Real Madrid will listen to offers for Kaká

Real Madrid's patience with Kaka is about to end and the white club has decided to listen to offers this summer due to his disappointing performance. Madrid see a shadow of the crack which cost 67 million euros and the last evidence was his poor performance in Riazor where the team, without Kaka in the field, improved significantly (he was replaced in 60 '). A Coruña was the second time Mou gave him the starter position in an away match, the other was in Almeria, two games in which Real Madrid lost four points ...

Kaka

Since he reappeared after his injury, January 3, has participated in 11 games playing only 438 minutes of the 1350' possible, 32.4 percent. He has scored two goals and it was unreleased in four major matches: the semifinals of Cup (Sevilla), League (Espanyol) and Champions (Lyon).

However, Kaka seems immune to criticism that raged: "I feel great. In Riazor I played in a different position than I was playing and I've been normal".

Kaka comes slowly to the exit door and England insist that Ancelotti is crazy to sign him. In return, according to the Daily Mirror, Chelsea would offer Drogba to lower the transfer.

Mourinho was angry with Kaka by walking out of the field when he sawhe was replaced. The coach was desperate and a camera caught him screaming at the Brazilian "Come here quickly¡" Kaka not fived Mourinho and went to the bench with his head down.

League (Day 25): Mourinho reactions

MOURINHO: "ONLY ONE TEAM HAS PLAYED TO WIN"

"Deportivo practically didn't touch the ball in the second half and we played against a goalkeeper and ten defenders. All that matters is the outcome, but I cannot criticize my players. One team played to win and the other worked very hard to take one point. The team that was after the point got what it wanted. I think it would have been fair had the match ended 0-1."

Jose Mourinho

"Deportivo can play however they want. I have nothing to say in that respect. I am sure they are pleased with the point. They played their match and worked hard. If they play this way in every match, I am sure they would be competing for a Europa League spot. Hats off to them, but there is no comparison with other matches."

"Seven points is a lot, but mathematics play an important role and we will continue as long as it's possible."

"I don't like to speak about the referee's performance. I don't know if it was a hand ball because I was too far to see it. In Lyon I did see it from a distance. There was no doubt in my mind. I didn't see this penalty as clearly. I spoke to the fourh referee about being more well-mannered with my players because he was speaking to them in a way that isn't normal."

"I will always try to defend the interests of Real Madrid and its fans. The schedule is decided by people who know what they are doing. Playing on Sunday would have been the normal thing to do. The people who drew up the calendar knew what they were doing. People laugh behind my back, but I will continue speaking out against a situation that is clear to everyone. It is something that is impossible to deny, but that's a whole other matter."

Link

League (Day 25): Players reactions

CASILLAS: "WE WERE SIMPLY UNLUCKY"

Iker Casillas

"We were simply unlucky. This is a setback because we weren't able to win. We tried hard and had our chances, especially in the second half. We also hit the post, but the ball didn't want to go int. That's football for you. We controlled the match, but if the ball doesn't go in, there is nothing we can do."

"Two matches later we find ourselves in the same situation. We must continue playing hard. There is no other option. Now me must focus on Malaga and not pay attention to what our rivals are doing. We don't control our own destiny, but we must win all our matches if we are to stand a chance of winning La Liga."

"This team has always fought and it will continue to do so until the end."

RAMOS: "THERE IS NO REASON TO BE UPSET WITH THE TEAM"

"There is no reason to be upset with the team. We went out their to win from the very start. We dominated the match in such a way that we deserved to win, but we were unable to score. We capitalized on the open space we had in the second half and we were more mobile, but we didn't score. It leaves a bad taste in our mouths after such an effort. La Liga is not lost; there are still a lot of matches left."

XABI ALONSO: "WE NEED TO WIN A LOT OF MATCHES"

"It's a shame. We had our chances, but the ball didn't want to go in. They are two valuable points that we are leaving here. We tried it every which way. You cannot lay blame on the team because we fought until the final whistle. Winning La Liga won't be easy, but a lot can change in football and we will not give up. We need to win a lot of matches."

Link

Spanish League: Day 25

DEPORTIVO 0 - REAL MADRID 0

Deportivo goalkeeper Aranzubia made 12 saves and Real Madrid sent two balls off the woodwork in what ended in a 0-0 draw for the Whites at Riazor.

Mesut Özil

Real knew they would be up against a defensive Depor side on Saturday. With that in mind, Benzema and Kaka were given the nod for kick-off. The Whites tried from the very get go, but were unable to elaborate plays with such suffocating defensive pressure. Although they had their chances throughout the first half, the first real opportunity came on 30’ when Ozil fire just wide of goal. Deportivo meanwhile didn’t try their luck once against Casillas.

With the second half under way, it was Aranzubia who stole the show. The keeper made one save after the next and came up huge against Cristiano Ronaldo and Di Maria, both of whom believed their shots had found the back of the net. Even when Aranzubia appeared to be bested by the Whites, it was the woodwork that denied them of glory. Adebayor’s shot on 78’ hit the near post and then deflected off the keeper for a corner kick. Two minutes later, Cristiano sent a rocket off the far post following a magical run.

Real Madrid tried every which way, but there was no answer. Benzema nearly tapped in what would have been the winner on 83’, but Deportivo managed to clear the ball. Mourinho put it all on the line with three changes that saw the back line reduced to three men, but it simply wasn’t the day. Time to begin preparing for Thursday’s match against Malaga at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Summary

Stadium: Riazor
Attendance: 35,000
Goals: -

Link

Cristiano "The Untouchable"

And in the 25th day ... Cristiano will not rest. The Portuguese will start against Deportivo and tonight will become the only player in the league who has played every minute of the championship. CR7 is now tied with Iraola, but the low due to suspension of the Bilbao defense leaves him as the only untouchable in the league.

Crisitano will not rest tonight

The stroke he suffered in his left ankle against Lyon made alarm bells ringing in the Real Madrid expedition but Mourinho confirmed that Ronaldo will join the starting lineup and has no intention to give him rest: "He's fine and will play. It is useless I protect him ,because injuries can not be foreseen. Canales has been injured in a relaxed training, a sign that in the world of football is impossible to protect players".

In this way, Cristiano Ronaldo will reach the 2,363 minutes in the league, even ahead of Iker Casillas, that if he completes the whole game tonight, will reach 2,086. The third Real Madrid player with more minutes is Marcelo who tonight will be starter and will accumulate 1,994 minutes. These data include the minutes added by the referees.

Until now, Iraola and Cristiano are the ones who had played every possible minute, but the Basque ahead Portuguese by three minutes. Today, Iraola will stay in second position. The third player on the field (no goalkeeper) with more minutes in the league is Torrejón (Santander), who has played 23 complete games and has only been replaced in one match (2217 minutes).

Is a target of Cristiano to finish the season playing every minute of the championship?

