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Congratulations Manchester United!
Ada draw ekath ekkama 2nd place secure una
btw 1st half play karapu widiya ekka balanakotanam 2nd half play karapu widiya madi
1st half tharam attack ekka thibune naha 2nd half nam
& Congratulations De Gea!
Ada clean sheet ekath ekath ekka meh season eke Premier Golden Glove winner
& next Watford home match eka.Good luck for the next match Manchester United!
Ada draw ekath ekkama 2nd place secure una
btw 1st half play karapu widiya ekka balanakotanam 2nd half play karapu widiya madi
1st half tharam attack ekka thibune naha 2nd half nam& Congratulations De Gea!
& next Watford home match eka.Good luck for the next match Manchester United!
West Ham 0 Manchester United 0: Mourinho's men seal second spot
Manchester United guaranteed a second-place finish in the Premier League with a tame 0-0 draw at already-safe West Ham on Thursday.
Jose Mourinho's men, beaten 1-0 at Brighton and Hove Albion on Friday, knew a point at London Stadium would be enough to ensure they will end the season as runners-up to rivals Manchester City.With defences on top, Adrian made a string of saves to protect West Ham's clean sheet and justify his selection in goal ahead of England international Joe Hart, who returned from illness but was only named on the bench.
United goalkeeper David de Gea, meanwhile, was untested as he ensured he will collect the Premier League's Golden Glove for the first time by recording his 18th shutout of the season.Mourinho made eight changes from the Brighton loss, with Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford among those dropped, but United could not find a way to beat Adrian, who brilliantly turned a Luke Shaw drive onto the post in the first half.
Back-to-back blanks indicate United - 19 points behind champions City with one round of games to play - are badly missing leading goalscorer Romelu Lukaku, who is battling to recover from a foot injury in time for next weekend's FA Cup final against his old club Chelsea.
Marko Arnautovic beat Chris Smalling for pace in the seventh minute but fired straight at De Gea, the forward then heading over after the United defender badly sliced a clearance. Scott McTominay lashed a 25-yard drive narrowly wide after Ander Herrera hustled Manuel Lanzini out of possession and Adrian turned away a rasping Jesse Lingard effort.
United were developing cohesion and, following Adrian's parry of an Alexis Sanchez strike, Shaw thumped the rebound against the base of the post via a vital touch off the goalkeeper's boot.
But with the game played at a very low tempo and with a distinct end-of-season feel, the first half ended without a goal when Adrian denied Lingard again in stoppage time.In the absence of the injured Lukaku, Lingard appeared to be United's most likely scorer, though he could not beat Adrian with a 20-yard strike in the 55th minute.
Paul Pogba was struggling to exert influence on the game and the midfielder should have scored from Antonio Valencia's right-wing cross, instead heading wide.Both managers made attacking changes as former United boss David Moyes introduced Andy Carroll off the bench and Mourinho turned to Rashford in search of a winner.
But neither side could break the deadlock in a contest with little riding on the outcome, though Pogba and Hammers captain Mark Noble earned 88th-minute bookings in a fiery climax.
Manchester United guaranteed a second-place finish in the Premier League with a tame 0-0 draw at already-safe West Ham on Thursday.
Jose Mourinho's men, beaten 1-0 at Brighton and Hove Albion on Friday, knew a point at London Stadium would be enough to ensure they will end the season as runners-up to rivals Manchester City.With defences on top, Adrian made a string of saves to protect West Ham's clean sheet and justify his selection in goal ahead of England international Joe Hart, who returned from illness but was only named on the bench.
United goalkeeper David de Gea, meanwhile, was untested as he ensured he will collect the Premier League's Golden Glove for the first time by recording his 18th shutout of the season.Mourinho made eight changes from the Brighton loss, with Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford among those dropped, but United could not find a way to beat Adrian, who brilliantly turned a Luke Shaw drive onto the post in the first half.
Back-to-back blanks indicate United - 19 points behind champions City with one round of games to play - are badly missing leading goalscorer Romelu Lukaku, who is battling to recover from a foot injury in time for next weekend's FA Cup final against his old club Chelsea.
Marko Arnautovic beat Chris Smalling for pace in the seventh minute but fired straight at De Gea, the forward then heading over after the United defender badly sliced a clearance. Scott McTominay lashed a 25-yard drive narrowly wide after Ander Herrera hustled Manuel Lanzini out of possession and Adrian turned away a rasping Jesse Lingard effort.
United were developing cohesion and, following Adrian's parry of an Alexis Sanchez strike, Shaw thumped the rebound against the base of the post via a vital touch off the goalkeeper's boot.
But with the game played at a very low tempo and with a distinct end-of-season feel, the first half ended without a goal when Adrian denied Lingard again in stoppage time.In the absence of the injured Lukaku, Lingard appeared to be United's most likely scorer, though he could not beat Adrian with a 20-yard strike in the 55th minute.
Paul Pogba was struggling to exert influence on the game and the midfielder should have scored from Antonio Valencia's right-wing cross, instead heading wide.Both managers made attacking changes as former United boss David Moyes introduced Andy Carroll off the bench and Mourinho turned to Rashford in search of a winner.
But neither side could break the deadlock in a contest with little riding on the outcome, though Pogba and Hammers captain Mark Noble earned 88th-minute bookings in a fiery climax.
David de Gea has widely been considered the top goalkeeper in the Premier League for years, and now can claim an elusive bit of hardware to back it up.
