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Real Madrid UEFA Champions League Title Celebrations!!!
Tom Ince arrives in Milan ahead of Inter talks
Tom Ince has travelled to Italy to hold talks with Inter.
The winger, who is a free agent after his contract with Blackpool expired, spent the second half of last season on loan at Crystal Palace but made just eight appearances for Tony Pulis’ side.
The England youth international has long been linked with a potential switch to Walter Mazzarri's side and has now arrived in Milan to negotiate a possible move to the club this summer.
"For me it is an extraordinary adventure,” Ince told reporters.
“When I was five years old, I lived the atmosphere of San Siro because my father played here. It’s a dream.
“I have spoken many times with [Inter president Erick] Thohir, he wants to build an Inter side that is strong and competitive in Italy and in Europe.”
The 22-year-old arrived in Milan late on Sunday evening with his father Paul, who spent two seasons at the Serie A club during his playing career.
"For me is amazing return to Italy after all these years, to find this club and many friends at the airport,” Paul Ince told Sky Sports.
“I have an excellent relations with [honorary Inter president Massimo] Moratti. I'm very fond of the Inter story and I hope that my son will be part of that.”
Tom Ince has travelled to Italy to hold talks with Inter.
The winger, who is a free agent after his contract with Blackpool expired, spent the second half of last season on loan at Crystal Palace but made just eight appearances for Tony Pulis’ side.
The England youth international has long been linked with a potential switch to Walter Mazzarri's side and has now arrived in Milan to negotiate a possible move to the club this summer.
"For me it is an extraordinary adventure,” Ince told reporters.
“When I was five years old, I lived the atmosphere of San Siro because my father played here. It’s a dream.
“I have spoken many times with [Inter president Erick] Thohir, he wants to build an Inter side that is strong and competitive in Italy and in Europe.”
The 22-year-old arrived in Milan late on Sunday evening with his father Paul, who spent two seasons at the Serie A club during his playing career.
"For me is amazing return to Italy after all these years, to find this club and many friends at the airport,” Paul Ince told Sky Sports.
“I have an excellent relations with [honorary Inter president Massimo] Moratti. I'm very fond of the Inter story and I hope that my son will be part of that.”
Pogba eyeing World Cup glory with France
Paul Pogba says he is targeting winning the World Cup with France this summer and cannot wait for the competition to get started.
The 21-year-old Juventus midfielder tasted victory with Les Bleus at the Under-20 World Cup in 2013 and was named as Player of the Tournament in Turkey.
Pogba is now eager to replicate that experience with the senior side in Brazil and is enthusiastic at the prospect of testing himself against the world's best players.
"For me it is a dream to play the World Cup," he told Telefoot.
"Hopefully we will go all the way and win the competition. I played in a World Cup last summer so I'm a little used to what it is like.
"It is a long time away so I am going to have to do little tricks off the pitch to keep up morale, playing things like Playstation and table football.
"Ever since I was a kid I have been thinking of playing at the World Cup – I am super excited."
The former Manchester United midfielder has been linked with a big-money move away from the Serie A champions this summer, but believes his experiences with Juve in 2013-14 have improved him as a player.
Pogba continued: "I have made great progress this year. I played in a lot of games, which is something that I was not used to.
"I have gained a lot of experience and I am happy with myself."
France, who last won the World Cup in 1998, are up against Switzerland, Ecuador and Honduras in Group E next month.
Paul Pogba says he is targeting winning the World Cup with France this summer and cannot wait for the competition to get started.
The 21-year-old Juventus midfielder tasted victory with Les Bleus at the Under-20 World Cup in 2013 and was named as Player of the Tournament in Turkey.
Pogba is now eager to replicate that experience with the senior side in Brazil and is enthusiastic at the prospect of testing himself against the world's best players.
"For me it is a dream to play the World Cup," he told Telefoot.
"Hopefully we will go all the way and win the competition. I played in a World Cup last summer so I'm a little used to what it is like.
"It is a long time away so I am going to have to do little tricks off the pitch to keep up morale, playing things like Playstation and table football.
"Ever since I was a kid I have been thinking of playing at the World Cup – I am super excited."
The former Manchester United midfielder has been linked with a big-money move away from the Serie A champions this summer, but believes his experiences with Juve in 2013-14 have improved him as a player.
Pogba continued: "I have made great progress this year. I played in a lot of games, which is something that I was not used to.
"I have gained a lot of experience and I am happy with myself."
France, who last won the World Cup in 1998, are up against Switzerland, Ecuador and Honduras in Group E next month.
Raul: Casillas has nothing to prove
Real Madrid captain Iker Casillas "has nothing to prove" despite his error against Atletico Madrid, according to iconic former Spain striker Raul.
Diego Godin headed Atletico into the lead in Saturday's Champions League final after Casillas raced off his line and became stranded following a cross.
The goal looked set to hand Atleti the trophy until Sergio Ramos equalised in second-half injury time, before Madrid went on to win 4-1 after extra-time thanks to goals from Gareth Bale, Marcelo and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Raul - who played alongside Casillas for both club and country - says he is delighted to have seen Madrid finally win their 10th European title and insists the 33-year-old goalkeeper played a pivotal role throughout the competition.
"I feel happy, along with all Madridistas. Winning the European Cup - La Decima - is something historic, even more so as it comes after so much suffering and bad times," he said after the match.
"Iker had a great Champions League and a great season. It was unfortunate on the goal, but Madrid got to the final because he had many good days.
"He doesn't have to prove anything. I'm very happy for all of them and especially for him, as he got to lift the cup."
Courtois wants to stay, says Atletico Madrid chief
Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin claims Thibaut Courtois wants to remain at the club next season.
The 22-year-old has spent the last three years on loan with the Spanish champions but is set to return to Chelsea this summer and provide competition for Petr Cech, who could miss the start of next season as he continues to recover from a dislocated shoulder.
