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Barcelona 4 Eibar 2: Luis Enrique's Camp Nou farewell brings thrills, but no title
Barcelona surrendered the LaLiga title to Real Madrid as Luis Enrique's Camp Nou farewell was marked by a thrilling 4-2 come-from-behind victory over 10-man Eibar.
The Catalans needed to win and then hope Madrid lost at Malaga in order to secure a third consecutive league championship, but Zinedine Zidane's side held their nerve to prevail 2-0.
Barca – seeking a 12th straight top-flight home win – were stunned by Takashi Inui's seventh-minute opener, a fine finish that ricocheted in off the underside of the crossbar.
Luis Suarez spurned two glorious chances to level before the interval, with Eibar goalkeeper Yoel helping to preserve a shock lead, while fortune favoured Jose Luis Mendilibar's side when Lionel Messi somehow scuffed wide from six yards in the second half.
That proved costly when Inui crashed in his second off the frame of the goal, but it stirred Barca into life and David Junca's own goal cut the deficit in the 63rd minute.
A blatant dive from Jordi Alba fooled referee Alejandro Hernandez into awarding a penalty, but Yoel acrobatically kept out Messi's effort, only for Suarez to level it up three minutes later.
Messi then atoned for his spot-kick failure by converting another after Neymar had been fouled by Ander Capa, whose red card added to the drama before Messi's late solo goal sealed it.
The home side were without defensive trio Gerard Pique, Javier Mascherano and Jeremy Mathieu, meaning Marlon Santos was selected once more.
It quickly became apparent that Madrid, who needed only a draw, had taken the lead, sapping the optimism out of the Camp Nou crowd.That sense of impending disappointment grew when Inui fired a first-time shot beyond Marc-Andre ter Stegen from Capa's searching cross.
Suarez contrived to fire wide at the other end immediately after, having raced clear with only the goalkeeper to beat.The Uruguayan proved more accurate in the 14th minute, but his goal was ruled out after Alba was adjudged to have strayed offside in the build-up.
Neymar had speculative appeals for a penalty waved away as he went down under minimal contact from Junca.A Sergi Roberto volley called Yoel into his first meaningful action after 33 minutes and the Valencia loanee did brilliantly to repel Suarez's low shot soon after.
Ruben Pena could have made matters even worse for Luis Enrique's men in the final minute of the half, but he failed to turn home the rebound from Inui's saved effort.There was no sign of Eibar trying simply to protect their advantage in the second half, with the lively Inui denied from a tight angle inside 90 seconds of the restart.
It heralded an open start to the second period and Yoel saved smartly from Andres Iniesta's 18-yard drive before keeping out another strike from the Spain legend.
Barca were 4-0 winners in January's reverse fixture, but somehow a breakthrough continued to elude them, Messi remarkably side-footing wide from close range with Yoel laying helplessly on the floor after Suarez's square pass.
That abysmal miss was punished soon after as Inui again confounded Ter Stegen with a rifled shot that cannoned in off the bar to leave the home crowd in disbelief.
They were given a timely boost when Neymar's shot came off the foot of the post and rebounded in off the unfortunate Junca, but Barca then suffered a blow when Messi's penalty was superbly saved, which offered Eibar some justice after Alba's play acting.
Still Barca refused to relent and Suarez turned in from point-blank range after Paco Alcacer flicked on a corner, and Messi made no mistake from the spot in the 75th minute, before adding his 37th LaLiga goal at the end of a fine solo run in stoppage time.
Luis Enrique will now hope to sign off with silverware in the Copa del Rey final against Alaves next weekend.
Barcelona surrendered the LaLiga title to Real Madrid as Luis Enrique's Camp Nou farewell was marked by a thrilling 4-2 come-from-behind victory over 10-man Eibar.
The Catalans needed to win and then hope Madrid lost at Malaga in order to secure a third consecutive league championship, but Zinedine Zidane's side held their nerve to prevail 2-0.
Barca – seeking a 12th straight top-flight home win – were stunned by Takashi Inui's seventh-minute opener, a fine finish that ricocheted in off the underside of the crossbar.
Luis Suarez spurned two glorious chances to level before the interval, with Eibar goalkeeper Yoel helping to preserve a shock lead, while fortune favoured Jose Luis Mendilibar's side when Lionel Messi somehow scuffed wide from six yards in the second half.
That proved costly when Inui crashed in his second off the frame of the goal, but it stirred Barca into life and David Junca's own goal cut the deficit in the 63rd minute.
A blatant dive from Jordi Alba fooled referee Alejandro Hernandez into awarding a penalty, but Yoel acrobatically kept out Messi's effort, only for Suarez to level it up three minutes later.
Messi then atoned for his spot-kick failure by converting another after Neymar had been fouled by Ander Capa, whose red card added to the drama before Messi's late solo goal sealed it.
The home side were without defensive trio Gerard Pique, Javier Mascherano and Jeremy Mathieu, meaning Marlon Santos was selected once more.
It quickly became apparent that Madrid, who needed only a draw, had taken the lead, sapping the optimism out of the Camp Nou crowd.That sense of impending disappointment grew when Inui fired a first-time shot beyond Marc-Andre ter Stegen from Capa's searching cross.
Suarez contrived to fire wide at the other end immediately after, having raced clear with only the goalkeeper to beat.The Uruguayan proved more accurate in the 14th minute, but his goal was ruled out after Alba was adjudged to have strayed offside in the build-up.
Neymar had speculative appeals for a penalty waved away as he went down under minimal contact from Junca.A Sergi Roberto volley called Yoel into his first meaningful action after 33 minutes and the Valencia loanee did brilliantly to repel Suarez's low shot soon after.
Ruben Pena could have made matters even worse for Luis Enrique's men in the final minute of the half, but he failed to turn home the rebound from Inui's saved effort.There was no sign of Eibar trying simply to protect their advantage in the second half, with the lively Inui denied from a tight angle inside 90 seconds of the restart.
It heralded an open start to the second period and Yoel saved smartly from Andres Iniesta's 18-yard drive before keeping out another strike from the Spain legend.
Barca were 4-0 winners in January's reverse fixture, but somehow a breakthrough continued to elude them, Messi remarkably side-footing wide from close range with Yoel laying helplessly on the floor after Suarez's square pass.
That abysmal miss was punished soon after as Inui again confounded Ter Stegen with a rifled shot that cannoned in off the bar to leave the home crowd in disbelief.
They were given a timely boost when Neymar's shot came off the foot of the post and rebounded in off the unfortunate Junca, but Barca then suffered a blow when Messi's penalty was superbly saved, which offered Eibar some justice after Alba's play acting.
Still Barca refused to relent and Suarez turned in from point-blank range after Paco Alcacer flicked on a corner, and Messi made no mistake from the spot in the 75th minute, before adding his 37th LaLiga goal at the end of a fine solo run in stoppage time.
