Paris, April 10 (Ians) Marseille failed to keep up with the top two sides in the league title race as they were forced to a 0-0 draw at Lorient in the French Ligue 1.
Igor Tudor’s side have lost four precious points in two recent league matches as they drew with mid-table Montpellier 1-1 at home last week, reports Xinhua.
“It’s disappointing. The match was within our grasp, but we were lacking when it mattered most,” Marseille midfielder Matteo Guendouzi said.
“There’s no pressure, there’s still a lot of matches,” the French international added.
Table-topping Paris Saint Germain bounced back from two consecutive home defeats to notch a 2-0 win at Nice on Saturday, maintaining a six-point lead ahead of Lens, who beat Strasbourg 2-1 at home on Friday. Marseille sit third, two more points behind.
Both sides created some chances but failed to convert them. Marseille staved...
Igor Tudor’s side have lost four precious points in two recent league matches as they drew with mid-table Montpellier 1-1 at home last week, reports Xinhua.
“It’s disappointing. The match was within our grasp, but we were lacking when it mattered most,” Marseille midfielder Matteo Guendouzi said.
“There’s no pressure, there’s still a lot of matches,” the French international added.
Table-topping Paris Saint Germain bounced back from two consecutive home defeats to notch a 2-0 win at Nice on Saturday, maintaining a six-point lead ahead of Lens, who beat Strasbourg 2-1 at home on Friday. Marseille sit third, two more points behind.
Both sides created some chances but failed to convert them. Marseille staved...
- 4/10/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Michel Euler/AP/Press Association Images
We’re edging closer to the conclusion of the Champions League and there is only eight teams left in the competition. The favourites for glory consist of the same names we hear year after year; Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. However, it is unwise to overlook the other five teams left in the competition – particularly Paris Gaint Germain.
Unlike the other teams left in the competition, they are the only side left from their nation. A quarter-final clash with Premier League leaders Chelsea is on the horizon and the side from the French capital are capable of giving Jose Mourinho’s side a decent game. If the French side emerged victorious, it wouldn’t be an upset.
Ligue 1 has grown in stature in recent years due to the money that is being pumped into clubs like Psg and Monaco, which has seen the...
We’re edging closer to the conclusion of the Champions League and there is only eight teams left in the competition. The favourites for glory consist of the same names we hear year after year; Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. However, it is unwise to overlook the other five teams left in the competition – particularly Paris Gaint Germain.
Unlike the other teams left in the competition, they are the only side left from their nation. A quarter-final clash with Premier League leaders Chelsea is on the horizon and the side from the French capital are capable of giving Jose Mourinho’s side a decent game. If the French side emerged victorious, it wouldn’t be an upset.
Ligue 1 has grown in stature in recent years due to the money that is being pumped into clubs like Psg and Monaco, which has seen the...
- 3/25/2014
- by Josh Challies
- Obsessed with Film
Barrington Coombs/Empics Sport
Newcastle United have agreed a deal “in principle” to sell midfielder Yohan Cabaye to Paris St. Germain, Sky Sources understand (via Teamtalk).
It is believed The Magpies have received a “significantly higher” bid than the £14 million offer from the French giants that was rejected on Sunday. Although no figure is yet to be reported, Newcastle fans will be hoping that the club stayed strong and were able to negotiate a fee of at least £20 million for their star player.
Cabaye’s future at Newcastle looked suspect in the final weeks of the January window as Psg’s interest in taking him to the French capital grew. Psg boss Laurent Blanc had named the 28-year-old in a press conference last week as one of his key transfer targets.
Teamtalk report that it was ultimately Cabaye’s desire to play Champions League football again that has led to his St.
Newcastle United have agreed a deal “in principle” to sell midfielder Yohan Cabaye to Paris St. Germain, Sky Sources understand (via Teamtalk).
It is believed The Magpies have received a “significantly higher” bid than the £14 million offer from the French giants that was rejected on Sunday. Although no figure is yet to be reported, Newcastle fans will be hoping that the club stayed strong and were able to negotiate a fee of at least £20 million for their star player.
Cabaye’s future at Newcastle looked suspect in the final weeks of the January window as Psg’s interest in taking him to the French capital grew. Psg boss Laurent Blanc had named the 28-year-old in a press conference last week as one of his key transfer targets.
Teamtalk report that it was ultimately Cabaye’s desire to play Champions League football again that has led to his St.
- 1/28/2014
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
Owen Humphreys/Pa Wire/Press Association Images
Newcastle United have rejected a £14 million bid from Paris Saint-Germain for midfielder Yohan Cabaye, according to the BBC.
The move comes amidst long-term interest from the French champions, whose boss Laurent Blanc has admitted would like to sign Cabaye.
But Magpies manager Alan Pardew is desperate to keep hold of the Frenchman, having also rebuffed a £10 million offer from Arsenal for the 28-year-old last summer.
The concern however is that Cabaye could now attempt to force through a move, with the January transfer window set to slam shut this Friday.
The midfielder went on strike when it became apparent he would not be sold to the Gunners last summer, though he later backtracked and apologised to his club’s fans.
However, Newcastle are now fighting another battle to hold on to their star man, with a second bid from Psg thought to be...
Newcastle United have rejected a £14 million bid from Paris Saint-Germain for midfielder Yohan Cabaye, according to the BBC.
The move comes amidst long-term interest from the French champions, whose boss Laurent Blanc has admitted would like to sign Cabaye.
But Magpies manager Alan Pardew is desperate to keep hold of the Frenchman, having also rebuffed a £10 million offer from Arsenal for the 28-year-old last summer.
The concern however is that Cabaye could now attempt to force through a move, with the January transfer window set to slam shut this Friday.
