United Bernd by Schuster outburst
A club's success can often be determined by its ability to flex its muscles in soccer's political playground and Real Madrid do it better than most.
However, as the tug-of-war between the Spanish giants and Manchester United over Cristiano Ronaldo recommences, action must be taken to curb Real's flagrant attempts to unsettle the player.
Real coach Bernd Schuster sparked more friction between the clubs over the weekend by claiming it is only a matter of time before Ronaldo moves to Madrid.
"Manchester United are going to find it very difficult to retain Cristiano next summer," Schuster said. "He's full of pride about the idea of coming to Real Madrid. We are full of hope we'll sign him next season.
"He has to be my No. 1 priority. I'll expect Real to do everything in its power to bring me Cristiano. The meetings we held were really positive because the player was genuinely interested in signing for us."
The issue of Ronaldo's possible move to the Bernabeu rumbled on for much of the summer, with him eventually remaining with United after the clubs failed to reach an agreement. But Real was never going to give up that easily and is determined to keep the pressure on United.
Yet Schuster must not be allowed to get away with such direct comments about what has become an explosive situation. FIFA rules clearly forbid proclamations such as this about another team's player and punishment should be meted out swiftly and harshly.
