<p>Mario Gotze has been ruled out of Germany's squad for the upcoming edition of football World Cup.</p>

<p>Gotze scored the winner in the extra time of FIFA 2014 to seal Germany's fourth World Cup.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has been named in the squad, despite being out of action since September 2017 due to a foot injury.</p>

<p>Germany are in Group F with Mexico, Sweden and South Korea, and play their first match on Sunday, 17 June.</p>

<p>"Manuel is getting back into full training this week at Bayern Munich, that assures us that he can tolerate the full load in the training camp," said manager Joachim Low whose contract has been extended until 2022.</p>

<p>He further added, "Then we want to get a full idea, talk to him frankly and honestly, asking 'is it possible to play at the World Cup?'"</p>

<p>Here is the provisional squad list:</p>

<p><strong>Goalkeepers:</strong> Bernd Leno, Manuel Neuer, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Kevin Trapp</p>

<p><strong>Defenders:</strong> Jerome Boateng, Matthias Ginter, Jonas Hector, Mats Hummels, Joshua Kimmich, Marvin Plattenhardt, Antonio Rudiger, Niklas Sule, Jonathan Tah</p>

<p><strong>Midfielders:</strong> Julian Brandt, Julian Draxler, Leon Goretska, Ilkay Gundogan, Sami Khedira, Toni Kroos, Mesut Ozil, Sebastian Rudy, Leroy Sane</p>

<p><strong>Strikers:</strong> Mario Gomez, Thomas Muller, Nils Petersen, Marco Reus, Timo Werner</p>


Mario Gotze has been ruled out of Germany's squad for the upcoming edition of football World Cup

Mario Gotze has been ruled out of Germany's squad for the upcoming edition of football World Cup. Gotze scored the winner in the extra time of FIFA 2014 to seal Germany's fourth World Cup. On the other hand, Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has been named in the squad, despite being out of action since September 2017 due to a foot injury. Germany are in Group F with Mexico, Sweden and South Korea, and play their first match on Sunday, 17 June. "Manuel is getting back into full training this week at Bayern Munich, that assures us that he can tolerate the full load in the training camp," said manager Joachim Low whose contract has been extended until 2022. He further added, "Then we want to get a full idea, talk to him frankly and honestly, asking 'is it possible to play at the World Cup?'" Here is the provisional squad list: Goalkeepers: Bernd Leno, Manuel Neuer, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Kevin Trapp Defenders: Jerome Boateng, Matthias Ginter, Jonas Hector, Mats Hummels, Joshua Kimmich, Marvin Plattenhardt, Antonio Rudiger, Niklas Sule, Jonathan Tah Midfielders: Julian Brandt, Julian Draxler, Leon Goretska, Ilkay Gundogan, Sami Khedira, Toni Kroos, Mesut Ozil, Sebastian Rudy, Leroy Sane Strikers: Mario Gomez, Thomas Muller, Nils Petersen, Marco Reus, Timo Werner

Mario Gotze ruled out of Germany's squad for FIFA 2018

<p>When the World Cup is held aloft in July, it won't be an Italian lifting the trophy. The eliminated Azzurri will not brighten the tournament, but Italians will still make the cup shine.</p>

<p>The four-time winners' humiliating exit in November's playoff defeat to Sweden cast a pall over one of the world's proudest football nations.</p>

<p>Italy are not going to the World Cup, but the World Cup will come to Italy.</p>

<p>Every four years, in an anonymous building in an industrial town near Milan,&nbsp;amid the clouds of metal dust and sound of presses and hammers, an Italian company gets its hands on the World Cup trophy itself -- and gives it a makeover.&nbsp;</p>

<p>GDE Bertoni, a small business with 12 employees based in the Milanese suburb of Paderno Dugnano, designed and created the current cup in 1971 after Brazil kept the Jules Rimet trophy after they won the World Cup for the third time, and every four years it returned home for a spruce up.</p>

<p>"It's always a special feeling when the original trophy comes back to us, even if we see the replica every day," says Valentina Losa, director of the company her great-grandfather founded in 1938.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The trophy was made by the company's then-artistic director, sculptor Silvio Gazzaniga, helped by Valentina's father Giorgio, who suggested the globe at the top of the trophy.</p>

<p>"The original is the original. It's like the difference between seeing the original Mona Lisa or a copy. It's not the same feeling at all."</p>

<p><strong>"Amazing feeling"</strong></p>

<p>Standing in front of an autographed photo of Franz Beckenbauer, who in 1974 became the first captain to lift the new trophy, Losa recounts how her company bagged the contract.</p>

<p>"There were 53 proposals from all over the world, but we were the only ones to have made a model, a physical product," she says. "Having it in front of you, not just a drawing -- that plays."</p>

<p>Soon after every World Cup,&nbsp;FIFA&nbsp;sends the trophy, which is 38 centimetres long and contains more than six kilos of solid gold and malachite, home to be tended to.</p>

<p>"For four years it travels and is exposed to the elements. It's a little damaged, but we put it back into shape," says Pietro Brambilla, one of the Bertoni workshop's eight specialist workers.</p>

<p>Brambilla has no interest in football but something changes when he sees the World Cup winning captain lift the trophy.</p>

<p>"I always shed a tear at that moment because that trophy passed through my hands. It's an amazing feeling," he says.</p>

<p>"Not many people can say that they've held the World Cup."</p>

<p><strong>Coveted</strong></p>

<p>As well as making the original, Bortoni is&nbsp;also responsible for making a replica which the eventual winners of each tournament get to keep.</p>

<p>The replica is made from brass, after which is undergoes a range of treatments&nbsp;including milling and polishing before being bathed in 24-carat gold.</p>

<p>"We do this by eye. Once we see that she is beautiful, it comes out," says Ahmed Ait Siti Abdelkader, depositing a varnish that will keep the trophy shiny for about a decade.</p>

<p>"The World Cup is something different," he adds. "We make a lot of cups here, for Africa, the Gulf, Europe, Central America ... but this one has an extraordinary effect on you, different from all the others."</p>

<p>On July 15 Neymar, Lionel Messi, Hugo Lloris, Sergio Ramos or Manuel Neuer could be lifting the trophy rather than Italy captain Gianluigi Buffon, whose post-elimination tears captured a nation's heart in November. But a few months later it will come home again to an industrial corner of Italy for its regular once over.</p>

<p>"It's such a coveted trophy that when a team wins it, the players mess around with it and take advantage of it -- a bit too much," says Losa.</p>

