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Zoff: Gomez the signing of the summer
Dino Zoff believes that Fiorentina have pulled off the biggest transfer coup of the summer in signing Mario Gomez from Bayern Munich.
The Viola have paid a reported €16 million for a player who scored 75 times in 115 Bundesliga appearances for the Bavarians. Consequently, Zoff feels that it is very much a case of money well spent.
"The best signing of the market has been made by Fiorentina," the goalkeepering legend told TuttoJuve.com. "I like Mario Gomez a lot and he is a player of great international importance.
"His arrival in Italy with [Carlos] Tevez and [Gonzalo] Higuain represents a reversal of the recent trend [of top players leaving Italy]. They are great players that will help improve our football."
The former Italy boss is also envisaging a titanic tussle for the title this term, even though he still feels that Juventus will make it three titles in a row.
"Because of way they in which they have operated within the transfer window, Juventus, Fiorentina and Napoli are the Scudetto contenders," the 71-year-old reasoned.
"Inter and Milan will challenge, but I see them behind them behind the others.
"The Bianconeri, in particular, are the strongest team, and will certainly step up and are again the team to beat this year.
"The Viola and the Azzurri [Napoli] have closed the gap to the Bianconeri, but Conte's team is still currently a step above the others."
Juventus finished nine points clear of Napoli last season, with Fiorentina a further eight points adrift, in fourth.
Dino Zoff believes that Fiorentina have pulled off the biggest transfer coup of the summer in signing Mario Gomez from Bayern Munich.
The Viola have paid a reported €16 million for a player who scored 75 times in 115 Bundesliga appearances for the Bavarians. Consequently, Zoff feels that it is very much a case of money well spent.
"The best signing of the market has been made by Fiorentina," the goalkeepering legend told TuttoJuve.com. "I like Mario Gomez a lot and he is a player of great international importance.
"His arrival in Italy with [Carlos] Tevez and [Gonzalo] Higuain represents a reversal of the recent trend [of top players leaving Italy]. They are great players that will help improve our football."
The former Italy boss is also envisaging a titanic tussle for the title this term, even though he still feels that Juventus will make it three titles in a row.
"Because of way they in which they have operated within the transfer window, Juventus, Fiorentina and Napoli are the Scudetto contenders," the 71-year-old reasoned.
"Inter and Milan will challenge, but I see them behind them behind the others.
"The Bianconeri, in particular, are the strongest team, and will certainly step up and are again the team to beat this year.
"The Viola and the Azzurri [Napoli] have closed the gap to the Bianconeri, but Conte's team is still currently a step above the others."
Juventus finished nine points clear of Napoli last season, with Fiorentina a further eight points adrift, in fourth.
Pellegrini will bring out the best in Manchester City, says Navas
Manchester City new signing Jesus Navas is backing Manuel Pellegrini to get the best out of both him and his colleagues in the Premier League next season.
The 27-year-old winger, one of a spate of summer arrivals at the Etihad, joined up with last season's runners-up for their Barclays Asia Trophy in Hong Kong this week.
However, looking ahead to the impending season, Navas had nothing praise for his new manager.
“Manuel [Pellegrini] is a great coach. He has clear ideas and a clear vision, and he will get the best out of all of us,” the Spain international told the club's official website.
“I’m very happy to be here and I think we can enjoy [the Premier League] a lot this season.
“It is important to get fit for the start of the season. As I said, I’m very happy here and I’m sure we will do big things this season.”
Navas added that he has been pleased with the welcome he has received since arriving at the club from Sevilla.
“My team-mates were extremely friendly to me and it’s important to have this feeling,” he stated.
“It was really important [settling in here in Hong Kong]. The Premier League starts in a few weeks so it is important to get fit and ready for the action.
“We’re happy to win this title, but the most important thing is to get fit for the Premier League.
“I have never been [to Manchester] but I have been told it rains a lot, but it also rained a lot this week in Hong Kong so I will be fine with the weather.”
City paid a reported €17.2 million to sign Navas, who has been capped 28 times by his country, from Sevilla earlier this summer.
Manchester City new signing Jesus Navas is backing Manuel Pellegrini to get the best out of both him and his colleagues in the Premier League next season.
The 27-year-old winger, one of a spate of summer arrivals at the Etihad, joined up with last season's runners-up for their Barclays Asia Trophy in Hong Kong this week.
However, looking ahead to the impending season, Navas had nothing praise for his new manager.
“Manuel [Pellegrini] is a great coach. He has clear ideas and a clear vision, and he will get the best out of all of us,” the Spain international told the club's official website.
“I’m very happy to be here and I think we can enjoy [the Premier League] a lot this season.
“It is important to get fit for the start of the season. As I said, I’m very happy here and I’m sure we will do big things this season.”
Navas added that he has been pleased with the welcome he has received since arriving at the club from Sevilla.
“My team-mates were extremely friendly to me and it’s important to have this feeling,” he stated.
