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Anderson takes Ice Bucket Challenge, nominates ex Man United boss Alex Ferguson & Fellaini
Anderson SAF ta Challenge karala thiyenne
mona karaida danne naha...he he
Fellaini Ice Bucket Challenge
Fellaini nominate karanne David Moyes wa
Javier Hernandez ( Chicharito ) Takes On The ALS 'Ice Bucket Challenge!
Chicharito ge Ice Bucket Challenge 1ka patta
Anderson SAF ta Challenge karala thiyenne
mona karaida danne naha...he heFellaini Ice Bucket Challenge
Fellaini nominate karanne David Moyes wa
Javier Hernandez ( Chicharito ) Takes On The ALS 'Ice Bucket Challenge!
Chicharito ge Ice Bucket Challenge 1ka patta
Lokeren 1-0 Hull City: McGregor error dents Tigers' Europa League hopes
Hull City were left to rue an error from goalkeeper Allan McGregor as they slipped to a 1-0 Europa League defeat to Lokeren.
A scuffed clearance from the 32-year-old goalkeeper just before the hour went straight to Hans Vanaken, who produced a cool finish to hand his side victory in the first leg of the play-off tie.
Despite a bright start, Steve Bruce's side failed to breach the Belgian Cup winners, with Yannick Sagbo wasting their best chance early on. The visitors will head into the return leg at the KC stadium needing at least a two-goal margin to keep their dream of qualifying for the group stages alive.
Hull, who made nine changes from their weekend win over QPR, enjoyed a lively start to proceedings in Belgium and should have taken the lead after seven minutes.
Some great work from Maynor Figueroa allowed Sagbo to break free of his man in the six-yard box, only for the Ivorian's scuffed shot to be hacked clear by Denis Odoi. Robbie Brady and David Meyler both tried their luck from distance before the 10-minute mark, but failed to really test Davino Verhulst in the Lokeren goal.
Roared on by 1,000 travelling fans, Hull continued to dominate possession in the middle of the park, but lacked the incisiveness needed to get behind a stubborn home defence. The hosts themselves struggled to find any cohesion in the final third, with their best chance of the half coming 15 minutes before the break when Nill De Pauw lashed a volley over from distance.
But Hull remained the better side, with Sagbo's close-range header missing the target five minutes later and Meyler firing wide from 20 yards just before half-time.
The hosts nearly punished their wastefulness three minutes after the restart, with De Pauw's powerful effort from the edge of the box forcing a fine save from McGregor.But the Scot turned from hero to villain 10 minutes later, scuffing a pass on the edge of the area straight into the path of Vanaken, who calmly rounded the keeper and rolled into the net.
Junior Dutra fired wide and De Pauw forced a smart save from McGregor within three minutes of each other as the hosts looked to build on their momentum. Hull threw on Nikica Jelavic and Tom Ince in a bid to find a precious away goal, a move that injected some welcome pace into their front line.
Ince forced a decent save from Verhulst 12 minutes from time with a low drive, and the keeper was on hand to deny Meyler inside the last 10 minutes to secure the victory, Lokeren's first over English opposition.
Hull City were left to rue an error from goalkeeper Allan McGregor as they slipped to a 1-0 Europa League defeat to Lokeren.
A scuffed clearance from the 32-year-old goalkeeper just before the hour went straight to Hans Vanaken, who produced a cool finish to hand his side victory in the first leg of the play-off tie.
Despite a bright start, Steve Bruce's side failed to breach the Belgian Cup winners, with Yannick Sagbo wasting their best chance early on. The visitors will head into the return leg at the KC stadium needing at least a two-goal margin to keep their dream of qualifying for the group stages alive.
Hull, who made nine changes from their weekend win over QPR, enjoyed a lively start to proceedings in Belgium and should have taken the lead after seven minutes.
Some great work from Maynor Figueroa allowed Sagbo to break free of his man in the six-yard box, only for the Ivorian's scuffed shot to be hacked clear by Denis Odoi. Robbie Brady and David Meyler both tried their luck from distance before the 10-minute mark, but failed to really test Davino Verhulst in the Lokeren goal.
Roared on by 1,000 travelling fans, Hull continued to dominate possession in the middle of the park, but lacked the incisiveness needed to get behind a stubborn home defence. The hosts themselves struggled to find any cohesion in the final third, with their best chance of the half coming 15 minutes before the break when Nill De Pauw lashed a volley over from distance.
But Hull remained the better side, with Sagbo's close-range header missing the target five minutes later and Meyler firing wide from 20 yards just before half-time.
