Committed to PEOPLE'S RIGHT TO KNOW
Vol. 5 Num 777 Thu. August 03, 2006  
   
Sports


Real confirm Carlos stay


Brazilian defender Roberto Carlos has decided to stay at Spanish club Real Madrid until his contract finishes, ending speculation about his future.

The Brazilian has one season left on his deal at Real with the option of another depending on the number of games he plays next season.

"The left back, who is at the pre-season training camp in Austria, will complete his contract with the side," Real said in a statement on their Web site on Wednesday.

The 33-year-old met Real sports director Predrag Mijatovic on Tuesday after having been convinced he was wanted by new coach Fabio Capello.

"I spoke with Mijatovic and told him about the offers I had from Chelsea and Fenerbahce. We haven't changed anything with regard to my contract. I want to continue here," Roberto Carlos told the club's Web site.

"Knowing Capello and Mijatovic, who I played with at Real, was important, but it my family's decision that carried most weight."

He had hinted that it was time to move on at the end of last season, saying he had received an offer from English champions Chelsea for a three-year contract.

Turkish side Fenerbahce, now managed by Brazilian Zico, were also reported to be interested in him.

Roberto Carlos, who has won three Champions League titles with Real, retired from international football after the World Cup in Germany.