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..::Football IV::..
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Real Madrid 3 Liverpool 1: Brilliant Bale undoes Klopp and calamity Karius
Gareth Bale came off the bench to score one of the great goals in Champions League history and add to Loris Karius' personal ordeal by sealing Real Madrid's third consecutive European title with a 3-1 win over Liverpool.
Much of the pre-match build-up centred on the anticipated battle between star forwards Mohamed Salah and Cristiano Ronaldo in Kiev, but the duel was cut short before the half hour when Liverpool's talisman suffered an apparent shoulder injury.The 25-year-old landed awkwardly on his left shoulder after grappling with Sergio Ramos, while Ronaldo remained on the periphery throughout.
With the game locked at 1-1 in the 64th minute and 122 seconds after replacing Isco – who earlier hit the crossbar – Bale scored an overhead kick of rare brilliance.
The first goal six minutes into the second half was as farcical as Bale's opening salvo was fabulous – Karim Benzema the beneficiary of goalkeeping incompetence from Karius, much like he was against Bayern Munich and Sven Ulreich in the semi-finals.
Sadio Mane found a swift response for Liverpool but Bale, benched frequently by Zinedine Zidane on the big occasions this term, had other ideas.Karius had no chance on that occasion but seven minutes from time he pushed the Welshman's speculative drive tamely into his net, confirming Madrid as European champions for the 13th time in their illustrious history, while Jurgen Klopp suffered more final heartbreak.
Dani Carvajal was one of a number of Madrid defenders to make a ragged start and the right-back's abysmal attempted back pass in the 18th minute resulted in a Liverpool corner that Keylor Navas misjudged but Virgil van Dijk headed wide.The Madrid goalkeeper's work in holding Trent Alexander-Arnold's 15-yard drive was far more impressive after Ramos got in the way of a Roberto Firmino shot.
A confident Liverpool showing was then cruelly derailed as Salah tangled with Ramos, landed heavily on his left shoulder and remained on the turf in anguish, later trying and failing to continue.He was soon followed tearfully down the tunnel by hamstring victim Carvajal, but it was Madrid who responded better.An offside flag denied Benzema the opener after Karius magnificently kept out a Ronaldo header.
Liverpool began the second half still in their post-Salah haze and, when the Egyptian's replacement Adam Lallana lost his footing, Isco guided a shot flush against the crossbar.Even allowing for the overall lack of poise Klopp's men were showing, it was impossible to foresee Karius' inexplicable absent-mindedness in the 51st minute. Benzema instinctively stuck out a boot to block an attempted throw from the keeper and could not believe his luck as the ball trickled home.
The nature of the setback made Liverpool's response four minutes later all the more impressive.Dejan Lovren rose highest to meet James Milner's corner and Mane was on the move, reacting sharply to divert the ball past Navas.
Karius partially atoned for his error by touching an Isco shot around the post – the Spain playmaker's last contribution before making way for Bale, who was utterly sublime.Twisting into position as Marcelo's chipped cross floated behind him, Bale leapt skywards and met the ball with the outside of his left boot. His precise contact sent it dipping under the bar and into the top-left corner.
In Salah's absence, Mane was leading the Liverpool charge and fizzed a left-footed drive against the base of the post in the 70th minute.A last-ditch challenge from Andrew Robertson thwarted an unusually hesitant Ronaldo and Karius acrobatically denied Benzema, but the other two members of the BBC need not have worried. This was to go down as Bale's night.
Unfortunately for Liverpool's German goalkeeper, it will also be one forever associated with Karius after he limply made a hash of the match-winner's 30-yard strike seven minutes from time, with Klopp falling to defeat for his sixth final in a row.
Gareth Bale came off the bench to score one of the great goals in Champions League history and add to Loris Karius' personal ordeal by sealing Real Madrid's third consecutive European title with a 3-1 win over Liverpool.
Much of the pre-match build-up centred on the anticipated battle between star forwards Mohamed Salah and Cristiano Ronaldo in Kiev, but the duel was cut short before the half hour when Liverpool's talisman suffered an apparent shoulder injury.The 25-year-old landed awkwardly on his left shoulder after grappling with Sergio Ramos, while Ronaldo remained on the periphery throughout.
With the game locked at 1-1 in the 64th minute and 122 seconds after replacing Isco – who earlier hit the crossbar – Bale scored an overhead kick of rare brilliance.
The first goal six minutes into the second half was as farcical as Bale's opening salvo was fabulous – Karim Benzema the beneficiary of goalkeeping incompetence from Karius, much like he was against Bayern Munich and Sven Ulreich in the semi-finals.
Sadio Mane found a swift response for Liverpool but Bale, benched frequently by Zinedine Zidane on the big occasions this term, had other ideas.Karius had no chance on that occasion but seven minutes from time he pushed the Welshman's speculative drive tamely into his net, confirming Madrid as European champions for the 13th time in their illustrious history, while Jurgen Klopp suffered more final heartbreak.
Dani Carvajal was one of a number of Madrid defenders to make a ragged start and the right-back's abysmal attempted back pass in the 18th minute resulted in a Liverpool corner that Keylor Navas misjudged but Virgil van Dijk headed wide.The Madrid goalkeeper's work in holding Trent Alexander-Arnold's 15-yard drive was far more impressive after Ramos got in the way of a Roberto Firmino shot.
A confident Liverpool showing was then cruelly derailed as Salah tangled with Ramos, landed heavily on his left shoulder and remained on the turf in anguish, later trying and failing to continue.He was soon followed tearfully down the tunnel by hamstring victim Carvajal, but it was Madrid who responded better.An offside flag denied Benzema the opener after Karius magnificently kept out a Ronaldo header.
Liverpool began the second half still in their post-Salah haze and, when the Egyptian's replacement Adam Lallana lost his footing, Isco guided a shot flush against the crossbar.Even allowing for the overall lack of poise Klopp's men were showing, it was impossible to foresee Karius' inexplicable absent-mindedness in the 51st minute. Benzema instinctively stuck out a boot to block an attempted throw from the keeper and could not believe his luck as the ball trickled home.
The nature of the setback made Liverpool's response four minutes later all the more impressive.Dejan Lovren rose highest to meet James Milner's corner and Mane was on the move, reacting sharply to divert the ball past Navas.
Karius partially atoned for his error by touching an Isco shot around the post – the Spain playmaker's last contribution before making way for Bale, who was utterly sublime.Twisting into position as Marcelo's chipped cross floated behind him, Bale leapt skywards and met the ball with the outside of his left boot. His precise contact sent it dipping under the bar and into the top-left corner.
In Salah's absence, Mane was leading the Liverpool charge and fizzed a left-footed drive against the base of the post in the 70th minute.A last-ditch challenge from Andrew Robertson thwarted an unusually hesitant Ronaldo and Karius acrobatically denied Benzema, but the other two members of the BBC need not have worried. This was to go down as Bale's night.