The hosts nearly punished their wastefulness three minutes after the restart, with De Pauw's powerful effort from the edge of the box forcing a fine save from McGregor.But the Scot turned from hero to villain 10 minutes later, scuffing a pass on the edge of the area straight into the path of Vanaken, who calmly rounded the keeper and rolled into the net.
Junior Dutra fired wide and De Pauw forced a smart save from McGregor within three minutes of each other as the hosts looked to build on their momentum. Hull threw on Nikica Jelavic and Tom Ince in a bid to find a precious away goal, a move that injected some welcome pace into their front line.
Ince forced a decent save from Verhulst 12 minutes from time with a low drive, and the keeper was on hand to deny Meyler inside the last 10 minutes to secure the victory, Lokeren's first over English opposition.
Klopp hints at Hummels absence
Jurgen Klopp has hinted Mats Hummels will not feature in Borussia Dortmund's Bundesliga clash with Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday.
The centre-back enjoyed an extended break after winning the World Cup with Germany this summer but is not yet 100% fit, and Klopp keen to avoid rushing him back too soon.
He said: "Mats needs a bit more training and he will get it. His position is the least of our worries at the moment."
Dortmund are without 10 first team players for the clash against Leverkusen after injury problems blighted their bid to battle Bayern Munich for the Bundesliga last season.
Oliver Kirch, Dong-Won Ji, Marcel Schmelzer, Nuri Sahin, Jakub Blaszczykowski, Adrian Ramos, Ilkay Gundogan, Erik Durm and Roman Weidenfeller all absent.
However, new signings Ciro Immobile and Matthias Ginter will start and Klopp is remaining optimistic over their opening game of the season.
"Bayer have always had quality and they've strengthened again," he added.
"They've been awkward opponents over the past few years, but then again so have we. The key question is not 'who has come through pre-season really well, but who is able to harm them the most?'"
Jurgen Klopp has hinted Mats Hummels will not feature in Borussia Dortmund's Bundesliga clash with Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday.
The centre-back enjoyed an extended break after winning the World Cup with Germany this summer but is not yet 100% fit, and Klopp keen to avoid rushing him back too soon.
He said: "Mats needs a bit more training and he will get it. His position is the least of our worries at the moment."
Dortmund are without 10 first team players for the clash against Leverkusen after injury problems blighted their bid to battle Bayern Munich for the Bundesliga last season.
Oliver Kirch, Dong-Won Ji, Marcel Schmelzer, Nuri Sahin, Jakub Blaszczykowski, Adrian Ramos, Ilkay Gundogan, Erik Durm and Roman Weidenfeller all absent.
However, new signings Ciro Immobile and Matthias Ginter will start and Klopp is remaining optimistic over their opening game of the season.
"Bayer have always had quality and they've strengthened again," he added.
"They've been awkward opponents over the past few years, but then again so have we. The key question is not 'who has come through pre-season really well, but who is able to harm them the most?'"
Liverpool offer Eto'o one-year deal
Liverpool have made former Chelsea striker Samuel Eto'o a contract offer as they look to bring the player to Anfield.
Liverpool, who are on the verge of signing Mario Balotelli from AC Milan, are also ready to push through a deal for Eto'o as Brendan Rodgers looks to bolster his attacking options before the close of the transfer window.
Eto'o is a free agent after leaving Chelsea earlier this summer and has attracted the interest of a number of clubs in Europe, America and the Middle East.
It is understood the Cameroon international's preference is to remain in England and the Premier League after enjoying his one season at Chelsea last term.
Ajax and Everton have both expressed an interest in Eto'o, but it appears Liverpool are now in pole position to land the former Barcelona and Inter star.
Liverpool have offered Eto'o a one-year deal on €93,000 a week with performance-related bonuses with the option of another year if he impresses at Anfield.
Should Eto'o and Balotelli join Liverpool it would see the two strikers link up for a second time after they played together at Inter.
Liverpool have made former Chelsea striker Samuel Eto'o a contract offer as they look to bring the player to Anfield.
Liverpool, who are on the verge of signing Mario Balotelli from AC Milan, are also ready to push through a deal for Eto'o as Brendan Rodgers looks to bolster his attacking options before the close of the transfer window.
Eto'o is a free agent after leaving Chelsea earlier this summer and has attracted the interest of a number of clubs in Europe, America and the Middle East.
It is understood the Cameroon international's preference is to remain in England and the Premier League after enjoying his one season at Chelsea last term.
Ajax and Everton have both expressed an interest in Eto'o, but it appears Liverpool are now in pole position to land the former Barcelona and Inter star.
Liverpool have offered Eto'o a one-year deal on €93,000 a week with performance-related bonuses with the option of another year if he impresses at Anfield.
