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..::Football II::..
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Henry open to Arsenal return
New York Red Bulls forward Thierry Henry is not ruling out the possibility of sealing another return to Arsenal.
Henry, 34, spent time training with Arsenal during the off season of the MLS last winter before agreeing a short-term loan agreement in January with the club he left for Barcelona in 2010.The Frenchman scored twice during his loan spell, his first of those strikes on his comeback match in the FA Cup against Leeds, and he has admitted he sees his future back at Emirates Stadium.Henry said in the Sun: "I would like to go back to England with Arsenal for sure.
"I wasn't planning to go back to play last season. It was only because Gervinho and Chamakh went to the African Nations Cup."I was there to train and they asked me if I wanted to play. Who knows what might happen in the future? I've not yet spoken to Arsene about it so I don't know what capacity I could go back in.
"Coaching does interest me but I don't know what my talent is going to be after I have finished my career. But I will go back to Arsenal."
Congratulations Manchester United!
Shanghai Shenhua 0-1 Manchester United: Impressive Kagawa nets first goal for new club
Shinji Kagawa scored his first goal for Manchester United to help the Red Devils secure a 1-0 win over Shanghai Shenhua on Wednesday.The Japanese midfielder volleyed home in the 68th minute, making no mistake from six yards after Bebe picked out the 23-year-old in space in the penalty area.
Shanghai rarely threatened the United goal but its best chance fell to Joel Griffiths, who was denied by Anders Lindegaard as Sir Alex Ferguson's side ran out comfortable victors despite the narrow scoreline.
Ferguson named a strong side to begin the match, with new signing Kagawa making his second start of pre-season. Nick Powell was included in the initial United XI for the first time since joining from Crewe Alexandra earlier this summer.
Lindegaard was selected in goal while stalwarts Rio Ferdinand and Michael Carrick anchored the defence, with youngsters Frederic Veseli and Robbie Brady operating at right and left-back respectively.
Shanghai was without former Chelsea duo Nicolas Anelka and Didier Drogba, who were both rested due to the busy Chinese domestic schedule.
United started the game on the front foot, with Brady causing problems down the left, and the Red Devils will have felt aggrieved not to have been awarded a penalty after the Irishman was brought down in the area.
Ferguson's side should have been ahead in the 23rd minute when Davide Petrucci played a lovely through ball for Powell, who was one-on-one with Shengjiong Qiu after beating the offside trap but could only put his right-footed effort wide of the post.The Chinese side was struggling to get a hold of the ball and when it did it made too many mistakes in possession.
Anderson and Kagawa nearly capitalized on one of these errors as the Brazilian intercepted a pass and found his team-mate with a pinpoint ball, but the Japanese was crowded out as Shanghai flooded back in numbers before he could shoot.
United was exerting pressure in the home side's half but couldn't produce the final ball they needed to get through the Shanghai backline, with Brady especially wasteful from good positions.
The home side almost made United pay for its lack of clinical edge but Griffiths' effort was well saved by Lindegaard, who tipped the ball over the bar after the striker had beaten the challenge of Ferdinand to advance through on goal.
United started the second-half strongly and went agonizingly close to taking the lead through Anderson, whose left-footed shot from outside the area flew inches past the post following good work from Kagawa.
The former Borussia Dortmund star was impressing for the Red Devils, going on to beat his man before sliding a sublime ball to Federico Macheda, who couldn't find the net when well placed in the area.
Ferguson's side continued to press for the opener and Shanghai was grateful to keeper Qiu for keeping it level as he made a great stop to deny Bebe, whose volley seemed destined for the net after he latched onto Antonio Valencia's cross from the right.
The Red Devils' pressure was finally rewarded in the 68th minute when Kagawa scored his first goal for the club, volleying the ball into the top corner, with the help of a slight deflection, following great work down the left wing from Bebe, who expertly found the 23-year-old unmarked in the box.
Substitute Paul Scholes almost doubled the lead minutes later as Marnick Vermijl raided down the right and found the midfielder with an accurate cross but the 37-year-old could only head the ball into the ground and over the bar.
The home side pressed for an equalizer late in the game but it was the visitors who looked more likely to score as Javier Hernandez came close to doubling its lead. The Mexican's shot rattled the crossbar but the miss did not prove costly as United ran out comfortable victors.
Shanghai Shenhua 0-1 Manchester United: Impressive Kagawa nets first goal for new club
Shinji Kagawa scored his first goal for Manchester United to help the Red Devils secure a 1-0 win over Shanghai Shenhua on Wednesday.The Japanese midfielder volleyed home in the 68th minute, making no mistake from six yards after Bebe picked out the 23-year-old in space in the penalty area.
Shanghai rarely threatened the United goal but its best chance fell to Joel Griffiths, who was denied by Anders Lindegaard as Sir Alex Ferguson's side ran out comfortable victors despite the narrow scoreline.
Ferguson named a strong side to begin the match, with new signing Kagawa making his second start of pre-season. Nick Powell was included in the initial United XI for the first time since joining from Crewe Alexandra earlier this summer.
Lindegaard was selected in goal while stalwarts Rio Ferdinand and Michael Carrick anchored the defence, with youngsters Frederic Veseli and Robbie Brady operating at right and left-back respectively.
Shanghai was without former Chelsea duo Nicolas Anelka and Didier Drogba, who were both rested due to the busy Chinese domestic schedule.
United started the game on the front foot, with Brady causing problems down the left, and the Red Devils will have felt aggrieved not to have been awarded a penalty after the Irishman was brought down in the area.
