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The world's best-paid sports teams

2012-05-25T01:34:00.001-07:00

Barcelona's players are the best paid in the world according to a new report. The team kept its No. 1 place on the earnings table with each player taking home an average annual salary of $8.6 million (£5.2 million). That's a whopping $166,934 (£101,160) per week and a 10% rise on last year.

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1. Barcelona FC $8.6 million average

2. Real Madrid $7.7 million

3. Manchester City $7.4 million

4. Chelsea $6.7 million

5. LA Lakers $6.2 million

6. New York Yankees $6.1 million

7. AC Milan $6.1 million

8. Bayern Munich $5.9 million

9. Philadelphia Phillies $5.8 million

10. Inter Milan $5.7 million

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Barcelona is best-paid sports team, with players earning average of $8.6 million a year
European football clubs dominate the list, taking seven of top 10 spots
Raises questions over the effectiveness of UEFA's Financial Fair Play regulations
NBA is is still best-paid league in the world with average annual salaries of $4.29 million

(CNN) -- If Barcelona's players were driven to tears after last week's shock Champions League exit, they could at least rely on pocketfuls of cash to ease the pain.

Sure, the world's best football team has slipped from its throne in recent weeks after losing to Chelsea in a nail-biting European semifinal at Camp Nou and also relinquishing the Spanish crown to Real Madrid.

But hold your pity. This, after all, is the best-paid team on the planet, with each of its players earning an average $8.6 million a year according to a new report -- a 10% increase on the previous year.

Losing hurts. But the Spanish team, led by record-breaking goal scorer Lionel Messi, can take some comfort in pocketing an average $166,934 each in wages every week.

The two-time FIFA Club World Cup champions top the list of the highest-paid sports teams, revealed by researchers Sporting Intelligence. The report looked at the average salaries of 278 teams in 14 leagues across 10 countries.

Petra Kvitova of the Czech Republic and Novak Djokovic of Serbia will be hoping to defend their Wimbledon titles in July -- earning a 4.5% increase in prize money if they do. Singles champions will now receive £1.15 millon ($1.85 million).

Wimbledon champions - £1.15 million

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Wimbledon stars' pay increase

Balotelli's first-team debut came in December 2007 as a subsitute with Internazionale. Three days later the 17-year-old scored two goals during Inter's 4-1 Coppa Italia win against Reggina.

A promising start for Inter Milan

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The highs and lows of Mario Balotelli

City wins soccer battle for Manchester

Real Madrid followed close behind in second place with its players earning an average $8.6 million a year. That's a whopping $166,934 per week and a 6% rise on last year.

European soccer teams dominated the list, claiming seven of the top 10 spots. And as their billionaire owners continue to spend big on top-level players, traditional American sports such as baseball and basketball are being pushed down the list.

Despite not winning a English league title since 1968, Manchester City moved up the earnings rankings from 10th to third this year -- largely thanks to the oil-rich deep pockets of owner Sheikh Mansour.

The Abu Dhabi United Group chief has spent hundreds of millions of pounds on star players since buying the club in August 2008.

City players now enjoy average annual salaries of $7.4 million, or around $142,389 per week. And after defeating rivals Manchester United in a Premier League battle watched by 600 million people worldwide on Tuesday, Mansour will be hoping to see returns on his mega investments.

Likewise Russian billionaire Roman Abromovich will be eager for his Chelsea team -- which climbed from sixth to fourth on the rich list -- to earn their keep and deliver a Champions League title in the May 19 final. His players currently boast an average $6.7 million a year -- around $130,690 a week.

Judging by the million-dollar football salaries, you'd be forgiven for thinking the UEFA's Financial Fair Play regulations -- agreed in 2009 as a way of controlling clubs' ever-rising expenditure -- had done little to stem spending.

"It is possible but by no means certain that some wage restraint at some European football clubs is on the horizon as a result of new Financial Fair Play rules being introduced by UEFA, the governing body of football across Europe. But the effectiveness of UEFA's policing remains to be seen," the Sporting Intelligence report found.

The biggest, richest clubs will almost certainly continue to generate massive sums, and therefore continue to fund growing salary bills
Sports Intelligence

"And in any case, the biggest, richest clubs will almost certainly continue to generate massive sums, and therefore continue to fund growing salary bills."