The midfielder went on strike when it became apparent he would not be sold to the Gunners last summer, though he later backtracked and apologised to his club’s fans.
However, Newcastle are now fighting another battle to hold on to their star man, with a second bid from Psg thought to be...
- 1/27/2014
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Owen Humphreys/Pa Wire/Press Association Images
Newcastle United have rejected a £14 million bid from Paris Saint-Germain for their star midfielder Yohan Cabaye, according to Sky Sports (via TeamTalk).
The offer won’t have come unexpected from the Newcastle hierarchy as Psg boss Laurent Blanc recently named Cabaye as one of his key transfer targets.
Newcastle fans must now endure an anxious wait before the January transfer window shuts on Friday, no doubt hoping that Psg won’t make an increased offer and meet The Magpies’ valuation, which is believed to be in excess of £20 million.
Former French national team coach Blanc purposefully named Cabaye and Roma’s Miralem Pjanic as his top choices to improve Psg’s midfielder this window last week.
Cabaye, who Blanc gave his first international debut to whilst coach of France, has been in great form in the past few months and in this author’s eyes,...
Newcastle United have rejected a £14 million bid from Paris Saint-Germain for their star midfielder Yohan Cabaye, according to Sky Sports (via TeamTalk).
The offer won’t have come unexpected from the Newcastle hierarchy as Psg boss Laurent Blanc recently named Cabaye as one of his key transfer targets.
Newcastle fans must now endure an anxious wait before the January transfer window shuts on Friday, no doubt hoping that Psg won’t make an increased offer and meet The Magpies’ valuation, which is believed to be in excess of £20 million.
Former French national team coach Blanc purposefully named Cabaye and Roma’s Miralem Pjanic as his top choices to improve Psg’s midfielder this window last week.
Cabaye, who Blanc gave his first international debut to whilst coach of France, has been in great form in the past few months and in this author’s eyes,...
- 1/26/2014
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
There is more bad news for Chelsea following Tuesday’s shock Capital One Cup quarter final exit at Sunderland as Eden Hazard is on the radar of Paris Saint-Germain.
According to the Daily Express, the Ligue 1 heavyweights want to spend big again by recruiting Belgian attacker Hazard as well as French pair Paul Pogba and Raphael Varane.
Hazard, 22, is the Blues’ top scorer this term with eight goals and Psg could begin the bidding at £34 million. This interest will not be welcomed by Jose Mourinho, however, as he is worried about the Stamford Bridge attack.
Psg coach Laurent Blanc has turned to Hazard because his team is over-reliant on strikers Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Edinson Cavani for goals. He is also tracking Juventus midfielder Pogba and Real Madrid defender Varane because Blaise Matuidi and Zoumana Camara are out of contract at the Parc des Princes this summer.
Attempts...
There is more bad news for Chelsea following Tuesday’s shock Capital One Cup quarter final exit at Sunderland as Eden Hazard is on the radar of Paris Saint-Germain.
According to the Daily Express, the Ligue 1 heavyweights want to spend big again by recruiting Belgian attacker Hazard as well as French pair Paul Pogba and Raphael Varane.
Hazard, 22, is the Blues’ top scorer this term with eight goals and Psg could begin the bidding at £34 million. This interest will not be welcomed by Jose Mourinho, however, as he is worried about the Stamford Bridge attack.
Psg coach Laurent Blanc has turned to Hazard because his team is over-reliant on strikers Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Edinson Cavani for goals. He is also tracking Juventus midfielder Pogba and Real Madrid defender Varane because Blaise Matuidi and Zoumana Camara are out of contract at the Parc des Princes this summer.
Attempts...
- 12/18/2013
- by Jamie Clark
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
Newcastle are bracing themselves for fresh interest in midfielder Yohan Cabaye in the January transfer window, with both Arsenal and Liverpool interested, according to the Express.
Arsenal made an £11 million offer for the 27-year-old over the summer, which was swiftly rejected, and manager Arsene Wenger has not given up hope of signing the France international.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are also thought to be interested, and are set to rival for Gunners for the services of the former Lille man in the New Year.
There is also interest from the continent, with Roma manager Rudi Garcia keen to be reunited with Cabaye having coached him at Lille.
Paris Saint-Germain boss Laurent Blanc is also interested, but may now have turned his attentions to other targets.
It is understood Newcastle are unwilling to listen to offers for Cabaye unless a club matches their £18 million valuation of the player.
Feasibly, that...
Newcastle are bracing themselves for fresh interest in midfielder Yohan Cabaye in the January transfer window, with both Arsenal and Liverpool interested, according to the Express.
Arsenal made an £11 million offer for the 27-year-old over the summer, which was swiftly rejected, and manager Arsene Wenger has not given up hope of signing the France international.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are also thought to be interested, and are set to rival for Gunners for the services of the former Lille man in the New Year.
There is also interest from the continent, with Roma manager Rudi Garcia keen to be reunited with Cabaye having coached him at Lille.
Paris Saint-Germain boss Laurent Blanc is also interested, but may now have turned his attentions to other targets.
It is understood Newcastle are unwilling to listen to offers for Cabaye unless a club matches their £18 million valuation of the player.
Feasibly, that...
- 11/6/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
Arsenal look set to miss out on Yohan Cabaye after French champions Paris Saint-Germain reportedly made a €15 million bid for the Newcastle United midfielder, according to L’Equipe.
The French newspaper claims Psg have submitted a rival bid to the Gunner’s £10 million offer earlier this week, which was rejected by Newcastle.
Psg manager Laurent Blanc has previously spoken of his admiration for Cabaye and desire to work with him.
