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..::Football IV::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
- Start date
Dortmund have been super bad this season. So many goals conceded. Bayern will have an easy job it seems. However the overall, all of the Bundesliga teams have much better quality. Every match is highly entertaining. Leipzig are on a roll beating every good team there is.
Not to mention the Bundesliga 2 which I follow closely. Highly enjoyable.
Not to mention the Bundesliga 2 which I follow closely. Highly enjoyable.
Memphis Depay declares 'Manchester is Red again'
Memphis Depay watched from the bench as Manchester United earned a manner of revenge over rivals Manchester City in the EFL Cup at Old Trafford.Juan Mata scored the only goal of the game as Jose Mourinho’s men knocked Pep Guardiola’s side out of the competition on Wednesday.
It was a welcome result for the hosts after City had won the Premier League encounter earlier in the season and on the back of a chastening defeat at Chelsea on Sunday.
And Memphis took to Twitter after the result on Wednesday night to declare that his United team-mates had taken control of Manchester again after dumping City out of the EFL Cup.
Memphis Depay watched from the bench as Manchester United earned a manner of revenge over rivals Manchester City in the EFL Cup at Old Trafford.Juan Mata scored the only goal of the game as Jose Mourinho’s men knocked Pep Guardiola’s side out of the competition on Wednesday.
It was a welcome result for the hosts after City had won the Premier League encounter earlier in the season and on the back of a chastening defeat at Chelsea on Sunday.
And Memphis took to Twitter after the result on Wednesday night to declare that his United team-mates had taken control of Manchester again after dumping City out of the EFL Cup.
'He's still got it' - Lampard backs Mourinho at Manchester United
Frank Lampard insists that Jose Mourinho has ‘still got it’, but admits the Portuguese will need time to turn things around at Manchester United.
With the Red Devils having spent big over the summer, many were touting them as potential Premier League title challengers.The Old Trafford outfit have, however, finished outside of the top four in two of the three seasons since they last lifted the top-flight crown.
Lampard believes re-establishing themselves as Champions League regulars should be the priority for now, with there still plenty of rebuilding work to be done before sights can be set on the top domestic prize.He remains convinced that Mourinho is the right man to oversee that project, with his former boss at Chelsea a proven performer when it comes to delivering tangible success.
Lampard, now on the books at MLS side New York City, told the BBC’s 'The Premier League Show': “He's still got it. Of course he has.“Again, he is trying to find the best team. An improvement would be to get in the top four. “I'm not sure they can win it with what they've got, even though Mourinho is a great manager, there's something not quite there.”
Mourinho will be hoping that his United side have turned a corner following their EFL Cup victory over derby rivals Manchester City on Wednesday, with the required response offered to Sunday’s humbling defeat at Chelsea.Kicking on from this point is now be the target, with the Red Devils still only six points adrift of the pacesetters in the battle for Premier League supremacy despite suffering something of a wobble of late.
Frank Lampard insists that Jose Mourinho has ‘still got it’, but admits the Portuguese will need time to turn things around at Manchester United.
With the Red Devils having spent big over the summer, many were touting them as potential Premier League title challengers.The Old Trafford outfit have, however, finished outside of the top four in two of the three seasons since they last lifted the top-flight crown.
Lampard believes re-establishing themselves as Champions League regulars should be the priority for now, with there still plenty of rebuilding work to be done before sights can be set on the top domestic prize.He remains convinced that Mourinho is the right man to oversee that project, with his former boss at Chelsea a proven performer when it comes to delivering tangible success.
Lampard, now on the books at MLS side New York City, told the BBC’s 'The Premier League Show': “He's still got it. Of course he has.“Again, he is trying to find the best team. An improvement would be to get in the top four. “I'm not sure they can win it with what they've got, even though Mourinho is a great manager, there's something not quite there.”
Mourinho will be hoping that his United side have turned a corner following their EFL Cup victory over derby rivals Manchester City on Wednesday, with the required response offered to Sunday’s humbling defeat at Chelsea.Kicking on from this point is now be the target, with the Red Devils still only six points adrift of the pacesetters in the battle for Premier League supremacy despite suffering something of a wobble of late.
Manchester United boss Mourinho says Rojo was phenomenal in derby
Jose Mourinho has hailed Marcos Rojo's "phenomenal" performance in Manchester United's 1-0 EFL Cup win over Manchester City on Wednesday.
Rojo has been struggling to secure regular first-team action this campaign, but formed a centre-back pairing with Daley Blind in the absence of Chris Smalling and Eric Bailly.
"We are used to playing with Bailly and Smalling but we have lost both to injury," Mourinho told MUTV."We had to play with two left-footed central defenders and Marcos had not played for a while, but he played phenomenally."
Mourinho was equally pleased with Ander Herrera's performance in midfield, while he also had words of encouragement for Paul Pogba and Michael Carrick."We were getting confident step by step, we were starting to trust our defensive organisation," Mourinho added."Then in the second half, especially Herrera, Carrick and Pogba, they increased the tempo. They started pressing higher.
