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Crystal Palace 1-0 Watford (aet): Veteran Phillips sends Eagles to Premier League
Crystal Palace will once again ply its trade in the Premier League after Kevin Phillips' extra-time penalty saw off Watford 1-0 in the Championship playoff final.
After a forgetful first half, Crystal Palace put Watford's defense to the test in the second period with Manuel Almunia pulling off a string of impressive saves to take the game into extra time.
Julian Speroni remarkably denied Troy Deeney the chance to grab the lead during an energy-sapping extra 30 minutes before Marco Cassetti hung out a tired leg, bringing down Wilfried Zaha and allowing Phillips to cooly dispatch the 120 million-pound penalty, sparking euphoric scenes among the Palace supporters at Wembley Stadium.
Zaha overcame an ankle knock to make Ian Holloway's starting lineup, but Palace arrived at Wembley without their topscorer Glenn Murray, who suffered a cruciate ligament injury prior to the playoffs. Aaron Wilbraham led the attack with veteran frontman Phillips starting on the bench.
Gianfranco Zola had no new injury worries from the dramatic win over Leicester in their playoff semifinal. The Italian opted for Daniel Pudil over Matt Briggs in defense, while Deeney again partnered Player of the Year Matej Vydra in attack.
The magnitude of the occassion contributed to a very tentative first half. Between them, both Palace and Watford only managed a single meaningful shot in the entire first period.
Vydra was the player who had the effort after half an hour of probing at Wembley. The Czech striker, on loan from Udinese, had his effort from 20 yards blocked by Damien Delaney after fine approach play from Almen Abdi and Deeney.
Zaha, who will head to Manchester United next season, provided the occasional exciting run without ever really threatening to score in a half where defenders had their way.
Deeny and Wilbraham both had efforts blocked for their sides early in the second half as some pockets of space began to open up in either backline. The Hornets were then enjoying a good spell of pressure when suddenly Palace sprung a counterattack that should have resulted in the opening goal near the hour mark.
Wilbraham was played clear through on goal but he elected to cut back on to his left foot inside the box, perhaps due to a lack of pace, allowing Almunia to rush off his line and block the shot.
Watford had the Spanish goalkeeper to thank for keeping the score level again moments later as he denied Stuart O'Keefe and Wilbraham, once more, within the space of a few minutes with two fantastic reaction saves from close range.
A final gilt-edged chance once again fell to the wasteful Wilbraham. Zaha cut in from the right flank to thread a clever ball into the striker but he was kept out by Almunia for the third time. The former Arsenal goalkeeper got down low to make another impressive save using his feet.
An audacious overhead kick and a shot dragged wide from range, both from Deeney, were the best Watford could manage before the referee signalled the end of normal time.
Speroni prevented what looked like a certain goal three minutes into extra time. Deeney peeled off his defender at the back post to gather Abdi's cross but before he could muster a shot the Palace goalkeeper pounced at his feet and vitally got a strong arm to the ball.
The breakthrough finally came at the end of the first period of extra time, as Cassetti hauled down Zaha in the area, awarding Palace a penalty and an opportunity to go ahead.
Phillips, a former Watford striker, made no mistake in dispatching the spot kick. Using his experience to remain cool, Phillips fired the ball into the top corner past Almunia, sending the Eagles' supporters into raptures.
The Hornets huffed and puffed in the second period of extra-time but couldn't quite fashion the chance needed to grab an equalizer. Joel Ward's goal-line clearance, his second in five minutes, with seconds remaining sealed the Eagles promotion, as the club joined Cardiff City and Hull City in going up, and Selhurst Park will host Premier League football for the first time since the 2004-05 season.
Crystal Palace will once again ply its trade in the Premier League after Kevin Phillips' extra-time penalty saw off Watford 1-0 in the Championship playoff final.
After a forgetful first half, Crystal Palace put Watford's defense to the test in the second period with Manuel Almunia pulling off a string of impressive saves to take the game into extra time.
Julian Speroni remarkably denied Troy Deeney the chance to grab the lead during an energy-sapping extra 30 minutes before Marco Cassetti hung out a tired leg, bringing down Wilfried Zaha and allowing Phillips to cooly dispatch the 120 million-pound penalty, sparking euphoric scenes among the Palace supporters at Wembley Stadium.
Zaha overcame an ankle knock to make Ian Holloway's starting lineup, but Palace arrived at Wembley without their topscorer Glenn Murray, who suffered a cruciate ligament injury prior to the playoffs. Aaron Wilbraham led the attack with veteran frontman Phillips starting on the bench.
Gianfranco Zola had no new injury worries from the dramatic win over Leicester in their playoff semifinal. The Italian opted for Daniel Pudil over Matt Briggs in defense, while Deeney again partnered Player of the Year Matej Vydra in attack.
The magnitude of the occassion contributed to a very tentative first half. Between them, both Palace and Watford only managed a single meaningful shot in the entire first period.
Vydra was the player who had the effort after half an hour of probing at Wembley. The Czech striker, on loan from Udinese, had his effort from 20 yards blocked by Damien Delaney after fine approach play from Almen Abdi and Deeney.
Zaha, who will head to Manchester United next season, provided the occasional exciting run without ever really threatening to score in a half where defenders had their way.
Deeny and Wilbraham both had efforts blocked for their sides early in the second half as some pockets of space began to open up in either backline. The Hornets were then enjoying a good spell of pressure when suddenly Palace sprung a counterattack that should have resulted in the opening goal near the hour mark.
Wilbraham was played clear through on goal but he elected to cut back on to his left foot inside the box, perhaps due to a lack of pace, allowing Almunia to rush off his line and block the shot.
Watford had the Spanish goalkeeper to thank for keeping the score level again moments later as he denied Stuart O'Keefe and Wilbraham, once more, within the space of a few minutes with two fantastic reaction saves from close range.