“It was really important [settling in here in Hong Kong]. The Premier League starts in a few weeks so it is important to get fit and ready for the action.
“We’re happy to win this title, but the most important thing is to get fit for the Premier League.
“I have never been [to Manchester] but I have been told it rains a lot, but it also rained a lot this week in Hong Kong so I will be fine with the weather.”
City paid a reported €17.2 million to sign Navas, who has been capped 28 times by his country, from Sevilla earlier this summer.
Sammer: Bayern not worried about other clubs
Bayern Munich sporting director Matthias Sammer has made light of the weight of expectancy upon the shoulders of Pep Guardiola, claiming that neither the club nor the coach care what anybody else thinks about them.
Die Roten romped to a sensational treble last season but there are those that now expect the the former Barcelona boss to take the Bavarians to another level.
Guardiola's first competitive outing as coach did not go as expected, though, with Bayern suffering a surprise 4-2 defeat by Borussia Dortmund in the German Super Cup on Saturday, but Sammer insists that they will be paying little heed to the doubters and naysayers.
"We're not worrying about other clubs and the opinions of others," the former Germany international told Die Welt. "We have clear ideas.
"Our new coach is there now and he has let everyone at the club know how he wants to play. His opinion is characterised by competence, and I think that's what counts for us. Nothing else interests us.
"We are always assessed to determine whether we are successful but we can only focus on the path we have chosen and not worry about what people think about it."
Bayern wrapped up last season's Bundesliga title with a record six rounds remaining, but he is not expecting another procession this term.
"BVB has again made great transfers and is sure to have a good season," he said of his former club. "Schalke have also shopped well, like Bayer Leverkusen.
"So, just because last year was so extremely successful, that does not mean that this year will be the same."
Bayern begin the defence of their German title with a game against Borussia Monchengladbach on August 10.
Bayern Munich sporting director Matthias Sammer has made light of the weight of expectancy upon the shoulders of Pep Guardiola, claiming that neither the club nor the coach care what anybody else thinks about them.
Die Roten romped to a sensational treble last season but there are those that now expect the the former Barcelona boss to take the Bavarians to another level.
Guardiola's first competitive outing as coach did not go as expected, though, with Bayern suffering a surprise 4-2 defeat by Borussia Dortmund in the German Super Cup on Saturday, but Sammer insists that they will be paying little heed to the doubters and naysayers.
"We're not worrying about other clubs and the opinions of others," the former Germany international told Die Welt. "We have clear ideas.
"Our new coach is there now and he has let everyone at the club know how he wants to play. His opinion is characterised by competence, and I think that's what counts for us. Nothing else interests us.
"We are always assessed to determine whether we are successful but we can only focus on the path we have chosen and not worry about what people think about it."
Bayern wrapped up last season's Bundesliga title with a record six rounds remaining, but he is not expecting another procession this term.
"BVB has again made great transfers and is sure to have a good season," he said of his former club. "Schalke have also shopped well, like Bayer Leverkusen.
"So, just because last year was so extremely successful, that does not mean that this year will be the same."
Bayern begin the defence of their German title with a game against Borussia Monchengladbach on August 10.
CSKA president: Milan can't treat us like losers over Honda
CSKA Moscow president Yevgeny Giner has warned AC Milan to stop treating his club "like losers" over their attempts to sign Keisuke Honda.
The Rossoneri have agreed a deal with the Japan international that will see the attacking midfielder arrive at San Siro in January, after his contract with his current employers expires at the end of the year.
Milan, though, are trying to secure Honda now, much to the frustration of Giner, who is unhappy with what the Italian giants have bid for the player.
“We’ve had better offers for Honda compared to the Milan one - certainly more interesting and economically viable,” the CSKA supremo is quoted as saying by the Gazzetta dello Sport.
“The issue regards both the sum payable to CSKA and the player’s wages. Milan are an important club and [CEO] Adriano Galliani is an excellent director.
“However, they have to understand in Italy that they can’t treat us like losers, nor will we let ourselves be conditioned by the newspapers.
“Honda has not lost any motivation. He is a CSKA player and has a contract with CSKA.”
The 27-year-old Honda has been plying his trade in the Russian capital for the past three years.
CSKA Moscow president Yevgeny Giner has warned AC Milan to stop treating his club "like losers" over their attempts to sign Keisuke Honda.
The Rossoneri have agreed a deal with the Japan international that will see the attacking midfielder arrive at San Siro in January, after his contract with his current employers expires at the end of the year.
Milan, though, are trying to secure Honda now, much to the frustration of Giner, who is unhappy with what the Italian giants have bid for the player.
“We’ve had better offers for Honda compared to the Milan one - certainly more interesting and economically viable,” the CSKA supremo is quoted as saying by the Gazzetta dello Sport.
“The issue regards both the sum payable to CSKA and the player’s wages. Milan are an important club and [CEO] Adriano Galliani is an excellent director.