American basketball franchise the LA Lakers are the first non-football team on the list, coming in at fifth with an average yearly salary of $6.2 million -- or $120,732 per week.

Next is baseball's New York Yankees in sixth place, having been top when the list was originally published two years ago. The report's authors say the plummet is partly due to wages being restricted in the U.S. since 2010, while in Europe the amounts spent on top players continues to rise.

Rounding out the top 10 were baseball's Philadelphia Phillies, earning an average $5.8 million a year, and Italian soccer team Inter Milan on $5.7 million.

Despite the NBA claiming just two teams in the top-24, basketball is still the best-paid league in the world with players earning average annual salaries of $4.29 million.

In comparison, Spain's La Liga is skewed towards the top end with Barcelona players earning 22 times more than the lowest teams in the 20-club league.

Figures are from the in-progress seasons in NBA basketball, NHL ice hockey, MLB baseball and MLS football, and from the most recently completed seasons for all other teams, including the major leagues of European football, AFL Aussie Rules and NPB Japanese baseball.

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Drogba confirms he is to leave Chelsea

2012-05-25T01:31:00.003-07:00

May 23, 2012 -- Updated 1229 GMT (2029 HKT)

Didier Drogba leaves Chelsea

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba confirms he is to leave the English club in June
Ivory Coast forward sealed Chelsea's first European Champions League on Saturday
The 34-year-old has scored 157 goals in 341 appearances since joining in 2004
Drogba has been linked with a move to China and says Chelsea will remain in his heart

(CNN) -- Didier Drogba has confirmed he is leaving Chelsea, a decision which means the striker's last kick of a ball for the English club will be the penalty that sealed a first European Champions League crown on Saturday.

The Ivory Coast forward scored the decisive spot kick as Chelsea defeated Bayern Munich to secure club football's most coveted trophy, but he is to seek pastures new when his contract expires in June.

The 34-year-old has scored 157 goals in 341 appearances since he signed for the west London club from French side Marseille back in 2004 and he has been linked with a big-money move to China.

He told Chelsea's official website: "I wanted to put an end to all the speculation and confirm that I am leaving.

Chelsea win Champions League after shoot out drama in Munich

Champions League round up

Blues cheer Chelsea triumph

"It has been a very difficult decision for me to make and I am very proud of what we have achieved but the time is right for a new challenge for me."

Drogba's eight years at Stamford Bridge have been littered with success. He won three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups and one European Champions League.

He has finished as the Premier League's top scorer on two occasions and has twice been voted the Players' Player of the Year.

"As a team we have accomplished so much and have won every single trophy possible," he added.

"Saturday was a very special moment for everyone at the club and for all the fans, and I am very proud to have played my part in bringing many trophies to this club, which has been my home for the last eight years.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at the club especially (Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich) and my teammates, many of whom have become very close friends and will be my friends for life.

CNN blog: Fading Chelsea bury Bayern's dream

As a team we have accomplished so much and have won every single trophy possible
Didier Drogba

"I would also like to say a very special thank you to the Chelsea fans who have shown me so much love and support over the years. I wish the club all the best and continued success for the future -- you will always be in my heart."

Drogba was signed by Jose Mourinho, who now coaches Spanish giants Real Madrid, and has spearheaded Chelsea's front line for the best part of a decade.

He has the reputation of being a big-game player and has scored nine goals in cup final matches for Chelsea. Drogba opened talks last year about extending his contract but the two parties could not reach an agreement.

Chelsea chief executive Ron Gourlay said that Drogba will always be a part of the club's family.

"He is certainly leaving on a high after Saturday night but he feels the time is right for a new challenge," Gourlay told the club's website.

Jubilant Chelsea parade Champions League trophy

"He has been a consummate professional during his entire time here and as one of the natural leaders in our squad he has been an inspiration to a lot of our younger players.

"We have known for some time that this outcome was likely but Didier and the club only made a final decision on that in the last couple of days, because for obvious reasons neither Didier nor the club wanted to distract focus away from the Champions League Final."

Speculation in recent days has linked Drogba with a move to China and a reunion with former Chelsea striking partner Nicolas Anelka, who is now player-manager of Shanghai Shenhua.

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Prison, persecution and football: How Ukraine's Euro 2012 dream turned sour

2012-05-25T01:28:00.000-07:00

May 8, 2012 -- Updated 1510 GMT (2310 HKT)

Next month sees the start of football's European Championships, arguably the toughest competition in world football. Ukraine will co-host the event with Poland, but it has been overshadowed by the treatment of former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, who has been in prison since last October on charges of abuse of power.