A final gilt-edged chance once again fell to the wasteful Wilbraham. Zaha cut in from the right flank to thread a clever ball into the striker but he was kept out by Almunia for the third time. The former Arsenal goalkeeper got down low to make another impressive save using his feet.
An audacious overhead kick and a shot dragged wide from range, both from Deeney, were the best Watford could manage before the referee signalled the end of normal time.
Speroni prevented what looked like a certain goal three minutes into extra time. Deeney peeled off his defender at the back post to gather Abdi's cross but before he could muster a shot the Palace goalkeeper pounced at his feet and vitally got a strong arm to the ball.
The breakthrough finally came at the end of the first period of extra time, as Cassetti hauled down Zaha in the area, awarding Palace a penalty and an opportunity to go ahead.
Phillips, a former Watford striker, made no mistake in dispatching the spot kick. Using his experience to remain cool, Phillips fired the ball into the top corner past Almunia, sending the Eagles' supporters into raptures.
The Hornets huffed and puffed in the second period of extra-time but couldn't quite fashion the chance needed to grab an equalizer. Joel Ward's goal-line clearance, his second in five minutes, with seconds remaining sealed the Eagles promotion, as the club joined Cardiff City and Hull City in going up, and Selhurst Park will host Premier League football for the first time since the 2004-05 season.
Diego Lopez: Mourinho will be a great loss for Real Madrid
The Spanish goalkeeper believes the club will feel the void left by the departing manager and insists he will remain fighting for his place with Los Blancos. Jose Mourinho will be a "great loss" to the club once he leaves following the end of the Spanish league season, insists Real Madrid goalkeeper Diego Lopez.
Lopez was signed by Mourinho from Sevilla in January following Iker Casillas' hand injury, and he continued to be Los Blancos' No. 1 despite Casilllas' return to fitness, which caused reports of unrest in the Madrid camp. Nevertheless, Lopez believes Mourinho will be missed once he departs, with widespread reports linking him to a return to Chelsea.
“He will be a great loss to Madrid,” Lopez told reporters. “Mourinho is a great coach and he has done big things for my career.
With Mourinho headed elsewhere this summer, there is a likelihood of Casillas regaining the No. 1 spot, but that will not deter Lopez from remaining with the club.
"I think that competition between goalkeepers is positive and I’ve always tried to do things as well as possible," Lopez said. "I’ve already said that every minute at Real Madrid is golden, and that’s what I want to do – take advantage of every opportunity I have to play.”
The Spanish goalkeeper believes the club will feel the void left by the departing manager and insists he will remain fighting for his place with Los Blancos. Jose Mourinho will be a "great loss" to the club once he leaves following the end of the Spanish league season, insists Real Madrid goalkeeper Diego Lopez.
Lopez was signed by Mourinho from Sevilla in January following Iker Casillas' hand injury, and he continued to be Los Blancos' No. 1 despite Casilllas' return to fitness, which caused reports of unrest in the Madrid camp. Nevertheless, Lopez believes Mourinho will be missed once he departs, with widespread reports linking him to a return to Chelsea.
“He will be a great loss to Madrid,” Lopez told reporters. “Mourinho is a great coach and he has done big things for my career.
With Mourinho headed elsewhere this summer, there is a likelihood of Casillas regaining the No. 1 spot, but that will not deter Lopez from remaining with the club.
"I think that competition between goalkeepers is positive and I’ve always tried to do things as well as possible," Lopez said. "I’ve already said that every minute at Real Madrid is golden, and that’s what I want to do – take advantage of every opportunity I have to play.”
Napoli names Rafa Benitez new manager
The Spaniard, who has had a seven-month stint at Chelsea, was announced as the new coach of the Partenopei on Monday.Napoli has announced the signing of former interim Chelsea boss Rafa Benitez to fill the vacancy left behind by departed manager Walter Mazzarri.
"Rafa Benitez is the new coach of Napoli. An agreement was signed [on Monday] in London," the club wrote in an official statement on its website. "Napoli are happy to welcome a coach so prestigious to our own family."
Benitez won the Europa League this season with Chelsea and stepped in for Roberto Di Matteo to guide the Blues to a Champions League place. He is set to take over for Mazzarri, who left the Partenopei to join Inter Milan after coach Andrea Stramaccioni was sacked for a disappointing ninth-place finish this term.
Benitez' last two games in charge of Chelsea came in the United States, during a pair of high-scoring friendly losses to Manchester City in St. Louis and New York City.
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis revealed via Twitter that he was delighted to get the 53-year-old.
"Rafa Benitez is the new coach of Napoli. A man of great international experience. A leader," De Laurentiis wrote.
The Spaniard has coached in Italy before, but had a rather unsuccessful spell at Inter lasting just six months in the job after being successor to Jose Mourinho's treble-winning side.
The Spaniard, who has had a seven-month stint at Chelsea, was announced as the new coach of the Partenopei on Monday.Napoli has announced the signing of former interim Chelsea boss Rafa Benitez to fill the vacancy left behind by departed manager Walter Mazzarri.
"Rafa Benitez is the new coach of Napoli. An agreement was signed [on Monday] in London," the club wrote in an official statement on its website. "Napoli are happy to welcome a coach so prestigious to our own family."
Benitez won the Europa League this season with Chelsea and stepped in for Roberto Di Matteo to guide the Blues to a Champions League place. He is set to take over for Mazzarri, who left the Partenopei to join Inter Milan after coach Andrea Stramaccioni was sacked for a disappointing ninth-place finish this term.
Benitez' last two games in charge of Chelsea came in the United States, during a pair of high-scoring friendly losses to Manchester City in St. Louis and New York City.
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis revealed via Twitter that he was delighted to get the 53-year-old.
