Italy beat Uruguay on penalties to win Confed third place

Italy won 3-2 on penalties over Uruguay after a 2-2 draw in 120 minutes to claim third place in the Confederations Cup.

Result:

After Extra Time: Italy 2 (Astori 24, Diamanti 73) Uruguay 2 (Cavani 58, 78)

Penalties: Italy 3 Uruguay 2.

Cavani agreed personal terms with Chelsea

image source: gembez.com

According to Mediaset, Napoli's striker Edinson Cavani agreed personal terms with Chelsea for a five-year contract worth 8.5 million euros per season.

The Uruguay international who is playing for his national team in the Confederations Cup in Brazil must now convince Napoli to lower his 63 million euros buy-out clause as Chelsea are unwilling to pay.

It is believed that both Real Madrid and Manchester City are no more interested in the La Celeste forward, as Los Blancos turned their attention towards Liverpool's Luis Suarez and the Citizens reported that they can't afford him.

source: football-italia.net

Wimbledon Day 5 results

Men’s Results:

• Andy Murray (Britain) beat Tommy Robredo (Spain) 6-2 6-4 7-5
• David Ferrer (Spain) beat Roberto Bautista (Spain) 6-3 3-6 7-6(4) 7-5
• Jerzy Janowicz (Poland) beat Nicolas Almagro (Spain) 7-6(6) 6-3 6-4
• Jurgen Melzer (Austria) beat Sergiy Stakhovsky (Ukraine) 6-2 2-6 7-5 6-3
• Adrian Mannarino (France) beat Dustin Brown (Germany) 6-4 6-2 7-5
• Tommy Haas (Germany) beat Jimmy Wang (Taiwan) 6-3 6-2 7-5
• Jeremy Chardy (France) beat Jan-Lennard Struff (Germany) 6-2 5-7 7-6(6) 7-6(4)
• Alexandr Dolgopolov (Ukraine) beat Santiago Giraldo (Colombia) 6-4 7-5 6-3
• Grega Zemlja (Slovenia) beat 29-Grigor Dimitrov (Bulgaria) 3-6 7-6(4) 3-6 6-4 11-9

Women’s Results:

• Kaia Kanepi (Estonia) beat Angelique Kerber (Germany) 3-6 7-6(6) 6-3
• Alison Riske (U.S.) beat Urszula Radwanska (Poland) 4-6 6-3 6-4
• Laura Robson (Britain) beat Mariana Duque (Colombia) 6-4 6-1
• Carla Suarez Navarro (Spain) beat Eugenie Bouchard (Canada) 7-5 6-2
• Kirsten Flipkens (Belgium) beat Vesna Dolonc (Serbia) 6-4 6-2
• Flavia Pennetta (Italy) beat Alize Cornet (France) 0-6 7-6(4) 6-2

Can Bayern Munich dominate Europe?

image source: ieeet.com

Bayern Munich were the best team in Europe this season they were unstoppable, winning every possible trophy. They can cover all areas of the pitch from defending to attacking and they are very fast in counter attacks thanks to Robben and Ribery, but can they keep up their current form for years ahead to dominate Europe? This is a major doubt.

The Bavarian's top players are aging, their fitness will not help them to be as fast as they are now and dominating the pitch will be as hard as ever. They are getting new blood like Mario Gotze, and with Pep Guardiola the team could maintain its power, but until we see how the players (old and new) will adapt to the new manager's formation and tactical plans, the supremacy of football in Europe is still not their property.

The Germans current key players' (Muller, Philipp Lahm, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Franck Ribéry, Arjen Robben and Manuel Neuer) age average is 28 and history has taught us that teams who dominated Europe for years had a much younger squad average age.


These are some of the greatest club sides of all time who were superiors to others:

Barcelona 2005-2011

• Honours: 3 Champions Leagues (2006, 2009, 2011), 4 La Liga titles (2006, 2009, 2010, 2011), 1 Spanish Cup (2009), 2 Club World Cups (2009, 2011), 2 UEFA Super Cups (2009, 2011), 4 Spanish Super Cups (2006, 2009, 2010, 2011)
• Key Players: Ronaldinho, Messi, Eto'o, Iniesta, Xavi, Puyol, Dani Alves, Deco
• Key players age average: 24.6

AC Milan 1988-94

• Honours: 3 European Cups (1989, 1990, 1994), 4 Serie A title (1988, 1992, 1993, 1994), 2 Intercontinental Cups (1989, 1990), 3 UEFA Super Cups (1989, 1990, 1994)
• Key Players: Ruud Gullit, Marco van Basten, Frank Rijkaard, Franco Baresi, Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Costacurta
• Key Players age average: 24.8

Liverpool 1977-1985

• Honours: 4 European Cups (1977, 1978, 1981, 1984), 7 Division One titles (1977, 1979, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985), 1 UEFA Super Cup (1977), 4 League Cups (1981, 1982, 1983, 1984)
• Key Players: Keegan, Dalglish, Hughes, Souness, Hansen, Rush
• Key Players age average: 25

Bayern Munich 1972-76

• Honours: 3 European Cups (1974, 1975, 1976), 2 German title (1973, 1974), 1 Intercontinental Cup (1976)
• Key Players: Beckenbauer, Muller, Honess, Rummenigge, Maier, Paul Breitner
• Key Players age average: 23.3

Ajax 1970-73

• Honours: 3 European Cup (1971, 1972, 1973), 3 Eredivisie (1970, 1972, 1973), 3 KNVB Cup (1970, 1971, 1972), 1 Intercontinental Cup (1972)
• Key Players: Cruyff, Neeskens, Haan, Krol
• Key Players age average: 21.7

Real Madrid 1955-1960

• Honours: 5 European Cups (1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960), 3 La Liga titles (1955, 1957, 1958), 1 Intercontinental Cup (1960)
• Key Players: Di Stefano, Puskas, Kopa, Gento, Santamaria
• Key players age average: 25.6

Djokovic, Del Potro and Serena into Wimbledon 3rd round

Men’s Results (2nd round): 
Novak Djokovic (Serbia) beat Bobby Reynolds (U.S.) 7-6(2) 6-3 6-1
Juan Martin Del Potro (Argentina) beat Jesse Levine (Canada) 6-2 7-6(7) 6-3
Tomas Berdych (Czech Republic) beat Daniel Brands (Germany) 7-6(6) 6-4 6-2
Richard Gasquet (France) beat Go Soeda (Japan) 6-0 6-3 6-7(5) 6-3

