..::Football II::..

Status
Not open for further replies.

Wolverine GTR

Well-known member
  • Jan 1, 2009
    268,940
    11,592
    113
    ♥♥Ŧhệatrệ Θf Drệamś♥♥
    Galliani hints at Milan move for Tevez

    286333_heroa.jpg


    The Argentine attacker has set his sights on a summer exit and could be plying his trade in Serie A in the 2013-14 campaign AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani has hinted at a move for want-away Manchester City attacker Carlos Tevez this summer.

    The Argentina international is keen to leave the Premier League runner up ahead of the 2013-14 campaign and has caught the attention of clubs such as Liverpool, Monaco and Juventus.

    However, Galliani is confident the 29-year-old would not leave City for Juve and thinks Tevez would even accept a pay cut to join Milan.

    "Tevez would not betray me by going to Juventus," the Rossoneri director told reporters. "I like him because he's a 'bad guy'. He would accept a big paycut to come to us."

    Tevez's current deal with City is due to expire in June 2014 and an offer in the region of 8-10 million euros could be enough to lure him away from the Premier League side.

    Milan was already close to signing the flamboyant attacker in the summer of 2012, but the deal eventually fell through for unknown reasons.
     

    Wolverine GTR

    Well-known member
  • Jan 1, 2009
    268,940
    11,592
    113
    ♥♥Ŧhệatrệ Θf Drệamś♥♥
    Watzke: Lewandowski could leave Dortmund for another club other than Bayern

    286777_heroa.jpg


    The Champions League finalist will not sell its star attacker to its domestic rival, but could still cash in on him if its valuation of the player is met Borussia Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke says Robert Lewandowski could still leave this summer even if they refuse to sell him to Bayern Munich.

    BVB stated at the weekend that Lewandowski will not be allowed to join Bayern, but Watzke has admitted the club could still decide to cash in on the 24-year-old if another team meets its valuation of the attacker.

    "We want to find a good solution for all parties involved. That's why I will not say that he will definitely stay at Dortmund. I can say that he will not move to Bayern Munich in 2013, though," Watzke told Bild.

    He added, "Bayern has contacted us twice by phone in the past four weeks. We only said for legal reasons that we need a formal offer for Lewandowski, but such an offer has not been made so far. A move to Bayern is a closed book.

    "We will discuss everything else with Robert and his agent in the days to come. That's a matter of respect. But our explicit wish remains that Robert plays for Dortmund next season."

    Lewandowski is under contract with BVB until the summer of 2014 and has refused to ink a new deal, making him a free agent next term.

    Therefore, Dortmund could be tempted to sell the forward now if an offer in the region of 30 million euros comes in, with clubs such as Real Madrid and Manchester United closely monitoring his situation.
     

    Wolverine GTR

    Well-known member
  • Jan 1, 2009
    268,940
    11,592
    113
    ♥♥Ŧhệatrệ Θf Drệamś♥♥
    Modric determined to remain at Real Madrid

    261006_heroa.jpg


    The former Tottenham midfielder, who joined los Blancos last season, wants to establish himself at the Santiago Bernabeu, while he also praised former boss Jose Mourinho Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric insists he has no intention of leaving the Spanish capital this summer, though admits he has garnered interest from other clubs.

    The Croatia international has been linked with a move to Chelsea - and a reunion with recently depart los Blancos boss Jose Mourinho - but has played down speculation surrounding an exit from the Liga runner up.

    "I’m not even thinking about the possibility I could leave Madrid this summer, but there is interest from other clubs," Modric told The Sun.

    He added, "Every kid who plays football dreams about playing for Real Madrid. It was the same with me. Of course I was sad when Jose Mourinho left. He was the one who insisted in bringing me to Madrid. He is a fantastic coach and I am honored to have worked with him."

    Chelsea's new boss will be expected to challenge the Manchester clubs for the Premier League title as well as compete for the Champions League, and Modric believes Mourinho will be a success.

