La Liga 2013.09.26 Fixtures
La Liga 2013.09.26 Fixtures
Athletic Bilbao Vs Real Betis
Getafe Vs Celta Vigo
Villareal Vs Espanyol
Athletic Bilbao Vs Real Betis
Getafe Vs Celta Vigo
Villareal Vs Espanyol
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Inter 2-1 Fiorentina: Jonathan sends Mazzarri's men second
Inter continued their unbeaten start to the season with a fantastic comeback victory over rivals Fiorentina.
Giuseppe Rossi netted from the penalty spot to give the Viola lead, but their advantage was short-lived as Esteban Cambiasso and a late Jonathan goal secured the three points for the hosts.
The victory, Walter Mazzarri's fourth in Serie A as Nerazzurri coach, puts the San Siro outfit second while it was Fiorentina boss Vincenzo Montella's first defeat of the campaign.
The result was kind on Inter, who made no changes to the side that thrashed Sassuolo 7-0 on Sunday, while Montella only tinkered with his team, introducing Joaquin for the dropped Rafal Wolski.
Japan defender Yuto Nagatomo fired an early warning shot for Inter, forcing Fiorentina goalkeeper Neto into a save within the first minute, but it was the visitors who would control the early proceedings.
Rossi had an early chance on goal, linking well with Joaquin before hitting a fierce drive that Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic had to palm away, and the duo paired up again shortly after.
This time Handanovic had to keep out Joaquin, who was forced wide by Andrea Ranocchia, and the Spaniard also fizzed an effort across the face of goal as Fiorentina pressed for the opener.
Rossi and Manuel Pasqual - who hobbled off moments later - had further attempts on target, with Inter restricted to half-chances and an acrobatic Fredy Guarin effort.
Fiorentina, who had continual joy down the right flank, deserved to be in front at the break, and Inter could have no complaints when they took the lead just before the hour-mark.
The goal came from the penalty spot, with Juan penalised for dragging down Joaquin, and Rossi stepped up to dispatch the spot-kick past Handanovic with precision.
Just as Inter looked to be running short of ideas, Cambiasso produced a moment of brilliance with 18 minutes to play for their equaliser.
Hugo Campagnaro won a crucial header among a dithering defence, and Cambiasso chested down before lashing a left-foot volley past Neto.
Campagnaro was then called on at the other end to make an important block that denied Rossi, while Borja Valero's superb cut-back was thrashed straight at Handanovic by substitute Josip Ilicic.
And his save was vital, as Inter charged forward and took the lead thanks to a bullet finish from Brazilian defender Jonathan.
Argentine Ricky Alvarez played Jonathan in with a terrific ball from the left, and the scorer chested down and avoided the attempted interception by Matias Fernandez before he fired beyond Neto.
Alvaro Pereira and Cambiasso had further attempts on goal as Inter aimed to seal the result, while Ambrosini had a late effort for the Viola, but Mazzarri's men held on.
Inter continued their unbeaten start to the season with a fantastic comeback victory over rivals Fiorentina.
Giuseppe Rossi netted from the penalty spot to give the Viola lead, but their advantage was short-lived as Esteban Cambiasso and a late Jonathan goal secured the three points for the hosts.
The victory, Walter Mazzarri's fourth in Serie A as Nerazzurri coach, puts the San Siro outfit second while it was Fiorentina boss Vincenzo Montella's first defeat of the campaign.
The result was kind on Inter, who made no changes to the side that thrashed Sassuolo 7-0 on Sunday, while Montella only tinkered with his team, introducing Joaquin for the dropped Rafal Wolski.
Japan defender Yuto Nagatomo fired an early warning shot for Inter, forcing Fiorentina goalkeeper Neto into a save within the first minute, but it was the visitors who would control the early proceedings.
Rossi had an early chance on goal, linking well with Joaquin before hitting a fierce drive that Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic had to palm away, and the duo paired up again shortly after.
This time Handanovic had to keep out Joaquin, who was forced wide by Andrea Ranocchia, and the Spaniard also fizzed an effort across the face of goal as Fiorentina pressed for the opener.
Rossi and Manuel Pasqual - who hobbled off moments later - had further attempts on target, with Inter restricted to half-chances and an acrobatic Fredy Guarin effort.
Fiorentina, who had continual joy down the right flank, deserved to be in front at the break, and Inter could have no complaints when they took the lead just before the hour-mark.
The goal came from the penalty spot, with Juan penalised for dragging down Joaquin, and Rossi stepped up to dispatch the spot-kick past Handanovic with precision.
Just as Inter looked to be running short of ideas, Cambiasso produced a moment of brilliance with 18 minutes to play for their equaliser.
Hugo Campagnaro won a crucial header among a dithering defence, and Cambiasso chested down before lashing a left-foot volley past Neto.
Campagnaro was then called on at the other end to make an important block that denied Rossi, while Borja Valero's superb cut-back was thrashed straight at Handanovic by substitute Josip Ilicic.
