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Ilkay Gundogan to decide on future
Borussia Dortmund ace Ilkay Gundogan has admitted he will soon have a decision to make about his future.But with 18-months remaining on his current deal, the German star insists that Dortmund have not given him an ultimatum about his future.
The 23-year-old has been strongly linked with English champions Manchester United, whilst Real Madrid are also said to be very keen.However, Gundogan - who has just left the side's winter training camp in La Manga and returned to Germany due to illness - is open about his future.
"I have not made a final decision yet," he is quoted by German daily Bild.
"BVB are the first team I am talking to, I will soon make a well-thought decision. But I am keeping my options open at this point.
"Borussia Dortmund have not set me an ultimatum."I am just trying to get healthy again and get back to my best form. That's the main priority for BVB and for myself."
Borussia Dortmund ace Ilkay Gundogan has admitted he will soon have a decision to make about his future.But with 18-months remaining on his current deal, the German star insists that Dortmund have not given him an ultimatum about his future.
The 23-year-old has been strongly linked with English champions Manchester United, whilst Real Madrid are also said to be very keen.However, Gundogan - who has just left the side's winter training camp in La Manga and returned to Germany due to illness - is open about his future.
"I have not made a final decision yet," he is quoted by German daily Bild.
"BVB are the first team I am talking to, I will soon make a well-thought decision. But I am keeping my options open at this point.
"Borussia Dortmund have not set me an ultimatum."I am just trying to get healthy again and get back to my best form. That's the main priority for BVB and for myself."
January window 1keth bagayak gihin iwarai
Thama MID playerslata Manchester United bid karalawath nahane
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Congratulations Spain!
Fellaini nearing return from injury for Manchester United
Manchester United boss David Moyes has revealed midfielder Marouane Fellaini is set to return to full training next week.
The Belgium international has not featured since the 1-0 home defeat against his former club Everton early last month after undergoing surgery on his wrist.
Fellaini has also been troubled by a back problem, but Moyes is hopeful of having the summer signing available ahead of meetings with Sunderland in the Capital One Cup and Cardiff City in the Premier League.
Combative midfielder Fellaini will have his cast removed on Monday and will then be looking to stake his claim for a place in the United starting line-up.
"Hopefully next week we'll get him back," Moyes told MUTV.
Fellaini has not reproduced the sort of form that he showed for Everton at the start of his United career, and will be eager to make an impact when he returns to the first team.
Manchester United boss David Moyes has revealed midfielder Marouane Fellaini is set to return to full training next week.
The Belgium international has not featured since the 1-0 home defeat against his former club Everton early last month after undergoing surgery on his wrist.
Fellaini has also been troubled by a back problem, but Moyes is hopeful of having the summer signing available ahead of meetings with Sunderland in the Capital One Cup and Cardiff City in the Premier League.
Combative midfielder Fellaini will have his cast removed on Monday and will then be looking to stake his claim for a place in the United starting line-up.
"Hopefully next week we'll get him back," Moyes told MUTV.
Fellaini has not reproduced the sort of form that he showed for Everton at the start of his United career, and will be eager to make an impact when he returns to the first team.
Balotelli: I can't wait to play for Seedorf at Milan
Mario Balotelli says he is looking forward to getting to work under the new AC Milan coach Clarence Seedorf following the Dutchman's appointment this week.
The Rossoneri's poor form has seen them slide into the bottom half of Serie A, with Sunday's 4-3 defeat at lowly Sassuolo resulting in the sacking of Massimiliano Allegri.
However, the announcement of Seedorf as the new boss at Milanello has been welcomed by the club's star striker.
"It was disappointing to see Allegri leave, but Seedorf has come in and it is very exciting to work with somebody like him," Balotelli told reporters at a Puma boot launch in Barcelona.
"Seedorf's record with Milan can be transmitted to the players. It is a good thing that he brings that experience with him."
While Seedorf and Milan face their own tough prospect in the Champions League next month against Atletico Madrid, Balotelli was also asked to give his verdict on his former club Manchester City, who will take on Barcelona in the last 16.
"City can definitely beat Barcelona, and I really hope they do," he admitted. "I have a lot of good friends there, so I will be cheering for Manchester City. But it will be a very difficult game."
His former City manager Roberto Mancini is another feature of the knockout stages after a dramatic late win over Juventus saw his Galatasaray side progress at the Old Lady's expense, and Balotelli admitted that his loyalties were split when watching the win-or-bust clash in Turkey.
