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Courtois: Cech exit would be understandable
Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has said that it would be understandable if fellow Blues shot-stopper Petr Cech decided to leave the club this summer.
Despite enjoying a near-uninterrupted spell as the Blues' No.1 for a number of years, Cech was usurped by his younger counterpart last season and totalled just six Premier League starts for the champions as Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho opted for Courtois as his preferred man between the sticks.
Cech has been linked moves to Arsenal and Manchester United and, despite the healthy relationship he has with the veteran, Courtois admits he would understand it if he were to leave.
"Petr is a fantastic guy and I worked really well with him," Courtois told reporters.
"When you look at Petr's quality there is no doubt that he is one of the best in the world and I think we pushed each other to a higher level.
"I think we have seen in the games for Chelsea that if I was not playing he was playing and he saved the team as well. So I think it was a very good year for Chelsea.
"If he stays I am happy. If he leaves I understand as well."
Courtois is currently on international duty with Chelsea teammate Eden Hazard as Belgium prepare to face Wales on Friday in a key Euro 2016 qualifier.
Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has said that it would be understandable if fellow Blues shot-stopper Petr Cech decided to leave the club this summer.
Despite enjoying a near-uninterrupted spell as the Blues' No.1 for a number of years, Cech was usurped by his younger counterpart last season and totalled just six Premier League starts for the champions as Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho opted for Courtois as his preferred man between the sticks.
Cech has been linked moves to Arsenal and Manchester United and, despite the healthy relationship he has with the veteran, Courtois admits he would understand it if he were to leave.
"Petr is a fantastic guy and I worked really well with him," Courtois told reporters.
"When you look at Petr's quality there is no doubt that he is one of the best in the world and I think we pushed each other to a higher level.
"I think we have seen in the games for Chelsea that if I was not playing he was playing and he saved the team as well. So I think it was a very good year for Chelsea.
"If he stays I am happy. If he leaves I understand as well."
Courtois is currently on international duty with Chelsea teammate Eden Hazard as Belgium prepare to face Wales on Friday in a key Euro 2016 qualifier.
Hart: English players top priority for City this summer
Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart expects the Citizens to target English players during the summer transfer window as manager Manuel Pellegrini looks to rebuild his side in preparation for an assault on the Premier League title next season.
City ended last campaign eight points behind champions Chelsea and have seen English players James Milner, Frank Lampard and Scott Sinclair all leave the club in recent weeks, as well as "homegrown" defender Dedryck Boyata.
With the Eastlands club reportedly seeing a €34 million bid for unsettled Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling rejected by the Reds late on Thursday, Hart nevertheless remains convinced that signing English players will be a top priority for the City hierarchy.
"It is a long summer ahead," said Hart. "With losing Frank and James – and I'm not in the discussions of transfers – I imagine, given homegrown players and stuff like that, it will be top of their list to bring in English players or to promote some of the lads [from the academy].
"I am sure we will have a good balanced squad come the start of the season.
"I am very confident in City as a club going places, which is why I committed my future to them. What they are doing is fantastic. He is a great chairman and they have done amazing things since coming.
"On a personal note, I am very sad to see James go as he is a personal friend. I have enjoyed every moment with him but football is football. We have been in the game a long time and it is business, his decision and the club's decision. I wish him all the best as he is a fantastic player but that is not the end of me and him. We have our personal relationship off the pitch."
Hart committed himself to City by signing a new five-and-a-half-year contract at the Etihad Stadium last December.
Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart expects the Citizens to target English players during the summer transfer window as manager Manuel Pellegrini looks to rebuild his side in preparation for an assault on the Premier League title next season.
City ended last campaign eight points behind champions Chelsea and have seen English players James Milner, Frank Lampard and Scott Sinclair all leave the club in recent weeks, as well as "homegrown" defender Dedryck Boyata.
With the Eastlands club reportedly seeing a €34 million bid for unsettled Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling rejected by the Reds late on Thursday, Hart nevertheless remains convinced that signing English players will be a top priority for the City hierarchy.
"It is a long summer ahead," said Hart. "With losing Frank and James – and I'm not in the discussions of transfers – I imagine, given homegrown players and stuff like that, it will be top of their list to bring in English players or to promote some of the lads [from the academy].
"I am sure we will have a good balanced squad come the start of the season.
"I am very confident in City as a club going places, which is why I committed my future to them. What they are doing is fantastic. He is a great chairman and they have done amazing things since coming.
"On a personal note, I am very sad to see James go as he is a personal friend. I have enjoyed every moment with him but football is football. We have been in the game a long time and it is business, his decision and the club's decision. I wish him all the best as he is a fantastic player but that is not the end of me and him. We have our personal relationship off the pitch."
Hart committed himself to City by signing a new five-and-a-half-year contract at the Etihad Stadium last December.
Del Bosque warns Spain fans: If you boo Pique, you boo the team
Vicente del Bosque has hit out at Spain supporters who booed and whistled Gerard Pique during the 2-1 win over Costa Rica on Thursday.
The Barcelona man has been targeted before by some fans due to his support for Catalan independence, while his jibe at Real Madrid and Cristiano Ronaldo recently has inflamed tensions in some quarters.
Pique was loudly jeered when he replaced Sergio Ramos in the second half, with the whistles continuing whenever he touched the ball.
Though the 28-year-old says he was not fazed by the reaction from some fans, his coach has called on supporters and media alike to show more respect to a long-time servant of the national team.
"What happened doesn't seem right to me. He's made 68 appearances to this day, he's been with Spain since he was a child," Del Bosque told a press conference.
"To whistle a player is to whistle the national team. I feel very bad that they whistled.
