Kit Porn! La Liga Nueva Camisetas 2011/2012

We have gathered here today all our dearly beloved kits for the new season! All in one post, from A to Z - here ya go!


ATHLETIC BILBAO

ATLETICO MADRID

FC BARCELONA

REAL BETIS

RCD ESPANYOL

GETAFE CF

GRANADA CF (still no official release)

UD LEVANTE

MALAGA CF

RCD MALLORCA

CA OSASUNA

RACING SANTANDER

RAYO VALLECANO

REAL MADRID

REAL SOCIEDAD

SEVILLA CF

SPORTING GIJON

VALENCIA CF

VILLARREAL

REAL ZARAGOZA

Strike: Is it the right solution?

Rafa Acal Jimenez (@pspasfctweets) from the Sevilla NYC Peña (Peña Sevillista Puerta de America), with a different spin on the current player strike in La Liga.

This whole issue with the delay of La liga because the players felt their interests were not taking into account has made me wonder that the resolution of striking, and therefore leaving fans all over the world without futbol has perhaps, greater consequences.

There are many presidents that have expressed their opinion about the strike. Del Nido [Sevilla FC], although understanding the player’s concerns, was against the strike. The reason? Well, let’s focus on Sevilla FC, a team that has completely revamped it's starting eleven. They have invested a decent amount of money to tweak the team and improve on last year’s performance. Some of the money invested in players is thought or expected to be recovered with a spot in European Tournaments. The fear is that the number of members can decrease if this doesn’t occur. There is a lot at stake for the club and financially, strike is a poor choice.

With no league, players don’t get to execute what is taught during the training sessions and see that the coach is right. There is a lack of evaluation of methods. Players don’t get into a routine. The way I see it, Spanish teams participating in the Champions League or Europa League are in a weaker position compared to its rivals. This was obvious on Thursday during Hannover 96 – Sevilla FC [Europa League]. It was debated how well positioned were the Germans. They have already played five games so it was clear it took them way less time to get into the game. From a team’s development, strike is also a bad choice.

So, what are we going to do now? We need futbol!!!

La Liga Preview: 2 giants and 18 dwarfs

<< Will the colours of the ribbons on the trophy change this year?

The Preamble

Seems like the 2010-11 it was yesterday when FC Barcelona drew 1-1 at Levante to seal a 3rd consecutive Spanish league title. Here we are just a few weeks away from the kick-off of a new season, the 81st edition of the Spanish Primera División aka 'La Liga'. This is a very important year for this league. There are a lot of clubs in financial distress. The players union is threatening to go on strike over unpaid wages. There is simmering discontent over the lopsided TV deal heavily loaded in favour of Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. It promises to be another roller coaster season full of twists and turns along with some fabulous football.

For a league where only two teams are in the title race from match day 1 (as the title suggests), there is more drama and excitement around the title race than one would expect. It is provided by the encounters between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, the vicious and cynical media machines spewing bile from both sides and the petulant fans from both sides pouring gasoline on a burning stove. And if you thought you had enough of the 'Clasico's last season, the season starts with two more of them, the two legs of the Spanish Super Cup.

With that backdrop, let me set you up for the season with a quick preview.

The Offseason

This offseason has been dominated by three major themes.

1. Protracted transfer sagas of Alexis Sanchez, Kun Aguero, Neymar and Cesc Fabregas.
2. Project Málaga
3. Financial trouble at the majority of the clubs
   

Barcelona has signed Chilean forward/winger Alexis Sanchez from Udinese after almost two months of negotiations. It appeared like Real Madrid would land Kun Aguero after he forced his way out Atlético Madrid but he ended up at Manchester City. Real Madrid pursued Neymar with a lot of determination but the Brazilian phenom looks set to continue at Santos at least until the January transfer window. The Cesc Fabregas saga has been running for three summers now and it might finally be over this summer. Barcelona is using brinkmanship tactics to get the player for as less as possible and Arsenal hasn’t budged so far. But according to various media outlets, the deal might be close.

Málaga have been the most active La Liga team in the transfer market. They have made some intelligent signings in Toulalan, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, Mathijsen, Nacho Monreal, Isco Alarcon, and Joaquin and topped their summer by signing Santi Cazorla from Villarreal. They pursued him all summer as their star-signing. They have strengthened their team by spending about 60million euros on 8 players. Coach Manuel Pellegrini has one of the deepest squads in La Liga heading into the season.

While Málaga has been on a spending spree thanks to the financial muscle of their new owner Sheikh Abdullah Al Thani, a lot of the other teams are in deep financial strife. Newly promoted Rayo Vallecano and Real Betis are in administration. So are Racing and Zaragoza. The rest aren’t much better off either. Teams like Villarreal and Atlético have had to sell one of their stars to raise money for new signings. The financial crisis has a debilitating on a lot of teams in La Liga as well as the Liga Adelante (2^nd division). Spain has by far the most clubs in administration (in the top two divisions) than any other league in Europe. However, I do expect teams to make a few more signings using some creative deals involving players, deferred payments etc.

The Season

Approximately two weeks away from the season kick-off on Aug 20/21, the season promises to be a very good one. The two-legged Super Cup between Barcelona and Real Madrid will raise the curtain on the season, rather fittingly. There is little doubt that one of these two giants will be the eventual league champion.

