Thursday, 2 August 2012

Roberto Carlos Plans Testimonial


Former Real Madrid left-back Roberto Carlos is keen to hold a testimonial between the Spanish champions and Anzhi Makhachkala where he ended his career.

Roberto Carlos, 39, spent 11 seasons with Real and became arguably the best left-back in the world before leaving for spells at Fenerbahce, Corinthians and finally in Russia where he chose to finish his career at Anzhi.

Now a director at the North Caucasus club, the Brazilian is keen to give the people of Makhachkala, where 14 people were killed and 122 wounded in suicide bombings in May, a chance to see one of the world's best teams in action.

"We have already held talks about a game between Real and Anzhi with Real president [Florentino] Perez," he revealed. "We need to set up a date that suits both clubs. I want this match to take place in Makhachkala."

Anzhi face Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem in the Europa League third qualifying round on Thursday, but have been banned from playing at their home stadium in Makhachkala after the bombings.

Roberto Carlos played 25 games for Anzhi in the 2011-12 season before being removed from the club's official squad in March, with the team qualifying for the Europe following a fifth-placed finish.

Confirming the player's retirement, former Russia coach Guus Hiddink, who was appointed as Anzhi's manager in February said: "Roberto had been a world class player, but unfortunately he doesn't play any more.

"Fortunately, Roberto will now take up a role to develop this club for the good of the game in the Dagestan region and the whole of Russia."



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