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..::Football IV::..
- Thread starter Wolverine GTR
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ath discipline nam madi
Mourinho claims Eric Bailly can become one of the world's best defenders at Manchester United
Jose Mourinho believes Manchester United’s new signing Eric Bailly has the potential to become one of the best in the world.
The 22-year-old has joined from Villarreal in a deal worth around £30 million and has signed a four-year contract with the option of a further two seasons.
Bailly, who has made only 35 La Liga appearances, is Mourinho’s first signing as United manager and the Portuguese believes the Ivory Coast international can develop into a star.
"Eric is a young central defender with great natural talent,” Mourinho told the club’s official website.
“He has progressed well to date and has the potential to become one of the best around.
"We look forward to working with him to help nurture that raw talent and fulfil his potential. Eric is at the right club to continue his development."
Jose Mourinho believes Manchester United’s new signing Eric Bailly has the potential to become one of the best in the world.
The 22-year-old has joined from Villarreal in a deal worth around £30 million and has signed a four-year contract with the option of a further two seasons.
Bailly, who has made only 35 La Liga appearances, is Mourinho’s first signing as United manager and the Portuguese believes the Ivory Coast international can develop into a star.
"Eric is a young central defender with great natural talent,” Mourinho told the club’s official website.
“He has progressed well to date and has the potential to become one of the best around.
"We look forward to working with him to help nurture that raw talent and fulfil his potential. Eric is at the right club to continue his development."
Dortmund play down Manchester City move for Aubameyang
Borussia Dortmund claim they "don't know anything" about the potential sale of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to Manchester City.Goal understands City have opened talks with the German club over the striker but are facing a €75 million outlay to secure his signature.
Pep Guardiola has already lured Ilkay Gundogan away from the side he beat to the title with Bayern Munich last season as he plans for his first campaign in charge at the Etihad Stadium.
Dortmund press officer Sascha Fligge refused to be drawn on the reports."We don't know anything about this story," he said. "And we will not comment on every wild transfer rumour this summer."
Aubameyang has also been linked with Real Madrid and Manchester United but recently claimed he was happy to stay at Dortmund despite the sales of Gundogan and Mats Hummels.
Borussia Dortmund claim they "don't know anything" about the potential sale of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to Manchester City.Goal understands City have opened talks with the German club over the striker but are facing a €75 million outlay to secure his signature.
Pep Guardiola has already lured Ilkay Gundogan away from the side he beat to the title with Bayern Munich last season as he plans for his first campaign in charge at the Etihad Stadium.
Dortmund press officer Sascha Fligge refused to be drawn on the reports."We don't know anything about this story," he said. "And we will not comment on every wild transfer rumour this summer."
Aubameyang has also been linked with Real Madrid and Manchester United but recently claimed he was happy to stay at Dortmund despite the sales of Gundogan and Mats Hummels.
Portugal 7-0 Estonia: Ronaldo double helps home side to convincing win
Cristiano Ronaldo hit twice as Portugal crushed Estonia 7-0 to send a message to the rest of the continent ahead of Euro 2016.
Back from an extended break after his exploits for Real Madrid in the Champions League final, Ronaldo scored two of the home side's three first-half goals before being replaced at the interval.
However, Ricardo Quaresma stole the show with a superb display. The winger not only found the net in each half, but also had a hand in three other goals, helping Portugal sign off in style before they travel to France.
Danilo Pereira headed home a Quaresma corner to get his first international goal, while an unfortunate deflection off Estonia's Karol Mets made it 5-0 just after the hour mark.
After Quaresma completed his brace with a well-struck drive, substitute Eder rounded out the scoring to carry a red-hot Portugal to a magnificent seven-goal win.
Ronaldo and Real Madrid colleague Pepe both returned to a side showing seven changes from the line-up that started the 1-0 defeat to England at Wembley last time out.
Having already been denied by Estonia goalkeeper Pavel Londak, Portugal’s all-time leading scorer broke the deadlock in the 36th minute courtesy of an exquisite Quaresma cross from the left wing.
The delivery, struck with the outside of the right foot, curled over to the back post where Ronaldo planted a firm header high into the net.The provider turned scorer three minutes later, this time Quaresma using his right instep to curl a delightful chip over Londak and into the far corner of the goal.
After his cheeky flick sent Joao Mario clear down the right, Ronaldo scored again with a first-time effort from the return pass. His strike, hit into the ground, ballooned up over Londak, who had barely been tested before Portugal's nine-minute treble before the break.
Any hopes of a hat-trick from the home side's talismanic captain disappeared with his half-time withdrawal, Fernando Santos taking no risks with Portugal's Euro 2016 opener against Iceland less than a week away.
