The German playmaker returned from international duty with a minor knee injury but his manager expects to have him available for Saturday's game against the Canaries
Arsene Wenger is confident Mesut Ozil will recover from a knee injury sustained on international duty in time to face Norwich on Saturday.
Arsenal’s record signing was forced off during Germany’s win over Sweden with a minor knee injury and was initially considered a major doubt for Saturday’s clash.
However, as Goal recently revealed, the playmaker is now winning his battle to return to action and Wenger expects to have him available for selection.
"He is alright,” the Frenchman told the club’s official website. “He came back with a knock on the knee, but it was just a kick.
"We will have a test tomorrow Friday to see if he is fit enough for Saturday or not.
"When you have not played, there is always a little doubt, but not a major one."
There was more good news for the Gunners, as Wenger revealed both Santi Cazorla and Bacary Sagna are back in contention after respective ankle and hamstring injuries.
"Sagna is 80 per cent fit and he will have a test," he continued.
"Cazorla is available in training, but he is not match fit. It is just about competitiveness with him. There is a possibility both are in the squad for Saturday. I have not decided whether they will start or not."
Friday, October 18, 2013
Transfer Zone
* Falcao reaches verbal agreement with Madrid
Monaco striker Radamel Falcao and Real Madrid have reached a verbal agreement over a transfer next summer, just one year after his move to the principality from Atletico Madrid.
* Victor Valdes will play for Monaco in 2014
Valdes is virtually certain to play for Monaco from the 2014-15 season, once his contract with Barcelona expires. He will make the official announcement in January.
* Tottenham to make January move for Lavezzi
Totteham will attempt to sign PSG forward Ezequiel Lavezzi when the transfer window reopens in January. The Argentine is Spurs' No.1 target with Lavezzi keen for regular football ahead of the World Cup.
* Arsenal target €16m Herrmann
Arsenal are looking to make a move for Borussia Monchengladbach winger Patrick Herrmann, in whom they have had a long-standing interest. The Foals are looking for €16 million for the player, with Juventus and Spurs also interested
* Chelsea ready to swoop for Imbula
Chelsea are ready to swoop for Gianelli Imbula for January, but Olympique de Marseille will be demanding €30 million for his services.
* Dortmund lead Martinez chase
Dortmund are leading Chelsea and Real Madrid in the chase to sign Porto's Jackson Martinez, having already held negotiations with his club and are set to offer him a five-year deal.
* Chelsea line up Mangala
Having enlisted the services of Jose Mourinho's agent Jorge Mendes, Porto star Eliaquim Mangala could be on his way to Chelsea.
* Chelsea set Courtois price
Chelsea have demanded €24 million for goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who has impressed on loan at Atletico Madrid, with Barcelona interested in his signature next summer.
* Galatasaray to offer €15m for Nani
Galatasaray will offer Manchester United €15 million (£13m) for winger Nani in the January transfer window.
Monaco striker Radamel Falcao and Real Madrid have reached a verbal agreement over a transfer next summer, just one year after his move to the principality from Atletico Madrid.
* Victor Valdes will play for Monaco in 2014
Valdes is virtually certain to play for Monaco from the 2014-15 season, once his contract with Barcelona expires. He will make the official announcement in January.
* Tottenham to make January move for Lavezzi
Totteham will attempt to sign PSG forward Ezequiel Lavezzi when the transfer window reopens in January. The Argentine is Spurs' No.1 target with Lavezzi keen for regular football ahead of the World Cup.
* Arsenal target €16m Herrmann
Arsenal are looking to make a move for Borussia Monchengladbach winger Patrick Herrmann, in whom they have had a long-standing interest. The Foals are looking for €16 million for the player, with Juventus and Spurs also interested
* Chelsea ready to swoop for Imbula
Chelsea are ready to swoop for Gianelli Imbula for January, but Olympique de Marseille will be demanding €30 million for his services.
* Dortmund lead Martinez chase
Dortmund are leading Chelsea and Real Madrid in the chase to sign Porto's Jackson Martinez, having already held negotiations with his club and are set to offer him a five-year deal.
* Chelsea line up Mangala
Having enlisted the services of Jose Mourinho's agent Jorge Mendes, Porto star Eliaquim Mangala could be on his way to Chelsea.
* Chelsea set Courtois price
Chelsea have demanded €24 million for goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who has impressed on loan at Atletico Madrid, with Barcelona interested in his signature next summer.
* Galatasaray to offer €15m for Nani
Galatasaray will offer Manchester United €15 million (£13m) for winger Nani in the January transfer window.
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Barcelona 3-2 Sevilla: Last ditch Sanchez strike seals dramatic win.
Barcelona 3-2 Sevilla: Last ditch Sanchez strike seals dramatic win.
Goals from Daniel Alves and Lionel Messi were cancelled out by Ivan Rakitic and Coke's effort, before the Chilean's winner in stoppage time.
Barcelona sealed a 3-2 win over Sevilla in the most dramatic of fashions on Saturday with Alexis Sanchez's a stoppage time goal.
Dani Alves and Lionel Messi helped the Blaugrana into a cushioned lead but, with 10 minutes to go, Ivan Rakitic pulled a goal back for the visitors before Coke levelled with full time imminent.
Both sides pushed for a last ditch winner, with Unai Emery's men keen to crown a dream comeback, but it was the hosts who found it, with Messi's mazy run setting up Alexis to seal the three points.
Barca made just two changes from the team that picked up three points away to Valencia prior to the international matches courtesy of a Messi hat trick, with Cesc Fabregas and Pedro dropped in favour of Xavi and Cristian Tello.
Meanwhile, Sevilla, who went into the match without a league win this season, made four changes from their 2-2 home draw against Malaga as Javi Varas, Diego Perotti, Carlos Bacca and Bryan Rabello were replaced by Beto, Vitolo, Jairo Samperio and debutant Sebastian Cristoforo.
Emery’s team were on the back foot from the start and Neymar almost gave Barcelona the lead in the third minute as he shot across goal, but Beto tipped his effort around the post a recurring theme in the first 15 minutes.
Sevilla eventually grew as an attacking force, but at the other end of the pitch Neymar continued to wreak havoc. Visiting right-back Coke had no answer to the Brazilian’s close ball control and he set Tello up for two chances in quick succession, but Beto saved on both occasions.
For all their good defensive work, though, Sevilla could not keep Barcelona at bay until half time as Busquets crossed from deep and Alves arrived at the back post with a late burst to head home against his old club in the 36th minute.
After growing into the match again, Sevilla thought they had levelled in the 64th minute as Cala headed Rakitic’s corner past Victor Valdes, but the centre back was cruelly adjudged to have fouled Gerard Pique in the build-up.
Barcelona escaped that scare and Messi soon doubled their lead as he burst in front of Fernando Navarro and knocked the ball in from close range after Neymar's low cross.
Sevilla refused to lay down and Rakitic pulled one back with 10 minutes left as he fired low past Valdes after a magnificent run from Vitolo.
And just when Barcelona looked like they would hold on for the three points, Coke volleyed home Rakitic’s corner in stoppage-time as they seemed to have earned a point.
The drama, though, was far from over and Messi had other ideas as he raced to the byline and squared across the box, where Beto could only divert the ball into the path of a grateful Alexis to win it for Barca.
Goals from Daniel Alves and Lionel Messi were cancelled out by Ivan Rakitic and Coke's effort, before the Chilean's winner in stoppage time.
Barcelona sealed a 3-2 win over Sevilla in the most dramatic of fashions on Saturday with Alexis Sanchez's a stoppage time goal.
Dani Alves and Lionel Messi helped the Blaugrana into a cushioned lead but, with 10 minutes to go, Ivan Rakitic pulled a goal back for the visitors before Coke levelled with full time imminent.
Both sides pushed for a last ditch winner, with Unai Emery's men keen to crown a dream comeback, but it was the hosts who found it, with Messi's mazy run setting up Alexis to seal the three points.
Barca made just two changes from the team that picked up three points away to Valencia prior to the international matches courtesy of a Messi hat trick, with Cesc Fabregas and Pedro dropped in favour of Xavi and Cristian Tello.
Meanwhile, Sevilla, who went into the match without a league win this season, made four changes from their 2-2 home draw against Malaga as Javi Varas, Diego Perotti, Carlos Bacca and Bryan Rabello were replaced by Beto, Vitolo, Jairo Samperio and debutant Sebastian Cristoforo.
Emery’s team were on the back foot from the start and Neymar almost gave Barcelona the lead in the third minute as he shot across goal, but Beto tipped his effort around the post a recurring theme in the first 15 minutes.
Sevilla eventually grew as an attacking force, but at the other end of the pitch Neymar continued to wreak havoc. Visiting right-back Coke had no answer to the Brazilian’s close ball control and he set Tello up for two chances in quick succession, but Beto saved on both occasions.
For all their good defensive work, though, Sevilla could not keep Barcelona at bay until half time as Busquets crossed from deep and Alves arrived at the back post with a late burst to head home against his old club in the 36th minute.
After growing into the match again, Sevilla thought they had levelled in the 64th minute as Cala headed Rakitic’s corner past Victor Valdes, but the centre back was cruelly adjudged to have fouled Gerard Pique in the build-up.
Barcelona escaped that scare and Messi soon doubled their lead as he burst in front of Fernando Navarro and knocked the ball in from close range after Neymar's low cross.
Sevilla refused to lay down and Rakitic pulled one back with 10 minutes left as he fired low past Valdes after a magnificent run from Vitolo.
And just when Barcelona looked like they would hold on for the three points, Coke volleyed home Rakitic’s corner in stoppage-time as they seemed to have earned a point.
The drama, though, was far from over and Messi had other ideas as he raced to the byline and squared across the box, where Beto could only divert the ball into the path of a grateful Alexis to win it for Barca.
Manchester United 2-0 Crystal Palace: Van Persie & Rooney fire as Fellaini makes Old Trafford bow.
Manchester United 2-0 Crystal Palace: Van Persie & Rooney fire as Fellaini makes Old Trafford bow.
The Netherland international opened the scoring against the Eagles, whose manager, Ian Holloway, was serving a touchline ban, before the England striker struck a late free kick.
Manchester United recorded a comfortable 2-0 victory over 10 man Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon as David Moyes ended his wait for a career win at Old Trafford.
Robin van Persie's first half penalty, which saw Kagisho Dikgacoi sent off, set the Red Devils on their way before Wayne Rooney, sporting a bandage on his head, guaranteed the three points with a late free kick.
Moyes made four changes to the side that were beaten by Liverpool prior to the international break, with Rooney returning to the starting XI while new signing Marouane Fellaini was named on the bench.
Palace, whose manager Ian Holloway was serving the first of a two match touchline ban, made just one change to the team that beat Sunderland 3-1 in their last Premier League outing, with deadline day signing Adrian Mariappa replacing Joel Ward.
The hosts made the better start to proceedings and had the first chance to take the lead when Michael Carrick stung the palms of Julian Speroni with a long-range drive.
However, despite the clear gulf in quality, United were unable to exert any real dominance, with Holloway's men competing well in the middle of the park.
Predictably it was Van Persie who was on the end of the first clear opportunity of the game, but the Dutchman shot wide at the near post after good work from Patrice Evra.
The Netherlands international came close to atoning for that miss seven minutes before the break, the former Arsenal man crashing a vicious volley against the crossbar after he had shown superb control to collect a wonderful long ball from Rooney.
Yet it was Palace who could have headed into the break with the lead, Dwight Gayle shooting wide of the far post after displaying a great burst of pace to get past Rio Ferdinand down the left hand side.
But the Eagles suffered a devastating blow right before half-time, though, as Dikgacoi gave away a penalty for bringing down Ashley Young just inside the area.
The South African was dismissed by referee Jon Moss in the immediate aftermath, before Van Persie tucked the resulting spot kick into the bottom corner to give Moyes' side the lead.
United continued in the ascendancy early in the second half, Speroni producing a fine reaction save to deny Young after he had been put through by Anderson.
Young was at the heart of every United attack and he went close again 10 minutes into the second period, curling a shot wide from the edge of the area.
Palace offered nothing as an attacking force in the second period, and United were unfortunate not to add a second, Van Persie flashing a curling effort inches over the bar, before Speroni displayed yet more heroics to prevent Rooney from finding the net.
The south London club's fading resistance was broken for a second time 10 minutes before the final whistle, Rooney marking his return with a superb free kick that found the bottom corner to end any slim hopes Palace had of gaining a point.
The Netherland international opened the scoring against the Eagles, whose manager, Ian Holloway, was serving a touchline ban, before the England striker struck a late free kick.
Robin van Persie's first half penalty, which saw Kagisho Dikgacoi sent off, set the Red Devils on their way before Wayne Rooney, sporting a bandage on his head, guaranteed the three points with a late free kick.
Moyes made four changes to the side that were beaten by Liverpool prior to the international break, with Rooney returning to the starting XI while new signing Marouane Fellaini was named on the bench.
Palace, whose manager Ian Holloway was serving the first of a two match touchline ban, made just one change to the team that beat Sunderland 3-1 in their last Premier League outing, with deadline day signing Adrian Mariappa replacing Joel Ward.
The hosts made the better start to proceedings and had the first chance to take the lead when Michael Carrick stung the palms of Julian Speroni with a long-range drive.
However, despite the clear gulf in quality, United were unable to exert any real dominance, with Holloway's men competing well in the middle of the park.
Predictably it was Van Persie who was on the end of the first clear opportunity of the game, but the Dutchman shot wide at the near post after good work from Patrice Evra.
The Netherlands international came close to atoning for that miss seven minutes before the break, the former Arsenal man crashing a vicious volley against the crossbar after he had shown superb control to collect a wonderful long ball from Rooney.
Yet it was Palace who could have headed into the break with the lead, Dwight Gayle shooting wide of the far post after displaying a great burst of pace to get past Rio Ferdinand down the left hand side.
But the Eagles suffered a devastating blow right before half-time, though, as Dikgacoi gave away a penalty for bringing down Ashley Young just inside the area.
The South African was dismissed by referee Jon Moss in the immediate aftermath, before Van Persie tucked the resulting spot kick into the bottom corner to give Moyes' side the lead.
United continued in the ascendancy early in the second half, Speroni producing a fine reaction save to deny Young after he had been put through by Anderson.
Young was at the heart of every United attack and he went close again 10 minutes into the second period, curling a shot wide from the edge of the area.
Palace offered nothing as an attacking force in the second period, and United were unfortunate not to add a second, Van Persie flashing a curling effort inches over the bar, before Speroni displayed yet more heroics to prevent Rooney from finding the net.
The south London club's fading resistance was broken for a second time 10 minutes before the final whistle, Rooney marking his return with a superb free kick that found the bottom corner to end any slim hopes Palace had of gaining a point.
Tottenham 2-0 Norwich City: Sigurdsson double seals victory for Spurs.
Tottenham 2-0 Norwich City: Sigurdsson double seals victory for Spurs.
The hosts bounced back following their derby defeat to Arsenal with two goals from the Iceland international, while Christian Eriksen impressed on his debut for the hosts.
Tottenham recovered from their north London derby defeat to Arsenal as two goals from Gylfi Sigurdsson helped secure a 2-0 win over Norwich City.
The Iceland international gave Spurs a first half lead as he capitalised on a wonderful through pass from debutant Christian Eriksen before Paulinho crossed for the 24 year old to add his second after 49 minutes.
Norwich were without Ryan Bennett (knee) and long term absentee Elliot Bennett, but close-season signing Gary Hooper, still awaiting his debut due to a shin injury, made the bench.
Andre Villas Boas, meanwhile, handed a debut to Eriksen and named club-record signing Erik Lamela among his substitutes. Emmanuel Adebayor, Etienne Capoue and Aaron Lennon all missed out through injury.
Tottenham flew out of the blocks, creating two chances within the first four minutes and setting the tone for a dominant first-half display.
The hosts were yet to score from open play this season but first Sigurdsson and then Andros Townsend almost rectified this, both missing the target with shots from just outside the area.