Kei Nishikori (Japan) beat Leonardo Mayer (Argentina) 7-6(5) 6-4 6-2

Igor Sijsling (Netherlands) beat Milos Raonic (Canada) 7-5 6-4 7-6(4)
Kevin Anderson (South Africa) beat Michal Przysiezny (Poland) 6-4 7-6(2) 6-4
Andreas Seppi (Italy) beat Michael Llodra (France) 7-5 (M Llodra retired)
Bernard Tomic (Australia) beat James Blake (U.S.) 6-3 6-4 7-5
Ivan Dodig (Croatia) beat Denis Kudla (U.S.) 6-1 7-6(4) 7-5
Feliciano Lopez (Spain) beat Paul-Henri Mathieu (France) 6-3 5-1 (PH Mathieu retired)


Women’s Results (2nd round): 
Serena Williams (US) beat Caroline Garcia (France) 6-3 6-2
Li Na (China) beat Simona Halep (Romania) 6-2 1-6 6-0
Roberta Vinci (Italy) beat Jana Cepelova (Slovakia) 6-1 4-6 9-7
Samantha Stosur (Australia) beat Olga Puchkova (Russia) 6-2 6-2
Dominika Cibulkova (Slovakia) beat Maria Teresa Torro (Spain) 6-0 6-1
Sabine Lisicki (Germany) beat Elena Vesnina (Russia) 6-3 6-1
Klara Zakopalova (Czech Republic) beat Annika Beck (Germany) 7-6(5) 6-3
Madison Keys (US) beat Mona Barthel (Germany) 6-4 6-2
Petra Martic (Croatia) beat Karolina Pliskova (Czech Republic) 7-6(7) 6-1
Marina Erakovic (New Zealand) beat Peng Shuai (China) 7-6(6) 6-2
Tsvetana Pironkova (Bulgaria) beat Barbora Zahlavova Strycova (Czech Republic) 7-5 6-3
Kimiko Date-Krumm (Japan) beat Alexandra Kadantu (Romania) 6-4 7-5

Spain won on penalties to reach Confederations Cup final

Spain beat Italy 7-6 in penalties shootout to book their place in the Confederations Cup final against hosts Brazil.

Real Madrid sign Isco on five-year deal

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Real Madrid have announced on their official website that they have signed Malaga and Spain U21 star Isco on a five-year deal.

The 2012 Golden Boy winner will undergo a medical on Wednesday 3 July and will be officially welcomed at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium.

"Real Madrid welcome one of Spanish football’s best players into its new project. Francisco Roman Alarcon, Isco (21/04/1992, Benalmadena, Malaga), will play at the Bernabeu for the next five seasons" a statement on the club's website reads.

source: http://www.realmadrid.com/cs/Satellite/en/Actualidad_Primer_Equipo_en/1330153497976/noticia/Noticia/Isco,_new_Real_Madrid_player.htm

Carlos Tevez joins Juventus

image source: www.breakingnews.ie

Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez has signed a three year contract with Serie A champions Juventus for a deal worth 18 million euros.

The Argentina international, 29, will wear the number 10 shirt that was occupied for years by Italian legend  Alessandro Del Piero.

El Apache who scored 74 goals for Manchester City in 148 appearances told Sky Sport Italia: "I'm really happy to be here at Juve, It's a really big satisfaction for me. I will tell the rest in the press conference - but Juventus wanted me more than Milan."

Brazil reach Confederations Cup final after win over Uruguay

image source: www.informationng.com

Brazil won 2-1 over Uruguay to reach Confederations Cup final where they will meet the winner from tomorrow's game between Spain and Italy.

A late header from Paulinho put Brazil in Confederations Cup final after a 2-1 win over Uruguay.

Diego Forlan missed from the spot after 14 minutes, Fred then put Brazil in-front four minutes before half-time, but Edinson Cavani equalised for La Celeste three minutes into the second half.

Paulinho scored the winner for Brazil in the minute 86 after Neymar cross from the corner kick to ensure that Brazil will be in the Confederations Cup final for the third time in succession.

Result:
Brazil 2 (Fred 41, Paulinho 86)   Uruguay 1 (Cavani 48).

Federer, Tsonga, Sharapova and Azarenka out of Wimbledon

image source: www.sportinglife.com

Defending champion and third seeded Roger Federer was stunned by world number 116 Ukrainian Sergiy Stakhovsky when he was beaten 7-6 6-7 5-7 7-6.

Stakhovsky who has never reached the third round at the All England Club was unstoppable at the serve with 17 aces and 83 out of 109 points won at 1st serve. The Ukrainian also won an incredible 61 from 96 Net points.

Federer's loss means that the 17-time Grand Slam champion will slip to number five for the first time since 2002 below Ferrer and Nadal and might see himself as 6th seed shall Tomas Berdych reach the final, it also means that his record of 36 consecutive quarterfinals in Grand Slam tournaments had come to an end.

In another upset, former Wimbledon champion Maria Sharapova took an early exit after losing to qualifier Michelle Larcher de Brito 6-3 6-4.

Also on the same day, Victoria Azarenka, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Marin Cilic, Radek Stepanek, Steve Darcis, and John Isner were all forced to retire due to injuries.

Carlo Ancelotti in numbers

image source: www.click-sports.com

Real Madrid didn't give up on signing Carlo Ancelotti from PSG this summer, as he was finally announced yesterday the new boss of los merengues over the next three years. Their insistence on the Italian came from some outstanding numbers already in his pocket and also from his tactical way of playing that fits Madrid well.

Ancelotti likes to use the 4-3-3 formation with his teams, he used it with AC Milan (Rui Costa, Shevchenko and Inzaghi) , with Chelsea (Anelka, Drogba and Kalou), with PSG (Lavezzi, Ibrahimovic and Pastore) and that is what he will do when he manages Real Madrid with Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema and Ozil (unless they succeed to sign Gareth Bale, Ozil will be back as a midfielder).

