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..::Football II::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
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Ibrahimovic desperate for Ancelotti stay
The 31-year-old hopes the Italian stays put at Parc des Princes, while adding that he is more than happy in France Paris Saint-Germain striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic says he still hopes Carlo Ancelotti stays at the club, despite the Italian revealing his desire to join Real Madrid.
Ancelotti led les Parisiens to the Ligue 1 title earlier this month, but his future has been thrown into doubt after los Blancos put him at the top of their list to succeed Jose Mourinho.
However, Ibrahimovic is still hopeful the 53-year-old will change his mind and continue his role at the PSG helm.
"Every day, a new name becomes linked to our bench but nothing is official," Ibrahimovic said to le Parisien.
"Ancelotti is still the coach so it makes no sense to speak of another. And I still hope Ancelotti will stay."
The Sweden international arrived from AC Milan last summer to much fanfare , and wasted no time in scoring 35 goals in his debut season at the club.
And despite admitting he missed Italian football, Ibrahimovic stressed his happiness both in France and with his own performances this term.
"Tomorrow will be the last game against Lorient, we are already champions, but I want to play and keep pace in preparation for the national team," he continued.
"This is my first year, my stats are good, and nobody else has scored as many since a long time ago. We'll see how many goals I score at the end, but I'm very happy.
The 31-year-old hopes the Italian stays put at Parc des Princes, while adding that he is more than happy in France Paris Saint-Germain striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic says he still hopes Carlo Ancelotti stays at the club, despite the Italian revealing his desire to join Real Madrid.
Ancelotti led les Parisiens to the Ligue 1 title earlier this month, but his future has been thrown into doubt after los Blancos put him at the top of their list to succeed Jose Mourinho.
However, Ibrahimovic is still hopeful the 53-year-old will change his mind and continue his role at the PSG helm.
"Every day, a new name becomes linked to our bench but nothing is official," Ibrahimovic said to le Parisien.
"Ancelotti is still the coach so it makes no sense to speak of another. And I still hope Ancelotti will stay."
The Sweden international arrived from AC Milan last summer to much fanfare , and wasted no time in scoring 35 goals in his debut season at the club.
And despite admitting he missed Italian football, Ibrahimovic stressed his happiness both in France and with his own performances this term.
"Tomorrow will be the last game against Lorient, we are already champions, but I want to play and keep pace in preparation for the national team," he continued.
"This is my first year, my stats are good, and nobody else has scored as many since a long time ago. We'll see how many goals I score at the end, but I'm very happy.
Roura: Madrid will be be tough to beat without Mourinho
The Barcelona assistant doubts the Portuguese's departure will weaken the Blancos and revealed that Tito Vilanova has once more returned from his cancer treatment in New York Barcelona's second-in-command Jordi Roura does not believe Jose Mourinho's departure will weaken arch-rival Real Madrid.
The Portuguese was long rumored to be leaving the Santiago Bernabeu and it was finally confirmed this week, though the Blaugrana assistant was reluctant to read too much into the exit.
Roura said: "It's not up to me to comment on [Mourinho leaving]. Madrid will always be a difficult opponent."
Roura also revealed that Tito Vilanova has returned from further cancer treatment in New York and reported that the head coach is looking healthy.
He added: "Tito has arrived back from New York very cheerful. He looks happy - the tests went well and he looks good."
Barca faces city rival Espanyol in the penultimate Liga game of the season and Roura said it is up to its opposition if it wants to give a guard of honor, while revealing Carles Puyol will be rested though Dani Alves could feature.
"[Espanyol] are free to do what they want. We can't say anything, Espanyol can decide," he continued.
"Alves trained well, we'll see tomorrow if he can play. We will focus on Puyol returning next season as we want him to be back totally recovered."
Barca kicks off against its local rival on Sunday as it pursues the 100-point mark - something it has never reached before and requires two wins out of two to achieve.
The Barcelona assistant doubts the Portuguese's departure will weaken the Blancos and revealed that Tito Vilanova has once more returned from his cancer treatment in New York Barcelona's second-in-command Jordi Roura does not believe Jose Mourinho's departure will weaken arch-rival Real Madrid.
The Portuguese was long rumored to be leaving the Santiago Bernabeu and it was finally confirmed this week, though the Blaugrana assistant was reluctant to read too much into the exit.
Roura said: "It's not up to me to comment on [Mourinho leaving]. Madrid will always be a difficult opponent."
Roura also revealed that Tito Vilanova has returned from further cancer treatment in New York and reported that the head coach is looking healthy.
He added: "Tito has arrived back from New York very cheerful. He looks happy - the tests went well and he looks good."
Barca faces city rival Espanyol in the penultimate Liga game of the season and Roura said it is up to its opposition if it wants to give a guard of honor, while revealing Carles Puyol will be rested though Dani Alves could feature.