Real Madrid has added the talented midfielder Nuri Sahin and the Portuguese international left-back Fabio Coentrão to a strong squad. They are still in the market for a striker and despite the setbacks of not landing Kun Aguero or Neymar, have the depth to compete in all the three competitions. Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have been in mid-season form in the preseason. Barcelona have signed only Alexis Sanchez so far but with the Cesc deal looming, Pep Guardiola’s side looks set for the season with a very strong squad. They can afford the luxury of dipping into their talent-laden youth system if needed. Moreover, a team with Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, Villa and Co doesn’t need a lot of changes to click.

Málaga is primed for success with a talented side. The expectations are high in the Andalucian city and some experts are even predicting them to finish in the Champions Leagues spots by the end of the season. I expect them to struggle early while they gel as a team. But by about November they could turn it on. They start the season with a bang hosting Barcelona in Week#1. That game promises to be a cracker.

Valencia, Sevilla and Villarreal look very solid. Valencia has made some shrewd signings this season in Adil Ramis, Danny Parejo and looks like they might be close to securing a loan for Spanish U20 captain Sergio Canales. Sevilla has a new coach in Marcelino Garcia, the ex-Racing coach. They have been relatively quiet in the transfer market so far, but we are almost a month away from the transfer deadline. Villarreal have made some good signings like Cristian Zapata to shore-up their defence where they were vulnerable last season. They have lost Santi Cazorla to Málaga, a transaction that has angered and saddened the Madrigal faithful at Vila-real. But they managed to retain rest of their stars in Borja Valero, Beppe Rossi and Nilmar.

Athletic club of Bilbao have a new manager, the excellent ‘El Loco’(the crazy) Marcelo Bielsa. The summer saw him linked to Real Sociedad as well as Sevilla. The new president of Athletic, Jose Urrutia had an agreement with Bielsa to make him the coach in case he won the Athletic’s presidential elections. The Basques-only policy means they don’t have a huge talent pool to choose from. They have added the excellent creative midfielder Ander Herrera to a talented squad that includes, Fernando Llorente, Javi Martinez and Iker Munaín. Depth of squad could be an issue for them, especially if they go deep in all three competitions. Everyone that follows La Liga will watch Mr. Bielsa and his team very closely.

Atlético Madrid, where there is never a dull day at office looks weakened with the departure of Kun Aguero. At the moment they haven’t signed a replacement yet. They have signed striker and Golden ball winner at Euro U21 Adrian Lopez. New coach Gregorio Manzano has a huge task at hand to stabilize this inherently unstable team.

Teams like Getafe, Osasuna, Real Sociedad, Zaragoza, the newly promoted Granada, Mallorca, Racing Santander, Sporting Gijon, Espanyol and Levante haven’t done much in the transfer market. The loan deal for Real Madrid’s prospect Pablo Sarabia to Getafe is the most notable of them all.

Predictions

Champion: Real Madrid. The race between Barcelona and Real Madrid will be closer than ever but I think Mourinho’s team will have the last laugh and will edge out the Catalans.

Copa Del Rey: Barcelona

Champions League: Real Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Málaga. Yes, I am very
optimistic about the Málaga revolution and they will edge Villarreal for the 4^th spot.

Europa League: Villarreal, Sevilla, Athletic

Relegation: Rayo Vallecano, Racing Santander and Granada or Levante. Rayo is an absolute mess right now with players striking over unpaid wages. Racing has been left high and dry by Ali Sayeed and there is a vacuum of leadership there. Levante have lost their coach Luis Garcia (to Getafe) and sold their top-scorer Felipe Caicedo and haven’t replaced him.

PS: This article was written before the Super Cup was played.

RAYO VALLECANO nueva camiseta/new kit 2011-2012

Rayo is a humble team that has had horrendous managment, severe financial troubles and fantastic fans. Their poor players continued on even though they had not seen a paycheck for over a year. Now with a new owner, they are in ley concursal or voluntary bankruptcy. The judge appointed administrators are reviewing the club's financial position and are most likely going to make some drastic decisions that could include releasing the coach, sporting director and the 5 highest paid players, due to economic hardship. More to come.

All things considered, time to bring a little levity and a bit of the silver lining, because Los Piratas have come out with their latest kits!!!

The home kit is the typical all white, with the red traditional sash crossing the chest, with the logo emblazoned nicely. The socks are all black in contrast. The manufacturer is now Royal Sport. The look is very smart looking, to be honest.

The away kit is all black with a blue sash crossing the chest along with the all black socks.

Welcome back to La Primera! Here's to better times and less suffering!

RCD MALLORCA new kit/nueva camiseta 2011-2012

El Bermellon have released their new kits for the season. The shirt maker is Macron and the sponsor is Bet-at-home.com.

From left to right, Juan Calatayud ( new goalkeeper), Sergio Tejera (midfielder) , Gianni Zuiverloon (new rightback), Emilio Nsue (winger and canterano) and Pep Martí (vice captain & midfielder) displayed the latest kits this week.

The new home jersey worn by Pep Marti, is red with a retro 'V' collar and black shorts. The away kit modeled by Zuiverloon is all white, also with a retro 'V' collar.

The team has also released a new training kit (modeled by Emilio Nsue) and new leisurewear (see Sergio Tejera). The new goal keeper uniform is all orange as demonstrated by Juan Calatayud. (This color is quite popular this year in La Liga.)