    "He really impressed me," he explained. "It’s such a pleasure to play in his team and talk with him about football.I wish him all the best in Chelsea. I believe he will use all his knowledge and expertise at Stamford Bridge once again."
     

    Wolverine GTR

    Well-known member
  • Jan 1, 2009
    268,940
    11,592
    113
    ♥♥Ŧhệatrệ Θf Drệamś♥♥
    Neymar: Brazil is steadily improving

    287466_heroa.jpg


    The 21-year-old says the Selecao are growing stronger as a unit and that confidence is growing ahead of the Confederations Cup Neymar believes that Brazil is improving with each passing game after a 3-0 victory over France on Sunday.

    The win was just Luiz Felipe Scolari's second in his current spell in charge of the Selecao and the 21-year-old says confidence is steadily growing in the dressing-room for the upcoming international tournament.

    "We are happy about winning," he told reporters after the game.

    "We are getting better with each game. We have a desire to keep improving and this victory has given us increased confidence for the Confederations Cup."

    Meanwhile, Neymar's fellow Barca star and compatriot Dani Alves is convinced that Felipao will lead the country to major honors.

    "We are working with humility and dedication. Believe me when I say Scolari will prove successful again," he added.

    "We are building a large group. We are doing things right. We have to patient and calm because in the end we will be rewarded for it."

    Brazil begins its Confederations Cup campaign by hosting Japan on June 15.
     

    Wolverine GTR

    Well-known member
  • Jan 1, 2009
    268,940
    11,592
    113
    ♥♥Ŧhệatrệ Θf Drệamś♥♥
    Van Ginkel flattered by Chelsea interest
    283733_heroa.jpg


    The Dutch youngster is remaining coy on his future but hints that he would be interested in a move to Stamford Bridge this summer Vitesse youngster Marco van Ginkel has admitted that he is flattered by the interest of Chelsea.

    Goal revealed last month that the Blues were close to making the Netherlands international the first signing of Jose Mourinho's second reign at Stamford Bridge.

    And the 20-year-old says he is pleased to hear of the Premier League club's admiration for him.

    "I'm not doing this now, but I'm flattered by their interest," he said after Jong Oranje's 5-1 victory over Russia in the Under-21 European Championship.

    Cor Pot's men sealed qualification for the semifinals of the tournament in Israel with the win, which followed their 3-2 victory over Germany in their first game.

    Van Ginkel scored eight goals in 33 Eredivisie games as Vitesse sealed a place in next season's Europa League with a fourth-placed finish.
     

    Wolverine GTR

    Well-known member
  • Jan 1, 2009
    268,940
    11,592
    113
    ♥♥Ŧhệatrệ Θf Drệamś♥♥
    Rooney leaving United would be a huge disappointment, says Yorke

    264187_heroa.jpg


    The former Red Devils forward admits the 27-year-old had a difficult season, but believes it is in his best interests to stay at Old Trafford Former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke insists David Moyes must ensure Wayne Rooney stays at Old Trafford this season.

    Rooney's future at Old Trafford has come under intense scrutiny in recent weeks following a supposed breakdown in relations with outgoing Red Devils' boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

    The England international is holding secretive talks with two mystery clubs as he continues to try and engineer a move away from the Premier League champion.

    However, Yorke believes United must keep the 27-year-old and claims it would be a 'huge disappointment' if he were to leave.

    Speaking to talkSPORT, Yorke said: “There’s always speculation with Wayne Rooney.

    "This year he hasn’t played his best football but I’m sure he can turn that around.

    “Manchester United are about retaining the best players and Rooney is one of those. It would be a huge disappointment if he decided to leave the football club and I’m sure David Moyes will be looking to keep hold of him.”
     

    Wolverine GTR

    Well-known member
  • Jan 1, 2009
    268,940
    11,592
    113
    ♥♥Ŧhệatrệ Θf Drệamś♥♥
    Brazil 3-0 France: Oscar, Hernanes and Lucas Moura provide Confederations Cup boost

    287472hp2.jpg


    Brazil earned its second win in its seventh game under Luiz Felipe Scolari with a timely 3-0 win over France at the Arena do Gremio.

