Latest ads
-
Video Content Creator
- pramukag
- Updated:
-
QA Engineer Intern
- pramukag
- Updated:
-
Sell your Land, House on idamata.lk for FREE
- sajith.xp.pk
- Updated:
-
Handmade Character Soft Toys- anil1961
- Updated:
-
Bodim.lk out now !- Manoj Suranga Bandara
- Updated:
..::Football III::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
- Start date
- Status
Chadli: Tottenham were the right club for me
Tottenham new-boy Nacer Chadli is delighted to have made the move to White Hart Lane and is looking forward to showcasing his ability in the Premier League.
The 23-year-old, who believes the north London club are the perfect fit for him, secured a €8 million move from Twente last week, and has vowed to give everything to help Spurs push on next season.
"I'm very happy. I was expecting a good transfer this summer and I got it," he told the club's official website.
"I was waiting quite a lot, but I'm happy to join the Spurs. I will do my best to make the fans and the club happy.
"For me, it was always a dream to play in the Premier League, but I wanted to play for the right club. At some clubs they wanted me this summer, but Tottenham Hotspur was the best choice for me and the best club where I can fit in.
"I played three years ago against them and I was very impressed about the club, the stadium and the fact they play in the Premier League."
Chadli, who spent three years in Enschede with Twente, scored 10 goals and assisted a further five in 22 Eredivisie appearances last season.
Tottenham new-boy Nacer Chadli is delighted to have made the move to White Hart Lane and is looking forward to showcasing his ability in the Premier League.
The 23-year-old, who believes the north London club are the perfect fit for him, secured a €8 million move from Twente last week, and has vowed to give everything to help Spurs push on next season.
"I'm very happy. I was expecting a good transfer this summer and I got it," he told the club's official website.
"I was waiting quite a lot, but I'm happy to join the Spurs. I will do my best to make the fans and the club happy.
"For me, it was always a dream to play in the Premier League, but I wanted to play for the right club. At some clubs they wanted me this summer, but Tottenham Hotspur was the best choice for me and the best club where I can fit in.
"I played three years ago against them and I was very impressed about the club, the stadium and the fact they play in the Premier League."
Chadli, who spent three years in Enschede with Twente, scored 10 goals and assisted a further five in 22 Eredivisie appearances last season.
New-boy Soldado hopes 'great' Bale will stay at Tottenham
Tottenham-bound Roberto Soldado is hoping the north London club can resist Real Madrid's move for Gareth Bale so he can line up alongside the Wales international this season.
The 28-year-old striker will link up with Andre Villas-Boas' side subject to a medical and, having already turned his attentions to his new colleagues, hopes Spurs can keep Bale at White Hart Lane.
He told reporters: “I think everybody knows about Gareth Bale. He’s a great player and that’s why Tottenham are making it so difficult for him to leave. Of course, I hope that he stays with Spurs.”
Soldado also hit out at Valencia's president in a parting shot aimed at los Che's hierarchy, slamming the manner in which Amadeo Salvo has run the club.
He continued: "I’m leaving Valencia because I do not believe in, nor do I trust their sporting project. Right from the first moment I spoke to the president, I had made my mind up to go. Salvo lied to me many times, and that hurt me and my agents, who are like family to me.
"The newspapers have published malicious untruths which were filtered to the press by him. I don’t like the way he deals with things; I really hope he proves me wrong and starts a new successful era at the club."
One of the main reasons he is not a supporter of Salvo's sporting project is the need to sell top players to help fund the club, but by the same token, he is pleased his €30 million sale will benefit their finances.
He added: "I think the deal is good for both clubs. I would like to say sorry to the fans for failing to complete my contract. I would have liked to have ended my playing days here but I was confronted with a hurdle which made me think again. I wish Valencia all the very best."
Tottenham-bound Roberto Soldado is hoping the north London club can resist Real Madrid's move for Gareth Bale so he can line up alongside the Wales international this season.
The 28-year-old striker will link up with Andre Villas-Boas' side subject to a medical and, having already turned his attentions to his new colleagues, hopes Spurs can keep Bale at White Hart Lane.
He told reporters: “I think everybody knows about Gareth Bale. He’s a great player and that’s why Tottenham are making it so difficult for him to leave. Of course, I hope that he stays with Spurs.”
Soldado also hit out at Valencia's president in a parting shot aimed at los Che's hierarchy, slamming the manner in which Amadeo Salvo has run the club.
He continued: "I’m leaving Valencia because I do not believe in, nor do I trust their sporting project. Right from the first moment I spoke to the president, I had made my mind up to go. Salvo lied to me many times, and that hurt me and my agents, who are like family to me.
"The newspapers have published malicious untruths which were filtered to the press by him. I don’t like the way he deals with things; I really hope he proves me wrong and starts a new successful era at the club."
One of the main reasons he is not a supporter of Salvo's sporting project is the need to sell top players to help fund the club, but by the same token, he is pleased his €30 million sale will benefit their finances.
He added: "I think the deal is good for both clubs. I would like to say sorry to the fans for failing to complete my contract. I would have liked to have ended my playing days here but I was confronted with a hurdle which made me think again. I wish Valencia all the very best."
'Bayern Munich are ready' - Guardiola
Pep Guardiola says Bayern Munich are ready to defend their status as German and European champions following a successful pre-season where they won the Audi Cup, beating Manchester City 2-1 in the final.
