Real Madrid want David Luiz to play full back

David Luiz has started to be linked with other clubs. It’s only taken a few weeks after he was first dropped, but with a World Cup on the way, it could be a busy January. Among the teams linked with the Brazilian are Real Madrid, surprisingly, in this piece in the Daily Mail.

It’s pretty standard pre-transfer window nonsense. But there is one fresh line in there.

Mentioning that Real Madrid want to use David Luiz as cover in a variety of positions, the author notes that Luiz “can operate as a centre back or as a defensive midfielder and provide cover at full back.”

While we’ve seen him in midfield at Chelsea, full back is a new one. Although given he’s struggling to break into the team at Stamford Bridge ahead of Andreas Christensen right now, perhaps that’s something we could try? It’s not like we’ve got any other cover for Marcos Alonso, and the further Luiz gets up the pitch the more he seems to enjoy himself.

He’s even good in the air, so Conte could aim the team’s goal kicks onto his head.

Read More: http://www.chelsea-news.co/2017/11/real-madrid-want-david-luiz-play-full-back/

Not so great Cristiano Ronaldo sculpture gets a much better version

Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo sure has a nice face, but you wouldn't figure that from the bust that was made in his honour earlier this year.

Created by artist Emmanuel Santos, the errant bust was unveiled in the Madeira Islands, Portugal back in March, and bears Ronaldo's name as the country is his birthplace.

Quickly becoming a source of ridicule and plenty of Photoshop, at least now Ronaldo can finally confide in a bust that actually looks like him.

This one was unveiled Saturday at the museum in Santiago Bernabeu, Real Madrid's home stadium, and it's much, much, much better.

Read More: http://mashable.com/2017/11/28/cristiano-ronaldo-bust-improved/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Mashable+%28Mashable%29#pay_Y_H7ZgqL

Chelsea target “further than ever” from a new contract as Blues move in on potential free transfer

A few weeks ago Chelsea were named as one of the suitors of young Athletic Bilbao keeper Kepa.

The youngster has broken into the first team in the Basque Country, and is attracting the attentions of Real Madrid too.

He’s even an outside tip to beat out Pepe Reina to go to the World Cup as third choice.

His contract expires in the summer, so clubs from outside Spain can get the jump on the Spanish champions and start negotiating a Bosman move with the youngster from January.

Now according to flagship Spanish football gossip show El Chiringuito, “the stances of Kepa and Athletic are further apart than ever” with regards to his new deal.

Read More: http://www.chelsea-news.co/2017/11/chelsea-target-ever-new-contract-blues-move-potential-free-transfer/

Ronaldo's super agent scores with €26m profit

Pre-tax profits at the Irish branch of the football super agency Gestifute, which represents Cristiano Ronaldo, last year soared by 26.7pc to €25.97m.
New accounts filed by Gestifute International show it enjoyed soaring pre-tax profits after its operating profit climbed from €20.5m to €25.73m.
The Dublin firm paid €20m during the year in dividends to its shareholders and this followed the company paying out €12m in dividends in 2015 and €6m in 2014.

Gestifute was founded by super agent, Jorge Mendes who represents Ronaldo (pictured) along with Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho and a host of other international players. The Irish company's principle activity is providing consultancy and marketing services to professional sports people and sporting organisations.
The directors state that the results for the year were considered satisfactory.

Gestifute International had accumulated profits of €16.53m while its cash pile soared from €202,986 to €7.22m.
The accounts show that the firm's tax bill for 2016 totalled €3.28m arising from Ireland's competitive 12.5pc corporate tax rate.

The company's controlling party is Start SGPS, a Portuguese-registered firm that is Mendes's holding company for his businesses in sport.
The accounts show that one of the Dublin company's Irish directors, consultant Liam Grainger, resigned in April of this year.

Read More: https://www.independent.ie/business/irish/ronaldos-super-agent-scores-with-26m-profit-36358401.html

What Lionel Messi said to referee after controversial Barcelona no-goal against Valencia

Barcelona star Lionel Messi was denied a goal in the 1-1 draw with Valencia at the Mestalla over the weekend, with replays showing his effort had clearly crossed the line.

Such was the controversy caused by the incident, it’s still being discussed days later, as it could have allowed the Catalan giants to open up a more commanding lead at the top of the La Liga table.

Instead, despite Valencia goalkeeper Neto spilling Messi’s effort over the line, as seen in the image below, the goal wasn’t given and the two sides played out a draw as Messi was left to remonstrate with the officials but to no avail.

