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Napoli will be even stronger next year, says Benitez
Napoli coach Rafa Benitez believes that his side will be a force to be reckoned with next season.
The San Paolo outfit finished the season with a 5-1 win over Hellas Verona at home and have already triumphed in the Coppa Italia and the race for a Champions League place.
Benitez is eagerly awaiting the 2014-15 campaign and is backing his troops to make an even bigger impact in his second season in charge.
"It was a positive year and we can be even stronger next year," he told reporters.
"I like scoring a lot because it shows that you have a proactive mentality and we have the third best defence in the division, despite a lot of criticism.
"That means that we have found our balance over time and we play a quality game. You must add to that we've qualified for Europe for a fifth straight year and this is a very important milestone.
"We have worked a lot and we had a better transfer market than anyone else in Serie A. We lowered the average age of the team by two years and we have many important players for the future in the team.
"I work for the team but also for the club to create a structure for the long term. I live season by season but I may well stay here for 10 years."
Napoli coach Rafa Benitez believes that his side will be a force to be reckoned with next season.
The San Paolo outfit finished the season with a 5-1 win over Hellas Verona at home and have already triumphed in the Coppa Italia and the race for a Champions League place.
Benitez is eagerly awaiting the 2014-15 campaign and is backing his troops to make an even bigger impact in his second season in charge.
"It was a positive year and we can be even stronger next year," he told reporters.
"I like scoring a lot because it shows that you have a proactive mentality and we have the third best defence in the division, despite a lot of criticism.
"That means that we have found our balance over time and we play a quality game. You must add to that we've qualified for Europe for a fifth straight year and this is a very important milestone.
"We have worked a lot and we had a better transfer market than anyone else in Serie A. We lowered the average age of the team by two years and we have many important players for the future in the team.
"I work for the team but also for the club to create a structure for the long term. I live season by season but I may well stay here for 10 years."
Mazzarri: I'll give my all for Inter next season
Inter coach Walter Mazzarri is already looking forward to next season and has pledged to give his all for the club.
The San Siro outfit finished fifth in Serie A this term and qualified for the Europa League after missing out on continental football last year.
The former Napoli coach believes his side have made progress this term and is looking to further improve their fortunes next year, despite ending the campaign with a 2-1 loss to Chievo.
"It was a peculiar year. The end of a cycle, as president Erick Thohir said, and also the product of what happened last year. We’ll start strong," he told the club's official website.
"A coach always has to give his all for the club he’s working for. We’ll move forward. We had already reached our objectives before this game today, so I gave playing time to those who had waited on the bench.
"I’ve never been a coach who sought out contracts. I worked. And then when the time comes to start a new season you have to do it beyond what the contract might involve.
"I already have a contract. Last year at Napoli mine was set to expire and I had the best season of my career. I wouldn’t change anything if not extend it, because I already have one.
"Next season I’ll give my all for these colours, beyond any extension.
"Everything has to be clear in a club in order to be able to start strongly. Every coach that wants to transmit his philosophy has to be enthusiastic about it. A contract is the last thing on my mind, and beyond that I’m only interested in talking with the club now.
"We’ll have several meetings and talk, and then we’ll all be relaxed and happy to start the new season.
"Do we need more players for next season? I’ll discuss that with the club. There’s no sense in doing it now. I always try to take stock of things with my staff, and that also goes for games that don’t have any bearing on the standings.
"There are always many things you can observe. It was a peculiar season with a lot of things to manage and many peculiar situations. You can’t gather too much information from a game like this."
Inter coach Walter Mazzarri is already looking forward to next season and has pledged to give his all for the club.
The San Siro outfit finished fifth in Serie A this term and qualified for the Europa League after missing out on continental football last year.
The former Napoli coach believes his side have made progress this term and is looking to further improve their fortunes next year, despite ending the campaign with a 2-1 loss to Chievo.
"It was a peculiar year. The end of a cycle, as president Erick Thohir said, and also the product of what happened last year. We’ll start strong," he told the club's official website.
"A coach always has to give his all for the club he’s working for. We’ll move forward. We had already reached our objectives before this game today, so I gave playing time to those who had waited on the bench.
"I’ve never been a coach who sought out contracts. I worked. And then when the time comes to start a new season you have to do it beyond what the contract might involve.