"The most important thing is that we're united. Some media incite violence and hatred between regions."He was fine [before the game]. He wanted to play, he was looking forward to it."Cesc Fabregas and Paco Alcacer scored the goals as Spain came from behind to win the friendly in Leon.
While Del Bosque was pleased with the result, he was frustrated to see new Barcelona signing Aleix Vidal forced off with an ankle problem which means he could miss the Euro 2016 qualifier with Belarus."We scored the goals in the first half when we had fewer chances, and in the second half we had more. We played a great game against a team with a very good attitude," he said.
"Vidal has a problem with his ankle, I don't know whether he will come to Belarus or not. It depends on the doctors."
Delph: I would not prevent Benteke from leaving Aston Villa
Aston Villa captain Fabian Delph has said he would not prevent star striker Christian Benteke from leaving the club if the Belgian wishes to "better himself" elsewhere.
Villa chief executive Tom Fox revealed this week the Midlands club plan to persuade the 24-year-old to stay with a lucrative contract extension.
However, with a host of clubs - including Liverpool and Chelsea - interested in signing the centre forward, Delph said it would be futile to block Benteke's exit if he has his heart set on it.
"I wouldn't try to convince anybody [to stay]," Delph said.
"Everyone is entitled to make their own decisions. If they have a chance to move on and better themselves, I can't tell them not to do that.
"If they want to commit themselves to the club and stay there, then happy days there as well. But it is down to that individual."
Delph signed a four-and-a-half-year contract extension at Villa Park in January and admitted that Benteke would be a big loss for the club if he does decide to leave.
"It would have a big effect [if Benteke left].
"He is a great player, world-class in my opinion, a good lad to have around as well. It would be a big loss.
"He scores a lot of goals."
Meanwhile, Fox refused to discuss the possibility of Benteke leaving the club.
"If Christian wanted to leave, would we stand in his way? It's very difficult to make a blanket statement about a player wanting to leave," he said.
"There has been a lot of speculation and I'm not going to contribute to it or play any of our transfer strategy out in the press.
"But we will offer Christian Benteke a new deal this summer, of course we will."
Benteke scored 15 goals in all competitions for Villa last season, with 12 of them coming following Tim Sherwood's appointment as manager in February.
Aston Villa captain Fabian Delph has said he would not prevent star striker Christian Benteke from leaving the club if the Belgian wishes to "better himself" elsewhere.
Villa chief executive Tom Fox revealed this week the Midlands club plan to persuade the 24-year-old to stay with a lucrative contract extension.
However, with a host of clubs - including Liverpool and Chelsea - interested in signing the centre forward, Delph said it would be futile to block Benteke's exit if he has his heart set on it.
"I wouldn't try to convince anybody [to stay]," Delph said.
"Everyone is entitled to make their own decisions. If they have a chance to move on and better themselves, I can't tell them not to do that.
"If they want to commit themselves to the club and stay there, then happy days there as well. But it is down to that individual."
Delph signed a four-and-a-half-year contract extension at Villa Park in January and admitted that Benteke would be a big loss for the club if he does decide to leave.
"It would have a big effect [if Benteke left].
"He is a great player, world-class in my opinion, a good lad to have around as well. It would be a big loss.
"He scores a lot of goals."
Meanwhile, Fox refused to discuss the possibility of Benteke leaving the club.
"If Christian wanted to leave, would we stand in his way? It's very difficult to make a blanket statement about a player wanting to leave," he said.
"There has been a lot of speculation and I'm not going to contribute to it or play any of our transfer strategy out in the press.
"But we will offer Christian Benteke a new deal this summer, of course we will."
Benteke scored 15 goals in all competitions for Villa last season, with 12 of them coming following Tim Sherwood's appointment as manager in February.
Mangala: Harsh criticism 'does not bother me'
Manchester City defender Eliaquim Mangala has promised to bounce back next season after being named one of the worst Premier League debutants by a national newspaper, insisting that the criticism "does not bother" him.
The 24-year-old joined the Etihad outfit last summer in a move which could ultimately cost the club in excess of €52 million, yet the France international found his first season in English football to be a trying experience and he was guilty of some high-profile errors.
While his pricetag makes Mangala the most expensive defender in English football history, the centre-back insists that it does not worry him.
"People focus on the price," he told L'Equipe.
"I do not think it's a drag, but certainly in terms of the level of your performance, you are looked at differently. I live very well with that.
"This has been a good season of adaptation, because it was a bit difficult physically in the first three months. And whether you play against first or last in the Premier League, it's the same intensity.
"I look at the whole. I played 30 matches, and I lost only four, so I have a fairly positive assessment."
Talking about his inclusion in the worst rookie XI of the season, Mangala remained stoical.
"We must be able to step back. Sure, it touches your pride because nobody likes that kind of remark. But it does not bother me. This is the kind of article that motivates, I'm not at all worried over this."
Manchester City defender Eliaquim Mangala has promised to bounce back next season after being named one of the worst Premier League debutants by a national newspaper, insisting that the criticism "does not bother" him.
The 24-year-old joined the Etihad outfit last summer in a move which could ultimately cost the club in excess of €52 million, yet the France international found his first season in English football to be a trying experience and he was guilty of some high-profile errors.
While his pricetag makes Mangala the most expensive defender in English football history, the centre-back insists that it does not worry him.
"People focus on the price," he told L'Equipe.
"I do not think it's a drag, but certainly in terms of the level of your performance, you are looked at differently. I live very well with that.
"This has been a good season of adaptation, because it was a bit difficult physically in the first three months. And whether you play against first or last in the Premier League, it's the same intensity.