"I was just hoping for a spectacular game really. I wanted Juventus to do well because I am Italian, but I had a very good experience with Mancini at City, so I want him to do well also."
Balotelli was joined at the launch by Marco Reus and Cesc Fabregas, but when asked who he'd rather face in this summer's World Cup final with Italy, the 23-year-oild was unequivocal.
"The only important thing is that I am there!"
Mario Balotelli says he is looking forward to getting to work under the new AC Milan coach Clarence Seedorf following the Dutchman's appointment this week.
The Rossoneri's poor form has seen them slide into the bottom half of Serie A, with Sunday's 4-3 defeat at lowly Sassuolo resulting in the sacking of Massimiliano Allegri.
However, the announcement of Seedorf as the new boss at Milanello has been welcomed by the club's star striker.
"It was disappointing to see Allegri leave, but Seedorf has come in and it is very exciting to work with somebody like him," Balotelli told reporters at a Puma boot launch in Barcelona.
"Seedorf's record with Milan can be transmitted to the players. It is a good thing that he brings that experience with him."
While Seedorf and Milan face their own tough prospect in the Champions League next month against Atletico Madrid, Balotelli was also asked to give his verdict on his former club Manchester City, who will take on Barcelona in the last 16.
"City can definitely beat Barcelona, and I really hope they do," he admitted. "I have a lot of good friends there, so I will be cheering for Manchester City. But it will be a very difficult game."
His former City manager Roberto Mancini is another feature of the knockout stages after a dramatic late win over Juventus saw his Galatasaray side progress at the Old Lady's expense, and Balotelli admitted that his loyalties were split when watching the win-or-bust clash in Turkey.
"I was just hoping for a spectacular game really. I wanted Juventus to do well because I am Italian, but I had a very good experience with Mancini at City, so I want him to do well also."
Balotelli was joined at the launch by Marco Reus and Cesc Fabregas, but when asked who he'd rather face in this summer's World Cup final with Italy, the 23-year-oild was unequivocal.
"The only important thing is that I am there!"
Henry: Wenger changed the philosophy of Arsenal
Thierry Henry says he hopes Arsenal win the Premier League title this season and claims Gunners boss Arsene Wenger changed the philosophy of the north London club.
The former France international scored 226 goals in 369 appearances for Arsenal between 1999 and 2007, before returning for a two-month loan spell in 2012 from his current club, New York Red Bulls.
Henry won seven trophies in his time in north London, but the Gunners have failed to win any silverware since 2005.
However, Arsenal are currently top of the Premier League table after 21 games and Henry believes this could be the year for his former side.
"I still watch Arsenal a lot," he said at an event in Barcelona. "They have had a great start to the season and I hope they can keep it up. I would be really happy if they won the Premier League."
Henry also paid tribute to former boss Wenger, who signed him from Juventus in 1999.
"He changed the philosophy of the club," the 36-year-old said. "He won stuff as soon as he arrived and therefore he earned the trust of the fans and the respect of everyone."
The striker left Arsenal in 2007 to join Barcelona, where he was part of the treble-winning side of 2008-09 under Pep Guardiola.
However, he believes the Catalan club are also on the right track this season with Argentine boss Gerardo Martino.
"How many points do they have?" he said. "I don't think 50 points is bad at halfway [in La Liga]. They changed coach in the summer, but when I watch them I see them doing well - they are still a great team."
Henry's New York Red Bulls have been linked with a move for his former Barca team-mate, Xavi, at the end of the season but he insists that he has not been in touch with the midfielder.
"I haven't spoken to him," Henry said. "But Xavi is such a great player and he can play anywhere. He can play in MLS, in France, in England, anywhere ...
"Xavi plays football the way I believe football should be played, just like [Andres] Iniesta and Cesc [Fabregas].
"The way Barcelona play is the way I think the game should be played."
Thierry Henry says he hopes Arsenal win the Premier League title this season and claims Gunners boss Arsene Wenger changed the philosophy of the north London club.
The former France international scored 226 goals in 369 appearances for Arsenal between 1999 and 2007, before returning for a two-month loan spell in 2012 from his current club, New York Red Bulls.
Henry won seven trophies in his time in north London, but the Gunners have failed to win any silverware since 2005.