Mundo Deportivo claim to have discovered what the Argentine international told the officials, specifically referee Ignacio Iglesias, with the report noting that he told him: “You are wrong, now you are going to see it”.

Read More: http://www.caughtoffside.com/2017/11/28/what-lionel-messi-said-to-referee-after-controversial-barcelona-no-goal-against-valencia/

Cristiano Ronaldo gets a new bust that actually looks like him

The original bust, which was commissioned to commemorate an airport being renamed after him, depicts Ronaldo, equally famous for his handsome looks than his football skills, with an awkward grin and unevenly plump cheeks.

One social media user even likened it to the character Sloth from the film 'The Goonies'.

But fans of the Real Madrid hero were far more receptive of the new bust, which was unveiled at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid over the weekend.

If anything the statue, designed by famous Spanish sculptor Jose Antonio Navarro Arteaga, could be accused of going too far the other way and making Ronaldo look too handsome.

Read More: http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/sport/football/99322941/

European Paper Talk: Barcelona plan cut-price January move for Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil

The transfer window does not open until January 1, but clubs across Europe are busy planning and contacting the players they hope to sign.

Our friends at Football Whispers have scoured the European newspapers and websites to bring you the latest transfer gossip and news from the continent.

Spain

Barcelona are accelerating their plans to sign Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil. The Germany international is out of contract in the summer and could be sold for a cut-price in January with the Gunners wary of losing a player of his quality for free. Barcelona are frontrunners for his signature, with Ozil open to the idea of playing at the Camp Nou despite spending three years at their bitter rivals Real Madrid. The 29-year-old is also thought to be a Manchester United transfer target after working with Jose Mourinho in Spain. (Mundo Deportivo)

Real Madrid will revive their long-standing interest in Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea with a €70m (£62m) bid. De Gea has been the subject of Real Madrid transfer rumours for years and came close to signing for the Spanish giants in 2015, until the deal fell through.

Source: http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/11136875/european-paper-talk-barcelona-plan-january-move-for-arsenals-mesut-ozil

Paper Talk: England trio reveal golden generation’s fatal flaws, Ronaldo’s new bust, Balotelli’s City surprise

WHY ENGLAND’S GOLDEN GENERATION FAILED

At the peak of their powers, Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard were among the best players in the world at their respective clubs.

However, when it came to performing for England, the Three Lions’ ‘golden generation’ failed to live to the hype.

In a revealing interview with BT Sport, the trio explained how their competitiveness at club level, issues with formation, and problems with managers thwarted England’s performances on the international stage.

CRISTIANO RONALDO’S NEW BUST

A new bust of Cristiano Ronaldo has been unveiled by Spanish sculptor Jose Antonio Navarro Arteaga.

Artist Emanuel Santos was panned for his original bronze bust of the 32-year-old at the renaming of an airport in Madeira.

However, the new work of the Real Madrid star has received great acclaim. The bust is 35-inch-high, weighs 9.5 stone and has an uncanny likeness to the Portuguese captain.

Jose Antonio told Spanish daily El Mundo: “I used several photos of Cristiano to work from.”

“What I wanted to reflect was his interior strength, when he was preparing to take a free kick or a corner.”

Read More: https://www.foxsports.com.au/football/world-cup/paper-talk-england-trio-reveal-golden-generations-fatal-flaws-ronaldos-new-bust-balotellis-city-surprise/news-story/f2399fbfeeac540e238bed07e147eb54

La Liga: Valencia Hold Barcelona Amid Lionel Messi Ghost Goal Controversy

Jordi Alba's late equaliser maintained Barcelona's four-point lead over Valencia at the top of La Liga in a 1-1 draw at Mestalla on Sunday overshadowed by the league's lack of goal line technology. Lionel Messi's first-half effort clearly crossed the line, but wasn't allowed to stand as, unlike other major European leagues, La Liga has refused to introduce the technology on cost grounds. Rodrigo's opener on the hour mark rubbed salt into Barca's wounds, but the visitors responded when Messi picked out Alba eight minutes from time to ensure both sides remain unbeaten in La Liga.
However, just a second slip up from Barca this season does allow Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid to close to within eight points of the leaders.
"It was a monumental error by the referee," Alba told Movistar.
"Even I could see it was in from the middle of the pitch. We saw the replay at half-time and it's clear."
La Liga does, though, intend to introduce video assistant refereeing (VAR) for controversial decisions next season.

