Macca thrilled with Liga success

Real Madrid winger Steve McManaman was overcome with emotion after the championship celebrations on Saturday evening. "It's been an absolutely amazing day. I simply couldn't have imagined scenes like this."

It might have been Real Madrid's 28th Liga title in their illustrious history, but for McManaman, winning the championship was a totally new experience. "I'm so happy. I can't believe the reaction of people - everyone's gone crazy," smiled the England star.

Over 300,000 supporters gathered in Madrid city centre to salute their heroes, who paraded round the famous Cibeles fountain.

"I was here when we won the Champions' League last year, but this is totally different. For me, it's even more special as I've finally got my hands on a championship medal," added McManaman.

It was also a big day for Guti. The long-haired striker has been the recipient of harsh criticism from the Real Madrid fans in the last few seasons, but after finishing as the club's top scorer with 14 goals, he has finally been accepted at the Bernabeu.

"It's really not been easy winning this title, but thanks to God we've managed to do it." "It's true, the last few years have been difficult for me, but this moment makes up for all those times."

Club president Florentino Perez was delighted to have won the title in his first year in charge. "This is an historic day for us. We were ready for the party, but it was great to win it in style," said Perez.

"Even though we lost the Champions' League title, it's been a great year. We will try to win in Europe again next year, but this has certainly made up for it."

The most memorable sight of the evening was of Luis Figo leaping over the Cibeles with a Real Madrid flag draped over his shoulders and kissing the statue - just a year after moving from arch-rivals Barcelona.