"I thought Ander brought the team to different levels of intensity and pressing. Then we started recovering balls and being dangerous."United have been paired with West Ham in the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup.
Jose Mourinho has hailed Marcos Rojo's "phenomenal" performance in Manchester United's 1-0 EFL Cup win over Manchester City on Wednesday.
Rojo has been struggling to secure regular first-team action this campaign, but formed a centre-back pairing with Daley Blind in the absence of Chris Smalling and Eric Bailly.
"We are used to playing with Bailly and Smalling but we have lost both to injury," Mourinho told MUTV."We had to play with two left-footed central defenders and Marcos had not played for a while, but he played phenomenally."
Mourinho was equally pleased with Ander Herrera's performance in midfield, while he also had words of encouragement for Paul Pogba and Michael Carrick."We were getting confident step by step, we were starting to trust our defensive organisation," Mourinho added."Then in the second half, especially Herrera, Carrick and Pogba, they increased the tempo. They started pressing higher.
"I thought Ander brought the team to different levels of intensity and pressing. Then we started recovering balls and being dangerous."United have been paired with West Ham in the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup.
I need my haters, says Real Madrid superstar Ronaldo
Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo has shrugged off jeers from his own supporters, reiterating that criticism only inspires him to get the best out of himself.
The Portugal international has endured a difficult start to the 2016-17 campaign and was recently booed by Real fans after failing to find the net in a 2-1 LaLiga win over Athletic Bilbao.
Nevertheless, Ronaldo remains unperturbed and feels he would not have been as successful without his haters."You have to use negative people and experiences to motivate you," Ronaldo told Coach Magazine."I actually need my haters, they have helped me achieve all I have achieved."
The 31-year-old drew inspiration from illustrious compatriots such as Luis Figo and Rui Costa during his younger years, but he has stressed his own desire to improve has helped him more than anything else.
"When I was younger I looked at Portuguese players like Figo and Rui Costa, and saw how they were performing on the biggest stage – and I knew I wanted to reach that level," he added.
"But my biggest inspiration has always been myself; nobody puts bigger demands on me than me."I said I admired Figo and Rui Costa, but I never wanted to emulate anybody – I have just always focused on being the best me I can.
"I have been the biggest influence on my own career."
Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo has shrugged off jeers from his own supporters, reiterating that criticism only inspires him to get the best out of himself.
The Portugal international has endured a difficult start to the 2016-17 campaign and was recently booed by Real fans after failing to find the net in a 2-1 LaLiga win over Athletic Bilbao.
Nevertheless, Ronaldo remains unperturbed and feels he would not have been as successful without his haters."You have to use negative people and experiences to motivate you," Ronaldo told Coach Magazine."I actually need my haters, they have helped me achieve all I have achieved."
The 31-year-old drew inspiration from illustrious compatriots such as Luis Figo and Rui Costa during his younger years, but he has stressed his own desire to improve has helped him more than anything else.
"When I was younger I looked at Portuguese players like Figo and Rui Costa, and saw how they were performing on the biggest stage – and I knew I wanted to reach that level," he added.
"But my biggest inspiration has always been myself; nobody puts bigger demands on me than me."I said I admired Figo and Rui Costa, but I never wanted to emulate anybody – I have just always focused on being the best me I can.
"I have been the biggest influence on my own career."
Xavi: Rooney too good for MLS or China
Former Barcelona midfielder Xavi believes it is too soon for Wayne Rooney to be considering a move to America or China, with it important that he maximises the peak years of his playing career in ‘one of Europe’s top leagues’.
Reports continue to suggest that the Manchester United skipper’s days at Old Trafford are numbered, with Jose Mourinho having taken him out of the firing line to take up a regular role on the bench.
Lucrative offers from the wider footballing world have been mooted, with the respective paths to the US and Far East well-trodden by high-profile European performers in recent years.
Xavi is among those to have spread his wings before calling it a day, with the World Cup winner currently on the books at Qatari side Al Sadd after bringing a glittering career at Camp Nou to a close.
He is, however, of the opinion that Rooney – at 31 years of age – still has a couple of years left him at the very top of the game, with it up to United to decide whether he spends those in England or at a continental rival.Xavi told Goal: “With all respect to The MLS, China, and other leagues, Wayne Rooney is not ready for that yet. In two or three seasons maybe, but at his age it is not the time.
“A player of his ability at his age needs to be playing in one of Europe's top leagues. “I still think he has a lot to offer Manchester United but if either him or the club decide not to continue that relationship, I know he would offer something to all the top clubs in Europe.”
Part of the problem for Rooney is that he is no longer viewed as the buccaneering frontman of his pomp, with managers at club and international level looking to shoehorn him into a deep-lying role.
Adjusting his game to meet the demands of a positional change will take time, but Xavi is convinced that an icon of the modern era will remain a useful asset to anyone willing to offer him a platform on which to perform.He added: “Rooney has always played with so much energy and he may need to adjust his role and play a little deeper, but his quality is still there to see.
