Friday, 30 May 2014

England 3-0 Peru: Sturridge stunner helps Three Lions to friendly win

England 3-0 Peru: Sturridge stunner helps Three Lions to friendly winDefence was the best form of attack for England as they kicked off their World Cup preparations with a 3-0 win over Peru.

After Daniel Sturridge had opened the scoring for the hosts in the first half, defensive duo Gary Cahill and Phil Jagielka found the net to send England on their way with a comfortable victory.

Boss Roy Hodgson included six players who ply their Premier League trade on Merseyside in his starting XI,and it was the Liverpool pairing of Glen Johnson and Sturridge who combined for the opener.

Johnson's quick-thinking from a throw-in opened the door for Sturridge to shoot from the edge of the penalty area and he made no mistake in curling the ball into the top left-hand corner in the 32nd minute.

Everton's Leighton Baines provided the cross for Cahill to head home England's second in the 65th minute, before Jagielka capitalised on a goalkeeping error to net a third.

Hodgson's strong starting XI may have offered a hint as to the team that will start England's World Cup opener against Italy on June 14, with Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson among the more notable inclusions, while Adam Lallana also started.

Goalscoring chances were few and far between in the opening stages, but the reactions of England goalkeeper Joe Hart were put to the test in the 19th minute when Jean Deza's effort from outside the penalty area deflected off Jagielka and almost looped over the Manchester City man.

England were soon causing problems at the other end, though, and Sturridge will have been disappointed after dragging an effort across the face of goal one minute later.

But when the opener came, it was through the swift actions of two members of England's sizeable Liverpool contingent.

Johnson delivered the ball to Sturridge from a throw-in, and the Anfield frontman produced a wonderful finish to delight the sizeable Wembley crowd.

Deza got a sight of goal again 10 minutes into the second half, but his 20-yard hit whistled just over Hart's crossbar.

England then doubled their advantage with 25 minutes left, when Cahill rose well to head home as a helpless Luis Advincula attempted to clear off the line.

And the result was put beyond doubt five minutes later as Jagielka poked home after Peru keeper Raul Fernandez spilled the ball at his feet from a corner.

Hodgson introduced a number of players from the bench in the second half, and handed a senior debut to Everton youngster John Stones, who came on in place of Baines in the 75th minute.

England's World Cup build-up now moves on to the United States, where they face friendlies against Ecuador and Honduras on Wednesday and Saturday respectively.

Arsenal target Morata open to Real Madrid exit

Arsenal target Morata open to Real Madrid exit 

The highly-rated 21-year-old has featured just four times for Los Blancos this season and concedes that he might be forced to leave in order to secure regular game time
Alvaro Morata has admitted that he will consider quitting Real Madrid if it becomes clear that he will not be allowed to play a "relevant role" at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The 21-year-old is widely regarded is one of the most talented young forwards in Spain but although he has made 10 Liga appearances for Los Blancos this season, he has not been afforded a single start by coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Consequently, speculation is rife that Arsenal, who have a shortage of striking options, are ready to make a move for Morata, and the forward admits that despite his love for Madrid, he is open to a move away.

"Real Madrid have been my team since I was little and will be all my life, but I think the important thing is to have a relevant role in the team," the Spain Under-21 international told Minuto 116.

"If I ever feel that's not the case, I would look at other options. In football, it's very difficult to stay at the top and even more so in a team like Real."

Despite his limited game time this term, Morata has still managed two Liga goals for Madrid.

Real Madrid ready to make Suarez move

Luis Suarez should ditch Liverpool if Real Madrid come calling this summer
Real Madrid want to sign Liverpool striker Luis Suarez this summer. The Uruguayan is the Champions League holders' number one target and they will sell Alvaro Morata to help fund the minimum €60m (£48m) offer they will need to make.
It would be the perfect way for the Uruguayan to finish a sensational individual campaign before moving on to bigger and better things.

Suarez has been the outstanding player in the division this season with a stunning record of 30 goals in 31 league matches, a strike rate that propelled Liverpool up the table into an unlikely title race.

The Reds can still win their first championship in 24 years if Manchester City slip up - but whatever happens, Suarez should be seriously considering a summer move to Real Madrid.

Podolski happy to stay at Arsenal

Podolski happy to stay at Arsenal
The Germany international striker is satisfied with 15 goals in an injury-disrupted season and insists that moving to London two summers ago was the right decision for his career
Arsenal striker Lukas Podolski says that he is happy to stay at the club after their FA Cup-winning season.

The German is understood to be one of several players on the edge of the first team who could be allowed to leave the Emirates Stadium this summer but feels that he could still do even better in north London.

After two seasons at the club, Podolski is sure that he made the right choice in joining them from Koln and is keen to hang around.

"As things stand today, I am an Arsenal player [and tomorrow] it won't change," the 28-year-old told reporters.

"Going to London was the right step. I had the chance to go to a big club and to play in the strongest league in the world. I am happy in the city, in the league, in the club. Those two years have been outstanding for me."

Podolski scored 12 goals in 27 appearances for the Gunners in 2013-14 and argues that, if it were not for injury, he would have gone even further.

