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Cardiff record signing Sala feared on board missing plane over English Channel
There are “genuine concerns” for the wellbeing of Cardiff City’s record signing Emiliano Sala following the disappearance of a plane he is believed to have been travelling on.
A light aircraft which is understood to have departed Nantes for Wales vanished from the radar off Alderney in the Channel Islands on Monday evening.Goal sources say two people were on board the plane, Sala and the pilot, but it lost contact with air traffic control near Casquets lighthouse – around eight miles north-west of Guernsey in the English Channel.
AP have also stated that the French civil aviation authority have confirmed Sala was aboard the passenger plane that has gone missing.
Argentine striker Sala completed a £15 million ($19m) move to Cardiff on Saturday having netted 12 Ligue 1 goals already this season and his new club expressed serious concerns on Tuesday morning about his whereabouts.“We are very concerned by the latest news that a light aircraft lost contact over the Channel last night," the club said in a statement. "We are awaiting confirmation before we can say anything further.
"We are very concerned for the safety of Emiliano Sala."A coastguard rescue helicopter and the RNLI joined the hunt for the missing plane on Monday, despite the disappearance occurring outside of the UK search and rescue area.
A statement released by Guernsey Police read: “A search and rescue operation is currently underway off the north of Alderney after a light aircraft disappeared from radar several hours ago.“Two helicopters alongside the Guernsey and Alderney lifeboats are searching for it.”
The initial search was terminated at 2am GMT, with all rescue assets stood down amid strengthening winds and poor visibility.The search was resumed once conditions improved. A further update from Guernsey Police on Tuesday morning read: “Searching for the light aircraft PA 46 Malibu resumed at 8am this morning.“No trace has currently been found. It was en route from Nantes, France to Cardiff, Wales with two people.”
Having seen a switch to Cardiff confirmed over the weekend, Sala had taken to social media to say his goodbyes to those in Nantes.
Cardiff City's chief executive Ken Choo had said of the deal: "I'm sure all Cardiff City fans will join me in that and we can look forward to seeing our record signing in a Bluebirds shirt."The French Football Federation has suggested calling off Nantes' Coupe de France game against Sannois Saint-Gratien on Wednesday night due to the incident.
Cardiff are without a game until next Tuesday against Arsenal due having already been eliminated from the FA Cup, with fourth round fixtures taking place in the UK this weekend.
Koscielny backs Bellerin to return from injury 'stronger than before'
Laurent Koscielny says Arsenal team-mate Hector Bellerin should try to "enjoy life" during his injury lay-off and has backed the Spaniard to return "stronger than before".
Gunners right-back Bellerin has been ruled out for the rest of the 2018-19 season after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee in a Premier League win against Chelsea on Saturday.
Bellerin was making his first start since recovering from a calf strain sustained in December, but he could now be out of action for as long as nine months.
Koscielny, though, feels his fellow Arsenal defender can use the opportunity to explore opportunities away from the pitch before making his comeback."Like I said to him yesterday, 'Put football on the side and enjoy a bit of your life with your family and friends'," Koscielny told Sky Sports. "He is starting a new chapter of his career."It will be long but he is a strong boy and I know he has the people around him to help him and be back as soon as possible and stronger than before.
"He knows all the team are here to help him because we know he will have some difficult moments during his rehab, like Rob [Holding] and Danny [Welbeck], but they know all the team are here and behind them to help them come back with us and help us to have results together."
Koscielny is no stranger to the treatment room himself, with the 33-year-old having only recently returned to action after rupturing his Achilles."It was very hard during some moments because I missed the World Cup," said the France defender. "But you learn a lot about life, you are more positive about football because you know it's just a small part of your life, and you have some good things off the pitch.
"I discovered a lot about life so I was surprised about that. I was very focused on my rehab so sometimes you are in a bubble and you can't see people trying to help you to be back as soon as possible.
"It's important to open your eyes because there are good things. Now I am more positive about my life and career and try to keep the negative things outside of my body.
"When you are a football player you are focused on football, media, results and you forget a lot of things around you. You can forget family and kids a bit because you are with your team-mates all the time. It's important to open your eyes and enjoy life as well as your football career.
"I enjoy my career more now than before I was injured because I learned a lot about football and life. I just want to enjoy it."
Laurent Koscielny says Arsenal team-mate Hector Bellerin should try to "enjoy life" during his injury lay-off and has backed the Spaniard to return "stronger than before".
Gunners right-back Bellerin has been ruled out for the rest of the 2018-19 season after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee in a Premier League win against Chelsea on Saturday.
Bellerin was making his first start since recovering from a calf strain sustained in December, but he could now be out of action for as long as nine months.
Koscielny, though, feels his fellow Arsenal defender can use the opportunity to explore opportunities away from the pitch before making his comeback."Like I said to him yesterday, 'Put football on the side and enjoy a bit of your life with your family and friends'," Koscielny told Sky Sports. "He is starting a new chapter of his career."It will be long but he is a strong boy and I know he has the people around him to help him and be back as soon as possible and stronger than before.
"He knows all the team are here to help him because we know he will have some difficult moments during his rehab, like Rob [Holding] and Danny [Welbeck], but they know all the team are here and behind them to help them come back with us and help us to have results together."
Koscielny is no stranger to the treatment room himself, with the 33-year-old having only recently returned to action after rupturing his Achilles."It was very hard during some moments because I missed the World Cup," said the France defender. "But you learn a lot about life, you are more positive about football because you know it's just a small part of your life, and you have some good things off the pitch.
"I discovered a lot about life so I was surprised about that. I was very focused on my rehab so sometimes you are in a bubble and you can't see people trying to help you to be back as soon as possible.
"It's important to open your eyes because there are good things. Now I am more positive about my life and career and try to keep the negative things outside of my body.
"When you are a football player you are focused on football, media, results and you forget a lot of things around you. You can forget family and kids a bit because you are with your team-mates all the time. It's important to open your eyes and enjoy life as well as your football career.
"I enjoy my career more now than before I was injured because I learned a lot about football and life. I just want to enjoy it."
Ander Herrera has revealed the simple message Ole Gunnar Solskjaer gave Manchester United players to turn their form around this season.The Old Trafford side are on a seven-game winning run since the Norwegian was appointed caretaker manager until the end of the season, replacing Jose Mourinho following his dismissal in December.
The 19 goals scored and five conceded under the new boss marks an incredible turnaround for the Red Devils, who are once again in contention for a top-four finish in the Premier League.
And Herrera suggests United's big improvement has been inspired by the simple message Solskjaer has been giving to his players since he arrived."Since the first day he arrived the message has been very clear: this is Manchester United and you have to show that you are Manchester United players," Herrera told the club's website.
"He asked us to show that, and that we want the ball even in the difficult moments in games. I think we have done that. Newcastle away, for example, is a really tough atmosphere, they are waiting every year for United to come so they can try to beat us, but I think the team reacted very well in the second half."