However, Arsenal are currently top of the Premier League table after 21 games and Henry believes this could be the year for his former side.
"I still watch Arsenal a lot," he said at an event in Barcelona. "They have had a great start to the season and I hope they can keep it up. I would be really happy if they won the Premier League."
Henry also paid tribute to former boss Wenger, who signed him from Juventus in 1999.
"He changed the philosophy of the club," the 36-year-old said. "He won stuff as soon as he arrived and therefore he earned the trust of the fans and the respect of everyone."
The striker left Arsenal in 2007 to join Barcelona, where he was part of the treble-winning side of 2008-09 under Pep Guardiola.
However, he believes the Catalan club are also on the right track this season with Argentine boss Gerardo Martino.
"How many points do they have?" he said. "I don't think 50 points is bad at halfway [in La Liga]. They changed coach in the summer, but when I watch them I see them doing well - they are still a great team."
Henry's New York Red Bulls have been linked with a move for his former Barca team-mate, Xavi, at the end of the season but he insists that he has not been in touch with the midfielder.
"I haven't spoken to him," Henry said. "But Xavi is such a great player and he can play anywhere. He can play in MLS, in France, in England, anywhere ...
"Xavi plays football the way I believe football should be played, just like [Andres] Iniesta and Cesc [Fabregas].
"The way Barcelona play is the way I think the game should be played."
Klopp: Real Madrid would have no chance against Bayern Munich
Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp says that Real Madrid would have "no chance" of beating Bayern Munich if the pair clash in this season's Champions League.
The 46-year-old coach led Die Schwarzgelben to a 4-3 aggregate win over Los Blancos in the semi-finals of last season's Champions League, only to lose 2-1 to their Bavarian rivals in the tournament decider at Wembley.
With Bayern having seemingly gone up another level since Pep Guardiola replaced Jupp Heynckes at the helm during the summer, Klopp now feels that Bayern are simply unbeatable.
"Real Madrid would have no chance of competing with Bayern," he is quoted as saying by A Bola. "Bayern are currently unstoppable.
"If the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester United have no chance against them, how can Dortmund beat them?"
Klopp, whose Dortmund side are currently 12 points behind Bayern in the Bundesliga having played a game more, added that while Barcelona are capable of beating the Bavarians in a one-off game, even the Catalans would be unable to eliminate them over two legs.
Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp says that Real Madrid would have "no chance" of beating Bayern Munich if the pair clash in this season's Champions League.
The 46-year-old coach led Die Schwarzgelben to a 4-3 aggregate win over Los Blancos in the semi-finals of last season's Champions League, only to lose 2-1 to their Bavarian rivals in the tournament decider at Wembley.
With Bayern having seemingly gone up another level since Pep Guardiola replaced Jupp Heynckes at the helm during the summer, Klopp now feels that Bayern are simply unbeatable.
"Real Madrid would have no chance of competing with Bayern," he is quoted as saying by A Bola. "Bayern are currently unstoppable.
"If the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester United have no chance against them, how can Dortmund beat them?"
Klopp, whose Dortmund side are currently 12 points behind Bayern in the Bundesliga having played a game more, added that while Barcelona are capable of beating the Bavarians in a one-off game, even the Catalans would be unable to eliminate them over two legs.
Falcao: Joining Mourinho at Chelsea not possible
Monaco striker Radamel Falcao says that it "does not seem possible" that he will ever get the chance to play under Jose Mourinho at Chelsea.
The Colombia international was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge last summer but the forward insists that a transfer from Atletico Madrid to the Blues was never on the cards.
"Would I like to play with Mourinho? I’d never considered it," he told Sky Sport Italia. "As of today it doesn’t seem possible, as we are on two very different paths and I have a five-year contract with Monaco.
“But Mourinho is a coach with a fantastic career, the titles that he has won speak for him and nobody can deny his capabilities.
"He has a different style, people might not like him, but that makes him special and football enjoy his eccentricity.
"But there has been a lot of speculation around European clubs interested in me. I didn’t think too much about that, though. I try to concentrate on my objectives, training to achieve important results."
Falcao did admit, however, that he would like to ply his trade in Italy at some point in the future.
“One day I’d like to play in Serie A. Where? I can’t say,” he stated.
“I loved Roberto Baggio, while of the current Italy squad I like Andrea Pirlo. Giuseppe Rossi is very talented and Francesco Totti ought to be called up for international duty."
