Javier Aguirre may be preparing his side for their Champions League match with Marseille this Wednesday but the Mexican coach of Atlético Madrid will no doubt be pleased to see Diego Forlán back in the Spanish capital.
The striker injured himself in Atlético's Champions League opener against PSV Eindhoven and returned to Uruguay as he recovered but he is now back with the team and is believed to be only two or three weeks away from returning to the side.
Without him Atlético have not struggled too much thanks to the more than able Florent Sinama-Pongolle but seeing him work again at the training center will no doubt bring a smile to the face of Aguirre.
Also coming back to full fitness is Johnny Heitinga, who has struggled from a knee injury, and he is almost certain to play against Marseille as Atlético look to make it two wins from two in Europe.
Sinama: Agüero Is One Of The Best
Agüero: I Was Inspired
Revs on wrong side of history
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Acuña Close To Madrid Move
Real Madrid might have stopped doing business for the summer but it is thought that Real Madrid Castilla, the B side effectively, are close to bringing in a new signing to cover for the early season injury of Francisco.
Javier Acuña, currently a Cádiz player, came to the club two years ago for €800,000 but it is believed that he has not improved as expected and is now up for sale.
For this reason it seems odd that he would now move up to the heights of Real Madrid Castilla but the capital club are thought to have written to Cádiz asking to sign him and have put forward an offer for €400,000.
The Segunda División B side are reported to be holding out for at least €600,000 though and then with the proceeds will bring in Gustavo López, who impressed last season but is now without a club.
Real Madrid Castilla are notorious for producing quality players but recently they have seen many of their products move away from the capital to find success, such as Álvaro Negredo with Almería and Mata with Valencia.
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Javier Acuña, currently a Cádiz player, came to the club two years ago for €800,000 but it is believed that he has not improved as expected and is now up for sale.
For this reason it seems odd that he would now move up to the heights of Real Madrid Castilla but the capital club are thought to have written to Cádiz asking to sign him and have put forward an offer for €400,000.
The Segunda División B side are reported to be holding out for at least €600,000 though and then with the proceeds will bring in Gustavo López, who impressed last season but is now without a club.
Real Madrid Castilla are notorious for producing quality players but recently they have seen many of their products move away from the capital to find success, such as Álvaro Negredo with Almería and Mata with Valencia.
Villa Set To Sign New Contract
Wizards miss chance to gain ground
Cannavaro: Madrid Will Keep Winning
Aragonés Job Depending On Kiev Win?
Following Spain's marvellous march to glory at the European Championships this summer Luis Aragonés was hailed as one of the best managers in Europe.
With that tag he decided, somewhat surprisingly, to move to Turkey and coach Fenerbahce, where so far he has found life rather difficult. The 70 year old started the season with a 1-0 loss to Gaziantepspor and having played five matches in the league they currently sit 10th, having won just two and lost the other three.
In the Champions League Fenerbahce opened with a 3-1 loss away at Porto and now it is being reported in the Turkish newspaper 'Sabah' that if they fail to beat Dynamo Kiev tonight the manager could be out.
Consolation for Aragonés will come in the form of his sides impressive home record in the competition though which currently stands at 14 games unbeaten, stretching back to December 2004. Coupled with that their opponents have drawn one and lost seven of their last group games in this competition and are massive underdogs in Turkey on Tuesday night.
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With that tag he decided, somewhat surprisingly, to move to Turkey and coach Fenerbahce, where so far he has found life rather difficult. The 70 year old started the season with a 1-0 loss to Gaziantepspor and having played five matches in the league they currently sit 10th, having won just two and lost the other three.
In the Champions League Fenerbahce opened with a 3-1 loss away at Porto and now it is being reported in the Turkish newspaper 'Sabah' that if they fail to beat Dynamo Kiev tonight the manager could be out.
Consolation for Aragonés will come in the form of his sides impressive home record in the competition though which currently stands at 14 games unbeaten, stretching back to December 2004. Coupled with that their opponents have drawn one and lost seven of their last group games in this competition and are massive underdogs in Turkey on Tuesday night.
Hoops primed for must-win battle
Shorthanded Galaxy lack scoring punch
Senna: We’re Still Adjusting To Del Bosque
Monday, September 29, 2008
Weapon Carrying Sevilla Fans Detained
After the ferocity of the Catalan derby on Saturday night the last thing the Spanish authorities needed was more crowd trouble but it has been revealed today that 18 Sevilla fans were detained before the Atlético Madrid match on Sunday for carrying weapons.
The match went ahead without any problems but reports today say that police confiscated weapons including 42 baseball bats, two knives, three flares, four rockets and some CS spray.
Furthermore the police had to arrest one of the fans after he was accused of attacking them and causing damage.
The group of Sevilla fans noticed by the police on the night is said to have been about 50-60 strong and after doing identification checks they then decided to detain eighteen of those.
The news is both good and bad for the authorities in that, unlike the Catalan derby no dangerous weapons got into the ground, but it proves that there is still a hardcore element willing to carry such weapons.
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The match went ahead without any problems but reports today say that police confiscated weapons including 42 baseball bats, two knives, three flares, four rockets and some CS spray.
Furthermore the police had to arrest one of the fans after he was accused of attacking them and causing damage.
The group of Sevilla fans noticed by the police on the night is said to have been about 50-60 strong and after doing identification checks they then decided to detain eighteen of those.
The news is both good and bad for the authorities in that, unlike the Catalan derby no dangerous weapons got into the ground, but it proves that there is still a hardcore element willing to carry such weapons.
Adriano: Sevilla Still A Force
Maresca Angry With Derby Draw
Philly fans get MLS soccer fix in D.C.
Duscher: Salzburg Must Be Taken Seriously
The Andalusia club take a 2-0 lead to Austria for the second leg, and Duscher is under no illusions that the tie is over, particularly on Salzburg’s artificial turf.
He said, “We have to adapt, it is a little different from a natural surface, but we will suffer if they manage to get a goal. What we must do is try and kill the tie as soon as possible.”
An away goal would leave the hosts needing four goals to qualify, which you feel would be insurmountable task for the Austrian side. Especially given that Sevilla boast an unbeaten record in all competitions this season, a record that Duscher is particularly proud of.
“We have to go game by game because (in La Liga) anyone can beat anyone. In today’s highly competitive football going so long without losing shows great merit. But we have to keep working, we must settle because tomorrow we can lose and everything becomes negative.”
Sevilla have won their last two in La Liga, beating Espanyol 2-0 at home, before performing excellently to overcome Atletico Madrid 1-0 at the Vicente Calderon thanks to Luis Fabiano winner. They will be overwhelming favourites to progress to the group stages and continue their excellent record in the competition.
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He said, “We have to adapt, it is a little different from a natural surface, but we will suffer if they manage to get a goal. What we must do is try and kill the tie as soon as possible.”
An away goal would leave the hosts needing four goals to qualify, which you feel would be insurmountable task for the Austrian side. Especially given that Sevilla boast an unbeaten record in all competitions this season, a record that Duscher is particularly proud of.
“We have to go game by game because (in La Liga) anyone can beat anyone. In today’s highly competitive football going so long without losing shows great merit. But we have to keep working, we must settle because tomorrow we can lose and everything becomes negative.”
Sevilla have won their last two in La Liga, beating Espanyol 2-0 at home, before performing excellently to overcome Atletico Madrid 1-0 at the Vicente Calderon thanks to Luis Fabiano winner. They will be overwhelming favourites to progress to the group stages and continue their excellent record in the competition.
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La Liga Preview: Real Betis - Sevilla
Improved Crew eye benchmark
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Villa: I Want To Win The League With Valencia
It's fair to say it's been a pretty good year for David Villa, especially bearing in mind how badly it started with the various crisis siutations that took place at Valencia.
The Spanish striker not only won the Copa Del Rey with his club but then he went on to win Euro 2008 with Spain and in the process picked up the golden boot as he netted four goals. Now El Guaje says he has one thing left to add to his C.V. and that is to help Valencia win the league.
"The thing that I lack on my cover sheet, that I want to have, is to see Valencia win the league," he said, "I would love that a lot more than either the Pichichi or the Ballon d'Or."
So far this year Valencia have certainly started as if they mean business, currently undefeated and sitting top of the league after four matches. However, judging by the interview there is another competition which he wishes he was competing in this year.
"It is frustrating not to be in the Champions League because you see all the big teams and we are not there, but it gives us extra motivation for this year. The annoyance at having to watch the games rather than play should help us to qualify this time," he said.
There were of course plenty of rumours that Villa would not even be at the club this year but speaking today he said that signing his contract extension was the best day of his summer.
"After all that had happened over the months before the day that I signed my contract was the happiest of the summer," he began, "It was a very important day that caused me to realise many things, such as where I was really wanted and that the club really had faith in me."
Next up for Villa and Valencia is a match against Deportivo La Coruña this Sunday and if anybody expected El Guaje to be setting his sights low after the poor season last time out they should think again.
"This year I hope to obtain the Pichichi and the league title, because they can go hand in hand. What is more important though is the team and been part of that photo when Valencia are proclaimed champions of the league," he concluded.
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The Spanish striker not only won the Copa Del Rey with his club but then he went on to win Euro 2008 with Spain and in the process picked up the golden boot as he netted four goals. Now El Guaje says he has one thing left to add to his C.V. and that is to help Valencia win the league.
"The thing that I lack on my cover sheet, that I want to have, is to see Valencia win the league," he said, "I would love that a lot more than either the Pichichi or the Ballon d'Or."
So far this year Valencia have certainly started as if they mean business, currently undefeated and sitting top of the league after four matches. However, judging by the interview there is another competition which he wishes he was competing in this year.
"It is frustrating not to be in the Champions League because you see all the big teams and we are not there, but it gives us extra motivation for this year. The annoyance at having to watch the games rather than play should help us to qualify this time," he said.
There were of course plenty of rumours that Villa would not even be at the club this year but speaking today he said that signing his contract extension was the best day of his summer.
"After all that had happened over the months before the day that I signed my contract was the happiest of the summer," he began, "It was a very important day that caused me to realise many things, such as where I was really wanted and that the club really had faith in me."
Next up for Villa and Valencia is a match against Deportivo La Coruña this Sunday and if anybody expected El Guaje to be setting his sights low after the poor season last time out they should think again.
"This year I hope to obtain the Pichichi and the league title, because they can go hand in hand. What is more important though is the team and been part of that photo when Valencia are proclaimed champions of the league," he concluded.
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Aguirre: Agüero Is Not 100%
Atlético Madrid have been one of the most impressive teams in La Liga so far this season and the main reason behind their success has arguably been Sergio Agüero.
The young Argentine has been simply brilliant upfront and he looks set to play against Sevilla this Sunday even though coach Javier Aguirre admits it is not ideal after playing on Wednesday night too.
"He is going to play for ninety minutes, although if there is a chance to give him a rest then I will do it," he explained, "He is not at 100% but a lot depends on how the game goes."
Whilst Agüero will play Aguirre is without a few others players due to injuries and he acknowledges that whilst their home form has been great so far this season it cannot continue with 4-0 thrashings.
"We know that we cannot win every game 4-0 and that Sevilla are a great team so we want to play well and with the intention to win."
"We have a lot of respect for them and it will be a difficult game but we will of course try to win," he concluded.
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The young Argentine has been simply brilliant upfront and he looks set to play against Sevilla this Sunday even though coach Javier Aguirre admits it is not ideal after playing on Wednesday night too.
"He is going to play for ninety minutes, although if there is a chance to give him a rest then I will do it," he explained, "He is not at 100% but a lot depends on how the game goes."
Whilst Agüero will play Aguirre is without a few others players due to injuries and he acknowledges that whilst their home form has been great so far this season it cannot continue with 4-0 thrashings.
"We know that we cannot win every game 4-0 and that Sevilla are a great team so we want to play well and with the intention to win."
"We have a lot of respect for them and it will be a difficult game but we will of course try to win," he concluded.
Sinama: Agüero Is One Of The Best
Ekpo, Nigeria excited for shot at gold
Henry Not Ruling Anything Out
When Thierry Henry joined Barcelona back in 2007 he was hailed as one of the best players in Europe but since then he has barely found himself playing in Europe.
The ex-Arsenal star has either been played out of position or not played at all and as he spoke today he said he doesn't plan to leave the club but that he is not sure of what might happen in the future.
"Right now I do not plan to go and I do not expect that to change, although I don't really think about it," he said, "I do not know, there are times in your life when things happen that you did not think would. I didn't think that I would leave Arsenal and look where I am now."
Since joining the Spanish club Henry has only played 32 games and scored twelve times and even he admits that some of the criticism that has been thrown his way has been deserved, because as he says, 'I have not won anything with the team, therefore I understand that people always want more.'
Whilst he has not produced his best yet though Henry does have a valid excuse in that for many of his first few games he was actually injured, as he explains.
"I did not start well because when I arrived I was injured. I spoke with [Frank] Rijkaard and he told me that Ronaldinho was not ready to play and he asked if I was. I didn't want to sit out for three months so I played," he concluded.
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The ex-Arsenal star has either been played out of position or not played at all and as he spoke today he said he doesn't plan to leave the club but that he is not sure of what might happen in the future.
"Right now I do not plan to go and I do not expect that to change, although I don't really think about it," he said, "I do not know, there are times in your life when things happen that you did not think would. I didn't think that I would leave Arsenal and look where I am now."
Since joining the Spanish club Henry has only played 32 games and scored twelve times and even he admits that some of the criticism that has been thrown his way has been deserved, because as he says, 'I have not won anything with the team, therefore I understand that people always want more.'
Whilst he has not produced his best yet though Henry does have a valid excuse in that for many of his first few games he was actually injured, as he explains.
"I did not start well because when I arrived I was injured. I spoke with [Frank] Rijkaard and he told me that Ronaldinho was not ready to play and he asked if I was. I didn't want to sit out for three months so I played," he concluded.
Van Der Vaart Wanted Barça
Ekpo, Nigeria win silver in Beijing
Padula a quiet leader for Crew
Saturday, September 27, 2008
La Liga Preview: Malaga - Valladolid
What on paper appears to be one of the less attractive fixtures of the weekend in La Liga could mark the breaking of important new ground for both sides in La Rosaleda.
Goal Drought
Oh dear - Malaga still have not scored. Antonio Tapia’s newly promoted outfit would have anticipating having to undergo a Liga learning curve in the opening weeks of the season, as the club look to re-establish themselves in Spain’s top tier. Tactical approach, team selection and the inevitable extra focus in training on certain areas, after the experience of the early rounds, would have been plainly foreseen by management and players alike.
Indeed, even lying one from bottom in the table, above only a poor, pointless Sporting Gijon (who boast a quite frankly incredible -19 goal difference after four matches. That’s not a misprint by the way) wouldn’t exactly have surprised Tapia, but not seeing the opposition net bulge once since opening weekend is a real cause for concern.
In midweek, Malaga had plenty of possession against an albeit on-form Valencia defence, while the hosts pushed forward with confidence and vigour, and though they had one effort cleared off the line, actual goal scoring chances were few and far between.
You have to question the quality of the strikers, while Malaga, who have a considerable English following in the southern city, are a tad lacking in midfield creativity. The defence has not performed badly this season, but the seven goals conceded is a mark of a back line that receives no respite from misfiring forwards.
It seems like the free-scoring days of Dario Silva in the Malaga blue are long gone. It all has to change soon, or the club can kiss goodbye to it’s planned re-establishment as one of La Liga’s regular residents.
Travelling Without Moving
It has been a case of home and away and 'wish we weren’t here' postcards for Jose Mendilibar’s Valladolid. They have enjoyed a solid start to the campaign, but only thanks to some excellent home form.
Most evident in a shock victory over what, for the most part, was an Aguero-less Atletico Madrid in round 2, Valladolid also somewhat surprisingly overcame an in-form and increasingly confident Almeria in midweek. However, away from home is a completely different story.
Not only have this weekend's visitors to La Rosaleda come away with nothing from both away matches so far this season ,they have experienced a goal drought of their own to boot. Mendilibar, like Tapia on the Malaga bench, knows the trend must be remedied, not least against beatable opposition, and like his opposite number on Sunday, opportunity knocks for the breaking of unwanted habits.
Valladolid finished just three points clear of the drop in 15th last year. Five victories came away from home - just one less than the total achieved at the Estadio Jose Zorilla. Last season’s new boys need to start making their away day results count in the standings, because, sooner or later, whether it’s injuries or just plain bad luck, home from could evaporate.
For both sides this match is a great chance to get the season properly going and alleviate any mounting concerns, particularly for the hosts, and boost morale for the gruelling fixture list ahead.
FORM GUIDE
Malaga
LOST 2-0 (H) Valencia (25 Sept - La Liga)
LOST 1-0 (A) Almeria (21 Sept - La Liga)
DREW 0-0 (H) Athletic Bilbao (14 Sept - La Liga)
LOST 4-0 (A) Atletico Madrid (31 Aug - La Liga)
LOST 2-0 (A) Sevilla (23 Aug - Friendly)
Valladolid
WON 2-0 (H) Almeria (25 Sept - La Liga)
LOST 2-0 (A) Athletic Bilbao (21 Sept - La Liga)
WON 2-1 (H) Atletico Madrid (13 Sept - La Liga
LOST 1-0 (A) Espanyol (30 Aug - La Liga)
WON 5-2 (H) Atheltic Bilbao (23 Aug - Friendly)
TEAM NEWS
Malaga
Miguel Angel should return to anchor the midfield after a suspension, but striker Salva sits this one out after seeing red against former club Valencia. Apono and Rossato could also see some action having returned to training early this week, though the latter did not make the squad on Thursday.
