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Mourinho: I have high hopes for Cuadrado
Jose Mourinho insists that Juan Cuadrado will not be leaving Chelsea this summer adding that he is expecting big things from the Colombian next season.
The 27-year-old has struggled to make an impact since his €33 million move from Fiorentina in January, with Mourinho's judgement questioned after Mohamed Salah, included as part of the deal, excelled on loan in Italy.
After starting just four Premier League games and racking up only 316 minutes of action in his maiden campaign, Cuadrado had been heavily linked with an immediate move away amid rumoured interest from Inter.
But Mourinho has no intention of giving up on the Colombian so early in his Chelsea career and hopes that a strong Copa America campaign could boost his confidence ahead of the Blues' title defence next season.
"Cuadrado is not going anywhere this summer," Mourinho told DirecTV Sports.
"People don't know Cuadrado yet, I have seen him many times when we were both in Italy, me at Inter and him at Udinese.
"Because of that I have a lot of hopes for him for next season. I hope in the Copa America he can regain his self-esteem, his ego and that he has that joy of playing."
Cuadrado shone at last summer's World Cup and carried that form into the 2014-15 Serie A campaign, bagging four goals and three assists in 17 outings, but created just one goal after moving to west London.
Jose Mourinho insists that Juan Cuadrado will not be leaving Chelsea this summer adding that he is expecting big things from the Colombian next season.
The 27-year-old has struggled to make an impact since his €33 million move from Fiorentina in January, with Mourinho's judgement questioned after Mohamed Salah, included as part of the deal, excelled on loan in Italy.
After starting just four Premier League games and racking up only 316 minutes of action in his maiden campaign, Cuadrado had been heavily linked with an immediate move away amid rumoured interest from Inter.
But Mourinho has no intention of giving up on the Colombian so early in his Chelsea career and hopes that a strong Copa America campaign could boost his confidence ahead of the Blues' title defence next season.
"Cuadrado is not going anywhere this summer," Mourinho told DirecTV Sports.
"People don't know Cuadrado yet, I have seen him many times when we were both in Italy, me at Inter and him at Udinese.
"Because of that I have a lot of hopes for him for next season. I hope in the Copa America he can regain his self-esteem, his ego and that he has that joy of playing."
Cuadrado shone at last summer's World Cup and carried that form into the 2014-15 Serie A campaign, bagging four goals and three assists in 17 outings, but created just one goal after moving to west London.
Brazil 1-0 Honduras: Roberto Firmino downs los Catrachos
Roberto Firmino hit the only goal of the game on Wednesday as Brazil edged a stubborn Honduras 1-0 in their final pre-Copa America warm-up match.
The Hoffenheim forward continued the impressive start to his senior international career in an otherwise rusty performance that saw coach Dunga visibly frustrated on the sidelines in Porto Alegre.
Firmino struck in the 33rd minute after a rampaging run down the left from Filipe Luis, latching onto the Chelsea defender's through pass to finish smartly between the legs of Honduras goalkeeper Noel Valladares.Since making his debut in November, Firmino has played six matches for Brazil and scored three goals.
Wednesday's win was Brazil's 10th in a row and comes just three days after they saw off Mexico 2-0 in Sao Paulo.It also saw Dunga maintain his perfect record in his second stint in charge since taking over after last year's World Cup.
The hosts became more dominant as the match wore on at the Estadio Jose Pinheiro Borda, finishing the game with 65 per cent possession and 15 shots to Honduras' seven, but were unable to build on their lead.
Honduras made it difficult for the home side by adopting a physical approach, with the visitors conceding 22 fouls, though Dunga will want to see more a cutting edge from his side when his team start their Copa America campaign against Peru on Sunday.
Captain Neymar returned after missing the match with Mexico due to his club commitments with Barcelona and was introduced at half-time.
With the CONCACAF Gold Cup looming next month, Honduras coach Jorge Luis Pinto has just one more friendly to prepare his team, as they host Mexico on July 1.
Roberto Firmino hit the only goal of the game on Wednesday as Brazil edged a stubborn Honduras 1-0 in their final pre-Copa America warm-up match.
The Hoffenheim forward continued the impressive start to his senior international career in an otherwise rusty performance that saw coach Dunga visibly frustrated on the sidelines in Porto Alegre.
Firmino struck in the 33rd minute after a rampaging run down the left from Filipe Luis, latching onto the Chelsea defender's through pass to finish smartly between the legs of Honduras goalkeeper Noel Valladares.Since making his debut in November, Firmino has played six matches for Brazil and scored three goals.
Wednesday's win was Brazil's 10th in a row and comes just three days after they saw off Mexico 2-0 in Sao Paulo.It also saw Dunga maintain his perfect record in his second stint in charge since taking over after last year's World Cup.
The hosts became more dominant as the match wore on at the Estadio Jose Pinheiro Borda, finishing the game with 65 per cent possession and 15 shots to Honduras' seven, but were unable to build on their lead.
Honduras made it difficult for the home side by adopting a physical approach, with the visitors conceding 22 fouls, though Dunga will want to see more a cutting edge from his side when his team start their Copa America campaign against Peru on Sunday.
Captain Neymar returned after missing the match with Mexico due to his club commitments with Barcelona and was introduced at half-time.
With the CONCACAF Gold Cup looming next month, Honduras coach Jorge Luis Pinto has just one more friendly to prepare his team, as they host Mexico on July 1.
Berlusconi: Ibrahimovic could help Milan
The son of AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi believes Zlatan Ibrahimovic could "still give the club a lot" if he returns this summer.The 33-year-old left Milan for Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2012 as the Rossoneri sold several big name players in a bid to balance the books.