"[Espanyol] are free to do what they want. We can't say anything, Espanyol can decide," he continued.
"Alves trained well, we'll see tomorrow if he can play. We will focus on Puyol returning next season as we want him to be back totally recovered."
Barca kicks off against its local rival on Sunday as it pursues the 100-point mark - something it has never reached before and requires two wins out of two to achieve.
David Luiz: Neymar will learn more in Europe
Speaking before Santos accepted two bids from Barcelona and Real Madrid, the Blues star reveals his advice to the starlet and gave his opinion on Jose Mourinho
Chelsea star David Luiz believes outgoing Santos star Neymar will become a much better player once he chooses to move to Europe.
Speaking before news broke that the Sao Paulo club have accepted bids believed to be from Barcelona and Real Madrid, the defender outlined how a shift from South America will help the 21-year-old blossom.
"Neymar is a great player," Luiz told Goal. "Of course I've talked to him about European football and I said to him: 'You need to do things you have inside your heart.'
"If he is happy to stay in Brazil, stay in Brazil but, if he wants to move, he needs to move because Europe can take a lot of potential, you can learn many different things about tactics and you improve your game."
With Jose Mourinho set to seal a return to the Blues' hotseat following his departure from Real Madrid, Luiz is excited about working with the Portuguese.
"If he comes back for Chelsea, I think he is a great coach," he enthused. "He has a lot of credibility in the world because he always did a great job. So of course everyone wants to have an opportunity to work with him."
Asked if he had spoken to longer-serving teammates about what Mourinho's return would mean, the Brazilian replied, "They don't need to talk to me. I know about football.
"I know about Jose Mourinho and I watch television. I know him from Portugal, I know many things about him, so I know he is a great coach."
Luiz impressed Chelsea supporters in 2012-13 with his increasingly frequent contributions in a midfield role rather than center back and he is enthusiastic about his development, though he has no particular preference over where he plays.
"It was amazing for me because I learned many things, new things, that can help me for the future to improve my game and to be a better player," he remarked of his new position. "That is why I work hard every day, to improve, to help the team. It was a great season for me and for the team.
He added, "I love football. It doesn't matter if I need to play in midfield or center back or striker or whatever; I want to help my team. I'm happy with the ball, I'm happy because I have the best job in the world."
Speaking before Santos accepted two bids from Barcelona and Real Madrid, the Blues star reveals his advice to the starlet and gave his opinion on Jose Mourinho
Chelsea star David Luiz believes outgoing Santos star Neymar will become a much better player once he chooses to move to Europe.
Speaking before news broke that the Sao Paulo club have accepted bids believed to be from Barcelona and Real Madrid, the defender outlined how a shift from South America will help the 21-year-old blossom.
"Neymar is a great player," Luiz told Goal. "Of course I've talked to him about European football and I said to him: 'You need to do things you have inside your heart.'
"If he is happy to stay in Brazil, stay in Brazil but, if he wants to move, he needs to move because Europe can take a lot of potential, you can learn many different things about tactics and you improve your game."
With Jose Mourinho set to seal a return to the Blues' hotseat following his departure from Real Madrid, Luiz is excited about working with the Portuguese.
"If he comes back for Chelsea, I think he is a great coach," he enthused. "He has a lot of credibility in the world because he always did a great job. So of course everyone wants to have an opportunity to work with him."
Asked if he had spoken to longer-serving teammates about what Mourinho's return would mean, the Brazilian replied, "They don't need to talk to me. I know about football.
"I know about Jose Mourinho and I watch television. I know him from Portugal, I know many things about him, so I know he is a great coach."
Luiz impressed Chelsea supporters in 2012-13 with his increasingly frequent contributions in a midfield role rather than center back and he is enthusiastic about his development, though he has no particular preference over where he plays.
"It was amazing for me because I learned many things, new things, that can help me for the future to improve my game and to be a better player," he remarked of his new position. "That is why I work hard every day, to improve, to help the team. It was a great season for me and for the team.
He added, "I love football. It doesn't matter if I need to play in midfield or center back or striker or whatever; I want to help my team. I'm happy with the ball, I'm happy because I have the best job in the world."
Neymar to decide between Barcelona and Real Madrid
The attacker enthuses about "the happiest moment of my life" after Santos accepted two bids, with the two Liga rivals neck-and-neck as the race for his signature nears its end Neymar has revealed that he will take time to choose his next club after Santos accepted bids for the forward on Friday.
The Brazil international, 21, has been subject to intense interest from Barcelona in recent weeks and it is widely believed that both the Blaugrana and Real Madrid are behind the offers for the starlet.