His winning percentage has actually increased from one club to another. In 1995, with Reggiana it was  41.46% and it ended with PSG at 63.64%, as a summary here are Carletto's most important numbers:


Coaching Journey:

• 1992-1995: Italy's Assistant Coach
• 1995-1996: Reggiana (Serie B)
• 1996-1998: Parma (Serie A)
• 1999-2001: Juventus (Serie A)
• 2001-2009: AC Milan (Serie A)
• 2009-2011: Chelsea (Premier League)
• 2011-2013: Paris Saint-Germain (Ligue 1)
• 2013- : Real Madrid (La Liga)

Trophies:

Juventus:

• 2 Intertoto Cup: 1999, 2000

Milan:

• 1 Serie A: 2003–04
• 1 Coppa Italia: 2002–03
• 1 Supercoppa Italiana: 2004
• 2 UEFA Champions League: 2002–03, 2006–07
• 2 UEFA Super Cup: 2003, 2007
• 1 FIFA Club World Cup: 2007

Chelsea:

• 1 Premier League: 2009–10
• 1 FA Cup: 2009–10
• 1 FA Community Shield: 2009

Paris Saint-Germain:

• 1 Ligue 1: 2012–13

Individual Trophies:

• 1 UEFA Manager of the Year: 2002–03
• 2 Serie A Coach of the Year: 2001, 2004
• 2 Albo Panchina d'Oro: 2002–03, 2003–04
• 1 IFFHS World's Best Club Coach: 2007
• 1 Ligue 1 Manager of the Year: 2012–13
• 1 World Soccer Magazine Manager of the Year: 2003
• 4 Premier League Manager of the Month: November 2009, August 2010, March 2011, April 2011

Winning Percentage:

• Reggiana: 41.46%
• Parma: 48.28%
• Juventus: 55.26%
• AC Milan: 56.26%
• Chelsea: 61.47%
• Paris Saint-Germain: 63.64%

Statistics source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlo_Ancelotti

Ancelotti finally joins Real Madrid

image source: flickr.com

PSG boss Carlo Ancelotti has been appointed the new Manager at Real Madrid for a three-year deal, with formal French coach Laurent Blanc confirmed as his replacement at Parc des Princes.

The Itlaian is set to be presented at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium on Wednesday, June 26.

Real Madrid will pay PSG around four million euros for the one year left in Ancelotti's contract, according to the Spanish media.

Nadal sent packing in Wimbledon opener

image source: www.livetennisguide.com

Fifth seeded and two times Wimbledon champion Rafael Nadal was stunned by world number 135 Steve Darcis as he went down 7-6(4) 7-6(8) 6-3 in the first round.

This is the first time ever the Spaniard has exited a Grand Slam event in the first round, the loss also means that we will not have a mouth watering quarter final at Wimbledon between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

Earlier in the day Roger Federer advanced to Wimbledon's 2nd round as he dismantled Victor Hanescu of Romania 6-3, 6-2, 6-0 in a match lasting only 68 minutes.

Andy Murray advanced to round two at Wimbledon after a 6-4 6-3 6-2 win against German Benjamin Becker.

Spain, Uruguay are through to the Confederations Cup semis

Spain will play against Italy in the Confederations Cup semi-finals next Thursday, after they won 3-0 over Nigeria to top Group B, in a repeat of last year's UEFA Euro Final which Spain won 4-0.

Uruguay are also through as they finished second in Group B after hammering Tahiti 8-0 with a super hat-trick from Abel Hernandez.
La Celeste will meet the hosts Brazil in the first semi-final of the tournament on Wednesday night.
Luiz Suarez was on target twice to become Uruguay all-time leading scorer with 36 goals beating Diego Forlán's previous record of 34.

Results:
Group B
Spain 3 (Alba 3, 88, Torres 62) Nigeria 0
Uruguay 8 (Hernández 2’, 24’, 45’, 67’ (pen.), Pérez 27, Lodeiro 61’, Suarez 82’, 90), Tahiti 0

Confederations Cup - Brazil thrash Italy to top Group A

Neymar shines again with a stunning free-kick as Brazil put four past Italy to grab nine out of nine possible points in Group A.

Result:

Confederations Cup, Group A:
Italy 2 (Giaccherini 51, Chiellini 71) Brazil 4 (Dante 45+1, Neymar 55, Fred 67, 89)

More to follow. ..

Isco to join Real Madrid

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

According to Spanish reports, Malaga and Spain U21 star Isco will be joining Real Madrid this summer after the capital club and Malaga had reached an agreement over his signing.

AS newspaper suggested that the announcement of the five-year contract deal could come as early as next week, the transfer was sealed for a fee of 30 million euros with the possibility of Madrid loaning a player or two to Malaga as part of the deal. Isco was informed of the news by his father.

Zinedine Zidane, Real Madrid Director of Football, is believed to have insisted that president Florentino Perez makes the move to sign the Spanish young talent before any other club as Manchester City's new coach Manuel Pellegrini was very interested in signing his formal midfielder.

U20 World Cup - Deulofeu shines as Spain outclassed USA

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Barcelona youngster Gerard Deulofeu lead Spain to a crushing victory over USA in Turkey's U20 World Cup.

Five minutes after the kick-off Jesé scored the opener for Spain after Deulofeu's cross, The Barca star then scored a stunning curling shot from outside the box to give his team a 2-0 lead. 

Two minutes from half-time Jesé scored a third goal from close range to leave Spain 3-0 up before the break.

Gerard added a fourth goal in the minute 61 after dribbling the keeper and scoring from a tight angle, before USA pulls one back after 77 minutes.

Results:

Group A

France 3 (Kondogbia 65, Sanogo 68, Bahebeck 79) Ghana 1 (Boayake 85)

USA 1 (Gil 77) Spain 4 (Jese 5, 44, Deulofeu 42, 61)

Group B

Cuba 1 (Reyes 7) Korea Republic 2 (Kwon 51 Pen, Ryu 83) 

Nigeria 2 (Ajagun 57 67) Portugal 3 (Bruma 30, 69, Aladje 34)

Watch Highlights from Spain vs USA:

Wimbledon - Federer and Nadal could meet in Wimbledon quarters

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Wimbledon draws were revealed today as the grass-court Grand Slam will kick off on June 24, Seven-time champion Roger Federer could face Rafael Nadal in the quarterfinals which will be their earliest meeting in any Grand Slam.

Second seed Andy Murray will be also a potential semi-final opponent for either the Swiss Maestro or the Spainsh star.

