Villarreal edged out Manchester United in the final of the UEFA Europa League 2020-21 as the Yellow Submarine lifted the coveted trophy after winning a thrilling penalty shootout which ended 11-10. With scores locked at 1-1 after the regular 90 minutes and then extra-time, players had to brace for a penalty shootout in a bid to decide the winner of the match.<o:p></o:p>

Manchester United and Villarreal were brilliant in their spot-kicks as the first five successful penalties sent the game to sudden death. The players continue to smash the ball into the back of the net as both goalkeepers – David de Gea and Geronimo Rulli – failed to stop a single shot. While the Villarreal goalkeeper came close to stopping the ball from going inside the back of the net, soft hands mean the ball eventually crossed the line as the shootout continued. <o:p></o:p>

As the scores stood at 10-10 during the penalty shootout, both the goalkeepers stepped up to take their respective chances. Rulli hammered a goal to make the scoreline 11-10 and all eyes turned to De Gea. The Manchester United goalkeeper tried to place the ball in the bottom right corner only for Rulli to save it as Villarreal won the penalty shootout 11-10.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-villarreal-bask-in-special-triumph-as-emery-reveals-penalties-not-practiced-387678" hreflang="en">Football: Villarreal bask in 'special' triumph as Emery reveals penalties not practiced</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Europa League Final: Villareal vs Man Utd penalty shootout video</h2>

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Earlier in the match, in-form striker Gerard Moreno gave Villarreal a 1-0 lead after guiding the ball past De Gea after a delightful delivery by Dani Parejo. As Villarreal sat deep to defend the score, Edinson Cavani tapped in to change the score to 1-1.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-solskjaers-man-utd-rebuild-mission-laid-bare-by-europa-league-agony-387675" hreflang="en">Football: Solskjaer's Man Utd rebuild mission laid bare by Europa League agony</a><o:p></o:p>

With both sides failing to score any further goals in the match, the UEL final went into the penalty shootout. With the win, Villarreal lifted their first-ever European trophy and manager Unai Emery continued his terrific record in the Europa League.<o:p></o:p>

Villarreal edged out Manchester United in the final of the UEFA Europa League 2020-21 as the Yellow Submarine lifted the coveted trophy after winning a thrilling penalty shootout which ended 11-10.

Villarreal edged out Manchester United in the final of the UEFA Europa League 2020-21 as the Yellow Submarine lifted the coveted trophy after winning a thrilling penalty shootout which ended 11-10. With scores locked at 1-1 after the regular 90 minutes and then extra-time, players had to brace for a penalty shootout in a bid to decide the winner of the match. Manchester United and Villarreal were brilliant in their spot-kicks as the first five successful penalties sent the game to sudden death. The players continue to smash the ball into the back of the net as both goalkeepers – David de Gea and Geronimo Rulli – failed to stop a single shot. While the Villarreal goalkeeper came close to stopping the ball from going inside the back of the net, soft hands mean the ball eventually crossed the line as the shootout continued. As the scores stood at 10-10 during the penalty shootout, both the goalkeepers stepped up to take their respective chances. Rulli hammered a goal to make the scoreline 11-10 and all eyes turned to De Gea. The Manchester United goalkeeper tried to place the ball in the bottom right corner only for Rulli to save it as Villarreal won the penalty shootout 11-10. ALSO READ: Football: Villarreal bask in 'special' triumph as Emery reveals penalties not practiced Europa League Final: Villareal vs Man Utd penalty shootout video Villareal Vs Manchester United ||11_10|| Penalty Shootout EUL Finals pic.twitter.com/3ReAa0m433 — Sport News HD (@SportTuto) May 26, 2021 × Earlier in the match, in-form striker Gerard Moreno gave Villarreal a 1-0 lead after guiding the ball past De Gea after a delightful delivery by Dani Parejo. As Villarreal sat deep to defend the score, Edinson Cavani tapped in to change the score to 1-1. ALSO READ: Football: Solskjaer's Man Utd rebuild mission laid bare by Europa League agony With both sides failing to score any further goals in the match, the UEL final went into the penalty shootout. With the win, Villarreal lifted their first-ever European trophy and manager Unai Emery continued his terrific record in the Europa League.

Football: 22 kicks and 1 miss as Villarreal defeat Manchester United 11-10 in Europa League final shootout- Watch

He may shy away from the limelight, but there were few more popular members of France's 2018 World Cup-winning side than N'Golo Kante, who on Saturday will aim to get his hands on one of the few trophies that has so far evaded him when Chelsea face Manchester City in the Champions League final.

France supporters came up with a song for Kante during that triumphant summer in Russia, to the tune of the 1969 hit "Les Champs-Elysees" by Joe Dassin. As the song goes, "he is small, he is kind, he stopped Leo Messi".

It does take a ruthless streak to get to the very top in football as Kante has, winning two Premier League titles, the Europa League and the FA Cup as well as the World Cup.

Despite that, everyone who has encountered Kante since the start of his career in the Paris suburbs seems to agree there is no other player quite like the 30-year-old.

"Every time he comes back to Paris he comes to see us," Karim El-Moudkhil, Kante's former coach, tells AFP.

<h2>- Idolised -</h2>

"But he doesn't just stop by, he stays to eat with us, he agrees to have his photo taken with everyone, to play with the kids."

Kante, whose parents are of Malian origin, grew up in a large family on a quiet estate in Rueil-Malmaison, to the west of the French capital.

El-Moudkhil has endless anecdotes to tell as well as recent videos of Kante playing football with children in the neigbourhood who, not surprisingly, idolise him.

"In the summer, everyone comes out to play wearing the shirts of the teams he has played for: Caen, Leicester, Chelsea, France," says the coach.

Kante is widely liked and respected for his warmth and modesty, and as a player he has forged a reputation for being generous and discrete, with his on-pitch persona matching his personality off it.

"He has never become big-headed, he has never changed," says El-Moudkhil. "His brothers are the same. I would like to know how they have done it."

<h2>- Never angry -</h2>

When you ask his former coach if he can recall Kante getting angry during a game or showing any negative emotions, the question is met with an almost sorry response.

"I am trying to think of something but I honestly can't remember any. I have never seen him get angry as long as I have known him.

"And yet if anyone could have got angry it was him given the amount of times he used to get kicked while playing at Suresnes."

It was there, in a pleasant suburb by the Seine River, that Kante played as a youngster.&nbsp;

Unlike most modern-day superstars, Kante was never picked up by the youth academy of a professional club. He had talent, but his size and personality seemed to work against him.

"N'Golo is not somebody who tends to stand out, so at a trial he just wasn't visible," Pierre Ville, a director at Suresnes, told AFP in 2018.

His career did gradually take off as he moved to France's far north to sign for Boulogne-sur-Mer aged 19.

Soon he was playing for their first team in the third division, and he then joined Caen in 2013, helping them win promotion to Ligue 1.

After just one season in the French elite, Kante moved to Leicester aged 24 in 2015 and was one of the stars of their surge to the Premier League title in 2015/16.

He then left for Chelsea where he has continued to star, right up to being the man of the match in both legs of the Champions League semi-final win over Real Madrid.

"As soon as he signed for Boulogne-sur-Mer I knew his career was taking off," says El-Moudkhil.

There, on France's Channel coast, Kante left behind nothing but good memories.

"What was really striking was his desire to keep progressing. He was like a sponge, absorbing all the advice he got from his coaches," remembers Christophe Raymond, who coached Kante in the club's reserve team between 2010 and 2012.

"We sensed he had potential but it would be lying to say we thought he could go as far as he has."

It is a view shared by his old coach back in Rueil.

"He has come on so much. Over the last few years he has taken more and more risks, he gets forward more, and he is now one of the best players in the world."

He may shy away from the limelight, but there were few more popular members of France's 2018 World Cup-winning side than N'Golo Kante, who on Saturday will aim to get his hands on one of the few trophies that has so far evaded him when Chelsea face Manchester City in the Champions League final.

He may shy away from the limelight, but there were few more popular members of France's 2018 World Cup-winning side than N'Golo Kante, who on Saturday will aim to get his hands on one of the few trophies that has so far evaded him when Chelsea face Manchester City in the Champions League final. France supporters came up with a song for Kante during that triumphant summer in Russia, to the tune of the 1969 hit "Les Champs-Elysees" by Joe Dassin. As the song goes, "he is small, he is kind, he stopped Leo Messi". It does take a ruthless streak to get to the very top in football as Kante has, winning two Premier League titles, the Europa League and the FA Cup as well as the World Cup. Despite that, everyone who has encountered Kante since the start of his career in the Paris suburbs seems to agree there is no other player quite like the 30-year-old. "Every time he comes back to Paris he comes to see us," Karim El-Moudkhil, Kante's former coach, tells AFP. - Idolised - "But he doesn't just stop by, he stays to eat with us, he agrees to have his photo taken with everyone, to play with the kids." Kante, whose parents are of Malian origin, grew up in a large family on a quiet estate in Rueil-Malmaison, to the west of the French capital. El-Moudkhil has endless anecdotes to tell as well as recent videos of Kante playing football with children in the neigbourhood who, not surprisingly, idolise him. "In the summer, everyone comes out to play wearing the shirts of the teams he has played for: Caen, Leicester, Chelsea, France," says the coach. Kante is widely liked and respected for his warmth and modesty, and as a player he has forged a reputation for being generous and discrete, with his on-pitch persona matching his personality off it. "He has never become big-headed, he has never changed," says El-Moudkhil. "His brothers are the same. I would like to know how they have done it." - Never angry - When you ask his former coach if he can recall Kante getting angry during a game or showing any negative emotions, the question is met with an almost sorry response. "I am trying to think of something but I honestly can't remember any. I have never seen him get angry as long as I have known him. "And yet if anyone could have got angry it was him given the amount of times he used to get kicked while playing at Suresnes." It was there, in a pleasant suburb by the Seine River, that Kante played as a youngster. Unlike most modern-day superstars, Kante was never picked up by the youth academy of a professional club. He had talent, but his size and personality seemed to work against him. "N'Golo is not somebody who tends to stand out, so at a trial he just wasn't visible," Pierre Ville, a director at Suresnes, told AFP in 2018. His career did gradually take off as he moved to France's far north to sign for Boulogne-sur-Mer aged 19. Soon he was playing for their first team in the third division, and he then joined Caen in 2013, helping them win promotion to Ligue 1. After just one season in the French elite, Kante moved to Leicester aged 24 in 2015 and was one of the stars of their surge to the Premier League title in 2015/16. He then left for Chelsea where he has continued to star, right up to being the man of the match in both legs of the Champions League semi-final win over Real Madrid. "As soon as he signed for Boulogne-sur-Mer I knew his career was taking off," says El-Moudkhil. There, on France's Channel coast, Kante left behind nothing but good memories. "What was really striking was his desire to keep progressing. He was like a sponge, absorbing all the advice he got from his coaches," remembers Christophe Raymond, who coached Kante in the club's reserve team between 2010 and 2012. "We sensed he had potential but it would be lying to say we thought he could go as far as he has." It is a view shared by his old coach back in Rueil. "He has come on so much. Over the last few years he has taken more and more risks, he gets forward more, and he is now one of the best players in the world."

Football: N'Golo Kante, the quiet and unassuming superstar

Antonio Conte's future with Inter Milan is in doubt despite leading the club to the Serie A title for the first time in over a decade, according to reports in Italy on Wednesday.

"Inter-Conte, divorce!," headlined the daily Gazzetta Dello Sport, reporting that the "final farewell could arrive in the next 48 hours".

"Conte ready to break away," headlined Corriere Dello Sport.

The 51-year-old Italian still has a year left in his contract, but has been at loggerheads with the cash-strapped club's Chinese owners Suning over planned cost cutting which would prevent him building the team he wants to challenge at home and in Europe.

Inter registered losses of 100 million euros ($122 million) last season mainly due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Suning Group shut down their Chinese club Jiangsu FC in February months after it won the Chinese Super League title.

Five days ago, Inter secured a cash injection worth 275 million euros ($336 million) with US investment firm Oaktree, in the form of a loan reported to be over three years.

In this context, Suning wants to save as much as possible both on the purchase of new players and salaries, and possibly selling those with the highest value, an approach that Conte believes incompatible with the club's desire to play at the highest level in Europe.

The former Chelsea and Juventus boss took over in May 2019 on a three-year contract worth a reported 12 million euros ($14 million) a season.

His departure had also been heralded last summer after the club's Europa League final defeat to Sevilla, and finishing runners-up in the league to Juventus.

Conte had blamed the club's lack of investment on their failure to challenge in the Champions League in which they crashed out in the group stage in each of the last three seasons.

Antonio Conte's future with Inter Milan is in doubt despite leading the club to the Serie A title for the first time in over a decade, according to reports in Italy on Wednesday.

Antonio Conte's future with Inter Milan is in doubt despite leading the club to the Serie A title for the first time in over a decade, according to reports in Italy on Wednesday. "Inter-Conte, divorce!," headlined the daily Gazzetta Dello Sport, reporting that the "final farewell could arrive in the next 48 hours". "Conte ready to break away," headlined Corriere Dello Sport. The 51-year-old Italian still has a year left in his contract, but has been at loggerheads with the cash-strapped club's Chinese owners Suning over planned cost cutting which would prevent him building the team he wants to challenge at home and in Europe. Inter registered losses of 100 million euros ($122 million) last season mainly due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Suning Group shut down their Chinese club Jiangsu FC in February months after it won the Chinese Super League title. Five days ago, Inter secured a cash injection worth 275 million euros ($336 million) with US investment firm Oaktree, in the form of a loan reported to be over three years. In this context, Suning wants to save as much as possible both on the purchase of new players and salaries, and possibly selling those with the highest value, an approach that Conte believes incompatible with the club's desire to play at the highest level in Europe. The former Chelsea and Juventus boss took over in May 2019 on a three-year contract worth a reported 12 million euros ($14 million) a season. His departure had also been heralded last summer after the club's Europa League final defeat to Sevilla, and finishing runners-up in the league to Juventus. Conte had blamed the club's lack of investment on their failure to challenge in the Champions League in which they crashed out in the group stage in each of the last three seasons.

Football: Conte's Inter future uncertain amid clashes with Chinese owners - reports

Villarreal are looking towards Europe once again. Under the guidance of Unai Emery, the club from Spain’s eastern coast have put together one of the best seasons in their history. It’s worth remembering that Villarreal only made it to Spanish football’s top division for the first time in 1998 and they have grown and grown since then, bouncing back after a couple of relegations and aspiring to improve with each season.

For a team traditionally used to third-tier football to have reached these heights is an incredible achievement, and is to a great degree down to their excellent decision-making in the transfer market. Villarreal fans have enjoyed some of the best players in Spanish recent times; here are just five of the best.

Juan Román Riquelme, the genius (2003-07)

<img alt="Riquelme" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4d5a32d3-92f9-4763-ba21-59b0850a5de8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/riqu.JPG" />

The last number 10, as he is known in his native Argentine, Riquelme is the player who best sums up Villarreal’s rise. He arrived at the club in 2003 after not quite fitting in to a Barcelona side that opted instead to bring in Ronaldinho (a decision which didn’t turn out all bad…). At Villarreal, the playmaker won over the fans from the very first day thanks to his incredible technical ability, leading the team to the brink of a Champions League final, even if it was his missed penalty in the 2005/06 semi-finals against Arsenal which saw them fall just short. Despite that, Riquelme’s best seasons in European football were spent at Villarreal, where he won the Intertoto Cup, the club’s only international title to date.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-vs-villarreal-europa-league-final-four-key-players-to-watch-out-for-in-uel-showdown-387477" hreflang="en">Manchester United vs Villarreal, Europa League Final: Four key players to watch out for in UEL showdown</a>

Diego Forlán, the first ‘killer’&nbsp;(2004-07)

One year after Riquelme arrived at the Estadio de la Cerámica, he was joined by Forlán. The Uruguayan striker made Villarreal his new home following a tough first spell in Europe with Manchester United and become their second-top LaLiga Santander scorer of all time with 54 strikes over his three seasons in yellow, even pipping Samuel Eto’o to the&nbsp;Pichichi&nbsp;trophy in 2005. He was the first of the many excellent centre-forwards Villarreal have signed in recent times.

<img alt="Forlan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3068c162-dcac-4fc7-8c0f-19e064ee5504" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Forlan.JPG" />

Gerard Moreno, the latest star striker (2012-15, 2018-present)

The most recent of Villarreal’s quality strikers is Gerard Moreno, a player who arrived under the radar despite the fact he had been a regular goal scorer for RCD Espanyol for many years. Gerard actually came through the ranks at Villarreal, and following his spell at Espanyol returned ‘home’ with an inconsistent first campaign which saw him net just seven goals. 18 goals last season, however, and 23 this year have clearly demonstrated his talents. Only Lionel Messi scored more goals than Gerard in LaLiga Santander this season.

<img alt="Moreno" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6196a3ee-527a-417e-96f0-9441003cbc2c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Moreno.JPG" />

Pau Torres, the defensive colossus (2016-present)

During Villarreal’s years at the top level, they have always been a balanced team, focusing on building a strong defence as well as dangerous attacks. After enjoying the defensive efforts of Diego Godín, Marcos Senna and Bruno Soriano over the years, they now have academy graduate Pau Torres, currently considered one of the best centre-backs in the division and someone who Europe’s top clubs would love to have. He’ll be a key player for Spain at this summer’s European Championship too.

&nbsp;ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-solskjaer-confident-as-man-utd-villarreal-clash-in-europa-league-final-387444" hreflang="en">Football: Solskjaer 'confident' as Man Utd, Villarreal clash in Europa League final</a>

<img alt="Pau" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b2d0858f-89e5-4748-9c70-d6d6b6f58fce" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pau.JPG" />

Santi Cazorla, the most charismatic playmaker (2003-06, 2007-11, 2018-20)

It’s hard to think of a more loved player in club history than Cazorla, who spent three different stints at Villarreal. Brought in from Oviedo to the club’s youth setup when he was 19, he returned from a loan at Recreativo Huelva to become the team’s captain and one of the greatest legends ever seen at the Estadio de la Cerámica. Given his unmatchable technical ability, his untameable competitive spirit and his close relationship with the fanbase, Cazorla remains an unforgettable figure in the club’s satisfyingly successful recent history.&nbsp;

<img alt="Santi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="98acb199-97b5-4ffc-be56-8d5a1ab87916" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Santi.JPG" />

Villarreal are looking towards Europe once again. Under the guidance of Unai Emery, the club from Spain’s eastern coast have put together one of the best seasons in their history.