Eriksen then had a good chance, jinking inside from the right and shooting low to draw a good save from Ruddy. Roberto Soldado's audacious back heel from the rebound was saved by a combination of Bassong and the post.
And ex Tottenham defender Bassong again came to Norwich's rescue minutes later. Moussa Dembele took out two defenders with a feint and cut-back to Soldado, but the Cameroon international blocked his goal bound effort.
A Tottenham goal looked inevitable, and so it proved in the 28th minute when Eriksen laid the ball into Sigurdsson's path as he burst into the area and the former Hoffenheim man finished coolly past Ruddy.
Norwich had not been in the game, but they had a half chance 34 minutes in through Ricky van Wolfswinkel. The Dutchman met Nathan Redmond's left-wing cross but was thwarted by a last ditch Danny Rose tackle.
Rose was involved at the other end shortly before the interval, but his first time strike at the back post soared well over.
Tottenham picked up where they left off after half time and were soon 2-0 up. Paulinho’s low cross from the right evaded Ruddy’s dive, presenting Sigurdsson with an open goal.
The midfielder came close to getting his hat trick on the hour mark, but Ruddy was equal to his rasping 20-yard drive.
Norwich were buckling under concerted Tottenham pressure and they had Michael Turner to thank for not conceding a third, as he made a fantastic intervention to deflect Townsend’s right wing cross over the bar, with Soldado lurking behind him.
Chris Hughton’s side finally had a chance of their own on 68 minutes, the ball breaking to Van Wolfswinkel in the area, but Rose foiled the former Sporting Lisbon striker with a good block.
Eriksen made way for Lewis Holtby in the 71st minute, bringing a standing ovation from the White Hart Lane crowd in appreciation of an impressive debut from the ex-Ajax playmaker.
There was controversy late on as Hugo Lloris left his area to make a punched clearance. The Norwich fans called for a red card but referee Lee Mason was lenient, only showing a yellow to the France international.
The hosts bounced back following their derby defeat to Arsenal with two goals from the Iceland international, while Christian Eriksen impressed on his debut for the hosts.
The Iceland international gave Spurs a first half lead as he capitalised on a wonderful through pass from debutant Christian Eriksen before Paulinho crossed for the 24 year old to add his second after 49 minutes.
Norwich were without Ryan Bennett (knee) and long term absentee Elliot Bennett, but close-season signing Gary Hooper, still awaiting his debut due to a shin injury, made the bench.
Andre Villas Boas, meanwhile, handed a debut to Eriksen and named club-record signing Erik Lamela among his substitutes. Emmanuel Adebayor, Etienne Capoue and Aaron Lennon all missed out through injury.
Tottenham flew out of the blocks, creating two chances within the first four minutes and setting the tone for a dominant first-half display.
The hosts were yet to score from open play this season but first Sigurdsson and then Andros Townsend almost rectified this, both missing the target with shots from just outside the area.
Eriksen then had a good chance, jinking inside from the right and shooting low to draw a good save from Ruddy. Roberto Soldado's audacious back heel from the rebound was saved by a combination of Bassong and the post.
And ex Tottenham defender Bassong again came to Norwich's rescue minutes later. Moussa Dembele took out two defenders with a feint and cut-back to Soldado, but the Cameroon international blocked his goal bound effort.
A Tottenham goal looked inevitable, and so it proved in the 28th minute when Eriksen laid the ball into Sigurdsson's path as he burst into the area and the former Hoffenheim man finished coolly past Ruddy.
Norwich had not been in the game, but they had a half chance 34 minutes in through Ricky van Wolfswinkel. The Dutchman met Nathan Redmond's left-wing cross but was thwarted by a last ditch Danny Rose tackle.
Rose was involved at the other end shortly before the interval, but his first time strike at the back post soared well over.
Tottenham picked up where they left off after half time and were soon 2-0 up. Paulinho’s low cross from the right evaded Ruddy’s dive, presenting Sigurdsson with an open goal.
The midfielder came close to getting his hat trick on the hour mark, but Ruddy was equal to his rasping 20-yard drive.
Norwich were buckling under concerted Tottenham pressure and they had Michael Turner to thank for not conceding a third, as he made a fantastic intervention to deflect Townsend’s right wing cross over the bar, with Soldado lurking behind him.
Chris Hughton’s side finally had a chance of their own on 68 minutes, the ball breaking to Van Wolfswinkel in the area, but Rose foiled the former Sporting Lisbon striker with a good block.
Eriksen made way for Lewis Holtby in the 71st minute, bringing a standing ovation from the White Hart Lane crowd in appreciation of an impressive debut from the ex-Ajax playmaker.
There was controversy late on as Hugo Lloris left his area to make a punched clearance. The Norwich fans called for a red card but referee Lee Mason was lenient, only showing a yellow to the France international.
Sunderland 1-3 Arsenal: Ramsey doubles up as Ozil impresses on debut.
Sunderland 1-3 Arsenal: Ramsey doubles up as Ozil impresses on debut
The Welsh captain netted twice while the Gunners' £40 million deadline day signing had a fine first start for Arsene Wenger's side as they showed resilience to beat the Black Cats.
Aaron Ramsey continued his excellent start the season as his double helped Arsenal to a 3-1 away win at Sunderland on Saturday.
The Welshman took centre stage after a Craig Gardner penalty had cancelled out Olivier Giroud's first-half opener.
Frenchman Giroud became only the eighth player to score in the opening four games of a Premier League campaign, and his goal at the Stadium of Light is the first time he has notched outside of London for the Gunners.
Mesut Ozil was particularly impressive on his debut following his move from Real Madrid and provided the assist for Giroud as Arsenal led at half-time before Gardner's leveller in the 48th minute.
But Arsene Wenger's side secured the points when Ramey volleyed home from Carl Jenkinson's centre before he added his second with 15 minutes remaining.
Arsenal handed a debut to deadline-day signing Ozil, while Santi Cazorla missed the trip to Wearside. Per Mertesacker was also absent through illness, so Bacary Sagna moved to centre back.
Paolo Di Canio handed a debut to Ki Sung Yueng after his loan move from Swansea City, while Steven Fletcher started a game for the first time in six months after scoring on his return from injury as a substitute at Crystal Palace before the international break.
Arsenal dominated possession in the opening exchanges and it took just 10 minutes for Ozil to make an impact on the Premier League.
The Germany international latched on to a punt from Kieran Gibbs down the left flank. He showed a neat first touch before squaring for Giroud to calmly slot home at the near post.
Arsenal's celebrations were almost curtailed instantaneously as Modibo Diakite got above Giroud to crash a header against the crossbar from a corner.
But Arsenal continued to look livelier and Ozil and Theo Walcott twice combined well down the right, but the England international was thwarted on both occasions by smart saves from Kieren Westwood.
And Walcott made it a hat trick of missed opportunities three minutes before half-time. Jack Wilshere surged through and passed to Walcott, whose first touch saw the ball flick into the air and he headed the effort wide.
Sunderland needed a quick start and drew level three minutes after the restart.
Adam Johnson plucked the ball out of the air and drove at Laurent Koscielny who slid through the winger leaving referee Martin Atkinson no choice but to award the penalty. Gardner who had only just come on as a substitute dispatched the ball hard and low into the right corner.
And the home side thought they had the lead in the 59th minute when Fletcher tapped home from Johnson's drilled cross but he was denied by the offside flag.
It was Arsenal, though, who finally grabbed the goal their play warranted in the 68th minute.
Jenkinson's cross from the right was met by a controlled volley from Ramsey who fired into the far corner.
There was a huge flash point shortly afterwards when Jozy Altidore broke free of Sagna's challenge and squirmed an effort under Wojciech Szczesny with goal line technology confirming the ball had crossed the line.
However, the referee had already blown for a free kick in favour of the Sunderland forward and the goal was ruled out.
And their sense of misfortune was confirmed with 15 minutes remaining when Ramsey grabbed his second of the game.
A neat move saw Ozil find Giroud as he flicked a first time pass to the Welshman, who calmly slotted beyond Westwood.
And Di Canio's afternoon got worse in injury time when he was sent to the stands for arguing with the fourth official.
The Welsh captain netted twice while the Gunners' £40 million deadline day signing had a fine first start for Arsene Wenger's side as they showed resilience to beat the Black Cats.
The Welshman took centre stage after a Craig Gardner penalty had cancelled out Olivier Giroud's first-half opener.
Frenchman Giroud became only the eighth player to score in the opening four games of a Premier League campaign, and his goal at the Stadium of Light is the first time he has notched outside of London for the Gunners.
Mesut Ozil was particularly impressive on his debut following his move from Real Madrid and provided the assist for Giroud as Arsenal led at half-time before Gardner's leveller in the 48th minute.
But Arsene Wenger's side secured the points when Ramey volleyed home from Carl Jenkinson's centre before he added his second with 15 minutes remaining.
Arsenal handed a debut to deadline-day signing Ozil, while Santi Cazorla missed the trip to Wearside. Per Mertesacker was also absent through illness, so Bacary Sagna moved to centre back.
Paolo Di Canio handed a debut to Ki Sung Yueng after his loan move from Swansea City, while Steven Fletcher started a game for the first time in six months after scoring on his return from injury as a substitute at Crystal Palace before the international break.
Arsenal dominated possession in the opening exchanges and it took just 10 minutes for Ozil to make an impact on the Premier League.
The Germany international latched on to a punt from Kieran Gibbs down the left flank. He showed a neat first touch before squaring for Giroud to calmly slot home at the near post.
Arsenal's celebrations were almost curtailed instantaneously as Modibo Diakite got above Giroud to crash a header against the crossbar from a corner.
But Arsenal continued to look livelier and Ozil and Theo Walcott twice combined well down the right, but the England international was thwarted on both occasions by smart saves from Kieren Westwood.
And Walcott made it a hat trick of missed opportunities three minutes before half-time. Jack Wilshere surged through and passed to Walcott, whose first touch saw the ball flick into the air and he headed the effort wide.
Sunderland needed a quick start and drew level three minutes after the restart.
Adam Johnson plucked the ball out of the air and drove at Laurent Koscielny who slid through the winger leaving referee Martin Atkinson no choice but to award the penalty. Gardner who had only just come on as a substitute dispatched the ball hard and low into the right corner.
And the home side thought they had the lead in the 59th minute when Fletcher tapped home from Johnson's drilled cross but he was denied by the offside flag.
It was Arsenal, though, who finally grabbed the goal their play warranted in the 68th minute.
Jenkinson's cross from the right was met by a controlled volley from Ramsey who fired into the far corner.
There was a huge flash point shortly afterwards when Jozy Altidore broke free of Sagna's challenge and squirmed an effort under Wojciech Szczesny with goal line technology confirming the ball had crossed the line.
However, the referee had already blown for a free kick in favour of the Sunderland forward and the goal was ruled out.
And their sense of misfortune was confirmed with 15 minutes remaining when Ramsey grabbed his second of the game.
A neat move saw Ozil find Giroud as he flicked a first time pass to the Welshman, who calmly slotted beyond Westwood.
And Di Canio's afternoon got worse in injury time when he was sent to the stands for arguing with the fourth official.
Bayern Munich 2-0 Hannover: Mandzukic & Ribery get Guardiola's troops back on track.
Bayern Munich 2-0 Hannover: Mandzukic & Ribery get Guardiola's troops back on track.
The Bavarians recovered from dropping points in their last match with two second half goals from the Croatian and French attackers.
A second half double from Franck Ribery and Mario Mandzukic saw Bayern Munich defeat Hannover 2-0 on Saturday.
The visitors held the reigning Bundesliga champions at half time, leaving die Roten fans worrying they might drop points for the second matchday in a row after their 1-1 draw at Freiburg, but the Bavarians notched twice not long after the break to secure the win.
The hosts unsurprisingly started the match brightly and Hannover struggled to maintain possession in their opponents' half.
Ribery tested Ron Robert Zieler within the first five minutes as he fired in a low shot from the edge of the area, before Thomas Muller skipped past the goalkeeper but could only hit the side netting from a narrow angle.
After a nervous opening 10 minutes, Mirko Slomka's side did eventually settle, but they nearly orchestrated their own downfall in the 19th minute as Leon Andreasen connected with a Muller pass and almost put the ball over his own goalkeeper from outside the area, but Zieler spared him from humiliation as he clawed the ball away from under the crossbar.
The visitors grew in confidence as the first half went on and Marcelo almost handed them the lead following Artur Sobiech's front post flick on from a corner, while Ya Konan saw a late effort from outside of the area deflected on to the post as the match remained goalless at the break, despite intense pressure from Bayern.
Hannover's increasing confidence was again in evidence at the beginning of the second half as Bittencourt saw a volley from a narrow angle saved after Jerome Boateng's poor headed clearance, but Bayern ensured that their hosts' good work would be for nothing as they took a 51st minute lead.
Robben showed excellent vision to pick out Kroos in the left side of the area and after shaping to play the ball across goal, the German cut it back for Mandzukic, who stroked it low past the helpless Zieler.
Bayern effectively secured the victory 13 minutes later as Ribery fed Robben and although Zieler denied the Netherlands international, he could not keep out the Frenchman's effort on the rebound.
With just over 10 minutes left of the contest, Robben almost added his own name to the score sheet as he controlled Ribery's pass after a marvellous run in from the left, but Sebastien Pocognoli made a vital block in front of Zieler to ensure that the match ended 2-0.
The Bavarians recovered from dropping points in their last match with two second half goals from the Croatian and French attackers.
The visitors held the reigning Bundesliga champions at half time, leaving die Roten fans worrying they might drop points for the second matchday in a row after their 1-1 draw at Freiburg, but the Bavarians notched twice not long after the break to secure the win.
The hosts unsurprisingly started the match brightly and Hannover struggled to maintain possession in their opponents' half.
Ribery tested Ron Robert Zieler within the first five minutes as he fired in a low shot from the edge of the area, before Thomas Muller skipped past the goalkeeper but could only hit the side netting from a narrow angle.
After a nervous opening 10 minutes, Mirko Slomka's side did eventually settle, but they nearly orchestrated their own downfall in the 19th minute as Leon Andreasen connected with a Muller pass and almost put the ball over his own goalkeeper from outside the area, but Zieler spared him from humiliation as he clawed the ball away from under the crossbar.
The visitors grew in confidence as the first half went on and Marcelo almost handed them the lead following Artur Sobiech's front post flick on from a corner, while Ya Konan saw a late effort from outside of the area deflected on to the post as the match remained goalless at the break, despite intense pressure from Bayern.
Hannover's increasing confidence was again in evidence at the beginning of the second half as Bittencourt saw a volley from a narrow angle saved after Jerome Boateng's poor headed clearance, but Bayern ensured that their hosts' good work would be for nothing as they took a 51st minute lead.
Robben showed excellent vision to pick out Kroos in the left side of the area and after shaping to play the ball across goal, the German cut it back for Mandzukic, who stroked it low past the helpless Zieler.
Bayern effectively secured the victory 13 minutes later as Ribery fed Robben and although Zieler denied the Netherlands international, he could not keep out the Frenchman's effort on the rebound.
With just over 10 minutes left of the contest, Robben almost added his own name to the score sheet as he controlled Ribery's pass after a marvellous run in from the left, but Sebastien Pocognoli made a vital block in front of Zieler to ensure that the match ended 2-0.
Inter 1-1 Juventus: Spoils shared in tense Derby d'Italia.
Inter 1-1 Juventus: Spoils shared in tense Derby d'Italia.
Mauro Icardi came of the bench to open the scoring for the Nerazzurri late in the game, but Arturo Vidal salvaged a point for the Bianconeri.
Serie A champions Juventus were held to a 1-1 draw by a resilient Inter side at San Siro on Saturday.
Both sides had their moments throughout the Serie A encounter, but it looked like the hosts had done enough to earn all three points when substitute Mauro Icardi opened the scoring in the 73rd minute.