And Neymar - who described learning that the bids had been accepted as "the happiest moment of my life" - insists he will take his time over the decision of where he will ply his trade.
"It's an honor, this is the happiest moment of my life and I am going to give a lot of thought to the two offers," the forward told reporters in Brazil.
"I'm going to make this decision with my family, there's no rush. I could make my decision in five minutes, half an hour or three days. My family will help decide what's best for me."
Neymar has long courted interest from a plethora of European giants, with Bayern Munich and Chelsea having both been linked with the player in the past along with the Spanish duo.
The Selecao starlet was named in the longlist for the 2013 Ballon d'Or, which was ultimately won by Lionel Messi, ahead of his Barca teammate Andres Iniesta and Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo.
Neymar is also part of Luiz Felipe Scolari's squad for the upcoming Confederations Cup, which kicks off in Brazil in June.
The attacker enthuses about "the happiest moment of my life" after Santos accepted two bids, with the two Liga rivals neck-and-neck as the race for his signature nears its end Neymar has revealed that he will take time to choose his next club after Santos accepted bids for the forward on Friday.
The Brazil international, 21, has been subject to intense interest from Barcelona in recent weeks and it is widely believed that both the Blaugrana and Real Madrid are behind the offers for the starlet.
And Neymar - who described learning that the bids had been accepted as "the happiest moment of my life" - insists he will take his time over the decision of where he will ply his trade.
"It's an honor, this is the happiest moment of my life and I am going to give a lot of thought to the two offers," the forward told reporters in Brazil.
"I'm going to make this decision with my family, there's no rush. I could make my decision in five minutes, half an hour or three days. My family will help decide what's best for me."
Neymar has long courted interest from a plethora of European giants, with Bayern Munich and Chelsea having both been linked with the player in the past along with the Spanish duo.
The Selecao starlet was named in the longlist for the 2013 Ballon d'Or, which was ultimately won by Lionel Messi, ahead of his Barca teammate Andres Iniesta and Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo.
Neymar is also part of Luiz Felipe Scolari's squad for the upcoming Confederations Cup, which kicks off in Brazil in June.
Borussia Dortmund 1-2 Bayern Munich: Robben earns redemption with late winner
Arjen Robben buried the demons of finals past with a last-gasp goal to give Bayern Munich the 2012-13 Champions League title with a 2-1 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the final at Wembley on Saturday.
Dortmund was the superior side during a captivating yet goalless first half, forcing Manual Neuer into a succession of saves - though opposite number Roman Weidenfeller was also called into action more than once.
With an hour gone, Mario Mandzukic put the Bavarians ahead from close range, but a clumsy foul by Dante on Marco Reus allowed Ilkay Gundogan to level the scores from the penalty spot eight minutes later.
But with one minute remaining in regulation time, Arjen Robben stole in to squeeze the ball over the line, and ensure that Bayern Munich took home the trophy that eluded it in 2010 and 2012.
Mandzukic shook off competition from Mario Gomez to lead the line for the Bavarians, and in defense, Jerome Boateng edged out Daniel Van Buyten to partner Dante.With Mario Gotze unable to face his future club due to a hamstring injury, Kevin Grosskreutz began on the flanks for BVB, while Mats Hummels recovered from a minor ankle complaint to start at the back.
Amid an electric atmosphere, Dortmund bossed the opening exchanges, and with 11 minutes gone, Jakub ‘Kuba’ Blaszczykowski delivered a sign of things to come with a half volley that flew off target.
Moments later, Robert Lewandowski, after overrunning an earlier break, drew the first save of the game from Manuel Neuer, who acrobatically yet securely diverted his 20-yard piledriver over the bar.Kuba was quickly at it again, calling Neuer into action at his near post, and the Bayern keeper’s reflexes were tested further when Reus and Sven Bender angled low efforts on target in quick succession.
Dortmund clearly had its Bundesliga rival on the ropes, but breathed a sigh of relief itself 25 minutes in when Weidenfeller reacted splendidly to tip away Mandzukic’s towering header.And the BVB No.1 did just as well to race off his line and deny Robben, who broke clear but ignored his teammates to shave an attempt at goal.
Dante then picked up the first booking of the game for bringing down Kuba, but Franck Ribery would escape punishment for raising an arm to Lewandowski.
Both keepers remained in the spotlight for the remainder of the half, Neuer denying Lewandowski from in close, before Robben botched another one-on-one, firing right at Weidenfeller after a miscue by Hummels.But Dortmund struggled to match the heights of its enterprising first half, as Bayern seemed a far more purposeful outfit after the break.
And right on the hour mark, Mandzukic would come up with the goods. Robben did the hard work, latching onto a smart Ribery feed to beat Weidenfeller to the byline and square to the Croatian, who guided the ball over the line.