Ferguson's side should have been ahead in the 23rd minute when Davide Petrucci played a lovely through ball for Powell, who was one-on-one with Shengjiong Qiu after beating the offside trap but could only put his right-footed effort wide of the post.The Chinese side was struggling to get a hold of the ball and when it did it made too many mistakes in possession.
Anderson and Kagawa nearly capitalized on one of these errors as the Brazilian intercepted a pass and found his team-mate with a pinpoint ball, but the Japanese was crowded out as Shanghai flooded back in numbers before he could shoot.
United was exerting pressure in the home side's half but couldn't produce the final ball they needed to get through the Shanghai backline, with Brady especially wasteful from good positions.
The home side almost made United pay for its lack of clinical edge but Griffiths' effort was well saved by Lindegaard, who tipped the ball over the bar after the striker had beaten the challenge of Ferdinand to advance through on goal.
United started the second-half strongly and went agonizingly close to taking the lead through Anderson, whose left-footed shot from outside the area flew inches past the post following good work from Kagawa.
The former Borussia Dortmund star was impressing for the Red Devils, going on to beat his man before sliding a sublime ball to Federico Macheda, who couldn't find the net when well placed in the area.
Ferguson's side continued to press for the opener and Shanghai was grateful to keeper Qiu for keeping it level as he made a great stop to deny Bebe, whose volley seemed destined for the net after he latched onto Antonio Valencia's cross from the right.
The Red Devils' pressure was finally rewarded in the 68th minute when Kagawa scored his first goal for the club, volleying the ball into the top corner, with the help of a slight deflection, following great work down the left wing from Bebe, who expertly found the 23-year-old unmarked in the box.
Substitute Paul Scholes almost doubled the lead minutes later as Marnick Vermijl raided down the right and found the midfielder with an accurate cross but the 37-year-old could only head the ball into the ground and over the bar.
The home side pressed for an equalizer late in the game but it was the visitors who looked more likely to score as Javier Hernandez came close to doubling its lead. The Mexican's shot rattled the crossbar but the miss did not prove costly as United ran out comfortable victors.
Congratzzzz Kagawa
Bebe th dan Elata Play karanawane
Chelsea sign Oscar
Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Internacional playmaker Oscar for a reported fee of around £25 million.
Oscar, 20, has been attracting the attention of Europe's major clubs after some impressive performances for Brazil and has become the Blues' latest recruit - alongside Eden Hazard and Marko Marin - as they look to assert more dominance in the Premier League this season.
A statement on the Chelsea website read: "Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Oscar."The midfielder, full name Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Junior, is part of Brazil's squad for London 2012 and played in the 2-0 warm-up victory over Team GB last Friday.
The move marks a stunning rise in his young career as his senior Brazil debut arrived only in September last year when he came on as a substitute in a 0-0 draw with Argentina, and he has scored once in six caps.
Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Internacional playmaker Oscar for a reported fee of around £25 million.
Oscar, 20, has been attracting the attention of Europe's major clubs after some impressive performances for Brazil and has become the Blues' latest recruit - alongside Eden Hazard and Marko Marin - as they look to assert more dominance in the Premier League this season.
A statement on the Chelsea website read: "Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Oscar."The midfielder, full name Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Junior, is part of Brazil's squad for London 2012 and played in the 2-0 warm-up victory over Team GB last Friday.
The move marks a stunning rise in his young career as his senior Brazil debut arrived only in September last year when he came on as a substitute in a 0-0 draw with Argentina, and he has scored once in six caps.
Porto coach Pereira counting on Hulk and Moutinho
Porto coach Vitor Pereira is keeping optimistic that he will be able to call on the services of Joao Moutinho and Hulk for the start of the new season.
The duo has been linked with moves to England in recent weeks, as new Tottenham coach Andre Villas-Boas has reportedly lined up the midfielder as a potential replacement for Luka Modric, and Chelsea is understood to be tracking the Brazilian forward.
Moutinho joined up with the rest of the Porto squad on Monday after going on holiday after Euro 2012, and Pereira has not lost hope of keeping both the Portugal international and Hulk, who is in London representing Brazil at the Olympics.
"They are our players, they are very valuable and I am counting on them," he told reporters.
Alvaro Pereira did not take part in Porto's friendly match against Santa Clara on Wednesday, but the Portuguese coach stated that it was because the Uruguayan was not fit to play.
Porto coach Vitor Pereira is keeping optimistic that he will be able to call on the services of Joao Moutinho and Hulk for the start of the new season.
The duo has been linked with moves to England in recent weeks, as new Tottenham coach Andre Villas-Boas has reportedly lined up the midfielder as a potential replacement for Luka Modric, and Chelsea is understood to be tracking the Brazilian forward.
Moutinho joined up with the rest of the Porto squad on Monday after going on holiday after Euro 2012, and Pereira has not lost hope of keeping both the Portugal international and Hulk, who is in London representing Brazil at the Olympics.
"They are our players, they are very valuable and I am counting on them," he told reporters.
Alvaro Pereira did not take part in Porto's friendly match against Santa Clara on Wednesday, but the Portuguese coach stated that it was because the Uruguayan was not fit to play.
Robben unaware of AC Milan interest
Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben has indicated that he is not aware of AC Milan's interest in his services.
French newspaper L'Equipe had claimed earlier in the week that the Italian giants were preparing a 20 million euro bid for the Netherlands international, who has been at the Allianz Arena since 2009.