    The Selecao struggled during the early exchanges but a tactical change employed by the coach saw them begin to control proceedings. Early in the second half they finally opened the scoring through Oscar before Hernanes struck and a Lucas Moura penalty wrapped up the win in the closing stages to give the team a lift before the Confederations Cup.

    There could have been a goal in the first minute when Hugo Lloris was too hesitant on the ball on the edge of his area and Neymar picked his pocket. The new Barcelona signing tried to shimmy around the keeper who got a valuable foot in which allowed his defence to clear it properly.

    But it was France which played the best football, and with the Selecao struggling Scolari made the decision to move Neymar out to the left and revert to the previously tested 4-2-3-1 system. With Hulk on the right he instantly looked more dangerous, but after cutting in onto his left the first time in the 19th minute he blazed a shot well over.

    Brazil continued to pose a threat down the right. First, Hulk's low cross after beating Jeremy Mathieu was cleared at the near post by Mamadou Sakho, and then it took a well-judged interception from Mathieu Valbuena to stop Neymar tapping home from Oscar's cross just after the half hour mark.

    To its credit les Bleus were stubborn, but Brazil was unable to take any of their opportunities to take an advantage into the break.

    There were chances for both teams within two minutes of the restart as Yohan Cabaye fired an effort from distance just outside the post after Hulk had only found the side netting at the end of a Canarinha counterattack.

    The deadlock was soon broken in the 54th minute, though, and it went the way of the hosts. Luiz Gustavo won possession in midfield and the loose ball fell to Fred on the left. He took his time before passing inside to Oscar, who took a touch and slotted the ball past Lloris.

    Minutes later the Chelsea man could have added a second, but he could not guide a delicate flick with his trailing leg inside the far post.

    Julio Cesar was forced to produce an impressive save to stop David Luiz from putting through his own goal on the hour mark, but Lloris outdid him six minutes later. The keeper got down well to parry a shot from Fred aside and then showed good agility to make it a double save by beating Neymar to the loose ball.

    Brazil's first victory over France since August of 1992 was wrapped up with six minutes of normal time, though, as Neymar cushioned Lucas Moura's cross into the path of Hernanes. The Lazio man did not make a clean connection with the ball but still managed to guide past Lloris via the post.

    There was still time for more icing on the cake as a slick run from Marcelo ended with the hosts being awarded a penalty in stoppage time and Paris-based Lucas slotted it into the bottom corner.

    Scolari's side will take confidence from the win and will hope to build upon it when it gets its Confederations Cup campaign underway against Japan next weekend.
     

    Wolverine GTR

    Well-known member
  • Jan 1, 2009
    268,940
    11,592
    113
    ♥♥Ŧhệatrệ Θf Drệamś♥♥
    Neymar: I feel like a king

    285589_heroa.jpg


    The new Barcelona signing has revealed he still glowing following his move to Catalonia and Thiago Silva has tipped his fellow Brazilian to succeed in Europe
    Barcelona striker Neymar says his move to Camp Nou has left him feeling "as happy as a king".

    The 21-year-old completed his switch to the Liga giants from Santos a fortnight ago and admitted that he is realising a long-time ambition by signing for the Catalans.

    "Yes, I am very happy to have completed my move [to Barcelona]. This has always been a dream for me," he told Telefoot. "My feeling is no doubt one of great happiness. I have followed the ideal path and now I'm happy as a king."

    Meanwhile, the forward's Selecao teammate Thiago Silva believes his countryman will not be overawed by the prospect of lining up alongside the continent's finest players every week.

    "He will playing with the best team in the world and I think he will be fine," he said. "He will be surrounded with quality and he is prepared to meet this challenge. He will not be afraid of playing alongside the biggest names in world football."
     

