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Udinese 0-2 Juventus: Giovinco and Llorente edge Bianconeri closer to title glory
Juventus are within touching distance of winning Serie A after goals from Giovinco and Fernando Llorente gave them a 2-0 win over Udinese.
A run of seven straight league victories has brought Roma back into title contention and, with Udinese unbeaten at the Stadio Communale Friuli since January, the scene was set for a potential upset on Monday.
However, Antonio Conte's men put in an assured performance and with just five games remaining it appears more a question of when rather than if Juventus will claim a third consecutive league title.Sebastian Giovinco - making just his fourth league start this season - got the ball rolling in the 16th minute and Juve led by two at the break when Fernando Llorente grabbed his 14th top-flight goal of the campaign from close range.
Juventus failed to match their first-half standards after the interval, choosing instead to slow the pace of the game, though Giovinco almost had a second when he saw a shot rebound off the post.
With Carlos Tevez only among the substitutes due to a thigh problem, Giovinco was afforded a rare starting berth and he duly delivered the opener.The forward collected the ball on the right-hand side of the box before skipping past Maurizio Domizzi and curling past Simone Scuffet with his left foot.Giovinco then forced Scuffet into a near-post save and Juve doubled their lead from the resulting corner after 26 minutes.
Andrea Pirlo's delivery was flicked towards the back post by Claudio Marchisio and, after a bout of pin-ball in the area, Llorente provided the simple tap-in from six yards.
Udinese enjoyed a spell of possession at the end of the half but Juve dealt with the threat well, Giorgio Chiellini making one particularly fine interception from Antonio Di Natale's pass to deny Dusan Basta a run at goal.The second half was played at a slow tempo, as Juventus were happy to sit back and maintain possession.
Giovinco was still proving a lively threat, though, and a quick turn of pace from the 27-year-old in the 66th minute led to him breaking into the box but his cross narrowly evaded the head of Llorente.The Italy international was again in the thick of the action for Juve's next chance, showing good feet in the box before shooting against the post.
Substitute Luis Muriel also struck the woodwork at the other end but Juve recorded their 18th clean sheet in the league this season, meaning they could seal the title before travelling to Roma on May 9.
Juventus are within touching distance of winning Serie A after goals from Giovinco and Fernando Llorente gave them a 2-0 win over Udinese.
A run of seven straight league victories has brought Roma back into title contention and, with Udinese unbeaten at the Stadio Communale Friuli since January, the scene was set for a potential upset on Monday.
However, Antonio Conte's men put in an assured performance and with just five games remaining it appears more a question of when rather than if Juventus will claim a third consecutive league title.Sebastian Giovinco - making just his fourth league start this season - got the ball rolling in the 16th minute and Juve led by two at the break when Fernando Llorente grabbed his 14th top-flight goal of the campaign from close range.
Juventus failed to match their first-half standards after the interval, choosing instead to slow the pace of the game, though Giovinco almost had a second when he saw a shot rebound off the post.
With Carlos Tevez only among the substitutes due to a thigh problem, Giovinco was afforded a rare starting berth and he duly delivered the opener.The forward collected the ball on the right-hand side of the box before skipping past Maurizio Domizzi and curling past Simone Scuffet with his left foot.Giovinco then forced Scuffet into a near-post save and Juve doubled their lead from the resulting corner after 26 minutes.
Andrea Pirlo's delivery was flicked towards the back post by Claudio Marchisio and, after a bout of pin-ball in the area, Llorente provided the simple tap-in from six yards.
Udinese enjoyed a spell of possession at the end of the half but Juve dealt with the threat well, Giorgio Chiellini making one particularly fine interception from Antonio Di Natale's pass to deny Dusan Basta a run at goal.The second half was played at a slow tempo, as Juventus were happy to sit back and maintain possession.
Giovinco was still proving a lively threat, though, and a quick turn of pace from the 27-year-old in the 66th minute led to him breaking into the box but his cross narrowly evaded the head of Llorente.The Italy international was again in the thick of the action for Juve's next chance, showing good feet in the box before shooting against the post.
Substitute Luis Muriel also struck the woodwork at the other end but Juve recorded their 18th clean sheet in the league this season, meaning they could seal the title before travelling to Roma on May 9.
Mkhitaryan over Madrid nightmare - Klopp
Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp is confident Henrikh Mkhitaryan is over his crisis of confidence ahead of Wednesday's DFB Pokal semi-final against Wolfsburg.The midfielder suffered a dreadful night in front of goal as BVB were knocked out of the Champions League by Real Madrid last week.
However, after several days of soul searching the former Shakhtar Donetsk star opened the scoring in the 3-0 win over Bayern Munich on Saturday, with Klopp satisfied he is back to his normal self. He said: “He felt like it was all his fault, which of course is nonsense and that's what we told him.
"You have to take risks otherwise you don't do enough [on the pitch]. If you make mistakes you have to learn how to deal with them."That's something [Mkhitaryan is] able to do, of course, but this particular mistake was of great importance for him to deal with.
"He took it very seriously, which is something we all do. His reaction in Munich obviously was fantastic."The DFB Pokal is the club's last chance of silverware this season and Klopp spoke of the need for diligence as his players go in search of a glorious end to a disappointing campaign.
"Self-confidence is good, but self-confidence alone won't be enough against Wolfsburg," he said.“That's why I'm so glad about the will to do their best my team has shown recently. That will be the most important thing against Wolfsburg: to work hard
.
“Wolfsburg will give their best because they've been waiting for a trophy since 2009. and they're having a great season. Two very self-confident teams will clash on Tuesday.”
Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp is confident Henrikh Mkhitaryan is over his crisis of confidence ahead of Wednesday's DFB Pokal semi-final against Wolfsburg.The midfielder suffered a dreadful night in front of goal as BVB were knocked out of the Champions League by Real Madrid last week.
However, after several days of soul searching the former Shakhtar Donetsk star opened the scoring in the 3-0 win over Bayern Munich on Saturday, with Klopp satisfied he is back to his normal self. He said: “He felt like it was all his fault, which of course is nonsense and that's what we told him.
"You have to take risks otherwise you don't do enough [on the pitch]. If you make mistakes you have to learn how to deal with them."That's something [Mkhitaryan is] able to do, of course, but this particular mistake was of great importance for him to deal with.
"He took it very seriously, which is something we all do. His reaction in Munich obviously was fantastic."The DFB Pokal is the club's last chance of silverware this season and Klopp spoke of the need for diligence as his players go in search of a glorious end to a disappointing campaign.
"Self-confidence is good, but self-confidence alone won't be enough against Wolfsburg," he said.“That's why I'm so glad about the will to do their best my team has shown recently. That will be the most important thing against Wolfsburg: to work hard
.
“Wolfsburg will give their best because they've been waiting for a trophy since 2009. and they're having a great season. Two very self-confident teams will clash on Tuesday.”
Gerrard: Liverpool need spirit of Istanbul against Norwich City
Steven Gerrard insists Liverpool will need the same attitude which helped them overcome AC Milan in the 2005 Champions League final to continue their winning streak against Norwich City.
Brendan Rodgers' men travel to Carrow Road on Sunday knowing that an 11th consecutive Premier League victory will bring them a step closer to a first league title in 24 years.
Liverpool are strong favourites, but Gerrard is adamant his team-mates must be prepared to dig as deep as on that miraculous night in Istanbul nine years ago, when they recovered from three goals down against a Kaka-inspired Rossoneri to win Europe's elite club competition on penalties.
"Every game is getting bigger because we are getting closer to the last game of the season," he told reporters.
"Manchester City was always going to be huge because they are in the race with us but Norwich now become Manchester City. Norwich become Chelsea. Norwich become Manchester United. That's how big it is.
"We have got to treat Norwich like we treated AC Milan in 2005. That's just how football is. We can't think about what colour shirts Norwich are wearing and the personnel in them.
"We have got to treat them like the best team in the world."
Liverpool's winning streak - which includes triumphs over both Manchester clubs - has earned them praise from all quarters, but Gerrard warns they have won nothing yet.
"It is a remarkable run but you get nothing for it," he added. "You get a pat on the back. We've all had them but they come and go. What is key as a footballer is getting something to show for all the hard work.
"We have been on a magnificent run. We could win 13 on the spin but lose the last one and we will get nothing. Nobody will remember it. The only way people will remember it is if we go on and win it.
"We have got to forget where we are and forget what we have done. We have just got to focus and prepare for Norwich now. We have got to treat it like it is the last game of all our careers. That is the mentality."
Steven Gerrard insists Liverpool will need the same attitude which helped them overcome AC Milan in the 2005 Champions League final to continue their winning streak against Norwich City.
Brendan Rodgers' men travel to Carrow Road on Sunday knowing that an 11th consecutive Premier League victory will bring them a step closer to a first league title in 24 years.
Liverpool are strong favourites, but Gerrard is adamant his team-mates must be prepared to dig as deep as on that miraculous night in Istanbul nine years ago, when they recovered from three goals down against a Kaka-inspired Rossoneri to win Europe's elite club competition on penalties.
"Every game is getting bigger because we are getting closer to the last game of the season," he told reporters.
"Manchester City was always going to be huge because they are in the race with us but Norwich now become Manchester City. Norwich become Chelsea. Norwich become Manchester United. That's how big it is.
"We have got to treat Norwich like we treated AC Milan in 2005. That's just how football is. We can't think about what colour shirts Norwich are wearing and the personnel in them.
"We have got to treat them like the best team in the world."
Liverpool's winning streak - which includes triumphs over both Manchester clubs - has earned them praise from all quarters, but Gerrard warns they have won nothing yet.
"It is a remarkable run but you get nothing for it," he added. "You get a pat on the back. We've all had them but they come and go. What is key as a footballer is getting something to show for all the hard work.
"We have been on a magnificent run. We could win 13 on the spin but lose the last one and we will get nothing. Nobody will remember it. The only way people will remember it is if we go on and win it.
"We have got to forget where we are and forget what we have done. We have just got to focus and prepare for Norwich now. We have got to treat it like it is the last game of all our careers. That is the mentality."
Seedorf calls for Balotelli protection
AC Milan boss Clarence Seedorf has called on referees to start protecting Mario Balotelli against malicious opponents.
The Italy forward's career has been blighted by numerous run-ins with officials and breaches of discipline on and off the field.
But Seedorf is convinced that the former Inter and Manchester City star is a changed man and wants those in charge to put an end to players deliberately targeting his player.
He said: "Balotelli? He has passed every test for me. I also say that he has changed his attitude and referees need to stop all the fouls that he receives."
The 38-year-old was speaking after his side's 1-0 win over Catania on Sunday, which saw the Rossoneri move into the top half of the table.
Balotelli has been a key man under Seedorf since he took over from Massimiliano Allegri in January and has 18 goals to his name so far this season.
AC Milan boss Clarence Seedorf has called on referees to start protecting Mario Balotelli against malicious opponents.
The Italy forward's career has been blighted by numerous run-ins with officials and breaches of discipline on and off the field.