And his save was vital, as Inter charged forward and took the lead thanks to a bullet finish from Brazilian defender Jonathan.
Argentine Ricky Alvarez played Jonathan in with a terrific ball from the left, and the scorer chested down and avoided the attempted interception by Matias Fernandez before he fired beyond Neto.
Alvaro Pereira and Cambiasso had further attempts on goal as Inter aimed to seal the result, while Ambrosini had a late effort for the Viola, but Mazzarri's men held on.
Mazzarri stunned by 'exceptional' start at Inter
Walter Mazzarri has been stunned by the "exceptional" start his Inter team have made this season after their 2-1 victory over Fiorentina at San Siro on Thursday made it four wins from five.Giuseppe Rossi gave the visitors the lead on the hour mark, but late goals from Esteban Cambiasso and Jonathan completed the comeback, which leaves Inter joint second with Juventus and Napoli in Serie A.
And Mazzarri is surprised by the quickness of the turnaround, as a few months ago the club finished ninth in the league and already he is seeing signs of promise for the Nerazzurri, although admits they did not have it all their own way against the Viola.“You could see we were affected for five minutes by that [Rossi] goal, but then we shook off the tension and in the end deserved this victory,” he said. "It was a struggle sometimes against a very strong team with real quality.
“Fiorentina play very tight and that makes it look as if they have more possession, but the statistics showed it was in the end 52 per cent to our 48, so the difference was minimal.
“Their only real scoring opportunities were created by our mistakes, whereas we had the chance to finish off two really good counter-attacks in the first half alone.
“We tried pressing Fiorentina high up the pitch, but they are so good in terms of technique that it was difficult to shake them up. We need to grow, but thankfully these lads are achieving something exceptional with the time I’ve had to impart my ideas."
Goalscorer Cambiasso also echoed his coach’s sentiments, explaining that the nature of the result meant that Inter had rediscovered their character.“You can see that Inter have an identity once more and if that is accompanied by results too then it’s even better,” he said.
“Tonight we had a great reaction to going behind. The team is united and the fans can go home happy. Fiorentina really pressured us in the first half, but we knew they couldn’t keep that tempo up and struck at the right moment.”
When asked if Inter’s victory sent a message to their title rivals, Cambiasso replied: “No, we’re sending a message to ourselves.”The Argentine went on to dedicate his strike to his new family, after his wife gave birth during the week.
He concluded: “I dedicate this goal to my son Dante and to my wife, as she was the one who struggled and worked to bring him into the world. This victory ends three crazy days."
Walter Mazzarri has been stunned by the "exceptional" start his Inter team have made this season after their 2-1 victory over Fiorentina at San Siro on Thursday made it four wins from five.Giuseppe Rossi gave the visitors the lead on the hour mark, but late goals from Esteban Cambiasso and Jonathan completed the comeback, which leaves Inter joint second with Juventus and Napoli in Serie A.
And Mazzarri is surprised by the quickness of the turnaround, as a few months ago the club finished ninth in the league and already he is seeing signs of promise for the Nerazzurri, although admits they did not have it all their own way against the Viola.“You could see we were affected for five minutes by that [Rossi] goal, but then we shook off the tension and in the end deserved this victory,” he said. "It was a struggle sometimes against a very strong team with real quality.
“Fiorentina play very tight and that makes it look as if they have more possession, but the statistics showed it was in the end 52 per cent to our 48, so the difference was minimal.
“Their only real scoring opportunities were created by our mistakes, whereas we had the chance to finish off two really good counter-attacks in the first half alone.
“We tried pressing Fiorentina high up the pitch, but they are so good in terms of technique that it was difficult to shake them up. We need to grow, but thankfully these lads are achieving something exceptional with the time I’ve had to impart my ideas."
Goalscorer Cambiasso also echoed his coach’s sentiments, explaining that the nature of the result meant that Inter had rediscovered their character.“You can see that Inter have an identity once more and if that is accompanied by results too then it’s even better,” he said.
“Tonight we had a great reaction to going behind. The team is united and the fans can go home happy. Fiorentina really pressured us in the first half, but we knew they couldn’t keep that tempo up and struck at the right moment.”
When asked if Inter’s victory sent a message to their title rivals, Cambiasso replied: “No, we’re sending a message to ourselves.”The Argentine went on to dedicate his strike to his new family, after his wife gave birth during the week.
He concluded: “I dedicate this goal to my son Dante and to my wife, as she was the one who struggled and worked to bring him into the world. This victory ends three crazy days."
Iniesta: I am not at war with Barcelona
Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta has spoken out about the uncertainty surrounding his future, insisting that negotiations for a new contract are going according to plan.The club are keen to offer him a renewal on his terms, but reports suggested that the 29-year-old was reluctant to sign a new deal, with his current contract expiring in 2015, and Paris Saint-Germain said to be monitoring the situation.
However, Iniesta has rubbished such claims by restating his desire to end his playing career at Barca, explaining that a new agreement was in the interest of all parties.
