World Kick Off

Chelsea Launch Mega Kaka Bid

2008-07-18T21:52:00.001-07:00

Chelsea are looking to break football's transfer fee record to sign AC Milan star Kaká.

According to Globoesporte, Chelsea are poised to put together a record-breaking €100 million offer for the services of the Brazil international.

It is reported that talks between the two clubs are at an advanced stage already, with a representative of the player having flown to London earlier this week to engage in talks with the London outfit and hear their offer.

After that, a Chelsea emissary reportedly travelled to Milan to meet with the Rossoneri vice-president, Adriano Galliani, and make their interest official.

Kaká has a valid contract with AC Milan until 2012 and could be tempted to join Stamford Bridge to meet compatriot Scolari, who was appointed as coach earlier this summer.

The creative midfielder is expected in Milan tonight but will not be involved in the negotiations, at least not directly, according to reports.

Should the World Player of The Year agree to join Chelsea, he will become Scolari's second signing while at the club, following in the footsteps of Brazilian-born Deco.

Despite their adamant protests throughout the summer so far - as well as this time last year when Real Madrid came calling - the Rossoneri may be coaxed into selling their star player following the purchase of Ronaldinho, a ready-made replacement who they bought at a fraction of the price.

Vice-president Adriano Galliani in fact touched on the issue of a possible sale just under two weeks ago, ruling out the notion despite their debt. “The fans should be happy, as all we’d need to do in order to wipe out or debts is sell Kaka and Andrea Pirlo," he explained. "Instead they won’t move, so if that’s not a show of love for this side, I don’t know what is."

However, the debts remain a problem and, should the likes of Didier Drogba be included as part of the deal, it may prove too good to turn down.

Luís Mira

sigombak

Lampard To Demand Inter Sale Within 48 Hours

2008-07-16T04:10:00.000-07:00

According to the Corriere della Sera, Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard will demand within the next 48 hours that he be allowed to join Inter Milan.

Lampard’s proposed move to Inter has become something of a soap opera this summer. The Nerazzurri have had an initial €10m bid for the England international rejected, and although the 30-year-old appears to want to move to San Siro, Chelsea, and in particular owner Roman Abramovich, have no intention of selling him.

Reports in the English press over the weekend suggested that Lampard would see out the final year of his Chelsea contract before signing for Inter on a Bosman transfer in the summer of 2009.

However, the Corriere della Sera is now claiming that Lampard, who has so far remained quiet on the matter, will openly declare his intentions to join Inter immediately within the next 48 hours.

It is also claimed that Abramovich may be persuaded to do business with Inter, provided troubled Brazilian striker Adriano is included in some form of player exchange deal.

‘The Emperor’ has had a miserable two years on-and-off the pitch, and has spent the last six months on loan at Sao Paulo. Having since rediscovered some of his best form, and returned to Inter, his future with the Italians is still uncertain given the presence of a whole host of top class strikers such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Julio Cruz and Mario Balotelli.

If the Nerazzurri fail to lure Lampard to San Siro, they will instead focus their attentions back on Porto’s Ricardo Quaresma.

Luca Capofranco

sigombak

Rampant Spain Crush Russia

2008-06-26T20:38:00.000-07:00

Spanyol-Rusia 3:0

Another stormy night in Vienna saw Spain outclass Russia and set up a final with Germany. Goals from Xavi, Guiza and Silva were enough to see off Gus Hiddink’s men who were outplayed by a vibrant Spanish side, who also lost top scorer David Villa to injury in the first half.

An engaging first half ended goalless although both sides had their chances. Spain started the game marginally the quicker of the two sides, Xavi bending in an early cross which Sergio Ramos just failed to connect with and Villa and Torres combining well moments later, but Torres, after swivelling past his marker, could only manage a weak shot at goal.

The Russians slowly grew into the game and with the much vaunted Arshavin being well marshalled by the Spanish defence it was fellow striker Pavlyuchenko who had the best chances for Gus Hiddink’s side.

A free kick from fully 40 yards which flew inches over was his first warning, quickly followed by a speculative shot from range which he tried to bend past Casillas. His shot may have been going wide but the Real Madrid goalkeeper was taking no chances and managed to tip it around the post.

After losing their group game to the Spaniards 4-1, the Russians were clearly growing in confidence as the match progressed and just after the half hour mark they had even more reason to be happy.

David Villa, the tournament’s top scorer and the man who had hit a hat trick when the two sides had met earlier in the tournament was taken off injured. However, Russian joy was surely short lived as his replacement Cesc Fabregas had also scored against the Russians.

The change interrupted Spain’s rhythmn momentarily and Russia continued to pose a threat. Pavlyuchenko, again having the best chances, heading wide from an Anyukov cross before missing the target again with another shot, after chesting down a long ball inside the box.

As the half drew to a close Spain came back into the game, their slick passing once again in evidence and Torres taking advantage of Zhirkov’s forward runs and causing a problem down the right. However, neither side could make the crucial breakthrough and they headed for the interval level.

The deadlock didn’t last long and within five minutes of the restart Spain were ahead, their Barcelona midfielders combining to deadly effect. Some great work from Iniesta on the left saw him eventually put the ball into the box where Xavi, making a great run, was on hand to poke the ball home to give the Spanish the lead.

The goal galvanised Spain and they threatened to take an unshakeable hold on the game. Gus Hiddink responded with a double substitution throwing on Bilyaletidinov and Sychev but the Russians were left chasing shadows as the Spanish began to zip the ball around with confidence and completely dominate possession.

With Villa watching miserably from the sidelines the chances fell to Fernando Torres. Twice in a matter of minutes, on the hour mark, he had the opportunity to double Spain’s lead but his shooting was wayward and the Russians survived.

They were to prove his last chances, Luis Aragones choosing to replace Xavi and Torres with Alonso and Güiza. The strength in depth of Spain’s squad clearly in evidence and the substitutes combined well to double Spain’s lead with a little under twenty minutes to go.

Sergio Ramos again breaking down the right played the ball into Fabregas whose dinked ball over the top found Güiza running in on goal. A delightful finish by the substitute made it two nil and gave the Spanish some breathing space.

With a two goal lead the Spanish were now completely dominant, their short, slick passing game simply too much for the Russians. With ten minutes to go, they made it three to give the match the scoreline their superior football deserved.

Iniesta was again involved, setting Fàbregas free on the left. The young Arsenal man, who must have been wondering if he had done enough to find himself in the starting line up for Sunday’s final, found Silva in the box with a perfect pass and the Valencia man finished well past Akinfeev to put the gloss on a wonderful night for Spain.

Although the Russians couldn’t live with Spain defeat holds little shame for Hiddink’s men who have illuminated this tournament and surprised many by reaching the semi final. Arshavin and Pavlyuchenko, in particular, have produced some memorable moments and Hiddink’s already fearsome reputation, can only have been enhanced further.

Spain, meanwhile, must now go into Sunday’s final against Germany full of confidence. The quality of their football and the strength in depth of their squad is without question, although even then Villa's presumed absence from the final will be a hard knock to take.

After so much disappointment the question is now, could this finally be their year? With footballers of the quality of Villa, Torres, Iniesta, Xavi and Fabregas they have no reason to fear any side. However, whilst Germany have largely been unconvincing so far it would be dangerous to write them off; Sunday’s final promises much.

GOALS:
0-3 Spain (Silva, 81)
0-2 Spain (Guiza, 72)
0-1 Spain (Xavi, 49)

Russia: Akinfeev, Anyukov, Berezutski, Ignashevich, Zhirkov, Zyryanov, Semak, Semshov (Bilyaletidinov, 55), Saenko (Sychev, 56), Arshavin, Pavlyuchenko

Spain: Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Puyol, Marchena, Capdevila, Senna, Iniesta, Xavi (Alonso, 68), Silva, David Villa (Fàbregas, 34), Torres (Güiza, 68)

Gill Clark

sigombak

Happy 40th Birthday Paolo Maldini!

2008-06-26T08:18:00.000-07:00

Football legend Paolo Maldini has reached yet another landmark, as the AC Milan symbol celebrates his 40th birthday today.
Maldini made his debut for Milan way back in January 1985, however almost a quarter-of-a-century later he is still going strong.

During his entire club career with the Rossoneri he has won seven Scudetti, one Coppa Italia, five Italian Super Cups, five Champions League titles, five European Super Cups and three World Club Cups.

He is both Milan and Italy’s all-time appearance maker, and is regarded by some as the best defender in the history of the game.

“Birthday wishes from the hearts of everyone at the club,” reads a statement on Milan’s official website.

“After a 23-year career and 1009 official games in the League, Cup and for his nation, Maldini decided to stay for another season.

“That choice brought such joy to all the fans, who woke up this morning thinking about him on his birthday.”

Maldini was due to retire from football this summer. However some brilliant performances last season from the defender saw have a change of heart, and he recently signed a one year extension until 2009.

From everyone at Goal.com

sigombak

Ronaldo To United: I'll Be There

2008-06-26T08:13:00.000-07:00

The saga surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo has taken yet another twist after he reportedly phoned Manchester United to inform he will return for pre-season training…

According to The Sun, the Portuguese superstar has given his word that he will be at Carrington on July 10 as scheduled, thus putting paid to claims he will be leaving United within the next few weeks.

It is the first time this month that the 23-year-old has made contact with the Red Devils, having snubbed the club’s attempts to reach him while he was at EURO 2008 with Portugal.

It was reported the two-time PFA Player of the Year refused to answer Sir Alex Ferguson’s calls amid the chaos surrounding his possible ₤70million move to Real Madrid.

Ferguson responded in kind after the former Sporting Lisbon sensation revealed his desire to make the switch, refusing to break off his summer holiday and thus meaning negotiations could not commence.

Ronaldo has since scrapped his plans to return to Manchester this week for an assessment of his injured foot, instead opting to take a holiday himself.

The Seleccao winger may be eager to kill two birds with one stone when he arrives in the North-West next month, perhaps hoping to have his foot sorted out immediately before discussing his future with Ferguson – who returns to work on July 1 – or vice versa.

Mike Maguire

sigombak

Ronaldinho's brother and agent, Roberto de Assis, has told Setanta that while Manchester City are leading the race for the Barcelona forward......

2008-06-04T10:37:00.000-07:00

Ronaldinho's brother and agent, Roberto de Assis, has told Setanta that while Manchester City are leading the race for the Barcelona forward, there are currently no new developments...

AC Milan's interest in the striker is long-standing, but De Assis admits that at this stage it could be a lost cause.

But with Manchester City having confirmed Mark Hughes as manager, moneyman Thaksin Shinawatra may work towards a move for Ronnie shortly.

“They [City] have been one of the most interested clubs and I attended meetings with them,” De Assis said.

“But my brother’s transfer is far from easy because they have to agree with many parts and we are looking for the best sport option for him.

“The best options are in England and Italy but we cannot close any door.

“There has not been any important news about Ronaldinho’s future in the last few days.

“We are in touch with clubs and Barcelona are aware of it, but negotiations are stalling.”

'Dinho is set for a quiet summer in Porto Alegre as he recovers from his injury.

sigombak

Big Guns On Alert As Villa Made Available For £17m - Report

2008-06-04T10:29:00.000-07:00

Contrary to earlier reports that Valencia valued their star David Villa at €40 million, the Daily Mail reports that he could leave the club for as little as £17 million...

The Spanish international is being watched by Real Madrid, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, with Arsenal - a club he singled out for praise last month - also outside contenders for his signature.

Despite winning the Copa del Rey this season, Valencia are in complete disarray following their group stage elimination from the Champions League and near-relegation in La Liga and will have to sell at least one of their big name stars in order to stay afloat and indeed rebuild for the future.