Since then, Ibrahimovic has gone on to win three Ligue 1 titles in France, while Milan have finished in eighth and 10th place in Serie A in the two seasons since his exit.
However, the striker has entered the final 12 months of his contract at PSG and been tipped for a second spell at San Siro, with Piero Berlusconi doing little to dampen the speculation."I've always liked him [Ibrahimovic] as a player, and I think he could still give us a lot," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Meanwhile, former Inter defender Sinisa Mihajlovic is the favourite to replace Filippo Inzaghi as Milan coach after the club stated he wouldn't be in charge next season and Berlusconi believes he is the right man to take the club forward. He added: "Mihajlovic arriving will be excellent. He seems to be the right man for the job."
The Serb - who resigned as Sampdoria boss a week ago - once remarked he would never take charge of Milan while he was with the Nerazzurri, but Berlusconi played down the significance of his comments: "He said that during a very different time."
Milan are expected to have greater financial resources at their disposal this summer as Thai investor Bee Taechaubol prepares to complete the purchase of a 48 per cent stake in the club.
The son of AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi believes Zlatan Ibrahimovic could "still give the club a lot" if he returns this summer.The 33-year-old left Milan for Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2012 as the Rossoneri sold several big name players in a bid to balance the books.
Since then, Ibrahimovic has gone on to win three Ligue 1 titles in France, while Milan have finished in eighth and 10th place in Serie A in the two seasons since his exit.
However, the striker has entered the final 12 months of his contract at PSG and been tipped for a second spell at San Siro, with Piero Berlusconi doing little to dampen the speculation."I've always liked him [Ibrahimovic] as a player, and I think he could still give us a lot," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Meanwhile, former Inter defender Sinisa Mihajlovic is the favourite to replace Filippo Inzaghi as Milan coach after the club stated he wouldn't be in charge next season and Berlusconi believes he is the right man to take the club forward. He added: "Mihajlovic arriving will be excellent. He seems to be the right man for the job."
The Serb - who resigned as Sampdoria boss a week ago - once remarked he would never take charge of Milan while he was with the Nerazzurri, but Berlusconi played down the significance of his comments: "He said that during a very different time."
Milan are expected to have greater financial resources at their disposal this summer as Thai investor Bee Taechaubol prepares to complete the purchase of a 48 per cent stake in the club.
Wilshere accepts FA charge for Tottenham taunts
Jack Wilshere has accepted a Football Association misconduct charge for starting a foul-mouthed chant about rivals Tottenham during Arsenal's FA Cup celebrations.
The midfielder caused controversy as the Gunners toured north London in an open-top bus, grabbing a microphone and shouting "What do you think of Tottenham?" with supporters replying "s***".
The taunt continued, with Wilshere being informed while on England duty that he faced disciplinary action, despite apologising for his actions in a post on Twitter, and the 23-year-old admitted surprise at the charge.
Wilshere has been warned by Arsenal regarding similar behaviour in the past and requested a non-personal hearing and will now wait for the decision of an independent disciplinary commission over a fine or suspension.
The midfielder, who is currently on international duty, is expected to feature for England against Slovenia on Sunday.
Jack Wilshere has accepted a Football Association misconduct charge for starting a foul-mouthed chant about rivals Tottenham during Arsenal's FA Cup celebrations.
The midfielder caused controversy as the Gunners toured north London in an open-top bus, grabbing a microphone and shouting "What do you think of Tottenham?" with supporters replying "s***".
The taunt continued, with Wilshere being informed while on England duty that he faced disciplinary action, despite apologising for his actions in a post on Twitter, and the 23-year-old admitted surprise at the charge.
Wilshere has been warned by Arsenal regarding similar behaviour in the past and requested a non-personal hearing and will now wait for the decision of an independent disciplinary commission over a fine or suspension.
The midfielder, who is currently on international duty, is expected to feature for England against Slovenia on Sunday.
Sakho: I'll be at Liverpool next season
Mamadou Sakho has ruled out a summer move from Liverpool, adding he still has much to prove in the Premier League.
The 25-year-old joined Brendan Rodgers's team from Paris Saint-Germain in 2013 in a deal worth €20.6 million, but is yet to nail down a regular first-team berth, with just 16 starts in an injury-affected season.
Despite that, Sakho - who is with the France national team ahead of a friendly against Albania on Saturday - has no plans to look for a new club and hopes to improve on his first two years at Anfield.
"Not at all, I feel good at Liverpool, I play," he told reporters. "Yes, I had many physical problems this season, but I'm fit, I have my spot, and I produced good performances despite everything.
"I like Liverpool, next season I'll still be a red, because I still have to prove many things over there. I like the club, it's a young and skilled team. I hope to achieve great things with this club."
Mamadou Sakho has ruled out a summer move from Liverpool, adding he still has much to prove in the Premier League.
The 25-year-old joined Brendan Rodgers's team from Paris Saint-Germain in 2013 in a deal worth €20.6 million, but is yet to nail down a regular first-team berth, with just 16 starts in an injury-affected season.
Despite that, Sakho - who is with the France national team ahead of a friendly against Albania on Saturday - has no plans to look for a new club and hopes to improve on his first two years at Anfield.
"Not at all, I feel good at Liverpool, I play," he told reporters. "Yes, I had many physical problems this season, but I'm fit, I have my spot, and I produced good performances despite everything.
"I like Liverpool, next season I'll still be a red, because I still have to prove many things over there. I like the club, it's a young and skilled team. I hope to achieve great things with this club."
Barcelona wanted me to replace Xavi, reveals Koke
Atletico Madrid star Koke has revealed Barcelona approached him last summer after identifying him as Xavi's long term successor.