The Spanish midfielder is enjoying working with the former United striker and has noticed the team's spirits have been lifted, but he feels the real test will come when they have to bounce back from a disappointing result.
"It’s been very good,” Herrera said. "Everyone is happy and he has brought a lot of positivity into the team. He knows what Manchester United means and he wants the players to know that as well.
"We have [seven] wins in a row so we cannot ask for more, but we have to be prudent as we are in the middle of the season with a lot of games to play and we have a really tough schedule in February.
"Our attacking players overall are really enjoying playing close to the opposition box, we are creating a lot of chances and we are being the protagonist team in every game – so we are really happy. But this is only [seven] games and we have to keep the balance right, to keep winning and performing the way we are doing.
"I think we are going to have tough moments and tough games, so let’s see how the team reacts and how we fight against those circumstances."
Ibrahimovic urges Kane to leave 'normal' Tottenham if he wants to win trophies
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has told Harry Kane that he needs to leave “normal” Tottenham in order to challenge for trophies and fulfil his true potential.
The England captain is a product of Spurs’ academy system and a talisman the club’s loyal fanbase revel in hailing as one of their own.His commitment to the cause in north London has never been in doubt, with another long-term contract signed in the summer of 2018.
He is, however, 25 years of age, with nearly 200 goals to his name and yet to add any major honours to his collection.
Two Premier League Golden Boots represent the height of his club achievements to date, and a former rival believes he may need to consider a switch in order to secure the success his talent deserves.Ex-Manchester United frontman Ibrahimovic, who is now on the books of MLS side the LA Galaxy, told Bethard: “When I was in England, I saw him play. I think he is a good striker. He's still developing, he's doing good things.
“But I always say, playing in a big club, performing good is different from playing in... with all respect to Tottenham, a 'normal' club.“I think he can make it. He just needs to make the move, and people will remember you for what you win.
“So if he wants to win, then yes, I think he needs to change.”Big-money moves for Kane have been mooted in the past.His name is regularly mentioned among the list of so-called ‘Galacticos’ that Real Madrid have their eye on.
Barcelona will also be in the market for a long-term successor to Luis Suarez at some stage, while Manchester United have been credited with holding an interest in the not too distant past.
Kane is, however, part of the Tottenham set-up for now and will hope to prove that he can land top honours while in his current surroundings.He is unable to aid that cause at present, though, with an untimely ankle injury expected to keep him out of action until March.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic has told Harry Kane that he needs to leave “normal” Tottenham in order to challenge for trophies and fulfil his true potential.
The England captain is a product of Spurs’ academy system and a talisman the club’s loyal fanbase revel in hailing as one of their own.His commitment to the cause in north London has never been in doubt, with another long-term contract signed in the summer of 2018.
He is, however, 25 years of age, with nearly 200 goals to his name and yet to add any major honours to his collection.
Two Premier League Golden Boots represent the height of his club achievements to date, and a former rival believes he may need to consider a switch in order to secure the success his talent deserves.Ex-Manchester United frontman Ibrahimovic, who is now on the books of MLS side the LA Galaxy, told Bethard: “When I was in England, I saw him play. I think he is a good striker. He's still developing, he's doing good things.
“But I always say, playing in a big club, performing good is different from playing in... with all respect to Tottenham, a 'normal' club.“I think he can make it. He just needs to make the move, and people will remember you for what you win.
“So if he wants to win, then yes, I think he needs to change.”Big-money moves for Kane have been mooted in the past.His name is regularly mentioned among the list of so-called ‘Galacticos’ that Real Madrid have their eye on.
Barcelona will also be in the market for a long-term successor to Luis Suarez at some stage, while Manchester United have been credited with holding an interest in the not too distant past.
Kane is, however, part of the Tottenham set-up for now and will hope to prove that he can land top honours while in his current surroundings.He is unable to aid that cause at present, though, with an untimely ankle injury expected to keep him out of action until March.
Ronaldo pleads guilty to tax fraud during Real Madrid spell and accepts suspended prison sentence
Cristiano Ronaldo has pleaded guilty to tax charges relating to his time at Real Madrid and accepted a suspended prison sentence.
The Portuguese was in the Spanish capital on Tuesday to appear before a judge after being accused of defrauding authorities out of income generated through image rights.Back in 2017, Ronaldo stated that he had never tried to avoid paying the relevant taxes on his income.
He was, however, accused by a state prosecutor of four counts of tax fraud from the period of 2011 to 2014. Ronaldo was said to have hidden €14.7m (£13m/$17m) in shell companies outside of Spain.
The accusations do not involve the salary he was paid by Real Madrid after joining the club from Manchester United in 2009.He appeared in court as a ruling on his case was made.In Spain, a judge can hand out a two-year suspended sentence for first-time offenders.
Ronaldo has accepted a 23-month judgement after reaching an agreement with the state prosecutor and the relevant tax authorities in 2018.He will, however, have to pay out nearly €19m (£17m/$22m) in fines.The 33-year-old opted to appear in court in person after declining the option to address a judge by video link.
His time in Madrid is not expected to last long having already reached a prior agreement with the authorities.Ronaldo’s former team-mate, Xabi Alonso, may require a little longer, though, in resolving his case.
The ex-Liverpool midfielder also stands accused of defrauding tax authorities of approximately €2m (£1.8m) between 2010 and 2012.Once again, the charges relate to income generated from image rights.World Cup winner Alonso could be sentenced to five years in prison and fined €4m (£3.5m) on top of the money he already owes.
The 37-year-old, who retired in 2017, denies any wrongdoing.Ronaldo and Alonso are not the first footballing figures to have been subjected to such investigations by Spanish tax authorities over recent years.
Lionel Messi, Jose Mourinho, Javier Mascherano, Marcelo, Luka Modric, Alexis Sanchez, Ricardo Carvalho, Angel Di Maria, Radamel Falcao and Fabio Coentrao have all faced similar charges.
Cristiano Ronaldo has pleaded guilty to tax charges relating to his time at Real Madrid and accepted a suspended prison sentence.
The Portuguese was in the Spanish capital on Tuesday to appear before a judge after being accused of defrauding authorities out of income generated through image rights.Back in 2017, Ronaldo stated that he had never tried to avoid paying the relevant taxes on his income.
He was, however, accused by a state prosecutor of four counts of tax fraud from the period of 2011 to 2014. Ronaldo was said to have hidden €14.7m (£13m/$17m) in shell companies outside of Spain.
The accusations do not involve the salary he was paid by Real Madrid after joining the club from Manchester United in 2009.He appeared in court as a ruling on his case was made.In Spain, a judge can hand out a two-year suspended sentence for first-time offenders.
Ronaldo has accepted a 23-month judgement after reaching an agreement with the state prosecutor and the relevant tax authorities in 2018.He will, however, have to pay out nearly €19m (£17m/$22m) in fines.The 33-year-old opted to appear in court in person after declining the option to address a judge by video link.