"I look at the whole. I played 30 matches, and I lost only four, so I have a fairly positive assessment."
Talking about his inclusion in the worst rookie XI of the season, Mangala remained stoical.
"We must be able to step back. Sure, it touches your pride because nobody likes that kind of remark. But it does not bother me. This is the kind of article that motivates, I'm not at all worried over this."
Chile 2-0 Ecuador: Vidal & Vargas give hosts opening-day victory
Chile's bid to win a maiden Copa America title got off to the perfect start after the host nation powered past Group A rivals Ecuador 2-0 in Santiago.
Arturo Vidal broke the deadlock via a 67th-minute penalty and substitute Eduardo Vargas sealed the points with six minutes remaining in the Copa opener at the Estadio Nacional on Thursday.
Vidal stepped up and converted his own spot-kick after he was fouled by Ecuador forward Miller Bolanos, before Vargas came off the bench - replacing Jean Beausejour at half-time - and put the result beyond doubt late on in the Chilean capital.
Jorge Sampaoli made three changes to the team that beat El Salvador 1-0 in their final Copa America warm-up, with captain Claudio Bravo, Vidal and Eugenio Mena drafted into the line-up at the expense of Johnny Herrera, Felipe Gutierrez and Vargas.
Ecuador were unchanged, with Gustavo Quinteros opting to stick with the same XI that routed Panama 4-0 in a friendly last week.Chile were by far the more superior team in the first half, but had nothing to show for their efforts.
The host nation dominated from the outset and Alexis Sanchez - a constant threat - came close to breaking the deadlock early on but his attempted chip failed to deceive onrushing goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez.
Bravo was forced into a save by Fidel Martinez not long after, when Jorge Valdivia played Chile into trouble with a short free-kick just outside the penalty area.
Chile continued to dictate proceedings, howver, with Vidal the architect in the middle of the pitch, but try as they might there was no goal before the break, despite opportunities falling to Sanchez and Mauricio Isla.
It was a similar story in the second half, Sanchez leading the charge up front, though it yielded no reward for Chile.In a rare foray in the attacking third, Ecuador came close to opening the scoring after 53 minutes but Enner Valencia was unable to direct his shot on target.Ecuador's defence was finally breached just after the hour mark, albeit from the penalty spot.
Bolanos brought down Vidal with an arm across his chest and the Juventus midfielder made no mistake, firing the ball into the top corner of the net.Ecuador were unlucky not to snatch a point after Valencia's header cannoned off the crossbar with nine minutes remaining.
And Chile went up the other end and sealed the points two minutes later, when Vargas curled the ball underneath Dominguez, having been played in by Sanchez.
Chile's bid to win a maiden Copa America title got off to the perfect start after the host nation powered past Group A rivals Ecuador 2-0 in Santiago.
Arturo Vidal broke the deadlock via a 67th-minute penalty and substitute Eduardo Vargas sealed the points with six minutes remaining in the Copa opener at the Estadio Nacional on Thursday.
Vidal stepped up and converted his own spot-kick after he was fouled by Ecuador forward Miller Bolanos, before Vargas came off the bench - replacing Jean Beausejour at half-time - and put the result beyond doubt late on in the Chilean capital.
Jorge Sampaoli made three changes to the team that beat El Salvador 1-0 in their final Copa America warm-up, with captain Claudio Bravo, Vidal and Eugenio Mena drafted into the line-up at the expense of Johnny Herrera, Felipe Gutierrez and Vargas.
Ecuador were unchanged, with Gustavo Quinteros opting to stick with the same XI that routed Panama 4-0 in a friendly last week.Chile were by far the more superior team in the first half, but had nothing to show for their efforts.
The host nation dominated from the outset and Alexis Sanchez - a constant threat - came close to breaking the deadlock early on but his attempted chip failed to deceive onrushing goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez.
Bravo was forced into a save by Fidel Martinez not long after, when Jorge Valdivia played Chile into trouble with a short free-kick just outside the penalty area.
Chile continued to dictate proceedings, howver, with Vidal the architect in the middle of the pitch, but try as they might there was no goal before the break, despite opportunities falling to Sanchez and Mauricio Isla.
It was a similar story in the second half, Sanchez leading the charge up front, though it yielded no reward for Chile.In a rare foray in the attacking third, Ecuador came close to opening the scoring after 53 minutes but Enner Valencia was unable to direct his shot on target.Ecuador's defence was finally breached just after the hour mark, albeit from the penalty spot.
Bolanos brought down Vidal with an arm across his chest and the Juventus midfielder made no mistake, firing the ball into the top corner of the net.Ecuador were unlucky not to snatch a point after Valencia's header cannoned off the crossbar with nine minutes remaining.
And Chile went up the other end and sealed the points two minutes later, when Vargas curled the ball underneath Dominguez, having been played in by Sanchez.
Vidal: The most important thing is that Chile won
Arturo Vidal scored the opening goal for Chile in their 2-0 Copa América victory against Ecuador at the Estadio Nacional in Santiago and admitted the most important thing was that his side claimed all three points with a 2-0 win.
Jorge Sampaoli's side were occasionally nervous against the Ecuadorians and did not take command until Vidal won a penalty and converted it in the second half.
Vidal explained that the sometimes tepid performance was due to nerves in the camp with so much pressure on the team to win on home soil and vowed that they will improve before the second Group A match against Mexico on June 15.
"The first game is always difficult," he said. "The nervousness, the desire to win. But we were able to stay calm and claim the victory. The result is the most important thing and we're happy."