The striker has insisted that he will not decide on his future until after Euro 2008, and should this prove to be the case, a good campaign may well see £17 million rise to much more, though it is highly unlikely Valencia will get anything in the region of the €40 million they are hopeful of netting for the ex-Real Zaragoza man.

Real Madrid are thought to be at the head of the queue for the 26-year-old, with Chelsea close behind and Tottenham perhaps slightly out of their financial weight class.

Fernando Montabon, Goal.com

Leave Liverpool, Riise To Roma?

2008-06-04T01:35:00.000-07:00

Reports from the continent claim Roma are preparing to pounce for Liverpool defender John Arne Riise...

Stampa Articolo Invia ad un amico Contatta la redazione galleria zoom The Norwegian left-back is uncertain of his future at Anfield, having fallen out of favour with manager Rafa Benitez over the last two seasons.

With Fabio Aurelio establishing himself as the Reds first choice on the left side of defence, and Andreas Dossena on the verge of joining from Udinese, Riise could well be shown the door this summer.

Many believe the 26-year-old’s fate was sealed during the Champions League semi-final against Chelsea, when he headed into his own net in the first leg and was at fault for Didier Drogba’s winner in the second leg.

Aston Villa and Newcastle have expressed interest in the former Monaco man, but sources in Italy suggest Roma could nip in with a ₤5million bid.

Giallorossi boss Luciano Spalletti is keen strengthen his defensive options ahead of next season, having identified both full-back slots as the team's major weakness.

Mike Maguire

Ronaldo Stay In Manchester

2008-06-03T19:55:00.000-07:00

Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo has further fuelled rumours of his possible departure, reportedly telling his friends and family he will leave the club after next season.

The Portuguese superstar has been heavily linked with move to Real Madrid, who have been hounding for his signature over the last few months.

The 23-year-old is yet to dismiss the possibility of a switch to the Santiago Bernabeu, although United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is confident the incumbent PFA Player of the Year will remain at Old Trafford.

But according to The Sun, the former Sporting Lisbon sensation and his agent Jorge Mendes are planning an exit strategy that would take effect next summer.

Ronaldo reportedly told his nearest and dearest: “If I don’t leave Manchester United now, I certainly will in a year.”

Mike Maguire

English Player Always Fail In Serie A

2008-06-03T11:35:00.000-07:00

Lampard Move To Inter?

Will move Frank Lampard Issues from Chelsea to Inter Milan along the former its coach ( JOSE MOURINHO) train the this klub serie A generate a number of all question mark instruct at past experience of English player acting in italian Serie A.

Whether Mr. Lampard which so shine in League Premier will can also like that in Italian League.
From first, English player Seldom be successful when strengthening one of team in Italian League.

Just Mention, David Platt with Sampdoria, successful insufficient because seldom play at. Then there is Paul Gascoigne which is the more amount its problem when strengthening Lazio.

There also Paul Ince which is when entering direct Inter Milan take hold of the team captain, previous in MU also become the captain. Along time, occupation of captain Ince loosened and returned to Giuseppe Bergomi.

Whether Frank Lampard can show the prima appearance, as prima as when he is in Chelsea? Or " anathema" all English player which always fail to shine in Serie A also go into effect for he’s

Before that, move issues Lampard also we have to wait the in reality....

Lampard Mourinho's Top Target As Essien Move Becomes Unreal

2008-06-03T11:19:00.000-07:00

Newly appointed Internazionale boss Jose Mourinho has reportedly made Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard his top priority in the transfer market.

The Special One is almost certain to raid his old hunting ground at Stamford Bridge this summer as he seeks to stamp his mark on the Inter squad, and club president Massimo Moratti is expected to back his new manager to the hilt.

The charismatic Portuguese is expected to have around ₤100 million to work with between now and the end of August, but Moratti has claimed he does not expect wholesale changes.

“I have read lots of names but I have yet to speak with him [Mourinho] about the transfer market,” he said. “I would like to change very little of this squad which has won so much.”

Mega Buys

Such a statement suggests the Nerazzurri are in the market for a few choice mega-buys, a modus operandi Mourinho is more than familiar with following his tenure under Chelsea boss Roman Abramovich.

One of those Blues buys was Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien, for whom the former Porto boss was recently reported to be lining up a ₤24 million bid.

The former Lyon star has established himself among the best box-to-box players in the world in recent seasons, and hence Chelsea will be loath to let one of their most consistent and dangerous performers leave.

Shift

With that move looking increasingly unfeasible, Mourinho has shifted his attention slightly further up the pitch to Lampard, with whom he has been constantly linked since departing west London in September.

The England international is yet to agree a new contract with the Blues, who have so far failed to meet his wage demands of over ₤130,000-per-week.

The 29-year-old has one year remaining on his current deal at Stamford Bridge, and with increased competition next season from resurgent German star Michael Ballack and upcoming Nigerian John Obi Mikel, a move to San Siro could prove too tempting for Lampard to refuse.

The former West Ham man could be just one among several Mourinho loyalists set to make the switch, with striker Didier Drogba and defender Ricardo Carvalho also reported to be seeking a Chelsea exit.

Mike Maguire

Mourinho Pledges Greatness

Jose Mourinho has given his first press conference as the new boss of Inter, and he has announced himself on the Italian scene by describing himself as a "great coach."

Mourinho was announced as the new coach of Inter yesterday afternoon, replacing three-time Scudetto winner Roberto Mancini, who was shown the exit door last week.

The Portuguese tactician announced himself as the new manager of Chelsea four years ago by describing himself as the 'Special One', and he appeared to have lost none of his supreme self confidence during his first press conference today as the new boss of Inter.

“I have arrived at a special club. I think I am a great Coach but I don’t want to be special," he stated.

“I am always myself and I don’t change. I am the same person as I ever was and I have that same mission and passion for my work.

“I have always thought that I would like to work in Italy and for a big club and I want to thank Massimo Moratti and Marco Branca for giving me this opportunity.

“This is a very important challenge for me, but I think that it will also be very enjoyable for you.”

The 45-year-old Mourinho has a stunning managerial record despite his young age, having won two Portuguese championships, a Portuguese Cup, a UEFA Cup and Champions League with Porto, as well as two Premier Leagues, an FA Cup and two league cups among his honours at Chelsea.

Luca Capofranco

Ronaldinho sign for Manchester City on a £200,000-per-week world-record contract

2008-06-03T04:36:00.000-07:00

The club are still in the process of finding a replacement for manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, who they parted company with yesterday, although Blackburn Rovers coach Mark Hughes is expected to be confirmed in the Eastlands dug-out within the next 48 hours.

City slicker: but could Brazilian playmaker Ronaldinho really be turning out at Eastlands?

However, the managerial vacuum at the club has not stopped owner Thaksin Shinawatra from pressing forward with his plans to lure the former two-time Fifa World Player of the Year to the City of Manchester stadium for the start of next season, regardless of who will be in charge at the club.

Sources close to Thaksin say that members of City's Thai board are due to fly out to the player's home city of Porto Alegre in Brazil to meet with him face to face this weekend.

Should the club also manage to the secure the services of CSKA Moscow's £20 million-rated Brazilian forward Jo, then whoever does eventually take charge at Eastlands could have an explosive all-Brazilian front line at his disposal to kick off the new Premier League season.

In recent months Ronaldinho, 28, has reportedly had a tour of the City of Manchester stadium and it's facilities, while his brother and agent Roberto De Assis has also held a series of meetings with Thaksin's right-hand man, Pairoj Piempongsant, to discuss the potential transfer.

advertisement
Meanwhile, talks have been held with the Brazil international's main sponsors Nike, as well as with other potential investors who would help fund the player's massive wage demands, with Ronaldindo said to want £200,000 per week, a wage that would make him the world's highest-paid footballer.

By Richard Morgan

Football

Ferguson: Ronaldo Will Stay In Manchester

2008-06-02T20:48:00.000-07:00

Sir Alex Ferguson is convinced Cristiano Ronaldo will be at Manchester United next season, despite the predatory advances of Real Madrid…

The Portuguese winger is yet to commit his future to United following a landmark season, in which he scored an incredible 42 goals while collecting winner’s medals for the Premier League and Champions League.

Los Merengues have relentlessly and publicly pursued the 23-year-old over the past month or so, much to the chagrin of everyone at Old Trafford.

But Ferguson is used to Madrid’s media mind-games, and is confident that Ronaldo will stay with the Red Devils for many years to come.

“I’m very confident about that,” said Ferguson. “It’s a game Real play all the time.

“In the past they’ve done it with David Beckham, they’ve done it with Van Nistelrooy, they’ve done it with my fitness coach last summer — so we’re used to it.

“I am more than confident Cristiano will be with us next year. The Glazer family will not be messed about in this situation.

“We want Cristiano to stay for a long, long time. He is on a fantastic contract and quite rightly so — he’s the best player in the world.”

Mike Maguire

Beckham To Ronaldo: You Should Stay At Manchester

2008-06-02T20:44:00.000-07:00

In perhaps one of the most ironic twists in this dramatic transfer saga, former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder David Beckham has urged Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at United despite overtures from the Spanish capital...

Beckham, now of Major League Soccer outfit LA Galaxy, moved from Manchester United to Madrid in 2003 after something of a falling out between he and manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Ronaldo was bought from Sporting Lisbon that same summer and given Beckham's number seven - formerly belonging to King Eric Cantona and a host of other United legends.

While Beckham could not emulate his United success with los Merengues, Ronaldo has, after a few years of bedding in, grown to be one of if not the best player in the world, sealing that status with a goal in United's Champions League win last month in Moscow, as part of a double with the club's second successive Premier League.

Beckham has urged Ronaldo to stay with the Red Devils insisting that, unlike himself, the Portuguese is still very much at the beginning of his United career, despite having been there for five years.

"I believe he's at the right club and a club he should stay at because as much as Real Madrid are a great team and one of the biggest clubs in the world, he's only just starting at Manchester United," explained Beckham.

"He's only been there a few years. He's got a lot of people around him who will protect him. As a fan of Manchester United I hope he stays there but who knows?

"It's none of my business. All I'm going to say to him is congratulations on an amazing season. I'm sure he'll be crowned world player of the year and he deserves it."

Brian O'Ryan, Goal.com

Lampard Mourinho's Top Target

2008-06-02T20:41:00.000-07:00

Footbal News-Newly appointed Internazionale boss Jose Mourinho has reportedly made Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard his top priority in the transfer market…

The Special One is almost certain to raid his old hunting ground at Stamford Bridge this summer as he seeks to stamp his mark on the Inter squad, and club president Massimo Moratti is expected to back his new manager to the hilt.

The charismatic Portuguese is expected to have around ₤100 million to work with between now and the end of August, but Moratti has claimed he does not expect wholesale changes.

“I have read lots of names but I have yet to speak with him [Mourinho] about the transfer market,” he said. “I would like to change very little of this squad which has won so much.”

Mega Buys

Such a statement suggests the Nerazzurri are in the market for a few choice mega-buys, a modus operandi Mourinho is more than familiar with following his tenure under Chelsea boss Roman Abramovich.

One of those Blues buys was Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien, for whom the former Porto boss was recently reported to be lining up a ₤24 million bid.

The former Lyon star has established himself among the best box-to-box players in the world in recent seasons, and hence Chelsea will be loath to let one of their most consistent and dangerous performers leave.

Shift

With that move looking increasingly unfeasible, Mourinho has shifted his attention slightly further up the pitch to Lampard, with whom he has been constantly linked since departing west London in September.

