Perez reveals Ancelotti appeal

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has revealed that he thought about trying to make Carlo Ancelotti boss and wanted to sign Francesco Totti and Paolo Maldini.

The Bernabeu supremo has confessed that he considered approaching current Chelsea manager Ancelotti when he was in charge at AC Milan.

Perez wanted Ancelotti as successor to Vicente del Bosque, who left in 2003 and is now Spain chief, but did not believe the timing was right.

"There were moments when I thought Ancelotti might become the coach of Real Madrid but I never found the right time for the move," he said.

When Perez began a first spell at Real in 2000 he aimed to create a dynasty of the world's best players but did not sign everyone that he would have liked.

He is disappointed that he missed out on signing Roma legend Totti and former AC Milan star Maldini.

"Among all the Italian players, I always liked Totti, but it is very difficult for players like him to leave their clubs," he said.

"I also liked (Maldini) so much and I always wanted him to come to play for Madrid, but it was never possible."

TFC roll out carpet for Real MadridKaka targeting Euro success

Ujfalusi fined for contract breach

Tomas Ujfalusi has been ordered to pay €875,000 plus costs for breaking his pre-contract agreement with Sevilla.

The Czech Republic defender agreed to join the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan outfit only to turn his back on the club.

Ujfalusi, who was out of contract at Fiorentina in the summer of 2008, opted instead to join Atletico Madrid on a free transfer.

Sevilla took the 31-year-old to court and won with the stopper now having to pay Ј800,000 for breaching his contract.

Ujfalusi, who can appeal the fine, helped Atletico finish fourth in the Liga table last season, while Sevilla finished third.

TFC roll out carpet for Real MadridSevilla capture Negredo

Zokora expecting tough clash

Didier Zokora insists Sevilla are not certainties to beat Rangers in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday.

The Spanish outfit have arrived in Glasgow full of confidence on the back of four consecutive wins in La Liga.

The bookies have Sevilla as the favourites for the game, although Zokora knows his team-mates will have to be on song to win at Ibrox.

The former Spurs man believes Rangers are the strongest side in Scotland and that their fans will make it difficult.

Asked if Sevilla would win in Glasgow, Zokora said: "I'm not sure because, in football, sometimes you play well, sometimes you play badly.

Very difficult

"But tomorrow I know the game is very difficult because Glasgow (Rangers) have a big stadium, a lot of fans.

"Glasgow are the best team in Scotland, but I think Sevilla is better than Glasgow!"

Zokora is expecting an aggressive encounter and thinks that keeping Pedro Mendes quiet could be the key to success.

"I know the Scottish league and it's very aggressive," he continued. "But there are a lot of good players like Pedro Mendes.

"I know him and he's a very good player."

a.top_betting_link_1 {background-image: url('/Images/skysports/fixturecal/icons/fix-bet.gif');background-repeat:no-repeat;background-position:0% 50%;padding-left:18px;}Sevilla Evens, Draw 9/4, Rangers 12/5

Romaric glad of competitionRSL, Chivas USA highlight midweek clash

Fabiano out for victory

Luis Fabiano insists Sevilla are going for the win against Rangers in their UEFA Champions League meeting at Ibrox.

A draw would go a long way to helping the Liga outfit progress to the first knockout round, although the Brazilian is not looking for a draw.

The 28-year-old, who was wanted by AC Milan over the summer, admits Rangers' draw in their opener in Stuttgart made him take notice.

He felt the Bundesliga outfit were the favourites to qualify behind Sevilla, however, he now thinks Walter Smith's side are in the mix.

Fabiano is desperate for a successful season in a bid to ensure he leads the line for Brazil in next summer's World Cup finals.

Sevilla toppled Espanyol in the 2007 Uefa Cup final in Glasgow and he admits the city holds good memories for him.

Intent

"This match is key for us. Sevilla travel with the intention of winning," he told skysports.com . "For me it won't be an easy match.

"Initially I believed Stuttgart would be the favourites for second spot, but Rangers have demonstrated that they could now progress to the next round.

"Glasgow holds good memories for Sevilla. We won our second Uefa Cup there in 2007. I didn't score, but the satisfaction was enormous.

"We've analysed Rangers' performance in Germany. The Scottish game is not just about the physical strength and aerial game. They've got a good touch and are dangerous going forward.

"We kicked off our season with a defeat, but we've responded well and now things are different. Sevilla are now playing at a level that makes us one of the strongest sides in Europe.

Important season

"This season is very important for me. I want to win the title with Sevilla and to score many goals ahead of the World Cup next summer.

"My dream is to play for Brazil in South Africa. My desire was to become a popular name throughout Europe and I've done this by scoring many goals.

"Sevilla's attacking line is one of the best in Europe. Any player is able to score and this makes it very hard for teams to beat us.

"A victory in Glasgow will go a long way to helping secure qualification and finishing top of our group."

a.top_betting_link_1 {background-image: url('/Images/skysports/fixturecal/icons/fix-bet.gif');background-repeat:no-repeat;background-position:0% 50%;padding-left:18px;}Sevilla 10/11, Draw 12/5, Rangers 16/5

Draw leaves Toronto FC wanting moreFabiano focused on Sevilla

Resino gets Atletico backing

Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has offered his support to Abel Resino, insisting the coach will stay in charge for the whole season.

Reports in Spain have suggested Resino is battling to save his job following Atletico's disappointing start to the new campaign.

The club are second bottom in La Liga after collecting two points from four games, and were also held 0-0 at home by Apoel Nicosia in their opening UEFA Champions League group tie.

However, ahead of Saturday's trip to Valencia, Resino has received a vote of confidence from Atletico supremo Cerezo.

"For what reason would I give him an ultimatum?" said Cerezo. "Has he killed someone?

"He has lost two matches and drawn another two.

"Abel will be coach for the whole season. I am sure the team will put in a great performance against Valencia."

New-look FCD ready to reverse history in LAResino remains resolute

On Revista de la Liga...

The big boys are hitting the headlines on and off the field - and Revista de la Liga will bring you that and much more in its weekly wonder through the world of Spanish football.

Leaders Real Madrid romped to victory over Tenerife with big-money signings Kaka and Karim Benzema doing the damage, but Cristiano Ronaldo was also in the news - for the wrong reasons.

Mark Bolton, Guillem Balague and Albert Ferrer will look at his reaction to be taken off and also Real coach Manuel Pelligrini's claims that the Champions League - which returns this week - is more important than wrestling the title back off bitter rivals Barcelona.

The champions were in fine form themselves with Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Gerard Pique climbing off the bench to give them a 2-0 win over Malaga. Some thought the Swede would struggle in the Catalan capital, so we will look at his impact on the domestic and European champions.

And we will also find out more about the man behind Barca's success, coach Pep Guardiola. In an exclusive interview, he tells us about the man as a player and a coach, and what makes him tick.

Barca and Real will lead our highlights as always, while we will also look at Sevilla's fine start, Valencia's weekend woe and more misery for winless Atletico Madrid and Villarreal, who have now recorded their worst ever start to a La Liga campaign.

There was better news for new boys Xerez, who claimed their first point of the season but are still to break their scoring duck and Sevilla, who now have four wins from four and are breathing down the necks of the big two.

The team will give you the inside track on all the major talking points, while there is also a chance to win a signed Fernando Torres boot with our weekly competition, La Inquisicion.

Kanoute happy at SevillaTFC roll out carpet for Real Madrid

Primera Liga round-up

Barcelona and Real Madrid maintained their 100 per cent starts to the season as Sevilla ran riot at Athletic Bilbao.

Though the Spanish season may only be five games old, Barcelona and Real already appear to be gearing up for a mammoth title battle.

Reigning champions Barcelona kept up their perfect start to the campaign with a comfortable 2-0 success away to lowly Malaga.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who started the game on the bench due to concerns over his fitness, opened the scoring on 39 minutes after coming on for the injured Thierry Henry.

