Fabio Capello has called-up eighteen players for the Wednesday night Champions League meeting. Beckham is back on the squad list after his absence in Tarragona and Emerson will be able to feature having recovered from his ankle sprain. The team meets for pre-match preparation this evening at 8:30 pm CET.
No surprises in the squad list. Cicinho is now the only injured player. Salgado and Cassano will be absent for technical decisions. The rest of the squad has been called up by Capello. A total of eighteen players who will be responsible of attempting to win this match, something that would surely more than pave the way to qualify for the Last 16 stage fo the Champions League.
Salgado out of list The coaching staff has decided that it is still too soon for the Galician fullback to make his comeback. He only trained last Friday for the first time since his almost 2-month absence following his injury in Day 2 of the League against Levante. He is doing better with every passing day and little by little he will definitely be in Capello's squad lists for the different competitions.
David Beckham is definitely back The English winger has recovered from the knee niggle and groin strain that aborted his trip to Catalonia for the match against Nastic. And so... he will be able to feature against Steaua if the manager sees it fit. Also back after injury is Emerson. The Brazilian international suffered a mild ankle sprain during the last League match in Tarragona and has been working with the Club's physios to make a prompt recovery and be able to rejoin group discipline. Mission accomplished: this mornig, he trained normally with the rest of the squad.
"Steaua are performingwell away. There are no easy games"
On his 30th birthday, the team's playmaker gave a press conference before the Champions League match against Steaua, of whom he says, “They will not be an easy rival.” He also spoke of the Cassano affair, pointing out, “This type of things can't happen and we have to assume the Club's decision.”
At 30, is the best of you as a player just around the corner? I hope so. For me and for the team. I'm really hoping to win something this year.
What do you most cherish of the fifteen years you have been at Real Madrid? The good and the bad alike. I have grown personally and from a footballing perspective. I'm very happy with my fifteen years here.
What wears you down more, your age or all the responsibility you now have? My age. I'm not a kid anymore. But I remember my debut at 19 and mentally I feel like not a day has gone by. I'm still as hungry for titles and winning in general.
What's it been like over the last few hours? The past is long gone. This is another era at the Club and we can't let the past catch up with us. The Club has taken a decision and we all need to assume it. We would like to be training together, all of us. We spoke to Antonio and we tried to cheer him up. It's a situation that's hard to understand and we hope it never happens again.
Do you agree with the disciplinary action? We agree that this type of things cant's happen. Respect has to be above all else here, for everyone alike, whether it's Cassano or anyone else. But I must confess that all this is new to me.
Did he say he was sorry? He's sad. In the heat of the moment, he said things that he now regrets having said. He now has to train and wait for his chance to get back with the team. Will this match be easier than the away leg? There are no easy games. They're a good team. They're performing well away, with fast players ahead. We respect them, but we are going to come out real strong, out to get them and solve the game from the very beginning. It's an important encounter for both teams: we haven't qualified yet and they need to win here in order to aspire to do so.
Should Cassano's suspension be lifted if he says he's sorry. I've already said my piece regarding this. As a friend, I would like him to be back ASAP. But that's me and it's not for me to make this decision, rightfully so.
Real Madrid suffer when the opponents mark you closely and stop you from deploying your game. What are the ways around this? There's got to be because against Nastic I didn't play well and the team won. It's not enough with stopping Guti. There's great players like Raul, and others who are very strong and score goals and are very dangerous. One team is not a one-man affair.
What player would you highlight in Steaua? Before they had players like Hagi and now they have players like Nicolita…They're very good.
Until Roberto Carlos scored in Tarragona, the team did not play well. We didn't play well but we adapted to the small and narrow field of play. It is true that we didn't do well until they took a step down, but we won, and that was the most important thing. There will be games like this in the future and even if we play poorly, we need to win them.
Report by Luis Navarro Photos by David R. Anchuelo Translation by Luis Orueta
Mijatovic on Cassano's supension: "Real Madrid is above self-interest"
Real Madrid's Sporting Director Pedja Mijatovic spoke to several late night Spanish radio programmes to clear up the situation surrounding Italian international Antonio Cassano, who has been suspended and banned from team training for disrespecting the coach. Mijatovic reiterated that there are things which are intolerable in view of the Club's history of excellence.
“It was a hectic day, but I'm used to that. It is still sad to be forced to take this sort of decisions, but we needed to do something. We're the biggest Club in the world and discipline is essential. Players have to abide by the rules and Cassano's offense was serious enough that we needed to take a decision. Players know well enough that they owe the manager and everybody else respect."
"He knows what happened and we are sure he understands. I spoke to him personally. I listened to him and then the coach and I reached a decision, which was subsequently supported by the President and the Board of Directors." "Cassano recognises that he made a mistake. We all know Antonio has a strong character, but above all we want to stress that he's a professional and he cannot, under any circumstance, be rude or offensive to the manager."
"In this respect, the best example is Iván Helguera, who even trained with the third team but never complained. Now he's a starter. He's a superb professional. The decision was tough but it had to be made. Fabio has known Cassano for many years now and knows how he can be, but he's also aware that he has a big heart which, in this case, has led him to accept his punishment.”
“Every player of the first team is important and wants to play, but not all can, obviously. We all understand that they really want it, but it's Capello's job to see how they are doing individually every single day and, henceforth, make a technical decision of who is going to feature. Players have to accept this, whether they like it or not.”
“I am in charge of all the sporting matters and the President trusts me 100% in this area. Ronaldo has been recovering from an injury and it's just a quation of time until he proves himself again. I am sure that he will contribute to the extent we expect of him, playing good football and scoring many goals. He and his circle of trust requested a meeting. We met and I told them that we have all the confidence in the world in Ronaldo and that we count on him. From this point forward, it is all up to the player and his performance. I think Ronaldo understands that now it's Ruud who's playing. The coach makes decisions and they follow his indications.”
“I wanted to tell all the players about the rules and how important it is to follow them, especially here, at Real Madrid. The Club will always be above any form of self-interest. Therefore, when we take this sort of decision, we expect them to assume and respect it. Cassano is not a problem for us. He had a very bad reaction and we had to take disciplinary action. Right now we're uncertain as to how long he will be suspended. It's indefinite for the time being and it will depend on the coach's and my decision when he rejoins the rest of the squad. It was hard for me, because I try to get along with the players and be in the best of terms, but that's the way the ball bounces.”
“We're worried that the news was leaked because this sort of things sgouldn't happen. I would like to know who leaked it because this hurts the dressing room. In any event, leak or noleak, the decision stands.”
Report by Carlos Cristóbal Photography: Realmadrid.com Translation by Luis Orueta
Beckham clears up any speculation about his departure from the Club: "I don't want to leave"
During Monday's press conference, David Beckham assured fans and the press that he is very comfortable with the situation he finds himself in within the team and that negotiations to extend his contract are well underway. “I work hard and all I think about is pleasing the coach,” said the English midfielder, who looked relaxed, content, and with the desire to win back his spot in Fabio Capello's starting eleven.
Have you been offered a contract extension? No, there has been no formal offer, but the Club has been in contact with my representative. They met once last season and once so far this season, but because there have been so many internal changes, things are going a bit slow.
What was the Cassano incident in Tarragona like? I wasn't there. I was injured so I stayed in Madrid. I only heard about it through my teammates, so I can't really comment.
Would you accept being transferred to another team? I haven't even thought about it. I am very happy here, and my family and I want to stay in Madrid. The Club and my representative have held meetings since last season, and they should be meeting again this week or next.
Do you plan on playing well into your 30's? I don't plan on retiring and I think I can be a useful footballer for several more years. I love playing football and I think I have many more years of playing in me.