But Seedorf is convinced that the former Inter and Manchester City star is a changed man and wants those in charge to put an end to players deliberately targeting his player.
He said: "Balotelli? He has passed every test for me. I also say that he has changed his attitude and referees need to stop all the fouls that he receives."
The 38-year-old was speaking after his side's 1-0 win over Catania on Sunday, which saw the Rossoneri move into the top half of the table.
Balotelli has been a key man under Seedorf since he took over from Massimiliano Allegri in January and has 18 goals to his name so far this season.
Giovinco relieved to end goal drought
Sebastian Giovinco revealed his relief at ending his seven-month goal drought after Juventus beat Udinese 2-0 on Monday.
The forward struck the opening goal of the game with Fernando Llorente scoring the second to maintain the Bianconeri's eight-point lead over second-placed Roma.
Giovinco's last goal came in the 3-2 win over AC Milan on October 6, with the 27-year-old admitting he was glad to get back to goalscoring ways.
He said: "It's been a while since I last scored. Goals are important for strikers and I'm happy it came on a night like this.
"It's an important victory but not a decisive one. The Scudetto isn't in the bag."
Juve face Roma in their penultimate game of the season but could have the Serie A title sewn up before that clash, with coach Antonio Conte urging his side to continue their league charge.
"We did well, there's no room for error at this stage of the season. Our players always give 110% in every game.
"We need to pull out all the stops on Saturday (Bologna). I'm expecting a packed out Juventus Stadium to urge us on to victory.
"We know Roma won't be giving in behind us and it's important for us to do the same."
Sebastian Giovinco revealed his relief at ending his seven-month goal drought after Juventus beat Udinese 2-0 on Monday.
The forward struck the opening goal of the game with Fernando Llorente scoring the second to maintain the Bianconeri's eight-point lead over second-placed Roma.
Giovinco's last goal came in the 3-2 win over AC Milan on October 6, with the 27-year-old admitting he was glad to get back to goalscoring ways.
He said: "It's been a while since I last scored. Goals are important for strikers and I'm happy it came on a night like this.
"It's an important victory but not a decisive one. The Scudetto isn't in the bag."
Juve face Roma in their penultimate game of the season but could have the Serie A title sewn up before that clash, with coach Antonio Conte urging his side to continue their league charge.
"We did well, there's no room for error at this stage of the season. Our players always give 110% in every game.
"We need to pull out all the stops on Saturday (Bologna). I'm expecting a packed out Juventus Stadium to urge us on to victory.
"We know Roma won't be giving in behind us and it's important for us to do the same."
Lewandowski targets cup glory
Robert Lewandowski believes DFB Pokal glory would be the perfect conclusion to his Borussia Dortmund career.
The Poland international will depart Signal Iduna Park for Bayern Munich in the summer, but opportunities are running out for him to end his stay at the club on a high.
The Bavarians have already been crowned Bundesliga champions, while Dortmund were knocked out of the Champions League quarter-finals by Real Madrid.
However, BVB remain in the hunt for the DFB Pokal and face Wolfsburg in the semi-finals of the competition on Tuesday, with Lewandowski determined to win one last trophy in yellow and black.
He told TZ.de: "The next game is so important. In the cup we can strike again. We are a great team and that should not be forgotten.
"But we're facing a good team and we will have to perform well from the first minute until the last, unlike in the league game."
The 25-year-old was left out of the starting line-up at the weekend as Dortmund stunned Bayern 3-0 in the Bundesliga, but Lewandowski insists he has no qualms over his cameo appearance.
"By the time I came on the game was already under control. It's a shame the title is already lost but it was still an important victory with a view to second place.
"It is an advantage that I didn't play. I can be 100% on Tuesday night."
Robert Lewandowski believes DFB Pokal glory would be the perfect conclusion to his Borussia Dortmund career.
The Poland international will depart Signal Iduna Park for Bayern Munich in the summer, but opportunities are running out for him to end his stay at the club on a high.
The Bavarians have already been crowned Bundesliga champions, while Dortmund were knocked out of the Champions League quarter-finals by Real Madrid.
However, BVB remain in the hunt for the DFB Pokal and face Wolfsburg in the semi-finals of the competition on Tuesday, with Lewandowski determined to win one last trophy in yellow and black.
He told TZ.de: "The next game is so important. In the cup we can strike again. We are a great team and that should not be forgotten.
"But we're facing a good team and we will have to perform well from the first minute until the last, unlike in the league game."
The 25-year-old was left out of the starting line-up at the weekend as Dortmund stunned Bayern 3-0 in the Bundesliga, but Lewandowski insists he has no qualms over his cameo appearance.
"By the time I came on the game was already under control. It's a shame the title is already lost but it was still an important victory with a view to second place.
"It is an advantage that I didn't play. I can be 100% on Tuesday night."
Roma & Italy U21 starlet Viviani set for Premier League talks
Roma-owned starlet Federico Viviani could be in line for a move to England if talks go well between the player's agent and an unknown Premier League club.
The highly-rated midfielder, who is on loan at Serie B outfit Latina, has already worn the captain's armband at Under-21 level for Italy and his representative is keen to provide some clarity on the youngster's future.
With Miralem Pjanic, Kevin Strootman, Daniele De Rossi and Radja Nainggolan among other big names all vying for a place in Roma's midfield, a move abroad could be the smartest option for blossoming Viviani's career.Speaking to Calciomercato.com, agent Giovanni Ferro revealed his plans.“I will be leaving for England shortly,” he said. “But I prefer not to name the club in question. We'll see what happens.
