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..::Football II::..
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Messi: Xavi and Iniesta deserve Ballon d'Or
Lionel Messi is hopeful that a Barcelona player will win the 2012 Ballon d'Or, and believes both Andres Iniesta and Xavi deserve the prestigious individual award.
The Argentine attacker netted an impressive 73 goals in all competitions in 2011-12, but he feels his team-mates are more deserving to win it because of their exploits at Euro 2012.
"There's still a long way to go before we know the winner of the Ballon d'Or. We don't even know the nominees yet. Those who are in charge of it will have to decide who wins it," Messi stated at a press conference.
"I would like it if the Ballon d'Or remains in the Barca dressing-room. Hopefully, Iniesta or Xavi can win the award. They would deserve it for everything they've done in recent years and at Euro 2012.
"The more Barcelona players are nominated for the Ballon d'Or, the better it is for the club."
Messi won the last three editions of the Ballon d'Or. Iniesta came in second in 2010, while Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo finished as runnerup in 2011.
Lionel Messi is hopeful that a Barcelona player will win the 2012 Ballon d'Or, and believes both Andres Iniesta and Xavi deserve the prestigious individual award.
The Argentine attacker netted an impressive 73 goals in all competitions in 2011-12, but he feels his team-mates are more deserving to win it because of their exploits at Euro 2012.
"There's still a long way to go before we know the winner of the Ballon d'Or. We don't even know the nominees yet. Those who are in charge of it will have to decide who wins it," Messi stated at a press conference.
"I would like it if the Ballon d'Or remains in the Barca dressing-room. Hopefully, Iniesta or Xavi can win the award. They would deserve it for everything they've done in recent years and at Euro 2012.
"The more Barcelona players are nominated for the Ballon d'Or, the better it is for the club."
Messi won the last three editions of the Ballon d'Or. Iniesta came in second in 2010, while Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo finished as runnerup in 2011.
Sammer: Robben and Ribery can't do it on their own
Bayern Munich sporting director Matthias Sammer has made it clear that Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery will have to understand that they need the support of their teammates in order to shine.
The players have both been criticized for their individualistic style of play, and although the 44-year-old has admitted that every team needs star players, he has insisted that they cannot do it all on their own.
"What you need in a team are leaders - ideally one leader - team players and individuals," Sammer was quoted as saying on the club's official website. "We need individuals such as Robben and Ribery. However, these players must understand they'll never make it on their own.
"You need team players holding the whole thing together. Players need to put themselves forward and accept responsibility."
The Bayern director then went on to discuss Robben's situation after he was whistled by his own fans last season, and stressed they will do their utmost to support the Dutchman.
"I have a very, very good impression of him," he said. "He’s very alert, focused, and dynamic. Naturally, we've talked. I signaled to him that in a situation such as what happened in the last match in Munich, no Bayern Munich player is on his own, and that we have to protect him even more.
"And I've also told him I'm expecting a huge amount of him this season."
Robben netted a hat trick in Bayern's 11-0 win over a Trentino Regional XI on Tuesday.
Bayern Munich sporting director Matthias Sammer has made it clear that Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery will have to understand that they need the support of their teammates in order to shine.
The players have both been criticized for their individualistic style of play, and although the 44-year-old has admitted that every team needs star players, he has insisted that they cannot do it all on their own.
"What you need in a team are leaders - ideally one leader - team players and individuals," Sammer was quoted as saying on the club's official website. "We need individuals such as Robben and Ribery. However, these players must understand they'll never make it on their own.
"You need team players holding the whole thing together. Players need to put themselves forward and accept responsibility."
The Bayern director then went on to discuss Robben's situation after he was whistled by his own fans last season, and stressed they will do their utmost to support the Dutchman.
"I have a very, very good impression of him," he said. "He’s very alert, focused, and dynamic. Naturally, we've talked. I signaled to him that in a situation such as what happened in the last match in Munich, no Bayern Munich player is on his own, and that we have to protect him even more.
"And I've also told him I'm expecting a huge amount of him this season."
Robben netted a hat trick in Bayern's 11-0 win over a Trentino Regional XI on Tuesday.
Luuk de Jong completes Gladbach move
Borussia Monchengladbach has confirmed the transfer of Luuk de Jong from Twente for a fee believed to be in the region of 15 million euros. The striker has signed a contract until June 2017 with his new club.
Die Fohlen have been in the market for attacking reinforcements since the departure of Marco Reus to Borussia Dortmund, and coach Lucien Favre has now got the new striker he had set his sights on.
"We are very pleased that it's now a done deal after all, and that Luuk will be able to travel to our training camp in Tegernsee on Friday," Gladbach sporting director Max Eberl commented.
"In Luuk, we have secured the services of a very talented striker who has already plenty of international experience under his belt with Twente and the Dutch national side, despite his tender age of 21."
De Jong is a product of the De Graafschap youth academy, and joined Twente in the summer of 2009. He had since developed into a key player at the Eredivisie outfit, netting 39 goals in 75 league appearances.
The Netherlands international had also attracted the interest of Newcastle United, but the Premier League side pulled out of the race for De Jong's signature due to Twente's hefty asking price for the striker.
Borussia Monchengladbach has confirmed the transfer of Luuk de Jong from Twente for a fee believed to be in the region of 15 million euros. The striker has signed a contract until June 2017 with his new club.
Die Fohlen have been in the market for attacking reinforcements since the departure of Marco Reus to Borussia Dortmund, and coach Lucien Favre has now got the new striker he had set his sights on.
"We are very pleased that it's now a done deal after all, and that Luuk will be able to travel to our training camp in Tegernsee on Friday," Gladbach sporting director Max Eberl commented.
"In Luuk, we have secured the services of a very talented striker who has already plenty of international experience under his belt with Twente and the Dutch national side, despite his tender age of 21."