His time in Madrid is not expected to last long having already reached a prior agreement with the authorities.Ronaldo’s former team-mate, Xabi Alonso, may require a little longer, though, in resolving his case.
The ex-Liverpool midfielder also stands accused of defrauding tax authorities of approximately €2m (£1.8m) between 2010 and 2012.Once again, the charges relate to income generated from image rights.World Cup winner Alonso could be sentenced to five years in prison and fined €4m (£3.5m) on top of the money he already owes.
The 37-year-old, who retired in 2017, denies any wrongdoing.Ronaldo and Alonso are not the first footballing figures to have been subjected to such investigations by Spanish tax authorities over recent years.
Lionel Messi, Jose Mourinho, Javier Mascherano, Marcelo, Luka Modric, Alexis Sanchez, Ricardo Carvalho, Angel Di Maria, Radamel Falcao and Fabio Coentrao have all faced similar charges.
Emiliano Sala missing plane: Rescue operation suspended as hopes fade for Cardiff City striker
The search for a plane carrying Cardiff City record signing Emiliano Sala has been suspended until Wednesday morning, local police have confirmed, with chances for survival "slim" for the Argentine.
Sala and a pilot were on a small aircraft flying from Nantes to Wales on Monday evening when it disappeared off radar off the coast of Guernsey, in the English Channel between the UK and France.A search was carried out on Tuesday but, at 5pm local time, the search and rescue team confirmed that no trace of either person aboard the plane had been found. With daylight fading, police suspended the search for Tuesday.
"During the course of the 15-hour search, which used multiple air and sea assets from the Channel Islands, UK and France, a number of floating objects have been seen in the water," Guernsey Police said on Twitter.
"We have been unable to confirm whether any of these are from the missing aircraft."In a further update, the police sounded a pessimistic note on Sala and the pilot's chances of survival due to the cold temperature and weather conditions.
"We have found no signs of those on board. If they did land on the water, the chances of survival are at this stage, unfortunately, slim."Cardiff released a statement earlier on Tuesday from club CEO Ken Choo, who said the club were "praying for positive news".
"We were very shocked upon hearing the news that the plane had gone missing. We expected Emiliano to arrive last night into Cardiff and today was due to be his first day with the team," the statement read.
"Our owner, Tan Sri Vincent Tan, and chairman, Mehmet Dalman, are all very distressed about the situation.
"We made the decision first thing this morning to call off training with the thoughts of the squad, management staff and the entire club with Emiliano and the pilot."All of us at Cardiff City FC would like to thank our fans, and the entire footballing family for their support at this difficult time. We continue to pray for positive news."
Sala completed a £15 million ($19m) move to Cardiff from Ligue 1 side Nantes on Saturday, and had travelled back to France to bid farewell to his former team-mates.
The search for a plane carrying Cardiff City record signing Emiliano Sala has been suspended until Wednesday morning, local police have confirmed, with chances for survival "slim" for the Argentine.
Sala and a pilot were on a small aircraft flying from Nantes to Wales on Monday evening when it disappeared off radar off the coast of Guernsey, in the English Channel between the UK and France.A search was carried out on Tuesday but, at 5pm local time, the search and rescue team confirmed that no trace of either person aboard the plane had been found. With daylight fading, police suspended the search for Tuesday.
"During the course of the 15-hour search, which used multiple air and sea assets from the Channel Islands, UK and France, a number of floating objects have been seen in the water," Guernsey Police said on Twitter.
"We have been unable to confirm whether any of these are from the missing aircraft."In a further update, the police sounded a pessimistic note on Sala and the pilot's chances of survival due to the cold temperature and weather conditions.
"We have found no signs of those on board. If they did land on the water, the chances of survival are at this stage, unfortunately, slim."Cardiff released a statement earlier on Tuesday from club CEO Ken Choo, who said the club were "praying for positive news".
"We were very shocked upon hearing the news that the plane had gone missing. We expected Emiliano to arrive last night into Cardiff and today was due to be his first day with the team," the statement read.
"Our owner, Tan Sri Vincent Tan, and chairman, Mehmet Dalman, are all very distressed about the situation.
"We made the decision first thing this morning to call off training with the thoughts of the squad, management staff and the entire club with Emiliano and the pilot."All of us at Cardiff City FC would like to thank our fans, and the entire footballing family for their support at this difficult time. We continue to pray for positive news."
Sala completed a £15 million ($19m) move to Cardiff from Ligue 1 side Nantes on Saturday, and had travelled back to France to bid farewell to his former team-mates.
Paris Saint-Germain 2 Strasbourg 0: Neymar suffers injury scare in Coupe victory
Neymar provided Paris Saint-Germain with an injury scare after hobbling off having appeared to twist his right foot in the 2-0 Coupe de France win over Strasbourg.
PSG's 9-0 thrashing of Guingamp on Saturday was soured by midfielder Marco Verratti suffering a sprained left ankle, and Neymar sustained a problem in their latest success.The Brazil forward received treatment for an issue seemingly sustained after a challenge from Strasbourg midfielder Moataz Zemzemi and, though Neymar returned to the pitch, he withdrew himself in the 62nd minute and was consoled as he made his way down the tunnel.
Thomas Tuchel's side had been 1-0 up at the time thanks to Edinson Cavani's early goal, and Angel Di Maria's 80th-minute volley made sure of their progress to the last 16.
PSG went ahead inside four minutes, Cavani placing home after Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting gathered Thiago Silva's long ball.After going close with a pair of free-kicks, Neymar somehow poked wide in front of an open goal after sliding to reach Di Maria's squared pass.
Cavani's downward header from a corner was clawed away by Matz Sels, who kept out Neymar's effort and saw Di Maria's follow-up attempt hit the post before half-time.Neymar's eventful evening continued when he suffered his apparent injury when trying to fend off Zemzemi, who attempted to tackle the Brazilian three times before the referee's whistle went.
The PSG forward was unhappy with the rough treatment meted out and got a form of revenge when he flicked the ball over the Strasbourg midfielder before firing wide from the resultant set piece.However, Neymar left the pitch shortly after and his evening ended with 28 minutes still to play.
It appeared to have an adverse effect on Tuchel's men, who barely created anything until Di Maria reached Julian Draxler's back-post cross to make sure of the win 10 minutes from time.
That killed off any hope of a Strasbourg fightback and also allowed Tuchel to introduce Jese Rodriguez from the bench for his first PSG appearance since December 2016.
Neymar provided Paris Saint-Germain with an injury scare after hobbling off having appeared to twist his right foot in the 2-0 Coupe de France win over Strasbourg.
PSG's 9-0 thrashing of Guingamp on Saturday was soured by midfielder Marco Verratti suffering a sprained left ankle, and Neymar sustained a problem in their latest success.The Brazil forward received treatment for an issue seemingly sustained after a challenge from Strasbourg midfielder Moataz Zemzemi and, though Neymar returned to the pitch, he withdrew himself in the 62nd minute and was consoled as he made his way down the tunnel.
