Real Madrid C.F.

Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo Says Insults Go In One Ear And Out The Other

2010-01-06T11:46:00.000+01:00

After reportedly being subjected to persistent and unrelenting harassment by the Osasuna fans in last weekend's match at the Reyno de Navarra, Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo has played down talk that the verbal abuse is getting under his skin.

Subjected to insults such as "Cristiano, die!" in his first visit to Pamplona, Ronaldo has faced hostile, even intimidating atmospheres away from the Bernabeu.

CR9 experienced similar insults in the match against Barcelona at the Camp Nou, along with a laser pointed directly into his eyes, and missed a golden opportunity to score with just Victor Valdes at his mercy. Similarly, on Sunday, Ronaldo was unable to silence the crowd, exhibiting a number of poor touches and blasting a free kick dreadfully wayward into the stands.

However, the Portuguese phenom has been quick to dispel the notion that the insults are affecting his performance, saying they "go in one ear and out the other", as reported by Spanish sports daily Marca.

The winger also spoke of the huge amount of attention he is garnering as the new face of Real Madrid, commenting: "this has both its positives and its negatives. When we do things well, they applaud us a lot more, but when we do not go out and do what we want, we feel more pressure. Being received with whistles and insults is nothing new for me. After the 2006 World Cup (in which he slotted home a penalty to dump England out of the World Cup) this happened to me in every stadium in England and I ended up being chosen as the best player in the league. It doesn't affect me."

In an interview with the magazine So Foot before signing for Real Madrid, the Portuguese also spoke of this theme. "It does not really matter to me if they insult me...in fact I like it. I love seeing hate in their eyes and seeing the insults. It's not really important. The truth is that many people hate me, but there are many more who like me. I only feel poorly when I play poorly."

Bayern Munich Look To Spark Bidding War Between Inter, Chelsea & Barcelona For Franck Ribery

2010-01-06T11:45:00.001+01:00

Bayern Munich are reportedly looking to ignite a bidding war between Barcelona, Chelsea and Inter in a bid to maximise the transfer fee of French midfielder Franck Ribery.

Despite the interest of these three clubs, AS reports that Real Madrid maintain the upper hand in attempts to sign Ribery with a tentative agreement believed to be in place between Real president Florentino Perez and the player's agent Alain Migliaccio since the summer.

It is understood that Chelsea are willing to part with up to €50 million in a bid to take the 26-year-old to London but must act fast to secure his services as they could still face a two year ban on transfer activity next month as a result of the Gael Kakuta affair.

Ribery is believed to have already rejected the overtures of Inter and Barcelona and has his sights firmly set on a transfer to Madrid during the summer but Los Blancos are determined to pay the Bavarian giants no more than €25-30 million to take the Frenchman to the Bernabeu.

Real Madrid Interested In Lazio Defender Aleksandar Kolarov

2010-01-06T11:44:00.001+01:00

Despite Lazio president Claudio Lotito declaring that his prize assets were not for sale, Real Madrid could be getting ready to make a swoop for defender Aleksandar Kolarov.

Los Blancos are in need of a left-back, according to AS, and the Serbian would fit the requirements perfectly. After not being able to tempt Fiorentina's Juan Manuel Vargas to the Bernabeu, the 24-year-old is seen by the nine-time Champions League winners as a suitable replacement.

Madrid president, Florentino Perez, would be willing to meet with Lotito, in order to discuss the possibility of this move and the final price for the player, which is said to be between €18-20 million.

Lazio take on Livorno midweek, when the league resumes.

Manchester United Keen To Lure Karim Benzema Away From Real Madrid

2010-01-06T11:43:00.002+01:00

As reported by Barcelona-based sports daily Sport, Manchester United has decided to wait until the end of the current season before mounting an assault for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema.

The Red Devils are said to be extremely interested in the former Olympique de Lyon talisman and the intention is to put a little more than €22 million on the table to try to convince Los Blancos to sell.

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson already made a push for the French striker last summer, before being out-muscled by Madrid president Florentino Perez.

The Premier League side believes that in the next few months Benzema will continue to fall short of the lofty expectations placed upon him and that Madrid will be obligated to accept a lower amount than they originally paid for him.

Benzema has had a very well documented period of adjustment to La Liga, relegated to the bench for many of Madrid's matches in the first half of the season.