“There is nothing strange or any war going on between Barca and Iniesta. The club wants me here and I want to stay here,” he said at a press conference.“I have said many times that my aim is to retire here and the club wants the same. We all want to reach an agreement.”
Iniesta also rejected any suggestion that the delay in negotiations was because of financial considerations, instead asserting his desire to better himself as a footballer during the seasons ahead at Camp Nou.“This has nothing to do with money or whether I am the second, third, fourth or fifth best paid player,” he continued. “What motivates me is knowing that I have some good years ahead in which I can keep improving and growing as a player.”
The midfielder has appeared as a substitute for four of Barca’s competitive games this season, but despite some disappointment at his reduced playing time, he remains supportive of coach Gerardo Martino’s rotation policy.“The most important thing is that we are all getting to play a role and feel useful,” he said. “Nobody likes being dropped, but it happens to us all.
“You have to take things as they come. The coach has to make his decisions and the first thing on his mind is the decision which benefits the team.”
Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta has spoken out about the uncertainty surrounding his future, insisting that negotiations for a new contract are going according to plan.The club are keen to offer him a renewal on his terms, but reports suggested that the 29-year-old was reluctant to sign a new deal, with his current contract expiring in 2015, and Paris Saint-Germain said to be monitoring the situation.
However, Iniesta has rubbished such claims by restating his desire to end his playing career at Barca, explaining that a new agreement was in the interest of all parties.
“There is nothing strange or any war going on between Barca and Iniesta. The club wants me here and I want to stay here,” he said at a press conference.“I have said many times that my aim is to retire here and the club wants the same. We all want to reach an agreement.”
Iniesta also rejected any suggestion that the delay in negotiations was because of financial considerations, instead asserting his desire to better himself as a footballer during the seasons ahead at Camp Nou.“This has nothing to do with money or whether I am the second, third, fourth or fifth best paid player,” he continued. “What motivates me is knowing that I have some good years ahead in which I can keep improving and growing as a player.”
The midfielder has appeared as a substitute for four of Barca’s competitive games this season, but despite some disappointment at his reduced playing time, he remains supportive of coach Gerardo Martino’s rotation policy.“The most important thing is that we are all getting to play a role and feel useful,” he said. “Nobody likes being dropped, but it happens to us all.
“You have to take things as they come. The coach has to make his decisions and the first thing on his mind is the decision which benefits the team.”
'It's not as if I've killed anyone' - Balotelli begrudgingly apologises
Mario Balotelli has reluctantly apologised for his antics during Milan’s 2-1 defeat to Napoli on Sunday.After scoring a late consolation goal at San Siro, the forward was sent off following a second yellow card after the final whistle for remonstrating furiously with the officials, and will now serve a three-match ban for misconduct.
Milan opted against filing an appeal on the striker’s behalf, and with criticism of his behaviour coming from all corners, Balotelli has reluctantly decided to admit his mistakes.
“First of all I am sorry for my team-mates,” said Balotelli to La Gazzetta dello Sport. “They train and work hard with me, so with this gesture I left them alone. I also feel guilty for the fans, who care so much, and of course the club."
And though he was slightly less charitable towards match official Luca Banti, Balotelli still attempted to make his apologies for confronting him after the match.
“I also apologise to the referee, as I should not have reacted that way. I do realise I have to resist in certain situations,” he reflected.”But against Napoli it was the same old story, the fouls against me don’t seem to count, but as soon as I do anything, [it’s a foul]. I just want others to be punished for fouling me the same way I am for fouling them.”
However, the striker was also at pains to suggest that his apology was meant as repentance towards those who had chastised him, adding: “Mario got it wrong and Mario apologises, but I don’t want to apologise to everyone because it’s not as if I killed someone.”
Balotelli’s agent Mino Raiola commended the striker for his openness, and insisted that his apology did not come as a result of the condemnation faced in the wake of his dismissal.“This is what Mario wanted to do, it’s something that comes from his heart, no one forced him,” said Raiola to Milan's official channel. “If he does not want to do a thing, he does not do it.
“The boy has decided to apologise because he knows he has disappointed his team-mates, the fans and the club.”
Mario Balotelli has reluctantly apologised for his antics during Milan’s 2-1 defeat to Napoli on Sunday.After scoring a late consolation goal at San Siro, the forward was sent off following a second yellow card after the final whistle for remonstrating furiously with the officials, and will now serve a three-match ban for misconduct.
Milan opted against filing an appeal on the striker’s behalf, and with criticism of his behaviour coming from all corners, Balotelli has reluctantly decided to admit his mistakes.
“First of all I am sorry for my team-mates,” said Balotelli to La Gazzetta dello Sport. “They train and work hard with me, so with this gesture I left them alone. I also feel guilty for the fans, who care so much, and of course the club."
And though he was slightly less charitable towards match official Luca Banti, Balotelli still attempted to make his apologies for confronting him after the match.