Unfortunately for Liverpool's German goalkeeper, it will also be one forever associated with Karius after he limply made a hash of the match-winner's 30-yard strike seven minutes from time, with Klopp falling to defeat for his sixth final in a row.
Bale to discuss Real Madrid future after scoring 'best goal ever' in Champions League final
Gareth Bale hinted a summer move away from Real Madrid could be on the cards after stepping off the bench to make a record-breaking contribution to an historic Champions League victory over Liverpool.
The Wales international has been heavily linked with a big-money switch elsewhere after seeing form and fitness issues plague another season in the Spanish capital.He was left on the bench for Madrid’s biggest game of the season in Kiev on Saturday, but entered the fray just after the hour mark to change the course of the tie with a match-winning brace.
Having shown what he is capable of, the 28-year-old conceded afterwards that – amid much talk of interest from the likes of Manchester United and Bayern Munich – he will have to weigh up his options when the transfer window re-opens.Bale told BT Sport : "I need to be playing week in, week out, it hasn't happened this season for one reason or another. I need to sit down in the summer and discuss things with my agent and take things from there."
He added on being left out of Zinedine Zidane’s starting XI for the fourth Champions League final of his Madrid career: "Very disappointed not to start the game. I felt like I deserved it. The best I could do is come on and make an impact and that's what I did."Bale needed just 122 seconds to make an impact after replacing Isco, with a stunning overhead kick restoring Madrid’s lead on the night.He would go on to net his second and the Blancos’ third seven minutes from time to wrap up a hat-trick of continental triumphs for European football’s most successful club.
"We know what we have achieved and we know how good we have been. It's turned out to be a great season winning the Champions League,” said Bale.Bale also admitted that his acrobatic goal against Liverpool is the best of his career to date, with that strike helping him to his own piece of history.
A second effort, which dipped and swerved from distance to slip through the grasp of Loris Karius – who endured a nightmare evening in the Liverpool goal – saw the Welshman become the first player to bag a brace off the bench in a European Cup final.
That would be some way to sign off if he is to leave Madrid this summer, with there sure to be no shortage of takers if Bale is to be made available on the open market.
Gareth Bale hinted a summer move away from Real Madrid could be on the cards after stepping off the bench to make a record-breaking contribution to an historic Champions League victory over Liverpool.
The Wales international has been heavily linked with a big-money switch elsewhere after seeing form and fitness issues plague another season in the Spanish capital.He was left on the bench for Madrid’s biggest game of the season in Kiev on Saturday, but entered the fray just after the hour mark to change the course of the tie with a match-winning brace.
Having shown what he is capable of, the 28-year-old conceded afterwards that – amid much talk of interest from the likes of Manchester United and Bayern Munich – he will have to weigh up his options when the transfer window re-opens.Bale told BT Sport : "I need to be playing week in, week out, it hasn't happened this season for one reason or another. I need to sit down in the summer and discuss things with my agent and take things from there."
He added on being left out of Zinedine Zidane’s starting XI for the fourth Champions League final of his Madrid career: "Very disappointed not to start the game. I felt like I deserved it. The best I could do is come on and make an impact and that's what I did."Bale needed just 122 seconds to make an impact after replacing Isco, with a stunning overhead kick restoring Madrid’s lead on the night.He would go on to net his second and the Blancos’ third seven minutes from time to wrap up a hat-trick of continental triumphs for European football’s most successful club.
"We know what we have achieved and we know how good we have been. It's turned out to be a great season winning the Champions League,” said Bale.Bale also admitted that his acrobatic goal against Liverpool is the best of his career to date, with that strike helping him to his own piece of history.
A second effort, which dipped and swerved from distance to slip through the grasp of Loris Karius – who endured a nightmare evening in the Liverpool goal – saw the Welshman become the first player to bag a brace off the bench in a European Cup final.
That would be some way to sign off if he is to leave Madrid this summer, with there sure to be no shortage of takers if Bale is to be made available on the open market.
Where would Cristiano go? Benzema predicts Ronaldo stay
Karim Benzema believes Cristiano Ronaldo will stay at Real Madrid despite the superstar hinting he is considering leaving.
After Gareth Bale's brace earned a 3-1 win over Liverpool in Kiev, the Portugal star suggested he is thinking about departing Madrid , who lifted the Champions League for the third year in a row.Ronaldo's interview was shrugged off by coach Zinedine Zidane , while captain Sergio Ramos described the 33-year-old as "indispensable" to Madrid.
And Benzema, who capitalised on the first of two Loris Karius howlers to give Madrid the lead, feels Ronaldo will remain in the Spanish capital."Where will Cristiano go?" Benzema said."He stays with us, we need Cristiano."
A fourth Champions League crown in five years asserts Madrid as the dominant European team of the era .But Benzema did not miss the opportunity to fire a barb at rivals Barcelona, who won a domestic double.
"Very important night for us," Benzema added. "We are very happy."Now we are making history, we are going to continue, we have a formidable group."I am very proud of the season because we have the most important title."
Karim Benzema believes Cristiano Ronaldo will stay at Real Madrid despite the superstar hinting he is considering leaving.
After Gareth Bale's brace earned a 3-1 win over Liverpool in Kiev, the Portugal star suggested he is thinking about departing Madrid , who lifted the Champions League for the third year in a row.Ronaldo's interview was shrugged off by coach Zinedine Zidane , while captain Sergio Ramos described the 33-year-old as "indispensable" to Madrid.
And Benzema, who capitalised on the first of two Loris Karius howlers to give Madrid the lead, feels Ronaldo will remain in the Spanish capital."Where will Cristiano go?" Benzema said."He stays with us, we need Cristiano."
A fourth Champions League crown in five years asserts Madrid as the dominant European team of the era .But Benzema did not miss the opportunity to fire a barb at rivals Barcelona, who won a domestic double.
"Very important night for us," Benzema added. "We are very happy."Now we are making history, we are going to continue, we have a formidable group."I am very proud of the season because we have the most important title."
'It's not about Karius and the mistakes he made' - Henderson defends Liverpool goalkeeper
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson insisted it was not right to lay the blame on Loris Karius after the goalkeeper's error-strewn display handed Real Madrid a 3-1 win in the Champions League final.
Gareth Bale came off the bench to score a remarkable 64th-minute overhead kick that put Madrid 2-1 in front, but the Welshman's second seven minutes from time and Karim Benzema's opener early in the second half were both down to howling mistakes from Karius.Benzema stuck out a boot to intercept an ill-advised throw from the former Mainz keeper, who fumbled Bale's speculative long-range shot into his net to seal Liverpool's fate.
"The first one, I'm not really sure what happened," Henderson told BT Sport. "The overhead kick, he can do nothing and on the third one the ball has got loads of movement on it. That's never easy."It's not about him and the mistakes he might have made. We win as a team and we lose as a team."It's not about one person, it's about everybody and we just weren't good enough on the night."