After another goalless night, changes in attack are likely, and journeyman striker Albert Luque could get a start after coming off the bench against Los Che.
Little-used Warren proves worth for Revs
Emery: We Must Not Relax
Goal Drought
Oh dear - Malaga still have not scored. Antonio Tapia’s newly promoted outfit would have anticipating having to undergo a Liga learning curve in the opening weeks of the season, as the club look to re-establish themselves in Spain’s top tier. Tactical approach, team selection and the inevitable extra focus in training on certain areas, after the experience of the early rounds, would have been plainly foreseen by management and players alike.
Indeed, even lying one from bottom in the table, above only a poor, pointless Sporting Gijon (who boast a quite frankly incredible -19 goal difference after four matches. That’s not a misprint by the way) wouldn’t exactly have surprised Tapia, but not seeing the opposition net bulge once since opening weekend is a real cause for concern.
In midweek, Malaga had plenty of possession against an albeit on-form Valencia defence, while the hosts pushed forward with confidence and vigour, and though they had one effort cleared off the line, actual goal scoring chances were few and far between.
You have to question the quality of the strikers, while Malaga, who have a considerable English following in the southern city, are a tad lacking in midfield creativity. The defence has not performed badly this season, but the seven goals conceded is a mark of a back line that receives no respite from misfiring forwards.
It seems like the free-scoring days of Dario Silva in the Malaga blue are long gone. It all has to change soon, or the club can kiss goodbye to it’s planned re-establishment as one of La Liga’s regular residents.
Travelling Without Moving
It has been a case of home and away and 'wish we weren’t here' postcards for Jose Mendilibar’s Valladolid. They have enjoyed a solid start to the campaign, but only thanks to some excellent home form.
Most evident in a shock victory over what, for the most part, was an Aguero-less Atletico Madrid in round 2, Valladolid also somewhat surprisingly overcame an in-form and increasingly confident Almeria in midweek. However, away from home is a completely different story.
Not only have this weekend's visitors to La Rosaleda come away with nothing from both away matches so far this season ,they have experienced a goal drought of their own to boot. Mendilibar, like Tapia on the Malaga bench, knows the trend must be remedied, not least against beatable opposition, and like his opposite number on Sunday, opportunity knocks for the breaking of unwanted habits.
Valladolid finished just three points clear of the drop in 15th last year. Five victories came away from home - just one less than the total achieved at the Estadio Jose Zorilla. Last season’s new boys need to start making their away day results count in the standings, because, sooner or later, whether it’s injuries or just plain bad luck, home from could evaporate.
For both sides this match is a great chance to get the season properly going and alleviate any mounting concerns, particularly for the hosts, and boost morale for the gruelling fixture list ahead.
FORM GUIDE
Malaga
LOST 2-0 (H) Valencia (25 Sept - La Liga)
LOST 1-0 (A) Almeria (21 Sept - La Liga)
DREW 0-0 (H) Athletic Bilbao (14 Sept - La Liga)
LOST 4-0 (A) Atletico Madrid (31 Aug - La Liga)
LOST 2-0 (A) Sevilla (23 Aug - Friendly)
Valladolid
WON 2-0 (H) Almeria (25 Sept - La Liga)
LOST 2-0 (A) Athletic Bilbao (21 Sept - La Liga)
WON 2-1 (H) Atletico Madrid (13 Sept - La Liga
LOST 1-0 (A) Espanyol (30 Aug - La Liga)
WON 5-2 (H) Atheltic Bilbao (23 Aug - Friendly)
TEAM NEWS
Malaga
Miguel Angel should return to anchor the midfield after a suspension, but striker Salva sits this one out after seeing red against former club Valencia. Apono and Rossato could also see some action having returned to training early this week, though the latter did not make the squad on Thursday.
After another goalless night, changes in attack are likely, and journeyman striker Albert Luque could get a start after coming off the bench against Los Che.
Little-used Warren proves worth for Revs
Emery: We Must Not Relax
Ex-Madrid President Arrested
It was reported that the National Police Corps (Cuerpo Nacional de Policía) swooped on Sanz following allegations of swindling. Two others have also been arrested.
Sanz briefly served as Bernabéu president in the late 90s before Florentino Pérez arrived and set about his policy of 'galácticos'.
Sanz, meanwhile, moved south to Málaga, where he bought a controlling stake in Málaga CF. His son Fernando is club president.
The Sanz family have yet to comment on this revelation.
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Sanz briefly served as Bernabéu president in the late 90s before Florentino Pérez arrived and set about his policy of 'galácticos'.
Sanz, meanwhile, moved south to Málaga, where he bought a controlling stake in Málaga CF. His son Fernando is club president.
The Sanz family have yet to comment on this revelation.
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Soriano Secures Control Of Valencia
With Soriano's paying the remainding €65.4m to secure a majority stake, former president Juan Soler is now out of the picture.
The new chief shareholder and current president said, "We have carriedo ut a purchase option that we prepared at the time.
"Now this institution is able to work properly and smoothly. This represents peace and quiet."
With this in mind, Soriano, who has beaten Juan Villalonga in a power struggle, is now looking ahead to the new stadium project in Valencia.
"We're close to conducting two operations - exploiting the commercial area of the new stadium and sale of the parcels of land of the Mestalla. We'll do it soon," he said.
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The new chief shareholder and current president said, "We have carriedo ut a purchase option that we prepared at the time.
"Now this institution is able to work properly and smoothly. This represents peace and quiet."
With this in mind, Soriano, who has beaten Juan Villalonga in a power struggle, is now looking ahead to the new stadium project in Valencia.
"We're close to conducting two operations - exploiting the commercial area of the new stadium and sale of the parcels of land of the Mestalla. We'll do it soon," he said.
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Valencia Want Milito To Replace Villa?
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Mosquera Sprains Ankle
The seventeen-time capped Colombian international discovered this morning that, although there are no broken bones as was first feared, he has however sustained a level two sprain which will see him miss crucial matches both in La Liga and the UEFA cup.
The incident occurred in Sevilla’s 2-0 victory over Espanyol on Wednesday night, after a clash with an opposing defender that left the big defender unable to continue.
The 27 year-old have been trying to establish himself as a regular first-team player, and with the injury expected to keep him sidelined until the end of next month, it will set back his progress considerably.
Sevilla, who have made a steady start to the new campaign, have some difficult away fixtures in the coming weeks including trips to Atlectico Madrid, and Salzburg in their decisive second leg match in the UEFA cup.
Mosquera is unlikely to return before their home match against Malaga on the 26th of October, leaving boss Manolo Jiminez short of options defensively.
‘Old man’ Gaven sees more to learn
Emery: No Risks With Villa
The incident occurred in Sevilla’s 2-0 victory over Espanyol on Wednesday night, after a clash with an opposing defender that left the big defender unable to continue.
The 27 year-old have been trying to establish himself as a regular first-team player, and with the injury expected to keep him sidelined until the end of next month, it will set back his progress considerably.
Sevilla, who have made a steady start to the new campaign, have some difficult away fixtures in the coming weeks including trips to Atlectico Madrid, and Salzburg in their decisive second leg match in the UEFA cup.
Mosquera is unlikely to return before their home match against Malaga on the 26th of October, leaving boss Manolo Jiminez short of options defensively.
‘Old man’ Gaven sees more to learn
Emery: No Risks With Villa
I Am A Fascist - Abbiati
The shot stopper has been used sparingly by coach Carlo Ancelotti and he has been comfortable with his new role at the club.
Abbiati has decided to share his views on life away from the pitch and his revelations are likely to cause a stir in the football world.
"I am not ashamed of showing my political beliefs," Abbiati told Sportweek.
"I agree with some aspects of fascism like Patriotism and the values of the Catholic religion.
"Of Fascism I disagree with racial laws, allegiance to Hitler and the war but I like the capacity Fascism had to secure law and order, It guaranteed security for the people."
Although he has clearly stated his beliefs and disbeliefs regarding his political stance, Abbiati is unlikely to win any admirers in the world of football.
The game is always fighting against such narrow minded views like fascism and racism.
Celestini Slams Racist “Idiots”
Kljestan logging frequent flyer miles
Abbiati has decided to share his views on life away from the pitch and his revelations are likely to cause a stir in the football world.
"I am not ashamed of showing my political beliefs," Abbiati told Sportweek.
"I agree with some aspects of fascism like Patriotism and the values of the Catholic religion.
"Of Fascism I disagree with racial laws, allegiance to Hitler and the war but I like the capacity Fascism had to secure law and order, It guaranteed security for the people."
Although he has clearly stated his beliefs and disbeliefs regarding his political stance, Abbiati is unlikely to win any admirers in the world of football.
The game is always fighting against such narrow minded views like fascism and racism.
Celestini Slams Racist “Idiots”
Kljestan logging frequent flyer miles
Sneijder Ready For Return
The creative midfielder tore the cruciate ligament in his right knee less than two months ago after a clash with Arsenal’s Abou Diaby in a pre-season friendly.
The injury was expected to keep him sidelined until at least December, so for Bernt Schuster to see the diminutive Dutchman back in training will give his battle-scarred midfield a major boost.
It has been a miraculous comeback, and is testament to the determination of Sneijder to regain fitness and also the skill and care of the Real Madrid medical team who aided his recuperation.
He resumed light training just at the right time for Madrid, who saw Fernando Gago and then Guti pick up injuries that will rule them out of action for the next few weeks.
Although they will be reluctant to rush him back into the side, he may be required as soon as possible to cover for the loss of his teammates.
Real Madrid were in good spirits in training after their exhibition of skill outclassed Sporting Gijon 7-1 at the Bernabeu on Wednesday, and the Madrid faithful are desperate to see Sneijder re-united with his ex-Ajax compatriot Van Der Vaart in the centre of midfield.
Nihat Not Going To Rush Back
McCarty bringing Olympic experience home
The injury was expected to keep him sidelined until at least December, so for Bernt Schuster to see the diminutive Dutchman back in training will give his battle-scarred midfield a major boost.
It has been a miraculous comeback, and is testament to the determination of Sneijder to regain fitness and also the skill and care of the Real Madrid medical team who aided his recuperation.
He resumed light training just at the right time for Madrid, who saw Fernando Gago and then Guti pick up injuries that will rule them out of action for the next few weeks.
Although they will be reluctant to rush him back into the side, he may be required as soon as possible to cover for the loss of his teammates.
Real Madrid were in good spirits in training after their exhibition of skill outclassed Sporting Gijon 7-1 at the Bernabeu on Wednesday, and the Madrid faithful are desperate to see Sneijder re-united with his ex-Ajax compatriot Van Der Vaart in the centre of midfield.
Nihat Not Going To Rush Back
McCarty bringing Olympic experience home
Maniche Suffers Back Injury
Since his return from a loan spell at Inter Milan last season, the Portuguese midfield maestro has been in excellent form for the Madrid side, starting every match of the season so far, and has played a pivotal role in Los Rojiblancos excellent start to the campaign.
The collision occurred in the sixteenth minute of the match, and Maniche appeared to be in some distress as he left the field. Specialists have been conducting tests and it appears the 30-year old is almost certain to be missing from this weekends’ match versus Sevilla, and perhaps for even longer depending on the severity of the injury.
Maniche, who signed from Russian club Dynamo Moscow for 9 million Euros, has scored twice in five matches so far, including an impressive strike in the Champions league versus PSV Eindhoven, and his passing and drive have played no small part in Atletico currently topping La Liga with 10 points from four matches.
To compound manager Javier Aguirre’s misery, international team-mate Simao has picked up a knee injury and could well join his midfield compatriot on the sidelines for this weekends’ fixture. Whether Aguirre’s squad can cope with the loss of two key individuals remains to be seen.
Player Ratings: PSV Eindhoven 0-3 Atletico Madrid
Player Ratings: Atlético 4-0 Schalke
Hoops’ Ricchetti primed for United attack
The collision occurred in the sixteenth minute of the match, and Maniche appeared to be in some distress as he left the field. Specialists have been conducting tests and it appears the 30-year old is almost certain to be missing from this weekends’ match versus Sevilla, and perhaps for even longer depending on the severity of the injury.
Maniche, who signed from Russian club Dynamo Moscow for 9 million Euros, has scored twice in five matches so far, including an impressive strike in the Champions league versus PSV Eindhoven, and his passing and drive have played no small part in Atletico currently topping La Liga with 10 points from four matches.
To compound manager Javier Aguirre’s misery, international team-mate Simao has picked up a knee injury and could well join his midfield compatriot on the sidelines for this weekends’ fixture. Whether Aguirre’s squad can cope with the loss of two key individuals remains to be seen.
Player Ratings: PSV Eindhoven 0-3 Atletico Madrid
Player Ratings: Atlético 4-0 Schalke
Hoops’ Ricchetti primed for United attack
Brazilian Footballer Brutally Murdered
Da Silva, 25, formerly of Vasco, who had been playing for second division team Estacio de Sa Soccer Club, died in hospital last night in Rio de Janeiro.
Thiago died six days after he was kidnapped, tortured and finally mortally wounded by a firearm attack by three men in a football field.
According to reports from the local police, the instigator of the crime is da Silva’s former girlfriend.
Before he passed away, da Silva was able to tell the police that he had fallen into a trap last Thursday evening, shortly after discussing the end of his relationship with his girlfriend, Alyne Padula.
The former Vasco player was overwhelmed by three people (including a member of the military police), all of whom are friends of the girl's aunt.
He was handcuffed, beaten and tortured. When he tried to flee he was hit by three bullets.
Both the former girlfriend and her aunt, Marcia Padula Viana, were arrested on Sunday as instigators of the crime, and accused of hiring the assassins to kill da Silva.
Official: Estoyanoff Agrees Terms With Panionios
Improved Crew eye benchmark
Crew rally in second half to beat FCD
Thiago died six days after he was kidnapped, tortured and finally mortally wounded by a firearm attack by three men in a football field.
According to reports from the local police, the instigator of the crime is da Silva’s former girlfriend.
Before he passed away, da Silva was able to tell the police that he had fallen into a trap last Thursday evening, shortly after discussing the end of his relationship with his girlfriend, Alyne Padula.
The former Vasco player was overwhelmed by three people (including a member of the military police), all of whom are friends of the girl's aunt.
He was handcuffed, beaten and tortured. When he tried to flee he was hit by three bullets.
Both the former girlfriend and her aunt, Marcia Padula Viana, were arrested on Sunday as instigators of the crime, and accused of hiring the assassins to kill da Silva.
Official: Estoyanoff Agrees Terms With Panionios
Improved Crew eye benchmark
Crew rally in second half to beat FCD
Poll Results: Madrid Need A Striker
Yesterday we asked readers to vote on which position Real Madrid needed to strengthen in the winter transfer window.
It has long since been said by many that another striker is required at the Bernabéu, and indeed that was the most popular option: no less than 35.71% voted this way. Among the names mentioned were Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, Karim Benzema, and Lukas Podolski.
A close second, though, was the idea that the blancos required a winger. Such a theory has been put forward by none other than Arjen Robben, and supported to some extent by coach Bernd Schuster. 34.69% agreed with this assessment, and the likes of Joaquín, Aaron Lennon, Joe Cole, Bastian Schweinsteiger and, of course, Cristiano Ronaldo were mooted.
Other options were far less popular. 11.22% wanted an attacking midfielder, while 8.16% said that another centre-back was required.
Bringing up the rear, 4.08% wanted a new left-back, while 3.06% wanted either a right-back or a defensive midfielder.
The poll is still open: you can click here to vote. Remember, though, to look out for a new poll every single weekday here on Goal.com.
Wizards look to Thompson for goals
Poll Results: Readers Point Podolski To Roma
Madrid Set For Last-Gasp Villa Bid - Report
It has long since been said by many that another striker is required at the Bernabéu, and indeed that was the most popular option: no less than 35.71% voted this way. Among the names mentioned were Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, Karim Benzema, and Lukas Podolski.
A close second, though, was the idea that the blancos required a winger. Such a theory has been put forward by none other than Arjen Robben, and supported to some extent by coach Bernd Schuster. 34.69% agreed with this assessment, and the likes of Joaquín, Aaron Lennon, Joe Cole, Bastian Schweinsteiger and, of course, Cristiano Ronaldo were mooted.
Other options were far less popular. 11.22% wanted an attacking midfielder, while 8.16% said that another centre-back was required.
Bringing up the rear, 4.08% wanted a new left-back, while 3.06% wanted either a right-back or a defensive midfielder.
The poll is still open: you can click here to vote. Remember, though, to look out for a new poll every single weekday here on Goal.com.
Wizards look to Thompson for goals
Poll Results: Readers Point Podolski To Roma
Madrid Set For Last-Gasp Villa Bid - Report
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Emery: We Must Not Relax
Considering the rather turbulent summer that has just taken place at Valencia it is refreshing to see that they have emerged from it looking better, better than last season at least.