Could continually being benched affect your future decisions? It's been hard for me, but every footballer goes through this. The manager knows I'm not happy on the bench and he'd be shocked if I was. I respect his decision, but I work as hard as I can each day in order to regain his faith. It's obviously hard for me because I love playing and traveling with the team, but these things happen. Like I said, I want to stay here. I believe in the team and the project, I respect the coach, and I think this is the year we have the best chance of winning a title. I want to be here at the end of the year when this team wins a title. Is your current situation similar to your last year with Manchester United? In some ways it is, but I will do what I have to to get back into the lineup, and I know I will. In my last year with Manchester, I didn't get to play against Real Madrid or Arsenal. But those things happen. It doesn't matter what you did in the past. Ryan Giggs, one of Manchester's best players ever, was heavily criticised during my last years there, and now he's one of the fan and press favourites. I will do everything possible to silence my critics and win a spot in the lineup. Are you closer to reaching an agreement now than you were during the first meeting with Calderón. All I can say is that in every meeting the President has told me that he wants me to stay. The press says things that aren't true, like me wanting to leave. All that matters is what is said in those meetings. Negotiations are going well, but we have to iron out some details. Everything is looking good.
You've left the impression that you miss Manchester. That's something I told an English newspaper two weeks ago, but what I really said was that I miss my friends who play there. I am happy with this new experience. Manchester is in my past. No one can take those great years away from me. Again, what I really said was that I miss my friends, like Gary Neville.
Have you considered returning to the Premiership some day? Not at all. I am happy here. I have been here for several years and I want to stay in Madrid. I will never forget those fantastic years, but I am here now, and I want to stay.
Some people question your speedy recovery. I have had this injury before, and then people also doubted my professionalism. I think it's funny. I play if I can. If not, I don't. I hurt my knee playing against Ecija so I told the manager. I consider myself a professional from head to toe. Today I trained with the team, and even though I haven't fully recovered, I did train. I don't care if anyone wants to doubt my professionalism. That's their problem.
Is the fact that you're not getting playing time delaying the negotiation process? That's not the reason. There are no delays. The first meeting took place last year, but there have been so many changes that things are taking a little longer. The first meeting with this President took place three weeks ago. The next meeting will be this week or next. Things are going as we expected. I read in the papers that they had stopped altogether, which is totally untrue. I don't think I should play every game or live off my name. The team is doing well, and all I can hope for is that I get my chance and that I take advantage of it. We haven't signed anything yet, but the process is going well.
What are your thoughts on Cassano? Antonio didn't train today and I wasn't in Tarragona, so I can't comment on the issue. Cassano is a good person, fun, and professional.
What differences are there between this season and past years? This team works harder physically and tactically. I love the professionalism Capello has brought, and I like his training methods. There is more team unity. The other day someone commented that I said there was a better mentality in England, but that's not what I said. I said they are two different mentalities and both are acceptable. I agree with how we are doing things. We are working better as a team.
Will you have a change of opinion if you haven't signed anything by January? It doesn't matter if nothing has changed by January. I have already said that I'm not leaving. This is a winning team and I want to be part of it. The meetings shouldn't affect me. I am a professional, and whatever happens, happens on the pitch. The press has said the Club will sell me if we don't reach an agreement, but that has nothing to do with what I think. All I have to do is work hard and play good football.
What do you think about the criticism the team's play has received? There will always be criticism. Teams go through patches, and right now we're playing good football. Saturday's game was tough, but we came through in the second half. We also played well against Barça and Steaua, and we'll continue playing better as we gain confidence.
Is Real Madrid negotiating a contract that involves earning less money? It has nothing to do with money. All I care about is playing football. There's a lot of money in football, and we as players earn a lot, but Real Madrid has said nothing about lowering my salary. Money really hasn't been an issue. The meetings focus on other things. All I want to do is concentrate on playing.
Would you sign for less money? That's a hypothetical question that I can't answer right now.
Report by Álvaro Velasco Photos by Daniel Sastre Translation by Matthew Goltz & Luis Orueta
Real Madrid striker Antonio Cassano has been suspended from training following a post-match incident this weekend.
The Italian has started only a handful of games for Real Madrid this season and played no part in Sunday's 3-1 victory over Gimnastic.
A statement from the club said the Italian had shown 'a lack of respect' for coach Fabio Capello after the game but gave no details of what occurred.
Spanish newspaper reports have claimed that Cassano confronted Capello and demanded a more regular place in the side.
"I deserve to play and be a starter," sports newspaper AS quoted Cassano as saying to Capello.
Real Madrid also confirmed that Cassano would be fined for his conduct as well.
The length of his suspension was not specified.
By: Skysports.com Photo By Diario AS: as.com
OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
Antonio Cassano temporarily suspended by Club
Real Madrid C. F. wishes to inform that the Club's Sporting Directors have decided to fine and temporarily suspend Antonio Cassano from team training for disciplinary reasons-disrespecting coach Fabio Capello- stemming from incidents that took place on Saturday 28 October following the match against Nastic.
Roberto Carlos: "We know what to do when we step out onto the pitch"
The Brazilian fullback was the guest star of “Fútbol es Fútbol,” the Sunday night prime-time football program of local Madrid TV station Telemadrid. Roberto Carlos looked back on his ten years at Real Madrid, declaring that he would like to retire with the Whites. He also spoke of their direct rivals for the League title and looked closely into the victory of Madrid in Tarragona's Nou Estadi. The Brazilian opines that Real Madrid “are performing well, improving step by step... and you can tell in the games.”
Improvement We're improving and we have to continue down the same path. The problem isn't that the team is performing badly but that we're playing against tough opponents.
Main League rivals Barcelona are a fixture in world football and the team to beat. They've been together for six years and that has carried them to be the current League and Champions League title-holders.
I don't consider Sevilla League title contenders, but definitely have the talent to compete in the Champions League. I don't think they'll back down; they will be regular all season long.
Victory against Nàstic Nàstic played a great first half and didn't give Emerson or Diarra any space to move the ball. Same thing happended in Bucharest. Madrid perform well when they maintain ball possesssion and fight hard to recover it when they lose it. We've improved in that aspect of the game. Nastic set a really high tempo during the first half, but ten minutes into the second half they gave out. So, at that point, we had fresher legs. A game is 90-minutes worth of effort and whoever is better physically prepared tends to win. We patiently await our opportunity to strike at the right moment.
When I scored the free kick in the dying moments of the first half, it is quite customary for the defenders to jump up slightly. I told Raul to position himself in between to distract the keeper.
Helguera Iván has always shown a good attitude and that should be recognised. He's an example for us all.
Titles We respect the President's opinion. He's always very optimistic, but we need to go one step at a time, although I definitely see us winning a title. We're talented, confidence is soaring, and our mentality has changed. Capello has introduced the strong Italian mentality, as in the type of team that knows exactly what they have to do when they step out onto the pitch.
Ronaldo Ronie and I talk and he's definitely OK with the situation. He knows that when he's back to his old self, he will play again. Meanwhile, the coach thinks that Van Nistelrooy and Cassano are in better form. So, he knows he has to wait his turn.
Raul Raul can still do better. He's been playing well but he's definitely capable of contributing even further to the team.
Robinho This is the Robinho we all knew from back when he played for Santos. It's the player we want to see: playing fantasy football, having fun and transmitting that. Ronaldinho and Robinho seem to be leading parallel lives in that sense: it took them some time to adapt when they first landed Spanish football.
Offensive I don't like being overtly defensive but I have improved greatly in this respect. Having Cannavaro and Sergio Ramos next to me frees me up more. I have always been in pretty good form, but I have to stick to what the trainer tells me. When I have the ball and decide to drive forward with it, I need to know that the one of the centre backs has me covered. That means that now I am thinking of what would happen if I lost the ball.
Current contract I have a year left on my contract with the option of extending it one more year. I don't want to leave in spite of the offers I have received from Fenerbahçe or Chelsea. I want to retire here, whether I am playing or benched.
I though I was out in the summer, but not because I wasn't comfortable but because the team were not winning titles. Maybe I was part of the problem, but then I spoke with Mijatovic and we sorted everything out.
Best left back in the world There's good fullbacks, but Capello said I was the best in my position. I feel honoured.