REAL ZARAGOZA new kit 2011-2012

Los Maños have released their new jersey, continuing with Adidas. The home is the traditional white with blue trimming and blue shorts. The away kit is the return of the "bee". Yellow and black stripes with yellow sleeves and black shorts and yellow piping. Yellow socks complete the look. The away kit is another retro or traditional look for Los Blanquillos. For the first time, Zaragoza has released a third kit. The all orange uniform with a black collar is NOT a fan favorite at all. In fac,t it reminds the supporters of a certain team just to the south east (a-hem Valencia).

Check out the added bonus video too!



What do you think of the new shirts? I think they are pretty sweet and show a lot of character. I would love to hear your thoughts.

Forza Futbol Spain La Liga Tour 2012

Hola chicos y chicas, yours truly, Elisa from Forza Futbol is heading on a dream trip back to España to drink wine, eat pintxos, take in some Picasso and Gaudi, relax on the beach and most importantly see some LIVE football! La Liga, Copa del Rey, Champions League, Europa League, Segunda, La Roja, La Rojita are all a possibility!

The plan is three weeks, four cities, football, culture, travel, and food. Madrid, Bilbao, Barçelona and Valencia are the targeted cities. Hopefully I can watch at least one game per city, but you never know. I am trying to get press credentials for each game too!!



Draft itinerary: March 7th – 27th


Valencia: Fallas, Valencia game at Mestalla (Valencia v Mallorca) and meet up with friends for coffee. (March 8th – 13th)

Bilbao: Athletic Bilbao game at San Mames (most likely Athletic v Valencia), Stadiurm Tour, visit San Sebastian and Pamplona, pintxos! (March 14th - 19th)

Barçelona: Barçelona game at Camp Nou (Barçelona v Granada), Gaudi, Costa Brava, and Las Ramblas (March 19th – 23rd)

Madrid: Real Madrid game at the Bernabeu (most likely Real Madrid v Real Sociedad), Stadium Tour, meet up with friends for drinks, el Prado, and Bull Fight!! (March 23th – 27th)


What am I missing? It’s been a loooong time since I have been back to Madrid. This will be my first time in Bilbao, Valencia, and Barçelona. The last time I visited Spain, I spent all of my time in Andalusia. Let's meet up!

I most likely will only have 5 days per city, but I want to eat and drink may way through Spain and get the most bang for my buck from a football and travel perspective. I most likely will be traveling from city to city via AVE or fly.

I want to hear from you guys! What are the must dos in Spain? What are your suggestions to make this trip as smooth as logistically possible? What are the best airlines, especially considering intercity jumps? What are the best places to stay, central, safe, but cheap? Is there such a thing? Apartment or BnB? What are the best restaurants and sights? What are the keys to the stadiums, tours, photos, access, contacts and media credentials, you name it! Help me out here! How can I make this the trip of a lifetime?


Please comment below, send me a facebook message (forza futbol page), send me a tweet (eu_forzafutbol) or an email (forza.futbol@yahoo.com). I am counting on you to get the inside scoop!

VIDEO: Loco Bielsa transforms the Athletic Club bench

Calm, mild mannered, relaxed? Not Marcelo Bielsa! Check out some footage from pre-season at the helm of Athletic Club. It's in Spanish and demonstrates the passion of the great man (along with a little bit of the sweet side). If he gets this worked up for a friendly, I worry about him when the league starts. Enjoy!

SEVILLA FC 2011-2012 New Kit/Nueva Camiseta

As previously reported, Sevilla FC has joined up with Chinese kit manufacturer Li-Ning for the 2011-2012 season. The new kits look sleak, simple and classy. El Nervion used this opportunity to bring in the new signings to show off the new jerseys.

The home kit is the traditional white with red trim (sported by new midfielder Piotr Trochowski in the photo). The away kit is red with white trim (modeled by new winger Manu de Moral). The third kit is black with red trim (worn by new boy Emir Spahic) and the goalkeeper uniform is all yellow (as demonstrated by Dani Jimenez).

Li-Ning claims to have the latest technological advances in sportswear - anti-bacterial, temperature control, light, comfort, and player names in Spanish and Chinese.

Video camisetas Li-Ning Sevilla FC temp. 11/12 from www.sevillafc.es on Vimeo.

I, for one, really like the new uniforms and feel that it was a good move from a fashion and global perspective to move from Joma to Li-Ning. What do you think?

Yahoo! Fantasy Football is here!

Hello, all, this is Data Head, resident Yahoo! Fantasy Football (YFF) fanatic. For the better part of the year, I live and breathe this game in the same way some of you might enjoy the Beautiful Game. Not only are the two games (real and fantastical) complementary, but I would argue that participating in the fantasy game will enhance your appreciation of what transpires on the pitch week after week. Have you ever heard of Ernesto Galán, or Leonardo Ponzio? Well, until I started playing YFF Superliga, I certainly hadn't, but by the end of the season, the pair were like aces up my sleeves, racking up points at a low cost while allowing me to splurge elsewhere on star players such as Messi or Agüero. During broadcasts of the games, I not only knew the names of the players, but I knew the bench as well, which players were likely to be swapped for which later in the game, and, of course, who was most likely to perform (and earn my fantasy team points).

If YFF sounds intimidating, or if you think you have to be a seasoned veteran to enjoy the game, then consider this: I have a mere half a season under my belt. And my fellow YFF Superliga blogger, "Johnson" over at Fantasy Football: La Liga, has, from what I can tell, two. But make no mistake about it, we know Primera players like the backs of our hands. Fortunately for our readers, we enjoy sharing our knowledge and enthusiasm. So it is in this frame of mind that I now extend to you an invitation to play the game, and beyond that, to join a Blog League that unites my blog -- Fantasy Football Stats -- Johnson's blog, and this one.

