Manchester United latath ituru home matches deka win karanna wei last 16 yanna.CSKA Moscow 1-1 Manchester United: Martial rescues point for Van Gaal's men
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Messi: I don't compete with Ronaldo & he doesn't compete with me
Barcelona star Lionel Messi insists he doesn’t see himself as being in competition with Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo despite the constant comparisons that exist between the pair.
As individuals, Messi and Ronaldo have dominated the game for the best part of the last decade, with the last seven Ballon d’Ors won by one of the two.
That’s expected to become eight in January, with Messi tipped to win it back from Ronaldo, who has won it for the last two years.
However, the Argentine is adamant neither of them are spurred on by the heights the other is hitting.
“These are things that [other] people say,” Messi said when asked about his rivalry with the Portuguese international in an interview with Yahoo!.
“I don’t compete with Cristiano and I suppose he would not compete with me — what I want is the very best for my teams and that’s what I am working for.”
Messi is currently sidelined with a knee injury until the middle of next month, with Barca due to visit Ronaldo’s Madrid on November 21.
The Catalan side hope to have him back for that trip to the Spanish capital, but the 28-year-old is not setting himself any deadlines and will only come back when the time is right.
“[I will return] when I’m feeling [better] and the doctors tell me that I can,” he continued.
“I am improving every day without setting myself any targets. I have always said that I don’t set myself any dates because it isn’t up to me.
“As much as I would like to play tomorrow, the doctors wouldn’t let me. When they tell me that I have recovered completely will be the time that I will make my return onto the pitch.
“Being injured is the worst feeling in the world for a sportsman, but right from the start I accepted that I had an injury and that the only thing to do was to recover from it the best way possible.”
Once he’s back in action, Messi says he doesn’t ”want to look too far ahead” in relation to his professional future because he is happy in La Liga with Barcelona.
He did also admit that he has made subtle changes to his diet to keep his performances at the very top level, although he wanted to point out that some of the stories published regarding those changes have been exaggerated.
As for life away from Barca, Messi refused to accept that his relationship with Argentina will always be one of love-hate.
“The truth is I don’t [accept that],” he added, “because I know very well that while the majority of us Argentines are very passionate, we also treat the stars who represent us well.
“There are some who insult us and do not value those who play for their country, but even then I don’t reproach them because everyone is entitled to their own opinion.”
Barcelona star Lionel Messi insists he doesn’t see himself as being in competition with Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo despite the constant comparisons that exist between the pair.
As individuals, Messi and Ronaldo have dominated the game for the best part of the last decade, with the last seven Ballon d’Ors won by one of the two.
That’s expected to become eight in January, with Messi tipped to win it back from Ronaldo, who has won it for the last two years.
However, the Argentine is adamant neither of them are spurred on by the heights the other is hitting.
“These are things that [other] people say,” Messi said when asked about his rivalry with the Portuguese international in an interview with Yahoo!.
“I don’t compete with Cristiano and I suppose he would not compete with me — what I want is the very best for my teams and that’s what I am working for.”
Messi is currently sidelined with a knee injury until the middle of next month, with Barca due to visit Ronaldo’s Madrid on November 21.
The Catalan side hope to have him back for that trip to the Spanish capital, but the 28-year-old is not setting himself any deadlines and will only come back when the time is right.
“[I will return] when I’m feeling [better] and the doctors tell me that I can,” he continued.
“I am improving every day without setting myself any targets. I have always said that I don’t set myself any dates because it isn’t up to me.
“As much as I would like to play tomorrow, the doctors wouldn’t let me. When they tell me that I have recovered completely will be the time that I will make my return onto the pitch.
“Being injured is the worst feeling in the world for a sportsman, but right from the start I accepted that I had an injury and that the only thing to do was to recover from it the best way possible.”
Once he’s back in action, Messi says he doesn’t ”want to look too far ahead” in relation to his professional future because he is happy in La Liga with Barcelona.
He did also admit that he has made subtle changes to his diet to keep his performances at the very top level, although he wanted to point out that some of the stories published regarding those changes have been exaggerated.
As for life away from Barca, Messi refused to accept that his relationship with Argentina will always be one of love-hate.
“The truth is I don’t [accept that],” he added, “because I know very well that while the majority of us Argentines are very passionate, we also treat the stars who represent us well.
“There are some who insult us and do not value those who play for their country, but even then I don’t reproach them because everyone is entitled to their own opinion.”
Iniesta returns to training ahead of Eibar game
Barcelona have been handed boost ahead of Sunday’s game against Eibar after Andres Iniesta returned to training on Thursday.
The midfielder picked up a hamstring injury in the Champions League win over Bayer Leverkusen at the end of September and was ruled out for three weeks.
He has since missed the wins over Rayo Vallecano and BATE Borisov and the league defeat to Sevilla at the Sanchez Pizjuan.
However, he’s now back working with his team-mates and Luis Enrique should be able to count on him when Basque minnows Eibar visit Camp Nou this weekend.
Iniesta’s return comes after confirmation on Wednesday that Sergi Roberto will be out of action for the next 10 days.
The 23-year-old midfielder joins Rafinha and Lionel Messi on the treatment table, while Arda Turan and Aleix Vidal are unable to play until January due to registration ban imposed on the club by Fifa.
Barcelona have been handed boost ahead of Sunday’s game against Eibar after Andres Iniesta returned to training on Thursday.
The midfielder picked up a hamstring injury in the Champions League win over Bayer Leverkusen at the end of September and was ruled out for three weeks.
He has since missed the wins over Rayo Vallecano and BATE Borisov and the league defeat to Sevilla at the Sanchez Pizjuan.
However, he’s now back working with his team-mates and Luis Enrique should be able to count on him when Basque minnows Eibar visit Camp Nou this weekend.
Iniesta’s return comes after confirmation on Wednesday that Sergi Roberto will be out of action for the next 10 days.
The 23-year-old midfielder joins Rafinha and Lionel Messi on the treatment table, while Arda Turan and Aleix Vidal are unable to play until January due to registration ban imposed on the club by Fifa.
Neymar returns to Brazil squad to face Argentina
Barcelona forward Neymar will return to the Brazil squad that will face Argentina and Peru in World Cup qualification next month, coach Dunga announced on Thursday.
Brazil travel to Buenos Aires to take on Argentina on November 12 before hosting Peru on November 17.