Estonia missed the chance to get a goal back early in the second half, Sander Puri hitting the crossbar with a left-footed attempt with Portugal goalkeeper Rui Patricio caught out of position after failing to deal with a deep free-kick.It was not long before there were further goals, though, as Quaresma's delivery from the right led to Portugal's next two.
The Besiktas winger sent over a corner that allowed an unmarked Danilo to head home, while a whipped-in cross then saw Mets unable to do anything but deflect Londak's clearing punch into his own net.
Quaresma aimed a low drive into the bottom left corner to score again after 77 minutes before Eder's calm finish completed an emphatic display that will only raise his country's hopes ahead of a major tournament.
Cristiano Ronaldo hit twice as Portugal crushed Estonia 7-0 to send a message to the rest of the continent ahead of Euro 2016.
Back from an extended break after his exploits for Real Madrid in the Champions League final, Ronaldo scored two of the home side's three first-half goals before being replaced at the interval.
However, Ricardo Quaresma stole the show with a superb display. The winger not only found the net in each half, but also had a hand in three other goals, helping Portugal sign off in style before they travel to France.
Danilo Pereira headed home a Quaresma corner to get his first international goal, while an unfortunate deflection off Estonia's Karol Mets made it 5-0 just after the hour mark.
After Quaresma completed his brace with a well-struck drive, substitute Eder rounded out the scoring to carry a red-hot Portugal to a magnificent seven-goal win.
Ronaldo and Real Madrid colleague Pepe both returned to a side showing seven changes from the line-up that started the 1-0 defeat to England at Wembley last time out.
Having already been denied by Estonia goalkeeper Pavel Londak, Portugal’s all-time leading scorer broke the deadlock in the 36th minute courtesy of an exquisite Quaresma cross from the left wing.
The delivery, struck with the outside of the right foot, curled over to the back post where Ronaldo planted a firm header high into the net.The provider turned scorer three minutes later, this time Quaresma using his right instep to curl a delightful chip over Londak and into the far corner of the goal.
After his cheeky flick sent Joao Mario clear down the right, Ronaldo scored again with a first-time effort from the return pass. His strike, hit into the ground, ballooned up over Londak, who had barely been tested before Portugal's nine-minute treble before the break.
Any hopes of a hat-trick from the home side's talismanic captain disappeared with his half-time withdrawal, Fernando Santos taking no risks with Portugal's Euro 2016 opener against Iceland less than a week away.
Estonia missed the chance to get a goal back early in the second half, Sander Puri hitting the crossbar with a left-footed attempt with Portugal goalkeeper Rui Patricio caught out of position after failing to deal with a deep free-kick.It was not long before there were further goals, though, as Quaresma's delivery from the right led to Portugal's next two.
The Besiktas winger sent over a corner that allowed an unmarked Danilo to head home, while a whipped-in cross then saw Mets unable to do anything but deflect Londak's clearing punch into his own net.
Quaresma aimed a low drive into the bottom left corner to score again after 77 minutes before Eder's calm finish completed an emphatic display that will only raise his country's hopes ahead of a major tournament.
Juventus close in on €30 million Pjanic deal
Juventus have emerged as the front-runner to sign Roma star Miralem Pjanic, with the Turin side ready to part with €30 million for the highly rated midfielder.
Goal understands that the Juve authorities have given the green light to the arrival of the Bosnia-Herzegovina international, whom Massimiliano Allegri sees as a key part of his plans for the coming season.
Pjanic has been linked with top clubs across Europe, with Manchester United and Chelsea among those reportedly interested.
But a Juventus bid of more than €30m including bonuses and other payments would put them in the driving seat.
The player, meanwhile, will be offered a bumper contract worth €4.7m a season plus bonuses until 2021 to seal the deal.
Juventus have emerged as the front-runner to sign Roma star Miralem Pjanic, with the Turin side ready to part with €30 million for the highly rated midfielder.
Goal understands that the Juve authorities have given the green light to the arrival of the Bosnia-Herzegovina international, whom Massimiliano Allegri sees as a key part of his plans for the coming season.
Pjanic has been linked with top clubs across Europe, with Manchester United and Chelsea among those reportedly interested.
But a Juventus bid of more than €30m including bonuses and other payments would put them in the driving seat.
The player, meanwhile, will be offered a bumper contract worth €4.7m a season plus bonuses until 2021 to seal the deal.
Brazil 7-1 Haiti: Coutinho hat trick inspires Copa America rout
Philippe Coutinho netted a hat trick as Brazil kick-started its Copa America Centenario campaign with a 7-1 win over Haiti.
Brazil played out a contentious goalless draw with Ecuador last time out but there was nothing controversial about Wednesday's Group B victory as Philippe Coutinho put the result beyond doubt against the Caribbean minnow during the first 45 minutes in Orlando.Coutinho scored twice inside the opening half hour and completed his hat trick in the second minute of injury time at Camping World Stadium.