“As you get older there are other things you need to accept like you can't play three games in a week or 50 games a season, but if you are willing to adapt you can still play at the highest level. “Wayne Rooney has been one of the best players in Europe over the last ten years - and that has not changed overnight - he still has a lot to offer."
Former Barcelona midfielder Xavi believes it is too soon for Wayne Rooney to be considering a move to America or China, with it important that he maximises the peak years of his playing career in ‘one of Europe’s top leagues’.
Reports continue to suggest that the Manchester United skipper’s days at Old Trafford are numbered, with Jose Mourinho having taken him out of the firing line to take up a regular role on the bench.
Lucrative offers from the wider footballing world have been mooted, with the respective paths to the US and Far East well-trodden by high-profile European performers in recent years.
Xavi is among those to have spread his wings before calling it a day, with the World Cup winner currently on the books at Qatari side Al Sadd after bringing a glittering career at Camp Nou to a close.
He is, however, of the opinion that Rooney – at 31 years of age – still has a couple of years left him at the very top of the game, with it up to United to decide whether he spends those in England or at a continental rival.Xavi told Goal: “With all respect to The MLS, China, and other leagues, Wayne Rooney is not ready for that yet. In two or three seasons maybe, but at his age it is not the time.
“A player of his ability at his age needs to be playing in one of Europe's top leagues. “I still think he has a lot to offer Manchester United but if either him or the club decide not to continue that relationship, I know he would offer something to all the top clubs in Europe.”
Part of the problem for Rooney is that he is no longer viewed as the buccaneering frontman of his pomp, with managers at club and international level looking to shoehorn him into a deep-lying role.
Adjusting his game to meet the demands of a positional change will take time, but Xavi is convinced that an icon of the modern era will remain a useful asset to anyone willing to offer him a platform on which to perform.He added: “Rooney has always played with so much energy and he may need to adjust his role and play a little deeper, but his quality is still there to see.
“As you get older there are other things you need to accept like you can't play three games in a week or 50 games a season, but if you are willing to adapt you can still play at the highest level. “Wayne Rooney has been one of the best players in Europe over the last ten years - and that has not changed overnight - he still has a lot to offer."
Inter coach De Boer insists Gabigol's time will come
Inter coach Frank de Boer has told Gabriel "Gabigol" Barbosa to remain patient and has stressed that the Brazilian forward's time will come.
The 20-year-old joined Inter from Santos during the close-season, snubbing a move to Juventus in favour of the San Siro side, but has been struggling to secure regular first-team action.Gabigol has made just one competitive appearance for Inter since his transfer, featuring for 16 minutes in the 1-1 draw with Bologna on September 25.
The forward once more remained on the bench for Wednesday's 2-1 win over Torino, but De Boer is adamant that he will give the Brazilian the chance to prove his worth when the time is right.
The forward once more remained on the bench for Wednesday's 2-1 win over Torino, but De Boer is adamant that he will give the Brazilian the chance to prove his worth when the time is right.
"Gabigol's chance will come," De Boer told reporters."Everything in due course. We are going through a tough run, but his time will come."Wednesday's win courtesy of a Mauro Icardi double saw Inter end a four-game winless streak in Serie A and climb to 10th with 14 points from 10 games.
Inter coach Frank de Boer has told Gabriel "Gabigol" Barbosa to remain patient and has stressed that the Brazilian forward's time will come.
The 20-year-old joined Inter from Santos during the close-season, snubbing a move to Juventus in favour of the San Siro side, but has been struggling to secure regular first-team action.Gabigol has made just one competitive appearance for Inter since his transfer, featuring for 16 minutes in the 1-1 draw with Bologna on September 25.
The forward once more remained on the bench for Wednesday's 2-1 win over Torino, but De Boer is adamant that he will give the Brazilian the chance to prove his worth when the time is right.
The forward once more remained on the bench for Wednesday's 2-1 win over Torino, but De Boer is adamant that he will give the Brazilian the chance to prove his worth when the time is right.
"Gabigol's chance will come," De Boer told reporters."Everything in due course. We are going through a tough run, but his time will come."Wednesday's win courtesy of a Mauro Icardi double saw Inter end a four-game winless streak in Serie A and climb to 10th with 14 points from 10 games.
Ronaldo reveals toughest defender he has faced
Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed the toughest defender he has ever faced, claiming former Chelsea star Ashley Cole is the one player who always gave him a rough time.
The Portugal captain has faced plenty of high-profile stoppers since making his professional debut at Sporting, but named Cole as the most stubborn."Over the years I had some great battles with Ashley Cole, he does not give you a second to breathe," Ronaldo told Coach Magazine.
"He was such a tenacious player when he was at his peak, quick, tough in the tackle. You knew it would never be an easy game."One defender who has been battling alongside Ronaldo rather than against him is Pepe, and the forward has nothing but praise for his club and national team-mate.
