Real drop Ronaldo for derby

Ronaldo's mooted exit from Real Madrid may have moved a step closer on Friday.

Ronaldo's mooted exit from Real Madrid may have moved a step closer on Friday with confirmation of his absence from the side to face rivals Atletico Madrid.

Real will begin the new presidency of Fernando Martin without the Brazilian who was left out of Saturday's line-up for what coach Juan Roman Lopez Caro claimed were 'tactical reasons'.

Having been criticised by his own supporters following a disappointing season, omission from the local derby will come as a major blow to Ronaldo.

The dropping of the 'Galactico' could also usher in a new era for Real with Martin already emphasising his determination to re-establish Real as Spain's top club.

The 29-year-old, who has been linked with a move to Serie A giants Milan and Internazionale in recent weeks, has scored 10 goals in 17 Liga appearances for Real this season.