Villarreal are looking towards Europe once again. Under the guidance of Unai Emery, the club from Spain’s eastern coast have put together one of the best seasons in their history. It’s worth remembering that Villarreal only made it to Spanish football’s top division for the first time in 1998 and they have grown and grown since then, bouncing back after a couple of relegations and aspiring to improve with each season. For a team traditionally used to third-tier football to have reached these heights is an incredible achievement, and is to a great degree down to their excellent decision-making in the transfer market. Villarreal fans have enjoyed some of the best players in Spanish recent times; here are just five of the best. Juan Román Riquelme, the genius (2003-07) The last number 10, as he is known in his native Argentine, Riquelme is the player who best sums up Villarreal’s rise. He arrived at the club in 2003 after not quite fitting in to a Barcelona side that opted instead to bring in Ronaldinho (a decision which didn’t turn out all bad…). At Villarreal, the playmaker won over the fans from the very first day thanks to his incredible technical ability, leading the team to the brink of a Champions League final, even if it was his missed penalty in the 2005/06 semi-finals against Arsenal which saw them fall just short. Despite that, Riquelme’s best seasons in European football were spent at Villarreal, where he won the Intertoto Cup, the club’s only international title to date. ALSO READ: Manchester United vs Villarreal, Europa League Final: Four key players to watch out for in UEL showdown Diego Forlán, the first ‘killer’ (2004-07) One year after Riquelme arrived at the Estadio de la Cerámica, he was joined by Forlán. The Uruguayan striker made Villarreal his new home following a tough first spell in Europe with Manchester United and become their second-top LaLiga Santander scorer of all time with 54 strikes over his three seasons in yellow, even pipping Samuel Eto’o to the Pichichi trophy in 2005. He was the first of the many excellent centre-forwards Villarreal have signed in recent times. Gerard Moreno, the latest star striker (2012-15, 2018-present) The most recent of Villarreal’s quality strikers is Gerard Moreno, a player who arrived under the radar despite the fact he had been a regular goal scorer for RCD Espanyol for many years. Gerard actually came through the ranks at Villarreal, and following his spell at Espanyol returned ‘home’ with an inconsistent first campaign which saw him net just seven goals. 18 goals last season, however, and 23 this year have clearly demonstrated his talents. Only Lionel Messi scored more goals than Gerard in LaLiga Santander this season. Pau Torres, the defensive colossus (2016-present) During Villarreal’s years at the top level, they have always been a balanced team, focusing on building a strong defence as well as dangerous attacks. After enjoying the defensive efforts of Diego Godín, Marcos Senna and Bruno Soriano over the years, they now have academy graduate Pau Torres, currently considered one of the best centre-backs in the division and someone who Europe’s top clubs would love to have. He’ll be a key player for Spain at this summer’s European Championship too. ALSO READ: Football: Solskjaer 'confident' as Man Utd, Villarreal clash in Europa League final Santi Cazorla, the most charismatic playmaker (2003-06, 2007-11, 2018-20) It’s hard to think of a more loved player in club history than Cazorla, who spent three different stints at Villarreal. Brought in from Oviedo to the club’s youth setup when he was 19, he returned from a loan at Recreativo Huelva to become the team’s captain and one of the greatest legends ever seen at the Estadio de la Cerámica. Given his unmatchable technical ability, his untameable competitive spirit and his close relationship with the fanbase, Cazorla remains an unforgettable figure in the club’s satisfyingly successful recent history.

LaLiga Special: Five Villarreal CF stars of past and present as 'Yellow Submarine' eye Europa League glory

Manchester United are set to take on Villarreal in the final of the UEFA Europa League 2020-21 on Wednesday in Gdansk, Poland as the two teams battle for the coveted trophy.<o:p></o:p>

While Manchester United don’t have the best of records against Spanish teams, they defeated Real Sociedad this season. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer would want to finish the season on a high and lift his first trophy as Manchester United manager.<o:p></o:p>

Whereas Unai Emery would be desperate to prove his critics wrong and win the final against Manchester United after having a disastrous outing with his previous English club Arsenal. <o:p></o:p>

Ahead of the much-awaited UEL Final between Manchester United and Villarreal, let us take a look at four key players to watch out for in the match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-solskjaer-confident-as-man-utd-villarreal-clash-in-europa-league-final-387444" hreflang="en">Football: Solskjaer 'confident' as Man Utd, Villarreal clash in Europa League final</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Pau Torres – Villarreal<o:p></o:p></h2>

Pau Torres has enjoyed a magnificent season after forming a stunning partnership with Raul Albiol at the heart of the defense. With Manchester United boasting a supremely talented attacking unit, Torres would be crucial to Villarreal’s chances of lifting the cup. <o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Edinson Cavani – Manchester United<o:p></o:p></h2>

The 34-year-old Uruguayan continues to defy all the odds and have enjoyed a brilliant season in front of the game. While he wasn’t used much in the Premier League, Cavani has turned out to be among the first names in their Europa League campaign. Cavani has netted some crucial goals in the campaign and accumulated 16 goals and six assists in 38 matches for Red Devils.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/football-from-messi-to-lewandowski-single-season-top-scorers-in-europes-five-main-leagues-386876" hreflang="en">Football: From Messi to Lewandowski: Single season top-scorers in Europe's five main leagues</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Gerard Moreno – Villarreal<o:p></o:p></h2>

Moreno has been one of the most in-form strikers in world football. After netting 23 goals and providing seven assists in 33 LaLiga matches, Moreno will eye goals in the final showdown of the season. He has further scored six goals and three assists in the Europa League campaign and will be licking his lips against a Manchester United side missing their captain Harry Maguire. <o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Bruno Fernandes – Manchester United<o:p></o:p></h2>

The Portuguese midfielder is hailed as one of the best in the world and can be a game-changer for the Red Devils in the summit clash. He boasts the highest number of goals and assists in Europe’s top five leagues by a midfielder. Fernandes will be desperate to win a trophy with Manchester United after enjoying a cracking season.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Manchester United are set to take on Villarreal in the final of the UEFA Europa League 2020-21 on Wednesday in Gdansk, Poland as the two teams battle for the coveted trophy.

Manchester United are set to take on Villarreal in the final of the UEFA Europa League 2020-21 on Wednesday in Gdansk, Poland as the two teams battle for the coveted trophy. While Manchester United don’t have the best of records against Spanish teams, they defeated Real Sociedad this season. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer would want to finish the season on a high and lift his first trophy as Manchester United manager. Whereas Unai Emery would be desperate to prove his critics wrong and win the final against Manchester United after having a disastrous outing with his previous English club Arsenal. Ahead of the much-awaited UEL Final between Manchester United and Villarreal, let us take a look at four key players to watch out for in the match. ALSO READ: Football: Solskjaer 'confident' as Man Utd, Villarreal clash in Europa League final Pau Torres – Villarreal Pau Torres has enjoyed a magnificent season after forming a stunning partnership with Raul Albiol at the heart of the defense. With Manchester United boasting a supremely talented attacking unit, Torres would be crucial to Villarreal’s chances of lifting the cup. Edinson Cavani – Manchester United The 34-year-old Uruguayan continues to defy all the odds and have enjoyed a brilliant season in front of the game. While he wasn’t used much in the Premier League, Cavani has turned out to be among the first names in their Europa League campaign. Cavani has netted some crucial goals in the campaign and accumulated 16 goals and six assists in 38 matches for Red Devils. ALSO READ: Football: From Messi to Lewandowski: Single season top-scorers in Europe's five main leagues Gerard Moreno – Villarreal Moreno has been one of the most in-form strikers in world football. After netting 23 goals and providing seven assists in 33 LaLiga matches, Moreno will eye goals in the final showdown of the season. He has further scored six goals and three assists in the Europa League campaign and will be licking his lips against a Manchester United side missing their captain Harry Maguire. Bruno Fernandes – Manchester United The Portuguese midfielder is hailed as one of the best in the world and can be a game-changer for the Red Devils in the summit clash. He boasts the highest number of goals and assists in Europe’s top five leagues by a midfielder. Fernandes will be desperate to win a trophy with Manchester United after enjoying a cracking season.

Manchester United vs Villarreal, Europa League Final: Four key players to watch out for in UEL showdown

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the hero of one of Manchester United's greatest European nights, will aim to guide the club to a first title in four years Wednesday against a Villarreal side coached by Europa League specialist Unai Emery.

United's last trophy came in the 2016-17 Europa League under Jose Mourinho, when they beat Ajax 2-0 in Stockholm to become just the fifth club to win all three major UEFA competitions.

Defeat to Sevilla last season was the third of four semi-final losses for Solskjaer since replacing Mourinho in December 2018, but an 8-5 aggregate win over Roma finally broke the curse.

"These are big nights for us. It might be the stepping stone for something better to come, a bright future because this team is a young team," Solskjaer, who scored the winning goal in the 1999 Champions League final, said in Gdansk on Tuesday.

"It's a team that we've rebuilt over the last couple of years, so hopefully this is the start of something more.

"The players when they sign for Man United, they sign to win trophies.

"They accept the challenge of being the best because this is the best club in the world, so that's the pleasure of the pressure of Man United.

"That's something they are ready for because they wouldn't have signed here if they weren't top players."

United finished second to Manchester City in the Premier League and will go into the final as clear favourites against Villarreal, who came seventh in La Liga in Emery's first season.

Solskjaer has steered United to back-to-back top-three finishes for the first time since Alex Ferguson retired as champion in 2013.

"You can define a season tomorrow, we'll only go home happy if we win tomorrow," added the Norwegian, who is likely to be without captain Harry Maguire due to injury.

Eric Bailly could face his former club and fill in alongside Victor Lindelof at the back.

"These players are ready for this. I've seen in them something growing inside of them, more and more confident, robust and resilient to setbacks as a group. I'm confident we're ready for this."

Solskjaer said he will give Maguire as much time as possible to recover, but the England defender took no part in the final training session at Gdansk Stadium.

The United manager also has a decision to make in goal between David de Gea and Dean Henderson, who have split the eight Europa League games this term.

"It's always difficult to leave players out but it's throughout the whole season," said Solskjaer.

<h2>- Villarreal break down barriers -</h2>

Not only are Villarreal appearing in a first European final and seeking a first major trophy, but they have the added incentive of Champions League qualification at stake in Poland.&nbsp;

Villarreal spent much of their history in Spain's lower divisions before eventually reaching the top tier in 1998.

They had lost four previous European semi-finals before dumping out Arsenal in the last four, and&nbsp;are unbeaten on the continent this season, winning 12 of 14 matches.

Emery, a three-time Europa League winner with Sevilla between 2014 and 2016, said facing English opposition gave him no extra motivation despite a tricky 18-month spell with the Gunners.

"I have no thoughts of revenge against an English club or anyone else. All I do is to try and bring the best that Villarreal can achieve. It's a great club," said Emery, who also took Arsenal to the 2019 final, losing 4-1 to Chelsea in Baku.

"This competition has improved hugely and it's full of powerful teams of the top level who are desperate to win it and Villarreal has earned a place in that group."

Gerard Moreno's career-best 23 goals in La Liga this season put him level with Karim Benzema, with only Lionel Messi scoring more (30). The 29-year-old was one of two Villarreal players called up to Spain's Euro 2020 squad this week along with centre-back Pau Torres.

"For most of us this is our first European final and most important game of our careers so far. We're going to try and enjoy it," said Torres, who has been linked with a summer move to United.

Up to 9,500 spectators -- 25 percent of the stadium's roughly 40,000 capacity -- will be allowed to attend the final, with each finalist allocated 2,000 tickets.&nbsp;

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the hero of one of Manchester United's greatest European nights, will aim to guide the club to a first title in four years Wednesday against a Villarreal side coached by Europa League specialist Unai Emery.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the hero of one of Manchester United's greatest European nights, will aim to guide the club to a first title in four years Wednesday against a Villarreal side coached by Europa League specialist Unai Emery. United's last trophy came in the 2016-17 Europa League under Jose Mourinho, when they beat Ajax 2-0 in Stockholm to become just the fifth club to win all three major UEFA competitions. Defeat to Sevilla last season was the third of four semi-final losses for Solskjaer since replacing Mourinho in December 2018, but an 8-5 aggregate win over Roma finally broke the curse. "These are big nights for us. It might be the stepping stone for something better to come, a bright future because this team is a young team," Solskjaer, who scored the winning goal in the 1999 Champions League final, said in Gdansk on Tuesday. "It's a team that we've rebuilt over the last couple of years, so hopefully this is the start of something more. "The players when they sign for Man United, they sign to win trophies. "They accept the challenge of being the best because this is the best club in the world, so that's the pleasure of the pressure of Man United. "That's something they are ready for because they wouldn't have signed here if they weren't top players." United finished second to Manchester City in the Premier League and will go into the final as clear favourites against Villarreal, who came seventh in La Liga in Emery's first season. Solskjaer has steered United to back-to-back top-three finishes for the first time since Alex Ferguson retired as champion in 2013. "You can define a season tomorrow, we'll only go home happy if we win tomorrow," added the Norwegian, who is likely to be without captain Harry Maguire due to injury. Eric Bailly could face his former club and fill in alongside Victor Lindelof at the back. "These players are ready for this. I've seen in them something growing inside of them, more and more confident, robust and resilient to setbacks as a group. I'm confident we're ready for this." Solskjaer said he will give Maguire as much time as possible to recover, but the England defender took no part in the final training session at Gdansk Stadium. The United manager also has a decision to make in goal between David de Gea and Dean Henderson, who have split the eight Europa League games this term. "It's always difficult to leave players out but it's throughout the whole season," said Solskjaer. - Villarreal break down barriers - Not only are Villarreal appearing in a first European final and seeking a first major trophy, but they have the added incentive of Champions League qualification at stake in Poland. Villarreal spent much of their history in Spain's lower divisions before eventually reaching the top tier in 1998. They had lost four previous European semi-finals before dumping out Arsenal in the last four, and are unbeaten on the continent this season, winning 12 of 14 matches. Emery, a three-time Europa League winner with Sevilla between 2014 and 2016, said facing English opposition gave him no extra motivation despite a tricky 18-month spell with the Gunners. "I have no thoughts of revenge against an English club or anyone else. All I do is to try and bring the best that Villarreal can achieve. It's a great club," said Emery, who also took Arsenal to the 2019 final, losing 4-1 to Chelsea in Baku. "This competition has improved hugely and it's full of powerful teams of the top level who are desperate to win it and Villarreal has earned a place in that group." Gerard Moreno's career-best 23 goals in La Liga this season put him level with Karim Benzema, with only Lionel Messi scoring more (30). The 29-year-old was one of two Villarreal players called up to Spain's Euro 2020 squad this week along with centre-back Pau Torres. "For most of us this is our first European final and most important game of our careers so far. We're going to try and enjoy it," said Torres, who has been linked with a summer move to United. Up to 9,500 spectators -- 25 percent of the stadium's roughly 40,000 capacity -- will be allowed to attend the final, with each finalist allocated 2,000 tickets.

Football: Solskjaer 'confident' as Man Utd, Villarreal clash in Europa League final

Manchester City have at last reached the Champions League final after a decade of Abu Dhabi investment, but the global ambitions of the club's owners stretch far beyond England's northwest.

The English champions are the jewel in the crown of the City Football Group (CFG), a network of 10 clubs across five continents from Melbourne to Montevideo.

CFG's stated aim is to become the "first truly global football organisation", putting into place CEO Ferran Soriano's plans for the "Disneyfication" of the football industry.

Pep Guardiola's men can complete a treble if they beat Chelsea in Porto with a fourth consecutive League Cup and fifth Premier League title in 10 years already secured.

But it is not just in Manchester that CFG's investment and expertise is paying off on the pitch.

Formed just seven years ago, Mumbai City became champions of India for the first time this year, while Melbourne City finished top of the regular season table in the A-League.

In Europe, Troyes have been promoted to France's top tier and Girona are on course for a return to La Liga via Spain's second division playoffs.

But success for CFG is not measured purely on results.

"Every club owned by City Football Group has individual objectives because every team is different," Javi Noblega, Montevideo City Torque's business director, told AFP.

"You cannot ask of Montevideo City the same commercial objectives as New York."

The South American clubs, in the Uruguayan capital and Club Bolivar in Bolivia, are used as talent spotters and recruiters.

"The point of the infrastructure is to attract the best young talent in Uruguay and the wider region," added Noblega.

"We're working on other business models that can help us to achieve our objective, which is to attract young players to our academy, to get to the first team with Montevideo City and then sell them to other clubs within the City Football Group or other clubs."

Even if a player never makes the grade to be deemed good enough to grace the Etihad Stadium, player trading can be highly lucrative.

The £10 million ($14 million) sale of former Melbourne City midfielder Aaron Mooy to Huddersfield in 2017 reportedly earned CFG more than they paid to buy their stake in the Australian club.

<h2>- 'Learning from the best' -</h2>

By merging a global brand with interest in local markets, CFG aim grow City's commercial income to the level where they will not be dependent on Abu Dhabi investment to compete financially with traditional giants such as Manchester United, Real Madrid and Barcelona.

After CFG bought a stake in Nissan-controlled Yokohama Marinos in 2014, the Japanese car giant agreed a sponsorship deal with all CFG clubs.

"The investment is in every way. Obviously economically, which is very important, but (also) in know-how," said Noblega.

"The communication in the City Football Group is daily, not just in economic terms but in marketing, communication, in sponsorship, in other areas. It's an organisation that is managed very horizontally. We have contact with the most important people in the City Football Group in those areas.

"That makes us feel truly valued... we're learning from the best."

CFG's commercial growth has attracted outside investment. The China Media Capital consortium&nbsp;paid $400 million&nbsp;for a 13 percent stake in 2015 and private equity firm Silver Lake Partners purchased 10 percent for $500 million in 2019, placing a $4.8 billion valuation on the group.

Sheikh Mansour paid just £210 million to take control of the club from former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in 2008.

Back then, City were not even the big attraction in their own city, with the blue side of Manchester living in the shadow of United.

Come Saturday they could be champions of Europe for the first time with a worldwide fanbase grown from franchises in every corner of the globe.

Manchester City have at last reached the Champions League final after a decade of Abu Dhabi investment, but the global ambitions of the club's owners stretch far beyond England's northwest.