<p>"Sometimes it comes back with a bit of work to do. Let's just say that in 2006 the Italians really partied."</p>


The eliminated Azzurri will not brighten the tournament, but Italians will still make the cup shine

When the World Cup is held aloft in July, it won't be an Italian lifting the trophy. The eliminated Azzurri will not brighten the tournament, but Italians will still make the cup shine. The four-time winners' humiliating exit in November's playoff defeat to Sweden cast a pall over one of the world's proudest football nations. Italy are not going to the World Cup, but the World Cup will come to Italy. Every four years, in an anonymous building in an industrial town near Milan, amid the clouds of metal dust and sound of presses and hammers, an Italian company gets its hands on the World Cup trophy itself -- and gives it a makeover. GDE Bertoni, a small business with 12 employees based in the Milanese suburb of Paderno Dugnano, designed and created the current cup in 1971 after Brazil kept the Jules Rimet trophy after they won the World Cup for the third time, and every four years it returned home for a spruce up. "It's always a special feeling when the original trophy comes back to us, even if we see the replica every day," says Valentina Losa, director of the company her great-grandfather founded in 1938. The trophy was made by the company's then-artistic director, sculptor Silvio Gazzaniga, helped by Valentina's father Giorgio, who suggested the globe at the top of the trophy. "The original is the original. It's like the difference between seeing the original Mona Lisa or a copy. It's not the same feeling at all." "Amazing feeling" Standing in front of an autographed photo of Franz Beckenbauer, who in 1974 became the first captain to lift the new trophy, Losa recounts how her company bagged the contract. "There were 53 proposals from all over the world, but we were the only ones to have made a model, a physical product," she says. "Having it in front of you, not just a drawing -- that plays." Soon after every World Cup, FIFA sends the trophy, which is 38 centimetres long and contains more than six kilos of solid gold and malachite, home to be tended to. "For four years it travels and is exposed to the elements. It's a little damaged, but we put it back into shape," says Pietro Brambilla, one of the Bertoni workshop's eight specialist workers. Brambilla has no interest in football but something changes when he sees the World Cup winning captain lift the trophy. "I always shed a tear at that moment because that trophy passed through my hands. It's an amazing feeling," he says. "Not many people can say that they've held the World Cup." Coveted As well as making the original, Bortoni is also responsible for making a replica which the eventual winners of each tournament get to keep. The replica is made from brass, after which is undergoes a range of treatments including milling and polishing before being bathed in 24-carat gold. "We do this by eye. Once we see that she is beautiful, it comes out," says Ahmed Ait Siti Abdelkader, depositing a varnish that will keep the trophy shiny for about a decade. "The World Cup is something different," he adds. "We make a lot of cups here, for Africa, the Gulf, Europe, Central America ... but this one has an extraordinary effect on you, different from all the others." On July 15 Neymar, Lionel Messi, Hugo Lloris, Sergio Ramos or Manuel Neuer could be lifting the trophy rather than Italy captain Gianluigi Buffon, whose post-elimination tears captured a nation's heart in November. But a few months later it will come home again to an industrial corner of Italy for its regular once over. "It's such a coveted trophy that when a team wins it, the players mess around with it and take advantage of it -- a bit too much," says Losa. "Sometimes it comes back with a bit of work to do. Let's just say that in 2006 the Italians really partied."

FIFA 2018: Italy not going to World Cup but World Cup comes to Italy

<h2>WION's pick of the week</h2>

<h5 title="Opinion: IPL 2018 - How Hyderabad under Kane Williamson is blossoming"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/opinion-ipl-2018--how-hyderabad-under-kane-williamson-is-blossoming-136143">Opinion: IPL 2018 - How Hyderabad under Kane Williamson is blossoming</a></strong></h5>

<p>42nd match of this year Indian Premier League, played between Hyderabad and Delhi at Firozshah Kotla Delhi on 10th May 2018 as one of the most special encounters this season</p>

<h5 title="Watch: Brendon Hartley suffers horrific crash in Spanish GP practice"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-brendon-hartley-suffers-horrific-crash-in-spanish-gp-practice-136397">Watch: Brendon Hartley suffers </a></strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-brendon-hartley-suffers-horrific-crash-in-spanish-gp-practice-136397"><strong>horrific</strong></a><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-brendon-hartley-suffers-horrific-crash-in-spanish-gp-practice-136397"> crash in Spanish GP practice</a></strong></h5>

<p>Brendon Hartley lost control of his Toro Rosso car at Turn Nine and smashed into the barriers during Practice Three for Spanish Grand Prix</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Will <a href="https://twitter.com/BrendonHartley?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BrendonHartley</a>'s car be ready for qualifying after this big shunt in FP3?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpanishGP?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpanishGP</a> ?? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZEGViMxJjS">pic.twitter.com/ZEGViMxJjS</a></p>
— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/995277552695439362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/petra-kvitova-clinches-madrid-open-title-136490">Petra Kvitova clinches Madrid Open title</a></strong></p>

<p>10th seed Petra Kvitova won the Madrid Open title for the third time</p>

<p><img alt="Petra Kvitova (2)_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/Petra%20Kvitova%20(2)_0.jpg" width="720" /></p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/caught-on-cam-ms-dhoni-threatens-ravindra-jadeja-in-ipl-match-against-hyderabad-136574">Caught on cam: MS Dhoni threatens Ravindra Jadeja in IPL match against Hyderabad</a></strong></p>

<p>A hilarious incident happened in the seventh over of the first innings when MS Dhoni gestured to throw on the face of Ravindra Jadeja</p>

<p><img alt="MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/MS%20Dhoni%20and%20Ravindra%20Jadeja.jpg" width="720" /></p>

<h5 title="In pics: Mohamed Salah clinches Premier League's Player of the Year prize"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics:-mohamed-salah-clinches-premier-league's-player-of-the-year-prize-136594">In pics: Mohamed Salah clinches Premier League's Player of the Year prize</a></strong></h5>

<h5 title="In pics: Mohamed Salah clinches Premier League's Player of the Year prize">Mohamed Salah scored 43 goals in 50 games in all competitions for Liverpool this term</h5>

<h5 title="Zverev outplays Thiem to win Madrid Masters"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/zverev-outplays-thiem-to-win-madrid-masters-136689">Zverev outplays Thiem to win Madrid Masters</a></strong></h5>

<h5 title="Zverev outplays Thiem to win Madrid Masters">Dominic Thiem lost to Alexander&nbsp;Zverev&nbsp;in the Madrid Masters final</h5>

<p><img alt="Alexander Zverev.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/Alexander%20Zverev.jpg" width="720" /></p>