Thomas Tuchel's side had been 1-0 up at the time thanks to Edinson Cavani's early goal, and Angel Di Maria's 80th-minute volley made sure of their progress to the last 16.
PSG went ahead inside four minutes, Cavani placing home after Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting gathered Thiago Silva's long ball.After going close with a pair of free-kicks, Neymar somehow poked wide in front of an open goal after sliding to reach Di Maria's squared pass.
Cavani's downward header from a corner was clawed away by Matz Sels, who kept out Neymar's effort and saw Di Maria's follow-up attempt hit the post before half-time.Neymar's eventful evening continued when he suffered his apparent injury when trying to fend off Zemzemi, who attempted to tackle the Brazilian three times before the referee's whistle went.
The PSG forward was unhappy with the rough treatment meted out and got a form of revenge when he flicked the ball over the Strasbourg midfielder before firing wide from the resultant set piece.However, Neymar left the pitch shortly after and his evening ended with 28 minutes still to play.
It appeared to have an adverse effect on Tuchel's men, who barely created anything until Di Maria reached Julian Draxler's back-post cross to make sure of the win 10 minutes from time.
That killed off any hope of a Strasbourg fightback and also allowed Tuchel to introduce Jese Rodriguez from the bench for his first PSG appearance since December 2016.
Sevilla 2 Barcelona 0: Resting Messi backfires for Copa del Rey holders
Pablo Sarabia and Wissam Ben Yedder scored in the second half to earn Sevilla a deserved 2-0 victory over Barcelona, who rested Lionel Messi, in the first leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final.
Messi came off the bench to help Barca beat Leganes in LaLiga at the weekend, but Ernesto Valverde left his captain out entirely at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan on Wednesday, handing a debut to shock signing Kevin-Prince Boateng in attack instead.
Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho came on as substitutes but, if Barca are to win the Copa del Rey for a fifth year in a row, they will have to overturn a first-leg deficit as they did in the last round against Levante.
Sarabia struck to capitalise on a period of Sevilla dominance with Ben Yedder adding a late second, Pablo Machin's side bouncing back from a run of three straight losses in all competitions to stun the holders, although they lost talismanic winger Jesus Navas to injury.
Sevilla thought they had been awarded a penalty in the first half when Arturo Vidal blocked a cross with his upper arm, but a VAR review opted not to give a spot-kick.
Ben Yedder should have given Sevilla the lead in the 36th minute, brilliantly beating Gerard Pique during a dazzling solo run but slicing his shot badly wide of the post.
Barca missed an even better chance before the break, Malcom running on to a sublime Arthur pass to round Juan Soriano but hitting his finish into the side-netting.Quincy Promes and Ibrahim Amadou wasted good opportunities after the restart as Sevilla continued to impress, the opening goal deservedly arriving in the 58th minute.
Promes raided down Sevilla's left wing and floated a cross into the Barca box, Sarabia meeting the ball with an excellent first-time finish that gave Jasper Cillessen no chance.And Sevilla gave themselves a further cushion ahead of the return fixture when they scored what might prove to be a decisive second goal in the 76th minute.
Andre Silva and Ever Banega combined to tee up Ben Yedder at the back post, the striker using his celebration to show a message of support to missing Cardiff City striker Emiliano Sala.
Pablo Sarabia and Wissam Ben Yedder scored in the second half to earn Sevilla a deserved 2-0 victory over Barcelona, who rested Lionel Messi, in the first leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final.
Messi came off the bench to help Barca beat Leganes in LaLiga at the weekend, but Ernesto Valverde left his captain out entirely at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan on Wednesday, handing a debut to shock signing Kevin-Prince Boateng in attack instead.
Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho came on as substitutes but, if Barca are to win the Copa del Rey for a fifth year in a row, they will have to overturn a first-leg deficit as they did in the last round against Levante.
Sarabia struck to capitalise on a period of Sevilla dominance with Ben Yedder adding a late second, Pablo Machin's side bouncing back from a run of three straight losses in all competitions to stun the holders, although they lost talismanic winger Jesus Navas to injury.
Sevilla thought they had been awarded a penalty in the first half when Arturo Vidal blocked a cross with his upper arm, but a VAR review opted not to give a spot-kick.
Ben Yedder should have given Sevilla the lead in the 36th minute, brilliantly beating Gerard Pique during a dazzling solo run but slicing his shot badly wide of the post.
Barca missed an even better chance before the break, Malcom running on to a sublime Arthur pass to round Juan Soriano but hitting his finish into the side-netting.Quincy Promes and Ibrahim Amadou wasted good opportunities after the restart as Sevilla continued to impress, the opening goal deservedly arriving in the 58th minute.
Promes raided down Sevilla's left wing and floated a cross into the Barca box, Sarabia meeting the ball with an excellent first-time finish that gave Jasper Cillessen no chance.And Sevilla gave themselves a further cushion ahead of the return fixture when they scored what might prove to be a decisive second goal in the 76th minute.
Andre Silva and Ever Banega combined to tee up Ben Yedder at the back post, the striker using his celebration to show a message of support to missing Cardiff City striker Emiliano Sala.
AC Milan seal €35m Piatek signing following Higuain departure
AC Milan have confirmed the €35 million (£30m/$40m) signing of Krzysztof Piatek from Genoa.
The 23-year-old striker has signed a contract at San Siro through to the end of the 2022-23 season and will be presented to the media on Thursday.The move was announced just minutes after Chelsea confirmed that Gonzalo Higuain joined the club on an initial loan deal with a purchase option.
Piatek will replace the Argentine, who scored eight goals while spending the first half of the season on loan at Milan from Juventus. Poland international Piatek rose to prominence this season, having scored 19 goals in 21 games for Genoa while drawing comparisons to his countryman Robert Lewandowski.
The forward spent just a half season with Genoa, having only joined the Serie A side last summer from KS Cracovia in Poland for a reported fee of €4m.Piatek also became a full international this season, having made his debut for his country in September 2018.
He becomes Gennarro Gattuso's second major signing of the January window after they brought in talented Brazilian forward Lucas Paqueta from Flamengo.Milan currently sit fourth in the Serie A table, 22 points back of runaway leaders Juventus. Piatek could make his Milan debut in a crunch clash with second-place Napoli on Saturday.
AC Milan have confirmed the €35 million (£30m/$40m) signing of Krzysztof Piatek from Genoa.
The 23-year-old striker has signed a contract at San Siro through to the end of the 2022-23 season and will be presented to the media on Thursday.The move was announced just minutes after Chelsea confirmed that Gonzalo Higuain joined the club on an initial loan deal with a purchase option.
Piatek will replace the Argentine, who scored eight goals while spending the first half of the season on loan at Milan from Juventus. Poland international Piatek rose to prominence this season, having scored 19 goals in 21 games for Genoa while drawing comparisons to his countryman Robert Lewandowski.
