Indonesia 0-7 Arsenal: Giroud, Podolski & Walcott on target in emphatic friendly win
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Schalke will overtake Dortmund, warns Heldt
The Veltins Arena chief is confident that the club will be better than their Ruhr rivals soon, though accepted that Julian Draxler's days are numbered
Schalke general manager Horst Heldt has claimed that his side will leapfrog arch-rivals Borussia Dortmund in terms of quality in the near future.
BVB relinquished their Bundesliga crown to Bayern Munich last season after back-to-back wins in 2010 and 2011 and, despite being praised for reaching the Champions League final, were beaten by the Bavarians on Europe's biggest stage.
Heldt has high hopes that the Gelsenkirchen club - who finished fourth in the BuLi in 2012-13 - will become a better team than their Ruhr rivals soon.
"Dortmund have been ahead of us for a long time now," he told Bild on Sunday. "However, we will overtake them again in the near future."
Schalke have the likes of Julian Draxler and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar to rely upon in the hopes of overtaking Dortmund this season, although Heldt was realistic about the chances of keeping Germany international Draxler in the long term.
"If Draxler keeps on developing at the same pace, we can expect him to leave the club at some point," the Veltins Arena chief admitted.
In addition to their current squad, the Konigsblauen have signed the likes of Adam Szalai from Mainz for a reported €8 million, Leon Goretzka from Bochum and Felipe Santana from Signal Iduna Park.
The Veltins Arena chief is confident that the club will be better than their Ruhr rivals soon, though accepted that Julian Draxler's days are numbered
Schalke general manager Horst Heldt has claimed that his side will leapfrog arch-rivals Borussia Dortmund in terms of quality in the near future.
BVB relinquished their Bundesliga crown to Bayern Munich last season after back-to-back wins in 2010 and 2011 and, despite being praised for reaching the Champions League final, were beaten by the Bavarians on Europe's biggest stage.
Heldt has high hopes that the Gelsenkirchen club - who finished fourth in the BuLi in 2012-13 - will become a better team than their Ruhr rivals soon.
"Dortmund have been ahead of us for a long time now," he told Bild on Sunday. "However, we will overtake them again in the near future."
Schalke have the likes of Julian Draxler and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar to rely upon in the hopes of overtaking Dortmund this season, although Heldt was realistic about the chances of keeping Germany international Draxler in the long term.
"If Draxler keeps on developing at the same pace, we can expect him to leave the club at some point," the Veltins Arena chief admitted.
In addition to their current squad, the Konigsblauen have signed the likes of Adam Szalai from Mainz for a reported €8 million, Leon Goretzka from Bochum and Felipe Santana from Signal Iduna Park.
'Ronaldo is star Madrid attraction' - Illarramendi
The latest Blancos signing hopes his Spain Under-21 team-mates will help him settle in at the Santiago Bernabeu and has pledged to give his all for his new side
New Real Madrid signing Asier Illarramendi feels that Cristiano Ronaldo is the "star attraction" at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The midfielder was showcased to fans on Saturday following his €32 million move from Real Sociedad on a six-year deal and it has not taken long for him to shower praise on the Ballon d'Or-winning Portuguese winger.
"Madrid have amazing footballers, but I think Ronaldo is the star attraction," he said to his new club's official website. "He’s incredible, the best in the world and we need to go all out with him. Let’s hope we have a great year, full of successes."
Illarramendi has pledged to give 100 per cent in a Blancos shirt and hopes that the presence of Spain Under-21 team-mates in Carlo Ancelotti's side will help him settle in with ease this summer.
"I think I’m someone who gives my all every day and who tries to get better every day," the 23-year-old added. "On the pitch I also try my heart out.
"How things turn out well depends on many factors, but it won’t ever be for lack of effort. When I go out to play I try to do my best, with the best possible attitude.
"I know some players from the national team already and that will help me adjust. They are good friends and I think between us all the team will be great."
The latest Blancos signing hopes his Spain Under-21 team-mates will help him settle in at the Santiago Bernabeu and has pledged to give his all for his new side
New Real Madrid signing Asier Illarramendi feels that Cristiano Ronaldo is the "star attraction" at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The midfielder was showcased to fans on Saturday following his €32 million move from Real Sociedad on a six-year deal and it has not taken long for him to shower praise on the Ballon d'Or-winning Portuguese winger.
"Madrid have amazing footballers, but I think Ronaldo is the star attraction," he said to his new club's official website. "He’s incredible, the best in the world and we need to go all out with him. Let’s hope we have a great year, full of successes."
Illarramendi has pledged to give 100 per cent in a Blancos shirt and hopes that the presence of Spain Under-21 team-mates in Carlo Ancelotti's side will help him settle in with ease this summer.
