Veteran goalkeeper
Bodo Illgner intimated on Wednesday that he could leave Real Madrid at the end of the season – despite having another year left on his contract.
Illgner has since long lost out on the No 1 jersey with
Iker Casillas and
Cesar both ahead him of the queue. And the former Germany goalkeeper revealed on Wednesday that he had had a meeting with sports director Jorge Valdano.
Illgner said:
"I have told the club my point of view and now the directors have to decide. I can't reveal anything but Real Madrid already know what I think about the situation."
"I don't know if the friendly match against Getafe will be my last match in a Real shirt but I hope to solve or change my situation for next season."
The game against Mostoles was only
Illgner's second this term – the first one was another friendly against
"Playing is better than being on the bench and that's my opinion," Illgner said, sparking speculation that he is retiring.
Illgner formed an immediate understanding with the Real back four when he joined the side in 1996. An injury in the latter part of the 1999-00 season gave young
Iker Casillas the opportunity to establish himself at only 18 years of age.
Doubtless the incredible success of
Casillas has come as much of a surprise to
Illgner as it has to everyone else. Fit again,
Illgner found himself on the bench and transfer rumours soon started.