But the 28-year-old attacker insists he does not know about the stories linking him with the Rossoneri, which raised over 60 million euros earlier in the month through the sales of Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain.
"I have not heard anything about that," Robben told TZ.
Earlier in the summer, Robben's father ruled out the possibility of his son leaving the club, despite the criticism the player faced in the final weeks of the season.
"It is impossible for him to leave Bayern," Hans Robben said at the time. "He will play in Munich next season."
Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben has indicated that he is not aware of AC Milan's interest in his services.
French newspaper L'Equipe had claimed earlier in the week that the Italian giants were preparing a 20 million euro bid for the Netherlands international, who has been at the Allianz Arena since 2009.
But the 28-year-old attacker insists he does not know about the stories linking him with the Rossoneri, which raised over 60 million euros earlier in the month through the sales of Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain.
"I have not heard anything about that," Robben told TZ.
Earlier in the summer, Robben's father ruled out the possibility of his son leaving the club, despite the criticism the player faced in the final weeks of the season.
"It is impossible for him to leave Bayern," Hans Robben said at the time. "He will play in Munich next season."
Eden Hazard delighted after Chelsea signs younger brother Thorgan
Chelsea attacker Eden Hazard has spoken of his delight after the Blues sealed the signing of his younger brother Thorgan Hazard from French outfit Lens.
The Blues secured the capture the 19-year-old on Tuesday, just weeks after they broke the bank to bring Eden to Stamford Bridge from Lille for a fee in the region of 32 million pounds.
And the Belgium international was quick to voice his glee at his sibling's switch.
"Two Hazards at Chelsea. I'm so happy,” he wrote on Twitter.
However, the two brothers are not expected to see much of each other on the field in 2012-13, with Eden set to be thrown straight into the first-team squad, while Thorgan anticipated to spend most of his time out on loan or with the club's Under-21 side.
Chelsea attacker Eden Hazard has spoken of his delight after the Blues sealed the signing of his younger brother Thorgan Hazard from French outfit Lens.
The Blues secured the capture the 19-year-old on Tuesday, just weeks after they broke the bank to bring Eden to Stamford Bridge from Lille for a fee in the region of 32 million pounds.
And the Belgium international was quick to voice his glee at his sibling's switch.
"Two Hazards at Chelsea. I'm so happy,” he wrote on Twitter.
However, the two brothers are not expected to see much of each other on the field in 2012-13, with Eden set to be thrown straight into the first-team squad, while Thorgan anticipated to spend most of his time out on loan or with the club's Under-21 side.
Di Natale: Juventus is the favorite to win Serie A
Udinese striker Antonio Di Natale believes Juventus goes into the new season as the favorite to retain its Serie A crown.
The Bianconeri won its first Scudetto since 2003 last term in convincing fashion, finishing four points ahead of AC Milan after an unbeaten campaign.
With Kwadwo Asamoah and Mauricio Isla both leaving Udinese to join Juventus, Di Natale claims the Turin-based club is the team to beat, but insists he trusts his side's chances of making an impression once more in the Italian top-tier.
"We start from scratch as always, we hope that the desire to work will come back," Di Natale told Sky Sport Italia.
"The Pozzo family has always done good things at this club. It is a shame that some players have left, but the club know what to do. Some good players have joined us and we hope they will fit in well.
"Juventus are favorites to win the league. After, them, I would say that there are Inter and AC Milan. I would also like to mention Napoli, because they have been doing a great job in the transfer market.
"I would also include Roma, Lazio and us. The league will be a close affair."
The 34-year-old was rewarded for his excellent form last season with a place in Italy's squad at Euro 2012, where he scored one goal in five appearances.
"Playing at the Euros was a great experience," Di Natale added. "Now I have the last two years of my career ahead of me.
"Playing at the World Cup in Brazil? If coach Cesare Prandelli wants to take me, I would be very happy. I am at the coach's disposal."
Udinese striker Antonio Di Natale believes Juventus goes into the new season as the favorite to retain its Serie A crown.
The Bianconeri won its first Scudetto since 2003 last term in convincing fashion, finishing four points ahead of AC Milan after an unbeaten campaign.
With Kwadwo Asamoah and Mauricio Isla both leaving Udinese to join Juventus, Di Natale claims the Turin-based club is the team to beat, but insists he trusts his side's chances of making an impression once more in the Italian top-tier.
"We start from scratch as always, we hope that the desire to work will come back," Di Natale told Sky Sport Italia.
"The Pozzo family has always done good things at this club. It is a shame that some players have left, but the club know what to do. Some good players have joined us and we hope they will fit in well.
"Juventus are favorites to win the league. After, them, I would say that there are Inter and AC Milan. I would also like to mention Napoli, because they have been doing a great job in the transfer market.
"I would also include Roma, Lazio and us. The league will be a close affair."
The 34-year-old was rewarded for his excellent form last season with a place in Italy's squad at Euro 2012, where he scored one goal in five appearances.
"Playing at the Euros was a great experience," Di Natale added. "Now I have the last two years of my career ahead of me.
"Playing at the World Cup in Brazil? If coach Cesare Prandelli wants to take me, I would be very happy. I am at the coach's disposal."
Klopp: Reus was cheap at 17.5 million euros
Jurgen Klopp appeared in high spirits regarding Borussia Dortmund's coup in acquiring forward Marco Reus from fellow Bundesliga side Borussia Monchengladbach.
The 45-year-old coach wasted no time in strengthening his striking options with the acquisition of the Germany international as a replacement for Shinji Kagawa, who left for Manchester United.