De Jong is a product of the De Graafschap youth academy, and joined Twente in the summer of 2009. He had since developed into a key player at the Eredivisie outfit, netting 39 goals in 75 league appearances.
The Netherlands international had also attracted the interest of Newcastle United, but the Premier League side pulled out of the race for De Jong's signature due to Twente's hefty asking price for the striker.
Ferdinand impressed with confidence of new signing Powell
Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand believes that new signing Nick Powell has a bright future with the club.
"He's a fine prospect. I've seen a few clips of him and watched a few games back home," Ferdinand told The Sun.
"He has an unpredictable style and can play off-the-cuff. He can pull things out the hat that you don't expect."
Ferdinand feels that Powell has settled in well with the squad and has the confidence to succeed at Old Trafford.
While the England international has not seen much of the 18-year-old in training, he will get a better look of the youngster as he is set for his first-team debut against AmaZulu in Durban on Wednesday.
The 30-year-old defender believes that he can add a new dimension to the Red Devils attack.
"We've not really seen as much as we would have liked in training as we're just doing a lot of small-sided work at the moment, but he has a great first touch and he's not afraid."
Sir Alex Ferguson has stated that he plans to develop the former Crewe player into a centre midfielder.
Ferdinand believes that Powell has made a great start to his United career.
"He seems a confident lad and he's integrated straight into the squad.
"For a young lad, to come into an environment like Manchester United from a lower league club, you have to say he walked in with his shoulders back as if he's meant to be here.
“And that's a great start to his career here.”
Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand believes that new signing Nick Powell has a bright future with the club.
"He's a fine prospect. I've seen a few clips of him and watched a few games back home," Ferdinand told The Sun.
"He has an unpredictable style and can play off-the-cuff. He can pull things out the hat that you don't expect."
Ferdinand feels that Powell has settled in well with the squad and has the confidence to succeed at Old Trafford.
While the England international has not seen much of the 18-year-old in training, he will get a better look of the youngster as he is set for his first-team debut against AmaZulu in Durban on Wednesday.
The 30-year-old defender believes that he can add a new dimension to the Red Devils attack.
"We've not really seen as much as we would have liked in training as we're just doing a lot of small-sided work at the moment, but he has a great first touch and he's not afraid."
Sir Alex Ferguson has stated that he plans to develop the former Crewe player into a centre midfielder.
Ferdinand believes that Powell has made a great start to his United career.
"He seems a confident lad and he's integrated straight into the squad.
"For a young lad, to come into an environment like Manchester United from a lower league club, you have to say he walked in with his shoulders back as if he's meant to be here.
“And that's a great start to his career here.”
Galatasaray confirms interest in Dimitar Berbatov
Galatasaray vice-president Refik Arkan has confirmed that his side is interested in signing Dimitar Berbatov from Manchester United.
The 31-year-old made just five Premier League starts appearances for the Red Devils last season as Sir Alex Ferguson chose to pair Wayne Rooney with either Danny Welbeck of Javier Hernandez.
Berbatov recently posted on his Facebook page that he would leave the club for the greater good, and the Istanbul giants are keen to snap up the former Tottenham man.
"We have had discussions with Berbatov's management," Arkan told Radyspor.
"We want to have a world-class striker. Our president also wants this, but the final decision rests with the coach [Fatih Terim]. Berbatov is one of the possibilities."
Akran went on to say that the club is hoping to thrash out a deal for Felipe Melo, who spent last season on loan with Galatasaray, but insisted it is not to prepared to meet Juventus' asking price for the Brazilian.
"If Melo wants to play for us, he must talk to Juventus and ask them to lower their asking price. If we cannot close the Melo deal, we have alternatives."
On Galatasaray's aspirations for the season, he said: "We have big targets, and to achieve these, you have to invest.
"We want to be successful in Europe, therefore we have to have good players in our squad. We are doing what is necessary to get big success."
Galatasaray vice-president Refik Arkan has confirmed that his side is interested in signing Dimitar Berbatov from Manchester United.
The 31-year-old made just five Premier League starts appearances for the Red Devils last season as Sir Alex Ferguson chose to pair Wayne Rooney with either Danny Welbeck of Javier Hernandez.
Berbatov recently posted on his Facebook page that he would leave the club for the greater good, and the Istanbul giants are keen to snap up the former Tottenham man.
"We have had discussions with Berbatov's management," Arkan told Radyspor.
"We want to have a world-class striker. Our president also wants this, but the final decision rests with the coach [Fatih Terim]. Berbatov is one of the possibilities."
Akran went on to say that the club is hoping to thrash out a deal for Felipe Melo, who spent last season on loan with Galatasaray, but insisted it is not to prepared to meet Juventus' asking price for the Brazilian.
"If Melo wants to play for us, he must talk to Juventus and ask them to lower their asking price. If we cannot close the Melo deal, we have alternatives."
On Galatasaray's aspirations for the season, he said: "We have big targets, and to achieve these, you have to invest.
"We want to be successful in Europe, therefore we have to have good players in our squad. We are doing what is necessary to get big success."
Chicharito to start first preseason game, Sir Alex Ferguson reveals
Javier Hernandez will endure his first complete preseason with Manchester United, after injuries and national team duty forced him to arrive late during his first two seasons with the Premier League club.
With the emergence of Danny Welbeck, the Mexican striker knows he has to impress early and often to be considered, with the challenge exciting him as opposed to worrying him as the new season starts to unfold.
"I know I need to keep learning," Hernandez told the team's official website. "You never stop learning and I want to continue to improve and work hard in order to repay the people that put their trust in me," the former Chivas striker said.
With Shinji Kagawa joining the fray as yet another offensive signing for the Red Devils, Hernandez offered a piece of advice to his new teammate. " It’s important that we keep that winning mentality going that we have United and the new players will learn from [guys like Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes]."