However, the champions responded immediately as Arturo Vidal equalised just two minutes later to ensure both teams remain unbeaten after three top flight fixtures.
Inter went into the clash high on confidence after beginning the campaign with two wins from two games, the latest coming at Catania prior to the international break.
Nerazzurri trainer Walter Mazzarri made just one change to that team, with Saphir Taider replacing Mateo Kovacic.
Juventus also started the season with consecutive victories and, in his 100th match in charge, coach Antonio Conte choose Carlos Tevez to once again partner Mirko Vucinic in attack as Fernando Llorente settled for a place on the bench.
The match started at a ferocious pace in the opening quarter of an hour and Inter created the first chance on goal as Yuto Nagatomo struck a volley from inside the penalty area after Alvarez's corner, but Gianluigi Buffon got down to his right to palm away.
Juventus looked dangerous when they were able to get into attacking positions, and the champions thought Vidal had won a penalty when he went down under pressure from Taider, but the Chilean was instead booked for diving.
Inter's productivity in attack increased as the first half went on, but it was Pogba who should have opened the scoring for the visitors just after the half-hour mark.
However, the France international's close range effort after Andrea Pirlo’s lofted pass was saved Samir Handanovic.
The first period ended with Mazzarri's side on the front foot, but Buffon was in good form to deny Taider after the Algerian skipped past Stephan Lichtsteiner down the left and shot from a narrow angle.
The first 10 minutes of the second half proved to be cagey as neither side posed much of an attacking threat and Juventus appeared increasingly content to sit back and absorb pressure from the hosts.
However, Conte's men still looked dangerous on the counter-attack and they almost broke to devastating effect just before the hour.
Tevez cut in from the right before playing Vidal in, but he could only fire wide of Handanovic's left-hand post.
But the deadlock was eventually broken at the other end 17 minutes from time as Icardi who had been introduced from the bench just six minutes earlier latched on to a perfect through ball from Ricky Alvarez and fired first time past Buffon.
However, Juventus managed to hit back straight away as Kwadwo Asamoah muscled his way past two defenders down the left before hitting a low cross into the danger area, which Vidal controlled with a superb first touch before placing the ball into the bottom corner.
Mauro Icardi came of the bench to open the scoring for the Nerazzurri late in the game, but Arturo Vidal salvaged a point for the Bianconeri.
Both sides had their moments throughout the Serie A encounter, but it looked like the hosts had done enough to earn all three points when substitute Mauro Icardi opened the scoring in the 73rd minute.
However, the champions responded immediately as Arturo Vidal equalised just two minutes later to ensure both teams remain unbeaten after three top flight fixtures.
Inter went into the clash high on confidence after beginning the campaign with two wins from two games, the latest coming at Catania prior to the international break.
Nerazzurri trainer Walter Mazzarri made just one change to that team, with Saphir Taider replacing Mateo Kovacic.
Juventus also started the season with consecutive victories and, in his 100th match in charge, coach Antonio Conte choose Carlos Tevez to once again partner Mirko Vucinic in attack as Fernando Llorente settled for a place on the bench.
The match started at a ferocious pace in the opening quarter of an hour and Inter created the first chance on goal as Yuto Nagatomo struck a volley from inside the penalty area after Alvarez's corner, but Gianluigi Buffon got down to his right to palm away.
Juventus looked dangerous when they were able to get into attacking positions, and the champions thought Vidal had won a penalty when he went down under pressure from Taider, but the Chilean was instead booked for diving.
Inter's productivity in attack increased as the first half went on, but it was Pogba who should have opened the scoring for the visitors just after the half-hour mark.
However, the France international's close range effort after Andrea Pirlo’s lofted pass was saved Samir Handanovic.
The first period ended with Mazzarri's side on the front foot, but Buffon was in good form to deny Taider after the Algerian skipped past Stephan Lichtsteiner down the left and shot from a narrow angle.
The first 10 minutes of the second half proved to be cagey as neither side posed much of an attacking threat and Juventus appeared increasingly content to sit back and absorb pressure from the hosts.
However, Conte's men still looked dangerous on the counter-attack and they almost broke to devastating effect just before the hour.
Tevez cut in from the right before playing Vidal in, but he could only fire wide of Handanovic's left-hand post.
But the deadlock was eventually broken at the other end 17 minutes from time as Icardi who had been introduced from the bench just six minutes earlier latched on to a perfect through ball from Ricky Alvarez and fired first time past Buffon.
However, Juventus managed to hit back straight away as Kwadwo Asamoah muscled his way past two defenders down the left before hitting a low cross into the danger area, which Vidal controlled with a superb first touch before placing the ball into the bottom corner.
Everton 1-0 Chelsea: Naismith nods Toffees to victory.
Everton 1-0 Chelsea: Naismith nods Toffees to victory.
Roberto Martinez's men put in a superb defensive display to overcome Jose Mourinho's side at Goodison park, with the visitors missing a host of gilt edged chances throughout.
Jose Mourinho suffered his first Premier League defeat since returning to Chelsea following a 1-0 loss against Everton at Goodison Park.
Mourinho's men were guilty of missing a host of chances and were made to pay for their wastefulness when Steven Naismith grabbed the winner on the stroke of half-time to hand Roberto Martinez his first Premier League victory as Everton manager.
Debutant Samuel Eto'o and Andre Schurrle were particularly guilty of squandering good opportunities for the visitors in the first half, and Naismith pounced from Nikica Jelavic's header back across goal in first-half injury time.
Substitute Oscar felt he should have been awarded a penalty in the second half but referee Howard Webb waved away the protests.
Mourinho handed a first competitive start to transfer window signing Eto'o, with Fernando Torres dropping to the bench.
Everton gave a debut to Gareth Barry but fellow new boy James McCarthy had to settle for a place among the substitutes.
In a lively opening, Eto'o almost opened his Premier League account as early as the fourth minute Ramires found space on the right and his pin point cross was met by the Cameroonian who could only head over from eight yards.
At the other end, Jelavic was equally as wasteful. Ross Barkley won possession in midfield and he supplied Naismith, whose excellent cross was met by the Croatian but he headed tamely at Petr Cech.
Tim Howard was given a huge reprieve in the 29th minute after a small lull in clear cut openings.
Howard's attempted pass out of defence was intercepted by Eden Hazard. He centred to Eto'o who looked destined to tap into the empty goal, only to be denied by a wonderful sliding interception from Barry.
Chelsea continued to press and Mourinho was visibly frustrated as two good opportunities were not converted. First, Ramires flicked a ball in the air and volleyed at goal only to be denied by Howard.
The Brazilian then broke free again and prodded into the path of Schurrle, but the German blasted well over when one-on-one with the goalkeeper.
And Chelsea were made to pay for their profligacy in front of goal when Naismith notched the opener on 45 minutes.
Barkley crossed to Jelavic at the back post and he headed back across goal to the Scot, who could not miss when heading home on the goal line.
The second half started in similar fashion with Chelsea creating but unable to break down Everton's resistance.
Schurrle broke free but chipped over Howard into the side netting before Howard parried a Hazard effort into the path of Eto'o, but he failed to connect as the ball went harmlessly wide.
Oscar replaced Juan Mata, and the Brazilian thought he should have had a penalty in the 58th minute.
He ran across Sylvain Distin and was felled in the box but Webb was unmoved. Replays suggested Oscar may have had legitimate claims for a spot kick as he appeared to touch the ball before the Frenchman.
With 20 minutes remaining, the lively Ramires stretched for a Branislav Ivanovic cross but he could only fire into the side netting.
Everton looked threatening on the counter attack as Chelsea searched for the equaliser, and had a series of corners before Kevin Mirallas had an effort beaten away well by Cech.
The home fans thought their team had a late penalty when Seamus Coleman was brought down by Hazard, but the incident occurred just outside the box.
And they came desperately close to a second in the 88th minute when Leighton Baines saw his free kick rebound off the crossbar.
Roberto Martinez's men put in a superb defensive display to overcome Jose Mourinho's side at Goodison park, with the visitors missing a host of gilt edged chances throughout.
Mourinho's men were guilty of missing a host of chances and were made to pay for their wastefulness when Steven Naismith grabbed the winner on the stroke of half-time to hand Roberto Martinez his first Premier League victory as Everton manager.
Debutant Samuel Eto'o and Andre Schurrle were particularly guilty of squandering good opportunities for the visitors in the first half, and Naismith pounced from Nikica Jelavic's header back across goal in first-half injury time.
Substitute Oscar felt he should have been awarded a penalty in the second half but referee Howard Webb waved away the protests.
Mourinho handed a first competitive start to transfer window signing Eto'o, with Fernando Torres dropping to the bench.
Everton gave a debut to Gareth Barry but fellow new boy James McCarthy had to settle for a place among the substitutes.
In a lively opening, Eto'o almost opened his Premier League account as early as the fourth minute Ramires found space on the right and his pin point cross was met by the Cameroonian who could only head over from eight yards.
At the other end, Jelavic was equally as wasteful. Ross Barkley won possession in midfield and he supplied Naismith, whose excellent cross was met by the Croatian but he headed tamely at Petr Cech.
Tim Howard was given a huge reprieve in the 29th minute after a small lull in clear cut openings.
Howard's attempted pass out of defence was intercepted by Eden Hazard. He centred to Eto'o who looked destined to tap into the empty goal, only to be denied by a wonderful sliding interception from Barry.
Chelsea continued to press and Mourinho was visibly frustrated as two good opportunities were not converted. First, Ramires flicked a ball in the air and volleyed at goal only to be denied by Howard.
The Brazilian then broke free again and prodded into the path of Schurrle, but the German blasted well over when one-on-one with the goalkeeper.
And Chelsea were made to pay for their profligacy in front of goal when Naismith notched the opener on 45 minutes.
Barkley crossed to Jelavic at the back post and he headed back across goal to the Scot, who could not miss when heading home on the goal line.
The second half started in similar fashion with Chelsea creating but unable to break down Everton's resistance.
Schurrle broke free but chipped over Howard into the side netting before Howard parried a Hazard effort into the path of Eto'o, but he failed to connect as the ball went harmlessly wide.
Oscar replaced Juan Mata, and the Brazilian thought he should have had a penalty in the 58th minute.
He ran across Sylvain Distin and was felled in the box but Webb was unmoved. Replays suggested Oscar may have had legitimate claims for a spot kick as he appeared to touch the ball before the Frenchman.
With 20 minutes remaining, the lively Ramires stretched for a Branislav Ivanovic cross but he could only fire into the side netting.
Everton looked threatening on the counter attack as Chelsea searched for the equaliser, and had a series of corners before Kevin Mirallas had an effort beaten away well by Cech.
The home fans thought their team had a late penalty when Seamus Coleman was brought down by Hazard, but the incident occurred just outside the box.
And they came desperately close to a second in the 88th minute when Leighton Baines saw his free kick rebound off the crossbar.
Borussia Dortmund 6-2 Hamburg: Lewandowski & Aubameyang destroy visitors.
Borussia Dortmund 6-2 Hamburg: Lewandowski & Aubameyang destroy visitors.
The two strikers scored twice while Henrikh Mkhitaryan also got in on the act as BVB ran out winners, despite having struggled to storm into the lead.
Borussia Dortmund have hammered Hamburg 7-2 with a display of attacking dominance at the Signal Iduna Park on Saturday.
Pierre Emerick Aubameyang and Robert Lewandowski both score two goals apiece, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan and the influential Marco Reus also on target.
Goals from Zhi Gin Lam and Heiko Westermann had briefly drawn Hamburg level just after half-time, but Dortmund’s dominance eventually told in a one-sided second half.
Looking to extend their 100 per cent league record, Dortmund made just one change to the side that beat Eintracht Frankfurt last time out, welcoming back Aubameyang in place of Jakub Blaszczykowski.
Despite fears that he would miss the game with a thigh strain, captain and top scorer Rafael van der Vaart was fit to lead the Hamburg attack, while the visitors also recalled former Dortmund youth team defender Lasse Sobiech.
The home side took the lead their early possession deserved on 19 minutes, Aubameyang running onto Marcel Schmelzer's long ball to fire left footed through Rene Adler at his near post.
And they doubled their advantage just three minutes later, Armenia international Mkhitaryan coolly slotting home from the edge of the box after a back heel from Lewandowski had set him free.
The visitors had barely threatened the Dortmund goal, but a moment of magic from Lam brought them back into the game after 26 minutes.
The midfielder skipped inside two challenges to fire home from distance into the bottom corner, giving Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller no chance.
Lam’s goal had been Hamburg’s only shot on target during the first half, but three minutes after the restart they drew level with just their second effort of the match.
Centre half Westermann rose above Dortmund’s Neven Subotic to head in at the back post following a pin-point free kick from Van der Vaart.
The home side’s pressure finally told just past the hour, when Aubameyang fired home across the goalkeeper after being played in by Mkhitaryan.
From then on, it was one way traffic, and Lewandowski made it 4-2 on 73 minutes, slotting home from 12 yards after superb work from Reus.
Reus got on the scoresheet himself a minute later, taking advantage of a defensive mix up to make it 5-2 before Lewandowski completed the rout on 81 minutes, heading home Nuri Sahin’s cross from six yards out.
The scoreline was tough on Adler, who made several impressive saves to keep Hamburg in touch, but he could ultimately do little as Dortmund once again took charge at the top of the Bundesliga.
The two strikers scored twice while Henrikh Mkhitaryan also got in on the act as BVB ran out winners, despite having struggled to storm into the lead.
Pierre Emerick Aubameyang and Robert Lewandowski both score two goals apiece, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan and the influential Marco Reus also on target.
Goals from Zhi Gin Lam and Heiko Westermann had briefly drawn Hamburg level just after half-time, but Dortmund’s dominance eventually told in a one-sided second half.
Looking to extend their 100 per cent league record, Dortmund made just one change to the side that beat Eintracht Frankfurt last time out, welcoming back Aubameyang in place of Jakub Blaszczykowski.
Despite fears that he would miss the game with a thigh strain, captain and top scorer Rafael van der Vaart was fit to lead the Hamburg attack, while the visitors also recalled former Dortmund youth team defender Lasse Sobiech.
The home side took the lead their early possession deserved on 19 minutes, Aubameyang running onto Marcel Schmelzer's long ball to fire left footed through Rene Adler at his near post.
And they doubled their advantage just three minutes later, Armenia international Mkhitaryan coolly slotting home from the edge of the box after a back heel from Lewandowski had set him free.
The visitors had barely threatened the Dortmund goal, but a moment of magic from Lam brought them back into the game after 26 minutes.
The midfielder skipped inside two challenges to fire home from distance into the bottom corner, giving Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller no chance.
Lam’s goal had been Hamburg’s only shot on target during the first half, but three minutes after the restart they drew level with just their second effort of the match.
Centre half Westermann rose above Dortmund’s Neven Subotic to head in at the back post following a pin-point free kick from Van der Vaart.
The home side’s pressure finally told just past the hour, when Aubameyang fired home across the goalkeeper after being played in by Mkhitaryan.
From then on, it was one way traffic, and Lewandowski made it 4-2 on 73 minutes, slotting home from 12 yards after superb work from Reus.
Reus got on the scoresheet himself a minute later, taking advantage of a defensive mix up to make it 5-2 before Lewandowski completed the rout on 81 minutes, heading home Nuri Sahin’s cross from six yards out.
The scoreline was tough on Adler, who made several impressive saves to keep Hamburg in touch, but he could ultimately do little as Dortmund once again took charge at the top of the Bundesliga.
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Arsenal Football Club design for iphone 4/4s and iphone 5 case
Arsenal Football Club design for iphone 4/4s and iphone 5 case.
Black Hard Plastic
White Hard Plastic
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
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Brand new.
Made from plastic and coated with a crystal clear enamel layer, you images will be reflected cleanly on your iPhone 4s / 5 case
This case will only fit the iPhone 4 or 4S an 5. It will not fit the iPhone 3G or 3GS or iPod Touch
Cover Back and Side (Left and Right) of the iPhone
This case is a one piece case that covers the back and sides of the phone. There is no front for the case.