Renato Augusto scored twice with goals in each half, while substitutes and Santos pair Gabriel - dubbed the new Neymar - and Lucas Lima got in on the action after the break to ease some of the pressure on coach Dunga at the centenary tournament in the United States.
Brazil, though, was exposed in defense as James Marcelin scored Haiti's first Copa America goal with 20 minutes remaining.With Miranda still unfit, Dunga retained the center back pairing of Gil and Marquinhos as Brazil named an unchanged starting XI.
Looking to pull off a shock and snap a three-game losing streak, CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinalist Haiti called in Jean Alexandre, Jean Alcenat and Kevin Belfort at the expense of Wilde Donald Guerrier, Max Hilaire and Duckens Nazon.
As expected, Brazil controlled the game against the 74th-ranked nation but was made to wait 15 minutes for the opener, though it was worth it after Coutinho produced a stunning strike to break the deadlock.
Left in plenty of space, Coutinho collected the ball outside the penalty area and beared down on goal before unleashing a powerful effort beyond Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide.For all of Brazil's dominance, the side was often sloppy in possession but that did not stop them from doubling the lead via Coutinho just shy of the half-hour mark in an all too easy sequence of play.
Dani Alves crossed in from the right flank, picking out Jonas, who outmuscled two opponents, including the keeper, and squared the ball to an unmarked Coutinho for the Liverpool star to tap into an empty net for Brazil's 400th Copa America goal.
Haiti emerged from the halftime break on the front foot, threatening at times but was not clinical enough as Gabriel came off the bench to extend Brazil's lead.Staking his claim for a starting berth after replacing Jonas at the interval, teenager Gabriel was fed through by Elias and coolly slotted the ball past Placide on the hour.
Brazil showed no signs of easing up on Haiti as fellow substitute Lucas Lima got in on the action in the 68th minute, nodding home Alves' cross.Haiti, though, did score, with USA-based forward Marcelin thumping home the 70th-minute rebound after Alisson was unable to deal with Hilaire's shot following a driving run from Nazon.
There was almost a sixth for Brazil after Gabriel's impressive footwork but Willian's stinging shot was saved by Placide with 12 minutes remaining, however Augusto completed his brace in the 86th minute with a tidy finish and Coutinho bagged his third late in stoppage time as the South American giant extended its unbeaten streak to eight matches.
Philippe Coutinho netted a hat trick as Brazil kick-started its Copa America Centenario campaign with a 7-1 win over Haiti.
Brazil played out a contentious goalless draw with Ecuador last time out but there was nothing controversial about Wednesday's Group B victory as Philippe Coutinho put the result beyond doubt against the Caribbean minnow during the first 45 minutes in Orlando.Coutinho scored twice inside the opening half hour and completed his hat trick in the second minute of injury time at Camping World Stadium.
Renato Augusto scored twice with goals in each half, while substitutes and Santos pair Gabriel - dubbed the new Neymar - and Lucas Lima got in on the action after the break to ease some of the pressure on coach Dunga at the centenary tournament in the United States.
Brazil, though, was exposed in defense as James Marcelin scored Haiti's first Copa America goal with 20 minutes remaining.With Miranda still unfit, Dunga retained the center back pairing of Gil and Marquinhos as Brazil named an unchanged starting XI.
Looking to pull off a shock and snap a three-game losing streak, CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinalist Haiti called in Jean Alexandre, Jean Alcenat and Kevin Belfort at the expense of Wilde Donald Guerrier, Max Hilaire and Duckens Nazon.
As expected, Brazil controlled the game against the 74th-ranked nation but was made to wait 15 minutes for the opener, though it was worth it after Coutinho produced a stunning strike to break the deadlock.
Left in plenty of space, Coutinho collected the ball outside the penalty area and beared down on goal before unleashing a powerful effort beyond Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide.For all of Brazil's dominance, the side was often sloppy in possession but that did not stop them from doubling the lead via Coutinho just shy of the half-hour mark in an all too easy sequence of play.
Dani Alves crossed in from the right flank, picking out Jonas, who outmuscled two opponents, including the keeper, and squared the ball to an unmarked Coutinho for the Liverpool star to tap into an empty net for Brazil's 400th Copa America goal.
Haiti emerged from the halftime break on the front foot, threatening at times but was not clinical enough as Gabriel came off the bench to extend Brazil's lead.Staking his claim for a starting berth after replacing Jonas at the interval, teenager Gabriel was fed through by Elias and coolly slotted the ball past Placide on the hour.