Meanwhile, Sir Alex Ferguson revealed that Chicharito and Kagawa will partner up as starters for United's first preseason match in Durban.
"The priority is to get the experienced players fit but young players will play in each game. It's likely that Kagawa will start with Chicharito," said Ferguson.
Manchester United will take on AmaZulu F.C. on Wednesday, kicking off the first leg of its preseason tour in South Africa.
Javier Hernandez will endure his first complete preseason with Manchester United, after injuries and national team duty forced him to arrive late during his first two seasons with the Premier League club.
With the emergence of Danny Welbeck, the Mexican striker knows he has to impress early and often to be considered, with the challenge exciting him as opposed to worrying him as the new season starts to unfold.
"I know I need to keep learning," Hernandez told the team's official website. "You never stop learning and I want to continue to improve and work hard in order to repay the people that put their trust in me," the former Chivas striker said.
With Shinji Kagawa joining the fray as yet another offensive signing for the Red Devils, Hernandez offered a piece of advice to his new teammate. " It’s important that we keep that winning mentality going that we have United and the new players will learn from [guys like Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes]."
Meanwhile, Sir Alex Ferguson revealed that Chicharito and Kagawa will partner up as starters for United's first preseason match in Durban.
"The priority is to get the experienced players fit but young players will play in each game. It's likely that Kagawa will start with Chicharito," said Ferguson.
Manchester United will take on AmaZulu F.C. on Wednesday, kicking off the first leg of its preseason tour in South Africa.
Cristiano Ronaldo: Spanish league is the hardest in the world
Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has labelled La Liga as the "hardest" domestic competition in the world, and admitted that he is still basking in the glory of finishing on top of the pile last season.
The Portugal international played a key role in his club's Primera Division title success, netting 46 times in total, and freely admits that ending Barcelona's run of three successive titles represents the highlight of his Blancos career to date."I think the best moment so far was winning La Liga," Ronaldo mused during an interview on Thai television. "Because I think the Spanish league is the hardest in the world. It has great teams like Barcelona and to finish nine points ahead of them...that says a lot."
Ronaldo, who is currently holidaying in Thailand with his girlfriend Irina Shayk, was then quizzed again about Portugal's penalty shoot-out defeat by Spain in the semi-finals of Euro 2012.
The former Manchester United man was entrusted with the responsibility of the Seleccao's fifth spot-kick but he never get to take his turn, with La Roja clinching a 4-2 victory thanks to Cesc Fabregas.
There was great debate over whether Ronaldo should have been used further up the order by Portugal boss Paulo Bento, but he still feels that it was much ado about nothing.
"They are just decisions," he mused. "I remember when I played the [Champions League] semi-final against Bayern Munich, I went first and missed the penalty. So, anything can happen; penalties are a lottery."
Ronaldo is currently on an extended break after his exploits in Poland and Ukraine and is not expected to link up with Madrid until they embark on their preseason tour of the United States later in July.
Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has labelled La Liga as the "hardest" domestic competition in the world, and admitted that he is still basking in the glory of finishing on top of the pile last season.
The Portugal international played a key role in his club's Primera Division title success, netting 46 times in total, and freely admits that ending Barcelona's run of three successive titles represents the highlight of his Blancos career to date."I think the best moment so far was winning La Liga," Ronaldo mused during an interview on Thai television. "Because I think the Spanish league is the hardest in the world. It has great teams like Barcelona and to finish nine points ahead of them...that says a lot."
Ronaldo, who is currently holidaying in Thailand with his girlfriend Irina Shayk, was then quizzed again about Portugal's penalty shoot-out defeat by Spain in the semi-finals of Euro 2012.
The former Manchester United man was entrusted with the responsibility of the Seleccao's fifth spot-kick but he never get to take his turn, with La Roja clinching a 4-2 victory thanks to Cesc Fabregas.
There was great debate over whether Ronaldo should have been used further up the order by Portugal boss Paulo Bento, but he still feels that it was much ado about nothing.
"They are just decisions," he mused. "I remember when I played the [Champions League] semi-final against Bayern Munich, I went first and missed the penalty. So, anything can happen; penalties are a lottery."
Ronaldo is currently on an extended break after his exploits in Poland and Ukraine and is not expected to link up with Madrid until they embark on their preseason tour of the United States later in July.
Galliani: AC Milan will replace Ibrahimovic with a champion
AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani has promised that the club will replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic with "a champion", while at the same time revealing that Robinho will remain at San Siro.
Rossoneri fans have been rocked by the news that their most prolific striker is on the verge of joining Paris Saint-Germain, just days after their defensive linchpin Thiago Silva also sealed a move to the Parc des Princes.
Galliani, though, is promising to find a worthy replacement for the Swedish striker before the close of the summer transfer window.
"A champion will arrive in attack," he told Sky Sport24. "There is time until August 31."
It had been speculated that Robinho might also be allowed to leave, with Santos keen to bring the Brazil international back to the Vila Belmiro. However, Galliani insisted that the attacker is going nowhere.
"I told the directors of Santos that I am not selling him and that he will remain at Milan," the Rossoneri chief explained.
Galliani also ruled out the possibility of a late attempt to hijack Roma's bid to bring Mattia Destro to the Stadio Olimpico, even though the Monza native admitted to having met with Genoa president Enrico Preziosi on Tuesday.
However, Galliani explained that while he gave Walter Sabatini the fright of his life by answering Preziosi's phone during the sit-down, he quickly put the Giallorossi director at ease.
"When he heard who responded, he was terrified," Galliani laughed. "But then I told him that as far as we're concerned, there are no problems with Destro [going] to Roma."
Goal.com has already revealed that Milan are considering replacing Ibrahimovic with Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko.
AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani has promised that the club will replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic with "a champion", while at the same time revealing that Robinho will remain at San Siro.
