Chelsea forward Fran Kirby was on Friday named the&nbsp;Football Writers' Association's Women's&nbsp;Footballer of the Year, making her the first player to win the award twice.

The 27-year-old Kirby, who was the inaugural winner of the honor in 2018, scored 25 goals and provided 18 assists in all competitions to help Chelsea win the FA Women's Super League title and reach the Champions League final.

Chelsea revealed last year that the England international had been out of action since November 2019 because she had been diagnosed with a heart condition called pericarditis.

She returned after six months on the sidelines.

Kirby's personality and attitude had unified fans and media professionals, said Jen O'Neill, the chair of the FWA's women's sub-committee.

"To have overcome a serious health condition and return in such sparkling form is admirable and inspiring," O'Neill said in a statement http://footballwriters.co.uk/editorial/fran-kirby-is-womens-footballer-of-the-year.

"Several players, including many of her Chelsea teammates, have been outstanding in a superb WSL season but there are fewer more joyful sights in&nbsp;football than a smiling, fit, and firing Kirby."

The winner is chosen by a panel of more than 30 experts who specialize in the women's game.

Kirby can help Chelsea add to their trophy haul, which also includes the League Cup, when the club faces Barcelona in Sunday's Champions League final in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Chelsea forward Fran Kirby was on Friday named the Football Writers' Association's Women's Footballer of the Year, making her the first player to win the award twice.

Chelsea forward Fran Kirby was on Friday named the Football Writers' Association's Women's Footballer of the Year, making her the first player to win the award twice. The 27-year-old Kirby, who was the inaugural winner of the honor in 2018, scored 25 goals and provided 18 assists in all competitions to help Chelsea win the FA Women's Super League title and reach the Champions League final. Chelsea revealed last year that the England international had been out of action since November 2019 because she had been diagnosed with a heart condition called pericarditis. She returned after six months on the sidelines. Kirby's personality and attitude had unified fans and media professionals, said Jen O'Neill, the chair of the FWA's women's sub-committee. "To have overcome a serious health condition and return in such sparkling form is admirable and inspiring," O'Neill said in a statement http://footballwriters.co.uk/editorial/fran-kirby-is-womens-footballer-of-the-year. "Several players, including many of her Chelsea teammates, have been outstanding in a superb WSL season but there are fewer more joyful sights in football than a smiling, fit, and firing Kirby." The winner is chosen by a panel of more than 30 experts who specialize in the women's game. Kirby can help Chelsea add to their trophy haul, which also includes the League Cup, when the club faces Barcelona in Sunday's Champions League final in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Fran Kirby named FWA Women's Footballer of the Year

Doctors are predicting that Netherlands defender Daley Blind will recover from injury and be ready for the European Championship, coach Frank de Boer said.

The 31-year-old was included on Friday in a provisional squad that De Boer named for the tournament despite not playing since March when he hurt both his ankle and knee in a World Cup qualifying win over Gibraltar.

Blind had surgery to repair torn ankle ligaments, ruling him out of the rest of the Dutch league season, but is in line for a return next month.

"We assume that Daley will make it, given the forecasts of the doctors," said De Boer. "He is also positive about it. But it may be that he is only available during the tournament if he suffers a setback."

Blind's experience could be key for the Dutch in the tournament, where they are drawn against Austria, North Macedonia, and Ukraine, especially after Virgil van Dijk ruled himself out earlier in the week after deciding not to risk his recovery from a long-term knee injury.

"It is especially sad for him. He has never played a final tournament. But the European Championship is just too early for him," said De Boer.

"Let's hope we qualify for the World Cup in Qatar, so he can be there."

Doctors are predicting that Netherlands defender Daley Blind will recover from injury and be ready for the European Championship, coach Frank de Boer said. The 31-year-old was included on Friday in a provisional squad that De Boer named for the tournament despite not playing since March when he hurt both his ankle and knee in a World Cup qualifying win over Gibraltar.

Doctors are predicting that Netherlands defender Daley Blind will recover from injury and be ready for the European Championship, coach Frank de Boer said. The 31-year-old was included on Friday in a provisional squad that De Boer named for the tournament despite not playing since March when he hurt both his ankle and knee in a World Cup qualifying win over Gibraltar. Blind had surgery to repair torn ankle ligaments, ruling him out of the rest of the Dutch league season, but is in line for a return next month. "We assume that Daley will make it, given the forecasts of the doctors," said De Boer. "He is also positive about it. But it may be that he is only available during the tournament if he suffers a setback." Blind's experience could be key for the Dutch in the tournament, where they are drawn against Austria, North Macedonia, and Ukraine, especially after Virgil van Dijk ruled himself out earlier in the week after deciding not to risk his recovery from a long-term knee injury. "It is especially sad for him. He has never played a final tournament. But the European Championship is just too early for him," said De Boer. "Let's hope we qualify for the World Cup in Qatar, so he can be there."

Daley Blind likely to be back for Euro 2020, says Frank de Boer

Fleet-footed Norwegian winger Guro Reiten joined Chelsea to play in the biggest club games possible, and on Sunday her dream will come true as they take on Barcelona in the Champions League final in Gothenburg.&nbsp;

Reiten had already reached the top in Norway, winning three league titles with LSK and twice finishing as the league’s top scorer, but the move to London in 2019 to a club with Chelsea’s resources has been a big step up.&nbsp;

"What is similar is the desire to win, to sacrifice everything to win regardless, but the conditions here for winning are very different," Reiten told Reuters.&nbsp;

“It’s much more professional day-to-day at Chelsea, everything is perfectly set up so you can succeed. There is nothing we don’t have access to in terms of resources - you just have to show up and everything is ready for you, you only have to focus on what you are going to do on the pitch.”

The 26-year-old signed for Chelsea ahead of the 2019 World Cup in France, where Norway was knocked out by England at the quarter-final stage, and she was impressed by the attention to detail once she joined her new club.&nbsp;

“We have sleep experts, menstruation experts, psychologists... they keep an eye on everything, all the way. It’s very detailed,” she explained.

The facilities were not the only thing she had to get used to in England.&nbsp;

"The English league is high-tempo, a physically tough league, so I’ve learned to make decisions quicker, but with quality at the same time... in my first week in England I found myself lying in the grass after a tackle and (Chelsea center-back) Millie Bright just said ‘welcome to England’!”

Chelsea edged out Bayern Munich to make it to the Champions League final for the first time, and Reiten is one of a number of Nordic players in the Chelsea squad who has been looking forward to playing in Sweden.&nbsp;

“It’s funny that it’s in Sweden because we talked about it this season, that maybe it was meant to be since we’re a big group of Scandies here,” said Reiten, who is disappointed that there will be no fans in attendance due to Swedish COVID-19 restrictions. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

“Especially this game, it’s probably going to be one of the biggest games we’ll ever play, and not being able to have our family and friends there, it’s sad.”

Barcelona may be favorites with the bookmakers, but Chelsea go into the final full of self-belief due to the bonds created during the pandemic.&nbsp;

“We have so many great players with different qualities, we push each other every day. We have great coaches, great staff, but I would also say great people,” Reiten says. &nbsp;

“This year has been a struggle for all of us, not being able to go home and COVID and everything, so we’ve not only been each other’s team mates, we’ve been each other’s family, and that has made us a strong group.”&nbsp;

Fleet-footed Norwegian winger Guro Reiten joined Chelsea to play in the biggest club games possible, and on Sunday her dream will come true as they take on Barcelona in the Champions League final in Gothenburg.

Fleet-footed Norwegian winger Guro Reiten joined Chelsea to play in the biggest club games possible, and on Sunday her dream will come true as they take on Barcelona in the Champions League final in Gothenburg. Reiten had already reached the top in Norway, winning three league titles with LSK and twice finishing as the league’s top scorer, but the move to London in 2019 to a club with Chelsea’s resources has been a big step up. "What is similar is the desire to win, to sacrifice everything to win regardless, but the conditions here for winning are very different," Reiten told Reuters. “It’s much more professional day-to-day at Chelsea, everything is perfectly set up so you can succeed. There is nothing we don’t have access to in terms of resources - you just have to show up and everything is ready for you, you only have to focus on what you are going to do on the pitch.” The 26-year-old signed for Chelsea ahead of the 2019 World Cup in France, where Norway was knocked out by England at the quarter-final stage, and she was impressed by the attention to detail once she joined her new club. “We have sleep experts, menstruation experts, psychologists... they keep an eye on everything, all the way. It’s very detailed,” she explained. The facilities were not the only thing she had to get used to in England. "The English league is high-tempo, a physically tough league, so I’ve learned to make decisions quicker, but with quality at the same time... in my first week in England I found myself lying in the grass after a tackle and (Chelsea center-back) Millie Bright just said ‘welcome to England’!” Chelsea edged out Bayern Munich to make it to the Champions League final for the first time, and Reiten is one of a number of Nordic players in the Chelsea squad who has been looking forward to playing in Sweden. “It’s funny that it’s in Sweden because we talked about it this season, that maybe it was meant to be since we’re a big group of Scandies here,” said Reiten, who is disappointed that there will be no fans in attendance due to Swedish COVID-19 restrictions. “Especially this game, it’s probably going to be one of the biggest games we’ll ever play, and not being able to have our family and friends there, it’s sad.” Barcelona may be favorites with the bookmakers, but Chelsea go into the final full of self-belief due to the bonds created during the pandemic. “We have so many great players with different qualities, we push each other every day. We have great coaches, great staff, but I would also say great people,” Reiten says. “This year has been a struggle for all of us, not being able to go home and COVID and everything, so we’ve not only been each other’s team mates, we’ve been each other’s family, and that has made us a strong group.”

Guro Reiten ready for Champions League battle with Barcelona

Sadio Mane was noticeably disappointed after the full-time whistle at Old Trafford on Thursday. Notwithstanding the Reds guaranteeing a 4-2 triumph over Manchester United, Sadio Mane wouldn't shake Jurgen Klopp's hand after the game.&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp has made light of Sadio Mane's response and uncovered that the player's activities were because of an absence of clarification with regards to why he was precluded from the beginning XI.&nbsp;

Liverpool's triumph at Old Trafford was their first away success against Manchester United since March 2014. Thursday night's installation between the Premier League goliaths was an unquestionable requirement dominate match for Jurgen Klopp's side as they pursue a chase to top-four.&nbsp;

Liverpool's 4-2 destruction of Manchester United showed that they have gotten back to frame lately. The success took them to inside four marks of Chelsea with a game close by over Thomas Tuchel's side.&nbsp;

Sadio Mane, nonetheless, got everyone's attention with his post-match response as he wouldn't shake his director's hand at the full-time whistle. Jurgen Klopp has uncovered that the winger was baffled about being avoided concerning Liverpool's beginning XI. In the post-match public interview, Klopp uncovered:

"Yes, I made a late decision in training, really late, and changed Diogo for Sadio. And the players are used to that, I explain that. But I didn't do that properly or whatever. And at that moment, for a Premier League game, Sadio was obviously not too happy, that is all. The boys are used to me explaining but there was no time for that, that's the situation."

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🗣"There is no problem." 
 
Jurgen Klopp said there is no problem between himself and Sadio Mane after he got a frosty reception from the Liverpool winger at full-time <a href="https://t.co/mFADPn3bNT">pic.twitter.com/mFADPn3bNT</a>
— Football Daily (@footballdaily) <a href="https://twitter.com/footballdaily/status/1392958740291272705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Sadio Mane has cut a baffling figure this season. The 29-year-old has scored 40 goals in 71 appearances in all rivalries for Liverpool in the last two seasons. Nonetheless, he has figured out how to track down the rear of the net only multiple times in 31 Premier League appearances for Liverpool in the current mission.&nbsp;

Liverpool supervisor Jurgen Klopp has liked to play Diogo Jota in front of Sadio Mane lately as is supposed to be quick to support the group's assault. Sadio Mane could, accordingly, be offered to raise assets for another signing.

Klopp's side were&nbsp;clinical against Manchester United and the success implies they are back in conflict for a Champions League place. With Chelsea and Leicester City set to meet this end of the week, the Reds could climb to third on the off chance that they win against West Brom with one game in hand.

"We are still in the game, in the race. That is all we could have done tonight. It is very intense," said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp in his post-match conference: We have to recover quickly and go again. We played a good game and did good enough to win so, obviously, we did a lot of things right tonight."

Liverpool's three leftover matches are altogether should dominate matches. They will possibly have themselves to fault on the off chance that they blow away a chance to get Champions League football for next season. 
&nbsp;

Sadio Mane was noticeably disappointed after the full-time whistle at Old Trafford on Thursday. Notwithstanding the Reds guaranteeing a 4-2 triumph over Manchester United, Sadio Mane wouldn't shake Jurgen Klopp's hand after the game.

Sadio Mane was noticeably disappointed after the full-time whistle at Old Trafford on Thursday. Notwithstanding the Reds guaranteeing a 4-2 triumph over Manchester United, Sadio Mane wouldn't shake Jurgen Klopp's hand after the game. Jurgen Klopp has made light of Sadio Mane's response and uncovered that the player's activities were because of an absence of clarification with regards to why he was precluded from the beginning XI. Liverpool's triumph at Old Trafford was their first away success against Manchester United since March 2014. Thursday night's installation between the Premier League goliaths was an unquestionable requirement dominate match for Jurgen Klopp's side as they pursue a chase to top-four. Liverpool's 4-2 destruction of Manchester United showed that they have gotten back to frame lately. The success took them to inside four marks of Chelsea with a game close by over Thomas Tuchel's side. Sadio Mane, nonetheless, got everyone's attention with his post-match response as he wouldn't shake his director's hand at the full-time whistle. Jurgen Klopp has uncovered that the winger was baffled about being avoided concerning Liverpool's beginning XI. In the post-match public interview, Klopp uncovered: "Yes, I made a late decision in training, really late, and changed Diogo for Sadio. And the players are used to that, I explain that. But I didn't do that properly or whatever. And at that moment, for a Premier League game, Sadio was obviously not too happy, that is all. The boys are used to me explaining but there was no time for that, that's the situation." 🗣"There is no problem." Jurgen Klopp said there is no problem between himself and Sadio Mane after he got a frosty reception from the Liverpool winger at full-time pic.twitter.com/mFADPn3bNT — Football Daily (@footballdaily) May 13, 2021 × Sadio Mane has cut a baffling figure this season. The 29-year-old has scored 40 goals in 71 appearances in all rivalries for Liverpool in the last two seasons. Nonetheless, he has figured out how to track down the rear of the net only multiple times in 31 Premier League appearances for Liverpool in the current mission. Liverpool supervisor Jurgen Klopp has liked to play Diogo Jota in front of Sadio Mane lately as is supposed to be quick to support the group's assault. Sadio Mane could, accordingly, be offered to raise assets for another signing. Klopp's side were clinical against Manchester United and the success implies they are back in conflict for a Champions League place. With Chelsea and Leicester City set to meet this end of the week, the Reds could climb to third on the off chance that they win against West Brom with one game in hand. "We are still in the game, in the race. That is all we could have done tonight. It is very intense," said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp in his post-match conference: We have to recover quickly and go again. We played a good game and did good enough to win so, obviously, we did a lot of things right tonight." Liverpool's three leftover matches are altogether should dominate matches. They will possibly have themselves to fault on the off chance that they blow away a chance to get Champions League football for next season.

Sadio Mane refused to shake hands with Jurgen Klopp amidst the victory

English fans attending the Champions League final in Porto between Manchester City and Chelsea will have to fly in on the day of the match and will need to stay in a 'bubble' before flying back straight after the game, the Portuguese government said on Thursday.

European soccer's governing body UEFA confirmed on Thursday that the game had been moved from original host Istanbul to Porto in order to ensure that English fans could attend.

Turkey was on the UK government's 'red list' for travel while Portugal has been placed on the 'green list'.

City and Chelsea will each be provided with 6,000 tickets for their fans.

Portugal's Cabinet Affairs Minister Mariana Vieira da Silva told a news conference that a set of rules had been put in place for those fans attending the final.

"Those who come to the final of the Champions League will come and return on the same day, with a test done, in a bubble situation, on charter flights.

"There will be two fan zones and from there they will be moved to the stadium and from the stadium to the airport, being in Portugal less than 24 hours," she said.

Vieira da Silva said that the local health authority was in charge of selecting seats for fans to ensure social distancing and that tickets were non-transferable.

Fans who traveled to Porto to enjoy the occasion without going to the stadium were not subject to the same restrictions Vieira da Silva added.

"Obviously those coming by plane (to be in Porto while the match is on but do not actually go the stadium) will comply with the established rules and security measures will be put in place as happened in Lisbon last year."

She said the restrictions put in place were to ensure that COVID-19 rates remain low in Portugal.

The announcement will be a blow to Porto's hotel and hospitality industry who would have been hoping to cash in on English fans enjoying a long weekend in the city.

UEFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Manchester City said on their website that the club would be "offering qualifying supporters an official day trip travel package from Manchester to Porto. Further information will be provided to supporters as soon as possible."

English fans attending the Champions League final in Porto between Manchester City and Chelsea will have to fly in on the day of the match and will need to stay in a 'bubble' before flying back straight after the game, the Portuguese government said on Thursday.