Former Manchester United defender Gerard Pique increased the lead just before the hour mark when he turned home Xavi's free-kick.

Malaga finished the game with 10 men when ex-Newcastle United flop Albert Luque was sent off for a foul on Daniel Alves.

Karim Benzema grabbed a second-half brace as Real moved on to 15 points after a 3-0 win at home to Tenerife.

Summer signing Benzema opened the scoring two minutes after half-time by heading home Xabi Alonso's corner and then doubled the lead on 58 minutes.

Tenerife hit the post through Omar Ramos before Kaka crashed home Real's third goal in the 77th minute.

Sevilla remain third in the standings after romping to a 4-0 win at Bilbao, whose season has come off the rails in the past week.

Renato's free-kick put Sevilla ahead after just five minutes and Alvaro Negredo increased the advantage on 21 minutes after being played in by Diego Capel.

Negredo then hit the bar before his parried attempt allowed fellow striker Fredi Kanoute to make it 3-0 at the end of the first half.

Bilbao had Fernando Amorebieta sent off for a second yellow card 10 minutes after half-time before Negredo set up Jesus Navas to score Sevilla's fourth goal 15 minutes from time.

Atletico Madrid are still awaiting a first win of the season, but grabbed an injury-time equaliser to draw 2-2 at Valencia.

Argentine ace Sergio Aguero put Atletico ahead after just seven minutes after he was played in by strike partner Diego Forlan.

But Valencia drew level on 25 minutes when Pablo scored and two minutes later David Silva fed David Villa to put the hosts ahead.

Villa hit the post in the second half before Atletico substitute Maxi Rodriguez fired home a low shot in the second mintute of stoppage-time.

Midfield workhorses give Dallas hopePrimera Liga round-up

Ronaldo settles in quickly

Cristiano Ronaldo admits he is already feeling at home in his new surroundings at Real Madrid.

The Portugal international forward moved to the Spanish capital this summer in a record-breaking Ј80million switch from Manchester United.

Having risen to the top of his profession during his days at Old Trafford much was expected of the World Player of the Year at Santiago Bernabeu.

He has not disappointed, marking each of his four Primera Liga outings so far with a goal.

Those exploits have already seen him re-write the Real history books, while he has played an integral role in helping the club make a 100 per cent start to the 2009/10 campaign.

Ronaldo insists he never had any doubt that he would find it easy to acclimatise at such a prestigious club, but has paid tribute to his team-mates for helping to feel at ease so quickly.

"I knew things would go well," he told the club's official website .

"I just needed to be patient and stick to the same plan I had in Manchester.

Adjusting

"I understand that there are people who do not like what I do on the pitch, but it is just the way I play. That is who I am and I will continue being that person.

"I am happy in Madrid. I am adjusting to life little by little. I wanted to come here for some time and the club helped me make it a reality.

"Thank God things are going well, and it is all due to my team-mates. They are helping me a lot."

Real look set for a titanic tussle with arch-rivals Barcelona at the top of the table this season, with the Catalan giants also yet to drop a point this term.

Ronaldo accepts that Pep Guardiola's side represent the fiercest competition to Real's ambitions, but is confident Los Blancos can prevail.

"Barca are a great team and they have a solid squad," he said.

"We are going to go head-to-head all season long, so we'll see who comes out on top."

TFC roll out carpet for Real MadridRio warning for Ronaldo

Romaric glad of competition

Christian Romaric insists the competition for places at Sevilla will bring out the best in him this season.

The midfielder, who signed from Le Mans last year for 8million Euros, is close to returning to first-team action having spent the last month out with a knee injury.

In the 27-year-old's absence Ivory Coast team-mate Didier Zokora has made the midfield position his own following his move from Tottenham in the summer, but that does not deter Romaric.

The former Asec Mimosas youngster cannot wait to return to full fitness and begin staking a claim for a regular place.

"I am back in training but I need to be honest. I still have some minor pains but it will be fine very soon," he told the club's official website .

Power

"Physically I need to push on, I know Zokora, we came from the same academy, Zokora is a very good player with power, he is very good for a team balance.

"I know it will be tough for me to play but I love competition, it brings the best out of me, the best between us will play."

However Romaric insists he can play alongside Zokora as they do in the Ivory Coast national team.

"Anyway we can play together, in the national team I play with him, so for me it is to get back to my physical best."

a.top_betting_link_1 {background-image: url('/Images/skysports/fixturecal/icons/fix-bet.gif');background-repeat:no-repeat;background-position:0% 50%;padding-left:18px;}Sevilla 7/5, Athletic Bilbao 7/4, Draw 2/1

New Chivas players play numbers gameRomaric out of Rangers tie

Primera Liga round-up

Deportivo heaped more misery on Villarreal by inflicting the visitor's third defeat of the campaign at the Municipal de Riazor.

Villarreal remain winless this term and stay rooted in the bottom three after Juca's eight minute free-kick was enough to see them off, sending Depor into fifth at the same time.

Mallorca continued their positive start to the season with a 3-0 home win over struggling Valladolid.

The islanders moved into the fourth and final UEFA Champions League place after goals from Jose Carlos Nunes, Aritz Aduriz and Borja Valero handed them an easy win.

Abel Aguilar helped himself to two goals, one in either half, against Getafe as Real Zaragoza cruised to a 3-0 win at home.

Former Real Madrid defender Francisco Pavon had opened the scoring for the hosts on 17 minutes before Aguilar added his brace to lift Zaragoza above Getafe into eighth.

A 56th minute Javad Nekounam penalty was enough for Osasuna to see off lowly Sporting Gijon at home.

Meanwhile Espanyol and Xerez could not be separated at the Estadi Cornella-El Prat with both teams failing to find the net.

Espanyol stay ninth while Xerez remain bottom despite picking up their first point of the season.

Almeria needed a last minute Kalu Uche strike for them to grab a share of the spoils at home to Racing Santander.

Albert Crusat had given Almeria the lead (17) but two second-half goals from Mohammed Tchite (59) and Mehdi Lacen (71) turned the game in Santander's favour only for Uche to steal a point.

The result means Almeria drop to 12th while Santander rise a place to 15th.

Replacements step up for CrewUche to stay at Almeria

Primera Liga round-up

Barcelona and Real Madrid maintained their 100 per cent starts to the season as Sevilla ran riot at Athletic Bilbao.

Though the Spanish season may only be five games old, Barcelona and Real already appear to be gearing up for a mammoth title battle.

Reigning champions Barcelona kept up their perfect start to the campaign with a comfortable 2-0 success away to lowly Malaga.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who started the game on the bench due to concerns over his fitness, opened the scoring on 39 minutes after coming on for the injured Thierry Henry.

Former Manchester United defender Gerard Pique increased the lead just before the hour mark when he turned home Xavi's free-kick.

Malaga finished the game with 10 men when ex-Newcastle United flop Albert Luque was sent off for a foul on Daniel Alves.

Karim Benzema grabbed a second-half brace as Real moved on to 15 points after a 3-0 win at home to Tenerife.

Summer signing Benzema opened the scoring two minutes after half-time by heading home Xabi Alonso's corner and then doubled the lead on 58 minutes.

Tenerife hit the post through Omar Ramos before Kaka crashed home Real's third goal in the 77th minute.

Sevilla remain third in the standings after romping to a 4-0 win at Bilbao, whose season has come off the rails in the past week.

Renato's free-kick put Sevilla ahead after just five minutes and Alvaro Negredo increased the advantage on 21 minutes after being played in by Diego Capel.

Negredo then hit the bar before his parried attempt allowed fellow striker Fredi Kanoute to make it 3-0 at the end of the first half.

Bilbao had Fernando Amorebieta sent off for a second yellow card 10 minutes after half-time before Negredo set up Jesus Navas to score Sevilla's fourth goal 15 minutes from time.

Atletico Madrid are still awaiting a first win of the season, but grabbed an injury-time equaliser to draw 2-2 at Valencia.

