Barclays Premier League Fixture 2017.01.04
Barclays Premier League Fixture 2017.01.04
Tottenham Vs Chelsea
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Spanish Copa Del Rey 1st Leg Fixtures 2017.01.04
Spanish Copa Del Rey 1st Leg Fixtures 2017.01.04
Alcoron Vs Cordoba
Real Sociedad Vs Villareal
Real Madrid Vs Sevilla
Alcoron Vs Cordoba
Real Sociedad Vs Villareal
Real Madrid Vs Sevilla
Tottenham 2-0 Chelsea: Alli double ruins Blues' hopes of making history
Dele Alli continued his scintillating form in front of goal by heading a brace to give Tottenham a stirring 2-0 derby victory and halt Chelsea's record-equalling Premier League winning run of 13 matches.
Alli scored twice for the third Spurs game in succession, converting Christian Eriksen crosses either side of half-time as Antonio Conte's league leaders tasted defeat for the first time since September.Tottenham are up to third place, above Manchester City on goal difference, and now within seven points of Conte's men, who lead Liverpool by five.
Mauricio Pochettino's side are enjoying a purple patch of their own, having won five from five since losing at Manchester United on December 11 and scoring 15 times in the process.
Chelsea's rampant march had previously been tested as they fell behind to Spurs at Stamford Bridge and City at the Etihad Stadium, but the excellent Alli ensured there would be no respite on this occasion.
Tottenham began with menacing intensity but Eden Hazard enjoyed the first clear opening for the leaders in the fifth minute, only to scuff wide from Nemanja Matic's ball over the top.
Mousa Dembele strode through a succession of Chelsea challenges before his chipped pass ran a shade too far for Harry Kane, while Eriksen was afforded a couple of set-piece opportunities as Spurs increased the pressure.
Pedro – back in the Chelsea XI for Willian following suspension despite the latter's brace against Stoke City – was booked for bringing down Danny Rose and found himself embroiled in a heated exchange of views with Diego Costa after a counter-attack broke down.
Eriksen flashed a dipping drive just past the post in the 23rd minute and Costa blazed over from the edge of the box 10 minutes before half-time.
Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois parried Eric Dier's back-post header after Gary Cahill was cautioned for hauling back Eriksen and the Denmark international rounded off a highly impressive first period by setting up the opener in stoppage time.He was given room to float an impeccable cross towards Alli, who timed his run to leap and guide a header into the top right corner.
Spurs goalkeeper Hugo Lloris was seldom involved before the break but got down with a firm hand to keep out Costa two minutes after the restart, while Hazard squirted a header wide after the hosts failed to deal with Marcos Alonso's deep cross.Once more, Alli emphatically showed him how it was done in the 54th minute.Eriksen again took on the role of provider and the England star found space in between Victor Moses and Cesar Azpilicueta to beat Courtois at the far post.
Alli's clever movement and relentless running meant the evening never progressed beyond unpleasant for Chelsea's much-vaunted defence, although he was unable to extend his hot streak to eight goals in four games by claiming the match ball.
Tottenham comfortably closed out a victory to serve emphatic notice of their own title ambitions against the opponents who so relished ending them last time around.
Dele Alli continued his scintillating form in front of goal by heading a brace to give Tottenham a stirring 2-0 derby victory and halt Chelsea's record-equalling Premier League winning run of 13 matches.
Alli scored twice for the third Spurs game in succession, converting Christian Eriksen crosses either side of half-time as Antonio Conte's league leaders tasted defeat for the first time since September.Tottenham are up to third place, above Manchester City on goal difference, and now within seven points of Conte's men, who lead Liverpool by five.
Mauricio Pochettino's side are enjoying a purple patch of their own, having won five from five since losing at Manchester United on December 11 and scoring 15 times in the process.
Chelsea's rampant march had previously been tested as they fell behind to Spurs at Stamford Bridge and City at the Etihad Stadium, but the excellent Alli ensured there would be no respite on this occasion.
Tottenham began with menacing intensity but Eden Hazard enjoyed the first clear opening for the leaders in the fifth minute, only to scuff wide from Nemanja Matic's ball over the top.
Mousa Dembele strode through a succession of Chelsea challenges before his chipped pass ran a shade too far for Harry Kane, while Eriksen was afforded a couple of set-piece opportunities as Spurs increased the pressure.
Pedro – back in the Chelsea XI for Willian following suspension despite the latter's brace against Stoke City – was booked for bringing down Danny Rose and found himself embroiled in a heated exchange of views with Diego Costa after a counter-attack broke down.
Eriksen flashed a dipping drive just past the post in the 23rd minute and Costa blazed over from the edge of the box 10 minutes before half-time.
Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois parried Eric Dier's back-post header after Gary Cahill was cautioned for hauling back Eriksen and the Denmark international rounded off a highly impressive first period by setting up the opener in stoppage time.He was given room to float an impeccable cross towards Alli, who timed his run to leap and guide a header into the top right corner.
Spurs goalkeeper Hugo Lloris was seldom involved before the break but got down with a firm hand to keep out Costa two minutes after the restart, while Hazard squirted a header wide after the hosts failed to deal with Marcos Alonso's deep cross.Once more, Alli emphatically showed him how it was done in the 54th minute.Eriksen again took on the role of provider and the England star found space in between Victor Moses and Cesar Azpilicueta to beat Courtois at the far post.
Alli's clever movement and relentless running meant the evening never progressed beyond unpleasant for Chelsea's much-vaunted defence, although he was unable to extend his hot streak to eight goals in four games by claiming the match ball.
Tottenham comfortably closed out a victory to serve emphatic notice of their own title ambitions against the opponents who so relished ending them last time around.
Chelsea fail to match Arsenal's win record
Chelsea have failed to match Arsenal's 14 game winning streak, falling one game short after losing to Spurs at White Hart Lane.Antonio Conte's side were on the verge of a record equalling run, having amassed 13 wins-in-a-row before Wednesday's 2-0 defeat to their London rivals.