Despite his long track record of success, De Gea had never taken home the Premier League Golden Glove award, which is handed out each season to the goalkeeper who keeps the most clean sheets on the campaign.The Manchester United goalkeeper earned his 18th clean sheet of the season in a scoreless draw against West Ham United on Thursday, ensuring that he finishes on top of the 2017-18 Premier League charts for the category.
Manchester City’s Ederson, who currently sits in second place, holds 16 clean sheets having sat out his club’s 3-1 victory over Brighton on Wednesday and with one game remaining, cannot catch his counterpart on the red side of Manchester.
The award, which was first handed out in 2004-05, has seen six different winners since its inception. Joe Hart, then of Manchester City, and Petr Cech, with both Chelsea and Arsenal, are the career leaders with four Golden Gloves each. Former Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina has won the award three times.Thibaut Courtois, Wojciech Szczesny and Edwin Van Der Sar each took home the award once.De Gea becomes the first Manchester United goalkeeper to win it since Van Der Sar in 2008-09, and the first Spain goalkeeper since Reina in 07-08.
With 18 clean sheets on the season, De Gea has already secured the highest total in the category since Joe Hart also landed on that number in 2012-13.If he can add another in Manchester United’s final game of the Premier League season, at home against Watford on Sunday, De Gea’s total will be the best since Van Der Sar managed 21 in his victorious season.
The best for any goalkeeper since the award began was in its debut season, when Petr Cech picked up 24 clean sheets for Jose Mourinho’s title-winning Chelsea side.It is also the third time a Mourinho goalkeeper has won it, with Cech taking it on both previous occasions, the second time in 2013-14.While it is De Gea's first Golden Glove, he has certainly received individual Premier League honors before, having been named to the league's team of the season on five separate occasions, including this campain.
Lloris: Top four finish better than a trophy
Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has said that a top four finish for Spurs means more to the team than winning a trophy.
Spurs secured qualifiaction to the Champions League for a third successive season after beating Newcastle 1-0 on Wednesday night.The north London side are going through their most succesful period in over two decades under Mauricio Pochettino, finishing second and third in the previous two seasons.
Pochettino is yet to win a trophy at Spurs and there are worries that star players such as Harry Kane and Christian Eriksen will become disillusioned with life at the club if they don't lift some silverware soon.
One player who doesn't feel that sentiment is Hugo Lloris, who feels that the achievement of finishing in the top four whilst not having a home stadium is greater than winning a trophy."To be in the Champions League three times in a row means a lot; to be above Chelsea and Arsenal, I think we deserve credit," Lloris told the BBC.
"Not a lot of people believed in Tottenham at the beginning of the season for the top four places and I think today means more than a trophy because we showed the club is strong even if we had some difficult moments."Even though the French keeper is happy with a top four finish he still aims to win something with the club.
"We need to enjoy it because we've played 37 games away from home - that's the feeling to be honest."You can say whatever you want, but Tottenham isn't at its home ground and I think the most exciting thing is that next season we will play Champions League in our new stadium.
"For the fans, the club, the players, the coaching and medical staff it's a big, big achievement but we need to keep working and to stay ambitious because the next step is to win something."
Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has said that a top four finish for Spurs means more to the team than winning a trophy.
Spurs secured qualifiaction to the Champions League for a third successive season after beating Newcastle 1-0 on Wednesday night.The north London side are going through their most succesful period in over two decades under Mauricio Pochettino, finishing second and third in the previous two seasons.
Pochettino is yet to win a trophy at Spurs and there are worries that star players such as Harry Kane and Christian Eriksen will become disillusioned with life at the club if they don't lift some silverware soon.
One player who doesn't feel that sentiment is Hugo Lloris, who feels that the achievement of finishing in the top four whilst not having a home stadium is greater than winning a trophy."To be in the Champions League three times in a row means a lot; to be above Chelsea and Arsenal, I think we deserve credit," Lloris told the BBC.
"Not a lot of people believed in Tottenham at the beginning of the season for the top four places and I think today means more than a trophy because we showed the club is strong even if we had some difficult moments."Even though the French keeper is happy with a top four finish he still aims to win something with the club.
"We need to enjoy it because we've played 37 games away from home - that's the feeling to be honest."You can say whatever you want, but Tottenham isn't at its home ground and I think the most exciting thing is that next season we will play Champions League in our new stadium.
"For the fans, the club, the players, the coaching and medical staff it's a big, big achievement but we need to keep working and to stay ambitious because the next step is to win something."
Jorginho's agent claims no Man Utd contract ahead of summer scramble for midfielder
The agent of in-demand Napoli midfielder Jorginho claims he has yet to receive any offer from Manchester United.
Goal revealed recently that the Italy international has been made a top summer transfer target for Premier League champions Manchester City.They are not the only ones in the hunt, though, with Joao Santos confirming that there are “four or five” English sides set to spark a scramble for a much sought-after signature.
United were believed to be among those keen to do a deal for the talented 26-year-old, but his representative insists no move has been made by those at Old Trafford.
Santos told Radio Crc: “Jorginho has done very well with Napoli, he plays for the Italian national team, he is unique in his characteristics and for those reasons he’s probably being followed by many teams.“At the moment though there are a lot of rumours flying about. The Napoli coach and players are being approached by first one team then another, but there’s nothing official.