Argentine ace Sergio Aguero put Atletico ahead after just seven minutes after he was played in by strike partner Diego Forlan.

But Valencia drew level on 25 minutes when Pablo scored and two minutes later David Silva fed David Villa to put the hosts ahead.

Villa hit the post in the second half before Atletico substitute Maxi Rodriguez fired home a low shot in the second mintute of stoppage-time.

Primera Liga round-upMidfield workhorses give Dallas hope

Drenthe apologises to Bertran

Royston Drenthe has apologised to Marc Bertran after his tackle ended up fracturing the Tenerife defender's tibia at the weekend.

Real Madrid ran out 3-0 winners on Saturday but Bertran was forced off in the first half following a challenge with Drenthe.

The Holland international was booked for the tackle in the 24th minute but Bertran was not substituted until seven minutes before the interval after he had unbelievably tried to run the injury off.

Drenthe revealed that he had spoken to the Spaniard and offered his apologies for the tackle, which he explained was totally unintentional although he did catch the Tenerife skipper late just above the right ankle.

"It was an incident that can happen in this sport, but it is also the worst thing that can happen," he told the club's official website .

"I did not do it on purpose and it was completely unintentional. I respect Bertran and I am sorry to see him out of action.

"I spoke to him and he was pleased to receive my call. He told me he spoke to the doctor, who said he would be sidelined for about three months.

"I know he is strong and eager to return to the pitch.

"You always feel bad when it happens, which is why I wanted to apologise to him. He has my full support. I would expect the same from anyone else if it happened to me."

a.top_betting_link_1 {background-image: url('/Images/skysports/fixturecal/icons/fix-bet.gif');background-repeat:no-repeat;background-position:0% 50%;padding-left:18px;}La Liga 2009/10 Win Outright: Real Madrid 6/5

Drenthe - I don’t want to goTFC roll out carpet for Real Madrid

Gudjohnsen praises Guardiola

Former Barcelona striker Eidur Gudjohnsen has praised old boss Pep Guardiola for his training techniques.

The Icelandic star hardly featured on the field for the Catalans under Guardiola last term, prompting him to leave for Monaco in the summer to secure first-team football.

But Gudjohnsen can still appreciate the way Guardiola prepared his team which led to an unprecedented treble for the Catalans.

The former Chelsea hot-shot told France Football : "Just like (Jose) Mourinho (whom he played under at Stamford Bridge), Guardiola is the tactician that impressed me the most.

Difference

"What allowed us to make the difference with Barca was less individual talent than meticulous studied and repeated work during training sessions, and strong discipline.

"On that point, Guardiola has been really impressive."

Gudjohnsen was a target for West Ham in the summer but says he chose to switch to Monaco to get regular football.

He said: "I could have earned more money signing somewhere else or just staying at Barca as I had one year remaining on my contract.

"I am not ashamed to say I earned a lot of money. But believe me, if I could choose, I would have wished for a little less money but more titles.

Fed up

"For one year, I was not in Guardiola's plan anymore. I was a little fed up to fight to get a position in the team, so I understood it was better for me to leave.

"At Monaco, motivation doesn't come from the outside and the fans, you have to find it deep inside of yourself. It is a big change, but it is up to me to adapt."

The former Chelsea player lists Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink as his best-ever team-mate.

"We could find each other even with eyes closed," he said.

"We scored more than 50 goals together in one season at Chelsea. With Jimmy it was really great. He is still a friend, as is (Frank) Lampard and (John) Terry."

Guardiola rejects title talk

Pep Guardiola believes it is disrespectful to speak about the battle for top spot in the Primera Liga as being a two-horse race.

Barcelona have made an excellent start to the defence of their crown, winning four consecutive games, while big-spending Real Madrid also have a perfect record so far.

Many experts think it will be a close contest between the two European giants but have dismissed the threat of other teams.

Guardiola takes a different view and is still wary of rivals such as Sevilla, Valencia, Villarreal and Atletico Madrid, whose results to date have all been inconsistent.

"It is a lack of respect, after four games, to think that it will only be between Barca and Madrid. I do not believe that," Guardiola told reporters.

Hard work

"If we have won all our games up until now then it is because we are both in form. If we have won matches it is because we have been better than our opponents.

"Nobody has let us win. Every team works far more hours than the pundits that are saying these things.

"I want to see my team give everything in each game and we need players that are feeling fresh and want to win.

"We never leave anything until the next match. This is how we did things last season and how we shall do things this term."

Ramos - We can match Barca

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos has said the new signings at the Bernabeu have made them as strong as Barcelona.

The Spain international is back in action after a spell on the sidelines and is happy that Los Merengues have strengthened their squad for the new season.

Madrid spent €250million during the summer and Ramos is confident the new players can help them avoid a repeat of last term when Barca cleaned up all the silverware.

"This year there is a team that has rebuilt itself very well and that would be us," he told AS .

"There are now two players per position and up to six positions can be changed from one Sunday to the next.

"The rotations ensure that no one is out of rhythm when it comes down to crunch time."

Madrid and Barca are expected to be the only two clubs challenging for the Spanish title this season, but Ramos is hoping that other clubs can keep up the heat at the top of the table.

"I would rather see four or five so that it is more exciting," he said. "Sevilla, Villarreal, Valencia and Atletico, who despite getting off to a slow start, will be there.

"It would be good for Atletico to have something at stake when Barcelona visit the Calderon."

a.top_betting_link_1 {background-image: url('/Images/skysports/fixturecal/icons/fix-bet.gif');background-repeat:no-repeat;background-position:0% 50%;padding-left:18px;}La Liga 2009/10. Click here to bet.

Kaka - We can still improve

Kaka believes there is more to come from Real Madrid despite the club winning their opening four Primera Division matches.

The midfielder scored his first Real goal from the penalty spot as they defeated 10-man Villarreal 2-0 at El Madrigal on Wednesday to maintain their impressive start to the season and ensure coach Manuel Pellegrini enjoyed a happy return to his former club.

The club from the capital are level on points with Barcelona, who beat Racing Santander 4-1 away 24 hours earlier, at the top of the table.

However, despite their 100 per cent start to the campaign, Kaka insists there is still room for improvement.

"I'm very happy with the win, although we can still improve," he said. "To play how we want takes time, but I think we are on the right path."

The former AC Milan star also revealed his delight at finally opening his Real account after going four games without finding the net.

"I'm happy to have scored my first goal," he added. "It's been a great joy and I think I'll score more, but the most important thing is that the team won.

"When I scored, all my team-mates congratulated me. This shows that this team is very united, and my joy is the joy of the whole team."

Record-breaker

One player who is having no trouble finding the net for his new club is Cristiano Ronaldo and the Ј80million man made it seven goals from five games in all competitions after his solo strike in midweek.

The Portuguese star became the first Real player to score in all four opening league fixtures but the former Manchester United ace admitted that the Villarreal match was a hard-fought affair.

"It was a very difficult game against an opponent who have caused us many problems," he stated.

"We were able to score in the opening minutes and this is always important, but the key thing is that we've been able to take away the three points.

"We've had to work hard because they've put us under pressure from the start, but little by little we warmed up and we were able to play how we like."

a.top_betting_link_1 {background-image: url('/Images/skysports/fixturecal/icons/fix-bet.gif');background-repeat:no-repeat;background-position:0% 50%;padding-left:18px;}Top Goalscorer 2009/10: Kaka 28/1

TFC roll out carpet for Real MadridSneijder sad to leave Real

Pellegrini is biggest critic

Manuel Pellegrini insists he does not pay attention to Real Madrid's many doubters because he is the team's biggest critic.

Having spent over Ј200million in the summer Pellegrini is all too aware that the club have set themselves up for an almighty fall should things fail to work as planned.

However the club from the capital have silenced their knockers, for now, after a blistering start to the season with four wins from their four league games - scoring 13 goals and conceding just two in the process.

That has not stopped some from having a dig at the club but Pellegrini is too experienced to let that bother him.