Brazil showed no signs of easing up on Haiti as fellow substitute Lucas Lima got in on the action in the 68th minute, nodding home Alves' cross.Haiti, though, did score, with USA-based forward Marcelin thumping home the 70th-minute rebound after Alisson was unable to deal with Hilaire's shot following a driving run from Nazon.
There was almost a sixth for Brazil after Gabriel's impressive footwork but Willian's stinging shot was saved by Placide with 12 minutes remaining, however Augusto completed his brace in the 86th minute with a tidy finish and Coutinho bagged his third late in stoppage time as the South American giant extended its unbeaten streak to eight matches.
Nainggolan: Chelsea stars have urged me to move
Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan has revealed Chelsea stars Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois have urged him to join the Blues this summer.
Goal understands the Belgium international remains one of Antonio Conte's top transfer targets, with Nainggolan also revealing he has previously met with the Italy boss regarding a transfer.
And he believes the incoming Chelsea boss is still keen to sign him this summer, with Hazard and Courtois working on persuading him to leave the Stadio Olimpico behind after Euro 2016.
"I have met with Antonio Conte and I know he wanted me at Juventus," he told reporters. "He has told me what kind of player I can be for him and I feel he still wants me.
"However, I am now concentrating on the next few weeks and to see what will happen. Thibaut Courtois and Eden Hazard have already asked me to come to Chelsea, but a possible transfer is not in my head."
Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan has revealed Chelsea stars Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois have urged him to join the Blues this summer.
Goal understands the Belgium international remains one of Antonio Conte's top transfer targets, with Nainggolan also revealing he has previously met with the Italy boss regarding a transfer.
And he believes the incoming Chelsea boss is still keen to sign him this summer, with Hazard and Courtois working on persuading him to leave the Stadio Olimpico behind after Euro 2016.
"I have met with Antonio Conte and I know he wanted me at Juventus," he told reporters. "He has told me what kind of player I can be for him and I feel he still wants me.
"However, I am now concentrating on the next few weeks and to see what will happen. Thibaut Courtois and Eden Hazard have already asked me to come to Chelsea, but a possible transfer is not in my head."
Seven-goal Portugal have to keep grounded, insists Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo warned Portugal they could not get too carried away despite putting seven goals past Estonia in their final friendly before Euro 2016.
Captain Ronaldo scored twice before being withdrawn at half-time by coach Fernando Santos, although the hosts still prospered in Lisbon without the presence of the talismanic forward.
Ricardo Quaresma scored once in each half and added three assists, while Danilo Pereira and substitute Eder both found the net after the interval.
For Portugal, who were helped out by an own goal from Estonia's Karol Mets, the 7-0 triumph was the perfect way to sign off on home soil before they travel to France."It was a good game. The team did well and we managed to get seven goals. We should be proud," Ronaldo told Record.
"But it's a friendly game and the fact we won does not say anything. We have to keep our feet on the ground."We should be proud. The team is well physically and so it is a good indicator for Europe. However, it is good to be with your feet firmly on the ground.
"It's always good, of course. We played a good game, the last game. The team is to be congratulated, it has shown that we are good, and that goes for training as well."Portugal will now turn their attention to their Euro 2016 opener against Iceland next Tuesday.
Ronaldo insists the squad must stay focused, with their first target to finish in the top two in Group F and secure a place in knockout stages of the tournament."The goal was to win something for my club and we got the Champions League.
Now I want to make a good European Championship. I hope it goes well," the Real Madrid star added. "I want to help Portugal to achieve its goals. The group stage is important and then we'll see."
Cristiano Ronaldo warned Portugal they could not get too carried away despite putting seven goals past Estonia in their final friendly before Euro 2016.
Captain Ronaldo scored twice before being withdrawn at half-time by coach Fernando Santos, although the hosts still prospered in Lisbon without the presence of the talismanic forward.
Ricardo Quaresma scored once in each half and added three assists, while Danilo Pereira and substitute Eder both found the net after the interval.
For Portugal, who were helped out by an own goal from Estonia's Karol Mets, the 7-0 triumph was the perfect way to sign off on home soil before they travel to France."It was a good game. The team did well and we managed to get seven goals. We should be proud," Ronaldo told Record.
"But it's a friendly game and the fact we won does not say anything. We have to keep our feet on the ground."We should be proud. The team is well physically and so it is a good indicator for Europe. However, it is good to be with your feet firmly on the ground.
"It's always good, of course. We played a good game, the last game. The team is to be congratulated, it has shown that we are good, and that goes for training as well."Portugal will now turn their attention to their Euro 2016 opener against Iceland next Tuesday.
Ronaldo insists the squad must stay focused, with their first target to finish in the top two in Group F and secure a place in knockout stages of the tournament."The goal was to win something for my club and we got the Champions League.