The logo or picture is trademark of their respective companies. This product is not licensed, defined, sponsored, endorsed or manufactured by them.
when you purchase the product. Please put a note for your order ( iPhone 4, 4S or iPhone 5) if you didn't give your specific description for your order. the product sent will be the default product which is iPhone 4.
PAYMENT METHOD
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We only accept PayPal for payment method.
Your item will be handles and shipped after clear payment received.
SHIPPING TERMS
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It usually needs 2-5 business days for handling and packaging process.
Estimate for delivery time within :
9-15 business days from the date of shipment in US
15-21 business days from the date of shipment in AUSTRALIA
21-28 business days from the date of shipment in CANADA
25-35 business days from the date of shipment in World Wide (Other Country)
Keep in mind that delivery dates are not guaranteed and may include extra transit time because of unforeseen delays. Late deliveries are always a possibility, however, we will try our best to ensure all deliveries arrive on time.
We do not responsible for any custom duty or import tax.
For holiday seasons, shipping will take longer time to reach please be patient when awaiting your item.
TERM OF SALE
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Buyers must pay immediately though PayPal due to the "Buy it Now" option.
We offer 90 days money back guarantee following your purchase date.
Thank for loyalty, trust and your visit to our store. Do not hesitate to contact us with your questions at any time.
Attention: Two days does not give specific choice (iphone 4/5 and color black / white, from the date that we receive payment. We will process the order according to the image that we display in the store smartdevuna - Bonanza. Thank you.
http://www.bonanza.com/listings/Arsenal-Football-Club-design-for-iphone-4-4s-and-iphone-5-case/124189011
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Ronaldo's right hand man: Where will Bale fit in at Real Madrid?
Ronaldo's right hand man: Where will Bale fit in at Real Madrid?
The Welshman has finally completed a world record move from Tottenham to the Santiago Bernabeu, but exactly what part will he play under new coach Carlo Ancelotti?
Gareth Bale's protracted transfer from Tottenham to Real Madrid has finally been confirmed. The Welsh winger moves from north London to the Spanish capital for a world record fee of €100m, with the news confirmed by both clubs on Sunday, as the lid was lifted on this summer's worst kept secret. "Bale was born to play for Real Madrid," Real president Florentino Perez claimed earlier this summer. So the question now is not if, but where.
Bale is known to look up to Madrid's main man, Cristiano Ronaldo, and has openly shown his admiration for the Portuguese on Twitter. "Another hat trick for Ronaldo! I think he's the best all round player in the world right now. Ballon d'Or 2013!" Bale tweeted after Cristiano hit a treble against Celta Vigo in the Copa del Rey back in January, just days after missing out on the prestigious individual prize.
Bale's position, his powerful forward runs and his superb shooting from distance have seen the Spurs star constantly compared to the Portuguese. "He is our Cristiano Ronaldo," Spurs boss Andre Villas Boas told the media last season.
Former Madrid president Ramon Calderon claims the signing of Bale is to pre empt the possible departure of Ronaldo. "I think the president has all his eggs on the table just in case he can’t get the renewal of Cristiano. That is my impression," the former Madrid chief said recently.
However, Ronaldo looks likely to reach an agreement with Madrid on a new deal and, even so, coach Carlo Ancelotti believes both men can be accommodated in the starting XI. Despite experimenting with Ronaldo as the striker this pre season and playing the Portuguese further forward in the win over Betis last weekend, the Italian revealed recently that the 28 year old will operate largely in his preferred position. "Cristiano has to be comfortable, he is a very important player. I don't need to change his position and he doesn't have to work much in defence - he needs to be ready when the team have the ball."
Ancelotti is unlikely to stick with just one formation this term, but be it 4-4-2, 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-2-1, Ronaldo looks set to roam from his starting spot on the left, just as he did so successfully under compatriot Jose Mourinho, particularly after he struggled in the role of support striker against Betis.
Bale began his career as a leftm back but made his breakthrough at Tottenham operating further forward - as a left winger. However, full-back in La Liga can be an attacking role, as both Marcelo and Dani Alves have shown in recent seasons. After his explosive display against Inter in the Champions League at San Siro in October, 2010, Spurs legend Glenn Hoddle commented: "At Barcelona or Real Madrid, he could play as a full-back because they are more like wing-backs over there [in Spain]."
But Bale's best performances for club and country have come higher up the pitch. "Real Madrid's fans will be purring at the thought of having possibly him and Ronaldo in the same team. They can go back and challenge the world again," Hoddle added earlier this month. And he definitely was not referring to a full-back role for the 24 year old now.
If needed, Bale could play in defence, but Madrid would not have paid all that money for a full back. At the Bernabeu, Gareth's role will be a much more important one. "I don't know what position he will play, but for that type of money, he'll be in the team somewhere," former Madrid and Spurs centre back Jonathan Woodgate said this week. And he added: "It's a frightening forward line: Karim Benzema, Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo."
Indeed it is and Woodgate could also have mentioned summer signing Isco, plus Mesut Ozil and Kaka. Those three players are all best suited to operating through the middle in the 'playmaker' position, which means Bale is unlikely to operate behind the main striker probably Benzema even though he excelled in a central role at White Hart Lane last term.
"Bale is seen as an undisputed starter in this team and he will co exist with Cristiano in what will be one of the world's most impressive forward lines," a Madrid insider told Goal. "Where he will play depends on Ancelotti but he and Cristiano can tear teams apart with their pace and their power, while he will also offer a considerable goal threat. Florentino's vision is a team with Cristiano on one side and Bale on the other."
Perez has often been criticised for his lack of knowledge when it comes to football, yet he may just have hit the nail on the head this time around. Because Bale is seen by Madrid's coaching staff as a player who can cut in from the right flank onto his luxurious left foot much as Ronaldo does on the other side of the pitch.
Many of the Welshman's wonder strikes from last season (including the last minute winner against Sunderland on the final day of the Premier League campaign) saw him cut infield from the right before unleashing unstoppable drives from distance. Madrid have been taking note and this is precisely how most at the club see him fitting in next season as Angel Di Maria and Ozil both seem set to start on the bench.
However, Bale's flexibility is also seen as a huge advantage by the Spanish side. Our insider added: "He can operate in a number of different positions - and he can switch places with Cristiano. It will be spectacular and our opponents will be left dizzy by those two."
Gareth Bale's protracted transfer from Tottenham to Real Madrid has finally been confirmed. The Welsh winger moves from north London to the Spanish capital for a world record fee of €100m, with the news confirmed by both clubs on Sunday, as the lid was lifted on this summer's worst kept secret. "Bale was born to play for Real Madrid," Real president Florentino Perez claimed earlier this summer. So the question now is not if, but where.
Bale is known to look up to Madrid's main man, Cristiano Ronaldo, and has openly shown his admiration for the Portuguese on Twitter. "Another hat trick for Ronaldo! I think he's the best all round player in the world right now. Ballon d'Or 2013!" Bale tweeted after Cristiano hit a treble against Celta Vigo in the Copa del Rey back in January, just days after missing out on the prestigious individual prize.
Bale's position, his powerful forward runs and his superb shooting from distance have seen the Spurs star constantly compared to the Portuguese. "He is our Cristiano Ronaldo," Spurs boss Andre Villas Boas told the media last season.
Former Madrid president Ramon Calderon claims the signing of Bale is to pre empt the possible departure of Ronaldo. "I think the president has all his eggs on the table just in case he can’t get the renewal of Cristiano. That is my impression," the former Madrid chief said recently.
However, Ronaldo looks likely to reach an agreement with Madrid on a new deal and, even so, coach Carlo Ancelotti believes both men can be accommodated in the starting XI. Despite experimenting with Ronaldo as the striker this pre season and playing the Portuguese further forward in the win over Betis last weekend, the Italian revealed recently that the 28 year old will operate largely in his preferred position. "Cristiano has to be comfortable, he is a very important player. I don't need to change his position and he doesn't have to work much in defence - he needs to be ready when the team have the ball."
Ancelotti is unlikely to stick with just one formation this term, but be it 4-4-2, 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-2-1, Ronaldo looks set to roam from his starting spot on the left, just as he did so successfully under compatriot Jose Mourinho, particularly after he struggled in the role of support striker against Betis.
Bale began his career as a leftm back but made his breakthrough at Tottenham operating further forward - as a left winger. However, full-back in La Liga can be an attacking role, as both Marcelo and Dani Alves have shown in recent seasons. After his explosive display against Inter in the Champions League at San Siro in October, 2010, Spurs legend Glenn Hoddle commented: "At Barcelona or Real Madrid, he could play as a full-back because they are more like wing-backs over there [in Spain]."
But Bale's best performances for club and country have come higher up the pitch. "Real Madrid's fans will be purring at the thought of having possibly him and Ronaldo in the same team. They can go back and challenge the world again," Hoddle added earlier this month. And he definitely was not referring to a full-back role for the 24 year old now.
If needed, Bale could play in defence, but Madrid would not have paid all that money for a full back. At the Bernabeu, Gareth's role will be a much more important one. "I don't know what position he will play, but for that type of money, he'll be in the team somewhere," former Madrid and Spurs centre back Jonathan Woodgate said this week. And he added: "It's a frightening forward line: Karim Benzema, Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo."
Indeed it is and Woodgate could also have mentioned summer signing Isco, plus Mesut Ozil and Kaka. Those three players are all best suited to operating through the middle in the 'playmaker' position, which means Bale is unlikely to operate behind the main striker probably Benzema even though he excelled in a central role at White Hart Lane last term.
"Bale is seen as an undisputed starter in this team and he will co exist with Cristiano in what will be one of the world's most impressive forward lines," a Madrid insider told Goal. "Where he will play depends on Ancelotti but he and Cristiano can tear teams apart with their pace and their power, while he will also offer a considerable goal threat. Florentino's vision is a team with Cristiano on one side and Bale on the other."
Many of the Welshman's wonder strikes from last season (including the last minute winner against Sunderland on the final day of the Premier League campaign) saw him cut infield from the right before unleashing unstoppable drives from distance. Madrid have been taking note and this is precisely how most at the club see him fitting in next season as Angel Di Maria and Ozil both seem set to start on the bench.
However, Bale's flexibility is also seen as a huge advantage by the Spanish side. Our insider added: "He can operate in a number of different positions - and he can switch places with Cristiano. It will be spectacular and our opponents will be left dizzy by those two."
Ozil completes Arsenal move.
The Germany star has agreed a stunning €47 million move from Real Madrid to the Emirates, signing a five year contract with the Premier League side.
esut Ozil has sealed a spectacular €47 million move to Arsenal after signing a five year contract.
The Gunners have smashed their transfer record to land the Germany international, who underwent the second part of his medical in Munich on Monday after agreeing personal terms with the club.
Goal has learned that Ozil has signed a deal worth around €150,000 a week that will run until 2018 after Real Madrid gave the green light to his departure.
He will comfortably become Arsenal’s highest paid player as well as the club’s record signing, after Arsene Wenger sanctioned the first €23m plus transfer in their history.
Arsenal were in advanced discussions with Real to sign Ozil before Monday night’s transfer deadline.
The two clubs agreed a €47m fee before Ozil’s representatives began discussing personal terms with senior Arsenal officials.
An agreement was reached late on Monday morning before Ozil underwent medical tests in Germany, where he had been based as the national team prepare for their forthcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Arsenal are hoping to sign at least three players on deadline day as they try to make amends for a frustrating summer of transfer activity at the club.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano has already had a medical, which he passed on Monday morning, and has agreed the terms of a season long loan from Palermo. Arsenal are also in talks with Chelsea about a season long loan move for Demba Ba.
The Gunners have still not abandoned hope of signing Angel Di Maria, also from Real, for €30m.
The Gunners tabled a bid for Di Maria last week and the offer is still believed to be on the table. However, the Argentine winger has begun the season in impressive form and is reluctant to cut his ties with the Santiago Bernabeu.
The Gunners have smashed their transfer record to land the Germany international, who underwent the second part of his medical in Munich on Monday after agreeing personal terms with the club.
Goal has learned that Ozil has signed a deal worth around €150,000 a week that will run until 2018 after Real Madrid gave the green light to his departure.
He will comfortably become Arsenal’s highest paid player as well as the club’s record signing, after Arsene Wenger sanctioned the first €23m plus transfer in their history.
Arsenal were in advanced discussions with Real to sign Ozil before Monday night’s transfer deadline.
The two clubs agreed a €47m fee before Ozil’s representatives began discussing personal terms with senior Arsenal officials.
An agreement was reached late on Monday morning before Ozil underwent medical tests in Germany, where he had been based as the national team prepare for their forthcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Arsenal are hoping to sign at least three players on deadline day as they try to make amends for a frustrating summer of transfer activity at the club.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano has already had a medical, which he passed on Monday morning, and has agreed the terms of a season long loan from Palermo. Arsenal are also in talks with Chelsea about a season long loan move for Demba Ba.
The Gunners have still not abandoned hope of signing Angel Di Maria, also from Real, for €30m.
The Gunners tabled a bid for Di Maria last week and the offer is still believed to be on the table. However, the Argentine winger has begun the season in impressive form and is reluctant to cut his ties with the Santiago Bernabeu.
The summer market has finally come to a close, but not everyone got their wish before Monday night's deadline.
The summer market has finally come to a close, but not everyone got their wish before Monday night's deadline.
* MANCHESTER UNITED
For a long time it appeared as though the Premier League champions might end the transfer window with a whimper, and while many might suggest that the late deal which saw Marouane Fellaini arrive at Old Trafford was enough to appease the fans, a great number of question marks remain over the Red Devils' project.
After an entire summer chasing Fellaini and his Everton team mate Leighton Baines, United found themselves paying a heavy price on both counts. Though they eventually captured Fellaini, they ended up paying £4.5 million more than the initial £23m buyout clause he had written into his Goodison Park contract thanks to their inability to move more quickly.
Then, having failed to meet the Toffees' demands for England international Baines, a late bid to bring in second-choice target Fabio Coentrao on a year-long loan from Real Madrid fell foul of the midnight cut-off.
To add to that, United also fell €6m short of the €36m fee demanded by Athletic Bilbao to release midfielder Ander Herrera from his contract at San Mames, leaving David Moyes short on the numbers he was hoping to have available to him ahead of the first half of his opening campaign in charge.
* PARIS SAINT GERMAIN
They may have landed one of the most sought after signings of the summer, but not even Edinson Cavani's big money purchase could gloss over PSG's notable losses over the last four months.
The Uruguayan's €64m arrival was supposed to help the club kick on to new levels, but the losses of coach Carlo Ancelotti to Real Madrid and sporting director Leonardo following suspension have left a huge gap at the Parc des Princes.
Laurent Blanc stepped into the hot seat despite being a long way down the French champions' wanted list, but he has been handed a squad which is short on balance. With Cavani and Zlatan Ibrahimovic both demanding regular starts, Blanc's hand has been forced in terms of formation, with Ezequiel Lavezzi, Javier Pastore and Jeremy Menez among those set to find themselves played out of position more often than not. Already in their opening Ligue 1 fixtures, Les Parisiens have struggled to fuse well on the field for large spells.
With Monaco spending big and Marseille strengthening well, this season may not be as comfortable as some would have expected for PSG.
* BARCELONA
Having previously looked set to rein in Thiago Silva, this summer it was David Luiz who appeared likely to be caught in Barcelona's net in their quest to sign a top-class defender. But, yet again, they head into the season with a defence which relies heavily on the stocks already available to them.
With 35 year old skipper Carles Puyol spending more and more time on the sidelines, it was expected that the Blaugrana would finally sign a centre-back of notable quality, but the chase for Luiz never really got off the ground and they may well be left to pay the price.
An outfit which was so easily exposed by Bayern Munich over two legs in the Champions League will have no new defender to call upon this term, with Javier Mascherano again expected to fill in at the heart of the back line whenever Puyol is unavailable.