"If my bad injury hadn't stopped me for almost five months it would have been a better season again," he lamented.

"Nevertheless I am satisfied. In the end, I was a regular starter, scored eight goals and had four assists in the league. It's nothing to sneeze at."

The striker added of their FA Cup triumph: "I am not someone that reduces himself only to the titles he won.

"Lukas Podolski doesn't change just because he won a title but, of course, a title is something awesome - even more if it's in a foreign country and in such an important competition.

"Especially from the aspect that Arsenal hadn't won anything for nine years, this success was something special.

Official: Wenger signs new Arsenal contract

Official: Wenger signs new Arsenal contract
The manager has penned a three-year extension to his current deal, which was set to expire this summer after their FA Cup triumph, to tie him to the club until the 20-year mark
Arsene Wenger has penned a three-year contract extension at Arsenal, the club have confirmed.

The Frenchman agreed an extension in principle in October but, since that time, a two-year deal has become three after the Gunners returned to winning ways with triumph in the FA Cup final.

Wenger turned down a £1 million-per-year pay rise in March but began discussions over the summer plans for the club as he set his sights on securing a top-four finish and FA Cup glory.

Thursday, 29 May 2014

I'm ready to replace Sagna at Arsenal, insists Jenkinson



I'm ready to replace Sagna at Arsenal, insists Jenkinson
Carl Jenkinson believes he can be the man to replace Manchester City-bound Bacary Sagna at Arsenal.

Sagna's contract expires this summer and Goal revealed last week that the Frenchman has opened formal talks with the Premier League champions, with both parties confident of reaching an agreement.

And Jenkinson, who made 22 appearances in all competitions last season, is confident he can fill the void left by Sagna next season.
ARSENAL LATEST
9/1 Arsenal are 9/1 with Paddy Power to win the title next season
"I feel that I am ready for it [starting at right-back]," Jenkinson told the London Evening Standard.

Arsenal stars at the heart of French revival


France's forward Olivier Giroud gestures as he celebrates the scoring of a goal during a friendly football match between France and Norway at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis near Paris, on May 27, 2014, ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup football tournament. AFP PHOTO / FRANCK FIFE        (Photo credit should read FRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images) 
Pre-World Cup friendlies are supposed to be nothing more than a warm-up for the real thing. But sometimes, they turn out to be dangerous traps for over-confident or exhausted teams. France reassured their supporters on Tuesday night by winning their first game 4-0 against Norway, playing some inspired football in the process.

Two factors stood out in the comfortable win for Didier Deschamps’ men:
1. Deschamps opts for fitness
Far too many French players are currently injured; Franck Ribery and Eliaquim Mangala joined Karim Benzema and Raphael Varane among the unavailable possible starters. Deschamps, therefore, had to pick players who will not necessarily enjoy much game time once the real tournament begins.
It must be noted, though, that everyone seems to be motivated in the French team. Antoine Griezmann and Mathieu Valbuena appear to have a promising understanding on the field. Loic Remy proved once again that he’s a very talented finisher, as his time at Newcastle showed. Lucas Digne demonstrated an incredible work-rate on the left flank and it shouldn’t go unnoticed that goalkeeper Stephane Ruffier had a very solid game despite not having much to do.
2. Leaders have emerged
Laurent Koscielny’s place at centre-back was considered uncertain with Mangala, Varane and Mamadou Sakho pushing to be in the starting XI but the Arsenal man took advantage of the injuries and had a very solid game. A recent statistic showed that he was the tidiest defender in England in possession, with 94 per cent of his passes completed, and he proved it yesterday – his passing was perfect.
The three-man midfield of Paul Pogba, Yohan Cabaye and Blaise Matuidi stopped every attack attempted by the opponent and played as if they had been alongside each other for years. Up front, Olivier Giroud’s efficiency and selflessness and was rewarded with two goals.
National team coaches like to work on and rethink their teams until the very last minute before the tournament, but they are very happy when they can count on a strong, reliable spine. In 1998, that was already the case with Fabien Barthez, Laurent Blanc, Marcel Desailly, Deschamps and Zinedine Zidane. Paraguay, France’s next opponent, should be fearful.

Arsenal eye £24m-rated Rodrigo

Arsenal are eying a move for Benfica striker Rodrigo as Arsene Wenger continues to look for ways to strengthen his attack. The Spanish forward is likely to cost around £24 million, and the Gunners will need to beat off competition from Valencia.

Arsenal checking Di Maria, Pedro and Cuadrado

Di Maria: My future lies in Real Madrid's hands
Arsenal are keen on signing a new winger and are keeping tabs on Angel Di Maria, Pedro and Juan Cuadrado.

Eto'o wants Arsenal move



Samuel Eto'o has made moving to Arsenal his No.1 priority this summer as he is keen to prove Jose Mourinho wrong, after the Chelsea boss questioned his age last season.

Giroud: Lack of maturity cost Arsenal in title race

Giroud: Lack of maturity cost Arsenal in title race
The Gunners spent 128 days at the top of the Premier League - more than any of their rivals - but fell away in the final months of the season, eventually finishing fourth
Arsenal cracked in the Premier League title race as a result of a lack of maturity, according to striker Olivier Giroud.