"Rafa Benitez is the new coach of Napoli. A man of great international experience. A leader," De Laurentiis wrote.
The Spaniard has coached in Italy before, but had a rather unsuccessful spell at Inter lasting just six months in the job after being successor to Jose Mourinho's treble-winning side.
Falcao: Atletico Madrid has been like a dream
The Colombian has spent two years at the Vicente Calderon and has enjoyed every minute of his stay in the Spanish capital but refused to confirm his pending exit.Radamel Falcao said that his stay at Atletico Madrid since joining Porto has been "like a dream."
The Colombia forward is reportedly set to complete a 60 million euro switch to Monaco this summer, having helped the capital club win the Europa League, the European Super Cup and the Copa del Rey in a two-year spell. He played his last home game of the season at Estadio Vicente Calderon Sunday, going the distance in a 0-0 draw with Mallorca and has one more game remaining this season, on the road at Real Zaragoza.
"I'm very grateful for these two years at Atletico Madrid," the 27-year-old Falcao told W Radio. "I never expected to win three titles in so short time, this has been like a dream. Yesterday I lived a very emotional moment I had never lived before with the fans and a club.
"I will never forget it and I don't know how to give them thanks."
Falcao, whose 28 league goals trail just Lionel Messi's 46 and Cristiano Ronaldo's 34, refused to confirm that he would leave the club in the summer, saying: "Right now, I can't talk about my future, there will be time later."
Colombia is set to play against Messi' Argentina on June 8 as its bid to qualify for the World Cup continues, and the forward is confident his nation can prevail in the clash.
"Colombia have a great team with the capability to play in any field, any time, against any rival, but we need to be discreet and think about what can we do against Argentina," Falcao said.
The Colombian has spent two years at the Vicente Calderon and has enjoyed every minute of his stay in the Spanish capital but refused to confirm his pending exit.Radamel Falcao said that his stay at Atletico Madrid since joining Porto has been "like a dream."
The Colombia forward is reportedly set to complete a 60 million euro switch to Monaco this summer, having helped the capital club win the Europa League, the European Super Cup and the Copa del Rey in a two-year spell. He played his last home game of the season at Estadio Vicente Calderon Sunday, going the distance in a 0-0 draw with Mallorca and has one more game remaining this season, on the road at Real Zaragoza.
"I'm very grateful for these two years at Atletico Madrid," the 27-year-old Falcao told W Radio. "I never expected to win three titles in so short time, this has been like a dream. Yesterday I lived a very emotional moment I had never lived before with the fans and a club.
"I will never forget it and I don't know how to give them thanks."
Falcao, whose 28 league goals trail just Lionel Messi's 46 and Cristiano Ronaldo's 34, refused to confirm that he would leave the club in the summer, saying: "Right now, I can't talk about my future, there will be time later."
Colombia is set to play against Messi' Argentina on June 8 as its bid to qualify for the World Cup continues, and the forward is confident his nation can prevail in the clash.
"Colombia have a great team with the capability to play in any field, any time, against any rival, but we need to be discreet and think about what can we do against Argentina," Falcao said.
Muller: Ballon d'Or should go to a Bayern Munich player
After winning the Bundesliga and the Champions League, the Bavarian forward is adamant the prestigious prize should be awarded to a Roten player this year.
http://www.goal.com/en/teams/germany/148/fc-bayern-münchenThomas Muller is convinced that the next Ballon d'Or trophy should be lifted by a Bayern Munich player.
The Bavarians dominated this season's Bundesliga winning it by 25 points, and they also defeated rival Borussia Dortmund 2-1 in the final of the Champions League on Saturday.
They now have the chance to secure a historic treble if they beat Stuttgart in the DFB Pokal final in Berlin this coming Saturday, which Muller believes is enough for a Roten player to merit the prestigious individual honor.
"Several of our players certainly would deserve it," the 23-year-old Muller told Sport Bild. "Actually, a Bayern Munich player has to be voted for the Ballon d'Or next."
The last four of the FIFA-awarded trophies have went to Barcelona's Lionel Messi, and the last German to win the award was current Bayern sporting director Matthias Sammer, playing for Dortmund back in 1996.
After winning the Bundesliga and the Champions League, the Bavarian forward is adamant the prestigious prize should be awarded to a Roten player this year.
http://www.goal.com/en/teams/germany/148/fc-bayern-münchenThomas Muller is convinced that the next Ballon d'Or trophy should be lifted by a Bayern Munich player.
The Bavarians dominated this season's Bundesliga winning it by 25 points, and they also defeated rival Borussia Dortmund 2-1 in the final of the Champions League on Saturday.
They now have the chance to secure a historic treble if they beat Stuttgart in the DFB Pokal final in Berlin this coming Saturday, which Muller believes is enough for a Roten player to merit the prestigious individual honor.
"Several of our players certainly would deserve it," the 23-year-old Muller told Sport Bild. "Actually, a Bayern Munich player has to be voted for the Ballon d'Or next."
The last four of the FIFA-awarded trophies have went to Barcelona's Lionel Messi, and the last German to win the award was current Bayern sporting director Matthias Sammer, playing for Dortmund back in 1996.
The Spain boss has reiterated his confidence in the Real Madrid goalkeeper ahead of the tournament, which kicks off in just over two weeks.Vicente del Bosque has announced that Iker Casillas is ready to play for Spain during the Confederations Cup.
The Real Madrid skipper has not played since suffering a hand injury back in January, forcing the capital club to sign Diego Lopez, who has since kept his place in the first team.However, Del Bosque has elected to keep faith in his captain ahead of the former Villarreal man.
“We are certain he is in good form. We spoke in France and since then I haven’t spoken to him, but I’m sure he is fine. He is one of our own," the 62-year-old said at a press conference. “We deal with some extraordinary players. We have three goalkeepers and I can’t bring any more, but we could have brought another four or five. Diego has had a superb season but we trust in Pepe Reina, Iker and Victor Valdes.