The 23-year-old is a product of Atletico's academy and made his debut as a 17-year-old against Barca back in 2009, before establishing himself as one of Spain's finest midfielders.
Koke has long been rumoured to be a target of Manchester United, but revealed Barcelona moved for him 12 months ago.
"Last summer I knew there was an interest from Barcelona in me. But my head was at Atletico Madrid," he told Goal . "I grew up here, and did not have that need to go. I'm very comfortable here, and for now I don't see the need to go.
"Real Madrid also tried to prise me away when I was with the Under-16 team. But Atletico said it would not happen. And thank God, I'm still here. Hopefully I can be a one-club man and win a lot with Atletico.
"The goodbyes to [Steven] Gerrard and Xavi [when each left Liverpool and Barcelona respectively] were spectacular. They only played for the same club in their careers, and it was very beautiful."Koke was also keen play down his tag as the 'new Xavi', but admitted the veteran has been a role model for him throughout his formative years.
"Me, the 'new Xavi'? In the end, there is not going to be a 'new Xavi', or 'new Iniesta', or 'new whatever'," the Spain international continued. "I hope to be remembered as Koke.
"Still, Xavi has been a reference for me. I shared a year with him in the [national] team, and learnt many things from him. For me, it is an honour to have shared that time with him."
Koke is also hopeful he will return to his favoured central midfield berth next term after operating out wide for much of last season."I was not as good as I could have been last term," he concluded. " There were so many games being played, after three or four years in which we gave everything.
"I am ready to play as a central midfielder next season, as Cholo [Simeone] recently said. His philosphy is playing to win, to give everything in each game and wanting to win every one.
"Maybe there was a slight downturn at the end, not only with me but the whole group. So perhaps that's why Simeone is looking to change things at Atletico."
Atletico Madrid star Koke has revealed Barcelona approached him last summer after identifying him as Xavi's long term successor.
The 23-year-old is a product of Atletico's academy and made his debut as a 17-year-old against Barca back in 2009, before establishing himself as one of Spain's finest midfielders.
Koke has long been rumoured to be a target of Manchester United, but revealed Barcelona moved for him 12 months ago.
"Last summer I knew there was an interest from Barcelona in me. But my head was at Atletico Madrid," he told Goal . "I grew up here, and did not have that need to go. I'm very comfortable here, and for now I don't see the need to go.
"Real Madrid also tried to prise me away when I was with the Under-16 team. But Atletico said it would not happen. And thank God, I'm still here. Hopefully I can be a one-club man and win a lot with Atletico.
"The goodbyes to [Steven] Gerrard and Xavi [when each left Liverpool and Barcelona respectively] were spectacular. They only played for the same club in their careers, and it was very beautiful."Koke was also keen play down his tag as the 'new Xavi', but admitted the veteran has been a role model for him throughout his formative years.
"Me, the 'new Xavi'? In the end, there is not going to be a 'new Xavi', or 'new Iniesta', or 'new whatever'," the Spain international continued. "I hope to be remembered as Koke.
"Still, Xavi has been a reference for me. I shared a year with him in the [national] team, and learnt many things from him. For me, it is an honour to have shared that time with him."
Koke is also hopeful he will return to his favoured central midfield berth next term after operating out wide for much of last season."I was not as good as I could have been last term," he concluded. " There were so many games being played, after three or four years in which we gave everything.
"I am ready to play as a central midfielder next season, as Cholo [Simeone] recently said. His philosphy is playing to win, to give everything in each game and wanting to win every one.
"Maybe there was a slight downturn at the end, not only with me but the whole group. So perhaps that's why Simeone is looking to change things at Atletico."
Ozil targets Premier League title with Arsenal next season
Mesut Ozil has targeted winning the Premier League title with Arsenal next season.
After suffering a worst start to a campaign for over 30 years, the Gunners yet again failed to mount a credible challenge for top spot as Chelsea claimed a first league crown in five years in dominant fashion.
Ozil, though, feels a number of injuries to first-team players - including the likes of himself, Theo Walcott and Jack Wilshere - hampered Arsenal's progress but is now confident of improvement home and abroad.
"We had bad luck with injuries this season," he is quoted as saying by Kicker. "But next season we can win the Premier League and go further in the Champions League."
Ozil missed three months of the season, which he calls his "hardest", with a knee ligament injury but returned as Arsenal won 13 of their last 17 league games to finish first and retained the FA Cup.
He said: "It was a very long season. I guess it was the hardest in my career. The first time in my life I had to deal with a serious injury. It feel it was a consequence of playing a lot games without a break over years.
"I was happy with the second half of the season. I wanted to show everybody that I'm back. Winning the FA Cup means it was a successful year. I'm proud of that win.
"My best moment [of the season] was the first game back after my injury against Stoke City. The fans cheered a lot when I was brought on. That was a brilliant feeling and helped me a lot.
"From then on I understood: no matter what happened, the club and the fans are always with me.
"But the most important thing is the opinion of my coach. I have a lot more self-confidence when he is with me. I always had that feeling with Arsene Wenger."
Ozil has been deployed in a number of different position this season, across midfield and even as a slighter deeper central role to his preferred No.10, but is happy to perform whereever needed.
"My favourite position is No.10 but I would never try to play for myself or to persuade my coach," he added.
"Marco Reus had bad luck with an injury just before the world Cup so I had to play as a winger. I could've played much better elsewhere, but that wasn't important because we worked as a team."
Mesut Ozil has targeted winning the Premier League title with Arsenal next season.
After suffering a worst start to a campaign for over 30 years, the Gunners yet again failed to mount a credible challenge for top spot as Chelsea claimed a first league crown in five years in dominant fashion.