Die Roten racked up an incredible 65 goals in pre-season friendlies, culminating in Mario Mandzukic's winner after Thomas Muller had levelled from the spot following Alvaro Negredo's opener for Manuel Pellegrini's men on Thursday.
And, with a DFB-Pokal first round clash against Schwarz-Weiss Rehden to come followed by the Bundesliga opener against Borussia Monchengladbach, the Spaniard believes his side are ready for the challenge which lies ahead.
"I am satisfied. During the first half we played well. During the second half it became clear that this was our second game in two days," Guardiola told reporters, adding: "We are ready."
Muller, who netted 13 times in the Bundesliga last season and scored the crucial equaliser against City, also feels the club are suitably prepared for the start of the new campaign.
"We are at a good level," he said. "But, against a top team like Manchester City, we have problems at preventing any scoring chances just as any other [side] would."
Pep Guardiola says Bayern Munich are ready to defend their status as German and European champions following a successful pre-season where they won the Audi Cup, beating Manchester City 2-1 in the final.
Die Roten racked up an incredible 65 goals in pre-season friendlies, culminating in Mario Mandzukic's winner after Thomas Muller had levelled from the spot following Alvaro Negredo's opener for Manuel Pellegrini's men on Thursday.
And, with a DFB-Pokal first round clash against Schwarz-Weiss Rehden to come followed by the Bundesliga opener against Borussia Monchengladbach, the Spaniard believes his side are ready for the challenge which lies ahead.
"I am satisfied. During the first half we played well. During the second half it became clear that this was our second game in two days," Guardiola told reporters, adding: "We are ready."
Muller, who netted 13 times in the Bundesliga last season and scored the crucial equaliser against City, also feels the club are suitably prepared for the start of the new campaign.
"We are at a good level," he said. "But, against a top team like Manchester City, we have problems at preventing any scoring chances just as any other [side] would."
Barcelona insist Alexis Sanchez is not for sale
Barcelona vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu has reiterated the club's position on forward Alexis Sanchez, insisting he is not for sale.
Alexis, 24, move to Camp Nou two years ago from Udinese in a deal worth €26 million, but has found it difficult to live up to the expectations and scored only eight Liga goals last season.
However, the forward - the first Chilean to play for the Catalan giants - has not stopped attracting interest from suitors, with Napoli the latest to be linked with the forward, but Barca's vice-president insists he will remain at Camp Nou this summer.
"He's not for sale," he told El Mercurio. "We are confident in his ability. It is speculated so much that he might leave, but there is nothing - no formal offers have arrived for the player and he will remain here.
"We are pleased with his performances and we will not put him on the market."
Alexis has already admitted that he was disappointed with how last year went personally and faces more competition for his place with Barca adding marquee signing Neymar to the squad in June.
But, with four goals scored in his last five league games towards the end of the last season, the signs are positive and Alexis is determined to fight for his first-team role.
The attacker has a contract with Barca until June 2016 while another winger Cristian Tello extended his deal with the Blaugrana until 2018 on Thursday.
Barcelona vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu has reiterated the club's position on forward Alexis Sanchez, insisting he is not for sale.
Alexis, 24, move to Camp Nou two years ago from Udinese in a deal worth €26 million, but has found it difficult to live up to the expectations and scored only eight Liga goals last season.
However, the forward - the first Chilean to play for the Catalan giants - has not stopped attracting interest from suitors, with Napoli the latest to be linked with the forward, but Barca's vice-president insists he will remain at Camp Nou this summer.
"He's not for sale," he told El Mercurio. "We are confident in his ability. It is speculated so much that he might leave, but there is nothing - no formal offers have arrived for the player and he will remain here.
"We are pleased with his performances and we will not put him on the market."
Alexis has already admitted that he was disappointed with how last year went personally and faces more competition for his place with Barca adding marquee signing Neymar to the squad in June.
But, with four goals scored in his last five league games towards the end of the last season, the signs are positive and Alexis is determined to fight for his first-team role.
The attacker has a contract with Barca until June 2016 while another winger Cristian Tello extended his deal with the Blaugrana until 2018 on Thursday.
Klopp: Lewandowski-Dortmund feud ends now
Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp says he wants to end the ongoing feud with wantaway striker Robert Lewandowski.The Poland international has insisted the club have went back on their word and that he also feels "cheated" out of a move to Bayern Munich, who have admitted strong interest in the striker this summer.
However, with the new season approaching and with the 24-year-old still with a year to go on his contract, Klopp says it is time to end the saga and focus on the coming campaign with Dortmund."Whatever is left to be discussed will be discussed internally," the 46-year-old told reporters."The idea is to close this subject. Everything is in order. Nothing has changed since yesterday or the day before yesterday."I am convinced we will clear up everything in the coming days."
The striker became the first ever player to score four goals in a Champions League semi-final last year as BVB beat Real Madrid 4-1 in the first leg at Signal Iduna Park.His prolific goalscoring exploits were not confined to European football, however, as he slotted another 24 goals in the Bundesliga - coming second to Bayer Leverkusen's Stefan Kiessling in top scorers' chart.
Despite the summer rift, though, Klopp is not concerned that it will have a detrimental impact on Lewandowski's performances for die Schwarzgelben.He added: "For me what he does [on the pitch] is a thousand times more important than what he says, because, what he does needs no interpretation."
Dortmund kick-off their Bundesliga campaign against Augsburg on August 10, but face Wilhelmshaven this Saturday in the DFB-Pokal first round.
Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp says he wants to end the ongoing feud with wantaway striker Robert Lewandowski.The Poland international has insisted the club have went back on their word and that he also feels "cheated" out of a move to Bayern Munich, who have admitted strong interest in the striker this summer.
However, with the new season approaching and with the 24-year-old still with a year to go on his contract, Klopp says it is time to end the saga and focus on the coming campaign with Dortmund."Whatever is left to be discussed will be discussed internally," the 46-year-old told reporters."The idea is to close this subject. Everything is in order. Nothing has changed since yesterday or the day before yesterday."I am convinced we will clear up everything in the coming days."
The striker became the first ever player to score four goals in a Champions League semi-final last year as BVB beat Real Madrid 4-1 in the first leg at Signal Iduna Park.His prolific goalscoring exploits were not confined to European football, however, as he slotted another 24 goals in the Bundesliga - coming second to Bayer Leverkusen's Stefan Kiessling in top scorers' chart.
Despite the summer rift, though, Klopp is not concerned that it will have a detrimental impact on Lewandowski's performances for die Schwarzgelben.He added: "For me what he does [on the pitch] is a thousand times more important than what he says, because, what he does needs no interpretation."
Dortmund kick-off their Bundesliga campaign against Augsburg on August 10, but face Wilhelmshaven this Saturday in the DFB-Pokal first round.
Schmeichel: Lingard and Keane ready for Manchester United breakthrough
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has tipped both Jesse Lingard and Michael Keane to make a breakthrough this upcoming season.
The duo impressed the Dane during both their spells on loan at Leicester City last season. Schmeichel closely follows the Foxes' fortunes as his son, Kasper Schmeichel, is the club's first-team goalkeeper.
The former United man has also followed their recent performances on the Red Devils' pre-season tour of Asia and feels they could be ready for a step up into David Moyes' first-team squad.
"David Moyes will be pleased in the way that some players have grasped their opportunity," he told the club's official website.
"I’m thinking about Jesse Lingard who is coming home from the tour as top goalscorer. "He had a very brief stay at Leicester and it didn’t really come off for him but he played for the Reserves again and was the best player in the Reserves squad.
Maybe - just maybe - this is his opportunity and this is his year. It’s very interesting and, again, something for David to make a decision about."I feel this game against AIK is the last opportunity where he can really have a feel about the team and try out one or two combinations so it’s a big game for David and a big game for the players.
"Michael Keane had a really good season with Leicester and was very successful with them, Jesse less so, but they can work towards the same goal, having that experience makes players think about the future and which role they can have. "No doubt about it - Michael is a very, very talented young man and Nemanja Vidic not travelling gave him an opportunity but I think, when the whole squad comes together in Stockholm, David will be spoiled for choice and he’s got to find the right combination."
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has tipped both Jesse Lingard and Michael Keane to make a breakthrough this upcoming season.
The duo impressed the Dane during both their spells on loan at Leicester City last season. Schmeichel closely follows the Foxes' fortunes as his son, Kasper Schmeichel, is the club's first-team goalkeeper.
The former United man has also followed their recent performances on the Red Devils' pre-season tour of Asia and feels they could be ready for a step up into David Moyes' first-team squad.
"David Moyes will be pleased in the way that some players have grasped their opportunity," he told the club's official website.
"I’m thinking about Jesse Lingard who is coming home from the tour as top goalscorer. "He had a very brief stay at Leicester and it didn’t really come off for him but he played for the Reserves again and was the best player in the Reserves squad.
Maybe - just maybe - this is his opportunity and this is his year. It’s very interesting and, again, something for David to make a decision about."I feel this game against AIK is the last opportunity where he can really have a feel about the team and try out one or two combinations so it’s a big game for David and a big game for the players.
"Michael Keane had a really good season with Leicester and was very successful with them, Jesse less so, but they can work towards the same goal, having that experience makes players think about the future and which role they can have. "No doubt about it - Michael is a very, very talented young man and Nemanja Vidic not travelling gave him an opportunity but I think, when the whole squad comes together in Stockholm, David will be spoiled for choice and he’s got to find the right combination."
Suarez going nowhere, says Liverpool chief Ayre
Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre says the club's position on wantaway forward Luis Suarez has not changed and reiterated the desire to keep him at Anfield.
As exclusively revealed by Goal, the Uruguay international has been the subject of two club record bids from Arsenal, the second of which amounted to £42 million, and is eager to leave Merseyside.
Suarez has since returned to pre-season training, and featured in Liverpool's pre-season fixture against Melbourne Victory in Australia, and Ayre insists he is going nowhere.
He told Sky Sports: "We've got Luis Suarez in our squad, he'll have trained today and he's working hard.
"Despite what people think we've not had an intention of selling Luis, we've never said we want to sell Luis.
"He continues to work hard and train hard for Liverpool. That will continue and I'll expect him to be here at the start of the season."
Ayre confirmed that the Arsene Wenger has made two approaches for Liverpool's star striker, but rejected the bids out of hand.
He continued: "It's not something we're interested in and, as our fans would expect, we rejected both. The player is not available for sale - that's where we are and that's where we'll stay.
"I wish I had £1 for everyone that's stopped me in the street saying 'make sure Luis stays'. That's what we're doing."
Since Suarez's return to the fold, the managing director has been impressed with his professionalism and was delighted with the reception the fans gave him.
Ayre added: "I don't think his demeanour has changed - he's been a professional throughout. It's just business as usual.
