Real Madrid hires Pellegrini as head coach

Manuel Pellegrini has left Villarreal to become Real Madrid's new head coach, giving the La Liga runner-up a respected tactician in charge while leaving Villarreal's (and Jozy Altidore's) future in doubt.

Real Madrid parted ways with Juande Ramos after less than a full season at the helm and, after having been linked with Arsene Wenger, Madrid eventually signed Pellegrini, one of the most well-respected managers in Europe.