Monaco striker Radamel Falcao says that it "does not seem possible" that he will ever get the chance to play under Jose Mourinho at Chelsea.
The Colombia international was heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge last summer but the forward insists that a transfer from Atletico Madrid to the Blues was never on the cards.
"Would I like to play with Mourinho? I’d never considered it," he told Sky Sport Italia. "As of today it doesn’t seem possible, as we are on two very different paths and I have a five-year contract with Monaco.
“But Mourinho is a coach with a fantastic career, the titles that he has won speak for him and nobody can deny his capabilities.
"He has a different style, people might not like him, but that makes him special and football enjoy his eccentricity.
"But there has been a lot of speculation around European clubs interested in me. I didn’t think too much about that, though. I try to concentrate on my objectives, training to achieve important results."
Falcao did admit, however, that he would like to ply his trade in Italy at some point in the future.
“One day I’d like to play in Serie A. Where? I can’t say,” he stated.
“I loved Roberto Baggio, while of the current Italy squad I like Andrea Pirlo. Giuseppe Rossi is very talented and Francesco Totti ought to be called up for international duty."
Conte: Juve cannot relax as rivals strengthen
Antonio Conte has warned his Juventus side against becoming complacent in the second half of the season, despite currently being eight points clear at the summit of Serie A.
Second-placed Roma have already strengthened their squad this month with the signing of highly-rated midfielder Radja Nainggolan from Cagliari, while third-placed Napoli are also set to spend big during the January transfer window.
Defending champions Juve are not expected to bring in any new faces, so Conte, who has masterminded a club record run of 11 straight league wins this season, including victories against Roma and Napoli, says that the Bianconeri will need to maintain their sensational in order to fend off their reinforced rivals.
"The fact that our opponents, in spite of having achieved something extraordinary, are strengthening further definitely leaves me unable to relax," he said."We have to keep up an extraordinary pace to maintain our position.
"That they are reinforcing is certainly not a positive thing. I also see the second half of the season as a busy schedule and therefore we must hold a lot of attention.
"Because, while I read that only we can lose the Scudetto, or that the title is already Juve's, I believe that this is said by those who have never won anything in their life.
"It is why winning is always very difficult, even when you are eight points ahead with seven weeks until the end. That has happened to me in losing and winning title races."
Antonio Conte has warned his Juventus side against becoming complacent in the second half of the season, despite currently being eight points clear at the summit of Serie A.
Second-placed Roma have already strengthened their squad this month with the signing of highly-rated midfielder Radja Nainggolan from Cagliari, while third-placed Napoli are also set to spend big during the January transfer window.
Defending champions Juve are not expected to bring in any new faces, so Conte, who has masterminded a club record run of 11 straight league wins this season, including victories against Roma and Napoli, says that the Bianconeri will need to maintain their sensational in order to fend off their reinforced rivals.
"The fact that our opponents, in spite of having achieved something extraordinary, are strengthening further definitely leaves me unable to relax," he said."We have to keep up an extraordinary pace to maintain our position.
"That they are reinforcing is certainly not a positive thing. I also see the second half of the season as a busy schedule and therefore we must hold a lot of attention.
"Because, while I read that only we can lose the Scudetto, or that the title is already Juve's, I believe that this is said by those who have never won anything in their life.
"It is why winning is always very difficult, even when you are eight points ahead with seven weeks until the end. That has happened to me in losing and winning title races."
Neymar: I feared my World Cup was over
Barcelona star Neymar has confirmed that the injury he sustained at Getafe will only keep him out of action for a month, much to his relief.
The 21-year-old Brazilian limped out of Thursday's match with an ankle problem but he has since been given positive news that the injury is only a strain of the tendons.
“At the time, I thought it could be a serious injury, and I thought about my plans for 2014,” Neymar explained via social media.
“[But] don't worry. I’ll do everything right and I’ll be back soon.”
The Selecao talisman also took time to thank fans for their support during a frightening 24 hours.
“What a scare! But Jesus, once again, was by my side. Thank you to everyone who prayed for me.”
World Cup hosts Brazil open the tournament on June 12 when they host Croatia.
Barcelona star Neymar has confirmed that the injury he sustained at Getafe will only keep him out of action for a month, much to his relief.
The 21-year-old Brazilian limped out of Thursday's match with an ankle problem but he has since been given positive news that the injury is only a strain of the tendons.