Should Eto'o and Balotelli join Liverpool it would see the two strikers link up for a second time after they played together at Inter.
Champions League 1keth innawane mehsare
Di Maria to Barcelona would be difficult, says Xavi
Xavi believes Barcelona would find it difficult to prise Angel Di Maria away from Real Madrid before the end of the summer transfer window.
Blancos boss Carlo Ancelotti revealed on Thursday that the Argentina international wants to leave the Santiago Bernabeu, leading to speculation that the capital club's Catalan rivals could make a move for the 26-year-old winger.
Nevertheless, Xavi has all but ruled out the possibility of Di Maria making the move to Camp Nou.
"He is a great player," the Barcelona skipper said at a press conference. "But fact is that he is a Real Madrid player at the moment.
"The past has shown that it is always difficult for a Madrid player to move to Barcelona and the other way around."
Di Maria has also been heavily linked with Manchester United, while Paris Saint-Germain allegedly continue to monitor his situation at the Bernabeu as well, irrespective of their claims that they cannot afford the former Benfica man.
Meanwhile, Barcelona will probably have to make do without the services of Neymar in Sunday's La Liga game against Elche due to an ankle sprain and Xavi believes the Brazil international will be sorely missed.
"I don't know yet whether Neymar is available for Sunday's game, but he is a very important player for Barcelona," the playmaker confessed.
"It would be big handicap for the team if he misses the match due to injury."
Xavi believes Barcelona would find it difficult to prise Angel Di Maria away from Real Madrid before the end of the summer transfer window.
Blancos boss Carlo Ancelotti revealed on Thursday that the Argentina international wants to leave the Santiago Bernabeu, leading to speculation that the capital club's Catalan rivals could make a move for the 26-year-old winger.
Nevertheless, Xavi has all but ruled out the possibility of Di Maria making the move to Camp Nou.
"He is a great player," the Barcelona skipper said at a press conference. "But fact is that he is a Real Madrid player at the moment.
"The past has shown that it is always difficult for a Madrid player to move to Barcelona and the other way around."
Di Maria has also been heavily linked with Manchester United, while Paris Saint-Germain allegedly continue to monitor his situation at the Bernabeu as well, irrespective of their claims that they cannot afford the former Benfica man.
Meanwhile, Barcelona will probably have to make do without the services of Neymar in Sunday's La Liga game against Elche due to an ankle sprain and Xavi believes the Brazil international will be sorely missed.
"I don't know yet whether Neymar is available for Sunday's game, but he is a very important player for Barcelona," the playmaker confessed.
"It would be big handicap for the team if he misses the match due to injury."
Samaras signs two-year deal at West Brom
West Brom have confirmed the signing of striker Georgios Samaras on a two-year deal.
The Greece international has joined on a free transfer and is the club's ninth signing under new head coach Alan Irvine, having left Celtic following six years at the Scottish side.
West Brom, who claimed they had "beaten off competition from a host of clubs across Europe" to sign the 29-year-old forward, are delighted with the acquisition.
"We've signed a player with vast experience and I'm delighted to welcome 'Sami' to the club," Irvine told the club's official website.
"He has played a lot of football at the highest levels – Champions League, European Championships and World Cups – and the feedback we've got on him, from people like Neil Lennon, states he thrives on the big occasion.
"He will certainly play in plenty of those in the Barclays Premier League.
"Georgios has played in big games for a Celtic team that have often had a lot of the ball and have had to work hard to break the opposition down.
"But he has also shown another side to his game in other matches when they haven't seen as much of the ball."
The signing of Samaras gives Irvine four forward options, joining fellow new signing Brown Ideye, young striker Saido Berahino and Victor Anichebe, and Irvine is excited by his versatility in attack, adding: "We have now got four strikers with different qualities, who can be used in different ways.
"That's great for us, because we need to have flexibility, the option to approach games in different ways and cover for injuries.
"I'm absolutely delighted with the four strikers we have."
Samaras scored 11 goals in 33 appearances in all competitions for Celtic last term.
West Brom have confirmed the signing of striker Georgios Samaras on a two-year deal.
The Greece international has joined on a free transfer and is the club's ninth signing under new head coach Alan Irvine, having left Celtic following six years at the Scottish side.
West Brom, who claimed they had "beaten off competition from a host of clubs across Europe" to sign the 29-year-old forward, are delighted with the acquisition.
"We've signed a player with vast experience and I'm delighted to welcome 'Sami' to the club," Irvine told the club's official website.
