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Real Madrid 0 Real Sociedad 2: Ten-man Los Blancos drop points again
Real Madrid dropped points for the second LaLiga match in succession as they slumped to a shock 2-0 defeat at home to struggling Real Sociedad on Sunday, seeing Lucas Vazquez sent off in the process.
Santiago Solari's men were looking to make the most of Atletico Madrid and Sevilla drawing earlier in the day but could now end the weekend 10 points adrift of Barcelona.Madrid were behind early on as Willian Jose converted a third-minute penalty and the home side were unable to pull level before half-time.
Despite Vazquez's red card for two bookings, Madrid remained well on top after the interval and should have had a penalty when goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli seemed to trip Vinicius Jr, but La Real escaped on that occasion and struck again through Ruben Pardo late on to end a run of four consecutive league defeats.Madrid found themselves with an uphill task as Willian Jose emphatically dispatched his spot-kick following Casemiro's clumsily foul on Mikel Merino.
The hosts created several chances in response – Karim Benzema just missing the bottom-right corner from close range in the 11th minute, shortly before Rulli denied Vinicius from a tight angle.
Luka Modric then forced Rulli into a smart stop down to his right from distance but they came closest just prior to the break – Vazquez's chipped cross-cum-shot coming back off the post.
Madrid turned things up a notch after the break, only for Vazquez to collect a second yellow card for a cynical foul on Merino.Soon afterwards, Vinicius was unlucky to not be given a penalty when he appeared to be fouled by the sprawling Rulli.
La Real took full advantage, hitting Madrid on the break six minutes from the end and Pardo - a second-half introduction - nodded in Willian Jose's cross to leave Madrid beaten.
Despite Vazquez's red card for two bookings, Madrid remained well on top after the interval and should have had a penalty when goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli seemed to trip Vinicius Jr, but La Real escaped on that occasion and struck again through Ruben Pardo late on to end a run of four consecutive league defeats.Madrid found themselves with an uphill task as Willian Jose emphatically dispatched his spot-kick following Casemiro's clumsily foul on Mikel Merino.
The hosts created several chances in response – Karim Benzema just missing the bottom-right corner from close range in the 11th minute, shortly before Rulli denied Vinicius from a tight angle.Luka Modric then forced Rulli into a smart stop down to his right from distance but they came closest just prior to the break – Vazquez's chipped cross-cum-shot coming back off the post.
Madrid turned things up a notch after the break, only for Vazquez to collect a second yellow card for a cynical foul on Merino.Soon afterwards, Vinicius was unlucky to not be given a penalty when he appeared to be fouled by the sprawling Rulli.
La Real took full advantage, hitting Madrid on the break six minutes from the end and Pardo - a second-half introduction - nodded in Willian Jose's cross to leave Madrid beaten.
also they had 30000 empty seats that day lol
Wolves 2 Liverpool 1: Jimenez and Neves down much-changed Reds
Ruben Neves' superb strike gave Wolves a 2-1 win over Liverpool in the FA Cup third round – making it back-to-back defeats for the Premier League leaders.Jurgen Klopp made nine changes to the XI that lost by the same scoreline to title rivals Manchester City last Thursday and they turned in a lethargic first-half display, trailing at the break to Raul Jimenez's opener.
Divock Origi found a fine equaliser but Portugal midfielder Neves raised the decibel levels significantly at Molineux with a decisive 55th-minute long ranger.
One of the players Klopp retained from the City defeat, Croatia centre-back Dejan Lovren, pulled up and had to be replaced in the sixth minute, meaning 16-year-old Dutch defender Ki-Jana Hoever became Liverpool's youngest player in FA Cup historyIt was a couple of senior men who let their manager down in the 38th minute when Diogo Jota stole possession from James Milner and burst past Fabinho.Jota played in Jimenez, who still had plenty to do but bore down on goal and steered an unerring finish beyond Simon Mignolet.
Liverpool pulled level six minutes into the second half when the hitherto anonymous Origi engineered a fraction of space on the edge of the box to smash home left footed.Parity did not last long as Neves found an even better finish by launching a typically dipping and swerving effort from 30 yards.
Jimenez had the chance to move Wolves closer to round four when he picked Hoever's pocket but could not adjust his feet after going around Mignolet.The run of spectacular second-half strikes continued as a sumptuous free-kick from Liverpool winger Xherdan Shaqiri hit the inside of the right post and somehow bounced to safety.
Klopp then called for the big guns, sending on Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino, but Wolves held on.
More to come!
Tottenham 1 Chelsea 0: Kane gives Spurs slender advantage
Harry Kane kept his cool from the penalty spot to give Tottenham a 1-0 win in the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final against rivals Chelsea.
Spurs surged to a thrilling 3-1 win in the most recent Premier League meeting between the sides but Wembley played host to a more cagey contest on this occasion.Kepa Arrizabalaga's ill-advised challenge on Kane allowed Tottenham to claim their slender advantage ahead of the return clash, as the England captain converted from 12 yards with typical aplomb.
N'Golo Kante hit the post for Chelsea, who controlled large spells of the second-half only to gain little change out of a miserly Spurs backline.Callum Hudson-Odoi brought a vibrancy to the Chelsea attack and forced Paulo Gazzaniga into a routine save before life became more complicated for the Spurs goalkeeper's opposite number.
Kepa hared off his line as Kane chased Toby Alderweireld's raking ball and, once a VAR referral confirmed the England captain was onside, a penalty and booking were inevitable.Chelsea's number one guessed correctly but could not redeem himself as Kane's spot-kick beat him for pace.
The post twice came to Tottenham's aid late in the first half, with Kante side-footing Marcos Alonso's cross against Gazzaniga's right-hand upright before Hudson-Odoi's deflected cross also bounced to safety.Kane was unable to get the better of Kepa from further afield in the 52nd-minute – the Spain international making a superb stop from his 25-yard piledriver.
Kante tested Gazzaniga from similar range before Blues defender Andreas Christensen missed a glorious chance when Ross Barkley flicked on Eden Hazard's corner.
Tottenham's back-up goalkeeper dangerously fumbled an 86th-minute cross from Hazard, while a crunching stoppage-time challenge from Danny Rose left the full-back with an apparent hamstring injury as Mauricio Pochettino's men held out.
Harry Kane kept his cool from the penalty spot to give Tottenham a 1-0 win in the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final against rivals Chelsea.
Spurs surged to a thrilling 3-1 win in the most recent Premier League meeting between the sides but Wembley played host to a more cagey contest on this occasion.Kepa Arrizabalaga's ill-advised challenge on Kane allowed Tottenham to claim their slender advantage ahead of the return clash, as the England captain converted from 12 yards with typical aplomb.
N'Golo Kante hit the post for Chelsea, who controlled large spells of the second-half only to gain little change out of a miserly Spurs backline.Callum Hudson-Odoi brought a vibrancy to the Chelsea attack and forced Paulo Gazzaniga into a routine save before life became more complicated for the Spurs goalkeeper's opposite number.
Kepa hared off his line as Kane chased Toby Alderweireld's raking ball and, once a VAR referral confirmed the England captain was onside, a penalty and booking were inevitable.Chelsea's number one guessed correctly but could not redeem himself as Kane's spot-kick beat him for pace.