"I think I’m someone who gives my all every day and who tries to get better every day," the 23-year-old added. "On the pitch I also try my heart out.
"How things turn out well depends on many factors, but it won’t ever be for lack of effort. When I go out to play I try to do my best, with the best possible attitude.
"I know some players from the national team already and that will help me adjust. They are good friends and I think between us all the team will be great."
Pellegrini: Maicon will leave Man City
The Chilean is not worried by a 2-0 friendly loss to Supersport United and revealed that the Blues are looking to wrap up new arrivals before the end of July
Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini has confirmed that Maicon will leave the club this summer.
The defender joined the Etihad Stadium from Inter for around €4 million a year ago but has struggled to find a permanent spot in the first team.
As rumours increase that the Brazilian is set to join Roma, the Chilean coach has revealed that the full-back will not be a Blues player much longer and claimed City will bolster their ranks before the end of July.
"We are not in a hurry to bring new players in but we are clear that we need two or three more before the season begins," Pellegrini told the club's official website.
"Maicon didn't come here to the pre-season and he will not be in the squad at Manchester City this year.
"It's difficult to say a date for any new arrivals but, before July finishes, I think we will have more players."
South African side Supersport United defeated City 2-0 to see the side begin their pre-season preparations in disappointing fashion, but the Chilean claims that he expected the loss despite the strong starting XI that he chose to field.
Pellegrini said: "The players were clear with what they had to do in this game. I spoke with them before the match and we had four or five days working together.
"We're not prepared to play the way we want them to play so this was a normal match for pre-season. I'm not worried and this is what we expected."
The Chilean is not worried by a 2-0 friendly loss to Supersport United and revealed that the Blues are looking to wrap up new arrivals before the end of July
Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini has confirmed that Maicon will leave the club this summer.
The defender joined the Etihad Stadium from Inter for around €4 million a year ago but has struggled to find a permanent spot in the first team.
As rumours increase that the Brazilian is set to join Roma, the Chilean coach has revealed that the full-back will not be a Blues player much longer and claimed City will bolster their ranks before the end of July.
"We are not in a hurry to bring new players in but we are clear that we need two or three more before the season begins," Pellegrini told the club's official website.
"Maicon didn't come here to the pre-season and he will not be in the squad at Manchester City this year.
"It's difficult to say a date for any new arrivals but, before July finishes, I think we will have more players."
South African side Supersport United defeated City 2-0 to see the side begin their pre-season preparations in disappointing fashion, but the Chilean claims that he expected the loss despite the strong starting XI that he chose to field.
Pellegrini said: "The players were clear with what they had to do in this game. I spoke with them before the match and we had four or five days working together.
"We're not prepared to play the way we want them to play so this was a normal match for pre-season. I'm not worried and this is what we expected."
'Tevez is a true warrior' - Lippi
The former Bianconeri boss has praised the signing of the forward and believes that the Serie A will finish with the Turin club on top again this season
Iconic ex-Juventus coach Marcello Lippi has branded Carlos Tevez a "true warrior" and suggested that the Scudetto is already in the reigning champions' hands before a ball has been kicked.
The Argentine striker joined Antonio Conte's side for an estimated €12 million earlier this month from Manchester City on a three-year deal and was given the No.10 shirt ahead of the new Serie A season.
Lippi, who took the Bianconeri to five league titles during his two spells at the Turin-based club, is convinced that the ex-Manchester United attacker will be a huge success in Italy.
"Tevez is a true warrior and, in my opinion, a great signing," the current Guangzhou Evergrande boss told La Stampa. "He's technically very good and has great character and will to fight."
The World Cup-winning trainer also expressed his opinion that Juve are the runaway favourites to claim glory in Serie A this season and praised Conte for the way he has adapted his ability to lead from playing into coaching.
"Juventus will win Serie A," he added. "I think the title is already theirs.
"Conte, as a captain, was a real leader, and he has clearly maintained that as a coach. I always knew he would become a good coach."
Despite putting faith in Conte and Co.'s chances in Italy, the former Italy head coach believes that Real Madrid - under new trainer Carlo Ancelotti - will win the Champions League.
Lippi added: "In Europe, I see the favourites as Real Madrid. I think Ancelotti is the right person for that team."
The former Bianconeri boss has praised the signing of the forward and believes that the Serie A will finish with the Turin club on top again this season
Iconic ex-Juventus coach Marcello Lippi has branded Carlos Tevez a "true warrior" and suggested that the Scudetto is already in the reigning champions' hands before a ball has been kicked.
