Ribery denies he wants to quit Bayern

Franck Ribery has denied he wants to leave Bayern Munich for Real Madrid and insists he doesn't want a "controversy" with his club.

The midfielder was quoted last week as saying he'd made up his mind to leave Bayern with Real Madrid his intended destination, but he told Munich's Tz newspaper on Monday: "I have never said that I wanted to go.

"They were not my words, what I said was misinterpreted. I don't understand the whole discussion. I don't want a controversy with Bayern Munich. I would gladly clarify the situation.

"We have to wait and see if there is an offer coming and then sit down and talk. I do not want to say anything wrong right now.''

Ribery was reported as telling a French newspaper last week: "I have decided that I want to leave. It will be Real Madrid or nothing. I will wait to see how things pan out but I would like to hold talks with the Bayern management soon.''

Ribery also denied suggestions today he missed training sessions over the weekend so as not to jeopardise a move by picking up an injury.

"That is a lie,'' he said. "I have a heel problem and also a blister. I want to get back training as soon as possible.''