However, in the last month, as the player has become more comfortable with life in Spain and the Spanish language, he has exhibited an improvement in form, most notably against Valencia (when he started the match in place of the suspended Cristiano Ronaldo) and Zaragoza.

Benzema is currently Madrid's third leading scorer with five goals and reports out of Madrid seem to indicate that the Frenchman will start next weekend's match against Mallorca at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Taiwan Looking To Book Real Madrid Friendly

2010-01-06T11:43:00.001+01:00

Real Madrid are making waves in Taiwan amidst news that the Spanish giants may visit the island for a friendly match following World Cup 2010.

Los Blancos are set to commemorate the one year anniversary of Beijing's Bird's Nest Stadium in a friendly against China later this summer and Taiwanese marketing company Dot Han are hoping to boost their country’s profile by squeezing in a friendly of their own.

Elephant Ching, a senior executive of the Dot Han Company who are attempting to seal an agreement with Real Madrid officials, told a press conference, “The presence of Madrid will help raise the international profile of Taiwan and promote tourism and Flora Expo 2010."

Ching went on to admit that “It is a very rare and precious opportunity for Taiwan to host a star-studded premier football team,” before adding a friendly against the Real Madrid would be “dream come true” for the islanders.

The Taiwanese company is hoping to arrange the fixture at the Municipal Stadium in Taipei on August 4 with rumours already circulating of a China/Taiwan All-Star team tipped to host the Spanish outfit.

Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery Rejects Inter For Real Madrid

2010-01-06T11:42:00.001+01:00

Bayern Munich ace Franck Ribery has rejected advances from Inter, telling them he only wants Real Madrid.

Il Corriere Dello Sport reports the €60 million rated Frenchman was telephoned by Nerazzurri patron Massimo Moratti, who tried to entice him into joining his side.

The report claims Ribery boasted to friends about his conversation with Moratti, in which he allegedly told the Italian: "I want Real Madrid, no other club."

He has been tipped to leave the Bavarian club with Real hovering in the background. Chelsea have also been connected with him, but it appears the Santiago Bernabeu is his next destination.

This comes just days after Bayern denied they were in talks with Real Madrid over a possible transfer. It is said the rejection by Ribery was the catalyst that sparked the Nerazzurri's interest in Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.

A number of voices around the peninsula claim the England international could leave Anfield if the club fails to reach the top four this season.

Osasuna 0-0 Real Madrid: Limp Los Blancos Held By Camacho's Charges

2010-01-06T11:34:00.001+01:00

Real Madrid limped into 2010 as they escaped from Pamplona with just a point against a gutsy Osasuna side. The hosts had the better of the chances in the first half while Gonzalo Higuain squandered Los Blancos best chance in the second 45 minutes.

Playing in difficult conditions, Osasuna had the better of a high-tempo first half. Jose Antonio Camacho's side were a threat from set pieces and used the long throw-ins of Cesar Azpilicueta to good effect in the opening period.

Real struggled to win the midfield battle and relied on the advancing Alvaro Arbeloa to produce something down the left. He was full of tricks, but all too often his team-mates couldn't capitalise on his crosses.

Osasuna came close to breaking the deadlock twice in the first half and both times it was through set-pieces.

First, it was Reversio who nodded an inviting Juanfran free-kick just wide on the half hour mark and ten minutes later Javad Nekounam forced Iker Casillas into a last ditch save, as his header from Francisco Punal's corner bounced in front of the Real Madrid shot stopper.

Cristiano Ronaldo was unable to exert his usual influence on the game as he tried to pick out white shirts who weren't on his wavelength.

The Portuguese wizard went to ground far too easily in the dying stages of the first half as he was closed down by three red shirts on the edge of the box. The former Red Devil was lucky to not pick up a booking for simulation, but Walter Pandiani wasn't so fortunate as he saw yellow for a peculiar incident moments later.

The striker got booked for intercepting a long throw from Casillas which clearly struck his head and the Uruguayan was furious.

Knowing a win would return them to the summit of La Liga, Real were more determined for the second half and went close through Marcelo, who tested Ricardo with a rasper just seconds in.

Their best chances fell to Gonzalo Higuain who was played in by Marcelo on the hour mark and dragged his shot wide of the six yard box when he had time and space to compose himself.

Moments later it was the hosts who nearly opened the scoring in a crazy minute of action.