“When I return, I will speak to Roma and update them on the offers I receive and together we will work out the best solution for my client, who still has plenty of room to grow.”
Roma-owned starlet Federico Viviani could be in line for a move to England if talks go well between the player's agent and an unknown Premier League club.
The highly-rated midfielder, who is on loan at Serie B outfit Latina, has already worn the captain's armband at Under-21 level for Italy and his representative is keen to provide some clarity on the youngster's future.
With Miralem Pjanic, Kevin Strootman, Daniele De Rossi and Radja Nainggolan among other big names all vying for a place in Roma's midfield, a move abroad could be the smartest option for blossoming Viviani's career.Speaking to Calciomercato.com, agent Giovanni Ferro revealed his plans.“I will be leaving for England shortly,” he said. “But I prefer not to name the club in question. We'll see what happens.
“When I return, I will speak to Roma and update them on the offers I receive and together we will work out the best solution for my client, who still has plenty of room to grow.”
Strootman vows to return stronger
Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman vowed to return a "stronger and more mature player" once he completes his recovery from a serious knee injury.
The Netherlands international tore his anterior cruciate ligament in a defeat at Napoli last month, ruling him out of the remainder of Roma's season as well as his country's World Cup campaign in Brazil.The former PSV midfielder told the club's television station: "There are worse things in life.
"Now I am concentrating on my recovery and I'm thinking about the players who have returned stronger and more mature after an injury of this type."That will also be the case with me. I feel a bit better and I'm working every day to come back. I'm only thinking about getting back on the pitch."The team is very strong and I can't wait to get back and play in the Champions League.
"The support coming my way is fantastic and gives me strength, I am touched by all the support I have received."It's my first serious injury. It makes you realise how much you stand to lose but there are worse things in life than this."
Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman vowed to return a "stronger and more mature player" once he completes his recovery from a serious knee injury.
The Netherlands international tore his anterior cruciate ligament in a defeat at Napoli last month, ruling him out of the remainder of Roma's season as well as his country's World Cup campaign in Brazil.The former PSV midfielder told the club's television station: "There are worse things in life.
"Now I am concentrating on my recovery and I'm thinking about the players who have returned stronger and more mature after an injury of this type."That will also be the case with me. I feel a bit better and I'm working every day to come back. I'm only thinking about getting back on the pitch."The team is very strong and I can't wait to get back and play in the Champions League.
"The support coming my way is fantastic and gives me strength, I am touched by all the support I have received."It's my first serious injury. It makes you realise how much you stand to lose but there are worse things in life than this."
'Barcelona players would die for Martino' - Puyol
Barcelona defender Carles Puyol has defended coach Gerardo Martino, insisting the players would "die for him".
While Barca can lift the Copa del Rey this week if they beat Real Madrid in the final on Wednesday and they remain in contention for La Liga, they have fallen four points behind leaders Atletico, who knocked them out of the Champions League.
And Puyol feels the whole squad have to take responsibility for the team's failings, as opposed to just the coach.
"We can't control it," he told reporters. "It is easier to criticise the manager than 25 players. But if things go wrong it is everyone's fault.
"I wish him the best. He's a great coach and has another year of his contract. We'd die for him and him for us.
"It is tough being out of the Champions League and the next game is tough, but we have a final against a great rival and I would like to tell the fans that we will give our all and that we must stick together, and everything will be easier.
"We've messed up a few things and we are our own worst critics. Now we will fight to win the final and the last five games. We haven't given up on the league.
"We haven't had consistency, although we were expected to win in Granada. Now we have to look forwards and give our fans something to celebrate."
The veteran defender went on to praise league rivals Atletico, who could win the Spanish top flight this season and remain in the Champions League semi-finals.
"They're having a great season, like last year. They are intense, difficult to beat. They are having a spectacular season, fighting for the title and the Champions League. It's admirable."
Puyol, who will leave the club this summer, has admitted that it will be difficult for the club to find a replacement for him.
"Half of Europe is looking for one and there aren't that many. [Sporting director Andoni] Zubizarreta will find the best solution. Now is not the time to talk about it."
Barcelona defender Carles Puyol has defended coach Gerardo Martino, insisting the players would "die for him".
While Barca can lift the Copa del Rey this week if they beat Real Madrid in the final on Wednesday and they remain in contention for La Liga, they have fallen four points behind leaders Atletico, who knocked them out of the Champions League.
And Puyol feels the whole squad have to take responsibility for the team's failings, as opposed to just the coach.
"We can't control it," he told reporters. "It is easier to criticise the manager than 25 players. But if things go wrong it is everyone's fault.
"I wish him the best. He's a great coach and has another year of his contract. We'd die for him and him for us.
"It is tough being out of the Champions League and the next game is tough, but we have a final against a great rival and I would like to tell the fans that we will give our all and that we must stick together, and everything will be easier.
"We've messed up a few things and we are our own worst critics. Now we will fight to win the final and the last five games. We haven't given up on the league.
"We haven't had consistency, although we were expected to win in Granada. Now we have to look forwards and give our fans something to celebrate."
The veteran defender went on to praise league rivals Atletico, who could win the Spanish top flight this season and remain in the Champions League semi-finals.
"They're having a great season, like last year. They are intense, difficult to beat. They are having a spectacular season, fighting for the title and the Champions League. It's admirable."
Puyol, who will leave the club this summer, has admitted that it will be difficult for the club to find a replacement for him.
"Half of Europe is looking for one and there aren't that many. [Sporting director Andoni] Zubizarreta will find the best solution. Now is not the time to talk about it."
