Greg Ptolomey believes that Liverpool should be able to compensate for the loss of their departed playmaker।
Real Madrid are in the process of adding what they feel is the final piece of an elaborate and expensive summer puzzle, signing deep-lying playmaker Xabi Alonso in a €34 million deal. In doing so, they could be taking a key element away form Liverpool by swooping for their long-unsettled dark horse.The story behind Alonso finally handing in a transfer request and booking a one-way ticket to Madrid, despite have a crucial role to play in Liverpool's 'to be continued' domestic resurgence, is a bitter one.The inside scoop appears to be thus: the relationship between Alonso and Anfield gaffer Rafael Benitez first soured when the boss fell out with former assistant Paco Ayestaran, who was axed upon embracing Jose Mourinho at the height of Rafa's feud with the ex-Chelsea tactician.Ayestaran and Alonso were reportedly very close, and in the aftermath Benitez saw Alonso's support of the assistant as a further sign of disloyalty. Then came the infamous scenario wherein Alonso decided to attend the birth of his son rather than be with the Reds as they faced Inter in the Champions League, further infuriating Rafa, who had already been sending hints to the midfielder suggesting that he wanted him out.Strike three, of course, was Liverpool's botched pursuit of Gareth Barry, and although time and the highs of last season have served to heal some of the damage between player and manager, the wounds would appear to have run too deep.That's not to say that Xabi won't take many fond memories away from Merseyside. He was able to blossom with the club, whilst adding technical quality to what was a rough-and-ready side when he joined. He won the Champions League and the European Super Cup in 2005, and playing in England certainly didn't stop him from achieving international success, winning Euro 2008 with Spain.There's Something About XabiSo how much will Liverpool really miss Xabi? He appears cold and calculating on and off the field; you'll rarely get a smile out of him, much less an inspirational team-talk. However, he's said to be warmer than he appears on the surface around his team-mates, yet from that point of view the Reds surely aren't losing a massive leadership presence.Still, the guy must have something about him beyond raw football ability, as a great many footballers have all the talent in the world, yet lack the other great intangibles needed to lead a team – and Xabi has done that even without appearing to have the personality to do so. Last season, the bestubbled maestro had a big hand in helping the Reds to cruise without Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres during their periods of injury. Sky Sports further report that 'Pool have won 67 games with Alonso in the side and just 46 without.In terms of a replacement, though, the man under the microscope is Roma's Alberto Aquilani. He is another player blessed with natural footballing attributes, but his mentality has come under even more scrutiny than Alonso's, and that's even before worrying about his perma-crock label. The positives are obvious, though: Benitez should be able to mold him without friction as he adjusts to England; he's an unknown quantity to the rest of the 'Big Four', who know the ins-and-outs of Alonso's game.Rafa isn't daft, of course – he'll know that Aquilani isn't going to step in as a ready-made replacement for Alonso any more than Antonio Valencia is going to win the Ballon d'Or at Manchester United. If he's missing a trick, it's perhaps that he could have replaced Alonso with a much more obvious personality, and given his side one more big, bold shunt in the direction of the Premier League crown. Gerrard, Jamie Carragher, Javier Mascherano and Fernando Torres all plot the Reds' course in their own way, but the Premier League trophy still had the wrong red ribbons on it last term.Gareth Barry, of course, may just have been the man for the job – but then again it would be naive to claim that Liverpool would win the title with Barry in place of Alonso. Short of Cesc Fabregas – and probably not even then – that like-for-like switcheroo perhaps wouldn't be enough.Luckily, Xabi's departure and the timely cash injection could nudge Benitez outside the box, and the likes of Valencia's David Silva or Aston Villa's Ashley Young could re-enter his thoughts. Someone as versatile as Silva would be preferable, it must be said: his comfort on the ball and willingness to track back would fill more holes than a winger such as Young. Such an X-factor, following the exciting addition of Glen Johnson as a high-octane right-back, could potentially make this into a championship winning side.Rafa's bow remains impressive, and lets not forget that this is a team who came second in the Premier League, despite having some set-backs that would have damaged lesser teams further. After a half-dozen games, Xabi's void may be evident and questions might be asked. However, if his departure gives Rafa the impetus to round off his team and make them a more complete attacking force, especially at home, then surely the fans will be able to close a complicated chapter quickly.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Liverpool Are No Threat To Manchester United
Fergie reckons the Reds will be hard pressed to match last term's exploits, let alone better them।
After last season saw Liverpool mount their first serious challenge for the Premier League title this decade, some are backing them to go a step further in the 2009-10 edition.Sir Alex Ferguson is not one of those people. The Manchester United boss held off Rafael Benitez's Reds down the stretch last term to claim a third straight PL crown, and he doubts that the Merseysiders will pose any more of a threat this time around."It will be hard for them to match last season, let alone improve on it. Other teams will know more about them," Ferguson told The Sun."Liverpool had probably their best season for 20 years and still finished four points adrift."Some observers have begun leaning towards the Scot's way of thinking now that 'Pool have confirmed that Xabi Alonso, arguably their star man last season, is on his way to Real Madrid.However, Ferguson is not convinced that the Spanish midfielder's departure will have much of an effect either way, as he is of the opinion that the Scousers' greatest weapons lie further afield."The thrust of their team is all about [Steven] Gerrard and [Fernando] Torres," he added.Still, the question remains: who will be Man United's most dangerous rivals in 2009-10? Ferguson believes the answer is to be found in west London."It has to be Chelsea as the main threat. [Carlo] Ancelotti will change how they play," he said."They will play the Milan way. It brought him two European Cups - it should have been three, because they should never have lost to Liverpool. So why should he change?"
After last season saw Liverpool mount their first serious challenge for the Premier League title this decade, some are backing them to go a step further in the 2009-10 edition.Sir Alex Ferguson is not one of those people. The Manchester United boss held off Rafael Benitez's Reds down the stretch last term to claim a third straight PL crown, and he doubts that the Merseysiders will pose any more of a threat this time around."It will be hard for them to match last season, let alone improve on it. Other teams will know more about them," Ferguson told The Sun."Liverpool had probably their best season for 20 years and still finished four points adrift."Some observers have begun leaning towards the Scot's way of thinking now that 'Pool have confirmed that Xabi Alonso, arguably their star man last season, is on his way to Real Madrid.However, Ferguson is not convinced that the Spanish midfielder's departure will have much of an effect either way, as he is of the opinion that the Scousers' greatest weapons lie further afield."The thrust of their team is all about [Steven] Gerrard and [Fernando] Torres," he added.Still, the question remains: who will be Man United's most dangerous rivals in 2009-10? Ferguson believes the answer is to be found in west London."It has to be Chelsea as the main threat. [Carlo] Ancelotti will change how they play," he said."They will play the Milan way. It brought him two European Cups - it should have been three, because they should never have lost to Liverpool. So why should he change?"
