Barcelona 5-1 Levante (agg. 9-2): Alexis double sees Catalans stroll into semis
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Montolivo: A new era has begun for AC Milan
Riccardo Montolivo feels the appointment of Clarence Seedorf as AC Milan's new head coach earlier this month signals the start of a new era for the San Siro side.
Seedorf replaced Massimiliano Allegri as the man in charge of the Rossoneri following their 4-3 defeat against Sassuolo on January 12.
Since then Milan have climbed to ninth in the table after collecting six points from Seedorf's opening two games, and Montolivo has hailed the Dutchman's impact since his arrival.
"With Seedorf in charge a new era has begun. Let’s hope it all goes well," Montolivo told reporters.
"I think the squad is competitive, the impact Clarence has had has been excellent and we want to climb the table."
Montolivo admits it has been difficult in Serie A this season, with the club struggling in mid-table.
However, having sealed progression from Group H in the Champions League, Montolivo is looking to continue the positive start under Seedorf with a good performance against high-flying Atletico Madrid.
"We’ve had a few problems in the league, while in the Champions League we’ve done really well," he continued.
"We’ve now got to face Atletico Madrid in the last-16 of the competition and we want to do well."
ko tawama win ekak nahane
Espanyol's Casilla is good enough for Real Madrid, says Raul Rodriguez
Espanyol defender Raul Rodriguez believes team-mate Kiko Casilla has what it takes to play for Real Madrid.
The Catalans have met Los Blancos three times this month, with Carlo Ancelotti's side winning 1-0 on each occasion: at Cornella in La Liga; in Barcelona again in the first leg of the sides' Copa del Rey quarter-final; and at the Santiago Bernabeu in Tuesday's return.
Casilla impressed in all three fixtures, though, making a series of saves to deny Cristiano Ronaldo a goal in each game and leave the Portuguese frustrated on a number of occasions.
"He made two or three great saves in the first 15 or 20 minutes, which is when Madrid attacked most," Rodriguez told Goal after Tuesday's match. "And he won the battle with Cristiano to go three games without letting in a goal against him.
"I remember the one when Ronaldo smiled after a save from Casilla, because he was in the six-yard box and even then, Kiko saved it!"
However, Rodriguez hopes his friend and team-mate will resist the lure of Los Blancos and remain at Espanyol.
"Kiko has been performing at a very high level for a year now - and he showed that in Madrid as well," he said.
"I am very happy for him and with how he is performing because he helps us a lot on the pitch - and because he is a great person."
And he added: "I wouldn't want to see Casilla in goal for Real Madrid, because that would mean he wasn't with us at Espanyol. But of course he has the ability to play for Real Madrid. No doubt!
"He is a great goalkeeper, playing at a very high level. He's a young kid, humble, makes saves, can play with his feet ... with the level he is playing at, he could play for any team."
Espanyol defender Raul Rodriguez believes team-mate Kiko Casilla has what it takes to play for Real Madrid.
The Catalans have met Los Blancos three times this month, with Carlo Ancelotti's side winning 1-0 on each occasion: at Cornella in La Liga; in Barcelona again in the first leg of the sides' Copa del Rey quarter-final; and at the Santiago Bernabeu in Tuesday's return.
Casilla impressed in all three fixtures, though, making a series of saves to deny Cristiano Ronaldo a goal in each game and leave the Portuguese frustrated on a number of occasions.
"He made two or three great saves in the first 15 or 20 minutes, which is when Madrid attacked most," Rodriguez told Goal after Tuesday's match. "And he won the battle with Cristiano to go three games without letting in a goal against him.
"I remember the one when Ronaldo smiled after a save from Casilla, because he was in the six-yard box and even then, Kiko saved it!"
However, Rodriguez hopes his friend and team-mate will resist the lure of Los Blancos and remain at Espanyol.
"Kiko has been performing at a very high level for a year now - and he showed that in Madrid as well," he said.
"I am very happy for him and with how he is performing because he helps us a lot on the pitch - and because he is a great person."
And he added: "I wouldn't want to see Casilla in goal for Real Madrid, because that would mean he wasn't with us at Espanyol. But of course he has the ability to play for Real Madrid. No doubt!
"He is a great goalkeeper, playing at a very high level. He's a young kid, humble, makes saves, can play with his feet ... with the level he is playing at, he could play for any team."
D'Ambrosio delighted with Inter move
Danilo D’Ambrosio revealed his ecstasy after completing his move from Torino to Inter on Thursday.
The 25-year-old, who can operate at both right and left full-back, has joined the Nerazzurri for an undisclosed fee on a four-and-a-half-year deal.
"What a feeling it is to be here, I'm really happy,” said D’Ambrosio, talking to Inter Channel.
“It's a proud moment for both me and my family: I've had to work my way up but now I'm at Inter and obviously I'm very proud.