<hr />
<hr />
<h2>FIFA 2018</h2>

<h5 title="FIFA 2018: All you need to know about 21st edition of football World Cup"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2018-all-you-need-to-know-about-21st-edition-of-football-world-cup-136657">FIFA 2018: All you need to know about 21st edition of football World Cup</a></strong></h5>

<h5 title="FIFA 2018: All you need to know about 21st edition of football World Cup">The mega event hosted by Russia will be keenly followed by thousands of fans around the world</h5>

<p title="Major blow to Brazil as Dani Alves ruled out of FIFA 2018"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/major-blow-to-brazil-as-dani-alves-ruled-out-of-fifa-2018-136210"><strong>Major</strong></a><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/major-blow-to-brazil-as-dani-alves-ruled-out-of-fifa-2018-136210"> blow to Brazil as Dani Alves ruled out of FIFA 2018</a></strong></strong></p>

<p title="Major blow to Brazil as Dani Alves ruled out of FIFA 2018">The Brazilian football federation (CBF) has confirmed it that Brazil right-back Dani Alves has been ruled out of the FIFA 2018 due to a knee injury</p>

<p><img alt="000_14S5UY.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/000_14S5UY.jpg" width="770" /></p>

<h5 title="Neymar Jr feels 'fear' ahead of his return for FIFA 2018"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-jr-feels-fear-ahead-of-his-return-for-fifa-2018-136331">Neymar Jr feels 'fear' ahead of his return for FIFA 2018</a></strong></h5>

<p>Brazil legend Zico's YouTube channel, Neymar said he is in a race against time to get mentally ready for the tournament in Russia</p>

<hr />
<hr />
<h2>Football</h2>

<h5 title="After 22 years Wenger leaves Arsenal, probably England too"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/after-22-years-wenger-leaves-arsenal-probably-england-too-136618">After 22 years Wenger leaves Arsenal, probably England too</a></strong></h5>

<p>When asked, Wenger said the prospect of him managing another Premier League club was unlikely</p>

<h5 title="Chelsea miss out on Champions League"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-miss-out-on-champions-league-136596">Chelsea miss out on Champions League</a></strong></h5>

<p>Chelsea were denied a place in next season's Champions League when they were well beaten 3-0 at Newcastle</p>

<h5 title="Mesut Ozil out with a back injury but expects to be fit for World Cup"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mesut-ozil-out-with-a-back-injury-but-expects-to-be-fit-for-world-cup-135393">Mesut Ozil out with a back injury but expects to be fit for World Cup</a></strong></h5>

<p>Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil is suffering back injury</p>

<h5 title="Chinese Super League club Chongqing Lifan denies Iniesta move"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/chinese-super-league-club-chongqing-lifan-denies-iniesta-move-135417">Chinese Super League club Chongqing Lifan denies Iniesta move</a></strong></h5>

<p>Chinese Super League giants Chongqing Dangdai Lifan have denied move for Andres Iniesta</p>

<h5 title="FIFA 2018: France defender Koscielny out with Achilles injury"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2018-france-defender-laurent-koscielny-out-with-achilles-injury-135483">FIFA 2018: France defender Koscielny out with Achilles injury</a></strong></h5>

<p>France defender Laurent Koscielny will miss the FIFA World Cup and faces six months out after undergoing surgery on an Achilles tendon injury</p>

<h5 title="Manuel Neuer ruled out of German Cup final, doubts over FIFA 2018"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manuel-neuer-ruled-out-of-german-cup-final-135744">Manuel Neuer ruled out of German Cup final, doubts over FIFA 2018</a></strong></h5>

<p>Manuel Neuer has been sidelined by a fractured foot since September and is running out of time to be fit for Germany's opening World Cup match against Mexico</p>

<h5 title="Sex, concentration and goals key to World Cup glory: Romario tells Jesus"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sex-concentration-and-goals-key-to-world-cup-glory-romario-tells-jesus-135971">Sex, concentration and goals key to World Cup glory: Romario tells Jesus</a></strong></h5>

<p>Gabriel Jesus may be apprehensive about next month’s World Cup</p>

<h5 title="Chelsea charged for referee confrontation"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-charged-for-referee-confrontation-136151">Chelsea charged for referee confrontation</a></strong></h5>

<p>The draw with Huddersfield dampened Chelsea's hopes of securing a top-four finish in the league this season</p>

<h5 title="Arda Turan gets 16-game ban for pushing and abusing referee"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/arda-turan-gets-16-game-ban-for-pushing-and-abusing-referee-136158">Arda Turan gets 16-game ban for pushing and abusing referee</a></strong></h5>

<p>Turkish football authorities on Thursday banned the country's best-known player&nbsp;Arda&nbsp;Turan</p>

<hr />
<hr />
<h2>Cricket</h2>

<h5 title="Ajinkya Rahane to lead India in Afghanistan Test, Karun Nair replaces Virat Kohli
"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-to-lead-india-in-afghanistan-test-karun-nair-replaces-virat-kohli-135553">Ajinkya Rahane to lead India in Afghanistan Test, Karun Nair replaces Virat Kohli</a></strong></h5>

<p>Rahane, however, he has been left out of the 16-man ODI squad for the three-match series in England in July</p>

<h5 title="Ambati Rayudu returns to India ODI squad after impressive performance in IPL 
  "><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ambati-rayudu-returns-to-india-odi-squad-after-impressive-performance-in-ipl----135555">Ambati Rayudu returns to India ODI squad after impressive performance in IPL</a></strong></h5>

<p>Virat Kohli will be leading the side</p>

<h5 title="Kohli confusion: BCCI names skipper for Ireland T20s despite county commitments"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-confusion-bcci-names-skipper-for-ireland-t20s-despite-county-commitments-135565">Kohli confusion: BCCI names skipper for Ireland T20s despite county commitments</a></strong></h5>

<p>India are set to play two T20's against Ireland in Dublin's Malahide on June 27 and 29</p>

<h5 title="Shoaib Malik wants to play until upcoming World T20"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-malik-wants-to-play-until-upcoming-world-t20-135690">Shoaib Malik wants to play until upcoming World T20</a></strong></h5>

<p>Malik played 35 tests for Pakistan and has represented the team in 261 one-day internationals and 95 Twenty20 matches</p>

<hr />
<hr />
<h2>Others</h2>

<h5 title="Serena Williams' French Open campaign in doubt after another withdrawal"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-french-open-campaign-in-doubt-after-another-withdrawal-135707">Serena Williams' French Open campaign in doubt after another withdrawal</a></strong></h5>

