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Italy 0-1 Uruguay: Godin dumps 10-man Azzurri out of World Cup
Diego Godin struck late on to send Uruguay into the last-16 of the World Cup and dump 10-man Italy out of the tournament, but Luis Suarez stole the headlines for all the wrong reasons yet again.The Liverpool forward appeared to bite the shoulder of Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini towards the end of Tuesday's match in Natal.
Diego Godin subsequently bundled in a corner for the game's only goal, sending Uruguay through to the last-16 at Italy's expense.Yet Suarez's apparent indiscipline is likely to grab the headlines, with the 27-year-old having been involved in biting incidents before at both Liverpool and Ajax.
Italy, who needed only a point to qualify alongside Costa Rica, were hampered by the 59th-minute dismissal of Claudio Marchisio, for a high tackle on Egidio Arevalo.They will now be left to rue another first-round exit at the World Cup, their second in succession, while Uruguay await the winner of Group C.
It remains to be seen whether Suarez will receive punishment for his apparent bite, with Fifa able to examine his tangle with Chiellini should they feel disciplinary action is warranted. Prior to the late drama, Italy looked set to do enough to shut out their opponents as they soaked up pressure with relative comfort.The match began with a host of full-blooded challenges, perhaps unsurprisingly given the prize at stake.
Mario Balotelli will have had Italy worried when he began to limp after a heavy challenge, while Suarez and Chiellini were also on the receiving end of physical collisions in a feisty opening.
The crowd had to wait until the 12th minute to see an effort on target, when Andrea Pirlo fired a dipping free-kick that Fernando Muslera needed to tip over, and the remainder of the opening half-hour passed by with little action of note.
Gianluigi Buffon was then called on to deny Suarez and Christian Lodeiro from close range following intricate build-up play, while Martin Caceres struck an audacious effort way wide from distance.
Cavani's appeal for a penalty was waved away following a tangle with Leonardo Bonucci before Cristian Rodriguez wasted a golden opportunity for Uruguay.
Suarez clipped a ball in to the Atletico Madrid man, who skewed an effort wide when through on goal.Marchisio was handed a straight red shortly after and Suarez was quick to test the 10 men of Italy - bursting through the defence only to be denied by Buffon.
If that showed the Liverpool man's talent on the ball, his clash with Chiellini seemingly offered an insight into the less savoury side of Suarez's will to win.
The Juve defender was eager to show referee Marco Rodriguez his shoulder and Italian tempers flared considerably after Godin headed in the winner.
Cesare Prandelli's side were unable to find an equaliser and questions over the actions of Suarez appear set to dominate the aftermath of Italy's elimination.
Diego Godin struck late on to send Uruguay into the last-16 of the World Cup and dump 10-man Italy out of the tournament, but Luis Suarez stole the headlines for all the wrong reasons yet again.The Liverpool forward appeared to bite the shoulder of Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini towards the end of Tuesday's match in Natal.
Diego Godin subsequently bundled in a corner for the game's only goal, sending Uruguay through to the last-16 at Italy's expense.Yet Suarez's apparent indiscipline is likely to grab the headlines, with the 27-year-old having been involved in biting incidents before at both Liverpool and Ajax.
Italy, who needed only a point to qualify alongside Costa Rica, were hampered by the 59th-minute dismissal of Claudio Marchisio, for a high tackle on Egidio Arevalo.They will now be left to rue another first-round exit at the World Cup, their second in succession, while Uruguay await the winner of Group C.
It remains to be seen whether Suarez will receive punishment for his apparent bite, with Fifa able to examine his tangle with Chiellini should they feel disciplinary action is warranted. Prior to the late drama, Italy looked set to do enough to shut out their opponents as they soaked up pressure with relative comfort.The match began with a host of full-blooded challenges, perhaps unsurprisingly given the prize at stake.
Mario Balotelli will have had Italy worried when he began to limp after a heavy challenge, while Suarez and Chiellini were also on the receiving end of physical collisions in a feisty opening.
The crowd had to wait until the 12th minute to see an effort on target, when Andrea Pirlo fired a dipping free-kick that Fernando Muslera needed to tip over, and the remainder of the opening half-hour passed by with little action of note.
Gianluigi Buffon was then called on to deny Suarez and Christian Lodeiro from close range following intricate build-up play, while Martin Caceres struck an audacious effort way wide from distance.
Cavani's appeal for a penalty was waved away following a tangle with Leonardo Bonucci before Cristian Rodriguez wasted a golden opportunity for Uruguay.
Suarez clipped a ball in to the Atletico Madrid man, who skewed an effort wide when through on goal.Marchisio was handed a straight red shortly after and Suarez was quick to test the 10 men of Italy - bursting through the defence only to be denied by Buffon.
If that showed the Liverpool man's talent on the ball, his clash with Chiellini seemingly offered an insight into the less savoury side of Suarez's will to win.
The Juve defender was eager to show referee Marco Rodriguez his shoulder and Italian tempers flared considerably after Godin headed in the winner.
Cesare Prandelli's side were unable to find an equaliser and questions over the actions of Suarez appear set to dominate the aftermath of Italy's elimination.
Costa Rica 0-0 England: Draw seals top spot for Pinto's men
England ended their World Cup campaign with a dour 0-0 draw against Costa Rica, as Jorge Pinto's side clinched top spot in Group D.