Luis Enrique will now hope to sign off with silverware in the Copa del Rey final against Alaves next weekend.
Lazio 1 Inter 3: Vecchi's men fight back against nine-man hosts
Inter ended an eight-match winless run in Serie A as they came from behind to beat nine-man Lazio 3-1 at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday.The visitors headed into the contest knowing European football was beyond them, city rivals AC Milan having earlier wrapped up the final Europa League spot.
But they still produced an impressive fightback to give caretaker boss Stefano Vecchi something to smile about after his first game following Stefano Pioli's exit ended in a 2-1 loss to Sassuolo.
It had looked as if it was going to be another miserable 90 minutes for the Nerazzurri when Keita Balde put Lazio ahead from the penalty spot in the 18th minute.But Marco Andreolli restored parity and Wesley Hoedt put through his own net as Inter turned the game on its head.
Lazio lost Keita and Senad Lulic in the second half, their dismissals for two bookable offences sandwiching a close-range third from Eder, providing the Inter fans with a rare reason to celebrate.
The opening 17 minutes had seen little incident, but the game was brought to life when Jeison Murillo bundled over Felipe Anderson in the box.Keita made no mistake from the subsequent spot-kick, powering in despite Samir Handanovic diving the correct way.
Inter had threatened little in the way of a response but levelled 13 minutes later through an unlikely source.In a rare show of attacking prowess Andreolli got ahead of his marker and headed into the bottom-left corner from Ivan Perisic's flick-on.
And the turnaround was completed in fortunate circumstances six minutes later as Hoedt inadvertently diverted Antonio Candreva's right-wing delivery into his own net.Another Candreva cross almost resulted in a third for Inter, but Eder was unable to make contact with the goal at his mercy.
Eder curled a free-kick wide two minutes after the restart and wasted a superb chance to make it 3-1 by ballooning over after great work down the right from Candreva.
Inter were almost punished for Eder's profligacy when Keita played in Ciro Immobile, whose fierce effort rattled the crossbar.Lazio continued to press for the equaliser but were dealt a significant blow as Keita was given his marching orders with two cautions in quick succession.
After being booked for a foul on Candreva in the 61st minute, he saw yellow again in the 66th after he was harshly adjudged to have dived under a challenge in the box from Gary Medel.And Inter took advantage eight minutes later, Eder atoning for his earlier misses by turning in the rebound after Hoedt had cleared Perisic's goal-bound effort.
Lazio then found themselves two players down as Lulic, having already been booked for picking up a ball that had not gone out of play, saw yellow for the second time for a foul on Roberto Gagliardini.
From that point there was no way back for the depleted hosts, and they were perhaps fortunate not to concede a fourth when substitute Andrea Pinamonti volleyed narrowly wide late on.
Inter ended an eight-match winless run in Serie A as they came from behind to beat nine-man Lazio 3-1 at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday.The visitors headed into the contest knowing European football was beyond them, city rivals AC Milan having earlier wrapped up the final Europa League spot.
But they still produced an impressive fightback to give caretaker boss Stefano Vecchi something to smile about after his first game following Stefano Pioli's exit ended in a 2-1 loss to Sassuolo.
It had looked as if it was going to be another miserable 90 minutes for the Nerazzurri when Keita Balde put Lazio ahead from the penalty spot in the 18th minute.But Marco Andreolli restored parity and Wesley Hoedt put through his own net as Inter turned the game on its head.
Lazio lost Keita and Senad Lulic in the second half, their dismissals for two bookable offences sandwiching a close-range third from Eder, providing the Inter fans with a rare reason to celebrate.
The opening 17 minutes had seen little incident, but the game was brought to life when Jeison Murillo bundled over Felipe Anderson in the box.Keita made no mistake from the subsequent spot-kick, powering in despite Samir Handanovic diving the correct way.
Inter had threatened little in the way of a response but levelled 13 minutes later through an unlikely source.In a rare show of attacking prowess Andreolli got ahead of his marker and headed into the bottom-left corner from Ivan Perisic's flick-on.
And the turnaround was completed in fortunate circumstances six minutes later as Hoedt inadvertently diverted Antonio Candreva's right-wing delivery into his own net.Another Candreva cross almost resulted in a third for Inter, but Eder was unable to make contact with the goal at his mercy.
Eder curled a free-kick wide two minutes after the restart and wasted a superb chance to make it 3-1 by ballooning over after great work down the right from Candreva.
Inter were almost punished for Eder's profligacy when Keita played in Ciro Immobile, whose fierce effort rattled the crossbar.Lazio continued to press for the equaliser but were dealt a significant blow as Keita was given his marching orders with two cautions in quick succession.
After being booked for a foul on Candreva in the 61st minute, he saw yellow again in the 66th after he was harshly adjudged to have dived under a challenge in the box from Gary Medel.And Inter took advantage eight minutes later, Eder atoning for his earlier misses by turning in the rebound after Hoedt had cleared Perisic's goal-bound effort.
Lazio then found themselves two players down as Lulic, having already been booked for picking up a ball that had not gone out of play, saw yellow for the second time for a foul on Roberto Gagliardini.
From that point there was no way back for the depleted hosts, and they were perhaps fortunate not to concede a fourth when substitute Andrea Pinamonti volleyed narrowly wide late on.
Zidane: Real Madrid players were 'f*****g fantastic'
Zinedine Zidane knew he had to bring an end to Real Madrid's five-year wait to win La Liga and stressed the club always felt clinching the title was most important.
Goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema gave Madrid a 2-0 win at Malaga on Sunday as they became Spanish champions for the first time since 2012.
Zidane, who won the Champions League last season, could repeat the feat against Juventus in the Cardiff final on June 3 to make it a famous double in his first full season at the helm.
But the Madrid head coach is most thrilled to hold off Barcelona domestically and end Madrid's troubling wait for league glory, hailing his players' efforts as "f*****g fantastic".
"I am very happy, 38 match days and at the end of it all we are top," Zidane was quoted by AS after Madrid's 33rd league crown was sealed. "To win it with this game is incredible."It was very important to win the league — it was a lot of years without winning it.
"We knew that the league is everything and when you win it, it is very important.And for Real Madrid, because it is the best club in the world, we have to return with this league title.
"The Spanish league is the most difficult and beautiful in my opinion. As always in a season, we have worked and fought until the end, and with the squad that we have we just had to think of working."
He continued: "It has been a difficult season that we worked hard for, with tough moments. Everyone suffered, fought and ran and I am delighted for everyone.
"They have all been important. The key to everything with this team is that. They were f*****g fantastic."
Zinedine Zidane knew he had to bring an end to Real Madrid's five-year wait to win La Liga and stressed the club always felt clinching the title was most important.
Goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema gave Madrid a 2-0 win at Malaga on Sunday as they became Spanish champions for the first time since 2012.