The England international is yet to agree a new contract with the Blues, who have so far failed to meet his wage demands of over ₤130,000-per-week.

The 29-year-old has one year remaining on his current deal at Stamford Bridge, and with increased competition next season from resurgent German star Michael Ballack and upcoming Nigerian John Obi Mikel, a move to San Siro could prove too tempting for Lampard to refuse.

The former West Ham man could be just one among several Mourinho loyalists set to make the switch, with striker Didier Drogba and defender Ricardo Carvalho also reported to be seeking a Chelsea exit.

Mike Maguire

Chelsea offer Frank Lampard lucrative new deal to stave off Inter Milan interest

2008-06-02T02:47:00.000-07:00

Chelsea have offered Frank Lampard a new £130,000 a week contract in a desperate bid to prevent the England midfielder from leaving.

The deal would put Lampard, who has one year on his current contract left to run, on the same salary as John Terry, the Chelsea captain.

According to the Daily Mirror, Lampard has stalled on signing a new contract for the past two years and is said to be considering a move to Inter Milan, who are expected to announce former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho as their new coach this week. Lampard, who is on holiday in Dubai where he is considering his options, had a close relationship with Mourinho and played a key role in the Portuguese's Chelsea team that won back-to-back Premier League titles.

However, Lampard was deeply touched by the support Chelsea gave him when his mother died recently, and that could prove a factor in his decision over his future. Another issue that could sway Lampard's mind is Chelsea's choice of manager following the sacking of Avram Grant, with Portugal coach Luis Felipe Scolari and Dutchman Frank Rijkaard now said to be the frontrunners for the job.
advertisement

The Daily Express quotes a Chelsea source as saying: "Frank is tempted by the prospect of joining up with Jose again. They still have a really close relationship and Frank regards the period when he worked with Jose as the best time of his career. He still has a great affection for Chelsea, but he feels the time may now be right to move on.

"It is a massive decision. Frank feels indebted to the club for the way they supported him after the death of his mother."

By Telegraph staff
Last Updated: 8:46am BST 02/06/2008

Manchester Bid Lyon £20 Million for Benzama

2008-06-02T02:40:00.000-07:00

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is preparing a £20 million bid for Lyon striker Karim Benzema as he looks to secure the youngster's signature before the start of Euro 2008.

Print This Story Send To A Friend Contact Us galleria zoom The likes of Chelsea, Barcelona and Real Madrid have all been linked with the 20-year old, who is one of Europe’s most promising youngsters after again impressing this campaign, firing twenty goals as Lyon claimed their seventh consecutive league title.

Ferguson, who has become increasingly frustrated with Louis Saha’s injury problems this season, is now set to move for Benzema within the next week to avoid having to pay more should the youngster impress for France this summer.

If The Red Devils fail in their bid to land the player already dubbed a new Bleus legend in France, Ferguson has a shortlist of forward candidates which includes Tottenham Hotspur’s majestic striker Dimitar Berbatov, Sevilla’s Fabiano and West Ham United’s Dean Ashton.

The 66-year old has been handed a hefty transfer budget by the club’s owner Malcolm Glazer, an amount that could be made all the larger should Cristiano Ronaldo opt to leave Old Trafford for Real Madrid within the next three days.

William Wood

AC Milan sign Zambrotta from Barcelona

2008-06-01T10:32:00.000-07:00

AC Milan have signed Italy international defender Gianluca Zambrotta from Barcelona, the Serie A club announced on Sunday.

Zambrotta has been a long-term target for former European champions AC Milan.

Milan did not release financial details, but Gazzetta dello Sport reported that the former European champions paid $14 million for Zambrotta and will pay another $3.1 million if they finish in the top three in Serie A next season.

Milan finished fifth in Serie A and had to settle for a UEFA Cup place -- and lost in the first round of the knockout stages to Arsenal in their unsuccessful defense of the Champions League last season.

Zambrotta, 31, joined Barcelona from Juventus after Italy's 2006 World Cup triumph. He had spent seven-years at Juve who were relegated for their part in a match fixing scandal.

The defender is key member of the Italy team that will play in the European Championship this month in Switzerland and Austria and has been a target for Milan for some time.

Milan needed a defender after Brazilian fullbacks Cafu and Serginho left at the end of the campaign while veteran Paolo Maldini is also yet to sign a new deal for what will be his final season.

Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini was Milan's first signing for next season and several more deals are expected this summer.(CNN) --

Will Recuring Greece Bombshell At Euro 2008?

2008-06-01T05:27:00.000-07:00

Football mathematics like bowled over at 2004, when Greece come up as Europe champion, because since 1960 newly once go forward to quarterfinal rotation ( 2000), but four year later;then surprising when coming up as champion in Portugal.

Nowadays Greece come up again. In rotation of final of Grup D with Swedia, Russia And Spanyol [of] [at] 12-15-19 June. All contest performed will play at Stadium of Waltz Slezenheim, Austrian.

Otto Rehhagel team the achievement spektakuler at semi final, because from 12 contest start the end 2006 till 21 November 2007, for once fail and break even once.

At that semi final, by surprising Turky defeat the Greece 4-1 and Norwegian arrest; detain the them 2-2. From that 12 exclusion fight, Goal Greece 25 times and entrance 10 goal. As comparison, at exclusion Euro 2004, Greece only print eight goal from eight contest.

But contest of warm-up of last contest Hungaria 24 May, Greek swallow the bitter pill after failing 2-3 and Rehhagel hope that matter become the Iesson worth to all player. That drubbing represent first since August last year

In that tryout, brittle Greek defender very, so that gate which taken care of Antonis Nikolopolidis goal thrice only in range of time 16 minute

In that contest, Rahhagel enough worry, because two reliable player, Nikopolidis And Angelos Basinas experience of to injure, even they is reckoned will descend at contest 12 June of versus Sweden.

Greece Skuads for the rotation of final Euro 2008

Goalkeeper: 1-Antonis Nikopolidis ( Olympiakos Piraeus), 12-Costas Chalkias ( Aris Salonika), 13-Alexandros Tzorvas ( OFI Crete)

Stopper: 2-Giourkas Seitaridis ( Atletico Madrid), 3-Christos Patsatzoglou ( Olympiakos), 4-Nikos Spyropoulos ( Panathinaikos), 5-Traianos Dellas ( AEK Athens), 11-Loukas Vintra ( Panathinaikos), 15-Vassilis Torosidis ( Olympiakos), 16-Sotiris Kyrgiakos ( Eintracht Frankfurt), 18-Yannis Goumas ( Panathinaikos), 19-Paraskevas Antzas ( Olympiakos)

Middle Player: 6-Angelos Basinas ( Real Mallorca), 8-Stelios Giannakopoulos ( Bolton Wanderers), 10-Georgios Karagounis ( Panathinaikos), 21-Costas Katsouranis ( Benfica), 22-Alexandros Tziolis (Panathinaikos)

Forward: 7-Giorgos Samaras ( Celtic), 9-Angelos Haristeas ( Nuremberg), 14-Dimitris Salpigidis ( Panathinaikos), 17-Fanis Gekas ( Bayer Leverkusen), 20-Yiannis Amanatidis ( Eintracht Frankfurt), 23-Nikos Liberopoulos ( AEK).

Adriano Glad With Brazil Return

2008-06-01T03:10:00.000-07:00

Inter Milan striker Adriano said after the game that he was really happy to have returned to the Brazilian national squad...

The powerful striker, who returned to Seleção after an absence of almost 18 months from international football, played during the second-half of Brazil's 3-2 friendly win over Canada.

Although Adriano did not score in his return, he had a good chance on goal and even played Alexandre Pato through with a superb pass in what was a fairly good display from the former Parma player.

The 26-year-old said that playing again for Brazil will be very important to his recovery process, adding that he will continue working to be a regular call-up.

"It is very important to defend the Brazilian squad again," he said after the game. "It is good to be back, but this is a long road, I have to work really hard to get a place in the team."

Adriano, who is currently on loan at São Paulo, will return to Inter Milan at the end of the season although he does not know whether incoming coach, José Mourinho, is including him in his first-team plans.

Luís Mira

Zambrotta Signs For Milan From Barcelona?

2008-06-01T03:04:00.000-07:00

Milan have finally captured Barcelona defender Gianluca Zambrotta after reaching a deal with the Blaugrana on Saturday night.

The club have announced the news following months of speculation linking the player with a move back to Italy.

Zambrotta is believed to have arrived on a three year deal from the Camp Nou side and reports in Italy claim Milan paid €8.5m for him. He will earn around €4m per season.

A statement on the club’s official website reads:

“It’s now official. Gianluca Zambrotta is now a Milan player.

“The defender is about to play in the European Championship with Italy and he leaves Barcelona to strengthen the Milan defence.”

Only hours ago, Galliani hinted that his side needed someone like Zambro and his wish has been granted. Zambrotta has always stated his desire to play for the Rossoneri in the past and he has given up Champions League football next season in order to return to Italy.

He will now be looking to partner former Azzurri team mate Alessandro Nesta in defence.

The Rossoneri have, so far, strengthened their midfield and their defence. All they need now is a goalkeeper and a decent striker.

Salvatore Landolina

Ronaldo: News In Three Days

2008-06-01T03:01:00.000-07:00

Manchester United hot-shot Cristiano Ronaldo has stated that the final decision over his future will be announced by Tuesday...

The Portuguese ace has been tipped for a move to Real Madrid, with Manchester United apparently unwilling to off-load their star, who scored 42 goals in all competitions this season, despite big-money approaches from the Spanish club.

And Ronaldo, who is reported to be interested in a move to Santiago Bernabéu, has ensured that his future will be decided next week.

"Let's see, I hope there will be news soon. In two or three days I will announce my decision," he said after the game against Georgia.

On Portugal's display against Georgia, Ronaldo, who played during the first-half, said that he was happy with the 2-0 win and with his own level of play.

"I felt fine in the game, from now on I only have to make maintenance. I have realized that my level won't drop, just like it won't raise.

"I will be in good form in Euro, and I really want to make a good tournament," he added.

Luís Mira

Roma Wanted Zambrotta And Eto'o

2008-05-31T11:36:00.000-07:00

Roma coach Luciano Spalletti knows that he cannot have too many new world class players, but is at least hoping that the club can allow him to sign two important ones in the coming months.

Spalletti is already thinking about being more competitive next season but insists that Roma do not need a number of signings.

"We need two players, not six," explained the former Udinese coach. "Obviously if someone leaves, then we would need to replace him, but costs still need to be evaluated.

Zambrotta And Eto'o - Dream Buys

Asked which players he would pick if he could have any two, he responded: “I would choose Samuel Eto’o and Gianluca Zambrotta, if I could have anyone.

"Conti and Prade try to please me. They know we have a great core of players, and just need a couple of world class ones to perfect it.

"Mancini? To have a good relationship with someone doesn’t necessarily mean coming to an agreement with that person," he said, when asked about his start winger's future.

“It just means that you are in talks and you are moving things forward. This has happened with Mancini, but also with several other players who had good seasons.”

Aquiani, Doni and De Rossi

Alberto Aquilani is set to spurn the advances of Arsenal and stay put, while Alexander Doni has decided to pen a new deal. “He has said the right things,” Spalletti said of Aquilani.

“He was the only person I phoned at Coverciano.

“I spoke to him on Monday evening and he said exactly what he said to the press to me.”

Spalletti also spoke of Daniele De Rossi's future.

“There won’t be any problems because the club know the player that he is,” he insisted. “He has shown his attachment to the shirt on lots of occasions and will remain linked to this project.”