The tournament's surprise package thrilled with skill and ambition in shock wins over Uruguay and Italy that secured their passage to the last 16.
The pre-tournament outsiders found themselves in the unexpected position of being able to leave plenty in the tank in Belo Horizonte - an admirable achievement that did not make for an engaging spectacle.
Celso Borges had a first-half free-kick touched against the crossbar, while the bulk of England's chances fell to Daniel Sturridge - one of only two survivors from the line-up that lost the opening two matches.
The Liverpool striker found the prolific streak he displayed in the Premier League last season to have deserted him, and Roy Hodgson's team could take little from the contest aside from avoiding the ignominy of losing all three World Cup round-robin games for the first time in their history.Uruguay's 1-0 win in a similarly scrappy encounter against Italy in Natal ensured that Group D claimed the scalps of two European teams.
Joel Campbell saw a speculative second-minute effort deflect wide and Costa Rica's control of the opening exchanges underlined the gulf in confidence between the two teams.
The 12th minute brought England's first sight of goal, with Sturridge whipping a shot narrowly wide of the target following bright build-up play by Jack Wilshere.
A 15th-minute Mexican wave rippling through the Estadio Mineirao said much for the lack of intensity in a game between one side already through to the round of 16 and another with their bags packed, before Sturridge tried his luck from distance once more.Ben Foster was the first goalkeeper called into action when he superbly tipped Borges’ free-kick behind via his crossbar.
Sturridge had a 27th-minute penalty claim rejected, going to ground under close attention from Oscar Duarte, and another half-chance fell the striker’s way, but he could not keep his header down after Phil Jones nodded Ross Barkley's corner back across goal.Barkley fashioned space for himself in the 42nd minute, but his subsequent slice wide underscored a half desperately lacking in quality.Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas was out to quickly to thwart Sturridge as Luke Shaw’s deflected 49th-minute shot looped into his path.
Shaw was fortunate not to join Adam Lallana and Barkley in the book amid a scrappy period as the hour approached, while Giancarlo Gonzalez was deservedly cautioned for scything through the latter.
Christian Bolanos looked to do something a touch more constructive when he stung Foster's palms from 20 yards, while Sturridge exchanged passes with Wilshere and wasted his clearest opportunity of the match in the 65th minute.
A flurry of late substitutions did not increase the entertainment factor as Costa Rica looked forward to a knockout clash against the runner-up in Group C - where Ivory Coast, Greece and Japan all retain ambitions of following likely winners Colombia into the knockout stages later today.
For England, who belatedly extended Navas when substitute Wayne Rooney sent a delicate 80th-minute chip goalwards, a grimly familiar period of reflection and attempted renewal awaits.
England ended their World Cup campaign with a dour 0-0 draw against Costa Rica, as Jorge Pinto's side clinched top spot in Group D.
The tournament's surprise package thrilled with skill and ambition in shock wins over Uruguay and Italy that secured their passage to the last 16.
The pre-tournament outsiders found themselves in the unexpected position of being able to leave plenty in the tank in Belo Horizonte - an admirable achievement that did not make for an engaging spectacle.
Celso Borges had a first-half free-kick touched against the crossbar, while the bulk of England's chances fell to Daniel Sturridge - one of only two survivors from the line-up that lost the opening two matches.
The Liverpool striker found the prolific streak he displayed in the Premier League last season to have deserted him, and Roy Hodgson's team could take little from the contest aside from avoiding the ignominy of losing all three World Cup round-robin games for the first time in their history.Uruguay's 1-0 win in a similarly scrappy encounter against Italy in Natal ensured that Group D claimed the scalps of two European teams.
Joel Campbell saw a speculative second-minute effort deflect wide and Costa Rica's control of the opening exchanges underlined the gulf in confidence between the two teams.
The 12th minute brought England's first sight of goal, with Sturridge whipping a shot narrowly wide of the target following bright build-up play by Jack Wilshere.
A 15th-minute Mexican wave rippling through the Estadio Mineirao said much for the lack of intensity in a game between one side already through to the round of 16 and another with their bags packed, before Sturridge tried his luck from distance once more.Ben Foster was the first goalkeeper called into action when he superbly tipped Borges’ free-kick behind via his crossbar.
Sturridge had a 27th-minute penalty claim rejected, going to ground under close attention from Oscar Duarte, and another half-chance fell the striker’s way, but he could not keep his header down after Phil Jones nodded Ross Barkley's corner back across goal.Barkley fashioned space for himself in the 42nd minute, but his subsequent slice wide underscored a half desperately lacking in quality.Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas was out to quickly to thwart Sturridge as Luke Shaw’s deflected 49th-minute shot looped into his path.
Shaw was fortunate not to join Adam Lallana and Barkley in the book amid a scrappy period as the hour approached, while Giancarlo Gonzalez was deservedly cautioned for scything through the latter.
Christian Bolanos looked to do something a touch more constructive when he stung Foster's palms from 20 yards, while Sturridge exchanged passes with Wilshere and wasted his clearest opportunity of the match in the 65th minute.
A flurry of late substitutions did not increase the entertainment factor as Costa Rica looked forward to a knockout clash against the runner-up in Group C - where Ivory Coast, Greece and Japan all retain ambitions of following likely winners Colombia into the knockout stages later today.
