Capello axed by Real

Premier League / Editor / 28 June 2007 / Leave a Comment

Real Madrid's decision to sack Fabio Capello is likely to have a bearing on Betfair's market for next season's Primera Liga title.

Despite helping the Bernabeu giants win the league for the first time in four years, speculation had been mounting that the Italian would be leaving the Spanish capital.

The 61-year-old's future had come into question throughout the season after a controversial campaign, which included a conflict with David Beckham over his decision to move to LA Galaxy at the end of the season.

Capello still had two years left to run on his contract, but Real sporting director Predrag Mijatovic believes they have made the right decision for the future of the club.

"We have taken the decision not to continue with Fabio Capello next season," he said. "It was a difficult decision but a unanimous one based on an exhaustive report I made to the board.

"We don't think Capello is the right person to lead Real Madrid into the future given what we want this club to achieve.

"Now we have time to think over who will be the next head coach."

Real are currently the 2.66 second favourites to finish top of the league in the 2007/08 season, with rivals Barcelona heading the outright winner's market at 1.96.

Valencia are next best at 14.5 while UEFA Cup holders Sevilla can be backed at 16.