The rebirth of Real Madrid

[R9magia]

I feel it's time to discuss the possible reawakening of a giant. You have to believe that if Juventus get relegated, Real Madrid will get at least two of their players (Cannavaro & Zambrotta?), maybe even 3 because of Capello. Cristiano Ronaldo looks like he is on his way as well and there have been talks about Diarra who replaced Essien with ease for Lyon. All of a sudden you have a team that could go from looking old an static to one of the great young teams in the world lead by Robinho, C.Ronaldo and Cicinho, not to mention Soldado (who looked good last season), Julio Baptista and the possible signing of Robben. For now, they haven't signed any player, but can you imagine a Capello lead line-up like this for example:

---------------Casillas---------------
-------------------------------------
---------S.Ramos--Cannavaro--------
-Cicinho----------------------Zambrotta
------------Diarra---------------------
--------------------Guti--------------
-Beckham------------------C.Ronaldo-
-------------------------------------
-----------Robinho------------------
-------------------Ronaldo-----------

You can take off Beckham put C.Ronaldo on the right, Robinho on the left and insert Raul if. You could put in J.Baptista for Guti or a number of other things. This is just an example.

I'm no Madrid fan, but the point is, I think with Capello and some of the signings they're planning (they will get at least some of these players) Real Madrid are back. I just hope (for their own good) that they don't start or find a way to sell David Beckham. He is a good player, but he just doesn't fit in with this kind of team IMO.

Another question is, who do you think they will end up getting? What are their chances of landing Robben? Are they going after Del Horno or any other left-back to replace RC or will they keep him?

[Zico]

Great thread m8.

I read that Emerson, Zambrotta & Canavarro are coming from Juve for 15 mil euros... it was on Marca and my spanish is very poot so I might've misunderstood things.

I heard that Baptista might be sold to Arsenal though :(

I think Robben should be forgotten if they are getting C Ronaldo (2 divers is way too much!!)

Soldado wants out to play first team football (Celta are in the lead I believe)

But yes I'm not sure how Beckham fits but he won't be sold... he's a great player imo but he might not suit what Capello wants - I think he is the only case where the president will interfere with Capello's work.

[Sean Jacobs]

It would make more sense if Juve loans out its younger but great talent players instead of selling them. They would be in shambles fighting for relegation if they come back and not have any of these great finds... :o

[vemerez]

I dont know what to say really. Everybody is going orgasmic over the prospects of all these new players, errrm but I thought we were trying to get rid of the galiticos era???

I want some hidden explosive stuff like cicihno. Or players who REALLY want to wear the shirt and will try hard like robihno. C.Ronaldo:rolleyes: but I understand the need for a replacement, C. ronaldo tho:(

Anyway Im not the guy who is in charge, im only along for the ride. We shall see soon...I just love la liga cant wait!!

[Rev]

I don't think Galacticos are necessarily a bad idea, the only downfall to Real for the past 3 years was Perez involving in sporting matters. When the coach doesn't have much say, I don't think he can do his job properly.

[tringo99]

I heard that Baptista might be sold to Arsenal though :(


He better not be, I don't want Baptista in an Arsenal shirt. He's way over-rated, does he even know what position he wants to play?:confused: :cool:

[R9magia]

^A bit harsh. His he can play DMF/CMF but his ideal position is SS. He has been badly used at Madrid. They even used him as a side midfielder :rolleyes:. Some players just aren't versatile, look at how Ronaldinho looked as a central mid in the WC. I admit he may not be a good fit for Arsenal necessarily, but Baptista is a great player..BUT only in his position.

[Tiranis]

You can take off Beckham put C.Ronaldo on the right, Robinho on the left and insert Raul if. You could put in J.Baptista for Guti or a number of other things. This is just an example.

I'm no Madrid fan, but the point is, I think with Capello and some of the signings they're planning (they will get at least some of these players) Real Madrid are back. I just hope (for their own good) that they don't start or find a way to sell David Beckham. He is a good player, but he just doesn't fit in with this kind of team IMO.?

Well, Beckham has been very important to this team and I don't think he's going anywhere... just don't see it happening, also inserting Raul anywhere at all is madness. The guy hasn't been on form for at least a year, and I'm being a little nice to him there. Raul will stay, but he won't be anything more than a backup player... unless the manager is completely insane. :-\

[nikk86]

Well, Beckham has been very important to this team and I don't think he's going anywhere... just don't see it happening, also inserting Raul anywhere at all is madness. The guy hasn't been on form for at least a year, and I'm being a little nice to him there. Raul will stay, but he won't be anything more than a backup player... unless the manager is completely insane. :-\

I disagree, I reckon he can still be vital to our success, If you saw him play this world cup, he did well, when he got the chance, he's unselfish, his teamwork is second to none, He has amazing vision, ability to pass, yes, his scoring touch hasnt been there for a long time, but to me, he showed signs recently that he can get back to being vital for Real Madrid, and i would love to see it happen.

[Whoah10115]

I think Raul can be great again. And I doubt he'll be on the bench unless he's simply terrible.

[Yiannis]

I think Raul can be great again. And I doubt he'll be on the bench unless he's simply terrible.

I really hope so but i really doubt it.I think he's past it or maybe he doesn't have that hunger for football any more.What is more,he's been like that for the last 2&1/2 years.It's not like he just had a bad season.

