VS
Date: Wednesday, 07/24/2013 20:30
Competition: Friendly
Stadium: Allianz Arena
City: Munich
Capacity: 66.000
07/24/2013 20:30
Sunday 21 July 2013
Sergi Roberto was 14 years old when he left his hometown of Reus to join La Masia at FC Barcelona. Now 21, he has spent a third of his life at Barça, having made his first team debut it 2010 and now in 2013/2014 he has finally been made an official member of the first team squad and is closer than ever to a regular spot in the first eleven.
Seven years at La Masia
Sergi Roberto spent three years playing with the different youth teams, and then enjoyed four seasons with Barça B, first playing in Division 2B and then in 2A. Every one of his previous coaches has used him as a regular first team member.
Luis Enrique handed him his B team debut in 2009/2010, and that same season, in a Copa del Rey game with Ceuta, Pep Guardiola gave him a chance in the first team. In 2011, Sergi Roberto even got to play his first Champions League match, and none other than the semi-final at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Skilful, direct and powerful
Sergi Roberto is not the typical midfielder to come out of La Masia. Although he naturally developed the same short passing game and the ability to read the play, Roberto is also a physical player and likes to take a more direct approach. This adds an exciting element of unpredictability to the Barça style, which is a constant cause of bother for rival defences.
Zubizarreta: “Thiago has left, our bet is on Sergi Roberto”
"There are players who will not have playing time at Barça and we want to find the best solution for them," says Zubizarreta
Andoni Zubizarreta, FC Barcelona football director, joined Tito Vilanova for the first press conference of the 2013/14 season after the first team had completed their first training session of the preseason at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. The director first announced the extension of Sergio Busquets contract through 2018, he then gave an overview of the team, talked about the players who have left the Club this season and declared that he hopes for a more “normal season” than last year.
After Thiago’s sale to Bayern Munich, Zubizarreta said, “we’re counting on Sergi Roberto, who we have a lot of confidence in to cover the position in the midfield.” He then went on to talk about the deal which allowed the older Alcántara to move to Germany: “We spoke with him at the end of the season and a couple of days ago he communicated his intention to continue his career outside of Barça. Given the situation, we looked for the best solution for everyone involved.”
Looking to sign a centre back
Zubizarreta confirmed that the Club is looking to sign a centre back, although he didn’t reveal any details on ongoing negotiations. “Thiago Silva is a PSG player,” he said, and when asked about Roma’sMarquinhos, he said, “his representative does not have an offer, but he’s an interesting player.” The director went on to confirm that Barça are not looking to sign a centre forward after the recent departure ofDavid Villa: “We have good attacking players, we brought in Neymar and he’ll contribute a lot to the team.”
“The best solution for all involved parties”
“There are players who won’t have playing time at Barça, and we’re looking for a solution that will satisfy all involved parties,” explained Zubizarreta when asked about players who will possibly not be with the team this season. “Jonathan dos Santos is a player who has a lot of football, he’s interesting, and we’re looking for the best solution,” he said when asked about the midfielder.
Neymar’s arrival to FC Barcelona
Neymar “is one of the most desired players in the world,” said Zubizarreta when it came time to analyse Barça’s performance in the ongoing summer transfer window. “Everyone believed that a deal for Neymar would cost at least 90 million euros, and we did it with 57 million, it’s an exceptional operation.”
Barça B players make the leap
Just as in past seasons, many of last year’s reserve players are looking to break into the first team. OnRafinha and Deulofeu, both of whom were loaned out to Celta and Everton, respectively, the director said: “We want to see if they perform at the same level in first division football, we have high expectations.”
External noise
After Thiago’s sale to Bayern Munich, Zubizarreta said, “we’re counting on Sergi Roberto, who we have a lot of confidence in to cover the position in the midfield.” He then went on to talk about the deal which allowed the older Alcántara to move to Germany: “We spoke with him at the end of the season and a couple of days ago he communicated his intention to continue his career outside of Barça. Given the situation, we looked for the best solution for everyone involved.”
Looking to sign a centre back
Zubizarreta confirmed that the Club is looking to sign a centre back, although he didn’t reveal any details on ongoing negotiations. “Thiago Silva is a PSG player,” he said, and when asked about Roma’sMarquinhos, he said, “his representative does not have an offer, but he’s an interesting player.” The director went on to confirm that Barça are not looking to sign a centre forward after the recent departure ofDavid Villa: “We have good attacking players, we brought in Neymar and he’ll contribute a lot to the team.”
“The best solution for all involved parties”
“There are players who won’t have playing time at Barça, and we’re looking for a solution that will satisfy all involved parties,” explained Zubizarreta when asked about players who will possibly not be with the team this season. “Jonathan dos Santos is a player who has a lot of football, he’s interesting, and we’re looking for the best solution,” he said when asked about the midfielder.
Neymar’s arrival to FC Barcelona
Neymar “is one of the most desired players in the world,” said Zubizarreta when it came time to analyse Barça’s performance in the ongoing summer transfer window. “Everyone believed that a deal for Neymar would cost at least 90 million euros, and we did it with 57 million, it’s an exceptional operation.”