Draws:

• Gentlemen's Singles
• Ladies' Singles

Centurion Forlan sinks Nigeria

Diego Forlan marked his 100th appearance for Uruguay with an unstoppable, first-time finish beating Vincent Enyeama at his near post. to see his side beat Nigeria 2-1 and put themselves in a strong position to qualify for the FIFA Confederations Cup semi-finals along with Spain.


La celeste took the lead by captain Diego Lugano from a cross by Forlan, before John Obi Mikel levelled with a fine goal from inside the box on his 50th Nigerian cap.


Result:
Uruguay 2 (Lugano 19, Forlan 51) Nigeria 1 (Mikel 37)

Miami Heat win second straight Finals crown

image source: bleacherreport.com

Miami Heat won their second straight NBA title with a 95-88 win over San Antonio Spurs in a decisive seventh game of the Finals.

King Lebron won his second successive NBA Finals MVP as he scored 37 points in leading the Miami Heat to the title against the Spurs on Thursday night.

James was 52 percent from the field (12 for 23) and hit 5 for 10 from 3-point range. He was a perfect 8 of 8 from the free-throw line. He also added 12 rebounds and four assists.


“Listen, for me, I can’t worry about what everybody says about me,” James said at the trophy presentation. “I’m LeBron James, from Akron, Ohio, from the inner-city. I’m not even supposed to be here. That’s enough.

“Every night I walk into the locker room I see a No. 6 with James on the back. I’m blessed. So what everyone says about me off the court, doesn’t matter. I don’t have any worries.”

Confederations Cup - Spain put 10 past Tahiti

Spain thrashed Tahiti by 10 goals in the Confederations Cup group stage to equal the record of New Zealand in 2004 as the heaviest ever defeat for minnows Tahiti.

Super hat-trick from Torres, hat-trick from David Villa,  a brace from Silva and a goal from Mata set a new record winning scoreline for this competition.

Result:
Spain 10 (Torres 5', 33', 57', 78', Villa 39', 49', 64', Silva 31', 89', Mata 66') Tahiti 0

Messi to face tax evasion charges in September

image source: www.guardian.co.uk/

Lionel Messi and his father Jorge have been charged with defrauding the Spanish tax authority of more than €4m (£3.4m) by loaning his image rights to third parties in tax havens such as Belize and Uruguay while formalising licence contracts in the United Kingdom and Switzerland.

The judge overseeing the complaint have told Europa Press that the court in Gava has ordered the player and his father to present themselves as defendants on Tuesday 17 September as defendants.

Source: http://as.com/diarioas/2013/06/20/english/1371732939_736940.html

Italy follows Brazil to Confederations Cup semis

Italy came from 2-0 down to win 4-3 over Japan in the most thrilling match of the tournament so far to reach the semis along with hosts Brazil.

The final match of the group between Brazil and Italy will decide who will top the group.

Japan were the better side almost all the game, and after scoring the equalizer (3 - 3), they wasted many chances to let Italy score the winning goal in the final moments.

Result:
Italy 4 (De Rossi 41, Uchida 50 og, Balotelli 52 pen, Giovinco 86) Japan 3 (Honda 21 pen, Kagawa 33, Okazaki 69)

More to follow...

Neymar stunner helps Brazil reach Confed semis

image source: www.informationng.com

Neymar scored a sensational Volley from just inside the box in the ninth minute after a poor clearance by the opposition defense as Brazil beat Mexico to reach Confederations Cup semi final.

Brazilian number 10 produced another incredible performance in the tournament and he was very annoying for the Mexican defenders the whole time, his efforts were rewarded early in the match when Dani Alves cross was headed away poorly by a defender but the ball falls out of the air and onto Neymar left foot, who lashes home a wonderful strike straight into the net.

The second half was mainly played in Mexico's half of the pitch as the new Barcelona forward outplayed the defenders with some amazing moves, where he also assisted Jô in the injury time after dribbling 2 players on the left of the box and squares for Jô, who taps into an empty net.

Result:
Group A
Brazil 2 (Neymar 9, Jô 90+3); Mexico 0.

Squads:
Brazil: Julio Cesar, Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, David Luiz, Marcelo; Luiz Gustavo, Paulinho, Oscar; Hulk, Neymar, Fred.
Subs: min 62 Oscar out Hernanes in, min 78 Hulk out Lucas Moura in, min 82 Fred out Jô in.

Mexico: Corona; Rodriguez, Salcido, Moreno, Torres, Mier, Flores, Torrado, Guardado, Giovani, Hernandez.
Subs: min 58 G. Flores out H. Herrera in, min 70 J. Torres out P. Barrera in.

Which teams are already in Brazil 2014?

image source: fifa.com

World Cup Qualification Policy:

The allocation of places for the 2014 Fifa World Cup Brazil was decided on March 3rd 2011, with the distribution of the 31 places (Brazil automatically qualifies for the tournament as host) which wasn't changed from that for the 2010 World Cup.
The tournament will be held between June 12 and July 13.

The distribution by confederation for the 2014 World Cup will be:

• AFC: (43 teams competing for 4 or 5 berths, playoff to determine exact number) 4 certain berths with 5th to play CONMEBOL's 5th place team in a home-and-away series to determine who will qualify.
• CAF: (52 teams competing for 5 berths)
• CONCACAF: (35 teams competing for 3 or 4 berths, with playoff to determine exact number) 3 certain berths with 4th to play OFC's winner in a home and away series to determine who will qualify for the finals.
• CONMEBOL: (9 teams competing for 4 or 5 berths, playoff to determine exact number) 4 certain berths with 5th to play AFC's 5th place team in a home-and-away series to determine who will qualify. In addition, Brazil automatically qualifies for the finals as host.
• OFC: (11 teams competing for 0 or 1 berth, playoff to determine exact number) Winner plays CONCACAF's 4th place team in a home and away series.
• UEFA: (53 teams competing for 13 berths.