“At the time, I thought it could be a serious injury, and I thought about my plans for 2014,” Neymar explained via social media.
“[But] don't worry. I’ll do everything right and I’ll be back soon.”
The Selecao talisman also took time to thank fans for their support during a frightening 24 hours.
“What a scare! But Jesus, once again, was by my side. Thank you to everyone who prayed for me.”
World Cup hosts Brazil open the tournament on June 12 when they host Croatia.
Tottenham manager Sherwood 'happy' to sell
Tottenham head coach Tim Sherwood has admitted he would be "happy" to sell some of his squad, if they were players he felt could not take the club forward.
Sherwood, who took over from Andre Villas-Boas last month, has guided Spurs to four victories in his opening five league matches.
However, when questioned on whether he would be prepared to sell during the current transfer window, Sherwood admitted he would not have a problem allowing some players to leave."Yes, absolutely," he told reporters. "As long as they're the players I don't want to take us forward, then I'm happy [to sell them].
"But it's sometimes a case of supply and demand. We've got fantastic players here at the club and if we were to lose no one I wouldn't be shedding any tears, but you can only go with a certain amount of players and the pressure's on because it's a World Cup year for a lot of these players. It's important that they're playing.
"We can't guarantee that they're going to get maximum game time, but we certainly won't be leaving ourselves short."Etienne Capoue, a summer signing from Toulouse, is among those to have been linked with a move away, and Sherwood has not ruled out a transfer for the Frenchman.
"I think Franco [Baldini] might be working in the background regarding a lot of transfers," he added. "I've heard nothing concrete. He [Capoue] is a new player so he's obviously one that I've read a lot of speculation about."We have never had an issue between us. The fact is I'm still getting to know some of these new players and I know the other ones better."
Tottenham head coach Tim Sherwood has admitted he would be "happy" to sell some of his squad, if they were players he felt could not take the club forward.
Sherwood, who took over from Andre Villas-Boas last month, has guided Spurs to four victories in his opening five league matches.
However, when questioned on whether he would be prepared to sell during the current transfer window, Sherwood admitted he would not have a problem allowing some players to leave."Yes, absolutely," he told reporters. "As long as they're the players I don't want to take us forward, then I'm happy [to sell them].
"But it's sometimes a case of supply and demand. We've got fantastic players here at the club and if we were to lose no one I wouldn't be shedding any tears, but you can only go with a certain amount of players and the pressure's on because it's a World Cup year for a lot of these players. It's important that they're playing.
"We can't guarantee that they're going to get maximum game time, but we certainly won't be leaving ourselves short."Etienne Capoue, a summer signing from Toulouse, is among those to have been linked with a move away, and Sherwood has not ruled out a transfer for the Frenchman.
"I think Franco [Baldini] might be working in the background regarding a lot of transfers," he added. "I've heard nothing concrete. He [Capoue] is a new player so he's obviously one that I've read a lot of speculation about."We have never had an issue between us. The fact is I'm still getting to know some of these new players and I know the other ones better."
I've got more to offer Real Madrid, says Illarra
Real Madrid midfielder Asier Illarramendi admits that he needs to do more if he is to nail down a regular place in Carlo Ancelotti's starting XI.
The 23-year-old has made 23 appearances in all competitions since his €39 million summer switch from Real Sociedad, although he has struggled to fully justify his large pricetag with his form to date.
However, the former Spain youth international is confident he will continue to improve under Ancelotti this season after he started the midweek win over Osasuna.
"I always want to give more, and I know I've got more to offer," the midfielder told reporters.
"I need to keep working hard and gaining confidence. I try to do my very best when I play."
Reflecting on the win at Osasuna, where he partnered the now fully-fit Xabi Alonso in midfield, Illarramendi was positive about Madrid's performance.
He said: "We're happy. We knew it would be tough if they nicked a goal, and luckily it was us who scored."
The 4-0 aggregate victory saw Real Madrid safely through to a quarter-final, where they will face Espanyol.
Real Madrid midfielder Asier Illarramendi admits that he needs to do more if he is to nail down a regular place in Carlo Ancelotti's starting XI.
The 23-year-old has made 23 appearances in all competitions since his €39 million summer switch from Real Sociedad, although he has struggled to fully justify his large pricetag with his form to date.