"I already have a contract. Last year at Napoli mine was set to expire and I had the best season of my career. I wouldn’t change anything if not extend it, because I already have one.
"Next season I’ll give my all for these colours, beyond any extension.
"Everything has to be clear in a club in order to be able to start strongly. Every coach that wants to transmit his philosophy has to be enthusiastic about it. A contract is the last thing on my mind, and beyond that I’m only interested in talking with the club now.
"We’ll have several meetings and talk, and then we’ll all be relaxed and happy to start the new season.
"Do we need more players for next season? I’ll discuss that with the club. There’s no sense in doing it now. I always try to take stock of things with my staff, and that also goes for games that don’t have any bearing on the standings.
"There are always many things you can observe. It was a peculiar season with a lot of things to manage and many peculiar situations. You can’t gather too much information from a game like this."
Seedorf: My future will be decided by end of May
AC Milan coach Clarence Seedorf has announced that he expects a decision on his future to be made in the next fortnight.
The Dutchman took over from Massimiliano Allegri in January and oversaw an upturn in the side's fortunes, including an unexpected bid for a Europa League place.
Their 2-1 victory over Sassuolo in the final game of the season was not enough for them to secure a top-six finish and speculation over the 38-year-old's future.
"I have no intention of talking to the club via the media. I've said that for months and today nothing changes in that regard," he told reporters.
"We'll know more over the next few days. Before the end of the month, we'll discuss things and work out the strategy.
"It was a new experience being on the other side of the locker room, but we formed a cohesive group and that was very positive."
Milan ended their domestic league campaign in eighth place.
AC Milan coach Clarence Seedorf has announced that he expects a decision on his future to be made in the next fortnight.
The Dutchman took over from Massimiliano Allegri in January and oversaw an upturn in the side's fortunes, including an unexpected bid for a Europa League place.
Their 2-1 victory over Sassuolo in the final game of the season was not enough for them to secure a top-six finish and speculation over the 38-year-old's future.
"I have no intention of talking to the club via the media. I've said that for months and today nothing changes in that regard," he told reporters.
"We'll know more over the next few days. Before the end of the month, we'll discuss things and work out the strategy.
"It was a new experience being on the other side of the locker room, but we formed a cohesive group and that was very positive."
Milan ended their domestic league campaign in eighth place.
Mangala: I would prefer Chelsea move over Manchester City
Porto defender Eliaquim Mangala says that he would prefer to move to Chelsea rather than Premier League champions Manchester City as the race heats up for the 23-year-old's signature.
The France international has impressed hugely in Portugal, leading to links with a host of top clubs and he even came close to moving to the Etihad Stadium in January - though, as revealed by Goal, the clubs could not agree a fee.
But, should City follow up their winter interest in Mangala this summer, the centre-back says that he would prefer a move to Chelsea and warned that any transfer would have to wait until after the World Cup.
When asked which club he would rather join, he told BeIn Sports: "City or Chelsea? Chelsea because it is London.
"It is true that I love the Premier League because it is a spectacular championship," Mangala added.
"In January, there were discussions with City but it fell through because the two clubs could not reach an agreement.
"My goal now is the World Cup. We will see what happens after that. I told [agent] Jorge Mendes that I don't want to know anything about the transfer window until then.
"Every player wants to play in the biggest clubs. I am an ambitious player and the team that can help me win titles is the one that interests me."
Porto defender Eliaquim Mangala says that he would prefer to move to Chelsea rather than Premier League champions Manchester City as the race heats up for the 23-year-old's signature.
The France international has impressed hugely in Portugal, leading to links with a host of top clubs and he even came close to moving to the Etihad Stadium in January - though, as revealed by Goal, the clubs could not agree a fee.
But, should City follow up their winter interest in Mangala this summer, the centre-back says that he would prefer a move to Chelsea and warned that any transfer would have to wait until after the World Cup.
When asked which club he would rather join, he told BeIn Sports: "City or Chelsea? Chelsea because it is London.
"It is true that I love the Premier League because it is a spectacular championship," Mangala added.
"In January, there were discussions with City but it fell through because the two clubs could not reach an agreement.
"My goal now is the World Cup. We will see what happens after that. I told [agent] Jorge Mendes that I don't want to know anything about the transfer window until then.