Captain Neymar returns to the squad after completing his four-match suspension following his red card against Colombia in June’s Copa America.
Goalkeeper Jefferson has also retained his place following suggestions he may be dropped and will face added competition from Corinthians' Cassio, who will be hoping to make his international debut as the sole newcomer to the squad.
Cassio's club-mate Renato Augusto has also earned a recall as the in-form Jadson was overlooked.There was once again no room for Paris Saint-Germain's Thiago Silva in the group, with Gil once again favoured as fourth-choice centre-back.
The five-time world champions opened their World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Chile before bouncing back with a 3-1 victory over Venezuela.
Ricardo Oliveira, 35, has retained his place in the squad after ending an eight-year international absence with Brazil’s third against Venezuela and is set to battle it out with Zenit forward Hulk to start in the centre-forward role.
Oliveira came into the squad last month as a late replacement for Roberto Firmino and remains at the Liverpool's man's expense. Philippe Couintho was also left out.
Coach Dunga faced criticism from the local media following the defeat to Chile with some local reports suggesting defeat to Argentina could cost him his job, though he will take some comfort from the fact that Lionel Messi is unlikely to make the clash due to a knee injury.
Goalkeepers : Alisson (Internacional), Jefferson(Botafogo), Cassio (Corinthians).
Defenders : Miranda (Inter Milan), Marquinhos (PSG), David Luiz (PSG), Gil (Corinthians). Danilo (Real Madrid). Dani Alves (Barcelona), Filipe Luis (Atletico Madrid), Marcelo (Real Madrid)
Midfielders : Fernandinho (Manchester City), Elias (Corinthians), Renato Augusto (Corinthians), Luiz Gustavo (Wolfsburg), Oscar (Chelsea), Lucas Lima (Santos), Willian (Chelsea), Kaka (Orlando City), Douglas Costa (Bayern Munich).
Forwards : Neymar (Barcelona), Hulk (Zenit), Ricardo Oliveira (Santos).
Barcelona forward Neymar will return to the Brazil squad that will face Argentina and Peru in World Cup qualification next month, coach Dunga announced on Thursday.
Brazil travel to Buenos Aires to take on Argentina on November 12 before hosting Peru on November 17.
Captain Neymar returns to the squad after completing his four-match suspension following his red card against Colombia in June’s Copa America.
Goalkeeper Jefferson has also retained his place following suggestions he may be dropped and will face added competition from Corinthians' Cassio, who will be hoping to make his international debut as the sole newcomer to the squad.
Cassio's club-mate Renato Augusto has also earned a recall as the in-form Jadson was overlooked.There was once again no room for Paris Saint-Germain's Thiago Silva in the group, with Gil once again favoured as fourth-choice centre-back.
The five-time world champions opened their World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Chile before bouncing back with a 3-1 victory over Venezuela.
Ricardo Oliveira, 35, has retained his place in the squad after ending an eight-year international absence with Brazil’s third against Venezuela and is set to battle it out with Zenit forward Hulk to start in the centre-forward role.
Oliveira came into the squad last month as a late replacement for Roberto Firmino and remains at the Liverpool's man's expense. Philippe Couintho was also left out.
Coach Dunga faced criticism from the local media following the defeat to Chile with some local reports suggesting defeat to Argentina could cost him his job, though he will take some comfort from the fact that Lionel Messi is unlikely to make the clash due to a knee injury.
Goalkeepers : Alisson (Internacional), Jefferson(Botafogo), Cassio (Corinthians).
Defenders : Miranda (Inter Milan), Marquinhos (PSG), David Luiz (PSG), Gil (Corinthians). Danilo (Real Madrid). Dani Alves (Barcelona), Filipe Luis (Atletico Madrid), Marcelo (Real Madrid)
Midfielders : Fernandinho (Manchester City), Elias (Corinthians), Renato Augusto (Corinthians), Luiz Gustavo (Wolfsburg), Oscar (Chelsea), Lucas Lima (Santos), Willian (Chelsea), Kaka (Orlando City), Douglas Costa (Bayern Munich).
Forwards : Neymar (Barcelona), Hulk (Zenit), Ricardo Oliveira (Santos).
Wenger blames Wales for Ramsey and Bale injuries
Arsene Wenger has pointed the finger at Wales after Arsenal lost Aaron Ramsey for the next month to a hamstring injury.
The Welsh midfielder was taken off during the Gunners’ 2-0 win over Bayern Munich on Tuesday and the first game he will miss is this weekend’s Premier League clash with Everton.
However, Wenger feels Ramsey and Real Madrid’s Gareth Bale — who is currently sidelined with a calf problem — could have avoided their injuries if they hadn’t played in their country’s dead-rubber against Andorra after qualifying for Euro 2016.
“[Ramsey] had a scan [on Friday], but he's out,” the Arsenal boss confirmed to the club’s official website.
“I believe he will be out until after the next international break [November 13]. With the last international break, the fact he played against Andorra certainly cost him and Bale as well.”
Wenger also confirmed that Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina will be out for a similar amount of time as Ramsey.
Jack Wilshere, Danny Welbeck and Tomas Rosicky, meanwhile, will be out of action seen until “the new year”.
Arsene Wenger has pointed the finger at Wales after Arsenal lost Aaron Ramsey for the next month to a hamstring injury.
The Welsh midfielder was taken off during the Gunners’ 2-0 win over Bayern Munich on Tuesday and the first game he will miss is this weekend’s Premier League clash with Everton.
However, Wenger feels Ramsey and Real Madrid’s Gareth Bale — who is currently sidelined with a calf problem — could have avoided their injuries if they hadn’t played in their country’s dead-rubber against Andorra after qualifying for Euro 2016.
“[Ramsey] had a scan [on Friday], but he's out,” the Arsenal boss confirmed to the club’s official website.
“I believe he will be out until after the next international break [November 13]. With the last international break, the fact he played against Andorra certainly cost him and Bale as well.”
Wenger also confirmed that Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina will be out for a similar amount of time as Ramsey.
Jack Wilshere, Danny Welbeck and Tomas Rosicky, meanwhile, will be out of action seen until “the new year”.
Ribery quits training after just 17 minutes
Bayern Munich star Franck Ribery has suffered a further injury setback after he hobbled off the training pitch just 17 minutes into Thursday's training session.
The 32-year-old hasn't played since March as a result of an ankle problem he sustained in the Champions League clash with Shakhtar Donetsk last season.