Ecuador caused Chile plenty of problems during the tie and were unlucky not to draw level on the night when an Enner Valencia header crashed against the crossbar. However, a late breakaway led by Alexis Sánchez allowed substitute Eduardo Vargas to seal the points. "We have to improve many things," Vidal admitted. "The intensity, the style of play. This is the first match and it is difficult to play well but it's important that we won."
Vidal's participation in the game was put in doubt at the 11th hour when he tweaked a muscle in the warm-up. However, he recovered to take his place in the starting line-up and impressed as la Roja ground out a result.
"It was giving me a little pain," he said. "I had massage and I could play."
Chile face Mexico on Monday, while Ecuador will attempt to kick-start their campaign against Bolivia.
Arturo Vidal scored the opening goal for Chile in their 2-0 Copa América victory against Ecuador at the Estadio Nacional in Santiago and admitted the most important thing was that his side claimed all three points with a 2-0 win.
Jorge Sampaoli's side were occasionally nervous against the Ecuadorians and did not take command until Vidal won a penalty and converted it in the second half.
Vidal explained that the sometimes tepid performance was due to nerves in the camp with so much pressure on the team to win on home soil and vowed that they will improve before the second Group A match against Mexico on June 15.
"The first game is always difficult," he said. "The nervousness, the desire to win. But we were able to stay calm and claim the victory. The result is the most important thing and we're happy."
Ecuador caused Chile plenty of problems during the tie and were unlucky not to draw level on the night when an Enner Valencia header crashed against the crossbar. However, a late breakaway led by Alexis Sánchez allowed substitute Eduardo Vargas to seal the points. "We have to improve many things," Vidal admitted. "The intensity, the style of play. This is the first match and it is difficult to play well but it's important that we won."
Vidal's participation in the game was put in doubt at the 11th hour when he tweaked a muscle in the warm-up. However, he recovered to take his place in the starting line-up and impressed as la Roja ground out a result.
"It was giving me a little pain," he said. "I had massage and I could play."
Chile face Mexico on Monday, while Ecuador will attempt to kick-start their campaign against Bolivia.
Martinez to Milan looking likely - agent
Jackson Martinez's agent is "optimistic" that the striker will join AC Milan, revealing the Italians were close to reaching an agreement with Porto.
The Rossoneri are expected to embark on a summer of major rebuilding after finishing 10th in Serie A last season, with a large budget available to reinforce the team following Thai businessman Bee Taechaubol's investment in the club.
Links to Martinez have escalated quickly amidst other rumours that the San Siro outfit are also considering bringing Zlatan Ibrahimovic back, and now the Colombia striker's representative has praised Milan, calling them a "huge club" ahead of a potential move.
"I am optimistic on Jackson’s move to Milan, but we’re not quite there yet,” Luiz Henrique Pompeo told EuroStadio.it . "There is a good possibility we’ll conclude the transfer, but we are not yet at the all-clear moment."What I can say with certainty is that Martinez is a player worthy of a top club like Milan who wrote history. The Rossoneri are not just a big club, but a huge one.
"Will they pay the €35 million release clause? You’d have to ask Milan that, it is not something that regards us. As for the wages, I cannot discuss figures at the moment. There’s no deal with the player yet."
Porto are set to record a healthy profit from the sale of the Colombian hitman, whom they signed in 2012 for €9m as a replacement for the departed Radamel Falcao and Hulk.
The 28-year-old forward has gone on to prove a hit at Estadio do Dragao, netting 92 times in only 133 games for the Portuguese giants.
Jackson Martinez's agent is "optimistic" that the striker will join AC Milan, revealing the Italians were close to reaching an agreement with Porto.
The Rossoneri are expected to embark on a summer of major rebuilding after finishing 10th in Serie A last season, with a large budget available to reinforce the team following Thai businessman Bee Taechaubol's investment in the club.
Links to Martinez have escalated quickly amidst other rumours that the San Siro outfit are also considering bringing Zlatan Ibrahimovic back, and now the Colombia striker's representative has praised Milan, calling them a "huge club" ahead of a potential move.
"I am optimistic on Jackson’s move to Milan, but we’re not quite there yet,” Luiz Henrique Pompeo told EuroStadio.it . "There is a good possibility we’ll conclude the transfer, but we are not yet at the all-clear moment."What I can say with certainty is that Martinez is a player worthy of a top club like Milan who wrote history. The Rossoneri are not just a big club, but a huge one.
"Will they pay the €35 million release clause? You’d have to ask Milan that, it is not something that regards us. As for the wages, I cannot discuss figures at the moment. There’s no deal with the player yet."
Porto are set to record a healthy profit from the sale of the Colombian hitman, whom they signed in 2012 for €9m as a replacement for the departed Radamel Falcao and Hulk.
The 28-year-old forward has gone on to prove a hit at Estadio do Dragao, netting 92 times in only 133 games for the Portuguese giants.
Official: Liverpool agree Bogdan deal
Liverpool have agreed a deal to sign Bolton goalkeeper Adam Bogdan on a free transfer.
The 27-year-old will move to Anfield on July 1 when his contract at the Macron Stadium expires and becomes Brendan Rodgers third signing of the summer after James Milner and Danny Ings.
Bogdan, who has over 100 Premier League appearances to his name, will act as back-up to first-choice goalkeeper Simon Mignolet after Brad Jones was released earlier in June.
The Hungarian featured against Liverpool as recently as January, when he was named man of the match after a string of impressive saves during a 0-0 draw in the FA Cup fourth round at Anfield.
Bolton have already acted to replace Bogdan, signing Ben Amos following the expiry of his Manchester United contract.
