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2011-07-26T05:03:00.000-07:00

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Ronaldo Picks Real Madrid And Jose Mourinho Over Pep Guardiola's Barcelona

2011-07-20T03:52:00.001-07:00

Brazilian legend Ronaldo has said he would pick Real Madrid over Barcelona, and prefers Jose Mourinho to Pep Guardiola as he speaks out on his former clubs for the first time since announcing his retirement last month.

The World Cup-winning forward played for Spain's two greatest institutions, starring at the Camp Nou in 1996-97, and then for the Merengues between 2002 and 2007.

When asked who he would play for now if he was 10 years younger, however, he had no problem selecting Los Blancos."I had a great history at Madrid, one of respect and it's the club where I scored the most and celebrated the most with them," he told AS."I was only at Barcelona for one year. It was spectacular, but I left them on bad terms and joined Inter. I sill have great esteem and respect for Madrid. However, Barcelona do play great football and they have that small player [Lionel Messi] who does certain things."[Barcelona president] Sandro [Rosell] is a friend of mine and he knows, but the relationship I have with [Real Madrid president] Florentino Perez...I would always choose Florentino."Ronaldo also expressed his preference to the techiques of current Madrid boss Mourinho, adding: "Mourinho, I knew him well when he was at Barcelona as Bobby Robson's assistant, and he is a great person."I didn't think he would become coach, but it was a nice surprise. His results are all deserved."

Real Madrid Still Top Rich List

2011-07-20T03:51:00.000-07:00

Spanish giants Real Madrid and Bayern Munich remain in the top two places in the latest Deloitte Money League, published on Thursday. The top six places in the table remain unchanged with Real and Barca followed by Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Arsenal and Chelsea. Real have revenues of £373 million (€438.6m) compared with £338.6 million (€398.1m) at Barca and £297.5 million (€349.8m) at Old Trafford.

Real's revenues are up 9.3%, Barca by 8.8% and United 7%.

The financial study ranks clubs purely based upon the revenue they bring in rather than the wealth of their owners or profit and loss from 2009-10 accounts. The earning-power of the Premier League means seven of the 20 clubs are from England.

The big movers are Manchester City, who entered in 20th place a year ago but have now shot up to 11th with revenues of £152.8 million - up 49.5% on 12 months ago. They look certain to climb even further if they begin to enjoy the riches of the Champions League in future seasons.

AS Roma suffer the biggest drop, with the Serie A side falling six places to 18th with a 16% reduction in revenue. Liverpool fall one place to eighth with Spurs up three to 12th.

Vfb Stuttgart and Aston Villa are new clubs in this year's list.

Juventus (10th) get 65% of their revenue from broadcasting deals, compared to Bundesliga side Hamburg with 23% (10th).

Arsenal enjoy the largest matchday revenue of 42% as they reap the rewards of moving from Highbury to Emirates Stadium, with Juve bringing in just 8% from their Stadio Olimpico games.

Schalke are most reliant on commercial business as that brings in 57% of their revenue, with 20th place Aston Villa just 15%.

Deloitte Money League

1 (1) Real Madrid - €438.6m
2 (2) FC Barcelona - €398.1m
3 (3) Manchester United - €349.8m
4 (4) Bayern Munich - €323m
5 (5) Arsenal - €274.1m
6 (6) Chelsea - €255.9m
7 (10) AC Milan - €235.8m
8 (7) Liverpool - €225.3m
9 (9) Internazionale - €224.8m
10 (8) Juventus - €205m
11 (20) Manchester City - €152.8m
12 (15) Tottenham Hotspur - €146.3m
13 (11) Hamburg - €146.2m
14 (13) Lyon - €146.1m
15 (14) Marseille - €141.1m
16 (16) Schalke 04 - €139.8m
17 (18) Atlético Madrid - €124.5m
18 (12) AS Roma - €122.7m
19 (n/a) VfB Stuttgart - €114.8m
20 (n/a) Aston Villa - €109.4m

Manchester City ready to tempt Roma's Daniele De Rossi with €9 million wage deal - report

2011-07-19T10:43:00.000-07:00

Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi could be enticed to leave the club and move to Manchester City who are offering him a €9 million wage package.

Sky Sport Italia reports City are ready to offer the 27-year-old €5m more than his current wages at the Serie A side in order to convince him to leave Italy.

However, Goal.com Italy understands Manchester City's offer will be closer to €6m per annum.

De Rossi is considered by coach Luis Enrique as fundamental to his plans, and just last week club presidentThomas DiBenedetto said he would do everything to ensure the Italy international was offered a new deal.

No contract offer appears to have arrived since then, and De Rossi's current deal expires next year, adding pressure on his side to move with haste or risk losing him on a free transfer in 2012.

City boss Roberto Mancini is eager to land the Italian and has the money to do it. Roma are not able to match City's spending power and they are unwilling to offer De Rossi anything more than what he currently earns.