Arsene Wenger's men ended their nine-year trophy drought by winning the FA Cup but it was another underwhelming Premier League campaign for the London club.

De Gea: I'm trying to get Fabregas to join Manchester United

De Gea: I'm trying to get Fabregas to join Manchester United
The Barcelona midfielder snubbed a move to Old Trafford last summer but the Spain goalkeeper has not given up hope of convincing the 27-year-old to make the switch to England
David de Gea has revealed that he is attempting to convince Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas to join him at Manchester United.

Fabregas's future at Camp Nou is uncertain following a difficult 2013-14 campaign for the Catalan club, with new boss Luis Enrique refusing to confirm the Spain international will definitely stay put for next season.

United openly pursued the former Arsenal captain last summer only for the midfielder to reject a move to England, but with the 27-year-old a potential target for new United boss Louis van Gaal, De Gea insists he is trying to get his compatriot to return to the Premier League.

When asked about Fabregas, De Gea told La Sexta: "I've tried to convince Cesc to join United but it's difficult. He feels great at Barca, it's his home."

Former Atletico Madrid goalkeeper De Gea could win his first cap for Spain in their World Cup warm-up fixture against Bolivia on Friday and insists he cannot wait to be given the chance to make his first appearance for his country.

"We don't know who's going to play against Bolivia, but we have to be ready in case we get the nod," he said.

"I'm raring to make my debut. There's a lot of competition in goal, but I'm enjoying myself and pushing myself to the max in training.

"There's a lot of speculation about who will go to Brazil and who won't. A few players are carrying fitness issues and we just have to wait for the gaffer to make his decision: it's as simple as that."

Vicente del Bosque has delayed announcing his final 23-man squad for the tournament in Brazil partly due injury concerns around Chelsea-bound Diego Costa and De Gea agrees that the Atletico striker should be given us much time as possible to recover.

"Of course we should wait for Costa, he's a top player. I played alongside him for several years at Atleti and he's really blossomed this year.

"We have to wait and see how he progresses and hopefully he'll be 100 per cent."

Ozil: I want to become Germany legend at World Cup

Ozil: I want to become Germany legend at World Cup
Ozil heads into the tournament on the back of a season which saw him notch five goals and nine assists in 26 Premier League games for Arsenal, as well as winning the FA Cup to end the club's nine-year trophy drought.But the 25-year-old has yet to taste success at senior international level, with Germany's last major triumph coming some 18 years ago at Euro 96 in England.


ARSENAL LATEST
11/2 Germany are 11/2 with Paddy Power to win the World Cup
But the 25-year-old has yet to taste success at senior international level, with Germany's last major triumph coming some 18 years ago at Euro 96 in England.

It is a long barren spell for a country which boasts three World Cup wins, and Ozil says he is driven by the desire to match the achievements of past greats such as Fritz Walter, Wolfgang Overath and Lothar Matthaus

Manchester United owner Malcolm Glazer dies at 85

Manchester United owner Malcolm Glazer dies at 85
The 85-year-old, who also owned the American football franchise Tampa Bay Buccaneers passed away on Wednesday morning, the NFL team have confirmed
Manchester United owner Malcolm Glazer has died at the age of 85.

The American businessman, who also owns American football franchise Tampa Bay Buccaneers, passed away on Wednesday.

A statement on the Buccaneers' website confirmed: "The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are saddened to announce the passing of Owner/President Malcolm Glazer earlier this morning at the age of 85."
Glazer purchased United in 2005, with the Red Devils going on to win five Premier League titles, the Champions League and the Club World Cup under his stewardship.
And the club expressed expressed their condolences to the Glazer family in a short statement on their website, which read: "The thoughts of everyone at Manchester United are with the Glazer family tonight following the news that Malcolm Glazer has passed away.

"Malcolm leaves behind his wife Linda, six children and 14 grandchildren. Staff at Manchester United extend deep and sincere condolences to them all at this difficult time."

Wednesday, 28 May 2014

Poll: Should Wenger make re-signing Fabregas for Arsenal his priority this summer?

Poll: Should Wenger make re-signing Fabregas for Arsenal his priority this summer?Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is understood to have £100 million to spend this summer on reinforcements but should he part with sentiment and ignore the opportunity to buy back the club's former captain, Cesc Fabregas?

Goal revealed in April that Barcelona would be prepared to listen to offers for the player whom they bought from the Gunners nearly three years ago and, with the north Londoners understood to have first refusal on a player of undoubted class, Wenger might be tempted to exercise that clause.

But former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour believes that Wenger's priorities should lie elsewhere and that he should be looking to buy a striker capable of providing Olivier Giroud with genuine competition before adding to his already well-stocked midfield.

The Gunners are also likely to require defensive reinforcements this summer, with Bacary Sagna expected to complete a move to Manchester City in the coming weeks, while club captain Thomas Vermaelen is also set to reassess his future after the World Cup.

Wenger, who himself is yet to sign a new contract with the club, will also be in the market for a new goalkeeper after FA Cup hero Lukasz Fabianski revealed that the Wembley triumph over Hull City marked his last appearance for club.

