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..::Football III::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
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Nine points adrift and in need of a miracle: Real Madrid kiss La Liga goodbye
Real Madrid can kiss goodbye to La Liga for another year. Zinedine Zidane's men dropped two more points in the Primera Division on Sunday and now need a miracle to catch Barcelona. It isn't going to happen.
Barca beat Las Palmas in a hard-fought match on Saturday and after their 2-1 win in Gran Canaria, goalscorer Luis Suarez said: "These are the games that win you league titles."
And 24 hours on, those seemed like wise words. While Barca came through their tough test, Madrid flunked theirs with a 1-1 draw at Malaga. It was Zidane's third away match in La Liga, all in Andalucia, and those have yielded one last-ditch win (at Granada) and two ties (at Betis and Malaga). Simply not good enough.
Barca lead Madrid by nine points and even if Real were to draw level, it would be insufficient unless they were able to thrash the Blaugrana at Camp Nou in the Clasico clash in April and overturn the goal average from their 4-0 loss at home to the Catalans in November.
With just 13 fixtures remaining, it is mission impossible and Atletico are also adrift after the weekend action. Diego Simeone's side were held at home by Villarreal in a goalless game on Sunday and are now eight points off the top. Having lost both home and away to Luis Enrique's men, they too would need to beat Barca's points haul to claim La Liga. It's a tough ask to say the least.
For Madrid, it is yet another failure in a desperately disappointing season. Thrown out of the Copa del Rey for fielding the suspended Denis Cheryshev against Cadiz, Real parted company with Rafa Benitez in January and Zidane claimed he would fight for the two trophies on offer.
But several weeks later, only the Champions League is realistically left and the team's troubles in La Liga over recent seasons represent a sorry state of affairs for the world's richest club.
Against Malaga, Cristiano Ronaldo headed the visitors into the lead and Madrid were somewhat fortunate because he had been in an offside position when the Toni Kroos cross came in. And minutes later, the Portuguese saw a penalty saved by Carlos Kameni in a miss that proved to be costly as Raul Albentosa levelled in the second period and Real had no reply.
Asked afterwards if La Liga is lost for Madrid, Zidane said: "Not at all. It will be difficult because we dropped two points but we will never give up. There are 39 points left. We had a difficult game and we could even have lost. You (the journalists) think La Liga is lost, but neither myself nor the players think that."
It was the right message, but surely not even the most optimistic of fans really believe this stuttering side can make up 10 points on Barca in the final 13 rounds of the championship. There is just no way it will happen.
"We have to be positive because all of the games we have played up until now have been phenomenal," Zidane added.
Whether fans and president Florentino Perez will agree with that assessment is unclear, but the truth is the Frenchman has come in mid-season with limited coaching experience to try and lift a team already struggling under Benitez.
That was never ideal and the 43-year-old needs to be given time to try and turn this situation around. For now, however, it's the same old story for Real Madrid: another season, another disappointment in La Liga - and another reason for Florentino to take a long, hard look at this faltering project.
No Bale, No Benzema , No Pepe, No Varane
Not so good performance by Isco, Jese , Nacho. Marcelo, Ramos, Kroos, Modric, Kovacic, Carvajal were ok but weren't giving their all. Ronaldo missed a horrible penalty
The best performance was by Navas.
Kochchara leading thiya home games gahuwath wedak ne away performance melo wedak ne.
Barcata Villareal, Sevilla, Valencia thamai issarahata gemak denna inne. E okkoma draw unoth wath chance ekak thiyenawa. Eth thawa eka mistake ekak hari unoth iwarama iwarai
We need another good winger or a stiker to support Ronaldo, Bale & Benzema. Aubameyang would be good
James hodai habai hamathissema hodata perform karanne ne.
Shrewsbury Vs Manchester United
Shrewsbury Starting Line-up
Jayson Leutwiler
Zak Whitbread
Jermaine Grandison
Nathaniel Knight-Percival
Ian Blackstone
Shaun Whalley
Junior Brown
Jack Grimmer
Abu Ogogo
Andy Mangan
Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro
&
Manchester United Starting Line-up
Sergio Romero
Chris Smalling
Daley Blind
Gullermo Varela
Cameron Borthwick-Jackson
Memphis Depay
Juan Mata
Ander Herrera
Morgan Schneiderlin
Jesse Lingard
Anthony Martial
Shrewsbury Starting Line-up
Jayson Leutwiler
Zak Whitbread
Jermaine Grandison
Nathaniel Knight-Percival
Ian Blackstone
Shaun Whalley
Junior Brown
Jack Grimmer
Abu Ogogo
Andy Mangan
Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro
&
Manchester United Starting Line-up
Sergio Romero
Chris Smalling
Daley Blind
Gullermo Varela
Cameron Borthwick-Jackson
Memphis Depay
Juan Mata
Ander Herrera
Morgan Schneiderlin
Jesse Lingard
Anthony Martial
Full Time
Shrewsbury 0 Vs 3 Manchester United
Manchester United Goal(s)
Smalling 37'
Mata 45+2'
Lingard 61'
Shrewsbury 0 Vs 3 Manchester United
Manchester United Goal(s)
Smalling 37'
Mata 45+2'
Lingard 61'
Chelsea can win everything - Traore
Bertrand Traore has backed Chelsea to finish the season in triumphant fashion following their 5-1 FA Cup win over Manchester City.
The 20-year-old looped in a late header to cap an emphatic victory for the Blues at Stamford Bridge against an inexperienced team fielded by Manuel Pellegrini in Sunday's fifth-round clash.