Now I want to make a good European Championship. I hope it goes well," the Real Madrid star added. "I want to help Portugal to achieve its goals. The group stage is important and then we'll see."
Rooney: I will never play for another Premier League club
Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has ruled out ever playing for another Premier League club.
Rooney has come close to leaving Manchester on a number of occasions since signing from Everton in 2004, most notably in 2010 when he handed in a transfer request amid strong interest from Premier League rivals Chelsea.The 30-year-old was eventually handed a new contract at United before Jose Mourinho unsuccessfully tried to tempt him to Chelsea again in 2013.
With Mourinho now installed as United boss and the Red Devils captaincy his, Rooney has no plans to play for anyone else in the Premier League."I am happy to say now that, whatever may happen in the future, I will never play for another Premier League club," Rooney said while speaking at the launch of the Wayne Rooney Foundation.
His statement rules out a return to Everton and could see England's all-time record goalscorer finish his career abroad, but he seemingly remains a key part of Mourinho's plans."Wayne is, and has been, England’s best player for over a decade," Mourinho said.
Rooney is closing in on Bobby Charlton's all-time goalscoring record at Old Trafford, needing just five more goals to eclipse the United and England great.
Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has ruled out ever playing for another Premier League club.
Rooney has come close to leaving Manchester on a number of occasions since signing from Everton in 2004, most notably in 2010 when he handed in a transfer request amid strong interest from Premier League rivals Chelsea.The 30-year-old was eventually handed a new contract at United before Jose Mourinho unsuccessfully tried to tempt him to Chelsea again in 2013.
With Mourinho now installed as United boss and the Red Devils captaincy his, Rooney has no plans to play for anyone else in the Premier League."I am happy to say now that, whatever may happen in the future, I will never play for another Premier League club," Rooney said while speaking at the launch of the Wayne Rooney Foundation.
His statement rules out a return to Everton and could see England's all-time record goalscorer finish his career abroad, but he seemingly remains a key part of Mourinho's plans."Wayne is, and has been, England’s best player for over a decade," Mourinho said.
Rooney is closing in on Bobby Charlton's all-time goalscoring record at Old Trafford, needing just five more goals to eclipse the United and England great.
Coutinho denies knowledge of Paris Saint-Germain offer
Philippe Coutinho insists he knows nothing about a rumored 23 million pound ($33.3 million) bid from Paris Saint-Germain for his services.
The Liverpool playmaker scored a hat trick as Brazil thrashed Haiti 7-1 in the Copa America Centenario on Wednesday, the same day it was rumored that the Ligue 1 champion has rivaled Barcelona in the race to seal his signature.
Reports indicate that PSG has made the first move by submitting a formal offer to Liverpool, but the player himself says he has not been informed of any interest.
“As far as I know, there’s no offer,” he said. “I’m here with the national team, this subject is for my representatives. More important for me is to be here, focused on the national team and having a good tournament. That’s where my head is.”
Coutinho’s international teammate Willian, himself said to be the subject of interest from Manchester United this summer, also made it clear that he is paying no attention to his future in club football.
Incoming United boss Jose Mourinho is reported to be keen to take the Chelsea winger to Old Trafford, but the 27-year-old says neither he nor any of his colleagues will have their heads turned this summer.
“No, no, we have to focus here. The mentality… my head is here. We have to think only about the national team.”
He continued: “I am happy for him. He scored three goals, he played well. I think we have to... not only him but the whole team, we have to play like we played today.
“I think we had a great game tonight, and now we have to continue in the same way and win game by game. We have to improve always, because in football you can’t stop, never stop. You have to always improve and I think we are doing that.”
Brazil’s victory puts the side back on track in Group B following an opening draw with Ecuador.
Victory against Peru in the final group game in Boston on Sunday will secure top spot for Dunga’s men.
Philippe Coutinho insists he knows nothing about a rumored 23 million pound ($33.3 million) bid from Paris Saint-Germain for his services.
The Liverpool playmaker scored a hat trick as Brazil thrashed Haiti 7-1 in the Copa America Centenario on Wednesday, the same day it was rumored that the Ligue 1 champion has rivaled Barcelona in the race to seal his signature.
Reports indicate that PSG has made the first move by submitting a formal offer to Liverpool, but the player himself says he has not been informed of any interest.
“As far as I know, there’s no offer,” he said. “I’m here with the national team, this subject is for my representatives. More important for me is to be here, focused on the national team and having a good tournament. That’s where my head is.”
Coutinho’s international teammate Willian, himself said to be the subject of interest from Manchester United this summer, also made it clear that he is paying no attention to his future in club football.
Incoming United boss Jose Mourinho is reported to be keen to take the Chelsea winger to Old Trafford, but the 27-year-old says neither he nor any of his colleagues will have their heads turned this summer.