Courtois has already claimed that returning to Stamford Bridge with Cech still in the side “is not the healthiest thing in the world”.
"He wants to stay and that's what he said to his coach,” Marin told reporters after Atletico's Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid.
“But it does not depend on him and Chelsea’s goalkeeper is injured.”
Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin claims Thibaut Courtois wants to remain at the club next season.
The 22-year-old has spent the last three years on loan with the Spanish champions but is set to return to Chelsea this summer and provide competition for Petr Cech, who could miss the start of next season as he continues to recover from a dislocated shoulder.
Courtois has already claimed that returning to Stamford Bridge with Cech still in the side “is not the healthiest thing in the world”.
"He wants to stay and that's what he said to his coach,” Marin told reporters after Atletico's Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid.
“But it does not depend on him and Chelsea’s goalkeeper is injured.”
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Ikey in da? Thanks to RMA, Khedira is in form
Belgium 5-1 Luxembourg: Lukaku hits hat-trick as Januzaj makes international debut
Romelu Lukaku scored a hat-trick and Adnan Januzaj made his long-awaited international debut in Belgium's 5-1 friendly win over Luxembourg.
Chelsea striker Lukaku will play a key role at the upcoming World Cup for coach Marc Wilmots after fellow forward Christian Benteke was ruled out with a serious Achilles injury.
And he warmed up for the Brazil showpiece in style, as his well-taken treble highlighted Monday's routine win in Genk.
Januzaj's appearance was also noteworthy, with the Manchester United youngster – the subject of lengthy debate about his international future – coming off the bench at half-time.
Another substitute, Tottenham's Nacer Chadli, scored the fourth before Kevin De Bruyne netted a late penalty as Belgium, eventually, won well.
This was by no means a vintage performance, though, and Wilmots will demand more from his side in further pre-World Cup friendlies against Sweden and Tunisia.
Belgium open their World Cup campaign against Algeria on June 17.
Goalkeeper Simon Mignolet sustained a minor injury in training on Saturday and Atletico Madrid's Thibaut Courtois was rested after featuring in the weekend's Champions League final.
With Hoffenheim's Koen Casteels also injured, 28-year-old shot-stopper Sammy Bossut – who plays his club football for Zulte-Waregem – made his international debut.
Lukaku gave Belgium the lead in just the third minute after Marouane Fellaini dispossessed Lars Gerson and played in the striker, who shot around advancing Luxembourg goalkeeper Anthony Moris and in.
Aurelien Joachim scored a stunning equaliser for Luxembourg just 10 minutes later, though, beating Bossut with an outstanding 30-yard strike.
Joachim held off the attentions of Thomas Vermaelen to take down a long ball, before lashing in with his left foot, and the same player caught Vincent Kompany napping in the 17th minute, only for Bossut to deny him with an impressive save.
Fellaini headed a corner over before Lukaku got his second with 23 minutes gone, as he pounced after Maxime Chanot's attempted clearance fell into his path, and scored, via a ricochet off Moris.
Lukaku lifted over Moris – but wide – and his search for a treble went on as the goalkeeper saved superbly to his right three minutes before the break.
Januzaj was one of Wilmots' five half-time changes and saw Lukaku become the first player to score a hat-trick for Belgium since Bob Peeters achieved the feat in 2001.
Lukaku gathered the ball outside the penalty area, cutting inside Tom Schnell and then beating Chris Philipps before netting a composed left-foot finish.
Mario Mutsch had a diving header saved at the other end before Chadli grabbed his third international goal 19 minutes from time with a driven effort from just inside the penalty area.
And there was still time for De Bruyne to make his mark, converting from the spot after another debutant Divick Origi was felled in the area.
Romelu Lukaku scored a hat-trick and Adnan Januzaj made his long-awaited international debut in Belgium's 5-1 friendly win over Luxembourg.
Chelsea striker Lukaku will play a key role at the upcoming World Cup for coach Marc Wilmots after fellow forward Christian Benteke was ruled out with a serious Achilles injury.
And he warmed up for the Brazil showpiece in style, as his well-taken treble highlighted Monday's routine win in Genk.
Januzaj's appearance was also noteworthy, with the Manchester United youngster – the subject of lengthy debate about his international future – coming off the bench at half-time.
Another substitute, Tottenham's Nacer Chadli, scored the fourth before Kevin De Bruyne netted a late penalty as Belgium, eventually, won well.
This was by no means a vintage performance, though, and Wilmots will demand more from his side in further pre-World Cup friendlies against Sweden and Tunisia.
Belgium open their World Cup campaign against Algeria on June 17.
Goalkeeper Simon Mignolet sustained a minor injury in training on Saturday and Atletico Madrid's Thibaut Courtois was rested after featuring in the weekend's Champions League final.
With Hoffenheim's Koen Casteels also injured, 28-year-old shot-stopper Sammy Bossut – who plays his club football for Zulte-Waregem – made his international debut.
Lukaku gave Belgium the lead in just the third minute after Marouane Fellaini dispossessed Lars Gerson and played in the striker, who shot around advancing Luxembourg goalkeeper Anthony Moris and in.
Aurelien Joachim scored a stunning equaliser for Luxembourg just 10 minutes later, though, beating Bossut with an outstanding 30-yard strike.
Joachim held off the attentions of Thomas Vermaelen to take down a long ball, before lashing in with his left foot, and the same player caught Vincent Kompany napping in the 17th minute, only for Bossut to deny him with an impressive save.
Fellaini headed a corner over before Lukaku got his second with 23 minutes gone, as he pounced after Maxime Chanot's attempted clearance fell into his path, and scored, via a ricochet off Moris.
Lukaku lifted over Moris – but wide – and his search for a treble went on as the goalkeeper saved superbly to his right three minutes before the break.
Januzaj was one of Wilmots' five half-time changes and saw Lukaku become the first player to score a hat-trick for Belgium since Bob Peeters achieved the feat in 2001.