English fans attending the Champions League final in Porto between Manchester City and Chelsea will have to fly in on the day of the match and will need to stay in a 'bubble' before flying back straight after the game, the Portuguese government said on Thursday. European soccer's governing body UEFA confirmed on Thursday that the game had been moved from original host Istanbul to Porto in order to ensure that English fans could attend. Turkey was on the UK government's 'red list' for travel while Portugal has been placed on the 'green list'. City and Chelsea will each be provided with 6,000 tickets for their fans. Portugal's Cabinet Affairs Minister Mariana Vieira da Silva told a news conference that a set of rules had been put in place for those fans attending the final. "Those who come to the final of the Champions League will come and return on the same day, with a test done, in a bubble situation, on charter flights. "There will be two fan zones and from there they will be moved to the stadium and from the stadium to the airport, being in Portugal less than 24 hours," she said. Vieira da Silva said that the local health authority was in charge of selecting seats for fans to ensure social distancing and that tickets were non-transferable. Fans who traveled to Porto to enjoy the occasion without going to the stadium were not subject to the same restrictions Vieira da Silva added. "Obviously those coming by plane (to be in Porto while the match is on but do not actually go the stadium) will comply with the established rules and security measures will be put in place as happened in Lisbon last year." She said the restrictions put in place were to ensure that COVID-19 rates remain low in Portugal. The announcement will be a blow to Porto's hotel and hospitality industry who would have been hoping to cash in on English fans enjoying a long weekend in the city. UEFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Manchester City said on their website that the club would be "offering qualifying supporters an official day trip travel package from Manchester to Porto. Further information will be provided to supporters as soon as possible."

Fans to stay in bubble, return same day for Champions League final

Former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has praised Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for putting his faith in youngsters at Old Trafford and getting the results.

In an interview with the BBC on Thursday, the Scot spoke also of his pride in United striker Marcus Rashford's campaign for free school meals and explained why he opposed plans for a closed European Super League.

The 79-year-old, one of the greatest managers of all time, was in charge when Solksjaer played for United and recalled how even then the Norwegian was taking notes for the future.

"He had a will that he wanted to be a manager, and at a club like Manchester United, it's a result industry, without question," he said of the Norwegian who replaced Jose Mourinho as a manager in 2018.

"If you don't get results there are questions to be asked. He is getting the results, he really has done very well.

"And what is really important for this club is to introduce young people, and he's given young players a chance.

"The young guys, if they are good enough, play them. Never a problem at this club," said Ferguson, who gave plenty of chances to youngsters at United -- including future England captain David Beckham.

United have not won the league title since Ferguson's last in 2012-13 but under Solskjaer they are second in the Premier League, behind champions Manchester City, and have reached the Europa League final.

Ferguson, who felt he had been given "three years extra" after suffering a brain hemorrhage in 2018, said he phoned Rashford to show his support for the 23-year-old England international's campaign.

"I was so proud of him, I really was," he said, speaking ahead of the release this month of a new documentary, directed by his son Jason, about his life.

The Scot also praised Liverpool and Manchester City managers Juergen Klopp and Pep Guardiola for the drive they had brought to their clubs, and felt he had a similar energy.

He said modern players were more fragile and needed more care, however.

Ferguson told Reuters last month that a breakaway European Super League would be a move away from 70 years of&nbsp;football&nbsp;history and he said on Thursday every club should be able to dream of reaching the top.

"You cannot ever forget that the real reason for&nbsp;football&nbsp;was that the smallest guy can climb to the top of Everest, and that's the best way I can put that. We can't do without that really," he said.

The breakaway plan lasted 48 hours before falling apart but the repercussions continue, with fans protesting against the club's owners ahead of Thursday's home Premier League game against Liverpool.

Former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has praised Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for putting his faith in youngsters at Old Trafford and getting the results. In an interview with the BBC on Thursday, the Scot spoke also of his pride in United striker Marcus Rashford's campaign for free school meals and explained why he opposed plans for a closed European Super League.

Former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has praised Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for putting his faith in youngsters at Old Trafford and getting the results. In an interview with the BBC on Thursday, the Scot spoke also of his pride in United striker Marcus Rashford's campaign for free school meals and explained why he opposed plans for a closed European Super League. The 79-year-old, one of the greatest managers of all time, was in charge when Solksjaer played for United and recalled how even then the Norwegian was taking notes for the future. "He had a will that he wanted to be a manager, and at a club like Manchester United, it's a result industry, without question," he said of the Norwegian who replaced Jose Mourinho as a manager in 2018. "If you don't get results there are questions to be asked. He is getting the results, he really has done very well. "And what is really important for this club is to introduce young people, and he's given young players a chance. "The young guys, if they are good enough, play them. Never a problem at this club," said Ferguson, who gave plenty of chances to youngsters at United -- including future England captain David Beckham. United have not won the league title since Ferguson's last in 2012-13 but under Solskjaer they are second in the Premier League, behind champions Manchester City, and have reached the Europa League final. Ferguson, who felt he had been given "three years extra" after suffering a brain hemorrhage in 2018, said he phoned Rashford to show his support for the 23-year-old England international's campaign. "I was so proud of him, I really was," he said, speaking ahead of the release this month of a new documentary, directed by his son Jason, about his life. The Scot also praised Liverpool and Manchester City managers Juergen Klopp and Pep Guardiola for the drive they had brought to their clubs, and felt he had a similar energy. He said modern players were more fragile and needed more care, however. Ferguson told Reuters last month that a breakaway European Super League would be a move away from 70 years of football history and he said on Thursday every club should be able to dream of reaching the top. "You cannot ever forget that the real reason for football was that the smallest guy can climb to the top of Everest, and that's the best way I can put that. We can't do without that really," he said. The breakaway plan lasted 48 hours before falling apart but the repercussions continue, with fans protesting against the club's owners ahead of Thursday's home Premier League game against Liverpool.

Alex Ferguson says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has 'done very well' at Manchester United

Atletico Madrid held their nerve to beat Real Sociedad 2-1 on Wednesday and move within touching distance of winning La Liga.&nbsp;

Yannick Carrasco and Angel Correa made a dominant first half count for Atletico, who retreated in the second and were left hanging on after Igor Zubeldia blasted in for La Real with seven minutes left.&nbsp;

When the final whistle blew, Diego Simeone jogged up the tunnel at the Wanda Metropolitano, punching the air as he went, fully aware how important this result could prove.&nbsp;

"We were excellent in the first half but the suffering was unnecessary when we had so many chances," Simeone said.

Outside, Atleti fans had gathered to cheer and sing throughout a nervy contest and when victory was confirmed, fireworks filled the sky.&nbsp;

"We thank all those who are outside tonight and all those who can't come because of everything that is happening," said Atletico captain Koke. "We could hear them outside when we needed them in the last 10 minutes."

Victory puts Atletico four points clear of Barcelona in the table and five ahead of Real Madrid, with Zinedine Zidane's side playing their game in hand away at Granada on Thursday.&nbsp;

It also raises the possibility of Atletico winning the title in the penultimate round on Sunday when they play at home to Osasuna.&nbsp;

Another victory this weekend would knock Barca out of the race regardless of what the Catalans do against Celta Vigo while Real Madrid would also concede if they had not taken six points from Granada and Sunday's trip to Athletic Bilbao.&nbsp;

Sevilla, in fourth, had earlier edged past Valencia 1-0 but they can no longer overtake Atleti, given their six-point deficit and a losing head-to-head record with the leaders.&nbsp;

Youssef En-Nesyri scored his 26th goal of the season at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.

The four-horse race is reduced to three and after weeks of various twists and turns, Atletico suddenly appear to have a route to the trophy.&nbsp;

In terms of the table at least, this game against fifth-placed Real Sociedad was their toughest remaining fixture, although Real Valladolid could well be fighting for survival on the final day.&nbsp;

After Granada and Athletic Bilbao, Real Madrid finish against Villarreal, who will have the Europa League final three days later. Barcelona face Celta before ending away at Eibar, who could also be battling relegation.&nbsp;

Atletico were brilliant for the first half an hour and could have scored two or three times in the first 10 minutes, Luis Suarez blasting over and Marcos Llorente spurning a chance when sent clear.&nbsp;

Carrasco showed more precision when Llorente curled in a superb cross to the back post, the winger controlling with the outside of his right foot and poking in the opener.&nbsp;

Suarez teed up the second, bustling through midfield and slipping in Correa, who drove the ball inside the far corner to put Atletico in charge.&nbsp;

But they failed to add a third in the second half, Suarez and Carrasco both guilty of wasting chances, and Real Sociedad were revived in the final 30 minutes.&nbsp;

Portu drew an excellent save from Jan Oblak and then struck the post before finally, Zubeldia smashed in when a corner landed at his feet, six yards out. Atletico survived a nail-biting finish.

Atletico Madrid held their nerve to beat Real Sociedad 2-1 on Wednesday and move within touching distance of winning La Liga. Yannick Carrasco and Angel Correa made a dominant first half count for Atletico, who retreated in the second and were left hanging on after Igor Zubeldia blasted in for La Real with seven minutes left.

Atletico Madrid held their nerve to beat Real Sociedad 2-1 on Wednesday and move within touching distance of winning La Liga. Yannick Carrasco and Angel Correa made a dominant first half count for Atletico, who retreated in the second and were left hanging on after Igor Zubeldia blasted in for La Real with seven minutes left. When the final whistle blew, Diego Simeone jogged up the tunnel at the Wanda Metropolitano, punching the air as he went, fully aware how important this result could prove. "We were excellent in the first half but the suffering was unnecessary when we had so many chances," Simeone said. Outside, Atleti fans had gathered to cheer and sing throughout a nervy contest and when victory was confirmed, fireworks filled the sky. "We thank all those who are outside tonight and all those who can't come because of everything that is happening," said Atletico captain Koke. "We could hear them outside when we needed them in the last 10 minutes." Victory puts Atletico four points clear of Barcelona in the table and five ahead of Real Madrid, with Zinedine Zidane's side playing their game in hand away at Granada on Thursday. It also raises the possibility of Atletico winning the title in the penultimate round on Sunday when they play at home to Osasuna. Another victory this weekend would knock Barca out of the race regardless of what the Catalans do against Celta Vigo while Real Madrid would also concede if they had not taken six points from Granada and Sunday's trip to Athletic Bilbao. Sevilla, in fourth, had earlier edged past Valencia 1-0 but they can no longer overtake Atleti, given their six-point deficit and a losing head-to-head record with the leaders. Youssef En-Nesyri scored his 26th goal of the season at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan. The four-horse race is reduced to three and after weeks of various twists and turns, Atletico suddenly appear to have a route to the trophy. In terms of the table at least, this game against fifth-placed Real Sociedad was their toughest remaining fixture, although Real Valladolid could well be fighting for survival on the final day. After Granada and Athletic Bilbao, Real Madrid finish against Villarreal, who will have the Europa League final three days later. Barcelona face Celta before ending away at Eibar, who could also be battling relegation. Atletico were brilliant for the first half an hour and could have scored two or three times in the first 10 minutes, Luis Suarez blasting over and Marcos Llorente spurning a chance when sent clear. Carrasco showed more precision when Llorente curled in a superb cross to the back post, the winger controlling with the outside of his right foot and poking in the opener. Suarez teed up the second, bustling through midfield and slipping in Correa, who drove the ball inside the far corner to put Atletico in charge. But they failed to add a third in the second half, Suarez and Carrasco both guilty of wasting chances, and Real Sociedad were revived in the final 30 minutes. Portu drew an excellent save from Jan Oblak and then struck the post before finally, Zubeldia smashed in when a corner landed at his feet, six yards out. Atletico survived a nail-biting finish.

Atletico edge closer to La Liga title after Real Sociedad win

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has played down talk of a summer spending spree in a bid to revive the Anfield club's fortunes.

The German boss believes it will be a relatively quiet transfer window despite speculation linking Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Jadon Sancho with big-money moves.&nbsp;

But, with clubs across Europe still counting the cost of the coronavirus pandemic on their finances as a result of having to play behind closed doors, the continent's leading teams have a lot less spending money than in previous years.&nbsp;

Liverpool's finances could be stretched even further if the Merseysiders fail to qualify for the Champions League, with Klopp adamant he will not spend heavily after his side ceded the Premier League title to Manchester City.

Klopp believes many teams won't move into the transfer window until after Euro 2022, saying: "The market will be really strange.&nbsp;

"I hear about really big money moves... is Kylian Mbappe going? Haaland? Sancho? I don't see that happening a lot this summer because the football world is still not in the same place it was before.

"We will see how the market will develop but for sure it won't be an early market."

<h2>- 'Beat the best team in the world' -</h2>

Klopp, pointing out Liverpool had won the Champions League and Premier League during his time at Anfield, said: "I never look at other clubs and think 'They can do this, so we can't do that'.

"I am not interested in being the coach of the best team in the world, I am interested in being the coach of the team who can beat the best team in the world."

And he said a fully-fit Liverpool squad could still challenge City, Chelsea and Thursday's opponents Manchester United, with Reds boss looking forward to seeing Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip, as well as captain Jordan Henderson, returning to pre-season training.

"Getting the (injured) players back makes us better, definitely. These are our first transfers," he said.

Meanwhile Klopp said it was a "crime" to make United play three games in five days.

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer made 10 changes ahead of his side's 2-1 home defeat by Leicester on Tuesday, which confirmed Manchester City as champions.

But the result also gave the Foxes, now in third, a nine-point advantage over deposed champions Liverpool, who are scrambling to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Liverpool, who have two games in hand over Leicester, are seven points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea, having played a game fewer.

United's congested schedule came about following the postponement of their clash with Liverpool earlier this month as a result of protests at Old Trafford against US owners the Glazers.

"To play Sunday-Tuesday-Thursday is a crime," said Klopp. "It is. But it is not the fault of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and the players."

He added: "If we don't qualify for the Champions League it is not the fault of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his team selection or the Premier League, it is our fault."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has played down talk of a summer spending spree in a bid to revive the Anfield club's fortunes. The German boss believes it will be a relatively quiet transfer window despite speculation linking Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Jadon Sancho with big-money moves.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has played down talk of a summer spending spree in a bid to revive the Anfield club's fortunes. The German boss believes it will be a relatively quiet transfer window despite speculation linking Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Jadon Sancho with big-money moves. But, with clubs across Europe still counting the cost of the coronavirus pandemic on their finances as a result of having to play behind closed doors, the continent's leading teams have a lot less spending money than in previous years. Liverpool's finances could be stretched even further if the Merseysiders fail to qualify for the Champions League, with Klopp adamant he will not spend heavily after his side ceded the Premier League title to Manchester City. Klopp believes many teams won't move into the transfer window until after Euro 2022, saying: "The market will be really strange. "I hear about really big money moves... is Kylian Mbappe going? Haaland? Sancho? I don't see that happening a lot this summer because the football world is still not in the same place it was before. "We will see how the market will develop but for sure it won't be an early market." - 'Beat the best team in the world' - Klopp, pointing out Liverpool had won the Champions League and Premier League during his time at Anfield, said: "I never look at other clubs and think 'They can do this, so we can't do that'. "I am not interested in being the coach of the best team in the world, I am interested in being the coach of the team who can beat the best team in the world." And he said a fully-fit Liverpool squad could still challenge City, Chelsea and Thursday's opponents Manchester United, with Reds boss looking forward to seeing Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip, as well as captain Jordan Henderson, returning to pre-season training. "Getting the (injured) players back makes us better, definitely. These are our first transfers," he said. Meanwhile Klopp said it was a "crime" to make United play three games in five days. United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer made 10 changes ahead of his side's 2-1 home defeat by Leicester on Tuesday, which confirmed Manchester City as champions. But the result also gave the Foxes, now in third, a nine-point advantage over deposed champions Liverpool, who are scrambling to qualify for next season's Champions League. Liverpool, who have two games in hand over Leicester, are seven points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea, having played a game fewer. United's congested schedule came about following the postponement of their clash with Liverpool earlier this month as a result of protests at Old Trafford against US owners the Glazers. "To play Sunday-Tuesday-Thursday is a crime," said Klopp. "It is. But it is not the fault of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and the players." He added: "If we don't qualify for the Champions League it is not the fault of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his team selection or the Premier League, it is our fault."

Klopp wary of Liverpool summer spending spree

Thomas Tuchel said Chelsea face a "big fight" to finish in the Premier League's top four after their damaging 1-0 defeat against Arsenal on Wednesday.

Tuchel's side missed a chance to climb above Leicester into third place as Emile Smith Rowe bagged the first half winner at Stamford Bridge.

Smith Rowe punished a wayward back-pass from Jorginho to leave Tuchel anticipating a tense finish in the race to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Fourth placed Chelsea are six points ahead of fifth placed West Ham, who have a game in hand, and seven in front of sixth placed Liverpool, who have two games in hand.

Chelsea have two league matches remaining against Leicester and Aston Villa and Tuchel said: "It was always a big fight, it never felt like a relief.

"If anybody felt it like this today, maybe, it's the last lesson to learn.

"It's still in our hands. It is another chance missed. We have had some good results, so we have to cope now with a loss."

