Stars that La Liga desperately need to stay

Yes, ultimately we know that either Barcelona or Real Madrid will win the 2011-2012 la liga title. At the end of the day however, there is still 18 other teams that are either fighting for a place in Europe or desperately trying to avoid getting relegated. In this post I'd like to look at some of the stars that do not belong to the top 2 that may be on their way out this summer. I'm am also trying to be hopeful that they would stay otherwise the league would lose interest.

Athletic Bilbao:

Iker Munain: The 18 year old winger has been an undisputed starter this season on the left wing under Joaquin Caparros. He has entertained viewers week in week out and is one of the rising stars of la liga

Javi Martinez: The 22 year old is a world cup winner and there is reportedly lots of interest in him from other teams. He has had a decent campaign so far and could be on the way out.

Fernando Llorente: The big number 9 is a wanted man over Europe especially in the Premier league. His dangerous ability to win headers and to fight at the end of crosses has got him 17 goals this season. Like all journalists, Tottenham Hotspur couldn't believe themselves when they had an astonishing £26 million bid turned down by Bilbo. However will they come back for the Basque striker in the summer? He doesn't mind staying at Bilbao but will champions league football or an increased wage lure him away from Spain? I must confess my opinion that it would be very hard for Athletic to hold on to their man.

Atletico Madrid:

Sergio Aguero: Kun has continued to carry Atletico this season with Forlan's departure looking very likely. Lots of teams are in for him because he's matured now and is a very good finisher. He looks very likely to stay after saying that he'd like to honor his current deal which lasts until 2014.

Diego Forlan: Back in July the idea struck me that la liga would feature the world cup's best player. This however has turned around completely on me. Forlan has mainly featured off the bench at this end of the season and judging by the behavior its clear to see that there has been some sort of falling out at Atletico. It is almost certain that he is headed for the exit door in the summer but I'd still be hopeful of him staying in Spain at least. La liga would loose a very good footballer if he goes.

David De Gea: Atletico's very young and promising keeper has got himself on the radar of many top clubs this season. Clubs such as Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester United who have goalkeeper problems have all confessed that he has the talent. The English media have begun to say that a deal with Manchester United will be completed within the next two weeks. It's certain that he has talent and plenty potential for the future, but is he good enough to become Manchester United's No.1? Honestly I think that he isn't ready for that big of a move as yet. He needs at least another year to gain some experience to be playing for such a big club.

Espanyol:

Jose Callejon: A former Real Madrid youth product, Callejon has lit up the Cornella -El Prat at times this season. By now Madrid maybe wondering how he was able to get away from their sights. The winger is very important if they are to improve next season, bearing in mind the fantastic start they had to this campaign.

Pablo Osvaldo: Osvaldo has been very impressive this season. A key player for them which almost booked a place in Europe next season. He has been so impressive, he's earned a special scouting visit from Harry Redknapp who traveled to watch the Buenos Aries born forward. Whether it's a done deal or not only time will tell, doing a bit of research, some websites are reporting that Osvaldo signed for 15.6 million to Tottenham Hotspur. It's most likely false but with Espanyol failing to secure a place in Europe, will Tottenham lure him away having already secured a place in the Europa League?

Sevilla:

Alvaro Negredo: Another one of the Madrid youth system, Negredo has bagged 18 goals for Sevilla this season. He has attracted alot of interest from the Premier League with most clubs looking for that extra foward. Unfortunate to be over-looked for Spain's successful world cup squad, may be the likes of Roman Abramovich are having serious conversations on whether to invest in him. However with Luis Fabiano gone back to Brazil, Sevilla will try very hard to keep their man for next season with the Europa League to look foward to.

Diego Capel: One from Sevilla's very own youth system, Capel has been impressive this season and he will have many managers pondering on whether to have the exciting winger in their side.

Diego Perotti: The young Argentine winger has attracted a lot of interest this season. Again its Harry Redknapp involved as he has showed his interest in the player. Spurs look to be invading Spain this summer as they fight for Champions League next year. Perotti is young and is an exciting prospect for the league in the future years if he stays.

Jesus Navas: The little right winger has been excellent for Sevilla this season. His quick dribling and ability to run at defenders is what a lot of teams are looking for, especially in the Premier League. Many of England's top clubs are desperately looking for extra width in their sides and they may turn towards the world cup winner for an answer.

Valencia:
Vincente Guaita: During the season established himself in the starting 11 but later replaced by Cesar. The 24 year old keeper has a bright future and with the arrival of Diego Alves from relegated Almeria, he may force a move to secure regular football. Lets hope that he stays in Spain rather than a move to another country.

Ever Banega: A long target of Liverpool, Benega was crucial to Valencia's 3rd place finish this year. With Liverpool given funds to spend in the summer and Arsenal needing to bring in new players after another trophy-less year, The Premier League might be his likely destination. Be assured though, that Valencia will do all they can to keep their current squad and build on it for next year.