Barça B players make the leap
Just as in past seasons, many of last year’s reserve players are looking to break into the first team. OnRafinha and Deulofeu, both of whom were loaned out to Celta and Everton, respectively, the director said: “We want to see if they perform at the same level in first division football, we have high expectations.”
External noise
“What we have to do is talk about football, we have to row in the same direction and look to improve ourselves,” said Zubizarreta when asked about the recent extra-athletic issues surrounding the Club in the past couple of days. “At the end of the season we evaluated the work we had done and we worked out some discrepancies. This has helped us to reinforce our process and our work,” the director explained.
Saturday 20 July 2013
Barça looking for a new date for Polish game
FC Barcelona are working together with the promoters of the game in Gdansk to find a new date for a friendly match in Poland as soon as possible. Both the Club and the promoters are determined to announce a new date as soon as it is possible.
The Club would also like to thank the promoters for their understanding at this difficult time and for the professional manner with which they have dealt with the postponement of the game.
FC Barcelona are well aware of the difficulties which the decision to postpone the game has caused for the Polish fans and the two supporters clubs in Poland. The Club would like to reiterate its desire to visit Poland this summer and to enjoy a wonderful game of football with their Polish fans.
#AnimoTito, We are with you ...
#ForcaTITO, You are a winner, i know it ...
Friday 19 July 2013
Barcelona, send a offer for Aguero .
Kun aguero liked, and is dream for it, do going to Barcelona player .
Its the best player talent of the year .
Barcelona is ready, to pay 41,000,000 $ for Kun Aguero .
The board of Manchester City accepted the offert, and Barcelona fans are waiting for the Comfirmation, Kun Aguero to Barcelona .
A €200 million iron-clad contract!
Everything is in place for Real Madrid to extend Jesé's contract. An offer has been prepared and there is nothing left to do but put it on the table for the player to sign. Real is giving the up and coming young player the five-star treatment. The Club has offered him a five-year contract, with a net starting salary of €1 million but this amount will go up with each successive season. In addition, his contract will include a €200 million release clause.
This is what Real is proposing and it hopes this will be enough to keep its young star. This is nothing short of a top-notch contract with a buy-out clause to stop any of the big European guns from luring the striker away.
Real Madrid has already been forced to take defensive action with Jesé twice in the past. First off when the youngster signed an emergency extension back in 2011, as a direct result of Barça's interest in signing him. Since then, the 18 year-old has been shielded even further when his release clause went up to €30 million. Two years down the line, this is simply not enough to keep the rising star tied to the club.
The under-20 international has only one year left on his current contract and he finds himself in the spotlight once more. For this reason, the Real Madrid hierarchy has decided to throw caution to the wind in an attempt to hang on to the starlet, and the club is prepared to do all that is necessary to keep the player in The White House.
This is what Real is proposing and it hopes this will be enough to keep its young star. This is nothing short of a top-notch contract with a buy-out clause to stop any of the big European guns from luring the striker away.
Real Madrid has already been forced to take defensive action with Jesé twice in the past. First off when the youngster signed an emergency extension back in 2011, as a direct result of Barça's interest in signing him. Since then, the 18 year-old has been shielded even further when his release clause went up to €30 million. Two years down the line, this is simply not enough to keep the rising star tied to the club.
The under-20 international has only one year left on his current contract and he finds himself in the spotlight once more. For this reason, the Real Madrid hierarchy has decided to throw caution to the wind in an attempt to hang on to the starlet, and the club is prepared to do all that is necessary to keep the player in The White House.
Benítez: "We won't sign a top striker after Cavani"
Rafael Benítez has ruled out the possibility that Naples will sign a prolific striker to wear the '9' shirt if Cavani finally joins PSG, as he looks set to do. The Spanish manager has complete faith in the scoring ability of the second line players.
"After Cavani goes, we won't be looking for a striker who can score 40 goals a season. We have a second line made up of Mertens, Hamsik and Alley, who can all score goals."
However, Benítez did leave the door open to signing another forward. "We are looking for a forward, but they can all score" he concluded.
"After Cavani goes, we won't be looking for a striker who can score 40 goals a season. We have a second line made up of Mertens, Hamsik and Alley, who can all score goals."
However, Benítez did leave the door open to signing another forward. "We are looking for a forward, but they can all score" he concluded.
Capello: "Real Madrid comes before everything"
Fabio Capello knows what it is to be part of Real Madrid (he managed the team on two different occasions, winning the Spanish league both times). Speaking to Spanish TV's Antenna 3 he said that "when you go to the club, you need to be aware that it comes before the players, the manager, before everything".
"You shouldn't try to be the most important person at Real Madrid", the current national team coach of Russia continued.
Fabio Capello followed the message with an opinion on the appointment of fellow-countryman Carlo Ancelotti: "He's very smart. He knows how to manage a team. He's a quiet man and is experienced - excellent qualities for leading Real Madrid".
The Italian coach rates Ancelotti's project and thinks that "the most promising youngsters in football right now are in Spain, which is why Real Madrid has signed them. They have experience, talent and they know the style needed to play in Spain", he commented.
He also said that the teams facing Messi and Neymar will struggle and talked about Bayern's appointment of Guardiola: "There's not much to change, the only thing is that more pressure might be exerted higher up the pitch to get the ball as fast as possible. That's what Guardiola will bring, he'll ask the forwards to put the pressure on", Capello explained.
