La Liga

Subterms

    More stories

    • 275 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Gareth Bale fires warning to Jude Bellingham about life at Real Madrid and tells him how to avoid ‘a lot of stick’

      by

      GARETH BALE warned Jude Bellingham he will have to become a “puppet” and “play the game” at Real Madrid.Bale spent nine years at Real and won three LaLiga titles as well as five Champions League trophies until his acrimonious exit in 2022.
      Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham has set the world alight at Santiago BernabeuCredit: Rex
      Gareth Bale warned Bellingham he will have to be a ‘puppet’ and ‘play the game’Credit: EPA
      The legendary forward stood out at the Santiago Bernabeu, where he formed a dominating trio with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, but fell out with Spanish media.
      The Tottenham hero suffered a raft of injuries during his final few years at Madrid and struggled for minutes but still played for Wales during various international breaks.
      That led to a series of gruesome attacks from the press as Marca branded him “the Welsh parasite” after he left for international duty last year.
      The 34-year-old, who retired in January, made a special guest appearance on A League of their Own and revealed all he wanted to do during his time with Los Blancos was “play football and go home”.
      Read More on Football
      But Bale advised Bellingham not to follow his example as even his stunning start, which saw him score 13 goals and three assists in 14 matches, won’t save him from getting ” a lot of stick”.
      The Welshman argues the England international will have to put up with the media, and preferably be speaking in Spanish.
      Bale said: “The biggest advice [is] play the game at Madrid.
      “If you don’t play the game and do what the media want, speak to them and basically be a puppet, you do get a lot of stick.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS
      “You’ll see a lot of Galacticos, they’ll act like Galacticos, do what the press want, playing the game of being at Real Madrid.
      “That’s probably where I was a bit of a downfall. I didn’t want to do it.
      “I just wanted to play football and go home. It hindered me and that made them attack me a bit more.
      “So my advice would be, honestly, just play the game of Real Madrid off the field.
      “You have to speak after games, make sure you try and speak in Spanish, do those kinds of things.” More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Kylian Mbappe wanted by Liverpool and European rivals as Real Madrid face missing out on No1 transfer target

      by

      PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN superstar Kylian Mbappe is being targeted by Liverpool and Bayern Munich, reports suggest.Mbappe is set to become a free agent this summer after he refused to trigger a clause last year that would have extended his contract for a season.
      Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe is wanted by Liverpool and Bayern MunichCredit: Getty
      Real Madrid are showing hesitation regarding a move for MbappeCredit: Reuters
      Real Madrid had been favourites to land the striker in June but his astronomical salary of £30m per year, his recent performances and the club’s “financial issues” have led to doubts.
      According to Foot Mercato, Real’s hesitations have led to Liverpool as well as Bayern considering a serious bid for the 24-year-old.
      The Reds have been keeping an eye on the France international since 2017 when he joined PSG initially on loan from Monaco before his permanent move a year later.
      The Merseysiders’ manager Jurgen Klopp even met for talks with Mbappe before his move to Parc des Princes.
      Read More on Sport
      Recent reports also suggested Liverpool and the Frenchman’s camp have remained in contact in the period since.
      The versatile forward confirmed there were talks with the Premier League giants six years ago and they had a “greater chance” of signing him.
      Mbappe said last year: “We talked a little bit, but not too much. We talked a little bit.
      “I talked to Liverpool because it’s the favourite club of my mum, my mum loves Liverpool. I don’t know why, you will have to ask her!
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS
      “It’s a good club and we met them five years ago. When I was in Monaco I met them. It’s a big club.”
      According to Sport 1, Bayern are also ready to join the bidding war for Mbappe.
      The German champions hold a “serious” interest for the 2018 World Cup winner even though they understand how “complicated” a potential deal could turn out to be. More

    • 88 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      What are the accusations against Dani Alves?