Ribery attempted to step up his rehabilitation with a running session but pulled up after feeling pain in the offending ankle shortly after starting the drill.
Last month, Bayern chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge had backed the France international to make his return before the end of the year.
He said: "What was important is to have the right diagnosis and treatment. I am not that pessimistic and I think in the not too distant future he will come back.
"That of course does not mean this week or next week. But he will come back. I am fully convinced of that and that is the key thing.”
The Bavarians have since bought winger Douglas Costa from Shakhtar to cover for Ribery in his absence, with the Brazil international making an impressive start to life at the club.
When he eventually returns, the former Galatasaray man will also face competition from Kingsley Coman, who arrived on a two-year loan deal from Juventus over the summer.
Bayern Munich star Franck Ribery has suffered a further injury setback after he hobbled off the training pitch just 17 minutes into Thursday's training session.
The 32-year-old hasn't played since March as a result of an ankle problem he sustained in the Champions League clash with Shakhtar Donetsk last season.
Ribery attempted to step up his rehabilitation with a running session but pulled up after feeling pain in the offending ankle shortly after starting the drill.
Last month, Bayern chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge had backed the France international to make his return before the end of the year.
He said: "What was important is to have the right diagnosis and treatment. I am not that pessimistic and I think in the not too distant future he will come back.
"That of course does not mean this week or next week. But he will come back. I am fully convinced of that and that is the key thing.”
The Bavarians have since bought winger Douglas Costa from Shakhtar to cover for Ribery in his absence, with the Brazil international making an impressive start to life at the club.
When he eventually returns, the former Galatasaray man will also face competition from Kingsley Coman, who arrived on a two-year loan deal from Juventus over the summer.
Bilic: It's a good time to play Chelsea
Slaven Bilic is optimistic West Ham will catch Chelsea at the right time when they host their struggling London rivals in the Premier League on Saturday.
Former Besiktas boss Bilic has impressed in the opening months of the season at Upton Park, guiding the club to fourth on the table, having orchestrated impressive away wins at Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool.
Defending champions Chelsea, meanwhile, have toiled and languish down in 12th with just three wins from the opening nine games.
"This is a good time to play Chelsea, but they need to have a few good results," Bilic said in Thursday's news conference.
"Chelsea looked sharp against [Dynamo] Kiev and I watched the game [a 0-0 Champions League draw]. I was not happy afterwards because they looked really good as a team.
"It is a big challenge for us and a big test. It is not me against [Jose] Mourinho, it is West Ham against Chelsea.
"They are the champions and he is the best manager around. I am looking forward to it.
"I know Mourinho's team are always hungry and no-one expected them to be where they are now. Sometimes that happens in football.
"I have watched all their games. If there was something major wrong he would be the first to change it. I see them finishing in top four."
Slaven Bilic is optimistic West Ham will catch Chelsea at the right time when they host their struggling London rivals in the Premier League on Saturday.
Former Besiktas boss Bilic has impressed in the opening months of the season at Upton Park, guiding the club to fourth on the table, having orchestrated impressive away wins at Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool.
Defending champions Chelsea, meanwhile, have toiled and languish down in 12th with just three wins from the opening nine games.
"This is a good time to play Chelsea, but they need to have a few good results," Bilic said in Thursday's news conference.
"Chelsea looked sharp against [Dynamo] Kiev and I watched the game [a 0-0 Champions League draw]. I was not happy afterwards because they looked really good as a team.
"It is a big challenge for us and a big test. It is not me against [Jose] Mourinho, it is West Ham against Chelsea.
"They are the champions and he is the best manager around. I am looking forward to it.
"I know Mourinho's team are always hungry and no-one expected them to be where they are now. Sometimes that happens in football.
"I have watched all their games. If there was something major wrong he would be the first to change it. I see them finishing in top four."
De Bruyne: I've never played as a striker!
Kevin De Bruyne admitted he was surprised to find himself playing as a striker after scoring the winner in Manchester City's 2-1 Champions League win over Sevilla.
The Group D tie was all square in the 76th minute when City manager Manuel Pellegrini replaced Wilfried Bony - the only recognised striker in his injury-hit squad - with defensive midfielder Fernando.
Belgium international De Bruyne, who normally plays as a winger or a No.10, moved into the central role vacated by Bony, and it paid off as he struck in injury-time.
"I never played so much in my life as a striker to be honest," De Bruyne said afterwards."Obviously we don't have so many strikers at the moment and if the manager asks me to play there I will try.
"I'm a different type of a player - [operating] in the space and these type of things. Maybe the manager thought that could cause a little bit of trouble for them."
The 24-year-old - who now has five goals in his first seven games for City - believes his versatility gives him an advantage.
"Even when I was on loan at [Werder] Bremen [from Chelsea] I played in six different position," De Bruyne said."I think it is more of an advantage for me than a disadvantage. You can be shuffled around but it’s fine."
City take on rivals Manchester United on Sunday in the Premier League but De Bruyne doesn't expect Wednesday's result to have any bearing on that encounter.
"[The impact will be] nothing - it’s a totally different league," he added."Every game we play, the next game is a different league and a different tension to the league.
"Obviously we feel good. In the last games we did OK so hopefully we can do the same on Sunday."
Kevin De Bruyne admitted he was surprised to find himself playing as a striker after scoring the winner in Manchester City's 2-1 Champions League win over Sevilla.
The Group D tie was all square in the 76th minute when City manager Manuel Pellegrini replaced Wilfried Bony - the only recognised striker in his injury-hit squad - with defensive midfielder Fernando.
Belgium international De Bruyne, who normally plays as a winger or a No.10, moved into the central role vacated by Bony, and it paid off as he struck in injury-time.
"I never played so much in my life as a striker to be honest," De Bruyne said afterwards."Obviously we don't have so many strikers at the moment and if the manager asks me to play there I will try.
"I'm a different type of a player - [operating] in the space and these type of things. Maybe the manager thought that could cause a little bit of trouble for them."
The 24-year-old - who now has five goals in his first seven games for City - believes his versatility gives him an advantage.
"Even when I was on loan at [Werder] Bremen [from Chelsea] I played in six different position," De Bruyne said."I think it is more of an advantage for me than a disadvantage. You can be shuffled around but it’s fine."
