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Roma 0-0 AC Milan: Inzaghi's men hold on for a point despite Armero red
Roma's title aspirations were dented after AC Milan held on for a 0-0 draw on Saturday despite going down to 10 men in the second half.
Rudi Garcia's men could have headed into the mid-season break trailing champions Juve by just a solitary point by winning Saturday's encounter at Stadio Olimpico.
However, the eagerly anticipated clash developed into somewhat of a war of attrition with few clear-cut chances, although Roma will feel they perhaps had the better openings in the Italian capital.
Milan goalkeeper Diego Lopez made smart first-half saves from Alessandro Florenzi and the impressive Gervinho, while Nigel de Jong was perhaps lucky not to concede a penalty for handball.
The visitors arguably edged the play in the second half, but their hopes were hindered when Pablo Armero was shown a second yellow card for handball, and Lopez was called on to again deny Gervinho in injury time.
A point means that Roma will resume in the new year three points off leaders Juve, while Milan - who have now failed to beat Roma in their last five meetings - remain in seventh having missed the chance to go level with third-placed Napoli.
Milan delivered an early warning in the second minute with a well struck 25-yard shot from Keisuke Honda that forced Morgan De Sanctis into a smart save low to his left.
Having made a slow start, Roma hit their stride and Florenzi had a great opportunity when he sprung the offside trap down the left and forced Lopez into a smart save with a half volley.
From the resulting corner Daniele De Rossi failed to make clean contact with his shot when the ball fell to him six yards from goal.
Roma's pressure continued and Lopez stopped a Gervinho effort with his legs after the forward showed great footwork to weave his way into the penalty area.
The flash point of the half came in the 32nd minute when Roma saw legitimate claims for a penalty ignored by referee Nicola Rizzoli after De Jong handled in the area to deny Gervinho's header.
De Sanctis ensured salt was not rubbed in the wounds when he produced a superb fingertip save from Philippe Mexes' thunderbolt 35-yard strike.
The visitors made a bright start to the second half and the in-form Jeremy Menez should have done better with a close-range effort that came off his shin and rolled harmlessly to De Sanctis.
Andrea Poli then dragged a shot wide from the edge of the box in the 55th minute, before Giacomo Bonaventura tested De Sanctis with a low drive after cutting in from the left.
Milan's chances of stealing a win were dealt a blow in the 71st minute when Armero was given his marching orders for deliberate handball as he look to challenge Seydou Keita midway into his own half.
Roma attempted to make the most of the numerical advantage in the last 10 minutes and substitute Mattia Destro had tentative claims for a penalty waved way when tugged to ground by Mexes.
Gervinho then came desperately close to an injury-time winner when he ghosted past several challenges, but he was again denied by Lopez from close range.
Roma's title aspirations were dented after AC Milan held on for a 0-0 draw on Saturday despite going down to 10 men in the second half.
Rudi Garcia's men could have headed into the mid-season break trailing champions Juve by just a solitary point by winning Saturday's encounter at Stadio Olimpico.
However, the eagerly anticipated clash developed into somewhat of a war of attrition with few clear-cut chances, although Roma will feel they perhaps had the better openings in the Italian capital.
Milan goalkeeper Diego Lopez made smart first-half saves from Alessandro Florenzi and the impressive Gervinho, while Nigel de Jong was perhaps lucky not to concede a penalty for handball.
The visitors arguably edged the play in the second half, but their hopes were hindered when Pablo Armero was shown a second yellow card for handball, and Lopez was called on to again deny Gervinho in injury time.
A point means that Roma will resume in the new year three points off leaders Juve, while Milan - who have now failed to beat Roma in their last five meetings - remain in seventh having missed the chance to go level with third-placed Napoli.
Milan delivered an early warning in the second minute with a well struck 25-yard shot from Keisuke Honda that forced Morgan De Sanctis into a smart save low to his left.
Having made a slow start, Roma hit their stride and Florenzi had a great opportunity when he sprung the offside trap down the left and forced Lopez into a smart save with a half volley.
From the resulting corner Daniele De Rossi failed to make clean contact with his shot when the ball fell to him six yards from goal.
Roma's pressure continued and Lopez stopped a Gervinho effort with his legs after the forward showed great footwork to weave his way into the penalty area.
The flash point of the half came in the 32nd minute when Roma saw legitimate claims for a penalty ignored by referee Nicola Rizzoli after De Jong handled in the area to deny Gervinho's header.
De Sanctis ensured salt was not rubbed in the wounds when he produced a superb fingertip save from Philippe Mexes' thunderbolt 35-yard strike.
The visitors made a bright start to the second half and the in-form Jeremy Menez should have done better with a close-range effort that came off his shin and rolled harmlessly to De Sanctis.
Andrea Poli then dragged a shot wide from the edge of the box in the 55th minute, before Giacomo Bonaventura tested De Sanctis with a low drive after cutting in from the left.
Milan's chances of stealing a win were dealt a blow in the 71st minute when Armero was given his marching orders for deliberate handball as he look to challenge Seydou Keita midway into his own half.
Roma attempted to make the most of the numerical advantage in the last 10 minutes and substitute Mattia Destro had tentative claims for a penalty waved way when tugged to ground by Mexes.
Gervinho then came desperately close to an injury-time winner when he ghosted past several challenges, but he was again denied by Lopez from close range.
Ramos beats Ronaldo to Club World Cup Golden Ball
Sergio Ramos has been awarded the Golden Ball for the best player at the Club World Cup, beating team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Spain international scored his second goal of the tournament with a towering header on Saturday against San Lorenzo as Real Madrid recorded a 2-0 win in the final in Marrakech.
Ramos's performances were good enough to see him named as the tournament's best player after the match, with Ronaldo finishing in second place. Auckland City captain Ivan Vucelich was handed the Bronze Ball; after guiding his side to a stunning victory in the third-place play-off.
Ramos, who admitted afterwards that the muscular problem he picked up in the semi-final against Cruz Azul meant he should not really have played, was delighted to see his side round off 2014 with another trophy.
"It's true, I risked my injury playing today, but I wanted to play this match," said the 28-year-old afterwards.
"This Club World Cup was hard to win for Real Madrid and we are so happy right now.
"I'm so proud to have helped with those goals, but this is a success for the whole squad."
Sergio Ramos has been awarded the Golden Ball for the best player at the Club World Cup, beating team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Spain international scored his second goal of the tournament with a towering header on Saturday against San Lorenzo as Real Madrid recorded a 2-0 win in the final in Marrakech.