The post twice came to Tottenham's aid late in the first half, with Kante side-footing Marcos Alonso's cross against Gazzaniga's right-hand upright before Hudson-Odoi's deflected cross also bounced to safety.Kane was unable to get the better of Kepa from further afield in the 52nd-minute – the Spain international making a superb stop from his 25-yard piledriver.
Kante tested Gazzaniga from similar range before Blues defender Andreas Christensen missed a glorious chance when Ross Barkley flicked on Eden Hazard's corner.
Tottenham's back-up goalkeeper dangerously fumbled an 86th-minute cross from Hazard, while a crunching stoppage-time challenge from Danny Rose left the full-back with an apparent hamstring injury as Mauricio Pochettino's men held out.
Salah retains CAF African Player of the Year gong
Mohamed Salah has been named African Player of the Year for the second time in succession.Salah defended his crown after scoring 44 goals for Liverpool and Egypt in 2018.He finished as the 2017-18 Premier League Golden Boot winner with 32 goals.
Liverpool team-mate Sadio Mane and Arsenal's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang also made the three-man shortlist for the award.
The nominees for the main award made up the front three in CAF's Africa Best XI of the year, with Guinea's Naby Keita providing further Liverpool representation in a midfield completed by Atletico Madrid and Ghana's Thomas Partey and Manchester City and Algeria's Riyad Mahrez.
The back-four was split between Serie A and the Premier League, with Juventus and Morocco's Mehdi Benatia alongside Napoli's Kalidou Koulibaly – an international colleague of Mane's.
Ivory Coast duo Serge Aurier and Eric Bailly won approval thanks, in part, to their displays for Tottenham and Manchester United, while Uganda's Denis Onyango of South African club Mamelodi Sundowns was recognised as Africa's best goalkeeper.Salah's second Player of the Year prize means that Liverpool players have now won the award on a total of three occasions.
El-Hadji Diouf was the previous Red to receive the honour prior to Salah, lifting the CAF award in 2002 in recognition of his exploits at that year's World Cup with Senegal.Yaya Toure and Samuel Eto'o, meanwhile, remain the all-time most successful players in the continent, having won Player of the Year four times each.The Ivorian managed the feat in four consecutive years between 2011 and 2014, while Eto'o won the prize in 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2010.
Mohamed Salah has been named African Player of the Year for the second time in succession.Salah defended his crown after scoring 44 goals for Liverpool and Egypt in 2018.He finished as the 2017-18 Premier League Golden Boot winner with 32 goals.
Liverpool team-mate Sadio Mane and Arsenal's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang also made the three-man shortlist for the award.
The nominees for the main award made up the front three in CAF's Africa Best XI of the year, with Guinea's Naby Keita providing further Liverpool representation in a midfield completed by Atletico Madrid and Ghana's Thomas Partey and Manchester City and Algeria's Riyad Mahrez.
The back-four was split between Serie A and the Premier League, with Juventus and Morocco's Mehdi Benatia alongside Napoli's Kalidou Koulibaly – an international colleague of Mane's.
Ivory Coast duo Serge Aurier and Eric Bailly won approval thanks, in part, to their displays for Tottenham and Manchester United, while Uganda's Denis Onyango of South African club Mamelodi Sundowns was recognised as Africa's best goalkeeper.Salah's second Player of the Year prize means that Liverpool players have now won the award on a total of three occasions.
El-Hadji Diouf was the previous Red to receive the honour prior to Salah, lifting the CAF award in 2002 in recognition of his exploits at that year's World Cup with Senegal.Yaya Toure and Samuel Eto'o, meanwhile, remain the all-time most successful players in the continent, having won Player of the Year four times each.The Ivorian managed the feat in four consecutive years between 2011 and 2014, while Eto'o won the prize in 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2010.
Barcelona snap up teenage defender Todibo from Toulouse
Barcelona have struck a deal which will see 19-year-old defender Jean-Clair Todibo make his way to Camp Nou as a free agent when his contract at Toulouse expires.
The highly-rated teenager will officially link up with the La Liga champions on July 1.Barca have moved quickly to secure his services after seeing the youngster freed to enter into pre-contract talks as his current deal runs down.
A versatile operator who can fill in across the defensive line or in the middle of the park, Todibo is considered to be one of the most promising talents in European football.He has already represented France at U20 level and big things are expected of him in the future.
Upon reaching an agreement to bring in a man they hope to see flourish in Catalunya, a statement released on Barca’s official website read: “Todibo is a tall, right-footed defender who can play at centre back and also in the centre of the midfield.“At the youth level he often featured in the middle of the field given his ability on the ball.
“One of his best qualities is his physical presence and his ability in the air.“At just 19 years of age, the young talent comes to FC Barcelona as one of the most promising players in European football in his position.”
A versatile operator who can fill in across the defensive line or in the middle of the park, Todibo is considered to be one of the most promising talents in European football.He has already represented France at U20 level and big things are expected of him in the future.
Upon reaching an agreement to bring in a man they hope to see flourish in Catalunya, a statement released on Barca’s official website read: “Todibo is a tall, right-footed defender who can play at centre back and also in the centre of the midfield.
“At the youth level he often featured in the middle of the field given his ability on the ball.“One of his best qualities is his physical presence and his ability in the air.“At just 19 years of age, the young talent comes to FC Barcelona as one of the most promising players in European football in his position.”
Todibo has also recorded his first senior goal, with the target found as he netted a late equaliser in a 1-1 draw at Rennes in September.He is now set to add much-needed depth to the defensive ranks at Camp Nou.Barca have seen Samuel Umtiti struggle with knee problems this season, while Thomas Vermaelen’s fitness woes have continued and Gerard Pique will be 32 before the current campaign comes to a close.
Barcelona have struck a deal which will see 19-year-old defender Jean-Clair Todibo make his way to Camp Nou as a free agent when his contract at Toulouse expires.
The highly-rated teenager will officially link up with the La Liga champions on July 1.Barca have moved quickly to secure his services after seeing the youngster freed to enter into pre-contract talks as his current deal runs down.
A versatile operator who can fill in across the defensive line or in the middle of the park, Todibo is considered to be one of the most promising talents in European football.He has already represented France at U20 level and big things are expected of him in the future.
Upon reaching an agreement to bring in a man they hope to see flourish in Catalunya, a statement released on Barca’s official website read: “Todibo is a tall, right-footed defender who can play at centre back and also in the centre of the midfield.“At the youth level he often featured in the middle of the field given his ability on the ball.
“One of his best qualities is his physical presence and his ability in the air.“At just 19 years of age, the young talent comes to FC Barcelona as one of the most promising players in European football in his position.”
A versatile operator who can fill in across the defensive line or in the middle of the park, Todibo is considered to be one of the most promising talents in European football.He has already represented France at U20 level and big things are expected of him in the future.
Upon reaching an agreement to bring in a man they hope to see flourish in Catalunya, a statement released on Barca’s official website read: “Todibo is a tall, right-footed defender who can play at centre back and also in the centre of the midfield.
“At the youth level he often featured in the middle of the field given his ability on the ball.“One of his best qualities is his physical presence and his ability in the air.“At just 19 years of age, the young talent comes to FC Barcelona as one of the most promising players in European football in his position.”
