..::Football II::..

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Pogba rubbishes Juventus exit rumours


The 20-year-old says his focus for the summer is the Under-20 World Cup with France rather than a move away from the Bianconeri Paul Pogba has moved to distance himself from the speculation regarding his future by stating he will "certainly stay with Juventus".

The 20-year-old midfielder enjoyed an impressive first season in Turin and despite speculation linking him with the likes of Arsenal, the Frenchman is eager to further his career in Serie A.

"I'm good at Juventus, so now I'm focusing on the Under-20 World Cup," he told Le Parisien. "There's nothing new about my future. I will certainly stay with Juventus."

Pogba moved to Italy from Manchester United last summer on a free transfer and scored five goals in 27 appearances.

 

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Liverpool confirms agreement to sign Iago Aspas


The Celta Vigo forward will arrive at Anfield as the Reds' second recruit of the summer, subject to documentation being completed, following his Wednesday medical Liverpool has announced that a deal has been agreed "in principle" to sign forward Iago Aspas from Celta Vigo.

The 25-year-old will officially become a Reds player "subject to documentation being completed".

Aspas is understood to have completed a medical on Wednesday, after which his agent and brother, Jonathan, confirmed that "only bureaucratic issues remain unresolved".

The departing Celestes star, who can play as a center forward or on the flanks, is believed to have cost Liverpool 7 million pounds after an impressive season with a struggling team.

Aspas scored 12 goals in La Liga as Celta narrowly avoided relegation from the Spanish top flight.

The striker becomes the second acquisition for the Reds this summer, following the arrival of Kolo Toure on a free transfer from Manchester City.

 

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Juventus' Claudio Marchisio is flattered by Manchester United link

Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio has admitted he is "proud" to be linked with Manchester United as speculation over his future mounts.

The 27-year-old is thought to be on the radar of the Premier League champions and big-spending Monaco, but no offers have been made yet.And Marchisio insists that he is unsure where his future lies, although he is flattered by talk of a potential move to Manchester.

"There are things to be proud of, but I am not sure if they are true," Marchisio told Gazzetta dello Sport."I have not heard from anyone at Manchester United or Monaco."When I talk with my club everything will become clearer."

Marchisio is in Rio de Janeiro with Italy at the Confederations Cup, and is remaining focused on the task at hand.He said: "Now I only think of the Confederations Cup. That is all that is important at the moment."

 

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Edinson Cavani is determined to see through a move to Real Madrid

Napoli striker Edinson Cavani will reject a move to the Premier League and has set his heart on a move to Real Madrid, according to his father.

The 26-year-old is one possible target for the Spanish side as they search for a replacement for Gonzalo Higuain.Chelsea and Manchester City are also believed to be tracking the Uruguayan, who scored 36 goals in all competitions last season.

"Cavani's intention is to play for Madrid," Luis Cavani told Futboleros. "He is excited about it and is very willing to see it through."He has told the family in private that he wants to join Real Madrid but if he declares it publicly it will annoy Napoli."

He added that representatives from Madrid had already held talks with the player but is concerned that Napoli's valuation of his son may prove a stumbling block.
"There has been contact with Real Madrid's lawyers and now we are waiting for the two clubs to meet," he said."I hope it happens and that talks take place as soon as possible. Who wouldn't want to play for Real Madrid?

"It's not just up to Edi. They are talking about 65million euros and Napoli won't negotiate for any less."

 

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Boateng returns to Ghana set-up

The AC Milan midfielder announced his retirement from the international game two years ago but has now had a change of heart Ghana Football Association president Kwesi Nyantakyi has revealed that Kevin-Prince Boateng has decided to return to the Black Stars set-up.

The AC Milan attacking midfielder, who retired from international football two years ago, has formally announced that he is once again available to Kwesi Appiah for selection.

“Kevin-Prince Boateng had confirmed to the coach and my good self that he was coming back to play for us,” Nyantakyi told SuperSport.

“Let me confirm that before Kwesi Appiah selected his team for the Sudan game Kevin had told the coach and me that he was available for that game.”

The FA boss added: “Unfortunately, a week before that game, he picked up an injury during training with AC Milan but he told us that he would participate in the team's games in June.”

Boateng retired from the national team in 2011, claiming that the “physical demands” being placed upon him had made it impossible for him to continue representing his country.

His last match for the Black Stars was in early 2011, in a 2012 African Nations Cup qualifier against Congo Brazzaville in Kumasi.

 

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Suarez: Liverpool must listen to me

The striker is looking increasingly likely to move club this summer after again hinting at his desire to join Real Madrid, but he acknowledges his loyalties lie with the Reds Liverpool striker Luis Suarez has called on the club to "listen" to him amid talk of a possible summer exit from Anfield.