Los Che currently sit top of La Liga, alebit after only three rounds of matches, and despite facing a newly promoted Málaga side this Thursday their manager Unai Emery does not expect their performance levels to drop.
"I will fight so that the team does not drop their guard, we must have the winning mentality," he roared, "Málaga will not be easy, they will be motivated by their fans and will press."
"We will go with maximum respect to them and their coach and we know that they will have a good game plan for us," he explained.
Valencia play this match just four days after their their last league victory over Osasuna and Emery says that although conditions for rest are not ideal he is not complaining.
"With the short time we cannot play in our best condition but it is good to maintain a constant motivation and it is the same for our opponents," he mused.
It is expected that the manager will be making some changes for the match, bearing in mind Valencia play again on Sunday night. However, despite rumours that David Albelda could make a long awaited return to the midfield the manager would only say that 'the team will not be the same eleven that played on Sunday.'
Valencia Want Milito To Replace Villa?
Rest provides tonic for weary Revs
Unai-ty The Key To Valencia’s ‘Strong Ties’
Los Che currently sit top of La Liga, alebit after only three rounds of matches, and despite facing a newly promoted Málaga side this Thursday their manager Unai Emery does not expect their performance levels to drop.
"I will fight so that the team does not drop their guard, we must have the winning mentality," he roared, "Málaga will not be easy, they will be motivated by their fans and will press."
"We will go with maximum respect to them and their coach and we know that they will have a good game plan for us," he explained.
Valencia play this match just four days after their their last league victory over Osasuna and Emery says that although conditions for rest are not ideal he is not complaining.
"With the short time we cannot play in our best condition but it is good to maintain a constant motivation and it is the same for our opponents," he mused.
It is expected that the manager will be making some changes for the match, bearing in mind Valencia play again on Sunday night. However, despite rumours that David Albelda could make a long awaited return to the midfield the manager would only say that 'the team will not be the same eleven that played on Sunday.'
Valencia Want Milito To Replace Villa?
Rest provides tonic for weary Revs
Unai-ty The Key To Valencia’s ‘Strong Ties’
La Liga Preview: Mallorca - Numancia
Winning promotion to the top flight brings with it the dream of playing against the best teams in the country on a level playing field and trying to cause a surprise against one or more of them. The problem for Numancia has been however, that those dreams have come almost all at once sa they were handed a very difficult start to their return to la Primera.
Barcelona, Real Madrid and Villarreal were lined up for coach Sergio Kresic and his players to truly test their mettle after bouncing back to the top flight at the end of last term. All the summer celebrations and subsequent planning and wheeling and dealing would be severely put to the test by the top three sides in the first division at the end of last season.
Things could not have started any better for the Soria-based outfit though, than they did when the Blaugrana visited Los Parajitos on the opening day and were sent away with their tails betweent heir legs thanks to a solitary goal from Mario was enough to send the local side into wonderland. A determined defensive performance ensured that all three points were secured along with the surprise of the weekend.
Two weeks later Numancia held their own in the Bernabéu and were beaten by the odd-goal in seven against a Real Madrid side that required an own goal to win the game. Vilarreal may have then been seen as, arguably, the weakest of three teams that Numancia had to face, but over the two incredible openers they again showed that they can cause even the best problems, despite losing at home to the Yellow Submarine.
Now comes the acid test with Numancia knowing that if they are to stay among the big boys for longer than one campaign then they will have to start picking up points against the sides that have also been tipped to struggle and, whether rightly or wrongly, Real Mallorca are always included in that category despite a very encouraging performance last season.
While a top ten placing last term should have pointed the way towards better things, as is the norm, the bigger clubs decided that the Balearic club's stars were an attractive proposition. Fernando Navarro, Ariel Ibagaza, Jonás Gutiérrez, Dani Güiza and Borja Valero all left and swelled the club's bank balance, but that list of names was always going to be difficult to replace.
Coach Gregorio Manzano is well aware that finances must always be carefully balanced at the Son Moix outfit, but even he must have been surprised tha quite so many outstanding offers were made in the same summer break for his players. Several new faces have been brought in, but it is not only unknonw yet whether they can be as good but also whether they wil be able to gel with each other.
The start of the season has not been particularly encouraging with two draws and a defeat, but the point earned in a goalless game at Deportivo last weekend could be seen as a step in the right direction, given the fact that they had previously been beaten by Valencia in Mestalla before Osasuna earned a point from a visit to Mallorca.
RECENT FORM
Real Mallorca
Sep 21 A 0-0 Deportivo
Sep 14 H 1-1 Osasuna
Aug 30 A 0-3 Valencia
Aug 09 A 1-1 WBA
Aug 03 H 1-0 Newcastle
Aug 01 A 4-2 Hannover
Espindola injured in RSL draw
Madrid Internationals Back In Training
Evans showing goal-scoring touch
Barcelona, Real Madrid and Villarreal were lined up for coach Sergio Kresic and his players to truly test their mettle after bouncing back to the top flight at the end of last term. All the summer celebrations and subsequent planning and wheeling and dealing would be severely put to the test by the top three sides in the first division at the end of last season.
Things could not have started any better for the Soria-based outfit though, than they did when the Blaugrana visited Los Parajitos on the opening day and were sent away with their tails betweent heir legs thanks to a solitary goal from Mario was enough to send the local side into wonderland. A determined defensive performance ensured that all three points were secured along with the surprise of the weekend.
Two weeks later Numancia held their own in the Bernabéu and were beaten by the odd-goal in seven against a Real Madrid side that required an own goal to win the game. Vilarreal may have then been seen as, arguably, the weakest of three teams that Numancia had to face, but over the two incredible openers they again showed that they can cause even the best problems, despite losing at home to the Yellow Submarine.
Now comes the acid test with Numancia knowing that if they are to stay among the big boys for longer than one campaign then they will have to start picking up points against the sides that have also been tipped to struggle and, whether rightly or wrongly, Real Mallorca are always included in that category despite a very encouraging performance last season.
While a top ten placing last term should have pointed the way towards better things, as is the norm, the bigger clubs decided that the Balearic club's stars were an attractive proposition. Fernando Navarro, Ariel Ibagaza, Jonás Gutiérrez, Dani Güiza and Borja Valero all left and swelled the club's bank balance, but that list of names was always going to be difficult to replace.
Coach Gregorio Manzano is well aware that finances must always be carefully balanced at the Son Moix outfit, but even he must have been surprised tha quite so many outstanding offers were made in the same summer break for his players. Several new faces have been brought in, but it is not only unknonw yet whether they can be as good but also whether they wil be able to gel with each other.
The start of the season has not been particularly encouraging with two draws and a defeat, but the point earned in a goalless game at Deportivo last weekend could be seen as a step in the right direction, given the fact that they had previously been beaten by Valencia in Mestalla before Osasuna earned a point from a visit to Mallorca.
RECENT FORM
Real Mallorca
Sep 21 A 0-0 Deportivo
Sep 14 H 1-1 Osasuna
Aug 30 A 0-3 Valencia
Aug 09 A 1-1 WBA
Aug 03 H 1-0 Newcastle
Aug 01 A 4-2 Hannover
Espindola injured in RSL draw
Madrid Internationals Back In Training
Evans showing goal-scoring touch
Canobbio: I Need Confidence
Valladolid might well have downed mighty Atlético Madrid at the José Zorilla this season but that victory aside they have been far from impressive.
José Luis Mendilibar's side have just the three points to show from their opening three games and midfielder Fabián Canobbio says that despite his happiness at debuting in the defeat to Athletic Bilbao he was dissappointed with the result.
"I was very happy to play some minutes and to begin to get into the side, but the game itself was not good and I believe we lost some good form given that we didn't play very well. Bilbao did not do more than us but they deserved to win," he mused.
Canobbio joined Valladolid this summer after a four year spell at Celta Vigo, where he scored 22 goals in 104 appearances, and he says he needs to regain both his confidence and his competitive edge after the move.
"I am feeling better as the weeks and the training goes by," he said, "Now I have to win confidence and compete, that is not the same as just training and it is what I lack."
The next chance for the midfielder to get some minutes will be against high flying Almería on Thursday night, although he knows it will be a tough match.
"They are a strong team who play good football and have very good dynamics of play. Last season they did great and they have started well this year, it will be an important game and one we will have to work hard to win," he concluded.
Flaño: First Victory Is Vital
Ever-positive attitude key for Zayner
Crew breeding competitive environment
José Luis Mendilibar's side have just the three points to show from their opening three games and midfielder Fabián Canobbio says that despite his happiness at debuting in the defeat to Athletic Bilbao he was dissappointed with the result.
"I was very happy to play some minutes and to begin to get into the side, but the game itself was not good and I believe we lost some good form given that we didn't play very well. Bilbao did not do more than us but they deserved to win," he mused.
Canobbio joined Valladolid this summer after a four year spell at Celta Vigo, where he scored 22 goals in 104 appearances, and he says he needs to regain both his confidence and his competitive edge after the move.
"I am feeling better as the weeks and the training goes by," he said, "Now I have to win confidence and compete, that is not the same as just training and it is what I lack."
The next chance for the midfielder to get some minutes will be against high flying Almería on Thursday night, although he knows it will be a tough match.
"They are a strong team who play good football and have very good dynamics of play. Last season they did great and they have started well this year, it will be an important game and one we will have to work hard to win," he concluded.
Flaño: First Victory Is Vital
Ever-positive attitude key for Zayner
Crew breeding competitive environment
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Maresca Angry With Derby Draw
It was supposed to be a fiery contest full of goals and action but instead the Seville derby was a rather understated affair, with no goals to speak of in the ninety minutes.
Speaking today after the match Sevilla midfielder Enzo Maresca said himself and his team-mates are frustrated at the 0-0 scoreline.
"Everyone is angry because we have not beaten Betis and have only got one point," he began, " It is normal that this team is criticised because we always want to do more. It shows that we settle for nothing other than the best."
Despite the result and the obvious annoyance though Maresca did find solace in the fact that since he joined the club three years ago they have come on leaps and bounds and even changed the marker for what is a good result at their rivals stadium.
"When I arrived three years ago a draw at their ground was positive and today a tie, playing badly, causes frustration. We are all angry and that means we have improved and are ambitious," he explained.
Similarly the midfielder did recognise that Betis, with a summer of big spending behind them, had also improved.
"It is my fourth season and that is the best Betis side I have seen but still I believe they have gone six derbies without scoring and with the draw they are happy and we are angry."
"That is the difference between Sevilla and Betis which has gone upside down from six years ago," he mused.
The result aside Maresca also defended the 'defensive' pre-match decisions of his manager Manolo Jiménez which included leaving wingers Diego Capel and Jesus Navas on the bench.
"The manager was convinced that with the team we had we could do well," he opined, "Although things didn't go as planned we put out a team to win and to cause trouble to Betis."
So far Sevilla have looked rather inconsistent at the beginning of the new season, with two draws and one victory in the league to their name. Next up for them is a home match against Espanyol and Maresca knows that his side have to start well if they are to avoid getting the fans on their backs.
"On Wednesday if we do not start well in the early minutes then everyone will be on top of us."
"Football is like that though and one must take responsibility, there will be no problems for us with whistles," he concluded bravely.
Resurgent Quakes alive in playoff race
La Liga Preview: Real Betis - Sevilla
Speaking today after the match Sevilla midfielder Enzo Maresca said himself and his team-mates are frustrated at the 0-0 scoreline.
"Everyone is angry because we have not beaten Betis and have only got one point," he began, " It is normal that this team is criticised because we always want to do more. It shows that we settle for nothing other than the best."
Despite the result and the obvious annoyance though Maresca did find solace in the fact that since he joined the club three years ago they have come on leaps and bounds and even changed the marker for what is a good result at their rivals stadium.
"When I arrived three years ago a draw at their ground was positive and today a tie, playing badly, causes frustration. We are all angry and that means we have improved and are ambitious," he explained.
Similarly the midfielder did recognise that Betis, with a summer of big spending behind them, had also improved.
"It is my fourth season and that is the best Betis side I have seen but still I believe they have gone six derbies without scoring and with the draw they are happy and we are angry."
"That is the difference between Sevilla and Betis which has gone upside down from six years ago," he mused.
The result aside Maresca also defended the 'defensive' pre-match decisions of his manager Manolo Jiménez which included leaving wingers Diego Capel and Jesus Navas on the bench.
"The manager was convinced that with the team we had we could do well," he opined, "Although things didn't go as planned we put out a team to win and to cause trouble to Betis."
So far Sevilla have looked rather inconsistent at the beginning of the new season, with two draws and one victory in the league to their name. Next up for them is a home match against Espanyol and Maresca knows that his side have to start well if they are to avoid getting the fans on their backs.
"On Wednesday if we do not start well in the early minutes then everyone will be on top of us."
"Football is like that though and one must take responsibility, there will be no problems for us with whistles," he concluded bravely.
Resurgent Quakes alive in playoff race
La Liga Preview: Real Betis - Sevilla
Flaño: First Victory Is Vital
It's been a dissappointing start to the season for Osasuna in terms of points gained, and yet before this weekend the Navarran side were actually unbeaten in the league. The 1-0 defeat to Valencia followed 1-1 draws with both Mallorca and Villarreal and young defender Javier Flaño knows his side have to start winning soon.
"The team is playing quite well but we need to show that with a good result," he opined, "Although the season has only just begun results are important and come Wednesday we must pick up our first victory."
The match which Flaño is targetting for their opening win is the home clash against Deportivo La Coruña and the right-back assured the press today that everyone in the side was confident heading into the game.
"So far we have lacked a little bit at the start of games and we haven't concentrated throughout the ninety minutes. This means we haven't picked up the victory to gain confidence and to banish any doubts."
"In the team there are no doubts though and we all have confidence in ourselves," he explained.
Flaño got a chance to play in the defeat to Valencia following the sending off of César Azpilicueta and he says he hopes to continue been of service for his club.
"I have been hoping for some time to be in the team because I have great desires to play, with good feelings and to make things turn out well for both the team and myself," he concluded.
Madrid Internationals Back In Training
Ekpo draws pride from Olympic success
Salgado: Robinho Can Do More
"The team is playing quite well but we need to show that with a good result," he opined, "Although the season has only just begun results are important and come Wednesday we must pick up our first victory."
The match which Flaño is targetting for their opening win is the home clash against Deportivo La Coruña and the right-back assured the press today that everyone in the side was confident heading into the game.
"So far we have lacked a little bit at the start of games and we haven't concentrated throughout the ninety minutes. This means we haven't picked up the victory to gain confidence and to banish any doubts."
"In the team there are no doubts though and we all have confidence in ourselves," he explained.
Flaño got a chance to play in the defeat to Valencia following the sending off of César Azpilicueta and he says he hopes to continue been of service for his club.
"I have been hoping for some time to be in the team because I have great desires to play, with good feelings and to make things turn out well for both the team and myself," he concluded.
Madrid Internationals Back In Training
Ekpo draws pride from Olympic success
Salgado: Robinho Can Do More
Cortés: If Kun Plays Badly, I Can Mark Him!
The Badajoz-born right-back put in a fine shift against Espanyol in Geta's 1-1 draw at the weekend, but he knows that Atlético Madrid will provide a tougher proposition at the weekend, not least due to the presence of Agüero.
"You have to have a good game and he a bad one to do well," he said.
"But we need to think more collectively and not just talk of one player. They have one of the best squads in the league so we can't highlight just one man.
"They have an incredible squad. El Kun is slightly above the rest, but they still have the squad to resolve any match."
The ex-Mallorca man stated that both sides are in "a good moment", not least due to Getafe's unbeaten status, but knows that the rojiblancos have the upper hand on head-to-head.
"It's my third year here and in that time we haven't beaten Atlético," he said.
"We've had our chances but we've never quite pulled it off.
"We know that they have beaten Málaga and Recreativo, and against PSV they were amazing. So we have to pay attention to them defensively - not just the goalie and the back four. That doesn't mean we'll throw everything backwards - to do that is to risk everything, especially against teams like these."
Undermanned Galaxy plan on victory
Agüero: I Was Inspired
Davino injury puts Moor in spotlight
Official: Estoyanoff Agrees Terms With Panionios
"You have to have a good game and he a bad one to do well," he said.
"But we need to think more collectively and not just talk of one player. They have one of the best squads in the league so we can't highlight just one man.
"They have an incredible squad. El Kun is slightly above the rest, but they still have the squad to resolve any match."
The ex-Mallorca man stated that both sides are in "a good moment", not least due to Getafe's unbeaten status, but knows that the rojiblancos have the upper hand on head-to-head.
"It's my third year here and in that time we haven't beaten Atlético," he said.
"We've had our chances but we've never quite pulled it off.
"We know that they have beaten Málaga and Recreativo, and against PSV they were amazing. So we have to pay attention to them defensively - not just the goalie and the back four. That doesn't mean we'll throw everything backwards - to do that is to risk everything, especially against teams like these."
Undermanned Galaxy plan on victory
Agüero: I Was Inspired
Davino injury puts Moor in spotlight
Official: Estoyanoff Agrees Terms With Panionios
Monday, September 22, 2008
We Have The Strength In Depth - Pires
The former French international spoke after Villarreal’s impressive 2-1 victory in Numancia put the Yellow Submarines joint 1st in the table after three matches, and Pires hopes to use that display as the blueprint for success against Racing Santander.