Again, it is not as hard as you might think to join in. First, go to the YFF homepage:

http://uk.superliga.fantasysports.yahoo.com/football

Or, if you are a purist, a bilingual, or a native Spanish speaker, you can visit the YFF España homepage:

http://es.superliga.fantasysports.yahoo.com/football

They actually link to the same game, and you can toggle between any of thirteen languages at any time by clicking on the appropriate link at the bottom of the screen there.

Next, click on the yellow "Create a team" button. If you have a Yahoo! account, then signing up will be simple. Just accept the terms of service, come up with a team name, select your time zone, etc. (It's all right there on the same screen.) Then select your favorite team, which will place you in a larger "Fans of" group, and click "Continue." If everything looks all right to you, then click "Create Team," and your team will be registered. That's it! You are now ready to start exploring a truly enriching game.

But if you want to take your participation a bit further, to take the red pill, as it were, then I would encourage you to join the Blog League, where the private adventure begins (a members-only discussion board for chit-chat, words of counsel, or trash talk). Click "Join a Group."

[cue lightning]

You will be prompted to enter a Group ID# and Password. Your key to the exclusive group "YFF Stats - Superliga" is:

Group ID#: 272
Password: yffstats1

Now you will be in the company of your blog authors, one another, and other eager managers from different parts of the globe. If space runs out, or if the number of teams in the group hits 100, then I'll simply create another group and the process of filling the slots will start all over.

If you are not overwhelmed by all this pigeonholing, of joining a group within a group, then I would ask you to take one final step and join our head-to-head blog league, run in conjunction with YFF. To add an extra dimension to the game, I thought it would be fun to run a league just like the real Primera, with twenty teams to a division, based on YFF experience, in which each team would play the others twice over the course of the season. The points system would be the same (i.e. 3 for a win, 1 for a draw, and 0 for a loss), and would be based on weekly performance in terms of YFF points. There could be a Champions League, relegation zone, and everything.
But wait! Before I get too carried away, I almost forgot to tell you how to play. The rules, which I encourage you to read and reread, can be found here.
The CliffsNotes version is this: You must select eleven players in a valid formation within the allotted budget, then save your team. (You do all this within the "Team Manager" tab you will see upon logging in.) If you want tips, opinions, and analysis, that is where Johnson and I can help out. Again, his blog is Fantasy Football: La Liga, and mine is Fantasy Football Stats. As you can glean from the title of his blog, it deals exclusively with La Liga. Mine covers both the Primera and the English Premier League, with a microscopic view on YFF. (You may feel free to join the YFF EPL group as well.) In fact, each week before the deadline, I create a user-generated Blog Team based entirely on votes in a poll that I put up on my site. In this way, you can see players that other managers think represent good picks. In addition, you can ask questions in the chat room, leave a comment, etc. Our mission is to create a community, and for Johnson and me, our vehicle for promoting the Beautiful Game is decidedly Yahoo! Fantasy Football.

I hope to see you in the Blog League(s) soon! Many thanks to Elisa for allowing us to align the interests of the three blogs.

PS Yours truly Elisa will be playing this year as "Real Elisa" so get on board!!

What is the secret to Spain's success?

Yours truly, Elisa from Forza Futbol, can now add author to her resume. She has collaborated with Jorge Zuazola from Spanish Leadership and Juan Arango from SimplyFutbol.com and Goltv to bring to the English language world how Spain tranformed from always also rans to winners. Ballfoot (Balompie) v Football Leadership Lessons from the Spanish Champions: The success of the tiqui taca is the name of the book. How humble, talented players were able to adopt a winning mind set after 50 years of famine. Moreover how the clubs and international youth levels continue to develop and inspire future generations by instilling pride and a system that relies on the control and movement of the ball.

This is the fourth book of a four part series. There is also a Spanish Series and an English series. I encourage you to buy and support this series, particularly in English. The world has a lot to learn from Spanish football system and leadership style. The books are available at Amazon.com

Other three books in English:


Spanish Leadership in Football is Ballfoot: 2011-2012 opportunities with the World Champions and the U-21 European Champions




Spanish Leadership in Football means Ballfoot: Post 2010 World Cup Analysis




Spanish Leadership in Football means Ballfoot: The 2008-2009 football season (European Cup Success)

Transfer Business aka Done Deal.com

We are nearly at the halfway mark and it is getting a little bit crazy in the transfer market. More rumors than actual transfers, due to the economy, to be fair. Let's go ahead and recap the official business in La Liga thus far.


ATHLETIC BILBAO:

IN: Ander Herrera (Zaragoza)

OUT: Mikel Balenziaga (Las Palmas), Ion Velez (Girona)

COMMENTS: Not much transfer business for Bilbo due to the elections, and a very strict policy. It will be interesting to see if there are any newcomers this summer. I predict Loco Bielsa will clean house a bit and promote a few more rough gems from Lezama and/or the reserves.