Chelsea's Premier League title defence derailed during a dismal first half of the season under Jose Mourinho but, with their FA Cup and Champions League campaigns still alive, Traore is confident they can get their hands on some silverware this term."Chelsea were the champions last season so of course we can win any competition," he told Chelsea TV. "We just have to push a little bit more and keep fighting for each other.
"I like challenges so I am always ready to come on the pitch and show what I can do so I always train for this kind of moments.
"It is a privilege for me, coming from Africa as a young player and being coached by a great manager like Guus Hiddink so I am proud of that."Chelsea will meet Everton in the quarter-finals.
Bertrand Traore has backed Chelsea to finish the season in triumphant fashion following their 5-1 FA Cup win over Manchester City.
The 20-year-old looped in a late header to cap an emphatic victory for the Blues at Stamford Bridge against an inexperienced team fielded by Manuel Pellegrini in Sunday's fifth-round clash.
Chelsea's Premier League title defence derailed during a dismal first half of the season under Jose Mourinho but, with their FA Cup and Champions League campaigns still alive, Traore is confident they can get their hands on some silverware this term."Chelsea were the champions last season so of course we can win any competition," he told Chelsea TV. "We just have to push a little bit more and keep fighting for each other.
"I like challenges so I am always ready to come on the pitch and show what I can do so I always train for this kind of moments.
"It is a privilege for me, coming from Africa as a young player and being coached by a great manager like Guus Hiddink so I am proud of that."Chelsea will meet Everton in the quarter-finals.
Liverpool tracking Monaco talent Mbappe
Liverpool are following the progress of Monaco’s teenage talent Kylian Mbappe, who broke Thierry Henry’s 21-year record on Saturday to become the youngest-ever scorer at the Ligue 1 club, Goal understands.
The Reds have been scouting the explosive 17-year-old attacker, who continues to impress with his dribbling skills and is equally adept with both feet, as part of their process of recruiting promising starlets.
Mbappe netted in the 3-1 win over Troyes at the weekend to better the achievement of Henry, who was six months older when he struck against Lens in April 1995.
The tricky forward had already taken the World Cup winner’s title of being the youngest player to represent Monaco, making his debut at 16 years and 347 days against Caen in December, while Henry was 17 years and 14 days when he first turned out for the club over 20 years ago.
Blessed with speed and superior close control, Mbappe has unsurprisingly caught Liverpool's attention, however no bid is thought to be forthcoming in the summer as the club continue to track his development.
The Merseysiders are not the only outfit interested in the academy graduate, who was primed at Clairefontaine, with Paris St German, Arsenal and Real Madrid all reportedly also circling.
Mbappe is yet to sign a professional contract at Monaco, with the club desperate to tie him down rather than surrender his gifts for a small development fee.
Liverpool have already signed Red Star Belgrade’s Marko Grujic and the 19-year-old will link up with his new team-mates in the summer. Udinese midfielder Piotr Zielinski, who is on loan at Empoli, is another youngster the club have monitored along with highly rated Leicester left-back Ben Chilwell.
Jurgen Klopp is enthused by working with emerging talent, saying: "The best players in the world today are around already, you can see them. What I enjoy more is trying to identify the best players of tomorrow, who has the capacity to improve himself most."
With Liverpool already possessing exciting prospects and looking to add to their pool of starlets, the German will be afforded the opportunity to help produce future premier players as he did at Borussia Dortmund.
However, the 48-year-old is also intent on looking for "the highest quality you can get" in the summer after already securing Schalke defender Joel Matip on a pre-contract agreement.
The defender will join the Reds on a four-deal ahead of next season and Klopp will further reshape his squad in the upcoming window.
Liverpool are following the progress of Monaco’s teenage talent Kylian Mbappe, who broke Thierry Henry’s 21-year record on Saturday to become the youngest-ever scorer at the Ligue 1 club, Goal understands.
The Reds have been scouting the explosive 17-year-old attacker, who continues to impress with his dribbling skills and is equally adept with both feet, as part of their process of recruiting promising starlets.
Mbappe netted in the 3-1 win over Troyes at the weekend to better the achievement of Henry, who was six months older when he struck against Lens in April 1995.
The tricky forward had already taken the World Cup winner’s title of being the youngest player to represent Monaco, making his debut at 16 years and 347 days against Caen in December, while Henry was 17 years and 14 days when he first turned out for the club over 20 years ago.
Blessed with speed and superior close control, Mbappe has unsurprisingly caught Liverpool's attention, however no bid is thought to be forthcoming in the summer as the club continue to track his development.
The Merseysiders are not the only outfit interested in the academy graduate, who was primed at Clairefontaine, with Paris St German, Arsenal and Real Madrid all reportedly also circling.
Mbappe is yet to sign a professional contract at Monaco, with the club desperate to tie him down rather than surrender his gifts for a small development fee.
Liverpool have already signed Red Star Belgrade’s Marko Grujic and the 19-year-old will link up with his new team-mates in the summer. Udinese midfielder Piotr Zielinski, who is on loan at Empoli, is another youngster the club have monitored along with highly rated Leicester left-back Ben Chilwell.
Jurgen Klopp is enthused by working with emerging talent, saying: "The best players in the world today are around already, you can see them. What I enjoy more is trying to identify the best players of tomorrow, who has the capacity to improve himself most."
With Liverpool already possessing exciting prospects and looking to add to their pool of starlets, the German will be afforded the opportunity to help produce future premier players as he did at Borussia Dortmund.