Zidane, who won the Champions League last season, could repeat the feat against Juventus in the Cardiff final on June 3 to make it a famous double in his first full season at the helm.
But the Madrid head coach is most thrilled to hold off Barcelona domestically and end Madrid's troubling wait for league glory, hailing his players' efforts as "f*****g fantastic".
"I am very happy, 38 match days and at the end of it all we are top," Zidane was quoted by AS after Madrid's 33rd league crown was sealed. "To win it with this game is incredible."It was very important to win the league — it was a lot of years without winning it.
"We knew that the league is everything and when you win it, it is very important.And for Real Madrid, because it is the best club in the world, we have to return with this league title.
"The Spanish league is the most difficult and beautiful in my opinion. As always in a season, we have worked and fought until the end, and with the squad that we have we just had to think of working."
He continued: "It has been a difficult season that we worked hard for, with tough moments. Everyone suffered, fought and ran and I am delighted for everyone.
"They have all been important. The key to everything with this team is that. They were f*****g fantastic."
Luis Enrique: Barca not consistent enough to win La Liga
Luis Enrique conceded Barcelona were not consistent enough to win La Liga after surrendering the title to arch-rivals Real Madrid.
Barca came from behind to beat Eibar 4-2, but their victory was immaterial as Madrid claimed a 2-0 win at Malaga to clinch the trophy for the first time since 2012.
The Copa del Rey final on Saturday is now Barca's only chance of success in Luis Enrique's final season in charge, with the Catalan club having been knocked out of the Champions League in the quarter-finals.
Luis Enrique told reporters: "We have recovered fast after a difficult opening few minutes and the truth is we haven't been consistent enough to win La Liga, especially in our home matches, and in the end we have paid the price.
"I think the team has done a lot of good throughout the season but unfortunately the line between defeat and victory is very marginal. I wish we could keep winning title after title but now we have rivals who want the same things and have reached our level."
On Madrid's success, he said: "When you win La Liga, you are the right winner. We know where we have failed, but that is top competition."Having won the treble in 2014-15, Luis Enrique will be remembered fondly, but he added: "I don't care about [a legacy], I will simply keep the affection that I have received from the players, the club and the fans close to me."
Asked about how his team is better than when he took over, Luis Enrique replied: "Over the course of the three years we have tried to evolve by bringing these players on and continuing to play our football."Barca will be heavy favourites to lift the Copa del Rey against an Alaves side that finished ninth in La Liga.
But Luis Enrique believes the difficulty they had in seeing off Eibar should be a lesson to avoid complacency."We should not forget that Eibar has made things very complicated," he said. "So Alaves can also do it."
Luis Enrique conceded Barcelona were not consistent enough to win La Liga after surrendering the title to arch-rivals Real Madrid.
Barca came from behind to beat Eibar 4-2, but their victory was immaterial as Madrid claimed a 2-0 win at Malaga to clinch the trophy for the first time since 2012.
The Copa del Rey final on Saturday is now Barca's only chance of success in Luis Enrique's final season in charge, with the Catalan club having been knocked out of the Champions League in the quarter-finals.
Luis Enrique told reporters: "We have recovered fast after a difficult opening few minutes and the truth is we haven't been consistent enough to win La Liga, especially in our home matches, and in the end we have paid the price.
"I think the team has done a lot of good throughout the season but unfortunately the line between defeat and victory is very marginal. I wish we could keep winning title after title but now we have rivals who want the same things and have reached our level."
On Madrid's success, he said: "When you win La Liga, you are the right winner. We know where we have failed, but that is top competition."Having won the treble in 2014-15, Luis Enrique will be remembered fondly, but he added: "I don't care about [a legacy], I will simply keep the affection that I have received from the players, the club and the fans close to me."
Asked about how his team is better than when he took over, Luis Enrique replied: "Over the course of the three years we have tried to evolve by bringing these players on and continuing to play our football."Barca will be heavy favourites to lift the Copa del Rey against an Alaves side that finished ninth in La Liga.
But Luis Enrique believes the difficulty they had in seeing off Eibar should be a lesson to avoid complacency."We should not forget that Eibar has made things very complicated," he said. "So Alaves can also do it."
Kane: 'It's massive to win the Golden Boot again'
Harry Kane took pride in the "special" achievement of retaining the Premier League Golden Boot after scoring a second hat-trick this week in Tottenham's 7-1 hammering of relegated Hull City.
Kane netted four as Spurs put Leicester City to the sword 6-1 on Thursday and Mauricio Pochettino's second-placed side underlined there was no hangover associated with missing out on the title to Chelsea as they ran riot at the KCOM Stadium.The England striker's first two arrived inside 13 minutes and he completed his treble as a dispirited Hull faded during the closing stages.
He amassed a haul of 29 goals in 30 Premier League appearances despite two injury absences, ensuring he finished ahead of Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez at the top of the standings.
"To win 7-1 away from home is a great end to a great season for us," Kane told BBC Sport after becoming the first player to retain the top-scorers' gong since Robin van Persie in 2013.
"It's massive to win the Golden Boot again. I said to retain it would be special with the injuries I've had but to score 29 goals in 30 games is something I feel proud of.
"Finishing the season with seven goals in two games is perfect, hopefully I can continue it at the start of next season. When you look at the players behind us, we have a fantastic team."We are delighted with the way we finished."
Harry Kane took pride in the "special" achievement of retaining the Premier League Golden Boot after scoring a second hat-trick this week in Tottenham's 7-1 hammering of relegated Hull City.
Kane netted four as Spurs put Leicester City to the sword 6-1 on Thursday and Mauricio Pochettino's second-placed side underlined there was no hangover associated with missing out on the title to Chelsea as they ran riot at the KCOM Stadium.The England striker's first two arrived inside 13 minutes and he completed his treble as a dispirited Hull faded during the closing stages.
He amassed a haul of 29 goals in 30 Premier League appearances despite two injury absences, ensuring he finished ahead of Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez at the top of the standings.
"To win 7-1 away from home is a great end to a great season for us," Kane told BBC Sport after becoming the first player to retain the top-scorers' gong since Robin van Persie in 2013.
"It's massive to win the Golden Boot again. I said to retain it would be special with the injuries I've had but to score 29 goals in 30 games is something I feel proud of.
"Finishing the season with seven goals in two games is perfect, hopefully I can continue it at the start of next season. When you look at the players behind us, we have a fantastic team."We are delighted with the way we finished."
Barcelona announce when new coach will be named
Barcelona will name Luis Enrique's successor on May 29, club president Josep Maria Bartomeu has revealed.
Sunday's thrilling 4-2 win over Eibar was Luis Enrique's final Camp Nou game at the helm, with Barca surrendering the La Liga title to Real Madrid despite coming from 2-0 down.
He still has next weekend's Copa del Rey final against Alaves to come, but it appears the next incumbent has already been lined up, with Athletic Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde reported to be the one."On Monday 29 May we will announce the new coach," Bartomeu told Barca TV .