Reus, who represented his country at Euro 2012, rejoined his boyhood club for an equivalent sum of 17.5 million euros, a figure Klopp is now suggesting does not reflect the true value of the 23-year-old's talent.
"If we had signed Reus any later, he would have cost much more," Klopp explained to Bild. "We got him cheap, even if it was still for 17.5m euros.
"His market value is honestly much higher than what we paid for him, but it's not as if he feels any pressure - in fact, he doesn't seem to care, and neither do I."
Dortmund pipped Bayern Munich to the league title as well as the DFB-Pokal last season, and while Klopp was quick to assure fans that he was unfazed by the Bavarians' strengthening in the summer transfer window, he admitted they would be strong competitors for honors in the upcoming campaign.
"Bayern Munich's transfer campaign is only natural, where they are seizing every opportunity to reinforce, as are we and the likes of Borussia Monchengladbach, Schalke and Bayer Leverkusen," he said.
"The market is not yet closed yet, but Gladbach have invested fantastically, while Schalke had a very strong team last season. As always, they will mount a close fight for the title, in addition to us and Bayern."
Borussia Dortmund kicks off the first round of Bundesliga fixtures in defense of its title on Aug. 24 against Werder Bremen.
Jurgen Klopp appeared in high spirits regarding Borussia Dortmund's coup in acquiring forward Marco Reus from fellow Bundesliga side Borussia Monchengladbach.
The 45-year-old coach wasted no time in strengthening his striking options with the acquisition of the Germany international as a replacement for Shinji Kagawa, who left for Manchester United.
Reus, who represented his country at Euro 2012, rejoined his boyhood club for an equivalent sum of 17.5 million euros, a figure Klopp is now suggesting does not reflect the true value of the 23-year-old's talent.
"If we had signed Reus any later, he would have cost much more," Klopp explained to Bild. "We got him cheap, even if it was still for 17.5m euros.
"His market value is honestly much higher than what we paid for him, but it's not as if he feels any pressure - in fact, he doesn't seem to care, and neither do I."
Dortmund pipped Bayern Munich to the league title as well as the DFB-Pokal last season, and while Klopp was quick to assure fans that he was unfazed by the Bavarians' strengthening in the summer transfer window, he admitted they would be strong competitors for honors in the upcoming campaign.
"Bayern Munich's transfer campaign is only natural, where they are seizing every opportunity to reinforce, as are we and the likes of Borussia Monchengladbach, Schalke and Bayer Leverkusen," he said.
"The market is not yet closed yet, but Gladbach have invested fantastically, while Schalke had a very strong team last season. As always, they will mount a close fight for the title, in addition to us and Bayern."
Borussia Dortmund kicks off the first round of Bundesliga fixtures in defense of its title on Aug. 24 against Werder Bremen.
Kaka's agent admits AC Milan talks
Kaka's agent has admitted that he is in talks with AC Milan over the Real Madrid man's possible return to San Siro.
Rossoneri CEO Adriano Galliani hinted on Wednesday morning that the club were interested in re-signing the Brazil international, who left for Los Blancos three years ago, and now the player's representative, Gaetano Paolillo, has confirmed that the deal is under discussion."Yes, we are talking about him," the agent told Sky Sport Italia. "But I can't add further information at the moment."Madrid paid a reported 70 million euros for Kaka during the summer of 2009 but the attacking midfielder has never managed to justify his lofty price tag, with his time in the Spanish capital having been blighted by injuries.
The former Ballon d'Or winner has been predominantly used as an impact substitute since the arrival of Mesut Ozil at the Santiago Bernabeu two years ago.
Madrid assistant coach Aitor Karanka intimated after Tuesday evening's friendly win over Real Oviedo that Kaka had been deemed surplus to requirements, with the club currently set on signing Tottenham midfielder Luka Modric.
Kaka, who has been capped 82 times by his country, has previously been linked with Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain, as well as Brazilian outfit Sao Paulo.
Kaka's agent has admitted that he is in talks with AC Milan over the Real Madrid man's possible return to San Siro.
Rossoneri CEO Adriano Galliani hinted on Wednesday morning that the club were interested in re-signing the Brazil international, who left for Los Blancos three years ago, and now the player's representative, Gaetano Paolillo, has confirmed that the deal is under discussion."Yes, we are talking about him," the agent told Sky Sport Italia. "But I can't add further information at the moment."Madrid paid a reported 70 million euros for Kaka during the summer of 2009 but the attacking midfielder has never managed to justify his lofty price tag, with his time in the Spanish capital having been blighted by injuries.
The former Ballon d'Or winner has been predominantly used as an impact substitute since the arrival of Mesut Ozil at the Santiago Bernabeu two years ago.
Madrid assistant coach Aitor Karanka intimated after Tuesday evening's friendly win over Real Oviedo that Kaka had been deemed surplus to requirements, with the club currently set on signing Tottenham midfielder Luka Modric.
Kaka, who has been capped 82 times by his country, has previously been linked with Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain, as well as Brazilian outfit Sao Paulo.
Ibrahimovic praises new teammates: I feel a part of Paris Saint-Germain already
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has revealed that he already feels at home at Paris Saint-Germain, having been given a warm welcome by his new teammates.
The Sweden international, who completed his move from AC Milan last week, only began preseason training on Tuesday but is set to play some part in Saturday's friendly with DC United.