For England, who belatedly extended Navas when substitute Wayne Rooney sent a delicate 80th-minute chip goalwards, a grimly familiar period of reflection and attempted renewal awaits.
Sissoko: France are going places
Moussa Sissoko is confident France have the ability to reach the latter stages of the World Cup.
Didier Deschamps' side stumbled through their qualification campaign and only made it to Brazil after defeating Ukraine over two-legs in the play-offs.
Since then, France have looked a different side and saw off 10-man Honduras 3-0 in their opening group stage game, before hammering Switzerland 5-2 to all but secure a place in the last-16.
They now require only a point against Ecuador in the Maracana on Wednesday to finish top of Group E, with Sissoko in optimistic mood.
"We've been regularly improving our standard since the second leg against Ukraine,” Sissoko told Fifa.com.
"Since then, we've realised we have the qualities to achieve something great, and that's what we're now showing the world.
"We've played two good matches with lots of goals, good combinations, solid work at the back and great attacking moves.
"We'll try to play the way we have since the start of the tournament and remain united on the pitch. If we can do that, France can go very far."
France last won the competition in 1998, but suffered group-stage exits in both 2002 and 2010.
Moussa Sissoko is confident France have the ability to reach the latter stages of the World Cup.
Didier Deschamps' side stumbled through their qualification campaign and only made it to Brazil after defeating Ukraine over two-legs in the play-offs.
Since then, France have looked a different side and saw off 10-man Honduras 3-0 in their opening group stage game, before hammering Switzerland 5-2 to all but secure a place in the last-16.
They now require only a point against Ecuador in the Maracana on Wednesday to finish top of Group E, with Sissoko in optimistic mood.
"We've been regularly improving our standard since the second leg against Ukraine,” Sissoko told Fifa.com.
"Since then, we've realised we have the qualities to achieve something great, and that's what we're now showing the world.
"We've played two good matches with lots of goals, good combinations, solid work at the back and great attacking moves.
"We'll try to play the way we have since the start of the tournament and remain united on the pitch. If we can do that, France can go very far."
France last won the competition in 1998, but suffered group-stage exits in both 2002 and 2010.
Kuyt: Robben is the best player at the World Cup
Dirk Kuyt claims he would not swap Netherlands team-mate Arjen Robben for any other player at the World Cup.
Robben has made a sensational start to the tournament, scoring three goals as Holland won all three of their Group B matches to book a last-16 clash against Mexico on Sunday.
“I wouldn’t swap Robben for any player in the world,” Kuyt said on Tuesday. “He is having an amazing World Cup. He’s scored goals and created goals, he’s so fast and he is a very important player for us.
“He causes defenders so many problems and we have a very strong attack. We also have Van Persie and Sneijder who are playing very well.”
Kuyt, who played at left-back in Monday’s 2-0 win over Chile in Sao Paulo, expects a stern test when the Netherlands face Mexico in Fortaleza.
“Mexico are very well respected by the Dutch and by the whole world. We know it will be a difficult match.
“Of course I know their players. I’m very surprised (Javier) Hernandez is not in the team. In my opinion he is a great player so they must be strong if he is on the bench.”
Dirk Kuyt claims he would not swap Netherlands team-mate Arjen Robben for any other player at the World Cup.
Robben has made a sensational start to the tournament, scoring three goals as Holland won all three of their Group B matches to book a last-16 clash against Mexico on Sunday.
“I wouldn’t swap Robben for any player in the world,” Kuyt said on Tuesday. “He is having an amazing World Cup. He’s scored goals and created goals, he’s so fast and he is a very important player for us.
“He causes defenders so many problems and we have a very strong attack. We also have Van Persie and Sneijder who are playing very well.”
Kuyt, who played at left-back in Monday’s 2-0 win over Chile in Sao Paulo, expects a stern test when the Netherlands face Mexico in Fortaleza.
“Mexico are very well respected by the Dutch and by the whole world. We know it will be a difficult match.
“Of course I know their players. I’m very surprised (Javier) Hernandez is not in the team. In my opinion he is a great player so they must be strong if he is on the bench.”
Helena Costa accuses Clermont of 'amateurism' and 'lack of 'respect'
Helena Costa has revealed she left her position as coach of French Ligue 2 club Clermont because of the "amateurism" and "lack of respect" she encountered at the club.
Costa, a Portuguese who began her career in the youth ranks of Benfica, was set to become the first female coach of a professional club in the top two tiers of any European league in the men's game, but has quit after her first day in the job.
Announcing her departure on Monday, the club's president Claude Michy called Costa's decision "sudden and surprising", but in a statement issued to A Bola, the 36-year-old insists it was "due to a sequence of events that no coach would tolerate".
Costa claims that Clermont sporting director Olivier Chavanon did not respond to her emails for five days, and that she learned of prospective signings and the pre-season fixture schedule from the club secretary.
When she requested more information on signings and voiced her disapproval of some of the chosen targets, Costa says Chavanon replied: "Your emails are tiresome ... I'm not your PA ... I'm not at your disposal".
Costa reveals she then arranged a meeting with Michy and demanded that Chavanon be sacked but, having agreed to intervene personally, the Clermont president then broke off all communication with her.
When the news of Costa's departure broke Michy claimed to be mystified and told reporters: "She’s a woman. They are capable of leading us to believe in certain things and then she simply said 'I'm going.'
