La Liga giants Real Madrid have removed a miniature Christian cross from their badge after signing a three-year deal with an Abu Dhabi bank.

The original crest design has had a small cross at the very top of the badge since it was designed in 1931.

But after agreeing the deal with the National Bank of Abu Dhabi, it is believed that the club does not want to offend Muslim sensibilities in the Middle East according to Spanish sports daily Marca.

Marca have been critical of the move, saying that "from the looks of things, the club is willing to compromise on aspects of its identity in pursuit of these new fans."

However, the original club logo with the cross will still be used in Europe.