[realGaurab]

Real close in on Cannavaro swoop

Link (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/5169176.stm)

[jpm085]

------------------- Iker ----
Cicinho/Salgado - Ramos - Cannavaro - Zambrotta
Beckham - Helguera - Emerson - Robinho
---------------Raul - Ronaldo

A balanced team with 2 def Mid. Like Capello always plays.

[DriveShot]

I heard that Baptista might be sold to Arsenal though :(


They should sell him. He is a square peg in a round hole. His performance was poor last season. He is the black hole where fast breaks come to die.

[z_likewhoa1]

------------------- Iker ----
Cicinho/Salgado - Ramos - Cannavaro - Zambrotta
Beckham - Helguera - Emerson - Robinho
---------------Raul - Ronaldo

A balanced team with 2 def Mid. Like Capello always plays.


I love that formation. I really hope that helguera is given another chance in midfield. He was a fantastic player in the centre and its been a shame seeing him in the backs. Maybe Helguera/Guti though, cos we all love Guti :p

[Unregistered]

Helguera needs to step up. There will be new midfielders coming in, and with his horrific performance last season he really needs to show up and play.

[R9magia]

Hopefully Capello watched enough Brasil games in the Con.Cup and World Cup to realize Robinho isn't a side midfielder :rolleyes: The kid plays like one of the best in the world when he is given the liberty to move around the pitch, like he did in his first ever match for RM against Cadiz. Sure he can play well on the left, but the player he is on the left isn't the player Real payed all that money for.

[May261999]

http://us.i1.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/sp/getty/oly_full.getty-71508672dd006_real_madrid_s_8_39_21_am.jpg

Hate to say it, but he almost looks like a natural for that jersey

[barcalove]

well its not a huge stretch from the black and white of juve to the black and white of real. but booooooo @ fabio in a madrid shirt :( its frightening and.. well it just sucks :(

**sorry off topic** :(

i love those boots.. was checking them out the other day on a footie store site, if i get the chance to play for my team this season i'm thinking of dropping some bank for the soft ground ones. love the black and gold. otherwise i'm probably just going to buy some turf shoes as i believe we are going to be training on turf all year.

http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/yhst-7223899490465_1908_1900711252

[deviant]

cant think of anyone better to fill in the number 5 shirt
http://fabiocannavaro.it/photos/mondiali/images/7336/original.aspx

[R9magia]

Anybody know what number Emerson is getting?

[deviant]

Anybody know what number Emerson is getting?
we'll know in a few hours at his presentation.

[R9magia]

Hmm..I'm thinking it will mostly likely be #17..

[vemerez]

this is kinda crazy now that I think about it Barcalove. I didn't really even pay much attention to him cause I dont watch Serie A that often, until you pointed him out to me and now he goes to your clubs rival, a team I like.

That pic looks like Cannavaro has been in Madrid forever. Hopefully him + Casillas
will give Madrid some well needed ummph!

Does anyone know Woodgate's fate? It be great if we can get an injury free season for everyone that injures frequently.

[fcb_sandy05]

this is kinda crazy now that I think about it Barcalove. I didn't really even pay much attention to him cause I dont watch Serie A that often, until you pointed him out to me and now he goes to your clubs rival, a team I like.

That pic looks like Cannavaro has been in Madrid forever. Hopefully him + Casillas
will give Madrid some well needed ummph!

Does anyone know Woodgate's fate? It be great if we can get an injury free season for everyone that injures frequently.
http://edition.cnn.com/2006/SPORT/football/07/09/spain.woodgate/
I saw this on Sky and you will probably see him make some apperances off the bench for the first part of the season.Canna and Ramos seems the most likely backline atleast for the first few weeks of LaLiga. But I think Woodgate is an excellent CB and when fit him and Canna will be formidable and Ramos has impressed me the most when he has been at RB.

[barcalove]

Ramos has impressed me the most when he has been at RB.
its true... during the world cup i was expecting ramos to be as shit as he was for real at cb.. but he was really good. i should probably take that back, he wasnt shit per say.. but he sure wasnt a great centre back. maybe it had more to do with madrid's defence not being very organised? possibly the lack of a solid defensive leader had something to do with that. with the two fabio's there i fear that the days of madrid's defence being crap may be over :( but thankfully the players they bought to form their defensive core are rather old... cannavaro only has 2-3 years left in him before his age will start to show and emerson is already showing it.

[R9magia]

WTF? No number for Emerson yet? That's odd.

Anyway, unbelievable how Emerson also looks like he's been at Madrid forever

http://www.marca.es/06/07/26/presentacion_emerson/04.jpg
http://www.marca.es/06/07/26/presentacion_emerson/05.jpg
No number yet :confused: :eek:
http://www.marca.es/06/07/26/presentacion_emerson/02.jpg

[mosesmalone]

WTF? No number for Emerson yet? That's odd.

Good question, R9. I think #17 is the only number Madrid have available, so it would have made sense as you suggested. Perhaps they're just waiting for the clearout to begin so some other numbers become available?

[alex163]

I'm sceptical about the signing of Emerson because the matches I have seen him play he hasn't pleased me. It seems that he's to slow and we all know that Primera Division is a lot faster than the Serie A. He either didn't play good in world cup so... Anyway, does someone have something to say about my post, am I wrong or do you agree?