Read More: https://sports.ndtv.com/cricket/la-liga-valencia-hold-barcelona-amid-lionel-messi-ghost-goal-controversy-1780362

Unsure of friendship with Cristiano Ronaldo: Lionel Messi

Barcelona star forward Lionel Messi claimed that he is unsure of his friendship with leading footballer Cristiano Ronaldo in the coming years.

The Argentine and Portuguese international share nine Ballon d’Or awards amongst themselves.

“I don’t know if we will be. Friendship is built through spending time together and getting to know each other,” the 30-year-old was quoted saying by Spanish website Marca on Saturday.

ALSO READ: Lionel Messi extends contract with Barcelona until June 2021

“We have no relationship, mainly because we only see each other at awards ceremonies and that’s the only time we speak. Everything is fine, but our lives don’t cross over very often,” Messi added.

The four-time European Golden Shoe holder also said promising youngsters Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and experienced striker Luis Suarez have the potential to win the Ballon d’Or in the coming years.

Read More: http://www.thestatesman.com/sports/unsure-of-friendship-with-ronaldo-messi-1502535272.html

Real Madrid star begs Ozil not to join Barcelona from Arsenal

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos is claimed to have pleaded with Mesut Ozil not to join Spanish giants Barcelona from Arsenal.

The Catalan giants are claimed to be keen on signing the German international, having been put off by first-choice target Philippe Coutinho’s Liverpool price-tag.

Ozil is out of contract come the end of the campaign and will be allowed to discuss terms over a potential free transfer from January, and Barcelona seem to be one of few options he remains keen on.

Manchester United are also strongly linked with his potential capture next summer, which would see him team up with manager Jose Mourinho once again, having worked under the Portuguese in the Bernabeu previously.

Former team-mate Sergio Ramos has urged his former colleague to snub the advances of Barca, with the Spaniard claimed to have called his counterpart in order to put him off betraying his former club Real Madrid.

Interestingly Ramos is believed to have stuck up for the midfielder in the dressing room when coming under scrutiny by Jose Mourinho, and the latter is who he could well be pushing for him to join.

Ozil has refused to rule out the possibility of extending his stay with our club, but many are refusing to be drawn into such a possibility as his departure remains the most likely outcome.

Alexis Sanchez and Jack Wilshere are also in similar spots with their contracts also running out this summer, but the Chilean appears more certain to leave, while the England international has insisted that he wishes to sign a new deal with the club.

Would Ozil be put off a move to Barcelona due to his previous allegiance to Sergio Ramos and Real Madrid?

Read More:http://www.justarsenal.com/real-madrid-star-begs-ozil-not-to-join-barcelona-from-arsenal/83175

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen tops Sky Sports La Liga Power Rankings

Barcelona 'keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen has topped the Sky Sports La Liga Power Rankings ahead of Valencia stopper Neto.

The German international made seven saves and kept his eighth clean sheet in the league during a 3-0 win at Leganes on Saturday to help Barca maintain their four-point lead atop La Liga.Valencia held their runners-up spot after beating Espanyol 1-0, with 'keeper Neto making four saves to keep his sixth league clean sheet this term and midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia (No 4, up 33 places) netting the winner.

Neto and Ter Stegen will come head to head at the Mestalla Stadium live on Sky Sports Football from 7.40pm on Sunday, with Valencia looking to move within one point of Ernesto Valverde's side.

Source: http://www.skysports.com/football/news/12040/11137016/barcelona-goalkeeper-marc-andre-ter-stegen-tops-sky-sports-la-liga-power-rankings

Antoine Griezmann insists he does not regret Atletico Madrid stay

Antoine Griezmann insists he does not regret staying at Atletico Madrid, and says he has had no discussions about leaving the club in January.

The Frenchman has been constantly linked with a move away from Diego Simeone's side, who are 10 points off La Liga leaders Barcelona and are on the brink of exiting the Champions League at the group stages.

Sky Sports' Guillem Balague said in his weekly column that Atletico are preparing for Griezmann's summer exit, with Barcelona and Manchester United heavily linked, but the 26-year-old has said he hasn't regretted staying at Atletico for this season.

He told French TV channel Telefoot: "I do not regret having stayed at Atletico. It was my choice, I am happy with my choice, even though I have gone seven games without scoring. I will score again soon."

Asked if he had discussed a potential January exit with anyone at Atletico, Griezmann added: "No. In addition, Diego Costa and Vitolo will come, so we'll try to keep the team high enough. These two reinforcements will do us good. An exit agreement? I did not speak about that with the president."