Javier Camunas played in an excellent crossfield ball which appeared destined for Pandiani, only for Sergio Ramos to stick a leg out and prevent the danger. From his clearance the whites went on the break and it was Higuain again who broke into the box and with only the keeper to beat he put his effort skyward.

The visitors introduced Raul and Karim Benzema as they went in search of a winner. Real's summer signing from Lyon impressed with an angled drive that whizzed past the post moments after coming on.

Osasuna forced a flurry of corners in the closing stages as they more than held their own against their glamorous visitors from the capital.

Coach Camacho continued to roar his side on who were good value for their point as Real could only lament not taking advantage of Barcelona's rare slip up against Villarreal on Saturday.

Player Ratings

OSASUNA

Ricardo: 7 - Anticipated the danger well when Real broke early in the first half and punched away any threats which came his way.

Azpilicueta: 7.5 - His long thrown ins caused Real no end of problems particularly in the first half. Stole the ball from Ronaldo in the first half to set up Aranda and also created a chance for Pandiani with a curling cross which deserved better.

Roversio: 7 - Went close with a header from a corner kick and intercepted several Real attacks when the whites went in search of a winner in the second half.

Miguel Flano: 7.5 - Tested Casillas with a looping header in the second half. Made a vital intervention to deny Sergio Ramos who had space in the danger area late on.

Monreal: 6.5 - Battled with Van der Vaart and did well to continue after the latter barged him to ground early in the match.

Punal: 6 - His corner kicks were hit and miss. Given that his side forced so many he'll be disappointed not to have done better.

Nekounam: 7 - Another who tested Casillas with a downward header. He was always a threat from set-pieces.

Juanfran: 7.5 - Played in some excellent crosses and made himself available for possession given any opportunity.

Camunas: 7.5 - Along with Juanfran they were a vital outlet for the Pamplona outfit as they scooped a valuable point.

Aranda: 7 - Wrestled with Albiol and was a threat with his physical presence. Looked irked to be taken off on the hour mark and rightly so given his contribution.

Pandiani: 6.5 - Picked up a harsh booking for intercepting Casillas' clearance in the first half. Would have been the hero had his toe been able to connect with Camunas' fine cross only for Sergio Ramos to clear the danger.

Substitues

Masoud: 7.5 - A threat as soon as he came on for the last half an hour.

Ruper: - N/A

Calleja: - N/A

REAL MADRID

Casillas: 7 - Did what he needed to do to keep Osasuna at bay throughout. Made a hash of a Flano header in the second half when he would have been better claiming the ball instead of punching it.

Sergio Ramos: 7 - Wasn't on the same wavelength as Ronaldo in the first-half when his team-mate tried to put him through in a promising position in the final third. Made an important clearance to deny Pandiani in a crazy minute of action in the second half.

Garay: 6.5 - Nothing special as he and Albiol tried to get to grips with an imposing Aranda up front.

Albiol: 6.5 - Chanced a shot from range early on and enjoyed a physical battle with Aranda during the latter's hour on the pitch.

Arbeloa: 7.5 - Got forward often in the first half and showed a range of tricks to set up some half chances. Picked up a booking for a reckless challenge on Juanfran.

Lassana Diarra: 6 - Gave the ball away too often in the first half and didn't look his more dependable self on a poor night for Real.

Xabi Alonso: 6.5 - Better than Diarra but not by much. Did well to put his body on the line late on to get the ball away when Osasuna forced several corner kicks.

Cristiano Ronaldo: 6.5 - Not his best night in a Real shirt by far. Had one free kick which went well over and although he looked dangerous when he got on the ball he didn't see it enough. Went to ground too easily in the first half and should have been booked for simulation.

Marcelo: 6.5 - Had a couple of attempts from range and rasped the gloves of Ricardo with a fierce drive early in the second half. Played in a good through ball for Higuain which the striker should have done better from.

Van der Vaart: 7 - Did well before being substituted with an hour gone. Created some half chances for himself and should have stayed on longer than Higuain.

Higuain: 5.5 - Missed two golden opportunities to send Real to the summit of La Liga but left his shooting boots at home. It wasn't a surprise when he was replaced late on.

Substitutes

Benzema: 6.5 - Went close with two shots after being introduced and linked up well with Ronaldo to fire a drive which just rolled shy of the post.

Raul: - N/A

Granero: - N/A

Birmingham City Emerge As Front-Runners To Land Real Madrid Striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy

2010-01-03T19:42:00.001+01:00

English Premier League side Birmingham City are favourites to land Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, according to reports.