[fcb_sandy05]

I'm sceptical about the signing of Emerson because the matches I have seen him play he hasn't pleased me. It seems that he's to slow and we all know that Primera Division is a lot faster than the Serie A. He either didn't play good in world cup so... Anyway, does someone have something to say about my post, am I wrong or do you agree?
im not the biggest fan of emerson but I can see Capello's logic.
He is slow, thats for sure. But his positional sense and anticipation is still pretty good. He will rarely get forward and just sit in front of the back four. If real lose the ball, they need someone to be in a position to win it back without pushing the backline too high up. That is why Capello went with Emerson.

[vemerez]

Bingo Sandy well said hmm You sure you arent going to come to the dark side like Figo and Ronaldo before you :D

I just sit eager to wait for Messi.
*/vadar voice off

[fcb_sandy05]

Looks like the RVN drama is over.
http://www.cadenaser.com/articulo/deportes/Real/Madrid/ficha/Van/Nistelrooy/csrcsrpor/20060726csrcsrdep_15/Tes/

----------------Casillas-----------------

CicinHO------Ramos----Canna------Carlos

Muppet-------Emerson---???-------RobinHO

------------Ronaldo----RVN

Vemerez:not even if you offer 50 million :)

[R9magia]

I'm sceptical about the signing of Emerson because the matches I have seen him play he hasn't pleased me. It seems that he's to slow and we all know that Primera Division is a lot faster than the Serie A. He either didn't play good in world cup so... Anyway, does someone have something to say about my post, am I wrong or do you agree?
Emerson is a strange player. With Juventus he was outstanding and fcb_sandy05 basically got it right about him. Those are his strengths. With Brasil, however, most of us hate him but that has to do with other things. In Brasil we want players (even at the DMF position) who are technically gifted. Obviously not to the level of an attacking player, but at least to be able to distribute the ball well, good passer, be able to dribble a player, etc. That's why I think Emerson is hated in Brasil. And he proved alot of people right with his WC performance.

In Europe I think it's different. He is a better fit for Juve then for Real, that's for sure, but I think it's a good signing. A big factor is the manager. Cappello has worked with him for ever and knows his strengths and weaknesses better than anyone so he will know how to use him. With any other manager I wouldn't be so sure about this move myself.
Looks like the RVN drama is over.
http://www.cadenaser.com/articulo/deportes/Real/Madrid/ficha/Van/Nistelrooy/csrcsrpor/20060726csrcsrdep_15/Tes/

----------------Casillas-----------------

CicinHO------Ramos----Canna------Carlos

Muppet-------Emerson---???-------RobinHO

------------Ronaldo----RVN

Vemerez:not even if you offer 50 million :)
If this is true, terrible move for Real Madrid IMO.

[vemerez]

Looks like the RVN drama is over.
http://www.cadenaser.com/articulo/deportes/Real/Madrid/ficha/Van/Nistelrooy/csrcsrpor/20060726csrcsrdep_15/Tes/

----------------Casillas-----------------

CicinHO------Ramos----Canna------Carlos

Muppet-------Emerson---???-------RobinHO

------------Ronaldo----RVN



I say what the hell, throw in Guti instead of the ??? and lets see what happens. Its the rebirth Im all for giving it a chance. New system new faces new tropheys!@!!! :D

Sandy come on now, 50 million and you would be more well off than "Muppet" himself ;)

[deviant]

Good question, R9. I think #17 is the only number Madrid have available, so it would have made sense as you suggested. Perhaps they're just waiting for the clearout to begin so some other numbers become available?
hopfully we will clear out Helguera

[oceanic]

---------------Casillas---------------
-------------------------------------
---------S.Ramos--Cannavaro--------
Cicinho------------------------R. Bravo
---------------Emerson--------------
-------------------------------------
Beckham-----------------------Baptista
-----------------Guti/Robinho-------
------------------------------------
----------Ronaldo------Cassano-----

Raul will mostly be on the bench coming on as sub, unless he improves.
Ronaldo will have to improve or he'll just be on the bench, and with Ruud there now, most likley he will be benched until he loses weight..
Guti Robinho and Cassano i think will rotate.

P.S. Has Cassano been sold or is he still there?

[R9magia]

^Raul Bravo will start over R.Carlos? LMAO!!! http://forums.beyondunreal.com/images/smileys/laugh.gif Thanks for this, always good to get a good laugh in the morning..LMAOOO!!! http://forums.beyondunreal.com/images/smileys/laugh.gif

[Yiannis]

Emerson's last season with Juve was awful.He couldn't move his ass.Sadly,i don't think we'll see Emerson of Roma's time again.

[oceanic]

^Raul Bravo will start over R.Carlos? LMAO!!! http://forums.beyondunreal.com/images/smileys/laugh.gif Thanks for this, always good to get a good laugh in the morning..LMAOOO!!! http://forums.beyondunreal.com/images/smileys/laugh.gif

Roberto Carlos is getting old, seriously he shouldn't be playing 90minutes anymore, and i haven't seen raul bravo play that much, and Capello likes his full back to have loads of stamina, as he tends to counter-attack down the flanks, prefering to play a 5-3-2 switching to 3-5-2 formation. Which requires lots of stamina for the wing players. And in the world cup Roberto carlos just looked tired and slow. So unless he's going to take drug boosts or the spanish game is a lot slower than i think, i would guess raul bravo or someone else will be taking carlos's place more and more often. Unless R. Bravo is so terrible beyond imagination.

