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Sevilla vs Atletico Madrid 3-1 | RESUMEN DEL PARTIDO | GOALS & HIGHLIGHTS | COPA DEL REY | 2017/18
Real Madrid 1 Leganes 2 (2-2 agg): Zidane's woes deepen with shock Copa exit
Real Madrid were dumped out of the Copa del Rey at the quarter-final stage by Leganes on Wednesday as a 2-1 win at the Santiago Bernabeu proved enough to secure the visitors a famous victory on away goals.
Zinedine Zidane's men have now lost three of their last five home matches in all competitions and, with a 19-point gap to make up on rivals Barcelona in LaLiga, this was their last realistic chance of claiming domestic silverware and pressure on the Frenchman will inevitably grow further.Marco Asensio's late strike had given Madrid a narrow 1-0 advantage in the first leg, but Javier Eraso's brilliant 25-yard curler got Leganes back on level terms and set the tone for a memorable cup tie.
Madrid were back in front inside two minutes of the second half, the fit-again Karim Benzema scoring his first goal since November after being set up by Lucas Vazquez.
The script said Madrid would serenely close out the tie from there but Leganes had not read it, a thunderous Gabriel Pires header from Eraso's corner putting them back ahead on the night and in front in the tie for the first time.
Leganes had never been to the quarter-finals of the Copa before, but they fully deserved to progress to the last four after holding Madrid - who were without Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale - at bay despite coming under intense late pressure.
Asier Garitano's men caused Madrid plenty of problems in the opening leg and they almost scored in the fifth minute here, Claudio Beauvue's free-kick clipping the outside of the post.Darko Brasanac and Gabriel sent efforts straight at Kiko Casilla as Leganes continued to make the running, the visitors scoring the goal their performance deserved in the 31st minute.
Achraf Hakimi's loose pass put Nacho Fernandez in trouble and Eraso pounced, seizing the ball, striding into space and lashing a 25-yard drive that curled into Casilla's top-right corner.
Isco delivered a sublime right-wing cross Benzema which narrowly failed to meet before Leganes almost scored a spectacular second on the stroke of half-time, Beauvue's scissor-kick flying wide of the post.
Benzema was making his first Madrid start for a month and it was the France forward who got Madrid back on terms almost immediately after the interval. Vazquez sent his team-mate into the box and Benzema beat Nereo Champagne with a cute chipped finish from a tight angle to restore Madrid's one-goal aggregate advantage.
But Leganes regained the lead eight minutes later as Eraso's corner was perfect for Gabriel to get clear of Theo Hernandez and thump a rocket of a header that flew past Casilla to send the visiting fans wild.Zidane sent on Luka Modric and Dani Carvajal in a desperate attempt to save his chances of claiming a first Copa title as either a player or manager, but Isco fired over the angle after 72 minutes.
Champagne brilliantly denied Benzema and superbly tipped over a Sergio Ramos header as Madrid threw everything at Leganes, but Zidane's men could not force a late goal to avoid suffering a humiliating exit.
Real Madrid were dumped out of the Copa del Rey at the quarter-final stage by Leganes on Wednesday as a 2-1 win at the Santiago Bernabeu proved enough to secure the visitors a famous victory on away goals.
Zinedine Zidane's men have now lost three of their last five home matches in all competitions and, with a 19-point gap to make up on rivals Barcelona in LaLiga, this was their last realistic chance of claiming domestic silverware and pressure on the Frenchman will inevitably grow further.Marco Asensio's late strike had given Madrid a narrow 1-0 advantage in the first leg, but Javier Eraso's brilliant 25-yard curler got Leganes back on level terms and set the tone for a memorable cup tie.
Madrid were back in front inside two minutes of the second half, the fit-again Karim Benzema scoring his first goal since November after being set up by Lucas Vazquez.
The script said Madrid would serenely close out the tie from there but Leganes had not read it, a thunderous Gabriel Pires header from Eraso's corner putting them back ahead on the night and in front in the tie for the first time.
Leganes had never been to the quarter-finals of the Copa before, but they fully deserved to progress to the last four after holding Madrid - who were without Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale - at bay despite coming under intense late pressure.
Asier Garitano's men caused Madrid plenty of problems in the opening leg and they almost scored in the fifth minute here, Claudio Beauvue's free-kick clipping the outside of the post.Darko Brasanac and Gabriel sent efforts straight at Kiko Casilla as Leganes continued to make the running, the visitors scoring the goal their performance deserved in the 31st minute.
Achraf Hakimi's loose pass put Nacho Fernandez in trouble and Eraso pounced, seizing the ball, striding into space and lashing a 25-yard drive that curled into Casilla's top-right corner.
Isco delivered a sublime right-wing cross Benzema which narrowly failed to meet before Leganes almost scored a spectacular second on the stroke of half-time, Beauvue's scissor-kick flying wide of the post.
Benzema was making his first Madrid start for a month and it was the France forward who got Madrid back on terms almost immediately after the interval. Vazquez sent his team-mate into the box and Benzema beat Nereo Champagne with a cute chipped finish from a tight angle to restore Madrid's one-goal aggregate advantage.
But Leganes regained the lead eight minutes later as Eraso's corner was perfect for Gabriel to get clear of Theo Hernandez and thump a rocket of a header that flew past Casilla to send the visiting fans wild.Zidane sent on Luka Modric and Dani Carvajal in a desperate attempt to save his chances of claiming a first Copa title as either a player or manager, but Isco fired over the angle after 72 minutes.
Champagne brilliantly denied Benzema and superbly tipped over a Sergio Ramos header as Madrid threw everything at Leganes, but Zidane's men could not force a late goal to avoid suffering a humiliating exit.
Arsenal 2 Chelsea 1 (2-1 agg): Xhaka completes turnaround to book EFL Cup final spot
Arsenal came from behind to beat Chelsea 2-1 and set up an EFL Cup final clash with Manchester City thanks to Granit Xhaka's second-half winner at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.
The 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge set the second leg up nicely and, although neither side was at their best, Arsenal showed the greater character in their first outing since Alexis Sanchez's departure as they battled back from an early deficit to book their passage to Wembley.The opening exchanges were particularly eventful as Pedro saw a goal chalked off just before setting up Eden Hazard for the opener after only seven minutes.
An Arsenal equaliser followed soon after, though, as Antonio Rudiger scored an own goal that he knew little about, with Nacho Monreal's header hitting Marcos Alonso and then going in off the German.
The second period was rather less open as the contest became more bogged down in midfield, but Arsenal - who were without the cup-tied Henrikh Mkhitaryan - took full advantage when a chance presented itself on the hour as Xhaka prodded Arsene Wenger's men into the lead.
Chelsea poured men forward towards the end in a desperate attempt to force an extra 30 minutes and that almost allowed Arsenal to get a third through Alex Iwobi, though the Gunners were not made to rue his miss as they successfully held on to set up a finale with City on February 25.Antonio Conte's side made a purposeful start and appeared to catch Arsenal off guard with their early intent.
Pedro saw a goal correctly disallowed for offside five minutes in, but that was a warning Arsenal failed to heed and Chelsea were not to be denied soon afterwards.The Spaniard was at the heart of things again, turning provider as he fed Hazard between Laurent Koscielny and Monreal for the Belgian to coolly find the bottom-left corner.
Their lead was short-lived thanks to a fortuitous equaliser in the 12th minute, however, Monreal's header deflecting off Alonso and the unfortunate Rudiger before beating Willy Caballero.
Chelsea suffered the blow of losing Willian to injury after half an hour, allowing Ross Barkley to enter for his debut following a £15million move from Everton.But one of his first involvements saw him concede a free-kick from which Xhaka went close.