ATLETICO MADRID:

IN: Salvio (Benfica), Asenjo (Malaga), Miranda (Sao Paulo), Silvio (Braga), Adrian (Depor), Gabi (Zaragoza), Courtois (Genk)

OUT: Ufjalusi (Galatasaray), Keko (Catania), De Gea (Manchester United), Pacheco

COMMENTS: Once again, Atleti brings in a lot of South Americans on the cheap. De Gea will be a big miss in the goal department. That said, I really thought that AdM would bring in a goalie with experience to complement injury prone Asenjo and young Joel. It will be interesting to see if Kun even joins the team for the early Europa League qualifiers.


BARCELONA:

IN: Thiago (Cantera), Fontas (Cantera), Kiko (Hercules), Alexis Sanchez (Udinese)

OUT: Victor Sanchez (Neuchatel), Henrique (Palmeiras), Bojan (Roma)

COMMENTS: Barça is selling more cantera players (which is a bit disturbing) and slapping them with a buyback clause a la Real Madrid. They want to make sure that they don't caught short, as in the cases of Pique and Cesc. With such a strong B team and youth program, it will be interesting to see if many more will leave this summer.


REAL BETIS:

IN: Chica (Espanyol), Mario (Getafe), Matilla (Villarreal), J Montero (Villarreal), Fabricio (Valladolid), Amaya (Wigan)

OUT: Belenguer, Odonkor, Israel (Xerez)

COMMENTS: Betis looks to have done a good bit of business, especially considering that the club is in ley concursal. Chica was impressive as a full back at Espanyol last season. While both Matilla and Montero were able to gain a lot of good experience on the bench at Villarreal and Levante respectively. Mario was a constant for Geta, while Amaya helped Rayo get promoted. Not bad by los Pepinos.


ESPANYOL:

IN: Albin (Getafe), Luna (Montevideo), Didac (Milan), Coro (Osasuna), Zeegelaar (Ajax) Moreno (AZ Alkmaar)

OUT: De la Peña (retired), Callejón (Real Madrid), Chica (Betis), David García, Iván Alonso, Duscher, Molina (Huesca), Román Martínez (Tigre)

COMMENTS: I am not really all that impressed with the new signings for los Pericos. No one really impressives, other than Didac back on loan. I wonder if there will be a few more signings or perhaps a couple of cantera promotions to the first team? Right now it looks like a net loss in quality in the transfer department.


GETAFE:

IN: Lopo (Depor), J Rodriguez (Depor), Lacen (Racing), D. Castro (Sporting), Moya (Valencia), Albertazzi (Milan), Sarabia (Castilla)

OUT: Manu del Moral (Sevilla), Albín (Espanyol), Marcano (Villarreal), Víctor Sánchez (Barcelona), Mario (Betis), Parejo (Valencia), Boateng (Dnipro), Kas (Bursaspor)

COMMENTS: A lot of big losses, but I feel that Luis Garcia is bringing in a good blend of players with La Liga experience and potential. Feeling good for Geta this year.


GRANADA

IN: Siqueira (Udinese), J. Romero (Udinese), D. Cortes (Hercules), Pamarot (Hercules)

OUT: Collantes (Cartagena), Rubén, Juande (Betis), Óscar Pérez, Jonathan Granada, Carlos Calvo, Párraga, Mensah (Evian) ,Rubén Párraga (Murcia)

COMMENTS: I hope that sister club, Udinese loans more players to Granada, players of La Liga quality. If not, Granada can join the list of newly promoted teams most likely to go back down.


LEVANTE:

IN: Farinos (Hercules), K Navas (Albacete), Aranda (Osasuna), Pallardo (Getafe), W Silva (Arsenal), Barkero (Numancia), Pedro Lopez (Valladolid), Xavi Torres (Malaga)

OUT: Xisco Nadal, Del Horno (Valencia), Jefferson Montero (Betis), Cerra, Reina (Cartagena), Xisco Muñoz (Dinamo Tbilisi), Stuani (Reggina) and Caicedo (Lokomotiv Moscow)

COMMENTS: I am feeling kind of worried about Levante. This team really doesn't look like a Primera La Liga team. Add to that a new coach (Ignacio) who has never coached in the top flight. Very worrisome.


MALAGA:

IN: Buonanotte (River Plate), Van Nistelrooy (Hamburg), Mathijsen (Hamburg), Toulalan (Lyon), Monreal (Osasuna), Joaquin (Valencia), Sergio Sanchez (Sevilla), Isco (Valencia)

OUT: Arnau (Retired), Mtiliga, Asenjo (Atlético), Gaspar and Manu Torres (Cartagena), Quincy, Javi López (Jaén), Edu Ramos (Villarreal), Sergio Díaz (Hércules), Sandro Silva (Internacion al de Porto Alegre), Xavi Torres (Levante)

COMMENTS: Super Malaga taking the Spanish Football world by storm! Europa League anybody? And they still want Santi Cazorla!


MALLORCA:

IN: Hemed (Maccabi Haifa), Calatayud (Hercules), Pablo Caceres (Tigre), Zuiverloon (WBA), Chico (Genoa)

OUT: Trejo (Sporting), Rubén (Osasuna), Ayoze (Deportivo), Lux, Sergi Enrich (Recreativo), Corrales

COMMENTS: Once again Mallorca starts over on a shoe string budget and limited resources. They managed to keep Michael Laudrup, star striker Pierre Webo is not the happiest camper, Serra Ferrer is spending too much money, but somehow they make it work.