Lukaku gathered the ball outside the penalty area, cutting inside Tom Schnell and then beating Chris Philipps before netting a composed left-foot finish.
Mario Mutsch had a diving header saved at the other end before Chadli grabbed his third international goal 19 minutes from time with a driven effort from just inside the penalty area.
And there was still time for De Bruyne to make his mark, converting from the spot after another debutant Divick Origi was felled in the area.
Russia 1--0 Slovakia : Capello's men leave it late in St Petersburg
Russia were far from convincing as they began their World Cup preparations with a 1-0 win over Slovakia in St Petersburg on Monday.
Fabio Capello's side had to wait until the 82nd minute to break the deadlock as Alexander Kerzhakov came off the bench to head home the winner from close range.Alan Dzagoev and Aleksandr Kokorin both wasted chances in the first half, while Slovakia had good spells of possession in both halves and saw Vladimir Weiss go close on two occasions to break the deadlock.
Vladimir Weiss and Miroslav Stoch both wasted early chances for Slovakia in the opening 15 minutes, with the former seeing his deflected shot in the seventh minute well saved by Igor Akinfeev.
Russia's first chance on target came in the 18th minute as Dzagoev saw a low effort easily saved by Jan Mucha, and Kokorin was also unable to stretch the goalkeeper nine minutes later.The visitors worked their way back into the game in the closing stages of the half only for Akinfeev to deny Robert Mak and Stoch.
Russia had the ball in the net in the 57th minute as Kokorin fired low past Mucha from close range, but the 23-year-old's effort was disallowed after being flagged offside.Oleg Shatov spurned three presentable opportunities at goal as the hosts became desperate but the breakthrough finally came with eight minutes to play.
Substitute Kerzhakov peeled away from his marker inside the penalty area to head Maksim Kanunnikov's left-wing cross into the bottom corner from five yards.
Russia continue their warm-up for the finals with another friendly against Norway on Saturday in Oslo, before facing Morocco in Moscow on June 6.
Russia were far from convincing as they began their World Cup preparations with a 1-0 win over Slovakia in St Petersburg on Monday.
Fabio Capello's side had to wait until the 82nd minute to break the deadlock as Alexander Kerzhakov came off the bench to head home the winner from close range.Alan Dzagoev and Aleksandr Kokorin both wasted chances in the first half, while Slovakia had good spells of possession in both halves and saw Vladimir Weiss go close on two occasions to break the deadlock.
Vladimir Weiss and Miroslav Stoch both wasted early chances for Slovakia in the opening 15 minutes, with the former seeing his deflected shot in the seventh minute well saved by Igor Akinfeev.
Russia's first chance on target came in the 18th minute as Dzagoev saw a low effort easily saved by Jan Mucha, and Kokorin was also unable to stretch the goalkeeper nine minutes later.The visitors worked their way back into the game in the closing stages of the half only for Akinfeev to deny Robert Mak and Stoch.
Russia had the ball in the net in the 57th minute as Kokorin fired low past Mucha from close range, but the 23-year-old's effort was disallowed after being flagged offside.Oleg Shatov spurned three presentable opportunities at goal as the hosts became desperate but the breakthrough finally came with eight minutes to play.
Substitute Kerzhakov peeled away from his marker inside the penalty area to head Maksim Kanunnikov's left-wing cross into the bottom corner from five yards.
Russia continue their warm-up for the finals with another friendly against Norway on Saturday in Oslo, before facing Morocco in Moscow on June 6.
Australia 1-1 South Africa: Cahill rescues a draw for Socceroos
Ivan Franjic gave Australia coach Ange Postecoglou an injury scare in his side's 1-1 friendly draw with South Africa on Monday.
First-choice right-back Franjic limped off early in the second half of the match in Sydney after sustaining a knock to his knee.
The Brisbane Roar man is expected to be able to travel to Brazil with the rest of the Australia squad, but Postecoglou is likely to be sweating on the fitness of one of his key players with just one friendly remaining before their World Cup opener against Chile on June 13.
Postecoglou had captain Tim Cahill to thank for ensuring Australia did not sign off their home-based preparations with a defeat, as he popped up with a trademark header to equalise just one minute after Ayanda Patosi's early opener for South Africa.A frantic opening to the game brought two goals inside the first 15 minutes.First, Patosi finished smartly past Mat Ryan after a good move down the visitors' left-hand side.
South Africa's lead lasted just 60 seconds, though, as Cahill levelled matters from the hosts' first attack after the restart.New York Red Bulls' midfielder Cahill, playing in a more advanced role for his country, could have put Australia ahead a minute later, only to be foiled by a superb save from Senzo Meyiwa.
The game then settled into a pattern of end-to-end attacking football, with Australia threatening on several occasions.Substitute Ben Halloran went close with a long-range effort, before Dario Vidosic missed a great chance to snatch a winner late on.
Postecoglou was forced to settle for a draw, but his primary concern will be the fitness of Franjic ahead of a daunting World Cup campaign.
Ivan Franjic gave Australia coach Ange Postecoglou an injury scare in his side's 1-1 friendly draw with South Africa on Monday.
First-choice right-back Franjic limped off early in the second half of the match in Sydney after sustaining a knock to his knee.
The Brisbane Roar man is expected to be able to travel to Brazil with the rest of the Australia squad, but Postecoglou is likely to be sweating on the fitness of one of his key players with just one friendly remaining before their World Cup opener against Chile on June 13.
Postecoglou had captain Tim Cahill to thank for ensuring Australia did not sign off their home-based preparations with a defeat, as he popped up with a trademark header to equalise just one minute after Ayanda Patosi's early opener for South Africa.A frantic opening to the game brought two goals inside the first 15 minutes.First, Patosi finished smartly past Mat Ryan after a good move down the visitors' left-hand side.