Glenn Debattista

Tevez Hints At Spain Move

2008-05-31T11:32:00.000-07:00

Manchester United forward Carlos Tevez has planted a seed of doubt regarding his future at the club, revealing he dreams of playing in Spain…

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is keen to sign the Argentine international on a permanent deal, as he is currently on-loan from international investors’ group Media Sports Investment.

The former Corinthians star was strongly linked with a move to the continent last summer before joining the Red Devils from West Ham, having earned interest from the likes of Inter Milan and Real Madrid.

Los Merengues are currently hot on the heels of United winger Cristiano Ronaldo, who has yet to definitively commit his future to the current English and European champions.

And now Tevez has thrown a spanner in the works by admitting he hopes to play in La Liga, although he insisted he is content at Old Trafford for the time being.

“Maybe one day I’ll play in the Spanish league but there’s a long way to go,” said the 24-year-old.

“At the moment I am happy here. I know many South Americans prefer to play in Italy or Spain when they move to Europe.

“But I’m happy here. It’s the best league in the world.”

Mike Maguire

Chivu Move To Barcelona For €20m

2008-05-31T11:27:00.000-07:00

Christian Chivu’s agent, Giovanni Becali, believes his client will remain at Inter but he has not ruled out a move to Spanish giants Barcelona.

Reports in Italy have suggested that Chivu’s future at Inter is looking bleak with the imminent arrival of former Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho.

The Portuguese tactician is an admirer of Chivu but he is likely to try and sign his beloved Riccardo Carvalho from Chelsea. This could cause problems for the Romanian defender and there is a possibility that he may leave San Siro.

“Chivu is a player which Mourinho likes a lot and so I think that the Nerazzurri wouldn’t want to deprive themselves of him,” Becali told Teleradistereo.

“However, in football, you can never say never and if Barcelona put down a €20m offer then we would open talks with them.

“But, as I said before, Chivu has just won the league and he enjoyed a great season with Inter and so it’s unlikely he will leave.

“I am good friends with Barcelona directors and a couple of days ago I was involved in a football match with Guardiola but we didn’t talk about Chivu.”

The Romanian international signed from Roma last year in a €16m deal and Barcelona would have to stump up more than this if they are to have a chance of luring him to Camp Nou.

There are fears that Mourinho will off-load several players when he arrives and Chivu could be one of them. He may even propose a Chivu - Carvalho swap deal with Chelsea.

Salvatore Landolina

Beckham Hails 'Top Class' Terry

2008-05-30T11:50:00.001-07:00

England international David Beckham hailed compatriot John Terry for his successful outing against the United States on Wednesday, a week after his penalty miss in the Champions League final...

John Terry was the width of a post away from winning Chelsea the Champions League in their first ever final against Manchester United in Moscow, only to slip as he took the kick, miss, and see the Red Devils go on to clinch glory in sudden death.

As if the emotional baggage from that experience was not enough, the Blues skipper was accused of spitting at Carlos Tevez and is now facing a UEFA investigation.

Going into Wednesday's England game, there were rumours he may even lose his chance at regaining the England captaincy - which, despite holding under ex-England boss Steve McClaren, he had yet to wear under Fabio Capello.

However, as the former Real Madrid, Juventus and Milan manager continues his captaincy rotation policy in order to find his ideal on-field leader, Terry got the nod, almost as if to say that if he could come back from the horrendous week he had just endured, he was truly captain material.

And come back he did. It was not his best performance - ironically, that honour would probably go to his showing in Moscow - but he scored a beautiful header and remained solid at the back, completing a perfect comeback performance after his Moscow misery, and all as captain of his country.

Former captain Beckham, who resigned after the 2006 World Cup, hailed Terry's strength and class, as well as giving his take on the emotions that the die-hard stopper must currently be dealing with.

"Just because of his disappointment last week, doesn't change John Terry as a person and a player," said Beckham.

"He is still going to be a top class player, he is still going to be a top class captain and he is still going to be a great sort of guy as well.

"We were all happy he scored the goal for England and put in the performance like he did. You could see the emotion going through him and in his eyes once he scored that goal and was celebrating.

"There was a slight relief there for him but as a team and as team-mates we were all pleased and proud for him.

"You see that passion sometimes. You saw that in Stuart Pearce's face when he scored that penalty in Euro '96 and you saw it in JT's face when he scored against the United States.

"To be captain and also to score a goal at Wembley means a lot to JT and no-one can ever question him when he puts that England shirt or Chelsea shirt on.

"No-one can ever question his passion and dedication.

"John is still going to be hurting, of course, but he will get over it. It will take time but he will get over it.

"A lot has been made this week of the disappointment JT is going through and you can see the pain in him is still there and it will be there for a while.

"But he is a character who will get over it. He is one of the strongest characters I have ever come across in football. He has got a lot of support within the England team and outside the team and at his club.

"I watched the Champions League final. I think to just step up to take a penalty in that situation means you have to be a strong character and a strong man to do that.

"Penalties are hard because if you score one, you can be a hero and if you miss one, it is different but he was man enough to stand up and take that penalty.''

Serious

Of Capello's new England regime - who Beckham famously played under in a rocky but ultimately successful 2006/07 season at Real Madrid - Becks noted: "The players are learning he is very strict and very serious and, when you train, you train hard, and when you play, you play hard and when you are with the England team, you concentrate and wear that shirt with pride.

"The players know what he wants and are trying to make him happy and at the moment we are working hard and winning games.

"There is still a lot to learn and a lot of hard work to do but we are happy at the moment.''

The LA Galaxy midfielder also rubbished the notion of players not being motivated for international friendlies.

"You are wearing the England shirt," he explained. "That is enough motivation for any player and that is one of the things the manager said before the game, that he wanted a real English performance, a fighting performance.

"I think we showed that at times. We pressed very well and controlled it at times. Overall we've got to be happy and we go on from here.''

Chet Winter, Goal.com

Trezeguet Still Wanted Barcelona

2008-05-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

Barcelona are said to have been interested in Juventus striker David Trezeguet - and in fact, according to an agent, they still are...

Agent Antonio Caliendo believes that Trezeguet could be making his way to Catalunya this summer as a replacement for the possibly-exit-bound Samuel Eto'o.

'Trez' is apparently near the top of Barcelona's shopping list due to the fact that they've been watching him closely for several seasons.

Speaking to French sports daily L'Equipe, Caliendo says, "Barcelona are interested in Trezeguet, and not for the first time.

"They've held such an interest in David for four seasons now.

"Things are uncertain in the attack at Barça, particularly with Eto'o. There may be changes."

Despite hitting 20 league goals for the Old Lady last season, Trezeguet was left out of the Euro 2008-bound France squad by manager Raymond Domenech.

Steve Michaels, Goal.com

Ancelotti To Chelsea, Lippi To Milan?

2008-05-30T11:34:00.000-07:00

According to Leggo, Carlo Ancelotti could take over as the new manager of Chelsea, with Marcello Lippi replacing him at Milan. The Italian and English press has gone into overdrive in the past week following the dismissals of Avram Grant and Roberto Mancini at Chelsea and Inter respectively.

While Jose Mourinho is nailed on to take over the reigns at the Italian champions, a whole host of names, including Guus Hiddink, Sven Goran Eriksson, Lippi, Mancini, and Ancelotti have been linked with the Chelsea job.

According to today’s edition of Leggo, Ancelotti could leave AC Milan in order to take over at Stamford Bridge. The Rossoneri tactician was spotted with Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich in Geneva earlier this week, and while he claims that he was only there on holiday rather than to talk about a potential move to West London, it seems there may have indeed been more behind the rendezvous.

Milan have prepared for the possible exit of Ancelotti by lining up legendary coach Marcello Lippi as his replacement.

The 60-year-old has been out of work since leading Italy to World Cup glory in 2006, but he would relish the chance to work with the San Siro giants.

Roberto Rossi

How To Be A Millioner?: How to Become Rich and Retire Young

2008-05-30T05:38:00.000-07:00

How To Be A Millioner?: How to Become Rich and Retire Young

Del Piero Steals Di Natale’s Dutch Place In Euro?

2008-05-29T23:11:00.000-07:00

According to the Italian bookmakers, Alessandro Del Piero will be preferred to Antonio Di Natale for the Azzurri’s first match of Euro 2008 against Holland.

Italy open up their Group C campaign against the Dutch in Berne on June 9, and the speculation has already started as to what starting XI Coach Roberto Donadoni will select.

Donadoni’s 4-3-3 system will almost certainly, barring injuries, see Luca Toni play at centre forward, with Mauro Camoranesi on the right.

Antonio Di Natale was originally believed to be the favourite to take the left-side role, having played in that position in the final qualifying games, and in the recent friendly matches against Portugal and Spain.

However Di Natale has come under threat ever since Donadoni named both Alex Del Piero and Antonio Cassano in his Euro 2008 squad.

According to the Italian bookmakers, Del Piero will win the race to start against Holland, with Di Natale and Cassano having to settle for places on the bench.

Christian Panucci will also be preferred to Fabio Grosso in defence, allowing Gianluca Zambrotta to take up his left back role, while Gennaro Gattuso is preferred to Milan club colleague Massimo Ambrosini in midfield.

Team to face Holland according to Italian bookmakers: (4-3-3). Buffon, Panucci, Cannavaro, Barzagli, Zambrotta, Gattuso, Pirlo, De Rossi, Camoranesi, Toni, Del Piero.

Anthony Sormani

Xavi And Fabregas In Euro's Spain Skuad

2008-05-29T23:06:00.000-07:00

Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi Hernández has moved quickly to deny that there is any friction between he and the new national 'number 10', Francesc Fàbregas...

Rumours circulating in the Spanish press indicated that Xavi and Cesc had difficulties playing together, and even that they were involved in off-pitch tensions.

Xavi, though, denied these allegations.

"I'm surprised that people have said that I'm not comfortable with Cesc and that we don't get along well," he said.

"His game is similar to mine, but I have no problem with him. I don't want anyone to say anything like that, less so about a guy of Cesc's stature.

"Do I need to talk with him? I'm very comfortable with him so I'm very surprised by these views. I have no problems with any player.

"Were similar. We like to use the ball and move rapidly. These are very parallel situations."

Based on this, there might have been a problem with the two playing together, but Xavi stressed the Furia Roja's versatility.

"The creative players need support behind and in front, and two systems can give us variety," he said.

However, he did admit that the onus would be on the midfield to find their feet quickly, given that there'd most likely be a lone forward ahead of them.

"The second line must provide more," he said.

"With two forwards, we'd have less mobility to move up."

As for Spain's chances, he said, "We've played against France and Italy, who are more physical than us, and won. Let's see if we can succeed in a real match."

Steve Michaels, Goal.com

Ballack Banking On German Grit

2008-05-29T23:01:00.000-07:00

Michael Ballack has admitted that there will be a host of teams at Euro 2008 that are capable of outplaying Germany, but is confident still that they will be a force to be reckoned with based on attitude and team ethic alone.

Germany were held to a 2-2 draw at home to Belarus in their first warm-up match ahead of this summer’s European Championships. The home side let a two goal lead slip and a second half double from Vitali Bulyga handed Belarus a deserved draw.

Speaking after the surprise draw, the Chelsea man said: "It is not an excuse, but the training camp is very physical, people are tired, but I am sure we will be on form for the beginning of the tournament.

"Against Serbia on Saturday, you will see a different match.

"When you look at our group, I think we will make the quarter-finals," the skipper added.

"There are many teams who are a little better than us in terms of technical quality or individual talent, but I believe that our enthusiasm and team spirit can compensate."

