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One of the most prestigious clubs in world soccer made a managerial change on Monday. Spanish giants Real Madrid fired their manager, Rafa Benitez, after a poor run of form. A legendary player in his time, Zinedine Zidane, will take over the Galacticos as the new manager.
Madrid's president, Florentino Perez, is notoriously known for demanding the absolute best. Whether it's his team's performances or the players he signs. His club has chewed through a who's who of A-list managers in the past decade. From Jose Mourinho to Fabio Capello. He's been unable to find a manager able to handle the constant strain of managing such a high profile club as Real.
Our SB Nation brethren, Managing Madrid (hey, that name makes sense now) have a more in-depth info on the hiring/firing.
Rafa Benitez's job at Real Madrid was doomed from the start [SBN Soccer]
A popular viewpoint that the Spanish manager was inserted into a no-win situation as the Real Madrid manager. You have to wonder what it would take for someone to be able to manage that club consistently and keep everyone important happy. Seems like a fool's errand to me.
The Columbus Crew trio are the latest confirmed participants of the USMNT's annual January camp, joining Jordan Morris who was reported on early Monday. The full list should be out by the weekend as the camp begins on Sunday.I'm particularly excited about Tony Tchani's call-up.
Jordan Morris to train with Werder Bremen amid making club decision [SI]
Speaking of Morris. Yesterday reports emerged that the youngster was all set to sign with the Seattle Sounders. Today a new report saying he'll head over to Germany and train with Werder Bremen before making his all-important decision.
U.S. Soccer names Brad Friedel coach of under-19 team [ESPNFC]
Sure. Whatever. I have no opinion on this. The whole U.S. Soccer coaching landscape is a joke since the report about Jurgen Klinsmann not really being the Technical Director came out. Who knows what to think anymore? Gah, why do I love the USMNT? Hurry up, 2017. I need a new team to live and die with.
What's happening in The A?
The Falcon's sub-par season raises questions about the team's long term plans say our pals over at The Falcoholic.
The Braves and Astros held talks regarding Freddie Freeman a while back, but the talks have since died. In my opinion, they should go all out with this current rebuild and get a huge package for Freeman. As Mike Ehrmantraut once said, "No more half measures."