as their new boss on Tuesday.Levante continue to hang onto fourth spot despite still being winless in the league this year, and their next chance to end that run is a clash at home to Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.
Espanyol missed their chance to displace Levante after a loss to Real Zaragoza, and they meet Getafe on Saturday. Villarreal are unbeaten in four matches and have moved three points clear of the drop zone ahead of their clash against Mallorca.
Sevilla will be searching for their first league win of 2012 when they host Osasuna on Saturday, while Real Sociedad visit Granada a day later.After a 2-0 win over Espanyol, Real Zaragoza moved to within 10 points of safety ahead of their clash at home to Real Betis on Monday.
La Liga wrap: Real win again, Espanyol held 19 February 2012
Real Madrid increased their lead at the top of La Liga to 13 points on Saturday with a comfortable 4-0 home win over struggling Racing Santander.
Real went ahead in the sixth minute through Cristiano Ronaldo's header before Racing were reduced to 10 men when Domingo Cisma was shown a second yellow card six minutes before the break.
The hosts headed to the interval 2-0 up thanks to a Karim Benzema strike, Angel di Maria marked his return from injury with a superb strike in the 73rd minute before Benzema added his second two minutes from the end.
The win gives Jose Mourinho's men a 13-point cushion at the top of La Liga with second-placed Barcelona not in action until Sunday, when they face a tricky test against third-placed Valencia.
Elsewhere on Saturday, fourth-placed Espanyol were held to a 1-1 draw at Getafe.
The hosts needed a 70th-minute penalty from Nicolas Fedor to secure a point, after Alvaro had put Espanyol ahead four minutes earlier.
And Sevilla defeated Osasuna 2-0, with goals from Gary Medel and Piotr Trochowski doing the damage for the home side.
