The future of Málaga CF will be decided on Greek soil, when the Spanish hopefuls play Panathinaikos in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff. The clubs were drawn together at UEFA’s headquarters in Nyon on Friday, and the last week of August is now a do-or-die period for Málaga. With financial troubles rife at the cash-strapped club, progression to Europe’s elite club competition may be the only way to stop them plummeting down La Liga this season. … [Read more...]
Valencia Season Preview
Can Valencia win La Liga? I was always told it was best to begin with a joke. Maybe humour isn't my strong point... The fact that the question above is usually followed by an instant dismissal of Valencia's title dreams, almost as quick as Messi changes direction, makes glum reading for Valencia supporters. … [Read more...]
Malaga Season Preview
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...]
Atletico Madrid Season Preview
Monaco is the venue where two managers who were given similar tasks last year will meet to discuss how they fared. Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo managed to steer his beloved club to a maiden Champions League victory against all odds in Munich last May whilst concurrently Diego Simeone guided Atletico Madrid to an emphatic Europa League final win in Bucharest and both will be vying to win the European Super Cup on August 24th. Simeone had only been in charge since the winter break ended in late January but revitalised the club and leads them into … [Read more...]
Real Madrid Season Preview
Before we begin lets make one thing clear. Whether or not Real Madrid retain the title depends greatly on how well Barcelona will perform. It is as simple as that. Barcelona can only take back their La Liga crown based on how well Madrid play. The bafflingly simple logic of the situation mocks the overwhelming importance of the La Liga title yet it proves stunningly elementary. However strong the challenge is from one, the other must match and surpass it. … [Read more...]