"The criticisms are not always the same and I am the first to criticise our own performance," he said.

"The team can improve and we are working on doing just that. Many thought we would have already had some trouble but the team has responded well.

"We know what our goals are and how to accomplish them. I think we have controlled every game.

Bad moments

"We went through bad moments, but we sought the opponent's goal right from the start. Things change and we don't make the same mistake twice.

"We need to play simple football but our players' characteristics force us to be more direct. We need to gel.

"Losing possession of the ball in some phases of the game was an isolated incident, but no team has taken control of the match against us.

"It's normal to go through rough patches in a game."

Despite their lavish spending this summer Pellegrini is quick to point out that money does not necessarily buy you success, something he discovered when he led Villarreal to top-five finishes in each of the last three seasons on a shoestring budget.

"I think there is a disparity in every league," he added. "But because you have large budgets doesn't mean you win titles.

"Villarreal finished second a few years ago behind Barcelona (2008), for example. There is always a way to build a good team no matter the size of the club."

a.top_betting_link_1 {background-image: url('/Images/skysports/fixturecal/icons/fix-bet.gif');background-repeat:no-repeat;background-position:0% 50%;padding-left:18px;}Real Madrid v Tenerife Hat Trick: Ronaldo, C. 12/1

Pellegrini backs RonaldoTFC roll out carpet for Real Madrid

Emana commits to Betis

Achille Emana has committed his future to Real Betis following fresh transfer speculation.

The Cameroon international was linked with a move away from Spain over the summer following Betis' relegation out of the Primera Liga.

A switch to England was widely touted, with a number of clubs reported to be tracking his availability.

No move materialised but speculation has once again suggested that Premier League sides could move for Emana in January, with Bolton and Blackburn said to be weighing up New Year bids.

The combative midfielder met with Betis president Jose Leon this week in an effort to clarify his situation and insists he is now prepared to remain in Sevilla.

Ambition

"The rumours are over," he said.

"I have spoken with the club and we have decided to continue with our relationship.

"I am determined to help Real Betis return to the Primera Liga.

"Everyone is pulling in the same direction and I am very happy with this decision."

Emana admits he was contacted by interested parties over the summer, but claims none of the offers of the table were tempting enough to lure him away from Betis.

"I did receive a number of offers from foreign clubs, but they were not interesting enough for me to make a change," he said.

a.top_betting_link_1 {background-image: url('/Images/skysports/fixturecal/icons/fix-bet.gif');background-repeat:no-repeat;background-position:0% 50%;padding-left:18px;}R. Betis 4/7, Draw 5/2, FC Cartagena 9/2

Betis shunned Emana offersDalby making most of opportunity

Resino remains resolute

Abel Resino insists he does not fear for his job despite overseeing Atletico Madrid's woeful start to the season.

There were high hopes at the capital club before the 2009/10 campaign got under way, with a title tilt even mentioned in some quarters.

However, those dreams appear to have been dashed already, with a series of disappointing results leaving them well off the pace.

They have taken just two points from their opening four fixtures, with a 2-2 draw with Almeria on Wednesday leaving them second from bottom in the Primera Liga table.

Atletico were also held by Cypriot minnows Apoel Nicosia in their opening game of the UEFA Champions League group stages.

The worrying wobble has piled pressure on manager Resino, with supporters venting their anger at the coaching staff, players and board in recent weeks.

Solutions

Club president Enrique Cerezo has given his backing to the current management team, though, and that is enough to convince Resino that he is safe for now.

"I'm not scared about my job at all. I'm calm and working hard," he said.

"The only thing that concerns me is looking for solutions to improve the team's mental state, although only results will strengthen the morale of the squad.

"I'm going to do all that I can to turn the current situation around. I'm not worried about, nor am I thinking about, my future. I'll continue to search for solutions for the team."

He added: "The tension being felt by the team is produced by a lack of confidence. We won't get it back until we win again.

"The squad need to stick together. One match can resolve the problems."

Arena proud of Galaxy’s team effortToffees capture Dutch defender

Primera Liga round-up

Barcelona moved back to the top of the table on Tuesday while Sevilla's recent return to form continued.

Barcelona made light work of their trip to Racing Santander, easing to a 4-1 victory on the road.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic put Pep Guardiola's men on their way after 20 minutes, before Lionel Messi doubled their advantage four minutes later.

Gerard Pique added a third after 27 minutes and Messi grabbed his second of the night just after the hour mark to complete a comfortable night's work for the Catalan giants.

Oscar Serrano did pull one back for the hosts after 73 minutes but it was far too little, far too late.

Racing remain locked in mid-table after suffering their second defeat in four outings.

Sevilla's recent return to form continued on Tuesday as they climbed into third spot in the table.

The men from Andalusia secured a third straight win as they saw off Real Mallorca 2-0 on home soil.

Sebastien Squillaci opened the scoring after 17 minutes, heading home after Mallorca failed to clear their lines from a corner.

Diego Perotti then wrapped up the points on 26 minutes when he met a Jesus Navas cross to nod past Dudu Aouate.

Mallorca had been unbeaten heading into the game, but slip out of the top four as a result of their midweek setback.

Sounders FC struggling to regain home formPrimera Liga round-up

Barca sweat on Ibra injury

Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is waiting to discover the extent of an ankle sprain he suffered against Racing Santander.

The Sweden international opened the scoring in Barca's 4-1 victory on Tuesday night but then had to be substituted early in the second half.

Ibrahimovic will undergo tests later on Wednesday but the initial suggestion is that he could be sidelined for around ten days.

If such a diagnosis proves accurate, he would then miss the trip to Malaga on Saturday as well as the UEFA Champions League clash with Dynamo Kiev next week.

However, Ibrahimovic has refused to rule himself out of anything at this stage, saying: "I don't know yet if I will be able to play in Malaga.

"I think I'm OK, maybe I need a little treatment. I'm calm."

The 27-year-old has made a fine start to his Barca career, scoring in all four of his Primera Liga games to date.

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Arbeloa set for fortnight out

Real Madrid defender Alvaro Arbeloa is set to be sidelined for two weeks after picking up a knee problem in training.

The Spanish full-back, who moved to the Santiago Bernabeu from Liverpool over the summer, was challenged by team-mate Mahamadou Diarra during a session earlier this week.

Scans have now confirmed that it will take around a fortnight for Arbeloa to make a full recovery.

He will therefore miss the Primera Liga matches against Villarreal, Tenerife and Sevilla, as well as the UEFA Champions League encounter with Marseille.

Diarra has apologised to Arbeloa for causing the injury, saying: "I am sad because it was only a normal part of our work."

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Depor eye Dos Santos deal

Deportivo La Coruna coach Miguel Angel Lotina has confirmed the club's interest in Tottenham winger Giovani Dos Santos.

Dos Santos, who is set for a rare first-team opportunity against Preston in the Carling Cup on Wednesday, has struggled to establish himself at White Hart Lane since his arrival from Barcelona in the summer of 2008.

The Mexican international is well down the pecking order in Harry Redknapp's plans and his only first-team appearance this term came in the Carling Cup win at Doncaster.

The 20-year-old is thought to be interested in a move as he searches for regular first-team football ahead of next summer's World Cup finals with Mexico.

Lotina is an admirer of Dos Santos and is keen to bring the former Barcelona ace back to Spain.

"Giovani is the sort of player that the club needs at the moment," Lotina the Spanish media.

"It is a complicated deal but we hope we can reach an agreement with Tottenham."

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De Guzman interest remains

Valencia are still interested in Feyenoord star Jonathan de Guzman, according to the Dutchman's agent.

The Holland Under 21 international was linked with a move to La Liga in the summer transfer window, but Valencia could not agree a fee with Feyenoord.

De Guzman's current contract expires at the end of the season and he has rejected an offer of a new deal in Rotterdam.

It is therefore understood that Feyenoord will look sell in January, and De Guzman's representative, Jan de Visser, claims Valencia are still tracking the playmaker, who was also a reported target of Chelsea.