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Europe's Ukrainian dilemma

Bruised and battered

Like mother like daughter

Political football

The Orange Revolution

Mr. President

Cover girl

All smiles

Regime change

Predicting a riot

Sun sets on Kiev?

Saying goodbye

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

As Euro 2012 approaches, co-hosts Ukraine under fire over jailing of ex-PM
Yulia Tymoshenko alleges they are political charges and that she was beaten in prison
EU leaders are boycotting the finals over her treatment
CNN talks to her daughter Eugenia and asks what went wrong?

(CNN) -- No one used the word reward, but the subtext was clear for all to see.

In April 2007, when Poland and Ukraine were surprisingly awarded the right to co-host the 2012 European Championship -- one of international football's top tournaments after the World Cup -- both countries' delegations exploded with joy.

For the Ukrainians it was especially poignant. At the center of the celebrations was President Viktor Yushchenko, who had come to power leading the 2004 Orange Revolution, ignited when the election battle between him and the then Prime Minister Viktor Yanukovych was allegedly riddled with fraud.

Massive street protests swept away the old regime, whose last desperate attempt to cling on to power, according to supporters of Yushchenko, was a plot to poison the challenger. Yushchenko barely survived.

But survive he did, and the chance to host Euro 2012 was redemption. Ukraine was finally, post communism, moving towards democracy and the rule of law. Euro 2012 represented a chance, as the Olympics did in Seoul and Tokyo decades before, for sport to welcome Ukraine into the club of free nations.

Tymoshenko claims beatings in jail

Daughter on Tymoshenko's jail ordeal

Former Ukrainian PM found guilty

Shevchenko wants to end on high note

"We will be able to show millions of fans the unforgettable charm of our cities and the history they have preserved so beautifully," Yushchenko said when Ukraine's joint bid was selected to host the tournament.

"And put on display of Slav hospitality and culture."

A coronation

The final in Kiev on July 1, 2012, was to be the coronation. But with a month to go until Ukraine was to enjoy its moment in the sun, Yushchenko's words ring hollow. He was voted out of power in 2010, his Orange Revolution unraveling as, according to his supporters, the new president Yanukovych -- ironically the man he defeated in 2004 -- tries to roll back the gains made eight years ago.

And far from highlighting Ukraine's development, Euro 2012 has done the opposite. Instead European statesmen and women are boycotting the event as the blond heroine of the Orange Revolution, former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, languishes in a prison cell thanks to what her supporters claim are spurious political charges.

Last week her family released pictures of what they say is proof that Tymoshenko was beaten up in prison, which the Ukrainian government denies.

"Her condition is worsening, her physical condition," her daughter Eugenia Tymoshenko told CNN.

"That was after eight days of hunger strike. She was already much weaker because of the attacks when they beat her on April 20. Because of her protest her morale is very strong (but) we have asked her to stop her hunger strike."

Tymoshenko has been in prison since October last year. She received a seven-year sentence for abuse of power over the signing of a gas deal with Russia that the current president deemed detrimental to the national interest. But few outside of Ukraine saw it as anything other than the persecution of a political rival.

"Once she was arrested, there was a whole machine that started working," said Eugenia.

"They wanted to keep her in jail as her popularity was growing. She is now more popular. It is mostly fear that moved him and his people to keep her there until the (parliamentary) elections in October this year."

Russian prime minister Vladimir Putin has spoken out against European leaders' boycott of Ukraine's Euro 2012 matches, saying sport and politics should not mix.

Putin's policy

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Putin criticizes Euro 2012 boycott

All 16 competing nations at Euro 2012 will head to Poland and Ukraine next year dreaming of reaching the final at Kiev's Olympic Stadium on July 1. The venue in the Ukrainian capital has been renovated ahead of the championship, having originally been constructed in the 1920's. In addtion to the final, the Olympic Stadium will also host a quarterfinal and some Group D matches.

Olympic Stadium, Kiev

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The stadiums of Euro 2012

The Olympic Stadium in Kiev has been revamped at an estimated cost of $681 million, according to German broadcaster Deutsche Welle. It opened on November 11 with a game between Ukraine and Germany.

