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Schweinsteiger fears Neymar injury could unite Brazil
Germany midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger fears that the absence of Neymar will make Brazil more united ahead of their World Cup semi-final on Tuesday.
The Barcelona forward will miss the rest of the tournament after sustaining a fractured vertebra in Friday's quarter-final against Colombia.
Neymar has been the host nation's most influential player, scoring four goals, and much has been made of their reliance on the mercurial 22-year-old.
Schweinsteiger spoke of his regret that he will not line up against Neymar in a mouth-watering semi-final clash at the Estadio Mineirao, but knows his injury could make Brazil even more determined to lift the trophy on home soil.
"We're all sad that Neymar can't play, it's always better when the opponent has all their best players on the pitch," he told reporters.
"It'll bring the Brazil team together and they'll want to win the title for him."They have two coaches in Luiz Felipe Scolari and Carlos Alberto Parreira who have won the title already, they have the home advantage and players with individual class.
"Their coaches have a lot of experience of this kind of situation. It's an honour and a challenge to play against the hosts, but it would have been better to play Brazil in the final.
"It doesn't matter how much experience you have, to play the hosts in this football-crazy country - I mean that in a positive sense - is something special."Schweinsteiger believes Germany have raised the bar since being beaten by Spain in the semi-final of the World Cup in South Africa four years ago, as they attempt to become crowned champions for the first time since 1990.
"The team is once again a step further. Every single player has evolved. The number of good players has also increased," he added.And the Bayern Munich man is also confident this will not be his last chance to win the World Cup.
"I'm 29 and can imagine still being at the World Cup in 2018."
Germany midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger fears that the absence of Neymar will make Brazil more united ahead of their World Cup semi-final on Tuesday.
The Barcelona forward will miss the rest of the tournament after sustaining a fractured vertebra in Friday's quarter-final against Colombia.
Neymar has been the host nation's most influential player, scoring four goals, and much has been made of their reliance on the mercurial 22-year-old.
Schweinsteiger spoke of his regret that he will not line up against Neymar in a mouth-watering semi-final clash at the Estadio Mineirao, but knows his injury could make Brazil even more determined to lift the trophy on home soil.
"We're all sad that Neymar can't play, it's always better when the opponent has all their best players on the pitch," he told reporters.
"It'll bring the Brazil team together and they'll want to win the title for him."They have two coaches in Luiz Felipe Scolari and Carlos Alberto Parreira who have won the title already, they have the home advantage and players with individual class.
"Their coaches have a lot of experience of this kind of situation. It's an honour and a challenge to play against the hosts, but it would have been better to play Brazil in the final.
"It doesn't matter how much experience you have, to play the hosts in this football-crazy country - I mean that in a positive sense - is something special."Schweinsteiger believes Germany have raised the bar since being beaten by Spain in the semi-final of the World Cup in South Africa four years ago, as they attempt to become crowned champions for the first time since 1990.
"The team is once again a step further. Every single player has evolved. The number of good players has also increased," he added.And the Bayern Munich man is also confident this will not be his last chance to win the World Cup.
"I'm 29 and can imagine still being at the World Cup in 2018."
No Liverpool contact over Huntelaar, insist Schalke
Schalke general manager Horst Heldt says the club have not been in contact with Liverpool over a potential move for Klaas-Jan Huntelaar.
The Netherlands international has recently been linked with a switch to Anfield as the Merseyside club line up potential replacements for Luis Suarez, with the Reds currently holding talks with Barcelona over the sale of the striker.
Huntelaar has been coy on the speculation and Heldt insists Schalke have no plans to part company with a player who has scored 59 goals in 100 Bundesliga appearances for the club.
"Most recently, I've read that Liverpool are interested in Klaas-Jan Huntelaar," he told the club's official website.
"Liverpool, Klaas-Jan and also his adviser have not contacted us.
"And we also have no interest in selling the player."
Huntelaar has confirmed he is talks with Schalke over an extension to his contract, but is not keen to continue discussions during the World Cup, with Netherlands reaching the semi-final on Saturday.
Schalke general manager Horst Heldt says the club have not been in contact with Liverpool over a potential move for Klaas-Jan Huntelaar.
The Netherlands international has recently been linked with a switch to Anfield as the Merseyside club line up potential replacements for Luis Suarez, with the Reds currently holding talks with Barcelona over the sale of the striker.
Huntelaar has been coy on the speculation and Heldt insists Schalke have no plans to part company with a player who has scored 59 goals in 100 Bundesliga appearances for the club.
"Most recently, I've read that Liverpool are interested in Klaas-Jan Huntelaar," he told the club's official website.
"Liverpool, Klaas-Jan and also his adviser have not contacted us.
"And we also have no interest in selling the player."
Huntelaar has confirmed he is talks with Schalke over an extension to his contract, but is not keen to continue discussions during the World Cup, with Netherlands reaching the semi-final on Saturday.
Neuer the world's best goalkeeper, says Kahn
Germany legend Oliver Kahn believes that Manuel Neuer has shown that he is the best goalkeeper in the game during the World Cup.
The Bayern Munich No.1 has kept three clean sheets from his five games thus far as Germany have made sound progress to the semi-finals.
His sweeper-keeper antics have caught the eye throughout the tournament, while he has also made several key saves and Kahn is impressed with his compatriots feats.
