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England boss Fabio Capello openly defies FA decision to remove captaincy from John Terry

The Italian believes the move should have been made after the Chelsea defender's trial, which starts on July 9, had been concluded

Fabio Capello has hit out at the Football Association's decision to remove the England captaincy from John Terry, and maintains he still considers the defender as his skipper.

The FA's move on Friday came after confirmation that the Chelsea centre-back's court case, in which he faces allegations of racial abuse towards QPR defender Anton Ferdinand, had been adjourned until July 9, a week after Euro 2012 ends.

Speaking about the decision for the first time, Capello revealed he has voiced his disapproval to FA chairman David Bernstein and believes the call should have been made after Terry's trial had finished.

"I do not agree with that decision," Capello told Rai1, which was translated by CNN correspondent Tancredi Palmeri.

"I also talked with the chairman, saying that I think Terry can't be sanctioned until a court, a civil court not the sport one, judge him guilty or not about what he is accused of. That's why I think Terry should keep the capitancy."

Despite being stripped of the role following a telephone conversation with Bernstein on Friday morning, the FA confirmed Terry is available to play for England in subsequent friendlies, as well as in Euro 2012.

Terry had previously been removed as captain in February 2010 after allegations of having an affair with Wayne Bridge's ex-girlfriend, before being reinstated by Capello in March 2011.

Rio Ferdinand, who had been named as permanent captain after Terry was removed in 2010, has already ruled himself out of filling the role once again.
 

Barcelona's Lionel Messi and Xavi slam 'arrogant' La Liga referees

Unhappy after two dropped points on Saturday, the Barca pair spoke out against allegedly sub-standard match officials in Spain's top league

Barcelona pair Lionel Messi and Xavi have revealed their frustration at what they consider unfair officiating during the team's 2011-12 Liga campaign, with Victor Valdes also criticising the standard of refereeing in Spain.

The Catalan club fell further behind rivals Real Madrid in the title race after being held to a 0-0 draw at Villarreal on Saturday, while Jose Mourinho's men downed Zaragoza 3-1 to open up a commanding seven-point lead at the top of the table.

Commenting after the final whistle, Argentine maestro Messi led the chorus of Barca players less than happy with the match-day officials.

"Sometimes they are arrogant, and they threaten to pull out a card at the most minor provocation," the Fifa Ballon d'Or winner told reporters after the game.

And his words were echoed by Xavi, who suggested that his team had been targeted by referees.

"I get the feeling that we are being punished more than other teams," was the midfielder's interpretation of events, while goalkeeper Valdes believes the Catalans should have been awarded more spot-kicks this term.

"Over the course of the season, some clear penalties have not been awarded," he said.

The draw at El Madrigal leaves Barca with 45 points after 20 games, and they will hope to cut the deficit at the top next weekend when they face Real Sociedad at home.

Lazio's Edy Reja: Miroslav Klose is better than AC Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic

The 66-year-old coach believes that the German striker gives more to the team than the spectacular Swede, while praising the Rossoneri's quality ahead of Wednesday's Serie A match

Lazio coach Edy Reja thinks that Miroslav Klose is a better all-round attacker than AC Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

The Germany international has been in impressive form for Lazio since joining the club in the summer, netting 11 goals in Serie A to date.

Ibrahimovic, meanwhile, is Milan's main attacking reference, with 15 to his name in the league so far, but Reja believes that the former Bayern Munich striker has more to offer the team as a whole.

"Ibra is more spectacular, he searches for opportunities to shoot," he told Lazio Style Radio.

"Klose brings a lot more to the team, he works for the team. He is a smart player, a true squad man."

Looking ahead to Lazio's home match against Milan on Wednesday, Reja praised Massimiliano Allegri's side.

"We are still growing, but in any case Milan are a great team, both technically and physically," he concluded.
 

Barcelona's Lionel Messi admits anguish over accusations of lack of passion for Argentina

The 24-year-old forward, who has spent half of his life living in Spain, insists that he loves his country and gives his all every time he lines up for the national team. Lionel Messi has admitted that he has been hurt by accusations that he does not care about playing for Argentina as much as he does for Barcelona.

The 24-year-old has established himself as the best player in the world on the back of his performances for the Spanish club side, but it has been alleged within his homeland that he has yet to perform as majestically on the international stage.

Some claimed that the perceived disparity in the quality of his performances was down to a lack of patriotism on the part of a player who moved to Barcelona when he was just 12.

Messi has dismissed this, and confessed that such talk saddened him.

“Yes, yes, it hurt, it bothered me,” the diminutive No.10 told Time Magazine, in the first occasion that a football player has been exclusively on the cover of the publication in Europe, Asia and the South Pacific.

“Because they said things that weren't true - that I didn't care as much about wearing the [Argentina] shirt.

“I didn't feel that, I didn't think that. And now, I think what people need to understand is that this is a team game, and that I try to play the same way there as I do in Barcelona, and always do the best I can.”

Messi also dismissed the suggestion that his love for his country has been diluted by having spent half of his life living in Catalunya.

“I've never stopped being Argentine and I've never wanted to,” he declared. “I feel very proud of being Argentine, even though I left there.

“I've been clear about this since I was very young, and I never wanted to change.

“Barcelona is my home because both the club and the people here have given me everything, but I won't stop being Argentine.”

Consequently, Messi is happy that he is no longer copping as much flak from his countrymen.

“Before, there was a lot of criticism and everything was bad,” he explained. “And now it's not like that.

“That's good, because every country I go to, people have always received me very well, and in my own country that wasn't happening.”

At both club and international level, Messi’s form is constantly being compared to that of Cristiano Ronaldo.

There is a school of thought that the pair’s rivalry brings the best out of both players, but the South American attacker does not see it like that.

“I don't think so,” he mused. “I never really fixated on him, or compared myself with another player.

“My mentality is just to achieve more each year, to grow both as an individual and as a team, and if he wasn't there, I'd be doing the same thing.

“I think he's a good person. I think he's a good player, who brings a lot to Real Madrid, and who, in any moment, can decide a game.

“But I care about how Madrid are doing because they're competing against us, and they're in La Liga, and because almost every year, we compete for the title.

“But [comparing myself] against Ronaldo, no.”

Messi has won the Ballon d'Or for the past three years and currently boasts a record of 141 goals in 196 La Liga games for Barca.
 

Ramos hits out at Busquets

Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos hits out at Barcelona's Sergio Busquets and reveals club will appeal his second yellow card in Wednesday's Clasico
The Spain defender has been left enraged by his red card during the closing stages of the game at Camp Nou, believing that his international colleague was guilty of play-acting

Sergio Ramos has accused Sergio Busquets of feigning injury to get him sent off in Wednesday night's Clasico against Barcelona and revealed that Real Madrid intend to appeal against his second yellow card.
The Spain defender was sent off in the closing stages of the Copa del Rey clash at Camp Nou for elbowing his international colleague in the face as the pair jumped for the ball.

However, Sergio Ramos, who refused to speak to reporters about his red card immediately after the game, insists that he did nothing wrong and believes that Busquets was guilty of play-acting.

"I am happy that the club are appealing my second yellow card because even though some don't stop rolling around [on the turf], I didn't touch him [Busquets]," the versatile defender wrote on Twitter.

Meanwhile, in a show of support for coach Jose Mourinho, with whom he is alleged to have had a training-ground dispute last week, Sergio Ramos also went online to wish the Portuguese a happy birthday.

"I would like to congratulate our coach Mourinho on his 49th birthday. Congratulations Boss!! Delighted to have you here," he wrote.

Madrid will be hoping to quickly put their Copa del Rey elimination behind them when they tackle Zaragoza at the Santiago Bernabeu this weekend.
 

Barcelona's Gerard Pique: Nobody can stop us if we play our own game

The towering defender has voiced his opinion that the Catalans are nearly unbeatable as long as they as they can maintain their focus and be themselves on the pitch

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has stated his belief that no team can beat the Champions League holders as long as they play their own game.

The Catalans recorded a 2-1 away win over arch-rivals Real Madrid on Wednesday evening in the first leg of Copa del Rey's quarter-finals, and the former Manchester United man is of the opinion that this has given Barca a big confidence boost.

"When we are ourselves, there's no team that can stop us. If we play like we are playing now, we can win titles, and be the best team in the world once again," Pique was quoted as saying on the official Barcelona website.

"We have implanted our style for several years and we always apply it. It doesn't matter where or who we play.

"I'm proud and happy to belong to this team. Very few teams can go to the Santiago Bernabeu and win like we have done. That makes us different."

Barcelona are currently preparing for the upcoming league game away against Malaga on Sunday.
 

Pep Guardiola: Loser of Copa del Rey clash between Barcelona & Real Madrid will end up wounded

The successful coach has voiced his opinion that defeat in the quarter-final tie could have consequences in other competitions for either his team or their bitter rivals

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has stated his belief that the outcome of the Copa del Rey tie between the Catalans and La Liga table-toppers Real Madrid could affect both clubs' form in the remainder of the season.

Madrid host their arch-rivals at the Santiago Bernabeu for the first-leg of the tie on Wednesday, and Guardiola is determined to get a good result in what he expects to be a difficult encounter.

"The team that loses this tie will end up wounded, and has to recover very quick," the coach told reporters at his press conference.

"I expect a very even game. Madrid are the strongest rival that we could possibly come across. Against Madrid, no one can feel as though they are favourites."

Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho: How many titles do I need to avoid being questioned?

The Portuguese has hit back at his critics, and stated that the silverware he has picked up as trainer is enough proof of his tactical prowess and ability

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has expressed his frustration with the lack of respect for his achievements of the past, and feels he has won enough titles to avoid being questioned for his decisions.

The Portuguese trainer was criticised for some of his recent tactical rotations ahead of the first leg of Madrid's Copa del Rey quarter-final against Barcelona, and was far from happy with the line of questioning.

"How many titles do I have to win in order to avoid being questioned for what I do? Tell me what I have to do to satisfy you," Mourinho said at a press conference.

"If I field Karim Benzema as my striker, you all ask about Gonzalo Higuain, but if he plays, you want to know why Benzema is out.

"If I play Pepe in midfield, you all stress he's better at the back, but if he plays in defence, you suggest I use him in midfield.

Neymar signs new Santos contract until 2014

The Brazilian forward has finally put pen-to-paper on his new contract, which seems him become available on a free transfer in the summer of 2014

Santos forward Neymar has officially penned a new contract with the Copa Libertadores winners until 2014.

The 19-year-old sensation had agreed to sign an improved deal with Santos in November, but his contract was only submitted to the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) on Friday.
Neymar's previous deal expired in February 2015, but the Brazil international has now agreed to commit his future to Santos only until the summer of 2014.

This means that the 2011 Fifa Puskas award winner may leave the club on a free transfer after the upcoming World Cup in Brazil.

The Santos star, who has 15 international caps to his name, is believed to be courted by Spanish duo Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Messi wins third successive Ballon d'Or

Barcelona's Lionel Messi beats Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo & team-mate Xavi to win third straight Ballon d'Or
The Argentine has emulated Michel Platini, the only other player to win the award three times in a row, and joins Johan Cruyff and Marco van Basten on a trio of successes

Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona and Argentina has beaten Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo and team-mate Xavi to claim the Fifa Ballon d'Or award for the best player of 2011.

It is the third straight Ballon d'Or success for Messi, who has now won the first two awards since the prestigious prize was merged with Fifa's World Player of the Year gong in 2010.

Messi was the clear favourite to claim the title after helping Barca to a third straight Liga title in 2011 and a second Champions League success in three years. The Argentine reveived 47.88 per cent of the overall vote, with Cristiano claiming 21.6% and Xavi in third with 9.23%.
Simply The Best

Messi beat team-mates Andres Iniesta and Xavi to the award in 2010, even though his colleagues had shone for Spain in La Roja's World Cup success in South Africa.

This time around there appeared little doubt he would claim the prize, as the undoubted star of a Barca side dominating domestically and on the continent in 2010-11.

Barca claimed La Liga and the Champions League last term, losing out to Real Madrid only in the final of the Copa del Rey in April, when Ronaldo rose to head the winner and secure his side's first silverware since 2007-08.

Messi enjoyed the last laugh over his Portuguese rival in 2011, however, claiming five trophies overall with Barca as the Catalans picked up the Spanish Supercopa, the Uefa Super Cup and the World Club Cup later in the year.

The Argentine forward, still only 24, has now drawn level with three-time winners Michel Platini [the only other player to win three in a row], Johan Cruyff and Marco van Basten.

And Cruyff, who has watched Messi emerge at Barca over the last few years, believes the Argentine can go on to claim the award six or seven times.


Messi also came out on top in the Goal.com 50 countdown of the world's best players in 2010-11, earlier on this year.

The Argentine scored 59 goals in 70 appearances for club and country in 2011, including 55 in 57 for Barcelona. He also racked up an incredible 35 assists in the calendar year.
 

FIFA Ballon d’Or stirs worldwide debate

The FIFA Ballon d’Or is the highest accolade any footballer can hope to receive. The famous golden statuette is a prize to which all players aspire, as it signifies that they have been recognised by their peers as the best in their profession.

But it also generates lively debate and discussion all over the globe, among players, coaches and fans. Indeed practically anyone with an interest in the beautiful game has an opinion on the top male and female players of the year, or on the best coaches of the year in men’s and women’s football.

With this year's FIFA Ballon d’Or Gala award winners set to be revealed on 9 January 2012 in Zurich, FIFA.com compiled a selection of some of the best awards-related predictions, comments and observations currently doing the rounds on planet football.

The nominees:
Cristiano Ronaldo via Twitter: “It’s great to be among the final three contenders nominated for the FIFA Ballon d'Or award again."

Lionel Messi: “I’m very much aware of the prestige associated with this award. Winning would give me the greatest pleasure. It gives me immense pride to think that, one day, perhaps, my name could be mentioned in the same breath as illustrious figures like Michel Platini, and that, given the number of years I still have in front of me, I might even surpass his total of three consecutive awards eventually.”

Xavi: “I’m extremely proud to have been nominated for the third successive year. It’s a great honour, and it’s not something I’ll ever forget. This wasn’t actually one of my goals when I was young. I simply wanted to become a professional footballer; winning the Ballon d'Or wasn’t really in my plans. For me, Lionel Messi is the best player in the world. He always makes a real difference in our matches.”

Marta: “Homare Sawa and Abby Wambach had a great World Cup, so my sixth win in a row is certainly not a foregone conclusion. But I’m happy to have been nominated, and am looking forward to attending the ceremony, which is always a wonderful occasion, and to meeting other sporting figures. It’s the eighth time that I’ve been nominated, which I’m delighted about.”

The former winners:
Marco van Basten (1988, 1989 and 1992): “There’s no doubt for me, Messi is clearly the best player in the world. He’s a veritable phenomenon who’s won everything but still wants more. His humility only makes him better in my eyes. I think he can become even more influential – he’s a born leader and should make his mark just like Diego Maradona did. I don’t mean just with Barcelona, but with Argentina too. He should win the Ballon d'Or award again. Not just for his skills, but for the Liga, Champions League and Spanish Super Cup medals he earned this year. He’s been a key figure for his team all season.”

Michel Platini (1983, 1984 and 1985): "Records are there to be broken, and my record of three successive Ballon d’Or awards will be broken one day. I arrived at Juventus at the age of 27, but if I’d started out there at 13 like Messi at Barcelona, who knows, maybe I would have won more of them.”

Johan Cruyff (1971, 1973 and 1974): “Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are truly exceptional players. But it all depends on how you view the game. The way I look at it, Xavi deserves it not because he’s the best, but because he’s the type of player whose hard work allows others to come to the fore.”

Eusebio (1965): “At this moment in time, the name of the top player in the world is Messi. Cristiano Ronaldo has also won the award before, but right now Messi is the best and deserves to win it. Even Ronaldo has recognised that Messi has been better than him this year.”

The coaches:
Muricy Ramalho: “Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho are the world’s top coaches. But I would suggest that, to truly be considered as the best in the game, you need to work in Brazil and win a championship. In Brazil, you can lead a team to the title, but if you don’t win your next match, you might still lose your job.”

Arsene Wenger: “I think Messi is the favourite, because he won both La Liga and the Champions League. In important matches, he’s been his side’s most decisive player.”

Vicente del Bosque: "Pep Guardiola has won the Spanish League and the UEFA Champions League. On top of that, he conducts himself in an exemplary fashion."

Pep Guardiola: “This is a very significant award. It’s an honour to have had three players nominated for it last year, and now two again this year. Barça players gaining this type of recognition comes down to the simple fact that we won a lot of trophies. If we hadn’t won anything, it wouldn’t make any sense. I’d like to congratulate my players, and may the best man win.”
 

Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho after victory over Malaga: I would have replaced my whole team at half-time if possible

The 48-year-old coach claimed his side had produced 'rubbish' in the first 45 minutes and said that some of his players had enjoyed too many excesses over the holidays

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho admitted that he was unhappy with his team's first-half display in the 3-2 victory over Malaga in the Copa del Rey on Tuesday night, saying his players were obliged to 'clean up the rubbish' they had produced in a disappointing opening 45 minutes.
Sergio Sanchez and Martin Demichelis gave Malaga a surprising two-goal lead at the break, before Madrid turned the score around in the second half, with three goals in 10 minutes, to take an important step towards reaching the quarter-finals of the competition.

After the match, Mourinho noted that it was crucial to change some things at the break and admitted it was not easy to decide which players he had to replace.

"I told my players at half-time that if I could make 11 substitutions, I would change the entire team," he told reporters at a post-match press conference.

"I could only make three, but I would have changed all 11 players. I changed three players so that the team could do different things, I thought about doing it before the break, but that is not something that I like.

"The three players that I replaced did not play any worse than the rest. I do not want to blame anyone."

Quizzed about the difference in attitude in the players from one half to the other, Mourinho told reporters to ask the players that same question.

"The pace of the match changed and so did the players' focus," Mourinho added. "If we could do it in the second half, why did they not do it in the first?

"The first half wasn't good and there was little concentration, but in the second half we were able to clean up the rubbish from the first as the fans got behind us.

"In the end, what matters in two-legged ties is the result. The most important thing is to win."

The Portuguese coach then remarked that some of his players are not in ideal shape following the Christmas holidays.

"We always try to return [from holidays] with enough time to go before the first match," Mourinho explained.

"But there are people who perceive these holidays as a time to rest, while others travel and do not stop eating and drinking and return a bit different."
 

Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho: I hope none of my players leave in January

The Portuguese coach is concerned that the winter transfer window may take its toll on his squad as several of his players remain linked to January departures

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho says he is hopeful that none of his players will leave the club in January.

Raul Albiol and Esteban Granero have both been linked with Madrid's exit door in recent weeks as the Spanish duo have been on the club's periphery under Mourinho.

Gonzalo Higuain's agent insisted on Saturday that the Argentina international was determined to see out his contract, meanwhile, but Mourinho is worried about the effects that the transfer window may have on his squad.

"Until January 30 I am open [to what happens], but I would not like it if someone left," he told reporters at a press conference on Monday.

"There aren't a lot [of us] and this is a closed and balanced group [considering we have] to play three different competitions."

Speaking ahead of Madrid's Copa del Rey match against Malaga, Mourinho refused to reveal whether he will make changes to his usual starting side.