And Chelsea survived again just before the break as Mesut Ozil's deflected effort went agonisingly wide of the left-hand post.Things were tighter at both ends upon the restart, with the next opportunity not arriving until the 57th minute when Cesar Azpilicueta cleared Iwobi's cut-back narrowly over his own goal.
But Arsenal's second did arrive promptly as Alexandre Lacazette saw his low cross deflect off the hapless Rudiger into the danger zone and Xhaka was there to stab home from close range.Iwobi should have put the contest beyond Chelsea 14 minutes from time, but he shot straight at Caballero with just the goalkeeper to beat.
Chelsea enjoyed some late pressure and Rudiger could have levelled eight minutes from the end when he met Hazard's corner, but he headed over and Arsenal ultimately held on without undue cause for concern.
Arsenal came from behind to beat Chelsea 2-1 and set up an EFL Cup final clash with Manchester City thanks to Granit Xhaka's second-half winner at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.
The 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge set the second leg up nicely and, although neither side was at their best, Arsenal showed the greater character in their first outing since Alexis Sanchez's departure as they battled back from an early deficit to book their passage to Wembley.The opening exchanges were particularly eventful as Pedro saw a goal chalked off just before setting up Eden Hazard for the opener after only seven minutes.
An Arsenal equaliser followed soon after, though, as Antonio Rudiger scored an own goal that he knew little about, with Nacho Monreal's header hitting Marcos Alonso and then going in off the German.
The second period was rather less open as the contest became more bogged down in midfield, but Arsenal - who were without the cup-tied Henrikh Mkhitaryan - took full advantage when a chance presented itself on the hour as Xhaka prodded Arsene Wenger's men into the lead.
Chelsea poured men forward towards the end in a desperate attempt to force an extra 30 minutes and that almost allowed Arsenal to get a third through Alex Iwobi, though the Gunners were not made to rue his miss as they successfully held on to set up a finale with City on February 25.Antonio Conte's side made a purposeful start and appeared to catch Arsenal off guard with their early intent.
Pedro saw a goal correctly disallowed for offside five minutes in, but that was a warning Arsenal failed to heed and Chelsea were not to be denied soon afterwards.The Spaniard was at the heart of things again, turning provider as he fed Hazard between Laurent Koscielny and Monreal for the Belgian to coolly find the bottom-left corner.
Their lead was short-lived thanks to a fortuitous equaliser in the 12th minute, however, Monreal's header deflecting off Alonso and the unfortunate Rudiger before beating Willy Caballero.
Chelsea suffered the blow of losing Willian to injury after half an hour, allowing Ross Barkley to enter for his debut following a £15million move from Everton.But one of his first involvements saw him concede a free-kick from which Xhaka went close.
And Chelsea survived again just before the break as Mesut Ozil's deflected effort went agonisingly wide of the left-hand post.Things were tighter at both ends upon the restart, with the next opportunity not arriving until the 57th minute when Cesar Azpilicueta cleared Iwobi's cut-back narrowly over his own goal.
But Arsenal's second did arrive promptly as Alexandre Lacazette saw his low cross deflect off the hapless Rudiger into the danger zone and Xhaka was there to stab home from close range.Iwobi should have put the contest beyond Chelsea 14 minutes from time, but he shot straight at Caballero with just the goalkeeper to beat.
Chelsea enjoyed some late pressure and Rudiger could have levelled eight minutes from the end when he met Hazard's corner, but he headed over and Arsenal ultimately held on without undue cause for concern.
Paris Saint-Germain 4 Guingamp 2: Holders progress as Cavani's wait goes on
Paris Saint-Germain bounced back to winning ways with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Guingamp in the Coupe de France on Wednesday.Beaten away to Lyon in Ligue 1 action on Sunday, Unai Emery's men were forced to battle hard in staving off the plucky visitors as they eventually booked a place in the last 16.
The celebrations were particularly muted for an off-colour Edinson Cavani as the Uruguay international's wayward finishing, and Karl-Johan Johnsson's inspired goalkeeping, prolonged his wait to become PSG's all-time leading scorer.Instead, it was an Adrien Rabiot header and a Lucas Deaux own goal in the space of four minutes that gave the hosts a two-goal lead midway through the opening period.
Marcus Thuram pulled one back from the spot late in the half and, after Javier Pastore restored the two-goal advantage after the break, Guingamp gained another glimmer of hope courtesy of Yeni N'Gbakoto's penalty.That was to be the last of their joy, with Marquinhos heading in a late corner to confirm the holders' progression in spite of their star forward Cavani's worrying performance.
All eyes were on Cavani from the outset as he began his second attempt to break the record and his big moment appeared to have arrived in just the ninth minute, only for him to head wide from Yuri Berchiche's enticing cross.Guingamp failed to punish that miss as, on the end of a counter-attack, Marcus Coco compounded a heavy touch by blasting his close-range finish over the bar.
Cavani's own loose control soon denied him another attempt on goal, but PSG did not have to wait long for their opener. Rabiot lost Jordan Ikoko at a 21st-minute corner and powerfully headed home Angel Di Maria's in-swinger.And it was two in fewer than five minutes when the visitors were confounded once more by a Di Maria set-piece, midfielder Deaux this time diverting the low delivery into his own net.
Cavani's all-action first half continued with him inadvertently handling another good chance, before Guingamp goalkeeper Johnsson smartly tipped a dipping effort over the bar.
That save soon took on extra importance when a fast-arriving N'Gbakoto was adjudged to have been brought down in the area by Kevin Trapp, enabling Thuram to reduce the deficit from the spot.Emery's side set about nixing any comeback after the restart, but Cavani's frustration only grew as Johnsson added to his highlight reel with a succession of stunning saves.
However, there was little the shot stopper could do to stop Pastore from nodding in Julian Draxler's cross to restore the two-goal margin in the 64th minute.Cavani next scuppered a one-on-one by bizarrely looking to offload the chance, and that allowed Guingamp to again claw their way back into the contest with N'Gbakoto converting a spot-kick following Thomas Meunier's clumsy challenge on Coco.
But an engrossing match was finally put to bed late in normal time, Brazil defender Marquinhos heading in another Di Maria corner to put the seal on victory.
Paris Saint-Germain bounced back to winning ways with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Guingamp in the Coupe de France on Wednesday.Beaten away to Lyon in Ligue 1 action on Sunday, Unai Emery's men were forced to battle hard in staving off the plucky visitors as they eventually booked a place in the last 16.
The celebrations were particularly muted for an off-colour Edinson Cavani as the Uruguay international's wayward finishing, and Karl-Johan Johnsson's inspired goalkeeping, prolonged his wait to become PSG's all-time leading scorer.Instead, it was an Adrien Rabiot header and a Lucas Deaux own goal in the space of four minutes that gave the hosts a two-goal lead midway through the opening period.
Marcus Thuram pulled one back from the spot late in the half and, after Javier Pastore restored the two-goal advantage after the break, Guingamp gained another glimmer of hope courtesy of Yeni N'Gbakoto's penalty.That was to be the last of their joy, with Marquinhos heading in a late corner to confirm the holders' progression in spite of their star forward Cavani's worrying performance.
All eyes were on Cavani from the outset as he began his second attempt to break the record and his big moment appeared to have arrived in just the ninth minute, only for him to head wide from Yuri Berchiche's enticing cross.Guingamp failed to punish that miss as, on the end of a counter-attack, Marcus Coco compounded a heavy touch by blasting his close-range finish over the bar.
