Is Melbourne Victory v Real Madrid on the cards?

Iain Strachan

Is Melbourne Victory v Real Madrid on the cards? image
It was confirmed last week the next edition of the pre-season invitational tournament would include an Australian leg, with UEFA Champions League holders Madrid and two other powerhouse European sides - believed to be Manchester City and Internazionale - to be announced in the coming weeks.
Last year Victory broke new ground by hosting a friendly with Premier League giants Liverpool at a packed Melbourne Cricket Ground, the venue for the forthcoming ICC games.
And the coach of the navy blue and whites - like most football fans on these shores - is excited by the prospect of more heavyweight sides heading Down Under.   
"If recent clubs that have come out are anything to go by, I think it's outstanding that we maintain bringing out the bigger clubs and performing against club sides here in Australia," he said.
It remains to be seen if Victory can arrange a standalone friendly against one of the ICC participants.
Madrid did not play a local side during their North American tour earlier this year, but Manchester United took on Major League Soccer club LA Galaxy, fuelling hope a similar arrangement can be made with A-League sides.
However, when asked if he fancied having a crack at Madrid or one of the other heavy hitters, Muscat remain tight-lipped. 
"We'll get through Adelaide tomorrow night and then I'm happy to discuss anything you want," he said with a wry smile, referring to Friday's Round 8 clash at AAMI Park.
"Let's get through Adelaide."
On a more serious note, Muscat expressed his regret at seeing a fellow member of the A-League's coaching fraternity lose his job, with Brisbane Roar sacking title-winner Mike Mulvey last weekend, two days after their 1-0 defeat at the hands of Victory in Melbourne.
"It's a difficult one, I don't think we can be surprised at anything that happens, especially in our code," he said.
"It is disappointing to see someone relieved of their duties, without doubt."

Iain Strachan