Chelsea manager Frank Lampard was left disgusted by racist abuse of striker Tammy Abraham online after the UEFA Super Cup final defeat to Liverpool midweek and called on social networks Friday to do more to prevent the publication of offensive content.

Abraham saw his penalty saved by Liverpool goalkeeper Adrian on Wednesday as the European champions won a shootout 5-4 after a 2-2 draw in Istanbul.

"I am particularly disgusted by a so-called Chelsea fan," said Lampard.&nbsp;

"Tammy Abraham asked me to take the fifth penalty because he wanted to take it, wanted to stand up, be brave when the world is watching.

"Within hours somebody sitting behind a keyboard or a phone has said the most disgusting things possible.

"I don't know how these platforms are allowed, it's too easy to be done, something needs to be done as well as people obviously changing their mindsets completely.

"I'm so angry for Tammy, angry for the club because that is not what the club is about. The club does a lot of work against discrimination at all levels and it is a setback when these things happen."

Abraham is still to score his first goal for the Chelsea first-team but is expected to get far more chance to shine this season under Lampard after loan spells at Swansea and Aston Villa the past two years.

"I’ve spoken with Tammy and he is a strong character. I love his character. He's a confident boy on the pitch, he wants to do really well for this football club," added Lampard.&nbsp;

"He has an opportunity to do that this year. He's a great young man. He's experienced something that's not right and it will be a test of that character that he shouldn't need but he's got great character."

Lampard is still seeking his first win since taking charge of the club he won 13 trophies with as a player after losing his opening Premier League match 4-0 at Manchester United last weekend.

Facing a refreshed United and relentless Liverpool was a baptism of fire for the former England international, but he wants the perfect homecoming when Leicester travel to Stamford Bridge for his first home game as Chelsea boss.

"We want to win at home, it's a big game for us in front of our home fans for the first time this season," he said.&nbsp;

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard was left disgusted by racist abuse of striker Tammy Abraham online after the UEFA Super Cup final defeat to Liverpool midweek and called on social networks Friday to do more to prevent the publication of offensive content.

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard was left disgusted by racist abuse of striker Tammy Abraham online after the UEFA Super Cup final defeat to Liverpool midweek and called on social networks Friday to do more to prevent the publication of offensive content. Abraham saw his penalty saved by Liverpool goalkeeper Adrian on Wednesday as the European champions won a shootout 5-4 after a 2-2 draw in Istanbul. "I am particularly disgusted by a so-called Chelsea fan," said Lampard. "Tammy Abraham asked me to take the fifth penalty because he wanted to take it, wanted to stand up, be brave when the world is watching. "Within hours somebody sitting behind a keyboard or a phone has said the most disgusting things possible. "I don't know how these platforms are allowed, it's too easy to be done, something needs to be done as well as people obviously changing their mindsets completely. "I'm so angry for Tammy, angry for the club because that is not what the club is about. The club does a lot of work against discrimination at all levels and it is a setback when these things happen." Abraham is still to score his first goal for the Chelsea first-team but is expected to get far more chance to shine this season under Lampard after loan spells at Swansea and Aston Villa the past two years. "I’ve spoken with Tammy and he is a strong character. I love his character. He's a confident boy on the pitch, he wants to do really well for this football club," added Lampard. "He has an opportunity to do that this year. He's a great young man. He's experienced something that's not right and it will be a test of that character that he shouldn't need but he's got great character." Lampard is still seeking his first win since taking charge of the club he won 13 trophies with as a player after losing his opening Premier League match 4-0 at Manchester United last weekend. Facing a refreshed United and relentless Liverpool was a baptism of fire for the former England international, but he wants the perfect homecoming when Leicester travel to Stamford Bridge for his first home game as Chelsea boss. "We want to win at home, it's a big game for us in front of our home fans for the first time this season," he said.

Frank Lampard lambasts racist abuse of Abraham

Major takeaways from opening weekend of English Premier League

Champions Manchester City delivered an emphatic statement of intent with a 5-0 thrashing of West Ham United as they began their bid for a hat-trick of Premier League title on Saturday.

Raheem Sterling's hat-trick fired City to a crushing victory as they more than matched title rivals Liverpool's 4-1 hammering of Norwich City on Friday.

Tottenham Hotspur, the only side to keep pace with City and Liverpool last season before falling away and finishing a distant fourth, began their campaign with a 3-1 home victory over Aston Villa -- Harry Kane scoring two late goals.

There were also impressive wins for Burnley and Brighton &amp; Hove Albion on the opening Saturday of the season while Sheffield United marked their return to the Premier League by picking up a point at Bournemouth.

Champions League winners Liverpool, who finished one point behind City in an epic title race last season, lit the touchpaper at Anfield but Pep Guardiola's City, as they seemingly always manage to do, stole the limelight.

Brazilian Gabriel Jesus, preferred to Sergio Aguero in attack, opened the scoring in the 25th minute and Sterling made it 2-0 six minutes after the interval with a cool finish after being put through by Kevin De Bruyne.

Jesus became the first player to have a goal disallowed by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in the Premier League when, in the 53rd minute, he finished off Sterling's pass following a fine move. However, the VAR adjudged Sterling had been offside.

VAR, making its Premier League debut this season, was used again to review and validate Sterling's second and the video staff were busy again in the 84th minute when Aguero's soft penalty was saved but VAR ruled that Declan Rice was encroaching into the box and referee Mike Dean ordered a re-take.

The Argentine scored before Sterling completed his hat-trick in stoppage time -- the first player to do so on the opening weekend of the Premier League since Didier Drogba in 2010.

City have now won 15 Premier League games in a row.

"I cannot deny it, I'm delighted to win 5-0 away from home in the first game," said Guardiola, who felt his side had been sloppy in the first half at the London Stadium.

"The rhythm was not there but that's normal for the first game. In the second half we were better, we were more calm, we played extra passes. After we went 3-0 up the game was over."

Home start

Tottenham were playing at home on the opening weekend for the first time in eight seasons but Villa, back in the top flight after a three-season absence, led through John McGinn's ninth-minute strike and hung on grimly.

Debutant Tanguy Ndombele, Tottenham's record signing, struck a 73rd minute equalise though and Kane punished a tiring Villa side with two clinical strikes.

That condemned Villa captain Jack Grealish to his 19th Premier League defeat in a row, the longest losing run of any player in the competition's history.

Brighton made an excellent start under new boss Graham Potter with a surprise 3-0 win at Watford -- thanks to an own goal from Abdoulaye Doucoure and second-half strikes by forwards Florin Andone and Neal Maupay.

Ashley Barnes struck twice as Sean Dyche's Burnley beat Southampton 3-0 in a meeting of two of last season's strugglers at a wet and windswept Turf Moor.

Icelandic winger Johann Berg Gudmundsson added the third on a disappointing day for Ralph Hasenhuttl's side.

Local boy Billy Sharp came off the bench for Sheffield United to earn a share of the spoils in their first Premier League game since 2007 as they drew 1-1 t Bournemouth. Defender Chris Mepham had put the Cherries ahead in the 62nd minute.

Everton's investments have raised hopes of a top-six challenge but they had to settle for a point at Crystal Palace after missing a series of chances in a 0-0 draw.

Manchester United host Chelsea in Sunday's big game with Arsenal at Newcastle United.

Champions Manchester City delivered an emphatic statement of intent with a 5-0 thrashing of West Ham United as they began their bid for a hat-trick of Premier League title on Saturday.

Champions Manchester City delivered an emphatic statement of intent with a 5-0 thrashing of West Ham United as they began their bid for a hat-trick of Premier League title on Saturday. Raheem Sterling's hat-trick fired City to a crushing victory as they more than matched title rivals Liverpool's 4-1 hammering of Norwich City on Friday. Tottenham Hotspur, the only side to keep pace with City and Liverpool last season before falling away and finishing a distant fourth, began their campaign with a 3-1 home victory over Aston Villa -- Harry Kane scoring two late goals. There were also impressive wins for Burnley and Brighton & Hove Albion on the opening Saturday of the season while Sheffield United marked their return to the Premier League by picking up a point at Bournemouth. Champions League winners Liverpool, who finished one point behind City in an epic title race last season, lit the touchpaper at Anfield but Pep Guardiola's City, as they seemingly always manage to do, stole the limelight. Brazilian Gabriel Jesus, preferred to Sergio Aguero in attack, opened the scoring in the 25th minute and Sterling made it 2-0 six minutes after the interval with a cool finish after being put through by Kevin De Bruyne. Jesus became the first player to have a goal disallowed by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in the Premier League when, in the 53rd minute, he finished off Sterling's pass following a fine move. However, the VAR adjudged Sterling had been offside. VAR, making its Premier League debut this season, was used again to review and validate Sterling's second and the video staff were busy again in the 84th minute when Aguero's soft penalty was saved but VAR ruled that Declan Rice was encroaching into the box and referee Mike Dean ordered a re-take. The Argentine scored before Sterling completed his hat-trick in stoppage time -- the first player to do so on the opening weekend of the Premier League since Didier Drogba in 2010. City have now won 15 Premier League games in a row. "I cannot deny it, I'm delighted to win 5-0 away from home in the first game," said Guardiola, who felt his side had been sloppy in the first half at the London Stadium. "The rhythm was not there but that's normal for the first game. In the second half we were better, we were more calm, we played extra passes. After we went 3-0 up the game was over." Home start Tottenham were playing at home on the opening weekend for the first time in eight seasons but Villa, back in the top flight after a three-season absence, led through John McGinn's ninth-minute strike and hung on grimly. Debutant Tanguy Ndombele, Tottenham's record signing, struck a 73rd minute equalise though and Kane punished a tiring Villa side with two clinical strikes. That condemned Villa captain Jack Grealish to his 19th Premier League defeat in a row, the longest losing run of any player in the competition's history. Brighton made an excellent start under new boss Graham Potter with a surprise 3-0 win at Watford -- thanks to an own goal from Abdoulaye Doucoure and second-half strikes by forwards Florin Andone and Neal Maupay. Ashley Barnes struck twice as Sean Dyche's Burnley beat Southampton 3-0 in a meeting of two of last season's strugglers at a wet and windswept Turf Moor. Icelandic winger Johann Berg Gudmundsson added the third on a disappointing day for Ralph Hasenhuttl's side. Local boy Billy Sharp came off the bench for Sheffield United to earn a share of the spoils in their first Premier League game since 2007 as they drew 1-1 t Bournemouth. Defender Chris Mepham had put the Cherries ahead in the 62nd minute. Everton's investments have raised hopes of a top-six challenge but they had to settle for a point at Crystal Palace after missing a series of chances in a 0-0 draw. Manchester United host Chelsea in Sunday's big game with Arsenal at Newcastle United.

Five-star City make statement, Kane seals late Spurs win

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United made the perfect start to their Premier League season by inflicting a 4-0 defeat on Frank Lampard in his first match in charge of Chelsea on Sunday.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men were in need of a fast start to the campaign to erase memories of a terrible end to last season and got it, as Rashford's early penalty and three goals in 16 second-half minutes from Anthony Martial, Rashford and debutant Daniel James had Old Trafford in raptures.

Harry Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka also impressed at the back on their debuts after United spent £130 million ($156 million) on the pair over the summer to shore up a defence that conceded 54 Premier League goals last season.

However, questions will be asked of Chelsea's decision to let experienced defender David Luiz leave to join Arsenal earlier this week as the Blues struggled to contain the United counter-attacks despite dominating long spells.

Lampard's first team selection was a bold one as he put his faith in youth with Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount handed starts, while £60 million signing Christian Pulisic was made to wait for his Premier League debut on the bench.

And Chelsea started the better as Abraham smashed a shot from the edge of the box off the post.

However, the heart of the Chelsea defence always looked fragile.

Kurt Zouma had already gotten away with gifting possession to Martial on the edge of his own box as the Frenchman shot weakly into the arms of Kepa Arrizabalaga before he was turned easily by Rashford and hauled the England striker to the ground.

Pogba the provider

Rashford dusted himself off to blast the penalty high past Kepa to open the scoring and United fed off the momentum of the goal for a spell.

Yet, Chelsea steadied themselves as the first half wore on and should have at least been level by the break.

David de Gea was forced into a fine save with his feet to deny Ross Barkley before left-back Emerson Palmieri also blasted off the inside of the post.&nbsp;

De Gea was at fault with a series of high-profile errors towards the end of last season, but the Spaniard -- &nbsp;handed the captain's armband in the absence of Ashley Young -- looked back to his old self as he beat away another two powerful drives from Emerson after the break.

And at the other end, Rashford and Martial provided the clinical touch to kill the game off in the space of 60 seconds that Chelsea lacked.

Maguire showed his presence to outmuscle Abraham on the edge of the United box and set off a flowing counter-attack that ended with Martial bundling the ball home at the far post from Andreas Pereira's cross.

Paul Pogba then played provider with a brilliant ball over the top for Rashford to burst in behind before coolly slotting past Kepa.

Pogba was the creator again for the fourth as the Frenchman played a one-two with Rashford and powered through the Chelsea defence before laying off to James, who got the benefit of a big deflection to find the bottom corner.

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United made the perfect start to their Premier League season by inflicting a 4-0 defeat on Frank Lampard in his first match in charge of Chelsea on Sunday.