“The last thing I read is that Manchester United made a proposal through [Jose] Mourinho’s representative [Jorge Mendes], but no-one called me.”Jorginho still has two years left to run on his current contract at Napoli, but big-money bids could free him from that agreement.Santos insists there is no chance of him moving to another side in Serie A, but he is aware of the mounting interest from the Premier League after speaking with several clubs.
He added: “Everyone asks for information, but nobody has made any official offers so I can’t say which track is hotter.“I’ve already been to all the English clubs because that’s my job, I get information.If he were to leave Napoli I can say that Jorginho wouldn’t play for any other team, even if he didn’t have any release clause.”
England would appear to be the most logical destination for Jorginho if a summer move is to be made, with links to La Liga giants Barcelona played down.Santos said: “That’s very difficult because they’ve signed Arthur from Gremio and he plays in the same role as Jorginho. I haven’t been to Barcelona.”Jorginho has made 35 appearances for Napoli in all competitions this season, netting three goals and providing four assists.
The agent of in-demand Napoli midfielder Jorginho claims he has yet to receive any offer from Manchester United.
Goal revealed recently that the Italy international has been made a top summer transfer target for Premier League champions Manchester City.They are not the only ones in the hunt, though, with Joao Santos confirming that there are “four or five” English sides set to spark a scramble for a much sought-after signature.
United were believed to be among those keen to do a deal for the talented 26-year-old, but his representative insists no move has been made by those at Old Trafford.
Santos told Radio Crc: “Jorginho has done very well with Napoli, he plays for the Italian national team, he is unique in his characteristics and for those reasons he’s probably being followed by many teams.“At the moment though there are a lot of rumours flying about. The Napoli coach and players are being approached by first one team then another, but there’s nothing official.
“The last thing I read is that Manchester United made a proposal through [Jose] Mourinho’s representative [Jorge Mendes], but no-one called me.”Jorginho still has two years left to run on his current contract at Napoli, but big-money bids could free him from that agreement.Santos insists there is no chance of him moving to another side in Serie A, but he is aware of the mounting interest from the Premier League after speaking with several clubs.
He added: “Everyone asks for information, but nobody has made any official offers so I can’t say which track is hotter.“I’ve already been to all the English clubs because that’s my job, I get information.If he were to leave Napoli I can say that Jorginho wouldn’t play for any other team, even if he didn’t have any release clause.”
England would appear to be the most logical destination for Jorginho if a summer move is to be made, with links to La Liga giants Barcelona played down.Santos said: “That’s very difficult because they’ve signed Arthur from Gremio and he plays in the same role as Jorginho. I haven’t been to Barcelona.”Jorginho has made 35 appearances for Napoli in all competitions this season, netting three goals and providing four assists.
Arda Turan receives record 16-match ban for pushing linesman
On-loan Barcelona striker Arda Turan has received a record 16-match ban in Turkey after pushing a linesman in a moment of madness at the weekend.
Turan, 31, was released to Superlig side Basaksehir in January in a two-and-a-half season temporary deal having failed to impress at Camp Nou since moving from Atletico Madrid in 2016.Signed to reinforce the Istanbul club in their bid for their first title in their history, he has made a total of 11 appearances to date, scoring on two occasions.
But in a 1-1 draw against Sivasspor Turan became incensed at the failure to award a foul, and channelled his rage at a linesman.
The player remonstrated furiously with the official, before shoving him and walking away. Unsurprisingly he was immediately issued a red card, and and the Turkish FA's disciplinary board have backed the decision by handing down the longest ban in the nation's football history.Arda's ban means that he will miss Basaksehir's last two games of the 2017-18 season, with the club trailing leaders Galatasaray by two points.He will additionally be barred from playing the first 14 games of 2018-19, almost half of the campaign.
Basaksehir's coach Abdullah Avci had nevertheless defended his wayward star in the aftermath of the incident. "These things are part of the game. We can't be bothered by the thoughts of those who write on social media, people that we don't even know," Avci fired when questioned by reporters after the game.
"It's not easy when you lead the league race so long and then have a result like that. The anxiety can get to you."It is not the first time Arda has attracted controversy since moving back to his native Turkey. In March the player threatened to "crush" a journalist's head and eyes when he and his wife were interrupted at dinner by the reporter's questions.
On-loan Barcelona striker Arda Turan has received a record 16-match ban in Turkey after pushing a linesman in a moment of madness at the weekend.
Turan, 31, was released to Superlig side Basaksehir in January in a two-and-a-half season temporary deal having failed to impress at Camp Nou since moving from Atletico Madrid in 2016.Signed to reinforce the Istanbul club in their bid for their first title in their history, he has made a total of 11 appearances to date, scoring on two occasions.
But in a 1-1 draw against Sivasspor Turan became incensed at the failure to award a foul, and channelled his rage at a linesman.
The player remonstrated furiously with the official, before shoving him and walking away. Unsurprisingly he was immediately issued a red card, and and the Turkish FA's disciplinary board have backed the decision by handing down the longest ban in the nation's football history.Arda's ban means that he will miss Basaksehir's last two games of the 2017-18 season, with the club trailing leaders Galatasaray by two points.He will additionally be barred from playing the first 14 games of 2018-19, almost half of the campaign.
Basaksehir's coach Abdullah Avci had nevertheless defended his wayward star in the aftermath of the incident. "These things are part of the game. We can't be bothered by the thoughts of those who write on social media, people that we don't even know," Avci fired when questioned by reporters after the game.