<p>The 36-year-old returned to action in March</p>

<h5 title="World Snooker Championship 2018: Mark Williams sealed third world snooker title"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/world-snooker-championship-2018-mark-williams-sealed-third-world-snooker-title-135421">World Snooker Championship 2018: Mark Williams sealed third world snooker title</a></strong></h5>

<p>Welshman secures third world championship with an 18-16 victory</p>

<h5 title="Watch: Comedy of errors as Inzamam-ul-Haq's nephew Imam gets his partner run out"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-inzamam-ul-haqs-nephew-imams-comedy-of-errors-get-his-partner-run-out-135507">Watch: Comedy of errors as Inzamam-ul-Haq's nephew Imam gets his partner run out</a></strong></h5>

<p>The dismissal gave everyone a sense of 'deja vu'. Inzamam was run out 40 times in his ODI career</p>


Weekly compilation of sports and other related news (May 7 to May 13)

WION's pick of the week Opinion: IPL 2018 - How Hyderabad under Kane Williamson is blossoming 42nd match of this year Indian Premier League, played between Hyderabad and Delhi at Firozshah Kotla Delhi on 10th May 2018 as one of the most special encounters this season Watch: Brendon Hartley suffers horrific crash in Spanish GP practice Brendon Hartley lost control of his Toro Rosso car at Turn Nine and smashed into the barriers during Practice Three for Spanish Grand Prix Will @BrendonHartley's car be ready for qualifying after this big shunt in FP3?#SpanishGP ?? #F1 pic.twitter.com/ZEGViMxJjS — Formula 1 (@F1) May 12, 2018 × Petra Kvitova clinches Madrid Open title 10th seed Petra Kvitova won the Madrid Open title for the third time Caught on cam: MS Dhoni threatens Ravindra Jadeja in IPL match against Hyderabad A hilarious incident happened in the seventh over of the first innings when MS Dhoni gestured to throw on the face of Ravindra Jadeja In pics: Mohamed Salah clinches Premier League's Player of the Year prize Mohamed Salah scored 43 goals in 50 games in all competitions for Liverpool this term Zverev outplays Thiem to win Madrid Masters Dominic Thiem lost to Alexander Zverev in the Madrid Masters final FIFA 2018 FIFA 2018: All you need to know about 21st edition of football World Cup The mega event hosted by Russia will be keenly followed by thousands of fans around the world Major blow to Brazil as Dani Alves ruled out of FIFA 2018 The Brazilian football federation (CBF) has confirmed it that Brazil right-back Dani Alves has been ruled out of the FIFA 2018 due to a knee injury Neymar Jr feels 'fear' ahead of his return for FIFA 2018 Brazil legend Zico's YouTube channel, Neymar said he is in a race against time to get mentally ready for the tournament in Russia Football After 22 years Wenger leaves Arsenal, probably England too When asked, Wenger said the prospect of him managing another Premier League club was unlikely Chelsea miss out on Champions League Chelsea were denied a place in next season's Champions League when they were well beaten 3-0 at Newcastle Mesut Ozil out with a back injury but expects to be fit for World Cup Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil is suffering back injury Chinese Super League club Chongqing Lifan denies Iniesta move Chinese Super League giants Chongqing Dangdai Lifan have denied move for Andres Iniesta FIFA 2018: France defender Koscielny out with Achilles injury France defender Laurent Koscielny will miss the FIFA World Cup and faces six months out after undergoing surgery on an Achilles tendon injury Manuel Neuer ruled out of German Cup final, doubts over FIFA 2018 Manuel Neuer has been sidelined by a fractured foot since September and is running out of time to be fit for Germany's opening World Cup match against Mexico Sex, concentration and goals key to World Cup glory: Romario tells Jesus Gabriel Jesus may be apprehensive about next month’s World Cup Chelsea charged for referee confrontation The draw with Huddersfield dampened Chelsea's hopes of securing a top-four finish in the league this season Arda Turan gets 16-game ban for pushing and abusing referee Turkish football authorities on Thursday banned the country's best-known player Arda Turan Cricket Ajinkya Rahane to lead India in Afghanistan Test, Karun Nair replaces Virat Kohli Rahane, however, he has been left out of the 16-man ODI squad for the three-match series in England in July Ambati Rayudu returns to India ODI squad after impressive performance in IPL Virat Kohli will be leading the side Kohli confusion: BCCI names skipper for Ireland T20s despite county commitments India are set to play two T20's against Ireland in Dublin's Malahide on June 27 and 29 Shoaib Malik wants to play until upcoming World T20 Malik played 35 tests for Pakistan and has represented the team in 261 one-day internationals and 95 Twenty20 matches Others Serena Williams' French Open campaign in doubt after another withdrawal The 36-year-old returned to action in March World Snooker Championship 2018: Mark Williams sealed third world snooker title Welshman secures third world championship with an 18-16 victory Watch: Comedy of errors as Inzamam-ul-Haq's nephew Imam gets his partner run out The dismissal gave everyone a sense of 'deja vu'. Inzamam was run out 40 times in his ODI career

WION Sports News: Top sports results this week

<p>Brazil's star striker Neymar admits "fear" ahead of his return for the World Cup after a lengthy layoff following surgery for a broken bone in his foot.</p>

<p>In an interview published Friday on former Brazil legend Zico's YouTube channel, Neymar said he is in a race against time to get mentally ready for the tournament in Russia.</p>

<p>"Everything's going well, thank God, but there's always this fear when you come back and I need to get rid of that fear as soon as possible to arrive at the World Cup," the 26-year-old, who has been out since the end of February, said.</p>

<p>The interview with Zico, a great from Brazil's 1980s team, took place last week, just before Neymar returned to France, where he is expected to restart training shortly with Paris Saint-Germain.</p>

<p>He still hopes to be completely rehabilitated by the June 14 start of the World Cup. Brazil's opening game is against Switzerland on June 17.</p>

<p>"The idea is that he can return to working on the field from next week provided that he responds favorably to tomorrow's test," Brazilian team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar told selected media, including AFP, in Paris.</p>

<p>Neymar said that at first his return to competitive levels was "complicated. I was always afraid of making complete movements and I'd end up compensating".</p>

<p>The star also lauded his PSG teammate Kylian Mbappe, who is just 19, as "the best in the world for his age".</p>

<p>"He's a phenomenon. I've already told (Brazil midfielder) Casemiro that he'll have to take care of him" if Brazil face France in Russia.</p>