Watch Arsenal's best goals of the 2013-14 season


Watch Arsenal's best goals of the 2013-14 season Arsenal have produced a Youtube video featuring a montage of the club's best goals of the 2013-14 Premier League season.

The video features Jack Wilshere's brilliant team goal against Norwich in a 4-1 home win in October, Aaron Ramsey's 25-yard strike in a 2-0 win over Liverpool at Emirates Stadium in November and Tomas Rosicky's screamer in the Gunners' 1-0 north London derby victory over Tottenham in March.

Arsenal scored 68 goals in 38 games in the Premier League last season, eventually finishing fourth and securing qualification for the Champions League for the 17th consecutive campaign.

Watch the video below

Monday, 26 May 2014

Arsenal need the right striker to get the best out of 'devastating' Ozil - Lahm

Arsenal need the right striker to get the best out of 'devastating' Ozil - LahmPhilipp Lahm is confident that Mesut Ozil will be "devastating" for Arsenal next season - if the club can sign the right striker this summer.

Ozil lifted his first silverware as a Gunners player on Saturday when his side beat Hull City in the FA Cup final at Wembley but his debut season in English football was marked by widespread criticism.

Following some below-par displays over Christmas and into the New Year, the €50 million signing was accused of lacking fight in some quarters but Bayern Munich utility man Lahm says that the playmaker's talent is obvious and just needs to be properly exploited.

"Anybody who has played with Mesut will tell you how intelligent he is as a player," Lahm told Goal. "His vision is probably the best I have ever seen and that is why it is so important to have the right striker ahead of him.

"He is a dream for strikers and you saw that with [Cristiano] Ronaldo and [Karim] Benzema when he was at Madrid. If Arsenal can find the right striker who is fast and makes intelligent runs - then Mesut will be devastating next season.

PSG and Chelsea reach David Luiz deal


PSG and Chelsea reach David Luiz deal

The Brazilian defender is nearing his move to the Parc des Princes as the clubs announce that terms have been reached over a record fee for a defender

Sunday, 25 May 2014

Van Gaal: Van Persie is my captain

RVP in line for United captaincy

RVP in line for United captaincy


Louis van Gaal is set to take over at Old Trafford in the summer and has dropped a hint that he will choose the striker to lead his new side

Van Gaal confirmed as new Man Utd boss.

Van Gaal confirmed as new Man Utd boss

Van Gaal confirmed as new Man Utd boss


The Old Trafford outfit have announced that the Dutchman will take charge of the club on a three-year deal, and Ryan Giggs will be his assistant

Arsenal consider move for Juanfran as Aurier alternative

Arsenal consider move for Juanfran as Aurier alternative

Arsenal are considering a move for Atletico Madrid right-back Juanfran as an alternative to Toulouse's Serge Aurier, Goal understands.

The Gunners have made a new right-back one of their main priorities as they target a replacement for Manchester City-bound Bacary Sagna.
The Gunners have been closely monitoring possible Sagna replacements this season in the event that they could not agree a new deal with the 31-year-old.

Aurier has impressed Arsene Wenger's scouting team with his performances for Ligue 1 side Toulouse. He has been a regular provider as well as scorer this season from his right-back role, weighing in with six goals and six assists in league matches alone.

The 21-year-old, who is a full Cote d'Ivoire international, is set to feature in the World Cup this summer and is regarded as a versatile defender who can fill in at left-back and centre-back as well as his favourite right-back role.

Wenger wants deals in place for two new players before the World Cup, even if the formalities are not completed until after the event.

Sagna has told Arsenal he will not extend his contract, which expires next month, and, as revealed by Goal, he was in Manchester on Monday for talks with City.

The Frenchman is close to agreeing a three-year deal with the Premier League champions worth £100,000-a-week plus a sizeable signing-on fee. 

Pedro: I don't know if I'll stay at Barca



Pedro: I don't know if I'll stay at Barca
The 26-year-old has admitted that he is unhappy with how little game time he enjoyed last season but hinted that he wants to work with Luis Enrique
Barcelona winger Pedro has admitted that he is in the dark as to whether he will still be at the club at the start of the season.

The Spain international netted a total of 19 goals in all competitions this season but has still been linked with a move away from Camp Nou this summer.

Pedro has stressed that he is happy in Catalunya but admitted that he would have liked to have featured more for his side over the past year.

"I don't know [if I'll stay]," he told AS. "I'm happy at the club, but I don't know what the future holds for me.

"I'd rather have played more, especially in big games, where I featured less.

"Overall, I ended up happy because in the games where I played, I was able to help the team a lot. We'll see what happens next year.

"It's not easy to get into the Barcelona team. The coach decided to use other players and I respect his opinion. I don't hold any grudges."

Pedro did say, however, that Luis Enrique could well prove to be a good appointment as Gerardo Martino's replacement and has been impressed by his work at Celta Vigo.

"I think he'll fit in well. He has the advantage of knowing the intricacies of the club," he said.

"Luis Enrique is a coach with character, with clear ideas."

Pedro's immediate concern is Spain's World Cup campaign and the 26-year-old is hoping to enjoy further success at international level.