De Rossi, however, is seen as heir to captain Francesco Totti, and the Lido di Ostia-born player has always said he would never leave the club, even when Real Madrid were knocking at the door.

Pep Guardiola claims Barcelona are in negotiations with Arsenal to sign Cesc Fabregas

2011-07-19T10:41:00.000-07:00

Pep Guardiola has revealed that Arsenal are willing to negotiate the sale of captain Cesc Fabregas back to his previous club Barcelona.

The Spanish giants have been courting the World Cup winner for some time, and Guardiola has revealed that the Gunners have put the midfielder "on the market".

"It is scary the amount of games we have to play," said Guardiola.

"Last year we were interested in Cesc but Arsenal didn't place him on the market. This year they have agreed to negotiate and that's what we're doing.

"Market prices are what they are but we [hope] in the end that everything will be sorted out. There is some money in a box [set aside] for this player and we will try until the last day to bring Cesc because he will make our squad better."

However, Guardiola was keen to state that any deal is far from complete, and it would not change Fabregas's level of commitment at Arsenal while he was still under contract.

"But I'm the first to understand that sometimes things can't happen," Guardiola added.

"I think Cesc has to do what Arsenal ask him. I wouldn't like it if a player from this institution stood up and said: 'I am not going to train any more because I want to leave'.

"When he is fit, Wenger will play him. He has spoken to his coach and his club and if he has the possibility to leave, he would like to come to Barca.

"If they don't sell him to us, like last year, they don't sell him. But as he is on the market, we negotiate."

Some reports had suggested that if Fabregas were to make the move to Barca, one of the stars of the Under 21 European Championships, Thiago Alacantra, would be departing Camp Nou.

Guardiola, however, says that this is not the case, with the youngster recently penning a four-year extension to his contract, which includes a £79 million release clause.

"One doesn't have anything to do with the other," Guardiola continued.

"Thiago has endless personality. He is a very daring boy with a lot of talent, but he has a lot of [first-team] competition.

"He has a very big future and we will try to give him the minutes [he needs] for his potential to explode. Now he is worth a lot of money."

From to Robinho to Carlos Tevez to possibly Sergio Aguero, Vincent Kompany has seen it all at Manchester City

2011-07-19T10:36:00.001-07:00

VANCOUVER - For Vincent Kompany and Manchester City, it's nice being away from the British media when it comes to the never-ending Carlos Tevez transfer saga.

"We're in America so nobody talks about it here," the defender said.

Kompany has been at Manchester City for the past four seasons and has seen it all. He was there when Robinho signed with the club in 2008 and he was there a year later when the Brazilian forward asked for a transfer to a South American team prior to joining Milan.

Sound familiar?

Tevez, who was the team's top scorer last season, is seeking a move to Corinthians in Brazil this summer to be closer to his family in Argentina after two years in Manchester. Each day there seems to be a new rumor, with the latest coming Monday as coach Roberto Mancini claimed a deal was reached only to have the Brazilian club deny the news moments later.

"This is just another story to add to the book," Kompany said. "We still have all of preseason to go and this doesn't faze me or bother me at all. It's just part of what we have to go through at this club. It's not a negative, it's not a positive. It just happens."

To replace Tevez, Manchester City has been linked to Atlético Madrid striker Sergio Aguero, who ironically is a teammate of Tevez on the Argentinian national team.

While bringing in South American players is risky considering Robinho and Tevez's desires to leave the club after short periods of time, Kompany is excited to add any player who can contribute as the team looks to bring more trophies back to Manchester.

"That's been the way the club has been moving forward for the past few seasons," Kompany said. "Every year we try to be better."

If Tevez's move to Corinthians becomes official, there will be an open spot for captain at the English club. Kompany appears to be the obvious choice since he is already a leader for the Blues, who will be playing in the Champions League next season.

"There's nothing official," he said. "I'm always honored to wear the armband, but I wouldn't become captain because I get the armband. You are who you are and the armband doesn't change anything to my role on the team."

Japan beat U.S. to win women's World Cup

2011-07-19T01:08:00.000-07:00

Japan won the women's World Cup on Sunday for the first time, stunning the heavily favored United States 3-1 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in extra time.

Japan was in need of a good news story after the tsunami disaster which rocked the country in March and their women's soccer team delivered it in dramatic fashion despite being dominated for long spells in the final.

"To our friends around the world - thank you for your support," was the simple message on a giant banner the Japanese women carried around the pitch after the match.

It was hard to imagine a more thrilling finale to the three-week tournament played in packed stadiums before enthusiastic crowds around the country and in front of record television audiences of up to 16 million in Germany alone.

On Sunday, Japan fell behind in normal time and again in extra time but hit back out of the blue on both occasions before prevailing in the shootout as the top-ranked U.S. team lost all their confidence, sending a series of poor efforts at goal.