Arsenal's run from February to August 2002 is the current best string of success, but as that spanned across two seasons, Chelsea's 2016-17 streak still stands as the joint longest single-season run.
The win streak is also the best in Chelsea's Premier League history, bettering their 11 back-to-back wins in 2009. Unusually, that run was under two different managers, with Guus Hiddink racking up five wins-in-a-row before being replaced by Carlo Ancelotti at Stamford Bridge.
Despite missing out on the achievement of matching Arsenal's 14 game winning-streak, Wednesday's game set a different record - becoming the first game to be played 50 times in the Premier League.
With 20 games gone in the season, Chelsea remain five points clear at the top of the Premier League table. Victory for Spurs sees them climb above Manchester City and Arsenal into third-place, seven points adrift of Conte's leaders.
Chelsea have failed to match Arsenal's 14 game winning streak, falling one game short after losing to Spurs at White Hart Lane.Antonio Conte's side were on the verge of a record equalling run, having amassed 13 wins-in-a-row before Wednesday's 2-0 defeat to their London rivals.
Arsenal's run from February to August 2002 is the current best string of success, but as that spanned across two seasons, Chelsea's 2016-17 streak still stands as the joint longest single-season run.
The win streak is also the best in Chelsea's Premier League history, bettering their 11 back-to-back wins in 2009. Unusually, that run was under two different managers, with Guus Hiddink racking up five wins-in-a-row before being replaced by Carlo Ancelotti at Stamford Bridge.
Despite missing out on the achievement of matching Arsenal's 14 game winning-streak, Wednesday's game set a different record - becoming the first game to be played 50 times in the Premier League.
With 20 games gone in the season, Chelsea remain five points clear at the top of the Premier League table. Victory for Spurs sees them climb above Manchester City and Arsenal into third-place, seven points adrift of Conte's leaders.
Real Madrid 3-0 Sevilla: Zidane's men breeze to Copa victory
Real Madrid celebrated the first anniversary of Zinedine Zidane's appointment in style, as James Rodriguez netted twice in a 3-0 Copa del Rey dismantling of Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Zidane has enjoyed a wonderful 12 months in charge of the European champions and his impact showed no sign of subsiding on Wednesday, with Sevilla on the end of a battering in what was predicted to be a tough Copa last-16 first leg for injury-ravaged Madrid.
The rested Cristiano Ronaldo along with the injured Gareth Bale and Sergio Ramos were just three of those missing, but their absence was not felt as Madrid ran Sevilla ragged right from the beginning – James breaking the deadlock early on with a fine goal which encapsulated the hosts' quick start.
The match settled down but Zidane's men remained in complete control and added a second through Raphael Varane, before James' doubled his tally by converting a dubious penalty.Madrid appeared to ease off slightly in the second half, though Sevilla looked no more threatening as the home side kept things tight and disciplined at the back.
In the end, Madrid had no difficulty cruising to victory and taking their unbeaten run to 38 matches in all competitions, but Sevilla will not have to wait long for revenge as the two sides go head-to-head in the second leg and in La Liga over the next 11 days.Sevilla looked to be in for a gruelling encounter right from the start and Madrid's intense pressing was crucial to their early goal.
Gabriel Mercado sold Steven N'Zonzi short and Casemiro was on him in a flash, prodding the ball into space for James to pounce before bending a crisp finish into the bottom-left corner from 20 yards.
Sergio Rico came to Sevilla's rescue just before the half-hour mark, palming Marcelo's thunderous volley away before Mercado cleared for a corner.But the set-piece brought Madrid's second, with Varane heading Toni Kroos' delivery beyond the helpless Rico.
Sevilla should have pulled one back shortly after, but Joaquin Correa was thwarted by Kiko Casilla when one on one and Vicente Iborra inexplicably sliced the rebound wide of an open goal.Vitolo was similarly culpable for shooting straight at Casilla when through on goal just before the break and Madrid took full advantage a few minutes later.
Luka Modric appeared to be pushed by James in the area and referee Mateu Lahoz controversially pointed to the spot, with the Colombian coolly dispatching the penalty.
Jorge Sampaoli introduced Pablo Sarabia for Ganso at half-time and the former Madrid youngster was involved almost straight away, feeding Correa into the area only for the Argentine to shoot just wide of the bottom-left corner.That was about as far as Sevilla's fightback went, though, as the hosts starved their visitors of opportunities.
Madrid crafted few chances of their own in the second period, with the LaLiga pacesetters seemingly happy to nullify their opponents.And Zidane's tactics worked, as they take a big lead into the return leg at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on January 12.
Real Madrid celebrated the first anniversary of Zinedine Zidane's appointment in style, as James Rodriguez netted twice in a 3-0 Copa del Rey dismantling of Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Zidane has enjoyed a wonderful 12 months in charge of the European champions and his impact showed no sign of subsiding on Wednesday, with Sevilla on the end of a battering in what was predicted to be a tough Copa last-16 first leg for injury-ravaged Madrid.
The rested Cristiano Ronaldo along with the injured Gareth Bale and Sergio Ramos were just three of those missing, but their absence was not felt as Madrid ran Sevilla ragged right from the beginning – James breaking the deadlock early on with a fine goal which encapsulated the hosts' quick start.
The match settled down but Zidane's men remained in complete control and added a second through Raphael Varane, before James' doubled his tally by converting a dubious penalty.Madrid appeared to ease off slightly in the second half, though Sevilla looked no more threatening as the home side kept things tight and disciplined at the back.
In the end, Madrid had no difficulty cruising to victory and taking their unbeaten run to 38 matches in all competitions, but Sevilla will not have to wait long for revenge as the two sides go head-to-head in the second leg and in La Liga over the next 11 days.Sevilla looked to be in for a gruelling encounter right from the start and Madrid's intense pressing was crucial to their early goal.