“I also apologise to the referee, as I should not have reacted that way. I do realise I have to resist in certain situations,” he reflected.”But against Napoli it was the same old story, the fouls against me don’t seem to count, but as soon as I do anything, [it’s a foul]. I just want others to be punished for fouling me the same way I am for fouling them.”
However, the striker was also at pains to suggest that his apology was meant as repentance towards those who had chastised him, adding: “Mario got it wrong and Mario apologises, but I don’t want to apologise to everyone because it’s not as if I killed someone.”
Balotelli’s agent Mino Raiola commended the striker for his openness, and insisted that his apology did not come as a result of the condemnation faced in the wake of his dismissal.“This is what Mario wanted to do, it’s something that comes from his heart, no one forced him,” said Raiola to Milan's official channel. “If he does not want to do a thing, he does not do it.
“The boy has decided to apologise because he knows he has disappointed his team-mates, the fans and the club.”
Villas-Boas predicts 'tightest Premier League in years'
Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas believes the Premier League this season will be one of the tighest in recent years ahead of the visit of Chelsea on Saturday.
The White Hart Lane outfit were one of the division's busiest teams during the summer, with the likes of Paulinho, Roberto Soldado and Erik Lamela all breaking their transfer record as the club pre-empted the world-record sale of Gareth Bale to Real Madrid.
Tottenham have won four of their first five games this term, and host rivals Chelsea on Saturday, and manager Villas-Boas says the game will give him an indication of what the club can achieve this term.
"We want to do well against a team that won the European Cup two years ago, won the Europa League that we wanted so much last season. This is the kind of game that you can measure the kind of challenges you might have," Villas-Boas told reporters.
"What is happening to us now puts us in a positive mood and we have to collect as many points as possible based on the positive mood we are developing, but it can change very, very quickly.
"At the moment we are on a good run, but there are no clubs on maximum points and this year will be very tight at the top. [Manchester] United are struggling for points, but they have played all the top team at the beginning of the season.
"This will probably become the tightest Premier League in years. It's important for everybody [to win this game]. It would be extremely good to build on our positive start, especially against a good team."
The fixture sees Villas-Boas come up against Jose Mourinho, for whom he worked as a scout and coach at Porto, Chelsea and Inter.
He said he enjoyed an "excellent" relationship with the former Real Madrid manager, but had to move on to match his personal goals.
"Our break-up point was because I was full of ambition to give him something extra and I wanted further involvement than the job I was doing at that time, which was scouting and match preparation," the 35-year-old added.
"I felt I could give him much more, so my initial idea was to keep on working with him.
"But he didn't feel the need for somebody near to him or in another position as an assistant, and because of that it was decided that it was time, after Inter Milan, to continue our careers [apart]."
Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas believes the Premier League this season will be one of the tighest in recent years ahead of the visit of Chelsea on Saturday.
The White Hart Lane outfit were one of the division's busiest teams during the summer, with the likes of Paulinho, Roberto Soldado and Erik Lamela all breaking their transfer record as the club pre-empted the world-record sale of Gareth Bale to Real Madrid.
Tottenham have won four of their first five games this term, and host rivals Chelsea on Saturday, and manager Villas-Boas says the game will give him an indication of what the club can achieve this term.
"We want to do well against a team that won the European Cup two years ago, won the Europa League that we wanted so much last season. This is the kind of game that you can measure the kind of challenges you might have," Villas-Boas told reporters.
"What is happening to us now puts us in a positive mood and we have to collect as many points as possible based on the positive mood we are developing, but it can change very, very quickly.
"At the moment we are on a good run, but there are no clubs on maximum points and this year will be very tight at the top. [Manchester] United are struggling for points, but they have played all the top team at the beginning of the season.
"This will probably become the tightest Premier League in years. It's important for everybody [to win this game]. It would be extremely good to build on our positive start, especially against a good team."
The fixture sees Villas-Boas come up against Jose Mourinho, for whom he worked as a scout and coach at Porto, Chelsea and Inter.
He said he enjoyed an "excellent" relationship with the former Real Madrid manager, but had to move on to match his personal goals.
"Our break-up point was because I was full of ambition to give him something extra and I wanted further involvement than the job I was doing at that time, which was scouting and match preparation," the 35-year-old added.
"I felt I could give him much more, so my initial idea was to keep on working with him.
"But he didn't feel the need for somebody near to him or in another position as an assistant, and because of that it was decided that it was time, after Inter Milan, to continue our careers [apart]."
Napoli cannot win them all - Benitez
Napoli boss Rafa Benitez has insisted his side cannot be expected to win every game on the back of their 1-1 draw with Sassuolo on Wednesday.
The Partenopei had stormed to a 100 per cent start to the season, with four wins in Serie A and a 2-1 triumph over last year's Champions League runners up Borussia Dortmund in their only European clash this campaign.
However, the side that were beaten 7-0 by Inter at the weekend shocked the Naples-based club by putting up a resilient fight to earn a point at the Stadio San Paolo, leaving Benitez dissatisfied but not fearful of a drop in form.