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United made the perfect start to their Premier League season by inflicting a 4-0 defeat on Frank Lampard in his first match in charge of Chelsea on Sunday. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men were in need of a fast start to the campaign to erase memories of a terrible end to last season and got it, as Rashford's early penalty and three goals in 16 second-half minutes from Anthony Martial, Rashford and debutant Daniel James had Old Trafford in raptures. Harry Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka also impressed at the back on their debuts after United spent £130 million ($156 million) on the pair over the summer to shore up a defence that conceded 54 Premier League goals last season. However, questions will be asked of Chelsea's decision to let experienced defender David Luiz leave to join Arsenal earlier this week as the Blues struggled to contain the United counter-attacks despite dominating long spells. Lampard's first team selection was a bold one as he put his faith in youth with Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount handed starts, while £60 million signing Christian Pulisic was made to wait for his Premier League debut on the bench. And Chelsea started the better as Abraham smashed a shot from the edge of the box off the post. However, the heart of the Chelsea defence always looked fragile. Kurt Zouma had already gotten away with gifting possession to Martial on the edge of his own box as the Frenchman shot weakly into the arms of Kepa Arrizabalaga before he was turned easily by Rashford and hauled the England striker to the ground. Pogba the provider Rashford dusted himself off to blast the penalty high past Kepa to open the scoring and United fed off the momentum of the goal for a spell. Yet, Chelsea steadied themselves as the first half wore on and should have at least been level by the break. David de Gea was forced into a fine save with his feet to deny Ross Barkley before left-back Emerson Palmieri also blasted off the inside of the post. De Gea was at fault with a series of high-profile errors towards the end of last season, but the Spaniard -- handed the captain's armband in the absence of Ashley Young -- looked back to his old self as he beat away another two powerful drives from Emerson after the break. And at the other end, Rashford and Martial provided the clinical touch to kill the game off in the space of 60 seconds that Chelsea lacked. Maguire showed his presence to outmuscle Abraham on the edge of the United box and set off a flowing counter-attack that ended with Martial bundling the ball home at the far post from Andreas Pereira's cross. Paul Pogba then played provider with a brilliant ball over the top for Rashford to burst in behind before coolly slotting past Kepa. Pogba was the creator again for the fourth as the Frenchman played a one-two with Rashford and powered through the Chelsea defence before laying off to James, who got the benefit of a big deflection to find the bottom corner.

Manchester United inflict 4-0 thrashing on Lampard's Chelsea

How the Premier League top six fared in the transfer window

Arsenal could bolster their defence significantly in the final 24 hours before the Premier League transfer window closes on Thursday with the signings of Kieran Tierney and David Luiz, according to reports.

Arsenal could bolster their defence significantly in the final 24 hours before the Premier League transfer window closes on Thursday with the signings of Kieran Tierney and David Luiz, according to reports. Scottish left-back Tierney has been a target all summer for the Gunners, who have had two bids previously rejected by Celtic. However, Tierney, who sat out Celtic's 1-1 draw with CFR Cluj in Romania on Wednesday as he recovers from a hernia operation, is set to travel to London after the clubs finally agreed on the payment structure of a £25 million move according to widespread reports. "I've said the last few days it wouldn't surprise me," Celtic boss Neil Lennon told the BBC on the possibility of losing Tierney. "If he goes, he goes with everyone's best wishes. He's an outstanding talent and a great kid." Arsenal's long search for centre-back cover could also be resolved on Thursday should Luiz move across London from Chelsea. The 32-year-old did not train with the rest of his Chelsea teammates on Wednesday. "If we can on the last day, we will try to sign another centre-back, but one who has the capacity to help us," said Arsenal coach Unai Emery. Arsenal conceded 51 goals in the Premier League last season to miss out on Champions League football for a third consecutive season.

Arsenal agree deal for Tierney, closing in on Luiz

Young hopefuls at Premier League giants Chelsea were abused for years by a "prolific and manipulative" coach as staff at the club "turned a blind eye", an independent report said Tuesday.

The report, led by lawyer Charles Geekie, found that the club's former chief scout Eddie Heath, who died in 1983, was able to operate "unchallenged", abusing boys aged between 10 and 17 in the 1970s.

Victims recalled that Heath used "sexual innuendo" in the changing room, but made sure "that his most serious sexual assaults took place in private," it added.

Heath's behaviour was an open secret among players and staff.

"The boys all knew it was safety in numbers, you didn't want to be the last in the van, you risked being groped by him or having your bum slapped. He was regarded as 'Nightmare Eddie'," one witness said.

Chelsea said in a statement that "Heath was a dangerous and prolific child abuser" whose conduct was "beyond reprehensible".

"Although the club today is a very different place from the club then... we will not shy away from responsibility for what happened in the past," it added.

Claims for compensation are being assessed by insurers for the former European champions.

'Manipulative risk-taker'

Heath was sacked when England World Cup-winning hero Geoff Hurst took over the club in 1979. But the former striker, now aged 77, denied knowing about Heath's behaviour and turned down requests to be interviewed for the report.

Geekie talked to 23 witnesses who claim that they were targeted by Heath, saying they painted a picture of an "audacious, manipulative risk-taker".

One witness said staff and players "must have known or been suspicious of what he was doing... but turned a blind eye to it."

One former player described how Heath would come into the urinals and watch, while another said he peered over the shower cubicle while he was inside.

Heath would lavish praise on his "favourites", inviting them around to his house to watch football matches, offering out money and sweets and befriending their parents.

Many said they were fearful of telling the authorities and getting Heath into trouble, while others "wanted to impress him" to ensure they kept being picked.

One former player said the abuse had had a "massive impact on me and my family".

Veteran manager Dario Gradi, who worked at Chelsea at the time, also came in for criticism, with the report finding he failed to report Heath despite receiving a complaint that he had indecently assaulted a boy in the showers.

Ex-Chelsea football star Alan Hudson said it was "common knowledge" that Heath was a paedophile.

"It was common knowledge that Eddie Heath was a 'nonce' (slang for paedophile)," Hudson wrote on Facebook when the allegations first surfaced.

Players from other London clubs he worked for, Leyton Orient and Charlton, also came forward about his predatory behaviour.

Young hopefuls at Premier League giants Chelsea were abused for years by a "prolific and manipulative" coach as staff at the club "turned a blind eye", an independent report said Tuesday.

Young hopefuls at Premier League giants Chelsea were abused for years by a "prolific and manipulative" coach as staff at the club "turned a blind eye", an independent report said Tuesday. The report, led by lawyer Charles Geekie, found that the club's former chief scout Eddie Heath, who died in 1983, was able to operate "unchallenged", abusing boys aged between 10 and 17 in the 1970s. Victims recalled that Heath used "sexual innuendo" in the changing room, but made sure "that his most serious sexual assaults took place in private," it added. Heath's behaviour was an open secret among players and staff. "The boys all knew it was safety in numbers, you didn't want to be the last in the van, you risked being groped by him or having your bum slapped. He was regarded as 'Nightmare Eddie'," one witness said. Chelsea said in a statement that "Heath was a dangerous and prolific child abuser" whose conduct was "beyond reprehensible". "Although the club today is a very different place from the club then... we will not shy away from responsibility for what happened in the past," it added. Claims for compensation are being assessed by insurers for the former European champions. 'Manipulative risk-taker' Heath was sacked when England World Cup-winning hero Geoff Hurst took over the club in 1979. But the former striker, now aged 77, denied knowing about Heath's behaviour and turned down requests to be interviewed for the report. Geekie talked to 23 witnesses who claim that they were targeted by Heath, saying they painted a picture of an "audacious, manipulative risk-taker". One witness said staff and players "must have known or been suspicious of what he was doing... but turned a blind eye to it." One former player described how Heath would come into the urinals and watch, while another said he peered over the shower cubicle while he was inside. Heath would lavish praise on his "favourites", inviting them around to his house to watch football matches, offering out money and sweets and befriending their parents. Many said they were fearful of telling the authorities and getting Heath into trouble, while others "wanted to impress him" to ensure they kept being picked. One former player said the abuse had had a "massive impact on me and my family". Veteran manager Dario Gradi, who worked at Chelsea at the time, also came in for criticism, with the report finding he failed to report Heath despite receiving a complaint that he had indecently assaulted a boy in the showers. Ex-Chelsea football star Alan Hudson said it was "common knowledge" that Heath was a paedophile. "It was common knowledge that Eddie Heath was a 'nonce' (slang for paedophile)," Hudson wrote on Facebook when the allegations first surfaced. Players from other London clubs he worked for, Leyton Orient and Charlton, also came forward about his predatory behaviour.

Chelsea staff 'turned blind eye' to sexual abuse

The English Football Association has increased its mandatory minimum ban for first-time offenders found guilty of discriminatory behaviour to six matches from five ahead of the 2019-2020 season.

The move follows an annual report from British anti discriminatory body Kick It Out that showed a 43 percent rise in reports of racist abuse in English football last season.

Chelsea banned a supporter for life last week for racially abusing winger Raheem Sterling during last season's Premier League home match against Manchester City.

World soccer governing body FIFA doubled its minimum ban for racism to 10 games last month as soccer's authorities attempt to clamp down after a number of high profile incidents in domestic and international football.

The FA's six-game ban can be increased "depending on any additional aggravating factors" and it is also in talks with various stakeholders about how best to combat discrimination on and off the pitch.

"As part of this, The FA is reviewing what the minimum match-based suspension for proven cases of discrimination should be to ensure the deterrent in place is appropriate and effective," the FA said in a statement.

The FA also revealed it had given match officials the authority to show managers and backroom staff yellow and red cards, representing cautions and dismissals, respectively.

Any member of a team's technical staff who accumulates four yellow cards during the season will receive an automatic one game touchline ban, while eight yellows will earn the offender a two match suspension.

An individual who accrues 16 yellows during the season will be charged with misconduct and have to face an independent regulatory commission.

The English Football Association has increased its mandatory minimum ban for first-time offenders found guilty of discriminatory behaviour to six matches from five ahead of the 2019-2020 season.

The English Football Association has increased its mandatory minimum ban for first-time offenders found guilty of discriminatory behaviour to six matches from five ahead of the 2019-2020 season. The move follows an annual report from British anti discriminatory body Kick It Out that showed a 43 percent rise in reports of racist abuse in English football last season. Chelsea banned a supporter for life last week for racially abusing winger Raheem Sterling during last season's Premier League home match against Manchester City. World soccer governing body FIFA doubled its minimum ban for racism to 10 games last month as soccer's authorities attempt to clamp down after a number of high profile incidents in domestic and international football. The FA's six-game ban can be increased "depending on any additional aggravating factors" and it is also in talks with various stakeholders about how best to combat discrimination on and off the pitch. "As part of this, The FA is reviewing what the minimum match-based suspension for proven cases of discrimination should be to ensure the deterrent in place is appropriate and effective," the FA said in a statement. The FA also revealed it had given match officials the authority to show managers and backroom staff yellow and red cards, representing cautions and dismissals, respectively. Any member of a team's technical staff who accumulates four yellow cards during the season will receive an automatic one game touchline ban, while eight yellows will earn the offender a two match suspension. An individual who accrues 16 yellows during the season will be charged with misconduct and have to face an independent regulatory commission.

FA increases minimum ban for racist abuse to six matches

Tammy Abraham and Ross Barkley scored as the English Premier League club Chelsea defeated Barcelona 2-1 in a pre-season friendly in Saitama, Japan on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Barcelona's £107-million star signing Antoine Griezmann made his first start for the Spanish champions while for Chelsea, Mason and Christian Pulisic started for the team.&nbsp;

Abraham&nbsp;capitalised an early Pedro shot by pouncing on a mistake by Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets who attempted to clear the ball and scored the classy opener in the 34th minute. Substitute Barkley stretched the lead to 2-0 by scoring in the 81st minute.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Barcelona were offensive in the second half but superb saves by Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga repeatedly denied Barca any attempt to equalise.&nbsp;

Barcelona got a free-kick just outside the box but midfielder Ivan Rakitic's shot went above the bar.

Rakitic however quickly redeemed himself in injury time, picking up a cross and firing a lightning right-footer that went deep into the net for a consolation goal for Barcelona.

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Full-time: Chelsea 2-1 Barcelona! 💪 
 
Goals from <a href="https://twitter.com/tammyabraham?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tammyabraham</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/RBarkley8?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RBarkley8</a> secure the win in our final game in Japan! 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFCinJapan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CFCinJapan</a> <a href="https://t.co/BD0JdfmUPs">pic.twitter.com/BD0JdfmUPs</a>
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1153642026245615616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Chelsea had started their tour with 1-0 loss to Kawasaki Frontale and Barcelona will play J League team Vissel Kobe on Saturday.&nbsp;

Barcelona will start their La Liga campaign against Athletic Club Bilbao on Saturday, 17th August and Chelsea will start their Premier League season with a mouth-watering clash against Manchester United on August 10.&nbsp;

Tammy Abraham and Ross Barkley scored as the English Premier League club Chelsea defeated Barcelona 2-1 in a pre-season friendly in Saitama, Japan on Tuesday. Barcelona's £107-million star signing Antoine Griezmann made his first start for the Spanish champions while for Chelsea, Mason and Christian Pulisic started for the team.