The Spanish champions strengthened notably further up the field with the €57m signing of Neymar, but the jury is still out on exactly how Gerardo Martino will fit the Brazil international into his starting XI, leaving many questions to be asked about the wisdom in spending so much time and effort on purchasing another skilful attacker and overlooking glaring issues at the back.
* AC MILAN
There were scenes of delirium on Via Turati in the centre of Milan on Monday as Kaka waved from the balcony of AC Milan's offices, patting the badge on his No.22 shirt as though the last four years had never happened.
Of course, the reality is that his nightmare spell at Real Madrid did happen, and his body will feel the effect forever more. Having left the Rossoneri in 2009 as a recent Ballon d'Or winner and a 27-year-old with something still to offer, he returns a shell of his former self with a body that cannot do what it used to.
Such is the romance which surrounds the club, signings like this one can often cloud the reality of any given moment. And, in this case, the reality is that business has not been great this summer.
Having sat on their hands for much of the transfer window and repeated their desire to rely on the development of the young players they already had at their disposal, the Milan board began splashing the cash the moment their place in the Champions League group stage was secured following victory over PSV last Wednesday.
In signing Alessandro Matri for €11m, they have overspent massively. In re-signing Kaka, they have gone with the heart and not the head. In taking on Valter Birsa they have added another offensive player at a time when they are already well stocked. And in overlooking their issues in defence, in goal and at the heart of midfield, Milan have potentially set themselves up for a fall.
For a long time it appeared as though the Premier League champions might end the transfer window with a whimper, and while many might suggest that the late deal which saw Marouane Fellaini arrive at Old Trafford was enough to appease the fans, a great number of question marks remain over the Red Devils' project.
After an entire summer chasing Fellaini and his Everton team mate Leighton Baines, United found themselves paying a heavy price on both counts. Though they eventually captured Fellaini, they ended up paying £4.5 million more than the initial £23m buyout clause he had written into his Goodison Park contract thanks to their inability to move more quickly.
Then, having failed to meet the Toffees' demands for England international Baines, a late bid to bring in second-choice target Fabio Coentrao on a year-long loan from Real Madrid fell foul of the midnight cut-off.
To add to that, United also fell €6m short of the €36m fee demanded by Athletic Bilbao to release midfielder Ander Herrera from his contract at San Mames, leaving David Moyes short on the numbers he was hoping to have available to him ahead of the first half of his opening campaign in charge.
* PARIS SAINT GERMAIN
They may have landed one of the most sought after signings of the summer, but not even Edinson Cavani's big money purchase could gloss over PSG's notable losses over the last four months.
The Uruguayan's €64m arrival was supposed to help the club kick on to new levels, but the losses of coach Carlo Ancelotti to Real Madrid and sporting director Leonardo following suspension have left a huge gap at the Parc des Princes.
Laurent Blanc stepped into the hot seat despite being a long way down the French champions' wanted list, but he has been handed a squad which is short on balance. With Cavani and Zlatan Ibrahimovic both demanding regular starts, Blanc's hand has been forced in terms of formation, with Ezequiel Lavezzi, Javier Pastore and Jeremy Menez among those set to find themselves played out of position more often than not. Already in their opening Ligue 1 fixtures, Les Parisiens have struggled to fuse well on the field for large spells.
With Monaco spending big and Marseille strengthening well, this season may not be as comfortable as some would have expected for PSG.
* BARCELONA
Having previously looked set to rein in Thiago Silva, this summer it was David Luiz who appeared likely to be caught in Barcelona's net in their quest to sign a top-class defender. But, yet again, they head into the season with a defence which relies heavily on the stocks already available to them.
With 35 year old skipper Carles Puyol spending more and more time on the sidelines, it was expected that the Blaugrana would finally sign a centre-back of notable quality, but the chase for Luiz never really got off the ground and they may well be left to pay the price.
An outfit which was so easily exposed by Bayern Munich over two legs in the Champions League will have no new defender to call upon this term, with Javier Mascherano again expected to fill in at the heart of the back line whenever Puyol is unavailable.
The Spanish champions strengthened notably further up the field with the €57m signing of Neymar, but the jury is still out on exactly how Gerardo Martino will fit the Brazil international into his starting XI, leaving many questions to be asked about the wisdom in spending so much time and effort on purchasing another skilful attacker and overlooking glaring issues at the back.
* AC MILAN
There were scenes of delirium on Via Turati in the centre of Milan on Monday as Kaka waved from the balcony of AC Milan's offices, patting the badge on his No.22 shirt as though the last four years had never happened.
Of course, the reality is that his nightmare spell at Real Madrid did happen, and his body will feel the effect forever more. Having left the Rossoneri in 2009 as a recent Ballon d'Or winner and a 27-year-old with something still to offer, he returns a shell of his former self with a body that cannot do what it used to.
Such is the romance which surrounds the club, signings like this one can often cloud the reality of any given moment. And, in this case, the reality is that business has not been great this summer.
Having sat on their hands for much of the transfer window and repeated their desire to rely on the development of the young players they already had at their disposal, the Milan board began splashing the cash the moment their place in the Champions League group stage was secured following victory over PSV last Wednesday.
In signing Alessandro Matri for €11m, they have overspent massively. In re-signing Kaka, they have gone with the heart and not the head. In taking on Valter Birsa they have added another offensive player at a time when they are already well stocked. And in overlooking their issues in defence, in goal and at the heart of midfield, Milan have potentially set themselves up for a fall.
Isco (Malaga - Real Madrid €30m)
Isco (Malaga - Real Madrid €30m)
How good is Isco? Well, Real Madrid have decided they could afford to offload former Ballon d'Or winner Kaka and Germany playmaker Mesut Ozil because they have the utmost confidence in the 21 year old Spaniard becoming one of the best attacking midfielders in the world.
Certainly, he has only reinforced that belief since arriving at the Santiago Bernabeu for €30 million earlier this summer. Betraying a complete disregard for pressure, Isco has already established himself as one of Madrid's key players, racking up three goals in his first three Liga appearances. The scary thing is, he's only going to get better.
Certainly, he has only reinforced that belief since arriving at the Santiago Bernabeu for €30 million earlier this summer. Betraying a complete disregard for pressure, Isco has already established himself as one of Madrid's key players, racking up three goals in his first three Liga appearances. The scary thing is, he's only going to get better.
Monday, September 2, 2013
Frankfurt 1-2 Borussia Dortmund: Magical Mkhitaryan fires Klopp's side top.
Frankfurt 1-2 Borussia Dortmund: Magical Mkhitaryan fires Klopp's side top.
The Armenian star struck in each half to cancel out Vaclav Kadlec's goal and see BVB leapfrog Bayern Munich with four wins from four in the Bundesliga.
Two terrific goals from Henrikh Mkhitaryan handed Borussia Dortmund a 2-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt on Sunday, moving them to the top of the Bundesliga.
The Armenian struck either side of Vaclav Kadlec's goal to see Jurgen Klopp's side leapfrog Bayern Munich with their fourth win in four league games against a spirited Frankfurt side.
Dortmund made one change from their 1-0 win over Werder Bremen last week, with Sven Bender replacing Sebastian Kehl in midfield.
For the hosts, recent signings Stephan Schrock and Kadlec both featured in the starting line up as Armin Veh's men went in search of consecutive Bundesliga wins.
Frankfurt started brightly and created an early chance when Japan international Takashi Inui tested Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller.
At the other end, Marco Reus set up Jakub Blaszczykowski, but he could only fire straight at keeper Kevin Trapp.
Dortmund did score an early goal though, as Armenian Mkhitaryan calmly slid home a through ball.
Blaszczykowski slipped the ball in behind the Frankfurt defence and Mkhitaryan did the rest, timing his run well before slotting a left footed effort past Trapp.
Kadlec had a terrific chance to level proceedings but was denied by good defending from Marcel Schmelzer, before Weidenfeller kept out the dangerous Czech forward moments later.
Kadlec was a constant threat though, and opened his Frankfurt account 10 minutes before the break after reacting quickly to a loose ball, knocking home the rebound from Stefan Aigner's cross to send the sides level into the break.
Parity was not to last long, however, as Mkhitaryan fired home his second of the afternoon within 15 minutes of the restart. The attacking midfielder cut in from the right before dribbling along the edge of the penalty area and striking powerfully past Trapp.
Dortmund almost scored a third goal shortly after, but defender Neven Subotic saw his header hit the post.
The visitors enjoyed good spells of possession in the latter stages but could not find another goal to kill the game off.
They held on for victory though, as Jurgen Klopp's men – who have lost just two Bundesliga matches on the road since September 2011 made it four wins from as many games this season, ;eapfrogging champions Bayern Munich into first place in the table.
The Armenian star struck in each half to cancel out Vaclav Kadlec's goal and see BVB leapfrog Bayern Munich with four wins from four in the Bundesliga.
The Armenian struck either side of Vaclav Kadlec's goal to see Jurgen Klopp's side leapfrog Bayern Munich with their fourth win in four league games against a spirited Frankfurt side.
Dortmund made one change from their 1-0 win over Werder Bremen last week, with Sven Bender replacing Sebastian Kehl in midfield.
For the hosts, recent signings Stephan Schrock and Kadlec both featured in the starting line up as Armin Veh's men went in search of consecutive Bundesliga wins.
Frankfurt started brightly and created an early chance when Japan international Takashi Inui tested Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller.
At the other end, Marco Reus set up Jakub Blaszczykowski, but he could only fire straight at keeper Kevin Trapp.
Dortmund did score an early goal though, as Armenian Mkhitaryan calmly slid home a through ball.
Blaszczykowski slipped the ball in behind the Frankfurt defence and Mkhitaryan did the rest, timing his run well before slotting a left footed effort past Trapp.
Kadlec had a terrific chance to level proceedings but was denied by good defending from Marcel Schmelzer, before Weidenfeller kept out the dangerous Czech forward moments later.
Kadlec was a constant threat though, and opened his Frankfurt account 10 minutes before the break after reacting quickly to a loose ball, knocking home the rebound from Stefan Aigner's cross to send the sides level into the break.
Parity was not to last long, however, as Mkhitaryan fired home his second of the afternoon within 15 minutes of the restart. The attacking midfielder cut in from the right before dribbling along the edge of the penalty area and striking powerfully past Trapp.
Dortmund almost scored a third goal shortly after, but defender Neven Subotic saw his header hit the post.
The visitors enjoyed good spells of possession in the latter stages but could not find another goal to kill the game off.
They held on for victory though, as Jurgen Klopp's men – who have lost just two Bundesliga matches on the road since September 2011 made it four wins from as many games this season, ;eapfrogging champions Bayern Munich into first place in the table.
Arsenal in talks with Real Madrid over €47m Ozil.
Arsenal in talks with Real Madrid over €47m Ozil.
Arsene Wenger has stepped up his pursuit of the German playmaker, who has fallen down the Bernabeu pecking order, and hopes to complete a spectacular deal on deadline day.
Arsenal are in advanced talks with Real Madrid to sign Mesut Ozil for €47 million.
High level discussions have been held between the clubs in recent days and Arsene Wenger is increasingly hopeful that a sensational late move for the Germany international can be completed before Monday night’s transfer deadline.
Arsenal are willing to pay a club record €47m to capture Ozil, who has privately indicated he is keen to move to the Emirates Stadium, despite his public claims he is happy to stay and fight for his place in Carlo Ancelotti's side.
The Gunners, who could face competition from Paris St Germain, are battling to complete the deal in what promises to be a frantic final 24 hours of the window.
Wenger is targeting at least three new signings on deadline day as he tries to make amends for what has been a frustrating summer of transfer activity for the club.
Arsenal have reached an agreement with Palermo to sign goalkeeper Emiliano Vivano on a season long loan, with the Italian heading to London on Sunday night to discuss personal terms and undertake a medical.
Wenger is also working on a third deal as he seeks to strengthen a squad that has been severely weakened both by injury and high profile departures in the past two summers.
Despite working with a transfer budget of up to €117m, Wenger has suffered repeated frustration in the transfer market this summer and is yet to make a cash signing.
The Frenchman’s priority has been to add a proven striker to the ranks but two bids for Luis Suarez were rejected by Liverpool, while moves for Gonzalo Higuain, Wayne Rooney and Karim Benzema have all been unsuccessful.
Wenger turned his attention to Real Madrid’s battery of elite attackers after it became increasingly clear that Bale was set for a world-record €100m move to Spain.
The Gunners tabled a €30m bid for Angel Di Maria last week but the player has begun the season in impressive form and is reluctant to cut his ties with the Bernabeu.
However, Ozil was left on the bench for Real’s 3-1 win earlier on Sunday after being substituted during the 1-0 win at Granada six days previously, which he reacted to by storming down the tunnel and onto the team bus.
Asked about overlooking Ozil in favour of Di Maria on Sunday, Ancelotti said: “It’s to be expected that he’s not happy. I don’t like players who are happy to be on the bench. It was a football decision to play Di MarÃa, who is playing well and with great intensity".
Arsenal have been given encouragement that Real are willing to off load the 24 year old playmaker as they prepare to trim costs and free up space in the team for Gareth Bale.
Ozil has been a fixture in the Real team, usually playing in the No10 role behind the centre-forward, since moving from Werder Bream in the summer of 2010. He has also won 47 caps for the Germany national team.
Arsene Wenger has stepped up his pursuit of the German playmaker, who has fallen down the Bernabeu pecking order, and hopes to complete a spectacular deal on deadline day.
High level discussions have been held between the clubs in recent days and Arsene Wenger is increasingly hopeful that a sensational late move for the Germany international can be completed before Monday night’s transfer deadline.
Arsenal are willing to pay a club record €47m to capture Ozil, who has privately indicated he is keen to move to the Emirates Stadium, despite his public claims he is happy to stay and fight for his place in Carlo Ancelotti's side.
The Gunners, who could face competition from Paris St Germain, are battling to complete the deal in what promises to be a frantic final 24 hours of the window.
Wenger is targeting at least three new signings on deadline day as he tries to make amends for what has been a frustrating summer of transfer activity for the club.
Arsenal have reached an agreement with Palermo to sign goalkeeper Emiliano Vivano on a season long loan, with the Italian heading to London on Sunday night to discuss personal terms and undertake a medical.
Wenger is also working on a third deal as he seeks to strengthen a squad that has been severely weakened both by injury and high profile departures in the past two summers.
Despite working with a transfer budget of up to €117m, Wenger has suffered repeated frustration in the transfer market this summer and is yet to make a cash signing.
The Frenchman’s priority has been to add a proven striker to the ranks but two bids for Luis Suarez were rejected by Liverpool, while moves for Gonzalo Higuain, Wayne Rooney and Karim Benzema have all been unsuccessful.
Wenger turned his attention to Real Madrid’s battery of elite attackers after it became increasingly clear that Bale was set for a world-record €100m move to Spain.
The Gunners tabled a €30m bid for Angel Di Maria last week but the player has begun the season in impressive form and is reluctant to cut his ties with the Bernabeu.
However, Ozil was left on the bench for Real’s 3-1 win earlier on Sunday after being substituted during the 1-0 win at Granada six days previously, which he reacted to by storming down the tunnel and onto the team bus.
Asked about overlooking Ozil in favour of Di Maria on Sunday, Ancelotti said: “It’s to be expected that he’s not happy. I don’t like players who are happy to be on the bench. It was a football decision to play Di MarÃa, who is playing well and with great intensity".
Arsenal have been given encouragement that Real are willing to off load the 24 year old playmaker as they prepare to trim costs and free up space in the team for Gareth Bale.
Ozil has been a fixture in the Real team, usually playing in the No10 role behind the centre-forward, since moving from Werder Bream in the summer of 2010. He has also won 47 caps for the Germany national team.
Catania 0-3 Inter: Nerazzurri maintain perfect start.
Catania 0-3 Inter: Nerazzurri maintain perfect start.