The forward spent just a half season with Genoa, having only joined the Serie A side last summer from KS Cracovia in Poland for a reported fee of €4m.Piatek also became a full international this season, having made his debut for his country in September 2018.
He becomes Gennarro Gattuso's second major signing of the January window after they brought in talented Brazilian forward Lucas Paqueta from Flamengo.Milan currently sit fourth in the Serie A table, 22 points back of runaway leaders Juventus. Piatek could make his Milan debut in a crunch clash with second-place Napoli on Saturday.
Chelsea complete loan move for Higuain
Chelsea have confirmed that Gonzalo Higuain has joined the club from Juventus on an initial loan deal with an option to buy this summer.
Higuain joins the Blues after spending the first half of the campaign on loan at AC Milan, where he scored eight goals.The forward now moves to Chelsea on loan, although the club has an option to buy for £31.6 million ($41m), Juventus confirmed .
Juventus also confirmed that there is an option to extend the duration of the loan until June 2020 for a fee of £15.7 million ($20.5m).
With the timing of the move, the Argentine is not eligible to feature against Tottenham in the Carabao Cup semi-final on Thursday.Higuain, who will take the No. 9 shirt, comes in as as Alvaro Morata prepares for a loan-to-buy move to Atletico Madrid .
Chelsea have confirmed that Gonzalo Higuain has joined the club from Juventus on an initial loan deal with an option to buy this summer.
Higuain joins the Blues after spending the first half of the campaign on loan at AC Milan, where he scored eight goals.The forward now moves to Chelsea on loan, although the club has an option to buy for £31.6 million ($41m), Juventus confirmed .
Juventus also confirmed that there is an option to extend the duration of the loan until June 2020 for a fee of £15.7 million ($20.5m).
With the timing of the move, the Argentine is not eligible to feature against Tottenham in the Carabao Cup semi-final on Thursday.Higuain, who will take the No. 9 shirt, comes in as as Alvaro Morata prepares for a loan-to-buy move to Atletico Madrid .
"When the opportunity to join Chelsea presented itself I had to take it," Higuain told the club's official website . "It’s a team I’ve always liked that has a lot of history, a wonderful stadium and they play in the Premier League, a league I’ve always wanted to play in."I now hope I can give back that trust Chelsea have shown me out on the pitch. I can’t wait to start and I hope to adapt as soon as possible."
Higuain was on loan with AC Milan following a stint with Juventus that began in 2016 after shining under current Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri at Napoli.Under Sarri, Higuain finished as top scorer in Serie A with 36 goals in 2015-16, equalling the Italian top-flight record in the process.
"Gonzalo was our number one target in this transfer window and arrives with a proven record at the highest level," said Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia."He has previously worked with Maurizio to great effect and is familiar with how the coach likes to play."
Higuain could debut against Sheffield Wednesday in the fourth round of the FA Cup on Sunday before Sarri's side return to Premier League play against Bournemouth next Wednesday.Milan, meanwhile, have completed the £31m ($40m) signing of Genoa striker Krzysztof Piatek in their bid to replace Higuain.
Bellerin mature enough to come back stronger for Arsenal - Emery
Arsenal manager Unai Emery says Hector Bellerin is mature enough to recover from his latest injury set back and come back a stronger player.It was revealed on Tuesday that the 23-year-old will be ruled out for up to nine months after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament against Chelsea last weekend.
Bellerin had only just recovered from a calf strain that had kept him out of action over the festive period, but he is now set to miss the rest of the 2018-19 season at least.
Speaking to the Gunners' official website , Emery said: "Yes, we were sad and we are sad now after his injury. I think this year is very difficult for big injuries like Hector, Rob Holding and [Danny] Welbeck.
"But football is like that. We need to treat these injuries like a normality in football, but we are very sad for that."Hector Bellerin is very mature and I think he received this injury like a football professional can take and he is already preparing to come back stronger than before."
The right-back was stretchered off in the 70th minute at the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal cruised to a 2-0 win during a crucial game in the race to qualify for next year's Champions League.Both Holding and Welbeck are expected to miss the remainder of the campaign as well, and Emery admitted his side is in need of new recruits this month.
The north London club is in fierce competition with Chelsea and Manchester United for a spot in the Premier League's top four as well as well as competing in the FA Cup and Europa League.
Chelsea currently occupy fourth spot in England's top flight, with both Arsenal and the Red Devils trailing by just three points after United have bridged an eight point gap to the Gunners since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer took over.Emery's side will take on United for the first time since Solskjaer's appointment as interim boss when the two teams clash in the FA Cup fourth round at the Emirates Stadium this Friday.
There are few obvious replacements for Bellerin in that game, but Nacho Monreal or Ainsley Maitland-Niles could deputise.
Arsenal manager Unai Emery says Hector Bellerin is mature enough to recover from his latest injury set back and come back a stronger player.It was revealed on Tuesday that the 23-year-old will be ruled out for up to nine months after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament against Chelsea last weekend.
Bellerin had only just recovered from a calf strain that had kept him out of action over the festive period, but he is now set to miss the rest of the 2018-19 season at least.
Speaking to the Gunners' official website , Emery said: "Yes, we were sad and we are sad now after his injury. I think this year is very difficult for big injuries like Hector, Rob Holding and [Danny] Welbeck.
"But football is like that. We need to treat these injuries like a normality in football, but we are very sad for that."Hector Bellerin is very mature and I think he received this injury like a football professional can take and he is already preparing to come back stronger than before."
The right-back was stretchered off in the 70th minute at the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal cruised to a 2-0 win during a crucial game in the race to qualify for next year's Champions League.Both Holding and Welbeck are expected to miss the remainder of the campaign as well, and Emery admitted his side is in need of new recruits this month.
The north London club is in fierce competition with Chelsea and Manchester United for a spot in the Premier League's top four as well as well as competing in the FA Cup and Europa League.
Chelsea currently occupy fourth spot in England's top flight, with both Arsenal and the Red Devils trailing by just three points after United have bridged an eight point gap to the Gunners since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer took over.Emery's side will take on United for the first time since Solskjaer's appointment as interim boss when the two teams clash in the FA Cup fourth round at the Emirates Stadium this Friday.
There are few obvious replacements for Bellerin in that game, but Nacho Monreal or Ainsley Maitland-Niles could deputise.
Barcelona beat PSG & Man City to complete €75m De Jong deal
Barcelona have announced the signing of midfielder Frenkie de Jong from Ajax for an initial fee of €75 million (£65m/$85m).The highly-rated 21-year-old was also a target for both Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, but the Catalan giants have now clinched the signing of their man.
De Jong will link up with his new club in July this year having signed a five-year contract, and the deal could include a further €11 million (£10m/$12m) in add-ons.
He also made a cameo performance in the Europa League final against Manchester United, coming on as a second-half substitute.
Barcelona have announced the signing of midfielder Frenkie de Jong from Ajax for an initial fee of €75 million (£65m/$85m).The highly-rated 21-year-old was also a target for both Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, but the Catalan giants have now clinched the signing of their man.
