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Liverpool have 'eyes open' in the market as Klopp looks for a defender
Jurgen Klopp insists Liverpool have their “eyes open and are watching the market” as they seek solutions to their injury crisis. The Reds have an astonishing 11 players are unavailable for Friday's FA Cup clash against Exeter and Klopp has no fit centre-backs, apart from the inexperienced Tiago Ilori following the cancellation of his loan spell with Aston Villa.
The German is also without striking options beyond Christian Benteke, while his midfield is missing the influence of Philippe Coutinho and Jordan Henderson.
“The truth is that, of course, we have to react to the situation,” Klopp said at Melwood on Thursday.“But it’s not only to take new players because it is difficult enough in this moment to find players.
“You have to find quality players who are in a difficult situation at their clubs, or maybe the club that needs money. We have to try to find the perfect solution, but that’s not too easy. We have our eyes open and are watching the market, that’s the truth.”
Liverpool have a shortlist of defenders they’re looking at, which features Inter’s Andrea Ronacchia and Borussia Dortmund’s Neven Subotic, neither of whom are currently first-choice at their clubs.
However, Bologna have long been in negotiations about loaning Ronacchia, while Klopp’s former side are not willing to lose players in January. Joel Matip, who is stalling on a contract at Schalke, has been identified as a summer target on a free.
Given the challenges of finding a target who could immediately slot into the starting line-up, it would make sense for the 48-year-old to push for a defender he knows well from Germany.
While trying to find the “perfect solution” in the market, Liverpool have recalled wingers Sheyi Ojo and Ryan Kent from loan spells at Wolves and Coventry respectively.
Defender Ilori is training with the Merseysiders again after failing to play a single minute during his temporary spell at Villa, who were desperate to cancel his season-long deal.On the return of the trio, Klopp explained: “We thought about nothing else over the last few days but about what we can do in our situation.
“And the first thing is that we take back our own players, especially if they do not have the perfect situation at the clubs where they are on loan, like it was with Kent, Ojo and Tiago. “Maybe not everything will be fixed, but these our own players and we have a situation.
“In my opinion, and it’s what we’ve spoken about before and we will speak about it in the summer again, usually the best skilled and the biggest talents should be at their own club so they can play together in the Under-21 and develop together as a team. “If the situation is like it is now, or they make big steps then you can pick them and they’re always around you. That’s how I think it should be and we’ll think about this in the summer.
“We’ve taken them back now, and it’s a big chance for the boys, but no pressure - because they are young. If they do well, they can make quickly the next step, if not then they still have time which is a good thing. That is what we’ll tell them, and we want to work with them so we’ll see what happens.”
Asked whether he will be looking to bring back more players who are out on loan this month, Klopp said: “I’m not too sure in this moment, but it’s possible. We have to wait. It’s about the position at the club they are on loan and our position - it must work together.
“It’s not just about bringing players back and then we have 24 for one position, we don’t want that. Offensive wingers and a centre-half was really interesting for us at the moment, that’s why we made the decision.”
Jurgen Klopp insists Liverpool have their “eyes open and are watching the market” as they seek solutions to their injury crisis. The Reds have an astonishing 11 players are unavailable for Friday's FA Cup clash against Exeter and Klopp has no fit centre-backs, apart from the inexperienced Tiago Ilori following the cancellation of his loan spell with Aston Villa.
The German is also without striking options beyond Christian Benteke, while his midfield is missing the influence of Philippe Coutinho and Jordan Henderson.
“The truth is that, of course, we have to react to the situation,” Klopp said at Melwood on Thursday.“But it’s not only to take new players because it is difficult enough in this moment to find players.
“You have to find quality players who are in a difficult situation at their clubs, or maybe the club that needs money. We have to try to find the perfect solution, but that’s not too easy. We have our eyes open and are watching the market, that’s the truth.”
Liverpool have a shortlist of defenders they’re looking at, which features Inter’s Andrea Ronacchia and Borussia Dortmund’s Neven Subotic, neither of whom are currently first-choice at their clubs.
However, Bologna have long been in negotiations about loaning Ronacchia, while Klopp’s former side are not willing to lose players in January. Joel Matip, who is stalling on a contract at Schalke, has been identified as a summer target on a free.
Given the challenges of finding a target who could immediately slot into the starting line-up, it would make sense for the 48-year-old to push for a defender he knows well from Germany.
While trying to find the “perfect solution” in the market, Liverpool have recalled wingers Sheyi Ojo and Ryan Kent from loan spells at Wolves and Coventry respectively.
Defender Ilori is training with the Merseysiders again after failing to play a single minute during his temporary spell at Villa, who were desperate to cancel his season-long deal.On the return of the trio, Klopp explained: “We thought about nothing else over the last few days but about what we can do in our situation.
“And the first thing is that we take back our own players, especially if they do not have the perfect situation at the clubs where they are on loan, like it was with Kent, Ojo and Tiago. “Maybe not everything will be fixed, but these our own players and we have a situation.
“In my opinion, and it’s what we’ve spoken about before and we will speak about it in the summer again, usually the best skilled and the biggest talents should be at their own club so they can play together in the Under-21 and develop together as a team. “If the situation is like it is now, or they make big steps then you can pick them and they’re always around you. That’s how I think it should be and we’ll think about this in the summer.
“We’ve taken them back now, and it’s a big chance for the boys, but no pressure - because they are young. If they do well, they can make quickly the next step, if not then they still have time which is a good thing. That is what we’ll tell them, and we want to work with them so we’ll see what happens.”
Asked whether he will be looking to bring back more players who are out on loan this month, Klopp said: “I’m not too sure in this moment, but it’s possible. We have to wait. It’s about the position at the club they are on loan and our position - it must work together.
“It’s not just about bringing players back and then we have 24 for one position, we don’t want that. Offensive wingers and a centre-half was really interesting for us at the moment, that’s why we made the decision.”
Coutinho & Lovren to miss Liverpool's crunch clashes with Arsenal & Man United
Philippe Coutinho will miss Liverpool’s Premier League showdowns with Arsenal and Manchester United with the playmaker facing a three-week spell on the sidelines.
The Brazilian had to be replaced after 18 minutes of the club’s League Cup victory at Stoke after injuring his hamstring and will need just under a month to shake off the problem.