"You shouldn't try to be the most important person at Real Madrid", the current national team coach of Russia continued.
Fabio Capello followed the message with an opinion on the appointment of fellow-countryman Carlo Ancelotti: "He's very smart. He knows how to manage a team. He's a quiet man and is experienced - excellent qualities for leading Real Madrid".
The Italian coach rates Ancelotti's project and thinks that "the most promising youngsters in football right now are in Spain, which is why Real Madrid has signed them. They have experience, talent and they know the style needed to play in Spain", he commented.
He also said that the teams facing Messi and Neymar will struggle and talked about Bayern's appointment of Guardiola: "There's not much to change, the only thing is that more pressure might be exerted higher up the pitch to get the ball as fast as possible. That's what Guardiola will bring, he'll ask the forwards to put the pressure on", Capello explained.
AC Milan-Robinho, the agent: "I don't know if he'll stay." Three hours later contract extended until 2016
Galliani made a statement after the meeting: "He staying. The Santos matter is completely closed. We are discussing an extension." Raid on Moscow for Honda
The contract was signed before it became a problem, extending the player's agreement with AC Milan until 2016. This afternoon the Brazilian player's father and his agent arrived at Milan HQ in via Turati, Milan, but Rossoneri CEO Adriano Galliani didn't meet them. The pair had to leave without Robinho's new contract in hand.
THE AGENT — After approximately an hour, Robinho's father and his lawyer emerged from the Via Turati offices where they answered some questions put to them by gazzetta.it. "We didn't speak to Galliani; we were here for administration issues," said Robinho's lawyer, Marisa Alija Ramos. Robinho is happy at AC Milan, but I'm not sure if he'll stay. It is possible."
THE SITUATION — For some weeks now Galliani has been putting on the "signings will only be made if someone leaves" record. OK, but it doesn't look like anyone is about to leave. The main contender has always been Robinho. After the deal didn't go through in January, it looked like the agreement with Santos had just been put on ice. But temperatures have been rising and accusations flying on both sides. When Galliani left his office he explained the situation. "Any question of Robinho leaving has been closed, we have been discussing a contract renewal. There's no chance of him going to Santos, he's happy to stay here at AC Milan. Will Bronzetti be heading to Moscow to sign Honda? No, he won't...someone else will."
SIGNED THIS EVENING — The official statement was released at nine thirty this evening: the Brazilian player has renewed his contract with AC Milan until 2016.
Del Piero to bring Sydney FC to Jesolo “Tevez, wear that No.10 with love”
The former Juventus hero persuaded his Australian club to hold their training camp at the town he used to visit as a child: “I won my first cups here... playing bowls”
The Spanish Exodus
Álvaro Negredo is the latest Spaniard to follow in the footsteps of Thiago Alcántara and José Gómez Campaña in going abroad. And before them went Jesús Navas, Joaquín and Fernando Llorente. Leaving for foreign shores is now all the rage in Spanish football whereas once upon a time it was the exception.
A total of 212 Spanish players were playing abroad last season and another 18 have joined their ranks so far this summer. At least nine out of the 23 players in the national squad that competed in the last edition of the Confederations Cup – and you could add a few more names to that list – will play on foreign soil next season. This trend is also having an impact of the lower categories as well.
This talent drain is threatening to undermine the competitiveness of the Spanish League in comparison with its main European rivals and has come about for two main reasons: the depth of the economic crisis that grips Spain, which is feeling the pinch far more than the UK and Germany, coupled with the impact the Spanish Squad is having on the world footballing stage.
Ginés Carvajal, the agent of former Barça winger Gerard Deulofeu, now on loan to Everton, believes: "Spanish football is revered all over the world, because everywhere they want to play like Spain does."
A total of 212 Spanish players were playing abroad last season and another 18 have joined their ranks so far this summer. At least nine out of the 23 players in the national squad that competed in the last edition of the Confederations Cup – and you could add a few more names to that list – will play on foreign soil next season. This trend is also having an impact of the lower categories as well.
This talent drain is threatening to undermine the competitiveness of the Spanish League in comparison with its main European rivals and has come about for two main reasons: the depth of the economic crisis that grips Spain, which is feeling the pinch far more than the UK and Germany, coupled with the impact the Spanish Squad is having on the world footballing stage.
Ginés Carvajal, the agent of former Barça winger Gerard Deulofeu, now on loan to Everton, believes: "Spanish football is revered all over the world, because everywhere they want to play like Spain does."
Jesé in the nick of time
Jesé appeared in the nick of time for Spain in Istanbul (2-1). The match was heading to extra-time when the Canarian popped up in the 90th minute with a goal to send Spain into the quarter-finals. The striker scuffed his shot, but the ball luckily took a deflection off Fuentes and found its way past goalkeeper Sánchez.
'La Rojita' sent the mighty Mexico packing, who had caused Spain all sorts of problems. The South Americans opened the scoring in the 2nd minute through Arturo González and could have added more in the first half as the side had Spain under the cosh, but could not find a way through. After the break, Lopetegui's men improved, as the coach looked to the bench for inspiration. Suso and Denis were brought on and the equaliser came in the 74th minute when a corner was headed in by Derik. Then in the dying seconds, Jesé clinched the victory to send Spain into the quarter-finals.