De Jong will link up with his new club in July this year having signed a five-year contract, and the deal could include a further €11 million (£10m/$12m) in add-ons.
In the wake of Barcelona's third signing of the Januray window, following the arrivals of Kevin Prince Boateng and Jeison Murillo, the club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu tweeted: "With the arrival of Frenkie de Jong we add talent, youth and Barça style to our sporting project."We are convinced that he will be a key part of our team for years to come. Welcome, Frenkie!"
De Jong follows a number of former Ajax players to join the Liga club, with Johan Cruyff, Ronald Koeman, Patrick Kluivert, Frank de Boer and Luis Suarez among the most successful to have played for both sides.The Netherlands international playmaker has scored three goals and bagged one assist in the Eredivisie this term, after picking up seven assists last season.
Although his preferred role is in midfield, he has featured at centre-back for Ajax in the past and is known for his versatility.
He also made a cameo performance in the Europa League final against Manchester United, coming on as a second-half substitute.
De Jong could feature against Barca's rivals Real Madrid when Ajax take them on in the last 16 of the Champions League in February.His team-mate at the Dutch club Matthijs de Ligt, who won the Golden Boy award back in December, has also been linked with a move to Barca as well as Man City, PSG and Juventus.
The centre-back's future is yet to be decided, but City are reported to be the most likely destination for the 19-year-old at present with Pep Guardiola a keen admirer of De Ligt's ability to play out from the back as well as his defensive strength.
Chelsea 2 Tottenham 1 (2-2 agg, 4-2 on penalties): Blues advance to EFL Cup final
Chelsea battled past Tottenham to book a place in the EFL Cup final against holders Manchester City, triumphing 4-2 on penalties after a stirring 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge.
Maurizio Sarri got the desired reaction, having questioned the mentality of his Chelsea players in the aftermath of Saturday's defeat to Arsenal, as N'Golo Kante and Eden Hazard overturned the 1-0 first-leg deficit before half-time.
Tottenham, without any of Harry Kane, Dele Alli or Son Heung-min in a competitive match for the first time since October 2016, found a response of their own by pegging Chelsea back with Fernando Llorente netting an aggregate equaliser.
The shoot-out opened in nerveless fashion, but Eric Dier blazed over the bar and Lucas Moura shot tamely to Kepa Arrizabalaga's left, leaving David Luiz to steer in and spark raucous celebrations.
Returning Tottenham midfielder Dier clattering into David Luiz before fouling Jorginho set a scrappy early tone prior to the hosts going in front after 27 minutes.Kante was given ample room to lash a partially cleared corner back towards goal and his shot zipped through the legs of Ben Davies, Moussa Sissoko and Spurs goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga.
Hazard was revelling in the freedom of having Olivier Giroud playing alongside him as a specialist target man and he fed Pedro to find the overlapping Cesar Azpilicueta, before continuing his run to coolly convert the Spain full-back's cross.
Danny Rose came on for the injured Davies in between the Chelsea goals and the England left-back played a key role as an improved Spurs levelled five minutes into the second half, with Llorente heading home his delivery from the left.Llorente was unable to find the clean contact Christian Eriksen's delicious swerving cross deserved – he made way for Lucas in the 68th minute – while Pedro fired too close to Gazzaniga at the end of a frantic Chelsea attack.
Giroud, with Gonzalo Higuain looking on from the stands, passed up a pair of glorious chances in stoppage time and penalties were required for the Blues to book a date at Wembley.
Chelsea battled past Tottenham to book a place in the EFL Cup final against holders Manchester City, triumphing 4-2 on penalties after a stirring 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge.
Maurizio Sarri got the desired reaction, having questioned the mentality of his Chelsea players in the aftermath of Saturday's defeat to Arsenal, as N'Golo Kante and Eden Hazard overturned the 1-0 first-leg deficit before half-time.
Tottenham, without any of Harry Kane, Dele Alli or Son Heung-min in a competitive match for the first time since October 2016, found a response of their own by pegging Chelsea back with Fernando Llorente netting an aggregate equaliser.
The shoot-out opened in nerveless fashion, but Eric Dier blazed over the bar and Lucas Moura shot tamely to Kepa Arrizabalaga's left, leaving David Luiz to steer in and spark raucous celebrations.
Returning Tottenham midfielder Dier clattering into David Luiz before fouling Jorginho set a scrappy early tone prior to the hosts going in front after 27 minutes.Kante was given ample room to lash a partially cleared corner back towards goal and his shot zipped through the legs of Ben Davies, Moussa Sissoko and Spurs goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga.
Hazard was revelling in the freedom of having Olivier Giroud playing alongside him as a specialist target man and he fed Pedro to find the overlapping Cesar Azpilicueta, before continuing his run to coolly convert the Spain full-back's cross.
Danny Rose came on for the injured Davies in between the Chelsea goals and the England left-back played a key role as an improved Spurs levelled five minutes into the second half, with Llorente heading home his delivery from the left.Llorente was unable to find the clean contact Christian Eriksen's delicious swerving cross deserved – he made way for Lucas in the 68th minute – while Pedro fired too close to Gazzaniga at the end of a frantic Chelsea attack.
Giroud, with Gonzalo Higuain looking on from the stands, passed up a pair of glorious chances in stoppage time and penalties were required for the Blues to book a date at Wembley.
Real Madrid 4 Girona 2: Ramos double earns quarter-final lead
Sergio Ramos scored twice as Real Madrid earned a 4-2 lead in a pulsating first leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final at home to Girona.Anthony Lozano gave Girona an early lead at the Santiago Bernabeu on Thursday, but Madrid battled back thanks to Lucas Vazquez's equaliser and a Ramos penalty.
Another spot-kick saw Girona equalise, Alex Granell stepping up to convert after Marcos Llorente needlessly handled the ball in the box, but Ramos and Karim Benzema struck late.
Madrid's captain rose highest in the box to crash home a header from Marcelo's cross and Girona's hopes were dashed when Benzema slotted in a Vinicius Junior cross.Madrid forced a trio of early corners, but Girona took the lead with their first attack in the seventh minute, Raul Garcia given too much space on the left to deliver a cross Lozano met on the volley.
The hosts soon levelled, though, Benzema sending Alvaro Odriozola clear in the right channel to pull back a low pass that Vazquez placed home.Madrid led in the 42nd minute, Ramos beating Gorka Iraizoz with a Panenka from the spot after Vinicius's feet were too quick for Lozano on the edge of the box.
Benzema clipped the post before the break but when Llorente thrust out his hand to deflect a cross Girona made the tie all square, Granell confidently smashing his penalty beyond Thibaut Courtois.Vinicius was involved again as Madrid regained the lead in the 77th minute, getting into space on the left to tee up Marcelo for a cross Ramos was never going to miss.