Qualified Teams as of June 18:

1. Brazil: hosts
2. Japan: AFC Fourth Round Group B Winners
3. Australia: AFC Fourth Round Group B Runners-up
4. Iran: AFC Fourth Round Group A Winners
5. South Korea: AFC Fourth Round Group A Runners-up

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2014_FIFA_World_Cup_qualification

Thiago treble inspires Spain retain Under-21 crown

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Spain won their fourth UEFA European Under-21 Championship title and second in a row Thiago Alcantara scored a first-half hat-trick.
Result: Italy Under-21 2 (Immobile 10, Borini 80) Spain Under-21 4 (Thiago 6, 31, 38 pen, Isco 66 pen)

The final, which was between the two teams who featured in last year Euro 2012, had the same output as Spain scored four past Italy while the Azzurri managed to score only twice, Barcelona Midfielder Alcantara was on fire as he scored a hat-trick in the range of 32 minutes.

Spain and Italy had met twice in the competition final before– in 1986 and 1996 – where each team took the trophy home once winning it on penalties, Spain are now the second most winning nation with four titles one short from Italy.

Previous Winners:

• Italy: 5 (1992, 1994, 1996, 2000, 2004)
• Spain: 4 (1986, 1998, 2011, 2013)
• England: 2 (1982, 1984)
• Soviet Union: 2 (1980, 1990)
• Netherlands: 2 (2006, 2007)
• Yugoslavia: 1 (1978)
• France: 1 (1988)
• Czech Republic: 1 (2002)
• Germany: 1 (2009)

Latest summer transfer news

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Check out the latest transfer news/rumors as European bug guns target key signings in the summer transfer window:

• After Ronaldo's famous tweet "All the news about my renewal with Real Madrid are false.", French wealthy clubs Monaco and PSG are set to make world record £85m(100 million euros) bid for Real Madrid's star, while Manchester United are relying on Ferguson to sign the Portuguese.
• Carlo Ancelotti will be announced as Real Madrid's new Boss in a couple of days, as he hopes that PSG and Real will sign the documents which free him from his duties with the French champions on Monday.
• Los Blancos are weighing up a world-record £85 million(100 million euros) bid for Tottenham's Gareth Bale, but they have now a competitor for the Welsh superstar as Manchester United are putting him as 'Plan b' in case negotiations with Ronaldo fail.
• Barçelona are ready to pay some money on centre-backs as they are hoping to sign one of the two Brazilians Thiago Silva or David Luiz.
• Liverpool striker Luiz Suarez is said to be the preferred choice to replace Higuaín in the Madrid attack, as the Argentinian is probably leaving the Bernabeu castle.
• According to his mother, Napoli's star striker Edinson Cavani is in talks with Real Madrid and Manchester City
• Spanish youngster and Malaga's Attacking midfielder Isco will decide his future after European Under-21 Championship as he is believed to have caught the attention of Real Madrid and Manchester City.
• Barcelona's Cesc Fabregas and David Villa and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney are all on Arsene Wenger's radar, as the three stars are set to leave their clubs this summer.

Spain, Italy win first matches at Confederations Cup

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

The world and European champions raced into a two-goal lead after just 32 minutes as they monopolized possession in the opening minutes, however, they couldn't extend their lead in the second half although they played some impressive football.

Luis Suarez scored an incredible free-kick two minutes from full-time, but it was too little too late for La celeste.

Italy won with the same result over Mexico in a much more competitive game.
Andrea Pirlo, who was celebrating his 100th Azzurri appearance scored a stunning free-kick after 27 minutes, but Manchester United striker Chicharito scored the equaliser from the penalty spot seven minutes later.

Mario Balotelli saved the day for Italy 12 minutes from full-time with a brilliant finish to outmuscle Rodriguez from deep inside the area.


Results:

Group A
Mexico 1-2 Italy (Hernandez 34 |  Pirlo 27’, Balotelli 78’)
Group B
Spain 2-1 Uruguay (Pedro 20’, Soldado 32 |  Suarez ‘88’)

Neymar shines as Brazil beat Japan in Confederations Cup opener

Defending champions Brazil opened the Confederations Cup in style with a 3-0 win over Japan. A brilliant third minute half volley from new Barcelona forward Neymar set Brazil on their way before Paulinho added a second in the 48th minute, then substitute Jo completed the scoring in stoppage time.

Result:
Group A
Brazil 3-0 Japan (Neymar 3’, Paulinho 48’, Jo 90+3’).

Squads:
Brazil: Julio César; Daniel Alves, Thiago Silva, David Luiz, Marcelo; Luiz Gustavo, Paulinho, Oscar; Hulk, Neymar and Fred.
Subs: min 73 Neymar out Lucas Moura in, min 74 Hulk out Hernanes in, min 80 Fred out Jô in.
Coach: Luiz Felipe Scolari (BRA).

Japan: Kawashima; Uchida, Yoshida, Konno, Nagamoto; Endo, Hasebe, Honda, Kiyotake, Kagawa and Okazaki.
Subs: min 50 Kiyotake out Maeda in, min 77 Endo out Hosogai in, min 87 Honda out Inui in.
Coach: Alberto Zaccheroni (ITA).

Referee: Pedro Proença (POR).

Messi overtakes Maradona record with hat-trick

image source: independent.co.uk

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in Friday's 4-0 international friendly win over Guatemala to take his tally of international goals to 35, one more than Diego Maradona's total and put him level with Hernán Crespo as Argentina second highest scorer but is still 21 behind the legendary Gabriel Batistuta.

However, Leo insisted after the game that achieving individual records are not his priority.

"Having overtaken Maradona is not important. The main thing was to end this friendly well as a team, which isn't easy ahead of the holidays," he told TyC Sports when asked about overtaking Maradona's tally.

Manuel Pellegrini appointed Manchester City manager

image source: blogspot.com

Manchester City have confirmed  that Manuel Pellegrini is the club's new manager on a three-year deal starting June 24th.

The Chilean will replace Roberto Mancini who was sacked on 13 May after losing the FA Cup final against Wigan, is considered a very experienced manager especially in the Champions League having guided Villarreal to the competition semi-finals and Malaga to the last eight.

Pellegrini  said about his appointment: “I am delighted to accept this hugely exciting opportunity. The Club has a clear vision for success both on and off the pitch and I am committed to making a significant contribution."

"Everything is in place for Manchester City to continue to be successful and I am excited to be able to work with such a talented squad, the Executive team and the Board to deliver for fans who are renowned for their steadfast support.”, he added.

Man City Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak also Commented on the appointment: "Manuel is a hugely experienced and successful manager with a proven track record."