The United States were chasing a third World Cup title and dominated for long periods but wasted their many chances, especially in the first half.

Their confidence crumbled when it came to the spot kicks and they missed three of their four shots while Japan converted three of four.

Shannon Boxx and Tobin Heath had their spot kicks stopped while Carli Lloyd's shot sailed high above the crossbar before Abby Wambach finally converted to keep alive U.S. hopes.

Saki Kumagai then blasted a well-placed shot high to the left over diving U.S. keeper Hope Solo to give Japan an insurmountable 3-1 lead in penalties, sparking wild celebrations with her team mates in front of the sell-out crowd of 48,837.

"We're so happy about the title and so happy that we stayed in the tournament so long," said Homara Sawa, Japan's captain who scored the second equaliser for Japan. She won the Golden Ball as the top player and Golden Boot as well.

"Now we're number one," Sawa added after Japan had also upset hostsGermany and Sweden to reach the final. "We had so much self-confidence all the way to the end and we all believed in ourselves all the way. That's why we won deservedly."

"BITTER DEFEAT"

It was the first time in 26 matches that Japan had prevailed against the United States, who won the World Cup title in 1991 and in 1999.

The Americans had won 22 of the previous matches against Japan, with three draws. After Germany, winners of the last two World Cups in 2003 and 2006, they were the favourites to win what would have been a record third title.

The Americans, cheered on in Frankfurt by many U.S. military personnel stationed in Germany, also had backing from U.S. President Barack Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who had vowed to watch Sunday's final.

"It's a bitter defeat," said U.S. defender Alex Krieger. "We played well. It's very disappointing. Japan played well too. It was a great match but we didn't do it. We didn't take advantage of chances and we also made some defensive mistakes."

Krieger told Germany's ARD TV she had no explanation for a defensive blunder that gave Japan their first equaliser.

"Unfortunately we gave them a gift with that goal," she said. "I didn't see what happened. But I still think we played well. We're happy that we won the silver medal. It's disappointing but I think we played well."

The United States had started strongly, dominating the first half. They broke the deadlock in the 69th minute when Alex Morgan scored a stylish goal. The American, who came off the bench at halftime, outsprinted defender Yaki Kumagai on to a long ball from Megan Rapinoe and expertly fired her shot into the corner.

Aya Miyama equalised in the 81st minute when she tapped in a loose ball in front of the U.S. goal after woeful defending.

Wambach's header in the 104th minute looked to have given the U.S. victory in extra time.

Japan came back again, however, with the same never-say-die approach that helped them to upset defending champions and hosts Germany in the quarter-final, when Sawa scored in the 117th minute. Japan were reduced to 10 when Azusa Iwashimizu was dismissed in the 120th minute

Copa America 2011: Brazil and Argentina Exit Early

2011-07-19T01:05:00.000-07:00

For Brazil and host-nation Argentina, there are a lot of questions to be answered for their respective early exits, and it's interesting to ponder which team suffered more humiliation in South America's most prestigious tournament.

The only acceptable result for Argentina, by the fans and press, was winning the title. Argentina hasn't won a World Cup or Copa America trophy since Mexico City in 1986, behind the legendary performance of Diego Maradona. With a roster packed with excellent defensive players, and a star-studded collection of forwards, Argentina had high hopes going into the tournament on their home soil.

But certain weaknesses were exposed. Unlike in years' past, Argentina were without the services of an elite goalkeeper. Sergio Romero did a solid job in the net, but he is not up to the standards of past goalkeeper stars like Sergio Goycochea, Pablo Cavallero, and Roberto Abbondanzieri.

Another spot that has been somewhat of a concern, dating back to when Maradona retired, has been attacking midfielder. Javier Pastore appears to be the best player at the position, but he went into the tournament with limited experience, and head coach Sergio Batista didn't appear to use him right, even bringing him off the bench, when he probably deserved to start.

In fact, a great deal of the blame could fall on the shoulders of Batista. After replacing Maradona, the new coach didn't seem to understand his team's strengths, or how to develop chemistry.

Argentina sputtered against hapless Bolivia, and managed only a tie against Colombia. To advance to the knockout rounds, they defeated a weak Costa Rica team that lacked their best talent.

Against Uruguay, Argentina appeared sharp on offense, but the defense was terrorized by forward Diego Forlan's freekicks from near the half line and into the penalty box.

However, when Diego Perez received his second card in the 38th minute, Argentina had the man advantage and had the opportunity to pounce on Uruguay until the 87th minute when Javier Mascherano received a questionable second yellow card. Argentina's inability to capitalize against 10 players for nearly 50 minutes proved that the South American giants lacked the great passing and attack style to be mentioned with the likes of European powers Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands.

Argentina did receive quality play from Barcelona star Lionel Messi. The overly criticized forward did not score in the tournament, but was a great facilitator against both Costa Rica and Uruguay. Meanwhile, forward teammate Sergio Aguero struggled for most of the match, and normally reliable Angel Di Maria was rather ineffective against Uruguay.