Manchester City have at last reached the Champions League final after a decade of Abu Dhabi investment, but the global ambitions of the club's owners stretch far beyond England's northwest. The English champions are the jewel in the crown of the City Football Group (CFG), a network of 10 clubs across five continents from Melbourne to Montevideo. CFG's stated aim is to become the "first truly global football organisation", putting into place CEO Ferran Soriano's plans for the "Disneyfication" of the football industry. Pep Guardiola's men can complete a treble if they beat Chelsea in Porto with a fourth consecutive League Cup and fifth Premier League title in 10 years already secured. But it is not just in Manchester that CFG's investment and expertise is paying off on the pitch. Formed just seven years ago, Mumbai City became champions of India for the first time this year, while Melbourne City finished top of the regular season table in the A-League. In Europe, Troyes have been promoted to France's top tier and Girona are on course for a return to La Liga via Spain's second division playoffs. But success for CFG is not measured purely on results. "Every club owned by City Football Group has individual objectives because every team is different," Javi Noblega, Montevideo City Torque's business director, told AFP. "You cannot ask of Montevideo City the same commercial objectives as New York." The South American clubs, in the Uruguayan capital and Club Bolivar in Bolivia, are used as talent spotters and recruiters. "The point of the infrastructure is to attract the best young talent in Uruguay and the wider region," added Noblega. "We're working on other business models that can help us to achieve our objective, which is to attract young players to our academy, to get to the first team with Montevideo City and then sell them to other clubs within the City Football Group or other clubs." Even if a player never makes the grade to be deemed good enough to grace the Etihad Stadium, player trading can be highly lucrative. The £10 million ($14 million) sale of former Melbourne City midfielder Aaron Mooy to Huddersfield in 2017 reportedly earned CFG more than they paid to buy their stake in the Australian club. - 'Learning from the best' - By merging a global brand with interest in local markets, CFG aim grow City's commercial income to the level where they will not be dependent on Abu Dhabi investment to compete financially with traditional giants such as Manchester United, Real Madrid and Barcelona. After CFG bought a stake in Nissan-controlled Yokohama Marinos in 2014, the Japanese car giant agreed a sponsorship deal with all CFG clubs. "The investment is in every way. Obviously economically, which is very important, but (also) in know-how," said Noblega. "The communication in the City Football Group is daily, not just in economic terms but in marketing, communication, in sponsorship, in other areas. It's an organisation that is managed very horizontally. We have contact with the most important people in the City Football Group in those areas. "That makes us feel truly valued... we're learning from the best." CFG's commercial growth has attracted outside investment. The China Media Capital consortium paid $400 million for a 13 percent stake in 2015 and private equity firm Silver Lake Partners purchased 10 percent for $500 million in 2019, placing a $4.8 billion valuation on the group. Sheikh Mansour paid just £210 million to take control of the club from former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in 2008. Back then, City were not even the big attraction in their own city, with the blue side of Manchester living in the shadow of United. Come Saturday they could be champions of Europe for the first time with a worldwide fanbase grown from franchises in every corner of the globe.

Football: From Manchester to Montevideo - City Football Group targets global domination

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema said he's targeting a trophy with France after he was recalled to their provisional Euro 2020 squad following a controversial, six-year international exile.

The prolific star, sidelined by Les Bleus since 2015 over his alleged role in a blackmail plot, missed out on France's 2018 World Cup win and their run to the Euro 2016 final on home soil.

Benzema, 33, told L'Equipe he was "proud" of his call-up, which followed talks with France coach Didier Deschamps earlier this month.

"I want to win a trophy with the French team," he said, adding that he hoped to "bring a little bit extra" to the World Cup-winners.

Benzema, who has 27 goals in 81 international appearances, was last week named as this season's best French foreign-based player by the country's players' association.

He top-scored for Real Madrid with 29 goals this term, passing 20 league goals in all three seasons since Cristiano Ronaldo left for Juventus in 2018.

Benzema has repeatedly criticised Deschamps and the French Football Federation for being dropped, citing racism as a factor in his axing from the Euro 2016 squad.

But he said those differences were in the past after his conversation with the coach.

"We said many things. Things that we needed to say for a long time. It was a good explanation, with important words," Benzema said.

He added: "I'm not coming to the French team to overshadow anyone or to take anyone's place. ... I am here to bring what I know."

France kick off their Euro 2020 campaign against three-time winners Germany in Munich on June 15, and also face Hungary and holders Portugal in Group F.

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema said he's targeting a trophy with France after he was recalled to their provisional Euro 2020 squad following a controversial, six-year international exile.

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema said he's targeting a trophy with France after he was recalled to their provisional Euro 2020 squad following a controversial, six-year international exile. The prolific star, sidelined by Les Bleus since 2015 over his alleged role in a blackmail plot, missed out on France's 2018 World Cup win and their run to the Euro 2016 final on home soil. Benzema, 33, told L'Equipe he was "proud" of his call-up, which followed talks with France coach Didier Deschamps earlier this month. "I want to win a trophy with the French team," he said, adding that he hoped to "bring a little bit extra" to the World Cup-winners. Benzema, who has 27 goals in 81 international appearances, was last week named as this season's best French foreign-based player by the country's players' association. He top-scored for Real Madrid with 29 goals this term, passing 20 league goals in all three seasons since Cristiano Ronaldo left for Juventus in 2018. Benzema has repeatedly criticised Deschamps and the French Football Federation for being dropped, citing racism as a factor in his axing from the Euro 2016 squad. But he said those differences were in the past after his conversation with the coach. "We said many things. Things that we needed to say for a long time. It was a good explanation, with important words," Benzema said. He added: "I'm not coming to the French team to overshadow anyone or to take anyone's place. ... I am here to bring what I know." France kick off their Euro 2020 campaign against three-time winners Germany in Munich on June 15, and also face Hungary and holders Portugal in Group F.

Football: 'I want a trophy' - Benzema eyes silverware after long France exile

Gareth Southgate on Tuesday announced a provisional 33-member squad for Euro 2020 as the England manager&nbsp;bought time to finalise the 26-man squad for the finals which start on June 11.<o:p></o:p>

Uncapped defenders Ben Godfrey and Ben White were named in the provisional England squad while the likes of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Eric Dier and Danny Ings missed out on a call-up.<o:p></o:p>

The England boss will hope to avoid further injuries, with 12 of the squad members involved in the European finals this week. While Manchester United take on Villarreal in the final of the Europa League, Manchester City and Chelsea lock horns in an all-English Champions League final on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>

Harry Maguire, Jordan Henderson found their place in the squad along with Kalvin Phillips and Trent Alexander-Arnold following speculations that the Liverpool right-back might miss out on the final squad despite return to form in the final weeks of the season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-cristiano-ronaldo-says-achieved-his-goal-at-juventus-387256" hreflang="en">Football: Cristiano Ronaldo says achieved his goal at Juventus</a>

<o:p></o:p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Ahead of naming his final <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EURO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EURO2020</a> squad next week, Gareth Southgate has selected 33 players to join up with the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThreeLions?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThreeLions</a> from this weekend as our preparations for this summer's tournament get under way.
— England (@England) <a href="https://twitter.com/England/status/1397160519316897793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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England face Austria on June 2 and Romania four days later in pre-tournament friendlies at Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium.<o:p></o:p>

The Three Lions begin their Euro 2020 campaign against Croatia on June 13 before facing Scotland and the Czech Republic in Group D.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-hansi-flick-named-new-germany-head-coach-to-succeed-joachim-loew-after-euro-2020-387259" hreflang="en">Football: Hansi Flick named new Germany head coach, to succeed Joachim Loew after Euro 2020</a><o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Provisional England squad for Euro 2020:<o:p></o:p></h2>

Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford (Everton), Dean Henderson (Manchester United), Sam Johnstone (West Brom), Aaron Ramsdale (Sheffield United)<o:p></o:p>

Defenders: Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire (Manchester United), Ben Chilwell, Reece James (Chelsea), John Stones, Kyle Walker (Manchester City), Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa), Conor Coady (Wolves) Kieran Trippier (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Ben Godfrey (Everton), Ben White (Brighton)<o:p></o:p>

Midfielders: Declan Rice, Jesse Lingard (West Ham), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Kalvin Phillips (Leeds), Mason Mount (Chelsea), Jude Bellingham (Borussia Dortmund/GER), James Ward-Prowse (Southampton)<o:p></o:p>

Forwards: Phil Foden, Raheem Sterling (Manchester City), Jack Grealish (Aston Villa), Harry Kane (Tottenham), Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood (Manchester United), Jadon Sancho (Borussia Dortmund/GER), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Everton), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)<o:p></o:p>

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Gareth Southgate on Tuesday announced a provisional 33-member squad for Euro 2020 as the England manager bought time to finalise the 26-man squad for the finals which start on June 11.

Gareth Southgate on Tuesday announced a provisional 33-member squad for Euro 2020 as the England manager bought time to finalise the 26-man squad for the finals which start on June 11. Uncapped defenders Ben Godfrey and Ben White were named in the provisional England squad while the likes of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Eric Dier and Danny Ings missed out on a call-up. The England boss will hope to avoid further injuries, with 12 of the squad members involved in the European finals this week. While Manchester United take on Villarreal in the final of the Europa League, Manchester City and Chelsea lock horns in an all-English Champions League final on Saturday. Harry Maguire, Jordan Henderson found their place in the squad along with Kalvin Phillips and Trent Alexander-Arnold following speculations that the Liverpool right-back might miss out on the final squad despite return to form in the final weeks of the season. ALSO READ: Football: Cristiano Ronaldo says achieved his goal at Juventus Ahead of naming his final #EURO2020 squad next week, Gareth Southgate has selected 33 players to join up with the #ThreeLions from this weekend as our preparations for this summer's tournament get under way. — England (@England) May 25, 2021 × England face Austria on June 2 and Romania four days later in pre-tournament friendlies at Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium. The Three Lions begin their Euro 2020 campaign against Croatia on June 13 before facing Scotland and the Czech Republic in Group D. ALSO READ: Football: Hansi Flick named new Germany head coach, to succeed Joachim Loew after Euro 2020 Provisional England squad for Euro 2020: Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford (Everton), Dean Henderson (Manchester United), Sam Johnstone (West Brom), Aaron Ramsdale (Sheffield United) Defenders: Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire (Manchester United), Ben Chilwell, Reece James (Chelsea), John Stones, Kyle Walker (Manchester City), Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa), Conor Coady (Wolves) Kieran Trippier (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Ben Godfrey (Everton), Ben White (Brighton) Midfielders: Declan Rice, Jesse Lingard (West Ham), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Kalvin Phillips (Leeds), Mason Mount (Chelsea), Jude Bellingham (Borussia Dortmund/GER), James Ward-Prowse (Southampton) Forwards: Phil Foden, Raheem Sterling (Manchester City), Jack Grealish (Aston Villa), Harry Kane (Tottenham), Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood (Manchester United), Jadon Sancho (Borussia Dortmund/GER), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Everton), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)

Football: Trent Alexander-Arnold included as England announced provisional squad for Euro 2020

UEFA on Tuesday announced that up to 16,500 spectators will be allowed to attend the UEFA Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea on Sunday in Porto. The ticket sales for the match opened on Tuesday.<o:p></o:p>

The figure allowed by the Portuguese authorities stands at one-third of the capacity of the Estadio do Dragao, which took over the hosting after Istanbul was ruled out due to COVID-19 issues.<o:p></o:p>

UEFA has already allocated as many as 6,000 tickets to each Chelsea and Man City. <o:p></o:p>

To this will be added the traditional invitations, as well as "1,700 tickets reserved for the general public" which "will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis".<o:p></o:p>

Tickets for the UCL final cost from 70 euros to 600 euros -- against a range of 40 to 130 euros for Wednesday's Europa League final in Gdansk between Manchester United and Villareal.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-luke-shaw-wants-manchester-united-to-strengthen-the-squad-in-the-transfer-window-387314" hreflang="en">Football: Luke Shaw wants Manchester United to strengthen the squad in the transfer window</a><o:p></o:p>

Spectators will “require proof of a negative Covid-19 test" to enter the stadium. Fans coming from abroad "will have to comply with border entry restrictions and requirements that will be in force". <o:p></o:p>

With Portugal being on the green list of British government, players or fans won’t have to quarantine upon returning home.<o:p></o:p>

However, the UK, as a host, was ruled out due to entry restrictions and quarantine protocols for the media, officials, and guests – which was deemed as unpractical.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-cristiano-ronaldo-says-achieved-his-goal-at-juventus-387256" hreflang="en">Football: Cristiano Ronaldo says achieved his goal at Juventus</a><o:p></o:p>

Portugal also hosted the "Final 8" in 2020 which allowed the Champions League to finish in the pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

UEFA on Tuesday announced that up to 16,500 spectators will be allowed to attend the UEFA Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea on Sunday in Porto.

UEFA on Tuesday announced that up to 16,500 spectators will be allowed to attend the UEFA Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea on Sunday in Porto. The ticket sales for the match opened on Tuesday. The figure allowed by the Portuguese authorities stands at one-third of the capacity of the Estadio do Dragao, which took over the hosting after Istanbul was ruled out due to COVID-19 issues. UEFA has already allocated as many as 6,000 tickets to each Chelsea and Man City. To this will be added the traditional invitations, as well as "1,700 tickets reserved for the general public" which "will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis". Tickets for the UCL final cost from 70 euros to 600 euros -- against a range of 40 to 130 euros for Wednesday's Europa League final in Gdansk between Manchester United and Villareal. ALSO READ: Football: Luke Shaw wants Manchester United to strengthen the squad in the transfer window Spectators will “require proof of a negative Covid-19 test" to enter the stadium. Fans coming from abroad "will have to comply with border entry restrictions and requirements that will be in force". With Portugal being on the green list of British government, players or fans won’t have to quarantine upon returning home. However, the UK, as a host, was ruled out due to entry restrictions and quarantine protocols for the media, officials, and guests – which was deemed as unpractical. ALSO READ: Football: Cristiano Ronaldo says achieved his goal at Juventus Portugal also hosted the "Final 8" in 2020 which allowed the Champions League to finish in the pandemic.

Football: 16,500 spectators allowed in Porto for UEFA Champions League final

Luke Shaw has urged his club Manchester United to make new signings in the transfer window in a bid to close the gap on their opponents at the top of the table and seek the title next season.&nbsp;

Manchester United's rivals Manchester City completed twelve points ahead of them in the Premier League this season and are relied upon to acquire more fortifications in the mid-year to defend their title next season.&nbsp;

Any semblance of Chelsea, who have been a power under Thomas Tuchel, and Liverpool are additionally expected to improve their squad for the 2021/22 Premier League crusade.&nbsp;

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has focused on the need to get fortifications in the summer to contend next season, and the left-back is by all accounts repeating his manager's point.&nbsp;

"With the squad, we've got, it's so talented. We've got a brilliant mix of experienced ones and younger ones but even the younger ones have played so many times now they've got that experience. The manager was speaking the other day that he would like one or two more signings. I think that we would all welcome that with open arms.

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Anything that would make our squad better, increase our chances of getting to that next level, will always be good for the team," Luke Shaw said.&nbsp;

Manchester United's choice to acquire Alex Telles from FC Porto the previous summer ended up being a decent one. The appearance of the 28-year-old Brazilian has pushed Luke Shaw to a higher level. The Englishman has been apparently the best left-back in the country this season.&nbsp;

The 25-year-old recognizes that contending with Alex Telles for the left-back spot has carried the best with regards to him. Luke Shaw needs the club to acquire more players to build contests for places across the pitch.&nbsp;

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"You only have to look at how competition has pushed me, but if we can get that around the whole place in different positions, I think we can continue to keep pushing each other and it's only good for the manager to have that sort of competition and hard choices on who to pick. That's what we need to improve on." 
&nbsp;

Luke Shaw has urged his club Manchester United to make new signings in the transfer window in a bid to close the gap on their opponents at the top of the table and seek the title next season.

Luke Shaw has urged his club Manchester United to make new signings in the transfer window in a bid to close the gap on their opponents at the top of the table and seek the title next season. Manchester United's rivals Manchester City completed twelve points ahead of them in the Premier League this season and are relied upon to acquire more fortifications in the mid-year to defend their title next season. Any semblance of Chelsea, who have been a power under Thomas Tuchel, and Liverpool are additionally expected to improve their squad for the 2021/22 Premier League crusade. Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has focused on the need to get fortifications in the summer to contend next season, and the left-back is by all accounts repeating his manager's point. "With the squad, we've got, it's so talented. We've got a brilliant mix of experienced ones and younger ones but even the younger ones have played so many times now they've got that experience. The manager was speaking the other day that he would like one or two more signings. I think that we would all welcome that with open arms. ALSO READ: Football: Cristiano Ronaldo says achieved his goal at Juventus Anything that would make our squad better, increase our chances of getting to that next level, will always be good for the team," Luke Shaw said. Manchester United's choice to acquire Alex Telles from FC Porto the previous summer ended up being a decent one. The appearance of the 28-year-old Brazilian has pushed Luke Shaw to a higher level. The Englishman has been apparently the best left-back in the country this season. The 25-year-old recognizes that contending with Alex Telles for the left-back spot has carried the best with regards to him. Luke Shaw needs the club to acquire more players to build contests for places across the pitch. ALSO READ: Football: From Messi to Lewandowski: Single season top-scorers in Europe's five main leagues "You only have to look at how competition has pushed me, but if we can get that around the whole place in different positions, I think we can continue to keep pushing each other and it's only good for the manager to have that sort of competition and hard choices on who to pick. That's what we need to improve on."

Football: Luke Shaw wants Manchester United to strengthen the squad in the transfer window

Former Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick signed a two-year contract on Tuesday, May 25&nbsp;to take over Germany after the end of the European Championship this summer, the German&nbsp;Football&nbsp;Association DFB&nbsp;said.

He will succeed current coach Joachim Loew, with whom he won the World Cup as an assistant in 2014. Flick worked with Loew from when he was appointed Germany coach in 2006 until 2014 when Flick became Germany's sporting director.

"Everything happened surprisingly quickly for me and I am happy to be national team coach from the autumn," Flick, who was the frontrunner for the post, said in a statement.

Flick led Bayern to six titles in the 2019/2020 season and also won this season's Bundesliga crown but decided to leave the champions after 18 months in charge.

Loew, who had a contract until 2022, led Germany to the World Cup title in 2014 with Flick as his assistant, and also won the 2017 Confederations Cup. But his team crashed out in the first round in the 2018 World Cup and has been struggling to perform at the highest level despite an overhaul.

A 6-0 thrashing by Spain in the Nations League in November was Germany's worst defeat in competitive&nbsp;football.

Germany will host the European Championship in 2024.

Former Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick signed a two-year contract on Tuesday, May 25 to take over Germany after the end of the European Championship this summer, the German Football Association DFB said.

Former Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick signed a two-year contract on Tuesday, May 25 to take over Germany after the end of the European Championship this summer, the German Football Association DFB said. He will succeed current coach Joachim Loew, with whom he won the World Cup as an assistant in 2014. Flick worked with Loew from when he was appointed Germany coach in 2006 until 2014 when Flick became Germany's sporting director. "Everything happened surprisingly quickly for me and I am happy to be national team coach from the autumn," Flick, who was the frontrunner for the post, said in a statement. Flick led Bayern to six titles in the 2019/2020 season and also won this season's Bundesliga crown but decided to leave the champions after 18 months in charge. Loew, who had a contract until 2022, led Germany to the World Cup title in 2014 with Flick as his assistant, and also won the 2017 Confederations Cup. But his team crashed out in the first round in the 2018 World Cup and has been struggling to perform at the highest level despite an overhaul. A 6-0 thrashing by Spain in the Nations League in November was Germany's worst defeat in competitive football. Germany will host the European Championship in 2024.