"Every player wants to play in the biggest clubs. I am an ambitious player and the team that can help me win titles is the one that interests me."
Juventus want Barcelona's Alexis Sanchez - Marotta
Juventus CEO Beppe Marotta has admitted that the Serie A side would love to sign Barcelona attacker Alexis Sanchez.The Chilean forward meets a very specific criteria that the Bianconeri are looking for as they aim to strengthen their squad to become a major force in Europe.“We're looking for a versatile player who can operate in several positions,” Marotta told Sky Sport.
“We are looking for a quick wide attacker. We would like to have a player like Sanchez but there aren't many players like him at the moment.“And we shouldn't forget that Barcelona made a big investment to get him. But I repeat, he's a player we would like to have.”
On the subject of transfers, it is unknown whether Antonio Conte will remain with the Serie A champions, but Marotta could only speak highly of the Italian trainer.
“I have always said that the relationship with Conte is a wonderful one. We consider him a great coach and hope to continue with him.
“However, there are issues that need to be addressed before any announcements are made in the coming weeks.”
Juventus CEO Beppe Marotta has admitted that the Serie A side would love to sign Barcelona attacker Alexis Sanchez.The Chilean forward meets a very specific criteria that the Bianconeri are looking for as they aim to strengthen their squad to become a major force in Europe.“We're looking for a versatile player who can operate in several positions,” Marotta told Sky Sport.
“We are looking for a quick wide attacker. We would like to have a player like Sanchez but there aren't many players like him at the moment.“And we shouldn't forget that Barcelona made a big investment to get him. But I repeat, he's a player we would like to have.”
On the subject of transfers, it is unknown whether Antonio Conte will remain with the Serie A champions, but Marotta could only speak highly of the Italian trainer.
“I have always said that the relationship with Conte is a wonderful one. We consider him a great coach and hope to continue with him.
“However, there are issues that need to be addressed before any announcements are made in the coming weeks.”
Barrier collapse injures 68 at Osasuna
A total of 68 supporters were injured during the Primera Division match between Osasuna and Betis on Sunday when a barrier behind one of the goals collapsed.
Osasuna - needing a win to have any chance of retaining their La Liga status - went ahead in the 12th minute of their game in Pamplona through Oriol Riera, but trouble followed in the ensuing goal celebrations.A section of a protective barrier keeping fans in the stand collapsed and numerous supporters spilled over the edge and on to the area of the pitch behind the goal and advertising hoardings.
Security officials, medical staff and players of both teams quickly attended the scene to tend to any injured fans and several supporters were stretchered away for treatment.A number of fans sustained injuries - the worst of which was a broken leg - and Osasuna president Miguel Achanco was relieved that nothing more severe happened.
"The security hasn't failed. I won't say there weren't too many people, but we put security guards there and we ask for the tickets," he is quoted as saying by AS.
"I saw there lots of fans in there, but if you send the security guards in there's an even bigger fuss. The responsibility is of each person, there is a risk. "Today there was nothing worse than a broken femur, but it could have been a lot worse."
The rest of the barrier was momentarily removed after the incident and play eventually continued after a break of more than half an hour.
Wilshere: FA Cup win is for the Arsenal fans
Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere dedicated the club's FA Cup victory to their fans during Sunday's open-top bus parade through the streets of Islington.
Aaron Ramsey scored an extra-time winner at Wembley on Saturday to defeat Hull City 3-2, with the Gunners having gone two down inside the first eight minutes, sealing the north Londoners' first trophy in nine years.
Wilshere feels that triumph is just reward for the supporters who have stuck by the team through their infamous barren run.
"It's hard to put into words [what this victory means to me]," he told Sky Sports News. "It's been nine years now - we've waited a long time for this.
"We've worked hard and the manager has worked hard but, most of all, this is for the fans who fill the stadium every week. This one is for them.
"It was a bad start [in the final]. We've done that a few times this season and been punished but we knew, if we got a goal before half-time, we could go on and win it.
"We're a fit team and we've got quality as well. That's a good mixture and we showed that. We had a hard run [to reach the final] as well so you can't say that we didn't deserve it. We showed the character that we've shown all season in the final and fair play to the boys.