Ramos's performances were good enough to see him named as the tournament's best player after the match, with Ronaldo finishing in second place. Auckland City captain Ivan Vucelich was handed the Bronze Ball; after guiding his side to a stunning victory in the third-place play-off.
Ramos, who admitted afterwards that the muscular problem he picked up in the semi-final against Cruz Azul meant he should not really have played, was delighted to see his side round off 2014 with another trophy.
"It's true, I risked my injury playing today, but I wanted to play this match," said the 28-year-old afterwards.
"This Club World Cup was hard to win for Real Madrid and we are so happy right now.
"I'm so proud to have helped with those goals, but this is a success for the whole squad."
Bale: We've shown we're the best team in the world
Gareth Bale hailed Real Madrid as the best team on the planet after the Welshman's goal helped them seal Club World Cup glory against San Lorenzo in Marrakech.
Bale struck in the second half to double Real's lead after Sergio Ramos had opened the scoring against the reigning South American champions.
It crowned an incredible year for Carlo Ancelotti's side, who helped themselves to four titles in all - the Copa del Rey, the Champions League, the European Super Cup and now the Club World Cup.
"For us it's a massive tournament to win and to show we're the best team in the world is amazing," Bale told Goal.
"It's been a great year all round. Winning the Champions League, winning the Super Cup, winning the Copa del Rey and now this, it's been a great year and hopefully there's more to come."
Real are on course to reign supreme in La Liga this season, currently holding a one-point advantage over Barcelona having played one game fewer.
They are also favourites to win the Champions League when the competition resumes in February, with Schalke lying in wait in the last 16.
"We need to keep concentrating on each and every game and hopefully we'll achieve what we know we can," Bale added.
Gareth Bale hailed Real Madrid as the best team on the planet after the Welshman's goal helped them seal Club World Cup glory against San Lorenzo in Marrakech.
Bale struck in the second half to double Real's lead after Sergio Ramos had opened the scoring against the reigning South American champions.
It crowned an incredible year for Carlo Ancelotti's side, who helped themselves to four titles in all - the Copa del Rey, the Champions League, the European Super Cup and now the Club World Cup.
"For us it's a massive tournament to win and to show we're the best team in the world is amazing," Bale told Goal.
"It's been a great year all round. Winning the Champions League, winning the Super Cup, winning the Copa del Rey and now this, it's been a great year and hopefully there's more to come."
Real are on course to reign supreme in La Liga this season, currently holding a one-point advantage over Barcelona having played one game fewer.
They are also favourites to win the Champions League when the competition resumes in February, with Schalke lying in wait in the last 16.
"We need to keep concentrating on each and every game and hopefully we'll achieve what we know we can," Bale added.
AC Milan are on the right track - Inzaghi
Filippo Inzaghi believes four points from fixtures with Napoli and Roma proves AC Milan are on the right track in Serie A.
Milan secured a 0-0 draw with second-placed Roma at Stadio Olimpico on Saturday, despite playing the closing stages with 10 men when Pablo Armero was sent off in the 71st minute.
That draw followed an impressive 2-0 triumph over Napoli last weekend and Milan head into the mid-season break seemingly well place to challenge for a Champions League spot.
Head coach Inzaghi certainly believes that an assault on Europe's premier competition is doable and praised his team for their recent performances.
"I'm thrilled. I was hoping to win," he told Sky Sport Italia. "This team makes me so proud.
"With four points from Napoli and Roma this gives us confidence. We are on the right track.
"Now the growth [of the team] should be gradual. With this spirit we can get to third place."
Inzaghi stated that he felt the red card for Armero - which came for a second bookable offence for deliberate handball - was harsh, while he also praised the performance of goalkeeper Diego Lopez, who made a series of fine saves.
"The red card of Armero seemed excessive," he added.
"[Real Madrid coach Carlo] Ancelotti told me Lopez was a great goalkeeper. He also advised us on [Jeremy] Menez so we must thank him."
Filippo Inzaghi believes four points from fixtures with Napoli and Roma proves AC Milan are on the right track in Serie A.
Milan secured a 0-0 draw with second-placed Roma at Stadio Olimpico on Saturday, despite playing the closing stages with 10 men when Pablo Armero was sent off in the 71st minute.
That draw followed an impressive 2-0 triumph over Napoli last weekend and Milan head into the mid-season break seemingly well place to challenge for a Champions League spot.
Head coach Inzaghi certainly believes that an assault on Europe's premier competition is doable and praised his team for their recent performances.
"I'm thrilled. I was hoping to win," he told Sky Sport Italia. "This team makes me so proud.
"With four points from Napoli and Roma this gives us confidence. We are on the right track.
"Now the growth [of the team] should be gradual. With this spirit we can get to third place."
Inzaghi stated that he felt the red card for Armero - which came for a second bookable offence for deliberate handball - was harsh, while he also praised the performance of goalkeeper Diego Lopez, who made a series of fine saves.
"The red card of Armero seemed excessive," he added.
"[Real Madrid coach Carlo] Ancelotti told me Lopez was a great goalkeeper. He also advised us on [Jeremy] Menez so we must thank him."
Barclays Premier League 2014.12.21 Fixtures
Barclays Premier League 2014.12.21 Fixtures
Newcastle United Vs Sunderland
Liverpool Vs Arsenal
La Liga 2014.12.21 Fixtures
La Liga 2014.12.21 Fixtures
Villareal Vs Deportivo
Granada Vs Getafe
Athletic Bilbao Vs Atletico Madrid
Elche Vs Malaga
Villareal Vs Deportivo
Granada Vs Getafe
Athletic Bilbao Vs Atletico Madrid
Elche Vs Malaga
Serie A 2014.12.21 Fixtures
Serie A 2014.12.21 Fixtures
Hellas Verona Vs Chievo Verona
Atalanta Vs Palermo
Sampdoria Vs Udinese
Torino Vs Genoa
Fiorentina Vs Empoli
Inter Vs Lazio
Hellas Verona Vs Chievo Verona
Atalanta Vs Palermo
Sampdoria Vs Udinese
Torino Vs Genoa
Fiorentina Vs Empoli
Inter Vs Lazio
Liverpool 2-2 Arsenal: Skrtel rescues a point for 10-man Reds
The bandaged head of Martin Skrtel rescued a dramatic 2-2 Premier League draw for 10-man Liverpool against Arsenal on Sunday.
After sealing a place in the League Cup semi-finals on Wednesday, Liverpool capped a positive week with a deserved point at Anfield, despite seeing Fabio Borini sent off in stoppage time.