Source: http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11838/11136467/antoine-griezmann-insists-he-does-not-regret-atletico-madrid-stay

Win a trip to see El Clasico by guessing Guillem Balague's all-time Real Madrid XI!

Fancy going to El Clasico in 2018? For the chance to win, try to guess Guillem Balague's all-time Real Madrid top XI.

From Puskas to Ronaldo, Real Madrid - Europe's most decorated club - has been the home of some of the world's greatest players, but who are the greatest eleven?

If you can match the selection of Sky Sports' Spanish football expert you'll be entered into the prize draw for the chance to see Real Madrid take on Barcelona at the Nou Camp in May - a showdown that could be a crucial title decider!

The winner will receive the following prize:

• Return flights to Barcelona including transfers
• 2 nights' hotel accommodation in Barcelona
• 2 tickets to Real Madrid v Barcelona on May 6, 2018

The closing date is 23:59 on December 31, 2017.

Full terms and conditions can be found on www.skysports.com/top11

Source: http://www.skysports.com/football/news/20876/11135288/win-a-trip-to-see-el-clasico-by-guessing-guillem-balagues-all-time-real-madrid-xi

Alvaro Morata the elephant in the room at Real Madrid, says Terry Gibson

Alvaro Morata is the "elephant in the room" and solution to Real Madrid's continual struggles in front of goal this season, according to Sky Sports' La Liga expert Terry Gibson.

Zinedine Zidane's side drew a blank in the Madrid derby against Atletico at the Wanda Metropolitano on Saturday night to slip 10 points behind leaders Barcelona.

Meanwhile, Morata's goal and assist for Chelsea in the 4-0 win over West Brom means that he has been involved in 12 goals in his first 11 Premier League games - a record by any Chelsea player in the competition's history.

"Morata is the elephant in the room for Real Madrid," Gibson said on the La Liga Weekly podcast. "He's five years younger than (Karim) Benzema, was in better form last season and should've got more games.

"(Cristiano) Ronaldo is 32, so they'll have to be in the market soon for another centre forward. There's a lack of movement from the front pair, and most of Ronaldo's goals in the last couple of season have been one-touch finishes.

"At the moment it doesn't seem to be suiting him with his back to goal. All the goals he scored, he was the final piece of the jigsaw, supplied service by a fantastic pass.

"His finishing is very direct and reliant on power as the last part of the puzzle. I just wonder now if he's not entirely comfortable with his back to goal, and whether it might be an idea to put him back onto the left and change the system slightly.

Sevilla head coach Eduardo Berizzo diagnosed with cancer

Eduardo Berizzo has been diagnosed with cancer, and reportedly told his Sevilla players at half-time of their remarkable 3-3 draw against Liverpool on Tuesday.

The Reds looked to be heading for a comfortable win in their Champions League Group C clash as two goals from Roberto Firmino and one from Sadio Mane put them 3-0 ahead.

However, Sevilla battled back in the second half and claimed a 3-3 draw, with Guido Pizarro scoring an injury-time equaliser.

Sevilla players ran to celebrate with Berizzo after the goal, and it has been reported in the Spanish media that the head coach told his players at half-time that he has prostate cancer.

Berizzo, 48, made no statement on his health when speaking after the win, however, Sevilla confirmed the news on Wednesday morning.

The club said in a statement: "The medical services of Sevilla FC report that the coach of the first team, Eduardo Berizzo, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

"Future examinations will decide what steps to follow regarding the treatment. Sevilla FC wants to show their maximum support to their coach at this time and wishes him a speedy recovery."

Several Sevilla players had hailed Berizzo's powers of motivation to orchestrate their second-half fightback.

Source: http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11834/11138405/sevilla-head-coach-eduardo-berizzo-diagnosed-with-cancer

Sky Sports La Liga Power Rankings' best XI this season

Which players would make the best La Liga XI so far this season? We've used the Sky Sports Power Rankings to work it out...

Barcelona have won 11 of their 12 league fixtures this season, only dropping points during a 1-1 draw at Atletico Madrid in October.

However, reigning domestic and European champions Real Madrid are languishing 10 points adrift in third spot, and it's Valencia piling pressure on Barca in the runners-up spot.

But would any of Real's under-performing Galacticos make the best La Liga XI so far this season? We used the stats-based Sky Sports Power Rankingsto find out...

DEFENCE
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Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen topped the Power Rankings this week and claims his place between the sticks with eight clean sheets and 34 saves - conceding only four goals.