Rossoneri fans have been rocked by the news that their most prolific striker is on the verge of joining Paris Saint-Germain, just days after their defensive linchpin Thiago Silva also sealed a move to the Parc des Princes.
Galliani, though, is promising to find a worthy replacement for the Swedish striker before the close of the summer transfer window.
"A champion will arrive in attack," he told Sky Sport24. "There is time until August 31."
It had been speculated that Robinho might also be allowed to leave, with Santos keen to bring the Brazil international back to the Vila Belmiro. However, Galliani insisted that the attacker is going nowhere.
"I told the directors of Santos that I am not selling him and that he will remain at Milan," the Rossoneri chief explained.
Galliani also ruled out the possibility of a late attempt to hijack Roma's bid to bring Mattia Destro to the Stadio Olimpico, even though the Monza native admitted to having met with Genoa president Enrico Preziosi on Tuesday.
However, Galliani explained that while he gave Walter Sabatini the fright of his life by answering Preziosi's phone during the sit-down, he quickly put the Giallorossi director at ease.
"When he heard who responded, he was terrified," Galliani laughed. "But then I told him that as far as we're concerned, there are no problems with Destro [going] to Roma."
Goal.com has already revealed that Milan are considering replacing Ibrahimovic with Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko.
Chelsea boss Di Matteo coy on Oscar link as transfer speculation heightens
Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo remained coy on continued speculation that the club is close to sealing a deal for Internacional playmaker Oscar.
The Premier League club are understood to have had a 25 million euro offer already rejected by the Brazilian club, prompting president Giovanni Luigi to admit that the youngster could be sold if a further bid was suitable.
And, despite reports in Brazil suggesting that the 20-year-old was temporarily released from his Olympic duties in order to complete a medical with the Blues ahead of a 32m euro move, Di Matteo was reluctant to reveal too much on the current situation.
"I can tell you that he's not a Chelsea player so it's difficult for me to talk about a player that doesn't belong to us," the Italian told reporters. "I know there has been speculation that we are interested in this player and in due course, if there is anything to announce, we will do. All I would say is that he is a very young, talented midfield player."
Di Matteo, who was speaking in America ahead of the club's preseason friendly against the Seattle Sounders, revealed that winger Florent Malouda had joined up with the squad despite much speculation linking the winger with an imminent departure.Santos were thought to be close to sealing the France international's signature, but wage demands look to be halting progress.
Di Matteo added: "Players are now slowly returning, Malouda was back today and we expect the others to come when we are on the east coast."I still haven't had a chance to speak to Florent, so I need to speak to him first and see what his intentions are, then we will see what the best interests are for him and the club.
"At the moment I am very happy with the squad. We have a good squad, a very good team and have new players with us already. Our job is to try to integrate them into a team that was very successful last season."
Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo remained coy on continued speculation that the club is close to sealing a deal for Internacional playmaker Oscar.
The Premier League club are understood to have had a 25 million euro offer already rejected by the Brazilian club, prompting president Giovanni Luigi to admit that the youngster could be sold if a further bid was suitable.
And, despite reports in Brazil suggesting that the 20-year-old was temporarily released from his Olympic duties in order to complete a medical with the Blues ahead of a 32m euro move, Di Matteo was reluctant to reveal too much on the current situation.
"I can tell you that he's not a Chelsea player so it's difficult for me to talk about a player that doesn't belong to us," the Italian told reporters. "I know there has been speculation that we are interested in this player and in due course, if there is anything to announce, we will do. All I would say is that he is a very young, talented midfield player."
Di Matteo, who was speaking in America ahead of the club's preseason friendly against the Seattle Sounders, revealed that winger Florent Malouda had joined up with the squad despite much speculation linking the winger with an imminent departure.Santos were thought to be close to sealing the France international's signature, but wage demands look to be halting progress.
Di Matteo added: "Players are now slowly returning, Malouda was back today and we expect the others to come when we are on the east coast."I still haven't had a chance to speak to Florent, so I need to speak to him first and see what his intentions are, then we will see what the best interests are for him and the club.
"At the moment I am very happy with the squad. We have a good squad, a very good team and have new players with us already. Our job is to try to integrate them into a team that was very successful last season."
Lyon president '99 percent' sure Lloris will stay
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has given Hugo Lloris an extra week to find a new club for himself, but he is now "99 percent" certain that the goalkeeper will remain at the Stade de Gerland.
As Goal.com earlier revealed, Tottenham Hotspur is particularly keen on the France international, while north London rival Arsenal is also believed to be interested.
However, no club has yet to meet Lyon's 20-million euro valuation, and while Aulas remains open to letting Lloris leave, he is now supremely confident that the shot-stopper is going nowhere.
"I have given Hugo one more week to reach an agreement," he told OLTV, the club's official channel. "But I think it's 99 per cent that he will stay with Olympique Lyonnais and I'm happy."
The 25-year-old Lloris, who has been capped 37 times by Les Bleus, joined Lyon from Nice in 2008 for a reported 8.5m euros.
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has given Hugo Lloris an extra week to find a new club for himself, but he is now "99 percent" certain that the goalkeeper will remain at the Stade de Gerland.
As Goal.com earlier revealed, Tottenham Hotspur is particularly keen on the France international, while north London rival Arsenal is also believed to be interested.
However, no club has yet to meet Lyon's 20-million euro valuation, and while Aulas remains open to letting Lloris leave, he is now supremely confident that the shot-stopper is going nowhere.
"I have given Hugo one more week to reach an agreement," he told OLTV, the club's official channel. "But I think it's 99 per cent that he will stay with Olympique Lyonnais and I'm happy."
The 25-year-old Lloris, who has been capped 37 times by Les Bleus, joined Lyon from Nice in 2008 for a reported 8.5m euros.