Ibrahimovic, who netted twice for his country at Euro 2012, explained that he has had little difficulty in settling in but is not yet sure if he is ready for some game time.
"After this training session [on Tuesday], I don't think so," the forward joked in an interview with Le Parisien. "I am just going step by step.
"It's still the preseason, and I must regain my fitness. But I feel good, though I traveled today, so I'm a little tired."
He added, "But I have been waiting for this day since signing to have my first session and meet my teammates.
"I'm happy because this is a very nice group. I've been here less than a day and I feel I am already on the team because of them."
It has been claimed that Ibrahimovic wants Nene's No.10 shirt at PSG, but the 30-year-old is remaining coy on the issue.
"It is not yet decided," the striker explained. "This club is making its decision, but there are many free numbers.
[But] a number is a number. It really depends on the club. Again, we'll see what numbers are free, but it has not yet discussed."
Ibrahimovic, who netted 28 times in Serie A last season, was set to inherit the No.10 jersey at AC Milan following Clarence Seedorf's departure for Botafogo.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has revealed that he already feels at home at Paris Saint-Germain, having been given a warm welcome by his new teammates.
The Sweden international, who completed his move from AC Milan last week, only began preseason training on Tuesday but is set to play some part in Saturday's friendly with DC United.
Ibrahimovic, who netted twice for his country at Euro 2012, explained that he has had little difficulty in settling in but is not yet sure if he is ready for some game time.
"After this training session [on Tuesday], I don't think so," the forward joked in an interview with Le Parisien. "I am just going step by step.
"It's still the preseason, and I must regain my fitness. But I feel good, though I traveled today, so I'm a little tired."
He added, "But I have been waiting for this day since signing to have my first session and meet my teammates.
"I'm happy because this is a very nice group. I've been here less than a day and I feel I am already on the team because of them."
It has been claimed that Ibrahimovic wants Nene's No.10 shirt at PSG, but the 30-year-old is remaining coy on the issue.
"It is not yet decided," the striker explained. "This club is making its decision, but there are many free numbers.
[But] a number is a number. It really depends on the club. Again, we'll see what numbers are free, but it has not yet discussed."
Ibrahimovic, who netted 28 times in Serie A last season, was set to inherit the No.10 jersey at AC Milan following Clarence Seedorf's departure for Botafogo.
Rummenigge: No Bayern interest in Nigel de Jong
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has denied reports linking Bayern Munich with a move for Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong.
It had been claimed that the Bundesliga side were set to make a move for the Dutchman to bolster their options in the middle of the park ahead of the start of the next league campaign.
Goal.com revealed in June that City were set to make one last effort to keep the 27-year-old at the Etihad Stadium by offering an extension to his current deal, which is set to run out at the end of next season.
Despite the speculation surrounding a move, Rummenigge, who is chairman of Bayern's executive board, is adamant that the club have no intention of pursuing De Jong.
"We know that de Jong’s agent offers him anywhere," Rummenigge is quoted as saying during the club's preseason tour of China. "But there is no interest of FC Bayern in him, absolutely not."
The midfielder admitted earlier this year he would like to stay with Roberto Mancini's side beyond next year as he feels settled at the club and is determined to win more trophies with them.
"My contract runs for another year, so I'm in a pretty good position," De Jong told Dutch magazine NUsport.
"I want to stay [at Manchester City]. I've been at the club for three years and I'm feeling really well. I have won the FA Cup and the league title, which are the biggest trophies in England."
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has denied reports linking Bayern Munich with a move for Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong.
It had been claimed that the Bundesliga side were set to make a move for the Dutchman to bolster their options in the middle of the park ahead of the start of the next league campaign.
Goal.com revealed in June that City were set to make one last effort to keep the 27-year-old at the Etihad Stadium by offering an extension to his current deal, which is set to run out at the end of next season.
Despite the speculation surrounding a move, Rummenigge, who is chairman of Bayern's executive board, is adamant that the club have no intention of pursuing De Jong.
"We know that de Jong’s agent offers him anywhere," Rummenigge is quoted as saying during the club's preseason tour of China. "But there is no interest of FC Bayern in him, absolutely not."
The midfielder admitted earlier this year he would like to stay with Roberto Mancini's side beyond next year as he feels settled at the club and is determined to win more trophies with them.
"My contract runs for another year, so I'm in a pretty good position," De Jong told Dutch magazine NUsport.
"I want to stay [at Manchester City]. I've been at the club for three years and I'm feeling really well. I have won the FA Cup and the league title, which are the biggest trophies in England."
Redknapp will speak with Kanu in bid to save Portsmouth
Former Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp has announced he will speak with Nwankwo Kanu in a bid to help save the club.
The Fratton Park outfit could face extinction with administrator Trevor Birch setting a deadline of August 10 for the club to solve their chronic financial problems.
Kanu is claiming he is owed £3 million in unpaid wages but Redknapp, who brought the Nigerian striker to the club in 2006, will attempt to persuade him to compromise on a settlement.
Tal Ben Haim is in a similar situation, having failed to reach an agreement to terminate his reported £36,000-a-week deal, and claims he has lost £2.5m.
"I will be ringing Kanu today to see if there is anything I can do," Redknapp told ESPN. "I signed him for Portsmouth on a one-year contract and Tony Adams told me: 'You must be mad, he is finished'. Six years later, he is still there.
"In the case of Tal Ben Haim, if players have a contract and are owed money, you can see why they think they should get it. But if the club closes down they won't get a penny. They need to think hard about that."