“However, they have to understand in Italy that they can’t treat us like losers, nor will we let ourselves be conditioned by the newspapers.
“Honda has not lost any motivation. He is a CSKA player and has a contract with CSKA.”
The 27-year-old Honda has been plying his trade in the Russian capital for the past three years.
Pre-season goals a big boost, admits Defoe
Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe believes his pre-season goals can help him get off to a good start in this season's Premier League.
The England international bagged a hat-trick in the 6-0 demolition of South China on Saturday, after only coming off the bench in the 3-1 defeat to Sunderland in the Barclays Asia Trophy.
Defoe, who scored 11 goals in 34 Premier League games for Spurs last season, now feels he can keep on scoring going into the new season.
Defoe told Spurs TV: “In my experience, over the years, when you’re scoring goals they just keep coming, and when you’ve had a good pre-season, you’re scoring goals that lead you into the start of the season.
“I want to get off to a good start and it’s important in pre-season games that not only me but all the lads feel fit and sharp.
“It’s important to have that confidence going into the games, you get the chances, you don’t even think about it, you believe that you’re going to score and when you’ve got that belief, good things happen.”
Tottenham’s win over South China meant they sealed third place in the Asia Tophy, and Defoe insists that, despite the tournament’s relative low-profile, it is important to win pre-season games.
“You want to come here and you want to win games,” he added.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s pre-season. It’s important to get that winning mentality going into the season, and getting that spirit in the dressing room.”
Defoe is in his second stint at White Hart Lane, after rejoining Spurs from Portsmouth in 2009.
Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe believes his pre-season goals can help him get off to a good start in this season's Premier League.
The England international bagged a hat-trick in the 6-0 demolition of South China on Saturday, after only coming off the bench in the 3-1 defeat to Sunderland in the Barclays Asia Trophy.
Defoe, who scored 11 goals in 34 Premier League games for Spurs last season, now feels he can keep on scoring going into the new season.
Defoe told Spurs TV: “In my experience, over the years, when you’re scoring goals they just keep coming, and when you’ve had a good pre-season, you’re scoring goals that lead you into the start of the season.
“I want to get off to a good start and it’s important in pre-season games that not only me but all the lads feel fit and sharp.
“It’s important to have that confidence going into the games, you get the chances, you don’t even think about it, you believe that you’re going to score and when you’ve got that belief, good things happen.”
Tottenham’s win over South China meant they sealed third place in the Asia Tophy, and Defoe insists that, despite the tournament’s relative low-profile, it is important to win pre-season games.
“You want to come here and you want to win games,” he added.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s pre-season. It’s important to get that winning mentality going into the season, and getting that spirit in the dressing room.”
Defoe is in his second stint at White Hart Lane, after rejoining Spurs from Portsmouth in 2009.
Sahin: Dortmund laid down marker against Bayern
Nuri Sahin believes that Borussia Dortmund have laid down an early marker for this season's Bundesliga with their stunning 4-2 win over reigning champions Bayern Munich in the German Super Cup on Saturday.
Die Schwarzgelben were beaten by the Bavarians in the final of the Champions League May, after finishing a distant second to the treble-winning Roten in the German championship.
However, Dortmund appear well placed to challenge Pep Guardiola's side this term, having claimed a stirring victory at Signal Iduna Park courtesy of a Marco Reus double, a strike from Ilkay Gundogan and a Daniel van Buyten own goal.
"Bayern's preparations for the Supercup were great," Sahin pointed out. "They scored close to 60 goals in friendlies and cleaned up. That was really impressive and obviously the other clubs really respect that.
"However, we've laid down a marker for the Bundesliga. We've proven there's another way. I think that was in the interest of the entire league.
"We can be really pleased. In my eyes, we've capped off some really good groundwork by winning the Supercup. Bring on the season!"
Sahin also believes that Dortmund proved that they have strengthened significantly during the off-season.
"The game was important for our newcomers," the Turkey international enthused. "They've seen what sort of an atmosphere there is at Dortmund and have slotted in seamlessly.
"[Pierre-Emerick] Aubameyang introduced himself with an assist, while Sokratis Papastathopoulos provided added stability towards the end of the game. All in all, it was a good day for us and the new boys."
Dortmund kick off their bid to reclaim the Bundesliga title with an away game against Augsburg on August 10.
Nuri Sahin believes that Borussia Dortmund have laid down an early marker for this season's Bundesliga with their stunning 4-2 win over reigning champions Bayern Munich in the German Super Cup on Saturday.
Die Schwarzgelben were beaten by the Bavarians in the final of the Champions League May, after finishing a distant second to the treble-winning Roten in the German championship.
However, Dortmund appear well placed to challenge Pep Guardiola's side this term, having claimed a stirring victory at Signal Iduna Park courtesy of a Marco Reus double, a strike from Ilkay Gundogan and a Daniel van Buyten own goal.
"Bayern's preparations for the Supercup were great," Sahin pointed out. "They scored close to 60 goals in friendlies and cleaned up. That was really impressive and obviously the other clubs really respect that.