Liverpool levelled through Sadio Mane in the 55th minute and the Senegal forward also struck the post at 2-1 – leading the Premier League side's attacking charge after Mohamed Salah departed in the 30th minute with a shoulder injury that could jeopardise his World Cup participation with Egypt."It's disappointing, of course. I thought we did well to get the goal and get back in the game," Henderson said."But there were mistakes and Madrid are a fantastic side who are always going to hurt you.
"They were the better team on the night but in the first 40 minutes we dominated and had a couple of chances."It's frustrating but you've got to give credit to Madrid."We did well to get in at half-time at 0-0 [after Salah's injury]. We kept the speed of our game, we got the goal back but there are a couple of goals that on another night wouldn't have gone in."
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson insisted it was not right to lay the blame on Loris Karius after the goalkeeper's error-strewn display handed Real Madrid a 3-1 win in the Champions League final.
Gareth Bale came off the bench to score a remarkable 64th-minute overhead kick that put Madrid 2-1 in front, but the Welshman's second seven minutes from time and Karim Benzema's opener early in the second half were both down to howling mistakes from Karius.Benzema stuck out a boot to intercept an ill-advised throw from the former Mainz keeper, who fumbled Bale's speculative long-range shot into his net to seal Liverpool's fate.
"The first one, I'm not really sure what happened," Henderson told BT Sport. "The overhead kick, he can do nothing and on the third one the ball has got loads of movement on it. That's never easy."It's not about him and the mistakes he might have made. We win as a team and we lose as a team."It's not about one person, it's about everybody and we just weren't good enough on the night."
Liverpool levelled through Sadio Mane in the 55th minute and the Senegal forward also struck the post at 2-1 – leading the Premier League side's attacking charge after Mohamed Salah departed in the 30th minute with a shoulder injury that could jeopardise his World Cup participation with Egypt."It's disappointing, of course. I thought we did well to get the goal and get back in the game," Henderson said."But there were mistakes and Madrid are a fantastic side who are always going to hurt you.
"They were the better team on the night but in the first 40 minutes we dominated and had a couple of chances."It's frustrating but you've got to give credit to Madrid."We did well to get in at half-time at 0-0 [after Salah's injury]. We kept the speed of our game, we got the goal back but there are a couple of goals that on another night wouldn't have gone in."
'I lost Liverpool the game' – Karius apologises for costly Champions League howlers
Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius apologised to "the whole club" after making two terrible mistakes in their Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid.
Madrid collected a third consecutive Champions League crown after substitute Gareth Bale struck twice from the bench in Saturday's 3-1 triumph.But Karius' errors had a huge impact on the result, the German goalkeeper bizarrely throwing the ball in off striker Karim Benzema for the opening goal in Kiev.
After Bale's brilliant bicycle-kick restored the Madrid lead following Sadio Mane's leveller, Karius then allowed a long-range drive from the Wales international to escape his grasp, wrapping up the title for Zinedine Zidane's men.Karius was left in tears at the full-time whistle and he accepted responsibility for Liverpool's defeat in Ukraine.
"I don't feel anything right now. Today I lost my team the game," Karius said to talkSPORT. "I feel sorry for everyone. I'm sorry for everyone, for the team, for the whole club. The mistakes cost us dearly.
"If I could go back in time I would. I just feel sorry for my team. I know I let them down today."It is very hard right now, but that is the life of a goalkeeper. You have got get your head up again."For now, I'm just really sorry for everyone that those goals cost us the title basically."
Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius apologised to "the whole club" after making two terrible mistakes in their Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid.
Madrid collected a third consecutive Champions League crown after substitute Gareth Bale struck twice from the bench in Saturday's 3-1 triumph.But Karius' errors had a huge impact on the result, the German goalkeeper bizarrely throwing the ball in off striker Karim Benzema for the opening goal in Kiev.
After Bale's brilliant bicycle-kick restored the Madrid lead following Sadio Mane's leveller, Karius then allowed a long-range drive from the Wales international to escape his grasp, wrapping up the title for Zinedine Zidane's men.Karius was left in tears at the full-time whistle and he accepted responsibility for Liverpool's defeat in Ukraine.
"I don't feel anything right now. Today I lost my team the game," Karius said to talkSPORT. "I feel sorry for everyone. I'm sorry for everyone, for the team, for the whole club. The mistakes cost us dearly.
"If I could go back in time I would. I just feel sorry for my team. I know I let them down today."It is very hard right now, but that is the life of a goalkeeper. You have got get your head up again."For now, I'm just really sorry for everyone that those goals cost us the title basically."
'Cristiano is happy at Real Madrid and will continue to be happy' – Perez cools Ronaldo future talk
Cristiano Ronaldo is happy at European champions Real Madrid and will continue to be content at the Liga club, according to president Florentino Perez.
Ronaldo dropped a post-match bombshell after Madrid beat Liverpool 3-1 in Saturday's Champions League final in Kiev, suggesting he could leave the Spanish side."It was very nice to be at Real Madrid," Ronaldo said. "In the next days I will talk."
But Perez appears confident five-time Ballon d'Or winner Ronaldo can be persuaded to stay at Madrid, who celebrated their third successive Champions League title.
"Everybody has the right to speak and I'm not going to talk about any personal case," Perez said."I'm delighted that Cristiano has five Champions Leagues, like myself. "Today is the day to celebrate another European Cup. Let us enjoy it.
"Cristiano is happy and will continue to be happy, I'm not here to talk about anyone.
"I'm going to celebrate with everything, the club has 13 European Cups, we have the best players in each position."Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has also sought to play down the exit talk surrounding Ronaldo, while Sergio Ramos and Karim Benzema have expressed doubts as to a summer deal being done.
Cristiano Ronaldo is happy at European champions Real Madrid and will continue to be content at the Liga club, according to president Florentino Perez.
Ronaldo dropped a post-match bombshell after Madrid beat Liverpool 3-1 in Saturday's Champions League final in Kiev, suggesting he could leave the Spanish side."It was very nice to be at Real Madrid," Ronaldo said. "In the next days I will talk."
But Perez appears confident five-time Ballon d'Or winner Ronaldo can be persuaded to stay at Madrid, who celebrated their third successive Champions League title.
"Everybody has the right to speak and I'm not going to talk about any personal case," Perez said."I'm delighted that Cristiano has five Champions Leagues, like myself. "Today is the day to celebrate another European Cup. Let us enjoy it.
"Cristiano is happy and will continue to be happy, I'm not here to talk about anyone.
"I'm going to celebrate with everything, the club has 13 European Cups, we have the best players in each position."Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has also sought to play down the exit talk surrounding Ronaldo, while Sergio Ramos and Karim Benzema have expressed doubts as to a summer deal being done.
'I shouldn't have said that' - Ronaldo regrets Real Madrid exit hint
Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted he may have spoken out of turn in suggesting that his Real Madrid days were numbered after the Champions League final.Having starred for Madrid throughout the competition, this year's top scorer drew a blank against Liverpool in Kiev.Substitute Gareth Bale stepped up to seal a third straight title as the Blancos prevailed 3-1, with Karim Benzema also getting his name on the scoresheet.