<p>&nbsp</p>


In an interview published Friday on former Brazil legend Zico's YouTube channel, Neymar said he is in a race against time to get mentally ready for the tournament in Russia

Brazil's star striker Neymar admits "fear" ahead of his return for the World Cup after a lengthy layoff following surgery for a broken bone in his foot. In an interview published Friday on former Brazil legend Zico's YouTube channel, Neymar said he is in a race against time to get mentally ready for the tournament in Russia. "Everything's going well, thank God, but there's always this fear when you come back and I need to get rid of that fear as soon as possible to arrive at the World Cup," the 26-year-old, who has been out since the end of February, said. The interview with Zico, a great from Brazil's 1980s team, took place last week, just before Neymar returned to France, where he is expected to restart training shortly with Paris Saint-Germain. He still hopes to be completely rehabilitated by the June 14 start of the World Cup. Brazil's opening game is against Switzerland on June 17. "The idea is that he can return to working on the field from next week provided that he responds favorably to tomorrow's test," Brazilian team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar told selected media, including AFP, in Paris. Neymar said that at first his return to competitive levels was "complicated. I was always afraid of making complete movements and I'd end up compensating". The star also lauded his PSG teammate Kylian Mbappe, who is just 19, as "the best in the world for his age". "He's a phenomenon. I've already told (Brazil midfielder) Casemiro that he'll have to take care of him" if Brazil face France in Russia.

Neymar Jr feels 'fear' ahead of his return for FIFA 2018

<p>Paris Saint-Germain defender Dani Alves suffered a knee injury while playing Coupe de France final match and immediately attended by a team of doctors. Now, it is confirmed now that he won't be able to recover in time to make it to Russia.</p>

<p>The Brazilian football federation (CBF) has confirmed it that Brazil right-back Dani Alves has been ruled out of the FIFA 2018.</p>

<p>Dani Alves' ouster is a major blow to the Brazil team as Alves has been a key figure for upcoming football world cup.</p>

<p><img alt="000_14S5ZL_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/000_14S5ZL_0.jpg" width="770" /></p>

<p>Brazil coach, Tite have already been dealing with injuries of star player Neymar and defender Filipe Luis and now Dani Alves ouster is a big concern.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although, Brazil team are aiming for a sixth title, starts in Russia on June 14.</p>


The Brazilian football federation (CBF) has confirmed it that Brazil right-back Dani Alves has been ruled out of the FIFA 2018 due to a knee injury

Paris Saint-Germain defender Dani Alves suffered a knee injury while playing Coupe de France final match and immediately attended by a team of doctors. Now, it is confirmed now that he won't be able to recover in time to make it to Russia. The Brazilian football federation (CBF) has confirmed it that Brazil right-back Dani Alves has been ruled out of the FIFA 2018. Dani Alves' ouster is a major blow to the Brazil team as Alves has been a key figure for upcoming football world cup. Brazil coach, Tite have already been dealing with injuries of star player Neymar and defender Filipe Luis and now Dani Alves ouster is a big concern. Although, Brazil team are aiming for a sixth title, starts in Russia on June 14.

Major blow to Brazil as Dani Alves ruled out of FIFA 2018

<p>Injured Argentina striker Sergio Aguero is recovering well from knee surgery and will be ready for next month's World Cup in Russia, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said on Friday.</p>

<p>"He will get there fine," the Spaniard told reporters. "I can give you the latest news from doctor (Ramon) Cugat in Barcelona and it's going perfectly."</p>

<p>Aguero, 29, has scored 21 Premier League goals for runaway champions City this season but underwent an arthroscopy in mid-April.</p>

<p>Argentina play their opening World Cup match against Iceland on June 16.</p>

<p>Guardiola said Belgium international captain Vincent Kompany and England defender John Stones were fit and ready for Sunday's league game against Huddersfield Town after earlier injury problems.</p>

<p>"The main target for the players in the World Cup because the Premier League is done. But the best way to arrive at the World Cup is to play good in these three games," said the manager of the final Premier League matches.</p>


Sergio Aguero is recovering well from knee surgery and will be ready for next month's World Cup in Russia

Injured Argentina striker Sergio Aguero is recovering well from knee surgery and will be ready for next month's World Cup in Russia, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said on Friday. "He will get there fine," the Spaniard told reporters. "I can give you the latest news from doctor (Ramon) Cugat in Barcelona and it's going perfectly." Aguero, 29, has scored 21 Premier League goals for runaway champions City this season but underwent an arthroscopy in mid-April. Argentina play their opening World Cup match against Iceland on June 16. Guardiola said Belgium international captain Vincent Kompany and England defender John Stones were fit and ready for Sunday's league game against Huddersfield Town after earlier injury problems. "The main target for the players in the World Cup because the Premier League is done. But the best way to arrive at the World Cup is to play good in these three games," said the manager of the final Premier League matches.

Argentine striker Sergio Aguero will be fine for FIFA World Cup 2018: Pep Guardiola

<p>The 21st edition of football World Cup is scheduled to take place in Russia and the carnival will kick-off on June 14. The first match of FIFA 2018 will be played between Russia and Saudi Arabia at Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow.</p>

<p>FIFA 2014 is remembered for many reasons from Neymar's injury to the record created by German striker by Miroslav Klose. We also remember when Uruguay's Luis Suarez took a nibble from Giorgio Chiellini's shoulder.</p>

<p>One of the best moments when Germany produced a ruthless attacking display to destroy Portugal and open their World Cup campaign in style and Thomas Muller scored the first hat-trick of FIFA 2014.</p>

<p>The theme songs are one of the most remembered of all and fans and followers still groove to the beats of some popular theme songs like "Dar um Jeito" (We Will Find a Way) featuring Carlos Santana, Wyclef Jean and Avicii and "We are one" by Jennifer Lopez, Pitbull and Claudia Leitte.</p>

<p>The song "Colours" which is written by an American singer-songwriter Jason Derulo and the song is serving the purpose of anthem for FIFA 2018.</p>

<p>In an interview, Derulo said that he is honoured to provide the soundtrack for a tournament that celebrates the athletic excellence. He collaborated with Coca-Cola to produce the marvelous song.</p>

<p>Let's start the countdown of FIFA 2018 with the pulsating song. It's time to cheer for your country and flag, as the lyrics suggest,&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>"Here we go,Let's put on a show<br />
Hands up for your colours<br />
Represent your country<br />
Raise your flag<br />
Show your true colours."</em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


The song 'Colors' is written by an American singer-songwriter, Jason Derulo. The song is serving the purpose of anthem for FIFA 2018