Source: http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11827/11138529/sky-sports-la-liga-power-rankings-best-xi-this-season

European Paper Talk: Gareth Bale facing summer axe by Real Madrid

The transfer window does not open until January 1, but clubs across Europe are busy planning and contacting the players they hope to sign.

Our friends at Football Whispers have scoured the European newspapers and websites to bring you the latest transfer gossip and news from the continent.

SPAIN

Gareth Bale is one of eight Real Madrid players who could be axed next summer. The reigning Spanish and European champions have endured a difficult start to the campaign, and the Welshman's injury struggles mean he could be let go in a squad refresh along with Lucas Vazquez, Dani Ceballos, Marcos Llorente, Kiko Casilla, Achraf Hakimi, Jesus Vallejo and Luka Modric. (Diario Gol)

Chelsea transfer target Marco Asensio has spoken out about his lack of a regular starting berth at Real Madrid, saying his situation is unlike Alvaro Morata's prior to the striker's summer departure for Chelsea.

"When [Morata] returned to Madrid…game time for him was important," he said. "I am only starting out my career, I'm a 21-year-old and cannot expect to be playing every match." (Marca)

Ivan Rakitic hopeful Lionel Messi will stay at Barcelona

Ivan Rakitic is optimistic Lionel Messi will remain at Barcelona beyond next summer despite speculation over his future rumbling on.

The Argentina forward agreed a new deal until 2021 with the Nou Camp club in July but did not sign paperwork at first.

La Liga's president Javier Tebas claimed earlier this month a contract has now been signed, although questions remain over whether that is the case.

Rakitic, speaking at a news conference ahead of Barcelona's Champions League meeting with Juventus, said he wants to keep playing alongside Messi for the next few years.

He said: "Leo's part of the club's badge. I am confident he will stay. He is not just a very important player, he is more than that, looking at his career, how much he means for Barca.

Source: http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11833/11138508/ivan-rakitic-hopeful-lionel-messi-will-stay-at-barcelona

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European Paper Talk: Tottenham duo Harry Kane and Dele Alli top Real Madrid wishlist

The transfer window does not open until January 1, but clubs across Europe are busy planning and contacting the players they hope to sign.

Our friends at Football Whispers have scoured the European newspapers and websites to bring you the latest transfer gossip and news from the continent.

Spain

Tottenham duo Harry Kane and Dele Alli are at the head of a five-man Real Madrid wishlist, with president Florentino Perez determined to make a significant splash in the summer transfer window.

The Spurs pair have caught the eye for Mauricio Pochettino's side, with Alli instrumental in downing Madrid when the sides met in the Champions League at Wembley recently.

Kane has recently said he would like to spend his whole career at Spurs, though, while there is no suggestion that Alli is angling for a move away. (Diario Gol)

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone believes his side can still qualify for the Champions League last 16. Los Rojiblancos beat Roma 2-0 on Wednesday night to keep their hopes alive and now need to overcome Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and hope that Qarabag can take a point off Roma when they travel to the Stadio Olimpico.

Source: http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/11139732/european-paper-talk-tottenham-duo-harry-kane-and-dele-alli-top-real-madrid-wishlist

Griezmann: I don't regret staying at Atletico

Antoine Griezmann is happy he stayed at Atletico Madrid despite his struggles this season.

Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann insists he has no regrets over his decision to stay at the LaLiga club, and he ruled out a January exit.
The France international was linked to Manchester United in the off-season, but ended up staying at Atletico due to the club's transfer ban.
Despite scoring just three goals in 14 games in all competitions this campaign, Griezmann said he was still happy with his choice to stay at Atletico.
"I don't regret staying. It was my choice," the 26-year-old told Telefoot.

"I'm happy with my choice, even if I've gone seven games without scoring. It will come back."
Griezmann is now being linked to Barcelona, who are flying high with a four-point lead atop LaLiga.
Atletico are also unbeaten through 12 league games but six of those have been draws to leave them in fourth, 10 points back.
Griezmann said the arrivals of Diego Costa and Vitolo in January would boost Diego Simeone's men.


Read more: https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/griezmann-i-dont-regret-staying-atletico

Barcelona Transfer News: Latest on Antoine Griezmann, Inigo Martinez Rumours

Atletico Madrid are reportedly already putting plans in place for Antoine Griezmann’s exit next summer, with Barcelona said to be keen on signing the forward.

Griezmann was linked with a possible exit throughout the summer window, though he eventually remained in the Spanish capital. But according to Sky Sports’ Spanish football columnist Guillem Balague, Atletico are resigned to the fact he’ll move on at the end of the season.