Todibo has also recorded his first senior goal, with the target found as he netted a late equaliser in a 1-1 draw at Rennes in September.He is now set to add much-needed depth to the defensive ranks at Camp Nou.Barca have seen Samuel Umtiti struggle with knee problems this season, while Thomas Vermaelen’s fitness woes have continued and Gerard Pique will be 32 before the current campaign comes to a close.
'Money is no issue' – Benfica president dreaming of Mourinho
Benfica president Luis Filipe Vieira insisted "money is no issue" as the Portuguese giants try to lure Jose Mourinho to Estadio da Luz.
Mourinho is without a job after he was sacked by Premier League side Manchester United last month, ending his two-and-a-half-year tenure at Old Trafford.
The Portuguese boss – who has been linked with Real Madrid and Inter – made a name for himself at Benfica's rivals Porto, where he won the 2003-04 Champions League and two Primeira Liga titles before moving to Chelsea.
However, Mourinho's managerial career began at Benfica when he replaced Jupp Heynckes after the fourth week of the Primeira Liga before resigning just nine games later following a changed in the club's presidency.Now, after axing head coach Rui Vitoria last week, Vieira is dreaming of bringing Mourinho to Benfica all these years later.
"For now, Bruno Lage is the coach of Benfica," Vieira told Portuguese broadcaster SIC. "There will be news next week." When asked about Mourinho, Vieira said: "I am his friend. Who would not like to have Mourinho? [But] I have not talked to him."If he says yes tomorrow, he'll be here at the drop of a hat. Money is no issue for Benfica.
Benfica are third in Portugal's top flight, seven points adrift of leaders Porto after 16 rounds.The club are also set to begin play in the Europa League knockout stages as the Portuguese side is set to take on Galatasaray after finishing third behind Bayern Munich and Ajax in Champions League play.
Benfica president Luis Filipe Vieira insisted "money is no issue" as the Portuguese giants try to lure Jose Mourinho to Estadio da Luz.
Mourinho is without a job after he was sacked by Premier League side Manchester United last month, ending his two-and-a-half-year tenure at Old Trafford.
The Portuguese boss – who has been linked with Real Madrid and Inter – made a name for himself at Benfica's rivals Porto, where he won the 2003-04 Champions League and two Primeira Liga titles before moving to Chelsea.
However, Mourinho's managerial career began at Benfica when he replaced Jupp Heynckes after the fourth week of the Primeira Liga before resigning just nine games later following a changed in the club's presidency.Now, after axing head coach Rui Vitoria last week, Vieira is dreaming of bringing Mourinho to Benfica all these years later.
"For now, Bruno Lage is the coach of Benfica," Vieira told Portuguese broadcaster SIC. "There will be news next week." When asked about Mourinho, Vieira said: "I am his friend. Who would not like to have Mourinho? [But] I have not talked to him."If he says yes tomorrow, he'll be here at the drop of a hat. Money is no issue for Benfica.
Benfica are third in Portugal's top flight, seven points adrift of leaders Porto after 16 rounds.The club are also set to begin play in the Europa League knockout stages as the Portuguese side is set to take on Galatasaray after finishing third behind Bayern Munich and Ajax in Champions League play.
Manchester City 9 Burton Albion 0: Jesus grabs four as City cruise past Brewers
Gabriel Jesus grabbed four goals as Manchester City all but secured their place in the EFL Cup final with a crushing 9-0 first-leg victory over Burton Albion on Wednesday.
The Premier League champions have now put 16 goals past lower-league opposition in the past four days, Pep Guardiola's men having thrashed Rotherham United 7-0 in the FA Cup on Sunday.Kevin De Bruyne's first headed goal in English football set the hosts on their way, with Jesus adding a quickfire double before Oleksandr Zinchenko fortuitously opened his City account.
Jesus took his tally to four either side of Phil Foden's tap-in, before Kyle Walker and Riyad Mahrez completed a miserable night for Burton's cup heroes.
It took City five minutes to unlock the Burton defence, David Silva's pinpoint pass picking out De Bruyne's run and the Belgium international made no mistake with his header.
Despite falling behind Burton rallied and Marcus Harness should have equalised in the 12th minute, but Saturday's hat-trick hero blazed Lucas Akins' cross over the bar.
City's control of proceedings was never under threat, though, and in the space of seven minutes the hosts were four goals ahead as Jesus and Zinchenko struck.Having pounced on a loose ball after Leroy Sane's shot was saved by Bradley Collins, Jesus doubled his tally from Silva's pass – the striker taking his time before slotting it in off the post.
City's fourth was harsh on the visitors as Zinchenko's attempted cross looped over Collins, but there was no doubting the quality of Jesus' hat-trick goal as he converted Mahrez's cross to the back post.
Four minutes after replacing the impressive De Bruyne, Foden had his second Etihad goal in as many games, the youngster profiting after Jesus had been held up by Burton's defenders.Jesus would not be denied a fourth moments later, though, as Sane beautifully controlled Mahrez's pass on his chest before finding the striker, who applied the finishing touch.
After setting up Walker for City's eighth, Mahrez completed Burton's misery with a goal of his own, the Algeria international poking the ball past Collins to round out a one-sided semi-final encounter.
Gabriel Jesus grabbed four goals as Manchester City all but secured their place in the EFL Cup final with a crushing 9-0 first-leg victory over Burton Albion on Wednesday.
The Premier League champions have now put 16 goals past lower-league opposition in the past four days, Pep Guardiola's men having thrashed Rotherham United 7-0 in the FA Cup on Sunday.Kevin De Bruyne's first headed goal in English football set the hosts on their way, with Jesus adding a quickfire double before Oleksandr Zinchenko fortuitously opened his City account.
Jesus took his tally to four either side of Phil Foden's tap-in, before Kyle Walker and Riyad Mahrez completed a miserable night for Burton's cup heroes.
It took City five minutes to unlock the Burton defence, David Silva's pinpoint pass picking out De Bruyne's run and the Belgium international made no mistake with his header.
Despite falling behind Burton rallied and Marcus Harness should have equalised in the 12th minute, but Saturday's hat-trick hero blazed Lucas Akins' cross over the bar.
City's control of proceedings was never under threat, though, and in the space of seven minutes the hosts were four goals ahead as Jesus and Zinchenko struck.Having pounced on a loose ball after Leroy Sane's shot was saved by Bradley Collins, Jesus doubled his tally from Silva's pass – the striker taking his time before slotting it in off the post.
City's fourth was harsh on the visitors as Zinchenko's attempted cross looped over Collins, but there was no doubting the quality of Jesus' hat-trick goal as he converted Mahrez's cross to the back post.
Four minutes after replacing the impressive De Bruyne, Foden had his second Etihad goal in as many games, the youngster profiting after Jesus had been held up by Burton's defenders.Jesus would not be denied a fourth moments later, though, as Sane beautifully controlled Mahrez's pass on his chest before finding the striker, who applied the finishing touch.
After setting up Walker for City's eighth, Mahrez completed Burton's misery with a goal of his own, the Algeria international poking the ball past Collins to round out a one-sided semi-final encounter.
Paris Saint-Germain 1 Guingamp 2: Penalty drama as holders exit Coupe de la Ligue
Paris Saint-Germain's Coupe de la Ligue dominance came to a dramatic end as Marcus Thuram overcame one penalty miss to convert another at the death in Guingamp's eventful 2-1 away triumph.Having squandered a chance to put the Ligue 1 strugglers ahead from the spot, Thuram later held his nerve to convert the winner from the spot in the 93rd minute.