[R9magia]

Roberto Carlos is getting old, seriously he shouldn't be playing 90minutes anymore, and i haven't seen raul bravo play that much, and Capello likes his full back to have loads of stamina, as he tends to counter-attack down the flanks, prefering to play a 5-3-2 switching to 3-5-2 formation. Which requires lots of stamina for the wing players. And in the world cup Roberto carlos just looked tired and slow. So unless he's going to take drug boosts or the spanish game is a lot slower than i think, i would guess raul bravo or someone else will be taking carlos's place more and more often. Unless R. Bravo is so terrible beyond imagination.
Three things.

1) If Cappello plays a 3-5-2 like you suggested, do you realize this would actually benefit Roberto Carlos? In a 3-5-2 the wing-backs have more liberty to attack knowing they are covered by 3 CBs + a DMF (which in this case would be Emerson). They also have less responsibility defensively for the same reason. This is how Brasil played in 2002. Now that you mention it, this would be an incredible formation for Madrid. Cicinho played the best football of his life for São Paulo as a wing-back in the 3-5-2 and RC would certainly benefit from this. Hopefully for Madrid he will use this formation.

2) With Cappello in charge and the best centre-back (arguably) in world Fabio Cannavaro, Madrid will not be as vulnerable at the back as they have been in recent years. Also, their midfield will actually exist. Emerson (like fcbSandy pointed out) is a player who stands in front of the back four and covers the open spaces. All of this will allow R.Carlos more liberty to attack. In the WC, I don't think his performance was nearly as bad as some people make it out to be. Parreira (the idiot) did not give our wing-backs the liberty they usually have because he was afraid we would suffer defensively since we had basically 4 attacking players on the pitch. This is why RC didn't attack like he usually does.

Even last season RC was probably the most offensive left-back in the world with 5 goals a number of assists and almost 10 offsides with is unheard of for a fullback. He was still effective offensively but the problem was he isn't fast enough anymore to attack and defend like he once could...Add that to the problems Real had in the midfield and defensively and you can see why so many problems were created on his side. With Cappello and the new players, I don't think will be a problem because I believe he will be given the proper coverage defensively. Yes he's old and only half the player he was in his prime, but how many fullbacks today are half of what RC was in his prime? Not many, and certainly none on Real Madrids roster.

3) Raul Bravo is terrible. Nothing more to it then that. Roberto Carlos will be better than him even at the age of 40 and with his left leg tied :p (of course I'm exaggerating, but you get the picture).

[Unregistered]

Raul Bravo is horrible. Roberto Carlos is still a class act, both defensively and offensively. If any of you play as a fullback with attacking duties, you realize that the role of your CBs is HUGE. The fact that Real's defense has been unstable is the CBs, not fullbacks. Carlos and Salgado are still class, and Cicinho will shine even more this season.

----------------Casillas-----------------

Cicinho------Ramos----Canna------Carlos

Becks-------Emerson---Guti-------Robinho

------------------Raul/Cassano----------
------------RVN------------------------


If Real signs Kaka, then Guti most likely will be dropped out. But at the moment he is the best playmaker we've got, and I like him. He had a great season last year.

P.S. Has Cassano been sold or is he still there?

What's the point of selling him? He is 24, talented and was signed very cheap. I don't think Real would have sold him unless they received a giant sum. But with Capello in charge, he is going nowhere.

[R9magia]

-----------------------Casillas---------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------
-------Sergio Ramos---Helguera---F.Cannavaro-----------
---------------------------------------------------------
-Cicinho----------------------Emerson-------------R.Carlos
---------------Beckham---------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------Guti------------------------------
-------------------------------Robinho------------------
--------------Ronaldo--------------------------------

Hmmm..Not bad at all. Impossible to be more balanced then this. Personally I wouldn't start Ronaldo & Ruud together although it could work. SS is Robinho's best position, giving him the ability to move around the pitch (like he did against Cadiz in his first game for Real Madrid) like he does with Brasil...You could put Raul, Cassano or Baptisa in for Guti if you dislike him or you could put RVN for Ronaldo if you dislike him. Looks like a great line-up and formation IMO.

What do you think about the 3-5-2 RM fans?

[Unregistered]

What do you think about the 3-5-2 RM fans?


Never gonna work due to the lack of classy CBs. When you play with 3 defenders at this level, they all have to have classy marking skills. Right now only Cannavaro is in that level. Woodgate doesn't count becuase he only plays 5 games each season. Ramos is good, but too young and inexperienced. Pavon is crap and Mejia is just a decent backup.
I doubt Capello will go for 3-5-2 when he has access to possibly best fullbacks in the world.

[R9magia]

^ You may be right, but again R.Carlos would benefit from a 3-5-2 for reasons I'm sure you already know. Cicinho has always been more of a wing-back then a fullback (his performances in a 3-5-2 for São Paulo is the reason RM bought him). As for the CB's I think you make a good point, but look at Brasil in 2002 for example. Lúcio, Edmilson and Roque Junior? Lúcio is world class, Edmilson is a DMF and Roque Junior.....I dont have to say anything about him do I ? Look at Australia in the past WC. São Paulo won the Libertadores and World Club Cup with the 3-5-2. I just don't think you have to have 3 great CB's to make a 3-5-2 work since you also depend on coverage from 2 wing-backs + a DMF.

