Full Time
Olympiacos 2 Vs 0 Manchester United
Olympiacos Goal(s)
Dominguez 38'
Campbell 54'
Olympiacos Goal(s)
Dominguez 38'
Campbell 54'
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Poor Passing,Poor Attacking.Manchester United play karana widiyanam anthimai
Attack 1kak dunna nam dunne after 80th minute walin passe.Athakan just passing
Mokakda meh wela thiyenne
Big team 1kak set una nam kanawa loweth nathi wenna2nd leg 1kata 2 goal deflect 1kak.anemanda mona karaganida kiyala
Attack 1kak dunna nam dunne after 80th minute walin passe.Athakan just passingMokakda meh wela thiyenne
Big team 1kak set una nam kanawa loweth nathi wenna2nd leg 1kata 2 goal deflect 1kak.anemanda mona karaganida kiyala
me parath epl team tika last 16 walin kapeida mandaPoor Passing,Poor Attacking.Manchester United play karana widiyanam anthimai
Mokakda meh wela thiyenne
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Olympiakos 2-0 Manchester United: Greek tragedy for sorry Moyes
Manchester United's Champions League hopes took a major blow as they fell to a desperately disappointing 2-0 defeat to Olympiakos in Athens on Tuesday evening.
Alejandro Dominguez's diverted Giannis Maniatis' weak long-range effort with a fine flick to deceive David de Gea in the first half, while a fine solo goal from Joel Campbell early in the second half means the Red Devils need a big turnaround in the return leg.
David Moyes will be bitterly frustrated as his side failed to impose themselves on the game save for Robin van Persie blazing a golden chance over late on, and now knows that nothing less than a win in Manchester will prevent his first season in charge at United ending without a major trophy.
Out of both domestic cup competitions and uncomfortably adrift in the Premier League title race, Moyes spoke boldly this week of claiming Europe's top prize - but the message did not appear to get through to his players on a night of toil in Piraeus.
An instinctive 38th-minute flick from the excellent Dominguez gave Olympiacos a deserved lead before on-loan Arsenal forward Campbell ensured they will protect an two-goal cushion at Old Trafford on March 19th.
The visitors badly lacked a creative spark, with Moyes' decision to employ Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young in the wide midfield positions, while leaving Adnan Januzaj and Shinji Kagawa on the bench sure to come under the spotlight.
Nevertheless, the embattled former Everton boss should have had his blushes partially spared late on, yet Van Persie passed up a glorious chance with a clear sight of goal.
Top scorer Kostas Mitroglou's January departure to Fulham and a thigh injury suffered by seasoned forward Javier Saviola left 21-year-old Nigerian Michael Olaitan to lead the Olympiacos attack.
Moyes' men made a nervy start amid a fervent atmosphere in Stadio Georgios Karaiskakis - Rio Ferdinand twice losing possession in a matter of seconds before Dominguez's resulting shot was blocked.
Dominguez was Olympiacos' leading light in the opening exchanges and Nemanja Vidic was forced to make a last-ditch tackle to thwart the playmaker's storming eighth-minute solo run.
United belatedly settled and Tom Cleverley might have taken a 17th-minute chance, slashing over when the host failed to clear a corner.
Hernan Perez whipped a 26th-minute shot against the side netting and Olympiakos continued to carry the greater threat before going ahead in fortunate circumstance.
Campbell's cross was cleared as far as Giannis Maniatis and, although the midfielder's speculative effort appeared harmless, Dominguez was alert enough inside a crowded penalty area to divert the ball past David de Gea.
United almost found an instant response, Kostas Manolas heading Wayne Rooney's excellent free-kick from the left narrowly over his own bar, but an aimless pass into touch from Cleverley 30 seconds into the second half suggested their struggles were set to continue.
And so it proved in the 54th minute when Campbell greeted Michael Carrick's half-hearted attempt at a challenge with a nutmeg before curling a measured shot beyond De Gea from 25 yards.
With the tie slipping away, Moyes introduced Kagawa yet Giannis Maniatis went close to adding an improbable third, chesting down and firing over after Carrick failed to clear.
The hosts began to drop dangerously deep in the closing stages and United should have punished them with a vital away goal in the 81st minute, but Van Persie blasted off target having collected Chris Smalling's cross.
Zenit 2-4 Dortmund: Lewandowski double puts BVB firmly in control
A double from Robert Lewandowski put Borussia Dortmund firmly in control of their last-16 Champions League tie with Zenit, as the Germans recorded a thrilling 4-2 first-leg success in Russia.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Marco Reus punished a lacklustre start from the home side, who were playing a competitive fixture for the first time since December 11, as last year's runners-up significantly enhanced their chances of reaching the quarter-finals.
Oleg Shatov pulled a goal back for the hosts 12 minutes into the second half, only for Lewandowski to swiftly restore Dortmund's two-goal advantage with his fifth goal in the competition this season.
A penalty from Hulk in the 69th minute brought Zenit back within a goal once again, yet the hosts then allowed Lewandowski too much room in the penalty area and the Poland international doubled his tally.
The two sides meet again on March 19, with the Bundesliga side holding a considerable advantage having managed four away goals.
Dortmund took control of the game almost immediately as Zenit struggled to get back into the swing of competitive football.
Reus, starting his first game in three weeks, was immediately on the offensive and jinked his way into the penalty area in the fourth minute.
The 24-year-old could have gone down under the challenge of a defender but instead touched the ball to Mkhitaryan, who swept home.
A minute later the visitors were two goals ahead with Mkhitaryan and Reus again involved. Kevin Grosskreutz laid the Armenian's right-wing cross into the path of Reus and the latter sent a left-footed volley under Yuri Lodygin.