"Now that we have got the first hurdle out of the way hopefully it will give us a boost for the seasons to come.
"We've shown character for the last couple of years but [Saturday] was a testament to the players. We overcame a big hurdle and we're very proud of that. We're very proud of how far we came in the competition and we did it for all these people."
Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere dedicated the club's FA Cup victory to their fans during Sunday's open-top bus parade through the streets of Islington.
Aaron Ramsey scored an extra-time winner at Wembley on Saturday to defeat Hull City 3-2, with the Gunners having gone two down inside the first eight minutes, sealing the north Londoners' first trophy in nine years.
Wilshere feels that triumph is just reward for the supporters who have stuck by the team through their infamous barren run.
"It's hard to put into words [what this victory means to me]," he told Sky Sports News. "It's been nine years now - we've waited a long time for this.
"We've worked hard and the manager has worked hard but, most of all, this is for the fans who fill the stadium every week. This one is for them.
"It was a bad start [in the final]. We've done that a few times this season and been punished but we knew, if we got a goal before half-time, we could go on and win it.
"We're a fit team and we've got quality as well. That's a good mixture and we showed that. We had a hard run [to reach the final] as well so you can't say that we didn't deserve it. We showed the character that we've shown all season in the final and fair play to the boys.
"Now that we have got the first hurdle out of the way hopefully it will give us a boost for the seasons to come.
"We've shown character for the last couple of years but [Saturday] was a testament to the players. We overcame a big hurdle and we're very proud of that. We're very proud of how far we came in the competition and we did it for all these people."
Galatasaray attacker Didier Drogba has donated €1 million to the families of the victims of the mining disaster in Soma, Turkey.
The Istanbul giants' players wore helmets ahead of their league game against Kayseri Erciyesspor at the weekend to show their support and the Cote d'Ivoire international has gone one step further in his role as U.N. ambassador.
"I am a U.N. ambassador of goodwill and I will do all that I can to help the people in Soma," Drogba told reporters.
"But I don’t want anyone to use my name. I’m not someone who will promote himself in such issues. I don’t need this sort of a self-promotion."
On May 13 an explosion at a coal mine in Soma, Turkey, caused an underground mine fire, which burned until 15 May.
In total, 301 people were killed in what was the worst mine disaster in Turkey's history.
Madrid one step away from making history, says Marcelo
Marcelo is eagerly anticipating next week's Champions League final against Atletico Madrid and believes Real Madrid are set to make history against their city-rivals.
The Santiago Bernabeu side have won nine European titles so far and have been chasing their 10th trophy ever since their latest win in 2002.
Madrid beat Bayern Munich in the semi-finals of the competition and Marcelo is determined to end their season on a high on May 24.
"We are focused on winning an important title, one we have been waiting to win for a long time," Marcelo told reporters.
"We have been trying for a number of years and now at last we are through to the final. We are one step away from making history for Real Madrid and we'll try our best to do it.
"We are going to give it our all on the pitch to win. The decisions about the starting line up belong to the manager and I'll be there to help the team and play my role."
The Brazil international then briefly discussed Cristiano Ronaldo's fitness and hopes the Portugal international will be fit for the final in Lisbon.
"Cristiano Ronaldo wasn't feeling well and ended up not playing against Espanyol.
"I haven't been able to talk to him yet but hopefully it's nothing serious."
Marcelo is eagerly anticipating next week's Champions League final against Atletico Madrid and believes Real Madrid are set to make history against their city-rivals.
The Santiago Bernabeu side have won nine European titles so far and have been chasing their 10th trophy ever since their latest win in 2002.
Madrid beat Bayern Munich in the semi-finals of the competition and Marcelo is determined to end their season on a high on May 24.
"We are focused on winning an important title, one we have been waiting to win for a long time," Marcelo told reporters.
"We have been trying for a number of years and now at last we are through to the final. We are one step away from making history for Real Madrid and we'll try our best to do it.
"We are going to give it our all on the pitch to win. The decisions about the starting line up belong to the manager and I'll be there to help the team and play my role."
The Brazil international then briefly discussed Cristiano Ronaldo's fitness and hopes the Portugal international will be fit for the final in Lisbon.
"Cristiano Ronaldo wasn't feeling well and ended up not playing against Espanyol.