But the lead would not last long. Dante caught Reus in the stomach with his leg inside the area, leaving the referee with little choice but to award a penalty – though the Brazilin was lucky not to see a second yellow card.Lewandowski, who missed a penalty in the last meeting between these two sides, took a backseat to Gundogan, who drilled confidently into the bottom corner, sending Neuer the wrong way.
It should have been 2-1 to Bayern in the 71st minute after a nifty move and cross by Thomas Muller found Robben waiting to tap into an empty net at the far post, but somehow, Neven Subotic kept up to slide the ball away magnificently.The title was there for the taking as the match entered its closing stages, and Weidenfeller had to remain on his toes twice to beat away long-range efforts from David Alaba and Bastian Schweinsteiger.
And in the 89th minute, Robben did just that, breaking the offside trap to beat Weidenfeller with a weak shot, and finally send the trophy back again to the Allianz Arena.
Arjen Robben buried the demons of finals past with a last-gasp goal to give Bayern Munich the 2012-13 Champions League title with a 2-1 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the final at Wembley on Saturday.
Dortmund was the superior side during a captivating yet goalless first half, forcing Manual Neuer into a succession of saves - though opposite number Roman Weidenfeller was also called into action more than once.
With an hour gone, Mario Mandzukic put the Bavarians ahead from close range, but a clumsy foul by Dante on Marco Reus allowed Ilkay Gundogan to level the scores from the penalty spot eight minutes later.
But with one minute remaining in regulation time, Arjen Robben stole in to squeeze the ball over the line, and ensure that Bayern Munich took home the trophy that eluded it in 2010 and 2012.
Mandzukic shook off competition from Mario Gomez to lead the line for the Bavarians, and in defense, Jerome Boateng edged out Daniel Van Buyten to partner Dante.With Mario Gotze unable to face his future club due to a hamstring injury, Kevin Grosskreutz began on the flanks for BVB, while Mats Hummels recovered from a minor ankle complaint to start at the back.
Amid an electric atmosphere, Dortmund bossed the opening exchanges, and with 11 minutes gone, Jakub ‘Kuba’ Blaszczykowski delivered a sign of things to come with a half volley that flew off target.
Moments later, Robert Lewandowski, after overrunning an earlier break, drew the first save of the game from Manuel Neuer, who acrobatically yet securely diverted his 20-yard piledriver over the bar.Kuba was quickly at it again, calling Neuer into action at his near post, and the Bayern keeper’s reflexes were tested further when Reus and Sven Bender angled low efforts on target in quick succession.
Dortmund clearly had its Bundesliga rival on the ropes, but breathed a sigh of relief itself 25 minutes in when Weidenfeller reacted splendidly to tip away Mandzukic’s towering header.And the BVB No.1 did just as well to race off his line and deny Robben, who broke clear but ignored his teammates to shave an attempt at goal.
Dante then picked up the first booking of the game for bringing down Kuba, but Franck Ribery would escape punishment for raising an arm to Lewandowski.
Both keepers remained in the spotlight for the remainder of the half, Neuer denying Lewandowski from in close, before Robben botched another one-on-one, firing right at Weidenfeller after a miscue by Hummels.But Dortmund struggled to match the heights of its enterprising first half, as Bayern seemed a far more purposeful outfit after the break.
And right on the hour mark, Mandzukic would come up with the goods. Robben did the hard work, latching onto a smart Ribery feed to beat Weidenfeller to the byline and square to the Croatian, who guided the ball over the line.
But the lead would not last long. Dante caught Reus in the stomach with his leg inside the area, leaving the referee with little choice but to award a penalty – though the Brazilin was lucky not to see a second yellow card.Lewandowski, who missed a penalty in the last meeting between these two sides, took a backseat to Gundogan, who drilled confidently into the bottom corner, sending Neuer the wrong way.
It should have been 2-1 to Bayern in the 71st minute after a nifty move and cross by Thomas Muller found Robben waiting to tap into an empty net at the far post, but somehow, Neven Subotic kept up to slide the ball away magnificently.The title was there for the taking as the match entered its closing stages, and Weidenfeller had to remain on his toes twice to beat away long-range efforts from David Alaba and Bastian Schweinsteiger.
And in the 89th minute, Robben did just that, breaking the offside trap to beat Weidenfeller with a weak shot, and finally send the trophy back again to the Allianz Arena.
Marko Marin: Next manager will determine my future at Chelsea
The diminutive German playmaker revealed to Goal that his future will be decided by the next manager at the club and also expressed his delight at the Champions League Final.BRONX, NY -- German international Marko Marin admits that his future at Chelsea all depends on the club's next manager - likely Jose Mourinho.
Marin was asked on about whether or not, he would like to go on loan after his first season with the Blues only saw him make six appearances for the club.