City take on rivals Manchester United on Sunday in the Premier League but De Bruyne doesn't expect Wednesday's result to have any bearing on that encounter.
"[The impact will be] nothing - it’s a totally different league," he added."Every game we play, the next game is a different league and a different tension to the league.
"Obviously we feel good. In the last games we did OK so hopefully we can do the same on Sunday."
'There's no quality' - Scholes blasts Manchester United
Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has blasted his former club, suggesting that they did not display any quality or attacking movement in the 1-1 draw away to CSKA Moscow in Wednesday's Champions League night.
Louis van Gaal's side went 1-0 down in the first half as an Anthony Martial handball led to a penalty for the Moscow club, and though David de Gea managed to save Roman Eremenko's spot-kick, Seydou Doumbia was on hand to net the rebound.
Martial then went on to atone for his error, levelling the scores with a second-half header to give United a point.
But Scholes, who twice won the competition with the Old Trafford side, was unimpressed by the display, suggesting that there was "no quality" on show, questioning Van Gaal's tactical plan.
"You look at the United team, there is no quality, no movement. People are not running," the former midfielder told BT Sport.
"Is it the way they are told to play?"
Scholes also took aim at United's attacking midfielders, suggesting that the line of three behind Wayne Rooney did not do enough to provide England's leading goalscorer with service or attacking movement to work with.
“It’s all safety playing across the pitch. I can’t remember a pass in to Rooney. There is no movement," he continued.
“You’ve got midfield players who can run - Ander Herrera, Jesse Lingaard, Anthony Martial - stick the ball into Rooney and run but there’s not one of them even thinking of running.”
Van Gaal: I've already forgiven Martial!
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal says he has already forgiven Anthony Martial for his 'stupid' mistake against CSKA Moscow in Tuesday's 1-1 Champions League draw in Russia.
Seydou Doumbia gave the hosts the lead, reacting first after David de Gea saved Roman Eremenko's penalty following Martial's handball.
The French teenager made amends, however, heading in Antonio Valencia's cross the rescue a point for United.
Van Gaal labelled Martial's mistake 'stupid' but praised the summer signing's overall display.
When asked by the club's official website if he had forgiven Martial, the Dutchman replied: "Yes of course! He was playing again with a lot of threat to the opponent and he always plays at a certain level, he’s very consistent. For a 19-year-old boy I like that.
"It was a stupid reaction of Anthony, but before that maybe it was offside. From the bench I thought it was, but I don’t know. It’s the first time he’s done it and there always has to be a first time!"
The United boss felt his side were unlucky not to pick up all three points after a strong display in Moscow.
"For us it was very unlucky because I think we controlled the game. I don’t think we played too fast though in ball possession, it was too slow in the first half. We improved that in the second half and scored a fantastic goal. We could have won but 'could have' doesn't count in football."
"A reaction like Martial – yes, it was stupid, but it happens and we are all human beings. Angry is not the right word, maybe disappointed because we were playing too slowly in ball possession."
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal says he has already forgiven Anthony Martial for his 'stupid' mistake against CSKA Moscow in Tuesday's 1-1 Champions League draw in Russia.
Seydou Doumbia gave the hosts the lead, reacting first after David de Gea saved Roman Eremenko's penalty following Martial's handball.
The French teenager made amends, however, heading in Antonio Valencia's cross the rescue a point for United.
Van Gaal labelled Martial's mistake 'stupid' but praised the summer signing's overall display.
When asked by the club's official website if he had forgiven Martial, the Dutchman replied: "Yes of course! He was playing again with a lot of threat to the opponent and he always plays at a certain level, he’s very consistent. For a 19-year-old boy I like that.
"It was a stupid reaction of Anthony, but before that maybe it was offside. From the bench I thought it was, but I don’t know. It’s the first time he’s done it and there always has to be a first time!"
The United boss felt his side were unlucky not to pick up all three points after a strong display in Moscow.
"For us it was very unlucky because I think we controlled the game. I don’t think we played too fast though in ball possession, it was too slow in the first half. We improved that in the second half and scored a fantastic goal. We could have won but 'could have' doesn't count in football."
"A reaction like Martial – yes, it was stupid, but it happens and we are all human beings. Angry is not the right word, maybe disappointed because we were playing too slowly in ball possession."
De Bruyne: Manchester City will not be defensive against United
Kevin De Bruyne has stressed that Manchester City will not change their style of play in this weekend's derby against Manchester United and will look to attack Louis van Gaal's side at Old Trafford.
City sit top of the Premier League with 21 points from nine games heading into Sunday's encounter, holding a two-point lead over United, and De Bruyne is keen to widen the gap.
"We shouldn't play defensive because our main strength lies going forward, though we need to stay disciplined. We know it will be difficult," De Bruyne told the club's official website.
"Manchester United have been a top team for a long time and the rivalry between us and them obviously runs deep, but the season is very long.
"That said, we know what it means to our supporters and it would be nice if we could go there and get three points. If you win it's nice for everyone and that’s what we’ll be trying to do.
"If you take a point or even lose, it's not ideal but there are still almost 30 games to go so this result won't be the deciding factor in who wins the title. There are still many points to be won and lost in the coming months."
City were beaten 4-2 on their last trip to their rivals in April.
Kevin De Bruyne has stressed that Manchester City will not change their style of play in this weekend's derby against Manchester United and will look to attack Louis van Gaal's side at Old Trafford.
City sit top of the Premier League with 21 points from nine games heading into Sunday's encounter, holding a two-point lead over United, and De Bruyne is keen to widen the gap.
"We shouldn't play defensive because our main strength lies going forward, though we need to stay disciplined. We know it will be difficult," De Bruyne told the club's official website.
"Manchester United have been a top team for a long time and the rivalry between us and them obviously runs deep, but the season is very long.
"That said, we know what it means to our supporters and it would be nice if we could go there and get three points. If you win it's nice for everyone and that’s what we’ll be trying to do.
"If you take a point or even lose, it's not ideal but there are still almost 30 games to go so this result won't be the deciding factor in who wins the title. There are still many points to be won and lost in the coming months."
City were beaten 4-2 on their last trip to their rivals in April.
Buffon: It is great to beat Del Piero's record
Gianluigi Buffon has expressed his delight at surpassing Alessandro Del Piero's record for minutes played for Juventus in Wednesday's goalless Champions League draw with Borussia Monchengladbach.