"We thank Luis Enrique for the effort he has put in [and] the demands he placed on himself. The door is open. Now we have the Copa."
Following in the footsteps of Andres Iniesta, Bartomeu congratulated Zinedine Zidane's men on their success following a 2-0 triumph over Malaga.
"Obviously we congratulate the champions and our players for the season they have put in," he said, before insisting Lionel Messi – whose two goals took him to 37 in the league this season – would remain at the club.He added: "There's no doubt that the marriage between Messi and Barca will continue."
Barcelona will name Luis Enrique's successor on May 29, club president Josep Maria Bartomeu has revealed.
Sunday's thrilling 4-2 win over Eibar was Luis Enrique's final Camp Nou game at the helm, with Barca surrendering the La Liga title to Real Madrid despite coming from 2-0 down.
He still has next weekend's Copa del Rey final against Alaves to come, but it appears the next incumbent has already been lined up, with Athletic Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde reported to be the one."On Monday 29 May we will announce the new coach," Bartomeu told Barca TV .
"We thank Luis Enrique for the effort he has put in [and] the demands he placed on himself. The door is open. Now we have the Copa."
Following in the footsteps of Andres Iniesta, Bartomeu congratulated Zinedine Zidane's men on their success following a 2-0 triumph over Malaga.
"Obviously we congratulate the champions and our players for the season they have put in," he said, before insisting Lionel Messi – whose two goals took him to 37 in the league this season – would remain at the club.He added: "There's no doubt that the marriage between Messi and Barca will continue."
'I'm not a devil' - Ronaldo hits out at critics after firing Madrid to La Liga glory
Cristiano Ronaldo fired a broadside at the media after Real Madrid clinched their 33rd La Liga title, saying: "People talk about me and do not know a damn thing."
Ronaldo was responding to questions about gestures he was alleged to have made toward Celta Vigo's players during Madrid's 4-1 victory on Wednesday, in which he was said to have suggested the home side had been incentivised by third parties to raise their game and derail the capital club's title charge.
The four-time Ballon d'Or winner said the media's portrayal of him was wide of the mark, but stopped short of denying the accusations thrown at him following Madrid's 2-0 win at Malaga on Sunday, which officially dethroned titleholders Barcelona.He told Marca: "People talk about me like I'm a delinquent. I'm not a saint but nor am I a devil. People talk about me and do not know a damn thing.
"I do not watch TV because if I would not have a life, given how much they talk about me badly in football and outside of football. When people talk about Cristiano, he is wrong.
"Football criticism does not worry me because I know that people are going to be silent there. They always have two stones in their hands when I speak.
"I do not like it because I have a family, a mother, a son and I do not like being put like the others when they do stupid things. I do not do nonsense."The 32-year-old, who has scored 14 goals in his last nine games in all competitions for Madrid, reflected on the superb form that helped his side clinch the title ahead of Barca in the final weeks of the season.
The victory over Malaga, in which Ronaldo opened the scoring after two minutes and Karim Benzema doubled the lead 10 minutes into the second half, was Madrid's sixth consecutive league victory and it ensured they ended the season at the top of the table, three points ahead of Barcelona for their first La Liga crown since 2012.
"Since the beginning of the season we have wanted to win the league and we are in luck," said Ronaldo."We have had a spectacular end of the season, the best of recent years. We have had a smarter management, with the help of the coach and the players who have played less."
Looking ahead to the Champions League final on June 3, when Madrid face Juventus in Cardiff, Ronaldo added: "We know it's going to be a very difficult final but we have to enjoy this victory first, after five years without winning a league."
Cristiano Ronaldo fired a broadside at the media after Real Madrid clinched their 33rd La Liga title, saying: "People talk about me and do not know a damn thing."
Ronaldo was responding to questions about gestures he was alleged to have made toward Celta Vigo's players during Madrid's 4-1 victory on Wednesday, in which he was said to have suggested the home side had been incentivised by third parties to raise their game and derail the capital club's title charge.
The four-time Ballon d'Or winner said the media's portrayal of him was wide of the mark, but stopped short of denying the accusations thrown at him following Madrid's 2-0 win at Malaga on Sunday, which officially dethroned titleholders Barcelona.He told Marca: "People talk about me like I'm a delinquent. I'm not a saint but nor am I a devil. People talk about me and do not know a damn thing.
"I do not watch TV because if I would not have a life, given how much they talk about me badly in football and outside of football. When people talk about Cristiano, he is wrong.
"Football criticism does not worry me because I know that people are going to be silent there. They always have two stones in their hands when I speak.
"I do not like it because I have a family, a mother, a son and I do not like being put like the others when they do stupid things. I do not do nonsense."The 32-year-old, who has scored 14 goals in his last nine games in all competitions for Madrid, reflected on the superb form that helped his side clinch the title ahead of Barca in the final weeks of the season.
The victory over Malaga, in which Ronaldo opened the scoring after two minutes and Karim Benzema doubled the lead 10 minutes into the second half, was Madrid's sixth consecutive league victory and it ensured they ended the season at the top of the table, three points ahead of Barcelona for their first La Liga crown since 2012.
"Since the beginning of the season we have wanted to win the league and we are in luck," said Ronaldo."We have had a spectacular end of the season, the best of recent years. We have had a smarter management, with the help of the coach and the players who have played less."
Looking ahead to the Champions League final on June 3, when Madrid face Juventus in Cardiff, Ronaldo added: "We know it's going to be a very difficult final but we have to enjoy this victory first, after five years without winning a league."
Golden Boot winner Kane 'one of the world's best' says Pochettino
Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino hailed Harry Kane after he won the Golden Boot for a second straight Premier League season, but sympathised with Hugo Lloris after the goalkeeper missed out on the Golden Glove.
Kane's hat-trick ensured Spurs thrashed relegated Hull City 7-1 in their last league game of the season, finishing the campaign with 86 points.The England striker netted 29 league goals from 30 appearances, earning huge praise from manager Pochettino, who labelled him one of the world's best strikers.
However, Pochettino did rue Sam Clucas' second-half goal for Hull, which gave the Golden Glove award for the most clean sheets in a season to Chelsea's Thibaut Courtois."I'm very happy for Harry but very disappointed for Hugo," said Pochettino, who also saw Dele Alli, Victor Wanyama, Ben Davies and Toby Alderweireld score.
"The moment we conceded a goal we felt disappointed because he needed another clean sheet to share the Golden Glove with Courtois. It was not possible but I think he would have deserved it."But it is fantastic for Harry. The team-mates and our fans are so, so happy about that.
"I think he deserves it and congratulations to him. He is one of the best strikers in the world. It is hard to say who is the best but he is already one of the best."For Harry, 30 games and 29 goals is unbelievable. The top scorer again. It is a big achievement and it helped the team to play well and achieve second place.