"I haven't been able to talk to him yet but hopefully it's nothing serious."
Mandanda ruled out of World Cup
France coach Didier Deschamps will have to make do without the services of Olympique de Marseille goalkeeper Steve Mandanda at this summer's World Cup due to injury.
The 29-year-old picked up a neck injury in Marseille's 1-0 win over Guingamp on Saturday and was forced to leave the pitch halfway through the first half.
Mandanda underwent further examination on Sunday and Marseille have now announced that the shot stopper will be out of action for an estimated six weeks.
"Mandanda will have to wear a neck brace for the next three weeks and will need an additional three weeks to recover from his injury," Marseille announced.
The OM goalkeeper was one of three keepers in Deschamps' provisional squad for this summer's tournament in Brazil alongside Hugo Lloris and Mickael Landreau.
Mandanda's place in the squad will be taken by Saint-Etienne No.1 Stephane Ruffier.
This Atletico team will be remembered for eternity - Cerezo
Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo says the current team will be "remembered for eternity" after they beat Barcelona to win La Liga for the first time in 18 years.
Diego Simeone's charges looked in danger of surrendering the league title to Barcelona in Saturday's match as the Catalan side took the lead through Alexis Sanchez. However, Diego Godin came to the rescue as he headed home the equaliser in the second half and the visitors were able to hold out for a draw and secure the title.
With the league secured, Simeone's men are now looking to record a remarkable double as they face local rivals Real Madrid in the Champions League final next week.
With such an incredible season coming to an end, Cerezo believes this Atletico side will live on in the memories of football fans forever and dedicated it to all of the club's fans.
"This is a league that they always say the right team wins," he told reporters. "I was very calm when Barcelona scored their first goal but I had my doubts in the last 10 minutes.
"It was a beautiful game with a lot of emotion and a good result. This is a team that will be remembered for eternity."This win could be more important than the one in 1996, it’s been a long time since we won La Liga.
"This is for all of Atletico, for all who have suffered and my grandchildren.
The president then admitted the team would miss Diego Costa dearly if he were to miss next week's meeting with Real Madrid after suffering another hamstring injury.
"It’ll be a shame if he has to miss the Champions League final because he’s an important element of our team, but in these final games, you pay dearly for your efforts."
Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo says the current team will be "remembered for eternity" after they beat Barcelona to win La Liga for the first time in 18 years.
Diego Simeone's charges looked in danger of surrendering the league title to Barcelona in Saturday's match as the Catalan side took the lead through Alexis Sanchez. However, Diego Godin came to the rescue as he headed home the equaliser in the second half and the visitors were able to hold out for a draw and secure the title.
With the league secured, Simeone's men are now looking to record a remarkable double as they face local rivals Real Madrid in the Champions League final next week.
With such an incredible season coming to an end, Cerezo believes this Atletico side will live on in the memories of football fans forever and dedicated it to all of the club's fans.
"This is a league that they always say the right team wins," he told reporters. "I was very calm when Barcelona scored their first goal but I had my doubts in the last 10 minutes.
"It was a beautiful game with a lot of emotion and a good result. This is a team that will be remembered for eternity."This win could be more important than the one in 1996, it’s been a long time since we won La Liga.
"This is for all of Atletico, for all who have suffered and my grandchildren.
The president then admitted the team would miss Diego Costa dearly if he were to miss next week's meeting with Real Madrid after suffering another hamstring injury.
"It’ll be a shame if he has to miss the Champions League final because he’s an important element of our team, but in these final games, you pay dearly for your efforts."
Keane: Class of '92 not 'must-have' for Van Gaal
Prospective Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal could cope without the help of former players, according to ex-captain Roy Keane.
Interim boss Ryan Giggs has been assisted by class of '92 colleagues Phil Neville, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt since taking over from David Moyes last month, guiding the team to two victories from his four games in charge.
Current Netherlands coach Van Gaal is the man widely reported to be in line to take up the job on a full-time basis, with Giggs likely to form part of his backroom staff, but Keane is unsure whether his former United team-mates would be of any benefit to the Dutchman.
"It doesn't rock my boat," he said. "People go on about the old Liverpool boot-room and all this, but no it doesn't do anything for me.
"If it guarantees success, I would go for it. But does it guarantee success? No. I don't fall for all that.