"We couldn't make her change her mind. She leaves with her secret intact."
Sonia Saouid, the former beauty queen and football agent who helped bring Costa to Clermont, condemned the Portuguese's decision to leave in an interview with L'Equipe on Tuesday.
"I don’t recognise the Helena Costa who turned up for the press conference last month," she insisted.
"We were just confronted with a wall. Her mind was made up. I am sad and angry for all the women who would like to have been in her place. I am angry because she has made a selfish decision."
In 2013 Hilda Ordonez became the first woman to take charge of a South American top-flight team when she was appointed head coach of Bolivian first division club Sport Boys Warnes for the final three games of the season.
Helena Costa has revealed she left her position as coach of French Ligue 2 club Clermont because of the "amateurism" and "lack of respect" she encountered at the club.
Costa, a Portuguese who began her career in the youth ranks of Benfica, was set to become the first female coach of a professional club in the top two tiers of any European league in the men's game, but has quit after her first day in the job.
Announcing her departure on Monday, the club's president Claude Michy called Costa's decision "sudden and surprising", but in a statement issued to A Bola, the 36-year-old insists it was "due to a sequence of events that no coach would tolerate".
Costa claims that Clermont sporting director Olivier Chavanon did not respond to her emails for five days, and that she learned of prospective signings and the pre-season fixture schedule from the club secretary.
When she requested more information on signings and voiced her disapproval of some of the chosen targets, Costa says Chavanon replied: "Your emails are tiresome ... I'm not your PA ... I'm not at your disposal".
Costa reveals she then arranged a meeting with Michy and demanded that Chavanon be sacked but, having agreed to intervene personally, the Clermont president then broke off all communication with her.
When the news of Costa's departure broke Michy claimed to be mystified and told reporters: "She’s a woman. They are capable of leading us to believe in certain things and then she simply said 'I'm going.'
"We couldn't make her change her mind. She leaves with her secret intact."
Sonia Saouid, the former beauty queen and football agent who helped bring Costa to Clermont, condemned the Portuguese's decision to leave in an interview with L'Equipe on Tuesday.
"I don’t recognise the Helena Costa who turned up for the press conference last month," she insisted.
"We were just confronted with a wall. Her mind was made up. I am sad and angry for all the women who would like to have been in her place. I am angry because she has made a selfish decision."
In 2013 Hilda Ordonez became the first woman to take charge of a South American top-flight team when she was appointed head coach of Bolivian first division club Sport Boys Warnes for the final three games of the season.
Manchester United & Tottenham target Depay will decide future after World Cup
Manchester United and Tottenham target Memphis Depay says he will wait until after the World Cup before making a decision on his future.
Spurs are keen admirers of Depay while reports have suggested that Netherlands coach Louis Van Gaal wants to take the PSV forward with him to Old Trafford.
Depay, 20, has scored two goals as a substitute for Holland at the World Cup and the €20 million-rated forward refused to be drawn on his future during a press conference in Rio de Janiero on Tuesday.
“I’m now in the World Cup and after that we will see,” Depay said.
“I have a contact with PSV until 2017, so we will have to see what happens in the future.”
Manchester United and Tottenham target Memphis Depay says he will wait until after the World Cup before making a decision on his future.
Spurs are keen admirers of Depay while reports have suggested that Netherlands coach Louis Van Gaal wants to take the PSV forward with him to Old Trafford.
Depay, 20, has scored two goals as a substitute for Holland at the World Cup and the €20 million-rated forward refused to be drawn on his future during a press conference in Rio de Janiero on Tuesday.
“I’m now in the World Cup and after that we will see,” Depay said.
“I have a contact with PSV until 2017, so we will have to see what happens in the future.”
Llorente: I’m staying at Juventus
Juventus striker Fernando Llorente has dismissed speculation linking him with a move away from the club.
The Spain striker, who joined from Athletic Bilbao last summer on a free transfer, recovered from a difficult start in Italy to hit 16 goals in 34 Serie A appearances as Juve won a third straight Serie A title.
But despite rumours the Old Lady are ready to offload the 29-year-old, who was left out of Vicente Del Bosque’s World Cup squad, Llorente says he is not considering a move away from Turin.
“My future? It is with Juventus and I feel very happy here,” he told Sky Italia.
“I have had a quiet break. I'm glad to be here and I’m not thinking of anything else.”
Llorente has three years to run on his current contract but has been linked with a move to the Premier League as Juve continue their pursuit of Barcelona forward Alexis Sanchez.
Juventus striker Fernando Llorente has dismissed speculation linking him with a move away from the club.
The Spain striker, who joined from Athletic Bilbao last summer on a free transfer, recovered from a difficult start in Italy to hit 16 goals in 34 Serie A appearances as Juve won a third straight Serie A title.
But despite rumours the Old Lady are ready to offload the 29-year-old, who was left out of Vicente Del Bosque’s World Cup squad, Llorente says he is not considering a move away from Turin.
“My future? It is with Juventus and I feel very happy here,” he told Sky Italia.
“I have had a quiet break. I'm glad to be here and I’m not thinking of anything else.”
Llorente has three years to run on his current contract but has been linked with a move to the Premier League as Juve continue their pursuit of Barcelona forward Alexis Sanchez.