Ronaldo, however, stole the headlines when he referred to his sparkling Madrid career in the past tense to reporters.
That statement caused an instant reaction, with both Madrid president Florentino Perez and coach Zinedine Zidane speaking out to deny his exit.And while he later claimed he was taken out of context, the Portugal striker seemed to regret the storm his comments had caused."It takes away from a beautiful, historic moment for us that is winning three Champions Leagues in a row, obviously it is a special moment," he told Fox Sports.
"It's always great to win the Champions League because I know how important that competition is, I have had a great Champions League from start to finish so I'm very happy."A player's personal things aren't the most important thing now, it might have been taken out of context but maybe I shouldn't have said what I said."
Ronaldo finished the 2017-18 Champions League with 15 goals in 13 starts, and now boasts no less than five winner's medals in the competition with Manchester United and Madrid.
Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted he may have spoken out of turn in suggesting that his Real Madrid days were numbered after the Champions League final.Having starred for Madrid throughout the competition, this year's top scorer drew a blank against Liverpool in Kiev.Substitute Gareth Bale stepped up to seal a third straight title as the Blancos prevailed 3-1, with Karim Benzema also getting his name on the scoresheet.
Ronaldo, however, stole the headlines when he referred to his sparkling Madrid career in the past tense to reporters.
That statement caused an instant reaction, with both Madrid president Florentino Perez and coach Zinedine Zidane speaking out to deny his exit.And while he later claimed he was taken out of context, the Portugal striker seemed to regret the storm his comments had caused."It takes away from a beautiful, historic moment for us that is winning three Champions Leagues in a row, obviously it is a special moment," he told Fox Sports.
"It's always great to win the Champions League because I know how important that competition is, I have had a great Champions League from start to finish so I'm very happy."A player's personal things aren't the most important thing now, it might have been taken out of context but maybe I shouldn't have said what I said."
Ronaldo finished the 2017-18 Champions League with 15 goals in 13 starts, and now boasts no less than five winner's medals in the competition with Manchester United and Madrid.
Liverpool behind Karius after Champions League horror show - Klopp
Jurgen Klopp insisted Liverpool will rally around distraught goalkeeper Loris Karius after his horror show in the Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid.
It was a night to forget for Karius in Kiev, where his two errors helped Madrid to a 3-1 victory and their third successive Champions League title on Saturday.
Karius was tearful post-match as he apologised to the travelling Liverpool fans after he bizarrely threw the ball in off Madrid striker Karim Benzema for the opening goal in the second half.
The German was also at fault having allowed Gareth Bale's second goal – a long-range effort – to escape his grasp, after the Welshman had sensationally restored Madrid's lead following Sadio Mane's equaliser.
Asked about Karius in the aftermath of his second Champions League final loss, manager Klopp told reporters: "I have only very, very few words after the game but it's nothing to talk about."I really feel for him, nobody wants that, [but] that's the situation. The mistakes were obvious, we don't have to talk about that, it's all clear; he knows it, I know it, you all know it."Now, he has to deal with it, we have to deal with it, we will do that – of course we will be with him, there's no doubt about that. It was not his night, obviously."
Meanwhile, Germany legend Oliver Kahn, a Champions League winner with Bayern in 2001, admitted Karius' performance in the final is the stuff that could ruin a career."I'm lost for words," Kahn said, speaking on ZDF. "I can't remember having experienced something more brutal from a goalkeeping point of view than in this final.
"An evening like this can destroy a career."Liverpool's goalkeeping situation has been problematic throughout the season, after Klopp rotated between Karius and Simon Mignolet.The Reds have been linked with Roma star Alisson, Atletico Madrid's Jan Oblak and Juventus great Gianluigi Buffon as a result, even before the struggle in the final.
Jurgen Klopp insisted Liverpool will rally around distraught goalkeeper Loris Karius after his horror show in the Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid.
It was a night to forget for Karius in Kiev, where his two errors helped Madrid to a 3-1 victory and their third successive Champions League title on Saturday.
Karius was tearful post-match as he apologised to the travelling Liverpool fans after he bizarrely threw the ball in off Madrid striker Karim Benzema for the opening goal in the second half.
The German was also at fault having allowed Gareth Bale's second goal – a long-range effort – to escape his grasp, after the Welshman had sensationally restored Madrid's lead following Sadio Mane's equaliser.
Asked about Karius in the aftermath of his second Champions League final loss, manager Klopp told reporters: "I have only very, very few words after the game but it's nothing to talk about."I really feel for him, nobody wants that, [but] that's the situation. The mistakes were obvious, we don't have to talk about that, it's all clear; he knows it, I know it, you all know it."Now, he has to deal with it, we have to deal with it, we will do that – of course we will be with him, there's no doubt about that. It was not his night, obviously."
Meanwhile, Germany legend Oliver Kahn, a Champions League winner with Bayern in 2001, admitted Karius' performance in the final is the stuff that could ruin a career."I'm lost for words," Kahn said, speaking on ZDF. "I can't remember having experienced something more brutal from a goalkeeping point of view than in this final.
"An evening like this can destroy a career."Liverpool's goalkeeping situation has been problematic throughout the season, after Klopp rotated between Karius and Simon Mignolet.The Reds have been linked with Roma star Alisson, Atletico Madrid's Jan Oblak and Juventus great Gianluigi Buffon as a result, even before the struggle in the final.
Prompt recovery, Salah – Ramos wishes Liverpool star well
Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos wished Mohamed Salah a speedy recovery after the Liverpool star suffered a shoulder injury in the Champions League final.
Salah came off in tears half an hour into Liverpool's 3-1 defeat in Kiev on Saturday, having hurt his shoulder under a challenge from Ramos.The 25-year-old has ligament damage in his shoulder, according to the Egyptian Football Association, amid initial fears the forward could be in doubt for the World Cup.
Ramos, who was slammed for the tackle, went on Twitter after the game, writing he hoped Salah could make a quick return."Sometimes football shows you it's good side and other times the bad," he wrote.
"Above all, we are fellow pros.
"Prompt recovery, Salah. The future awaits you."Gareth Bale's brace led Madrid to a third successive Champions League crown and Ramos' fourth in total.After the contest, Ramos also downplayed team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo's comments which suggested an exit for the star attacker, saying Ronaldo will find no better fit than at Real Madrid.
Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos wished Mohamed Salah a speedy recovery after the Liverpool star suffered a shoulder injury in the Champions League final.
Salah came off in tears half an hour into Liverpool's 3-1 defeat in Kiev on Saturday, having hurt his shoulder under a challenge from Ramos.The 25-year-old has ligament damage in his shoulder, according to the Egyptian Football Association, amid initial fears the forward could be in doubt for the World Cup.