Liverpool have agreed a deal to sign Bolton goalkeeper Adam Bogdan on a free transfer.
The 27-year-old will move to Anfield on July 1 when his contract at the Macron Stadium expires and becomes Brendan Rodgers third signing of the summer after James Milner and Danny Ings.
Bogdan, who has over 100 Premier League appearances to his name, will act as back-up to first-choice goalkeeper Simon Mignolet after Brad Jones was released earlier in June.
The Hungarian featured against Liverpool as recently as January, when he was named man of the match after a string of impressive saves during a 0-0 draw in the FA Cup fourth round at Anfield.
Bolton have already acted to replace Bogdan, signing Ben Amos following the expiry of his Manchester United contract.
Xavi: Extraordinary Neymar needs to show respect
Former Barcelona captain Xavi believes former team-mate Neymar must think about how he acts on the pitch, insisting that what is acceptable in Brazil does not go down well in Europe.
The midfielder was referring to an altercation Neymar found himself involved in during the final minutes of the Catalans' 3-1 Copa del Rey final win over Athletic Bilbao, when the Basque players had taken offence at a piece of extravagent skill he attempted.
And Xavi used the example to question the 23-year-old's mentality, stating the young Brazilian had to cut out the elements of his game that simply were not tolerated in the European arena."He needs to seriously think about how he should act. Maybe that sort of thing is accepted in Brazil, but it's a thorny issue in Spain," Xavi told Sport .
"He should reflect about it because he's an extraordinary, hard-working and humble lad, but he has that Brazilian attitude, according to which such things are part of the show, while here they're seen as a lack of respect."
Neymar has not only been accused of unsporting behaviour during his stint in Spain by opponents but team-mates as well, with Xavi himself caught on video berating the forward while Barcelona celebrated winning their treble with an open top bus parade on Sunday.
"He was trying to take my shoes off and they were pushing me when I was standing on the edge of the bus. I told them to stop messing around and to focus on the fans, since the parade is for them," he added."It's alright to have three or four beers, but the parade is for the supporters, to thank them, and you can't just be in your own world."
Former Barcelona captain Xavi believes former team-mate Neymar must think about how he acts on the pitch, insisting that what is acceptable in Brazil does not go down well in Europe.
The midfielder was referring to an altercation Neymar found himself involved in during the final minutes of the Catalans' 3-1 Copa del Rey final win over Athletic Bilbao, when the Basque players had taken offence at a piece of extravagent skill he attempted.
And Xavi used the example to question the 23-year-old's mentality, stating the young Brazilian had to cut out the elements of his game that simply were not tolerated in the European arena."He needs to seriously think about how he should act. Maybe that sort of thing is accepted in Brazil, but it's a thorny issue in Spain," Xavi told Sport .
"He should reflect about it because he's an extraordinary, hard-working and humble lad, but he has that Brazilian attitude, according to which such things are part of the show, while here they're seen as a lack of respect."
Neymar has not only been accused of unsporting behaviour during his stint in Spain by opponents but team-mates as well, with Xavi himself caught on video berating the forward while Barcelona celebrated winning their treble with an open top bus parade on Sunday.
"He was trying to take my shoes off and they were pushing me when I was standing on the edge of the bus. I told them to stop messing around and to focus on the fans, since the parade is for them," he added."It's alright to have three or four beers, but the parade is for the supporters, to thank them, and you can't just be in your own world."
Cabaye: I must leave Paris Saint-Germain
Yohan Cabaye says "it's clear" he has to leave Paris Saint-Germain amid reported interest from Crystal Palace.
The France international moved to Parc des Princes from Newcastle in January 2014 and has won two league titles, two Coupe de la Ligue medals and the Coupe de France, but has largely been a bit-part player.
Cabaye has said he would be happy to link back up with former manager Alan Pardew, now at Crystal Palace, and sees no problem in moving to a smaller club as "nothing will change" at Parc des Princes.
When asked by L'Equipe if he expects to stay at PSG, Cabaye replied: "Not really. I know that if I stay I could do everything, but nothing would change.
"I had a talk with Laurent Blanc after the win over Lille. For him, the player in my place is better than me - there you go! It's his opinion, not a problem.
"It's clear I will have to leave before Euro 2016. I know this. At the club, they know it too. It will be important to make the best choice possible.
"I was criticised when I went to Newcastle. Supposedly I didn't want to play the Champions League with Lille but I played in Euro 2012 and the 2014 World Cup. I'm not worried.
"Sometimes it's better to go backward in order to go forward. I enjoyed myself in England, in a league that works for me.
"Today, I am at PSG. Certainly, I'd like it to have happened differently, the club too, but that's reality. If I had the chance to return to England, I hope to get it done, but there could be other destinations."
Yohan Cabaye says "it's clear" he has to leave Paris Saint-Germain amid reported interest from Crystal Palace.
The France international moved to Parc des Princes from Newcastle in January 2014 and has won two league titles, two Coupe de la Ligue medals and the Coupe de France, but has largely been a bit-part player.
Cabaye has said he would be happy to link back up with former manager Alan Pardew, now at Crystal Palace, and sees no problem in moving to a smaller club as "nothing will change" at Parc des Princes.
When asked by L'Equipe if he expects to stay at PSG, Cabaye replied: "Not really. I know that if I stay I could do everything, but nothing would change.
"I had a talk with Laurent Blanc after the win over Lille. For him, the player in my place is better than me - there you go! It's his opinion, not a problem.
"It's clear I will have to leave before Euro 2016. I know this. At the club, they know it too. It will be important to make the best choice possible.