Cavani's own loose control soon denied him another attempt on goal, but PSG did not have to wait long for their opener. Rabiot lost Jordan Ikoko at a 21st-minute corner and powerfully headed home Angel Di Maria's in-swinger.And it was two in fewer than five minutes when the visitors were confounded once more by a Di Maria set-piece, midfielder Deaux this time diverting the low delivery into his own net.
Cavani's all-action first half continued with him inadvertently handling another good chance, before Guingamp goalkeeper Johnsson smartly tipped a dipping effort over the bar.
That save soon took on extra importance when a fast-arriving N'Gbakoto was adjudged to have been brought down in the area by Kevin Trapp, enabling Thuram to reduce the deficit from the spot.Emery's side set about nixing any comeback after the restart, but Cavani's frustration only grew as Johnsson added to his highlight reel with a succession of stunning saves.
However, there was little the shot stopper could do to stop Pastore from nodding in Julian Draxler's cross to restore the two-goal margin in the 64th minute.Cavani next scuppered a one-on-one by bizarrely looking to offload the chance, and that allowed Guingamp to again claw their way back into the contest with N'Gbakoto converting a spot-kick following Thomas Meunier's clumsy challenge on Coco.
But an engrossing match was finally put to bed late in normal time, Brazil defender Marquinhos heading in another Di Maria corner to put the seal on victory.
Valverde open to further Barcelona signings in January
Ernesto Valverde is open to making more Barcelona signings during the January transfer window.
Philippe Coutinho's arrival from Liverpool broke the club's transfer record, while Yerry Mina was brought in from Palmeiras to boost Barca's defensive options.With Arda Turan and Javier Mascherano leaving Camp Nou for Istanbul Basaksehir and Hebei China Fortune respectively, the club have made two signings to replace two outgoings.
And while Valverde is not pushing the Barcelona board for more arrivals, the coach conceded more movement is possible in the last week of the transfer window.
"I'm happy with the team we have but until the transfer market is over nothing is out of the question," Valverde said. "Not just for us but for every team. Things could change."I don't know what's going to happen between now and the end of the window but in principle I am happy with the squad I have.
"With Yerry Mina, we know we want him to help us this season. And he could enter the squad, we are contemplating it. We want him to get some confidence, but we're still a little anxious to see what he can give us. He needs to spend some time adapting to our style of play."
Barca host Catalan rivals Espanyol in the second leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final on Thursday, having suffered a shock 1-0 defeat in last week's opener. And with Barcelona seeking to defend a title they have won in each of the last three seasons, Valverde believes his team will overturn the narrow deficit.
"I've always looked at this derby like a special thing," Valverde told reporters on Wednesday. "The fact we lost the first game there means we may be more motivated.
"This game is always marked on the calendar for both sides. It's a tough game wherever it's played at any time. It's a rivalry that generates tension and you can feel it in the game."Our intention is to play a game that will get us through to the next round. We are Barca, we want to win every game and every competition.
"The Copa del Rey is a competition that motivates us. The most important game now is this one. I have no doubt we can do it."
Ernesto Valverde is open to making more Barcelona signings during the January transfer window.
Philippe Coutinho's arrival from Liverpool broke the club's transfer record, while Yerry Mina was brought in from Palmeiras to boost Barca's defensive options.With Arda Turan and Javier Mascherano leaving Camp Nou for Istanbul Basaksehir and Hebei China Fortune respectively, the club have made two signings to replace two outgoings.
And while Valverde is not pushing the Barcelona board for more arrivals, the coach conceded more movement is possible in the last week of the transfer window.
"I'm happy with the team we have but until the transfer market is over nothing is out of the question," Valverde said. "Not just for us but for every team. Things could change."I don't know what's going to happen between now and the end of the window but in principle I am happy with the squad I have.
"With Yerry Mina, we know we want him to help us this season. And he could enter the squad, we are contemplating it. We want him to get some confidence, but we're still a little anxious to see what he can give us. He needs to spend some time adapting to our style of play."
Barca host Catalan rivals Espanyol in the second leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final on Thursday, having suffered a shock 1-0 defeat in last week's opener. And with Barcelona seeking to defend a title they have won in each of the last three seasons, Valverde believes his team will overturn the narrow deficit.
"I've always looked at this derby like a special thing," Valverde told reporters on Wednesday. "The fact we lost the first game there means we may be more motivated.
"This game is always marked on the calendar for both sides. It's a tough game wherever it's played at any time. It's a rivalry that generates tension and you can feel it in the game."Our intention is to play a game that will get us through to the next round. We are Barca, we want to win every game and every competition.
"The Copa del Rey is a competition that motivates us. The most important game now is this one. I have no doubt we can do it."
From Messi's recommendation to club legend - Barcelona will miss Mascherano
It was an ominous start. Javier Mascherano made his Barcelona debut in a shock 2-0 defeat against Hercules at Camp Nou in September 2010, playing poorly in the first half before being substituted at the interval. At that point, his seemed a strange signing.Back then, Barca's brilliant midfield trio of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets was in its prime. The Catalan club did not really need another defensive midfielder. However, coach Pep Guardiola had other ideas.
It later emerged that Lionel Messi had alerted Guardiola and the Barca board to the possibility of signing his international team-mate, who had been at Liverpool since early 2007 and arrived at Camp Nou in August 2010 for a fee of €24 million.
“During the World Cup in 2010, Barcelona needed to replace Yaya Toure and I told Leo that I’d love to be considered," Mascherano said later on.
“He talked to Guardiola who said: ‘But Mascherano won’t get a game if he comes here! ‘How can I put Argentina’s captain on the bench?’"But I told Leo to tell Pep that I wasn’t the kind of player who causes problems. I remember being called to his office in the Ciudad Deportiva soon after I signed."
Probably by way of motivation, Pep told Mascherano something similar to his face when he arrived. But by the end of the season and despite his inauspicious start against Hercules, the Argentine midfielder had made 45 appearances for the Blaugrana.
Most of those came in defence as captain Carles Puyol spent time on the sidelines through injury and so impressive was Mascherano in this new role that he started alongside Gerard Pique in the Champions League final against Manchester United at Wembley.
Guardiola was quickly converted by the Argentine's leadership qualities and his determination to succeed in any position. "I wouldn't ever sell him," Pep said in 2012. "He's a unique signing and we are very happy to have him."
Luis Enrique also praised the player when he was unveiled in the summer of 2014. Asked about the Argentine, he told the media: "Mascherano is like Xavi. He is very important, also because of his personality on and off the pitch. He is clear example of what a captain can be."
And that was evident during the Asturian's three-year tenure. Whenever Barca scored, their players could all be seen in a huddle celebrating together. Except for one: Mascherano. He was usually over on the sidelines receiving instructions from Luis Enrique.
Such players are invaluable and Mascherano was very much a captain without an armband in his spell at Camp Nou, where he played mostly out of his natural position but racked up 334 appearances and ended up with 17 major trophies (including four league titles and two Champions League crowns).It is perhaps a measure of the man that team-mates past and present were in attendance in a special event organised by Barca to say goodbye on Tuesday - Messi, Puyol, Busquets and Eric Abidal among them.
"Masche, after so many matches and moments together, words are not enough," Messi wrote on social media. "You know I'm going to miss you, it will be strange to come to the dressing room and not see you sitting by my side."
Former Barca team-mate Xavi sent in a video message in which he said: "I just wanted to thank you for everything you've given to the club. I think you've been an incredible example of what it means to be a team-mate and a professional.
"I think a lot of foreigners who come to play for Barca should follow your example, how you adapted, and the mark you made on the dressing room, above all on a personal level and, of course, on a professional level, too."That just about says it all. Mascherano is indeed an extraordinary example, a player who looked like he may not have the technique to succeed at Barca, but one who leaves some seven-and-a-half seasons later as a club legend.