Ready to play host

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Euro 2012: Poland and Ukraine race to be ready

"It's just political repression and they have moved to physical destruction. That has become critical. My mother is now on hunger strike because other political prisoners are suffering in jail with no medical help."

Political controversy

The pictures of Tymoshenko, baring her bruises to the camera, have created a firestorm in Europe's corridors of power. When it emerged that Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel was considering a boycott of the event to protest Tymoshenko's treatment, other EU leaders followed suit.

EU president Herman Van Rompuy has said he won't attend -- as has Jose Manuel Barroso, president of the European Commission, who less than 12 months ago had met with President Yanukovych and was presented with an official Euro 2012 match ball. The governments of Austria and Belgium have all said they will not be attending. Poland's opposition, who were in power when the Euros were awarded, has called for Ukraine's matches to be moved to Warsaw. The British and German governments are re-evaluating their positions.

Even some of the players have spoken out. Germany captain Philipp Lahm told newspaper Der Spiegel that he did not find his "views of democratic fundamental rights, human rights, personal freedom or press freedom to be reflected in the present political situation in Ukraine."

While Russian premier Vladimir Putin has criticized the boycotts -- stating that "you can't mix politics, business and other issues with sport" -- and the Ukrainian foreign ministry has condemned the outcry for causing "damage to the interests of millions of ordinary Ukrainians that vote for various political parties or are not interested in politics at all," others point the finger of blame for the crisis at the Ukrainian government.

"There has been progress in many ways and the last round of elections that elected Yanukovych was largely free and fair," admitted Hugh Williamson, Europe and Central Asia director of Human Rights Watch.

"But we have particular concerns about what Yanukovych has done in prosecuting his political opponents. Few (Ukrainian government figures) have spoken out about her (Tymoshenko's) mistreatment and there's clear evidence that the charges against her are politically motivated."

Should fans boycott?

While Human Rights Watch stops short of calling for a fan boycott of the tournament, it does support moves by political leaders to make a stand.

We will be able to show millions of fans the unforgettable charm of our cities
Former president Viktor Yushchenko

"Should politicians watch matches? We think they should speak out clearly. If they decide to not see a match ... we welcome that that is a clear signal," Williamson said.

"One could see a more extreme case with China and the (2008) Olympics. There's a clear risk that by allowing such countries to host such sporting contests, it legitimizes their actions."

Yet the scandal has highlighted a much more fundamental tension at the heart of Ukrainian society: whether, as those that led the Orange Revolution contest, Ukraine's future lays westwards, towards the EU; or whether its future is in the east and with Russia, the direction in which the current president is moving.

"The story of the European Championships was supposed to be bridge building between the two different Europes, cooperation across borders between east and west," argued Dr. Andrew Wilson, an expert in Ukrainian politics at Britain's University College London.

"But no, the story now is the good performance of Poland. Their success is in stark contrast with the problems in Ukraine."

He also suggested that the criticism that has followed the Tymoshenko case could push many Ukrainians away from EU integration, and towards the Kremlin's sphere of influence.

"Yes the boycott will have an effect," Wilson said.

"Prestige matters to this guy Yanukovych. They hoped the Euros would give them prestige. The argument that Ukrainians will turn to Russia is one made by Ukrainians. They say: 'Criticize us after we've made it, not before.' "

Not everyone is sympathetic to Tymoshenko's plight in Ukraine. President Yanukovych has repeatedly said that there was a criminal case to answer for. "If Tymoshenko were looking for a compromise she would tell the truth to the Ukrainian people about why she broke the law," he told British newspaper The Times in a bellicose interview last year.

It's just political repression and they have moved to physical destruction
Yulia Tymoshenko's daughter Eugenia

Orange fatigue

And others point to Tymoshenko's poor political performance while prime minister for the lack of sympathy she has received in Ukraine.

"The Orange Revolution was a huge disappointment," explained Wilson.

"Media improved, civil society is stronger, but the Orange leaders fought like rats in a sack, especially Tymoshenko and former President Yushchenko. After five years of infighting, there was Orange fatigue."

Others in Ukraine point to the the failure of arguably the most infamous sporting boycott in history: the decision by the U.S. to snub the 1980 Moscow Olympics in protest at the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan. The Soviets returned the favor four years after for the 1984 Los Angeles Games.