"I was criticised when I went to Newcastle. Supposedly I didn't want to play the Champions League with Lille but I played in Euro 2012 and the 2014 World Cup. I'm not worried.
"Sometimes it's better to go backward in order to go forward. I enjoyed myself in England, in a league that works for me.
"Today, I am at PSG. Certainly, I'd like it to have happened differently, the club too, but that's reality. If I had the chance to return to England, I hope to get it done, but there could be other destinations."
Manchester City prepare world record Pogba bid
Manchester City are primed to make a world-record bid for Paul Pogba, Goal understands.
City face intense competition for the Juventus midfielder's services - most notably from Paris Saint-Germain - but believe a bid in excess of the €120 million Real Madrid paid for Gareth Bale in 2013 will blow their rivals out of the water and convince the player, who will be offered a basic salary of €346,000 a week, of the club's ambitions.
A possible relaxation of the Financial Fair Play rules has given them further encouragement, although it remains to be seen exactly what Uefa's executive committee will propose when they meet in Prague at the end of the month.
Assuming their plans are not scuppered by European football's governing body, City are set to embark on an unprecedented summer of spending in order to revamp a squad that surrendered domestic dominance to Chelsea last season and again failed to progress to the latter stages of the Champions League.
Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, in a message to the club's supporters via their official website, reiterated his desire to bolster Manuel Pellegrini's squad with "high-quality players" and Goal understands the club's hierarchy view Pogba as the potential jewel in their crown.
Pogba, himself, is understood not to be keen on a return to his native France with PSG and would prefer a move to Barcelona and initial talks between Juventus and the newly-crowned European champions were held last month.
A transfer to Luis Enrique's side, however, would be complicated by the transfer ban which would prevent Pogba from playing for Barcelona until January 2016, although, like Aleix Vidal, he is able to sign this summer.
Juventus, meanwhile, are keen to delay Pogba's now almost inevitable departure until after Euro 2016 in the hope a series of stellar performances in that tournament would boost his market value still further.
The Serie A champions have, however, already started making plans for life after Pogba by adding Sami Khedira, who arrived on a free from Real Madrid, to their squad.
Manchester City are primed to make a world-record bid for Paul Pogba, Goal understands.
City face intense competition for the Juventus midfielder's services - most notably from Paris Saint-Germain - but believe a bid in excess of the €120 million Real Madrid paid for Gareth Bale in 2013 will blow their rivals out of the water and convince the player, who will be offered a basic salary of €346,000 a week, of the club's ambitions.
A possible relaxation of the Financial Fair Play rules has given them further encouragement, although it remains to be seen exactly what Uefa's executive committee will propose when they meet in Prague at the end of the month.
Assuming their plans are not scuppered by European football's governing body, City are set to embark on an unprecedented summer of spending in order to revamp a squad that surrendered domestic dominance to Chelsea last season and again failed to progress to the latter stages of the Champions League.
Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, in a message to the club's supporters via their official website, reiterated his desire to bolster Manuel Pellegrini's squad with "high-quality players" and Goal understands the club's hierarchy view Pogba as the potential jewel in their crown.
Pogba, himself, is understood not to be keen on a return to his native France with PSG and would prefer a move to Barcelona and initial talks between Juventus and the newly-crowned European champions were held last month.
A transfer to Luis Enrique's side, however, would be complicated by the transfer ban which would prevent Pogba from playing for Barcelona until January 2016, although, like Aleix Vidal, he is able to sign this summer.
Juventus, meanwhile, are keen to delay Pogba's now almost inevitable departure until after Euro 2016 in the hope a series of stellar performances in that tournament would boost his market value still further.
The Serie A champions have, however, already started making plans for life after Pogba by adding Sami Khedira, who arrived on a free from Real Madrid, to their squad.
Dzeko unhappy but not looking to leave Man City
Edin Dzeko is not happy at the limited first-team opportunites at Manchester City but insists he does not want to leave yet.
The striker was handed a new four-year deal by Manuel Pellegrini last summer but started just 11 Premier League matches, lasting the full 90 minutes just once, as City missed out on the title this term.
City are willing to listen to offers of around €25 million for Dzeko as Pellegrini looks to revamp his aging squad but the Bosnia-Herzegovina international is in no rush to leave the Etihad Stadium.
"I'm used to rumours," he told Goal. "Every year I am said to be signing for one club, then the next one, then a third. I always go somewhere and I'm not even aware of it! But rumours come and go.
"I have three years left on my contract and I'm not thinking about anything else. Maybe the club will get an offer they cannot refuse, maybe I'll get the desire to leave the club, maybe I won't.
"I wasn't happy not playing for City, but I trained as always and I was constantly ready for every match. I'm always there for the team."
Dzeko, though, is now only concerned with the national team and taking a break from football ahead of the new season, but bemoaned his form ahead of Friday's 's Euro 2016 qualifier against Israel.
He added: "I'm not thinking about my future in City right now. My focus is on the national team win against Israel. This is all behind me now and I just want to win on Friday and go on holiday.
"I'm not in good form, because of not playing much for City last season, but I'm ready to give everything I can for win against Israel."
Edin Dzeko is not happy at the limited first-team opportunites at Manchester City but insists he does not want to leave yet.
The striker was handed a new four-year deal by Manuel Pellegrini last summer but started just 11 Premier League matches, lasting the full 90 minutes just once, as City missed out on the title this term.
City are willing to listen to offers of around €25 million for Dzeko as Pellegrini looks to revamp his aging squad but the Bosnia-Herzegovina international is in no rush to leave the Etihad Stadium.