The Mail on Sunday comments that the on-form side are interested in the 33-year old, who is also being monitored by Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn, with a loan deal until the end of the season the most likely move for the veteran frontman.

A move to Liverpool had initially been the most likely destination for the former Manchester United and PSV Eindhoven striker, but Goal.com reported earlier today that boss Rafa Benitez had ruled the club out of a move, opening the door for Birmingham to make their move.

Van Nistelrooy is allegedly desperate for a return to the Premier League as he looks to force his way into contention for the Netherlands’ World Cup squad this summer, and realises that he has descended down the pecking order at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The main concern any prospective buyers would be the Dutchmans’ fitness concerns, as he has barely featured for Los Blancos in the past year as a result of a number of injuries that have kept him on the sidelines.

Real Madrid To Offer €63 Million For Milan Ace Alexandre Pato

2010-01-03T19:41:00.001+01:00

Real Madrid are set to kick off another spending spree with a mammoth bid for Brazilian striker Alexandre Pato, according to reports from Italy.

La Repubblica claims that the Milan frontman has emerged as one of Los Blancos' key targets in the winter transfer window, with coach Manuel Pellegrini intent on bolstering his squad for a title showdown with rivals Barcelona.

It is thought that the Rossoneri have indicated a refusal to negotiate with the Spanish giants. But, in a similar circumstance to their pursuit of Kaka, it is thought that a suitable bid would force Milan to consider the offer.

Pato ironically orchestrated Real Madrid’s downfall in the Champions League this season, netting twice at the Santiago Bernabeu as Milan went on to secure a famous 3-2 victory.

He made the switch to the San Siro in 2007 and is contracted until the summer of 2012, but that is unlikely to deter President Florentino Perez from making an audacious swoop.

The 20-year old is generally regarded as Brazil’s best emerging talent, and will be an important member of A Selecao for this year’s World Cup in South Africa.

Gonzalo Higuain Aims To Keep His Feet On The Ground At Real Madrid

2010-01-03T19:40:00.000+01:00

Gonzalo Higuain has been discussing the highlights of his career with Real Madrid, and admitted that although he has achieved success with Los Blancos, he hopes that he has remained level headed.

Despite the influx of new signings in the summer following the return of president Florentino Perez, the exciting Argentine remains one of coach Manuel Pellegrini’s key performers this season, as the club aim to reclaim their title from rivals Barcelona.

Higuain, speaking in an interview with newspaper Ole, stated that he finds it hard to believe that he is playing with one of the biggest clubs in the world, but is concentrating on enjoying his football and performing well.

He said, “I am at a high point in my career, and at my age what has happened to me is crazy.

“This happens to very few people, and luckily for me I have the support of my family, who make sure that I keep my feet on the ground.”

The 22-year old also took time to praise his current coach, Manuel Pellegrini, who hopes that despite not being first choice initially, has proven his worth to the Chilean.

He commented, “Hopefully I have did the things that he wanted, and has ensured that we keep in touch with one of the best Barcelona teams of all time.”

Preview : Osasuna - Real Madrid

2010-01-02T12:31:00.002+01:00

Unspectacular

It wouldn’t have been a happy Christmas for the Osasuna players, who will still have had the words of Jose Antonio Camacho ringing in their ears after a 2-0 surrender away to Athletic Bilbao. Within 11 minutes of the start of that fixture they trailed by a couple of goals, and one can only imagine the carnage that may ensue should the Pamplonans afford Real Madrid a similar start on Sunday.

Consistency of any kind has been hard to find for the northerners, who have won only one of their last eight fixtures. As a result Camacho’s men are loitering in mid-table, boasting a flimsy four point cushion over the relegation zone.

Their greatest worry this term has been scoring goals, yet that has not stopped them allowing former Real youth product Javier Portillo departing for Segunda Division outfit Heracles. Having appeared just a couple of times this season in league action, his loss will not be noticeable.

Walter Pandiani will be the man the home side look to for goals, while a young rearguard will be given a thorough examination by the world’s most expensively assembled group of attacking players.

Osasuna must approach this game with the attitude that even a point would be an unexpected bonus.

Targeting A Great 2010

After watching fierce rivals Barcelona sweep all before them in 2009, Real Madrid have already staunchly indicated that their aim is for a trophy laden 2010. Somewhat unsurprisingly the ever-confident Cristiano Ronaldo has been the man to lead such cries.