Tammy Abraham and Ross Barkley scored as the English Premier League club Chelsea defeated Barcelona 2-1 in a pre-season friendly in Saitama, Japan on Tuesday. Barcelona's £107-million star signing Antoine Griezmann made his first start for the Spanish champions while for Chelsea, Mason and Christian Pulisic started for the team. Abraham capitalised an early Pedro shot by pouncing on a mistake by Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets who attempted to clear the ball and scored the classy opener in the 34th minute. Substitute Barkley stretched the lead to 2-0 by scoring in the 81st minute. Barcelona were offensive in the second half but superb saves by Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga repeatedly denied Barca any attempt to equalise. Barcelona got a free-kick just outside the box but midfielder Ivan Rakitic's shot went above the bar. Rakitic however quickly redeemed himself in injury time, picking up a cross and firing a lightning right-footer that went deep into the net for a consolation goal for Barcelona. Full-time: Chelsea 2-1 Barcelona! 💪 Goals from @tammyabraham and @RBarkley8 secure the win in our final game in Japan! 👏#CFCinJapan pic.twitter.com/BD0JdfmUPs — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 23, 2019 × Chelsea had started their tour with 1-0 loss to Kawasaki Frontale and Barcelona will play J League team Vissel Kobe on Saturday. Barcelona will start their La Liga campaign against Athletic Club Bilbao on Saturday, 17th August and Chelsea will start their Premier League season with a mouth-watering clash against Manchester United on August 10.

Chelsea beat Barcelona 2-1 in a pre-season friendly

Barcelona's Ivan Rakitic said to play&nbsp;against former Barca captain Andres Iniesta will be "little weird" as the Spanish giants are set to face Vissel Kobe of J&nbsp;League in a pre-season friendly.&nbsp;

"It will be very special to play against them, even a little weird because until recently they have been part of the team and now we will have to face them and both parts, we'll have enjoy the game," said Rakitic while addressing the media. &nbsp;

"Playing against Andres, especially, it will be weird for me because he is one of the best friends I have in football and now having to play against him, apart from all the quality he has and being friends, will be very special and hopefully I'll be able to enjoy a very special moment with him," he added.&nbsp;

On Monday, Barcelona trained ahead of their pre-season friendly against the Premier League club Chelsea in the Rakuten Cup.&nbsp;

After Chelsea, Barcelona will face&nbsp;Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper of Vissel Kobe on Saturday (27th July).&nbsp;

Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic accepts his days at the Nou Camp may be numbered, but for now he is concentrating on preparing for next season with the Spanish champions but said the rumours do not bother him.&nbsp;

After the arrival of Frenkie de Jong from Ajax and 31-year-old Sergio Busquets signing a new five-year deal last year, Barcelona’s midfield is looking a little crowded and the Croat could be the man shipped out this summer.&nbsp;

“Does it bother me? No it doesn’t, I have to understand soccer in general works like that,” Rakitic said at a news conference in Tokyo when asked about any impending move.

Barcelona will start their La Liga campaign against Athletic Club Bilbao on Saturday, 17th August.&nbsp;

Barcelona's Ivan Rakitic said to play against former Barca captain Andres Iniesta will be "little weird" as the Spanish giants are set to face Vissel Kobe of J League in a pre-season friendly.

Barcelona's Ivan Rakitic said to play against former Barca captain Andres Iniesta will be "little weird" as the Spanish giants are set to face Vissel Kobe of J League in a pre-season friendly. "It will be very special to play against them, even a little weird because until recently they have been part of the team and now we will have to face them and both parts, we'll have enjoy the game," said Rakitic while addressing the media. "Playing against Andres, especially, it will be weird for me because he is one of the best friends I have in football and now having to play against him, apart from all the quality he has and being friends, will be very special and hopefully I'll be able to enjoy a very special moment with him," he added. On Monday, Barcelona trained ahead of their pre-season friendly against the Premier League club Chelsea in the Rakuten Cup. After Chelsea, Barcelona will face Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Sergi Samper of Vissel Kobe on Saturday (27th July). Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic accepts his days at the Nou Camp may be numbered, but for now he is concentrating on preparing for next season with the Spanish champions but said the rumours do not bother him. After the arrival of Frenkie de Jong from Ajax and 31-year-old Sergio Busquets signing a new five-year deal last year, Barcelona’s midfield is looking a little crowded and the Croat could be the man shipped out this summer. “Does it bother me? No it doesn’t, I have to understand soccer in general works like that,” Rakitic said at a news conference in Tokyo when asked about any impending move. Barcelona will start their La Liga campaign against Athletic Club Bilbao on Saturday, 17th August.

'It will be weird to play against Andres Iniesta,' says Ivan Rakitic

Chelsea's new manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/frank-lampard-appointed-as-chelsea-head-coach-on-three-year-deal-232973">Frank Lampard</a> hopes that he will bring success to the club, which is serving&nbsp;a transfer ban and are unable to add new players to their squad.&nbsp;

Amid the crisis, Lampard has been tasked with improving the players he inherited from predecessor Maurizio Sarri and promoting young players from the club's academy.&nbsp;

"I know the people that I'm working with all have the same desires from Bruce (Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck) and the people at the top of the club right the way through to the players who have been working now very hard for the last two weeks, 10 days or two weeks. So, I hope that I can bring success to the club," said Lampard during a media interaction.&nbsp;

As a player, Lampard has spent 13 years with Chelsea winning three Premier League titles and the Champions League. He said that the club is very close to his heart.&nbsp;

"In terms of my feelings to be managing Chelsea, it's obviously 'my club' having spent 13 years,"&nbsp;

"It's a club it's very, very close to my heart. So I couldn't be happier to have the opportunity to work for that club to try and bring success," he added.&nbsp;

Lampard, who made 648 appearances for Chelsea and scored a club record 211 goals, managed Derby County last season and led them to the Championship (second-tier) playoff final.&nbsp;

Chelsea's new manager Frank Lampard hopes that he will bring success to the club, which is serving a transfer ban and are unable to add new players to their squad.

Chelsea's new manager Frank Lampard hopes that he will bring success to the club, which is serving a transfer ban and are unable to add new players to their squad. Amid the crisis, Lampard has been tasked with improving the players he inherited from predecessor Maurizio Sarri and promoting young players from the club's academy. "I know the people that I'm working with all have the same desires from Bruce (Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck) and the people at the top of the club right the way through to the players who have been working now very hard for the last two weeks, 10 days or two weeks. So, I hope that I can bring success to the club," said Lampard during a media interaction. As a player, Lampard has spent 13 years with Chelsea winning three Premier League titles and the Champions League. He said that the club is very close to his heart. "In terms of my feelings to be managing Chelsea, it's obviously 'my club' having spent 13 years," "It's a club it's very, very close to my heart. So I couldn't be happier to have the opportunity to work for that club to try and bring success," he added. Lampard, who made 648 appearances for Chelsea and scored a club record 211 goals, managed Derby County last season and led them to the Championship (second-tier) playoff final.

'Hope I can bring success to the club,' says Chelsea boss Frank Lampard

J-League Champions Kawasaki Frontale pulled off a stunning 1-0 victory against Chelsea in friendly at Yokohama on Friday.

Kawasaki striker Leandro Damiao headed in a Kengo Nakamura cross from a close range in the 86th minute to clinch the upset.

Chelsea struggled to find the net despite waves of attacks, with Kawasaki players cautious in defence, particularly before the break.

In the 30th minute, Chelsea forward Pedro showed off his skill by zigzagging past a group of Kawasaki defenders before unleashing a long-range shot, which flew just over the bar.

Four minutes later, a similar attempt by his teammate Kenedy also went wide.

Kawasaki midfielder Akihiro Ienaga, J-League MVP in 2018, threatened the Chelsea goal in a 45th-minute counterattack, ending the move with a sizzling shot which forced a superb one-armed save by goalkeeper Willy Caballero.

After the break, Kawasaki's Leandro Damiao dashed to meet a Kei Chinen cross, but his diving header inside the box went wide.

Kenedy rushed to meet a Ross Barkley pass inside the box in the 69th minute, but was blocked by Kawasaki goalkeeper Shota Arai.

Arai had to make another strong save a few minutes later from an Olivier Giroud freekick.

Chelsea are on a pre-season tour of Japan, and will play a friendly against FC Barcelona on Tuesday in Saitama, north of Tokyo.

J-League Champions Kawasaki Frontale pulled off a stunning 1-0 victory against Chelsea in friendly at Yokohama on Friday. Kawasaki striker Leandro Damiao headed in a Kengo Nakamura cross from a close range in the 86th minute to clinch the upset.

J-League Champions Kawasaki Frontale pulled off a stunning 1-0 victory against Chelsea in friendly at Yokohama on Friday. Kawasaki striker Leandro Damiao headed in a Kengo Nakamura cross from a close range in the 86th minute to clinch the upset. Chelsea struggled to find the net despite waves of attacks, with Kawasaki players cautious in defence, particularly before the break. In the 30th minute, Chelsea forward Pedro showed off his skill by zigzagging past a group of Kawasaki defenders before unleashing a long-range shot, which flew just over the bar. Four minutes later, a similar attempt by his teammate Kenedy also went wide. Kawasaki midfielder Akihiro Ienaga, J-League MVP in 2018, threatened the Chelsea goal in a 45th-minute counterattack, ending the move with a sizzling shot which forced a superb one-armed save by goalkeeper Willy Caballero. After the break, Kawasaki's Leandro Damiao dashed to meet a Kei Chinen cross, but his diving header inside the box went wide. Kenedy rushed to meet a Ross Barkley pass inside the box in the 69th minute, but was blocked by Kawasaki goalkeeper Shota Arai. Arai had to make another strong save a few minutes later from an Olivier Giroud freekick. Chelsea are on a pre-season tour of Japan, and will play a friendly against FC Barcelona on Tuesday in Saitama, north of Tokyo.

J-League's Kawasaki Frontale defeat Chelsea 1-0

Chelsea are facing a transfer ban but new manager <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/frank-lampard-begins-chelsea-charge-with-draw-against-bohemians-234872&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQ_pGixrnjAhVs8XMBHfp6DzAQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3OvAuxsCTOwPn7ekb3ujJ_">Frank Lampard</a> is confident the Premier League club do not need to bring in new players to taste success.

Lampard, who is the club's record goalscorer from his time as a player, was appointed Chelsea's new manager this month.

With Chelsea unable to add new players to their squad following a FIFA ban, Lampard has been tasked with improving the players he inherited from predecessor Mauricio Sarri and promoting young players from the club's academy.

Speaking shortly after arriving in Yokohama on Tuesday for the Japan leg of the club's pre-season tour, Lampard said he was impressed with the attitude of his new charges.

"I think I have inherited very good players," Lampard said ahead of Chelsea's pre-season friendly against Japanese champions Kawasaki Frontale on Friday.

"We can't bring in any new players, we know that this year. But I don't need new players. I am very happy with the squad and determined for us to be successful.''

"I have my own way that I want to work with the players and I have to say, in the one week we have been training, I have been very happy with the attitude and the qualities of the players," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/leeds-vs-derby-frank-lampards-post-win-celebration-bill-goes-viral-219483&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiQ_pGixrnjAhVs8XMBHfp6DzAQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw33ZJwIsQ01Uuf3xIkwDOMz">Lampard </a>said.

Friday's clash with Kawasaki will be the third game of Lampard's tenure, with Chelsea having secured a win and a draw during two pre-season matches in Ireland last week.

Lampard will be assisted at Stamford Bridge by former academy coach Jody Morris and the pair are expected to utilise many of the players who have flourished in Chelsea's youth teams and are on loan to other clubs.

Lampard worked with midfielder Mason Mount while he was on loan at Derby County last season and the 20-year-old signed a new five-year contract on Monday.

Mount, along with striker Tammy Abraham and midfielders Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Callum Hudson-Odoi, have Chelsea fans salivating at the prospect of a young, English core prospering under Lampard.

However, Lampard, who made 648 appearances for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/chelse-lift-the-europa-league-cup-as-hazard-scores-twice-as-parting-gift-222736&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwii_bm2xrnjAhXl4XMBHbCHDEIQFjABegQIAxAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw2_K81K6_IGDbXUkHoRYZrd">Chelsea </a>and scored a club record 211 goals between 2001-2014, warned his young players that the hard work has just started.

"Now we have a batch of them that are fighting to get into the first team," Lampard said of his young players.

"But, to be clear, they now have to make the difference. It is a road, a pathway, that is given to them and now they have to be the ones that play well enough to get into the team.

"I don't care about age, I just care about performance and how people train and play. Now it is up to those young players to show what they can do," said Lampard.

Lampard will also rely on World Cup-winning French midfielder N'Golo Kante to bring energy and experience to his <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-appoint-former-goalkeeper-petr-cech-as-technical-advisor-229235&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwii_bm2xrnjAhXl4XMBHbCHDEIQFjAFegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2UXb2jbjslWXcEMHB6F2AK">Chelsea </a>side.

Kante picked up an injury towards the end of last season but Lampard was confident the 28-year-old will be fit for Chelsea's league opener against Manchester United on August&nbsp;11.

Chelsea are facing a transfer ban but new manager Frank Lampard is confident the Premier League club do not need to bring in new players to taste success. Lampard, who is the club's record goalscorer from his time as a player, was appointed Chelsea's new manager this month.