'La Rojita' sent the mighty Mexico packing, who had caused Spain all sorts of problems. The South Americans opened the scoring in the 2nd minute through Arturo González and could have added more in the first half as the side had Spain under the cosh, but could not find a way through. After the break, Lopetegui's men improved, as the coach looked to the bench for inspiration. Suso and Denis were brought on and the equaliser came in the 74th minute when a corner was headed in by Derik. Then in the dying seconds, Jesé clinched the victory to send Spain into the quarter-finals.
Del Bosque: ''Illarra has immense talent''
Spain boss Vicente del Bosque said earlier on Radio Marca programme 'En Directo' that he has a "very stable" squad, before adding: "Although we lost our last game (Confederations Cup), we still have complete faith in the players".
Del Bosque is already planning for Spain's next match in September against Finland in the 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign, but he also looked back on the final of the Confederations Cup. "The situation around the final, against Brazil in their home ground, made it difficult for us to be at our best. If they were to blame on that day, then they were also the ones who had it in them to reach the final and that's very important", he said.
The Spain manager also spoke on the youth-team policies at clubs: "In times of crisis and cut-backs it's important that Spanish clubs invest in their youth-teams", he said, before saying that the young players at Real Madrid: "can compete perfectly well, but do not make the starting-eleven on a weekly basis. Youth-teams have proved to be important for all clubs, especially Real Madrid".
Del Bosque concluded by giving his view on future Madrid signing, Asier Illarramendi: "He's a very good player, with immense talent and played extremely well in the (under-21) Euros. He's a very good centre-midfielder".
Del Bosque is already planning for Spain's next match in September against Finland in the 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign, but he also looked back on the final of the Confederations Cup. "The situation around the final, against Brazil in their home ground, made it difficult for us to be at our best. If they were to blame on that day, then they were also the ones who had it in them to reach the final and that's very important", he said.
The Spain manager also spoke on the youth-team policies at clubs: "In times of crisis and cut-backs it's important that Spanish clubs invest in their youth-teams", he said, before saying that the young players at Real Madrid: "can compete perfectly well, but do not make the starting-eleven on a weekly basis. Youth-teams have proved to be important for all clubs, especially Real Madrid".
Del Bosque concluded by giving his view on future Madrid signing, Asier Illarramendi: "He's a very good player, with immense talent and played extremely well in the (under-21) Euros. He's a very good centre-midfielder".
Neymar and Ronaldo to face off for the first time
Relevent Sports and the New England Revolution announced that the national teams of Brazil and Portugal will meet at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts on September 10 at 8:30 p.m, ET. The match will mark the first time that these two rivals have played each other in the United States.
"We are thrilled to be bringing such a marquee match-up to Boston-area, home to the country's largest Portuguese-speaking community", said Relevent CEO Charlie Stillitano. "Both teams feature some of the world's most exciting players and there's no doubt that this will be a must-see event for all soccer fans".
Brazil goes to Boston after winning the 2013 Confederations Cup on home soil with a 3-0 win over Spain. Brazil is the only national team to win the FIFA World Cup five times and is currently led by new FC Barcelona signing, Neymar. Managed by 2002 World Cup winning coach Luis Felipe Scolari, the side also features Paris-Saint Germain defender Thiago Silva, FC Barcelona right-back Dani Alves and Chelsea midfielder Oscar amongst numerous star players.
Regarding the match, Brazilian Federation (CBF) President Jose Maria Marin said: "We are thrilled to return to Gillette Stadium and the greater Boston area. The opportunity to play against a world-class opponent in Portugal is an exciting opportunity and we look forward to once again playing in front of our passionate fans living in the Boston-area".
Neymar, who scored four goals in the recent Confederations Cup, said that "it is always a thrill to come to the United States and I am very happy to play against Portugal in Boston at Gillette Stadium on September 10. The Boston-area has a very large Brazilian population and I invite all of our fans in the United States to come out and enjoy the match".
Portugal features Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo and currently leads its UEFA World Cup qualifying group after seven matches. The team is coached by Paulo Bento and also features Manchester United winger Nani and Real Madrid defender Fábio Coentrão. The Iberians lost in the semifinals of last year's European Championship.
The two teams last played at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa to a 0-0 draw. Brazil last appeared at Gillette Stadium in a 2-0 loss to Venezuela on November 14, 2009. Portugal played at the old Foxboro Stadium on June 7, 1992 in a 2-0 loss to Ireland.
Vilanova: "Ancelotti is a great coach"
Tito Vilanova has happily announced that Messi has returned to training in fantastic form. "I've never seen him come back for pre-season in such good shape", said the 'Azulgrana' coach, who doesn't see any problems with the active holidays that the Argentine ace had.
Regarding Carlo Ancelotti's arrival to the Spanish league, Vilanova heaped praise upon the Italian coach because "he's a fantastic manager" that's won titles in England, Italy and France. "I hope he can make a contribution to Spanish football", he added.
"Signing Neymar and a new centre-back was the aim. I'm happy with how things have developed", Vilanova commented, with the Barcelona manager not worried about how the relationship between Neymar and Leo Messi may evolve in the future.
