New Real president gets tough with players
(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-03-03 09:20

"We have already started planning for next season and I hope to have the squad sorted out by June 30. Money is no object. We can go out and buy any players we want that would please our fans, thanks to Perez's legacy."

"But we know just having the best 10 players in the world does not necessarily mean you have the best team."

On the future of coach Juan Ramon Lopez, Martin refused to be drawn.

But he hinted at a possible return in some capacity for Vicente Del Bosque, who led the club to Champions League victory in 2003 -- their last major title -- and former player Fernando Hierro.

RALLYING CALL

With the club out of the King's Cup, behind in their Champions League first knockout round tie, and trailing league leaders Barcelona by 10 points, Martin issued a final rallying call for this season.

"I am convinced Perez's resignation will be the jolt the club needed and that he wanted to give, " said Martin.

"This is the third year that the club has not performed as we would hope but we still have time to save this season.

"I want us to continue fighting in the league and in Europe, and hope that we obtain at least a Champions League place for next season."

Real, who are third in the Primera Liga, face in-form city rivals Atletico in the Bernabeu on Saturday, and travel to London to play Arsenal in the Champions League next Wednesday.