Joachim Loew's side will take on Serbia in their final official warmup game on Saturday, after which they will be all business in Group B along with Poland, Croatia and co-hosts Austria.

Derek Wanner, Goal.com

Sigombak

Japan Sights On Much Bigger Games

2008-05-27T23:38:00.000-07:00

Despite the fact that Japan lifted the Kirin Cup with a goalless draw at home to Paraguay on Tuesday, national team boss Takeshi Okada had his sights set on much bigger games.

Japan took the three-nation tournament with a 1-0 win over Ivory Coast three days previously but are focusing on four 2010 World Cup qualifiers that will take place in June.

The first is at home to Oman on June 2 when the hosts are keen to bounce back from defeat in Bahrain.

“It’s nice to win the tournament but we have bigger objectives with the World Cup qualifiers coming up,” Japan coach Takeshi Okada told reporters.

“We have done a solid job here but we can’t afford to lose those qualifiers. They’re must-win games for us. We will need to make our possession count more and take our chances better.”

Paraguay coach Gerardo Martino was impressed by the Asian team, to a certain extend.

“Japan played some excellent football early on,” the Argentine said.

“It was like playing two different teams in the first and second half. Japan seemed to drop a level in the second half all by themselves.”

Recoba Move To Al-Gharafa

2008-05-27T23:31:00.000-07:00

According to reports from Uruguay, former Inter Milan playmaker Alvaro Recoba will complete a move to Qatari outfit Al-Gharafa in the next few days.

Recoba, who played on loan at Torino last season, still has another year left on his Inter Milan contract, but the 32-year-old has affirmed that he will pen a deal with the Qatari club by the end of the week.

The former Uruguayan international currently finds himself in the luxurious beach resort of Punta del Este in his homeland, where he was able to speak to the local press about his latest move.

He will travel to Doha in the next couple of days to complete his move to Al-Gharafa, club who are coached by Marcos Paqueta of Brazil.

"El Chino" has played in Serie A since 1997, where he found mixed fortunes at Inter Milan, before being loaned out to Torino. The gifted playmaker will always be remembered for being one of the most talented footballers who never reached his full potential.

Earlier in the week Recoba confirmed that he will return to his former club, Nacional of Montevideo, after his contract with Al-Gharafa expires.

Gregory Sica

Mancini's Sack

2008-05-27T23:00:00.001-07:00

Mancini's €30m Sacking
Inter president Massimo Moratti will have to pay Roberto Mancini €30m in compensation following the coach’s exit.

Reports in Italy suggest that the Nerazzurri chief will settle a massive pay off with Mancini after his contract was terminated on Tuesday evening. Jose Mourinho is already in Milan and hours away from signing a €9m per year deal.

However, before Moratti rolls cash towards the Portuguese coach, he has to settle the bill with Mancini.

According to CalcioMercato, the former Lazio player had five years left on his contract worth €6m per season.

Therefore Moratti has to give Mancini a €30m pay off. He also has to compensate the former coach’s assistants - including Sinisa Mihajlovic, who was Mancini’s number two - as well as goalkeeping coach Giulio Nuciari, Fausto Salsano, Dario Marcolin and Ivan Carminati, who were all Mancini’s coaching staff.

Inter tried to reach a deal with everyone over their final pay offs on Tuesday night but failed and now Moratti has to pay the full amount accordingly.

Salvatore Landolin goal.com

Reports: Mancini Out, Mourinho In

2008-05-27T22:56:00.000-07:00

There are widespread reports throughout Italy that this afternoon’s meeting between Roberto Mancini and Massimo Moratti ended after just 20 minutes, with the outcome being that Mancini has left San Siro, to be replaced by Jose Mourinho.

Speculation has been rife over the past 48 hours that Mancini would be leaving Inter, and indeed yesterday Portuguese newspaper A Bola claimed that President Massimo Moratti had already done the deal for Jose Mourinho to replace the tactician.

Mancini and Moratti arranged a meeting this afternoon at 17:00 to sort out the coach's future, but the meeting had lasted just over 20 minutes until Mancini walked out of a private residence in Milan and refused to comment on the outcome.

There are now widespread reports that the pair have mutually agreed to rescind Mancio's contract, and that Mourinho will be his immediate replacement.

The Special One, who has been out of work since leaving Chelsea last September, is reported to be in Portugal this afternoon finalising personal terms over his contract with Inter director Marco Branca.

The Portuguese daily Diario de Noticias adds to this that Mourinho has been taking private Italian lessons for the past five months as he wants to present himself better to the press, players and fans.

There has been no official confirmation of these reports as of yet, but it is likely that there will some news very soon.

Luca Capofranco goal.com

Madrid Include Saviola In Cannavaro And Cassano Deal

2008-05-27T02:03:00.001-07:00

Napoli were offered more than they bargained for when Real Madrid said that they would only discuss a move for Fabio Cannavaro and Antonio Cassano if Javier Saviola was included in any deal.

Los Merengues are keen to off-load the Argentinian striker after he proved to be a flop during his first season at the Bernabéu since moving from Barcelona on a free transfer last summer.

With a tally of only three goals and two completed games for Madrid, Saviola is now seen as surplus to requirements not least because of his annual salary of €5m.

While Napoli are keen to take Cannavaro back and try and persuade Cassano to join them, a deal could be pushed through if they consider taking the unexpected third party.

Cassano has flourished during his year on loan at Sampdoria and has been rewarded with a place in Italy's Euro 2008 squad, but Madrid have no intention of taking him back.

Saviola himself is not keen to leave Madrid, but has admitted that if it is made clear that he is no longer required then he will consider listening to other clubs.

After being left out of Argentina's recent squads by coach Alfio Basile, the striker now recognises that if he stays then he could miss out on the 2010 World Cup Finals in South Africa.

Madrid's sporting director, Pedja Mijatovic, would rather see Cassano go to Napoli rather than see him join Sampdoria as a stepping stone to then be sold on immediately to either Inter or Juventus.

Lucas Brown, Goal.com

Eto'o More Important Than Ronaldinho

2008-05-27T01:56:00.000-07:00

AC Milan have joined rivals Inter in the quest to prise Samuel Eto'o away from Barcelona and believe that signing the striker would be more important than capturing Ronaldinho.

The surprising move could see the Rossoneri make an enquiry about the Cameroonian goalscorer's asking price, which is believed to be currently in the region of €35m.

Eto'o has stated that he is not keen on leaving Camp Nou this summer, but may reconsider if he is told by the Catalan club that is no longer wanted.

Barça would only take such a big decision if incoming coach Pep Guardiola decided that he needed the money to finance a move for a striker that he prefers.

Milan appear keen to see if there is a possibility of signing Eto'o, but general manager Ariedo Braida admits that it will not be easy.

"We need Ronnie less than Eto'o," he said. "Eto'o is a great player, but it won't be easy because I suspect we'll have to pay a lot of money. Anyway, everything is possible in soccer."

Contacts between the clubs are good after lengthy negotiations over a move for Ronaldinho and current talks that look set to conclude with Gianluca Zambrotta moving to the San Siro.

Eto'o was said to be the target for English side Tottenham Hotspur, but amid all the media reports Barça denied any bid and Spurs said that they were not considering making one.

Ronaldinho looked all set for a move to Italy before it was revealed that Milan felt that the Blaugrana's asking price was too high and Guardiola may now attempt the Brazilian to stay.

Lucas Brown, Goal.com

Adriano To Join Sampdoria?

2008-05-27T00:05:00.000-07:00

According to sources from Genoa, Inter striker Adriano could make a surprise loan move to Sampdoria this summer. Inter striker Adriano, who spent the last half season on loan with San Paolo and did quite well there, may end up in an unexpected place this summer.

The 26-year-old could be loaned out yet again, this time to Sampdoria in Serie A. The Blucerchiati already revived Antonio Cassano's career last season, so they might be able to do the same for Adriano.

Despite doing well in Brazil these last few months, the player is probably not yet ready to feature prominently for Inter again already next season. That's especially the case if coach Roberto Mancini, with whom he's never been on good terms, stays in Milan.

Adriano's preferred destination is certainly Italy. With his former Parma team mate Alberto Gilardino already making the move to Fiorentina, Sampdoria could really help the former Inter star to get his career back on track.

In case the move does go through, most probably Samp will have to strike a deal with Inter to have them pay part of his considerable salary, as was already done with Real Madrid for Cassano.

Danilo Pochini goal.com

Ronaldo: My Head Is In Manchester

2008-05-26T13:47:00.000-07:00

Cristiano Ronaldo has dampened speculation that he is considering leaving the European champions by telling Portuguese journalists that his ‘head is in Manchester.

The subject of persistent rumours linking him with Real Madrid - mostly fuelled and fanned by the Spanish media, Cristiano Ronaldo himself has restated that his is happy at Manchester United and "would love to continue" his career at Old Trafford.

Portuguese winger Ronaldo, 23, sent the spevculation into overdrive recently by stating that he would make a decision on his future shortly.

In an interview with Portuguese newspaper Publico, he has confirmed that he would like to play in Spain one day but, that he is currently satisfied with life in England.

"There is nothing certain at the moment," Ronaldo said. "The press always make stories about interest from other teams, not only from Madrid, also from Barcelona. On one hand it's good and means that they know your value as a player and think you can be a good reinforcement for other teams.

"But my head is in Manchester because it is the club that, at the moment, puts me in the best condition and that I'm happy at.

"Now, as I have said many times, only God knows the future.

"I have never hid from anyone that I would like to play in Spain one day. It's a dream, but sometimes dreams don't happen.

"I can guarantee that I am happy at Manchester United and that I would love to continue."

Ronaldo has been at United for five years, and last season scored a remarkable 42 goals, as well as domestic and European medals and a host of individual accolades.

But he paid tribute to the United managemen team of Sir Alex Ferguson and Carlos Queiroz.

"He [Ferguson] is spectacular," enthused Ronaldo. "He is a coach with a lot of experience who has helped me a lot.

"I've been with him for five years and I barely know him but he is a very experienced coach and always helps me and that's what's important.

"But I have also been supported by Carlos Queiroz, who is also doing some spectacular work.

"He has helped me a lot and he has a fundamental role.

"It is him who leads the training sessions, he is there every day with the players and he is an excellent professional.

"He's a five-star man, as a coach and as a person."

Mark Hinton, Goal.com

Sergio Ramos Joins Cristiano Chorus

2008-05-26T13:41:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos has become the latest blanco to add his voice to the clamour calling for the signing of Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo...

Both young Spaniard Ramos and Portuguese ace Ronaldo are currently ensconced with their respective national sides, but club concerns are seldom far away.

On a day that Cristiano spoke about his "dream" of a move to Spain - but tempered it with a statement about his head being in Manchester - Sergio Ramos also offered his thoughts.

"It wouldn't be bad," he said to Marca of the prospect of having the Premier League top scorer around.

"I think everybody would love to have such a player.

"Right now he's the best in the world, and he'd always be welcome in our team."

Selection Issues

However, the young Andalucían quickly moved on to talk about the Spanish national squad, putting aside the issues of signings.

To this end he weighed in on the minor controversy engulfing La Furia Roja, mostly focusing around the respective absences of coach Luis Aragonés and goalkeeper Iker Casillas last week, stating that there was no lasting problem.

He also spoke to RealMadrid.com about the prospects of Spanish success in Austria and Switzerland.

"We're starting off well. We had time to enjoy the league championship and now [the Madrid contingent] are keen to link up with our colleagues and aim for an important goal," he enthused.

No Playing Favourites

Brushing aside the idea that Spain might be favourites, the ex-Sevilla man urged "humility and tranquility: we have the dream of winning the title, of course, but we must go step-by-step, focusing first on the three group games.