To Argentina's credit, they still manage a goal, were impressive in the penalty shootout, and appeared to be the stronger team against a talented Uruguay squad. The 2010 World Cup semifinalists played with great poise, and did a fine job of executing on their limited opportunities.

While Argentina had a few bright spots in their quarterfinals loss, the same probably cannot be said for Brazil.

Head coach Mano Menezes took a curious lineup into the tournament, and Brazil seemed to lack the creative flare that they've been known for in the past.

Brazil had two draws, and managed only one win over hapless Ecuador. Even in that victory over Ecuador, Brazil conceded two goals, and were tied with two-thirds of the match complete.

Against Paraguay in the quarterfinals, Brazil dominated most of the match, but was stymied by a tough defense. Brazil also showed that they no longer have a superstar forward, as Alexandre Pato, Robinho, and 19-year-old Neymar proved that they are not up to the former standard of Brazil strikers.

In particular, Neymar may have proved that he's more hype than anything. The young forward scored two goals in the tournament, but both were against Ecuador, who were not expected to advance.

With zero goals after 120 minutes, Brazil's penalty shootout was nothing short of pathetic. Not only did they not convert one shot, their shots were dreadful.

Menezes's job security is probably very shaky at the moment. Brazil remains strong at defense and at goalkeeper, but the midfield and forward positions proved that they lack high-quality attackers and playmaking skills. Menezes failed to find the right unit to put more pressure on opponents.

For Brazil and Argentina, it's time to pick up the pieces. Brazil will host the Confederations Cup in 2013, and then the World Cup in 2014.

With the world watching South America, the two most prominent nations on the continent are expected to rise to the occasion or risk even more criticism.

Aston Villa sign Shay Given from Manchester City on five-year deal

2011-07-19T00:51:00.001-07:00

Aston Villa have completed the signing of Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given from Manchester City.

The 35-year-old has signed a five-year contract at Villa Park after the clubs agreed an undisclosed fee.

New Villa boss Alex McLeish targeted the former Newcastle man after Brad Friedel moved to Tottenham.

Given told the club's website: "Aston Villa is a huge club and I'm really excited to be joining. It's a new challenge and I'm eager to embrace it."

Given had been on the margins at Eastlands after City manager Roberto Mancini made England international Joe Hart his first choice.

He is McLeish's first signing since taking over at Villa Park and the former Birmingham manager believes Given will have a major impact at the club.The Irish international will make his Villa debut in a friendly against Walsall on Thursday.

"Shay has come here with something of a point to prove and that won't do him any harm at all," McLeish said.

"Everybody who has watched him perform over many years in the Premier League will know his pedigree so we believe we have secured the services of one of the best goalkeepers in the business."

Corinthians yet to agree deal for Man City's Carlos Tevez

2011-07-19T00:50:00.000-07:00

Brazilian club Corinthians say they have not yet struck a deal to sign Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez.

On Sunday, City boss Roberto Mancini claimed a deal had been reached for the 27-year-old, with only personal terms still to be agreed.

But a Corinthians statement said: "We would like to clarify to the public that City did not accept our offer.

"City sent a counter-proposal in the early hours... and this will be analysed by Corinthians."

Tevez's representative Kia Joorabchian also insisted that, contrary to Mancini's comments on City's pre-season tour, the clubs had not yet settled on a fee despite Corinthians returning with an improved bid understood to be about £40m.

"There is no agreement at the moment but we are working hard and we will see what happens," he told BBC Sport chief football writer Phil McNulty.

"The deal has not been done and I don't want to say too much either way. To say I am optimistic would be just a guess but we are working hard."

BBC Sport understands the only change to the offer accepted following a weekend of deliberation by City is regarded by Eastlands officials as minor and does not relate to the value of the bid, which was almost £39m.

Mancini had previously told Sky Sports News that Tevez was a still a City player, but only the attacker's personal terms stood between a deal being finalised.

Their statement, issued on Monday, continued: "Due to the time difference, the counter-proposal was only read by our club management on Monday morning.However, the transfer of Tevez back to Corinthians, who he played for from 2004-06, appears to be some way off completion, though the Sao Paulo club must be quick as Brazil's transfer deadline day is on Wednesday.

"The English club have asked for changes in the form of payment and on the value of the transfer. In addition, Manchester City has also insisted that Tevez would have to give up a pending amount with them.

"Lastly, our president Andres Sanchez informs us that for the time being there does not exist anything concrete for Tevez."

Argentine international Tevez - joint top scorer in the Premier League last season with 20 goals - is desperate to leave England in order to spend more time with his family in his homeland.

Corinthians, backed by revenue from a new television deal, want to make Tevez a landmark signing by taking him back to the club where he previously enjoyed success.

Moving to South America would also help to solve Tevez's problem ofbeing separated from his two children.