The 21st edition of football World Cup is scheduled to take place in Russia and the carnival will kick-off on June 14. The first match of FIFA 2018 will be played between Russia and Saudi Arabia at Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow. FIFA 2014 is remembered for many reasons from Neymar's injury to the record created by German striker by Miroslav Klose. We also remember when Uruguay's Luis Suarez took a nibble from Giorgio Chiellini's shoulder. One of the best moments when Germany produced a ruthless attacking display to destroy Portugal and open their World Cup campaign in style and Thomas Muller scored the first hat-trick of FIFA 2014. The theme songs are one of the most remembered of all and fans and followers still groove to the beats of some popular theme songs like "Dar um Jeito" (We Will Find a Way) featuring Carlos Santana, Wyclef Jean and Avicii and "We are one" by Jennifer Lopez, Pitbull and Claudia Leitte. The song "Colours" which is written by an American singer-songwriter Jason Derulo and the song is serving the purpose of anthem for FIFA 2018. In an interview, Derulo said that he is honoured to provide the soundtrack for a tournament that celebrates the athletic excellence. He collaborated with Coca-Cola to produce the marvelous song. Let's start the countdown of FIFA 2018 with the pulsating song. It's time to cheer for your country and flag, as the lyrics suggest, "Here we go,Let's put on a show Hands up for your colours Represent your country Raise your flag Show your true colours." ×

'Hands up for your colours... raise your flag,' says FIFA 2018 anthem

<p>United States President Donald Trump has tweeted in support of the joint North American bid to host FIFA World Cup 2026. He said, "The U.S. has put together a STRONG bid w/ Canada & Mexico for the 2026 World Cup." Previously the US hosted football World Cup in 1994. For FIFA 2026, North American bid boasts large stadiums and excellent infrastructure.</p>

<p>Trump also issued a warning to the countries who might oppose the joint US-Canada-Mexico bid. Other than the North American joint bid, Morocco is the only strong rival which can stand against them.</p>

<p>On Thursday, Trump tweeted, "It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don’t support us (including at the United Nations)?"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The U.S. has put together a STRONG bid w/ Canada & Mexico for the 2026 World Cup. It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don’t support us (including at the United Nations)?</p>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/989650212380692480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>It is&nbsp;expected that Morocco might receive strong backing from FIFA's African and Middle East countries.</p>

<p>On June 13 in Moscow, The FIFA Congress will meet to select the 2026 host. A majority of the 207 voting FIFA members is needed to decide. Member countries might also&nbsp;pick neither bid, which would lead to the host process being reopened.</p>

<p>FIFA member countries receive one vote each, no matter their size, which gives disproportionate influence to small soccer nations.</p>

<p>FIFA 2026 will be the 23rd edition of football World Cup. The upcoming edition is scheduled to take place in June 2018 in Russia.</p>


Donald Trump also issued a warning to the countries who might oppose the joint US-Canada-Mexico bid to host football World Cup 2026

United States President Donald Trump has tweeted in support of the joint North American bid to host FIFA World Cup 2026. He said, "The U.S. has put together a STRONG bid w/ Canada & Mexico for the 2026 World Cup." Previously the US hosted football World Cup in 1994. For FIFA 2026, North American bid boasts large stadiums and excellent infrastructure. Trump also issued a warning to the countries who might oppose the joint US-Canada-Mexico bid. Other than the North American joint bid, Morocco is the only strong rival which can stand against them. On Thursday, Trump tweeted, "It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don’t support us (including at the United Nations)?" The U.S. has put together a STRONG bid w/ Canada & Mexico for the 2026 World Cup. It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don’t support us (including at the United Nations)? — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 26, 2018 × It is expected that Morocco might receive strong backing from FIFA's African and Middle East countries. On June 13 in Moscow, The FIFA Congress will meet to select the 2026 host. A majority of the 207 voting FIFA members is needed to decide. Member countries might also pick neither bid, which would lead to the host process being reopened. FIFA member countries receive one vote each, no matter their size, which gives disproportionate influence to small soccer nations. FIFA 2026 will be the 23rd edition of football World Cup. The upcoming edition is scheduled to take place in June 2018 in Russia.

Trump threatens countries who don't support North American joint bid for FIFA 2026

<p>The Swedish FA have officially confirmed that Zlatan Ibrahimovic will not be coming out of international retirement for FIFA World Cup 2018.</p>

<p>"I spoke to Zlatan on Tuesday, and he said that he hasn't changed his mind about the national team - it's a no," Lasse Richt, chief of staff for the national team, said in a statement.</p>

<p>There were speculations that Sweden's record goalscorer Ibrahimovic might overturn his decision and mark a comeback in the 21st football World Cup which is scheduled to take place in Russia.</p>

<p>Zlatan had retired in the year 2016 after the 2016 European Championships in France and been plagued by a knee injury for almost a year.</p>

<p>Recently he played brilliantly his debut match for MLS club Los Angeles Galaxy against Los Angeles FC and scored a stunner.</p>

<p>"Zlatan Ibrahimovic is in that case, for the same reason as with previous national team gatherings, not under consideration for the World Cup squad that national team coach Janne Andersson will announce on May 15," the statement went on.</p>

<p>Sweden booted out Italy to qualify for the World Cup and was placed on Group F campaign with South Korea, Germany and Mexico.</p>


The Swedish FA have officially confirmed that Zlatan Ibrahimovic will not be coming out of international retirement for FIFA World Cup 2018

The Swedish FA have officially confirmed that Zlatan Ibrahimovic will not be coming out of international retirement for FIFA World Cup 2018. "I spoke to Zlatan on Tuesday, and he said that he hasn't changed his mind about the national team - it's a no," Lasse Richt, chief of staff for the national team, said in a statement. There were speculations that Sweden's record goalscorer Ibrahimovic might overturn his decision and mark a comeback in the 21st football World Cup which is scheduled to take place in Russia. Zlatan had retired in the year 2016 after the 2016 European Championships in France and been plagued by a knee injury for almost a year. Recently he played brilliantly his debut match for MLS club Los Angeles Galaxy against Los Angeles FC and scored a stunner. "Zlatan Ibrahimovic is in that case, for the same reason as with previous national team gatherings, not under consideration for the World Cup squad that national team coach Janne Andersson will announce on May 15," the statement went on. Sweden booted out Italy to qualify for the World Cup and was placed on Group F campaign with South Korea, Germany and Mexico.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic wont play in FIFA 2018, says Swedish FA