"He has proven at this World Cup that he is currently the world's best goalkeeper," he said.
"Everyone knows that he is a wonderful footballer who can really play well. But what is crucial is that in important situations, he can rescue the victory.
"That is ultimately what he will be measured by."
Joachim Low's men take on hosts Brazil in the last four of the tournament on Tuesday.
Germany legend Oliver Kahn believes that Manuel Neuer has shown that he is the best goalkeeper in the game during the World Cup.
The Bayern Munich No.1 has kept three clean sheets from his five games thus far as Germany have made sound progress to the semi-finals.
His sweeper-keeper antics have caught the eye throughout the tournament, while he has also made several key saves and Kahn is impressed with his compatriots feats.
"He has proven at this World Cup that he is currently the world's best goalkeeper," he said.
"Everyone knows that he is a wonderful footballer who can really play well. But what is crucial is that in important situations, he can rescue the victory.
"That is ultimately what he will be measured by."
Joachim Low's men take on hosts Brazil in the last four of the tournament on Tuesday.
Schneiderlin: I don't know if I'll stay at Southampton
Morgan Schneiderlin has held talks with new Southampton boss Ronald Koeman but is unsure if he will remain at the Premier League club.
England trio Luke Shaw, Adam Lallana and Rickie Lambert have left the south-coast outfit ahead of the 2014-15 season and the France international midfielder has also been linked with a move.
Schneiderlin revealed that he has been in contact with Koeman, but gave no public assurances that he will not join the St Mary's Stadium exodus, having already told the club in private that he wants to leave.
"[Koeman] called me about a week ago, but what was said will stay between us," he told reporters.
"He wants me to stay and we'll see. I don't know yet. I still have three years [on my] contract at Southampton. Nothing has happened, I am going to relax and go on holiday and we will see.
"We have a lot of money coming in to the club and now it is up to the board to spend this money.
"I have seen how many players left the club. It is the club's choice and I have nothing to say about their choice."
Southampton defender Dejan Lovren's future is also in doubt, with Liverpool said to be keen to sign the Croatia international after taking Lallana and Lambert to Anfield.
Morgan Schneiderlin has held talks with new Southampton boss Ronald Koeman but is unsure if he will remain at the Premier League club.
England trio Luke Shaw, Adam Lallana and Rickie Lambert have left the south-coast outfit ahead of the 2014-15 season and the France international midfielder has also been linked with a move.
Schneiderlin revealed that he has been in contact with Koeman, but gave no public assurances that he will not join the St Mary's Stadium exodus, having already told the club in private that he wants to leave.
"[Koeman] called me about a week ago, but what was said will stay between us," he told reporters.
"He wants me to stay and we'll see. I don't know yet. I still have three years [on my] contract at Southampton. Nothing has happened, I am going to relax and go on holiday and we will see.
"We have a lot of money coming in to the club and now it is up to the board to spend this money.
"I have seen how many players left the club. It is the club's choice and I have nothing to say about their choice."
Southampton defender Dejan Lovren's future is also in doubt, with Liverpool said to be keen to sign the Croatia international after taking Lallana and Lambert to Anfield.
Ribery: I'm still not fully fit
Bayern Munich and France winger Franck Ribery has revealed that he still has some work to do before he returns to full fitness.
The 31-year-old was forced to sit out the World Cup because of a troublesome back problem he picked up in training shortly before the tournament.
However, the forward is hoping he will be back to his best by the time the new season starts, even though he is still not in peak condition.
"I'm fine, really good," he told Kicker.
"I just need a little time to prepare my body for the new season. Everything is good."
Ribery's compatriots were eliminated from the World Cup by Germany at the quarter-final stage but Ribery believes there is no shame in losing to Joachim Low's side.
"It's a shame France are out," he added. "It was a very tight match. But Germany also have a great team."
Bayern Munich and France winger Franck Ribery has revealed that he still has some work to do before he returns to full fitness.
The 31-year-old was forced to sit out the World Cup because of a troublesome back problem he picked up in training shortly before the tournament.
However, the forward is hoping he will be back to his best by the time the new season starts, even though he is still not in peak condition.
"I'm fine, really good," he told Kicker.
"I just need a little time to prepare my body for the new season. Everything is good."
Ribery's compatriots were eliminated from the World Cup by Germany at the quarter-final stage but Ribery believes there is no shame in losing to Joachim Low's side.
"It's a shame France are out," he added. "It was a very tight match. But Germany also have a great team."
'Stopping Messi? What about Robben?' - Kluivert
Patrick Kluivert believes that Arjen Robben can do as much damage to Argentina as Lionel Messi can to his own Netherlands team.
The Bayern Munich winger has been one of the stars of the tournament, along with the Barcelona forward, and the two will meet in Wedensday's semi-final.
Kluivert, part of Louis van Gaal's coaching team, believes the last-four encounter will be evenly matched as both teams have star quality in their ranks.
"The quality of Argentina is awesome. It will be very hard for us and for them," he told AS.
"Argentina have major individual players. Both teams have players who can decide a game. Stopping Messi? How do Argentina stop Robben?"
Kluivert is also prepared for some fatigue to creep into his players after they were made to beat Costa Rica in the quarter-finals via a penalty shoot-out, but feels his players will be up to the task.
"There will be tiredness for sure, but the same goes for Argentina. We have time to get our fitness. We won't be too tired because we have four days to rest and four days is a lot."
