Pedja: Real Madrid not scared of Barcelona spending spree

Real Madrid sports director Pedja Mijatovic insists confusion over coach Fabio Capello's future has not handcuffed them from acting in the summer market.

At yesterday's announcement of the dismissal of Capello, Mijatovic denied claims that Real had been caught out by free-spending Barcelona since the end of the season.

"We are the most important team in the world. As sport director I must plan the future of the club. With respect to signings, we have a prepared plan and we are advancing on the subject," said Mijatovic.

"The sport planning does not depend exclusively on the trainer. It is evident that he must have some influence on the matter, but we are working all year on a plan that we know quite clearly. There will be no problem at the time of discussing transfers with the coach to form a very competitive team."

"In addition, we are not scared of the signings other teams have made. We have a plan."

Mijatovic confirmed the departure of fellow football director Franco Baldini and insisted he had the backing of the club's board.

"It's not true that I've thought about resigning," said Mijatovic. "Capello was questioned by the media and the fans demanded his departure."

Asked about Bernd Schuster as Capello's likely replacement, Mijatovic added: "I know him well and we get along. We don't speak every day, but it's also untrue that we don't get along."

"We are not scared to plan the future with a new trainer, who will reunite everything that we need to take us to success in all competitions. In the future you will see if we are right or not."