"I'm used to rumours," he told Goal. "Every year I am said to be signing for one club, then the next one, then a third. I always go somewhere and I'm not even aware of it! But rumours come and go.
"I have three years left on my contract and I'm not thinking about anything else. Maybe the club will get an offer they cannot refuse, maybe I'll get the desire to leave the club, maybe I won't.
"I wasn't happy not playing for City, but I trained as always and I was constantly ready for every match. I'm always there for the team."
Dzeko, though, is now only concerned with the national team and taking a break from football ahead of the new season, but bemoaned his form ahead of Friday's 's Euro 2016 qualifier against Israel.
He added: "I'm not thinking about my future in City right now. My focus is on the national team win against Israel. This is all behind me now and I just want to win on Friday and go on holiday.
"I'm not in good form, because of not playing much for City last season, but I'm ready to give everything I can for win against Israel."
El Shaarawy could leave AC Milan - agent
Stephan El Shaarawy is happy at AC Milan but could still leave the club this summer, according to his agent.
The 22-year-old has always been tipped for a bright future with the Rossoneri but had his development plagued by lengthy metatarsal injuries in recent seasons.
And though the forward's agent claims the Italy international remains content to fight for a place in the team next season, he maintains that several sides are circling with a view to make a bid.
"He’s happy at Milan,” Manuel El Shaarawy, Stephan's brother, told Sky Sport Italia. "Let’s see what happens with the team this summer, the transfer campaign seems a bit different from recent years. "We can’t rule anything out.
"There were several offers, both in January and now in the summer, offers which we looked at. There have been several teams interested, Stephan is a player who lots of teams like."He then went on to discuss Sinisa Mihajlovic, who is expected to replace Filippo Inzaghi as coach for next season.
"He’s very good with young players, and getting the best out of them," he said.
El Shaarawy has made over 100 appearances in the Milan shirt since joining from Genoa in 2011, but had been forced to go under the knife twice in as many seasons.
Stephan El Shaarawy is happy at AC Milan but could still leave the club this summer, according to his agent.
The 22-year-old has always been tipped for a bright future with the Rossoneri but had his development plagued by lengthy metatarsal injuries in recent seasons.
And though the forward's agent claims the Italy international remains content to fight for a place in the team next season, he maintains that several sides are circling with a view to make a bid.
"He’s happy at Milan,” Manuel El Shaarawy, Stephan's brother, told Sky Sport Italia. "Let’s see what happens with the team this summer, the transfer campaign seems a bit different from recent years. "We can’t rule anything out.
"There were several offers, both in January and now in the summer, offers which we looked at. There have been several teams interested, Stephan is a player who lots of teams like."He then went on to discuss Sinisa Mihajlovic, who is expected to replace Filippo Inzaghi as coach for next season.
"He’s very good with young players, and getting the best out of them," he said.
El Shaarawy has made over 100 appearances in the Milan shirt since joining from Genoa in 2011, but had been forced to go under the knife twice in as many seasons.
I am not a mercenary, says Gundogan
Borussia Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan insists his next move will not be motivated by money.
The playmaker is out of contract in June 2016 and will not sign a new deal, meaning he is expected to be sold on this summer so the club avoid losing him on a free transfer.
Speculation surrounding his next move has intensified since the conclusion of the 2014-15 campaign, but the 24-year-old has taken offence at some of the stories that have been circulating and has spoken out against the media on Facebook.
"Normally I do not address media reports, especially not on Facebook. I want to explain some things and give you a better insight," he wrote.
"In recent weeks, I, like you, read again and again that where I was signing was already agreed. Today I am in contract negotiations here, tomorrow I'm having a medical there."At first I could smile about it, but then there was talk of 'contract poker' and 'rip-off', that painted me in a bad light.
"Yesterday an ominous number [the reported wages he was demanding] appeared in the media and so I have now decided to say something about it. The 2014-15 season strictly speaking only ends on 30.06.2015.
"Although so far there have hardly been any transfers completed in Europe, rumour to rumour I was supposed to have demanded more and more, putting off making a final decision.
"Some have forgotten: I have one more year on my contract with BVB. What is important to me is that I'm not gambling financially or using delaying tactics.
"What's next for me personally, I will reveal as soon as possible. But only after the season and Germany's important game for the European Championship qualifier with the national team will I decide."
Barcelona, Bayern Munich and outfits in England are circling for the Germany international, who is currently with his country waiting to face Gibraltar on Saturday in Group D of Euro 2016 qualifying action.
Borussia Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan insists his next move will not be motivated by money.
The playmaker is out of contract in June 2016 and will not sign a new deal, meaning he is expected to be sold on this summer so the club avoid losing him on a free transfer.
Speculation surrounding his next move has intensified since the conclusion of the 2014-15 campaign, but the 24-year-old has taken offence at some of the stories that have been circulating and has spoken out against the media on Facebook.
"Normally I do not address media reports, especially not on Facebook. I want to explain some things and give you a better insight," he wrote.
"In recent weeks, I, like you, read again and again that where I was signing was already agreed. Today I am in contract negotiations here, tomorrow I'm having a medical there."At first I could smile about it, but then there was talk of 'contract poker' and 'rip-off', that painted me in a bad light.
"Yesterday an ominous number [the reported wages he was demanding] appeared in the media and so I have now decided to say something about it. The 2014-15 season strictly speaking only ends on 30.06.2015.
"Although so far there have hardly been any transfers completed in Europe, rumour to rumour I was supposed to have demanded more and more, putting off making a final decision.
"Some have forgotten: I have one more year on my contract with BVB. What is important to me is that I'm not gambling financially or using delaying tactics.