Ramos, who was slammed for the tackle, went on Twitter after the game, writing he hoped Salah could make a quick return."Sometimes football shows you it's good side and other times the bad," he wrote.
"Above all, we are fellow pros.
"Prompt recovery, Salah. The future awaits you."Gareth Bale's brace led Madrid to a third successive Champions League crown and Ramos' fourth in total.After the contest, Ramos also downplayed team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo's comments which suggested an exit for the star attacker, saying Ronaldo will find no better fit than at Real Madrid.
It was like wrestling – Klopp unhappy with Ramos challenge on Salah
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp compared Sergio Ramos' challenge on Mohamed Salah that injured the star attacker in the Champions League final to wrestling.
Salah came off in tears half an hour into Liverpool's 3-1 loss to Real Madrid in Kiev on Saturday after hurting his shoulder under a challenge from Ramos, who later wished the Egypt international a speedy recovery.Klopp was unhappy with the tangle, which the Egyptian Football Association said had left Salah with ligament damage in his shoulder.
"Congratulations to Real Madrid, [it's] not to forget they won the Champions League. Of course it was a big moment in the game," the German told a news conference.
"I know if you say something like that after a game you lost, it sounds like you are a little bit a bad loser but it was, for me, kind of a harsh challenge."It's like wrestling a little bit and it's unlucky then that Mo fell on his shoulder."
Liverpool had made a bright start to the encounter, but Madrid took over after Salah came off, with Gareth Bale's brace – after Sadio Mane had cancelled out Karim Benzema's opener – the difference.
Klopp acknowledged the Egypt international's injury had allowed Madrid to take control, while he lamented the way his team conceded as goalkeeper Loris Karius endured a nightmare outing."The shock of the boys was obvious, we dropped a little bit deep and Real tried to use that for positive momentum, until we settled a little bit," he said.
"It was quite difficult but 0-0 at half-time, we could adjust a few things – defending half-spaces, which we did before that really well, and then playing more football."And then the other decisive moments were the goals; they were quite strange, that's how it is."We all know the result is 3-1 Real Madrid and that's why we are not in the best mood obviously."
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp compared Sergio Ramos' challenge on Mohamed Salah that injured the star attacker in the Champions League final to wrestling.
Salah came off in tears half an hour into Liverpool's 3-1 loss to Real Madrid in Kiev on Saturday after hurting his shoulder under a challenge from Ramos, who later wished the Egypt international a speedy recovery.Klopp was unhappy with the tangle, which the Egyptian Football Association said had left Salah with ligament damage in his shoulder.
"Congratulations to Real Madrid, [it's] not to forget they won the Champions League. Of course it was a big moment in the game," the German told a news conference.
"I know if you say something like that after a game you lost, it sounds like you are a little bit a bad loser but it was, for me, kind of a harsh challenge."It's like wrestling a little bit and it's unlucky then that Mo fell on his shoulder."
Liverpool had made a bright start to the encounter, but Madrid took over after Salah came off, with Gareth Bale's brace – after Sadio Mane had cancelled out Karim Benzema's opener – the difference.
Klopp acknowledged the Egypt international's injury had allowed Madrid to take control, while he lamented the way his team conceded as goalkeeper Loris Karius endured a nightmare outing."The shock of the boys was obvious, we dropped a little bit deep and Real tried to use that for positive momentum, until we settled a little bit," he said.
"It was quite difficult but 0-0 at half-time, we could adjust a few things – defending half-spaces, which we did before that really well, and then playing more football."And then the other decisive moments were the goals; they were quite strange, that's how it is."We all know the result is 3-1 Real Madrid and that's why we are not in the best mood obviously."
Neymar focused on Brazil amid Real Madrid transfer links
Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar has played down the transfer links with Real Madrid and insisted he is focused on the World Cup with Brazil.
As reported by Goal, the 26-year-old has made it clear to PSG that he wants to join the Champions League winners in the summer .He does, however, face resistance from the Ligue 1 side, who are desperate to keep their star man who they only signed from Barcelona in 2017.
Neymar's agent Pini Zahavi met with Madrid president Florentino Perez on May 13 although PSG remain confident the forward, who is contracted to 2022, will stay put.
The former Barca star dropped a hint that he could be interested in joining Manchester City, admitting that he would like to work with Pep Guardiola one day.It is, however, Madrid who are the favourites to land the forward but he says he's focused on Brazil ahead of the showpiece tournament in Russia.
"The focus is now on the Brazilian team," he told reporters.
"They are talking nonsense. It's not worth answering."Neymar scored 28 goals for PSG in his first campaign with the French giants, who won Ligue 1, the Coupe de France and Coupe de la Ligue.The Brazil international, who missed a chunk of the 2017-18 campaign due to a foot injury, has resumed training but has suggested he is not yet at 100 per cent, with the World Cup just three weeks away.
Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar has played down the transfer links with Real Madrid and insisted he is focused on the World Cup with Brazil.
As reported by Goal, the 26-year-old has made it clear to PSG that he wants to join the Champions League winners in the summer .He does, however, face resistance from the Ligue 1 side, who are desperate to keep their star man who they only signed from Barcelona in 2017.
Neymar's agent Pini Zahavi met with Madrid president Florentino Perez on May 13 although PSG remain confident the forward, who is contracted to 2022, will stay put.
The former Barca star dropped a hint that he could be interested in joining Manchester City, admitting that he would like to work with Pep Guardiola one day.It is, however, Madrid who are the favourites to land the forward but he says he's focused on Brazil ahead of the showpiece tournament in Russia.
"The focus is now on the Brazilian team," he told reporters.
"They are talking nonsense. It's not worth answering."Neymar scored 28 goals for PSG in his first campaign with the French giants, who won Ligue 1, the Coupe de France and Coupe de la Ligue.The Brazil international, who missed a chunk of the 2017-18 campaign due to a foot injury, has resumed training but has suggested he is not yet at 100 per cent, with the World Cup just three weeks away.
Ranieri backs Sarri to succeed at Chelsea
Former Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri believes ex-Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri can succeed at Stamford Bridge if appointed by the Premier League side.Sarri was replaced by Carlo Ancelotti at Napoli amid growing links with Chelsea, where fellow Italian Antonio Conte is tipped to leave.
The 59-year-old Sarri – who Goal understands is nearing a move to take over the Blues – guided Napoli to their second runners-up finish in three seasons, having threatened to dethrone Serie A champions Juventus this term.
Ranieri – a Premier League-winning manager with Leicester City – spent four years at Chelsea before he was sacked in 2004 and he warned Sarri about owner Roman Abramovich."Sarri to Chelsea? It depends what Maurizio is like. He'll see little or nothing of the president," Ranieri, who left Ligue 1 outfit Nantes after just one season, told Sky Italia."He'll have to work hard, and that's not something he lacks.
"Sarri has done well at every level, including Empoli where people said he wasn't ready for big teams."Now they know him all over Europe and I'm sure he can take his football and his philosophy anywhere."