The hosts, who dominated the first half, led through Philippe Coutinho, but were almost immediately pegged back by Mathieu Debuchy before the interval.
From there Arsene Wenger's men visibly grew in confidence and went ahead courtesy of France striker Olivier Giroud's third goal in two games midway through the second half.
Brendan Rodgers' men pushed hard for a leveller, only for Borini's late dismissal to apparently end their hopes.
But Skrtel rose to nod home Adam Lallana's corner deep into a nine minutes of stoppage time, most of which was added for a head injury to the Slovakian.
Liverpool had the better of the early stages but struggled to craft any clear-cut chances until the 34th minute when Lazar Markovic was denied by Wojciech Szczesny.
Serbian Markovic burst into the box and attempted to lift the ball over Szczesny at the near post, but the Pole was equal to it and produced a strong save to preserve parity.
But Liverpool were finally rewarded for their near-complete dominance of the game in the final minute of normal time in the first half as Coutinho struck.
Collecting the ball just inside the edge of the area, the Brazilian cleverly worked space for himself and fired in a low shot in off the post to give his side a deserved lead.
However, Liverpool's celebrations were cut short as Rodgers saw his side's lead almost immediately erased by Debuchy.
The Frenchman headed in at the far post from Mathieu Flamini's nod-down after Liverpool had failed to clear a free-kick.
Neither that setback nor the lengthy delay caused by Srktel's collision with the boot of Giroud dented Liverpool's ambition to attack, Gerrard heading over with the goal at his mercy after Szceszny's ill-advised decision to challenge Raheem Sterling for a loose ball.
Liverpool were immediately punished for their captain's profligacy as Arsenal completing the turaround with a wonderful free-flowing move.
Giroud slid Santi Cazorla in down the left with a superb first-time pass and capped off the attack with a low finish under Brad Jones from the Spaniard's resulting pull back.
Borini then saw a point-blank header brilliantly tipped over the bar by Szczesny, before the Italian's high challenge on Cazorla earned him a second booking, having earlier receiving a yellow card for slamming the ball to the turf in frustration.
Yet Srktel ensured there would be a final twist in the tale, powering Lallana's delivery into the bottom-right corner to complete an eventful afternoon for the defender and offer Rodgers further hope that his players can turn their fortunes around and salvage a frustrating campaign.
The bandaged head of Martin Skrtel rescued a dramatic 2-2 Premier League draw for 10-man Liverpool against Arsenal on Sunday.
After sealing a place in the League Cup semi-finals on Wednesday, Liverpool capped a positive week with a deserved point at Anfield, despite seeing Fabio Borini sent off in stoppage time.
The hosts, who dominated the first half, led through Philippe Coutinho, but were almost immediately pegged back by Mathieu Debuchy before the interval.
From there Arsene Wenger's men visibly grew in confidence and went ahead courtesy of France striker Olivier Giroud's third goal in two games midway through the second half.
Brendan Rodgers' men pushed hard for a leveller, only for Borini's late dismissal to apparently end their hopes.
But Skrtel rose to nod home Adam Lallana's corner deep into a nine minutes of stoppage time, most of which was added for a head injury to the Slovakian.
Liverpool had the better of the early stages but struggled to craft any clear-cut chances until the 34th minute when Lazar Markovic was denied by Wojciech Szczesny.
Serbian Markovic burst into the box and attempted to lift the ball over Szczesny at the near post, but the Pole was equal to it and produced a strong save to preserve parity.
But Liverpool were finally rewarded for their near-complete dominance of the game in the final minute of normal time in the first half as Coutinho struck.
Collecting the ball just inside the edge of the area, the Brazilian cleverly worked space for himself and fired in a low shot in off the post to give his side a deserved lead.
However, Liverpool's celebrations were cut short as Rodgers saw his side's lead almost immediately erased by Debuchy.
The Frenchman headed in at the far post from Mathieu Flamini's nod-down after Liverpool had failed to clear a free-kick.
Neither that setback nor the lengthy delay caused by Srktel's collision with the boot of Giroud dented Liverpool's ambition to attack, Gerrard heading over with the goal at his mercy after Szceszny's ill-advised decision to challenge Raheem Sterling for a loose ball.
Liverpool were immediately punished for their captain's profligacy as Arsenal completing the turaround with a wonderful free-flowing move.
Giroud slid Santi Cazorla in down the left with a superb first-time pass and capped off the attack with a low finish under Brad Jones from the Spaniard's resulting pull back.
Borini then saw a point-blank header brilliantly tipped over the bar by Szczesny, before the Italian's high challenge on Cazorla earned him a second booking, having earlier receiving a yellow card for slamming the ball to the turf in frustration.
Yet Srktel ensured there would be a final twist in the tale, powering Lallana's delivery into the bottom-right corner to complete an eventful afternoon for the defender and offer Rodgers further hope that his players can turn their fortunes around and salvage a frustrating campaign.
Marseille 2-1 Lille: Bielsa's men stay top for Christmas
Marseille ensured they head into 2015 top of Ligue 1, having beaten Lille 2-1 in the last game of the year on Sunday.
An own goal from Nolan Roux gave the hosts a deserved lead at the Stade Velodrome, before Idrissa Gueye levelled matters in the second half. However, Belgian youngster Michy Batshuayi popped up in the 69th minute to net the winning goal.
The victory sees Marcelo Bielsa's men open up a three point lead atop of the French top-flight after Paris Saint-Germain drew 0-0 with Montpellier on Saturday.
The home side started the game the brighter of the two sides, creating several chances against a stuttering team who sit 13th in the table.
Andre-Pierre Gignac could have given his side the lead 12 minutes in when Simon Kjaer's poor clearance from a cross fell to the striker who had acres of space in the box. Instead of bringing it down, though, the France international chose to hit a shot and it spun wide.
Kjaer handed the home side another chance when another attempted clearance from Kjaer bounced to Andrew Ayew, but the centre-back was able to recover and knock it out for a corner.
Marseille took the lead shortly after the half hour mark when Florian Thauvin sent a corner low and toward the front post. The cross was a poor one, but Lille defender Roux came to clear it and the defender led with the wrong foot and ended up diverting it into his own net.
After a slow start to the second half in which Marseille had eased up on the pressure, Lille pushed forward and looked brighter, eventually equalising 15 minutes after the restart.
The ball was played out wide as they looked to exploit Marseille's high defensive line before being knocked into the box for Djibril Sidibe, who held it up and squared to Gueye who slammed it home with the aide of a deflection.