And given his qualities as a communicator, his impressive tactical knowledge and desire to learn, don't be surprised to see him back as a coach at Camp Nou one day.
It was an ominous start. Javier Mascherano made his Barcelona debut in a shock 2-0 defeat against Hercules at Camp Nou in September 2010, playing poorly in the first half before being substituted at the interval. At that point, his seemed a strange signing.Back then, Barca's brilliant midfield trio of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets was in its prime. The Catalan club did not really need another defensive midfielder. However, coach Pep Guardiola had other ideas.
It later emerged that Lionel Messi had alerted Guardiola and the Barca board to the possibility of signing his international team-mate, who had been at Liverpool since early 2007 and arrived at Camp Nou in August 2010 for a fee of €24 million.
“During the World Cup in 2010, Barcelona needed to replace Yaya Toure and I told Leo that I’d love to be considered," Mascherano said later on.
“He talked to Guardiola who said: ‘But Mascherano won’t get a game if he comes here! ‘How can I put Argentina’s captain on the bench?’"But I told Leo to tell Pep that I wasn’t the kind of player who causes problems. I remember being called to his office in the Ciudad Deportiva soon after I signed."
Probably by way of motivation, Pep told Mascherano something similar to his face when he arrived. But by the end of the season and despite his inauspicious start against Hercules, the Argentine midfielder had made 45 appearances for the Blaugrana.
Most of those came in defence as captain Carles Puyol spent time on the sidelines through injury and so impressive was Mascherano in this new role that he started alongside Gerard Pique in the Champions League final against Manchester United at Wembley.
Guardiola was quickly converted by the Argentine's leadership qualities and his determination to succeed in any position. "I wouldn't ever sell him," Pep said in 2012. "He's a unique signing and we are very happy to have him."
Luis Enrique also praised the player when he was unveiled in the summer of 2014. Asked about the Argentine, he told the media: "Mascherano is like Xavi. He is very important, also because of his personality on and off the pitch. He is clear example of what a captain can be."
And that was evident during the Asturian's three-year tenure. Whenever Barca scored, their players could all be seen in a huddle celebrating together. Except for one: Mascherano. He was usually over on the sidelines receiving instructions from Luis Enrique.
Such players are invaluable and Mascherano was very much a captain without an armband in his spell at Camp Nou, where he played mostly out of his natural position but racked up 334 appearances and ended up with 17 major trophies (including four league titles and two Champions League crowns).It is perhaps a measure of the man that team-mates past and present were in attendance in a special event organised by Barca to say goodbye on Tuesday - Messi, Puyol, Busquets and Eric Abidal among them.
"Masche, after so many matches and moments together, words are not enough," Messi wrote on social media. "You know I'm going to miss you, it will be strange to come to the dressing room and not see you sitting by my side."
Former Barca team-mate Xavi sent in a video message in which he said: "I just wanted to thank you for everything you've given to the club. I think you've been an incredible example of what it means to be a team-mate and a professional.
"I think a lot of foreigners who come to play for Barca should follow your example, how you adapted, and the mark you made on the dressing room, above all on a personal level and, of course, on a professional level, too."That just about says it all. Mascherano is indeed an extraordinary example, a player who looked like he may not have the technique to succeed at Barca, but one who leaves some seven-and-a-half seasons later as a club legend.
And given his qualities as a communicator, his impressive tactical knowledge and desire to learn, don't be surprised to see him back as a coach at Camp Nou one day.
Coutinho follows in Cruyff's footsteps as Barca confirm squad number
Barcelona have announced that Philippe Coutinho will wear the No.14 shirt with the club.Coutinho arrived from Liverpool in a £145 million deal earlier this month, and has yet to make his debut with the club while recovering from a thigh injury.
The 25-year-old will take over the No.14 from Javier Mascherano, who wore the number for seven and a half seasons before his departure from the club was confirmed on Tuesday.Mascherano will join Chinese side Hebei China Fortune on Friday, Barcelona have confirmed.
In addition to Mascherano, the No.14 at Barcelona has also been worn by Johan Cruyff, Emmanuel Amunike, Gerard Lopez, Santiago Ezquerro and Thierry Henry.It will be the first time Coutinho has worn No.14 in his career. The Brazil international has joined up with Barcelona for training, and could make his Blaugrana debut on Thursday in the Copa del Rey against local rivals Espanyol.
Barcelona have announced that Philippe Coutinho will wear the No.14 shirt with the club.Coutinho arrived from Liverpool in a £145 million deal earlier this month, and has yet to make his debut with the club while recovering from a thigh injury.
The 25-year-old will take over the No.14 from Javier Mascherano, who wore the number for seven and a half seasons before his departure from the club was confirmed on Tuesday.Mascherano will join Chinese side Hebei China Fortune on Friday, Barcelona have confirmed.
In addition to Mascherano, the No.14 at Barcelona has also been worn by Johan Cruyff, Emmanuel Amunike, Gerard Lopez, Santiago Ezquerro and Thierry Henry.It will be the first time Coutinho has worn No.14 in his career. The Brazil international has joined up with Barcelona for training, and could make his Blaugrana debut on Thursday in the Copa del Rey against local rivals Espanyol.
'We stand up for Zidane' – Ramos defends under-fire Madrid boss
Sergio Ramos said he is not a fan of changes as the Real Madrid captain leapt to the defence of head coach Zinedine Zidane after the club's season went from bad to worse on Wednesday.Madrid's campaign hit a new low midweek, sensationally upstaged by Leganes 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu and 2-2 on away goals in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals.
The result heaped further misery on Zidane, who is facing an uncertain future with Madrid 19 points adrift of runaway leaders and rivals Barcelona in La Liga."I'm not a big fan of changes," Ramos said post-match."We are the first ones to stand up for Zidane."
Leganes became the first team in Copa history to knock out Spanish and European champions Madrid at the Bernabeu after losing at home in the first leg . Madrid are still alive in the Champions League, preparing for a last-16 tie against French giants Paris Saint-Germain."To fall in the Copa del Rey is a failure," Spain international centre-back Ramos added.
"These are tough times, but we must be as united as possible and not throw the rest of the season away. "You have to learn from bad moments. We are all responsible and we hope that this serves some use in the future. We still have the Champions League."
The task in the Champions League became even harder on Wednesday night when PSG boss Unai Emery announced that he expects to have Kylian Mbappe back in time to take on Madrid .
Sergio Ramos said he is not a fan of changes as the Real Madrid captain leapt to the defence of head coach Zinedine Zidane after the club's season went from bad to worse on Wednesday.Madrid's campaign hit a new low midweek, sensationally upstaged by Leganes 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu and 2-2 on away goals in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals.
The result heaped further misery on Zidane, who is facing an uncertain future with Madrid 19 points adrift of runaway leaders and rivals Barcelona in La Liga."I'm not a big fan of changes," Ramos said post-match."We are the first ones to stand up for Zidane."
Leganes became the first team in Copa history to knock out Spanish and European champions Madrid at the Bernabeu after losing at home in the first leg . Madrid are still alive in the Champions League, preparing for a last-16 tie against French giants Paris Saint-Germain."To fall in the Copa del Rey is a failure," Spain international centre-back Ramos added.
"These are tough times, but we must be as united as possible and not throw the rest of the season away. "You have to learn from bad moments. We are all responsible and we hope that this serves some use in the future. We still have the Champions League."
The task in the Champions League became even harder on Wednesday night when PSG boss Unai Emery announced that he expects to have Kylian Mbappe back in time to take on Madrid .