"I have faith in the squad and it’s only natural that we won’t win all of the games," he told Sky Sport. "We played well, but so did Sassuolo. I think the result had more to do with Sassuolo’s performance than ours.
"We have to work on some things in training, such as how quickly we moved the ball, but I was pleased with our effort tonight. I am not satisfied, obviously, but I am not worried either.
"We played on the same level as the other performances but, if you play every three days and face a side that lost 7-0 last time out, you risk underestimating the challenge.
"We faced a team that were organised and knew what to do, proving the 7-0 to Inter was an aberration rather than a true reflection of Sassuolo."
Napoli's next game is away to Genoa on Saturday as they look to bounce back having slipped from top of the table to second behind Roma, who have won all four of their games.
Napoli boss Rafa Benitez has insisted his side cannot be expected to win every game on the back of their 1-1 draw with Sassuolo on Wednesday.
The Partenopei had stormed to a 100 per cent start to the season, with four wins in Serie A and a 2-1 triumph over last year's Champions League runners up Borussia Dortmund in their only European clash this campaign.
However, the side that were beaten 7-0 by Inter at the weekend shocked the Naples-based club by putting up a resilient fight to earn a point at the Stadio San Paolo, leaving Benitez dissatisfied but not fearful of a drop in form.
"I have faith in the squad and it’s only natural that we won’t win all of the games," he told Sky Sport. "We played well, but so did Sassuolo. I think the result had more to do with Sassuolo’s performance than ours.
"We have to work on some things in training, such as how quickly we moved the ball, but I was pleased with our effort tonight. I am not satisfied, obviously, but I am not worried either.
"We played on the same level as the other performances but, if you play every three days and face a side that lost 7-0 last time out, you risk underestimating the challenge.
"We faced a team that were organised and knew what to do, proving the 7-0 to Inter was an aberration rather than a true reflection of Sassuolo."
Napoli's next game is away to Genoa on Saturday as they look to bounce back having slipped from top of the table to second behind Roma, who have won all four of their games.
Liverpool to discuss new Suarez contract in summer
Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre says the club will offer Luis Suarez a new contract at the end of the season.
The Uruguay international made no secret of his desire to leave Anfield over the summer, with Arsenal seeing two bids for the striker rejected, and Ayre recently claimed the player had damaged Liverpool’s brand.
Suarez returned to Brendan Rodgers' starting line-up for Wednesday’s Capital One Cup defeat to Manchester United after serving a 10-game ban and Ayre is determined to retain his services for the foreseeable future.
"We sort of begin those type of discussions two years in from the end, so it'll be the end of this season," Ayre told Sky Sports News.
"We'll do the same with everyone and at the right time we'll have the discussion with Luis and his advisors."
Rodgers accused Arsenal of "lacking class" after submitting a controversial £40,000,001 bid for the striker in the hope of triggering a supposed buy-out clause in his contract, but Ayre insists he holds no grudges against the Gunners or counterpart Ivan Gazidis.
"That's the transfer market," he continued. "I have huge respect for Arsenal, they're a great football club, with some great people. I'm good friends with Ivan. Trying to get players, making offers for players, it's all part of the game.
"Anyone who says it isn't and makes a big noise is not really being honest. Everybody does the same thing in football, everybody's trying to achieve the same thing, we're all trying our best to buy the best players for the best price."
Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre says the club will offer Luis Suarez a new contract at the end of the season.
The Uruguay international made no secret of his desire to leave Anfield over the summer, with Arsenal seeing two bids for the striker rejected, and Ayre recently claimed the player had damaged Liverpool’s brand.
Suarez returned to Brendan Rodgers' starting line-up for Wednesday’s Capital One Cup defeat to Manchester United after serving a 10-game ban and Ayre is determined to retain his services for the foreseeable future.
"We sort of begin those type of discussions two years in from the end, so it'll be the end of this season," Ayre told Sky Sports News.
"We'll do the same with everyone and at the right time we'll have the discussion with Luis and his advisors."
Rodgers accused Arsenal of "lacking class" after submitting a controversial £40,000,001 bid for the striker in the hope of triggering a supposed buy-out clause in his contract, but Ayre insists he holds no grudges against the Gunners or counterpart Ivan Gazidis.
"That's the transfer market," he continued. "I have huge respect for Arsenal, they're a great football club, with some great people. I'm good friends with Ivan. Trying to get players, making offers for players, it's all part of the game.
"Anyone who says it isn't and makes a big noise is not really being honest. Everybody does the same thing in football, everybody's trying to achieve the same thing, we're all trying our best to buy the best players for the best price."
Ozil surprised by quality of Arsenal youngsters
Mesut Ozil says he has been taken aback by the depth of quality in the Arsenal squad since moving to the Emirates Stadium, with the club's youngsters particularly impressing.
Arsene Wenger's youthful line-up knocked West Brom out of the Capital One Cup on penalties on Wednesday night, and the Germany international singled out compatriots Serge Gnabry and goal scorer Thomas Eisfeld for praise.