"It's not easy when you lead the league race so long and then have a result like that. The anxiety can get to you."It is not the first time Arda has attracted controversy since moving back to his native Turkey. In March the player threatened to "crush" a journalist's head and eyes when he and his wife were interrupted at dinner by the reporter's questions.
'Liverpool need to sign four £50m stars' - Aldridge wants £200m war chest for Klopp
Liverpool need to sign “four quality players worth £50 million each”, says John Aldridge, with heavy summer investment required to make the club Premier League title challengers.
The Reds have made their way through to the Champions League final this season, but have faltered domestically to be left sweating on a top-four finish heading into last round of fixtures.There is clearly a sizeable gap to be bridged between those at Anfield and runaway champions Manchester City, with funds required in the next transfer window in order to close it.
Aldridge believes Jurgen Klopp's side, who splashed out £75m ($102m) on Virgil van Dijk in January, will require another £200m ($271m) if they are to be competitive – with one deal already in place for RB Leipzig midfielder Naby Keita.
The former Reds striker told the Liverpool Echo ahead of a crunch clash with Brighton: “I'd expect Jurgen Klopp to go strong on Sunday, primarily because he hasn't really got any other choice.“We don't have a backup plan, we don't have enough players, particularly in midfield. Ben Woodburn could do a job, but not at this stage of the season.
“What it shows is that we need to do some good business once again in the transfer window this summer.“There cannot be any messing about. We need four quality players, players worth £50m each. That's £200m on new talent. We need the best we can get.
“And that's why beating Brighton is so important. Sure, we can qualify for the Champions League by beating Real Madrid in the final, but it would be a lot easier to defeat the Seagulls at Anfield.
“If we do it on Sunday, then that gives us two extra weeks to agree deals with players in the knowledge Champions League football will be back at Liverpool next season.”
Champions League qualification will be crucial to Jurgen Klopp’s recruitment plans, with the Reds set to fierce competition from domestic and continental rivals for the very best talent available.They are already being linked with a host of names, but few deals are likely to be done until the European picture on Merseyside becomes a little clearer and a transfer kitty is finalised.
Liverpool need to sign “four quality players worth £50 million each”, says John Aldridge, with heavy summer investment required to make the club Premier League title challengers.
The Reds have made their way through to the Champions League final this season, but have faltered domestically to be left sweating on a top-four finish heading into last round of fixtures.There is clearly a sizeable gap to be bridged between those at Anfield and runaway champions Manchester City, with funds required in the next transfer window in order to close it.
Aldridge believes Jurgen Klopp's side, who splashed out £75m ($102m) on Virgil van Dijk in January, will require another £200m ($271m) if they are to be competitive – with one deal already in place for RB Leipzig midfielder Naby Keita.
The former Reds striker told the Liverpool Echo ahead of a crunch clash with Brighton: “I'd expect Jurgen Klopp to go strong on Sunday, primarily because he hasn't really got any other choice.“We don't have a backup plan, we don't have enough players, particularly in midfield. Ben Woodburn could do a job, but not at this stage of the season.
“What it shows is that we need to do some good business once again in the transfer window this summer.“There cannot be any messing about. We need four quality players, players worth £50m each. That's £200m on new talent. We need the best we can get.
“And that's why beating Brighton is so important. Sure, we can qualify for the Champions League by beating Real Madrid in the final, but it would be a lot easier to defeat the Seagulls at Anfield.
“If we do it on Sunday, then that gives us two extra weeks to agree deals with players in the knowledge Champions League football will be back at Liverpool next season.”
Champions League qualification will be crucial to Jurgen Klopp’s recruitment plans, with the Reds set to fierce competition from domestic and continental rivals for the very best talent available.They are already being linked with a host of names, but few deals are likely to be done until the European picture on Merseyside becomes a little clearer and a transfer kitty is finalised.
John Henry promises Klopp summer funds amid Liverpool links to Fekir & Dembele
John Henry has vowed to provide the financial support that will allow Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp to dip back into the transfer market this summer.The Reds have been active in recent windows, but a club-record £75 million ($102m) deal for Virgil van Dijk in January was countered by the £146m ($198m) sale of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona.
A deal has also been put in place for RB Leipzig midfielder Naby Keita, with the Guinean set to officially arrive on July 1, but there is an acceptance on Merseyside that greater squad depth is required.
Henry is aware of that, with a run through to the 2018 Champions League final having pushed the Liverpool squad to its limits as they are left sweating on a top-four finish in the Premier League.Klopp will be allowed to address those issues when the next window of opportunity presents itself, with his owner telling BBC Sport: “[Fans] will never stop worrying about who’s coming, who’s potentially coming, who’s going.
“What I can say is, we realise that any team who goes deep in the Champions League and the Premier League has a difficult time in the Premier League. “You have to focus your attention where you can and try to keep your players healthy playing twice a week often. But we’re looking forward to next season as well.”
When quizzed again on whether investment will be made this summer, Henry added: “We always invest in the squad every summer.”Henry refused to be drawn on the identity of possible Liverpool targets, with a generic answer provided when pressed for specifics.He was speaking amid much talk of moves for Lyon midfielder Nabil Fekir and Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele, with both men said to be figuring on the Reds’ radar.
Klopp has attempted to steer clear of those rumours for now, but they could come into his thoughts if the necessary funds are made available at the end of the season.