“Real Madrid will be the best team of 2010. We need to have the drive and motivation to win everything that comes our way,” he told Marca. “Madrid needs to focus on winning the Champions League and La Liga, but it depends on other factors like luck, the draw. But I think we are going to win.”

And things are starting to come together for los Blancos after a difficult start to the campaign, which saw them crash out of the Copa del Rey at the hands of previously unheard of Alcorcon and lost in the Champions League to Milan.

Despite losing the first Clasico of the season 1-0 to Barca, thereby ceding their advantage in La Liga to the Catalan outfit, Manuel Pellegrini’s side have bounced back in style. European progression was booked by way of a success over Olympique de Marseille, while a hat-trick of victories in domestic play have seen them shut the gap to the leaders to just two points.

Los Blancos’ last couple of matches have been especially impressive, with a fine away win over Valencia hinting at their title credentials, which were only enhanced a week later with a thumping 6-0 win over lowly Real Zaragoza.

With such momentum building, los Merengues will be tough to stop.

FORM GUIDE

Osasuna

LOST 2-0 (a) Athletic Bilbao (La Liga, December 20)

LOST 1-0 (h) Mallorca (La Liga, December 13)

DREW 1-1 (a) Malaga (La Liga, December 6)

WON 1-0 (a) Real Zaragoza (La Liga, November 29)

LOST 3-1 (h) Valencia (La Liga, November 22)

Real Madrid

WON 6-0 (h) Real Zaragoza (La Liga, December 19)

WON 3-2 (a) Valencia (La Liga, December 12)

WON 3-1 (a) Olympique de Marseille (Champions League, December 8)

WON 4-2 (h) Almeria (La Liga, December 5)

LOST 1-0 (a) Barcelona (La Liga, November 29)

TEAM NEWS

Osasuna

There are a handful of injury problems for los Rojillos going into Sunday’s encounter. Cesar Azpilicueta, Nacho Monreal and Carlos Aranda all have problems, though all three are considered to have a good chance of taking part.

Sergio Fernandez and Oier are out. The latter is facing three months on the sidelines.

One man who certainly won’t be featuring in the forthcoming encounter is Josexto, who is banned.

Probable Starting XI: Ricardo; Azpilicueta, Roversio, Miguel Flano, Monreal; Juanfran, Nekounam, Punal, Camunas; Pandiani, Aranda

Real Madrid

Kaka grabbed the headlines on New Year’s Eve when he started training with the ball again, though it is uncertain whether he will be able to feature on Sunday. This is also the case with Rafael van der Vaart, who managed to jog on Thursday but otherwise trained individually.

Guti and Ruud van Nistlerooy continue to build their strength in the gym, while Mahamadou Diarra and Pepe are unavailable due to international duty and serious injury respectively.

Probable Starting XI: Casillas; Arbeloa, Garay, Ramos, Marcelo; Alonso, Lass; Ronaldo, Kaka, Benzema; Higuain

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Osasuna

Javad Nekounam recently proclaimed that he wishes to be regarded one day as Osasuna’s best ever player. The Iranian could go some way further to writing his name in the history books with a match-winning performance in the engineroom of the home side.

Real Madrid

Should he play, all eyes will be on the returning Kaka, who missed the tail-end of 2009 due to a sportsman’s hernia. The creative midfielder has thus far failed to live up to hefty summer price-tag and may just have been given a jolt due to Rafael van der Vaart’s performances while he was convalescing.

PREDICTION

Whipping boys to the extent that Zaragoza were a fortnight ago Osasuna should not be, but that does not mean that they will claim a positive result against a Real Madrid team growing in swagger and cohesion. The home side’s only hope is that los Blancos over indulged over Christmas, but don’t count on it.

Osasuna 0-3 Real Madrid

Juventus Follow Real Madrid Midfielder Guti

2010-01-02T12:29:00.000+01:00

Juventus are tracking Guti of Real Madrid as an alternative option to Lazio midfielder Cristian Ledesma.

According to Il Corriere Dello Sport, the Old Lady has plan B ready in case Lazio reject a €5 million bid for their man. Should that happen, Juve will abandon Ledesma and focus on bringing in the Madrid midfielder.

The report claims Guti would arrive in Turin on a free loan deal until the end of the season. The Spaniard's experience would be a welcomed addition to a Juve midfield which has appeared fallible at times this season.