However, the 48-year-old is also intent on looking for "the highest quality you can get" in the summer after already securing Schalke defender Joel Matip on a pre-contract agreement.
The defender will join the Reds on a four-deal ahead of next season and Klopp will further reshape his squad in the upcoming window.
Lazio deny Felipe Anderson to Man Utd rumours
Lazio have not agreed to the €60 million (£47m) sale of Felipe Anderson to Manchester United despite reports to the contrary, the club have confirmed.
Quotes attributed to president Claudio Lotito surfaced on Monday which suggested a deal for the Brazilian to move to Old Trafford was agreed, with the Serie A side set to make a huge profit.
But the Italian club have reacted quickly to rubbish the reports and say any quotes from Lotito on the imminent departure of Anderson to United are pure fabrication.
A statement on their website says: "In reference to statements attributed to President Claudio Lotito regarding the alleged sale of the player Felipe Anderson, S.S. Lazio notes that these reports are devoid of any foundation."
Despite being linked with a move to Old Trafford since last summer, and in spite of a rumoured January bid from United, the Brazilian winger has so far stayed put in the Italian capital.
However, sporting director Igli Tare admitted last week that Lazio should have sold Anderson to United in the winter transfer window, fuelling speculation that the move could be reignited.
Unfortunately for United fans, though, the supposed quotes from Lotito of a done deal appear to be an elaborate hoax and Louis van Gaal - if he is still at the club - will have to wait a while longer to finally get his man.
Anderson has not quite hit the heights he reached last season, when he scored 10 goals and assisted a further seven, having scored or created just eight goals in 24 appearances in the 2015-16 Serie A campaign.
Lazio have not agreed to the €60 million (£47m) sale of Felipe Anderson to Manchester United despite reports to the contrary, the club have confirmed.
Quotes attributed to president Claudio Lotito surfaced on Monday which suggested a deal for the Brazilian to move to Old Trafford was agreed, with the Serie A side set to make a huge profit.
But the Italian club have reacted quickly to rubbish the reports and say any quotes from Lotito on the imminent departure of Anderson to United are pure fabrication.
A statement on their website says: "In reference to statements attributed to President Claudio Lotito regarding the alleged sale of the player Felipe Anderson, S.S. Lazio notes that these reports are devoid of any foundation."
Despite being linked with a move to Old Trafford since last summer, and in spite of a rumoured January bid from United, the Brazilian winger has so far stayed put in the Italian capital.
However, sporting director Igli Tare admitted last week that Lazio should have sold Anderson to United in the winter transfer window, fuelling speculation that the move could be reignited.
Unfortunately for United fans, though, the supposed quotes from Lotito of a done deal appear to be an elaborate hoax and Louis van Gaal - if he is still at the club - will have to wait a while longer to finally get his man.
Anderson has not quite hit the heights he reached last season, when he scored 10 goals and assisted a further seven, having scored or created just eight goals in 24 appearances in the 2015-16 Serie A campaign.
Belletti: Arsenal can shock Barcelona
Former Barcelona full-back Juliano Belletti insists Luis Enrique's men are "not invincible" and could be knocked out of the Champions League by Arsenal.
The Liga leaders arrive in London for Tuesday's last-16 first leg on the back of a 32-game unbeaten run and with their fearsome forward trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar in wonderful form.
They are overwhelming favourites to see off the Gunners – as they did in 2010 and 2011, as well as the 2006 final – but Belletti, who has experience of playing in England with Chelsea, cites football's unpredictability as one reason Arsenal can be optimistic.
"Barcelona are not invincible. That's one of the great things in football. You can have a respected team with a lot of quality, but that doesn't make it invincible," the Brazilian told Omnisport.
"Arsenal are currently at the best level for many years and their confidence gives them a chance. They have already proved their quality. But then comes the hardest part: trying to prevent Barcelona from showing their best qualities. That's really hard, especially with Barca's attack.
"But it has happened before. This Barcelona team have lost and it can happen again. Football is the only collective sport in the world where the best team does not always win."
Despite talking up Arsenal's chances, Belletti, who scored the winner in the 2006 showpiece in Paris, admits Barca hold the edge, due largely to their array of attacking options.
He added: "With Barca's level, they're favourites for everything. In the decisive matches, their decisive players are showing up. "Even when the trio [Messi, Suarez and Neymar] do not play together... if one of them is out, the other two decide things, if two are out, the other one decides things.
"That gives them confidence and makes Barca favourites."
Former Barcelona full-back Juliano Belletti insists Luis Enrique's men are "not invincible" and could be knocked out of the Champions League by Arsenal.
The Liga leaders arrive in London for Tuesday's last-16 first leg on the back of a 32-game unbeaten run and with their fearsome forward trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar in wonderful form.
They are overwhelming favourites to see off the Gunners – as they did in 2010 and 2011, as well as the 2006 final – but Belletti, who has experience of playing in England with Chelsea, cites football's unpredictability as one reason Arsenal can be optimistic.
"Barcelona are not invincible. That's one of the great things in football. You can have a respected team with a lot of quality, but that doesn't make it invincible," the Brazilian told Omnisport.
"Arsenal are currently at the best level for many years and their confidence gives them a chance. They have already proved their quality. But then comes the hardest part: trying to prevent Barcelona from showing their best qualities. That's really hard, especially with Barca's attack.
"But it has happened before. This Barcelona team have lost and it can happen again. Football is the only collective sport in the world where the best team does not always win."