      by

      DANI Alves is one of the most decorated footballers of all time, having won a number of Europe’s top leagues and lifting the Champions League trophy three times.The former Barcelona defender has been accused of sexual assault and is understood to be denying any wrongdoing — but what are the accusations against him and will he stand trial?
      Alves was sacked by Mexican side UNAM Pumas following his arrestCredit: Getty
      What has Dani Alves been accused of?
      Dani Alves has been accused of sexually assaulting a woman in a Barcelona nightclub on December 30, 2022.
      At first he claimed to have never met the woman in question, before backtracking at a later date and saying the pair had consensual sex, according to reports.
      It was also initially reported he had put his hands down a woman’s underwear in the club’s VIP area’s toilets, but it later emerged the 23-year-old was alleging she had been the victim of rape.
      The fact Alves changed his story was reportedly key to the decision to remand him in custody.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      It came after CCTV footage published by Spanish media was said to show him and the alleged victim in a VIP area and then going to the toilet for 47 seconds.
      The accuser said that after the alleged attack she was too scared to leave the toilet for several minutes, and when she finally opened the door the footballer and his companions had left the venue.
      Alves, a father of two, was sacked by Mexican side UNAM Pumas following his arrest at the start of 2023.
      What has Dani Alves said about the accusations?
      In a Spanish TV interview following the confirmation of a formal investigation being opened, Alves said: “I don’t know who this lady is.
      Most read in Football
      “I don’t know her name, I don’t know her, I’ve never seen her in my life.”
      In June 2023, during an interview from his prison cell with Spanish reporter Mayka Navarro, Alves also said: “The only person I have to ask for forgiveness is my wife, Joana Sanz.
      “I have already done that here in prison, but I have to do it publicly, because the story is public, the offence I caused her is public and she deserves that public apology.”
      Alves continued: “I entered the nightclub bathroom after her.
      “I didn’t even lock the door. The door was open all the time. She could have left at any time because I spent virtually all my time in there sat on the toilet seat.”
      Will Dani Alves stand trial?
      Alves will stand trial for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman in a nightclub in late 2022.
      Three judges at Barcelona’s Provincial Court announced their decision in an eight-page legal ruling made public on November 14, 2023.
      The document read: “We consider there is sufficient prima facie evidence at this stage to agree the opening of the trial in the terms requested by state prosecutors and the prosecutor acting privately for the alleged victim.
      “The statements the alleged victim has made and witness evidence and expert reports that form part of these proceedings can be considered as sufficient in that regard, without prejudice to the final verdict.”
      Alves’ lawyer is expected to insist his client should be acquitted of any wrongdoing.
      A date for the trial hasn’t been set yet, but it is likely to take place at the start of next year.
      According to reports in Spanish outlets, Alves could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
      Where is Dani Alves now?
      Alves is currently incarcerated.
      Read More on The Sun
      He is being detained at the Brians 2 prison in Catalonia, Spain.
      Alves was held at the Brians 1 Penitentiary Centre initially, but was transferred to Brians 2 three days after his arrest. More

    • 275 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      I signed for Tottenham for a club record £26m but failed to impress – now I’m winning tournaments in a different sport

      by

      FORMER Tottenham flop Roberto Soldado has finally impressed with a club… by winning a golf tournament.Spurs paid Valencia a then-record £26million for the Spain striker in 2013.
      Roberto Soldado struggled during his two seasons at TottenhamCredit: Getty
      However, Soldado managed just 16 goals in 76 games, and a young Harry Kane took his first-team place.
      And Spurs took a £16m hit when selling the ex-Real Madrid ace to Villarreal in 2015.
      Soldado, 38, hung up his boots this summer after a spell with Levante.
      The 12-cap international took up golf – and had already scooped his first title after just three months.

      Valencia-born Soldado won the Trececasas event at his home city’s Escorpion Golf Club.
      Spanish media have since tipped him to turn professional and achieve greater success – hailing his “winning gene.”
      Soldado joined Spurs straight after famed fellow golf nut Gareth Bale left White Hart Lane for Real Madrid.
      However he went on to make a newspaper list of the ten worst Premier League buys of 2013-14.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS
      After leaving Villarreal the frontman played in Turkey for Fenerbahce, ending his career back home with Granada and Levante.
      He announced his retirement back in August after two seasons at Levante where he scored 11 times in 51 games.
      All told, his career for both club and country totals 291 goals in 745 games. More