The 37-year-old played the entire 90 minutes at Juventus Stadium and has now spent 48,839 minutes on the pitch for the reigning Serie A champions.
"Undoubtedly it is a great feeling to beat Del Piero's record," Buffon told Mediaset Premium.
"But the most satisfying thing about football is sharing your victories as a squad, whether it is with your team-mates, the backroom staff, the fans of the club as a whole."
After winning their opening two Group D fixtures, Juventus dropped points for the first time against Gladbach, yet Buffon was hesitant to complain about the result.
"I think it was a fair result even though, on balance, we deserved to win," he added.
"That said, we didn't make many clear-cut opportunities to score.
"We dominated the game territorially and we looked to attack far more than Borussia but in the end they deserved the point just as much as we did."
Gianluigi Buffon has expressed his delight at surpassing Alessandro Del Piero's record for minutes played for Juventus in Wednesday's goalless Champions League draw with Borussia Monchengladbach.
The 37-year-old played the entire 90 minutes at Juventus Stadium and has now spent 48,839 minutes on the pitch for the reigning Serie A champions.
"Undoubtedly it is a great feeling to beat Del Piero's record," Buffon told Mediaset Premium.
"But the most satisfying thing about football is sharing your victories as a squad, whether it is with your team-mates, the backroom staff, the fans of the club as a whole."
After winning their opening two Group D fixtures, Juventus dropped points for the first time against Gladbach, yet Buffon was hesitant to complain about the result.
"I think it was a fair result even though, on balance, we deserved to win," he added.
"That said, we didn't make many clear-cut opportunities to score.
"We dominated the game territorially and we looked to attack far more than Borussia but in the end they deserved the point just as much as we did."
Too early to compare Vardy to Neymar, says Ranieri
Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri insists it is premature to compare Jamie Vardy to Barcelona superstar Neymar despite the England international currently topping the Premier League goalscoring charts.
The 28-year-old scored twice in last weekend's come-from-behind 2-2 draw at Southampton to take his tally to nine from nine for the season, three clear of his nearest rivals Sergio Aguero, Alexis Sanchez and Georginio Wijnaldum.
In comparison, Brazil captain Neymar has eight in seven La Liga appearances, but Ranieri believes Vardy is not in the same class as the Barca star.
"It is too early to talk about Vardy along with Neymar," Ranieri told reporters. "It is the first year he showed his attitude in the Premier League. If he can continue in this way it will be fantastic."
Vardy, who has scored is six consecutive league matches, has been linked with a move away from the King Power Stadium in January due to his fantastic form but Ranieri has no intention of selling.
"We don't sell Vardy," he added. "He's very happy here. Nobody goes in January, not him, not Riyad [Mahrez], not [Jeffrey] Schlupp. Me, the club and our fans need all our best players."
Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri insists it is premature to compare Jamie Vardy to Barcelona superstar Neymar despite the England international currently topping the Premier League goalscoring charts.
The 28-year-old scored twice in last weekend's come-from-behind 2-2 draw at Southampton to take his tally to nine from nine for the season, three clear of his nearest rivals Sergio Aguero, Alexis Sanchez and Georginio Wijnaldum.
In comparison, Brazil captain Neymar has eight in seven La Liga appearances, but Ranieri believes Vardy is not in the same class as the Barca star.
"It is too early to talk about Vardy along with Neymar," Ranieri told reporters. "It is the first year he showed his attitude in the Premier League. If he can continue in this way it will be fantastic."
Vardy, who has scored is six consecutive league matches, has been linked with a move away from the King Power Stadium in January due to his fantastic form but Ranieri has no intention of selling.
"We don't sell Vardy," he added. "He's very happy here. Nobody goes in January, not him, not Riyad [Mahrez], not [Jeffrey] Schlupp. Me, the club and our fans need all our best players."
Benzema resumes Real Madrid squad training
Real Madrid have received some encouraging news ahead of this weekend's La Liga encounter with Celta Vigo as Karim Benzema has resumed squad training.
The France striker sustained a thigh injury while away on international duty earlier this month and has since been out of action.
Benzema missed the 3-0 league win over Levante due to the knock and was also forced to sit out the scoreless Champions League draw with Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday.
Nevertheless, the 27-year-old could return to the squad for Saturday's encounter with Celta.
Benzema has been a key figure for Madrid this season, netting seven goals in eight appearances in all competitions.
Meanwhile, Gareth Bale, Pepe, Dani Carvajal, James Rodriguez and Alvaro Arbeloa all continue to recover and seem set to miss the trip to Vigo.
Real Madrid have received some encouraging news ahead of this weekend's La Liga encounter with Celta Vigo as Karim Benzema has resumed squad training.
The France striker sustained a thigh injury while away on international duty earlier this month and has since been out of action.
Benzema missed the 3-0 league win over Levante due to the knock and was also forced to sit out the scoreless Champions League draw with Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday.
Nevertheless, the 27-year-old could return to the squad for Saturday's encounter with Celta.
Benzema has been a key figure for Madrid this season, netting seven goals in eight appearances in all competitions.
Meanwhile, Gareth Bale, Pepe, Dani Carvajal, James Rodriguez and Alvaro Arbeloa all continue to recover and seem set to miss the trip to Vigo.
Martial must avoid Januzaj scenario - Pallister
Former Manchester United defender Gary Pallister has attempted to downplay the hype surrounding Anthony Martial following the 19-year-old's sublime start to life at Old Trafford since joining the club from Monaco.
The Frenchman has netted five goals in nine appearances in all competitions for United this term and recently picked up the PFA Fans' Player of the Month award for September.
Pallister, who was United between 1989 and 1998, has warned that Martial still has a long road ahead of him, though, if he is to become a top player and has mentioned Adnan Januzaj as an example of how a career can stall.
Januzaj hugely impressed when he broke into the first team at United in 2013-14, but has since failed to become a first-team regular and was shipped out on loan to Borussia Dortmund earlier this campaign.
"It's really exciting to see a young player come into the team and have an immediate impact," Pallister told 888Sport.
"But we saw that a couple of seasons ago with Januzaj, where we all went on about him being the new Ryan Giggs or the next Georgie Best.
"In the early part of his career he took Manchester United by storm, but he's flat-lined since then.
"So you've got to be really careful when you throw all these accolades at young players."
Former Manchester United defender Gary Pallister has attempted to downplay the hype surrounding Anthony Martial following the 19-year-old's sublime start to life at Old Trafford since joining the club from Monaco.