"I have decided my team, but not even my players know who will play," he said.

Should Madrid and Barcelona progress in the competition, the two clubs will face each other in the quarter-finals, but Mourinho is not thinking about a potential showdown against the Catalan giants.

"We are not planning anything for the quarter-finals, because we do not even know if we will be there," he added.

"If we have to face Barca or Osasuna, then we will see. Right now, we want to reach the quarter-finals and for that to happen, we have to beat Malaga."

 

Barcelona's Andres Iniesta out for 15 days after tearing muscle against Hospitalet in Copa del Rey

The Spain international faces approximately two weeks on the sidelines after he sustained a muscular problem in a collision with goalkeeper Carlos Craviotto

Barcelona fans can breathe a sigh of relief after it was revealed that Andres Iniesta will be out for only 15 days following his injury in their 9-0 thrashing of Hospitalet in the Copa del Rey round of 32 on Thursday.

The Catalans have communicated on their official website that tests have confirmed the midfielder tore the biceps femoris in his left leg and will now miss the first leg of the Copa del Rey last 16 clash between 3-5 January 2012, as well as the first Liga game of the new year against Espanyol.

Shortly after doubling Barca's lead, Iniesta collided with Hospitalet goalkeeper Carlos Craviotto just before the half-hour mark, which prompted his substitution.

Pep Guardiola's men went on to win the game, courtesy of braces by Thiago Alcantara, Isaac Cuenca and Tello, and a solitary strike by Xavi.

The coach heaped praise on his team's professionalism and serious attitude towards the game.

"We went for the ball, and never let our guard down," said Guardiola after the game, according to Marca.

"I did not want our team to slip up. We wanted to put the triumph in the cup [Club World Cup] behind us. We came from a long flight, and I asked my players to take the game seriously."

Barcelona will now rest during the holiday season before returning to action on January 8 when they play Espanyol in league action.
 

The Premier League title race is in Manchester City's hands, says Gareth Barry

England international believes Roberto Mancini's side must not rest on their laurels and their maintain excellent form as they remain two points clear of rivals Manchester United

Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry believes the race for the Premier League title is in their hands but warned his team-mates they must maintain their recent level of performance.

Roberto Mancini’s side are currently two points clear of rivals Manchester United at the top of the table after 17 games this season, and Barry is delighted with his side's run of form.

He told the club’s official website: "At the moment, things are going really well.

"We have set a fast pace in the Premier League, but we are still only two points clear at the top. That shows us that there are still other good teams around.

"All the time we are top, we know it is in our own hands and we will keep trying to win games."

The England international has played an integral part in City’s excellent start to the season in the central midfield role with Yaya Toure.

Despite the quality within the squad at Mancini’s disposal, the midfielder has started the last five games in succession, and is determined to keep his place in the starting XI.

Barry said: "I feel really good at the moment, really fit.

"It's good to get a good run in the team because the players we have in the squad, it is sometimes hard to get a constant run.

"But when you are playing regularly that obviously helps you. I am really enjoying my football at the moment."

Barcelona's Sandro Rosell: Pep Guardiola's squad is the best team in history

The Catalan club's president has taken the time to praise the successful coach and his team, and expressed his delight with winning the Club World Cup in Japan

Barcelona president Sandro Rosell is delighted with the Catalans' 4-0 Club World Cup final win over Santos on Sunday, and added that coach Pep Guardiola has assembled 'the best team in history'.

A brace from Lionel Messi and further goals by Xavi and Cesc Fabregas helped Barcelona to their third trophy of the season after previously winning the Spanish Supercopa and the European Supercup, and Rosell had nothing but positive words for the team.

"Pep Guardiola’s team is probably the best football team in history. It’s extraordinary how they play, how they pass the ball, how they defend. It’s gorgeous," Rosell was quoted as saying on the club's official website.

"It’s difficult to get to the top, but even more so to stay at the top. This team are doing it. We have to enjoy the moment. The team’s trophy cabinet is starting to match up with the club’s history.

"This season will be good no matter what happens in the remainder of it. If we win more trophies, it’ll be even more excellent."

Barcelona's next match is in the Copa del Rey against L'Hospitalet on December 22.

Doctor hopeful that Barcelona’s David Villa can play for Spain in Euro 2012

The doctor who carried out the operation is pleased with how it went, and reports suggest that the attacker could be back in action in four or five months
Barcelona striker David Villa underwent an operation on his broken left leg on Monday evening, and it has now been suggested that the 30-year-old could be sidelined for as little as four months, meaning he could potentially be available for Euro 2012.

Villa sustained the injury in innocuous circumstances as Pep Guardiola’s side played their Club World Cup semi-final against Al Sadd last week, with initial reports suggesting that he could miss the remainder of the season because of the problem.

Dr. Ramon Cugat, who oversaw the operation, is quoted by AS as saying: “The medical team is very pleased with Villa’s operation.

“We hope that Villa will be able to play in the European Championship.”

Moreover, the surgeon is quietly optimistic that Villa could feature in the Champions League final, should Barca get that far as they attempt to defend their crown.

“He will come very close,” he stated. “I think he will be out for four or five months, but we have to wait to see how it evolves. It can go wrong if I give a date."

It is expected that the striker will leave hospital in three or four days before beginning his recovery process.

Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos sustains hamstring injury

The Spain international is being plagued by physical problems in the aftermath of last weekend's La Liga win and will be out of action for a while

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has received some disappointing news from the treatment room in the aftermath of last Saturday's 6-2 La Liga win over Sevilla after it was revealed that defender Sergio Ramos sustained a hamstring injury in the match.

The 25-year-old featured for the full 90 minutes in the Santiago Bernabeu side's impressive away victory, but complained about pain afterwards.

Ramos underwent a number of tests on Sunday to determine the extent of the injury and a scan has revealed that the Spain international has suffered a pulled hamstring.

It's not yet exactly known how long the versatile defender will be sidelined for, but he is certain to miss Tuesday's Copa del Rey match at home against Ponferradina.

Real Madrid are hopeful that Ramos will be match fit in time for los Blancos' first La Liga game after the winter break against Granada on January 8.
 

Champions League last 16 draw

English duo Chelsea and Arsenal to face Napoli and AC Milan in Champions League last 16
The Blues will be very wary of the Partenopei, who progressed at the expense of Manchester City, while the Gunners will not be looking forward to their trip to San Siro

England's two remaining sides in the Champions League will both face Italian opposition in the last 16, with Chelsea having been drawn against Napoli and Arsenal set to face AC Milan.

Chelsea progressed as winners of Group E but will not be relishing a clash with tournament debutants Napoli, who qualified for the knockout stages by pipping Manchester City to second spot in Group A.

Meanwhile, Arsenal's dubious reward for topping Group F is a tie against reigning Italian champions Milan, who came off second best to Barcelona in Group H.

Speaking of the Catalans, the reigning champions have been paired with Bayer Leverkusen. Barca's great rivals Real Madrid, meanwhile, must make the arduous trip to Russia to face CSKA Moscow.

Elsewhere, Italy's other representative, Inter, must tackle Marseille, while the side the Nerazzurri defeated in the 2010 final, Bayern Munich, take on Basel, who sensationally knocked out Manchester United.

Another surprise package, APOEL Nicosia, have been paired with French side Lyon, while the remaining tie will see Zenit St Petersburg go head to head with Benfica.

Xavi insists Barcelona are 'far superior' to Real Madrid after Clasico victory

The Catalan playmaker feels his side have now proved that they hold a significant advantage over Jose Mourinho's men, before plugging team-mate Lionel Messi for the Ballon d'Or

Xavi has proclaimed that Barcelona are 'far superior' to Real Madrid, following his side's 3-1 triumph over their arch-rivals in the Clasico on Saturday night.

The 31-year-old told La Sexta after the derby encounter that the Spanish champions have successfully overcome a test of their credentials against the Blancos, who he believes are a step in class below his side.

"We were very superior to Real Madrid today," said Xavi. "We wanted to be brave here. We know that you can not win otherwise and the team played a great match in every department. We are far superior to Real Madrid."

Strikes from Alexis Sanchez, Cesc Fabregas and a Marcelo own goal awarded the seventh and final Clasico fixture of 2011 to Barcelona, as well as a crucial three points to put the Blaugrana level with Real Madrid in La Liga, and the World Cup winner offered his analysis of how the match unfolded.

"The issue was not to lose our philosophy," he continued. "[Goalkeeper] Victor Valdes has been very brave in spite of the initial error and was able to recover and play very well.

"I am very happy about everything, for the victory, and the most important thing is that collectively we played a great game and we were very superior."

The 2010 World Cup winner was also quizzed on if he expects to be presented with the Ballon d'Or at the end of the year, but in his mind there was only one worthy winner of the accolade.

"[Me as a Ballon d'Or winner?] No, Lionel Messi, without a doubt," he affirmed.

Barcelona's next match is on December 15, as they now prepare to kick off their Club World Cup campaign in Japan, and the midfielder underlined his side's ambitions of returning home with the trophy.

He concluded: "We leave [for the Club World Cup] with a good taste in our mouths and we leave with the intention of winning the tournament."
 

Messi & Xavi and Ronaldo named as the finalists for 2011 Fifa Ballon d'Or

Barcelona's Lionel Messi & Xavi and Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo named as the finalists for 2011 Fifa Ballon d'Or award
The world football governing body has announced the final three candidates for the prestigious individual award, while the Coach of the Year nominees were also revealed

Fifa Secretary General Jerome Valcke and France Football director Francois Moriniere have announced the final three candidates for the 2011 Fifa Ballon d'Or.

Title holder and Barcelona star Lionel Messi is one of the remaining three players still in the race to win the trophy. The Argentina international previously won the prestigious individual award in 2009 and 2010, and can become the first player since Michel Platini to win the accolade three times in a row.
Real Madrid attacker Cristiano Ronaldo, who won the Ballon d'Or in 2008, is also still in the race to win the trophy for a second time in his career.

The third remaining candidate is Spain international and Barcelona midfielder Xavi, who finished third in both 2009 and 2010.

Messi is also one of the three nominees to win the Puskas Award for Goal of the Year for his strike in the Champions League against Arsenal, while Manchester United's Wayne Rooney (winning goal against Manchester City) and Santos forward Neymar (goal against Flamengo) have also been nominated.

The three candidates for the title of Coach of the Year were also announced at the gathering at France Football's headquarters, with Barcelona's Pep Guardiola, Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson and Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho making the final three.

In the women's section, reigning Ballon d'Or winner and Brazil star Marta, Japan's Homare Sawa and USA veteran Abby Wambach are in contention for the title of Female Player of the Year, while Bruno Bini (France), Norio Sasaki (Japan) and Pia Sundhage (USA) are the candidates for the Coach of the Year title.
 

Bayern Munich's Mario Gomez: No current player stands in comparison with Barcelona's Lionel Messi

The Germany international feels the 2010 Fifa Ballon d'Or winner is well ahead of the competition, but added that he feels honoured to be compared with the Blaugrana ace

Bayern Munich striker Mario Gomez has insisted that he can't be compared to Barcelona forward Lionel Messi as he feels the Argentina international is easily the best player in the world.

Former FCB boss Ottmar Hitzfeld recently stated that Gomez is as important to Bayern as Messi is to Barcelona, and although Gomez feels honoured by the Switzerland coach's comments, he's not getting carried away.

"He's flattering me, of course. No current player stands in comparison with Messi. He’s unique, and comfortably the best player in the world," Gomez was quoted as saying on the official Fifa website.

"I'm aware that Ottmar Hitzfeld isn't just any old commentator, he's a celebrated and successful coach, so I'm certainly proud if that’s what he said. Not as much about being compared to Messi, who’s a completely different type of player, but because of the significance of the statement.

"Personally, I’d never compare myself to him, but I’m aware of my strengths, and I know I have plenty of goals in me, now and in the future."

The 26-year-old Gomez has netted 21 times in as many appearances in all competitions this term.

Fernando Torres: Liverpool fans don't know the truth about my transfer to Chelsea and nobody has understood me like Rafa Benitez

Spain striker expects to be on the receiving end of plenty of abuse when the Reds visit Stamford Bridge on Sunday, but insists he holds no grudges ahead of the 'very special game'

Fernando Torres insists Liverpool fans do not know the full story behind his transfer to Chelsea.

The Spain international is a less-than-popular figure on Merseyside due to his €58 million switch to London in the January transfer window.


Torres was roundly booed during Spain's defeat to England at Wembley last week and he expects it to be in the firing line from the away fans at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, but says that his former club's supporters will always be special to him.

"I've no doubt [the abuse] will be a lot worse," Torres told Marca.

"The Liverpool fans have only paid attention to what the club made them see and they don't know the true story of my transfer to Chelsea.

"That's why I don’t hold any grudges; they will always be special to me."

Torres became a Kop idol for his lethal form during his first three seasons with the club, scoring 56 Premier League goals in just 79 appearances while playing under Rafael Benitez.

But when the Spanish manager was replaced by Roy Hodgson, his form dipped and it has not fully recovered since his move to the capital.

"Nobody has understood me like Rafa Benitez," he said.

"I owe him a lot. He is a fantastic coach. His teams go out on to the pitch with just one aim: to compete.

"The sensation they transmit is that, with less [of a] budget, they can beat the biggest teams."

The 27-year-old will be hoping to show something like his best form when Liverpool visit Stamford Bridge on Sunday, with the player acknowledging the importance of the fixture as Chelsea look to stay in the title race.

Torres' former club have picked up only one win in their last four Premier League matches, but the forward believes that they are heading in the right direction.

"[Liverpool] are a team in transition and the change doesn't come overnight," he said.

"They need time. They have made a significant investment and, like in any project, they need to establish themselves.

"We can't allow ourselves the luxury of losing any more points. It will be a very special game and atmosphere, too, without a doubt."

With only two Premier League goals this season, Torres has not caught fire in a Chelsea shirt yet but dismissed concerns that he was feeling the pressure of his transfer fee and insisted he remains optimistic about his future.

"You place the responsibility on yourself, it's something you can't control," he said.

"Also, how much I cost doesn't depend on me, it's the clubs who decide what they are willing to pay and it is they who come to an agreement.
"I have been lucky enough to experience many wonderful situations over the last 10 years, but I am confident the best is yet to come."
 

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo explains obscene gesture to Bosnia & Herzegovina fans

The Real Madrid forward said he was provoked into using foul behaviour against a set of Bosnia fans who were shouting Lionel Messi's name during a training session

Cristiano Ronaldo has explained the reasons why he reacted with a rude gesture toward hecklers ahead of Portugal's 0-0 Euro 2012 first-leg play-off clash against Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Ronaldo was criticised by fans during a training session before Friday's game.

A group of supporters jeered the forward and continued to shout "Messi, Messi, Messi" before pointing lasers at him.

The Real Madrid striker responded by raising his middle fingers to the fans jeering him.

"Everyone is speaking badly of me, but why don't people criticise the lasers that were being aimed into my eyes," Ronaldo told the press.

"They behaved in that way and so I reacted in my own way ..."

The incidents continued when Portugal played Bosnia, but Ronaldo was less aggressive.

"I tried to keep calm as I knew that I could have been booked if I let the fans get to me," he said.

Portugal play the second leg on Tuesday night in Lisbon with the aggregate score finely balanced.
 

Messi: I score for Barcelona, not for glory

The Argentine has made it clear that it is not his main intention to become the Catalans' all-time leading goalscorer, but that it could well be a by-product of working as hard as possible for the clubLionel Messi: I want to score goals to help Barcelona, not to enter the record books
The Argentine attacker has stated that he does not care about personal glory and just wants to do as well as possible for the Catalan giants

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi has made it clear that becoming the club's all-time leading goalscorer is not a specific objective for him - as he just wants to do as well as possible for the Champions League holders.

The Argentina international leapfrogged Ladislao Kubala earlier this season to climb into second place on the list. Only Cesar Rodriguez, with 235 goals, has scored more than Messi.

Nevertheless, the 24-year-old insists that making the record books is not as important as winning trophies.

"I want to break Rodriguez's record, but only because I want to score as many goals as possible for Barcelona. It's good for the team when I score and I want to win trophies. I don't care about entering the record books," Messi told Het Nieuwsblad.

"I don't necessarily want to break the record this season. If it happens, I'm fine with it, but I won't lose any sleep over it if I don't break the record."

Messi has scored 203 goals for Barcelona.

Sir Alex Ferguson says his 25 years at Manchester United have been a 'fairy tale'

Scot reflects on reign at Old Trafford as anniversary approaches this weekend, and he admits he is privileged to have managed some of the club's all-time greats. Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted his 25 years in charge of Manchester United have been a "fairy tale" and he hopes to continue managing the Red Devils for a good while yet.

The Scot took charge at Old Trafford in 1986 and will celebrate his anniversary on Saturday in United’s clash with Sunderland. In his time at the club he has won 12 Premier League titles, five FA cups and two Champions League trophies.

He told reporters: "It's been a fairy tale and I will continue as long as I feel healthy enough to do it.

“It has been a really fantastic spell for me.

"I've been fortunate to have had some of the best players in the game.

"Players like Bryan Robson, Norman Whiteside, through to Mark Hughes, Roy Keane and Eric Cantona.

"It's hard to think I had control of those great players for so long, right through to today's foreign players."

Sir Alex is fully focused on the game against the Black Cats but will head to the game without striker Michael Owen, who was injured in the win over Otelul Galati on Wednesday.

He added: "Michael injured his thigh when he made the run across the front post for the first goal.

"It's a killer for him. He started the season well, he's been training terrifically. His two performances in the League Cup have been great.

“He made the goal last night, no doubt about that. I hope he's not out for too long. We've assessed him this morning, he's had a scan but we don't have any results from that yet."
 

AC Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic: Barcelona's Pep Guardiola was scared of Jose Mourinho, & Iniesta, Xavi and Messi were like schoolboys

The Sweden international has revealed that he had a furious row with the Catalan side's head coach, while also admitting he did not connect with their star players

AC Milan attacker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has revealed that he completely lost control in the aftermath of Barcelona's 4-1 away win over Villarreal in the 2009-10 campaign as he slammed head coach Pep Guardiola for his 'lack of balls' in their Champions League elimination by Inter only days before.

Swedish publication Aftonbladet reports that the striker reveals in his autobiography, which will be published in two weeks' time, how he told Guardiola that he was afraid of then-Inter coach Jose Mourinho and that the Barcelona coach could "go to hell".

"I yelled to him: 'You have no balls!' And probably worse things than that. And I added: 'You are sh***ing yourself about Mourinho! You can go to hell!' I was completely mad. If I were Guardiola, I would have been frightened," Ibrahimovic writes in the first chapter of his book.

The former Ajax star also took the time to reveal his true feelings for Barcelona trio Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta and Xavi.

"The atmosphere in the dressing room was way too quiet for me. Messi, Iniesta and Xavi always obeyed without protesting. They were like schoolboys. I'm not like that and I couldn't be myself."

Ibrahimovic also explained that Messi is Guardiola's favourite, while also stating that the coach made little attempt to communicate with him.

"Messi asked to be played in another position. He wanted to play as centre forward and got his way. I didn't have a relationship with the coach. He hardly looked at me."