Tuchel conceded he was to blame for Chelsea's first defeat in eight games in all competitions after he made seven changes from Saturday's win at Manchester City.

"Maybe I gave some signals to the team with changes that Saturday is on my mind," Tuchel said in reference this weekend's FA Cup final against Leicester.

"Even if it's one per cent or five per cent, this is not how we approach things, because you get punished. It's hard to swallow, hard to accept, but there's no other way."

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admitted the Gunners' first Stamford Bridge win in a decade was much-needed after a difficult period.

Arteta has been under-fire during a troubled campaign, but he insisted his side have not given up hope of qualifying for Europe next term.

They could make the new Europa Conference League and have an outside chance of reaching the Europa League.

"Nothing is broken inside. I don't know how they want to try from the outside. They (the media) try to put things on me that I never said," Arteta said.

"I said if I don't get 120 percent off each player it's my fault and responsibility. It wasn't like this in the press. I'm so annoyed by that.

"They can try but they're not going to break it. The players showed how much they mean it, how much spirit and attitude there is in the group, and how much they care about it.

"It was a big message. Europe is still mathematically possible, so we have to keep giving ourselves the last chance while it's possible."

Thomas Tuchel said Chelsea face a "big fight" to finish in the Premier League's top four after their damaging 1-0 defeat against Arsenal on Wednesday. Tuchel's side missed a chance to climb above Leicester into third place as Emile Smith Rowe bagged the first half winner at Stamford Bridge.

Thomas Tuchel said Chelsea face a "big fight" to finish in the Premier League's top four after their damaging 1-0 defeat against Arsenal on Wednesday. Tuchel's side missed a chance to climb above Leicester into third place as Emile Smith Rowe bagged the first half winner at Stamford Bridge. Smith Rowe punished a wayward back-pass from Jorginho to leave Tuchel anticipating a tense finish in the race to qualify for next season's Champions League. Fourth placed Chelsea are six points ahead of fifth placed West Ham, who have a game in hand, and seven in front of sixth placed Liverpool, who have two games in hand. Chelsea have two league matches remaining against Leicester and Aston Villa and Tuchel said: "It was always a big fight, it never felt like a relief. "If anybody felt it like this today, maybe, it's the last lesson to learn. "It's still in our hands. It is another chance missed. We have had some good results, so we have to cope now with a loss." Tuchel conceded he was to blame for Chelsea's first defeat in eight games in all competitions after he made seven changes from Saturday's win at Manchester City. "Maybe I gave some signals to the team with changes that Saturday is on my mind," Tuchel said in reference this weekend's FA Cup final against Leicester. "Even if it's one per cent or five per cent, this is not how we approach things, because you get punished. It's hard to swallow, hard to accept, but there's no other way." Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admitted the Gunners' first Stamford Bridge win in a decade was much-needed after a difficult period. Arteta has been under-fire during a troubled campaign, but he insisted his side have not given up hope of qualifying for Europe next term. They could make the new Europa Conference League and have an outside chance of reaching the Europa League. "Nothing is broken inside. I don't know how they want to try from the outside. They (the media) try to put things on me that I never said," Arteta said. "I said if I don't get 120 percent off each player it's my fault and responsibility. It wasn't like this in the press. I'm so annoyed by that. "They can try but they're not going to break it. The players showed how much they mean it, how much spirit and attitude there is in the group, and how much they care about it. "It was a big message. Europe is still mathematically possible, so we have to keep giving ourselves the last chance while it's possible."

Tuchel ready for 'big fight' as Chelsea suffer top four blow

Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp for inspiring him to become a better manager following Manchester City's Premier League title success.

City were crowned champions for the third time in four seasons on Tuesday when Manchester United lost to Leicester, succeeding Klopp's Liverpool.

Klopp described Guardiola as the best manager in the world at a press conference on Wednesday and the Catalan was full of compliments in return.

"Jurgen, of course, was an inspiration for me," said Guardiola. "He made me, through his teams at Dortmund and Liverpool, a better manager. He made me think a lot about games and opponents. Thank you so much."

Guardiola revealed he and his players celebrated with pizza at an impromptu party at their training complex after defeat for second-placed United.

"It was so nice," he said. "The unexpected parties are the nicest ones.

"We came here in our bubble. We drank a bit, we danced, we hugged a lot, we remembered how good it was. Then at 11:30 15 pizzas arrived and that was the best moment of the night."

City's success this season, which also includes their run to the Champions League final and a League Cup triumph, has come after Guardiola signed a new contract in November.

The Spaniard, who arrived at the club in 2016, had been in the final year of his previous deal but he said he wanted to repay the faith shown in him by chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak.

He said: "I cannot forget my first season here, when we didn't win anything, the behaviour of my chairman. And after the big disappointment against Lyon last season (defeat in the Champions League quarter-finals), the support I had from my chairman.

"That's why he is part of our success and it's dedicated to him, for supporting me, like I support my backroom staff and the players.

"Now we have two weeks ahead of us to prepare for the dream come true of playing in the final of the Champions League."

Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp for inspiring him to become a better manager following Manchester City's Premier League title success.

Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp for inspiring him to become a better manager following Manchester City's Premier League title success. City were crowned champions for the third time in four seasons on Tuesday when Manchester United lost to Leicester, succeeding Klopp's Liverpool. Klopp described Guardiola as the best manager in the world at a press conference on Wednesday and the Catalan was full of compliments in return. "Jurgen, of course, was an inspiration for me," said Guardiola. "He made me, through his teams at Dortmund and Liverpool, a better manager. He made me think a lot about games and opponents. Thank you so much." Guardiola revealed he and his players celebrated with pizza at an impromptu party at their training complex after defeat for second-placed United. "It was so nice," he said. "The unexpected parties are the nicest ones. "We came here in our bubble. We drank a bit, we danced, we hugged a lot, we remembered how good it was. Then at 11:30 15 pizzas arrived and that was the best moment of the night." City's success this season, which also includes their run to the Champions League final and a League Cup triumph, has come after Guardiola signed a new contract in November. The Spaniard, who arrived at the club in 2016, had been in the final year of his previous deal but he said he wanted to repay the faith shown in him by chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak. He said: "I cannot forget my first season here, when we didn't win anything, the behaviour of my chairman. And after the big disappointment against Lyon last season (defeat in the Champions League quarter-finals), the support I had from my chairman. "That's why he is part of our success and it's dedicated to him, for supporting me, like I support my backroom staff and the players. "Now we have two weeks ahead of us to prepare for the dream come true of playing in the final of the Champions League."

Guardiola hails 'inspirational' Klopp as he savours Premier League triumph

Cristiano Ronaldo could be involved in a massively surprising return to his boyhood club Sporting Lisbon this summer after his mother Dolores Aveiro insisted that she will try to convince the Portuguese stalwart to return to where he started his career.<o:p></o:p>

While Ronaldo currently leads the goalscoring charts in Serie A, Juventus could finish the season outside the top four, which will end their hopes of playing UEFA Champions League next season. However, Juventus as a club has still not pulled out of the controversial European Super League and the matter is expected to be dragged for weeks. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Ronaldo also completed 100 goals for Juventus as he became the fastest player in Serie A to achieve the milestone and the only player to score a century of goals in three major European leagues. <o:p></o:p>

Ronaldo started his senior career at Sporting and won the Portuguese title for the first time since 2002.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ramesh-powar-appointed-head-coach-of-indian-womens-cricket-team-384783" hreflang="en">Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team</a><o:p></o:p>

Ronaldo’s mother, an avid Sporting fan, cleared the air by saying she will try and convince Ronaldo to join the Portuguese club. <o:p></o:p>

"I'll talk to him (Cristiano) to bring him back," she said from her balcony as she spoke to Sporting fans that had taken to the streets to celebrate.<o:p></o:p>

"Next year, he will play in Alvalade (Sporting's stadium).".&nbsp;

&nbsp;ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-could-be-difficult-rajasthan-royals-ben-stokes-on-playing-in-remainder-of-ipl-2021-384755" hreflang="en">'It could be difficult': Rajasthan Royals' Ben Stokes on playing in remainder of IPL 2021</a>

Ronaldo, 36, has one year left in his current contract at Juventus. However, the former Real Madrid forward is linked with a departure this summer with former club Manchester United being touted as one of the destinations.<o:p></o:p>

Cristiano Ronaldo could be involved in a massively surprising return to his boyhood club Sporting Lisbon this summer after his mother Dolores Aveiro insisted that she will try to convince the Portuguese stalwart to return to where he started his career.

Cristiano Ronaldo could be involved in a massively surprising return to his boyhood club Sporting Lisbon this summer after his mother Dolores Aveiro insisted that she will try to convince the Portuguese stalwart to return to where he started his career. While Ronaldo currently leads the goalscoring charts in Serie A, Juventus could finish the season outside the top four, which will end their hopes of playing UEFA Champions League next season. However, Juventus as a club has still not pulled out of the controversial European Super League and the matter is expected to be dragged for weeks. Meanwhile, Ronaldo also completed 100 goals for Juventus as he became the fastest player in Serie A to achieve the milestone and the only player to score a century of goals in three major European leagues. Ronaldo started his senior career at Sporting and won the Portuguese title for the first time since 2002. ALSO READ: Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team Ronaldo’s mother, an avid Sporting fan, cleared the air by saying she will try and convince Ronaldo to join the Portuguese club. "I'll talk to him (Cristiano) to bring him back," she said from her balcony as she spoke to Sporting fans that had taken to the streets to celebrate. "Next year, he will play in Alvalade (Sporting's stadium).". ALSO READ: 'It could be difficult': Rajasthan Royals' Ben Stokes on playing in remainder of IPL 2021 Ronaldo, 36, has one year left in his current contract at Juventus. However, the former Real Madrid forward is linked with a departure this summer with former club Manchester United being touted as one of the destinations.

Cristiano Ronaldo to sign for Sporting Lisbon? Juve star's mother fuels transfer speculation

The much-anticipated Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea has been shifted from Istanbul, Turkey, to Porto in Portugal, UEFA announced on Thursday.<o:p></o:p>

The most awaited UCL final on May 29 has been shifted to allow English spectators to attend the match with the travel between the UK and Turkey suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

UEFA has further announced that up to 6,000 spectators each from Chelsea and Man City will be allowed to attend the Champions League final. <o:p></o:p>

"We accept that the decision of the British Government to place Turkey on the red list for travel was taken in good faith and in the best interests of protecting its citizens from the spread of the virus but it also presented us with a major challenge in staging a final featuring two English teams," UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said in a statement.

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"After the year that fans have endured, it is not right that they don't have the chance to watch their teams in the biggest game of the season," he added.<o:p></o:p>

There were reports that the UCL final would be played at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium but the move fell out due to certain allowances including&nbsp;quarantine-free visits by media and other authorities. <o:p></o:p>

"The difficulties of moving the final are great and the FA and the authorities made every effort to try to stage the match in England and I would like to thank them for their work in trying to make it happen," Ceferin said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/champions-manchester-city-fans-take-to-streets-after-premier-league-win-384449" hreflang="en">'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win</a><o:p></o:p>

UEFA added that COVID-19 protocols in the UK made it difficult for the match to be held in the English capital. <o:p></o:p>

"UEFA discussed moving the match to England but, despite exhaustive efforts on the part of the Football Association and the authorities, it was not possible to achieve the necessary exemptions from UK quarantine arrangements," it said.<o:p></o:p>

The much-anticipated Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea has been shifted from Istanbul, Turkey, to Porto in Portugal, UEFA announced on Thursday.

The much-anticipated Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea has been shifted from Istanbul, Turkey, to Porto in Portugal, UEFA announced on Thursday. The most awaited UCL final on May 29 has been shifted to allow English spectators to attend the match with the travel between the UK and Turkey suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. UEFA has further announced that up to 6,000 spectators each from Chelsea and Man City will be allowed to attend the Champions League final. "We accept that the decision of the British Government to place Turkey on the red list for travel was taken in good faith and in the best interests of protecting its citizens from the spread of the virus but it also presented us with a major challenge in staging a final featuring two English teams," UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said in a statement. ALSO READ: Atletico edge closer to La Liga title after Real Sociedad win "After the year that fans have endured, it is not right that they don't have the chance to watch their teams in the biggest game of the season," he added. There were reports that the UCL final would be played at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium but the move fell out due to certain allowances including quarantine-free visits by media and other authorities. "The difficulties of moving the final are great and the FA and the authorities made every effort to try to stage the match in England and I would like to thank them for their work in trying to make it happen," Ceferin said. ALSO READ: 'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win UEFA added that COVID-19 protocols in the UK made it difficult for the match to be held in the English capital. "UEFA discussed moving the match to England but, despite exhaustive efforts on the part of the Football Association and the authorities, it was not possible to achieve the necessary exemptions from UK quarantine arrangements," it said.

Man City vs Chelsea: UEFA Champions League final moved to Porto from Istanbul

Bayern Munich’s future CEO and former Germany goalkeeper, Oliver Kahn has ruled out a potential summer transfer for Borussia Dortmund hot-shot Erling Haaland. Kahn said that Bayern Munich spending over 100 million Euros for a player is “unimaginable” at this time.<o:p></o:p>

Haaland has established himself as one of the hottest properties in world football and many top European clubs are linked with a move to sign the Norwegian forward. Bayern Munich are one of the clubs touted to sign Haaland in the summer but Kahn has claimed that they won’t be able to match the transfer fees given the turbulent financial climate of the footballing world.<o:p></o:p>

"Sorry, whoever spoke about that didn't understand the situation," the Bayern director, who will succeed Karl-Heinz Rummenigge as CEO later this year, told Bild.<o:p></o:p>

"A package that costs - as we heard - over €100m is unimaginable for FC Bayern at the moment."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-trust-the-authorities-jurgen-klopp-on-safety-concerns-over-man-utd-fixture-384575" hreflang="en">We trust the authorities': Jurgen Klopp on safety concerns over Man Utd fixture</a><o:p></o:p>

The former Germany and Bayern Munich goalkeeper went on to emphasise that the German giants can reply to Robert Lewandowski for the main share of goals for the foreseeable future. Lewandowski has smashed 46 goals across all competitions this season after winning the UEFA Player of the Year award last term.<o:p></o:p>

"Robert still has a two-year contract here. His performances cannot be questioned. He's scored 39 goals [in the Bundesliga] so far!<o:p></o:p>

"Just for that, we don't have to think about Haaland today. Robert can keep this level for a few more years."

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Earlier this month, Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola said: "What we know as of today is that Dortmund spoke extremely solemnly to us and said: 'We are not selling him'.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

“Today, the official stance of Dortmund is this. But I've got another view, I think that if a good opportunity comes up and everyone would be happy, we'll put it on the table.”<o:p></o:p>

Bayern Munich’s future CEO and former Germany goalkeeper, Oliver Kahn has ruled out a potential summer transfer for Borussia Dortmund hot-shot Erling Haaland. Kahn said that Bayern Munich spending over 100 million Euros for a player is “unimaginable” at this time.

Bayern Munich’s future CEO and former Germany goalkeeper, Oliver Kahn has ruled out a potential summer transfer for Borussia Dortmund hot-shot Erling Haaland. Kahn said that Bayern Munich spending over 100 million Euros for a player is “unimaginable” at this time. Haaland has established himself as one of the hottest properties in world football and many top European clubs are linked with a move to sign the Norwegian forward. Bayern Munich are one of the clubs touted to sign Haaland in the summer but Kahn has claimed that they won’t be able to match the transfer fees given the turbulent financial climate of the footballing world. "Sorry, whoever spoke about that didn't understand the situation," the Bayern director, who will succeed Karl-Heinz Rummenigge as CEO later this year, told Bild. "A package that costs - as we heard - over €100m is unimaginable for FC Bayern at the moment." ALSO READ: We trust the authorities': Jurgen Klopp on safety concerns over Man Utd fixture The former Germany and Bayern Munich goalkeeper went on to emphasise that the German giants can reply to Robert Lewandowski for the main share of goals for the foreseeable future. Lewandowski has smashed 46 goals across all competitions this season after winning the UEFA Player of the Year award last term. "Robert still has a two-year contract here. His performances cannot be questioned. He's scored 39 goals [in the Bundesliga] so far! "Just for that, we don't have to think about Haaland today. Robert can keep this level for a few more years." ALSO READ: Van Dijk to skip Euro 2020 with Netherlands to focus on Liverpool return Earlier this month, Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola said: "What we know as of today is that Dortmund spoke extremely solemnly to us and said: 'We are not selling him'. “Today, the official stance of Dortmund is this. But I've got another view, I think that if a good opportunity comes up and everyone would be happy, we'll put it on the table.”

'€100 million is unimaginable': Oliver Kahn rules out Bayern Munich in race to sign Haaland

Ace Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has ruled himself out of the Euro 2020 to be fit for the start of the Premier League season 2021-22. The development comes as a huge blow to the Netherlands squad, who will now miss the center-back for the marquee tournament, scheduled later in the year.<o:p></o:p>

Van Dijk, the skipper of the Netherlands, has been out of action for seven months after undergoing surgery on a ruptured cruciate ligament in his right knee.<o:p></o:p>

The Dutch brute admitted to being in a “bad place” at the start of his recovery process but added he is now more positive about returning to light running. <o:p></o:p>

"I've just progressed nicely," he told Liverpool's website. "In this latest stage for myself, I have come to a decision that I had to make -- would I be involved in the Euros, yes or no?