The Argentine striker joined Antonio Conte's side for an estimated €12 million earlier this month from Manchester City on a three-year deal and was given the No.10 shirt ahead of the new Serie A season.
Lippi, who took the Bianconeri to five league titles during his two spells at the Turin-based club, is convinced that the ex-Manchester United attacker will be a huge success in Italy.
"Tevez is a true warrior and, in my opinion, a great signing," the current Guangzhou Evergrande boss told La Stampa. "He's technically very good and has great character and will to fight."
The World Cup-winning trainer also expressed his opinion that Juve are the runaway favourites to claim glory in Serie A this season and praised Conte for the way he has adapted his ability to lead from playing into coaching.
"Juventus will win Serie A," he added. "I think the title is already theirs.
"Conte, as a captain, was a real leader, and he has clearly maintained that as a coach. I always knew he would become a good coach."
Despite putting faith in Conte and Co.'s chances in Italy, the former Italy head coach believes that Real Madrid - under new trainer Carlo Ancelotti - will win the Champions League.
Lippi added: "In Europe, I see the favourites as Real Madrid. I think Ancelotti is the right person for that team."
Forlan scores directly from corner
The Internacional striker scored a double to give his side a 3-2 win over Brazilian champions Fluminense but it was his second goal in particular which stunned supporters Diego Forlan scored directly from a corner this weekend to help Internacional to a 3-2 win over Fluminense.
The ex-Manchester United, Atletico Madrid and Inter forward is known for his venomous hits from distance and being a danger from a set-piece - though usually it is the 35-year-old's free kicks that rustle the back of the net, not his corners!
Check out the video above from Saturday's Brasileirao clash, in which the Uruguay international scored twice in Rio de Janeiro, and let us know in the comment section where you think the strike rates in Forlan's finest efforts.
The Internacional striker scored a double to give his side a 3-2 win over Brazilian champions Fluminense but it was his second goal in particular which stunned supporters Diego Forlan scored directly from a corner this weekend to help Internacional to a 3-2 win over Fluminense.
The ex-Manchester United, Atletico Madrid and Inter forward is known for his venomous hits from distance and being a danger from a set-piece - though usually it is the 35-year-old's free kicks that rustle the back of the net, not his corners!
Check out the video above from Saturday's Brasileirao clash, in which the Uruguay international scored twice in Rio de Janeiro, and let us know in the comment section where you think the strike rates in Forlan's finest efforts.
Ibrahimovic 'to make way for Cavani'
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has hinted that Zlatan Ibrahimovic will leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer, just as the Ligue 1 champions are poised to complete Edinson Cavani's move from the Serie A club.
Although he signed a three-year contract with PSG only last summer, Ibrahimovic, 31, has been linked to both Manchester City and Real Madrid - where he would be reunited with Carlo Ancelotti - within the last week.
The Sweden international is close to Ancelotti and spoke of his disappointment at the Italian leaving the Parc des Princes after leading the club to the French title last season.Ibrahimovic's agent, Mino Raiola, and PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi have both recently stated that last term's Ligue 1 leading scorer will not be leaving, but De Laurentiis believes otherwise.
"He won't play with Cavani," the Napoli president said, before officially presenting his club's new coach, Rafael Benitez, to the media. "He's already been promised to other horizons."While the phrase casts doubt on Ibrahimovic's future, it all but confirms Cavani's, with the Uruguay international due to fly into France from his native country to finalise his Ligue 1 record €64 million switch to Paris.
Various French media sources report the prolific striker, who finished as top scorer in Serie A last season with 29 goals, will undergo a medical on Monday, before finalising the details of a five-year, €10 million-a-season deal with PSG sporting director Leonardo and managing director Jean-Claude Blanc.
If De Laurentiis is to be believed, the negotiations are likely to be lively as he claims the former Palermo man's interest is primarily financial."We need to have 11 top players,” he said. “If he didn't have the others in the side, Cavani would never have scored 30 goals. Cavani is just hooked on money."
Al Khelaifi, who has been in his native Qatar for the start of Ramadan, is due to return to Paris to attend Cavani's official unveiling, which is reportedly set for Tuesday in front of the Eiffel Tower - the same place where Ibrahimovic was first displayed to the media and fans a year ago.Cavani is then due to return to Uruguay to continue his holidays, before starting training with the PSG squad at the end of the month.
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has hinted that Zlatan Ibrahimovic will leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer, just as the Ligue 1 champions are poised to complete Edinson Cavani's move from the Serie A club.
Although he signed a three-year contract with PSG only last summer, Ibrahimovic, 31, has been linked to both Manchester City and Real Madrid - where he would be reunited with Carlo Ancelotti - within the last week.