"Luis was on the back end of tour with us. He joined us in Melbourne, and seeing the fantastic support and adulation, nobody will know more than Luis how much he's loved by this football club.
"I'm sure he's going to stay - that's always been our ambition and that's what we expect to achieve."
Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre says the club's position on wantaway forward Luis Suarez has not changed and reiterated the desire to keep him at Anfield.
As exclusively revealed by Goal, the Uruguay international has been the subject of two club record bids from Arsenal, the second of which amounted to £42 million, and is eager to leave Merseyside.
Suarez has since returned to pre-season training, and featured in Liverpool's pre-season fixture against Melbourne Victory in Australia, and Ayre insists he is going nowhere.
He told Sky Sports: "We've got Luis Suarez in our squad, he'll have trained today and he's working hard.
"Despite what people think we've not had an intention of selling Luis, we've never said we want to sell Luis.
"He continues to work hard and train hard for Liverpool. That will continue and I'll expect him to be here at the start of the season."
Ayre confirmed that the Arsene Wenger has made two approaches for Liverpool's star striker, but rejected the bids out of hand.
He continued: "It's not something we're interested in and, as our fans would expect, we rejected both. The player is not available for sale - that's where we are and that's where we'll stay.
"I wish I had £1 for everyone that's stopped me in the street saying 'make sure Luis stays'. That's what we're doing."
Since Suarez's return to the fold, the managing director has been impressed with his professionalism and was delighted with the reception the fans gave him.
Ayre added: "I don't think his demeanour has changed - he's been a professional throughout. It's just business as usual.
"Luis was on the back end of tour with us. He joined us in Melbourne, and seeing the fantastic support and adulation, nobody will know more than Luis how much he's loved by this football club.
"I'm sure he's going to stay - that's always been our ambition and that's what we expect to achieve."
AC Milan 1-0 Sao Paulo: Kingsley Boateng the match winner as Allegri's men clinch third
AC Milan secured third place in the Audi Cup with a narrow 1-0 win over Sao Paolo at the Allianz Arena on Thursday.
The Rossoneri hit the bar in an otherwise drab first-half, but substitute Kingsley Boateng needed only eight minutes of the second period to break the deadlock with a cool finish.
It turned out to be the only goal of the game, as the Brazilian side failed to mount a serious case for an equaliser.
The results leaves Massimiliano Allegri's men as victors in the penultimate match of the pre-season tournament, whose final is contested by Bayern Munich and Manchester City later on Thursday.
Though Milan largely dictated the tempo during the opening exchanges, it was Sao Paulo who had the first genuine sight on goal, from which Ganso was left hanging his head at his failure to break the deadlock.
New Rossoneri signing Jherson Vergara was a bundle of nerves with the ball at his feet, promptly surrendering possession to Silvinho, who squared to the former Santos man eight yards from goal, but his finish was weak and parried by Marco Amelia.
The match had all the makings of a forgettable pre-season friendly, with a conspicuous lack of urgency from either side, as Milan struggled to break down Sao Paulo’s numbers at the back.
Such was the congestion in the middle that the Italians often took to the flanks to attempt to make headway, but their deliveries from wide areas were sorely lacking quality, with Urby Emanuelson particularly wasteful with his crossing.
Cristante slipped in M’Baye Niang for a clear run-in on goal that was questionably called offside, but the 18-year-old midfielder was caught napping at the other end of the pitch, coughing up the ball to Aloisio, who was thwarted by Amelia from close range.
But the best chance of the first half fell to the Italian side minutes before the break. Niang, the liveliest player of the first 45, drove at the defence and squared to Andrea Petagna inside the area, whose shot was deflected onto the crossbar.
Milan did not take long to break the deadlock after the restart, however, when Boateng latched onto a long pass from the back, accelerated past his marker and prodded the ball home neatly past Denis.
The goal seemed to spark Sao Paulo into life, and the Brazilian outfit began to press forward in greater numbers, with Ganso winning a dangerous free kick that was wasted by Maicon with a wild attempt.
But the Brazilians' momentum did not last long, as they were forced into a series of increasingly desperate attempts on goal, as the Milan back line held firm.
In the end, there was no way back for Sao Paulo, who did not show enough to merit a way back into the game, with Milan closing out the match in relative comfort.
AC Milan secured third place in the Audi Cup with a narrow 1-0 win over Sao Paolo at the Allianz Arena on Thursday.
The Rossoneri hit the bar in an otherwise drab first-half, but substitute Kingsley Boateng needed only eight minutes of the second period to break the deadlock with a cool finish.
It turned out to be the only goal of the game, as the Brazilian side failed to mount a serious case for an equaliser.
The results leaves Massimiliano Allegri's men as victors in the penultimate match of the pre-season tournament, whose final is contested by Bayern Munich and Manchester City later on Thursday.
Though Milan largely dictated the tempo during the opening exchanges, it was Sao Paulo who had the first genuine sight on goal, from which Ganso was left hanging his head at his failure to break the deadlock.
New Rossoneri signing Jherson Vergara was a bundle of nerves with the ball at his feet, promptly surrendering possession to Silvinho, who squared to the former Santos man eight yards from goal, but his finish was weak and parried by Marco Amelia.
The match had all the makings of a forgettable pre-season friendly, with a conspicuous lack of urgency from either side, as Milan struggled to break down Sao Paulo’s numbers at the back.
Such was the congestion in the middle that the Italians often took to the flanks to attempt to make headway, but their deliveries from wide areas were sorely lacking quality, with Urby Emanuelson particularly wasteful with his crossing.