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-conducts-disciplinary-investigation-against-remaining-clubs-in-eurpoean-super-league-384540" hreflang="en">UEFA conducts disciplinary investigation against remaining clubs in European Super League</a><o:p></o:p>

"With everything that is going on, I feel physically it is the right decision that I've decided not to go to the Euros and to go into my last phase of rehab during the off-season.<o:p></o:p>

"So the full focus will be on pre-season with the club and that's a realistic goal, so I am looking forward to that."<o:p></o:p>

Van Dijk further said he was “gutted” to be missing the delayed Euro 2020, which starts in June, but was at peace with the call. <o:p></o:p>

"The surgeon is very happy with everything that is going on and, as I said, the good thing is I've not really had a setback so far and hopefully that will not happen," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/champions-manchester-city-fans-take-to-streets-after-premier-league-win-384449" hreflang="en">'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win</a><o:p></o:p>

Notably, Van Dijk would be 31 before he can make his major tournament debut in the international circuit. <o:p></o:p>

"I think this decision has definitely been the right one, in my opinion, to give my body and my knee a little bit more extra time to get ready for hopefully a big, big 18 months at least with the club but also with my country because we're trying to go to the next tournament after this as well and that starts in September," he said.<o:p></o:p>

He added: "Obviously I want to be back out there, I want to be helping my team-mates, helping my country in this case and I obviously want to help the club, but I think it's the right thing to do to stay a little bit more patient and work even harder during the off-season and get ready."<o:p></o:p>

Ace Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has ruled himself out of the Euro 2020 to be fit for the start of the Premier League season 2021-22. The development comes as a huge blow to the Netherlands squad, who will now miss the center-back for the marquee tournament, scheduled later in the year.

Ace Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has ruled himself out of the Euro 2020 to be fit for the start of the Premier League season 2021-22. The development comes as a huge blow to the Netherlands squad, who will now miss the center-back for the marquee tournament, scheduled later in the year. Van Dijk, the skipper of the Netherlands, has been out of action for seven months after undergoing surgery on a ruptured cruciate ligament in his right knee. The Dutch brute admitted to being in a “bad place” at the start of his recovery process but added he is now more positive about returning to light running. "I've just progressed nicely," he told Liverpool's website. "In this latest stage for myself, I have come to a decision that I had to make -- would I be involved in the Euros, yes or no? ALSO READ: UEFA conducts disciplinary investigation against remaining clubs in European Super League "With everything that is going on, I feel physically it is the right decision that I've decided not to go to the Euros and to go into my last phase of rehab during the off-season. "So the full focus will be on pre-season with the club and that's a realistic goal, so I am looking forward to that." Van Dijk further said he was “gutted” to be missing the delayed Euro 2020, which starts in June, but was at peace with the call. "The surgeon is very happy with everything that is going on and, as I said, the good thing is I've not really had a setback so far and hopefully that will not happen," he added. ALSO READ: 'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win Notably, Van Dijk would be 31 before he can make his major tournament debut in the international circuit. "I think this decision has definitely been the right one, in my opinion, to give my body and my knee a little bit more extra time to get ready for hopefully a big, big 18 months at least with the club but also with my country because we're trying to go to the next tournament after this as well and that starts in September," he said. He added: "Obviously I want to be back out there, I want to be helping my team-mates, helping my country in this case and I obviously want to help the club, but I think it's the right thing to do to stay a little bit more patient and work even harder during the off-season and get ready."

Van Dijk to skip Euro 2020 with Netherlands to focus on Liverpool return

Lionel Messi scored a brilliant volley but Barcelona's title hopes could be over, with a 3-3 draw away at Levante on Tuesday giving Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid the chance to pull away at the top of La Liga.&nbsp;

Another slip could prove decisive given Atletico will move four points clear of Barca with two games left if they can win away at Real Sociedad on Wednesday. Real Madrid will edge two points ahead of Ronald Koeman's side if they win away on Thursday at Granada.&nbsp;

There are certainly no guarantees in what has been a frenetic and thrilling title race in recent weeks, with all of Spain's four contenders stumbling down the final stretch.&nbsp;

But with only two games left now and potentially two teams to catch, Barcelona's chances of taking the title off Real Madrid this season would appear remote.

"We were always depending on other results but the objective was to win our three games and hope others dropped points," said Koeman. "Now it's very complicated."&nbsp;

Levante sit 14th in the table and had won only one of their previous eight matches but they had also prevailed in three of their last four games at home against Barca, and they turned it on again.&nbsp;

Barcelona led 2-0 from Messi's acrobatic strike and a simple Pedri finish but two goals in two minutes before the hour suddenly had Levante level, Gonzalo Melero and Jose Luis Morales giving Levante hope.&nbsp;

Ousmane Dembele pulled the visitors ahead again but again they squandered the advantage, Sergio Leon diverting in at the near post and this time there was no way back.&nbsp;

"We lowered our intensity from the start of the second half, lost our rhythm," said Koeman. "We weren't defensively attentive and we let Levante back in. There is no other explanation."

"Our chances are slim," added Sergio Busquets. "And that's our fault - our decisions, our concentration - we give away easy goals."

Koeman has made positive strides this season but his team's lapses of concentration and fragility in defence remain.&nbsp;

Questions around the Dutchman's future will grow louder the more the club's title chances fade, his decisions this time to start Dembele at right wing-back and to bring Sergi Roberto into the back three particularly vulnerable to scrutiny.

"Coaches will always be questioned, that isn't going to change but with that second half there will be questions asked and I understand that perfectly," said Koeman.

Barcelona had scored twice in nine minutes to take control, Jordi Alba's cross grazing the head of Miramon on its way to Messi, who adjusted his body and threw his left foot over the ball, volleying it into the bottom corner for his 37th goal of the season.&nbsp;

Messi instigated the second too, freeing the sprinting Dembele down the right, who powered past Oscar Duarte and prodded back just in time for Pedri to finish.&nbsp;

Barca were in charge but Levante always looked a threat on the break and made it pay with two goals in two minutes before the hour.&nbsp;

First, Melero nipped in front of Sergi Roberto to head in and then a sloppy Messi touch allowed Morales to bounce the ball off Roger Marti, before volleying brilliantly into the far corner.&nbsp;

Parity lasted only five minutes, though, as Barcelona came again.&nbsp;

Messi on the turn was able to slide a pass into Antoine Griezmann and while he was challenged, the ball spilled right to Dembele, who took a touch and lashed into the top corner.&nbsp;

Barca were ahead again but they always looked vulnerable and with seven minutes left, Levante struck.&nbsp;

Sergino Dest was put on the floor by Tono down the left and his cross was turned in by Sergio Leon, who beat Gerard Pique at the near post. Barca had no answer.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi scored a brilliant volley but Barcelona's title hopes could be over, with a 3-3 draw away at Levante on Tuesday giving Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid the chance to pull away at the top of La Liga.

Lionel Messi scored a brilliant volley but Barcelona's title hopes could be over, with a 3-3 draw away at Levante on Tuesday giving Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid the chance to pull away at the top of La Liga. Another slip could prove decisive given Atletico will move four points clear of Barca with two games left if they can win away at Real Sociedad on Wednesday. Real Madrid will edge two points ahead of Ronald Koeman's side if they win away on Thursday at Granada. There are certainly no guarantees in what has been a frenetic and thrilling title race in recent weeks, with all of Spain's four contenders stumbling down the final stretch. But with only two games left now and potentially two teams to catch, Barcelona's chances of taking the title off Real Madrid this season would appear remote. "We were always depending on other results but the objective was to win our three games and hope others dropped points," said Koeman. "Now it's very complicated." Levante sit 14th in the table and had won only one of their previous eight matches but they had also prevailed in three of their last four games at home against Barca, and they turned it on again. Barcelona led 2-0 from Messi's acrobatic strike and a simple Pedri finish but two goals in two minutes before the hour suddenly had Levante level, Gonzalo Melero and Jose Luis Morales giving Levante hope. Ousmane Dembele pulled the visitors ahead again but again they squandered the advantage, Sergio Leon diverting in at the near post and this time there was no way back. "We lowered our intensity from the start of the second half, lost our rhythm," said Koeman. "We weren't defensively attentive and we let Levante back in. There is no other explanation." "Our chances are slim," added Sergio Busquets. "And that's our fault - our decisions, our concentration - we give away easy goals." Koeman has made positive strides this season but his team's lapses of concentration and fragility in defence remain. Questions around the Dutchman's future will grow louder the more the club's title chances fade, his decisions this time to start Dembele at right wing-back and to bring Sergi Roberto into the back three particularly vulnerable to scrutiny. "Coaches will always be questioned, that isn't going to change but with that second half there will be questions asked and I understand that perfectly," said Koeman. Barcelona had scored twice in nine minutes to take control, Jordi Alba's cross grazing the head of Miramon on its way to Messi, who adjusted his body and threw his left foot over the ball, volleying it into the bottom corner for his 37th goal of the season. Messi instigated the second too, freeing the sprinting Dembele down the right, who powered past Oscar Duarte and prodded back just in time for Pedri to finish. Barca were in charge but Levante always looked a threat on the break and made it pay with two goals in two minutes before the hour. First, Melero nipped in front of Sergi Roberto to head in and then a sloppy Messi touch allowed Morales to bounce the ball off Roger Marti, before volleying brilliantly into the far corner. Parity lasted only five minutes, though, as Barcelona came again. Messi on the turn was able to slide a pass into Antoine Griezmann and while he was challenged, the ball spilled right to Dembele, who took a touch and lashed into the top corner. Barca were ahead again but they always looked vulnerable and with seven minutes left, Levante struck. Sergino Dest was put on the floor by Tono down the left and his cross was turned in by Sergio Leon, who beat Gerard Pique at the near post. Barca had no answer.

Barca title hopes hanging by a thread after Levante draw

Pep Guardiola's deft introduction of a new generation at Manchester City inspired their latest Premier League title triumph, laying the foundations for a burgeoning dynasty at the Etihad Stadium.

Guardiola's side were crowned English champions for the third time in four seasons after Manchester United were beaten 2-1 by Leicester on Tuesday.

City have sealed the silverware with three games to spare, regaining the trophy they were forced to surrender to Liverpool last season.

Their return to the summit is a tribute to Guardiola's clever reshuffle of a squad that lost several important figures in recent seasons

Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure and David Silva all left the Etihad Stadium over the last four years after establishing themselves among the most influential players in City history.

Even this season, City's record goalscorer Sergio Aguero has been phased out and will leave in the summer.

But rather than let the departure of the old guard serve as a death knell for City's ambitions, Guardiola has transitioned to a new crop of stars capable of keeping his side on top for years to come.

Ruben Dias, Phil Foden and Joao Cancelo have emerged to play leading roles this season, supplementing core components Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and Ederson.

Dias has been the most important addition as the Portugal centre-back proved the perfect replacement for Kompany.

Signed from Benfica in September, the 23-year-old adapted seamlessly to the Premier League, adding physicality and leadership that brought the best out of John Stones at a time when the England defender was in danger of squandering his potential.

England playmaker Foden has long been earmarked as a future star and the 20-year-old is living up to the hype at last after a breakthrough season.

Cancelo's dynamic bursts from right or left back allowed City to out-number opponents in attacking areas, providing Guardiola with a big pay-off for keeping faith with the 26-year-old after an underwhelming first season following his move from Juventus.

Ilkay Gundogan's late flowering at age 30 has been an added bonus for Guardiola as the German midfielder's superb form and glut of goals covered for De Bruyne's various injury problems and a low-key year for Raheem Sterling.

<h2>- Defining moment -</h2>

Most encouragingly for Guardiola, only Walker and Gundogan have hit 30, giving him a group capable of a dynastic reign.

While the changing of the guard is well underway, ironically it was one of City's senior citizens who played a vital part in their revival from an uneven first half of the season.

When City were held to a 1-1 draw by lowly West Bromwich Albion on December 15, Guardiola admitted "I don't like this team, I don't like the way we play."

Days later, the City boss was still brooding and a lethargic training session on New Year's Eve convinced him to call on Brazilian veteran Fernandinho for help.

Fernandinho, 35, has been City's captain this season and Guardiola urged him to tell his team-mates their efforts were not acceptable.

"After that session, Pep came and spoke to me as captain, as the leader of the team. He was blunt. He told me that not everyone was at 100 percent. And, in this team, when you come to train, you do it at 100 percent, or you stay home. There is no negotiation," Fernandinho told the Players' Tribune.

"I arrived at the ground the next morning ahead of training, and I said, 'Tell Pep we'll start training a little later today.' It was an emergency.

"Once we got everyone together, I spoke openly. I spoke as captain. I told them what Pep had told me, that some things are inexcusable. We needed to be shaken."

It was a defining moment as City put Chelsea to the sword in their next match and haven't looked back.

"Our next game was away at Chelsea. Before the match, I thought to myself, 'If these guys don't run here, that's it, I'm done!' I was ready to lose all morale," Fernandinho said.

"But, of course, we won. Thank God, since then we've been on an amazing, record-breaking run."

Ominously for City's title rivals, Fernandinho believes the desire for more success burns as bright as ever in the new generation.

"The most important thing is when you win titles and trophies, you get that hunger to win even more. That's what we have here," he said.

Pep Guardiola's deft introduction of a new generation at Manchester City inspired their latest Premier League title triumph, laying the foundations for a burgeoning dynasty at the Etihad Stadium.

Pep Guardiola's deft introduction of a new generation at Manchester City inspired their latest Premier League title triumph, laying the foundations for a burgeoning dynasty at the Etihad Stadium. Guardiola's side were crowned English champions for the third time in four seasons after Manchester United were beaten 2-1 by Leicester on Tuesday. City have sealed the silverware with three games to spare, regaining the trophy they were forced to surrender to Liverpool last season. Their return to the summit is a tribute to Guardiola's clever reshuffle of a squad that lost several important figures in recent seasons Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure and David Silva all left the Etihad Stadium over the last four years after establishing themselves among the most influential players in City history. Even this season, City's record goalscorer Sergio Aguero has been phased out and will leave in the summer. But rather than let the departure of the old guard serve as a death knell for City's ambitions, Guardiola has transitioned to a new crop of stars capable of keeping his side on top for years to come. Ruben Dias, Phil Foden and Joao Cancelo have emerged to play leading roles this season, supplementing core components Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and Ederson. Dias has been the most important addition as the Portugal centre-back proved the perfect replacement for Kompany. Signed from Benfica in September, the 23-year-old adapted seamlessly to the Premier League, adding physicality and leadership that brought the best out of John Stones at a time when the England defender was in danger of squandering his potential. England playmaker Foden has long been earmarked as a future star and the 20-year-old is living up to the hype at last after a breakthrough season. Cancelo's dynamic bursts from right or left back allowed City to out-number opponents in attacking areas, providing Guardiola with a big pay-off for keeping faith with the 26-year-old after an underwhelming first season following his move from Juventus. Ilkay Gundogan's late flowering at age 30 has been an added bonus for Guardiola as the German midfielder's superb form and glut of goals covered for De Bruyne's various injury problems and a low-key year for Raheem Sterling. - Defining moment - Most encouragingly for Guardiola, only Walker and Gundogan have hit 30, giving him a group capable of a dynastic reign. While the changing of the guard is well underway, ironically it was one of City's senior citizens who played a vital part in their revival from an uneven first half of the season. When City were held to a 1-1 draw by lowly West Bromwich Albion on December 15, Guardiola admitted "I don't like this team, I don't like the way we play." Days later, the City boss was still brooding and a lethargic training session on New Year's Eve convinced him to call on Brazilian veteran Fernandinho for help. Fernandinho, 35, has been City's captain this season and Guardiola urged him to tell his team-mates their efforts were not acceptable. "After that session, Pep came and spoke to me as captain, as the leader of the team. He was blunt. He told me that not everyone was at 100 percent. And, in this team, when you come to train, you do it at 100 percent, or you stay home. There is no negotiation," Fernandinho told the Players' Tribune. "I arrived at the ground the next morning ahead of training, and I said, 'Tell Pep we'll start training a little later today.' It was an emergency. "Once we got everyone together, I spoke openly. I spoke as captain. I told them what Pep had told me, that some things are inexcusable. We needed to be shaken." It was a defining moment as City put Chelsea to the sword in their next match and haven't looked back. "Our next game was away at Chelsea. Before the match, I thought to myself, 'If these guys don't run here, that's it, I'm done!' I was ready to lose all morale," Fernandinho said. "But, of course, we won. Thank God, since then we've been on an amazing, record-breaking run." Ominously for City's title rivals, Fernandinho believes the desire for more success burns as bright as ever in the new generation. "The most important thing is when you win titles and trophies, you get that hunger to win even more. That's what we have here," he said.

Man City's new generation lay foundation for golden era

Manchester United's Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani has signed a one-year contract extension at the Old Trafford outfit has hit a purple patch in recent matches, the Premier League club said on Monday.