Preview: Deportivo vs Real Madrid

There was nothing of "Superdepor" and still remained the curse of Real Madrid in Riazor; 19 years without a win. Since last seaso the spell does not resist. Deportivo, which is twenty seasons in the First Spanish Division, fight in the League with the purpose of avoiding relegation positions which is three points away. And it's not a bad year for Galician team, not at all: it is what it is. Subsistence economy and Miguel Angel Lotina acting as mother of large family, smiling in front of adversity.

Therefore, Real Madrid visit a team that gave up the money first and then the magic. Add the lows: Manuel Pablo, Saul, Valeron and Xisco (notice that nothing is superfluous). Join the statistics: one win in the last four home games (1-0 against Villarreal) and 21 goals scored (only Racing Santander has scored so few).

The outlook for Deportivo would be dark but there are signs of recovery, others would call green buds. Guardado appears recovered from a succession of muscular injuries that left him playing only half an hour in the last four months. Today he could play as starter. And apart from the muscles back together, what better sign that the goal of Aranzubía (Deportivo goalkeeper) in Almeria, the best episode to say that since it the novel changed.

While Deportivo lives calling good spirits, Real Madrid walks with giants tread. Only the closeness of the match against Olympique Lyon suggests a minimal risk. By exhaustion and concentration, or rather, by the relaxation that follows the maximum concentration. Mourinho is expected to oxygenate the team that played on Tuesday in the Champions League with Albiol, Marcelo and Lass, who will break Carvalho (presumably), Ramos and the injured Khedira. It would be logical that Benzema, impeccable in Gerland, keep the job, otherwise he will never know what to do to be a starter at Mourinho's Real Madrid.

The tone of the coachs words in the hours before, show the spirit of each. Lotina, skeptical and ironic joke with the possibility of fielding Aranzubía as striker and bragged of having beaten Mourinho, although it was a friendly match. Portuguese complained about the schedule, the privileges of others, rumors of signings. The soap opera had already said: "Rich also cry". A lot.

Riazor has an account to settle with Mourinho

Mourinho is not a beloved character in A Coruña. Real Madrid coach had a controversy with the blue and white fans in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final in 2004 and since then they are waiting for him.

Jose Mourinho 2004

In the first leg, Porto and Deportivo tied 0-0. In the Galician city it was conceived as a good result and had high hopes of being able to stand in the final. Mourinho did not like it and the day before the game said a message: "I see them very confident".

Porto won 0-1 and reached the final (ended up being champion). At the end of the match, the current white coach continued delving into the wound: "I told you, you were very confident" he said. This episode is not forgotten in La Coruña.

Jose Ramon Pena, president of the Deportivo's Fans Federation, is one who does not hide his disagreement with those comments: "I was quite upset. He is a provocateur. He should not have done it, although it is part of his theater. I am sure fans will be welcomed with whistles because people remember. It was a very important game in the history of Deportivo", he recalls.

Sergio Ramos; Real Madrid player until 2017

Sergio Ramos and Real Madrid have virtually ended the contract renewal agreement of Seville defender which will join him at the white entity until 2017. It is estimated that the player will charge around four and a half million euros per season. Once announced the continuity of the Spanish international player, Pepe could be the next.

Sergio Ramos

Jose Mourinho agrees with the idea of the club and believes that Ramos must be one of the pillars on which to base the team's future. The substitution in Cornella (vs Espanyol), for some people a coach's punishment according to the supposed anarchy of the defender, was just a break. No hard feelings. It was demonstrated against Levante and Olympique Lyon, where he started on the right side.

Sergio Ramos arrived at Real Madrid in the summer of 2005, after paying 27 million euros. His performance has not gone unnoticed by big European clubs, some of them willing to shell out more money than white club paid to Sevilla.

The last to knock Real Madrid's door asking for Ramos have been Chelsea and Milan. Especially tempting was the offer of the Italian team. Milan offered Pato, one of its most important players. Both teams received the same answer: Sergio is already like a shield.

The renewal agreement has not been made official because the club is still looking for the right time. Once announced the continuation of Spanish, will be the turn of Pepe. In the club there is absolute confidence that the Portuguese will extend his contract. Sergio Ramos and Pepe will remain the team's defensive base for many years.

Shimon Peres: "Real Madrid is a symbol of peace"

Real Madrid yesterday morning received the visit of Shimon Peres, President of Israel. Mr. Peres was received in Valdebebas by Florentino Perez and Butragueño who showed him some of the trophies of the club and presented him with a silver replica of the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Then Mr. Peres greeted the team members. Walk the field, Mourinho was waiting him and on the grass Casillas was the first to greet him. "Nice to meet you, I admire you so much" confessed the Nobel Peace Prize 1994. "Pleasure to meet you is ours" replied the captain.

Shimon Peres and Casillas

Then, after delivering him a Real Madrid shirt with the number 1 and his name, Casillas introduced one by one his peers. "Football has solved one of the biggest problems in our lives. Madrid is a symbol of peace. You fight without killing and without hate" he said.

The President of Israel who is visiting Spain, continued: "I want you to know the love all our children feel for Real Madrid. They want to be like you, you are like heroes. When they see you, their eyes light up. You are a very powerful team. A group that does not fight anyone, but to achieve a better world".

1,500 tickets remaining to see a full Riazor Stadium

Riazor Stadium does not vibrate as in the heyday of the Champions League, but there are days when it makes an exception and the visit by Real Madrid is an excellent excuse. Depor's stadium was friendly in the sixties, seventies and eighties, but changed with the arrival of "Superdepor". What does not vary is the expectation that the white club awakens in A Coruña, that will ensure that Riazor to fill for the first time this season and bind to hang the poster of 'No tickets'.

Riazor Stadium

Are about 1,500 tickets on sale. Tickets expected to sell in the next three days. The other offer, but more expensive, is the possibility of renting one of two VIP boxes with capacity for ten people which are still free.

All fans still have time to get the latest sale locations. Given the expectation that raises the white club, the Galician team put them on sale for just over three months and very reasonable prices. The price ranged between 45 and 90 euros.

This Deportivo-Real Madrid will be the 41st of the history, with a balance that is still favorable to the interests of the local team, even though the white team broke the Riazor's curse. Real Madrid spent 19 years without a win in A Coruña, but thirteen months ago won his eleventh victory in the league in Riazor.

Kaka: Second game without playing

As the season progresses, Kaka is losing opportunities to demonstrate his quality.The Brazilian adds two unreleased games in two weeks of competition. He plays, but the minor matches. On 13 February in Cornella-El Prat, he did not play a minute against Espanyol. On Tuesday, he did not step on the grass against Lyon at Gerland Stadium. Between these matches, he started against Levante (75 minutes). A game in which Mourinho was thinking about the Champions rotations. But Kaka is not convincing. Özil's shadow is too large.