Don't blame defeat on me - Shaqiri
Xherdan Shaqiri has told the media to stop trying to blame Switzerland's 5-2 defeat to France on him and says he cannot win games single-handedly.
Switzerland have one win and one defeat from their opening two matches, with Shaqiri unquestionably the biggest name in Ottmar Hitzfeld's squad.
But the Bayern Munich winger is the reluctant focus of media attention and has hit back at criticism of his performance against France on Friday.
Elaborating on those comments at a media conference on Monday, Shaqiri said: "I am satisfied with my performance.
"[But] one must not expect me to decide the games alone. The team needs me, I need the team.
"I do not care what is written about me. It is not all dependent on me. It annoys me.
"I cannot dribble from the back to the front. We are Switzerland, not Spain, not Brazil. Switzerland needs to be successful as a team."
Switzerland meet Honduras in their final Group E fixture on Wednesday and need to better Ecuador's result against France to be sure of progression.
Xherdan Shaqiri has told the media to stop trying to blame Switzerland's 5-2 defeat to France on him and says he cannot win games single-handedly.
Switzerland have one win and one defeat from their opening two matches, with Shaqiri unquestionably the biggest name in Ottmar Hitzfeld's squad.
But the Bayern Munich winger is the reluctant focus of media attention and has hit back at criticism of his performance against France on Friday.
Elaborating on those comments at a media conference on Monday, Shaqiri said: "I am satisfied with my performance.
"[But] one must not expect me to decide the games alone. The team needs me, I need the team.
"I do not care what is written about me. It is not all dependent on me. It annoys me.
"I cannot dribble from the back to the front. We are Switzerland, not Spain, not Brazil. Switzerland needs to be successful as a team."
Switzerland meet Honduras in their final Group E fixture on Wednesday and need to better Ecuador's result against France to be sure of progression.
Robben: Germany are World Cup favourites
Netherlands forward Arjen Robben says Germany are the favourites to lift the World Cup in Brazil.
The three-time world champions hammered Portugal 4-0 in their Group G opener before a draw with Ghana left them requiring only a point against USA on Thursday to secure their progression to the last-16.
And Bayern Munich winger Robben believes Joachim Low’s side have what it takes to claim their fourth world title, and what what would be the first for a unified Germany.
“Germany are my favourites for the World Cup,” he said. They are playing very well.
The Netherlands themselves are now being labelled as real contenders after they followed up a 5-1 hammering of reigning world champions Spain with victories over Australia and Chile to top Group B.
But Robben says it’s important that they stay grounded and continue to implement coach Louis Van Gaal’s instructions.
“We must keep our feet on the ground. We must maintain our fighting attitude and everyone must be there for one another,” he added.
"We must trust the coach if we want to achieve something here.
“He just knows what he is doing. If you win, then you've always done everything right.”
Netherlands will meet Mexico in the Round of 16 on June 29.
Netherlands forward Arjen Robben says Germany are the favourites to lift the World Cup in Brazil.
The three-time world champions hammered Portugal 4-0 in their Group G opener before a draw with Ghana left them requiring only a point against USA on Thursday to secure their progression to the last-16.
And Bayern Munich winger Robben believes Joachim Low’s side have what it takes to claim their fourth world title, and what what would be the first for a unified Germany.
“Germany are my favourites for the World Cup,” he said. They are playing very well.
The Netherlands themselves are now being labelled as real contenders after they followed up a 5-1 hammering of reigning world champions Spain with victories over Australia and Chile to top Group B.
But Robben says it’s important that they stay grounded and continue to implement coach Louis Van Gaal’s instructions.
“We must keep our feet on the ground. We must maintain our fighting attitude and everyone must be there for one another,” he added.
"We must trust the coach if we want to achieve something here.
“He just knows what he is doing. If you win, then you've always done everything right.”
Netherlands will meet Mexico in the Round of 16 on June 29.
Kompany: I was close to joining Barcelona
Vincent Kompany insists he has no plans to leave Manchester City but revealed he was close to joining Barcelona earlier in his career.
The Belgium defender and club captain is currently contracted to the Premier League champions until 2017, with Goal exclusively revealing he is close to signing a two-year extension.
Barcelona have been long-term admirers of Kompany, and the 28-year-old has revealed past approaches from the Liga giants but confirmed there has been no interest of late.
"I've been close a few times to signing for [Barcelona], there was contact," he told Mundo Deportivo.
"But in recent times, I can officially assure you there has not been anything that I know of."
City's hierarchy see Kompany as a possible future executive at the end of his playing days, and the 28-year-old has revealed he has no intention of departing the Etihad Stadium and the "attractive" project at the club.
"I have a current contract with Manchester City, I am very comfortable," he said
"We have won the Premier League, we have a serious and attractive project. It is not in my plans to leave the team."
Vincent Kompany insists he has no plans to leave Manchester City but revealed he was close to joining Barcelona earlier in his career.
The Belgium defender and club captain is currently contracted to the Premier League champions until 2017, with Goal exclusively revealing he is close to signing a two-year extension.
Barcelona have been long-term admirers of Kompany, and the 28-year-old has revealed past approaches from the Liga giants but confirmed there has been no interest of late.
"I've been close a few times to signing for [Barcelona], there was contact," he told Mundo Deportivo.
"But in recent times, I can officially assure you there has not been anything that I know of."