Despite talking up Arsenal's chances, Belletti, who scored the winner in the 2006 showpiece in Paris, admits Barca hold the edge, due largely to their array of attacking options.
He added: "With Barca's level, they're favourites for everything. In the decisive matches, their decisive players are showing up. "Even when the trio [Messi, Suarez and Neymar] do not play together... if one of them is out, the other two decide things, if two are out, the other one decides things.
"That gives them confidence and makes Barca favourites."
Robben unconcerned by goal drought
Bayern Munich attacker Arjen Robben is adamant he is not worried about his lack of goals in recent months as the Bundesliga champions prepare to take on Juventus in the Champions League on Tuesday.
The Netherlands international last found the net for his club on November 7 in the 4-0 Bundesliga win over Stuttgart and has since gone eight games without scoring.
Robben got a number of chances to end his drought in the 3-1 win over Darmstadt at the weekend, but failed to do so as his dry spell continued.
"I am not worried about the lack of goals. I am playing pretty well, I am feeling good, but the ball just does not seem to want to go in," the 32-year-old told Bild.
"But it does not help to think about the chances I missed."I will just keep going. The goals will come again at some point."
Robben saw fellow winger Franck Ribery return to action on Saturday after a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injury and the Dutchman was delighted to see his colleague back on the pitch."It was a wonderful moment. For Franck, for me, for all of us really," he added. "Robbery [Robben and Ribery] is still alive!
"We have been playing together for so long, things are going smoothly again right away."Bayern travel to Turin having not lost to Juve since 2005.
Bayern Munich attacker Arjen Robben is adamant he is not worried about his lack of goals in recent months as the Bundesliga champions prepare to take on Juventus in the Champions League on Tuesday.
The Netherlands international last found the net for his club on November 7 in the 4-0 Bundesliga win over Stuttgart and has since gone eight games without scoring.
Robben got a number of chances to end his drought in the 3-1 win over Darmstadt at the weekend, but failed to do so as his dry spell continued.
"I am not worried about the lack of goals. I am playing pretty well, I am feeling good, but the ball just does not seem to want to go in," the 32-year-old told Bild.
"But it does not help to think about the chances I missed."I will just keep going. The goals will come again at some point."
Robben saw fellow winger Franck Ribery return to action on Saturday after a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injury and the Dutchman was delighted to see his colleague back on the pitch."It was a wonderful moment. For Franck, for me, for all of us really," he added. "Robbery [Robben and Ribery] is still alive!
"We have been playing together for so long, things are going smoothly again right away."Bayern travel to Turin having not lost to Juve since 2005.
Dani Alves hints at Barcelona exit
Barcelona full-back Dani Alves has made it clear he will not stay with the Liga champions until the end of his career.
The Brazil international has made over 350 appearances in all competitions for Barca since joining from Sevilla in 2008.However, before hanging up his boots he wants to return home to play for Brazilian side Bahia, with whom he started his professional career.
The 32-year-old was seemingly close to leaving Camp Nou last season before opting to pen a new two-year deal, but it appears he may be ready to return home when his current contract expires.
"I've already promised that I want to end my career where I started it, as a way of thanking those who gave me the chance to make my name in football," he told the official Fifa website."I want to have a spell there before I retire, but one that's enjoyable for me and for them too.
"I'll be sure to stay in shape so that I can go back and not be a disappointment! The idea is for it to be fun for everybody involved, and then call it a day."
Dani Alves has enjoyed a trophy-laden stint with the Catalans, winning five La Liga titles, three Copa del Reys and three Champions League medals during his time at the club.And he feels Barcelona deserve to be admired for what they have achieved.
"We've seen an incredible version of this team over the last five or six years and, when people thought we couldn't keep it going, we've gone and done it again," he added.
"That's the kind of footballing stability you dream of having in your career. We've maintained our desire to keep competing and that takes us to where we are. "You're aware that your opponents, at the end of the day, also prepare well and might beat you, but that feeling and that desire that we have won't be witnessed in another team for a while.
"It's unique, incredible. For those who are genuinely passionate about football, Barca are worthy of admiration."
Barcelona full-back Dani Alves has made it clear he will not stay with the Liga champions until the end of his career.
The Brazil international has made over 350 appearances in all competitions for Barca since joining from Sevilla in 2008.However, before hanging up his boots he wants to return home to play for Brazilian side Bahia, with whom he started his professional career.
The 32-year-old was seemingly close to leaving Camp Nou last season before opting to pen a new two-year deal, but it appears he may be ready to return home when his current contract expires.
"I've already promised that I want to end my career where I started it, as a way of thanking those who gave me the chance to make my name in football," he told the official Fifa website."I want to have a spell there before I retire, but one that's enjoyable for me and for them too.
"I'll be sure to stay in shape so that I can go back and not be a disappointment! The idea is for it to be fun for everybody involved, and then call it a day."
Dani Alves has enjoyed a trophy-laden stint with the Catalans, winning five La Liga titles, three Copa del Reys and three Champions League medals during his time at the club.And he feels Barcelona deserve to be admired for what they have achieved.
"We've seen an incredible version of this team over the last five or six years and, when people thought we couldn't keep it going, we've gone and done it again," he added.
"That's the kind of footballing stability you dream of having in your career. We've maintained our desire to keep competing and that takes us to where we are. "You're aware that your opponents, at the end of the day, also prepare well and might beat you, but that feeling and that desire that we have won't be witnessed in another team for a while.
"It's unique, incredible. For those who are genuinely passionate about football, Barca are worthy of admiration."