The out-of-work coach also spoke of his desire to see an injection of cash into Portsmouth, the club he led to FA Cup success in 2008.
"Portsmouth has got to be saved," he pleaded. "It's a great club with great traditions. It would be a disaster if this club went out of business.
"It has great fans to the extent that, if you live in Portsmouth, you are a Portsmouth supporter. If you walk around in that town, you don't see people wearing Manchester United or Arsenal shirts.
"It is soul-destroying to see them in this predicament, and there must be a group of people out there or someone who could take over the club so cheaply and save them.
"I would love to see someone do that. Surely it cannot happen that Portsmouth go out of business. If someone did come in, the club could be resurrected quickly. It wouldn't take a lot to get it going again."
Redknapp also reminisced of Milan Mandaric's reign as the club's owner, claiming Portsmouth have 'spiraled out of control' since his exit in 2006.
"I remember when Milan came in and bought the club all those years ago, they were looking to lock the gates then and go into administration - but he turned it all around and made it work," he claimed.
"When he sold the club, it spiraled out of control. Balram Chainrai put a lot of money in, but he must think it is the worst investment he ever made in his life. But now it just needs some people who understand football and who can work with the players."
Former Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp has announced he will speak with Nwankwo Kanu in a bid to help save the club.
The Fratton Park outfit could face extinction with administrator Trevor Birch setting a deadline of August 10 for the club to solve their chronic financial problems.
Kanu is claiming he is owed £3 million in unpaid wages but Redknapp, who brought the Nigerian striker to the club in 2006, will attempt to persuade him to compromise on a settlement.
Tal Ben Haim is in a similar situation, having failed to reach an agreement to terminate his reported £36,000-a-week deal, and claims he has lost £2.5m.
"I will be ringing Kanu today to see if there is anything I can do," Redknapp told ESPN. "I signed him for Portsmouth on a one-year contract and Tony Adams told me: 'You must be mad, he is finished'. Six years later, he is still there.
"In the case of Tal Ben Haim, if players have a contract and are owed money, you can see why they think they should get it. But if the club closes down they won't get a penny. They need to think hard about that."
The out-of-work coach also spoke of his desire to see an injection of cash into Portsmouth, the club he led to FA Cup success in 2008.
"Portsmouth has got to be saved," he pleaded. "It's a great club with great traditions. It would be a disaster if this club went out of business.
"It has great fans to the extent that, if you live in Portsmouth, you are a Portsmouth supporter. If you walk around in that town, you don't see people wearing Manchester United or Arsenal shirts.
"It is soul-destroying to see them in this predicament, and there must be a group of people out there or someone who could take over the club so cheaply and save them.
"I would love to see someone do that. Surely it cannot happen that Portsmouth go out of business. If someone did come in, the club could be resurrected quickly. It wouldn't take a lot to get it going again."
Redknapp also reminisced of Milan Mandaric's reign as the club's owner, claiming Portsmouth have 'spiraled out of control' since his exit in 2006.
"I remember when Milan came in and bought the club all those years ago, they were looking to lock the gates then and go into administration - but he turned it all around and made it work," he claimed.
"When he sold the club, it spiraled out of control. Balram Chainrai put a lot of money in, but he must think it is the worst investment he ever made in his life. But now it just needs some people who understand football and who can work with the players."
Friedel, at 41, taking his career one day at a time
CARSON, Calif. -- Brad Friedel is an anachronism. Not only is he from a different time – at 41 he claims he's entering his 21st season – but he's seven years older than his coach, 34-year-old Andre Villas-Boas.
So not much fazes him, including the possibility of losing his starting goalkeeper spot at Tottenham. Carlo Cudicini started a 1-1 friendly draw with the LA Galaxy.
"I think we brought three goalkeepers out last time out; we each played a game," Friedel said. "I think that's probably the plan this time out."
He expects to man the pipes against either Liverpool or the New York Red Bulls during Spurs' U.S. tour. In the meantime, he's enjoying California's warmth.
"It's nice to see the sun," the Ohio native said through the fuzz of a British accent. "We've had terrible weather since April."
During the trip the Tottenham players have dealt with a new manager for the first time. Villas-Boas replaced Harry Redknapp during the offseason. Again, Friedel has seen it all.
"Every manager's different," he said. "This is my 21st season – I've worked with a lot of managers."
So what sets the former Porto and Chelsea boss apart? Friedel repeated the words "dedication" and "professionalism" twice.
"His professionalism and dedication and energy that he's brought to training's been good," the former U.S. international said. "All the players are in really good spirits and we're really looking forward to the season."
After the match Villas-Boas talked briefly about his inexperience as a head coach. He went through the league season undefeated with Porto before moving to Chelsea, where he was fired mid-way through the season.
How does Friedel deal with a manager so much younger than him?
"A lot of people have asked me this question," the former Liverpool, Blackburn and Aston Villa goalkeeper said. "Yes, I am older than him, but he's got far more years experience as a manager. I have zero. So he's much older than me when it comes to managerial experience."
Friedel isn't the only one giving his new coach respect. Former Tottenham striker Robbie Keane gave the inside scoop on his chats with his former teammates.
"I've spoken to a lot of players in the game who have worked with him and even the guys now," Keane said. "His training sessions, his attention to detail is second to none. I'm sure he'll do a great job."
Keane made the jump to MLS with the LA Galaxy midway through the 2011 season, winning the Supporters' Shield and MLS Cup. Friedel praised the arrivals of players like Keane in helping boost the league's profile the past several seasons.