City's hierarchy see Kompany as a possible future executive at the end of his playing days, and the 28-year-old has revealed he has no intention of departing the Etihad Stadium and the "attractive" project at the club.
"I have a current contract with Manchester City, I am very comfortable," he said
"We have won the Premier League, we have a serious and attractive project. It is not in my plans to leave the team."
Vela signs extension with Real Sociedad
Real Sociedad have agreed a deal with Arsenal that sees Carlos Vela sign a new contract with the Spanish club, cancelling out the English side's buy back option.
The Mexican striker has been at the club since 2011, after spending a season on loan before joining on a permanent deal.
The Basque side bought him for €3 million in 2012 but the Gunners had a buy back option which would see him return to London for only €4m.
After a good season in La Liga, reports began to circulate that the Premier League giants could activate the option, but Sociedad revealed on Tuesday that the two clubs have agreed a new deal which nullifies the clause and he has signed a new deal which ensures he remains in Spain for at least another four years.
"Real Sociedad have reached an agreement with Arsenal FC which will allow Carlos Vela to continue at the club on a permanent basis," a statement on the club's website read.
"The player meanwhile, has signed a contract extension which ties him to Real Sociedad for the next four seasons.
"The player's previous contract was due to expire in June 2016. The Mexican striker has now formally signed his new contract."
Real Sociedad have agreed a deal with Arsenal that sees Carlos Vela sign a new contract with the Spanish club, cancelling out the English side's buy back option.
The Mexican striker has been at the club since 2011, after spending a season on loan before joining on a permanent deal.
The Basque side bought him for €3 million in 2012 but the Gunners had a buy back option which would see him return to London for only €4m.
After a good season in La Liga, reports began to circulate that the Premier League giants could activate the option, but Sociedad revealed on Tuesday that the two clubs have agreed a new deal which nullifies the clause and he has signed a new deal which ensures he remains in Spain for at least another four years.
"Real Sociedad have reached an agreement with Arsenal FC which will allow Carlos Vela to continue at the club on a permanent basis," a statement on the club's website read.
"The player meanwhile, has signed a contract extension which ties him to Real Sociedad for the next four seasons.
"The player's previous contract was due to expire in June 2016. The Mexican striker has now formally signed his new contract."
Suarez has always wanted to join Barcelona - Gabri
Former Barcelona player Gabri says Luis Suarez has always wanted to play for the Spanish club.
Suarez's excellent performances for Liverpool over the last two years has seen him attract interest from Barca, Real Madrid and Arsenal, but the Merseyside club are desperate to hold onto him as they prepare to play in the Champions League.
Gabri says he is close to his former Ajax team-mate and says the Uruguay star would like to join the Catalan side and believes he would be a great addition to the team.
"He's a player that has always considered coming here one day, and if he did it would make me very happy," he told La Xarxa.
"I think Barca would be making a great signing. He would adapt very quickly because of his hunger and he would be a very good fit for the club. He also has his wife's family in Barcelona."He's mature as a footballer. He's a player with character and personality. If he were to come to Barcelona he would have what it takes to deal with the pressure of playing for a club like Barca."
The 35-year-old Champions League winner added: "Luis Suarez is a goalscorer. He can score goals out of practically nothing. His position is as a number 9, but he's also played on the wing sometimes.
"He's good with his head, he's fast, and he's a very complete player who's in great form."We got to know each other at Ajax and became very good friends. We speak the same language and that helped him to adapt to the team and to life in Holland.
"Our wives also became friends and we have kept in touch."
Former Barcelona player Gabri says Luis Suarez has always wanted to play for the Spanish club.
Suarez's excellent performances for Liverpool over the last two years has seen him attract interest from Barca, Real Madrid and Arsenal, but the Merseyside club are desperate to hold onto him as they prepare to play in the Champions League.
Gabri says he is close to his former Ajax team-mate and says the Uruguay star would like to join the Catalan side and believes he would be a great addition to the team.
"He's a player that has always considered coming here one day, and if he did it would make me very happy," he told La Xarxa.
"I think Barca would be making a great signing. He would adapt very quickly because of his hunger and he would be a very good fit for the club. He also has his wife's family in Barcelona."He's mature as a footballer. He's a player with character and personality. If he were to come to Barcelona he would have what it takes to deal with the pressure of playing for a club like Barca."
The 35-year-old Champions League winner added: "Luis Suarez is a goalscorer. He can score goals out of practically nothing. His position is as a number 9, but he's also played on the wing sometimes.
"He's good with his head, he's fast, and he's a very complete player who's in great form."We got to know each other at Ajax and became very good friends. We speak the same language and that helped him to adapt to the team and to life in Holland.
"Our wives also became friends and we have kept in touch."
Bundesliga fixtures announced - Bayern meet Wolfsburg in season opener
The countdown to the new Bundesliga season has begun, with the fixtures for the 2014-15 season released.
Bayern Munich, league winners for the last two seasons, begin the fight to retain their title when they get the 52nd Bundesliga season underway on Friday August 22 against Wolfsburg in the Allianz Arena. They face Schalke in their second game of the season.
The opening weekend also sees Borussia Dortmund face Bayer Leverkusen, while Schalke travel to play Hannover. The league's newly-promoted teams Koln and Paderborn meet Hamburg and Mainz, respectively.