“No, no, we have to focus here. The mentality… my head is here. We have to think only about the national team.”
He continued: “I am happy for him. He scored three goals, he played well. I think we have to... not only him but the whole team, we have to play like we played today.
“I think we had a great game tonight, and now we have to continue in the same way and win game by game. We have to improve always, because in football you can’t stop, never stop. You have to always improve and I think we are doing that.”
Brazil’s victory puts the side back on track in Group B following an opening draw with Ecuador.
Victory against Peru in the final group game in Boston on Sunday will secure top spot for Dunga’s men.
OFFICIAL: Carrick signs new Man Utd deal
Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has signed a new one-year contract, the club have confirmed.Goal reported on Tuesday that the 34-year-old was set to be offered fresh terms by new manager Jose Mourinho, and the club his extension has now been confirmed.
Carrick joined United from Tottenham in 2006 and has since become an integral part of the Red Devils' midfield, winning five Premier League titles and the Champions League at Old Trafford.
The veteran star will now prolong his career at United, having made 42 appearances in all competitions as Louis van Gaal's side won the FA Cup in 2015-16, and he has expressed his delight at putting pen to paper.
"This great club has been a part of my life for the past 10 years, so I am delighted that this incredible journey is continuing," he told the club's official website. "It’s great to have the opportunity to work under Jose Mourinho, who has achieved so much during his managerial career."I would like to thank the fans for their unwavering support. Winning the FA Cup was a special moment and, hopefully, we can go on to win more trophies in the future."
Mourinho has also praised the midfielder, adding: "Michael is a very intelligent midfielder and a great reader of the game. I am pleased that he will be extending his contract.
"His form this year shows his ability and his enjoyment of the game are as strong as ever. Michael has a wealth of experience from his many years at the club and that knowledge will be invaluable to me. I am really looking forward to working with him."
Messi has no personality - Maradona
Diego Maradona has claimed that Lionel Messi lacks the character to be a leader.Argentina great Maradona was caught on microphone discussing the Barcelona star with Brazil legend Pele at a publicity event on Thursday in Paris.
Pele asked his fellow World Cup winner if he knows his compatriot personally, prompting Maradona to offer an unguarded response."He's a really good person, but he has no personality," Maradona said."He lacks [the] character to be a leader."Pele responded: "Ah, I get it, he's not like we were back in the days. In the 70s we [Brazil] had really good players like Rivellino, Gerson, Tostao.
"Not like Argentina now, which depends only on Messi. He [Maradona] is saying that Messi is a good player, there's no doubt about it, but he has no personality."
Maradona's assertion may perhaps be greeted favourably by some in Argentina.Messi's commitment to his country has at times been questioned, the forward having struggled to replicate his extraordinary club performances when playing for the Albiceleste.
The 28-year-old has twice lost in the final of the Copa America and once in the decider of the World Cup, with an Olympic gold medal in 2008 his only significant international honour.He missed Argentina's opening game of the Copa America, a 2-1 win over holders Chile, due to a back injury.
Nolito would be a steal for Barca – Pique
Gerard Pique has called for Barcelona coach Luis Enrique to snap up his Spain team-mate Nolito and described the Celta Vigo forward as "a steal".Nolito was a reported target for La Liga champions Barca in the January transfer window but they failed to meet the player's release clause.
The arrival of the new tax year puts the move back on the cards, and Pique urged Luis Enrique to move for the 29-year-old this summer.
"To say Nolito must come to Barca or not isn't for me to say as it's not my place, but for the price and for what the prices are on the market, it seems like a steal," Pique, who has been training with Nolito ahead of Euro 2016, told Al Primer Toque.
"He's showing that now with the national team."I don't know if we will close the deal of not - it's not my job - but he would be a great player for Barca."
Nolito scored 12 goals in 29 La Liga appearances for Celta last season to earn a place in Vicente del Bosque's final Spain squad.
Gerard Pique has called for Barcelona coach Luis Enrique to snap up his Spain team-mate Nolito and described the Celta Vigo forward as "a steal".Nolito was a reported target for La Liga champions Barca in the January transfer window but they failed to meet the player's release clause.
The arrival of the new tax year puts the move back on the cards, and Pique urged Luis Enrique to move for the 29-year-old this summer.
"To say Nolito must come to Barca or not isn't for me to say as it's not my place, but for the price and for what the prices are on the market, it seems like a steal," Pique, who has been training with Nolito ahead of Euro 2016, told Al Primer Toque.
"He's showing that now with the national team."I don't know if we will close the deal of not - it's not my job - but he would be a great player for Barca."
Nolito scored 12 goals in 29 La Liga appearances for Celta last season to earn a place in Vicente del Bosque's final Spain squad.