"Having said no to a huge offer from United after he had spoken to Jose Mourinho, he will now consider those possibilities," Balague wrote. "PSG, meanwhile, will need to sell first, but they have also made some enquiries about his interest in joining them. Nothing has been signed at the moment with anybody, I'm told, but the club feel he will leave."

Read More: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2745282-barcelona-transfer-news-latest-on-antoine-griezmann-inigo-martinez-rumours

Cristiano Ronaldo wants to leave Real Madrid, four marquee names considered claims Spanish football expert

• Real Madrid have faltered so far this season as they risk real disappointment
• Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly wants to leave the club
• Portuguese international has struggled on the pitch

Things aren’t going well for Real Madrid so far this season, and Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly isn’t a happy man amid their struggles.

Aside from the fact that they’ve slipped 10 points adrift of Barcelona in the La Liga title race, they’re at risk of missing out on top spot in Group H of the Champions League.

In turn, with some poor results to analyse so far this season already, Zinedine Zidane needs to find the solutions in order to avoid it becoming a more difficult situation.

As for Ronaldo, the 32-year-old has scored just eight goals in 14 appearances so far this season, which for him, is arguably somewhat of a crisis, especially when considering he’s found the back of the net just once in eight La Liga outings having been so prolific over the last six years.

Read More: http://www.caughtoffside.com/2017/11/21/cristiano-ronaldo-wants-to-leave-real-madrid-four-marquee-names-considered-claims-spanish-football-expert/

Real Madrid announce squad for Champions League match against APOEL

Real Madrid published their squad list for Tuesday’s away match against APOEL in the UEFA Champions League.

REAL MADRID SQUAD:

Goalkepers: Casilla and Moha.

Defenders: Carvajal, Vallejo, Varane, Nacho, Marcelo, Theo and Achraf.

Midfielders: Kroos, Modric, Casemiro, M. Llorente, Asensio, Isco and Ceballos.

Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema, Lucas Vázquez and Mayoral.

As expected, Sergio Ramos will not be available. The Spanish defender will need around a week to recover from his broken nose and then he will wear a mask during the games.

Kovacic still isn’t ready either and might be aiming at next weekend’s home game against Malaga for his return after a big groin injury which has kept him out of the team for the last two months.

Coach Zinedine Zidane might decide to make some rotations in this one and players like Ceballos, Marcos Llorente or Theo will surely be looking forward to getting a chance of proving their worth.

Read More: https://www.managingmadrid.com/2017/11/20/16678496/real-madrid-apoel-squad-list-2017-champions-league

Real Madrid star points finger at Ronaldo, Zidane for struggles

Real Madrid star Karim Benzema has reportedly had enough of being blamed for his club’s problems in front of goal this season and has pointed the finger elsewhere.

The reigning La Liga champions drew another black as they were held to a goalless draw at city rivals Atletico on Saturday night.

And after feeling that too much of the blame was being put on him, Diario Gol claims that the Frenchman let his frustrations be known to Real president Florentino Perez over Cristiano Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane’s roles in what has been a tough start to the season.

The weekend result sees Real sitting 10 points behind leaders Barcelona, a difference that will be almost impossible to make up.

Benzema, who was hauled off with 14 minutes to go against Atletico, reportedly feels that he would get more joy if Ronaldo wasn’t continually running into spaces that he should be occupying.

The 29-year-old is also said to feel that Real coach Zidane is indulging Ronaldo because of his star status within the team.

The report goes on to state that the former Lyon hitman, who has scored 182 goals in 378 appearances for Real, could also look to move on if things don’t change quickly at The Bernabeu.

Read More: http://www.teamtalk.com/news/real-madrid-star-points-finger-at-ronaldo-zidane-for-struggles

Real Madrid waging war on refs as they "blame La Liga officials for being 10 points behind Barcelona"

Real Madrid are waging war on La Liga referees, according to reports in Spain.

Mundo Deportivo claim that Los Blancos are furious with the way they've been officiated this season, in a gripe that goes way back to Cristiano Ronaldo's five-match ban he picked up in the Spanish Super Cup.

Ronaldo was banned and fined €3,000 for pushing ref Ricardo De Burgos against Barcelona in Spanish football's traditional curtain-rasier, and reports claim that Real have been suffering at the hands of officials ever since.

The latest incidents came in Saturday's goalless Madrid derby , in which Real reportedly felt that they deserved at least three penalties from referee David Fernandez and that Atletico should have had two men sent off.