PSG, the tournament's champions in each of the previous five campaigns, had earlier gone ahead in the 62nd minute, Neymar breaking the deadlock just over a minute after Thuram's initial miss.
But a second Guingamp spot-kick was dispatched by substitute Yeni N'Gbakoto with nine minutes left and Thomas Tuchel's men were then sensationally dumped out by Thuram's decisive strike in the final moments.
The first half of Wednesday's quarter-final provided little indication as to the see-sawing events that followed as Guingamp's deep defence encountered few scares outside of the inventive, looped volley from Kylian Mbappe that shaved the post in the third minute.
Thomas Tuchel turned to Marco Verratti and Edinson Cavani at half-time and his moves almost paid immediate dividends, the latter heading Neymar's cross straight at Karl-Johan Johnsson.
The decisive period in the match appeared to come when Thomas Meunier - making amends for the trip on Ludovic Blas that sent Thuram to the spot - crossed superbly for Neymar to head in and compound the Guingamp forward's miss that had seen him fire over from 12 yards.
But Cavani's lazy connection with Moussa Diaby's low delivery prevented the hosts from going two ahead and PSG were their own enemies once more in the 81st minute, Juan Bernat's tangle with Marcus Coco allowing N'Gbakoto to restore parity by sending Alphonse Areola the wrong way.
Thuram then surprisingly stepped up to complete both an incredible comeback and his own personal redemption, dusting himself off after being fouled by Thilo Kehrer and condemning PSG to just their second competitive loss of the season, Areola getting an arm to his effort but unable to keep it out.
Paris Saint-Germain's Coupe de la Ligue dominance came to a dramatic end as Marcus Thuram overcame one penalty miss to convert another at the death in Guingamp's eventful 2-1 away triumph.Having squandered a chance to put the Ligue 1 strugglers ahead from the spot, Thuram later held his nerve to convert the winner from the spot in the 93rd minute.
PSG, the tournament's champions in each of the previous five campaigns, had earlier gone ahead in the 62nd minute, Neymar breaking the deadlock just over a minute after Thuram's initial miss.
But a second Guingamp spot-kick was dispatched by substitute Yeni N'Gbakoto with nine minutes left and Thomas Tuchel's men were then sensationally dumped out by Thuram's decisive strike in the final moments.
The first half of Wednesday's quarter-final provided little indication as to the see-sawing events that followed as Guingamp's deep defence encountered few scares outside of the inventive, looped volley from Kylian Mbappe that shaved the post in the third minute.
Thomas Tuchel turned to Marco Verratti and Edinson Cavani at half-time and his moves almost paid immediate dividends, the latter heading Neymar's cross straight at Karl-Johan Johnsson.
The decisive period in the match appeared to come when Thomas Meunier - making amends for the trip on Ludovic Blas that sent Thuram to the spot - crossed superbly for Neymar to head in and compound the Guingamp forward's miss that had seen him fire over from 12 yards.
But Cavani's lazy connection with Moussa Diaby's low delivery prevented the hosts from going two ahead and PSG were their own enemies once more in the 81st minute, Juan Bernat's tangle with Marcus Coco allowing N'Gbakoto to restore parity by sending Alphonse Areola the wrong way.
Thuram then surprisingly stepped up to complete both an incredible comeback and his own personal redemption, dusting himself off after being fouled by Thilo Kehrer and condemning PSG to just their second competitive loss of the season, Areola getting an arm to his effort but unable to keep it out.
Real Madrid 3 Leganes 0: Ramos reaches 100 goals to earn Copa del Rey advantage
Sergio Ramos scored the 100th goal of his career as Real Madrid battled to a 3-0 home win over Leganes in the first leg of their Copa del Rey last-16 tie.Madrid, beaten 2-0 at home by Real Sociedad in LaLiga on Sunday, were again unconvincing for large periods of Wednesday's match at the Santiago Bernabeu but pulled through after the break.
Captain Ramos gave them the lead shortly before half-time with a penalty, taking his tally for club and country to three figures after Alvaro Odriozola was fouled by Gerard Gumbau.
With Leganes tiring in the second period, Lucas Vazquez capitalised on a defensive mistake before Vinicius Junior cushioned in a low volley to put Madrid in a strong position ahead of the second leg.
Madrid had the first good chance in the 15th minute but Karim Benzema could not get enough power on a header from Odriozola's cross to trouble Ivan Cuellar, the striker then rifling over when found by Vazquez.
Martin Braithwaite headed a corner straight at Keylor Navas, deputising for injured Thibaut Courtois, and the striker failed to hit the target with another good chance soon after.
Braithwaite was proving a handful and the Dane, making his debut after joining on loan from Middlesbrough, forced a fine save from Navas after beating Benzema to Nabil El Zhar's cross.
But Madrid took the lead from the spot in the 44th minute, Ramos converting a penalty awarded when Gumbau clumsily felled Odriozola as the full-back ran into the box.
Vazquez doubled the hosts' lead in the 68th minute. Benzema's pressing won the ball back deep in Leganes' territory after Unai Bustinza's poor pass, with Vinicius unselfishly squaring for Vazquez to tuck the ball home.Vinicius completed the scoring with 13 minutes remaining, beautifully finishing an Odriozola cross to net for his second consecutive appearance in the Copa del Rey.
With Leganes tiring in the second period, Lucas Vazquez capitalised on a defensive mistake before Vinicius Junior cushioned in a low volley to put Madrid in a strong position ahead of the second leg.
Madrid had the first good chance in the 15th minute but Karim Benzema could not get enough power on a header from Odriozola's cross to trouble Ivan Cuellar, the striker then rifling over when found by Vazquez.Martin Braithwaite headed a corner straight at Keylor Navas, deputising for injured Thibaut Courtois, and the striker failed to hit the target with another good chance soon after.
Braithwaite was proving a handful and the Dane, making his debut after joining on loan from Middlesbrough, forced a fine save from Navas after beating Benzema to Nabil El Zhar's cross.But Madrid took the lead from the spot in the 44th minute, Ramos converting a penalty awarded when Gumbau clumsily felled Odriozola as the full-back ran into the box.
Vazquez doubled the hosts' lead in the 68th minute. Benzema's pressing won the ball back deep in Leganes' territory after Unai Bustinza's poor pass, with Vinicius unselfishly squaring for Vazquez to tuck the ball home.
Vinicius completed the scoring with 13 minutes remaining, beautifully finishing an Odriozola cross to net for his second consecutive appearance in the Copa del Rey.
Sergio Ramos scored the 100th goal of his career as Real Madrid battled to a 3-0 home win over Leganes in the first leg of their Copa del Rey last-16 tie.Madrid, beaten 2-0 at home by Real Sociedad in LaLiga on Sunday, were again unconvincing for large periods of Wednesday's match at the Santiago Bernabeu but pulled through after the break.
Captain Ramos gave them the lead shortly before half-time with a penalty, taking his tally for club and country to three figures after Alvaro Odriozola was fouled by Gerard Gumbau.
With Leganes tiring in the second period, Lucas Vazquez capitalised on a defensive mistake before Vinicius Junior cushioned in a low volley to put Madrid in a strong position ahead of the second leg.