The first Ruhr derby between Dortmund and Schalke takes place in the final weekend in August before Bayern host Jurgen Klopp's side at the end of October, with the return match taking place either on May 4 or 5.
The season comes to an end with Pep Guardiola's side taking on Mainz and Dortmund playing Werder Bremen.
The countdown to the new Bundesliga season has begun, with the fixtures for the 2014-15 season released.
Bayern Munich, league winners for the last two seasons, begin the fight to retain their title when they get the 52nd Bundesliga season underway on Friday August 22 against Wolfsburg in the Allianz Arena. They face Schalke in their second game of the season.
The opening weekend also sees Borussia Dortmund face Bayer Leverkusen, while Schalke travel to play Hannover. The league's newly-promoted teams Koln and Paderborn meet Hamburg and Mainz, respectively.
The first Ruhr derby between Dortmund and Schalke takes place in the final weekend in August before Bayern host Jurgen Klopp's side at the end of October, with the return match taking place either on May 4 or 5.
The season comes to an end with Pep Guardiola's side taking on Mainz and Dortmund playing Werder Bremen.
Chiellini: Biter Suarez should have seen red
Giorgio Chiellini has hit out at referee Marco Rodriguez for failing to send off Luis Suarez for an alleged bite as Italy exited the World Cup with a 1-0 defeat to Uruguay on Tuesday.
Diego Godin's 81st-minute header settled a tense encounter, which also saw Italy midfielder Claudio Marchisio dismissed, to send the South Americans through and dump the Azzurri out.
However, the game's most contentious moment came when Chiellini clashed with Suarez, with the Juventus centre-half accusing the Liverpool forward of biting him and the officials of making a grave error.
"The game was decided by the referee," the 29-year-old told Sky Italia.
"It's a shame because we deserved it [to go through]. During the first half there had been many situations with different treatments - the expulsion of Marchisio was ridiculous and that, along with the lack of punishment for Suarez, has changed everything.
"Eventually it proved decisive. Suarez is smart because Fifa allow it because they want to their champions to play. The referee saw everything, but did not have the courage.
"There are episodes that affect the game. The action is clear, they say that the referees are informed on the players, but obviously they are not."
Giorgio Chiellini has hit out at referee Marco Rodriguez for failing to send off Luis Suarez for an alleged bite as Italy exited the World Cup with a 1-0 defeat to Uruguay on Tuesday.
Diego Godin's 81st-minute header settled a tense encounter, which also saw Italy midfielder Claudio Marchisio dismissed, to send the South Americans through and dump the Azzurri out.
However, the game's most contentious moment came when Chiellini clashed with Suarez, with the Juventus centre-half accusing the Liverpool forward of biting him and the officials of making a grave error.
"The game was decided by the referee," the 29-year-old told Sky Italia.
"It's a shame because we deserved it [to go through]. During the first half there had been many situations with different treatments - the expulsion of Marchisio was ridiculous and that, along with the lack of punishment for Suarez, has changed everything.
"Eventually it proved decisive. Suarez is smart because Fifa allow it because they want to their champions to play. The referee saw everything, but did not have the courage.
"There are episodes that affect the game. The action is clear, they say that the referees are informed on the players, but obviously they are not."
Suarez shrugs off Chiellini bite claim: These things happen in the area
Uruguay striker Luis Suarez has shrugged off the controversy surrounding his clash with Giorgio Chiellini in Tuesday's World Cup win over Italy, arguing that "these things happen inside the penalty area".
Diego Godin scored the only goal of the game with just nine minutes remaining in Natal, as the Celeste dramatically progressed to the last 16 at the expense of the Azzurri, who only needed a draw to go through.
However, Uruguay's success has already been overshadowed by Chiellini's claim that Suarez should have been sent off for allegedly biting him on the back of the shoulder when the pair clashed in the box shortly before the deadlock was broken.
The Liverpool striker, though, says that the incident has been blown out of all proportion.
"These things happen inside the penalty area," Suarez told Uruguay's Channel 10 radio station. "We were chest against shoulder. I also immediately suffered a blow to the eye."
Suarez preferred to instead hail his side for the way in which they recovered from surprisingly losing their tournament opener against Costa Rica by defeating both England and Italy to seal a place in the knockout stage.
"We were very strong," the attacker enthused. "We did a great job. I think that having started the World Cup badly and turning the situation on its head, we deserved to go through to the next round.
"I had no more energy [at the end of the game against Italy] - the heat was really strong - but I was calm.
"Then the goal [from Godin] arrived and we are very happy. Now we will celebrate and think of our next opponent."
Having finished second to surprise package Costa Rica, Uruguay will face one of Greece, Cote d'Ivoire or Japan in the last 16.
meh 3rd time
Hodgson upbeat after Costa Rica stalemate
England coach Roy Hodgson drew many positives after a goalless draw with Costa Rica concluded his team’s dismal World Cup campaign.
Costa Rica had already secured progress to the knockout stages thanks to shock wins over Uruguay and Italy - while England knew progress was impossible having fallen to 2-1 defeats to both aforementioned sides.
As a result, the game was a largely forgettable encounter, though Hodgson felt his much-changed starting XI - including the likes of Luke Shaw and Ross Barkley - played well enough to earn a "comfortable victory."
"We showed today what a good team we can be," he told ITV.
"I'm so disappointed not to finish with a victory but I don't think I could have asked for a much better performance.