John Henry has vowed to provide the financial support that will allow Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp to dip back into the transfer market this summer.The Reds have been active in recent windows, but a club-record £75 million ($102m) deal for Virgil van Dijk in January was countered by the £146m ($198m) sale of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona.
A deal has also been put in place for RB Leipzig midfielder Naby Keita, with the Guinean set to officially arrive on July 1, but there is an acceptance on Merseyside that greater squad depth is required.
Henry is aware of that, with a run through to the 2018 Champions League final having pushed the Liverpool squad to its limits as they are left sweating on a top-four finish in the Premier League.Klopp will be allowed to address those issues when the next window of opportunity presents itself, with his owner telling BBC Sport: “[Fans] will never stop worrying about who’s coming, who’s potentially coming, who’s going.
“What I can say is, we realise that any team who goes deep in the Champions League and the Premier League has a difficult time in the Premier League. “You have to focus your attention where you can and try to keep your players healthy playing twice a week often. But we’re looking forward to next season as well.”
When quizzed again on whether investment will be made this summer, Henry added: “We always invest in the squad every summer.”Henry refused to be drawn on the identity of possible Liverpool targets, with a generic answer provided when pressed for specifics.He was speaking amid much talk of moves for Lyon midfielder Nabil Fekir and Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele, with both men said to be figuring on the Reds’ radar.
Klopp has attempted to steer clear of those rumours for now, but they could come into his thoughts if the necessary funds are made available at the end of the season.
‘Special’ Arsenal will challenge for Premier League title next season – Wenger
Arsenal will challenge for the Premier League title next season, according to outgoing manager Arsene Wenger.
The Gunners find themselves 37 points behind league leaders Manchester City, following a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Leicester on Wednesday, continuing a trend of poor away performances that see them ranked 16th in the league in terms of their away form. They have also conceded more goals this season than ever before in the Premier League era.
Wenger, who will leave the club at the end of the season, believes that his successor will be able to make a few minor tweaks to get more out of the Emirates side on their travels.
“I’m convinced Arsenal will be one of the contenders next year,” he told the Evening Standard. “The quality is there, the spirit is exceptional.“If the team has one or two good away results next season they will play for the Premiership, I’m convinced, because there is something special in that team that will come out next season.“If you look at our season, at home we have championship winning form and away we have a consequence of many things.”
Indeed, Wenger thinks that a mix of circumstances have contributed to his side failing on their travels.“We have a lack of confidence because of a few bad results and after that we neglected a little bit some games because we were in the Europa League,” he said.
Arsenal’s loss on Wednesday was their seventh straight defeat on the road, a statistic that the club had not known since 1966.The Gunners conclude their season on Sunday, attempting to break that miserable run when they travel to Huddersfield.
It will be a memorable game for Wenger, as it will be the last in a reign that has spanned over 22 years at the north London club.He has overseen three Premier League title victories, including during the 2003-04 season, when ‘the Invincibles’ completed the campaign without a single defeat. He also led the Gunners to the 2005 Champions League final, in which they were defeated 2-1 by Barcelona.
Arsenal are hopeful that they will be able to name the veteran Frenchman’s replacement before the beginning of the World Cup in the middle of June, with Massimiliano Allegri and Luis Enrique among the frontrunners for the post.
Arsenal will challenge for the Premier League title next season, according to outgoing manager Arsene Wenger.
The Gunners find themselves 37 points behind league leaders Manchester City, following a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Leicester on Wednesday, continuing a trend of poor away performances that see them ranked 16th in the league in terms of their away form. They have also conceded more goals this season than ever before in the Premier League era.
Wenger, who will leave the club at the end of the season, believes that his successor will be able to make a few minor tweaks to get more out of the Emirates side on their travels.
“I’m convinced Arsenal will be one of the contenders next year,” he told the Evening Standard. “The quality is there, the spirit is exceptional.“If the team has one or two good away results next season they will play for the Premiership, I’m convinced, because there is something special in that team that will come out next season.“If you look at our season, at home we have championship winning form and away we have a consequence of many things.”
Indeed, Wenger thinks that a mix of circumstances have contributed to his side failing on their travels.“We have a lack of confidence because of a few bad results and after that we neglected a little bit some games because we were in the Europa League,” he said.
Arsenal’s loss on Wednesday was their seventh straight defeat on the road, a statistic that the club had not known since 1966.The Gunners conclude their season on Sunday, attempting to break that miserable run when they travel to Huddersfield.
It will be a memorable game for Wenger, as it will be the last in a reign that has spanned over 22 years at the north London club.He has overseen three Premier League title victories, including during the 2003-04 season, when ‘the Invincibles’ completed the campaign without a single defeat. He also led the Gunners to the 2005 Champions League final, in which they were defeated 2-1 by Barcelona.
Arsenal are hopeful that they will be able to name the veteran Frenchman’s replacement before the beginning of the World Cup in the middle of June, with Massimiliano Allegri and Luis Enrique among the frontrunners for the post.
'He is an iconic player' - Mourinho & Moyes back Rooney's MLS switchJose Mourinho and David Moyes offered messages of support to Wayne Rooney as England and Manchester United's record goalscorer reportedly considers a move to DC United.
Rooney was reportedly close to moving to MLS at the end of last season, but instead rejoined Everton at the end of a 13-year trophy-laden spell at Manchester United.Moyes and Mourinho both coached Rooney during his period at Old Trafford, the Scot overseeing the striker's breakthrough at Everton too, and both managers believe the 32-year-old can be a success in America.