Chelsea Ready To Increase Offer For Milan's Pirlo
Carlo Ancelotti is showing no signs of ending his pursuit for one of his former players, and is ready to accede to the Rossoneri's demands।
Another of the summer's long-running transfer sagas has taken another twist as reports suggest that Chelsea will increase their offer for Andrea Pirlo, while Milan appear to have taken a step towards lining up his replacement.According to English tabloid The Daily Mirror, Chelsea are ready to increase their first offer of €9.5 million plus Claudio Pizarro to €11.8m plus the South American.This second offer is believed to be more acceptable to Milan's directors, who are intending to use Pizarro as a bargaining chip of their own in a deal for Sevilla's Luis Fabiano.The Rossoneri will still require a replacement for Pirlo, should he make the move to London, and reports are suggesting that Leonardo is lining up Mahamadou Diarra. The Real Madrid midfielder missed much of last season through injury, but could find his place under threat if Xabi Alonso completes his move to the Spanish capital.
Another of the summer's long-running transfer sagas has taken another twist as reports suggest that Chelsea will increase their offer for Andrea Pirlo, while Milan appear to have taken a step towards lining up his replacement.According to English tabloid The Daily Mirror, Chelsea are ready to increase their first offer of €9.5 million plus Claudio Pizarro to €11.8m plus the South American.This second offer is believed to be more acceptable to Milan's directors, who are intending to use Pizarro as a bargaining chip of their own in a deal for Sevilla's Luis Fabiano.The Rossoneri will still require a replacement for Pirlo, should he make the move to London, and reports are suggesting that Leonardo is lining up Mahamadou Diarra. The Real Madrid midfielder missed much of last season through injury, but could find his place under threat if Xabi Alonso completes his move to the Spanish capital.
Monday, August 3, 2009
ROSICKY REFUTES TOURE CLAIMS
Tomas Rosicky insists Arsenal still have all their "great players" and are ready to mount a serious assault on the Premier League title.
The Gunners continued their impressive pre-season build-up, which now stretches to six unbeaten games, with a 3-0 win over Scottish champions Rangers to lift the Emirates Cup.
Kolo Toure, who joined Manchester City following seven years at Arsenal, claims his old club have lost all of their leaders, which was one of the reasons he decided to leave.
Czech international Rosicky has returned to action following 18 months out with a series of niggling injuries, which along with the match fitness of Croatia forward Eduardo has boosted Arsene Wenger's forward options following the summer departure of striker Emmanuel Adebayor, also to City.
Rosicky is adamant Arsenal still have plenty of strength in depth.
"I don't think the best players have left," declared Rosicky, signed from Borussia Dortmund in July 2006.
"We have still got [Andrey] Arshavin, [Cesc] Fabregas and they are still great players.
"I don't see it this way. I don't see why we should be afraid of anyone.
"I see the potential and think we need to focus on what we have got."
Rosicky added: "We have got plenty of options and that is why I feel we will be stronger than last season - because the boss will have more options.
"We know what we have to do better and we are not blind. I can see the positives.
"I hope we can achieve something together and we will fight for trophies this year.
"If the boss decides to buy someone that is always good and will give us another option - but I think even if he doesn't, we have plenty of options."
Wenger has urged caution on Rosicky's recovery programme, and is likely to ease the Czech midfielder back into regular action.
But having spent so long on the sidelines, the 28-year-old is glad to be involved once more.
"It is a great feeling to be back and playing again at this stadium because it has been too long for me," said Rosicky, who had last played at the Emirates in an FA Cup tie against Newcastle during late January 2008.
"It was frustrating (being injured), but I don't want to talk about that anymore.
"I am back and that is the most important thing for me."
The Gunners continued their impressive pre-season build-up, which now stretches to six unbeaten games, with a 3-0 win over Scottish champions Rangers to lift the Emirates Cup.
Kolo Toure, who joined Manchester City following seven years at Arsenal, claims his old club have lost all of their leaders, which was one of the reasons he decided to leave.
Czech international Rosicky has returned to action following 18 months out with a series of niggling injuries, which along with the match fitness of Croatia forward Eduardo has boosted Arsene Wenger's forward options following the summer departure of striker Emmanuel Adebayor, also to City.
Rosicky is adamant Arsenal still have plenty of strength in depth.
"I don't think the best players have left," declared Rosicky, signed from Borussia Dortmund in July 2006.
"We have still got [Andrey] Arshavin, [Cesc] Fabregas and they are still great players.
"I don't see it this way. I don't see why we should be afraid of anyone.
"I see the potential and think we need to focus on what we have got."
Rosicky added: "We have got plenty of options and that is why I feel we will be stronger than last season - because the boss will have more options.
"We know what we have to do better and we are not blind. I can see the positives.
"I hope we can achieve something together and we will fight for trophies this year.
"If the boss decides to buy someone that is always good and will give us another option - but I think even if he doesn't, we have plenty of options."
Wenger has urged caution on Rosicky's recovery programme, and is likely to ease the Czech midfielder back into regular action.
But having spent so long on the sidelines, the 28-year-old is glad to be involved once more.
"It is a great feeling to be back and playing again at this stadium because it has been too long for me," said Rosicky, who had last played at the Emirates in an FA Cup tie against Newcastle during late January 2008.
"It was frustrating (being injured), but I don't want to talk about that anymore.
"I am back and that is the most important thing for me."
Can Jack Wilshere & Eduardo da Silva Save Arsenal's Summer?
The Emirates Cup may only be a pre-season tournament, but it still shed light on some of the mystery surrounding the Gunners' quest for major honours।
It won't have been top of any Arsenal fan's priority's this summer, but some heart can be taken from them having recaptured the Emirates Cup.
Having raced to an inaugural win in the competition in 2007, it proved to set something of a precedent for the manner in which the Gunners would then approach the beginning to that season - their first without Thierry Henry - as they raced to the top of the Premier League in sensational style.
The second time around - this time last year - they finished third, losing to Juventus and an Adebayor penalty seeing them past Real Madrid. At the time, there wasn't a lot to take from it, but it proved that things wouldn't get a lot better for the Wenger boys for the remainder of the season, as even their journey to the Champions League semi-finals was hardly littered with major challenges that yielded any kind of great performances.
It is now that Arsene Wenger and his side are under criticism of a level previously reserved for George Graham, Francis Jeffers and Ashley Cole - only on a really good day.
The man that made Arsenal great is, for whatever reasons, slowly seeing the quality of his side regress to the point that, in relative terms to the competition, he's coming somewhere close to leaving them as he found them.
Selling star players to their most direct league rivals, Manchester City, has unearthed unease in even some of the most usually reassured followers of all things Arsene. They, like the rest of us, are waiting for a sign from somewhere that the Frenchman has method to his madness beyond trying to put the club's bank balance back in black, method that may actually deliver major success on the pitch, as is the bottom line for any fan of any club.
Enter Jack Wilshere. The media love a good youngster - a great one is just mind-blowing. We're not just looking at a player with an outstanding talent like Leo Messi, nor one of outstanding achievements like Raul, nor incredible confidence like Wayne Rooney.