The former West Ham forward, who joined City from Manchester United in the summer of 2009, is under contract with Mancini's side until June 2014.

If Tevez does go, his 23-year-old countryman Sergio Aguero, who is rated at £45m by Atletico Madrid, is regarded as a natural replacement.

Ricciardo keen to close gap on field

2011-07-18T13:47:00.001-07:00

The Red Bull protege has taken a Hispania race seat, and qualified and finished last on his debut at Silverstone - although he had been quicker than team-mate Tonio Liuzzi in some practice sessions.

"I'm satisfied with my first race finish in Silverstone at the wheel of the HRT Formula 1 team car," said Ricciardo.

"It was nice to finish and get the first race and experience under my belt. Ideally I would have liked to be closer to my rivals but that's the aim for this race.

"I have learnt that there is a lot more to the tyres and managing them than I thought. For now this is one of the main things I need to learn quickly about."

He added: "My goal this time is to finish the race and close the gap to my competitors and to Tonio."

Premier League - Fergie set to drop Sneijder move

2011-07-18T13:45:00.001-07:00

With Luka Modric and Samir Nasri seemingly bound for Chelsea and Manchester City, should they eventually leave Tottenham andArsenal this summer, Sneijder appeared the most obvious replacement for Paul Scholes.

There has still been plenty of speculation about a deal, including a claim that shirt manufacturers Nike may get involved to push it through. However, when asked about Sneijder in Seattle on Sunday, Ferguson's response was blunt. He told Press Association Sport: "Forget it. We are looking at some things, but I am not so sure Sneijder will be easy to get."

If Ferguson has turned elsewhere, the options are not extensive.

Germany powerhouse Bastian Schweinsteigerhas been mentioned and this weekend Valencia's Juan Mata has also come into the frame.

However, quality control at a side that has won four Premier League titles out of the past five and reached three Champions League finals in four attempts means most are dismissed as a waste of time.

"I could pick three or four players to come in but they wouldn't be good enough for us so there is no point," said the Scot.

Indeed, with new boy Phil Jones able to operate in a midfield holding role, Tom Cleverley tipped for big things after an excellent season on loan at Wigan and big demands being placed on Anderson to finally fulfil his potential on a regular basis, Ferguson claims he would be content to face his championship rivals with the current group of players.

"I would be happy enough," he said.

Premier League - Corinthians deny Tevez deal is done

2011-07-18T13:43:00.001-07:00

Corinthians have issued a statement to clarify that they have not yet agreed a fee with Manchester City for Carlos Tevez, despite suggestions to the contrary from Roberto Mancini.

Mancini claimed during the club's pre-season tour to North America that City "have an agreement with Corinthians" regarding the sale of the Argentina international.

However, Corinthians, who Tevez represented between 2005 and 2006, say the two clubs remain some way apart in discussions over a transfer.

The Brazilian club claim City are still holding out for a higher fee having already rejected an offer of £35 million, and that the Premier League side believe Tevez owes them an outstanding payment.

A statement issued by president Andres Sanchez says there is "nothing concrete" at present.

"Following news reports claiming an arrangement had been reached between Corinthians and striker Carlos Tevez, the president Andres Sanchez is keen to come forward to clarify that Manchester City have not accepted the proposal by Corinthians," a statement on the club's official website read.

"In fact, the club sent a counter-proposal to Corinthians this morning that, due to the time difference, did not reach the attention of the board until now. In the counter-proposal, the Premier League club sought to change the structure of payment and the total value of the transaction. In addition, Manchester City also insist that Tevez gives up a pending amount with the English club.

"Finally, the president Andres Sanchez advises that there is nothing concrete at the current moment with Tevez and that City's counter-proposal will be reviewed by him and his board."

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini confirms Carlos Tevez sale to Corinthians

2011-07-18T04:30:00.000-07:00

MANCHESTER City manager Roberto Mancini has confirmed an agreement has been reached with Brazilian side Corinthians for the sale of star striker Carlos Tevez.

(adds quotes from Mancini and Man City defender Lescott, adds details, changes source)

City turned down a £40 million (US$64M) bid from Corinthians last week, with City believed to be holding out for £50 million (US$80M) for a player who finished as joint top scorer in the English Premier League last season with 20 goals.

However, speaking on the club's preseason tour of North America, Mancini told Sky Sports, "We have an agreement with Corinthians but Carlos now is still a City player."

The 27-year-old Argentine international had been looking to move back to South America in order to be closer to his family and was reportedly unhappy in Manchester.

He requested a transfer with "great regret" at the beginning of July, having withdrawn a previous demand last December.

Tevez, a 2009 summer signing and City's club captain, had previously been linked with moves to Spain or Italy, where Real Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus were all thought to be interested.

Man City defender Joleon Lescott admitted he would be disappointed to see his teammate depart but understood his wishes.