The Uruguay international has recently admitted his desire to join Real Madrid, describing it as a "dream", while revealing he is keen to leave England due to negative press attention.

Suarez, though, has acknowledged his loyalties must lie with his contracted club, Liverpool, but was keen to stress the importance of a player's wishes.

"First, I have a contract with the club, but if one day I want to sign [for another club], Liverpool will hear the offer, as it does with other players," he told Marca.

"They must agree with other teams, but the word of the player, in this case mine, is important. If you need a change, you should listen to the player.

"Every player aspires [to be the best] and if you ask a child of eight years they would say one day they would go to Real Madrid or Barcelona."

Suarez has repeatedly attracted controversy during his time in England, being handed an eight-game ban for racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra before a 10-game ban for biting Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic.

Liverpool fans have supported the striker throughout his spell at Anfield, and Suarez insists he will always care for the club.

"The love I have for Liverpool I will never forget," he added. "I love the city, the club and the people and everyone is welcome. All I ask is for respect for all the things that have been said."

Suarez maintains he has been singled out by British media, but accepts there are areas of his on-field behavior which he could improve on.

"There are moments of importance [in games] and I have lived football in a very particular way since childhood," he said.

"But I know I can play tricks. Sometimes I protest too much to the referee. I have to take it a bit better."

Suarez, who is currently in Brazil preparing for the Confederations Cup with Uruguay, joined Liverpool from Ajax in 2011.

 

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Villa: No issues between Casillas and Arbeloa

The forward has claimed that there are is no tension in the Roja dressing room and that the players are united in their focus on Confederations Cup glory.Spain striker David Villa has moved to dispel reports of problems behind the scenes between his international teammates Iker CasillaS and Alvaro Arbeloa.

Despite suggestions that all is not well within the Roja camp in the lead up to the Confederations Cup, the forward has claimed that the entire squad is united.

"There are always good vibes; you can see it: all teams that work well have great affinity. I have not seen any problems between [Casillas and Arbeloa]," Villa told El Partido de las doce.

The Barcelona man instead chose to focus on Spain's hopes for the Confederations Cup, making it clear that their aim is to take the title, with the tournament's location making it all the more appealing for the Roja players.

"[The opportunity to win the competition] makes us excited, as it is a competition that we have failed to win before," he pointed out.

"Brazil is a football country. Maracana is legendary for football players and to win a title there is extra motivation."

Villa also admitted that he is very keen to feature for his country but said that should someone else be a preferable option up front he will have no qualms about stepping aside.

"I have to do the job as best as possible and be attentive to when there is a chance," he mused. "I came with the intention of working hard to help my team, but if not me, there are others who could play for the good of the team."

The former Valencia striker also revealed that he doesn't know when he will retire from international football, explaining that he will always make himself available for selection as long as he is fit and healthy.

"I don't know if my time with Spain will end after the World Cup in Brazil; it depends on how it goes. But I hope to be able to continue for as long as possible."

Villa is Spain's all-time record goalscorer, having netted 53 times for his country.

 

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David Villa meh tike nam tikak out of form But form 1kata awama nam Patta​

 

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Verratti: I'm staying at PSG

The young Italian looks set to remain in the French capital for the foreseeable future - despite the potential departure of coach Carlo Ancelotti for Real Madrid
Marco Verratti has moved to play down reports linking him with a move away from Paris Saint-Germain by unequivocally stating his desire to remain at the Parc des Princes.

With coach Carlo Ancelotti seemingly set to become Jose Mourinho's replacement at Real Madrid, it had been suggested that Verratti could follow his fellow Italian to Spain.

However, Verratti says that he has no desire to leave the Ligue 1 champions and will not be swayed by any potential approach from Los Blancos.

"My future isn't tied to the coach's. I am very happy in Paris; we'll see what happens in the future, but for now I want to stay at PSG," Verratti is reported as having said by Marca.

Verratti added that while he will be sad to see Ancelotti go, he is delighted that the former AC Milan boss seems bound for the Bernabeu.

"I heard about Ancelotti a few days ago and I think he's going to leave. If this is the case, I'll be happy for him because he'd be going to a big club."

Verratti has impressed many at PSG after arriving from Pescara in 2012 with his imperious yet creative displays from midfield.

 

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Aubameyang open to Monaco switch

The forward's father has revealed that there is a great deal of interest in his son following a wonderful year in France, but that the Stade Louis II is his preferred destination Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang could be set to join the likes of Radamel Falcao and James Rodriguez to create a formidable attacking trident at Monaco, according to his father.

The Saint-Etienne forward has been linked with moves to Borussia Dortmund, Anzhi Makhachkala and a host of English sides after he scored 19 goals in Ligue 1 this season.

"Much of the Germany talk is true, but proposals come from everywhere," Aubameyang senior, himself a former professional footballer, told RTL. "I believe that we will be able to continue the discussions."