"After he scored the third goal he had a little physical problem so it was a moment to be responsible and safe. I preferred to keep him healthy and instead it is a challenge for him to get 30 goals next season. He can do that."
Pochettino is targeting trophies next season after Spurs' impressive second-place finish in 2016-17.He continued: "This was a different season. We showed that we improved and learned from last season, which is so important for us. We finished how we wanted to and I think it is fantastic.
"Second in the table 86 points should be enough to win the Premier League in another season. "Now for us it is move on, rest, try to improve the squad and try to challenge next season. It will be tough again.
"It is a good platform for us to next season to improve and try to win. In the next few seasons it is so important for us and the fans to win some trophies. We want to fight to win the Premier League next season."I congratulate all the players for a fantastic season. We all feel very proud."
Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino hailed Harry Kane after he won the Golden Boot for a second straight Premier League season, but sympathised with Hugo Lloris after the goalkeeper missed out on the Golden Glove.
Kane's hat-trick ensured Spurs thrashed relegated Hull City 7-1 in their last league game of the season, finishing the campaign with 86 points.The England striker netted 29 league goals from 30 appearances, earning huge praise from manager Pochettino, who labelled him one of the world's best strikers.
However, Pochettino did rue Sam Clucas' second-half goal for Hull, which gave the Golden Glove award for the most clean sheets in a season to Chelsea's Thibaut Courtois."I'm very happy for Harry but very disappointed for Hugo," said Pochettino, who also saw Dele Alli, Victor Wanyama, Ben Davies and Toby Alderweireld score.
"The moment we conceded a goal we felt disappointed because he needed another clean sheet to share the Golden Glove with Courtois. It was not possible but I think he would have deserved it."But it is fantastic for Harry. The team-mates and our fans are so, so happy about that.
"I think he deserves it and congratulations to him. He is one of the best strikers in the world. It is hard to say who is the best but he is already one of the best."For Harry, 30 games and 29 goals is unbelievable. The top scorer again. It is a big achievement and it helped the team to play well and achieve second place.
"After he scored the third goal he had a little physical problem so it was a moment to be responsible and safe. I preferred to keep him healthy and instead it is a challenge for him to get 30 goals next season. He can do that."
Pochettino is targeting trophies next season after Spurs' impressive second-place finish in 2016-17.He continued: "This was a different season. We showed that we improved and learned from last season, which is so important for us. We finished how we wanted to and I think it is fantastic.
"Second in the table 86 points should be enough to win the Premier League in another season. "Now for us it is move on, rest, try to improve the squad and try to challenge next season. It will be tough again.
"It is a good platform for us to next season to improve and try to win. In the next few seasons it is so important for us and the fans to win some trophies. We want to fight to win the Premier League next season."I congratulate all the players for a fantastic season. We all feel very proud."
Man Utd starlet Harrop 'over the moon' after dream debut goal
Josh Harrop said scoring on his Manchester United debut was a "dream come true" after he hit the opening goal against Crystal Palace on Sunday.Harrop was teed up by Paul Pogba but had lots of work to do after 15 minutes at Old Trafford, cutting inside Palace defender Martin Kelly to create an opening for himself.
The 21-year-old - who became the 100th player to score a Premier League goal for Manchester United - bent a terrific finish into the corner to make the perfect start to his United first-team career."I've dreamed about it so many times so, for it to come true, I'm delighted," Harrop told MUTV. "[I'm] over the moon!
"All my family were here, my friends - I'm delighted they could share the moment with me. I've trained since I was eight for this moment so, for it to come true in front of everyone, I'm over the moon, speechless."
Harrop had scored a hat-trick for United's reserve team at Old Trafford in front of the watching Jose Mourinho on Monday, but the boyhood United supporter said early touches of the ball were crucial to settling his nerves."I walked down the tunnel and was getting goosebumps, thinking 'I'm actually doing this'," he said.
"I said to myself, 'I want to get on the ball early and get as many touches as I can'. That's what I did and it helped me progress in the game."I've been played through, cut inside, opened it up and put it in. I took the confidence from my last game with the reserves, when I scored a hat-trick here in front of the manager. That helped me coming into the game as I felt in good form, so it was good for me.
"I can only leave it in the manager's hands. That's what I want to do week in, week out - play at Old Trafford. I've supported United since I was born and it's my dream to be out there playing and scoring."
Josh Harrop said scoring on his Manchester United debut was a "dream come true" after he hit the opening goal against Crystal Palace on Sunday.Harrop was teed up by Paul Pogba but had lots of work to do after 15 minutes at Old Trafford, cutting inside Palace defender Martin Kelly to create an opening for himself.
The 21-year-old - who became the 100th player to score a Premier League goal for Manchester United - bent a terrific finish into the corner to make the perfect start to his United first-team career."I've dreamed about it so many times so, for it to come true, I'm delighted," Harrop told MUTV. "[I'm] over the moon!
"All my family were here, my friends - I'm delighted they could share the moment with me. I've trained since I was eight for this moment so, for it to come true in front of everyone, I'm over the moon, speechless."
Harrop had scored a hat-trick for United's reserve team at Old Trafford in front of the watching Jose Mourinho on Monday, but the boyhood United supporter said early touches of the ball were crucial to settling his nerves."I walked down the tunnel and was getting goosebumps, thinking 'I'm actually doing this'," he said.
"I said to myself, 'I want to get on the ball early and get as many touches as I can'. That's what I did and it helped me progress in the game."I've been played through, cut inside, opened it up and put it in. I took the confidence from my last game with the reserves, when I scored a hat-trick here in front of the manager. That helped me coming into the game as I felt in good form, so it was good for me.
"I can only leave it in the manager's hands. That's what I want to do week in, week out - play at Old Trafford. I've supported United since I was born and it's my dream to be out there playing and scoring."
Monaco won't block Mbappe from making €100m Man Utd or Madrid move
Kylian Mbappe will be allowed to decide his own future, with Monaco owner Dmitry Rybolovlev insisting he will not block any bids for the club’s top talent.
The teenage striker has emerged as one of European football’s most sought-after talents, with his 26-goal haul helping to secure Ligue 1 title glory and a run to the Champions League semi-finals.
Manchester United and Real Madrid are among those reported to be considering big-money summer approaches, with it expected that the €100 million barrier will need to be broken again to get a deal done.
Rybolovlev is reluctant to speculate on the terms which could be tabled, but appreciates that the likes of Mbappe and Tiemoue Bakayoko – who is said to be interesting United, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain – may decide to move on to further their respective careers.He told L’Equipe: “We are not here to decide in the place of men, block them, tell them yes or no.
“We have no budget problem and we are not forced to sell, but the day when a player or coach wants to leave, it’s just unimaginable to keep him against his wishes. We are not Real Madrid or Barcelona or Manchester. Everyone has to cross the road in his career to go even higher. You do not keep a man against his will.“In business, if you go against the market and against the trends, you will always lose. Later, if someone goes, this is not our initiative. You know, [Anthony] Martial, it was he who wanted to leave and we can understand that.”
