• SPAIN ON THE ROCKS? A political and economic analysis for 2012 • IBERIANS OF THE YEAR: The most influential people and groups of 2011 •
The football world champions look likely to head to next year’s European Championship as favourites. An enviable talent pool and Vicente del Bosque’s cunning use of it mean Spain can confidently aim for a third major title in a row.
In just one year, José Mourinho has secured the departure of Real Madrid sporting director Jorge Valdano and increased his control over the club enormously. But in handing the Portuguese so much power, Real Madrid is taking a big gamble.
This year’s tennis clay court season should see Novak Djokovic muscle in on the Nadal-Federer rivalry. The Serb has been in superb form so far this year and the Spanish world number one will have to work hard to stop him stealing the top spot.
This may be the best Spanish team the world has seen, but it is struggling to live up to the heights of its European Championship-winning performances in 2008. The team needs new options and Fernando Llorente might be one man who can provide them.
An old-fashioned locals-only selection policy should be suicide for a modern top-tier team. But Basque side Athletic continue to punch above their weight and compete with wealthier clubs.
The world’s top road cyclist has avoided receiving a lengthy ban for doping from the Spanish federation. But Spain is likely to face increased scrutiny from anti-doping authorities, who fear the country is going too far in protecting its athletes.
Qorreo looks ahead to Spain’s coming year on the sports field and makes some brave –or foolhardy– predictions.
Spain’s clásico showed how far Real Madrid must improve if they are to compete with Barcelona’s beautiful game.
With referees punishing defenders more than they used to and cynical strikers using the tactic of play-acting, life is hard for soccer’s big tacklers.
After several years of success, the Andalusian football team recently came back down to earth. But new coach Manzano might be the man to put things right.
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