However, while he reused to close doors, the striker's father made it clear that his preference would be for his son to move to the Stade Louis II.

"Monaco? If they come see or see me directly, it is clear that there will be an exchange with them. When you see the Monaco project, [it can be seen that] this will be a serious competitor of PSG. This kind of club will be successful in a year or two. That is what I am now looking for my son."

Gabon international Aubameyang began his career at AC Milan but failed to make the grade at San Siro and joined Saint-Etienne on a permanent basis two years ago, after a short spell on loan to les Verts.

 

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Aubameyang th ahenam monaco yai wage

 

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Former Arsenal midfielder Denilson rejoins Sao Paulo

The Brazilian giants claim the 25-year-old turned down offers from Santos, Gremio and Cruzeiro to return to Morumbi on a free transfer.Former Arsenal midfielder Denilson has rejoined Sao Paulo on a permanent deal after being released by the Gunners.

The 25-year-old arrived at the Emirates Stadium as a teenager in 2006 and made 108 appearances in all competitions, but never managed to hold down a regular first-team place.

A lack of action saw Denilson shipped out to Sao Paulo on loan in each of the last two seasons, and earlier this month he was released, along with Andrey Arshavin and Sebastien Squillaci, following the expiration of his contract with the north London side.

On their official website, the Brazilian giants claimed the midfielder had turned down offers from rivals Santos, Cruzeiro and Gremio to rejoin the club on a permanent basis.

 

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Mata: Nobody at Chelsea has told me Mourinho wants me out

It has been claimed that 'The Special One' views the former Valencia man - along with Fernando Torres and David Luiz - as surplus to requirements Juan Mata insists he has heard nothing from Chelsea or Jose Mourinho to suggest he might be sold this summer.

The Spain international was in scintillating form for the Blues last season, winning the club's player of the year award as well as being shortlisted by both the Professional Footballers' Association and the Football Writers' Association.

Recent reports, however, have suggested that Mourinho might consider Mata - along with Fernando Torres and David Luiz - to be expendable assets, as he looks to refine his squad.

But the former Valencia ace told Marca: "Nobody at Chelsea has told me that Mourinho wants me out. When I finished the season I was told that they were very happy with my performances and with the two years I've spent with the club. I have three years left on my contract. I'm very happy with Chelsea.

"Mourinho? I'd prefer to wait until I meet him and work with him before I judge him. That's simple logic."

Far from dwelling on transfer speculation, Mata is already setting targets for next season at Stamford Bridge, with winning the Premier League at the top of his agenda.

"We still need to win the Premier League," he insisted. "It's something I'd really like to do. It must be a great feeling to win a title that so many teams with so much history compete for."

Mata, who is currently on international duty at the Confederations Cup in Brazil, joined Chelsea from Valencia in August 2011.

 

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Napoli makes Strootman enquiry

The Serie A outfit has turned its attention to the Netherlands international, while it is also keen on his PSV teammate Dries Mertens Kevin Strootman could be on his way out of PSV this summer, as Napoli has shown an interest in luring the midfielder to Serie A ahead of the 2013-14 campaign.

The Netherlands international has long been linked with a move to a bigger league, with Manchester United among the teams keeping a close eye on the 23-year-old.

Nevertheless, Napoli now seems to be leading the race for Strootman, who is currently in action at the European Under-21 Championship.

"Napoli's interest is pretty serious. They have already approached us," Strootman's agent Chiel Dekker told Voetbal International.

"Kevin's focused on the Under-21 Euros for now, though."

A move to Napoli is by no means a certainty yet, however, as Strootman's preference remains a move to the Premier League.

"Kevin's never made it a secret that he has a preference for the Premier League," added Dekker.

The midfielder has a contract with PSV until the summer of 2016, but could be available for a fee in the region of 15 million euros.

Meanwhile, Napoli is closing in on Dries Mertens as well, as it sees the PSV winger as a valuable addition to its attack.

Sporting director Riccardo Bigon travelled to Netherlands earlier this week to open talks with the Belgium international and is hopeful that a 10 million euro offer will be enough to lure Mertens to the Stadio San Paolo.

The 26-year-old is under contract with his current club until June 2016.

 

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Jesus Navas delighted with Pellegrini arrival

New Manchester City signing Jesus Navas insists he cannot wait to start working with boss Manuel Pellegrini.

City confirmed on Friday that Pellegrini had signed a three-year contract to replace Roberto Mancini, who was sacked just a year after guiding City to its first league title since 1968.

The club has also made their intentions clear in the transfer market, spending over 59 million euros to acquire Navas and Fernandinho from Shakhtar Donetsk, and the Spaniard is excited about the new season.

