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Napoli snap up Albiol
Raul Albiol has completed his move from Real Madrid to Napoli, signing a four-year contract with the Partenopei, both clubs have confirmed.
The Spain international has struggled to cement a first-team place during his four years at the Santiago Bernabeu, making just 27 appearances last term.
The 27-year-old has been linked with a move to the Serie A outfit throughout the summer and has now sealed a reported €12 million switch to the San Paolo, signing a four-year deal.
"Napoli have officially signed Raul Albiol," the club's official website read. "The 27-year-old Spanish defender arrives from Real Madrid and has signed a contract for four years."
Rafa Benitez has also brought the former Valencia man's old Madrid team-mate Jose Callejon to the club this summer and have also signed Santos keeper Rafael amongst others.
The Neapolitans finished second in Serie A last term, but lost coach Walter Mazzarri to Inter and star forward Edinson Cavani to Paris Saint-Germain this summer.
Raul Albiol has completed his move from Real Madrid to Napoli, signing a four-year contract with the Partenopei, both clubs have confirmed.
The Spain international has struggled to cement a first-team place during his four years at the Santiago Bernabeu, making just 27 appearances last term.
The 27-year-old has been linked with a move to the Serie A outfit throughout the summer and has now sealed a reported €12 million switch to the San Paolo, signing a four-year deal.
"Napoli have officially signed Raul Albiol," the club's official website read. "The 27-year-old Spanish defender arrives from Real Madrid and has signed a contract for four years."
Rafa Benitez has also brought the former Valencia man's old Madrid team-mate Jose Callejon to the club this summer and have also signed Santos keeper Rafael amongst others.
The Neapolitans finished second in Serie A last term, but lost coach Walter Mazzarri to Inter and star forward Edinson Cavani to Paris Saint-Germain this summer.
Lingard eyes first-team breakthrough at Manchester United
Manchester United youngster Jesse Lingard has set his sights on breaking into the first team this season.The 20-year-old scored twice and played a role in two other goals as United secured David Moyes' first win in charge with a 5-1 victory over the A-League All Stars on Saturday.
He is now keen to become a regular fixture in the Premier League champions' starting line-up, but knows it will be a tough challenge.Speaking in Australia after Saturday's game he said: "This is the hardest club side to in the world to break in at, normally they send you out on loan and then you have to come back and bide your time.
"Hopefully I can come straight through. I believe in myself and I've got to start to believe in myself more day in and day out."The Warrington-born midfielder, who spent time on loan at Leicester City last season, is hoping to follow in the footsteps of other youngsters who have come through the ranks at Old Trafford.
"I've known Danny [Welbeck] and Tom [Cleverley] since they were young as well and they were at United at my age and they've pushed on and progressed," he continued.
"Hopefully I can follow their footsteps. I'm trying to integrate myself into the first team very slowly. I'm maturing now and it's coming together so it's good."
Manchester United youngster Jesse Lingard has set his sights on breaking into the first team this season.The 20-year-old scored twice and played a role in two other goals as United secured David Moyes' first win in charge with a 5-1 victory over the A-League All Stars on Saturday.
He is now keen to become a regular fixture in the Premier League champions' starting line-up, but knows it will be a tough challenge.Speaking in Australia after Saturday's game he said: "This is the hardest club side to in the world to break in at, normally they send you out on loan and then you have to come back and bide your time.
"Hopefully I can come straight through. I believe in myself and I've got to start to believe in myself more day in and day out."The Warrington-born midfielder, who spent time on loan at Leicester City last season, is hoping to follow in the footsteps of other youngsters who have come through the ranks at Old Trafford.
"I've known Danny [Welbeck] and Tom [Cleverley] since they were young as well and they were at United at my age and they've pushed on and progressed," he continued.
"Hopefully I can follow their footsteps. I'm trying to integrate myself into the first team very slowly. I'm maturing now and it's coming together so it's good."
Cech craves more major trophies with Chelsea
Petr Cech has insisted that Chelsea need to win the Premier League or Champions League next season but fears there are six teams who will compete for the domestic title.
The Blues became the first-ever Champions League holders to be eliminated from the group stages last season and had to settle for a place in the Europa League, which they eventually won.
Chelsea have also struggled to challenge for the league title since 2010 and Cech feels that needs to change next season, even if it means competing with five other teams.
"[Manchester] City keep spending money and bringing in players so obviously they have the intention of challenging for the title," he said.
"Manchester United will challenge for the title and I believe that Liverpool and Tottenham will want to improve.
"Arsenal will want to prove everybody wrong. They will be wanting to prove that they are still hungry for success because the manager is under pressure for results.
"We need progression after last season for it to be a success. Progression means doing better in the Premier League and doing better in the Champions League. We need to win something."
The Czech Republic international went on to explain that he will also be under pressure to deliver, especially since the arrival of Mark Schwarzer from Fulham earlier this month.
"I am under pressure so I obviously need to be at my best to keep my place – if I don’t do that, I am not going to play in the Premier League," Cech added.
"If you have fear you might as well stay on holiday and not come back – it is a waste of time and energy."
Jose Mourinho's side will be Manchester United’s first visitors of the new season on August 26 and Cech is hoping Chelsea put previous Old Trafford results behind them and come away with three points.
"We surely want to improve on the last two seasons," he continued. "When United didn’t play particularly well, they always managed to get a result. I think the start of the season will be important.”
Petr Cech has insisted that Chelsea need to win the Premier League or Champions League next season but fears there are six teams who will compete for the domestic title.
The Blues became the first-ever Champions League holders to be eliminated from the group stages last season and had to settle for a place in the Europa League, which they eventually won.
Chelsea have also struggled to challenge for the league title since 2010 and Cech feels that needs to change next season, even if it means competing with five other teams.
"[Manchester] City keep spending money and bringing in players so obviously they have the intention of challenging for the title," he said.
"Manchester United will challenge for the title and I believe that Liverpool and Tottenham will want to improve.
"Arsenal will want to prove everybody wrong. They will be wanting to prove that they are still hungry for success because the manager is under pressure for results.
"We need progression after last season for it to be a success. Progression means doing better in the Premier League and doing better in the Champions League. We need to win something."