He has immense talent, clearly isn't short on confidence and at 17, is a better playmaker than even Cesc Fabregas was at that age. Switch the names and numbers on their shirts and you would be forgiven for thinking the little man from Stevenage came straight out of the world's finest youth academy in Catalunya.
And that's what makes Wilshere so special: this is a player that Gooners really can call their own, with no partial credit going to Barcelona or French Africa - he is, as they say, Arsenal through and through.
It is the game awareness and intelligence that separates him from the vast majority of every other type of wonderkid on the block. Overindulgent self-promotion has often led to the English media shooting themselves in the foot - but sometimes, a sure thing is just a sure thing.
One sign wasn't enough. The Emirates Cup also delivered a ringing endorsement that Eduardo da Silva is still one of the best finishers in the business. It was just one goal, but what a goal it was. After a lay-off like his, even a pre-season friendly can feel like your own personal Champions League final.
The problems Arsenal still face are the same as ever. Cesc looked free-reigning and relentless, despite not having his Flamini, his Lass Diarra, his Gilberto Silva - but this was against an Atletico Madrid side who are famed for playing almost entirely without a midfield, and Rangers, who had no intention of ever trying to keep the ball for any kind of extended period.
Cesc will face restriction in stiff competition within this current setup, and Wenger cannot afford to marginalise his captain this campaign if he wants to keep him from wearing the Blaugrana by this time next year.
Andrei Arshavin, named player of the two-day tournament and perhaps recognized as Arsenal's only other consistently and proven world class player, has already voiced his feeling of inadequacy when shoe-horned into the side as a winger. He and Robin van Persie perform best in the same position, and it is the Dutchman, as Wenger's creation, and one of the few who doesn't look like abandoning the Gunners for a bigger club, that gets precedence.
At the back, it was all Rangers couldn't do to fall into the net with the ball - it was as damning an indictment of their abilities in attack as Arsenal's in defense. This is still a team not geared to defend as a team with the same verve and calculation with which they attack.
Pure and simply, Arsenal's most outstanding talents, while captivating testament to what could be at the Emirates this season, aren't quite cornerstones around which Wenger can necessarily build his team.
Eduardo is unlikely to be able to play twice a week for an extended period without suffering an injury - certainly not in the near future. Jack Wilshere must at least wait for his body to catch up with his mind before he too can play regularly without suffering long-term damage as a result.
Cesc, while making a great central figure of the team, cannot reach anything resembling his full potential without the right partner in midfield, and then there's Arshavin and Van Persie getting in each other's way.
No matter what Wenger says, Arsenal need more, and he knows it.
Resurrecting Patrick Vieira's career may give the Gunners more leadership, but more significantly, would impinge upon the responsibilities and status of their recently appointed captain. Beyond that, Vieira's greatness is behind him and the chances of him offering an ever-presence in Arsenal's midfield is minimal.
Experience could prove far more useful in front of goal. If Klaas-Jan Huntelaar is too big a name and price-tag, then what's to stop the Gunners bidding for an old head to relieve the pressure on Eduardo to deliver all the goals? Neither Walcott nor Vela - nor Van Persie, for that matter - are strikers in the most literal sense, and Nicklas Bendtner doesn't seem to have convinced anyone of his abilities, though he has a prolific track record as a substitute.
Add to that the centre midfielder and defender that every fan has been craving for the past year and you have a team worthy of any piece of silverware on offer.
Go without, continue as also-rans, year after year disillusioning the star talents who then depart for a bigger club. The fact so many have failed in their attempt to go on to better things should be no source of comfort to any Gunner, for the fact is, neither do Arsenal - it is the no-win situation that has plagued the club since the days they were known as ‘Invincible’.
Cristiano Ronaldo Knee Given All Clear By Real Madrid
To ensure there was no lasting damage, Los Merengues' medics have been extra careful।
Real Madrid's club doctors have spent the weekend ensuring that there has been no lasting damage to Cristiano Ronaldo's knee after the tackle he received during the game against Juventus.
The Spanish giants were keen to make sure that their €94million investment had not suffered anything other than severe bruising after a challenge from Zdenek Grygera.
In the last few minutes of the Peace Cup semi final in Seville, the Czech defender leapt into a challenge with Ronaldo and planted his studs into the forward's right knee.
It was a tackle worthy of a red card and the Portuguese star looked to be in considerable pain, but he returned to the pitch after lengthy treatment.
Despite that, Madrid doctors wanted to ensure that there were no underlying problems that could worsen and have run a series of tests to determine that nothing is wrong.
Last summer, Wesley Sneijder joined the club and in pre-season he snapped a ligament in his knee after a high tackle by Abou Diaby in the Emirates Cup.
Can Man City's Tactical Spending Usurp Arsenal?
First Emmanuel Adebayor, now Kolo Toure... Goal।com's Alan Dawson examines the nature of Mark Hughes' spending।
When the influx of multi-millions began to pour in at Eastlands, commentators across the counties claimed that Manchester City would be adopt the successful transfer policy initially utilized by fiscal rivals Chelsea. For an Adrian Mutu, there was a Robinho... for a Geremi there was a Nigel de Jong, and for a Wayne Bridge there was a, well... a Wayne Bridge. Though the Blues were seen to swipe the booty that other members of the Premier League's established top-four had set their studious sights upon, the Citizens have instead decided to weaken their main rivals. Tactical spending has been rife.
Whether you are swatting up on Sun Tzu's 'The Art of War', or obsessing over an epic late-night online effort in 'World of Warcraft', it can generally be agreed that there are few greater ways to enhance your own position than by diluting the assets of your enemies.
Take Aston Villa. Last season's sixth-ranked team, who nearly ousted Arsenal for a Champions League qualification spot, and had it not been for fatigue sustained by Martin O'Neill's troops, the Villans could have perhaps out-gunned Arsene Wenger's army when the season concluded.
The Midlanders will have been classed as a top-six rival of City's, and although Gareth Barry arguably had one foot firmly pushed through the exit gates at Villa Park, Mark Hughes was swift to nab him before Liverpool, or indeed Arsenal। Neither side even had time to think about replacing Xavi Alonso, or locating an able partner for the patient Francesc Fabregas. Villa were weakened, while two of the four founding members of the monopolized top four spots lost out on a potential acquisition.