The Frenchman has netted five goals in nine appearances in all competitions for United this term and recently picked up the PFA Fans' Player of the Month award for September.
Pallister, who was United between 1989 and 1998, has warned that Martial still has a long road ahead of him, though, if he is to become a top player and has mentioned Adnan Januzaj as an example of how a career can stall.
Januzaj hugely impressed when he broke into the first team at United in 2013-14, but has since failed to become a first-team regular and was shipped out on loan to Borussia Dortmund earlier this campaign.
"It's really exciting to see a young player come into the team and have an immediate impact," Pallister told 888Sport.
"But we saw that a couple of seasons ago with Januzaj, where we all went on about him being the new Ryan Giggs or the next Georgie Best.
"In the early part of his career he took Manchester United by storm, but he's flat-lined since then.
"So you've got to be really careful when you throw all these accolades at young players."
Anderlecht 2-1 Tottenham: Okaka strike downs Spurs
Stefano Okaka's 75th minute goal gave Anderlecht a surprise 2-1 win over Tottenham at the Constant Vanden Stock Stadium in Belgium on Thursday.
Christian Eriksen put the visitors ahead in the Group J clash after just four minutes, but Guillaume Gillet's fine equaliser ensured the scores were level at half-time.
Substitute Harry Kane spurned a great chance to put Spurs back in front and the Premier League side were made to pay just moments later, as Okaka turned in Frank Acheampong's cross with 15 minutes to play to seal the win.
Spurs were unbeaten since September's League Cup loss to Arsenal, but they struggled to impose themselves at times against a high-pressing Anderlecht, who now move level with Mauricio Pochettino's side on four points with three games played.
Hugo Lloris flapped at a cross and Olivier Deschacht headed the resulting corner straight at the Spurs keeper, before Eriksen tested Silvio Proto from 20 yards in a frantic opening exchange.
It was Eriksen who struck the opener, slotting calmly past Proto from 12 yards after Kara's attempted clearance came straight off Leander Dendoncker's face and fell kindly into his path.
Eriksen teed up Erik Lamela for a glorious chance for a second, but the Argentina winger fired straight at Proto when unmarked inside the area, with Spurs left to rue that miss as Anderlecht hauled themselves level.
Steven Defour's corner bounced through the box to Gillet, who took a touch before firing a half-volley through the crowded area and into the bottom-left corner.
Okaka failed to connect properly with Imoh Ezekiel's cross from right in front of Lloris, and the France number one then had to be alert to beat away Okaka's strike from 18 yards out after Spurs failed to clear a free-kick.
Lamela prodded past Proto only for the offside flag to come to Anderlecht's rescue, before Okaka again tested Lloris with a low drive from 25 yards out as a thrilling first half finished level.
Lloris was by far the busier keeper at the start of the second half, reacting superbly to deny Okaka after his header bounced awkwardly through the six-yard box.
Anderlecht looked the more likely to break the deadlock, but substitute Kane spurned a great opening for Spurs, shooting straight at Proto after holding off Kara inside the area.
Okaka had been impressive throughout and the Italian striker was rewarded with the winning goal thanks to some dreadful Spurs defending. Acheampong ran clear in behind Kieran Trippier and squared for Okaka, who finished high past Lloris despite Jan Vertonghen's best efforts.
Dendoncker headed just wide of the near post from a corner and Dennis Praet was denied on the goal-line by Lloris, but, despite late Spurs pressure, Anderlecht held on for their first win of the Europa League campaign.
Stefano Okaka's 75th minute goal gave Anderlecht a surprise 2-1 win over Tottenham at the Constant Vanden Stock Stadium in Belgium on Thursday.
Christian Eriksen put the visitors ahead in the Group J clash after just four minutes, but Guillaume Gillet's fine equaliser ensured the scores were level at half-time.
Substitute Harry Kane spurned a great chance to put Spurs back in front and the Premier League side were made to pay just moments later, as Okaka turned in Frank Acheampong's cross with 15 minutes to play to seal the win.
Spurs were unbeaten since September's League Cup loss to Arsenal, but they struggled to impose themselves at times against a high-pressing Anderlecht, who now move level with Mauricio Pochettino's side on four points with three games played.
Hugo Lloris flapped at a cross and Olivier Deschacht headed the resulting corner straight at the Spurs keeper, before Eriksen tested Silvio Proto from 20 yards in a frantic opening exchange.
It was Eriksen who struck the opener, slotting calmly past Proto from 12 yards after Kara's attempted clearance came straight off Leander Dendoncker's face and fell kindly into his path.
Eriksen teed up Erik Lamela for a glorious chance for a second, but the Argentina winger fired straight at Proto when unmarked inside the area, with Spurs left to rue that miss as Anderlecht hauled themselves level.
Steven Defour's corner bounced through the box to Gillet, who took a touch before firing a half-volley through the crowded area and into the bottom-left corner.
Okaka failed to connect properly with Imoh Ezekiel's cross from right in front of Lloris, and the France number one then had to be alert to beat away Okaka's strike from 18 yards out after Spurs failed to clear a free-kick.
Lamela prodded past Proto only for the offside flag to come to Anderlecht's rescue, before Okaka again tested Lloris with a low drive from 25 yards out as a thrilling first half finished level.
Lloris was by far the busier keeper at the start of the second half, reacting superbly to deny Okaka after his header bounced awkwardly through the six-yard box.
Anderlecht looked the more likely to break the deadlock, but substitute Kane spurned a great opening for Spurs, shooting straight at Proto after holding off Kara inside the area.
Okaka had been impressive throughout and the Italian striker was rewarded with the winning goal thanks to some dreadful Spurs defending. Acheampong ran clear in behind Kieran Trippier and squared for Okaka, who finished high past Lloris despite Jan Vertonghen's best efforts.
Dendoncker headed just wide of the near post from a corner and Dennis Praet was denied on the goal-line by Lloris, but, despite late Spurs pressure, Anderlecht held on for their first win of the Europa League campaign.
Lazio 3-1 Rosenborg: Candreva seals win for 10-man hosts
Lazio kept their place at the top of Group G after a thrilling 3-1 victory over Rosenborg in the Europa League on Thursday, having played much of the game with just 10 men.