"He has played a lot of football at the highest levels – Champions League, European Championships and World Cups – and the feedback we've got on him, from people like Neil Lennon, states he thrives on the big occasion.
"He will certainly play in plenty of those in the Barclays Premier League.
"Georgios has played in big games for a Celtic team that have often had a lot of the ball and have had to work hard to break the opposition down.
"But he has also shown another side to his game in other matches when they haven't seen as much of the ball."
The signing of Samaras gives Irvine four forward options, joining fellow new signing Brown Ideye, young striker Saido Berahino and Victor Anichebe, and Irvine is excited by his versatility in attack, adding: "We have now got four strikers with different qualities, who can be used in different ways.
"That's great for us, because we need to have flexibility, the option to approach games in different ways and cover for injuries.
"I'm absolutely delighted with the four strikers we have."
Samaras scored 11 goals in 33 appearances in all competitions for Celtic last term.
Rummenigge: Bayern-Dortmund 'slugfest' makes me smile
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has revealed that the current verbal "slugfest" between Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund makes him smile.
Already unhappy at having seen Mario Gotze and Robert Lewandowski swap Signal Iduna Park for the Allianz Arena over the past 12 months, BVB are now furious that their Bundesliga rivals appear to be publicly courting star forward Marco Reus.
However, Rummenigge, who caused no end of controversy by speaking about the Germany international's buy-out clause, says that he finds the war of words both amusing and entertaining, citing the hype which surrounded last week's DFL-Supercup showdown between the two sides as a case in point.
“I just have to smile," Rummenigge said of his rivalry with Dortmund counterpart Hans-Joachim Watzke in an interview with Munchner Merkur.
"Honestly, I for one think the slugfest is amusing; I'm not at all annoyed. I always smile when I read something new, because nothing annoys me.
"You have to admit it: Without the taunting in advance, the Supercup would have been rather boring.
"We're all grown up and, in my eyes, [the taunting] is pretty good."
Dortmund are again expected to be Bayern's closest challengers in this season's Bundesliga, which kicks off on Friday night.
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has revealed that the current verbal "slugfest" between Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund makes him smile.
Already unhappy at having seen Mario Gotze and Robert Lewandowski swap Signal Iduna Park for the Allianz Arena over the past 12 months, BVB are now furious that their Bundesliga rivals appear to be publicly courting star forward Marco Reus.
However, Rummenigge, who caused no end of controversy by speaking about the Germany international's buy-out clause, says that he finds the war of words both amusing and entertaining, citing the hype which surrounded last week's DFL-Supercup showdown between the two sides as a case in point.
“I just have to smile," Rummenigge said of his rivalry with Dortmund counterpart Hans-Joachim Watzke in an interview with Munchner Merkur.
"Honestly, I for one think the slugfest is amusing; I'm not at all annoyed. I always smile when I read something new, because nothing annoys me.
"You have to admit it: Without the taunting in advance, the Supercup would have been rather boring.
"We're all grown up and, in my eyes, [the taunting] is pretty good."
Dortmund are again expected to be Bayern's closest challengers in this season's Bundesliga, which kicks off on Friday night.
Suarez unsure about Barcelona future
Denis Suarez has admitted that he does not know whether his future lies at Barcelona but made it clear that he is only thinking about Sevilla at the moment.
The 20-year-old, who joined the Blaugrana from Manchester City in the summer of 2013, recently signed a two-year loan deal with the Rojiblancos and he is determined to give his all for the Europa League holders this term.
"I am very happy at Sevilla and I am focused on doing well for Sevilla this season," the young midfielder told Goal.
"We will see what happens in the future once the season is over. I am not thinking about a return to Barcelona at the moment."
Suarez was joined by fellow Barcelona loanee Gerard Deulofeu earlier this week and the midfielder has nothing but praise for the tricky attacker.
"I think Deulofeu is a great player," he said of the former Everton man. "He is a good friend and I think he will bring a lot to Sevilla. He is very strong in the one-on-one.
"All good players are welcome at Sevilla because they can help us forward."
Suarez has a contract with Barcelona until June 2017 but Sevilla have the option to make his stay at the club permanent next summer.
The midfielder made his Sevilla debut in the 2-0 Uefa Super Cup loss to Real Madrid on August 12.
Denis Suarez has admitted that he does not know whether his future lies at Barcelona but made it clear that he is only thinking about Sevilla at the moment.
The 20-year-old, who joined the Blaugrana from Manchester City in the summer of 2013, recently signed a two-year loan deal with the Rojiblancos and he is determined to give his all for the Europa League holders this term.
"I am very happy at Sevilla and I am focused on doing well for Sevilla this season," the young midfielder told Goal.