Gabriel Mercado sold Steven N'Zonzi short and Casemiro was on him in a flash, prodding the ball into space for James to pounce before bending a crisp finish into the bottom-left corner from 20 yards.
Sergio Rico came to Sevilla's rescue just before the half-hour mark, palming Marcelo's thunderous volley away before Mercado cleared for a corner.But the set-piece brought Madrid's second, with Varane heading Toni Kroos' delivery beyond the helpless Rico.
Sevilla should have pulled one back shortly after, but Joaquin Correa was thwarted by Kiko Casilla when one on one and Vicente Iborra inexplicably sliced the rebound wide of an open goal.Vitolo was similarly culpable for shooting straight at Casilla when through on goal just before the break and Madrid took full advantage a few minutes later.
Luka Modric appeared to be pushed by James in the area and referee Mateu Lahoz controversially pointed to the spot, with the Colombian coolly dispatching the penalty.
Jorge Sampaoli introduced Pablo Sarabia for Ganso at half-time and the former Madrid youngster was involved almost straight away, feeding Correa into the area only for the Argentine to shoot just wide of the bottom-left corner.That was about as far as Sevilla's fightback went, though, as the hosts starved their visitors of opportunities.
Madrid crafted few chances of their own in the second period, with the LaLiga pacesetters seemingly happy to nullify their opponents.And Zidane's tactics worked, as they take a big lead into the return leg at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on January 12.
'I'm staying' - Chelsea and PSG target James confirms he will remain at Real Madrid
James Rodriguez has ended speculation linking him with a move away from Real Madrid by confirming he will stay and fight for his place.Rumours had been circulating that the Colombia star was attracting the interest of both Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United after starting just four La Liga games in the first half of the season.
James fuelled speculation surrounding his future at Real after revealing last month that he had offers to leave and could not confirm whether he would definitely remain with Los Blancos.
But the 25-year-old, who played a starring role with two goals against Sevilla in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, now says he is committed to fighting for his place after talks with Zidane.
Speaking to beIN Sports after the match, James said: "All of us who are in the team always want to play."But I am fine. We all go through difficult times and now it's a new year and I have new desires in life. I am staying, I am staying."
James joined Real from Monaco in 2014 but his stock has fallen somewhat since arriving as one of the hottest properties in world football after that year's World Cup in Brazil.
Raphael Varane was also on target as a Cristiano Ronaldo-less Real downed Sevilla in the first leg of their Copa last-16 tie.
James Rodriguez has ended speculation linking him with a move away from Real Madrid by confirming he will stay and fight for his place.Rumours had been circulating that the Colombia star was attracting the interest of both Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United after starting just four La Liga games in the first half of the season.
James fuelled speculation surrounding his future at Real after revealing last month that he had offers to leave and could not confirm whether he would definitely remain with Los Blancos.
But the 25-year-old, who played a starring role with two goals against Sevilla in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, now says he is committed to fighting for his place after talks with Zidane.
Speaking to beIN Sports after the match, James said: "All of us who are in the team always want to play."But I am fine. We all go through difficult times and now it's a new year and I have new desires in life. I am staying, I am staying."
James joined Real from Monaco in 2014 but his stock has fallen somewhat since arriving as one of the hottest properties in world football after that year's World Cup in Brazil.
Raphael Varane was also on target as a Cristiano Ronaldo-less Real downed Sevilla in the first leg of their Copa last-16 tie.
Conte: We knew this could happen against Spurs
Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte urged his players to accept defeat to "a great team" after Tottenham ended the Premier League leaders' ambitions of a record-breaking 14th consecutive top-flight win in the same season.Dele Alli headed home a pair of Christian Eriksen crosses either side of half-time to give Spurs a deserved 2-0 victory at White Hart Lane.
Conte bemoaned the fact that Alli's second – his seventh in his past four outings to continue an impressive hot streak – came after Diego Costa and Eden Hazard had come close to levelling for Chelsea, but there were few other moments of encouragement for his side.
"We knew that this could happen before now," he told Sky Sports. "I think I saw a game with a good balance. They scored a goal at the end of the first half and then they scored the second goal in our best moment.
"It's a pity to stop this run but Tottenham is a good team, a really strong team and I think for sure they are one of the teams who can fight for the title until the end."They fought last season and for sure Tottenham can fight also this year.
"Two good teams with good intensity and good pressure tried to win the game. Tottenham scored in two strange moments [especially in] the second half when we missed two chances to equalise."
Asked whether his usually miserly defence should come under scrutiny for their failure to deal with Alli, Conte added: "I didn't see the [replay of] of the situation but, for sure, I saw a good cross and a good header. With the team we will see."My team, we are at the top of the table because we are working a lot and I think that from last season we improved a lot.
"But for sure this championship is very tough and for this reason it is important to work and continue to improve."It can happen, a defeat against Tottenham.
"Now it is important to restart. After 13 wins in a row it is difficult to accept a defeat but this is football and we must accept and remember our defeat arrived with a great team."
Chelsea head coach Antonio Conte urged his players to accept defeat to "a great team" after Tottenham ended the Premier League leaders' ambitions of a record-breaking 14th consecutive top-flight win in the same season.Dele Alli headed home a pair of Christian Eriksen crosses either side of half-time to give Spurs a deserved 2-0 victory at White Hart Lane.
Conte bemoaned the fact that Alli's second – his seventh in his past four outings to continue an impressive hot streak – came after Diego Costa and Eden Hazard had come close to levelling for Chelsea, but there were few other moments of encouragement for his side.
"We knew that this could happen before now," he told Sky Sports. "I think I saw a game with a good balance. They scored a goal at the end of the first half and then they scored the second goal in our best moment.
"It's a pity to stop this run but Tottenham is a good team, a really strong team and I think for sure they are one of the teams who can fight for the title until the end."They fought last season and for sure Tottenham can fight also this year.