"Pepe is the team-mate I would want next to me in a war," he continued. "Not only is he a fantastic defender, but he leaves nothing on the field. He gives everything."
Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed the toughest defender he has ever faced, claiming former Chelsea star Ashley Cole is the one player who always gave him a rough time.
The Portugal captain has faced plenty of high-profile stoppers since making his professional debut at Sporting, but named Cole as the most stubborn."Over the years I had some great battles with Ashley Cole, he does not give you a second to breathe," Ronaldo told Coach Magazine.
"He was such a tenacious player when he was at his peak, quick, tough in the tackle. You knew it would never be an easy game."One defender who has been battling alongside Ronaldo rather than against him is Pepe, and the forward has nothing but praise for his club and national team-mate.
"Pepe is the team-mate I would want next to me in a war," he continued. "Not only is he a fantastic defender, but he leaves nothing on the field. He gives everything."
Bayern: Lewandowski renewal talks are 'looking good'
Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge is optimistic Robert Lewandowski will sign a new and improved deal with the Bundesliga champions.
The Poland international's existing deal runs until June 2019, but Bayern are believed to be keen to hold on to the prolific attacker for an additional two years and reward him for his fine performances since joining the club from Borussia Dortmund in 2014.
Lewandowski's agent Maik Barthel insisted this week there is no agreement yet, but Bayern seem confident a deal will be struck sooner rather than later."Things are looking good," Rummenigge told Sport Bild when questioned about negotiations with Lewandowski.
"Talks have been ongoing for a number of days and we have gotten off to a good start. And what goes on for a while usually results in something good...
"When we reach an agreement with Lewandowski, we will announce it the day after. We will not be making a spectacle out of it."Lewandowski, 28, has netted 10 goals in 13 appearances in all competitions for Bayern this term.
Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge is optimistic Robert Lewandowski will sign a new and improved deal with the Bundesliga champions.
The Poland international's existing deal runs until June 2019, but Bayern are believed to be keen to hold on to the prolific attacker for an additional two years and reward him for his fine performances since joining the club from Borussia Dortmund in 2014.
Lewandowski's agent Maik Barthel insisted this week there is no agreement yet, but Bayern seem confident a deal will be struck sooner rather than later."Things are looking good," Rummenigge told Sport Bild when questioned about negotiations with Lewandowski.
"Talks have been ongoing for a number of days and we have gotten off to a good start. And what goes on for a while usually results in something good...
"When we reach an agreement with Lewandowski, we will announce it the day after. We will not be making a spectacle out of it."Lewandowski, 28, has netted 10 goals in 13 appearances in all competitions for Bayern this term.
'It's time to step up' - Shaw eager to earn Mourinho's trust at Man Utd
Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw is determined to prove his worth to manager Jose Mourinho as he looks to cement his spot in the starting XI.
Shaw has endured plenty of highs and lows following his move from Southampton to United in 2014, evident by his indifferent start to life under Mourinho this season.
Injuries have hampered Shaw at Old Trafford but the 21-year-old England international looked set to make the position his own after impressing in pre-season until his mistake in the 3-1 loss to Watford in September, drawing public criticism from Mourinho.
After missing the 4-0 drubbing at Chelsea, despite being fit, Shaw returned to the line-up for United's 1-0 win over arch-rivals Manchester City in the EFL Cup on Wednesday due to an injury to Eric Bailly and the Englishman has vowed to fill the void and earn the trust of Mourinho.
After missing the 4-0 drubbing at Chelsea, despite being fit, Shaw returned to the line-up for United's 1-0 win over arch-rivals Manchester City in the EFL Cup on Wednesday due to an injury to Eric Bailly and the Englishman has vowed to fill the void and earn the trust of Mourinho.
"It's normal you're frustrated on Sunday because I would have loved to play in that game [against Chelsea] but it obviously wasn't meant to be and at the end of the day it is the manager's decision," said Shaw."Obviously with the injury with Eric now it might be my time to step up and show the manager what I can do and that he can trust me.
"The first half [against City] wasn't the best of mine. I thought I did good but on some of the crosses I wasn't maybe getting tight enough, but he [Jesus Navas] is a very quick player and it was quite tough.
"But I came out in the second half and I felt much better. I was closing him sharply, we made sure he got no crosses in and I felt really good. Hopefully I play on Saturday and get another 90 minutes and a good result with that."Shaw and United welcome Burnley to Old Trafford on Saturday, seeking to end a three-game winless streak in the Premier League.
Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw is determined to prove his worth to manager Jose Mourinho as he looks to cement his spot in the starting XI.
Shaw has endured plenty of highs and lows following his move from Southampton to United in 2014, evident by his indifferent start to life under Mourinho this season.
Injuries have hampered Shaw at Old Trafford but the 21-year-old England international looked set to make the position his own after impressing in pre-season until his mistake in the 3-1 loss to Watford in September, drawing public criticism from Mourinho.