He reappeared on 3 January after overcoming two injuries (meniscus in his left knee and groin injury), after 242 days of inactivity. This season he has played 378 minutes spread over 10 games. And added two goals: Real Sociedad and Villarreal. The Brazilian has the motivation to play the Copa America in Argentina with his national team in July, but he does not play for Real Madrid and that is a drawback.

Kaka and Mourinho

Blackburn. If last week Corinthians dreamed of signing Kaka, this week Blackburn Rovers has been interested in signing the Brazilian for next season, according to several British media suggest. The player, meanwhile, remains steadfast: "I want to succeed here".

His daughter will be born in April in Brazil. Carolina Celico, wife of Kaka, presumed of Hello! Brazil cover through Twitter. The couple also appears in the Spanish edition, but not cover (here are Piqué and Shakira). Kaka and Carolina pose pregnant for the cameras. Their future child will be born in Brazil in April, with full competition and Real Madrid in the Cup final.

Champions League (Last-16, 1st Leg): Mourinho reactions

MOURINHO: "WE PLAY A TRUE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE GAME"

Jose Mourinho

"I feel we did more to win 2-0 than to draw 1-1, but this is nevertheless a good result because we'll play the return leg at our stadium before our fans. They have to help us reach the quarterfinals."

"It is very complicated to be a referee. You don't like it when a ref is late or misses something during the game, but certain situations are unacceptable. I saw a player touch the ball with his elbow 50 metres away and the ref, who was just 5 metres away, didn't award a penalty. This is the Champions League, a competition that showcases the best players, the best clubs and the best referees. None of the four refs on the pitch saw the handball. I hope it doesn't prove decisive at the end of the knockout stage. It would be very sad if it did."

"It's still open. Lyon are a very strong side with experience in Europe, so we can't think this is over. We earned a good result, that's it. They've proven to be a solid and competitive side away from home. I still believe either team has a 50% chance of reaching the next round."

"We've changed our history here tonight. Real Madrid had never scored here until today. They've never defeated Lyon in Madrid, so we want to change history yet again."

"Benzema took the pitch very well. I knew the first half would be tough and that there would be few spaces for us to attack in. There were more in the second half and Karim is a player who is very dangerous in open spaces. He scored a great goal that is very important to us. He is fit to be a starter at Real Madrid. He has made progress on all aspects of the game. I felt bad for benching him at the start because this was his homecoming, but it was better for him to come on in the second half."

Link

Champions League (Last-16, 1st Leg): Benzema reactions

BENZEMA: "WE NEEDED THE GOAL"

Karim Benzema

"It was a very special game because it was my club and also for us was very important to score away from home", said Karim Benzema who scored the goal that advanced Real Madrid on the scoreboard and may be gold in the tie.

"I will work to score in every game. For us it was important score in Lyon and the resultis good. I hope the white fans will help us overcome this tie at the Bernabeu", he added.

It was, for French, emotionally intense crash: "In the field was all my family and I could make a goal. It was special".

Champions League: Last-16 (1st Leg)

OLYMPIQUE LYON 1 - REAL MADRID 1

Real Madrid came away with a 1-1 draw against Olympique Lyon at Stade Gerland in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16. The Whites played a fantastic second half that included two shots off the post and a penalty that went unseen by the referee. Benzema scored to give the Real the lead and Gomis knocked in the equalizer, but all will be decided in the second leg on 16 March in the Bernabeu Stadium.

Benzema

Early pressure by Lyon put the Madridistas in a bind. Nine players would retreat when they lost the ball, they prevented Madrid from circulating and they provoked one turnover after the next. Even then, Casillas’ only notable intervention came on 33’, when he got an elbow to a Gomis strike. Real Madrid created few opportunities before a Cristiano Ronaldo free-kick that Lloris punched clear will little signs of trouble. The first half came to a close with a Lyon charge led by Bastos and Gomis, but Carvalho and Pepe managed to bring it to a quick halt.

An energized Madrid took the pitch for the restart and in no time wreaked havoc on the Lyon defense. Cristiano Ronaldo hit the left post with a free-kick on 48’ and one minute later Ramos’ header following a corner kick taken by Ozil struck the top of the crossbar. On 63’, the referee failed to call a penalty after a free-kick struck off the elbow of Delgado inside the Lyon box. Mourinho subsequently replaced Adebayor with Benzema and the move immediately paid off. The Frenchman stole the ball on the left flank and passed to Ozil, who then found Cristiano. The Portuguese international dumped the ball to Benzema, who withstood pressure from Reveillere and before going to the ground shoved the ball through the keeper’s legs and into the back of the net.

Both teams made changes following the goal. Lass replaced Khedira and Marcelo stepped in for Ozil, while Pjanic came on for Lyon and soon thereafter initiated the play that resulted in the equalizer. The Bosnian curled in a free-kick, the ball struck off Cris’ head and Gomis fired the deflection into the net. Lyon continued to pressure during the late stages of the match, but Madrid were organized and steadfast and managed to hold on to the draw with the second leg scheduled for 16 March at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Summary

Stadium: Gerland
Attendance: 40,200
Goals: 0-1, min. 65: Benzema; 1-1, min. 84: Gomis

Link

Preview: Lyon vs Real Madrid

Lyon vs Real Madrid

At this exact moment, Tuesday, February 22, Champions League last-16 knockout round, Real Madrid could have come with the autopilot. In fact, reached this place in the last six seasons with different coaches: from Luxemburgo to Pellegrini. It is now that Mourinho should appear. It is now that the team has to differentiate and win the opponent that has not won in six games and fly with a drag less.

It does not seem so difficult and here lies the first difficulty. It did not seem dangerous Monaco, Rome, nor Lyon last season, which white fans hardly remember any of its stars. And against all, Real Madrid was defeated.

To correct this dark drift, Mourinho secretly prepares a team. In principle, it would be expected he will play with a triple pivot; with Lass, Xabi and Khedira, three very physical midfielders to slow the local push. In this case, Di Maria would be sacrificed and in front of the media line Cristiano and Özil would move with Adebayor as striker. Not a bad plan.

Another option would be to advance the position of Marcelo, cover his position with Arbeloa and dispense with one of the industrial pivot; Khedira or Lass. In any variant, Arbeloa, who rested against Levante, points to starter, either the left or to replace Sergio Ramos who five years later does not escape of his reputation; messy defense.

The tactical problem is not minor: Lyon last year accumulated up to four players in midfield and the movement of Madrid was collapsed, choked under pressure and without sides where relief (Marcelo was low). The result is that Makoun scored; 1-0.

Lyon will repeat the base of the last season team; Lloris, Réveillère, Cissokho, Toulalan, Delgado, Bastos, Källström and Bafetimbi Gomis. Add to them the aristocratic Gourcuff (signed by 26.5 million from Girondins). Yes, Lyon have improved substantially.