“It is good that we have a level of squad where it is difficult to break into the team. Racing Santander will make things complicated for us, but if we play like we did against Numancia, with the quality and patience we had, we can make things easier.”
Pires also said this week was ‘very important’ in terms of the La Liga Championship, and they must avoid losing points wherever possible if they are to maintain their Champions League status next season.
Villarreal have had to fully utilise this squad recently, particularly in the striking department, yet they have managed to accumulate seven points from three from a possible nine, as well as a very useful 0-0 draw away to European champions Manchester United.
United host FCD side in transition
Madrid Internationals Back In Training
“It is good that we have a level of squad where it is difficult to break into the team. Racing Santander will make things complicated for us, but if we play like we did against Numancia, with the quality and patience we had, we can make things easier.”
Pires also said this week was ‘very important’ in terms of the La Liga Championship, and they must avoid losing points wherever possible if they are to maintain their Champions League status next season.
Villarreal have had to fully utilise this squad recently, particularly in the striking department, yet they have managed to accumulate seven points from three from a possible nine, as well as a very useful 0-0 draw away to European champions Manchester United.
United host FCD side in transition
Madrid Internationals Back In Training
Spanish Debate: Who Will be The Next Barcelona Success Story?
Every team loves to have a local boy made good among their ranks, and Barcelona are no exception. Indeed, the sense of Catalan pride at Camp Nou arguably makes it a greater mission for the blaugrana than it is at clubs of comparable size.
In recent seasons, though, youth players have been thin on the ground in the first team. Bojan Krkic and Giovani Dos Santos aside, the number of youngsters coming through has been very low (and the number of Catalans lower.)
Txiki Begiristain, the sporting director, has been criticised for this by some quarters. It is thought that he has allowed some players to leave without first giving them a chance to prove that they could make the grade. There's something to be said for this theory when one looks at the Camp Nou alumni making it big elsewhere, and as recently as this summer the likes of Marc Crosas and Marc Valiente have been shuffled off.
But at the same time, many of their compatriots have begun to carve out roles in the first team, however modest. Much of this must be down to the choice of coach: Pep Guardiola, who bossed many of these hopefuls in the B squad, is now in charge of the first team. He is certainly using this opportunity to give some of his protégés a chance further up.
Yet some fans will ask, exactly who are these players? None of them are as readily recognised as a big-money signing, and some have only a year of Segunda B experience to their names so far. Here we'll look at some of FCB's top young players who are looking to, or who already have made the breakthrough into the senior squad. Afterwards, we can discuss via the Comments system who has the best chance to succeed.
Players are given in order of squad number.
#26 Oier Olazábal (Goalkeeper, born 14 September 1989)
At 19 Oier has already appeared for the first team, albeit in the Copa del Rey, and has won a place on the bench on a few occasions due to Albert Jorquera's injury. However, with José Manuel Pinto in the squad, prospects of further appearances seem to be limited - quite a surprise considering that he only arrived at Barça B in 2007 from hometown club Real Union de Irún.
#27 Pedro Rodríguez (Winger/Forward, born 28 July 1987)
Not a Catalan, but certainly a Barcelona product - at least as a senior player. As a sixteen-year-old he played for San Isidro in the Canary Islands section of the Tercera División, but was promptly whisked off to the Barcelona 'Juvenil' setup after being talent-spotted by the blaugrana. Since then he's played on the flanks for the B team, racking up a respectable goal tally but being prized more for his assists than his striking ability. So far he has made five competitive appearances for the first team, but with the front line being extremely crowded with talent he may have to wait for an injury to the likes of Lionel Messi before getting much more of a chance to start.
#28 Sergi Busquets (Central Midfielder, born 16 July 1988)
Prior to this season Sergi's main run-outs with the big boys came in the Copa Catalunya, which, it is fair to say, is not the leading competition for Barcelona. But apparently Busquets has seized his chances to impress because he has come from seemingly nowhere to become a leading youth player at Barcelona. So much has he struck Pep Guardiola as a talent that he even started away to Sporting Gijón in the Liga on Sunday evening, picking up an excellent player rating from Goal.com of 8.5. A powerhouse who has bulked up impressively, considering his age, Busquets could well be the most promising player of the current batch.
#29 Víctor Sánchez (Centre-Back, born 8 September 1987)
At just 5'8", Víctor doesn't look like a centre-back, but the ex-CE Europa boy has nonetheless won the confidence of Luis Enrique and Guardiola both. The fact that he can push forward into midfield helps a lot. Pacy and energetic, his ability to play high up the pitch could see him drafted in as an option to play alongside a more imposing stopper against forwards who enjoy running onto through balls - just what FCB need in some games.
#30 Víctor Vázquez (Deep-Lying Forward, born 20 January 1987)
A real local boy, Víctor grew up in L'Hospitalet with the dream of making it big with Barcelona. Having already appeared in the Copa del Rey and on a few Liga match lists, he's only played one first team game so far in the Liga due to injury concerns and great squad competition. Obscurity could await him, but on the other hand his versatility could see him drafted in to fill one of many gaps. He just needs to stay fit to have a chance.
#31 Jeffrén Suárez (Winger, born 20 January 1987)
Born in Venezuela, Jeffrén has been with the blaugrana since he was a young teenager. A key influence in the B team's return to the Segunda B last year, he was rewarded with a key role in Barcelona's pre-season campaign, where he scored not once, but twice. A Liga debut cannot be too far away for this winger, who relishes the chance to cut inside. However, squad competition may be his downfall.
#34 Xavi Torres (Defensive Midfielder, born November 21 1986)
Only recently did the 21-year-old Torres arrive at Camp Nou, having cut his youth teeth with Villarreal. The Alicante-born midfielder can also play at centre-back, although at under six feet tall he is at an aerial disadvantage. The fact that Busquets shares his position means that first team action could be beyond him for the most part, although he could get a chance in the cups.
Gai Assulin (Attacker, born 9 April 1991)
At just 17 years of age, 'Gai' is a full Israel international who has recently won fulsome praise from B team coach Luis Enrique. Like many others he is disadvantaged by the fact that Barcelona's squad remains so top-heavy, but having hit eight goals during the B team's rise to the Segunda B, he is starting to catch the eyes of the senior squad. He's not in the Champions League pool, but expect a league debut towards the end of the season.
Thiago Alcántara (Midfielder, born 11 April 1991)
Like Gai, time is on his side: he's still just 17 years old. One of the more cosmopolitan players in Barça's ranks, the Italy-born midfielder's father is Mazinho, an ex-footballer from Brazil. (In any case, he shares a surname with Pelé.) Thiago was expected to be one of the next big things in the midfield already, and it's a bit of a worry that Busquets has jumped him in the queue, but he still has lots of time to develop.
Of course there are more players, but these are some of the more prominent ones. Have any caught your eye already? Who do you think will make the grade? Let us know your thoughts.
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In recent seasons, though, youth players have been thin on the ground in the first team. Bojan Krkic and Giovani Dos Santos aside, the number of youngsters coming through has been very low (and the number of Catalans lower.)
Txiki Begiristain, the sporting director, has been criticised for this by some quarters. It is thought that he has allowed some players to leave without first giving them a chance to prove that they could make the grade. There's something to be said for this theory when one looks at the Camp Nou alumni making it big elsewhere, and as recently as this summer the likes of Marc Crosas and Marc Valiente have been shuffled off.
But at the same time, many of their compatriots have begun to carve out roles in the first team, however modest. Much of this must be down to the choice of coach: Pep Guardiola, who bossed many of these hopefuls in the B squad, is now in charge of the first team. He is certainly using this opportunity to give some of his protégés a chance further up.
Yet some fans will ask, exactly who are these players? None of them are as readily recognised as a big-money signing, and some have only a year of Segunda B experience to their names so far. Here we'll look at some of FCB's top young players who are looking to, or who already have made the breakthrough into the senior squad. Afterwards, we can discuss via the Comments system who has the best chance to succeed.
Players are given in order of squad number.
#26 Oier Olazábal (Goalkeeper, born 14 September 1989)
At 19 Oier has already appeared for the first team, albeit in the Copa del Rey, and has won a place on the bench on a few occasions due to Albert Jorquera's injury. However, with José Manuel Pinto in the squad, prospects of further appearances seem to be limited - quite a surprise considering that he only arrived at Barça B in 2007 from hometown club Real Union de Irún.
#27 Pedro Rodríguez (Winger/Forward, born 28 July 1987)
Not a Catalan, but certainly a Barcelona product - at least as a senior player. As a sixteen-year-old he played for San Isidro in the Canary Islands section of the Tercera División, but was promptly whisked off to the Barcelona 'Juvenil' setup after being talent-spotted by the blaugrana. Since then he's played on the flanks for the B team, racking up a respectable goal tally but being prized more for his assists than his striking ability. So far he has made five competitive appearances for the first team, but with the front line being extremely crowded with talent he may have to wait for an injury to the likes of Lionel Messi before getting much more of a chance to start.
#28 Sergi Busquets (Central Midfielder, born 16 July 1988)
Prior to this season Sergi's main run-outs with the big boys came in the Copa Catalunya, which, it is fair to say, is not the leading competition for Barcelona. But apparently Busquets has seized his chances to impress because he has come from seemingly nowhere to become a leading youth player at Barcelona. So much has he struck Pep Guardiola as a talent that he even started away to Sporting Gijón in the Liga on Sunday evening, picking up an excellent player rating from Goal.com of 8.5. A powerhouse who has bulked up impressively, considering his age, Busquets could well be the most promising player of the current batch.
#29 Víctor Sánchez (Centre-Back, born 8 September 1987)
At just 5'8", Víctor doesn't look like a centre-back, but the ex-CE Europa boy has nonetheless won the confidence of Luis Enrique and Guardiola both. The fact that he can push forward into midfield helps a lot. Pacy and energetic, his ability to play high up the pitch could see him drafted in as an option to play alongside a more imposing stopper against forwards who enjoy running onto through balls - just what FCB need in some games.
#30 Víctor Vázquez (Deep-Lying Forward, born 20 January 1987)
A real local boy, Víctor grew up in L'Hospitalet with the dream of making it big with Barcelona. Having already appeared in the Copa del Rey and on a few Liga match lists, he's only played one first team game so far in the Liga due to injury concerns and great squad competition. Obscurity could await him, but on the other hand his versatility could see him drafted in to fill one of many gaps. He just needs to stay fit to have a chance.
#31 Jeffrén Suárez (Winger, born 20 January 1987)
Born in Venezuela, Jeffrén has been with the blaugrana since he was a young teenager. A key influence in the B team's return to the Segunda B last year, he was rewarded with a key role in Barcelona's pre-season campaign, where he scored not once, but twice. A Liga debut cannot be too far away for this winger, who relishes the chance to cut inside. However, squad competition may be his downfall.
#34 Xavi Torres (Defensive Midfielder, born November 21 1986)
Only recently did the 21-year-old Torres arrive at Camp Nou, having cut his youth teeth with Villarreal. The Alicante-born midfielder can also play at centre-back, although at under six feet tall he is at an aerial disadvantage. The fact that Busquets shares his position means that first team action could be beyond him for the most part, although he could get a chance in the cups.
Gai Assulin (Attacker, born 9 April 1991)
At just 17 years of age, 'Gai' is a full Israel international who has recently won fulsome praise from B team coach Luis Enrique. Like many others he is disadvantaged by the fact that Barcelona's squad remains so top-heavy, but having hit eight goals during the B team's rise to the Segunda B, he is starting to catch the eyes of the senior squad. He's not in the Champions League pool, but expect a league debut towards the end of the season.
Thiago Alcántara (Midfielder, born 11 April 1991)
Like Gai, time is on his side: he's still just 17 years old. One of the more cosmopolitan players in Barça's ranks, the Italy-born midfielder's father is Mazinho, an ex-footballer from Brazil. (In any case, he shares a surname with Pelé.) Thiago was expected to be one of the next big things in the midfield already, and it's a bit of a worry that Busquets has jumped him in the queue, but he still has lots of time to develop.
Of course there are more players, but these are some of the more prominent ones. Have any caught your eye already? Who do you think will make the grade? Let us know your thoughts.
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La Liga Team Of The Week: Round 3
Formation: 4 -3-2-1
Goalkeeper
Miguel Moya – (Real Mallorca)
Chiefly responsible for the islanders’ clean sheet in the Riazor, making a host of saves as Depor piled the pressure on. A few clubs showed some interest in the summer but never made a concrete move. If Moya keeps perfoming this way that could change very quickly.
Defenders
Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid)
Excellent in both attack and defence in Santander, showing bucket loads of energy and desire going forward, making the opposing left winger and left back think twice at every juncture.
Juanito (Real Betis)
At the heart of a defence that kept the heralded Sevilla forward line pretty quiet, and went so close to grabbing the vital goal, only for the post to deny the Beticos for the second time in the match.
Carles Puyol (Barcelona)
Commanding performance from the Barca icon who kept last week’s hat trick hero Mate Bilic quiet. Barca were at last excellent in Gijon, but Puyol’s form has been solid throughout.
Giourkas Seitaridis (Atletico Madrid)
Bounding up and down the right hand side all evening (he's in at left back here, where he can play at a push), the Greek caused Recre all kinds of problems, as well as coping well defensively.
Midfield
Maniche (Atletico Madrid)
Outstanding performance from the former Porto man, who was at his archetypal best in aiding the destruction of Recre. The classic box-to-box display, he was absolutely everywhere and netted with an excellent strike.
Xavi (Barcelona)
What a season it seems this guy is set to have. Off the back of a simply superb Euros, Xavi dictated every incision of the Gijon dissection with typical ease.
Ruben De La Red (Real Madrid)
Eye-catching display from a player who’s game is so easy on the eye. This weekend though, he showed a different side to his game in a defensive capacity, and slotted in seamlessly. He could be an important player with Sneijder, and now Gago and Guti all out of contention.
Wingers
Santi Cazorla (Villarreal)
Gets in the best eleven again with another key contribution from the international winger, who got Villarreal all the points in round two. Has and will continue to prove such an important figure for Los Submarino Amarillo this season, proving a crucial supplier of goals already this season with Nihat and Rossi injured.
Andres Iniesta (Barcelona)
Outstanding from the pint sized box of tricks. Scored one and set-up another as probably the Blaugrana’s best player on a night of some great individual performances.
Strikers
Florent Sinama-Pongolle (Atletico Madrid)
All Atletico fans will be pleasantly surprised with the impact the Frenchman has made, and he will be very important if Los Colchoneros are to have a reasonable season across the domestic and European board. Forlan is already injured, but it seems Aguirre can rest easy if he wants to rest one of his front two in future, knowing a quality alternative in Sinama is on hand.
Espindola injured in RSL draw
Sylvinho Praises Dani Alves
Goalkeeper
Miguel Moya – (Real Mallorca)
Chiefly responsible for the islanders’ clean sheet in the Riazor, making a host of saves as Depor piled the pressure on. A few clubs showed some interest in the summer but never made a concrete move. If Moya keeps perfoming this way that could change very quickly.
Defenders
Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid)
Excellent in both attack and defence in Santander, showing bucket loads of energy and desire going forward, making the opposing left winger and left back think twice at every juncture.
Juanito (Real Betis)
At the heart of a defence that kept the heralded Sevilla forward line pretty quiet, and went so close to grabbing the vital goal, only for the post to deny the Beticos for the second time in the match.
Carles Puyol (Barcelona)
Commanding performance from the Barca icon who kept last week’s hat trick hero Mate Bilic quiet. Barca were at last excellent in Gijon, but Puyol’s form has been solid throughout.
Giourkas Seitaridis (Atletico Madrid)
Bounding up and down the right hand side all evening (he's in at left back here, where he can play at a push), the Greek caused Recre all kinds of problems, as well as coping well defensively.
Midfield
Maniche (Atletico Madrid)
Outstanding performance from the former Porto man, who was at his archetypal best in aiding the destruction of Recre. The classic box-to-box display, he was absolutely everywhere and netted with an excellent strike.
Xavi (Barcelona)
What a season it seems this guy is set to have. Off the back of a simply superb Euros, Xavi dictated every incision of the Gijon dissection with typical ease.
Ruben De La Red (Real Madrid)
Eye-catching display from a player who’s game is so easy on the eye. This weekend though, he showed a different side to his game in a defensive capacity, and slotted in seamlessly. He could be an important player with Sneijder, and now Gago and Guti all out of contention.
Wingers
Santi Cazorla (Villarreal)
Gets in the best eleven again with another key contribution from the international winger, who got Villarreal all the points in round two. Has and will continue to prove such an important figure for Los Submarino Amarillo this season, proving a crucial supplier of goals already this season with Nihat and Rossi injured.
Andres Iniesta (Barcelona)
Outstanding from the pint sized box of tricks. Scored one and set-up another as probably the Blaugrana’s best player on a night of some great individual performances.
Strikers
Florent Sinama-Pongolle (Atletico Madrid)
All Atletico fans will be pleasantly surprised with the impact the Frenchman has made, and he will be very important if Los Colchoneros are to have a reasonable season across the domestic and European board. Forlan is already injured, but it seems Aguirre can rest easy if he wants to rest one of his front two in future, knowing a quality alternative in Sinama is on hand.