Defender Dejan Lovren also limped off in the first half of that encounter with the same issue and will also sit out Wednesday’s game against Arsenal as well the visit of Louis van Gaal’s men to Anfield four days later.However, the Croatian is expected to return to action ahead of the trip to Norwich as the extent of his setback is not as serious as Coutinho’s.
Kolo Toure, who suffered from cramp at the end of the first leg of the semi-final at the Britannia, is ruled out of Friday’s FA Cup third-round tie with Exeter, but will be back in the squad for next week’s testing fixtures."Phil is a bit more serious than Dejan, [who is] more serious than Kolo, but none of these players will be available for tomorrow," Jurgen Klopp revealed at Melwood on Thursday.
"It's always with muscle injuries you don't know exactly. "Kolo was a cramp, that's not a problem, but after three days it's not possible to play the next game. But, for sure, next week should not be a problem.
"With Dejan the situation is I think he will be available after Manchester United."And Phil needs maybe one, two weeks longer, so three weeks [out] for Phil.
"But it's muscle injuries so you don't know exactly. It's really rare that it's quicker, sometimes it's longer, so we will see how long it takes."
With 11 players unavailable to Klopp, the manager is set to field a young line-up at Exeter.“The FA Cup is a great tournament, we know about it, but we have to make the decisions for the Liverpool team, for my team, and so we have to make changes,” he said.
“That’s all I can say because at this moment I don’t know who is available.
“We will train with the team that will play tomorrow and then we will see what happens, but of course we’ll make changes.”
Philippe Coutinho will miss Liverpool’s Premier League showdowns with Arsenal and Manchester United with the playmaker facing a three-week spell on the sidelines.
The Brazilian had to be replaced after 18 minutes of the club’s League Cup victory at Stoke after injuring his hamstring and will need just under a month to shake off the problem.
Defender Dejan Lovren also limped off in the first half of that encounter with the same issue and will also sit out Wednesday’s game against Arsenal as well the visit of Louis van Gaal’s men to Anfield four days later.However, the Croatian is expected to return to action ahead of the trip to Norwich as the extent of his setback is not as serious as Coutinho’s.
Kolo Toure, who suffered from cramp at the end of the first leg of the semi-final at the Britannia, is ruled out of Friday’s FA Cup third-round tie with Exeter, but will be back in the squad for next week’s testing fixtures."Phil is a bit more serious than Dejan, [who is] more serious than Kolo, but none of these players will be available for tomorrow," Jurgen Klopp revealed at Melwood on Thursday.
"It's always with muscle injuries you don't know exactly. "Kolo was a cramp, that's not a problem, but after three days it's not possible to play the next game. But, for sure, next week should not be a problem.
"With Dejan the situation is I think he will be available after Manchester United."And Phil needs maybe one, two weeks longer, so three weeks [out] for Phil.
"But it's muscle injuries so you don't know exactly. It's really rare that it's quicker, sometimes it's longer, so we will see how long it takes."
With 11 players unavailable to Klopp, the manager is set to field a young line-up at Exeter.“The FA Cup is a great tournament, we know about it, but we have to make the decisions for the Liverpool team, for my team, and so we have to make changes,” he said.
“That’s all I can say because at this moment I don’t know who is available.
“We will train with the team that will play tomorrow and then we will see what happens, but of course we’ll make changes.”
Arsenal star Mesut Ozil named best ‘German abroad’
Mesut Ozil has been named the best “German abroad” by magazine Kicker after his stunning campaign for Arsenal, while Bayern Munich have dominated the rest of the awards.
The 27-year-old has racked up an incredible 16 assists already this season in the Premier League, with his efforts recognised in the publication’s biannual German football rankings.
It ranks each player by position in the Bundesliga and also includes German footballers who are playing in foreign countries, dividing them into four categories: world class, international class, players of note and players in focus.
Ozil was the only German export to be put in the international class bracket, beating the likes of Toni Kroos, Shkodran Mustafi, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Sami Khedira.
“The midfield star just missed out on the world class category due to his weak start to the season,” explained the magazine.
On Ozil’s categorisation, Germany legend Lothar Matthaus added: “[He's] too inconsistent. I expect even more from him. Now and then, he hides and you can't see him just like in the 4-0 defeat at Southampton.”
Meanwhile, Bayern cleaned up in the Bundesliga rankings, with seven players being named the best in their position: Manuel Neuer, Phillip Lahm, Jerome Boateng, Xabi Alonso, Douglas Costa, Thomas Muller and Robert Lewandowski.
Mesut Ozil has been named the best “German abroad” by magazine Kicker after his stunning campaign for Arsenal, while Bayern Munich have dominated the rest of the awards.
The 27-year-old has racked up an incredible 16 assists already this season in the Premier League, with his efforts recognised in the publication’s biannual German football rankings.
It ranks each player by position in the Bundesliga and also includes German footballers who are playing in foreign countries, dividing them into four categories: world class, international class, players of note and players in focus.
Ozil was the only German export to be put in the international class bracket, beating the likes of Toni Kroos, Shkodran Mustafi, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Sami Khedira.
“The midfield star just missed out on the world class category due to his weak start to the season,” explained the magazine.
On Ozil’s categorisation, Germany legend Lothar Matthaus added: “[He's] too inconsistent. I expect even more from him. Now and then, he hides and you can't see him just like in the 4-0 defeat at Southampton.”
Meanwhile, Bayern cleaned up in the Bundesliga rankings, with seven players being named the best in their position: Manuel Neuer, Phillip Lahm, Jerome Boateng, Xabi Alonso, Douglas Costa, Thomas Muller and Robert Lewandowski.
Koeman insists Mane will not leave Southampton
Southampton manager Ronald Koeman insists Sadio Mane will not join Manchester United this month.
Louis van Gaal's interest in the 23-year-old was rebuffed during the previous transfer window but Koeman's decision to drop Mane for the defeat to Norwich City has reignited speculation of a January exit.
Koeman, however, says the punishment - issued due to Mane turning up late for a team meeting - is firmly in the past and says the forward is happy to stay at St Mary's Stadium.
"Mane is not in a different situation than last week. He's a Southampton player, he likes to play for Southampton, he's not for sale," Koeman said on Thursday.
"Of course I punished him because you have rules in the team, and it was a big mistake. He made his excuse to everybody and that's not behind us. The rest is internal discussions about how to handle these situations.
"He will start on Saturday, no problem."
Koeman also dismissed the idea that Mane and Victor Wanyama - who was sent off for two reckless challenges against Norwich and has been linked with both Tottenham and Arsenal - have been angling for a transfer with their ill-discipline.