Football: Former Bayern Munich coach Hansi Flick takes over Germany to 2024

Outgoing Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick will succeed his former boss Joachim Loew in the Germany squad after the Euro 2020, the German FA (DFB) announced on Tuesday.<o:p></o:p>

Flick expressed his delight in penning the contract as he said he is “very happy” to become the head coach of the Germany football team. Flick was an assistant to current head coach Loew at Euro 2008 and 2012 while also being a part of the Germany camp that won the FIFA World Cup 2014 in Brazil. The outgoing Bayern Munich manager has signed a three-year deal through to 2024.<o:p></o:p>

"It's all gone surprisingly quickly, but I am very happy to be Germany coach from the autumn," said Flick, 56, after signing a three-year contract to succeed Loew, who will leave the job after 15 years in charge later this year.<o:p></o:p>

The 56-year-old guided Bayern Munich to six major titles during his tenure at the Allianz Arena. Notably, Loew will be stepping down from the national team post after the conclusion of Euro 2020 – bringing an end to his 15-year-stay with the Die Mannschaft.

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"I'm really looking forward to it because I can see the great quality of the players, especially the young players in Germany. That's is why we have every reason to approach the upcoming tournaments with optimism, for example, the European Championship at home in 2024.<o:p></o:p>

"In addition, I know from experience of working with [DFB National Teams and Academy director] Oliver Bierhoff that I have a strong, trustworthy partner by my side and who will behind the scenes so that the team, we trainers and staff can get started without a long start-up time,” Flick added.<o:p></o:p>

Flick went on to pass on his best wishes to Loew and his team for the European championship, set to commence in June as he said that the German boss deserved a big end to his career as national coach.

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"I am also looking forward to contributing my ideas and ideas beyond the national team to the academy and the other national teams. <o:p></o:p>

"The important thing now is not what will happen in September - I will contact you in detail in August - but the upcoming European Championship, for which I wish Jogi Löw, Marcus Sorg, Andy Köpke and the team the greatest possible success. <o:p></o:p>

"Jogi Löw has more than deserved a big end to his career as national coach."<o:p></o:p>

Outgoing Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick will succeed his former boss Joachim Loew in the Germany squad after the Euro 2020, the German FA (DFB) announced on Tuesday.

Outgoing Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick will succeed his former boss Joachim Loew in the Germany squad after the Euro 2020, the German FA (DFB) announced on Tuesday. Flick expressed his delight in penning the contract as he said he is “very happy” to become the head coach of the Germany football team. Flick was an assistant to current head coach Loew at Euro 2008 and 2012 while also being a part of the Germany camp that won the FIFA World Cup 2014 in Brazil. The outgoing Bayern Munich manager has signed a three-year deal through to 2024. "It's all gone surprisingly quickly, but I am very happy to be Germany coach from the autumn," said Flick, 56, after signing a three-year contract to succeed Loew, who will leave the job after 15 years in charge later this year. The 56-year-old guided Bayern Munich to six major titles during his tenure at the Allianz Arena. Notably, Loew will be stepping down from the national team post after the conclusion of Euro 2020 – bringing an end to his 15-year-stay with the Die Mannschaft. ALSO READ: Football: Pep Guardiola wins LMA Manager of the Year "I'm really looking forward to it because I can see the great quality of the players, especially the young players in Germany. That's is why we have every reason to approach the upcoming tournaments with optimism, for example, the European Championship at home in 2024. "In addition, I know from experience of working with [DFB National Teams and Academy director] Oliver Bierhoff that I have a strong, trustworthy partner by my side and who will behind the scenes so that the team, we trainers and staff can get started without a long start-up time,” Flick added. Flick went on to pass on his best wishes to Loew and his team for the European championship, set to commence in June as he said that the German boss deserved a big end to his career as national coach. ALSO READ: Football: 'I want a trophy' - Benzema eyes silverware after long France exile "I am also looking forward to contributing my ideas and ideas beyond the national team to the academy and the other national teams. "The important thing now is not what will happen in September - I will contact you in detail in August - but the upcoming European Championship, for which I wish Jogi Löw, Marcus Sorg, Andy Köpke and the team the greatest possible success. "Jogi Löw has more than deserved a big end to his career as national coach."

Football: Hansi Flick named new Germany head coach, to succeed Joachim Loew after Euro 2020

Pep Guardiola has been named Manager of the Year by the League Manager’s Association. Adapting to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Guardiola guided Manchester City to a third Premier League title in four seasons and a fourth consecutive League Cup.

On Saturday, Guardiola and his players will compete in a first Champions League final in the Club’s history. Voted for by fellow managers, it is the second time the City boss has been awarded the prize, having previously done so in recognition of the 2017/18 Centurions season.

Pep Guardiola: “I am delighted to win this award for the second time, but an award like this is only possible if a manager is surrounded by top professionals. “My players have been fantastic – their dedication and professionalism never waver, even in a season that has been the most challenging we have ever faced.

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“And my staff are also deserving of the highest praise. I am so lucky to have a team of people who give everything they have every single day to make sure Manchester City are the best we can be. “This award is dedicated to and shared with them.”

Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “Pep deserves this award, absolutely. To win the Premier League and Carabao Cup, as well as reach the final Champions League final, in the most trying season we’ve ever seen, says everything about his quality as a manager.

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“He has shown an outstanding ability to constantly innovate. With the challenges presented by COVID-19, he’s had to adapt to a new way of working. He’s done it brilliantly and our results say everything you need to know. “And it isn’t just the results - the way we have played has been fantastic. The style of football is exactly what we want from a Manchester City team.”

Pep Guardiola has been named Manager of the Year by the League Manager’s Association. Adapting to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Guardiola guided Manchester City to a third Premier League title in four seasons and a fourth consecutive League Cup.

Pep Guardiola has been named Manager of the Year by the League Manager’s Association. Adapting to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Guardiola guided Manchester City to a third Premier League title in four seasons and a fourth consecutive League Cup. On Saturday, Guardiola and his players will compete in a first Champions League final in the Club’s history. Voted for by fellow managers, it is the second time the City boss has been awarded the prize, having previously done so in recognition of the 2017/18 Centurions season. Pep Guardiola: “I am delighted to win this award for the second time, but an award like this is only possible if a manager is surrounded by top professionals. “My players have been fantastic – their dedication and professionalism never waver, even in a season that has been the most challenging we have ever faced. ALSO READ: Football: From Manchester to Montevideo - City Football Group targets global domination “And my staff are also deserving of the highest praise. I am so lucky to have a team of people who give everything they have every single day to make sure Manchester City are the best we can be. “This award is dedicated to and shared with them.” Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “Pep deserves this award, absolutely. To win the Premier League and Carabao Cup, as well as reach the final Champions League final, in the most trying season we’ve ever seen, says everything about his quality as a manager. ALSO READ: 'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win “He has shown an outstanding ability to constantly innovate. With the challenges presented by COVID-19, he’s had to adapt to a new way of working. He’s done it brilliantly and our results say everything you need to know. “And it isn’t just the results - the way we have played has been fantastic. The style of football is exactly what we want from a Manchester City team.”

Football: Pep Guardiola wins LMA Manager of the Year

Liverpool and Chelsea seized the final two Champions League places in a dramatic end to the Premier League season on Sunday, leaving Leicester heartbroken for the second consecutive campaign.

With Manchester City already guaranteed a third title in four years and Manchester United certain to finish second, the focus was on the battle for the remaining two places in the top four.

Heading into the 38th and last round of fixtures, just one point separated Chelsea in third place from Leicester in fifth.

Two Sadio Mane goals gave Liverpool a 2-0 win at home to Crystal Palace, while Thomas Tuchel's Chelsea were indebted to a late Leicester collapse against Tottenham at the King Power Stadium.

Chelsea lost 2-1 at Aston Villa but were saved by the 4-2 defeat for Brendan Rodgers' FA Cup winners.

Liverpool had to celebrate the club's first league triumph for 30 years in an empty stadium last season and their Premier League title defence was blown off course by a series of injuries to key players.

But they avoided the financial hit of missing out on Europe's top club competition by finding their form in the final months of the season, winning eight of their last 10 games to finish third.

"Outstanding, best I could've dreamt of -- we wanted this feeling, this game, this atmosphere," Jurgen Klopp told the BBC after the win in front of 10,000 fans.

"Finishing the season in third is incredible, I can't believe it -- credit to the boys. I can't believe how it worked out in the last few weeks, incredible."

Chelsea were on the brink of missing out on a top-four finish, trailing at Villa Park as goals from Bertrand Traore and Anwar El Ghazi put the home side 2-0 up.

Ben Chilwell pulled a goal back, but in the end Chelsea were saved by the Leicester result to finish fourth, meaning they can now focus on next weekend's Champions League final against Manchester City knowing they are in the competition next season.

Tuchel admitted Chelsea had been "lucky" to qualify.

"We had enough chances," he said. "We did not score, conceded two cheap goals and it was a defeat in the end. We are lucky to escape today."

<h2>- Leicester pain -</h2>

Leicester were left to dwell on another agonising near-miss, just a week after winning the FA Cup for the first time in their history.&nbsp;

The Foxes, forced to settle for a Europa League spot, also missed out on the top four on the final day of last season when they were beaten by Manchester United.

Leicester ended with more days in the Premier League's top four than any other side this season, adding to their sense of frustration.

They appeared to be on the brink of a stunning end to their campaign as two Jamie Vardy penalties saw them lead 2-1 with 16 minutes to go, but a Kasper Schmeichel own goal and two late Gareth Bale strikes completed a turnaround for Spurs.

Harry Kane was also on the scoresheet in potentially his final match for Spurs to win his third Golden Boot award.&nbsp;

The England captain finished one ahead of Liverpool's Mohamed Salah on 23 goals and also picked up the prize for most assists in the season with 14.

"It's hugely disappointing for us," said Rodgers. "We fought so hard all season. I always said you're judged after 38 games and unfortunately we couldn't quite make it."

West Ham secured a Europa League spot by beating Southampton 3-0 while Fulham, West Brom and Sheffield United had already been relegated.

Tottenham finished seventh to take a Europa Conference League spot.

<h2>- Aguero signs off in style -</h2>

Sergio Aguero scored two goals on his final home appearance for Manchester City in their 5-0 romp against Everton after coming on as a second-half substitute.

Pep Guardiola's side, who finished 12 points ahead of Manchester United, celebrated with the Premier League trophy after the match.

The club also paid tribute to Aguero, whose 184 Premier League goals are the most by any player for a single club.

"When I came here the first title for me was the most important, for the club and for me, then Man City started to win more titles so I'm so happy because it's not easy to be 10 years at one club, for me it's an honour," he told Sky Sports.

Liverpool and Chelsea seized the final two Champions League places in a dramatic end to the Premier League season on Sunday, leaving Leicester heartbroken for the second consecutive campaign.

Liverpool and Chelsea seized the final two Champions League places in a dramatic end to the Premier League season on Sunday, leaving Leicester heartbroken for the second consecutive campaign. With Manchester City already guaranteed a third title in four years and Manchester United certain to finish second, the focus was on the battle for the remaining two places in the top four. Heading into the 38th and last round of fixtures, just one point separated Chelsea in third place from Leicester in fifth. Two Sadio Mane goals gave Liverpool a 2-0 win at home to Crystal Palace, while Thomas Tuchel's Chelsea were indebted to a late Leicester collapse against Tottenham at the King Power Stadium. Chelsea lost 2-1 at Aston Villa but were saved by the 4-2 defeat for Brendan Rodgers' FA Cup winners. Liverpool had to celebrate the club's first league triumph for 30 years in an empty stadium last season and their Premier League title defence was blown off course by a series of injuries to key players. But they avoided the financial hit of missing out on Europe's top club competition by finding their form in the final months of the season, winning eight of their last 10 games to finish third. "Outstanding, best I could've dreamt of -- we wanted this feeling, this game, this atmosphere," Jurgen Klopp told the BBC after the win in front of 10,000 fans. "Finishing the season in third is incredible, I can't believe it -- credit to the boys. I can't believe how it worked out in the last few weeks, incredible." Chelsea were on the brink of missing out on a top-four finish, trailing at Villa Park as goals from Bertrand Traore and Anwar El Ghazi put the home side 2-0 up. Ben Chilwell pulled a goal back, but in the end Chelsea were saved by the Leicester result to finish fourth, meaning they can now focus on next weekend's Champions League final against Manchester City knowing they are in the competition next season. Tuchel admitted Chelsea had been "lucky" to qualify. "We had enough chances," he said. "We did not score, conceded two cheap goals and it was a defeat in the end. We are lucky to escape today." - Leicester pain - Leicester were left to dwell on another agonising near-miss, just a week after winning the FA Cup for the first time in their history. The Foxes, forced to settle for a Europa League spot, also missed out on the top four on the final day of last season when they were beaten by Manchester United. Leicester ended with more days in the Premier League's top four than any other side this season, adding to their sense of frustration. They appeared to be on the brink of a stunning end to their campaign as two Jamie Vardy penalties saw them lead 2-1 with 16 minutes to go, but a Kasper Schmeichel own goal and two late Gareth Bale strikes completed a turnaround for Spurs. Harry Kane was also on the scoresheet in potentially his final match for Spurs to win his third Golden Boot award. The England captain finished one ahead of Liverpool's Mohamed Salah on 23 goals and also picked up the prize for most assists in the season with 14. "It's hugely disappointing for us," said Rodgers. "We fought so hard all season. I always said you're judged after 38 games and unfortunately we couldn't quite make it." West Ham secured a Europa League spot by beating Southampton 3-0 while Fulham, West Brom and Sheffield United had already been relegated. Tottenham finished seventh to take a Europa Conference League spot. - Aguero signs off in style - Sergio Aguero scored two goals on his final home appearance for Manchester City in their 5-0 romp against Everton after coming on as a second-half substitute. Pep Guardiola's side, who finished 12 points ahead of Manchester United, celebrated with the Premier League trophy after the match. The club also paid tribute to Aguero, whose 184 Premier League goals are the most by any player for a single club. "When I came here the first title for me was the most important, for the club and for me, then Man City started to win more titles so I'm so happy because it's not easy to be 10 years at one club, for me it's an honour," he told Sky Sports.

Football: Liverpool and Chelsea seal Champions League places in last-day drama

In the final analysis it is tempting to put the outcome of the French title race down to Paris Saint-Germain's shortcomings, but nothing should be taken away from Lille's remarkable achievement in winning Ligue 1 for the first time in a decade.

PSG, despite boasting the two most expensive signings ever in Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, did suffer eight defeats, their most in a single campaign since 2010-11.

Yet somebody still needed to take advantage of the Qatar-owned club's slip-ups and Lille did that emphatically. They also took four points off PSG, including beating them in Paris.

"We have only lost three games. Maybe PSG have not been as good but Lille have been great," said winger Jonathan Bamba.

<h2>- The architects -</h2>

Lille's success is partly down to circumstance, and partly down to two inspirational figures.

The coach, Christophe Galtier, took over a sinking ship from Marcelo Bielsa midway through the 2017-18 season.

Lille just avoided relegation and then finished second to PSG in his first full season. They were fourth when last season was ended early because of the coronavirus pandemic, and now they are champions.

Galtier's success is all the more remarkable given that the club has regularly sold its best players.

In 2018 midfielder Yves Bissouma was sold to Brighton. In 2019 they sold star forward Nicolas Pepe to Arsenal for 80 million euros ($97m), Rafael Leao to AC Milan and midfielder Thiago Mendes to Lyon.

Last year top scorer Victor Osimhen left for Napoli for 70 million euros, while Brazilian centre-back Gabriel joined Arsenal for 30 million.

Yet Galtier has brilliantly incorporated replacements and hugely enhanced a reputation that was already glowing following his record in eight years at Saint-Etienne.

But the one-time Portsmouth assistant manager's success would not have been possible without Luis Campos, the Portuguese super-scout who built the Monaco team that denied PSG the title in 2017.

He was also the genius behind the scenes at Lille, the man who made it possible for them to sell Pepe and Mendes in 2019 and replace them with Osimhen and Renato Sanches.

Last year he replaced Gabriel with young Dutch defender Sven Botman while replacing Osimhen with Canadian striker Jonathan David and signing veteran Turkish striker Burak Yilmaz.&nbsp;

'King Burak' has been an absolute superstar.

Fittingly, both men were on target in Sunday's title-clinching 2-1 win at Angers.

Campos, though, left Monaco a year before their title triumph and his relationship with Lille ended midway through this season too.

After 2017, that Monaco team was gradually broken up. When the title celebrations among Lille supporters die down, they might worry for the future too.

Their current team was only not pillaged even more last summer because of the financial impact on Europe's leading clubs of the pandemic.

This time Lille will lose more players, goalkeeper Mike Maignan and midfielder Boubakary Soumare probably among them, but Campos will not be there to sign replacements.

<h2>- New owners, new direction? -</h2>

Galtier's achievements are even more remarkable given Lille went through considerable off-field turmoil in the winter.

It was not just Campos who left but also the club's owner, Luxembourgish-Spanish businessman Gerard Lopez, who under financial pressure sold Lille in December to a subsidiary of the Merlyn Partners investment fund.

"What has allowed Lille to be in the spotlight today is simple," Galtier told sports daily L'Equipe in November.

"The president found funds to invest in players spotted by a man of incredible competence."

Now they have both gone and Galtier may not be there next season either. He has a year left on his contract but may feel he can take Lille no further. He has been linked with French rivals Lyon and Nice.

Lille now have a new president in ex-PSG sporting director Olivier Letang, but French football is still reeling from the collapse of a record domestic broadcast deal with Mediapro late last year.

In any case Lille's budget is smaller than that of Lyon, Marseille and Monaco as well as PSG.

The Parisians will almost certainly be back next year but Lille, champions for the fourth time in their history, will be able to say the success was fun while it lasted.

In the final analysis it is tempting to put the outcome of the French title race down to Paris Saint-Germain's shortcomings, but nothing should be taken away from Lille's remarkable achievement in winning Ligue 1 for the first time in a decade.