Espindola injured in RSL draw
Sylvinho Praises Dani Alves
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Emery: No Risks With Villa
The Spanish hit-man has made the squad despite having a sprained ankle. Emery is likely to make a last minute decision as to whether he plays the striker during the game.
However, he admits that it is not worth risking his star man anymore than necessary.
“Villa is an important player but we cannot take major risks,” said the coach.
“I have full confidence in him but I will not take any gambles. If he feels comfortable then he may play.
“We have to make the best out of what we have. Injuries happen in football and we have to deal with them.”
The Euro 2008 winner sprained his ankle against Maritimo Funchal of Madeira in the UEFA Cup on Thursday night.
Valencia are currently second in La Liga following a win and a draw and they will be hoping for more points when Osasuna wisit the Mestalla.
Serioux answering Hyndman’s call
Valencia Want Milito To Replace Villa?
Villa Set To Sign New Contract
However, he admits that it is not worth risking his star man anymore than necessary.
“Villa is an important player but we cannot take major risks,” said the coach.
“I have full confidence in him but I will not take any gambles. If he feels comfortable then he may play.
“We have to make the best out of what we have. Injuries happen in football and we have to deal with them.”
The Euro 2008 winner sprained his ankle against Maritimo Funchal of Madeira in the UEFA Cup on Thursday night.
Valencia are currently second in La Liga following a win and a draw and they will be hoping for more points when Osasuna wisit the Mestalla.
Serioux answering Hyndman’s call
Valencia Want Milito To Replace Villa?
Villa Set To Sign New Contract
Guardiola's Need To Start Winning
The Blaugrana find themselves in unfamiliar territory at the bottom end of the Spanish Primera Division following a draw and a defeat from the opening two games of the campaign.
The coach is hoping for a change in fortunes and he is demanding improvements from his side when they clash with Sporting Gijon on Sunday and he is well aware that fate is in his own team's hands.
“We need to start winning now,” said the coach.
“I think we need to continue playing well and improve. We have to be better when going forwards and be more forceful in attack. We need to be calmer and dominate games by taking early leads.
“We have to be more adventurous when going for goal.”
Barcelona are desperate for points and they cannot afford to slip up against bottom of the table Gijon.
Any more negative results are likely to have the fans and board up in arms against Guardiola.
La Liga Preview: Sporting Gijón - Getafe
Huckerby comfortable with Earthquakes
Alves: Guardiola Motivates Us
The coach is hoping for a change in fortunes and he is demanding improvements from his side when they clash with Sporting Gijon on Sunday and he is well aware that fate is in his own team's hands.
“We need to start winning now,” said the coach.
“I think we need to continue playing well and improve. We have to be better when going forwards and be more forceful in attack. We need to be calmer and dominate games by taking early leads.
“We have to be more adventurous when going for goal.”
Barcelona are desperate for points and they cannot afford to slip up against bottom of the table Gijon.
Any more negative results are likely to have the fans and board up in arms against Guardiola.
La Liga Preview: Sporting Gijón - Getafe
Huckerby comfortable with Earthquakes
Alves: Guardiola Motivates Us
Saturday, September 20, 2008
La Liga Preview: Deportivo La Coruna - Mallorca
Two teams in hot water meet at the Riazor this weekend to display a typical night of Spanish football. With Mallorca flopping seriously in their last two games, things seem to be rough all over, as Deportivo continue to struggle in finding their rhythm. The determination of both sides has taken a severe dip recently, but a game like this is the perfect chance to clear up the nonsense and get back on track. Deportivo are out to impress their fans once again, yet Mallorca will gift no pleasure to the home side, saving what could end up becoming a serious embarrassment. What is certain is one thing, both teams are going for the win, and the battle for the three points is by no means going to be a tidy one. The hot atmosphere, angry fans, and very ambitious players will drive the tempo of this game up the roof, starting from the first minute right until the final whistle.
Deportivo's Woes
Last week's trouncing at the hands of Villarreal has sparked mixed feelings at the Galician camp. Taking the immediate pleasure of criticizing his players, Miguel Angel Lotina went public about his teams "lack of depth and aggressiveness", which has not gone too well with the Turkos. The Spanish press report of an internal rift between the players and their coach; time seems to have taken its toll on what has now become a very predictable team. Crashing at the hands of Norwegian minnows Brann in the UEFA Cup is just one more disappointment to add to the long list of frustration.
Lotina has been given some headaches in defence, failing to find a suitable replacement for his star defender, Fabricio Coloccini. After the board ignored Lotina's request of buying a top class defender, relations seem to have become extremely frosty between the coach and the management. Some fans have made their voice heard, demanding a change of coach, management, and even both.
The sky has been cloudy in Galicia these past couple of weeks, and it seems to be a long way before it rises once more, but a win this weekend is the best place to start.
Balearic Blues
If Lotina has been tossing in bed, the last month has been a living nightmare for Gregorio Manzano. After failing to lead his team to a win in over a month, the Italian has been shown no mercy by the press. With boulders on his shoulders, the pressure is on Manzano to inspire his deteriorating players. Manzano's control in the dressing room has been questioned recently, and many believe that the coach is not the leading figure behind the curtains.
Why Mallorca are failing is simple, they have not learned to cut their losses and move on. Last year's two most impressive performers, Ariel Ibgaza and Dani Guiza, have left big shoes to fill, but no player's feet seem big enough to step up and make that key difference that these two made last year. With that aside, the Balearic outfit seemed to have lost their fast, attractive pace and become a heavy, uninspired side.
What Mallorca need now is not a killer player or a star studded squad, Mallorca need a leader. Raul of Madrid, Puyol of Barca, Senna of Villarreal, the list goes on; Mallorca are left with a void, and unless a player can fill it (my pick is Moya), success is a prospect that Mallorca must accept is out of their reach.
A win is vital this time around, and the fans will settle for nothing less.
Form Guide
Deportivo
18/9/2008 Brann 2-0 (L) UEFA Cup
14/9/2008 Villarreal 1-0 (L) La Liga
31/8/2008 Real Madrid 2-1 (W) La Liga
28/8/2008 Hadjuk Split 0-2 (W) UEFA Cup
14/8/2008 Hadjuk Split 0-0 (D) UEFA Cup
Mallorca
14/9/2008 Osasuna 1-1 (D) La Liga
30/8/2008 Valencia 0-3 (L) La Liga
9/8/2008 West Bromwich 1-1 (D) Friendly
3/8/2008 Newcastle United 1-0 (W) Friendly
1/8/2008 Hannover 96 4-2 (W) Friendly
Team News
Deportivo
Lotina has no major setbacks and will shift his midfield around in order to add depth, creativity, and aggression. His players have been working on their end product, one two's, and counter attack. Lotina will tell his players to put on early pressure and take advantage of the Mallorca's shaky back four.
Possible Starting XI: (4-2-3-1) Aranzubia – Laure, Zé Castro, Lopo, Filipe – Sergio (c), De Guzmán – Juan Rodriguez, Valerón, Guardado – Riki.
RCD Mallorca
Manzano will look for a striker that he can depend on, Aduriz' recent form will give him the thumbs up in front of the disappointing Pierre Webo. The rest will seem to be a regular formation.
Possible Starting XI: (4-1-4-1): Moyá – Scaloni, Ramis, Nunes, Corrales – Santana – Varela, Martí, Keita, Arango – Aduriz
Players to Watch
Deportivo
Canadian midfielder Julian de Guzman has been in consistent and dominant form, winning the confidence of his coach and has become a fan favourite. His long range passes and creativity in the middle will look to give Santana some trouble. Gunning down Arango will be his key role, although expect him to charge forward at times. The bar is set high for de Guzman this weekend, expect a shining performance from this excellent midfielder.
Malllorca
After his sparkling debut last weekend, Aritz Aduriz will want to build on his talent and guide his team to a victory. Although Ze
Castro will give him no pleasure in attack, Aranzubia must keep his eyes open for long shots and through passes. A threat as always, Aduriz will drift to all corners of the pitch, even moving backwards to assist in the attacking build up.
Prediction
Since both Deportivo and Mallorca are going for the win, expect little preservation from anyone as the game promises to have open spaces and swift counter attacks. A repeat of the loss against Brann will cause an eruption of controversy in Galicia, a prospect that Lotina will have to avoid at all costs. Depor will put on the early pressure, but don't expect Mallorca to sit back and watch; three points is their objective too. Depor seem to have the upper hand, playing at their famous Riazor with their fans cheering them all the way. Taking advantage of open spaces is the key this time, the rest is for you to decide.
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Deportivo's Woes
Last week's trouncing at the hands of Villarreal has sparked mixed feelings at the Galician camp. Taking the immediate pleasure of criticizing his players, Miguel Angel Lotina went public about his teams "lack of depth and aggressiveness", which has not gone too well with the Turkos. The Spanish press report of an internal rift between the players and their coach; time seems to have taken its toll on what has now become a very predictable team. Crashing at the hands of Norwegian minnows Brann in the UEFA Cup is just one more disappointment to add to the long list of frustration.
Lotina has been given some headaches in defence, failing to find a suitable replacement for his star defender, Fabricio Coloccini. After the board ignored Lotina's request of buying a top class defender, relations seem to have become extremely frosty between the coach and the management. Some fans have made their voice heard, demanding a change of coach, management, and even both.
The sky has been cloudy in Galicia these past couple of weeks, and it seems to be a long way before it rises once more, but a win this weekend is the best place to start.
Balearic Blues
If Lotina has been tossing in bed, the last month has been a living nightmare for Gregorio Manzano. After failing to lead his team to a win in over a month, the Italian has been shown no mercy by the press. With boulders on his shoulders, the pressure is on Manzano to inspire his deteriorating players. Manzano's control in the dressing room has been questioned recently, and many believe that the coach is not the leading figure behind the curtains.
Why Mallorca are failing is simple, they have not learned to cut their losses and move on. Last year's two most impressive performers, Ariel Ibgaza and Dani Guiza, have left big shoes to fill, but no player's feet seem big enough to step up and make that key difference that these two made last year. With that aside, the Balearic outfit seemed to have lost their fast, attractive pace and become a heavy, uninspired side.
What Mallorca need now is not a killer player or a star studded squad, Mallorca need a leader. Raul of Madrid, Puyol of Barca, Senna of Villarreal, the list goes on; Mallorca are left with a void, and unless a player can fill it (my pick is Moya), success is a prospect that Mallorca must accept is out of their reach.
A win is vital this time around, and the fans will settle for nothing less.
Form Guide
Deportivo
18/9/2008 Brann 2-0 (L) UEFA Cup
14/9/2008 Villarreal 1-0 (L) La Liga
31/8/2008 Real Madrid 2-1 (W) La Liga
28/8/2008 Hadjuk Split 0-2 (W) UEFA Cup
14/8/2008 Hadjuk Split 0-0 (D) UEFA Cup
Mallorca
14/9/2008 Osasuna 1-1 (D) La Liga
30/8/2008 Valencia 0-3 (L) La Liga
9/8/2008 West Bromwich 1-1 (D) Friendly
3/8/2008 Newcastle United 1-0 (W) Friendly
1/8/2008 Hannover 96 4-2 (W) Friendly
Team News
Deportivo
Lotina has no major setbacks and will shift his midfield around in order to add depth, creativity, and aggression. His players have been working on their end product, one two's, and counter attack. Lotina will tell his players to put on early pressure and take advantage of the Mallorca's shaky back four.
Possible Starting XI: (4-2-3-1) Aranzubia – Laure, Zé Castro, Lopo, Filipe – Sergio (c), De Guzmán – Juan Rodriguez, Valerón, Guardado – Riki.
RCD Mallorca
Manzano will look for a striker that he can depend on, Aduriz' recent form will give him the thumbs up in front of the disappointing Pierre Webo. The rest will seem to be a regular formation.
Possible Starting XI: (4-1-4-1): Moyá – Scaloni, Ramis, Nunes, Corrales – Santana – Varela, Martí, Keita, Arango – Aduriz
Players to Watch
Deportivo
Canadian midfielder Julian de Guzman has been in consistent and dominant form, winning the confidence of his coach and has become a fan favourite. His long range passes and creativity in the middle will look to give Santana some trouble. Gunning down Arango will be his key role, although expect him to charge forward at times. The bar is set high for de Guzman this weekend, expect a shining performance from this excellent midfielder.
Malllorca
After his sparkling debut last weekend, Aritz Aduriz will want to build on his talent and guide his team to a victory. Although Ze
Castro will give him no pleasure in attack, Aranzubia must keep his eyes open for long shots and through passes. A threat as always, Aduriz will drift to all corners of the pitch, even moving backwards to assist in the attacking build up.
Prediction
Since both Deportivo and Mallorca are going for the win, expect little preservation from anyone as the game promises to have open spaces and swift counter attacks. A repeat of the loss against Brann will cause an eruption of controversy in Galicia, a prospect that Lotina will have to avoid at all costs. Depor will put on the early pressure, but don't expect Mallorca to sit back and watch; three points is their objective too. Depor seem to have the upper hand, playing at their famous Riazor with their fans cheering them all the way. Taking advantage of open spaces is the key this time, the rest is for you to decide.
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La Liga Preview: Real Betis - Sevilla
La Liga is warming up for the craziest exhibition of football passion Spain has to offer, with derby of Seville.
The Real El Derbi
From the outside looking in, La Liga’s most passionate match of the calendar – the real meeting of opposing identities – is seen unquestionably as the clash of the titans that is Real Madrid and Barcelona. We all know it isn’t a real derby, more of an international match in symbolic terms, but it means more than many of the ‘real’ derbies……apart from this one.
With Sevilla very much exuding the persona of the better end of the fun loving city, the Beticos revel in putting one over on their hated rivals as the working class club, or veritable paupers of the town. Of course, both splash the cash to similar levels these days, but recent histories could not be more contrasting.
These fixtures have got in the news for all the wrong reasons recently, marred by crown misbehaviour, violence, as well as bizarre logistical and technical problems, such as failing flood lights.
This season, the hosts have more than enough to be concerned with on the field, while Sevilla have begun their campaign relatively well after major changes in the summer
Divided Fortunes, Brewing Troubles
Real Betis are probably now unrivalled holders of the unwanted title of Spain’s worst run club.
Atletico Madrid were in the same ball park, but have finally got their act together. The in-fighting and politics at Valencia has ensured rank underachievement for so much of it’s history, while both Barca and Real have sporadically challenged for that title in recent years. But the Beticos are a terminal case, much to the amusement of uptown rivals Sevilla, who have enjoyed something of a renaissance in the last five years after time yo-yoing between La Liga and the Segunda.
Los Pepinos have not managed a league win since April, and coach Paco Chaparro knows all too well that his employers are renowned for whipping managers in and out of office no sooner than the ink is dry on the contract.
As per usual, the club has plenty of quality in its ranks, but forming a competitive team is proving a struggle. So far, a home defeat to Recre followed by a fortunate point at Getafe is likely to fill some of the beleaguered Betis faithful with a feeling of impending doom, such has been the unruly, heart-stopping nature of recent tumbles in form, ensuring the club fights off the threat of relegation on a regular basis.
The real problem for Betis is that Barcelona, Real Madrid and Villarreal follow this derby test, so it could be a long Autumn for Chaparro, which he will hope to see out.
Manuel Jimenez, on the other hand, has had a fairly solid start in results terms. The manner of the 4-3 home win over newly promoted Sporting Gijon will have undoubtedly raised concerns over the defence, though Mate Bilic’s hat-trick for the visitors had a large slice of fortune attached to it. Still, it was hardly convincing, but it will take time for a host of new faces at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan to settle.
It’s set to be a cracking encounter, not least because of some mounting pressure on Chaparro. Sevilla president Del Nido has already spoke of the motivation he wants to see in the players for the trip downtown, while Betis forward Sergio Garcia has stoked the flames by stating Los Blanquirrojos are not as strong as last season.
With any luck, it will be all about the football and the very unique passion that accompanies this fixture, rather than an exhibition of some of the darker aspects of the Spanish game.
FORM GUIDE
Betis
DREW 0-0 (A) Getafe (14 Sept – La Liga)
LOST 1-0 (H) Recreativo de Huelva (Sept 1 - La Liga)
LOST 3-0 (A) Almeria (Aug 23 Friendly)
WON 3-0 (A) Elche (Aug 16 - Friendly)
LOST 2-1 (A) Málaga (Aug 9 - Friendly)
Sevilla
WON 2-0 (H)Salzburg (18 Sept – UEFA Cup 1st round 1st leg)
WON 4-3 (H) Sporting Gijon (13 Sept – La Liga)
DREW 1-1 (A) Racing Santander (31 Aug - La Liga)
WON 2-0 (H) Malaga (23 Aug - Friendly)
WON 3-0 (A) Cadiz (16 Aug - Friendly)
TEAM NEWS
Betis
Paco Chaparro has apparently settled on a set-up for this weekend, while he certainly has plenty of options. Pavone should lead the line up front, supported by Garcia and Gonzalez on the flanks.A three man midfield will likely be anchored by the returning Aurelio, which could see Arzu deployed at centre-back in place of Melli.