“I can play on either flank. I'll give it everything when I'm called upon, I'm fighting fit and ready to give my all, right from the off.
"That's my pledge to the fans."
D’Ambrosio could make his debut for the club when they take on Juventus on February 2.
Danilo D’Ambrosio revealed his ecstasy after completing his move from Torino to Inter on Thursday.
The 25-year-old, who can operate at both right and left full-back, has joined the Nerazzurri for an undisclosed fee on a four-and-a-half-year deal.
"What a feeling it is to be here, I'm really happy,” said D’Ambrosio, talking to Inter Channel.
“It's a proud moment for both me and my family: I've had to work my way up but now I'm at Inter and obviously I'm very proud.
“I can play on either flank. I'll give it everything when I'm called upon, I'm fighting fit and ready to give my all, right from the off.
"That's my pledge to the fans."
D’Ambrosio could make his debut for the club when they take on Juventus on February 2.
Benitez: Boo boys won't help us
Rafael Benitez has defended Lorenzo Insigne after the Italian was booed off in Napoli’s 1-0 win over Lazio in the Coppa Italia on Wednesday.
Insigne gestured towards parts of the crowd that booed when he was substituted for Dries Mertens in the second half of the match.
“Insigne is a young lad and we have to be understanding of his situation,” said Benitez, speaking to Rai Sport.
“I ask the fans that if they have complaints, to keep hold of them until the final whistle. If they want to help the players, then jeering won’t do that.”
The Partenopei's Coppa Italia win set up a semi-final tie against Roma, and Benitez suggested that the fixture schedule could work in their opponent’s favour.
“Roma are a very strong side and have an advantage, as they only need to play one game per week,” said the Partenopei coach.
“They are not stronger than Napoli, but it makes a huge difference preparing for games in two days or in six.”
Marek Hamsik continued his comeback from injury in the game and Benitez gave special mention to the playmaker.
Benitez added: “We played almost two months without Marek Hamsik and his quality is important for the side.
“We knew he could be a little tired after working so hard in the last two games.”
Napoli travel to Atalanta for their next league game on February 2.
Rafael Benitez has defended Lorenzo Insigne after the Italian was booed off in Napoli’s 1-0 win over Lazio in the Coppa Italia on Wednesday.
Insigne gestured towards parts of the crowd that booed when he was substituted for Dries Mertens in the second half of the match.
“Insigne is a young lad and we have to be understanding of his situation,” said Benitez, speaking to Rai Sport.
“I ask the fans that if they have complaints, to keep hold of them until the final whistle. If they want to help the players, then jeering won’t do that.”
The Partenopei's Coppa Italia win set up a semi-final tie against Roma, and Benitez suggested that the fixture schedule could work in their opponent’s favour.
“Roma are a very strong side and have an advantage, as they only need to play one game per week,” said the Partenopei coach.
“They are not stronger than Napoli, but it makes a huge difference preparing for games in two days or in six.”
Marek Hamsik continued his comeback from injury in the game and Benitez gave special mention to the playmaker.
Benitez added: “We played almost two months without Marek Hamsik and his quality is important for the side.
“We knew he could be a little tired after working so hard in the last two games.”
Napoli travel to Atalanta for their next league game on February 2.
Taarabt arrives in Italy ahead of Milan move
AC Milan have announced that Adel Taarabt has arrived in Italy ahead of his move to the club.
The QPR midfielder has spent the season on loan at Fulham thus far, but will cut his stay at Craven Cottage short to join the Rossoneri.
And he has now touched down at Linate airport before completing his transfer to San Siro.
"Adel Taarabt, the 24-year-old Moroccan attacker landed at Milan Linate on a private flight," a club statement read.
"AC Milan will have to wait for the usual procedures before his transfer becomes official."
Taarabt will be the second player plundered from west London by Milan this January, with Michael Essien having already joined the club from Chelsea.
The France-born playmaker began his career at Lens before sealing a move to Tottenham at the age of 17. He first joined QPR in 2009 and sealed a permanent switch to Loftus Road in 2010 after two loan spells.
Following Harry Redknapp's side's relegation from the Premier League last season, he moved to Craven Cottage, but netted only once in 16 appearances for the club in all competitions.
"I’m very happy to be here and it’s an honor to play for the strongest team in Italy," Taarabt told reporters after landing in Milan."
"I already spoke to Seedorf and he told me what he expects of me. I can’t wait to start playing."
AC Milan have announced that Adel Taarabt has arrived in Italy ahead of his move to the club.
The QPR midfielder has spent the season on loan at Fulham thus far, but will cut his stay at Craven Cottage short to join the Rossoneri.
And he has now touched down at Linate airport before completing his transfer to San Siro.
"Adel Taarabt, the 24-year-old Moroccan attacker landed at Milan Linate on a private flight," a club statement read.
"AC Milan will have to wait for the usual procedures before his transfer becomes official."