South Africa's lead lasted just 60 seconds, though, as Cahill levelled matters from the hosts' first attack after the restart.New York Red Bulls' midfielder Cahill, playing in a more advanced role for his country, could have put Australia ahead a minute later, only to be foiled by a superb save from Senzo Meyiwa.
The game then settled into a pattern of end-to-end attacking football, with Australia threatening on several occasions.Substitute Ben Halloran went close with a long-range effort, before Dario Vidosic missed a great chance to snatch a winner late on.
Postecoglou was forced to settle for a draw, but his primary concern will be the fitness of Franjic ahead of a daunting World Cup campaign.
Schurrle expects Hazard to stay at Chelsea
Chelsea forward Andre Schurrle believes Eden Hazard will remain at Stamford Bridge despite receiving public criticism from manager Jose Mourinho.
Hazard heads to the World Cup with Belgium on the back of a fine season at club level, yet his future has been the subject of speculation.
After the Stamford Bridge club exited the Champions League to Atletico Madrid at the semi-final stage, the 23-year-old appeared to question the tactics of manager Mourinho, who subsequently suggested Hazard was "not the kind of player ready to sacrifice himself 100 per cent for the team".
French champions Paris Saint-Germain have been linked with a move for Hazard, with coach Laurent Blanc openly airing his admiration for the forward.
Yet Schurrle, who has just completed his first season at Stamford Bridge, expects to play alongside Hazard again next term.
"The manager and the club know that Eden Hazard is a very talented and good player. I think we should not overestimate these things," said Schurrle in a press conference held at Germany's training camp ahead of the World Cup.
"Of course statements were published, but I believe Eden is very happy to be with Chelsea and Mourinho is happy to have him. Next season everything will be all right again."
Asked for his thoughts on Mourinho, the German replied: "I admire his attitude and his way of thinking. It's all about winning. He wants to win every game.
"He regards every title and every victory as a matter of course, no matter who's the opponent.
"I admire his will. I've never experienced something like this before. His greed for success is impressive."
Chelsea forward Andre Schurrle believes Eden Hazard will remain at Stamford Bridge despite receiving public criticism from manager Jose Mourinho.
Hazard heads to the World Cup with Belgium on the back of a fine season at club level, yet his future has been the subject of speculation.
After the Stamford Bridge club exited the Champions League to Atletico Madrid at the semi-final stage, the 23-year-old appeared to question the tactics of manager Mourinho, who subsequently suggested Hazard was "not the kind of player ready to sacrifice himself 100 per cent for the team".
French champions Paris Saint-Germain have been linked with a move for Hazard, with coach Laurent Blanc openly airing his admiration for the forward.
Yet Schurrle, who has just completed his first season at Stamford Bridge, expects to play alongside Hazard again next term.
"The manager and the club know that Eden Hazard is a very talented and good player. I think we should not overestimate these things," said Schurrle in a press conference held at Germany's training camp ahead of the World Cup.
"Of course statements were published, but I believe Eden is very happy to be with Chelsea and Mourinho is happy to have him. Next season everything will be all right again."
Asked for his thoughts on Mourinho, the German replied: "I admire his attitude and his way of thinking. It's all about winning. He wants to win every game.
"He regards every title and every victory as a matter of course, no matter who's the opponent.
"I admire his will. I've never experienced something like this before. His greed for success is impressive."
Uruguay: We don't know when Suarez will return
Uruguay doctor Alberto Pan is refusing to give any potential return dates for Liverpool striker Luis Suarez.
The former Ajax man's participation at this summer's World Cup is in doubt after he underwent surgery last week to correct a minor knee problem.
Pan says the 27-year-old is progressing well and could still travel to Brazil but is still unsure over when he will be fit for action.
"The core of the concept of his return was expressed in the initial statement made in the immediate post-operative period and we can happily say that Luis' participation in the World Cup is not ruled out," he told reporters.
"It is very risky to give exact dates. We cannot have absolute certainty or clear numbers but the postoperative period has been very good.
"Luis is not ruled out of the World Cup, but you cannot talk about specific times. Luis is very positive, I never heard a negative expression, and he says it is better every day.
"Today Suarez is pain-free and is working on fitness and supporting essentials."
Coach Oscar Tabarez, meanwhile, is adamant that he will not take any risks over his star player's health.
"What happens with Luis will depend on the evolution of his knee," Tabarez said.
"We have no doubt about his enthusiasm and condition but our main concern is the health of the player."
Uruguay doctor Alberto Pan is refusing to give any potential return dates for Liverpool striker Luis Suarez.
The former Ajax man's participation at this summer's World Cup is in doubt after he underwent surgery last week to correct a minor knee problem.
Pan says the 27-year-old is progressing well and could still travel to Brazil but is still unsure over when he will be fit for action.
"The core of the concept of his return was expressed in the initial statement made in the immediate post-operative period and we can happily say that Luis' participation in the World Cup is not ruled out," he told reporters.
"It is very risky to give exact dates. We cannot have absolute certainty or clear numbers but the postoperative period has been very good.
"Luis is not ruled out of the World Cup, but you cannot talk about specific times. Luis is very positive, I never heard a negative expression, and he says it is better every day.
"Today Suarez is pain-free and is working on fitness and supporting essentials."
Coach Oscar Tabarez, meanwhile, is adamant that he will not take any risks over his star player's health.
"What happens with Luis will depend on the evolution of his knee," Tabarez said.
"We have no doubt about his enthusiasm and condition but our main concern is the health of the player."
Brazil must avoid Spain, says Pele
Brazil legend Pele is eager for his country to avoid facing Spain at this summer's World Cup on home soil.
Vicente del Bosque's side enter the tournament as the reigning champions and have won back-to-back European Championships in 2008 and 2012.
The Selecao overcame Spain 3-0 in last summer's Confederations Cup but the 73-year-old is still wary of the world champions and has grave concerns about Brazil's front line.