Croatia must start strong – Modric
Croatia midfielder Luka Modric has set his sights on qualifying from Group D and reaching the knockout stages of Euro 2016 – before facing Spain in his team's third game.
Positive results against Turkey on Sunday and the Czech Republic could render Croatia's clash with the defending champions irrelevant to their hopes of escaping the group, and Modric is confident of their chances.Having played his club football in Spain for the last four years, Modric is well aware of the threat posed by Vicente del Bosque's team.
The Real Madrid star told Marca: "I think the group is really difficult. Firstly we play Turkey, then Czech Republic and finally Spain."I think the first match will be key. If we manage to win, our path to the knockout stage will be easier.
"It will be hard as always against Spain, one of the best teams in the world. I hope we have already booked our ticket to the next stage by then."He added: "Our first goal is to advance past the group stage and I feel we are very capable of accomplishing it."
Modric enjoyed a solid season in 2015-16, flourishing under the management of Zinedine Zidane as Madrid won the Champions League, but a strong performance at a tournament with Croatia remains a career ambition for the 30-year-old.He said: "I want to win or make a deep run with Croatia into a major tournament and I still have yet to win La Liga.
"I feel the utmost pride every time I wear it given our history. I always look forward to playing for my national team, especially at a major tournament."
Croatia midfielder Luka Modric has set his sights on qualifying from Group D and reaching the knockout stages of Euro 2016 – before facing Spain in his team's third game.
Positive results against Turkey on Sunday and the Czech Republic could render Croatia's clash with the defending champions irrelevant to their hopes of escaping the group, and Modric is confident of their chances.Having played his club football in Spain for the last four years, Modric is well aware of the threat posed by Vicente del Bosque's team.
The Real Madrid star told Marca: "I think the group is really difficult. Firstly we play Turkey, then Czech Republic and finally Spain."I think the first match will be key. If we manage to win, our path to the knockout stage will be easier.
"It will be hard as always against Spain, one of the best teams in the world. I hope we have already booked our ticket to the next stage by then."He added: "Our first goal is to advance past the group stage and I feel we are very capable of accomplishing it."
Modric enjoyed a solid season in 2015-16, flourishing under the management of Zinedine Zidane as Madrid won the Champions League, but a strong performance at a tournament with Croatia remains a career ambition for the 30-year-old.He said: "I want to win or make a deep run with Croatia into a major tournament and I still have yet to win La Liga.
"I feel the utmost pride every time I wear it given our history. I always look forward to playing for my national team, especially at a major tournament."
I'm fit to face the Czechs – Morata
Alvaro Morata says he is fit to play in Spain's Euro 2016 opener against the Czech Republic after recovering from a hamstring injury.The Juventus striker picked up the injury in Spain's 6-1 friendly victory over South Korea, but he has since returned to full training with the squad.
Ahead of La Roja's opener in Toulouse on Monday, the 23-year-old forward is confident of making Vincente del Bosque's starting XI.
"I feel very good," said Morata. "The discomfort has passed and I did not play in the last friendly [a 1-0 defeat to Georgia] in order to get better."If the coach decides, then I'll be ready to play against the Czech Republic."
Del Bosque has five strikers in contention for the game, with Aritz Aduriz, Lucas Vazquez, Pedro and Nolito all vying for what is likely to be a lone striker role in the team.
Morata said: "We have a selection of very good strikers. Some did not come [to the tournament] and I am proud to lead the team."It is a great responsibility, which generates a lot of pressure and I am ready to be the striker of Spain."
He added: "It is very important to me, the Euros. It will be my first European Championship and it is a dream to play in the Spanish national team."
Alvaro Morata says he is fit to play in Spain's Euro 2016 opener against the Czech Republic after recovering from a hamstring injury.The Juventus striker picked up the injury in Spain's 6-1 friendly victory over South Korea, but he has since returned to full training with the squad.
Ahead of La Roja's opener in Toulouse on Monday, the 23-year-old forward is confident of making Vincente del Bosque's starting XI.
"I feel very good," said Morata. "The discomfort has passed and I did not play in the last friendly [a 1-0 defeat to Georgia] in order to get better."If the coach decides, then I'll be ready to play against the Czech Republic."
Del Bosque has five strikers in contention for the game, with Aritz Aduriz, Lucas Vazquez, Pedro and Nolito all vying for what is likely to be a lone striker role in the team.
Morata said: "We have a selection of very good strikers. Some did not come [to the tournament] and I am proud to lead the team."It is a great responsibility, which generates a lot of pressure and I am ready to be the striker of Spain."
He added: "It is very important to me, the Euros. It will be my first European Championship and it is a dream to play in the Spanish national team."
Lukaku backs Pogba to light up Euros
Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku has backed Paul Pogba to be the star of the European Championship, describing him as "the complete midfielder".
