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Rocky Times For Diarra?
Reports coming out of Madrid suggest that Mohamadou Diarra could be headed for a lengthy spell on the Merengue bench.

The problems are said to have started following some comments made by Diarra during an interview with a French television station, indirectly criticizing Fabio Capello.

He has yet to play for Real Madrid since, and given Capello’s penchant of stamping down on any kind of indiscipline, more action is expected.

Under the circumstances, Fernando Gago’s arrival has hardly helped matters, with the Argentine youngster expected to take up precisely Diarra’s spot in the first eleven.

The only ray of hope is that Capello favourite Emerson is having an indifferent season, something that gives the Mali international a chance of starting alongside Gago.

However, there are also suggestions that Capello will rethink his strategy over the winter, and that Gago and Guti could comprise Real’s midfield, with Beckham starting on the right and helping out with the defensive work.


Goal.com

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Diarra open to Milan move (Stupid Headline Warning!)
Wednesday 14 February, 2007

Milan target Mahamadou Diarra has admitted that he might leave Real Madrid at the end of the season.

The player joined the Merengues from Lyon last year in a £18.5m deal, penning a five-season contract, but has failed to live up to expectations.

“I am proud I moved here and the only thing that matters for me is that the team plays well,” said Diarra in a Press conference.

“I am sorry that I am not doing as well as someone thought I would, despite my efforts. I think I can play much better than this, no matter who is fielded next to me,” added the Mali midfielder.

He is allegedly included in a swap deal with teammates Fabio Cannavaro and Robinho to bring Kaka to the Santiago Bernabeu, although Milan have reiterated that the Rossonero is not for sale.

“In football you can never know what might happen. If Real were to sell me, I would accept their decision.”

In the meantime, Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Ronaldo might be in the starting line-up for Saturday’s match with Siena.

“He is feeling fine, he could play from the start. He will always play next to another striker. I think he could do well with Ricardo Oliveira, they are more compatible than Filippo Inzaghi and Alberto Gilardino,” explained the Coach.

channel4.com

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