Arsenal themselves have already seen Emmanuel Adebayor leave without a customary salute, the striker joining the bulging barracks overseen by Hughes at City. Despite the Togolese targetman's refusal to remedy his languid and lethargic label, he was still the north London clique's most potent weapon - a number of the division's defenders have spoken out in the past citing 'Manu's' unpredictability as the fore-running attribute that makes him one of the most problematic players to mark. The N5 outfit lose their spearheading striker, while City can add him to an attacking artillery that already boasts Roque Santa Cruz, Robinho, Craig Bellamy and Carlos Tevez.Kolo Toure, should the £16 million deal be successfully pushed through, does not provide as great a loss as the one suffered from a 'Sheyi'-less side. Losing the last remaining regular of the unbeatable 'Invincibles' can arguably be a psychological blow, despite the reality that the Ivorian was no longer deemed a first choice starter. Johan Djourou struck up a strong partnership with the experienced William Gallas, while the signing of Thomas Vermaelen will have pushed Toure further down the pecking order. An interesting question has now arisen... by the week's end, City could have given Arsenal a £40m cash-boost. If Arsene Wenger is active in the transfer market, which he surely must be if he is to avoid a second-successive nail-biting fourth-place clinching campaign, then the Frenchman can counteract the loss of his two influential Africans with a couple of top drawer recruits, both at the expense of a side who, for all of the nay-saying, must be finally taken seriously as an indubitable up-setter of top-of-the-table monotony.
When the influx of multi-millions began to pour in at Eastlands, commentators across the counties claimed that Manchester City would be adopt the successful transfer policy initially utilized by fiscal rivals Chelsea. For an Adrian Mutu, there was a Robinho... for a Geremi there was a Nigel de Jong, and for a Wayne Bridge there was a, well... a Wayne Bridge. Though the Blues were seen to swipe the booty that other members of the Premier League's established top-four had set their studious sights upon, the Citizens have instead decided to weaken their main rivals. Tactical spending has been rife.
Whether you are swatting up on Sun Tzu's 'The Art of War', or obsessing over an epic late-night online effort in 'World of Warcraft', it can generally be agreed that there are few greater ways to enhance your own position than by diluting the assets of your enemies.
Take Aston Villa. Last season's sixth-ranked team, who nearly ousted Arsenal for a Champions League qualification spot, and had it not been for fatigue sustained by Martin O'Neill's troops, the Villans could have perhaps out-gunned Arsene Wenger's army when the season concluded.
The Midlanders will have been classed as a top-six rival of City's, and although Gareth Barry arguably had one foot firmly pushed through the exit gates at Villa Park, Mark Hughes was swift to nab him before Liverpool, or indeed Arsenal। Neither side even had time to think about replacing Xavi Alonso, or locating an able partner for the patient Francesc Fabregas. Villa were weakened, while two of the four founding members of the monopolized top four spots lost out on a potential acquisition.
Arsenal themselves have already seen Emmanuel Adebayor leave without a customary salute, the striker joining the bulging barracks overseen by Hughes at City. Despite the Togolese targetman's refusal to remedy his languid and lethargic label, he was still the north London clique's most potent weapon - a number of the division's defenders have spoken out in the past citing 'Manu's' unpredictability as the fore-running attribute that makes him one of the most problematic players to mark. The N5 outfit lose their spearheading striker, while City can add him to an attacking artillery that already boasts Roque Santa Cruz, Robinho, Craig Bellamy and Carlos Tevez.Kolo Toure, should the £16 million deal be successfully pushed through, does not provide as great a loss as the one suffered from a 'Sheyi'-less side. Losing the last remaining regular of the unbeatable 'Invincibles' can arguably be a psychological blow, despite the reality that the Ivorian was no longer deemed a first choice starter. Johan Djourou struck up a strong partnership with the experienced William Gallas, while the signing of Thomas Vermaelen will have pushed Toure further down the pecking order. An interesting question has now arisen... by the week's end, City could have given Arsenal a £40m cash-boost. If Arsene Wenger is active in the transfer market, which he surely must be if he is to avoid a second-successive nail-biting fourth-place clinching campaign, then the Frenchman can counteract the loss of his two influential Africans with a couple of top drawer recruits, both at the expense of a side who, for all of the nay-saying, must be finally taken seriously as an indubitable up-setter of top-of-the-table monotony.
Messi Set To Become Barcelona's Best Paid Star
Barcelona are keen to ensure that their best player remains their best paid player too।
Lionel Messi is set to be handed a golden contract that will see him become the highest paid player at Barcelona, with a buy-out clause of €300million, according to a report.
The Argentinian ace will sit down and discuss the new deal when the squad return from the United States, as the Catalan giants want him to remain as their top earner.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic's arrival saw Messi overtaken, with the Swede on €9million-a-year basic salary, but Barcelona have agreed to offer their homegrown star new terms.
Messi will be offered €9.5million-per-season and see his buy-out clause doubled to €300million, €50million more than Ibrahimovic's.
Barca will also offer the player €500,000 in bonuses, with more incentives added on, to ensure that he not attracted by the riches that may be on offer at other major European clubs.
Jorge Messi, Leo's father and agent, has already held informal discussions about the deal, and those will be made concrete later this month.
The player himself has always stated that he is committed to the club that signed him as a youngster and provided the medical treatment he required to grow.
Lionel Messi is set to be handed a golden contract that will see him become the highest paid player at Barcelona, with a buy-out clause of €300million, according to a report.
The Argentinian ace will sit down and discuss the new deal when the squad return from the United States, as the Catalan giants want him to remain as their top earner.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic's arrival saw Messi overtaken, with the Swede on €9million-a-year basic salary, but Barcelona have agreed to offer their homegrown star new terms.
Messi will be offered €9.5million-per-season and see his buy-out clause doubled to €300million, €50million more than Ibrahimovic's.
Barca will also offer the player €500,000 in bonuses, with more incentives added on, to ensure that he not attracted by the riches that may be on offer at other major European clubs.
Jorge Messi, Leo's father and agent, has already held informal discussions about the deal, and those will be made concrete later this month.
The player himself has always stated that he is committed to the club that signed him as a youngster and provided the medical treatment he required to grow.
Arsenal's Nasri Remains In Good Spirits Despite Fibula Fracture
The French international will begin rehabilitation in September।
Former Marseille midfielder Samir Nasri, 22, suffered an injury in training recently when he collided with fellow Frenchman Abou Diaby, but Nasri has today stated his relief that the straightforward fracture he sustained was not as worse as initially feared.
He informed L'Equipe: "I am happy I only suffered a simple fibula fracture.
"Moreover, it is better for it to happen now rather than in the middle of the season.
"Now I just need to be patient. I have about three weeks of immobility before starting rehabilitation early in September."
Nasri's mobility and vision could prove difficult to replace in Arsene Wenger's first XI, although the Alsatian could be tempted to offer burgeoning prospect Jack Wilshere further first team tests, as the young Englishman wowed crowds at the Emirates Cup at the weekend.
Nasri scored seven goals last season.
Former Marseille midfielder Samir Nasri, 22, suffered an injury in training recently when he collided with fellow Frenchman Abou Diaby, but Nasri has today stated his relief that the straightforward fracture he sustained was not as worse as initially feared.
He informed L'Equipe: "I am happy I only suffered a simple fibula fracture.
"Moreover, it is better for it to happen now rather than in the middle of the season.
"Now I just need to be patient. I have about three weeks of immobility before starting rehabilitation early in September."
Nasri's mobility and vision could prove difficult to replace in Arsene Wenger's first XI, although the Alsatian could be tempted to offer burgeoning prospect Jack Wilshere further first team tests, as the young Englishman wowed crowds at the Emirates Cup at the weekend.