Cristante slipped in M’Baye Niang for a clear run-in on goal that was questionably called offside, but the 18-year-old midfielder was caught napping at the other end of the pitch, coughing up the ball to Aloisio, who was thwarted by Amelia from close range.
But the best chance of the first half fell to the Italian side minutes before the break. Niang, the liveliest player of the first 45, drove at the defence and squared to Andrea Petagna inside the area, whose shot was deflected onto the crossbar.
Milan did not take long to break the deadlock after the restart, however, when Boateng latched onto a long pass from the back, accelerated past his marker and prodded the ball home neatly past Denis.
The goal seemed to spark Sao Paulo into life, and the Brazilian outfit began to press forward in greater numbers, with Ganso winning a dangerous free kick that was wasted by Maicon with a wild attempt.
But the Brazilians' momentum did not last long, as they were forced into a series of increasingly desperate attempts on goal, as the Milan back line held firm.
In the end, there was no way back for Sao Paulo, who did not show enough to merit a way back into the game, with Milan closing out the match in relative comfort.
Barcelona extend Tello contract
The 21-year-old has put an end to the speculation surrounding his future by signing a new deal which will see him stay at Camp Nou until 2018
Cristian Tello has signed a new deal at Barcelona which will keep him at the club until at least 2018.
The 21-year-old has put an end to months of speculation surrounding his future at Camp Nou, with a €25 million clause inserted into his new contract, which extends his stay for an extra two years.
A statement on the Barcelona website said: "Cristian Tello has signed a contract extension that will keep him at the club until June 30, 2018 and contains a buyout clause of €25m."
Tello had only signed his first professional first-team contract in December last season, where he would go on to play 34 games and score eight goals for the club.
The speedy winger joined Barca when he was 11 and rose up the youth ranks before breaking into the first team under former coach Tito Vilanova.
New boss Gerardo Martino has seen enough in Tello that he likes, with the attacker providing the Catalan giants with another another option in attack.
The 21-year-old has put an end to the speculation surrounding his future by signing a new deal which will see him stay at Camp Nou until 2018
Cristian Tello has signed a new deal at Barcelona which will keep him at the club until at least 2018.
The 21-year-old has put an end to months of speculation surrounding his future at Camp Nou, with a €25 million clause inserted into his new contract, which extends his stay for an extra two years.
A statement on the Barcelona website said: "Cristian Tello has signed a contract extension that will keep him at the club until June 30, 2018 and contains a buyout clause of €25m."
Tello had only signed his first professional first-team contract in December last season, where he would go on to play 34 games and score eight goals for the club.
The speedy winger joined Barca when he was 11 and rose up the youth ranks before breaking into the first team under former coach Tito Vilanova.
New boss Gerardo Martino has seen enough in Tello that he likes, with the attacker providing the Catalan giants with another another option in attack.
Madrid must keep Ronaldo, says Ozil
Mesut Ozil has urged Real Madrid to do everything in their power to keep Cristiano Ronaldo at the club.
The Portugual international revealed he was unhappy at the club last season, resulting in speculation he could return to former club Manchester United.
Madrid's pursuit of Tottenham star Gareth Bale has added to speculation the Welshman could be a replacement for the 28-year-old and Ozil says the club would be foolish to allow Ronaldo to leave the Santiago Bernabeu.
He told CNN: Cristiano Ronaldo is very important to the team, just look at the goals he has scored in the past few seasons.
"He's a great person off the field. I hope he can stay here for a long time because he can help us win important titles."
Ozil, 24, was part of a Blancos side that surrendered the Liga title to Barcelona last season, a failure that saw Jose Mourinho leave the club and replaced by Carlo Ancelotti, who arrived from Paris Saint-Germain.
And the Germany international says the Italian coach has wasted little time in changing the club's style of play as they go in search of a 10th Champions League success next term.
"Ancelotti has his own football philosophy," added Ozil. "He wants us to play quicker than before. His system is different to what we're used to but that's why friendly games are important."We can get used to a new way of playing. We have quick attacking players so I believe we are equipped to adopt his system successfully."
Mesut Ozil has urged Real Madrid to do everything in their power to keep Cristiano Ronaldo at the club.
The Portugual international revealed he was unhappy at the club last season, resulting in speculation he could return to former club Manchester United.
Madrid's pursuit of Tottenham star Gareth Bale has added to speculation the Welshman could be a replacement for the 28-year-old and Ozil says the club would be foolish to allow Ronaldo to leave the Santiago Bernabeu.
He told CNN: Cristiano Ronaldo is very important to the team, just look at the goals he has scored in the past few seasons.
"He's a great person off the field. I hope he can stay here for a long time because he can help us win important titles."
Ozil, 24, was part of a Blancos side that surrendered the Liga title to Barcelona last season, a failure that saw Jose Mourinho leave the club and replaced by Carlo Ancelotti, who arrived from Paris Saint-Germain.
And the Germany international says the Italian coach has wasted little time in changing the club's style of play as they go in search of a 10th Champions League success next term.
"Ancelotti has his own football philosophy," added Ozil. "He wants us to play quicker than before. His system is different to what we're used to but that's why friendly games are important."We can get used to a new way of playing. We have quick attacking players so I believe we are equipped to adopt his system successfully."
Strootman: I need to improve
New Roma signing Kevin Strootman has admitted he needs to improve ahead of the new season as he adapts to life in Italy
.