<p>Defender Thiago Silva believes Brazil restored some pride in the famous shirt after a 1-0 friendly win over Germany in Berlin allowed his team to put their 2014 World Cup mauling behind them.</p>

<p>Gabriel Jesus' first-half goal at a sold-out Olympic Stadium on Tuesday saw Brazil end Germany's unbeaten run of 22 games dating back to their Euro 2016 semi-final defeat by hosts France.</p>

<p>"It was a matter of pride, after all that has been written and said," said Silva, who was suspended for the 7-1 rout in Belo Horizonte nearly four years ago.</p>

<p>"This jersey deserves a little more respect. That's why I'm overjoyed about winning against a big opponent."</p>

<p>The friendly victory gained a measure of revenge for five-time world champions Brazil, whose coach Tite had admitted are still haunted by the thrashing in the semi-finals of the last World Cup.</p>

<p>The 56-year-old, nicknamed 'The Professor', said his side had learnt the lesson and showed cool heads in chilly Berlin.</p>

<p>"You media has spoken a lot about this (7-1) result, the reality that it is over -- we simply played well here and we won," said Tite.</p>

<p>"We had no anger or hatred, you can't play well with emotions like that.</p>

<p>"We weren't trying to rebuild lost pride, we just wanted to put in a good performance.</p>

<p>"There are positive things to take from the game and the result, but we made a few mistakes, we gave away some possession and we lacked some width in our game."</p>

<p>Tite said he was pleased to see Brazil earn wins over Russia and now Germany in the last week without injured star forward Neymar.</p>

<p>"We are learning to play well without Neymar and that is part of our strength," said the Brazil boss.</p>

<p>Defending world champions Germany are now winless in their last four games after draws against England, France and Spain.</p>

<p>"We have lost the game, but we can live with it as we have four or five points which we need to intensively work on," said Germany head coach Joachim Loew.</p>

<p>"It was to be expected that Brazil, with their injured soul, played their best team and were highly motivated.</p>

<p>"It wasn't our day. We made too many mistakes, which allowed Brazil to grow in strength and confidence.</p>

<p>"We had a few young players, who will learn from this, but in addition, the body language was not right from some players."</p>

<p>There was some relief for Loew after Germany captain Jerome Boateng twisted ankle ligaments and had to come off in the second half.</p>

<p>"I don't think it's so bad and that nothing is torn," revealed Loew.</p>

<p>The Germany boss made seven changes from the team which started the 1-1 draw with Spain last Friday and included just two World Cup-winners.</p>

<p>Kroos felt some fringe players had blown their chance at a place in Germany's World Cup squad.</p>

<p>"There were a few players who had the chance to show what they could do, but didn't take it -- that's annoying," said the Real Madrid midfielder.</p>

<p>"We saw today that we aren't as good as we are made out to be and as some players believe.</p>

<p>"There is a lot of room for improvement."</p>


'This jersey deserves a little more respect. That's why I'm overjoyed about winning against a big opponent,' says Brazilian defender Thiago Silva

Defender Thiago Silva believes Brazil restored some pride in the famous shirt after a 1-0 friendly win over Germany in Berlin allowed his team to put their 2014 World Cup mauling behind them. Gabriel Jesus' first-half goal at a sold-out Olympic Stadium on Tuesday saw Brazil end Germany's unbeaten run of 22 games dating back to their Euro 2016 semi-final defeat by hosts France. "It was a matter of pride, after all that has been written and said," said Silva, who was suspended for the 7-1 rout in Belo Horizonte nearly four years ago. "This jersey deserves a little more respect. That's why I'm overjoyed about winning against a big opponent." The friendly victory gained a measure of revenge for five-time world champions Brazil, whose coach Tite had admitted are still haunted by the thrashing in the semi-finals of the last World Cup. The 56-year-old, nicknamed 'The Professor', said his side had learnt the lesson and showed cool heads in chilly Berlin. "You media has spoken a lot about this (7-1) result, the reality that it is over -- we simply played well here and we won," said Tite. "We had no anger or hatred, you can't play well with emotions like that. "We weren't trying to rebuild lost pride, we just wanted to put in a good performance. "There are positive things to take from the game and the result, but we made a few mistakes, we gave away some possession and we lacked some width in our game." Tite said he was pleased to see Brazil earn wins over Russia and now Germany in the last week without injured star forward Neymar. "We are learning to play well without Neymar and that is part of our strength," said the Brazil boss. Defending world champions Germany are now winless in their last four games after draws against England, France and Spain. "We have lost the game, but we can live with it as we have four or five points which we need to intensively work on," said Germany head coach Joachim Loew. "It was to be expected that Brazil, with their injured soul, played their best team and were highly motivated. "It wasn't our day. We made too many mistakes, which allowed Brazil to grow in strength and confidence. "We had a few young players, who will learn from this, but in addition, the body language was not right from some players." There was some relief for Loew after Germany captain Jerome Boateng twisted ankle ligaments and had to come off in the second half. "I don't think it's so bad and that nothing is torn," revealed Loew. The Germany boss made seven changes from the team which started the 1-1 draw with Spain last Friday and included just two World Cup-winners. Kroos felt some fringe players had blown their chance at a place in Germany's World Cup squad. "There were a few players who had the chance to show what they could do, but didn't take it -- that's annoying," said the Real Madrid midfielder. "We saw today that we aren't as good as we are made out to be and as some players believe. "There is a lot of room for improvement."

World Cup friendlies: Brazil restored pride by beating Germany

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sergio-aguero-suffers-injury-out-for-2-weeks-35439">Sergio Aguero</a> has been included in Argentina&#39;s squad for upcoming friendly matches against Italy and Spain even though the Manchester City striker is currently injured.</p>

<p>Aguero revealed at the weekend that he would be out for two weeks with a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sergio-aguero-suffers-injury-out-for-2-weeks-35439">knee injury</a>, meaning he will not feature for City again until after the international break.</p>

<p>It would also appear to make his presence doubtful for the matches against Spain on March 23 and Italy four days later.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">During yesterday&#39;s training I had a discomfort on my left knee. The club&#39;s doctors told me I&#39;ll be back with the team in approximately two weeks. Now it&#39;s time for a full recovery!</p>
&mdash; Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) <a href="https://twitter.com/aguerosergiokun/status/972859117726588928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Lionel Messi, who missed Barcelona&#39;s game at the weekend to attend the birth of his son, is also in the squad.</p>

<p>Argentina plays Italy at City&#39;s Etihad Stadium in Manchester before facing Spain at Atletico Madrid&#39;s Wanda Metropolitano stadium.</p>