'We got Mkhitaryan in' - Wenger happy with Arsenal squad amid Aubameyang links
Arsene Wenger suggested he is happy if Arsenal do not manage to sign Borussia Dortmund star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang before the January transfer window closes.Arsenal have been heavily linked with Gabon international Aubameyang following the departure of Alexis Sanchez to Premier League rivals Manchester United.
Goal reported on Sunday that the Gunners' transfer chiefs Ivan Gazidis, Sven Mislintat and Huss Fahmy were in Germany to open formal negotiations with Dortmund over a transfer .
Wenger also effectively confirmed on Tuesday that Arsenal are interested in signing Aubameyang but claimed that any possible deal is not close to completion
However, it remains uncertain if Arsenal will be able to reach an agreement with Dortmund, who reportedly value Aubameyang in the region of €65million.
Asked about the Dortmund forward following Wednesday's 2-1 win over Chelsea in the EFL Cup semi-finals, Wenger told reporters: "The best is I don't talk about that because it wouldn't help. "I think if something happens it happens, if it doesn't happen then we are strong enough to focus on the players we have and focus on the job with the players we have.
"I am perfectly happy with the players I have. We got Mkhitaryan in and I have a strong squad."Aubameyang, who has missed Dortmund's past two matches amid uncertainty over his future, has scored 21 goals in all competitions.
The win over Chelsea set Arsenal up with a league cup final against Manchester City in February. The Gunners are also trying to close the gap on the Premier League's top four and Wenger believes that the end of the Sanchez saga has cleared some of the "uncertainty" at the club .Arsenal, sitting sixth in the league table, currently are five points back of fourth-placed Liverpool.
Arsene Wenger suggested he is happy if Arsenal do not manage to sign Borussia Dortmund star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang before the January transfer window closes.Arsenal have been heavily linked with Gabon international Aubameyang following the departure of Alexis Sanchez to Premier League rivals Manchester United.
Goal reported on Sunday that the Gunners' transfer chiefs Ivan Gazidis, Sven Mislintat and Huss Fahmy were in Germany to open formal negotiations with Dortmund over a transfer .
Wenger also effectively confirmed on Tuesday that Arsenal are interested in signing Aubameyang but claimed that any possible deal is not close to completion
However, it remains uncertain if Arsenal will be able to reach an agreement with Dortmund, who reportedly value Aubameyang in the region of €65million.
Asked about the Dortmund forward following Wednesday's 2-1 win over Chelsea in the EFL Cup semi-finals, Wenger told reporters: "The best is I don't talk about that because it wouldn't help. "I think if something happens it happens, if it doesn't happen then we are strong enough to focus on the players we have and focus on the job with the players we have.
"I am perfectly happy with the players I have. We got Mkhitaryan in and I have a strong squad."Aubameyang, who has missed Dortmund's past two matches amid uncertainty over his future, has scored 21 goals in all competitions.
The win over Chelsea set Arsenal up with a league cup final against Manchester City in February. The Gunners are also trying to close the gap on the Premier League's top four and Wenger believes that the end of the Sanchez saga has cleared some of the "uncertainty" at the club .Arsenal, sitting sixth in the league table, currently are five points back of fourth-placed Liverpool.
Barcelona 2 Espanyol 0 (2-1 agg): Messi turns tie around as Coutinho debuts
Lionel Messi inspired Barcelona to a 2-0 victory over Espanyol, sealing a 2-1 aggregate success and a place in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey as Philippe Coutinho made his debut off the bench.
Barca trailed 1-0 from the opening leg after Oscar Melendo's late finish, but there was little danger of Ernesto Valverde's men following Real Madrid in crashing out of the tournament.
Almost 80,000 fans at Camp Nou waved goodbye to Javier Mascherano pre-match, and Barca made a terrific start in the Catalan derby - Luis Suarez swiftly erasing the first-leg deficit with a header from a fine right-wing Aleix Vidal cross.
Espanyol wasted chances to reclaim the initiative and Messi came up with the key goal, although his shot needed a touch off Naldo to wrongfoot goalkeeper Pau Lopez, before Coutinho was introduced by Ernesto Valverde for a bright 22-minute cameo.Messi hit the post late on, but Barca - winners of the Copa del Rey in each of the last three seasons - remain in with a chance of matching the four straight titles won by Athletic Bilbao in the 1930s.
With both Real and Atletico Madrid having gone out in the quarter-finals, Barca will now compete with Sevilla, Valencia and Leganes for a place in the Copa del Rey showpiece. The draw for the semi-finals will be made on Friday.
Barca needed only eight minutes to get level on aggregate, surprise starter Vidal sent clear by Messi to provide a perfect cross for Suarez to head home at the back post, the striker's eighth goal in his last six appearances against Espanyol.But Espanyol immediately fired a warning shot of their own, Gerard Moreno shooting straight at Jasper Cillessen after being picked out by Sergi Darder.
The visitors continued to threaten and Esteban Granero should have hit the target from a Victor Sanchez cross, the former Real Madrid man sending his first-time shot wide.Barcelona punished that error by taking the lead in the tie after 25 minutes, scoring their 4,000th goal in official competitions at Camp Nou.
Persistence from Vidal won the ball on the edge of the Espanyol box, with Messi driving into space and hitting a firm 20-yard strike that beat Lopez with the aid of a deflection off Naldo.Messi missed a chance to put the tie beyond Espanyol just before the break, brushing the side netting after Andres Iniesta sent Jordi Alba clear down the left to deliver a low cross.
Lopez denied Messi a second with a fine save after 55 minutes before record signing Coutinho - wearing Mascherano's old number 14 shirt - was introduced for his Barca bow.
With Quique Sanchez Flores' men committing more men in attack, Barca were increasingly dangerous on the break and Lopez had to make a superb double save from Suarez and Ivan Rakitic after Messi had played Coutinho into space on the left.
Espanyol were only ever a goal away from shocking Camp Nou but Moreno's hopeful penalty appeal after a tangle with Alba on the edge of the box was the closest they came as Coutinho's debut - against the club he represented on loan in 2012 - ended in a Copa derby victory, with Messi thumping a header against the post with two minutes left, denying him a deserved final word.
Lionel Messi inspired Barcelona to a 2-0 victory over Espanyol, sealing a 2-1 aggregate success and a place in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey as Philippe Coutinho made his debut off the bench.
Barca trailed 1-0 from the opening leg after Oscar Melendo's late finish, but there was little danger of Ernesto Valverde's men following Real Madrid in crashing out of the tournament.
Almost 80,000 fans at Camp Nou waved goodbye to Javier Mascherano pre-match, and Barca made a terrific start in the Catalan derby - Luis Suarez swiftly erasing the first-leg deficit with a header from a fine right-wing Aleix Vidal cross.
Espanyol wasted chances to reclaim the initiative and Messi came up with the key goal, although his shot needed a touch off Naldo to wrongfoot goalkeeper Pau Lopez, before Coutinho was introduced by Ernesto Valverde for a bright 22-minute cameo.Messi hit the post late on, but Barca - winners of the Copa del Rey in each of the last three seasons - remain in with a chance of matching the four straight titles won by Athletic Bilbao in the 1930s.
With both Real and Atletico Madrid having gone out in the quarter-finals, Barca will now compete with Sevilla, Valencia and Leganes for a place in the Copa del Rey showpiece. The draw for the semi-finals will be made on Friday.
Barca needed only eight minutes to get level on aggregate, surprise starter Vidal sent clear by Messi to provide a perfect cross for Suarez to head home at the back post, the striker's eighth goal in his last six appearances against Espanyol.But Espanyol immediately fired a warning shot of their own, Gerard Moreno shooting straight at Jasper Cillessen after being picked out by Sergi Darder.