Lisandro is special case. He will miss the match for temporary insanity, annoyed by his replacement in the last league game, kick a ball with such rage that was injured. Despite the setback, Lyon is presented in the spirit of its last matches (1-4 at Saint-Etienne, 4-0 against Nancy). Two victories that kept team in the fight for the title, waiting to play the next day against the leader, Lille, four points ahead.

The game does not lack a grand stage. Gerland Stadium was built in 1920 by German prisoners of World War I and declared "historical monument" in 1967 by its archways. Moreover, conventional: 41,000 spectators and high humidity due to the proximity of the Rhone and Saone rivers, which converge at 700 meters from the field.

League (Day 24): Mourinho reactions

Jose Mourinho had nothing but kind words for his players following their 2-0 victory, which extends his personal home winning streak in league games to nine years.

Mourinho and Luis García

"I liked that my team played a serious match. These games ahead of Champions League matches can be complicated because players may focus more on the European competition. The team played well and was very focused."

"We knew Levante would make it tough. They were organized in defense, but we scored early and had things under control. Winning and resting players is what mattered."

"I like how Sergio Ramos and Benzema played. Cristiano always likes to play. He is fine from a physical standpoint and does not feel tired, so why should I take him out? A player can get hurt at any time. The risk is always there and we can't do anything about it."

"I started a team that I thought would be enough to win and we respected the opponent because we knew they had a solid defense. We had to be creative and dynamic, which is why I used four players in attack. I think it's only normal that I rest Xabi and Ozil, who will play the next match, when I still have other alternatives."

"Ever since we drew Lyon, we have been studying and learning about them. Real Madrid have two barriers to break down against Lyon. It's been years since Madrid made it through to the Last 16 and it's because they have never beaten Lyon. I would like to know if Lisandro, Briando or Delgado will be playing. We have to study all the possibilities and be prepared for anything and everything."

Link

Spanish League: Day 24

REAL MADRID 2 - LEVANTE 0

Real Madrid breezed by a Levante squad more concerned about the drubbing they received earlier in the year in Copa action than leaving the Bernabeu with points in tow. Benzema scored on 7’ and Carvalho on 41’ and it was smooth sailing from there on out for the Whites, who pull within two points of the lead.

Carvalho celebrates his goal against Levante

With Tuesday’s Champions League match against Lyon fast approaching, Xabi Alonso and Ozil took the bench against Levante’s five-man back line. But little good did it do Luis Garcia’s men. Only six minutes in, Di Maria cruised past two defenders and curled in a low cross for Benzema to punch into the net. The chances continued to flow and Cristiano Ronaldo nearly scored twice but was stymied by Munua on both occasions.

Shortly before the break, CR7 sent in a powerful free kick that met Carvalho’s knee and put the Whites up by two. Levante on the contrary did little to disturb Adan, who had one of the calmest first halves of his career.

Not much changed after the restart. Cristiano nearly had the team’s third by way of a header but Munua got a hand to it to keep the game close. Ozil and Adebayor stepped in for Kaka and Di Maria on 75’ with the German needing little time to dazzle. His combination with Ronaldo almost proved fruitful, but it wasn’t the Portuguese international’s night. Levante meanwhile continued being no cause for concern for Adan.

Real Madrid move within two points of the lead with the win and now turn their sights to Tuesday’s Champions League match against Lyon.

Summary

Stadium: Santiago Bernabéu
Attendance: 65,000
Goals: 1-0, m.7: Benzema. 2-0, m.41: Carvalho.

Link

Mourinho: "The match against Levante is the most important"

Jose Mourinho at press conference

The team is on a dynamic upward ...
"I'm happy. We've had difficult games and I believe the team is returning to top form. I rather liked our performance against Espanyol because my men showcased disciplined and played to the limit of their strength. That's what I'm interested in at this stage in which everything is at stake for us."

If you do not lose the match against Levante, you will be nine years without a fall at home. The last time was in Beira Mar in 2002. How do you remember that day and how did you get that record?
"I don't do anything to keep my undefeated home record. If we happen to be drawing the game with 15 minutes to go tomorrow, I will not try to keep that result in order to keep my record. I want to win the match. I don't want to think about records. It means nothing to me next to the points we can take at home because these may produce titles. That's what matters."

What is your opinion about Olympique Lyonnais?
"We'll talk about the match against Olympique Lyonnais when the time comes. I will make two changes to my lineup tomorrow, but they won't be very important. The main structure and quality of the team will remain. Albiol will take Pepe's place, but this isn't new. I'm just trying to protect a player who hasn't played for a month. I will use Sergio, Albiol, Carvalho and Marcelo in defence. I'm making changes without really changing anything at all. Cristiano Ronaldo will also play. I don't think it's necessary for him to rest because he's strong and very important to us. I will give him time off when I think he should rest."

There are one hundred days of the season. Are the most important of your career?
"I regard the match against Levante as the most important in my career simply because it is the next one. These next few days are always the most important in every season because everything's at stake. My career has been too long, so it isn't right to say the next few months will be the most important in it."

"Levante are a dangerous team. We've faced them three times this season and they've only lost against us once. They are having a good run and they recently defeated Villarreal. They are out of the relegation zone, they are dangerous and they are having a happy streak. Caicedo is a threat. He, Stuani and Jorda are dangerous on goal. They shoot well and they're also good at heading the ball in."

After the setbacks of Barcelona, do you think can cut five points before the "Classic"?
"Are normal setbacks. Draw a game away is usual. Also losing in the Champions League. I am not elated to think that starting a losing streak of Barcelona."

Do you prefer to play before Barcelona to press?
"I do not care because what I want, Spanish League does not give it to me. It's good for Barcelona because it will have an extra day to rest. I would have liked to play on Friday, as the Lyon. Sevilla played on Thursday and will do again on Sunday, while Porto has no match. In Germany, France and Italy protect their teams. I would have liked to play against Deportivo on Sunday, but the match is scheduled to the next Saturday. I would have preferred to play against Malaga on Wednesday and it will be on Thursday. They do not fool me."

What about rotations?
"We will make two or three very important changes. We think Carvalho to rest, but Pepe is more than a month without playing and Carvalho is easier to recover from Saturday toTuesday."

Cristiano has played 90 minutes in ten games in a row...
"He will play eleven against Levante. I see no need. He is very strong, look against Espanyol. He ended up doing 50 meter races."

Do you consider Sergio Ramos as a substitute?
"To me, Sergio is no substitute. With all the defense at my disposal, I have my four central defenses and he passes to be one of the three side defenses."

Why you do not leave Pedro Leon go on loan to Chelsea?
"Because when a player is transferred, he must go to be the holder. If he's going to be a replacement, I do not allow it."

Preview: Real Madrid vs Levante

Real Madrid declares the "Hundred Days War"

According to what Jose Mourinho told at press conference, for the Real Madrid begins the countdown to one hundred key days that will culminate on 28 May in the Champions League final. The accuracy of the data (there was not rounding; one hundred days left yesterday for that exact date) full of reasons to anyone who thinks that his head has calculated millimeter season, including winks and rudeness.