In a Twitter Q&A session on Thursday, Ozil told fans: "They [Eisfeld and Gnabry] are very talented. They have to develop further, but they are on the right track."
The 24-year-old was also asked which of his new team-mates has impressed him the most since joining, but instead stressed the quality of the collective, stating: "I don't just want to say one player, I am surprised by the technical quality of the whole team."
The €50 million man was keen to credit the fans for helping him to settle in London and was effusive in his praise of life in the capital city.
"They have been very positive and I know they have a lot of support for me," he continued. "The city is unbelievable, it's really nice. There is so much to do here"
Ozil adaptation to the Premier League has been made all the easier by his multilingual manager, and admits he is still communicating in German with the boss.
"We speak in German at the moment," he explained. "He can speak very well."
With four assists in just two league games, the former Real Madrid man is already living up to the hype that surrounded his arrival in the Premier League, but feels there is still room for improvement in his performances.
He added: "I don't want to praise myself too much but I think my statistics are good. However, I would like to score more goals."
Mesut Ozil says he has been taken aback by the depth of quality in the Arsenal squad since moving to the Emirates Stadium, with the club's youngsters particularly impressing.
Arsene Wenger's youthful line-up knocked West Brom out of the Capital One Cup on penalties on Wednesday night, and the Germany international singled out compatriots Serge Gnabry and goal scorer Thomas Eisfeld for praise.
In a Twitter Q&A session on Thursday, Ozil told fans: "They [Eisfeld and Gnabry] are very talented. They have to develop further, but they are on the right track."
The 24-year-old was also asked which of his new team-mates has impressed him the most since joining, but instead stressed the quality of the collective, stating: "I don't just want to say one player, I am surprised by the technical quality of the whole team."
The €50 million man was keen to credit the fans for helping him to settle in London and was effusive in his praise of life in the capital city.
"They have been very positive and I know they have a lot of support for me," he continued. "The city is unbelievable, it's really nice. There is so much to do here"
Ozil adaptation to the Premier League has been made all the easier by his multilingual manager, and admits he is still communicating in German with the boss.
"We speak in German at the moment," he explained. "He can speak very well."
With four assists in just two league games, the former Real Madrid man is already living up to the hype that surrounded his arrival in the Premier League, but feels there is still room for improvement in his performances.
He added: "I don't want to praise myself too much but I think my statistics are good. However, I would like to score more goals."
Klose undergoes foot surgery
Lazio will be without Miroslav Klose for an estimated two weeks after the striker underwent minor surgery on a foot injury.
The Germany international returned to his homeland to consult a specialist in Munich after suffering a recurrence of inflammation around the metatarsal bones in his right foot, with the decision subsequently taken to operate.However, Lazio are confident of having the ex-Bayern Munich forward available after the international break, with the away fixture against Atalanta on October 20 pencilled in as a potential date for his return.
Lazio have made a solid start to their Serie A campaign, having won three and lost two of their opening five fixtures, and sit sixth in the league.Klose, 35, has found the target once in his four games and Lazio will be keen to have him available soon to boost their striking options.
The Rome outfit visit Sassuolo on Sunday, who will be buoyed by gaining their first point of the season in a 1-1 away draw with high-flying Napoli on Wednesday having been thrashed 7-0 by Inter the weekend before.
Lazio will be without Miroslav Klose for an estimated two weeks after the striker underwent minor surgery on a foot injury.
The Germany international returned to his homeland to consult a specialist in Munich after suffering a recurrence of inflammation around the metatarsal bones in his right foot, with the decision subsequently taken to operate.However, Lazio are confident of having the ex-Bayern Munich forward available after the international break, with the away fixture against Atalanta on October 20 pencilled in as a potential date for his return.
Lazio have made a solid start to their Serie A campaign, having won three and lost two of their opening five fixtures, and sit sixth in the league.Klose, 35, has found the target once in his four games and Lazio will be keen to have him available soon to boost their striking options.
The Rome outfit visit Sassuolo on Sunday, who will be buoyed by gaining their first point of the season in a 1-1 away draw with high-flying Napoli on Wednesday having been thrashed 7-0 by Inter the weekend before.
Chelsea star Van Ginkel ruled out for six months
Chelsea midfielder Marco van Ginkel has been ruled out of action for six months after undergoing surgery on a knee injury sustained against Swindon Town.
The Netherlands international lasted just 10 minutes of Tuesday's Capital One Cup tie following a challenge by Alex Pritchard, and will now sit out the majority of the season.
Van Ginkel, who only joined the club from Vitesse during the summer, was making just his second start for the club and is now not expected to return before April.
After the game, Chelsea assistant first-team coach Steve Holland said of the injury: "We've got an injury to Marco which, it's a little bit too early to be certain, but it doesn't look good.
"He'll have a scan on Wednesday on an injury to his knee. It's too early to say [if it's a bad one) but let's hope that's not the case.