The Sweden international is close to Ancelotti and spoke of his disappointment at the Italian leaving the Parc des Princes after leading the club to the French title last season.Ibrahimovic's agent, Mino Raiola, and PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi have both recently stated that last term's Ligue 1 leading scorer will not be leaving, but De Laurentiis believes otherwise.
"He won't play with Cavani," the Napoli president said, before officially presenting his club's new coach, Rafael Benitez, to the media. "He's already been promised to other horizons."While the phrase casts doubt on Ibrahimovic's future, it all but confirms Cavani's, with the Uruguay international due to fly into France from his native country to finalise his Ligue 1 record €64 million switch to Paris.
Various French media sources report the prolific striker, who finished as top scorer in Serie A last season with 29 goals, will undergo a medical on Monday, before finalising the details of a five-year, €10 million-a-season deal with PSG sporting director Leonardo and managing director Jean-Claude Blanc.
If De Laurentiis is to be believed, the negotiations are likely to be lively as he claims the former Palermo man's interest is primarily financial."We need to have 11 top players,” he said. “If he didn't have the others in the side, Cavani would never have scored 30 goals. Cavani is just hooked on money."
Al Khelaifi, who has been in his native Qatar for the start of Ramadan, is due to return to Paris to attend Cavani's official unveiling, which is reportedly set for Tuesday in front of the Eiffel Tower - the same place where Ibrahimovic was first displayed to the media and fans a year ago.Cavani is then due to return to Uruguay to continue his holidays, before starting training with the PSG squad at the end of the month.
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Manchester United bid €30m for Fabregas
Manchester United have made a €30 million bid for Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas, according to reports in England and Spain.
ESPN FC reported on the Premier League champions' interest in the former Arsenal captain back in May. Now, after losing out on another target - Thiago Alcantara, who has joined European champions Bayern Munich - United have rekindled their interest in Fabregas.Spanish daily AS reported on Monday that a €30 million bid has been tabled, while the Daily Mirror reports from United's pre-season tour in Australia that club sources have confirmed an offer has been made. The Associated Press also cites an Old Trafford source as confirming the offer.
However, Barcelona are expected to reject the bid, in part due to the loss of Thiago at the weekend. Another complication in any potential transfer is that Arsenal have first refusal on the 26-year-old, as part of the deal which saw him leave the Emirates Stadium to return to his boyhood club in 2011.
Fabregas himself has insisted he is happy at the Camp Nou, where he won the Spanish league title last season, and is determined to make a success of his move back to Spain."It has taken a lot for me to get where I am, and I am not thinking about throwing it all away for nothing," he told Marca last month.
"If they [Barcelona] said that they didn't want me, that would be another thing - but what I really want is to triumph at Barca. That has been my dream since I was small. Barcelona is my home, and I have always dreamed of triumphing here."
Manchester United have made a €30 million bid for Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas, according to reports in England and Spain.
ESPN FC reported on the Premier League champions' interest in the former Arsenal captain back in May. Now, after losing out on another target - Thiago Alcantara, who has joined European champions Bayern Munich - United have rekindled their interest in Fabregas.Spanish daily AS reported on Monday that a €30 million bid has been tabled, while the Daily Mirror reports from United's pre-season tour in Australia that club sources have confirmed an offer has been made. The Associated Press also cites an Old Trafford source as confirming the offer.
However, Barcelona are expected to reject the bid, in part due to the loss of Thiago at the weekend. Another complication in any potential transfer is that Arsenal have first refusal on the 26-year-old, as part of the deal which saw him leave the Emirates Stadium to return to his boyhood club in 2011.
Fabregas himself has insisted he is happy at the Camp Nou, where he won the Spanish league title last season, and is determined to make a success of his move back to Spain."It has taken a lot for me to get where I am, and I am not thinking about throwing it all away for nothing," he told Marca last month.
"If they [Barcelona] said that they didn't want me, that would be another thing - but what I really want is to triumph at Barca. That has been my dream since I was small. Barcelona is my home, and I have always dreamed of triumphing here."
Pellegrini planning to strengthen Manchester City squad
After falling to defeat in his first game in charge in a pre-season friendly in South Africa, the Chilean says he wants two players for every position in his squad Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini reiterated his desire to strengthen his squad after his first match in charge of the Premier League runners-up ended in a 2-0 defeat to SuperSport in South Africa on Sunday.
Having sold Carlos Tevez to Juventus, City are short of options in attack although Goal understands the club are closing in on a a double swoop for Stefan Jovetic and Alvaro Negredo.
Edin Dzeko missed chances as City failed to score in the first half, before the manager fielded a largely reserve team for the second half and saw his side concede two goals without reply before Yaya Toure was forced off through injury.