In that flight plan, and the Lyon just around the corner (Tuesday, 20:45), the coach used his speech to the media to complain about the national schedule (little consideration with teams which compete in Europe) and to announce rotations. On the changes he just discovered, the rest of Pepe, presumably to stress his importance; Albiol will be the relieve. We have to guess the other news; We bet on Kaka and Benzema to replace Özil and Adebayor respectively. Cristiano, as the coach said, does not rest because he does not tire. Curious wonder.

The rival, because there is, the Levante of Luis Garcia. It should be noted that this team was dead in sporting terms. It had problems to score agoal (Caicedo is fixing the problem) and the referees as enemies. But a miracle has happened. Three wins in three games (Getafe, Villarreal and Almeria) and two points above the relegation places. Seeing is believing.

Its visit to the Bernabeu Stadium is marked by history. Especially for the 8-0, December 23, in Cup competition (three goals from Benzema and Cristiano), but you must also remember the tie in the league (0-0) and the Levante's victory in the 2nd Leg of that Cup round (2-0). That is, a team of several faces, three, at least.

The expectation is that Luis Garcia, chastened by experience, play today with a five-defense and set up a single player as striker, Caicedo (80 kilos of rock). The ecuadorian and Valdo, a former Real Madrid player, have been handed all Levante's goals in the last three team victories.

To the Real Madrid fans who imagine a peaceful match, it must be remembered that today begins another war. The last one: the "Hundred Days War".

Corinthians wants to sign Kaka

Corinthians wants to sign Kaka to overcome the Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos lows. Its intention is to counter the signings of Ronaldinho (Flamengo) and Rivaldo (Sao Paulo).

Kaka

According to the newspaper "Folha de Sao Paulo", the team is sending an official representative to Madrid to know the opinion of the player and to begin negotiations with Real Madrid if it was possible. Corinthians needs to give a bombshell after the sudden departure of its two biggest stars, Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos, because the team's early elimination in "Copa Libertadores", against the modest Deportes Tolima from Colombia.

The price is the fundamental problem that has the signing of Kaka. Real Madrid paid 67 million for him. The player signed for six years with ten million annual salary. He still has four years to accomplish. The operation, between the cost of transfer and the salary of the player, would cost at least 70 million euros for Corinthians, an amount that does not seem to reach the Brazilian team.

According to Brazilian media, the player has thanked the interest of Corinthians, but thinks it is difficult to leave Madrid at the moment. Kaka has left behind a pubic bone injury and a knee problem and has come back into Mourinho's plans, who would ultimately have to approve this operation.

But even with these drawbacks, Corinthians is determined to make an offer to Kaka at the slightest opportunity. For the Brazilian club is a strategic move that will help restore its image, damaged by the elimination in Copa Libertadores and the media signings of its direct competitors, Sao Paulo and Flamengo. In Brazil is said that Corinthians would pay him the salary (ten million euros) that Kaka earns in Real Madrid.

Mourinho: "God must think I am a nice guy"

Mourinho was in a radio broadcast in Spain and went through Real Madrid's present, placing emphasis on the situation of Pepe: "Is the renewal and extension of contract with Pepe critical for you?". Direct and forceful response from the Portuguese: "Yes".

Madrid coach was realistic about goals: "We can win all three, as we can not win any. Although not winning any competition would be a little hard" He clarified that hopes to win a title: "The natural tendency is to win something and initiating a series of victories" And he made a note: "I expect a lot more of my team next year".

Jose Mourinho

Mourinho spoke about the possibility of winning the Champions: "It is no coincidence that Porto and Inter won in my second season when the team was done. But we have the same chance of winning this year than other teams".

He did not dodge the issue of continuity: "If they do not throw me ... I signed four years and I have the intention of complying. Recently I said that if we were happy there was no reason not to follow. The truth is that I am happier in the last month. I see the club in the same direction as me. We are working with more empathy, because empathy has always been good with Florentino Pérez and José Ángel Sánchez (executive director)".

He analyzed the reason for this change in his situation: "The club understands me better. I always say it is easy to work with me because I am organized. But I have the feeling that it is not easy to work with me because of my character. My relationship with President is good and I share many ideas with José Ángel.

He did not mention Valdano until was asked: "He will work at the club because they are happy with him. There is no problem working in the club with him. In Valdebebas I have the power I have to have. There is no need for another person to do that work with us. The ideal structure for a club is that the coach reports directly to the President and the economist and executive director as José Angel. He described as normal his relationship with Valdano.

In relation to his players he explained the absence of Canales and Pedro León: "I try to summon all. A young player must not turn back, must fight". He explained that they have ahead people like Cristiano and Özil and compared their situation with Adam: "Adam always works as he goes to play on Sunday and knows that it is not, so he played well against Espanyol". Mourinho gave no importance to the substitution of Ramos: "I like to talk about positive aspects. Arbeloa's performances were good. There is no problem with Sergio". In addition, he spoke about the continuity of Adebayor in June: "Real Madrid has a privileged position with him. He is a player I like".

"Would Raúl play a lot this year with you?". "No doubt" he replied. And finally, he emphasized what he thinks God thinks of him: "He must think I am a nice guy, otherwise would not give me so much".

Claude Puel: "Real Madrid has improved on the physical"

The Lyon coach, Claude Puel, said Wednesday that Real Madrid, his next opponent in the Champions League, has improved this season thanks to its players work hard in all facets of the game: "I respect Real Madrid for its quality and especially since this season has improved on the physical and have players who sacrifice more" said the coach in a press conference less than a week to the match between the two teams at the Gerland Stadium in the first leg of last 16.

Claude Puel

Claude Puel attended last Sunday match between Real Madrid and Espanyol in Barcelona, and was impressed by the provision of the white set: "They should have left with nine players for the Espanyol have any choice, because even with ten looked like they were outnumbered", he joked Puel.

The coach added that: "Real Madrid is a team with six players making a lot of work and four that provide show". The coach appeared in front of the media, relaxed and confident he can make an upset in a tournament where the favorite does not always win as it was demonstrated by the matches where Valencia and Milan were surprised by the Shalke 04 and Tottenham, respectively.

"We're back to pointing out the difficulties that teams playing at home faced this season.The hierarchy is not imposed, which opens prospects for the rest of the world" he said with a big smile, referring to Real Madrid.

Florentino Pérez inaugurated a social-sports school in Riyadh

The Real Madrid president, Florentino Pérez, was very pleased in Riyadh for the next birth of the first social-sports school of the Real Madrid Foundation in Saudi Arabia: "Real Madrid is a football legend, which gives us the unique ability to cross borders in search of charitable causes that can help those most in need", white president said during the presentation.