The visitors continued to threaten and Esteban Granero should have hit the target from a Victor Sanchez cross, the former Real Madrid man sending his first-time shot wide.Barcelona punished that error by taking the lead in the tie after 25 minutes, scoring their 4,000th goal in official competitions at Camp Nou.
Persistence from Vidal won the ball on the edge of the Espanyol box, with Messi driving into space and hitting a firm 20-yard strike that beat Lopez with the aid of a deflection off Naldo.Messi missed a chance to put the tie beyond Espanyol just before the break, brushing the side netting after Andres Iniesta sent Jordi Alba clear down the left to deliver a low cross.
Lopez denied Messi a second with a fine save after 55 minutes before record signing Coutinho - wearing Mascherano's old number 14 shirt - was introduced for his Barca bow.
With Quique Sanchez Flores' men committing more men in attack, Barca were increasingly dangerous on the break and Lopez had to make a superb double save from Suarez and Ivan Rakitic after Messi had played Coutinho into space on the left.
Espanyol were only ever a goal away from shocking Camp Nou but Moreno's hopeful penalty appeal after a tangle with Alba on the edge of the box was the closest they came as Coutinho's debut - against the club he represented on loan in 2012 - ended in a Copa derby victory, with Messi thumping a header against the post with two minutes left, denying him a deserved final word.
Southampton confirm club-record Carrillo signing
Guido Carrillo has completed his move from Monaco to Southampton, boosting the forward options of the Premier League strugglers.
Southampton are reported to have paid a club-record fee of £19.1 million to secure Carrillo, eclipsing the £16m paid to sign Mario Lemina Southampton are 18th in the Premier League and have found goals hard to come by this season, scoring just 24 times in 24 matches.
Carrillo moves from the Ligue 1 champions after signing a contract until June 2021, linking back up with Mauricio Pellegrino. The 26-year-old worked with Pellegrino at Estudiantes in Argentina, where he scored 36 goals in 131 matches."I’m very happy. It's a great feeling to be a part of this club," said Carrillo, who has scored four league goals for Monaco this season.
"Lots of things attracted me. I know Southampton from watching the Premier League from when I was small, I've always regarded it as the most important league in the world.
"I obviously know the coaching staff, I've worked with them in Argentina and I also spoke with some players who were former teammates in Argentina, who are now playing in the Premier League and they told me all about the club and gave it a shining reference. "Therefore, I had no doubts when I took the decision."Southampton vice-chairman Les Reed acknowledged the deal was difficult to complete.
"A huge amount of work has gone in to completing this transfer, and we are thrilled that we have now been able to push it through to completion," Reed said.
"Guido represents a very exciting addition to our attacking options ahead of the final months of the season, possessing plenty of experience at the highest level, while also having the potential and the desire to improve even further."We are confident he will benefit us not only in the remainder of this campaign, but in the years to come."
Guido Carrillo has completed his move from Monaco to Southampton, boosting the forward options of the Premier League strugglers.
Southampton are reported to have paid a club-record fee of £19.1 million to secure Carrillo, eclipsing the £16m paid to sign Mario Lemina Southampton are 18th in the Premier League and have found goals hard to come by this season, scoring just 24 times in 24 matches.
Carrillo moves from the Ligue 1 champions after signing a contract until June 2021, linking back up with Mauricio Pellegrino. The 26-year-old worked with Pellegrino at Estudiantes in Argentina, where he scored 36 goals in 131 matches."I’m very happy. It's a great feeling to be a part of this club," said Carrillo, who has scored four league goals for Monaco this season.
"Lots of things attracted me. I know Southampton from watching the Premier League from when I was small, I've always regarded it as the most important league in the world.
"I obviously know the coaching staff, I've worked with them in Argentina and I also spoke with some players who were former teammates in Argentina, who are now playing in the Premier League and they told me all about the club and gave it a shining reference. "Therefore, I had no doubts when I took the decision."Southampton vice-chairman Les Reed acknowledged the deal was difficult to complete.
"A huge amount of work has gone in to completing this transfer, and we are thrilled that we have now been able to push it through to completion," Reed said.
"Guido represents a very exciting addition to our attacking options ahead of the final months of the season, possessing plenty of experience at the highest level, while also having the potential and the desire to improve even further."We are confident he will benefit us not only in the remainder of this campaign, but in the years to come."
'Nobody is coming' - Mourinho rules out Seri signing for Man Utd
Jose Mourinho insisted Manchester United will not make any more signings before the January transfer window closes amid links with Nice midfielder Jean Michael Seri.A quiet month was expected at Old Trafford before United pipped neighbours Manchester City to the coveted signing of Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan moved in the opposite direction as part of the blockbuster deal, and now talk has moved to Nice star Seri and the central midfield position.
But after defender Axel Tuanzebe joined Championship side Aston Villa for the remainder of the season, Mourinho does not expect any comings or goings in Manchester.
"No, I don't speak about players," Mourinho told reporters when asked about Seri."Tuanzebe goes on loan, nobody is leaving, nobody is coming. Our transfer market in the summer will be short."
Mourinho – who signed a contract extension Thursday – and United are preparing for Friday's FA Cup clash at Yeovil Town, where Alexis Sanchez is in line to make his debut.The club will return to Premier League action against Tottenham at Wembley Wednesday.
Despite being the nearest challengers, Mourinho's side sit 12 points back of rivals Man City in the league table and will face Sevilla in the round of 16 in the Champions League as the club continues to compete on three fronts.
Jose Mourinho insisted Manchester United will not make any more signings before the January transfer window closes amid links with Nice midfielder Jean Michael Seri.A quiet month was expected at Old Trafford before United pipped neighbours Manchester City to the coveted signing of Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan moved in the opposite direction as part of the blockbuster deal, and now talk has moved to Nice star Seri and the central midfield position.
But after defender Axel Tuanzebe joined Championship side Aston Villa for the remainder of the season, Mourinho does not expect any comings or goings in Manchester.
"No, I don't speak about players," Mourinho told reporters when asked about Seri."Tuanzebe goes on loan, nobody is leaving, nobody is coming. Our transfer market in the summer will be short."
Mourinho – who signed a contract extension Thursday – and United are preparing for Friday's FA Cup clash at Yeovil Town, where Alexis Sanchez is in line to make his debut.The club will return to Premier League action against Tottenham at Wembley Wednesday.
Despite being the nearest challengers, Mourinho's side sit 12 points back of rivals Man City in the league table and will face Sevilla in the round of 16 in the Champions League as the club continues to compete on three fronts.
'I'd rather work on a farm than at Barca' - but Pochettino is open to Real Madrid switch
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino is open to taking charge of Spanish and European champions Real Madrid as he dismissed the possibility of moving to Barcelona or Arsenal.Zinedine Zidane guided Madrid to LaLiga and Champions League glory last season but the Frenchman is fighting to keep his job amid the club's struggles in 2017-18.
Madrid's campaign hit a new low Wednesday, bundled out of the Copa del Rey quarter-finals by Leganes.
Pochettino has been linked with Madrid amid uncertainty over Zidane and the former Espanyol boss refused to rule out a switch to the Santiago Bernabeu.
"I am so clear," Pochettino said. "I am never going to be manager of Barcelona or Arsenal because I am so identified with Tottenham and Espanyol. I grew up in Newell's Old Boys and will never manage Rosario Central."That is my decision because I prefer to work on my farm in Argentina than in some places. But my commitment is massive in this club. I am working like I am going to be here forever.