Chelsea are facing a transfer ban but new manager Frank Lampard is confident the Premier League club do not need to bring in new players to taste success. Lampard, who is the club's record goalscorer from his time as a player, was appointed Chelsea's new manager this month. With Chelsea unable to add new players to their squad following a FIFA ban, Lampard has been tasked with improving the players he inherited from predecessor Mauricio Sarri and promoting young players from the club's academy. Speaking shortly after arriving in Yokohama on Tuesday for the Japan leg of the club's pre-season tour, Lampard said he was impressed with the attitude of his new charges. "I think I have inherited very good players," Lampard said ahead of Chelsea's pre-season friendly against Japanese champions Kawasaki Frontale on Friday. "We can't bring in any new players, we know that this year. But I don't need new players. I am very happy with the squad and determined for us to be successful.'' "I have my own way that I want to work with the players and I have to say, in the one week we have been training, I have been very happy with the attitude and the qualities of the players," Lampard said. Friday's clash with Kawasaki will be the third game of Lampard's tenure, with Chelsea having secured a win and a draw during two pre-season matches in Ireland last week. Lampard will be assisted at Stamford Bridge by former academy coach Jody Morris and the pair are expected to utilise many of the players who have flourished in Chelsea's youth teams and are on loan to other clubs. Lampard worked with midfielder Mason Mount while he was on loan at Derby County last season and the 20-year-old signed a new five-year contract on Monday. Mount, along with striker Tammy Abraham and midfielders Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Callum Hudson-Odoi, have Chelsea fans salivating at the prospect of a young, English core prospering under Lampard. However, Lampard, who made 648 appearances for Chelsea and scored a club record 211 goals between 2001-2014, warned his young players that the hard work has just started. "Now we have a batch of them that are fighting to get into the first team," Lampard said of his young players. "But, to be clear, they now have to make the difference. It is a road, a pathway, that is given to them and now they have to be the ones that play well enough to get into the team. "I don't care about age, I just care about performance and how people train and play. Now it is up to those young players to show what they can do," said Lampard. Lampard will also rely on World Cup-winning French midfielder N'Golo Kante to bring energy and experience to his Chelsea side. Kante picked up an injury towards the end of last season but Lampard was confident the 28-year-old will be fit for Chelsea's league opener against Manchester United on August 11.

Chelsea do not need new players to be successful: Frank Lampard

New Chelsea manager <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/frank-lampard-appointed-as-chelsea-head-coach-on-three-year-deal-232973&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi5nM6Yn6zjAhVX6nMBHaYvAskQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2QJsJ5iaCPONPFdVVUqhPX">Frank Lampard</a> said he was pleased with the team's response to his "taxing" pre-season programme following a 1-1 draw at Irish side Bohemians in his first match in charge.

Striker Michy Batshuayi put Europa League winners Chelsea ahead in the eighth minute before trialist Eric Molloy levelled late on to snatch a draw at Dalymount Park in Dublin.

Lampard, who replaced Maurizio Sarri this month after a season in charge of Championship side Derby County, said the squad's fitness was his main priority ahead of the new season.

"I have a way of working that can be taxing on the players and we wanted to get straight into it ... I want to stretch them because that's what pre-season is all about," the 41-year-old told Chelsea's website.

"We have to because we want fitness and intensity in our game. I'm happy not just with how they've practically done things but with their attitude in taking everything on.''

"We haven't been back for long and this was our first game after just a few days so there was a bit of pressure on the lads to work ... we've been working them hard," said Lampard.

Lampard, who won three Premier League titles and the Champions League as a Chelsea player, said he was happy with the team's performance despite failing to get the victory.

"We wanted to win because you always do but it's not about that at this point," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/leeds-vs-derby-frank-lampards-post-win-celebration-bill-goes-viral-219483&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi5nM6Yn6zjAhVX6nMBHaYvAskQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0DJd8C6nUuovxXPSxwGU4W">Lampard </a>added.

"It's about individuals getting fit and pushing themselves to the limit," he said.

Chelsea kick off their league campaign against Manchester United at Old Trafford on August&nbsp;11.

New Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said he was pleased with the team's response to his "taxing" pre-season programme following a 1-1 draw at Irish side Bohemians in his first match in charge.

New Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said he was pleased with the team's response to his "taxing" pre-season programme following a 1-1 draw at Irish side Bohemians in his first match in charge. Striker Michy Batshuayi put Europa League winners Chelsea ahead in the eighth minute before trialist Eric Molloy levelled late on to snatch a draw at Dalymount Park in Dublin. Lampard, who replaced Maurizio Sarri this month after a season in charge of Championship side Derby County, said the squad's fitness was his main priority ahead of the new season. "I have a way of working that can be taxing on the players and we wanted to get straight into it ... I want to stretch them because that's what pre-season is all about," the 41-year-old told Chelsea's website. "We have to because we want fitness and intensity in our game. I'm happy not just with how they've practically done things but with their attitude in taking everything on.'' "We haven't been back for long and this was our first game after just a few days so there was a bit of pressure on the lads to work ... we've been working them hard," said Lampard. Lampard, who won three Premier League titles and the Champions League as a Chelsea player, said he was happy with the team's performance despite failing to get the victory. "We wanted to win because you always do but it's not about that at this point," Lampard added. "It's about individuals getting fit and pushing themselves to the limit," he said. Chelsea kick off their league campaign against Manchester United at Old Trafford on August 11.

Frank Lampard begins Chelsea charge with draw against Bohemians

Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata will join <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-madrid-accuse-barcelona-antoine-griezmann-for-showing-disrespect-233489&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjBgsSFpKDjAhXkjuYKHX8-DAgQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw247nCqPjlAPX0G5bEHbEFf">Atletico Madrid</a> on a permanent deal at the end of the 2019/20 season, the Premier League club announced on Saturday.

The 26-year-old is in the middle of a two-year loan spell with the La Liga side and will remain in the Spanish capital when it is completed.

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Thank you and good luck, <a href="https://twitter.com/AlvaroMorata?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AlvaroMorata</a>. 👊
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1147466429404463106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Spain international scored 24 goals in 72 appearances for the Blues after joining from Real Madrid in 2017.

Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata will join Atletico Madrid on a permanent deal at the end of the 2019/20 season, the Premier League club announced on Saturday. The 26-year-old is in the middle of a two-year loan spell with the La Liga side and will remain in the Spanish capital when it is completed.

Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata will join Atletico Madrid on a permanent deal at the end of the 2019/20 season, the Premier League club announced on Saturday. The 26-year-old is in the middle of a two-year loan spell with the La Liga side and will remain in the Spanish capital when it is completed. Thank you and good luck, @AlvaroMorata. 👊 — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 6, 2019 × The Spain international scored 24 goals in 72 appearances for the Blues after joining from Real Madrid in 2017.

Chelsea's Alvaro Morata to join Atletico Madrid at end of next season

Chelsea have appointed Frank Lampard as head coach on a three-year contract, the Premier League club announced on Thursday.

Lampard, a former Chelsea player who won three Premier League titles and the Champions League in a 13-year spell at Stamford Bridge, managed <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/derby-give-chelsea-nod-to-open-managerial-talks-with-frank-lampard-230383&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj2z-LP6prjAhUH5o8KHS3iD1cQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Kw9YSSzqcwKz1VkBXBrbG">Derby County</a> last season and led them to the Championship (second-tier) playoff final.

"I am immensely proud to be returning to Chelsea as head coach," Lampard said in a statement.

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Over to you, boss! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeHomeFrank?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeHomeFrank</a> <a href="https://t.co/vPGpCUSsMX">pic.twitter.com/vPGpCUSsMX</a>
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"Everyone knows my love for this club and the history we have shared, however, my sole focus is on the job in hand and preparing for the season ahead."

Lampard, adored by Chelsea fans as the heart and soul of the club's midfield during a trophy-laden 13 years at Stamford Bridge thanked his fans on Twitter as he left&nbsp;second tier Derby County. 
 
"Everyone knows my love for this club and the history we have shared, however, my sole focus is on the job in hand and preparing for the season ahead," he said on the club's official Twitter account. 
 
"I am here to work hard, bring further success to the club and I cannot wait to get started." 
 
A relative rookie as a manager, the 41-year-old Lampard earned plaudits for taking Derby into the Championship playoff final in his first year in the dugout&nbsp; - even if they just missed out on promotion to Aston Villa. 
 
He faces no small task in returning Chelsea to the status of Premier League title contenders following Sarri's departure to Juventus and Eden Hazard's move to Real Madrid. 
 
His rebuilding efforts at Chelsea will also be hampered by a FIFA transfer ban. 
 
Sarri, who departed after one season at Stamford Bridge, guided Chelsea to the Europa League title and third place in the Premier League but was never loved by Chelsea fans. 
 
"Lamps" will have no such problems. 
 
The former England midfielder played a key role in Chelsea's golden era, making 648 appearances and scoring a club record 211 goals between 2001-2014. In that time, he won three Premier League titles as well as the Champions League. 
 
"After 13 years with us as a player, where he became a club legend and our record goalscorer, we believe this is the perfect time for him to return and are delighted he has done so," Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said. 
 
"We will do everything we can to ensure he has all the support required to be a huge success."

Lampard's former Chelsea team-mate Petr Cech joined the club as a technical and performance advisor last month, and the pair will play a key role in the overhaul of the playing squad.

Chelsea have appointed Frank Lampard as head coach on a three-year contract, the Premier League club announced on Thursday. Lampard, a former Chelsea player who won three Premier League titles and the Champions League in a 13-year spell at Stamford Bridge, managed Derby County last season and led them to the Championship (second-tier) playoff final.

Chelsea have appointed Frank Lampard as head coach on a three-year contract, the Premier League club announced on Thursday. Lampard, a former Chelsea player who won three Premier League titles and the Champions League in a 13-year spell at Stamford Bridge, managed Derby County last season and led them to the Championship (second-tier) playoff final. "I am immensely proud to be returning to Chelsea as head coach," Lampard said in a statement. Over to you, boss! #WelcomeHomeFrank pic.twitter.com/vPGpCUSsMX — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 4, 2019 × "Everyone knows my love for this club and the history we have shared, however, my sole focus is on the job in hand and preparing for the season ahead." Lampard, adored by Chelsea fans as the heart and soul of the club's midfield during a trophy-laden 13 years at Stamford Bridge thanked his fans on Twitter as he left second tier Derby County. "Everyone knows my love for this club and the history we have shared, however, my sole focus is on the job in hand and preparing for the season ahead," he said on the club's official Twitter account. "I am here to work hard, bring further success to the club and I cannot wait to get started." A relative rookie as a manager, the 41-year-old Lampard earned plaudits for taking Derby into the Championship playoff final in his first year in the dugout - even if they just missed out on promotion to Aston Villa. He faces no small task in returning Chelsea to the status of Premier League title contenders following Sarri's departure to Juventus and Eden Hazard's move to Real Madrid. His rebuilding efforts at Chelsea will also be hampered by a FIFA transfer ban. Sarri, who departed after one season at Stamford Bridge, guided Chelsea to the Europa League title and third place in the Premier League but was never loved by Chelsea fans. "Lamps" will have no such problems. The former England midfielder played a key role in Chelsea's golden era, making 648 appearances and scoring a club record 211 goals between 2001-2014. In that time, he won three Premier League titles as well as the Champions League. "After 13 years with us as a player, where he became a club legend and our record goalscorer, we believe this is the perfect time for him to return and are delighted he has done so," Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said. "We will do everything we can to ensure he has all the support required to be a huge success." Lampard's former Chelsea team-mate Petr Cech joined the club as a technical and performance advisor last month, and the pair will play a key role in the overhaul of the playing squad.

Frank Lampard appointed as Chelsea head coach on three-year deal

Derby Country have given Chelsea permission to speak to their current manager Frank Lampard about the possibility of taking over at Stamford Bridge, the Championship club said on Tuesday.

Lampard has emerged as the favourite to replace Maurizio Sarri at Chelsea, after the Italian joined Serie A champions Juventus earlier this month.

"With pre-season fast approaching for both clubs it is hoped this will allow Chelsea to swiftly conclude their discussions," Derby said in a statement, adding they would not comment further until it was appropriate to do so.

Lampard, who won three Premier League titles and the Champions League as a player at Chelsea, led Derby to the Championship playoff final last season in his first year in management.

Derby Country have given Chelsea permission to speak to their current manager Frank Lampard about the possibility of taking over at Stamford Bridge, the Championship club said on Tuesday.

Derby Country have given Chelsea permission to speak to their current manager Frank Lampard about the possibility of taking over at Stamford Bridge, the Championship club said on Tuesday. Lampard has emerged as the favourite to replace Maurizio Sarri at Chelsea, after the Italian joined Serie A champions Juventus earlier this month. "With pre-season fast approaching for both clubs it is hoped this will allow Chelsea to swiftly conclude their discussions," Derby said in a statement, adding they would not comment further until it was appropriate to do so. Lampard, who won three Premier League titles and the Champions League as a player at Chelsea, led Derby to the Championship playoff final last season in his first year in management.

Derby give Chelsea nod to open managerial talks with Frank Lampard

Chelsea have appointed their former goalkeeper Petr Cech as technical and performance advisor, the Premier League club announced on Friday.

Cech spent 11 years as a player at Chelsea, winning 13 major trophies, including four Premier League titles and the Champions League, before moving to their London rivals Arsenal in 2015.

In his new role, the 37-year-old will work closely with Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia and the first-team coaching staff and travel with the team to away games, the club said in a statement.

"I feel very privileged to have this opportunity to join <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/chelse-lift-the-europa-league-cup-as-hazard-scores-twice-as-parting-gift-222736&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjqv4v5sfriAhXHR30KHQKHBj0QFjABegQIDxAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw07x5QSHl2_CNI4o96SjbB9">Chelsea </a>again and help create the best possible high-level performance environment to continue the success the club has had over the past 15 years," Cech told Chelsea's website.

"I'm looking forward to the new challenge and hope I can use all of my football knowledge and experience to help the team achieve even more success in the future," Cech said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/achieved-everything-i-set-out-to-petr-cech-says-hes-retiring-from-club-football-190536&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiS0uXksfriAhWVV30KHREZDJYQFjACegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0dkbp-Y8lktcD7D1WTFw7l">Cech ended his playing career</a> with Arsenal at the end of last season, making his final professional appearance in their 4-1 defeat by Chelsea in last month's Europa League final.