This was the last stop of the Real Madrid Foundation after inaugurating, two days after, a social-sports school in Adu Dhabi (UAE), without forgetting that the Real Madrid Foundation is already present in 32 countries with the operation of 68 sports academys.

"Our target is not to develop players, but rather to help children develop in other aspects of life and to learn and spread the values of Madridismo. Talent, the ability to overcome adversity, respect for rivals, teamwork, hard work, solidarity..." he emphasized.

So Pérez is clear that these "schools can improve the quality of life of about thirty thousand children around the world". "Our goal is to reach 500 schools spread throughout the world", said the president in comments reported by the club's website.

"Thank you all for sharing this challenge with us and thank you to Saudi Arabia, which is already in Real Madrid's heart. We also want to be leaders in charitable causes. We will never forget our goal of making the world a more fair place", he finished.

During his stay in Riyadh, Florentino Perez visited the Prince Salman Bin Abdul-AzizAl-Saud, Governor of Riyadh, at the Government Palace where they spoke about the objectives that both the Real Madrid Foundation as the Prince Salman search through the creation of the first social-sports school in Riyadh. The agreement was signed on 7 February at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

The Riad future school expects nearly 300 children and will serve as a starting point for an alliance of present and future.

The world in love with Cristiano's girlfriend

Irina Shayk, Cristiano Ronaldo's girlfriend, has made the leap to stardom thanks to 'Sports Illustrated'. The Russian model is the big star and front page of the famous 'Swinsuit 2011', undoubtedly one of the most desired reports of the year. With this cover Irina has become the world swimsuit queen.

Irina Shayk

You can watch the "making of" here.

Adebayor: "Cesc would be a great signing for Real Madrid"

The Real Madrid player, Emmanuel Adebayor, has admitted that Cesc Fabregas "would be a huge boost to the white team". "I was with him 3 and a half years, is a great player and I would be happy if he came" said the Togolese in the presentation of his new boots.

Emmanuel Adebayor

The striker has said he sees his team as the favorite to win the Champions 2011: "It's not easy to win because there are teams like Barcelona and Tottenham". "We will win the Champions League" he said in Spanish.

On the relationship with coach Jose Mourinho, Adebayor has said he has his confidence: "It's always good to have the confidence of the mister, it has been clear to me and says all he wants I do. He wants I give 100% and to enjoy" he said. Although he was in the starting lineup on Sunday, the striker does not see himself as starter: "I just think about playing football. I will not bother anyone, I had the opportunity to start and work hard to help. It is not important how many goals I will score" said the white player.

The Togolese has acknowledged he is very happy in his new club: "I'm happy, the city is fantastic, the club and the players have made it easy for me. Casillas speak English with me, Ramos tries and I have a good friend as Lass. I was born happy and live happily" he underlined. The white forward has not clarified his future: "I'm happy. I love playing for Madrid and have 4 or 5 months to enjoy the club and decide".

The former Manchester City said he has a good relationship with Benzema despite fighting for the same position: "We train hard to be prepared. You have to sacrifice for the team as did Di Maria against Espanyol. We have good relationship and is the coach who decides".

About the match that Arsenal, his former club, will play tonight against Barcelona, Adebayor has opted for the English side: "The two play very well and have very good players like Xavi,Nasri ... There will be 22 great players on the field. In football you do not know what can happen but I love Arsenal because it helped me grow. I have many friends there and bet on them."

Finally, the Real Madrid striker has said he never wanted compare himself with Raul: "I never compare myself to Raul who is a symbol of football. When I was with Morientes at Monaco, I asked him a T-shirt from Raul and I have it in Togo. It is a fantastic player. I do not know if I could get to be like him." he concluded.

Mourinho: Almost nine years unbeaten at home

If Real Madrid wins or draws against Levante, Mourinho will connect 148 consecutive matches without losing at home. His balance so far is as follows: 122 wins and 25 draws. Portuguese does not know defeat at home since February 23, 2002, when he lost, coaching Oporto, against Beira Mar (2-3) with nine players on the field. The match against Levante is special because Mourinho could add nine years unbeaten at home.

The white team has played 11 games this season at the Bernabeu Stadium and has won all with a record of 35 goals scored and only six against. Mourinho continues now in Madrid the path of success achieved in Porto, Chelsea and Inter.

Jose Mourinho

A statistic that justifies the large number of awards that Jose Mourinho has earned during his coaching career:

• UEFA Coach of the year (4): 2002/03, 2003/04, 2004/2005 and 2009/2010.
• World Soccer Magazine Coach of the year (3): 2003/04, 2004/05 y 2009/2010.
• FA Premier League Coach ot the year (2): 2004/05 y 2005/06.
• FA Premier League Coach of the month (3): November 2004, January 2005 and March 2007.
• IFFHS Coach of the year (3): 2004, 2005 y 2010.
• Serie A (Italy) Coach of the year (2): 2008/09 y 2009/2010.
• Onze Prize Coach of the year (2): 2004/2005 y 2009/2010.
• Ballon d'Or Coach of the year (1): 2010

Interview: Raúl

Raul has returned to Spain. He plays today with his team, Shalke 04, against Valencia. Faced with dozens of journalists, talked about the match, the Spanish League and Real Madrid.

Raúl

You were greeted at the airport in Valencia with applause, is this a special journey?

"It is a special game. This is the first time I return to Spain after eight months. I am very pleased with the reception. People show me affection and I thank it. A Champions League knockout tie is always special, and more against a great team like Valencia at a great stadium like Mestalla. I'm looking forward to playing and hope to get a good result."

How do you expect will Mestalla fans receive you? You have not been much loved in her visits with Real Madrid?
"That's not my problem. I come to play a game, to enjoy a Champions League tie and try to do my best for my team. The rest does not worry me."

Would you have preferred to face Real Madrid? Do you think like Emery that Real Madrid and Barcelona are favorites for the Champions League?
"The draw has been in this way and must be accepted. I wished they had not been a Spanish team, but here we are. The Madrid and Barcelona are the strongest, but here there are always surprises, not rule out Chelsea, Manchester or Inter. Schalke at the moment, step by step and think about Valencia."

Raul and the Champions League have always gone hand in hand. If next year Schalke does not play Champions League, would you consider a way out?
"At present and for a year and a half Raul and Schalke go together."

What differences do you see between the Liga and the Bundesliga? In Spain the league is only about two, Barcelona and Real Madrid.
"They are different competitions. In the Bundesliga the latter can beat the leader, is a more physical game. I'm having a great time and I'm enjoying it. In the stadium there is always a great atmosphere and being a great experience. I know other methods, another way of playing and living football. I'm trying to get everything good. I hope to be two years and even longer if the body holds."

What is your relationship with Real Madrid?
"I have spent 16 years at the club. I do not leave and forget about it. I am following Madrid, and Real Madrid will always be in my heart. But I am all about Schalke now, my head is here and I will give everything for this club."