Ozil, though, feels a number of injuries to first-team players - including the likes of himself, Theo Walcott and Jack Wilshere - hampered Arsenal's progress but is now confident of improvement home and abroad.
"We had bad luck with injuries this season," he is quoted as saying by Kicker. "But next season we can win the Premier League and go further in the Champions League."
Ozil missed three months of the season, which he calls his "hardest", with a knee ligament injury but returned as Arsenal won 13 of their last 17 league games to finish first and retained the FA Cup.
He said: "It was a very long season. I guess it was the hardest in my career. The first time in my life I had to deal with a serious injury. It feel it was a consequence of playing a lot games without a break over years.
"I was happy with the second half of the season. I wanted to show everybody that I'm back. Winning the FA Cup means it was a successful year. I'm proud of that win.
"My best moment [of the season] was the first game back after my injury against Stoke City. The fans cheered a lot when I was brought on. That was a brilliant feeling and helped me a lot.
"From then on I understood: no matter what happened, the club and the fans are always with me.
"But the most important thing is the opinion of my coach. I have a lot more self-confidence when he is with me. I always had that feeling with Arsene Wenger."
Ozil has been deployed in a number of different position this season, across midfield and even as a slighter deeper central role to his preferred No.10, but is happy to perform whereever needed.
"My favourite position is No.10 but I would never try to play for myself or to persuade my coach," he added.
"Marco Reus had bad luck with an injury just before the world Cup so I had to play as a winger. I could've played much better elsewhere, but that wasn't important because we worked as a team."
Khedira asked me about Juventus before joining, confirms Morata
Juventus striker Alvaro Morata has revealed his former Real Madrid team-mate Sami Khedira called him for advice ahead of his move to Turin.
The pair played together before Morata moved to the Bianconeri last summer after failing to nail down a first team place at the Bernabeu, with Khedira facing the same problem for much of last season.
Madrid allowed the Germany international to run down his contract and he opted to sign a four-year deal with Juventus after speaking to Morata about life in Italy.
"Khedira asked me a lot about the club before he joined," Morata told Marca. "I'm glad he's here, he's a great signing."
Morata also reflected on his first year at the club and thanked his team-mates for helping him to adjust to his new surroundings.
"It was not just my year here but the year of the team that led to a fourth successive Scudetto. We have formed a great group here and my team-mates took care of me upon my arrival."It's felt like we've been playing together for four or five years."
The Spain international has recently been linked with a move back to Madrid but insists he hasn't spoken to anyone at the club about a possible return."He [Benitez] has not called me," the 22-year-old continued. "I am delighted to be at Juventus.
"I have matured not just as a player but in various aspects of my life as well here. I feel indebted to this club and want to win many more trophies."
Juventus striker Alvaro Morata has revealed his former Real Madrid team-mate Sami Khedira called him for advice ahead of his move to Turin.
The pair played together before Morata moved to the Bianconeri last summer after failing to nail down a first team place at the Bernabeu, with Khedira facing the same problem for much of last season.
Madrid allowed the Germany international to run down his contract and he opted to sign a four-year deal with Juventus after speaking to Morata about life in Italy.
"Khedira asked me a lot about the club before he joined," Morata told Marca. "I'm glad he's here, he's a great signing."
Morata also reflected on his first year at the club and thanked his team-mates for helping him to adjust to his new surroundings.
"It was not just my year here but the year of the team that led to a fourth successive Scudetto. We have formed a great group here and my team-mates took care of me upon my arrival."It's felt like we've been playing together for four or five years."
The Spain international has recently been linked with a move back to Madrid but insists he hasn't spoken to anyone at the club about a possible return."He [Benitez] has not called me," the 22-year-old continued. "I am delighted to be at Juventus.
"I have matured not just as a player but in various aspects of my life as well here. I feel indebted to this club and want to win many more trophies."
Casillas should finish career at Madrid - father
Iker Casillas' father believes his son should stay at Real Madrid until he retires, despite the club's interest in Manchester United's David De Gea.
The 34-year-old has has spent his entire career at the Bernabeu but his future is under threat after another campaign blighted by a series of high-profile mistakes.
As a result, Madrid are pursuing a move for De Gea, which would mean the club captain would likely be relegated to second choice between the posts, but his father has urged him to stay.He told El Pais: "He should not leave. Hopefully he can finish his career at the club that he joined 25 years ago."
Casillas also faces competition from Keylor Navas, who joined Madrid from Levante last summer but only made 12 appearances in all competitions in 2014/15.
Iker Casillas' father believes his son should stay at Real Madrid until he retires, despite the club's interest in Manchester United's David De Gea.
The 34-year-old has has spent his entire career at the Bernabeu but his future is under threat after another campaign blighted by a series of high-profile mistakes.
As a result, Madrid are pursuing a move for De Gea, which would mean the club captain would likely be relegated to second choice between the posts, but his father has urged him to stay.He told El Pais: "He should not leave. Hopefully he can finish his career at the club that he joined 25 years ago."
Casillas also faces competition from Keylor Navas, who joined Madrid from Levante last summer but only made 12 appearances in all competitions in 2014/15.
Monk: Ayew capture is major coup for Swansea
Garry Monk believes the signing of Andre Ayew illustrates the progress made by Swansea City.
Ayew completed his move to the Premier League club on a free transfer from Marseille on Wednesday, the 25-year-old signing a four-year deal, citing a desire to link-up with Bafetimbi Gomis as part of his decision.
Swansea, who achieved a record Premier League placing of eighth last season, beat off competition from a number of Premier League clubs to seal the deal and Monk is delighted at the club's growing appeal.
"I'm extremely pleased we've been able to attract someone of Ayew's quality to this football club," manager Monk told the club's official website.