"However, we've laid down a marker for the Bundesliga. We've proven there's another way. I think that was in the interest of the entire league.
"We can be really pleased. In my eyes, we've capped off some really good groundwork by winning the Supercup. Bring on the season!"
Sahin also believes that Dortmund proved that they have strengthened significantly during the off-season.
"The game was important for our newcomers," the Turkey international enthused. "They've seen what sort of an atmosphere there is at Dortmund and have slotted in seamlessly.
"[Pierre-Emerick] Aubameyang introduced himself with an assist, while Sokratis Papastathopoulos provided added stability towards the end of the game. All in all, it was a good day for us and the new boys."
Dortmund kick off their bid to reclaim the Bundesliga title with an away game against Augsburg on August 10.
Player of the Year award for Schweinsteiger
Bayern Munich star Bastian Schweinsteiger has been named as Germany's Footballer of the Year by magazine Kicker.
The 28-year-old midfielder played a key role in die Roten's treble success last season, but insisted that he was taken aback by the recognition of his efforts.
"This surprises me a bit," Schweinsteiger told Kicker. "Because there were times that they were relatively critical of me!
"But this is also a title for the team."
Jupp Heynckes, who was replaced as Bayern boss by Pep Guardiola at the end of their historic campaign, was named coach of the year.
"This award completes the current fairytale," the 68-year-old trainer gushed. "There were dreams that became a reality."
Bayern were beaten 4-2 by Borussia Dortmund in the first competitive game of the Guardiola era, in the German Super Cup on Saturday.
Bayern Munich star Bastian Schweinsteiger has been named as Germany's Footballer of the Year by magazine Kicker.
The 28-year-old midfielder played a key role in die Roten's treble success last season, but insisted that he was taken aback by the recognition of his efforts.
"This surprises me a bit," Schweinsteiger told Kicker. "Because there were times that they were relatively critical of me!
"But this is also a title for the team."
Jupp Heynckes, who was replaced as Bayern boss by Pep Guardiola at the end of their historic campaign, was named coach of the year.
"This award completes the current fairytale," the 68-year-old trainer gushed. "There were dreams that became a reality."
Bayern were beaten 4-2 by Borussia Dortmund in the first competitive game of the Guardiola era, in the German Super Cup on Saturday.
Lewandowski admits 'trouble' with certain people at Borussia Dortmund
Robert Lewandowski has revealed that while he is content to see out the final year of his contract with Borussia Dortmund, he has had a "bit of trouble" with certain people at the club.
The Poloand international seemingly had his heart set on a summer switch to Bayern Munich but die Schwarzgelben refused to given the proposed move the green light, having already lost Mario Gotze to the European champions.
Lewandowski has admitted that having to stay at Signal Iduna Park has been somewhat awkward, but insists that he has not had any problems with his team-mates.
"The issue is settled," the striker told Sky Germany. "In the team, I feel good, but I have had a bit of trouble with other people ... It is a difficult issue."
Lewandowski played a key role in Dortmund's remarkable run to the final of last season's Champions League, scoring four times in the first leg of their semi-final success over Real Madrid.
Robert Lewandowski has revealed that while he is content to see out the final year of his contract with Borussia Dortmund, he has had a "bit of trouble" with certain people at the club.
The Poloand international seemingly had his heart set on a summer switch to Bayern Munich but die Schwarzgelben refused to given the proposed move the green light, having already lost Mario Gotze to the European champions.
Lewandowski has admitted that having to stay at Signal Iduna Park has been somewhat awkward, but insists that he has not had any problems with his team-mates.
"The issue is settled," the striker told Sky Germany. "In the team, I feel good, but I have had a bit of trouble with other people ... It is a difficult issue."
Lewandowski played a key role in Dortmund's remarkable run to the final of last season's Champions League, scoring four times in the first leg of their semi-final success over Real Madrid.
Downing urges Liverpool to keep Suarez
Liverpool midfielder Stewart Downing has urged the club to retain the services of Luis Suarez this summer.
The striker is currently preparing to hand in a formal transfer request in order to secure a move to Arsenal, who submitted a £42 million (€48.65m) bid for the Uruguay international on Monday.
Downing maintains Suarez has been welcomed back to pre-season by the Liverpool players, despite his public desire to leave Anfield this summer, and revealed the squad have held talks about the situation with manager Brendan Rodgers.
“It's so important for us to keep hold of him as Luis is one hell of a player," Downing is quoted as saying by The Sun.
“He's had some good discussions with the manager, which will remain private.
“For us, as players, nothing changes. He's still the same player and he's a great lad to have around the place.
“He gets on well with all the lads. Luis knows we all want him to stay. It’d be so disappointing to lose him.”
Downing believes Suarez is vital for the club's bid to regain a place in the Champions League and says the form Liverpool showed towards the end of last term shows much promise.