Madrid had the first good chance in the 15th minute but Karim Benzema could not get enough power on a header from Odriozola's cross to trouble Ivan Cuellar, the striker then rifling over when found by Vazquez.
Martin Braithwaite headed a corner straight at Keylor Navas, deputising for injured Thibaut Courtois, and the striker failed to hit the target with another good chance soon after.
Braithwaite was proving a handful and the Dane, making his debut after joining on loan from Middlesbrough, forced a fine save from Navas after beating Benzema to Nabil El Zhar's cross.
But Madrid took the lead from the spot in the 44th minute, Ramos converting a penalty awarded when Gumbau clumsily felled Odriozola as the full-back ran into the box.
Vazquez doubled the hosts' lead in the 68th minute. Benzema's pressing won the ball back deep in Leganes' territory after Unai Bustinza's poor pass, with Vinicius unselfishly squaring for Vazquez to tuck the ball home.Vinicius completed the scoring with 13 minutes remaining, beautifully finishing an Odriozola cross to net for his second consecutive appearance in the Copa del Rey.
With Leganes tiring in the second period, Lucas Vazquez capitalised on a defensive mistake before Vinicius Junior cushioned in a low volley to put Madrid in a strong position ahead of the second leg.
Madrid had the first good chance in the 15th minute but Karim Benzema could not get enough power on a header from Odriozola's cross to trouble Ivan Cuellar, the striker then rifling over when found by Vazquez.Martin Braithwaite headed a corner straight at Keylor Navas, deputising for injured Thibaut Courtois, and the striker failed to hit the target with another good chance soon after.
Braithwaite was proving a handful and the Dane, making his debut after joining on loan from Middlesbrough, forced a fine save from Navas after beating Benzema to Nabil El Zhar's cross.But Madrid took the lead from the spot in the 44th minute, Ramos converting a penalty awarded when Gumbau clumsily felled Odriozola as the full-back ran into the box.
Vazquez doubled the hosts' lead in the 68th minute. Benzema's pressing won the ball back deep in Leganes' territory after Unai Bustinza's poor pass, with Vinicius unselfishly squaring for Vazquez to tuck the ball home.
Vinicius completed the scoring with 13 minutes remaining, beautifully finishing an Odriozola cross to net for his second consecutive appearance in the Copa del Rey.
Girona 1 Atletico Madrid 1: Griezmann streak continues in Copa del Rey draw
Antoine Griezmann continued his goalscoring streak as Atletico Madrid drew 1-1 at Girona to edge them towards the last eight of the Copa del Rey.Diego Simeone's side have not beaten Girona since they were promoted to LaLiga in 2017, but the visitors looked prime to end that run when Griezmann fortuitously put Atletico into the lead after nine minutes with his seventh goal in eight games.
However, the hosts hit back 25 minutes later as Anthony Lozano netted only his second goal of the season on a night when he was a thorn in Atletico's side.
Simeone will fancy his chances of guiding Atletico to a seventh consecutive appearance in the quarter-finals given they are unbeaten at home this season, but Girona will stand a chance in the second leg if they put in the kind of spirited display that saw them fight back to earn a draw.
The hosts' good start turned sour when Griezmann met Nikola Kalinic's neat pass with a side-footed first-time shot from just inside the box that went in off goalkeeper Gorka Iraizoz.
Girona hit back when Aleix Garcia's clever ball picked out Lozano, who took a touch and stroked a dipping shot towards goal that Antonio Adan could only help into the net with a punch that lacked the strength to push it over the crossbar.
Lozano then crashed a header onto the underside of the bar, only to see it bounce back out as Atletico ended the half fortunate to be level.Kalinic missed two chances early in the second half, heading straight at Iraizoz with the first before turning the Girona defence and blazing over the target from 12 yards with the second.
Seydou Doumbia had plenty to aim at when the ball fell to him on the edge of the six-yard box but he scuffed his shot in what proved to be Girona's last clear-cut chance of the evening, leaving them needing to spring a surprise in Madrid next week.
Antoine Griezmann continued his goalscoring streak as Atletico Madrid drew 1-1 at Girona to edge them towards the last eight of the Copa del Rey.Diego Simeone's side have not beaten Girona since they were promoted to LaLiga in 2017, but the visitors looked prime to end that run when Griezmann fortuitously put Atletico into the lead after nine minutes with his seventh goal in eight games.
However, the hosts hit back 25 minutes later as Anthony Lozano netted only his second goal of the season on a night when he was a thorn in Atletico's side.
Simeone will fancy his chances of guiding Atletico to a seventh consecutive appearance in the quarter-finals given they are unbeaten at home this season, but Girona will stand a chance in the second leg if they put in the kind of spirited display that saw them fight back to earn a draw.
The hosts' good start turned sour when Griezmann met Nikola Kalinic's neat pass with a side-footed first-time shot from just inside the box that went in off goalkeeper Gorka Iraizoz.
Girona hit back when Aleix Garcia's clever ball picked out Lozano, who took a touch and stroked a dipping shot towards goal that Antonio Adan could only help into the net with a punch that lacked the strength to push it over the crossbar.
Lozano then crashed a header onto the underside of the bar, only to see it bounce back out as Atletico ended the half fortunate to be level.Kalinic missed two chances early in the second half, heading straight at Iraizoz with the first before turning the Girona defence and blazing over the target from 12 yards with the second.
Seydou Doumbia had plenty to aim at when the ball fell to him on the edge of the six-yard box but he scuffed his shot in what proved to be Girona's last clear-cut chance of the evening, leaving them needing to spring a surprise in Madrid next week.
Confident, happy Man Utd 'bouncing around the place' - CarrickManchester United players are "bouncing around the place" following their sudden improvement under caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, assistant Michael Carrick says.United are on a five-game winning streak since Solskjaer was appointed in December after Jose Mourinho was sacked.
The Old Trafford side have scored 16 goals and conceded three under the Norwegian's impressive start, while he has been credited with bringing happiness back to the club by goalkeeper Sergio Romero.
Manchester United players are "bouncing around the place" following their sudden improvement under caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, assistant Michael Carrick says.United are on a five-game winning streak since Solskjaer was appointed in December after Jose Mourinho was sacked.
The Old Trafford side have scored 16 goals and conceded three under the Norwegian's impressive start, while he has been credited with bringing happiness back to the club by goalkeeper Sergio Romero.
“It’s very different! It’s a big change and the working hours are very different now, something you probably take for granted as a player," he said. "You just turn up when everything is done for you.
"So I’m on the other side and I’m really enjoying it. The preparation and analysis side of things, and trying to get the best out of the players. It’s a challenge because it’s new, but I’m really enjoying it.”
United are back in action on Sunday with an away game against Mauricio Pochettino's Tottenham, who sit third in the English top flight.
Gimenez hopes 'partner' Godin stays on with Atletico Madrid amid Inter links
Jose Gimenez hopes to be able to play alongside Diego Godin at Atletico Madrid for a long time as the veteran defender continues to be linked with Inter.Godin is out of contract at the end of the season and the Uruguay centre-back has been tipped to join Serie A outfit Inter in July.
The 32-year-old, who turned down a move to Premier League giants Manchester United at the start of the campaign, has called Atletico home since arriving from LaLiga rivals Villarreal in 2010.