Nasri scored seven goals last season.
Bacary Sagna: Tomas Rosicky Can Make The Difference For Arsenal
The French defender happy to see the Czech back in एक्शन।
The Emirates Cup brought many positives for Arsenal, not least the return to the Emirates Stadium for Tomas Rosicky, and his team-mate Bacary Sagna was delighted to see him back in action.
“I'm very, very happy for him,” the defender told Arsenal's official website.
“He did well as well and it has been hard for him. He has had a tough time so he deserves his chance to come back.
"I can't imagine how it must have been for him to be out for so long. It shows that he has a strong character and we will need that."
Assessing his team-mate's qualities, Sagna added, “He will bring some new power and a different style of game. I think Tomas is a very technical player in the middle of the park and I am sure he can make a difference.”
“He is one of our experienced players and that will help us as well,” he added. “We will need Tomas like we will need everyone. With Samir [Nasri] out injured he has the potential to play and I am sure he will do it well."
The Emirates Cup brought many positives for Arsenal, not least the return to the Emirates Stadium for Tomas Rosicky, and his team-mate Bacary Sagna was delighted to see him back in action.
“I'm very, very happy for him,” the defender told Arsenal's official website.
“He did well as well and it has been hard for him. He has had a tough time so he deserves his chance to come back.
"I can't imagine how it must have been for him to be out for so long. It shows that he has a strong character and we will need that."
Assessing his team-mate's qualities, Sagna added, “He will bring some new power and a different style of game. I think Tomas is a very technical player in the middle of the park and I am sure he can make a difference.”
“He is one of our experienced players and that will help us as well,” he added. “We will need Tomas like we will need everyone. With Samir [Nasri] out injured he has the potential to play and I am sure he will do it well."
Chelsea Plan £100m Raid For Ribery, Pirlo & Aguero
The Blues could be set to make a real splash in the summer transfer market।
Chelsea are planning to submit bids for Bayern Munich's Frank Ribery and Athletico Madrid's Sergio Aguero, according to a report in The Daily Mail.
Roman Abramovich is set to make a signal of the club's intent following club captain John Terry seeking assurances from the Chelsea hierarchy that the club would seek to bolster their ranks.
The report states that manager Carlo Ancelotti wants Milan's Andrea Pirlo to play in the holding midfield role in his diamond formation, with a fee of £12m plus Claudio Pizarro being mooted as possibly enough to persuade the Italian giants to do business.
Chelsea are then set to battle it out with Manchester United for the signature of Aguero, who is rated at £45m by his current club, Athletico Madrid. It is claimed Aguero was seeking wages of £200k a week to move to the Premier League, and this had initially cooled Chelsea's interest.
Meanwhile, the club are also planning to offer more than £40m to tempt Ribery to Stamford Bridge, and believe Bayern Munich will be tempted into selling as the transfer deadline approaches. Bayern had previously insisted Ribery would see his contract out at the club.
Chelsea are planning to submit bids for Bayern Munich's Frank Ribery and Athletico Madrid's Sergio Aguero, according to a report in The Daily Mail.
Roman Abramovich is set to make a signal of the club's intent following club captain John Terry seeking assurances from the Chelsea hierarchy that the club would seek to bolster their ranks.
The report states that manager Carlo Ancelotti wants Milan's Andrea Pirlo to play in the holding midfield role in his diamond formation, with a fee of £12m plus Claudio Pizarro being mooted as possibly enough to persuade the Italian giants to do business.
Chelsea are then set to battle it out with Manchester United for the signature of Aguero, who is rated at £45m by his current club, Athletico Madrid. It is claimed Aguero was seeking wages of £200k a week to move to the Premier League, and this had initially cooled Chelsea's interest.
Meanwhile, the club are also planning to offer more than £40m to tempt Ribery to Stamford Bridge, and believe Bayern Munich will be tempted into selling as the transfer deadline approaches. Bayern had previously insisted Ribery would see his contract out at the club.
Real Madrid Insure Cristiano Ronaldo's Legs For €100m
The Spanish giants have safeguarded their prized asset by taking out insurance on his famous pins।
Real Madrid have protected themselves in the event of Cristiano Ronaldo suffering a serious injury by insuring the Portuguese superstars’ legs for the grandiose sum of €100m.
Sunday newspaper The World reports that the former Manchester United man, who became a record signing following his €94m switch to the Bernabeu, has been given unique treatment in keeping with his importance to the side, and that Los Blancos acted quickly to ensure that they would be compensated in the event of Ronaldo being unable to play.
The 24-year old recently picked up a knock and the injury to his knee was quickly assessed by club doctors, who gave the player the all-clear.
Ronaldo’s purchase came as part of an unprecedented summer of spending by the Spanish club, which has also included the acquisitions of Kaka, Karim Benzema and Raul Albiol.
However, it has been the arrival of Ronaldo that has been most celebrated by the clubs’ followers, and Los Merengues have now acted to ensure their investment is suitably protected.
Lets just hope that Kaka's legs don't feel overlooked.
Real Madrid have protected themselves in the event of Cristiano Ronaldo suffering a serious injury by insuring the Portuguese superstars’ legs for the grandiose sum of €100m.
Sunday newspaper The World reports that the former Manchester United man, who became a record signing following his €94m switch to the Bernabeu, has been given unique treatment in keeping with his importance to the side, and that Los Blancos acted quickly to ensure that they would be compensated in the event of Ronaldo being unable to play.
The 24-year old recently picked up a knock and the injury to his knee was quickly assessed by club doctors, who gave the player the all-clear.
Ronaldo’s purchase came as part of an unprecedented summer of spending by the Spanish club, which has also included the acquisitions of Kaka, Karim Benzema and Raul Albiol.
However, it has been the arrival of Ronaldo that has been most celebrated by the clubs’ followers, and Los Merengues have now acted to ensure their investment is suitably protected.
Lets just hope that Kaka's legs don't feel overlooked.
Player Ratings: Arsenal 3-0 Rangers
The Gunners claimed the Emirates Cup, after a comfortable victory over Rangers। Goal.com rates the performers.