“I've said before that it’s impossible to include every player that deserves a place. Fabregas, Villa, Torres and Soldado are our four strikers. You could just as easily ask why we didn't include [Imanol] Agirretxe, that lad from Betis [Ruben Castro], Iago Aspas, Michu.”
Del Bosque went on to say that he is looking forward to the tournament, which kicks off on June 15.“It’s a unique tournament with its own merits," he said. "There are not only four World champions, there are also the Olympic champions Mexico and champions of Africa, Nigeria."We will try and make sure we compete at the highest level. Japan are one of the teams that have progressed a lot and any of the teams could be uncomfortable opponents.”
Raul Albiol: I wish Mourinho well
The Real Madrid defender has expressed his gratitude to the departing coach and stressed that he had no rift with the Portuguese.Raul Albiol has thanked Jose Mourinho for his contributions to Real Madrid and wished the coach the best wherever he goes.The Portuguese will leave the Spanish capital at the end of the season after a controversial three-year reign, which saw him reportedly fall out with a host of players.
"Mourinho's last game is on Saturday and I hope he has success wherever he goes," the former Valencia man told AS. "It will always be necessary to keep the things that I have learned from him and I for my part do not have any problem with him."Each coach has their preferences and tastes but they must be respected. I wish him well."Albiol has been used sparingly during his time at the Bernabeu but insists that he is not looking to leave the club.
"I am very happy at Real Madrid," the 27-year-old continued. "I have a contract here, I am grateful to everyone and like any player, I want to be at Real Madrid. Now there will be many movements of coaches but you have to wait to see what happens."I am a person who likes to keep things positive and I'll take what I've learned in the past three years with Mourinho. I've gone through good times and bad times. This season has not been easy. We haven't won any titles and we're all disappointed. We always want to win titles."
Real Madrid wraps up its season, and Mourinho's reign at the club, by hosting Osasuna on Saturday.
The Real Madrid defender has expressed his gratitude to the departing coach and stressed that he had no rift with the Portuguese.Raul Albiol has thanked Jose Mourinho for his contributions to Real Madrid and wished the coach the best wherever he goes.The Portuguese will leave the Spanish capital at the end of the season after a controversial three-year reign, which saw him reportedly fall out with a host of players.
"Mourinho's last game is on Saturday and I hope he has success wherever he goes," the former Valencia man told AS. "It will always be necessary to keep the things that I have learned from him and I for my part do not have any problem with him."Each coach has their preferences and tastes but they must be respected. I wish him well."Albiol has been used sparingly during his time at the Bernabeu but insists that he is not looking to leave the club.
"I am very happy at Real Madrid," the 27-year-old continued. "I have a contract here, I am grateful to everyone and like any player, I want to be at Real Madrid. Now there will be many movements of coaches but you have to wait to see what happens."I am a person who likes to keep things positive and I'll take what I've learned in the past three years with Mourinho. I've gone through good times and bad times. This season has not been easy. We haven't won any titles and we're all disappointed. We always want to win titles."
Real Madrid wraps up its season, and Mourinho's reign at the club, by hosting Osasuna on Saturday.
Ramos: Mourinho not leaving Madrid because of pressure
The Spaniard has nothing but praise for his boss and says his Santiago Bernabeu exit had nothing do with failing to reach expectations.Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos feels Jose Mourinho is "one of the best coaches in the world" and does not believe he left the club because of high pressure levels.
The Portuguese will leave the club at the end of the season following three years in the Spanish capital but will finish his final campaign without silverware.
Ramos believes the decision was a personal one and had nothing to do with the added expectation that comes with working for a big club likeMadrid.
"I think Mourinho has a lot of experience in the world of football," 27-year-old told Sport. "I do not think pressure was a reason for him to make the decision to leave Real Madrid. Everyone chooses his future and is free to take their best route.
"I've always had good words for him because on a personal level, I have said and will continue to say, he's one of the best coaches in the world. He knows how to draw and squeeze the most out of each player and that is a virtue that he has transmitted to us from day one."
The Spaniard has nothing but praise for his boss and says his Santiago Bernabeu exit had nothing do with failing to reach expectations.Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos feels Jose Mourinho is "one of the best coaches in the world" and does not believe he left the club because of high pressure levels.
The Portuguese will leave the club at the end of the season following three years in the Spanish capital but will finish his final campaign without silverware.
Ramos believes the decision was a personal one and had nothing to do with the added expectation that comes with working for a big club likeMadrid.
"I think Mourinho has a lot of experience in the world of football," 27-year-old told Sport. "I do not think pressure was a reason for him to make the decision to leave Real Madrid. Everyone chooses his future and is free to take their best route.
"I've always had good words for him because on a personal level, I have said and will continue to say, he's one of the best coaches in the world. He knows how to draw and squeeze the most out of each player and that is a virtue that he has transmitted to us from day one."
Vicente del Bosque has announced his team for this summer's tournament as la Roja aim to better their third-place finish in 2009.Spain coach Vicente del Bosque has included Iker Casillas and Fernando Torres in his 26-man provisional squad for this summer's Confederations Cup.
The Real Madrid goalkeeper earns his first call up since recovering from a hand injury, but Del Bosque feels Casillas remains a key figure for Spain regardless of his lack of match action after being usurped by Diego Lopez at club level.
Torres, meanwhile, makes his comeback for the national side after impressing for Chelsea in the past few months, with his goal in the 2-1 Europa League final win over Benfica the highlight of his season.
Furthermore, Bayern Munich midfielder Javi Martinez also returns after missing out on the last Spain squad, while Benat and Javi Garcia have made the cut as well.
David de Gea, Isco and Thiago Alcantara were called up for the Under-21 side taking part in the European Championships in Israel this summer and are therefore unavailable.