Casillas hits out at Mourinho's final season at Real Madrid
Iker Casillas has criticised Jose Mourinho’s handling of the Real Madrid dressing room during his final season in charge.
Mourinho’s decision to drop Casillas in favour of Diego Lopez during the 2012-13 campaign became the trigger for the Spain international’s eventual exit to Porto last summer.
The 34-year-old was also accused of being a mole in Mourinho’s squad due to his relationship with sports journalist Sara Carbonero, and the goalkeeper admits he felt isolated by the Portuguese’s man management during Madrid's inconsistent run of results.
“Our relationship started to change due to the fact that the team did not do well in the 2012-13 season,” Casillas told TVE.
“You know how it is, when things go well we are all tall and handsome and we are the big boys.
“When it goes wrong, you don't know what is what. In the end, it is in those moments when you have to come together.”
Iker Casillas has criticised Jose Mourinho’s handling of the Real Madrid dressing room during his final season in charge.
Mourinho’s decision to drop Casillas in favour of Diego Lopez during the 2012-13 campaign became the trigger for the Spain international’s eventual exit to Porto last summer.
The 34-year-old was also accused of being a mole in Mourinho’s squad due to his relationship with sports journalist Sara Carbonero, and the goalkeeper admits he felt isolated by the Portuguese’s man management during Madrid's inconsistent run of results.
“Our relationship started to change due to the fact that the team did not do well in the 2012-13 season,” Casillas told TVE.
“You know how it is, when things go well we are all tall and handsome and we are the big boys.
“When it goes wrong, you don't know what is what. In the end, it is in those moments when you have to come together.”
Manchester United chasing fourth place is undignifying - Solskjaer
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says Manchester United have been a major disappointment since the retirement of legendary manager Alex Ferguson and described their battle for fourth place as "undignifying".
Ferguson oversaw a period of unrivalled success in English football during 26 years at Old Trafford, but United have failed to build on his legacy since he stepped aside at the end of the 2012-13 Premier League campaign.
Immediate successor David Moyes lasted less than 12 months in the role and United failed to qualify for the Champions League in their first season without Ferguson at the helm.
Louis van Gaal orchestrated a return to Europe's top table by overseeing a fourth-placed finish last term, but the Dutchman has faced severe criticism over a perceived negative style of play and United are six points off the Champions League places in fifth this season.
While United can still make the top four, Solskjaer - who won the Premier League six times during an 11-year stay at Old Trafford - is saddened to see that as the club's league objective.
"I am very disappointed in the quality over the past few years," Solskjaer told Fotbollskanalen. "We knew it would be tough after the Ferguson era but we have not managed to keep the enthusiasm and the entertaining, attacking football.
"It is very tough to see Manchester City managing to get Pep Guardiola and sign the biggest stars in Europe. I am a big fan of Guardiola and his philosophy and all his teams.
"United have to pull themselves together. They are heading for a very difficult time. We are used to winning. We are used to finishing first. We are used to entertaining the fans. "If we finished second it was a disappointing season, now the talk is about finishing fourth. It is undignifying for a club like Manchester United."
Van Gaal's difficulties in the hot seat have led to speculation the Dutchman could be sacked, with Jose Mourinho heavily linked with the position while club legend Ryan Giggs - United's assistant - is also a reported candidate for the top job.However, Solskjaer does not expect the club to dismiss Van Gaal, regardless of their difficulties this season.
"I think Van Gaal will stay for three years," he added. "It is a plan and a process and I am 100 per cent sure he will stay for three years."Ryan Giggs is the most likely former player to manage the club. He has Manchester United DNA in his body."
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says Manchester United have been a major disappointment since the retirement of legendary manager Alex Ferguson and described their battle for fourth place as "undignifying".
Ferguson oversaw a period of unrivalled success in English football during 26 years at Old Trafford, but United have failed to build on his legacy since he stepped aside at the end of the 2012-13 Premier League campaign.
Immediate successor David Moyes lasted less than 12 months in the role and United failed to qualify for the Champions League in their first season without Ferguson at the helm.
Louis van Gaal orchestrated a return to Europe's top table by overseeing a fourth-placed finish last term, but the Dutchman has faced severe criticism over a perceived negative style of play and United are six points off the Champions League places in fifth this season.
While United can still make the top four, Solskjaer - who won the Premier League six times during an 11-year stay at Old Trafford - is saddened to see that as the club's league objective.
"I am very disappointed in the quality over the past few years," Solskjaer told Fotbollskanalen. "We knew it would be tough after the Ferguson era but we have not managed to keep the enthusiasm and the entertaining, attacking football.
"It is very tough to see Manchester City managing to get Pep Guardiola and sign the biggest stars in Europe. I am a big fan of Guardiola and his philosophy and all his teams.
"United have to pull themselves together. They are heading for a very difficult time. We are used to winning. We are used to finishing first. We are used to entertaining the fans. "If we finished second it was a disappointing season, now the talk is about finishing fourth. It is undignifying for a club like Manchester United."
Van Gaal's difficulties in the hot seat have led to speculation the Dutchman could be sacked, with Jose Mourinho heavily linked with the position while club legend Ryan Giggs - United's assistant - is also a reported candidate for the top job.However, Solskjaer does not expect the club to dismiss Van Gaal, regardless of their difficulties this season.
"I think Van Gaal will stay for three years," he added. "It is a plan and a process and I am 100 per cent sure he will stay for three years."Ryan Giggs is the most likely former player to manage the club. He has Manchester United DNA in his body."