"It didn't look good as he came off so early in the game. We'll have to see the results of the scan, we'll know more on Wednesday."Fellow midfielder Ramires was another injury concern on Tuesday night, and is expected to miss Saturday's Premier League clash with rivals Tottenham.
Chelsea midfielder Marco van Ginkel has been ruled out of action for six months after undergoing surgery on a knee injury sustained against Swindon Town.
The Netherlands international lasted just 10 minutes of Tuesday's Capital One Cup tie following a challenge by Alex Pritchard, and will now sit out the majority of the season.
Van Ginkel, who only joined the club from Vitesse during the summer, was making just his second start for the club and is now not expected to return before April.
After the game, Chelsea assistant first-team coach Steve Holland said of the injury: "We've got an injury to Marco which, it's a little bit too early to be certain, but it doesn't look good.
"He'll have a scan on Wednesday on an injury to his knee. It's too early to say [if it's a bad one) but let's hope that's not the case.
"It didn't look good as he came off so early in the game. We'll have to see the results of the scan, we'll know more on Wednesday."Fellow midfielder Ramires was another injury concern on Tuesday night, and is expected to miss Saturday's Premier League clash with rivals Tottenham.
Gotze looking forward to Lewandowski arrival
Bayern Munich midfielder Mario Gotze has revealed his excitement about potentially being reunited with striker Robert Lewandowski at the Allianz Arena.
The Bavarians failed to lure the 25-year-old Pole away from Borussia Dortmund this summer, but on Tuesday the forward signalled his intent to sign a deal with the treble winners in January with an eye to leave Signal Iduna Park at the end of 2013-14.
Although Lewandowski has since backtracked somewhat on his comments, Gotze is looking forward to the prospect of linking up with his ex-Dortmund team-mate once again under Pep Guardiola.
"If Lewandowski should come to us, I would be pleased," the 21-year-old told Bild.
"Robbie and I had a very good understanding at BVB. He is an exceptional striker!"
The Germany international also praised Dortmund star Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who was signed as his successor by Jurgen Klopp this summer when Gotze left for €37 million, and suggested he will be an asset for the club in Europe especially this season.
"I think he's doing well," he added. "You can see that he can play. I have noticed he will be positive in the Champions League for Dortmund [in particular]."
Dortmund defeated Bayern 4-2 in the DFL-Supercup but Guardiola's side can get revenge on the Schwarzgelben on November 23 when they visit Signal Iduna Park once again.
Bayern Munich midfielder Mario Gotze has revealed his excitement about potentially being reunited with striker Robert Lewandowski at the Allianz Arena.
The Bavarians failed to lure the 25-year-old Pole away from Borussia Dortmund this summer, but on Tuesday the forward signalled his intent to sign a deal with the treble winners in January with an eye to leave Signal Iduna Park at the end of 2013-14.
Although Lewandowski has since backtracked somewhat on his comments, Gotze is looking forward to the prospect of linking up with his ex-Dortmund team-mate once again under Pep Guardiola.
"If Lewandowski should come to us, I would be pleased," the 21-year-old told Bild.
"Robbie and I had a very good understanding at BVB. He is an exceptional striker!"
The Germany international also praised Dortmund star Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who was signed as his successor by Jurgen Klopp this summer when Gotze left for €37 million, and suggested he will be an asset for the club in Europe especially this season.
"I think he's doing well," he added. "You can see that he can play. I have noticed he will be positive in the Champions League for Dortmund [in particular]."
Dortmund defeated Bayern 4-2 in the DFL-Supercup but Guardiola's side can get revenge on the Schwarzgelben on November 23 when they visit Signal Iduna Park once again.
Bolt: I can help Bale like I did Ronaldo
Olympic sprinting icon Usain Bolt wants to help Gareth Bale improve his speed like he did with Real Madrid team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo.
Bale, 24, made his move to the Santiago Bernabeu this summer for a world record €100 million fee, but the reigning 100m and 200m World and Olympic champion believes that he can make the Welshman an even more phenomenal player.
"I think Gareth is probably the fastest player in the world at the moment - but I will help him with his sprinting if he wants," Bolt is quoted as saying by The Daily Mail.
"It is not just about how fast you can accelerate - but also when you have the football at your feet about balance while you are sprinting as well. I helped Ronaldo with his sprinting in a training session - and look what he has go on to achieve since then.
"I have a lot of respect for Real Madrid - and if they and Gareth want my help I am happy to fly in and take a private training session with Gareth. I hear that he has been clocking speeds close to me - but it is about technique as well.
"I know I could make him an even better player than he already is."
Bale was absent from Real Madrid's last-gasp, controversial win over Elche on Wednesday after picking up a minor injury at the weekend.
Olympic sprinting icon Usain Bolt wants to help Gareth Bale improve his speed like he did with Real Madrid team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo.
Bale, 24, made his move to the Santiago Bernabeu this summer for a world record €100 million fee, but the reigning 100m and 200m World and Olympic champion believes that he can make the Welshman an even more phenomenal player.
"I think Gareth is probably the fastest player in the world at the moment - but I will help him with his sprinting if he wants," Bolt is quoted as saying by The Daily Mail.