Read More: http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/real-madrid-waging-war-refs-11551792

Real Madrid Boss Zinedine Zidane Is Wrong To Persist With Cristiano Ronaldo And Karim Benzema

Invariably, the big-name players at any club are always handed a little longer to get their act together when they’re not doing the business. It might not be fair, but it’s just the way it is.
Nowhere else is there a better reflection of this than at Real Madrid, where both Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo are enduring their poorest campaigns since they signed for the club in 2009.
Though the Frenchman has been the subject of boos and whistles from the Santiago Bernabeu crowd, Ronaldo should really be looking over his shoulder too.

A player that wasn’t long ago crowned FIFA’s ‘The Best’ and who is odds-on to win another Ballon d’Or, the Portuguese has had more than 50 shots on goal in La Liga and scored just once.
His 1.8% conversion rate is actually the worst in Europe’s top five leagues.
It makes a mockery of Zinedine Zidane’s claim that both players are, for all intents and purposes, ‘untouchable.’

Read More: https://www.thesportsman.com/articles/real-madrid-boss-zinedine-zidane-is-wrong-to-persist-with-cristiano-ronaldo-and-karim-benzema

REPORT: WILSHERE IN SHOCK MOVE TO LA LIGA

Real Betis are closing in on a shock move for Jack Wilshere in January, reports claim.

Wilshere, who has entered the final year of his £90,000-a-week deal with Arsenal is yet to open talks with the club over a new contract.

The midfielder has been linked with moves to West Ham and to Newcastle, but Real Betis have emerged as favourites for his signature.

The Sun say Betis have made contact with the 25 year-old and his representatives, with the player interested in a move to La Liga either in January or on a free next summer.

The side based in Seville are going well this season and currently sit eight in the Spanish top division.

Arsenal are said to be waiting on Wilshere to prove his fitness before offering him a new deal and Arsene Wenger is hoping to convince the midfielder his future is in North London.

The Gunners academy graduate continues to be left out by England boss Gareth Southgate and may decide his future lies elsewhere if he wants to make the World Cup squad next summer.

Read More: https://arsenal-mania.com/report-wilshere-in-shock-move-to-la-liga/

Neymar welcome at Real Madrid: Casemiro

Neymar had joined French football club Paris Saint-Germain at a record amount of £200 million ($262m) earlier this season.

Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro on Wednesday asserted that his Brazilian international team-mate Neymar is a star player and is always welcome to join the Spanish giants.

“He’s (Neymar) a star. He knows what he’s doing,” the 25-year-old was quoted as saying by Sky Sports.

“He’s a great player and he’ll always be welcome at Real Madrid. I hope he comes, but he’s happy at his club,” Casemiro added.

Neymar had joined French football club Paris Saint-Germain at a record amount of £200 million ($262m) earlier this season.

Since then, he has made eight appearances for the side, scoring seven goals.

Read More: http://www.thestatesman.com/sports/neymar-welcome-real-madrid-casemiro-1502528732.html

Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos: Real Madrid pair fall-out due to dressing room tension

CRISTIANO RONALDO and Sergio Ramos are not seeing eye to eye as Real Madrid continue to struggle.

Zinedine Zidane's men have endured a poor start to the season and currently trail rivals Barcelona by eight points.

As well as sorting out his side's form on the pitch, the Frenchman may now also need to settle a dressing room feud.

According to Marca, Ronaldo and Ramos aren't the best of friends at present, with the latter holding a lot of power in the Bernabeu dressing room.

The Spanish publication reports a shift in power has taken place behind the scenes at Madrid due to the players Zidane has let go.

Read More: https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/660330/Cristiano-Ronaldo-Sergio-Ramos-fall-out-Real-Madrid-dressing-room-tension

Euro Paper Talk: Arsenal open shock talks for £8m Man Utd star; Real Madrid in £550m triple swoop

Arsenal have set their sights on signing a Manchester United man, while Real Madrid are planning to break the bank on a £550m face-lift for their forward line, according to Wednesday’s European papers.



ARSENAL ENTER RACE TO SIGN MAROUANE FELLAINI

Arsenal are the surprise new suitors to sign Marouane Fellaini from Manchester United, according to reports on Wednesday.

The Belgian midfielder, out of contract at Old Trafford, at the end of the season, looks set to leave Old Trafford in January after failing to agree a new deal.

United are keen to retain the midfielder’s services, but it’s understood he has told them he wants to move on. As such, it’s claimed United have told interested parties that the fee for the player – a £27million signing from Everton in September 2013 – has been set for £8million.