The 23-year-old is currently taking part in his first pre-season campaign with the Italian club, having completed a €16.5million switch from PSV Eindhoven in July.
The Netherlands international debuted for his new team in a 2-1 friendly win over Aris Thessaloniki last week, and opened the scoring in the 3-1 victory against the MLS All-Stars in Kansas on Wednesday.But Strootman has insisted he is not yet happy with his performance levels and has promised improvement in the coming weeks."I have to get used to the team and my team-mates, also learn the language," he said. "It’s difficult but I know the things that I have to know on the pitch and that’s very important."
The midfielder, who has won 18 caps for is country, also revealed his happiness at playing alongside the likes of Miralem Pjanic and Francesco Totti at Roma."It’s nice to play with these kind of players," he added. "They are really good players and with them I can play good. We have a squad of 24 players, and you can see the players that come in they did a good job.
"Yesterday we trained two times and this morning we trained so I’m a little bit tired, but it’s good for the preparation."Strootman made 62 Eredivisie starts during his two seasons with PSV, scoring seven goals.
New Roma signing Kevin Strootman has admitted he needs to improve ahead of the new season as he adapts to life in Italy
.
The 23-year-old is currently taking part in his first pre-season campaign with the Italian club, having completed a €16.5million switch from PSV Eindhoven in July.
The Netherlands international debuted for his new team in a 2-1 friendly win over Aris Thessaloniki last week, and opened the scoring in the 3-1 victory against the MLS All-Stars in Kansas on Wednesday.But Strootman has insisted he is not yet happy with his performance levels and has promised improvement in the coming weeks."I have to get used to the team and my team-mates, also learn the language," he said. "It’s difficult but I know the things that I have to know on the pitch and that’s very important."
The midfielder, who has won 18 caps for is country, also revealed his happiness at playing alongside the likes of Miralem Pjanic and Francesco Totti at Roma."It’s nice to play with these kind of players," he added. "They are really good players and with them I can play good. We have a squad of 24 players, and you can see the players that come in they did a good job.
"Yesterday we trained two times and this morning we trained so I’m a little bit tired, but it’s good for the preparation."Strootman made 62 Eredivisie starts during his two seasons with PSV, scoring seven goals.
Marchisio flattered by interest
Claudio Marchisio says he his "glad to have been linked with big European clubs" after again hinting at leaving Juventus this summer.
The Italy international is rumoured to have caught the attention of Manchester United and Monaco, but any interest is yet to result in any concrete bid.However, Marchisio has refused to rule out leaving the Serie A champions and remains open to a move elsewhere."Every summer the possibility that I might go away is always talked about," he told Gazzetta dello Sport."I'm certainly glad that big European clubs are linked to my name."
The Italy midfielder joined the Bianconeri from Empoli back in 2008 and made 37 appearances for the club last term as Juve won their second successive league title.And despite flirting with a move away from Juventus Stadium, Marchisio also stated that he could happily see out the rest of his playing days with Antonio Conte's side.
"My dream is to still end my career with Juventus," he added."Even if I know that in football, you never know."
Claudio Marchisio says he his "glad to have been linked with big European clubs" after again hinting at leaving Juventus this summer.
The Italy international is rumoured to have caught the attention of Manchester United and Monaco, but any interest is yet to result in any concrete bid.However, Marchisio has refused to rule out leaving the Serie A champions and remains open to a move elsewhere."Every summer the possibility that I might go away is always talked about," he told Gazzetta dello Sport."I'm certainly glad that big European clubs are linked to my name."
The Italy midfielder joined the Bianconeri from Empoli back in 2008 and made 37 appearances for the club last term as Juve won their second successive league title.And despite flirting with a move away from Juventus Stadium, Marchisio also stated that he could happily see out the rest of his playing days with Antonio Conte's side.
"My dream is to still end my career with Juventus," he added."Even if I know that in football, you never know."
Hilario signs new one-year deal at Chelsea
Chelsea goalkeeper Henrique Hilario has signed a new one-year deal at the club, the Blues have confirmed.
The Portuguese goalkeeper was brought to Stamford Bridge in 2006 from Nacional by Jose Mourinho, in his first stint at the club.
The 37-year-old has gone on to make just 39 appearances for the Blues but says he is happy to remain in west London.
“It feels really good to sign a new contract for another year at the club, I'm very proud,” he told the club’s official website.
“I'm really pleased to be part of this great squad and I'm looking forward to working once again with Jose Mourinho.”
Hilario's new deal means Chelsea are well-stocked for goalkeepers having signed Mark Schwarzer from Fulham as back-up to first choice Petr Cech and youngster Jamal Blackman also in the squad.
The Blues have also sent out Belgian keeper Thibaut Courtois on-loan to Atletico Madrid for a third straight season.
Chelsea goalkeeper Henrique Hilario has signed a new one-year deal at the club, the Blues have confirmed.
The Portuguese goalkeeper was brought to Stamford Bridge in 2006 from Nacional by Jose Mourinho, in his first stint at the club.
The 37-year-old has gone on to make just 39 appearances for the Blues but says he is happy to remain in west London.
“It feels really good to sign a new contract for another year at the club, I'm very proud,” he told the club’s official website.
“I'm really pleased to be part of this great squad and I'm looking forward to working once again with Jose Mourinho.”
Hilario's new deal means Chelsea are well-stocked for goalkeepers having signed Mark Schwarzer from Fulham as back-up to first choice Petr Cech and youngster Jamal Blackman also in the squad.