De Visser told Voetbal International : "The fact that Valencia are still in touch, and always say they are convinced of Jonathan's qualities, is good for him.

"It provides him with confidence, as Jonathan knows that Valencia will not go away."

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Barca tracking Suarez

Reports in Spain suggest that Barcelona are weighing up a January approach for Ajax forward Luis Suarez.

Should a move fail to materialise in the New Year, the Catalan giants are expected to try again next summer.

Pep Guardiola is known to be an admirer of the Uruguay international and has been keeping a close eye on his development over recent years.

The 22-year-old has been a revelation at Ajax in the past two years, adjusting to life in Amsterdam with ease after making a name for himself at Nacional and Groningen.

Suarez cost Ajax €7.5million (Ј6.7m) in the summer of 2007, but his valuation is likely to have rocketed since then.

Relations between Barcelona and the Dutch giants are positive, though, with a number of players having switched between the two clubs over the years.

It is therefore expected that were Barca to make their move, they would be successful in landing their man.

A January approach has been touted as Suarez would be eligible to join Guardiola's squad for the defence of their UEFA Champions League crown.

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Webo plays down Latics link

Real Mallorca striker Pierre Webo has dismissed reports linking him with a move to Wigan.

Reports in the Spanish press have suggested that Webo could be a transfer target for the Latics after catching the eye of manager Roberto Martinez.

The Cameroon international has been flattered by the speculation and admits he would be interested in playing in the Premier League at some point in the future.

However, he maintains that he is happy at Mallorca and has no plans to leave the club at the moment.

"I am very happy here in Mallorca, the quality of life is fantastic and I am well settled here," Webo told skysports.com .

"It is good to be linked with a move to one of the biggest leagues in the world, but for me at the moment I love it here and maybe one day I will play in England."

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Aguero suffers injury blow

Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero could be set for a spell on the sidelines after picking up a knee problem.

The 21-year-old Argentine had to be substituted after 74 minutes of Atletico's 5-2 defeat to Barcelona on Saturday night.

He had injured his knee and was also experiencing trouble with his thigh, but more scans will be needed to determine the full extent of the damage.

The initial diagnosis is that Aguero could be doubtful for the upcoming Primera Liga matches against Almeria and Valencia.

There are also fears about whether Aguero will have recovered in time to face Porto in the UEFA Champions League at the end of the month.

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Real reveal massive debt

Real Madrid have announced that their debt has risen to Ј296million (327million euros) following a summer of lavish spending.

The Spanish giants embarked on a phenomenal rebuilding project during the transfer window which saw many of the world's top players arrive at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Club president Florentino Perez, who was appointed in June, helped bring in the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, Karim Benzema and Xabi Alonso.

The summer spending totalled Ј226million (250million euros) but it has resulted in massive debt.

However, Real appear to have lost none of their appetite for spending, with the annual assembly also approving a new record budget of Ј381million (422million euros) for the current season.

"We're going through a delicate moment with the world financial crisis but we had to make a big effort for the new arrivals of players, which explains the debt," explained Perez.

Perez told the assembly that projected revenues, increased on previous years, should see the club cut their debt to around Ј180million (210million euros) by the end of the season.

The figures are likely to be jumped on by Uefa, whose president Michel Platini has announced plans to bar clubs from major European competitions unless they restrict their budget to spending only what they earn.

The assembly also heard of plans to remodel the Bernebeu and build a Real Madrid theme park at the club's training ground to enhance future revenue streams.

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Primera Liga round-up

Barcelona moved back to the top of the table on Tuesday while Sevilla's recent return to form continued.

Barcelona made light work of their trip to Racing Santander, easing to a 4-1 victory on the road.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic put Pep Guardiola's men on their way after 20 minutes, before Lionel Messi doubled their advantage four minutes later.

Gerard Pique added a third after 27 minutes and Messi grabbed his second of the night just after the hour mark to complete a comfortable night's work for the Catalan giants.

Oscar Serrano did pull one back for the hosts after 73 minutes but it was far too little, far too late.

Racing remain locked in mid-table after suffering their second defeat in four outings.

Sevilla's recent return to form continued on Tuesday as they climbed into third spot in the table.

The men from Andalusia secured a third straight win as they saw off Real Mallorca 2-0 on home soil.

Sebastien Squillaci opened the scoring after 17 minutes, heading home after Mallorca failed to clear their lines from a corner.

Diego Perotti then wrapped up the points on 26 minutes when he met a Jesus Navas cross to nod past Dudu Aouate.

Mallorca had been unbeaten heading into the game, but slip out of the top four as a result of their midweek setback.

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Ruud suffers new injury blow

Ruud van Nistelrooy faces a new spell on the sidelines after picking up an injury in Sunday's win over Xerez.

The Dutchman came off the bench to score the final goal in the 5-0 thrashing at El Santiago Bernabeu.

It was Van Nistelrooy's first goal for Madrid since last October after recovering from a serious knee injury.

However, the former Manchester United man sustained a thigh problem in scoring and it is feared he could face a month on the sidelines with the injury.

"I got hurt while scoring. I dreamed of this return. I will have an MRI [scan] and hope it isn't anything serious," Van Nistelrooy told the club's official website .

"I worked very hard to return and everything has gone well. Let's see how my quad is holding up. We aren't happy with the way we played, but it was a good match. We can improve a lot."

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Pennant expecting success

Jermaine Pennant believes that Real Zaragoza will come good this season once the team has gelled and they have all their players back from injury.

The former Liverpool winger is confident that Los Manos are on the right track despite losing two of their opening three matches of the season.

Having joined Zaragoza in the summer Pennant himself is still settling in and he thinks that all the changes at the club mean that patience is required.

"The team is fine, the league is difficult but we have had some injuries and there are a lot of new players and we must stay together," he was quoted as saying by EFE .

Zaragoza travel to Gijon to take on Sporting in midweek and could face another stern test as the Asturians have picked up four points already this term and are looking strong.

"They will be a difficult team to play and we will have to raise our game;" Pennant added.

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Kone open to loan switch

Sevilla striker Arouna Kone has admitted he needs to play more regularly if he is to be selected for Ivory Coast's World Cup squad.

The 25-year-old joined Sevilla from PSV Eindhoven in 2007 but his time in Spain has been disrupted by injuries.

He missed most of last season with a knee problem and currently finds himself behind Fredi Kanoute, Luis Fabiano and new signing Alvaro Negredo in the pecking order.

Kone is desperate to get more time on the field and is understood to have held talks with sporting director Ramon Gonzalez Monchi about a loan move in January.

"After my grave injury I need to play a lot of minutes and this is not possible at Sevilla today," said Kone, who is contracted to the club until 2011.

"I want to fight for a place in the Ivory Coast squad for the African Cup of Nations and the World Cup but without playing it is impossible."

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Metzelder suffers calf injury

Real Madrid have confirmed that Christoph Metzelder will be out for at least three weeks with a calf injury.

The defender picked up the problem in training prior to Real's 5-2 UEFA Champions League win over FC Zurich.

The German international has made just one appearance so far this season and the injury will only further frustrate the 28-year-old.

The Real medical staff have pencilled in the away clash with Getafe on November 1st as a possible comeback date.

Therefore Metzelder is likely to miss up to six La Liga matches as well as two Champions League matches at home to both Marseille and Milan.

a.top_betting_link_1 {background-image: url('/Images/skysports/fixturecal/icons/fix-bet.gif');background-repeat:no-repeat;background-position:0% 50%;padding-left:18px;}Real Madrid 1/10, Draw 8/1, Xerez 20/1

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Benzema eyes Euro glory

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema admits it is difficult to predict who will win the UEFA Champions League.

Spanish giants Real have been tipped to make it through to the final in May, which will be held at their home ground.

Benzema is confident Real will be there at the Bernabeu showpiece but he recognises the strength of Premier League teams on the European stage.