"The most important thing for Brazil is that they don't meet Spain," he told GQ.
"They're a fantastic team to watch, are very organised and don't have a weak point. The only good thing about Spain from our perspective is that they play a clean game.
"They like to play and allow the other side to play and that's important for a team like Brazil. Spain are a side who play modern football.
"The Spanish have the same way of finding space and playing the ball.
"In the run up to World Cups, Brazil had had an attack which was the best in the world, although there were always comments that the defence wasn't was as good.
"This year, however, we have a team that who are very good from the middle of the pitch backwards but we need to sort out our front line."
Pele also admitted that he would have preferred Spain international Thiago Alcantara - born to Brazilian parents - to have chosen to represent Luiz Felipe Scolari's side.
"He would have been particularly good for us. I would have liked to have him in my team," Pele added.
Brazil legend Pele is eager for his country to avoid facing Spain at this summer's World Cup on home soil.
Vicente del Bosque's side enter the tournament as the reigning champions and have won back-to-back European Championships in 2008 and 2012.
The Selecao overcame Spain 3-0 in last summer's Confederations Cup but the 73-year-old is still wary of the world champions and has grave concerns about Brazil's front line.
"The most important thing for Brazil is that they don't meet Spain," he told GQ.
"They're a fantastic team to watch, are very organised and don't have a weak point. The only good thing about Spain from our perspective is that they play a clean game.
"They like to play and allow the other side to play and that's important for a team like Brazil. Spain are a side who play modern football.
"The Spanish have the same way of finding space and playing the ball.
"In the run up to World Cups, Brazil had had an attack which was the best in the world, although there were always comments that the defence wasn't was as good.
"This year, however, we have a team that who are very good from the middle of the pitch backwards but we need to sort out our front line."
Pele also admitted that he would have preferred Spain international Thiago Alcantara - born to Brazilian parents - to have chosen to represent Luiz Felipe Scolari's side.
"He would have been particularly good for us. I would have liked to have him in my team," Pele added.
Brazil have the world's best defence - Carlos Alberto Parreira
Brazil technical director Carlos Alberto Parreira believes the World Cup hosts boast the strongest defence in the tournament as they prepare for next month's opening encounter.
With David Luiz poised to complete a transfer to Paris Saint-Germain for just under €50 million, and with captain Thiago Silva having joined the French champions from Milan for €42m in 2012, the Selecao possess the most expensive central-defensive pairing in the competition this summer.
And with Real Madrid's Champions League final goalscorer Marcelo set to link up with the squad shortly, Carlos Alberto is confident that the defensive strength of Luiz Felipe Scolari's side will shine through.
"He [Marcelo] will get here by lunchtime tomorrow, that is something decided by the player himself," he told reporters on Monday.
"We trust these players. Just take a look at the team: we have the best and most expensive central defence in the world, Maxwell is here, great players, great strikers."
The 1994 World Cup-winning coach accepts Brazil are favourites this summer but insists the players must earn the right to be considered the strongest side and has warned of the extensive scouting assessments of their opponents this summer.
"We are not obliged to win, but we are favourites," he said. "At the 2002 World Cup, 90 per cent of the people would bet on Argentina or France, who didn’t make it past the group stage. This [favourites tag] isn't a game-changer. You have to get on the pitch and show you're worthy of it.
"We won't be surprised. We have two scouts, and people helping us to know about the other teams. Every team has been studied, not only our group opponents, but a total of 16 teams. You don't have to worry, we won't be surprised in that sense."
Brazil have not hosted international football's greatest tournament since their shock defeat to Uruguay in 1950 and Carlos Alberto insists the current team is determined to make amends for the infamous Maracanazo.
"It's different than anything we've participated in before," he said of this summer's showpiece. "Now we're at home, and we have to try and rescue that identity here.
"We already lost one and don't want to lose another. Definitely, the Selecao will get a lot of love from the fans, they will be our 12th player, as important as they were during the Confederations Cup [in 2013]."
Meanwhile, Scolari's assistant Flavio Murtosa is confident Neymar will be fully fit for the opening clash with Croatia and says the squad is prepared for their assault on the trophy.
"The medical department will determine the state of every player," he said. "Neymar will have full conditions to train with the rest of the team, I believe. The fact that he already played 30 minutes against Atletico Madrid shows that he's recovered already.
"This group knows it's a difficult cup, but they have conditions to win it, and we'll work for that to happen."
Brazil technical director Carlos Alberto Parreira believes the World Cup hosts boast the strongest defence in the tournament as they prepare for next month's opening encounter.
With David Luiz poised to complete a transfer to Paris Saint-Germain for just under €50 million, and with captain Thiago Silva having joined the French champions from Milan for €42m in 2012, the Selecao possess the most expensive central-defensive pairing in the competition this summer.
And with Real Madrid's Champions League final goalscorer Marcelo set to link up with the squad shortly, Carlos Alberto is confident that the defensive strength of Luiz Felipe Scolari's side will shine through.
"He [Marcelo] will get here by lunchtime tomorrow, that is something decided by the player himself," he told reporters on Monday.
"We trust these players. Just take a look at the team: we have the best and most expensive central defence in the world, Maxwell is here, great players, great strikers."
The 1994 World Cup-winning coach accepts Brazil are favourites this summer but insists the players must earn the right to be considered the strongest side and has warned of the extensive scouting assessments of their opponents this summer.
"We are not obliged to win, but we are favourites," he said. "At the 2002 World Cup, 90 per cent of the people would bet on Argentina or France, who didn’t make it past the group stage. This [favourites tag] isn't a game-changer. You have to get on the pitch and show you're worthy of it.
"We won't be surprised. We have two scouts, and people helping us to know about the other teams. Every team has been studied, not only our group opponents, but a total of 16 teams. You don't have to worry, we won't be surprised in that sense."