After missing the 4-0 drubbing at Chelsea, despite being fit, Shaw returned to the line-up for United's 1-0 win over arch-rivals Manchester City in the EFL Cup on Wednesday due to an injury to Eric Bailly and the Englishman has vowed to fill the void and earn the trust of Mourinho.
After missing the 4-0 drubbing at Chelsea, despite being fit, Shaw returned to the line-up for United's 1-0 win over arch-rivals Manchester City in the EFL Cup on Wednesday due to an injury to Eric Bailly and the Englishman has vowed to fill the void and earn the trust of Mourinho.
"It's normal you're frustrated on Sunday because I would have loved to play in that game [against Chelsea] but it obviously wasn't meant to be and at the end of the day it is the manager's decision," said Shaw."Obviously with the injury with Eric now it might be my time to step up and show the manager what I can do and that he can trust me.
"The first half [against City] wasn't the best of mine. I thought I did good but on some of the crosses I wasn't maybe getting tight enough, but he [Jesus Navas] is a very quick player and it was quite tough.
"But I came out in the second half and I felt much better. I was closing him sharply, we made sure he got no crosses in and I felt really good. Hopefully I play on Saturday and get another 90 minutes and a good result with that."Shaw and United welcome Burnley to Old Trafford on Saturday, seeking to end a three-game winless streak in the Premier League.
Mourinho could have a plan for Mkhitaryan at Man Utd, says Keown
Henrikh Mkhitaryan was absent from the Manchester United teamsheet once again in midweek, with the Red Devils’ summer signing from Borussia Dortmund having become something of a forgotten man.
To say the Armenian has been used sparingly by Jose Mourinho thus far would be putting it mildly, with the 27-year-old having been frozen out of the picture since seeing his first start for the club ended by a half-time substitution back in September.
That outing was against Manchester City, the same opponents United lined up against on Wednesday, with many expecting the EFL Cup derby clash to provide Mkhitaryan with the perfect platform on which to reacquaint himself with the Old Trafford faithful.He was, however, overlooked once more – failing to even make the matchday squad – leading many to question why such a substantial fee, after many months of careful tracking, would be splashed out on a peripheral figure.
Former England international and three-time Premier League winner Martin Keown admits to being as baffled as anybody by the ongoing snub, but does wonder whether Mkhitaryan’s disappearing act can be explained by a much grander plan.
“It's a big mystery. It is odd when you spend so much money on a player and then don't use them,” he wrote in his ‘Tackle Keown’ column for the Daily Mail.“Jose Mourinho could have a plan for Mkhitaryan - he could be keeping him back to work on his power and fitness and give him more awareness of what lies ahead.
“He may also feel that the player is not quite ready and might not trust him yet. Don't forget the manager has been under pressure in recent weeks.“The problem is that when you bring in a player of that calibre, you are failing that player if you don't play them. By signing them, you show that commitment that you want the player there and that they are part of a project.
“It's not the first time big players have been brought in and struggled - Angel di Maria was the most expensive mistake. He had tried and tested ability but United couldn't get the best out of him."
Henrikh Mkhitaryan was absent from the Manchester United teamsheet once again in midweek, with the Red Devils’ summer signing from Borussia Dortmund having become something of a forgotten man.
To say the Armenian has been used sparingly by Jose Mourinho thus far would be putting it mildly, with the 27-year-old having been frozen out of the picture since seeing his first start for the club ended by a half-time substitution back in September.
That outing was against Manchester City, the same opponents United lined up against on Wednesday, with many expecting the EFL Cup derby clash to provide Mkhitaryan with the perfect platform on which to reacquaint himself with the Old Trafford faithful.He was, however, overlooked once more – failing to even make the matchday squad – leading many to question why such a substantial fee, after many months of careful tracking, would be splashed out on a peripheral figure.
Former England international and three-time Premier League winner Martin Keown admits to being as baffled as anybody by the ongoing snub, but does wonder whether Mkhitaryan’s disappearing act can be explained by a much grander plan.
“It's a big mystery. It is odd when you spend so much money on a player and then don't use them,” he wrote in his ‘Tackle Keown’ column for the Daily Mail.“Jose Mourinho could have a plan for Mkhitaryan - he could be keeping him back to work on his power and fitness and give him more awareness of what lies ahead.
“He may also feel that the player is not quite ready and might not trust him yet. Don't forget the manager has been under pressure in recent weeks.“The problem is that when you bring in a player of that calibre, you are failing that player if you don't play them. By signing them, you show that commitment that you want the player there and that they are part of a project.
“It's not the first time big players have been brought in and struggled - Angel di Maria was the most expensive mistake. He had tried and tested ability but United couldn't get the best out of him."
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Arsenal forward Lucas Perez ruled out for six weeks
Arsenal striker Lucas Perez looks set to be on the sidelines for six weeks after sustaining an ankle ligament injury during Tuesday's EFL Cup game against Reading.
The Spanish forward started in the 2-0 cup win over Jaap Staam's side but was substituted on 72 minutes when Danzell Gravenberch clattered into the 28-year-old with a strong tackle.