La Liga Season Preview: Real Betis
La Liga Preview: Getafe - Real Betis
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The Real El Derbi
From the outside looking in, La Liga’s most passionate match of the calendar – the real meeting of opposing identities – is seen unquestionably as the clash of the titans that is Real Madrid and Barcelona. We all know it isn’t a real derby, more of an international match in symbolic terms, but it means more than many of the ‘real’ derbies……apart from this one.
With Sevilla very much exuding the persona of the better end of the fun loving city, the Beticos revel in putting one over on their hated rivals as the working class club, or veritable paupers of the town. Of course, both splash the cash to similar levels these days, but recent histories could not be more contrasting.
These fixtures have got in the news for all the wrong reasons recently, marred by crown misbehaviour, violence, as well as bizarre logistical and technical problems, such as failing flood lights.
This season, the hosts have more than enough to be concerned with on the field, while Sevilla have begun their campaign relatively well after major changes in the summer
Divided Fortunes, Brewing Troubles
Real Betis are probably now unrivalled holders of the unwanted title of Spain’s worst run club.
Atletico Madrid were in the same ball park, but have finally got their act together. The in-fighting and politics at Valencia has ensured rank underachievement for so much of it’s history, while both Barca and Real have sporadically challenged for that title in recent years. But the Beticos are a terminal case, much to the amusement of uptown rivals Sevilla, who have enjoyed something of a renaissance in the last five years after time yo-yoing between La Liga and the Segunda.
Los Pepinos have not managed a league win since April, and coach Paco Chaparro knows all too well that his employers are renowned for whipping managers in and out of office no sooner than the ink is dry on the contract.
As per usual, the club has plenty of quality in its ranks, but forming a competitive team is proving a struggle. So far, a home defeat to Recre followed by a fortunate point at Getafe is likely to fill some of the beleaguered Betis faithful with a feeling of impending doom, such has been the unruly, heart-stopping nature of recent tumbles in form, ensuring the club fights off the threat of relegation on a regular basis.
The real problem for Betis is that Barcelona, Real Madrid and Villarreal follow this derby test, so it could be a long Autumn for Chaparro, which he will hope to see out.
Manuel Jimenez, on the other hand, has had a fairly solid start in results terms. The manner of the 4-3 home win over newly promoted Sporting Gijon will have undoubtedly raised concerns over the defence, though Mate Bilic’s hat-trick for the visitors had a large slice of fortune attached to it. Still, it was hardly convincing, but it will take time for a host of new faces at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan to settle.
It’s set to be a cracking encounter, not least because of some mounting pressure on Chaparro. Sevilla president Del Nido has already spoke of the motivation he wants to see in the players for the trip downtown, while Betis forward Sergio Garcia has stoked the flames by stating Los Blanquirrojos are not as strong as last season.
With any luck, it will be all about the football and the very unique passion that accompanies this fixture, rather than an exhibition of some of the darker aspects of the Spanish game.
FORM GUIDE
Betis
DREW 0-0 (A) Getafe (14 Sept – La Liga)
LOST 1-0 (H) Recreativo de Huelva (Sept 1 - La Liga)
LOST 3-0 (A) Almeria (Aug 23 Friendly)
WON 3-0 (A) Elche (Aug 16 - Friendly)
LOST 2-1 (A) Málaga (Aug 9 - Friendly)
Sevilla
WON 2-0 (H)Salzburg (18 Sept – UEFA Cup 1st round 1st leg)
WON 4-3 (H) Sporting Gijon (13 Sept – La Liga)
DREW 1-1 (A) Racing Santander (31 Aug - La Liga)
WON 2-0 (H) Malaga (23 Aug - Friendly)
WON 3-0 (A) Cadiz (16 Aug - Friendly)
TEAM NEWS
Betis
Paco Chaparro has apparently settled on a set-up for this weekend, while he certainly has plenty of options. Pavone should lead the line up front, supported by Garcia and Gonzalez on the flanks.A three man midfield will likely be anchored by the returning Aurelio, which could see Arzu deployed at centre-back in place of Melli.
La Liga Season Preview: Real Betis
La Liga Preview: Getafe - Real Betis
Mathis makes return to Real Salt Lake
Inter To Use Maradona As Bait For Aguero - Report
Reports in Italy suggest that the Argentine legend will join the Nerazzurri as a member of the team’s coaching staff.
Salvatore Bagni, who is the intermediary between Moratti and Maradona, believes that El Pibe De Or is ready to sign for Inter as soon as possible.
This has lead to rife speculation that the 1986 World Cup winner will be used to convince Aguero to swap the Vicente Calderon for San Siro.
“There is a great feeling between Maradona and Moratti. The impact was excellent and Maradona is happy with what the Inter chief said about him,” Bagni told La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
“Diego is currently in Buenos Aires and he will return to Italy in November but if Inter needed him now, he would fly over straight away.”
Inter are keen on the Atletico hit-man and they tried to swoop for him in the summer when Nerazzurri director Marco Branca bid €25m plus Dejan Stankovic but the La Liga side was having none of it.
The Colchoneros have put a €55m release clause in ‘Kun’s’ contract which expires in 2012.
However, Inter’s plan is to get Maradona to convince his son-in-law to part-company with Atletico should Moratti hire him.
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Salvatore Bagni, who is the intermediary between Moratti and Maradona, believes that El Pibe De Or is ready to sign for Inter as soon as possible.
This has lead to rife speculation that the 1986 World Cup winner will be used to convince Aguero to swap the Vicente Calderon for San Siro.
“There is a great feeling between Maradona and Moratti. The impact was excellent and Maradona is happy with what the Inter chief said about him,” Bagni told La Gazzetta Dello Sport.
“Diego is currently in Buenos Aires and he will return to Italy in November but if Inter needed him now, he would fly over straight away.”
Inter are keen on the Atletico hit-man and they tried to swoop for him in the summer when Nerazzurri director Marco Branca bid €25m plus Dejan Stankovic but the La Liga side was having none of it.
The Colchoneros have put a €55m release clause in ‘Kun’s’ contract which expires in 2012.
However, Inter’s plan is to get Maradona to convince his son-in-law to part-company with Atletico should Moratti hire him.
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Messi Won’t Rise To Maradona Bait
Agüero: I Was Inspired
Thursday, September 18, 2008
I Would Never Have Moved To Barcelona - Trezeguet
The Frenchman came close to leaving the Stadio Olimpico in Turin this summer but the lure of Catalonian football and the Camp Nou didn't really appeal to him.
Barcelona tried time and again and reports in Italy suggested they even had a bid turned down for the hit-man. Juve stated he was not for sale at any price but there was no need as Trezeguet has revealed he was never going to leave.
"Guardiola wanted me to be a part of his Barcelona side but I was very clear with him because I never felt the need to change Juve for the Blaugrana," Trezeguet told Sky Sport Italia.
The striker then spoke about his role with the Old Lady and he admits he is slowly working his way back to form following problems with his tendons.
"The problem is affecting me but I need to be more careful, especially in training," added the striker.
The hit-man played against Zenit St Petersburg in the Champions League and almost scored before he was substituted for Amauri after he complained of pain in his right knee.
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Barcelona tried time and again and reports in Italy suggested they even had a bid turned down for the hit-man. Juve stated he was not for sale at any price but there was no need as Trezeguet has revealed he was never going to leave.
"Guardiola wanted me to be a part of his Barcelona side but I was very clear with him because I never felt the need to change Juve for the Blaugrana," Trezeguet told Sky Sport Italia.
The striker then spoke about his role with the Old Lady and he admits he is slowly working his way back to form following problems with his tendons.
"The problem is affecting me but I need to be more careful, especially in training," added the striker.
The hit-man played against Zenit St Petersburg in the Champions League and almost scored before he was substituted for Amauri after he complained of pain in his right knee.
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Sinama: Agüero Is One Of The Best
When Florent Sinama Pongolle joined Atlético Madrid this summer from Recreativo Huelva he must have known that with Diego Forlán and Sergio Agüero already at the club, playing time would be limited. However, in the minutes that he has been granted by Javier Aguirre so far this season the Frenchman has impressed, and with Forlán now out for around a month it looks as though he might be given a starting berth against his former side this weekend.
Speaking today about the upcoming match Pongolle had nothing but praise for his former club, saying, " I was there two years and they are a very generous, strong side that always puts in maximum effort. They will play at 200%. Therefore, with the elation of the victory on Tuesday, it is going to be another difficult match."
Learning From The Best
Despite Pongolle's praise though, it is the Rojiblancos who should come into this match with all the confidence after a convincing 3-0 victory over PSV in the Champions League in the week. The architect of that win was undoubtedly Sergio Agüero and the French striker revealed that even playing alongside the Argentine is making him a better player.
" Playing alongside a footballer like Kun always make you better yourself," he opined, " I know that I arrived here to fight for a place with two very good forwards in Forlán and Agüero and I have to play to their level and work very hard every day."
The former Recre player also said that he regards Agüero as one of the best strikers in the world right now, saying, "He has begun the season well and I expect him to continue because in football whilst things can change through decisions, the quality never changes. In football there are some tough decisions but he is one of the best forwards in the world."
Recre Return
Following the injury to Diego Forlán on Wednesday it seems as though Pongolle will be given a starting place for the match against Recreativo at the weekend, and possibly for the next month whilst the Uruguayan recovers. The striker is not taking anything for granted though, he said, " There are possibilities to play for not only me but also for Luis García. It is a decision of the coach and I will just continue to work hard so the team have confidence in me."
If Pongolle does play against Recreativo it will no doubt be an emotional moment after he spent two seasons at the club, and he admits that he does not know if he will celebrate if he scores.
"They are the team who opened their arms to me and gave me confidence, from the fans and the people of the club to players. Whether or not I celebrate depends on the moment," he concluded.
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Speaking today about the upcoming match Pongolle had nothing but praise for his former club, saying, " I was there two years and they are a very generous, strong side that always puts in maximum effort. They will play at 200%. Therefore, with the elation of the victory on Tuesday, it is going to be another difficult match."
Learning From The Best
Despite Pongolle's praise though, it is the Rojiblancos who should come into this match with all the confidence after a convincing 3-0 victory over PSV in the Champions League in the week. The architect of that win was undoubtedly Sergio Agüero and the French striker revealed that even playing alongside the Argentine is making him a better player.
" Playing alongside a footballer like Kun always make you better yourself," he opined, " I know that I arrived here to fight for a place with two very good forwards in Forlán and Agüero and I have to play to their level and work very hard every day."
The former Recre player also said that he regards Agüero as one of the best strikers in the world right now, saying, "He has begun the season well and I expect him to continue because in football whilst things can change through decisions, the quality never changes. In football there are some tough decisions but he is one of the best forwards in the world."
Recre Return
Following the injury to Diego Forlán on Wednesday it seems as though Pongolle will be given a starting place for the match against Recreativo at the weekend, and possibly for the next month whilst the Uruguayan recovers. The striker is not taking anything for granted though, he said, " There are possibilities to play for not only me but also for Luis García. It is a decision of the coach and I will just continue to work hard so the team have confidence in me."
If Pongolle does play against Recreativo it will no doubt be an emotional moment after he spent two seasons at the club, and he admits that he does not know if he will celebrate if he scores.
"They are the team who opened their arms to me and gave me confidence, from the fans and the people of the club to players. Whether or not I celebrate depends on the moment," he concluded.
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Mourinho Vows To Take Calcio Back To The Top
Mourinho said in The Sun: “At the moment there’s no doubt the most powerful league in Europe is the Premier League – but I will try to contribute for my new country for my new league to become top.”
Few could dispute the Special One's claim given the recent dominance of English clubs on the European stage. Three of last season's Champions League semi-finalists hailed from the Premier League, with Manchester United eventually defeating Chelsea to take the title.
Meanwhile, Serie A is currently attempting to work its way out of a slump caused by the Calciopoli scandals of 2006. Although the likes of AC Milan - CL champions in 2007 - have performed well on the continental front, domestic front-runners Inter and Roma have failed to make much of an impact over the past few seasons.
Many still believe the quality of football in Italy is superior to that in England, and that may be true; but the fact remains that calcio's once-glamorous image has been gravely tarnished by off-field dramas.
Combined with ongoing concerns over crowd violence and the Premier League's financial boom, Serie A's slip down the pecking order was inevitable in Mourinho's eyes.
Change
“I think for a few years the Italian clubs were the destiny of the best players in Europe and for different reasons things change,” the former Chelsea manager continued.
“Italian football lost players, lost quality – I don't say lost passion because the passion is in the Latin hearts – but lost a little bit of trust.
“There was a bit of violence, Juventus in the second division, other teams losing points and this kind of stuff – it was not good for their credibility.
“They lost ground to the Premier League, which was coming up and up and up and up with a great financial power.
“There was also very positive influence from so many top players from other countries in the Premier League, mixed with the passion of the English players, mixed with the passion and the tradition of English football. I think that was like a turning point.”
Top Three
Hence, over the past two seasons or so the title of 'world's best league' has been a two-horse race between the Premier League and Spain's La Liga.
Mourinho added: “The Spanish league was always and will always be a very technical one more than a tactical one, with the beauty of the game always present and always with two giants of world football – Barcelona and Real Madrid – always in the top of the attention.”
England, Italy and Spain are the traditional components which make Europe's top-tier triumvirate, due to a combination of monetary muscle and unique stylistic traits.
And Mourinho believes that, no matter which boasts the top spot, these three leagues belong to an unbreachable bracket at the very summit of domestic football.
“We have three top leagues – the English one, Calcio Serie A in Italy and La Liga in Spain,” he said.
“For different reasons, but especially because of the financial point of view, these are the three best leagues and overall this is where everyone wants to be. That’s the reality.”
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Few could dispute the Special One's claim given the recent dominance of English clubs on the European stage. Three of last season's Champions League semi-finalists hailed from the Premier League, with Manchester United eventually defeating Chelsea to take the title.
Meanwhile, Serie A is currently attempting to work its way out of a slump caused by the Calciopoli scandals of 2006. Although the likes of AC Milan - CL champions in 2007 - have performed well on the continental front, domestic front-runners Inter and Roma have failed to make much of an impact over the past few seasons.
Many still believe the quality of football in Italy is superior to that in England, and that may be true; but the fact remains that calcio's once-glamorous image has been gravely tarnished by off-field dramas.
Combined with ongoing concerns over crowd violence and the Premier League's financial boom, Serie A's slip down the pecking order was inevitable in Mourinho's eyes.
Change
“I think for a few years the Italian clubs were the destiny of the best players in Europe and for different reasons things change,” the former Chelsea manager continued.
“Italian football lost players, lost quality – I don't say lost passion because the passion is in the Latin hearts – but lost a little bit of trust.
“There was a bit of violence, Juventus in the second division, other teams losing points and this kind of stuff – it was not good for their credibility.
“They lost ground to the Premier League, which was coming up and up and up and up with a great financial power.
“There was also very positive influence from so many top players from other countries in the Premier League, mixed with the passion of the English players, mixed with the passion and the tradition of English football. I think that was like a turning point.”
Top Three
Hence, over the past two seasons or so the title of 'world's best league' has been a two-horse race between the Premier League and Spain's La Liga.
Mourinho added: “The Spanish league was always and will always be a very technical one more than a tactical one, with the beauty of the game always present and always with two giants of world football – Barcelona and Real Madrid – always in the top of the attention.”
England, Italy and Spain are the traditional components which make Europe's top-tier triumvirate, due to a combination of monetary muscle and unique stylistic traits.
And Mourinho believes that, no matter which boasts the top spot, these three leagues belong to an unbreachable bracket at the very summit of domestic football.
“We have three top leagues – the English one, Calcio Serie A in Italy and La Liga in Spain,” he said.
“For different reasons, but especially because of the financial point of view, these are the three best leagues and overall this is where everyone wants to be. That’s the reality.”
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Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Player Ratings: PSV Eindhoven 0-3 Atletico Madrid
PSV Eindhoven
Isaksson - 5.5
No chance for the opener, but might have done better on Aguero's second, but lacked assurance and command of of the area.
Salcido - 6.5
Made the fewest mistakes among the back four. showed endeavour and some nice touches in attack.
Marcellis - 5
Made too many mistakes and showed poor judgement at times. Should have had a penalty awarded against him, which could have made it four and a thrashing for PSV.
Pieters - 5
Like Marcellus, gave Atletico's lethal forwards far too much space.
Brechet - 4
A night to forget for the Frenchman, who nearly ensured his team were a goal down in the first minute. Turned easily for Aguero's second. Looked vulnerable throughout.
Mendez - 6
Showed some nice touches here and there but, given how influential he is for PSV, needed to get on the ball more.
Simmons - 5
His screening role served little purpose, with far too much space for the Atletico midfield and forwards.
Culina - 5
Like Simmons, largely ineffectual and subbed off at halftime as PSV attempted an unlikely comeback in the second period.
Afellay - 7
Busy all night and showed his quality with great pace, trickery and a stinging shot. Questionable decision making at times, but had the weight of an average PSV on his shoulders.
Amrabat - 7
Probably PSV's best player on the night, he gave Perea problems down the left and looks a good addition to the Phillips Stadion.
Koevermans - 6
Tried his best to lead the line, but looked one-dimensional and missed a couple of good chances.
Subs
Bakkal - 5.5
Showed more than Culina, but failed to make much impact
Lazovic - 6
Immediately gave PSV more presence up front and should have scored one of the chances that fell to him.