"We will see what happens in the future once the season is over. I am not thinking about a return to Barcelona at the moment."
Suarez was joined by fellow Barcelona loanee Gerard Deulofeu earlier this week and the midfielder has nothing but praise for the tricky attacker.
"I think Deulofeu is a great player," he said of the former Everton man. "He is a good friend and I think he will bring a lot to Sevilla. He is very strong in the one-on-one.
"All good players are welcome at Sevilla because they can help us forward."
Suarez has a contract with Barcelona until June 2017 but Sevilla have the option to make his stay at the club permanent next summer.
The midfielder made his Sevilla debut in the 2-0 Uefa Super Cup loss to Real Madrid on August 12.
Ferdinand dreaming of England job
Rio Ferdinand has his sights set on managing England once he calls time on his illustrious playing career.
The 35-year-old moved to QPR on a free transfer in the close-season, bringing to an end a trophy-laden 12 years at Manchester United.
Approaching the twilight of his career, Ferdinand is already thinking of his future after retirement, and has announced his intentions to gain his coaching qualifications with a view to one day taking the top job with England.
"Everyone has dreams of playing for England and my dream after football is to manage England," he told the Daily Mail.
"I don't expect the chance now, but once I get the badges I am there. If I don't get a job in management I will wonder why.
"I will give myself the best opportunity of getting the job by getting all the badges.
"I don't think people should start shouting the odds about the opportunity to manage clubs until they have their badges. I am not sitting here saying 'give me a job' because I don't have them yet."
And Ferdinand believes England should follow the example of some of their rivals in promoting young coaches from within.
"[Joachim] Low, [Jurgen] Klinsmann were young geezers when they started out with Germany," he said.
"Look at [Marco] Van Basten, [Jose] Mourinho, [Pep] Guardiola and Luis Enrique - they are not old fellas but they were given a chance. It is different in this country. We are 10 years behind in certain situations.
"We have to do what's best for English football."
Rio Ferdinand has his sights set on managing England once he calls time on his illustrious playing career.
The 35-year-old moved to QPR on a free transfer in the close-season, bringing to an end a trophy-laden 12 years at Manchester United.
Approaching the twilight of his career, Ferdinand is already thinking of his future after retirement, and has announced his intentions to gain his coaching qualifications with a view to one day taking the top job with England.
"Everyone has dreams of playing for England and my dream after football is to manage England," he told the Daily Mail.
"I don't expect the chance now, but once I get the badges I am there. If I don't get a job in management I will wonder why.
"I will give myself the best opportunity of getting the job by getting all the badges.
"I don't think people should start shouting the odds about the opportunity to manage clubs until they have their badges. I am not sitting here saying 'give me a job' because I don't have them yet."
And Ferdinand believes England should follow the example of some of their rivals in promoting young coaches from within.
"[Joachim] Low, [Jurgen] Klinsmann were young geezers when they started out with Germany," he said.
"Look at [Marco] Van Basten, [Jose] Mourinho, [Pep] Guardiola and Luis Enrique - they are not old fellas but they were given a chance. It is different in this country. We are 10 years behind in certain situations.
"We have to do what's best for English football."
Ribery could perform France u-turn like Zidane, says Deschamps
France could Didier Deschamps believes Bayern Munich attacker Franck Ribery could follow in the footsteps of Zinedine Zidane and go back on his decision to retire from international football.
The 31-year-old winger recently announced that he would no longer be making himself available for Les Bleus as he wants to focus on his family.
However, Deschamps is not giving up hope on Ribery performaing a dramatic u-turn on his international retirement ahead of Euro 2016 in France.
"It's his choice. He has made an announcement and I have taken notice of it. But who knows how he feels in two years' time," Deschamps was quoted as saying by L'Equipe.
"A lot of players came back on their decision after retiring, and some big names at that. Zidane also quit after Euro 2004 and then made his comeback in 2005.
"What will be important for me is to analyse his mental condition. Would it be a good thing for him and for the group to call him up again? If necessary, I can be quite radical."
Ribery has won 82 senior caps for France since making his debut in 2006, but missed out on this summer's World Cup after failing to recover from a chronic back problem.
France could Didier Deschamps believes Bayern Munich attacker Franck Ribery could follow in the footsteps of Zinedine Zidane and go back on his decision to retire from international football.
The 31-year-old winger recently announced that he would no longer be making himself available for Les Bleus as he wants to focus on his family.
However, Deschamps is not giving up hope on Ribery performaing a dramatic u-turn on his international retirement ahead of Euro 2016 in France.
"It's his choice. He has made an announcement and I have taken notice of it. But who knows how he feels in two years' time," Deschamps was quoted as saying by L'Equipe.