“Cabaye? There are a lot of things that you [journalists] write in the press.
“At the moment I can only say that I love this player.”
And the Ligue 1 side have now apparently made their interest in Cabaye formal by submitting an official offer to Newcastle, to avoid the prospect of losing out on their target to Arsenal.
Missing out on the Newcastle star would be a blow for Gunners boss Arsene Wenger, who has already seen a...
Arsenal look set to miss out on Yohan Cabaye after French champions Paris Saint-Germain reportedly made a €15 million bid for the Newcastle United midfielder, according to L’Equipe.
The French newspaper claims Psg have submitted a rival bid to the Gunner’s £10 million offer earlier this week, which was rejected by Newcastle.
Psg manager Laurent Blanc has previously spoken of his admiration for Cabaye and desire to work with him.
“Cabaye? There are a lot of things that you [journalists] write in the press.
“At the moment I can only say that I love this player.”
And the Ligue 1 side have now apparently made their interest in Cabaye formal by submitting an official offer to Newcastle, to avoid the prospect of losing out on their target to Arsenal.
Missing out on the Newcastle star would be a blow for Gunners boss Arsene Wenger, who has already seen a...
- 8/22/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Back in 2004, Wayne Rooney, was the most sought after teenager in football. Having fought off other clubs, Manchester United signed the prodigious teenager for £25.6 million plus add-ons. A fee which was a record for a teenager. On his debut, a Champions League match against Fenerbache, Rooney introduced himself with aplomb. He scored a hat-trick and whilst he was already a fans favourite following his signature, this feat further cemented him as such.
Following years of successes, on 19th October 2010, Sir Alex Ferguson stated that Wayne Rooney wants to leave Manchester United and will therefore not be extending his contract (BBC Sport). In what was considered as a huge u-turn, within a few days, Wayne Rooney extended his contract, withdrew his transfer request and therefore pledged his allegiance with the club (BBC Sport). Back then, the player himself claimed that he wanted “assurances about the continued ability of the club to...
Following years of successes, on 19th October 2010, Sir Alex Ferguson stated that Wayne Rooney wants to leave Manchester United and will therefore not be extending his contract (BBC Sport). In what was considered as a huge u-turn, within a few days, Wayne Rooney extended his contract, withdrew his transfer request and therefore pledged his allegiance with the club (BBC Sport). Back then, the player himself claimed that he wanted “assurances about the continued ability of the club to...
- 7/21/2013
- by Gerhardt Camilleri
- Obsessed with Film
Manchester United will switch their attentions to Yohan Cabaye if their bid for Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas fails, according to the Daily Star.
New United manager David Moyes wants to bring in two new midfielders this summer and Fabregas is the priority. The Premier League champions lodged an opening offer of £26 million for the Spain international earlier this week.
Everton’s utility man Marouane Fellaini is also being tracked by the Red Devils.
But United’s pursuit of Fabregas appeared to take a nosedive yesterday when Barca manager Tito Vilanova stated the former Arsenal captain wants to stay at the Nou Camp.
The Reds could now turn to Newcastle United’s Cabaye instead, who is also on the radar of French duo Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco.
Psg boss Laurent Blanc got under Magpies’ manager Alan Pardew’s skin recently after speaking publicly of his admiration for Cabaye.
It is understood...
New United manager David Moyes wants to bring in two new midfielders this summer and Fabregas is the priority. The Premier League champions lodged an opening offer of £26 million for the Spain international earlier this week.
Everton’s utility man Marouane Fellaini is also being tracked by the Red Devils.
But United’s pursuit of Fabregas appeared to take a nosedive yesterday when Barca manager Tito Vilanova stated the former Arsenal captain wants to stay at the Nou Camp.
The Reds could now turn to Newcastle United’s Cabaye instead, who is also on the radar of French duo Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco.
Psg boss Laurent Blanc got under Magpies’ manager Alan Pardew’s skin recently after speaking publicly of his admiration for Cabaye.
It is understood...
- 7/17/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Paris Saint-Germain striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic could be set for a summer move to either Chelsea or Manchester City, according to the Daily Star.
The Swedish international has had a falling out with Psg manager Laurent Blanc over the signing of Edinson Cavani. The French champions will fork out £54 million for the Napoli striker and hand him a bumper contract, and Ibrahimovic isn’t pleased.
The 31-year-old could now quit the Parc des Princes, just one year after signing from Milan, and that has put Chelsea and City on alert, both of whom are in the market for a new striker this summer.
The Blues have been left frustrated in their recent efforts to bring in more firepower having missed out on Cavani, as well as Radamel Falcao and Neymar.
Manager Jose Mourinho is looking to offload Demba Ba and needs a replacement.
There are also doubts over the long-term future of Fernando Torres,...
The Swedish international has had a falling out with Psg manager Laurent Blanc over the signing of Edinson Cavani. The French champions will fork out £54 million for the Napoli striker and hand him a bumper contract, and Ibrahimovic isn’t pleased.
The 31-year-old could now quit the Parc des Princes, just one year after signing from Milan, and that has put Chelsea and City on alert, both of whom are in the market for a new striker this summer.
The Blues have been left frustrated in their recent efforts to bring in more firepower having missed out on Cavani, as well as Radamel Falcao and Neymar.
Manager Jose Mourinho is looking to offload Demba Ba and needs a replacement.
There are also doubts over the long-term future of Fernando Torres,...
- 7/17/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic is a summer target for big spending French outfit Paris Saint-Germain, according to the Mirror
Psg manager Laurent Blanc is in the market for a new right-sided defender, with Gregory van der Wiel looking set for a switch to Inter Milan.