ARSENALAlmunia: 6 – Had very little to do but saved well on the rare occasions he was called upon. Eboue: 6 – Defensively untroubled, although offered little as an attacking force despite Arsenal’s dominance.Silvestre: 6.5 – Cruised through the first half but had more to do after the break. Made an important block on a Mendes cross.Gallas: 6.5 - Read the game well and enjoyed a very comfortable 45 minutes.Clichy: 7 – Had few problems defensively and set up Eduardo for a decent shot after beating Whittaker. Wilshere: 8.5 - Rewarded with a start after dazzling display against Atletico Madrid and had another very impressive game today. Scored two and only a tip over from McGregor denied him a hat-trick. Song: 6.5 - Comfortably protected the back four and didn’t allow Rangers a sniff. Made an excellent block just after the break to deny a certain goal, but a slip allowed Naismith a clear shot on goal. Fabregas: 7 – The skipper had a busy afternoon. He set up the opener and looked lively throughout. Arshavin: 7 - Involved in the second goal and had some great moments, particularly a brilliant first time pass to Eduardo. Merida: 7 - Found lots of space and combined well with Eduardo. Teed up the striker for the second goal and provided him with other chances. Not afraid to shoot.Eduardo: 7.5 - Clinical finish for the second and had chances to double his tally but couldn’t beat McGregor again. SubstitutesTraore: 6.5 - Effortlessly replaced Clichy.Denilson: 6 - Thrashed a shot into row Z. Bendtner: 6 – Quiet showing. Sanchez Watt: 6.5 - Good persistence paid off to help set up the third goal. Ramsey: 6.5 - Accurate cross for Wilshere to grab the third. Rosicky: n/aRANGERSMcGregor: 6.5 - Might have done better for the opener, which he seemed to get a touch on. No chance with the second but pulled off a good save from Wilshere before the break. Whittaker: 5.5 - Had a difficult afternoon with Arshavin and Clichy giving him plenty of problems. Bougherra: 5 - At fault for the third goal by trying, and failing, to shepherd the ball out of play. Weir: 6 - The 39-year-old had his hands full all afternoon but kept going. Great block to deny Fabregas, just after the hour mark. Papac: 5.5 – Another player who struggled at times against the Gunners' flowing football.Thompson: 5 - Guilty of losing possession on more than one occasion, which handed Arsenal the attacking initiative and kept Rangers on the back foot. Naismith: 6.5 – Improved as the game wore on and was involved in most of Rangers' best moves. Should have scored on the hour mark but shot straight at Almunia. Mendes: 6.5 – Was forced deep in the first half and worked hard tracking back. More adventurous after the break and helped drive Rangers forward.Davis: 7 – Rangers’ main supply line. A willing runner and supplied decent delivery, set up Naismith with a super ball that should have led to a goal. Beasley: 5 - A willing runner down the left but found it difficult going and created little. Lafferty: 5 - Up front on his own, starved of service and barely saw the ball, in truth. SubstitutesNovo: 6.5 - Added pace, width and a bit of belief to the Rangers attack after arriving at half-time.McCulloch: 6 – Arrived after the break to add bite and certainly did that, booked six minutes after coming on. Miller: 6.5 - His pace and tenacity gave Rangers a threat and he almost nicked a goal at the end.
ARSENALAlmunia: 6 – Had very little to do but saved well on the rare occasions he was called upon. Eboue: 6 – Defensively untroubled, although offered little as an attacking force despite Arsenal’s dominance.Silvestre: 6.5 – Cruised through the first half but had more to do after the break. Made an important block on a Mendes cross.Gallas: 6.5 - Read the game well and enjoyed a very comfortable 45 minutes.Clichy: 7 – Had few problems defensively and set up Eduardo for a decent shot after beating Whittaker. Wilshere: 8.5 - Rewarded with a start after dazzling display against Atletico Madrid and had another very impressive game today. Scored two and only a tip over from McGregor denied him a hat-trick. Song: 6.5 - Comfortably protected the back four and didn’t allow Rangers a sniff. Made an excellent block just after the break to deny a certain goal, but a slip allowed Naismith a clear shot on goal. Fabregas: 7 – The skipper had a busy afternoon. He set up the opener and looked lively throughout. Arshavin: 7 - Involved in the second goal and had some great moments, particularly a brilliant first time pass to Eduardo. Merida: 7 - Found lots of space and combined well with Eduardo. Teed up the striker for the second goal and provided him with other chances. Not afraid to shoot.Eduardo: 7.5 - Clinical finish for the second and had chances to double his tally but couldn’t beat McGregor again. SubstitutesTraore: 6.5 - Effortlessly replaced Clichy.Denilson: 6 - Thrashed a shot into row Z. Bendtner: 6 – Quiet showing. Sanchez Watt: 6.5 - Good persistence paid off to help set up the third goal. Ramsey: 6.5 - Accurate cross for Wilshere to grab the third. Rosicky: n/aRANGERSMcGregor: 6.5 - Might have done better for the opener, which he seemed to get a touch on. No chance with the second but pulled off a good save from Wilshere before the break. Whittaker: 5.5 - Had a difficult afternoon with Arshavin and Clichy giving him plenty of problems. Bougherra: 5 - At fault for the third goal by trying, and failing, to shepherd the ball out of play. Weir: 6 - The 39-year-old had his hands full all afternoon but kept going. Great block to deny Fabregas, just after the hour mark. Papac: 5.5 – Another player who struggled at times against the Gunners' flowing football.Thompson: 5 - Guilty of losing possession on more than one occasion, which handed Arsenal the attacking initiative and kept Rangers on the back foot. Naismith: 6.5 – Improved as the game wore on and was involved in most of Rangers' best moves. Should have scored on the hour mark but shot straight at Almunia. Mendes: 6.5 – Was forced deep in the first half and worked hard tracking back. More adventurous after the break and helped drive Rangers forward.Davis: 7 – Rangers’ main supply line. A willing runner and supplied decent delivery, set up Naismith with a super ball that should have led to a goal. Beasley: 5 - A willing runner down the left but found it difficult going and created little. Lafferty: 5 - Up front on his own, starved of service and barely saw the ball, in truth. SubstitutesNovo: 6.5 - Added pace, width and a bit of belief to the Rangers attack after arriving at half-time.McCulloch: 6 – Arrived after the break to add bite and certainly did that, booked six minutes after coming on. Miller: 6.5 - His pace and tenacity gave Rangers a threat and he almost nicked a goal at the end.
Jose Mourinho Has Left Inter Short Of Strikers
Jose Mourinho has left himself short of firepower, according to a former Nerazzurri hitman।
Former Inter striker Aldo Serena has cast his doubts upon Jose Mourinho's transfer wisdom this summer, pointing to a striker exodus at the club.
Serena believes the departures of Adriano, Hernan Crespo, Julio Cruz and Zlatan Ibrahimovic have left the 'Special One' short of options, despite the arrivals of Diego Milito and Samuel Eto'o.
"Up front there aren't many [players]. Apart from David Suazo, Mourinho doesn't have many options," Serena told Tuttosport.
"Allowing Cruz to leave was a mistake. Cruz would have been ideal as the alternative to Milito.
"He has the experience and he knows how to make an impact during important moments.
"Last year, apart from 'Ibra', Inter had three center forwards in Adriano, Crespo and Cruz. Now they only have one in Milito."
Serena spent a total of six years at Inter during different spells there in the 1980s. He won the Scudetto with the Nerazzurri in 1989.
Former Inter striker Aldo Serena has cast his doubts upon Jose Mourinho's transfer wisdom this summer, pointing to a striker exodus at the club.
Serena believes the departures of Adriano, Hernan Crespo, Julio Cruz and Zlatan Ibrahimovic have left the 'Special One' short of options, despite the arrivals of Diego Milito and Samuel Eto'o.