Having sold Martial to Manchester United in the summer of 2015, Rybolovlev added on talk that Mbappe could generate another sizeable transfer fee for Monaco: “I don’t know, it is the market that decides, and it depends on who is willing to invest in him.
“Anyway, it’s a decision of the player, not the club.”
Kylian Mbappe will be allowed to decide his own future, with Monaco owner Dmitry Rybolovlev insisting he will not block any bids for the club’s top talent.
The teenage striker has emerged as one of European football’s most sought-after talents, with his 26-goal haul helping to secure Ligue 1 title glory and a run to the Champions League semi-finals.
Manchester United and Real Madrid are among those reported to be considering big-money summer approaches, with it expected that the €100 million barrier will need to be broken again to get a deal done.
Rybolovlev is reluctant to speculate on the terms which could be tabled, but appreciates that the likes of Mbappe and Tiemoue Bakayoko – who is said to be interesting United, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain – may decide to move on to further their respective careers.He told L’Equipe: “We are not here to decide in the place of men, block them, tell them yes or no.
“We have no budget problem and we are not forced to sell, but the day when a player or coach wants to leave, it’s just unimaginable to keep him against his wishes. We are not Real Madrid or Barcelona or Manchester. Everyone has to cross the road in his career to go even higher. You do not keep a man against his will.“In business, if you go against the market and against the trends, you will always lose. Later, if someone goes, this is not our initiative. You know, [Anthony] Martial, it was he who wanted to leave and we can understand that.”
Having sold Martial to Manchester United in the summer of 2015, Rybolovlev added on talk that Mbappe could generate another sizeable transfer fee for Monaco: “I don’t know, it is the market that decides, and it depends on who is willing to invest in him.
“Anyway, it’s a decision of the player, not the club.”
Wenger: I've turned down every club in the world to stay at Arsenal
Arsene Wenger’s future at Arsenal remains up in the air, but he claims to have turned down “every club in the world” to remain in north London.
Uncertainty continues to shroud events at Emirates Stadium, despite the 2016-17 Premier League season having come to a close.The Gunners ended that campaign in fifth spot and outside the top four for the first time under their French coach.
They do still have an FA Cup final date with Chelsea to come, but it remains to be seen whether Wenger’s loyalty over the last 21 years will be rewarded with an extension to an expiring contract.
Pressed again on the subject of his future after a 3-1 victory over Everton, the 67-year-old told BBC Sport: "I was focused on my job. I am professional. I love this club enough to do my best every single day.“One thing you cannot question is my love for this club. I've turned down every club in the world to stay here.”
Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke is likely to have the final say on whether Wenger stays or goes.The American businessman has also faced criticism over recent weeks after seeing the Gunners slip out of Champions League contention, but Wenger insists everyone connected with the club has been doing the best they can during a difficult period in which their every move has been dissected in minute detail.
He added: “I respect Stan Kroenke a lot. He’s not at fault if we didn’t reach the Champions League. It’s the technical department that is responsible for that.“Is he committed? That’s not my problem. I think a club works when everybody does his job.
“We live in a society where everybody has an opinion. They do little and they talk a lot. That doesn’t move the society forward. What moves the society forward is people who work, really hard, and talk not too much.”
Arsene Wenger’s future at Arsenal remains up in the air, but he claims to have turned down “every club in the world” to remain in north London.
Uncertainty continues to shroud events at Emirates Stadium, despite the 2016-17 Premier League season having come to a close.The Gunners ended that campaign in fifth spot and outside the top four for the first time under their French coach.
They do still have an FA Cup final date with Chelsea to come, but it remains to be seen whether Wenger’s loyalty over the last 21 years will be rewarded with an extension to an expiring contract.
Pressed again on the subject of his future after a 3-1 victory over Everton, the 67-year-old told BBC Sport: "I was focused on my job. I am professional. I love this club enough to do my best every single day.“One thing you cannot question is my love for this club. I've turned down every club in the world to stay here.”
Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke is likely to have the final say on whether Wenger stays or goes.The American businessman has also faced criticism over recent weeks after seeing the Gunners slip out of Champions League contention, but Wenger insists everyone connected with the club has been doing the best they can during a difficult period in which their every move has been dissected in minute detail.
He added: “I respect Stan Kroenke a lot. He’s not at fault if we didn’t reach the Champions League. It’s the technical department that is responsible for that.“Is he committed? That’s not my problem. I think a club works when everybody does his job.
“We live in a society where everybody has an opinion. They do little and they talk a lot. That doesn’t move the society forward. What moves the society forward is people who work, really hard, and talk not too much.”
'Forget Lukaku and get Bale, Griezmann or Mbappe' - Neville offers Man Utd transfer advice
Romelu Lukaku is not a “big-game player” and Manchester United should target Gareth Bale or Antoine Griezmann instead, says Phil Neville.The Red Devils are expected to be in the market for added firepower this summer, with another big transfer window in store at Old Trafford.
Several leading marksmen from across Europe have been touted as potential targets, with Everton’s £100 million valuation of Lukaku doing little to curb interest in his services.The Belgian is, however, considered to be the wrong choice for United, with star turns in Madrid at Real and Atletico seen as better fits for Jose Mourinho.
Former Premier League title winner Neville told talkSPORT: “I’m not so sure [Lukaku would fit in].“I would prefer United to go out and get Gareth Bale or Antoine Griezmann, I really would.
“I have watched Lukaku and I am a big fan, but I see him in the big games and I don’t see a player that grabs and wins a big game on his own.“I still think there are question marks against Lukaku. Jose sold him and he didn’t play that much at Chelsea, so he knows him well.
“I think the ideal signing would be Harry Kane – but I don’t think United will get him. But Griezmann and Bale, I think these are the players that can take United closer to winning the Premier League.”
Neville also believes that Monaco’s teenage sensation Kylian Mbappe could come into the equation if United want to spend big on an option for the present and future.He added: “I think United are probably one of the only ones who can afford to pay for him, you are talking maybe £100m.
“I have watched him twice, against Tottenham and against Man City, and I have never seen pace like it.“He will be bought, but rumour has it he will be staying in Monaco for one more season.
“Look, he is still young enough to develop there and I am sure we will see him in the Premier League sooner rather than later.”
Romelu Lukaku is not a “big-game player” and Manchester United should target Gareth Bale or Antoine Griezmann instead, says Phil Neville.The Red Devils are expected to be in the market for added firepower this summer, with another big transfer window in store at Old Trafford.
Several leading marksmen from across Europe have been touted as potential targets, with Everton’s £100 million valuation of Lukaku doing little to curb interest in his services.The Belgian is, however, considered to be the wrong choice for United, with star turns in Madrid at Real and Atletico seen as better fits for Jose Mourinho.