OSASUNA:

IN: Bertran (Tenerife), Ruben (Mallorca), Ibra (Numancia), Andres (Huesca), Nino (Tenerife), Echaide (Huesca)

OUT: Camuñas (Villareal), Pandiani, Josetxo, Coro (Espanyol), Monreal (Málaga), Nacho Zabal (Numancia), Aranda (Levante)

COMMENTS: Osasuna has sold two big ticket players (Camuñas & Monreal) as well as a few steady journeymen. Meanwhile the club has brought in second division players to replace them. Hmmm Let's hope there are three teams worse off.


RACING:

IN: Edu Bedia (Salamanca), Picon (Pontevedra), Brian Sarmiento (Salamanca)

OUT: Coltorti, Munitis, Pinillos, Iván Bolado, Giovani (Tottenham), Lacen (Getafe), Henrique (Barça), Rosenberg (Werder Bremen), Iván Bolado (Cartagena) and Tziolis (Siena)

COMMENTS: A mass exodus due to non payment of player wages, a MIA owner, and ley concursal. I see the Cantabrian team struggling from the first game.


RAYO VALLECANO:

IN: Sueliton (San Jose), Perea (Atletico)

OUT: Coke (Sevilla), Armenteros (Sevilla), Yuma, De la Vega, Bryan Angulo, Trejo (Mallorca), Amaya (Wigan), Susaeta, Rafa García, Salva and Borja García (Córdoba)

COMMENTS: Bad moon rising, most likely to go down. I am not sure if they will even be able to start the league.


REAL MADRID:

IN: Sahin (Dortmund), Altintop (B Munich), Callejon (Espanyol), Coentrao (Benfica), Varane (Lens)

OUT: Mateos (Zaragoza), Dudek and Adebayor, Ezequiel Garay (Benfica)

COMMENTS: Mou is looking for a striker, but the mass exodus of unwanted players like Gago, Lass, Drenthe, Pedro Leon, and Canales are sure to come.


REAL SOCIEDAD:

IN: Viguera (Nastic), Sarasola (Real Union)

OUT: Tamudo and Diego Rivas (Hércules)

COMMENTS: What are they waiting for?


SEVILLA:

IN: De Moral (Getafe), Trochowski (Hamburg), Coke (Rayo), Caceres (Barca), Spahic (Montpellier)

OUT: José Carlos and Cala (AEK), Renato (Botafogo), Zokora (Trabzonspor), Dragutinovic, Sergio Sánchez (Málaga), David Prieto (Córdoba) and Diego Capel (Sporting Lisbon)

COMMENTS: A fire sale with the arrival of Marcellino along with some interesting signings. Monchi of late has kind of lost his touch in the transfer market. However, the Marcellino factor needs to be considered. Is this enough for a return to Champions League? I don't know.


SPORTING:

IN: Oscar Trejo (Mallorca), D Suarez (Defensor), Ricardo (Tenerife)

OUT: Diego Castro (Getafe), José Ángel (Roma), André Castro (Porto) and Sastre

COMMENTS: A very modest team, with some pivotal exits. That said, in Preciado we trust. Sporting somehow finds a way.


VALENCIA:

IN: Rami (Lille), D Alves (Almeria), Piatti (Almeria), Feghouli (Almeria), Parejo (Getafe)

OUT: David Navarro (Neuchatel), Vicente, César (Villarreal), Míchel (Hércules), Isco (Málaga), Aarón Ñíguez (Almería), 'Chori' Domínguez (River Plate), Sunny (Numancia), Nacho González (Standard Liege)

COMMENTS: A slew of exits and a few key signings, if Los Che can keep their pearls (Mata, Pablo, etc), I think this will be another solid year.


VILLARREAL:

IN: Camuñas (Osasuna), Cesar (Valencia), Edu Ramos (Malaga), Zapata (Udinese)

OUT: Oliva, Cicinho (Roma), Juan Carlos (Levante), Marcano (Olympiacos), Juan Carlos (Elche), Capdevila (Benfica)

COMMENTS: More sales than purchases, the fact of the matter is that Villarreal is a selling club. This is very strange, as they have once again qualified for the Champions League. That said, financial times are tough. Thankfully Villarreal B was able to squeak by and continue in Segunda A. This will once again be a pipe line for the Yellow Submarine bench. Will they sell one of their big stars? Only time will tell.


ZARAGOZA:

IN; Goni (Castilla), Mateos (Real Madrid), Abraham (Barca B), Edu Oriol (Barca B), Juan Carlos (Castilla)

OUT: Ander (Athletic), Gabi (Atlético), Edmilson (Ceará), Sinama (Sporting Club), Jorge López, Maco Pérez, Diogo, Jarosik, Bertolo (Palermo), Boutahar AND Ndaw (Saint Etienne)

COMMENTS: What does it say when so many of the teams are populated by Real Madrid and Barcelona cantera? Add to that another fire sale, due to ley concursal and financial disarray. Zaragoza are holding on by the skin of their teeth and going very young. Is this enough to ensure permanence in the first division? It should be an interesting year.

Real Madrid 2011 preseason day two 07.13.11

Once again Mourinho limited press access to 15 minutes during the first training session at 9:30am. The second training session at 5pm was still closed to media. Zizou and Sergio Ramos once again signed plenty of autographs for the fans prior to the first workout. There still have not been any announcements by the club, concerning any training sessions open to the public.

This was just another day with a gruelling double session for the boys. The weather was cool and perfect for any type of exercise. More drills intent on gaining back fitness as quick as possible. Xabi Alonso was back. He recuperated from whatever was bothering him the first day. However, the bad news is that Nuri Sahin has injured his left knee (not his right, where he had previous surgery) and will be out for two to three weeks. What a shame. Hopefully he will be go to go for the season.