The Russian Premier League leaders slowly worked their way back into the game, but were initially unable to test Roman Weidenfeller.
With half an hour played Dortmund came close to extending their lead further as Lukasz Piszczek and Reus exchanged passes on the edge of the penalty area.
The ball broke for the forward but his curling effort flew just wide of Lodygin's goal.
After withstanding another strong start in the second half, Zenit halved their deficit through Shatov, although there were hints of offside in the build-up.
Salomon Rondon and Shatov both appeared to be offside when the ball was played into the penalty area, but play continued and the Venezuelan striker hit the post before Shatov fired home.
However, Dortmund came storming back, with Lewandowski playing a one-two with international team-mate Piszczek before beating Lodygin with a low strike.
A clumsy challenge by Piszczek on Viktor Fayzulin in the 68th minute saw Zenit awarded a penalty, which Hulk emphatically converted.
Yet Lewandowski offered another quick reply, firing low across Lodygin to seal the win in the 71st minute, after Reus had robbed Anatoliy Tymoshchuk inside the Zenit half.
A double from Robert Lewandowski put Borussia Dortmund firmly in control of their last-16 Champions League tie with Zenit, as the Germans recorded a thrilling 4-2 first-leg success in Russia.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Marco Reus punished a lacklustre start from the home side, who were playing a competitive fixture for the first time since December 11, as last year's runners-up significantly enhanced their chances of reaching the quarter-finals.
Oleg Shatov pulled a goal back for the hosts 12 minutes into the second half, only for Lewandowski to swiftly restore Dortmund's two-goal advantage with his fifth goal in the competition this season.
A penalty from Hulk in the 69th minute brought Zenit back within a goal once again, yet the hosts then allowed Lewandowski too much room in the penalty area and the Poland international doubled his tally.
The two sides meet again on March 19, with the Bundesliga side holding a considerable advantage having managed four away goals.
Dortmund took control of the game almost immediately as Zenit struggled to get back into the swing of competitive football.
Reus, starting his first game in three weeks, was immediately on the offensive and jinked his way into the penalty area in the fourth minute.
The 24-year-old could have gone down under the challenge of a defender but instead touched the ball to Mkhitaryan, who swept home.
A minute later the visitors were two goals ahead with Mkhitaryan and Reus again involved. Kevin Grosskreutz laid the Armenian's right-wing cross into the path of Reus and the latter sent a left-footed volley under Yuri Lodygin.
The Russian Premier League leaders slowly worked their way back into the game, but were initially unable to test Roman Weidenfeller.
With half an hour played Dortmund came close to extending their lead further as Lukasz Piszczek and Reus exchanged passes on the edge of the penalty area.
The ball broke for the forward but his curling effort flew just wide of Lodygin's goal.
After withstanding another strong start in the second half, Zenit halved their deficit through Shatov, although there were hints of offside in the build-up.
Salomon Rondon and Shatov both appeared to be offside when the ball was played into the penalty area, but play continued and the Venezuelan striker hit the post before Shatov fired home.
However, Dortmund came storming back, with Lewandowski playing a one-two with international team-mate Piszczek before beating Lodygin with a low strike.
A clumsy challenge by Piszczek on Viktor Fayzulin in the 68th minute saw Zenit awarded a penalty, which Hulk emphatically converted.
Yet Lewandowski offered another quick reply, firing low across Lodygin to seal the win in the 71st minute, after Reus had robbed Anatoliy Tymoshchuk inside the Zenit half.
Dortmund were tactically perfect against Zenit, beams Reus
Borussia Dortmund attacker Marco Reus claims his side's tactics "worked perfectly" in their 4-2 win over Zenit on Tuesday.
The Bundesliga side raced into an early lead through Reus and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, before Robert Lewandowski scored twice in the second half to put paid to Zenit's efforts at a comeback.
Reus was proud of the way BVB performed in the clash in Russia, but warned that the goals from Oleg Shatov and Hulk after the break proved that Jurgen Klopp's men cannot afford to sit back in the return leg at Signal Iduna Park.
"We started very well. Our tactics worked perfectly, we took an early 2-0 lead and put in a fine display, especially in the first half," the Germany international told Uefa's official website.
"In the second period we slacked off a bit and this should serve as a lesson to us for the return leg. Our 2-0 advantage was deserved, as was the final result, I think. I always say it doesn't matter what the individual does, but to win as a team, and that's what we have shown today.
"We should take it game by game. Today we took the first step towards the next round, but you could also see that an away team is always capable of scoring. We did a lot of the work today and so a lot of things would have to happen for us not to go through in the return leg. Nevertheless, we have to be on our guard.
"I am, of course, feeling good about my performance. It was important that the team won and we are very happy. We will take it one match at a time. In a couple of weeks we have the return leg in our stadium and we want to go through then."
Defender Lukasz Piszczek was pleased with his side's reaction following the humbling Bundesliga defeat to Hamburg at the weekend, but reserved special praise for Lewandowski, who will join Bayern Munich in the summer.
"We had quite a good start with the two goals and that made life a bit easier for us. But we were also very focused the whole time and were a bit unlucky to concede those two goals," he said.
"I don't think we were lacking concentration when we conceded, those two goals were a bit of a fluke for Zenit. We stood up well and were unlucky in those situations. We did well and I hope we play as well in the return leg.
"Robert [Lewandowski] is a world-class player. We are happy he is still with us and hope he will continue to play as well as he did today and over the past few weeks.
"We had to show a reaction after that match in Hamburg, as there were a lot of mistakes. It was not good for us, but we knew we had a very important match coming up and strongly focused on getting a very good result. We managed that."
Borussia Dortmund attacker Marco Reus claims his side's tactics "worked perfectly" in their 4-2 win over Zenit on Tuesday.