Robinho is happy at AC Milan
AC Milan forward Robinho is not interested in leaving the Italian club this summer, his agent Marisa Alija has said.
"There have not been any negotiations with Santos or Atletico," she told Superesportes. "That possibility does not exist."
The 28-year-old has strongly been linked with a new challenge in recent weeks and Brazilian sources have suggested that Santos and Atletico Mineiro are both hot on the trail of the player.
However, Robinho's representative insisted that she has not held talks with either side.
"He is fine at Milan and very happy at the club," Alija said.
With the Brazilian transfer window slamming shut on July 20, Alija admitted that there may not even be time to thrash out a deal for Robinho.
"Even if there was an offer, Atletico would have already had to table it to have enough time to sign him," she explained.
"From what I have read, he has friends at Atletico who would facilitate his transfer, but there is no such thing. Robinho must also be consulted, he needs to have the final word."
AC Milan forward Robinho is not interested in leaving the Italian club this summer, his agent Marisa Alija has said.
"There have not been any negotiations with Santos or Atletico," she told Superesportes. "That possibility does not exist."
The 28-year-old has strongly been linked with a new challenge in recent weeks and Brazilian sources have suggested that Santos and Atletico Mineiro are both hot on the trail of the player.
However, Robinho's representative insisted that she has not held talks with either side.
"He is fine at Milan and very happy at the club," Alija said.
With the Brazilian transfer window slamming shut on July 20, Alija admitted that there may not even be time to thrash out a deal for Robinho.
"Even if there was an offer, Atletico would have already had to table it to have enough time to sign him," she explained.
"From what I have read, he has friends at Atletico who would facilitate his transfer, but there is no such thing. Robinho must also be consulted, he needs to have the final word."
Chelsea's £26m bid rejected
Chelsea's £26m bid rejected
Chelsea have seen a £26 million offer for playmaker Willian turned down, according to Shakhtar Donetsk manager Mircea Lucescu.
Willian has been linked with last season's Champions League winners for the past 12 months, with Chelsea having a £16.7 million bid rejected in January. Lucescu maintains the attacking midfielder can leave for Stamford Bridge, but only for the right price.
"I told Willian he can leave, but only if the right offer is made," Lucescu told Romanian TV station Dolce Sport. "He's a great player. Willian was the biggest investment Shakhtar have made in a young player, we have to respect that. He played only seven or eight games in Brazil."
Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo has already spent £32 million on Belgian playmaker Eden Hazard from Lille. But Lucescu questioned the Premier League club's valuation of players after Shakhtar knocked back an offer of €34 million (£26 million) for Willian."They paid a lot of money for Hazard but are not willing to pay for Willian, even though he's better in my opinion.
"Chelsea want to buy Brazilian but made an offer for the eastern European market. They offered €34 million but we don't think that's his current value," Lucescu said.
Chelsea's £26m bid rejected
Chelsea have seen a £26 million offer for playmaker Willian turned down, according to Shakhtar Donetsk manager Mircea Lucescu.
Willian has been linked with last season's Champions League winners for the past 12 months, with Chelsea having a £16.7 million bid rejected in January. Lucescu maintains the attacking midfielder can leave for Stamford Bridge, but only for the right price.
"I told Willian he can leave, but only if the right offer is made," Lucescu told Romanian TV station Dolce Sport. "He's a great player. Willian was the biggest investment Shakhtar have made in a young player, we have to respect that. He played only seven or eight games in Brazil."
Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo has already spent £32 million on Belgian playmaker Eden Hazard from Lille. But Lucescu questioned the Premier League club's valuation of players after Shakhtar knocked back an offer of €34 million (£26 million) for Willian."They paid a lot of money for Hazard but are not willing to pay for Willian, even though he's better in my opinion.
"Chelsea want to buy Brazilian but made an offer for the eastern European market. They offered €34 million but we don't think that's his current value," Lucescu said.
Fulham: No Dempsey sale
Fulham: No Dempsey sale
Fulham have denied receiving any offers for Clint Dempsey after a website report appeared to claim that the United States international had moved to Liverpool.
In an article linked from Liverpool owner Fenway Sports Group's website and published on NESN.com, it was reported that the Reds had "added Clint Dempsey to a team that game (sic) within a game of winning the FA Cup" and he would join the club on their North American tour. Any mention of Dempsey on the webpage was later removed.
Summer speculation has linked attacking midfielder Dempsey with a move to Anfield, but Fulham said they would discourage the Merseysiders - or any other club - from making an approach to sign the 29-year-old.
Anfield manager Brendan Rodgers is known to be keen to freshen up his attacking options, and some reports had suggested that £10 million-rated Dempsey could be used as part of a deal to take striker Andy Carroll, who appears increasingly likely to leave Liverpool, to Craven Cottage.
But Fulham stressed that the NESN.com report was without foundation, and a spokesman said: "We have received no offers from any club for Clint Dempsey. We would discourage any club from making a bid for him.''Some reports indicated that Fulham and Liverpool had held informal talks about a potential transfer earlier in the summer, but that those discussions had not been followed up by any official move.
Dempsey joined the Londoners from New England Revolution in 2007 and established himself as a key part of the Fulham side. He won the club's Player of the Year award last season after scoring 23 goals in all competitions.
Fulham: No Dempsey sale
Fulham have denied receiving any offers for Clint Dempsey after a website report appeared to claim that the United States international had moved to Liverpool.
In an article linked from Liverpool owner Fenway Sports Group's website and published on NESN.com, it was reported that the Reds had "added Clint Dempsey to a team that game (sic) within a game of winning the FA Cup" and he would join the club on their North American tour. Any mention of Dempsey on the webpage was later removed.
Summer speculation has linked attacking midfielder Dempsey with a move to Anfield, but Fulham said they would discourage the Merseysiders - or any other club - from making an approach to sign the 29-year-old.