Rooney's former England team-mates Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard both headed to MLS in the latter stages of their career, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Patrick Vieira both working in the league now.
"When he made it at Everton, his boyhood club, the world was surprised with that kid," Mourinho said of Rooney after United's 0-0 draw at West Ham in the Premier League on Thursday."Then he goes to Manchester United and has an incredible career. Then he's in the Premier League again with Everton, so I think his career in England was perfect.
"What next? He decides. MLS? In MLS you have always some iconic players who are going to end their career there. You have Gerrard, Lampard, Vieira, so many of them. Now you have Zlatan and Wayne. So I just hope he enjoys it."Of course he will bring the attention that MLS needs to attract more people to steal from the other sports that normally the American people are in love with."
Moyes predicted Rooney will go on to be an MLS success story if he completes a move to DC United that is reported to be worth around £12million.
"Wayne has been a great player and probably one of the best players to grace the last era of football," the West Ham boss said."I really enjoyed him at Everton - he was really young then - I really enjoyed him at Manchester United, he helped me a lot then."So, I've got to say, if he chooses to go, DC will be getting a good player. He can play in a couple of roles, he's a brilliant goalscorer and I still think he has got more to give."
De Gea's Golden Glove reflective of Man United - MourinhoManchester United manager Jose Mourinho hailed David de Gea after the star goalkeeper claimed his maiden Premier League Golden Glove, though he insisted the award is about the team.
De Gea scooped the Golden Glove award for the first time after recording his 18th clean sheet of the season in Thursday's goalless draw at West Ham.It added to De Gea's fourth Manchester United Player of the Year award he collected this month as Mourinho lauded the Spain international.
"David has been terrific," Mourinho said via MUTV. "But the Golden Glove is about the team and not about somebody analysing the goalkeeper, and deciding this is the best goalkeeper of the Premier League.
"It is about clean sheets and they are about the team. Obviously, we are all very happy for David and it is a great team achievement."De Gea's shut-out performance against West Ham ensured he cannot be caught by Manchester City rival Ederson in the race for the Golden Glove.Chelsea's Thibaut Courtois won the gong last season, with Edwin van der Sar the last United keeper to claim the Golden Glove in 2008-09.
De Gea - who has been linked with European champions Real Madrid - said: "It feels good, it is my first Golden Glove award.
"I am really happy for that. It means we defended well in this league, I am happy for me and happy for the team."It is for everyone, it is a team award, not just for the goalkeeper. It's good for me but I am also happy for the team."
Iniesta expects to decide future in week to 10 days
Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta revealed he would make a decision on his future in the next week to 10 days.Iniesta, 34, will leave the LaLiga champions at the end of the season after 16 trophy-laden campaigns.But where the Spain international is heading to next remains unclear, with Australia and Japan mooted as possible destinations after he was initially expected to be heading to China.
Iniesta – a winner of nine La Liga titles, four Champions Leagues, two European Championships and a World Cup – said he was close to making a decision on his future."I've almost come to the end of my commitments with Barcelona," he said on Thursday."It's true that I have various offers to think about and in the next week, 10 days, I'll try and decide which one is the best for me."
It had been reported for a few weeks that Iniesta was headed to China with the club sponsor of club Chongqing Lifan saying it was positive on the likelihood of a deal. However, on Monday the Chinese Super League club denied having any deal with the Barcelona star, and admitted there would be difficulty in completing such a move under the rules of the league.Since, reports have spoken of interest in Japan and Australia, though Iniesta himself has refused to eliminate any choices, besides stating he would not join another team that played in Europe.
After a victory over Villarreal on Wednesday, Iniesta had told beIN Sports the press would know when he told them the news and that he was focusing on Barcelona's quest for an undefeated La Liga season, and then on the Spain national team for the 2018 World Cup."They said I'm not going to China, now they say Japan is an option and I've also heard Australia," Iniesta told beIN. "You will know when I tell you. There are things to seal, little details and I will try and choose the best option.
"I try to enjoy each minute as there is not long to go and to be on the pitch is what I want. I have a week-and-a-half left to enjoy and when the season ends my mind will be on the national team and my future."It is not easy going so many games unbeaten. We have the chance to finish like that and it gives us a lot of enthusiasm."
Iniesta has two games remaining in his Barcelona career, with the La Liga champions traveling to face Levante on Sunday and then a home date for his final game with the club against Real Sociedad the following Sunday.
Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta revealed he would make a decision on his future in the next week to 10 days.Iniesta, 34, will leave the LaLiga champions at the end of the season after 16 trophy-laden campaigns.But where the Spain international is heading to next remains unclear, with Australia and Japan mooted as possible destinations after he was initially expected to be heading to China.
Iniesta – a winner of nine La Liga titles, four Champions Leagues, two European Championships and a World Cup – said he was close to making a decision on his future."I've almost come to the end of my commitments with Barcelona," he said on Thursday."It's true that I have various offers to think about and in the next week, 10 days, I'll try and decide which one is the best for me."
It had been reported for a few weeks that Iniesta was headed to China with the club sponsor of club Chongqing Lifan saying it was positive on the likelihood of a deal. However, on Monday the Chinese Super League club denied having any deal with the Barcelona star, and admitted there would be difficulty in completing such a move under the rules of the league.Since, reports have spoken of interest in Japan and Australia, though Iniesta himself has refused to eliminate any choices, besides stating he would not join another team that played in Europe.