'Arsenal will finish fourth and win the FA Cup' - Wenger
Arsene Wenger feels Arsenal can claim a top four spot ahead of Everton and win the FA Cup as he analysed the final fixtures of the season.
The Gunners sealed a spot in the Wembley final where they will face Steve Bruce's Hull City following a penalty shootout victory over Wigan on Saturday and currently trail the Toffees by two points as the quest for Champions League football intensifies.
Speaking to reporters in his pre-match press conference ahead of the Gunners' Premier League clash with West Ham, Wenger hailed the club's fans for their support at Wembley before targeting a strong end to the campaign.
Wenger said: "Our fans were fantastic on Saturday even when it was bad. We want them to be behind the team... I'm sure they will.
"We can finish well this season. We can finish in the top four, we can win the FA Cup so it's down to how united we'll be until the end of the season and focused together."
Arsenal face Hull at Wembley on May 17 a week after their Premier League season concludes with a trip to relegation-threatened Norwich City.
Arsene Wenger feels Arsenal can claim a top four spot ahead of Everton and win the FA Cup as he analysed the final fixtures of the season.
The Gunners sealed a spot in the Wembley final where they will face Steve Bruce's Hull City following a penalty shootout victory over Wigan on Saturday and currently trail the Toffees by two points as the quest for Champions League football intensifies.
Speaking to reporters in his pre-match press conference ahead of the Gunners' Premier League clash with West Ham, Wenger hailed the club's fans for their support at Wembley before targeting a strong end to the campaign.
Wenger said: "Our fans were fantastic on Saturday even when it was bad. We want them to be behind the team... I'm sure they will.
"We can finish well this season. We can finish in the top four, we can win the FA Cup so it's down to how united we'll be until the end of the season and focused together."
Arsenal face Hull at Wembley on May 17 a week after their Premier League season concludes with a trip to relegation-threatened Norwich City.
Puyol: I will not change my mind about Barcelona exit
Carles Puyol has not changed his mind about opting to leave Barcelona at the end of the season despite the club's transfer ban.
The veteran defender, 36, recently announced he will leave the Camp Nou this summer, but a number of reports suggested he could stay on for an additional season now that Barcelona will not be allowed to sign a replacement following Fifa's decision to hand the Catalans a transfer ban for the next two windows.
Nevertheless, Puyol feels he is no longer at the required level to help Barcelona and has stressed that staying put is not an option.
"I have not changed my mind about leaving at the end of the season," Puyol stated at a press conference.
"I would stay if I could help, but it is difficult to get back to my best. I could not accept another year like this one.
"I cannot say anything else about my future because I have not made a decision yet. We will see how the season ends."
The centre-back then went on to defend Lionel Messi against recent criticism as he feels there is no reason to doubt the Argentina international.
"If there's one player who should not be doubted, it's Messi. He has given us so much and we can never rule him out.
"He always gives his all. Sometimes things work out and sometimes they don't. We have gotten accustomed to his incredibly high level, so when he doesn't score people start questioning him.
"But we are all very grateful to him for what he has done for the team. We are a team and we cannot blame everything on one player."
Carles Puyol has not changed his mind about opting to leave Barcelona at the end of the season despite the club's transfer ban.
The veteran defender, 36, recently announced he will leave the Camp Nou this summer, but a number of reports suggested he could stay on for an additional season now that Barcelona will not be allowed to sign a replacement following Fifa's decision to hand the Catalans a transfer ban for the next two windows.
Nevertheless, Puyol feels he is no longer at the required level to help Barcelona and has stressed that staying put is not an option.
"I have not changed my mind about leaving at the end of the season," Puyol stated at a press conference.
"I would stay if I could help, but it is difficult to get back to my best. I could not accept another year like this one.
"I cannot say anything else about my future because I have not made a decision yet. We will see how the season ends."
The centre-back then went on to defend Lionel Messi against recent criticism as he feels there is no reason to doubt the Argentina international.
"If there's one player who should not be doubted, it's Messi. He has given us so much and we can never rule him out.
"He always gives his all. Sometimes things work out and sometimes they don't. We have gotten accustomed to his incredibly high level, so when he doesn't score people start questioning him.
"But we are all very grateful to him for what he has done for the team. We are a team and we cannot blame everything on one player."
Howard: Everton under no pressure from Arsenal
Tim Howard has insisted Everton feel under no pressure from Arsenal in the race for fourth spot, with the team's end-of-season fate now in their own hands.
Saturday's 1-0 win over Sunderland saw Roberto Martinez's men claim their seventh league win on the bounce as the club leapfrogged Arsenal into fourth spot for the first time since January.
Arsenal can move back up to fourth win a win over West Ham on Tuesday night but Howard is relieved to not have to rely on the Gunners slipping up to claim their first Champions League berth in nine years.
"The manager drilled into us that it would be tough," he told the Liverpool Echo. "Now we can count them on one hand. We're going to tick the games off.
"We're in a good mental state. We're performing well. We feel fluid and there's a good energy in the dressing room. We won't feel pressure on our back from Arsenal.
"Anything can happen. There are so many 'ifs' and 'buts' but if we keep fighting we'll finish strong so hopefully that can continue.
"We wanted it in our own hands. We worked so hard to get to this point that we don't want to throw it away now.
"It couldn’t be better than that. As much as you keep fighting if you’re having to hope that Arsenal lose, that's draining. To be able to just focus on us is helpful."
Everton were made to work for the three points on Saturday, with Wes Brown's own-goal 15 minutes from time separating the Merseyside and the league's bottom club.
But Howard feels the resilience shown by the Toffees at the Stadium of Light is further proof of their determination to finish the season as strongly as possible.