Spain meets Uruguay, Tahiti and Nigeria at the Confederations Cup.
Cavani coy on Napoli future amid Manchester City interest
The Uruguay international is continually being linked with a summer move, but has stated that he's focused on his current club for now.Edinson Cavani has insisted that he is not thinking about a potential summer move away from Napoli amid strong interest from Manchester City.
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis revealed last week that the Serie A outfit is in talks with City over Cavani, while the Uruguay international's father stated at the weekend that the striker's future could lie in Spain.
Nevertheless, the 26-year-old has made it clear that he's focused on his current club for the time being.
"I'm in Uruguay at the moment to recharge my batteries for next season and I am only thinking about Napoli for now," Cavani told Ovacion Digital.
"If I were to leave the club we'd have to sit down with the president to discuss my valuation. I'm feeling well at Napoli, though. I have grown here and have matured a lot."
Cavani has a contract with Napoli until June 2017, but has a 63 million euro exit clause in his deal.
The Uruguay international is continually being linked with a summer move, but has stated that he's focused on his current club for now.Edinson Cavani has insisted that he is not thinking about a potential summer move away from Napoli amid strong interest from Manchester City.
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis revealed last week that the Serie A outfit is in talks with City over Cavani, while the Uruguay international's father stated at the weekend that the striker's future could lie in Spain.
Nevertheless, the 26-year-old has made it clear that he's focused on his current club for the time being.
"I'm in Uruguay at the moment to recharge my batteries for next season and I am only thinking about Napoli for now," Cavani told Ovacion Digital.
"If I were to leave the club we'd have to sit down with the president to discuss my valuation. I'm feeling well at Napoli, though. I have grown here and have matured a lot."
Cavani has a contract with Napoli until June 2017, but has a 63 million euro exit clause in his deal.
Agent: Lewandowski will join Bayern this summer
The Poland international's representative has revealed that his client will follow Mario Gotze to the Champions League winner ahead of next season.Cezary Kucharski, one of Robert Lewandowski's agents, says that the striker will leave Borussia Dortmund for Bayern Munich in the summer transfer window.
The Poland international has long been linked with a move to the Champions League winner and his representative has made it clear that the deal could be completed shortly.
"Robert will join Bayern this summer. There is no point in pretending that he will not move to Bayern. Robert wants to leave and that is what will happen," Kucharski told TVN24.
"It is a matter of time. It could be a done deal within a week or within two to three weeks. We are waiting for a signal from the club. We are working on this deal. Robert needs a new challenge. He needs other people around him, a new coach and new motivation."
Maik Barthel, Lewandowski's other agent, claimed earlier this season that the 24-year-old has already agreed terms with another club, prompting Bayern to issue a statement denying that the team had reached an agreement with the striker back in April.
Nevertheless, Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes suggested at the weekend that Lewandowski is destined to follow in the footsteps of Mario Gotze and leave BVB for the Allianz Arena side.
Lewandowski has a contract with Dortmund until June 2014, yet he's widely expected to leave the club this summer following his refusal to sign a new deal.
He had also caught the attention of clubs such as Juventus, Manchester United and Real Madrid, but his next destination seems to be Munich following Kucharski's latest comments.
The Poland international's representative has revealed that his client will follow Mario Gotze to the Champions League winner ahead of next season.Cezary Kucharski, one of Robert Lewandowski's agents, says that the striker will leave Borussia Dortmund for Bayern Munich in the summer transfer window.
The Poland international has long been linked with a move to the Champions League winner and his representative has made it clear that the deal could be completed shortly.
"Robert will join Bayern this summer. There is no point in pretending that he will not move to Bayern. Robert wants to leave and that is what will happen," Kucharski told TVN24.
"It is a matter of time. It could be a done deal within a week or within two to three weeks. We are waiting for a signal from the club. We are working on this deal. Robert needs a new challenge. He needs other people around him, a new coach and new motivation."
Maik Barthel, Lewandowski's other agent, claimed earlier this season that the 24-year-old has already agreed terms with another club, prompting Bayern to issue a statement denying that the team had reached an agreement with the striker back in April.
Nevertheless, Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes suggested at the weekend that Lewandowski is destined to follow in the footsteps of Mario Gotze and leave BVB for the Allianz Arena side.
Lewandowski has a contract with Dortmund until June 2014, yet he's widely expected to leave the club this summer following his refusal to sign a new deal.
He had also caught the attention of clubs such as Juventus, Manchester United and Real Madrid, but his next destination seems to be Munich following Kucharski's latest comments.
Bayern Munich rules out Robben exit
The European champion has stressed that there's no truth in the rumors linking the Dutchman with a move away from the club.Bayern Munich sporting director Matthias Sammer has insisted that the Champions League winner has no intention of selling Arjen Robben in the summer transfer window.
The winger has been linked with a move away from FCB ever since the club announced Pep Guardiola as the new head coach, but the team has dismissed speculation linking him with the likes of Juventus and Galatasaray after he struck the winner in the Champions League final.
"A lot of nonsense has been written in Germany this year and the stories about Robben are part of it," Sammer was quoted as saying by De Telegraaf. "He has a contract for two more years and will still be a Bayern player next season. That is a certainty."
Robben played a key role in Saturday's Wembley win over Borussia Dortmund, as he set up Mario Mandzukic for the opener before finding the net himself in the dying minutes of the game to make it 2-1, and Sammer had nothing but praise for the winger.
"Arjen is a big player and this was a huge moment for his career. You need a major international title in order to be a real champion," he said. "Bayern have Arjen to thank for this title. He's had plenty of setbacks throughout his career, but has proven to be a real champion."
Robben joined Bayern from Real Madrid in the summer of 2009 and has since become a key figure at the Bavarians.