"But in the end, it is like the players, you never know what is going to happen in football. It is a lot of rumours about this, about that."Tomorrow [Tottenham chairman] Daniel Levy could have a bad night and say, 'Oh I am going to sack Mauricio'. And then I look stupid saying I am not going to work in one place or another or another.
"You never know in football. That is the problem. It is a very unstable situation."
Tottenham are fifth in the Premier League after 24 matches, two points adrift of fourth-placed Liverpool and 20 behind runaway leaders Manchester City.
Spurs are away to Newport County in the FA Cup Saturday before hosting Manchester United Wednesday.
Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino is open to taking charge of Spanish and European champions Real Madrid as he dismissed the possibility of moving to Barcelona or Arsenal.Zinedine Zidane guided Madrid to LaLiga and Champions League glory last season but the Frenchman is fighting to keep his job amid the club's struggles in 2017-18.
Madrid's campaign hit a new low Wednesday, bundled out of the Copa del Rey quarter-finals by Leganes.
Pochettino has been linked with Madrid amid uncertainty over Zidane and the former Espanyol boss refused to rule out a switch to the Santiago Bernabeu.
"I am so clear," Pochettino said. "I am never going to be manager of Barcelona or Arsenal because I am so identified with Tottenham and Espanyol. I grew up in Newell's Old Boys and will never manage Rosario Central."That is my decision because I prefer to work on my farm in Argentina than in some places. But my commitment is massive in this club. I am working like I am going to be here forever.
"But in the end, it is like the players, you never know what is going to happen in football. It is a lot of rumours about this, about that."Tomorrow [Tottenham chairman] Daniel Levy could have a bad night and say, 'Oh I am going to sack Mauricio'. And then I look stupid saying I am not going to work in one place or another or another.
"You never know in football. That is the problem. It is a very unstable situation."
Tottenham are fifth in the Premier League after 24 matches, two points adrift of fourth-placed Liverpool and 20 behind runaway leaders Manchester City.
Spurs are away to Newport County in the FA Cup Saturday before hosting Manchester United Wednesday.
Dortmund frustrated as Arsenal refuse to meet Aubameyang asking price
Borussia Dortmund are growing frustrated at Arsenal's refusal to meet their asking price for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Goal understands.The Premier League club have already reached an agreement on personal terms with the Gabon striker, and are locked in talks over a fee with BVB.
But so far their offers have fallen short of what the Bundesliga side want for their star, who was left out of their weekend clash against Hertha Berlin.
The Gunners have already tabled two bids, worth €50 million and €58m, which have been rejected. Dortmund are holding out for €70m, but could compromise on a deal worth €65m if negotiations continue to drag, while Arsenal remain confident of striking a deal.
Olivier Giroud could also enter the equation as a loan makeweight in the deal, with Dortmund keen to replace Aubameyang with a proven striker before the end of the window.
While BVB are keen, however, Arsenal are more reluctant to agree to a temporary switch, unless Giroud's presence in the offer allows them to reduce Aubameyang's fee."Anything can happen in the next few days," a source close to Giroud explained to Goal.
"The only concrete point we know is that Dortmund really aren't agreed on Arsenal's offer. And that makes for a lot of consequences."
As previously reported, West Bromwich Albion defender Jonny Evans is also a target at the Emirates Stadium, although Aubameyang is the club's top priority.
Evans is open to a move, but Arsenal may face a late battle with the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City keen to land the ex-Man United player.
Borussia Dortmund are growing frustrated at Arsenal's refusal to meet their asking price for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Goal understands.The Premier League club have already reached an agreement on personal terms with the Gabon striker, and are locked in talks over a fee with BVB.
But so far their offers have fallen short of what the Bundesliga side want for their star, who was left out of their weekend clash against Hertha Berlin.
The Gunners have already tabled two bids, worth €50 million and €58m, which have been rejected. Dortmund are holding out for €70m, but could compromise on a deal worth €65m if negotiations continue to drag, while Arsenal remain confident of striking a deal.
Olivier Giroud could also enter the equation as a loan makeweight in the deal, with Dortmund keen to replace Aubameyang with a proven striker before the end of the window.
While BVB are keen, however, Arsenal are more reluctant to agree to a temporary switch, unless Giroud's presence in the offer allows them to reduce Aubameyang's fee."Anything can happen in the next few days," a source close to Giroud explained to Goal.
"The only concrete point we know is that Dortmund really aren't agreed on Arsenal's offer. And that makes for a lot of consequences."
As previously reported, West Bromwich Albion defender Jonny Evans is also a target at the Emirates Stadium, although Aubameyang is the club's top priority.
Evans is open to a move, but Arsenal may face a late battle with the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City keen to land the ex-Man United player.
Jose Mourinho has extended his contract with Manchester United until at least 2020, the club announced on Thursday.
Recent reports had suggested the manager was close to signing a fresh deal at Old Trafford, as he nears the end of his second season in charge. And the news was made official as the club confirmed an extension that will keep him at the club for at least two more years.
"Jose Mourinho has signed an extension to his contract at Manchester United in a move that sees him commit his future to the Old Trafford club until at least 2020, with an option for a further year," United signalled on the club's official website.
"Mourinho, who became the first United manager in history to win a major trophy in his first season when he secured the EFL Cup at Wembley last February, also led the club to success in the only competition it had never previously won, when he masterminded the UEFA Europa League win in Stockholm in May."
The former Inter, Real Madrid and Chelsea boss has never managed the same club for more than three consecutive seasons, but Man United director Ed Woodward praised his commitment to the institution and stated his belief that he would remain in charge for years to come.
“Jose has already achieved a great deal as Manchester United manager and I am delighted that he has agreed to extend his commitment until at least 2020," he said.
"His work rate and professionalism are exceptional and he has embraced the club’s desire to promote top quality young players to the first team. He has brought an energy and a sense of purpose to everything that he does and I am sure that will continue to bring results for the fans and the club.”
Mourinho, meanwhile, underlined his commitment to keep delivering success as he looks to build on the two trophies lifted during his debut term.
“I am really honoured and proud to be Manchester United manager. I would like to say a big thank you to the owners and to Mr Woodward for the recognition of my hard work and dedication," the manager stated."I am delighted they feel and trust that I am the right manager for this great club for the foreseeable future.
“We have set very high standards - winning three trophies in one season - but those are the standards I expect my teams to aim for. We are creating the conditions for a brilliant and successful future for Manchester United.
“My thanks, of course, go to my staff and to my players; without their empathy and friendship this wouldn’t be possible. I love my players and it is a pleasure to know that we are going to be together for at least the next three years.
“And I cannot finish without thanking the fans for their support and for making me feel at home so quickly. I repeat, to be Manchester United manager is an honour every day and I am really happy.”
Pochettino tells Wenger to focus on Arsenal after trophy jibe
Mauricio Pochettino believes Arsene Wenger made a "mistake" by talking about Tottenham's lack of trophies.Before Arsenal beat Chelsea to book a place in the EFL Cup final on Wednesday, Wenger appeared to aim a dig at both Liverpool and Tottenham.
The Frenchman suggested the media "celebrate teams who haven't been in a final for 25 years - and kill us", even though Arsenal have won three FA Cups in the last four years.
Wenger's comments were widely assumed to be a barb aimed at Pochettino and Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp, both of whom are yet to win a trophy in English football.
And ahead of Spurs' trip to Newport County in the fourth round of the FA Cup on Saturday, Pochettino hit back at Wenger.
"I'm so young and only five years in the Premier League, in two clubs, Southampton and Tottenham, but there's no point to talk about another team," Pochettino told reporters.