“Everything I know about him is positive. Every team he coaches plays well, and everyone in the city will support him,” Navas told the club's official website.

“He's important because he will help the team and we all know the importance of a good manager and a good person that we trust. I think [his teams are good] defensively as well.”

 

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I'm no Suarez replacement, insists Liverpool new-boy Aspas

The Spaniard has been compared to the troubled Uruguayan in terms of his talent and temperament, but insists he will be his own man at Anfield Liverpool new-boy Iago Aspas insists he has not been signed to replace Luis Suarez.

The 25-year-old Spaniard's 8 million euro move to Anfield was confirmed this week, just as the controversial Uruguayan prepares for the Confederations Cup with his club future under a cloud.

But Aspas, a skilful attacker with a fiery temper - highlighted in the four-match ban he received for headbutting Carlos Marchena last season - has rejected any form of comparison with Suarez.

“Liverpool are one of the biggest clubs in the world and I am going there to take an important step in my career, not to be a replacement for anyone,” he told the Daily Mirror. “I think it is time for me to take the next step in my career and Liverpool can help me do that. I have confidence in my ability to move forward and to grow as a player.

He added, “I described the move as emotional for me because it is such a big club and it means I’ve reached another level. But I am calm because I feel I am ready. I want to show that I am capable of playing at the level of this huge club.”

Aspas also revealed he fully expects to be partnering Suarez up front for Liverpool next season, rather than watching him turn out for Real Madrid.

“I am excited to be going to England – I want to play in the Premier League,” he stated. “And I hope I will be helped to settle there by all the Spanish speakers at the club... including Luis Suarez.”

 

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Suarez Liverpool ma hitiyoth next season 1ke hoda gemak denna puluwan

 

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Scolari: Neymar criticism is unfair

The national team boss has insisted that there's more to the Selecao than the 21-year-old and is satisfied with his contribution Brazil coach Felipe Scolari has defended Neymar against recent criticism and has insisted that he does not expect the new Barcelona signing to try and decide games all by himself.

The 21-year-old has been unable to live up to the hype surrounding his talent for Brazil in recent outings, but Scolari feels he still contributes enough to the team and never lets his teammates down.

"Neymar is not wearing 11 Brazil jerseys, but just the one. He is part of the team," Scolari told reporters. "He always does what I ask him to do on the pitch and does so with all his heart. We want him to be a useful player for the team. You have to work for the team in order to be a good player.

"If he doesn't score, he's still helping his teammates. I will not order him to try and take on 20 opponents like he occasionally did at Santos. It should be in the team's best interest."

Neymar joined Barcelona for 57 million euros at the beginning of June and is now preparing for Brazil's Confederations Cup opener against Japan on Saturday night.

 

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Santana slams 'stupid' Klopp over Gotze injury

The former BVB defender has criticized the 45-year-old's handling of the Bayern-bound midfielder, claiming he returned to training too early which aggravated his injury.Felipe Santana has slammed "stupid" Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp for allowing former teammate Mario Gotze to train prior to the Champions League final against Bayern Munich.

The German prodigy was stretchered off with a hamstring complaint in the early stages of BVB's 2-0 defeat to Real Madrid in the second leg of their last-four tie at the end of April, only to be ruled out of the decider a month later.

However, the center back believes the coach is to blame for Gotze's absence at Wembley and subsequent spell on the treatment table as the attacking midfielder aggravated his knock in training five days before the final on May 26.

"Our coach was stupid. Mario felt a knock in the game against Real Madrid and was then taken to a Munich hospital," Santana said in an interview on ESPN Brasil.

"When he returned, the coach let him train on the Tuesday. He should not have done so because there was an important game on Saturday."

Santana has since departed Dortmund and joined Ruhr rivals Schalke. Gotze, 21, will represent Bayern next season, despite being expected to miss the start of the new campaign due to injury.

 

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Pique: I want to retire with Barca

he Spain international has occasionally been linked with a return to England, but his heart is solely set on seeing out the remainder of his playing days at Camp Nou
Gerard Pique has confirmed he plans to stay at Barcelona for the rest of his career despite links with the Premier League.

The 26-year-old came under criticism following a series of perceived below-par performances last season, and reports in both Spain and England have suggested that a return to British football could appeal to the center back.However, Pique insisted he was not interested in continuing his career abroad as he emphasized the affection he holds for his "home" in Catalunya, while appearing to suggest that his time outside of Barca ended once he left Manchester United.

"Barca are my family, my life. In life you never know, you cannot say you're not going to do. It's true that [my future] depends on many factors, but come on, the club are my life," he said at a press conference. "I was born in Barcelona, I live there, they're my family, my home and it's certainly where I want to stay.

"For most of my career, I've been here with the exception of a spell at Manchester United, but this is where I want to be for many more years and this is where I want to finish my career."