The French champions are prepared to pay £8 million plus add-ons for the 29-year-old Serbian international, and are willing to offer Ivanovic a four-year-contract and a huge pay rise.
Blanc is said to be impressed by the former Lokomotiv Moscow man’s versatility – he can play both as a centre-back and as a right-back.
Ivanovic has been a consistently-outstanding performer for Chelsea since his move to Stamford Bridge five years ago, but Psg’s interest will serve as a gauge as to whether he factors into returning Blues manager Jose Mourinho’s plans next season.
The defender has made 141 appearances for Chelsea and last season won...
Psg manager Laurent Blanc is in the market for a new right-sided defender, with Gregory van der Wiel looking set for a switch to Inter Milan.
The French champions are prepared to pay £8 million plus add-ons for the 29-year-old Serbian international, and are willing to offer Ivanovic a four-year-contract and a huge pay rise.
Blanc is said to be impressed by the former Lokomotiv Moscow man’s versatility – he can play both as a centre-back and as a right-back.
Ivanovic has been a consistently-outstanding performer for Chelsea since his move to Stamford Bridge five years ago, but Psg’s interest will serve as a gauge as to whether he factors into returning Blues manager Jose Mourinho’s plans next season.
The defender has made 141 appearances for Chelsea and last season won...
- 7/15/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
As the pre-season fast approaches, the rumor mills are going into overdrive with gossip at fever pitch as to which superstars might be coming in or going out from the Barclay’s Premier League.
A mixture of players being out of favour and other players who want a fresh start with the next year’s World Cup fast approaching being the main reason for changing teams.
The manager merry go round is another reason for the flurry of transfer movement with new managers at a number of top clubs around Europe; the likes of Moyes, Ancelotti, Pelegrini, Blanc and Mourinho will all have their eyes on their targets.
Let’s take a closer look at the Blockbuster moves that could be coming in and going out before the start of a historic Premier League campaign.
5. Edinson Cavani
Ever since As Monaco snapped up Radamel Falcao from Atletico Madrid, attentions have...
A mixture of players being out of favour and other players who want a fresh start with the next year’s World Cup fast approaching being the main reason for changing teams.
The manager merry go round is another reason for the flurry of transfer movement with new managers at a number of top clubs around Europe; the likes of Moyes, Ancelotti, Pelegrini, Blanc and Mourinho will all have their eyes on their targets.
Let’s take a closer look at the Blockbuster moves that could be coming in and going out before the start of a historic Premier League campaign.
5. Edinson Cavani
Ever since As Monaco snapped up Radamel Falcao from Atletico Madrid, attentions have...
- 7/5/2013
- by Daniel McAleer
- Obsessed with Film
As the pre-season fast approaches, the rumour mills are going in to overdrive with gossip at fever-pitch as to which superstars might be coming in or going out of the Barclay’s Premier League.
A mixture of players being out of favor and others who want a fresh start; one thing they all have in common is a desire to play at next summer’s World Cup in Brazil. the managerial merry-go-round had added a further dimension to this, with a number of top clubs in Europe appointing new managers who will all want to put their own stamp at their respective clubs.
Expectation is rife that the likes of David Moyes, Laurent Blanc, Jose Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti and Manuel Pellegrini will be very busy over the coming months.
Let’s now take a look at the stars who could be arriving and also the ones that might be departing...
A mixture of players being out of favor and others who want a fresh start; one thing they all have in common is a desire to play at next summer’s World Cup in Brazil. the managerial merry-go-round had added a further dimension to this, with a number of top clubs in Europe appointing new managers who will all want to put their own stamp at their respective clubs.
Expectation is rife that the likes of David Moyes, Laurent Blanc, Jose Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti and Manuel Pellegrini will be very busy over the coming months.
Let’s now take a look at the stars who could be arriving and also the ones that might be departing...
- 6/28/2013
- by Daniel McAleer
- Obsessed with Film
Former Chelsea supremo Carlo Ancelotti has been appointed the new head coach of Real Madrid, signing a three year contract to replace Jose Mourinho, the club have announced.
After signalling his intention to leave Paris Saint Germain earlier this summer, he has now got his wish to take over at The Bernabeu; with former French head coach Laurent Blanc taking over at Psg.
Ancelotti is to be presented to the media on Wednesday afternoon, but the deal had reportedly been done weeks ago with the only hurdle; Psg searching for a replacement for the Italian.
A statement on Real Madrid’s club website describes Ancelotti as:
“More than accustomed to leading some of the continents biggest teams (Juventus, Milan, Chelsea and Psg), Ancelotti is synonymous with an exciting new project for the club.”
The new Real head coach is already a decorated manager. He had lifted Madrid’s holy grail...
After signalling his intention to leave Paris Saint Germain earlier this summer, he has now got his wish to take over at The Bernabeu; with former French head coach Laurent Blanc taking over at Psg.
Ancelotti is to be presented to the media on Wednesday afternoon, but the deal had reportedly been done weeks ago with the only hurdle; Psg searching for a replacement for the Italian.
A statement on Real Madrid’s club website describes Ancelotti as:
“More than accustomed to leading some of the continents biggest teams (Juventus, Milan, Chelsea and Psg), Ancelotti is synonymous with an exciting new project for the club.”
The new Real head coach is already a decorated manager. He had lifted Madrid’s holy grail...
- 6/25/2013
- by Rob Munro
- Obsessed with Film
Arsene Wenger has confirmed to the club’s official website that he will not be making a move for France’s highly-rated defensive midfielder Yann M’Vila, who was watched last season by Wenger’s scouting team at current club Rennes.
