I just don't understand what Real Madrid is doing. They needed Viera TONS more than they did Owens. They have plenty of fire power but needed some strength in the back.

Yeah, this is really boneheaded by Real.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/click/rss/0.91/public/-/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/3560576.stm

Well I think the decision for Viera to stay was more Viera's than anything else. If he hadn't come out and said he's staying at Arsenal, Real would have ironed out the last minute problems with the deal. That being said, you're 100% correct in not needing Owen. It seems year after year people wait to see if they get help in the back and they never do. Its as if this team isn't concerned with winning the Champions League, only improving their marketability.

They need to inject some realism into their operation. Of course it is nice to have a government bail you out whenever you get into financial trouble.

...owen will become a benchwarmer in Madrid...... Ahhh I would really love to see Morientes playing for Liverpool..but..o well

That is what I just do not undersatnd. Owen is ALL about pace. When he loses ithe is done. Why would Real want him?

Viera's back on my fantasy team! glad to see him stay.

sad to see Owen leave Liverpool. i just don't understand it.