In the final analysis it is tempting to put the outcome of the French title race down to Paris Saint-Germain's shortcomings, but nothing should be taken away from Lille's remarkable achievement in winning Ligue 1 for the first time in a decade. PSG, despite boasting the two most expensive signings ever in Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, did suffer eight defeats, their most in a single campaign since 2010-11. Yet somebody still needed to take advantage of the Qatar-owned club's slip-ups and Lille did that emphatically. They also took four points off PSG, including beating them in Paris. "We have only lost three games. Maybe PSG have not been as good but Lille have been great," said winger Jonathan Bamba. - The architects - Lille's success is partly down to circumstance, and partly down to two inspirational figures. The coach, Christophe Galtier, took over a sinking ship from Marcelo Bielsa midway through the 2017-18 season. Lille just avoided relegation and then finished second to PSG in his first full season. They were fourth when last season was ended early because of the coronavirus pandemic, and now they are champions. Galtier's success is all the more remarkable given that the club has regularly sold its best players. In 2018 midfielder Yves Bissouma was sold to Brighton. In 2019 they sold star forward Nicolas Pepe to Arsenal for 80 million euros ($97m), Rafael Leao to AC Milan and midfielder Thiago Mendes to Lyon. Last year top scorer Victor Osimhen left for Napoli for 70 million euros, while Brazilian centre-back Gabriel joined Arsenal for 30 million. Yet Galtier has brilliantly incorporated replacements and hugely enhanced a reputation that was already glowing following his record in eight years at Saint-Etienne. But the one-time Portsmouth assistant manager's success would not have been possible without Luis Campos, the Portuguese super-scout who built the Monaco team that denied PSG the title in 2017. He was also the genius behind the scenes at Lille, the man who made it possible for them to sell Pepe and Mendes in 2019 and replace them with Osimhen and Renato Sanches. Last year he replaced Gabriel with young Dutch defender Sven Botman while replacing Osimhen with Canadian striker Jonathan David and signing veteran Turkish striker Burak Yilmaz. 'King Burak' has been an absolute superstar. Fittingly, both men were on target in Sunday's title-clinching 2-1 win at Angers. Campos, though, left Monaco a year before their title triumph and his relationship with Lille ended midway through this season too. After 2017, that Monaco team was gradually broken up. When the title celebrations among Lille supporters die down, they might worry for the future too. Their current team was only not pillaged even more last summer because of the financial impact on Europe's leading clubs of the pandemic. This time Lille will lose more players, goalkeeper Mike Maignan and midfielder Boubakary Soumare probably among them, but Campos will not be there to sign replacements. - New owners, new direction? - Galtier's achievements are even more remarkable given Lille went through considerable off-field turmoil in the winter. It was not just Campos who left but also the club's owner, Luxembourgish-Spanish businessman Gerard Lopez, who under financial pressure sold Lille in December to a subsidiary of the Merlyn Partners investment fund. "What has allowed Lille to be in the spotlight today is simple," Galtier told sports daily L'Equipe in November. "The president found funds to invest in players spotted by a man of incredible competence." Now they have both gone and Galtier may not be there next season either. He has a year left on his contract but may feel he can take Lille no further. He has been linked with French rivals Lyon and Nice. Lille now have a new president in ex-PSG sporting director Olivier Letang, but French football is still reeling from the collapse of a record domestic broadcast deal with Mediapro late last year. In any case Lille's budget is smaller than that of Lyon, Marseille and Monaco as well as PSG. The Parisians will almost certainly be back next year but Lille, champions for the fourth time in their history, will be able to say the success was fun while it lasted.

Football: Lille enjoy French title win but maintaining success may be impossible

Juventus qualified for the Champions League on the final day of the season on Sunday with a 4-1 win at Bologna and were joined by AC Milan who beat Atalanta 2-0.

Napoli had to settle for a Europa League spot, finishing fifth, one point behind Juventus, after a 1-1 draw at home against Hellas Verona.

A pair of Franck Kessie penalities at the end of either half ensured AC Milan finished the season second -- 12 points behind city rivals Inter Milan -- and return to the Champions League for the first time since the 2013-2014 season.

"We deserved the Champions League as well as second place," said Milan coach Stefano Pioli whose side had missed the chance to seal their berth last weekend against Cagliari.

"We went through the whole championship at the top, unfortunately we had thrown away the match point last Sunday.

"I'm really excited, happy, I have to thank the club because they made us work in a spectacular way."

Atalanta had already ensured a third consecutive season of Champions League football but missed out on a first second-place Serie A finish days after losing out in the Coppa Italia final to Juventus.

Cristiano Ronaldo was left on the bench by Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo who opted for an attacking line-up of Paulo Dybala and Alvaro Morata flanked by Federico Chiesa and Dejan Kulusevski.

"It was a shared choice, Ronaldo was tired after the fatigue on Wednesday," said Pirlo.&nbsp;

"He made himself available to the team but I chose to have another player named Morata play, who is not the latest arrival. I have a quality team, with many choices available."

A Morata brace along with goals from Chiesa and Adrien Rabiot prevented Juventus missing out on the elite European competition for the first time since 2012.

In Naples, Amir Rrahmani scored for Napoli after an hour against his former club, which would have been enough to secure a berth at the top table but Davide Faraoni pulled one back for the visitors nine minutes.

Gennaro Gattuso's side were denied a return to elite European action after also missing out last season.

In a tense game in Bergamo, Milan held on despite playing without injured star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Kessie proved solid in front of goal taking the first penalty three minutes before the break and the second deep into injury time.

Lazio join Napoli in the Europa League despite a 2-0 loss at Sassuolo with Roma finishing seventh after coming from two goals down to hold Spezia 2-2.

In Bologna, Italy forward Chiesa, who scored the Coppa Italia winner midweek, finishing off a Kulusevski cross into the box from close range after six minutes for his 15th goal in all competitions this season.

Dybala set up Morata to nod in the second before the half-hour mark with Rabiot adding a third before the break at the Stadio Dall'Ara.

Morata got the second just after the interval latching onto a ball Juve goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny blasted up the pitch.

The Spaniard controlled the ball and raced forward to finish off.

Riccardo Orsolini pulled a goal back for Bologna past Juve's third-choice goalkeeper Carlo Pinsoglio who got his first outing this season coming on for Szczesny for the final quarter of an hour.

Earlier Inter Milan were presented with their first trophy in 11 years after a 5-1 win over Udinese in their final game in the San Siro.

Antonio Conte's side had sealed their 19th 'Scudetto' with four games to spare and were able to play their final game of the season with 1,000 celebrating supporters.

Outside more than 4,000 had gathered from early in the morning with fireworks and flares, greeting the team bus with chants and cheers.

Ashley Young struck after eight minutes with Christian Eriksen, Lautaro Martinez, Ivan Perisic and Romelu Lukaku also all on target.

Juventus qualified for the Champions League on the final day of the season on Sunday with a 4-1 win at Bologna and were joined by AC Milan who beat Atalanta 2-0.

Juventus qualified for the Champions League on the final day of the season on Sunday with a 4-1 win at Bologna and were joined by AC Milan who beat Atalanta 2-0. Napoli had to settle for a Europa League spot, finishing fifth, one point behind Juventus, after a 1-1 draw at home against Hellas Verona. A pair of Franck Kessie penalities at the end of either half ensured AC Milan finished the season second -- 12 points behind city rivals Inter Milan -- and return to the Champions League for the first time since the 2013-2014 season. "We deserved the Champions League as well as second place," said Milan coach Stefano Pioli whose side had missed the chance to seal their berth last weekend against Cagliari. "We went through the whole championship at the top, unfortunately we had thrown away the match point last Sunday. "I'm really excited, happy, I have to thank the club because they made us work in a spectacular way." Atalanta had already ensured a third consecutive season of Champions League football but missed out on a first second-place Serie A finish days after losing out in the Coppa Italia final to Juventus. Cristiano Ronaldo was left on the bench by Juventus coach Andrea Pirlo who opted for an attacking line-up of Paulo Dybala and Alvaro Morata flanked by Federico Chiesa and Dejan Kulusevski. "It was a shared choice, Ronaldo was tired after the fatigue on Wednesday," said Pirlo. "He made himself available to the team but I chose to have another player named Morata play, who is not the latest arrival. I have a quality team, with many choices available." A Morata brace along with goals from Chiesa and Adrien Rabiot prevented Juventus missing out on the elite European competition for the first time since 2012. In Naples, Amir Rrahmani scored for Napoli after an hour against his former club, which would have been enough to secure a berth at the top table but Davide Faraoni pulled one back for the visitors nine minutes. Gennaro Gattuso's side were denied a return to elite European action after also missing out last season. In a tense game in Bergamo, Milan held on despite playing without injured star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Kessie proved solid in front of goal taking the first penalty three minutes before the break and the second deep into injury time. Lazio join Napoli in the Europa League despite a 2-0 loss at Sassuolo with Roma finishing seventh after coming from two goals down to hold Spezia 2-2. In Bologna, Italy forward Chiesa, who scored the Coppa Italia winner midweek, finishing off a Kulusevski cross into the box from close range after six minutes for his 15th goal in all competitions this season. Dybala set up Morata to nod in the second before the half-hour mark with Rabiot adding a third before the break at the Stadio Dall'Ara. Morata got the second just after the interval latching onto a ball Juve goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny blasted up the pitch. The Spaniard controlled the ball and raced forward to finish off. Riccardo Orsolini pulled a goal back for Bologna past Juve's third-choice goalkeeper Carlo Pinsoglio who got his first outing this season coming on for Szczesny for the final quarter of an hour. Earlier Inter Milan were presented with their first trophy in 11 years after a 5-1 win over Udinese in their final game in the San Siro. Antonio Conte's side had sealed their 19th 'Scudetto' with four games to spare and were able to play their final game of the season with 1,000 celebrating supporters. Outside more than 4,000 had gathered from early in the morning with fireworks and flares, greeting the team bus with chants and cheers. Ashley Young struck after eight minutes with Christian Eriksen, Lautaro Martinez, Ivan Perisic and Romelu Lukaku also all on target.

Football: Juventus and AC Milan qualify for Champions League, Napoli miss out

Sergio Aguero said goodbye to the Etihad Stadium for one final time on Sunday as he featured in his very last home game for Manchester City. A decade after joining from Atletico Madrid, Aguero’s contribution to Manchester City was celebrated in fitting style as fans returned to the stadium for the first time in 15 months. <o:p></o:p>

Coming off the bench to a rousing reception, Aguero scored twice to break the Premier League record for most goals scored by any player for one club. <o:p></o:p>

With Everton players and staff providing the guard of honour to Aguero and his fellow title-winning teammates before kick-off, the legendary striker received a standing ovation from 10,000 adoring City supporters as he entered the fray for the final time, before the focus shifted to a first-ever Champions League final next weekend. <o:p></o:p>

Earlier this week, the club unveiled a Sergio-inspired mosaic that will mark his outstanding contribution to Manchester City during his 10-year spell, beside a training pitch dedicated to the Argentinean.

<o:p></o:p>

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Walking-off with King Kun one last time 💙 
 
🔷 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ManCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ManCity</a> | <a href="https://t.co/axa0klD5re">https://t.co/axa0klD5re</a> <a href="https://t.co/oHr73viWYM">pic.twitter.com/oHr73viWYM</a>
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1396527884911747073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The club had previously revealed that a statue of the City striker has been commissioned to stand alongside those of fellow legends Vincent Kompany and David Silva.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/football-from-messi-to-lewandowski-single-season-top-scorers-in-europes-five-main-leagues-386876" hreflang="en">Football: From Messi to Lewandowski: Single season top-scorers in Europe's five main leagues</a><o:p></o:p>

Aguero sealed his place in the history books at the end of his very first season, when his unforgettable last-gasp winner against Queens Park Rangers clinched the most dramatic title win in Premier League history. His contribution, however, would extend far beyond that extraordinary moment. <o:p></o:p>

15 pieces of domestic silverware would follow during a decade in which Aguero also became the Club’s all-time leading goal-scorer. <o:p></o:p>

A Champions League final awaits next weekend, as the 32-year-old looks to crown his stay with European glory.

<o:p><img alt="Aguero" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb5ba869-5074-4cf4-bcce-9c8f33439eb2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9AM2WM.jpg" /></o:p>

A 2014 World Cup finalist, Aguero leaves City with five Premier League medals to his name and as the highest-scoring foreign player ever to feature in the league. His remarkable consistency is reflected by having been named Premier League Player of the Month more than any other player since the inception of the competition [7].

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-manchester-city-win-hat-trick-of-premier-league-titles-386911" hreflang="en">Football: Manchester City win hat-trick of Premier League titles</a><o:p></o:p>

His haul of honours also includes an FA Cup, secured as part of the historic domestic treble winning season of 2018- 19 and six League Cup titles that make him the joint most decorated player in that competition’s history. <o:p></o:p>

Manchester City chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak said: “Sergio will leave nothing short of an indelible mark on Manchester City Football Club. “His rare blend of exceptional talent and understated humility have not only secured him a place in the history books of English football, but in the hearts of every Manchester City supporter across the world.

“His statue will immortalise that legacy forever and pay tribute to a decade in which very few players across world football had as integral an impact as he had here.”<o:p></o:p>

Sergio Aguero said goodbye to the Etihad Stadium for one final time on Sunday as he featured in his very last home game for Manchester City. A decade after joining from Atletico Madrid, Aguero’s contribution to Manchester City was celebrated in fitting style as fans returned to the stadium for the first time in 15 months.

Sergio Aguero said goodbye to the Etihad Stadium for one final time on Sunday as he featured in his very last home game for Manchester City. A decade after joining from Atletico Madrid, Aguero’s contribution to Manchester City was celebrated in fitting style as fans returned to the stadium for the first time in 15 months. Coming off the bench to a rousing reception, Aguero scored twice to break the Premier League record for most goals scored by any player for one club. With Everton players and staff providing the guard of honour to Aguero and his fellow title-winning teammates before kick-off, the legendary striker received a standing ovation from 10,000 adoring City supporters as he entered the fray for the final time, before the focus shifted to a first-ever Champions League final next weekend. Earlier this week, the club unveiled a Sergio-inspired mosaic that will mark his outstanding contribution to Manchester City during his 10-year spell, beside a training pitch dedicated to the Argentinean. Walking-off with King Kun one last time 💙 🔷 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re pic.twitter.com/oHr73viWYM — Manchester City (@ManCity) May 23, 2021 × The club had previously revealed that a statue of the City striker has been commissioned to stand alongside those of fellow legends Vincent Kompany and David Silva. ALSO READ: Football: From Messi to Lewandowski: Single season top-scorers in Europe's five main leagues Aguero sealed his place in the history books at the end of his very first season, when his unforgettable last-gasp winner against Queens Park Rangers clinched the most dramatic title win in Premier League history. His contribution, however, would extend far beyond that extraordinary moment. 15 pieces of domestic silverware would follow during a decade in which Aguero also became the Club’s all-time leading goal-scorer. A Champions League final awaits next weekend, as the 32-year-old looks to crown his stay with European glory. A 2014 World Cup finalist, Aguero leaves City with five Premier League medals to his name and as the highest-scoring foreign player ever to feature in the league. His remarkable consistency is reflected by having been named Premier League Player of the Month more than any other player since the inception of the competition [7]. ALSO READ: Football: Manchester City win hat-trick of Premier League titles His haul of honours also includes an FA Cup, secured as part of the historic domestic treble winning season of 2018- 19 and six League Cup titles that make him the joint most decorated player in that competition’s history. Manchester City chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak said: “Sergio will leave nothing short of an indelible mark on Manchester City Football Club. “His rare blend of exceptional talent and understated humility have not only secured him a place in the history books of English football, but in the hearts of every Manchester City supporter across the world. “His statue will immortalise that legacy forever and pay tribute to a decade in which very few players across world football had as integral an impact as he had here.”

Football: Record-breaking Sergio Aguero bids farewell to Etihad Stadium in style

Sergio Ramos has opened up about his omission from Spain’s Euro 2020 squad as head coach Luis Enrique left the iconic defender out of the contingent. Ramos will be missing his first major international tournament since Euro 2004 with not a single Real Madrid player making it into the La Roja squad.<o:p></o:p>

Ramos was the most notable absentee in Spain’s Euro 2020 squad as Enrique named his final 24-member squad for the tournament, starting May 24. In Ramos’ absence, Sergio Busquets will take over the captaincy duty for Spain.<o:p></o:p>

Ramos witnessed an injury-plagued 2020-21 season at Real Madrid with the Los Blancos failing to win a single trophy in the year. Ramos played just 21 matches across all competitions and has started just two since undergoing surgery in January.<o:p></o:p>

While Ramos expressed his disappointment in missing out from the Spain squad but added that he is now focusing on regaining his full fitness and be ready for the next season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-sergio-ramos-left-out-as-spain-announce-squad-for-euro-2020-387075" hreflang="en">Football: Sergio Ramos left out as Spain announce squad for Euro 2020</a>

<o:p></o:p>

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Después de unos meses jodidos y una temporada atípica y distinta a lo que he vivido en toda mi carrera, también se une la Eurocopa. 
 
After a tough few months and a strange season unlike anything I have experienced in my career comes the Euros. <a href="https://t.co/U8fWjR5et5">pic.twitter.com/U8fWjR5et5</a>
— Sergio Ramos (@SergioRamos) <a href="https://twitter.com/SergioRamos/status/1396803230357725188?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Ramos took to social media platforms as the veteran defender wrote: "After a few months and a strange season unlike anything I have experienced in my career comes the Euros. "I have fought and worked body and soul every day to be able to reach 100 per cent with Real Madrid and the national team, but things do not always go the way you want.<o:p></o:p>

"It hurts me not to have been able to help my team more and not defend Spain but, in this case, it is better to rest, fully recover well and, next year, return as we have always done.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-sergio-aguero-close-to-barcelona-move-reveals-pep-guardiola-387069" hreflang="en">Football: Sergio Aguero close to Barcelona move, reveals Pep Guardiola</a><o:p></o:p>

"It hurts not to represent your country, but you have to be honest and sincere. A big shout to everyone and #VivaEspana and #HalaMadrid always!"<o:p></o:p>

Earlier, Luis Enrique said that Ramos has been left out due to persistent injury concerns with his club Real Madrid. <o:p></o:p>

"Ramos has not been able to compete this season, he has not been able to train with the group," said the Spain boss. "I called him last night, it was difficult and hard.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>"I clearly see that it’s a complicated decision. I recommended that he be selfish and that he regains his level to play in his club and in the national team."<o:p></o:p>

Sergio Ramos has opened up about his omission from Spain’s Euro 2020 squad as head coach Luis Enrique left the iconic defender out of the contingent. Ramos will be missing his first major international tournament since Euro 2004 with not a single Real Madrid player making it into the La Roja squad.