"A lot of players came back on their decision after retiring, and some big names at that. Zidane also quit after Euro 2004 and then made his comeback in 2005.
"What will be important for me is to analyse his mental condition. Would it be a good thing for him and for the group to call him up again? If necessary, I can be quite radical."
Ribery has won 82 senior caps for France since making his debut in 2006, but missed out on this summer's World Cup after failing to recover from a chronic back problem.
Di Maria better than Messi & Ronaldo, says Menotti
Former Argentina coach Cesar Menotti has hit out at Real Madrid for their treatment of Angel Di Maria and believes the winger has been better than Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in 2014.
Di Maria played a key role in Madrid's successful Champions League campaign last term, yet appears to be surplus to requirements following the arrival of James Rodriguez and Toni Kroos this summer.
Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti revealed earlier this week that the former Benfica star has requested a transfer after turning down an offer to sign a contract extension at the Santiago Bernabeu and the 26-year-old is widely expected to leave the club before the end of the month, much to the surprise of Menotti.
"I think Di Maria should be considered as the best player in Spain over the past few months, outshining even Messi," the 1978 World Cup winner wrote in his column for DPA Global Media Services.
"The way Madrid have treated Di Maria is an injustice.
"They signed James Rodriguez in an attempt to sell more jerseys. He's a marketing product for Madrid."
Di Maria joined Madrid from Benfica in the summer of 2010 and has since made over 100 appearances in La Liga for the Spanish giants.
He has a contract at the Bernabeu until June 2018, but could be available for a transfer fee in the region of €60 million.
The attacker has been heavily linked with both Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United, but the Ligue 1 champions recently announced that Di Maria is too expensive for them, seemingly leaving Louis van Gaal's side in pole position to sign the versatile attacker.
Former Argentina coach Cesar Menotti has hit out at Real Madrid for their treatment of Angel Di Maria and believes the winger has been better than Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in 2014.
Di Maria played a key role in Madrid's successful Champions League campaign last term, yet appears to be surplus to requirements following the arrival of James Rodriguez and Toni Kroos this summer.
Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti revealed earlier this week that the former Benfica star has requested a transfer after turning down an offer to sign a contract extension at the Santiago Bernabeu and the 26-year-old is widely expected to leave the club before the end of the month, much to the surprise of Menotti.
"I think Di Maria should be considered as the best player in Spain over the past few months, outshining even Messi," the 1978 World Cup winner wrote in his column for DPA Global Media Services.
"The way Madrid have treated Di Maria is an injustice.
"They signed James Rodriguez in an attempt to sell more jerseys. He's a marketing product for Madrid."
Di Maria joined Madrid from Benfica in the summer of 2010 and has since made over 100 appearances in La Liga for the Spanish giants.
He has a contract at the Bernabeu until June 2018, but could be available for a transfer fee in the region of €60 million.
The attacker has been heavily linked with both Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United, but the Ligue 1 champions recently announced that Di Maria is too expensive for them, seemingly leaving Louis van Gaal's side in pole position to sign the versatile attacker.
Wolfsburg aim to upset Bayern, says Olic
Ivica Olic is hopeful that Wolfsburg can spring a surprise in their Bundesliga opener against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena on Friday.
Dieter Hecking's men were beaten 6-1 when they last met the reigning German champions, back in March, but the experienced attacker is confident they can do better this time around.
"We've played a few times in Munich with me in the team but we've always lost. I’m hopeful we might open the season with a surprise," Olic told the official Bayern website.
"I'm certain the World Cup players who joined pre-season at a late stage can't yet be on peak form, but obviously Bayern still have a huge number of quality players in their squad.
"It'll be tough for us, but if I was given the choice of when to face Bayern, I'd take the first match.
"Obviously I'm hoping we don’t suffer another big defeat like last time. We want to do the best we can in Munich."
Olic wore the Bayern jersey between 2009 and 2012, scoring 23 goals in 80 appearances for the Bavarians.
Ivica Olic is hopeful that Wolfsburg can spring a surprise in their Bundesliga opener against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena on Friday.
Dieter Hecking's men were beaten 6-1 when they last met the reigning German champions, back in March, but the experienced attacker is confident they can do better this time around.
"We've played a few times in Munich with me in the team but we've always lost. I’m hopeful we might open the season with a surprise," Olic told the official Bayern website.
"I'm certain the World Cup players who joined pre-season at a late stage can't yet be on peak form, but obviously Bayern still have a huge number of quality players in their squad.
"It'll be tough for us, but if I was given the choice of when to face Bayern, I'd take the first match.
