Real dismisses Valdano in victory for Mourinho

MADRID - Real Madrid fired Jorge Valdano as director general on Wednesday in what was seen as a victory for coach Jose Mourinho, who had repeatedly clashed with the former Argentine international last season.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said Valdano's position would be terminated as part of a restructuring aimed at giving the club a more "English" style that would grant Mourinho more autonomy over decision-making.

Perez dismissed media reports the Portuguese coach had demanded Valdano be dismissed as a condition for his staying on at the club.