Taarabt will be the second player plundered from west London by Milan this January, with Michael Essien having already joined the club from Chelsea.
The France-born playmaker began his career at Lens before sealing a move to Tottenham at the age of 17. He first joined QPR in 2009 and sealed a permanent switch to Loftus Road in 2010 after two loan spells.
Following Harry Redknapp's side's relegation from the Premier League last season, he moved to Craven Cottage, but netted only once in 16 appearances for the club in all competitions.
"I’m very happy to be here and it’s an honor to play for the strongest team in Italy," Taarabt told reporters after landing in Milan."
"I already spoke to Seedorf and he told me what he expects of me. I can’t wait to start playing."
Matuidi to snub Arsenal interest and extend Paris Saint-Germain contract
Blaise Matuidi will snub interest from Arsenal and sign a contract extension with Paris Saint-Germain.
The Gunners made an enquiry for the midfielder on Wednesday as they attempt to strengthen their central midfield ahead of Friday's transfer deadline.
But PSG do not want to sell Matuidi and have convinced the 26-year-old that his future lies with the French champions, with the player now set to sign an extension to his current deal, which is due to expire in the summer.
Arsenal have now turned their attention to Southampton's Morgan Schneiderlin as an alternative to Matuidi but have been quoted a price tag of £15 million for the 24-year-old.
Schneiderlin, who has established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League, signed a new contract with the Saints in February 2013 that runs until the summer of 2017.
Goal also revealed on Wednesday that Arsene Wenger is in the market for a midfielder as he deals with a growing crisis in the central area of his team.
Aaron Ramsey will be out for up to another six weeks after sustaining a fresh thigh injury in training on Monday, Jack Wilshere is expected to miss the next two games with a recurrence of his long-standing ankle problems, Mathieu Flamini has been suspended for four matches and Abou Diaby is out for the rest of the season.
With Mikel Arteta the last central midfielder still standing, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is likely to move in from the flanks and fill in during Sunday’s league match against Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium.
Ramsey's injury is a particularly severe blow to Arsenal's hopes of winning the Premier League title and progressing beyond the last-16 stage of the Champions League ahead of a demanding set of fixtures in March.
The 23-year-old broke down during a training drill on Monday when he aggravated a tendon under his thigh muscle. He was immediately sent for a scan, which revealed on Tuesday that he is expected to be sidelined for between four and six weeks.
Speaking on Thursday, Wenger admitted that the Welsh star faces an extended spell on the sidelines. "Ramsey will be out for longer because he had a setback and it doesn't look too good," he told the press. "It is matter of some weeks for him."
Ramsey had already been out since suffering a grade two thigh strain in Arsenal's Boxing Day win over West Ham.
Blaise Matuidi will snub interest from Arsenal and sign a contract extension with Paris Saint-Germain.
The Gunners made an enquiry for the midfielder on Wednesday as they attempt to strengthen their central midfield ahead of Friday's transfer deadline.
But PSG do not want to sell Matuidi and have convinced the 26-year-old that his future lies with the French champions, with the player now set to sign an extension to his current deal, which is due to expire in the summer.
Arsenal have now turned their attention to Southampton's Morgan Schneiderlin as an alternative to Matuidi but have been quoted a price tag of £15 million for the 24-year-old.
Schneiderlin, who has established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League, signed a new contract with the Saints in February 2013 that runs until the summer of 2017.
Goal also revealed on Wednesday that Arsene Wenger is in the market for a midfielder as he deals with a growing crisis in the central area of his team.
Aaron Ramsey will be out for up to another six weeks after sustaining a fresh thigh injury in training on Monday, Jack Wilshere is expected to miss the next two games with a recurrence of his long-standing ankle problems, Mathieu Flamini has been suspended for four matches and Abou Diaby is out for the rest of the season.
With Mikel Arteta the last central midfielder still standing, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is likely to move in from the flanks and fill in during Sunday’s league match against Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium.
Ramsey's injury is a particularly severe blow to Arsenal's hopes of winning the Premier League title and progressing beyond the last-16 stage of the Champions League ahead of a demanding set of fixtures in March.
The 23-year-old broke down during a training drill on Monday when he aggravated a tendon under his thigh muscle. He was immediately sent for a scan, which revealed on Tuesday that he is expected to be sidelined for between four and six weeks.
Speaking on Thursday, Wenger admitted that the Welsh star faces an extended spell on the sidelines. "Ramsey will be out for longer because he had a setback and it doesn't look too good," he told the press. "It is matter of some weeks for him."
Ramsey had already been out since suffering a grade two thigh strain in Arsenal's Boxing Day win over West Ham.
Kroos explains substitution strop
Bayern Munich’s Toni Kroos has admitted that he did not expect to be taken off during the game against Stuttgart on Wednesday.
With Bayern trailing 1-0, Kroos was replaced on the hour mark by Mario Mandzukic, before goals from Claudio Pizarro and Thiago gave the league leaders a 2-1 victory.