For the most part, Lille were restricted to efforts from long range, with Divock Origi, Gueye and Rio Mavuba seeing tame efforts stopped by Steve Mandanda.
That wastefulness was capitalised on by Marseille eventually, as their lead was restored shortly afterwards though, with Michy Batshuayi taking on a Thauvin cross, turning and holding off Marko Basa and blasting it past Vincent Enyeama.
Lille began to push forward once again in an attempt to try and steal a draw, but they failed to make the difference and Marseille ensured they stayed top of the table.
Marseille ensured they head into 2015 top of Ligue 1, having beaten Lille 2-1 in the last game of the year on Sunday.
An own goal from Nolan Roux gave the hosts a deserved lead at the Stade Velodrome, before Idrissa Gueye levelled matters in the second half. However, Belgian youngster Michy Batshuayi popped up in the 69th minute to net the winning goal.
The victory sees Marcelo Bielsa's men open up a three point lead atop of the French top-flight after Paris Saint-Germain drew 0-0 with Montpellier on Saturday.
The home side started the game the brighter of the two sides, creating several chances against a stuttering team who sit 13th in the table.
Andre-Pierre Gignac could have given his side the lead 12 minutes in when Simon Kjaer's poor clearance from a cross fell to the striker who had acres of space in the box. Instead of bringing it down, though, the France international chose to hit a shot and it spun wide.
Kjaer handed the home side another chance when another attempted clearance from Kjaer bounced to Andrew Ayew, but the centre-back was able to recover and knock it out for a corner.
Marseille took the lead shortly after the half hour mark when Florian Thauvin sent a corner low and toward the front post. The cross was a poor one, but Lille defender Roux came to clear it and the defender led with the wrong foot and ended up diverting it into his own net.
After a slow start to the second half in which Marseille had eased up on the pressure, Lille pushed forward and looked brighter, eventually equalising 15 minutes after the restart.
The ball was played out wide as they looked to exploit Marseille's high defensive line before being knocked into the box for Djibril Sidibe, who held it up and squared to Gueye who slammed it home with the aide of a deflection.
For the most part, Lille were restricted to efforts from long range, with Divock Origi, Gueye and Rio Mavuba seeing tame efforts stopped by Steve Mandanda.
That wastefulness was capitalised on by Marseille eventually, as their lead was restored shortly afterwards though, with Michy Batshuayi taking on a Thauvin cross, turning and holding off Marko Basa and blasting it past Vincent Enyeama.
Lille began to push forward once again in an attempt to try and steal a draw, but they failed to make the difference and Marseille ensured they stayed top of the table.
Athletic Bilbao 1-4 Atletico Madrid: Griezmann fires in hat-trick as champions storm to victory
Antoine Griezmann scored a hat-trick as Atletico Madrid came from a goal down to smash Athletic Bilbao 4-1 at San Mames on Sunday.
The former Real Sociedad man scored three goals in four La Liga games against rivals Bilbao prior to joining the Spanish champions and continued that streak as Atletico came from a goal down to end 2014 on a high.
The Champions League runners-up looked set to end a famous year with disappointment as Mikel Rico's first goal of the season handed the hosts a deserved early lead.
However, Ernesto Valverde's men failed to build on that in the remainder of a first half they largely dominated and were made to pay when Griezmann equalised less than a minute after the interval.
A slick Atleti move ended with Juanfran's delivery, allowing the France international to head the leveller, with Raul Garcia tucking home a penalty soon after.
Diego Simeone was without suspended pair Mario Mandzukic and Koke, but the lively Griezmann offered two further reminders of his quality to ensure Atleti's first win in four matches and maintain pressure on Barcelona and Real Madrid above them.
Both sides were guilty of giving away possession in a fast-paced start, with a spat between Iker Muniain and Jose Gimenez proving the main talking point of the first 10 minutes.
Gimenez - named ahead of Miranda in the centre of defence - and Muniain were involved in a number of off-the-ball incidents early on with goalscoring opportunities at a premium.
Instead, fouls and stoppages disrupted play until Mikel Rico marked his 50th La Liga appearance for Bilbao with a well-taken header.
The midfielder glanced home Markel Susaeta's free kick to open the scoring after 17 minutes, leaving Simeone visibly frustrated on the touchline.
Shorn of three key players, the champions looked out of sorts going forward as Bilbao's defensive pairing of the fit-again Xabier Etxeita and Carlos Gurpegui coped well with the threat of Griezmann and Raul Garcia.
Athletic - missing Aymeric Laporte and Ander Iturraspe due to suspension - could have made it 2-0 seven minutes before the break when Susaeta played Aritz Aduriz in on goal, but the striker was unable to produce a finish.
With the words of Simeone ringing in their ears, Atletico began the second half with added aggression and had their reward when Griezmann finished a swift break with a smart header.
They built on that momentum when a rather soft penalty given against San Jose allowed Raul Garcia put Atleti in front after 53 minutes.
Griezmann continued to prove a danger, adding his side's third from Gabi's long ball after a costly Gurpegui slip, before completing his first Atleti hat-trick with a close-range finish nine minutes from time.
It leaves Bilbao with work to do to regain a spot among their fellow European hopefuls in 2015, while Atleti stay in the hunt to defend their title going into the mid-season break.
The former Real Sociedad man scored three goals in four La Liga games against rivals Bilbao prior to joining the Spanish champions and continued that streak as Atletico came from a goal down to end 2014 on a high.
The UEFA Champions League runners-up looked set to end a famous year with disappointment as Mikel Rico's first goal of the season handed the hosts a deserved early lead.
However, Ernesto Valverde's men failed to build on that in the remainder of a first half they largely dominated and were made to pay when Griezmann equalised less than a minute after the interval.
A slick Atleti move ended with Juanfran's delivery, allowing the France international to head the leveller, with Raul Garcia tucking home a penalty soon after.
Diego Simeone was without suspended pair Mario Mandzukic and Koke, but the lively Griezmann offered two further reminders of his quality to ensure Atleti's first win in four matches and maintain pressure on Barcelona and Real Madrid above them.
Both sides were guilty of giving away possession In a fast-paced start, with a spat between Iker Muniain and Jose Gimenez proving the main talking point of the first 10 minutes.
Gimenez - named ahead of Miranda in the centre of defence - and Muniain were involved in a number of off-the-ball incidents early on with goalscoring opportunities at a premium.
Instead, fouls and stoppages disrupted play until Mikel Rico marked his 50th La Liga appearance for Bilbao with a well-taken header.