Ancelotti edging closer to Real

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

According to French newspaper 'Le Parisien', Carlo Ancelotti could be hours away from leaving Parc des Princes and edging closer to Real Madrid.

'Le Parisien' has reported that Paris St-Germain's  president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and football director Leonardo have failed to convince the Italian to stay with the club and they eventually accepted his request to leave the Parc des Princes, as Ancelotti is determined to take over at Real Madrid, despite the one year left on his contract.

‘L’Equipe’, the French sports newspaper, published that PSG are negotiating with Swansea manager Michael Laudrup, and that despite his contract that keeps him with the English club until 2015, Laudrup will not say no to French champions.

Messi responds to accusations

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Hours after the Spanish tax authorities had accused Leo Messi and his father Jorge of defrauding the government for more than €4 million in between 2007 and 2009, the Argentinian captain released the following statement on his Facebook page in response to the allegations

"We have just known through the media about the claim filed by the Spanish tax authorities. We are surprised about those news, because we have never committed any infringement. We have always fulfilled all our tax obligations, following the advices of our Tax Consultants who will take care of clarifying this situation."

Leo's father told AS that he as well was surprised with the accusations:

"This is all a mistake, you need to speak to the tax and legal specialists, and they will make everything clear. I have already spoken to our lawyers and told them to sort it out, but I don't understand anything about what has happened. I don't deal with these matters, I am a resident of Argentina."

"I haven't spoken with my son, I don't have to, because it is all a mistake. Why would I want to worry him?", he added.

Mourinho wasn't a failure at Madrid afterall

image source: inserbia.info

Jose Mourinho left Real Madrid this season without any major trophy added to his or Real Madrid's name, he didn't win the Champions League with Los Blancos in three occasions, he only won one La Liga title and one Copa del Rey, but is he considered a failure for Real Madrid?

Well, for The 'Special One' it might be a disappointing period as he usually achieves much more with the clubs he manages, but for Real Madrid it was definitely not a failure and here is why:

• They reached the Champions League semi-final three consecutive times with Mou, the last time Real managed to reach the semi-final was back in 2002/03
• They won La Liga for the first time in 2011–12 since 2007–08, as Barcelona dominated the league from 2008 till 2011
• In 2011, Madrid won first Copa del Rey in 18 years
• Third highest winning rate in Real Madrid history, at 72.67%
• Most league goals scored in a season: 121 goals in 2011–12 season
• Most points in a season overall: 100 (87.72% of points) in 2011–12 season (Barcelona matched this record in 2012-2013)
• After losing 5-0 in the first El Clasico and struggling against Barcelona for the first 10 games where he won only one in 20/04/2011 at the Copa del Rey final, Mou was impressive against the Catalans in the last eight matches, where he won four times including two at the Camp Nou, and lost only one time

In addition to all the above numbers and facts, the Portuguese left his mark on Real's formation, where he adopted the 4-2-3-1 which was the key behind Madrid's speed in counter attacks and solid defensive midfield with Khedira and Alonso getting support from Ronaldo, Ozil and Di Maria.

Mourinho also worked on a very important factor with Real Madrid, the Stamina, which again was a huge advantage against some teams and specially against Barcelona where it clearly gave them the upper hand in the last minutes of some games like the 2011 Copa del Rey final when Ronaldo scored in the minute 103 (a.e.t.).

So in terms of trophies, The 'Special One' might be questioned, but in other aspects he was definitely a success at the Bernabéu.

2013 NBA Finals schedule and scores

2013 NBA Finals schedule, scores: Miami Heat vs. San Antonio Spurs

image source: flicker.com

 

Date	Time	At	Score	Series
Thu. June 6	9 ET	Miami	92-88, San Antonio	San Antonio leads 1-0
Sun. June 9	8 ET	Miami	103-84, Miami	Series tied 1-1
Tues. June 11	9 ET	San Antonio	113-77, San Antonio	San Antonio leads 2-1
Thu. June 13	9 ET	San Antonio	109-93, Miami	Series tied 2-2
Sun. June 16	8 ET	San Antonio	114-104, San Antonio	San Antonio leads 3-2
Tues. June 18	9 ET	Miami	103-100, Miami	Series tied 3-3
Thu. June 20	9 ET	Miami	--	--

Messi gave green light for Neymar signing

image source: commons.wikimedia.org

Barcelona president Sandro Rosell knew that signing Neymar will cost him a fortune so he wanted to know before doing anything what Lionel Messi thought about signing the young Brazilian, and how might he react about having a competitor in the team.

Messi however, was excited about the deal and he encouraged the club to go for it, as he understands that Barcelona  need another goal scorer, one that can bring new blood to the team and lift some weight from Messi's shoulders.

What was more interesting about the story,  is that Barca sat down with Neymar as well and told him that Messi would still be the boss and the leader for the team, Neymar also reacted positively and told his new club that he got no problem with this and he will be honored to play alongside the best player in the world.

Nadal wins record eighth French Open title

image source: rolandgarros.com

Rafael Nadal beats his countryman David Ferrer in straight sets to win eighth Roland Garros title in nine years to become the first man in history to win any grand slam eight times.

With this victory, Rafa also became the most successful player ever at Roland Garros, with 59 victories and just one loss to his name in nine years, the final wasn't as hard as the 5 setter semifinal for the younger Spaniard as he roared to 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 victory in two hours and 16 minutes.

Ironically Nadal will fall from number four to number five when the new world rankings are released on Monday, and more ironically he will lose it to his compatriot David Ferrer.

Serena takes 16th Grand Slam title

image source: rolandgarros.com

World number one Serena Williams won her first French Open title since 2002 and her 16th grand slam when she beat defending champion Maria Sharapova in straight sets after one hour and 46 minutes .

The Russian second seed had not beaten her American opponent since 2004 and she couldn't do better today as the world Number one extended her career-best winning streak to 31 matches.

Sharapova's defeat also means that she will lose her world number two ranking to Victoria Azarenka when the new rankings are released next Monday on June 10.

World Cup Qualifications: All the results

Here are all the results from this busy day of World Cup Qualifications.