Franciso - 5
Not much of an impact when he came on.
Atletico Madrid
Leo Franco - 7
Made some good saves from PSV's long rangers and coming out to close out one-on-ones. Looked largely assured on crosses and high balls too, as he continues in European matches while sitting out the domestic scene for Gregory Coupet.
Perea - 6
Sound enough, and had to work hard to contain Amrabat.
Ufaljusi - 7
Solid as always though with not an awful lot to do, which perhaps contributed to the occasional loss in concentration.
Heitinga - 7
The former Ajax man was probably expecting a rougher night from the PSV fans, but had an easy time of it and was rarely called upon.
Lopez - 6.5
Came in at left back and was worked by Afellay's pace and direct running, but coped reasonably well.
Luis Garcia - 8
Very creative, great link up play and incisive passing around the area, he looked full of confidence.
Maniche - 7.5
Helped dominate the PSV midfield and as usual needed no invitation to get forward. Took his goal well and was fouled in the area before the opener.
Assuncao - 7
Very solid and industrious in the the holding role.
Simao - 7
Gave Atletico plenty of width and quality service.
Aguero - 9
Outstanding performance by Aguero, who oozed quality with every touch, putting PSV to the sword and dicing the defence with ease.
Forlan - 6
Made some useful runs, but didn't see much of the ball and was overshadowed by Aguero. Forced off after half an hour due to injury.
Subs
Sinama-Pongolle - 7.5
Did very well replacing Forlan, showing plenty of pace, intelligence and ability to make it a grim night for PSV.
Raul Garcia - 6
Did fine when it was very comfortable for the visitors, and he should have been given a penalty after a poor challenge by Marcellis.
Banega - 6
Came on to help close out the contest in the last 25 minutes, but by then it was over.
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Isaksson - 5.5
No chance for the opener, but might have done better on Aguero's second, but lacked assurance and command of of the area.
Salcido - 6.5
Made the fewest mistakes among the back four. showed endeavour and some nice touches in attack.
Marcellis - 5
Made too many mistakes and showed poor judgement at times. Should have had a penalty awarded against him, which could have made it four and a thrashing for PSV.
Pieters - 5
Like Marcellus, gave Atletico's lethal forwards far too much space.
Brechet - 4
A night to forget for the Frenchman, who nearly ensured his team were a goal down in the first minute. Turned easily for Aguero's second. Looked vulnerable throughout.
Mendez - 6
Showed some nice touches here and there but, given how influential he is for PSV, needed to get on the ball more.
Simmons - 5
His screening role served little purpose, with far too much space for the Atletico midfield and forwards.
Culina - 5
Like Simmons, largely ineffectual and subbed off at halftime as PSV attempted an unlikely comeback in the second period.
Afellay - 7
Busy all night and showed his quality with great pace, trickery and a stinging shot. Questionable decision making at times, but had the weight of an average PSV on his shoulders.
Amrabat - 7
Probably PSV's best player on the night, he gave Perea problems down the left and looks a good addition to the Phillips Stadion.
Koevermans - 6
Tried his best to lead the line, but looked one-dimensional and missed a couple of good chances.
Subs
Bakkal - 5.5
Showed more than Culina, but failed to make much impact
Lazovic - 6
Immediately gave PSV more presence up front and should have scored one of the chances that fell to him.
Franciso - 5
Not much of an impact when he came on.
Atletico Madrid
Leo Franco - 7
Made some good saves from PSV's long rangers and coming out to close out one-on-ones. Looked largely assured on crosses and high balls too, as he continues in European matches while sitting out the domestic scene for Gregory Coupet.
Perea - 6
Sound enough, and had to work hard to contain Amrabat.
Ufaljusi - 7
Solid as always though with not an awful lot to do, which perhaps contributed to the occasional loss in concentration.
Heitinga - 7
The former Ajax man was probably expecting a rougher night from the PSV fans, but had an easy time of it and was rarely called upon.
Lopez - 6.5
Came in at left back and was worked by Afellay's pace and direct running, but coped reasonably well.
Luis Garcia - 8
Very creative, great link up play and incisive passing around the area, he looked full of confidence.
Maniche - 7.5
Helped dominate the PSV midfield and as usual needed no invitation to get forward. Took his goal well and was fouled in the area before the opener.
Assuncao - 7
Very solid and industrious in the the holding role.
Simao - 7
Gave Atletico plenty of width and quality service.
Aguero - 9
Outstanding performance by Aguero, who oozed quality with every touch, putting PSV to the sword and dicing the defence with ease.
Forlan - 6
Made some useful runs, but didn't see much of the ball and was overshadowed by Aguero. Forced off after half an hour due to injury.
Subs
Sinama-Pongolle - 7.5
Did very well replacing Forlan, showing plenty of pace, intelligence and ability to make it a grim night for PSV.
Raul Garcia - 6
Did fine when it was very comfortable for the visitors, and he should have been given a penalty after a poor challenge by Marcellis.
Banega - 6
Came on to help close out the contest in the last 25 minutes, but by then it was over.
Weary Revs struggle to keep pace
Agüero: I Was Inspired
Player Ratings: Atlético 4-0 Schalke
Versatile Harrington key to K.C. hopes
Agüero: I Was Inspired
After helping guide Atlético Madrid to a brilliant 3-0 victory over PSV Eindhoven in their opening Champions League match, Sergio Agüero acknowledged that he was in inspired form.
The diminutive Argentine grabbed both the first and the second goals in the Philips Stadion and he admits that he was on top of his game, “I was stepped on in the game against Valladolid but tonight I was feeling amazing. We are very happy with the victory and we played very well.”
Agüero only played the second half at the weekend after returning from international duty but even in the short space of time he had he managed to get himself on the score sheet. Against PSV he was yet again the standout player of the Atlético Madrid side although he preferred to talk about the team’s performance rather than his own.
“We intend to continue with this great form,” he said, “ We were feeling very confident during this game and thanks to that we have been rewarded.”
For PSV it was a hugely disappointing result at home and they must now pick themselves up to face Liverpool at Anfield in two weeks time. Atlético on the other hand will play host to Marseille in Madrid as they look to make it six points from their opening two games.
Agent Rubbishes Forlan To Spurs Rumours
La Liga Preview: Valladolid – Atlético Madrid
Rivals bring out best in Chivas
Ekpo draws pride from Olympic success
The diminutive Argentine grabbed both the first and the second goals in the Philips Stadion and he admits that he was on top of his game, “I was stepped on in the game against Valladolid but tonight I was feeling amazing. We are very happy with the victory and we played very well.”
Agüero only played the second half at the weekend after returning from international duty but even in the short space of time he had he managed to get himself on the score sheet. Against PSV he was yet again the standout player of the Atlético Madrid side although he preferred to talk about the team’s performance rather than his own.
“We intend to continue with this great form,” he said, “ We were feeling very confident during this game and thanks to that we have been rewarded.”
For PSV it was a hugely disappointing result at home and they must now pick themselves up to face Liverpool at Anfield in two weeks time. Atlético on the other hand will play host to Marseille in Madrid as they look to make it six points from their opening two games.
Agent Rubbishes Forlan To Spurs Rumours
La Liga Preview: Valladolid – Atlético Madrid
Rivals bring out best in Chivas
Ekpo draws pride from Olympic success
Player Ratings: Barcelona 3-1 Sporting
BARCELONA
Valdés: 6: Cannot be blamed for the goal as it was clearly a defenders' ball, but had little to do apart from that given Sporting's inability to test him.
Alves: 6.5: Another performance that will no doubt be put down to him adapting to his new surroundings and new system at the club.
Puyol: 7: Called in to play in an unfamiliar position and the Catalan club's captain did what was asked of him patrolling down the left.
Piqué: 8.5: A rock at the back who will only grow stronger. Used his size and strength to good effect and it is easy to see why Barça wanted him back.
Márquez: 7.5: Scored the goal but had a quiet game aprt from that as he maintained the calm at the back and was always available for a pass.
Keita: 7.5: Broke up the play of the Portuguese visitors and pushed forward when he could, but did not stand out.
Xavi: 8.5: An habitually confident display that saw him rarely lose possession or give a stray pass and he capped his performance with a goal
Iniesta: 8: Lively throughout, but was unable to finish a good chance in the second period or truly open up the Sporting defence on various occasions.
Messi: 8.5: The fact that every time the Argentinian touched the ball he took players on and lifted the crowd and the team made him stand out.
Henry: 9: Showed what he could do if he was played through the middle more often and also worked very hard for the team when tracking back.
Eto'o: 7.5: His penalty and the applause were just reward for a very hard-working display from the Cameroonian striker who is not having much luck up front.
Three Forwards On Barcelona Shortlist - Report
Van Der Vaart Wanted Barça
Ekpo, Nigeria win silver in Beijing
Valdés: 6: Cannot be blamed for the goal as it was clearly a defenders' ball, but had little to do apart from that given Sporting's inability to test him.
Alves: 6.5: Another performance that will no doubt be put down to him adapting to his new surroundings and new system at the club.
Puyol: 7: Called in to play in an unfamiliar position and the Catalan club's captain did what was asked of him patrolling down the left.
Piqué: 8.5: A rock at the back who will only grow stronger. Used his size and strength to good effect and it is easy to see why Barça wanted him back.
Márquez: 7.5: Scored the goal but had a quiet game aprt from that as he maintained the calm at the back and was always available for a pass.
Keita: 7.5: Broke up the play of the Portuguese visitors and pushed forward when he could, but did not stand out.
Xavi: 8.5: An habitually confident display that saw him rarely lose possession or give a stray pass and he capped his performance with a goal
Iniesta: 8: Lively throughout, but was unable to finish a good chance in the second period or truly open up the Sporting defence on various occasions.
Messi: 8.5: The fact that every time the Argentinian touched the ball he took players on and lifted the crowd and the team made him stand out.
Henry: 9: Showed what he could do if he was played through the middle more often and also worked very hard for the team when tracking back.
Eto'o: 7.5: His penalty and the applause were just reward for a very hard-working display from the Cameroonian striker who is not having much luck up front.
Three Forwards On Barcelona Shortlist - Report
Van Der Vaart Wanted Barça
Ekpo, Nigeria win silver in Beijing
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Goal.com Poll: Which Country For The CL?
It's probably too early to tell which team is in with the best chance of winning the Champions League, but one could make an educated guess as to which country and league the eventual victors will represent.
Of course, after supplying no fewer than three quarter-finalists last season, England is the favourite. With the multi-billionaire Premier League sending its 'big four' once again this season, few would bet against the English.
Yet if one takes a longer view then they see that Italy have been represented in the final no fewer than 25 times over the course of the tournament's history. Calcio may be said to be on the downswing at the moment, but in fact since 2003 there have been four occurrences of a Serie A team reaching the final, and on two of those AC Milan won the whole thing.
Spain produced absolutely no winners between 1966 and 1992, but Real Madrid and Barcelona have both won the title this century, and thus the Iberian country cannot be discounted.
Nor can its neighbour, Portugal. Porto, after all, were the victors in 2004 against Monaco, who in turn were the first Frence finalists since the heady days of Marseille's 1993 victory.
Other than that, only Germany and the Netherlands have won the title since 1991, when a Yugoslav team did so - Red Star Belgrade.
Clearly, then, it's not all about England. But what do you think? Click here to vote and we'll announce the results on Monday... after the Manchester City versus Chelsea game, of course!
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Poll Results: Readers Point Podolski To Roma
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Of course, after supplying no fewer than three quarter-finalists last season, England is the favourite. With the multi-billionaire Premier League sending its 'big four' once again this season, few would bet against the English.
Yet if one takes a longer view then they see that Italy have been represented in the final no fewer than 25 times over the course of the tournament's history. Calcio may be said to be on the downswing at the moment, but in fact since 2003 there have been four occurrences of a Serie A team reaching the final, and on two of those AC Milan won the whole thing.
Spain produced absolutely no winners between 1966 and 1992, but Real Madrid and Barcelona have both won the title this century, and thus the Iberian country cannot be discounted.
Nor can its neighbour, Portugal. Porto, after all, were the victors in 2004 against Monaco, who in turn were the first Frence finalists since the heady days of Marseille's 1993 victory.
Other than that, only Germany and the Netherlands have won the title since 1991, when a Yugoslav team did so - Red Star Belgrade.
Clearly, then, it's not all about England. But what do you think? Click here to vote and we'll announce the results on Monday... after the Manchester City versus Chelsea game, of course!
Schelotto continues torrid play in win over Revs
Poll Results: Readers Point Podolski To Roma
Crew pad MLS lead with win over Revs
Paper Talk: Why Cristiano Ronaldo Really Is A Slave
The sporting rich list makes for curious reading. With all due respect, a vast majority of people worldwide reading the name Phil Mickelson would think it's a typo. But no, Mickelson - not Nickelson, or Nicholson, for that matter - is a 38-year-old American golfer, and renowned as the second best in the world. Avram Grant finished second in the Champions League, Premier League and Carling Cup in charge of Chelsea last season and got fired, Mickelson is second in the world and earned a staggering $62.3 million between June 2007 and 2008. Fair? Clearly, there's no such thing as a fair way on the fairway in the fast life of a golfer.
Lefty's hefty salary puts him at number two on the rich list of the sporting world and, if the second best golfer is the second highest earner, there are no prizes for guessing who holds the top spot. Arguably the greatest golfer of all time - and he certainly will be by the time he retires - Tiger Woods has for successive years been named the highest earning athlete in the world. The 32-year-old is making over twice as much as Mickelson - $127.9m - and looks set to become the first ever athlete to make over a billion dollars in earnings by 2010.
Role Of The Sponsors
Golf's monopoly on the top spots ends at second, as the 'global game' squeezes its way into the top three - and who other than David Beckham could come to soccer's rescue? Beckham cashed in $48.2m last year - far and away more than any other player - but contrary to popular belief, very little of that money is part of his basic contract. Noticeably past his prime as a player, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star earns approximately $5.3m-a-year from his contract with Los Angeles Galaxy. That may make him the highest earner in Major League Soccer, but there are many in Europe earning double that with their clubs.
Becks gets the majority of his money from Pepsi, Adidas, Police sunglasses, Sharpie permanent markers and whatever else he can get his hands on - and why not? He has even been able to ditch a big-money deal with Gillette and afford the luxury of some designer stubble and tell Brylcreem where to go when he shaved his head way back when.
Speaking of sponsors, there is no shortage of money in Formula One racing, no doubt due to the logos plastered all over each car like a collage gone horribly wrong. Lewis Hamilton's rise to stardom over the past 18 months has seen the money roll in at $27.6m per year, yet he's not quite in the same league as Kimi Räikkönen, with the emerging Finn hot on Beckham's trail with his cool return of $46m, though it could rise as high as $51m depending on his success rate. Fernando Alonso had been earning even more, but abandoned a lucrative contract with McLaren, switching back to Renault and having to settle for $35m, though that figure could rise back up to around $45m. To put matters in perspective, the invincible Michael Schumacher earned as much as both Alonso and Räikkönen put together when in his prime and the sporting world's highest earner, having since retired in 2006.
Thus when we turn our attention back to the golf course we see where the money really comes from. It is estimated that approximately $105m of Tiger Woods' overall earnings came from sponsorship deals. Mickelson, too, earns five times as much from his sponsors than he does on the golf course, by virtue of his every item of clothing being branded by the likes of accounting firm KPMG, Barclays bank and Rolex. We can say he chose his sponsors wisely - but who knew golfers were so marketable? After all, how many people are really watching when compared with other major sports? More than we thought, it seems - or maybe it's that golf viewers remain of the upper class and are in such a high financial bracket that advertisers go the extra monetary mile to attract their attention.
Contracts
But what about contracts? Surely they're the real measure of the athlete? To that end, great interest surrounds who has the biggest contract, or in other words, whose talent is worth the most money. The results are surprising: Beckham and Mickelson are among the lowest earners in the entire 'rich list' of top athletes, yet sponsors shoot them all the way up to third and second respectively. Baseball star Alex Rodriguez has far and away the largest contract in professional sport, earning an unbelievable $29m per year from the New York Yankees.
Behind him is Woods, followed by other top stars in individual sports. Take boxing: 'Pretty Boy' Floyd Mayweather gave Ricky Hatton the runaround on his way to earning $20m in December, remaining unbeaten and picking up another $20.25m in sponsors. Publicity stunts such as his infamous parading around in a Manchester United shirt to anger Manchester City fan Hatton have done wonders for the undefeated phenom's image worldwide, though his earnings may well have now peaked, as he officially announced his retirement in June this year.
Then there is Roger Federer - very much the Tiger Woods of tennis - who isn't far off the pace either. Total earnings of $35m make the Swiss machine far and away the highest earner on the court, despite his drop in earnings due to losing top spot in the world rankings to Rafael Nadal this year. Maria Sharapova, with $21.75m, is the only woman to make the list, though young golfer Michelle Wie may soon have something to say about that. Sharapova's winnings are the lowest on the entire list, but she earns almost 20 times as much through sponsors, showing the potential marketability of women in the sporting world.
