Real clarifies McManaman matter
Real Madrid officials stated that England international and Real midfielder Steve McManaman was the only person to request to be out for Saturday's friendly against Sweden.
Real Madrid officials stated that England international and Real midfielder Steve McManaman was the only person to request to be out for Saturday's friendly against Sweden.
The 29-year-old midfielder applied to FA for permission to play in Real's Primera Liga match with Real Zaragoza to be held this weekend.
Real Madrid did not impose themselves, phone or ask the English FA for Steve McManaman not to be in the England side. It was the player who phoned the English FA and they decided to be understanding.
"Real Madrid have a very good relationship with all the national federations, in particular with the English FA, and also with England coach Sven Goran Eriksson," said Real's sports director Emilio Butragueno.
The Spanish champions will also miss the midfielders Zinedine Zidane and Claude Makelele who are with the French squad for Sunday's friendly against Australia in Melbourne. Presently Real has lent its voice to Arsenal, Manchester United and Juventus in protesting their players joining their national sides in the middle of the season.