Wenger dismissed talk of a move for Yann M’Vila, giving the reason that he is already well stocked in midfield:
“No [I am not interested]. We wait on Diaby and Wilshere. When you look we have Song, Ramsey, Coquelin, Wilshere, Arteta and Diaby.
In defensive midfielders and box-to-box players we are not short if they are all coming back. If we have setbacks in pre-season it could be different.”
M’Vila, 22, made three appearances for France at the European Championships in Poland and the Ukraine, but attracted controversy during the tournament. According to the Mirror manager Arsene Wenger was keen to sign the 22-year-old for £7.5million deal, but his interest waned due to his behaviour,...
Wenger dismissed talk of a move for Yann M’Vila, giving the reason that he is already well stocked in midfield:
“No [I am not interested]. We wait on Diaby and Wilshere. When you look we have Song, Ramsey, Coquelin, Wilshere, Arteta and Diaby.
In defensive midfielders and box-to-box players we are not short if they are all coming back. If we have setbacks in pre-season it could be different.”
M’Vila, 22, made three appearances for France at the European Championships in Poland and the Ukraine, but attracted controversy during the tournament. According to the Mirror manager Arsene Wenger was keen to sign the 22-year-old for £7.5million deal, but his interest waned due to his behaviour,...
- 7/23/2012
- by Simon Gallagher
- Obsessed with Film
Today is a potentially huge day in the history of English football. The national team is looking to get past the quarter final stage of a major tournament for the first time in 16 years, 20 years if you take into account tournaments on foreign soil. Everyone is asking can they win? Will they win?
Semantics aside the answer is yes. As long as you are in it when the shouting starts then anything can happen.
The problem is how do Roy Hodgson and his unlikely lads go about beating Italy then Germany then Spain or Portugal. Three quarter finals so far have shown three teams so terrified of losing they didn’t even bother trying to win. They set out to play what has now been coined “the England way” which was formerly known as “the Chelsea way” which many moons ago was mocked by Jose Mourinho when he was in...
Semantics aside the answer is yes. As long as you are in it when the shouting starts then anything can happen.
The problem is how do Roy Hodgson and his unlikely lads go about beating Italy then Germany then Spain or Portugal. Three quarter finals so far have shown three teams so terrified of losing they didn’t even bother trying to win. They set out to play what has now been coined “the England way” which was formerly known as “the Chelsea way” which many moons ago was mocked by Jose Mourinho when he was in...
- 6/24/2012
- by Robert MacDonald
- Obsessed with Film
Defending European Champions Spain advanced to the Semi-Finals after sweeping aside a lacklustre France team.
Xabi Alonso’s fourteenth and fifteenth international goals on his 100th cap helped Spain go against tradition and beat France in the knock-out stages of a major tournament.
The Real Madrid midfielder headed home the first goal after 19 minutes before scoring a late penalty following Anthony Reveillere’s clumsy challenge on Pedro Rodriguez.
The Spanish started with the same eleven that opened their campaign against Italy, preferring Cesc Fabregas to Fernando Torres.
After days of unsettled behaviour in the French camp, Laurent Blanc opted to make three changes to try and deal with the fluent Spanish. Mathieu Debuchy was moved to the right wing as Reveillere dropped in behind him at right back. Yohan Cabaye and Florent Malouda were started ahead of Samir Nasri (possible knee injury) and Alou Diarra. While Philippe Mexes was suspended,...
Xabi Alonso’s fourteenth and fifteenth international goals on his 100th cap helped Spain go against tradition and beat France in the knock-out stages of a major tournament.
The Real Madrid midfielder headed home the first goal after 19 minutes before scoring a late penalty following Anthony Reveillere’s clumsy challenge on Pedro Rodriguez.
The Spanish started with the same eleven that opened their campaign against Italy, preferring Cesc Fabregas to Fernando Torres.
After days of unsettled behaviour in the French camp, Laurent Blanc opted to make three changes to try and deal with the fluent Spanish. Mathieu Debuchy was moved to the right wing as Reveillere dropped in behind him at right back. Yohan Cabaye and Florent Malouda were started ahead of Samir Nasri (possible knee injury) and Alou Diarra. While Philippe Mexes was suspended,...
- 6/23/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
As unbelievable as it may sound, Spain haven’t beaten France in major competition for 28 years.
The two sides go toe to toe tonight in the penultimate Euro 2012 quarter final, and Spain will have revenge on their minds having suffered heartache against Les Bleus five times, in the Euro ’84 final, twice in the Euro ’92 qualifiers and the quarter-finals of both Euro 2000 and the 2006 World Cup.
The Spaniards will have to be on top form tonight if they are to see off Laurent Blanc’s men as they aim to inch one step closer to becoming the first team in history to win three major tournaments on the trot, having won the 2010 World Cup and 2008 European Championships.
So, can the La Furia Roja inflict revenge on Les Bleus tonight?
The Defence
France will be without veteran defender Philippe Mexes, who is suspended after picking up his second yellow card of the competition.
The two sides go toe to toe tonight in the penultimate Euro 2012 quarter final, and Spain will have revenge on their minds having suffered heartache against Les Bleus five times, in the Euro ’84 final, twice in the Euro ’92 qualifiers and the quarter-finals of both Euro 2000 and the 2006 World Cup.
The Spaniards will have to be on top form tonight if they are to see off Laurent Blanc’s men as they aim to inch one step closer to becoming the first team in history to win three major tournaments on the trot, having won the 2010 World Cup and 2008 European Championships.
So, can the La Furia Roja inflict revenge on Les Bleus tonight?
The Defence
France will be without veteran defender Philippe Mexes, who is suspended after picking up his second yellow card of the competition.