Sergio Ramos has opened up about his omission from Spain’s Euro 2020 squad as head coach Luis Enrique left the iconic defender out of the contingent. Ramos will be missing his first major international tournament since Euro 2004 with not a single Real Madrid player making it into the La Roja squad. Ramos was the most notable absentee in Spain’s Euro 2020 squad as Enrique named his final 24-member squad for the tournament, starting May 24. In Ramos’ absence, Sergio Busquets will take over the captaincy duty for Spain. Ramos witnessed an injury-plagued 2020-21 season at Real Madrid with the Los Blancos failing to win a single trophy in the year. Ramos played just 21 matches across all competitions and has started just two since undergoing surgery in January. While Ramos expressed his disappointment in missing out from the Spain squad but added that he is now focusing on regaining his full fitness and be ready for the next season. ALSO READ: Football: Sergio Ramos left out as Spain announce squad for Euro 2020 Después de unos meses jodidos y una temporada atípica y distinta a lo que he vivido en toda mi carrera, también se une la Eurocopa. After a tough few months and a strange season unlike anything I have experienced in my career comes the Euros. pic.twitter.com/U8fWjR5et5 — Sergio Ramos (@SergioRamos) May 24, 2021 × Ramos took to social media platforms as the veteran defender wrote: "After a few months and a strange season unlike anything I have experienced in my career comes the Euros. "I have fought and worked body and soul every day to be able to reach 100 per cent with Real Madrid and the national team, but things do not always go the way you want. "It hurts me not to have been able to help my team more and not defend Spain but, in this case, it is better to rest, fully recover well and, next year, return as we have always done. ALSO READ: Football: Sergio Aguero close to Barcelona move, reveals Pep Guardiola "It hurts not to represent your country, but you have to be honest and sincere. A big shout to everyone and #VivaEspana and #HalaMadrid always!" Earlier, Luis Enrique said that Ramos has been left out due to persistent injury concerns with his club Real Madrid. "Ramos has not been able to compete this season, he has not been able to train with the group," said the Spain boss. "I called him last night, it was difficult and hard. "I clearly see that it’s a complicated decision. I recommended that he be selfish and that he regains his level to play in his club and in the national team."

Football: 'It hurts me' - Sergio Ramos opens up about omission from Spain's Euro 2020 squad

Head coach of Spain national football team, Luis Enrique on Monday confirmed the 24-member squad for the upcoming Euro 2020 as he left Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos out of the team.

Ramos, who has won many accolades with Spain including World Cup and Euro, will miss out on the tournament after playing 180 matches for La Roja.

The iconic defender has played every major international tournament for Spain starting from Euro 2004 but the streak comes to an end after his omission from the Spain squad for Euro 2020.

Spain will play in Group E and will play Slovakia, Sweden and Poland at Seville's La Cartuja Olympic stadium with a limited number of spectators allowed to attend the games.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-sergio-aguero-close-to-barcelona-move-reveals-pep-guardiola-387069" hreflang="en">Football: Sergio Aguero close to Barcelona move, reveals Pep Guardiola</a>

Meanwhile, Aymeric Laporte gets his first call-up for Spain since switching allegiance from France. Recently, Laporte got his Spain nationality as he completes his switch from France.

Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets was named in the squad and is likely to lead the team in the absence of Ramos. Surprisingly, Iago Aspas misses out despite having a brilliant season in LaLiga.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-andrea-pirlo-explains-cristiano-ronaldo-omission-against-bologna-387029" hreflang="en">Football: Andrea Pirlo explains Cristiano Ronaldo omission against Bologna</a>

<h2>Spain Euro 2020 squad:</h2>

Goalkeepers: Unai Simón, De Gea, Robert Sánchez

Defenders: Gayà, Jordi Alba, Pau Torres, Laporte, Eric García, Diego Llorente, Azpilicueta, Marcos Llorente.

Midfielders: Busquets, Rodri, Pedri, Thiago, Koke, Fabián.

Forwards: Dani Olmo, Oyarzabal, Morata, Gerard Moreno, Ferran Torres, Adama Traore, Pablo Sarabia.

&nbsp;

Head coach of Spain national football team, Luis Enrique on Monday confirmed the 24-member squad for the upcoming Euro 2020 as he left Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos out of the team.

Head coach of Spain national football team, Luis Enrique on Monday confirmed the 24-member squad for the upcoming Euro 2020 as he left Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos out of the team. Ramos, who has won many accolades with Spain including World Cup and Euro, will miss out on the tournament after playing 180 matches for La Roja. The iconic defender has played every major international tournament for Spain starting from Euro 2004 but the streak comes to an end after his omission from the Spain squad for Euro 2020. Spain will play in Group E and will play Slovakia, Sweden and Poland at Seville's La Cartuja Olympic stadium with a limited number of spectators allowed to attend the games. ALSO READ: Football: Sergio Aguero close to Barcelona move, reveals Pep Guardiola Meanwhile, Aymeric Laporte gets his first call-up for Spain since switching allegiance from France. Recently, Laporte got his Spain nationality as he completes his switch from France. Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets was named in the squad and is likely to lead the team in the absence of Ramos. Surprisingly, Iago Aspas misses out despite having a brilliant season in LaLiga. ALSO READ: Football: Andrea Pirlo explains Cristiano Ronaldo omission against Bologna Spain Euro 2020 squad: Goalkeepers: Unai Simón, De Gea, Robert Sánchez Defenders: Gayà, Jordi Alba, Pau Torres, Laporte, Eric García, Diego Llorente, Azpilicueta, Marcos Llorente. Midfielders: Busquets, Rodri, Pedri, Thiago, Koke, Fabián. Forwards: Dani Olmo, Oyarzabal, Morata, Gerard Moreno, Ferran Torres, Adama Traore, Pablo Sarabia.

Football: Sergio Ramos left out as Spain announce squad for Euro 2020

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola revealed record-breaking forward Sergio Aguero’s next club as the Spaniard gave a fitting tribute to the Argentine striker following the club’s 5-0 win over Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>

Aguero is set to head back to La Liga where he shot to fame as a youngster. Aguero is now close to signing for Barcelona, revealed Guardiola on Sunday after Man City lifted yet another Premier League trophy under the former Barca boss.<o:p></o:p>

The Man City manager while endorsing the move said Aguero would provide Barcelona a huge boost in the attacking front and added that he was happy that the Argentine could play "alongside the best player of all time, Messi".<o:p></o:p>

Aguero bid an emotional farewell to Man City on Sunday netting a brace after coming on in the 61st minute of the match.<o:p></o:p>

"Maybe I reveal a secret," Guardiola told BBC. "Maybe he is close to agreeing a deal for the club of my heart - for Barcelona.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-who-will-challenge-for-man-citys-premier-league-crown-next-season-387037" hreflang="en">Football: Who will challenge for Man City's Premier League crown next season?</a>

<o:p></o:p>

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🗣 "He's a special person for us." 💙 
 
Pep Guardiola gets emotional talking about Sergio Aguero leaving Manchester City <a href="https://t.co/LoKM9wMJAR">pic.twitter.com/LoKM9wMJAR</a>
— Football Daily (@footballdaily) <a href="https://twitter.com/footballdaily/status/1396527643923783680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"He is going to be playing alongside the best player of all time, Messi.<o:p></o:p>

"I'm pretty sure he is going to enjoy. And maybe Barcelona are stronger and stronger with him on the pitch."<o:p></o:p>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-manchester-city-win-hat-trick-of-premier-league-titles-386911" hreflang="en">Football: Manchester City win hat-trick of Premier League titles</a>

Aguero and Pep agreed that the striker would come in the second of the match in what was his final appearance for Man City at the Etihad Stadium. Aguero has scripted many incredible moments for the Blues in his trophy-laden decade-long stay at the club. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, while Aguero gears up to move to Barcelona after his first Champions League final appearance, Man City have been linked with Tottenham Hotspur striker and England captain Harry Kane to bolster their attack for the upcoming season.<o:p></o:p>

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola revealed record-breaking forward Sergio Aguero’s next club as the Spaniard gave a fitting tribute to the Argentine striker following the club’s 5-0 win over Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola revealed record-breaking forward Sergio Aguero’s next club as the Spaniard gave a fitting tribute to the Argentine striker following the club’s 5-0 win over Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Aguero is set to head back to La Liga where he shot to fame as a youngster. Aguero is now close to signing for Barcelona, revealed Guardiola on Sunday after Man City lifted yet another Premier League trophy under the former Barca boss. The Man City manager while endorsing the move said Aguero would provide Barcelona a huge boost in the attacking front and added that he was happy that the Argentine could play "alongside the best player of all time, Messi". Aguero bid an emotional farewell to Man City on Sunday netting a brace after coming on in the 61st minute of the match. "Maybe I reveal a secret," Guardiola told BBC. "Maybe he is close to agreeing a deal for the club of my heart - for Barcelona. ALSO READ: Football: Who will challenge for Man City's Premier League crown next season? 🗣 "He's a special person for us." 💙 Pep Guardiola gets emotional talking about Sergio Aguero leaving Manchester City pic.twitter.com/LoKM9wMJAR — Football Daily (@footballdaily) May 23, 2021 × "He is going to be playing alongside the best player of all time, Messi. "I'm pretty sure he is going to enjoy. And maybe Barcelona are stronger and stronger with him on the pitch." ALSO READ: Football: Manchester City win hat-trick of Premier League titles Aguero and Pep agreed that the striker would come in the second of the match in what was his final appearance for Man City at the Etihad Stadium. Aguero has scripted many incredible moments for the Blues in his trophy-laden decade-long stay at the club. Meanwhile, while Aguero gears up to move to Barcelona after his first Champions League final appearance, Man City have been linked with Tottenham Hotspur striker and England captain Harry Kane to bolster their attack for the upcoming season.

Football: Sergio Aguero close to Barcelona move, reveals Pep Guardiola

Having recently completed a year-long loan spell with his previous club Tottenham Hotspur, Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale has vetoed to uncover his future plans, guaranteeing it would prompt 'chaos'.&nbsp;

Gareth Bale was conveyed on a year-long loan to Tottenham Hotspur subsequent to dropping out of the Real Madrid hierarchy. In what was his second stretch with the North London-based club, he scored 16 goals across competitions.&nbsp;

Gareth Bale scored twice in the Spurs' last round of the Premier League season against Leicester City. After the match, he was asked about whether he will move back to Real Madrid or broaden his visit with Tottenham. In answer, he said:&nbsp;

“I know what I am doing. But it will just cause chaos if I say anything.”

Recently, Gareth Bale's representative Jonathan Barnett disclosed to Sky Sports News' Inside Football that the Bale had a 'tough ride' at Tottenham upon his appearance from Real Madrid. He added that it was solely after recuperating from wounds and being restored to his favored position that Bale began getting it done.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-andrea-pirlo-explains-cristiano-ronaldo-omission-against-bologna-387029" hreflang="en">Football: Andrea Pirlo explains Cristiano Ronaldo omission against Bologna</a>

"Nothing has been discussed at the moment. He had a tough ride and I don't think that should have been necessary. He came as one of the best players in the world. Sure, he had a few injuries and a few fitness problems but once they were over, all he needed was to be played in the right position and to be played constantly to get back into the rhythm. He has been given that opportunity and you can see how he plays. I think with Gareth, like a lot of players, he has to enjoy his life, and then you do well" - he said.

Not long after Tottenham Hotspur's 3-2 success over Leicester City, rumored football columnist Fabrizio Romano announced that Gareth Bale's future will before long be chosen. He added that Bale's representative, Barnett, will before long meet with Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur's agents.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-who-will-challenge-for-man-citys-premier-league-crown-next-season-387037" hreflang="en">Football: Who will challenge for Man City's Premier League crown next season?</a>

"Gareth Bale’s future will be decided in the next weeks, meeting already scheduled with his agent Jonathan Barnett."The final decision will be made once Real Madrid and Tottenham will clarify their manager's situation. Real are looking to sell many players this summer," Fabrizio Romano posted after the final round of Premier League matches on Sunday, May 23. 
&nbsp;

Having recently completed a year-long loan spell with his previous club Tottenham Hotspur, Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale has vetoed to uncover his future plans, guaranteeing it would prompt 'chaos'.

Having recently completed a year-long loan spell with his previous club Tottenham Hotspur, Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale has vetoed to uncover his future plans, guaranteeing it would prompt 'chaos'. Gareth Bale was conveyed on a year-long loan to Tottenham Hotspur subsequent to dropping out of the Real Madrid hierarchy. In what was his second stretch with the North London-based club, he scored 16 goals across competitions. Gareth Bale scored twice in the Spurs' last round of the Premier League season against Leicester City. After the match, he was asked about whether he will move back to Real Madrid or broaden his visit with Tottenham. In answer, he said: “I know what I am doing. But it will just cause chaos if I say anything.” Recently, Gareth Bale's representative Jonathan Barnett disclosed to Sky Sports News' Inside Football that the Bale had a 'tough ride' at Tottenham upon his appearance from Real Madrid. He added that it was solely after recuperating from wounds and being restored to his favored position that Bale began getting it done. ALSO READ: Football: Andrea Pirlo explains Cristiano Ronaldo omission against Bologna "Nothing has been discussed at the moment. He had a tough ride and I don't think that should have been necessary. He came as one of the best players in the world. Sure, he had a few injuries and a few fitness problems but once they were over, all he needed was to be played in the right position and to be played constantly to get back into the rhythm. He has been given that opportunity and you can see how he plays. I think with Gareth, like a lot of players, he has to enjoy his life, and then you do well" - he said. Not long after Tottenham Hotspur's 3-2 success over Leicester City, rumored football columnist Fabrizio Romano announced that Gareth Bale's future will before long be chosen. He added that Bale's representative, Barnett, will before long meet with Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur's agents. ALSO READ: Football: Who will challenge for Man City's Premier League crown next season? "Gareth Bale’s future will be decided in the next weeks, meeting already scheduled with his agent Jonathan Barnett."The final decision will be made once Real Madrid and Tottenham will clarify their manager's situation. Real are looking to sell many players this summer," Fabrizio Romano posted after the final round of Premier League matches on Sunday, May 23.

Football: 'If I say anything it will cause chaos': Gareth Bale on his future

Manchester City cruised to their third Premier League title in four seasons, but Pep Guardiola's side are likely to face a tough defence of the crown next season.

Liverpool and Manchester United look capable of pushing the champions, while Chelsea should be in the mix after Thomas Tuchel's impressive impact on the Champions League finalists.

AFP Sport looks at how the four leading title contenders will shape up:

<h2>Manchester City</h2>

After the midway point of the season, City were virtually untouchable as they surged clear with a record 21-game winning streak in all competitions by an English top-flight side.

Revitalised by the addition of Portugese international centre-back Ruben Dias and the emergence of England playmaker Phil Foden, City silenced the critics who questioned Pep Guardiola after the Spaniard suffered the worst start to a season in his managerial career.

Regaining the title from Liverpool, while also winning the League Cup and reaching their first Champions League final, suggests City are in position for a period of sustained dominance.

They have few weaknesses but the close-season departure of Sergio Aguero, the club's record goalscorer, leaves a void that needs filling.

England striker Harry Kane could be top of Guardiola's shopping list after confirming he wants to leave Tottenham, but his mooted £150 million ($213 million) price tag may convince him to look at the younger and cheaper Borussia Dortmund goal machine Erling Haaland.

<h2>Manchester United</h2>

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer survived some rocky spells to establish his side as genuine title contenders heading into next season.

Solskjaer led United to a second place finish -- 12 points behind City -- and the Norwegian has a chance to win the first trophy of his reign in the Europa League final against Villarreal on Wednesday.

Portugal star Bruno Fernandes has been the catalyst, providing on-field inspiration and dressing room leadership in equal measure, a stark contrast to the gifted but temperamental Paul Pogba.

Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood were potent in patches and keeping Edinson Cavani was a wise move, but Kane has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford with Solskjaer needing a world-class striker in his prime to really worry City.

Jadon Sancho and Jack Grealish are also reportedly targets to add extra creativity and goals from the wide areas.

But bigger questions remain in defence with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof not always convincing at centre-back, while Dean Henderson and David De Gea battle to be number one goalkeeper.

<h2>Liverpool</h2>

Hamstrung by a seemingly endless injury list that deprived them of key leaders Virgil van Dijk and Jordan Henderson for most of the season, Liverpool finished outside the top two for the first time in three years.

Jurgen Klopp's often tetchy demeanour reflected the stress of an arduous campaign as Liverpool failed to build on last season's first English title in 30 years.

But a strong run of eight wins in their last 10 league games earned a third-place finish, providing optimism for next term.

Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Trent Alexander-Arnold must improve on patchy individual campaigns, with Mohamed Salah's future also up for debate after his flirtation with Real Madrid.

While Liverpool have work to do if they are to regain their position as the Premier League's preeminent force, the return of Van Dijk, Henderson and Joe Gomez next season will be a significant boost to their title hopes.

<h2>Chelsea</h2>

When Frank Lampard was sacked in January, Chelsea were languishing in ninth place as a troubled season threatened to spiral out of control.

However, the decision to hire Thomas Tuchel as Lampard's replacement proved inspired and the German has fourth-placed Chelsea nicely positioned to push on next season.

Aided by Mason Mount's superb form, Tuchel has taken Chelsea to the Champions League final for the first time since 2012, with Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid unable to solve the tactical tweaks that made the Blues solid in defence and deadly on the counter-attack.

Having healed the fractures in a squad divided by Lampard's methods, Tuchel has already masterminded two victories over City and one against Liverpool.

To truly turn Chelsea into a force, the former Paris Saint Germain boss must solve the problems posed by the erratic form of expensive signings Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Hakim Ziyech.

Manchester City cruised to their third Premier League title in four seasons, but Pep Guardiola's side are likely to face a tough defence of the crown next season.

Manchester City cruised to their third Premier League title in four seasons, but Pep Guardiola's side are likely to face a tough defence of the crown next season. Liverpool and Manchester United look capable of pushing the champions, while Chelsea should be in the mix after Thomas Tuchel's impressive impact on the Champions League finalists. AFP Sport looks at how the four leading title contenders will shape up: Manchester City After the midway point of the season, City were virtually untouchable as they surged clear with a record 21-game winning streak in all competitions by an English top-flight side. Revitalised by the addition of Portugese international centre-back Ruben Dias and the emergence of England playmaker Phil Foden, City silenced the critics who questioned Pep Guardiola after the Spaniard suffered the worst start to a season in his managerial career. Regaining the title from Liverpool, while also winning the League Cup and reaching their first Champions League final, suggests City are in position for a period of sustained dominance. They have few weaknesses but the close-season departure of Sergio Aguero, the club's record goalscorer, leaves a void that needs filling. England striker Harry Kane could be top of Guardiola's shopping list after confirming he wants to leave Tottenham, but his mooted £150 million ($213 million) price tag may convince him to look at the younger and cheaper Borussia Dortmund goal machine Erling Haaland. Manchester United United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer survived some rocky spells to establish his side as genuine title contenders heading into next season. Solskjaer led United to a second place finish -- 12 points behind City -- and the Norwegian has a chance to win the first trophy of his reign in the Europa League final against Villarreal on Wednesday. Portugal star Bruno Fernandes has been the catalyst, providing on-field inspiration and dressing room leadership in equal measure, a stark contrast to the gifted but temperamental Paul Pogba. Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood were potent in patches and keeping Edinson Cavani was a wise move, but Kane has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford with Solskjaer needing a world-class striker in his prime to really worry City. Jadon Sancho and Jack Grealish are also reportedly targets to add extra creativity and goals from the wide areas. But bigger questions remain in defence with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof not always convincing at centre-back, while Dean Henderson and David De Gea battle to be number one goalkeeper. Liverpool Hamstrung by a seemingly endless injury list that deprived them of key leaders Virgil van Dijk and Jordan Henderson for most of the season, Liverpool finished outside the top two for the first time in three years. Jurgen Klopp's often tetchy demeanour reflected the stress of an arduous campaign as Liverpool failed to build on last season's first English title in 30 years. But a strong run of eight wins in their last 10 league games earned a third-place finish, providing optimism for next term. Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Trent Alexander-Arnold must improve on patchy individual campaigns, with Mohamed Salah's future also up for debate after his flirtation with Real Madrid. While Liverpool have work to do if they are to regain their position as the Premier League's preeminent force, the return of Van Dijk, Henderson and Joe Gomez next season will be a significant boost to their title hopes. Chelsea When Frank Lampard was sacked in January, Chelsea were languishing in ninth place as a troubled season threatened to spiral out of control. However, the decision to hire Thomas Tuchel as Lampard's replacement proved inspired and the German has fourth-placed Chelsea nicely positioned to push on next season. Aided by Mason Mount's superb form, Tuchel has taken Chelsea to the Champions League final for the first time since 2012, with Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid unable to solve the tactical tweaks that made the Blues solid in defence and deadly on the counter-attack. Having healed the fractures in a squad divided by Lampard's methods, Tuchel has already masterminded two victories over City and one against Liverpool. To truly turn Chelsea into a force, the former Paris Saint Germain boss must solve the problems posed by the erratic form of expensive signings Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Hakim Ziyech.