*Score at end of game (Score at half time)

Date & Time	Place	Match
09/06/13 18:00	Bamako	Mali 1:1 (0:1) Rwanda
09/06/13 17:00	Conakry	Guinea 6:1 (3:1) Mozambique
09/06/13 16:00	Niamey	Niger 0:1 (0:0) Burkina Faso
09/06/13 16:00	Porto Novo	Benin 1:3 (1:1) Algeria
09/06/13 15:30	Lome	Togo 2:0 (1:0) Cameroon
09/06/13 15:00	Harare	Zimbabwe 2:4 (1:2) Egypt
08/06/13 21:00	Marrakesh	Morocco 2:1 (1:0) Tanzania
08/06/13 17:30	Geneva	Switzerland 1:0 (0:0) Cyprus
08/06/13 16:30	Freetown	Sierra Leone 2:2 (1:0) Tunisia
08/06/13 16:30	Praia	Cape Verde Islands 2:1 (1:0) Equatorial Guinea
08/06/13 16:30	Bakau	Gambia 0:3 (0:1) Ivory Coast
08/06/13 16:00	Luanda	Angola 1:1 (0:1) Senegal
08/06/13 16:00	Kampala	Uganda 1:0 (1:0) Liberia
08/06/13 15:30	Franceville	Gabon 0:0 Congo
08/06/13 15:00	Lobatse	Botswana 1:2 (0:2) Ethiopia
08/06/13 15:00	Yaounde	Central African Republic 0:3 (0:2) South Africa
08/06/13 15:00	Ndola	Zambia 4:0 (1:0) Lesotho
07/06/13 19:05	Buenos Aires	Argentina 0:0 Colombia
07/06/13 21:10	Lima	Peru 1:0 (1:0) Ecuador
07/06/13 21:45	Vilnius	Lithuania 0:1 (0:1) Greece
07/06/13 21:15	Chisinau	Moldova 1:1 (1:1) Poland
07/06/13 19:00	Baku	Azerbaijan 1:1 (0:0) Luxembourg
07/06/13 21:45	Brussels	Belgium 2:1 (1:0) Serbia
07/06/13 21:45	Prague	Czech Republic 0:0 Italy
07/06/13 21:45	Vienna	Austria 2:1 (2:0) Sweden
07/06/13 22:45	Lisbon	Portugal 1:0 (1:0) Russia
07/06/13 21:30	Tirana	Albania 1:1 (1:0) Norway
07/06/13 21:30	Podgorica	Montenegro 0:4 (0:0) Ukraine
07/06/13 21:15	Zagreb	Croatia 0:1 (0:1) Scotland
07/06/13 19:00	Yerevan	Armenia 0:1 (0:1) Malta
07/06/13 20:00	Omdurman	Sudan 1:3 (1:1) Ghana
07/06/13 21:00	Vaduz	Liechtenstein 1:1 (1:0) Slovakia
07/06/13 21:45	Dublin	Republic of Ireland 3:0 (1:0) Faroe Islands
07/06/13 19:30	Riga	Latvia 0:5 (0:0) Bosnia-Herzegovina
07/06/13 22:00	Reykjavik	Iceland 2:4 (2:2) Slovenia
07/06/13 19:00	Helsinki	Finland 1:0 (0:0) Belarus
07/06/13 18:30	Tripoli	Libya 0:0 Congo DR
07/06/13 23:00	La Paz	Bolivia 1:1 (0:0) Venezuela

Ferrer hammers Tsonga to reach first Grand Slam final

image source: rolandgarros.com

David Ferrer reached his first grand slam final at the age of 31 when he beat the last Frenchman Jo Wilford Tsonga 6-1 7-6(3) 6-2 to set up an all-Spanish French Open final with defending champion and seven-times winner Rafa Nadal.

Ferrer who is yet to drop a set in the tournament, was playing his sixth grand slam semis (second at Roland Garros after 2012) and was determined this time to make it to the finals after five past disappointment, and indeed he did thrashing the Frenchman in straight sets.

Nadal has a 19-4 record against Ferrer and had won their last 16 meetings on clay, so the underdog Spaniard must keep his momentum in the final and forget about these numbers.

Nadal wins marathon match against Djokovic to reach final

image source: rolandgarros.com

Defending champion Rafael Nadal edged world number one Novak Djokovic 6-4 3-6 6-1 6-7(3) 9-7 to reach French Open final for the eighth time in nine years.

Nadal seemed all set to close out the match in the fourth set when he was 6-5 up and serving for a place in the final, but Djokovic decided otherwise as he broke the Spaniard and won the tie-break (7-3) to take the match to a decisive fifth set.

The decider started with a break of serve for Nole as he went 4-2 up until Rafa broke back in the seventh game, and again in the 16th game to book his place in the final.

Messi given all-clear for Argentina

image source: independent.co.uk

Barcelona have announced on their official Twitter account that Lionel Messi is fit to play for his national team after receiving the all-clear from Barcelona's medical staff as Argentina aim to secure World Cup qualification in the coming two games.

Argentina will host Colombia on June 7 at Buenos Aires El Monumental stadium, and will play away to Ecuador at June 11 where four points will secure the qualification to Brazil 2014.

Leo Messi recibe el alta médica #fcblive
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) June 7, 2013

Serena destroys Errani to reach final

image source: rolandgarros.com

World number one Serena Williams will face defending champion and second seeded Maria Sharapova after she dismissed  last year runner-up Sara Errani in just 46 minutes.

In the sixth game, the top seed broke to love and inflict a bagel set on the fifth seed after just 21 minutes, second set wasn't that different as the Italian could only take one game to avoid a double-bagel, but Serena eventually closed out the match after 46 minutes to set up a final showdown with defending champion Maria Sharapova.

Sharapova reaches final after defeating Azarenka

image source cnn.com

Maria Sharapova will be part of Roland Garros final for the second time in succession to defend her title after edging Victoria Azarenka 6-1 2-6 6-4 to face either world number one Serena Williams or last year runner-up Sara Errani.

Russian second seed Sharapova served for the match leading 5-2 in the third set but couldn't convert four match points due to her poor first serve where she slaps down two double faults in the game and 11 overall, but at 5-4 she made no mistake serving out the match with an ace down the centre of the court 

Djokovic edges Haas to set up Nadal semi

image source: rolandgarros.com

World number one Novak Djokovic gained revenge from German 12th seed Tommy Haas who had beaten him in Madrid in March to setup a thrilling semi-final against defending and seven-times champion Rafael Nadal who hammered Swiss Stanislas Wawrinka 6-2 6-3 6-1 .