Motivation You don't wake up every Sunday with a smile on your face. There's days when you're gloomy, but I like training, being with my team-mates. It's a second home.
The Getafe Accord We lost the match against Getafe and the world seemed like it was coming toan end. But not so. Fortunately, we have a game to play every three days and this allows us to turn things around. In the world of football, the defeat against Getafe can be used as a learning tool. You have to get right back up and keep on trying.
Squad veteran I try to make make sure people get along and are happy in the squad. These colours are very important. Raul and I are the team's veterans and we need to set the example.
Real Madrid 3-1 Nastic: Hard-earned victory over Nastic move the Whites into the third spot of the League table
Defeating Gimnastic inTarragona became an uphill battle for Real Madrid from the very moment the home side kicked off to begin Saturday's match. Nastic's constant pressure on both halves of the pitch combined with a penalty to give the home side the lead put the Whites in a dire situation. But Roberto Carlos netted the equaliser, and Helguera's header and Robinho' beautiful strike put Madrid up for good. Following Sunday's results, Real Madrid are now third in the League table.
Earlier today Robinho commented that Leagues are won on fields like that of Tarragona and against teams like Nastic. The Brazilian also stated the importance of tallying points in every road match if Real Madrid are going to make a run at the title. And that's precisely what the Whites did on Saturday night against a complicated rival that made it an uphill battle during most of the first half.
A nuisance but not a threat The match didn't get off to the start Real Madrid had hoped for. In the very first minute, Juan's header off a Cuéllar center sailed wide of Casillas' goal. Two minutes later, it was Cuéllar's corner that Casillas had to punch clear, only to be followd by a hard Pinilla strike. The best scoring chance the home side had came in minute six, when Makukula's shot from the edge of the box was sent over the crossbar.
Madrid weren't able to maintain possession in the midfield, and Nastic proved to be the more physical team throughout the first half by continually getting clear of their markers and easily reaching the perimeter of Iker's box. Raúl and Robinho timidly attacked Rubén Pérez's net but without creating any sense of danger. Nastic grew stronger and created more and more problems around their rival's box as the minutes ticked off the clock. Gil and Abel continued trying their luck on goal, and it wouldn't take long for the Tarragona side to strike.
In the 27th minute, Cannavaro tripped Makukula in the box and referee Mejuto González called for the penalty. Abel took the shot and got to ball by Iker to give the home side the 1-0 lead. Real Madrid picked up the pace and Helguera nearly missed Guti's free kick crosses into Rubén Pérez's box.
When it looked like the Madridistas would head to the dressing rooms down a goal, Mingo fouled Van Nistelrooy on the edge of the box. Roberto Carlos drew the match when his free kick found the back of the net thanks to a little help from Makukula, who moved his leg out of the way just as the ball passed by.
Until the very last minute Hours prior to kick-off, the President asked the team to battle it out until the very last minute. And just four minutes into the second half, Helguera's header off a Guti corner put the Whites ahead at the Nou Estadi. Just as they had done after the Barcelona match, the team made their way to the center of the pitch to celebrate the defender's goal.
But Nastic didn't believe they deserved to lose and began besieging Casillas' goal. Pinilla, Llera and Gil were all thwarted by the Madridista keeper. The home side again took control of the match and risked everything in search of the equaliser. But Capello's men struck again in what was the Italian coach's 50th League match with the Whites. Madrid gathered in defense, allowed the Catalans to control the ball, and waited for the counterattack that would put the game away for good. And the stategy proved successful when Robinho scored the team's third goal. The Brazilian started the play on the left wing and passed the ball to Diarra at the front of the box. The Mali native opened the play to the right, where Sergio Ramos crossed to the far post for the Brazilian to strike across Rubén Pérez's goal and into the net.
After tonight's win and Valencia's loss, Real Madrid could claim sole possession of the second spot in the table depending on the result of tomorrow's Sevilla-Celta match. The victory is a huge morale boost heading into three straight home matches at the Santiago Bernabéu. The first takes place on Wednesday against Steaua Bucharest in Champions League play.
MATCH REPORT:
1- NÁSTIC: Rubén Pérez; Ruz, Cáceres, Llera, Mingo; Abel, Juan (Merino, 53’); Cuellar, Pinilla, Gil (Campano, 68’); Makukula (Ismael, 71’). 3- REAL MADRID:Casillas; Ramos, Helguera, Cannavaro, Roberto Carlos; Raúl, Diarra, Emerson, Guti (Reyes, 72’), Robinho; Van Nistelrooy. GOALS: 1-0, min.29: Abel penalty kick.1-1, min.43: Roberto Carlos direct free kick.1-2, min.49: Helguera header off Guti corner kick.1-3, min.84: Robinho cross shot. REFEREE: Mejuto González. Asturian Refereeing Association. Booked Cannavaro (27’), Ruz (31’), Juan (35’) and Mingo (38’) NOTES: Matchday 8 of the Spanish League played at the Nou Estadi in Tarragona filled to capacity.
Match summary by Laura Navas Photos by : Daniel Sastre;AFP;Marca. Special correspondents to Tarragona Translation by Matthew Goltz
Capello fires warning shot: "Nastic will give it 110%; we have to remain focused"
As always, Fabio Capello held his customary press conference before a match and warned about the dangers of this meeting against Nastic. That said, he also expressed his confidence in the team, asserting, “They have trained very well this week, so I have all the confidence in my players.”
How are Salgado and Beckham? Míchel is back and training with the rest of the squad. David could not train due to some knee and groin niggles.
Is it dangerous to play against a team that are new to the Primera Liga? Well, there's that threat. My team might relax, but they have trained well and I have all the confidence in the world in their attitude.
Is it hard to motivate the players against a rival like Nastic? They will give it 110%. We have to remain focused and play with intensity.
Ramón Calderón thinks that the team will reap an easy win in Tarragona. You can never say that sor of thing in the world of football. It depends of so many things. In my experience, you can never relax and put your arms down.
Do you share the sense of euphoria that now surrounds the team? Our aspiration is winning all contended titles. We are competitive. Then, there are the opponents, which also play... so we'll have to wait and see, but continuing down this path.
Barcelona are going through a crisis after you beat them. This always happens when you are at the top and lose two games. I spoke to Rijkaard after the post-match press conference and told him they are a great team. You can win or lose; that's what football and sports are all about. This is not a war. He played for me; I was his trainer. I am happy with what he's doing in Barcelona. I am happy with other people's successes.
Why did you rest Emerson and not Diarra? Emerson had sustained a blow and Diarra had no problems. That's it, really.
Diarra is playing closer to the defence lately. Yes. Before it was Emerson and now it's Diarra. I don't really like this sort of discussion.
Emerson said in an interview that if Juve had not been relegated, he would still be there. Where did he say that? I think it's better to wait. When I was in Italy many people came up to me saying, "In Spain they say..."
Is Beckham worried? I liked his performance the other day a lot. I told him to come out with twenty minutes to go in the game but he didn't want to. He trains very hard and I like that. Now he's limping and he can't feature against Nastic. He can play as right winger but there are also other players in that position.
Will there be rotations against Nastic? We will play with the best team, which is not to say that different people will have differing opinions in this respect.
Will the team be as hyped-up as against Barcelona? We always have to play with the utmost ambition and exertiung ourselves to the fullest of our capacity. We have to be ready because they will play full on. It's the first time we play against them in La Liga. They're a fast team.
Are you aware that Beckham is thinking of leaving? That's his and the Club's problem.
Report by Luis Navarro Photos by David R. Anchuelo Translation by Luis Orueta
Beckham left off fixture list: The Englishman will not travel to Tarragona; Ronaldo returns from suspension
A total of 19 players have made the teamsheet for Saturday's match against Nastic in Tarragona. While Beckham will stay in Madrid with a groin strain and a niggled left knee, Ronaldo rejoins his teammates after being suspended for the Barcelona match.