"I'm very happy to have a player like Neymar. Messi is the best player in the history of football and Neymar has to show his qualities in a league like 'La Liga'. I think they complement each other well as players. If Neymar joined another team, we would be worried", he said.
Regarding Thiago's transfer, Vilanova said that he wants players like Fàbregas, who are committed to winning titles with Barça. "I would have liked Thiago to stay. He's already a top player and has huge potential, and it's a shame that he's left. I want players that can tell me: I want to win with Barça", he said.
Regarding Carlo Ancelotti's arrival to the Spanish league, Vilanova heaped praise upon the Italian coach because "he's a fantastic manager" that's won titles in England, Italy and France. "I hope he can make a contribution to Spanish football", he added.
"Signing Neymar and a new centre-back was the aim. I'm happy with how things have developed", Vilanova commented, with the Barcelona manager not worried about how the relationship between Neymar and Leo Messi may evolve in the future.
"I'm very happy to have a player like Neymar. Messi is the best player in the history of football and Neymar has to show his qualities in a league like 'La Liga'. I think they complement each other well as players. If Neymar joined another team, we would be worried", he said.
Regarding Thiago's transfer, Vilanova said that he wants players like Fàbregas, who are committed to winning titles with Barça. "I would have liked Thiago to stay. He's already a top player and has huge potential, and it's a shame that he's left. I want players that can tell me: I want to win with Barça", he said.
Negredo: "City is a huge club; it was a no-brainer"
Sevilla and Manchester City have agreed a deal worth up to €28 million for Álvaro Negredo, with the English club set to pay €25m up front and up to €3m in performance-related extras. Assuming he passes a medical, the marksman is all set to be reunited with former Sevilla partner in crime Jesús Navas in Manchester.
Negredo was unable to hold back the tears on saying goodbye, expressing his gratitude to the club in general and specifically to club supremo Del Nido. "Thanks to all of you. I've had four amazing years here. It's been like a dream. I'd like to thank the president for believing in me when I was a nobody and for everything he's given me. The way he's treated me has been first-class", the striker stated.
The Madrid-born hitman can't wait to get started at his new club. "You go through different phases in football. My time here had come to an end. City is a huge club and it was a no-brainer".
Sevilla and Manchester City had reached an agreement on the transfer of Spanish international striker Álvaro Negredo on Wednesday morning. President José María del Nido confirmed as much.
Negredo will sign "the contract of his life", according to the Sevilla president.
The negotiations were stepped up on Tuesday afternoon, when Negredo left the Sevilla camp in Costa Ballena before his team turned out to play a friendly match against San Fernando. The Madrid-born striker travelled to Sevilla to finalise his move to the Citizens, which is now a done deal. All that remains is for the two clubs to officially confirm the deal.
Negredo was unable to hold back the tears on saying goodbye, expressing his gratitude to the club in general and specifically to club supremo Del Nido. "Thanks to all of you. I've had four amazing years here. It's been like a dream. I'd like to thank the president for believing in me when I was a nobody and for everything he's given me. The way he's treated me has been first-class", the striker stated.
The Madrid-born hitman can't wait to get started at his new club. "You go through different phases in football. My time here had come to an end. City is a huge club and it was a no-brainer".
Sevilla and Manchester City had reached an agreement on the transfer of Spanish international striker Álvaro Negredo on Wednesday morning. President José María del Nido confirmed as much.
Negredo will sign "the contract of his life", according to the Sevilla president.
The negotiations were stepped up on Tuesday afternoon, when Negredo left the Sevilla camp in Costa Ballena before his team turned out to play a friendly match against San Fernando. The Madrid-born striker travelled to Sevilla to finalise his move to the Citizens, which is now a done deal. All that remains is for the two clubs to officially confirm the deal.
Casemiro earns his place
Real Madrid is seeking to dispel any doubts surrounding the possibility of the club loaning or selling Casemiro. There is absolutely no intention of allowing the Brazilian player to leave 'Los Blancos' this summer.
The Brazilian forms part of the plans being put together by the new Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti, who is counting on Casemiro to provide him with another option for the first team's midfield next season.
The fact that Real Madrid has a large number of midfielders on the payroll led to doubts about Casemiro's future at the club. The recent signings of Isco and especially Illarramendi, together with the presence of Xabi Alonso, Modric and Khedira, suggested that the Brazilian would have a tough time making the line-up. However, the direction being taken by the club is clear and Ancelotti also wants to be able to call on him.
This is especially true given the fact that Xabi Alonso is injured and may miss the first few months of the season. The decision is final and Casemiro will be part of the squad, at least until the winter transfer market, when the club may look at the player's situation again and make a decision.
Casemiro came to Real Madrid from São Paulo last season during the winter transfer window. He was originally loaned to Castilla and was later called up to the first team to play in the Champions League.
The Brazilian forms part of the plans being put together by the new Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti, who is counting on Casemiro to provide him with another option for the first team's midfield next season.
The fact that Real Madrid has a large number of midfielders on the payroll led to doubts about Casemiro's future at the club. The recent signings of Isco and especially Illarramendi, together with the presence of Xabi Alonso, Modric and Khedira, suggested that the Brazilian would have a tough time making the line-up. However, the direction being taken by the club is clear and Ancelotti also wants to be able to call on him.