"But the goal is winning the title and being champions. That requires a high level of play, a tiny margin for error, and hard work to achieve these.

"We realise that our squad is pretty good, we have major players at home, and internationally in England, and it's high time that we man up and make a difference."

Steve Michaels, Goal.com

Chelsea Preparing Robinho Bid - Agent

2008-05-26T04:38:00.000-07:00

Robinho's agent has been told first hand that Chelsea are considering making a bid of €35m for the forward to Real Madrid and hopes to use that to obtain his client a new deal.

Wagner Ribeiro told Brazilian television that the Blues revealed that they are weighing up making a firm move for his client and that Los Merengues should be prepared.

After being linked to a move to Manchester United as paprt of a swap deal for Cristiano Ronaldo, Robinho is said to want an extension to his contract at the Bernabéu.

While publicly declaring that he only wants to remain at Madrid, that will only happen if the club lengthen his current deal, which runs until 2010, by four years and increase his salary.

Ribeiro could use the news that Chelsea are interested to pressurise Madrid into re-opening negotiations during the summer to ensure that the player can settle back down.

"I met Peter Kenyon, Chelsea managing director, in London on Thursday," said Ribeiro. "He told me that they (Chelsea) were considering making an offer of €35m for Robinho."

Robinho was hailed as one of the stars of Madrid's title winning team last term and he and his agent believe that he should now have a wage to match the club's highest earners.

Madrid are dragging their feet over talks in the knowledge that he still has two years to run on his current contract.

Lucas Brown, Goal.com

Chelsea To Swap Drogba, Carvalho For Kaka?

2008-05-26T04:34:00.000-07:00

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is lining up an incredible player-exchange deal for AC Milan superstar Kaka, according to reports.

The Blues are currently without a manager following the sacking of Avram Grant after a trophyless season, with ex-Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard and Russia coach Guus Hiddink favourites to take the reins.

But whoever is appointed may arrive to find a significantly altered squad from the one that fell to Manchester United in the Champions League last week.

Although Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck has played down talk of wholesale changes over the summer, Abramovich is reportedly keen to overhaul the team as he seeks a more attractive brand of football.

And The Mail claims the Russian billionaire is preparing to offer want-away striker Didier Drogba and defender Ricardo Carvalho plus cash in order to tempt Milan to part with the reigning FIFA World Player of the Year.

It is not the first time in recent months Chelsea have been linked with an audacious bid, the club shouting down claims they were prepared to pay ₤80 million for Barca prodigy Lionel Messi.

And nor would it be the first time Abramovich has bought a player – a Milan player, indeed – without the manager’s consent, as he famously spent ₤30 million to bring Andriy Shevchenko to Stamford Bridge despite then-manager Jose Mourinho’s disapproval.

Kaka, signed a contract extension with the Rossoneri in February, is currently out of action after undergoing surgery on his left knee.

Mike Maguire goal.com

Fergie: Just Three More Years

2008-05-25T02:03:00.000-07:00

Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed his time at Manchester United is drawing toward a close, insisting he will hang up his managerial mantle within the next three years…

Wednesday’s Champions League triumph over Chelsea in Moscow secured United their 29th trophy since Ferguson took charge of the club back in 1986.

The Scot’s phenomenal success at Old Trafford has seen him earn a place alongside compatriot Sir Matt Busby as one of the very greatest managers in the Red Devils’ illustrious history.

Many have speculated that Ferguson would step down after clinching his second Champions League crown, and the 66-year-old confirmed he will most definitely retire within the next three years.

“I won’t be manager here when I’m 70 and I won’t be managing any more than another three years at the very, very most,” he said. “That is without question.

“I think most things will be my decision. And I think David Gill [United’s chief executive] is happy with that.”

Replacement

A list of potential successors to Ferguson’s throne has been gradually forming over last few seasons, with names like Roy Keane, Paul Ince, Steve Coppell and Bryan Robson – United greats all – being mentioned.

But Sir Alex, despite hinting recently that assistant coach Carlos Queiroz would get his vote, typically refused to comment on such matters, insisting they are beyond his authority.

He said: “It’s not my job to groom a replacement and it wouldn’t be fair to tell the Glazers what to do.”

Mike Maguire

Roma Edge Inter To Clinch The Coppa

2008-05-25T00:06:00.000-07:00

Roma 2-1 Inter
1-0 (Mexes,36), 2-0 (Perrotta, 54) 2-1 (Pele, 59)

Roma clamed consecutive Coppa Italias with a well-deserved win over Inter who, despite winning the Scudetto, may well have played their last game under Roberto Mancini.

Roma dominated the first half and should have taken the lead before they eventually did, with Philippe Mexes the unlikely scorer.

Despite missing Amantino Mancini and of course club captain Francesco Totti, Roma were having much of the play and doubled their lead shortly after the restart through Simone Perrotta.

Inter - missing Marco Materazzi and Julio Cruz due to suspension - hit back just before the hour mark, with substitute Pele powering home a long-range drive.

The Nerazzurri attempted to press for an equaliser - though they did not risk bringing on Zlatan Ibrahimovic who, despite his Scudetto heroics last week, is not fully match-fit - and indeed Roma held out for their second win over Inter in this fixture in as many years, with Inter having bested them in the final the two years prior to that.

First Half

Roma came out looking the sharper side, threatening to punish Inter early on, as they looked content to see out the early spell of pressure.

They created the first chance, with a Mario Balotelli free-kick hitting the wall, rebounding as far as Dejan Stankovic, whose shot was saved comfortably by Alexander Doni.

The Giallorossi continued having more of the play, as Ludovic Giuly blasted a shot over the bar before Mirko Vucinic did well to slide in Simone Perrotta, whose attempt on goal was blocked by Christian Chivu.

Midway through the first half, Inter looked a little more settled and had a few chances of their own. Maicon aimed a good cross into the middle which Patrick Vieira could not quite keep down, before Maxwell made a magnificent run and shot, but Doni was at his very best to keep it out.

Vucinic almost gave Roma the lead just before the half hour mark when a Marco Cassetti cross was nodded into his path, but he was a split second too slow and could not get a decent touch on the ball from point-blank range.

However, it was not long until the Giallorossi took a deserved lead courtesy of a well-taken goal from Mexes. A David Pizarro corner was floated into the danger-zone and Mexes was first to it, volleying home from close range leaving Francesco Toldo with no chance.

Inter attempted to press to snatch an equaliser before the break, but it was Roma who had a couple of efforts from Alberto Aquilani and Mexes before the referee blew for half time.

Second Half

Straight after the restart, Roma looked like they may double their lead, only for Vucinic to attempt an incredible effort from distance instead of finding a team-mate, much to the disdain of coach Luciano Spalletti on the sidelines.

They did not have to wait long, however, as Vucinic atoned for his error after 53 minutes to set up Perrotta, who added a second. It was the midfielder who put Vucinic through on goal but, feeling genorous, Vucinic knocked it back to the Italian international to tap in. Remonstrations from Inter over an alleged foul on Cesar in the build-up only proceeded in earning Toldo a booking.

However, it did not take long for Inter to respond as Pele - who came on for Stankovic at half time - struck a thunderous shot from distance to find the back of the net and make it 2-1.

Vucinich attempted to restore Roma's two-goal advantage shortly after, only for Nicolas Burdisso to give Spalletti's men the ultimate scare, when he rose highest to head Maicon's cross against the crossbar, mere inches away from an equaliser.

Pele began dictating the game in the middle of the mark as Inter were doing the pressing, but could not create a clear-cut chance on goal, as Roma held out with almost relative ease to claim some well-deserved silverware to end a season in which they have done themselves proud.

LINE-UPS

Roma (4-5-1): Doni - Cassetti, Mexes, Juan, Tonetto - Giuly (Cicinho, 66), De Rossi, Aquilani (Panucci, 90), Pizarro, Perrotta (Brighi, 72) - Vucinic

Unused substitutes: Curci, Antunes, Mancini, Esposito.

Inter (4-4-2): Toldo - Maicon, Burdisso, Chivu, Maxwell - Zanetti (Crespo, 90), Vieira, Stankovic (Pele, 46), Cesar (Jimenez, 61) - Balotelli, Suazo

Unused substitutes: Julio Cesar, Fatic, Maniche, Ibrahimovic.

Fiorentina And Milan Reach Gilardino Accord

2008-05-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

Milan striker Alberto Gilardino will officially become a Fiorentina player next week according to 'calciomercato.com' as the two clubs have agreed to a deal for the transfer of the Italian player.

Gilardino could link up again with former coach Cesare Prandelli at Fiorentina as, according to 'calciomercato.com', the Rossoneri have agreed to a 14 million Euro transfer of the attacker to the Tuscan side.

The former Parma player has apparently agreed to reduce his salary of 3.2 million, which he had with Milan, for the next two years.

The amount will instead be spread over the years - a sacrifice Gilardino is willing to make due to his enthusiasism of re-joining his mentor, who launched him into the big-time.

The official news is expected to be announced next week as Gilardino will replace the departing Christian Vieri in the Viola attack.

Fiorentina, who made it to the Champions League, are also close to signing Andrea Barzagli from Palermo in order to bolster their squad ahead of what promises to be an important season for them next year.

Glenn Debattista/goal.com

Chelsea Sack Avram Grant

2008-05-24T10:22:00.000-07:00

Chelsea have terminated first team coach Avram Grant's contract with immediate effect...

The London club made their announcement via their official website this afternoon, bringing to an end weeks of speculation over the Israeli's future.

A statement read that the decision was taken after two days of intense discussion, with owner Roman Abramovich and the board apparently losing patience after a season without success in the Premier League or Champions League.

Grant, 53, arrived at Stamford Bridge in September of last year after José Mourinho's departure. Having bossed the Israeli national side, as well as a host of domestic teams, his experience was considerable, but lacked the top-level edge that many fans in west London had grown to expect. What's more, a lack of official UEFA qualification put him in a difficult situation.

Nonetheless he was able to guide the Blues both to the CL final in Moscow and to second place in the Premier League, losing the former game on penalties and the latter competition by a narrow margin.

However, it has been clear for some time that a trophyless season, however close-fought, would not be tolerated, and thus Grants departure comes as no real surprise.

The Search Is On

The second part of Chelsea's official communiqué pertained to the need to find a replacement. It read: "We will now be concentrating all our efforts on identifying a new manager for Chelsea and there will be no further comment until that appointment is made."

The likes of Frank Rijkaard, former Barcelona boss, have been linked with the vacant hotseat, but there are also rumblings in the English tabloid press that José Mourinho could be set for a surprise (and highly unlikely) return.

Steve Michaels, Goal.com

Will Mourinho be inter coach?

2008-05-24T10:11:00.000-07:00

Mourinho SMS: I Sign For Inter On Monday

Jose Mourinho has told Michael Essien that he will sign for Inter on Monday according to La Gazzetta Dello Sport.

The former Chelsea coach has been linked with the club ever since current boss, Roberto Mancini, walked out on the club only to make a dramatic U-turn on his decision.

Mancini still hasn't confirmed his position with the Nerazzurri and he may leave in the summer. Meanwhile the Special One is currently free and waiting to pounce and, according to reports, he has claimed that he will sign for Inter on Monday.

Gazzetta claim Mourinho sent Chelsea midifielder Michael Essien a text message after the Moscow Champions League final telling him the news of his new adventure with the Nerazzurri.

The text reads: "Michael, you have all been great players regardless of the loss to Manchester United. On Monday I will sign for Inter and I hope that one day you too will come to Inter."