The Rich List
Rank
Athlete (Sport)
Salary
Sponsors
Total
01
Tiger Woods (Golf)
$22.9m
$105m
$127.9m
02
Phil Mickelson (Golf)
$9.3m
$53m
$62.3m
03
David Beckham (Soccer)
$5.3m
$42.9
$48.2m
04
Kimi Räikkönen (Formula One)
n/a
n/a
$46m
05
LeBron James (Basketball)
$12.5m
$28m
$40.5m
06
Floyd Mayweather (Boxing)
$20m
$20.25m
$40.25m
07
Lionel Messi (Soccer)
$12.5m
$23.3m
$35.8m
08
Kobe Bryant (Basketball)
$19.5m
$16m
$35.5m
09
Roger Federer (Tennis)
$10.1m
$25m
$35.1m
10
Fernando Alonso (Formula One)
n/a
n/a
$35m
11
Alex Rodriguez (Baseball)
$29m
$6m
$35m
12
Shaquille O'Neal (Basketball)
$20m
$15m
$35m
13
Ronaldinho (Soccer)
$7.5m
$27.5m
$35m
14
Valentino Rossi (Moto GP)
$6m
$28m
$34m
15
Kevin Garnett (Basketball)
$22m
$9m
$31m
16
Peyton Manning (Football)
$17.5m
$13m
$30.5m
17
Cristiano Ronaldo (Soccer)
$11.4m
$18.9m
$30.3m
18
Derek Jeter (Baseball)
$22m
$8m
$30m
19
Ichiro Suzuki (Baseball)
$17m
$10.6m
$27.6m
20
Lewis Hamilton (Formula One)
n/a
n/a
$27.6m
21
Thierry Henry (Soccer)
$11.4m
$14.7m
$26.1m
22
Maria Sharapova (Tennis)
$1.9m
$18.85m
$21.75m
23
John Terry (Soccer)
$12.1m
$9.5m
$21.6m
24
Michael Ballack (Soccer)
$11.6m
$9.9m
$21.5m
25
Kaka (Soccer)
$13.4m
$6.7m
$20.1m
Not all top earners are included; many athletes - mostly basketballers - earning between $20-30m have been omitted so that the list did not get too long. Also note that no salaries or winnings figures are 100% accurate as they ultimately remain confidential.
Land Of The Free (And Rich)
The $30 million and above club is dominated almost entirely by American sports - basketball by far the richest, then baseball and to a lesser extent, football - it's only from then on that soccer's familiar faces enter the fray. Beckham aside, Ronaldinho also cracks Team America's stranglehold on the financial world of sport. Despite taking a pay cut to join Milan, the Gaucho is still thought to earn almost $35m annually, of which at least $27.5m comes through sponsors. The bucktoothed wonder may have temporarily lost his smile, form and fitness, but the money keeps rolling on in regardless by virtue of those years that he was quite simply playing like one of the greatest of all time.
His former Barcelona team-mate, Lionel Messi, is another who has hit the big time. Very much Ronaldinho's successor for the Blaugrana, the unstoppable Argentine's humble nature, garden gnome facial expression and two-dollar haircut might fool you into believing he didn't smash his way past $30m last year, but apparently, he did.
Naturally, we could only go so far without mentioning the undisputed centre of attention in the beautiful game, the most maligned of the moment, in Cristiano Ronaldo. C-Ron earned just over $30m last year, and Uncle Alex will no doubt be lining some Portuguese pockets with a little extra after the 23-year-old chose to stay at Old Trafford this summer, turning down his dream move to Real Madrid following a confidential heart-to-heart with the wily old Scot in July. In due time he is sure to soar all the way up this list, but for now, he surprisingly finds himself in a comparitively modest position on the rich list. Maybe Sepp Blatter was right all along, the multi-millionaire must really be a slave after all.
But let's forget the Messi and Ronaldo hype for a minute: what about the man who was voted as and officially remains World and European Player of the Year? Never fear, Milanello, as Kaka is in fact in possession of the most lucrative contract, worth almost $13.5m per year.
Ignoring the fact that A-Rod earns over twice as much in basic wage alone, let's remain focused on the positives: Kaka edges Lionel Messi in the contract stakes, despite his club being notoriously short of cash at the minute - so much so that they're still trying to convince themselves that Philippe Senderos isn't Arsenal's worst defender, Andriy Shevchenko isn't past it and Giuseppe Favalli didn't lose whatever little talent he had 750 years ago. Surprisingly, Kaka only picks up about $6.7m in sponsorship deals. The picture of professionalism, the Brazilian wouldn't look out of place on a golf course himself - it's a miracle he's not making more. Behind Ronaldinho, Cristiano Ronaldo is the next most marketable footballer - last year netting $18.9m in addition to the $11.4m from his contract - and his stock is bound to continue rising.
Another Barça player - the third of the erstwhile Fantastic Four - is the next highest earner in the game. Thierry Henry, who established himself as one of the best players in the world during his days with Arsenal, has contractual parity with Cristiano Ronaldo since signing for Barcelona. However, despite a lucrative deal he, Federer and Woods have with Gillette as well as his va-va-voom franchise with Renault, France's all-time leading scorer's sponsorship earnings aren't in the same league as either of them, at 'just' $14.7m. Poor Samuel Eto'o: no wonder he was so full of outrageous wage demands this summer - he was just trying to break even with his buddies.
The last of the money men are what can only be described as Roman Abramovich's boys - the Chelsea lot. John Terry and Michael Ballack earn $21.6m and $21.5m respectively, Frank Lampard is on the same $12.1m wage as Terry - a fraction more than Ballack for ego's sake and little more - while Didier Drogba is making $10.5m as well. We can't forget Andriy Shevchenko, who cost the Blues $60m and is still earning $11.1m a year, though on loan at Milan and no doubt in line for one hell of a pay cut if the move is made permanent as expected. What he and others such as Ronaldinho and Henry demonstrate is that often the most money will fall at the feet of athletes once they have already peaked - it's all downhill from there - yet they continue to make the most money off the back of former glories while the new school are making history in the now. Who might we see on this list in two or three years' time?
If Emmanuel Adebayor had his way, he'd probably be top of the pile now and forever, because he's just that damn good. However, as it stands, it is of little surprise that none of the Wenger boys made the cut, while Liverpool's Steven Gerrard is close but doesn't quite break $20m a year. Manchester United's top earner is thought to be Wayne Rooney, while Real Madrid super-stopper Iker Casillas, Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Internazionale and Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero are all close by as well.
At the end of the day, all of our leading stars in the world's most popular sport must resign themselves to the fact that basketball is twice as lucrative though half as popular, the fattest contract goes to a man who plays a sport which even a large percentage of Americans admit is boring, and the biggest sponsorship deals and overall earnings to two guys who star in a sport that athletes, doctors and your father tend to play during their time off. We could all be rich...
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Lefty's hefty salary puts him at number two on the rich list of the sporting world and, if the second best golfer is the second highest earner, there are no prizes for guessing who holds the top spot. Arguably the greatest golfer of all time - and he certainly will be by the time he retires - Tiger Woods has for successive years been named the highest earning athlete in the world. The 32-year-old is making over twice as much as Mickelson - $127.9m - and looks set to become the first ever athlete to make over a billion dollars in earnings by 2010.
Role Of The Sponsors
Golf's monopoly on the top spots ends at second, as the 'global game' squeezes its way into the top three - and who other than David Beckham could come to soccer's rescue? Beckham cashed in $48.2m last year - far and away more than any other player - but contrary to popular belief, very little of that money is part of his basic contract. Noticeably past his prime as a player, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star earns approximately $5.3m-a-year from his contract with Los Angeles Galaxy. That may make him the highest earner in Major League Soccer, but there are many in Europe earning double that with their clubs.
Becks gets the majority of his money from Pepsi, Adidas, Police sunglasses, Sharpie permanent markers and whatever else he can get his hands on - and why not? He has even been able to ditch a big-money deal with Gillette and afford the luxury of some designer stubble and tell Brylcreem where to go when he shaved his head way back when.
Speaking of sponsors, there is no shortage of money in Formula One racing, no doubt due to the logos plastered all over each car like a collage gone horribly wrong. Lewis Hamilton's rise to stardom over the past 18 months has seen the money roll in at $27.6m per year, yet he's not quite in the same league as Kimi Räikkönen, with the emerging Finn hot on Beckham's trail with his cool return of $46m, though it could rise as high as $51m depending on his success rate. Fernando Alonso had been earning even more, but abandoned a lucrative contract with McLaren, switching back to Renault and having to settle for $35m, though that figure could rise back up to around $45m. To put matters in perspective, the invincible Michael Schumacher earned as much as both Alonso and Räikkönen put together when in his prime and the sporting world's highest earner, having since retired in 2006.
Thus when we turn our attention back to the golf course we see where the money really comes from. It is estimated that approximately $105m of Tiger Woods' overall earnings came from sponsorship deals. Mickelson, too, earns five times as much from his sponsors than he does on the golf course, by virtue of his every item of clothing being branded by the likes of accounting firm KPMG, Barclays bank and Rolex. We can say he chose his sponsors wisely - but who knew golfers were so marketable? After all, how many people are really watching when compared with other major sports? More than we thought, it seems - or maybe it's that golf viewers remain of the upper class and are in such a high financial bracket that advertisers go the extra monetary mile to attract their attention.
Contracts
But what about contracts? Surely they're the real measure of the athlete? To that end, great interest surrounds who has the biggest contract, or in other words, whose talent is worth the most money. The results are surprising: Beckham and Mickelson are among the lowest earners in the entire 'rich list' of top athletes, yet sponsors shoot them all the way up to third and second respectively. Baseball star Alex Rodriguez has far and away the largest contract in professional sport, earning an unbelievable $29m per year from the New York Yankees.
Behind him is Woods, followed by other top stars in individual sports. Take boxing: 'Pretty Boy' Floyd Mayweather gave Ricky Hatton the runaround on his way to earning $20m in December, remaining unbeaten and picking up another $20.25m in sponsors. Publicity stunts such as his infamous parading around in a Manchester United shirt to anger Manchester City fan Hatton have done wonders for the undefeated phenom's image worldwide, though his earnings may well have now peaked, as he officially announced his retirement in June this year.
Then there is Roger Federer - very much the Tiger Woods of tennis - who isn't far off the pace either. Total earnings of $35m make the Swiss machine far and away the highest earner on the court, despite his drop in earnings due to losing top spot in the world rankings to Rafael Nadal this year. Maria Sharapova, with $21.75m, is the only woman to make the list, though young golfer Michelle Wie may soon have something to say about that. Sharapova's winnings are the lowest on the entire list, but she earns almost 20 times as much through sponsors, showing the potential marketability of women in the sporting world.
The Rich List
Rank
Athlete (Sport)
Salary
Sponsors
Total
01
Tiger Woods (Golf)
$22.9m
$105m
$127.9m
02
Phil Mickelson (Golf)
$9.3m
$53m
$62.3m
03
David Beckham (Soccer)
$5.3m
$42.9
$48.2m
04
Kimi Räikkönen (Formula One)
n/a
n/a
$46m
05
LeBron James (Basketball)
$12.5m
$28m
$40.5m
06
Floyd Mayweather (Boxing)
$20m
$20.25m
$40.25m
07
Lionel Messi (Soccer)
$12.5m
$23.3m
$35.8m
08
Kobe Bryant (Basketball)
$19.5m
$16m
$35.5m
09
Roger Federer (Tennis)
$10.1m
$25m
$35.1m
10
Fernando Alonso (Formula One)
n/a
n/a
$35m
11
Alex Rodriguez (Baseball)
$29m
$6m
$35m
12
Shaquille O'Neal (Basketball)
$20m
$15m
$35m
13
Ronaldinho (Soccer)
$7.5m
$27.5m
$35m
14
Valentino Rossi (Moto GP)
$6m
$28m
$34m
15
Kevin Garnett (Basketball)
$22m
$9m
$31m
16
Peyton Manning (Football)
$17.5m
$13m
$30.5m
17
Cristiano Ronaldo (Soccer)
$11.4m
$18.9m
$30.3m
18
Derek Jeter (Baseball)
$22m
$8m
$30m
19
Ichiro Suzuki (Baseball)
$17m
$10.6m
$27.6m
20
Lewis Hamilton (Formula One)
n/a
n/a
$27.6m
21
Thierry Henry (Soccer)
$11.4m
$14.7m
$26.1m
22
Maria Sharapova (Tennis)
$1.9m
$18.85m
$21.75m
23
John Terry (Soccer)
$12.1m
$9.5m
$21.6m
24
Michael Ballack (Soccer)
$11.6m
$9.9m
$21.5m
25
Kaka (Soccer)
$13.4m
$6.7m
$20.1m
Not all top earners are included; many athletes - mostly basketballers - earning between $20-30m have been omitted so that the list did not get too long. Also note that no salaries or winnings figures are 100% accurate as they ultimately remain confidential.
Land Of The Free (And Rich)
The $30 million and above club is dominated almost entirely by American sports - basketball by far the richest, then baseball and to a lesser extent, football - it's only from then on that soccer's familiar faces enter the fray. Beckham aside, Ronaldinho also cracks Team America's stranglehold on the financial world of sport. Despite taking a pay cut to join Milan, the Gaucho is still thought to earn almost $35m annually, of which at least $27.5m comes through sponsors. The bucktoothed wonder may have temporarily lost his smile, form and fitness, but the money keeps rolling on in regardless by virtue of those years that he was quite simply playing like one of the greatest of all time.
His former Barcelona team-mate, Lionel Messi, is another who has hit the big time. Very much Ronaldinho's successor for the Blaugrana, the unstoppable Argentine's humble nature, garden gnome facial expression and two-dollar haircut might fool you into believing he didn't smash his way past $30m last year, but apparently, he did.
Naturally, we could only go so far without mentioning the undisputed centre of attention in the beautiful game, the most maligned of the moment, in Cristiano Ronaldo. C-Ron earned just over $30m last year, and Uncle Alex will no doubt be lining some Portuguese pockets with a little extra after the 23-year-old chose to stay at Old Trafford this summer, turning down his dream move to Real Madrid following a confidential heart-to-heart with the wily old Scot in July. In due time he is sure to soar all the way up this list, but for now, he surprisingly finds himself in a comparitively modest position on the rich list. Maybe Sepp Blatter was right all along, the multi-millionaire must really be a slave after all.
But let's forget the Messi and Ronaldo hype for a minute: what about the man who was voted as and officially remains World and European Player of the Year? Never fear, Milanello, as Kaka is in fact in possession of the most lucrative contract, worth almost $13.5m per year.
Ignoring the fact that A-Rod earns over twice as much in basic wage alone, let's remain focused on the positives: Kaka edges Lionel Messi in the contract stakes, despite his club being notoriously short of cash at the minute - so much so that they're still trying to convince themselves that Philippe Senderos isn't Arsenal's worst defender, Andriy Shevchenko isn't past it and Giuseppe Favalli didn't lose whatever little talent he had 750 years ago. Surprisingly, Kaka only picks up about $6.7m in sponsorship deals. The picture of professionalism, the Brazilian wouldn't look out of place on a golf course himself - it's a miracle he's not making more. Behind Ronaldinho, Cristiano Ronaldo is the next most marketable footballer - last year netting $18.9m in addition to the $11.4m from his contract - and his stock is bound to continue rising.
Another Barça player - the third of the erstwhile Fantastic Four - is the next highest earner in the game. Thierry Henry, who established himself as one of the best players in the world during his days with Arsenal, has contractual parity with Cristiano Ronaldo since signing for Barcelona. However, despite a lucrative deal he, Federer and Woods have with Gillette as well as his va-va-voom franchise with Renault, France's all-time leading scorer's sponsorship earnings aren't in the same league as either of them, at 'just' $14.7m. Poor Samuel Eto'o: no wonder he was so full of outrageous wage demands this summer - he was just trying to break even with his buddies.
The last of the money men are what can only be described as Roman Abramovich's boys - the Chelsea lot. John Terry and Michael Ballack earn $21.6m and $21.5m respectively, Frank Lampard is on the same $12.1m wage as Terry - a fraction more than Ballack for ego's sake and little more - while Didier Drogba is making $10.5m as well. We can't forget Andriy Shevchenko, who cost the Blues $60m and is still earning $11.1m a year, though on loan at Milan and no doubt in line for one hell of a pay cut if the move is made permanent as expected. What he and others such as Ronaldinho and Henry demonstrate is that often the most money will fall at the feet of athletes once they have already peaked - it's all downhill from there - yet they continue to make the most money off the back of former glories while the new school are making history in the now. Who might we see on this list in two or three years' time?
If Emmanuel Adebayor had his way, he'd probably be top of the pile now and forever, because he's just that damn good. However, as it stands, it is of little surprise that none of the Wenger boys made the cut, while Liverpool's Steven Gerrard is close but doesn't quite break $20m a year. Manchester United's top earner is thought to be Wayne Rooney, while Real Madrid super-stopper Iker Casillas, Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Internazionale and Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero are all close by as well.
At the end of the day, all of our leading stars in the world's most popular sport must resign themselves to the fact that basketball is twice as lucrative though half as popular, the fattest contract goes to a man who plays a sport which even a large percentage of Americans admit is boring, and the biggest sponsorship deals and overall earnings to two guys who star in a sport that athletes, doctors and your father tend to play during their time off. We could all be rich...
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