He continued: "You don't mind it being a bit scrappy every now and then because you almost want the confirmation that we've got it in us.
"We know we can play good football but we never want to get away from that Everton fighting spirit, that ability to dig in. Games like this remind us that's still in us which is important.
"Even at 1-0 down they kept coming because they had a lot to fight for and it was a really tough game."
Tim Howard has insisted Everton feel under no pressure from Arsenal in the race for fourth spot, with the team's end-of-season fate now in their own hands.
Saturday's 1-0 win over Sunderland saw Roberto Martinez's men claim their seventh league win on the bounce as the club leapfrogged Arsenal into fourth spot for the first time since January.
Arsenal can move back up to fourth win a win over West Ham on Tuesday night but Howard is relieved to not have to rely on the Gunners slipping up to claim their first Champions League berth in nine years.
"The manager drilled into us that it would be tough," he told the Liverpool Echo. "Now we can count them on one hand. We're going to tick the games off.
"We're in a good mental state. We're performing well. We feel fluid and there's a good energy in the dressing room. We won't feel pressure on our back from Arsenal.
"Anything can happen. There are so many 'ifs' and 'buts' but if we keep fighting we'll finish strong so hopefully that can continue.
"We wanted it in our own hands. We worked so hard to get to this point that we don't want to throw it away now.
"It couldn’t be better than that. As much as you keep fighting if you’re having to hope that Arsenal lose, that's draining. To be able to just focus on us is helpful."
Everton were made to work for the three points on Saturday, with Wes Brown's own-goal 15 minutes from time separating the Merseyside and the league's bottom club.
But Howard feels the resilience shown by the Toffees at the Stadium of Light is further proof of their determination to finish the season as strongly as possible.
He continued: "You don't mind it being a bit scrappy every now and then because you almost want the confirmation that we've got it in us.
"We know we can play good football but we never want to get away from that Everton fighting spirit, that ability to dig in. Games like this remind us that's still in us which is important.
"Even at 1-0 down they kept coming because they had a lot to fight for and it was a really tough game."
Podolski 'not happy' with regular Arsenal substitutions
Lukas Podolski has admitted he is "not happy" with regularly being substituted when playing for Arsenal.
The striker has completed a full 90 minutes just twice this season and was withdrawn after 68 minutes of his side's FA Cup win over Wigan, with the Gunners trailing 1-0 at the time and youngster Yaya Sanogo staying on.
Podolski has acknowledged that competition for places is always rife at big clubs such as Arsenal, but repeatedly underlined his unhappiness with his current role at the Emirates Stadium.
When asked if his withdrawals frustrate him, Podolski told reporters: "Of course. I play and, in the last games, I always come out and of course you cannot be happy when you always go out after 60, 70 minutes.
"Of course I am not happy always to be substituted.
"It's the decision of the boss. It's not always easy when you play for a big club but of course I am not happy to always come out and watch from outside. You cannot be happy with this situation."
Podolski watched from the sidelines as Arsenal came from behind to beat Wigan on penalties and reach the FA Cup final, with attentions now focused on the fight for fourth spot with West Ham to come on Tuesday.
Lukas Podolski has admitted he is "not happy" with regularly being substituted when playing for Arsenal.
The striker has completed a full 90 minutes just twice this season and was withdrawn after 68 minutes of his side's FA Cup win over Wigan, with the Gunners trailing 1-0 at the time and youngster Yaya Sanogo staying on.
Podolski has acknowledged that competition for places is always rife at big clubs such as Arsenal, but repeatedly underlined his unhappiness with his current role at the Emirates Stadium.
When asked if his withdrawals frustrate him, Podolski told reporters: "Of course. I play and, in the last games, I always come out and of course you cannot be happy when you always go out after 60, 70 minutes.
"Of course I am not happy always to be substituted.
"It's the decision of the boss. It's not always easy when you play for a big club but of course I am not happy to always come out and watch from outside. You cannot be happy with this situation."
Podolski watched from the sidelines as Arsenal came from behind to beat Wigan on penalties and reach the FA Cup final, with attentions now focused on the fight for fourth spot with West Ham to come on Tuesday.
Don't bother trying to buy Mandzukic, says Sammer
Bayern Munich sporting director Matthias Sammer has insisted that the Bundesliga champions have no intention of selling Mario Mandzukic this summer.
The Croatia international's future at Bayern is in doubt following the imminent arrival of Robert Lewandowski from Borussia Dortmund and clubs including Juventus, Arsenal and Chelsea are rumoured to be keeping close tabs on the 27-year-old.
Nevertheless, Sammer has made it clear that Mandzukic will not be allowed to leave at the end of the season.
"Nobody even has to bother making an approach for Mandzukic," Sammer told Sky90.
"He is incredibly important to Bayern. I always affectionately say that he plays like an animal.
"It is simply amazing how much work he does for the team and how much running he does during a game.
"They always try to provoke him because he really hurts his opponents with his work-rate."
Mandzukic has netted 17 goals in 28 Bundesliga appearances this season.
Bayern Munich sporting director Matthias Sammer has insisted that the Bundesliga champions have no intention of selling Mario Mandzukic this summer.
The Croatia international's future at Bayern is in doubt following the imminent arrival of Robert Lewandowski from Borussia Dortmund and clubs including Juventus, Arsenal and Chelsea are rumoured to be keeping close tabs on the 27-year-old.
Nevertheless, Sammer has made it clear that Mandzukic will not be allowed to leave at the end of the season.
"Nobody even has to bother making an approach for Mandzukic," Sammer told Sky90.
