REAL RUBBISH RAFA`S CLAIMS
Posted 18/04/07 15:33EmailPrintSave
Real Madrid have denied Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez's claims they made him an offer to become their new coach.
It has long been thought that Real wanted Benitez to replace Fabio Capello in the summer, with sources close to the Spaniard insisting he was their first choice before they turned their attention to Chelsea's Jose Mourinho.
And as Benitez prepared his side for the clash with Middlesbrough, he suggested he had rejected a huge offer.
He said: "I said no to Real when they offered me more money than I get here, even though there maybe were greater expectations.
"Madrid may be my town, but I am happy here and pleased with everything. We want to stay because of the new ideas and the new owners are very exciting."
However Real have now issued a statement denying Benitez's claims.
It read: "In regard to the statements attributed to current Liverpool coach Rafael Benítez...Real Madrid wish to deny any negotiations with said professional, or any other, concerning his possible incorporation to the Club next season.
"Real Madrid, as reiterated by the President and Board Directors, are counting on prestigious coach Fabio Capello, who still has two years remaining on his three-year contract."