"It is difficult to talk about the next season because nothing is official with the new manager," Marin told Goal. "We will have to wait on the new manager and then I'll talk to him."
Marin was considered to be a rising talent in the Bundesliga before his arrival at Chelsea last summer. Injuries were a part of his limited chances to play with the team as he missed the first half of the season with a hamstring tear. Marin wouldn't discuss whether or not he heard anything about Mourinho's potential arrival but admits that remaining Chelsea players that played under him previously are excited about the prospect of his return.
"I don't like to talk about things that maybe happen, but I only know things about him from the players who played under him," Marin said. "They were all happy with him and they will be happy if he comes."
Prior to Chelsea's 5-3 defeat to Manchester City at Yankee Stadium, Marin and his Chelsea teammates watched Bayern Munich's 2-1 win over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League Final. Marin was proud that the two German teams played an open and entertaining match.
"It was an intensive game," Marin said. "In the first half, Dortmund were the better team but Bayern was still dangerous with some big chances. At the end, maybe's Bayern's a bit lucky, but they did really nice. They had a great season and they deserved to win the title.
"In Germany, everyone was so happy that there was a German final. Now, it's good that after a long time, a German team won."
The diminutive German playmaker revealed to Goal that his future will be decided by the next manager at the club and also expressed his delight at the Champions League Final.BRONX, NY -- German international Marko Marin admits that his future at Chelsea all depends on the club's next manager - likely Jose Mourinho.
Marin was asked on about whether or not, he would like to go on loan after his first season with the Blues only saw him make six appearances for the club.
"It is difficult to talk about the next season because nothing is official with the new manager," Marin told Goal. "We will have to wait on the new manager and then I'll talk to him."
Marin was considered to be a rising talent in the Bundesliga before his arrival at Chelsea last summer. Injuries were a part of his limited chances to play with the team as he missed the first half of the season with a hamstring tear. Marin wouldn't discuss whether or not he heard anything about Mourinho's potential arrival but admits that remaining Chelsea players that played under him previously are excited about the prospect of his return.
"I don't like to talk about things that maybe happen, but I only know things about him from the players who played under him," Marin said. "They were all happy with him and they will be happy if he comes."
Prior to Chelsea's 5-3 defeat to Manchester City at Yankee Stadium, Marin and his Chelsea teammates watched Bayern Munich's 2-1 win over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League Final. Marin was proud that the two German teams played an open and entertaining match.
"It was an intensive game," Marin said. "In the first half, Dortmund were the better team but Bayern was still dangerous with some big chances. At the end, maybe's Bayern's a bit lucky, but they did really nice. They had a great season and they deserved to win the title.
"In Germany, everyone was so happy that there was a German final. Now, it's good that after a long time, a German team won."
Fernando Torres is preparing for more incoming strikers
Torres revealed to Goal that he expects to see new additions at the striker position but insists he's prepared and happy at Chelsea.BRONX, N.Y. -- Chelsea striker Fernando Torres fully expects the Blues to recruit more strikers this summer but insists that he's ready for the challenge.
The Spanish striker scored 23 goals for Chelsea across all competitions last season. However, after the arrival of Demba Ba in the January transfer window, Torres only scored once in the Premier League, on the last day of the season.
So does the possibility of the Blues recruiting more strikers this summer concern Torres?
"No. It's Chelsea," Torres told Goal. "Obviously, big players are linked with the club. It's normal, especially in this period of the year with the summer. The places and names of players that every year [are linked] - we'll see what happens."
Atletico Madrid's Radamel Falcao, Napoli's Edinson Cavani and Aston Villa's Christian Benteke have been linked with the club. England's summer transfer window opens on June 9. Still, Torres isn't focused on incoming competition at his position
He hopes that he and his Chelsea teammates can continue the improved form that they showed toward the end of the season. Torres scored the game-winning goal that secured Chelsea its first ever Europa League title against Benfica. The 29-year-old also scored the goal against Everton which secured third in the Premier League.
"There's no doubt about it [that I showed improvement towards the end of the season]," Torres said. "When the team improves and wins trophies, everyone individually improves. That's the case with this team, not just me. Many of the other players at the end of the season reached a very good level. So that's building towards next season."
Torres believes that Chelsea isn't too far from reaching its lofty ambitions for next season and believes that if the team can buy reinforcements for weak areas and build team chemistry, it can bring more trophies to the Stamford Bridge faithful.
"As always, you need new players and a new challenge. Keep on playing together. Training and training together as much as we can," Torres explained. "The team is going to improve, we have enough talent individually to win games."
Torres captained Chelsea in its 5-3 defeat to Manchester City on Saturday and despite losing to the Premier League runner-up, he insists that he enjoyed his first time playing at Yankee Stadium.