"We'll be disappointed if Carlos leaves but it was down to the club and Carlos what was best for each other and they have come to an agreement so I wish both parties all the best," Lescott said.

"Carlos is his own man. Last season he played to 110 percent every game so none of us will be holding any grudges towards him

Brazil exit Copa America after four penalty misses

2011-07-18T04:14:00.000-07:00

BRAZIL missed four penalties to be dumped out of the Copa America by Paraguay in a quarter-final shoot-out in Argentina today.

An awful match ended 0-0 after extra time.

But if that was bad, it got worse for Brazil as Elano, Thiago Silva, Andre Santos and Fred all missed.

Marcelo Estigarribia and Christian Riveros converted for the Paraguayans, who will play Venezuela in the semi finals after their 2-1 win over Chile today.

Brazil forward Robinho tried to put a positive gloss on the defeat to a side with whom they were fortunate to draw in the group stage just eight days earlier.

"I think we played a good Copa overall. But now we must keep our heads up and go on to lift the World Cup in our homeland," the Milan striker said.

Brazil's exit followed that of hosts Argentina, beaten by Uruguay in a shootout yesterday.

Oswaldo Vizcarrondo put Venezuela ahead in the first half against Chile, Humberto Suazo equalised in the second and Gabriel Cichero scored the winner.

Venezuela, better known for baseball than football, are unbeaten in four games at the Copa America and have been the surprise team in a surprising tournament.

In the semi finals, Peru will meet Uruguay on Wednesday morning (AEST) while Venezuela will face Paraguay on Thursday morning.

Terrors edged out in Poland

2011-07-14T12:07:00.000-07:00

Dundee United suffered a 1-0 defeat in their Europa League opener against Slask Wroclaw in Poland on Thursday.

However, Peter Houston's men missed two excellent first-half chances and remain firmly in the qualifying tie.

A late goal from substitute Johan Voskamp, a big-money buy from Sparta Rotterdam, gave the Poles victory and inflicted a cruel blow on United.

Houston's side spent much of the match chasing the ball but had two great chances to take the lead through Johnny Russell and David Goodwillie before Slask struck with 15 minutes remaining.

Although they did not get the away goal they wanted, United will take plenty of heart from their performance and on the evidence of this 90 minutes still stand a real chance of going through to the third qualifying round.

United, who were minus the injured Garry Kenneth, Scott Robertson and Danny Swanson, named striker Jon Daly in central defence alongside Sean Dillon, with Scott Severin pushed up into midfield.

United were making their second visit to the Oporowska Stadium, having secured a goalless draw there in the first round of the UEFA Cup in 1980 before winning 7-2 at Tannadice.

They found themselves up against the same manager, with Orest Lenczyk enjoying a second spell at the club, having led them to runners-up place in the Polish league last season.

The Tangerines were virtual spectators for the opening few minutes as Slask showed their quality by passing the ball around almost effortlessly.

And they should have scored after eight minutes when Cristian Diaz cut inside from the left but he pulled his shot wide from 16 yards.

United, the seeded team in the tie, were set up to break on the counter-attack and it paid off just two minutes later when Russell made space for himself on the wing and got past his marker.

The Scotland Under-21 international took the ball round goalkeeper Marian Kelemen and looked certain to score but scuffed his shot wide.

Slask continued to show their football skills, keeping possession for long spells, but United's defence was impressively dogged in keeping them at bay.

And it was United who went closest again through John Rankin, whose shot from the edge of the penalty area needed two attempts from goalkeeper Kelemen to finally get it under his control.

Goalkeepers came to the fore as the half wore on, with United's Dusan Pernis denying Marek Gancarczyk from the edge of the area.

United then passed up the best chance of the game. A flick from Russell carved Slask wide open and set lone striker Goodwillie through one-on-one with the goalkeeper.

The Rangers, Cardiff and Blackpool transfer target looked certain to score but he tried to go round the keeper and was blocked out.

Then it was the turn of Pernis to shine and ensure United went in level at the break. Diaz cut in from the left and clipped a shot towards the far corner which looked like trickling in off the post.

But Pernis threw himself across his goal to get a hand to the ball and turn it away.

The Slovak saved United again on 58 minutes by blocking a Amir Spahic header from Sebastian Mila's cross.

Slask introduced new signing Voskamp on 72 minutes and that proved to be crucial.

The striker soon got on the end of Tadeusz Socha's cross from the right and slotted the ball into the bottom corner from eight yards.

United lost Severin to injury in the 88th minute but will still be quietly confident of overturning their deficit at Tannadice next Thursday night.

Vieira hangs up his boots

2011-07-14T11:48:00.000-07:00

Patrick Vieira has retired as a player to take up a new role of football development executive at Manchester City.

The 35-year-old has been handed the new role at City after deciding to hang up his boots after an illustrious career.