The European champion has stressed that there's no truth in the rumors linking the Dutchman with a move away from the club.Bayern Munich sporting director Matthias Sammer has insisted that the Champions League winner has no intention of selling Arjen Robben in the summer transfer window.
The winger has been linked with a move away from FCB ever since the club announced Pep Guardiola as the new head coach, but the team has dismissed speculation linking him with the likes of Juventus and Galatasaray after he struck the winner in the Champions League final.
"A lot of nonsense has been written in Germany this year and the stories about Robben are part of it," Sammer was quoted as saying by De Telegraaf. "He has a contract for two more years and will still be a Bayern player next season. That is a certainty."
Robben played a key role in Saturday's Wembley win over Borussia Dortmund, as he set up Mario Mandzukic for the opener before finding the net himself in the dying minutes of the game to make it 2-1, and Sammer had nothing but praise for the winger.
"Arjen is a big player and this was a huge moment for his career. You need a major international title in order to be a real champion," he said. "Bayern have Arjen to thank for this title. He's had plenty of setbacks throughout his career, but has proven to be a real champion."
Robben joined Bayern from Real Madrid in the summer of 2009 and has since become a key figure at the Bavarians.
Martinez leaves Wigan, set for Everton
Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has flown home from a family break in his native Spain to tell chairman Dave Whelan that he wishes to leave the club.Martinez gave Whelan a final answer on his future in a lunchtime meeting on Tuesday.
A decision had been expected after an initial meeting last Thursday, but the Latics boss instead asked for the Bank Holiday weekend to think things over as he went away for a short holiday.However, Whelan revealed that Martinez had decided to leave the club after Tuesday's meeting.
"Roberto felt it was in the best interests of him and the club for him to go," Whelan told Wigan Today.He added to BBC Sport: "He wanted permission to move so I've given that. He feels he's not the man to lead us back into the Premier League. "I've got to accept what he feels. He loves Wigan and the fans. We have to move on now and want applications for the job."
Martinez is a leading candidate for the manager's job at Goodison Park, left vacant after David Moyes' departure to take charge at Manchester United.And according to Whelan, Everton have made an official approach to Wigan for his services.
"Everton asked for permission to speak to Roberto last Thursday. I told them to wait until I had spoken to Roberto today," he said. "Roberto still had 12 months remaining on his contract and that will need buying out."Whelan was keen to keep hold of his manager, who guided the Latics to FA Cup success for the first time in their history as they beat Manchester City 1-0 at Wembley on May 11.
The Spaniard had asked the chairman to outline his plans for Wigan's new training ground and youth development policy, suggesting that he would be prepared to stay.
However, Martinez ultimately decided against following the club down into the Championship, having been unable to steer them clear of relegation.
Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has flown home from a family break in his native Spain to tell chairman Dave Whelan that he wishes to leave the club.Martinez gave Whelan a final answer on his future in a lunchtime meeting on Tuesday.
A decision had been expected after an initial meeting last Thursday, but the Latics boss instead asked for the Bank Holiday weekend to think things over as he went away for a short holiday.However, Whelan revealed that Martinez had decided to leave the club after Tuesday's meeting.
"Roberto felt it was in the best interests of him and the club for him to go," Whelan told Wigan Today.He added to BBC Sport: "He wanted permission to move so I've given that. He feels he's not the man to lead us back into the Premier League. "I've got to accept what he feels. He loves Wigan and the fans. We have to move on now and want applications for the job."
Martinez is a leading candidate for the manager's job at Goodison Park, left vacant after David Moyes' departure to take charge at Manchester United.And according to Whelan, Everton have made an official approach to Wigan for his services.
"Everton asked for permission to speak to Roberto last Thursday. I told them to wait until I had spoken to Roberto today," he said. "Roberto still had 12 months remaining on his contract and that will need buying out."Whelan was keen to keep hold of his manager, who guided the Latics to FA Cup success for the first time in their history as they beat Manchester City 1-0 at Wembley on May 11.
The Spaniard had asked the chairman to outline his plans for Wigan's new training ground and youth development policy, suggesting that he would be prepared to stay.
However, Martinez ultimately decided against following the club down into the Championship, having been unable to steer them clear of relegation.
Zaha a no-go for loan at Crystal Palace
Following Crystal Palace's promotion to the Premier League, Ian Holloway has shown the optimism of an Englishman wearing shorts in May. Having defeated Watford 1-0 in the Championship playoff final at Wembley, he was quick to wonder whether Manchester United might consider letting them keep Wilfried Zaha on loan next season. Given the problems that Manchester United have endured with their wide men this year, it should have been possible to hear cacophonous laughter all the way from Old Trafford.
Zaha, Crystal Palace's star player on Monday and for the bulk of their campaign, is vital to Manchester United's long-term aspirations. He is joining a team where width is sorely needed; due to the poor or indifferent form of Ashley Young, Nani and Antonia Valencia, Sir Alex Ferguson was often forced to deploy a narrow diamond formation. Both Chelsea and Manchester United are due to improve their squad this summer, and Zaha, with his uniquely penetrative running and growing goal threat, must thus form part of his new team's title defence.
In a game where midfields are so often congested with five players, and where there is precious little space for passing between the lines, the importance of an excellent winger cannot be understated. Angel di Maria was Real Madrid's leading provider of assists in last season's UEFA Champions League. Bayern Munich's Arjen Robben was - eventually - the decisive figure in the final of this year's European showpiece. Porto's James Rodriguez, a long-time target of United's, was this summer the subject of a successful bid of £38.5 million from Monaco.
Zaha's qualities are thrown into sharp focus by such a clamour. He can operate anywhere across the forward line if needed, so would be equally happy in a 4-4-2 or a 4-2-3-1. Crucially, his skill and acceleration will help Manchester United to win the closest of contests, particularly those where they may not deserve to prevail. (That latter quality, after all, is the preserve of champions.) He also stands to learn a great deal from training regularly with players of the pedigree of, most notably, Robin van Persie and Rio Ferdinand, and will be a willing beneficiary of David Moyes' avowed focus on developing young talent.