Anfield manager Brendan Rodgers is known to be keen to freshen up his attacking options, and some reports had suggested that £10 million-rated Dempsey could be used as part of a deal to take striker Andy Carroll, who appears increasingly likely to leave Liverpool, to Craven Cottage.
But Fulham stressed that the NESN.com report was without foundation, and a spokesman said: "We have received no offers from any club for Clint Dempsey. We would discourage any club from making a bid for him.''Some reports indicated that Fulham and Liverpool had held informal talks about a potential transfer earlier in the summer, but that those discussions had not been followed up by any official move.
Dempsey joined the Londoners from New England Revolution in 2007 and established himself as a key part of the Fulham side. He won the club's Player of the Year award last season after scoring 23 goals in all competitions.
Official: Ibrahimovic joins PSG
The Sweden international has signed a three-year contract which will keep him at the Parc des Princes until 2015, with the French capital outfit spending a reported €23 million fee for the striker.
Ibrahimovic has no doubt that he has taken a step forward in his career and stressed that he is not only thinking about the money, amid reports that he will earn €13m per year at the club.
"I wanted to thank PSG and [sporting director] Leonardo for their work, they made the impossible possible," he told reporters at a press conference.
"This is another step in my career, another dream that has come true. This has been a massive thing in the media, people chasing me in my home. This is not normal, I will chase them back.
"This is a very interesting project, a project I wanted to be a part of, and I had no doubts in my mind when they contacted my agent.
"I want to make history with this club. I have come here to win, not for anything else."
When his current deal with PSG expires, Ibrahimovic will be almost 34 years old, and the Swedish striker did not rule out the possibility of retiring at the French club.
"As it looks today, it will be my final contract," he added. "Today I am here and I hope to be here for all the time that I have signed for.
"All I am thinking about is winning and how that will happen.
"I consider PSG to be at the same level as the other clubs I have played for. With the likes of [Marco] Verratti, we have the future as well.
"I do not know a lot about Ligue 1 and its players. Whoever we play against, we will play to win. For sure, I will learn who they are, and they know who I am."
Ibrahimovic joins PSG after two successful seasons at Milan in which he scored 56 goals in all competitions, and the 30-year-old thanked the Italian club for allowing him to kick-start his career following a disappointing spell at Barcelona.
"The only thing I have to say about Milan is that I was happy there, they put a smile on my face again," the striker noted.
"They will always remain in my heart because they helped me and my family.
"They will continue to succeed, they did it with me, and they will do it without me. I have nothing negative to say about Milan because that is not like me.
"I left Italy because the future is here. What happens in Italy is not my concern. Without me and Thiago Silva, Serie A will be poorer."
Ibrahimovic, who also had spells at Ajax, Juventus and Inter, has become the fourth summer signing for the Ligue 1 runners-up, following the transfers of Ezequiel Lavezzi, Thiago Silva and Verratti.
"With Zlatan, we are done in the transfer market this year," Leonardo said. "He is the perfect recruitment."
The Sweden international has signed a three-year contract which will keep him at the Parc des Princes until 2015, with the French capital outfit spending a reported €23 million fee for the striker.
Ibrahimovic has no doubt that he has taken a step forward in his career and stressed that he is not only thinking about the money, amid reports that he will earn €13m per year at the club.
"I wanted to thank PSG and [sporting director] Leonardo for their work, they made the impossible possible," he told reporters at a press conference.
"This is another step in my career, another dream that has come true. This has been a massive thing in the media, people chasing me in my home. This is not normal, I will chase them back.
"This is a very interesting project, a project I wanted to be a part of, and I had no doubts in my mind when they contacted my agent.
"I want to make history with this club. I have come here to win, not for anything else."
When his current deal with PSG expires, Ibrahimovic will be almost 34 years old, and the Swedish striker did not rule out the possibility of retiring at the French club.
"As it looks today, it will be my final contract," he added. "Today I am here and I hope to be here for all the time that I have signed for.
"All I am thinking about is winning and how that will happen.
"I consider PSG to be at the same level as the other clubs I have played for. With the likes of [Marco] Verratti, we have the future as well.
"I do not know a lot about Ligue 1 and its players. Whoever we play against, we will play to win. For sure, I will learn who they are, and they know who I am."
Ibrahimovic joins PSG after two successful seasons at Milan in which he scored 56 goals in all competitions, and the 30-year-old thanked the Italian club for allowing him to kick-start his career following a disappointing spell at Barcelona.
"The only thing I have to say about Milan is that I was happy there, they put a smile on my face again," the striker noted.
"They will always remain in my heart because they helped me and my family.
"They will continue to succeed, they did it with me, and they will do it without me. I have nothing negative to say about Milan because that is not like me.
"I left Italy because the future is here. What happens in Italy is not my concern. Without me and Thiago Silva, Serie A will be poorer."
Ibrahimovic, who also had spells at Ajax, Juventus and Inter, has become the fourth summer signing for the Ligue 1 runners-up, following the transfers of Ezequiel Lavezzi, Thiago Silva and Verratti.
"With Zlatan, we are done in the transfer market this year," Leonardo said. "He is the perfect recruitment."
Seattle Sounders 2-4 Chelsea: Hazard and Marin both score debut goals
Eden Hazard and Marco Marin each notched on his debut as Chelsea ran out 4-2 winner over Seattle Sounders in the opening game of the World Football Challenge preseason tournament.
A first half double from Lukaku sandwiched the introductory goals as the English outfit lost and then restored a two-goal advantage before the half time whistle.