Pellegrini admitted after the game that he was keen to dip into the transfer market but would not be rushed into any signings.
"We are aware that we need two or three more players," he told reporters after the match.
"It's important to have a very good squad. I said before we came to South Africa that we need two players for each position and that's what we are looking for and I'm sure we will get them.
"It's difficult to say exactly which day but before the end of the month we will have a new attacker.
"We are working hard on new acquisitions before the start of the new season but we are not in an immediate hurry to bring them on board."
After falling to defeat in his first game in charge in a pre-season friendly in South Africa, the Chilean says he wants two players for every position in his squad Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini reiterated his desire to strengthen his squad after his first match in charge of the Premier League runners-up ended in a 2-0 defeat to SuperSport in South Africa on Sunday.
Having sold Carlos Tevez to Juventus, City are short of options in attack although Goal understands the club are closing in on a a double swoop for Stefan Jovetic and Alvaro Negredo.
Edin Dzeko missed chances as City failed to score in the first half, before the manager fielded a largely reserve team for the second half and saw his side concede two goals without reply before Yaya Toure was forced off through injury.
Pellegrini admitted after the game that he was keen to dip into the transfer market but would not be rushed into any signings.
"We are aware that we need two or three more players," he told reporters after the match.
"It's important to have a very good squad. I said before we came to South Africa that we need two players for each position and that's what we are looking for and I'm sure we will get them.
"It's difficult to say exactly which day but before the end of the month we will have a new attacker.
"We are working hard on new acquisitions before the start of the new season but we are not in an immediate hurry to bring them on board."
Cavani price absurd, admits De Laurentiis
The Napoli president is shocked that PSG are willing to pay around €63 million for the striker and joked about how much he is set to get for the striker Paris Saint-Germain's offer for Napoli striker Edinson Cavani is absurdly high, according to the Italian club's president Antonio de Laurentiis.
The Uruguay international has scored over 20 goals in each of the past three Serie A seasons and carried Napoli to second place in 2012-13, earning them a spot in the Champions League group stage.
PSG are expected to announce the deal's completion on Tuesday, though De Laurentiis has claimed that he would have refused to sell the 26-year-old to the Ligue 1 champions if there was not already a €63 million contract clause in place.
"Without Cavani's clause, I would not have considered selling him," De Laurentiis told reporters. "It is a matter of principle. You cannot buy everything because it’s not good on an ethical level.
"The problem with these clubs is that they are owned by businesses that are run by presidents who will pay absurd figures.
"As for Cavani, each year I had to increase his price. It got so high, to a point where it was more than what Bayern Munich made for winning the Champions League.
"Then he began telling me he wanted to leave, so I told him to put forth the release clause. I’m sure Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea would never have spent €63m."
The Napoli president is shocked that PSG are willing to pay around €63 million for the striker and joked about how much he is set to get for the striker Paris Saint-Germain's offer for Napoli striker Edinson Cavani is absurdly high, according to the Italian club's president Antonio de Laurentiis.
The Uruguay international has scored over 20 goals in each of the past three Serie A seasons and carried Napoli to second place in 2012-13, earning them a spot in the Champions League group stage.
PSG are expected to announce the deal's completion on Tuesday, though De Laurentiis has claimed that he would have refused to sell the 26-year-old to the Ligue 1 champions if there was not already a €63 million contract clause in place.
"Without Cavani's clause, I would not have considered selling him," De Laurentiis told reporters. "It is a matter of principle. You cannot buy everything because it’s not good on an ethical level.
"The problem with these clubs is that they are owned by businesses that are run by presidents who will pay absurd figures.
"As for Cavani, each year I had to increase his price. It got so high, to a point where it was more than what Bayern Munich made for winning the Champions League.
"Then he began telling me he wanted to leave, so I told him to put forth the release clause. I’m sure Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea would never have spent €63m."
Abidal: I'm ready to captain Monaco
The Frenchman has been touted as a potential leader of the Principality-based outfit by coach Claudio Ranieri and Abidal says he is happy to take on the responsibility Eric Abidal insists he has no doubts about taking over the captaincy at Monaco.
Abidal came on as substitute and was handed the armband for Claudio Ranieri's men in the final 35 minutes of their 3-2 defeat to Fortuna Dusseldorf on Sunday.
And the experienced 33-year-old, who played at Barcelona for six seasons, says he would relish the extra responsibility of leading his newly promoted Ligue 1 side.
“During my career, I’ve never tried to be captain. But I’ve changed," he told L'Equipe.
“I have more experience and the coach wants to trust me. I speak Spanish and I want to help young people. If it means becoming captain, I will accept and take on the job without any problems.