And Gimenez wants international and club team-mate Godin to remain in the Spanish capital."There is a lot of talk of team-mates and I want everyone to do well in their careers," Gimenez said following Atletico's 1-1 draw at Girona in the first leg of their Copa del Rey last-16 tie on Wednesday."But I want them with me because they are great players and we need them.
"I hope everyone stays, I love them all personally. The club also loves them and will do their best for everyone. I hope Diego is my partner for a long time."
Gimenez is not alone in wanting to Godin to stay with Atleti either.
Ahead of Wednesday's match midfielder Koke also backed the defender to stay on, saying he believes the club will be able to reach an agreement with the Uruguayan and that Godin would want to stay around."Godin? I think he will want to stay on with us," he told Marca . "He will have to talk with the club but I am sure they will find an agreement.
"Many clubs are interested in Atletico Madrid players, it is also up to the player to choose." Godin played a major part in Atletico’s La Liga triumph in 2013-14 and had been regarded as one of the best defenders in Europe as part of Diego Simeone’s side.Atletico, having earned 1-1 draws in each of their first two matches of 2019, return to the pitch Sunday to take on Levante in La Liga.
Jose Gimenez hopes to be able to play alongside Diego Godin at Atletico Madrid for a long time as the veteran defender continues to be linked with Inter.Godin is out of contract at the end of the season and the Uruguay centre-back has been tipped to join Serie A outfit Inter in July.
The 32-year-old, who turned down a move to Premier League giants Manchester United at the start of the campaign, has called Atletico home since arriving from LaLiga rivals Villarreal in 2010.
And Gimenez wants international and club team-mate Godin to remain in the Spanish capital."There is a lot of talk of team-mates and I want everyone to do well in their careers," Gimenez said following Atletico's 1-1 draw at Girona in the first leg of their Copa del Rey last-16 tie on Wednesday."But I want them with me because they are great players and we need them.
"I hope everyone stays, I love them all personally. The club also loves them and will do their best for everyone. I hope Diego is my partner for a long time."
Gimenez is not alone in wanting to Godin to stay with Atleti either.
Ahead of Wednesday's match midfielder Koke also backed the defender to stay on, saying he believes the club will be able to reach an agreement with the Uruguayan and that Godin would want to stay around."Godin? I think he will want to stay on with us," he told Marca . "He will have to talk with the club but I am sure they will find an agreement.
"Many clubs are interested in Atletico Madrid players, it is also up to the player to choose." Godin played a major part in Atletico’s La Liga triumph in 2013-14 and had been regarded as one of the best defenders in Europe as part of Diego Simeone’s side.Atletico, having earned 1-1 draws in each of their first two matches of 2019, return to the pitch Sunday to take on Levante in La Liga.
Morata to Atletico? Simeone refuses to 'confirm or deny anything'
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone was coy when asked about his club’s interest in disgruntled Chelsea forward Alvaro Morata, saying he could not “confirm or deny anything” about the transfer market.
Morata has been linked with a return to La Liga this winter, with Sevilla among the clubs to have registered and interest in the former Real Madrid forward, though the club has admitted that a deal for the Spain international would be "very, very complicated".Goal reported on Wednesday that Simeone’s side have joined the race to land the 26-year-old, with a potential loan deal being discussed in the coming days.
But Simeone was not giving anything away following his side's 1-1 draw with Girona in a Copa del Rey round of 16 first leg tie on Wednesday."The only thing I'm thinking about is the upcoming match against Levante," Simeone told reporters.
"I don't speak about players that aren't with us, only those that are. "I can't confirm or deny anything because coaches wait to see what the club can do."Some players want more minutes, some could be sold by the club, some could arrive. We need to wait until January 31."
Speaking of Wednesday’s match, Simeone says he felt Girona made life difficult on his side and that the tie was still there for the taking for either club."Girona are a strong side who are doing things well. In Spanish football, every team you face makes things difficult for you," he said."The tie is open, with a 50 per cent chance for both sides. We'll see what happens next week."
The manager also felt Atletico, who host Levante in La Liga on Sunday, improved in the second half at the Estadi Montilivi."It was a dynamic match between Girona, who tried to hurt us on the break, and us," he said."We tried to play in their half of the pitch. We played well in the second half."
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone was coy when asked about his club’s interest in disgruntled Chelsea forward Alvaro Morata, saying he could not “confirm or deny anything” about the transfer market.
Morata has been linked with a return to La Liga this winter, with Sevilla among the clubs to have registered and interest in the former Real Madrid forward, though the club has admitted that a deal for the Spain international would be "very, very complicated".Goal reported on Wednesday that Simeone’s side have joined the race to land the 26-year-old, with a potential loan deal being discussed in the coming days.
But Simeone was not giving anything away following his side's 1-1 draw with Girona in a Copa del Rey round of 16 first leg tie on Wednesday."The only thing I'm thinking about is the upcoming match against Levante," Simeone told reporters.
"I don't speak about players that aren't with us, only those that are. "I can't confirm or deny anything because coaches wait to see what the club can do."Some players want more minutes, some could be sold by the club, some could arrive. We need to wait until January 31."
Speaking of Wednesday’s match, Simeone says he felt Girona made life difficult on his side and that the tie was still there for the taking for either club."Girona are a strong side who are doing things well. In Spanish football, every team you face makes things difficult for you," he said."The tie is open, with a 50 per cent chance for both sides. We'll see what happens next week."
The manager also felt Atletico, who host Levante in La Liga on Sunday, improved in the second half at the Estadi Montilivi."It was a dynamic match between Girona, who tried to hurt us on the break, and us," he said."We tried to play in their half of the pitch. We played well in the second half."
Levante 2 Barcelona 1: Under-strength Blaugrana beaten in Copa del Rey
Barcelona are at risk of a last-16 exit from the Copa del Rey after a 2-1 first-leg loss at Levante left their trophy defence in doubt.Memories of the 5-4 thriller at Ciutat de Valencia last season that cost Ernesto Valverde's men an unbeaten LaLiga campaign came flooding back during an end-to-end first half in which Levante thrived.
Jeison Murillo and Chumi, afforded opportunities amid a raft of Barca changes, floundered at the heart of defence and the hosts took full advantage, storming to an early two-goal advantage thanks to Erick Cabaco and Borja Mayoral.
The absence of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez hampered the holders' hopes of extracting a result although they do have a goal to take back to Camp Nou on January 17 thanks to Philippe Coutinho's potentially pivotal 85th-minute penalty.
Barca's experimental defensive partnership of debutant Murillo, on loan from Valencia, and teenager Chumi came unstuck in the fourth minute as Cabaco rose unchallenged to head in Ruben Rochina's free-kick.
Emmanuel Boateng squandered two good chances to double the advantage but made amends in the 18th minute, prodding through a pass for Real Madrid loanee Mayoral to dispatch into the bottom far corner.
Opportunities were flowing at both ends with Ousmane Dembele and Malcom both failing to beat Aitor Fernandez from promising positions.
Jasper Cillessen routinely came to Barca's rescue in the opening 45 minutes and the Netherlands goalkeeper did so again just beyond the hour, rushing off his line to foil substitute Jose Luis Morales in a one-on-one.
Valverde introduced Arsenal-linked Denis Suarez off the bench and it was the midfielder's mazy dribble that invited Coke into a clumsy challenge, allowing Coutinho to give Barca a much-needed foothold ahead of the return encounter.