The midfielder glanced home Markel Susaeta's free-kick to open the scoring after 17 minutes, leaving Simeone visibly frustrated on the touchline.
Shorn of three key players, the champions looked out of sorts going forward as Bilbao's defensive pairing of the fit-again Xabier Etxeita and Carlos Gurpegui coped well with the threat of Griezmann and Raul Garcia.
Bilbao - missing Aymeric Laporte and Ander Iturraspe due to suspension - could have made it 2-0 seven minutes before the break when Susaeta played Aritz Aduriz in on goal, but the striker was unable to produce a finish.
With the words of Simeone ringing in their ears, Atletico began the second half with added aggression and had their reward when Griezmann finished a swift break with a smart header.
They built on that momentum when a rather soft penalty given against San Jose allowed Raul Garcia put Atleti in front after 53 minutes.
Griezmann continued to prove a danger, adding his side's third from Gabi's long ball after a costly Gurpegui slip, before completing his first Atleti hat-trick with a close-range finish nine minutes from time.
It leaves Bilbao with work to do to regain a spot among their fellow European hopefuls in 2015, while Atleti stay in the hunt to defend their title going into the mid-season break.
Antoine Griezmann scored a hat-trick as Atletico Madrid came from a goal down to smash Athletic Bilbao 4-1 at San Mames on Sunday.
The former Real Sociedad man scored three goals in four La Liga games against rivals Bilbao prior to joining the Spanish champions and continued that streak as Atletico came from a goal down to end 2014 on a high.
The Champions League runners-up looked set to end a famous year with disappointment as Mikel Rico's first goal of the season handed the hosts a deserved early lead.
However, Ernesto Valverde's men failed to build on that in the remainder of a first half they largely dominated and were made to pay when Griezmann equalised less than a minute after the interval.
A slick Atleti move ended with Juanfran's delivery, allowing the France international to head the leveller, with Raul Garcia tucking home a penalty soon after.
Diego Simeone was without suspended pair Mario Mandzukic and Koke, but the lively Griezmann offered two further reminders of his quality to ensure Atleti's first win in four matches and maintain pressure on Barcelona and Real Madrid above them.
Both sides were guilty of giving away possession in a fast-paced start, with a spat between Iker Muniain and Jose Gimenez proving the main talking point of the first 10 minutes.
Gimenez - named ahead of Miranda in the centre of defence - and Muniain were involved in a number of off-the-ball incidents early on with goalscoring opportunities at a premium.
Instead, fouls and stoppages disrupted play until Mikel Rico marked his 50th La Liga appearance for Bilbao with a well-taken header.
The midfielder glanced home Markel Susaeta's free kick to open the scoring after 17 minutes, leaving Simeone visibly frustrated on the touchline.
Shorn of three key players, the champions looked out of sorts going forward as Bilbao's defensive pairing of the fit-again Xabier Etxeita and Carlos Gurpegui coped well with the threat of Griezmann and Raul Garcia.
Athletic - missing Aymeric Laporte and Ander Iturraspe due to suspension - could have made it 2-0 seven minutes before the break when Susaeta played Aritz Aduriz in on goal, but the striker was unable to produce a finish.
With the words of Simeone ringing in their ears, Atletico began the second half with added aggression and had their reward when Griezmann finished a swift break with a smart header.
They built on that momentum when a rather soft penalty given against San Jose allowed Raul Garcia put Atleti in front after 53 minutes.
Griezmann continued to prove a danger, adding his side's third from Gabi's long ball after a costly Gurpegui slip, before completing his first Atleti hat-trick with a close-range finish nine minutes from time.
It leaves Bilbao with work to do to regain a spot among their fellow European hopefuls in 2015, while Atleti stay in the hunt to defend their title going into the mid-season break.
The former Real Sociedad man scored three goals in four La Liga games against rivals Bilbao prior to joining the Spanish champions and continued that streak as Atletico came from a goal down to end 2014 on a high.
The UEFA Champions League runners-up looked set to end a famous year with disappointment as Mikel Rico's first goal of the season handed the hosts a deserved early lead.
However, Ernesto Valverde's men failed to build on that in the remainder of a first half they largely dominated and were made to pay when Griezmann equalised less than a minute after the interval.
A slick Atleti move ended with Juanfran's delivery, allowing the France international to head the leveller, with Raul Garcia tucking home a penalty soon after.
Diego Simeone was without suspended pair Mario Mandzukic and Koke, but the lively Griezmann offered two further reminders of his quality to ensure Atleti's first win in four matches and maintain pressure on Barcelona and Real Madrid above them.
Both sides were guilty of giving away possession In a fast-paced start, with a spat between Iker Muniain and Jose Gimenez proving the main talking point of the first 10 minutes.
Gimenez - named ahead of Miranda in the centre of defence - and Muniain were involved in a number of off-the-ball incidents early on with goalscoring opportunities at a premium.
Instead, fouls and stoppages disrupted play until Mikel Rico marked his 50th La Liga appearance for Bilbao with a well-taken header.
The midfielder glanced home Markel Susaeta's free-kick to open the scoring after 17 minutes, leaving Simeone visibly frustrated on the touchline.
Shorn of three key players, the champions looked out of sorts going forward as Bilbao's defensive pairing of the fit-again Xabier Etxeita and Carlos Gurpegui coped well with the threat of Griezmann and Raul Garcia.
Bilbao - missing Aymeric Laporte and Ander Iturraspe due to suspension - could have made it 2-0 seven minutes before the break when Susaeta played Aritz Aduriz in on goal, but the striker was unable to produce a finish.
With the words of Simeone ringing in their ears, Atletico began the second half with added aggression and had their reward when Griezmann finished a swift break with a smart header.
They built on that momentum when a rather soft penalty given against San Jose allowed Raul Garcia put Atleti in front after 53 minutes.
Griezmann continued to prove a danger, adding his side's third from Gabi's long ball after a costly Gurpegui slip, before completing his first Atleti hat-trick with a close-range finish nine minutes from time.
It leaves Bilbao with work to do to regain a spot among their fellow European hopefuls in 2015, while Atleti stay in the hunt to defend their title going into the mid-season break.
Inter 2-2 Lazio: Palacio seals comeback in enthralling clash
A late goal from Rodrigo Palacio sealed a superb comeback for Inter as they drew 2-2 with Lazio on Sunday.
Roberto Mancini's side went into Sunday's game having picked up just one win from their last five league matches on home soil.