EDIT: If Helguera is used as one of the 3 CB's he could also move back and forth between DMF and CB...It would be a flexible formation going from this

-----------------------Casillas---------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------
-------Sergio Ramos---Helguera---F.Cannavaro-----------
---------------------------------------------------------
-Cicinho----------------------Emerson-------------R.Carlos
---------------Beckham---------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------Guti------------------------------
-------------------------------Robinho------------------
--------------Ronaldo--------------------------------

To this depending on the situation of the game

-----------------------Casillas---------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------
-----------Sergio Ramos------F.Cannavaro----------------
-Cicinho-------------------------------------R.Carlos-----
----------------Helguera--------Emerson----------------
--------------------------------------------------------
---Beckham-------------------------------Guti----------
--------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------Robinho-----------------
--------------Ronaldo----------------------------------

Balance, flexibility...I don't know, on paper it doesn't look bad at all.

[mirko1]

-----------------------Casillas---------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------
-----------Sergio Ramos------F.Cannavaro----------------
-Cicinho-------------------------------------R.Carlos-----
---------------------Emerson----------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------
-Beckham------------Guti--------------------Cassano----
--------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------Robinho-----------------
--------------RVN--------------------------------------


I think this is a posible formation Ofcourse I doubt that Capello will play them like that becouse he likes to play with caution, this means he will probably play with 2 defmid. So this could be solution when they play against easier teams. What do you think about this formation?

*I've put Cassano as a left winger becouse Capello plays him like that in the preseason matches and i must say he did very well as a leftmid.

[barcalove]

If Real signs Kaka, then Guti most likely will be dropped out. But at the moment he is the best playmaker we've got, and I like him. He had a great season last year.
oh man.. if you are banking on guti to provide service all year then i, and every la liga fan that doesnt like madrid will be quite happy :)

[deviant]

-----------------------Casillas---------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------
-----------Sergio Ramos------F.Cannavaro----------------
-Cicinho-------------------------------------R.Carlos-----
---------------------Emerson----------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------
-Beckham------------Guti--------------------Robinho----
--------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------Ronaldo-----------------
--------------RVN--------------------------------------

this will be the formation but Calderon did say he would make more signings after the RVN presentation so expect this to change. :p

[opm1s6]

Let's get to Work
http://www.realmadrid.com/addon/img/5ca6c6capelloescudo288p.jpg

should really be:

Let's Buy The Elderly
http://www.realmadrid.com/addon/img/5ca6c6capelloescudo288p.jpg

[phenomenom]

considering Real bought the elderly players at relatively good prices, i can't complain too much :)

[opm1s6]

considering Real bought the elderly players at relatively good prices, i can't complain too much :)
good point.

Gill is not a very good negotiator, oh well. I still think united are better today relative to yesterday.

[deviant]

should really be:

Let's Buy The Elderly
http://www.realmadrid.com/addon/img/5ca6c6capelloescudo288p.jpg
Let's Find Me a Retirement Home
http://www.united.no/var/storage/images/media/images/managere/sir_alex/06/98100-6-eng-GB/06_large.jpg

looks better

[opm1s6]

Let's Find Me a Retirement Home
http://www.united.no/var/storage/images/media/images/managere/sir_alex/06/98100-6-eng-GB/06_large.jpg

looks better

disagree with you, really should be:

Farting Dust Since the Pre-Cambrian

or if that is too visceral :rolleyes: for you try this

Farting Dust Since 1999
http://www.united.no/var/storage/images/media/images/managere/sir_alex/06/98100-6-eng-GB/06_large.jpg


i love that i got rid of your capello sig.

[oceanic]

so when is real's first match?

[deviant]

so when is real's first match?
at the Bernabeu August 27th vs Villarreal

[deviant]

so up until now looks like Reyes might be the next signing
Im hoping the formation looks like this

-------------------Iker----------------------
Cicinho---Sergio Ramos---Cannavaro---Roberto
-----------------Emerson--------------------
Beckham-------------------------------Reyes
-----------------Robinho/Guti----------------
-----RVN/Ronaldo---------Raul/Cassano------

[DriveShot]

-------------------Iker----------------------
Cicinho---Sergio Ramos---Cannavaro---Roberto
-----------------Emerson--------------------
Beckham-------------------------------Reyes
-----------------Robinho/Guti----------------
-----RVN/Ronaldo---------Raul/Cassano------

That would actually be a nice formation, I'd like Capello to try out a 4-3-3 with Reyes too. Even w/o him we could make a nice 4-3-3 still.

[k4mr4n]

Some good signings, especially from Juventus but Real Madrid havent solved their major problem, whos going to replace Zidane. Yes he didnt play to his best of his ability in his last years but his presence was their none the less, if most of you who watch Real Madrid then most of you are aware that he made the team tick and is guy that everyone looks up 2 and as Lizarazu put it once "when we are in trouble, we give the ball to Zidane and he sorts it out".

I can only see Robhino filling that position but sorry you will miss him greatly, ironically if u had Emerson and Cannavaro before playing with Zidane, well that would be a force, but the way I see it is that you have solved some issues but the biggest may undermine you which is the loss of Zidane.