The Frenchman reckons the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United could pose a bigger threat than reigning champions and domestic rivals Barcelona.

"It is complicated to speak of a possible final because it depends on the draw for the quarter-finals," Benzema told the Spanish press.

"But for me Real Madrid will be in the final at the Bernabeu and our opponents could be Chelsea or Manchester United.

"Right now I think more about the English clubs than Barcelona or Inter Milan but the situation can change with time and it just depends on what happens at the key moments in April.

"The English clubs are tremendously competitive in the Champions League and always very dangerous."

Focused

Benzema joined Real in a big-money deal from Lyon over the summer and he is staying focused on trying to establish himself as a regular starter.

"I do not get preoccupied by goals," he explained. "Really I do not have fixed aims for this season and only desire to play, to help the squad and score.

"It is not easy to get in the XI at Real Madrid with the stars we have in the squad and this is my first dream."

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Villa unhappy with tactics

David Villa has criticised his side for failing to overcome the ten men of Sporting Gijon as Valencia were held to a 2-2 draw at the Mestalla.

The 27-year-old scored both Valencia goals as the hosts came from behind to lead 2-1 going into the dying stages of the match.

However a late goal from Gregory four minutes from time sealed a point for Gijon and Villa was left to rue his side's missed chances.

The Spanish international, whose future has been under the microscope for the past two seasons, declared that if Los Che failed to dispatch of teams with ten men, Madera Michel was sent off for the visitors after just 26 minutes, they will endure a second successive season without UEFA Champions League football.

"The approach after the second goal wasn't right," the striker told Canal Plus .

"We had chances but in the end, that's what happens. If we continue we will be like last year.

"If we relax and draw against teams with 10 men we won't go anywhere."

Meanwhile Valencia coach Unai Emery accepted that his decision to substitute Ever Banega in the second half had resulted in his side losing the upper hand in midfield.

"We lost control of the midfield and that's what led to the draw," he told Marca .

"We tried our advantage but we should have gone for another goal."

The result ended Valencia's 100 per cent start to the season and sees them in fifth, two points behind leaders Real Madrid.

a.top_betting_link_1 {background-image: url('/Images/skysports/fixturecal/icons/fix-bet.gif');background-repeat:no-repeat;background-position:0% 50%;padding-left:18px;}La Liga 2009/10 Win Outright: Valencia 40/1

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Messi signs new deal

Argentina superstar Lionel Messi has signed a new and improved long-term contract with Barcelona.

The 22-year-old forward has committed his future to the Catalan giants until the summer of 2016.

The talented playmaker helped Barca to UEFA Champions League glory in May and was named runner-up to Cristiano Ronaldo in last year's Fifa World Player of the Year award.

Messi's current deal was due to expire in 2014, and that has now been extended by an additional two years while his minimum release clause has increased from €150million (Ј135m) to €250m (Ј225m).

The 22-year-old is now committed to the European champions for what will likely be the best years of his career, and wants to end it there too.

"I want to spend all my career here, in Barcelona, if it's possible," he told the club's official website .

Spectacular

"I would love to finish at Barcelona. This contract is a result of everything that happened last year and of what I have done since coming into the first team.

"I am simply one more person in this spectacular group of players, where there is a team that is very nice, very united and in which I am simply part of continuing to win things."

And if Messi is keen to stay at Barca for life, the door would appear to be open after the club's president Joan Laporta voiced his belief that the Argentina forward would never played for another club.

"This is the best news Barca can receive today," Laporta said of the deal that makes Messi the club's highest-paid player.

"It is important to have a player with his human qualities and his football ability. This deal recognises all that he gives to Barcelona.

"It is impossible to imagine the team without a player like Messi. We expect Leo to retire here with Barca."

Immense

Coach Pep Guardiola helped the Catalan giants claim the treble last season and believes Messi's signature on a new deal is 'immense' for the Liga champions.

"It's an immense piece of news for the club and for the player that Messi is renewing his contract," said Guardiola.

"As it also was when Victor Valdes and Xavi did so. People go to football to see the best and that's what they are.

"It's a privilege for Barca to have some of the best footballers like Messi."

a.top_betting_link_1 {background-image: url('/Images/skysports/fixturecal/icons/fix-bet.gif');background-repeat:no-repeat;background-position:0% 50%;padding-left:18px;}La Liga 2009/10 Win Outright: Barcelona 8/11

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La Liga Round-Up

Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao maintained their 100 per cent starts to the season with victories on Sunday.

Cristiano Ronaldo helped himself to two goals as Real Madrid overcame newly-promoted Xerez 5-0 at El Santiago Bernanbeu.

Real got off to a flying start with Ronaldo firing them in front in the very first minute with a shot from the edge of the box.

The home side had to wait until 15 minutes from time for a second goal as Ronaldo headed home from a corner.

Guti netted a third on 78 minutes with a clinical finish and Karim Benzema made it 4-0 eight minutes from time with his first goal for the club since his summer arrival from Lyon.

Ruud van Nistelrooy came off the bench to score his first goal since his return from injury and send Real to the top of the table on goal difference.

Athletic Bilbao maintained their perfect start to the campaign with a thrilling 3-2 win over Villarreal.

Fernando Llorente put Bilbao in the driving seat with two goals in the first half.

Cani pulled a goal back for Villarreal four minutes after the break, but Javi Martinez restored the two-goal cushion just before the hour mark

Santi Cazorla reduced the arrears five minutes from time with a superb free-kick, but Bilbao held on for the win to join Barcelona and Real Madrid on nine points at the top of the table.

Valencia missed the chance to keep pace with the leading pack after ten-man Sporting Gijon ended their 100 per cent start with a 2-2 draw at La Mestalla.

David Barral gave Sporting a shock lead after just seven minutes, but David Villa drew Valencia level on 24 minutes against his former club.

Things got worse for Sporting when Michel was sent off on 26 minutes for a second bookable offence.

Villa fired Valencia in front on the hour mark with a superb curling effort from the edge of the box.

Sporting grabbed an unlikely leveller four minutes from time when defender Gregory headed home from close range.

Almeria picked up their first win of the season with a 1-0 success over Getafe.

Michel scored the only goal of the game three minutes after the break to move Almeria into seventh spot.

Real Valladolid shocked Real Zaragoza 2-1 to earn their first victory of the season.

Marcos Garcia gave Valladolid the perfect start with the opener after just four minutes only for Jorge Lopez to draw Zaragoza level on 27 minutes.

Sisi netted the winner for Valladolid on 56 minutes to move them up to eighth in the table.

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Kanoute happy at Sevilla

Fredi Kanoute has insisted he is enjoying life at Sevilla and could finish his career with the club.

The Mali international has established himself as one of the most formidable strikers in the Primera Liga since joining Sevilla from Tottenham in 2005.

Kanoute has frequently been linked with a move back to England but he signed a new deal in the spring to keep him at Sevilla until 2012.

And the 32-year-old, who has started the new season in fine form, is looking to try and help Sevilla compete with Barcelona and Real Madrid.

"I am feeling very good," Kanoute told skysports.com . "As a striker it is good to find the back of the net and winning and scoring brings confidence.

"It is good to have a strong start because Real and Barca won't lose many or drop many points, and we have the qualities to battle with them.

"I am happy at Sevilla, it is a place I love and maybe I will finish my career here."

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Primera Liga round-up

Champions Barcelona maintained their perfect start to the campaign with a 5-2 thrashing of Atletico Madrid at Camp Nou.

Barcelona raced into a four goal lead, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic opening the scoring after just two minutes, Lionel Messi adding a second on 16 minutes, Dani Alves a third on 31 minutes and Seydou Keita the fourth three minutes before the interval.

Sergio Aguero then pulled one back for the visitors on the stroke of half-time and Diego Forlan added a second six minutes from the end before Messi completed the rout with his second deep into injury time.

The defeat leaves Atletico languishing second from bottom in the table.