David Beckham is the biggest name left off the list of players who will travel to Tarragona for Satuday's match against Nastic. The English midfielder suffered a strained sartorius muscle of the left thigh during Wednesday's King's Cup match against Écija, preventing him from training with the team during the two sessions prior to tomorrow's game. His specific recovery gym work has forced him to be left off coach Fabio Capello's squad list. He also has a niggled left knee.
Míchel Salgado has also been left off the squad list. The right-back trained at full pace alongside his teammates on Friday, but it is still too soon to include him in the lineup as he has yet to reach optimum form.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo will be available after completing out his one-game suspension against Barça. The Brazilian was in the starting eleven against Ecija and will fall under Capello's orders in Tarragona. Also traveling are Helguera and Ramos, who have made full recoveries from their physical problems earlier in the week.
TEAMSHEET: # Keepers: Casillas, D. López & Casilla. # Defenders: S. Ramos, Cannavaro, Pavón, Mejía, Roberto Carlos, R. Bravo & Helguera. # Midfielders: Emerson, Diarra, Guti, Reyes & Robinho. # Forwards: Raul, Cassano, Van Nistelrooy & Ronaldo. # Not called up: Cicinho, Salgado and Beckham.
MEDICAL REPORT:
# Michel Salgado: Pulled aponeurotic layers of the internal soleus muscle of the left calf. Medical and physiotherapeutic treatment. Gym work. # Cicinho: Torn anterior cruciate ligament of the right knee. Surgery (26/09/06).
Report by Luis Navarro Photos by Realmadrid.com Translation by Matthew Goltz
Raúl, twelve years in Primera: Sunday will be the Real Madrid captain's 12th anniversary in Spain's First Division
Best of Raul Video
Sunday marks Raúl González Blanco's 12th year since the Real Madrid captain debuted in Spain's First Division. Number '7' will try to celebrate his milestone one day prior when the Whites take on recenty promoted Nastic in Tarragona.
A distant memory is 29 October 1994 when then Real Madrid coach Jorge Valdano gave a young 17-year-old his Primera Liga debut at La Romareda Stadium. He took giant strides in a matter of months, making the leap from the junior team straight to the First Team. If you consider Real Madrid lost the match 3-2, and that the debutant missed three great scoring opportunities, you might think the doors to success would have been slammed shut on Raúl González Blanco.
In fact, things turned out to be quite the contrary. Despite the final result and the missed chances, the player's attitude during the match was a loud knock and the start of a brilliant career that has carrried him to the pinnacle of Spanish football by the age of 29.
Raúl's professional career skyrocketed, maintaing a constant ascending course of professionalism and winning attitude despìte the rough patch he went through last season when he was injured. His more the 500 official matches with the white shirt have transformed him into a Madridismo idol and a respected professional footballer around the globe.
Twelve years have passed since Raúl debuted with the First Team and when he set out to be "The best player in the world." It wasn't a self proclamation, but the commitment of a young talent that promised to do everything in his willpower to accomplish his dream. These are his numbers:
TRAJECTORY League numbers: 418 matches 182 goals Champions League numbers: 106 matches 54 goals National team numbers: 106 matches 44 goals
HONOURS 4 Spanish Leagues 3 European Cups 2 Intercontinental Cups 2 Spanish Super Cups 2 Pichichi Trophies (1998/99 and 2000/01). 2001 European Footballer of the Year, Silver award FIFA World Player of the Year, Bronze award (2001) 2 Bronze Boots. 1999 IFFHS World Goalgetter 2 x UEFA Champions League Top Scorer Top active scorer in La Liga
Robinho, as happy as ever: "I can be the best in the world"
Robinho's smile has only gotten bigger since he earned a spot in the starting eleven for Real Madrid's Champions League match against Steaua Bucharest, and his stong performances and goal scoring capacity have only doubled coach Fabio Capello's faith in the Brazilian. In an interview with Spanish daily El País, Robinho didn't hesitate in saying "I can be the best in the world."
People in Brazil adore you. They consider you a football genius. However, you didn't really speak up when Capello benched you. Didn't you feel mistreated? I don't have a worry in the world because I know my football and what I am capable of. I'm just a 22-year-old kid with a lot to learn. I have to be humble. I know I can be the best in the world if I work hard and continue improving, and that's exactly what I', going to do.
Emerson Leao once said you get more out of dribbling your opponent than scoring goals. That was the case when I first started playing. I have matured since then. Leao was my coach when I was 17. I now know that scoring is more important, although my dribbling skills are more effective than my shot on goal. I have to improve my finishing ability.
But you still get a kick out of feinting players, don't you? I love dribbling and that's what I know how to do, but a goal is a goal, and that's what people really care about.
Last year only Ronaldo scored more goals off plays than you did. He had 14 and you had eight, not including penalties. I'm not a penalty kick kind of guy. I took them when I played for Santos, but because they asked me to. I think I will score more this year, but it depends on my progress. My first year here was tough. I think I will only improve.
Last year some of your teammates complained that you dribbled too much. My teammates never said a word to me. I have complete faith in them. They have only told me that I need to dribble with my eye on the goal. The coaching staff haven't told me anything either. Capello has only said that I need to continue doing what I have always done, the same as in Brazil but with more responsibility.
What's the difference between responsibility in Brazil and responsibility in Spain? Marking is different here and you have to defend more aggressively. If you lose a ball, you have to return to defend your position. I don't have to change anything when I have the ball. I have to do what I know how to do: dribble and exploit my speed. That's my style and I shouldn't ever change it. It's what brought me to the elite of the football world. It's how I got to Real Madrid, and I want to continue down this path.
Capello says he likes Raúl because he plays even without the ball. What does that mean to you? Marking well and battling. [Capello] likes players to put up a fight, not just to play. Football isn't just won by quality nowadays. That's why Capello has told me I need to return to my position to try to get the ball back by whatever means necessary.
Isn't it unfair that the forwards are being asked to do the defence's work, and not vice versa? If the team is well positioned and you lose the football, there will always be a teammate who can recover it. Anyone in top form will want to come down to defend. Being a forward is harder than playing in defence because you have to be on my sides of the pitch. But that's why we train for that.
Have you been asked to build some muscle? When I started playing for Santos I was always told I was good, but that I need to get stronger because I took so many knocks. I never did any specific workouts because we played two games each week and there wasn't enough time. I see myself stronger now that I'm playing in Europe, and I don't hit the turf as often when I am hit.
Do you work out with weights? Not often. I'm not allowed to because they think I might lose speed, agility, and dribbling ability. I would definitely get stronger and tougher if I did, but I wouldn't be as fast.
Capello style is very different than yours. You weren't bothered when you found out he would be your coach? Never, because Emerson told me Capello is a great coach, that we'd win titles with him, and that he is a good person. I have always had good relationships with my coaches. I have never had anything against any of them.
Barcelona's football appears more in sync with Brazilian football. Don't you think you would feel more comfortable playing for a more attack-happy team? It's not a question about attacking, but about playing well. [Barcelona] are a tight knit group and have been playing together for a long time, and it doesn't matter who plays because they share a similar style. That gives them confidence. If Real Madrid continue becoming closer as a team, I think we'll be equal to, or better than Barça.
What European defence did you have the easiest time getting through? There's not man-to-man marking in Europe, and I haven't suffered as much as I did in Brazil. There was a defence that always kept me from touching the ball, but I don't remember who it was. In Europe, you don't have to worry about the defenders, but where they are positioned. I like to be in constant motion on either the left, right, or in the middle in order to avoid them. The more I move, the more difficulty defences have.
You have a special understanding with Ronaldo. How did you achieve it? Ronaldo is very bright. We played futsal, and I knew the moves he was going to make before he even executed them. He always runs at an angle to get to the goal. Our teammates always have to pay attention when they have the ball because Ronie will always work his way in looking for tha pass.
Capello has said that he would like his players to get together more often off the pitch. Isn't it strange that the squad rarely hangs out together when not at work? We're starting to. We all went to Míchel's birthday the other day. The problem is that some of us are married and some aren't. That's why some go out and some don't.