Patrick Kluivert believes that Arjen Robben can do as much damage to Argentina as Lionel Messi can to his own Netherlands team.
The Bayern Munich winger has been one of the stars of the tournament, along with the Barcelona forward, and the two will meet in Wedensday's semi-final.
Kluivert, part of Louis van Gaal's coaching team, believes the last-four encounter will be evenly matched as both teams have star quality in their ranks.
"The quality of Argentina is awesome. It will be very hard for us and for them," he told AS.
"Argentina have major individual players. Both teams have players who can decide a game. Stopping Messi? How do Argentina stop Robben?"
Kluivert is also prepared for some fatigue to creep into his players after they were made to beat Costa Rica in the quarter-finals via a penalty shoot-out, but feels his players will be up to the task.
"There will be tiredness for sure, but the same goes for Argentina. We have time to get our fitness. We won't be too tired because we have four days to rest and four days is a lot."
Podolski frustrated by Koln's broken promise
Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski has been left frustrated after former club Koln broke a promise to temporarily retire his old No.10 shirt.
The Germany international's boyhood team, where he rose through the ranks and played either side of a transfer to Bayern Munich, had told him when he left for Arsenal in 2012 that nobody else would wear his number as long as he continued to play professionally.
But striker Patrick Helmes was assigned the shirt on Friday and Podolski’s agent, Nassim Touhiri, expressed his consternation.
He told Express: "Lukas was informed about it right in the middle of his preparations for the World Cup quarter-finals. We are surprised, to say the least, that this promise has been broken - and in such an impersonal manner.
"It is a strange decision but Lukas's attitude towards Koln will not change despite this empty promise."
Koln president Werner Spinner admits that the club had gone against their word but stressed that he had to consider the club as a whole rather than one player.
"We gave Lukas our word," he conceded. "But I wrote him a letter asking for his understanding.
"If the sporting directors, big parts of the team and a large part of our fans have this wish [for Helmes to wear No.10], I will submit to it. I always think about the whole club and not individuals."
Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski has been left frustrated after former club Koln broke a promise to temporarily retire his old No.10 shirt.
The Germany international's boyhood team, where he rose through the ranks and played either side of a transfer to Bayern Munich, had told him when he left for Arsenal in 2012 that nobody else would wear his number as long as he continued to play professionally.
But striker Patrick Helmes was assigned the shirt on Friday and Podolski’s agent, Nassim Touhiri, expressed his consternation.
He told Express: "Lukas was informed about it right in the middle of his preparations for the World Cup quarter-finals. We are surprised, to say the least, that this promise has been broken - and in such an impersonal manner.
"It is a strange decision but Lukas's attitude towards Koln will not change despite this empty promise."
Koln president Werner Spinner admits that the club had gone against their word but stressed that he had to consider the club as a whole rather than one player.
"We gave Lukas our word," he conceded. "But I wrote him a letter asking for his understanding.
"If the sporting directors, big parts of the team and a large part of our fans have this wish [for Helmes to wear No.10], I will submit to it. I always think about the whole club and not individuals."
Di Stefano in 'serious but stable' condition
Real Madrid icon Alfredo Di Stefano is in "serious but stable condition" after suffering a heart attack, according to doctors at the Gregorio Maranon hospital in Madrid.
The 88-year-old was admitted to hospital on Saturday after taking ill while eating in a restaurant near Real's Santiago Bernabeu and has been placed into intensive care.
Di Stefano has a history of heart trouble and underwent surgery for a quadruple heart bypass in 2006 and, according to the emergency services, his latest arrest lasted 18 minutes.
Doctors Emilio del Valle Hernandez and Francisco Fernandez Aviles said in a report on Sunday that his condition is still serious.
"The patient Alfredo Di Stefano remains in the Coronary Unit of the Cardiology Department," the report said. "Although it appears to be a severe cardiopathy, the patient remains in a serious but stable condition."
Real president Florentino Perez reportedly visited the 88-year-old later.
Argentina-born forward Di Stefano represented both his native country and Spain at international level and is widely regarded as one of the finest footballers of all time.During an 11-year spell with Real spanning from 1953 to 1964, he won eight La Liga titles, five European Cups and was named European Footballer of the Year in 1957 and 1959.
He scored 308 times in 396 competitive appearances for the European champions.
Real Madrid icon Alfredo Di Stefano is in "serious but stable condition" after suffering a heart attack, according to doctors at the Gregorio Maranon hospital in Madrid.
The 88-year-old was admitted to hospital on Saturday after taking ill while eating in a restaurant near Real's Santiago Bernabeu and has been placed into intensive care.
Di Stefano has a history of heart trouble and underwent surgery for a quadruple heart bypass in 2006 and, according to the emergency services, his latest arrest lasted 18 minutes.
Doctors Emilio del Valle Hernandez and Francisco Fernandez Aviles said in a report on Sunday that his condition is still serious.
"The patient Alfredo Di Stefano remains in the Coronary Unit of the Cardiology Department," the report said. "Although it appears to be a severe cardiopathy, the patient remains in a serious but stable condition."
Real president Florentino Perez reportedly visited the 88-year-old later.
Argentina-born forward Di Stefano represented both his native country and Spain at international level and is widely regarded as one of the finest footballers of all time.During an 11-year spell with Real spanning from 1953 to 1964, he won eight La Liga titles, five European Cups and was named European Footballer of the Year in 1957 and 1959.
