In 1987, controversial politician and businessman Jesus Gil became the club president of Atletico Madrid, running the club until his resignation in May 2003. Gil made most of his money in the construction business but also spent time in jail when in 1967 one of his buildings collapsed, killing 58 people. He was eventually released by order of dictator Francisco Franco. When Gil took over at Atletico they had not won a La Liga title for 10 years and were desperate for League success. Straight away, Gil spent heavily, bringing in a number of expensive signings including Portuguese star Paulo … [Read more...]
Archives for November 2013
Real Madrid face battle with Chelsea to sign Benfica star, Nemanja Matic
Both Chelsea and Real Madrid are in competition to sign Benfica's talented playmaker Nemanja Matic in the January transfer window reports the Correio da Manha. The Serbian's footballing stock has risen dramatically over the past twelve months after a string of impressive displays for the Portuguese giants both domestically and in Europe. … [Read more...]
A difference in style
There is a huge difference between the way football is taught/coached in Spain and England and if you watch the two National teams play regularly you must agree a huge gulf exists. English football is more about strength and playing the ball forward as quickly as possible,whereas in Spain more emphasis is put on controlling the ball,playing the ball to feet and keeping possession of the ball. … [Read more...]
Barcelona’s battle with Lionel Messi
Synonymous with the beloved name of Barcelona around the world, Lionel Messi has set the benchmark over the years for what has been the most successful period in the Catalonia club’s history. Yet, the most obvious question is still queried daily among the followers of Europe’s most prestigious of clubs, how would Barca fare without their superstar ‘false 9’? The re-occurrence of another hamstring injury has resulted in Messi not being available for Barcelona for up to 2 months. Not only is the hamstring injury becoming associated with Messi more frequently, the fact that it ceases to let up … [Read more...]
The demise of Racing Santander
In January 2011 a bright future looked on the horizon as Indian businessman Ahsan Ali Syed took over at the helm of Racing Santander taking an 80% stake in the club. Founder and Chairman of investment company Western Gulf Advisory Ali Syed proclaimed that Racing could challenge Real Madrid and Barcelona as a so called "Third Force" in La Liga. … [Read more...]
La Liga team of the week – match week 13
It’s time again for us at La liga blog to celebrate those Liga players who impressed after match week 13. In goal for this round, Almeria goal keeper, Estaban wins our hearts after taking charge in his side’s 1-0 away win against Osasuna in Pamplona. Estaban was full of life and made 7 crucial saves as Almeria surprisingly increased their winning streak to 3 after being winless in their previous 10 games. … [Read more...]
Sevilla starlet Moreno a target for United and Chelsea
Chelsea and Manchester United are reportedly monitoring Sevilla full-back Alberto Moreno and planning a January swoop for the 21-year-old. Moreno has been in Sevilla's first team for only a few months but his impressive performances have seen him make his full Spanish debut and become a prime target for Europe's top clubs. Moreno is still eligible for the Champions League this season due to Sevilla not qualifying so a transfer in January would give both Chelsea and United extra depth for the knockout stages should they qualify. … [Read more...]
Messi will need time to return to his best
Lionel Messi has suffered many setbacks during the last six months and faces his longest battle yet to recover from injury in time for the second half of Barcelona's season. Messi suffered his third injury of the season, tearing his left hamstring just 20 minutes into the match against Betis on Sunday and will be on the treatment table for 6-8 weeks. It is the longest spell Messi will have been injured for and this recent spate of injuries has marked a new chapter in his career. … [Read more...]
La Liga team of the week – match week 12
Villareal’s 1-0 win against Elche at the Estadio Martinez Valero brought to an end to a run of at least one game every day in the last 11 days in El Primera Division. Spanish football fans finally have a few days of rest after all the frenzy and excitement from the various centres. For us at La liga blog, it’s an opportunity for us to once again reel out our unique Team of the Round, recognizing and honouring those who have covered themselves in glory. … [Read more...]
Spain select controversial Costa
Vicente del Bosque has called up Atletico Madrid's Diego Costa to his Spanish side for the first time following the striker's recent switch of allegiance from Brazil to Spain. The selection marks the end of the tussle between the two countries for Costa who has caused friction between the two confederations and fans of La Roja. … [Read more...]