"It's too easy to mention after the mistake of Sadio, or the second yellow, that the players are showing that they like to move," he added.
"It's not like that. They know their position in the club and what we think. There's no reason to doubt that.
"If there's any player thinking that, if his behaviour is not good and that makes it more easy [to leave], then I'll put him in the stands before the end of the contract. That's not the way to do your job as a football player."
Southampton face Crystal Palace in the FA Cup on Saturday before home games with Watford and West Brom in the Premier League, and Koeman is desperate to return to winning ways over the next week in order to avoid an uncomfortable second half of the season.
"We've had two defeats in a row after a great win over Arsenal. We need to win, to make the team stronger," he added.
"Crystal Palace are a very strong team but we can beat them.
"We have a big week coming up. We need points because, if not, it will be a difficult end to the season because we're close to the bottom teams.
"I'm more worried if we don't create chances, if we play bad football. Then it's really the moment to be worried about this season."
Southampton manager Ronald Koeman insists Sadio Mane will not join Manchester United this month.
Louis van Gaal's interest in the 23-year-old was rebuffed during the previous transfer window but Koeman's decision to drop Mane for the defeat to Norwich City has reignited speculation of a January exit.
Koeman, however, says the punishment - issued due to Mane turning up late for a team meeting - is firmly in the past and says the forward is happy to stay at St Mary's Stadium.
"Mane is not in a different situation than last week. He's a Southampton player, he likes to play for Southampton, he's not for sale," Koeman said on Thursday.
"Of course I punished him because you have rules in the team, and it was a big mistake. He made his excuse to everybody and that's not behind us. The rest is internal discussions about how to handle these situations.
"He will start on Saturday, no problem."
Koeman also dismissed the idea that Mane and Victor Wanyama - who was sent off for two reckless challenges against Norwich and has been linked with both Tottenham and Arsenal - have been angling for a transfer with their ill-discipline.
"It's too easy to mention after the mistake of Sadio, or the second yellow, that the players are showing that they like to move," he added.
"It's not like that. They know their position in the club and what we think. There's no reason to doubt that.
"If there's any player thinking that, if his behaviour is not good and that makes it more easy [to leave], then I'll put him in the stands before the end of the contract. That's not the way to do your job as a football player."
Southampton face Crystal Palace in the FA Cup on Saturday before home games with Watford and West Brom in the Premier League, and Koeman is desperate to return to winning ways over the next week in order to avoid an uncomfortable second half of the season.
"We've had two defeats in a row after a great win over Arsenal. We need to win, to make the team stronger," he added.
"Crystal Palace are a very strong team but we can beat them.
"We have a big week coming up. We need points because, if not, it will be a difficult end to the season because we're close to the bottom teams.
"I'm more worried if we don't create chances, if we play bad football. Then it's really the moment to be worried about this season."
Januzaj faces uphill battle to resurrect Manchester United career
Two seasons ago he was the single bright spot amid the wreckage of Manchester United’s season as the David Moyes experiment went badly wrong. A host of dynamic, match-defining displays ensured Adnan Januzaj’s rookie season would be one to remember, and he looked set to be a key part of the club’s future for some years to come.
But the Belgian has returned to Old Trafford this week facing a fight to save his reputation following the complete failure of a loan move to Borussia Dortmund which was supposed to blast him back into the limelight.
It is fair to say things haven’t gone well for Januzaj since Louis van Gaal handed him Ryan Giggs’s famous No.11 jersey upon the Dutchman’s arrival in Manchester. He was afforded only seven league starts in 2014-15, with just three coming after mid-November, as the United boss largely overlooked the 20-year-old when seeking answers to his issues in attack.
Even when Januzaj was given four straight starts at the beginning of this season, he never convinced his manager. His match-winning goal at Aston Villa in August should have been a turning point, but instead Van Gaal underlined his player’s deficiencies after the match.
“He scored a wonderful goal, but all the other aspects of football you have to show,” said the 64-year-old. “I’m pleased because with this goal we have won, but there is more than scoring a goal. There were a lot of unnecessary ball losses.”
For his part, Januzaj appealed for more game time. “I hope to have more games in my legs and hopefully score more goals," he said. "It was only rumours regarding a move. I’m happy here. I’m going to fight for my place.”
Yet three curtailed appearances later he was hauled off at half-time of the 4-0 win away to Club Brugge in a Champions League play-off and it was enough to persuade Januzaj he would get more minutes elsewhere.When Dortmund came knocking, Januzaj leapt at the chance for a change of scenery despite Van Gaal’s insistence that he wanted him to stay.
“He has to compete with higher-level players," Van Gaal said. "I want him to play all the matches, and that's why I wanted to play him in the Premier League, but he chose Borussia Dortmund."
But in Germany things have gone from bad to worse for Januzaj. Six substitute's appearances were all he has to show for his Bundesliga experience over the past four months, with the Europa League providing his only opportunity for starts. A total return of 516 minutes of play and no goals was not exactly what any of the three parties had in mind.
While the competition for places was an undoubted issue, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Gonzalo Castro and Shinji Kagawa all fighting for a similar position in the starting XI, the truth is that Januzaj simply didn’t hit the heights expected of him when Dortmund proposed the temporary move.
“He had several chances but never improved enough for Tuchel to justify giving him more time on the pitch,” explains Goal’s Borussia Dortmund expert Stefan Doring.“Also I don’t think he ever really accepted the challenge. It was well known that it is far from easy to get playing time at Dortmund, but he didn’t do enough to change the situation.”
As at United earlier in the season, Januzaj put his struggles down to a lack of game time. “I do not have the form to play better on the field. I just need more games,” he claimed in November.“I train very hard, but I do not have many games in my legs, which makes it difficult for me mentally. I need more games to be a better player.“I have qualities that I demonstrated in Manchester. But it is difficult at the moment.”
Now that he is back at Old Trafford there is no guarantee that he will suddenly find himself thrust into the starting XI. United have called him back due to his inability to break into the Dortmund team, rather than a need for reinforcements.
Moyes might have given Januzaj regular football, but back then he was flying and United were getting little inspiration elsewhere. The Red Devils are not exactly pulling up any trees under Van Gaal right now either, and the manager might well be willing to give the Belgian a run in the side, if he can prove he is deserving of one.