He scored 308 times in 396 competitive appearances for the European champions.
'My head is already at Liverpool,' says Lovren
Southampton defender Dejan Lovren says his "head is already at Liverpool" after revealing his frustration at not being sold to the Reds.
Having already signed Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana from the Saints this summer, Brendan Rodgers's side made a £20 million bid for the centre-back just a year after he joined the club from Lille and the Croatian is aghast that it was not accepted.
Lovren, also a target for Arsenal - now believes that he has "no business staying at Southampton", despite the south-coast side telling the Reds that he is not for sale.
"Liverpool sent the offer and the club haven't informed me," he told Sportske Novosti, "not even about the subsequent Liverpool bids. That wasn't right.
"I found out about the bid from other people which disappointed me and I realised I've got no business staying at Southampton.
"Liverpool sent a £20 million offer and [Southampton] paid £9m for me so they would've earned twice the amount.
"At this point, I don't know what I'll do and I don't like it. It was unbelievable that a few days ago I had an offer of £20m. It was in the morning and by the afternoon the club had said I was not for sale. Frankly, my head is already at Liverpool."
Lovren is furious at what he sees as a giving-up of the Saints' lofty Champions League ambitions, with manager Mauricio Pochettino allowed to leave for Tottenham and the club's stars sold.
"Look, I'd gladly stay in Southampton if the club had any ambitions, if they kept the key players," he continued. "Not even the Liverpool bid would have dissuaded me [in that case].
"When I decided to go to Southampton, many people were surprised but I went because the people at the club had great ambition. They gave me assurances about the project - the former chairman, Nicola Cortese, and Pochettino convinced me. They gave me incredible confidence.
"When I began training there, I realised they had a very good team. They promised to buy two more players - they bought [Dani] Osvaldo and [Victor] Wanyama. They are great players. The aim was to qualify for Europe, to get into the Europa League at least.
But he added of Cortese's departure as chief executive in January: "No-one knew who would take over the club. Suspicions were raised.
"I asked Mauricio what was happening and he couldn't say whether or not he would stay on or make promises for the next five or six years about investment in the club, challenging for the Champions League, making new signings or keeping key players.
"It was because of that I'd agreed to sign for Southampton. When the chairman left and Pochettino was going too - as early as April - I realised things had fallen apart."
Lovren says that playing at Anfield last season - where he scored the only goal in a Southampton victory - first attracted him to the Reds, from whom he says Saints want £25m.
"Liverpool is one of the biggest clubs in the world," the defender enthused. "Only Real Madrid have as many fans around the world. The last time I played at Anfield, I got chills when I heard 'You'll Never Walk Alone'. I would like to listen to it all the time.
"[Southampton] are now looking for £25m but I don't think they'll get it."
Southampton defender Dejan Lovren says his "head is already at Liverpool" after revealing his frustration at not being sold to the Reds.
Having already signed Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana from the Saints this summer, Brendan Rodgers's side made a £20 million bid for the centre-back just a year after he joined the club from Lille and the Croatian is aghast that it was not accepted.
Lovren, also a target for Arsenal - now believes that he has "no business staying at Southampton", despite the south-coast side telling the Reds that he is not for sale.
"Liverpool sent the offer and the club haven't informed me," he told Sportske Novosti, "not even about the subsequent Liverpool bids. That wasn't right.
"I found out about the bid from other people which disappointed me and I realised I've got no business staying at Southampton.
"Liverpool sent a £20 million offer and [Southampton] paid £9m for me so they would've earned twice the amount.
"At this point, I don't know what I'll do and I don't like it. It was unbelievable that a few days ago I had an offer of £20m. It was in the morning and by the afternoon the club had said I was not for sale. Frankly, my head is already at Liverpool."
Lovren is furious at what he sees as a giving-up of the Saints' lofty Champions League ambitions, with manager Mauricio Pochettino allowed to leave for Tottenham and the club's stars sold.
"Look, I'd gladly stay in Southampton if the club had any ambitions, if they kept the key players," he continued. "Not even the Liverpool bid would have dissuaded me [in that case].
"When I decided to go to Southampton, many people were surprised but I went because the people at the club had great ambition. They gave me assurances about the project - the former chairman, Nicola Cortese, and Pochettino convinced me. They gave me incredible confidence.
"When I began training there, I realised they had a very good team. They promised to buy two more players - they bought [Dani] Osvaldo and [Victor] Wanyama. They are great players. The aim was to qualify for Europe, to get into the Europa League at least.
But he added of Cortese's departure as chief executive in January: "No-one knew who would take over the club. Suspicions were raised.
"I asked Mauricio what was happening and he couldn't say whether or not he would stay on or make promises for the next five or six years about investment in the club, challenging for the Champions League, making new signings or keeping key players.
"It was because of that I'd agreed to sign for Southampton. When the chairman left and Pochettino was going too - as early as April - I realised things had fallen apart."
Lovren says that playing at Anfield last season - where he scored the only goal in a Southampton victory - first attracted him to the Reds, from whom he says Saints want £25m.
"Liverpool is one of the biggest clubs in the world," the defender enthused. "Only Real Madrid have as many fans around the world. The last time I played at Anfield, I got chills when I heard 'You'll Never Walk Alone'. I would like to listen to it all the time.