    • 213 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea fans say ‘hell nah, we good’ as they and Newcastle are linked with £55million former target

      by

      CHELSEA are ready to re-enter the race to sign Barcelona star Raphinha, according to reports.The Blues tried to buy him in 2022 before he agreed to join the Catalan giants in a £55million move from Leeds.
      Raphinha has been linked with a move to Chelsea and NewcastleCredit: Getty
      Raphinha previously revealed that he rejected Chelsea because it was his dream to play for Barca.
      But into just his second season with the club, the Brazilian could already be put up for sale.
      Raphinha got ten goals and ten assists in 50 games last season but has since lost his place in the starting XI following injuries, suspension and underwhelming performances this term.
      And reports state that Barcelona could look to cash-in on him if his form does not soon improve.
      READ MORE ON CHELSEA
      Chelsea and Newcastle are both open to signing Raphinha should be become available.
      The 26-year-old caught the eye of several top clubs during his two seasons in the Premier League with Leeds.
      But Chelsea fans are not thrilled by the speculation linking them with him signature.
      Raphinha often plays on the right-wing and Cole Palmer has already excelled in the position.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS
      One supporter said in response to the reports: “We don’t need him anymore.”
      Another added: “Hell nah, we good.”
      A third reacted: “We have a superb squad. Give these young lads a chance to prove themselves.” More

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      England risk Jude Bellingham row with Real Madrid ‘not quite trusting’ Three Lions ahead of tests on shoulder injury

      by

      REAL MADRID “don’t quite trust” England when it comes to Jude Bellingham, according to reports in Spain.The 20-year-old has missed the LaLiga giants’ last two matches through injury.
      Jude Bellingham has reported for England dutyCredit: Getty
      The 20-year-old has been suffering with a shoulder injuryCredit: Rex
      Madrid chiefs claimed that the issue would keep Bellingham sidelined for at least two weeks, ruling him out of the Three Lions’ upcoming matches against Malta and North Macedonia.
      It’s now been suggested that England staff are taking a thorough look at the European Golden Boy winner, much to the ire of those in the Spanish capital.
      Appearing on El Chiringuito, Spanish reporter Edu Aguirre said: “Jude is in England right now and will be tested for at least two days.
      “The English team will be the one who decides if he stays there to play or if he returns to Madrid.”
      READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS
      Aguirre went on to add: “At Real Madrid there is some concern about Bellingham’s physical situation.
      “They don’t quite trust what happens with England.”
      Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate has already had to call on three uncapped players following a trio of withdrawals.
      James Maddison pulled out with an ankle injury that will rule him out until the new year, while Lewis Dunk and Callum Wilson are also unavailable.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS

      Chelsea star Cole Palmer could be in line for his first senior cap, while Rico Lewis and Ezri Konsa will also be hoping to earn debuts.
      Levi Colwill could become the latest player to withdraw, having also reported for duty on Monday for assessments on a shoulder injury.
      His Blues team-mate Reece James asked not to be included, having only just recovered from his latest injury issue.
      Raheem Sterling has once again been left out despite his stunning form for Chelsea, but there is a place for fellow winger Marcus Rashford.
      Jordan Henderson and Kalvin Phillips have been selected as part of Southgate’s midfield, despite the former’s move to Saudi Arabia and the latter’s lack of game time for Manchester City.
      England have already qualified for Euro 2024, having earned 16 points from six games in Group C. More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside the incredible story of shock LaLiga leaders who train on rented GOLF COURSE and have ex-Man Utd ace in midfield