Madrid were not finished, however, and substitute Isco threaded a pass through for Vinicius, who slipped a low cross into the box that Benzema gobbled up to give Santiago Solari's side a two-goal cushion.
Sergio Ramos scored twice as Real Madrid earned a 4-2 lead in a pulsating first leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final at home to Girona.Anthony Lozano gave Girona an early lead at the Santiago Bernabeu on Thursday, but Madrid battled back thanks to Lucas Vazquez's equaliser and a Ramos penalty.
Another spot-kick saw Girona equalise, Alex Granell stepping up to convert after Marcos Llorente needlessly handled the ball in the box, but Ramos and Karim Benzema struck late.
Madrid's captain rose highest in the box to crash home a header from Marcelo's cross and Girona's hopes were dashed when Benzema slotted in a Vinicius Junior cross.Madrid forced a trio of early corners, but Girona took the lead with their first attack in the seventh minute, Raul Garcia given too much space on the left to deliver a cross Lozano met on the volley.
The hosts soon levelled, though, Benzema sending Alvaro Odriozola clear in the right channel to pull back a low pass that Vazquez placed home.Madrid led in the 42nd minute, Ramos beating Gorka Iraizoz with a Panenka from the spot after Vinicius's feet were too quick for Lozano on the edge of the box.
Benzema clipped the post before the break but when Llorente thrust out his hand to deflect a cross Girona made the tie all square, Granell confidently smashing his penalty beyond Thibaut Courtois.Vinicius was involved again as Madrid regained the lead in the 77th minute, getting into space on the left to tee up Marcelo for a cross Ramos was never going to miss.
Madrid were not finished, however, and substitute Isco threaded a pass through for Vinicius, who slipped a low cross into the box that Benzema gobbled up to give Santiago Solari's side a two-goal cushion.
'Leader' Pogba could be Man Utd captain after Mourinho demotion - Solskjaer
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has branded Paul Pogba “a leader” and insists he wouldn’t think twice about handing him the Manchester United captaincy after being stripped of the deputy role by Jose Mourinho earlier this season.
Pogba regularly led United out during Mourinho’s reign, including three times at the beginning of 2018-19 before the Portuguese decided that he would never again hand the Frenchman the armband as their relationship became frosty.“The only truth is that I made the decision for Paul not to be the second captain any more,” said Mourinho in September 2018. “It was exactly the same person who decided Paul was the second captain: myself. No fallout at all, just decisions I do not have to explain.”
But now caretaker-manager Solskjaer insists he would have no issue asking Pogba to lead out the side, having seen since his days as the midfielder’s boss at reserve level that there is a leadership quality about him.
“Definitely, [I would consider him as captain], because I know the boy from before and he is a leader,” Solskjaer told a press conference ahead of Friday’s FA Cup clash away to Arsenal.
“He’s a character, he influences people and you’ve seen the videos from France, and he cares and he really wants to be successful. He knows he can’t do it by himself, it’s a team game and he’s a character that brings so many good things with him when he’s enjoying himself.
“You see the personality. He loves playing football, he’s a larger-than-life character, that’s just the way he is.“When the performances come as well, that marries together as a good leader and you see what it meant to him winning the World Cup. So for me, yes, he’s captain material.”
But now caretaker-manager Solskjaer insists he would have no issue asking Pogba to lead out the side, having seen since his days as the midfielder’s boss at reserve level that there is a leadership quality about him.“Definitely, [I would consider him as captain], because I know the boy from before and he is a leader,” Solskjaer told a press conference ahead of Friday’s FA Cup clash away to Arsenal.
“He’s a character, he influences people and you’ve seen the videos from France, and he cares and he really wants to be successful. He knows he can’t do it by himself, it’s a team game and he’s a character that brings so many good things with him when he’s enjoying himself.
“You see the personality. He loves playing football, he’s a larger-than-life character, that’s just the way he is.“When the performances come as well, that marries together as a good leader and you see what it meant to him winning the World Cup. So for me, yes, he’s captain material.”
But now caretaker-manager Solskjaer insists he would have no issue asking Pogba to lead out the side, having seen since his days as the midfielder’s boss at reserve level that there is a leadership quality about him.“Definitely, [I would consider him as captain], because I know the boy from before and he is a leader,” Solskjaer told a press conference ahead of Friday’s FA Cup clash away to Arsenal.
“He’s a character, he influences people and you’ve seen the videos from France, and he cares and he really wants to be successful. He knows he can’t do it by himself, it’s a team game and he’s a character that brings so many good things with him when he’s enjoying himself.“You see the personality. He loves playing football, he’s a larger-than-life character, that’s just the way he is.
“When the performances come as well, that marries together as a good leader and you see what it meant to him winning the World Cup. So for me, yes, he’s captain material.”
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has branded Paul Pogba “a leader” and insists he wouldn’t think twice about handing him the Manchester United captaincy after being stripped of the deputy role by Jose Mourinho earlier this season.
Pogba regularly led United out during Mourinho’s reign, including three times at the beginning of 2018-19 before the Portuguese decided that he would never again hand the Frenchman the armband as their relationship became frosty.“The only truth is that I made the decision for Paul not to be the second captain any more,” said Mourinho in September 2018. “It was exactly the same person who decided Paul was the second captain: myself. No fallout at all, just decisions I do not have to explain.”
But now caretaker-manager Solskjaer insists he would have no issue asking Pogba to lead out the side, having seen since his days as the midfielder’s boss at reserve level that there is a leadership quality about him.
“Definitely, [I would consider him as captain], because I know the boy from before and he is a leader,” Solskjaer told a press conference ahead of Friday’s FA Cup clash away to Arsenal.
“He’s a character, he influences people and you’ve seen the videos from France, and he cares and he really wants to be successful. He knows he can’t do it by himself, it’s a team game and he’s a character that brings so many good things with him when he’s enjoying himself.
“You see the personality. He loves playing football, he’s a larger-than-life character, that’s just the way he is.“When the performances come as well, that marries together as a good leader and you see what it meant to him winning the World Cup. So for me, yes, he’s captain material.”
But now caretaker-manager Solskjaer insists he would have no issue asking Pogba to lead out the side, having seen since his days as the midfielder’s boss at reserve level that there is a leadership quality about him.“Definitely, [I would consider him as captain], because I know the boy from before and he is a leader,” Solskjaer told a press conference ahead of Friday’s FA Cup clash away to Arsenal.
“He’s a character, he influences people and you’ve seen the videos from France, and he cares and he really wants to be successful. He knows he can’t do it by himself, it’s a team game and he’s a character that brings so many good things with him when he’s enjoying himself.
“You see the personality. He loves playing football, he’s a larger-than-life character, that’s just the way he is.“When the performances come as well, that marries together as a good leader and you see what it meant to him winning the World Cup. So for me, yes, he’s captain material.”