The Czech Republic international went on to explain that he will also be under pressure to deliver, especially since the arrival of Mark Schwarzer from Fulham earlier this month.
"I am under pressure so I obviously need to be at my best to keep my place – if I don’t do that, I am not going to play in the Premier League," Cech added.
"If you have fear you might as well stay on holiday and not come back – it is a waste of time and energy."
Jose Mourinho's side will be Manchester United’s first visitors of the new season on August 26 and Cech is hoping Chelsea put previous Old Trafford results behind them and come away with three points.
"We surely want to improve on the last two seasons," he continued. "When United didn’t play particularly well, they always managed to get a result. I think the start of the season will be important.”
Barcelona set sights on Luis Enrique & Martino to replace Vilanova
Luis Enrique and Gerardo Martino have emerged as the two leading candidates to coach Barcelona next season following the departure of Tito Vilanova on health grounds.
The Catalans announced on Friday that Vilanova will step down with immediate effect to continue cancer treatment and club president Sandro Rosell revealed a successor will be appointed next week.
Luis Enrique, a Camp Nou great who scored 109 goals in 300 appearances for Barcelona and coached the club's B team between 2008 and 2011, is the Catalans' top target and TV3 claimed on Saturday that the Blaugrana were close to an agreement with Celta Vigo.
The former Spain star only signed with the Galician outfit this summer and Barca would need to pay around €3 million in compensation to bring in the Asturian. It has also been claimed the Catalans could offer former Girona boss Rubi to Celta as a possible replacement for the 43-year-old.
However, the ex-Roma boss is thought to be uncomfortable at the prospect of leaving the Galicians so soon after agreeing to coach the club and Barca are looking at other alternatives, with former Paraguay and Newell's Old Boys boss Martino also in the frame.
The Argentine is on good terms with Lionel Messi and is the forward's first choice to replace Vilanova. According to Ole and Radio La Red, Barca's sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta is set to fly to Argentina for talks with the Rosario-born coach on Monday.
Another former Newell's boss, Marcelo Bielsa, is also under consideration, along with ex-Barcelona midfielder and current Swansea manager Michael Laudrup and Athletic Bilbao trainer Ernesto Valverde.
Vilanova, meanwhile, will continue to work for the Catalan club on a part-time basis, although his exact role remains unclear at this stage.
Luis Enrique and Gerardo Martino have emerged as the two leading candidates to coach Barcelona next season following the departure of Tito Vilanova on health grounds.
The Catalans announced on Friday that Vilanova will step down with immediate effect to continue cancer treatment and club president Sandro Rosell revealed a successor will be appointed next week.
Luis Enrique, a Camp Nou great who scored 109 goals in 300 appearances for Barcelona and coached the club's B team between 2008 and 2011, is the Catalans' top target and TV3 claimed on Saturday that the Blaugrana were close to an agreement with Celta Vigo.
The former Spain star only signed with the Galician outfit this summer and Barca would need to pay around €3 million in compensation to bring in the Asturian. It has also been claimed the Catalans could offer former Girona boss Rubi to Celta as a possible replacement for the 43-year-old.
However, the ex-Roma boss is thought to be uncomfortable at the prospect of leaving the Galicians so soon after agreeing to coach the club and Barca are looking at other alternatives, with former Paraguay and Newell's Old Boys boss Martino also in the frame.
The Argentine is on good terms with Lionel Messi and is the forward's first choice to replace Vilanova. According to Ole and Radio La Red, Barca's sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta is set to fly to Argentina for talks with the Rosario-born coach on Monday.
Another former Newell's boss, Marcelo Bielsa, is also under consideration, along with ex-Barcelona midfielder and current Swansea manager Michael Laudrup and Athletic Bilbao trainer Ernesto Valverde.
Vilanova, meanwhile, will continue to work for the Catalan club on a part-time basis, although his exact role remains unclear at this stage.
De Bruyne to return to England for scan on knee injury
Chelsea have confirmed Kevin De Bruyne will return to England for an MRI scan on the knee injury he sustained in Sunday's friendly win over Malaysia XI.
De Bruyne landed awkwardly after smashing in the second goal in the Blues' 4-1 win over Malaysia XI on Sunday, and was immediately substituted.
But the Belgian later joined his team-mates on the bench for the second half, allaying fears of serious knee ligament damage, and it was expected he would remain with the rest of the squad.
After the match, boss Jose Mourinho praised De Bruyne's performance and, while suggesting a return to London might be necessary, appeared confident the midfielder's injury was not as bad as first feared.
"When he was on the floor and asking for a change everybody thought the worst, but the first assessment by the doctor is that [it is not] ligaments, and if it's something in the meniscus it has to be a very small injury, so we believe it is not an important injury and hopefully it isn't because the kid is a fantastic player," Mourinho told reporters.
"A kid, but a man on the pitch. Hopefully it's nothing important and he will be ready soon."
Chelsea have confirmed Kevin De Bruyne will return to England for an MRI scan on the knee injury he sustained in Sunday's friendly win over Malaysia XI.
De Bruyne landed awkwardly after smashing in the second goal in the Blues' 4-1 win over Malaysia XI on Sunday, and was immediately substituted.
But the Belgian later joined his team-mates on the bench for the second half, allaying fears of serious knee ligament damage, and it was expected he would remain with the rest of the squad.
After the match, boss Jose Mourinho praised De Bruyne's performance and, while suggesting a return to London might be necessary, appeared confident the midfielder's injury was not as bad as first feared.
"When he was on the floor and asking for a change everybody thought the worst, but the first assessment by the doctor is that [it is not] ligaments, and if it's something in the meniscus it has to be a very small injury, so we believe it is not an important injury and hopefully it isn't because the kid is a fantastic player," Mourinho told reporters.
"A kid, but a man on the pitch. Hopefully it's nothing important and he will be ready soon."
I'm fit and well for new season, insists Terry
Chelsea captain John Terry insists he is fit and raring to go ahead of the new Premier League season.The defender was hampered throughout the back end of the previous campaign with an ankle injury, which kept him out of the Uefa Europa League final victory over Benfica.But Terry is adamant he is fully prepared for 2013-14 after taking part in all of pre-season training thus far.