Did you have a harder time adapting to the style of play or your teammates? My teammates have always treated me well. The cold, the wet field, and the speed of the ball gave me some problems. The ball gets to you quickly in Europe so you have to control it by positioning yourself differently. Brazil's fields are always dry and in terrible shape. The ball moves slowly and controlling is easier, giving defences time to get into position.
Romario once said that if you played 60% as well as he did, you would be great. I know! But I don't want to be like Romario, and I never will be. I just want to have fun and triumph with Madrid. Many people have compared me to Romario and Pelé. I am Robinho! I don't want to be compared to anybody.
What's your relationship with Raúl like? It gets better with every match. We really didn't ever play together so we didn't know eachother so well. We crossed paths a few times last year, but he would either play as a forward or striker, making it complicated. If we're played in one position and left there, we'll continue getting better. I think he's in great physical form. He ran nonstop against Barça.
Ecija 1-1 Real Madrid: David draw against Goliath in the debut of the 2006/07 King's Cup
Inclement weather that only worsened as the minutes ticked by made tonight's King's Cup clash more of a scrub match than a quality football game. Real Madrid were unable to impose last week's brilliant play against an extremely motivated Encija side that looked like a team from Spain's First Division. The home side didn't hold anything back and constantly sought the game winner, and Diego López proved how valuable he is between the woodwork. Meanwhile, the Whites worked off counterattacks and flashy plays by their footballers. The Madridistas took a 1-0 lead, but Ecija scored the well-deserved equaliser.
The Copa del Rey kicked off on Wednesday, and Real Madrid paid a visit to the Andalusian city of Ecija, where the local fans filled the stands to watch their David take on Spain's Goliath despite the torrential downpour. The field was in terrible shape and only worsened with the constant rain. Playing football was a challenge for both teams, and the game became more of a scrub match than an eye-catching, quality football. And that's exactly how the Second Division 'B' team intended to battle coach Fabio Capello's more experienced squad. While Ecija pressured and hampered the Madridistas ability to move the ball forward, the visitors relied on counterattacking and magical football from the likes of Reyes, Cassano, and Ronaldo. The back line, comprised of four youth teamers -Torres, Pavón, Mejía and Raúl Bravo- had their work cut out for them as they were under a constant barrage of danger created by the better home side, led by Pepe Díaz and Raúl Pichardo. But behind the defence led by Pavón and Mejía, a sure-handed Diego López proved how good a goalkeeper he really is.
Real Madrid continued looking to settle the game that proved to be trickier than expected, but their brilliant touch and control over the last week was nowhere to be found. Reyes and Cassano gave glimpses of various feints and dribbling ability, and a captured public appreciated the spectacle. But Ecija continued to dominate the game. The Whites had their first scoring chance in the 15th minute off David Beckham's play from the wing. But the Madridistas' opportunities were few and far between, with the biggest threat coming off the boots of Ronaldo. The Brazilian had been quiet all night, but after several feints was able to get the ball to Cassano, who was unable to shoot on target. The match was a free-for-all in the closing minutes of the first half. Capa, followed by Solano, could have opened up the scoreboard for the home side, while Diarra's header off a Beckham cross also missed the back of the net.
The game followed the same script throughout most of the second half. Ecija continued to scrap it out and Madrid waited for counters much like the one that culminated in a Beckham long ball to Cassano, but Ronaldo lost his balance just before coming face to face with goalkeeper Ariza.
The Whites got what they had waited for in the 66th minute. Beckham centered and Diarra's header found the post. But the football landed in front of Cassano and an open goal, and the Italian tapped it in for the 1-0 lead.
But Ecija had shown the true meaning of drive and desire all night long. Without backing down and proving exactly what this David versus Goliath competition is all about, the home team scored the well-deserved equaliser with only 10 minutes to play. Nolito's brilliant strike off a great play by Requena and Torres along the wing got passed Diego López on the near post, and San Pablo gave a standing ovation to their home side heroes.
MATCH SUMMARY
Ecija: Ariza; Torres, Arguello, Mario, Llano; Solano, Capa, Requena, Pichardo; Jorge García and Pepe Díaz. Real Madrid: Diego López; Torres, Pavón, Mejía, Raúl Bravo; Diarra, Javi García, Beckham, Reyes; Cassano and Ronaldo. Referee: Rodríguez Santiago. Yellow card to Solano (min.39). Goals: 0-1 (min.66): Cassano taps in Diarra's header off the post Notes: First leg of the King's Cup Round of 32 tie played in San Pablo before 9,000 spectators. Real Madrid President Ramón Calderón attended the match.
Match report by Cristina Monge Photos by David R. Anchuelo Special correspondents to Ecija, Seville Translation by Matthew Goltz
Real Madrid-Écija teamsheet: Fabio Capello relying on youth teamers for King's Cup debut
Javi García, De la Red, Adán, Torres, Borja Valero, Negredo and Mateos. Seven Real Madrid youth team players who will be defending the Real Madrid shirt in the first King's Cup match of the season. Casillas, Roberto Carlos, Sergio Ramos, Cannavaro, Raúl, Emerson, Guti and Van Nistelrooy have stayed in the Spanish capital to rest.
The King's Cup is finally here, and once again coach Fabio Capello has rotated the lineup for the first match of the knockout competition. The Madridista team that will debut tonight against Second Division B's Écija in the Round of 32 will more than likely have several variations to the squad that convincingly defeated Barcelona 2-0 on Sunday. The Italian boss has decided to rest Sunday's starters, so Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Cannavaro, Roberto Carlos, Raúl, Emerson, Guti nor Van Nistelrooy will travel to Andalusia. Capello prefers to reserve them for Saturday's clash against Nástic in Tarragona and the crucial Champions League match against Steaua Bucharest on 1 November.
CAPELLO RELYING ON YOUTH
The First Team squad that has traveled to Écija is chalk full of youth team players. Torres, Borja Valero, Negredo and Mateos have joined the familiar faces of Javi García and Rubén de la Red, and more than one is all but guaranteed to see playing time in the town of San Pablo. First Team fixtures who made the trip include Diarra, Ronaldo, Robinho, Diego López, Raúl Bravo, Cassano, Reyes, Pavón, Beckham and Mejía.
REAL MADRID-ÉCIJA TEAMSHEET: # 6-. Diarra # 9-. Ronaldo # 10-. Robinho # 13-. Diego López # 15-. Raúl Bravo # 18-. Cassano # 19-. Reyes # 22-. Pavón # 23-. Beckham # 24-. Mejía # 26-. Javi García # 27-. Rubén de la Red # 28-. Adán # 38-. M Torres # 39-. B. Valero # 42-. Negredo # 43-. Mateos
"The key of our victory against Barça was playing solid football and working hard"
The goalkeeper of Real Madrid and of the Spanish national team was invited to Spanish TV sports talk show Maracaná '06. Iker Casillas is currently the Spanish League stopper that has conceded the least number of goals, with only three over seven games. He was upbeat and evidenced the good spell of form and state of mind that the team is currently undergoing.
Which team will win the League? I think Real Madrid will win the League. Barcelona has everyone accustomed to an exceptional playing standard and now everyone hurries to speak of a crisis after they lost only two matches. When we face them, they command respect.
What was the key of the final victory? We were really keen and gave our all out there. We had suffered a lot over tha last few years; they had crushed us in general and it was time to get even knowing they were current League and Champions League champions. We had to live through the criticism and painful moments, so we were really dying to talk and concentrate on our football, and our hard work and results.
During the first half, Barça were performing better than you for a long while. They play and ellaborate football at all times, but they didn't have exceptionally clear chances. They were dangerous in the last third and Gudjonshen is a great player. For me, Eto’o's absence was beneficial because he's scored a few goals against me lately.