This is especially true given the fact that Xabi Alonso is injured and may miss the first few months of the season. The decision is final and Casemiro will be part of the squad, at least until the winter transfer market, when the club may look at the player's situation again and make a decision.
Casemiro came to Real Madrid from São Paulo last season during the winter transfer window. He was originally loaned to Castilla and was later called up to the first team to play in the Champions League.
Casillas meets Ancelotti
Iker Casillas returned to Madrid on Wednesday after spending the last few days in the Seychelles. The first thing he did was to visit Valdebebas to meet with the new technical staff.
Iker is already counting down the days until he starts working with Carlo Ancelotti. Although he doesn't need to join training until the 28th, the technical staff is asking him to get out onto the pitch already.
He arrived when the training session had finished. Iker said hi to Cristiano Ronaldo, Diego López, Kaká, Higuaín, Benzema, Pepe… not to forget the new signings such as Isco, Illarramendi, Casemiro and Carvajal, who he wished the best of luck. He shared jokes with others and seemed to have a relaxed body language. Iker's visit livened up the morning.
At 11:30 he passed by the residence. Ancelotti was on one of the terraces when he saw Casillas approach. It was a big surprise for the coach. He reacted with a satisfied smile, a warm handshake and some friendly pats on the shoulder for the keeper.
Zidane and William Vacchi (goalkeeper coach) soon turned up with some of Carlo's assistants. And Zidane's face also lit up when he saw Iker, with the happiness of seeing an old friend again.
Ancelotti expressed his expectations and gave Casillas motivation. He told the keeper that he wants him to be the captain, that he believes in his skills and experience, and that he needs to set a good example. He also told him that he'll have to work hard. He told Iker that he has faith in him and that he also has great expectations regarding what he can achieve.
Iker is already counting down the days until he starts working with Carlo Ancelotti. Although he doesn't need to join training until the 28th, the technical staff is asking him to get out onto the pitch already.
He arrived when the training session had finished. Iker said hi to Cristiano Ronaldo, Diego López, Kaká, Higuaín, Benzema, Pepe… not to forget the new signings such as Isco, Illarramendi, Casemiro and Carvajal, who he wished the best of luck. He shared jokes with others and seemed to have a relaxed body language. Iker's visit livened up the morning.
At 11:30 he passed by the residence. Ancelotti was on one of the terraces when he saw Casillas approach. It was a big surprise for the coach. He reacted with a satisfied smile, a warm handshake and some friendly pats on the shoulder for the keeper.
Zidane and William Vacchi (goalkeeper coach) soon turned up with some of Carlo's assistants. And Zidane's face also lit up when he saw Iker, with the happiness of seeing an old friend again.
Ancelotti expressed his expectations and gave Casillas motivation. He told the keeper that he wants him to be the captain, that he believes in his skills and experience, and that he needs to set a good example. He also told him that he'll have to work hard. He told Iker that he has faith in him and that he also has great expectations regarding what he can achieve.
Al-Khelaifi still dreams of Ronaldo... and Messi
The PSG president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, still longs to sign Cristiano Ronaldo. "I wish him the best. I know he has two more years on his contract with Real Madrid. I have an excellent relationship with Florentino. If I want my dream of signing Cristiano Ronaldo to come true, I'll call him," he assured in an interview with 'L'Équipe'.
The Qatari also remarked on Zlatan Ibrahimovic's situation and closed the door on the possibility of the Swede leaving. "Ibra is staying at PSG. The project is going to move forward with him, that's for sure," he said. Rumours claim that the player has expressed a desire to continue with Ancelotti and therefore wanted to sign for Real Madrid.
Meanwhile, Al-Khelaifi attempted to bury the issue of Thiago Silva once and for all in statements to actusports.fr: "If Barça pays Silva's buy-out clause, I'll pay Messi's."
"They question our credibility, but we signed Cavani. Lots of clubs wanted him. Our objective is to win the Champions League within four years," the sheikh said with respect to PSG's project.
Higuaín, Mourinho's plan B
José Mourinho has publicly revealed that one of his summer transfer targets is Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney. However, since the Portuguese's return to Stamford Bridge, a move for Gonzalo Higuaín has not been ruled out.
It now seems the latter option may be the most likely as United appears reluctant to sell the England international to Chelsea.
It is no secret that Higuaín's other alternative is Napoli, whose club president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has revealed his interest in the Argentine striker and, according to Thursday's edition of 'Corriere dello Sport', the club is preparing a €30-million bid after the sale of Cavani to PSG for €64 million.
/Marca\
Paris Saint-Germain seals Cavani signing
The Uruguayan has completed his move to the Parc des Princes from Napoli after three stellar seasons at the San Paolo for a fee around 63 million euros.
Paris Saint-Germain has completed the long-awaited signing of striker Edinson Cavani from Napoli.The Uruguay international has long been linked with an exit from Stadio San Paolo, with the likes of Real Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester City all previously linked with his signature.
PSG had leaped to the front of the queue over the past few weeks, though, and the Ligue 1 champions have now announced the successful capture of the 26-year-old for a fee thought to be in the 63 million euro range.