"I am fit and well," he told the club's official website.
"I had the injury on my ankle at the end of last season but I came back a week early to get some extra fitness under my belt, and I think that has served me well so far in training."Everyone does their own little thing to stay fit in the summer. You tend to stay off football pitches and mainly do gym work like bikes and treadmills. Everyone keeps themselves ticking over.
"You can catch up if you don't have a good pre-season but all the time you are chasing which you don't want to be doing."The former England captain went on to say that Chelsea's training camp in Asia has been ideal to integrate the team's new signings, adding there is plenty of competition for a spot in Jose Mourinho's starting XI.
"It is a big pre-season for everyone and everyone wants to be in the team at the start of the season, and that is what we are aiming for," he added."There are new young signings too, they are obviously hungry and with points to prove and they are fighting for places as well, and competition has been very good in training.
"The new lads have settled in really well and the quality is good, and these trips definitely help that because you are in each other's pockets all day every day, so it is a great opportunity for them to get to know the other players."
Chelsea captain John Terry insists he is fit and raring to go ahead of the new Premier League season.The defender was hampered throughout the back end of the previous campaign with an ankle injury, which kept him out of the Uefa Europa League final victory over Benfica.But Terry is adamant he is fully prepared for 2013-14 after taking part in all of pre-season training thus far.
"I am fit and well," he told the club's official website.
"I had the injury on my ankle at the end of last season but I came back a week early to get some extra fitness under my belt, and I think that has served me well so far in training."Everyone does their own little thing to stay fit in the summer. You tend to stay off football pitches and mainly do gym work like bikes and treadmills. Everyone keeps themselves ticking over.
"You can catch up if you don't have a good pre-season but all the time you are chasing which you don't want to be doing."The former England captain went on to say that Chelsea's training camp in Asia has been ideal to integrate the team's new signings, adding there is plenty of competition for a spot in Jose Mourinho's starting XI.
"It is a big pre-season for everyone and everyone wants to be in the team at the start of the season, and that is what we are aiming for," he added."There are new young signings too, they are obviously hungry and with points to prove and they are fighting for places as well, and competition has been very good in training.
"The new lads have settled in really well and the quality is good, and these trips definitely help that because you are in each other's pockets all day every day, so it is a great opportunity for them to get to know the other players."
Bale will shine again for Tottenham this season - Dawson
Tottenham club captain Michael Dawson revealed he expects top scorer Gareth Bale to remain at White Hart Lane next season.
The Welshman has been linked with a record-breaking move to Real Madrid or Manchester United after a series of excellent performances last term, following his adaptation to a move from the left wing to a more versatile central attacking role.
And Dawson reinforced manager Andre Villas-Boas’ insistence that the Wales international will stay at Spurs next season, and insisted that all the team can do is focus on the season ahead.
"All you can do is concentrate individually as a team," he told Sky Sports. "Gaz is a Tottenham player and the manager has come out and said he's staying, and that's great news.
"To do what Gaz did last year was sensational, with some of the goals he scored and the points he won for us. He helped us to get to 72 points and I'm sure he'll be doing that again next year."
Bale won both the Players’ and the Football Writers’ Player of the Year awards after scoring 26 goals in all competitions last season.
Dawson admits Bale’s performances were always likely to attract attention but feels the forward will continue to impress for Spurs.
"Gaz is a great lad, he keeps his head down and the way he has been playing, he is going to have speculation. His performances in recent years have been brilliant and that's what happens," he commented.
"He'll concentrate and do what he does for Tottenham, and hopefully keep scoring goals."
Tottenham club captain Michael Dawson revealed he expects top scorer Gareth Bale to remain at White Hart Lane next season.
The Welshman has been linked with a record-breaking move to Real Madrid or Manchester United after a series of excellent performances last term, following his adaptation to a move from the left wing to a more versatile central attacking role.
And Dawson reinforced manager Andre Villas-Boas’ insistence that the Wales international will stay at Spurs next season, and insisted that all the team can do is focus on the season ahead.
"All you can do is concentrate individually as a team," he told Sky Sports. "Gaz is a Tottenham player and the manager has come out and said he's staying, and that's great news.
"To do what Gaz did last year was sensational, with some of the goals he scored and the points he won for us. He helped us to get to 72 points and I'm sure he'll be doing that again next year."
Bale won both the Players’ and the Football Writers’ Player of the Year awards after scoring 26 goals in all competitions last season.
Dawson admits Bale’s performances were always likely to attract attention but feels the forward will continue to impress for Spurs.
"Gaz is a great lad, he keeps his head down and the way he has been playing, he is going to have speculation. His performances in recent years have been brilliant and that's what happens," he commented.
"He'll concentrate and do what he does for Tottenham, and hopefully keep scoring goals."
AC Milan: Ibrahimovic return impossible
Adriano Galliani says it is "more than impossible" for Zlatan Ibrahimovic to return to AC Milan as a result of the star's exorbitant wages.
The Sweden international left San Siro for Paris Saint-Germain last summer, but has been strongly linked with a move back to Italy after the Ligue 1 champions spent €60 million on Edinson Cavani.But Milan's vice-president has moved to quash speculation suggesting he could pull on a Rossoneri jersey again next season, while revealing the club were also priced out of a move for new Roma signing Kevin Strootman.
"I think it is more than impossible for a player like Zlatan Ibrahimovic to return to Italy," he told Sky Sport Italia."He has a salary which is not compatible with the Italian league.
"He's (Strootman) a really great player. We followed him for a year too, but he cost too much and we left. At this moment, €20 million is too much for Milan."Stephan El Shaarawy is another player whose future has been the subject of much speculation after he scored 19 goals in 46 appearances for Milan last term.
Those efforts caught the eye of several clubs and Galliani revealed the Italy striker turned down a big-money move to remain at San Siro.He said: "We received a huge offer for Stephan and he said the money he earns at Milan is enough for him.
"He's a fan of this club and he is more than happy here. I'm convinced he will play a great season."
Adriano Galliani says it is "more than impossible" for Zlatan Ibrahimovic to return to AC Milan as a result of the star's exorbitant wages.
