Real Madrid chief Butragueno: Luxemburgo axe long time coming

Real Madrid vice-president Emilio Butragueno admits the sacking of coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo has been a long time coming.
 
The team's performance in Saturday's 1-0 win over Getafe and Luxemburgo's decision to substitute Ronaldo for Thomas Gravesen was the final straw for the Real board.

Butragueno said: "The results of the team did not meet expectations. And that worried us, the Madridismo and us."

"And that is why we have made this decision. But I can say that the meeting was long (three hours). All have given their opinion and before making the decision we have invited (Arrigo) Sacchi and Ramon Martinez so that they could give their versions."

"It has not been easy. It makes us a little sad because Vanderlei is a professional."

The Real supremo added: "It was not a decision made because of Saturday. It's more a general reason. It is a sad day for us."

"I have said before that this has not been an easy decision, but I insist, I hope that it is positive for Madrid."