Kroos threw off his gloves and ignored his team-mates on the bench when leaving the pitch for Mandzukic and then revealed exactly why he had responded in that manner in a post-match interview.
Talking to Bild, Kroos said: "I simply did not expect to be substituted. Of course I have to accept that. Plus, I was really angry we were behind."
The Germany international’s contract expires in June 2015 and reports have linked the 24-year-old with a move to Manchester United after talks stalled over a new deal.
But Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has claimed that the club want to keep Kroos and will work on a suitable deal.
"I hope we will reach an agreement with Toni. He is a player that we want to keep in general,” said Rummenigge.
“Now we have to see whether we will manage to get a contract that satisfies Toni and FC Bayern the same way."
Bayern Munich’s Toni Kroos has admitted that he did not expect to be taken off during the game against Stuttgart on Wednesday.
With Bayern trailing 1-0, Kroos was replaced on the hour mark by Mario Mandzukic, before goals from Claudio Pizarro and Thiago gave the league leaders a 2-1 victory.
Kroos threw off his gloves and ignored his team-mates on the bench when leaving the pitch for Mandzukic and then revealed exactly why he had responded in that manner in a post-match interview.
Talking to Bild, Kroos said: "I simply did not expect to be substituted. Of course I have to accept that. Plus, I was really angry we were behind."
The Germany international’s contract expires in June 2015 and reports have linked the 24-year-old with a move to Manchester United after talks stalled over a new deal.
But Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has claimed that the club want to keep Kroos and will work on a suitable deal.
"I hope we will reach an agreement with Toni. He is a player that we want to keep in general,” said Rummenigge.
“Now we have to see whether we will manage to get a contract that satisfies Toni and FC Bayern the same way."
Jese: I've dreamt of winning the Ballon d'Or
Real Madrid’s Jese Rodriguez has revealed he has dreamt of winning the Ballon d’Or and targeted lifting the trophy within the next four years.
The 20-year-old scored the only goal in the second-leg of Madrid’s Copa del Rey quarter-final victory over Espanyol on Tuesday, and hopes to emulate his team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo’s achievements in the future.
"I've dreamed of winning the Ballon d'Or in four years,” said Jese in an interview with El Larguero.
But despite playing a starring role in helping the club to the semi-finals of the competition, Jese admits he faces a fight on his hands to get in the team with Gareth Bale set to return.
He said: “Bale is going to come back and show what a great player he is and why Real signed him.
“He is first choice and I am going to have to work my guts out to play.”
The attacker has netted four goals so far in his first full season in Madrid's senior side and claimed he wants to reach double figures by the season’s end.
Jese added: "The target for this first year is to reach 10 goals. I feel confident and I believe in myself, but I always respect all my team-mates."
"I'm grateful for the faith placed in me, but I've earned it by taking the chances I've been given."
Real Madrid’s Jese Rodriguez has revealed he has dreamt of winning the Ballon d’Or and targeted lifting the trophy within the next four years.
The 20-year-old scored the only goal in the second-leg of Madrid’s Copa del Rey quarter-final victory over Espanyol on Tuesday, and hopes to emulate his team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo’s achievements in the future.
"I've dreamed of winning the Ballon d'Or in four years,” said Jese in an interview with El Larguero.
But despite playing a starring role in helping the club to the semi-finals of the competition, Jese admits he faces a fight on his hands to get in the team with Gareth Bale set to return.
He said: “Bale is going to come back and show what a great player he is and why Real signed him.
“He is first choice and I am going to have to work my guts out to play.”
The attacker has netted four goals so far in his first full season in Madrid's senior side and claimed he wants to reach double figures by the season’s end.
Jese added: "The target for this first year is to reach 10 goals. I feel confident and I believe in myself, but I always respect all my team-mates."
"I'm grateful for the faith placed in me, but I've earned it by taking the chances I've been given."
Sunderland complete Scocco deal
Sunderland have completed the signing of Internacional striker Ignacio Scocco on a two-and-a-half year deal.
The 28-year-old only joined the Brazilian club in June 2013 but moves to the Premier League after a difficult spell in which he scored just four goals in 21 appearances.
Prior to the move to Internacional, Scocco led the line for Newell's Old Boys under current Barcelona manager Tata Martino, scoring 23 goals in 33 games to fire the Argentine outfit to the Torneo title.
Something of a nomad, he has previously played in Europe for AEK Athens and also moved to Al-Ain between his stints in Argentina and Brazil.
The Black Cats have been active in the transfer market as they look to avoid relegation and Scocco becomes Gus Poyet's fourth signing of the January window, following Oscar Ustari, Santiago Vergini and Marcos Alonso.
A 1-0 victory over Stoke on Wednesday night lifted Sunderland out of the relegation zone for the first time since August.
Sunderland have completed the signing of Internacional striker Ignacio Scocco on a two-and-a-half year deal.