Meanwhile, with the club's focus in and around Madrid, Atletico are about to rekindle their interest in Tiago. Los Colchoneros were close to signing him in the summer, only for the move stalled. However, they are now ready to have another throw at the dice for him.

Liverpool In For Real Madrid's Dutch Duo Ruud van Nistelrooy & Rafael van der Vaart

2010-01-02T12:28:00.000+01:00

British tabloid The Sun has reported that Liverpool are on the verge of signing Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, who could be followed to Anfield by Dutch teammate Rafael van der Vaart.

The latter has enjoyed a unprecedented run of starts with the Spanish capital club, but knows his fate upon Kaka's inevitable return from injury, whilst former Red Devils hitman van Nistelrooy has dropped down the pecking order at the Bernabeu.

He faces stiff competition from Gonzalo Higuain and Karim Benzema. The former has been in insatiable form so far in the season while Florentino Perez's demands of seeing his Galactico purchase see game time will ensure Benzema remains in the frame irrespective of form.

Van der Vaart and van Nistelrooy have set their sights on on a place in Bert van Marwijk's World Cup squad, and both believe that a departure from Madrid will serve their chances of a ticket to South Africa best.

Cristiano Ronaldo: Real Madrid Will Be The Best Team Of 2010

2010-01-01T16:18:00.001+01:00

Cristiano Ronaldo was in buoyant mood as he looked ahead to the New Year. The most expensive footballer in history outlined his team's objectives in 2010 in an interview with Spanish sports daily Marca and made it clear that they want to displace Madrid's archrivals Barcelona as the best team in the world.

The Portuguese said, "Real Madrid will be the best team of 2010. We need to have the drive and motivation to win everything that comes our way.

"Fans and players dream about winning the Champions League. This year's final is at the Santiago Bernabeu and it's a great opportunity for us.

"Winning the Champions League [with Manchester United] was the greatest experience of my career and we don't want to let this opportunity slip through our fingers."

But the former Sporting Lisbon star warned that the Madrid supporters must not get obsessed with the Champions League and that the team should concentrate on regaining the Primera Division title as well.

"All this club talks about is Champions League, Champions League, Champions League, but we shouldn't because it puts a lot of pressure on the players.
"It is better to continue doing what we are doing, which is winning games. Good things will happen, but the players don't need any added pressure.

"Madrid needs to focus on winning the Champions League and La Liga, but it depends on other factors like luck, the draw. But I think we are going to win."

Real Madrid Playmaker Kaka Returns To Training

2010-01-01T16:17:00.000+01:00

Real Madrid have confirmed that their influential midfielder, Kaka, has returned to training with the ball for the first time since late November.

The 27-year-old was sidelined from all footballing action because of a groin strain but apparently he is now fit enough to train with the ball.

The Spanish club have stated in a statement that Kaka trained with the ball during Thursday's team training session. It reads, "Kaka appears to have recovered from his sports hernia and today got his first feel for the ball in several weeks. He and Cristiano Ronaldo teamed up during the second half of the session to work on various drills."

However, it is not clear whether the former Milan playmaker will feature against Osasuna in the Primera Division on Sunday. Madrid are two points behind leaders Barcelona in the title race.

Real Madrid Rule Out January Transfers

2009-12-31T11:46:00.000+01:00

Real Madrid director general Jorge Valdano and football director Miguel Pardeza will be in Valdebebas today for the team’s final training session of 2009.

According to Spanish paper AS, Valdano’s visit will be to wish all the players and the staff a happy New Year’s day, but most of all to reveal the club’s plans for the January transfer window.

It is suggested that the Argentine will tell the squad that the club board has no intention of making any new signings next month.

Valdano’s reassurances will be particularly aimed towards Raul Albiol, Christoph Metzelder and Ezequiel Garay, the three centre-backs that will be in contention to fill the void left by Portuguese international Pepe who will be out for the remainder of the season after suffering knee ligament damage.

Valdano is also expected to enquire after the recovery schedule of injured trio Kaka, Guti and Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Real Madrid Star Cristiano Ronaldo Aiming To Be The Best Player In History

2009-12-30T20:39:00.002+01:00

Real Madrid talisman Cristiano Ronaldo has set his sights on recapturing the Ballon d'Or in 2010 and declared that he wants to go down as the greatest player in history.