Free-agent Cavani arrived at United on a one-year contract in October with an option of another 12 months but was undecided about his future after a difficult start to life at the club after a social media faux pas resulted in a three-game ban.

The former Paris St Germain forward's father had said in March that the player was uncomfortable in England and wanted to return to South America, having held talks with Boca Juniors president Juan Roman Riquelme about signing for the club.

However, Cavani overcame his early issues to take his goal tally for United to 15 from 35 games in all competitions so far, with eight goals in seven matches including one in Sunday's 3-1 league win over Aston Villa.

"Over the season, I've developed a great affection for the club and everything it represents," Cavani said in a statement. "I feel a deep bond with my teammates and the staff who work behind the scenes here. They give me extra motivation every day and I know that, together, we can achieve special things.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
➖ The motivation behind his new deal 
➖ A special bond with his team-mates 
➖ That ABBA-inspired chant 
 
In conversation with <a href="https://twitter.com/ECavaniOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ECavaniOfficial</a>: sit back, relax and enjoy! 🍿<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cavani2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cavani2022</a>
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/1391819072510255106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"From the very first moment I arrived, I felt the confidence of the manager. As a player, this belief gives you the perfect opportunity to play your best&nbsp;football&nbsp;and I want to thank him for that.

"I have been touched with how much the supporters have wanted me to stay, and I will give everything to bring them happiness and joy with my performances on the field. I've not yet been able to play in front of the Old Trafford crowd and that is something that I cannot wait to do."

Manchester United's Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani has signed a one-year contract extension at the Old Trafford outfit has hit a purple patch in recent matches, the Premier League club said on Monday.

Manchester United's Uruguayan striker Edinson Cavani has signed a one-year contract extension at the Old Trafford outfit has hit a purple patch in recent matches, the Premier League club said on Monday. Free-agent Cavani arrived at United on a one-year contract in October with an option of another 12 months but was undecided about his future after a difficult start to life at the club after a social media faux pas resulted in a three-game ban. The former Paris St Germain forward's father had said in March that the player was uncomfortable in England and wanted to return to South America, having held talks with Boca Juniors president Juan Roman Riquelme about signing for the club. However, Cavani overcame his early issues to take his goal tally for United to 15 from 35 games in all competitions so far, with eight goals in seven matches including one in Sunday's 3-1 league win over Aston Villa. "Over the season, I've developed a great affection for the club and everything it represents," Cavani said in a statement. "I feel a deep bond with my teammates and the staff who work behind the scenes here. They give me extra motivation every day and I know that, together, we can achieve special things. ➖ The motivation behind his new deal ➖ A special bond with his team-mates ➖ That ABBA-inspired chant In conversation with @ECavaniOfficial: sit back, relax and enjoy! 🍿#MUFC #Cavani2022 — Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 10, 2021 × "From the very first moment I arrived, I felt the confidence of the manager. As a player, this belief gives you the perfect opportunity to play your best football and I want to thank him for that. "I have been touched with how much the supporters have wanted me to stay, and I will give everything to bring them happiness and joy with my performances on the field. I've not yet been able to play in front of the Old Trafford crowd and that is something that I cannot wait to do."

Edinson Cavani extends Manchester United stay with one-year deal

The Premier League has welcomed the British government's announcement on the easing of lockdown restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic and Chief Executive Richard Masters said on Monday it is their priority to have full stadiums next season.

The government said in February that under the third stage of its four-stage "roadmap", stadiums would - if all conditions are met - from May 17 be allowed to hold up to 50% of their capacity, or 4,000 people, whichever is lower.

A special provision will be made for large outdoor, seated venues, so that they can open their doors to up to 10,000 people or 25% of the capacity, whichever is lower.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed on Monday the roadmap would progress as planned.

"It'll be brilliant to see fans back. They've been hugely missed and the Premier League hasn't been the same without them. Their presence will ensure a fantastic finale to the end of our season," Masters said.

Matches in England's top-flight have taken place behind closed doors since June, apart from a brief window late last year when small crowds were allowed before a resurgence of COVID-19 cases.

The Premier League said last week attendance for the penultimate round of matches to be played on May 18-19 and the final day May 23 would be restricted to home fans.

"Although only a small number of home fans will be at our matches next week, this is an important step in our return to normality," Masters added.

"We'll continue to work with the government and other authorities as our priority is to have full vibrant stadiums – including away supporters - from the start of next season. Only then will we get back to the real Premier League."

A crowd of 8,000 watched Manchester City beat Tottenham Hotspur in the League Cup final on April 25, while this weekend's FA Cup final is expected to have 21,000 fans present.

The Premier League has welcomed the British government's announcement on the easing of lockdown restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic and Chief Executive Richard Masters said on Monday it is their priority to have full stadiums next season.

The Premier League has welcomed the British government's announcement on the easing of lockdown restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic and Chief Executive Richard Masters said on Monday it is their priority to have full stadiums next season. The government said in February that under the third stage of its four-stage "roadmap", stadiums would - if all conditions are met - from May 17 be allowed to hold up to 50% of their capacity, or 4,000 people, whichever is lower. A special provision will be made for large outdoor, seated venues, so that they can open their doors to up to 10,000 people or 25% of the capacity, whichever is lower. Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed on Monday the roadmap would progress as planned. "It'll be brilliant to see fans back. They've been hugely missed and the Premier League hasn't been the same without them. Their presence will ensure a fantastic finale to the end of our season," Masters said. Matches in England's top-flight have taken place behind closed doors since June, apart from a brief window late last year when small crowds were allowed before a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. The Premier League said last week attendance for the penultimate round of matches to be played on May 18-19 and the final day May 23 would be restricted to home fans. "Although only a small number of home fans will be at our matches next week, this is an important step in our return to normality," Masters added. "We'll continue to work with the government and other authorities as our priority is to have full vibrant stadiums – including away supporters - from the start of next season. Only then will we get back to the real Premier League." A crowd of 8,000 watched Manchester City beat Tottenham Hotspur in the League Cup final on April 25, while this weekend's FA Cup final is expected to have 21,000 fans present.

Premier League anticipates full stadiums next season

Gianluigi Buffon said Tuesday that he will bring the curtain down on his time at Juventus after nearly two decades at the end of the season, but will look to prolong his trophy-filled career elsewhere at the age of 43.

Former Italy captain Buffon is an iconic figure in Italian football, one of the stars of the Azzurri's 2006 World Cup triumph who racked up a record 176 caps for his country.

However he has been behind Wojciech Szczesny&nbsp;in the goalkeeping pecking order since returning to Juve from a short spell at Paris Saint-Germain in 2019 and has made just 12 appearances in all competitions this season.

"My future is clear, at the end of the season I'm leaving Juve, and then I will either find something that stimulates me or I will quit the game," he said in an interview with BeIN Sport.

"I have both given and received everything at Juventus, but we have come to the end of a cycle and it's only right that I put an end to any confusion (over his future)."

Buffon, who holds the record for Serie A appearances, has won 10 Serie A titles with Juventus since joining in 2001, as well as five Italian Cups and second-tier Serie B in 2007 after they were relegated in the aftermath of the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

He also won Ligue 1 with Paris Saint-Germain in 2018-2019 before returning to the Turin giants, and the UEFA Cup back in 1999 with Parma, where he began his career as a teenager in 1995.

However he has never won the Champions League after losing finals with Juve in 2003, 2015 and 2017.

Gianluigi Buffon said Tuesday that he will bring the curtain down on his time at Juventus after nearly two decades at the end of the season, but will look to prolong his trophy-filled career elsewhere at the age of 43.

Gianluigi Buffon said Tuesday that he will bring the curtain down on his time at Juventus after nearly two decades at the end of the season, but will look to prolong his trophy-filled career elsewhere at the age of 43. Former Italy captain Buffon is an iconic figure in Italian football, one of the stars of the Azzurri's 2006 World Cup triumph who racked up a record 176 caps for his country. However he has been behind Wojciech Szczesny in the goalkeeping pecking order since returning to Juve from a short spell at Paris Saint-Germain in 2019 and has made just 12 appearances in all competitions this season. "My future is clear, at the end of the season I'm leaving Juve, and then I will either find something that stimulates me or I will quit the game," he said in an interview with BeIN Sport. "I have both given and received everything at Juventus, but we have come to the end of a cycle and it's only right that I put an end to any confusion (over his future)." Buffon, who holds the record for Serie A appearances, has won 10 Serie A titles with Juventus since joining in 2001, as well as five Italian Cups and second-tier Serie B in 2007 after they were relegated in the aftermath of the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal. He also won Ligue 1 with Paris Saint-Germain in 2018-2019 before returning to the Turin giants, and the UEFA Cup back in 1999 with Parma, where he began his career as a teenager in 1995. However he has never won the Champions League after losing finals with Juve in 2003, 2015 and 2017.

Buffon to quit Juventus at end of season

The battle to remain in Spain’s top-flight this season has been nothing short of a thriller. While the top four sides in LaLiga continue to their battle for the coveted trophy, at least six teams are fiercely fighting to save their status in LaLiga in what has been a relentless relegation battle in Spain. <o:p></o:p>

On Tuesday, Elche will take on Alaves as another humdinger awaits the football fans in LaLiga’s relegation battle. While Elche are 19th in the league with 30 points in 35 matches, Alaves are sitting 16th - just outside the relegation zone - with 34 points in 35 matches in LaLiga.<o:p></o:p>

However, with not much to separate between the bottom-ranked sides in LaLiga, Elche will have both Real Valladolid and Alaves in their sights. Elche bagged a crucial win over Levante but have since lost to Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad to hover in the relegation zone.

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Elche optimistic of surviving&nbsp;relegation:&nbsp;Fran Escriba</o:p></h2>

The Fran Escriba-managed outfit was promoted to LaLiga last season and will finish their 2020-21 campaign against Cadiz and Atletico Bilbao. However, a defeat to Alaves will leave them in a spot of bother. <o:p></o:p>

“Apart from our game, the most important one, they didn’t go against us. The results didn’t go in our favour, but neither did they go against. We have the same options and we are 6 teams in there. Obviously, the ones that have some more points have better chances. But I think we are all quite even, with a match less to go. And obviously, that makes the game. Being a direct rival, who we would overtake in the table in case of winning, it makes it a “great final”, because we had already said that the games would be finals. In the end, it affects the only team that is competing with us directly,” Elche manager Fran Escriba told WION as shared by LaLiga.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spain-legend-iniesta-to-stay-with-japans-kobe-for-two-more-years-384256" hreflang="en">Spain legend Iniesta to stay with Japan's Kobe for two more years</a>

<o:p><img alt="Elche" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="62ce482d-cfbc-4c53-a733-4d8fb62e7663" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_94X27T.jpg" /></o:p>

Has the defeat to Real Sociedad really dented Elche’s confidence when it comes to grinding out results to save themselves from the drop? Escriba reckons the results of other teams over the weekend have cheered the squad a little bit and the optimism is going to play a major role in defining their season.<o:p></o:p>

“The disappointment of Friday, after a game in which we couldn’t do much more than we did, play a very good game in terms of will and order and so but it got conditioned right from the start. The team was not left highly affected, but it’s a defeat, although it was a conditioned one. But it’s true that the results on Saturday and Sunday have cheered us a bit. If we kept believing on Friday, obviously after the results that have left it all more or less the same, obviously, we have that optimism that people give us. Because on the streets people transmit optimism and confidence in the team, and that’s also there among&nbsp;the group,” Escriba added.

<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Alaves will head into the much-awaited clash on the back of a 2-2 draw against Levante on Saturday. Manager Javier Calleja, who has been in charge of Alaves since the start of April, has made a mark in the LaLiga while winning two, drawing three and losing just one of his six matches.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zinedine-zidane-bewildered-by-handball-decision-as-real-title-hopes-slip-384006" hreflang="en">Zinedine Zidane bewildered by handball decision as Real title hopes slip</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">We only know how to play to win: Javier Calleja</h2>

El Glorioso are in their fifth straight season at this level of football and had finished ninth, 14th and 11th before ending the 2019-20 campaign in the 16th spot. However, they are currently 16th in the table and are just two clear of 18th-ranked Huesca and could be in trouble with a defeat against Elche.

<img alt="Alaves" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ff20c7ff-eb55-43ae-8a4c-2a0b03179259" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Alaves.JPG" />

<o:p></o:p>

Notably, Alaves have two tough outings to close the LaLiga season as they host Granada and then face Sevilla in the final matchday.<o:p></o:p>

“It’s a really important game. We play against a direct rival, and in case of a victory, we would leave them 5 points behind with 6 left to play. So, of course, it is a fundamental game. We face it like a final, like so many others we have lived since I am here. But we know there is less time left now,” Calleja told WION as shared by LaLiga.<o:p></o:p>

“We don’t know how to play to not lose, we only know how to play to win. It’s my mindset. I don’t know how to face a game to draw. So, what I try to teach the team is not to speculate. We have to focus on the game, on what we have to do during 90 minutes and not go out and wait for it and let minutes go by and let the opponents gain terrain and feel comfortable. We have to aim for victory. We have to know how to play and be intelligent and have a cold mind. But we can’t let the minutes go by without anything happening,” the Alaves manager&nbsp;added.<o:p></o:p>

So who will bag the crucial win in the match between Elche and Alaves as the battle in the relegation zone heats up? Watch Elche CF vs Deportivo Alaves on Tuesday at 11:30 PM on Facebook Watch.<o:p></o:p>

The battle to remain in Spain’s top-flight this season has been nothing short of a thriller. While the top four sides in LaLiga continue to their battle for the coveted trophy, at least six teams are fiercely fighting to save their status in LaLiga in what has been a relentless relegation battle in Spain.

The battle to remain in Spain’s top-flight this season has been nothing short of a thriller. While the top four sides in LaLiga continue to their battle for the coveted trophy, at least six teams are fiercely fighting to save their status in LaLiga in what has been a relentless relegation battle in Spain. On Tuesday, Elche will take on Alaves as another humdinger awaits the football fans in LaLiga’s relegation battle. While Elche are 19th in the league with 30 points in 35 matches, Alaves are sitting 16th - just outside the relegation zone - with 34 points in 35 matches in LaLiga. However, with not much to separate between the bottom-ranked sides in LaLiga, Elche will have both Real Valladolid and Alaves in their sights. Elche bagged a crucial win over Levante but have since lost to Atletico Madrid and Real Sociedad to hover in the relegation zone. Elche optimistic of surviving relegation: Fran Escriba The Fran Escriba-managed outfit was promoted to LaLiga last season and will finish their 2020-21 campaign against Cadiz and Atletico Bilbao. However, a defeat to Alaves will leave them in a spot of bother. “Apart from our game, the most important one, they didn’t go against us. The results didn’t go in our favour, but neither did they go against. We have the same options and we are 6 teams in there. Obviously, the ones that have some more points have better chances. But I think we are all quite even, with a match less to go. And obviously, that makes the game. Being a direct rival, who we would overtake in the table in case of winning, it makes it a “great final”, because we had already said that the games would be finals. In the end, it affects the only team that is competing with us directly,” Elche manager Fran Escriba told WION as shared by LaLiga. ALSO READ: Spain legend Iniesta to stay with Japan's Kobe for two more years Has the defeat to Real Sociedad really dented Elche’s confidence when it comes to grinding out results to save themselves from the drop? Escriba reckons the results of other teams over the weekend have cheered the squad a little bit and the optimism is going to play a major role in defining their season. “The disappointment of Friday, after a game in which we couldn’t do much more than we did, play a very good game in terms of will and order and so but it got conditioned right from the start. The team was not left highly affected, but it’s a defeat, although it was a conditioned one. But it’s true that the results on Saturday and Sunday have cheered us a bit. If we kept believing on Friday, obviously after the results that have left it all more or less the same, obviously, we have that optimism that people give us. Because on the streets people transmit optimism and confidence in the team, and that’s also there among the group,” Escriba added. Meanwhile, Alaves will head into the much-awaited clash on the back of a 2-2 draw against Levante on Saturday. Manager Javier Calleja, who has been in charge of Alaves since the start of April, has made a mark in the LaLiga while winning two, drawing three and losing just one of his six matches. ALSO READ: Zinedine Zidane bewildered by handball decision as Real title hopes slip We only know how to play to win: Javier Calleja El Glorioso are in their fifth straight season at this level of football and had finished ninth, 14th and 11th before ending the 2019-20 campaign in the 16th spot. However, they are currently 16th in the table and are just two clear of 18th-ranked Huesca and could be in trouble with a defeat against Elche. Notably, Alaves have two tough outings to close the LaLiga season as they host Granada and then face Sevilla in the final matchday. “It’s a really important game. We play against a direct rival, and in case of a victory, we would leave them 5 points behind with 6 left to play. So, of course, it is a fundamental game. We face it like a final, like so many others we have lived since I am here. But we know there is less time left now,” Calleja told WION as shared by LaLiga. “We don’t know how to play to not lose, we only know how to play to win. It’s my mindset. I don’t know how to face a game to draw. So, what I try to teach the team is not to speculate. We have to focus on the game, on what we have to do during 90 minutes and not go out and wait for it and let minutes go by and let the opponents gain terrain and feel comfortable. We have to aim for victory. We have to know how to play and be intelligent and have a cold mind. But we can’t let the minutes go by without anything happening,” the Alaves manager added. So who will bag the crucial win in the match between Elche and Alaves as the battle in the relegation zone heats up? Watch Elche CF vs Deportivo Alaves on Tuesday at 11:30 PM on Facebook Watch.