Sevilla sealed a second consecutive Primera Division win thanks to a professional performance in beating Osasuna 2-0.

Manolo Jimenez's side made light of the absence of star striker Luis Fabiano, who was missing with an ankle problem, to record a fully-deserved victory.

Sevilla's first win in Pamplona since the 1992-93 season was achieved thanks to goals from Alvaro Negredo and Frederic Kanoute.

Negredo gave the Andalusians the lead seven minutes before the break with his first official goal for the club since joining from Real Madrid in the summer.

Kanoute then sealed a routine victory for the visitors halfway through the second period when he lashed home from the edge of the box.

Osasuna finished the game with 10 men after Sergio Fernandez was sent off nine minutes from time.

Espanyol climbed off the foot of the Primera Division table after collecting their first goals and first points of the new season at Deportivo La Coruna.

Jose Maria Callejon put Espanyol ahead in the 21st minute and the former Real Madrid youngster then set up a second for Juan Forlin just before the break after Depor had drawn level through Adrian Lopez.

Espanyol increased their advantage at the start of the second half when former Depor man Joan Verdu netted against the club he left this summer, and although the hosts pulled a late goal back through Nouioui Lassad, the visitors held on for the spoils.

Real Mallorca gave a harsh lesson to Primera Liga new boys Tenerife as they produced a slick attacking performance to continue their excellent start to the new season.

Mallorca made their early dominance count as they went ahead through Luis Suarez after 16 minutes, and went out of sight in a one-sided second half, when Aritz Aduriz, Julio Alvarez and Pierre Webo completed a happy evening for Gregorio Manzano's side.

It was a miserable night for Tenerife, though, as the visitors finished the match with only nine players on the pitch following the dismissals of defenders Ezequiel Luna and Marc Beltran.

Nasief Morris powered in a late header to earn Racing Santander their first victory of the season, as Malaga left La Rosaleda defeated.

Morris climbed unmarked on the edge of the six-yard box to send an unstoppable header into the bottom corner of the net to give Racing the triumph after Malaga had appeared to have salvaged a point minutes earlier.

Racing had taken a 37th-minute lead through Manuel Arana but Malaga equalised 18 minutes from time thanks to a brilliant free-kick, but it was Morris' intervention eight minutes after that which proved decisive.

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Rio warning for Ronaldo

Rio Ferdinand insists there will be no love lost for Cristiano Ronaldo if Manchester United meet Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.

The Portugal international spent six successful seasons at Old Trafford before sealing his world record Ј80million transfer to Real over the summer.

The skilful winger has adapted quickly to life in Spain, having scored twice in La Liga and bagging a brace in their midweek Champions League success over FC Zurich.

The teams could be paired against each other in the latter stages of the competition and Ferdinand would relish going head-to-head with his former team-mate.

However, while the ex-Leeds and West Ham stopper has all the respect in the world for the superstar, he would have no qualms resorting to dirty tactics if necessary.

Inevitable

"I've been speaking to him on the phone," he told Sport Magazine . "I think it's in the stars it will happen.

"You want to play against the best players, and he is the best.

"He will get a hello and a shake of the hand, but if he needs to be kicked, he will be kicked."

When asked if City are bigger rivals to United over Liverpool, he replied: "Liverpool.

"City, now they are challenging the top four, come into it.

"But your rivals are teams around you [in the league]."

Primera Liga round-up

Sevilla sealed a second consecutive Primera Division win thanks to a professional performance in beating Osasuna 2-0.

Manolo Jimenez's side made light of the absence of star striker Luis Fabiano, who was missing with an ankle problem, to record a fully-deserved victory.

Sevilla's first win in Pamplona since the 1992-93 season was achieved thanks to goals from Alvaro Negredo and Frederic Kanoute.

Negredo gave the Andalusians the lead seven minutes before the break with his first official goal for the club since joining from Real Madrid in the summer.

Kanoute sealed a routine victory for the visitors halfway through the second period when he lashed home from the edge of the box.

Osasuna finished the game with 10 men after Sergio Fernandez was sent off nine minutes from time.

Espanyol climbed off the foot of the Primera Division table after collecting their first goals and first points of the new season at Deportivo La Coruna.

Jose Maria Callejon put Espanyol ahead in the 21st minute and the former Real Madrid youngster then set up a second for Juan Forlin just before the break after Depor had drawn level through Adrian Lopez.

Espanyol increased their advantage at the start of the second half when former Depor man Joan Verdu netted against the club he left this summer, and although the hosts pulled a late goal back through Nouioui Lassad, the visitors held on for the spoils.

Real Mallorca gave a harsh lesson to Primera Liga new boys Tenerife as they produced a slick attacking performance to continue their excellent start to the new season.

Mallorca made their early dominance count as they went ahead through Luis Suarez after 16 minutes, and went out of sight in a one-sided second half, when Aritz Aduriz, Julio Alvarez and Pierre Webo completed a happy evening for Gregorio Manzano's side.

It was a miserable night for Tenerife, though, as the visitors finished the match with only nine players on the pitch following the dismissals of defenders Ezequiel Luna and Marc Beltran.

Nasief Morris powered in a late header to earn Racing Santander their first victory of the season, as Malaga left La Rosaleda defeated.

Morris climbed unmarked on the edge of the six-yard box to send an unstoppable header into the bottom corner of the net to give Racing the triumph after Malaga had appeared to have salvaged a point minutes earlier.

Racing had taken a 37th-minute lead through Manuel Arana but Malaga equalised 18 minutes from time thanks to a brilliant free-kick, but it was Morris' intervention eight minutes after that which proved decisive.

Primera Liga round-up

Valencia maintained their perfect start to the season with a comfortable 4-2 away win over Real Valladolid.

Elsewhere, Deportivo La Coruna, Sporting Gijon and Tenerife all secured home wins while Villarreal were held.

Valencia have moved joint-top of the Liga table following an emphatic 4-2 away win over Real Valladolid.

David Silva gave Los Che the lead after 10 minutes, but Nauzet Aleman equalised on the half hour mark.

Crucially David Villa restored Valencia's lead within minutes and they moved 3-1 in front before half-time courtesy of Juan Mata.

Valladolid had to keep things tight after the interval so Villa's second effectively killed off the tie, however, Manucho did muster a consolation.

Deportivo bounced back from their defeat on the opening weekend of the season with a 1-0, hard-fought win over Malaga.

Filipe's terrific goal with just eight minutes left in the contest proved the decisive moment of the match.

Sporting Gijon's season is up and running after they got the better of Almeria with a 1-0 success.

The goal came early on with Diego Castro's strike after just six minutes giving the home side the points.

Real Mallorca battled back from a goal down to secure a 1-1 draw at Villarreal.

Ex-Manchester United striker Giuseppe Rossi opened the scoring in the second half, but Borja Valero secured a share of the spoils.

The draw means new coach Ernesto Valverde is still looking for his first win two games into the new campaign.

Tenerife secured their first points of the new Liga season with a 2-1 win over nine-man Osasuna.

After an uneventful first half the visitors were up against it when two quick-fire bookings saw Eraso Nacho dismissed.

Nino then put the home side ahead, but veteran hit-man Walter Pandiani shocked the home side with an equaliser.

Ricardo Leon restored Tenerife's lead permanently before Osasuna lost their second man of the game when Javad Nekounam was dismissed.

Sunday's late kick-off saw Athletic Bilbao claim a 1-0 win at Xerez. David Prieto's first half own goal settled the contest.

The home side's hope of salvaging a late point were dashed when Jaszs Mendoza was given his marching orders.

Platini did not attack Real

Emilio Butragueno has revealed that he has spoken to Uefa president Michel Platini and received assurances that his statements about inflated transfer fees were not directly aimed at Real Madrid.

The former Los Blancos striker is back at the Santiago Bernabeu in an ambassadorial role and was keen to discover why the French legend had spoken out after Cristiano Ronaldo's record-breaking move to the Spanish capital.