After a victory over Villarreal on Wednesday, Iniesta had told beIN Sports the press would know when he told them the news and that he was focusing on Barcelona's quest for an undefeated La Liga season, and then on the Spain national team for the 2018 World Cup."They said I'm not going to China, now they say Japan is an option and I've also heard Australia," Iniesta told beIN. "You will know when I tell you. There are things to seal, little details and I will try and choose the best option.
"I try to enjoy each minute as there is not long to go and to be on the pitch is what I want. I have a week-and-a-half left to enjoy and when the season ends my mind will be on the national team and my future."It is not easy going so many games unbeaten. We have the chance to finish like that and it gives us a lot of enthusiasm."
Iniesta has two games remaining in his Barcelona career, with the La Liga champions traveling to face Levante on Sunday and then a home date for his final game with the club against Real Sociedad the following Sunday.
'Paul and Noble looked in love!' - Mourinho laughs off Pogba clashPaul Pogba and Mark Noble "looked in love" when they clashed late in Thursday's Premier League game between Manchester United and West Ham, joked Jose Mourinho.
Towards the end of a low-key stalemate at London Stadium that saw United guarantee they will finish in second position, Pogba caught the West Ham captain with a late challenge.Noble reacted furiously and rushed to confront the France international, appearing to push his hands into his opponent's face.
While both players earned yellow cards from official Jon Moss, Mourinho had a different view of the incident.
"The referee handled the game well," Mourinho said at a post-match news conference."I was watching images [of the incident] and Paul and Noble looked in love. "Hugs and kisses at the end so that was good. It was a competitive game."
Mourinho's counterpart David Moyes also felt the flashpoint required little serious discussion.
"I have got to say I didn't make much of it," Moyes said. "I saw there was a bit going on but the game had not been that type of game all night, there was a wee bit that came out of nowhere really but I wouldn't make anything of it."After 37 games, the players are all getting ready for a break."
Klose returns to Bayern Munich as youth coach
Miroslav Klose has returned to Bayern Munich to take charge of the Under-17 team, the Bundesliga champions announced.
The Germany legend, the all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup history and for his country, will take over the Bavarian giants' youth team for the 2018-19 season.Klose represented Bayern between 2007 and 2011, winning two domestic doubles before moving on to Lazio, where he ended his career.
"I'm really looking forward to this role at Bayern's academy," 2014 World Cup winner Klose said. "I'll give everything I can to justify the faith placed in to me to lead the development of these young players."Bayern also confirmed 17-year-old Franck Evina has signed a three-year professional contract.
Evina has started two Bundesliga games this season and sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic hailed the teenager's potential."Franck is a quick forward who has enormous athletic qualities," said Salihamidzic. "We're very happy we've secured his services over the long term, and we aim to further promote his good progress."
Evina added: "It's a great honour to get this chance at Bayern. "I want to continue to learn a lot in the next few years and want to repay the club's faith with good performances."
Miroslav Klose has returned to Bayern Munich to take charge of the Under-17 team, the Bundesliga champions announced.
The Germany legend, the all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup history and for his country, will take over the Bavarian giants' youth team for the 2018-19 season.Klose represented Bayern between 2007 and 2011, winning two domestic doubles before moving on to Lazio, where he ended his career.
"I'm really looking forward to this role at Bayern's academy," 2014 World Cup winner Klose said. "I'll give everything I can to justify the faith placed in to me to lead the development of these young players."Bayern also confirmed 17-year-old Franck Evina has signed a three-year professional contract.
Evina has started two Bundesliga games this season and sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic hailed the teenager's potential."Franck is a quick forward who has enormous athletic qualities," said Salihamidzic. "We're very happy we've secured his services over the long term, and we aim to further promote his good progress."
Evina added: "It's a great honour to get this chance at Bayern. "I want to continue to learn a lot in the next few years and want to repay the club's faith with good performances."
Man Utd unveil retro 2018-19 third kit
Manchester United have unveiled their third kit for the 2018-19 season, inspired by the royal blue worn as the club won the 1968 European Cup.United's new navy blue effort, according to Adidas, features "yarn spun from Parley Ocean Plastic", and will be worn for the first time on the club's pre-season tour of the United States.
United will spend two weeks in America, and will start their tour with a game against Mexican side Club America in Arizona, before taking on MLS side San Jose Earthquakes in Santa Clara. United will also face AC Milan, Liverpool and Real Madrid in the International Champions Cup.
The jersey is designed to create awarness of the problem of plastic in the ocean, while the gold detailing on the club crest pays homage to United's 4-1 win over Benfica under Sir Matt Busby at Wembley 50 years ago.
United's Group Managing Director, Richard Arnold, told the club's official website: "It’s great to be able to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the club’s first European Cup win. This jersey represents an important moment for our club - when we became the first English team to win the competition.
"Adidas continues to demonstrate how forward thinking they are. We are all acutely aware of the threat of plastic to the environment and we are delighted to be able to raise further awareness with this recycled kit, which I am sure the fans will love."
How much does the new Man Utd third kit cost?
The third shirt costs £64.95 ($106.84) for a men's replica, while a child's shirt costs £49.95 ($77.15) and a baby kit can be bought for £37.95 ($59.33). An authentic shirt, as worn by the players, costs £109.95.
All sizes of the new 2018-19 kit are available for purchase on Man Utd's official club shop, and are available from small to 4XL in the adult version.