The Sweden international left San Siro for Paris Saint-Germain last summer, but has been strongly linked with a move back to Italy after the Ligue 1 champions spent €60 million on Edinson Cavani.But Milan's vice-president has moved to quash speculation suggesting he could pull on a Rossoneri jersey again next season, while revealing the club were also priced out of a move for new Roma signing Kevin Strootman.
"I think it is more than impossible for a player like Zlatan Ibrahimovic to return to Italy," he told Sky Sport Italia."He has a salary which is not compatible with the Italian league.
"He's (Strootman) a really great player. We followed him for a year too, but he cost too much and we left. At this moment, €20 million is too much for Milan."Stephan El Shaarawy is another player whose future has been the subject of much speculation after he scored 19 goals in 46 appearances for Milan last term.
Those efforts caught the eye of several clubs and Galliani revealed the Italy striker turned down a big-money move to remain at San Siro.He said: "We received a huge offer for Stephan and he said the money he earns at Milan is enough for him.
"He's a fan of this club and he is more than happy here. I'm convinced he will play a great season."
Lyon rule out Gourcuff exit
Olympique Lyonnais have stated that Yoann Gourcuff is not for sale after reported interest from Atletico Madrid and Valencia.The 27-year-old is also thought to be a transfer target of Arsenal and has been strongly linked with a move away from the Ligue 1 club after an injury troubled last season, in which he scored just three goals in 18 league appearances.
But despite the fact he has failed to replicate the form he showed at Bordeaux since moving for €22 million in 2010, Lyon are still keen to keep him at the Stade de Gerland.The club's presidential advisor Bernard Lacombe told OL TV: "Yoann Gourcuff won't leave during this transfer window. The president told me that there were opportunities, but all three parties need to be in agreement.
"The president has had, it's true, a lot of approaches, and that has enabled him to have a different point of view other than OL's and he's talked about it with Yoann. But I don't think he'll leave."
Gourcuff started his career with Rennes before having spells with AC Milan and Bordeaux prior to his move to Lyon. The attacking midfielder has also made 29 appearances for France since winning his first cap back in 2008.
Olympique Lyonnais have stated that Yoann Gourcuff is not for sale after reported interest from Atletico Madrid and Valencia.The 27-year-old is also thought to be a transfer target of Arsenal and has been strongly linked with a move away from the Ligue 1 club after an injury troubled last season, in which he scored just three goals in 18 league appearances.
But despite the fact he has failed to replicate the form he showed at Bordeaux since moving for €22 million in 2010, Lyon are still keen to keep him at the Stade de Gerland.The club's presidential advisor Bernard Lacombe told OL TV: "Yoann Gourcuff won't leave during this transfer window. The president told me that there were opportunities, but all three parties need to be in agreement.
"The president has had, it's true, a lot of approaches, and that has enabled him to have a different point of view other than OL's and he's talked about it with Yoann. But I don't think he'll leave."
Gourcuff started his career with Rennes before having spells with AC Milan and Bordeaux prior to his move to Lyon. The attacking midfielder has also made 29 appearances for France since winning his first cap back in 2008.
I want regular football at Manchester United, declares Zaha
Wilfried Zaha admits he felt starstruck after arriving at Manchester United from Crystal Palace but insists he is focused on earning a regular place in the team.
Zaha was signed by United in January but was loaned back to the Eagles until the end of the season, which finished in promotion after a play-off final victory in which he won the match-winning penalty in extra time.
The 20-year-old won the PFA Championship Player of the Year award having finished the season with eight league goals, and made his debut for the England national team in November, but insists his sole aim now is simply to earn the right to play at Old Trafford.
"For my first season the plan is to secure a first-team place," he told the club’s official website.
"I just want to be able to play regularly. If I manage to accomplish that then I can move on to other things. I’m just taking things step by step."
Zaha is now on tour with the Red Devils and struck the post as a substitute against an all-star XI in Thailand before starting United's next match against an all-star XI in Australia.
He admits he is still surprised to appear alongside players he has previously watched on TV, but insists he is focused on improving and hopes to score a goal in pre-season.
"I already think it’s a great achievement for me to be able to wear the Manchester United shirt. I’m just taking everything slowly and I hope to score a goal on the tour. That would cap everything for me," he continued.
"In the changing room I'm sitting between Ryan Giggs and Danny Welbeck, famous people who I watch all the time on TV.
"It's a dream to be able to play with them but I'm obviously here for a reason. I worked hard at Palace to get the move I wanted and I just want to prove to people that I deserve to be here."
Wilfried Zaha admits he felt starstruck after arriving at Manchester United from Crystal Palace but insists he is focused on earning a regular place in the team.
Zaha was signed by United in January but was loaned back to the Eagles until the end of the season, which finished in promotion after a play-off final victory in which he won the match-winning penalty in extra time.
The 20-year-old won the PFA Championship Player of the Year award having finished the season with eight league goals, and made his debut for the England national team in November, but insists his sole aim now is simply to earn the right to play at Old Trafford.
"For my first season the plan is to secure a first-team place," he told the club’s official website.
"I just want to be able to play regularly. If I manage to accomplish that then I can move on to other things. I’m just taking things step by step."
Zaha is now on tour with the Red Devils and struck the post as a substitute against an all-star XI in Thailand before starting United's next match against an all-star XI in Australia.
He admits he is still surprised to appear alongside players he has previously watched on TV, but insists he is focused on improving and hopes to score a goal in pre-season.
"I already think it’s a great achievement for me to be able to wear the Manchester United shirt. I’m just taking everything slowly and I hope to score a goal on the tour. That would cap everything for me," he continued.
"In the changing room I'm sitting between Ryan Giggs and Danny Welbeck, famous people who I watch all the time on TV.
"It's a dream to be able to play with them but I'm obviously here for a reason. I worked hard at Palace to get the move I wanted and I just want to prove to people that I deserve to be here."
Hiddink resigns as Anzhi boss
Anzhi Makhachkala have announced that Guus Hiddink has resigned as coach and named Rene Meulensteen his replacement.
The 66-year-old took charge of the Russian outfit in February 2012 and led the club to their best-ever league finish of third place in the Russian Premier League last season.
But the Dutch coach has opted to resign from his position, just two games into the new campaign, leaving compatriot and former Manchester United assistant coach Rene Meulensteen to take over the reigns with immediate effect.
