REAL MADRID go in search of their first silverware in nearly three years and first Copa del Rey crown in almost two decades when they take on arch rivals Barcelona in tonight’s cup final in Valencia.

Bernd Schuster left Real Madrid today by mutual consent with former Sevilla and Tottenham boss Juande Ramos named as his replacement on a six-month contract.

CRISIS is an overused word in football. But when just five players turn up for training, and the manager is nowhere to be seen, it’s reasonable to assume that something isn’t quite right.

Real Madrid coach Bernd Schuster has been given a vote of confidence by sporting director Predrag Mijatovic.

Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is keeping his fingers crossed his latest knee problem will only keep him sidelined until the middle of January.