"Very good experience - it's a lovely stadium and thanks to the supporters for being amazing since the first day we got here in New York," Torres said. "All together, I think they enjoyed the game."
Finally, Torres was adamant that he is happy at Chelsea despite rumors linking with a move away from London.
"I signed a five-and-half year contract, so hopefully I'll stay at Chelsea for at least five-and-half years," Torres told reporters. "Maybe more, who knows."
Torres revealed to Goal that he expects to see new additions at the striker position but insists he's prepared and happy at Chelsea.BRONX, N.Y. -- Chelsea striker Fernando Torres fully expects the Blues to recruit more strikers this summer but insists that he's ready for the challenge.
The Spanish striker scored 23 goals for Chelsea across all competitions last season. However, after the arrival of Demba Ba in the January transfer window, Torres only scored once in the Premier League, on the last day of the season.
So does the possibility of the Blues recruiting more strikers this summer concern Torres?
"No. It's Chelsea," Torres told Goal. "Obviously, big players are linked with the club. It's normal, especially in this period of the year with the summer. The places and names of players that every year [are linked] - we'll see what happens."
Atletico Madrid's Radamel Falcao, Napoli's Edinson Cavani and Aston Villa's Christian Benteke have been linked with the club. England's summer transfer window opens on June 9. Still, Torres isn't focused on incoming competition at his position
He hopes that he and his Chelsea teammates can continue the improved form that they showed toward the end of the season. Torres scored the game-winning goal that secured Chelsea its first ever Europa League title against Benfica. The 29-year-old also scored the goal against Everton which secured third in the Premier League.
"There's no doubt about it [that I showed improvement towards the end of the season]," Torres said. "When the team improves and wins trophies, everyone individually improves. That's the case with this team, not just me. Many of the other players at the end of the season reached a very good level. So that's building towards next season."
Torres believes that Chelsea isn't too far from reaching its lofty ambitions for next season and believes that if the team can buy reinforcements for weak areas and build team chemistry, it can bring more trophies to the Stamford Bridge faithful.
"As always, you need new players and a new challenge. Keep on playing together. Training and training together as much as we can," Torres explained. "The team is going to improve, we have enough talent individually to win games."
Torres captained Chelsea in its 5-3 defeat to Manchester City on Saturday and despite losing to the Premier League runner-up, he insists that he enjoyed his first time playing at Yankee Stadium.
"Very good experience - it's a lovely stadium and thanks to the supporters for being amazing since the first day we got here in New York," Torres said. "All together, I think they enjoyed the game."
Finally, Torres was adamant that he is happy at Chelsea despite rumors linking with a move away from London.
"I signed a five-and-half year contract, so hopefully I'll stay at Chelsea for at least five-and-half years," Torres told reporters. "Maybe more, who knows."
AC Milan, Chelsea, Everton and Valencia join Guinness International Champions Cup
The Guinness International Champions Cup filled out its roster by announcing four more European teams to the summer tournament. The Guinness International Champions Cup announced the final four teams which will take part in the U.S.-based summer tournament. AC Milan, Chelsea, Everton and Valencia join the previously-announced Inter, LA Galaxy, Juventus and Real Madrid.
The tournament begins on July 27 and will take place in Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Francisco, Indianapolis and New York. All eight teams will play in Miami's Sun Life Stadium, which will host a pair of double-headers in August.
Chelsea, which played a pair of friendlies with Manchester City in the United States this week, was the 2012 MLS All-Star opponent. The Blues are the reigning Europa League champions. Since 2005, they have won three league titles, four FA Cups and both the Champions League and Europa League.
Everton finished sixth in the Premier League before losing manager David Moyes to Manchester United. American Tim Howard tends goal for the Toffees, as he did when Everton took on the MLS All-Stars in 2009.
Valencia employs Mexican winger Andres Guardado. It ended fifth in the Spanish Liga and last won the title in 2004.
Milan sealed a Champions League berth on the last day of the season, clinching third in Italy. The Rossoneri, which won the last of their 18 Serie A titles in 2011, has conquered Europe seven times.
The Guinness International Champions Cup filled out its roster by announcing four more European teams to the summer tournament. The Guinness International Champions Cup announced the final four teams which will take part in the U.S.-based summer tournament. AC Milan, Chelsea, Everton and Valencia join the previously-announced Inter, LA Galaxy, Juventus and Real Madrid.
The tournament begins on July 27 and will take place in Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Francisco, Indianapolis and New York. All eight teams will play in Miami's Sun Life Stadium, which will host a pair of double-headers in August.
Chelsea, which played a pair of friendlies with Manchester City in the United States this week, was the 2012 MLS All-Star opponent. The Blues are the reigning Europa League champions. Since 2005, they have won three league titles, four FA Cups and both the Champions League and Europa League.
