Madrid tie down Spain defender Albiol
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
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Ex-Valencia CF defender Raúl Albiol said he was willing to fight for a place in Real Madrid CF's starting lineup after signing a three-year contract extension with the Liga champions.
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Real Madrid CF defender Raúl Albiol has ended speculation about his future by signing a three-year contract extension that ties him to the Liga champions until 2017.
The 26-year-old centre-back featured in just ten league games last term yet after agreeing the new deal the Spanish international – who boasts UEFA EURO 2008, 2010 FIFA World Cup and UEFA EURO 2012 winners' medals – said he was determined to cement a place in José Mourinho's side.
"I am really happy at Real Madrid and my aim now is to prove that the club haven't made a mistake and that I can be a valuable member of the team. I hope to retire here," said Albiol, who arrived at the Santiago Bernabéu from Valencia CF in a €15m transfer in 2009.
"This season we are going to fight hard for every trophy but especially the Champions League as we are eager to win that one," continued the veteran of 63 top-flight appearances for the Merengues. Madrid begin their 2012/13 UEFA Champions League campaign in the group stage.