"The experience of boycotting the Olympic Games of 1980 in Moscow by the West and the counter strike (by the) Socialist camp of the Games in Los Angeles did not influence political events too much but spoiled the careers of some great athletes," says Oleg Zadernovsky, a Ukrainian sports journalist who writes for World Soccer magazine.

"The whole country expects something similar to a game of football with two halves.

The issue of moving the tournament [to Poland] was not considered even theoretically
Markiyan Lubkivskyi

"At first Ukrainians would like to host with honor and dignity the biggest ever sporting event on its territory, while the second half will start in October this year when many of them will go to the ballot boxes to support opposition parties who promise to free Yulia Tymoshenko."

Yet for all the pressure, the tournament is unlikely to be moved. In a statement, the head of Ukraine's Euro 2012 organizing committee Markiyan Lubkivskyi admitted that while "there are certain appeals by European politicians to UEFA" over the issue of Tymoshenko as well as a myriad of other security concerns, "the issue of moving the tournament (to Poland) was not considered even theoretically. It is impossible from a technical point of view or otherwise."

But as the political row rages, Tymoshenko remains in jail on hunger strike as Ukraine's reputation crumbles. What once seemed like a reward now looks like a curse. Eugenia Tymoshenko believes that the blame rests with one man.

"The political boycott is the result of the government and the actions of President Yanukovych that are against European standards that the EU wants to see," she said.

"The previous government had given (Ukraine) this wondrous opportunity for this celebration of sport with the European Championships.

"And I think European leaders do not want to be see (the president) use this politically, using repression and torture against political opponents."

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Campbell baffled as Hodgson omits Ferdinand from Euro 2012 squad

2012-05-25T01:23:00.002-07:00

May 17, 2012 -- Updated 1047 GMT (1847 HKT)

Campbell on Dalglish sacking, England selection

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

England coach Roy Hodgson omits Rio Ferdinand from Euro 2012 squad
Former England defender Sol Campbell tells CNN he's baffled by the decision
John Terry, the former England captain, is selected in the 23-man squad
Liverpool's Steven Gerrard will captain the side, Hodgson reveals

(CNN) -- Former England defender Sol Campbell has told CNN World Sport he is baffled by England coach Roy Hodgson's decision to omit Rio Ferdinand from the forthcoming Euro 2012 tournament.

Hodgson insisted he had decided to exclude the 33-year-old Manchester United center-back from his 23-man squad for purely footballing reasons.

But Campbell, who won 73 caps and played in three World Cup campaigns for his England, thinks Hodgson's call has more to do with off-field concerns.

Former England captain John Terry has been included in the squad, despite awaiting trial on charges he racially abused Rio's brother Anton during an English Premier League match in October. Terry denies the allegations.

Did Manchester City win the title -- or did United lose it?

Which countries have reached Euro 2012?

The Olympic Stadium in Kiev has been revamped at an estimated cost of $681 million, according to German broadcaster Deutsche Welle. It opened on November 11 with a game between Ukraine and Germany.

Ready to play host

HIDE CAPTION

Euro 2012: Poland and Ukraine race to be ready

Terry was stripped of the captaincy over the affair, leading to the resignation of Fabio Capello, and Campbell is convinced the ongoing court case involving the Chelsea player was a factor in Hodgson's decision.

"I don't know what's gone on," he told CNN. "I don't know the conversation Roy Hodgson has had with John Terry or Rio Ferdinand. That's going to probably be kept quiet.

"But I think it did play a small, or a big part in it, because you're away for four to six weeks together, (Roy is) probably thinking, maybe something might happen at the camp.

"But you can't say for football reasons Rio Ferdinand shouldn't be going because he's experienced, he knows how to play football, he's an excellent defender, he's been fantastic for his club and country, especially in the last three months."

Hodgson said his conversations with both players would remain private though he did reveal Ferdinand was gracious and wished England well for the competition.

Of Terry Hodgson, the former Liverpool manager, said: "I realized that when I selected him there would be people who would raise eyebrows but that's the decision that I've made, that's the decision I shall live with."

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You need all your experienced players ... Rio knows his way around all these tournaments
Sol Campbell

Ferdinand took to social networking site Twitter to express his disappointment at missing out, saying: "Absolutely loved playing for England. To say I'm gutted is an understatement of the highest order."

Campbell believes Ferdinand's vast experience on the international stage will prove a big miss for Hodgson's side.