Everton finished sixth in the Premier League before losing manager David Moyes to Manchester United. American Tim Howard tends goal for the Toffees, as he did when Everton took on the MLS All-Stars in 2009.
Valencia employs Mexican winger Andres Guardado. It ended fifth in the Spanish Liga and last won the title in 2004.
Milan sealed a Champions League berth on the last day of the season, clinching third in Italy. The Rossoneri, which won the last of their 18 Serie A titles in 2011, has conquered Europe seven times.
Heynckes hints at Lewandowski Dortmund exit
The Bayern Munich boss has suggested that the Polish striker could be on his way to the Allianz Arena next season, claiming he "won't be hanging about too much".
Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes has dropped his biggest hint yet that Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski could leave at the end of the season.
Lewandowski has repeatedly implied he will leave BVB at the end of the season, with Bayern reportedly leading a chase which has also included the likes of Manchester United and Juventus.
And after ensuring Dortmund's incredible run to the Champions League final ended in glorious failure, Heynckes intimated the Pole could follow Mario Gotze to the Allianz Arena.
"We know Mario Gotze will be joining us and i don't think Lewandowski will be hanging about too much either," he told reporters.
He then joked: "I expect Gündogan, Reus, Hummels, Piszczek and Subotic to follow. Hell, even Schieber!"
After his side's final defeat, Mats Hummels admitted the Dortmund players are aware Lewandowski wants to leave the club, and hopes they can find an able replacement.
"We know that Lewandowski wants to leave and we're sorry for this," he told Mediaset.
"When he came here three years ago he was only a less known player and we're proud and happy for him. We can only hope a new Lewandowski can arrive at Dortmund."
The Bayern Munich boss has suggested that the Polish striker could be on his way to the Allianz Arena next season, claiming he "won't be hanging about too much".
Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes has dropped his biggest hint yet that Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski could leave at the end of the season.
Lewandowski has repeatedly implied he will leave BVB at the end of the season, with Bayern reportedly leading a chase which has also included the likes of Manchester United and Juventus.
And after ensuring Dortmund's incredible run to the Champions League final ended in glorious failure, Heynckes intimated the Pole could follow Mario Gotze to the Allianz Arena.
"We know Mario Gotze will be joining us and i don't think Lewandowski will be hanging about too much either," he told reporters.
He then joked: "I expect Gündogan, Reus, Hummels, Piszczek and Subotic to follow. Hell, even Schieber!"
After his side's final defeat, Mats Hummels admitted the Dortmund players are aware Lewandowski wants to leave the club, and hopes they can find an able replacement.
"We know that Lewandowski wants to leave and we're sorry for this," he told Mediaset.
"When he came here three years ago he was only a less known player and we're proud and happy for him. We can only hope a new Lewandowski can arrive at Dortmund."
Klopp: Dortmund will be back
The BVB boss has assured the football world that there is still plenty to come from his side, in the wake of its defeat at Wembley.
Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp has insisted that he and his side will bounce back from its heartbreaking 2-1 Champions League defeat to Bundesliga rival Bayern Munich on Saturday evening.A late strike from Arjen Robben saw Jupp Heynckes' men crowned European Champions after a scintillating clash at Wembley between the German sides, but Klopp has assured everyone that his outfit will be back.
“I've told the players that we will come back,” said Klopp. “Maybe not to Wembley but we will try to come back to another final. That’s what I told them. “
Dortmund has lit up the competition this season with its brand of swashbuckling attacking football, but the final in London was ultimately won by Bundesliga champion Bayern, and the former Mainz boss was quick to praise his rivals.
"First and foremost, congratulations to Bayern Munich because they won so it's not important to speak about what happened in the game.
“Congratulations to Bayern and Jupp [Heynckes]. You can’t begrudge him the win. We were right in it but at the end, everything came together for Bayern and they won the game.Despite offering those congratulations to the Bavarians after the match, the Dortmund coach could not hide his heartache at the result, and struggled to manage his emotions, simply adding:
“The result is so sh*t."However, Klopp was defiant in his defense of BVB, insisting that they gave everything after a taxing campaign.
“It was late in the game and it has been a really hard season for us," he said, "I saw it from 75 minutes on, it was hard for us. Bayern Munich had to fight too."We deserved to be in the final and we showed this tonight."
The 45-year-old then looked forward to next season, and concluded that he would need to delve into the transfer market if Dortmund were to remain competitive at the highest level“We have to go on,” said the German. “We have to buy some players because we need some players because other clubs want our players.”
Dortmund ends the season having finished runner-up to Bayern in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League final.
The BVB boss has assured the football world that there is still plenty to come from his side, in the wake of its defeat at Wembley.
Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp has insisted that he and his side will bounce back from its heartbreaking 2-1 Champions League defeat to Bundesliga rival Bayern Munich on Saturday evening.A late strike from Arjen Robben saw Jupp Heynckes' men crowned European Champions after a scintillating clash at Wembley between the German sides, but Klopp has assured everyone that his outfit will be back.
“I've told the players that we will come back,” said Klopp. “Maybe not to Wembley but we will try to come back to another final. That’s what I told them. “
Dortmund has lit up the competition this season with its brand of swashbuckling attacking football, but the final in London was ultimately won by Bundesliga champion Bayern, and the former Mainz boss was quick to praise his rivals.
"First and foremost, congratulations to Bayern Munich because they won so it's not important to speak about what happened in the game.
“Congratulations to Bayern and Jupp [Heynckes]. You can’t begrudge him the win. We were right in it but at the end, everything came together for Bayern and they won the game.Despite offering those congratulations to the Bavarians after the match, the Dortmund coach could not hide his heartache at the result, and struggled to manage his emotions, simply adding:
“The result is so sh*t."However, Klopp was defiant in his defense of BVB, insisting that they gave everything after a taxing campaign.
“It was late in the game and it has been a really hard season for us," he said, "I saw it from 75 minutes on, it was hard for us. Bayern Munich had to fight too."We deserved to be in the final and we showed this tonight."
The 45-year-old then looked forward to next season, and concluded that he would need to delve into the transfer market if Dortmund were to remain competitive at the highest level“We have to go on,” said the German. “We have to buy some players because we need some players because other clubs want our players.”
Dortmund ends the season having finished runner-up to Bayern in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League final.
Sir Alex Ferguson presents Bayern Munich hero Robben with man-of-the-match award
The Dutchman's 89th-minute effort sealed a 2-1 victory for Jupp Heynckes' side after Ilkay Gundogan's penalty had canceled out Mario Mandzukic's opener.
Sir Alex Ferguson presented Arjen Robben with the man-of-the-match award at Wembley following Bayern Munich's Champions League final victory over Borussia Dortmund on Saturday.
The Dutchman's 89th-minute strike sealed a 2-1 victory for Jupp Heynckes' side after Ilkay Gundogan's penalty had canceled out Mario Mandzukic's opener.
"It's my first job since I retired," Sir Alex quipped to reporters.
Robben, who also assisted Mandzukic's close-range effort in the 60th minute, paid tribute to the retiring Scot, who ended his 26-year reign at Manchester United earlier this month.
"I think it’s such a shame a world class trainer is leaving the job," Robben said.
An end-to-end first half at Wembley finished goalless but both Roman Weidenfeller and Manuel Neuer were called into action to produce saves.
After the break, Robben and Ribery combined as the Dutchman found space inside Dortmund's box and provided an inviting pass for Mandzukic to put Bayern a goal ahead.
But just eight minutes later, Dante, who had already picked up a yellow card, attempted to clear the ball in the area but only connected with Marco Reus' midriff. Gundogan stepped up for the penalty and sent Neuer the wrong way.
The match looked destined for extra time but with a minute of normal time remaining, Ribery and Robben combined again and the Dutchman tiptoed clear in the box and squeezed a low effort past Weidenfeller to hand Bayern Champions League glory.
The Dutchman's 89th-minute effort sealed a 2-1 victory for Jupp Heynckes' side after Ilkay Gundogan's penalty had canceled out Mario Mandzukic's opener.
Sir Alex Ferguson presented Arjen Robben with the man-of-the-match award at Wembley following Bayern Munich's Champions League final victory over Borussia Dortmund on Saturday.
The Dutchman's 89th-minute strike sealed a 2-1 victory for Jupp Heynckes' side after Ilkay Gundogan's penalty had canceled out Mario Mandzukic's opener.
"It's my first job since I retired," Sir Alex quipped to reporters.
Robben, who also assisted Mandzukic's close-range effort in the 60th minute, paid tribute to the retiring Scot, who ended his 26-year reign at Manchester United earlier this month.
"I think it’s such a shame a world class trainer is leaving the job," Robben said.
An end-to-end first half at Wembley finished goalless but both Roman Weidenfeller and Manuel Neuer were called into action to produce saves.
After the break, Robben and Ribery combined as the Dutchman found space inside Dortmund's box and provided an inviting pass for Mandzukic to put Bayern a goal ahead.
But just eight minutes later, Dante, who had already picked up a yellow card, attempted to clear the ball in the area but only connected with Marco Reus' midriff. Gundogan stepped up for the penalty and sent Neuer the wrong way.
The match looked destined for extra time but with a minute of normal time remaining, Ribery and Robben combined again and the Dutchman tiptoed clear in the box and squeezed a low effort past Weidenfeller to hand Bayern Champions League glory.
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