And that is the biggest challenge for Januzaj right now. Shunned by United and Dortmund alike, the youngster has to prove he can battle against adversity to force his way back in and become an Old Trafford regular once more.The one-time wonder boy is facing the first major turning point of his career.
Two seasons ago he was the single bright spot amid the wreckage of Manchester United’s season as the David Moyes experiment went badly wrong. A host of dynamic, match-defining displays ensured Adnan Januzaj’s rookie season would be one to remember, and he looked set to be a key part of the club’s future for some years to come.
But the Belgian has returned to Old Trafford this week facing a fight to save his reputation following the complete failure of a loan move to Borussia Dortmund which was supposed to blast him back into the limelight.
It is fair to say things haven’t gone well for Januzaj since Louis van Gaal handed him Ryan Giggs’s famous No.11 jersey upon the Dutchman’s arrival in Manchester. He was afforded only seven league starts in 2014-15, with just three coming after mid-November, as the United boss largely overlooked the 20-year-old when seeking answers to his issues in attack.
Even when Januzaj was given four straight starts at the beginning of this season, he never convinced his manager. His match-winning goal at Aston Villa in August should have been a turning point, but instead Van Gaal underlined his player’s deficiencies after the match.
“He scored a wonderful goal, but all the other aspects of football you have to show,” said the 64-year-old. “I’m pleased because with this goal we have won, but there is more than scoring a goal. There were a lot of unnecessary ball losses.”
For his part, Januzaj appealed for more game time. “I hope to have more games in my legs and hopefully score more goals," he said. "It was only rumours regarding a move. I’m happy here. I’m going to fight for my place.”
Yet three curtailed appearances later he was hauled off at half-time of the 4-0 win away to Club Brugge in a Champions League play-off and it was enough to persuade Januzaj he would get more minutes elsewhere.When Dortmund came knocking, Januzaj leapt at the chance for a change of scenery despite Van Gaal’s insistence that he wanted him to stay.
“He has to compete with higher-level players," Van Gaal said. "I want him to play all the matches, and that's why I wanted to play him in the Premier League, but he chose Borussia Dortmund."
But in Germany things have gone from bad to worse for Januzaj. Six substitute's appearances were all he has to show for his Bundesliga experience over the past four months, with the Europa League providing his only opportunity for starts. A total return of 516 minutes of play and no goals was not exactly what any of the three parties had in mind.
While the competition for places was an undoubted issue, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Gonzalo Castro and Shinji Kagawa all fighting for a similar position in the starting XI, the truth is that Januzaj simply didn’t hit the heights expected of him when Dortmund proposed the temporary move.
“He had several chances but never improved enough for Tuchel to justify giving him more time on the pitch,” explains Goal’s Borussia Dortmund expert Stefan Doring.“Also I don’t think he ever really accepted the challenge. It was well known that it is far from easy to get playing time at Dortmund, but he didn’t do enough to change the situation.”
As at United earlier in the season, Januzaj put his struggles down to a lack of game time. “I do not have the form to play better on the field. I just need more games,” he claimed in November.“I train very hard, but I do not have many games in my legs, which makes it difficult for me mentally. I need more games to be a better player.“I have qualities that I demonstrated in Manchester. But it is difficult at the moment.”
Now that he is back at Old Trafford there is no guarantee that he will suddenly find himself thrust into the starting XI. United have called him back due to his inability to break into the Dortmund team, rather than a need for reinforcements.
Moyes might have given Januzaj regular football, but back then he was flying and United were getting little inspiration elsewhere. The Red Devils are not exactly pulling up any trees under Van Gaal right now either, and the manager might well be willing to give the Belgian a run in the side, if he can prove he is deserving of one.
And that is the biggest challenge for Januzaj right now. Shunned by United and Dortmund alike, the youngster has to prove he can battle against adversity to force his way back in and become an Old Trafford regular once more.The one-time wonder boy is facing the first major turning point of his career.
Ricardo Rodriguez: I've had no contact with Real Madrid
Wolfsburg defender Ricardo Rodriguez says he has had no contact with Real Madrid over a possible January move.The Switzerland international has been tipped to be Zinedine Zidane's first signing as Madrid head coach due to Marcelo's injury problems this season.
Rodriguez, however, insists he is unaware of any approach from the 10-time European champions and is focused on returning to top form in the second half of the campaign after overcoming a back problem.
"I've not heard from Real," he told Bild. "I don't know if there's anything in it. Even my manager has said nothing to me, so there is nothing new."I thought my performance in the first half was not to bad, but I can do better."Right now I'm symptom-free. Now is the time to get fit. There are only six points to the Champions League spots."
Wolfsburg defender Ricardo Rodriguez says he has had no contact with Real Madrid over a possible January move.The Switzerland international has been tipped to be Zinedine Zidane's first signing as Madrid head coach due to Marcelo's injury problems this season.
Rodriguez, however, insists he is unaware of any approach from the 10-time European champions and is focused on returning to top form in the second half of the campaign after overcoming a back problem.
"I've not heard from Real," he told Bild. "I don't know if there's anything in it. Even my manager has said nothing to me, so there is nothing new."I thought my performance in the first half was not to bad, but I can do better."Right now I'm symptom-free. Now is the time to get fit. There are only six points to the Champions League spots."
Di Maria can still get better, insists Blanc
Laurent Blanc believes there is more to come from Angel Di Maria at Paris Saint-Germain.
The Argentina star moved to the French capital in August following a fruitless year with Manchester United and has scored nine goals in 21 appearances for the runaway Ligue 1 leaders.
Di Maria has impressed at Parc des Princes and shown glimpses of his best form but Blanc says he is yet to scale the heights of his celebrated time at Real Madrid."I think he can bring more," the coach told a press conference. "When you have a new foreign player who arrives in a country he does not know, it's not that easy.
"He has adapted well. I think the city of Paris and the French mentality suit him. That is certainly what he told me.
"He is a boy who will feel more at ease when he masters the language, on and off the field."
PSG take on Bastia on Friday a year after the Corsican side produced a stunning comeback from two goals down to beat the French champions 4-2.Blanc, however, is confident his side have improved enough to avoid a repeat result this season.
"One year, it's a long time," he said. "We're not safe from the kind of game we had in Bastia last year, because if my memories are right, we did a pretty good first half and then during the second half, we pulled the plug and there was nobody on the pitch anymore.
"One year later, I think we control this kind of game better. I think the players deal with these situations better and we improved individually and collectively."