Vieira spent 18 months at City after arriving from Inter Milan in January 2010, but he struggled to hold down a regular place in Roberto Mancini's side.

The former Arsenal star played a bit-part role last season, with most of his Premier League appearances coming off the bench and he was not offered a new deal when his contract expired earlier this summer.

Vieira is relishing his new role at City as he embarks on life off the pitch.

"This role is a fantastic new challenge for me and I am very grateful to Manchester City for offering me this opportunity."
Patrick Vieira on his new role at Man City
Quotes of the week

"I have a lot to learn about the non-playing areas of the business but there are many very experienced people here for me to learn from and I am confident that I can make a significant contribution to the club's ongoing success.

"I am particularly pleased to be given the opportunity to work with the club's community scheme.

"Everyone at Manchester City - the fans, the staff and the players - have made me and my family feel very welcome here over the past two years and I am very happy to have been given the chance to stay and develop my career away from the pitch."

Brian Marwood, City's chief operations officer, added: "Patrick is the ultimate professional and it is our very great privilege to introduce him as our new football development executive. His experience in the world of football is virtually unparalleled and he will be a huge asset to our club as old and young alike benefit from his knowledge.

"His contribution to world football during his time as a player was extraordinary and he will be remembered as one of the greatest players to grace the Premier League. Whilst it is sad to see Patrick's playing career come to an end, we are delighted that he has chosen to extend his time with Manchester City in this new capacity."

The Senegal-born star won three Premier League titles and four FA Cups during a a glittering nine-year spell at Arsenal.

Vieira, who won 107 caps for France, was a member of the 1998 World Cup winning side and Euro 2000 winning squad for Les Bleus.

Fergie plays down Sneijder talk

2011-07-14T11:28:00.001-07:00

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has rubbished reports that a £35million deal for Wesley Sneijder is close to being completed.

Ferguson was responding to English press claims that the Inter Milan star has agreed terms with the Old Trafford club, with the United boss adamant there is no truth in the rumours.

Sneijder has stated he is happy with the Serie A side and Inter insist that the Holland international is not for sale.

But with United understood to be in the market for a new playmaker to replace Paul Scholes, the former Ajax and Real Madrid man continues to be linked with the Premier League champions.
Conjecture

"I keep reading about this, there's absolutely nothing at all to that," Ferguson told ESPN.

"First of all I don't think Inter are prepared to sell him anyway.

"You get conjecture and you get speculation every week in newspapers unfortunately.

"And we have to answer these for some reason - why, I don't know, but we have to find a reason without adding insult to any particular club, or embarrassing any particular player. There's nothing we can do about it."

Reports had suggested that United chief executive David Gill has been in Milan thrashing out a deal, but the club have since confirmed that Gill was heading to Zurich for a European Club Association meeting.

Real Madrid ready to sell Diarra for £15m after pre-season snub.

2011-07-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid will try to recoup around £15m for Lassana Diarra after leaving him out of their tour to the United States.

Jose Mourinho has left Diarra behind and the Frenchman's future now appears to lie away from the Bernabeu, with Tottenham and Manchester United said to be keen on him.

But in the past few days, Juventus have also expressed an interest in the former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder.

Madrid are willing to do business but are eager to recoup as much of the £20m fee they paid for him back as possible. Spurs and United have a passing interest but are understood to be put off by such a price-tag, with Madrid holding out for at least £15m.

Diarra, 26, previously said he wanted to fight for his place at Madrid but, following Mourinho's latest snub, the Frenchman is now planning for an exit.

Exclusive - Joorabchian opens door to Spanish move for Tevez

2011-07-13T12:53:00.000-07:00

Exclusive - Joorabchian opens door to Spanish move for Tevez.

Kia Joorabchian has revealed that Carlos Tevez would be happy to accept a transfer to Spain, opening the door to interest from La Liga.

The Manchester City captain is keen to leave the club after his family failed to settle in England, with reports suggesting Brazilian side Corinthians are keen on signing him for a fee of £35m.

But his adviser Joorabchian has told talkSPORT he would be equally happy with a move to Spain, claiming that culturally and in terms of location, the country would suit his wife and two young children and match anything on offer in South America.

In Spain they will speak the same language, you can see that a lot of Argentinian and Brazilian players live in Spain, they adapt very easily in Spain.

Kia Joorabchian
“It’s very difficult in football to say categorically nothing will ever happen,” Joorabchian said. “I very much doubt that Carlos will remain in England if he leaves Manchester City.

“I can sit here and say for definite he won’t go to Chelsea but maybe Manchester City won’t accept the bid from Corinthians and Chelsea come in and offer £100m. I can’t make a determination of what will happen but I can tell you for Carlos the main motivation for leaving City is not to go to another club in the Premier League but to move to a city where his family can adapt.

“A move to Spain might solve that problem. It’s about the language and it’s about [the location] culturally. In Spain they will speak the same language, you can see that a lot of Argentinian and Brazilian players live in Spain, they adapt very easily in Spain.