Do you believe Madrid can win the Liga?
"Of course, but if Barcelona continues playing like that, it will be difficult for the title to escape them. That is another history."

League (Day 23): Marcelo and Pepe reactions

MARCELO: "WE ARE ALL FIGHTING TOGHETER TO WIN"

Marcelo

Real have won a victory in a very difficult field. Do you imagine that it would be so difficult?

"We knew it would be very complicated but we did not hope an expulsion so soon. All played our hardest and we reverse the situation. It is a very important victory to keep fighting for the league."

Team demonstrated an extraordinary character to win a match that started badly for you ...
"This is a great family and we are all fighting together to win. Whenever we get the three points."

You scored your first goal this season. This puts team back in the fight for the League.
"I am delighted to score and can help the team. But more important was the victory and catching up to Barcelona."

With the effort you made to defeat Espanyol has become clear that Real Madrid is not physically ill, as some say ...
"People talk about what they want, but we work hard to get this win and so we will continue until the end of the season. We are very excited about these three points and to achieve a new victory."

PEPE: "WE FACED UP TO THE CHALLENGE"

Pepe

What adifficult game to play again!
"It is a reward to me to be in the starting eleven. It was a chance not to disappoint the coach. I've worked hard for this. I am very happy with the job I did today and with the efforts my team-mates made. Espanyol have very good players and it was hard for us to score. It was a tense and complicated game, so we are very happy with this victory."

What did you think when you saw the Barcelona match in Gijon?
"We faced up to the challenge. We are working to catch up with Barcelona. We still have to face them at home and, if we win, we will be closer to winning the title. If we continue to concentrate this hard, to showcase maturity and working this well, we will catch up with Barcelona."

Did Casillas touch Callejon in the play of the expulsion?
"The play is very fast. It is an interpretation of the referee and we are there to play. I do not know well, but the good thing is that we react."

Are you going to renew for Real Madrid?"I will not discuss this issue. At the moment I can only say I am happy in Madrid and people treat me very well. I will do everything possible to stay."

Valdano said after the game that your renewal is progressing well...
"Good to hear that (laughs). I have to do my work on the field."

Any offer of Barcelona?
"I am a Real player and it is a lack of respect for the people of Madrid. I'm happy at Madrid."

League (Day 23): Mourinho reactions

Does Real return to restore confidence in the League after reaching five points behind Barcelona?
"My players' sacrifice and performance were fantastic. This is an important victory, earned against a strong opponent that has a very good home record. We even lost our goalkeeper and made another make his debut in La Liga. This also forced us to take off an important player like Di Maria, who can always hurt opponents with his speed, and to have only two real substitutions. Too many things were against us and I guess the whole country thought we wouldn't win, but we did and even deserved to do so with more goals."

Had you trained the option to keep a player down?
"My players read the game very well. I spoke to Xabi after the red card and they all understood what I wanted. We didn't experience problems against a very good team that has fast forwards who always play on the verge of an offside."

Barcelona has no rest this week...
"I'm nobody in Spanish football, but I would like to express an opinion: French, German, Italian and Portuguese teams have three days off when they have to play a European match. I ask for this to happen here, not just for Real Madrid, but for Spanish football as a whole. Teams in other countries have this advantage and we don't."

The advantage of Barcelona is enough?
"I will not change my discourse now that we are two points closer. Barcelona have a five-point lead and I would like to be in that situation. If I were Barcelona, I would feel comfortable with such a lead. If mathematics say it is possible for us to win we'll have to believe in that. When I was leading the table in other championships, I used to be asked if I felt any pressure, and I didn't because I depended on myself. Pressure comes from lagging behind because you cannot afford to make mistakes."

How do you rate the game that Pepe and Adebayor have made?
"Pepe played a fantastic game and Adebayor did the work of three players. They all did sacrifices. Adan had an unexpected debut and was fantastic. He looked like a veteran. I wish to congratulate Antonio and all the goalkeepers that train with us. I also wish to congratulate our goalkeeper coach, who does real miracles and who, with all due respect to all goalkeeper coaches, I regard as the best in the world."

Do you still like Mateu Lahoz after this game?
"The referee may have been wrong to send off Casillas and for not awarding us a penalty, but I like the intesnity and high level of play he allows. I obviously don't like to lose players, but he is a great referee who has a right to make mistakes, if he made mistakes that is. He doesn't like divers and my team has none. That's why I like him."

What do you think about the comments of Joan Gaspart (former Barcelona president) who said you earned 60 euros in Barcelona?
"No comments. I was poor in Portugal and came to Barcelona to remain poor."

Spanish League: Day 23

ESPANYOL 0 - REAL MADRID 1

Team celebrates Marcelo's goal

Real Madrid always returns. Also this time, hooked up to the best of its tradition, after a tremendous match where everything done was heroic. Soaking the shirt to polish it, inviting the fans to believe in miracles, beatingbest Espanyol in a decade. And with ten men for 88 minutes, many of whom played for two (Marcelo, Cristiano, Xabi and Pepe), shot 20 times.

Florentino Perez came two minutes before the break and a Cup less. One misfortune after another. Because swallowed the defeat of basketball and missed a first half o value and fight, with Real Madrid that does not surrender, all nerve and heart, as it is said in its anthem.

Iker Casillas was sent of for marginally kicking Callejon on his right foot as he tried to clear the ball right outside the box. Other teams would have deflated following such a decision, but Real Madrid pulled rank and doubled their efforts to win.

Di Maria had to come off for goalkeeper Antonio Adan, who made his First Division debut tonight. Khedira soon had two chances to score the opener. Marcelo would net the only strike in the evening from a fantastic shot near the left post, after being assisted by Ronaldo (24'). Adebayor then had a chance to seal the match on the 39-minute mark, but his lobbed shot hit the crossbar.

After the break, Madrid became a cheaper and more tired. Oxygen tanks would have admitted at times. Especially when Callejón hung a goal on three occasions. But it also had an answer. Cristiano accelerator was not available to the defense of Pochettino.

The Whites continued to have most of the chances on goal in the game. Adebayor came close to netting a second strike twice more, but Kameni defeated him on both counts. Espanyol didn't have many chances, but Adan proved to be a solid keeper, clearing all the shots that were on target.

Real Madrid made a great impression and took three very important points that keep them five points behind the leaders. They will now concentrate on defeating Levante next week at the Bernabeu.

Summary

Stadium: Cornella-El Prat

Attendance: 40,240

Goals: 0-1 min.24 Marcelo

Karanka: "Every game is vital for us"

Aitor Karanka

Are you addressing the match as a final?

"Every game is vital for us, especially now that we are eight points behind the leaders. Our match against Espanyol is just another game we'll have to win because they are all important."

Do you have decided on the lineup?
"We have been talking about this all week, but we're not going to say it to the players before the match."

Among the potential players may be Pepe?
"The coach has already said how important Pepe is to the team. He's been training all week and is ready to help."