The Bundesliga side raced into an early lead through Reus and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, before Robert Lewandowski scored twice in the second half to put paid to Zenit's efforts at a comeback.
Reus was proud of the way BVB performed in the clash in Russia, but warned that the goals from Oleg Shatov and Hulk after the break proved that Jurgen Klopp's men cannot afford to sit back in the return leg at Signal Iduna Park.
"We started very well. Our tactics worked perfectly, we took an early 2-0 lead and put in a fine display, especially in the first half," the Germany international told Uefa's official website.
"In the second period we slacked off a bit and this should serve as a lesson to us for the return leg. Our 2-0 advantage was deserved, as was the final result, I think. I always say it doesn't matter what the individual does, but to win as a team, and that's what we have shown today.
"We should take it game by game. Today we took the first step towards the next round, but you could also see that an away team is always capable of scoring. We did a lot of the work today and so a lot of things would have to happen for us not to go through in the return leg. Nevertheless, we have to be on our guard.
"I am, of course, feeling good about my performance. It was important that the team won and we are very happy. We will take it one match at a time. In a couple of weeks we have the return leg in our stadium and we want to go through then."
Defender Lukasz Piszczek was pleased with his side's reaction following the humbling Bundesliga defeat to Hamburg at the weekend, but reserved special praise for Lewandowski, who will join Bayern Munich in the summer.
"We had quite a good start with the two goals and that made life a bit easier for us. But we were also very focused the whole time and were a bit unlucky to concede those two goals," he said.
"I don't think we were lacking concentration when we conceded, those two goals were a bit of a fluke for Zenit. We stood up well and were unlucky in those situations. We did well and I hope we play as well in the return leg.
"Robert [Lewandowski] is a world-class player. We are happy he is still with us and hope he will continue to play as well as he did today and over the past few weeks.
"We had to show a reaction after that match in Hamburg, as there were a lot of mistakes. It was not good for us, but we knew we had a very important match coming up and strongly focused on getting a very good result. We managed that."
Chelsea are '80 percent' favourites, says Galatasaray boss Mancini
Roberto Mancini has suggested that Chelsea have an "80 percent" chance of eliminating his Galatasaray side from the Champions League.The Turkish champions play host to the Premier League leaders on Wednesday in the first leg of their last-16 clash, and former Manchester City boss Mancini is fully aware of the threat posed by Jose Mournho's men.
The Italian coach feels the Turkish giants must focus on at least giving themselves a chance ahead of next month's return meeting at Stamford Bridge, but admits that the Europa League holders are undoubtedly favourites."Everyone knows Chelsea are one of the best teams in Europe," Mancini said. "They won [the] Europa League last year and [the] Champions League two years ago. They are used to playing these games every year and we know it will be difficult.
"I think Chelsea are top of the Premier League because they are a top team, with good players who can change the game at any moment. I think they are 80% [likely] to go through in this game.
"It's important we play well in this match because we want to play the return leg in London with some chance."Much has been made of the tie reuniting striker Didier Drogba with his former club, whom he led to Champions League glory with the winning penalty against Bayern Munich in his final Blues appearance in 2012.
Yet Galatasaray midfielder Wesley Sneijder will also be coming up against a familiar opponent, having won the Champions League under current Chelsea boss Mourinho during the duo's time together at Inter."Well, what can I say about him? We won this cup together," the Dutchman told Uefa's official club website.
"Of course we are friends outside the pitch but tomorrow [Wednesday] for 90 minutes we will not be friends. I respect him a lot as we all respect him and respect Chelsea. We want to go for the victory but with respect."Of course I have some special feelings with Mourinho because we won the treble and had a great year together.
"It's going to be a tough game but we have prepared well and we will see what happens - we feel really confident."If we are all 100%, we can achieve something."
Roberto Mancini has suggested that Chelsea have an "80 percent" chance of eliminating his Galatasaray side from the Champions League.The Turkish champions play host to the Premier League leaders on Wednesday in the first leg of their last-16 clash, and former Manchester City boss Mancini is fully aware of the threat posed by Jose Mournho's men.
The Italian coach feels the Turkish giants must focus on at least giving themselves a chance ahead of next month's return meeting at Stamford Bridge, but admits that the Europa League holders are undoubtedly favourites."Everyone knows Chelsea are one of the best teams in Europe," Mancini said. "They won [the] Europa League last year and [the] Champions League two years ago. They are used to playing these games every year and we know it will be difficult.
"I think Chelsea are top of the Premier League because they are a top team, with good players who can change the game at any moment. I think they are 80% [likely] to go through in this game.
"It's important we play well in this match because we want to play the return leg in London with some chance."Much has been made of the tie reuniting striker Didier Drogba with his former club, whom he led to Champions League glory with the winning penalty against Bayern Munich in his final Blues appearance in 2012.
Yet Galatasaray midfielder Wesley Sneijder will also be coming up against a familiar opponent, having won the Champions League under current Chelsea boss Mourinho during the duo's time together at Inter."Well, what can I say about him? We won this cup together," the Dutchman told Uefa's official club website.
"Of course we are friends outside the pitch but tomorrow [Wednesday] for 90 minutes we will not be friends. I respect him a lot as we all respect him and respect Chelsea. We want to go for the victory but with respect."Of course I have some special feelings with Mourinho because we won the treble and had a great year together.
"It's going to be a tough game but we have prepared well and we will see what happens - we feel really confident."If we are all 100%, we can achieve something."
'Frustrated' Ronaldo is primed for return - Alonso
A "frustrated" Cristiano Ronaldo is primed to return to action after missing three games due to suspension, according to Real Madrid team-mate Xabi Alonso.
