From what appeared to be a season stating their intent, the situation at Malaga has suddenly changed in the past few days. Reports have emerged over unpaid wages and transfer fees which could result in UEFA having to take firm action on the Champions League newcomers. Malaga could incur serious penalties and see players leave just as their illustrious world-conquering dream begins to take shape. Star player Santi Cazorla has been one of Los Boquerones to make his unhappiness known about the current situation has since been sold to Arsenal. A rumoured 30-40% of the players' wages have not been … [Read more...]
Osasuna Season Preview
It wouldn't take you too long to point out the standout games in Osasuna's season last year. Disappointingly, two heavy defeats to Real Madrid and Barcelona tarnish a campaign where Osasuna finished just behind Levante, duelling for European football. The drubbings stick in our minds as the lasting memories of the 2011/12 season for Osasuna but all we remember are the scintillating performances of Ronaldo and Messi. No one cares for Osasuna. Especially when a team so proudly express their desire to contest others with their widely-regarded brand of 'anti-football'. Why lean towards … [Read more...]
Sevilla Season Preview
Oh how tight the margins in football can be at times! Falling just short of Champions League qualification the previous season has setback Sevilla significantly and threatens to derail the perennial European challengers. Losing out to Villarreal meant Europa League football last season for the Andalucians but unexpectedly the club fell at the first hurdle. There's no shame in losing to Germans Hannover but failing to grasp the financial incentives which begin at the group stage proved to be the fatal loss. Consequently the exodus began. Zokora, Sanchez, … [Read more...]
Real Sociedad Season Preview
Media hype and excitement has been largely focused around two or three teams in the build up to the new La Liga season and that probably suits Sociedad. In fact if it could continue for the remainder of the season then I don't imagine hearing too many complaints from Philippe Montanier as his team aim to slip beneath the radar. Levante surprised us with their determined stance last season and it appears that Sociedad are well placed to follow in their path with a vibrant squad centred around an attacking quartet which could bring many admirers. … [Read more...]
Rayo Vallecano Season Preview
As the scoreboard at the Campo de Futbol de Vallecas ticked beyond the ninety minute mark a wild cheer could be heard even amongst the celebratory Madridistas in the Spanish capital. Fans burst onto the pitch sporadically but soon continuously, screaming their emotions to the sky as the final game of the season effectively ended with the decisive final kick. Rayo Vallecano fans roared in triumph with their hero Raul Tamudo, yet it could all have been so different. Winning a game deep into injury time ranks highest in football fan euphoria … [Read more...]
Real Valladolid Season Preview
If I were awarded the opportunity to christen the new La Liga season (what a noble honour) I feel that it would only be apt to name it 'David' after the famous underdog who slayed the mighty Goliath from the popular Bible myth. Consequently we could witness the terribly predictable hierarchical structure of the Spanish game collapse and succumb to even the tiniest of challengers (yes I'm talking about Rayo Vallecano) and a beautiful revolution would begin! Alas it appears unlikely even in Spain's capricious Premier division where up to amongst eight or nine rivals contest the title (ha!). … [Read more...]
Spain’s Euro 2012 Squad
As defending champions and many people's favourites to retain their European crown, Spain head into Euro 2012 under strength. When I say under strength, I don't mean it on England-scale proportions but just that key men, Carlos Puyol and David Villa are absent. Add to that the pressure of holding the 'favourites tag' and playing against 10 man defences and this particular tournament could be Spain's greatest triumph yet. … [Read more...]