"There have been coaches over the years at United when I was there - Jim Ryan had the United connection, Brian McClair had the United connection, Mick Phelan was there, and Brian Kidd.
"It is good to have that, but I don't think it is a must-have - particularly if you think you have to have three or four of them because they came through the youth team together."
Neville arrived at Old Trafford with Moyes, but remained at the club following the Scot's departure, and Keane feels the former Everton man should have considered his own position.
"Moyes brought in Phil Neville and everybody said it was great," he added. "I would like to ask Phil what did he bring to the party; and, when Moyes left, why didn't Phil leave with him?
"You would have to ask Phil. But I know what I would have done."
Prospective Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal could cope without the help of former players, according to ex-captain Roy Keane.
Interim boss Ryan Giggs has been assisted by class of '92 colleagues Phil Neville, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt since taking over from David Moyes last month, guiding the team to two victories from his four games in charge.
Current Netherlands coach Van Gaal is the man widely reported to be in line to take up the job on a full-time basis, with Giggs likely to form part of his backroom staff, but Keane is unsure whether his former United team-mates would be of any benefit to the Dutchman.
"It doesn't rock my boat," he said. "People go on about the old Liverpool boot-room and all this, but no it doesn't do anything for me.
"If it guarantees success, I would go for it. But does it guarantee success? No. I don't fall for all that.
"There have been coaches over the years at United when I was there - Jim Ryan had the United connection, Brian McClair had the United connection, Mick Phelan was there, and Brian Kidd.
"It is good to have that, but I don't think it is a must-have - particularly if you think you have to have three or four of them because they came through the youth team together."
Neville arrived at Old Trafford with Moyes, but remained at the club following the Scot's departure, and Keane feels the former Everton man should have considered his own position.
"Moyes brought in Phil Neville and everybody said it was great," he added. "I would like to ask Phil what did he bring to the party; and, when Moyes left, why didn't Phil leave with him?
"You would have to ask Phil. But I know what I would have done."
Zidane: Ronaldo is a genius
Real Madrid assistant coach Zinedine Zidane has hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as a "genius" and is tipping the Portuguese star to impress at this summer’s World Cup.
The forward is expected to be fit for next weekend’s Champions League final against Atletico Madrid despite dropping out of the warm-up against Espanyol with a hamstring injury concern on Saturday.
Zidane has paid tribute to Madrid’s star man and is confident he will impress at the World Cup as Portugal prepare to do battle with Germany in the group stage.
"Ronaldo is an exciting talent. We see him train every day at Real Madrid and believe me, he is simply a genius," Zidane told The Times of India.
"I don’t see why he cannot carry his club form into the World Cup. What he has been achieving for Real Madrid is amazing.
"He is the best according to us, and I have every reason to believe that Cristiano will set the grass on fire.
"Yes, Portugal are in a difficult group with Germany but Cristiano has already shown his talents when they faced Germany at the same stage of Euro 2012.
"He is on song and when a footballer of his talent is on song, it is almost impossible to stop him.”
After again stating that Madrid believe he is the world’s best player, Zidane was inevitably asked whether Ronaldo had moved ahead of his Barcelona rival, Lionel Messi.
The Argentine is also aiming to secure a career-defining victory in Brazil this summer and the France legend admitted the Camp Nou star is a special talent.
Zidane continued: "This is difficult for us to say anything since we represent Real Madrid.
"But I must say Leo Messi too is a special talent to watch. Both of them belong to a special category and can win games on their own. As a football fan, we love to see both at their best."
Madrid defeated Espanyol 3-1 without Ronaldo as Alvaro Morata netted a double and Gareth Bale also found the target ahead of next week’s showdown in Lisbon.
Real Madrid assistant coach Zinedine Zidane has hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as a "genius" and is tipping the Portuguese star to impress at this summer’s World Cup.
The forward is expected to be fit for next weekend’s Champions League final against Atletico Madrid despite dropping out of the warm-up against Espanyol with a hamstring injury concern on Saturday.
Zidane has paid tribute to Madrid’s star man and is confident he will impress at the World Cup as Portugal prepare to do battle with Germany in the group stage.
"Ronaldo is an exciting talent. We see him train every day at Real Madrid and believe me, he is simply a genius," Zidane told The Times of India.