- 6/23/2012
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Jose Mourinho has convinced the Real Madrid hierarchy to spend £30 million to secure the signature of Tottenham Hotspur star Luka Modric, according to a report in The Daily Mail.
The Spanish giants are preparing the bid for the 26-year-old playmaker ahead of Manchester United and Chelsea who have both wanted to bring Modric to their clubs but have been priced out.
Giving that Modric is unsettled at Spurs and wants to play at a Champions League club challenging for trophies, Madrid are confident of securing the move.
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy turned down a £30 million offer from Chelsea last summer for Modric, reportedly holding out for an extra £5 million. One year later and with Spurs needing to do some re-building under a new manager, it is expected that £30 million will secure the move.
Meanwhile Spurs are waiting on France manager Laurent Blanc to return from Euro 2012 before they make a...
The Spanish giants are preparing the bid for the 26-year-old playmaker ahead of Manchester United and Chelsea who have both wanted to bring Modric to their clubs but have been priced out.
Giving that Modric is unsettled at Spurs and wants to play at a Champions League club challenging for trophies, Madrid are confident of securing the move.
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy turned down a £30 million offer from Chelsea last summer for Modric, reportedly holding out for an extra £5 million. One year later and with Spurs needing to do some re-building under a new manager, it is expected that £30 million will secure the move.
Meanwhile Spurs are waiting on France manager Laurent Blanc to return from Euro 2012 before they make a...
- 6/22/2012
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
If the Spurs directors decide that current French manager and former Manchester United centre-half Laurent Blanc is indeed the man they need to sort the club out after Harry Redknapp’s departure, then they can potentially count on the manager’s wealth of knowledge relating to the current crop of French players.
The French league has recently proved a rich mine for affordable talent, thanks predominantly to the willingness of Newcastle United Chief Scout Graham Carr to look for the opportunities to bring talented players across the Channel. The success of both Yohan Cabaye and Hatem Ben Arfa at St James Park this year has turned more heads than Carr’s towards French squads, and the relative in-expense of those players in comparison to established English players, and their quick integration into the Premier League makes them even more attractive.
Counting on Blanc’s knowledge of the league, and his...
The French league has recently proved a rich mine for affordable talent, thanks predominantly to the willingness of Newcastle United Chief Scout Graham Carr to look for the opportunities to bring talented players across the Channel. The success of both Yohan Cabaye and Hatem Ben Arfa at St James Park this year has turned more heads than Carr’s towards French squads, and the relative in-expense of those players in comparison to established English players, and their quick integration into the Premier League makes them even more attractive.
Counting on Blanc’s knowledge of the league, and his...
- 6/20/2012
- by Simon Gallagher
- Obsessed with Film
France enter the Olympic Stadium in Kiev knowing that a point will secure passage into the knockout stage. They face a Sweden team that is playing for nothing more than pride.
Laurent Blanc’s men will want the win that will hopefully see them finish as group winners, as second place is likely to mean a match against current World and European champions Spain in the quarter finals.
Yann M’vila made his comeback in the 2-0 win over Ukraine and might start in place of Alou Diarra. Jeremy Menez is set to retain his place after opening the goalscoring in Donetsk after the thunder storms had passed, and Les Bleus enter the game on the back of a 23 match unbeaten streak and will be strong favourites against Erik Hamren and his team.
The 3-2 loss against England made it two losses on the spin for the Swedes and no...
Laurent Blanc’s men will want the win that will hopefully see them finish as group winners, as second place is likely to mean a match against current World and European champions Spain in the quarter finals.
Yann M’vila made his comeback in the 2-0 win over Ukraine and might start in place of Alou Diarra. Jeremy Menez is set to retain his place after opening the goalscoring in Donetsk after the thunder storms had passed, and Les Bleus enter the game on the back of a 23 match unbeaten streak and will be strong favourites against Erik Hamren and his team.
The 3-2 loss against England made it two losses on the spin for the Swedes and no...
- 6/19/2012
- by Alan Frost
- Obsessed with Film
Tottenham Chairman Daniel Levy has expressed a desire to discuss the vacant managerial position at White Hart Lane with France national coach and former Manchester United defender Laurent Blanc.
According to The Mirror, Blanc has emerged as the new favourite to replace Harry Redknapp who was sacked last week.
The early front-runner appeared to be Chelsea failure Andre Villas-Boas but Levy is unwilling to commit until he’s talked to all the best candidates which includes Blanc, whose contract in charge of the French national team ends after Euro 2012. Theoretically, in the unlikely event that France were knocked out of the tournament tonight, his time with France would be over and he would be free to join Spurs by the end of the week.
Rumours of a potential player revolt at Spurs over Villas-Boas’ potential appointment also may push Levy in the direction of Laurent Blanc who has done a...
According to The Mirror, Blanc has emerged as the new favourite to replace Harry Redknapp who was sacked last week.
The early front-runner appeared to be Chelsea failure Andre Villas-Boas but Levy is unwilling to commit until he’s talked to all the best candidates which includes Blanc, whose contract in charge of the French national team ends after Euro 2012. Theoretically, in the unlikely event that France were knocked out of the tournament tonight, his time with France would be over and he would be free to join Spurs by the end of the week.
Rumours of a potential player revolt at Spurs over Villas-Boas’ potential appointment also may push Levy in the direction of Laurent Blanc who has done a...
- 6/19/2012
- by Luke Stevenson
- Obsessed with Film
Sky Sports News have announced that France manager Laurent Blanc is in ‘preliminary talks’ to become the new manager of Tottenham Hotspur.
The 46-year-old’s contract with the French national team will end after the Euro 2012 tournament which will make him available to make a managerial debut in the Premier League.