"It highlights once again just how far this club has grown year on year, not just in Britain, but globally.
"He will add quality, experience and versatility - which I like - to the squad. The fans should be really excited about seeing him play.
"When I spoke to him recently he was very football-motivated and felt Swansea was the right club for him at the moment to develop his game and progress his career.
"We also felt he was the right fit for this club, so both parties are more than happy."
Garry Monk believes the signing of Andre Ayew illustrates the progress made by Swansea City.
Ayew completed his move to the Premier League club on a free transfer from Marseille on Wednesday, the 25-year-old signing a four-year deal, citing a desire to link-up with Bafetimbi Gomis as part of his decision.
Swansea, who achieved a record Premier League placing of eighth last season, beat off competition from a number of Premier League clubs to seal the deal and Monk is delighted at the club's growing appeal.
"I'm extremely pleased we've been able to attract someone of Ayew's quality to this football club," manager Monk told the club's official website.
"It highlights once again just how far this club has grown year on year, not just in Britain, but globally.
"He will add quality, experience and versatility - which I like - to the squad. The fans should be really excited about seeing him play.
"When I spoke to him recently he was very football-motivated and felt Swansea was the right club for him at the moment to develop his game and progress his career.
"We also felt he was the right fit for this club, so both parties are more than happy."
Filipe Luis: I don't know if I'm staying at Chelsea
Chelsea defender Filipe Luis admits he is unsure where his future lies amid reported interest from Real Madrid.
The left-back struggled for game time at Stamford Bridge in 2014-15 following his move from Real’s fierce rivals Atletico last summer, making just 15 Premier League appearances as he failed to dislodge first-choice Cesar Azpilicueta from the starting XI.
Reports have suggested that Real approached the 29-year-old with a view to bolstering their defence, but were met with a firm rebuttal.
Luis, though, says that he is unaware where he will spend the 2015-16 season, and claims much depends on the Blues.
"It’s difficult to talk about my future because I do not really know what will happen,” he told reporters after Brazil’s 1-0 win over Honduras.
“I have a contract with Chelsea and I belong to the club, so it’s up to them."
Chelsea defender Filipe Luis admits he is unsure where his future lies amid reported interest from Real Madrid.
The left-back struggled for game time at Stamford Bridge in 2014-15 following his move from Real’s fierce rivals Atletico last summer, making just 15 Premier League appearances as he failed to dislodge first-choice Cesar Azpilicueta from the starting XI.
Reports have suggested that Real approached the 29-year-old with a view to bolstering their defence, but were met with a firm rebuttal.
Luis, though, says that he is unaware where he will spend the 2015-16 season, and claims much depends on the Blues.
"It’s difficult to talk about my future because I do not really know what will happen,” he told reporters after Brazil’s 1-0 win over Honduras.
“I have a contract with Chelsea and I belong to the club, so it’s up to them."
Xavi: I'm in Qatar to continue winning titles
Xavi insists that he has joined Al-Sadd with the goal of winning further titles and sharing his knowledge and experience with the aim of boosting the profile of Qatari football.
The iconic midfielder brought the curtain down on his illustrious 24-year Barcelona career on Saturday, with the former Spain international playing his part in the 3-1 Champions League final victory over Juventus that saw the Catalans claim a treble.
Xavi still had a year to run on his contract with the Blaugrana but he instead opted to accept a lucrative move to Qatar and was formally unveiled as an Al-Sadd player on Thursday.
The World Cup winner promptly dismissed the notion that his switch was motivated by money, insisting that he remains as determined as ever to lift trophies.
"I am very proud to be here," he told reporters on Thursday. "I have the excitement of a kid and I want to keep on winning titles."I know many players who have played here. Many legends have been telling me wonders about it and I know that it's a competitive league.
"I want to win the title here and the Asian Champions League is also an exciting goal for me."I also want to share my knowledge of everything I learned at Barcelona.
"I want to bring all my Barca experience: the values, sacrifice, effort and humility.
"But this is a country where I can learn about football but also about culture, which will be enriching for me and my family."
Xavi refused to be drawn on whether he will retire upon the expiration of his Al-Sadd contract in 2017 but did admit that he is looking forward to promoting only Qatar's hosting of the 2022 World Cup."My contract with Al-Sadd is for two years and then I will be ambassador until 2022," he added.
"First, I want to keep playing football. Everyone is excited about a World Cup in an Arab country. I am very excited as an ambassador."After that, I'll see what I'll do, but for now I'm just thinking about enjoying this wonderful stage."
"But I would like the Al Sadd to play in Camp Nou, not only for me but for the team, as it would be a fantastic experience."
Xavi insists that he has joined Al-Sadd with the goal of winning further titles and sharing his knowledge and experience with the aim of boosting the profile of Qatari football.
The iconic midfielder brought the curtain down on his illustrious 24-year Barcelona career on Saturday, with the former Spain international playing his part in the 3-1 Champions League final victory over Juventus that saw the Catalans claim a treble.
Xavi still had a year to run on his contract with the Blaugrana but he instead opted to accept a lucrative move to Qatar and was formally unveiled as an Al-Sadd player on Thursday.
The World Cup winner promptly dismissed the notion that his switch was motivated by money, insisting that he remains as determined as ever to lift trophies.
"I am very proud to be here," he told reporters on Thursday. "I have the excitement of a kid and I want to keep on winning titles."I know many players who have played here. Many legends have been telling me wonders about it and I know that it's a competitive league.
"I want to win the title here and the Asian Champions League is also an exciting goal for me."I also want to share my knowledge of everything I learned at Barcelona.
"I want to bring all my Barca experience: the values, sacrifice, effort and humility.
"But this is a country where I can learn about football but also about culture, which will be enriching for me and my family."