The highlight of the day, once again, was the noon press conference. This time it was held at UCLA. Sergio Ramos and Pepe were the focus today as they both just recently renewed with the club. Pepe until 2016 and Sergio until 2017, which was brilliant news. One thing I have noticed is that most players from Real Madrid are coached extremely well to not say too much. Iker reminded me a lot of Raúl, who is the king of not saying much. Sergio was Mr. Happy, always putting a positive spin on everything and ignoring any contentious questions. Pepe had a bit more personality to him, but man oh man, he look a like he didn't want to be there at times. Check out the photos on our forza futbol facebook page and below for more tough guy Pepe poses.


Key points:

A lot of questions about Coentrao and young Rafa Varane and how they thought they would fit in the team and their qualities and such? Of course, they both thought they were fabulous and would do well. A lot of concerns and questions about Kaka, whether they thought he would have a good season and get a call up in the future to the National team again? Both had complete faith in the Brasilian.

Pepe was asked about Mou's comment that he needed another striker and whether he personally had any preference between Neymar, Kun or Adebayor? Pepe said that he wanted Manolito back because they like him and know him well. He sounded very sincere and very sweet, like he missed a good friend.

They were both asked about their contract renewals. Pepe was asked if he would have renewed if Mourninho had left the club? Pepe said that he was at the club before Mou and wanted to stay. He acknowledged that the coach was important, but he personally was happy at Real Madrid. He showed that he could play at the highest level, when others doubted him and that he wanted to be at the club, which is why he renewed.

Sergio said it was a dream come true to renew for a long contract and even though there were a few small issues, everything is fine now. He is just wants to be happy and enjoy his football at RM. Sergio was asked what he thought about Di Maria who is asking for a better contract after only one year at RM? Sergio said that he doesn't worry about other players. He just wants to be happy at RM. Sergio later was asked why did he think it took so long to finalize his contract, and whether he felt valued. You know Sergio, he ignored the negative query and stated that he felt valued and what is really important is the renewal and that he has a great year. Pepe was also asked about Chelsea's interest and he basically didn't give it much credence.

Most of the questions were in Spanish or Portuguese. The last question was in English. The guys were asked what they thought of facing the Philadelphia Union and what they did they expect? Would RM be more fit because it was their last game? What do they have to say to the fans? Sergio was honest and said that during the first two pre-season games, they hope to gain their rhythm, but that they did not have much time to prepare for the game back east. They arrive only one day in advance, but they would play the best they could. Pepe actually had researched the Union quite a bit. He acknowledged that they were 2nd in the eastern conference and one point behind first place. That they had a striker who used to play in Spain (Serbian Veljko Paunovic ex Atleti & ex Getafe, among others ) and a goalkeeper that he was familiar with as well (Columbian Mondragon - ex Zaragoza). Pepe has got brains and braun. There you go.


Funny moments:

A journo said he would ask a question to Pepe in Portuguese on Kaka and afterwards the same question to Sergio Ramos in Spanish. After the question was asked, Sergio said he understood the Portuguese and there was no need to ask it again. Everyone was impressed.

Someone had to ask Sergio about the Copa del Rey trophy and how he dropped and destroyed it. They asked if he won against Barca, would the same thing happen again? This question made everyone laugh including Sergio. He assured everyone that there would be no repeat performance.



Other anecdotes:

TV Sports personality sighting: Fernando Palomo from ESPN Deportes and Fuera de Juego was at the UCLA presser.

Fan(s) of the Day: Two girls were holding up signs in Portuguese for Kaka at UCLA. (See facebook photo) Here is the translations:

Girl Number One: "We have a present from you from Jesus, do you want to pray with us?" (lol)

Girl Number Two: "Kaka, I am not ashamed to believe in Jesus." (I bet not)

Real Madrid 2011 pre-season opening day!

Today Real Madrid started their training at UCLA bright and early at 9:30am. Plenty of fans were lined up from LA and from all over the world!

This year, Jose Mourninho is being cautious and has not planned for any public training sessions yet. Today the media was limited to 15 minutes. The boys started off in two circles passing the ball and such. The two circles evolved into los rondos or piggy in the middle drills. Carvalho, Ozil and Khedira & the 6 canteranos were in one rondo, while los titulares Xabi Alonso, Cristiano, Sergio Ramos & company were in the 2nd rondo. Shorty thereafter the squad performed their stretching exercises and then ran sprints. The media was then asked to leave. Sigh.

The atmosphere outside the North Atlantic soccer field was terrific. French, German, Spanish fans, as well as plenty of locals were in attendance, eager to get a glimpse of the team, an autograph, or a smile. Hey! I even met Athletic Bilbao fans visiting from the Basque country.

Kudos to Sergio Ramos who signed plenty of autographs prior to the training session. I also got to meet the lovely Kay Murray from Real Madrid TV.

The main event was the World Football Challenge kickoff or press conference at CAA in Century City. Cristiano Ronaldo, Iker Casillas and Jose Mourinho represented Real Madrid, while Landon Donovan, David Beckham, and Bruce Arena represented the LA Galaxy. The tournament was explained by the MLS representative as a conference tournament (east and west?) based on a point system. (OK?) Zizou and Miguel Pedraza from RM, were acknowleged and introduced as well. But the main event ensued with both Mou and Bruce saying a few words on the tournament and importance of competitive games and/or friendlies which led to the question and answer session with the players and coaches.