With Lazio coming off a hat-trick of victories in all competitions, it always looked likely to be a tricky test for the hosts.
Felipe Anderson's quickfire opener hardly did Inter's fragile confidence any favours, with the in-form Brazilian maintaining his hot streak after netting in two of those recent triumphs.
Mancini's head was in his hands as the 21-year-old striker doubled the advantage before the break with a second clinical finish.
However, Mateo Kovacic raised hopes of a recovery with a stunning strike just after the hour mark and Rodrigo Palacio claimed a poacher's goal to level 10 minutes from time.
Inter made just one change from last Monday's 2-0 win at Chievo, with Brazilian defender Dodo coming in for Chile international Gary Medel.
After beating Atalanta 3-0 at home eight days ago, Lazio replaced Alvaro Gonzalez and Filip Djordjevic with Miroslav Klose and Marco Parolo.
The visitors stormed into the lead after just two minutes when Stefan Radu whipped in a cross which Anderson controlled superbly before firing past Samir Handanovic.
Anderson could have had another just four minutes later but volleyed over the bar, while Federico Marchetti got down well to save a long-range Fredy Guarin effort at the other end.
Another well-struck Guarin shot flew just wide from 25 yards out soon after the half-hour mark, but it was Lazio who hit the target again next eight minutes before the break.
Loose play from Andrea Ranocchia allowed the away side to counter-attack as Klose's headed flick-on found Anderson, who cut in from the left past some flimsy tackling before wrong-footing the goalkeeper with a low shot.
Medel was introduced at the expense of Dodo just before the break and Inter tried to rally after the interval by getting more men and a number of crosses into the box.
Mauro Icardi should have done better after being set up by Kovacic and Marchetti had to dive at full stretch to keep out a deflected Zdravko Kuzmanovic effort.
However, Marchetti could not stop Kovacic's thunderous volley from the edge of the area hitting the back of the net after Lazio failed to sufficiently clear a 66th-minute corner.
That strike lifted the home crowd, who went wild 14 minutes later when Palacio pounced on a Danilo D'Ambrosio nod down from substitute Federico Bonazzoli's free kick.
A late goal from Rodrigo Palacio sealed a superb comeback for Inter as they drew 2-2 with Lazio on Sunday.
Roberto Mancini's side went into Sunday's game having picked up just one win from their last five league matches on home soil.
With Lazio coming off a hat-trick of victories in all competitions, it always looked likely to be a tricky test for the hosts.
Felipe Anderson's quickfire opener hardly did Inter's fragile confidence any favours, with the in-form Brazilian maintaining his hot streak after netting in two of those recent triumphs.
Mancini's head was in his hands as the 21-year-old striker doubled the advantage before the break with a second clinical finish.
However, Mateo Kovacic raised hopes of a recovery with a stunning strike just after the hour mark and Rodrigo Palacio claimed a poacher's goal to level 10 minutes from time.
Inter made just one change from last Monday's 2-0 win at Chievo, with Brazilian defender Dodo coming in for Chile international Gary Medel.
After beating Atalanta 3-0 at home eight days ago, Lazio replaced Alvaro Gonzalez and Filip Djordjevic with Miroslav Klose and Marco Parolo.
The visitors stormed into the lead after just two minutes when Stefan Radu whipped in a cross which Anderson controlled superbly before firing past Samir Handanovic.
Anderson could have had another just four minutes later but volleyed over the bar, while Federico Marchetti got down well to save a long-range Fredy Guarin effort at the other end.
Another well-struck Guarin shot flew just wide from 25 yards out soon after the half-hour mark, but it was Lazio who hit the target again next eight minutes before the break.
Loose play from Andrea Ranocchia allowed the away side to counter-attack as Klose's headed flick-on found Anderson, who cut in from the left past some flimsy tackling before wrong-footing the goalkeeper with a low shot.
Medel was introduced at the expense of Dodo just before the break and Inter tried to rally after the interval by getting more men and a number of crosses into the box.
Mauro Icardi should have done better after being set up by Kovacic and Marchetti had to dive at full stretch to keep out a deflected Zdravko Kuzmanovic effort.
However, Marchetti could not stop Kovacic's thunderous volley from the edge of the area hitting the back of the net after Lazio failed to sufficiently clear a 66th-minute corner.
That strike lifted the home crowd, who went wild 14 minutes later when Palacio pounced on a Danilo D'Ambrosio nod down from substitute Federico Bonazzoli's free kick.
Griezmann offers something different for AtleticGriezmann offers something different for Atletico - Simeoneo - Simeone
Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone believes Antoine Griezmann's hard work is paying off after he scored a hat-trick against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.
Mikel Rico put the home side ahead in the first half but the France attacker inspired a turnaround in the second period at San Mames, with his brilliant treble leading the champions to a 4-1 win.
Simeone felt Griezmann's qualities were vital for his side to find a way back into the match after they struggled early on without suspended duo Mario Mandzukic and Koke.
"It was a changeable game. Athletic were good in the first half, in the second we felt strong and intense," the Argentine told reporters after the match.
"Griezmann was the player we needed in the team. He was different, and his work every day has been noticed.
"It was tough to adapt to the losses of Mandzukic and Koke in the first half, but in the second we calmed down and we concluded an amazing 2014."
Raul Garcia scored a controversial penalty for his side after Tiago went over in the area under minimal contact, but Simeone refused to be drawn on the performance of the officials.
"The other day I had no opinion on the referee's performance, and I don't today, either," he added.
Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone believes Antoine Griezmann's hard work is paying off after he scored a hat-trick against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.
Mikel Rico put the home side ahead in the first half but the France attacker inspired a turnaround in the second period at San Mames, with his brilliant treble leading the champions to a 4-1 win.
Simeone felt Griezmann's qualities were vital for his side to find a way back into the match after they struggled early on without suspended duo Mario Mandzukic and Koke.
"It was a changeable game. Athletic were good in the first half, in the second we felt strong and intense," the Argentine told reporters after the match.
"Griezmann was the player we needed in the team. He was different, and his work every day has been noticed.
"It was tough to adapt to the losses of Mandzukic and Koke in the first half, but in the second we calmed down and we concluded an amazing 2014."
Raul Garcia scored a controversial penalty for his side after Tiago went over in the area under minimal contact, but Simeone refused to be drawn on the performance of the officials.
"The other day I had no opinion on the referee's performance, and I don't today, either," he added.