Do Adebayor and Karim put you in problems?
"We are delighted about the arrival of Emmanuel. He's done a lot in very little time and that's good for all of us. He has bonded wonderfully well with the squad and he's always smiling. Benzema was playing marvelously well before he arrived. Competition is bringing out the best in them, and that is obviously good for the team."

It is a problem for players to play with the national teams on Wednesday?
"We are happy because all our internationals returned in good form and are ready to play. Our men are proud to play for their countries and they have to represent them when needed."

It seems that Mourinho is more interested for the Champions than the League with this trip to Lyon...
"Our coach has a different working method. He is used to going to see a game of a future opponent, but he knows tomorrow's match is currently the most important fixture for us, and he will be there. It may seem surprising over here, but he's used to doing this. He is happy with the staff that helps him to prepare for games and to analyse rivals. Even our players are surprised by the amount of information they receive on opponents."

Preview: Espanyol vs Real Madrid

When Mourinho arrived at Saint-Étienne to see Olympique Lyon, a gesture interpreted as early surrender, it was discovered that Barcelona is not immortal, that Madrid is still incumbent upon the league, that Sporting with the starters is better without them and that Preciado (Sporting coach) is not a friend of Guardiola as the Portuguese suspected. So Espanyol - Real Madrid has become important match because Madrid back again to see the Barça. Today may be five points behind leader. Is it about football that can take anyone by surprise.

In Real Madrid, Pepe goes back. Good news: "With him the team has better pressing, he creates more danger, recovers better... " said Mourinho. But Madrid will need more to stay alive. Kaka will be back on the bench. Benzema and Adebayor do not fit in the starter team. Emmanuel will win if Mou checks accounts. Togo player scores a goal per hour and has speed of sound in the game. Benzema scores a goal per 149 minutes and is one of the 13 affected by the FIFA virus, which leaves low energies.

Espanyol have won eight of their 10 home games in the championship this season and aspire to qualify to play in a European competition next year. Real Madrid were the first side to win an official game at Cornella-El Prat just over a year ago. The venue will be packed, but the Madridistas have proven to pull rank in the face of adversity. Mourinho has included the recently recovered Dudek on his squad list, as well as Sergio Ramos, who was suspended last week.

Espanyol are having a solid season and are currently comfortably placed in Europa League qualifying positions. Sergio Garcia and Joan Verdu have recovered from gastroenteritis in time for the game. Baena, who missed last week's game due to an injury, will also make it. But Espanyol will not be the best possible. Dídac and Victor departed for Italy (to make money) and Osvaldo, De la Peña and David Garcia are broken. The result; two consecutive defeats.

The duel comes after a summit about abuse and the dangers of football, to find out who was hitted more and with worse intentions. The discussion was between Cristiano and Messi, but Callejón (Espanyol striker) finished winning. Today the statistic will move little because the referee is Mateu Lahoz who sometimes swallows the whistle. That's going to Mourinho and not raise too many complaints in Pochettino. At least the day before.

Interview: Mesut Özil

Mesut Ozil has done nothing short of dazzle Madridistas since joining the club over the summer. The German international has kept his eyes on the prize all season and wants nothing to come between him and success at Real Madrid. In order for that to happen, he takes each match as it comes, the next being against Espanyol on Sunday.

Mesut Özil

Real Madrid face Espanyol this weekend in Barcelona. What do you expect from the game?
It's definitely going to be very difficult. Every team that plays Real Madrid tries their very hardest to beat us. They put in an extra effort but we need to just stick to our game and try to score goals. I'm certain that if we do that we can win the game.

Espanyol are difficult to play at their home ground.They're sitting sixth in the table and obviously not having problems scoring goals. How are you going to approach the game?
Our main goal is to pick up three points despite the fact that they're a tough side. We have plenty of great players in the squad so if we stick to what we know best then we can win the game.

Cristiano Ronaldo is top scorer and you appear to have a great relationship with him on and off the pitch. Can you explain that understanding that you have? Is it instinct?
It's very clear to everybody that we have a great relationship. He has been very good to me and has helped me a lot since I arrived in Madrid - he's a fantastic person! Cristiano Ronaldo is a very important member of the team, he has scored plenty of goals and puts all his energy into the team winning games. I'm absolutely delighted that I play alongside him.

You and Sami Khedira also have a great friendship. You're obviously both German. Has he helped you settle in quicker in Madrid?
It definitely made the transition a lot easier because he was already here when I arrived in Madrid. We already knew each other from our time on the Germany national team and he's been a great support. We spend a lot of time together and I feel very lucky to have him here.

You've made 12 assists and scored nine goals this season. You appear to enjoy being an assists man. Is that something you agree with?
I would say I really enjoy scoring goals and also making assists. They're both equally satisfying for me and I'm always over the moon when I can help a teammate find the back of the net.

We saw you kiss the club crest several weeks ago. What does Real Madrid mean for you? That was a very important moment for Madridistas.
I play for Real Madrid and I feel very connected to this club. I am a part of this team and I wanted to express my happiness at being here. I didn't plan it, it just happened.

Link

Adebayor or Benzema: Mourinho decides

Real Madrid has 11 days and three crucial matches ahead: Espanyol (tomorrow), Levante (Saturday 19) and Lyon (Tuesday, 22 February). Mourinho who studies everything in detail, has a dilemma for the first: Adebayor or Benzema. The Portuguese explained the unexpected presence of Adebayor in the starting team in the last league match against Real Sociedad, for reasons of timing: "Karim played in Cup and Wednesday had a pressure game against Brazil where he played 90 minutes. We decided by Adebayor and he demonstrated why is here. We are happy with both. It's the perfect situation".

Adebayor and Benzema

Real Madrid coach now appreciates the consequences of fielding one or the other. The Frenchman has played a great match for his national team (88 minutes, goal) and Adebayor made very good feeling in front of the Real Sociedad (goal) . In addition, Emmanuel is in better condition because he takes training with the group in Valdebebas since last Wednesday, unlike Benzema who arrived on Thursday and only made recovery training. When everyone thinks that 6 has unseated Karim, Mourinho ponders a surprise again with Benzema. The Portuguese want to get him back to the war at a key moment of the season.

Mou is happy with his new 9, but thinks that if Benzema feels like alternate, he will be unmotivated. Zidane's report after the France-Brazil, adviser of the Portuguese in the locker room, has been very good and has to reflect on Mourinho. It keeps the dilemma and he does not displease Karim option.

On the other hand, when in England all spoke of the interest from Liverpool and Arsenal to sign Karim Benzema, yesterday a new club appeared; Tottenham, ready to get into the bidding for the French striker. Many British media said it yesterday. The Spurs, who have money, wanted to sign a striker this winter. They bid for Aguero, Llorente, Negredo and Rossi. None of them came and now the target is Benzema. Tottenham needs a striker and the London club's interest in Benzema is long. They have to wait until summer.