"It is not just about how fast you can accelerate - but also when you have the football at your feet about balance while you are sprinting as well. I helped Ronaldo with his sprinting in a training session - and look what he has go on to achieve since then.
"I have a lot of respect for Real Madrid - and if they and Gareth want my help I am happy to fly in and take a private training session with Gareth. I hear that he has been clocking speeds close to me - but it is about technique as well.
"I know I could make him an even better player than he already is."
Bale was absent from Real Madrid's last-gasp, controversial win over Elche on Wednesday after picking up a minor injury at the weekend.
Aubameyang: Dortmund can trouble Bayern
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is confident that Borussia Dortmund have what it takes to challenge Bayern Munich for the Bundesliga title.
Jurgen Klopp's men have been in impressive form in the opening months of the league season and currently share top spot in the table with the reigning champions after racking up 16 points from six games.
"We hope that we can trouble Bayern. We definitely have the means for it. We will have to wait until the end of the season to see whether we will be successful," Aubameyang told Goal.
"We know that Bayern are still slightly ahead of us. But we beat them in the German Supercup and can compete with them."
The 24-year-old then went on to discuss his move from Saint-Etienne to Dortmund this summer and voiced his satisfaction with the way he's adapted to the Bundesliga.
"I owe a lot to Jurgen Klopp, who's given me a lot of confidence. Plus the team has received me really well. When everything goes well like this, it's great to be out there on the pitch and see the hard work pay off.
"All the teams in the Bundesliga play good football. It's never easy here. All the stadiums are sold out and the fans here are amazing. I love the spectacle here."
Aubameyang has netted five goals in six Bundesliga appearances so far.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is confident that Borussia Dortmund have what it takes to challenge Bayern Munich for the Bundesliga title.
Jurgen Klopp's men have been in impressive form in the opening months of the league season and currently share top spot in the table with the reigning champions after racking up 16 points from six games.
"We hope that we can trouble Bayern. We definitely have the means for it. We will have to wait until the end of the season to see whether we will be successful," Aubameyang told Goal.
"We know that Bayern are still slightly ahead of us. But we beat them in the German Supercup and can compete with them."
The 24-year-old then went on to discuss his move from Saint-Etienne to Dortmund this summer and voiced his satisfaction with the way he's adapted to the Bundesliga.
"I owe a lot to Jurgen Klopp, who's given me a lot of confidence. Plus the team has received me really well. When everything goes well like this, it's great to be out there on the pitch and see the hard work pay off.
"All the teams in the Bundesliga play good football. It's never easy here. All the stadiums are sold out and the fans here are amazing. I love the spectacle here."
Aubameyang has netted five goals in six Bundesliga appearances so far.
Kagawa still has room to improve, insists Moyes
Manchester United manager David Moyes insists Shinji Kagawa is yet to convince him he is worthy of a regular first team place, despite Wednesday’s encouraging performance against Liverpool in the Capital One Cup.
The Japan international has been on the periphery so far this season under Moyes having failed to make the squad for the champions’ trip to Anfield earlier this month and featuring only as an unused substitute in the 4-1 defeat against Manchester City last weekend.
Kagawa was restored to the starting line-up for the 1-0 victory over Brendan Rodgers’ side and although he displayed glimpses of the talent that persuaded Sir Alex Ferguson to pay Borussia Dortmund €20 million for his services last summer, Moyes still believes the 24-year-old has significant room for improvement.
"He did OK. I thought he grew into the game a little bit more," Moyes told reporters after the victory which set up a fourth round clash at home to Norwich.
"There were bits which I was pleased with, and bits where we were looking for a little bit more. Overall, he's still getting back.
"A lot's been said [about his lack of playing time], but I think most people who watched would say he's still short of being really at full match fitness."
Manchester United manager David Moyes insists Shinji Kagawa is yet to convince him he is worthy of a regular first team place, despite Wednesday’s encouraging performance against Liverpool in the Capital One Cup.
The Japan international has been on the periphery so far this season under Moyes having failed to make the squad for the champions’ trip to Anfield earlier this month and featuring only as an unused substitute in the 4-1 defeat against Manchester City last weekend.
Kagawa was restored to the starting line-up for the 1-0 victory over Brendan Rodgers’ side and although he displayed glimpses of the talent that persuaded Sir Alex Ferguson to pay Borussia Dortmund €20 million for his services last summer, Moyes still believes the 24-year-old has significant room for improvement.
"He did OK. I thought he grew into the game a little bit more," Moyes told reporters after the victory which set up a fourth round clash at home to Norwich.
"There were bits which I was pleased with, and bits where we were looking for a little bit more. Overall, he's still getting back.
"A lot's been said [about his lack of playing time], but I think most people who watched would say he's still short of being really at full match fitness."
Villas-Boas predicts 'tightest Premier League in years'
Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas believes the Premier League this season will be one of the tighest in recent years ahead of the visit of Chelsea on Saturday.
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