The Tottenham board are said to be in early talks with several candidates about becoming the replacement for outed Spurs boss Harry Redknapp. Another name in the running for the job is former Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas.
The Mail Online claimed that the Spurs players were unhappy with the decision to relieve Harry Redknapp of his duties and that they favor Laurent Blanc over Villas-Boas.
Blanc who is now 2/1 to take the Spurs job with Andre Villas-Boas still the favorite being 1/3, this may however quickly change if the Sky Sources are correct. Blanc is currently preparing the French International...
The 46-year-old’s contract with the French national team will end after the Euro 2012 tournament which will make him available to make a managerial debut in the Premier League.
The Tottenham board are said to be in early talks with several candidates about becoming the replacement for outed Spurs boss Harry Redknapp. Another name in the running for the job is former Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas.
The Mail Online claimed that the Spurs players were unhappy with the decision to relieve Harry Redknapp of his duties and that they favor Laurent Blanc over Villas-Boas.
Blanc who is now 2/1 to take the Spurs job with Andre Villas-Boas still the favorite being 1/3, this may however quickly change if the Sky Sources are correct. Blanc is currently preparing the French International...
- 6/18/2012
- by Matt Robinson
- Obsessed with Film
France strolled to a 2-0 win over Ukraine in the Donbass Arena. Goals from Jeremy Menez and Yohan Cabaye secured the three points and put France in a great position to qualify for the quarter finals.
Menez was preferred to Chelsea’s Florent Malouda and fully justified his manager’s faith, opening the scoring in the second half when he cut inside onto his left foot after a France break. Menez had missed several good chance sin the first half, and was arguably lucky to remain on the pitch after a nasty foul, having been booked earlier in the first half.
Good play by Karim Benzema set up Cabaye for the second goal, and the Newcastle midfielder hit the post with another effort. In the end it was a very comfortable victory for Laurent Blanc’s men as Ukraine failed to get the ball off the French.
The second round...
Menez was preferred to Chelsea’s Florent Malouda and fully justified his manager’s faith, opening the scoring in the second half when he cut inside onto his left foot after a France break. Menez had missed several good chance sin the first half, and was arguably lucky to remain on the pitch after a nasty foul, having been booked earlier in the first half.
Good play by Karim Benzema set up Cabaye for the second goal, and the Newcastle midfielder hit the post with another effort. In the end it was a very comfortable victory for Laurent Blanc’s men as Ukraine failed to get the ball off the French.
The second round...
- 6/15/2012
- by Alan Frost
- Obsessed with Film
The second round of Group D matches kicks off with hosts and group leaders Ukraine taking on France in Donetsk. Both teams have reason to be cheerful at how their tournaments have started, but for the hosts this presents a much stiffer test.
Thanks to Andriy Shevchenko’s two goals, Ukraine beat Sweden in their opening game. Oleg Blokhin’s men had to come from a goal behind but in the end they got the win, to the delight of the partisan crowd. With Yarmolenko and Konoplyanka running the wings, showing pace and creativity, the Ukrainians showed enough to concern France coach Laurent Blanc.
Indeed, the two wide men, rather than star striker Shevchenko, could be the match winners as France tend to leave their full backs exposed. Samir Nasri and Franck Ribery are not known for their defensive diligence, and if the Ukrainian defence can neuter the duo’s...
Thanks to Andriy Shevchenko’s two goals, Ukraine beat Sweden in their opening game. Oleg Blokhin’s men had to come from a goal behind but in the end they got the win, to the delight of the partisan crowd. With Yarmolenko and Konoplyanka running the wings, showing pace and creativity, the Ukrainians showed enough to concern France coach Laurent Blanc.
Indeed, the two wide men, rather than star striker Shevchenko, could be the match winners as France tend to leave their full backs exposed. Samir Nasri and Franck Ribery are not known for their defensive diligence, and if the Ukrainian defence can neuter the duo’s...
- 6/15/2012
- by Alan Frost
- Obsessed with Film
England are still yet to win an opening match at a European Championships, despite taking a first-half lead against France. But considering a lead-in to the tournament that’s been less than smooth and the calibre of the rejuvenated opposition under Laurent Blanc, a draw was an extremely encouraging result. Injury and controversy had overshadowed the team’s preparation, but Roy Hodgson’s side deserve some credit for a hard-won point. Here’s a few examples of why the Three Lions showed immense promise against more highly fancied opponents:
1. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s Unlikely Start
International football holds few secrets these days, with players familiar with most their opponents – whether through reputation, television or playing with them in the melting pot that is the modern game at club level. However, Arsenal fans have barely seen the 18 year-old Oxlade-Chamberlain so what hope did the French camp have?
The youngster was tricky and unpredictable from the beginning,...
1. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s Unlikely Start
International football holds few secrets these days, with players familiar with most their opponents – whether through reputation, television or playing with them in the melting pot that is the modern game at club level. However, Arsenal fans have barely seen the 18 year-old Oxlade-Chamberlain so what hope did the French camp have?
The youngster was tricky and unpredictable from the beginning,...
- 6/11/2012
- by Robert Beames
- Obsessed with Film
England and France drew their opening game after a Joleon Lescott header was cancelled out by Samir Nasri’s low strike from the edge of the area. Chances were at a premium and James Milner had arguably the best chance of the lot but could not score after rounding the keeper.
Hodgson sprung something of a surprise by selecting Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on the left, but apart from the young Arsenal star England lined up as most expected. Milner was chosen over Theo Walcott on the right, primarily for his defensive diligence, and Danny Welbeck’s mobility was chosen over Carroll’s physicality, a nod perhaps to the physical but slightly lead-footed French centre backs .