“What's going on with Luis isn't a distraction. Pre-season has gone really well and we've got some good results. Now we want to really push on," he said.
“Since he came back Luis has been training really well and I think whatever happens with his Liverpool future will be sorted out in the next week or two.
“We want to keep our best players to help us get into the Champions League. That has to be our aim. We've strengthened the squad with new signings and I'm sure there will be a few more to come.
“If we can reproduce the form we showed in the second half of last season, we'll have a good chance of breaking into that top four.
“We want Luis to be part of that. He's a top player, one of the best in the world - we saw that with the goals he scored last season.”
Suarez, who arrived at Anfield from Ajax in January 2011, netted 23 times in 33 Premier League appearances last season.
Liverpool midfielder Stewart Downing has urged the club to retain the services of Luis Suarez this summer.
The striker is currently preparing to hand in a formal transfer request in order to secure a move to Arsenal, who submitted a £42 million (€48.65m) bid for the Uruguay international on Monday.
Downing maintains Suarez has been welcomed back to pre-season by the Liverpool players, despite his public desire to leave Anfield this summer, and revealed the squad have held talks about the situation with manager Brendan Rodgers.
“It's so important for us to keep hold of him as Luis is one hell of a player," Downing is quoted as saying by The Sun.
“He's had some good discussions with the manager, which will remain private.
“For us, as players, nothing changes. He's still the same player and he's a great lad to have around the place.
“He gets on well with all the lads. Luis knows we all want him to stay. It’d be so disappointing to lose him.”
Downing believes Suarez is vital for the club's bid to regain a place in the Champions League and says the form Liverpool showed towards the end of last term shows much promise.
“What's going on with Luis isn't a distraction. Pre-season has gone really well and we've got some good results. Now we want to really push on," he said.
“Since he came back Luis has been training really well and I think whatever happens with his Liverpool future will be sorted out in the next week or two.
“We want to keep our best players to help us get into the Champions League. That has to be our aim. We've strengthened the squad with new signings and I'm sure there will be a few more to come.
“If we can reproduce the form we showed in the second half of last season, we'll have a good chance of breaking into that top four.
“We want Luis to be part of that. He's a top player, one of the best in the world - we saw that with the goals he scored last season.”
Suarez, who arrived at Anfield from Ajax in January 2011, netted 23 times in 33 Premier League appearances last season.
Moyes on Fabregas: I couldn't tell you if there will be another bid
Manchester United manager David Moyes remains coy on the prospect of making another bid for Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas.
As exclusively revealed by Goal, United have been preparing a final €40.5 million for the Spain midfielder in their attempts to prise him away from Camp Nou.
Moyes, however, insists that no decision has been made on United's next move, while also emphasising the quality already on show at Old Trafford.
"I couldn't tell you if there will be another bid," he said at a press conference in Hong Kong. "Obviously we'll take stock and make a decision on what we do next but we have a good squad already. You can't forget about the quality that's already here.
"Undoubtedly we hope to add to it and I'm quite confident we'll do that ... certainly before the window shuts."
Barcelona recently told Manchester United that the 26-year-old is "not for sale at any price".
"United's interest for Cesc Fabregas is obvious - he's a great player but it does not bother us," Barca vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu told reporters. "It does not matter what they offer us, we are not selling him.
"If there was a higher offer, would we accept it? No. We're proud that a club like that wants one of our players."
Meanwhile, new Blaugrana boss Gerardo Martino also expressed his desire to keep Fabregas with the La Liga champions.
"I won't get involved in the economic interests of the club but, [if it's up to me], we will have him [Cesc] here," the Argentine boss declared.
Manchester United manager David Moyes remains coy on the prospect of making another bid for Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas.
As exclusively revealed by Goal, United have been preparing a final €40.5 million for the Spain midfielder in their attempts to prise him away from Camp Nou.
Moyes, however, insists that no decision has been made on United's next move, while also emphasising the quality already on show at Old Trafford.
"I couldn't tell you if there will be another bid," he said at a press conference in Hong Kong. "Obviously we'll take stock and make a decision on what we do next but we have a good squad already. You can't forget about the quality that's already here.
"Undoubtedly we hope to add to it and I'm quite confident we'll do that ... certainly before the window shuts."
Barcelona recently told Manchester United that the 26-year-old is "not for sale at any price".
"United's interest for Cesc Fabregas is obvious - he's a great player but it does not bother us," Barca vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu told reporters. "It does not matter what they offer us, we are not selling him.
"If there was a higher offer, would we accept it? No. We're proud that a club like that wants one of our players."
Meanwhile, new Blaugrana boss Gerardo Martino also expressed his desire to keep Fabregas with the La Liga champions.
"I won't get involved in the economic interests of the club but, [if it's up to me], we will have him [Cesc] here," the Argentine boss declared.