But now caretaker-manager Solskjaer insists he would have no issue asking Pogba to lead out the side, having seen since his days as the midfielder’s boss at reserve level that there is a leadership quality about him.“Definitely, [I would consider him as captain], because I know the boy from before and he is a leader,” Solskjaer told a press conference ahead of Friday’s FA Cup clash away to Arsenal.
“He’s a character, he influences people and you’ve seen the videos from France, and he cares and he really wants to be successful. He knows he can’t do it by himself, it’s a team game and he’s a character that brings so many good things with him when he’s enjoying himself.“You see the personality. He loves playing football, he’s a larger-than-life character, that’s just the way he is.
“When the performances come as well, that marries together as a good leader and you see what it meant to him winning the World Cup. So for me, yes, he’s captain material.”
Henry suspended by Monaco pending final decision on Arsenal legend's future
Thierry Henry's future at Monaco is in doubt as the club have announced they have suspended the Arsenal legend from coaching duties, pending a final decision over his status.
The short statement from the club read: "AS Monaco announces that it has decided to suspend its duties as coach of the first team Thierry Henry from this day and waiting for a final decision."Franck Passi will train the professional group this Friday."
Henry has come under increasing pressure at the Ligue 1 side with results not improving since he took over from Leonardo Jardim in October in his first managerial role.The club is in the midst of a four game winless streak, and have not won in five in the league, leaving them 19th in the table and three points from safety.
This week featured a pair of disastrous results for Henry and Monaco, with the club getting routed at home, 5-1, against Strasbourg on January 19.Aside from the heavy defeat, Henry came under fire for comments made toward Strasbourg left-back Kenny Lala, as the manager insulted the defender's grandmother.
While Henry apologised, a 3-1 home defeat to second-division side Metz in the Coupe de France on Tuesday inflicted further humiliation on his side.
Henry then threatened on Thursday to leave out numerous first-team players from Monaco's weekend clash with Dijon, claiming he would only pick players up for the relegation fight."You have to see. There were not too many people in training yesterday. We'll see today," Henry said in his news conference Thursday.
"It's important to see the reaction at Dijon. We are in a critical situation - unfortunately, that has not changed."We tightened up the group. At some point, you need guys who want to save the club, who don't think about themselves. We're sorting it out. We're going to war."
Henry then threatened on Thursday to leave out numerous first-team players from Monaco's weekend clash with Dijon, claiming he would only pick players up for the relegation fight.
"You have to see. There were not too many people in training yesterday. We'll see today," Henry said in his news conference Thursday."It's important to see the reaction at Dijon. We are in a critical situation - unfortunately, that has not changed.
"We tightened up the group. At some point, you need guys who want to save the club, who don't think about themselves. We're sorting it out. We're going to war."
Thierry Henry's future at Monaco is in doubt as the club have announced they have suspended the Arsenal legend from coaching duties, pending a final decision over his status.
The short statement from the club read: "AS Monaco announces that it has decided to suspend its duties as coach of the first team Thierry Henry from this day and waiting for a final decision."Franck Passi will train the professional group this Friday."
Henry has come under increasing pressure at the Ligue 1 side with results not improving since he took over from Leonardo Jardim in October in his first managerial role.The club is in the midst of a four game winless streak, and have not won in five in the league, leaving them 19th in the table and three points from safety.
This week featured a pair of disastrous results for Henry and Monaco, with the club getting routed at home, 5-1, against Strasbourg on January 19.Aside from the heavy defeat, Henry came under fire for comments made toward Strasbourg left-back Kenny Lala, as the manager insulted the defender's grandmother.
While Henry apologised, a 3-1 home defeat to second-division side Metz in the Coupe de France on Tuesday inflicted further humiliation on his side.
Henry then threatened on Thursday to leave out numerous first-team players from Monaco's weekend clash with Dijon, claiming he would only pick players up for the relegation fight."You have to see. There were not too many people in training yesterday. We'll see today," Henry said in his news conference Thursday.
"It's important to see the reaction at Dijon. We are in a critical situation - unfortunately, that has not changed."We tightened up the group. At some point, you need guys who want to save the club, who don't think about themselves. We're sorting it out. We're going to war."
Henry then threatened on Thursday to leave out numerous first-team players from Monaco's weekend clash with Dijon, claiming he would only pick players up for the relegation fight.
"You have to see. There were not too many people in training yesterday. We'll see today," Henry said in his news conference Thursday."It's important to see the reaction at Dijon. We are in a critical situation - unfortunately, that has not changed.
"We tightened up the group. At some point, you need guys who want to save the club, who don't think about themselves. We're sorting it out. We're going to war."
Emiliano Sala missing plane: Search for Cardiff City's record signing called offAuthorities have confirmed that the search for the missing plane flying Cardiff City's record signing Emiliano Sala to South Wales has been called to an end.The aircraft carrying the striker from Nantes disappeared on Monday, losing contact with air traffic control near Casquets lighthouse – around eight miles north west of Guernsey in the English Channel.
The search reconvened on Thursday morning, but was called off in the early afternoon after officials felt they had exhausted their options.
A statement from Harbour Master Captain David Barker, released by Guernsey Police, reads:"My team have just met to review the search and rescue operation which has been underway since the plane disappeared on Monday night.
"Despite the best efforts of air and search assets from the Channel Islands, UK and France, which has covered an area of approximately 1,700sq. miles - with a significant amount of this searched more than once - and having examined mobile phone data and satellite imagery, we have been unable to find any trace of the aircraft, the pilot or passenger."There has been over 24 hours of continuous searching, with 80 hours combined flying time across three planes and five helicopters. Two lifeboats have also been involved, as well as assistance from various passing ships and fishing boats.
"We reviewed all the information available to us, as well as knowing what emergency equipment was on board, and have taken the difficult decision to end the search."The chances of survival at this stage are extremely remote."Next of kin have been informed of this development, and my thoughts go out to the family of the pilot and passenger at this most difficult of times.
"This has been a very thorough and extensive search, co-ordinated from the Guernsey-based Joint Emergency Services Control Centre and has seen exemplary co-operation from all countries involved, for which I would like to extend my personal thanks."The final aircraft searching for the missing plane and those on board has now landed. Although we are no longer actively searching, the incident remains open and we will be broadcasting to all vessels and aircraft in the area to keep a look out for any trace of the aircraft. This will continue indefinitely."
Tributes continue to pour in for the missing 28-year-old as well as pilot Dave Ibbotson.In a club statement on Thursday, Cardiff owner Vincent Tan said: “Monday evening’s news shook everyone at Cardiff City FC to the core.
“We were looking forward to providing Emiliano with the next step in his life and career.“Those who met Emiliano described a good-natured and humble young man who was eager to impress in the Premier League.
“The response from the football community has been truly touching and we place on record our sincere thanks to those who have sent messages of support.“We also thank everyone involved with the search and rescue operation, and continue to pray for Emiliano, David Ibbotson and their families.”
FA Cup Fixtures 2019.01.25
FA Cup Fixtures 2019.01.25
Bristol Vs Bolton
Arsenal Vs Manchester United