The meeting and talk with Capello changed the course of things? It has nothing to do with the meeting. It had more to do with the appalling image we gave against Getafe, both vis-a-vis us and the Club. You can't go there and not even shoot once on goal. The week that lay ahead at that moment was crucial for us: we had to have unity, be a team. We always get together before the matches, although this meeting was special because of the upset in Getafe and our image there. We all spoke to try to get past this absurd situation.
How do you feel at the moment in the national team? I want to win something already. It's many hopes that have gone down the gutter. We're never lucky in the moment of truth, whatever the reason. I have already played in two Euro Championships and two World Cups and I think it's about time we did something that would make people and ourselves proud.
Report by Álvaro Velasco Translation by Luis Orueta
Real Madrid winger Robinho was pleased with his performance in the 2-0 win over Barcelona on Sunday night.
The Brazilian was highly influential at the Bernabeu, and set up Ruud van Nistelrooy for the second goal after the break.
"I hope to continue playing as a starter and to continue enjoying myself, but always the objective here is to be champions of the Liga at the end of season," he said.
"The team played very well because this is a game that is very difficult to win. I am trying to take advantage of the opportunities. I believe that I am responding and I am happy.
"(Coach Fabio) Capello asked me to play like I know and how I've done so until now. I'll continue taking his criticism on board because he is a very good trainer and is in control of everything. Capello motivates us a lot. We have held Ronaldinho well and that has been key. The psychological factor of winning today is very important.
"I am young and perhaps for that reason I need to do more to win a starting position. The important thing is that we have improved. When the team plays well, individually we are all better." By:Goal.com Photo By:Denis Doyle/Getty Images
Capello, very satisfied: "Now we're a spirited team. This is what's most important"
Capello was satisfied and happy, but he maintained his composure because, although he knows that the victory is important, all of this has just started. Today, Real Madrid executed Capello's orders and style, based on defensive order and swift break-aways in attack, to perfection.
“Tactically and emotionally, we have changed a lot. Now, we act and look as a team and that's the most important thing. Moreover, we have spirit and quality. The entire squad has changed much after the Getafe talk; I am sure that was the key. We also had quite a few chances that we didn't put in the back of the net: two goals, but also two balls off the woodwork and a couple other great chances. As always, the most important thing in football is materialising these opportunities. There will always be rotations in the team. You can't play with just 14 players all season long. The three points are very important because we are now closer to Barcelona and they are a psychological boost. I said since the first day I arrived here that we would be very competitive. Then, you play and you can win or lose. Barcelona, Valencia, Sevilla, all these teams can get to the end of this campaign in the same situation as us, with chances of winning the League. I never judge the players of the opposing team (after a question about Ronaldinho's form).”
Report by Luis Navarro Photo By :AP Photo/Paul White Translation by Luis Orueta
2-0: Killer Madrid: The goals of Raul and Van Nistelrooy in the Clasico, white gold
Deserved and vibrant victory of Real Madrid. Capello's men gave a lesson in positioning, dedication, commitment and scpring ability, with the two goals by Raúl and Van Nistelrooy at the beginning of both halves that absolutely subdued Barcelona. Once again, Guti was the master conductor and the pacemaker of the team. Real Madrid stampede back to Champions League positions, 4th in La Liga.
Act 1: The beginning The game began with the atmosphere that makes this Clasico match so special and just twenty minutes after an almost full stadium -people came en masse from 6:30 pm CET to watch the Brazil F1 race on the electronic scoreboards- hailed Fernando Alonso's second consecutive F1 championship. It was time to translate the week's words, tactics and training sessions into action. And so, the game kicked off. Real Madrid seemed to know their lesson well from the initial whistle. The best proof of this is that only 2 minutes into the game, they were already ahead 1-0 following a perfectly executed play. Raul's spell still going strong The team' motivation was obvious from the very first play. Robinho received a pass on the left wing. He gave it to Guti, who changed sides and delivered the ball to Ramos. The Madridista right back lifted his head and set it up for Raul with an exquisite cross that the Captain headed into the angle of Valdés' goal. The Bernabéu exploded into a frenzy of chants, cheers, hails and ovations. It was well worth it. The match was on the right path. The Captain of the Whites scored his second in the League and confirms the good scoring patch he's going through... in his favourite game of all. Madrid moved the ball with good sense, from side to side, with Robinho and Ramos very active on the sidelines and Guti constructing his team's play as only he is capable of. It seemed like the second was just a question of minutes: Robinho dribbled and swerved past Zambrotta, served it, and Raúl kicked the ball against the crossbeam.
Act 2: Messi comes on stage The game was looking like a coat of Whitewash, but Messi made his first appearance and gave his first warning to Roberto Carlos of what was coming up. Ronaldinho was choking on the left, receiving almost no balls and alternatively covered by Ramos and Raúl, so he decided to change sides. Meanwhile, Robinho kept at it like a sledgehammer down his wing, this time with a shot from just outside the box that Valdés stoipped (minute 18.) And Messi did likewise just five minutes after. Halfway through the first half, the scene took an unexpected U-turn. Deco, Iniesta and Xavi took command of the midfield, overpowering their counterparts Emerson, Diarra and Guti and allowing Barcelona to create dangerous chances. Gudjohnsen was an island, hag-ridden and depressed, fighting for the free spaces that neither Helguera nor Cannavaro allowed him. And so, Barcelona's initiative befell on Messi's speed.
The Argentine winger was the only one to bring danger to the vicinity of Casillas' goal, driving past Roberto Carlos and Cannavaro to serve Gudjohnsen the goal, but the Icelander missed the clearest chance of the red-and-blues during the first half (minute 24). And once again, three minutes later, Messi saw himself all alone inside Madrid's box, but he failed to net the ball. It seemed like Real Madrid had lost cohesion as the minutes went by. The midfield-forward line gap was ever-growing and players were even missing easy passes. Only Van Nistelrooy managed to put Valdés to the test 15 minutes away from halftime. In any event, the Whites kept their cool in defence, not allowing the Catalan team to create and penetrate easily in the last third of the picth. Robinho remained very active on his sideline and crossing into the middle, but that was all he wrote. Halftime.
Denoument: Real Madrid finish off Barça The beginnig of the second half was an exact replica of the first: Real Madrid came out with a killer instinct. This time, it was Van Nistelrooy who scored the night's second after a perfect counterattack initiated and directed by Guti. The Merengue playmaker sliced the ball past a few Barcelona defenders in the three-fourths field line and passed it to Robinho, who was approaching from the right. Robinho set it up for Van Nistelrooy, who scored with the tip of his left boot against an oncoming Valdés. Once again, a great goal! Barça sinking to the depths of depression precisely when they were trying to catch some breath and Madrid touching the edge of heaven. Barcelona didn't manage to maintain ball possession as easily as in the first half, and now it was the Whites who controlled the ball and pace with the likes of Guti, Emerson and Diarra. The chances started trickling down, and in a very similar gesture to the one that allowed him to score a beautiful goal in Bucharest, Real Madrid's striker Van Nistelrooy chipped the ball over Valdés but, once again, the woodwork denied his team. The following opportunities came by way of Robinho and Emerson.
The Bernabéu was having fun and victory was near. Van Nistelrooy had the last chance to score following a dangerous run by Messi. Once again, Guti set him up but Valdés deflected the ball. Barcelona were a broken toy and Real Madrid were jumping from joy with these hard- and rightfully-earned three points. Capello repeats the exact same result as ten years back. On that occasion, Real Madrid won the League.
MATCH REPORT:
2 – REAL MADRID: Casillas; Sergio Ramos, Cannavaro, Helguera, Roberto Carlos; Raúl, Diarra, Emerson: Guti (Beckham 82’) nad Van Nistelrooy (Reyes 79’).
0 – BARCELONA: Valdés; Zambrotta, Thuram, Puyol, Sylvinho; Xavi, Deco (Giuly 54’), Iniesta; Messi, Ronaldinho and Gudjonhnsen (Saviola 64’). GOALS: 1-0, min. 2: Raul heads a cross pass by Ramos and into the angle of the goal. 2-0, min. 50: Van Nistelrooy, finishing a perfect counter-attack. REFEREE: Pérez Burrull, Asturian Refereeing Association. Booked Emerson (20’), Zambrotta (53’), Van Nistelrooy (54’), Guti (70’), Ronaldinho (81’) and Beckham (85´). HIGHLIGHTS: Seventh matchday of the Spanish League played at a Santiago Bernabéu stadium filled to capacity.