The 30-year-old attacker left Barcelona for AC Milan in the summer of 2010 after only one year at Camp Nou.
 

Barcelona's Lionel Messi: It was crazy for people to say I was in a crisis for not scoring in three games

The Argentine attacker played down the end to his goal-drought of three games, instead choosing to praise his team-mates after their victory against Mallorca.

Barcelona's hat-trick hero Lionel Messi praised his team-mates after their 5-0 annihilation of Mallorca on Saturday, and also claimed he was not in crisis for going three games without a goal.

The Argentine grabbed a hat-trick within the first half-hour before Isaac Cuenca and Dani Alves completed the rout against Joaquin Caparros' side at Camp Nou.

Messi is now on 199 goals for the Catalan giants, 36 goals behind Cesar Rodriguez - the side's record goalscorer - but the forward is more focused on team accolades.

"The team played well again,” he told Gol TV after the game. “We got quick goals and in the first half, the result was nearly confirmed. We have to continue this way.

"It's crazy to say that after three games [without a goal] I was in crisis. I do not care whether I score or not, what matters is that the team win and continue to do so.

The 24-year-old was also questioned about his goal celebration after his third goal, where he held up three fingers, one-by-one.

However, Messi denied it had anything to do with going three games without scoring, saying that it was a personal tribute to a friend.

"I have a friend from home who told me to do that,” he explained. “The number 123 has a special meaning for him.”

The attacker will now travel with his team-mates in midweek to the Czech Republic where they will face Viktoria Plzen in the Champions League.

It would not surprise me if Barcelona's Xavi becomes a coach when he retires, says Miguel Angel Nadal

The former Spain international has revealed that he expects the Catalans' midfield maestro to stay in the game after he hangs up his boots!

It would not surprise me if Barcelona's Xavi becomes a coach when he retires, says Miguel Angel Nadal
The former Spain international has revealed that he expects the Catalans' midfield maestro to stay in the game after he hangs up his boots

Former Barcelona defender Miguel Angel Nadal has stated that it would not surprise him if playmaker Xavi were to become the Catalans' head coach in the future.

The influential midfielder turns 32 in January 2012 and is slowly nearing the end of his playing career.


But Nadal does not expect the Barcelona star to leave the game once he hangs up his boots.

"Whether I can see Xavi following the same career path as Pep Guardiola? Well, obviously you never know what will happen in the future," Nadal was quoted as saying by Sport.

"It would not really surprise me if Xavi became a coach in the future though. He really loves football, and I don't think he'll leave the football world after his retirement.

"It all depends on what he wants to do, but he surely has the football philosophy to become a success on the bench."

Xavi's current contract at Camp Nou runs until the summer of 2014.

Jorge Valdano: Real Madrid are not dependent on Cristiano Ronaldo

The club's former sporting director has insisted that there is more to the team than the Portugal international, and added that they have made significant progress this term

Former Real Madrid sporting director Jorge Valdano has taken the time to praise Cristiano Ronaldo, but added that Los Blancos are not dependent on the attacker.

The Portuguese has become the Santiago Bernabeu side's undisputed star player since joining in the summer of 2009, but Valdano feels the Spanish giants are still an excellent side without him.

"Ronaldo is capable of scoring two or three goals per game after moments of individual brilliance," Valdano was quoted as saying by Marca.

"However, the best thing about this Madrid is that they are still a great team if Ronaldo is not at his best.

"Their style of play is much more direct than Barcelona's. They don't give defences any time to regroup, and need only three passes to reach the opponents' goal. They have made a lot of progress since last season."

Real Madrid currently sit second in La Liga, having taken 22 points from nine encounters. They lock horns with Real Sociedad on Saturday evening.

Dani Alves is unconcerned about Real Madrid

Barcelona defender Dani Alves has stressed that he is unconcerned by the fact hisside have fallen behind Real Madrid in the league table following last weekend's results - as he feels there is plenty of time to bounce back.

Barcelona defender Dani Alves has stressed that he is unconcerned by the fact his side have fallen behind Real Madrid in the league table following last weekend's results - as he feels there is plenty of time to bounce back.

The Catalans were held to a scoreless draw by Sevilla on Saturday, while Madrid recorded a comfortable 4-0 victory over Malaga.

"That’s just a sideshow at this point. They are ahead of us, and of course they will be happy about that," Alves was quoted as saying on the Barcelona website.

"We are behind them now, but there is a long way to go yet and I’m sure that many things will happen."

The Brazil international then stressed that Saturday's draw will not affect Barcelona's form going forward.

"Everything is hard and complicated, but there is no way that this will make us doubt ourselves. We are a great team – win, lose or draw. We have shown that over the years and one result won’t change that."

Barcelona currently sit third in the league table with 18 points from eight games. They trail table toppers Levante by two points and Real Madrid, who are second, by one point.
 

Inter's Javier Zanetti: We are capable of doing great things

The Argentine was pleased with his team's victory over Chievo on Sunday, and feels the Giuseppe Meazza side will still be a force to be reckoned with this season

Inter captain Javier Zanetti has voiced his opinion that the Coppa Italia holders can still achieve great things this season in the wake of their 1-0 Serie A win at home to Chievo on Sunday afternoon.

Claudio Ranieri's men have been struggling to find their best form in the opening months of the 2011-12 campaign, but are slowly getting their confidence back after wins over Lille in the Champions League and against the Verona-based side at the weekend.

"This a group that is capable of doing great things, and we think this every game. We're working on our solidity, and we must prevent the opposing teams from doing damage to us," Zanetti told Sky Sport Italia.

"The victory was important in not letting the standings weigh on us too heavily. Inter deservedly won, although we had to suffer until the end against a Chievo team that attacked.

"We still hadn't been able to win at Giuseppe Meazza, so this match was also important in that regard."

Inter have climbed to 16th spot in the Serie A table following the weekend's results. They have collected seven points from as many games.
 

Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho sells newspapers but we do our talking on the pitch, says Barcelona's Dani Alves

The Brazil international played down the Portuguese's provocation with regard to the strength of the Blaugrana's Champions League opponents and claims he expects nothing different

Barcelona full-back Dani Alves says he expected comments from Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho over the Catalans' Champions League opponents in Group H because the Portuguese always likes to be in the spotlight.

On Monday, Mourinho said he had to look on the Internet to learn about the teams Barcelona were playing in Europe - a suggestion Pep Guardiola's men were up against the continental competition's weaker and lesser-known sides.

He was referring to Czech opponents Viktoria Plzen, who Barcelona beat 2-0 at Camp Nou on Wednesday night, and BATE Borisov, who lost 5-0 to Guardiola's side earlier in the competition.

However, Alves claims he and his team-mates have come to expect such comments from Mourinho.

"We know what he is like. He is always trying to take merit away from others," he told Spanish media, as reported by Goal.com Spain.

"We will just get on with our work and don't want to get involved with any of that. We're inferior in that respect and we like to do our talking where we do it best - on the pitch."

And he added: "Journalists love it because it sells a lot of newspapers, but we are focused on performing on the pitch."

Barcelona's win on Wednesday, courtesy of goals from Andres Iniesta and David Villa, helped them stay top of Group H alongside AC Milan.

The Spanish and European champions are in action next when they play Sevilla on Saturday in La Liga.
 

Pele: I will send my documentary film to Lionel Messi

The Santos great has pledged to send the Argentina captain a video about himself and commented on the state of the Brazil national team

Retired Brazil and Santos striker Pele has vowed to send Lionel Messi a 2004 documentary of his career.

Recently, the Barcelona forward admitted he had never seen Pele play. While visiting the victims of the March earthquakes in Japan, the Brazil legend took time to comment on sporting matters and said that he would show Messi an account of his career.

"It is a normal thing when a player is compared [to a player from another time period], sometimes he is not interested in the comparison," Pele told Globoesporte.

"If he really did not see me, I'll do what I once did with [Diego] Maradona: I'll send him the video 'Pele Eterno' and then he will."

Pele also praised his native Brazil for having depth in talent.

"Brazil have great players, it just takes time to bring the team together because we can make five world class teams."

Mano Menezes' Brazil recently beat Mexico in a friendly match and have won four of their last five fixtures.

Messi inspires Barcelona to easy victory

Barcelona 3-0 Racing Santander: Messi imperious once again as the champions return to Primera Division summit
Lionel Messi scores two and Xavi grabs a rare header as the Catalan club secure a routine win over Hector Cuper's side
A Lionel Messi brace and a Xavi header were enough to give Barcelona a much deserved 3-0 victory over a lacklustre Racing Santander at Camp Nou on Saturday evening.

Pep Guardiola's side were in charge of the game from the kick-off, and their possession paid off in the 11th minute when Andres Iniesta picked up the ball just inside the Racing box on the right-hand side and reversed a pass into Messi, who, with six defenders around him, flicked the ball out of trouble and dragged it past Tono before finishing from a tight angle.

Barcelona grabbed their second goal of the match just before the half hour mark, and it was far too simple for the hosts from a Racing point of view. Pedro picked up the ball on the left hand-side and clipped a lovely cross to the edge of the six yard box for Xavi who ghosted in unmarked to guide a header into the bottom right corner.

It should have been three for Barcelona 10 minutes before the break when Xavi found space on the right hand-side of the Racing box and slipped a pass through to Pedro, who got to the byline and crossed along the goal for Carles Puyol, but the Barcelona captain somehow scuffed his shot from a yard out, allowing Tono in the Racing goal to gather.

Barca took the game beyond Racing in the 68th minute when Andres Iniesta showed incredible skill in the box to neatly juggle the ball over two challenges before rifling a left-footed half volley off the right-hand post before Messi smashed in the rebound for his second goal of the match.

In front of a vibrant Camp Nou crowd, the hosts dominated the match for most of the 90 minutes, and should have added to their lead on numerous occasions.

David Villa should have done better in the 82nd minute when he found some room just inside the Racing box to the right but ended up blazing the ball over the bar. Eric Abidal also came close soon afterwards when he attempted a spectacular overhead kick from eight yards out but Tono managed to make the save.

This result shoots Barcelona straight back to the top of La Liga on 17 points, whereas Racing find themselves still on four points and languishing in the relegation zone.

 

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque: Chelsea's Fernando Torres doesn't have any privileges

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque has made it clear that Chelsea attacker Fernando Torres will have to earn his place in the squad for Euro 2012 with good performances at club level.

The national team boss insists the former Liverpool star will have to perform at club level if he is to make the squad for Euro 2012
The striker netted the winner in Spain's 1-0 win over Germany in the final of the 2008 European Championships, but has been struggling to find his best form at club level since leaving Liverpool for Chelsea in January 2011.

And Del Bosque has now insisted that his selection for next year's tournament will be based on actual performances rather than on achievements from the past.

"There will not be any privileges for anyone. There is a lot of competition for places and we have to be fair," Del Bosque said at a press conference ahead of Tuesday's Group I qualifier at home to Scotland.

"Fernando Torres has a great history with the national side, but he also has a role to play right now. He's in the squad because of his performances at club level.

"We will see how things stand ahead of Euro 2012."

Torres was part of the starting XI in Spain's 2-0 win over Czech Republic last Friday, but failed to find the net and was taken off after an hour.
 

Fabio Capello insists England will play to beat Montenegro in Euro 2012 qualifier

Three Lions boss vows to take an attacking stance against closest Group G rivals and has five strikers to call upon alongside the attacking threat of Lampard, Young and Walcott

Fabio Capello has insisted England will be playing to beat Montenegro in their upcoming Euro 2012 qualifier.

The Three Lions only need a point to qualify for the tournament in Poland and Ukraine, but Capello wants to take no chances.

The Italian said: "We are going to win this game, not [play] for the draw.

"If you play for a draw it is a big mistake. You are not focused on the game. You are playing to defend the result.

"When you do that you make some silly mistakes. You need to play the same style as all the other away games."

Capello has included regular strikers Wayne Rooney, Darren Bent and Andy Carroll in his squad alongside young Danny Welbeck and recalled Bobby Zamora.

Ashley Young, Theo Walcott and Frank Lampard are all expected to feature in Podgorica to give Capello's side an attacking look.

Kyle Walker is another potential threat and could start at right-back following a scintillating performance in the north London derby that included a stunning 25-yard goal.

Barcelona's Xavi: Real Madrid focus on individuals while we are all about the team

The 31-year-old says the Copa del Rey winners play in a completely different way from his team as they put individuals before the group

Barcelona midfielder Xavi has rejected suggestions that Real Madrid have effectively been able to emulate his side's playing style.

The Spanish capital club have been working hard to put an end to Barcelona's hegemony in the country, which has seen them win the last three Liga crowns.

This season's two-legged Supercopa between Madrid and Barca was a tight affair, which has prompted suggestions the Bernabeu outfit are closing the gap on their Catalan rivals.

However, Xavi claims that both teams are still at opposing ends when it comes to their playing strategy.

"The biggest difference is the emphasis on individuals," he told Der Tagesspiegel. "That makes them currently the opposite of the way we play in Barcelona.

"You see, we have great individuals like Lionel Messi, who can single-handedly turn a game around, but we are still a lot more about our unity and our collectivism.

"Madrid, however, try to win games with individual class. For us, it is about the collective."

The 31-year-old admitted that Madrid tried to copy his side's method, but noted they crossed the line in the process.

"In Madrid's case, it is not merely that they wanted to copy us," Xavi added. "They attacked us early, because they have done so for four or five years, whether under Manuel Pellegrini or Jose Mourinho.

"Real Madrid players are extremely talented individuals and can turn the game in their favour."

Xavi reckoned that he is looking to continue working in football after hanging up his boots, but refused to say whether he is considering embarking on a coaching career.

"I am enjoying football more than anything else in life and I also love to live in Barcelona and be a part of this group," the midfielder affirmed.

"I love football and I like the idea of continuing to be part of the game, even if I will no longer be able to play at the highest level.

"I have no idea whether I will get a job in football when I retire. A lot of people want to work in football and only few are lucky enough to be able to do so. But of course, I would like to remain in football in one way or another."

The players worked as hard as they did against Sociedad, Milan & Valencia - Barcelona's Pep Guardiola

The 40-year-old tactician congratulated his team and told reporters that the side had put in the same effort as they did in the games they had failed to win this season.

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola let his players take the praise after their 5-0 demolition of Atletico Madrid on Saturday evening at Camp Nou, while stating that his team had not worked any harder than they did when claiming recent draws against Real Sociedad, Milan and Valencia.

A superb Lionel Messi hat-trick, an own-goal from Miranda and David Villa's strike gave the Catalan outfit a resounding win following the midweek 2-2 draw at the Mestalla.

The victory maintains the side's 100 per cent record at home in La Liga this season and Guardiola was keen to step away from the plaudits.

"The credit goes entirely to the players. They worked as hard as they did in the Anoeta Stadium, Milan and the Mestalla. Today we were better than Atletico Madrid," Guardiola told reporters after the game.

Guardiola was also keen to state that his side's dominance was helped by their ability to keep Radamel Falcao quiet, who has scored five goals in Liga so far this season.

"We tried to remove the ball from the danger area as much as possible because Falcao does not make mistakes in those kind of situations," he added.

The 40-year-old tactician also stated that he was "satisfied" to keep a clean sheet after leaking two goals midweek against Unai Emery's men.

Barcelona now travel to Belarus for their Champions League encounter against BATE Borisov with the two sides due to meet on Wednesday evening.

'Sami Khedira & the referee are responsible for the defeat to Levante' - Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho

The Portuguese coach lambasted his opposition's underhand tactics and stated he believes the German midfielder should have known better rather than to be sent off

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho blamed Sami Khedira and match official Javier Turienzo Alvarez for his side's 1-0 defeat at Levante.

A second-half goal from Arouna Kone was enough for the hosts to sink Madrid, who were reduced to 10 men during the course of the first half following Khedira's second bookable offence.

The Bernabeu outfit claim the referee failed to signal a penalty in the 62nd minute after Vicente Iborra had handled the ball inside the area, an offence which would have earned the midfielder his second yellow of the game.

After the game, Mourinho criticised the work of the referee, while ironically saying Levante deserved to win the game because of their underhand tactics.

"There was a clear penalty, which would have given Iborra his second yellow card, and that had a clear impact on the result" he told reporters at a post-match press conference.

"If we had scored from the spot and been 10 versus 10, the story of the game would have been different.

"But we do not have to take credit away from Levante and from what they know they can do at home. I have to congratulate them for this.

"They know how to provoke, to simulate, to waste time and not give the ball. This is also football and our players do not like these things. No one does it better than Levante in this league."

The Portuguese tactician said Khedira was partially accountable for the negative result, but noted that the German midfielder only fell victim to Levante's antics.

"There are players on our team who cannot get used to the dirty part of football, who are not comfortable with it," Mourinho said.

"One of my players [Khedira] was at fault because he knew what was going to happen. He fell into the trap.

"I hold him partially responsible for the defeat, but the referee is also to blame. Not signalling a penalty nor sending a player off is a lot."

Mourinho conceded his team were largely superior before Khedira was shown red and lamented they could not score during that period.

"While both teams had 11 players on the pitch, we played well and our opponent did not enter our midfield," he explained.

"We had chances on goal, two of them in which there was no goalkeeper and another one with an easy shot from four meters out, and we could not score."

Arsenal can no longer challenge for trophies - Barcelona's Cesc Fabregas

Spaniard reveals he left the Emirates to challenge in major competitions as he thinks the Gunners no longer possess the quality required to aim for titles in England.

Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas has revealed he left Arsenal this summer because he wanted to win major trophies and feels he couldn’t whilst playing with the Gunners.
The Spaniard finally completed a €29 million move to Barcelona following years of speculation surrounding his return to the Catalan club.

He believes the Emirates outfit will no longer be able to compete with the big clubs in England as he thinks the difference in quality between them is too great.

He told Sport magazine: "I want to be in a club that is able to win the big titles year after year and I don't see that kind of future for Arsenal.

"I still have many feelings for Arsenal, but I fear that they won't be able to push the other big clubs in England away.

"If you look at the team this season I can't see them finishing in front of teams like Manchester United or [Manchester] City, or Chelsea. There's just too big a difference between the squads.

"I respect that Arsenal don't have the same financial opportunities as the others, but it was part of my decision to leave that I find it hard to see Arsenal winning the Premier League or Champions League in the near future."

Fabregas added: "I hope they will replace me and the others that have left with some quality players and maybe they can take Arsenal back to their level as champions."

AC Milan hit by Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Robinho injuries ahead of Barcelona clash

The two forwards look set to miss the high-profile Champions League clash due to knocks picked up in training

AC Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is out of his big Champions League return to Barcelona after picking up an injury in training on Monday, the club have confirmed.

The 29-year-old suffered an adductor injury during the final practice session before the squad was set to head out for Spain and was left behind as his team-mates boarded their afternoon flight.

Club CEO Adrian Galliani was not overly upset by the news though, telling reporters: "I'm not crying about it. It's not a knockout game, there will be others. [Alexandre] Pato and [Antonio] Cassano, two champions, will play."

The club website also confirmed that Milan will give Ibrahimovic a few days to recover before he returns to full training.

And the Swede may not be the only absentee for the Serie A champions as Robinho didn't make the final squad for tomorrow's clash at Camp Nou after reportedly picking up a muscle problem in training.