"We are the champions and we'll try to win the title. It would be nice to do it, but the competition out there complicates it.

"The most important thing in this type of competition is to progress, but it's preferable to finish first in your group because it gives you more confidence for the knockout stages."

Messi is never Barcelona's problem - Neymar


Messi is never Barcelona's problem - NeymarBarcelona star Neymar has insisted that Lionel Messi is never a burden to the team.

The Argentine suffered a stop-start season due to injury and came in for heavy criticism after their Champions League exit at the hands of Atletico Madrid in April for an allegedly poor attitude.

However, his Brazilian team-mate has defended his fellow attacker, stessing his important to the Catalan club.

"In my opinion, Messi is the best player I've ever seen," Neymar is quoted as saying by Sport.

"I've never seen anything like him. I'll defend him until the death. He is our solution, never our problem."

Neymar went on to express his excitement about the start of the World Cup in just over two weeks' time in his home country.

"Since I was three, I've wanted to play in a World Cup," the forward admitted. "I grew up watching Romario and Ronaldo. It's a dream to be at the World Cup."

Luis Suarez should ditch Liverpool if Real Madrid come calling this summer








Luis Suarez should ditch Liverpool if Real Madrid come calling this summerLuis Suarez faces Crystal Palace tonight needing two more goals in Liverpool’s remaining two fixtures to break the Premier League scoring record over a 38-game season.

It would be the perfect way for the Uruguayan to finish a sensational individual campaign before moving on to bigger and better things.

Suarez has been the outstanding player in the division this season with a stunning record of 30 goals in 31 league matches, a strike rate that propelled Liverpool up the table into an unlikely title race.

The Reds can still win their first championship in 24 years if Manchester City slip up - but whatever happens, Suarez should be seriously considering a summer move to Real Madrid.

The Insider: Arsenal in Madrid to negotiate with mystery player

The Insider: Arsenal in Madrid to negotiate with mystery player

 Arsenal have sent a delegation to Madrid to hold talks with a mystery star player, The Insider can reveal.

The Gunners are closely pursuing a wide forward who Arsene Wenger and his scouts believe can be developed into a centre-forward.

It is understood that the player is regarded as a marquee talent and would cost a considerable chunk of the €123 million-plus transfer warchest available to Wenger this summer. If a deal can be agreed, the plan is for him to go straight into the first team next season.

Chief executive Ivan Gazidis and contract negotiator Dicky Law are both believed to have been involved in the talks, which demonstrates the seriousness of Arsenal's pursuit of the forward.

Although discussions have taken place in Madrid, the player is not necessarily affiliated to either of the capital-based clubs who competed in Saturday's all-Spanish Champions League final.

Arsenal's top priority this summer is to clinch the signing of an elite forward who can provide competition next season for Olivier Giroud, the only senior striker at Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners tried to sign Julian Draxler in a €37m deal in January and failed with moves for Luis Suarez, Gonzalo Higuain and Wayne Rooney last summer as well as a last-ditch loan bid for Demba Ba


Watch all of Ronaldo's goals in a record-breaking Champions League campaign


The Portugal star has been in glittering form, beginning the campaign with a hat-trick against Galatasaray in a 6-1 win en route to notching a record nine strikes in the group stages, and only failed to find the net against Bayern Munich in the semi-final first leg.

However, the winger made amends at the Allianz Arena in the return fixture, grabbing two in a 4-0 win over die Roten and surpassing the previous best goals tally of 14 set by Jose Altafini at AC Milan in 1962-63 and matched by Messi in 2011-12.

Ronaldo now has 68 Champions League goals to his name, one more than Messi, and is just four behind Raul's overall record of 71 as he continues to set new standards for European competition.

madrid celebration in pictures

Mendieta: La Liga rules EuropeWatch all of Ronaldo's goals in a record-breaking Champions League campaign
Sleeping in cars, washing by the side of the road - it will have all been worth it as Madrid claim La Decima

Champions League Team of the Season: Ronaldo and Ibrahimovic lead all-star cast of 2013-14



Champions League Team of the Season: Ronaldo and Ibrahimovic lead all-star cast of 2013-14Real Madrid's dramatic 4-1 win over Atletico Madrid sealed the fabled Decima triumph as the 2013-14 Champions League drew to a thrilling close on Saturday in Lisbon.

There were records broken, upsets pulled off and dramatic comebacks aplenty in an enthralling competition, and the standout stars of the tournament this term have been rewarded with a place in Goal's Team of the Season.

In goal is Atletico's on-loan star Thibaut Courtois. The Belgian, who is yet to reach a decision on whether he will return full-time to parent club Chelsea for next term, secured five clean sheets in 12 matches in the tournament and was a model of consistency in Atleti's surprise march to the final.

Our back four begins with Branislav Ivanovic, who was part of an exemplary Blues defence which kept seven clean sheets prior to their 3-1 semi-final second leg loss to Atletico. The Serbian was a crucial cog in Jose Mourinho's solid side and even managed to create six goalscoring chances from full-back.