[nikk86]

I think we still need Diarra, if we dont get him, our midfield problems will continue to haunt us.

[oceanic]

their biggest problem in my opinion isn't lack of zizou but lack of pace, it has been evident in the last few trophyless seasons, youth, stamina, pace in the game is severly lacking in real and essential in attacking football, and as a result they can't seem to win matches in the last 20minutes anymore. which all great teams do.

[k4mr4n]

I still think the loss of Zizou, will tell and also for France.

[deviant]

I think we still need Diarra, if we dont get him, our midfield problems will continue to haunt us.
indeed my friend Diarra is must. He really impressed during the french cup match against PSG

[bennmartin]

i seriously cant believe that some people are including helguera. did any or you watch any real madrid games? he lost us some big games!

i think our back is in solid hands with canavarro and added playing time for cicinho. bringing woodgate and soldado off the bench is not bad at all as well.

the midfield is a bit messy. i am sure beckham, emerson in the holding role, and robinho will feature the most. but im not sure guti is the guy to take over in the middle for zidane and i dont see how reyes fits in since robinho likes to play out wide. baptista had a good run at the end of last season but he doesnt really fit. kaka or ribery would have been better players to replace zidane because we do need someone who can distribute the ball in the middle of the field.

up front, we have more than enough firepower and should really score some goals this year. raul is well past his prime but cassano is a good option to sub him or start some games. rvn and ronny are similiar players who know how to find the net when they are healthy.

hopefully, we are stronger at the back and someone can hit at least 20 goals this year.

[DriveShot]

I know there aren't too many la liga watchers here but you should just be careful about the spoilers.

[Lotfilms]

I saw Real's last game, and their way of playing was HORRIBLE.

I lost count of how many back passes there were. Madrid fans know the final score (i'm trying to avoid spoilers here), but against a team like Barcelona, do you think that the slow, too patient style of play will work?

[Clenathan]

I agree. Against Levante, Madrid reminded me of how Chelsea play - ugh. At least they were entertaining last year.
I think they'll mesh once Diarra get comfortable. Rudd is an animal, Cassano looks great, Cannavaro is a rock, Cicinho and Robinho both need to start. I'd really like to see Ramos play on the left or right but it doesn't look like it's going to happen.
They won't beat Barca this year - actually, I don't see Barca getting beat for a while. Madrid is my team but Barca is amazing.

[DMprorR]

The most important thing is that it is finally getting into Capello's head about the position of Cincinho and to let Robinho and Reyes play over some other people on the team :rolleyes: . Hopefully it should turn to more minutes for them on other games and produce the relegation of those players to the bench. For Real what is Capello's problem with a freaking slow team benching the obviously good and fast players and then playing the slow worn out players:confused: ? Hopefully the chemistry of our team would gel and they will become better as they play more games.

[DriveShot]

I definately would like to see Cicinho start instead of Salgado but Capello doesnt want his full backs coming that far forward attacking, which was what Madrid did so well in the past. Robinho on the left wing would be nice too.

[PortugalOle7]

After a few league games and a dismal showing in the Champs League against Lyon:
What formation and starting XI do you feel is the best for Los Galácticos?
Who has disappointed and who has looked the sharpest?
I like the quickness of Reyes and Cassano, and Robinho has impressed me after I grew tired of him real quick last season. Cannavaro looks excellent. Ruud looks good.
I don't understand the need for both Diarra and Emerson on the field at the same time.
And finally, as much as it pains me, Raul cannot continue to start. He is a shell of his former self, at least not in an advanced attacking role.

[Rev]

Here is what I think would be the best formation for Real (if I'm Capello):

Cicinho --- Ramos --- Cannavaro --- Carlos
Emerson/Diarra
Beckham ------------------ Reyes
Robinho/Cassano
Cassano/Robinho ----- Ruud

I don't think two DM is needed unless it is a game vs a big team. Robinho and Cassano can switch around considering they can both play the attacking midfield position and second striker position. So far Emerson has been better
than Diarra in the defensive midfielder role but things might change but for now if I have to pick one between the two, I'd go for Emerson.




When Ronaldo comes back, I hope it'll be (but I highly doubt it):
Cicinho --- Ramos --- Cannavaro --- Carlos
Emerson/Diarra
Beckham --- Reyes
Robinho
Ronaldo --- Ruud

[phenomenom]

yes, i agree with you 2 DMs just doesn't work for Real. so far i have been disappointed with Real's performances, especially in the first half where capello's starting lineup featured emerson and diarra. one of them has to sit on the bence. between emerson and diarra, i have to go with diarra, he's more athletic although he needs more time. he gave away possession so many times but i am convinced he will improve.

[deviant]

When Ronaldo comes back, I hope it'll be (but I highly doubt it):
Cicinho --- Ramos --- Cannavaro --- Carlos
Diarra
Beckham --- Reyes
Robinho
Ronaldo --- Ruud
you read my mind thats just a perfect lineup for us

[Rev]

you read my mind thats just a perfect lineup for us

;) I think that is what most Real fans are thinking of.

[no_frills_billy]

wont be enough to take the crown from barca though.


P.S your fans hate your team:p

[Silas]

wont be enough to take the crown from barca though.


P.S your fans hate your team:p
Coming from a person whose team has paid 35-40 mute fans all over the World? Wow, I think it should be a compliment.