Match report by Luis Navarro Photos by Ángel Martínez & Daniel Sastre Translation by Luis Orueta
Capello press conference: "You beat Barça by pressurising, maintaining possession of the ball and pushing forward with speed"
After the week has been plagued with player press conferences, it was the turn of the manager. Fabio Capello gave his barely 24 hours before Clasico kick off. He didn't want to speak of favourites, although he does recognise the good form of his team following the Bucharest win, mentioning, “Right now, I have 20 starters.” He also spoke of the absences of Ronaldo and Eto’o, but beyond individualities, he stressed that the key lies in “playing like we did in Bucharest.” The Italian coach warns, “When you buga player like Ronaldinho like right now, you wind him up and he could be capable of playing an extraordinary match. Let's hope that is not the case on Sunday.”
Who's mentally and physically better for the Clasico? We've taken a big step forward and they are still very good. It's even.
You requested Beckham's contract extension, but the Englishman still does not play. I have 20 starters now, whereas three weeks ago people like Helguera or Robinho did not count much… I follow the training sessions closely and I know Beckham trains hard. I have a different idea in mind now, but he works to be in the starting team and he will be. I want him in the team, that is why I asked for his contract extension.
Who's absence is more important, Ronaldo's or Eto’o's? Ronaldo's is always important and so is Eto’o's. They are both great players and their absence will not go unnoticed. They can score just like that, out of nothing.
It seems like Sergio Ramos will be playing as right full back for a while… I like Sergio in that position, like he did in Bucharest and like he does for the Spanish national team. I didn't invent this position for him. He's used to it and he performs well there.
During the meetings after the Getafe match, did the players advise you to make changes? That is a lie, just things people write. These meetings never dealt with either that, technical problems or anyone resigning. It's all a fabrication.
Have you seen the video of the 3-0 defeat last year? I remember the result, but I havenb't seen that match.
But you did see the Chelsea-Barcelona game and you must have taken notes…? Barcelona played as always, Theirs are two completely different systems. Barça likde to have and move the ball around a lot, but Chelsea's response to that is their excellent defending and their swift break-aways in counterattack. Both teams were faightful to their philosophies of play, but Chelsea created more opportunities. I don't think this defeat is that serious for Barcelona.
Does Real Madrid have to look like Chelsea to win? No, Real Madrid and Chelsea are different. My players have other characteristics. Each team is what it is, so you have to work with it and try to win. We have to play like we did against Steaua; that is the key.
Barça are not invincible, right? No, although everyone thought they were. It's normal to lose once in a while, especially if their opponent plays as well as Chelsea did the other day. We also want to prove this by winning on Sunday and my players know exactly how.
How? They have a lot of quality, but so do we. Pressurising, maintaining possession of the ball and pushing forward with speed.
A defeat would entail an eight-point difference. That's a lot of points, but it's still early inthe season. You can never think that it's a life or death affair in the seventh matchday. The season is long, so it would be a setback, but not definitive.
Will seeing Rijkaard again be special? Many years have gone by but I like to meet up with former players of mine, who are doing so well. Players learn something from the trainers they have, and then they enact it if they're ever coaches themselves.
Eto’o's absence has left Barcelona without their true striker. His potential replacements are not thoroughbred 9's, but they're good. It's hard for a team when players like Eto’o fall injured and are not able to feature.
Is the key stopping Ronaldinho? To stop Barça, you have to block the entire team. They know their style of play by heart, so it's not a question of focusing exclusively on Ronaldinho, althougn it is true that he's one of those players that can decide the fate of a match due to his change of pace, acceleration and imagination. He can assist, crooss pass, take a free kick, score, and when people bug him about his form, he winds up and is capable of playing an extraordinary game. Let's hope that's not the case.
Is it getting harder to come up with a starting lineup? I always think up the best starting elevn based on the shape and form of my players. They have all improved much, especially physically. We have to test different approaches and attempt to do our best in every game. The truth is some players were really out of shape before, but now they're fine. That's why I keep on saying I have 20 starters.
Robinho is the clearest proof of this… He played really well against Steaua Bucharest. He fought and he has great quality. He's doing great.
Report by Cristina Monge Photos by Daniel Sastre Translation by Luis Orueta
Call-up against Barcelona: Reyes returns,Ronaldo finally out
Fabio Capello announced his eighteen-man list for the great Clasico on Sunday. Reyes returns after recovering from his groin strain, a small rupture of his right adductor muscle. Meanwhile, the Disciplinary Committe has conformed Ronaldo's two yellow cards against Getafe and is therefore suspended.
After the Champions League victory against Steaua Bucharest, Capello has called up eighteen men for the Sunday Clasico, set to begin at 9 pm CET. The list is as expected, without the presence of any youth players and the known absences of injured players Míchel Salgado and Cicinho, and of striker Ronaldo, who is suspended. The Whites are revved up and ready to give their all in their clash against Barça.
José Antonio Reyes returned to group dicipline on Thursday, precisely the same day that David Beckham -left knee rotulian tendon tendinitis- and José María Gutiérrez, 'Guti' -bruised left ankle- first featured in the injury list and began working on their own in the gym.
Still, the injury sympotms and pain have been subsiding throughout the last two days. Nevertheless, the English winger and the Spanish playmaker will join Reyes in the call-up. Everything indicates that the three Real Madrid footballers will be in perfect shape and ready to feature in the clash against Barcelona.
PRE-MATCH PREP: Sarturday 21, 8:30 pm CET, Santiago Bernabéu stadium. NEXT TRAINING SESSION: Monday, 23 October, 11 am CET, Real Madrid City @ Valdebebas.
REAL MADRID-BARCELONA CALL-UP:
# Goalkeepers: Casillas & Diego López. # Defenders: Sergio Ramos, Cannavaro, Pavón, Mejía, Roberto Carlos, Raúl Bravo and Helguera. # Midfielders: Beckham, Emerson, Diarra, Guti, Reyes and Robinho. # Forwards: Raúl, Cassano and Van Nistelrooy. # Not called up: Salgado and Cicinho, injured, and Ronaldo, suspended.
Report by Cristina Monge Photos by Daniel Sastre Translation by Luis Orueta
PITTA: "MARCELO MUST BE TODAY A REALMADRID PLAYER"
They only lack some flecos, that must be closed today, so that the lateral Brazilian left-handed person Marcelo becomes soccer player of Real Madrid. If there are no injuries, the successor of Robert Carlos will play in the Bernabéu. Technical secretary Baldini returns tomorrow from Brazil with the Job done , that is to say, with the draftee of Marcelo under the arm. The young left-handed carrilero of Fluminense (18 years), which the Brazilians continue comparing with the best Robert Carlos, will be property of Real today same Madrid, after the flecos are filed that are to close an operation that will cost to the White House about six million and means to him of euros. Thus it confirmed AS Reinaldo Pitta, agent FIFA who has exerted of intermediary between the clubs: "I gave to the proposal from Real Madrid to Tote Menezes (vice-president Him of the Flu) and everything was correct. Although in soccer it can happen of everything, to me seems impossible to me that the crossing is not closed tomorrow (for today). It lacks a last meeting in which all the details will remember ". To last hour of afternoon of yesterday, Pitta waited for an affirmative call of Baldini. The meeting, anticipated this morning, must be used for the company/signature of the contract. January or July. After the march of Baptist, Real Madrid maintains frees a seat of extracommunitarian, which would allow him to incorporate to Marcelo nothing else finishes the Brasilerao, championship that is disputing the Fluminense at the moment. That will happen when the December market is opened, although Capello seems contented with the present group. And everything, in spite of the serious injury of Cicinho for weeks, that will maintain almost to the lateral matador outside game lands until the end of this campaign. If unexpected one does not arise any other, Marcelo would disembark in Madrid the next season. Learning from the International Real Madrid it has not only taken advantage of this trip to Brazil to file to Marcelo and to see more soccer players, but to also incorporate knowledge on other aspects, like the quarry organization. The one of that better they work is the one of the champion of the Libertadores, International of Porto Alegre, that in the last months it has collected about 20 million euros by crossings like those of the forward Rafael Sobis to the Betis. According to the president of the club gaucho, Fernando Carvalho, "Madrid was interested in the prescription of success of our soccer camp, that is making the things affluent. And it is not the first great club of Europe that consults us ". From Diario As: as.com Translation By: realmadrid-news.blogspot.com
Real Madrid regained their confidence while FC Barcelona suffered in midweek, but will either result really have any bearing when these two teams meet in the monumental meeting on Sunday?