"[Southampton] are now looking for £25m but I don't think they'll get it."
Masterful Van Gaal is coach of the World Cup
If anyone at Manchester United harboured concerns that Louis van Gaal’s approach to management might have become dated and irrelevant, the legendary coach has answered those questions emphatically during the World Cup.
The Netherlands arrived in Brazil with everyone telling them that they would be lucky to reach the knockout stages from a group that included world champions Spain and a highly-rated Chile side.
But they have outlasted their Group B rivals and are now one game away from the World Cup final following their victory on penalties over Costa Rica in Salvador on Saturday.
Next, Lionel Messi and Argentina await for the Dutch – and you can be sure Van Gaal will have a plan to lead Holland to the final of the tournament for a second time in a succession.
He always does and he showed it again with the masterstroke in bringing on Tim Krul as a substitute in the dying moments of extra-time against Costa Rica. The Newcastle goalkeeper was Holland’s hero as he saved two penalties to ensure his team’s place in the final four.
It was a bold and brave move by Van Gaal - described as "idiocy" by former Bayern Munich goalkeeper Oliver Kahn on German TV station ZDF - but another big decision that the 62-year-old got spot on in Brazil and provided a glimpse into his level of preparation.
Van Gaal has been the best coach in the tournament and made a mockery of suggestions he might have taken his eye off the ball in the build-up after agreeing to take over at Old Trafford.
While Jorge Sampaoli’s Chile played some lovely football and Jorge Luis Pinto ensured a romantic story for Costa Rica, Van Gaal has outshone them to prove why he is considered a coaching legend.
Van Gaal has taken a squad lacking depth and written off before the tournament to the last four, scoring 12 goals in the process – the most of any team – and conceding just three times.
Van Gaal has admitted himself that, 40 years after the Dutch gave us total football, he has had to compromise some of his aesthetic ideals in favour of a more pragmatic approach to winning football matches.
This is an older, wiser Van Gaal than the man usually cast as stubborn, argumentative and arrogant.
"We're not a great team, but a team which is difficult to beat,” was Van Gaal’s assessment of his side in the build-up to the Costa Rica match.
The shift in thinking probably came on the back of the knee injury sustained to key midfielder Kevin Strootman in March that ruled him out of the World Cup. And while European rivals such as Spain, Italy and England were sent home early, Van Gaal has found a way to get the job done.
His team have been well-drilled, organised and built on a solid foundation. Whether in a 4-3-3 or 5-3-2, the two formations Holland have used in the tournament, every player knows their role.
He has managed to get the best out of average players like Ron Vlaar to create the base to release his stellar names in attack, where Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder have scored seven goals between them.
When he has needed to make big decisions, Van Gaal has made the right call.
He did it when he brought on Krul for Jasper Cillessen against Costa Rica.
He did it in the last 16 against Mexico when he replaced his captain and star striker Van Persie with Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, who went on to strike the winner from the penalty spot.
Elsewhere, Dirk Kuyt has been deployed as a full-back for the first time in his career and Memphis Depay has scored two goals as a substitute.
Van Gaal has proved that he has an unmatched foresight when standing on the touchline.
That Mexico victory, when they came back from 1-0 down in the 88th minute, highlighted the winning mentality that Van Gaal has drilled into the side as a coach who has won seven league titles in three countries as well as a Champions League crown.
Holland have also found themselves a goal down on three occasions, but come back to win each time. Their progress past Costa Rica was down to the country’s second shootout victory in their history.
Past Netherlands teams have been known for their dressing room discord – and Van Gaal is no stranger to fall-outs himself – but he has taken a side embarrassed at Euro 2012 to the World Cup semis.
He has also done it on the back of an unbeaten qualifying campaign that saw them book a World Cup place before any other European team.
The atmosphere around the Holland training base in Gavea, Rio de Janeiro, has been relaxed and friendly throughout. Fans have been allowed in to watch sessions while players have enjoyed kickabouts with their children.
Van Gaal has appeared anything but the divisive figure often portrayed, with every player speaking glowingly about a coach whose relationship with the squad was summed up by his touchline celebrations with Van Persie after the striker’s second goal in the 5-1 thrashing of Spain.
“Yes, we have a very strong bond. It has been good since day one,” Van Persie said last week. “He has that [a good relationship] with almost all of his players. Everyone respects him, everyone believes in him.”
And on the basis of the World Cup, Manchester United fans should also believe that the Dutchman will bring an instant return to better days.
Barcelona accept Arsenal's €40m offer for Alexis
Barcelona have accepted a bid of €40 million from Arsenal for Alexis Sanchez, Goal understands.
The Gunners will now try to wrap up the transfer of the in-demand forward with further talks in the next 48 hours aimed at convincing the player to choose a move to Emirates Stadium ahead of his other suitors.
Sources have told Goal that the financial package offered to Alexis has been agreed in principle by the player and his representatives.
Arsenal will attempt to clinch the signing by obtaining an official agreement from the Chile World Cup star, with the possibility growing that a deal could be finalised in the coming week.
The indications from the player's camp during negotiations are that he wants to move to Arsenal ahead of Manchester United, Liverpool and Juventus, who have all tabled offers to the Chilean.
The timing of the deal could depend upon Barcelona's pursuit of Luis Suarez, with the Catalan club unlikely to formally sanction for the 25-year-old departure until they have finalised the signing of the Liverpool forward, who is set to cost just over €88m.