On an unrelated note - given that Manchester United and England have often been at loggerheads - there is also the matter of Zaha's importance to the national team. England's qualifying campaign for the World Cup is proving sadly if typically problematic, and a Premier League season for the defending champions can be no better preparation for Zaha's role in that effort.
Zaha also represents one of the very few Englishmen who has the ability to beat his man consistently, and as such should be given the best possible platform for his talent as soon as possible.
Though some might feel next summer is a tournament too soon for him to make an impact, the England squad looks somewhat workmanlike without flair such as his sprinkled throughout it. This is why, should Crystal Palace make a polite enquiry for Zaha's services next season, the refusal from Old Trafford should be equally polite, and equally firm.
Following Crystal Palace's promotion to the Premier League, Ian Holloway has shown the optimism of an Englishman wearing shorts in May. Having defeated Watford 1-0 in the Championship playoff final at Wembley, he was quick to wonder whether Manchester United might consider letting them keep Wilfried Zaha on loan next season. Given the problems that Manchester United have endured with their wide men this year, it should have been possible to hear cacophonous laughter all the way from Old Trafford.
Zaha, Crystal Palace's star player on Monday and for the bulk of their campaign, is vital to Manchester United's long-term aspirations. He is joining a team where width is sorely needed; due to the poor or indifferent form of Ashley Young, Nani and Antonia Valencia, Sir Alex Ferguson was often forced to deploy a narrow diamond formation. Both Chelsea and Manchester United are due to improve their squad this summer, and Zaha, with his uniquely penetrative running and growing goal threat, must thus form part of his new team's title defence.
In a game where midfields are so often congested with five players, and where there is precious little space for passing between the lines, the importance of an excellent winger cannot be understated. Angel di Maria was Real Madrid's leading provider of assists in last season's UEFA Champions League. Bayern Munich's Arjen Robben was - eventually - the decisive figure in the final of this year's European showpiece. Porto's James Rodriguez, a long-time target of United's, was this summer the subject of a successful bid of £38.5 million from Monaco.
Zaha's qualities are thrown into sharp focus by such a clamour. He can operate anywhere across the forward line if needed, so would be equally happy in a 4-4-2 or a 4-2-3-1. Crucially, his skill and acceleration will help Manchester United to win the closest of contests, particularly those where they may not deserve to prevail. (That latter quality, after all, is the preserve of champions.) He also stands to learn a great deal from training regularly with players of the pedigree of, most notably, Robin van Persie and Rio Ferdinand, and will be a willing beneficiary of David Moyes' avowed focus on developing young talent.
On an unrelated note - given that Manchester United and England have often been at loggerheads - there is also the matter of Zaha's importance to the national team. England's qualifying campaign for the World Cup is proving sadly if typically problematic, and a Premier League season for the defending champions can be no better preparation for Zaha's role in that effort.
Zaha also represents one of the very few Englishmen who has the ability to beat his man consistently, and as such should be given the best possible platform for his talent as soon as possible.
Though some might feel next summer is a tournament too soon for him to make an impact, the England squad looks somewhat workmanlike without flair such as his sprinkled throughout it. This is why, should Crystal Palace make a polite enquiry for Zaha's services next season, the refusal from Old Trafford should be equally polite, and equally firm.
Zaha a no-go for loan at Crystal Palace
Following Crystal Palace's promotion to the Premier League, Ian Holloway has shown the optimism of an Englishman wearing shorts in May. Having defeated Watford 1-0 in the Championship playoff final at Wembley, he was quick to wonder whether Manchester United might consider letting them keep Wilfried Zaha on loan next season. Given the problems that Manchester United have endured with their wide men this year, it should have been possible to hear cacophonous laughter all the way from Old Trafford.
Zaha, Crystal Palace's star player on Monday and for the bulk of their campaign, is vital to Manchester United's long-term aspirations. He is joining a team where width is sorely needed; due to the poor or indifferent form of Ashley Young, Nani and Antonia Valencia, Sir Alex Ferguson was often forced to deploy a narrow diamond formation. Both Chelsea and Manchester United are due to improve their squad this summer, and Zaha, with his uniquely penetrative running and growing goal threat, must thus form part of his new team's title defence.
In a game where midfields are so often congested with five players, and where there is precious little space for passing between the lines, the importance of an excellent winger cannot be understated. Angel di Maria was Real Madrid's leading provider of assists in last season's UEFA Champions League. Bayern Munich's Arjen Robben was - eventually - the decisive figure in the final of this year's European showpiece. Porto's James Rodriguez, a long-time target of United's, was this summer the subject of a successful bid of £38.5 million from Monaco.
Zaha's qualities are thrown into sharp focus by such a clamour. He can operate anywhere across the forward line if needed, so would be equally happy in a 4-4-2 or a 4-2-3-1. Crucially, his skill and acceleration will help Manchester United to win the closest of contests, particularly those where they may not deserve to prevail. (That latter quality, after all, is the preserve of champions.) He also stands to learn a great deal from training regularly with players of the pedigree of, most notably, Robin van Persie and Rio Ferdinand, and will be a willing beneficiary of David Moyes' avowed focus on developing young talent.
On an unrelated note - given that Manchester United and England have often been at loggerheads - there is also the matter of Zaha's importance to the national team. England's qualifying campaign for the World Cup is proving sadly if typically problematic, and a Premier League season for the defending champions can be no better preparation for Zaha's role in that effort.
Zaha also represents one of the very few Englishmen who has the ability to beat his man consistently, and as such should be given the best possible platform for his talent as soon as possible.