The Portugal international was forced to serve a three-match domestic ban after being sent off against Athletic Bilbao at the beginning of February, but is in line to start against Schalke in Wednesday's Champions League last-16, first-leg tie.
And Alonso believes the leading scorer during the tournament's group stage is as focused as ever as he looks to put the ban behind him.
"He's been frustrated these last few days, but obviously for him not to play three games after Bilbao was unfair," Alonso told a press conference.
"But it's water under the bridge. He looks the same as ever. It's an important competition and everyone is very focused."
Madrid have enjoyed an impressive run of form since the winter break and Alonso is eager for his side to maintain their momentum against Schalke.
"They have players who've played a lot in the Champions League. We come here with the utmost respect. We expect a tough game," the midfielder continued.
"It's difficult to compare things with previous years, but we're in a good moment. We're progressing, and we cannot stop.
"We have to keep improving over the coming games. We're very solid, very compact, we know how to play, how to approach games."
Madrid's run of form, which has seen them seal a three-point lead at the top of La Liga, has been in part due to a change in system from coach Carlo Ancelotti, and Alonso believes his side's tactical flexibility can pay dividends as they push for silverware.
"With the 4-3-3, I play in front of the defence," the Spain international mused. "That changes responsibilities. The good thing is we can play with multitple systems, not just one."
A "frustrated" Cristiano Ronaldo is primed to return to action after missing three games due to suspension, according to Real Madrid team-mate Xabi Alonso.
The Portugal international was forced to serve a three-match domestic ban after being sent off against Athletic Bilbao at the beginning of February, but is in line to start against Schalke in Wednesday's Champions League last-16, first-leg tie.
And Alonso believes the leading scorer during the tournament's group stage is as focused as ever as he looks to put the ban behind him.
"He's been frustrated these last few days, but obviously for him not to play three games after Bilbao was unfair," Alonso told a press conference.
"But it's water under the bridge. He looks the same as ever. It's an important competition and everyone is very focused."
Madrid have enjoyed an impressive run of form since the winter break and Alonso is eager for his side to maintain their momentum against Schalke.
"They have players who've played a lot in the Champions League. We come here with the utmost respect. We expect a tough game," the midfielder continued.
"It's difficult to compare things with previous years, but we're in a good moment. We're progressing, and we cannot stop.
"We have to keep improving over the coming games. We're very solid, very compact, we know how to play, how to approach games."
Madrid's run of form, which has seen them seal a three-point lead at the top of La Liga, has been in part due to a change in system from coach Carlo Ancelotti, and Alonso believes his side's tactical flexibility can pay dividends as they push for silverware.
"With the 4-3-3, I play in front of the defence," the Spain international mused. "That changes responsibilities. The good thing is we can play with multitple systems, not just one."
Juventus fined €25,000 over Superga banners
Juventus have been fined €25,000 after their fans displayed banners referencing the Superga air disaster in Sunday's 1-0 win over Torino.
Carlos Tevez scored the only goal of the encounter after 30 minutes at Juventus Stadium, but a section of home fans caused controversy when they appeared to mock the 1949 crash, which killed 18 members of the Torino squad, along with club officials and journalists.Reports suggested that Juve could be hit with a partial stadium closure, but their punishment has been restricted to a one-off financial penalty.
The Lega Serie A judgement alleged that fans "displayed two banners insulting the memory of the tragedy of Superga".Juve were fined €10,000 for a similar incident in 2012, and president Andrea Agnelli warned supporters over their conduct on Monday.
"Tragedies are not to be touched upon," he said in a statement on the club's official Twitter account. "No more vile chants or banners. From anyone."
Juventus have been fined €25,000 after their fans displayed banners referencing the Superga air disaster in Sunday's 1-0 win over Torino.
Carlos Tevez scored the only goal of the encounter after 30 minutes at Juventus Stadium, but a section of home fans caused controversy when they appeared to mock the 1949 crash, which killed 18 members of the Torino squad, along with club officials and journalists.Reports suggested that Juve could be hit with a partial stadium closure, but their punishment has been restricted to a one-off financial penalty.
The Lega Serie A judgement alleged that fans "displayed two banners insulting the memory of the tragedy of Superga".Juve were fined €10,000 for a similar incident in 2012, and president Andrea Agnelli warned supporters over their conduct on Monday.
"Tragedies are not to be touched upon," he said in a statement on the club's official Twitter account. "No more vile chants or banners. From anyone."
Sneijder: Mourinho friendship put to one side
Wesley Sneijder says pleasantries between him and former coach Jose Mourinho will be put to one side when Galatasaray play Chelsea in the last 16 of the Champions League.
Sneijder was part of the Portuguese's Inter side that won Serie A, the Champions League and the Coppa Italia to become the first Italian outfit to complete the treble.
On Wednesday the Dutchman, who helped seal Galatasaray's place in the last 16 with a 1-0 victory over Juventus, will once again meet Mourinho, but says the friendship will be forgotten about once he crosses touchline at the Turk Telekom Arena.
"What can I say about Mourinho?" Sneijder told Uefa's official club website. "We won this trophy together. But tomorrow is completely different, although outside the match we are friends.
"It's an important game, a game I want to win. I respect him a lot as we all respect Chelsea. We want to go all out for victory. A goal against Juventus won't change the world. It was a big achievement but we want more."
When asked to give his thoughts on the difference in coaching styles between current boss Roberto Mancini and Mourinho, he said: "I have to say that all coaches are different. I have had good ones and not-so-good ones. But those two, they are both good.
"I am very honest. Of course I have special feelings for Mourinho because we won the treble together. In our home games especially we are playing really well and tomorrow we'll be at home. Roberto Mancini and Jose Mourinho are different coaches in terms of personality but they are both good tactically."