"He is incredibly important to Bayern. I always affectionately say that he plays like an animal.
"It is simply amazing how much work he does for the team and how much running he does during a game.
"They always try to provoke him because he really hurts his opponents with his work-rate."
Mandzukic has netted 17 goals in 28 Bundesliga appearances this season.
Arsenal 3-1 West Ham: Giroud & Podolski inspire Gunners comeback
Lukas Podolski struck twice to help Arsenal keep up the pressure on Everton in the race for the top four with a convincing win over West Ham at the Emirates Stadium.
Matt Jarvis silenced the home crowd five minutes before half-time with a brave header from close range, but Podolski brought the Gunners level a minute before the break with a powerful low strike.
Giroud put Arsenal into the lead on 55 minutes when he expertly brought down a Thomas Vermaelen pass and fired through the legs of Adrian, and on 78 minutes Podolski lashed high into the net to seal a vital win.
The result sees Arsene Wenger's men climb above Everton in the table by a point, though Roberto Martinez's side have a game in hand.
The visitors, who remain seven points clear of the relegation zone, began the game with an urgency and pace as they pegged their hosts back in the opening 20 minutes.
Mohamed Diame had two chances to opening the scoring but saw his first effort blocked, and he skied a second over the crossbar from Andy Carroll's neat cut-back.
Arsenal finally burst into life 30 minutes in as Cazorla threaded a pass through to Giroud in the penalty area, but France international's half-hearted flick was easily saved by Adrian.He was made to rue that finish as West Ham took the lead five minutes before the break.
Antonio Nocerino raced away from Kim Kallstrom, making his first Arsenal start, with Jarvis following in with a brave header after Wojciech Szczesny saved the Italian's shot.
West Ham's goal was the catalyst to set Arsenal into life and they were on level terms just four minutes later as Cazorla latched onto a poor clearance from Stewart Downing and found Podolski, who slotted home.Ten minutes into the second half Giroud made up for his earlier miss to move Arsenal in front for the first time in the game.
Thomas Vermaelen delivered a lofted pass into the penalty area that the 27-year-old controlled superbly before firing first-time under Adrian.Podolski and Cazorla both went close to extending the hosts' lead just after the hour, but Adrian saved well from the German and Cazorla's 20-yard strike was just wide of goal.
The points were sealed in the 78th minute as Podolski doubled his tally, the forward lashing his sixth league goal of the season high into the roof of the net after substitute Aaron Ramsey's headed pass.
Lukas Podolski struck twice to help Arsenal keep up the pressure on Everton in the race for the top four with a convincing win over West Ham at the Emirates Stadium.
Matt Jarvis silenced the home crowd five minutes before half-time with a brave header from close range, but Podolski brought the Gunners level a minute before the break with a powerful low strike.
Giroud put Arsenal into the lead on 55 minutes when he expertly brought down a Thomas Vermaelen pass and fired through the legs of Adrian, and on 78 minutes Podolski lashed high into the net to seal a vital win.
The result sees Arsene Wenger's men climb above Everton in the table by a point, though Roberto Martinez's side have a game in hand.
The visitors, who remain seven points clear of the relegation zone, began the game with an urgency and pace as they pegged their hosts back in the opening 20 minutes.
Mohamed Diame had two chances to opening the scoring but saw his first effort blocked, and he skied a second over the crossbar from Andy Carroll's neat cut-back.
Arsenal finally burst into life 30 minutes in as Cazorla threaded a pass through to Giroud in the penalty area, but France international's half-hearted flick was easily saved by Adrian.He was made to rue that finish as West Ham took the lead five minutes before the break.
Antonio Nocerino raced away from Kim Kallstrom, making his first Arsenal start, with Jarvis following in with a brave header after Wojciech Szczesny saved the Italian's shot.
West Ham's goal was the catalyst to set Arsenal into life and they were on level terms just four minutes later as Cazorla latched onto a poor clearance from Stewart Downing and found Podolski, who slotted home.Ten minutes into the second half Giroud made up for his earlier miss to move Arsenal in front for the first time in the game.
Thomas Vermaelen delivered a lofted pass into the penalty area that the 27-year-old controlled superbly before firing first-time under Adrian.Podolski and Cazorla both went close to extending the hosts' lead just after the hour, but Adrian saved well from the German and Cazorla's 20-yard strike was just wide of goal.
The points were sealed in the 78th minute as Podolski doubled his tally, the forward lashing his sixth league goal of the season high into the roof of the net after substitute Aaron Ramsey's headed pass.
Borussia Dortmund 2-0 Wolfsburg: Lewandowski joins 100-club and fires BVB into DFB Pokal final
Robert Lewandowski scored his 100th goal for Borussia Dortmundand fired his side into the DFB Pokal final with a 2-0 win over Wolfsburg on Tuesday.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan opened the scoring for Dortmund, just as he did in the weekend victory over Bayern Munich, as he expertly fired home from the edge of the penalty area after 13 minutes.The visitors had plenty of possession and opportunities, but Lewandowski killed their momentum with his to bring up a century of Dortmund goals on the stroke of half-time.
Despite a flurry of late chances, there was to be no comeback as Dortmund beat Wolfsburg at home for the second time this month to set up a meeting with either Kaiserslautern or Bayern in the final on May 17.Wolfsburg made the stronger start and thought they had taken the lead just two minutes in when former Dortmund man Ivan Perisic headed home before play was brought back for a foul on Roman Weidenfeller.
Dortmund's first sight of goal came soon after with an audacious Marco Reus backheel that was easily collected by Florian Grun. But they did not have to wait too much longer before taking the lead as Mkhitaryan produced a finish of the highest quality.