"Obviously I'm hoping we don’t suffer another big defeat like last time. We want to do the best we can in Munich."
Olic wore the Bayern jersey between 2009 and 2012, scoring 23 goals in 80 appearances for the Bavarians.
LMA apologises for initial Mackay statement
The League Managers' Association (LMA) has apologised for the wording of a previous statement which addressed Malky Mackay's involvement in a text message scandal.
The LMA released a statement on Thursday apologising for any offence caused by Mackay's alleged comments in a series of exchanges which took place at Cardiff City with former Crystal Palace sporting director Iain Moody.
The messages which have been made public contain sentiments that are racist, anti-Semitic, sexist and homophobic in nature, but the LMA's statement caused further controversy by seemingly trying to excuse Mackay's actions as "friendly text message banter".
"The LMA apologises for some of its wording, in its release yesterday, which was inappropriate and has been perceived to trivialise matters of a racist, sexist or homophobic nature," the organisation's latest statement read.
"That was certainly not our intention. It is beyond argument that any comments that are discriminatory, even used in private, are totally unacceptable."The LMA remains absolutely aware of our responsibility to the game and to promote and uphold the highest standards of behaviour.
"The LMA will not be commenting further on the allegations relating to Malky Mackay whilst the FA conducts its investigation, other than to repeat that both the LMA and Malky will be co-operating fully."We will continue to work with all of the game's stakeholders to address the important issues of respect and discriminatory behaviour in all its forms."
Mackay and Moody were both sacked by Cardiff last season and the Welsh club have since sent a dossier to the Football Association (FA) alleging misconduct that hit the headlines as Mackay appeared on the verge of taking the vacant managerial post at Crystal Palace.
The League Managers' Association (LMA) has apologised for the wording of a previous statement which addressed Malky Mackay's involvement in a text message scandal.
The LMA released a statement on Thursday apologising for any offence caused by Mackay's alleged comments in a series of exchanges which took place at Cardiff City with former Crystal Palace sporting director Iain Moody.
The messages which have been made public contain sentiments that are racist, anti-Semitic, sexist and homophobic in nature, but the LMA's statement caused further controversy by seemingly trying to excuse Mackay's actions as "friendly text message banter".
"The LMA apologises for some of its wording, in its release yesterday, which was inappropriate and has been perceived to trivialise matters of a racist, sexist or homophobic nature," the organisation's latest statement read.
"That was certainly not our intention. It is beyond argument that any comments that are discriminatory, even used in private, are totally unacceptable."The LMA remains absolutely aware of our responsibility to the game and to promote and uphold the highest standards of behaviour.
"The LMA will not be commenting further on the allegations relating to Malky Mackay whilst the FA conducts its investigation, other than to repeat that both the LMA and Malky will be co-operating fully."We will continue to work with all of the game's stakeholders to address the important issues of respect and discriminatory behaviour in all its forms."
Mackay and Moody were both sacked by Cardiff last season and the Welsh club have since sent a dossier to the Football Association (FA) alleging misconduct that hit the headlines as Mackay appeared on the verge of taking the vacant managerial post at Crystal Palace.
Guerrero reveals Sunderland & West Ham interest
Peru international Paolo Guerrero has confirmed he was the subject of interest from Premier League clubs and admitted he would be tempted by a move back to European football.
Goal reported at the start of August that Sunderland, West Ham and QPR had enquired about the Corinthians forward, who spent nine years in the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich and Hamburg.
And the 30-year-old says he was made aware of interest from the Hammers and the Black Cats, but was not informed of any further details.
"I know there was interest from West Ham, I think they contacted Corinthians," he told Globoesporte. "I am aware of those two clubs. But I can't say more because I don't know the details.
"Which player doesn't want to return to Europe? They all do. But I remain focused, we have the objective of being champions, so I can't talk about anything else."
Guerrero joined Bayern from Allianza Lima in 2003 and went on to score 47 league goals with the Bavarians and Hamburg.
The 30-year-old moved back to South America with Brazilian giants Corinthians in 2012, and has scored five Serie A goals this season as Timao sit third.
Peru international Paolo Guerrero has confirmed he was the subject of interest from Premier League clubs and admitted he would be tempted by a move back to European football.
Goal reported at the start of August that Sunderland, West Ham and QPR had enquired about the Corinthians forward, who spent nine years in the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich and Hamburg.
And the 30-year-old says he was made aware of interest from the Hammers and the Black Cats, but was not informed of any further details.
"I know there was interest from West Ham, I think they contacted Corinthians," he told Globoesporte. "I am aware of those two clubs. But I can't say more because I don't know the details.