Rodrigo Palacio, Yuto Nagatomo and Ricky Alvarez were all on target as Walter Mazzarri's men followed up last weekend's win over Genoa in fine style.
Inter made it two wins out of two in Serie A with an impressive 3-0 triumph over Catania on Sunday.
Rodrigo Palacio opened the scoring for Inter in the 19th minute before he turned provider after the break, setting up Yuto Nagatomo.
And Ricky Alvarez sealed the result 11 minutes from time with a sensational effort, as he raced through the Catania defence before producing a stylish left foot finish.
Mazzarri has overhauled the Inter squad in the transfer window, bringing in a host of players as the San Siro outfit aim to improve on last season's ninth place finish.
And the former Napoli boss already looks to be having an impact, as the Italian giants were excellent in Sicily.
Inter made just one change to the side that beat Genoa 2-0 last week as Mateo Kovacic replaced Zdravko Kuzmanovic in the midfield.
Catania coach Rolando Maran also tinkered with his squad, selecting Nicola Legrottaglie and Sergio Almiron in place of Giuseppe Bellusci and Pablo Barrientos.
Both sides traded superb chances in what was a frenetic start to the match, with Sebastian Leto shooting straight at Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic with the goal gaping.
Inter immediately countered and Legrottaglie was forced to clear off the line after goalkeeper Mariano Andujar failed to handle Jonathan's fierce drive.
Mazzari's men soon set about exerting their dominance and they claimed the lead in the 19th minute as Palacio tapped in from close range.
Jonathan created the goal, breaking free down the right before delivering a superb low cross into the path of the in-form Argentinian.
Inter soon sat back after taking the lead, though, allowing their opponents into the contest, and Panagiotis Tachtsidis and Almiron went close with efforts on goal before the break.
Nagatomo went close early in the second half, with his far-post header brilliant saved by Andujar, but Inter got their second goal 10 minutes after play resumed.
Palacio did well to get free on the right before delivering a superb cross which Nagatomo finished with aplomb.
Alexis Rolin forced a good save out of Handanovic at the other end, while Inter were initially denied a third goal when substitute Ishak Belfodil was adjudged offside after finishing from close range.
They did score again though, as Alvarez picked the ball up just inside the Catania half, before weaving past several defenders and firing past Andujar.
The upcoming international break will give Mazzarri two weeks to prepare for a crucial home fixture against Juventus, while Catania's next assignment is at Livorno.
Rodrigo Palacio, Yuto Nagatomo and Ricky Alvarez were all on target as Walter Mazzarri's men followed up last weekend's win over Genoa in fine style.
Rodrigo Palacio opened the scoring for Inter in the 19th minute before he turned provider after the break, setting up Yuto Nagatomo.
And Ricky Alvarez sealed the result 11 minutes from time with a sensational effort, as he raced through the Catania defence before producing a stylish left foot finish.
Mazzarri has overhauled the Inter squad in the transfer window, bringing in a host of players as the San Siro outfit aim to improve on last season's ninth place finish.
And the former Napoli boss already looks to be having an impact, as the Italian giants were excellent in Sicily.
Inter made just one change to the side that beat Genoa 2-0 last week as Mateo Kovacic replaced Zdravko Kuzmanovic in the midfield.
Catania coach Rolando Maran also tinkered with his squad, selecting Nicola Legrottaglie and Sergio Almiron in place of Giuseppe Bellusci and Pablo Barrientos.
Both sides traded superb chances in what was a frenetic start to the match, with Sebastian Leto shooting straight at Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic with the goal gaping.
Inter immediately countered and Legrottaglie was forced to clear off the line after goalkeeper Mariano Andujar failed to handle Jonathan's fierce drive.
Mazzari's men soon set about exerting their dominance and they claimed the lead in the 19th minute as Palacio tapped in from close range.
Jonathan created the goal, breaking free down the right before delivering a superb low cross into the path of the in-form Argentinian.
Inter soon sat back after taking the lead, though, allowing their opponents into the contest, and Panagiotis Tachtsidis and Almiron went close with efforts on goal before the break.
Nagatomo went close early in the second half, with his far-post header brilliant saved by Andujar, but Inter got their second goal 10 minutes after play resumed.
Palacio did well to get free on the right before delivering a superb cross which Nagatomo finished with aplomb.
Alexis Rolin forced a good save out of Handanovic at the other end, while Inter were initially denied a third goal when substitute Ishak Belfodil was adjudged offside after finishing from close range.
They did score again though, as Alvarez picked the ball up just inside the Catania half, before weaving past several defenders and firing past Andujar.
The upcoming international break will give Mazzarri two weeks to prepare for a crucial home fixture against Juventus, while Catania's next assignment is at Livorno.
AC Milan 3-1 Cagliari: Balotelli on target as hosts claim first Serie A win.
AC Milan 3-1 Cagliari: Balotelli on target as hosts claim first Serie A win.
Massimiliano Allegri's side cruised to a convincing win over Sardinians to pick up their first three points of their domestic season.
AC Milan claimed their first victory of the Serie A season with a 3-1 triumph over Cagliari at San Siro.
Massimiliano Allegri's men made amends for last weekend's shock loss thanks to goals from Robinho, Philippe Mexes and the impressive Mario Balotelli to complete a much improved week for Milan that saw them reach the Champions League group stages.
Marco Sau ensured Cagliari supporters had something to cheer when he scored a wonderful solo effort just before the break before Balotelli sealed the win for Milan.
The result was the 10th time Cagliari have lost at San Siro to Milan and it highlights how much work they will have to do if they want to retain their Serie A status this season.
Milan boss Allegri made three changes to the team that triumphed 3-0 over Dutch side PSV midweek, with Urby Emanuelson, Robinho and Andrea Poli all coming into the side.
New signing Alessandro Matri formerly of Juventus failed to make the starting line up but was named as a substitute.
Cagliari were unchanged from the side that beat Atalanta last week. Ivo Pulga left Davide Astori on the bench for the second match running, fuelling rumours that he could leave the club before the transfer window closes.
Milan got off to a flying start when Robinho tapped home in the eighth minute after a Balotelli cross from right that skimmed past the watching Cagliari defence.
Balotelli's ball bobbled its way to the Brazilian at the back post and he made no mistake.
The playmaker could have scored again two minutes later when he fashioned some space on the edge of visitors' area, but his shot went just past goalkeeper Michael Agazzi's left post.
Cagliari seemed to be overwhelmed by Milan's pressing in the middle of the park and frequently gave the ball away.
And it was the hosts who went two up after 30 minutes thanks to the unlikely figure of Mexes, who surged up from defence to volley home from close range after Balotelli again had been the central figure in the build up.
The former Manchester City man hit a superb shot that Agazzi did well to keep out only for Mexes to slam home the rebound.
Cagliari, though, fought back almost straight away with a fine finish from Sau to keep the game alive.
The striker snaked in from the left and curled his shot away from the helpless Christian Abbiati into the far corner.
The effort was Cagliari's only shot on target in the first half but Sau certainly made it count.
Cagliari started the second period with a sweeping counter attack across the field that forced Milan's defence to desperately backtrack. But Radja Nainggolan on the left flank could not quite free himself from the clutches of Ignazio Abate in the attack's final move.
Just after the hour mark, Balotelli finally got himself on the scoresheet.
A deep Abate cross was weakly headed away by centre half Lorenzo Ariaudo and the ball fell at Balotelli's feet. The striker lashed it into the net to restore Milan's two goal advantage.
Four minutes later, Matri was brought on for Robinho with Allegri perhaps sensing all three points were heading his way.
Massimiliano Allegri's side cruised to a convincing win over Sardinians to pick up their first three points of their domestic season.
Massimiliano Allegri's men made amends for last weekend's shock loss thanks to goals from Robinho, Philippe Mexes and the impressive Mario Balotelli to complete a much improved week for Milan that saw them reach the Champions League group stages.
Marco Sau ensured Cagliari supporters had something to cheer when he scored a wonderful solo effort just before the break before Balotelli sealed the win for Milan.
The result was the 10th time Cagliari have lost at San Siro to Milan and it highlights how much work they will have to do if they want to retain their Serie A status this season.
Milan boss Allegri made three changes to the team that triumphed 3-0 over Dutch side PSV midweek, with Urby Emanuelson, Robinho and Andrea Poli all coming into the side.
New signing Alessandro Matri formerly of Juventus failed to make the starting line up but was named as a substitute.
Cagliari were unchanged from the side that beat Atalanta last week. Ivo Pulga left Davide Astori on the bench for the second match running, fuelling rumours that he could leave the club before the transfer window closes.
Milan got off to a flying start when Robinho tapped home in the eighth minute after a Balotelli cross from right that skimmed past the watching Cagliari defence.
Balotelli's ball bobbled its way to the Brazilian at the back post and he made no mistake.
The playmaker could have scored again two minutes later when he fashioned some space on the edge of visitors' area, but his shot went just past goalkeeper Michael Agazzi's left post.
Cagliari seemed to be overwhelmed by Milan's pressing in the middle of the park and frequently gave the ball away.
And it was the hosts who went two up after 30 minutes thanks to the unlikely figure of Mexes, who surged up from defence to volley home from close range after Balotelli again had been the central figure in the build up.
The former Manchester City man hit a superb shot that Agazzi did well to keep out only for Mexes to slam home the rebound.
Cagliari, though, fought back almost straight away with a fine finish from Sau to keep the game alive.
The striker snaked in from the left and curled his shot away from the helpless Christian Abbiati into the far corner.
The effort was Cagliari's only shot on target in the first half but Sau certainly made it count.
Cagliari started the second period with a sweeping counter attack across the field that forced Milan's defence to desperately backtrack. But Radja Nainggolan on the left flank could not quite free himself from the clutches of Ignazio Abate in the attack's final move.
Just after the hour mark, Balotelli finally got himself on the scoresheet.
A deep Abate cross was weakly headed away by centre half Lorenzo Ariaudo and the ball fell at Balotelli's feet. The striker lashed it into the net to restore Milan's two goal advantage.
Four minutes later, Matri was brought on for Robinho with Allegri perhaps sensing all three points were heading his way.
Valencia 2-3 Barcelona: Messi hat trick settles thriller.
Valencia 2-3 Barcelona: Messi hat trick settles thriller.
The Argentine ran riot in the opening 40 minutes before Helder Postiga brought the hosts back into the game with a quick fire double just before the break.
Lionel Messi scored a sensational hat trick as Barcelona held on to record a dramatic 3-2 victory over Valencia at Mestalla.
The reigning champions were in irresistible form for the first 41 minutes as they looked likely to take a 3-0 lead into half time as their talismanic Argentine forward took his goal tally from two to five with a treble, but the hosts finished the first period brilliantly.
Helder Postiga produced two moments of excellence just before the break to bring the hosts within touching distance, but they were not able to capitalise in the second half as both defences remained solid.
Following their 3-1 defeat at Espanyol in their previous fixture, the Valencia side included three changes as Sergio Canales, Andres Guardado and debutant Dorlan Pabon replaced Jonas, Jeremy Mathieu and Sofiane Feghouli.
Barcelona last played on Wednesday as they drew with Atletico Madrid in the Supercopa de Espana, yet despite this coach Gerardo Martino only felt two changes were necessary for the tip to Mestalla as Pedro Rodriguez and Andres Iniesta came in for Alexis Sanchez and Xavi.
The visitors’ start was ominous for Valencia as an 11th minute Cesc Fabregas pass released Messi, who burst through the defence and poked the ball into the net from close range after riding challenges from Diego Alves and Ricardo Costa.
Valencia did improve as an attacking force before half time as Pabon forced a good stop from Victor Valdes, but Messi completed his hat-trick in the final six minutes of the half as he exploited space on the right before firing across Alves and then stroked Pedro’s squared pass in from around the penalty spot.
Barcelona’s dominance was undeniable but Miroslav Djukic’s side gave themselves a fight chance at the end the first half as Postiga first sent Canales’ right-wing cross into the top corner of the goal with a fantastic scissor-kick before heading an Ever Banega corner past Valdes from the front post.
After a strong end to the first half, Valencia came out after the restart showing excellent intensity and created the first chance when Postiga played Guardado into the inside left channel, but he hammered his effort over the crossbar.
Barcelona may have been exhibiting some poor defending but in attack they looked imperious.
As the hour mark approached, Messi had two opportunities to get his fourth goal as Alves first parried away a shot from distance before stopping a tame effort from the edge of the area.
With Valencia’s attacking threat stifled for the time being, Barcelona had another great opportunity as Iniesta’s chipped cross from the left was met by Pedro, but the winger could only head wide.
The final 20 minutes saw the two sides exchange possession on a regular basis as both pressed for more goals, but it was the roaming triumvirate of Neymar, Messi and Pedro that looked the more dangerous, with the Argentine missing two glorious chances just a few metres from goal.
The Argentine ran riot in the opening 40 minutes before Helder Postiga brought the hosts back into the game with a quick fire double just before the break.
The reigning champions were in irresistible form for the first 41 minutes as they looked likely to take a 3-0 lead into half time as their talismanic Argentine forward took his goal tally from two to five with a treble, but the hosts finished the first period brilliantly.
Helder Postiga produced two moments of excellence just before the break to bring the hosts within touching distance, but they were not able to capitalise in the second half as both defences remained solid.
Following their 3-1 defeat at Espanyol in their previous fixture, the Valencia side included three changes as Sergio Canales, Andres Guardado and debutant Dorlan Pabon replaced Jonas, Jeremy Mathieu and Sofiane Feghouli.
Barcelona last played on Wednesday as they drew with Atletico Madrid in the Supercopa de Espana, yet despite this coach Gerardo Martino only felt two changes were necessary for the tip to Mestalla as Pedro Rodriguez and Andres Iniesta came in for Alexis Sanchez and Xavi.
The visitors’ start was ominous for Valencia as an 11th minute Cesc Fabregas pass released Messi, who burst through the defence and poked the ball into the net from close range after riding challenges from Diego Alves and Ricardo Costa.
Valencia did improve as an attacking force before half time as Pabon forced a good stop from Victor Valdes, but Messi completed his hat-trick in the final six minutes of the half as he exploited space on the right before firing across Alves and then stroked Pedro’s squared pass in from around the penalty spot.
Barcelona’s dominance was undeniable but Miroslav Djukic’s side gave themselves a fight chance at the end the first half as Postiga first sent Canales’ right-wing cross into the top corner of the goal with a fantastic scissor-kick before heading an Ever Banega corner past Valdes from the front post.
After a strong end to the first half, Valencia came out after the restart showing excellent intensity and created the first chance when Postiga played Guardado into the inside left channel, but he hammered his effort over the crossbar.
Barcelona may have been exhibiting some poor defending but in attack they looked imperious.
As the hour mark approached, Messi had two opportunities to get his fourth goal as Alves first parried away a shot from distance before stopping a tame effort from the edge of the area.
With Valencia’s attacking threat stifled for the time being, Barcelona had another great opportunity as Iniesta’s chipped cross from the left was met by Pedro, but the winger could only head wide.
The final 20 minutes saw the two sides exchange possession on a regular basis as both pressed for more goals, but it was the roaming triumvirate of Neymar, Messi and Pedro that looked the more dangerous, with the Argentine missing two glorious chances just a few metres from goal.
Transfer deadline day.
Transfer deadline day.
ARSENAL UPDATE:
Reports from Spanish publication Marca state that Mesut Ozil has decided to STAY at Real Madrid, despite a €45 million bid from Arsene Wenger's men.
BREAKING NEWS:
- Liverpool have announced the signing of Thiago Ilori from Sporting. The deal was always expected to be completed today - especially after he watched his new side win at Anfield on Sunday.
- The first big bombshell of Deadline Day: AC Milan have confirmed that Kaka will rejoin the club from Real Madrid!
- Arsenal are expected to be busier than most before 23:00BST tonight, and it seems they got the ball rolling shortly after yesterday's win over Tottenham (better late than never, Arsene): the Gunners have made an enquiry for Chelsea striker Demba Ba, who could find his game time limited in a side featuring Fernando Torres, Samuel Eto'o, Romelu Lukaku and around 78 attacking midfielders.