Football: Who will challenge for Man City's Premier League crown next season?

Manchester City’s greatest-ever goal scorer and one of the finest forwards to have graced the English top-flight, Sergio Aguero is set to play his final game for the Blues at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. The Premier League 2020-21 season comes to a conclusion on Sunday and Manchester City will give a fitting farewell to the Argentine striker by lifting the Premier League trophy in front of 10,000 fans at the Etihad Stadium.<o:p></o:p>

While Aguero would still have one more match left for Man City in the final of UEFA Champions League, the match on Sunday, against Everton, will be his last in the Etihad Stadium as he bids farewell following a trophy-laden decade at the Premier League club.<o:p></o:p>

Aguero has scored a club-record 258 goals since joining from Atletico Madrid in 2011, winning five Premier League titles among other silverware.

<o:p></o:p>

Aguero was presented with a mosaic inspired by his first-ever Manchester City goal against Swansea City in 2011. The mosaic has been installed at the City Football Academy, beside a pitch that will now bear his name, having been dedicated to the Club’s all-time record goal-scorer.

The Argentine was also pictured with all 15 of the trophies he has won during his time here in Manchester, and also at the Northern Quarter where a mural of Sergio’s famous 93:20 moment has been painted.

Ahead of the final home match for Manchester City, Aguero thanked the Cityzens for ever-lasting support as he said the process becomes easier when a player is backed by the fans.

<o:p></o:p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Signed by the man himself. ✍️😍 <a href="https://twitter.com/aguerosergiokun?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aguerosergiokun</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManCity</a> <a href="https://t.co/GpyRUQ7fgO">pic.twitter.com/GpyRUQ7fgO</a>
— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) <a href="https://twitter.com/City_Xtra/status/1396162301204570116?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“My message to the fans is: ‘Thank you,’” Aguero told Man City’s official website. “Thank you to the City fans for always supporting me.<o:p></o:p>

“When you feel the love from your fans, everything is a lot easier. It’s the same for anyone in any line of work - when someone believes in you, you do better. I owe a lot to the people at this Club because I have the City fans to thank for everything.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-fifa-to-carry-out-study-on-holding-world-cup-every-two-years-386693" hreflang="en">Football: FIFA to carry out study on holding World Cup every two years</a><o:p></o:p>

“I remember being on the pitch and playing badly – games where I have played really badly – but it was incredible to see the fans still got behind me. I remember them shouting my name. I just want to say thank you and hope that they enjoy this moment.<o:p></o:p>

“I have always felt it (appreciation), even from Manchester United fans! I go out to eat and everyone always shows me a lot of respect.<o:p></o:p>

“It makes me really happy because I know that I have given my all for them. I have also met so many fans who are totally crazy about City, with tattoos, and I understand this kind of fanbase for a Club like this one."<o:p></o:p>

The Argentine has had an injury-hit final campaign and has missed the past two games, but manager Guardiola is confident he will be able to receive a rousing farewell from the 10,000 fans who will be at the Etihad this weekend.<o:p></o:p>

Aguero, fourth in the Premier League all-time scorers list with 182 goals, will forever be remembered for his injury-time strike that secured City's first Premier League title in 2012.The Argentine striker – the Club’s all-time record goalscorer – will don the City shirt for the final time at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, as the Champions welcome Everton in the Premier League’s season finale.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-man-citys-ruben-dias-named-fwa-player-of-the-year-386227" hreflang="en">Football: Man City's Ruben Dias named FWA Player of the Year</a><o:p></o:p>

With 10,000 supporters in attendance at the stadium for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, fans will be able to bid an emotional farewell to Kun, showing their appreciation for a remarkable career in blue.<o:p></o:p>

Aguero further recalled his best moment for Manchester City and his career – something he would want to relive – as he named the stoppage-time winner against Queens Park Rangers in 2012, which helped Manchester City win the Premier League for the first time in 44 years. <o:p></o:p>

“It is the best memory that I will ever have in my head,” he declared.

<o:p></o:p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🥺 <a href="https://twitter.com/aguerosergiokun?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AgueroSergioKun</a>'s last <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> game. 
🔝The 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙙𝙖𝙮 of the 20/21 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> season. 
🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> trophy lift at the Etihad Stadium. 
 
🥰 It’s only right... <a href="https://t.co/S85yUL2OcE">pic.twitter.com/S85yUL2OcE</a>
— Man City Report (@cityreport_) <a href="https://twitter.com/cityreport_/status/1396179096426721283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“I don’t think it will happen again in another country or in this one. It’s not something that can be repeated. For me, I don’t know if it was the best goal because obviously it was just another goal, but it was the best moment of my life.<o:p></o:p>

“Every time I watch the goal with my friends, or my son shows it to me and I watch with my family, it seems as though it was last year when actually a lot of time has passed but I will always remember this goal like it was yesterday.<o:p></o:p>

“It was just so crazy, so amazing. We won more titles after this one and those celebrations were the same but the celebrations that year were different, very different.<o:p></o:p>

“I remember that night we went with our families and everyone from the Club to party. We were all still in shock. We were saying: ‘This is crazy! We just won the Premier League and in the last minute!’<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;“I think we celebrated for two days in a row with all of our families and everyone at the Club. It was incredible. Two days of crazy partying but with family, people from the Club and with teammates.<o:p></o:p>

“Every time we saw each other, we would shout: ‘Champions, Champions!’ We were just so happy. It was a unique moment – different to everything else.<o:p></o:p>

“It was a dream. Obviously, in the game, we knew that we could win the league. We could have scored earlier and then you’re counting down the minutes waiting for the celebrations but it is a different kind of celebration when you score at the very end. It was total madness!”<o:p></o:p>

However, with UEFA Champions League final against Chelsea set to be played on May 29 in Porto, Aguero would be itching to have the perfect farewell by lifting the most important trophy in club football. <o:p></o:p>

Manchester City’s greatest-ever goal scorer and one of the finest forwards to have graced the English top-flight, Sergio Aguero is set to play his final game for the Blues at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

Manchester City’s greatest-ever goal scorer and one of the finest forwards to have graced the English top-flight, Sergio Aguero is set to play his final game for the Blues at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. The Premier League 2020-21 season comes to a conclusion on Sunday and Manchester City will give a fitting farewell to the Argentine striker by lifting the Premier League trophy in front of 10,000 fans at the Etihad Stadium. While Aguero would still have one more match left for Man City in the final of UEFA Champions League, the match on Sunday, against Everton, will be his last in the Etihad Stadium as he bids farewell following a trophy-laden decade at the Premier League club. Aguero has scored a club-record 258 goals since joining from Atletico Madrid in 2011, winning five Premier League titles among other silverware. Aguero was presented with a mosaic inspired by his first-ever Manchester City goal against Swansea City in 2011. The mosaic has been installed at the City Football Academy, beside a pitch that will now bear his name, having been dedicated to the Club’s all-time record goal-scorer. The Argentine was also pictured with all 15 of the trophies he has won during his time here in Manchester, and also at the Northern Quarter where a mural of Sergio’s famous 93:20 moment has been painted. Ahead of the final home match for Manchester City, Aguero thanked the Cityzens for ever-lasting support as he said the process becomes easier when a player is backed by the fans. Signed by the man himself. ✍️😍 @aguerosergiokun // @ManCity pic.twitter.com/GpyRUQ7fgO — City Xtra (@City_Xtra) May 22, 2021 × “My message to the fans is: ‘Thank you,’” Aguero told Man City’s official website. “Thank you to the City fans for always supporting me. “When you feel the love from your fans, everything is a lot easier. It’s the same for anyone in any line of work - when someone believes in you, you do better. I owe a lot to the people at this Club because I have the City fans to thank for everything. ALSO READ: Football: FIFA to carry out study on holding World Cup every two years “I remember being on the pitch and playing badly – games where I have played really badly – but it was incredible to see the fans still got behind me. I remember them shouting my name. I just want to say thank you and hope that they enjoy this moment. “I have always felt it (appreciation), even from Manchester United fans! I go out to eat and everyone always shows me a lot of respect. “It makes me really happy because I know that I have given my all for them. I have also met so many fans who are totally crazy about City, with tattoos, and I understand this kind of fanbase for a Club like this one." The Argentine has had an injury-hit final campaign and has missed the past two games, but manager Guardiola is confident he will be able to receive a rousing farewell from the 10,000 fans who will be at the Etihad this weekend. Aguero, fourth in the Premier League all-time scorers list with 182 goals, will forever be remembered for his injury-time strike that secured City's first Premier League title in 2012.The Argentine striker – the Club’s all-time record goalscorer – will don the City shirt for the final time at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, as the Champions welcome Everton in the Premier League’s season finale. ALSO READ: Football: Man City's Ruben Dias named FWA Player of the Year With 10,000 supporters in attendance at the stadium for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, fans will be able to bid an emotional farewell to Kun, showing their appreciation for a remarkable career in blue. Aguero further recalled his best moment for Manchester City and his career – something he would want to relive – as he named the stoppage-time winner against Queens Park Rangers in 2012, which helped Manchester City win the Premier League for the first time in 44 years. “It is the best memory that I will ever have in my head,” he declared. 🥺 @AgueroSergioKun's last #PL game. 🔝The 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙙𝙖𝙮 of the 20/21 #PL season. 🏆 #PL trophy lift at the Etihad Stadium. 🥰 It’s only right... pic.twitter.com/S85yUL2OcE — Man City Report (@cityreport_) May 22, 2021 × “I don’t think it will happen again in another country or in this one. It’s not something that can be repeated. For me, I don’t know if it was the best goal because obviously it was just another goal, but it was the best moment of my life. “Every time I watch the goal with my friends, or my son shows it to me and I watch with my family, it seems as though it was last year when actually a lot of time has passed but I will always remember this goal like it was yesterday. “It was just so crazy, so amazing. We won more titles after this one and those celebrations were the same but the celebrations that year were different, very different. “I remember that night we went with our families and everyone from the Club to party. We were all still in shock. We were saying: ‘This is crazy! We just won the Premier League and in the last minute!’ “I think we celebrated for two days in a row with all of our families and everyone at the Club. It was incredible. Two days of crazy partying but with family, people from the Club and with teammates. “Every time we saw each other, we would shout: ‘Champions, Champions!’ We were just so happy. It was a unique moment – different to everything else. “It was a dream. Obviously, in the game, we knew that we could win the league. We could have scored earlier and then you’re counting down the minutes waiting for the celebrations but it is a different kind of celebration when you score at the very end. It was total madness!” However, with UEFA Champions League final against Chelsea set to be played on May 29 in Porto, Aguero would be itching to have the perfect farewell by lifting the most important trophy in club football.

'Best moment of my life': Sergio Aguero recalls stoppage-time winner vs QPR as he ends decade-long stay at Man City

An acrobatic late strike from Antoine Griezmann saw Barcelona confirm their third-place finish in La Liga on Saturday, as they crept past already relegated Eibar 1-0 in their last match of the season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-atletico-madrid-clinch-la-liga-title-thanks-to-suarez-winner-386789" hreflang="en">Football: Atletico Madrid clinch La Liga title thanks to Suarez winner</a>

They end the campaign on 79 points, seven behind champions Atletico Madrid and five off second-placed Real Madrid.

"We didn't do the business in important games this season," matchwinner Griezmann said.

"Of course I'm happy with the goal but still disappointed with how the league campaign has gone. We weren't good at the start of the campaign but we've been almost perfect in 2021.

"I'm happy for Atletico, for (coach) Diego Simeone, Koke, for my friends there and their fans. They deserve it."

Coach Ronald Koeman named a much-changed starting XI, with Lionel Messi, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Gerard Pique, Clement Lenglet, Jordi Alba and Pedri all absent, and initially it showed in a somewhat disjointed first half.

Defender Oscar Mingueza was required to make a crucial block early on as Sergi Enrich bore down on goal after Frenkie de Jong lost the ball in a dangerous area, in an otherwise uneventful first 45 minutes.

With the game seemingly destined for a draw, it sparked to life in the closing stages.

On 81 minutes Griezmann smashed in from an acute angle following good work from Ousmane Dembele down the right-hand side.

Barca were given a scare four minutes from time when Takashi Inui saw an effort smash back off the crossbar, however the Catalans held out to secure the three points.

Eibar, meanwhile, finish bottom of the table on 30 points and return to the second-tier Segunda after seven years in Spain's top flight.

An acrobatic late strike from Antoine Griezmann saw Barcelona confirm their third-place finish in La Liga on Saturday, as they crept past already relegated Eibar 1-0 in their last match of the season.

An acrobatic late strike from Antoine Griezmann saw Barcelona confirm their third-place finish in La Liga on Saturday, as they crept past already relegated Eibar 1-0 in their last match of the season. ALSO READ: Football: Atletico Madrid clinch La Liga title thanks to Suarez winner They end the campaign on 79 points, seven behind champions Atletico Madrid and five off second-placed Real Madrid. "We didn't do the business in important games this season," matchwinner Griezmann said. "Of course I'm happy with the goal but still disappointed with how the league campaign has gone. We weren't good at the start of the campaign but we've been almost perfect in 2021. "I'm happy for Atletico, for (coach) Diego Simeone, Koke, for my friends there and their fans. They deserve it." Coach Ronald Koeman named a much-changed starting XI, with Lionel Messi, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Gerard Pique, Clement Lenglet, Jordi Alba and Pedri all absent, and initially it showed in a somewhat disjointed first half. Defender Oscar Mingueza was required to make a crucial block early on as Sergi Enrich bore down on goal after Frenkie de Jong lost the ball in a dangerous area, in an otherwise uneventful first 45 minutes. With the game seemingly destined for a draw, it sparked to life in the closing stages. On 81 minutes Griezmann smashed in from an acute angle following good work from Ousmane Dembele down the right-hand side. Barca were given a scare four minutes from time when Takashi Inui saw an effort smash back off the crossbar, however the Catalans held out to secure the three points. Eibar, meanwhile, finish bottom of the table on 30 points and return to the second-tier Segunda after seven years in Spain's top flight.

Football: Griezmann strike secures third place for Barca in La Liga

Manchester City have become the first club to win a hat-trick of Premier League titles in the same season and the three managers – Pep Guardiola, Enzo Maresca and Carlos Vicens – have been photographed together with their respective trophies.<o:p></o:p>

The first of Man City’s successes was confirmed in April when Maresca’s Elite Development Squad won the Club’s first-ever PL2 title. That was followed up three weeks later when Guardiola’s first team secured the Premier League title for the third time in four years. And on Saturday, Manchester City U18s were crowned 2020/21 U18 Premier League National champions as Vicens’ side sealed the prestigious title with a superb 3-1 victory over Fulham.<o:p></o:p>

It means Manchester City are the first Club to win U18 league titles (both regional and national), the Premier League 2 and the Premier League in the same season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-moment-of-my-life-sergio-aguero-recalls-stoppage-time-winner-vs-qpr-as-he-ends-decade-long-stay-at-man-city-386854" hreflang="en">'Best moment of my life': Sergio Aguero recalls stoppage-time winner vs QPR as he ends decade-long stay at Man City</a><o:p></o:p>

Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City will lift the Premier League trophy on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium, where 10,000 fans will be present for the first time in 15 months. The occasion will also mark Sergio Aguero’s last appearance in Manchester City colours at the Etihad Stadium as the Argentine striker – club’s greatest goalscorer - ends a trophy-laden decade-long stay at the club.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-andrea-pirlo-says-his-juventus-future-does-not-depend-on-top-four-finish-386848" hreflang="en">Football: Andrea Pirlo says his Juventus future does not depend on top-four finish</a><o:p></o:p>

Man City’s first team will also eye their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy next weekend when they take on Chelsea in the final in Porto. <o:p></o:p>

Manchester City have become the first club to win a hat-trick of Premier League titles in the same season and the three managers – Pep Guardiola, Enzo Maresca and Carlos Vicens – have been photographed together with their respective trophies.

Manchester City have become the first club to win a hat-trick of Premier League titles in the same season and the three managers – Pep Guardiola, Enzo Maresca and Carlos Vicens – have been photographed together with their respective trophies. The first of Man City’s successes was confirmed in April when Maresca’s Elite Development Squad won the Club’s first-ever PL2 title. That was followed up three weeks later when Guardiola’s first team secured the Premier League title for the third time in four years. And on Saturday, Manchester City U18s were crowned 2020/21 U18 Premier League National champions as Vicens’ side sealed the prestigious title with a superb 3-1 victory over Fulham. It means Manchester City are the first Club to win U18 league titles (both regional and national), the Premier League 2 and the Premier League in the same season. ALSO READ: 'Best moment of my life': Sergio Aguero recalls stoppage-time winner vs QPR as he ends decade-long stay at Man City Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City will lift the Premier League trophy on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium, where 10,000 fans will be present for the first time in 15 months. The occasion will also mark Sergio Aguero’s last appearance in Manchester City colours at the Etihad Stadium as the Argentine striker – club’s greatest goalscorer - ends a trophy-laden decade-long stay at the club. ALSO READ: Football: Andrea Pirlo says his Juventus future does not depend on top-four finish Man City’s first team will also eye their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy next weekend when they take on Chelsea in the final in Porto.