The Blues have also sent out Belgian keeper Thibaut Courtois on-loan to Atletico Madrid for a third straight season.
Milan seal Silvestre loan
AC Milan have officially signed Inter defender Matias Silvestre on a season-long loan.
The 28-year-old joined the Nerazzurri from Palermo last season, but failed to nail down a regular starting spot for the club.
Milan, meanwhile, are in need of defensive reinforcements following the injury sustained by Daniele Bonera and subsequently wasted little time in pursuing their interest in the Argentine.
It had looked as though his cross-city move had been called off but the Rossoneri soon revived their interest and have got their man for the next year, with the deal containing an option to make the move permanent next summer.
"Inter announce that the Argentine defender Matias Silvestre has been transferred to AC Milan on loan with an option to buy," a Nerazzurri statement read.
The centre-back began his career at Boca Juniors and first made the move to Serie A back in 2008, when he joined Catania.
He spent three years at the Angelo Massimino before moving to their Sicilian rivals and earned a €6 million move to San Siro a year later.
AC Milan have officially signed Inter defender Matias Silvestre on a season-long loan.
The 28-year-old joined the Nerazzurri from Palermo last season, but failed to nail down a regular starting spot for the club.
Milan, meanwhile, are in need of defensive reinforcements following the injury sustained by Daniele Bonera and subsequently wasted little time in pursuing their interest in the Argentine.
It had looked as though his cross-city move had been called off but the Rossoneri soon revived their interest and have got their man for the next year, with the deal containing an option to make the move permanent next summer.
"Inter announce that the Argentine defender Matias Silvestre has been transferred to AC Milan on loan with an option to buy," a Nerazzurri statement read.
The centre-back began his career at Boca Juniors and first made the move to Serie A back in 2008, when he joined Catania.
He spent three years at the Angelo Massimino before moving to their Sicilian rivals and earned a €6 million move to San Siro a year later.
Wenger: Arsenal are working on new signings
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has confirmed he is still trying to strengthen his squad this summer but insists his current group of players can mount a title challenge without reinforcements.
Goal exclusively revealed last Tuesday that Arsenal launched an improved £42 million offer for Luis Suarez after seeing their first bid rejected, with the forward later stating his desire to leave Anfield this summer.But despite the large amount of funds available to Wenger, so far Arsenal have only signed France Under-21 striker Yaya Sanogo on a free transfer, though the Gunners boss says he is confident of success even if no new players arrive this summer.
Speaking on Emirates sponsored Google Hangout, Wenger said: "We are still working on improving our squad. But we have a base of young players, players who started in the Premier League with us, like Wojciech Szczesny, Carl Jenkinson, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
"That is why what we do is unique. Look at our competitors, who in the last 10 years has started for them in the Premier League and is still there now?
"I believe my squad have a special bond and that they are on their way upwards, they are not over the hill, they will get better. I am confident we will be stronger next season."
The Frenchman also commented on what he believes to be an advantage for Arsenal going into next season. The 63-year-old is now the longest serving boss in the top flight and he believes it gives him the edge after a summer of managerial upheaval.
"It gives me a slight advantage because I know my squad well," Wenger claimed. "It will take my rivals some time to know theirs, except Jose Mourinho, who knows some of his from before.
"But we should focus on our strengths rather than expect any weakness from the others."It is important to have a strong start and raise belief. Last season when we lost Robin van Persie we had a sceptical environment around the club. We need the crowd to be behind the team."
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has confirmed he is still trying to strengthen his squad this summer but insists his current group of players can mount a title challenge without reinforcements.
Goal exclusively revealed last Tuesday that Arsenal launched an improved £42 million offer for Luis Suarez after seeing their first bid rejected, with the forward later stating his desire to leave Anfield this summer.But despite the large amount of funds available to Wenger, so far Arsenal have only signed France Under-21 striker Yaya Sanogo on a free transfer, though the Gunners boss says he is confident of success even if no new players arrive this summer.
Speaking on Emirates sponsored Google Hangout, Wenger said: "We are still working on improving our squad. But we have a base of young players, players who started in the Premier League with us, like Wojciech Szczesny, Carl Jenkinson, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
"That is why what we do is unique. Look at our competitors, who in the last 10 years has started for them in the Premier League and is still there now?
"I believe my squad have a special bond and that they are on their way upwards, they are not over the hill, they will get better. I am confident we will be stronger next season."
The Frenchman also commented on what he believes to be an advantage for Arsenal going into next season. The 63-year-old is now the longest serving boss in the top flight and he believes it gives him the edge after a summer of managerial upheaval.
"It gives me a slight advantage because I know my squad well," Wenger claimed. "It will take my rivals some time to know theirs, except Jose Mourinho, who knows some of his from before.
"But we should focus on our strengths rather than expect any weakness from the others."It is important to have a strong start and raise belief. Last season when we lost Robin van Persie we had a sceptical environment around the club. We need the crowd to be behind the team."
Bayern Munich 2-1 Manchester City: Negredo's strike overturned by Muller & Mandzukic
Bayern Munich had to stage a second-half comeback in order to defeat Manchester City at the Allianz Arena but Manuel Pellegrini's men were placed on the back foot for large parts of the encounter with the European champions.
Following a first half which saw City enjoy only the briefest spells in possession, Alvaro Negredo finished his most difficult chance of the match, after spurning earlier opportunities, to open the scoring, but a penalty from Thomas Muller and a neat header from Mario Mandzukic secured victory for Bayern.