However, the former Spain youth international is confident he will continue to improve under Ancelotti this season after he started the midweek win over Osasuna.
"I always want to give more, and I know I've got more to offer," the midfielder told reporters.
"I need to keep working hard and gaining confidence. I try to do my very best when I play."
Reflecting on the win at Osasuna, where he partnered the now fully-fit Xabi Alonso in midfield, Illarramendi was positive about Madrid's performance.
He said: "We're happy. We knew it would be tough if they nicked a goal, and luckily it was us who scored."
The 4-0 aggregate victory saw Real Madrid safely through to a quarter-final, where they will face Espanyol.
Monaco sign Nigeria international Echiejile
Monaco have confirmed the signing of Nigerian full-back Elderson Echiejile on a four-and-a-half-year contract from Braga.The 25-year-old defender has made 12 appearances in Portugal this season and his performances have impressed Monaco coach Claudio Ranieri.
Echiejile has 38 caps for Nigeria and was part of the side that won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013 and qualified for this year's World Cup.He headed to Portugal from Rennes in 2010 and becomes the second arrival this month at Ligue 1 club Monaco after Lacina Traore joined from Anzhi Makhachkala.
"I am very happy and proud to return to France as a club AS Monaco FC is one of the best in Europe," he told the club's official website. "(They have) a great reputation in Africa since George Weah was found there."In addition, great Nigerian players wore this jersey like Lukman Haruna (and) Victor Ikpeba and I'll give the best of myself to succeed them as best possible.
"I've got to know some of the history of the club, I have heard great things about the club and I am very happy to be part of the project. It's a great thing happening to me."Being in a team with really good players is good, you get to improve individually. I just want to be here, achieve a lot and win trophies."
Echiejile could be in line to make his debut against Toulouse on Sunday, a game which Ranieri believes is vital if his side are to get their Ligue 1 title charge back on track."Everyone is very concentrated on Toulouse and works well together," said Ranieri in a press conference. "It will be a very difficult match and we must win to pick up the pace.
"Toulouse are a well organised team, cover the spaces well and play very quickly.
"This game is an opportunity for us to recover the points we lost recently. This is the time to show our determination. "
Monaco have confirmed the signing of Nigerian full-back Elderson Echiejile on a four-and-a-half-year contract from Braga.The 25-year-old defender has made 12 appearances in Portugal this season and his performances have impressed Monaco coach Claudio Ranieri.
Echiejile has 38 caps for Nigeria and was part of the side that won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013 and qualified for this year's World Cup.He headed to Portugal from Rennes in 2010 and becomes the second arrival this month at Ligue 1 club Monaco after Lacina Traore joined from Anzhi Makhachkala.
"I am very happy and proud to return to France as a club AS Monaco FC is one of the best in Europe," he told the club's official website. "(They have) a great reputation in Africa since George Weah was found there."In addition, great Nigerian players wore this jersey like Lukman Haruna (and) Victor Ikpeba and I'll give the best of myself to succeed them as best possible.
"I've got to know some of the history of the club, I have heard great things about the club and I am very happy to be part of the project. It's a great thing happening to me."Being in a team with really good players is good, you get to improve individually. I just want to be here, achieve a lot and win trophies."
Echiejile could be in line to make his debut against Toulouse on Sunday, a game which Ranieri believes is vital if his side are to get their Ligue 1 title charge back on track."Everyone is very concentrated on Toulouse and works well together," said Ranieri in a press conference. "It will be a very difficult match and we must win to pick up the pace.
"Toulouse are a well organised team, cover the spaces well and play very quickly.
"This game is an opportunity for us to recover the points we lost recently. This is the time to show our determination. "
Blanc: PSG don't want Messi
Paris Saints Germain head coach Laurent Blanc has revealed that the Ligue 1 champions are not interested in signing Lionel Messi because their main priority is to bolster the squad with a midfielder.
The French champions have long been linked with a potential world-record bid for the Argentina ace, with some reports suggesting a fee of more than €250 million could be tabled to land the Barcelona star.
Blanc, however, has dismissed the rumours, stressing that les Parisiens are only looking to bolster their midfield at present, as talk of a move for Juventus starlet Paul Pogba continues to surface.
"Talk about it with transfer window specialists. Messi is in Barcelona," Blanc told reporters when asked over possible interest in Messi.
"I have already spoken of the transfer window. If there is a big signing, it will be in midfield. Nothing else."