Cavani first moved to the San Paolo from Palermo back in 2010, and he developed into a key player with the Neapolitan club, helping the side to the 2012 Coppa Italia and a second-place finish in Serie A last season.
He began his professional career with Danubio in 2005 and first moved to Europe two yers later.
Lewandowki : BVB is forcing me to stay .
The Poland international, who had expected to be allowed to join Bayern Munich this year, believes BVB have went back on their word as the summer saga continues
Robert Lewandowski says he is "astonished" at how he has been treated at Borussia Dortmund.Lewandowski, 24, believes he had been given assurances that he would be able to exit BVB in this transfer window, with Bayern Munich a likely destination.
But he is adamant the club has reneged on a deal which would have seen the Poland international leave Signal Iduna Park this summer.
"In the second half of the season, I gave everything for Dortmund, as always. I played and scored, knowing that I would be allowed to leave," Lewandowski told Bild Sport. "I was certain I would be given the green light for a transfer.
"Now all of the sudden everything is different. Unfortunately, I'm forced to stay. I'm astonished at how they're treating me. I have to accept that I have to stay in Dortmund."
Lewandowski is set to remain at Signal Iduna Park and run down the rest of his contract which ends in June 2014.
The former Lech Poznan striker started life slowly at Westfalenstadion, but over the past two seasons has emerged as one of Europe’s leading attackers, epitomized by the four goals he scored in a memorable night against Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final.
The Pole has scored 75 goals in 136 appearances for last season’s Champions League runners-up.
We run through the latest talking points in world football and which stars could be on the move this summer.
We run through the latest talking points in world football and which stars could be on the move this summer.
With Thiago Alcantara opting for a reunion with Pep Guardiola, Manchester United has set its sights on another Barcelona man, Cesc Fabregas.Teaming up with Robin van Persie would be a mouthwatering prospect for David Moyes, but could both the former Arsenal captains really lineup against the Gunners next season, and what does this mean for Wayne Rooney?
Arsene Wenger will be hoping otherwise, but the longest-serving Premier League boss is starting to feel the heat from the board after seemingly getting cold feet in the summer market, with the club yet to snare one of the major targets.
Edinson Cavani's arrival in Paris has unsettled talisman Zlatan Ibrahimovic, with reports in Spain suggesting the former Barcelona man could sensationally follow Carlo Ancelotti to Real Madrid.
To discuss these and all the other rumors and whispers, Matt Lorenzo is joined by Goal's Greg Stobart and former Chelsea captain Dennis Wise as we go through the latest talk from the transfer market.
Remember, to pose a question to next week's panel, leave your comment below, or Tweet us by using the hashtag, #askgoal
Tom Marshall: Liga MX team-by-team preview
The heroics of Moises Munoz and the wild celebrations that followed Club America lifting their 11th title are all part of the past and a new “Liga Bancomer MX” season is upon us.
This Friday, the Apertura 2013 kicks off with Queretaro hosting Morelia. What follows is a brief guide to the offseason ongoings of each of the 18 teams in Mexico’s top division.America
The big question mark hanging over the champion is how much the loss of lethal goalscorer Christian Benitez will hurt the side. Narciso Mina, Raul Jimenez and Luis Gabriel Rey will seek to replace those missing goals, as well as new signing Andres Aldrete from Colombia’s Deportes Tolima. At the other end of the field, the loss of the calming presence of Diego Reyes will mean it is an uphill task for Las Aguilas to retain the title this season.
Prediction: Playoff places
Atlante
The relegation-threatened, Cancun-based side has invested in experienced duo Martin Galmarini from Tigre and Walter Erviti from Boca Juniors to combine with striker Joaquin Larrivey. It looks good on paper, even with the loss of Esteban Paredes. The problem in recent seasons has been at the back and again Atlante looks shaky in that department. New coach Wilson Graniolatti hasn’t had the best of times over the last few years.
Prediction: Bottom third
Atlas
Off-the-field problems have grown to a level that is sure to affect the players at some point, and a repeat of last season’s third place regular season finish is highly unlikely. Players are still owed wages from last season and the club has admitted its very existence is at peril. However, the strong spine of Miguel Pinto, Leandro Cufre, Facundo Erpen, Rodrigo Millar and Matias Vuoso should make Los Zorros again difficult to defeat. On the down side, new coach Omar Asad is untried in the weird and wonderful world of Mexican soccer, and the loss of speedy winger Isaac Brizuela could be significant.
Prediction: Bottom third of the league
Chiapas FC
It’s difficult to imagine a hastily-assembled Chiapas side, built from the ruins of the old San Luis and Jaguares, doing much this season.
Lucas Viatri from Boca Juniors is the star signing, but the rest of the squad is a mishmash of players led by coach Sergio Bueno, who always seems to be in the relegation fight. That would seem to again be his fate heading into the season, with expectations decidedly low.
Prediction: Last place
Cruz Azul
La Maquina had its heart ripped from them in that final last season against America, and Guillermo Vazquez will be hoping to use it to fire the squad to revenge in the Apertura.