"Up front there aren't many [players]. Apart from David Suazo, Mourinho doesn't have many options," Serena told Tuttosport.
"Allowing Cruz to leave was a mistake. Cruz would have been ideal as the alternative to Milito.
"He has the experience and he knows how to make an impact during important moments.
"Last year, apart from 'Ibra', Inter had three center forwards in Adriano, Crespo and Cruz. Now they only have one in Milito."
Serena spent a total of six years at Inter during different spells there in the 1980s. He won the Scudetto with the Nerazzurri in 1989.
Man United And Liverpool To Fight Over David Villa
The English giants are poised to enter bidding war for the Valencia star।
Manchester United and Liverpool are to test the resolve of Valencia and launch a bid for their star player David Villa, according to a report in The Independent.
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is keen to partner Villa with Spanish international team-mate Fernando Torres, and is planning to invest the money gained by selling Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid by bringing the forward to Anfield.
Sir Alex Ferguson, for his part, had claimed his summer spending was over but has apparently reconsidered, believing his squad may be exposed should Michael Owen pick up an injury this season.
The Red Devils are planning to discuss a potential deal with Valencia before the two sides meet for a friendly on Wednesday. It is believed a bid of £25 million could tempt Los Che to sell their prime asset.
It is reported that Ferguson is also interested in acquiring creative midfielder David Silva from Valencia.
If Liverpool miss out on Villa, they will then switch their attentions to firming up their interest in Roma's Alberto Aquilani.
Manchester United and Liverpool are to test the resolve of Valencia and launch a bid for their star player David Villa, according to a report in The Independent.
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is keen to partner Villa with Spanish international team-mate Fernando Torres, and is planning to invest the money gained by selling Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid by bringing the forward to Anfield.
Sir Alex Ferguson, for his part, had claimed his summer spending was over but has apparently reconsidered, believing his squad may be exposed should Michael Owen pick up an injury this season.
The Red Devils are planning to discuss a potential deal with Valencia before the two sides meet for a friendly on Wednesday. It is believed a bid of £25 million could tempt Los Che to sell their prime asset.
It is reported that Ferguson is also interested in acquiring creative midfielder David Silva from Valencia.
If Liverpool miss out on Villa, they will then switch their attentions to firming up their interest in Roma's Alberto Aquilani.
Carragher Wants Alonso & Mascherano To Commit To Liverpool
The Bootle-born centre-back wants Benitez to keep hold of as many of the current squad as he possibly can.
Liverpool stalwart Jamie Carragher, a defender who has shown loyalty to the Reds throughout his playing career, believes that after a strong season last campaign, in which the Anfield outfit fought with rivals Manchester United for the Premier League crown, it is especially imperative that the current squad remain together.
The 31-year-old was speaking about the speculation surrounding the respective futures of Real Madrid target Xabi Alonso and wantaway Argentinean leader Javier Mascherano.
"When you have gone as close as we did last season you don't want to lose anyone from your squad," he told The People. "All I would say is that I don't want any of our influential players to leave.
"I'm not naming names, but there have been stories that certain players could leave the club and it's important that those things are settled sooner rather than later.
"The last thing we want is to be going into the new season not knowing whether someone is going to leave before the transfer window closes.
"So the quicker these things are sorted the better, because then we can concentrate on the business of winning football matches."
Liverpool stalwart Jamie Carragher, a defender who has shown loyalty to the Reds throughout his playing career, believes that after a strong season last campaign, in which the Anfield outfit fought with rivals Manchester United for the Premier League crown, it is especially imperative that the current squad remain together.
The 31-year-old was speaking about the speculation surrounding the respective futures of Real Madrid target Xabi Alonso and wantaway Argentinean leader Javier Mascherano.
"When you have gone as close as we did last season you don't want to lose anyone from your squad," he told The People. "All I would say is that I don't want any of our influential players to leave.
"I'm not naming names, but there have been stories that certain players could leave the club and it's important that those things are settled sooner rather than later.
"The last thing we want is to be going into the new season not knowing whether someone is going to leave before the transfer window closes.
"So the quicker these things are sorted the better, because then we can concentrate on the business of winning football matches."
Samuel Eto'o Eager To Win With Inter
The Cameroonian ace appears to be enjoying life at the Italian club.
Samuel Eto'o signed for Internazionale from Barcelona last week in a mega player-plus-cash deal that saw Swedish star Zlatan Ibrahimovic moving to Camp Nou.
The 28-year-old striker, who scored over a hundred goals with Barcelona, has declared that he does not regret teaming up with Inter, a club he describes as having a "family atmosphere."
"This is what I told my family: I told them that I am more and more convinced of the decision I have made of joining Inter," Eto'o told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I have already started walking a bit around Milan. I like the city, in some things it reminds me of Madrid, and the people in the street that recognise me have not bothered me much. Of course, almost everyone has asked me the same: 'Eto'o, we want the Champions League.'"
Eto'o insisted that he was welcomed by every player at Inter, not just the ones he had played with in the past, Esteban Cambiasso and Thiago Motta.
"In truth, the impact was positive with everyone: this is what a player who changes teams needs, this is what is good for him," he noted.
The Cameroon international stressed that he is eager to win the Italian Supercup, which will be played on August 8 against Lazio in Beijing.
"I really wish to win the Italian Supercup: to defeat Lazio in Beijing would be the best way to return the trust I felt around me.
"Only one week was enough for me to understand how much I want to win here at Inter," he concluded.
Samuel Eto'o signed for Internazionale from Barcelona last week in a mega player-plus-cash deal that saw Swedish star Zlatan Ibrahimovic moving to Camp Nou.
The 28-year-old striker, who scored over a hundred goals with Barcelona, has declared that he does not regret teaming up with Inter, a club he describes as having a "family atmosphere."
"This is what I told my family: I told them that I am more and more convinced of the decision I have made of joining Inter," Eto'o told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I have already started walking a bit around Milan. I like the city, in some things it reminds me of Madrid, and the people in the street that recognise me have not bothered me much. Of course, almost everyone has asked me the same: 'Eto'o, we want the Champions League.'"
Eto'o insisted that he was welcomed by every player at Inter, not just the ones he had played with in the past, Esteban Cambiasso and Thiago Motta.
"In truth, the impact was positive with everyone: this is what a player who changes teams needs, this is what is good for him," he noted.
The Cameroon international stressed that he is eager to win the Italian Supercup, which will be played on August 8 against Lazio in Beijing.
"I really wish to win the Italian Supercup: to defeat Lazio in Beijing would be the best way to return the trust I felt around me.
"Only one week was enough for me to understand how much I want to win here at Inter," he concluded.
Samuel Eto'o Eager To Win With Inter
The Cameroonian ace appears to be enjoying life at the Italian club.
Samuel Eto'o signed for Internazionale from Barcelona last week in a mega player-plus-cash deal that saw Swedish star Zlatan Ibrahimovic moving to Camp Nou.