"Praise? Of course we receive praise. Football is not only to win trophies, it's the circumstances of different clubs."He is and will always be one of the best managers in the world, I respect him, but I think he needs to talk for himself and for Arsenal."He is a special manager, but everyone sometimes makes a mistake and for me he made a mistake to talk about us or a different team."
Newport knocked out Championship promotion hopefuls Leeds United in the third round and Pochettino believes the pitch at Rodney Parade will be a typical FA Cup leveller.
"Today they are playing a rugby match. It is not an easy pitch but we will not complain about the pitch," Pochettino said. "It will be tough, it's not about going there and thinking just because we are Tottenham we are going to win. That is important."We need to show massive respect to the opponent. In my mind, it's not a League Two team. It's our opponent, I don't care about their level. We need to give our best or we're going to have a massive problem.
"I saw their last game in the FA Cup against Leeds United. They're a very physical team, with some quality players, and in the end the motivation will be massive for them. Of course, it will be a very tough and dangerous game.
"We are aware but another thing is to be concentrated and focused and ready to fight. It will be a big battle. [We must] put ourselves in the same level as them, same motivation.
"No complaints, no excuses, try to believe we're going to play against Real Madrid, Bayern Munich or Juventus in the Champions League. If we're not ready to compete from the beginning, we're going to struggle."Pochettino plans to use teenage midfielder Tashan Oakley-Boothe in the Cup tie, but is considering resting star striker Harry Kane.
Mauricio Pochettino believes Arsene Wenger made a "mistake" by talking about Tottenham's lack of trophies.Before Arsenal beat Chelsea to book a place in the EFL Cup final on Wednesday, Wenger appeared to aim a dig at both Liverpool and Tottenham.
The Frenchman suggested the media "celebrate teams who haven't been in a final for 25 years - and kill us", even though Arsenal have won three FA Cups in the last four years.
Wenger's comments were widely assumed to be a barb aimed at Pochettino and Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp, both of whom are yet to win a trophy in English football.
And ahead of Spurs' trip to Newport County in the fourth round of the FA Cup on Saturday, Pochettino hit back at Wenger.
"I'm so young and only five years in the Premier League, in two clubs, Southampton and Tottenham, but there's no point to talk about another team," Pochettino told reporters.
"Praise? Of course we receive praise. Football is not only to win trophies, it's the circumstances of different clubs."He is and will always be one of the best managers in the world, I respect him, but I think he needs to talk for himself and for Arsenal."He is a special manager, but everyone sometimes makes a mistake and for me he made a mistake to talk about us or a different team."
Newport knocked out Championship promotion hopefuls Leeds United in the third round and Pochettino believes the pitch at Rodney Parade will be a typical FA Cup leveller.
"Today they are playing a rugby match. It is not an easy pitch but we will not complain about the pitch," Pochettino said. "It will be tough, it's not about going there and thinking just because we are Tottenham we are going to win. That is important."We need to show massive respect to the opponent. In my mind, it's not a League Two team. It's our opponent, I don't care about their level. We need to give our best or we're going to have a massive problem.
"I saw their last game in the FA Cup against Leeds United. They're a very physical team, with some quality players, and in the end the motivation will be massive for them. Of course, it will be a very tough and dangerous game.
"We are aware but another thing is to be concentrated and focused and ready to fight. It will be a big battle. [We must] put ourselves in the same level as them, same motivation.
"No complaints, no excuses, try to believe we're going to play against Real Madrid, Bayern Munich or Juventus in the Champions League. If we're not ready to compete from the beginning, we're going to struggle."Pochettino plans to use teenage midfielder Tashan Oakley-Boothe in the Cup tie, but is considering resting star striker Harry Kane.
Cristiano Ronaldo to Man Utd? Mourinho rules out Real Madrid No.7 return
Jose Mourinho has poured "water on the fire" by refusing to entertain the idea that Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo could be brought back to Manchester United.
The Portuguese is still held in the highest regard at Old Trafford following a productive six-year stint in England between 2003 and 2009 that delivered three Premier League titles, a Champions League crown and the first of five Ballon d’Or triumphs.
It had been suggested that the door could be opened to an emotional reunion, with Ronaldo now 32 years of age and caught up in the struggles currently being endured by Real.
There has been plenty of talk of Madrid sanctioning a move for their record-breaking frontman come the summer, but Mourinho is reluctant to be drawn on that subject and remains of the opinion that a fellow countryman will remain in Spain for the foreseeable future."I am the last one to add some fuel to the fire," Mourinho, who coached Ronaldo at Santiago Bernabeu between 2010 and 2013, told reporters on Thursday."Real Madrid is on fire. The results are not good. It is a club I worked at three years and care about the club.
"I am the last one to add to the fire. So [I'll pour] water on the fire: Cristiano is the type of player everyone wants but only one can have. That is Real Madrid, that's my feeling."
If United were to make a move for Ronaldo, then there would need to be a clearing of the decks first.The Red Devils are already well-stocked in the forward department, with Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial, Romelu Lukaku, Jesse Lingard and Zlatan Ibrahimovic among those on the books at Old Trafford since the start of the season.
Mourinho also tied up a deal for Alexis Sanchez, with the highly-rated Chilean having arrived from Arsenal in a trade agreement that saw Henrikh Mkhitaryan head in the opposite direction.
United are delighted to have another proven performer on board, with the Red Devils only in the market for the best talent available.Whether that includes Ronaldo at some stage in the future remains to be seen, but for now Mourinho has welcomed Sanchez into his squad.
He added on that deal: "In the Premier League he has shown already the quality he has, we got one of the best attacking players in the world."I think he's very important for us because we want to have the best possible players."
Sanchez is in line to make his debut for United in Friday’s FA Cup fourth round clash with Yeovil Town.
Jose Mourinho has poured "water on the fire" by refusing to entertain the idea that Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo could be brought back to Manchester United.
The Portuguese is still held in the highest regard at Old Trafford following a productive six-year stint in England between 2003 and 2009 that delivered three Premier League titles, a Champions League crown and the first of five Ballon d’Or triumphs.
It had been suggested that the door could be opened to an emotional reunion, with Ronaldo now 32 years of age and caught up in the struggles currently being endured by Real.
There has been plenty of talk of Madrid sanctioning a move for their record-breaking frontman come the summer, but Mourinho is reluctant to be drawn on that subject and remains of the opinion that a fellow countryman will remain in Spain for the foreseeable future."I am the last one to add some fuel to the fire," Mourinho, who coached Ronaldo at Santiago Bernabeu between 2010 and 2013, told reporters on Thursday."Real Madrid is on fire. The results are not good. It is a club I worked at three years and care about the club.
"I am the last one to add to the fire. So [I'll pour] water on the fire: Cristiano is the type of player everyone wants but only one can have. That is Real Madrid, that's my feeling."
If United were to make a move for Ronaldo, then there would need to be a clearing of the decks first.The Red Devils are already well-stocked in the forward department, with Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial, Romelu Lukaku, Jesse Lingard and Zlatan Ibrahimovic among those on the books at Old Trafford since the start of the season.
Mourinho also tied up a deal for Alexis Sanchez, with the highly-rated Chilean having arrived from Arsenal in a trade agreement that saw Henrikh Mkhitaryan head in the opposite direction.
United are delighted to have another proven performer on board, with the Red Devils only in the market for the best talent available.Whether that includes Ronaldo at some stage in the future remains to be seen, but for now Mourinho has welcomed Sanchez into his squad.
He added on that deal: "In the Premier League he has shown already the quality he has, we got one of the best attacking players in the world."I think he's very important for us because we want to have the best possible players."
Sanchez is in line to make his debut for United in Friday’s FA Cup fourth round clash with Yeovil Town.