PSG have been rumoured to be preparing a potential swap deal involving Marco Verratti in order to land Pogba, while Chelsea duo Juan Mata and Eden Hazard have also been linked with the big-spending Ligue 1 leaders.
Paris Saints Germain head coach Laurent Blanc has revealed that the Ligue 1 champions are not interested in signing Lionel Messi because their main priority is to bolster the squad with a midfielder.
The French champions have long been linked with a potential world-record bid for the Argentina ace, with some reports suggesting a fee of more than €250 million could be tabled to land the Barcelona star.
Blanc, however, has dismissed the rumours, stressing that les Parisiens are only looking to bolster their midfield at present, as talk of a move for Juventus starlet Paul Pogba continues to surface.
"Talk about it with transfer window specialists. Messi is in Barcelona," Blanc told reporters when asked over possible interest in Messi.
"I have already spoken of the transfer window. If there is a big signing, it will be in midfield. Nothing else."
PSG have been rumoured to be preparing a potential swap deal involving Marco Verratti in order to land Pogba, while Chelsea duo Juan Mata and Eden Hazard have also been linked with the big-spending Ligue 1 leaders.
Morata has not asked to leave, insists Ancelotti
Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has reiterated his stance that Alvaro Morata will not be leaving the club this month.
The Spain Under-21 international has been linked with a potential loan switch to Arsenal, while Serie A giants Juventus and Inter also registered an interest in signing the player.
"Morata hasn't asked to leave, he doesn't want to go," stated Ancelotti in Friday's pre-match press conference.
Ancelotti went on to stress that La Liga has yet to see the best form of record summer signing Gareth Bale, adding: "Bale has to improve this year.
"Today I spoke to Bale, he feels ok, he's comfortable. Tomorrow he's going to play a good game."
Madrid take on Real Betis this weekend as they look to maintain the pressure on league leaders Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, and Ancelotti suggested adopting a 4-3-3 system would serve his side better in more difficult clashes.
"Every game is tough," he stressed. "4-3-3 gives us a better defensive coverage. We get more control."
Finally, Ancelotti became irritated when another question was posed on former Blancos midfielder Mesut Ozil, after comments attributed to the Italian coach surfaced earlier in the week where he admitted selling the player to Arsenal was a mistake.
When asked over whether or not the remarks were true, Ancelotti simply quipped: "I thought you'd ask me about Ozil".
Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has reiterated his stance that Alvaro Morata will not be leaving the club this month.
The Spain Under-21 international has been linked with a potential loan switch to Arsenal, while Serie A giants Juventus and Inter also registered an interest in signing the player.
"Morata hasn't asked to leave, he doesn't want to go," stated Ancelotti in Friday's pre-match press conference.
Ancelotti went on to stress that La Liga has yet to see the best form of record summer signing Gareth Bale, adding: "Bale has to improve this year.
"Today I spoke to Bale, he feels ok, he's comfortable. Tomorrow he's going to play a good game."
Madrid take on Real Betis this weekend as they look to maintain the pressure on league leaders Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, and Ancelotti suggested adopting a 4-3-3 system would serve his side better in more difficult clashes.
"Every game is tough," he stressed. "4-3-3 gives us a better defensive coverage. We get more control."
Finally, Ancelotti became irritated when another question was posed on former Blancos midfielder Mesut Ozil, after comments attributed to the Italian coach surfaced earlier in the week where he admitted selling the player to Arsenal was a mistake.
When asked over whether or not the remarks were true, Ancelotti simply quipped: "I thought you'd ask me about Ozil".
Moyes confirms Rooney and Van Persie will miss Manchester United's clash with ChelseaManchester United manager David Moyes has confirmed that strikers Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie will both miss the champions' trip to Chelsea on Sunday.
The England international has been struggling with a groin problem and has returned from a warm-weather training break in Egypt but is still not ready to make the trip to Stamford Bridge.
“Wayne’s come back, he’s fresh but he’s not ready for Chelsea,” the boss told reporters.
“He’s training, he’s on the grass, doing some running and looking quite good. He’s had a break, done a lot of strengthening work around his groin and hopefully enjoyed a few days in the sunshine as well. Hopefully he’ll benefit from it, but not for this game.
“I don’t want to put a date on it just now as I don’t want to say he’ll be fit for whatever game and then I find he’s not, but we’ve just got to take it bit by bit. I’ve watched him running today; he looks well and is in really good condition."