Mancini admits Cerci interest as Lennon rumours are dismissed
Inter head coach Roberto Mancini has dismissed reports linking the Serie A side with a move for Tottenham winger Aaron Lennon - but admits he is a fan of Alessio Cerci.
The Italian outfit are expected to be active in the January transfer window after a moderate first half of the season which has left them lying in 11th place.
Reports have linked Inter with a possible move for Lennon next month, though director Piero Ausilio stated earlier on Sunday that there had been no talks concerning the England international.
And Mancini has confirmed he is not looking to the Spurs man as a transfer option, though he did suggest Atletico Madrid forward Cerci was a more viable target.
After drawing 2-2 with Lazio, Mancini told reporters: "Lennon? We have not talked about him. This is not part of our plans, but there will probably be other players if we can get them.
"Cerci? He's a possibility, but we'll have to wait. He's an Atletico Madrid player. We certainly lack players of a top level in that role.
"However, the team must continue to work regardless of any purchases. We have to find the right continuity for the whole of the game and this can only be done by working."
Inter have only won one of their past six home games in Serie A after Felipe Anderson's double put Lazio in control at half-time before Mateo Kovacic and Rodrigo Palacio hit back.
"We made mistakes and we make two steps forward, but one step back," added Mancini. "But it will take time and I have to improve so many areas.
"I never thought we could change everything in a month and we would become Bayern Munich or Barcelona.
"There is a little fear there at San Siro, especially when things go wrong. We have to overcome this, but we'll make it."
Inter head coach Roberto Mancini has dismissed reports linking the Serie A side with a move for Tottenham winger Aaron Lennon - but admits he is a fan of Alessio Cerci.
The Italian outfit are expected to be active in the January transfer window after a moderate first half of the season which has left them lying in 11th place.
Reports have linked Inter with a possible move for Lennon next month, though director Piero Ausilio stated earlier on Sunday that there had been no talks concerning the England international.
And Mancini has confirmed he is not looking to the Spurs man as a transfer option, though he did suggest Atletico Madrid forward Cerci was a more viable target.
After drawing 2-2 with Lazio, Mancini told reporters: "Lennon? We have not talked about him. This is not part of our plans, but there will probably be other players if we can get them.
"Cerci? He's a possibility, but we'll have to wait. He's an Atletico Madrid player. We certainly lack players of a top level in that role.
"However, the team must continue to work regardless of any purchases. We have to find the right continuity for the whole of the game and this can only be done by working."
Inter have only won one of their past six home games in Serie A after Felipe Anderson's double put Lazio in control at half-time before Mateo Kovacic and Rodrigo Palacio hit back.
"We made mistakes and we make two steps forward, but one step back," added Mancini. "But it will take time and I have to improve so many areas.
"I never thought we could change everything in a month and we would become Bayern Munich or Barcelona.
"There is a little fear there at San Siro, especially when things go wrong. We have to overcome this, but we'll make it."
Hummels: Dortmund have been pathetic
Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels says that his side's form in the opening half of the season has been "pathetic".
Jurgen Klopp's side sit joint-bottom of the Bundesliga going into the winter break following Saturday's 2-1 loss to Werder Bremen, despite their impressive Champions League form.
Hummels, who was appointed captain in the summer, believes that injuries to key players, including himself and Marco Reus, have contributed to their slump and says there is no guarantee that things will improve.
"It's pretty astonishing that we are so pathetic," he told reporters.
"There is no guarantee that it will get better. There just isn't. Almost every key player was injured in the first round [of the season].
"We have played as badly as imaginable. We're very concerned. The way we're playing, we're right down there.
"If we have all the strongest players back by the end of January, then it will be different. But there's no guarantee of that.
"Three or four important players could get injured. Then we'll have to deal with it differently from in the first round."
Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels says that his side's form in the opening half of the season has been "pathetic".
Jurgen Klopp's side sit joint-bottom of the Bundesliga going into the winter break following Saturday's 2-1 loss to Werder Bremen, despite their impressive Champions League form.
Hummels, who was appointed captain in the summer, believes that injuries to key players, including himself and Marco Reus, have contributed to their slump and says there is no guarantee that things will improve.
"It's pretty astonishing that we are so pathetic," he told reporters.
"There is no guarantee that it will get better. There just isn't. Almost every key player was injured in the first round [of the season].
"We have played as badly as imaginable. We're very concerned. The way we're playing, we're right down there.
"If we have all the strongest players back by the end of January, then it will be different. But there's no guarantee of that.
"Three or four important players could get injured. Then we'll have to deal with it differently from in the first round."
Hat-trick hero Griezmann: I can get even better for Atletico
Antoine Griezmann admits his display against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday was his finest since joining Atletico Madrid - but is confident he can get even better.
Mikel Rico put the home side in front before the champions stormed to victory in the second half, with the France international bagging a hat-trick in the 4-1 triumph.
Griezmann believes there is little doubt it was his best performance to date for Atletico but feels he is capable of even more.
"It was my best game since I came here, I have to continue like that and keep working. Hopefully this will be my regular standard, or maybe I can give more," he was quoted as saying by AS after the match.
"We were fairly bad in the first half. The coach told us the necessary words during the break and the second half has gone better.
"[Diego] Simeone told us to enjoy it, to give everything and finish the year well, which has been fantastic.
"My best goal? I'll just take all three."
Griezmann refuted the idea that he was more motivated against Athletic following his spell with Basque rivals Real Sociedad, stressing that he is always desperate to impress his coach.
"Every game motivates me, I have to take advantage of all the minutes the boss gives me," he added.
Atletico's win moves them back to within four points of Liga leaders Real Madrid.
Antoine Griezmann admits his display against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday was his finest since joining Atletico Madrid - but is confident he can get even better.
Mikel Rico put the home side in front before the champions stormed to victory in the second half, with the France international bagging a hat-trick in the 4-1 triumph.
Griezmann believes there is little doubt it was his best performance to date for Atletico but feels he is capable of even more.
"It was my best game since I came here, I have to continue like that and keep working. Hopefully this will be my regular standard, or maybe I can give more," he was quoted as saying by AS after the match.
"We were fairly bad in the first half. The coach told us the necessary words during the break and the second half has gone better.
"[Diego] Simeone told us to enjoy it, to give everything and finish the year well, which has been fantastic.
"My best goal? I'll just take all three."
Griezmann refuted the idea that he was more motivated against Athletic following his spell with Basque rivals Real Sociedad, stressing that he is always desperate to impress his coach.
"Every game motivates me, I have to take advantage of all the minutes the boss gives me," he added.