After Lewandowski played in Reus, the German pulled the ball back for Mkhitaryan to finish left-footed from 20 yards.But for a poor final touch Reus would have found himself through on goal soon after and Wolfsburg's Kevin De Bruyne forced a save from Weidenfeller before the Belgian's teasing set-piece delivery evaded his team-mates in the penalty area.
They went close again when Junior Malanda's header hit the post, with De Bruyne putting the rebound wide, and Lewandowski made them pay with a cool finish after a swift Dortmund break.Reus played in the Pole and, with the visiting defence stretched, he angled a finish into the top left-hand corner to put the hosts in sight of Berlin.
Wolfsburg could have made the ideal start to the second half when Ivica Olic pressured Weidenfeller into a poor punch, only for Maximilian Arnold to divert an effort wide.Lewandowski's header was then ruled out for offside before Malanda skied a gilt-edged chance from close range.
The Belgian was also denied in a frantic late goalmouth scramble as Dortmund became the first team since Eintracht Braunschweig in October to keep a clean sheet against Wolfsburg and maintain their hopes of a fourth Pokal crown.
Robert Lewandowski scored his 100th goal for Borussia Dortmundand fired his side into the DFB Pokal final with a 2-0 win over Wolfsburg on Tuesday.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan opened the scoring for Dortmund, just as he did in the weekend victory over Bayern Munich, as he expertly fired home from the edge of the penalty area after 13 minutes.The visitors had plenty of possession and opportunities, but Lewandowski killed their momentum with his to bring up a century of Dortmund goals on the stroke of half-time.
Despite a flurry of late chances, there was to be no comeback as Dortmund beat Wolfsburg at home for the second time this month to set up a meeting with either Kaiserslautern or Bayern in the final on May 17.Wolfsburg made the stronger start and thought they had taken the lead just two minutes in when former Dortmund man Ivan Perisic headed home before play was brought back for a foul on Roman Weidenfeller.
Dortmund's first sight of goal came soon after with an audacious Marco Reus backheel that was easily collected by Florian Grun. But they did not have to wait too much longer before taking the lead as Mkhitaryan produced a finish of the highest quality.
After Lewandowski played in Reus, the German pulled the ball back for Mkhitaryan to finish left-footed from 20 yards.But for a poor final touch Reus would have found himself through on goal soon after and Wolfsburg's Kevin De Bruyne forced a save from Weidenfeller before the Belgian's teasing set-piece delivery evaded his team-mates in the penalty area.
They went close again when Junior Malanda's header hit the post, with De Bruyne putting the rebound wide, and Lewandowski made them pay with a cool finish after a swift Dortmund break.Reus played in the Pole and, with the visiting defence stretched, he angled a finish into the top left-hand corner to put the hosts in sight of Berlin.
Wolfsburg could have made the ideal start to the second half when Ivica Olic pressured Weidenfeller into a poor punch, only for Maximilian Arnold to divert an effort wide.Lewandowski's header was then ruled out for offside before Malanda skied a gilt-edged chance from close range.
The Belgian was also denied in a frantic late goalmouth scramble as Dortmund became the first team since Eintracht Braunschweig in October to keep a clean sheet against Wolfsburg and maintain their hopes of a fourth Pokal crown.
Atletico Mineiro pull out of Anelka deal
Nicolas Anelka will not be joining Atletico Mineiro after the Brasileiro club pulled out of a move for the striker.
The 35-year-old was sacked by West Brom in March for gross misconduct following the controversy surrounding his 'quenelle' celebration after he scored against West Ham in December.
The former France international has since been on the look out for a new club and seemed set to move to Brazil following talks between the club and his agent.
However, despite his representatives signing a pre-contract with Mineiro on April 4, Anelka's decision to delay meeting the Belo Horizonte side for further talks has come at a cost.
Galo director of football Eduardo Maluf explained: "They told us he was to come the following week and stay in Belo Horizonte, visiting our training grounds and looking for houses.
"We said that yesterday was the deadline for an agreement or explanation, as we would like to have him on board for our Libertadores bid. Today, however, we received an email from Mr Casini, saying that Anelka, a muslim, was in Kuwait for an event and would only come on the 19th.
"He had the obligation of informing us about this, but we only heard about it know. I talked to our president [Alexandre Kalil, the same man who announced the deal on Twitter], and we agreed that Atletico's greatness is much bigger than a single player and, therefore we are cancelling our commitment."
Nicolas Anelka will not be joining Atletico Mineiro after the Brasileiro club pulled out of a move for the striker.
The 35-year-old was sacked by West Brom in March for gross misconduct following the controversy surrounding his 'quenelle' celebration after he scored against West Ham in December.
The former France international has since been on the look out for a new club and seemed set to move to Brazil following talks between the club and his agent.
However, despite his representatives signing a pre-contract with Mineiro on April 4, Anelka's decision to delay meeting the Belo Horizonte side for further talks has come at a cost.
Galo director of football Eduardo Maluf explained: "They told us he was to come the following week and stay in Belo Horizonte, visiting our training grounds and looking for houses.
"We said that yesterday was the deadline for an agreement or explanation, as we would like to have him on board for our Libertadores bid. Today, however, we received an email from Mr Casini, saying that Anelka, a muslim, was in Kuwait for an event and would only come on the 19th.
"He had the obligation of informing us about this, but we only heard about it know. I talked to our president [Alexandre Kalil, the same man who announced the deal on Twitter], and we agreed that Atletico's greatness is much bigger than a single player and, therefore we are cancelling our commitment."
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