The 28-year-old only joined the Brazilian club in June 2013 but moves to the Premier League after a difficult spell in which he scored just four goals in 21 appearances.
Prior to the move to Internacional, Scocco led the line for Newell's Old Boys under current Barcelona manager Tata Martino, scoring 23 goals in 33 games to fire the Argentine outfit to the Torneo title.
Something of a nomad, he has previously played in Europe for AEK Athens and also moved to Al-Ain between his stints in Argentina and Brazil.
The Black Cats have been active in the transfer market as they look to avoid relegation and Scocco becomes Gus Poyet's fourth signing of the January window, following Oscar Ustari, Santiago Vergini and Marcos Alonso.
A 1-0 victory over Stoke on Wednesday night lifted Sunderland out of the relegation zone for the first time since August.
Ribery and Benzema acquitted
Bayern Munich star Franck Ribery and Real Madrid's Karim Benzema have both been acquitted over charges of soliciting an under-age prostitute.
Ribery, 30, admitted to paying for sex with Zahia Dehar back in 2009, but denied being aware that she was younger than 18 at the time of the incident.
Benzema, 26, rejected all accusations of having any sexual involvement with the same girl, with the Criminal Court of Paris ruling there was not enough evidence to prosecute either player.
The age of consent in France is 15, but paying for intercourse with someone below the age of 18 is classed as having sex with a minor.
Ribery, Benzema and Zahia all opted not to attend the court case.
Bayern Munich star Franck Ribery and Real Madrid's Karim Benzema have both been acquitted over charges of soliciting an under-age prostitute.
Ribery, 30, admitted to paying for sex with Zahia Dehar back in 2009, but denied being aware that she was younger than 18 at the time of the incident.
Benzema, 26, rejected all accusations of having any sexual involvement with the same girl, with the Criminal Court of Paris ruling there was not enough evidence to prosecute either player.
The age of consent in France is 15, but paying for intercourse with someone below the age of 18 is classed as having sex with a minor.
Ribery, Benzema and Zahia all opted not to attend the court case.
Valencia sign Seydou Keita
Valencia have announced the signing of former Barcelona midfielder Seydou Keita until the end of the season, subject to the completion of a medical.
The veteran Malian midfielder had enjoyed a successful Liga career, first turning out for Sevilla in the 2007-08 season before moving to Camp Nou.
He left Spain after four years in Catalunya for Chinese side Dalian Aerbin in 2012, but has now returned to the Primera Division, initially for the next five months.
"The central midfielder Seydou Keita, subject to medical checks, has signed with Valencia until June 30, with the option of a further year," a club statement read.
"The Mali international, who had played with Dalian Aerbin in the Chinese Super League until December 31, will arrived at 16:35CET at Manises airport."
The 34-year-old began his professional career in France, turning out for Marseille, Lorient and Lens before his first move to Spain.
Valencia have announced the signing of former Barcelona midfielder Seydou Keita until the end of the season, subject to the completion of a medical.
The veteran Malian midfielder had enjoyed a successful Liga career, first turning out for Sevilla in the 2007-08 season before moving to Camp Nou.
He left Spain after four years in Catalunya for Chinese side Dalian Aerbin in 2012, but has now returned to the Primera Division, initially for the next five months.
"The central midfielder Seydou Keita, subject to medical checks, has signed with Valencia until June 30, with the option of a further year," a club statement read.
"The Mali international, who had played with Dalian Aerbin in the Chinese Super League until December 31, will arrived at 16:35CET at Manises airport."
The 34-year-old began his professional career in France, turning out for Marseille, Lorient and Lens before his first move to Spain.
PSG new-boy Cabaye reveals Newcastle agreement over January sale
Yohan Cabaye has revealed there was an agreement in place enabling him to leave Newcastle United in the January transfer window.
The France international completed his move to Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday, signing a three-and-a-half-year contract.
Having been unveiled as a PSG player, the 28-year-old expressed gratitude to Newcastle for sanctioning his exit, making reference to a failed bid from Arsenal in the previous window that led to him missing games at the start of the season.
"Last summer I wasn't able to leave but then there was another opportunity this winter and they (Newcastle) respected the agreement we had. So I'd like to say a big 'thank you' to them.
"It's true that there was an offer from Arsenal over the summer that was rejected and then the discussions stopped.
"There was interest there because they made Newcastle an offer for me, but Newcastle decided not to accept it.
"That was their choice and at the start it was hard to take, but looking back on things and considering how we played in the subsequent six months, it was the right choice."
A pivotal figure during his time at St James' Park, Cabaye scored seven goals in 19 Premier League appearances for Newcastle after Arsenal's offer was turned down.
Yohan Cabaye has revealed there was an agreement in place enabling him to leave Newcastle United in the January transfer window.
The France international completed his move to Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday, signing a three-and-a-half-year contract.