Perez, who scored his first and only two goals in the EFL Cup third round match at Nottingham Forest, recently notched a pair of assists for Mesut Ozil in the win over Ludogorets and was urged by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger to build on his encouraging start.
However, the former Deportivo forward is expected to miss crucial November fixtures against the likes of Tottenham, Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain.
France striker Olivier Giroud returned from injury on Tuesday and will be part of the squad which travels to Sunderland for Saturday's game at the Stadium of Light.
Arsenal striker Lucas Perez looks set to be on the sidelines for six weeks after sustaining an ankle ligament injury during Tuesday's EFL Cup game against Reading.
The Spanish forward started in the 2-0 cup win over Jaap Staam's side but was substituted on 72 minutes when Danzell Gravenberch clattered into the 28-year-old with a strong tackle.
Perez, who scored his first and only two goals in the EFL Cup third round match at Nottingham Forest, recently notched a pair of assists for Mesut Ozil in the win over Ludogorets and was urged by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger to build on his encouraging start.
However, the former Deportivo forward is expected to miss crucial November fixtures against the likes of Tottenham, Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain.
France striker Olivier Giroud returned from injury on Tuesday and will be part of the squad which travels to Sunderland for Saturday's game at the Stadium of Light.
Mourinho can match Guardiola, insists Sir Alex Ferguson
Sir Alex Ferguson says Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho can rival Pep Guardiola, even though he rates Manchester City as Premier League title favourites.
United defeated rivals City 1-0 in the EFL Cup on Wednesday, although they already trail their rivals by six points in the Premier League and lost at home to them in the top-flight last month.
Former Old Trafford boss Ferguson, who has said he rates City "as favourites from five potential candidates" in the title race, believes Guardiola cannot be questioned despite his side's six-match winless run.
But he is confident Mourinho has the skillset to challenge the Catalan throughout his spell in England, despite making a mixed start to his United career having been sacked by Chelsea last season."Guardiola's skills are beyond debate, [Antonio] Conte is getting Chelsea on track, but Mourinho can also rival Guardiola," Ferguson said to Kicker.
"He has won the Champions League with two different clubs and titles in three different countries."The rivalry and the experience of Guardiola and Mourinho make for an exciting competition."
Even though he admires the City manager, Ferguson feels United's rivals performed very poorly in their 4-0 Champions League defeat to Barcelona and thinks Guardiola missed a great opportunity to defeat his former club.The United legend warned City they are far from certain of making the knockout stages following the defeat.
Ferguson said: "I was a bit disappointed with Manchester City because Barcelona were not overwhelming in their 4-0 win."Sure, whenever Lionel Messi sees a chance he converts it, but the overall system of play wasn't outstanding. City missed a good opportunity there."Because Monchengladbach, even without several starters, put in a convincing performance at Celtic and got a victory they really deserved."City still have a big job to reach the knockout stages."
Sir Alex Ferguson says Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho can rival Pep Guardiola, even though he rates Manchester City as Premier League title favourites.
United defeated rivals City 1-0 in the EFL Cup on Wednesday, although they already trail their rivals by six points in the Premier League and lost at home to them in the top-flight last month.
Former Old Trafford boss Ferguson, who has said he rates City "as favourites from five potential candidates" in the title race, believes Guardiola cannot be questioned despite his side's six-match winless run.
But he is confident Mourinho has the skillset to challenge the Catalan throughout his spell in England, despite making a mixed start to his United career having been sacked by Chelsea last season."Guardiola's skills are beyond debate, [Antonio] Conte is getting Chelsea on track, but Mourinho can also rival Guardiola," Ferguson said to Kicker.
"He has won the Champions League with two different clubs and titles in three different countries."The rivalry and the experience of Guardiola and Mourinho make for an exciting competition."
Even though he admires the City manager, Ferguson feels United's rivals performed very poorly in their 4-0 Champions League defeat to Barcelona and thinks Guardiola missed a great opportunity to defeat his former club.The United legend warned City they are far from certain of making the knockout stages following the defeat.
Ferguson said: "I was a bit disappointed with Manchester City because Barcelona were not overwhelming in their 4-0 win."Sure, whenever Lionel Messi sees a chance he converts it, but the overall system of play wasn't outstanding. City missed a good opportunity there."Because Monchengladbach, even without several starters, put in a convincing performance at Celtic and got a victory they really deserved."City still have a big job to reach the knockout stages."
Zidane was behind one of my best seasons, says Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo says Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane was the catalyst for one of the best seasons of his career in 2015-16.
Zidane replaced the sacked Rafael Benitez at the Santiago Bernabeu in January and led the club to their 11th Champions League trophy. Ronaldo ended last season with 51 goals – including 16 in the Champions League – and went on to win Euro 2016 with Portugal.
The forward is now the odds-on favourite to win the Ballon d'Or having been included in the 30-man shortlist for the award and he credits Zidane for much of that, hailing his ability to boost the squad's morale within a short space of time.
