Three excellent matches are on tap for this week-end in Spain, England and Italy.
Atletico Madrid – Real Madrid
Saturday’s Madrid derby comes at a critical moment for the hosts, while Real is in no position to drop points, particularly to bitter rivals. Wounded Atletico have shown signs of life under new coach Quique Flores, on display in the mid-week 2-2 draw against Chelsea. Champions League ambitions gone, Atletico must concentrate all of its tremendous talent on turning around a dismal La Liga start. For Real, consistency is key. Loss to Atletico reignites the pressure on Pellegrini.
Chelsea – Manchester United
A match that requires no billing. With lots of stars in the mix and both teams in good form, we shall see who delivers on a charged day Stamford Bridge.
Inter – Roma
An encounter with many subplots. Mourinho’s Inter are home in good spirits after escaping from Kiev with three golden Champions League points. So are Inter fans, who have been called en masse by Mourinho for this match. Roma arrives in Milano fresh off a Europa League win against Fulham and will play its chances with confidence. Inter is at full strength, no Totti for Roma, Burdisso will go against his former teammates.