Juan Mata: Valencia may be forced into selling their star as a payment of 20-30 million is believed to be needed for the servicing of the Mestalla. According to some football websites, this money can be acquired from the sale of Mata. Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool are believed to be interested in the world cup winner. Financial problems may yet again see Valencia lose a top player.

Villarreal:

Borja Valero: The surprising season that Borja has had was unpredictable considering that he was initially loaned out from West Bromich Albion. He has proved to be a key signing for the submarines and his deal has been made permanent to a 5 year contract. He looks almost certain to be a Villarreal player next year having only joined this season.

Giuseppe Rossi: By far the best spell in a Villarreal shirt for Rossi. Over 30 goals scored in all competitions this year, he is one of the hottest strikers around and is a wanted man all over Europe, especially in Italy where Milan, Inter and recently Roma are fighting for the signature of the future of the national team. He has not only performed admirably for his club, having reached the semis of the Europa League, but has also been a key player for Italy post world cup. A late equalizer against Germany and a goal vs Ukraine is what Cesare Prandelli was hoping for given the job of developing the new face of the Azzuri. At 24 he still has lots of years in him and could be a major star for whoever he plays.

As reported by Forza Futbol, there is set to be departures of Spanish players to other leagues where they can earn much more money. It is therefore important that the various clubs try their best to hold on to there stars otherwise television audience will suffer and so will the league. The situation with the television deals for the big 2 have to be resolved quickly and the weaker teams must ensure that they are financially stable so that they can challenge for titles. It is very important that these players stay to keep the league attractive for viewers world wide to watch.

LA LIGA Team of Round 20

GOAL KEEPER:

PISCU CUELLAR (SPORTING GIJON)

His goal mouth took a pounding from Diego Forlan and company. But the unheralded GK from the original rojiblancos stood firm against Los Colchoneros. A well earned clean sheet to boot.


DEFENDERS:

SERGIO SANCHEZ (SEVILLA)

The feel good story of the season. Sanchez returns to the backline of Sevilla, his first game in the starting 11, after diagnosed with a heart condition. He had a solid game against Levante. Perfect timing for the Nervioneses, who have been lacking in the back.


CARLOS GARCIA (ALMERIA)

Another amazing game for the 26 year old stopper. The team just squeaked by with their first win at home against Osasuna. Garcia came through upfront, as well, with a goal.


JOSE NUNES (MALLORCA)

What can you say, but the veteran had another amazing game as the Barralets were able to hold off Real Madrid for a good 60 minutes. He and Ivan Ramis are a solid team. Nunes is both a leader and a fighter.

MIDFIELD

SERGIO GARCIA (ESPANYOL)

The new kid on the block is on a bit of a roll. He finally gets a start and he delivers with an assist and a goal. An instrumental player in the come back and trouncing of Getafe. It's good to see the Euro Cup winning player, rekindle his career.

PONZIO (REAL ZARAGOZA)

The Argentine hard man is starting to believe in the new regime under Javier Aguirre. Los Blanquillos are on a bit of a one nil run and this time the victim was Deportivo in La Romareda. Ponzio stole balls, made key tackles and help control the pace of the game. No crazy red cards either.

JULIO BAPTISTA (MALAGA)

The Beast is back in Spain and this time he is at Málaga. He had a fabulous debut, as he was very dangerous on the counter against Valencia. His physical presence was an ever present threat, even when the team was down to 9 men. Plus his goal was a piece of individual brilliance.

IKER MUNIAIN (ATHLETIC BILBAO)

Prodigy, genius, playmaker, winger extraordinaire. This kid is the real deal and he was an amazing force for Athletic against Hercules. His pace and agility on the wings were critical, as he brought the attack forward. His goal was just the icing on the cake.


STRIKERS:

LUIS FABIANO (SEVILLA)

Luisfa is back with a hat trick. Sure he started off the season with a lackluster attitude, but O Fabuloso is starting to get his groove back, just in time for the business end of the year. Look to Sevilla to make a run up the table.

DAVID VILLA (BARCELONA)

When you think Barça you think Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, the list goes on. But look how easily el Guaje has acclimated into the La Masia system! Give the Asturiano some credit. The football ace is used to being the center of all the action in his former clubs, but now he is willing to play at left, right, middle, or as a supplier. He was terrific against Racing Santander as he was a part of every goal scoring play.

GUISEPPE ROSSI (VILLARREAL)

The Jersey boy is having his best season ever. Nilmar his strike partner is hurt, but he and Marco Ruben are making it work. With the return of Santi Cazorla from a little break, Rossi was on fire against a very difficult opponent, Real Sociedad. A brace for Beppe, who has now racked up 11 goals!

Villarreal Best XI of the Decade

Continuing our series, this time we go to Forza Futbol Virtual Pub friend, Sid from Villarreal USA for the top players of the decade from the Yellow Submarines.