The two injuries will act as a serious setback to coach Massimiliano Allegri's hopes of gaining something from the trip to face the European champions, with Pato and Cassano now likely to start up front.

However, the Italian side have received some good news with the returns of Gianluca Zambrotta, Clarence Seedorf and Taye Taiwo.

Manchester City's Carlos Tevez reveals 'personal crisis' with weight and depression this summer

Argentine says he checked into a clinic and his problems undermined his fitness for Copa America, but refuses to accept responsibility for the national team’s failure

Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez has revealed he battled depression and problems with his weight this summer as well as speculation over his future.

Tevez had sought to leave the FA Cup winners after claiming that he needed to be closer to his family in Argentina, but saw a move to Brazilian club Corinthians collapse while no other clubs came close to meeting City's asking price.


The forward is now set to stay with City until at least January, and the Argentine is adamant he has been unfairly misrepresented by the media in the light of his personal struggles.

"I'm not the s*** that they say I am. I had a personal crisis this summer," he told the People.

"I put on five or six kilos and had to check myself into a clinic. I was depressed and so I ate and ate. Only my family and my friends know this."

Tevez also failed to impress as Argentina limped out of this summer’s Copa America on home soil, missing the decisive penalty in his country’s shootout defeat to eventual champions Uruguay.

Coach Sergio Batista was dismissed as a result of the team’s failure, but Tevez insists he does not feel responsible for his manager’s fate.

"People can criticise me if I don't play well, but they can't say 'he missed a penalty so the coach would be sacked," he added.

"It's the bad feeling towards me that I can't stand."

Diego Forlan confirms departure from Atletico Madrid to Inter

Uruguay international has waved goodbye to the Madrid-based outfit as he prepares for Serie A move, and praised Inter president Massimo Moratti for making the move possible

The 32-year-old Uruguay striker held a press conference in Madrid to state he would no longer be playing at the Vincente Calderon, as a switch to San Siro awaits him.

Forlan will now travel to Milan where he will undergo a medical before signing a contract with the Serie A outfit.

"I am going to a great club and there is a big challenge ahead of me. I want to thank Massimo Moratti for this chance," he told the press as he announced his departure from Spain.

"I have already spoken with Esteban Cambiasso and Diego Milito, they are my friends. I know Serie A having watched many games on television and I am very happy to be playing in Italy after my time in the Premier League, and Liga.

"I am going to play for a great team. I liked the project as well as their will to have me. I have a great will to start and changing [teams] will give me new motivation. It's not always that you get the chance to play for a great club at 32, and so for this reason I want to thank Inter and president Moratti."

Forlan played for Atletico since 2007 when he joined them from Villarreal and he will always carry the Spanish side in his heart following their separation.

"I will always support Atletico Madrid and it was an honour to play here," he added.

"I enjoyed four great years, fantastic years and I want to wish the team all the best."

Neither club have confirmed the details of the transfer, but an official announcement is expected to follow later once Forlan arrives in Italy to finalise his move.

Manchester City complete signing of Arsenal's Samir Nasri on four-year deal

After a full summer of pursuing the midfielder, Roberto Mancini has finally got his man as the French midfielder signs a deal that ties him to the Etihad stadium side until 2015

The Blues have finally captured the Frenchman - who only had a year left on his contract - after a long summer pursuit of the 24-year-old and he completed his medical on Tuesday missing Arsenal's Champions League qualifier against Udinese.

Wenger had earlier revealed that Nasri would not be leaving the Emirates this transfer window but the playmaker became unsettled after hearing interest from Roberto Mancini’s side and a reported £180,000 a week wages.

It now means the Gunners have lost two massive names in as many weeks following the departure of Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona and after a fairly average start to the season the pressure is mounting on Wenger to bring in quality players to match the quality that has left.

Lille’s Eden Hazard has been linked with the Gunners recently but they will be unlikely to sell one of their most coveted stars unless a big offer comes in.

For Manchester City, Nasri becomes their fifth summer signing and joins Argentinean ace Sergio Aguero and former team mate Gael Clichy at Eastlands.

Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho is 'destroying Spanish football' - Barcelona's Gerard Pique

The defender hit out at the Portuguese, who was seen to poke Barca assistant boss Tito Vilanova in the eye following the sides' bitter Supercopa clash at Camp Nou. Barca won an entertaining match 3-2 thanks to Lionel Messi's late winner, his second goal of the night after also laying on the first Barca strike for team-mate Andres Iniesta.

Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo had responded for Madrid, but it was another Portuguese, Mourinho, who will make the headlines after he poked Barca assistant coach Tito Vilanova in the eye following a brawl at the end of the match.

"I hope the brawl isn't what is talked about - it's a shame," Pique told reporters after the match. "It's not the first time it has happened and it's always the same players.

"Someone has to take action here - Mourinho is destroying Spanish football. They talk a lot about the Catalans, but the problem is in Madrid."

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola was also left frustrated by Mourinho's antics, and Pique believes the Portuguese has gone too far.

"I think he is crossing the line and the limit, and he needs to be stopped," he said. "We can't end up like this every time. If we do, things will get worse.

Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique welcome Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona as Arsenal captain is set to sign up

The Spain defenders have virtually announced the transfer on Twitter. "Welcome home", the Barca captain wrote, after his team-mate had tweeted: "We have him here now!"

Barcelona defenders Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique have welcomed their friend and international team-mate Cesc Fabregas to the Catalan club as the European champions prepare to announce the signing of the Arsenal captain.

Pique had earlier claimed on Twitter that "today will be a great day" and those sentiments were echoed by goalkeeper Victor Valdes, who announced the deal could be done "in a matter of hours".

Club captain Puyol also expressed his optimism on the social networking site, before Pique all but confirmed the deal as he tweeted: "We now have him here".

Puyol then showed his delight at the prospective move as he wrote: "Welcome home!!! Happy to have you here @cesc4official"

Milan win Supercoppa Italiana!

The Italian champions came from behind to beat Inter 2-1 in Beijing as second-half goals from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Kevin-Prince Boateng cancelled out Wesley Sneijder’s opener

AC Milan beat Inter 2-1 in the Supercoppa Italiana final in an enthralling encounter which saw the Rossoneri come from a goal down to claim the trophy.

Wesley Sneijder's free-kick gave Gian Piero Gasperini’s men an early advantage. However strikes from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Kevin-Prince Boateng completed the comeback as the Serie A champions won the first silverware of the 2011-12 season.
The match opened in frantic fashion as seconds after Sneijder's ambitious effort flew wide, Milan counter-attacked and almost took the lead. Ibrahimovic’s exquisite touch was met by Robinho but the Brazilian forward wasted a glorious chance by curling it past Julio Cesar’s post.
 

Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo hints at future Premier League

Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo hints at future Premier League return
The Portugal international has fuelled rumours that he could return to England at a later stage of his career and added that Madrid are keen to win the Supercopa

Reports that Manchester City had made a big money offer for Ronaldo earlier this summer were quickly dismissed, but the Citizens will be pleased to hear that the former Manchester United star is tempted by the prospect of returning to England at a later stage in his career.

"Whether there is a chance that I will return to the Premier League one day? Possibly, you never know what will happen," Ronaldo was quoted as saying in a press conference.

The 26-year-old then went on to discuss the upcoming Supercopa tie with Barcelona and stated that the Santiago Bernabeu side are eager to beat their rivals.

"It's always important to win, so we also want to win the Supercopa. We are focusing on our training camp in China now, but we'll make sure we are ready when Barcelona await."

The first leg of the Supercopa takes place at the Santiago Bernabeu on August 14, with the return being played at Camp Nou four days later.
 

Cesc Fabregas is not an AC Milan target and I think he'll stay with Arsenal - Adriano Galliani

The San Siro side's CEO has made it clear that the Spain international will not move to Italy as he expects the midfielder to stay at his current club

Fabregas is continually being linked with a move to the Camp Nou giants, while recent reports linked Milan with a move for the playmaker, however, Galliani thinks the 24-year-old will stay at the Emirates.

"Fabregas costs an astronomical amount of money and is not one of our objectives at the moment. He will stay at Arsenal rather than move to Barcelona as far as I know," Galliani was quoted as saying by La Gazzetta dello Sport.

The supremo discussed Milan's summer transfer targets, and also ruled out a move for Bayern Munich's Bastian Schweinsteiger.

"Schweinsteiger? No, he's a key player at Bayern and is not a transfer target for us. There has been enough talk of 'Mister X' [Milan's alleged transfer target]. If we make a big signing, it will happen late in August."

Milan have so far already secured the services of players such as Taye Taiwo, Philippe Mexes and Stephan El Shaarawy and are widely expected to make a move for another midfielder later this summer.

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini claims Sergio Aguero bid depends on Carlos Tevez's future

The Italian manager has revealed the Eastlands club are only set to make a move for the forward if they strike a deal for his fellow countryman to join Corinthians

Roberto Mancini has revealed that a move for Atletico Madrid's Sergio Aguero will depend on whether Corinthians and Manchester City can strike a deal for captain Carlos Tevez.

The Italian, speaking after the club's 2-1 friendly win over the Vancouver Whitecaps, revealed that talks are ongoing between Tevez and the Brazilian side, and hinted that City will move for Aguero in the next few days.

When asked about making a move for the Atletico striker, Mancini told reporters: “At the moment I don’t know. Maybe in the next days. I didn’t speak with Garry [Cook] and with the chairman, I don’t know what’s happened. Yes, I think so [a bid depends on Tevez].”

The City boss added that he is unsure how close Corinthians are to completing a deal for his star striker.

He said: “I don’t know because I slept tonight and this morning we had a game, but I think they continue to talk about the deal. No, I haven’t spoke to him because I have only one number and it doesn’t work at the moment. I don’t know [the chances of the deal being completed].”

Meanwhile, Mancini has confirmed that the injury picked up by Yaya Toure in City's win over the Vancouver Whitecaps, who led at half-time in the pre-season friendly, is not as serious as first feared.

"I think he'll be out only three or four days," he said. "I don't think it's too serious."

He added: "In the first half, I think the Whitecaps played better than us."
 

Didier Drogba: I will stay at Chelsea & battle with Fernando Torres for a starting place

The Ivorian reveals his intent to fight for striker's position at the Blues with his Spaniard counterpart and tells supporters he wants to finish his career at Stamford Bridge

The Ivorian has been linked with a move to Galatasaray after losing his place to the Spaniard last season, but has insisted he will stay and fight for his spot in the line-up.

“I will definitely be here next season," he said, according to the Telegraph.

“We have started talking [about a new contract] and it’s very interesting.

“Everybody knows what I feel about Chelsea and what I want. I said a few years ago that I will be here until the end of my contract and I am here. I want to finish my career at Chelsea."

New Blues manager Andre Villas-Boas has already said his approach doesn’t favour two strikers playing up front, but Drogba claimed he will not back down.

When asked if he was in competition with Torres, the 33-year-old said: “Yes, I think so. That’s the manager’s choice but it’s been like this for me for all my years before here.

“I’m 33, I’m the oldest player and it feels strange but I’m not worried. If I deserve to play then I will play. If I’m not good then I won’t [play].

“There’s always competition in the team but you can’t be the only striker. Even two years ago, there was still competition because I still had to perform.

“It was the same when Eidur Gudjohnsen, when Sheva [Andrei Shevchenko] was here and all of the other times. It’s nothing new and it’s good for the team to have some competition. It will push the team forward and get the best out of us.

“For me, it’s not a problem,” he added. “It’s not a problem to play with him or without him. The most important thing is winning games together as a team.

“I know what I did before and I’m proud of it. The most exciting challenge is what is coming now.

“Daniel [Sturridge] could have played before and Salomon [Kalou]. When I’m on the pitch, competition or not, I need to perform.”

'I will not return to Atletico Madrid' - Sergio Aguero determined to move on after Copa America

The Argentine striker has rejected the possibility of staying on at the Vicente Calderon as he looks for a new challenge

Argentina international Sergio Aguero has excluded the possibility of returning to Atletico Madrid for the new season.

The gifted forward stated earlier in the summer that he planned on furthering his career elsewhere after spending the last five years at Atletico.

Real Madrid and Juventus have both been credited with an interest ithe player , but neither side seem willing to meet the player's €45 million release clause.

And Aguero, who is currently away on international duty with the Argentina national team, has declared he will not wear Atletico's shirt again when he comes back from Copa America.

"I spoke with the club and issued a statement, now my representatives are negotiating my exit from the club," he told ESPN. "I do not know when the deal will come but I want to know all about it when Copa America is over.

"I will not return to Atletico, that is clear. I need a breath of fresh air."

Aguero is currently leading the scoring charts at Copa America with three goals, having scored twice in Argentina's 3-0 victory over Costa Rica on Monday.

Leonardo: I never betrayed Inter as Paris Saint-Germain talks started after Gian Piero Gasperini's appointment

The Brazilian explained the developments regarding his possible move to the French club, and it appears he was given the green light to hold talks with them by his former bosses

Leonardo has said he was always loyal to Inter, and insists talks with Paris Saint-Germain over a director's role were only sparked after the Italian side appointed a new coach.

"PSG contacted me a number of times, but I never betrayed Inter. I never held talks with the Paris-based club until three days ago," Leonardo told the Italian press.

The Brazilian rescinded his contract with the world champions after consulting president Massimo Moratti over any possible opportunities with the French club.

"Until [Gian Piero] Gasperini's announcement I was Inter coach," Leonardo said.

"When I received an invite from PSG I spoke with Moratti and he was like a father to me. Moratti gave me the option to choose freely."

On developments with the Ligue 1 side, Leonardo said the situation was still open as talks are set to continue following initial contact last month.

"I spoke with Massimo Moratti and he let me go to Doha to talk with them [Paris Saint-Germain] on June 11," he said.

"They explained the project and asked me to join them, but I said that it would be very difficult leave Inter.

"I spoke about this project to Moratti and he understood that it could be a great chance for me.

"He was like a father for me. I was at Inter's disposal until they appointed Gasperini."

Leonardo insists he would have remained with the Italian side, but claimed media reports and speculation had been a factor in Inter's appointment of Gasperini.

"I said to Moratti that I wanted to stay at Inter," the former AC Milan star said.

"But it was impossible for the situation that was created by media and rumours.

"Now I'm free and I can do whatever I want.

"There is this oppportunity with PSG, I spoke with their owners two days ago but I don't know what will happen."
 

Real Madrid & Jose Mourinho crossed the line last season Barcelona's Andres Iniesta

The Spain international has expressed his dismay with the behaviour of the Portuguese tactician last season, but is hopeful that Cesc Fabregas will move to Camp Nou this summer

Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta has voiced his opinion that Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho crossed the line with his verbal attacks against the Spanish champions during the 2010-11 campaign.

The Portuguese tactician repeatedly stated that Barca had the support of referees and even accused Uefa of helping the Catalans reach the Champions League final after their bad-tempered semi-final clash in the competition.

"Everybody has the freedom to do with his team whatever he wants. What Mourinho does with Real Madrid is not our business. However, certain things are simply not done and he crossed the line," Iniesta said to La Sexta.

"The truth is that there were a number of very uncomfortable moments and the lines of sportsmanship were crossed more than once."

The World Cup winner then briefly discussed the possible arrival of Arsenal star Cesc Fabregas and confessed he hopes his Spanish international colleague will move to Camp Nou this summer.

"I think that it's possible that the transfer will go ahead. I hope it does. I recently spoke with him by phone and he's very calm."

Barcelona are keen to lure Fabregas back to Catalunya, but an agreement with the London club has yet to be reached for the sale of their skipper, who left the European champions to move to England as a 16-year-old in 2003.
 

Dani Alves: Lionel Messi struggles for Argentina!

Dani Alves suggests Lionel Messi struggles for Argentina because he doesn't have Barcelona team-mates behind him. Camp Nou defender praises the forward but suggests he is a better player at club level thanks to the quality of those around him in Spain

Barcelona and Brazil defender Dani Alves believes Lionel Messi struggles to replicate his club form for Argentina because he does not have the support of the Camp Nou players.

The Copa America host nation struggled to beat Bolivia in their Group A opener on Saturday, settling for a disappointing 1-1 draw after coming back from behind thanks to Sergio Aguero.

Messi was unable to shine for his national team with suggestions that he is just a club player once again coming to the fore and Alves has offered an explanation to those theories.

"In Argentina they want Messi to be what he is for Barcelona, but he does not have the same team-mates," Alves told the press, as reported by Sport.es.

"Not even the best player in the world can help win a game by himself."

Brazil kick off their Copa campaign against Venezuela on Sunday evening.

Real Madrid icon Zinedine Zidane: Barcelona are lucky to have had an exceptional generation of young players

The former Real Madrid star has applauded the graduates of La Masia but also defended his club's own youth policy

Zinedine Zidane has hailed an 'exceptional generation' of Barcelona youth players as the reason for the side's success, but defended the set-up at Real Madrid, where he starred as a player and now works as a special adviser.

Seven out of the Catalan club's starting XI in last season's Champions League final graduated from the famous La Masia academy, including such talents as Lionel Messi, Xavi and Andres Iniesta.

The 39-year-old feels it is a once-in-a-lifetime group of players, and stressed their importance to the Camp Nou outfit.

"Barcelona are fortunate to have an exceptional generation of seven to eight players from the youth system. But you will not see many generations like that," the former World Cup winner told le10sport.com.

Madrid have been labelled as a buying club due to their policy of purchasing 'Galacticos' rather than investing in homegrown talents, but the former France international believes Real also boast an excellent youth system.

"Although many would like to believe otherwise, the policy of Real has always been geared towards training young people," he said.

"We talk constantly about my €75 million transfer, or the €93 million for Cristiano Ronaldo. But there is less talk of the large number of players playing in the league who have gone through the ranks at Madrid.

"There is a real difficulty for these players to reach the first team. So they will deploy their talents elsewhere."
 

Barcelona to announce signings of Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas & Udinese's Alexis Sanchez on Friday

The highly-rated duo have been linked with a switch to Barcelona in recent weeks and could finalise expensive moves to the La Liga champions in just two days' time

Barcelona plan to announce the arrivals of Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas and Udinese forward Alexis Sanchez before the weekend, according to a report from Ona FM.

The Catalan club have been tracking the duo for several weeks now, but their reluctance to meet the players' price-tags have so far prevented a deal from happening.

However, Spanish sources suggest that significant progress in the negotiations has been made in the last days, which could see both Fabregas and Sanchez seal switches to Barcelona in the next 48 hours.

After having an initial offer of €30 million for Fabregas rejected by Arsenal, Barcelona reportedly decided to up the stakes and add in €5m more, and it is believed the Premier League side have agreed with the new proposal.

Meanwhile, the Champions League holders appeared to have strong competition from Manchester City for Sanchez's signature, but with the Citizens deciding not to follow up their interest in the Chilean, the road is now clear for the La Liga champions to land the 22-year-old.

Inter's Samuel Eto'o linked with Manchester City move

Cameroon forward recently confessed a desire to play in the Premier League, and has been tipped to head there in a €25 million deal, according to Italian

Manchester City are the latest club to be linked with Inter striker Samuel Eto'o - just days after speculation suggested he was in talks with Paris Saint-Germain.