Asked who had been the best boss when it came to lifting the dressing room, Ronaldo told Coach Magazine: "Zinedine Zidane was a perfect example of that last season. "We had not started well, but then he arrived and was the catalyst for one of my best ever seasons.
"We went on a great run in LaLiga, won the Champions League, and then I won the European championships with Portugal. "It was a great season for me and Real Madrid and the right coach can be that inspiration."
Ronaldo also discussed some of his other coaches, describing former Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson as having the biggest effect on him and highlighting present Old Trafford manager Jose Mourinho for his deep thinking.He continued: "I do see Sir Alex Ferguson as a father figure.
"All my coaches have been important, but when I arrived at Real Madrid I was a man, when I arrived at Manchester United I was a boy. "All of a sudden you are at one of the biggest clubs in the world and at that time I needed somebody like Sir Alex.
"I have played for so many great coaches, but Jose Mourinho was a big thinker analytically, he went into everything in great detail."Asked which person had been the biggest influence on his career, Ronaldo replied: "I was."
Cristiano Ronaldo says Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane was the catalyst for one of the best seasons of his career in 2015-16.
Zidane replaced the sacked Rafael Benitez at the Santiago Bernabeu in January and led the club to their 11th Champions League trophy. Ronaldo ended last season with 51 goals – including 16 in the Champions League – and went on to win Euro 2016 with Portugal.
The forward is now the odds-on favourite to win the Ballon d'Or having been included in the 30-man shortlist for the award and he credits Zidane for much of that, hailing his ability to boost the squad's morale within a short space of time.
Asked who had been the best boss when it came to lifting the dressing room, Ronaldo told Coach Magazine: "Zinedine Zidane was a perfect example of that last season. "We had not started well, but then he arrived and was the catalyst for one of my best ever seasons.
"We went on a great run in LaLiga, won the Champions League, and then I won the European championships with Portugal. "It was a great season for me and Real Madrid and the right coach can be that inspiration."
Ronaldo also discussed some of his other coaches, describing former Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson as having the biggest effect on him and highlighting present Old Trafford manager Jose Mourinho for his deep thinking.He continued: "I do see Sir Alex Ferguson as a father figure.
"All my coaches have been important, but when I arrived at Real Madrid I was a man, when I arrived at Manchester United I was a boy. "All of a sudden you are at one of the biggest clubs in the world and at that time I needed somebody like Sir Alex.
"I have played for so many great coaches, but Jose Mourinho was a big thinker analytically, he went into everything in great detail."Asked which person had been the biggest influence on his career, Ronaldo replied: "I was."
Sir Alex: Leicester will go far in the Champions League
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Leicester City can make a deep run in the Champions League after their Premier League title success last season.
Claudio Ranieri's men shocked the world by winning the top-flight in 2015-16, but they already sit nine points off the pace after as many matches this time around.
In the Champions League, though, Leicester are on the brink of reaching the last 16 having taken maximum points from Group G games against Club Brugge, Porto and Copenhagen.
Sir Alex does not think that will be the end of Leicester's run in Europe's elite club competition and is tipping them to reach the latter stages, although he stopped short of saying they would go all the way.
"Their transfer policy was fantastic," former Manchester United boss Ferguson told Kicker about Leicester's title success."They got players with a hunger for success and a will to win, not overpriced players.
"They're a good example for other clubs - in the Championship as well, where teams like Barnsley and Huddersfield come from scratch now. It is possible!
"It will be difficult for Leicester in the league, but in the Champions League, after three wins in three games, I think they are capable of making a deeper run, although not winning the trophy."
Meanwhile, Sir Alex believes Tottenham - who finished third last season - are in with a strong chance of another high finish due to the presence of manager Mauricio Pochettino.He added: "For my money Mauricio Pochettino has fantastic potential. Spurs have a good mix of youth and experience. Top players like [Harry] Kane or [Eric] Dier were injured but they're still in a good position.
"I am disappointed that there are not more English or Scottish managers [at the top level], but at the end of the day, quality is the decisive factor. The overseas owners want success and the best."
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Leicester City can make a deep run in the Champions League after their Premier League title success last season.
Claudio Ranieri's men shocked the world by winning the top-flight in 2015-16, but they already sit nine points off the pace after as many matches this time around.
In the Champions League, though, Leicester are on the brink of reaching the last 16 having taken maximum points from Group G games against Club Brugge, Porto and Copenhagen.
Sir Alex does not think that will be the end of Leicester's run in Europe's elite club competition and is tipping them to reach the latter stages, although he stopped short of saying they would go all the way.
"Their transfer policy was fantastic," former Manchester United boss Ferguson told Kicker about Leicester's title success."They got players with a hunger for success and a will to win, not overpriced players.
"They're a good example for other clubs - in the Championship as well, where teams like Barnsley and Huddersfield come from scratch now. It is possible!
"It will be difficult for Leicester in the league, but in the Champions League, after three wins in three games, I think they are capable of making a deeper run, although not winning the trophy."