"What's next for me personally, I will reveal as soon as possible. But only after the season and Germany's important game for the European Championship qualifier with the national team will I decide."
Barcelona, Bayern Munich and outfits in England are circling for the Germany international, who is currently with his country waiting to face Gibraltar on Saturday in Group D of Euro 2016 qualifying action.
Ibrahimovic: My future is at Paris Saint-Germain
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has declared his intention to stay at Paris Saint-Germain, dismissing any notion he could join AC Milan this summer.
The enigmatic Swede has been linked to an exit from Parc des Princes this summer amidst rumours he is unhappy in France, with former club Milan said to be particularly interested in bringing him back to San Siro.
But the 33-year-old has come out to quash speculation, blasting reporters for fabricating stories and claiming he was simply focused on winning more silverware with the French champions.
"I belong to PSG with a year left on my contract. It's all media speculation," he said at Sweden's training base, where they are preparing to face Montenegro on Sunday in a Euro 2016 qualifier."I don't think any reporters even called Milan CEO Adriano Galliani to ask him if we talked. I have no idea where the stories come from, I guess people need something to write about.
"I really don't think I will leave. We won everything in France this season. I'd rather play for a club I like and enjoy myself. And I am currently playing for a club in the Champions League, and I enjoy it."I belong to PSG. I have a year left on my contract. There is no truth to these stories. I am a PSG player."
Ibrahimovic's statements will come as a blow to Milan, who are said to be close to tying up a deal for Porto striker Jackson Martinez.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has declared his intention to stay at Paris Saint-Germain, dismissing any notion he could join AC Milan this summer.
The enigmatic Swede has been linked to an exit from Parc des Princes this summer amidst rumours he is unhappy in France, with former club Milan said to be particularly interested in bringing him back to San Siro.
But the 33-year-old has come out to quash speculation, blasting reporters for fabricating stories and claiming he was simply focused on winning more silverware with the French champions.
"I belong to PSG with a year left on my contract. It's all media speculation," he said at Sweden's training base, where they are preparing to face Montenegro on Sunday in a Euro 2016 qualifier."I don't think any reporters even called Milan CEO Adriano Galliani to ask him if we talked. I have no idea where the stories come from, I guess people need something to write about.
"I really don't think I will leave. We won everything in France this season. I'd rather play for a club I like and enjoy myself. And I am currently playing for a club in the Champions League, and I enjoy it."I belong to PSG. I have a year left on my contract. There is no truth to these stories. I am a PSG player."
Ibrahimovic's statements will come as a blow to Milan, who are said to be close to tying up a deal for Porto striker Jackson Martinez.
Manchester United have confirmed the signing of PSV forward Memphis Depay on a four-year deal with an option for a fifth season.
The deal for the 21-year-old is believed to be worth around €30.8 million and was completed in early May, despite late interest from rivals Liverpool.
Goal revealed last summer that Louis van Gaal had spoken to Depay to advise him to stay at PSV for one more year before moving to Old Trafford and after an Eredivisie-winning campaign he has finally sealed a move to United.
The Netherlands international said: “This is a dream come true for me; to play for the biggest club in the world and also to have the chance to work with someone who I believe is the best manager in the world, Louis van Gaal.
"I have great belief in my ability and I work hard to strive to achieve my dreams.
"I have been at PSV Eindhoven since I was 12 years old and I would like to thank them for everything. It was a great moment when we won the league and I was so happy to be part of that. This is now a new chapter in my life and one that I am looking forward to.”
Louis van Gaal took Depay to World Cup 2014 as part of his Netherlands squad and added: “I know Memphis well from our time working together in the Netherlands national team. He is a young versatile player who has the ability to play in a number of different positions.
"It will take time for Memphis to get used to the rhythm of the Premier League but I have no doubt that he has the potential to become a great footballer for this club and he is at the right club to continue the good work he has done so far.”
Mancini: Yaya Toure wants to join Inter, I'm not giving up!
Inter coach Roberto Mancini is refusing to give up hope of signing Yaya Toure despite the midfielder insisting he will stay at Manchester City.
The 32-year-old looked destined to depart the Premier League after his agent claimed he was “90 per cent certain to leave” in May, with Inter subsequently claiming they were ready to close the deal .
However, Toure appears to have had a change of heart by insisting he will “definitely stay” and hinting he could even extend his current deal which expires in 2017, if a new contract were offered.However, Mancini says he is keen to talk to the midfielder and has still not ruled out bringing him to San Siro.
"I spent six months explaining to him what he would find at Inter, then he spoke with his club and he fell off of our radar,” he told La Stampa."But I haven't given up on this, I'm waiting to hear his own side of the story and in the meantime I remain hopeful.
"Or else why would he have spent six months telling me that he wanted to come to Milan?"
Inter coach Roberto Mancini is refusing to give up hope of signing Yaya Toure despite the midfielder insisting he will stay at Manchester City.
The 32-year-old looked destined to depart the Premier League after his agent claimed he was “90 per cent certain to leave” in May, with Inter subsequently claiming they were ready to close the deal .
However, Toure appears to have had a change of heart by insisting he will “definitely stay” and hinting he could even extend his current deal which expires in 2017, if a new contract were offered.However, Mancini says he is keen to talk to the midfielder and has still not ruled out bringing him to San Siro.
"I spent six months explaining to him what he would find at Inter, then he spoke with his club and he fell off of our radar,” he told La Stampa."But I haven't given up on this, I'm waiting to hear his own side of the story and in the meantime I remain hopeful.
"Or else why would he have spent six months telling me that he wanted to come to Milan?"
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