The 30-year-old has been linked with an exit from the world champions, despite denials from president Massimo Moratti who recently claimed he would stay.

And after reports claimed the forward was heading for France to follow former coach Leonardo, who is set to take on a directorial role at PSG, Il Corriere dello Sport believes that City are also keen.

The big-spending Eastlands club look set to lose out to Barcelona in the race for Udinese's Alexis Sanchez, and the Premier League side want to offer coach Roberto Mancini consolation with the arrival of Eto'o.

A €25 million bid is being mooted for the hitman, who recently admitted he was contemplating a move to the Premier League.

However, the Italian club appear reluctant to lose one of their best players, while new coach Gian Piero Gasperini has not been given sufficient time to plan his squad for next season following his arrival earlier this week.

Eto'o has a contract at San Siro until 2014, but his current side may offer him improved terms in order to stave off interest from the English club.
 

Barcelona's Pep Guardiola has always been my biggest idol - Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas

The Gunners' star has voiced his admiration of the Barca coach and added that he feels honoured to be able to play with some of the best players in the world for Spain

Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas has confessed that Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola is his idol.

Guardiola made over 300 official appearances for the Camp Nou giants from 1990 until 2001, leaving the club two years before Fabregas moved from Barca's youth academy to Arsenal in 2003, and he is about to embark on his fourth season in charge of the first team.

Speaking briefly at a promotional event in Jakarta Fabregas, who is continually linked with a return to Catalunya, refused to comment on transfer speculation, but according to Sport, he said of the Barca tactician: "Pep Guardiola has always been my biggest idol on the pitch."

The 24-year-old midfielder also expressed his pride of being part of the successful Spain team that triumphed at Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, and briefly discussed his continued passion for the game.

He added: "I feel privileged that I have the chance of playing with some of the best players in the world. Motivation comes from within me. I just love the ball."

Fabregas has made over 200 appearances for Arsenal since making his official debut in October 2003, and Barcelona president Sandro Rosell recently admitted that the club have made enquiries as to a possible return for the playmaker, but added that if the London club demand a fee in excess of €40 million, a deal will not be completed.

Real Madrid reach agreement in principle for Benfica's Fabio Coentrao

Portuguese reports claim Madrid have struck accord for Portugal international, but Spanish club will not comment on the news

Real Madrid and Benfica have reached an agreement in principle for defender Fabio Coentrao, according to reports from Portugal.

The 23-year-old has long been linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu, and has expressed a willingness to complete a switch to the Spanish capital to team-up with Portuguese compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo.

Eagles president Luis Filipe Vieira reportedly negotiated with Spanish officials in Madrid earlier in the week, and Record claims a deal has been reached after the club were satisfied by an undisclosed offer. Recent speculation suggested that a fee in the region of €22m had been reached.

Coentrao is supposedly expected in Madrid to have a medical and reach an agreement over personal terms this weekend, but this has not been confirmed officially by the clubs.

A Madrid source has reacted to the reports from Portugal on Friday morning, and told the Lusa news agency: "We have no comments to make about negotiations, about players, about reports."

Portuguese publication A Bola comments that the Eagles are now keen on Cristian Ansaldi of Rubin Kazan, as a replacement for the full-back.

Cesc Fabregas: Barcelona are the world's best club but I won't harm Arsenal by announcing I want to leave

The Gunners captain has reiterated his admiration for the Catalan giants and has hailed Pep Guardiola’s side, but claims he is still happy at the Emirates Stadium

Cesc Fabregas says Barcelona are the best club in the world, but insists he is happy at Arsenal.

The Spain international came through Barca's famous La Masia youth system before joining the Gunners in 2003, and has since been linked with a return to the Catalan giants.

Speaking at the launch of a fragrance in Spain, Fabregas said: "It's frustrating not to win trophies. Barcelona are a great club, the best in the world, and playing there is a guarantee to win."

Reports this week have suggested that Fabregas' representatives are set to meet with Barcelona to discuss a move this summer, but Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has maintained that the player will not be leaving the Emirates.

Fabregas insists that he does not want to "harm" the club and says Wenger knows what he wants.

He added: "I won't step forward and say I want to join Barca. After eight years at Arsenal, I won't harm the club. That's not my way of being.

"I'm very happy, I'm an Arsenal player now, and that's it. Wenger knows what I want and he's the boss, he decides."

Iker Casillas: Real Madrid target Sergio Aguero is one of the three or four best players in the world

The custodian has showered the young Argentine with some bold praise, but went on to say that switching to a rival club may prove difficult for the striker

Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas has issued Atletico Madrid star Sergio Aguero with some hefty praise ahead of a potential cross-town move, before adding that it will be tough for the Argentine join his side.

Speaking at a press conference, the goalkeeper lavished the Argentine with plaudits, claiming the 23-year-old is among the best players in the world at this time, which would rank him near teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, and Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi.

"Right now, Aguero is one of the three or four players who are a little bit higher in the world of football," said the Madrid skipper.

"He is very young, determined and talented. He is being followed by many great teams."

However, despite the Bernabeu being touted as the striker's most likely post-summer destination, Casillas remained cautious over the likelihood of the deal, given the clubs' fierce rivalry.

"I do not think it would be comfortable or easy [for Aguero] to make a move in the Spanish capital and go from Atletico Madrid to Real Madrid."

Even without the Spanish sides' bitter history, finding any club willing to part with the cash to pay for the the young hitman's €45 million buy-out clause remains a major factor in any potential summer switch.

Pep Guardiola: Barcelona's success down to players, not my coaching ability

La Liga and Champions League winning coach puts success down to his squad, rather than claiming personal credit for another fine campaign at the Camp Nou

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has downplayed his personal achievements as the side's mentor, and claimed that the Catalan club's success is down to the players.

The 40-year-old has won three domestic titles and two European crowns in his three-year tenure at the Camp Nou side, but claims the glory was gained on the pitch.

"This team could have done the same with another coach, but I would not have done it without these players, who are amazing," he told Sport.

The Blaugrana capped off a double-winning season with a 3-1 victory over Manchester United at Wembley, but the team manager remains modest in the face of triumph.

"I do not do anything different to what other football coaches do, whether [in] the First Division, 2nd B or lower grades.

"I [do] not consider myself better than anyone else. I just do my job the best [I can] without losing sight of where I come from, being honest with the players, [trying] not to mislead anyone and conveying my idea of ​​football," the former Spanish international concluded.

Copa America first, future second - Aguero

Atletico Madrid's Sergio Aguero: I will decide my future after Copa America
The Argentina international has been linked with a number of European giants, and after declaring his desire to leave Atleti, no decision will be made until after the Copa

Atletico Madrid attacker Sergio Aguero has made it clear that no decision will be made about his future until after the Copa America, which will be played from July 1 until July 24 in Argentina.

The 23-year-old revealed his desire to leave the Vicente Calderon last month, and has since been linked with clubs such as Bayern Munich, Juventus and Real Madrid, but no new developments are expected until after the showpiece event in his homeland.

"A decision about a possible transfer elsewhere will be made when the Copa America is over. At the moment, I don't know anything about what will happen," Aguero was quoted as saying by Canal 7.

Aguero then briefly responded to recent comments from Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho, who described the Atletico man as a 'fantastic player'.

He added: "Obviously, I am pleased that a coach like him [Mourinho] talks positively about me. It's always good to be praised by other coaches."

Argentina are the favourites to clinch the Copa America crown on home soil under coach Sergio Batista, with Aguero likely to be a key member of his squad.

Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas is not incompatible with Xavi and me - Barcelona's Andres Iniesta

The Barca midfielder has voiced his opinion that his compatriot would fit in well at the Catalans if he leaves Arsenal for a Camp Nou return

Barcelona's Andres Iniesta feels that the possible arrival of Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas at Camp Nou would not represent a problem in the midfield area, stating that the 24-year-old is 'not incompatible' with himself and Xavi.

The Spanish international departed the Barca youth academy for London at the age of 16, but for the third consecutive summer speculation continues to grow that he will make a return to his boyhood club.

Iniesta is of the opinion that Fabregas' arrival would be beneficial for the team as a whole, telling ONA FM: "The possible transfer of Cesc Fabregas is something between Barcelona and Arsenal and we have nothing to do with it. All I can say on it is that Cesc is not incompatible with Xavi and me.

"If he decides to leave Arsenal for a return to Barcelona, the level of the team will only be even higher than it currently is."

Iniesta than discussed the position of head coach Pep Guardiola, who recently revealed that his spell at Barcelona is nearing its end, and made it clear that he's hopeful the successful tactician will stay put.

Guardiola is expected to vacate Camp Nou once his current contract expires at the end of next season, but Iniesta remarked: "Guardiola is the key in our success. I can only hope that he feels comfortable here and will stay with the team.

"We all have the feeling that things are so much easier with him in charge and hope that next year will not be his last."
 

Gonzalo Higuain eyes titles with Real Madrid and rubbishes rumours of a move away from the club

The Argentinian forward has been linked with Juventus but has stated that he does not want to leave the club and is eyeing success at the Santiago Bernabeu next season

Gonzalo Higuain has confirmed that he has no intention of leaving Real Madrid and is keen to fight for a first team place and silverware next season at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Rumours in the European media have linked the Albiceleste frontman with a move away from Los Blancos, with Juventus reportedly interested, but the 23-year-old has confirmed his commitment to the Spanish club.

"It is a great group, I am happy at Madrid," the former River Plate forward stated in an interview with 'Football for All', a South American television program.

"I read something that Jose Mourinho said: "Higuain is not transferable." My desire is to continue in Madrid with him. I want to win more titles and I feel very loved by the people, there is nothing better than being here.

"I am very happy and I have much more [time] in Madrid. In these years I could win the title and play with stars never to be imagined. I'll enjoy it while it lasts," he stated.

Florentino Perez has already confirmed deals for Nuri Sahin and Hamit Altintop, and has been linked with a move for Argentinian attacker Sergio Aguero and Higuain has encouraged his fellow countryman to join him at Madrid.

"If Kun asks for advice, I'll say come. You have to be blind not to want Kun, [he is] one of the best strikers out there and every coach is going to want him.

Al-Wasl coach Diego Maradona attacks Fifa 'dinosaurs' after Sepp Blatter is re-elected as president

The Argentine legend, who has recently been unveiled as the new coach of Al Wasl has hit out at Fifa members, calling them dinosaurs

New Al Wasl coach Diego Maradona has launched a scathing attack on Fifa, comparing members of football's governing body to dinosaurs.

The Argentine icon was speaking at a press conference in Dubai in which he was introduced as head tactician of the United Arab Emirates club.

Fifa have been hit by a corruption scandal in recent weeks, with executive members Jack Warner and Mohamed Bin Hammam receiving suspensions while president Sepp Blatter has been re-elected in his position unopposed.

However, the 1986 World Cup winner is furious with the footballing governing body and believes a major shake-up is needed.

"Fifa is a big museum. They are dinosaurs who do not want to relinquish power. It's always going to be the same," 'El Pelusa' fired, in Saturday's presentation.

The former Argentina coach continued his rant at Fifa, stating he wishes the current Fifa members resign from their positions.

"It doesn't surprise me that Blatter has been re-elected because they only look inwards. They will all be there until they are 105 years old. I hope they resign, but don't get your hopes up that this will happen," he added.

"Many people agree with me that things are not clear in football. The situation at Fifa is still the same, football is run by people who do not understand football."

Maradona has signed a two-year deal with Al Wasl thought to be worth around €8 million.
 

Barcelona's Lionel Messi: I cannot imagine playing for any other club

'La Pulga' affirmed his desire to spend the rest of his career with Barcelona, while insisting that he had no problems with Carlos Tevez or any other Argentina player

Argentina and Barcelona star Lionel Messi has affirmed his loyalty to the Catalan club as he arrived in Buenos Aires to meet up with the rest of the Albiceleste squad, while denying rumours that he has a problem with Carlos Tevez or anyone else in the national set-up.

'La Pulga', who put in a man of the match performance to lift his third Champions League title against Manchester United on Saturday, arrived this morning at Ezeiza airport to a crowd of journalists and photographers.

The 23-year-old superstar ruled out any possibility of leaving Barca who recruited him from Rosario as a teenager, as he began preparations for July's Copa America with the Seleccion.

"I cannot see myself ever playing in any club shirt apart from Barcelona's," Messi told reporters as he left the airport on Tuesday morning, confirming his commitment to the club.

The Argentine star is a certainty for Sergio Batista's Copa America squad, due to be announced later this afternoon. Rumours in the Argentine press have alleged personal difficulties between him and fellow Albiceleste star Carlos Tevez, but Messi dismissed such reports as ridiculous.

"Carlitos has spoken and he said that there is no fight. You guys have already had me fighting with Tevez, [Juan Roman] Riquelme, [Diego] Maradona... I have no problems with anyone and I do not plan to."

And the star finished by affirming his next target was to replicate his club success in the international game, starting by lifting the Copa America in July on home soil.

"I have been lucky enough to win everything with Barcelona and individually, but my goal now is to win things with the Seleccion," he confessed.

Messi and 24 other players will be announced in Batista's Copa America squad at 18:00 local time, a list which will be cut down to 22 for the start of the tournament.

Fifa congress will ask Sepp Blatter to step aside in 2013

Current Fifa president will be asked to step down in two years by members of Wednesday's congress in Zurich in which he is expect to be reconfirmed as leader

Fifa president Sepp Blatter will be advised to step aside in 2013 when representatives of the 208-member association gather in Wednesday's congress for the presidential elections.

Dagbladet claims leaders of the most powerful associations will ask the embattled president to step down in 2013, thus taking on a two-year leadership if he is re-elected.

It is said negotiations among Fifa officials are taking place in Zurich ahead of tomorrow's election in which they are discussing the possibility of Blatter maintaining his position temporarily while they find a replacement.

Blatter stands unopposed in the election race following the withdrawal of suspended AFC president Mohamed Bin Hammam. He pulled out after some of Fifa's most senior members were accused of corruption.

Blatter denied there was a crisis in his organisation amid a clammer of calls for something to be done in regards to the corruption claims which have dogged Fifa recently.
 

Breathtaking Barca outclass United

A brilliant Barcelona put in a dominant performance to claim their fourth European title with a 3-1 win over Manchester United at Wembley. Pedro, Messi, and Villa scoring to lift the trophy.

Barca's front three all got on the scoresheet as the Spanish champions saw off their English counterparts to collect the trophy and seal their place in history

Barcelona are the champions of Europe after producing a scintillating performance to defeat Manchester United 3-1 at Wembley Stadium this evening.

In what proved to be a one-sided affair, Pedro gave the Catalan giants the advantage only for Wayne Rooney to cancel out his strike. In the second half, however, Lionel Messi and David Villa took centre stage, adding their names to the scoresheet in an imperious win.

The first half commenced at a frenetic pace, with Manchester United enjoying the best of the early exchanges. However, Barca eventually found their rhythm, and the match settled into a pattern of the Spanish side enjoying possession while United attempted to keep them at bay.

David Villa enjoyed a pair of efforts, one of which whizzed past the upright, and the other was gathered by Edwin van der Sar. With such dominance being exhibited by Barca, a breakthrough was inevitable, and Pedro duly delivered on 27 minutes.

Xavi was allowed to stroll through the centre of the pitch and reach the penalty area, where he flicked a pass into the path of the winger, who coolly slotted inside Van der Sar's near post for a thoroughly deserved advantage.

But against the run of play, United hit back, albeit in controversial fashion. Interplay between Michael Carrick and Wayne Rooney led to the ball reaching Ryan Giggs, who appeared to be in an offside position before feeding the England striker in space in the area. Rooney kept his head to curl the ball across Victor Valdes and into the corner.

At the end of what was a breathless 45 minutes, Barca looked to regain their advantage. Lionel Messi continued to drift deep and collect the ball, and came within inches of reaching Villa's near-post cutback, but was unable to make definitive connection.

The second half witnessed a continuous flow of traffic towards the United goal. Dani Alves stung the legs of Van der Sar from inside the box before Messi's follow-up was cleared from under the crossbar. But the diminutive frontman was not to be denied.

On 54 minutes, a static United rearguard allowed Messi and space to approach the area and rifle a shot that swerved past a cumbersome dive from Van der Sar and into the net, for his 12th goal in the Champions League this season, equalling Ruud van Nistelrooy's record total in the competition.

Barca maintained the momentum. Messi, Xavi and Iniesta all tested Van der Sar but the keeper stood up to their efforts, but the third seemed destined to arrive, and with 20 minutes remaining, United's fate was sealed.

Sergio Busquets rolled the ball to Villa on the edge of the area, and the Spaniard swerved his strike superbly into the top corner, before running to the fans behind the goal to celebrate.

From then on, Barca were content to see out the victory, to clinch the famous trophy for the fourth time in their history, and their second title in three seasons.

Pep Guardiola: The world has seen that Barcelona deserved to win the Champions League

The coach of the Catalan side was in no doubt that his team earned their victory, which he felt was the result of having plenty of time in which to prepare for the showpiece event

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola was in no doubt that his side merited their Champions League final victory against Manchester United. The Spanish champions won the trophy for the fourth time after a 3-1 victory against the Red Devils.

"It is never easy. We must congratulate Manchester United for the great match they have played. We are pleased because we know how hard it is to win the Champions League," he told TVE.

"We prepared very well for this game and the world has seen that we deserved to win. We controlled the game superbly."

Guardiola hailed his side's preparation ahead of the encounter as key to their success but even in victory, he praised Manchester United for cancelling out Pedro's opening goal.

"This year we had more time to prepare for the final compared to the one in Rome. We were able to prepare well for it and we had a great game. We are very happy with the victory.

"The history of Manchester United told us that we would have a hard time. They played at a high level and managed to equalise so soon after we scored the first goal. I think we must be happy because we were very competitive today."

Guardiola has now won the Champions League twice in three seasons since taking over from Frank Rijkaard in the summer of 2008, with Barcelona also lifting the trophy under Johan Cruyff in 1992 and Rijkaard in 2006.
 

'This is the best Barcelona team I have ever played in' - Lionel Messi warns Manchester United ahead of Champions League final

Argentine star is full of confidence, believes age and experience has improved Catalans since 2009 final and is honoured to be part of Saturday's Wembley showpiece

Lionel Messi has warned Manchester United ahead of Saturday's Champions League final at Wembley that the current Barcelona side is the best he has ever played in.

This season the Catalan giants, inspired by their diminutive Argentine playmaker, once again saw off the challenge of Real Madrid to win their third consecutive Spanish league title, and now head into the final of Europe's premier club competition as clear favourites for the third time in six years.

Pep Guardiola's side last won the Champions League by beating United 2-0 in Rome in 2009 with Messi scoring the decisive second goal, and the 23-year-old insists he and his team-mates are now even stronger than they were two years ago.

"This is definitely the best Barcelona team I have ever played in, that's for sure," he told reporters.

"A lot of the players in the team are the same as a couple of years ago, but we are all older and more experienced.

"It's much deserved that we are winning all these titles and I don't think you will see this team fall down for many years ahead."

Messi admitted he is humbled by the opportunity to take part in another Champions League final, and revealed the experience of winning the competition two years ago has given him the confidence to become an even better player.

"To me, the Champions League is the greatest tournament you can play in, besides the World Cup," he added.

