Benitez full of praise for Rodriguez

Will Ronaldo return to form in Real’s next match?

So, yeah, it looks like this one is going to be smooth sailing the rest of the way for Madrid, thanks in large part to James Rodriguez and his two awesome goals.

“Real Madrid and Inter Milan have agreed the transfer of Mateo Kovacic, who will be tied to the club for the next six seasons”, Madrid said in a statement.

The Brazilian has missed Barca’s four competitive games to date due to a bout of the mumps, but has trained all week and will boost a Barca squad still without a number of key players.

Betis had a great opportunity to at least mark their visit to the Bernabeu with a consolation when Raphael Varane was penalised for upending Jorge Molina.

Bale added the gloss late on after picking up the ball in the Betis half and then sending his long-range thunderbolt in off the post to seal the three points. The Colombian has a good record in front of goal and could be pressing for a return.

“I just want to enjoy the 5-0”.

Bale turned provider at the start of the second period for Karim Benzema to head home the third before Rodriguez produced another spectacular effort with an overhead kick to make it 4-0.

Benitez is unconcerned, however, shrugging: “Cristiano had the most attempts on goal of all of our players”.

According to West Ham United co-chairman David Sullivan, in an interview with the Evening Standard, Rafael Benitez came within three hours of becoming the club’s new manager this summer, before making a U-turn and joining La Liga giants Real Madrid.

Living in one of the main centers of Spain’s bull-fighting culture, Seville natives know a thing or two about dealing with the angry beasts but Real Betis coach Pepe Mel would rather not have to in La Liga on Saturday. Bale has been favoured as the central attacker by Benitez this season, with Ronaldo out on the left wing.

Gareth Bale has spoken of his appreciation of the support he receives from Real Madrid’s fans, in his first ever Spanish language interview which will be broadcast on Thursday.

James Rodriguez (Real Madrid): Bale also enjoyed a sensational game in what was a fun match for Real Madrid’s forwards, but James Rodriguez was the standout performer for the home side.