In central defence, Sergio Ramos earns a place after some colossal performances in the latter stages of the tournament. The Spaniard was a rock at the back for Madrid, particularly in the semi-final against Bayern Munich, against whom he scored an impressive double in Germany. After a shaky start in the final, Ramos became a vital springboard for Madrid's efforts to get back into the game and his last-gasp header was fully deserved following his Lisbon showing.

Alongside Ramos is Atletico stalwart Miranda. The Brazilian was a rock for Simeone's side, particularly in the wins over Barcelona and Chelsea, and his tremendous efforts in keeping Madrid's attackers quiet for much of the first 100 minutes in Lisbon meant he certainly did not deserve to be on the losing side.

Miranda's team-mate Filipe Luis completes our back four, with the left-back notching a goal and an assist to cap a hugely impressive campaign for the beaten finalists.

First up in our three-man midfield is Luka Modric. The Croatian has established himself as one of Madrid's best players under Carlo Ancelotti, creating close to 20 goalscoring chances and maintaining a pass completion rate of more than 92 per cent throughout the tournament.

In the middle, Philipp Lahm just about earns the spot after a remarkable season playing in two different roles for Bayern. Lahm, shifted into central midfield for much of the campaign under Pep Guardiola, was exemplary on the ball and in screening the defence against Manchester City in the group stage and was at his brilliant best in switching between midfield and full-back against Arsenal and Manchester United in the knockout rounds.

Finally, Angel Di Maria completes the midfield trio, with the Argentine adapting to a central role in fine style this season as he notched three goals and six assists in the competition and put in a man-of-the-match showing in the final in Lisbon with his electric bursts forward.

Our three-man attack begins with Marco Reus. The Borussia Dortmund star enjoyed another impressive campaign in Europe, notching five goals and three assists before Jurgen Klopp's side were edged out by eventual winners Madrid in the quarter-finals. Reus scored a double in the second leg to inflict the only defeat on the Spanish side in this season's tournament.

The central striker is none other than Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who lit up the first two rounds of the tournament with 10 goals in just eight appearances for Paris Saint-Germain. The Sweden star was sidelined for the return trip to Chelsea due to a hamstring injury, with the French champions ultimately crashing out in his absence.

Finally, this season's top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo secures the final spot in our XI after a quite remarkable campaign. The Portugal captain broke the record for goals in the group stages with a total of nine strikes following on from his opening-day hat-trick before he went on to surpass Lionel Messi's best of 14 in one campaign with his double against Bayern. A late penalty in Saturday's final took Ronaldo to a record-setting 17 for one Champions League tournament as he inspired Madrid - finally - to La Decima.

Transfer Talk: Arsenal in for Balo

Transfer Talk: Arsenal in for Balo

 Arsenal and Liverpool are leading the race for AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli, who wants to leave Serie A this summer.

Saturday, 24 May 2014

116 Real Madrid complete Decima dream

Gareth Bale Real Madrid Atletico Madrid Champions League final 05242014
Real Madrid secured an historic 10th European title as they came from behind to secure a thrilling 4-1 win over Atletico Madrid in Lisbon on Saturday.

Diego Godin capitalised on a dreadful error from Iker Casillas to head home shortly before the end of the first half, but Ramos powered home from a corner in the dying minutes of normal time to keep Madrid's Decima dream alive.

With less than 10 minutes remaining in additional time, Bale headed into the top corner after Angel Di Maria's shot was saved by Thibaut Courtois before Marcelo buried a late left-footed strike and Cristiano Ronaldo scored a penalty to seal Madrid's first Champions League trophy since 2002.

Victory means Ancelotti has now won Europe's top prize as coach on three occasions, making him the most successful in the modern tournament's history, while Atletico were left to rue another late goal in European football's showpiece. The club's only other final appearance, in 1974, saw Bayern Munich force a replay – which they won 4-0 - with a 120th-minute goal.

Much of the pre-match talk surrounded the fitness of stars Ronaldo and Diego Costa, but both started, although Arda Turan was not so lucky and missed out with a knee problem.

Simeone's experiment to start Costa – who travelled to Serbia for specialist treatment on a niggling hamstring injury in the build-up – quickly backfired, though, as the striker limped off in the ninth minute and was replaced by Adrian Lopez.

Chances were few and far between in a cagey first 30 minutes before a sloppy Tiago error saw the contest come to life, with the midfielder conceding possession in his own half, only for Bale, after a menacing run, to shoot wide.

And Bale's missed chance proved costly in the 36th minute as Godin gave Atletico the lead against the run of play.

Real failed to clear a corner and Juanfran's header back into the box caught them napping, meaning goalkeeper Casillas had to come storming off his line.

He was too late to win the ball, though, and agonisingly saw Godin beat Sami Khedira and put a looping header over him and, eventually, over the line.

Thibaut Courtois had to be alert to tip over a deflected Ronaldo free kick in the 54th minute and the Real talisman spurned two more opportunities in the next 60 seconds, firing a snapshot wide before producing a wayward header.

Ronaldo is '100 per cent' fit and ready for penalties





Ronaldo is '100 per cent' fit and ready for penalties
Cristiano Ronaldo is fully fit for Real Madrid ahead of Saturday night's Champions League final against Atletico in Lisbon and the Portuguese practised penalties in his side's session at the Estadio da Luz on Friday.