Quotables

"Looking around I never thought that I would be asked the first question at this press conference." (Landon Donovan)

"I want to thank everyone for the kind words on the birth of my daughter, Harper." (Beckham)

"LA Galaxy is the best team in Los Angeles." (Cristiano Ronaldo)

"The players are dead tired, after returning from vacation." (Jose Mourinho)

"The squad is complete, except I need on more striker." (Mou)

" I would have loved to had the chance to be coached by Jose." (Becks)

"I don't like to compare my team to Barça." (Mou)

"Neymar is a Santos player. Aguero is an Atletico player. Adebayor is a Manchester City player. Of all three, Adebayor is the closest to becoming a Real Madrid player." (Mou)

"The press, when there is no competition, when there is nothing to write about, they create half truths. Iker is the captain.." (Mou)

"LA is our home away from home." (Mou)

"When I come at coach in MLS, Landon Donovan will be my assistant coach." (Mou) (You heard it here first!)


The team trained again at 5pm. This session was closed to the media. I have heard reports that Xabi Alonso did not train. Thus far the club has not announced any training sessions open to the public. But hopefully this will change. Double training sessions are planned for the rest of the week at 9:30am and 5pm.


On a separate note, on the way out of CAA, I met Landon Donovan and took a photo with him. Top guy.


Go to our forza futbol facebook page for tons more photos from today!










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VIDEO: Old Lady shows Pique some skills!

Check out the very cute video for Sky Italia. Pique dressed as a monk gives the old lady a drink from the cup or trophy and the footy skills are fantastico! All the old folks want a sip! Enjoy. Sweet commerical with clever appeal.

Real Madrid roster for pre-season tour finalized!

Real Madrid has released their final roster that will be participating in their pre-season tour. As previously reported the team will train in Los Angeles for two weeks and play two friendlies in Southern California, before heading eastward.

New signings Nuri Sahin, Jose Callejon, Raphael Varane and Fabio Coentrao have been added to the list along with 6 Castilla youth players (Jose Fernandez Collado, Tomas Mejias, Jose Casado, Jose Nacho Fernandez, Jese Rodriguez, and Jose Luis Mato San Martin).

Those players participating in the Copa America will not be attending the training camp at UCLA (Gonzalo Higuain, Fernando Gago, and Angel Di Maria). Sergio Canales is participating in the U20 World Cup with Spain. Hamit Altintop who is still recovering from back surgery will not be available. Plus Pedro Leon, Royston Drenthe and Lass Diarra will not be attending due to technical decisions. In other words, they are available for sale or loan. (Along with Fernando Gago and Sergio Canales, in my opinion).

New Sporting director Zinedine Zidane and RM mainstay Emilio Butragueño will be travelling with the team, along with everyone's favorite Real Madrid TV personality, Kay Murray (LA Only)


Here's the complete squad list:


GOALKEEPERS
Antonio Adán
Iker Casillas
Jose Fernandez Collado
Tomas Mejias

DEFENDERS
Raul Albiol
Alvaro Arbeloa
Jose Casado
Fabio Coentrão
Jose Nacho Fernandez
Marcelo
Pepe
Sergio Ramos
Ricardo Carvalho
Raphael Varane

MIDFIELDERS
Jose Callejón
Esteban Granero
Kaká
Sami Khedira
Mesut Özil
Nuri Sahin
Xabi Alonso

FORWARDS
Karim Benzema
Cristiano Ronaldo
Jese Rodriguez
Jose Luis Mato San Martin





Promotional Video!

Real Madrid's official 2011-2012 Goalkeeper kit

Blinded by the light? Raver? So c@@l gotta wear shades? A highlighter from outer space? No, Real Madrid's new first team goalkeeper home kit for the 2011=2012 season.

What do you think of it? Too bright? Will it blind Villa and stop him from scoring on Iker? Is it a marketing coup? Will it dazzle or bedazzle? Do you want to buy it? The best keeper in the world will be strutting his stuff in day-glo yellow. I can't wait to see the very conservative Iker wearing this new design at the home games.

Enjoy the Adidas video of the new jerseys.

VIDEO: RAYO Ska anthem ~ St Pauli of La Liga?

Continuing our theme of cool anthems or himnos, check out this really cool video that shows the ambience, passion, atmosphere, and outrageousness of being a Rayo fan. Love the catchy Ska tune as well. Bienvenidos a La Primera Las Piratas! It's going to be a fabulous season with the four Madrid (Real Madrid, Atletico, Getafe, and Rayo) and four Andaluz teams (Sevilla, Malaga, Real Betis, and Granada) in the top flight!

Villarreal 2011-2012 kit - leaked!

The traditional Yellow home jersey is looking good. The designer for the new season is XTEP, a Chinese company and no sponsor as of yet. The away kit is blue with yellow trim around the collar and bottom of the shirt.

What do you think of the jerseys?


Chinese brands are really targeting La Liga clubs. It will be interesting to see if there are any piracy issues in the future. (just saying) The official kit presentation is expected in the next few days.

VIDEO: Athletic's hymn in English!

Just in time for the summer friendly against Tottenham? No, but a brilliant rendition of el himno del Athletic Club in English! Honoring the history of Athletic Bilbao and celebrating the current crop of young, talented players. Enjoy! Gives me chills!! Sing along y'all!