"I can't believe it," he told CNN. "He's played the last 10, 12 games for Manchester United, he's played excellently, he's fit as a fiddle.

"You need all your experienced players in a tournament like this. If you want younger players who are coming in and learning their way around international football, start with them in a campaign, at the beginning of your qualifying.

"Start not at the end, when you need the most experienced players at the tournament. Rio knows his way around all these tournaments. You need characters like that."

Campbell, who played in six consecutive major tournaments for his country between 1996 and 2006, did back Hodgson's decision to hand Steven Gerrard the captain's armband though.

The Liverpool skipper has 90 caps to his name since making his debut in 2000 and Campbell said: "I'm surprised Stevie didn't become captain sooner.

"He's always seemed to be overlooked but he's an excellent captain for his club, Liverpool, and I'm sure he'd be excellent for England."

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[what's this]

Barcelona defender Puyol set to miss Euro 2012 after knee surgery

2012-05-25T01:20:00.003-07:00

May 8, 2012 -- Updated 1546 GMT (2346 HKT)

Barcelona defender Carles Puyol played all but seven minutes of Spain's successful World Cup campaign in 2010

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Barcelona defender Carles Puyol is set to miss Spain's Euro 2012 campaign
Puyol will miss six weeks after suffering a knee injury during the game with Espanyol
The 34-year-old was a mainstay in Spain's victories at Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup
Puyol will miss Barcelona's Copa Del Rey final against Athletic Bilbao on May 25

(CNN) -- Carles Puyol is poised to miss Spain's defense of their European Championship crown after Barcelona confirmed their captain will be out for six weeks with a knee injury.

The 34-year-old felt pain in his knee after his side's 4-0 victory in the Barcelona derby against Espanyol on Saturday -- a game in which he scored.

The Catalan club have confirmed Puyol will undergo surgery to correct the problem and as a result he will miss the Copa Del Rey final against Athletic Bilbao on May 25.

That match also represents coach Pep Guardiola's last game in charge of the club after he, together with Puyol as skipper, led Barcelona to an unprecedented 13 trophies in his four-year tenure.

A statement on the club's official website read: "Carles Puyol will not be featuring in the Copa del Rey Final on May 25.

"The Medical Services have announced that the player ended the game on Saturday against Espanyol feeling pain in his right knee.

"'Following complementary tests, we have decided to subject the player to arthroscopy next Saturday May 12,' they said.

"The surgery will be directed by Doctor Ramon Cugat. The Catalan is expected to need about six weeks to recover."

With Spain's opening game of Euro 2012 coming against Italy on June 10, it means coach Vicente del Bosque could be without one of his stalwarts for the tournament.

Puyol will be a big loss for Spain. He played all but seven minutes of their successful 2010 World Cup campaign in South Africa and scored the winner in his country's semifinal victory over Germany.

He played the full 120 minutes in the final against Netherlands as Spain won soccer's biggest prize for the first time in their history.

Two years prior to that, Puyol was also an integral part of the Spanish team that won the European Championships in Austria and Switzerland.

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UEFA chief Platini throws down gauntlet to German Chancellor Merkel

2012-05-25T01:18:00.001-07:00

UEFA chief: Final will be 'beautiful'

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Platini confident German Chancellor Merkel would attend Euro 2012 final if Germany playing
Merkel and other European leaders have threatened boycott over political situation in Ukraine
Platini stands firm on UEFA's new Financial Fair Play Rules
UEFA chief remains opposed to introduction of goal-line technology

(CNN) -- UEFA president Michel Platini is confident German Chancellor Angela Merkel would attend the final of Euro 2012 in Ukraine -- if Germany reach the tournament's showpiece in Kiev on July 1.

Together with European Union commissioners and several other Western politicians, Merkel has threatened to boycott the month-long tournament, which Ukraine is co-hosting with Poland next month, in sympathy with jailed Ukrainian opposition leader Yulia Tymoshenko.

"I'm not worried about the situation," Platini told CNN in an exclusive interview ahead of Saturday's Champions League final between Bayern Munich and Chelsea in the German city.

"The politicians they are in their role and the Ukrainians they are in their role. I'm in my role and that is not to do politics, it's not to do religion and not to interfere in everything.

"That means they can say what they want -- we continue to organize the Euro. If Germany is in final of the Euro I would be sure that Madame Merkel would come to the final."