      by

      IT has been nearly 20 years since a team other than Real Madrid, Barcelona or Atletico Madrid won LaLiga.The three giants have dominated Spanish football ever since Valencia’s league triumph in the 2003/04 season.
      Minnows Girona are flying at the top of LaLiga… despite training at a rented golf courseCredit: Getty
      Girona were only promoted last year but are ahead of Real Madrid and BarcelonaCredit: Getty
      Atletico have two titles to their name, with Real Madrid winning six and Barcelona landing ELEVEN.
      But their stranglehold on LaLiga could finally be coming to an end.
      That’s because there’s an unlikely club at the top of the table this season.
      Catalan minnows Girona have won nine of their 11 matches so far, losing just once to Real Madrid.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      The club are owned by the City Football Group, who include Treble winners Man City among their list of 12 teams.
      They are even run by Pep Guardiola’s chairman brother Pere.
      And Girona are blowing their rivals away this season despite only gaining promotion to LaLiga last year.
      Manager Michel, a former Rayo Vallecano and Spain U20 midfielder, has worked wonders since his appointment in 2021.
      Most read in Football
      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
      Girona hope to move into a new £22million training complexCredit: Getty
      Manager Michel has helped his side win nine of their 11 matches, suffering just one defeatCredit: AFP
      Having led Rayo and Huesca out of the second tier, he guided Girona to Segunda Division glory on his first go.
      The minnows have not looked back since, finishing a respectable tenth last term ahead of big names like Sevilla and Valencia.
      But it’s this season that has fans and pundits taking real notice.
      Girona, who play at the 14,000-seater Estadi Montilivi, are top of LaLiga and two points clear of nearest challengers Real.
      They have scored more goals than anyone else this season, hitting the back of the net 31 times.
      And they have the fifth-best defence too after shipping just 16 goals.
      Girona’s current stadium holds around 14,000 fansCredit: Getty
      Ex-Man Utd defender Daley Blind is currently starring for the Spanish sideCredit: Alamy
      Indeed, the strikes are coming from all over the pitch, with Ukrainian striker Artem Dovbyk leading the way with seven goals and four assists.
      Winger Savio has four goals and four assists so far, while ex-Man City midfielder Yangel Herrera has netted four times too.
      And despite being 37 years old, veteran Uruguay forward Cristhian Stuani has found a new lease of life with four goal involvements.
      Former Manchester United defender Daley Blind is also enjoying his time after a summer move, with ex-Premier League stars like Eric Garcia and Paulo Gazzaniga impressing too.
      It’s seen Girona record impressive wins over the likes of Villarreal, Sevilla and Getafe.
      Yet what makes their run even more impressive is the fact they train at a rented GOLF course.
      Yangel Herrera and Cristhian Stuani have been key for Girona this seasonCredit: Getty
      Fans are starting to dream of an incredible season in the top flightCredit: Rex
      Girona has leased two pitches for its first team at La Vinya sports complex, owned by PGA Golf de Caldas, with their other sides training at nearby Palau Towers.
      The quirky arrangement has clearly not had a negative effect on Girona’s players and coaching staff.
      And things could get even better for the club once work on a new mega training ground has been completed.
      The £22million complex in the municipality of Vilablareix will play host to all of Girona’s teams, including the men’s and women’s first teams plus the academy.
      Once finished, it will boast seven pitches and a further seven artificial fields.
      A 16th century farmhouse located on the 22 hectares of land will become Girona’s new headquarters too.
      Read More on The Sun
      And the club will look to involve the local community as they make incredible inroads in the Spanish game.
      But with construction currently being delayed by agricultural issues, Girona will continue to plan their stunning LaLiga title challenge from the putting green. More

    • 250 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd and Liverpool handed major Kylian Mbappe transfer boost with Real Madrid move ‘at risk due to financial issues’

      by

      REAL MADRID have sparked a double red alert with claims they can’t afford to sign Kylian Mbappe.Manchester United and Liverpool have been monitoring the PSG striker’s situation as his contract expires next summer.
      Speculation over Kylian Mbappe is hotting up as his contract ends next summerCredit: Getty
      The Telegraph suggest “financial issues” have dented Real’s chances of recruiting their long-time top target.
      Now Premier League giants, including Chelsea, might ponder launching a staggering offer for the France star in January.
      Mbappe, 24, has already rejected a reported offer from Saudi club Al-Hilal worth around 1billion euros (£787m) in wages and a transfer fee close to 300m euros (£262m).
      Back in July the pacy 73-cap hero was given two weeks to extend his current PSG deal – or be sold.
      READ more football
      But he never signed – and instead was retained.
      The French champions will hate risking losing Mbappe for free at the end of the season.
      But Luis Enrique’s Ligue 1 leaders are also determined to mount a serious challenge for the Champions League.
      And assuming they squeeze into the group stages, selling their star player in the January transfer window would put a huge dent in those ambitions.
      Most read in Football
      Real have also denied holding talks with PSG over the ex-Monaco man.
      In a dream world the Spanish giants would love to field Mbappe behind their £115m England midfielder Jude Bellingham.
      But the club said in a statement: “Given information in the media about negotiations between the player Kylian Mbappe and our club, Real Madrid state that this information is categorically false.
      “Negotiations have not taken place with a player who belongs to PSG.” More