Real Madrid's Capello won't survive Barcelona defeat

Michel will step in as coach should Real Madrid lose to Barcelona on Sunday.

For now, Fabio Capello is safe. The Italian won't consider resigning and Real refuse to dismiss him so close to El Classico. However, should Real be beaten, then Capello will be asked to step down. Michel, currently in charge of Real Madrid's Castilla, will take temporary charge to the end of the season.

Real president Ramon Calderon held a series of meetings yesterday with his board and technical staff, including underfire sports director Pedja Mijatovic, with Capello the main topic of conversation. It was agreed that they would stick with the Italian until season's end - however, should Barca win on Sunday, then Capello would be instantly sacked. Sources confirmed the decision to AS today.

Interestingly, Real's players will be able to duck the immediate flak from Capello's dismissal - should it happen - as they are scheduled to have two days off after El Classico.