Atletico's win moves them back to within four points of Liga leaders Real Madrid.
Sturridge on course for January return - Rodgers
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers expects striker Daniel Sturridge to return from a long-term thigh injury in early January.
The England international has managed only three appearances for his club this season after picking up a thigh injury on international duty in September.
Having returned to training, Sturridge suffered a setback in November and is currently in Boston continuing his rehabilitation programme.
Sturridge was a key figure in Liverpool's ultimately unsuccessful Premier League title bid last season and, without him, Rodgers' side have struggled for form this term.
However, after a week in which his side booked a League Cup semi-final berth and gained a dramatic point against Arsenal, the Northern Irishman revealed Sturridge was on course for a January return.
Asked by reporters when Sturridge was likely to be back in action, Rodgers explained: "That will probably be just after the Christmas period.
"The first phase of his rehab was out in LA where we did some specific work with him there.
"He's gone to Boston to pick up the next stage, then he'll move on again to a specialist facility out there and hopefully in the early part of the new year he'll be back and be somewhere close to being fit and playing.
"At some stage in January, we'll look to get Dan back. That will be really exciting for this team.
"We'll put him into the mix again and go back to that flow of our game and results, hopefully."
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers expects striker Daniel Sturridge to return from a long-term thigh injury in early January.
The England international has managed only three appearances for his club this season after picking up a thigh injury on international duty in September.
Having returned to training, Sturridge suffered a setback in November and is currently in Boston continuing his rehabilitation programme.
Sturridge was a key figure in Liverpool's ultimately unsuccessful Premier League title bid last season and, without him, Rodgers' side have struggled for form this term.
However, after a week in which his side booked a League Cup semi-final berth and gained a dramatic point against Arsenal, the Northern Irishman revealed Sturridge was on course for a January return.
Asked by reporters when Sturridge was likely to be back in action, Rodgers explained: "That will probably be just after the Christmas period.
"The first phase of his rehab was out in LA where we did some specific work with him there.
"He's gone to Boston to pick up the next stage, then he'll move on again to a specialist facility out there and hopefully in the early part of the new year he'll be back and be somewhere close to being fit and playing.
"At some stage in January, we'll look to get Dan back. That will be really exciting for this team.
"We'll put him into the mix again and go back to that flow of our game and results, hopefully."
Xavi: I'd never join Real Madrid
Barcelona veteran Xavi says he is confident he made the right choice to stay at the club this summer - and claims he could never consider moving to Real Madrid.
The 34-year-old came close to quitting Camp Nou prior to the start of the season but was ultimately convinced by Luis Enrique that he still had a valuable part to play in the success of the club.
The former Spain star claims he has no desire to move on at the end of the current campaign despite competition for places - and suggests Madrid would be the last place he could consider moving to.
"I'm a fanatic for Barcelona. I wouldn't be happy in Madrid. I'm from Barcelona, that's the truth. I can't deceive anyone," he told reporters in Egypt.
"I'm in the place I wanted and always dreamed about, which is FC Barcelona. I consider myself very lucky. Football is my life and not leaving Barcelona was my best choice.
"I don't want to leave Barcelona at all. I want to continue to the end. We agreed last summer on one more year and I'm now more comfortable.
"I want to continue as long as I can. I don't know when I will take my decision. Many new players joined the club and our goal is to have a strong Barca even if it means I sit on the bench."
Barcelona have struggled for consistent form under Luis Enrique this season as they look to put their disappointing campaign under Gerardo Martino behind them.
While he is confident they can win silverware in 2015, Xavi admits it will be difficult to return to the standards set under Pep Guardiola during their dominant spell between 2008 and 2012.
"Guardiola's era was wonderful, then we remained competitive in Tito's era. We didn't win trophies last year but this year we can make it," he said.
"It's hard to repeat the Guardiola era achievements as the other teams are discovering us and study our system, so it's hard to move back to the same enjoyable style.
"We had a good match against Cordoba. Real Madrid are a very good team but we will work hard to improve our level and continue to get our goals at the end."
Xavi admits he remains uncertain what he will do once he retires from the game, but is certain he will not turn his back on football.
"I don't know what I'll do after retirement. I might be a sporting director, maybe a coach, maybe a kids' trainer. What matters is that it's related to football."
Finally, the midfield maestro was asked who the best player was he has ever played alongside, and he was unequivocal in his response.
"[Lionel] Messi," he said. "I can't judge the history [of football] but Messi is the best I played with."
Barcelona veteran Xavi says he is confident he made the right choice to stay at the club this summer - and claims he could never consider moving to Real Madrid.
The 34-year-old came close to quitting Camp Nou prior to the start of the season but was ultimately convinced by Luis Enrique that he still had a valuable part to play in the success of the club.
The former Spain star claims he has no desire to move on at the end of the current campaign despite competition for places - and suggests Madrid would be the last place he could consider moving to.
"I'm a fanatic for Barcelona. I wouldn't be happy in Madrid. I'm from Barcelona, that's the truth. I can't deceive anyone," he told reporters in Egypt.
"I'm in the place I wanted and always dreamed about, which is FC Barcelona. I consider myself very lucky. Football is my life and not leaving Barcelona was my best choice.
"I don't want to leave Barcelona at all. I want to continue to the end. We agreed last summer on one more year and I'm now more comfortable.
"I want to continue as long as I can. I don't know when I will take my decision. Many new players joined the club and our goal is to have a strong Barca even if it means I sit on the bench."
Barcelona have struggled for consistent form under Luis Enrique this season as they look to put their disappointing campaign under Gerardo Martino behind them.
While he is confident they can win silverware in 2015, Xavi admits it will be difficult to return to the standards set under Pep Guardiola during their dominant spell between 2008 and 2012.
"Guardiola's era was wonderful, then we remained competitive in Tito's era. We didn't win trophies last year but this year we can make it," he said.
"It's hard to repeat the Guardiola era achievements as the other teams are discovering us and study our system, so it's hard to move back to the same enjoyable style.
"We had a good match against Cordoba. Real Madrid are a very good team but we will work hard to improve our level and continue to get our goals at the end."
Xavi admits he remains uncertain what he will do once he retires from the game, but is certain he will not turn his back on football.
"I don't know what I'll do after retirement. I might be a sporting director, maybe a coach, maybe a kids' trainer. What matters is that it's related to football."
Finally, the midfield maestro was asked who the best player was he has ever played alongside, and he was unequivocal in his response.
"[Lionel] Messi," he said. "I can't judge the history [of football] but Messi is the best I played with."
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