Cicinho----Ramos----Cannavaro----Carlos
Diarra
Beckham---- Reyes
Robinho/Player X
Ronaldo----Ruud

You need to spend to get some one in the mid (player X), someone who plays like Andrea Pirlo, capable of playing defensive and offensive. I don't know if there're many left who can live to the Madrid standards.

Had it been Kaka, everything was there to be taking.

[Rev]

You need to spend to get some one in the mid (player X), someone who plays like Andrea Pirlo, capable of playing defensive and offensive. I don't know if there're many left who can live to the Madrid standards.

Had it been Kaka, everything was there to be taking.

Kaka will definately fit the missing puzzle. As for someone who plays like Pirlo, it will solve the creativity problem that is haunting Real and yes, there aren't many around as you mentioned. A few that comes to mind is Alonso, Pirlo himself, Xavi, Fabregas should do it as well. Problem is they don't come cheap and aren't many around. :(

[deviant]

P.S your fans hate your team:p
what the hell would you know lol are you a Madrid fan? shit team or not we Madristas stick by our boys in white.

[r9ronaldor9]

i would take diara out his performances have been shocking and for 27 million euros he has not done his job. he screws every ball he gets... everytime i watch real i get frustrated to c him start b4 robinho.

[nikk86]

I was expecting a lot from Diarra, and till now, he hasnt done much, i'm starting to worry.:o

Hopefully he picks up his act soon.

[Clenathan]

Diarra HAS to improve - he can't get any worse considering the $ he's worth. I did not see him play for Lyon but he doesn't impress me at all thus far.
I like Guti and Emerson/Diarra in the midfield. Guti looks to attack. Whatever winger is playing at the same time both Diarra and Emerson are playing basically have to dribble up the field themselves or pass to Ruud who then has nowhere to go with the ball.
Raul has not done anything - GET HIM OUT. How many more games before Capello realizes this?
I feel bad for the fans at the Bernabeau - at least with the Galacticos they got entertainment.

[PortugalOle7]

Well we had a Pirlo, Makelele...
Diarra is billed to be the next Makelele and perhaps even better. But so far he has put in some really horrible performances.
This would be my formation:
-------Cicinho----Ramos----Cannavaro----Carlos
----------------------Diarra/Emerson-------------------------
-------Beckham/Robinho----------Guti/Raul--------------------Reyes
--------------------Cassano/Robinho-----Ruud---------------------------

When Ronaldo comes back and he plays(if he must):
-------Cicinho----Ramos----Cannavaro----Carlos-------------
----------------------Diarra/Emerson-------------------------
-------Beckham/Robinho------------------------------Reyes
-------------------Robinho/Cassano---------------------------------------
--------------------Ronaldo-----Ruud---------------------------
Cappello would never play that this last formation but it would sure have a lot of attack. However I can see Salgado replacing Cicinho in certain games where Real play with Becks or Robinho on the wing. Salgado defends better than Cicinho. Cicinho also leaves a huge gap on a counterattack when he is up the field pushing the ball.

[Silas]

Well we had a Pirlo, Makelele...
Diarra is billed to be the next Makelele and perhaps even better. But so far he has put in some really horrible performances.
This would be my formation:
-------Cicinho----Ramos----Cannavaro----Carlos
----------------------Diarra/Emerson-------------------------
-------Beckham----------Guti/Raul--------------------Reyes
------------------------Robinho------------------------------
--------------------Cassano-----Ruud---------------------------

When Ronaldo comes back and he plays(if he must):
-------Cicinho----Ramos----Cannavaro----Carlos-------------
----------------------Diarra/Emerson-------------------------
-------Beckham------------------------------Reyes
---------------Robinho---------Cassano------------------------------
--------------------Ronaldo-----Ruud---------------------------
Cappello would never play that this last formation but it would sure have a lot of attack. However I can see Salgado replacing Cicinho in certain games where Real play with Becks or Robinho on the wing. Salgado defends better than Cicinho. Cicinho also leaves a huge gap on a counterattack when he is up the field pushing the ball.
You want 11 players and a keeper (=12 in total) in your second line-up? :) :D

[PortugalOle7]

I'm a moron, I forgot about the keeper
LOL
Yea, the hell with it no keeper lol.
This would be my formation:
-------Cicinho----Ramos----Cannavaro----Carlos
----------------------Diarra/Emerson-------------------------
-------Beckham/Robinho----------Guti/Raul--------------------Reyes
--------------------Cassano/Robinho-----Ruud---------------------------

When Ronaldo comes back and he plays(if he must):
-------Cicinho----Ramos----Cannavaro----Carlos-------------
----------------------Diarra/Emerson-------------------------
-------Beckham/Robinho------------------------------Reyes
-------------------Robinho/Cassano---------------------------------------
--------------------Ronaldo-----Ruud---------------------------

[Silas]

What if Madrid play with 3 defenders? I mean Diarra and Emerson are infact equal to one defender when played together.


--------------Cicinho----Cannavaro----Carlos-------------

--------------------Diarra--------Emerson----------------

----Beckham---------------Guti--------------Reyes-----

-----------------------Robinho/Raul------------------

--------------------Ronaldo-----Ruud-------------------


Now that will scare the shit out of oppositions.

[PortugalOle7]

What if Madrid play with 3 defenders? I mean Diarra and Emerson are infact equal to one defender when played together.