Ranieri was also asked about Napoli's appointment of former AC Milan, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich head coach Ancelotti.Ancelotti is reportedly set to be backed heavily in the transfer market by Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis and Ranieri said: "I was a bit surprised, I imagined Carlo abroad.
"I have to congratulate De Laurentiis who has pulled off a big coup, because he's brought the most decorated Italian coach, who has won so much abroad, to Napoli."
Former Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri believes ex-Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri can succeed at Stamford Bridge if appointed by the Premier League side.Sarri was replaced by Carlo Ancelotti at Napoli amid growing links with Chelsea, where fellow Italian Antonio Conte is tipped to leave.
The 59-year-old Sarri – who Goal understands is nearing a move to take over the Blues – guided Napoli to their second runners-up finish in three seasons, having threatened to dethrone Serie A champions Juventus this term.
Ranieri – a Premier League-winning manager with Leicester City – spent four years at Chelsea before he was sacked in 2004 and he warned Sarri about owner Roman Abramovich."Sarri to Chelsea? It depends what Maurizio is like. He'll see little or nothing of the president," Ranieri, who left Ligue 1 outfit Nantes after just one season, told Sky Italia."He'll have to work hard, and that's not something he lacks.
"Sarri has done well at every level, including Empoli where people said he wasn't ready for big teams."Now they know him all over Europe and I'm sure he can take his football and his philosophy anywhere."
Ranieri was also asked about Napoli's appointment of former AC Milan, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich head coach Ancelotti.Ancelotti is reportedly set to be backed heavily in the transfer market by Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis and Ranieri said: "I was a bit surprised, I imagined Carlo abroad.
"I have to congratulate De Laurentiis who has pulled off a big coup, because he's brought the most decorated Italian coach, who has won so much abroad, to Napoli."
'Liverpool should get Eriksen & Alli' - Collymore calls for summer spending spree
Liverpool should be looking to sign the likes of Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli this summer, says Stan Collymore, with Fenway Sports Group called upon to back an elaborate spending spree by Jurgen Klopp.
The Reds did break their transfer record when landing £75 million ($100m) man Virgil van Dijk in January, while Naby Keita is set to arrive in a £52m ($69m) deal, but there are funds available from the sale of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona and a run through to the Champions League final.Collymore wants to see those invested back into the squad, with it vital that the Anfield board display some ambition in the next window if the gap is to be closed on Manchester City in the Premier League and progress maintained in Europe.
The former Reds striker wrote in a column for the Daily Mirror: “The pressure is on the Fenway Sports Group – and now they have to deliver for Jurgen Klopp.
“Liverpool’s owners need to use the Champions League Final as a platform to build a squad that is capable of standing squarely toe-to-toe with those being assembled in Manchester.“The first XI put together by the affable German has shown that, on its day, it can compete with the very best.
“It has dismantled defences across Europe. It has shredded a lot of reputations in the Premier League as goals have rained down.“But, for all of their promise in the second half of this season, Liverpool do not have the strength in depth of their two great rivals.”Collymore added: “If the Reds are to close the gap, they need genuine A-listers as back-up. And I believe now is the time to strike.
“By reaching two European finals in three seasons, Klopp has shown he can manage.“And now FSG have to demonstrate their commitment too by using the £75m-plus generated by this run and back their man in the transfer market.
“I am not talking about signing the likes of Andy Robertson – as good as he has been.“I am talking about wandering into White Hart Lane, plonking £150m on the table in front of Daniel Levy and saying: ‘I’ll give you that for Christian Eriksen, Toby Alderweireld and Dele Alli.’
“I would still like the owners to give the green light for three or four marquee signings.”Liverpool are being linked with several high-profile signings, with it possible that additions could be made across the board.
A disastrous showing by Loris Karius in a 3-1 Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid has reignited calls for a new goalkeeper to be found, while defensive issues remain and greater options are required in the final third to support the ‘Fab Three’ of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino.
Liverpool should be looking to sign the likes of Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli this summer, says Stan Collymore, with Fenway Sports Group called upon to back an elaborate spending spree by Jurgen Klopp.
The Reds did break their transfer record when landing £75 million ($100m) man Virgil van Dijk in January, while Naby Keita is set to arrive in a £52m ($69m) deal, but there are funds available from the sale of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona and a run through to the Champions League final.Collymore wants to see those invested back into the squad, with it vital that the Anfield board display some ambition in the next window if the gap is to be closed on Manchester City in the Premier League and progress maintained in Europe.
The former Reds striker wrote in a column for the Daily Mirror: “The pressure is on the Fenway Sports Group – and now they have to deliver for Jurgen Klopp.
“Liverpool’s owners need to use the Champions League Final as a platform to build a squad that is capable of standing squarely toe-to-toe with those being assembled in Manchester.“The first XI put together by the affable German has shown that, on its day, it can compete with the very best.
“It has dismantled defences across Europe. It has shredded a lot of reputations in the Premier League as goals have rained down.“But, for all of their promise in the second half of this season, Liverpool do not have the strength in depth of their two great rivals.”Collymore added: “If the Reds are to close the gap, they need genuine A-listers as back-up. And I believe now is the time to strike.
“By reaching two European finals in three seasons, Klopp has shown he can manage.“And now FSG have to demonstrate their commitment too by using the £75m-plus generated by this run and back their man in the transfer market.
“I am not talking about signing the likes of Andy Robertson – as good as he has been.“I am talking about wandering into White Hart Lane, plonking £150m on the table in front of Daniel Levy and saying: ‘I’ll give you that for Christian Eriksen, Toby Alderweireld and Dele Alli.’
“I would still like the owners to give the green light for three or four marquee signings.”Liverpool are being linked with several high-profile signings, with it possible that additions could be made across the board.
A disastrous showing by Loris Karius in a 3-1 Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid has reignited calls for a new goalkeeper to be found, while defensive issues remain and greater options are required in the final third to support the ‘Fab Three’ of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino.
Stricken Salah confident over World Cup hopes
Liverpool and Egypt star Mohamed Salah believes he will be ready to play at the 2018 World Cup despite suffering a shoulder injury during Saturday's 3-1 Champions League final defeat against Real Madrid.The forward's hopes of making Russia suffered a huge blow when he was forced off in Kiev after tangling with Madrid defender Sergio Ramos.While early reports over the severity of the injury have been mixed, most agree that Salah will struggle to recover from his injury in time for the tournament.
Indeed, Turki Al-Sheikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia's Sport Authority, affirmed on Sunday that he would not be taking part in the World Cup.Salah, however, is more optimistic, stating that he is "confident" of his chances."It was a very tough night, but I'm a fighter," the Liverpool star stated on Twitter.
"Despite the odds, I'm confident that I'll be in Russia to make you all proud. Your love and support will give me the strength I need."Under FIFA regulations, Egypt will have until June 4 to decide whether Salah is able to play a part in the World Cup. After that date submissions for each nation's 23-man squad are closed, giving the Liverpool man precious little time to prove his fitness before the deadline.