Ronaldo Offers New Future Tease

2008-05-24T09:52:00.000-07:00

Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo has once again increased speculation over his future at Old Trafford after claiming that his dream is to play for Real Madrid...

The Portuguese ace has been linked with a move to the Spanish outfit for quite some time now, with the Real Madrid president, Ramón Calderón, claiming that he would be very delighted to bring in the former Sporting player to his squad.

The 23-year-old stated yesterday that, despite Real Madrid's reported interest, he had not received an offer from the Spanish capital club. He further added that updated news over his future would be released in just a couple of weeks.

However, Ronaldo has now made his intentions crystal clear after admitting that he is eyeing a move to Santiago Bernabéu.

"I have a dream to play for Madrid. You also have dreams, no? Well, this is my dream," he stated to Portuguese television.

Contract Speculation

However, he also offered a somewhat veiled commitment to the Old Trafford side.

He continued, "My contract is with Manchester United and is with them that I must talk.

"My deal could have some additions to it in the next two weeks, but I've signed nothing with Madrid."

In this way he harked back to his two week deadline of sorting out his future, while also thoroughly denying reports that he had already secured an 'under-the-table' deal.

Robinho's representative, Wagner Ribeiro, claimed yesterday that Manchester United would only allow Ronaldo to leave Old Trafford if someone from Real Madrid that plays in the same position, namely Robinho, was to make a move in the opposite direction.

Calderón is now aware of Ronaldo's interest and should intensify negotiations with the British club about a summer transfer.

Steve Michaels/goal.com

Milan Confirms Zambrotta And Ronaldinho Interest

2008-05-24T02:16:00.000-07:00

Milan general manager Adriano Galliani was in Spain on Friday evening to dine out with president Joan Laporta at the Hotel Majestic in Barcelona, confirming the speculation that they spoke about two possible transfers.

At the end of the dinner with Laporta, Galliani confirmed to the Spanish reporters that the two discussed the possibility of the Rossoneri signing Gianluca Zambrotta and Ronaldinho from the Blaugrana, even though the negotiations have yet to start in earnest.

"It was just a preliminary evening of discussion - nothing has been concluded," declared the general on his way out of the hotel.

"We spoke about Zambrotta and Ronaldinho, but tomorrow I will return to Milan," he continued.

Galliani was then asked by the Spanish journalists if they discussed the transfer of Samuel Eto'o, but his response was a negative one.

At this point, Zambrotta seems like a very probable purchase, whereas Ronaldinho’s future will depend a lot on the asking price of Barcelona.

Rafael Marquez, another alleged Milan target, appeared not to have been on the agenda.

Glenn Debattista/goal.com

Brazil coach Dunga calls up Adriano

2008-05-23T22:04:00.000-07:00

Sigombak - Adriano have a opportunity to show his skill and back to brazilian skuads.

Brazil coach Dunga on Friday called up striker Adriano for upcoming international friendly matches against Canada and Venezuela as a replacement for injured Chelsea player Alex.

Brazil play Canada on May 31 in Seattle and Venezuela in Boston on June 6.

Brazil`s next South American World Cup qualifiers are against Paraguay on June 15 in Asuncion and against Argentina in Belo Horizonte, in the south east of Brazil, on June 18.

Adriano has been loaned out by Inter Milan to Brazilian champions Sao Paulo till July 10.

As Sao Paulo were on Wednesday eliminated from the Copa Libertadores, the South American equivalent of the European Champions League, Dunga decided to call on Adriano for the friendlies.(AFP)

Bravo Manchester!

2008-05-21T19:55:00.000-07:00

Man. United 1 - 1 Chelsea
Cristiano Ronaldo 26, Lampard 45
MU win 6-5 on penalties

United Strike Gold In Shoot-Out
Almost ten months after launching their season with a shoot-out victory over Chelsea FC, Manchester United FC repeated the feat in the UEFA Champions League final with Edwin van der Sar saving from Nicolas Anelka to take the trophy to Old Trafford for a third time.

High drama
Sir Alex Ferguson's team had prevailed 3-0 on penalties in the FA Community Shield on 5 August after a 1-1 draw but the prospect of a repeat looked distant when Cristiano Ronaldo headed them into a deserved 26th-minute lead. Chelsea equalised 19 minutes later through Frank Lampard, however, and they appeared more likely winners thereafter, Didier Drogba and Lampard both striking the woodwork.

Dreamland
Despite Drogba's dismissal for slapping Nemanja Vidić deep into extra time, the ten men had the ultimate prize within reach after Petr Čech's save from Ronaldo's penalty but John Terry fired wide at 4-4 when his kick would have clinched victory. Three conversions later, Van der Sar outwitted Anelka and United were in dreamland.

Ronaldo delight
Given this final featured the best two defences in the Premier League it was perhaps little surprise both sides began cautiously. Owen Hargreaves, making a lively start down United's right, gave an early test to Ashley Cole - fully recovered from an ankle injury suffered in training on Tuesday - by delivering two dangerous balls into the area and almost getting on the end of Ronaldo's left-wing centre. From the Portuguese international's second significant contribution, United were ahead. Wes Brown played a one-two with Paul Scholes on the right touchline and cut inside to deliver a deep cross to the far post, where Ronaldo peeled away from Michael Essien to nod his first goal against Chelsea, netting just inside Čech's right-hand post.

Tempo rising
Michael Ballack drove over from the edge of the box as Chelsea sought an instant response, but at the half-hour Avram Grant's men had managed just 38 per cent of possession. For all that, United's lead might have disappeared but for the reflexes of the 37-year-old Van der Sar, the Dutchman making an instinctive save at point-blank range to keep out Rio Ferdinand's inadvertent header under pressure from Ballack. The tempo was rising and within seconds, Chelsea could have fallen two behind at the other end. Wayne Rooney's fabulous long pass launched a counterattack from which Čech made stops to deny first Carlos Tévez's header then Michael Carrick's follow-up shot.

Lampard leveller
Tévez next passed up another presentable opening from Rooney's low right-wing centre and Chelsea took advantage of this profligacy on the stroke of half-time. Lampard reacted quickest to slip the ball beyond Van der Sar after Essien's speculative long-range effort had struck both Vidić and Ferdinand. Having got back into the game, Chelsea were eager to build on their equaliser and might have been in front within ten minutes of the restart. Florent Malouda sent Essien away down the right and the Ghanaian turned away from two defenders on the edge of the area, only to direct a left-foot attempt too high. Ballack then sliced wide as the United defence parted invitingly.

Drogba denied
Before kick-off, the United end of the ground had displayed a series of cards spelling out one simple message: Believe. With Ballack and midfield partner Lampard growing in influence, however, that conviction now seemed exclusively Chelsea's and they came closer than ever to a second goal with 12 minutes left when Drogba, out of nothing, curled a shot from 25 metres beyond Van der Sar but off the goalkeeper's left-hand upright. Ryan Giggs came on after 87 minutes to make a record-breaking 759th United appearance, yet with tension setting in neither side were willing to risk defeat and commit men forward.

Overtime tension
Still, Chelsea continued to look more enterprising and early in extra time they rattled the woodwork again as Ashley Cole and Ballack set up Lampard for an improvised shot that came back off the bar with Van der Sar beaten. Terry then blocked Giggs's goalbound strike after Patrice Evra's low centre had taken Čech out of the game. The ebb and flow of attacks continued, with the only advantage gained being United's after Drogba was dismissed for raising a hand to Vidić. That seemed not to matter when Ronaldo missed United's third kick of the shoot-out, but Chelsea's moment passed with Terry's slip and Van der Sar's subsequent glory-grabbing save.

(Match report by Andrew Haslam from Luzhniki Stadium)

English heavyweights to make history

2008-05-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

It was clear kick-off could not come soon enough for Manchester United FC manager Sir Alex Ferguson when he arrived 20 minutes early for his press conference ahead of the UEFA Champions League final at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium.

English rivals
Ten days since the Premier League campaign closed, Chelsea FC and United cannot wait to resume a rivalry that has outgrown their domestic game. The European title is at stake for two teams who have been English champions twice apiece in the last four years. "We have an illustrious history, but there is a weakness in how many European trophies we have won. I hope we can go some way to making that better," Sir Alex said.

Sir Alex 'proud'
History follows United at every step. Sir Alex led his side to UEFA Champions League glory in 1999, and a third European crown beckons 40 years after Sir Matt Busby's team lifted club football's most prestigious prize. It is also 50 years since the Munich air disaster and United's manager said he was "proud to be following in the footsteps" of those who had died that day – members of the first English side to compete in the European Champion Clubs' Cup. "We will not let them down," he promised.

'We feel at home'
United's opponents in this first all-English final may be familiar, but this is a trip into the unknown for Chelsea, a chance to start building the tradition they so crave. Finishing runners-up to United on the domestic stage has supplied added incentive to land the trophy their Russian owner Roman Abramovich covets most. How fitting if the revolution his wealth has wrought on the English game reaches its climax in Moscow. "We feel at home here, I must say," Chelsea coach Avram Grant said. "It's a nice feeling." Chelsea may be contesting their first UEFA Champions League final yet six former winners could start for the Londoners; United feature five among their ranks.

Contrasting experience
It is on the bench, however, that experience may tell the most. "I'm relaxed and I should be," Sir Alex said. "It's my fourth European final. I've got to use my experience and hopefully composure to help everyone else." The Scot's 1999 success came long before the Premier League had established its continental dominance and he will attempt to keep United one step ahead by joining a select band of coaches to have claimed the European Cup twice. By contrast, this is Grant's 12th match in the competition proper. According to the Israeli, though, longevity can only take you so far. "It's more important that the players are hungry and my players are very, very hungry to win."

Cole scare
Chelsea suffered a scare in training when Ashley Cole hurt his right ankle after a tackle by Claude Makelele. Although the left-back continued after strapping was applied, Wayne Bridge will be on standby should the problem prove serious. Each team is otherwise at full strength. Chelsea won their most recent meeting in April but United had the last laugh in the domestic championship. Now, in Russia, it will be intriguing to see if the Reds can seize power again. If not, the vodka will be on Mr Abramovich. Grant said: "I'm not a drinker but in this case it will be OK. I will drink more than one glass." (uefa.com)

Turkey warm up for Euro 2008 with win over Slovakia

2008-05-21T11:39:00.000-07:00

Sigombak-Turkey warmed up for next month`s European championship with a morale-boosting 1-0 victory over Slovakia in a friendly on Tuesday.

Galatasaray defender Hakan Balta secured Turkey`s win with his first international goal, a superb first-time shot from outside the area in the 62nd minute that gave Slovakia keeper Stefan Senecky no chance.

Turkey had most of the possession and would have won by a bigger margin with better finishing.

Along with the result, the good news for Turkey coach Fatih Terim ahead of Euro 2008 was that keeper Rustu Recber, playing in place of the injured Volkan Demirel, showed he still had the speed and timing to play at the top level.

A masterful punch by the 35-year-old blocked an 80th-minute header by Slovakia`s Martin Petras, assuring Turkey of victory on the night.

Tempers rose in the 69th minute after Slovakia`s Martin Skrtel shoved Turkey forward Gokdeniz Karadeniz after a foul.

Both men were given yellow card.(Reuters)

Maradona would cut off "Hand of God" for Julia Roberts

2008-05-20T22:16:00.000-07:00

Sigombak-Argentinian soccer legend Diego Maradona said on Tuesday he would be prepared to cut off the hand that scored one of his most famous goals for a sight of film star Julia Roberts.

Maradona, in Cannes to promote a new documentary about his life by Serbian film director Emir Kusturica, appeared bewitched by the star of "Pretty Woman".