Now that will scare the shit out of oppositions.
That would be awesome but a)Cappello would never attempt it, he's just not that kind of manager. b)having Cicinho and R.Carlos in a back 3 is asking for trouble. I would go for a more central defender in those two positions.

But we can dream, or at least use the formations in football manager. :D

[bluebottledc]

--------------Cicinho----Cannavaro----Carlos-------------

--------------------Diarra--------Emerson----------------

----Beckham---------------Guti--------------Reyes-----

-----------------------Robinho/Raul------------------

--------------------Ronaldo-----Ruud-------------------

Wow! Bet Sir Alex would kill to have a forward line boasting Ronaldo and Ruud! :rolleyes:

BTW, I went to see Real Madrid "play" six weeks ago in Seattle...Ruud's debut. They never broke sweat in a meaningless exhibition game against DC United. It reminded me of watching the Harlem Globetrotters sparring with another Washington team, the Washington Generals.

Truthfully, it was a privilige to watch the precision passing from the midfield in what effectively became a training session for Ruud....long ball from the half-way line curled around the back four...the forward sprints fifty yards...shoot.

Also enjoyed watching the passion and enthusiasm of the Real Madrid fans who suddenly appeared in Seattle from all over the globe to pack into a 67000 sold out crowd.

Raul received a standing ovation when he was substituted midway through the second half and I was delighted to see Ruud receive similar treatment.

Naturally, Beckham took himself out at half-time, (having fulfilled his contractual obligations) to give himself chance to freshen up before a late evening book-signing at Nike Town in downtown Seattle...well ok i'm making that bit up ... but he sure as hell wasn't sitting with the rest of the team spurring them to greater effort during the second half.

In fact, he could well have been negotiating his next contract ...which i'm willing to bet will be with some MLS team. How do i know? He's dropped more not-so-subtle hints than David James has dropped not-so-difficult free-kicks and I doubt Becks has the capacity to bluff...but of course i'm usually wrong.

Final daydream...Beckham relocates to US, say 2008. Americans welcome him with open arms...make Brooklyn honorary mayor of NYC... Posh replaces Paula Abdul on American Idol...entire Beckham family become US citizens after the obligatory five years...immediately David reunites with Sven Goren Erickson...and in keeping with all Hollywood stories...Beckham goes on to captain the USA to victory in World Cup 2014 in a thrilling 4-3 victory over Big Phil's Portugal. ABC closes its highest-ever rated broadcast with reruns of the magic moment when President Scharzeneigger hands over the coveted World Cup to captain Beckham who in turn hands it over to a grinning Sven Goren Erickson, who in turn rams it up Big Phils rear end.

[Silas]

Hmmm I hate to burst your bubbles but maybe do some counting before you put up your formation, right now you are featuring 11 guys excluding Casillas. :confused:
Sorry to rain on your parade, but I've already mentioned it above.

[PortugalOle7]

Jeez how many times does someone have to mention I'm a moron.
Come on!
LOL

I'm a grad student but I never said I could count :)

[DriveShot]

I just watched the match against Sociedad and wow, the Reyes/Baptista trade has got to be one of the best trades in a long, long time. Both players were pretty stagnant with their respective clubs but after the trade both are looking like they are fitting in very well. I see big things for Baptista as a Gunner and Reyes as one of Los Blancos. I know its still early but I think its pretty safe to say this trade will most likely become permanent after this season.

[phat]

If you ask me this team has too many goal scorers and not enough defending. I have seen 3 games so far and everybody was trying to score. Just because they have the best defender in the world doesnt mean they can neglect playing defensive football.

[Rev]

If you ask me this team has too many goal scorers and not enough defending. I have seen 3 games so far and everybody was trying to score. Just because they have the best defender in the world doesnt mean they can neglect playing defensive football.

Hmmm I think they play defensive enough, Real were constantly passing backwards instead of going forward. Last game was a great example but I do not want to spoil the game for those who hasn't seen it yet.

[AC Milan]

Just because they have the best defender in the world doesnt mean they can neglect playing defensive football.

They dont have Maldini :P

[Rev]

They dont have Maldini :P

We have Cannavaro though. :cool:

[DriveShot]

After his performance against Lyon I would find it hard to call him the best defender in the world but I'm just being harsh because I'm angry at Real's football lately.

[Rev]

Everyone has their bad days and bad games, I'm very faithful in what Cannavaro can do, on the other hand, I'm not so sure about Raul.

[digitalbits]

I know... what is up with raul these days?! :confused:

he is great in all, but it seem that he is just getting to old
i hate to say it but it might just be true..
no wait take it back, pass the love to raul. :)

[deviant]

They dont have Maldini :P
We have Raul Bravo....fear us..

[AC Milan]

We have Raul Bravo....fear us..

:D :D You win!

We have Cannavaro though. :cool:

Nesta. Need I say more?

[Silas]

Nesta. Need I say more?
No. :eek:

[deviant]

Nesta. Need I say more?
I see your Nesta and raise you a Sergio Ramos

[AC Milan]

I see your Nesta and raise you a Sergio Ramos

Dude, Im sitting on a straight flush here... you really wanna do this? Save ur money.

[AC Milan]

My word Madrid are playin sum slick footie 2night! Im happy that Ronaldo is back.