Egypt have been drawn against host nation Russia, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in Group A of the tournament.Salah joined Liverpool from Roma for £36.9million last July and the former Chelsea man proved a revelation on his first season back in the Premier League.
A haul of 44 goals in all competitions saw him win a host of awards including the Professional Footballers' Association and Football Writers' Association Player of the Year double.
Liverpool and Egypt star Mohamed Salah believes he will be ready to play at the 2018 World Cup despite suffering a shoulder injury during Saturday's 3-1 Champions League final defeat against Real Madrid.The forward's hopes of making Russia suffered a huge blow when he was forced off in Kiev after tangling with Madrid defender Sergio Ramos.While early reports over the severity of the injury have been mixed, most agree that Salah will struggle to recover from his injury in time for the tournament.
Indeed, Turki Al-Sheikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia's Sport Authority, affirmed on Sunday that he would not be taking part in the World Cup.Salah, however, is more optimistic, stating that he is "confident" of his chances."It was a very tough night, but I'm a fighter," the Liverpool star stated on Twitter.
"Despite the odds, I'm confident that I'll be in Russia to make you all proud. Your love and support will give me the strength I need."Under FIFA regulations, Egypt will have until June 4 to decide whether Salah is able to play a part in the World Cup. After that date submissions for each nation's 23-man squad are closed, giving the Liverpool man precious little time to prove his fitness before the deadline.
Egypt have been drawn against host nation Russia, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in Group A of the tournament.Salah joined Liverpool from Roma for £36.9million last July and the former Chelsea man proved a revelation on his first season back in the Premier League.
A haul of 44 goals in all competitions saw him win a host of awards including the Professional Footballers' Association and Football Writers' Association Player of the Year double.
Inter admit they can't stop Icardi sale if Real Madrid, Man Utd or PSG come calling
Luciano Spalletti admits Inter have to be “ready for anything” as a big-money bid for Mauro Icardi will leave them powerless to prevent a sale.
The Argentine forward has enjoyed another standout campaign in Italy, with a 29-goal haul in Serie A earning him a share of the Capocannoniere alongside Lazio striker Ciro Immobile.It is those efforts, combined with a proven track record, which have seen the 25-year-old heavily linked with the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain.
Inter have maintained that they have no intention of parting with their talismanic skipper, but there is also an acknowledgement at San Siro that they cannot stop other sides tabling tempting offers.Spalletti told Sky Sport Italia on Icardi’s future heading into the summer transfer window: "I've spoken with Mauro several times and he sent very precise signals.
"He's happy at Inter and wants to stay, but then there are clubs which, if they decide to take a player, you could have been saying I won't leave here the day before, then the next day they take you and in the end you're happy to go, even though the previous day you were thinking very differently."We have to be ready for anything, but for now there are no signals and no doubts about what he wants."Icardi has been with Inter since 2013, netting 107 times across five seasons.
He is now a much sought-after asset, with his wife and agent, Wanda Nara, revealing recently that “big clubs” have expressed a willingness to meet a €110 million (£96m/$128m) release clause in his contract.She told Radio Metro: “There are some big clubs ready to pay the release clause, which is very high, but considering the figures that are circulating in football right now and the kind of player Mauro is, it’s not even that remarkable.
“There are many clubs putting pressure on, but his priority is Inter. There will be a meeting with their director of sport and the priority as of today is to stay here.”
Luciano Spalletti admits Inter have to be “ready for anything” as a big-money bid for Mauro Icardi will leave them powerless to prevent a sale.
The Argentine forward has enjoyed another standout campaign in Italy, with a 29-goal haul in Serie A earning him a share of the Capocannoniere alongside Lazio striker Ciro Immobile.It is those efforts, combined with a proven track record, which have seen the 25-year-old heavily linked with the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain.
Inter have maintained that they have no intention of parting with their talismanic skipper, but there is also an acknowledgement at San Siro that they cannot stop other sides tabling tempting offers.Spalletti told Sky Sport Italia on Icardi’s future heading into the summer transfer window: "I've spoken with Mauro several times and he sent very precise signals.
"He's happy at Inter and wants to stay, but then there are clubs which, if they decide to take a player, you could have been saying I won't leave here the day before, then the next day they take you and in the end you're happy to go, even though the previous day you were thinking very differently."We have to be ready for anything, but for now there are no signals and no doubts about what he wants."Icardi has been with Inter since 2013, netting 107 times across five seasons.
He is now a much sought-after asset, with his wife and agent, Wanda Nara, revealing recently that “big clubs” have expressed a willingness to meet a €110 million (£96m/$128m) release clause in his contract.She told Radio Metro: “There are some big clubs ready to pay the release clause, which is very high, but considering the figures that are circulating in football right now and the kind of player Mauro is, it’s not even that remarkable.
“There are many clubs putting pressure on, but his priority is Inter. There will be a meeting with their director of sport and the priority as of today is to stay here.”
‘I’m not close to Liverpool’ – Fekir deals Reds a transfer blow
Nabil Fekir has said that he is “not close” to a move to Liverpool and intimated that he will take some time to decide upon his future.
The Lyon attacker had been closely linked with a move to the Anfield club this summer, though OL president Jean-Michel Aulas said on Friday that he still hoped the France international may yet remain with the Ligue 1 outfit.While Fekir is still talking about the prospect of leaving Champions League-bound Lyon, he has said that any transfer to Liverpool is no formality and that there are still several clubs in the running for his signature.
“I'm not close to a move to the Reds,” he told TF1’s Telefoot programme. “There are discussions with several clubs, but I will take time to think.”This was information supported by Aulas, who reiterated what he had said earlier in the week.
“For the moment, we’re not talking with Nabil,” he said. “He’s been the architect of a great season. Nabil has not indicated that he wants to leave or if he wants to play one more year with Champions League football.” Fekir enjoyed a stellar season with Lyon, scoring 18 goals and creating seven more in Ligue 1 as they finished third behind Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco.
There was disappointment in Europe, however, as Fekir missed the CSKA Moscow defeat that ultimately cost them a place in the quarter-finals of the Europa League, the final of which was played at Parc OL.
His words, meanwhile, will be a further blow for Liverpool, who are smarting from European defeat of their own, having suffered a 3-1 loss to Real Madrid in the final of the Champions League, in which star attacker Mohamed Salah went off injured with a shoulder injury that manager Jurgen Klopp described as “serious”.Fekir has been touted to leave Lyon this summer but would likely command a price tag in the region of €70 million (£62m/$82m).
Arsenal and Chelsea have also been linked with a potential move for the 24-year-old, who will be a member of Didier Deschamps’ 23-man France squad in Russia for the World Cup this summer.
Nabil Fekir has said that he is “not close” to a move to Liverpool and intimated that he will take some time to decide upon his future.