Whether the Blues will be happy to loan to a rival remains to be seen, however.
- DONE DEAL!
Stoke City have completed the signing of Marko Arnautovic from Werder Bremen. The Austria international has signed a four year deal with Mark Hughes' men.
- Incoming news from AC Milan this morning:
Adriano Galliani may well be tied up with Kaka at the moment (now there's an image) but head coach Massimiliano Allegri has set his sights on defensive reinforcements in the shape of David Astori, who has long been linked with a move away from Cagliari.
"We have good defenders and I am happy with what we’ve got but Astori would be useful for many clubs, so we will see what happens," he said after his side beat Cagliari 3-1 last night.
The 26-year-old has already come within a hair's breadth of joining Napoli this summer, while Roma are also keeping an eye on things today.
- Yep, it finally happened: Gareth Bale has completed a move from Tottenham to Real Madrid. And the world can go back to spinning around again.
With the completion of the world record deal after a soul numbing period of negotiations (let's be honest, it was all getting a bit much) you be forgiven for forgetting about the young full mback who left Southampton to become a curse on Tottenham's first team. Here, Goal UK's Jay Jaffa examines Bale's astonishing rise from the struggling youngster to the latest Galactico it's a journey worthy of a happy ending, I think.
Here's Carlo Garganese on Kaka's Rossoneri return:
"The return of Kaka to Milan may excite some Rossoneri and Serie A nostalgists, but in truth it is a transfer that sums up all the difficulties of the Italian giants right now.
At 31, Kaka is injury prone and has rarely been a first team player at Madrid in the past four years. He is not the same Kaka who lit up San Siro and was once the best player in the world.
"When Milan sold Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic last year and released a whole host of legends such as Seedorf, Inzaghi, Nesta and Gattuso, they vowed to cut the wage bill and build a bright future with youngsters. Having barely spent this transfer market, in the closing days they have opted to splash out €12 million on Alessandro Matri a 29 year old forward who they didn't need and now a 31 year old injury prone Kaka.
"It doesn't fit with this new project and is unlikely to seriously improve the Rossoneri's chances of challenging for the Scudetto or making a big impact in the Champions League."
The Brazilian has signed a two year contract with the Rossoneri after completing a medical first thing this morning, after Adriano Galliani struck a deal with the player's representatives late last night. And it's all on a free transfer!
ARSENAL UPDATE:
Reports from Spanish publication Marca state that Mesut Ozil has decided to STAY at Real Madrid, despite a €45 million bid from Arsene Wenger's men.
BREAKING NEWS:
- Liverpool have announced the signing of Thiago Ilori from Sporting. The deal was always expected to be completed today - especially after he watched his new side win at Anfield on Sunday.
- The first big bombshell of Deadline Day: AC Milan have confirmed that Kaka will rejoin the club from Real Madrid!
- Arsenal are expected to be busier than most before 23:00BST tonight, and it seems they got the ball rolling shortly after yesterday's win over Tottenham (better late than never, Arsene): the Gunners have made an enquiry for Chelsea striker Demba Ba, who could find his game time limited in a side featuring Fernando Torres, Samuel Eto'o, Romelu Lukaku and around 78 attacking midfielders.
Whether the Blues will be happy to loan to a rival remains to be seen, however.
- DONE DEAL!
Stoke City have completed the signing of Marko Arnautovic from Werder Bremen. The Austria international has signed a four year deal with Mark Hughes' men.
- Incoming news from AC Milan this morning:
Adriano Galliani may well be tied up with Kaka at the moment (now there's an image) but head coach Massimiliano Allegri has set his sights on defensive reinforcements in the shape of David Astori, who has long been linked with a move away from Cagliari.
"We have good defenders and I am happy with what we’ve got but Astori would be useful for many clubs, so we will see what happens," he said after his side beat Cagliari 3-1 last night.
The 26-year-old has already come within a hair's breadth of joining Napoli this summer, while Roma are also keeping an eye on things today.
- Yep, it finally happened: Gareth Bale has completed a move from Tottenham to Real Madrid. And the world can go back to spinning around again.
With the completion of the world record deal after a soul numbing period of negotiations (let's be honest, it was all getting a bit much) you be forgiven for forgetting about the young full mback who left Southampton to become a curse on Tottenham's first team. Here, Goal UK's Jay Jaffa examines Bale's astonishing rise from the struggling youngster to the latest Galactico it's a journey worthy of a happy ending, I think.
Here's Carlo Garganese on Kaka's Rossoneri return:
"The return of Kaka to Milan may excite some Rossoneri and Serie A nostalgists, but in truth it is a transfer that sums up all the difficulties of the Italian giants right now.
At 31, Kaka is injury prone and has rarely been a first team player at Madrid in the past four years. He is not the same Kaka who lit up San Siro and was once the best player in the world.
"When Milan sold Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic last year and released a whole host of legends such as Seedorf, Inzaghi, Nesta and Gattuso, they vowed to cut the wage bill and build a bright future with youngsters. Having barely spent this transfer market, in the closing days they have opted to splash out €12 million on Alessandro Matri a 29 year old forward who they didn't need and now a 31 year old injury prone Kaka.
"It doesn't fit with this new project and is unlikely to seriously improve the Rossoneri's chances of challenging for the Scudetto or making a big impact in the Champions League."
The Brazilian has signed a two year contract with the Rossoneri after completing a medical first thing this morning, after Adriano Galliani struck a deal with the player's representatives late last night. And it's all on a free transfer!
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Arsenal 1-0 Tottenham: Giroud strike downs big-spending Spurs.
Arsenal 1-0 Tottenham: Giroud strike downs big-spending Spurs.
Arsenal beat Tottenham in the north London derby thanks to a tidy finish from Olivier Giroud.
The Frenchman struck the only goal of the game midway through the first half after cleverly clipping home Theo Walcott's low cross.
Nacho Monreal came close to doubling the lead with 11 minutes remaining after Hugo Lloris had parried Walcott's shot, but Kyle Walker was on hand to divert the danger.
Spurs' club record signing Erik Lamela was introduced 15 minutes from time but could not make a telling impact, while Sandro returned from a long term injury in place of Etienne Capoue, who was stretched off with what looked like a serious knock of his own.
Arsenal beat Tottenham in the north London derby thanks to a tidy finish from Olivier Giroud.
The Frenchman struck the only goal of the game midway through the first half after cleverly clipping home Theo Walcott's low cross.
Nacho Monreal came close to doubling the lead with 11 minutes remaining after Hugo Lloris had parried Walcott's shot, but Kyle Walker was on hand to divert the danger.
Spurs' club record signing Erik Lamela was introduced 15 minutes from time but could not make a telling impact, while Sandro returned from a long term injury in place of Etienne Capoue, who was stretched off with what looked like a serious knock of his own.
Liverpool 1-0 Manchester United: Sturridge inflicts first defeat on Moyes.
Liverpool 1-0 Manchester United: Sturridge inflicts first defeat on Moyes.
The England striker, on his birthday, was on hand to flick Daniel Agger's headed effort beyond David de Gea and into the net as Brendan Rodgers' side came out on top at Anfield.
Daniel Sturridge was the hero as his winning goal helped Liverpool beat Manchester United 1-0 at Anfield on Sunday.
The England striker flicked Daniel Agger's goal bound effort beyond David de Gea and Tom Cleverley on the line in the first half to grab the goal that proved to be the winner in a fiery Premier League encounter.
United battled in vain to come back into the game, but Simon Mignolet remained defiant as he kept his third clean sheet of the season.
Brendan Rodgers was forced to change his Liverpool starting XI for the first time in the Premier League this season as a groin injury kept Kolo Toure out. Martin Skrtel replaced the Ivorian at the heart of Liverpool’s defence alongside Daniel Agger.
Wayne Rooney was the notable absentee for the visitors the striker ruled out with a head injury with Antonio Valencia dropping to the bench as Ashley Young and Ryan Giggs replaced them.
With Tiago Ilori, Mamadou Sakho and Victor Moses all watching on from the stands ahead of potential moves to Anfield, the hosts had the perfect start with a goal inside four minutes.
Steven Gerrard’s corner was met by Agger and as his header flew towards goal, Sturridge reacted quickly to divert the ball into the back of the net from close range.
United reacted well to conceding so early and should have levelled on three occasions as Danny Welbeck and Robin van Persie both missed good chances.
Welbeck fired two shots straight at Simon Mignolet and Van Persie failed to react to a Giggs corner that had evaded a host of players inside the penalty area.
Rodgers’ side controlled the majority of the half with neat passing and fluid movement, but were unable to test David de Gea in the United goal.
Young who had been quiet in the first half went close to equalising for the visitors just after the break with United's best sight of goal. Liverpool failed to clear a corner but Young’s half volley struck Glen Johnson and deflected away.
The rivalry between the two sides began to intensify as the game reached the hour mark, with referee Andre Marriner issuing five yellow cards four of them to United players.
Red Devils substitute Nani stung the palms of Mignolet minutes after coming on but the hosts were able to keep their opponents at bay.
Van Persie fired wide following a Chicharito through ball and a fine De Gea save also denied Raheem Sterling in stoppage time as Liverpool clung on to record the victory.
Liverpool's win, however, was tempered by the departure of Johnson late in the game through injury. Watching England manager Roy Hodgson will have been particularly concerned given Phil Jones also limped out in the second half.
The England striker, on his birthday, was on hand to flick Daniel Agger's headed effort beyond David de Gea and into the net as Brendan Rodgers' side came out on top at Anfield.
The England striker flicked Daniel Agger's goal bound effort beyond David de Gea and Tom Cleverley on the line in the first half to grab the goal that proved to be the winner in a fiery Premier League encounter.
United battled in vain to come back into the game, but Simon Mignolet remained defiant as he kept his third clean sheet of the season.
Brendan Rodgers was forced to change his Liverpool starting XI for the first time in the Premier League this season as a groin injury kept Kolo Toure out. Martin Skrtel replaced the Ivorian at the heart of Liverpool’s defence alongside Daniel Agger.
Wayne Rooney was the notable absentee for the visitors the striker ruled out with a head injury with Antonio Valencia dropping to the bench as Ashley Young and Ryan Giggs replaced them.
With Tiago Ilori, Mamadou Sakho and Victor Moses all watching on from the stands ahead of potential moves to Anfield, the hosts had the perfect start with a goal inside four minutes.
Steven Gerrard’s corner was met by Agger and as his header flew towards goal, Sturridge reacted quickly to divert the ball into the back of the net from close range.
United reacted well to conceding so early and should have levelled on three occasions as Danny Welbeck and Robin van Persie both missed good chances.
Welbeck fired two shots straight at Simon Mignolet and Van Persie failed to react to a Giggs corner that had evaded a host of players inside the penalty area.
Rodgers’ side controlled the majority of the half with neat passing and fluid movement, but were unable to test David de Gea in the United goal.
Young who had been quiet in the first half went close to equalising for the visitors just after the break with United's best sight of goal. Liverpool failed to clear a corner but Young’s half volley struck Glen Johnson and deflected away.
The rivalry between the two sides began to intensify as the game reached the hour mark, with referee Andre Marriner issuing five yellow cards four of them to United players.
Red Devils substitute Nani stung the palms of Mignolet minutes after coming on but the hosts were able to keep their opponents at bay.
Van Persie fired wide following a Chicharito through ball and a fine De Gea save also denied Raheem Sterling in stoppage time as Liverpool clung on to record the victory.
Liverpool's win, however, was tempered by the departure of Johnson late in the game through injury. Watching England manager Roy Hodgson will have been particularly concerned given Phil Jones also limped out in the second half.
Real Madrid 3-1 Athletic Bilbao: Who needs Bale? Isco double troubles Basques.
Real Madrid 3-1 Athletic Bilbao: Who needs Bale? Isco double troubles Basques.
Goals from the playmaker and Cristiano Ronaldo ensured los Blancos maintained their 100 per cent Liga record.
An Isco double plus a Cristiano Ronaldo header ensured focus returned to matters on the pitch for Real Madrid following a comprehensive victory over Athletic Bilbao.
Gareth Bale's impending move to los Blancos has stolen the headlines in recent days but Isco was determined to ensure he would not be overshadowed by the €100 million transfer, putting in another outstanding performance.
The former Malaga man broke the deadlock midway through the first half, with Ronaldo, who appeared deflated as talks over a new contract rumble on, heading home his first of the season just before the break.
Isco netted again in the second half, although Ibai Gomez grabbed a deserved consolation goal for Athletic, who were dogged throughout.
With Bale's expected move still not confirmed before the early kick off, Carlo Ancelotti made just one change to his side that narrowly beat Granada on Monday as Sami Khedira added physicality to the midfield in Mesut Ozil's place.
Ander Herrera notably found himself among Athletic's substitutes, with the midfielder widely reported to be on the brink of a €36m move to Manchester United.
The hosts were in the ascendancy early on and carved out the game's first real chance 15 minutes in as Karim Benzema latched onto Sergio Ramos' lofted pass, but saw his weak chipped effort fall straight into Iago Herrerin's arms.
Ronaldo tested the goalkeeper with a fierce drive after 24 minutes and Ramos headed the resulting corner wide, as Pepe just missed out on a tap in at the far post.
They did not have to wait long to break the deadlock, however, as just two minutes later Benzema chipped a masterful ball over Athletic's defence and into Isco 15 yards out, who took a touch and tucked home.
After seeing Benat fire a free kick just wide for Athletic on the half hour, Benzema went close twice late in the half, first heading over and then seeing an effort from eight yards blocked after a neat one two with Alvaro Arbeloa down the right flank.
But it was Ronaldo who doubled the advantage, stealing in unmarked to get on the end of Angel Di Maria's whipped free kick and plant a firm header to the helpless Herrerin's left.
Madrid's tempo dropped somewhat after half time, but they retained a threat, with Herrerin called into action 10 minutes into the second half, racing off his line to deny Benzema as the Frenchman charged towards goal.
Ronaldo looked buoyed by his headed effort and fizzed a free kick towards the corner, but Herrerin plunged to his right and kept the ball out with a fine save.
And the hosts' pressure once again paid off after 72 minutes as Benzema took the ball into the penalty area, before chipping back to Isco on the edge of the box.
The Spain international lashed a right footed effort across goal, which deflected off an Athletic defender and looped into the opposite corner.
Ibai put Athletic on the scoresheet with 10 minutes to play, smashing home after Andoni Iraola had burst down the right flank and cut the ball back to Markel Susaeta, who miscued his effort into the half time substitute's path.
But it proved to be only a consolation as Madrid comfortably closed out their third league win from as many games this season.
Goals from the playmaker and Cristiano Ronaldo ensured los Blancos maintained their 100 per cent Liga record.
Gareth Bale's impending move to los Blancos has stolen the headlines in recent days but Isco was determined to ensure he would not be overshadowed by the €100 million transfer, putting in another outstanding performance.
The former Malaga man broke the deadlock midway through the first half, with Ronaldo, who appeared deflated as talks over a new contract rumble on, heading home his first of the season just before the break.
Isco netted again in the second half, although Ibai Gomez grabbed a deserved consolation goal for Athletic, who were dogged throughout.
With Bale's expected move still not confirmed before the early kick off, Carlo Ancelotti made just one change to his side that narrowly beat Granada on Monday as Sami Khedira added physicality to the midfield in Mesut Ozil's place.
Ander Herrera notably found himself among Athletic's substitutes, with the midfielder widely reported to be on the brink of a €36m move to Manchester United.
The hosts were in the ascendancy early on and carved out the game's first real chance 15 minutes in as Karim Benzema latched onto Sergio Ramos' lofted pass, but saw his weak chipped effort fall straight into Iago Herrerin's arms.
Ronaldo tested the goalkeeper with a fierce drive after 24 minutes and Ramos headed the resulting corner wide, as Pepe just missed out on a tap in at the far post.