"I don’t see why he cannot carry his club form into the World Cup. What he has been achieving for Real Madrid is amazing.
"He is the best according to us, and I have every reason to believe that Cristiano will set the grass on fire.
"Yes, Portugal are in a difficult group with Germany but Cristiano has already shown his talents when they faced Germany at the same stage of Euro 2012.
"He is on song and when a footballer of his talent is on song, it is almost impossible to stop him.”
After again stating that Madrid believe he is the world’s best player, Zidane was inevitably asked whether Ronaldo had moved ahead of his Barcelona rival, Lionel Messi.
The Argentine is also aiming to secure a career-defining victory in Brazil this summer and the France legend admitted the Camp Nou star is a special talent.
Zidane continued: "This is difficult for us to say anything since we represent Real Madrid.
"But I must say Leo Messi too is a special talent to watch. Both of them belong to a special category and can win games on their own. As a football fan, we love to see both at their best."
Madrid defeated Espanyol 3-1 without Ronaldo as Alvaro Morata netted a double and Gareth Bale also found the target ahead of next week’s showdown in Lisbon.
Van Persie: I want to play up front with Robben
Robin van Persie hopes Arjen Robben will partner him up front for Netherlands in the World Cup and says he is in favour of the 5-3-2 system they are expected to use at the tournament.
Louis van Gaal's men were trailing Ecuador at the Amsterdam Arena before the Manchester United star levelled matters with a magnificent goal - excellently chesting down Jordy Clasie's pinpoint long pass and volleying past the visitors' goalkeeper.
While a 1-1 draw with Ecuador wasn't the ideal way to continue their preparations for the competition in Brazil, Van Persie was satisfied with the display and confident in the formation they used and are expected to stick with in Brazil.
"We played quite well in the second half. I believe in this system - it is different, but it is one that creates opportunities," the striker told SBS6.
"Would I be happy to play with Arjen Robben in attack? Yes, of course. He is a fantastic player and he can play anywhere."
Van Persie then heaped praise upon 22-year-old Clasie, whose wonderful pass allowed him to square the tie.
The 30-year-old continued: "That pass made the goal possible. That was a world class ball. That pass gave me the opportunity to do my thing.
"I think that pass was more beautiful than my goal. The only thing I had to do was control the ball and score. That pass from Clasie was world class."
Netherlands play Ghana in their next World Cup warm-up match on May 30, with their final fixture in preparation for the World Cup coming against Wales on June 4.
Robin van Persie hopes Arjen Robben will partner him up front for Netherlands in the World Cup and says he is in favour of the 5-3-2 system they are expected to use at the tournament.
Louis van Gaal's men were trailing Ecuador at the Amsterdam Arena before the Manchester United star levelled matters with a magnificent goal - excellently chesting down Jordy Clasie's pinpoint long pass and volleying past the visitors' goalkeeper.
While a 1-1 draw with Ecuador wasn't the ideal way to continue their preparations for the competition in Brazil, Van Persie was satisfied with the display and confident in the formation they used and are expected to stick with in Brazil.
"We played quite well in the second half. I believe in this system - it is different, but it is one that creates opportunities," the striker told SBS6.
"Would I be happy to play with Arjen Robben in attack? Yes, of course. He is a fantastic player and he can play anywhere."
Van Persie then heaped praise upon 22-year-old Clasie, whose wonderful pass allowed him to square the tie.
The 30-year-old continued: "That pass made the goal possible. That was a world class ball. That pass gave me the opportunity to do my thing.
"I think that pass was more beautiful than my goal. The only thing I had to do was control the ball and score. That pass from Clasie was world class."
Netherlands play Ghana in their next World Cup warm-up match on May 30, with their final fixture in preparation for the World Cup coming against Wales on June 4.
Schmeichel: Van Gaal will aim to win the Premier League with United
Louis van Gaal will accept nothing less than winning the Premier League with Manchester United, according to former goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel.
Van Gaal is expected to be unveiled as David Moyes' successor next week after United relinquished their league crown with a seventh-place finish this season.
The outgoing Netherlands head coach will be tasked with bringing Champions League football back to Old Trafford with a top-four finish.
However Schmeichel, who won the Premier League and Champions League amongst other titles during his eight-year spell at United, believes Van Gaal will be aiming even higher.