Laurent Blanc believes there is more to come from Angel Di Maria at Paris Saint-Germain.
The Argentina star moved to the French capital in August following a fruitless year with Manchester United and has scored nine goals in 21 appearances for the runaway Ligue 1 leaders.
Di Maria has impressed at Parc des Princes and shown glimpses of his best form but Blanc says he is yet to scale the heights of his celebrated time at Real Madrid."I think he can bring more," the coach told a press conference. "When you have a new foreign player who arrives in a country he does not know, it's not that easy.
"He has adapted well. I think the city of Paris and the French mentality suit him. That is certainly what he told me.
"He is a boy who will feel more at ease when he masters the language, on and off the field."
PSG take on Bastia on Friday a year after the Corsican side produced a stunning comeback from two goals down to beat the French champions 4-2.Blanc, however, is confident his side have improved enough to avoid a repeat result this season.
"One year, it's a long time," he said. "We're not safe from the kind of game we had in Bastia last year, because if my memories are right, we did a pretty good first half and then during the second half, we pulled the plug and there was nobody on the pitch anymore.
"One year later, I think we control this kind of game better. I think the players deal with these situations better and we improved individually and collectively."
'Van Gaal did not know that Hernandez is a good player!'
As the sun beamed down on Bayer Leverkusen’s training session a stone’s throw from Disney World, Leverkusen CEO Michael Schade enjoyed a good laugh thinking about the fact that Manchester United could think Javier Hernandez wasn’t good enough.
Cast aside by Louis van Gaal last summer, Chicharito has been one of the signings of the season, earning back-to-back Bundesliga player of the month awards, and scoring goals in bunches while his former club struggles to do the same.
“Mr. Van Gaal did not know that [Chicharito] is a good player,” Schade told Goal USA with a laugh. “That’s what I read in the English newspapers. They are criticising his former coach, Louis van Gaal, very much because he didn’t recognise what kind of talent this was.
"To be honest, Manchester would need a striker like him for the time being, but we’re happy to have him.”
Happy is an understatement in describing how Schade and Leverkusen feel about a player who has exceeded all possible expectations since making his move to the Bundesliga.
Chicharito has not only been a revelation on the field, but his considerable marketing power has also skyrocketed to new levels and Leverkusen has been the beneficiary, as evidenced by the hordes of Mexico fans who have followed Leverkusen since the German club arrived in Florida for a winter training camp and two exhibition matches in the Florida Cup.
“We had an example that was similar to this. We had a player from South Korea, Heung-Min Son, and he was a hero in his home country as well,” Schade said. “We visited Korea and were surprised how many people came to see him -- 10,000 young girls waiting in front of the airport, for example.
“If you have a player that is a national hero you can use that for marketing activities, but first of all you decide to buy a player because he’s a good player and can help the team. Chicharito is both. He’s a very good player, and on the other side he’s kind of an idol in this part of the world.”
Hernandez's popularity and his blistering form have helped raise Leverkusen’s profile around the world, and especially in North America. So much so that signing Chicharito is in the running for best transfer of the season, which isn’t too bad for a move that few could have seen coming back when it happened.
“I think it was a big surprise for many football fans all over the word that he decided to go to Leverkusen, because he’s played at (Real) Madrid and Manchester (United),” Schade said. “We are a top team, a European top team, but not belonging to the first five. Nevertheless, we were convinced that he could help us to fulfil our objectives and that’s what he did.
“He’s scored nearly every game. He’s very successful and very popular, so we have the ideal combination between success on the pitch and also success in merchandising and marketing activities, because he’s so well known and so popular in Latin America, and here in North America."
Chicharito’s form has not only left Manchester United looking foolish for selling him, it has also begun to generate rumours of interest in signings the striker in January. As much interest as there may be, Leverkusen are in no hurry to sell their best player.
“I always get some offers concerning our players,” Schade said. “I always say that one day, when I don’t get phone calls I’ll think about the quality of our team. If international top teams like Manchester, Barcelona or Munich are interested in our players, our managers, our coaches, then we are on a high level of quality. If we don’t get those calls, then we’re not at that level.”As for whether he’s considering selling Chicharito, Schade’s message was clear.
As the sun beamed down on Bayer Leverkusen’s training session a stone’s throw from Disney World, Leverkusen CEO Michael Schade enjoyed a good laugh thinking about the fact that Manchester United could think Javier Hernandez wasn’t good enough.
Cast aside by Louis van Gaal last summer, Chicharito has been one of the signings of the season, earning back-to-back Bundesliga player of the month awards, and scoring goals in bunches while his former club struggles to do the same.
“Mr. Van Gaal did not know that [Chicharito] is a good player,” Schade told Goal USA with a laugh. “That’s what I read in the English newspapers. They are criticising his former coach, Louis van Gaal, very much because he didn’t recognise what kind of talent this was.
"To be honest, Manchester would need a striker like him for the time being, but we’re happy to have him.”
Happy is an understatement in describing how Schade and Leverkusen feel about a player who has exceeded all possible expectations since making his move to the Bundesliga.
Chicharito has not only been a revelation on the field, but his considerable marketing power has also skyrocketed to new levels and Leverkusen has been the beneficiary, as evidenced by the hordes of Mexico fans who have followed Leverkusen since the German club arrived in Florida for a winter training camp and two exhibition matches in the Florida Cup.
“We had an example that was similar to this. We had a player from South Korea, Heung-Min Son, and he was a hero in his home country as well,” Schade said. “We visited Korea and were surprised how many people came to see him -- 10,000 young girls waiting in front of the airport, for example.
“If you have a player that is a national hero you can use that for marketing activities, but first of all you decide to buy a player because he’s a good player and can help the team. Chicharito is both. He’s a very good player, and on the other side he’s kind of an idol in this part of the world.”
Hernandez's popularity and his blistering form have helped raise Leverkusen’s profile around the world, and especially in North America. So much so that signing Chicharito is in the running for best transfer of the season, which isn’t too bad for a move that few could have seen coming back when it happened.
“I think it was a big surprise for many football fans all over the word that he decided to go to Leverkusen, because he’s played at (Real) Madrid and Manchester (United),” Schade said. “We are a top team, a European top team, but not belonging to the first five. Nevertheless, we were convinced that he could help us to fulfil our objectives and that’s what he did.