Brazil have not hosted international football's greatest tournament since their shock defeat to Uruguay in 1950 and Carlos Alberto insists the current team is determined to make amends for the infamous Maracanazo.
"It's different than anything we've participated in before," he said of this summer's showpiece. "Now we're at home, and we have to try and rescue that identity here.
"We already lost one and don't want to lose another. Definitely, the Selecao will get a lot of love from the fans, they will be our 12th player, as important as they were during the Confederations Cup [in 2013]."
Meanwhile, Scolari's assistant Flavio Murtosa is confident Neymar will be fully fit for the opening clash with Croatia and says the squad is prepared for their assault on the trophy.
"The medical department will determine the state of every player," he said. "Neymar will have full conditions to train with the rest of the team, I believe. The fact that he already played 30 minutes against Atletico Madrid shows that he's recovered already.
"This group knows it's a difficult cup, but they have conditions to win it, and we'll work for that to happen."
Totti: I'll retire before I embarrass myself
Roma icon Francesco Totti has pledged to hang up his boots before he "makes a fool" of himself on the pitch.
The 37-year-old has represented his hometown team for over 20 years but enjoyed a stellar campaign last season, scoring eight goals as the capital club finished second in Serie A despite a lengty injury lay-off.
The former Italy international insists he is not thinking about ending his career just yet but admits he will bow out of the game before he does anything to tarnish his own reputation.
"I grew up playing football and I think that I will die doing something with or talking about football," he told GQ.
"But I'll be the first to say that I want to throw in the towel. I definitely won't stay on the pitch to make a fool of myself.
"I have not thought about how my last game will be but I'm sure it will be very exciting and it'll be in front of the Roma fans.
"At the same time, it will be terrifying. That day will be the end of the realisation of my childhood dream."
Roma icon Francesco Totti has pledged to hang up his boots before he "makes a fool" of himself on the pitch.
The 37-year-old has represented his hometown team for over 20 years but enjoyed a stellar campaign last season, scoring eight goals as the capital club finished second in Serie A despite a lengty injury lay-off.
The former Italy international insists he is not thinking about ending his career just yet but admits he will bow out of the game before he does anything to tarnish his own reputation.
"I grew up playing football and I think that I will die doing something with or talking about football," he told GQ.
"But I'll be the first to say that I want to throw in the towel. I definitely won't stay on the pitch to make a fool of myself.
"I have not thought about how my last game will be but I'm sure it will be very exciting and it'll be in front of the Roma fans.
"At the same time, it will be terrifying. That day will be the end of the realisation of my childhood dream."
AC Milan set to replace Seedorf with Inzaghi
AC Milan are set to replace coach Clarence Seedorf with the Dutchman's former team-mate Filippo Inzaghi, Goal has learned.
The former Netherlands international took over at San Siro in January following the sacking of Massimiliano Allegri and delivered the club to an eighth-placed finish in Serie A.
However, he has not done enough to keep his job after the relationship between coach and board deteriorated during his five-month spell.
Milan have been searching for a replacement, but have been put off their pusuit of Sevilla coach Unai Emery due to the high costs involved.
Club management figures, including owner Silvio Berlusconi and CEO Adriano Galliani, met on Monday afternoon and have decided that Inzaghi is the only viable candidate to train the team next season.
The 40-year-old enjoyed a glittering 11-year spell at the Giuseppe Meazza, winning Serie A and the Champions League twice apiece.
Since his retirement in 2012, he has been in charge of the club's Primavera side and has long been seen as a future coach for the full team.
Berlusconi and Galliani are expected to inform the former Italy of their decision to promote him imminently.
AC Milan are set to replace coach Clarence Seedorf with the Dutchman's former team-mate Filippo Inzaghi, Goal has learned.
The former Netherlands international took over at San Siro in January following the sacking of Massimiliano Allegri and delivered the club to an eighth-placed finish in Serie A.
However, he has not done enough to keep his job after the relationship between coach and board deteriorated during his five-month spell.
Milan have been searching for a replacement, but have been put off their pusuit of Sevilla coach Unai Emery due to the high costs involved.
Club management figures, including owner Silvio Berlusconi and CEO Adriano Galliani, met on Monday afternoon and have decided that Inzaghi is the only viable candidate to train the team next season.
The 40-year-old enjoyed a glittering 11-year spell at the Giuseppe Meazza, winning Serie A and the Champions League twice apiece.
Since his retirement in 2012, he has been in charge of the club's Primavera side and has long been seen as a future coach for the full team.
Berlusconi and Galliani are expected to inform the former Italy of their decision to promote him imminently.
Rodgers targeting Champions League glory with Liverpool
Brendan Rodgers expects Liverpool to be tough to beat in the Champions League next season as he looks to turn them into a leading club in Europe.
The Reds boss was rewarded with a new long-term contract on Monday after leading the Anfield club back to the Champions League with a second-place finish in the Premier League, ending a five-year absence from Europe's premier club competition.
Liverpool narrowly missed out on the league title to Manchester City, with a home defeat against Chelsea and a dramatic collapse in a 3-3 draw with Crystal Palace in the penultimate game of the season effectively ending their hopes of winning a first English top-flight crown for 24 years.
Rodgers is eager to atone for that near-miss and win the Premier League next season, but also has high hopes for the Merseyside club's Champions League campaign.
Liverpool have won the competition five times but are expected to enter the group stage in pot three, meaning that they will likely face a difficult assignment to qualify for the last 16.But Rodgers is hopeful that the legendary Anfield atmosphere in continental clashes will have an impact on their fortunes.
"We're into the Champions League. Our dream and goal is to win the Premier League," Rodgers told the club's official website."That's what we want to do. We've shown this season that we can compete for that. With some new additions in the summer, we believe that we can fight again.
"The objective for me was to try to get Liverpool established again as one of the leading clubs in European and domestic football and we're on course for that."I've seen the games before and I've been fortunate enough to have been at Anfield on a Champions League occasion and they are truly special occasions.