That has, unsurprisingly, peaked plenty of clubs’ interest, though it was firmly expected a move to Besiktas would be on the offing after his twin brother was spotted in Istanbul holding talks with the Turkish club.

Read More: http://www.teamtalk.com/news/euro-paper-talk-arsenal-open-shock-talks-for-8m-man-utd-star-real-madrid-in-550m-triple-swoop

La Liga: Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos remains sceptical about Ronaldo’s future at Bernabeu

Adding more fuel to fire regarding Cristiano Ronaldo's possible move away from 12-times European Champions Real Madrid, Los Blancos captain Sergio Ramos has hinted that their charismatic forward might be seeking new challenges as he was unsure about the Portuguese captain's future in the Spanish capital. Here’s what Sergio Ramos said about Cristiano Ronaldo.

As the speculations regarding Cristiano Ronaldo of leaving Spanish giants Real Madrid are spreading like wildfire in the world of football, Los Merengues captain Sergio Ramos has expressed his uncertainty over Renaldo’s future at Madrid. Ramos, a prominent figure among the set of Real Madrid fans is also another easy target for Spanish media to capitalize on this concerning news as the Spanish defender was resentfully involved in the intriguing Cristiano Ronaldo situation. After news of Cristiano Ronaldo leaving Real Madrid took centre stage it became pretty obvious for Spanish media to reach out Real Madrid gaffer Zinedine Zidane and club captain Sergio Ramos.

https://youtu.be/7MVU65xdoJs

Read more: http://www.newsx.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-captain-sergio-ramos-remains-sceptical-about-ronaldos-future-at-bernabeu

Cristiano Ronaldo's future at Real Madrid is unclear after contract row… but does the superstar really want to leave next summer?

When Spanish television this week claimed that Cristiano Ronaldo had told Real Madrid he wants to leave the club on June 30 of 2018 after nine trophy-laden years, the story threw up more questions than answers.
Could he walk away? Where would he go? Is really so desperate to leave?
Sportsmail takes a look at how things could pan out.

What would the club's response be to Ronaldo demanding to leave in the summer?
Florentino Perez would probably wave a copy of his contract under his nose.
If Ronaldo wanted to be able to skip off into the sunset without a care, he probably shouldn't have signed a new deal until 2021 last year... the one with the £1bn buy-out clause.
It makes it impossible for him to force his way out as Neymar did last summer.

Why does it seem Ronaldo is angling for a new contract when he still has three years left on his existing one?
He'll be 36 when his current deal expires so the push for a new deal is unlikely to be about extending its length. This is about money not time.
It feels like a hangover from last summer when bad feeling over his tax case led Portuguese paper A Bola to suggest – with a well-sourced story – that his intention was not to play in Spain again.

Read More: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-5084905/Q-Cristiano-Ronaldo-future-Real-Madrid.html

Cristiano Ronaldo's girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez poses with baby Alana

Cristiano Ronaldo became a father for the fourth time earlier this week when his partner, Georgina Rodriguez, gave birth to a daughter in hospital in Madrid.

The Spanish model has since shared the first image of her with little Alana Martina Ronaldo on Instagram, cradling the newborn baby in her arms while surrounded by flowers and gifts from well-wishers.

"We are so happy and thankful to God for our healthy little Alana Martina, and of course, for our other three children, who I shower with hugs and kisses," Rodriguez said on Instagram.

"I wouldn't change this feeling for the world. I love my parents, I love my family. Thank you everyone!"

Read More: http://www.espn.in/football/blog/the-toe-poke/65/post/3271222/denmark-celebrate-world-cup-qualification-with-giant-beer-shower

Lionel Messi has penned Barcelona deal, claims La Liga president: 'If I have not been lied to, he has signed'

Lionel Messi has signed a new contract with Barcelona, according to La Liga president Javier Tebas.
A four-year deal has been on the table for the diminutive Argentinian since the summer, but while terms have been agreed, he has not yet signed the contract.
And with his contract expiring in the summer, there are growing concerns that the 30-year-old could walk away from the Nou Camp for nothing.

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu previously said Messi's father, his representative, had already signed the contract and it was just waiting for the player's signature.
But Tebas is convinced one of La Liga's most important players has already signed a new deal.
Speaking on Tuesday, Tebas said: 'Messi has a contract which has been renewed.
'Contracts are official when they are signed and not when it is announced that they have been signed.

Read More: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-5081565/Lionel-Messi-signed-Barcelona-deal-La-Liga-president.html