The 29-year-old says Galatasaray will be full of confidence heading into the clash with the Blues.
The Turk Telekom Arena has been notoriously difficult for visitors, with Gala keeping six consecutive home clean sheets, including a 1-0 victory over fierce rivals Besiktas this weekend.
Mancini's men are also undefeated since their 6-1 loss to Real Madrid in September and Sneijder is hoping for the run to continue at the expense of Chelsea.
"This will be a very important game but also a very nice one to play," he continued. "It's amazing what we have achieved. Now we are here, we want more. It will be difficult.
"We feel confident as we had a good result at the weekend. We have to go for it and have to believe in it. Playing these games is good for the players at this level."
Wesley Sneijder says pleasantries between him and former coach Jose Mourinho will be put to one side when Galatasaray play Chelsea in the last 16 of the Champions League.
Sneijder was part of the Portuguese's Inter side that won Serie A, the Champions League and the Coppa Italia to become the first Italian outfit to complete the treble.
On Wednesday the Dutchman, who helped seal Galatasaray's place in the last 16 with a 1-0 victory over Juventus, will once again meet Mourinho, but says the friendship will be forgotten about once he crosses touchline at the Turk Telekom Arena.
"What can I say about Mourinho?" Sneijder told Uefa's official club website. "We won this trophy together. But tomorrow is completely different, although outside the match we are friends.
"It's an important game, a game I want to win. I respect him a lot as we all respect Chelsea. We want to go all out for victory. A goal against Juventus won't change the world. It was a big achievement but we want more."
When asked to give his thoughts on the difference in coaching styles between current boss Roberto Mancini and Mourinho, he said: "I have to say that all coaches are different. I have had good ones and not-so-good ones. But those two, they are both good.
"I am very honest. Of course I have special feelings for Mourinho because we won the treble together. In our home games especially we are playing really well and tomorrow we'll be at home. Roberto Mancini and Jose Mourinho are different coaches in terms of personality but they are both good tactically."
The 29-year-old says Galatasaray will be full of confidence heading into the clash with the Blues.
The Turk Telekom Arena has been notoriously difficult for visitors, with Gala keeping six consecutive home clean sheets, including a 1-0 victory over fierce rivals Besiktas this weekend.
Mancini's men are also undefeated since their 6-1 loss to Real Madrid in September and Sneijder is hoping for the run to continue at the expense of Chelsea.
"This will be a very important game but also a very nice one to play," he continued. "It's amazing what we have achieved. Now we are here, we want more. It will be difficult.
"We feel confident as we had a good result at the weekend. We have to go for it and have to believe in it. Playing these games is good for the players at this level."
Guarin wants 'contract for life' with Inter
Inter midfielder Fredy Guarin has revealed that he expects to sign a new long-term deal at San Siro in the near future.
The Colombia international was the subject of a bid from Juventus in January, and initially looked set to join the Serie A champions in a swap deal that would have seen Mirko Vucinic head to Milan.
Inter fans reacted furiously to the prospective deal, leading new club owner Erick Thohir to controversially pull the plug - sparking an angry response from Turin.
However, Guarin has put that tumultuous episode behind him and has hinted that he would be happy to remain with Inter "for life" if offered the chance to do so by Indonesian businessman Thohir.
"The president knows about the player I am," Guarin told Sky Sport Italia. "We have talked about a contract renewal and we will do it soon.
"If Thohir offered me a contract for life with Inter right now, would I think about it? No, I wouldn't need to think for a moment.
"After what happened, I have had to work even harder because the fans expected more. Even I thought I should be doing more, the team needs me and I want it to win.
"I want to give everything for Inter and for the fans who have always believed in me.
"What happened in January made me much stronger and taught me a lot as a footballer and as a person. Now I am relaxed and happy and the boss knows what I can give."
Guarin, who also drew reported interest from Chelsea in the last transfer window, has scored three goals and assisted another 12 in 25 appearances this term.
Inter midfielder Fredy Guarin has revealed that he expects to sign a new long-term deal at San Siro in the near future.
The Colombia international was the subject of a bid from Juventus in January, and initially looked set to join the Serie A champions in a swap deal that would have seen Mirko Vucinic head to Milan.
Inter fans reacted furiously to the prospective deal, leading new club owner Erick Thohir to controversially pull the plug - sparking an angry response from Turin.
However, Guarin has put that tumultuous episode behind him and has hinted that he would be happy to remain with Inter "for life" if offered the chance to do so by Indonesian businessman Thohir.
"The president knows about the player I am," Guarin told Sky Sport Italia. "We have talked about a contract renewal and we will do it soon.
"If Thohir offered me a contract for life with Inter right now, would I think about it? No, I wouldn't need to think for a moment.
"After what happened, I have had to work even harder because the fans expected more. Even I thought I should be doing more, the team needs me and I want it to win.
"I want to give everything for Inter and for the fans who have always believed in me.
"What happened in January made me much stronger and taught me a lot as a footballer and as a person. Now I am relaxed and happy and the boss knows what I can give."
Guarin, who also drew reported interest from Chelsea in the last transfer window, has scored three goals and assisted another 12 in 25 appearances this term.
Arteta praises Flamini impact at Arsenal
Arsenal vice-captain Mikel Arteta believes the addition of Mathieu Flamini has had a significant impact on the Gunners' fortunes this season.
The Frenchman returned to the Emirates Stadium for a second spell in August on a free transfer and has since established himself as a regular in Arsene Wenger's starting XI.
Arteta argues that his presence has been crucial in allowing for greater rotation in the middle of the pitch, in order to deal with a "demanding" fixture list.