Ronaldo pulled out of Madrid's game at home to Espanyol last weekend in the warm-up, but Real claimed that was merely a precaution and the 29-year-old has trained normally this week.

"Had it been a final, he would have played," coach Carlo Ancelotti said earlier this week of the decision not to risk Ronaldo last Saturday and the Italian added on Friday: "Cristiano has trained without any problems."

A relaxed Ronaldo was in an upbeat mood at training on Friday as he greeted former team-mate Raul, gave a thumbs-up to the television cameras and responded with an affirmative nod when asked if he was feeling good by ex-Madrid forward Predrag Mijatovic.

Cristiano looked lively in training alongside his team-mates and even took time to practise penalties ahead of Saturday's showpiece derby, smashing both efforts sublimely past Iker Casillas and into the top left-hand corner at the Estadio da Luz.

A Madrid source confirmed to Goal that Ronaldo is "100 per cent fit" for the final, his third in Europe's premier club competition (he won one and lost another with Manchester United) but first since joining Madrid in 2009.

The 29-year-old, who broke through at Benfica's city rivals Sporting Lisbon in 2002-03, was applauded by Portuguese fans in the stadium on Friday.

Ronaldo will be hoping for better memories at the Estadio da Luz, having lost the Euro 2004 final with Portugal to Greece at the Benfica stadium

Head-to-head: Real Madrid 2002 vs Real Madrid 2014

The Spanish giants hope to finally clinch a 10th European crown on Saturday, 12 years on from their last success.
When Fernando Hierro lifted aloft the Uefa Champions League trophy in 2002, few could have foreseen that it would be 12 years before Real Madrid would return to the showpiece final.
That 2-1 success over Bayer Leverkusen at Hampden Park showcased the talents of some of the greatest players of the era, with names like Zinedine Zidane, Luis Figo, Roberto Carlos and Raul playing a part in the Spanish giants' success. But if they are to be joined in the pantheon of European champions for the continent's most decorated club, then players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Sergio Ramos may well be deemed just as worthy of everlasting praise.
But which of the two outfits is the strongest? Is it Vicente Del Bosque's 2001-02 side or Carlo Ancelotti's 2013-14 version that deserves to be remembered most for their exploits. Both teams finished third in La Liga, and both found their way to the Champions League final, but who has the edge when broken down pound-for-pound?
In a bid to split the two, Goal compares below the strongest XIs available to the respective coaches, looking at their form over the Champions League-winning campaign rather than their careers as a whole.
IKER CASILLAS 2001-02 v IKER CASILLAS 2013-14

Surely the greatest curiosity over the two seasons in question is that these have been Iker Casillas' two most difficult spells in an otherwise untouched run as Real Madrid's indisputable number one. While in 2002, he replaced the injured Cesar Sanchez during the second half of the final, made a string of vital saves, and became first choice for over a decade thereafter, the 2014 showpiece could well finally signal his victory in the long-running battle with Diego Lopez for goalkeeping supremacy. The more experienced Casillas just about pips the head-to-head, despite not developing to quite the level many would have hoped a decade ago.
0 Winner: CASILLAS 2013-14 1

MICHEL SALGADO v DANI CARVAJAL

As successful outfits go, Madrid have always been more attacking than most, and their full-back choices generally reflect that. Neither Michel Salgado nor Dani Carvajal would immediately spring to mind when talking about the world's best defensive players but both have shown they can attack with some venom. Carvajal probably edges the comparison when it comes to ability off the ball, but Salgado displayed a unique ability to charge up and down the right flank without taking a breath over a period of many years. His quality overlap play behind first Luis Figo, then David Beckham, made him one of the most heralded full-backs of the early 21st century and in 2002 he was just beginning to hit his peak.
1 Winner: SALGADO 1

FERNANDO HIERRO v PEPE

Fernando Hierro was one of the greatest defenders ever to don a Real Madrid shirt. His inspirational leadership was a beacon for the likes of Raul and Casillas to follow, his wonderful reading of the game was crucial in a run of three European successes in five attempts following 32 barren years, and his form in 2002 was as good as at any stage in his career. In all honesty, it had to be given the overly attacking inclination of the rest of the team. Similarly, Pepe has a thankless task at hand in attempting to offset the instincts of Ronaldo, Bale, Benzema, Di Maria et al, but this has been his best season yet. He still has some way to go to match Hierro though.
2 Winner: HIERRO 1

IVAN HELGUERA v SERGIO RAMOS

Ivan Helguera's record with Real Madrid was phenomenal. Excelling as both a centre-back and a midfielder, the ex-Espanyol man would slot in effectively wherever needed, picking up nine trophies along the way. Like Hierro, he was as good as ever during the 2001-02 run, making light of many people's assertions that he was more at home in the engine room with a string of magnificent defensive displays. Sergio Ramos has had a similarly inspired run defensively, with his double in the semi-final win over Bayern Munich an additional highlight, but his occasional susceptibility when stretched and continued recklessness in key moments just edges Helguera ahead in the head-to-head.
3 Winner: HELGUERA 1