"Two good teams with good intensity and good pressure tried to win the game. Tottenham scored in two strange moments [especially in] the second half when we missed two chances to equalise."
Asked whether his usually miserly defence should come under scrutiny for their failure to deal with Alli, Conte added: "I didn't see the [replay of] of the situation but, for sure, I saw a good cross and a good header. With the team we will see."My team, we are at the top of the table because we are working a lot and I think that from last season we improved a lot.
"But for sure this championship is very tough and for this reason it is important to work and continue to improve."It can happen, a defeat against Tottenham.
"Now it is important to restart. After 13 wins in a row it is difficult to accept a defeat but this is football and we must accept and remember our defeat arrived with a great team."
Mourinho: I have fallen in love with Manchester United
Jose Mourinho has claimed he has fallen in love with Manchester United because of the club's fans and their realistic attitude.
The 53-year-old replaced Louis van Gaal as the man in charge ahead of the 2016-17 campaign, but initially struggled to get United back on track after a disappointing season under the Dutchman.Nevertheless, United have been in sublime form in recent weeks and are in the race for a top-four finish after winning six Premier League games in a row.
"Well, the thing that made me immediately feel deeply about the club and the people, and the desire to work for the people, is the people," Mourinho told MUTV.
"The people are the typical Manchester United supporters, the ones that have unbelievable memories of the past, but know the realities of the moment. The ones who keep the expectations for the future but understand the road to arrive there and are always supporting the team, even in the bad moments we have had.
"That, for me, is the most significant thing because it is the thing that makes you fall in love with a new club. I think that is the thing that touched me more."United's fans are not the only reason behind Mourinho's happiness, however, as he is equally pleased with the players at his availability."I like my players very, very much," Mourinho added.
"Not just the players, but the combinations between the players as people."They are very good guys and I love to work with them. I love my group so I am really happy. And at the top of that is the challenge of bringing Manchester United to the space that it belongs. So I am really happy."
Capello backs Guardiola for Barcelona presidency
Pep Guardiola will return to Barcelona when he eventually leaves Manchester City, only this time as club president, predicts former England boss Fabio Capello.
The Italian's comment comes days after the Catalan coach suggested that his coaching days were already coming to an end, despite having been in charge of the Etihad club for just six months.
Capello, who was Guardiola's manager at Roma during the 2002-03 season, believes the remarks regarding his future were down to a potential return to Camp Nou, where Guardiola spent the vast majority of his playing and coaching days.
“Guardiola’s football is fundamentally always the same and if the opponents figure out counter-measures, he has to find an alternative," Capello told Sky Italy.
“In any case, I think if he made these statements, it is also because in my view he has the idea of becoming President of Barcelona.”
Guardiola led Manchester City to a 2-1 win over Burnley in their last Premier League outing, despite Fernandinho's first half red card. Win or bust: Spurs must prove title mettleHowever, the Catalan's dismissive interviews following the victory led to supporters questioning his attitude, shortly after the comments of his coaching future were aired.
"I will not be on the bench until I am 60 or 65 years old. I feel that the process of my goodbye has already started," the City boss told NBC Sports.
Pep Guardiola will return to Barcelona when he eventually leaves Manchester City, only this time as club president, predicts former England boss Fabio Capello.
The Italian's comment comes days after the Catalan coach suggested that his coaching days were already coming to an end, despite having been in charge of the Etihad club for just six months.
Capello, who was Guardiola's manager at Roma during the 2002-03 season, believes the remarks regarding his future were down to a potential return to Camp Nou, where Guardiola spent the vast majority of his playing and coaching days.
“Guardiola’s football is fundamentally always the same and if the opponents figure out counter-measures, he has to find an alternative," Capello told Sky Italy.
“In any case, I think if he made these statements, it is also because in my view he has the idea of becoming President of Barcelona.”
Guardiola led Manchester City to a 2-1 win over Burnley in their last Premier League outing, despite Fernandinho's first half red card. Win or bust: Spurs must prove title mettleHowever, the Catalan's dismissive interviews following the victory led to supporters questioning his attitude, shortly after the comments of his coaching future were aired.
"I will not be on the bench until I am 60 or 65 years old. I feel that the process of my goodbye has already started," the City boss told NBC Sports.
'Guardiola needs time but will do a fantastic job at Man City' - Ancelotti
Carlo Ancelotti is convinced that Pep Guardiola will do “a fantastic job” at Manchester City if given time in which to get things right.The Catalan coach arrived in English football during the summer of 2016, having forged a reputation as one of the best managers in the business during stints at Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
Silverware was secured on a regular basis at both Camp Nou and the Allianz Arena, with Guardiola working with some of the finest talent in world football.Success was expected to follow him to the Premier League, but a tough start to his reign has offered a rude awakening.
City currently sit fourth in the table, seven points adrift of leaders Chelsea and only one ahead of Arsenal – who are chasing down a top-four finish alongside Manchester United.
Guardiola’s side have dropped just three points in their last five outings, but performances have been doing little to inspire confidence.Ancelotti – the man who inherited the reins at Bayern last year – sympathises with his predecessor and believes the corner will be turned once a proven winner is fully adjusted to new surroundings.
He said at Bayern’s winter training camp in Doha: "I'm not surprised that Guardiola is being criticised."That's normal in our job when you don't win. When everything is going well, the praise goes to the team, but when you lose the coach is to blame.
"It's not easy for a trainer to get used to a new club and a new league."He simply needs time. In the end, I'm convinced he'll do a fantastic job at Manchester City, just like he did at Bayern."
Guardiola led Bayern to three successive Bundesliga titles during his time in Germany, along with two German Cup triumphs, Super Cup success and a Club World Cup win.Those honours were added to a long list of accolades picked up at Barcelona – including three La Liga titles and two Champions League crowns.
There are still three pieces of silverware up for grabs this season, with City looking to force their way back into the Premier League race while progressing through to the latter stages of the FA Cup and Champions League.