Having been unveiled as a PSG player, the 28-year-old expressed gratitude to Newcastle for sanctioning his exit, making reference to a failed bid from Arsenal in the previous window that led to him missing games at the start of the season.
"Last summer I wasn't able to leave but then there was another opportunity this winter and they (Newcastle) respected the agreement we had. So I'd like to say a big 'thank you' to them.
"It's true that there was an offer from Arsenal over the summer that was rejected and then the discussions stopped.
"There was interest there because they made Newcastle an offer for me, but Newcastle decided not to accept it.
"That was their choice and at the start it was hard to take, but looking back on things and considering how we played in the subsequent six months, it was the right choice."
A pivotal figure during his time at St James' Park, Cabaye scored seven goals in 19 Premier League appearances for Newcastle after Arsenal's offer was turned down.
Dortmund powerless to stop Bayern - Reus
Borussia Dortmund forward Marco Reus says he is resigned to the fact that Bayern Munich are unstoppable right now.
The reigning Bundesliga champions sit 13 points clear of second-placed Bayer Leverkusen in the 2013-14 standings, with Dortmund a further four points back, and Reus admits that his side are powerless to stop Pep Guardiola's side when they are in full flight.
"I have said it before: we can’t do anything against the fact that Bayern are winning almost everything right now," admitted Reus. "Right now they barely have weak points, it is tough for every opponent. That is especially the case for us, as we were struggling with injuries and couldn’t compensate them. Bayern are playing well, but life goes on and we will try as hard as possible.
Reus, speaking to Goal at a launch event for the PUMA evoPOWER boot, admitted that his side have been especially hit by the heavy schedule.
"I think we started well going into the season and won almost all our matches. Then the Champions League commenced and I believe we have done well so far, as we reached the next stage.
"However, we had some injuries to deal with and it was tough to cope with that because many important players were sidelined. But I think in terms of the DFB-Pokal and Champions League we have fulfilled our target so far. Of course we are aware that we haven't played a good Bundesliga season to this point."
The Germany forward admitted that the loss of Mario Gotze to Bayern last summer was a blow, while the imminent departure of Robert Lewandowski to the Allianz Arena will also leave BVB playing catch-up.
"Of course it is never good news if you hear players are leaving the club, especially if they are such important players as they were," said Reus. "Both of them were individually really good for us but that's football. They were following different aims, they just have one career and they made their decisions, life goes on and we will hopefully get some new players."
The 24-year-old had worthy praise, though, for Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp, who he believes can bring more success to the club with plenty still to play for this term.
"He is an incredibly great coach who has been successful even at this early stage in his career. He was successful with us as well and won some titles," Reus added. We won the Bundesliga twice and reached the Champions League final, won the DFB-Pokal.
"Last year we didn't win anything, but this campaign we are still running well in two competitions. I think in the Bundesliga it might be too difficult to catch up with Bayern. But we will try to get something this year. It's tough but everything is possible."
Borussia Dortmund forward Marco Reus says he is resigned to the fact that Bayern Munich are unstoppable right now.
The reigning Bundesliga champions sit 13 points clear of second-placed Bayer Leverkusen in the 2013-14 standings, with Dortmund a further four points back, and Reus admits that his side are powerless to stop Pep Guardiola's side when they are in full flight.
"I have said it before: we can’t do anything against the fact that Bayern are winning almost everything right now," admitted Reus. "Right now they barely have weak points, it is tough for every opponent. That is especially the case for us, as we were struggling with injuries and couldn’t compensate them. Bayern are playing well, but life goes on and we will try as hard as possible.
Reus, speaking to Goal at a launch event for the PUMA evoPOWER boot, admitted that his side have been especially hit by the heavy schedule.
"I think we started well going into the season and won almost all our matches. Then the Champions League commenced and I believe we have done well so far, as we reached the next stage.
"However, we had some injuries to deal with and it was tough to cope with that because many important players were sidelined. But I think in terms of the DFB-Pokal and Champions League we have fulfilled our target so far. Of course we are aware that we haven't played a good Bundesliga season to this point."
The Germany forward admitted that the loss of Mario Gotze to Bayern last summer was a blow, while the imminent departure of Robert Lewandowski to the Allianz Arena will also leave BVB playing catch-up.
"Of course it is never good news if you hear players are leaving the club, especially if they are such important players as they were," said Reus. "Both of them were individually really good for us but that's football. They were following different aims, they just have one career and they made their decisions, life goes on and we will hopefully get some new players."
The 24-year-old had worthy praise, though, for Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp, who he believes can bring more success to the club with plenty still to play for this term.
"He is an incredibly great coach who has been successful even at this early stage in his career. He was successful with us as well and won some titles," Reus added. We won the Bundesliga twice and reached the Champions League final, won the DFB-Pokal.
"Last year we didn't win anything, but this campaign we are still running well in two competitions. I think in the Bundesliga it might be too difficult to catch up with Bayern. But we will try to get something this year. It's tough but everything is possible."