Rather than finding Platini enraged by Real's actions, he told Butragueno that he was simply airing his views on over-spending in football in general.

"I drew attention to his statements about spending on new players, as we did," Butragueno told reporters in Spain.

"I talked to him during the draw for the Champions League and he explained that in no way had he wanted to criticise Real Madrid.

"Our relationship with Uefa is very good, although I do not know if there is a case for saying that there is a mismatch in regards to views on spending."

Alonso receives injury boost

Xabi Alonso is relieved to have been informed that his Achilles injury is not as serious as first feared.

The midfielder picked up a knock during Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League opener against FC Zurich on Tuesday.

Initial indications suggested that the Spain international could be facing up to a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

However, medical tests have revealed that the former Liverpool ace could be out for as little as two weeks.

"I feared the worst at first because the blow was hard and I have experienced bad injuries in the past," said Alonso.

"But the scans have been positive and I intend to be back helping the squad very soon."

Alonso damaged his right ankle during the second half of the midweek clash with Zurich, forcing him to make way for Argentine enforcer Fernando Gago.

Messi eyes top prize

Lionel Messi has admitted that he would like to win the Ballon d'Or after finishing in the top three for the past two seasons while his reputation at Barcelona grew.

Last term the Argentinian was instrumental in the Blaugrana's unprecedented Treble success and has been widely tipped to win the France Football gong.

Having accepted an invitation to appear on French television, Messi explained that nearly all the Barca players deserve to be rewarded, but admits he hopes to be named number one.

"I would like to win [the Ballon d'Or]," he told L'Equipe TV .

"I think that any Barca player would deserve the award this season.

"Also I am well placed because two years ago I finished third, last year I was second so this year I hope to be first."

Patient

Helping Barcelona to repeat their heroics from last term will certainly help Messi's cause, but he has warned the Catalan giants face tough competition for all three of the crowns they currently hold - especially the UEFA Champions League.

"We need to wait a bit," he added.

"If we do not do what we did last season then we cannot be considered favourites. It is very difficult because everyone wants this trophy.

"The same teams will be with us, like Real Madrid."

Messi double seals Barca gloryBarca display brilliance in Seattle

Laporta right to ignore Jose

Joan Laporta has stated that he believes Barcelona made the right decision to not re-employ Jose Mourinho last summer and instead take a chance on Pep Guardiola.

Talks between the Portuguese coach and the Catalan giants have been revealed ahead of Inter Milan's UEFA Champions League encounter with Barca on Wednesday, with his unwillingness to not speak out ultimately costing him the role.

Guardiola was instead chosen to step up from the Barca B side and he did so with incredible effect as he led the club to an historic treble last term.

"We did not hire Mourinho because after evaluating all the possibilities we decided that Pep Guardiola met all our conditions," Laporta was quoted as saying by Sport .

"It was a decision that we felt would work and that has been the case.

"Mourinho is one of the people we considered, but by not hiring him that does not diminish his ability.

"He is a great coach, but we are happy with Guardiola."

Dignified

Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o has aired his discontent about the way that his move from Barcelona to Inter was handled this summer, but Laporta has a different view on the saga.

"His departure was dignified, elegant and everyone has benefited from it," the president continued.

"I am sure he will be highly motivated and want to show what a quality player he is once again, like he has always done.

"Eto'o will always be fondly remembered by everyone connected to Barcelona.

"Now though we have a new centre-forward in (Zlatan) Ibrahimovic and we are excited about that and pleased that he has shown his quality and ability to adapt quickly.

"This will be a game with the two best strikers in the world playing."

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Getafe almost landed PepBarca display brilliance in Seattle

Muntari blasts Zlatan claim

Inter Milan midfielder Sulley Muntari has become the latest player to blast Zlatan Imbrahimovic for the recent swipe of his former club.

The Swedish marksman, who left Inter for Wednesday's UEFA Champions League opponents Barcelona in a summer move which also saw Samuel Eto'o head in the opposite direction, claimed the Italian side's domestic success over the last three years was down to him.

The 27-year-old's comments sparked a reaction from former team-mates Marco Materazzi and Mancini who totally disagreed with the striker's claims and Muntari has now voiced his opinion on the matter ahead of the European showdown.

The Ghana midfielder told skysports.com ": I am not bothered by what the guy says about him (self), everyone gives an importance to themselves, and the guy is full of himself.

One-man team

"It is the first time I hear he is the player who can win against 11 men. He attacks, he scored, he defends.

"If he thinks he has won on his own, may god continue to bless him."

Imbrahimovic, meanwhile, hopes he will get a good reaction on his return to the Nerazzurri.

"It's a good sensation coming back to Milan. It will be a great match," Imbrahimovic told Italian press at the airport.

"I haven't seen Inter matches, but I say that from results they are doing good things. I'm happy for Eto'o.

"Should they talk positively of me I'll be happy."

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Agent - No rush for Zlatan

Villar ponders Valladolid exit

Justo Villar's international ambitions could see him hanker after a move away from Real Valladolid.

The Paraguayan keeper is currently out of favour with the Primera Liga outfit, regularly finding himself consigned to the substitutes' bench.

With the 2010 World Cup weighing heavy on his mind, the South American shot-stopper admits there is only so long he can wait before being forced to look elsewhere for first-team football.

"I thought I might play against Almeria (on the opening day of the season) but the coach decided to go with Jacobo and he did well," said Villar.

"I am aware that it is now difficult to play because Jacobo is doing very well and the coach has faith in him.

"In December I might try and leave in order to get more minutes. The World Cup is approaching and it is not good to arrive at that competition without having played regularly."

He added: "During the summer I had proposals from Europe and South America but I was told that I could start the season, so I stayed. But now my situation is more difficult than I thought it would be.

"My coach with the national side (Gerardo Martino) is as worried about my situation as I am.

"I need to have more minutes on the field and if that's not possible here, I will look in another place."

Midfield workhorses give Dallas hopeZigic staying at Valencia

Fabiano yet to talk terms

Sevilla have revealed that they are yet to discuss a new contract with Luis Fabiano, insisting they are prepared to bide their time.

The Brazil international appeared destined to be on his way out of the club over the summer, as uncertainty reigned regarding his future.

Potential moves to England and Italy were touted, without a deal actually materialising.

As a result Fabiano remains in Spain and has promised Sevilla that he is committed to helping the club be as successful as possible.

Those comments suggest that he may even be tempted into prolonging his association with the club, an issue the Sevilla board are keen to investigate.

However, club president Jose Maria Del Nido claims there is no rush to open talks, as he believes Fabiano is going nowhere any time soon.

"I have seen the quotes from the player in the papers, stating that he is committed to the club," he said.

"Now it is his objective to score as many goals as possible before we re-evaluate the situation.

"The season is very long and we have plenty of time to discuss this topic. I assure you that there are no plans to talk about a contract extension right now."

LA’s DeLaGarza making his markFabiano focused on Sevilla

Injury woe for Uche

Real Zaragoza could be without striker Ikechukwu Uche for the remainder of the season with a knee injury.

The Nigeria international tore a cruciate knee ligament in his left knee in Saturday's 4-1 La Liga defeat to Sevilla.

The former Getafe hit-man will undergo surgery in the coming days and the prognosis is he could be sidelined for anywhere up to eight months.

Uche is certain the miss the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations in the New Year and could also sit out next summer's World Cup finals if Nigeria qualify.

He is bitterly disappointed to have suffered the injury, but he is still hoping to be fit for South Africa next summer.

Disappointment

"I'm disappointed. It's a big blow for me to have injured my cruciate," he said.

"My left knee is in pain. I'm just waiting for the swelling to come down so that I can have my operation.

"Hopefully I'll return before the World Cup if my country qualifies, but my Africa Cup of Nations is over for me."

Zaragoza coach Marcelino expressed his disappointment, stating: "This is bad news for the club because the kid has worked hard over the summer."

Davis: The joy of settled defenseUche to stay at Almeria