"It has the best players in the world and usually it's the two best teams that reach the final. So it's always a huge privilege to be part of a Champions League final.

"I have big expectations for this match. I have got older and more experienced. I have been in many of the situations before and I take more wise decisions now on the pitch.

"I know what I'm capable of and that means a lot. And I'm playing with a huge self-confidence. I get strange ideas in my head during a match but I'm brave enough to try them because I have this confidence."
 

Andrea Pirlo joins Juventus on three-year contract

Veteran Italian has penned a deal with the Turin giants and will play for them for the next three years

Juventus have announced that they have signed midfielder Andrea Pirlo as a free agent on a contract that will last until June 30, 2014.

The former Italian and European champions stated on their official website on Tuesday evening that Pirlo underwent a medical this morning and after successfully passing it, has agreed to commit himself to the club for the next three years.

“Andrea Pirlo is now officially a Juventus player,” read a club statement. “The club has reached an agreement with the midfielder.

“The contract signed is from July 1, 2011 until June 30, 2014.”

Juventus also added that the 32-year-old has already taken the necessary tests and stated: “This morning, Andrea Pirlo underwent the usual medical check-up for Juventus.

“The midfielder underwent tests and analyses at Fornaca di Sessant clinic, Isokinetic centre and Sports Medicine Centre in Torino.”

Pirlo’s current contract with Italian champions AC Milan expires this summer and, as Goal.com exclusively revealed earlier this month, he was set to join Juventus.

The Italy international leaves the Milanese club after 10 years. He commenced his professional career with Brescia and also played for Inter.

Barcelona’s Lionel Messi: We can not underestimate Manchester United

FIFA Ballon d’Or winner is against any talk of the English giants not up to the level of the Catalan powerhouse

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi has warned against underestimating the strength of their Champions League final opponents Manchester United.

The Spanish champions take on their English counterparts in the final of Europe’s premier club competition at Wembley in London on Saturday evening in a repeat finale of 2008-09.

Two years ago Barcelona defeated United 2-0 in Rome, thanks to goals from Samuel Eto'o and Messi, and will once again start this year’s final as favourites.

Messi, though, believes that it will be unfair to write off Sir Alex Ferguson’s side, who won a record 19th Premier League title this campaign.

"They won the English championship and they are in the Champions League final,” the Argentina international said in a press conference on Monday. “They can't be very weak if they have achieved all that.

"It is a final, it is a special match given what is at stake. The good memory of Rome is behind us. This will be a totally different match. We are facing a very strong adversary, which has very good players."

Man United and Barcelona have won the European Cup three times each.

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho calls for more fair play next season

The Portuguese broke his recent silence as he released a statement addressing fans on the club's official site - and used the opportunity to attack both Barcelona and Uefa

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has launched a fresh attack on his side's fierce rivals Barcelona and has called for more fair play in La Liga and Europe next season.

Mourinho has refused to speak to the press ever since Uefa handed the Portuguese a five-match European ban for his comments following the recent Champions League semi-final against the Catalan club.

The 48-year-old took the opportunity today to send a message to the Madrid fans - and to Uefa - with a statement released today on the club's official website.

"I have a simple wish: that is for us to recover principles that shouldn't be forgotten by anyone and that some football professionals and institutions have forgotten at times this season, and which should be the foundations of a sport like ours."

And he added, partly in reference to Uefa's decision to take no action against Barca's Sergio Busquets for an alleged racist remark made to Madrid's Marcelo: "To speak of fair play, respect for your adversary and showing a red card to racism should not be words; they should be deeds.

"I hope that next season we can recover those fundamental principles for our sport."

Mourinho also thanked Madrid's fans for their support this term.

"The season has ended and I want to thank the fans of Real Madrid for all the affection and support offered to the team and the coaching staff.

"We have worked seriously and with dedication, but obviously we will leave the analysis of the work of the squad throughout this year to your judgement."
 

Real Madrid's Iker Casillas: Those who did not see Sergio Busquets racially abuse Marcelo must be blind

Spanish international questions Uefa's stance over the Busquets - Marcelo racial row, and feels that the images speak for themselves

Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas has stated his disbelief that Uefa did not take further action against Barcelona's Sergio Busquets for alleged racial abuse towards Marcelo in the side's recent Champions League semi-final encounter.

Madrid brought a case against Busquets in which they claimed he had called Marcelo "a monkey",
but the Catalan midfielder was not charged by the governing body.

Casillas told Marca that he finds it hard to accept those responsible for looking into the allegations failed to recognise what had been said.

He blasted: "Everyone saw the images and if Uefa says something else, what can I say? I’m not calling on anything [in terms of punishment] for a team-mate and friend of mine, but the images are there [for all to see]. Those who say he did not say it – I think they must be blind.

"It is Barca-Madrid, you are playing for a place in the final and you can lose your head at any given moment. I don’t know if Marcelo said anything to Busquets beforehand, but the cameras have caught Sergio so I don’t understand [why there is no punishment].

"I have a great relationship with Busquets. He’s a really nice guy, an excellent person and I can’t say a bad word about him.

"But on the pitch there are times when he has a hot head because there is so much at stake. He defends Barcelona and I defend Real Madrid. In a given moment, he does something and makes a mistake, but there’s no point dwelling on it. Wise people rectify."

Alessandro Nesta signs 2012 AC Milan extension

It's now official as AC Milan confirm Italian defender has agreed new deal

Alessandro Nesta has secured another season at AC Milan after the club announced the signing of a 2012 extension.

A statement on the club's official website reads:

"A.C. Milan communicates that Alessandro Nesta has today extended his contract until June 30, 2012."

There had been plenty of speculation regarding the player's future and some reports went as far as to suggest he would retire.

However, Milan's latest move has disproved such talk with Nesta becoming the fourth player after Thiago Silva, Mark Van Bommel and Flavio Roma to pen new deals.

Silva, Van Bommel and Roma all signed new contracts yesterday.

Nesta, 35, played 26 games for the Scudetto-winning team, and has been at San Siro since the 2002-03 season.

Barcelona’s Lionel Messi is not as good as Johan Cruyff, Michel Platini or Alfredo Di Stefano – Pele

The 70-year-old continues to cast doubt on the Argentine’s status as one of the world’s greatest but says that Barcelona are the best club side on the planet

Brazilian legend Pele has once again raised questions over the greatness of Barcelona forward Lionel Messi and says that he has to achieve a lot to be compared with some of the legends of the past.

Messi, winner of the past two Ballon d’Or awards, is widely recognised as the best footballer in the world at the moment. There are also strong suggestions that the 23-year-old is set to become one of the greatest footballers of all-time.

However, Pele has refused to warm up to that belief and recently underlined Messi’s under-par performance for the Argentina national team.

According to Chilean newspaper La Tercera, the former Santos forward has once again raised his concern on the hype surrounding Messi and is quoted as saying: “People like to compare but they seem to have forgotten [Johan] Cruyff, [Michel] Platini and [Alfredo] Di Stefano, who were better than [Lionel] Messi.”

The three-time World Cup winner with Brazil also gave his opinion on the Champions League final and said: “Manchester United are a strong side and are faithful to the English style of football. But I have no doubt that as a team Barcelona are the best in the world.”

Messi scored against United in the final of Europe’s most prestigious club competition in 2008-09 in Barcelona’s 2-0 victory.
 

Kaka commits himself to Real Madrid: I have a challenge in Spain

Former AC Milan player insists that he will not be going back to Italy this summer, nor will he be reunited with Carlo Ancelotti at Chelsea after a disappointing season in Spain

Real Madrid midfielder Kaka has maintained that he wants to stay with the Spanish giants next season and is not thinking about playing in either England or Italy.

The Brazilian joined Real Madrid in 2009 for a then world record £59.8 million but has not been a regular starter.

Rumours have circulated that he could leave in the summer, either to Chelsea – to reunite with former manager Carlo Ancelotti – or back to Italy, where he was such a dominant force with AC Milan.

However, the man himself has stressed his desire to stay in the Spanish capital, despite the fact that his mother is moving to England next year.

"I want to stay in Real Madrid and I want to play for Real Madrid," he told reporters.

"My mother is coming to live in London next year. She is a preacher and she is coming to talk about God.

"But I have a challenge in Real Madrid. I don't want to think now about playing in the Premier League or going back to Italy.

"I want to get back in good shape and play for Real Madrid next season.

"I have had a bad two years, I can say that. But now we have won a cup and got to the semi-final of the Champions League.”

The Brazilian was the subject of a massive bid from Manchester City in January 2009, but Kaka said that he never considered joining the club.

"I refused Manchester City because it was the middle of the season and I always said that I wanted to go to Madrid if I left Milan," he said.

Likewise, on the subject of a rumoured move to Chelsea, Kaka was dismissive about linking up with former boss Ancelotti.

"I have a good relationship with Carlo but the truth is that I want to stay in Madrid, I want to play in Madrid and I want to live in Madrid," he explained.

Jose Mourinho should not be blamed for everything Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos

Spanish international happy for Busquets to play at Wembley, but said Mourinho cannot be blamed for tension following recent results

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos has defended coach Jose Mourinho from criticism, insisting he should not take the blame for their Liga and Champions League shortcomings.

The Portuguese coach has come under heavy fire in recent weeks after Barcelona eliminated the capital club from the Champions League, and then went on to win the Spanish title.

Much controversy followed the battles between both clubs, and recent news of Sergio Busquets being let off the hook by Uefa following alleged racist remarks has drawn mixed opinions.

"I'm happy for Sergio Busquets, because he is a Spain team-mate and I wish him well. The only thing that does not seem right or fair is that the only injured party here is Mourinho," Ramos told Marca.com.

"Football has people to take decisions and we cannot do anything," he added, referring to Uefa's actions in relation to the Busquets case.

Ramos was asked whether all the tension whipped up by the Clasicos would affect the national side.

"It would be a grave error if it affected a good and phenomenal group that we have in the team," he said.

"With objectives like the World Cup and European Championships, it should not affect us.

"There was rivalry and tension because there was so much at stake in these games. But you have to forget this and focus on the collective goals that we have."

Barcelona celebrate La Liga title victory with bus parade

The recently crowned La Liga champions were in festive mood with an open-air bus attracting plenty of their fans on the way to Camp Nou

Barcelona have celebrated their La Liga title victory with an open-air bus parade through the Catalan city with thousands of supporters turning up to congratulate their heroes.

Pep Guardiola's men secured their 21st domestic league title on Wednesday evening, following the 1-1 draw away at Levante.

The team enjoyed a meal together before boarding the bus for a tour around Barcelona that lasted a total of 90 minutes, finishing at Camp Nou.

Barcelona players, along with the coach Guardiola, trainers and medical staff were on the specially modified bus which was covered with images of the team with the words 'Campions' (champions) written on it.

Yellow banners draped over the bus with the phrase "Llorca al nostro cor" (Lorca in our hearts) displayed. The banners were a message of support to the city of Murcia where a devastating earthquake killed nine people on Wednesday.

The party continued in the stadium where captain Carles Puyol and Xavi ran around the pitch holding the Catalan flag while the giant screens broadcast images of the club's memorable 5-0 victory over rivals Real Madrid back in November.

Supporters in Camp Nou cheered as every player's name was called one by one with Eric Abidal's name in particular earning a massive cheer.

The players were given the opportunity to say a few words to the fans with midfield maestro Xavi declaring: "There is no point thinking about others because Barcelona are the best team in the world."

Goalkeeper Victor Valdes was also keen to give praise to the side by saying: "If anyone wonders why we are here, it's because we are the best."

After musical celebrations, the supporters present were treated to a real party atmosphere in the stadium with a firework display while the team made a circle in the centre of the pitch.

The Catalan giants will be back at Camp Nou on Sunday where they entertain Deportivo. The club will then be looking to complete the double when they contest the Champions League final against Manchester United on May 28.

Adriano Galliani: AC Milan will not sign Real Madrid’s Kaka, Mario Balotelli from Manchester City is unlikely

The Italian giants’ transfer chief admits that recruiting the duo will be tough for them and will start talking about players’ contracts from Tuesday

AC Milan CEO Adriano Galliani has admitted that they cannot afford to sign midfielder Kaka from Real Madrid this summer, adding that striker Mario Balotelli is also unlikely to arrive from Manchester City.

Both the players have been linked with a move to the Italian giants, with Kaka being a former Milan player and Balotelli a fan of the club.

Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo too is reported to be on club president Silvio Berlusconi’s wishlist but Galliani has dismissed all these suggestions.


“Unfortunately Kaka will not return and the reasons are economic ones,” he said, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport. “Mario Balotelli to Milan? I doubt it.”

Striker Marco Borriello, who was farmed out on loan to Roma last summer, will not return to San Siro either, he added.

“Roma will probably buy out Marco Borriello, while there’s absolutely no truth in talks for [Real Madrid’s] Cristiano Ronaldo or [Chelsea] Michael Essien,” confirmed Galliani.

When asked about offering new contracts to Clarence Seedorf, Andrea Pirlo, Alessandro Nesta, Filippo Inzaghi and Massimo Ambrosini, Galliani stated: “On Monday I am in a Lega Calcio meeting, so from Tuesday I’ll start speaking to the players about contract renewals.

“When a deal expires, everyone has to agree on the next course of action. We will look at the problem and see what happens.”

Milan have already won the Serie A title this season and defeated Cagliari 4-1 at San Siro in the league on Saturday evening.

Barcelona third time in a row Liga Champions!

The Levante 1-1 Barcelona: Pep Guardiola's men clinch third successive title courtesy of Keita header. Barca needed a point to become champions, and they duly obliged to once again confirm their domestic superiority in Spain

Barcelona have been crowned Primera Division champions for the third consecutive season after securing a 1-1 draw with Levante this evening in Valencia.

The Camp Nou giants required just a single point from their final three fixtures in order to top the pile in La Liga once again, and achieved their target at the first attempt thanks to a stunning Seydou Keita header. Felipe Caicedo levelled for the hosts, but the party had already begun for Pep Guardiola and his players.

The Barca supporters in attendance, in addition to the gathering masses in Catalunya, waited expectantly for their team to make the breakthrough so that the title celebrations could commence.

After a patient early spell, the visitors opened the scoring with a glorious goal and settled the nerves of the watching Cules.

Xavi collected the ball on the right flank, and drifted an inch-perfect delivery into the area to meet the run of Keita, who threw himself full-length to head the ball home from just inside the box.

The midfielder's strike should have represented an opening of the floodgates, with the champions-in-waiting expressing themselves, but Levante have been in superb form in the second half of the campaign, and drew level before the interval.

However, their effort owed much to the dreadful defending of Gerard Pique, who with Felipe Caicedo at his back attempted to hook the ball clear, but woefully sliced his kick, allowing the Ecuadorian striker to round Victor Valdes and slide home.

Barca were quickly out of the blocks in the second-half, with the interval cut short by the eager visitors' desire to seal the point they needed.

Messi was once again at the heart of their attacking play. Before the hour mark he produced a mesmerising run that sliced through the home back line, but as Munua approached, his placed shot rebounded from the inside of the post, and dramatically rolled to safety.

The Argentine then went on another dribble, but this time his effort was deflected and rolled agonisingly wide of the target.

Barca knew the job was done, though, and retained possession, and energy in the closing stages, counting down the seconds until their efforts across the campaign could be rewarded.

The whistle eventually came, to a resounding chorus of 'Champions' from the stands, and the Catalans could rejoice in another record-breaking season. Their next target is now Manchester United, in the Champions League final on May 28.

Real Madrid's Jorge Valdano tells Jose Mourinho to 'lower the decibels'

General manager has told coach Jose Mourinho to 'lower the decibels' in a new clash between the two men

Real Madrid general manager Jorge Valdano has told Jose Mourinho to reduce his opinions in the media and focus on matters on the pitch.

The outspoken coach has been at the centre of controversy and locked in a war of words with his Barcelona rival Pep Guardiola, which has landed him in hot water with UEFA.

"It is important for Mourinho to step aside and lower the decibels," Marca reports the Argentinian as saying after Madrid's 4-0 win over Getafe.

"Valdano is the mouthpiece of Real Madrid, not Mourinho," club spokesman Eladio Parames added, when asked about the claims.

The comments are sure to throw up questions over 'The Special One's' future at the Bernabeu, with the Portuguese unable to halt Barca's stranglehold over the Spanish game.

Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho hasn't made a single good decision against Barcelona - Johan Cruyff

The Barcelona icon is not impressed with the tactics of the Portuguese coach and has stated that Mou didn't get right in the Clasicos

Barcelona icon Johan Cruyff has criticised Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho for his negative tactics in the Champions League semi-final between both sides and feels that the Portuguese tactician didn't make a single good decision in the recent quartet of Clasicos.

"Real Madrid's recent La Liga results prove that Barcelona did a great job in the Champions League. Madrid comfortably beat Athletic Bilbao, Valencia and Sevilla in away games, which is not easy," wrote Cruyff in his weekly column in El Periodico de Catalunya.

"They were four intense Clasicos. The mental aspect was perhaps even more tiresome than the physical aspect, mainly because of Mourinho. It's something from the past now, but Mourinho didn't get a single decision right, both on and off the pitch."

Cruyff then went on to state that the Real Madrid coach is obsessed with Barcelona, adding: "I don't want to pay too much attention to Mourinho and his 'Barcelonitis' any more. His special tactics to disrupt Barcelona are behind us now.

"He wouldn't have had to change his tactics if he had faith in his own players. Nevertheless, every coach is responsible for his own decisions."

Barcelona progressed to the final of the Champions League by beating Real Madrid 3-1 on aggregate.
 

Barcelona & Manchester United to contest 2010-11 Champions League final

The two European giants will once again lock horns to clinch the most coveted trophy in club football, with both having won the competition three times

Barcelona and Manchester United will confront each other in the final of the Champions League for the second time in three years.

While the Spanish champions got the better of their arch-rivals Real Madrid 3-1 on aggregate in the first semi-finals, the Red Devils swept aside German opposition Schalke in the last four 6-1 over the two legs.

Pep Guardiola and Sir Alex Ferguson met each other in the finale of Europe’s premier club competition in 2008-09 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome where Barca ran out comfortable 2-0 winners, with Samuel Eto’o and Lionel Messi etching their names on the scoresheet.

This time the final is at Wembley in London on May 28. Barcelona won their first European Cup in 1991-1992 at the old Wembley stadium and will be hoping to conquer Europe for the fourth time in their history.

As for United, it will be their third appearance in the final in four years and Sir Alex will aspire to win his third Champions League trophy following successes in 1999 and 2008.

Barcelona’s Xavi: We were superior to Real Madrid in Champions League semi-finals

Catalan maestro stresses that they were the better team over the 180 minutes of football between the two teams in Europe’s most prestigious club competition

Barcelona midfielder Xavi insists that no matter what their rivals Real Madrid suggest in terms of conspiracies, they were the better team overall in the semi-finals of the Champions League.

The Catalan giants progressed to the final of Europe’s premier club competition after defeating their arch-rivals 3-1 on aggregate.

The first-leg at the Santiago Bernabeu last week ended in a controversial 2-0 win for Barca with Madrid defender Pepe and coach Jose Mourinho sent off.