Carlo Ancelotti is convinced that Pep Guardiola will do “a fantastic job” at Manchester City if given time in which to get things right.The Catalan coach arrived in English football during the summer of 2016, having forged a reputation as one of the best managers in the business during stints at Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
Silverware was secured on a regular basis at both Camp Nou and the Allianz Arena, with Guardiola working with some of the finest talent in world football.Success was expected to follow him to the Premier League, but a tough start to his reign has offered a rude awakening.
City currently sit fourth in the table, seven points adrift of leaders Chelsea and only one ahead of Arsenal – who are chasing down a top-four finish alongside Manchester United.
Guardiola’s side have dropped just three points in their last five outings, but performances have been doing little to inspire confidence.Ancelotti – the man who inherited the reins at Bayern last year – sympathises with his predecessor and believes the corner will be turned once a proven winner is fully adjusted to new surroundings.
He said at Bayern’s winter training camp in Doha: "I'm not surprised that Guardiola is being criticised."That's normal in our job when you don't win. When everything is going well, the praise goes to the team, but when you lose the coach is to blame.
"It's not easy for a trainer to get used to a new club and a new league."He simply needs time. In the end, I'm convinced he'll do a fantastic job at Manchester City, just like he did at Bayern."
Guardiola led Bayern to three successive Bundesliga titles during his time in Germany, along with two German Cup triumphs, Super Cup success and a Club World Cup win.Those honours were added to a long list of accolades picked up at Barcelona – including three La Liga titles and two Champions League crowns.
There are still three pieces of silverware up for grabs this season, with City looking to force their way back into the Premier League race while progressing through to the latter stages of the FA Cup and Champions League.
Asking price for Depay too high for Nice, says president
Nice president Jean-Pierre Rivere says the club will not be making a move for Manchester United winger Memphis Depay, as he is “out of our financial reach”.
The Netherlands international has become a fringe figure at Old Trafford under Jose Mourinho, being restricted to just 20 minutes of Premier League football this season.
A forward who arrived in English football with a blossoming reputation has become something of a forgotten man and is actively looking for a fresh start during the January transfer window.
Various clubs have been linked with an approach for his services, with Everton said to be keen on keeping him in the Premier League.
Nice were also interested, with the ambitious French outfit looking to bolster a squad that currently sits top of Ligue 1.They have, however, been priced out of the market, with United looking to recoup as much of the £25 million they paid for Depay in the summer of 2015 as possible.
Rivere told RMC: "We looked at him, like a lot of clubs have, but it is extremely complicated."It is a situation that is out of our financial reach. You have a club that bought him for a certain amount, that wants to sell him.
"When we looked at Depay, it was in another way, which is not possible today."He was bought very expensively by Manchester United, they want to possibly sell him and we cannot compete in this sort of situation."Depay joined United from PSV on the back of a 2014-15 campaign which saw him win the league with the Eindhoven side and finish as the Eredivisie’s top scorer.
He struggled, however, to make much of an impact under fellow Dutchman Louis van Gaal and has made just eight appearances in all competitions this season – with the last of those coming in a Europa League clash with Feyenoord on 24 November.
Nice president Jean-Pierre Rivere says the club will not be making a move for Manchester United winger Memphis Depay, as he is “out of our financial reach”.
The Netherlands international has become a fringe figure at Old Trafford under Jose Mourinho, being restricted to just 20 minutes of Premier League football this season.
A forward who arrived in English football with a blossoming reputation has become something of a forgotten man and is actively looking for a fresh start during the January transfer window.
Various clubs have been linked with an approach for his services, with Everton said to be keen on keeping him in the Premier League.
Nice were also interested, with the ambitious French outfit looking to bolster a squad that currently sits top of Ligue 1.They have, however, been priced out of the market, with United looking to recoup as much of the £25 million they paid for Depay in the summer of 2015 as possible.
Rivere told RMC: "We looked at him, like a lot of clubs have, but it is extremely complicated."It is a situation that is out of our financial reach. You have a club that bought him for a certain amount, that wants to sell him.
"When we looked at Depay, it was in another way, which is not possible today."He was bought very expensively by Manchester United, they want to possibly sell him and we cannot compete in this sort of situation."Depay joined United from PSV on the back of a 2014-15 campaign which saw him win the league with the Eindhoven side and finish as the Eredivisie’s top scorer.
He struggled, however, to make much of an impact under fellow Dutchman Louis van Gaal and has made just eight appearances in all competitions this season – with the last of those coming in a Europa League clash with Feyenoord on 24 November.
Ancelotti: Muller still a key figure at Bayern
Carlo Ancelotti is adamant Thomas Muller remains a key figure at Bayern Munich and says the Germany international will get plenty of playing time in the months to come.
Muller has endured a difficult 2016-17 campaign, scoring just once in 13 Bundesliga appearances.The 27-year-old's struggles prompted comments from former Bayern star Lother Matthaus that he might struggle to win over Ancelotti after the winter break as he does not fit the Italian's style.
Nevertheless, Ancelotti has laughed off Matthaus' remarks and has ensured Muller he still has a role to play at the Allianz Arena.
"I have often said that Thomas Muller is a very intelligent player," Ancelotti was quoted as saying by TZ."He always finds the right place on the pitch, regardless of the position he plays."He has played a lot of games in the first half of the season and he will play a lot of games after the winter break."Nothing has changed for Thomas."
Carlo Ancelotti is adamant Thomas Muller remains a key figure at Bayern Munich and says the Germany international will get plenty of playing time in the months to come.
Muller has endured a difficult 2016-17 campaign, scoring just once in 13 Bundesliga appearances.The 27-year-old's struggles prompted comments from former Bayern star Lother Matthaus that he might struggle to win over Ancelotti after the winter break as he does not fit the Italian's style.
Nevertheless, Ancelotti has laughed off Matthaus' remarks and has ensured Muller he still has a role to play at the Allianz Arena.