In his first match as permanent manager, Robert Di Matteo gave starts to new signings Eden Hazard and Marko Marin, with highly-rated duo Joshua McEachran and Romelu Lukaku starting in midfield and up front respectively.It was the latter pair who combined to give the Premier League side the lead after less than three minutes. McEachran trotted through a backtracking Seattle midfield to send Lukaku through on goal. The Belgium international outmuscled Jeff Parke before slotting past Bryan Meredith to put his side 1-0 up.
It was not all plain sailing, though, as Seattle could, and perhaps should, have levelled just five minutes later when Mauro Rosales took advantage of a poor punch by Hilario in the Chelsea goal to find space inside the opposition area, but the midfielder’s rushed shot failed to threaten the goalkeeper’s net.
The American opposition was to immediately rue that haphazard finishing as Hazard showed why the Premier League outfit paid out 32 million pounds for the midfielder with a glorious solo run, evading two challenges on the way, to extend his side’s lead.
The Belgium international’s celebrations were short-lived, however, as Seattle pulled one back just three minutes later when Fredy Montero intercepted a poor pass out of defence by Branislav Ivanovic to run into the penalty area and cooly finish past Hilario.
Seattle equalised on the half hour mark, after a period of concentrated pressure which saw Alvaro Fernandez twice go close, when Montero cut inside 20 yards out and send a smart, low shot past Hilario for his, and his team’s, second of the night.
Despite their frailties at the back, Hazard was continuing to impress at the other end of the pitch for Chelsea, continually outfoxing the opposition with quick feet and awareness. But it was the other new boy to have the next telling impact as Marin cut inside from the left and curled a shot into the far bottom corner, via a sizeable deflection off Zach Scott, to restore the Blues’ lead.
And Lukaku re-established Chelsea’s two-goal advantage one minute from the break when McEachran grabbed his third assist of the game with yet another impressive through ball to allow the striker to round Meredith and pass the ball into the back of the net to end a captivating opening 45 minutes at the CenturyLink Arena.
The hosts who came the closest to opening the second half scoring when a lightning-quick counter-attack saw Andy Rose whip in a low cross that was inches away from fan favourite, Roger Levesque’s toe and a surely certain third for Seattle. Levesque earlier announced his retirement following the friendly.
That was to be the last meaningful attack of a much more tepid second period, with the story of the game being Levesque's last moments as a Sounder.
Eden Hazard and Marco Marin each notched on his debut as Chelsea ran out 4-2 winner over Seattle Sounders in the opening game of the World Football Challenge preseason tournament.
A first half double from Lukaku sandwiched the introductory goals as the English outfit lost and then restored a two-goal advantage before the half time whistle.
In his first match as permanent manager, Robert Di Matteo gave starts to new signings Eden Hazard and Marko Marin, with highly-rated duo Joshua McEachran and Romelu Lukaku starting in midfield and up front respectively.It was the latter pair who combined to give the Premier League side the lead after less than three minutes. McEachran trotted through a backtracking Seattle midfield to send Lukaku through on goal. The Belgium international outmuscled Jeff Parke before slotting past Bryan Meredith to put his side 1-0 up.
It was not all plain sailing, though, as Seattle could, and perhaps should, have levelled just five minutes later when Mauro Rosales took advantage of a poor punch by Hilario in the Chelsea goal to find space inside the opposition area, but the midfielder’s rushed shot failed to threaten the goalkeeper’s net.
The American opposition was to immediately rue that haphazard finishing as Hazard showed why the Premier League outfit paid out 32 million pounds for the midfielder with a glorious solo run, evading two challenges on the way, to extend his side’s lead.
The Belgium international’s celebrations were short-lived, however, as Seattle pulled one back just three minutes later when Fredy Montero intercepted a poor pass out of defence by Branislav Ivanovic to run into the penalty area and cooly finish past Hilario.
Seattle equalised on the half hour mark, after a period of concentrated pressure which saw Alvaro Fernandez twice go close, when Montero cut inside 20 yards out and send a smart, low shot past Hilario for his, and his team’s, second of the night.
Despite their frailties at the back, Hazard was continuing to impress at the other end of the pitch for Chelsea, continually outfoxing the opposition with quick feet and awareness. But it was the other new boy to have the next telling impact as Marin cut inside from the left and curled a shot into the far bottom corner, via a sizeable deflection off Zach Scott, to restore the Blues’ lead.
And Lukaku re-established Chelsea’s two-goal advantage one minute from the break when McEachran grabbed his third assist of the game with yet another impressive through ball to allow the striker to round Meredith and pass the ball into the back of the net to end a captivating opening 45 minutes at the CenturyLink Arena.
The hosts who came the closest to opening the second half scoring when a lightning-quick counter-attack saw Andy Rose whip in a low cross that was inches away from fan favourite, Roger Levesque’s toe and a surely certain third for Seattle. Levesque earlier announced his retirement following the friendly.
That was to be the last meaningful attack of a much more tepid second period, with the story of the game being Levesque's last moments as a Sounder.
Congratulations Manchester United!
AmaZulu 0-1 Manchester United: Macheda strike ensures winning start to tour of South Africa
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/teams/england/97/man-utdManchester United opened their pre-season account on a high note with a 1-0 win over South African side Amazulu on Tuesday night.
A first-half goal from Federico Macheda ensured that the Red Devils recorded a positive start to their summer tour.
Sir Alex Ferguson selected a mid-strength side, with the likes of Paul Scholes, Chicharito and Rio Ferdinand all starting amongst a vibrant atmosphere in Durban with many locals celebrating the birthday of Nelson Mandela, who turned 94 on Tuesday.
The first opportunity of the game went in favour of the visitors. Federico Macheda received a strong ball from outside the box before working his way into a dangerous position and providing a promising volley to Chicharito, who failed to connect before promising youngster Jesse Lingard latched onto a Robert Brady pass, only to see the ball cleared for a corner.