His appointment kickstarts an overhaul of Chelsea's backroom staff, with the club also looking to appoint a new manager after Maurizio Sarri left for Juventus.

Cech's former Chelsea teammate Frank Lampard has emerged as favourite to replace Sarri after guiding Derby County to the Championship (second-tier) playoff final in his first season in management.

Chelsea have appointed their former goalkeeper Petr Cech as technical and performance advisor, the Premier League club announced on Friday. Cech spent 11 years as a player at Chelsea, winning 13 major trophies, including four Premier League titles and the Champions League, before moving to their London rivals Arsenal in 2015.

Chelsea have appointed their former goalkeeper Petr Cech as technical and performance advisor, the Premier League club announced on Friday. Cech spent 11 years as a player at Chelsea, winning 13 major trophies, including four Premier League titles and the Champions League, before moving to their London rivals Arsenal in 2015. In his new role, the 37-year-old will work closely with Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia and the first-team coaching staff and travel with the team to away games, the club said in a statement. "I feel very privileged to have this opportunity to join Chelsea again and help create the best possible high-level performance environment to continue the success the club has had over the past 15 years," Cech told Chelsea's website. "I'm looking forward to the new challenge and hope I can use all of my football knowledge and experience to help the team achieve even more success in the future," Cech said. Cech ended his playing career with Arsenal at the end of last season, making his final professional appearance in their 4-1 defeat by Chelsea in last month's Europa League final. His appointment kickstarts an overhaul of Chelsea's backroom staff, with the club also looking to appoint a new manager after Maurizio Sarri left for Juventus. Cech's former Chelsea teammate Frank Lampard has emerged as favourite to replace Sarri after guiding Derby County to the Championship (second-tier) playoff final in his first season in management.

Chelsea appoint former goalkeeper Petr Cech as technical advisor

Spain's World Cup-winning striker Fernando Torres announced his retirement from football on Friday, bringing an end to a glittering 18-year career.

Torres, who scored more than 100 goals across two spells at his boyhood club Atletico Madrid, also played for Premier League sides Liverpool and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/chelse-lift-the-europa-league-cup-as-hazard-scores-twice-as-parting-gift-222736&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj97JHClvriAhWUF4gKHXYxBoYQFjABegQIDxAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw2d1vrXl284nxWNRm-H5k34">Chelsea </a>and Italy's AC Milan.

He left Atletico to join Japan's Sagan Tosu in July last year but has struggled to hit the heights of his best days at Atletico and Liverpool at the J-League side.

"After 18 exciting years, the time has come to put an end to my football career," the 35-year-old wrote on Twitter, adding that he would hold a news conference in Japan on Sunday to explain his decision.

Torres made his Spain debut in 2003 and scored the winning goal in the 2008 European Championship final against Germany before helping his country win their first World Cup in 2010.

He was the top scorer at Euro 2012 as Spain successfully defended their title and scored 38 goals in 110 appearances for his country in total, making him Spain's country's third-highest goalscorer behind David Villa (59) and Raul (44).

Torres enjoyed his the most prolific spell at Liverpool between 2007 and 2011, netting 81 goals in 142 games across all competitions.

He moved to Chelsea from Liverpool for a then British record fee of 50 million pounds ($63.49 million) and won the FA Cup, Champions League and Europa League with the London club.

Spain's World Cup-winning striker Fernando Torres announced his retirement from football on Friday, bringing an end to a glittering 18-year career. Torres, who scored more than 100 goals across two spells at his boyhood club Atletico Madrid, also played for Premier League sides Liverpool and Chelsea and Italy's AC Milan.

Spain's World Cup-winning striker Fernando Torres announced his retirement from football on Friday, bringing an end to a glittering 18-year career. Torres, who scored more than 100 goals across two spells at his boyhood club Atletico Madrid, also played for Premier League sides Liverpool and Chelsea and Italy's AC Milan. He left Atletico to join Japan's Sagan Tosu in July last year but has struggled to hit the heights of his best days at Atletico and Liverpool at the J-League side. "After 18 exciting years, the time has come to put an end to my football career," the 35-year-old wrote on Twitter, adding that he would hold a news conference in Japan on Sunday to explain his decision. Torres made his Spain debut in 2003 and scored the winning goal in the 2008 European Championship final against Germany before helping his country win their first World Cup in 2010. He was the top scorer at Euro 2012 as Spain successfully defended their title and scored 38 goals in 110 appearances for his country in total, making him Spain's country's third-highest goalscorer behind David Villa (59) and Raul (44). Torres enjoyed his the most prolific spell at Liverpool between 2007 and 2011, netting 81 goals in 142 games across all competitions. He moved to Chelsea from Liverpool for a then British record fee of 50 million pounds ($63.49 million) and won the FA Cup, Champions League and Europa League with the London club.

Fernando Torres, Spain's World Cup-winning striker announces retirement

Maurizio Sarri said being appointed Juventus' new head coach was the "crowning achievement" of his long career and he welcomed a return to Italy following a year in the English Premier League with Chelsea.

The Serie A champions appointed Sarri on a three-year contract earlier this week after agreeing on a compensation fee with Chelsea and the 60-year-old replaces <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-juventus-boss-massimiliano-allegri-wants-year-off-from-football-227088&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjj-JaKmfjiAhXLYo8KHdnNDqQQFjAEegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1fhESwylt8rWefgb140k8e">Massimiliano Allegri</a>, who stepped down at the end of the season.

"It's the crowning achievement of a long career. At Napoli I gave my all, then I decided to have a great experience in the Premier League. Juventus are the best Italian club right now and offered me a chance to return to Italy," Sarri told reporters.

"It's been a long journey for me made up of gradual steps. I'm happy to be at the most important team in Italy and this is a further step forward after the experience at Chelsea," he said.

Sarri coached Juventus' rivals Napoli between 2015 and 2018 and nearly broke their stranglehold on the league in his final season.

The Naples side ran Juventus close in the title race before falling four points short.

"For three years I would wake up and think about how to defeat Juventus because they were a winning team," Sarri added.

"I gave 110% but we still couldn't do it. It was an experience and I will now give everything for this club," he added.

Although Sarri won the Europa League with <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/chelse-lift-the-europa-league-cup-as-hazard-scores-twice-as-parting-gift-222736&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjd9Mf0mPjiAhWBQY8KHYxKCd44ChAWMAV6BAgKEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw0zfr8YfdvGAkgP5hwVCUyD">Chelsea </a>and led them to a third-place&nbsp;league finish, the fans did not take to the style of play he tried to implement, which worked wonders for him at Napoli.

While Juventus seemed to lack a recognisable playing style under the pragmatic Allegri in his final season, Sarri said he would build his team around Juventus forwards Cristiano Ronaldo and Paulo Dybala.

"You have to start with the talented players who can make the difference like Cristiano Ronaldo, Paulo Dybala and Douglas Costa and build around them," Sarri said.

"When you have a player with the qualities of Dybala or Ronaldo, they can play in any role. What can change is only the interpretation of the role. Coaching Ronaldo will be yet another step forward, I'd like to help him break some new records," Sarri said.

Juventus director Fabio Paratici said hiring Sarri to replace Allegri was a straightforward decision.

"The style of play was not a driving factor in the change. Sarri was always the first choice. We tried to make him understand right away that we really wanted him," Paratici said.

"We chose Sarri because we feel he is the best manager for Juventus right now. As were (former manager Antonio) Conte and Allegri in their respective moments and they showed great quality," he added.

Maurizio Sarri said being appointed Juventus' new head coach was the "crowning achievement" of his long career and he welcomed a return to Italy following a year in the English Premier League with Chelsea.

Maurizio Sarri said being appointed Juventus' new head coach was the "crowning achievement" of his long career and he welcomed a return to Italy following a year in the English Premier League with Chelsea. The Serie A champions appointed Sarri on a three-year contract earlier this week after agreeing on a compensation fee with Chelsea and the 60-year-old replaces Massimiliano Allegri, who stepped down at the end of the season. "It's the crowning achievement of a long career. At Napoli I gave my all, then I decided to have a great experience in the Premier League. Juventus are the best Italian club right now and offered me a chance to return to Italy," Sarri told reporters. "It's been a long journey for me made up of gradual steps. I'm happy to be at the most important team in Italy and this is a further step forward after the experience at Chelsea," he said. Sarri coached Juventus' rivals Napoli between 2015 and 2018 and nearly broke their stranglehold on the league in his final season. The Naples side ran Juventus close in the title race before falling four points short. "For three years I would wake up and think about how to defeat Juventus because they were a winning team," Sarri added. "I gave 110% but we still couldn't do it. It was an experience and I will now give everything for this club," he added. Although Sarri won the Europa League with Chelsea and led them to a third-place league finish, the fans did not take to the style of play he tried to implement, which worked wonders for him at Napoli. While Juventus seemed to lack a recognisable playing style under the pragmatic Allegri in his final season, Sarri said he would build his team around Juventus forwards Cristiano Ronaldo and Paulo Dybala. "You have to start with the talented players who can make the difference like Cristiano Ronaldo, Paulo Dybala and Douglas Costa and build around them," Sarri said. "When you have a player with the qualities of Dybala or Ronaldo, they can play in any role. What can change is only the interpretation of the role. Coaching Ronaldo will be yet another step forward, I'd like to help him break some new records," Sarri said. Juventus director Fabio Paratici said hiring Sarri to replace Allegri was a straightforward decision. "The style of play was not a driving factor in the change. Sarri was always the first choice. We tried to make him understand right away that we really wanted him," Paratici said. "We chose Sarri because we feel he is the best manager for Juventus right now. As were (former manager Antonio) Conte and Allegri in their respective moments and they showed great quality," he added.

Juventus appointment 'crowning achievement': Maurizio Sarri

Serie A champions Juventus appointed Maurizio Sarri as their new coach on Sunday, hoping that his ambitious possession-based game would extend their dominance of Italian football and bring them European silverware.

British media reported Juventus agreed to a compensation fee with Chelsea in excess of $6.30 million&nbsp;for Sarri, who joins the Italian giants on a three-year contract.

Sarri was at Chelsea for just one season, where he won the Europa League -- the first major trophy of his career -- and led them to a third-place finish in the Premier League.

On paper it was a commendable feat, but it was a rocky campaign for the former Napoli boss whose team never seemed to fully adapt to his so-called "Sarri-ball" system.

"In talks we had following the Europa League final, Maurizio made it clear how strongly he desired to return to his native country, explaining that his reasons for wanting to return to work in Italy were significant," Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said in a statement.

"He also believed it important to be nearer his family, and for the well-being of his elderly parents he felt he needed to live closer to them at this point."

The chain-smoking 60-year-old coach replaced the phlegmatic Massimiliano Allegri who won five successive Serie A titles in as many seasons in charge -- extending Juve's run to eight in a row -- plus the Coppa Italia four times. He also led them to two Champions League finals.

The move is likely to infuriate supporters at Napoli, where Sarri spent three seasons and turned them into the team most likely to threaten Juve's dominance.

Napoli finished as runners-up twice and third place once under Sarri's leadership and achieved a club record 91 points in the 2017-18 when they came agonisingly close to snatching the title -- even beating Juve 1-0 in Turin towards the end of the season.

Juventus seemed to lack a recognisable playing style under Allegri, a pragmatic coach who last season fielded 38 different lineups in 38 league matches.

That will not be the case under Sarri, who turned Napoli into the most eye-catching Serie A side with their complex passing movements.

His style, however, makes huge demands of the players and Sarri was also criticised at Napoli over his failure to rest players, something which could prove a problem at Juventus who have more strength-in-depth and will be battling on two fronts.

He will also have to find a way of incorporating Cristiano Ronaldo into his team. The 34-year-old, with two years of his Juventus contract still to run, is still lethal in small bursts but not able to maintain such a high tempo over 90 minutes.

A former bank employee, Sarri never played football professionally and made his Serie A coaching debut at the age of 55 with Empoli after winning promotion with them in 2014.

Known as “Mr 33”, because he reputedly thought up 33 different plans for setpieces, Sarri quickly innovated at Napoli by using a drone to film training sessions from above.

Sarri began coaching amateur teams back in the 1990s, managing to combine his hobby with a banking career that took him to the United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland and Luxembourg.

He coached 16 different sides in the lower division of the Italian league before finally reaching Serie A with Empoli.

Serie A champions Juventus appointed Maurizio Sarri as their new coach on Sunday, hoping that his ambitious possession-based game would extend their dominance of Italian football and bring them European silverware.