France were missing Yann M’vila, but Alou Diarra was passed fit and filled the holding midfield position. Newcastle’s Yohan Cabaye and Chelsea’s Florent Malouda were selected ahead of him, with the attacking trio of Benzema,...
Hodgson sprung something of a surprise by selecting Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on the left, but apart from the young Arsenal star England lined up as most expected. Milner was chosen over Theo Walcott on the right, primarily for his defensive diligence, and Danny Welbeck’s mobility was chosen over Carroll’s physicality, a nod perhaps to the physical but slightly lead-footed French centre backs .
France were missing Yann M’vila, but Alou Diarra was passed fit and filled the holding midfield position. Newcastle’s Yohan Cabaye and Chelsea’s Florent Malouda were selected ahead of him, with the attacking trio of Benzema,...
- 6/11/2012
- by Alan Frost
- Obsessed with Film
The first match in Group D pits the two favourites of the group against each other. In terms of reputation, star names, and funding, England and France have more than their rivals Sweden or Ukraine. However, both teams enter the tournament with a certain amount of trepidation.
England only appointed Roy Hodgson 30 days before the start of the Euros. The absence of star player Wayne Rooney for the first two games presents an initial problem, as does the worryingly long injury list that has seen standbys for the standby list called up – but not Rio Ferdinand. The Ferdinand issue looks set to rumble on in the background, but Hodgson has more immediate concerns.
Scott Parker is carrying an Achilles knock as a tough season with Tottenham catches up with him. John Terry has a hamstring strain and the last thing England want is to face France’s intimidating forward line...
England only appointed Roy Hodgson 30 days before the start of the Euros. The absence of star player Wayne Rooney for the first two games presents an initial problem, as does the worryingly long injury list that has seen standbys for the standby list called up – but not Rio Ferdinand. The Ferdinand issue looks set to rumble on in the background, but Hodgson has more immediate concerns.
Scott Parker is carrying an Achilles knock as a tough season with Tottenham catches up with him. John Terry has a hamstring strain and the last thing England want is to face France’s intimidating forward line...
- 6/11/2012
- by Alan Frost
- Obsessed with Film
Newly crowned Serie A champions Juventus are tracking Newcastle United’s playmaker Hatem Ben Arfa ahead of a potential summer transfer raid, according to The Mirror.
Juventus, who have astonishingly gone the whole season without being beaten to clinch the Italian league title, are preparing for life in the Champions League and have been impressed by Ben Arfa’s performances this year, which has included two world class wonder goals from solo runs against Blackburn Rovers and Bolton Wanderers.
Inter Milan are also said to be tracking the midfielder, who has come back to enjoy a sensational second half to the season after overcoming a broken leg that kept him out of action for a whole year.
Newcastle bought Ben Arfa for £5.75 million from Marseille in January 2011, mid-way through a season long loan that was ended after just a handful of games. The 25-year-old took a while to get into...
Juventus, who have astonishingly gone the whole season without being beaten to clinch the Italian league title, are preparing for life in the Champions League and have been impressed by Ben Arfa’s performances this year, which has included two world class wonder goals from solo runs against Blackburn Rovers and Bolton Wanderers.
Inter Milan are also said to be tracking the midfielder, who has come back to enjoy a sensational second half to the season after overcoming a broken leg that kept him out of action for a whole year.
Newcastle bought Ben Arfa for £5.75 million from Marseille in January 2011, mid-way through a season long loan that was ended after just a handful of games. The 25-year-old took a while to get into...
- 5/9/2012
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
Roberto di Matteo is close to being named the permanent Chelsea manager after guiding the Blues to an unlikely Champions League final showdown against Bayern Munich, according to BBC Sport.
Chairman Roman Abramovich won’t make a decision until the end of the season but he has been nothing but impressed by di Matteo’s approach in rejuvenating a defeated side under Andre Villas-Boas and guiding them to just one defeat in 15 matches. The Russian owner is increasingly of the belief that the Italian could succeed and bring back trophies to Stamford Bridge.
He may not have to win the Champions League to secure the position either. Just getting the club to the final after beating European Champions Barcelona in a two-legged semi-final and guiding the club to an Fa Cup final against Liverpool next month may be deemed enough to win the post, though it might depend on how...
Chairman Roman Abramovich won’t make a decision until the end of the season but he has been nothing but impressed by di Matteo’s approach in rejuvenating a defeated side under Andre Villas-Boas and guiding them to just one defeat in 15 matches. The Russian owner is increasingly of the belief that the Italian could succeed and bring back trophies to Stamford Bridge.
He may not have to win the Champions League to secure the position either. Just getting the club to the final after beating European Champions Barcelona in a two-legged semi-final and guiding the club to an Fa Cup final against Liverpool next month may be deemed enough to win the post, though it might depend on how...
- 4/26/2012
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
• Michael Ballack’s injured ankle sidelines the German captain for the World Cup. [Espn] • Spain’s goalkeeper dilemma: a nice problem to have. [When Saturday Comes] • Can Sven save the Elephants? [BBC] • Now reporting for Team USA: the surprise rise of Buddle and Gomez. [New York Times] • Laurent Blanc to replace Domenech as France boss after World Cup. [Daily Mail] • The birth of Total Football. [BBC] • Inter Milan takes Serie A. [Goal] • Barcelona wins La Liga, finishes season with just one loss. [Guardian] • Chelsea wins Fa Cup, and Ancelotti takes to singing. [Nutmeg Radio] • Avram Grant and Chelsea’s rebirth. [Run of Play] (h/t Must Read Soccer)...
- 5/17/2010
- Vanity Fair
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