"I think [Flamini's presence] helps the team because we can rotate players and we can play differently," the Spaniard told the club's official website. "We can play with two [in midfield] and it gives us another option.
"No-one has been able to play every game this season. I think the league is getting more demanding. You need a big squad, you can't afford to have only 11 players."
At 31, Arteta could be considered to be reaching the latter stages of his career. However, the Spaniard insists that he is still in top condition.
"When you get to know your body and you have more experience, you are able to learn and read the game better," he remarked. "It makes it easier for you and this is probably the time when I'm enjoying my football most so I want to carry on. For me, age is only a number. I feel very good.
"There will be a day where you start to drop but, for me personally now, if I can play every three days, I'd rather do that."
Arsenal vice-captain Mikel Arteta believes the addition of Mathieu Flamini has had a significant impact on the Gunners' fortunes this season.
The Frenchman returned to the Emirates Stadium for a second spell in August on a free transfer and has since established himself as a regular in Arsene Wenger's starting XI.
Arteta argues that his presence has been crucial in allowing for greater rotation in the middle of the pitch, in order to deal with a "demanding" fixture list.
"I think [Flamini's presence] helps the team because we can rotate players and we can play differently," the Spaniard told the club's official website. "We can play with two [in midfield] and it gives us another option.
"No-one has been able to play every game this season. I think the league is getting more demanding. You need a big squad, you can't afford to have only 11 players."
At 31, Arteta could be considered to be reaching the latter stages of his career. However, the Spaniard insists that he is still in top condition.
"When you get to know your body and you have more experience, you are able to learn and read the game better," he remarked. "It makes it easier for you and this is probably the time when I'm enjoying my football most so I want to carry on. For me, age is only a number. I feel very good.
"There will be a day where you start to drop but, for me personally now, if I can play every three days, I'd rather do that."
Milito: Treble was more important than Ballon d’Or
Diego Milito says winning the treble with Inter in 2010 was more important than receiving the Ballon d'Or.
The Argentine scored 30 goals for the Nerazzurri on their way to that unprecedented achievement under Jose Mourinho, but Milito missed out on the award to Barcelona's Lionel Messi.
The personal accolade has grown in popularity over the years with the Messi-Cristiano Ronaldo rivalry, but Milito insists the treble was all that mattered.
"In all honesty, I think I should have at least have been in the top 50, but I was only a little disappointed,” the striker told Le Buteur.
“What matters to me are winning titles for the team. If I had to choose between the Ballon d'Or and the victories for Inter, I would not have any doubts.
“The treble was the most beautiful thing in my career. It was a perfect season.”
Milito also urged fans to give the team time after inconsistent form has left them in fifth place, 26 points behind league leaders Juventus.
"We need time, the team is in a period of reconstruction, with many new players and new coaching staff. In addition, we have had a change in ownership," he continued.
“With all these changes, we definitely need some time to work, so that things return to their normal course. With a little time we will be able to achieve our goals."
The 34-year-old has found that most of his success has come in recent years and he believes that this is a testament to the hard work that he has shown over his career.
“In life and in football you always have to be patient. My only concern was to work hard in training, progress and never give up. It took some time to achieve the goals, but I did it," he said.
“My patience and my faith was returned. I think this may be a good example for the younger generation.”
Diego Milito says winning the treble with Inter in 2010 was more important than receiving the Ballon d'Or.
The Argentine scored 30 goals for the Nerazzurri on their way to that unprecedented achievement under Jose Mourinho, but Milito missed out on the award to Barcelona's Lionel Messi.
The personal accolade has grown in popularity over the years with the Messi-Cristiano Ronaldo rivalry, but Milito insists the treble was all that mattered.
"In all honesty, I think I should have at least have been in the top 50, but I was only a little disappointed,” the striker told Le Buteur.
“What matters to me are winning titles for the team. If I had to choose between the Ballon d'Or and the victories for Inter, I would not have any doubts.
“The treble was the most beautiful thing in my career. It was a perfect season.”
Milito also urged fans to give the team time after inconsistent form has left them in fifth place, 26 points behind league leaders Juventus.
"We need time, the team is in a period of reconstruction, with many new players and new coaching staff. In addition, we have had a change in ownership," he continued.
“With all these changes, we definitely need some time to work, so that things return to their normal course. With a little time we will be able to achieve our goals."
The 34-year-old has found that most of his success has come in recent years and he believes that this is a testament to the hard work that he has shown over his career.
“In life and in football you always have to be patient. My only concern was to work hard in training, progress and never give up. It took some time to achieve the goals, but I did it," he said.
“My patience and my faith was returned. I think this may be a good example for the younger generation.”
Podolski refuses to rule out Koln return
Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski has refused to rule out a potential return to former club Koln in the future.
The 28-year-old Germany international left his boyhood club to join the Gunners back 2012 although injury, that saw him miss the best part of the first four months of the 2013-14 season, has restricted him to only 13 appearances this term.
Despite not featuring in the Champions League last-16 defeat to Bayern Munich, Podolski did return to the side to play the full 90 minutes in the 4-1 win over Sunderland on Saturday, and he admits he would consider a return to Koln later down the line.
He told Sky: "You can't exclude everything in football. FC [Koln] will be my club always and forever.
"You never know what's gonna happen in the next years."
Peter Stoger's side are currently top of 2. Bundesliga having been relegated from Germany's top flight in the 2011-12 season following a second-from-bottom finish.
Podolski, who was with Koln for 11 years during his first spell with the club before departing for Bayern Munich in 2006, still has a close affinity with his former side and was in attendance for their 1-1 draw with Greuther Furth on Monday.
Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski has refused to rule out a potential return to former club Koln in the future.