Serie A champions Juventus appointed Maurizio Sarri as their new coach on Sunday, hoping that his ambitious possession-based game would extend their dominance of Italian football and bring them European silverware. British media reported Juventus agreed to a compensation fee with Chelsea in excess of $6.30 million for Sarri, who joins the Italian giants on a three-year contract. Sarri was at Chelsea for just one season, where he won the Europa League -- the first major trophy of his career -- and led them to a third-place finish in the Premier League. On paper it was a commendable feat, but it was a rocky campaign for the former Napoli boss whose team never seemed to fully adapt to his so-called "Sarri-ball" system. "In talks we had following the Europa League final, Maurizio made it clear how strongly he desired to return to his native country, explaining that his reasons for wanting to return to work in Italy were significant," Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said in a statement. "He also believed it important to be nearer his family, and for the well-being of his elderly parents he felt he needed to live closer to them at this point." The chain-smoking 60-year-old coach replaced the phlegmatic Massimiliano Allegri who won five successive Serie A titles in as many seasons in charge -- extending Juve's run to eight in a row -- plus the Coppa Italia four times. He also led them to two Champions League finals. The move is likely to infuriate supporters at Napoli, where Sarri spent three seasons and turned them into the team most likely to threaten Juve's dominance. Napoli finished as runners-up twice and third place once under Sarri's leadership and achieved a club record 91 points in the 2017-18 when they came agonisingly close to snatching the title -- even beating Juve 1-0 in Turin towards the end of the season. Juventus seemed to lack a recognisable playing style under Allegri, a pragmatic coach who last season fielded 38 different lineups in 38 league matches. That will not be the case under Sarri, who turned Napoli into the most eye-catching Serie A side with their complex passing movements. His style, however, makes huge demands of the players and Sarri was also criticised at Napoli over his failure to rest players, something which could prove a problem at Juventus who have more strength-in-depth and will be battling on two fronts. He will also have to find a way of incorporating Cristiano Ronaldo into his team. The 34-year-old, with two years of his Juventus contract still to run, is still lethal in small bursts but not able to maintain such a high tempo over 90 minutes. A former bank employee, Sarri never played football professionally and made his Serie A coaching debut at the age of 55 with Empoli after winning promotion with them in 2014. Known as “Mr 33”, because he reputedly thought up 33 different plans for setpieces, Sarri quickly innovated at Napoli by using a drone to film training sessions from above. Sarri began coaching amateur teams back in the 1990s, managing to combine his hobby with a banking career that took him to the United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland and Luxembourg. He coached 16 different sides in the lower division of the Italian league before finally reaching Serie A with Empoli.

Maurizio Sarri returns to Italy to coach Juventus

Eden Hazard was unveiled at the Santiago Bernabeu on Thursday as around 50,000 supporters turned out to welcome the player they hope will launch a glorious <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/eden-hazard-could-be-catalyst-for-new-real-madrid-era-says-belgium-coach-roberto-martinez-226154&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkxNG6rejiAhVOnY8KHaqnD0AQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1tvAhvIBmiDziPMMNbW-lv">new era</a> under Zinedine Zidane.

The 28-year-old Hazard was presented with the home shirt, which was without a number, by club president Florentino Perez, moments after the Belgian had delivered a brief statement to his expectant fans.

"Hello everyone," Hazard started in Spanish, to huge cheers, before continuing in French. "It was my dream since I was small to play for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/eden-hazard-joins-real-madrid-on-five-year-contract-for-zidanes-re-build-225379&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkxNG6rejiAhVOnY8KHaqnD0AQFjABegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3nvWTldibpo0WqoPRj8_iW">Real Madrid</a> and now I am here."

"You are one of the best players in the world. We know Real Madrid was where you wanted to be and now you're here," added Perez.

Madrid confirmed the much-anticipated transfer of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-its-a-goodbye-says-eden-hazard-after-winning-europa-league-for-chelsea-222654&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkxNG6rejiAhVOnY8KHaqnD0AQFjAEegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2IyRIa1vcV6PXJj3NaYz97">Hazard </a>from Chelsea on Friday for an initial 100 million euros ($113 million), with another 45 million in potential add-ons.&nbsp;

The full amount would trump the 101 million euros Madrid paid Tottenham for Gareth Bale and the 91 million euros they spent to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United.&nbsp;

Ronaldo attracted almost 80,000 for his presentation in 2009 and while the attendance for Hazard was not as large, this was still an impressive turnout.

Even three hours before, long queues snaked around the stadium while some supporters were seen running towards entrances they heard had suddenly been opened.

Inside, they roared as Hazard's best goals were shown on a big screen and then again when he struck a penalty into an open net.

Hazard juggled with one ball in front of the cameras and then booted dozens of them into the stands, waving and applauding as he walked around the edge of the pitch.

Before he emerged, there had been chants of "We want Mbappe!" and a scattering of whistles for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-hope-eden-hazard-comes-to-madrid-this-year-says-president-florentino-perez-222178&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkxNG6rejiAhVOnY8KHaqnD0AQFjAHegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1RyWM40Tuvoy1_SXHFBvYN">Perez</a>, who has been tasked with rebuilding a Madrid squad that woefully underperformed last season.

Perez has admitted to being interested in Kylian Mbappe but the club's transfers this summer already amount to around 300 million euros after the arrivals of Luka Jovic, Eder Militao and Ferland Mendy.

There will surely have to be sales before the French striker could be prized from Paris Saint-Germain.

Without Mbappe, it will be Hazard, who scored 110 goals in seven seasons at Chelsea, who may be the star of Zidane's renovated team, with the winger's arrival bolstering an already-bloated list of attacking options.

Scrapping for the spots in support of Karim Benzema are currently Vinicius Junior, Bale, Isco, Brahim Diaz, Marco Asensio, Lucas Vazquez and even James Rodriguez, who has returned from a loan spell at Bayern Munich.

Hazard's place is all-but guaranteed and he will be expected to at least help in plugging the gap left by Ronaldo's departure to Juventus.

They are big shoes to fill.

Eden Hazard was unveiled at the Santiago Bernabeu on Thursday as around 50,000 supporters turned out to welcome the player they hope will launch a glorious new era under Zinedine Zidane.

Eden Hazard was unveiled at the Santiago Bernabeu on Thursday as around 50,000 supporters turned out to welcome the player they hope will launch a glorious new era under Zinedine Zidane. The 28-year-old Hazard was presented with the home shirt, which was without a number, by club president Florentino Perez, moments after the Belgian had delivered a brief statement to his expectant fans. "Hello everyone," Hazard started in Spanish, to huge cheers, before continuing in French. "It was my dream since I was small to play for Real Madrid and now I am here." "You are one of the best players in the world. We know Real Madrid was where you wanted to be and now you're here," added Perez. Madrid confirmed the much-anticipated transfer of Hazard from Chelsea on Friday for an initial 100 million euros ($113 million), with another 45 million in potential add-ons. The full amount would trump the 101 million euros Madrid paid Tottenham for Gareth Bale and the 91 million euros they spent to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United. Ronaldo attracted almost 80,000 for his presentation in 2009 and while the attendance for Hazard was not as large, this was still an impressive turnout. Even three hours before, long queues snaked around the stadium while some supporters were seen running towards entrances they heard had suddenly been opened. Inside, they roared as Hazard's best goals were shown on a big screen and then again when he struck a penalty into an open net. Hazard juggled with one ball in front of the cameras and then booted dozens of them into the stands, waving and applauding as he walked around the edge of the pitch. Before he emerged, there had been chants of "We want Mbappe!" and a scattering of whistles for Perez, who has been tasked with rebuilding a Madrid squad that woefully underperformed last season. Perez has admitted to being interested in Kylian Mbappe but the club's transfers this summer already amount to around 300 million euros after the arrivals of Luka Jovic, Eder Militao and Ferland Mendy. There will surely have to be sales before the French striker could be prized from Paris Saint-Germain. Without Mbappe, it will be Hazard, who scored 110 goals in seven seasons at Chelsea, who may be the star of Zidane's renovated team, with the winger's arrival bolstering an already-bloated list of attacking options. Scrapping for the spots in support of Karim Benzema are currently Vinicius Junior, Bale, Isco, Brahim Diaz, Marco Asensio, Lucas Vazquez and even James Rodriguez, who has returned from a loan spell at Bayern Munich. Hazard's place is all-but guaranteed and he will be expected to at least help in plugging the gap left by Ronaldo's departure to Juventus. They are big shoes to fill.

It was my dream to play for Real Madrid, says Eden Hazard at Santiago Bernabeu unveiling

Champions <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-key-players-that-led-manchester-city-to-english-premier-league-glory-218210&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi7lsrqiubiAhVVjuYKHYCoByMQFjAFegQIBhAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw0z62E-uamuAODy_rjk04C4">Manchester City</a> will kick off their 2019-20 Premier League season with an away trip to West Ham United while Liverpool get the ball rolling with a Friday evening home clash against promoted Norwich City.

The fixtures, released at 0800 GMT on Thursday, also included a meaty first-weekend clash with Manchester United hosting <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-best-in-world-i-am-a-lucky-man-to-coach-them-says-maurizio-sarri-222663&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiMqJqgi-biAhWTWX0KHdDxBC0QFjAFegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0EcqqdueFXBCRAXXMxv5oH">Chelsea</a>.

Tottenham Hotspur host Aston Villa, who returned to the top flight via the playoffs after a three-season absence.

Arsenal travel to Newcastle United while Sheffield United, the other promoted club, start at Bournemouth.

Leicester City host Wolverhampton Wanderers, Burnley face Southampton, Crystal Palace host Everton and FA Cup runners-up Watford are at home to Brighton and Hove Albion.

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The upcoming top-flight season will be the first to include a brief mid-season break.

A set of fixtures will be spread over a two-week period in February, meaning all clubs get a week off.

Champions Manchester City will kick off their 2019-20 Premier League season with an away trip to West Ham United while Liverpool get the ball rolling with a Friday evening home clash against promoted Norwich City.

Champions Manchester City will kick off their 2019-20 Premier League season with an away trip to West Ham United while Liverpool get the ball rolling with a Friday evening home clash against promoted Norwich City. The fixtures, released at 0800 GMT on Thursday, also included a meaty first-weekend clash with Manchester United hosting Chelsea. Tottenham Hotspur host Aston Villa, who returned to the top flight via the playoffs after a three-season absence. Arsenal travel to Newcastle United while Sheffield United, the other promoted club, start at Bournemouth. Leicester City host Wolverhampton Wanderers, Burnley face Southampton, Crystal Palace host Everton and FA Cup runners-up Watford are at home to Brighton and Hove Albion. 🚨 Announce 2019/20 #PLfixtures 🚨 Full list 👉 https://t.co/iQKSNaf596#PremierLeaguefixtures pic.twitter.com/dKBinVJGV9 — Premier League (@premierleague) June 13, 2019 × The upcoming top-flight season will be the first to include a brief mid-season break. A set of fixtures will be spread over a two-week period in February, meaning all clubs get a week off.

Champions Manchester City to kick off Premier League season at West Ham

Real Madrid can build a new team around latest signing Eden Hazard, his Belgium coach Roberto Martinez said on the eve of their Euro 2020 qualifier against Scotland on Monday.

Real ended their long pursuit of the winger on Friday when they agreed to sign him from Chelsea on a five-year contract for a reported 100 million euros ($113.15 million).

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/eden-hazard-joins-real-madrid-on-five-year-contract-for-zidanes-re-build-225379&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj9vrf13uDiAhUo7XMBHfVVAhEQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0AnMsdiYTe3F1MwgSSYPNL">Hazard</a>, who scored 110 goals in 352 games for Chelsea after joining from Lille in 2012, will be officially presented at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium next Thursday.

“He is an unbelievable personality. His focus in a match lies in the winning of the game," Martinez told reporters.

“He is now playing the best football of his career and he is a player around which a new project can be built,” added the Spaniard, whose side top Group I and looking for a fourth win out of four when they host the Scots in Brussels on Tuesday.

“Eden is a phenomenal footballer and I think for him several new chapters can be written about his career. The move to Real is his dream, the perfect next step. The whole transfer happened with a lot of respect. <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-its-a-goodbye-says-eden-hazard-after-winning-europa-league-for-chelsea-222654&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj9vrf13uDiAhUo7XMBHfVVAhEQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Odpc5LqMU-PD6EUSB6xnX">Eden </a>is an example to all of a player who can go back to all his old clubs with his head held high,'' Martinez said.

Hazard, 28, is moving to Spain after helping Chelsea win the Europa League and finish third in the Premier League.

“I’m looking forward to seeing him at work at <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-agree-fee-for-chelseas-eden-hazard-reports-225078&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj9vrf13uDiAhUo7XMBHfVVAhEQFjABegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2bJ2n8402HFBozo0WfI0VE">Real</a>,” added Martinez who will be relying on his captain to help beat third-placed Scotland, who are three points behind the leaders.

“I’m not planning to change much,” he said of his team selection after Saturday’s 3-0 home win over Kazakhstan.

“We don’t underestimate any visitors. Scotland have got some real talent and coach Steve Clarke is one of the gentlemen of the game,” Martinez&nbsp;said.

Martinez was subjected at Monday’s news conference to a gentle ribbing about divided family loyalty since his wife, Beth is Scottish.

“Well, we put a ban up at home so we aren't speaking about football since the Kazakhstan game, but I hope that everyone is very upset when I get home.

“She's no problem, it's more, my father-in-law," joked Martinez.

Real Madrid can build a new team around latest signing Eden Hazard, his Belgium coach Roberto Martinez said on the eve of their Euro 2020 qualifier against Scotland on Monday.

Real Madrid can build a new team around latest signing Eden Hazard, his Belgium coach Roberto Martinez said on the eve of their Euro 2020 qualifier against Scotland on Monday. Real ended their long pursuit of the winger on Friday when they agreed to sign him from Chelsea on a five-year contract for a reported 100 million euros ($113.15 million). Hazard, who scored 110 goals in 352 games for Chelsea after joining from Lille in 2012, will be officially presented at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium next Thursday. “He is an unbelievable personality. His focus in a match lies in the winning of the game," Martinez told reporters. “He is now playing the best football of his career and he is a player around which a new project can be built,” added the Spaniard, whose side top Group I and looking for a fourth win out of four when they host the Scots in Brussels on Tuesday. “Eden is a phenomenal footballer and I think for him several new chapters can be written about his career. The move to Real is his dream, the perfect next step. The whole transfer happened with a lot of respect. Eden is an example to all of a player who can go back to all his old clubs with his head held high,'' Martinez said. Hazard, 28, is moving to Spain after helping Chelsea win the Europa League and finish third in the Premier League. “I’m looking forward to seeing him at work at Real,” added Martinez who will be relying on his captain to help beat third-placed Scotland, who are three points behind the leaders. “I’m not planning to change much,” he said of his team selection after Saturday’s 3-0 home win over Kazakhstan. “We don’t underestimate any visitors. Scotland have got some real talent and coach Steve Clarke is one of the gentlemen of the game,” Martinez said. Martinez was subjected at Monday’s news conference to a gentle ribbing about divided family loyalty since his wife, Beth is Scottish. “Well, we put a ban up at home so we aren't speaking about football since the Kazakhstan game, but I hope that everyone is very upset when I get home. “She's no problem, it's more, my father-in-law," joked Martinez.