The controversy continued this week as the second-leg at Camp Nou on Tuesday evening ended in a 1-1 draw with striker Gonzalo Higuain’s goal disallowed by the referee.

However, Barca midfielder Xavi believes that they were the better team over the two legs and told reporters: “The team did a great job, especially in defence. We knew that they were going to push a little higher. We had more possession - maybe not as much as we had earlier - but justice was done. We were superior in the overall tie.

“They [Madrid] have lost and that must be somehow justified. Tonight was a fantastic night for Barcelona. We are in the final and we were superior to Madrid, whatever they say.

“In addition, we also had [defender] Eric Abidal returning to the pitch after his recovery from the tumour surgery [that he underwent in March]. It was a great night.”

Barcelona are eight points clear at the top of the table in the Primera Division and host city-rivals Espanyol on Sunday evening.

Looking ahead to the derby, Xavi enthused: “We will see what happens on Saturday [with Real Madrid's result]. We will try to win the league and will see what happens against Espanyol, but we are very pleased to have done everything we have done so far.”
 

Jose Mourinho has damaged Real Madrid - Ramon Calderon

Calderon has swept the blame on to Mourinho for Madrid's failures, and suggested the coach will lead the club to ruin if he continues making rash statements like he did last week

Former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon believes Jose Mourinho has damaged the reputation of the club with his comments and actions following their elimination at the hands of Barcelona in the Champions League.

Madrid were dumped from Europe following the 1-1 draw at Camp Nou (3-1 on aggregate), in a game in which Mourinho was not present following his sending off last week.

Plenty of growls followed the first-leg, with both Mourinho and Cristiano Ronaldo suggesting there were sinister forces working against their team.

The coach was filmed by Spanish media making a hand gesture on their return from last night's game, suggesting they had been robbed.

Calderon is not impressed by the talk, nor by Madrid's wavering form, and he believes the mess has stemmed from Mourinho's ruling circle.

"To talk like that has been harmful for Real Madrid," Calderon told BBC Sport. "Big clubs should not blame the referee for their mistakes or their defeats.

"We invested £400 million in the last two years to be a very important and strong team so if you lose you cannot blame injuries, bad luck, referees or nothing.

"If you lose you have to congratulate the rival and that is all. What he did in terms of talking about Uefa and referees is not acceptable at all," Calderon concluded.
 

Gianluigi Buffon will stay at Juventus as Roma reports are false - agent

Agent reacts to latest suggestions his client is heading south, but it turns out to be a case of more transfer market rumours

Gianluigi Buffon's agent believes his client will stay at Juventus and not move to Roma in the summer.

The 33-year-old goalkeeper continues to be linked with the capital city club who look set to revamp their squad following the takeover by Thomas DiBenedetto.

But Buffon is unlikely to be one of the fresh faces arriving in the Eternal City.

"I really don’t know how certain things can be said," agent Silvano Martina told romagiallorossa.it. "I will once again maintain that no negotiation to take Buffon to Roma exists.

"I have also never spoken to any Roma official regarding such a possibility."

A report claimed Walter Sabatini, who is expected to join Roma as director of sport, was pulling the strings as he is good friends with Martina.

"Everyone knows that Sabatini and I are great friends and we dine with each other regularly," he continued.

"That doesn’t mean that we talk about Buffon going to Roma. No one has contacted me to talk about the best goalkeeper in the world.

"I’ve also read reports that I have held talks with [Roma official Gianpaolo] Montali, but I have never met him.

"Buffon is a Juventus player and he intends to remain a Juventus player."
 

Barcelona's Andres Iniesta could return to face Real Madrid on Tuesday

Iniesta has returned to training, leading to reports that the midfielder could be back in action for the final Clasico of the season

Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta is in contention to feature in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final, second-leg clash against Real Madrid.

El Mundo Deportivo reports that the Spanish international trained with the players who did not take part in the 2-1 defeat to Real Sociedad on Saturday night.

Iniesta missed Wednesday's 2-0 win in Madrid, and he was left out of the squad once more for the match in the Basque country due to a persistent calf problem.

The latest reports from Spain suggest however he could be part of the squad for the match at Camp Nou, but this has yet to be confirmed by Barcelona, who are likely to announce their squad tomorrow.

Carles Puyol, who also sat out the Sociedad match, worked separately from the rest of the team as he continues his recovery.

Barcelona confirm intention to report Jose Mourinho to Uefa

The Catalan club have announced they will be taking action against the Real Madrid coach with Uefa

Barcelona have announced that they intend to approach Uefa over Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho's tirade against coach Pep Guardiola following the visitors' 2-0 Champions League semi-final, first-leg win on Wednesday night at the Bernabeu.

"Yesterday Mr Mourinho went over the line. We trust in Uefa measures," said board member and club secretary Antoni Freixa Martin.

"The president decided to convene a special meeting and we will report the coach of Real Madrid to the Control and Disciplinary Committee of Uefa for his statements. They constitute a fraction of Article 5," he continued.

"We cling to point B and D of the article because we feel the club's reputation has been damaged.

"We have reacted because there has been an offence against the club, players, staff and fans."

The Catalan side has taken action after Mourinho suggested Barcelona's victories were based on scandal.

"Pep Guardiola is a fantastic football coach, but he won a Champions League following the scandal of Stamford Bridge. I would have been ashamed to win it like that. And this year, if he wins, it will be with the scandal of the Bernabeu," Mourinho said after the game.

It's this sentence which has aggrieved the Camp Nou outfit who will thus present their case to Uefa.

Earlier Uefa said they had launched their own investigation into matters following the incidents during the game last night.

Pep Guardiola avoids Real Madrid talk and focuses on Barcelona's trip to face Real Sociedad

Coach eager to keep focus on La Liga as he fears more talk on Real Madrid could add to distractions and put title hopes at risk. Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has chosen to sidestep questions about Real Madrid and focus on Saturday's match against Real Sociedad in the Basque country.

The tactician appeared eager to keep the attention on tomorrow's game at Anoeta when speaking to the media, claiming the three points would take his side closer to clinching La Liga.

He stated: "If we win tomorrow then we will take a second giant step forward. We are very tired but we must focus on victory.

"We are not interested in talking about the impact of Wednesday's game, we play tomorrow in the league. We must try to find the strength, knowing that if we win then we will almost have it [La Liga].

"We're playing for the most important title of the year. It would be almost a decisive step. There are no distractions that are worth [risking]. Madrid are not going to give anything away, they will not fail. We have to win."

Guardiola was asked whether he felt his team had placed one foot in the Champions League final following Wednesday's 2-0 semi-final first-leg win at the Bernabeu, but remained cautious, and was keen to point out that the only title that has been decided is the Copa del Rey - in Madrid's favour.

"We are not in the final. The only one who has a title is Madrid, not us. In the league they are not going to give anything away. We we must earn the right to play another final."

Andres Iniesta is unlikely to play after missing out in the Champions League, but the coach added that he is close to making a return to action.

He added: "He is better, but not recovered. The most important is that he gets better. He is touching the ball. but we don't want to risk it."

Finally, on Wednesday's hero Lionel Messi, he said of his potential involvement in San Sebastian: "He has taken a couple of knocks, but he will get better with time."

It's disgusting to live in this world - Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid-Barcelona rant in full

The Portuguese tactician once again saw one of his sides being reduced to 10 men in an encounter with Barcelona and was not amused with the Catalan side

Real Madrid tactician Jose Mourinho was not amused after his side's 2-0 Champions League loss against Barcelona on Wednesday evening and hit out at referee Wolfgang Stark. The German ref not only dismissed Barcelona's Jose Pinto at half-time but also showed Madrid defender Pepe a red card, as well as sending Mourinho to the stands for dissent.

Predictably, the course of events at the Bernabeu were met with more headlines when the 'Special One' faced the press after the match.

"Let me be clear on this, we're talking about a fantastic team here [Barcelona]. However, I don't understand why he [Stark] did what he did today in an evenly balanced game. It's the referee's job to make sure that both sides are treated equally so that the best side wins," said Mourinho to Marca.

"Yes, we're basically out of the Champions League after this loss. Sometimes, it's disgusting to live in this world, but this is apparently our world. We'll go to Barcelona filled with pride, but we have to make do without Pepe, who didn't do anything wrong, without Sergio Ramos, who didn't do anything wrong, and without the coach sitting on the bench."
.

Magical Messi wins battle of the Bernabeu

Real Madrid 0-2 Barcelona: Sublime Lionel Messi sinks 10-man Madrid in battle of the Bernabeu
A Lionel Messi brace has put Barca in the driving seat after a heated affair at the Bernabeu

Barcelona drew first blood in the Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid after Lionel Messi led the visitors to a 2-0 triumph on Wednesday evening.
After a first-half devoid of any real scoring chances, drama ensued in the second session when the hosts were forced to play the final 30 minutes with ten men following a red card for Pepe.

Madrid’s mission was made all the harder when Lionel Messi expertly guided home Ibrahim Afellay’s cross in the 75th minute.

The Argentine star then scored a sensational goal when he waltzed past four Madrid players before sending the ball beyond Iker Casillas, sending the travelling support into raptures.

The opening exchanges took the same route as the previous Clasicos: neither side was able to settle early on, referee Wolfgang Stark being heavily involved from the beginning. Both sides looked to influence him as they attempted to gain a psychological hold on the German official.

Barcelona began to enjoy possession in their own half as the match developed, and came close to taking the lead through David Villa. The World Cup winner darted in-field from out wide and looked to strike the ball across Casillas, but his effort flashed past the far post.

At the other end Marcelo was eager to break forward, his tenacity soon winning Madrid what could have been a vital corner. The hosts hastily took the kick only for Angel di Maria to waste the promising crossing position to the frustration of his team-mates.

Casillas made the game's first stop when he got down low to save from Xavi. Messi had threaded a beautiful pass through to the Spanish international who took the shot first time, firing across Madrid’s goal with pace.

The Argentine repeated his contribution soon afterwards, this time finding Villa behind Real Madrid’s defence, but the striker’s touch deserted him as the men in white saw the danger clear with ease.

Soon after, the Spanish stopper could do nothing to prevent Barcelona from taking the lead. Lionel Messi expertly steered home his 10th Champions League goal of the season from close range after Ibrahim Afellay's swift cross from the right flank, and suddenly Barcelona were well and truly in pole position.

By Messi's standards, this was a mere tap-in - particularly in comparison to what was to follow. Five minutes from the end the little Argentine made history with one of the finest goals ever to be scored in European competition. Seizing the ball fully 30 yards from goal, Messi shrugged off the challenge of Lassana Diarra before playing a truly sumptuous ball - to himself! - past Raul Albiol.

By now he was in the box, but still had all his work ahead of him, for Marcelo and Sergio Ramos were closing in fast. As if they weren't there, Messi changed direction, cut slightly away from goal, then rolled a right-footed shot on the turn that had more than enough accuracy to leave Iker Casillas as helpless as his stunned teammates. A legendary solo goal, and one that surely propelled Barcelona to the Champions League final.

Pep Guardiola’s side walked off at the final whistle with a feeling of jubilation as they will welcome the Copa del Rey champions to the Camp Nou next Tuesday in the culmination of this Clasico Champions League tie.
 

Barcelona's Pep Guardiola would coach Inter if asked by Massimo Moratti - Luis Suarez

Spanish coach would welcome an Inter approach for his services after hinting his time is almost up at Barcelona, claims friend Suarez

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola would have no problem filling the void left by Jose Mourinho at Inter, claims former player Luis Suarez, who played for both clubs.

Earlier this month Guardiola, whose side are leading la Liga by eight points from Real Madrid, suggested his time was coming to an end at Camp Nou, with an exit possible at the end of his current terms in 2012.

And Suarez says the Spanish coach, 40, would not turn down a chance to lead Inter if he was approached by their president Massimo Moratti, who last summer let Jose Mourinho leave to join Real Madrid.

"Pep Guardiola told me that if Moratti thinks about him as future coach he will certainly not say no to the possibility of coaching a great team like Inter," Suarez told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

The picture on current Pinetina boss Leonardo's future has become hazy in recent weeks. He has said he will not accept a director's role at the club in offered amid reports suggesting Moratti wants to move him upstairs.

Inter moved into second in Serie A following a 2-1 win over Lazio on Saturday.

Fans' fault I dropped the Copa del Rey, jokes Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos

Ramos sees funny side after dropping the Copa del Rey from the top of the team bus

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos has jokingly blamed fans after the Copa del Rey became the Copa del Ruin when it was crushed to pieces by a bus.

The Spain international was celebrating Madrid's 1-0 cup final win over Barcelona with the rest of the team as their open-top bus travelled through the Spanish capital.

But he lost grip, the trophy fell under the bus, and the inevitable happened as the driver was unable to stop in time.

However, Ramos has seen the funny side.

He said on his twitter account: "What happened with the cup was a misunderstanding. I did not drop it, it jumped when it saw all the excited Madrid fans."

Luckily for him, and Madrid, the cup makers confirmed a replica trophy has been made.

Federico Alegre, who owns the jewellers who make the cup, said there were no problems.

"Since 05:30 this morning [Thursday] Real Madrid have a trophy in perfect condition which they can show the fans," he told EFE TV.

"There is always a plan B for these cases."

Pep Guardiola urges 'brave' Barcelona to attack Real Madrid in Copa del Rey final

Guardiola can smell success in the Copa del Rey final and wants his side to create chances against Real Madrid

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola insists his team will be ready to handle Real Madrid when the two giants meet in the Copa del Rey final on Wednesday night.

It's the second of four Clasicos between the historic rivals and a chance for Barca to grab some silverware.

"I guess it's a final where anything can happen and there will be a very festive atmosphere. We have to encourage our team and have respect for the other," he told the press.

The coach was asked whether he would use any special measures against Real Madrid after his side appeared to struggle with Pepe playing in midfield for Jose Mourinho's team.

"Real Madrid have many possibilities, but what matters is the essence of the concept. We have talked about what happened on Saturday, what was right and wrong, and whatever they [Madrid] do depends on what we do.

"We have to move the ball faster [to beat Pepe]. If we move faster the defence will come later. For everything else there is the referee.

"We have talked and we know we need to play better to create more chances."

Guardiola went on to reveal that Carles Puyol is back in the squad after he was stretchered off in the 1-1 draw at the weekend.

"Puyol is much better following the injury, which affected him for three months. He has trained at a good rhythm and he will travel."

Guardiola said he was open to changing tactics if necessary during the game.

"We can play in other ways, and we know what we have to do to win," he continued.

"The match at the Bernabeu is a reference point for us. We did some things well, and others not so well. We have to play deeper.

"We have to be brave and we have to try and win."

Madrid were accused of playing negative football, with Mourinho coming under fire from both Johan Cruyff and Alfredo Di Stefano.

"I don't want to criticise the work of a colleague. I don't doubt Di Stefano's Madrid background. They caused us trouble and my colleagues can play as they like," he said.

"Mourinho is a good coach, but I would never permit myself to give tactical opinions on the work of a colleague."

The Spanish coach then stressed the significance of what is at stake on Wednesday.

"It's a very important game for us and we want to win. We are fortunate to be here again and we want to do it," he continued.

"It's an honour for us to play the final against a great team like Real Madrid. Barcelona have some things which we don't and vice versa," he concluded.

The Copa del Rey final will be played at the Mestalla on Wednesday evening.
 

Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho: For once I'd like to see Barcelona with ten men

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho hit out at the officiating after he saw Raul Albiol sent off in El Clasico but not Dani Alves, whom the Portugese felt deserved a red card.

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho could not hide his frustration at what he felt was poor officiating in the aftermath of the 1-1 draw with Barcelona in El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The home side were reduced to ten men when Raul Albiol was sent off for a professional foul on David Villa, which resulted in a penalty converted by Lionel Messi.

"In the first-half, the two teams were equal. We played compact and kept our shape throughout. A win is a win and a draw is a draw but we will take the positives from this game," he said in his post-match press conference.

"What we want is to have equal decisions for both teams. The rules are the same and I am tired of playing matches with ten men. Raul Albiol will miss the cup final for a foul that was nothing."

The Portuguese coach felt that Daniel Alves should have been sent off for Barcelona after the Brazilian brought down Marcelo. And Mourinho professed that he would relish the opportunity to come up against a ten man Barca side.

"As usual, when it is ten against eleven, it is very difficult to play against a team like Barcelona. The referee's approach changed with the decision not to send off Daniel Alves. For once I would like to play against a ten man Barcelona."

Thoughts turned to Wednesday's Copa del Rey final with Mourinho urging the Real Madrid fans to get behind the team in the Mestalla, as well as sounding out a message to the officials:

"The support of the fans will be vital in the final. We expect the fans to respect the occasion and the greatness of both teams."

"It will be a game with more tension. We will try to win but it is different to a league or a Champions League game. Hopefully we will win and will be able to play on equal terms. Today, that was not the case."

Shakhtar Donetsk need a miracle against Barcelona - Fernandinho

Jose Mourinho believes no team can afford Cristiano Ronaldo with Milan being linked to the Portuguese attacker.

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho believes no team in the world can afford Cristiano Ronaldo in light of AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi having declared an interest in the Portuguese international.

The Bernabeu club signed Ronaldo for a world record fee of €94 million from Manchester United in the summer of 2009 and have been rewarded with a phenomenal 73 goals in 80 appearances.

Last week Mourinho stated he would leave the club if his compatriot was sold to Milan but has since taken a more laid-back stance on the situation.

"I'm not saying it's impossible, because in football you never know, and [AC Milans president Silvio] Berlusconi can make a crazy offer. But it must be a true madness because Real Madrid don't want to sell Cristiano Ronaldo," the coach told Sky Italia.

The former Chelsea manager also spoke to Real's official website, highlighting how any move involving Ronaldo would be down to club president Florentino Perez.

"He [Ronaldo] is a tremendous player and I don't think anyone can afford to pay what he's worth, but only Florentino Perez has the final say in this.

"Only the president of Real Madrid can put a stop to Milan's endeavours to sign Cristiano Ronaldo."

Mourinho's comments come in the build-up to Saturday's highly-anticipated Clasico, the first of four meetings with Barcelona in three weeks.

Shakhtar Donetsk need a miracle against Barcelona - Fernandinho

Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Fernandinho has admitted that the Ukrainians need a miracle if they are to eliminate Barcelona from the Champions League.

Shakhtar Donetsk's Fernandinho has stated that it will be very difficult for the Pitmen to end Barcelona's Champions League adventure at the Donbass Arena on Tuesday evening.

Barca won the first match at Camp Nou 5-1 and are sitting in pole position to reach the semi-finals, forcing Fernandinho to admit to fifa.com that the task facing his side is verging on the impossible.

The Brazilian said: "Eliminating Barcelona is extremely difficult. We need to beat them 4-0 and I don’t even know who were the last team to do that. But we’re going to try to pick up a win at the very least.

"Even if we don’t manage to knock them out, we’re going to at least try and exit the Champions League with a win in front of our home fans. That would give them something to be pleased about. It’s about playing for Shakhtar’s pride."

Fernandinho hopes that the weekend visit to the Santiago Bernabeu to face rivals Real Madrid may force the Blaugrana to lose focus.

"We need a real miracle. But I’ve not given up hope. They’ve got an important game against Real Madrid next weekend and, who knows, they might rest a few players which would work in our favour."
 