Barcelona in good condition - Montoya
Barcelona defender Martin Montoya feels the club are in good shape after hammering Valerenga 7-0 on Saturday.The Spanish champions were beaten 2-0 by Bayern Munich in a pre-season friendly on Wednesday, but they bounced back to resoundingly beat the Norwegian outfit in Oslo with new coach Gerardo Martino in charge.
And right-back Montoya believes that the club are making good progress as they prepare to defend their Liga crown."It feels very good [to win]," he told the club's official website. "The match against Bayern was a bit more complicated because they've been training longer than we have, but our evaluations of the matches have been very positive.
"He's [Martino] given us a really good first impression. I'm sure we'll all adapt well."Cristian Tello was among the goalscorers in the drubbing and the 21-year-old is confident he will challenge for a starting place at Camp Nou this term, despite the arrival of Brazilian superstar Neymar.
"I am aware that there will be a lot of competition, but I trust my ability," Tello commented. "It motivates me."
Barcelona defender Martin Montoya feels the club are in good shape after hammering Valerenga 7-0 on Saturday.The Spanish champions were beaten 2-0 by Bayern Munich in a pre-season friendly on Wednesday, but they bounced back to resoundingly beat the Norwegian outfit in Oslo with new coach Gerardo Martino in charge.
And right-back Montoya believes that the club are making good progress as they prepare to defend their Liga crown."It feels very good [to win]," he told the club's official website. "The match against Bayern was a bit more complicated because they've been training longer than we have, but our evaluations of the matches have been very positive.
"He's [Martino] given us a really good first impression. I'm sure we'll all adapt well."Cristian Tello was among the goalscorers in the drubbing and the 21-year-old is confident he will challenge for a starting place at Camp Nou this term, despite the arrival of Brazilian superstar Neymar.
"I am aware that there will be a lot of competition, but I trust my ability," Tello commented. "It motivates me."
Draxler can reach Raul's level, claims Heldt
Schalke starlet Julian Draxler can be as good as Spain legend Raul in future, according to the club's general manager Horst Heldt.
The former Real Madrid star spent two years in Gelsenkirchen before moving to Al Sadd and was treated to a welcome reception by the Bundesliga club's supporters when his side faced Schalke in Saturday's friendly.
Heldt is proud to have had the Spain icon at Veltins Arena and believes that Draxler - who came through the ranks at the club - could progress to Raul's level in future.
"Will there ever be a world-class player like Raul at Schalke again? From his potential, Draxler could reach that level one day," he told Bild am Sonntag.
"Of course we might sign another world star for Schalke in the future.
"However, it's much more beautiful to raise world stars on your own than signing them from other clubs."
Meanwhile, Horst is backing Bayern Munich to retain their Bundesliga title next season and believes they have become a far stronger side having rid themselves of the "vanities" of previous seasons.
"If Bayern won't make a lot of mistakes, they will secure the German championship again. They have the best squad and last season, they put all vanities aside," Heldt added.
"I remember different times when there used to be a lot of theatre."
Schalke starlet Julian Draxler can be as good as Spain legend Raul in future, according to the club's general manager Horst Heldt.
The former Real Madrid star spent two years in Gelsenkirchen before moving to Al Sadd and was treated to a welcome reception by the Bundesliga club's supporters when his side faced Schalke in Saturday's friendly.
Heldt is proud to have had the Spain icon at Veltins Arena and believes that Draxler - who came through the ranks at the club - could progress to Raul's level in future.
"Will there ever be a world-class player like Raul at Schalke again? From his potential, Draxler could reach that level one day," he told Bild am Sonntag.
"Of course we might sign another world star for Schalke in the future.
"However, it's much more beautiful to raise world stars on your own than signing them from other clubs."
Meanwhile, Horst is backing Bayern Munich to retain their Bundesliga title next season and believes they have become a far stronger side having rid themselves of the "vanities" of previous seasons.
"If Bayern won't make a lot of mistakes, they will secure the German championship again. They have the best squad and last season, they put all vanities aside," Heldt added.
"I remember different times when there used to be a lot of theatre."
Ibrahimovic reveals Ancelotti contact
Paris Saint-Germain striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has admitted he has spoken with former coach Carlo Ancelotti - but insists they have only discussed "small details".
The 31-year-old has been the subject of transfer speculation since PSG splashed out €63 million on Edinson Cavani, although he has previously stressed he has no plans to quit the club this summer.
Ibrahimovic has been linked with a reunion with Ancelotti at Real Madrid and the Sweden star has confessed he has spoken to his old boss - though he made no suggestion that any potential transfer was in the offing.
"Ancelotti? Yes, we have spoken, but only in small details," he was quoted as saying by Tuttomercatoweb.
Ibrahimovic featured in PSG's 1-0 friendly defeat to Madrid in Gothenburg on Saturday and he had nothing but praise for the Liga giants following the clash.
"Real Madrid are a great team, they are preparing just like us and working hard. Los Merengues are playing well and have amazing players," he added.
Paris Saint-Germain striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has admitted he has spoken with former coach Carlo Ancelotti - but insists they have only discussed "small details".