Meanwhile, Sir Alex believes Tottenham - who finished third last season - are in with a strong chance of another high finish due to the presence of manager Mauricio Pochettino.He added: "For my money Mauricio Pochettino has fantastic potential. Spurs have a good mix of youth and experience. Top players like [Harry] Kane or [Eric] Dier were injured but they're still in a good position.
"I am disappointed that there are not more English or Scottish managers [at the top level], but at the end of the day, quality is the decisive factor. The overseas owners want success and the best."
Dortmund need Reus - Aubameyang
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang believes Marco Reus' return from injury is crucial to kick-start Borussia Dortmund's season.The Germany international has been out since the end of the 2015-16 campaign with a groin injury that forced him to miss Euro 2016, but he returned to training last week.
And with Reus soon to be back on the pitch, Aubameyang has had words of encouragement for his team-mate, who he says has an important role in a Dortmund side struggling to keep pace with Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich."It's a good sign that he's back training again," the Gabon international told the league's official website. "We need Marco.
"I sent him a message not long ago, telling him to keep believing in himself. I also told him personally how important his return is for the whole team."Not just me, but the team, the club – everybody's standing behind him. We all hope he'll be back on the field soon."Dortmund lie sixth in the table with eight games played, trailing Bayern by six points at this early stage.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang believes Marco Reus' return from injury is crucial to kick-start Borussia Dortmund's season.The Germany international has been out since the end of the 2015-16 campaign with a groin injury that forced him to miss Euro 2016, but he returned to training last week.
And with Reus soon to be back on the pitch, Aubameyang has had words of encouragement for his team-mate, who he says has an important role in a Dortmund side struggling to keep pace with Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich."It's a good sign that he's back training again," the Gabon international told the league's official website. "We need Marco.
"I sent him a message not long ago, telling him to keep believing in himself. I also told him personally how important his return is for the whole team."Not just me, but the team, the club – everybody's standing behind him. We all hope he'll be back on the field soon."Dortmund lie sixth in the table with eight games played, trailing Bayern by six points at this early stage.
This Juan's for you - Mata and Man Utd deliver when Mourinho needs it most
There’s nothing like victory in a local derby to cure the ills of a football club, and Manchester United’s 1-0 EFL Cup win over Manchester City on Wednesday will produce quite the sigh of relief from Jose Mourinho.
The United manager was squarely under pressure heading into the clash at Old Trafford following a 4-0 hammering on his return to Chelsea at the weekend and a negative reaction to his tactics which led to the 0-0 draw with Liverpool six days prior. Add in his self-confessed issues with his current living arrangements in Manchester, and a clash between the city’s two giants could hardly have come at a worse time.
But United got through the game unscathed, progressing to the quarter-finals thanks to Juan Mata’s 54th-minute winner. The match will not go down in the annals as one of the classic Manchester derbies, but the result might just be remembered as one of the most desperately-needed victories in Mourinho’s managerial career.
The Portuguese is far from being on the verge of the sack, but taking charge of Manchester United means putting yourself in the firing line week after week, day after day. And had United gone out of the League Cup to Pep Guardiola’s City, Mourinho’s critics would have had a field day.
It looked an entirely possible scenario during a first half low on anything approaching quality. On a very wet surface, United often struggled to simply keep their feet as attack after attack broke down almost before they had even started.While Zlatan Ibrahimovic was the worst culprit in terms of losing possession through idle passages of play, he was by no means the only guilty party.
City had issues at times too, but they looked likely to be the more capable of finding a next gear. Thankfully for United fans, it was the home team who shot out of the blocks after the break in what turned out to be the match-winning period. And while on the whole this was one of Ibrahimovic’s worst performances in memory, he was to play a key role in Mata’s winner.
In allowing Nicolas Otamendi to make an ill-timed jump on his wrong side, the Swede made space for himself and, after neat footwork encouraged Pablo Maffeo to stand off him, he flicked a pass towards Ander Herrera. While the midfielder was bundled out of the picture by a retreating City defender, Mata was on hand to fire home. It was an accurate reflection of the first nine minutes of the second half, but was probably one goal more than the game as a spectacle had deserved up to that point.
United improved slightly from there, and on another night may have been left to rue missed chances for Paul Pogba, Marcus Rashford and a complete airshot by Ibrahimovic, but they held on with a little to spare in the final knockings.
Never having been one for quality over quantity Mourinho will not care one iota about the lack of aesthetics attached to this victory, only that it takes his side into the quarter-finals and, temporarily at least, puts a full stop on talk of United’s demise.
The four games against Liverpool, Fenerbahce, Chelsea and City in the last nine games were expected to provide a snapshot of where United are and what they can be this season. It is fair to say they are a mixed bag at the moment, but a loss in the derby would have painted their campaign in a far more unforgiving light.
“Mourinho’s Red and White Army,” sang the United faithful as the seconds ticked down, and the manager will be delighted with how his side battled for him when he needed it most.Tonight, Manchester belongs to United… even if Mourinho still has a fair amount of adapting to do.