Pep Guardiola's side controlled the game's tempo from the outset, while Costel Pantilimon was called into action early on to deny strikes from Franck Ribery and Toni Kroos.
Due to the continuous pressure applied by the European champions, City struggled to get out of their own half. Fernandinho and Gareth Barry were never too far ahead of the centre-back partnership of Vincent Kompany and Dedryck Boyata. Stevan Jovetic showed brief spells of encouragement, while Samir Nasri was rarely given the chance to link up with Negredo.
In contrast, Bayern were a slick machine moving forward with Thiago, Toni Kroos, Arjen Robben and Ribery all linking up with free-flowing exchanges.
With David Alaba storming forward on Bayern's left flank, James Milner was often forced to retreat to right-back alongside Pablo Zabaleta, whose positioning was called into question a few times in the first half as Ribery found space close to City's goal.
For all of Bayern's possession, though, clear-cut chances were limited, but the German side went close to taking the lead as Pantilimon was forced into a smart low save from Robben's strike which passed through a number of players in the box.
Towards the end of the half, City edged into the game and Jovetic was close to opening the scoring after his strike from outside the area, which had Manuel Neuer beaten, flashed inches past the post.
But the best chance of the opening 45 minutes fell to City as Nasri found space on the left flank and picked out Negredo in the area. The Spaniard had edged clear of his marker but his header was straight at Neuer.
Milner provided Negredo with another opportunity shortly after but the chance was more difficult and the summer signing from Sevilla could only head wide under pressure.
After the restart Negredo was presented with third headed chance with Nasri again providing the cross. The forward had moved clear of Dante to find space but his header again was directed straight at Neuer.
But Negredo was not to be denied and his most difficult chance of the match was expertly converted. Nasri played a through-ball to the Spaniard, who showed impressive pace and strength to edge ahead of and hold off Javi Martinez, before his low finish eluded Neuer and went in off the post.
Five minutes later, however, Bayern were level as Zabaleta was harshly punished for a handball in the area after Mandzukic's header struck the Argentine's arm from a yard away. Muller stepped up and sent Pantilimon the wrong way.
Bayern continued to step up the intensity and Muller turned provider to put Guardiola's men in front as his cross from the right was met by a stooping Mandzukic, whose difficult header nestled neatly past Pantilimon.
Edin Dzeko was presented with a chance to level the score late on after being played through on goal but the Bosnian's first touch was heavy and his snatched effort allowed Neuer to tip the ball past the post.
Bayern Munich had to stage a second-half comeback in order to defeat Manchester City at the Allianz Arena but Manuel Pellegrini's men were placed on the back foot for large parts of the encounter with the European champions.
Following a first half which saw City enjoy only the briefest spells in possession, Alvaro Negredo finished his most difficult chance of the match, after spurning earlier opportunities, to open the scoring, but a penalty from Thomas Muller and a neat header from Mario Mandzukic secured victory for Bayern.
Pep Guardiola's side controlled the game's tempo from the outset, while Costel Pantilimon was called into action early on to deny strikes from Franck Ribery and Toni Kroos.
Due to the continuous pressure applied by the European champions, City struggled to get out of their own half. Fernandinho and Gareth Barry were never too far ahead of the centre-back partnership of Vincent Kompany and Dedryck Boyata. Stevan Jovetic showed brief spells of encouragement, while Samir Nasri was rarely given the chance to link up with Negredo.
In contrast, Bayern were a slick machine moving forward with Thiago, Toni Kroos, Arjen Robben and Ribery all linking up with free-flowing exchanges.
With David Alaba storming forward on Bayern's left flank, James Milner was often forced to retreat to right-back alongside Pablo Zabaleta, whose positioning was called into question a few times in the first half as Ribery found space close to City's goal.
For all of Bayern's possession, though, clear-cut chances were limited, but the German side went close to taking the lead as Pantilimon was forced into a smart low save from Robben's strike which passed through a number of players in the box.
Towards the end of the half, City edged into the game and Jovetic was close to opening the scoring after his strike from outside the area, which had Manuel Neuer beaten, flashed inches past the post.
But the best chance of the opening 45 minutes fell to City as Nasri found space on the left flank and picked out Negredo in the area. The Spaniard had edged clear of his marker but his header was straight at Neuer.
Milner provided Negredo with another opportunity shortly after but the chance was more difficult and the summer signing from Sevilla could only head wide under pressure.
After the restart Negredo was presented with third headed chance with Nasri again providing the cross. The forward had moved clear of Dante to find space but his header again was directed straight at Neuer.
But Negredo was not to be denied and his most difficult chance of the match was expertly converted. Nasri played a through-ball to the Spaniard, who showed impressive pace and strength to edge ahead of and hold off Javi Martinez, before his low finish eluded Neuer and went in off the post.
Five minutes later, however, Bayern were level as Zabaleta was harshly punished for a handball in the area after Mandzukic's header struck the Argentine's arm from a yard away. Muller stepped up and sent Pantilimon the wrong way.
Bayern continued to step up the intensity and Muller turned provider to put Guardiola's men in front as his cross from the right was met by a stooping Mandzukic, whose difficult header nestled neatly past Pantilimon.
Edin Dzeko was presented with a chance to level the score late on after being played through on goal but the Bosnian's first touch was heavy and his snatched effort allowed Neuer to tip the ball past the post.
- Status