Barcelona are at risk of a last-16 exit from the Copa del Rey after a 2-1 first-leg loss at Levante left their trophy defence in doubt.Memories of the 5-4 thriller at Ciutat de Valencia last season that cost Ernesto Valverde's men an unbeaten LaLiga campaign came flooding back during an end-to-end first half in which Levante thrived.
Jeison Murillo and Chumi, afforded opportunities amid a raft of Barca changes, floundered at the heart of defence and the hosts took full advantage, storming to an early two-goal advantage thanks to Erick Cabaco and Borja Mayoral.
The absence of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez hampered the holders' hopes of extracting a result although they do have a goal to take back to Camp Nou on January 17 thanks to Philippe Coutinho's potentially pivotal 85th-minute penalty.
Barca's experimental defensive partnership of debutant Murillo, on loan from Valencia, and teenager Chumi came unstuck in the fourth minute as Cabaco rose unchallenged to head in Ruben Rochina's free-kick.
Emmanuel Boateng squandered two good chances to double the advantage but made amends in the 18th minute, prodding through a pass for Real Madrid loanee Mayoral to dispatch into the bottom far corner.
Opportunities were flowing at both ends with Ousmane Dembele and Malcom both failing to beat Aitor Fernandez from promising positions.
Jasper Cillessen routinely came to Barca's rescue in the opening 45 minutes and the Netherlands goalkeeper did so again just beyond the hour, rushing off his line to foil substitute Jose Luis Morales in a one-on-one.
Valverde introduced Arsenal-linked Denis Suarez off the bench and it was the midfielder's mazy dribble that invited Coke into a clumsy challenge, allowing Coutinho to give Barca a much-needed foothold ahead of the return encounter.
Man United speculation there for a reason – Solskjaer praises Pochettino
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer understands why Mauricio Pochettino has been linked with Manchester United as he praised the highly-rated Tottenham manager.Pochettino is reportedly at the top of United's list to permanently replace Jose Mourinho at the end of the season after the Portuguese was sacked in December.
Solskjaer was appointed as a caretaker basis until the end of the campaign amid United's search for a long-term successor, but the club favourite has thrown himself into the mix with five successive victories.
With United set to face Tottenham in a Premier League blockbuster at Wembley on Sunday, Solskjaer acknowledged speculation linking Pochettino to Old Trafford."He's done a very good job," the 45-year-old told reporters. "The speculation is there for a reason because he's done well."But it's not my job to rate different managers. My focus is on me and my team."
United have not missed a beat since Solskjaer arrived last month, the Red Devils outclassing Cardiff City, Huddersfield Town, Newcastle United and Bournemouth to move within three points of fifth-placed Arsenal.
The Red Devils also defeated Reading in the third round of the FA Cup last week.United will come up against a Tottenham side fighting for the title in third position and boasting star England striker Harry Kane.Kane has amassed 14 Premier League goals this season – level with Arsenal's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at the top of the division's scoring charts – while he has found the back of the net in each of the past six games across all competitions.
"He's not bad, is he? Solskjaer said. "He's a fantastic goalscorer. One of the best in the world to play up there."Then again, I've got a couple as well who I'm happy to work with. He's also a top, top professional. I'm sure whoever plays with him and trains with him can talk more about him.
"But from the outside he's a fantastic finisher. He never misses chances really so let's make sure he doesn't get any against us."
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer understands why Mauricio Pochettino has been linked with Manchester United as he praised the highly-rated Tottenham manager.Pochettino is reportedly at the top of United's list to permanently replace Jose Mourinho at the end of the season after the Portuguese was sacked in December.
Solskjaer was appointed as a caretaker basis until the end of the campaign amid United's search for a long-term successor, but the club favourite has thrown himself into the mix with five successive victories.
With United set to face Tottenham in a Premier League blockbuster at Wembley on Sunday, Solskjaer acknowledged speculation linking Pochettino to Old Trafford."He's done a very good job," the 45-year-old told reporters. "The speculation is there for a reason because he's done well."But it's not my job to rate different managers. My focus is on me and my team."
United have not missed a beat since Solskjaer arrived last month, the Red Devils outclassing Cardiff City, Huddersfield Town, Newcastle United and Bournemouth to move within three points of fifth-placed Arsenal.
The Red Devils also defeated Reading in the third round of the FA Cup last week.United will come up against a Tottenham side fighting for the title in third position and boasting star England striker Harry Kane.Kane has amassed 14 Premier League goals this season – level with Arsenal's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at the top of the division's scoring charts – while he has found the back of the net in each of the past six games across all competitions.
"He's not bad, is he? Solskjaer said. "He's a fantastic goalscorer. One of the best in the world to play up there."Then again, I've got a couple as well who I'm happy to work with. He's also a top, top professional. I'm sure whoever plays with him and trains with him can talk more about him.
"But from the outside he's a fantastic finisher. He never misses chances really so let's make sure he doesn't get any against us."
Arsenal close in on loan move for Barcelona winger Denis Suarez
Arsenal are closing in on a loan deal for Denis Suarez after head coach Unai Emery convinced the wideman to join the Gunners, Goal understands.
Emery confirmed in a pre-match press conference on Thursday that Arsenal will not be making any permanent signings during the January transfer window , but admitted that loan signings are possible.
The Gunners brought in Lucas Torreira, Bernd Leno, Sokratis Papastathopoulos and Matteo Guendouzi during the summer transfer window and are expecting an increased transfer budget this summer when their new £300m kit deal with Adidas kicks in.
Suarez, though, has been identified as player who can compete with Alex Iwobi and Henrikh Mkhitaryan for a place on the flanks during the second half of the season, having previously worked under Emery when the two were at Sevilla in the 2014-15 season.
“I don’t know his [Suarez] situation now,” said Emery. “We can only sign players later on. I know the club is working on possibilities of which players can help us with big performances like we need now.”
Raul Sanllehi, Arsenal’s head of football, has been leading negotiations for the Gunners with Barcelona, where he previously worked at for nine years.Suarez’s contract expires in the summer of 2020, which means an obligation to buy clause is likely to be inserted in the deal.
The 25-year-old is expected to be involved in Barcelona’s Copa del Rey match against Levante on Thursday after the Blaugrana named an 18-man squad for the match at Estadi Ciutat de Valencia before completing the formalities of his move to north London, with the two clubs in advanced discussions over the loan move.
Suarez's arrival may also help offset the summer departure of Aaron Ramsey, with the Wales international having agreed terms with Serie A champions Juventus ahead of a free transfer at the end of the season.
Meanwhile, the search for a centre-back to bolster Arsenal’s threadbare defence continues with Konstantinos Mavropanos likely to feature for the Under-23 side against Manchester City on Monday.
There is an increased belief among the Arsenal coaching staff that Mavropanos is ready to play in the first team and is in contention to be involved in senior games when he’s fully match fit.
That should ease the burden on Sokratis, Shkodran Mustafi and Laurent Koscielny following the season-ending knee injury picked up by Rob Holding in December.
Arsenal are closing in on a loan deal for Denis Suarez after head coach Unai Emery convinced the wideman to join the Gunners, Goal understands.
Emery confirmed in a pre-match press conference on Thursday that Arsenal will not be making any permanent signings during the January transfer window , but admitted that loan signings are possible.