"I have often said that Thomas Muller is a very intelligent player," Ancelotti was quoted as saying by TZ."He always finds the right place on the pitch, regardless of the position he plays."He has played a lot of games in the first half of the season and he will play a lot of games after the winter break."Nothing has changed for Thomas."
Chelsea nearing planning permission over Stamford Bridge redevelopment
Chelsea are set to be awarded planning permission to expand Stamford Bridge to become a 60,000 all-seater stadium.
Rather than move site, the Blues will expand Stamford Bridge over the course of a three-year programme that could see the team temporarily uprooted to Wembley.
Hammersmith and Fulham council are set to make a ruling on the proposals on January 11, with the club proposing dramatic alterations to their current facilities, which hold 41,600.
Buildings within the grounds of Stamford Bridge would be demolished to allow the expansion of the ground, while Chelsea have also proposed decking platforms over the District Line and Southern Mainline, which run close by the ground. Additionally, they will construct a club shop, museum and restaurant and café facilities.
Planners have recommended the proposals as they will allow the club to remain an iconic brand based within the Hammersmith and Fulham borough. Indeed, with dedicated tickets set to go to local residents, it is believed that the new ground would allow a younger generation of supporters to enjoy the team, whose average season ticket holder is aged 55.
Chelsea had previously looked at moving to Earls Court or Battersea Power Station, though both options were rejected. “Both were ruled out on policy grounds as the inclusion of a football ground was found not to be consistent with housing regeneration objectives identified for those areas,” planning documents state.
It is expected that any redevelopment will cost around £500 million and could be completed by the 2021-22 season, with the Blues hoping to secure the use of another stadium for the beginning of the 2018-19 campaign.
Chelsea have already started making inquiries as to the location of their temporary home, with Wembley thought to be their preferred option.
Chelsea are set to be awarded planning permission to expand Stamford Bridge to become a 60,000 all-seater stadium.
Rather than move site, the Blues will expand Stamford Bridge over the course of a three-year programme that could see the team temporarily uprooted to Wembley.
Hammersmith and Fulham council are set to make a ruling on the proposals on January 11, with the club proposing dramatic alterations to their current facilities, which hold 41,600.
Buildings within the grounds of Stamford Bridge would be demolished to allow the expansion of the ground, while Chelsea have also proposed decking platforms over the District Line and Southern Mainline, which run close by the ground. Additionally, they will construct a club shop, museum and restaurant and café facilities.
Planners have recommended the proposals as they will allow the club to remain an iconic brand based within the Hammersmith and Fulham borough. Indeed, with dedicated tickets set to go to local residents, it is believed that the new ground would allow a younger generation of supporters to enjoy the team, whose average season ticket holder is aged 55.
Chelsea had previously looked at moving to Earls Court or Battersea Power Station, though both options were rejected. “Both were ruled out on policy grounds as the inclusion of a football ground was found not to be consistent with housing regeneration objectives identified for those areas,” planning documents state.
It is expected that any redevelopment will cost around £500 million and could be completed by the 2021-22 season, with the Blues hoping to secure the use of another stadium for the beginning of the 2018-19 campaign.
Chelsea have already started making inquiries as to the location of their temporary home, with Wembley thought to be their preferred option.
'Defoe has what is most important - goals' - Bilic talks up West Ham target
Slaven Bilic remains undeterred in his pursuit of Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe despite West Ham having a reported £6 million bid rejected.
Only five teams have scored fewer than West Ham's return of 23 Premier League goals this season, with winger Michail Antonio shouldering much of the burden with eight goals.
Andy Carroll - who has spent most of the season injured - is the highest-scoring of their recognised strikers with just two goals, while Simone Zaza, Ashley Fletcher, Diafra Sakho and Jonathan Calleri have only two between them.
By contrast, former Hammers striker Defoe has been a rare positive for relegation-threatened Sunderland this term, scoring 11 of their 19 Premier League goals as they desperately look to fend off relegation.
And Bilic, who initially refused to speak about other clubs' players, lavished praise on the 34-year-old after seemingly confirming West Ham have made a move to bring him back to the club.
"It [news of the bid] was on television," Bilic told reporters. "But we're not going to discuss players that are not ours."The whole club is trying really hard to get some players in positions that we need. But I'm not going to talk here in public.
"He has the things that are most important in a football game and that's goals. Last season he was probably the main reason Sunderland stayed up and he has continued to play the same way this season."Each game he is not only scoring goals but creating chances and most of the chances he's converting into goals."
Bilic also confirmed reports that he had been keeping an eye on Brentford's 24-year-old striker Scott Hogan, who has 14 Championship goals to his name this term.
"He's a good player," he added. "I've watched him a few times. Again he is scoring goals, he's very sharp, very quick and a very good finisher."He does it in the Championship. But once again, Hogan is not on our roster."
West Ham's need for offensive reinforcements has been made even more urgent by speculation linking Zaza with a departure and Bilic has acknowledged the Italian is nearing the exit door."We wanted him at West Ham and he wanted to come, but because of his contract I can say his story with us is finished," Bilic said.
"He is still our player until the moment he goes somewhere but mainly it's the circumstance with his contract. He's definitely a good player and we had big expectations but it just wasn't to be."
Slaven Bilic remains undeterred in his pursuit of Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe despite West Ham having a reported £6 million bid rejected.
Only five teams have scored fewer than West Ham's return of 23 Premier League goals this season, with winger Michail Antonio shouldering much of the burden with eight goals.
Andy Carroll - who has spent most of the season injured - is the highest-scoring of their recognised strikers with just two goals, while Simone Zaza, Ashley Fletcher, Diafra Sakho and Jonathan Calleri have only two between them.
By contrast, former Hammers striker Defoe has been a rare positive for relegation-threatened Sunderland this term, scoring 11 of their 19 Premier League goals as they desperately look to fend off relegation.