Such a scenario -- and it is very possible given Germany are one of the tournament favorites -- would represent something of a u-turn for Merkel given earlier this month she told the Bundestag, the lower house of the German Parliament, that in Ukraine and Belarus "people are still suffering under dictatorship and repression."

Champions League means big money

Europe's Ukrainian dilemma

HIDE CAPTION

From Orange Revolution to Euro 2012

Road to the Champions League final

No regrets

While admitting UEFA had taken a risk in giving Euro 2012 to Poland and Ukraine, Platini insisted he had no regrets about the European governing body's decision to award the tournament to the two Eastern European neighbors.

"Four years ago when all the slides were red, red, red, red, red -- stadium, roads, accommodation was red, red, red, red it was not easy. OK we took the risk but I say it was a good risk."

As well as dealing with the political fall-out from Ukraine's strained relationship with the West, UEFA is implementing a set of financial regulations -- Financial Fair Play (FFP) - that are designed to compel most teams to live within their means.

The FFP rules apply now but will come fully into force in 2014.

But this new stringent financial regime has raised the question as to whether UEFA would prevent a big-spending team like Manchester City, which has incurred large debts after spending up to $1.5B on winning the English Premier League (EPL) for the first time this season, from competing in the Champions League.

"I'm happy for them," said Platini, as he congratulated City on their title success. "But they will know what we will do. And if they are in the Financial Fair Play they will play our competition but we will look at them like we will look at everyone else.

If you say OK to goal-line technology, then it is offside technology, then penalty area technology, and we stop the football
Michel Platini

"We prepare everything with the clubs -- we gave them four years to prepare something for the future," added Platini. "We will never go back."

Technology opposed

The former Nancy and Juventus midfielder and French captain, who led France when they won the European Championships in 1984, remains equally resolute in his opposition to FIFA's likely introduction of goal-line technology in the summer.

The EPL wants to introduce goal-line technology as early as next season if football's rule-makers -- The International Football Association Board (IFAB) -- sanction its use in July.

"I'm against the technology," said Platini. "If you say OK to goal-line technology, then it is offside technology, then penalty area technology, and we stop the football. I want human people -- it's easy. I understand the fans because they want justice but with an additional referee we have the same justice."

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has indicated he is in favor of goal-line technology and would like to see it in place for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, but Platini has not given up all hope that the Swiss may still change his mind.

"I am football, he is political." said Platini. "He changes his mind. He said last year in the IFAB never technology, never. This year he changed, he's says let's go technology. I hope next year he will say no technology."

I didn't see Barcelona be better than Chelsea and I didn't see Real Madrid be better than Bayern in these games
Michel Platini

Looking ahead to Saturday's showpiece event between Chelsea and Bayern, Platini insisted that that best two teams had reached the final, despite the widely held view that their respective semifinal opponents -- Barcelona and Real Madrid -- are Europe's strongest teams.

"Could be, but the result is there -- it's Bayern Munich against Chelsea. I didn't see Barcelona be better than Chelsea and I didn't see Real Madrid be better than Bayern in these games," said the UEFA president.

Surprising season

"Everything was surprising -- the non-qualification of some of the English teams to the second round, the fact that Chelsea and Bayern were not favorites for the semifinals and they beat Barcelona and Real Madrid. It has been incredible year for the legend of the cup."

Next season will be the 20th anniversary of the Champions League, which was formerly known as the European Cup.

Asked to single out his favorite finals, Platini picked Liverpool's win over AC Milan 2005 and Barcelona's triumph in 2011.

"Istanbul, was an incredible game for Liverpool against Milan and last year's final between Barcelona and Manchester United was a great, great game with a great atmosphere at the stadium."

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Today's Scripture: Titus 3

2011-10-24T06:39:00.001-07:00

Today's Scripture: Titus 3

1Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,

2To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.

3For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.

4But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,

5Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

6Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;

7That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

8This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

9But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.

10A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;

11Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.

12When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter.

13Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them.

14And let our's also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.