"Apart from the first 10 or 12 minutes of the game I thought we dominated it totally, but unfortunately we didn't take our goal chances.
"Had we taken them, it would have been a comfortable victory."
Daniel Sturridge was the chief culprit when it came to chances spurned as the majority of England's openings fell to the Liverpool striker.
Only a wasteful shot wide following a slick 65th-minute one-two with Wilshere stood as a particularly glaring miss, however, and Hodgson declared himself satisfied with England's creative play.
"We created the chances, that’s important, and normally Daniel is so clinical," he said. "I'm not that concerned, I know he will take the golden chances in the future.
"The important thing is to keep giving him the opportunities.
"I've got to say that today we were really unlucky not to win this game and I'm pleased that, at least, we've given the fans something to cheer about in terms of our performance."
Defensive shortcomings undermined England in the decisive 2-1 losses to Italy and Uruguay and Hodgson was pleased to see a new-look backline featuring Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Luke Shaw help recalled goalkeeper Ben Foster to a clean sheet.
"I thought they all did very well," he added. "I thought the whole back four was absolutely excellent.
"We restricted the team that's beaten Italy and Uruguay and topped the group to almost no chances and Foster was very good behind.
"In midfield we outplayed them in that area, created more chances but we didn't unfortunately manage to take them and that’s a great disappointment."
England coach Roy Hodgson drew many positives after a goalless draw with Costa Rica concluded his team’s dismal World Cup campaign.
Costa Rica had already secured progress to the knockout stages thanks to shock wins over Uruguay and Italy - while England knew progress was impossible having fallen to 2-1 defeats to both aforementioned sides.
As a result, the game was a largely forgettable encounter, though Hodgson felt his much-changed starting XI - including the likes of Luke Shaw and Ross Barkley - played well enough to earn a "comfortable victory."
"We showed today what a good team we can be," he told ITV.
"I'm so disappointed not to finish with a victory but I don't think I could have asked for a much better performance.
"Apart from the first 10 or 12 minutes of the game I thought we dominated it totally, but unfortunately we didn't take our goal chances.
"Had we taken them, it would have been a comfortable victory."
Daniel Sturridge was the chief culprit when it came to chances spurned as the majority of England's openings fell to the Liverpool striker.
Only a wasteful shot wide following a slick 65th-minute one-two with Wilshere stood as a particularly glaring miss, however, and Hodgson declared himself satisfied with England's creative play.
"We created the chances, that’s important, and normally Daniel is so clinical," he said. "I'm not that concerned, I know he will take the golden chances in the future.
"The important thing is to keep giving him the opportunities.
"I've got to say that today we were really unlucky not to win this game and I'm pleased that, at least, we've given the fans something to cheer about in terms of our performance."
Defensive shortcomings undermined England in the decisive 2-1 losses to Italy and Uruguay and Hodgson was pleased to see a new-look backline featuring Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Luke Shaw help recalled goalkeeper Ben Foster to a clean sheet.
"I thought they all did very well," he added. "I thought the whole back four was absolutely excellent.
"We restricted the team that's beaten Italy and Uruguay and topped the group to almost no chances and Foster was very good behind.
"In midfield we outplayed them in that area, created more chances but we didn't unfortunately manage to take them and that’s a great disappointment."
Prandelli submits resignation from Italy post
Cesare Prandelli has submitted his resignation from his post as Italy coach following his side's elimination from the World Cup.
The former Fiorentina boss signed a two-year extension immediately prior to the tournament but could not prevent a 10-man Azzurri side crashing out at the group stage of a second successive World Cup, following the dismissal of Claudio Marchisio for a high tackle on Egidio Arevalo Rios.
"I never wanted to hear that I was stealing the money of Italian tax payers," he told reporters as he announced his decision at a post-match press conference.
"There was no need for a red card in the game but it changed everything. My resignation is irrevocable too."
But Giancarlo Abete, head of the Italian Football Federation, has also submitted his resignation and has confirmed he has asked Prandelli to reconsider his decision.
"I will go to the board and offer my irrevocable resignation too," Abete confirmed. "I had already made this decision before the World Cup.
"The new President of the Federation will have my complete support. I'm disappointed as a fan but we gave it our all.
"Prandelli has offered his resignation. When we get back, I will call a meeting with the Federation and hope he will withdraw it."
Cesare Prandelli has submitted his resignation from his post as Italy coach following his side's elimination from the World Cup.
The former Fiorentina boss signed a two-year extension immediately prior to the tournament but could not prevent a 10-man Azzurri side crashing out at the group stage of a second successive World Cup, following the dismissal of Claudio Marchisio for a high tackle on Egidio Arevalo Rios.
"I never wanted to hear that I was stealing the money of Italian tax payers," he told reporters as he announced his decision at a post-match press conference.
"There was no need for a red card in the game but it changed everything. My resignation is irrevocable too."
But Giancarlo Abete, head of the Italian Football Federation, has also submitted his resignation and has confirmed he has asked Prandelli to reconsider his decision.
"I will go to the board and offer my irrevocable resignation too," Abete confirmed. "I had already made this decision before the World Cup.
"The new President of the Federation will have my complete support. I'm disappointed as a fan but we gave it our all.
"Prandelli has offered his resignation. When we get back, I will call a meeting with the Federation and hope he will withdraw it."
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