Eden Hazard could be catalyst for new Real Madrid era, says Belgium coach Roberto Martinez

Real Madrid ended their long pursuit of Eden Hazard on Friday when they agreed to sign the Belgium winger from Chelsea on a five-year contract for a reported 100 million euros ($113.34 million), making him their joint-record signing.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-agree-fee-for-chelseas-eden-hazard-reports-225078&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwin1srYl9niAhV96XMBHZTlCBgQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3CqjAQcErvZb7kx_01blPA">Real </a>did not reveal the fee but Spanish media reports said it was the same price Madrid paid for Gareth Bale when he joined from Tottenham Hotspur in 2013, a staggering amount considering Hazard was set to become a free agent in June 2020.

"Real Madrid and Chelsea have agreed on the transfer for the player Eden Hazard," the Spanish club said in a statement.

"The player will be tied to the club for the next five seasons, until June 30, 2024."

The Belgian will be officially presented at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium next Thursday, subject to completing a medical.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-its-a-goodbye-says-eden-hazard-after-winning-europa-league-for-chelsea-222654&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwin1srYl9niAhV96XMBHZTlCBgQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0XAjIWc_phOasa76RZDqIw">Hazard</a>, who becomes Chelsea's most expensive sale, expressed his gratitude to a club where he has spent the last seven years while admitting he had always longed to play for Madrid.

"To my Chelsea friends and family,&nbsp;You now know that I will be joining Real Madrid. It’s no secret that it was my dream to play for them since I was a young boy just scoring my first goal," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-final-a-farewell-match-for-maurizio-sarri-eden-hazard-and-petr-cech-222502&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwin1srYl9niAhV96XMBHZTlCBgQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2_zJFco0ZM8uhUnLaJCGLU">Hazard </a>wrote on his official Facebook account.

"I have tried my very best not to distract myself or the team through this difficult period of speculation and media attention, especially the last six months,"&nbsp;Hazard said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-hazard-scores-twice-as-chelsea-thrash-arsenal-in-final-222607&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwin1srYl9niAhV96XMBHZTlCBgQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1dJFYogtIAORzj491RGB13">Hazard's </a>transfer is the latest in a long run of 'Galactico' signings made by Real but he is also the first top-class player to move to the club since Colombian James Rodriguez in 2014.

ZIDANE ADMIRATION

Real president Florentino Perez said last month that they tried to sign Hazard on several occasions while coach Zinedine Zidane is a long-time admirer of the Belgian, who he named as a "star of the future" in 2010 when Hazard was playing for Lille.

He leaves Chelsea having recently guided the west London club to the Europa League title, scoring twice in a 4-1 win over rivals Arsenal in last month's final in Baku.

The 28-year-old joined <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-best-in-world-i-am-a-lucky-man-to-coach-them-says-maurizio-sarri-222663&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiDnpn4l9niAhVKvo8KHUR6Ct4QFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1KhXSZRXNgquel7uuWfFym">Chelsea </a>from Lille in 2012 for 32 million pounds ($40.61 million) and won the Europa League in his first season. He also won the Premier League title in 2015 and in 2017 as well as one League Cup and the FA Cup.

He scored 16 goals and created another 15 in the Premier League this season as Chelsea finished third in the table.

"Chelsea and especially Chelsea fans will always be special to me and next season I will look for your results first," Hazard added.

"I hope that we are drawn against each other in the Champions League next season and every season so we can meet again,"&nbsp;Hazard said.

Hazard is Real's third major signing as they bid to rebuild their squad after an embarrassing campaign on all fronts in which they ended up without a trophy, sacked two coaches and finished 19 points adrift of La Liga champions Barcelona.

They have already recruited Brazilian defender Eder Militao from Porto for a reported 50 million euros and Serbian striker Luka Jovic from Eintracht Frankfurt for 60 million euros.

Brazilian forward Rodrygo is also due to join Real next season after agreeing a reported 45 million euro move from Santos last year.

Real Madrid ended their long pursuit of Eden Hazard on Friday when they agreed to sign the Belgium winger from Chelsea on a five-year contract for a reported 100 million euros ($113.

Real Madrid ended their long pursuit of Eden Hazard on Friday when they agreed to sign the Belgium winger from Chelsea on a five-year contract for a reported 100 million euros ($113.34 million), making him their joint-record signing. Real did not reveal the fee but Spanish media reports said it was the same price Madrid paid for Gareth Bale when he joined from Tottenham Hotspur in 2013, a staggering amount considering Hazard was set to become a free agent in June 2020. "Real Madrid and Chelsea have agreed on the transfer for the player Eden Hazard," the Spanish club said in a statement. "The player will be tied to the club for the next five seasons, until June 30, 2024." The Belgian will be officially presented at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium next Thursday, subject to completing a medical. Hazard, who becomes Chelsea's most expensive sale, expressed his gratitude to a club where he has spent the last seven years while admitting he had always longed to play for Madrid. "To my Chelsea friends and family, You now know that I will be joining Real Madrid. It’s no secret that it was my dream to play for them since I was a young boy just scoring my first goal," Hazard wrote on his official Facebook account. "I have tried my very best not to distract myself or the team through this difficult period of speculation and media attention, especially the last six months," Hazard said. Hazard's transfer is the latest in a long run of 'Galactico' signings made by Real but he is also the first top-class player to move to the club since Colombian James Rodriguez in 2014. ZIDANE ADMIRATION Real president Florentino Perez said last month that they tried to sign Hazard on several occasions while coach Zinedine Zidane is a long-time admirer of the Belgian, who he named as a "star of the future" in 2010 when Hazard was playing for Lille. He leaves Chelsea having recently guided the west London club to the Europa League title, scoring twice in a 4-1 win over rivals Arsenal in last month's final in Baku. The 28-year-old joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012 for 32 million pounds ($40.61 million) and won the Europa League in his first season. He also won the Premier League title in 2015 and in 2017 as well as one League Cup and the FA Cup. He scored 16 goals and created another 15 in the Premier League this season as Chelsea finished third in the table. "Chelsea and especially Chelsea fans will always be special to me and next season I will look for your results first," Hazard added. "I hope that we are drawn against each other in the Champions League next season and every season so we can meet again," Hazard said. Hazard is Real's third major signing as they bid to rebuild their squad after an embarrassing campaign on all fronts in which they ended up without a trophy, sacked two coaches and finished 19 points adrift of La Liga champions Barcelona. They have already recruited Brazilian defender Eder Militao from Porto for a reported 50 million euros and Serbian striker Luka Jovic from Eintracht Frankfurt for 60 million euros. Brazilian forward Rodrygo is also due to join Real next season after agreeing a reported 45 million euro move from Santos last year.

Eden Hazard joins Real Madrid on five-year contract for Zidane's re-build

English Premier League side Chelsea have filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against a transfer ban imposed by world soccer governing body <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-hear-chelsea-transfer-ban-appeal-on-april-11-205692&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiekfKYiNfiAhVk6nMBHWyHCXoQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0IrV6Yq-BsVvMQDHxebUkL">FIFA</a>, the CAS said on Friday.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-hazard-scores-twice-as-chelsea-thrash-arsenal-in-final-222607&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiBprqOiNfiAhWh63MBHfSQB3MQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0QiRJz0foD3nZc5qV6T0DD">The Europa League champions</a> were sanctioned in February for breaching rules regarding the international transfer and registration of players under 18. They were also fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($603,864.73).

The transfer ban prevents Chelsea from signing players in the close season and in the January transfer window in 2020 and CAS said they had registered the club's appeal, which could be considered just by written submissions.

"Following the hearing, if one is held... the panel deliberates and then issues its decision in the form of an Arbitral Award. It is not possible to say at this time when the Arbitral Award will be issued," the CAS statement read.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-lose-transfer-ban-appeal-but-can-register-minor-players-says-fifa-217035&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiekfKYiNfiAhVk6nMBHWyHCXoQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0_37kO6aADujWEg1tgxigi">Chelsea </a>had initially appealed against FIFA's ban in April and FIFA's Appeal Committee partially upheld the appeal, allowing the London club to register youth players during the period.

The club refuted FIFA's findings and had said last month they would appeal the decision to the CAS.

The CAS also said they would not provide any more information on the matter until the panel came to a decision.

English Premier League side Chelsea have filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against a transfer ban imposed by world soccer governing body FIFA, the CAS said on Friday.

English Premier League side Chelsea have filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against a transfer ban imposed by world soccer governing body FIFA, the CAS said on Friday. The Europa League champions were sanctioned in February for breaching rules regarding the international transfer and registration of players under 18. They were also fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($603,864.73). The transfer ban prevents Chelsea from signing players in the close season and in the January transfer window in 2020 and CAS said they had registered the club's appeal, which could be considered just by written submissions. "Following the hearing, if one is held... the panel deliberates and then issues its decision in the form of an Arbitral Award. It is not possible to say at this time when the Arbitral Award will be issued," the CAS statement read. Chelsea had initially appealed against FIFA's ban in April and FIFA's Appeal Committee partially upheld the appeal, allowing the London club to register youth players during the period. The club refuted FIFA's findings and had said last month they would appeal the decision to the CAS. The CAS also said they would not provide any more information on the matter until the panel came to a decision.

Chelsea file appeal against FIFA transfer ban to CAS

Chelsea forward <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Eden+Hazard">Eden Hazard</a> is set to join Real Madrid after a deal worth €100 million&nbsp;($112.65 million) plus add-ons was agreed between the two clubs on Thursday, British and Spanish media reported.

There was no official word from Madrid or London.

Spain's AS sports daily, citing unnamed sources, said on its website that the Premier League side had accepted Real's offer for the 28-year-old.&nbsp;

It said Hazard, who is training with Belgium ahead of a weekend Euro 2020 qualifier against Kazakhstan, had been informed and the deal could be announced later.

Sky Sports television said Chelsea had wanted in the region of 130 million pounds ($165.20 million), a fee that could ultimately be reached through performance-related clauses.

Hazard, who was set to become a free agent in June 2020, guided Chelsea to the Europa League title in Baku last month with two goals in a 4-1 win over London rivals Arsenal.

"My dream was to play in the Premier League and I did it for seven years. I think it's a goodbye," he said after that game.

He joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012 for 32 million pounds and won the Europa League in his first season.

He later won the Premier League title in 2015 and 2017 as well as one League Cup and FA Cup.

He scored 16 goals and created another 15 in the Premier League last season as Chelsea finished third in the table.

Chelsea forward Eden Hazard is set to join Real Madrid after a deal worth €100 million ($112.65 million) plus add-ons was agreed between the two clubs on Thursday, British and Spanish media reported.

Chelsea forward Eden Hazard is set to join Real Madrid after a deal worth €100 million ($112.65 million) plus add-ons was agreed between the two clubs on Thursday, British and Spanish media reported. There was no official word from Madrid or London. Spain's AS sports daily, citing unnamed sources, said on its website that the Premier League side had accepted Real's offer for the 28-year-old. It said Hazard, who is training with Belgium ahead of a weekend Euro 2020 qualifier against Kazakhstan, had been informed and the deal could be announced later. Sky Sports television said Chelsea had wanted in the region of 130 million pounds ($165.20 million), a fee that could ultimately be reached through performance-related clauses. Hazard, who was set to become a free agent in June 2020, guided Chelsea to the Europa League title in Baku last month with two goals in a 4-1 win over London rivals Arsenal. "My dream was to play in the Premier League and I did it for seven years. I think it's a goodbye," he said after that game. He joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012 for 32 million pounds and won the Europa League in his first season. He later won the Premier League title in 2015 and 2017 as well as one League Cup and FA Cup. He scored 16 goals and created another 15 in the Premier League last season as Chelsea finished third in the table.

Real Madrid agree fee for Chelsea's Eden Hazard: Reports

Chelsea manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Maurizio+Sarri">Maurizio Sarri</a> has told the club he wants to leave after a single season to join Italian champions Juventus, according to reports on Saturday.

Sarri has been an uncomfortable fit with fans at Stamford Bridge and despite winning the Europa League this week and finishing third in the Premier League, there is a perception the chain-smoking coach is unwilling to adapt tactics when things go wrong.

Sarri has been widely linked with Juventus, who are seeking a successor to Massimiliano Allegri, although sports daily Gazzetta reported Saturday that Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino was also on their radar.

Sarri held talks with Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia on Friday and informed her that he wanted to return to his homeland, the reports in Britain and Italy said.

Granovskaia, it is said, has promised to talk to club owner Roman Abramovich about his future, but it would seem Chelsea will seek compensation from any suitor.

Sarri succeeded Antonio Conte as Chelsea manager last summer after spending three years at Napoli.

The 60-year-old enjoyed a tremendous start at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea went unbeaten in 18 games.

But Sarri endured consistent criticism from a significant portion of the club's supporters throughout the campaign and suffered heavy 4-0 and 6-0 defeats at Bournemouth and Manchester City.