The 31-year-old has been the subject of transfer speculation since PSG splashed out €63 million on Edinson Cavani, although he has previously stressed he has no plans to quit the club this summer.
Ibrahimovic has been linked with a reunion with Ancelotti at Real Madrid and the Sweden star has confessed he has spoken to his old boss - though he made no suggestion that any potential transfer was in the offing.
"Ancelotti? Yes, we have spoken, but only in small details," he was quoted as saying by Tuttomercatoweb.
Ibrahimovic featured in PSG's 1-0 friendly defeat to Madrid in Gothenburg on Saturday and he had nothing but praise for the Liga giants following the clash.
"Real Madrid are a great team, they are preparing just like us and working hard. Los Merengues are playing well and have amazing players," he added.
Verratti agrees new PSG deal
Marco Verratti has agreed a new contract with Paris Saint-Germain, the player's agent has confirmed.The 20-year-old has long been embroiled in discussions over a new deal, but talks had stalled earlier on this week as Napoli prepared to make the midfielder a "monstrous" offer.
However, speculation over the Italy international's future has now finally been put to bed after his agent revealed the player is set to sign a new deal until 2018.
"The deal is reached with PSG," wrote Donato Di Campli on Twitter."Marco Verratti will remain until 2018. The contract signing will occur after his return from the game in Gabon."
Verratti joined the Ligue 1 champions in the summer of 2012 from Pescara and made a total of 39 appearances for the club last season.
Marco Verratti has agreed a new contract with Paris Saint-Germain, the player's agent has confirmed.The 20-year-old has long been embroiled in discussions over a new deal, but talks had stalled earlier on this week as Napoli prepared to make the midfielder a "monstrous" offer.
However, speculation over the Italy international's future has now finally been put to bed after his agent revealed the player is set to sign a new deal until 2018.
"The deal is reached with PSG," wrote Donato Di Campli on Twitter."Marco Verratti will remain until 2018. The contract signing will occur after his return from the game in Gabon."
Verratti joined the Ligue 1 champions in the summer of 2012 from Pescara and made a total of 39 appearances for the club last season.
Rooney will stay at Manchester United, insists club legend Charlton
Sir Bobby Charlton believes that Wayne Rooney will remain at Manchester United this summer and insists that the club will not make "rash decisions" over the striker's future.
Earlier in July, United rejected a bid from Chelsea for the England international, while Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed that his side would be prepared to meet the 27-year-old's salary demands.
David Moyes has stressed throughout the club's pre-season campaign that Rooney is not for sale and Charlton, who is a director at Old Trafford, has reiterated the Scot's stance.
"Wayne Rooney is a Manchester United player and I think that he will continue to be a Manchester United player," the Red Devils legend told reporters.
"We are not silly enough to make any rash decisions. I don't like losing really good players and he is a really, really good player.
"I was hoping one day that he might score as many goals as I had and that would have been really nice if it was at our club – and I'm still thinking that way."
Sir Bobby Charlton believes that Wayne Rooney will remain at Manchester United this summer and insists that the club will not make "rash decisions" over the striker's future.
Earlier in July, United rejected a bid from Chelsea for the England international, while Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed that his side would be prepared to meet the 27-year-old's salary demands.
David Moyes has stressed throughout the club's pre-season campaign that Rooney is not for sale and Charlton, who is a director at Old Trafford, has reiterated the Scot's stance.
"Wayne Rooney is a Manchester United player and I think that he will continue to be a Manchester United player," the Red Devils legend told reporters.
"We are not silly enough to make any rash decisions. I don't like losing really good players and he is a really, really good player.
"I was hoping one day that he might score as many goals as I had and that would have been really nice if it was at our club – and I'm still thinking that way."
Mou reveals special plans for Mata
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho insists that Spain forward Juan Mata remains firmly in his plans for the forthcoming campaign.
Uncertainty had surrounded Mata’s future earlier this summer, with the 25-year-old at one stage demanding talks with the Portuguese.
But Mourinho is adamant that the Spaniard is very much part of his plans, revealing that he intends to use Mata as a winger who will cut inside from the right.
"Of course [Mata] fits into my plans," the Blues manager told reporters. "I have my idea about him, about where he produces better and where he has more difficulty. We will try to help him perform better in those situations.
"I like wingers coming in on the inside for the penetrative movement, for the pass, for the shot and Juan is the only player we have to do that on the right.
"On the left we have Hazard, Victor Moses, Kevin De Bruyne, Andre Schurrle ... Juan is also very comfortable playing as a No.10. In between these two positions, he has a lot to give to the team."
The 50-year-old also spoke of his preference for "ordinary" players who give everything for their side, admitting: "I am not the kind of guy who makes life easy for the great players. This kind of player is the last I praise.
"You have to praise the guys who play to their limits, who give everything. They are not superstars; they are just good players trying to support their teams. For me, to praise an ordinary player is easy. For me to praise a top player is not. When a player is different and has more potential than others, he has to use his talent in a good way."