A first-half goal from Alessandro Matri saw the Serie A side enter the interval ahead, despite Nascimento Mauricio’s early dismissal after just six minutes for a foul on Alexander Soderlund.
Felipe Anderson added a second before the hour mark and, although Soderlund pulled a goal back for the Norweigen side, Antonio Candreva sealed the win 10 minutes from time at Stadio Olimpico.
Stefano Pioli made four changes from the Lazio side that secured a 3-2 victory over St Etienne as Abdoulay Konko, Danilo Cataldi, Antonio Candreva and Alessandro Matri all returned.
Ronsenborg manager Kare Ingebrigtsen, on the other hand, introduced Mikael Dorsin, Mike Jensen and Yann-Erik De Lanlay in three changes from the side that lost 1-0 to Dnipro at home.
A near-perfect start for Lazio saw them hit the post twice inside three minutes as Wesley Hoedt crashed a header off the bar from a corner, before Alessandro Mauri hit the upright on the rebound.
Yet within moments they found themselves down to 10 men after Mauricio was handed a straight red card for bringing Soderlund down through on goal when he was last man.
Despite their numerical advantage, the visitors fell a goal down midway through the first-half after Antonio Candreva threaded a pass into Matri, who cut a clinical effort inside the near post.
Rosenborg had been the brighter of the two sides and may have felt unlucky to enter the break a goal behind, with both Jorgen Skjelvik and Soderlund hiting the post.
But they had only themselves to blame in the second half after squandering possession to allow Matri the chance to set-up Felipe Anderson on the edge of the box, who cushioned his shot into the net.
Soderlund pulled one back 15 minutes later with a fine header after a pin-point cross from Skjelvik.
That could have proved the catalyst for a comeback only for De Lanlay to concede a penalty, which allowed Candreva the opportunity to score a third, despite Andre Hansen saving the initial effort.
Rosenborg may have added a consolation goal in stoppage time when Anders Konradsen drew a foul inside the box, yet Soderlund compounded their misery by missing from the spot.
Lazio kept their place at the top of Group G after a thrilling 3-1 victory over Rosenborg in the Europa League on Thursday, having played much of the game with just 10 men.
A first-half goal from Alessandro Matri saw the Serie A side enter the interval ahead, despite Nascimento Mauricio’s early dismissal after just six minutes for a foul on Alexander Soderlund.
Felipe Anderson added a second before the hour mark and, although Soderlund pulled a goal back for the Norweigen side, Antonio Candreva sealed the win 10 minutes from time at Stadio Olimpico.
Stefano Pioli made four changes from the Lazio side that secured a 3-2 victory over St Etienne as Abdoulay Konko, Danilo Cataldi, Antonio Candreva and Alessandro Matri all returned.
Ronsenborg manager Kare Ingebrigtsen, on the other hand, introduced Mikael Dorsin, Mike Jensen and Yann-Erik De Lanlay in three changes from the side that lost 1-0 to Dnipro at home.
A near-perfect start for Lazio saw them hit the post twice inside three minutes as Wesley Hoedt crashed a header off the bar from a corner, before Alessandro Mauri hit the upright on the rebound.
Yet within moments they found themselves down to 10 men after Mauricio was handed a straight red card for bringing Soderlund down through on goal when he was last man.
Despite their numerical advantage, the visitors fell a goal down midway through the first-half after Antonio Candreva threaded a pass into Matri, who cut a clinical effort inside the near post.
Rosenborg had been the brighter of the two sides and may have felt unlucky to enter the break a goal behind, with both Jorgen Skjelvik and Soderlund hiting the post.
But they had only themselves to blame in the second half after squandering possession to allow Matri the chance to set-up Felipe Anderson on the edge of the box, who cushioned his shot into the net.
Soderlund pulled one back 15 minutes later with a fine header after a pin-point cross from Skjelvik.
That could have proved the catalyst for a comeback only for De Lanlay to concede a penalty, which allowed Candreva the opportunity to score a third, despite Andre Hansen saving the initial effort.
Rosenborg may have added a consolation goal in stoppage time when Anders Konradsen drew a foul inside the box, yet Soderlund compounded their misery by missing from the spot.
Fiorentina 1-2 Lech Poznan: Viola go down at home
Dawid Kownacki and Maciej Gajos each made swift impacts off the bench as Lech Poznan recorded a shock 2-1 victory at Serie A leaders Fiorentina in the Europa League.
Lech, who sit bottom of Poland's Ekstraklasa, were predictably forced onto the back foot for the majority of Thursday's match at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.
However, Fiorentina lacked a cutting edge and were punished when Kownacki opened the scoring two minutes after his introduction as a second-half substitute.
Kownacki was duly withdrawn, only for his replacement, Gajos, to score within four minutes of coming on - putting Lech 2-0 ahead against the run of play.
Giuseppe Rossi halved his side's deficit in the 90th minute, but Lech held on in a frantic finale - featuring a red card for Ante Rebic - to leave Group I wide open.
Paulo Sousa fielded a much-changed side ahead of Sunday's top-of-the-table clash with Roma in Serie A.
And although Viola dominated possession in the opening period, a lack of quality in the final third ensured visiting goalkeeper Jasmin Buric was infrequently tested after he had struggled to deal with a Matias Fernandez free-kick in the second minute.
Khouma Babacar appeared the most likely to break the deadlock for Fiorentina prior to the interval and forced a fine save from Buric on the hour, the goalkeeper diving low to his left to beat away a right-footed effort from 12 yards.
However, it was Lech who surprisingly broke the deadlock as Kownacki wasted little time in making an impression, bundling the ball home from Gergo Lovrencsics' low cross.
Buric made another fine stop to deny Matias Vecino before Lech added a second. Marcin Kaminski turned a free-kick back across goal and Gajos coolly found the bottom-right corner.
Rossi stroked home a Fernandez cross to give Fiorentina a lifeline, but Lech were not to be denied as, after Rebic had seen red for a late challenge, Babacar headed over from close range in the final minute of stoppage time.
Dawid Kownacki and Maciej Gajos each made swift impacts off the bench as Lech Poznan recorded a shock 2-1 victory at Serie A leaders Fiorentina in the Europa League.
Lech, who sit bottom of Poland's Ekstraklasa, were predictably forced onto the back foot for the majority of Thursday's match at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.
However, Fiorentina lacked a cutting edge and were punished when Kownacki opened the scoring two minutes after his introduction as a second-half substitute.