Novak and Rafa last meeting (on clay) wasn't a pleasant for the Spaniard as Djokovic busts Nadal's eight-year Monte Carlo reign, but beating the clay king over Roland Garros courts is different, it will need some spectacular performance as it happened only once in the last eight years when Swedish Robin Soderling stunned Nadal in 2009 fourth round.

Wednesday June 5 Results:

• Rafael Nadal (ESP) [3] def Stanislas Wawrinka (SUI) [9] 6-2 6-3 6-1
• Novak Djokovic (SRB) [1] def Tommy Haas (GER) [12] 6-3 7-6(5) 7-5

Sharapova to face Victoria Azarenka in French Open semis

image source: ajc.com

Maria Sharapova comeback from a bagel first set against Jankovic to book her place in a mouth watering semi-final against Victoria Azarenka who defeated Russian 12th seed Maria Kirilenko 7-6(3) 6-2.

Sharapova who was thrashed 6-0 against an inspiring Jankovic in the first set showed all her battling spirit and fight her way back in win the match 0-6 6-4 6-3  and book her place in the French Open semi-final.

World number one Serena Williams and last year finalist Sara Errani will be fighting for the other place in the finals when they meet tomorrow.

Roberto Martínez confirmed as the new Everton manager

image source: telegraph.co.uk

Everton have named former Wigan manager Roberto Martinez as their new manager, with the Spaniard signing a four-year contract.

Martinez, who won the FA cup this season with Wigan over Manchester city, has been the favorite to succeed Manchester United new Boss David Moyes after his 11 years in charge of the Toffees.

Ronaldo will not sign new deal with Madrid

image source: skysports.com

According to Portuguese newspaper 'A Bola', Cristiano Ronaldo will not be renewing his contract with Real Madrid which expires in 2015. The newspaper claimed that Ronaldo doesn't feel well treated by the Real Madrid board and that he is not happy.

The report also stated that the Portuguese star have been offered around €60 million deal if he becomes a free transfer when his contract with Los Blancos expires and signs for a certain powerful European club.

Tsonga sends Federer packing at Roland Garros

image source: rolandgarros.com

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga produced an incredible performance to beat 17-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer in straight sets on Tuesday to keep hopes of a home winner at the French Open for the first time in 30 years when Yannick Noah defeated Mats Wilander 6–2, 7–5, 7–6(7–3).

Sixth-seed Tsonga thrashed Federer 7-5, 6-3, 6-3 to reach his first semifinal in Paris and home nation’s first semi-finalist since Gael Monfils in 2008. The 28-year-old will clash with fourth seed David Ferrer the only other man in the tournament who has not dropped a set yet, for a place in Sunday’s final.

Ferrer who hammered come-back king Tommy Robredo 6-2, 6-1, 6-1 in just one hour and 35 minutes has a 2-1 lead over Tsonga, having won their only meeting on clay in Rome 2010.

Wednesday June 5 Schedule:

Court Philippe Chatrier 14:00 (Paris Time)

• Women's Singles - Quarterfinals: Jankovic (SRB) [18] vs Sharapova (RUS) [2]
•  Men's Singles - Quarterfinals: Rafael Nadal (ESP) [3] vs Stanislas Wawrinka (SUI) [9]

Court Suzanne Lenglen 14:00 (Paris Time)

• Women's Singles - Quarterfinals: Kirilenko (RUS) [12] vs Azarenka (BLR) [3]
• Men's Singles - Quarterfinals: Novak Djokovic (SRB) [1] vs Tommy Haas (GER) [12]

Jesus Navas signs for Manchester City

image source: skysports.com

According to Sevilla official website, Jesus Navas is now a Manchester City player on a five-year deal, who will now have to pass a medical before announcing the news officially.

The 27 years old Spain international, who spent 10 years at Sevilla will cost Manchester City around  €25 millions and €2.5 million of the five seasons which he will play for The Citizens.

"Jesus Navas will leave Sevilla for Manchester City this summer. The club had accepted an offer from the English club on Monday, taking into account the desire of the player, who will have to pass a medical now.", a statement on the Sevilla website confirmed.

"Navas wants to continue his successful sporting career in English football, more precisely at a club at which he can continue to develop as a footballer, as he has publicly stated on various occasions in recent months."

Miami to meet San Antonio in NBA finals

image source: nba.com

Miami Heat will be in the NBA finals for the third time in succession after beating Indiana Pacers 4-3 in the Eastern Conference final.

LeBron James, the league MVP scored 32 points and grabbed eight rebounds, while Dwyane Wade scored 21 points to help Miami outclass Pacers 99-76 in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference finals.

The NBA finals will will begin in Miami on Thursday June 6, where Miami will rest for three days, one week less than San Antonio who last played on May 27, when they completed the sweep of the Memphis Grizzlies in the Western Conference Finals.

The schedule for the NBA Finals is as follows:

1. Game 1 in Miami: Thursday, June 6, 9
2. Game 2 in Miami: Sunday, June 9, 8
3. Game 3 in San Antonio: Tuesday, June 11, 9
4. Game 4 in San Antonio: Thursday, June 13, 9
5. Game 5 in San Antonio: Sunday, June 16, 8
6. Game 6 in Miami: Tuesday, June 18, 9
7. Game 7 in Miami: Thursday, June 20, 9

Chelsea appoints Mourinho

image source: telegraph.co.uk

Chelsea have appointed Jose Mourinho as their first manager for the second time on a four-year contract.

The 50-year-old Portuguese was sacked in 2007 by Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, in 2008 he signed a three-year contract with Serie A club Internazionale, but left the Italian giants in 2010 after a spectacular season where Inter became the first Italian club to win the treble, He then signed with Real Madrid in 2010 where he wasn't much of a success.

 "I am delighted to welcome Jose back to Chelsea. His continued success, drive and ambition made him the outstanding candidate." Ron Gourlay, Chelsea Chief Executive said.

"It is our aim to keep the club moving forward to achieve greater success in the future and Jose is our number one choice as we believe he is the right manager to do just that. He was and remains a hugely popular figure at the club and everyone here looks forward to working with him again", Gourlay added.

On Monday 10 June, The Special One will be presented officially  in a press conference at Stamford Bridge.