Guardiola: Champions League will not define me at Bayern
Pep Guardiola does not believe his tenure at Bayern Munich will be defined by success or failure in the Champions League.
Guardiola will leave Bayern for Manchester City at the end of this season, with the club on course to secure a third Bundesliga title in three seasons under the former Barcelona coach.
But they have fallen short at the semi-final stage of the Champions League in consecutive campaigns, with Real Madrid and then Barca denying Guardiola the chance to lift the famous trophy he hoisted twice during his tenure at Camp Nou.
Given Jupp Heynckes won the Champions League with Bayern in 2013 before handing over the reins to Guardiola, the Catalan's record in Europe with the Bavarian giants could be seen as a relative failure – a viewpoint the 45-year-old is reluctant to take up.
"I'm not dependant on winning the Champions League," Guardiola told a press conference ahead of his team's round-of-16 tie against Juventus in Turin. "My time at Bayern will have been amazing anyway.
"We have twice reached the semi-finals but sometimes you forget that there are many great clubs in Europe who all have the same goal."What have you done to reach the goal? That is the most important thing."Guardiola expects Juventus to provide a stern test of Bayern's ambitions on Tuesday.
Last season's finalists are unbeaten in 14 matches since their final group game against Sevilla, with last Friday's 0-0 draw at Bologna halting a streak of 13 consecutive domestic victories.
Their set-piece prowess, particularly in light of injury woes that leave Bayern without centre-back options Jerome Boateng (adductor), Javi Martinez (knee) and Holger Badstuber (broken ankle), is of particular concern to Guardiola."Maybe Juventus are the best team in Europe from set-pieces," he said.
"All their players are really big and our central defender is [Joshua] Kimmich. We must avoid giving them set-pieces."Juve are on a great run, have quality and a great playing style. It will be an interesting game.
"If [Mario] Mandzukic plays, I expect that they will press us. But if we are able to overcome the press we can hurt them."
Pep Guardiola does not believe his tenure at Bayern Munich will be defined by success or failure in the Champions League.
Guardiola will leave Bayern for Manchester City at the end of this season, with the club on course to secure a third Bundesliga title in three seasons under the former Barcelona coach.
But they have fallen short at the semi-final stage of the Champions League in consecutive campaigns, with Real Madrid and then Barca denying Guardiola the chance to lift the famous trophy he hoisted twice during his tenure at Camp Nou.
Given Jupp Heynckes won the Champions League with Bayern in 2013 before handing over the reins to Guardiola, the Catalan's record in Europe with the Bavarian giants could be seen as a relative failure – a viewpoint the 45-year-old is reluctant to take up.
"I'm not dependant on winning the Champions League," Guardiola told a press conference ahead of his team's round-of-16 tie against Juventus in Turin. "My time at Bayern will have been amazing anyway.
"We have twice reached the semi-finals but sometimes you forget that there are many great clubs in Europe who all have the same goal."What have you done to reach the goal? That is the most important thing."Guardiola expects Juventus to provide a stern test of Bayern's ambitions on Tuesday.
Last season's finalists are unbeaten in 14 matches since their final group game against Sevilla, with last Friday's 0-0 draw at Bologna halting a streak of 13 consecutive domestic victories.
Their set-piece prowess, particularly in light of injury woes that leave Bayern without centre-back options Jerome Boateng (adductor), Javi Martinez (knee) and Holger Badstuber (broken ankle), is of particular concern to Guardiola."Maybe Juventus are the best team in Europe from set-pieces," he said.
"All their players are really big and our central defender is [Joshua] Kimmich. We must avoid giving them set-pieces."Juve are on a great run, have quality and a great playing style. It will be an interesting game.
"If [Mario] Mandzukic plays, I expect that they will press us. But if we are able to overcome the press we can hurt them."
'Welbeck and Sanchez can worry Barcelona'
Rafael Benitez believes Arsenal can pose a “dangerous” threat to Barcelona if both Danny Welbeck and Alexis Sanchez are playing.
The Gunners will start as underdogs as they look to build up an advantage in the first leg of their last-16 tie with the reigning European champions on Tuesday evening.
However, former Real Madrid boss Benitez reckons Arsenal have a chance of upsetting the odds stacked against them through the return of attacking duo Welbeck and Sanchez from their respective injuries.
“There is no doubt that Barcelona is playing well – with a lot of confidence,” said Benitez.
“But Arsenal have had some good news in the last few weeks. Alexis Sanchez is playing regularly and with Welbeck coming back that will help their game.
“If they can keep the ball with these two players up front they will be more dangerous.”
Barcelona, who won five honours including the Champions League in 2015, haven't lost a game in Europe's elite club competition so far this campaign, winning four and drawing two.
The Catalan giants are also top of La Liga and through to the Copa del Rey final thanks to their lethal front three consisting of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar, who Benitez believes can, in turn, punish Arsenal's defence if they're not careful.
“The key is that you cannot afford to make mistakes in defence," added Benitez. "Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez will punish you. There is no doubt about that.
“However, for me, the interesting thing will be to see if Arsenal play a high line in defence.
“That is one option. Another is to be deeper and play on the counter-attack.
“It will be interesting to see which way Arsene Wenger goes.”
Rafael Benitez believes Arsenal can pose a “dangerous” threat to Barcelona if both Danny Welbeck and Alexis Sanchez are playing.
The Gunners will start as underdogs as they look to build up an advantage in the first leg of their last-16 tie with the reigning European champions on Tuesday evening.
However, former Real Madrid boss Benitez reckons Arsenal have a chance of upsetting the odds stacked against them through the return of attacking duo Welbeck and Sanchez from their respective injuries.