Elche vs Alaves: Battle for survival heats up in LaLiga as two head coaches keep calm

Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta celebrated his 37th birthday on Tuesday by signing a contract extension that will keep him at J-League side Vissel Kobe for two more years.

The former Barcelona midfield maestro joined Kobe in 2018 in a deal worth a reported $30 million a year and recently recovered from a serious thigh injury.

"I will continue on my quest to make Vissel Kobe a stronger club," said the World Cup-winning midfielder, speaking through a Japanese translator.

"I am determined to contribute as much as possible to bring this team to a higher level," he added sitting alongside Kobe's tech-billionaire owner Hiroshi Mikitani.

Iniesta's debut at Kobe in July 2018 ended with an embarrassing home defeat, but he helped lead the team to their first Japanese Super Cup title in 2020.

Iniesta has enjoyed huge popularity in Japan with analysts estimating he has generated more than $100 million in ticket sales and merchandising revenue. He has appeared in TV commercials for Japanese sake and mobile phone services.

Named Kobe's captain in April 2019 after a shake-up at the club, Iniesta was sidelined for several months after he suffered a ruptured tendon in his right thigh last December.

Following surgery in Barcelona, he was back training in April before returning to action in the J-League this month.

Widely considered one of the most gifted midfielders of all time, he scored the winning goal as Spain won the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, and he was a key member of the European Championship-winning side's of 2008 and 2012.

Iniesta was the driving force behind four Champions League wins with Barcelona and helped the Catalan club secure domestic trebles in 2009 and 2015.&nbsp;

He also won nine La Liga titles, two European Super Cups and three FIFA Club World Cups, leaving Barcelona as the most decorated Spanish player of all time, with more than 30 trophies for club and country.

His decision to join Kobe after 22 years at Barcelona, 16 of them as a first team player, was seen as a coup for Japanese football, which had been struggling to attract big names tempted by cash-rich Chinese clubs in the twilight of their careers.

Kobe owner Mikitani said Iniesta's decision to stay will help the team's ambition to be the top club in Asia while elevating the standard of football in Japan.

Iniesta "has not just improved Vissel's status, but he has improved the global recognition of the J-League,"&nbsp;Mikitani said.

Iniesta said he wanted to stay engaged with Vissel Kobe once his playing days were over, although he did not say in what capacity.

Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta celebrated his 37th birthday on Tuesday by signing a contract extension that will keep him at J-League side Vissel Kobe for two more years.

Spanish football legend Andres Iniesta celebrated his 37th birthday on Tuesday by signing a contract extension that will keep him at J-League side Vissel Kobe for two more years. The former Barcelona midfield maestro joined Kobe in 2018 in a deal worth a reported $30 million a year and recently recovered from a serious thigh injury. "I will continue on my quest to make Vissel Kobe a stronger club," said the World Cup-winning midfielder, speaking through a Japanese translator. "I am determined to contribute as much as possible to bring this team to a higher level," he added sitting alongside Kobe's tech-billionaire owner Hiroshi Mikitani. Iniesta's debut at Kobe in July 2018 ended with an embarrassing home defeat, but he helped lead the team to their first Japanese Super Cup title in 2020. Iniesta has enjoyed huge popularity in Japan with analysts estimating he has generated more than $100 million in ticket sales and merchandising revenue. He has appeared in TV commercials for Japanese sake and mobile phone services. Named Kobe's captain in April 2019 after a shake-up at the club, Iniesta was sidelined for several months after he suffered a ruptured tendon in his right thigh last December. Following surgery in Barcelona, he was back training in April before returning to action in the J-League this month. Widely considered one of the most gifted midfielders of all time, he scored the winning goal as Spain won the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, and he was a key member of the European Championship-winning side's of 2008 and 2012. Iniesta was the driving force behind four Champions League wins with Barcelona and helped the Catalan club secure domestic trebles in 2009 and 2015. He also won nine La Liga titles, two European Super Cups and three FIFA Club World Cups, leaving Barcelona as the most decorated Spanish player of all time, with more than 30 trophies for club and country. His decision to join Kobe after 22 years at Barcelona, 16 of them as a first team player, was seen as a coup for Japanese football, which had been struggling to attract big names tempted by cash-rich Chinese clubs in the twilight of their careers. Kobe owner Mikitani said Iniesta's decision to stay will help the team's ambition to be the top club in Asia while elevating the standard of football in Japan. Iniesta "has not just improved Vissel's status, but he has improved the global recognition of the J-League," Mikitani said. Iniesta said he wanted to stay engaged with Vissel Kobe once his playing days were over, although he did not say in what capacity.

Spain legend Iniesta to stay with Japan's Kobe for two more years

Fulham were relegated from the Premier League with a 2-0 loss at home to Burnley on Monday that assured the Clarets of their top-flight status.

London club Fulham will now join already-demoted West Bromwich Albion and Sheffield United in the second-tier Championship next season.

Fulham had to avoid defeat at Craven Cottage on Monday to maintain their slim hopes of beating the drop.

But first-half goals from Burnley's Ashley Westwood and Chris Wood put paid to their chances of staying up.

Fulham's defeat also meant all three relegation places were decided with at least three games to go, ensuring there would be no last-day drama in the battle to beat the drop.&nbsp;

"It has been looming but it doesn't hide the disappointment, hurt and sadness I feel tonight," Fulham manager Scott Parker told the BBC.&nbsp;

"It's inevitable now. I am gutted.

"Tonight is how the season has gone at times. Between the two boxes we did very well. The difference was defensively the two goals we conceded were poor and in the final moment when you need to score and make good decisions we did not have that."

<h2>- 'Rollercoaster' -</h2>

Monday's reverse meant Fulham went straight back down after a season in the top flight, with Parker adding: "The club needs to make big decisions.&nbsp;

"We've had a relegation, a promotion and a relegation. The rollercoaster of that and the highs and lows is not something you want."

Burnley were sold in February to a US-based consortium and Clarets manager Sean Dyche was proud of the way the Clarets had coped on and off the field during some uncertain times for the northwest side.

"It is important for the club, it is important for the town," he said.&nbsp;

"It's been a real challenging season with the sale of the club.

"There was not a lot of investment from the outgoing owners and we've had a lot of injury problems," he added.

Burnley were twice denied early by Fulham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, before they went ahead in the 35th minute when Westwood, found at the back post by Matej Vydra, slotted the ball into the net.

The visitors then doubled their lead a minute before the break when Wood let fly with a shot into the top corner.

Areola appeared fortunate to stay on the field in the 67th minute when, after he had raced out his area, the ball appeared to come off the keeper's arm as Vydra tried to go around him.

But there was no VAR intervention, with officials deciding Areola had escaped a red card because the presence of a covering defender meant there had not been a denial of a goalscoring opportunity.

VAR is not empowered to recommend a booking, hence the lack of even a yellow card.

But Fulham's luck ran out at the other end of the pitch in the 70th minute when Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa's shot beat Burnley keeper Nick Pope only to bounce clear off the underside of the bar.

Fulham were relegated from the Premier League with a 2-0 loss at home to Burnley on Monday that assured the Clarets of their top-flight status. London club Fulham will now join already-demoted West Bromwich Albion and Sheffield United in the second-tier Championship next season.

Fulham were relegated from the Premier League with a 2-0 loss at home to Burnley on Monday that assured the Clarets of their top-flight status. London club Fulham will now join already-demoted West Bromwich Albion and Sheffield United in the second-tier Championship next season. Fulham had to avoid defeat at Craven Cottage on Monday to maintain their slim hopes of beating the drop. But first-half goals from Burnley's Ashley Westwood and Chris Wood put paid to their chances of staying up. Fulham's defeat also meant all three relegation places were decided with at least three games to go, ensuring there would be no last-day drama in the battle to beat the drop. "It has been looming but it doesn't hide the disappointment, hurt and sadness I feel tonight," Fulham manager Scott Parker told the BBC. "It's inevitable now. I am gutted. "Tonight is how the season has gone at times. Between the two boxes we did very well. The difference was defensively the two goals we conceded were poor and in the final moment when you need to score and make good decisions we did not have that." - 'Rollercoaster' - Monday's reverse meant Fulham went straight back down after a season in the top flight, with Parker adding: "The club needs to make big decisions. "We've had a relegation, a promotion and a relegation. The rollercoaster of that and the highs and lows is not something you want." Burnley were sold in February to a US-based consortium and Clarets manager Sean Dyche was proud of the way the Clarets had coped on and off the field during some uncertain times for the northwest side. "It is important for the club, it is important for the town," he said. "It's been a real challenging season with the sale of the club. "There was not a lot of investment from the outgoing owners and we've had a lot of injury problems," he added. Burnley were twice denied early by Fulham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, before they went ahead in the 35th minute when Westwood, found at the back post by Matej Vydra, slotted the ball into the net. The visitors then doubled their lead a minute before the break when Wood let fly with a shot into the top corner. Areola appeared fortunate to stay on the field in the 67th minute when, after he had raced out his area, the ball appeared to come off the keeper's arm as Vydra tried to go around him. But there was no VAR intervention, with officials deciding Areola had escaped a red card because the presence of a covering defender meant there had not been a denial of a goalscoring opportunity. VAR is not empowered to recommend a booking, hence the lack of even a yellow card. But Fulham's luck ran out at the other end of the pitch in the 70th minute when Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa's shot beat Burnley keeper Nick Pope only to bounce clear off the underside of the bar.

Fulham relegated from Premier League after Burnley loss

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane was left baffled after two handball calls went against his side in Sunday's enthralling 2-2 draw at home to Sevilla which left Los Blancos still trailing La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid in the title race.

With the game poised at 1-1, Real's Eder Militao was penalized after a VAR review for touching the ball with his hand as he jumped to defend a cross.

The decision meant that a penalty that had been awarded to the hosts moments earlier for a foul on Karim Benzema by Sevilla goalkeeper Bono was overruled.

Ivan Rakitic scored from the spot to restore Sevilla's lead but a Diego Carlos own goal in the 93rd minute snatched a point for Real to leave them two points behind Atletico.

Zidane's side had appealed for a penalty in the first half when the ball struck Sevilla's Joan Jordan arm although, unlike Militao, the midfielder had not extended his arm.

"I don't understand it at all. If it's a handball against Militao it has to be a handball against Sevilla too," Zidane told Spanish network Movistar Plus.

The French coach prides himself on rarely discussing refereeing decisions but he took to the pitch after the game to remonstrate with official Juan Martinez Munuera.

"He told me that Militao's was a handball but he didn't convince me," added Zidane.

"I never speak about the referee but today I'm angry. In the end it is what it is and what I say won't change anything. I'm happy with how my team played, we deserved more as we were spectacular in the second half."

Real director Emilio Butragueno joined Zidane in expressing his frustration with the decision, recalling his side were denied a penalty against Atletico in March when the ball came off the hand of defender Felipe when he jumped for a header.

"We're not having much luck with plays like this. We've been in a few similar situations this season and once again the decision went against us," he said.

"It was an absolutely decisive decision given the moment in the game and what it meant, a penalty for Sevilla or a penalty for Real Madrid.

"We're concerned as there have been some similar plays which in theory would have gone in our favor and the outcome has been different. We're left feeling a little uneasy."

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane was left baffled after two handball calls went against his side in Sunday's enthralling 2-2 draw at home to Sevilla which left Los Blancos still trailing La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid in the title race.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane was left baffled after two handball calls went against his side in Sunday's enthralling 2-2 draw at home to Sevilla which left Los Blancos still trailing La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid in the title race. With the game poised at 1-1, Real's Eder Militao was penalized after a VAR review for touching the ball with his hand as he jumped to defend a cross. The decision meant that a penalty that had been awarded to the hosts moments earlier for a foul on Karim Benzema by Sevilla goalkeeper Bono was overruled. Ivan Rakitic scored from the spot to restore Sevilla's lead but a Diego Carlos own goal in the 93rd minute snatched a point for Real to leave them two points behind Atletico. Zidane's side had appealed for a penalty in the first half when the ball struck Sevilla's Joan Jordan arm although, unlike Militao, the midfielder had not extended his arm. "I don't understand it at all. If it's a handball against Militao it has to be a handball against Sevilla too," Zidane told Spanish network Movistar Plus. The French coach prides himself on rarely discussing refereeing decisions but he took to the pitch after the game to remonstrate with official Juan Martinez Munuera. "He told me that Militao's was a handball but he didn't convince me," added Zidane. "I never speak about the referee but today I'm angry. In the end it is what it is and what I say won't change anything. I'm happy with how my team played, we deserved more as we were spectacular in the second half." Real director Emilio Butragueno joined Zidane in expressing his frustration with the decision, recalling his side were denied a penalty against Atletico in March when the ball came off the hand of defender Felipe when he jumped for a header. "We're not having much luck with plays like this. We've been in a few similar situations this season and once again the decision went against us," he said. "It was an absolutely decisive decision given the moment in the game and what it meant, a penalty for Sevilla or a penalty for Real Madrid. "We're concerned as there have been some similar plays which in theory would have gone in our favor and the outcome has been different. We're left feeling a little uneasy."

Zinedine Zidane bewildered by handball decision as Real title hopes slip

Italian footballing giants Juventus face being kicked out of Serie A if the club do not withdraw from the controversial European Super League, Italian football federation (FIGC) president Gabriele Gravina has said.<o:p></o:p>

While AC Milan and Inter pulled out of the breakaway competition along with English Premier League clubs, Juventus continue to persist with the plans of ESL.<o:p></o:p>

"The rules are clear. If Juventus is still part of the Super League when it enters next season, it can't participate in Serie A," Gravina told Naples radio station Kiss Kiss.

"I would be sorry for the fans but rules are rules and they apply to everyone. I hope this holdout ends."

<o:p></o:p>

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On Saturday, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus – three clubs still part of ESL – lashed out at the “intolerable” pressure and threats to abandon the ESL but vowed to stay with the idea despite its rejection from the fans and stakeholders. <o:p></o:p>

Three ESL clubs of the original 12 issued a joint statement on the weekend while defending their move to create the ESL and expressed “regret” at seeing others recommit to the UEFA on Friday.<o:p></o:p>

The three clubs – Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus – are also set to face “appropriate action” by UEFA for their role in the ESL.<o:p></o:p>

Their statement read: "The founding clubs have suffered, and continue to suffer, unacceptable third-party pressures, threats, and offenses to abandon the project and therefore desist from their right and duty to provide solutions to the football ecosystem via concrete proposals and constructive dialogue.<o:p></o:p>

"This is intolerable under the rule of law and tribunals have already ruled in favour of the Super League proposal, ordering FIFA and UEFA to, either directly or through their affiliated bodies, refrain from taking any action which may hinder this initiative in any way while court proceedings are pending.<o:p></o:p>

"The Super League project was designed jointly by its 12 founding clubs with the aim of providing solutions to the current unsustainable situation in the football industry. The 12 founding clubs shared the same concerns as other stakeholders in European football do, particularly under the current socio-economic context, that structural reforms are indispensable to ensure our sport stays appealing and survives in the long-term.<o:p></o:p>

"(The Super League project was designed jointly by its 12 founding clubs also) with the utmost respect for the current football structures and ecosystem. The founding clubs expressly agreed that the Super League would only take place if such a competition was recognised by UEFA and/or FIFA or if, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, it was deemed to be a competition duly compatible for all purposes with the continuity of the founding clubs in their respective domestic competitions.” <o:p></o:p>

Italian footballing giants Juventus face being kicked out of Serie A if the club do not withdraw from the controversial European Super League, Italian football federation (FIGC) president Gabriele Gravina has said.

Italian footballing giants Juventus face being kicked out of Serie A if the club do not withdraw from the controversial European Super League, Italian football federation (FIGC) president Gabriele Gravina has said. While AC Milan and Inter pulled out of the breakaway competition along with English Premier League clubs, Juventus continue to persist with the plans of ESL. "The rules are clear. If Juventus is still part of the Super League when it enters next season, it can't participate in Serie A," Gravina told Naples radio station Kiss Kiss. "I would be sorry for the fans but rules are rules and they apply to everyone. I hope this holdout ends." × On Saturday, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus – three clubs still part of ESL – lashed out at the “intolerable” pressure and threats to abandon the ESL but vowed to stay with the idea despite its rejection from the fans and stakeholders. Three ESL clubs of the original 12 issued a joint statement on the weekend while defending their move to create the ESL and expressed “regret” at seeing others recommit to the UEFA on Friday. The three clubs – Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus – are also set to face “appropriate action” by UEFA for their role in the ESL. Their statement read: "The founding clubs have suffered, and continue to suffer, unacceptable third-party pressures, threats, and offenses to abandon the project and therefore desist from their right and duty to provide solutions to the football ecosystem via concrete proposals and constructive dialogue. "This is intolerable under the rule of law and tribunals have already ruled in favour of the Super League proposal, ordering FIFA and UEFA to, either directly or through their affiliated bodies, refrain from taking any action which may hinder this initiative in any way while court proceedings are pending. "The Super League project was designed jointly by its 12 founding clubs with the aim of providing solutions to the current unsustainable situation in the football industry. The 12 founding clubs shared the same concerns as other stakeholders in European football do, particularly under the current socio-economic context, that structural reforms are indispensable to ensure our sport stays appealing and survives in the long-term. "(The Super League project was designed jointly by its 12 founding clubs also) with the utmost respect for the current football structures and ecosystem. The founding clubs expressly agreed that the Super League would only take place if such a competition was recognised by UEFA and/or FIFA or if, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, it was deemed to be a competition duly compatible for all purposes with the continuity of the founding clubs in their respective domestic competitions.”