Xavi refused to be drawn on whether he will retire upon the expiration of his Al-Sadd contract in 2017 but did admit that he is looking forward to promoting only Qatar's hosting of the 2022 World Cup."My contract with Al-Sadd is for two years and then I will be ambassador until 2022," he added.
"First, I want to keep playing football. Everyone is excited about a World Cup in an Arab country. I am very excited as an ambassador."After that, I'll see what I'll do, but for now I'm just thinking about enjoying this wonderful stage."
"But I would like the Al Sadd to play in Camp Nou, not only for me but for the team, as it would be a fantastic experience."
Hart: England more solid since World Cup
Joe Hart believes England have shown greater defensive solidity since their World Cup exit in Brazil last summer.
The Three Lions bowed out at the group stage after 2-1 defeats to both Italy and Uruguay in their opening two matches, while an insipid 0-0 draw with Costa Rica in a dead rubber followed.
However, England have since won seven and drawn two of their nine games following the tournament, conceding just three goals in the process.
Roy Hodgson's side head into Sunday's Euro 2016 qualifier with Slovenia as leaders of Group E, and Hart has hailed the side's unity, while challenging them to win all 10 of their qualifying fixtures, having already picked up five victories.
"We've defended well as a team and that was one thing we wanted to nail down after four goals in the first two games ultimately put us out [of the World Cup]," Hart told reporters.
"It's something we addressed and work hard on.
"We've got so much attacking flair. We look to hold it down at the back and the boys do what they do up front.
"The qualifying campaign obviously isn't the same level as the group stages of a World Cup. We get opposition put in front of us and we're expected to win most of the games. We've done the minimum but we've made strides.
"We're building a team and building an ethos. We know how we want to play and hopefully we can get as many qualifying points as possible to move to France as quickly as possible.
He added: "Qualifying is our first objective. Let's get that out of the way and then we'll be ready to go.
"We'd love to win 10 out of 10. It'd be good for the tournament to put us in a good place. Slovenia is definitely a tough game for us because they're one of the teams that can catch us in the group. All our intentions are on that at the moment."
Joe Hart believes England have shown greater defensive solidity since their World Cup exit in Brazil last summer.
The Three Lions bowed out at the group stage after 2-1 defeats to both Italy and Uruguay in their opening two matches, while an insipid 0-0 draw with Costa Rica in a dead rubber followed.
However, England have since won seven and drawn two of their nine games following the tournament, conceding just three goals in the process.
Roy Hodgson's side head into Sunday's Euro 2016 qualifier with Slovenia as leaders of Group E, and Hart has hailed the side's unity, while challenging them to win all 10 of their qualifying fixtures, having already picked up five victories.
"We've defended well as a team and that was one thing we wanted to nail down after four goals in the first two games ultimately put us out [of the World Cup]," Hart told reporters.
"It's something we addressed and work hard on.
"We've got so much attacking flair. We look to hold it down at the back and the boys do what they do up front.
"The qualifying campaign obviously isn't the same level as the group stages of a World Cup. We get opposition put in front of us and we're expected to win most of the games. We've done the minimum but we've made strides.
"We're building a team and building an ethos. We know how we want to play and hopefully we can get as many qualifying points as possible to move to France as quickly as possible.
He added: "Qualifying is our first objective. Let's get that out of the way and then we'll be ready to go.
"We'd love to win 10 out of 10. It'd be good for the tournament to put us in a good place. Slovenia is definitely a tough game for us because they're one of the teams that can catch us in the group. All our intentions are on that at the moment."
Abate signs new AC Milan deal
AC Milan have confirmed that defender Ignazio Abate has committed his future to the club until 2019.
The Italy international's previous deal had been set to expire at the end of June but he put pen to paper on a new four-year contract on Thursday."It's a signature that fills me with pride," Abate wrote on Twitter. "Ten years at Milan is an honour. Day after day, Rossonero forever. Thank you."
Abate came through the Rossoneri's youth team ranks before first breaking into the senior squad in 2003.The right-back had loan spells at Napoli, Piacenza, Modena, Empoli and Torino before establishing himself in the Milan starting line-up in 2009.
The 28-year-old made 23 appearances last season as the Rossoneri finished a disappointing 10th in the Serie A standings.
AC Milan have confirmed that defender Ignazio Abate has committed his future to the club until 2019.
The Italy international's previous deal had been set to expire at the end of June but he put pen to paper on a new four-year contract on Thursday."It's a signature that fills me with pride," Abate wrote on Twitter. "Ten years at Milan is an honour. Day after day, Rossonero forever. Thank you."
Abate came through the Rossoneri's youth team ranks before first breaking into the senior squad in 2003.The right-back had loan spells at Napoli, Piacenza, Modena, Empoli and Torino before establishing himself in the Milan starting line-up in 2009.
The 28-year-old made 23 appearances last season as the Rossoneri finished a disappointing 10th in the Serie A standings.
Messi: No rivalry with Ronaldo
Barcelona ace Lionel Messi has insisted that "the is no rivalry" between him and Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.The pair are widely regarded as the top two players on the planet, having won the last seven Ballons d'Or between them.
Ronaldo was claimed the last two awards and it has been argued that the Portugal international's recent success has inspired Messi to reach even greater heights this season, with the Argentine odds-on to reclaim the title as the world's No.1 footballer after inspiring Barca to a historic treble.However, Messi insists that he is not affected in any way by what Ronaldo does on or off the field.
"There is no rivalry – it is just something that the media have invented," the 27-year-old attacker told Short List."It’s not Messi versus Ronaldo; it never has been."
Messi and Barcelona's resurgence this season is made all the more remarkable for the fact that the Rosario native admitted publicly last November that he could leave Camp Nou.