As revealed earlier in the week, the north Londoners' bid €40m for the former Udinese star after Arsene Wenger made him his priority forward target this summer.
Barcelona have accepted the offer, which matches their valuation, and agreed the structure of payments proposed by Arsenal.
Wenger has been busy attempting to convince Alexis, whose World Cup ended a week ago when Chile were eliminated on penalties by Brazil, that he should choose Arsenal ahead of the rival clubs competing for his signature.
Barca's sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta admitted last Tuesday that the Spanish giants are willing to cash in on the 25-year-old, who has been hotly pursued after a series of outstanding World Cup displays and a season in which his 21 goals were bettered at his club only by Lionel Messi.
It was reported in May that Arsenal had sent a delegation to Madrid to hold talks with a mystery forward, who is understood to have been Alexis.
Wenger and his scouts believe the forward has the attributes to be developed into a centre-forward at Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners' top priority this summer is to clinch the signing of an elite forward who can provide competition next season for Olivier Giroud, the only senior striker at the club.
Barcelona have accepted a bid of €40 million from Arsenal for Alexis Sanchez, Goal understands.
The Gunners will now try to wrap up the transfer of the in-demand forward with further talks in the next 48 hours aimed at convincing the player to choose a move to Emirates Stadium ahead of his other suitors.
Sources have told Goal that the financial package offered to Alexis has been agreed in principle by the player and his representatives.
Arsenal will attempt to clinch the signing by obtaining an official agreement from the Chile World Cup star, with the possibility growing that a deal could be finalised in the coming week.
The indications from the player's camp during negotiations are that he wants to move to Arsenal ahead of Manchester United, Liverpool and Juventus, who have all tabled offers to the Chilean.
The timing of the deal could depend upon Barcelona's pursuit of Luis Suarez, with the Catalan club unlikely to formally sanction for the 25-year-old departure until they have finalised the signing of the Liverpool forward, who is set to cost just over €88m.
As revealed earlier in the week, the north Londoners' bid €40m for the former Udinese star after Arsene Wenger made him his priority forward target this summer.
Barcelona have accepted the offer, which matches their valuation, and agreed the structure of payments proposed by Arsenal.
Wenger has been busy attempting to convince Alexis, whose World Cup ended a week ago when Chile were eliminated on penalties by Brazil, that he should choose Arsenal ahead of the rival clubs competing for his signature.
Barca's sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta admitted last Tuesday that the Spanish giants are willing to cash in on the 25-year-old, who has been hotly pursued after a series of outstanding World Cup displays and a season in which his 21 goals were bettered at his club only by Lionel Messi.
It was reported in May that Arsenal had sent a delegation to Madrid to hold talks with a mystery forward, who is understood to have been Alexis.
Wenger and his scouts believe the forward has the attributes to be developed into a centre-forward at Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners' top priority this summer is to clinch the signing of an elite forward who can provide competition next season for Olivier Giroud, the only senior striker at the club.
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Caballero to fly in to seal Manchester City move
Manchester City are on the verge of completing the signing of Malaga goalkeeper Willy Caballero, Goal understands.
The Argentine will fly into Manchester in the next 24 hours, having cut short his post-season holiday, to undergo a medical and is expected to sign a three-year deal with the Premier League champions.
Goal understands that City have already agreed a €8 million fee with Malaga for the shot-stopper, who has made over 100 Primera Division appearances for the Spanish side since signing from Elche back in 2011.
City are looking for a goalkeeper to challenge Joe Hart for the No.1 jersey next season, with Costel Pantilimon having left the club to join Sunderland after his contract expired earlier in the summer.
Hart was again called into question for his performances with England at the World Cup, while he was dropped by City boss Manuel Pellegrini during the 2013-14 campaign after a series of high-profile errors.
Caballero, who worked with Pellegrini during his time in charge of Malaga, has developed a reputation as one of the leading goalkeepers in Spain's top flight and was previously linked with Barcelona before the Catalans signed Claudio Bravo from Real Sociedad.
City have already been active in the summer transfer window, with Bacary Sagna having arrived on a free transfer from Arsenal, while defensive midfielder Fernando has also signed and Bruno Zuculini is set to be confirmed within the coming days.
Convincing Yaya Toure to stay is set to be Pellegrini's main objective, however, with the Ivorian set for crunch talks with the club over his future after he suggested that City did not allow him leave to visit his dying brother in hospital.
Manchester City are on the verge of completing the signing of Malaga goalkeeper Willy Caballero, Goal understands.
The Argentine will fly into Manchester in the next 24 hours, having cut short his post-season holiday, to undergo a medical and is expected to sign a three-year deal with the Premier League champions.
Goal understands that City have already agreed a €8 million fee with Malaga for the shot-stopper, who has made over 100 Primera Division appearances for the Spanish side since signing from Elche back in 2011.
City are looking for a goalkeeper to challenge Joe Hart for the No.1 jersey next season, with Costel Pantilimon having left the club to join Sunderland after his contract expired earlier in the summer.
Hart was again called into question for his performances with England at the World Cup, while he was dropped by City boss Manuel Pellegrini during the 2013-14 campaign after a series of high-profile errors.
Caballero, who worked with Pellegrini during his time in charge of Malaga, has developed a reputation as one of the leading goalkeepers in Spain's top flight and was previously linked with Barcelona before the Catalans signed Claudio Bravo from Real Sociedad.