They did not have to wait long to break the deadlock, however, as just two minutes later Benzema chipped a masterful ball over Athletic's defence and into Isco 15 yards out, who took a touch and tucked home.
After seeing Benat fire a free kick just wide for Athletic on the half hour, Benzema went close twice late in the half, first heading over and then seeing an effort from eight yards blocked after a neat one two with Alvaro Arbeloa down the right flank.
But it was Ronaldo who doubled the advantage, stealing in unmarked to get on the end of Angel Di Maria's whipped free kick and plant a firm header to the helpless Herrerin's left.
Madrid's tempo dropped somewhat after half time, but they retained a threat, with Herrerin called into action 10 minutes into the second half, racing off his line to deny Benzema as the Frenchman charged towards goal.
Ronaldo looked buoyed by his headed effort and fizzed a free kick towards the corner, but Herrerin plunged to his right and kept the ball out with a fine save.
And the hosts' pressure once again paid off after 72 minutes as Benzema took the ball into the penalty area, before chipping back to Isco on the edge of the box.
The Spain international lashed a right footed effort across goal, which deflected off an Athletic defender and looped into the opposite corner.
Ibai put Athletic on the scoresheet with 10 minutes to play, smashing home after Andoni Iraola had burst down the right flank and cut the ball back to Markel Susaeta, who miscued his effort into the half time substitute's path.
But it proved to be only a consolation as Madrid comfortably closed out their third league win from as many games this season.
Paris Saint Germain 2-0 Guingamp: Ibrahimovic seals dramatic win after stoppage time salvo.
The Sweden star struck just minutes after teenager Adrien Rabiot had given the Ligue 1 champions the lead in the dying moments at Parc des Princes.
The French champions appeared to be heading for a stalemate against their spirited opponents after 90 minutes of frustrating football for the home faithful, until the 18 year old bundled home a rebound in injury time before the Swede settled matters just before the final whistle.
PSG boss Laurent Blanc named an unchanged side from last week's 2-1 win away to Nantes, with Mamadou Sakho not involved in the squad as rumours of a move to Liverpool build.
Visitors Guingamp were without veteran striker Cedric Faure due to a calf injury, while Gregory Cerdan was also not included.
PSG came into the game looking for their first home win of the season and almost snatched the perfect start as Ibrahimovic curled a 25 yard free kick onto the post just two minutes in.
It was to very much set the tone for the early exchanges, with the hosts dominating much of the possession in midfield, but they struggled to unlock a determined Guingamp defence. The visitors themselves were a threat on the break as Claudio Beauvue and Sadio Diallo both went close.
Ten minutes before the break, the hosts who created a flurry of chances, with Thiago Silva’s header being denied by Mamadou Samassa in the six yard box.
Moments later it was the post to come to the visitors' rescue, with Thiago Silva once again foiled.
Samassa was then called into action as Thiago Motta released Cavani. The Uruguayan took the ball wide of the goalkeeper before finding Javier Pastore, but the 23 year old recovered well to deny the Argentinian.
PSG began brightly after the break, with Samassa coming to the rescue of his team again to parry away a low Cavani effort after a well worked corner.
But the three pronged attack of Ezequiel Lavezzi, Ibrahimovic and Cavani continued to be frustrated by a dogged Guingamp defence, with the Swede enduring a particularly difficult afternoon, skying an effort from 25 yards just after the hour mark.
Lavezzi did not enjoy much luck either, getting on the end of a brilliant ball from Motta to race away from his man, before hitting a tame drive straight at the keeper.
PSG continued to knock on the door and nearly broke the deadlock in spectacular circumstances when Cavani sent a powerful effort narrowly wide on 67 minutes, before setting up Ibrahimovic just a minute later, with the Swede also off target.
And the champions were nearly made to pay for their wastefulness in front of goal several minutes later when Mustapha Yatabare raced into the box, before shrugging off his man and firing wide.
It looked as though the visitors would hold on for a draw, until a whipped free kick was met by Alex, whose header was parried straight to substitute Rabiot, who applied a calm finish from close range.
And just two minutes later the win was sealed, when Ibrahimovic latched onto a long ball to round Samassa and roll the ball into an empty net.
Juventus 4-1 Lazio: Tevez on target as Conte's men cruise.
Juventus 4-1 Lazio: Tevez on target as Conte's men cruise.
The Bianconeri gave Vladimir Petkovic's men their second thumping inside a matter of weeks on Saturday night.
Juventus maintained their 100 per cent record in Serie A thanks to a 4-1 win over Lazio.
Arturo Vidal scored twice in the first half to give the champions the edge but Miroslav Klose's reply for the Romans ensured that the result was not clear cut at the interval.
Antonio Conte's men sealed the three points when Mirko Vucinic struck just before the hour mark, before Lazio's Hernanes was sent off, and Carlos Tevez capped a fine individual display with his side's fourth on 80 minutes.
Both sides were unchanged from their respective opening day victories and both played their part in an entertaining start to the game.
Hernanes carved out the first real opportunity for the visitors, but could only shoot straight at Gianluigi Buffon having connected with a chipped ball over the Juve defence.
The hosts replied with an early effort of their own, with Vucinic denied by a fine piece of defending from Lorik Cana as he looked to get a shot off after Andrea Pirlo had played him through.
The crowd would not be forced to wait long for a goal, though, as Vidal opened the scoring with just 14 minutes on the clock.
The Chilean latched on to a fabulous chip over the defence from Paul Pogba and showed remarkable composure to poke the ball underneath goalkeeper Federico Marchetti.
And, 12 minutes later, Vidal had his second courtesy of a cool side-footed finish after Leonardo Bonucci had surged out of the Juventus defence to play his team mate through on goal.
Lazio had, in truth, played a more prominent role in the game than the scoreline suggested, and so there was a sense of justice when Klose got on the scoresheet two minutes after Vidal's second.
The striker was the quickest to react to a rebound from a Hernanes effort and slotted expertly beyond Buffon to bring his team back into the game.
The goalmouth action cooled somewhat after that goal, though Lazio went close on two occasions as Antonio Candreva's free kick whistled past the post and Buffon had to be alert to keep out Hernanes' drive.
Lazio ended the first half undoubtedly on top, but just four minutes after the restart the hosts' two goal advantage was restored.
Bonucci again provided the assist, chipping a long pass from the back into the path of Vucinic, who held off his man expertly on the turn before poking past Marchetti.
And Lazio's task would become even more difficult on the hour mark as Hernanes, in a clear show of frustration, attempted to handle a cross from the left into the Juve goal and subsequently saw a deserved second yellow card.
Tevez almost rubbed salt in Lazio wounds in the 71st minute, only for his left-footed effort from the edge of the box to come back off the bar.
But the Argentine got his goal soon after, his third in as many games for his new club, as he swept the ball home from distance following an intelligent dummy from Vucinic.
The Bianconeri gave Vladimir Petkovic's men their second thumping inside a matter of weeks on Saturday night.
Arturo Vidal scored twice in the first half to give the champions the edge but Miroslav Klose's reply for the Romans ensured that the result was not clear cut at the interval.
Antonio Conte's men sealed the three points when Mirko Vucinic struck just before the hour mark, before Lazio's Hernanes was sent off, and Carlos Tevez capped a fine individual display with his side's fourth on 80 minutes.
Both sides were unchanged from their respective opening day victories and both played their part in an entertaining start to the game.
Hernanes carved out the first real opportunity for the visitors, but could only shoot straight at Gianluigi Buffon having connected with a chipped ball over the Juve defence.
The hosts replied with an early effort of their own, with Vucinic denied by a fine piece of defending from Lorik Cana as he looked to get a shot off after Andrea Pirlo had played him through.
The crowd would not be forced to wait long for a goal, though, as Vidal opened the scoring with just 14 minutes on the clock.
The Chilean latched on to a fabulous chip over the defence from Paul Pogba and showed remarkable composure to poke the ball underneath goalkeeper Federico Marchetti.
And, 12 minutes later, Vidal had his second courtesy of a cool side-footed finish after Leonardo Bonucci had surged out of the Juventus defence to play his team mate through on goal.
Lazio had, in truth, played a more prominent role in the game than the scoreline suggested, and so there was a sense of justice when Klose got on the scoresheet two minutes after Vidal's second.
The striker was the quickest to react to a rebound from a Hernanes effort and slotted expertly beyond Buffon to bring his team back into the game.
The goalmouth action cooled somewhat after that goal, though Lazio went close on two occasions as Antonio Candreva's free kick whistled past the post and Buffon had to be alert to keep out Hernanes' drive.
Lazio ended the first half undoubtedly on top, but just four minutes after the restart the hosts' two goal advantage was restored.
Bonucci again provided the assist, chipping a long pass from the back into the path of Vucinic, who held off his man expertly on the turn before poking past Marchetti.
And Lazio's task would become even more difficult on the hour mark as Hernanes, in a clear show of frustration, attempted to handle a cross from the left into the Juve goal and subsequently saw a deserved second yellow card.
Tevez almost rubbed salt in Lazio wounds in the 71st minute, only for his left-footed effort from the edge of the box to come back off the bar.
But the Argentine got his goal soon after, his third in as many games for his new club, as he swept the ball home from distance following an intelligent dummy from Vucinic.
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Bayern Munich 2-2 Chelsea (5-4 on pens): Lukaku miss hands Guardiola's men the spoils.
Bayern Munich 2-2 Chelsea (5-4 on pens): Lukaku miss hands Guardiola's men the spoils.
Javi Martinez struck a dramatic equaliser in the last seconds of extra time to force the game to spot kicks, with Manuel Neuer saving Romelu Lukaku's decisive penalty.
Bayern Munich clinched UEFA Super Cup victory over Chelsea on penalties after a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Eden Arena in Prague on Friday.
The Premier League outfit took the lead early in the first half when Fernando Torres brilliantly finished off a flowing move, but they were pegged back shortly after the break by a long distance Franck Ribery strike.
Prior to the game going to extra time, Jose Mourinho's men lost Ramires to a second bookable offence, but they were back in front when Eden Hazard's effort deceived Manuel Neuer to restore their advantage.
However, a tap in from substitute Javi Martinez at the death sent the game to penalties, where Neuer's save from Romelu Lukaku's weak effort handed Bayern the trophy.
With doubts over the fitness of Martinez and Bastian Schweinsteiger, Bayern boss Guardiola elected to start right-back Philipp Lahm in a holding midfield position.
Mourinho, meanwhile, handed Torres a return to action after the striker had been benched for Monday's 0-0 Premier League draw with Manchester United at Old Trafford.
And it did not take long for the Spaniard to reward his manager's faith, as he got on the scoresheet with just eight minutes on the clock.
Hazard was the catalyst, with the Belgian taking out two opponents with a jinking run before playing out wide to Andre Schurrle, who pulled back for Torres to smash the ball home.
Ribery almost provided a reply courtesy of a brilliant exchange with Mario Mandzukic at the edge of the Chelsea box, but he could not have expected Cech to somehow keep out his low curling effort with fantastic dive down to his left.
And he fired over from a similar position 10 minutes before the half time whistle as Bayern were frustrated in their efforts to restore parity.
However, it did not take long for the newly named UEFA Best Player in Europe's quality to shine through in the second period.
The Chelsea defence appeared to have the 30 year old under control as he ambled toward the box two minutes after the restart but, from nothing, the winger produced a clever shift onto his right before thrashing past Cech at his near post to level.
The goal understandably buoyed a Bayern side reliant on possession and forced Chelsea into attempting to replicate the sort of rearguard performance familiar throughout their victorious 2011-12 Champions League campaign.
But Mourinho's men were the recipients of the best opportunities of the second half, with Branislav Ivanovic heading onto the bar and David Luiz nodding straight at Neuer after Oscar had dithered when through on goal.
Unfortunately for the Portuguese boss, his side's hopes would receive a sizeable blow with just four minutes of normal time remaining as Ramires' poor challenge on substitute Mario Gotze brought him a second yellow card and ended his participation.
But incredibly, it was Chelsea who took the lead three minutes into added time.
Hazard's well hit shot from the edge of the box looked destined for the safety of Neuer's gloves but the Germany international somehow misjudged the bounce and allowed the ball through his hands into the back of the net.
A series of fabulous saves from Cech in the second half of added time from Manduzkic, Toni Kroos, Xherdan Shaqiri and Ribery looked to have clinched the trophy for Chelsea, but there was still time for more drama.
After 15 minutes of seemingly unrelenting pressure, substitute Martinez was the recipient of a fortunate bounce in the Chelsea area with just seconds remaining and tapped the ball past Cech to send the game to penalties.
Much like they had been throughout a fabulous contest, the two teams were faultless from the spot, but with Lukaku looking set to send the shootout to sudden-death, the Belgian produced a weak effort that Neuer kept out down to his left.
Javi Martinez struck a dramatic equaliser in the last seconds of extra time to force the game to spot kicks, with Manuel Neuer saving Romelu Lukaku's decisive penalty.
The Premier League outfit took the lead early in the first half when Fernando Torres brilliantly finished off a flowing move, but they were pegged back shortly after the break by a long distance Franck Ribery strike.
Prior to the game going to extra time, Jose Mourinho's men lost Ramires to a second bookable offence, but they were back in front when Eden Hazard's effort deceived Manuel Neuer to restore their advantage.
However, a tap in from substitute Javi Martinez at the death sent the game to penalties, where Neuer's save from Romelu Lukaku's weak effort handed Bayern the trophy.
With doubts over the fitness of Martinez and Bastian Schweinsteiger, Bayern boss Guardiola elected to start right-back Philipp Lahm in a holding midfield position.
Mourinho, meanwhile, handed Torres a return to action after the striker had been benched for Monday's 0-0 Premier League draw with Manchester United at Old Trafford.
And it did not take long for the Spaniard to reward his manager's faith, as he got on the scoresheet with just eight minutes on the clock.
Hazard was the catalyst, with the Belgian taking out two opponents with a jinking run before playing out wide to Andre Schurrle, who pulled back for Torres to smash the ball home.
Ribery almost provided a reply courtesy of a brilliant exchange with Mario Mandzukic at the edge of the Chelsea box, but he could not have expected Cech to somehow keep out his low curling effort with fantastic dive down to his left.
And he fired over from a similar position 10 minutes before the half time whistle as Bayern were frustrated in their efforts to restore parity.
However, it did not take long for the newly named UEFA Best Player in Europe's quality to shine through in the second period.
The Chelsea defence appeared to have the 30 year old under control as he ambled toward the box two minutes after the restart but, from nothing, the winger produced a clever shift onto his right before thrashing past Cech at his near post to level.
The goal understandably buoyed a Bayern side reliant on possession and forced Chelsea into attempting to replicate the sort of rearguard performance familiar throughout their victorious 2011-12 Champions League campaign.
But Mourinho's men were the recipients of the best opportunities of the second half, with Branislav Ivanovic heading onto the bar and David Luiz nodding straight at Neuer after Oscar had dithered when through on goal.
Unfortunately for the Portuguese boss, his side's hopes would receive a sizeable blow with just four minutes of normal time remaining as Ramires' poor challenge on substitute Mario Gotze brought him a second yellow card and ended his participation.
But incredibly, it was Chelsea who took the lead three minutes into added time.
Hazard's well hit shot from the edge of the box looked destined for the safety of Neuer's gloves but the Germany international somehow misjudged the bounce and allowed the ball through his hands into the back of the net.
A series of fabulous saves from Cech in the second half of added time from Manduzkic, Toni Kroos, Xherdan Shaqiri and Ribery looked to have clinched the trophy for Chelsea, but there was still time for more drama.
After 15 minutes of seemingly unrelenting pressure, substitute Martinez was the recipient of a fortunate bounce in the Chelsea area with just seconds remaining and tapped the ball past Cech to send the game to penalties.
Much like they had been throughout a fabulous contest, the two teams were faultless from the spot, but with Lukaku looking set to send the shootout to sudden-death, the Belgian produced a weak effort that Neuer kept out down to his left.
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