However, he says that he now wants to remain in Catalunya for as long as the club want him, admitting that he has never regretted his decision to join the Blaugrana over other interested clubs, including Premier League outfit Arsenal.“It’s difficult to say how it might have turned out if I’d have gone to Arsenal," he stated.
"My education would have been different to the one I had at Barcelona but it’s obvious that the Premier League is one of the most competitive leagues in Europe.
"But Barcelona have given me everything; they gave me an opportunity when nobody else would."I have never wanted to play anywhere else and I’ll stay there as long as they want me."
Messi scored 58 times in just 57 games during Barca's treble triumph, with the pick of the bunch arguably his already iconic strike against Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-finals, when he left Jerome Boateng on his backside.
However, he has played down the nature of his individual brilliance, arguing that he would be nothing without his supporting cast.
"My Barca team-mates are always close and they congratulate me when I score but I couldn’t put in performances like that if I didn’t have exceptional players alongside me," he added.
“You always want to score but scoring isn’t everything."Just look at Luis Suarez, who wasn’t scoring a lot at the start of the campaign but he was working hard."Now we are all getting among the goals and that is good for the team, that’s what helps us get results."
Barcelona ace Lionel Messi has insisted that "the is no rivalry" between him and Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.The pair are widely regarded as the top two players on the planet, having won the last seven Ballons d'Or between them.
Ronaldo was claimed the last two awards and it has been argued that the Portugal international's recent success has inspired Messi to reach even greater heights this season, with the Argentine odds-on to reclaim the title as the world's No.1 footballer after inspiring Barca to a historic treble.However, Messi insists that he is not affected in any way by what Ronaldo does on or off the field.
"There is no rivalry – it is just something that the media have invented," the 27-year-old attacker told Short List."It’s not Messi versus Ronaldo; it never has been."
Messi and Barcelona's resurgence this season is made all the more remarkable for the fact that the Rosario native admitted publicly last November that he could leave Camp Nou.
However, he says that he now wants to remain in Catalunya for as long as the club want him, admitting that he has never regretted his decision to join the Blaugrana over other interested clubs, including Premier League outfit Arsenal.“It’s difficult to say how it might have turned out if I’d have gone to Arsenal," he stated.
"My education would have been different to the one I had at Barcelona but it’s obvious that the Premier League is one of the most competitive leagues in Europe.
"But Barcelona have given me everything; they gave me an opportunity when nobody else would."I have never wanted to play anywhere else and I’ll stay there as long as they want me."
Messi scored 58 times in just 57 games during Barca's treble triumph, with the pick of the bunch arguably his already iconic strike against Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-finals, when he left Jerome Boateng on his backside.
However, he has played down the nature of his individual brilliance, arguing that he would be nothing without his supporting cast.
"My Barca team-mates are always close and they congratulate me when I score but I couldn’t put in performances like that if I didn’t have exceptional players alongside me," he added.
“You always want to score but scoring isn’t everything."Just look at Luis Suarez, who wasn’t scoring a lot at the start of the campaign but he was working hard."Now we are all getting among the goals and that is good for the team, that’s what helps us get results."
Messi: Argentina have gone trophyless for too long
Lionel Messi is hoping to end Argentina's 22-year wait for a senior title at Copa America 2015.
The Albiceleste last won the continental competition in 1993 and have since endured a barren run of over two decades without silverware on the international stage.It has been too long, according to the Barcelona superstar who wants to finally end his country's wait for a trophy in Chile this summer.
"We’ve had some great teams since we last won a trophy, but have gone too long without winning," Messi told Short List.
"We came close in Brazil, but the World Cup is behind us now. The objective is to win Copa America."However, the 27-year-old predicts that there will be plenty of competition for continental glory.
"Ourselves and Brazil are very strong, but Colombia showed at the World Cup how strong they are, Uruguay have big players, and Chile will be strong at home," he added."Many teams have a chance to win."
Messi came close to ending Argentina's wait for a trophy at the World Cup in Brazil last July, only losing to an extra-time goal from Mario Gotze in the final.
But the Rosario-born forward still harbours hopes of being crowned world champion before the end of his career.
"It is the ultimate goal in football, and it is still a dream I have," Messi said."So many of my team-mates at Barcelona have won it, and it is a dream to one day know what that feeling is like."
Argentina's first match at the Copa will see them take on 2011 runners-up Paraguay in La Serena.
Lionel Messi is hoping to end Argentina's 22-year wait for a senior title at Copa America 2015.
The Albiceleste last won the continental competition in 1993 and have since endured a barren run of over two decades without silverware on the international stage.It has been too long, according to the Barcelona superstar who wants to finally end his country's wait for a trophy in Chile this summer.
"We’ve had some great teams since we last won a trophy, but have gone too long without winning," Messi told Short List.
"We came close in Brazil, but the World Cup is behind us now. The objective is to win Copa America."However, the 27-year-old predicts that there will be plenty of competition for continental glory.
"Ourselves and Brazil are very strong, but Colombia showed at the World Cup how strong they are, Uruguay have big players, and Chile will be strong at home," he added."Many teams have a chance to win."
Messi came close to ending Argentina's wait for a trophy at the World Cup in Brazil last July, only losing to an extra-time goal from Mario Gotze in the final.
But the Rosario-born forward still harbours hopes of being crowned world champion before the end of his career.
"It is the ultimate goal in football, and it is still a dream I have," Messi said."So many of my team-mates at Barcelona have won it, and it is a dream to one day know what that feeling is like."
Argentina's first match at the Copa will see them take on 2011 runners-up Paraguay in La Serena.