The 28-year-old striker, who scored over a hundred goals with Barcelona, has declared that he does not regret teaming up with Inter, a club he describes as having a "family atmosphere."
"This is what I told my family: I told them that I am more and more convinced of the decision I have made of joining Inter," Eto'o told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I have already started walking a bit around Milan. I like the city, in some things it reminds me of Madrid, and the people in the street that recognise me have not bothered me much. Of course, almost everyone has asked me the same: 'Eto'o, we want the Champions League.'"
Eto'o insisted that he was welcomed by every player at Inter, not just the ones he had played with in the past, Esteban Cambiasso and Thiago Motta.
"In truth, the impact was positive with everyone: this is what a player who changes teams needs, this is what is good for him," he noted.
The Cameroon international stressed that he is eager to win the Italian Supercup, which will be played on August 8 against Lazio in Beijing.
"I really wish to win the Italian Supercup: to defeat Lazio in Beijing would be the best way to return the trust I felt around me.
"Only one week was enough for me to understand how much I want to win here at Inter," he concluded.
Samuel Eto'o signed for Internazionale from Barcelona last week in a mega player-plus-cash deal that saw Swedish star Zlatan Ibrahimovic moving to Camp Nou.
The 28-year-old striker, who scored over a hundred goals with Barcelona, has declared that he does not regret teaming up with Inter, a club he describes as having a "family atmosphere."
"This is what I told my family: I told them that I am more and more convinced of the decision I have made of joining Inter," Eto'o told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I have already started walking a bit around Milan. I like the city, in some things it reminds me of Madrid, and the people in the street that recognise me have not bothered me much. Of course, almost everyone has asked me the same: 'Eto'o, we want the Champions League.'"
Eto'o insisted that he was welcomed by every player at Inter, not just the ones he had played with in the past, Esteban Cambiasso and Thiago Motta.
"In truth, the impact was positive with everyone: this is what a player who changes teams needs, this is what is good for him," he noted.
The Cameroon international stressed that he is eager to win the Italian Supercup, which will be played on August 8 against Lazio in Beijing.
"I really wish to win the Italian Supercup: to defeat Lazio in Beijing would be the best way to return the trust I felt around me.
"Only one week was enough for me to understand how much I want to win here at Inter," he concluded.
Ibrahimovic Praises New Barca Team-Mate Messi
The former Nerazzurri man cannot wait to get started with the Spanish giants।
Barcelona’s star signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic has made it clear that he is eagerly anticipating the start of the new campaign, in order to commence life with his new club.Since joining the Spanish side from Inter, the Swedish hitman has been extremely positive about the move, and has praised an incredible amount of aspects about the club.“I came to this club and immediately I was impressed by their winning mentality,” Ibrahimovic explained to El Mundo Deportivo.“I cannot wait to run out on the field, and notice that I am playing alongside champions such as Xavi, [Andres] Iniesta and [Lionel] Messi.”The 27-year-old continued by heaping further praise towards the young Argentinean star Messi, a player that he simply cannot wait to play with.He added, “Messi? He is an incredible player. Playing with him will be a great thrill.“I am confident that we will do very well together this season.”‘Ibra’ is currently recovering from surgery on his left hand, and he is expected to return to the playing field in a few weeks time.
Barcelona’s star signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic has made it clear that he is eagerly anticipating the start of the new campaign, in order to commence life with his new club.Since joining the Spanish side from Inter, the Swedish hitman has been extremely positive about the move, and has praised an incredible amount of aspects about the club.“I came to this club and immediately I was impressed by their winning mentality,” Ibrahimovic explained to El Mundo Deportivo.“I cannot wait to run out on the field, and notice that I am playing alongside champions such as Xavi, [Andres] Iniesta and [Lionel] Messi.”The 27-year-old continued by heaping further praise towards the young Argentinean star Messi, a player that he simply cannot wait to play with.He added, “Messi? He is an incredible player. Playing with him will be a great thrill.“I am confident that we will do very well together this season.”‘Ibra’ is currently recovering from surgery on his left hand, and he is expected to return to the playing field in a few weeks time.
Arsene Wenger Hails Jack Wilshere As Arsenal Claim Emirates Cup
The Frenchman is delighted with the youngster's pre-season form।
Arsenal won the Emirates Cup today, after a 3-0 victory over Rangers in north London saw them claim the pre-season trophy. Young midfielder Jack Wilshere was the star of the show, with the teenager bagging a brace of goals and turning in his second man of the match performance of the weekend.His manager Arsene Wenger was delighted with the midfielder's display, but also asserted that the 17-year-old must be nurtured carefully to prevent the weight of expectation smothering him."I believe overall we played a good game, with good cohesion and movement," the Frenchman told Sky Sports News after the victory over the Scottish champions."Jack of course was on the end of it twice, but I think we had a good team performance."England national team manager Fabio Capello was at the at the game, but Wenger wouldn't be drawn on whether the Italian was watching Wilshere, adding, "You cannot rule anything out, but I believe as well you have to be patient."The coach also revealed that Rangers had given his side a good defensive test at times today."Yes, especially in the second half," he admitted. "They made some good runs and some balls behind our defenders where we were exposed a few times."Over the two days I feel we defended well as a team, though sometimes we were exposed during a few moments in both games."As for whether the two weekend friendlies had shown him of the need to bring in further reinforcements from outside the club, Wenger hinted that there would be no more transfer purchases from the Gunners this summer."It just shows that we have good players. If you look at the players who did not play today and the players who did not play overall in the two days I believe that we have a very squad," he affirmed."I think it's more important that now we focus on our targets and what strength we have within more than expecting a miracle from outside."
Arsenal won the Emirates Cup today, after a 3-0 victory over Rangers in north London saw them claim the pre-season trophy. Young midfielder Jack Wilshere was the star of the show, with the teenager bagging a brace of goals and turning in his second man of the match performance of the weekend.His manager Arsene Wenger was delighted with the midfielder's display, but also asserted that the 17-year-old must be nurtured carefully to prevent the weight of expectation smothering him."I believe overall we played a good game, with good cohesion and movement," the Frenchman told Sky Sports News after the victory over the Scottish champions."Jack of course was on the end of it twice, but I think we had a good team performance."England national team manager Fabio Capello was at the at the game, but Wenger wouldn't be drawn on whether the Italian was watching Wilshere, adding, "You cannot rule anything out, but I believe as well you have to be patient."The coach also revealed that Rangers had given his side a good defensive test at times today."Yes, especially in the second half," he admitted. "They made some good runs and some balls behind our defenders where we were exposed a few times."Over the two days I feel we defended well as a team, though sometimes we were exposed during a few moments in both games."As for whether the two weekend friendlies had shown him of the need to bring in further reinforcements from outside the club, Wenger hinted that there would be no more transfer purchases from the Gunners this summer."It just shows that we have good players. If you look at the players who did not play today and the players who did not play overall in the two days I believe that we have a very squad," he affirmed."I think it's more important that now we focus on our targets and what strength we have within more than expecting a miracle from outside."
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