Former Premier League title winner Neville told talkSPORT: “I’m not so sure [Lukaku would fit in].“I would prefer United to go out and get Gareth Bale or Antoine Griezmann, I really would.
“I have watched Lukaku and I am a big fan, but I see him in the big games and I don’t see a player that grabs and wins a big game on his own.“I still think there are question marks against Lukaku. Jose sold him and he didn’t play that much at Chelsea, so he knows him well.
“I think the ideal signing would be Harry Kane – but I don’t think United will get him. But Griezmann and Bale, I think these are the players that can take United closer to winning the Premier League.”
Neville also believes that Monaco’s teenage sensation Kylian Mbappe could come into the equation if United want to spend big on an option for the present and future.He added: “I think United are probably one of the only ones who can afford to pay for him, you are talking maybe £100m.
“I have watched him twice, against Tottenham and against Man City, and I have never seen pace like it.“He will be bought, but rumour has it he will be staying in Monaco for one more season.
“Look, he is still young enough to develop there and I am sure we will see him in the Premier League sooner rather than later.”
Keisuke Honda confirms AC Milan exit
Keisuke Honda has confirmed he is to leave AC Milan at the end of the season, having scored against Bologna on Sunday.
Milan sealed a sixth-place finish and a spot in next season's Europa League with a 3-0 home Serie A victory, the Japan international netting their second after coming off the substitutes' bench.
But Honda has only made seven league appearances this season, starting once, and will move on after the last match of the club's season against Cagliari on May 28.
"My dearest Milan supporters, thank you," he said in a message on Twitter."It has been a challenging three and a half years but because of that I have been able to grow as a person."I will be leaving Milan after this season, but I look forward to seeing you again soon.
"I may not be a player then, who knows in what way we will meet. In the meantime, I will continue to work hard every day to achieve my goals. Forza Milan!"
Honda, 30, joined Milan from CSKA Moscow in January 2014.His announcement comes as Milan close in on the signing of Villarreal defender Mateo Musacchio, who is undergoing a medical with the club.
Keisuke Honda has confirmed he is to leave AC Milan at the end of the season, having scored against Bologna on Sunday.
Milan sealed a sixth-place finish and a spot in next season's Europa League with a 3-0 home Serie A victory, the Japan international netting their second after coming off the substitutes' bench.
But Honda has only made seven league appearances this season, starting once, and will move on after the last match of the club's season against Cagliari on May 28.
"My dearest Milan supporters, thank you," he said in a message on Twitter."It has been a challenging three and a half years but because of that I have been able to grow as a person."I will be leaving Milan after this season, but I look forward to seeing you again soon.
"I may not be a player then, who knows in what way we will meet. In the meantime, I will continue to work hard every day to achieve my goals. Forza Milan!"
Honda, 30, joined Milan from CSKA Moscow in January 2014.His announcement comes as Milan close in on the signing of Villarreal defender Mateo Musacchio, who is undergoing a medical with the club.
Moyes resigns as Sunderland boss after Premier League relegation
David Moyes has resigned as Sunderland manager, the club have confirmed.
Is error-strewn Hart worth the risk?Moyes informed Black Cats owner Ellis Short of his intention to leave the post at a meeting in London on Monday, a day after Sunderland's dismal Premier League season came to a fitting end with a 5-1 thrashing at champions Chelsea.
In a statement Short said: "I pursued the services of David Moyes for a considerable period prior to his appointment last summer, which makes the announcement of his departure difficult for everyone concerned.
"Having worked tirelessly throughout the campaign to avoid relegation from the Premier League, David has chosen to leave the club without compensation, which is testament to his character.
"In the days ahead we will take some time for reflection, and then focus on recruitment and pre-season as we prepare for our Championship campaign. We wish David well in the future."
Moyes himself said: "I would like to thank Ellis Short and the board for giving me the opportunity to manage Sunderland and the fans for always being so passionately supportive of their club.
"I wish the players and my successor well in their efforts towards promotion back to the Premier League."Moyes signed a four-year deal in July 2016 with Short admitting at the time he had pursued the Scotsman before hiring the previous five bosses at the Stadium of Light.
Yet the 54-year-old rarely looked a good fit on Wearside with his early declaration that the club should expect to fight relegation quickly evaporating any buoyancy among the fans following a strong finish to the 2015-16 campaign under Sam Allardyce.
Allardyce's departure for a short-lived, and ill-fated, spell with the England national team saw Moyes appointed with a personal mission to erase the memory of disappointing tenures at Manchester United and Real Sociedad after he made his name at first Preston North End and then Everton.
Sunderland finished rock bottom in the top flight in Moyes' sole season in charge, 16 points from safety, and will go into the Championship seeking their eighth full-time manager in sixth years.
Former Leicester City and Derby County boss Nigel Pearson is among those to have been linked with the job in recent weeks with uncertainty surrounding Moyes' position.
David Moyes has resigned as Sunderland manager, the club have confirmed.
Is error-strewn Hart worth the risk?Moyes informed Black Cats owner Ellis Short of his intention to leave the post at a meeting in London on Monday, a day after Sunderland's dismal Premier League season came to a fitting end with a 5-1 thrashing at champions Chelsea.
In a statement Short said: "I pursued the services of David Moyes for a considerable period prior to his appointment last summer, which makes the announcement of his departure difficult for everyone concerned.
"Having worked tirelessly throughout the campaign to avoid relegation from the Premier League, David has chosen to leave the club without compensation, which is testament to his character.
"In the days ahead we will take some time for reflection, and then focus on recruitment and pre-season as we prepare for our Championship campaign. We wish David well in the future."
Moyes himself said: "I would like to thank Ellis Short and the board for giving me the opportunity to manage Sunderland and the fans for always being so passionately supportive of their club.
"I wish the players and my successor well in their efforts towards promotion back to the Premier League."Moyes signed a four-year deal in July 2016 with Short admitting at the time he had pursued the Scotsman before hiring the previous five bosses at the Stadium of Light.
Yet the 54-year-old rarely looked a good fit on Wearside with his early declaration that the club should expect to fight relegation quickly evaporating any buoyancy among the fans following a strong finish to the 2015-16 campaign under Sam Allardyce.
Allardyce's departure for a short-lived, and ill-fated, spell with the England national team saw Moyes appointed with a personal mission to erase the memory of disappointing tenures at Manchester United and Real Sociedad after he made his name at first Preston North End and then Everton.
Sunderland finished rock bottom in the top flight in Moyes' sole season in charge, 16 points from safety, and will go into the Championship seeking their eighth full-time manager in sixth years.
Former Leicester City and Derby County boss Nigel Pearson is among those to have been linked with the job in recent weeks with uncertainty surrounding Moyes' position.
OFFICIAL: Juventus complete permanent Cuadrado deal
Juventus have completed the permanent signing of Chelsea midfielder Juan Cuadrado in a deal worth €20 million.The Colombia international has signed a three-year deal with the Serie A champions after spending the past two seasons on loan in Turin.