“There is no doubt that Barcelona is playing well – with a lot of confidence,” said Benitez.
“But Arsenal have had some good news in the last few weeks. Alexis Sanchez is playing regularly and with Welbeck coming back that will help their game.
“If they can keep the ball with these two players up front they will be more dangerous.”
Barcelona, who won five honours including the Champions League in 2015, haven't lost a game in Europe's elite club competition so far this campaign, winning four and drawing two.
The Catalan giants are also top of La Liga and through to the Copa del Rey final thanks to their lethal front three consisting of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar, who Benitez believes can, in turn, punish Arsenal's defence if they're not careful.
“The key is that you cannot afford to make mistakes in defence," added Benitez. "Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez will punish you. There is no doubt about that.
“However, for me, the interesting thing will be to see if Arsenal play a high line in defence.
“That is one option. Another is to be deeper and play on the counter-attack.
“It will be interesting to see which way Arsene Wenger goes.”
Shrewsbury 0-3 Manchester United: Smalling strikes as Red Devils ease through
Manchester United eased into the FA Cup sixth round with a 3-0 win over League One Shrewsbury Town to take some of the pressure off under-fire manager Louis van Gaal.
On the back of last week's humiliating Europa League setback at Midtjylland, Van Gaal took few chances at Greenhous Meadow – naming arguably the strongest XI available amid United's injury crisis – and he was rewarded with a composed and clinical performance on Monday.
Shrewsbury were rarely allowed to venture from their own half before the break, let alone threaten a famous upset, such was United's dominance of possession.
The hosts held firm until Chris Smalling's deflected 37th-minute opener, although there was nothing fortunate about Juan Mata's wonderful free-kick in first-half stoppage time.
Jesse Lingard scored the fifth goal of his breakthrough season after the hour mark to rubber-stamp a home quarter-final with West Ham – taking the edge off speculation surrounding Van Gaal's future as United manager, which will undoubtedly crank up once again if Midtjylland are not seen off at the second time of asking later this week.
Smalling wasted an early headed chance when he connected with Daley Blind's corner from the left wing, while Memphis Depay let fly with a pair of horribly wayward strikes from outside the area.
Having threatened to twice clear the stand behind the goal, the Netherlands international got his radar working in the 10th minute, shimmying into space and drawing a save from Jayson Leutwiler low down to the goalkeeper's left.
A goal-bound Depay free-kick hit the unwitting Anthony Martial to go behind in the 26th minute, although United's France forward was soon at the heart of the action – forcing Leutwiler to save with his right boot and watch Abu Ogogo head off the line as the ball looped towards his net.
Shrewsbury's massed ranks of defenders were working overtime to keep United's attacking stars in check but they were caught off guard by Smalling lurking inside their penalty area in 37th minute.The England defender latched on to Morgan Schneiderlin's knockdown and his scuffed shot spun home via a deflection off Nathaniel Knight-Percival.
United secured the increased advantage their dominance merited on the stroke of half-time, with Mata clipping home delightfully after Zak Whitbread brought down Martial on the edge of the box.
At half-time, youngster Joe Riley replaced Cameron Borthwick-Jackson at left-back for his United debut, while another Old Trafford youth product – Larnell Cole – came on for Knight-Percival as Shrewsbury sought greater attacking intent.
That proved to be a forlorn hope, though, as United pinned them back once more, with Depay having a low effort deflected past the post and Martial heading wide after Blind and Mata combined on a cleverly worked short-corner.
The third goal arrived following a rare foray forward from Shrewsbury, with goalkeeper Sergio Romero's clearance allowing United to break down the left, Lingard converting Ander Herrera's fine cross as Mata pulled the strings once more.Lingard should have doubled his individual tally in the 72nd minute but stabbed wide due to a poor second touch.
Substitute Will Keane collected Depay's backheel and hit the post, hurting his groin in the process and leaving United to finish with 10 men – a mishap that could not deny Van Gaal a much-needed win.
Napoli 1-1 AC Milan: Bonaventura frustrates Scudetto challengers
Napoli were unable to retake the Italian summit on Monday, as they drew 1-1 with a newly resilient AC Milan to remain in second place.
Having beaten Napoli last weekend, leaders Juventus dropped points at Bologna on Friday, but Maurizio Sarri's men failed to make the champions pay as Sinisa Mihajlovic's in-form Milan demonstrated their recent improvement with a dogged display.
Napoli - who welcomed back Gonzalo Higuain and Lorenzo Insigne after being rested for the Europa League - enjoyed plenty of possession throughout and were on course for victory when Insigne opened the scoring 39 minutes in.However, a rare lapse in concentration from Napoli's defence allowed Milan to level through Giacomo Bonaventura just before the interval.
Napoli again enjoyed plenty of the ball in the second half and Milan - unbeaten in Serie A since early January - survived a number of scares, including Dries Mertens hitting the post after the hour.
Mihajlovic's side were dispatched 4-0 in October's reverse fixture but demonstrated their improvement to claim an impressive point, while Sarri's frustrations got the better of him as he was sent to the stands by referee Luca Banti late on.
Having strengthened their line-up from the Europa League defeat to Villarreal, Napoli were on top in the early stages, although the pacy Carlos Bacca twice had sights on goal.
While Jorginho and Insigne fired over from distance, clear-cut chances proved few and far between until Cristian Zapata got a crucial block on Higuain's shot to send it wide 19 minutes in.As Napoli piled on the pressure, Jose Callejon and Higuain went close before the hosts deservedly took the lead.