"Which player doesn't want to return to Europe? They all do. But I remain focused, we have the objective of being champions, so I can't talk about anything else."
Guerrero joined Bayern from Allianza Lima in 2003 and went on to score 47 league goals with the Bavarians and Hamburg.
The 30-year-old moved back to South America with Brazilian giants Corinthians in 2012, and has scored five Serie A goals this season as Timao sit third.
Wenger: Wilshere should ignore critics
Arsene Wenger has told Jack Wilshere to ignore his doubters and focus on proving his worth to Arsenal.
The midfielder made his Premier League debut for the Gunners as a 16-year-old in 2008 and was widely tipped to become one of the most influential players of his generation.
A series of injuries have subsequently stunted his progress and Wilshere has come in for criticism recently over a perceived lack of development.
Both Paul Scholes and Jamie Carragher - now working as TV pundits - have questioned whether the 22-year-old has lived up to his potential, leading boss Wenger to come out in support of his player.
"I believe at the moment he should not respond to the criticism, just focus on his game," said the Frenchman.
"If Wilshere can maintain his fitness, then he will make a huge career. At the moment, I believe he should just focus on that - being fit, present and to improve physically.
"The rest will come along. I told him the target is for him to have the whole season being available to play.
"Before he [Wilshere] was in Calum Chambers' position [as a promising youngster], then suddenly when you get to 22, the expectation level comes on you. [Wayne] Rooney has gone through that, now it goes through Wilshere.
"He is not [progressing] as far as everyone expected him to be from when he was at 18, but that is because he was injured, not because he doesn't train seriously.
"He is a guy who when he goes out there, he wants to play, he works hard but he was out for one and a half years."
Arsene Wenger has told Jack Wilshere to ignore his doubters and focus on proving his worth to Arsenal.
The midfielder made his Premier League debut for the Gunners as a 16-year-old in 2008 and was widely tipped to become one of the most influential players of his generation.
A series of injuries have subsequently stunted his progress and Wilshere has come in for criticism recently over a perceived lack of development.
Both Paul Scholes and Jamie Carragher - now working as TV pundits - have questioned whether the 22-year-old has lived up to his potential, leading boss Wenger to come out in support of his player.
"I believe at the moment he should not respond to the criticism, just focus on his game," said the Frenchman.
"If Wilshere can maintain his fitness, then he will make a huge career. At the moment, I believe he should just focus on that - being fit, present and to improve physically.
"The rest will come along. I told him the target is for him to have the whole season being available to play.
"Before he [Wilshere] was in Calum Chambers' position [as a promising youngster], then suddenly when you get to 22, the expectation level comes on you. [Wayne] Rooney has gone through that, now it goes through Wilshere.
"He is not [progressing] as far as everyone expected him to be from when he was at 18, but that is because he was injured, not because he doesn't train seriously.
"He is a guy who when he goes out there, he wants to play, he works hard but he was out for one and a half years."
Neymar injury blow for Barcelona
Barcelona have received a blow ahead of Sunday's Liga opener against Elche with the news that Neymar is set to miss the game at Camp Nou through injury.
The Brazil international had only just been given the green light to return to action by the Catalan club's medical staff, after recovering from the back injury he picked up at the World Cup, but is now facing another spell on the sidelines.
"Following the Thursday training session Neymar Jr. complained about some pain in his left ankle and tests have confirmed that the player has a Grade 1 ankle sprain," a statement on the official Barcelona website reads.
"The club's medical team has indicated that his return to training will depend on how the injury treatment evolves.
"It’s worth recalling that, last Monday, Neymar Jr. received his medical discharge from the back injury that he suffered during the World Cup in Brazil."
Neymar made 26 La Liga appearances last term, scoring nine goals in the process, but his campaign was plagued by fitness problems.
Barcelona have received a blow ahead of Sunday's Liga opener against Elche with the news that Neymar is set to miss the game at Camp Nou through injury.
The Brazil international had only just been given the green light to return to action by the Catalan club's medical staff, after recovering from the back injury he picked up at the World Cup, but is now facing another spell on the sidelines.
"Following the Thursday training session Neymar Jr. complained about some pain in his left ankle and tests have confirmed that the player has a Grade 1 ankle sprain," a statement on the official Barcelona website reads.
"The club's medical team has indicated that his return to training will depend on how the injury treatment evolves.
"It’s worth recalling that, last Monday, Neymar Jr. received his medical discharge from the back injury that he suffered during the World Cup in Brazil."
Neymar made 26 La Liga appearances last term, scoring nine goals in the process, but his campaign was plagued by fitness problems.
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