<p><strong>Squad:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Goalkeepers</strong>: Sergio Romero (Manchester United/ENG), Nahuel Guzman (Tigres/MEX), Willy Caballero (Chelsea/ENG)</p>

<p><strong>Defenders</strong>: Federico Fazio (Roma/ITA), Ramiro Funes Mori (Everton/ENG), Marcos Rojo (Manchester United/ENG), Nicolas Taglafico (Ajax/NED), Gabriel Mercado (Sevilla/ESP), Nicolas Otamendi (Manchester City/ENG), Marcos Acuna (Sporting Lisbon/POR), Fabricio Bustos (Independiente)</p>

<p><strong>Midfielders</strong>: Eduardo Salvio (Benfica/POR), Ever Banega (Sevilla/ESP), &nbsp;Leandro Paredes (Zenit St Petersburg/RUS), Manuel Lanzini (West Ham/ENG), Javier Mascherano (Hebei Fortune/CHN), Giovani Lo Celso (Paris SG/FRA), Lucas Biglia (AC Milan/ITA), Angel Di Maria (Paris SG/FRA), Pablo Perez (Boca Juniors), Maximiliano Meza (Independiente)</p>

<p><strong>Forwards</strong>: Sergio Aguero (Manchester City/ENG), Lionel Messi (Barcelona/ESP), Gonzalo Higuain (Juventus/ITA), Diego Perotti (Roma/ITA), Cristian Pavon (Boca Juniors), Lautaro Martinez (Racing Club)</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Lionel Messi, who missed Barcelona's game at the weekend to attend the birth of his son, is also in the squad

Sergio Aguero has been included in Argentina's squad for upcoming friendly matches against Italy and Spain even though the Manchester City striker is currently injured. Aguero revealed at the weekend that he would be out for two weeks with a knee injury, meaning he will not feature for City again until after the international break. It would also appear to make his presence doubtful for the matches against Spain on March 23 and Italy four days later. During yesterday's training I had a discomfort on my left knee. The club's doctors told me I'll be back with the team in approximately two weeks. Now it's time for a full recovery! — Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) March 11, 2018 × Lionel Messi, who missed Barcelona's game at the weekend to attend the birth of his son, is also in the squad. Argentina plays Italy at City's Etihad Stadium in Manchester before facing Spain at Atletico Madrid's Wanda Metropolitano stadium. Squad: Goalkeepers: Sergio Romero (Manchester United/ENG), Nahuel Guzman (Tigres/MEX), Willy Caballero (Chelsea/ENG) Defenders: Federico Fazio (Roma/ITA), Ramiro Funes Mori (Everton/ENG), Marcos Rojo (Manchester United/ENG), Nicolas Taglafico (Ajax/NED), Gabriel Mercado (Sevilla/ESP), Nicolas Otamendi (Manchester City/ENG), Marcos Acuna (Sporting Lisbon/POR), Fabricio Bustos (Independiente) Midfielders: Eduardo Salvio (Benfica/POR), Ever Banega (Sevilla/ESP), Leandro Paredes (Zenit St Petersburg/RUS), Manuel Lanzini (West Ham/ENG), Javier Mascherano (Hebei Fortune/CHN), Giovani Lo Celso (Paris SG/FRA), Lucas Biglia (AC Milan/ITA), Angel Di Maria (Paris SG/FRA), Pablo Perez (Boca Juniors), Maximiliano Meza (Independiente) Forwards: Sergio Aguero (Manchester City/ENG), Lionel Messi (Barcelona/ESP), Gonzalo Higuain (Juventus/ITA), Diego Perotti (Roma/ITA), Cristian Pavon (Boca Juniors), Lautaro Martinez (Racing Club)

Sergio Aguero named in Argentina squad despite injury

<p>The 21st FIFA World Cup, a quadrennial international football tournament is scheduled to take place in Russia from 14 June to 15 July 2018.</p>

<p>Security was tight around the Kremlin&nbsp;on Friday&nbsp;(December 1) as the&nbsp;Russian capital prepared for the 2018 World Cup finals draw.</p>

<p>The draw is <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/fifa-world-cup-2018-the-journey-has-started-566">featuring 32 teams</a>&nbsp;and it will take on 1 December at 8:30 IST in Moscow.</p>

<p>The draw will be held in the concert hall at the State Kremlin Palace, which has a capacity of 6,000.</p>

<p>Former England forward Gary Lineker will conduct the Final Draw.</p>

<p>World Ranking has been used to allocate the qualified teams to the four pots according to their ranking in descending order, after hosts Russia, who take the top seeding spot.</p>

<p>The four pots will be emptied by drawing the eight teams they each contain one by one and placing them in the eight groups of four teams (Groups A to H).</p>

<p>Russia will occupy the top position in Group A as they are hosting the event, while the seven other seeds will occupy the top spots in Groups B to H.</p>

<p>Local soccer fans, asked about their expectations for the tournament, named high-ranking teams such as Argentina as opponents they would like to see for the&nbsp;Russian national team.</p>

<p>Russia&nbsp;is set to host the tournament in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/fifa-world-cup-2018-stadiums-are-gearing-up-for-the-big-event-572">12 venues spread across 11 cities</a> including Moscow, St Petersburg and Sochi.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The final draw for the 21st FIFA World Cup?will take on 1 December at 8:30 IST in Moscow

The 21st FIFA World Cup, a quadrennial international football tournament is scheduled to take place in Russia from 14 June to 15 July 2018. Security was tight around the Kremlin on Friday (December 1) as the Russian capital prepared for the 2018 World Cup finals draw. The draw is featuring 32 teams and it will take on 1 December at 8:30 IST in Moscow. The draw will be held in the concert hall at the State Kremlin Palace, which has a capacity of 6,000. Former England forward Gary Lineker will conduct the Final Draw. World Ranking has been used to allocate the qualified teams to the four pots according to their ranking in descending order, after hosts Russia, who take the top seeding spot. The four pots will be emptied by drawing the eight teams they each contain one by one and placing them in the eight groups of four teams (Groups A to H). Russia will occupy the top position in Group A as they are hosting the event, while the seven other seeds will occupy the top spots in Groups B to H. Local soccer fans, asked about their expectations for the tournament, named high-ranking teams such as Argentina as opponents they would like to see for the Russian national team. Russia is set to host the tournament in 12 venues spread across 11 cities including Moscow, St Petersburg and Sochi.

Watch: High security around Kremlin in Russia ahead of FIFA World Cup final draw

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