“He’s scored nearly every game. He’s very successful and very popular, so we have the ideal combination between success on the pitch and also success in merchandising and marketing activities, because he’s so well known and so popular in Latin America, and here in North America."
Chicharito’s form has not only left Manchester United looking foolish for selling him, it has also begun to generate rumours of interest in signings the striker in January. As much interest as there may be, Leverkusen are in no hurry to sell their best player.
“I always get some offers concerning our players,” Schade said. “I always say that one day, when I don’t get phone calls I’ll think about the quality of our team. If international top teams like Manchester, Barcelona or Munich are interested in our players, our managers, our coaches, then we are on a high level of quality. If we don’t get those calls, then we’re not at that level.”As for whether he’s considering selling Chicharito, Schade’s message was clear.
Martinez fears losing Stones & Lukaku
Everton manager Roberto Martinez admits he fears losing both John Stones and Romelu Lukaku but has refuted claims that he has promised the duo that they will be sold if the club fail to qualify for the Champions League.
Everton are currently 11th in the Premier League, nine points off the top four following two matches without a win.
Both Stones and Lukaku have been heavily linked with moves to elite English clubs in recent months, but Martinez says he has made no promises to the duo regarding their futures.
"That is not true, I would never do that," said the Spaniard.
"I think that would be very negative. If you do that could you imagine the last two months for that player? He would never put a leg in or never challenge for the ball.
"I don't agree with doing that.
"I know you can do that to keep a player for another 12 months but if you're not going to have a player 12 months down the line you need to start replacing him to have a stronger team."
Regardless of what the future may hold for the likes of Lukaku and Stones, Martinez has already started strengthening for next season with the £3 million acquisition of Shani Tarashaj.
Everton manager Roberto Martinez admits he fears losing both John Stones and Romelu Lukaku but has refuted claims that he has promised the duo that they will be sold if the club fail to qualify for the Champions League.
Everton are currently 11th in the Premier League, nine points off the top four following two matches without a win.
Both Stones and Lukaku have been heavily linked with moves to elite English clubs in recent months, but Martinez says he has made no promises to the duo regarding their futures.
"That is not true, I would never do that," said the Spaniard.
"I think that would be very negative. If you do that could you imagine the last two months for that player? He would never put a leg in or never challenge for the ball.
"I don't agree with doing that.
"I know you can do that to keep a player for another 12 months but if you're not going to have a player 12 months down the line you need to start replacing him to have a stronger team."
Regardless of what the future may hold for the likes of Lukaku and Stones, Martinez has already started strengthening for next season with the £3 million acquisition of Shani Tarashaj.
Januzaj wanted Manchester United return after Borussia Dortmund nightmare
Borussia Dortmund claim that it was Adnan Januzaj’s own decision to return to Manchester United and admit the deal was not good for either club.
The 20-year-old joined Dortmund on a season-long loan at the end of August but made only 12 appearances for the club, including just 160 minutes in the Bundesliga this season.
Januzaj’s return to Old Trafford was made official on Thursday and Dortmund’s sporting director admits ended the Belgian’s deal was in the best interests for everyone concerned.
“It was a wish of Adnan to go back,” said Zorc.
“The loan wasn’t a good deal for both sides all in all."
Borussia Dortmund claim that it was Adnan Januzaj’s own decision to return to Manchester United and admit the deal was not good for either club.
The 20-year-old joined Dortmund on a season-long loan at the end of August but made only 12 appearances for the club, including just 160 minutes in the Bundesliga this season.
Januzaj’s return to Old Trafford was made official on Thursday and Dortmund’s sporting director admits ended the Belgian’s deal was in the best interests for everyone concerned.
“It was a wish of Adnan to go back,” said Zorc.
“The loan wasn’t a good deal for both sides all in all."
Aubameyang insists he is NOT joining Arsenal
Borussia Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang insists he does not want to join Arsenal.
Reports on Thursday had claimed that the Gunners have launched a £44.6 million bid for the 26-year-old, who has scored 24 goals in 23 appearances this season.
But after being named African Player of the Year on Thursday night, the Gabon international claims he is not interested in a move to Arsene Wenger’s side.
“I don't want to go to Arsenal,” said the forward. “I won’t leave Dortmund soon.”
Borussia Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang insists he does not want to join Arsenal.
Reports on Thursday had claimed that the Gunners have launched a £44.6 million bid for the 26-year-old, who has scored 24 goals in 23 appearances this season.
But after being named African Player of the Year on Thursday night, the Gabon international claims he is not interested in a move to Arsene Wenger’s side.
“I don't want to go to Arsenal,” said the forward. “I won’t leave Dortmund soon.”
Matthaus slams Guardiola: Bayern's players never really loved Pep
Lothar Matthaus has launched a stinging attack on Pep Guardiola, claiming there has never been any real connection between the former Barcelona manager and Bayern Munich’s superstar players.
Guardiola confirmed on Monday he will move to the Premier League at the end of the season when his current contract expires, and Goal understands he is set to replace Manuel Pellegrini at Manchester City.
The 44-year-old is on course to retain the Bundesliga title and his side are among the favourites to win the Champions League, but Matthaus claims Bayern’s players will not be unhappy to see the back of Guardiola who he believes is in for a difficult few months as the end of his tenure draws closer.
The former Bayern skipper told SportBild: "Guardiola can say what he wants: The squad planning for Manchester City is too important. He cannot possibly be 100 percent focussed on the job in hand at Bayern on his mind. That's a dangerous situation to be in.
"Guardiola will have five difficult moths in Munich."
"I don't want to beat around the bush: There never was true love between Guardiola and the Bayern players. His hugs? It was all a big show."
Mario Gotze is the most high-profile player to have struggled to come to terms with the demands of Guardiola’s management style and Matthaus claimed the German World Cup winning hero will benefit from playing under a coach more renowned for their motivational skills.
He added: "Gotze needs a coach, who not only hugs him sometimes, but who is serious about this as well like Jürgen Klopp.
“Gotze's qualities are undisputed, but apparently he needs to have the team built around him if he is to show them. This is similar with Franck Ribery, who often quarrels with Guardiola as well."
Lothar Matthaus has launched a stinging attack on Pep Guardiola, claiming there has never been any real connection between the former Barcelona manager and Bayern Munich’s superstar players.
Guardiola confirmed on Monday he will move to the Premier League at the end of the season when his current contract expires, and Goal understands he is set to replace Manuel Pellegrini at Manchester City.