When asked to name the player he felt would light up the tournament, Lukaku barely hesitated before choosing the talismanic Juventus playmaker, who inspired his club to a fifth consecutive Serie A title last season.
Lukaku, who will be hoping to fire Belgium out of Group E and into a potential quarter-final with France, heaped praise on Pogba, who he described as "a very good friend".
He told Dafabet UK: "I'm not going to put another striker ahead of me, that's for sure! But I'll put a midfielder. I think Pogba is going to be really good at the European Championship."He's a very good friend of mine. I think he's going to be one of the main guys at this tournament.
"He's the complete midfielder, the one that everybody wants. Technically skilful, he can defend, he can attack, he can dribble, he can find a pass."Pogba has been the subject of speculation linking him with a move away from Juventus this summer, but the 23-year-old is unlikely to make a decision on his future until after France's involvement in Euro 2016 ends.
His value to the club that secures his signature cannot be underestimated according to Lukaku, who added: "He can dictate the play, he can control the game - he is the modern midfielder."The number eight, number 10 and number six in one player – that's him."
Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku has backed Paul Pogba to be the star of the European Championship, describing him as "the complete midfielder".
When asked to name the player he felt would light up the tournament, Lukaku barely hesitated before choosing the talismanic Juventus playmaker, who inspired his club to a fifth consecutive Serie A title last season.
Lukaku, who will be hoping to fire Belgium out of Group E and into a potential quarter-final with France, heaped praise on Pogba, who he described as "a very good friend".
He told Dafabet UK: "I'm not going to put another striker ahead of me, that's for sure! But I'll put a midfielder. I think Pogba is going to be really good at the European Championship."He's a very good friend of mine. I think he's going to be one of the main guys at this tournament.
"He's the complete midfielder, the one that everybody wants. Technically skilful, he can defend, he can attack, he can dribble, he can find a pass."Pogba has been the subject of speculation linking him with a move away from Juventus this summer, but the 23-year-old is unlikely to make a decision on his future until after France's involvement in Euro 2016 ends.
His value to the club that secures his signature cannot be underestimated according to Lukaku, who added: "He can dictate the play, he can control the game - he is the modern midfielder."The number eight, number 10 and number six in one player – that's him."
Messi to return for Argentina against Panama
Lionel Messi will return from injury for Argentina when they face Panama in the Copa America Centenario on Friday, coach Gerardo Martino has confirmed.
Messi sat out the Group D opener against Chile on Monday after struggling to overcome a niggling back injury in time for the 2-1 triumph.
Martino said after the match he expected the Barcelona forward to be ready to face Panama at Soldier Field, and having returned to full training, the Albiceleste boss is ready to welcome back his talisman."Messi trained with the group and is going to play tomorrow [Friday]," said Martino. "I see no reason to not include him."
The 2015 Copa America runners-up were also without Lucas Biglia in their opening match, but Martino does not anticipate the Lazio midfielder featuring until the final group game against Bolivia."Biglia is recovering very well. We will see in the third group game if he can get some minutes," he added.
The victory over Chile delighted Martino, but he is not getting ahead of himself with regards to a potential title challenge."The pressure against Chile gave us the result. [Panama] is a totally different game," he added.
"We are the same as last year but have started better. It was a promising debut, but we are only aiming to qualify."
Lionel Messi will return from injury for Argentina when they face Panama in the Copa America Centenario on Friday, coach Gerardo Martino has confirmed.
Messi sat out the Group D opener against Chile on Monday after struggling to overcome a niggling back injury in time for the 2-1 triumph.
Martino said after the match he expected the Barcelona forward to be ready to face Panama at Soldier Field, and having returned to full training, the Albiceleste boss is ready to welcome back his talisman."Messi trained with the group and is going to play tomorrow [Friday]," said Martino. "I see no reason to not include him."
The 2015 Copa America runners-up were also without Lucas Biglia in their opening match, but Martino does not anticipate the Lazio midfielder featuring until the final group game against Bolivia."Biglia is recovering very well. We will see in the third group game if he can get some minutes," he added.
The victory over Chile delighted Martino, but he is not getting ahead of himself with regards to a potential title challenge."The pressure against Chile gave us the result. [Panama] is a totally different game," he added.
"We are the same as last year but have started better. It was a promising debut, but we are only aiming to qualify."
The dream of many budding young footballers of emulating Cristiano Ronaldo comes true for one fan in a special new Nike advert released ahead of Euro 2016.The Portugal forward plays the lead role in the 'The Switch', a six-minute film which sees Ronaldo switch bodies with a fan from England.
Blessed with his hero's skill, the fan rises through the ranks to represent Manchester City and England before going head-to-head with Ronaldo - who has had to learn his own game all over again.