Football: Manchester City win hat-trick of Premier League titles

Borussia Dortmund striker Erling&nbsp;Haaland&nbsp;scored twice as his team beat Bayer Leverkusen 3-1 on Saturday to finish the season in third place.

The Norwegian put the hosts in front only five minutes into the match and bagged his 27th league goal six minutes from time.

After the early goal, Leverkusen managed to get back into the game but six minutes after the restart it was Dortmund captain Marc Reus' turn to score with a free-kick sailing in at the far post.

Lars Bender scored with an 89th-minute penalty for Leverkusen in the former Germany international's final game before retiring.

It was also a happy finale for Dortmund coach Edin Terzic, who took over midway through the season and helped them secure a Champions League spot for next season and steered them to victory in the German Cup.

Terzic is leaving to make way for Marco Rose next season.

Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland scored twice as his team beat Bayer Leverkusen 3-1 on Saturday to finish the season in third place. The Norwegian put the hosts in front only five minutes into the match and bagged his 27th league goal six minutes from time.

Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland scored twice as his team beat Bayer Leverkusen 3-1 on Saturday to finish the season in third place. The Norwegian put the hosts in front only five minutes into the match and bagged his 27th league goal six minutes from time. After the early goal, Leverkusen managed to get back into the game but six minutes after the restart it was Dortmund captain Marc Reus' turn to score with a free-kick sailing in at the far post. Lars Bender scored with an 89th-minute penalty for Leverkusen in the former Germany international's final game before retiring. It was also a happy finale for Dortmund coach Edin Terzic, who took over midway through the season and helped them secure a Champions League spot for next season and steered them to victory in the German Cup. Terzic is leaving to make way for Marco Rose next season.

Football: Erling Haaland double earns Dortmund win over Leverkusen in season finale

Chelsea are set to be without Andreas Christensen, N'Golo Kante, and Kai Havertz for their last Premier League round&nbsp;against Aston Villa at Villa Park on Sunday. A couple of Chelsea stars are battling with hamstring issues ahead of the Aston Villa match.&nbsp;

Chelsea will head into Sunday's down against Aston Villa realising that solitary triumph against Dean Smith's side will promise them Champions League capability for next season.&nbsp;

Thomas Tuchel will perspire over the fitness of some of his players as he will have one eye on Chelsea's Champions League last against Manchester City on May 30.

Andreas Christensen has missed Chelsea's last three games because of a hamstring injury that he endured during the Blues' 2-1 triumph over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. Thomas Tuchel, nonetheless, affirmed that Christensen could make his return against Aston Villa during a pre-match press conference on Friday.&nbsp;

N'Golo Kante has been in peremptory structure for Chelsea. He has placed in various game-dominating showcases for the Blues lately. N'Golo Kante was constrained off against Leicester City on Tuesday because of a hamstring issue.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-manchester-uniteds-marcus-rashford-reveals-ideal-transfer-move-in-future-386846" hreflang="en">Football: Manchester United's Marcus Rashford reveals ideal transfer move in future</a>&nbsp;

Thomas Tuchel uncovered that N'Golo Kante's condition is&nbsp;tricky and that he could in any case highlight against Aston Villa.&nbsp;

The Chelsea boss will sweat over the fitness of some of his players as he will have one eye on Chelsea's Champions League last against Manchester City on May 30.

"With NG Kante it's going to be very close, but there are some hopes he joins the team training on Friday. If not, he will join on Monday," said Tuchel.

German forward Kai&nbsp;Havertz is additionally encountering hamstring issues. Thomas Tuchel has not precluded Havertz for the game on Sunday however has said the club should run a few tests on the former Bayer Leverkusen man.&nbsp;

"Kai did a test today and will be tried in the group tomorrow," the Chelsea supervisor said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-moment-of-my-life-sergio-aguero-recalls-stoppage-time-winner-vs-qpr-as-he-ends-decade-long-stay-at-man-city-386854" hreflang="en">'Best moment of my life': Sergio Aguero recalls stoppage-time winner vs QPR as he ends decade-long stay at Man City</a>

Notwithstanding having a Champions League finale against Manchester City on May 30, Thomas Tuchel is probably not going to handle a debilitated beginning XI against Aston Villa on Sunday.&nbsp;

The German will be quick to get the programmed capability to the Champions League by guaranteeing a triumph over Dean Smith's side at Villa Park. Thomas Tuchel will likewise be anxious to direct Chelsea to a third-place finish in the Premier League table, and enhancement for their fourth-place finish from last season.

Chelsea are set to be without Andreas Christensen, N'Golo Kante, and Kai Havertz for their last Premier League round against Aston Villa at Villa Park on Sunday.

Chelsea are set to be without Andreas Christensen, N'Golo Kante, and Kai Havertz for their last Premier League round against Aston Villa at Villa Park on Sunday. A couple of Chelsea stars are battling with hamstring issues ahead of the Aston Villa match. Chelsea will head into Sunday's down against Aston Villa realising that solitary triumph against Dean Smith's side will promise them Champions League capability for next season. Thomas Tuchel will perspire over the fitness of some of his players as he will have one eye on Chelsea's Champions League last against Manchester City on May 30. Andreas Christensen has missed Chelsea's last three games because of a hamstring injury that he endured during the Blues' 2-1 triumph over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. Thomas Tuchel, nonetheless, affirmed that Christensen could make his return against Aston Villa during a pre-match press conference on Friday. N'Golo Kante has been in peremptory structure for Chelsea. He has placed in various game-dominating showcases for the Blues lately. N'Golo Kante was constrained off against Leicester City on Tuesday because of a hamstring issue. ALSO READ: Football: Manchester United's Marcus Rashford reveals ideal transfer move in future Thomas Tuchel uncovered that N'Golo Kante's condition is tricky and that he could in any case highlight against Aston Villa. The Chelsea boss will sweat over the fitness of some of his players as he will have one eye on Chelsea's Champions League last against Manchester City on May 30. "With NG Kante it's going to be very close, but there are some hopes he joins the team training on Friday. If not, he will join on Monday," said Tuchel. German forward Kai Havertz is additionally encountering hamstring issues. Thomas Tuchel has not precluded Havertz for the game on Sunday however has said the club should run a few tests on the former Bayer Leverkusen man. "Kai did a test today and will be tried in the group tomorrow," the Chelsea supervisor said. ALSO READ: 'Best moment of my life': Sergio Aguero recalls stoppage-time winner vs QPR as he ends decade-long stay at Man City Notwithstanding having a Champions League finale against Manchester City on May 30, Thomas Tuchel is probably not going to handle a debilitated beginning XI against Aston Villa on Sunday. The German will be quick to get the programmed capability to the Champions League by guaranteeing a triumph over Dean Smith's side at Villa Park. Thomas Tuchel will likewise be anxious to direct Chelsea to a third-place finish in the Premier League table, and enhancement for their fourth-place finish from last season.

Football: Thomas Tuchel stressing over fitness of Chelsea players ahead of Aston Villa match

Andrea Pirlo believes Champions League qualification will not be the decisive factor in whether Juventus decide to keep him on as coach for next season.

To clinch a top-four finish, the Turin club must win their final game in Bologna on Sunday and hope AC Milan or Napoli drop points in their games against Atalanta and Hellas Verona.

Failure to reach European soccer’s top club competition would be an enormous disappointment for Juve, winners of nine consecutive league titles before this season, and the situation has resulted in speculation that Pirlo will be replaced.

"I do not think the club will decide based on what happens tomorrow. I think they have an idea of what has been done over the season, what went well and badly," Pirlo told a news conference on Saturday.

"They do not take decisions based on the last match or on one result. It is up to them to decide we will see what happens.

"I like doing this job, it is normal that I would reconfirm my position because I like having this adrenaline and pressure.

"You need to feel the blood running through your veins and I want to continue working with this squad and this club."

Juventus travel to Bologna in a confident mood after beating Atalanta on Wednesday in the Coppa Italia final.

It marked a third consecutive win for Pirlo’s side since a 3-0 defeat by AC Milan earlier in May threatened to derail their top-four hopes.

"We believe. We were dead and buried after the Milan game, but picked ourselves up again. We did that on our own, but the results of other teams also brought us back to life,” Pirlo said.

"We must think first of all about ourselves, looking to play a great game and win, and then see what the others do."

Pirlo also addressed media speculation that Cristiano Ronaldo could depart Juventus if they fail to reach the Champions League.

"I see him still in a black and white shirt and focused," he said.

"He showed that the other night by making sacrifices and chasing because he wanted to win the cup."

Andrea Pirlo believes Champions League qualification will not be the decisive factor in whether Juventus decide to keep him on as coach for next season. To clinch a top-four finish, the Turin club must win their final game in Bologna on Sunday and hope AC Milan or Napoli drop points in their games against Atalanta and Hellas Verona.

Andrea Pirlo believes Champions League qualification will not be the decisive factor in whether Juventus decide to keep him on as coach for next season. To clinch a top-four finish, the Turin club must win their final game in Bologna on Sunday and hope AC Milan or Napoli drop points in their games against Atalanta and Hellas Verona. Failure to reach European soccer’s top club competition would be an enormous disappointment for Juve, winners of nine consecutive league titles before this season, and the situation has resulted in speculation that Pirlo will be replaced. "I do not think the club will decide based on what happens tomorrow. I think they have an idea of what has been done over the season, what went well and badly," Pirlo told a news conference on Saturday. "They do not take decisions based on the last match or on one result. It is up to them to decide we will see what happens. "I like doing this job, it is normal that I would reconfirm my position because I like having this adrenaline and pressure. "You need to feel the blood running through your veins and I want to continue working with this squad and this club." Juventus travel to Bologna in a confident mood after beating Atalanta on Wednesday in the Coppa Italia final. It marked a third consecutive win for Pirlo’s side since a 3-0 defeat by AC Milan earlier in May threatened to derail their top-four hopes. "We believe. We were dead and buried after the Milan game, but picked ourselves up again. We did that on our own, but the results of other teams also brought us back to life,” Pirlo said. "We must think first of all about ourselves, looking to play a great game and win, and then see what the others do." Pirlo also addressed media speculation that Cristiano Ronaldo could depart Juventus if they fail to reach the Champions League. "I see him still in a black and white shirt and focused," he said. "He showed that the other night by making sacrifices and chasing because he wanted to win the cup."

Football: Andrea Pirlo says his Juventus future does not depend on top-four finish

Ronald Koeman has blamed club president Joan Laporta for lacking admiration in the midst of bits of rumours with respect to the Dutchman's future at Barcelona.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-city-star-sergio-aguero-set-to-join-barcelona-on-two-year-contract-386668" hreflang="en">Man City star Sergio Aguero set to join Barcelona on two-year contract</a>

Barcelona persevered through a grim beginning to their 2020-21 mission. The Catalans were in the fourteenth spot in the La Liga table in November and completed second in the Champions League group behind Juventus. The Spanish goliaths were then taken out of the Champions League in the round-of-16 phase by PSG.

In spite of various misfortunes, Ronald Koeman directed a huge turnaround in his group's fortunes halfway through the season.&nbsp;

A noteworthy run of results in La Liga in the long stretches of January, February and March set Barcelona in a place to mount a genuine test for the title. Ronald Koeman's side travelled to a 4-0 triumph in the last of the Copa Del Rey against Athletic Bilbao in April to guarantee their first trophy under the Dutchman.&nbsp;

Be that as it may, a run of only one triumph in their last five La Liga games has successfully precluded Barcelona's odds of winning the title on the last day of the season.&nbsp;

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has affirmed that 'several decisions' should be made as the club seeks battle for flatware next season. Laporta is apparently considering terminating Ronald Koeman regardless of the advancement Barcelona has made under the Dutchman.&nbsp;

Ronald Koeman has pummeled Joan Laporta for his new remarks and blamed the Barcelona president for lacking appreciation.

"You need to respect your coach and players more. In the last part of the season, I've not felt the support of the club. Things have come out in the press. They don't deserve that kind of treatment, things should be done differently" - he said&nbsp;

"I know there's a lot of pressure here and I accept this, but sometimes I think in this country there's much more of a culture with the media getting involved with a coach's future, which I think is disrespectful" - he said.

"I don't know if I will continue as coach, to be honest. I've not spoken with the president. I know we need to make changes in order to win trophies and if that means a new coach or players then fine, but it needs to be communicated" - he added.

Notwithstanding Barcelona being not able to challenge for the La Liga title on the last day of the season, Ronald Koeman has gained colossal headway at the Camp Nou. Barcelona was a club in the disturbance on and off the pitch preceding the Dutchman assuming control over the rules at the club the previous summer.&nbsp;

Ronald Koeman will require the help of the club's progressive system and a transfer plan to construct a group that will challenge for flatware next season. 
&nbsp;

Ronald Koeman has blamed club president Joan Laporta for lacking admiration in the midst of bits of rumours with respect to the Dutchman's future at Barcelona. ALSO READ: Man City star Sergio Aguero set to join Barcelona on two-year contract Barcelona persevered through a grim beginning to their 2020-21 mission.

Ronald Koeman has blamed club president Joan Laporta for lacking admiration in the midst of bits of rumours with respect to the Dutchman's future at Barcelona. ALSO READ: Man City star Sergio Aguero set to join Barcelona on two-year contract Barcelona persevered through a grim beginning to their 2020-21 mission. The Catalans were in the fourteenth spot in the La Liga table in November and completed second in the Champions League group behind Juventus. The Spanish goliaths were then taken out of the Champions League in the round-of-16 phase by PSG. In spite of various misfortunes, Ronald Koeman directed a huge turnaround in his group's fortunes halfway through the season. A noteworthy run of results in La Liga in the long stretches of January, February and March set Barcelona in a place to mount a genuine test for the title. Ronald Koeman's side travelled to a 4-0 triumph in the last of the Copa Del Rey against Athletic Bilbao in April to guarantee their first trophy under the Dutchman. Be that as it may, a run of only one triumph in their last five La Liga games has successfully precluded Barcelona's odds of winning the title on the last day of the season. Barcelona president Joan Laporta has affirmed that 'several decisions' should be made as the club seeks battle for flatware next season. Laporta is apparently considering terminating Ronald Koeman regardless of the advancement Barcelona has made under the Dutchman. Ronald Koeman has pummeled Joan Laporta for his new remarks and blamed the Barcelona president for lacking appreciation. "You need to respect your coach and players more. In the last part of the season, I've not felt the support of the club. Things have come out in the press. They don't deserve that kind of treatment, things should be done differently" - he said "I know there's a lot of pressure here and I accept this, but sometimes I think in this country there's much more of a culture with the media getting involved with a coach's future, which I think is disrespectful" - he said. "I don't know if I will continue as coach, to be honest. I've not spoken with the president. I know we need to make changes in order to win trophies and if that means a new coach or players then fine, but it needs to be communicated" - he added. Notwithstanding Barcelona being not able to challenge for the La Liga title on the last day of the season, Ronald Koeman has gained colossal headway at the Camp Nou. Barcelona was a club in the disturbance on and off the pitch preceding the Dutchman assuming control over the rules at the club the previous summer. Ronald Koeman will require the help of the club's progressive system and a transfer plan to construct a group that will challenge for flatware next season.

Football- 'You need to respect your coach': Ronald Koeman hits out at Barcelona president Joan Laporta

Bruno Fernandes has revealed that he might want to play close by Polish global Piotr Zielinski. In an interaction with Canal Plus Sport, Manchester United's Player of the Year said that he is as yet in contact with Zielinski and considered him a 'top player'. Fernandes said:

“I spoke to him a few months ago and told him that I would like to play with him again. So, who knows what the future has waiting for us. For me, he is a really, really top player.”

Bruno Fernandes and Piotr Zielinski played together at Udinese in Serie A from 2013 to 2016, preceding he left to play for Sporting Lisbon while Zielinski moved to Napoli.

Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes has commended Piotr Zielinski. As indicated by the Portuguese, Zielinski was better prepared and more trained contrasted with him during their time together at Udinese. Bruno Fernandes said:&nbsp;

“Technically, I can say that Zieliński is better trained than I am. We had a good challenge. I think in the past, Zieliński was actually a bit shy. He was really young then, just like me, at that time.”

Fernandes has said that notwithstanding both he and Zielinski coming from different foundations, the pair bit by bit became companions and have kept a solid relationship off the field since.&nbsp;

“However, we came from different countries, different mentality, and it was different for both of us. I have a really good relationship with Piotr. He’s a top guy, I like him a lot.

He is one of the people I met in Italy with whom I am in touch all the time." 
In spite of freely conceding that he might want to play close by Piotr Zielinski, the 26-year-old neglected to specify at what club he might want that to occur. Notwithstanding, with Bruno Fernandes' Manchester United agreement set to run until the late spring of 2025, it is protected to expect that the Portuguese would adore his bosses to sign Zielinski from Napoli.&nbsp;

Having joined Napoli from Udinese in 2016, Piotr Zielinski has splayed 238 times for the Italian side, scoring 32 goals. 
&nbsp;

Bruno Fernandes has revealed that he might want to play close by Polish global Piotr Zielinski. In an interaction with Canal Plus Sport, Manchester United's Player of the Year said that he is as yet in contact with Zielinski and considered him a 'top player'.

Bruno Fernandes has revealed that he might want to play close by Polish global Piotr Zielinski. In an interaction with Canal Plus Sport, Manchester United's Player of the Year said that he is as yet in contact with Zielinski and considered him a 'top player'. Fernandes said: “I spoke to him a few months ago and told him that I would like to play with him again. So, who knows what the future has waiting for us. For me, he is a really, really top player.” Bruno Fernandes and Piotr Zielinski played together at Udinese in Serie A from 2013 to 2016, preceding he left to play for Sporting Lisbon while Zielinski moved to Napoli. Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes has commended Piotr Zielinski. As indicated by the Portuguese, Zielinski was better prepared and more trained contrasted with him during their time together at Udinese. Bruno Fernandes said: “Technically, I can say that Zieliński is better trained than I am. We had a good challenge. I think in the past, Zieliński was actually a bit shy. He was really young then, just like me, at that time.” Fernandes has said that notwithstanding both he and Zielinski coming from different foundations, the pair bit by bit became companions and have kept a solid relationship off the field since. “However, we came from different countries, different mentality, and it was different for both of us. I have a really good relationship with Piotr. He’s a top guy, I like him a lot. He is one of the people I met in Italy with whom I am in touch all the time." In spite of freely conceding that he might want to play close by Piotr Zielinski, the 26-year-old neglected to specify at what club he might want that to occur. Notwithstanding, with Bruno Fernandes' Manchester United agreement set to run until the late spring of 2025, it is protected to expect that the Portuguese would adore his bosses to sign Zielinski from Napoli. Having joined Napoli from Udinese in 2016, Piotr Zielinski has splayed 238 times for the Italian side, scoring 32 goals.

Football- 'He is a top player': Bruno Fernandes wants Piotr Zielinski link-up

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