Amazulu’s first chance of note came in the form of a looping Ayanda Dlamini off-target effort which caught the United defence out, only to see Macheda run up the other end and break the deadlock after 20 minutes to give the visitors a 1-0 lead.The Italian ran into a Wootton delivery with blistering pace before running through on goal and slotting a cool finish past Kapini in the Amazulu goal.
The home side replied in aggressive fashion with a barrage of shots courtesy of frontman Dlamini. Namely, the striker’s impressive edge-of-the-area pop-shot called for a strong save from Lindegaard in the United goal.
Despite an improved performance from their South African opponents, United looked close to recording a second on the half-hour mark. A combination of smart skills from Dimitar Berbatov dazzled the Amazulu defence before playing in Brady on the left-hand side. The youngster’s run attracted the attention of Kapini, who cleared his cross with relative ease.
The pair combined again soon after as a wonderfully taken Brady corner dropped to Berbatov, who let fly from the 18-yard line only to find his thunderous effort met with a Kalpini save.
Amazulu responded aggressively after the break as Dlamini took advantage of a Michael Carrick slip-up to propel himself through on goal, only to find the angle too narrow to beat Lindegaard.The half’s early flurry of chances eventually fizzled out, resulting in a scrappy affair mostly held up in the middle of the pitch.United saw two changes on the hour mark, Macheda taking to the field in place of Anderson, with Brady also being replaced by Tyler Blackett.
And moments after coming on, Blackett almost gifted Amazulu with a penalty after taking down an attacker in the United box with a clumsy challenge. The challenge instead saw the Red Devils awarded with a free kick in Blackett’s favour.
Three Amazulu changes in the 65th minute encouraged the hosts to threaten the United defence. Vilakizi did well to hold up the ball before passing it to Johnson, who’s foot took an unfortunate connection with the ball resulting in his effort cruising well-wide.
A muted performance from Scholes came to an end after 70 minutes when the United veteran was replaced by Ryan Tunnicliffe. Lingard, who looked promising early-on but ultimately fell foul to fatigue, made way for Davide Petrucci.
Substitute goalkeeper Mzimela did well to prevent Amazulu from doubling the Red Devils’ lead by blocking a thunderous Hernandez shot from six-yards out.
The dying embers of the game witnessed a scrappy affair, with a Petrucci effort from 20-yards out being the only chances of the final moments.
New signing Shinji Kagawa made his United debut just before stoppage time, much to the delight of the Durban crowd, but time wasn't on his side as his first appearance ended on a muted note, United seeing out the game without further incident.
AmaZulu 0-1 Manchester United: Macheda strike ensures winning start to tour of South Africa
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/teams/england/97/man-utdManchester United opened their pre-season account on a high note with a 1-0 win over South African side Amazulu on Tuesday night.
A first-half goal from Federico Macheda ensured that the Red Devils recorded a positive start to their summer tour.
Sir Alex Ferguson selected a mid-strength side, with the likes of Paul Scholes, Chicharito and Rio Ferdinand all starting amongst a vibrant atmosphere in Durban with many locals celebrating the birthday of Nelson Mandela, who turned 94 on Tuesday.
The first opportunity of the game went in favour of the visitors. Federico Macheda received a strong ball from outside the box before working his way into a dangerous position and providing a promising volley to Chicharito, who failed to connect before promising youngster Jesse Lingard latched onto a Robert Brady pass, only to see the ball cleared for a corner.
Amazulu’s first chance of note came in the form of a looping Ayanda Dlamini off-target effort which caught the United defence out, only to see Macheda run up the other end and break the deadlock after 20 minutes to give the visitors a 1-0 lead.The Italian ran into a Wootton delivery with blistering pace before running through on goal and slotting a cool finish past Kapini in the Amazulu goal.
The home side replied in aggressive fashion with a barrage of shots courtesy of frontman Dlamini. Namely, the striker’s impressive edge-of-the-area pop-shot called for a strong save from Lindegaard in the United goal.
Despite an improved performance from their South African opponents, United looked close to recording a second on the half-hour mark. A combination of smart skills from Dimitar Berbatov dazzled the Amazulu defence before playing in Brady on the left-hand side. The youngster’s run attracted the attention of Kapini, who cleared his cross with relative ease.
The pair combined again soon after as a wonderfully taken Brady corner dropped to Berbatov, who let fly from the 18-yard line only to find his thunderous effort met with a Kalpini save.
Amazulu responded aggressively after the break as Dlamini took advantage of a Michael Carrick slip-up to propel himself through on goal, only to find the angle too narrow to beat Lindegaard.The half’s early flurry of chances eventually fizzled out, resulting in a scrappy affair mostly held up in the middle of the pitch.United saw two changes on the hour mark, Macheda taking to the field in place of Anderson, with Brady also being replaced by Tyler Blackett.
And moments after coming on, Blackett almost gifted Amazulu with a penalty after taking down an attacker in the United box with a clumsy challenge. The challenge instead saw the Red Devils awarded with a free kick in Blackett’s favour.
Three Amazulu changes in the 65th minute encouraged the hosts to threaten the United defence. Vilakizi did well to hold up the ball before passing it to Johnson, who’s foot took an unfortunate connection with the ball resulting in his effort cruising well-wide.
A muted performance from Scholes came to an end after 70 minutes when the United veteran was replaced by Ryan Tunnicliffe. Lingard, who looked promising early-on but ultimately fell foul to fatigue, made way for Davide Petrucci.
Substitute goalkeeper Mzimela did well to prevent Amazulu from doubling the Red Devils’ lead by blocking a thunderous Hernandez shot from six-yards out.
The dying embers of the game witnessed a scrappy affair, with a Petrucci effort from 20-yards out being the only chances of the final moments.
New signing Shinji Kagawa made his United debut just before stoppage time, much to the delight of the Durban crowd, but time wasn't on his side as his first appearance ended on a muted note, United seeing out the game without further incident.
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