The 44-year-old is on course to retain the Bundesliga title and his side are among the favourites to win the Champions League, but Matthaus claims Bayern’s players will not be unhappy to see the back of Guardiola who he believes is in for a difficult few months as the end of his tenure draws closer.
The former Bayern skipper told SportBild: "Guardiola can say what he wants: The squad planning for Manchester City is too important. He cannot possibly be 100 percent focussed on the job in hand at Bayern on his mind. That's a dangerous situation to be in.
"Guardiola will have five difficult moths in Munich."
"I don't want to beat around the bush: There never was true love between Guardiola and the Bayern players. His hugs? It was all a big show."
Mario Gotze is the most high-profile player to have struggled to come to terms with the demands of Guardiola’s management style and Matthaus claimed the German World Cup winning hero will benefit from playing under a coach more renowned for their motivational skills.
He added: "Gotze needs a coach, who not only hugs him sometimes, but who is serious about this as well like Jürgen Klopp.
“Gotze's qualities are undisputed, but apparently he needs to have the team built around him if he is to show them. This is similar with Franck Ribery, who often quarrels with Guardiola as well."
Guardiola could suit Arsenal - Wenger
Arsene Wenger feels Pep Guardiola's preference to work in three-year blocks would not be prohibitive to him taking charge at Arsenal.
The 44-year-old will leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season after three years in charge and recently announced that he intends to continue his career in the Premier League.
It is understood that Manchester City are the frontrunners to secure the Spaniard's signature but Wenger believes he could work at the Emirates at some stage in the future.
"Would Pep's three-year blocks suit Arsenal? Anything is suitable," Wenger said at a news conference.
"Every manager has his own way to run and model his career. There's not only one way as long as they give their best to the club where they are. What I think is most important is that anybody who works for a football club gives full commitment.
"How long does it last? Nobody knows. I didn't plan to stay here for 20 years.
"But it is interesting to have the best players and managers in the Premier League."
Wenger has a contract with Arsenal until 2017 and seems unlikely to make way for Guardiola at the end of this season, but he is determined to leave the club in the best shape possible when he does depart.
"It's not my job to talk about who will succeed me," he added.
"I can only make sure of one thing, that the guy who comes after me finds the club in a very strong position with very good players in a very good, strong financial situation."
Arsene Wenger feels Pep Guardiola's preference to work in three-year blocks would not be prohibitive to him taking charge at Arsenal.
The 44-year-old will leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season after three years in charge and recently announced that he intends to continue his career in the Premier League.
It is understood that Manchester City are the frontrunners to secure the Spaniard's signature but Wenger believes he could work at the Emirates at some stage in the future.
"Would Pep's three-year blocks suit Arsenal? Anything is suitable," Wenger said at a news conference.
"Every manager has his own way to run and model his career. There's not only one way as long as they give their best to the club where they are. What I think is most important is that anybody who works for a football club gives full commitment.
"How long does it last? Nobody knows. I didn't plan to stay here for 20 years.
"But it is interesting to have the best players and managers in the Premier League."
Wenger has a contract with Arsenal until 2017 and seems unlikely to make way for Guardiola at the end of this season, but he is determined to leave the club in the best shape possible when he does depart.
"It's not my job to talk about who will succeed me," he added.
"I can only make sure of one thing, that the guy who comes after me finds the club in a very strong position with very good players in a very good, strong financial situation."
Aubameyang delighted with CAF Player of the Year crown
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was honoured to take out the CAF Player of the Year award after a stunning year of form with Bundesliga outfit Borussia Dortmund.
Aubameyang has long been touted as one of the leading talents to come out of Africa in recent times and he has delivered on that reputation with some remarkable form, taking out the CAF top gong, ending a four-year run of wins from Manchester City's Yaya Toure.
The Gabon international has already scored 27 goals this season, and said he was proud to have won the award.
"When you're next to players like Yaya Toure and Andre Ayew, you are proud to win this trophy in front of them because they are great players that I admire a lot," Aubameyang said.The forward said he is capable of winning it again next year if he can continue to work hard.
"I will have to work, I will have to work a lot," he said."But I have the qualities to be there again next year. But it is hard work and sacrifice too."
Toure finished second, with Swansea City and Ghana midfielder Andre Ayew finishing third.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was honoured to take out the CAF Player of the Year award after a stunning year of form with Bundesliga outfit Borussia Dortmund.
Aubameyang has long been touted as one of the leading talents to come out of Africa in recent times and he has delivered on that reputation with some remarkable form, taking out the CAF top gong, ending a four-year run of wins from Manchester City's Yaya Toure.
The Gabon international has already scored 27 goals this season, and said he was proud to have won the award.
"When you're next to players like Yaya Toure and Andre Ayew, you are proud to win this trophy in front of them because they are great players that I admire a lot," Aubameyang said.The forward said he is capable of winning it again next year if he can continue to work hard.
"I will have to work, I will have to work a lot," he said."But I have the qualities to be there again next year. But it is hard work and sacrifice too."
Toure finished second, with Swansea City and Ghana midfielder Andre Ayew finishing third.
Neuer named world's best goalkeeper for third year in a row
Manuel Neuer has been named the World Goalkeeper of the Year for the third year in a row.
Bayern goalkeeper Neuer beat off competition from runner-up Gianluigi Buffon and third-placed Claudio Bravo to reclaim the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) award.
Experts from 50 countries cast their vote in the competition, and Neuer earned 188 points, a remarkable 110 ahead of his Juventus rival, while Bravo received only 45.
"Of course I am happy about this triple. But titles with my team are more important to me," he told Bayern's official website.
Premier League goalkeepers David De Gea and Thibaut Courtois came fourth and fifth respectively, with Petr Cech sixth.
Marcelo Barovero, Marc Andre Ter Stegen, Iker Casillas and Daniel Subasic round off the top 10.
Manuel Neuer has been named the World Goalkeeper of the Year for the third year in a row.
Bayern goalkeeper Neuer beat off competition from runner-up Gianluigi Buffon and third-placed Claudio Bravo to reclaim the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) award.
Experts from 50 countries cast their vote in the competition, and Neuer earned 188 points, a remarkable 110 ahead of his Juventus rival, while Bravo received only 45.
"Of course I am happy about this triple. But titles with my team are more important to me," he told Bayern's official website.
Premier League goalkeepers David De Gea and Thibaut Courtois came fourth and fifth respectively, with Petr Cech sixth.