    Wolverine GTR

    Well-known member
  • Jan 1, 2009
    268,940
    11,592
    113
    ♥♥Ŧhệatrệ Θf Drệamś♥♥
    Lloris rejects talk of Monaco move

    248201_heroa.jpg


    The France No.1 says he left Ligue 1 to give himself a new challenge, while his roots at hometown club Nice would make a move to the Stade Louis II difficult to accept Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has rejected talk of a possible move to Monaco, insisting he left Ligue 1 to "build something on a personal and sporting level".

    The France No.1 has been linked with joining the likes of Radamel Falcao, Joao Moutinho and Jackson Martinez in the revolution at the promoted club.

    But Lloris, who established himself as a regular starter at White Hart Lane following a summer arrival after ousting Brad Friedel, says he does not intend to return to France in the foreseeable future.

    "What's happening in Monaco is good for Ligue 1 and for this great French club, because PSG need a challenger," Lloris told le10sport. "But personally, I left to go abroad, to try and build something on a personal and sporting level and I don't intend to come back soon."

    Lloris, though, has hinted that a large cash incentive could tempt him to return to France, but he would only be interested in furthering his career, while a switch to the Stade Louis II would be hard to accept after coming through the ranks at neighbours Nice.

    "There are some things that are difficult to refuse, but only if it allows you to go one step further," he added.

    "And then there is another thing - I am too much of a Nice man to go there!"
     

    Wolverine GTR

    Well-known member
  • Jan 1, 2009
    268,940
    11,592
    113
    ♥♥Ŧhệatrệ Θf Drệamś♥♥
    Lamela: I'm staying at Roma

    272623_heroa.jpg


    The 21-year-old has been linked with moves to Manchester United and City in recent months but he insists he has no plans to quit the Italian capital Roma star Erik Lamela has once more underlined his commitment to Roma, insisting there is no chance he will be leaving the Serie A outfit this summer.

    Lamela, who hit 15 goals in 33 league appearances for the Giallorossi last season, has been linked with the likes of Manchester United and Manchester City in recent weeks after blossoming into one of the brightest young players in the Italian game.

    However, the 21-year-old Argentine is adamant that he has no plans to call time on his career with the capital club and believes the current crop of players can go on to be successful in future.

    "I'm absolutely staying. I'm more determined to remain in Rome. With the relationship I have with the people, I feel at home," he said in an interview with Sport Week. "It is not easy to achieve great things with so many youngsters in the group. I believe this team is better than the table suggests."

    Roma captain Francesco Totti paid tribute recently to the young attacking midfielder, but Lamela insists he must focus on performing well for the team rather than personal accolades.

    "I liked the words of Francesco, but I have to think about how to make Roma great whenever I go out on the pitch," he continued.

    Roma suffered a Coppa Italia final defeat to bitter rival Lazio at the end of last season and Lamela admits the passion of the supporters can often reach unsettling levels.

    "Here in Rome, there is no third way: you're either Giallorossi or Lazio. They are crazy for the game. I met a fan who has my autograph tattooed on his arm - it is too much," he added.
     

    Wolverine GTR

    Well-known member
  • Jan 1, 2009
    268,940
    11,592
    113
    ♥♥Ŧhệatrệ Θf Drệamś♥♥
    Neymar: We proved we can win the Confederations Cup

    287466_heroa.jpg


    The 21-year-old insists his side is unfazed by recent criticism and believes the 3-0 win over France shows the Selecao are contenders for the trophy.Neymar is confident Brazil has what it takes to win the FIFA Confederations Cup later this month.

    The Selecao, ranked an all-time low 22nd in the world in the latest FIFA rankings, defied recent critics with a convincing 3-0 win over France on Sunday, and the newly signed Barcelona forward believes his side has shown it is strong enough to lift the trophy for a second consecutive time, but this time on home soil. Brazil won the 2009 Confederations Cup by coming back from two goals down to defeat the USA in the final in South Africa 3-2.

    “We weren’t playing for the critics, we were playing for ourselves. We don’t care what others are saying, the most important thing is what you demonstrate on the pitch,” Neymar told reporters after the match. “We proved that we can win the [Confederations Cup].”

    Neymar has failed to score in his last seven outings after drawing another blank against Les Bleus on Sunday, but Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari insists he is happy with the 21-year-old's recent displays.

