Rafael Benitez could be about to lure Swansea City striker Michu away from South Wales to Napoli on a season-long loan deal. The striker suffered an ankle injury which disrupted much of last season, and has not travelled with the squad for their pre-season tour of the United States. Swansea were reliant on goals from Ivorian striker Wilfried Bony in Michu's absence, and have since further strengthened their attacking line-up by bringing in Marvin Emnes and Bafetimbi Gomis. It now appears as though former Liverpool manager Benitez will offer Michu an escape by bringing him to Italy for a … [Read more...]
Spaniards in the Prem – Mata omitted as Michu stars
The Barclays Premier League has seen a recent rise in Spanish players, especially during the summer transfer market. Here we provide a round-up of their performances over the weekend. Of all of the Spaniards who played on Saturday and Sunday, the one who made the most headlines was someone not even selected on the bench. Juan Mata found himself out of Chelsea's squad for their game against Fulham which has caused quite an uproar. The diminutive playmaker has all the attributes which has helped Chelsea to two European titles but is being frozen out by Jose Mourinho at Stamford Bridge. … [Read more...]
The power of the supporter is the saviour of Spanish football
Spain has an unwavering obsession with football; especially its own. Barcelona and Real Madrid, the crown jewels of the country’s favourite sport, undoubtedly epitomise what every football club in the world aspires to be, paving the way in terms of status and superiority. On top of this, they manage their fierce political rivalry, which passionately divides Spaniards. … [Read more...]
Leo ensures Rayo aren’t missing Michu
Having scored 17 goals in 2011/12 to save Rayo Vallecano's troubled Spanish La Liga status in their debut season, Michu was always set to leave the minnows of Vallecas. Fans bode no grudges towards their former saviour but felt almost consigned to imminent relegation after staving off the drop by only a matter of seconds just months before. Michu had been the surprise of the season, having joined for free from Celta Vigo the summer before, and stunned La Liga with a stream of goals that ensured Rayo were allowed to tread water for ample time, but the 2012/13 season would be near impossible to … [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...]