The 28-year-old Germany international left his boyhood club to join the Gunners back 2012 although injury, that saw him miss the best part of the first four months of the 2013-14 season, has restricted him to only 13 appearances this term.
Despite not featuring in the Champions League last-16 defeat to Bayern Munich, Podolski did return to the side to play the full 90 minutes in the 4-1 win over Sunderland on Saturday, and he admits he would consider a return to Koln later down the line.
He told Sky: "You can't exclude everything in football. FC [Koln] will be my club always and forever.
"You never know what's gonna happen in the next years."
Peter Stoger's side are currently top of 2. Bundesliga having been relegated from Germany's top flight in the 2011-12 season following a second-from-bottom finish.
Podolski, who was with Koln for 11 years during his first spell with the club before departing for Bayern Munich in 2006, still has a close affinity with his former side and was in attendance for their 1-1 draw with Greuther Furth on Monday.
Chelsea legend Drogba open to Premier League return
Galatasaray striker Didier Drogba has revealed he is open to the possibility of a return to the Premier League at the age of 36.
Drogba, who left Chelsea in the summer of 2012 having scored the penalty which won the Blues' first Champions League trophy, has been linked with a move back to Stamford Bridge.Several reports suggested the Ivorian could rejoin his former club as a coach, but the striker - whose contract with Galatasaray expires in the summer - believes he can still shine on the pitch.
"I’m here and playing," he told reporters. "My contract ends this summer, then I will decide what's best.
"It’s impossible to stop time but it's possible with your intelligence on the pitch and with your experience to play at a high level even for two or three more years.
"Put me in the Premier League and give me a few months. I feel young. I still feel like a kid running after the ball."
Drogba will lead the line for Galatasaray when they take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Champions League on Wednesday, and admits returning to his former club will be emotional.
"It’s nice to play against your old team, but when you are emotional, like me, it’s going to be difficult," he told reporters. "I have to be professional and respect the shirt I am wearing."The fixture will also be a chance for Drogba to catch up with the man who brought him to Stamford Bridge, with Jose Mourinho having returned to Chelsea from Real Madrid last year.
"I took a risk to go and play for Jose when I left Marseille," he continued. "Three years before that I was in the second division. This guy comes and says: 'You have to come with me. You are a good player, but if you want to be the best like Thierry Henry then you have to come and play for me'.
"I first saw Jose at a Porto-Marseille game six or seven months before that. In the tunnel, he slapped me on the back and said: 'Do you have some brothers who play like you?' I said: 'There’s a lot in Africa who are better than me'."
Galatasaray striker Didier Drogba has revealed he is open to the possibility of a return to the Premier League at the age of 36.
Drogba, who left Chelsea in the summer of 2012 having scored the penalty which won the Blues' first Champions League trophy, has been linked with a move back to Stamford Bridge.Several reports suggested the Ivorian could rejoin his former club as a coach, but the striker - whose contract with Galatasaray expires in the summer - believes he can still shine on the pitch.
"I’m here and playing," he told reporters. "My contract ends this summer, then I will decide what's best.
"It’s impossible to stop time but it's possible with your intelligence on the pitch and with your experience to play at a high level even for two or three more years.
"Put me in the Premier League and give me a few months. I feel young. I still feel like a kid running after the ball."
Drogba will lead the line for Galatasaray when they take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Champions League on Wednesday, and admits returning to his former club will be emotional.
"It’s nice to play against your old team, but when you are emotional, like me, it’s going to be difficult," he told reporters. "I have to be professional and respect the shirt I am wearing."The fixture will also be a chance for Drogba to catch up with the man who brought him to Stamford Bridge, with Jose Mourinho having returned to Chelsea from Real Madrid last year.
"I took a risk to go and play for Jose when I left Marseille," he continued. "Three years before that I was in the second division. This guy comes and says: 'You have to come with me. You are a good player, but if you want to be the best like Thierry Henry then you have to come and play for me'.
"I first saw Jose at a Porto-Marseille game six or seven months before that. In the tunnel, he slapped me on the back and said: 'Do you have some brothers who play like you?' I said: 'There’s a lot in Africa who are better than me'."
Lahm: I could play in midfield for Germany
Bayern Munich star Philipp Lahm believes he could play as a midfielder for Germany in the 2014 World Cup.
The 30-year-old has found himself filling a new role for his club since the arrival of Pep Guardiola last summer after spending his entire career at full-back.
With Sami Khedira, Ilkay Gundogan and Sven Bender all nursing long-term injuries just four months before the tournament, Lahm says he would be happy to play in midfield alongside for his country, whether with Bastian Schweinsteiger or Toni Kroos.
"We have played together as a double six, but every opponent was very deep, so we had to move a lot," he told Bild.
"Everything is an option. We played at Bayern earlier this season, also with Toni Kroos, when Thiago [Alcantara] was still injured. We train together every day, so it's possible."
Schweinsteiger has made his comeback from a lengthy injury over the last couple of weeks and Lahm added: "It is important that Bastian gets back to 100 per cent fitness."
Bayern Munich star Philipp Lahm believes he could play as a midfielder for Germany in the 2014 World Cup.
The 30-year-old has found himself filling a new role for his club since the arrival of Pep Guardiola last summer after spending his entire career at full-back.
With Sami Khedira, Ilkay Gundogan and Sven Bender all nursing long-term injuries just four months before the tournament, Lahm says he would be happy to play in midfield alongside for his country, whether with Bastian Schweinsteiger or Toni Kroos.
"We have played together as a double six, but every opponent was very deep, so we had to move a lot," he told Bild.
"Everything is an option. We played at Bayern earlier this season, also with Toni Kroos, when Thiago [Alcantara] was still injured. We train together every day, so it's possible."