    “I don’t agree [with the criticism]. My analysis is that Neymar has done exactly what I asked of him. The way he played left me satisfied," Scolari said.
     

    Wolverine GTR

    Well-known member
  • Jan 1, 2009
    268,940
    11,592
    113
    ♥♥Ŧhệatrệ Θf Drệamś♥♥
    Croatia 0-1 Portugal: Ronaldo opener guides Portguese to friendly victory

    287694hp2.jpg


    Portugal enjoyed a narrow 1-0 victory over Croatia in Monday's international friendly action in Switzerland thanks to Cristiano Ronaldo's first-half strike.

    The Seleccao skipper buried a fine finish after 36 minutes to give his side a narrow win, while Paulo Bento was able to shuffle his pack throughout the game as he looks for the most effective attacking formula.

    After a slow start, Croatia was to create the first notable chance of the clash on six minutes. Ivica Olic failed to steer home an Ivo Ilicevic cut-back, with Eduardo left helpless between the posts.

    From that point onwards, Ronaldo was to be the main catalyst of the half. The Real Madrid forward lit up proceedings on the pitch and ignited the atmosphere in Geneva with some driving runs, adding some excitement to an otherwise-sluggish first half. However, the 28-year-old spurned his first chance to break the deadlock on 18 minutes when he failed to connect properly with Fabio Coentrao's delivery.

    Ronaldo wasn't to spurn another opportunity though, giving Portugal the game's opening goal on 36 minutes. After impressive work down the right from Silvio, the Deportivo defender's cross was set back to the captain by a fantastic touch from Silvestre Varela, and, after side-stepping the defenders, he made no mistake in slamming the ball left-footed into the bottom corner.

    Croatia keeper Danijel Subasic was left similarly helpless merely five minutes later by the same man, as Ronaldo left the crossbar rattling. After nodding his header into the ground powerfully, the Portuguese goalscorer was dismayed to see his effort rebound off the woodwork, as Bento's men headed into the break with a slender lead.

    Croatia made a strong start to the second half before Vieirinha carved out the next good opportunity. As the Wolfsburg man cut in towards the near post, Vierinha spotted Hugo Almeida unmarked at the back stick, but he found a Croatian shirt rather than the boot of his teammate.

    On 78 minutes, Croatia then went close. After play was switched out to the right flank by substitute Alen Halilovic, the eventual cross lofted in search of Ivan Perisic narrowly escaped the winger, who nodded the ball just over Eduardo's bar. Perisic was then found again minutes later by a smart through-ball by Nikola Kalinic, but a poor first touch took the opportunity away from him.

    Halilovic had the final clear opportunity of the game on 86 minutes, as the 16-year-old forced a smart save from Eduardo, who had to get down quickly to his right to palm the youngster's effort around the post.

    Portugal went on to claim its second 1-0 win in as many games, but with both sides wasting a worrying amount of chances, the outcome of the game will perhaps leave question marks over the quality of both sides' strike forces heading back into World Cup qualifying matches.
     

    Wolverine GTR

    Well-known member
  • Jan 1, 2009
    268,940
    11,592
    113
    ♥♥Ŧhệatrệ Θf Drệamś♥♥
    Real Madrid completes Casemiro signing


    The Brazilian has inked a four-year deal with Los Blancos after spending last season on loan from Sao Paulo with the youth team.Brazil starlet Casemiro has signed a permanent deal with Real Madrid after the club activated his 6 million euro release clause.

    The 18-year-old joined the Madrid Castilla on loan from Sao Paulo in December, and he made 15 appearances for the club, including one showing for the senior side against Betis in April.

    The club released an official statement on its website to confirm the news, revealing that the player has penned a four-year deal with last season's Liga runner-up after. An attacking midfielder, Casemiro, who has 15 caps to his name for the Brazil Under-20 side, becomes Madrid's second signing of the summer after fullback Dani Carvajal rejoined Los Blancos from Bayer Leverkusen.
     
    Status
    Not open for further replies.