15All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.

learn
What is the Meaning of this Text?

bedience to magistrates, and becoming behaviour towards all, are enforced from what believers were before conversion, and what they are made, through Christ. (1-7) Good works to be done, and useless disputes avoided. (8-11) Directions and exhortations. (12-15)

Verses 1-7: Spiritual privileges do not make void or weaken, but confirm civil duties. Mere good words and good meanings are not enough without good works. They were not to be quarrelsome, but to show meekness on all occasions, not toward friends only, but to all men, though with wisdom, (Jam 3:13). And let this text teach us how wrong it is for a Christian to be churlish to the worst, weakest, and most abject. The servants of sin have many masters, their lusts hurry them different ways; pride commands one thing, covetousness another. Thus they are hateful, deserving to be hated. It is the misery of sinners, that they hate one another; and it is the duty and happiness of saints to love one another. And we are delivered out of our miserable condition, only by the mercy and free grace of God, the merit and sufferings of Christ, and the working of his Spirit. God the Father is God our Saviour. He is the fountain from which the Holy Spirit flows, to teach, regenerate, and save his fallen creatures; and this blessing comes to mankind through Christ. The spring and rise of it, is the kindness and love of God to man. Love and grace have, through the Spirit, great power to change and turn the heart to God. Works must be in the saved, but are not among the causes of their salvation. A new principle of grace and holiness is wrought, which sways, and governs, and makes the man a new creature. Most pretend they would have heaven at last, yet they care not for holiness now; they would have the end without the beginning. Here is the outward sign and seal thereof in baptism, called therefore the washing of regeneration. The work is inward and spiritual; this is outwardly signified and sealed in this ordinance. Slight not this outward sign and seal; yet rest not in the outward washing, but look to the answer of a good conscience, without which the outward washing will avail nothing. The worker therein is the Spirit of God; it is the renewing of the Holy Ghost. Through him we mortify sin, perform duty, walk in God's ways; all the working of the Divine life in us, and the fruits of righteousness without, are through this blessed and holy Spirit. The Spirit and his saving gifts and graces, come through Christ, as a Saviour, whose undertaking and work are to bring to grace and glory. Justification, in the gospel sense, is the free forgiveness of a sinner; accepting him as righteous through the righteousness of Christ received by faith. God, in justifying a sinner in the way of the gospel, is gracious to him, yet just to himself and his law. As forgiveness is through a perfect righteousness, and satisfaction is made to justice by Christ, it cannot be merited by the sinner himself. Eternal life is set before us in the promise; the Spirit works faith in us, and hope of that life; faith and hope bring it near, and fill with joy in expectation of it.

Verses 8-11: When the grace of God towards mankind has been declared, the necessity of good works is pressed. Those who believe in God, must make it their care to maintain good works, to seek opportunities for doing them, being influenced by love and gratitude. Trifling, foolish questions must be avoided, and subtle distinctions and vain inquiries; nor should people be eager after novelties, but love sound doctrine which tends most to edifying. Though we may now think some sins light and little, if the Lord awaken the conscience, we shall feel even the smallest sin heavy upon our souls.

Verses 12-15: Christianity is not a fruitless profession; and its professors must be filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. They must be doing good, as well as keeping away from evil. Let "ours" follow some honest labour and employment, to provide for themselves and their families. Christianity obliges all to seek some honest work and calling, and therein to abide with God. The apostle concludes with expressions of kind regard and fervent prayer. Grace be with you all; the love and favour of God, with the fruits and effects thereof, according to need; and the increase and feeling of them more and more in your souls. This is the apostle's wish and prayer, showing his affection to them, and desire for their good, and would be a means of obtaining for them, and bringing down on them, the thing requested. Grace is the chief thing to be wished and prayed for, with respect to ourselves or others; it is "all good."

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How can We Apply this Scripture familyto our Life?

In our Bible Study here in the book of Titus we have made application in Titus chapter 1 for the Right Leadership in the Church, in Chapter 2 our responsibility to live right in the Church, and here in Chapter 3 to Obey Government, Avoid useless arguments. We all have a responsibility to live what we study in the scriptures. To not just hear the Word but Obey and live it out in every decision we make. Keeping the main thing, the main thing, Sharing what God did for us through His Son. Once we learn it, we live it, then teach it to the next generation. I have heard of Churches splitting because of the color of the carpet in a building plan. I have heard of Christians not paying their taxes. Fighting within the Church for anything and everything. Be tolerant of believers for their standards and level of their Christian growth. It is really simple, get saved, share Christ, and love others as Christ has loved us. Keep the main thing the main thing.

Bishop Uchenna C. Okonkwor

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