In a statement on Anzhi's official website, Hiddink said: "This decision was not easy to me, but I've always said that my mission with Anzhi would end when the club is be able to develop and grow on itself, without my participation.
"Now it's time has come. I am convinced that the club has a great future, and I'm glad I was part of this large-scale project of football."Anzhi - who were beaten 2-1 by Dynamo Moscow in their last league outing - have moved swiftly to promote Meulensteen to the hotseat after he originally joined the club as part of Hiddink's coaching staff, while thanking Hiddink for his efforts.
"Today, the general manager of the club, Ayvaz Kaziakhmedov, introduced the players to a new head coach - Rene Meulensteen, who joined the coaching staff before the start of the season and was involved in preparing the team for the championship," the statement added."The club sincerely thank Guus Hiddink for his significant contributions to the club and wish him success in his future career."
The former Real Madrid's boss future in the game now appears uncertain. Hiddink initially announced his retirement from football in November, at the end of the Russian Premier League season, before extending his contract with Anzhi by a further season, though he may now opt to make that decision permanent.
Anzhi Makhachkala have announced that Guus Hiddink has resigned as coach and named Rene Meulensteen his replacement.
The 66-year-old took charge of the Russian outfit in February 2012 and led the club to their best-ever league finish of third place in the Russian Premier League last season.
But the Dutch coach has opted to resign from his position, just two games into the new campaign, leaving compatriot and former Manchester United assistant coach Rene Meulensteen to take over the reigns with immediate effect.
In a statement on Anzhi's official website, Hiddink said: "This decision was not easy to me, but I've always said that my mission with Anzhi would end when the club is be able to develop and grow on itself, without my participation.
"Now it's time has come. I am convinced that the club has a great future, and I'm glad I was part of this large-scale project of football."Anzhi - who were beaten 2-1 by Dynamo Moscow in their last league outing - have moved swiftly to promote Meulensteen to the hotseat after he originally joined the club as part of Hiddink's coaching staff, while thanking Hiddink for his efforts.
"Today, the general manager of the club, Ayvaz Kaziakhmedov, introduced the players to a new head coach - Rene Meulensteen, who joined the coaching staff before the start of the season and was involved in preparing the team for the championship," the statement added."The club sincerely thank Guus Hiddink for his significant contributions to the club and wish him success in his future career."
The former Real Madrid's boss future in the game now appears uncertain. Hiddink initially announced his retirement from football in November, at the end of the Russian Premier League season, before extending his contract with Anzhi by a further season, though he may now opt to make that decision permanent.
Napoli to bid more than €35m for Arsenal target Higuain
Napoli will bid more than €35 million for Gonzalo Higuain this week, Goal understands.
The Serie A club are planning to use the proceeds of the €60m Edinson Cavani sale to capture a proven centre-forward in the coming weeks.
Napoli moved for the Real Madrid striker earlier in the window and have turned their attention back to the 25-year-old after failing to prise Leandro Damiao from Internacional.
Higuain came close to joining Arsenal earlier in July, with the Gunners offering €27m to prise him from the Santiago Bernabeu as well as agreeing personal terms with the player.But Real Madrid held out for a higher price and Arsene Wenger switched his attention to capturing Luis Suarez from Liverpool after learning the Uruguayan was interested in a move to Emirates Stadium.
Napoli are now in pole position to capture Higuain but there are still a number of hurdles to be overcome before a deal is agreed. Although Madrid have claimed Higuain is not for sale amid reports of a deal having been completed, Goal understands the Spanish club would accept an offer slightly above the €35m mark.
"Higuain to Napoli a done deal? Not true, I don't have any news about this," Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti told reporters after his side's 6-0 friendly win over Bournemouth on Sunday.
"We still have to speak about Higuain as a Real Madrid player at this point."It is believed that Napoli will bid around €37m for the striker and a deal could be agreed quickly if negotiations over the player's image rights can be settled.
Higuain has two years remaining on a Nike sponsorship deal worth around €1.7m-a-year but Napoli would prefer to take control of his image rights and pay him a more lucrative salary.
The forward earns a relatively modest €74,000-a-week at Real and Napoli are set to offer him a deal in line with the €116,000-a-week starting salary he had agreed with Arsenal.
Wenger is still monitoring Higuain's situation but plans to bring him to Emirates Stadium are on the backburner as the Frenchman attempts to land Suarez for €47m in a deal that would smash the club transfer record.
Napoli will bid more than €35 million for Gonzalo Higuain this week, Goal understands.
The Serie A club are planning to use the proceeds of the €60m Edinson Cavani sale to capture a proven centre-forward in the coming weeks.
Napoli moved for the Real Madrid striker earlier in the window and have turned their attention back to the 25-year-old after failing to prise Leandro Damiao from Internacional.
Higuain came close to joining Arsenal earlier in July, with the Gunners offering €27m to prise him from the Santiago Bernabeu as well as agreeing personal terms with the player.But Real Madrid held out for a higher price and Arsene Wenger switched his attention to capturing Luis Suarez from Liverpool after learning the Uruguayan was interested in a move to Emirates Stadium.
Napoli are now in pole position to capture Higuain but there are still a number of hurdles to be overcome before a deal is agreed. Although Madrid have claimed Higuain is not for sale amid reports of a deal having been completed, Goal understands the Spanish club would accept an offer slightly above the €35m mark.
"Higuain to Napoli a done deal? Not true, I don't have any news about this," Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti told reporters after his side's 6-0 friendly win over Bournemouth on Sunday.
"We still have to speak about Higuain as a Real Madrid player at this point."It is believed that Napoli will bid around €37m for the striker and a deal could be agreed quickly if negotiations over the player's image rights can be settled.
Higuain has two years remaining on a Nike sponsorship deal worth around €1.7m-a-year but Napoli would prefer to take control of his image rights and pay him a more lucrative salary.
The forward earns a relatively modest €74,000-a-week at Real and Napoli are set to offer him a deal in line with the €116,000-a-week starting salary he had agreed with Arsenal.
Wenger is still monitoring Higuain's situation but plans to bring him to Emirates Stadium are on the backburner as the Frenchman attempts to land Suarez for €47m in a deal that would smash the club transfer record.