Chelsea, however, reached the Carabao&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;final, which they lost on penalties to Manchester City, before finishing the season strongly.

Sarri claimed the first major trophy of his career when Chelsea beat Arsenal 4-1 in Baku on Wednesday to win the Europa League final, but refused to commit his future to the club, saying: "You know very well that I love the Premier League, the level of the competition, and I am lucky because I am at Chelsea, one of the best teams in the best championship in the&nbsp;world.

"So at the moment I am happy, but of course I want to know if the club is happy, if we can improve.

"It's normal I think; I have a discussion with the owner after every season with every club."

Chelsea are facing a transfer ban next season which could restrict their ability to attract a big name coach.

The club have been linked with their former midfielder Frank Lampard, now the manager of Championship side Derby, should Sarri leave Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has told the club he wants to leave after a single season to join Italian champions Juventus, according to reports on Saturday. Sarri has been an uncomfortable fit with fans at Stamford Bridge and despite winning the Europa League this week and finishing third in the Premier League, there is a perception the chain-smoking coach is unwilling to adapt tactics when things go wrong.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has told the club he wants to leave after a single season to join Italian champions Juventus, according to reports on Saturday. Sarri has been an uncomfortable fit with fans at Stamford Bridge and despite winning the Europa League this week and finishing third in the Premier League, there is a perception the chain-smoking coach is unwilling to adapt tactics when things go wrong. Sarri has been widely linked with Juventus, who are seeking a successor to Massimiliano Allegri, although sports daily Gazzetta reported Saturday that Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino was also on their radar. Sarri held talks with Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia on Friday and informed her that he wanted to return to his homeland, the reports in Britain and Italy said. Granovskaia, it is said, has promised to talk to club owner Roman Abramovich about his future, but it would seem Chelsea will seek compensation from any suitor. Sarri succeeded Antonio Conte as Chelsea manager last summer after spending three years at Napoli. The 60-year-old enjoyed a tremendous start at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea went unbeaten in 18 games. But Sarri endured consistent criticism from a significant portion of the club's supporters throughout the campaign and suffered heavy 4-0 and 6-0 defeats at Bournemouth and Manchester City. Chelsea, however, reached the Carabao Cup final, which they lost on penalties to Manchester City, before finishing the season strongly. Sarri claimed the first major trophy of his career when Chelsea beat Arsenal 4-1 in Baku on Wednesday to win the Europa League final, but refused to commit his future to the club, saying: "You know very well that I love the Premier League, the level of the competition, and I am lucky because I am at Chelsea, one of the best teams in the best championship in the world. "So at the moment I am happy, but of course I want to know if the club is happy, if we can improve. "It's normal I think; I have a discussion with the owner after every season with every club." Chelsea are facing a transfer ban next season which could restrict their ability to attract a big name coach. The club have been linked with their former midfielder Frank Lampard, now the manager of Championship side Derby, should Sarri leave Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri close to Juventus switch

Inter Milan on Friday announced the appointment of former Italy manager Antonio Conte as coach with the ambition of returning to the top of world football.

The 49-year-old has signed a three-year contract worth nine million euros ($10 million) plus bonuses, according to press reports.

He replaces Luciano Spalletti who secured Chinese-owned Inter's <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenhams-danny-rose-never-imagined-reaching-champions-league-final-222555&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwji6Le8jcXiAhWBKY8KHexuCx0QFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1i4p9kDdLt_v-bXir-QeiQ">Champions League</a> berth for a second consecutive year on the final day of the Serie A season last Sunday.

With the 18-time Serie A champions searching for a first trophy since the Coppa Italia in 2011, Conte boasts a powerful pedigree.

He won the first three of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-hits-600th-club-goal-as-juventus-hold-inter-milan-214063&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjro9OjjcXiAhUGOSsKHXAXAO0QFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw36cyqJn4Rv9T9FPcv0_n5-">Juventus'</a> eight straight Serie A titles and the Premier League and FA Cup as Chelsea boss.

"A new chapter is opening in my life. I can't wait. I have chosen Inter because of the club it is, for its plans and ambition," Conte said.

Inter chairman Steve Wang added,&nbsp;"I am sure Antonio Conte is one of the best coaches.

"I am sure he will help us to reach our target ... to make this club one of the best in the world again," Wang said.

Conte had also been linked with a return to champions Juventus, after his successor in Turin Massimiliano Allegri was removed.

Spalletti took over at Inter in mid-2017 having previously coached Zenit Saint Petersburg and Roma.

But it proved a season of highs and lows with the club eliminated at the group stage of the Champions League in which they were drawn with Barcelona and Tottenham.

They fell in the last 16 of the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/chelse-lift-the-europa-league-cup-as-hazard-scores-twice-as-parting-gift-222736&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiCn73JjcXiAhVCVXwKHTz6ASsQFjAAegQIBhAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw1vVLJIMZd-I6NokNpgrrfP">Europa League</a>.

Inter snatched fourth place, equal on points with Atalanta, but behind the side from Bergamo on head-to-head difference, to edge city rivals AC Milan by just one point in the race for elite European football.

Inter announced Spalletti's departure on Thursday with Zhang paying tribute to the 60-year-old who paid for failing to lift any silverware.

"A coach, a teacher, a friend," Zhang wrote on Instagram with a photo of himself alongside Spalletti.

Inter Milan on Friday announced the appointment of former Italy manager Antonio Conte as coach with the ambition of returning to the top of world football. The 49-year-old has signed a three-year contract worth nine million euros ($10 million) plus bonuses, according to press reports.

Inter Milan on Friday announced the appointment of former Italy manager Antonio Conte as coach with the ambition of returning to the top of world football. The 49-year-old has signed a three-year contract worth nine million euros ($10 million) plus bonuses, according to press reports. He replaces Luciano Spalletti who secured Chinese-owned Inter's Champions League berth for a second consecutive year on the final day of the Serie A season last Sunday. With the 18-time Serie A champions searching for a first trophy since the Coppa Italia in 2011, Conte boasts a powerful pedigree. He won the first three of Juventus' eight straight Serie A titles and the Premier League and FA Cup as Chelsea boss. "A new chapter is opening in my life. I can't wait. I have chosen Inter because of the club it is, for its plans and ambition," Conte said. Inter chairman Steve Wang added, "I am sure Antonio Conte is one of the best coaches. "I am sure he will help us to reach our target ... to make this club one of the best in the world again," Wang said. Conte had also been linked with a return to champions Juventus, after his successor in Turin Massimiliano Allegri was removed. Spalletti took over at Inter in mid-2017 having previously coached Zenit Saint Petersburg and Roma. But it proved a season of highs and lows with the club eliminated at the group stage of the Champions League in which they were drawn with Barcelona and Tottenham. They fell in the last 16 of the Europa League. Inter snatched fourth place, equal on points with Atalanta, but behind the side from Bergamo on head-to-head difference, to edge city rivals AC Milan by just one point in the race for elite European football. Inter announced Spalletti's departure on Thursday with Zhang paying tribute to the 60-year-old who paid for failing to lift any silverware. "A coach, a teacher, a friend," Zhang wrote on Instagram with a photo of himself alongside Spalletti.

Inter Milan appoint Antonio Conte as new coach; Luciano Spalletti parts ways

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri, fresh from winning the first major title of his managerial career with a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-hazard-scores-twice-as-chelsea-thrash-arsenal-in-final-222607">4-1 win over Arsenal</a> in the Europa League final, said he was happy in his role, despite persistent speculation he is close to a return to Italy.

"You know very well that I love the Premier League, the level of the competition," Sarri told reporters.

"I am lucky because I am in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-its-a-goodbye-says-eden-hazard-after-winning-europa-league-for-chelsea-222654">Chelsea</a>, one of the best clubs in the Premier League, one of the best championships in the world," he said.

"So in the moment I am happy but of course I want to know if the club is happy if we can improve," Sarri added.

Sarri had secured Chelsea's place in next year's Champions League with a third-place finish in the Premier League before he led the Londoners to their third European title since 2012 in the Olympic Stadium in Baku.

But many fans made it clear they did not like the Italian's style after a run of poor performances in his first season at the helm, leading to reports the former Napoli manager was considering a return to Serie A.

Sarri, 60, said he would speak to top officials at Chelsea - who have made a habit of hiring and firing managers in quick succession - in the coming days.

"We need to know what the club can do for me. What I can do better for the club," he said.

"In a couple of days, we will decide. But I have a contract so at the moment we are talking about nothing," Sarri added.

Sarri also said he had urged his players to be bolder at halftime in the Europa League final, with the score at 0-0, after failing to make much of a dent in Arsenal in the first 45 minutes.

"At the end of the first half I asked my players to play with more courage," he said.

"We could risk losing but I wanted a team with more courage for moving the ball better and I think that the players did it very well in the second half," added

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri, fresh from winning the first major title of his managerial career with a 4-1 win over Arsenal in the Europa League final, said he was happy in his role, despite persistent speculation he is close to a return to Italy.

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri, fresh from winning the first major title of his managerial career with a 4-1 win over Arsenal in the Europa League final, said he was happy in his role, despite persistent speculation he is close to a return to Italy. "You know very well that I love the Premier League, the level of the competition," Sarri told reporters. "I am lucky because I am in Chelsea, one of the best clubs in the Premier League, one of the best championships in the world," he said. "So in the moment I am happy but of course I want to know if the club is happy if we can improve," Sarri added. Sarri had secured Chelsea's place in next year's Champions League with a third-place finish in the Premier League before he led the Londoners to their third European title since 2012 in the Olympic Stadium in Baku. But many fans made it clear they did not like the Italian's style after a run of poor performances in his first season at the helm, leading to reports the former Napoli manager was considering a return to Serie A. Sarri, 60, said he would speak to top officials at Chelsea - who have made a habit of hiring and firing managers in quick succession - in the coming days. "We need to know what the club can do for me. What I can do better for the club," he said. "In a couple of days, we will decide. But I have a contract so at the moment we are talking about nothing," Sarri added. Sarri also said he had urged his players to be bolder at halftime in the Europa League final, with the score at 0-0, after failing to make much of a dent in Arsenal in the first 45 minutes. "At the end of the first half I asked my players to play with more courage," he said. "We could risk losing but I wanted a team with more courage for moving the ball better and I think that the players did it very well in the second half," added

'Chelsea best in world': I am a lucky man to coach them, says Maurizio Sarri

Some players may need to leave Arsenal as Unai Emery continues to rebuild the squad the manager has said after they were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-hazard-scores-twice-as-chelsea-thrash-arsenal-in-final-222607">thrashed 4-1 by Chelsea</a> in the Europa League final in Baku.

Second-half goals from Olivier Giroud, Pedro and a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-its-a-goodbye-says-eden-hazard-after-winning-europa-league-for-chelsea-222654">double from Eden Hazard</a> ensured Arsenal failed to win their fourth successive European final.

Emery said his team, who finished fifth in the Premier League, were still very much in a "process" and he would evaluate his options over the summer.

"We need to speak with the club, speak with the players, and do one step more in our way," Emery said.

"But our idea is to continue carrying on improving with the young players who arrived last year,'' he said.

"Maybe some players need to leave, to take a new way. We are closer to the other teams. At the moment it's not enough, but we can continue with the same team next year. Other players will come in and help us get better in our capacity," Emery added.

The defeat means Arsenal failed to earn a spot in next season's Champions League for the third successive season, but Emery said another Europa League campaign would not put off potential targets joining the club.

"I think Arsenal is a big name in the football world, and a lot of players want to play here," Emery said.

"The transfers, I don't know for next year. But the club is working to improve and to take all we need to go our way. Also we have a lot of players with the possibility to improve," Emery added.

Emery, however, conceded that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-think-its-a-goodbye-says-eden-hazard-after-winning-europa-league-for-chelsea-222654">Chelsea </a>had deserved the victory.

"We tried to stay in the match but their second goal made it difficult for us. It was going better for them and when we wanted to do something, we couldn't find what we needed to score. They deserved to win," Emery said.

Some players may need to leave Arsenal as Unai Emery continues to rebuild the squad the manager has said after they were thrashed 4-1 by Chelsea in the Europa League final in Baku.

Some players may need to leave Arsenal as Unai Emery continues to rebuild the squad the manager has said after they were thrashed 4-1 by Chelsea in the Europa League final in Baku. Second-half goals from Olivier Giroud, Pedro and a double from Eden Hazard ensured Arsenal failed to win their fourth successive European final. Emery said his team, who finished fifth in the Premier League, were still very much in a "process" and he would evaluate his options over the summer. "We need to speak with the club, speak with the players, and do one step more in our way," Emery said. "But our idea is to continue carrying on improving with the young players who arrived last year,'' he said. "Maybe some players need to leave, to take a new way. We are closer to the other teams. At the moment it's not enough, but we can continue with the same team next year. Other players will come in and help us get better in our capacity," Emery added. The defeat means Arsenal failed to earn a spot in next season's Champions League for the third successive season, but Emery said another Europa League campaign would not put off potential targets joining the club. "I think Arsenal is a big name in the football world, and a lot of players want to play here," Emery said. "The transfers, I don't know for next year. But the club is working to improve and to take all we need to go our way. Also we have a lot of players with the possibility to improve," Emery added. Emery, however, conceded that Chelsea had deserved the victory. "We tried to stay in the match but their second goal made it difficult for us. It was going better for them and when we wanted to do something, we couldn't find what we needed to score. They deserved to win," Emery said.

Chelsea deserved to win, says Arsenal coach Unai Emery after Europa League final defeat

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