"You see the support the players get. Throughout my time here, in the big games, the supporters really show how passionate they are and they show why they are the great set of supporters that they are.
"We'll really look forward to it. We know that, in the Champions League, if we can perform well away from home, that in the home games, we're going to be hard to beat because of the supporters and the quality of the team."
Brendan Rodgers expects Liverpool to be tough to beat in the Champions League next season as he looks to turn them into a leading club in Europe.
The Reds boss was rewarded with a new long-term contract on Monday after leading the Anfield club back to the Champions League with a second-place finish in the Premier League, ending a five-year absence from Europe's premier club competition.
Liverpool narrowly missed out on the league title to Manchester City, with a home defeat against Chelsea and a dramatic collapse in a 3-3 draw with Crystal Palace in the penultimate game of the season effectively ending their hopes of winning a first English top-flight crown for 24 years.
Rodgers is eager to atone for that near-miss and win the Premier League next season, but also has high hopes for the Merseyside club's Champions League campaign.
Liverpool have won the competition five times but are expected to enter the group stage in pot three, meaning that they will likely face a difficult assignment to qualify for the last 16.But Rodgers is hopeful that the legendary Anfield atmosphere in continental clashes will have an impact on their fortunes.
"We're into the Champions League. Our dream and goal is to win the Premier League," Rodgers told the club's official website."That's what we want to do. We've shown this season that we can compete for that. With some new additions in the summer, we believe that we can fight again.
"The objective for me was to try to get Liverpool established again as one of the leading clubs in European and domestic football and we're on course for that."I've seen the games before and I've been fortunate enough to have been at Anfield on a Champions League occasion and they are truly special occasions.
"You see the support the players get. Throughout my time here, in the big games, the supporters really show how passionate they are and they show why they are the great set of supporters that they are.
"We'll really look forward to it. We know that, in the Champions League, if we can perform well away from home, that in the home games, we're going to be hard to beat because of the supporters and the quality of the team."
Atletico Madrid can be an example for Netherlands, says Van Gaal
Louis van Gaal believes Atletico Madrid can be an example to the Netherlands in this summer's World Cup.
Diego Simeone's side won the Spanish league on the final day of the season and narrowly lost out in the Champions League final, leading until a Sergio Ramos header deep into injury time ensured the tie went into extra-time, with Real Madrid going on to win 4-1.
But Van Gaal believes his team can learn from the Spaniards with their defensive solidity, pressing game and fighting spirit but insisted his own set-up at corners would prevent a goal like Ramos' equaliser.
"I think Atletico can be an example for Netherlands," he told reporters.
"We train with a four against four game for our build up play and that’s always a very aggressive way to train. When we were watching the Champions League final, I told my players: do you understand why we train four on four? I want players to be aggressive in our pressure game.
"We also have a player on the line during corners. We always discuss this with our goalkeeper and the goalkeeper coach."
Netherlands are expected to line up in a 5-3-2 system in the World Cup, with Arjen Robben and Robin van Persie looking likely to make up the front two, and Van Gaal believes the duo can make a good partnership.
Manchester United's new boss said: "I think Robben and Van Persie can be very good together. But we still have to see how they do it. We’ve done it a few times during this week, but the No.10 is also important in our attack.
"I have a good feeling about it. I’m satisfied about the way they play together. I really want to see how our opponents play against us. I don’t think they’ll defend man-on-man against Van Persie, Robben and Sneijder. That’s why our new system is very hard to defend."
The 62-year-old added he has been pleasantly surprised by how Sneijder is performing in training.
"Wesley Sneijder is a positive surprise for me. He makes a very good impression on me and looks very fit," continued Van Gaal.
"I think that’s due to the player himself. I read that it was the work of the Dutch national team manager, but I always think that the player does that to himself.
"If he gets in form, he can be a very important player for us. I saw a difference between the Sneijder from December and January and the Sneijder from last week.
"The chance that he will play gets bigger when I see how fit he is at the moment."
The coach then added he knows the vast majority of names that will make up his final squad for the tournament in Brazil, adding he will reveal the 23-man squad later this week.
Van Gaal said: "I know 20 players of my definite squad. It depends a bit on the match of Netherlands U21 v Scotland on Wednesday. We will evaluate this match and make our decision partly based on the players in that team.
"Before the match with Ghana on Saturday I will announce my 23-man squad. On June 2 I have to give my list to the Fifa, but I will make my decision earlier. Our starting XI for during the World Cup will play against Ghana."
Louis van Gaal believes Atletico Madrid can be an example to the Netherlands in this summer's World Cup.
Diego Simeone's side won the Spanish league on the final day of the season and narrowly lost out in the Champions League final, leading until a Sergio Ramos header deep into injury time ensured the tie went into extra-time, with Real Madrid going on to win 4-1.
But Van Gaal believes his team can learn from the Spaniards with their defensive solidity, pressing game and fighting spirit but insisted his own set-up at corners would prevent a goal like Ramos' equaliser.
"I think Atletico can be an example for Netherlands," he told reporters.
"We train with a four against four game for our build up play and that’s always a very aggressive way to train. When we were watching the Champions League final, I told my players: do you understand why we train four on four? I want players to be aggressive in our pressure game.
"We also have a player on the line during corners. We always discuss this with our goalkeeper and the goalkeeper coach."
Netherlands are expected to line up in a 5-3-2 system in the World Cup, with Arjen Robben and Robin van Persie looking likely to make up the front two, and Van Gaal believes the duo can make a good partnership.
Manchester United's new boss said: "I think Robben and Van Persie can be very good together. But we still have to see how they do it. We’ve done it a few times during this week, but the No.10 is also important in our attack.
"I have a good feeling about it. I’m satisfied about the way they play together. I really want to see how our opponents play against us. I don’t think they’ll defend man-on-man against Van Persie, Robben and Sneijder. That’s why our new system is very hard to defend."