Kownacki was duly withdrawn, only for his replacement, Gajos, to score within four minutes of coming on - putting Lech 2-0 ahead against the run of play.
Giuseppe Rossi halved his side's deficit in the 90th minute, but Lech held on in a frantic finale - featuring a red card for Ante Rebic - to leave Group I wide open.
Paulo Sousa fielded a much-changed side ahead of Sunday's top-of-the-table clash with Roma in Serie A.
And although Viola dominated possession in the opening period, a lack of quality in the final third ensured visiting goalkeeper Jasmin Buric was infrequently tested after he had struggled to deal with a Matias Fernandez free-kick in the second minute.
Khouma Babacar appeared the most likely to break the deadlock for Fiorentina prior to the interval and forced a fine save from Buric on the hour, the goalkeeper diving low to his left to beat away a right-footed effort from 12 yards.
However, it was Lech who surprisingly broke the deadlock as Kownacki wasted little time in making an impression, bundling the ball home from Gergo Lovrencsics' low cross.
Buric made another fine stop to deny Matias Vecino before Lech added a second. Marcin Kaminski turned a free-kick back across goal and Gajos coolly found the bottom-right corner.
Rossi stroked home a Fernandez cross to give Fiorentina a lifeline, but Lech were not to be denied as, after Rebic had seen red for a late challenge, Babacar headed over from close range in the final minute of stoppage time.
Fenerbahce 1-0 Ajax: Fernandao grabs late triumph
Fernandao came to the rescue for Fenerbahce to secure a 1-0 victory over Ajax in Istanbul on Thursday night.
The striker’s goal in the 89th minute proved to be enough to gift Vitor Pereira’s men all three points in the crucial Group A clash, just when it looked as though the teams were headed for a stalemate in Istanbul.
Ajax pushed the pace early on and looked confident from the opening kick-off, but Fenerbache responded brilliantly, denied an opener only by the wonderful goalkeeping of Jasper Cillessen.
Inside 15 minutes it was Diego who tried his luck from distance forcing the keeper into action, before Nani sent a delightful cross in for Robin Van Persie seconds later, but miraculously the Ajax keeper was able get a hand to it to keep it off the line.
The confidence seemed to wear off quickly as Frank de Boer’s side dictated possession for the remainder of the half, though lacked the quality needed to really test Fabiano.
Again it was Fenerbahce who threatened to open the scoring when Van Persie found a pocket of space atop the area after 32 minutes on the counter, but his shot lacked the pace to beat Cillessen who was in fine form on the night, ensuring the match remained scoreless into the break.
With added pressure on the hosts to walk away with three points, they arrived in the second half with a spring in their step and began to take charge.
Their persistence nearly paid off shortly past the hour mark as Josef de Souza directed a header at goal from Nani’s corner, but Lasse Schone positioned himself well at the far post to make a vital clearance off the line.
Ajax responded through Davy Klaassen, but the skipper saw his improvised flick on from a Schone free kick stopped brilliantly by Fabiano.
Vitor Pereira grew frustrated with the lack of quality posed by his side in attack and decided it was time to bring on his leading goalscorer Fernandao for the final 20 minutes, setting the scene for a dramatic finish.
The Brazilian rose well to meet Caner Erkin’s corner kick in the final minute of the 90 and his header took enough of a deflection off Klaassen to trick Cillessen, nestling into the back of the net for the elusive winner.
Fernandao came to the rescue for Fenerbahce to secure a 1-0 victory over Ajax in Istanbul on Thursday night.
The striker’s goal in the 89th minute proved to be enough to gift Vitor Pereira’s men all three points in the crucial Group A clash, just when it looked as though the teams were headed for a stalemate in Istanbul.
Ajax pushed the pace early on and looked confident from the opening kick-off, but Fenerbache responded brilliantly, denied an opener only by the wonderful goalkeeping of Jasper Cillessen.
Inside 15 minutes it was Diego who tried his luck from distance forcing the keeper into action, before Nani sent a delightful cross in for Robin Van Persie seconds later, but miraculously the Ajax keeper was able get a hand to it to keep it off the line.
The confidence seemed to wear off quickly as Frank de Boer’s side dictated possession for the remainder of the half, though lacked the quality needed to really test Fabiano.
Again it was Fenerbahce who threatened to open the scoring when Van Persie found a pocket of space atop the area after 32 minutes on the counter, but his shot lacked the pace to beat Cillessen who was in fine form on the night, ensuring the match remained scoreless into the break.
With added pressure on the hosts to walk away with three points, they arrived in the second half with a spring in their step and began to take charge.
Their persistence nearly paid off shortly past the hour mark as Josef de Souza directed a header at goal from Nani’s corner, but Lasse Schone positioned himself well at the far post to make a vital clearance off the line.
Ajax responded through Davy Klaassen, but the skipper saw his improvised flick on from a Schone free kick stopped brilliantly by Fabiano.
Vitor Pereira grew frustrated with the lack of quality posed by his side in attack and decided it was time to bring on his leading goalscorer Fernandao for the final 20 minutes, setting the scene for a dramatic finish.
The Brazilian rose well to meet Caner Erkin’s corner kick in the final minute of the 90 and his header took enough of a deflection off Klaassen to trick Cillessen, nestling into the back of the net for the elusive winner.
Mourinho will get Chelsea back on top, says Lucio
Former Brazil defender Lucio has backed Jose Mourinho to overcome his recent difficulties and help Chelsea back to the top of the Premier League.
The reigning English champions sit 12th in the league table with a mere 11 points from nine games, and lie in third place in the Champions League group currently.
Nevertheless, Lucio is confident his former coach, under whom he won the treble with Inter in 2010, will eventually turn things around at Stamford Bridge.
"In Europe, Barcelona, Bayern [Munich], Real [Madrid] play at a very high level. In England also you have Manchester United, Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool who, along with Chelsea, play at a high level," World Cup-winning centre-back Lucio told IBTimes UK .
"It is not easy to stay at the top all the time. Knowing him, he is not happy with the situation as well. But, 100 per cent he will come out of it and be back at the top very soon. He is capable of it and will do it.
"Whenever the team loses, Mourinho is never smiling in the next training session. He always wants to win every game.
"At Inter, when we lost a match once, all of us avoided him in the next training. I ran past him not even looking at his face.
"But for me, he is the best manager I have played under in my career."
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