Thiago bids farewell to Barcelona in emotional open letter
Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara has bid goodbye to former club Barcelona in an open letter posted on Twitter.
The Spain international completed his move to the Bundesliga champions after turning down the chance to move to Manchester United, but he admitted that it was hard for him to leave Camp Nou.
"I leave the house that I spent 14 years at…it was a difficult decision, tough. Eras come to an end and there are changes now ahead," he stated."Today I have the same enthusiasm for playing football as when I arrived at Barcelona as a child. And that ambition, enthusiasm and those sporting circumstances have led me to Munich.
"In Barcelona I grew as a player and as a person. It sounds clichéd, and it is what is said in these situations, but it is really the case. I want to thank each and every person at the club. Barca and the people there have given me everything, I have grown, matured and have learned from both good and bad situations."Team-mates, technical staff, employees, fans, above all, you, the fans…who are great for this club in victory and defeat. To all of you, thank you for the years.
Thanks to those who supported me in the more difficult moments. All of the love I received I will take with me to this new adventure."The 22-year-old also had a message for Tito Vilanova, who stepped down as Barca manager on Friday to continue his fight against cancer.
"And you, Tito, a fighter…as we told Abi [Eric Abidal]: 'Stones in the road? Keep them all, one day you will build a castle'. No doubt you will continue to move forward."A grateful hug and long live Barca!"
Thiago had earlier spoken to the press in Munich, refuting suggestions that he may suffer from a culture shock in his early days in Germany.
"On the contrary, things here are pretty similar to Barcelona," he was quoted as saying by TZ.
"I had some amazing players around me right from the start at Barcelona and that's the case here as well. That makes things very easy for a new and young player like me."
Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara has bid goodbye to former club Barcelona in an open letter posted on Twitter.
The Spain international completed his move to the Bundesliga champions after turning down the chance to move to Manchester United, but he admitted that it was hard for him to leave Camp Nou.
"I leave the house that I spent 14 years at…it was a difficult decision, tough. Eras come to an end and there are changes now ahead," he stated."Today I have the same enthusiasm for playing football as when I arrived at Barcelona as a child. And that ambition, enthusiasm and those sporting circumstances have led me to Munich.
"In Barcelona I grew as a player and as a person. It sounds clichéd, and it is what is said in these situations, but it is really the case. I want to thank each and every person at the club. Barca and the people there have given me everything, I have grown, matured and have learned from both good and bad situations."Team-mates, technical staff, employees, fans, above all, you, the fans…who are great for this club in victory and defeat. To all of you, thank you for the years.
Thanks to those who supported me in the more difficult moments. All of the love I received I will take with me to this new adventure."The 22-year-old also had a message for Tito Vilanova, who stepped down as Barca manager on Friday to continue his fight against cancer.
"And you, Tito, a fighter…as we told Abi [Eric Abidal]: 'Stones in the road? Keep them all, one day you will build a castle'. No doubt you will continue to move forward."A grateful hug and long live Barca!"
Thiago had earlier spoken to the press in Munich, refuting suggestions that he may suffer from a culture shock in his early days in Germany.
"On the contrary, things here are pretty similar to Barcelona," he was quoted as saying by TZ.
"I had some amazing players around me right from the start at Barcelona and that's the case here as well. That makes things very easy for a new and young player like me."
Gattuso eyes Milan hotseat
Palermo boss Gennaro Gattuso has revealed he would like to return to AC Milan to become the club's coach in the future.
The 35-year-old left San Siro in 2012 after 13 successful years as a player with the Rossoneri, joining Swiss side FC Sion firstly as a player and then in a coaching capacity last season.
He was ultimately sacked in May after just three months in charge of the club, before the relegated Rosanero gave Gattuso the opportunity to head their bid to make an instant return to Serie A next season.
"I would be hypocritical if I said that one day I would like to return to Milan. I still have a lot of work to do before I can get to that bench. I try not to think about it at the moment," he told Republic.
Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini is the man responsible for appointing Gattuso to the Palermo hotseat, but despite his reputation as a ruthless operator after sacking 50 different coaches in his 27 years in the game, the former Italy international insists they enjoy a healthy relationship.
He added: "With Zamparini there is a great relationship. I am confident that the results will give me a long professional life with him.
"I have to think about winning the Serie B title where all the opponents are waiting for us at the gate. This is my challenge."
Palermo boss Gennaro Gattuso has revealed he would like to return to AC Milan to become the club's coach in the future.
The 35-year-old left San Siro in 2012 after 13 successful years as a player with the Rossoneri, joining Swiss side FC Sion firstly as a player and then in a coaching capacity last season.
He was ultimately sacked in May after just three months in charge of the club, before the relegated Rosanero gave Gattuso the opportunity to head their bid to make an instant return to Serie A next season.
"I would be hypocritical if I said that one day I would like to return to Milan. I still have a lot of work to do before I can get to that bench. I try not to think about it at the moment," he told Republic.
Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini is the man responsible for appointing Gattuso to the Palermo hotseat, but despite his reputation as a ruthless operator after sacking 50 different coaches in his 27 years in the game, the former Italy international insists they enjoy a healthy relationship.
He added: "With Zamparini there is a great relationship. I am confident that the results will give me a long professional life with him.
"I have to think about winning the Serie B title where all the opponents are waiting for us at the gate. This is my challenge."
Nagoya Grampus 1–3 Arsenal: Giroud on target again as Gunners win in Japan
Arsenal picked up their third win of their pre-season tour, and their first of their two matches in Japan, with a 3-1 win over Nagoya Grampus.
Olivier Giroud continued his fine early season form with his sixth goal of the tour so far, while local favourite Ryo Miyaichi delighted the huge crowd with a penalty and Theo Walcott added a third before the hosts pulled one back.
The Gunners began the game quickly with Giroud on the scoresheet after just three minutes.
Carl Jenkinson began the move, finding Rosicky on the right and his superb cross on the run was headed powerfully home by the Frenchman.
A second nearly followed immediately with Walcott going down in the box under pressure, but denied a penalty before Miyaichi slashed a shot wide of the goal.
After continuing to dominate the early exchanges, however, it did not take Arsenal too long to double their lead.