Ronaldo relinquished the crown he won in 2008 to Barcelona star Lionel Messi, who also took over the title of FIFA World Player of the Year in 2009 but the Portuguese winger has his sights firmly set on returning to being recognised as the best footballer on the planet.

"I'm going to win the Ballon d'Or back, this year or next," he declared as quoted by Marca.

"I have an ambition to become the best player in history."

The 24-year-old also declared that his troublesome ankle, which kept him out of action for two months, is in good shape and will not require surgery.

"The ankle is fine and if not the Real Madrid doctors will see it right. I am sure I will not need an operation," he noted.

Arjen Robben Was The First Installment In Franck Ribery's Transfer From Bayern Munich To Real Madrid

2009-12-30T20:39:00.001+01:00

The verbal agreement between Bundesliga heavyweights Bayern Munich and La Liga giants Real Madrid for next summer's transfer of French midfielder Franck Ribery was reported yesterday by Europolitan.de.

But today a report has come out of Ran.de that has outlined more details about the deal, lifting the lid on talks which have apparently been in the pipeline for some time already.

According to the German website, Dutch winger Arjen Robben's transfer to Bayern served as an initial deposit, locking Ribery in for a transfer exclusively to the Santiago Bernabeu. As such, Madrid has already paid half of the estimated €50 million that the French attacker will cost them in total.

The verbal agreement also apparently holds two caveats. The first clause is the aforementioned first refusal for Madrid. The second is that if Ribery decides to stay at Bayern and extend his contract, then Bayern will have to pay Madrid the €25 million they have still not handed over for Robben's transfer along, with a year's interest added to the fee.

Real Madrid's Rafael Van Der Vaart Trains Separately

2009-12-30T20:38:00.001+01:00

Real Madrid's morning training on Wednesday had a surprise in store as Dutch midfielder Rafael Van der Vaart trained alongside the players who are recovering from injuries and training separately from the rest of the squad. He joined in with Kaka, Guti, and Ruud Van Nistelrooy instead of the main bunch, but the extent or diagnosis of the Dutchman's injury remains unknown.

As for the rest of the team, a large number of players rejoined their companions as Iker Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Alvaro Arbeloa, Gonzalo Higuain and Fernando Gago returned from their holidays in time for the afternoon training session. As such, coach Manuel Pellegrini is now counting on his entire squad, save for Mahamadou Diarra, who is training with the Malian national team for the African Cup of Nations, and long-term injury victim Pepe.

The Madrid coach also called a number of youth players up from the ranks to work with the first team. Today, that group was comprised of Szalai, Vazquez, Raul Ruiz, Modrego and Juanan.

Real Madrid's Alvaro Arbeloa: We Have Taken A Step Forward

2009-12-30T20:37:00.001+01:00

Real Madrid defender Alvaro Arbeloa has told Spanish press and the club's fans that they are now ready to kick on after an impressive first half of the season with their new 'Galacticos', reports AS.

"The team needed time, but now after some patience and good work, we are progressively improving," declared the former Liverpool player.

As for his switch of position from right back to Madrid's regular left back, Arbeloa says he "becomes more comfortable with every match on the left. I will continue on the left even in light of Pepe's injury because, fortunately, we have three very good central defenders and Sergio Ramos can also play the position. I hope to keep playing wherever I am needed."

Arbeloa also expressed his belief that the team can win at least one title at the end of the season. "We have taken a step forward, we are improving a lot, we are scoring a lot, we are creating a number of chances, and we have options to win something. It will be difficult, but we have the potential to do it and we have to fight to be there at the end."

Finally, Arbeloa rubbished the notion that there was concern over some Barcelona's players having curtailed their winter vacations to return to training early.

"I do not know if Barca will slow down; what they have done, no one has ever done, but in the year that comes we will make them push even harder.

"We have a difficult month of January, but we do not have the Copa del Rey so we will be able to rest in the middle of the week. We hope that the Copa stretches Barca and we will have to take advantage of any slip-ups."

Juventus Interested In Real Madrid's Gago

2009-12-30T20:36:00.001+01:00

Fernando Gago appears to have no future at Real Madrid, and Juventus could be set to offer him an escape.

According to Il Corriere dello Sport, the Bianconeri are keen to snare Gago during the winter transfer window. The fact that the midfielder has big game experience and is an Argentine international are said to count in his favour.

Ideally, Juve would like to loan Gago, pay half his transfer fee, and include an option for full purchase at the end of the season.