Rooney will be joined on the sidelines by Robin van Persie, but Moyes is optimistic the Dutch international is not too far away from a return to action.
“I’m hoping Robin has a good chance of training at the start of next week, so if I can get him back out on the grass and back with us, it’ll be a great boost for us all,” he added.
“He’s a really important player and a player we’ve missed. But he’s getting closer now and most of them are getting closer to fitness, so let’s hope it’s not too long until we get them back.”
The Manchester United manager also confirmed that Anderson was on the verge of leaving the club for Serie A side Fiorentina adding: "We've not been able to get him as many games as he'd have hoped."
Seedorf will be a great coach - Galliani
AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani believes that Clarence Seedorf will prove to be a great coach for the Rossoneri.
The Dutchman was confirmed as Massimiliano Allegri's successor on Thursday and will make his debut on the San Siro bench when they host Verona on Sunday.
The Lombardy outfit have struggled in recent weeks but Galliani is confident the former Netherlands international will get the most out of his players.
"Seedorf will shake up the team. I'm sorry about what happened to Allegri, but this is the destiny of all coaches,” he told reporters.
“Seedorf will become a great coach because he was a great player. I have only had positive vibes about Seedorf so far. He is very motivated for this adventure.
“Have I talked about the transfer market with Seedorf? No. And even if we had, I wouldn't reveal it."
One of Seedorf's former Milan team-mates, Pippo Inzaghi is currently coaching the Rossoneri youth ranks and Galliani is also confident that the ex-striker will also develop into an excellent trainer.
He added: "Inzaghi should keep on working like he is currently doing. He is doing excellently. He will also become a great coach."
AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani believes that Clarence Seedorf will prove to be a great coach for the Rossoneri.
The Dutchman was confirmed as Massimiliano Allegri's successor on Thursday and will make his debut on the San Siro bench when they host Verona on Sunday.
The Lombardy outfit have struggled in recent weeks but Galliani is confident the former Netherlands international will get the most out of his players.
"Seedorf will shake up the team. I'm sorry about what happened to Allegri, but this is the destiny of all coaches,” he told reporters.
“Seedorf will become a great coach because he was a great player. I have only had positive vibes about Seedorf so far. He is very motivated for this adventure.
“Have I talked about the transfer market with Seedorf? No. And even if we had, I wouldn't reveal it."
One of Seedorf's former Milan team-mates, Pippo Inzaghi is currently coaching the Rossoneri youth ranks and Galliani is also confident that the ex-striker will also develop into an excellent trainer.
He added: "Inzaghi should keep on working like he is currently doing. He is doing excellently. He will also become a great coach."
Sirigu: PSG must maintain momentum
Paris Saint-Germain cannot afford to lose focus as they go in search of glory on four fronts this season, according to Salvatore Sirigu.
The capital club are five points clear in Ligue 1 as they battle for a second straight title and have made sound progress in the Coupe de France, the Coupe de la Ligue and the Champions League.
However, Sirigu feels there is still a chance his side could become unstuck and has told his team-mates to give their all in all four competitions.
"We must stay focused," he said. "We know that Monaco and Lille will not make a lot of mistakes before the end of the season.
"And we are committed to the cup and the Champions League, it is especially important to keep continuity in our results.
"Choices do not exist. We cannot afford to make choices and be competitive. We must maintain our momentum.
"We are lucky to still be in all competitions and we want to go all the way in each. [A treble] would be something special, but it is very difficult. We are in January, it is a long road to the end of the season."
Paris Saint-Germain cannot afford to lose focus as they go in search of glory on four fronts this season, according to Salvatore Sirigu.
The capital club are five points clear in Ligue 1 as they battle for a second straight title and have made sound progress in the Coupe de France, the Coupe de la Ligue and the Champions League.
However, Sirigu feels there is still a chance his side could become unstuck and has told his team-mates to give their all in all four competitions.
"We must stay focused," he said. "We know that Monaco and Lille will not make a lot of mistakes before the end of the season.
"And we are committed to the cup and the Champions League, it is especially important to keep continuity in our results.
"Choices do not exist. We cannot afford to make choices and be competitive. We must maintain our momentum.
"We are lucky to still be in all competitions and we want to go all the way in each. [A treble] would be something special, but it is very difficult. We are in January, it is a long road to the end of the season."
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