Mid-way through the first half. Giroud was involved once again, his cut-back to Miyaichi clearly handled in the area, with the referee pointing straight to the spot.
Up stepped Miyaichi, to a huge roar from the fans, the 20-year-old smashing home a fine penalty kick to double Arsenal’s lead.
Yet for all the visitors' good work, they were a little fortunate not to concede just before half-time with the hosts fashioning two fine chances, only to be denied by poor finishing.
Yoshizumi Ogawa was the culprit, first heading a great chance straight at Fabianski, when unmarked, before moment later scuffing another effort goalwards when clean through.
Predictably the Gunners made changes at half-time, with Jack Wilshere introduced and two further substitutes Serge Gnabry and Lukas Podolski combining to good effect immediately.
Podolski showed neat feet in the area to set up his countryman but he could not find the finish to match, firing wide of the near post from close range.
Substitute Gnabry then brought the crowd to its feet, throwing in a step over and beating two players before aiming a shot that was millimetres away from nestling in the top corner.
A minute later and the ball was in the back of the net again though, this time set up by another substitute, 16-year-old Gedion Zelalem.
The teenager picked out Walcott in the box with a glorious pass allowing the England international, wasteful until that point, to take a touch before dinking the ball over the goalkeeper.
The chances continued to come with Wilshere and Walcott denied by some good goalkeeping before the hosts managed to grab a consolation.
A corner was swung in from the right by Tanko and found Yano in between centre-backs Mertesacker and Sagna, who headed home strongly.
Wenger then opted to throw on youngsters Chuba Akpom and Chuks Aneke who, along with Zelalem and Gnabry, looked hugely promising as the Gunners saw out the rest of the game comfortably.
Arsenal picked up their third win of their pre-season tour, and their first of their two matches in Japan, with a 3-1 win over Nagoya Grampus.
Olivier Giroud continued his fine early season form with his sixth goal of the tour so far, while local favourite Ryo Miyaichi delighted the huge crowd with a penalty and Theo Walcott added a third before the hosts pulled one back.
The Gunners began the game quickly with Giroud on the scoresheet after just three minutes.
Carl Jenkinson began the move, finding Rosicky on the right and his superb cross on the run was headed powerfully home by the Frenchman.
A second nearly followed immediately with Walcott going down in the box under pressure, but denied a penalty before Miyaichi slashed a shot wide of the goal.
After continuing to dominate the early exchanges, however, it did not take Arsenal too long to double their lead.
Mid-way through the first half. Giroud was involved once again, his cut-back to Miyaichi clearly handled in the area, with the referee pointing straight to the spot.
Up stepped Miyaichi, to a huge roar from the fans, the 20-year-old smashing home a fine penalty kick to double Arsenal’s lead.
Yet for all the visitors' good work, they were a little fortunate not to concede just before half-time with the hosts fashioning two fine chances, only to be denied by poor finishing.
Yoshizumi Ogawa was the culprit, first heading a great chance straight at Fabianski, when unmarked, before moment later scuffing another effort goalwards when clean through.
Predictably the Gunners made changes at half-time, with Jack Wilshere introduced and two further substitutes Serge Gnabry and Lukas Podolski combining to good effect immediately.
Podolski showed neat feet in the area to set up his countryman but he could not find the finish to match, firing wide of the near post from close range.
Substitute Gnabry then brought the crowd to its feet, throwing in a step over and beating two players before aiming a shot that was millimetres away from nestling in the top corner.
A minute later and the ball was in the back of the net again though, this time set up by another substitute, 16-year-old Gedion Zelalem.
The teenager picked out Walcott in the box with a glorious pass allowing the England international, wasteful until that point, to take a touch before dinking the ball over the goalkeeper.
The chances continued to come with Wilshere and Walcott denied by some good goalkeeping before the hosts managed to grab a consolation.
A corner was swung in from the right by Tanko and found Yano in between centre-backs Mertesacker and Sagna, who headed home strongly.
Wenger then opted to throw on youngsters Chuba Akpom and Chuks Aneke who, along with Zelalem and Gnabry, looked hugely promising as the Gunners saw out the rest of the game comfortably.
Villas-Boas eyes further Tottenham additions
Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas insists the club are still on the lookout to bolster their ranks ahead of the new season.
Spurs look set to complete the signing of Belgian winger Nacer Chadli after confirming they have agreed a deal with FC Twente.
Roberto Soldado is thought to be of interest to Tottenham, after missing out on David Villa and Christian Benteke, although Valencia are keen to finalise all business around the beginning of August.
"We will continue to do our market and we have not stopped yet, for sure," Villas-Boas told reporters.
And of Belgium winger Chadli, the Tottenham manager added: "Chadli's a player we've been following for quite some time and we managed to strike a deal in the last few days.
"He's a player who is extremely versatile and can play in several positions up front. He played with tremendous success on the left for Twente as a winger and as an attacker for Belgium. We look forward to having him on board with us."
Tottenham will continue their pre-season preparations in Hong Kong for the Barclays Asia Trophy, where they will face Sunderland on Wednesday following two friendlies against League One opponents Swindon and Colchester.
"We face a good level of opposition next in Sunderland, we had a really tough game against them at White Hart Lane at the end of last season," Villas-Boas told the club's official website after Friday’s goalless draw at Colchester.
"We know it will be difficult because of the conditions in Hong Kong, but it is the same for both teams. Hopefully we will continue to step up and try to get through to the final."
And Villas-Boas says he will continue to put his side through their paces this pre-season ahead of their opening fixture against Crystal Palace on August 18.
"We still have to train," he added. "We’ll continue with the double sessions, the main focus for the team is to build physically.
"The players have been excellent in their work. Now we go up a level in opposition in Hong Kong and that gives them extra motivation. At the moment, I’m extremely happy with how it’s going."
Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas insists the club are still on the lookout to bolster their ranks ahead of the new season.
Spurs look set to complete the signing of Belgian winger Nacer Chadli after confirming they have agreed a deal with FC Twente.
Roberto Soldado is thought to be of interest to Tottenham, after missing out on David Villa and Christian Benteke, although Valencia are keen to finalise all business around the beginning of August.