All eyes in Spain this weekend are firmly fixed on what Gheorghe Hagi has described as "the biggest match in the world": The Clasico.
In this fixture last year, Ronaldinho was applauded off the field by the Bernabeu crowd, scoring two spectacular goals and delivering a performance to savour.
It was the first time since a young Diego Maradona ran rings around the Real Madrid back line in 1983 that the Madrid crowd had given a standing ovation to any Barcelona player, such is the deep-running rivalry between the two clubs.
This year, the smiling Brazilian's form has been strangely inconsistent. Just when it looked like he was back to his best, starring in Barcelona's 3-1 home victory over a high-quality Sevilla side, he vanished again in the azulgrana's 1-0 defeat to Chelsea in the Champions League in midweek.
But the 25-year-old on Friday insisted he was still the same player that had led his side to domestic and European glory last season.
"I haven't changed one bit," he said. "People are looking for something, but all this talk doesn't annoy me, because I'll continue being the same person.
"Against Sevilla I scored two goals, and people said I played very well. Then three days later, we lost in London and everybody said I was in poor form. We [Barcelona] have to show how good we are in every game, and we have a good opportunity to do that now," he commented.
The injury to Samuel Eto'o has deprived Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard of his first choice striker for five months, and Real Madrid captain Raul has identified this as a "crucial" loss ahead of Sunday's clash.
"He's a great player and it's a shame that he has injured himself. His goals and his movement have been very important," Raul added.
Real were hit on Friday afternoon by the news that striker Ronaldo will miss the game through suspension, after the Spanish FA refused to overturn the red card he received in last weekend's 1-0 defeat to Getafe.
But midfielders David Beckham and Guti should both be available after recovering from knee injuries, along with wingers Robinho and Jose Antonio Reyes. The latter two will compete for a space on the left wing, while Ruud van Nistelrooy will lead the attack.
Barcelona captain Carles Puyol should recover from muscle pains in time to take his place alongside Rafael Marquez in the centre of defence, while Frank Rijkaard must decide whether to recall midfielder Andres Iniesta after leaving him out in favour of Xavi in midweek. By:Eurosports.com
Barcelona and Real Madrid have both received good news on the injury front ahead of this Sunday's 'El Clasico'.
Guti had picked up an ankle injury following a strong challenge during the 4-1 win over Steaua Bucharest on Tuesday, and had been unable to train since.
Beckham, meanwhile, had been struggling with a knee problem.
However, Fabio Capello is set to have both midfielders available for the Barcelona clash, after they trained normally on Friday afternoon.
Don Fabio will now have a problem of plenty, as he must choose two from among Guti, Robinho, Reyes and Beckham. Robinho and Guti are likely to be the chosen ones, after they combined well against Steaua.
Barcelona have also received good news, with skipper Puyol being cleared by the club doctors. However, there will still be changes in the Barcelona defense, with Lilian Thuram set to make his 'El Clasico' debut on Sunday.
It is being suggested that Marquez, Puyol and Thuram could all start against Real Madrid, with Edmilson dropping to the bench. By : Goal.com
Cannavaro press conference: "I have always thought it's the game every footballer wants to play"
Countdown to the Clasico kick-off. The new signings of Real Madrid will feel something special. They know just how important this match is and Cannavaro summarised this feeling, stating, “I want to play already. I want it to be Sunday.” The centre back thinks his team is ready and hyped up, although he doesn't want any over-confidence after the defeat of Barcelona in the Champions League. “We are ready, calm, mentally prepared and willing to give our all,” says the Italian defender.
Has Barça's defeat in the Champions League changed the outlook for Sunday's match? I don't think so. They are two different competitions. Real Madrid and Barcelona are the two strongest sides and I am sure it will be a very special match. Prior results really don't matter.
Did you watch the Clasicos in Italy? I loved these games. I've always thought that this is the game every footballer wants to play, like a Juve-Inter… But even back then I rallied for Real! I want it to be Sunday already because I amdying to play.
Is Eto’o's absence important? Barça have many top quality players. So, Eto’o will not be playing, but Messi, Ronaldinho and other will be there… It won't be easy defending this cast of players.
What have they told you about last year's game? The fans even gave Ronaldinho a standing ovation. This year, everything is different... so we're thinking that the score will be quite different. Ronaldinho is one of the best players in the world so it's normal if people applaud him. We have changed our mentality. We're looking for the right balance, to be calm and play well.
You have lived through everything in ten days: defeats, victories, criticism, euphoris… I think it's normal. That's the way football is throughout the whole world. Bad results entail a number of problems; the team is conscious of what's being said but we're only thinking of working hard. We understand that criticism after a match like Getafe's is very understandable.
Has your attitude changed so much in three days? It is true that our incentives were different for the Getefe and Steaua Bucharest matches. Same as for Barça, where we are all very tuned in. What's important is to be regular in all competitions. You can't be having ups and downs if you aspire to win titles.
Have you spoken to Thuram? Yes, during the pre-match preparation with Italy… but tomorrow I will give him a direct call (laughs).
Yesterday, the President said that you were the best in the world. We have to prove that. We have a good team, but facts on the field of play are everything, not words. We'll see at the end of the season.
On Tuesday, Real Madrid controlled and moved the ball around more. Yes, we did. We want this every game, but they are all different. It is true that we played well on Tuesday, but we need to keep improving and do a prefect match on Sunday. We allwant to play like that every game, but there's a lot of new players, a new coach, a different mentality, so we're overcoming these difficulties.
On Wednesday, Barcelona's weaker points were apparent… I just think that Chelsea were stronger. We have to play with our hearts and minds fully in it.
How did it go with Helguera? Iván is a great defender. I've always liked him. When I got here, he had a few problems, but now the coach has decided to line him up: he's ready and he did a good job. He's a great athlete and has a lot of balls. He has many qualities going for him. He stays calm and he thinks things through quite a lot.
How can one defend Ronaldinho? When Ronadihno starts charging or begins a sprint, uuuffff!. You have to start praying. He's just great and always dangerous. You can count on him fabricating something marvelous. But we also have our fair share of that because Robinho, Cassano, Raúl and Van Nistelrooy are all great.
Has your performance diminished since the World Cup? If one watches my games during the World Cup, it's simple to see that I was just perfect. It's different now. It's a new experience, but my performance is fine. I played better or worse, but that's normal. I know I have to keep on working hard. But I haven't noticed many changes from the Italian Serie A.
Are you Sunday's favourites? We play at home… but I think it's a 50-50 affair right now.
If you lose, the point difference would be preoccupying… Eight points would be harsh. On Sunday all we need to focus on is winning; forget the point difference.
Are you thinking of the Golden Ball? Not really. I know I did really well during the World Cup and all throughout last season, but it's hard for a defender or a keeper to win this trophy. I hope they give it to an Italian player because of the World Cup.
There are no easy games in this League, right? We know how tough and strong all teams are. The level of the Spanish League is extremely high. All teams have quality. The problem is there are many teams.
Report by Cristina Monge Photos by David R. Anchuelo Translation by Luis Orueta