Fiorentina and Everton have also expressed an interest in Gago, although his preference remains to stay at the Bernabeu and win Manuel Pellegrini's favour. However, with the World Cup approaching, he knows that securing regular football is a priority.

Gago's agent had earlier spoken about his situation, saying, "He wants regular playing time ahead of the World Cup."

"When he does not play, he stays at home and cries."

Real Madrid Have Produced 107 Youth Team Players Plying Their Trade In Europe

2009-12-30T20:35:00.000+01:00

Much is made of the exceptional quality of Barcelona's youth team products such as Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez, Carles Puyol, Gerard Pique, Sergi Busquets, Bojan Krkic, Pedro Rodriguez, Jeffren Suarez, etc., but in a report by Madrid sports daily AS, the Real Madrid youth program is also ranked as one of the world's best with 107 former youth players playing in Europe (51 in La Primera, 43 in La Segunda, and 13 in eight other countries on the continent).

Real Madrid have five players who have come up through the ranks in Raul, Iker Casillas, Esteban Granero, Guti, and Alvaro Arbeloa (seven including third goalkeeper Adan and the injured De la Red). Somewhat paradoxically, one can find even more youth players in south Madrid as Getafe have employed a number of youth team players as well as coaches.

In terms of coaches, Los Azulones have had Quique, Schuster, Laudrup, and Michel giving orders while on the pitch one can find Belenguer, Casquero, Adrian, Soldado, Miguel Torres, Dani Parejo, and Jordi Codina in the Getafe ranks.

In La Segunda, Rayo Vallecano is the club with the most players with Blanco pasts as Cobeno, Tena, Aganzo, Quero, Movilla, and Rafa Garcia carry the Madrid name.

Internationally, in the world's principal leagues, the Merengue presence is also noted in such players as Jordi Lopez in the Premier League, Schorch in the Bundesliga, Samuel Eto'o and Esteban Cambiasso in the Serie A, Javi Garcia and Balboa in Portugal, and Gonzalo and Groningen in Holland.

Real Madrid Star Cristiano Ronaldo Wants All-Spanish Champions League Final

2009-12-29T19:15:00.002+01:00

In an interview with sports daily Correio da Manha, Cristiano Ronaldo revealed his great ambition of winning titles with Real Madrid, expressing that his principal desire was to "face Barca in the Champions League final and to beat them".

With respect to the rest of the season, Ronaldo was hopeful that he would be able to avoid the medical ward.

"I hope not to have any more injuries and to be able to help Real Madrid win all the titles for which we are competing this season.

Furthermore, 'CR9' remained sure of Los Blancos' progression over the past few months stating, "I have complete confidence that we are going to improve even more in what is left of the season."

Real Madrid Reach Verbal Agreement With Bayern Munich For Franck Ribery

2009-12-29T19:15:00.001+01:00

Fifty million euros. Such is the figure upon which Bayern Munich and Real Madrid have agreed for the transfer of Franck Ribery next summer.

According to the web-page of Munich Europolitan.de, both clubs have reached a verbal agreement for the transfer.

Although the English press continues to report that Chelsea is closer to securing the French midfielder's signature, the report seems to align with Ribery's rumoured desires, as the Frenchman has previously shown his penchant to play at Real Madrid.

Bayern president Uli Hoeness has previously stated that should Bayern not reach a deal to renew Ribery's contract, they would sell their player since in 2011 the Frenchman would have license to walk away without a transfer fee.

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema: I Am Ready For The Challenges Of 2010

2009-12-29T19:13:00.000+01:00

The Karim Benzema who returned to training yesterday with Real Madrid after enjoying his Christmas holiday is a footballer full of hope and ambition.

As reported by AS, the Frenchman has matured from an introvert into a good humoured, ultra-motivated player and has confessed that he "is ready for the great challenges that await in 2010".

In his first few months in his new Spanish life, Benzema had some difficult moments of solitude, principally because he was unable to express himself in Spanish. But the 22-year-old has no doubt that he will succeed and that the worst has passed. "Now I can communicate with all of my team-mates. I can understand Spanish and I also understand the direction given to me by the coach," said the Frenchman.

Benzema is currently third in Real Madrid's scoring charts with six goals (five in La Liga and one against Milan in the Champions League). Gonzalo Higuain is second with 12 goals in all competitions, whilst Cristiano Ronaldo leads with 13 goals.