Hazard: I want to score more goals for Chelsea
Chelsea midfielder and PFA Player of the Year Eden Hazard has revealed his desire to improve even further for the Blues next season, stating his aim to "score more goals" for the club.
The Belgium international found the net 19 times as the Blues won the Premier League and Capital One Cup, though he believes he can be even more prolific in front of goal moving forward.
And the former Lille man thinks 25 goals in the 2015-16 campaign is a realistic target as Jose Mourinho's side look to replicate their success next season.
"I want to score more goals," he told the club's official website.
"I scored 19 this season, the season before I scored 16, so 19 is good, especially as I’m not a pure striker, I’m a winger."
"But the fans always want me to score. I work hard on that in training but it’s not easy. It would be nice if I could maybe get 25 goals next season."
Despite a hugely impressive campaign in which Mourinho's men clinched two titles, Hazard was insistent that the Blues can do even better next season, particularly in the Champions League.
"We need to keep the two trophies we won this season and hopefully add another cup, it would be good to win everything," he said.
"The only bad thing about this season was the PSG game; when you are playing with 11 men against ten you shouldn't lose. Even though we didn't lose the game, 2-2 wasn't good enough, so it would be good to go far in the Champions League.
"It will be a big challenge to retain the Premier League next season. Every team wants to beat the champions. They will come to Stamford Bridge and try to do whatever they can to beat us, so we have to be ready."
Hazard is currently on international duty with Belgium, as the Red Devils prepare to face Wales in Cardiff on Friday in a crucial Euro 2016 qualifier.
Chelsea midfielder and PFA Player of the Year Eden Hazard has revealed his desire to improve even further for the Blues next season, stating his aim to "score more goals" for the club.
The Belgium international found the net 19 times as the Blues won the Premier League and Capital One Cup, though he believes he can be even more prolific in front of goal moving forward.
And the former Lille man thinks 25 goals in the 2015-16 campaign is a realistic target as Jose Mourinho's side look to replicate their success next season.
"I want to score more goals," he told the club's official website.
"I scored 19 this season, the season before I scored 16, so 19 is good, especially as I’m not a pure striker, I’m a winger."
"But the fans always want me to score. I work hard on that in training but it’s not easy. It would be nice if I could maybe get 25 goals next season."
Despite a hugely impressive campaign in which Mourinho's men clinched two titles, Hazard was insistent that the Blues can do even better next season, particularly in the Champions League.
"We need to keep the two trophies we won this season and hopefully add another cup, it would be good to win everything," he said.
"The only bad thing about this season was the PSG game; when you are playing with 11 men against ten you shouldn't lose. Even though we didn't lose the game, 2-2 wasn't good enough, so it would be good to go far in the Champions League.
"It will be a big challenge to retain the Premier League next season. Every team wants to beat the champions. They will come to Stamford Bridge and try to do whatever they can to beat us, so we have to be ready."
Hazard is currently on international duty with Belgium, as the Red Devils prepare to face Wales in Cardiff on Friday in a crucial Euro 2016 qualifier.
Spain 2-1 Costa Rica: Alcacer and Fabregas clinch comeback win
Goals from Paco Alcacer and Cesc Fabregas saw Spain come from a goal down to beat Costa Rica 2-1 in a friendly on Thursday.
The European champions made a slow start in Leon as Johan Venegas finished off a swift counterattack to put Costa Rica ahead inside five minutes.
Paulo Wanchope's side were unable to consolidate the lead, though, as Spain soon turned on the style and Alcacer scored his fourth international goal in just six Spain appearances.
Chelsea midfielder Fabregas then put the finishing touch on a well-worked move to deservedly put Spain in front on the half-hour mark and that proved to be the winner.
The hosts, who had lost their past three friendly matches, had chances to increase their lead after the break, with Sergio Ramos twice denied brilliantly by Real Madrid team-mate Keylor Navas in the Costa Rica goal.
Spain will now switch their attention to the more important matter of Sunday's Euro 2016 qualifying fixture in Belarus, with Vicente del Bosque's side three points adrift of Group C leaders Slovakia. Costa Rica have one last warm-up match against Mexico before next month's Concacaf Gold Cup.
Costa Rica stole ahead against the run of play in just the sixth minute. Joel Campbell led a swift counter down the left before squaring to Venegas, who fired low first time past David de Gea.
The lead last just two minutes, though, as Spain hit back from the next attack.
Fabregas' through ball picked out the clever run of Alcacer and the Valencia forward kept his cool when one-on-one with Navas to place his shot into the bottom right-hand corner.
With their tails up, Spain pressed for a second and Mikel San Jose should have done better when he fired a half-volley over the crossbar from 10 yards.
The pressure told on the half-hour mark as Spain moved ahead for the first time.
Barcelona new boy Aleix Vidal's cross from the right picked out Nolito and the winger volleyed a pass into the path of Fabregas, who side-footed home from close-range.
Vidal appeared to pick up a knock before the break and was replaced by former Sevilla team-mate Vitolo.
Spain remained in the ascendancy in the second half and only a superb point-blank save from Navas denied Ramos from heading home a third.
Ramos was left flabbergasted when Navas repeated the trick with a fine reflex stop from his close-range half-volley just before the hour. The centre-back was substituted shortly after and shared a warm embrace with an adversary whose goal he normally guards - though his replacement, Gerard Pique, was booed by large sections of the crowd.
Santi Cazorla was next to be denied by Navas, the Arsenal man having run onto a sublime flick from David Silva, before Koke had an audacious close-range rabona effort charged down.
Spain's failure to find a third goal almost proved costly when Bryan Ruiz flashed a half-volley over the crossbar in the closing stages, but Del Bosque and his side can travel to Borisov in high spirits.
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