"The profile and the aura of the league is coming on," Friedel, who played for the Columbus Crew in 1996 and 1997, said. "There's lots of people out there that ask me day-in and day-out, 'Can you get me a club in the MLS?' It's getting better, it's getting better."
Any chance the burly, bald American comes home to play in MLS?
"At 41 years of age, we'll see," he demurred. "I'm taking it sort of day at a time, not even season at a time right now. We'll just see how the body is in April and we'll see if I'll carry on some more or not."
CARSON, Calif. -- Brad Friedel is an anachronism. Not only is he from a different time – at 41 he claims he's entering his 21st season – but he's seven years older than his coach, 34-year-old Andre Villas-Boas.
So not much fazes him, including the possibility of losing his starting goalkeeper spot at Tottenham. Carlo Cudicini started a 1-1 friendly draw with the LA Galaxy.
"I think we brought three goalkeepers out last time out; we each played a game," Friedel said. "I think that's probably the plan this time out."
He expects to man the pipes against either Liverpool or the New York Red Bulls during Spurs' U.S. tour. In the meantime, he's enjoying California's warmth.
"It's nice to see the sun," the Ohio native said through the fuzz of a British accent. "We've had terrible weather since April."
During the trip the Tottenham players have dealt with a new manager for the first time. Villas-Boas replaced Harry Redknapp during the offseason. Again, Friedel has seen it all.
"Every manager's different," he said. "This is my 21st season – I've worked with a lot of managers."
So what sets the former Porto and Chelsea boss apart? Friedel repeated the words "dedication" and "professionalism" twice.
"His professionalism and dedication and energy that he's brought to training's been good," the former U.S. international said. "All the players are in really good spirits and we're really looking forward to the season."
After the match Villas-Boas talked briefly about his inexperience as a head coach. He went through the league season undefeated with Porto before moving to Chelsea, where he was fired mid-way through the season.
How does Friedel deal with a manager so much younger than him?
"A lot of people have asked me this question," the former Liverpool, Blackburn and Aston Villa goalkeeper said. "Yes, I am older than him, but he's got far more years experience as a manager. I have zero. So he's much older than me when it comes to managerial experience."
Friedel isn't the only one giving his new coach respect. Former Tottenham striker Robbie Keane gave the inside scoop on his chats with his former teammates.
"I've spoken to a lot of players in the game who have worked with him and even the guys now," Keane said. "His training sessions, his attention to detail is second to none. I'm sure he'll do a great job."
Keane made the jump to MLS with the LA Galaxy midway through the 2011 season, winning the Supporters' Shield and MLS Cup. Friedel praised the arrivals of players like Keane in helping boost the league's profile the past several seasons.
"The profile and the aura of the league is coming on," Friedel, who played for the Columbus Crew in 1996 and 1997, said. "There's lots of people out there that ask me day-in and day-out, 'Can you get me a club in the MLS?' It's getting better, it's getting better."
Any chance the burly, bald American comes home to play in MLS?
"At 41 years of age, we'll see," he demurred. "I'm taking it sort of day at a time, not even season at a time right now. We'll just see how the body is in April and we'll see if I'll carry on some more or not."
Villas-Boas welcomes Modric apology
CARSON, Calif. – Luka Modric has apologized to Tottenham for skipping a U.S. preseason tour and is back in training in London. Andre Villas-Boas welcomed the decision even if he doesn't expect the Croatian midfielder to remain with his club.
"He has spoken to me and the chairman. His apology comes and it's well welcomed," Villas-Boas said after a preseason friendly that finished 1-1 with the LA Galaxy. "He's now training and we hopefully make the right decision in the future. We're just waiting on the bidding clubs to offer the right value for a player of big dimension."
AVB declined to name Tottenham's asking price ("I'm not the chairman"), but reports in England suggest it pushes the 40 million pound mark.
"[Modric is] of course an extremely good player that has helped Tottenham reach success in the last couple of years," the Portuguese coach said. "I think the fact that it's been difficult for us to deal with clubs is because of Luka's dimension as a player and what he did for the team. He's an extremely good player. Any coach would like to count on a player of that dimension."
As it stands Modric will remain in England to train. Villas-Boas felt that the compressed travel and "tremendous heat" of the remainder of the U.S. trip wouldn't necessarily help bring the 26-year-old's fitness up to par.
"We decided for him to stay in London. That's something that I have to judge," the former Chelsea boss said. "I think it would be unsensible to bring Luka back, but still a decision can be taken."
The 34-year-old manager seems resigned to losing the midfield schemer. Should that come to pass it would hinder Villas-Boas' efforts in his first season with the north London club, says former Hotspur striker Robbie Keane.
"When you're this far across the water it's very difficult to keep track of what things are going on," Keane said of Modric's situation. "Listen, if you lose him he's obviously a top, top player. It'd be a shame for Tottenham to lose a top player like him."
CARSON, Calif. – Luka Modric has apologized to Tottenham for skipping a U.S. preseason tour and is back in training in London. Andre Villas-Boas welcomed the decision even if he doesn't expect the Croatian midfielder to remain with his club.
"He has spoken to me and the chairman. His apology comes and it's well welcomed," Villas-Boas said after a preseason friendly that finished 1-1 with the LA Galaxy. "He's now training and we hopefully make the right decision in the future. We're just waiting on the bidding clubs to offer the right value for a player of big dimension."
AVB declined to name Tottenham's asking price ("I'm not the chairman"), but reports in England suggest it pushes the 40 million pound mark.