Mata signing has lifted Manchester United, says Jones
Manchester United defender Phil Jones has hailed club-record signing Juan Mata's arrival at Old Trafford and says the Spaniard has lifted the struggling squad's spirits.
The 25-year-old playmaker joined from Chelsea in a £37.1 million deal and made a winning debut against Cardiff City, assisting the second goal in a 2-0 victory.
Jones believes Mata's introduction has given a huge boost to the reigning champions, who have stumbled in defence of their title, and is confident the Spain international can have a huge impact at the club.
“It makes an impact in the dressing room when you sign a player of that calibre. He is such a talented player on the ball. He has definitely lifted spirits in the dressing room and especially in training,” Jones told the club's official website.
“We want to impress and show him that we are what we are, that we are one of the best teams to be at. He came in against Cardiff. He has done well and I am sure he will be a huge asset and fantastic player for Manchester United, hopefully for many years to come.
“He sees the pass that sometimes no-one else sees. If he continues to make them, I am sure we will soon be climbing the table.”
Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie both returned to action in Tuesday's clash with Cardiff, the latter opening the scoring, but Jones refused to blame United's problems on the strikeforce's injury absence.
“Of course [it has been a factor], but it is no excuse,” added the England international.
“When you do miss players of that stature you need to find it elsewhere. I think we have done it in certain areas but not in the areas we would like. We are just delighted to get them back and firing again.”
Grenier: Lyon exit unlikely
Olympique Lyonnais attacker Clement Grenier has insisted that he is not likely to leave the club during the January transfer window.
The France international was heavily linked with Arsenal throughout last summer and recent reports have suggested that Newcastle want to bring him in this winter.
However, Grenier says he still has plenty to achieve at the Stade Gerland and is paying no attention to interest from St James' Park.
"I haven't got anything big to say on the subject," he is quoted as saying by Le 10 Sport.
"I'm not better informed of Newcastle's interest. I've got plenty of objectives with Lyon this season. I can almost say that I won't go to Newcastle."
Meanwhile, club president Jean-Michael Aulas has confirmed that offers are on the table for several of his stars, including Grenier.
"We will be very wise. We have players who have been approached: there have been proposals for Maxime Gonalons and Clement Grenier," he continued.
"There were also efforts for our attackers, especially a youngster who has been very successful, and Yoann Gourcuff too.
"That said, we took the decision to take the sporting rout and keep the team together because they are a cohesive group."
Olympique Lyonnais attacker Clement Grenier has insisted that he is not likely to leave the club during the January transfer window.
The France international was heavily linked with Arsenal throughout last summer and recent reports have suggested that Newcastle want to bring him in this winter.
However, Grenier says he still has plenty to achieve at the Stade Gerland and is paying no attention to interest from St James' Park.
"I haven't got anything big to say on the subject," he is quoted as saying by Le 10 Sport.
"I'm not better informed of Newcastle's interest. I've got plenty of objectives with Lyon this season. I can almost say that I won't go to Newcastle."
Meanwhile, club president Jean-Michael Aulas has confirmed that offers are on the table for several of his stars, including Grenier.
"We will be very wise. We have players who have been approached: there have been proposals for Maxime Gonalons and Clement Grenier," he continued.
"There were also efforts for our attackers, especially a youngster who has been very successful, and Yoann Gourcuff too.
"That said, we took the decision to take the sporting rout and keep the team together because they are a cohesive group."
Shaw to keep Manchester United & Chelsea waiting until summer
Luke Shaw is set to stay at Southampton this month ahead of a titanic £25 million battle to sign him this summer.
The 18-year-old left-back has been the subject of strong interest from Manchester United in the final week of the transfer window but he is happy to remain at St Mary's Stadium.
The boyhood Chelsea fan is ready to wait and see if the rumoured strong interest from Jose Mourinho's team materialises before sanctioning his advisers to push for a move.
Shaw's future is complicated by the fact that his management team Stellar Group also represent Ashley Cole, who wants a new Chelsea deal when his current contract expires in the summer.
As reported by Goal, United made a move for Shaw last week as they laid down an early marker in what is likely to be a concerted push for the left-back.
The Premier League champions opened preliminary talks with Southampton over a £20m move this month as they explored the possibility of following up the £37m capture of Juan Mata.
Manager David Moyes is in the market for a new left-back as he prepares for the possible departure of Patrice Evra, whose contract expires in the summer.
Shaw, 18, is the highest-rated English player in his age group. He is yet to be capped by England but made his debut for Southampton aged 18 and has already accumulated 51 first-team appearances for Mauricio Pochettino's exciting team.
Luke Shaw is set to stay at Southampton this month ahead of a titanic £25 million battle to sign him this summer.
The 18-year-old left-back has been the subject of strong interest from Manchester United in the final week of the transfer window but he is happy to remain at St Mary's Stadium.