The Lyon attacker had been closely linked with a move to the Anfield club this summer, though OL president Jean-Michel Aulas said on Friday that he still hoped the France international may yet remain with the Ligue 1 outfit.While Fekir is still talking about the prospect of leaving Champions League-bound Lyon, he has said that any transfer to Liverpool is no formality and that there are still several clubs in the running for his signature.
“I'm not close to a move to the Reds,” he told TF1’s Telefoot programme. “There are discussions with several clubs, but I will take time to think.”This was information supported by Aulas, who reiterated what he had said earlier in the week.
“For the moment, we’re not talking with Nabil,” he said. “He’s been the architect of a great season. Nabil has not indicated that he wants to leave or if he wants to play one more year with Champions League football.” Fekir enjoyed a stellar season with Lyon, scoring 18 goals and creating seven more in Ligue 1 as they finished third behind Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco.
There was disappointment in Europe, however, as Fekir missed the CSKA Moscow defeat that ultimately cost them a place in the quarter-finals of the Europa League, the final of which was played at Parc OL.
His words, meanwhile, will be a further blow for Liverpool, who are smarting from European defeat of their own, having suffered a 3-1 loss to Real Madrid in the final of the Champions League, in which star attacker Mohamed Salah went off injured with a shoulder injury that manager Jurgen Klopp described as “serious”.Fekir has been touted to leave Lyon this summer but would likely command a price tag in the region of €70 million (£62m/$82m).
Arsenal and Chelsea have also been linked with a potential move for the 24-year-old, who will be a member of Didier Deschamps’ 23-man France squad in Russia for the World Cup this summer.
Kahn defends Karius & accuses Ramos of elbowing Liverpool goalkeeper
Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius may have been affected by a collision with Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos before making two errors during Saturday’s Champions League final, Oliver Kahn has argued.
The former Bayern Munich and Germany No.1 has suggested that Ramos elbowed Karius early in the second half, which may have had an impact on his compatriot's concentration later in the game.
Liverpool went down 3-1 to Real Madrid, with the Spanish side getting their opener in bizarre style as Karim Benzema blocked Karius' attempted throw out into the net. Although Sadio Mane levelled, Gareth Bale put the Spaniards back into the lead with a spectacular overhead kick before sealing the victory with a long-range shot the Reds keeper fumbled into his net.
Kahn, though, believes the off-the-ball collision may have played a greater role than is being given credit.
"You can only speculate whether the alleged elbow impacted Karius,” he told ZDF.“But an elbow to the face is certainly not very comfortable and in that situation it was unnecessary by Ramos.“There is no need to use the elbow in that situation.”
Although he criticised the defender over that incident, Kahn did admit that Ramos is a player he holds in the highest regard.“He is the kind of player that I would have always selected first in school to have him on my team because he is an absolute leader who works with all measures,” he said.
Ramos had scored in two of his previous three Champions League final appearances, but while he was not on target on Saturday, he had an impact on many of the match’s most controversial moments, having been involved previously in an incident that saw Mohamed Salah go off injured in the opening period.
Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius may have been affected by a collision with Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos before making two errors during Saturday’s Champions League final, Oliver Kahn has argued.
The former Bayern Munich and Germany No.1 has suggested that Ramos elbowed Karius early in the second half, which may have had an impact on his compatriot's concentration later in the game.
Liverpool went down 3-1 to Real Madrid, with the Spanish side getting their opener in bizarre style as Karim Benzema blocked Karius' attempted throw out into the net. Although Sadio Mane levelled, Gareth Bale put the Spaniards back into the lead with a spectacular overhead kick before sealing the victory with a long-range shot the Reds keeper fumbled into his net.
Kahn, though, believes the off-the-ball collision may have played a greater role than is being given credit.
"You can only speculate whether the alleged elbow impacted Karius,” he told ZDF.“But an elbow to the face is certainly not very comfortable and in that situation it was unnecessary by Ramos.“There is no need to use the elbow in that situation.”
Although he criticised the defender over that incident, Kahn did admit that Ramos is a player he holds in the highest regard.“He is the kind of player that I would have always selected first in school to have him on my team because he is an absolute leader who works with all measures,” he said.
Ramos had scored in two of his previous three Champions League final appearances, but while he was not on target on Saturday, he had an impact on many of the match’s most controversial moments, having been involved previously in an incident that saw Mohamed Salah go off injured in the opening period.
'Salah will miss World Cup' - Injury rules Liverpool star out for two months, claims Saudi sports administratorMohamed Salah will be sidelined for two months by the shoulder injury he sustained during Liverpool's Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid and miss Egypt's World Cup campaign, according to Saudi Arabian sports administrator Turki Al-Sheikh.Salah was substituted after 30 minutes of Saturday's showpiece encounter in Kiev, having grappled with Madrid captain Sergio Ramos and landed heavily on the turf.
Gareth Bale came off the bench to steal the headlines with a game-changing overhead kick after Sadio Mane cancelled out Karim Benzema's opener – Reds goalkeeper Loris Karius culpable for the latter as he was Bale's second seven minutes from time in a 3-1 Madrid victory.
In his post-match interviews, Reds boss Jurgen Klopp expressed fears Salah would miss Russia 2018, but the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) tweeted a statement claiming there was "optimism" the Premier League Golden Boot winner would be fit for their Group A opener against Uruguay on June 15 after speaking to Liverpool officials.
Al-Sheikh holds a number of administrative roles, including chairman of the Saudi Arabia Sport Authority and president of the Sports Federation of Islamic Solidarity.Until the end of last week he was an honorary president of Egyptian club Al-Ahly and is understood to have close links to the federation in the North African country.
Al-Sheikh used social media to give a message of support to Salah before the final but, in a Facebook post on Sunday, he claimed the 25-year-old's World Cup dream was over – at odds with the EFA's official line.
"With great sadness, sadly our great Arab star Mohamed Salah was confirmed in his absence [of] two months to injury, which means that he will miss the World Cup," he said. "We wish him a speedy recovery."I think that Liverpool will not allow Salah to take the cortisone because it is dangerous for the player in the long term and will press hard to complete the treatment for two months, which unfortunately means that we will not see the star Mohamed Salah in the World Cup."
Saudi Arabia have also been drawn in Egypt's World Cup group alongside hosts Russia and Al-Sheikh caused controversy in March when, after Salah scored in a friendly versus Portugal, he tweeted to suggest it would be beneficial for the Liverpool favourite to miss the round-robin match against the Gulf state."When it comes to Twitter, I speak as fan and not as a minister," he told Four Four Two Arabia when discussing the incident this month.
"When I commented on the Saudi team, it was because of excitement. I may make mistakes and I might be right and I might be harsh in some of the terms I use."But when it comes to Mohamed Salah, he's a great Arab player and has allowed us to lift our heads high as Arabs. I am a fan.
"But what I wish is he wouldn't play against our team during that match [at the World Cup]. I want to miss him during this match, just this match."