"I would do anything to see her coming along here, along the Croisette," he said, through a translator.

"I`d like to be able to walk along behind her and I`d be able to cut off my hand for that, even the hand with which I scored against England."

"I`d be able to cut off my hand if I could see Julia Roberts," he said.

Maradona, acclaimed as one of the best players the game has ever seen, beat England goalkeeper Peter Shilton by knocking in the ball with his hand during the quarter final of the 1986 World Cup that Argentina eventually won.

After the match, Maradona famously refused to admit that he had scored with his hand, saying that the goal was scored with "the Hand of God.". (Reuters)

Manchester Win 1-0 at Chelsea

2008-05-20T21:52:00.000-07:00

In Sigombak Prediction

PREDICTION Steven Jones, goal.com -- Over the course of ninety minutes I feel the match will be as close as ever and will need extra time, and possibly penalties to determine a winner. In extra time gameplans go out of the window and it may provide the space for one of the many star players on the pitch to grab a winner. I personally cannot separate the two sides so I have gone for a draw leading to a penalty shootout where either could be the winners of the Champions League 2008.

Manchester United 1-1 Chelsea (could go either way on penalties)

Prediction Sigombak, owner blog, Manchester win 1-0! the boring game! All club over devensif and over be carefull.

This prediction if no quick goal.

Data And Fact Final Liga Champions

2008-05-19T23:10:00.000-07:00

Machday final Liga Champions all England club, Manchester United Chelsea at Moskow, Rusia, wednesday (21/5):

Its thirt final all club same country in histories champion league. In Paris at 2000, all Espanola club, Real Madrid beaten Valencia with 3-0.
2003, in Manchester, AC Milan winner 3-2 from Juventus in penalty after draw 0-0 in Italian final.

Machday Manchester vs Chelsea is final 53 since 1955-1956. Club England have succesly 11. Or like Italia and Spanyol succesly. Club’s England winning 29 trophy’s in three eropan competition club. Like succesly spanyol club’s.

England club’s at four last year always play in finally. At 2005 Liverpool winer from AC Milan. 2006, Arsenal runner up and last session, Liverpool in final.

Moskow first final champion league.

Winer Champion since 1956-2007

1956 Paris Real Madrid 4 Stade Reims 3
1957 Madrid Real Madrid 2 Fiorentina 0
1958 Brussels Real Madrid 3 AC Milan 2
1959 Stuttgart Real Madrid 2 Stade Reims 0
1960 Glasgow Real Madrid 7 Eintracht Frankfurt 3
1961 Bern Benfica 3 Barcelona 2
1962 Amsterdam Benfica 5 Real Madrid 3
1963 London AC Milan 2 Benfica 1
1964 Wina Inter Milan 3 Real Madrid 1
1965 Milan Inter Milan 1 Benfica 0
1966 Brussels Real Madrid 2 Partizan Belgrade 1
1967 Lisabon Celtic 2 Inter Milan 1
1968 London Manchester United 4 Benfica 1
1969 Madrid AC Milan 4 Ajax Amsterdam 1
1970 Milan Feyenoord 2 Celtic 1
1971 London Ajax Amsterdam 2 Panathinaikos 0
1972 Rotterdam Ajax Amsterdam 2 Inter Milan 0
1973 Beograd Ajax Amsterdam 1 Juventus 0
1974 Brussels Bayern Munich 4 Atletico Madrid 0
1975 Paris Bayern Munich 2 Leeds United 0
1976 Glasgow Bayern Munich 1 St Etienne 0
1977 Roma Liverpool 3 B Moenchengladbach 1
1978 London Liverpool 1 Club Bruges 0
1979 Munich Nottingham Forest 1 Malmo FF 0
1980 Madrid Nottingham Forest 1 Hamburg SV 0
1981 Paris Liverpool 1 Real Madrid 0
1982 Rotterdam Aston Villa 1 Bayern Munich 0
1983 Athena Hamburg SV 1 Juventus 0
1984 Roma Liverpool 1 AS Roma 1 (Liverpool win 4-2 with penalty)
1985 Brussels Juventus 1 Liverpool 0
1986 Sevilla Steaua Bucharest 0 Barcelona 0 (Steaua 2-0 penalti)
1987 Wina Porto 2 Bayern Munich 1
1988 Stuttgart PSV Eindhoven 0 Benfica 0 (PSV 6-5 penalti)
1989 Barcelona AC Milan 4 Steaua Bucharest 0
1990 Wina AC Milan 1 Benfica 0
1991 Bari Red Star Belgrade 0 Olympique Marseille 0 (Red Star 5-3 penalti)
1992 London Barcelona 1 Sampdoria 0
1993 Munich Olympique Marseille 1 AC Milan 0
1994 Athena AC Milan 4 Barcelona 0
1995 Vienna Ajax Amsterdam 1 AC Milan 0
1996 Rome Juventus 1 Ajax Amsterdam 1(Juventus 4-2)
1997 Munich Borussia Dortmund 3 Juventus 1
1998 Amsterdam Real Madrid 1 Juventus 0
1999 Barcelona Manchester United 2 Bayern Munich 1
2000 Paris Real Madrid 3 Valencia 0
2001 Milan Bayern Munich 1 Valencia 1(Bayern menang 5-4)
2002 Glasgow Real Madrid 2 Bayer Leverkusen 1
2003 Manchester AC Milan 0 Juventus 0 (AC Milan 3-2)
2004 Gelsenkirchen Porto 3 Monaco 0
2005 Istanbul Liverpool 3 AC Milan 3 (Liverpool 3-2)
2006 Paris Barcelona 2 Arsenal 1
2007 Athens AC Milan 2 Liverpool 1

Club’s winner champion league

9 - Real Madrid
7 - AC Milan
5 - Liverpool
4 - Bayern Munich, Ajax Amsterdam
2 - Barcelona, Benfica, Juventus, Inter Milan, Manchester
United, Nottingham Forest, Porto
1 - Celtic, Hamburg SV, Steaua Bucharest, Olympique Marseille,
Feyenoord, Aston Villa, PSV Eindhoven, Red Star Belgrade,
Borussia Dortmund.

Bayen Munich Action In Indonesia

2008-05-19T10:46:00.000-07:00

Team National Indonesia Will play with Bayern Munich. Munich tour to asia and “Merah-Putih” team have play with players word class like kipper Oliver Kahn. Oliver will ending his karier in football.

Friendly games will play at Wednesday (21/5/2008) at 05.00 PM. Without key players, Hollywood FC still have Kahn, Daniel van Buyten, Christian Lell, Marcell Jansen, Andreas Ottl, Mark van Bommel, Ze Roberto, and Jan Schlaudraff.

This time Monday (19/5/2008), ticket was sale. ticket box in Masjid Al Bina area’s, kompleks Stadion Gelora Bung Karno, Senayan, Jakarta. 40.000 ticket ready to civil. 25.000 ticket to sponsor.

four categories ticket VIP class sale Rp 180.000, Rp 100.000 (Kategori I), Rp 50.000 (Kategori II), and Rp 25.000 (Kategori III).

The Last Hero: Ronaldinho

2008-05-19T09:46:00.000-07:00

One by one Brazilian palyer out from elite club. Last year, Ronaldo gone out from Santiago Bernabeu. May Ronaldinho go out from barcelona's palyers??? Joan Laporta Barcelona Precident Monday (19/5) say’s Ronaldinho to out from Nou Camp. It for to carier Ronaldinho. Dinho need new club to performance. So....??

Laliga Klasemen 2007-2008

2008-05-19T09:34:00.000-07:00

Finaly Klasemen Liga Primera La Liga Espanola 2007-2008

Deportivo Coruna 0 Villarreal 2
Getafe 1 Real Betis 1
Racing Santander 1 Osasuna 0
Espanyol 1 Almeria 3
Real Mallorca 3 Real Zaragoza 2
Real Madrid 5 Levante 2
Recreativo Huelva 1 Real Valladolid 1
Sevilla 4 Athletic Bilbao 1
Valencia 3 Atletico Madrid 1
Real Murcia 3 Barcelona 5

Klasemen
1 Real Madrid 38 27 4 7 84 36 85
2 Villarreal 38 24 5 9 63 40 77
-------------------------
3 Barcelona 38 19 10 9 76 43 67
4 Atletico Madrid 38 19 7 12 66 47 64
-------------------------
5 Sevilla 38 20 4 14 75 49 64
6 Racing Santander 38 17 9 12 42 41 60
-------------------------
7 Real Mallorca 38 15 14 9 69 54 59
8 Almeria 38 14 10 14 42 45 52
9 Deportivo Coruna 38 15 7 16 46 47 52
10 Valencia 38 15 6 17 48 62 51
11 Athletic Bilbao 38 13 11 14 40 43 50
12 Espanyol 38 13 9 16 43 53 48
13 Real Betis 38 12 11 15 45 51 47
14 Getafe 38 12 11 15 44 48 47
15 Real Valladolid 38 11 12 15 42 57 45
16 Recreativo Huelva 38 11 11 16 40 60 44
17 Osasuna 38 12 7 19 37 44 43
-------------------------
18 Real Zaragoza 38 10 12 16 50 61 42
19 Real Murcia 38 7 9 22 36 65 30
20 Levante 38 7 5 26 33 75 26

Bravo Nerrazuri

2008-05-19T08:51:00.001-07:00

Inter Milan Champion Again!
Interisti must be happy and say we are champione. Like Inter Milan player’s after wining two goal with Parma ini last game Italian seri A. Zlatan Ibrahimovic be a hero with two goal. This is 16 champion Inter. Or 3 winner in 3 last years. With 85 point, Inter wining from AS Roma.
Succes And Bravo Nerazurri…!

Skor at last giornata

Catania 1 Roma 1
Cagliari 2 Reggina 2
Siena 2 Palermo 2
Lazio 2 Napoli 1
Empoli 2 Livorno 1
Parma 0 Inter Milan 2
Torino 0 Fiorentina 1
AC Milan 4 Udinese 1

Finnaly Classemen:

Inter Milan 38 25 10 3 69 26 85
Roma 38 24 10 4 72 37 82
Juventus 38 20 12 6 72 37 72
Fiorentina 38 19 9 10 55 39 66
AC Milan 38 18 10 10 66 38 64
Sampdoria 38 17 9 12 56 46 60
Udinese 38 16 9 13 48 53 57
Napoli 38 14 8 16 50 53 50
Atalanta 38 12 12 14 52 56 48
Genoa 38 13 9 16 44 52 48
Palermo 38 12 11 15 47 57 47
Lazio 38 11 13 14 47 51 46
Siena 38 9 17 12 40 45 44
Cagliari 38 11 9 18 40 56 42
Torino 38 8 16 14 36 49 40
Reggina 38 9 13 16 37 56 40
Catania 38 8 13 17 33 45 37
Empoli 38 9 9 20 29 52 36
Parma 38 7 13 18 42 62 34
Livorno 38 6 12 20 35 60 30

Road To Champion League Final

2008-05-19T07:42:00.001-07:00

All England Final...! Two England Football Club Meet on fhase Final competition eropa club's in Moskow. Chelsea road to final after beaten his rival, Liverpool in semi final dramatic.
A goal Paul Scholes Mancester United to Barcelona at second leg, make Manchester United go to final.
Rival In Premier League will beat to be a Champion Eropa club's 2008! MU or Chelsea? We still looking for analyze. But I thinks, MU ready to be a Campions! With young player's MU be replay was succes ini 1999. Atractif and full technik, 2-1 Red Devil will beat The Blues. But this only my prediction becouse MU my favorit team. Your prediction?