Conte not scared by Sarri & Allegri rumours amid Chelsea's tough end to season
Antonio Conte says he has not been affected by rumours that there is a list of managers who want to replace him as Chelsea boss in the run up to their final games of the season.
The coach's future has been under scrutiny since before the season began, as he negotiated a pay-rise without extending his contract after winning the Premier League title. Conte's complaints over the club's transfer policy since then and a decline in performances prompted reports he will be fired in the summer.
Maurizio Sarri, Massimiliano Allegri and Leonardo Jardim have all been touted as potential replacements, but Conte says he is used to dealing with such speculation and is not thinking about the possibility of being sacked."I think this is normal. This is our job, our lives," he told reporters at Cobham Training Ground. "As you know very well, our job is very difficult because [your job] is in the balance every day. It's normal to have a lot of speculation around you.
"We have to live with this pressure and this type of situation. I have great respect for everyone. It's right to have this type of situation. I do my job. I trust a lot in my work, I trust a lot in my capacity and the capacity of my staff. This is the only important thing for me."It's not easy to win trophies. For a second season in a row, we're fighting to win something. Last season we won the league. This season we have the possibility to win another important trophy, and then we'll see.”
Conte said he hasn't thought about what will happen after the season ends, as he continues to try to establish the importance of winning their final Premier League game of the season, against Newcastle, before taking on Manchester United in the FA Cup final.
Holding an outside chance of securing a Champions League spot with a top four finish and a trophy still to play for, Conte has not had time to think about Chelsea's pre-season tour, which sees them playing in Australia, Poland and Sweden. He did, however, announce that he plans to attend the star-studded Andrea Pirlo testimonial game.“I probably will go to Milan for the game for Pirlo. Then we don't know, at the end of the season, if we have friendly games. I don't know anything about the end of our season. For sure, in the next week, the situation will be clearer.”
Chelsea's mid-week draw with Huddersfield has left them big outsiders for finishing in the top four as they need Brighton to win at Liverpool, while the Blues need three points from their visit to Rafael Benitez's side.Conte moved to assure fans that he is not looking ahead to the upcoming FA Cup final against Manchester United and that he will play as strong of a side as he possibly can.
“For sure, we have to try and finish this season and then start to think about the FA Cup final," he added. "We have to go game-by-game, step-by-step. Now, it's important for us to be focused on the Newcastle game."After that, we have five days to prepare the final. I want to win. I want to win every game. For this reason, I'll try and make the best decision, also for the game against Newcastle. I want to win and try and get the three points, to continue to have the possibility [of getting into the top four].
"If someone falls asleep in the last game, you must be ready. So, every decision I make will be to try and win. Probably I can change something, but not because I'm thinking about the FA Cup final. Only because some may be tired after two tough games in three days.”
Antonio Conte says he has not been affected by rumours that there is a list of managers who want to replace him as Chelsea boss in the run up to their final games of the season.
The coach's future has been under scrutiny since before the season began, as he negotiated a pay-rise without extending his contract after winning the Premier League title. Conte's complaints over the club's transfer policy since then and a decline in performances prompted reports he will be fired in the summer.
Maurizio Sarri, Massimiliano Allegri and Leonardo Jardim have all been touted as potential replacements, but Conte says he is used to dealing with such speculation and is not thinking about the possibility of being sacked."I think this is normal. This is our job, our lives," he told reporters at Cobham Training Ground. "As you know very well, our job is very difficult because [your job] is in the balance every day. It's normal to have a lot of speculation around you.
"We have to live with this pressure and this type of situation. I have great respect for everyone. It's right to have this type of situation. I do my job. I trust a lot in my work, I trust a lot in my capacity and the capacity of my staff. This is the only important thing for me."It's not easy to win trophies. For a second season in a row, we're fighting to win something. Last season we won the league. This season we have the possibility to win another important trophy, and then we'll see.”
Conte said he hasn't thought about what will happen after the season ends, as he continues to try to establish the importance of winning their final Premier League game of the season, against Newcastle, before taking on Manchester United in the FA Cup final.
Holding an outside chance of securing a Champions League spot with a top four finish and a trophy still to play for, Conte has not had time to think about Chelsea's pre-season tour, which sees them playing in Australia, Poland and Sweden. He did, however, announce that he plans to attend the star-studded Andrea Pirlo testimonial game.“I probably will go to Milan for the game for Pirlo. Then we don't know, at the end of the season, if we have friendly games. I don't know anything about the end of our season. For sure, in the next week, the situation will be clearer.”
Chelsea's mid-week draw with Huddersfield has left them big outsiders for finishing in the top four as they need Brighton to win at Liverpool, while the Blues need three points from their visit to Rafael Benitez's side.Conte moved to assure fans that he is not looking ahead to the upcoming FA Cup final against Manchester United and that he will play as strong of a side as he possibly can.
“For sure, we have to try and finish this season and then start to think about the FA Cup final," he added. "We have to go game-by-game, step-by-step. Now, it's important for us to be focused on the Newcastle game."After that, we have five days to prepare the final. I want to win. I want to win every game. For this reason, I'll try and make the best decision, also for the game against Newcastle. I want to win and try and get the three points, to continue to have the possibility [of getting into the top four].
"If someone falls asleep in the last game, you must be ready. So, every decision I make will be to try and win. Probably I can change something, but not because I'm thinking about the FA Cup final. Only because some may be tired after two tough games in three days.”