ROBERTO CARLOS v MARCELO

While the Brazilian tradition for attacking left-backs has continued unabated over the last 12 years, the quality has dropped from the notable high of Roberto Carlos. The former Inter man was an inspirational addition to the ranks as an early Galactico, and 2002 was arguably the highlight of his career. Just six weeks after collecting the Champions League, he also became a world champion with Brazil. Marcelo, in comparison, has not yet been able to show his undoubted talent with the regularity that Roberto Carlos displayed, and while his compatriot was a marvel when it came to covering the entire left flank, the 26-year-old is more prone to leaving space in behind.
4 Winner: ROBERTO CARLOS 1

CLAUDE MAKELELE v XABI ALONSO

After the summer clearout of 2003 which saw captain Fernando Hierro and coach Vicente Del Bosque shown the door, many people within Real Madrid actually looked beyond those two figures and proclaimed Claude Makelele to be the biggest loss. Famed for doing the tough work of protecting the centre-halves in an otherwise attack-heavy line-up, the Frenchman was arguably the allen key of the 2002 Madrid side, bringing the rest of the parts together into a complete outfit. But for Makelele of 2002, read Xabi Alonso of 2014. The Spain international has been a phenomenon in the heart of midfield and will arguably leave an even bigger hole than did Makelele when he eventually leaves the club. His absence from Saturday's final could well be Atletico's biggest boost.
4 Winner: ALONSO 2

LUIS FIGO v LUKA MODRIC

It may have cost Real Madrid €60 million and the severing of any diplomatic ties they ever had with Barcelona, but the transfer of Luis Figo was one of their biggest ever coups. During the spell between 2000 and 2004, he was an immovable object in the Madrid lineup, and in 2001-02 he was as vital as anyone, forming a sensational connection with Raul and Fernando Morientes thanks to his pace, power and finesse on the ball. While Luka Modric plays a rather different role, he also has had an excellent impact since signing from Tottenham, joining Xabi Alonso as an irreplaceable component in either a two or three-man midfield. Modric could yet go on to prove himself as one of the most vital signings of this Madrid era, but the Figo effect will take some matching.
5 Winner: FIGO 2

SANTI SOLARI v ANGEL DI MARIA

Santi Solari was one of the most underrated players of a Real Madrid squad full of them. While Zidane, Figo, Raul and Roberto Carlos hogged the headlines, the likes of Solari, Morientes, Helguera and Steve McManaman had a marvellous effect on the side both on and off the field. The Argentine was, though, part of a platoon for the final midfield position, with McManaman, Guti, Geremi, Flavio Conceicao and Savio among those who would occasionally be favoured. Di Maria, on the other hand, has made himself indisposable to Carlo Ancelotti with his performances both as a wide attacker and as a more withdrawn midfield man. His form this season has floored many onlookers who expected him to not even be in the club, let alone the first XI, for much of the campaign.
5 Winner: DI MARIA 3

ZINEDINE ZIDANE v GARETH BALE

In a team chocked full of Galacticos, Zinedine Zidane was unquestionably the finest of the lot. Bought for a world-record €70m from Juventus in the summer of 2001, his impact was immediate. He quickly became the figurehead of the charge towards European glory, and while some believed his goal against Deportivo La Coruna in La Liga in January would be impossible to top, he somehow managed it with an iconic volley in the Champions League final. Gareth Bale's arrival was similarly record-breaking, and has also seen him revel in a concerted run for European glory alongside his Copa del Rey-winning efforts. But even the Welshman himself would admit he has not quite managed to match the inexplicable performance levels set by the French legend.
6 Winner: ZIDANE 3

RAUL v CRISTIANO RONALDO

The King of Spain against the King of Portugal. One iconic number seven against another. A man with an unquenchable thirst for goals against an equally devastating finisher. Raul was the icon of an era which saw Madrid waltz to three Champions League successes, while Ronaldo has collected two Ballons d'Or in his quest to match his predecessor. The Spaniard broke Alfredo di Stefano's long-standing club record mark for goals scored, but it now appears a matter of time before Ronaldo usurps him as the Blancos' greatest ever finisher. Thanks to his sheer weight of goals, the Portuguese gets the nod between two almost inseparable legends. While Raul scored 29 goals in 55 games in 2001-02, including six in 12 in the Champions League, Ronaldo has netted 50 in 46, with a record 16 coming in a magnificent European season.
6 Winner: RONALDO 4

FERNANDO MORIENTES v KARIM BENZEMA

If there was one negative aspect to the signing in August 2002 of Brazilian legend Ronaldo, it was the resulting lack of playing time for Fernando Morientes. Alongside Raul, the Spaniard had been part of one of the most devastating forward partnerships of the era, and was a key member of the 2001-02 champions. But his lack of consistent goalscoring feats led to him being squeezed out of the picture, and in comparison Karim Benzema has revelled in the white shirt. His 24 goals this term have seen off the threat of Alvaro Morata as a potential replacement, taking his tally to 102 goals in four seasons following an unconvincing opening campaign in Spain.
6 Winner: BENZEMA 5