The boyhood Chelsea fan is ready to wait and see if the rumoured strong interest from Jose Mourinho's team materialises before sanctioning his advisers to push for a move.
Shaw's future is complicated by the fact that his management team Stellar Group also represent Ashley Cole, who wants a new Chelsea deal when his current contract expires in the summer.
As reported by Goal, United made a move for Shaw last week as they laid down an early marker in what is likely to be a concerted push for the left-back.
The Premier League champions opened preliminary talks with Southampton over a £20m move this month as they explored the possibility of following up the £37m capture of Juan Mata.
Manager David Moyes is in the market for a new left-back as he prepares for the possible departure of Patrice Evra, whose contract expires in the summer.
Shaw, 18, is the highest-rated English player in his age group. He is yet to be capped by England but made his debut for Southampton aged 18 and has already accumulated 51 first-team appearances for Mauricio Pochettino's exciting team.
Arsenal consider options as Draxler deal drags on
Arsenal have targeted Miroslav Klose or Alvaro Morata as a short-term solution to their striker shortage in the event that they cannot seal a sensational late deal for Julian Draxler.
The Gunners are still locked in negotiations with Schalke as they try to broker an agreement for German starlet Draxler ahead of Friday's transfer deadline.
Arsene Wenger values Draxler at between €30 million and €35m, while Schalke value the 20-year-old at €45m - the release clause figure inserted in the five-year contract signed by Draxler last summer.
Any deal is also complicated by the Bundesliga club's desire to sign a replacement before sanctioning the forward's departure.
With Germany's transfer window due to close at 17.00GMT on Friday, Gunners boss Wenger has a backup plan in place, which involves signing either Klose from Lazio or Morata from Real Madrid until the end of the season. Goal has learned that Klose is the more likely of the pair to arrive at Emirates Stadium.
Klose is 35 but is expected to be in the Germany squad at this summer's World Cup and remains a regular scorer for club and country.
Morata, 21, is at the other end of the age scale but is only on the fringes of the Madrid team and los Blancos might consider a half-season in England a valuable learning experience for the Spain Under-21 international.
As revealed by Goal, a club delegation has been in Germany this week to negotiate deals for Schalke forward Draxler and Frankfurt right-back Sebastian Jung.
While the Gunners are still hopeful of pushing through the Draxler deal before Friday’s deadline, Schalke chief Horst Heldt has publicly claimed that he is "very sure" that the forward will remain with the German outfit for this season - and "probably even longer".
If the Gunners cannot finalise a transfer for Draxler before the window closes, they are expected to make another move in the summer. Similarly, Arsenal are putting in the groundwork now for a Jung deal this summer should contract rebel Bacary Sagna not sign a new agreement.
The north London club are also attempting to sign a midfielder before the window shuts. They have made an enquiry for Southampton's Morgan Schneiderlin after learning that Blaise Matuidi is set to sign a contract extension with Paris Saint-Germain.
Arsenal have targeted Miroslav Klose or Alvaro Morata as a short-term solution to their striker shortage in the event that they cannot seal a sensational late deal for Julian Draxler.
The Gunners are still locked in negotiations with Schalke as they try to broker an agreement for German starlet Draxler ahead of Friday's transfer deadline.
Arsene Wenger values Draxler at between €30 million and €35m, while Schalke value the 20-year-old at €45m - the release clause figure inserted in the five-year contract signed by Draxler last summer.
Any deal is also complicated by the Bundesliga club's desire to sign a replacement before sanctioning the forward's departure.
With Germany's transfer window due to close at 17.00GMT on Friday, Gunners boss Wenger has a backup plan in place, which involves signing either Klose from Lazio or Morata from Real Madrid until the end of the season. Goal has learned that Klose is the more likely of the pair to arrive at Emirates Stadium.
Klose is 35 but is expected to be in the Germany squad at this summer's World Cup and remains a regular scorer for club and country.
Morata, 21, is at the other end of the age scale but is only on the fringes of the Madrid team and los Blancos might consider a half-season in England a valuable learning experience for the Spain Under-21 international.
As revealed by Goal, a club delegation has been in Germany this week to negotiate deals for Schalke forward Draxler and Frankfurt right-back Sebastian Jung.
While the Gunners are still hopeful of pushing through the Draxler deal before Friday’s deadline, Schalke chief Horst Heldt has publicly claimed that he is "very sure" that the forward will remain with the German outfit for this season - and "probably even longer".
If the Gunners cannot finalise a transfer for Draxler before the window closes, they are expected to make another move in the summer. Similarly, Arsenal are putting in the groundwork now for a Jung deal this summer should contract rebel Bacary Sagna not sign a new agreement.
The north London club are also attempting to sign a midfielder before the window shuts. They have made an enquiry for Southampton's Morgan Schneiderlin after learning that Blaise Matuidi is set to sign a contract extension with Paris Saint-Germain.
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