Juventus face Serie A omission if ESL plans persist: Italian FA president

Juventus started the season looking to win a 10th straight Serie A title but instead find themselves in danger of missing out on a Champions League spot after a 3-0 home defeat by top-four rivals AC Milan on Sunday left them fifth with three games left.

Goals from Brahim Diaz, Ante Rebic, and Fikayo Tomori secured the win and sent Milan up to third on 72 points from 35 matches, leaving Juve a point behind fourth-placed Napoli and needing teams to drop points as they battle for a top-four finish.

Brahim curled home a stunning opener just before the break to give the visitors the halftime lead and they had a chance to extend the advantage in the 56th minute only for Franck Kessie's penalty to be saved by Wojciech Szczesny.

That miss did not prove costly, however, as substitute Rebic arrowed a fine strike into the net 12 minutes from time before defender Tomori, on loan from Chelsea, headed the third goal to seal a crucial win for Milan four minutes later.

"It was a very special night for us," Tomori told Sky Sport Italia. "This result and my goal made the night special.

"This victory gives us an advantage but nothing has been decided yet in the top-four race. Now we have to continue like this and stay focused for the next match against Torino."

Used to battling it out for the Scudetto in the past, Juve and Milan looked like two teams who were unsure of a top-four finish in a nervous first half.

Other than a header from Giorgio Chiellini, Juve struggled to create anything, with Cristiano Ronaldo unusually quiet.

Brahim lit up a poor first half after Szczesny did not get enough on a punch, with the Real Madrid loanee finding the top corner on his first start for Milan since March.

After the break, Juve did improve, with Ronaldo finally getting a shot away, but he could not find the target with his left foot, while Milan had to withdraw their top goalscorer this season, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, due to an injury.

Chiellini's clumsy handball gifted Milan the chance to extend their lead, after a lengthy VAR review. However, Szczesny came to the rescue - the Pole's third penalty save from the last four spot-kicks he has faced in Serie A against Milan.

It was Ibrahimovic's replacement Rebic who effectively ended Juve's hopes of getting something from the match before Tomori picked an opportune moment to score his first goal for Milan.

The final whistle was greeted with wild scenes of celebration from Milan staff and players, with their first away league win at Juve since March 2011 putting them in a strong position to return to the Champions League, potentially at their opponent's expense.

Juventus started the season looking to win a 10th straight Serie A title but instead find themselves in danger of missing out on a Champions League spot after a 3-0 home defeat by top-four rivals AC Milan on Sunday left them fifth with three games left.

Juventus started the season looking to win a 10th straight Serie A title but instead find themselves in danger of missing out on a Champions League spot after a 3-0 home defeat by top-four rivals AC Milan on Sunday left them fifth with three games left. Goals from Brahim Diaz, Ante Rebic, and Fikayo Tomori secured the win and sent Milan up to third on 72 points from 35 matches, leaving Juve a point behind fourth-placed Napoli and needing teams to drop points as they battle for a top-four finish. Brahim curled home a stunning opener just before the break to give the visitors the halftime lead and they had a chance to extend the advantage in the 56th minute only for Franck Kessie's penalty to be saved by Wojciech Szczesny. That miss did not prove costly, however, as substitute Rebic arrowed a fine strike into the net 12 minutes from time before defender Tomori, on loan from Chelsea, headed the third goal to seal a crucial win for Milan four minutes later. "It was a very special night for us," Tomori told Sky Sport Italia. "This result and my goal made the night special. "This victory gives us an advantage but nothing has been decided yet in the top-four race. Now we have to continue like this and stay focused for the next match against Torino." Used to battling it out for the Scudetto in the past, Juve and Milan looked like two teams who were unsure of a top-four finish in a nervous first half. Other than a header from Giorgio Chiellini, Juve struggled to create anything, with Cristiano Ronaldo unusually quiet. Brahim lit up a poor first half after Szczesny did not get enough on a punch, with the Real Madrid loanee finding the top corner on his first start for Milan since March. After the break, Juve did improve, with Ronaldo finally getting a shot away, but he could not find the target with his left foot, while Milan had to withdraw their top goalscorer this season, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, due to an injury. Chiellini's clumsy handball gifted Milan the chance to extend their lead, after a lengthy VAR review. However, Szczesny came to the rescue - the Pole's third penalty save from the last four spot-kicks he has faced in Serie A against Milan. It was Ibrahimovic's replacement Rebic who effectively ended Juve's hopes of getting something from the match before Tomori picked an opportune moment to score his first goal for Milan. The final whistle was greeted with wild scenes of celebration from Milan staff and players, with their first away league win at Juve since March 2011 putting them in a strong position to return to the Champions League, potentially at their opponent's expense.

Juventus in danger of missing out on top four after loss to Milan

West Ham United blew their chance to apply real pressure in the race for a Premier League top-four finish as they slumped to a 1-0 home defeat by an Everton side who maintained their European qualification hopes on Sunday.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin's 24th-minute goal proved decisive against a West Ham side who huffed and puffed but never really hit their stride on a crucial afternoon.

The closest West Ham came to an equalizer was when Vladimir Coufal's shot hit the post and Jarrod Bowen could not bundle in the rebound from point-blank range.

Everton hit the post late on through Josh King and they hung on for the win that keeps them in the frame for a European spot.

West Ham remained in fifth place with 58 points, five points behind fourth-placed Leicester City with three games remaining. Liverpool are only a point behind West Ham with a game in hand.

Everton are eighth with 55 points and have four games left.

"That was a tough shift," said Calvert-Lewin, who scored his 16th league goal of the season. "We worked hard and got away with the three points. It wasn't pretty but I think with the effort we put in we deserved it in the end."

With Leicester being surprisingly beaten by Newcastle United on Friday, West Ham could have moved to within two points of Brendan Rodgers' side with a victory.

West Ham's run-in also looks far more comfortable than Leicester's, so Sunday's clash at the London Stadium felt like a huge moment in the Hammers' audacious bid for Champions League qualification for the first time.

But David Moyes' team lacked spark against his former side Everton who clocked up an 11th away league win of the season, a total only bettered by Manchester City.

Everton began in confident fashion and took the lead when Ben Godfrey's pass split West Ham's defense open and Calvert-Lewin left Craig Dawson trailing before angling his shot past Lukasz Fabianski and into the net.

West Ham should have equalized before halftime when an unmarked Said Benrahma was picked out at the far post but he directed his header narrowly off target.

Everton sunk deeper in the second half to protect their lead and enjoyed a stroke of luck when Coufal's powerful drive cannoned off the inside of the post and across goal where an off-balance Bowen somehow failed to convert the rebound.

As West Ham pushed on they were caught on the break and Calvert-Lewin played in Seamus Coleman who looked certain to score until Jesse Lingard made a superb block.

King then should have wrapped up the points for Everton but he headed against the post from close range.

West Ham United blew their chance to apply real pressure in the race for a Premier League top-four finish as they slumped to a 1-0 home defeat by an Everton side who maintained their European qualification hopes on Sunday.

West Ham United blew their chance to apply real pressure in the race for a Premier League top-four finish as they slumped to a 1-0 home defeat by an Everton side who maintained their European qualification hopes on Sunday. Dominic Calvert-Lewin's 24th-minute goal proved decisive against a West Ham side who huffed and puffed but never really hit their stride on a crucial afternoon. The closest West Ham came to an equalizer was when Vladimir Coufal's shot hit the post and Jarrod Bowen could not bundle in the rebound from point-blank range. Everton hit the post late on through Josh King and they hung on for the win that keeps them in the frame for a European spot. West Ham remained in fifth place with 58 points, five points behind fourth-placed Leicester City with three games remaining. Liverpool are only a point behind West Ham with a game in hand. Everton are eighth with 55 points and have four games left. "That was a tough shift," said Calvert-Lewin, who scored his 16th league goal of the season. "We worked hard and got away with the three points. It wasn't pretty but I think with the effort we put in we deserved it in the end." With Leicester being surprisingly beaten by Newcastle United on Friday, West Ham could have moved to within two points of Brendan Rodgers' side with a victory. West Ham's run-in also looks far more comfortable than Leicester's, so Sunday's clash at the London Stadium felt like a huge moment in the Hammers' audacious bid for Champions League qualification for the first time. But David Moyes' team lacked spark against his former side Everton who clocked up an 11th away league win of the season, a total only bettered by Manchester City. Everton began in confident fashion and took the lead when Ben Godfrey's pass split West Ham's defense open and Calvert-Lewin left Craig Dawson trailing before angling his shot past Lukasz Fabianski and into the net. West Ham should have equalized before halftime when an unmarked Said Benrahma was picked out at the far post but he directed his header narrowly off target. Everton sunk deeper in the second half to protect their lead and enjoyed a stroke of luck when Coufal's powerful drive cannoned off the inside of the post and across goal where an off-balance Bowen somehow failed to convert the rebound. As West Ham pushed on they were caught on the break and Calvert-Lewin played in Seamus Coleman who looked certain to score until Jesse Lingard made a superb block. King then should have wrapped up the points for Everton but he headed against the post from close range.

West Ham hopes for top-four dented by loss to Everton

Manchester City's Premier League title celebrations were put on hold again as Manchester United fought back to win 3-1 at Aston Villa on Sunday.

Pep Guardiola's side missed a chance to seal the title when they lost 2-1 to Chelsea on Saturday.

City could have started the party if second-placed United lost at Villa Park, but their arch-rivals kept the leaders' champagne on ice with a second-half escape act.

Trailing to Bertrand Traore's first half rocket, United equalised through Bruno Fernandes' penalty before Mason Greenwood and Edinson Cavani netted to leave City frustrated.

Asked if he was pleased to make City wait, United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: "That's the best thing. At least we don't drive into a blue army tonight. We'll try to delay it as long as we can."

City, with three matches to play, are now 10 points clear of United, who have four games left.

United host Leicester on Tuesday and Liverpool on Thursday, with a defeat in either of those matches guaranteeing the title for City, who are next in action at Newcastle on Friday.

The Europa League finalists would love to keep City waiting as long as possible as they bid to earn a runners-up finish.

But treble-chasing City's blistering form has turned the title race into a procession since the new year and it is only a matter of time before their coronation is confirmed.

They will have to wait another 48 hours at least due to the latest display of United's fortitude.

Villa took the lead in the 24th minute through Traore, who turned sharply in the penalty area and shrugged off Victor Lindelof before smashing a superb strike into the top corner from an acute angle.

But Solskjaer's team have been experts at second-half comebacks this season and Paul Pogba won a 52nd minute penalty when Douglas Luiz needlessly bundled over the United midfielder.

City's Sergio Aguero had missed a penalty against Chelsea with a risky 'Panenka' chipped effort, but Fernandes was far more clinical as he sent Villa keeper Emiliano Martinez the wrong way from the spot.

Greenwood put United ahead four minutes later as he swivelled past Tyrone Mings on the edge of the area and drove a low finish past Martinez's weak attempted save.

United suffered a blow when their captain Harry Maguire limped off after colliding with Anwar El Ghazi.

But Cavani wrapped up the points with a glancing header from Marcus Rashford's cross in the 87th minute.

Villa striker Ollie Watkins was sent off moments later for a second booking after diving in a failed attempt to win a penalty.

<h2>- Brighton rocked -</h2>

In Sunday's early game, Brighton blew a chance to secure their survival in a dramatic 2-1 defeat at Wolves.

Brighton took the lead after 13 minutes when Lewis Dunk headed in Pascal Gross' corner.

Graham Potter's side needed a victory to be sure of avoiding relegation.

But Brighton captain Dunk was sent off in the 53rd minute after he pulled back Fabio Silva as the Wolves forward raced through on goal.

Wolves made the most of their numerical advantage in the 76th minute as Adama Traore fired home after exchanging passes with Silva.

Brighton were unable to hold on and Morgan Gibbs-White won it for Wolves in the 90th minute with a fine finish for his first Premier League goal.

Adding to Brighton's woes, French striker Neal Maupay was sent off for foul and abusive language after the final whistle.

The Seagulls are 10 points above the relegation zone, with third bottom Fulham, who have four games left, playing Burnley on Monday.

Later, fifth-placed West Ham host Everton as they bid to close the gap on fourth-placed Leicester.

The Hammers, making an unexpected charge for Champions League qualification, are five points behind Leicester, who lost to Newcastle on Friday.

Second bottom West Bromwich Albion, 10 points from safety with four games left, will be relegated if they lose at Arsenal in Sunday's last game.

Manchester City's Premier League title celebrations were put on hold again as Manchester United fought back to win 3-1 at Aston Villa on Sunday. Pep Guardiola's side missed a chance to seal the title when they lost 2-1 to Chelsea on Saturday.

Manchester City's Premier League title celebrations were put on hold again as Manchester United fought back to win 3-1 at Aston Villa on Sunday. Pep Guardiola's side missed a chance to seal the title when they lost 2-1 to Chelsea on Saturday. City could have started the party if second-placed United lost at Villa Park, but their arch-rivals kept the leaders' champagne on ice with a second-half escape act. Trailing to Bertrand Traore's first half rocket, United equalised through Bruno Fernandes' penalty before Mason Greenwood and Edinson Cavani netted to leave City frustrated. Asked if he was pleased to make City wait, United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: "That's the best thing. At least we don't drive into a blue army tonight. We'll try to delay it as long as we can." City, with three matches to play, are now 10 points clear of United, who have four games left. United host Leicester on Tuesday and Liverpool on Thursday, with a defeat in either of those matches guaranteeing the title for City, who are next in action at Newcastle on Friday. The Europa League finalists would love to keep City waiting as long as possible as they bid to earn a runners-up finish. But treble-chasing City's blistering form has turned the title race into a procession since the new year and it is only a matter of time before their coronation is confirmed. They will have to wait another 48 hours at least due to the latest display of United's fortitude. Villa took the lead in the 24th minute through Traore, who turned sharply in the penalty area and shrugged off Victor Lindelof before smashing a superb strike into the top corner from an acute angle. But Solskjaer's team have been experts at second-half comebacks this season and Paul Pogba won a 52nd minute penalty when Douglas Luiz needlessly bundled over the United midfielder. City's Sergio Aguero had missed a penalty against Chelsea with a risky 'Panenka' chipped effort, but Fernandes was far more clinical as he sent Villa keeper Emiliano Martinez the wrong way from the spot. Greenwood put United ahead four minutes later as he swivelled past Tyrone Mings on the edge of the area and drove a low finish past Martinez's weak attempted save. United suffered a blow when their captain Harry Maguire limped off after colliding with Anwar El Ghazi. But Cavani wrapped up the points with a glancing header from Marcus Rashford's cross in the 87th minute. Villa striker Ollie Watkins was sent off moments later for a second booking after diving in a failed attempt to win a penalty. - Brighton rocked - In Sunday's early game, Brighton blew a chance to secure their survival in a dramatic 2-1 defeat at Wolves. Brighton took the lead after 13 minutes when Lewis Dunk headed in Pascal Gross' corner. Graham Potter's side needed a victory to be sure of avoiding relegation. But Brighton captain Dunk was sent off in the 53rd minute after he pulled back Fabio Silva as the Wolves forward raced through on goal. Wolves made the most of their numerical advantage in the 76th minute as Adama Traore fired home after exchanging passes with Silva. Brighton were unable to hold on and Morgan Gibbs-White won it for Wolves in the 90th minute with a fine finish for his first Premier League goal. Adding to Brighton's woes, French striker Neal Maupay was sent off for foul and abusive language after the final whistle. The Seagulls are 10 points above the relegation zone, with third bottom Fulham, who have four games left, playing Burnley on Monday. Later, fifth-placed West Ham host Everton as they bid to close the gap on fourth-placed Leicester. The Hammers, making an unexpected charge for Champions League qualification, are five points behind Leicester, who lost to Newcastle on Friday. Second bottom West Bromwich Albion, 10 points from safety with four games left, will be relegated if they lose at Arsenal in Sunday's last game.

Man City's title party delayed by Man Utd win at Villa

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero apologized for his failed attempt at a chipped penalty in Saturday's 2-1 Premier League defeat to Chelsea, saying it was a "bad decision".

Manchester&nbsp;City was 1-0 up when they were handed a chance to extend their lead at the break after a penalty was awarded following Billy Gilmour's challenge on Gabriel Jesus in the box.