Schweinsteiger has made his comeback from a lengthy injury over the last couple of weeks and Lahm added: "It is important that Bastian gets back to 100 per cent fitness."
Torres: Mourinho doesn't explain when you're dropped
Fernando Torres has revealed Jose Mourinho has never explained his selection decisions to his players since his return to Chelsea.
Torres has often found himself rotated with Samuel Eto'o by Mourinho this season with both proving slightly underwhelming in front of goal, having netted just eight goals each.
And the Spaniard admits he is never given an explanation by his manager when he starts on the bench, but insists he has grown used to the Special One's way of working.
"You just get used to it and try to respect his decisions," Torres told Marca. "Mourinho has shown that everybody will get a chance and we've all been through the same thing.
"He likes to rotate the squad and shake up the team depending on the opposition. There are two months left in the season and we have to stay focused."
Torres also insists he has a very good relationship with Eto'o, despite often finding himself below the Cameroonian in the pecking order this season.
"It's great, he's a genius," the Spaniard added. "He's doing what he's always done, scoring goals.
"Under Mourinho you don't know if you're going to play or not, so you have to be fully fit and ready."
Fernando Torres has revealed Jose Mourinho has never explained his selection decisions to his players since his return to Chelsea.
Torres has often found himself rotated with Samuel Eto'o by Mourinho this season with both proving slightly underwhelming in front of goal, having netted just eight goals each.
And the Spaniard admits he is never given an explanation by his manager when he starts on the bench, but insists he has grown used to the Special One's way of working.
"You just get used to it and try to respect his decisions," Torres told Marca. "Mourinho has shown that everybody will get a chance and we've all been through the same thing.
"He likes to rotate the squad and shake up the team depending on the opposition. There are two months left in the season and we have to stay focused."
Torres also insists he has a very good relationship with Eto'o, despite often finding himself below the Cameroonian in the pecking order this season.
"It's great, he's a genius," the Spaniard added. "He's doing what he's always done, scoring goals.
"Under Mourinho you don't know if you're going to play or not, so you have to be fully fit and ready."
Thohir: I don't need to be in Italy
Inter president Erick Thohir has insisted that he does not need to be in Italy for the club to thrive.
The Indoniesian businessman took over from Massimo Moratti earlier this season but feels he can delegate his new responsbilities to those below him when he not in Italy.
"I am the president, but it is important to have a strong management team, to carry forward the strategy that we have," he told the Corriere dello Sport.
"It is not necessary that every weekend I am at Pinetina. I saw the match against Fiorentina from Jakarta, staying up until dawn, and we won, and every time I come to Milan we drop points!
“I think what matters is the work. It is about what we are all focusing together on for the good of Inter.”
Inter currently sit fifth in Serie A but face a daunting trip to Scudetto-chasing Roma at 20:45CET on Saturday.
Inter president Erick Thohir has insisted that he does not need to be in Italy for the club to thrive.
The Indoniesian businessman took over from Massimo Moratti earlier this season but feels he can delegate his new responsbilities to those below him when he not in Italy.
"I am the president, but it is important to have a strong management team, to carry forward the strategy that we have," he told the Corriere dello Sport.
"It is not necessary that every weekend I am at Pinetina. I saw the match against Fiorentina from Jakarta, staying up until dawn, and we won, and every time I come to Milan we drop points!
“I think what matters is the work. It is about what we are all focusing together on for the good of Inter.”
Inter currently sit fifth in Serie A but face a daunting trip to Scudetto-chasing Roma at 20:45CET on Saturday.
Klopp: Messi my dream signing
Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp has admitted that Barcelona attacker Lionel Messi would be his ideal signing.
The 46-year-old is a keen admirer of the talent of both Franck Ribery and Cristiano Ronaldo, who beat the Argentine to the Ballon d'Or last month.
However, he says that the Rosario native has made the biggest impression on him and would move for him if he had the resources.
"I would sign Messi," he is quoted as saying by Sport.
"I also love how Ribery and Ronaldo play, but what Messi does in the pitch is awesome. And he has improved over the years."
Klopp also spoke about his approach to coaching, saying his door is always open to players who want his advice.
"I’m a genuine team player actually. In the course of a day I do take a relatively large number of decisions, but fortunately I’ve assembled a team around me and I’m no longer forced to take all the decisions myself.
"Lots of expert eyes see more than just the two of mine. I don’t care much for being thought of as a hero. I like to treat my players as co-workers. Provided the team accepts this approach, it can work well.
"However, if any of my players was to start thinking he now had the right to debate line-ups or training drills with me he’d be making a fundamental error.
"What I say goes. But outside of training you can deal with me as you would with anyone else."
Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp has admitted that Barcelona attacker Lionel Messi would be his ideal signing.
The 46-year-old is a keen admirer of the talent of both Franck Ribery and Cristiano Ronaldo, who beat the Argentine to the Ballon d'Or last month.
However, he says that the Rosario native has made the biggest impression on him and would move for him if he had the resources.
"I would sign Messi," he is quoted as saying by Sport.
"I also love how Ribery and Ronaldo play, but what Messi does in the pitch is awesome. And he has improved over the years."
Klopp also spoke about his approach to coaching, saying his door is always open to players who want his advice.
"I’m a genuine team player actually. In the course of a day I do take a relatively large number of decisions, but fortunately I’ve assembled a team around me and I’m no longer forced to take all the decisions myself.
"Lots of expert eyes see more than just the two of mine. I don’t care much for being thought of as a hero. I like to treat my players as co-workers. Provided the team accepts this approach, it can work well.
"However, if any of my players was to start thinking he now had the right to debate line-ups or training drills with me he’d be making a fundamental error.
"What I say goes. But outside of training you can deal with me as you would with anyone else."
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