As well as Mata, Mourinho is looking forward to working with Eden Hazard next season, suggesting that he is ready to help him take his performances to the next level.
"The kid has a lot of talent but it's about what he does next," he explained of the Belgian. "He has to go from a great talent to great numbers: how many goals, how many assists, how many winning goals, how many goals in big matches.
"Football is about numbers in a very pragmatic way. I'm ready to help him, I'm ready to work with him."
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho insists that Spain forward Juan Mata remains firmly in his plans for the forthcoming campaign.
Uncertainty had surrounded Mata’s future earlier this summer, with the 25-year-old at one stage demanding talks with the Portuguese.
But Mourinho is adamant that the Spaniard is very much part of his plans, revealing that he intends to use Mata as a winger who will cut inside from the right.
"Of course [Mata] fits into my plans," the Blues manager told reporters. "I have my idea about him, about where he produces better and where he has more difficulty. We will try to help him perform better in those situations.
"I like wingers coming in on the inside for the penetrative movement, for the pass, for the shot and Juan is the only player we have to do that on the right.
"On the left we have Hazard, Victor Moses, Kevin De Bruyne, Andre Schurrle ... Juan is also very comfortable playing as a No.10. In between these two positions, he has a lot to give to the team."
The 50-year-old also spoke of his preference for "ordinary" players who give everything for their side, admitting: "I am not the kind of guy who makes life easy for the great players. This kind of player is the last I praise.
"You have to praise the guys who play to their limits, who give everything. They are not superstars; they are just good players trying to support their teams. For me, to praise an ordinary player is easy. For me to praise a top player is not. When a player is different and has more potential than others, he has to use his talent in a good way."
As well as Mata, Mourinho is looking forward to working with Eden Hazard next season, suggesting that he is ready to help him take his performances to the next level.
"The kid has a lot of talent but it's about what he does next," he explained of the Belgian. "He has to go from a great talent to great numbers: how many goals, how many assists, how many winning goals, how many goals in big matches.
"Football is about numbers in a very pragmatic way. I'm ready to help him, I'm ready to work with him."
Fabregas set for talks to clarify Barcelona future
Cesc Fabregas will meet with new Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino in the next 48 hours as he seeks assurances over his future at Camp Nou.
The Manchester United target wants to clarify his position with Martino ahead of publicly announcing his intentions this summer, with Barcelona having already rejected two approaches from the Premier League champions for the 26-year-old.
Martino insisted on Friday that the Catalans would also dismiss any further approaches from United for the midfielder, with Goal having revealed last week that the club were preparing an improved bid of €41 million for the former Arsenal star.
Barcelona vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu has also previously ruled out and chance of the club selling the Spain international, insisting: "Whatever offer United make, however big, we will say no. Cesc Fabregas will stay a Barcelona player."
However, Fabregas is keen to meet with his new manager to ensure he remains key to the club's plans next term, and United are understood to be losing heart in their pursuit of the midfielder.
After Thiago Alcantara opted to join Bayern Munich ahead of United earlier in July, Fabregas has emerged as David Moyes' priority signing this summer.
The United boss admitted on Sunday that he was unsure whether his side will continue their efforts to sign Fabregas but insisted he will add to his squad before the close of the transfer window.
"I couldn't tell you if there will be another bid," Moyes said.
"Obviously we'll take stock and make a decision on what we do next but we have a good squad already. You can't forget about the quality that's already here.
"Undoubtedly we hope to add to it and I'm quite confident we'll do that... certainly before the window shuts."
Cesc Fabregas will meet with new Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino in the next 48 hours as he seeks assurances over his future at Camp Nou.
The Manchester United target wants to clarify his position with Martino ahead of publicly announcing his intentions this summer, with Barcelona having already rejected two approaches from the Premier League champions for the 26-year-old.
Martino insisted on Friday that the Catalans would also dismiss any further approaches from United for the midfielder, with Goal having revealed last week that the club were preparing an improved bid of €41 million for the former Arsenal star.
Barcelona vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu has also previously ruled out and chance of the club selling the Spain international, insisting: "Whatever offer United make, however big, we will say no. Cesc Fabregas will stay a Barcelona player."
However, Fabregas is keen to meet with his new manager to ensure he remains key to the club's plans next term, and United are understood to be losing heart in their pursuit of the midfielder.
After Thiago Alcantara opted to join Bayern Munich ahead of United earlier in July, Fabregas has emerged as David Moyes' priority signing this summer.
The United boss admitted on Sunday that he was unsure whether his side will continue their efforts to sign Fabregas but insisted he will add to his squad before the close of the transfer window.
"I couldn't tell you if there will be another bid," Moyes said.
"Obviously we'll take stock and make a decision on what we do next but we have a good squad already. You can't forget about the quality that's already here.
"Undoubtedly we hope to add to it and I'm quite confident we'll do that... certainly before the window shuts."
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