The Gunners brought in Lucas Torreira, Bernd Leno, Sokratis Papastathopoulos and Matteo Guendouzi during the summer transfer window and are expecting an increased transfer budget this summer when their new £300m kit deal with Adidas kicks in.
Suarez, though, has been identified as player who can compete with Alex Iwobi and Henrikh Mkhitaryan for a place on the flanks during the second half of the season, having previously worked under Emery when the two were at Sevilla in the 2014-15 season.
“I don’t know his [Suarez] situation now,” said Emery. “We can only sign players later on. I know the club is working on possibilities of which players can help us with big performances like we need now.”
Raul Sanllehi, Arsenal’s head of football, has been leading negotiations for the Gunners with Barcelona, where he previously worked at for nine years.Suarez’s contract expires in the summer of 2020, which means an obligation to buy clause is likely to be inserted in the deal.
The 25-year-old is expected to be involved in Barcelona’s Copa del Rey match against Levante on Thursday after the Blaugrana named an 18-man squad for the match at Estadi Ciutat de Valencia before completing the formalities of his move to north London, with the two clubs in advanced discussions over the loan move.
Suarez's arrival may also help offset the summer departure of Aaron Ramsey, with the Wales international having agreed terms with Serie A champions Juventus ahead of a free transfer at the end of the season.
Meanwhile, the search for a centre-back to bolster Arsenal’s threadbare defence continues with Konstantinos Mavropanos likely to feature for the Under-23 side against Manchester City on Monday.
There is an increased belief among the Arsenal coaching staff that Mavropanos is ready to play in the first team and is in contention to be involved in senior games when he’s fully match fit.
That should ease the burden on Sokratis, Shkodran Mustafi and Laurent Koscielny following the season-ending knee injury picked up by Rob Holding in December.
‘He is not for sale' - West Ham rule out Arnautovic departure despite £35m China offer
West Ham have claimed they will not sell striker Marko Arnautovic and expect him to honour his contract despite the player wanting to leave to play in the Chinese Super League.
Reports have claimed that a £35 million ($44.8m) offer has been made for the Austria international from an unnamed Chinese club after a fine first half to the season.
Arnautovic’s agent and brother, Danijel, has called for the Irons to accept the bid and allow his client to depart the London Stadium during the January transfer window.
“West Ham bought Marko for peanuts,” Arnautovic’s brother told talkSPORT.“They paid £20m for him, which is nothing in the current market. They bought him to keep them in the Premier League last season and he did that. He took every award at the club; best player, signing of the season and the players’ award.
“Now West Ham have a fantastic offer. It is close to double what they paid for him.“He wants to go to a new market and challenge for titles. This is what he wants. It is his great desire that West Ham accept the offer from China.
“Marko is professional and is preparing himself for the Arsenal game. He will give 100 per cent for West Ham. That is Marko. He will never change.
“West Ham bought Marko for peanuts,” Arnautovic’s brother told talkSPORT . “They paid £20m for him, which is nothing in the current market. They bought him to keep them in the Premier League last season and he did that. He took every award at the club; best player, signing of the season and the players’ award.“Now West Ham have a fantastic offer. It is close to double what they paid for him.
“He wants to go to a new market and challenge for titles. This is what he wants. It is his great desire that West Ham accept the offer from China.“Marko is professional and is preparing himself for the Arsenal game. He will give 100 per cent for West Ham. That is Marko. He will never change.
The 29-year-old has been in superb form this season and has netted seven goals in 15 league games for the east London outfit.His impressive showings have also led to speculation that the former Stoke City man was a target for Chelsea, thoug it now appears that should Arnautovic leave West Ham it would be to China.
A number of high-profiled players have moved to China in recent years, including Oscar, Hulk, Paulinho, Yannick Carrasco and Axel Witsel.
West Ham have claimed they will not sell striker Marko Arnautovic and expect him to honour his contract despite the player wanting to leave to play in the Chinese Super League.
Reports have claimed that a £35 million ($44.8m) offer has been made for the Austria international from an unnamed Chinese club after a fine first half to the season.
Arnautovic’s agent and brother, Danijel, has called for the Irons to accept the bid and allow his client to depart the London Stadium during the January transfer window.
“West Ham bought Marko for peanuts,” Arnautovic’s brother told talkSPORT.“They paid £20m for him, which is nothing in the current market. They bought him to keep them in the Premier League last season and he did that. He took every award at the club; best player, signing of the season and the players’ award.
“Now West Ham have a fantastic offer. It is close to double what they paid for him.“He wants to go to a new market and challenge for titles. This is what he wants. It is his great desire that West Ham accept the offer from China.
“Marko is professional and is preparing himself for the Arsenal game. He will give 100 per cent for West Ham. That is Marko. He will never change.
“West Ham bought Marko for peanuts,” Arnautovic’s brother told talkSPORT . “They paid £20m for him, which is nothing in the current market. They bought him to keep them in the Premier League last season and he did that. He took every award at the club; best player, signing of the season and the players’ award.“Now West Ham have a fantastic offer. It is close to double what they paid for him.
“He wants to go to a new market and challenge for titles. This is what he wants. It is his great desire that West Ham accept the offer from China.“Marko is professional and is preparing himself for the Arsenal game. He will give 100 per cent for West Ham. That is Marko. He will never change.
The 29-year-old has been in superb form this season and has netted seven goals in 15 league games for the east London outfit.His impressive showings have also led to speculation that the former Stoke City man was a target for Chelsea, thoug it now appears that should Arnautovic leave West Ham it would be to China.
A number of high-profiled players have moved to China in recent years, including Oscar, Hulk, Paulinho, Yannick Carrasco and Axel Witsel.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer expects Paul Pogba to be fit for Manchester United's blockbuster clash with Tottenham, although he played down talk of Sunday's match representing a first real test.
United have won four games from four in the Premier League since Solskjaer was put in temporary charge until the end of the season, but they were dealt a blow as Pogba missed their FA Cup victory over Reading through injury following an incident involving Newcastle United's Jonjo Shelvey last week.
With Solskjaer taking his side to Wembley for a tricky encounter against Spurs following a favourable initial fixture list, the United boss will be pleased to have Pogba available again, having featured in recent training sessions during the clubs mid-season trip to Dubai.
"[Pogba] looked OK towards the end so he'll be fit," Solskjaer told a pre-match news conference. "He did have some problem but he came through the last couple of sessions well. He'll be OK."
The prospect of a meeting with third-placed Tottenham should test Solskjaer's burgeoning Old Trafford credentials, but he insisted that United have not had it easy since his arrival.
"We've had tests," he said. "Newcastle away is a test, the first game at Cardiff is a test, the first home game is a test."You get tested in every single game in the Premier League. But, of course, Sunday's game is against a top, top side. If we want to get closer to [Tottenham], we need a good performance and a good result."
Despite the improved level of the opposition, though, Solskjaer will encourage United to attack Tottenham as they have amid their four-game winning streak in the Premier League.
"You always adapt to any opposition and we're playing one of the best teams in the league, so of course we've got to be aware of their strengths," he added.
"But I've been brought up in a way that we need to attack teams. That's our strength as well: going forward and attacking teams.
"We're not going to get as many chances to attack as we have before, so we've got to be ready for when we get hold of the ball, to play well with it and make sure we use the whole pitch as well."