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti: Wayne Rooney is Manchester United's most dangerous player

Blues boss says the England international is the Red Devils’ danger man, but insists his side will not have any special plans to nullify the threat of the forward

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has warned his players that Wayne Rooney is Manchester United's danger man.

The 25-year-old has undergone a season filled with ups and downs, as he took some criticism for his form earlier on in the campaign and for handing in a transfer request, before he was awarded a new long-term contract at Old Trafford.

In recent weeks, the England international has found his form again, and he scored the only goal of the game as United won 1-0 at Stamford Bridge in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash against Chelsea last week,

Ancelotti told reporters: "I think that, obviously, Rooney is the most dangerous player in the squad.

"We have to pay attention to his position and his performance. We have to do better than we did in the last game."

However, the former AC Milan boss maintained that he would not alter his tactics to counter Rooney at the cost of curbing his team's instinct to play their own game.

He added: "But we don't change our shape, our mentality, our philosophy to control Rooney. We want to play our football at the best level we can."

Karim Benzema not included in Real Madrid squad to face Athletic Bilbao

French international Benzema has been left out of Real Madrid’s team due to injury as they travel to the Basque country to confront Athletic Bilbao on Saturday evening…

Striker Karim Benzema has been left out of Real Madrid’s 20-man squad for Saturday evening’s Spanish Primera Division encounter with Athletic Bilbao at San Mames.

The 23-year-old picked up a thigh injury during international duty with France against Croatia last week and missed last weekend’s 1-0 league defeat to Sporting Gijon and midweek’s 4-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League quarter-final first leg.

Benzema was expected to return to action against Athletic on Saturday but has been kept out of the side to allow him more time to recover.

Midfielders Fernando Gago, Pedro Leon and Sami Khedira are also missing because of their respective injuries but attacking midfielder Kaka has been included along with forward Gonzalo Higuain.
 

Barcelona's Pep Guardiola quashes quit rumours after Villarreal victory

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola confirms he has no plans to leave the club in the immediate future...

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has moved quickly to quash rumours that he is likely to quit the Catalan club in the near future.

Quotes from Guardiola emerged earlier this week from Italian television channel Rai Sport stating the tactician believed his time at Camp Nou was coming to an end.

The comments also highlighted that his contract is due to expire in 2012 with an extension unlikely as 'players get tired of coaches and vice-versa'.

"I was not betrayed in the interview but I want to make clear that I am not thinking about leaving the club immediately. Maybe I am naive when it comes to dealing with the press and I will learn in the future," Guardiola told the media.

The 40-year-old coach was speaking after Barcelona's 1-0 La Liga victory over Villarreal last night which saw the Catalan giants extend their lead at the top of the table to eight points after Real Madrid's shock 1-0 home loss to Sporting.

However, the Blaugrana tactician refused to rule out their bitter rivals, stating how the champions must keep their concentration.

He added: "If we believe it is over, it is possible Barca will miss out on the championship. Real Madrid will fight until the very last moment."

Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho confirms Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Marcelo will miss Tottenham Hotspur Champions League clash

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Marcelo will miss the upcoming games against Sporting Gijon and Tottenham Hotspur.

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has revealed in Friday's press conference that the injured Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Marcelo will miss the upcoming matches against Sporting Gijon and Tottenham Hotspur due to injury.

"The doctors have made it clear that Benzema, Ronaldo and Marcelo will not be ready before the game against Athletic de Bilbao," Mourinho was quoted as saying.

Madrid lock horns with Bilbao on Sunday April 10, but before then take on Sporting in the league tomorrow and Tottenham in the Champions League on April 5, meaning that los Blancos will be without three key players for those two fixtures.

"The game against Sporting Gijon is very important for us. Not as important as the upcoming Copa del Rey final, but more important than the the clash with Tottenham," added Mourinho.

The 'Special One' got some positive news on the injury front as Argentinian forward Gonzalo Higuain is available again after a long injury lay-off.

"Higuain's recovery is great news for us. He's back to full fitness again and will be very important for us in the final stages of the season. I want to congratulate him and the medical staff on his quick recovery. They've done a great job. I hope that the fans will give him a warm welcome when he returns to the pitch."

The Portuguese coach finally took the time to discuss his future at Real Madrid and stated that he's very happy at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"I still have a contract for four years, but that's not what's important here. What counts is that everybody's satisfied. I will stay put as long as everybody's happy. I'll stay here if the players, fans and club's direction want me to stay."

Victory over the two legs of the Champions League clash would set up a potential semi-final with traditional foes Barcelona, but the loss of three key first team players is a huge setback to Los Blancos.
 

Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho: I was on verge of accepting England job

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has revealed that he was close to taking charge of England, but eventually opted to stay in club football instead.

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has claimed that he was on the verge of taking over England's national team in September 2007 before eventually deciding to stay active in club football instead.

The Portuguese tactician told L'Equipe: "I was hours away from replacing Steve McClaren. I almost signed up for the English national side.

"But at the last moment I began thinking, 'I am going to coach a national side, there will be one match a month and the rest of the time I will be in my office or supervising matches, and then will have to wait until the summer to compete in a European Championship or a World Cup'? No, it wasn't for me."

"So at the last moment I pulled back, preferring to wait for the right job to come along, a good club, a challenge that could motivate me. That was Inter."

Mourinho went on to say that he feels he can guide Real Madrid to success again as long as the club accepts him for who he is.

He said of his current situation at los Blancos: "The issue is not one of power but of having the conviction that one can succeed. Clubs must understand that coaching for me is not just encouraging players, preparing matches, drawing up the team sheet and who you send on and take off. If you take me on as coach you must take me as I am."
 

Barcelona Cannot Afford To Pay €50 Million For Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas – Sandro Rosell

Rosell reveals that Barcelona will not break the bank to sign Fabregas from Arsenal…

Barcelona president Sandro Rosell has admitted that the club cannot pay Arsenal €50 million to sign Cesc Fabregas in the summer and he insists that they will not go overboard in their bid to recruit the midfielder.

The Spanish champions tried to sign the 23-year-old Spain international last summer but Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger refused to budge in his insistence that Fabregas stay at the Emirates.

Barcelona, though, have continued their quest to take Fabregas back to Catalunya as he is regarded by many as Xavi’s successor in the midfield for the Blaugrana, and earlier this month Goal.com exclusively revealed that the Gunners are ready to sell the player should an offer of €51.5m be made.

However, Barca president Rosell has now dismissed suggestions that they will pay the English giants that much money even though he admits that coach Pep Guardiola indeed wants to have the World Cup winner in his team.

"Barca are not disposed to pay €50m for Cesc Fabregas next summer," said Rosell in an interview with Catalan daily Sport. "That is decided and, although Guardiola demands this player, we will not pay this amount.

"It is impossible due to a simple reason. In football, prices are reduced each year and, if we offered Arsenal €40m for Cesc last summer, €50m is now impossible. If the coach demands Cesc we will negotiate with the Gunners, but at a correct limit and without madness and, if the operation is not possible, we will wait for other opportunities.”

Arsenal recently reached an agreement to sign talented 16-year-old Jon Miquel Toral Harper from Barcelona, in a manner reminiscent to that which had taken Fabregas away from Camp Nou in 2003. Rosell had hit out at the former English champions, branding their method of conducting such business as “a little immoral”.

Referring to that signing, Rosell admitted that relationships between the two clubs are fractured but has still kept doors open for further negotiations over Fabregas.

"Our relationship with Arsenal is not good,” he explained. “The Toral issue has not pleased us.

“The future of Cesc is in his hands and we could only negotiate with Arsenal if Guardiola insists. Only with any sale is it possible to increase the money for the negotiations."

Fabregas himself remains open to a return to his boyhood club but still has a four-year contract with Arsenal that sees him earn £110,000 every week.

Spain 2-1 Czech Republic: Record-Breaking David Villa Hands World Champions Comeback Win

The Barcelona striker put the Czechs to the sword with two second half goals...
A deadly double from David Villa handed Spain a 2-1 comeback win over Czech Republic in their Group I Euro 2012 Qualifier, and in the process sealed his place in history as his nation's all-time record goalscorer.

Having been level with Raul on 44 goals prior to kick off, the Barcelona striker hit two second half goals to ensure the points belonged to Vicente del Bosque's side, despite Jaroslav Plasil opening the scoring with a neat left-foot shot.

The modest ground in Granada played host to the occasion of Xavi's 100th cap, and he took his place in midfield as del Bosque once again opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation.

The Czechs however made it clear that their intention was to defend from the outset. They immediately piled men behind the ball, and while La Furia Roja enjoyed passing the ball around, they enjoyed little penetration in a tepid opening twenty minutes.

Suddenly though, the World Champions were behind, thanks to a sweet strike from Plasil. In a rare foray into Spanish territory, the former Osasuna wide man fired in a low shot that whizzed through the legs of Gerard Pique and in off Iker Casillas' post.

Spain were stunned, but through David Villa attempted to redress the balance instantly. He twice tested Petr Cech with good efforts that the keeper did well to respond to, and the Czechs were able to go in ahead at the break.

Del Bosque knew that changes were necessary. Fernando Torres replaced Xabi Alonso, and not long after Santi Cazorla came on for club colleague Joan Capdevila.

Chances began to arrive. Ramos headed wide before Iniesta struck in a powerful shot that went centimetres wide of Cech's post.

The breakthrough was inevitable, however, and eventually arrived in the form of Villa. Having been fed by Iniesta, he cut inside from the left and drilled a low shot past the dive of Cech to level the scores, and in doing so claim the mantle of Spain's all-time record goalscorer in his own right.

Minutes later, Villa made it international goal number 46. Iniesta was recklessly felled by Rezek inside the area, and 'El Guaje' confident converted the spot kick to hand the Iberian side the lead that their attacking play had, in the main, deserved.

The Czechs never looked like fighting back into the match, and although Torres had a late chance to add gloss the win, del Bosque's side will be content to escape a difficult situation with their 100 per cent record in Group I intact.

Barcelona's Lionel Messi: One Day I Will Win The World Cup With Argentina

Barcelona's Messi keen on transferring club success onto international stage as
he makes pledge to win the World Cup during his career...

Lionel Messi has stated his belief that he will one day win the World Cup with
Argentina.

The Barcelona ace is dreaming of success at international level having won every
accolade with the Camp Nou giants.

The double Ballon d'Or winner seems certain that he will win the FIFA trophy in
the future, as he prepares for the Albicelestes' friendly against the United
States this weekend.

"I know that I will win the World Cup as it is the trophy I really want," he told
TyC Sports.

"My wish is to win the World Cup. Thanks to God I have had the luck to win
trophies for my club. The only trophy missing is this one."

Comparisons with the legendary Diego Maradona are common, but Messi insists they
are different players, adding: "Diego is unique and there is no need to compare.
But, I do want to place my name in football history.

"If I have the luck to do what Diego did, then it will be good."

Barcelona's brilliant number 10 is currently first in the Castrol EDGE Rankings.

Xavi: Current Spain Team Is The Best In History

Xavi believes the World Champions are the best team in the country's history...

Spain international Xavi believes that the current national side is the best the country has ever produced, as he prepares to collect his 100th cap against the Czech Republic in tomorrow's Euro 2012 qualifier.

"I think so far this is the best Spain team in history and we have achieved recognition around the world," he told Marca.

"People believe in Spanish football now that we are world and European champions, whereas before they never used to as we never won anything."

Speaking on his century, he added: "I am happy for these 100 games and I feel I have the strength for plenty more.

"I am living an extraordinary moment with these players and I am happy to be here with Spain. I want to carry on playing for the national team for a long time."

Argentina's Sergio Batista: Lionel Messi Could Become The Greatest Footballer Of All Time

Batista believes that Messi could replace compatriot Maradona as the greatest footballer ever...

Argentina coach Sergio Batista believes that Lionel Messi is on course to become the best footballer in the history of the game.

The 23-year-old Barcelona forward is widely recognised as the best player in the world at the moment and has won the Ballon d'Or award for the past two years. Messi has already won the Champions League twice and the Club World Cup as well as domestic competitions in Spain.

Regular comparison has been made between Messi and his compatriot Diego Maradona, who won the World Cup in 1986 and two Serie A titles with Napoli. The controversial Argetnine is regarded by many as the game's best ever player.

Batista believes that Messi could surpass Maradona in stature and has been quoted by Fifa.com as saying: "Messi is on the way to becoming the best footballer in history.
"If one looks into the future, Lionel has everything. Maradona was one of the greatest, without a doubt. But Messi right now is the best in the world, and we have to take advantage of that."

Argentina will take on the USA in an international friendly on Saturday and Messi has been included in the squad, which makes US coach Bob Bradley's task difficult.

"Some players are just on the kind of level where you have huge admiration for them above anything else," enthused Bradley. "Messi is one of those. Would I pay to watch him? Without a doubt."

Barcelona's Lionel Messi Is Highest Paid Footballer, Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho Is Best Paid Manager

Messi and Mourinho top the rich-list among football personnel...

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi is the highest paid footballer in the world while Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho earns more than any other manager in the game, according to a survey by France Football magazine.

The Argentina international, who is widely recognised as the world's best footballer and has won the Ballon d'Or for the past two years, earns €31 million per annum. This amount that he garnered in 2011 came from his salary and publicity deals and is €3.5m more than what Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo earns.

Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney, a former team-mate of Ronaldo at Old Trafford, is third in the list with an annual income of €20.7m. US-based footballers, David Beckham of LA Galaxy and Thierry Henry of New York Red Bulls, are fifth and 11th in the list with earnings of €19m and €13.6m respectively.

In the manager's category, Mourinho heads the top-paid list as he earns €13.5m a year. The Portuguese coach, who won the Champions League as well as Serie A and the Coppa Italia with Italian giants Inter last season, was appointed as tactician at Madrid in the summer.

Barcelona's Pep Guardiola is second behind 'The Special One' with an annual income of €10.5m while Rafael Benitez, who is without a club at the moment after parting ways with the Nerazzurri in December 2010, earned €10.2m. England head coach Fabio Capello is fourth with a salary of €8.5m.

Last month Deloitte’s annual report on European football revenues was released in which it was revealed that Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona are the top earning clubs in the world with Premier League powerhouse Manchester United following them in third.

Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho Relishing London Return Against Tottenham In Champions League

Jose Mourinho reacts to drawing Tottenham and looks ahead to derby with Atletico Madrid.

Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has said that he is relishing a return to London as today's Champions League draw paired the Spanish giants with Tottenham.

The former Chelsea coach told the press: "I am very happy to be playing against Tottenham and to head back to London to play in an English stadium."

"I am not happy because the game will be easy, but because I will return to London. However, playing Tottenham or Shakhtar Donetsk, it would have been the same for us."

If Real Madrid beat the English side, and Barcelona get past Shakhtar, a Clasico semi-final will ensue, but the coach kept thoughts focused on tomorrow's game against Atletico Madrid.

"It would have been better if the derby was on Sunday," he said, while hinting Cristiano Ronaldo may not feature in the encounter.

"He played 70 minutes against Lyon, and it would have been better to play on Sunday. He won't be in the best condition, and it could be risky to play him.

"We have to consider he will be playing for Portugal, and so the medics will decide."

Mourinho also heaped praise on Karim Benzema, who is showing some good goalscoring form at the right time of the season.

"It's a big pleasure seeing Benzema playing as he is at the moment," continued the coach.

"As for Atletico, there are no favourites in the derby. We will give all we can against them and we will see what happens. We have to balance strength, motivation and quality."

Zlatan Ibrahimovic Ruled Out Of Derby!

Zlatan Ibrahimovic Ruled Out Of Derby Against Inter Due To Three-Match Ban, But Milan To Appeal.

Lega Serie A confirms Ibrahimovic will be banned for three games after sending-off in Milan - Bari clash...

Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic will miss next month's Serie A derby against Inter after being handed a three-match ban for his punch on Bari's Marco Rossi on Sunday.

Ibrahimovic lashed out at Rossi in the second half of the 1-1 draw, leading to his sending-off. He will now miss games against Palermo, Inter and Fiorentina, but the club are expected to appeal the decision.

A statement released by the Lega Serie A reads: "Three-match ban for Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Milan for irregular behaviour after having hit an opposition player in the abdomen, making him fall to the ground without injury consequences."

The Rossoneri will appeal with hope to have him back for the derby against Inter.

A statement on the club's official website reads:

"Milan communicates they will appeal the decision from the sports judge inflicted on Zlatan Ibrahimovic."

If their appeal fails, the Diavoli won't be able to call up the Swede until their clash with Sampdoria on April 17. Milan are currently five points clear of neighbours Inter at the top of Serie A.
 

Gunners Bow To Barca!

Barcelona 3-1 Arsenal (4-3 Agg.): Lionel Messi Leads Blaugrana Past 10-Man Gunners. Messi scored twice and Xavi once as Barcelona capitalised on Robin van Persie's red card.

A Lionel Messi-inspired Barcelona knocked Arsenal out of the Champions League for a second consecutive season as a 3-1 second leg win over the 10-man Gunners wrapped up a 4-3 aggregate victory.

Messi made the most of a Cesc Fabregas mistake in first half stoppages to break the deadlock, but a Segio Busquets own goal put Arsenal back ahead in the tie on aggregate. Robin van Persie was sent off after kicking the ball away when on a yellow card and Barca added further goals through Xavi and Messi's penalty.

The Blaugrana started as they meant to by dominating the early possession and Laurent Koscielny was booked for bringing down Pedro as he advanced towards goal. From the resulting free-kick, Wojciech Szczesny failed to gather cleanly and appeared to break a finger, and the Pole had to be replaced by Manuel Almunia.

The home domination continued, and the Gunners breathed a sigh of relief when Abou Diaby’s clear foul on Messi just inside the area went unpunished by the referee.

The almost inevitable breakthrough eventually came from a surprise source in the first half injury time. Cesc Fabregas tried to play a backheel close to his own box and saw the ball intercepted by Iniesta, who chipped a pass into the channel for Lionel Messi to lift over the advancing Almunia before volleying into the unguarded net.

Arsenal got a leveller against the run of play early in the second half to send them back ahead on aggregate when a corner from the left by Samir Nasri was missed at the near post, and when three Barcelona players went up together to clear, Sergio Busquets headed the ball into his own net.
But within minutes the Gunners were rocked by a red card for Robin van Persie. Having already been booked for throwing an arm at Dani Alves late in the first half, the Dutchman responded to an offside flag by sending in a right foot shot which referee Massimo Busacca considered a time-wasting act, and Arsenal were down to 10 men.

The weight of the pressure on the away side told when Xavi was allowed to walk straight through the left channel of their defence to beat Almunia, and within two minutes Barcelona were awarded a penalty when Koscielny brought down Pedro. Lionel Messi stepped up to fire in his sixth goal in two home games against the Gunners and put Barca 4-3 up on aggregate.

Though Barca had further chances through Ibrahim Afellay and Dani Alves, Arsenal could have won the tie when Nicklas Bendtner went through the middle, but he failed to get a shot away before Victor Valdes and Busquets foiled the danger.

The win sends Barcelona into the quarter-finals as they continue their assault on a second treble in three years, while Arsenal's potential quadruple has been reduced to a two-pronged attack on the Premier League and FA Cup.