Though some might feel next summer is a tournament too soon for him to make an impact, the England squad looks somewhat workmanlike without flair such as his sprinkled throughout it. This is why, should Crystal Palace make a polite enquiry for Zaha's services next season, the refusal from Old Trafford should be equally polite, and equally firm.
Following Crystal Palace's promotion to the Premier League, Ian Holloway has shown the optimism of an Englishman wearing shorts in May. Having defeated Watford 1-0 in the Championship playoff final at Wembley, he was quick to wonder whether Manchester United might consider letting them keep Wilfried Zaha on loan next season. Given the problems that Manchester United have endured with their wide men this year, it should have been possible to hear cacophonous laughter all the way from Old Trafford.
Zaha, Crystal Palace's star player on Monday and for the bulk of their campaign, is vital to Manchester United's long-term aspirations. He is joining a team where width is sorely needed; due to the poor or indifferent form of Ashley Young, Nani and Antonia Valencia, Sir Alex Ferguson was often forced to deploy a narrow diamond formation. Both Chelsea and Manchester United are due to improve their squad this summer, and Zaha, with his uniquely penetrative running and growing goal threat, must thus form part of his new team's title defence.
In a game where midfields are so often congested with five players, and where there is precious little space for passing between the lines, the importance of an excellent winger cannot be understated. Angel di Maria was Real Madrid's leading provider of assists in last season's UEFA Champions League. Bayern Munich's Arjen Robben was - eventually - the decisive figure in the final of this year's European showpiece. Porto's James Rodriguez, a long-time target of United's, was this summer the subject of a successful bid of £38.5 million from Monaco.
Zaha's qualities are thrown into sharp focus by such a clamour. He can operate anywhere across the forward line if needed, so would be equally happy in a 4-4-2 or a 4-2-3-1. Crucially, his skill and acceleration will help Manchester United to win the closest of contests, particularly those where they may not deserve to prevail. (That latter quality, after all, is the preserve of champions.) He also stands to learn a great deal from training regularly with players of the pedigree of, most notably, Robin van Persie and Rio Ferdinand, and will be a willing beneficiary of David Moyes' avowed focus on developing young talent.
On an unrelated note - given that Manchester United and England have often been at loggerheads - there is also the matter of Zaha's importance to the national team. England's qualifying campaign for the World Cup is proving sadly if typically problematic, and a Premier League season for the defending champions can be no better preparation for Zaha's role in that effort.
Zaha also represents one of the very few Englishmen who has the ability to beat his man consistently, and as such should be given the best possible platform for his talent as soon as possible.
Though some might feel next summer is a tournament too soon for him to make an impact, the England squad looks somewhat workmanlike without flair such as his sprinkled throughout it. This is why, should Crystal Palace make a polite enquiry for Zaha's services next season, the refusal from Old Trafford should be equally polite, and equally firm.
Thiyana condition 1ka anuwanam Zaha ge loan 1ka extend karana 1ka paduwak
Balaporotthu wena deals thama 1kakwath wela nahane
Balaporotthu wena deals thama 1kakwath wela nahane
BVB still awaiting Lewandowski bid
Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp insists Bayern Munich have still yet to make an offer for Robert Lewandowski and says his club intend to put an end to the speculation in the coming days.
Lewandowski has long been linked with a move to the Allianz Arena, and after Bayern beat Dortmund 2-1 in the Champions League final on Saturday, Jupp Heynckes suggested a deal was already in place.Afterwards, one of Lewandowski’s agents, speaking on Polish television, said he expected the transfer to be completed in the next fortnight.
However, Klopp, in a rare interview with German tabloid Bild, has said Dortmund have not yet received an offer for the Poland international, who has a year remaining on his contract.
“As of today, an official Bayern offer does not exist,” he told the newspaper. “I’d still like to think that Robert will play for us next season. We will see to it that we will put an end to the speculation over the next few days.”Klopp said he was not angry with Lewandowski on a personal level and could handle the situation professionally, but the situation had frustrated him.
“The funny thing is everybody’s acting like it’s all done,” he said. “Jupp Heynckes says it, his agents say it – and we have no offer. What’s that all about? How things are turning out now is not fair or nice.”Dortmund, meanwhile, have already begun the process of rebuilding the squad for next season, with Greuther Furth general manager Rouven Schroder confirming BVB have made an offer for Edgar Prib.
The 23-year-old, who can play at left-back or in midfield, would likely provide back-up for Dortmund full-back Marcel Schmelzer.
Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp insists Bayern Munich have still yet to make an offer for Robert Lewandowski and says his club intend to put an end to the speculation in the coming days.
Lewandowski has long been linked with a move to the Allianz Arena, and after Bayern beat Dortmund 2-1 in the Champions League final on Saturday, Jupp Heynckes suggested a deal was already in place.Afterwards, one of Lewandowski’s agents, speaking on Polish television, said he expected the transfer to be completed in the next fortnight.
However, Klopp, in a rare interview with German tabloid Bild, has said Dortmund have not yet received an offer for the Poland international, who has a year remaining on his contract.
“As of today, an official Bayern offer does not exist,” he told the newspaper. “I’d still like to think that Robert will play for us next season. We will see to it that we will put an end to the speculation over the next few days.”Klopp said he was not angry with Lewandowski on a personal level and could handle the situation professionally, but the situation had frustrated him.
“The funny thing is everybody’s acting like it’s all done,” he said. “Jupp Heynckes says it, his agents say it – and we have no offer. What’s that all about? How things are turning out now is not fair or nice.”Dortmund, meanwhile, have already begun the process of rebuilding the squad for next season, with Greuther Furth general manager Rouven Schroder confirming BVB have made an offer for Edgar Prib.
The 23-year-old, who can play at left-back or in midfield, would likely provide back-up for Dortmund full-back Marcel Schmelzer.
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