City have already been active in the summer transfer window, with Bacary Sagna having arrived on a free transfer from Arsenal, while defensive midfielder Fernando has also signed and Bruno Zuculini is set to be confirmed within the coming days.
Convincing Yaya Toure to stay is set to be Pellegrini's main objective, however, with the Ivorian set for crunch talks with the club over his future after he suggested that City did not allow him leave to visit his dying brother in hospital.
Cole flies to Italy to complete Roma transfer
Ashley Cole is set to fly to Italy on Monday to finalise a free transfer to Roma, Goal understands.
The former England defender has been offered a two-year contract by the Serie A club which is worth €2.5 million per year net of tax, equivalent to €48,000 per week after taxes.
Sources have told Goal that the deal is agreed in principle and there are only the formalities to be completed, including a medical.
The 33-year-old is a free agent after leaving Chelsea in June following eight trophy-laden seasons at Stamford Bridge.
He was offered a new contract by the Blues on reduced terms and decided to find a new challenge following the end of his international career, which came when he was excluded from England's World Cup squad in May.
Despite interest from a host of clubs at home and abroad, including Liverpool, Tottenham and AC Milan, Cole has settled on Roma, who will compete in next season's Champions League after finishing second in Serie A last season.
His agent, Jonathan Barnett, has admitted Cole has been considering a move abroad although he denied that a destination had been finalised.
Cole is a three-time Premier League champion, twice with Arsenal and once with Chelsea, and also has seven FA Cup winners' medals and won the 2008 League Cup.
He was also part of Chelsea's Champions League winning team in 2012 and went on to win the Europa League a year later.
Ashley Cole is set to fly to Italy on Monday to finalise a free transfer to Roma, Goal understands.
The former England defender has been offered a two-year contract by the Serie A club which is worth €2.5 million per year net of tax, equivalent to €48,000 per week after taxes.
Sources have told Goal that the deal is agreed in principle and there are only the formalities to be completed, including a medical.
The 33-year-old is a free agent after leaving Chelsea in June following eight trophy-laden seasons at Stamford Bridge.
He was offered a new contract by the Blues on reduced terms and decided to find a new challenge following the end of his international career, which came when he was excluded from England's World Cup squad in May.
Despite interest from a host of clubs at home and abroad, including Liverpool, Tottenham and AC Milan, Cole has settled on Roma, who will compete in next season's Champions League after finishing second in Serie A last season.
His agent, Jonathan Barnett, has admitted Cole has been considering a move abroad although he denied that a destination had been finalised.
Cole is a three-time Premier League champion, twice with Arsenal and once with Chelsea, and also has seven FA Cup winners' medals and won the 2008 League Cup.
He was also part of Chelsea's Champions League winning team in 2012 and went on to win the Europa League a year later.
Klopp praises Hummels' World Cup performances
Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp has praised the performances of Die Borussen's Mats Hummels for Germany at this summer's World Cup.
Hummels has been a key figure in the Germany backline throughout the tournament, and the defender was particularly impressive in the 1-0 quarter-final win over France on Friday.
After putting his team in front with a well-placed 12th-minute header - his second goal of the finals - Hummels was a rock at the back, continually neutralising the threat of Karim Benzema and the rest of the France team.
Klopp, who works with Hummels on a day-to-day basis at Dortmund, was full of praise for the 25-year-old.
"Mats Hummels' performance was extraordinary," he told Sportal. "Not only against France, [but in] the whole World Cup."He is one of the best German players along with Manuel Neuer and Thomas Muller, in terms of [keeping team] shape and [in his] performance."We are very proud of that. We already knew it, now everybody has seen his outstanding ability.
"His goal was excellent and important, like his first goal against Portugal. Perfect."
Germany's victory set up a semi-final with hosts Brazil on Tuesday, and Klopp knows Joachim Low's men are in for a tough test, despite the absences of Neymar and Thiago Silva.
"There is a good chance for Germany, independent of the terrible story of Neymar's injury," he said."Thiago Silva is banned but there will be good alternatives. So it will be an open game.
"Brazil are the home favourites and it is even more difficult for Germany. But they are more consistent in this tournament. So there is a good chance for Germany."
Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp has praised the performances of Die Borussen's Mats Hummels for Germany at this summer's World Cup.
Hummels has been a key figure in the Germany backline throughout the tournament, and the defender was particularly impressive in the 1-0 quarter-final win over France on Friday.
After putting his team in front with a well-placed 12th-minute header - his second goal of the finals - Hummels was a rock at the back, continually neutralising the threat of Karim Benzema and the rest of the France team.
Klopp, who works with Hummels on a day-to-day basis at Dortmund, was full of praise for the 25-year-old.
"Mats Hummels' performance was extraordinary," he told Sportal. "Not only against France, [but in] the whole World Cup."He is one of the best German players along with Manuel Neuer and Thomas Muller, in terms of [keeping team] shape and [in his] performance."We are very proud of that. We already knew it, now everybody has seen his outstanding ability.
"His goal was excellent and important, like his first goal against Portugal. Perfect."
Germany's victory set up a semi-final with hosts Brazil on Tuesday, and Klopp knows Joachim Low's men are in for a tough test, despite the absences of Neymar and Thiago Silva.
"There is a good chance for Germany, independent of the terrible story of Neymar's injury," he said."Thiago Silva is banned but there will be good alternatives. So it will be an open game.