“We have not yet spoken. I'm not against it; on the contrary, if the coach has confidence in me, I will make him feel it. This is very important; I think I can bear it. Now, only time will tell.”
Claudio Ranieri has already hinted at who may skipper the side, with Abidal being one of three candidates.
"I’m considering between last year's captain [Valere] Germain, [Jeremy] Toulalan or Abidal," former Chelsea boss Ranieri told reporters. "Abidal is coming from the Monaco academy."
Abidal spent two seasons with Monaco earlier on in his career from 2000 to 2002.
The Frenchman has been touted as a potential leader of the Principality-based outfit by coach Claudio Ranieri and Abidal says he is happy to take on the responsibility Eric Abidal insists he has no doubts about taking over the captaincy at Monaco.
Abidal came on as substitute and was handed the armband for Claudio Ranieri's men in the final 35 minutes of their 3-2 defeat to Fortuna Dusseldorf on Sunday.
And the experienced 33-year-old, who played at Barcelona for six seasons, says he would relish the extra responsibility of leading his newly promoted Ligue 1 side.
“During my career, I’ve never tried to be captain. But I’ve changed," he told L'Equipe.
“I have more experience and the coach wants to trust me. I speak Spanish and I want to help young people. If it means becoming captain, I will accept and take on the job without any problems.
“We have not yet spoken. I'm not against it; on the contrary, if the coach has confidence in me, I will make him feel it. This is very important; I think I can bear it. Now, only time will tell.”
Claudio Ranieri has already hinted at who may skipper the side, with Abidal being one of three candidates.
"I’m considering between last year's captain [Valere] Germain, [Jeremy] Toulalan or Abidal," former Chelsea boss Ranieri told reporters. "Abidal is coming from the Monaco academy."
Abidal spent two seasons with Monaco earlier on in his career from 2000 to 2002.
Feyenoord eye second loan deal for Arsenal starlet Miyaichi
The winger is yet to make a senior appearance for the Gunners but could be set for some more first-team action with the Dutch club this season Arsenal youngster Ryo Miyaichi could be set for second loan spell with Feyenoord after coach Ronald Koeman revealed he is looking to re-sign the winger.
The 20-year-old was loaned out to the Eredivisie outfit shortly after joining the Gunners in January 2011, following a successful trial at the Emirates Stadium the previous summer.
The Japan international is yet to make a senior appearance for the north London club and has also spent time at Bolton and Wigan, and Koeman has revealed discussions are underway.
"It's right we are also working on Ryo Miyaichi, but at the moment it's not clear what the situation is," Koeman told NuSport.
"After that, we can make a step. It's not that far yet."
Miyaichi’s time with the Lactics last season was brought to a premature end after just four substitute appearances as he sustained ankle ligament damage during an FA Cup tie at Everton in March.
Despite the injury, he was grateful for the opportunity to gain some Premier League experience and work under Roberto Martinez, who has since taken the reins at Everton.
"It was disappointing for me but I'm so appreciative to the Wigan supporters, the Wigan manager and the Wigan players," Miyaichi told the club’s official website in April. "It was a very good experience.
"Being there helped me to grow up. As a person, I'm growing up every day."
He is expected to be fit in time for the start of the season, when he could be linking back up with Koeman at the De Kuip Stadium.
The winger is yet to make a senior appearance for the Gunners but could be set for some more first-team action with the Dutch club this season Arsenal youngster Ryo Miyaichi could be set for second loan spell with Feyenoord after coach Ronald Koeman revealed he is looking to re-sign the winger.
The 20-year-old was loaned out to the Eredivisie outfit shortly after joining the Gunners in January 2011, following a successful trial at the Emirates Stadium the previous summer.
The Japan international is yet to make a senior appearance for the north London club and has also spent time at Bolton and Wigan, and Koeman has revealed discussions are underway.
"It's right we are also working on Ryo Miyaichi, but at the moment it's not clear what the situation is," Koeman told NuSport.
"After that, we can make a step. It's not that far yet."
Miyaichi’s time with the Lactics last season was brought to a premature end after just four substitute appearances as he sustained ankle ligament damage during an FA Cup tie at Everton in March.
Despite the injury, he was grateful for the opportunity to gain some Premier League experience and work under Roberto Martinez, who has since taken the reins at Everton.
"It was disappointing for me but I'm so appreciative to the Wigan supporters, the Wigan manager and the Wigan players," Miyaichi told the club’s official website in April. "It was a very good experience.
"Being there helped me to grow up. As a person, I'm growing up every day."
He is expected to be fit in time for the start of the season, when he could be linking back up with Koeman at the De Kuip Stadium.