“Carlos himself, as a person, adapts almost anywhere. You can see that his football has adapted anywhere he has played in the world. He’s never had a problem on the field. There are a lot of players who cannot adapt in certain places because they struggle but Carlos is not that kind of person.

“You look at the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo who moved to Spain. Why did he move to Spain? He wanted to be somewhere that culturally he felt a little bit closer. There is no bigger club in the world than Manchester United. You can’t say that Real Madrid are bigger than Manchester United, you can say that they’re equal. People leave for different reasons.”

No Blues bid for Tiote

2011-07-13T12:44:00.001-07:00

Newcastle have confirmed that they have not received an approach from Chelsea for midfielder Cheik Tiote.

It was believed that The Blues had enquired about the availability of the Magpies star following Michael Essien's injury.

Essien is set to miss most of the first half of the season after damaging knee ligaments and Chelsea have been scouring the market for potential reinforcements.

However, it seems they have not contacted Newcastle as yet, with The Magpies stating they have not heard anything from the Stamford Bridge outfit.

A statement on Newcastle's official Twitter feed read: "The club can confirm that they have received no enquiries for Cheik Tiote, contrary to some media reports."

Tiote joined Newcastle from Dutch side FC Twente last summer for £4.5million and he was regarded as one of the club's most consistent performers.

Andre Villas-Boas' Chelsea have also been linked with West Ham midfielder Scott Parker, although the Hammers say nothing official has been tabled for the England international.

With Newcastle already selling fans' favourites Andy Carroll to Liverpool and Kevin Nolan to West Ham, the last thing supporters would want to see is the club cashing in on £15million-rated Tiote.

Fabregas' mind set on Barca

2011-07-13T12:37:00.001-07:00

Barcelona pair Xavi and Victor Valdes both claim that Cesc Fabregas has set his heart on a move back to Camp Nou.

It is little secret that the Arsenal captain would like to return to the club where he spent his boyhood years before switching to England in 2003.

And Xavi believes Fabregas is 'suffering' because he has yet to secure his dream move, while Valdes thinks his fellow Spain international is 'excited' at the potential of the transfer.

"Cesc is excited about coming back here and I'd like that," Valdes said at the launch of his official website.

"His way of playing would mean he'd have no problems adapting and he'd bring a lot of quality."

Barcelona star midfielder Xavi reckons his compatriot, Fabregas, has made his preference of a return to the European champions clear.

Xavi told Barcelona's official website: "I spoke to Cesc in Ibiza and he said he was suffering because he wanted to come.

"It's more like, he did everything he could to come and wants to leave Arsenal - although he made it clear that now everything depends on the selling club."

Inter - Sneijder not for sale

2011-07-13T12:34:00.001-07:00

Inter Milan technical director Marco Branca has denied reports that a £35million deal for Wesley Sneijder has been struck with Manchester United.

Newspapers in both Italy and England claimed that the Old Trafford outfit were planning a big-money move for the Holland international.

Branca, however, insists Inter do not want to sell their talented playmaker and would not welcome any bids for him.

"Wesley Sneijder is untransfereable," said Branca. "There is nothing to update.
Offer

"It's not surprising Sneijder is wanted by other clubs, but we have received no formal offer, nor do we intend to wait for one.

"We know what we have to do and there are no meetings planned with his agent. Sneijder is not for sale."

United are on the hunt for a playmaker after the retirement of Paul Scholes at the end of last season.

They have also been linked with Arsenal's Samir Nasri and Tottenham's Luka Modric this summer as they search Europe for a replacement.

Belgian star pens five-year deal

2011-07-13T12:32:00.001-07:00

Benfica have concluded the signing of Belgian star Axel Witsel.

Witsel, who was also being tracked by the likes of Blackburn, Roma and AC Milan, completed his move to the Estadio da Luza on Wednesday.

The 22-year-old has penned a five-year deal with the Portuguese giants.

Witsel is expected to be soon followed out of Liege by midfield colleague Steven Defour - who is in talks with Lokomotiv Moscow.

One player linked to replace Witsel is Germinal Beerschot's Faris Haroun - who was previously interesting Ipswich.

Aguero - I am leaving

2011-07-13T12:24:00.001-07:00

Sergio Aguero has reaffirmed his desire to quit Atletico Madrid.

The Argentine starlet revealed earlier this summer that he wanted to leave Vicente Calderon, and he has been strongly linked with Real Madrid, as well as Chelsea and Manchester City.

However, his father was quoted earlier this week suggesting that his son could yet remain.

But speaking from his homeland, where he is taking part in the Copa America, Aguero underlined his desire to find a new club.

"I will not return to Atletico, it is clear," he told ESPN.

"I talked to the club, gave a statement, now my representatives are negotiating my departure from the club.

"I don't know when the agreement will be, but I will know when the Copa America is finished."