The 62-year-old added he has been pleasantly surprised by how Sneijder is performing in training.
"Wesley Sneijder is a positive surprise for me. He makes a very good impression on me and looks very fit," continued Van Gaal.
"I think that’s due to the player himself. I read that it was the work of the Dutch national team manager, but I always think that the player does that to himself.
"If he gets in form, he can be a very important player for us. I saw a difference between the Sneijder from December and January and the Sneijder from last week.
"The chance that he will play gets bigger when I see how fit he is at the moment."
The coach then added he knows the vast majority of names that will make up his final squad for the tournament in Brazil, adding he will reveal the 23-man squad later this week.
Van Gaal said: "I know 20 players of my definite squad. It depends a bit on the match of Netherlands U21 v Scotland on Wednesday. We will evaluate this match and make our decision partly based on the players in that team.
"Before the match with Ghana on Saturday I will announce my 23-man squad. On June 2 I have to give my list to the Fifa, but I will make my decision earlier. Our starting XI for during the World Cup will play against Ghana."
England can emulate Liverpool, says Sturridge
Daniel Sturridge has called on England to follow Liverpool's example and mount an unlikely challenge for World Cup glory.
Sturridge formed one half of a lethal strike partnership with Luis Suarez at Anfield this season as the Reds came agonisingly close to claiming a first top-flight title since 1990.
Buoyed by a return of 21 Premier League goals, the former Chelsea forward sees no reason why England cannot mount a similar challenge despite their status as outsiders.
"There are other nations that are in a similar situation to us," he told reporters. "There are no real favourites at this World Cup. Everyone's got a chance.
"It's like when you look at the Premier League last season. Nobody would've said Liverpool would be challenging or have a chance of winning it. So regardless of whether we have pressure or not, whether people are saying we'll win it or we won't - it doesn't matter.
"It's a different level of football to the Premier League. You have to understand, it's everyone's dream to play in the World Cup. I've been dreaming of this since I was a kid, so for me I'm just excited about it."
Rather than dwelling on the disappointment of missing out on the title, Sturridge insists Liverpool have started to appreciate what they achieved in securing a return to the Champions League.
He added: "It was boxed off the day after we lost it. You've got to move on. Your lives have to move on.
"It obviously wasn't a great feeling, but we set ourselves the target of getting into the Champions League and we achieved that, so everybody's content.
"But sometimes you get so close, you feel like you've almost won it and then don't achieve that - it's disappointing."
Daniel Sturridge has called on England to follow Liverpool's example and mount an unlikely challenge for World Cup glory.
Sturridge formed one half of a lethal strike partnership with Luis Suarez at Anfield this season as the Reds came agonisingly close to claiming a first top-flight title since 1990.
Buoyed by a return of 21 Premier League goals, the former Chelsea forward sees no reason why England cannot mount a similar challenge despite their status as outsiders.
"There are other nations that are in a similar situation to us," he told reporters. "There are no real favourites at this World Cup. Everyone's got a chance.
"It's like when you look at the Premier League last season. Nobody would've said Liverpool would be challenging or have a chance of winning it. So regardless of whether we have pressure or not, whether people are saying we'll win it or we won't - it doesn't matter.
"It's a different level of football to the Premier League. You have to understand, it's everyone's dream to play in the World Cup. I've been dreaming of this since I was a kid, so for me I'm just excited about it."
Rather than dwelling on the disappointment of missing out on the title, Sturridge insists Liverpool have started to appreciate what they achieved in securing a return to the Champions League.
He added: "It was boxed off the day after we lost it. You've got to move on. Your lives have to move on.
"It obviously wasn't a great feeling, but we set ourselves the target of getting into the Champions League and we achieved that, so everybody's content.
"But sometimes you get so close, you feel like you've almost won it and then don't achieve that - it's disappointing."
Balotelli: I get treated badly because I'm black
AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli believes he gets unfair criticism simply because he is black.
The striker has developed a reputation for being a disruptive figure throughout his career, having made the headlines on several occasions for his involvement in numerous controversial incidents, including training ground bust-ups and disagreements with coaches.
Balotelli fell out with Jose Mourinho at Inter as well as Roberto Mancini during his time with Manchester City. When at City he also let off fireworks in his bathroom the night before facing local rivals Manchester United.
Such behaviour has made him a target, however, and his return to Italy with Milan has been marred by frequent incidents of racist abuse.
The latest came just last week when he was singled out by Italy fans while he trained with the national team at the pre-World Cup base near Florence.
The 23-year-old feels that, because he is black, he is criticised more for his actions than he would be if he were white.
"I make some mistakes and I always pay for them," he told GQ Italy. "But if I were white they would only insult me for the mistakes.
"The problem is not the things that I do but that these things are allowed to happen to me.
"It is only the stupid and the ignorant who take issue with me. I'm different and this annoys people."
AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli believes he gets unfair criticism simply because he is black.
The striker has developed a reputation for being a disruptive figure throughout his career, having made the headlines on several occasions for his involvement in numerous controversial incidents, including training ground bust-ups and disagreements with coaches.
Balotelli fell out with Jose Mourinho at Inter as well as Roberto Mancini during his time with Manchester City. When at City he also let off fireworks in his bathroom the night before facing local rivals Manchester United.
Such behaviour has made him a target, however, and his return to Italy with Milan has been marred by frequent incidents of racist abuse.
The latest came just last week when he was singled out by Italy fans while he trained with the national team at the pre-World Cup base near Florence.
The 23-year-old feels that, because he is black, he is criticised more for his actions than he would be if he were white.
"I make some mistakes and I always pay for them," he told GQ Italy. "But if I were white they would only insult me for the mistakes.
"The problem is not the things that I do but that these things are allowed to happen to me.
"It is only the stupid and the ignorant who take issue with me. I'm different and this annoys people."
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