Mkhitaryan: Klopp key to Dortmund move
The Armenia international says BVB's coach was pivotal in him joining the Bundesliga giants Henrikh Mkhitaryan says Jurgen Klopp played a big role in his decision to move to Borussia Dortmund.
Mkhitaryan joined BVB from Shakhtar Donetsk in a deal worth €27.5 million last week, becoming Dortmund's third signing of the summer following the capture of defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos and attacker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
The forward, who signed a four-year contract, says the charismatic Klopp was pivotal in his decision to join the Bundesliga giants.
"Klopp played a large role in my decision to come here. He is a great coach. And I know that the team is really good and operates professionally," he told Kicker.
Mkhitaryan scored 25 goals in 29 league games for Shakhtar last season helping the club clinch the Ukrainian title.
"To win something with your team is a great joy this is why you play the game," he added. "If this is not your drive, it is better to do something else.
"To win titles in football you have to give it everything that's what my experience has taught me."
The 24-year-old has adapted to life in Germany quite comfortably but says not too much should be read into his start as it is still early days.
He added: "I listen attentively to what Jurgen Klopp has to say. But still, there have only been a couple of training sessions and two games, we're talking about now. That should not be forgotten."
Mkhitaryan grabbed a goal and an assist in Dortmund's 3-1 friendly win over Basel whilst he also featured in the 4-1 victory over Besiktas.
The Armenia international says BVB's coach was pivotal in him joining the Bundesliga giants Henrikh Mkhitaryan says Jurgen Klopp played a big role in his decision to move to Borussia Dortmund.
Mkhitaryan joined BVB from Shakhtar Donetsk in a deal worth €27.5 million last week, becoming Dortmund's third signing of the summer following the capture of defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos and attacker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
The forward, who signed a four-year contract, says the charismatic Klopp was pivotal in his decision to join the Bundesliga giants.
"Klopp played a large role in my decision to come here. He is a great coach. And I know that the team is really good and operates professionally," he told Kicker.
Mkhitaryan scored 25 goals in 29 league games for Shakhtar last season helping the club clinch the Ukrainian title.
"To win something with your team is a great joy this is why you play the game," he added. "If this is not your drive, it is better to do something else.
"To win titles in football you have to give it everything that's what my experience has taught me."
The 24-year-old has adapted to life in Germany quite comfortably but says not too much should be read into his start as it is still early days.
He added: "I listen attentively to what Jurgen Klopp has to say. But still, there have only been a couple of training sessions and two games, we're talking about now. That should not be forgotten."
Mkhitaryan grabbed a goal and an assist in Dortmund's 3-1 friendly win over Basel whilst he also featured in the 4-1 victory over Besiktas.
Mario Gomez targets titles with Fiorentina
The 28-year-old says winning is his main priority at the Artemio Franchi, adding that Pep Guardiola was a big influence in his decision to join the Viola Mario Gomez hopes to bring his winning mentality to Fiorentina and help Vincenzo Montella's men lift their first title in over a decade.
The Germany international, who joined the Viola on a four-year deal, was part of Bayern’s treble-winning side last season.
And Gomez, 28, is targeting the club's first piece of silverware since lifting the Coppa Italia in 2001.
“My dream is to be able to win a title here in Italy,” he told reporters.
“Fiorentina made it clear they have ambitions in the league and want to take a step forward. They came fourth last year and want to be even more competitive in Serie A and also in Europe next season.
“I will not guarantee a certain number of goals. What matters is to score those needed for the team to get as many wins as possible.”
Gomez has spent the entirety of his career in Germany but began looking for a new club after falling out of favour at the Allianz Arena.
The striker admitted that Pep Guardiola, who recently took over at Bayern, influenced his decision to join Fiorentina.
"When it was clear that I had to leave Bayern, I had to decide between Spain and Italy," he continued.
“Nobody has convinced me to come. I only spoke with Guardiola who confirmed to me that Montella is a great person. And then I spoke with the club, who confirmed their objectives and the reasons why they wanted me here.
“Winning everything with Bayern was fantastic, but I want to experience something new. I spoke with Guardiola, who filled me in on how he was going to play. That is why I made this choice.”
The 28-year-old says winning is his main priority at the Artemio Franchi, adding that Pep Guardiola was a big influence in his decision to join the Viola Mario Gomez hopes to bring his winning mentality to Fiorentina and help Vincenzo Montella's men lift their first title in over a decade.
The Germany international, who joined the Viola on a four-year deal, was part of Bayern’s treble-winning side last season.
And Gomez, 28, is targeting the club's first piece of silverware since lifting the Coppa Italia in 2001.
“My dream is to be able to win a title here in Italy,” he told reporters.