The loss of Teofilo Gutierrez – who may go to River Plate – would be significant, but bringing in Joao Rojas from Morelia was shrewd and none of the other players let go commanded a starting place. Once again Cruz Azul can boast one of the best squads in Mexico, but whether it can break through the psychological barrier that has haunted the Mexico City side in recent years and lift the league trophy is an entirely different matter.
Prediction: Top four
Guadalajara
The signing of Aldo de Nigris coupled with the fine form of Marco Fabian at the Gold Cup has seen a breath of fresh air sweep across Chivas. Plagued with injuries and bad luck last season, Benjamin Galindo’s men are set to produce a much improved performance from their 17th place finish last time out. That 12th title does look beyond them, however, for the simple reason that there are better teams out there.
Prediction: Playoff places
Leon
An improved offense should lift Los Panzas Verdes to a higher finish than the dismal 16th they ended up with last season, with Mauro Boselli potentially one of the best signings in the offseason in Mexico. Franco Arizala will also bring some pace and strength, and Elias Hernandez can revive his career after a fruitless spell at Tigres.
Gustavo Matosas’ side should be one of the best to watch in the league with Luis Montes and Carlos Pena in midfield and a front four of Eisner Loboa, Boselli, Arizala and Dario Burbano.
Prediction: Playoff places
Monterrey
A very good summer for Los Rayados in the transfer market, with Aldo de Nigris’ hole filled by highly-touted Colombian striker Dorlan Pabon, keeps Monterrey in contention. Lucas Silva arrives from Toluca to replace Walter Ayovi, and Efrain Juarez is an intriguing prospect considering his undoubted talent. The Jesus Corona saga rumbles on.
Prediction: Top four
Morelia
Joao Rojas is a major loss and, with European clubs sniffing around Jefferson Montero, it is difficult to predict how Morelia will fare. The signings of Edgar Andrade, Santiago Trellez and Jose Govea have been shrewd, but it is hard to envisage Morelia making the jump from challengers to a real threat.
Prediction: Mid-table
Pachuca
Los Tuzos really splashed out to bring in Duvier Riascos from Club Tijuana and, along with Efrain Cortes, Guti Estrada, Oscar Perez and Walter Ayovi, the loss of Hector Herrera should be covered. Last season Pachuca faded badly at the end and a good start from Gabriel Caballero’s players will be important, with the pressure for the club to succeed growing.
Prediction: Mid-table
Puebla
It’s strange for players to see the same coach return to La Franja from one season to the next, but Manuel Lapuente still has it all to do to get the team into the playoffs. The signings of Leandro Augusto and Alfredo Moreno bode well and alongside DaMarcus Beasley, Matias Alustiza and Leandro Augusto the team has a better chance than in recent seasons.
Prediction: Bottom third
Pumas
A poor preseason means the pressure is already on at UNAM. New Argentine signing Ariel Nahuelpan is charged with bringing the goals that the team lacked last time out. Antonio Torres Servin has a season of experience behind him on the bench and reached the playoffs last time out, although Pumas still look a couple of players short of making a serious challenge for the title.
Prediction: Mid-table
Queretaro
Esteban Paredes should be a big boost for Queretaro – which takes the old Jaguares’ spot for the Apertura 2013. Luis Perez in midfield should also help, although, once again, there is an element of the unknown with Ignacio Ambriz having to blend a lot of new faces together. Defense could be a weakness.
Prediction: Mid-table
Santos Laguna
The losses of Herculez Gomez and Aaron Galindo should be compensated by the arrival of Javier Orozco and Nestor Araujo. Last season’s semifinalist should once again be there or there abouts. Los Guerreros have one of the best squads in the league, with quality oozing through each one of its lines.
Prediction: Top four
Tigres
There shouldn’t be too much difference from last season’s first-place finishers in the regular season, with the added boost of Argentine midfielder Guido Pizarro. Ricardo “Tuca” Ferretti’s team boasts an attack of Danilinho, Damian Alvarez, Lucas Lobos and Emanuel Villa, which is possibly the best in the league. Aligned to that defensive solidity, Tigres is again one of the favorites for the title.
Prediction: First place
Tijuana
The loss of Duvier Riascos is big for Los Xolos for the pace, unorthodoxy and eccentricity he brought to the team in the last third. Antonio Mohamed also leaves the dugout for Jorge Almiron, which could leave a huge hole at the club. U.S. international Herculez Gomez has enough quality to replace Alfredo Moreno quite comfortably, but whether new signing Dario Benedetto can replace Riascos may be asking too much.
Prediction: Playoffs
Toluca
Paraguayan Jose Cardozo returns as coach to the club where he made his name as a player and there are reasons for Toluca fans to be hopeful. Aaron Galindo adds some steel at the back, and Paraguayans Paulo da Silva, Pablo Velazquez, Edgar Benitez and Richard Ortiz should help the new coach settle.
Just how far they can go is hard to predict, but Cardozo might well need this season to get the team playing as he would like.
Prediction: Mid-table
Veracruz
The Tiburones Rojos took the place of La Piedad in the first division and spent big to land Mexico international Angel Reyna as their star signing. Panamanian international Luis Tejada could be the key if he can find his goalscoring boots, but Juan Antonio Luna’s side has a lot of work to do if it is to make an immediate impact in the Liga MX.
Prediction: Bottom third
Tuesday 16 July 2013
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