Schuster On Borrowed Time?

Before Real Madrid's visit to Valladolid, it was widely speculated that a poor result would spell the end of coach Bernd Schuster's spell in charge at the Bernabeu. Events following their 1-0 loss in La Liga have suggested that it is only a matter of time before the German starts packing his bags.

Fearing another disappointing result, Ramon Calderon, Predrag Mijatovic and Miguel Angel Portugal all travelled to the Nuevo Zorilla, so that they could analyse the action first hand. During the course of the 90 minutes, the expressions on their faces told a thousand words.

It is their actions (or lack thereof) after the match, however, that provide the clearest indication about Bernd Schuster's future. Mijatovic spent barely 45 seconds in the dressing room, while Calderon did not even bother, preferring instead to to use a rear exit and get into a car taking him directly to capital. Usually, the Madrid supremo makes a habit of visiting the sheds after every match.

It has been thought for some while now that Calderon was Bernd Schuster's only remaining supporter at the club, and with his patience having run out, the German appears to be out of options. As for potential replacements, the most obvious option is Miguel Angel Portugal himself. He has already indicated his willingness to take the reins to Calderon, and his campaign is boosted by his previous experience, having been manager of Racing Santander before Calderon recruited him as technical secretary.

Another option is Michel, the coach of the youth team. However, his lack of top-flight managerial experience is likely to hinder his chances. For Real Madrid, Roberto Mancini and Victor Fernandez are said to be attractive options, but they have not expressed any interest in the job. Juande Ramos has, but there has been no dialogue between the two camps.

A meeting on Monday will decide Schuster's fate, although the actual meeting appears to be a mere formality, given recent events. Calderon's "the manager who starts the season, finishes the season" policy is likely to be promptly discarded, spelling the end for Bernd Schuster at Real Madrid.

Arjun Miglani