"Brazil are the home favourites and it is even more difficult for Germany. But they are more consistent in this tournament. So there is a good chance for Germany."
Official: Di Maria out for Argentina semi-final
Angel Di Maria will definitely miss Argentina's World Cup semi-final against Netherlands, according to the national team's doctor, but he revealed that Sergio Aguero could return to action as he progresses to full fitness.
Di Maria, 26, only made it through 33 minutes of the Albiceleste's quarter-final with Belgium, which they ultimately won 1-0.
After the match, his agent Eugenio Lopez suggested the Real Madrid man had torn his thigh muscle and would not recover in time to feature in the final if they are able to beat Netherlands in the last four.
The attacker has undergone medical tests on Sunday and is reported to be desperate to be fit should Alejandro Sabella's men get past the Dutch to play against Brazil or Germany at the Maracana on June 13.
Daniel Martinez, Argentina's team doctor, gave a more optimistic outlook towards Di Maria's injury than the player's agent had originally given, but admitted there would be no chance of him recovering to face Netherlands.
"It's not a serious injury," he told reporters on Sunday. "We have the best doctors looking after his recovery.
"Obviously he will not play against Netherlands and, after the match, we will study day-by-day. Sometimes, one day of recovery for an injury is a lot."
Di Maria has been an ever-present in Sabella's starting line-up in Brazil and scored the winning goal in extra-time against Switzerland in the last-16.
Martinez gave better news regarding Aguero, who has struggled with injury throughout the World Cup, by revealing he should be fit to feature against Louis van Gaal's men on Wednesday.
"He's done three team training sessions now and we hope that continues with his recovery," he added. "He's ready to play."
Angel Di Maria will definitely miss Argentina's World Cup semi-final against Netherlands, according to the national team's doctor, but he revealed that Sergio Aguero could return to action as he progresses to full fitness.
Di Maria, 26, only made it through 33 minutes of the Albiceleste's quarter-final with Belgium, which they ultimately won 1-0.
After the match, his agent Eugenio Lopez suggested the Real Madrid man had torn his thigh muscle and would not recover in time to feature in the final if they are able to beat Netherlands in the last four.
The attacker has undergone medical tests on Sunday and is reported to be desperate to be fit should Alejandro Sabella's men get past the Dutch to play against Brazil or Germany at the Maracana on June 13.
Daniel Martinez, Argentina's team doctor, gave a more optimistic outlook towards Di Maria's injury than the player's agent had originally given, but admitted there would be no chance of him recovering to face Netherlands.
"It's not a serious injury," he told reporters on Sunday. "We have the best doctors looking after his recovery.
"Obviously he will not play against Netherlands and, after the match, we will study day-by-day. Sometimes, one day of recovery for an injury is a lot."
Di Maria has been an ever-present in Sabella's starting line-up in Brazil and scored the winning goal in extra-time against Switzerland in the last-16.
Martinez gave better news regarding Aguero, who has struggled with injury throughout the World Cup, by revealing he should be fit to feature against Louis van Gaal's men on Wednesday.
"He's done three team training sessions now and we hope that continues with his recovery," he added. "He's ready to play."
Bravo delighted with Barcelona move
Chile goalkeeper Claudio Bravo has spoken of his delight after arriving at Barcelona prior to his official unveiling on Monday.
The Roja skipper was one of his nation's stars of this summer's World Cup in Brazil, with the side exceeding all expectations by progressing to the last 16 at the expense of reigning champions Spain.
The South Americans were then knocked out on penalties by hosts Brazil, though, leaving Bravo free to return to Spain, where he had been plying his trade with Real Sociedad prior to his move to Barca.
"After what I experienced at the World Cup in Brazil, arriving at Barca is an amazing feeling and makes me very happy," he told Barca TV.
"My time at Real Sociedad is a great memory. It allowed me to come to Europe and has opened the door for me to come to Barca. This is the prize for the work of many years.
"I am eager to contribute and help the team. It motivates me a lot to replace departed goalkeepers Victor Valdes and Jose Pinto for the club."
Bravo also talked about the battle for the No.1 spot he will face with Barcelona's other summer goalkeeping signing, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, but he does not sound daunted by the prospect.
"Competition is always good and is best for the team," he continued.
Chile goalkeeper Claudio Bravo has spoken of his delight after arriving at Barcelona prior to his official unveiling on Monday.
The Roja skipper was one of his nation's stars of this summer's World Cup in Brazil, with the side exceeding all expectations by progressing to the last 16 at the expense of reigning champions Spain.
The South Americans were then knocked out on penalties by hosts Brazil, though, leaving Bravo free to return to Spain, where he had been plying his trade with Real Sociedad prior to his move to Barca.
"After what I experienced at the World Cup in Brazil, arriving at Barca is an amazing feeling and makes me very happy," he told Barca TV.
"My time at Real Sociedad is a great memory. It allowed me to come to Europe and has opened the door for me to come to Barca. This is the prize for the work of many years.
"I am eager to contribute and help the team. It motivates me a lot to replace departed goalkeepers Victor Valdes and Jose Pinto for the club."
Bravo also talked about the battle for the No.1 spot he will face with Barcelona's other summer goalkeeping signing, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, but he does not sound daunted by the prospect.
"Competition is always good and is best for the team," he continued.
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