And Bilic, who initially refused to speak about other clubs' players, lavished praise on the 34-year-old after seemingly confirming West Ham have made a move to bring him back to the club.
"It [news of the bid] was on television," Bilic told reporters. "But we're not going to discuss players that are not ours."The whole club is trying really hard to get some players in positions that we need. But I'm not going to talk here in public.
"He has the things that are most important in a football game and that's goals. Last season he was probably the main reason Sunderland stayed up and he has continued to play the same way this season."Each game he is not only scoring goals but creating chances and most of the chances he's converting into goals."
Bilic also confirmed reports that he had been keeping an eye on Brentford's 24-year-old striker Scott Hogan, who has 14 Championship goals to his name this term.
"He's a good player," he added. "I've watched him a few times. Again he is scoring goals, he's very sharp, very quick and a very good finisher."He does it in the Championship. But once again, Hogan is not on our roster."
West Ham's need for offensive reinforcements has been made even more urgent by speculation linking Zaza with a departure and Bilic has acknowledged the Italian is nearing the exit door."We wanted him at West Ham and he wanted to come, but because of his contract I can say his story with us is finished," Bilic said.
"He is still our player until the moment he goes somewhere but mainly it's the circumstance with his contract. He's definitely a good player and we had big expectations but it just wasn't to be."
Ander Herrera is aware of the expectation levels at Old Trafford, with an obligation as part of the Manchester United ranks to “fight for every trophy”.The Red Devils have enjoyed a morale-boosting return to form over recent weeks.
Six successive victories in the Premier League have lifted them to within three points of the top four and 10 adrift of table-topping Chelsea.
They have some important fixtures approaching in that battle, with Liverpool next up at the Theatre of Dreams.Attention will, however, be shifted to domestic cup matters before then, with United hitting those contests at just the right time.
A semi-final showdown with Hull City awaits in the EFL Cup, while Saturday brings a home date with Reading in the third round of the FA Cup – a trophy the Red Devils lifted under Louis van Gaal last season.
“We are United, we have to fight for every trophy and at home against Reading we have the obligation to try to win, to score goals and to get to the next round,”Herrera told the club’s official website.“They are a strong team and are high in the table so it will be difficult, but it’s a big tournament for us and we want to get to the next round.
"Jaap Stam was an important player for this club and now he manages Reading so he will know how to motivate his players, which means they will be dangerous."
Herrera was part of the United squad that edged out Crystal Palace 2-1 in the 2016 FA Cup and is determined to ensure that an iconic piece of silverware remains in the Old Trafford trophy cabinet.
He did not make it onto the field during an extra-time victory over the Eagles, but still considers the occasion to be among the best he has experienced during his time in England.The Spain international added: "It's a fantastic trophy and fantastic tournament.
"I will never forget winning it because it was my first trophy with United at Wembley. It was a fantastic day for us, we scored in the last five or 10 minutes, Jesse [Lingard] scored a fantastic goal, we had 10 men… it was a special day.
"When you think about the way you want to win then of course you want to win earlier and be more relaxed at the end, but the feeling after the game when you score in the last few minutes is fantastic, especially with 10 men against a good side."
Evra could leave Juventus in January amid Man Utd return rumours
Patrice Evra is set to leave Juventus in January amid reports of interest from his old club, Manchester United, Goal understands.
The left-back spent eight years at Old Trafford before moving to the Italian giants, winning five Premier League titles and the Champions League along the way.Evra has since won two Serie A titles in Italy but it is understood that the Old Lady are willing to allow him to depart the club in the winter window.
Both Kwadwo Asamoah and Alex Sandro can deputise at left-back but Juve would rather that Evra did not leave the club quickly so they are not forced into the transfer market.
The former United star has been linked with a return to Old Trafford after Rio Ferdinand sent the rumour mill into overdrive with a seemingly hopeful Instagram post.
"Throwing it out there... I'm hearing thru [sic] social media u coming home bro?! Talk to me," Ferdinand wrote, beside a picture of him celebrating a United goal with Evra.
Subsequent reports claim that the Frenchman has a desire to return to United as he looks to end his career away from Turin.
The 35-year-old has won 81 caps for France but has seen his playing time limited this season, making just six appearances for Juventus in Serie A.
Patrice Evra is set to leave Juventus in January amid reports of interest from his old club, Manchester United, Goal understands.
The left-back spent eight years at Old Trafford before moving to the Italian giants, winning five Premier League titles and the Champions League along the way.Evra has since won two Serie A titles in Italy but it is understood that the Old Lady are willing to allow him to depart the club in the winter window.
Both Kwadwo Asamoah and Alex Sandro can deputise at left-back but Juve would rather that Evra did not leave the club quickly so they are not forced into the transfer market.
The former United star has been linked with a return to Old Trafford after Rio Ferdinand sent the rumour mill into overdrive with a seemingly hopeful Instagram post.
"Throwing it out there... I'm hearing thru [sic] social media u coming home bro?! Talk to me," Ferdinand wrote, beside a picture of him celebrating a United goal with Evra.
Subsequent reports claim that the Frenchman has a desire to return to United as he looks to end his career away from Turin.
The 35-year-old has won 81 caps for France but has seen his playing time limited this season, making just six appearances for Juventus in Serie A.
Fonte hands in transfer request at Southampton
Southampton captain Jose Fonte has submitted a transfer request, the Premier League club have confirmed.
The 33-year-old Portugal centre-back's deal at St Mary's Stadium runs until June 2018 and director of football Les Reed has now reveaed that he has opted not to sign fresh terms.
"He's had several opportunities to improve the contract situation. He's reserved his right not to do that," Reed told BBC Radio Solent."He's made it very clear he would like to explore the opportunities for a transfer."That's where we are at the moment, Jose wants to leave the club. He's formally asked for a transfer."