"We will continue to do our market and we have not stopped yet, for sure," Villas-Boas told reporters.
And of Belgium winger Chadli, the Tottenham manager added: "Chadli's a player we've been following for quite some time and we managed to strike a deal in the last few days.
"He's a player who is extremely versatile and can play in several positions up front. He played with tremendous success on the left for Twente as a winger and as an attacker for Belgium. We look forward to having him on board with us."
Tottenham will continue their pre-season preparations in Hong Kong for the Barclays Asia Trophy, where they will face Sunderland on Wednesday following two friendlies against League One opponents Swindon and Colchester.
"We face a good level of opposition next in Sunderland, we had a really tough game against them at White Hart Lane at the end of last season," Villas-Boas told the club's official website after Friday’s goalless draw at Colchester.
"We know it will be difficult because of the conditions in Hong Kong, but it is the same for both teams. Hopefully we will continue to step up and try to get through to the final."
And Villas-Boas says he will continue to put his side through their paces this pre-season ahead of their opening fixture against Crystal Palace on August 18.
"We still have to train," he added. "We’ll continue with the double sessions, the main focus for the team is to build physically.
"The players have been excellent in their work. Now we go up a level in opposition in Hong Kong and that gives them extra motivation. At the moment, I’m extremely happy with how it’s going."
Van Persie: Manchester United are as strong as ever under Moyes
Robin van Persie insists Manchester United have kept their motivation to win under David Moyes following Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement.
The new manager began his Red Devils reign with a shock 1-0 loss to Thailand All-Stars on July 14 but registered his first win with a 5-1 triumph over A-League All Stars, in which the striker scored after coming on as a late substitute.
Van Persie notched 30 goals in his debut season at United, with Moyes underlining his importance to the squad on Friday, and does not expect any drop in form from himself or his team-mates under the new regime.
"What matters to us is the way that we work. Trust me, we will work very hard," he told reporters.
"It’s a huge challenge to all of us and it’s one we’re looking forward to. Everyone wants to be successful. Moyes wants to be successful. He’s been working very hard and he’s spoken to every single player individually.
"It’s his first couple of weeks so let’s get to know each other. It looks very good. Moyes is very nice. He works very well. It’s only based on a few sessions, but I loved them."
The 29-year-old admitted there is a new feel to the club following Sir Alex's retirement, but says the team must concentrate given their rivals' improvements over the summer.
He continued: "It’s different. Of course it was a great season last time. It was my first year with him and the first year at the club I had with him. It was a great year for the club and we all did great things together.
"But now it’s a new year and I’m very much looking forward to it with a new manager and great new staff. For now we have the same players. Last season we won the league and that was great, but this time we want to win the league and more as well.
"We have to improve to stay ahead, because over the last few years the English league has become better and better. Every single team has got harder to beat. When you go away you have to perform 100 per cent otherwise you may lose."
Robin van Persie insists Manchester United have kept their motivation to win under David Moyes following Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement.
The new manager began his Red Devils reign with a shock 1-0 loss to Thailand All-Stars on July 14 but registered his first win with a 5-1 triumph over A-League All Stars, in which the striker scored after coming on as a late substitute.
Van Persie notched 30 goals in his debut season at United, with Moyes underlining his importance to the squad on Friday, and does not expect any drop in form from himself or his team-mates under the new regime.
"What matters to us is the way that we work. Trust me, we will work very hard," he told reporters.
"It’s a huge challenge to all of us and it’s one we’re looking forward to. Everyone wants to be successful. Moyes wants to be successful. He’s been working very hard and he’s spoken to every single player individually.
"It’s his first couple of weeks so let’s get to know each other. It looks very good. Moyes is very nice. He works very well. It’s only based on a few sessions, but I loved them."
The 29-year-old admitted there is a new feel to the club following Sir Alex's retirement, but says the team must concentrate given their rivals' improvements over the summer.
He continued: "It’s different. Of course it was a great season last time. It was my first year with him and the first year at the club I had with him. It was a great year for the club and we all did great things together.
"But now it’s a new year and I’m very much looking forward to it with a new manager and great new staff. For now we have the same players. Last season we won the league and that was great, but this time we want to win the league and more as well.
"We have to improve to stay ahead, because over the last few years the English league has become better and better. Every single team has got harder to beat. When you go away you have to perform 100 per cent otherwise you may lose."
Manchester United can forget about signing Ronaldo, says Mourinho
Jose Mourinho has told Manchester United manager David Moyes to forget about trying to bring Cristiano Ronaldo back to Old Trafford.
The Red Devils were reportedly looking into bringing the Portuguese ace back to Old Trafford, despite new Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti insisting Ronaldo was not for sale.
But former Blancos coach Mourinho has put a dampener on talk of a potential deal by declaring that the Liga giants are unlikely to allow the 28-year-old to leave since their financial muscle means they will not be pressured into a sale.
"What I know is that Real Madrid is such a rich club that they don't need to sell Cristiano," Mourinho, who shares the same agent - Jorge Mendes - as the former Manchester United star, told reporters.
"And [Madrid] are such a rich club I think they can swallow up any offer another club can make for Ronaldo.
"I know Ronaldo loves Manchester United and I know he loves the Premier League but I think he is going to stay.
"It's just a feeling. I've had no contact with him, nothing. It's just my feeling."
Jose Mourinho has told Manchester United manager David Moyes to forget about trying to bring Cristiano Ronaldo back to Old Trafford.
The Red Devils were reportedly looking into bringing the Portuguese ace back to Old Trafford, despite new Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti insisting Ronaldo was not for sale.
But former Blancos coach Mourinho has put a dampener on talk of a potential deal by declaring that the Liga giants are unlikely to allow the 28-year-old to leave since their financial muscle means they will not be pressured into a sale.
"What I know is that Real Madrid is such a rich club that they don't need to sell Cristiano," Mourinho, who shares the same agent - Jorge Mendes - as the former Manchester United star, told reporters.
"And [Madrid] are such a rich club I think they can swallow up any offer another club can make for Ronaldo.
"I know Ronaldo loves Manchester United and I know he loves the Premier League but I think he is going to stay.
"It's just a feeling. I've had no contact with him, nothing. It's just my feeling."
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