GK: Diego López. A tough choice between him and Pepe Reina, who makes the bench, but López gets the nod for consistency (barring his gaffes against Zenit St. Petersburg in the 2007-08 UEFA Cup). And Reina’s performances for Liverpool and Spain, aside from some penalty saves, have not altered my decision in retrospect.
RB: Javi Venta. A club legend, both on and off the pitch. Renowned for his smile and the ability to keep his job in the face of younger competition (Kromkamp and Ángel, to name two), Venta aged with grace and left for Levante this past summer. 182 appearances for the club, even with only 1 goal scored, earns him a spot on the list.

CBs: Gonzalo Rodríguez, Rodolfo Arruabarrena. The two Argentines beat out an Uruguayan (Godín) and a Galician (Quique Álvarez) for the starting spots. Gonzalo already has made 147 appearances for Villarreal at age 26 (it just seems like he’s been around forever), and despite a public falling-out with management over the summer, he has worked his way back into the squad.

Arruabarrena made 219 appearances for the club over 7 seasons and, if nothing else, scored the most important goal in club history.

LB: Joan Capdevila. A rock at the back, though he now struggles a bit to cope with pace at age 32. A threat going forward, to the tune of 14 goals in 122 appearances. And now, aWorld Champion. Enough said.

RM: Rubén Cani. Unsurprisingly, this was the only point of disagreement among the three contributors to VillarrealUSA. Maddi and I chose Cani, based on his (generally) steady production over five seasons with the club, while Allen went for the more spectacular Robert Pirès, who only made my bench. If this team actually took the pitch, Cani would provide a sorely-needed two-way versatility, which helps to compensate for some of his more maddening moments.

CMs: Juan Román Riquelme, Marcos Senna. The easiest selections of all. Riquelme and Senna are perhaps the two most recognizable figures associated with Villarreal CF. With Riquelme, the club turned a surly Barcelona reject into the metronome of Pellegrini’s highly successful sides. His spat with management and subsequent departure, following two spectacular failures in 2006 (in the Champions League and World Cup), was predictable yet saddening. The end of an era, for better and worse.

Senna provided balance and a defensive snarl to those Pellegrini sides, but in Riquelme’s absence, he has spent more time in the attacking half. And some of the Argentine’s free-kick magic must have rubbed off. Despite being plagued by a balky right hamstring over the past few seasons, Senna now is the club’s all-time appearances leader (at 223 and counting).

LM: Santi Cazorla. A truly homegrown talent, having come up through the club’s youth system and then paid his dues on loan at Recreativo Huelva. Along with Capdevila, Diego López, and Senna, Cazorla was part of the Spanish side that won Euro 2008 and ended the country’s big tournament jinx in time for South Africa 2010. Entering his prime at age 26, big things are expected of Santi, both on the pitch and in the changing room. And he gets bonus points for spurning Real Madrid’s advances.

SSs: Diego Forlán, Giuseppe Rossi. Another easy choice: the top two marksmen in club history (in the Primera). Forlán shared the European Golden Boot award in his first season with the club and brought an uncanny flair for the game with him from Montevideo. Watching him bang in the goals (54 in 106 appearances- a great strike rate) and celebrate them with unbridled joy was a treat, and he did the club that resuscitated his career a final favor by commanding a record transfer fee from Atlético. Pure class.

Rossi has taken a more slow and steady approach, improving upon his goal total in each of his four seasons. Still to hit his prime at age 23, the best is yet to come for Il Bambino, whether here or on an even bigger stage. We hope that he stays, but if the Italian-American leaves, it will be interesting to see if he breaks Forlán’s transfer fee record.


Substitutes: Pepe Reina; Diego Godín, Juan Pablo Sorín; Bruno Soriano, Sebastián Eguren, Robert Pirès; Joseba Llorente.

Nihat Kahveci, Nilmar (despite only one year with the club in the 2000s), and Jon Dahl Tomasson also received votes as substitute strikers.

VIDEO: Christmas Time at Giuseppe Rossi´s House

One of the truest things about Christmas-time in La Liga is that it brings out the weird and wacky customs that footballers often have. Nothing says yuletide cheer like New Jersey´s own Beppe Rossi makin´-a-pizza for Noche Buena, Christmas Eve feast and then welcoming Cazorla and Capdevila, the Christmas Elves to join the rest of his Villarreal mates who are waiting for his culinary skills to draw fruit, or pasta, or whatever you want to call the mistake he´s makin´-inna-da-kitchen. Santi and Joan sit down for some relaxing La Liga talk when a blue, bouncy trea ornament falls to the ground and instead of shattering into a million glass pieces like what I´ve done a million times, the shiny, blue ball bounces into eyesight. The team-mates look at each other, warmly, and decide inexplicably to move Beppe´s furniture to make a decent futsal game with the blue sphere. Rossi hear´s the commotion and joins in. Mamma mía.

I won´t even mention Santa disrobing for the cameras. Not to be missed.