Cuadrado has helped the Bianconeri win back-to-back Scudetti and Coppas de Italia as well as playing his part in their run to the Champions League final this season.And after two fine seasons out on loan, Juve have made use of their option on the star to bring him back to Serie A on a permanent basis.
"Juventus announce that, after pre-contract terms were met, they have taken up the option to sign Juan Guillermo Cuadrado Bello from Chelsea," the club confirmed in a statement released on Monday.
"The fee in line with the agreement is €20 million payable in three installments from the coming 2017-18 season."Juventus and the player have in turn signed a contract until June 2020."Cuadrado moved to Chelsea in February 2015 after impressing with Fiorentina.
The midfielder, however, failed to adapt to life in the Premier League, and made just 15 appearances in all competitions for the Blues before being loaned out to Juventus at the start of the 2015-16 season.
He has scored eight goals in 83 appearances for Massimiliano Allegri's side having been deemed surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge.
Juventus have completed the permanent signing of Chelsea midfielder Juan Cuadrado in a deal worth €20 million.The Colombia international has signed a three-year deal with the Serie A champions after spending the past two seasons on loan in Turin.
Cuadrado has helped the Bianconeri win back-to-back Scudetti and Coppas de Italia as well as playing his part in their run to the Champions League final this season.And after two fine seasons out on loan, Juve have made use of their option on the star to bring him back to Serie A on a permanent basis.
"Juventus announce that, after pre-contract terms were met, they have taken up the option to sign Juan Guillermo Cuadrado Bello from Chelsea," the club confirmed in a statement released on Monday.
"The fee in line with the agreement is €20 million payable in three installments from the coming 2017-18 season."Juventus and the player have in turn signed a contract until June 2020."Cuadrado moved to Chelsea in February 2015 after impressing with Fiorentina.
The midfielder, however, failed to adapt to life in the Premier League, and made just 15 appearances in all competitions for the Blues before being loaned out to Juventus at the start of the 2015-16 season.
He has scored eight goals in 83 appearances for Massimiliano Allegri's side having been deemed surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge.
Griezmann admits 'six out of ten' chance of joining Man Utd
Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann has admitted there is a "six out of 10" chance that he will join Manchester United this summer.
The France international has long been linked with the Old Trafford outfit, and Red Devils boss Jose Mourinho is keen to add the player to his squad.
And now Griezmann has revealed there is a real chance of him moving to the Europa League finalists, with his future set to be finalised in the next fortnight."My future will be decided within two weeks, " he told French television show, Quotidien.
He was then asked what the possibility of him joining United this summer would be out of 10, he replied "six".
Some reports have suggested Griezmann will only sign for United if they can secure Champions League football for next season.But Goal understands this is not the case, meaning defeat to Ajax on Wednesday evening would not necessarily end their chances of bringing Griezmann to the Theatre of Dreams.
The former Real Sociedad forward would likely cost in the region of €80 million should United make a bid.
Man Utd starlet Angel Gomes 'honoured' to follow in footsteps of Duncan Edwards
Angel Gomes says he is honoured to become the youngest player to represent Manchester United since club legend Duncan Edwards.The 16-year-old replaced Wayne Rooney in the 88th minute of Sunday's 2-0 home win over Crystal Palace, making his debut for the club.
As well as becoming the first Premier League player to be born in the year 2000, Gomes – a cousin of former United winger Nani – was the youngest to represent the club since Edwards' debut in 1953.
Gomes told MUTV: "Duncan Edwards was a great player and a United legend.
"He started playing when he was young and it is an honour to be the youngest since him."
Gomes had a rollercoaster week, being named the youngest-ever winner of United's Youth Team Player of the Year accolade before being drafted in by Jose Mourinho for the squad to face Palace.He added: "Obviously, it's a dream come true. I have been here since the age of six working my way up and it's what everyone dreams about.
"I just want to thank the manager for putting me on the bench and playing me, and all the staff back at the club and everyone who has helped me."I'm from Manchester, Salford and it's literally down the road. It's just unbelievable.
"It happened so quickly, really, from Thursday [getting the award] to Sunday, training on Friday and making an impression in Saturday's training before being named on the bench and coming on.
"My family were in the crowd. I was fortunate to get 10 tickets for all my family and I saw them in the corner when I was warming up and gave them a little thumbs-up. It was amazing.
"I felt the players made it easy for me really. Before coming on, I was speaking to Michael Carrick about how to get into the pockets and stuff and he helped me out a lot when I came on.
"He just kept trying to pass to me so I was happy and all the lads supported me and helped me, telling me what to do so I thank them for that."The attacking midfielder has been tipped as a future star, with United's Under-23 coach Nicky Butt describing his talent as "ridiculous".
Asked about next season, Gomes added: "I don't know what the future plans are but I just want to continue playing, whether it's in the Under-18s or Under-23s.
"I just want to stay with the good habits and carry on pushing really. Who knows?"
Angel Gomes says he is honoured to become the youngest player to represent Manchester United since club legend Duncan Edwards.The 16-year-old replaced Wayne Rooney in the 88th minute of Sunday's 2-0 home win over Crystal Palace, making his debut for the club.
As well as becoming the first Premier League player to be born in the year 2000, Gomes – a cousin of former United winger Nani – was the youngest to represent the club since Edwards' debut in 1953.
Gomes told MUTV: "Duncan Edwards was a great player and a United legend.
"He started playing when he was young and it is an honour to be the youngest since him."
Gomes had a rollercoaster week, being named the youngest-ever winner of United's Youth Team Player of the Year accolade before being drafted in by Jose Mourinho for the squad to face Palace.He added: "Obviously, it's a dream come true. I have been here since the age of six working my way up and it's what everyone dreams about.
"I just want to thank the manager for putting me on the bench and playing me, and all the staff back at the club and everyone who has helped me."I'm from Manchester, Salford and it's literally down the road. It's just unbelievable.
"It happened so quickly, really, from Thursday [getting the award] to Sunday, training on Friday and making an impression in Saturday's training before being named on the bench and coming on.
"My family were in the crowd. I was fortunate to get 10 tickets for all my family and I saw them in the corner when I was warming up and gave them a little thumbs-up. It was amazing.
"I felt the players made it easy for me really. Before coming on, I was speaking to Michael Carrick about how to get into the pockets and stuff and he helped me out a lot when I came on.
"He just kept trying to pass to me so I was happy and all the lads supported me and helped me, telling me what to do so I thank them for that."The attacking midfielder has been tipped as a future star, with United's Under-23 coach Nicky Butt describing his talent as "ridiculous".
Asked about next season, Gomes added: "I don't know what the future plans are but I just want to continue playing, whether it's in the Under-18s or Under-23s.
"I just want to stay with the good habits and carry on pushing really. Who knows?"