Aguero attempted a "Panenka" penalty designed to fool the goalkeeper with a chip straight down the middle, but Chelsea keeper Edouard Mendy did not commit to his dive and was able to simply stand up and catch the gentle shot.

Manchester&nbsp;City would have been crowned league champions with a win but Chelsea scored twice after the break.

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I would like to apologise to my teammates, staff and supporters for missing the penalty. It was a bad decision and I take full responsibility.
— Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) <a href="https://twitter.com/aguerosergiokun/status/1391121393610371073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"I would like to apologize to my teammates, staff, and supporters for missing the penalty," City's all-time top scorer Aguero tweeted after the game.

"It was a bad decision and I take full responsibility."

City boss Pep Guardiola refused to criticize Aguero for his fluffed attempt and said it was wrong to argue the penalty had turned the game.

The Etihad club, who has a 13-point lead at the top of the table, could still secure the title this weekend if second-placed Manchester United lose at Aston Villa later on Sunday.

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero apologized for his failed attempt at a chipped penalty in Saturday's 2-1 Premier League defeat to Chelsea, saying it was a "bad decision".

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero apologized for his failed attempt at a chipped penalty in Saturday's 2-1 Premier League defeat to Chelsea, saying it was a "bad decision". Manchester City was 1-0 up when they were handed a chance to extend their lead at the break after a penalty was awarded following Billy Gilmour's challenge on Gabriel Jesus in the box. Aguero attempted a "Panenka" penalty designed to fool the goalkeeper with a chip straight down the middle, but Chelsea keeper Edouard Mendy did not commit to his dive and was able to simply stand up and catch the gentle shot. Manchester City would have been crowned league champions with a win but Chelsea scored twice after the break. I would like to apologise to my teammates, staff and supporters for missing the penalty. It was a bad decision and I take full responsibility. — Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) May 8, 2021 × "I would like to apologize to my teammates, staff, and supporters for missing the penalty," City's all-time top scorer Aguero tweeted after the game. "It was a bad decision and I take full responsibility." City boss Pep Guardiola refused to criticize Aguero for his fluffed attempt and said it was wrong to argue the penalty had turned the game. The Etihad club, who has a 13-point lead at the top of the table, could still secure the title this weekend if second-placed Manchester United lose at Aston Villa later on Sunday.

Sergio Agüero apologizes for penalty miss after Chelsea defeat

In a major hit to the Indian football club ATK Mohun Bagan, two of their players – Prabir Das and SK Sahil have tested positive for the Covid 19. This improvement comes after the Mariners were tried at a private office in Kolkata before their takeoff to the Maldives for the league stage installations of AFC Cup 2021. As per reports, a third player from the group has likewise been tainted with the virus.

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ATK Mohun Bagan's Prabir Das &amp; SK Sahil have tested positive in the Covid tests that were conducted yesterday . 
 
The ATKMB team is scheduled to depart for the Maldives on 10th May . <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATKMB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATKMB</a> <a href="https://t.co/YPJmbWKV7B">pic.twitter.com/YPJmbWKV7B</a>
— Voice of Indian Football (@VoiceofIndianF1) <a href="https://twitter.com/VoiceofIndianF1/status/1391068193796464647?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Asian Football Confederation is required to proceed with the tournament in the island country, even as the Football Association of Maldives has communicated their reservations in facilitating the class because of the deteriorating Coronavirus circumstance in the country.&nbsp;

In the event that the matches go on as arranged, ATK Mohun Bagan would play without their best option goalkeeper Anirdam Bhattacharya who is relied upon to remain back in India as his mom has been tainted with Coronavirus. “My Mother is suffering from covid19 for the last 12 days. My worst nightmare came true when my mother tested positive for coronavirus and it’s a very difficult time for our family. Please pray for her a speedy recovery,” Arindam had tweeted.

The Mariners may likewise miss the overseas players including Roy Krishna, Carl McHugh, and David Williams in the Maldives.

ISL club Bengaluru FC showed up in the Maldives on Friday in front of their 2021 AFC Cup Playoff clash on May 11. The Sunil Chhetri-drove Bengaluru FC will confront Eagles FC on Tuesday.

In a major hit to the Indian football club ATK Mohun Bagan, two of their players – Prabir Das and SK Sahil have tested positive for the Covid 19. This improvement comes after the Mariners were tried at a private office in Kolkata before their takeoff to the Maldives for the league stage installations of AFC Cup 2021.

In a major hit to the Indian football club ATK Mohun Bagan, two of their players – Prabir Das and SK Sahil have tested positive for the Covid 19. This improvement comes after the Mariners were tried at a private office in Kolkata before their takeoff to the Maldives for the league stage installations of AFC Cup 2021. As per reports, a third player from the group has likewise been tainted with the virus. ATK Mohun Bagan's Prabir Das & SK Sahil have tested positive in the Covid tests that were conducted yesterday . The ATKMB team is scheduled to depart for the Maldives on 10th May . #IndianFootball #ATKMB pic.twitter.com/YPJmbWKV7B — Voice of Indian Football (@VoiceofIndianF1) May 8, 2021 × The Asian Football Confederation is required to proceed with the tournament in the island country, even as the Football Association of Maldives has communicated their reservations in facilitating the class because of the deteriorating Coronavirus circumstance in the country. In the event that the matches go on as arranged, ATK Mohun Bagan would play without their best option goalkeeper Anirdam Bhattacharya who is relied upon to remain back in India as his mom has been tainted with Coronavirus. “My Mother is suffering from covid19 for the last 12 days. My worst nightmare came true when my mother tested positive for coronavirus and it’s a very difficult time for our family. Please pray for her a speedy recovery,” Arindam had tweeted. The Mariners may likewise miss the overseas players including Roy Krishna, Carl McHugh, and David Williams in the Maldives. ISL club Bengaluru FC showed up in the Maldives on Friday in front of their 2021 AFC Cup Playoff clash on May 11. The Sunil Chhetri-drove Bengaluru FC will confront Eagles FC on Tuesday.

Prabir Das and SK Sahil from ATK Mohun Bagan test positive for COVID

The Asian Football Confederation on Sunday cancelled its AFC Cup matches in the Maldives after a breach of COVID-19 protocols by three Bengaluru FC players in the capital Male. The country’s sports minister had termed it “unacceptable behavior" while also calling for the BFC team to immediately leave the country. <o:p></o:p>

The AFC Cup (South) Group D matches, scheduled from May 14 to May 21 have been indefinitely postponed.<o:p></o:p>

Bengaluru FC landed in Male on Saturday ahead of their playoff match with Maldives’ Eagles FC, which was to be played on Tuesday. The winner of the match would have been the last entrant in Group D, consisting of teams like ATK Mohun Bagan, Maziya FC and Basundhara Kings.<o:p></o:p>

According to a report in PTI, local media reported that BFC players were spotted roaming on the streets of Male, which was not permitted due to the COVID-19 surge. Players were handed special permission to be in the Maldives despite the ban on tourists with a condition that the members had to be confined to their hotel at all times except for training and matches.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rajasthan-royals-pacer-chetan-sakariyas-father-passes-away-after-contracting-covid-19-383857" hreflang="en">Rajasthan Royals pacer Chetan Sakariya's father passes away after contracting COVID-19</a>

After the development was reported, Ahmed Mahloof, Maldives’ Minister of Youth, Sports &amp; Community Empowerment had tweeted that it was "unacceptable behaviour".<o:p></o:p>

In response, BFC owner Parth Jindal tweeted an apology for the "inexcusable behaviour" of three of his "foreign players/staff."

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On behalf of <a href="https://twitter.com/bengalurufc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bengalurufc</a> I am extremely sorry for the inexcusable behavior of three of our foreign players/staff while in Male - the strictest action will be taken against these players/staff. We have let <a href="https://twitter.com/AFCCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AFCCup</a> down and can only say that this will never happen again
— Parth Jindal (@ParthJindal11) <a href="https://twitter.com/ParthJindal11/status/1391302307078311938?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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BFC are expected to face disciplinary action from the AFC.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stalemate-between-atletico-and-barca-hands-advantage-to-real-madrid-383846" hreflang="en">Stalemate between Atletico and Barca hands advantage to Real Madrid</a>

<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, ATK Mohun Bagan, who would have played their group stage match on May 14, have also reportedly asked for a postponement after Prabir Das and SK Sahil tested positive for the dreaded virus ahead of their flight to Male on Monday.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

The Asian Football Confederation on Sunday cancelled its AFC Cup matches in the Maldives after a breach of COVID-19 protocols by three Bengaluru FC players in the capital Male.

The Asian Football Confederation on Sunday cancelled its AFC Cup matches in the Maldives after a breach of COVID-19 protocols by three Bengaluru FC players in the capital Male. The country’s sports minister had termed it “unacceptable behavior" while also calling for the BFC team to immediately leave the country. The AFC Cup (South) Group D matches, scheduled from May 14 to May 21 have been indefinitely postponed. Bengaluru FC landed in Male on Saturday ahead of their playoff match with Maldives’ Eagles FC, which was to be played on Tuesday. The winner of the match would have been the last entrant in Group D, consisting of teams like ATK Mohun Bagan, Maziya FC and Basundhara Kings. According to a report in PTI, local media reported that BFC players were spotted roaming on the streets of Male, which was not permitted due to the COVID-19 surge. Players were handed special permission to be in the Maldives despite the ban on tourists with a condition that the members had to be confined to their hotel at all times except for training and matches. ALSO READ: Rajasthan Royals pacer Chetan Sakariya's father passes away after contracting COVID-19 After the development was reported, Ahmed Mahloof, Maldives’ Minister of Youth, Sports & Community Empowerment had tweeted that it was "unacceptable behaviour". In response, BFC owner Parth Jindal tweeted an apology for the "inexcusable behaviour" of three of his "foreign players/staff." On behalf of @bengalurufc I am extremely sorry for the inexcusable behavior of three of our foreign players/staff while in Male - the strictest action will be taken against these players/staff. We have let @AFCCup down and can only say that this will never happen again — Parth Jindal (@ParthJindal11) May 9, 2021 × BFC are expected to face disciplinary action from the AFC. ALSO READ: Stalemate between Atletico and Barca hands advantage to Real Madrid Meanwhile, ATK Mohun Bagan, who would have played their group stage match on May 14, have also reportedly asked for a postponement after Prabir Das and SK Sahil tested positive for the dreaded virus ahead of their flight to Male on Monday.

AFC Cup matches in the Maldives postponed after Bengaluru FC players breach COVID-19 protocols

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid knew victory could fire them towards the La Liga title but Saturday's 0-0 draw at Camp Nou handed Real Madrid the chance to go top.

Four wins from their last four games will now be enough for Zinedine Zidane's side to retain their La Liga crown, with a crunch game at home to fourth-placed Sevilla up first on Sunday.

The first part of a blockbuster weekend in the Spanish title race pitched first against third but neither could take a decisive step forward, despite the best attempts of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, who faced each other for the first time since Suarez departed last summer.

A point each leaves Atletico three points clear of Real Madrid, who have a game in hand and also the superior head-to-head over both Atleti and Barcelona.

Barca remain two points off the top but their chances took the biggest hit, given they now need both Atletico and Real Madrid to slip up in the final stretch.

Anything can still happen because of what we've seen so far," said Gerard Pique. "If Madrid wins their four games they will be champions, but it is difficult for the big teams to be consistent. If we win all our three games, I think we'll have a chance."

Atletico will be disappointed too, given they spurned a number of chances in during a dominant first half, before Ronald Koeman's side recovered in the second.&nbsp;

Jan Oblak had to deny Messi after a vintage run forward from the Argentine, who then had a well-placed free-kick in the last minute, only for Atletico to watch the ball spin inches wide.&nbsp;

"We started better and they finished a little better," Oblak said. "Real Madrid has four games left but for sure they are going to be tought games. We have to keep going."&nbsp;

Diego Simeone said on Friday Suarez had been "vindicated" since being forced to leave Barcelona, his 19 goals making him top scorer for the team.&nbsp;

Koeman admitted it would be "strange" for everyone, including Messi, who sent a heartfelt open letter to his former team-mate, neighbour and best friend last year.&nbsp;

<h2>- Suarez 'always welcome' -</h2>

The pair shared a few words in the centre circle before kick-off after the Camp Nou stadium announcer had already beamed that Suarez "will always be welcome".

But, in truth, the Uruguayan was not at his ruthless best as a handful of openings went unconverted in a contest full of chances but that lacked precision when it mattered most.&nbsp;

Messi was repeatedly knocked over in the opening few minutes before Gerard Pique went through the back of Suarez, both teams scrapping for control.&nbsp;

Atletico slowly took charge, helped by the departure of Sergio Busquets, who was replaced by Ilaix Moriba after a clash of heads that meant he had to be taken to hospital for tests.&nbsp;

Without Busquets, Barcelona were rudderless for a while and the Atletico chances came thick and fast.&nbsp;

Marc-Andre ter Stegen had to palm away Marcos Llorente's shot and then stick out a foot to deny Suarez from the angle.&nbsp;

Suarez then tried to nod in the rebound after a winding run from Yannick Carrasco before claiming a penalty after feeling a flick of Ter Stegen's hand across his head.&nbsp;

Barcelona were rattled, the usually steady Ter Stegen booting one ball straight into the stands, only for Messi to give Atletico a reality check, his driving run past six chasers opening the space for a shot, but Oblak tipped it wide.&nbsp;

Felipe fired over from a well-worked Atleti short corner before half-time but Barca were better after the break, with both Ilaix and Pique going close shortly after the hour.&nbsp;

Both coaches made changes, hoping to inspire a winner. Ousmane Dembele was one of them and he should have grabbed it with six minutes left but headed over from six yards in perhaps the best chance of the game.&nbsp;

Messi could have won it at the end, standing over the ball with a free-kick placed centrally and 25 yards out. Atletico held their breath, the ball whistling just wide of Oblak's post.&nbsp;

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid knew victory could fire them towards the La Liga title but Saturday's 0-0 draw at Camp Nou handed Real Madrid the chance to go top.

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid knew victory could fire them towards the La Liga title but Saturday's 0-0 draw at Camp Nou handed Real Madrid the chance to go top. Four wins from their last four games will now be enough for Zinedine Zidane's side to retain their La Liga crown, with a crunch game at home to fourth-placed Sevilla up first on Sunday. The first part of a blockbuster weekend in the Spanish title race pitched first against third but neither could take a decisive step forward, despite the best attempts of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, who faced each other for the first time since Suarez departed last summer. A point each leaves Atletico three points clear of Real Madrid, who have a game in hand and also the superior head-to-head over both Atleti and Barcelona. Barca remain two points off the top but their chances took the biggest hit, given they now need both Atletico and Real Madrid to slip up in the final stretch. Anything can still happen because of what we've seen so far," said Gerard Pique. "If Madrid wins their four games they will be champions, but it is difficult for the big teams to be consistent. If we win all our three games, I think we'll have a chance." Atletico will be disappointed too, given they spurned a number of chances in during a dominant first half, before Ronald Koeman's side recovered in the second. Jan Oblak had to deny Messi after a vintage run forward from the Argentine, who then had a well-placed free-kick in the last minute, only for Atletico to watch the ball spin inches wide. "We started better and they finished a little better," Oblak said. "Real Madrid has four games left but for sure they are going to be tought games. We have to keep going." Diego Simeone said on Friday Suarez had been "vindicated" since being forced to leave Barcelona, his 19 goals making him top scorer for the team. Koeman admitted it would be "strange" for everyone, including Messi, who sent a heartfelt open letter to his former team-mate, neighbour and best friend last year. - Suarez 'always welcome' - The pair shared a few words in the centre circle before kick-off after the Camp Nou stadium announcer had already beamed that Suarez "will always be welcome". But, in truth, the Uruguayan was not at his ruthless best as a handful of openings went unconverted in a contest full of chances but that lacked precision when it mattered most. Messi was repeatedly knocked over in the opening few minutes before Gerard Pique went through the back of Suarez, both teams scrapping for control. Atletico slowly took charge, helped by the departure of Sergio Busquets, who was replaced by Ilaix Moriba after a clash of heads that meant he had to be taken to hospital for tests. Without Busquets, Barcelona were rudderless for a while and the Atletico chances came thick and fast. Marc-Andre ter Stegen had to palm away Marcos Llorente's shot and then stick out a foot to deny Suarez from the angle. Suarez then tried to nod in the rebound after a winding run from Yannick Carrasco before claiming a penalty after feeling a flick of Ter Stegen's hand across his head. Barcelona were rattled, the usually steady Ter Stegen booting one ball straight into the stands, only for Messi to give Atletico a reality check, his driving run past six chasers opening the space for a shot, but Oblak tipped it wide. Felipe fired over from a well-worked Atleti short corner before half-time but Barca were better after the break, with both Ilaix and Pique going close shortly after the hour. Both coaches made changes, hoping to inspire a winner. Ousmane Dembele was one of them and he should have grabbed it with six minutes left but headed over from six yards in perhaps the best chance of the game. Messi could have won it at the end, standing over the ball with a free-kick placed centrally and 25 yards out. Atletico held their breath, the ball whistling just wide of Oblak's post.

Stalemate between Atletico and Barca hands advantage to Real Madrid

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