Marcelo Barovero, Marc Andre Ter Stegen, Iker Casillas and Daniel Subasic round off the top 10.
'Van Gaal did not know that Hernandez is a good player!'
As the sun beamed down on Bayer Leverkusen’s training session a stone’s throw from Disney World, Leverkusen CEO Michael Schade enjoyed a good laugh thinking about the fact that Manchester United could think Javier Hernandez wasn’t good enough.
Cast aside by Louis van Gaal last summer, Chicharito has been one of the signings of the season, earning back-to-back Bundesliga player of the month awards, and scoring goals in bunches while his former club struggles to do the same.
“Mr. Van Gaal did not know that [Chicharito] is a good player,” Schade told Goal USA with a laugh. “That’s what I read in the English newspapers. They are criticising his former coach, Louis van Gaal, very much because he didn’t recognise what kind of talent this was.
"To be honest, Manchester would need a striker like him for the time being, but we’re happy to have him.”
Happy is an understatement in describing how Schade and Leverkusen feel about a player who has exceeded all possible expectations since making his move to the Bundesliga.
Chicharito has not only been a revelation on the field, but his considerable marketing power has also skyrocketed to new levels and Leverkusen has been the beneficiary, as evidenced by the hordes of Mexico fans who have followed Leverkusen since the German club arrived in Florida for a winter training camp and two exhibition matches in the Florida Cup.
“We had an example that was similar to this. We had a player from South Korea, Heung-Min Son, and he was a hero in his home country as well,” Schade said. “We visited Korea and were surprised how many people came to see him -- 10,000 young girls waiting in front of the airport, for example.
“If you have a player that is a national hero you can use that for marketing activities, but first of all you decide to buy a player because he’s a good player and can help the team. Chicharito is both. He’s a very good player, and on the other side he’s kind of an idol in this part of the world.”
Hernandez's popularity and his blistering form have helped raise Leverkusen’s profile around the world, and especially in North America. So much so that signing Chicharito is in the running for best transfer of the season, which isn’t too bad for a move that few could have seen coming back when it happened.
“I think it was a big surprise for many football fans all over the word that he decided to go to Leverkusen, because he’s played at (Real) Madrid and Manchester (United),” Schade said. “We are a top team, a European top team, but not belonging to the first five. Nevertheless, we were convinced that he could help us to fulfil our objectives and that’s what he did.
“He’s scored nearly every game. He’s very successful and very popular, so we have the ideal combination between success on the pitch and also success in merchandising and marketing activities, because he’s so well known and so popular in Latin America, and here in North America."
Chicharito’s form has not only left Manchester United looking foolish for selling him, it has also begun to generate rumours of interest in signings the striker in January. As much interest as there may be, Leverkusen are in no hurry to sell their best player.
“I always get some offers concerning our players,” Schade said. “I always say that one day, when I don’t get phone calls I’ll think about the quality of our team. If international top teams like Manchester, Barcelona or Munich are interested in our players, our managers, our coaches, then we are on a high level of quality. If we don’t get those calls, then we’re not at that level.”As for whether he’s considering selling Chicharito, Schade’s message was clear.
loool
Zidane tells Manchester United & PSG they have NO hope of signing Ronaldo
Zinedine Zidane has told Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain that they have no chance of signing Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid.
Both United and PSG have been monitoring Ronaldo's situation at Madrid amid reports that he was unhappy during Rafa Benitez's reign.
But Zidane, who replaced Rafa Benitez as manager after the Spaniard's sacking on Monday, insists the Portugal international is the "soul" in his Madrid side.
"Cristiano Ronaldo is non-transferable,” Zidane said at his press conference on Friday.
“He's the soul of this team. While he's here, he won't leave.
"Cristiano will play on the wings, how he's most comfortable. I won't tell him much. I want him to be happy."
Zidane revealed he has offered private words of encouragement to compatriot Benzema but feels there is not much that needs to be said when it comes to Ronaldo.
"I have said to Benzema in private: 'my God, you have some quality!'" he said.
"Cristiano will play on the wing. I'm going to say few things to Cristiano, I only want him to be happy.
"A player can always improve, be he 20 or 34, and I want to help them improve.
"It's difficult to know which player has impressed me the most. We have tremendous quality, I can't single out just one player. It's a pleasure for me to see them play."
Zidane also believes he has held the respect of the dressing-room since his spell as Carlo Ancelotti's assistant coach during the 2013-14 season and is not harbouring any concerns ahead of Saturday's match.
"I'm convinced that everything will go well," he added. "Nothing is worrying me at the moment. I'll sleep very well tonight because training was spectacular.
"I want the full support of the fans and I want to bring them joy. I want the Bernabeu fans to enjoy their team.
"I'm in charge of the team and I had the respect of the players two years ago under Ancelotti. I spoke with the players from time to time."
Zinedine Zidane has told Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain that they have no chance of signing Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid.
Both United and PSG have been monitoring Ronaldo's situation at Madrid amid reports that he was unhappy during Rafa Benitez's reign.
But Zidane, who replaced Rafa Benitez as manager after the Spaniard's sacking on Monday, insists the Portugal international is the "soul" in his Madrid side.
"Cristiano Ronaldo is non-transferable,” Zidane said at his press conference on Friday.
“He's the soul of this team. While he's here, he won't leave.
"Cristiano will play on the wings, how he's most comfortable. I won't tell him much. I want him to be happy."
Zidane revealed he has offered private words of encouragement to compatriot Benzema but feels there is not much that needs to be said when it comes to Ronaldo.
"I have said to Benzema in private: 'my God, you have some quality!'" he said.
"Cristiano will play on the wing. I'm going to say few things to Cristiano, I only want him to be happy.
"A player can always improve, be he 20 or 34, and I want to help them improve.
"It's difficult to know which player has impressed me the most. We have tremendous quality, I can't single out just one player. It's a pleasure for me to see them play."
Zidane also believes he has held the respect of the dressing-room since his spell as Carlo Ancelotti's assistant coach during the 2013-14 season and is not harbouring any concerns ahead of Saturday's match.
"I'm convinced that everything will go well," he added. "Nothing is worrying me at the moment. I'll sleep very well tonight because training was spectacular.
"I want the full support of the fans and I want to bring them joy. I want the Bernabeu fans to enjoy their team.
"I'm in charge of the team and I had the respect of the players two years ago under Ancelotti. I spoke with the players from time to time."
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