"The club needs a strong man to steer us back up,' the 50-year-old told the Daily Express.
"We have finished seventh, so the top four is a good target to set yourself for next season.
"But Van Gaal will not want to accept the top four - he will try and win."
While Van Gaal is yet to be confirmed as United manager, it has not stopped talk of potential transfer targets, with the club expected to invest heavily during pre-season.
Germany internationals Toni Kroos and Mats Hummels have been linked with moves to Old Trafford, and Schmeichel has given the German pair his seal of approval, should they arrive in Manchester.
"United have got [Phil] Jones, [Chris] Smalling and [Jonny] Evans but going by what the media are saying, Hummels is a target," the Dane said.
"That's a good starting point to bring him in. He has good leadership skills and he is a fantastic defender. He's someone we've been looking at for a couple of years and he's been heavily connected with United."
Louis van Gaal will accept nothing less than winning the Premier League with Manchester United, according to former goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel.
Van Gaal is expected to be unveiled as David Moyes' successor next week after United relinquished their league crown with a seventh-place finish this season.
The outgoing Netherlands head coach will be tasked with bringing Champions League football back to Old Trafford with a top-four finish.
However Schmeichel, who won the Premier League and Champions League amongst other titles during his eight-year spell at United, believes Van Gaal will be aiming even higher.
"The club needs a strong man to steer us back up,' the 50-year-old told the Daily Express.
"We have finished seventh, so the top four is a good target to set yourself for next season.
"But Van Gaal will not want to accept the top four - he will try and win."
While Van Gaal is yet to be confirmed as United manager, it has not stopped talk of potential transfer targets, with the club expected to invest heavily during pre-season.
Germany internationals Toni Kroos and Mats Hummels have been linked with moves to Old Trafford, and Schmeichel has given the German pair his seal of approval, should they arrive in Manchester.
"United have got [Phil] Jones, [Chris] Smalling and [Jonny] Evans but going by what the media are saying, Hummels is a target," the Dane said.
"That's a good starting point to bring him in. He has good leadership skills and he is a fantastic defender. He's someone we've been looking at for a couple of years and he's been heavily connected with United."
Drogba leaves Galatasaray
With Galatasaray's season now over, Didier Drogba has announced his intention to leave the Turkish club when his contract expires this summer.The 36-year-old moved from Shanghai Shenhua in January 2013 and helped the side to the Super Lig title the Turkish Super Cup the same year.
Speaking to the club's official TV channel, the former Chelsea icon issued a heartfelt goodbye."Galatasaray will always be in my heart, I'm very proud to have represented this team.
"I didn't come here for money. If I wanted money I would have stayed in China. I came to Turkey to play football, to feel the passion again. Scoring against Fenerbahce and Besiktas, I think I gave some happiness to our fans."
Drogba also went on to thank a certain former manager for recommending that he move to the Turkish heavyweights.
"Jose Mourinho and Wesley Sneijder had a big impact on my decision to sign. Jose said to me 'if Wesley is going then you should go to', so I came.
"It was great to have a chance to play alongside him [Sneijder]."
Drogba did not give any indication as to where his future lies but his foremost concern will be Cote d'Ivoire's World Cup campaign.
With Galatasaray's season now over, Didier Drogba has announced his intention to leave the Turkish club when his contract expires this summer.The 36-year-old moved from Shanghai Shenhua in January 2013 and helped the side to the Super Lig title the Turkish Super Cup the same year.
Speaking to the club's official TV channel, the former Chelsea icon issued a heartfelt goodbye."Galatasaray will always be in my heart, I'm very proud to have represented this team.
"I didn't come here for money. If I wanted money I would have stayed in China. I came to Turkey to play football, to feel the passion again. Scoring against Fenerbahce and Besiktas, I think I gave some happiness to our fans."
Drogba also went on to thank a certain former manager for recommending that he move to the Turkish heavyweights.
"Jose Mourinho and Wesley Sneijder had a big impact on my decision to sign. Jose said to me 'if Wesley is going then you should go to', so I came.
"It was great to have a chance to play alongside him [Sneijder]."
Drogba did not give any indication as to where his future lies but his foremost concern will be Cote d'Ivoire's World Cup campaign.
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