"[Modric is] of course an extremely good player that has helped Tottenham reach success in the last couple of years," the Portuguese coach said. "I think the fact that it's been difficult for us to deal with clubs is because of Luka's dimension as a player and what he did for the team. He's an extremely good player. Any coach would like to count on a player of that dimension."
As it stands Modric will remain in England to train. Villas-Boas felt that the compressed travel and "tremendous heat" of the remainder of the U.S. trip wouldn't necessarily help bring the 26-year-old's fitness up to par.
"We decided for him to stay in London. That's something that I have to judge," the former Chelsea boss said. "I think it would be unsensible to bring Luka back, but still a decision can be taken."
The 34-year-old manager seems resigned to losing the midfield schemer. Should that come to pass it would hinder Villas-Boas' efforts in his first season with the north London club, says former Hotspur striker Robbie Keane.
"When you're this far across the water it's very difficult to keep track of what things are going on," Keane said of Modric's situation. "Listen, if you lose him he's obviously a top, top player. It'd be a shame for Tottenham to lose a top player like him."
Liverpool 1-2 Roma: Michael Bradley scores first Roma goal in Fenway Park friendly win
Liverpool fell to its first pre-season defeat, losing 2-1 to Serie A side Roma in front of a capacity crowd at Boston's Fenway Park.
Second half strikers from Michael Bradley and Alessandro Florenzi proved to be enough for the Giallorossi, despite a late effort from Reds' midfielder Charlie Adam.
Roma had the better of the early going and created the game's first real opening as Panagiotis Tachtsidis shot straight at Peter Gulacsi.
The Reds quickly grew into the contest and came close to taking the lead when Sterling was denied from close range by Romanian keeper Bogdan Lobont. Liverpool was soon back on the defensive however, as Gulacsi had to be called into action to turn an Osvaldo effort round the post after a fine break from the Italians.
Midfielder Jonjo Shelvey was at the center of the majority of Liverpool's attacks in the first half, and the 20-year-old almost netted a spectacular solo goal as he beat several Roma defenders before his shot was tipped away by Lobont, Eccleston followed up but his strike flew high and wide.
Liverpool continued in the ascendancy and fashioned the best chance of the opening period as Alberto Aquilani's through ball over the top found Joe Cole, the former Chelsea man showed great awareness to try and chip the ball over Lobont from long range but his effort bounced off the top of the crossbar.
Despite a high number of substitutions during the halftime interval the game continued to be played at a surprisingly fast tempo, and the deadlock was nearly broken three minutes after the break when substitute keeper Brad Jones produced a fine save with his feet to deny Tachtsidis from outside the box.
14 minutes later, the Serie A side did take the lead as American international Michael Bradley turned smartly inside the box before firing a low shot past Jones and into the bottom corner.
Roma's advantage was quickly doubled as a fine move was finished off by Alessandro Florenzi, who rolled the ball into an empty net after latching onto a flick from Erik Lamela.
The Serie A outfit appeared to be cruising to victory, but 10 minutes from time Liverpool gained a foothold in the contest as Adam fired in from the edge of the box after collecting a pass from Daniel Pacheco.
That goal proved to be little more than a consolation however as the Reds were unable to mount any kind of an incisive attack in the closing stages, condemning Rodgers' men to their first defeat as they continue their preparation for the new Premier League campaign.
Liverpool fell to its first pre-season defeat, losing 2-1 to Serie A side Roma in front of a capacity crowd at Boston's Fenway Park.
Second half strikers from Michael Bradley and Alessandro Florenzi proved to be enough for the Giallorossi, despite a late effort from Reds' midfielder Charlie Adam.
Roma had the better of the early going and created the game's first real opening as Panagiotis Tachtsidis shot straight at Peter Gulacsi.
The Reds quickly grew into the contest and came close to taking the lead when Sterling was denied from close range by Romanian keeper Bogdan Lobont. Liverpool was soon back on the defensive however, as Gulacsi had to be called into action to turn an Osvaldo effort round the post after a fine break from the Italians.
Midfielder Jonjo Shelvey was at the center of the majority of Liverpool's attacks in the first half, and the 20-year-old almost netted a spectacular solo goal as he beat several Roma defenders before his shot was tipped away by Lobont, Eccleston followed up but his strike flew high and wide.
Liverpool continued in the ascendancy and fashioned the best chance of the opening period as Alberto Aquilani's through ball over the top found Joe Cole, the former Chelsea man showed great awareness to try and chip the ball over Lobont from long range but his effort bounced off the top of the crossbar.
Despite a high number of substitutions during the halftime interval the game continued to be played at a surprisingly fast tempo, and the deadlock was nearly broken three minutes after the break when substitute keeper Brad Jones produced a fine save with his feet to deny Tachtsidis from outside the box.
14 minutes later, the Serie A side did take the lead as American international Michael Bradley turned smartly inside the box before firing a low shot past Jones and into the bottom corner.
Roma's advantage was quickly doubled as a fine move was finished off by Alessandro Florenzi, who rolled the ball into an empty net after latching onto a flick from Erik Lamela.
The Serie A outfit appeared to be cruising to victory, but 10 minutes from time Liverpool gained a foothold in the contest as Adam fired in from the edge of the box after collecting a pass from Daniel Pacheco.
That goal proved to be little more than a consolation however as the Reds were unable to mount any kind of an incisive attack in the closing stages, condemning Rodgers' men to their first defeat as they continue their preparation for the new Premier League campaign.
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