Insigne's low drive from outside the area deflected off Ignazio Abate before finding its way past Gianluigi Donnarumma and into the far corner of Milan's net.
However, the visitors levelled just five minutes later as Napoli switched off, allowing Bonaventura to convert Keisuke Honda's deep delivery at the far post on the stroke of half-time.
Sarri's men were on top after the restart but again struggled to convert possession into chances - Elseid Hysaj frustrating his team-mates by sending a shot high and wide as Napoli struggled for cohesion in the final third.
Donnarumma was required to deny Higuain what would likely have been a certain goal when he cut out Callejon's cross and, when the Spaniard was replaced by Mertens, the substitute went closest to a winner as he stroked Insigne's cross onto the post.
Sarri missed the final stages after being sent to the stands following a heated touchline discussion with the officials and, in his absence, Napoli threw everything at Milan, Higuain's shot deflected wide by Zapata, before substitute Omar El Kaddouri saw a late attempt saved by Donnarumma from close range.Those final attacks were to no avail, however, as the Scudetto hopefuls were left to rue an opportunity missed against a tenacious and improving Milan side.
Napoli were unable to retake the Italian summit on Monday, as they drew 1-1 with a newly resilient AC Milan to remain in second place.
Having beaten Napoli last weekend, leaders Juventus dropped points at Bologna on Friday, but Maurizio Sarri's men failed to make the champions pay as Sinisa Mihajlovic's in-form Milan demonstrated their recent improvement with a dogged display.
Napoli - who welcomed back Gonzalo Higuain and Lorenzo Insigne after being rested for the Europa League - enjoyed plenty of possession throughout and were on course for victory when Insigne opened the scoring 39 minutes in.However, a rare lapse in concentration from Napoli's defence allowed Milan to level through Giacomo Bonaventura just before the interval.
Napoli again enjoyed plenty of the ball in the second half and Milan - unbeaten in Serie A since early January - survived a number of scares, including Dries Mertens hitting the post after the hour.
Mihajlovic's side were dispatched 4-0 in October's reverse fixture but demonstrated their improvement to claim an impressive point, while Sarri's frustrations got the better of him as he was sent to the stands by referee Luca Banti late on.
Having strengthened their line-up from the Europa League defeat to Villarreal, Napoli were on top in the early stages, although the pacy Carlos Bacca twice had sights on goal.
While Jorginho and Insigne fired over from distance, clear-cut chances proved few and far between until Cristian Zapata got a crucial block on Higuain's shot to send it wide 19 minutes in.As Napoli piled on the pressure, Jose Callejon and Higuain went close before the hosts deservedly took the lead.
Insigne's low drive from outside the area deflected off Ignazio Abate before finding its way past Gianluigi Donnarumma and into the far corner of Milan's net.
However, the visitors levelled just five minutes later as Napoli switched off, allowing Bonaventura to convert Keisuke Honda's deep delivery at the far post on the stroke of half-time.
Sarri's men were on top after the restart but again struggled to convert possession into chances - Elseid Hysaj frustrating his team-mates by sending a shot high and wide as Napoli struggled for cohesion in the final third.
Donnarumma was required to deny Higuain what would likely have been a certain goal when he cut out Callejon's cross and, when the Spaniard was replaced by Mertens, the substitute went closest to a winner as he stroked Insigne's cross onto the post.
Sarri missed the final stages after being sent to the stands following a heated touchline discussion with the officials and, in his absence, Napoli threw everything at Milan, Higuain's shot deflected wide by Zapata, before substitute Omar El Kaddouri saw a late attempt saved by Donnarumma from close range.Those final attacks were to no avail, however, as the Scudetto hopefuls were left to rue an opportunity missed against a tenacious and improving Milan side.
Midtjylland taught us a valuable free kick lesson – Van Gaal
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal says that Europa League opponents Midtjylland taught him a valuable lesson during last Thursday’s 2-1 first-leg loss.
The Dutchman credited Juan Mata’s free kick, which put the Red Devils two goals up against Shrewsbury Town en route to a 3-0 FA Cup success, as being masterminded by the Danish outfit.
United placed three men behind the League One outfit’s wall, and after the free kick was struck the players broke away. Previously, the manager had interpreted that as being offside, but he discovered this is not the case.
“We have learned because we analysed FC Midtjyllandand and we saw they were doing that,” he told BT Sport.
“We thought it was always offside so we asked the referees and they said it’s not offside, you can do that.
“That’s why we have learned about the taking of the free-kicks. Today we scored and that’s good.”
United meet Midtjylland in the Europa League second leg on Thursday at Old Trafford and are favoured to turn around their deficit.
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal says that Europa League opponents Midtjylland taught him a valuable lesson during last Thursday’s 2-1 first-leg loss.
The Dutchman credited Juan Mata’s free kick, which put the Red Devils two goals up against Shrewsbury Town en route to a 3-0 FA Cup success, as being masterminded by the Danish outfit.
United placed three men behind the League One outfit’s wall, and after the free kick was struck the players broke away. Previously, the manager had interpreted that as being offside, but he discovered this is not the case.
“We have learned because we analysed FC Midtjyllandand and we saw they were doing that,” he told BT Sport.
“We thought it was always offside so we asked the referees and they said it’s not offside, you can do that.
“That’s why we have learned about the taking of the free-kicks. Today we scored and that’s good.”
United meet Midtjylland in the Europa League second leg on Thursday at Old Trafford and are favoured to turn around their deficit.
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