Fonte, who has made 288 appearances for Saints since joining from Crystal Palace in January 2010, was linked with Manchester United after helping Portugal to Euro 2016 glory.
He rejected reports he had turned down a new deal at Southampton last month, posting on his Instagram page: "Just to set the record straight I did not reject a new contract. In fact, I have been informed by Southampton that they are not offering me a new contract."
However, Reed insists Southampton were keen to reward the player with a pay rise and an additional 12 months on top of his existing deal."What was offered to Jose was, in my view, quite significant off the back of the contract he signed in October 2015," Reed added.
"Six months later we were prepared to improve that contract and extend it. He has turned down the opportunity to increase his salary, and he's turned down the opportunity to get another permanent year on his contract."
Fonte's central defensive partner at Southampton, Virgil van Dijk, has also been the subject of recent transfer speculation, with Everton and Manchester City both thought to be admirers of the Netherlands international.
Southampton captain Jose Fonte has submitted a transfer request, the Premier League club have confirmed.
The 33-year-old Portugal centre-back's deal at St Mary's Stadium runs until June 2018 and director of football Les Reed has now reveaed that he has opted not to sign fresh terms.
"He's had several opportunities to improve the contract situation. He's reserved his right not to do that," Reed told BBC Radio Solent."He's made it very clear he would like to explore the opportunities for a transfer."That's where we are at the moment, Jose wants to leave the club. He's formally asked for a transfer."
Fonte, who has made 288 appearances for Saints since joining from Crystal Palace in January 2010, was linked with Manchester United after helping Portugal to Euro 2016 glory.
He rejected reports he had turned down a new deal at Southampton last month, posting on his Instagram page: "Just to set the record straight I did not reject a new contract. In fact, I have been informed by Southampton that they are not offering me a new contract."
However, Reed insists Southampton were keen to reward the player with a pay rise and an additional 12 months on top of his existing deal."What was offered to Jose was, in my view, quite significant off the back of the contract he signed in October 2015," Reed added.
"Six months later we were prepared to improve that contract and extend it. He has turned down the opportunity to increase his salary, and he's turned down the opportunity to get another permanent year on his contract."
Fonte's central defensive partner at Southampton, Virgil van Dijk, has also been the subject of recent transfer speculation, with Everton and Manchester City both thought to be admirers of the Netherlands international.
Wayne Rooney returned to Manchester United training on Thursday after missing three matches over the festive period due to injury.
The United captain last played in the 2-0 victory at West Brom on December 17, helping them to a 2-0 win before sustaining a thigh strain in training.
There were few signs of United missing the striker, though, as they beat Sunderland and Middlesbrough at Old Trafford, before also clinching a controversial 2-0 win at West Ham United in his absence.
Rooney endured a miserable 2016 in front of goal, scoring just six times in the Premier League, and he will be eager to get 2017 off to a more convincing start should he be declared fit to feature against Reading in the FA Cup on Saturday.The 31-year-old returns to action needing just one strike to equal Bobby Charlton's all-time of 249 goals for United.
West Ham target £20m move for Celtic star Dembele
West Ham have added Celtic striker Moussa Dembele to their transfer shortlist as they attempt to recruit a forward in the January window, Goal understands.
Currently languishing 13th in the Premier League table, the Hammers are desperate to add to their current crop of strikers and are subsequently understood to have tabled a £20 million bid for the 20-year-old.
Andy Carroll is currently the highest scoring forward in the squad with just two goals in the league and Slaven Bilic has subsequently informed the club’s owners that he requires a new signing in the winter window.
Dembele is an ambitious target; the Frenchman only joined Celtic from Fulham in the summer, but his performances since then have attracted interest from across Europe.
Chelsea and Manchester United have also been linked with potential bids for the forward, but it appears that West Ham are the first club to formally register their interest with an offer. The forward has 19 goals to his name in all competitions this season.
Celtic, however, are likely to reject any interest from the Hammers out of hand, as Dembele signed a four-year contract when he completed his move to the club and they are under no pressure to sell.
The move comes after West Ham had a £5m bid for Jermain Defoe rejected by Sunderland and again exemplifies the club’s desperation to sign a striker before the deadline at the end of the month.
It is understood that another bid for Defoe, likely to be worth around £7m, is in the pipeline but the Black Cats are reluctant to sell as they continue to battle relegation despite reports suggesting the former England international is keen to return to east London.
West Ham have also had a bid rejected for Brentford forward Scott Hogan, with an opening offer of £8m not enough to prise the 24-year-old away from the Championship club.
West Ham have added Celtic striker Moussa Dembele to their transfer shortlist as they attempt to recruit a forward in the January window, Goal understands.
Currently languishing 13th in the Premier League table, the Hammers are desperate to add to their current crop of strikers and are subsequently understood to have tabled a £20 million bid for the 20-year-old.
Andy Carroll is currently the highest scoring forward in the squad with just two goals in the league and Slaven Bilic has subsequently informed the club’s owners that he requires a new signing in the winter window.
Dembele is an ambitious target; the Frenchman only joined Celtic from Fulham in the summer, but his performances since then have attracted interest from across Europe.
Chelsea and Manchester United have also been linked with potential bids for the forward, but it appears that West Ham are the first club to formally register their interest with an offer. The forward has 19 goals to his name in all competitions this season.
Celtic, however, are likely to reject any interest from the Hammers out of hand, as Dembele signed a four-year contract when he completed his move to the club and they are under no pressure to sell.
The move comes after West Ham had a £5m bid for Jermain Defoe rejected by Sunderland and again exemplifies the club’s desperation to sign a striker before the deadline at the end of the month.
It is understood that another bid for Defoe, likely to be worth around £7m, is in the pipeline but the Black Cats are reluctant to sell as they continue to battle relegation despite reports suggesting the former England international is keen to return to east London.
West Ham have also had a bid rejected for Brentford forward Scott Hogan, with an opening offer of £8m not enough to prise the 24-year-old away from the Championship club.