“Fiorentina made it clear they have ambitions in the league and want to take a step forward. They came fourth last year and want to be even more competitive in Serie A and also in Europe next season.
“I will not guarantee a certain number of goals. What matters is to score those needed for the team to get as many wins as possible.”
Gomez has spent the entirety of his career in Germany but began looking for a new club after falling out of favour at the Allianz Arena.
The striker admitted that Pep Guardiola, who recently took over at Bayern, influenced his decision to join Fiorentina.
"When it was clear that I had to leave Bayern, I had to decide between Spain and Italy," he continued.
“Nobody has convinced me to come. I only spoke with Guardiola who confirmed to me that Montella is a great person. And then I spoke with the club, who confirmed their objectives and the reasons why they wanted me here.
“Winning everything with Bayern was fantastic, but I want to experience something new. I spoke with Guardiola, who filled me in on how he was going to play. That is why I made this choice.”
Liverpool confirm they rejected Arsenal offer for Suarez
The Reds have revealed an official bid from Arsene Wenger's side was dismissed, with the Uruguayan yet to confirm to the club he is looking for an exit from Anfield
Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre has confirmed the club rejected an offer from Arsenal for Luis Suarez and remain determined to keep hold of the Uruguay international.
Goal exclusively revealed on July 10 that the Gunners were preparing to a £35 million bid for the 26-year-old after contacting the Anfield club regarding his availability.
Arsene Wenger recently refused to answer questions on Arsenal's interest in Suarez but Ayre has now revealed that Liverpool have rejected a bid from the Gunners, with the striker yet to confirm his desire to leave.
"We had an offer which is fairly public from Arsenal," Ayre told Bloomberg. "We said no to that offer, and as far as we’re concerned he turns up for training when he's due back. And we'll move forward on that basis.
"I've heard him say it would great to have an opportunity to play for Arsenal and likewise Real Madrid. But he certainly hasn't called me up and said he wants to leave.
"We get offers for lots of our players at different times. Unless we get to a situation where that player absolutely doesn't want to be here and we don’t want him to be here then that's a different kettle of fish.
"Right now we'd love to see Luis put on a Liverpool shirt for this season and beyond and we hope that once he gets back things will settle down."
Ayre also insisted that Liverpool are determined to keep hold of the former Ajax man, who scored 30 goals last season, and will be able to meet his ambitions of playing Champions League football in the future.
"This is an ambitious young player, he’s talked in the media about wanting to play in the Champions League and all these things," Ayre added. "It’s our job to convince Luis that this is the right place to achieve those things."
"I don’t think anyone will be against him at this point. He only needs to do what he did last season and everyone will feel he’s in the right place and he should carry on getting the support that he deserves and gets from Liverpool.
"We’d love to see Luis put on a Liverpool shirt for this season and beyond and we hope that once he gets back things will settle down."
The Reds have revealed an official bid from Arsene Wenger's side was dismissed, with the Uruguayan yet to confirm to the club he is looking for an exit from Anfield
Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre has confirmed the club rejected an offer from Arsenal for Luis Suarez and remain determined to keep hold of the Uruguay international.
Goal exclusively revealed on July 10 that the Gunners were preparing to a £35 million bid for the 26-year-old after contacting the Anfield club regarding his availability.
Arsene Wenger recently refused to answer questions on Arsenal's interest in Suarez but Ayre has now revealed that Liverpool have rejected a bid from the Gunners, with the striker yet to confirm his desire to leave.
"We had an offer which is fairly public from Arsenal," Ayre told Bloomberg. "We said no to that offer, and as far as we’re concerned he turns up for training when he's due back. And we'll move forward on that basis.
"I've heard him say it would great to have an opportunity to play for Arsenal and likewise Real Madrid. But he certainly hasn't called me up and said he wants to leave.
"We get offers for lots of our players at different times. Unless we get to a situation where that player absolutely doesn't want to be here and we don’t want him to be here then that's a different kettle of fish.
"Right now we'd love to see Luis put on a Liverpool shirt for this season and beyond and we hope that once he gets back things will settle down."
Ayre also insisted that Liverpool are determined to keep hold of the former Ajax man, who scored 30 goals last season, and will be able to meet his ambitions of playing Champions League football in the future.
"This is an ambitious young player, he’s talked in the media about wanting to play in the Champions League and all these things," Ayre added. "It’s our job to convince Luis that this is the right place to achieve those things."
"I don’t think anyone will be against him at this point. He only needs to do what he did last season and everyone will feel he’s in the right place and he should carry on getting the support that he deserves and gets from Liverpool.
"We’d love to see Luis put on a Liverpool shirt for this season and beyond and we hope that once he gets back things will settle down."
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