Delhi Capitals (DC) are set to lock horns against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Tuesday as the action continues in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. In what will be the replay of last year’s final, MI and DC head into the much-awaited clash with two wins of their three matches played so far and will be looking to bag their third win of the T20 tournament.<o:p></o:p>

DC would be wary of their record against Mumbai Indians. In IPL 2020, it was all Mumbai Indians when the two sides met. With a head-to-head record of 16-12 favouring Mumbai Indians, the defending champions head into the match as hot favourites. MI had defeated DC four times in IPL 2020 including the final. <o:p></o:p>

While Delhi come into the clash after a win against Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians thumped Delhi Capitals in another tactical masterclass in Chepauk. Both DC and MI are in good form and have arguably the two strongest squads in IPL 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-harbhajan-sreesanth-slap-gate-to-ms-dhonis-anger-top-ipl-controversies-through-the-years-378405" hreflang="en">From Harbhajan-Sreesanth slap gate to MS Dhoni's anger: Top IPL controversies through the years</a>

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<h2>IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians, Match Details<o:p></o:p></h2>

Date: 20th April 2021 (Tuesday).<o:p></o:p>

Time: 7:30 PM IST.<o:p></o:p>

Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians, IPL 2021: Chennai Weather Forecast<o:p></o:p></h2>

Chennai continues to be warm and humid with an average temperature of 29 degrees Celcius. While there are slight chances of rain in the evening, the match is expected to be played without any interruptions.

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><o:p>Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians, IPL 2021: MA Chidambaram pitch report</o:p></h2>

The pitch at the MA Chidambaram Stadium has been sticky and sluggish so far and have proved to be a challenge for batters. Toss could once again play a pivotal role and spinners are expected to dominate the match. The pitch is expected to slower down as the match progresses and anything above 170 could be a winning total.<o:p></o:p>

Delhi Capitals (DC) are set to lock horns against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Tuesday as the action continues in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Delhi Capitals (DC) are set to lock horns against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Tuesday as the action continues in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. In what will be the replay of last year’s final, MI and DC head into the much-awaited clash with two wins of their three matches played so far and will be looking to bag their third win of the T20 tournament. DC would be wary of their record against Mumbai Indians. In IPL 2020, it was all Mumbai Indians when the two sides met. With a head-to-head record of 16-12 favouring Mumbai Indians, the defending champions head into the match as hot favourites. MI had defeated DC four times in IPL 2020 including the final. While Delhi come into the clash after a win against Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians thumped Delhi Capitals in another tactical masterclass in Chepauk. Both DC and MI are in good form and have arguably the two strongest squads in IPL 2021. ALSO READ: From Harbhajan-Sreesanth slap gate to MS Dhoni's anger: Top IPL controversies through the years × IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians, Match Details Date: 20th April 2021 (Tuesday). Time: 7:30 PM IST. Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians, IPL 2021: Chennai Weather Forecast Chennai continues to be warm and humid with an average temperature of 29 degrees Celcius. While there are slight chances of rain in the evening, the match is expected to be played without any interruptions. Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians, IPL 2021: MA Chidambaram pitch report The pitch at the MA Chidambaram Stadium has been sticky and sluggish so far and have proved to be a challenge for batters. Toss could once again play a pivotal role and spinners are expected to dominate the match. The pitch is expected to slower down as the match progresses and anything above 170 could be a winning total.

DC vs MI, IPL 2021: Head-to-head stats, MA Chidambaram Stadium pitch report, Chennai weather forecast - All you need to know

Liverpool midfielder James Milner said on Monday he hopes a European Super League (ESL) does not happen despite his club being one of 12 teams to sign up to a breakaway.

The English champions have teamed up with Premier League rivals Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal for the proposed 20-team competition.

Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan are the other founder members of the plan.

However, speaking after Liverpool's 1-1 draw at Leeds in the Premier League, Milner joined governments, governing bodies, fans and other players to criticise the proposals.

"There is a lot of questions. I can only say my personal opinion, I don't like it and hopefully it doesn't happen," said Milner, who was Liverpool skipper for the fixture in the absence of the injured Jordan Henderson.

Fans from both clubs protested outside Elland Road before kick-off with the plans fiercely criticised by supporters' groups as a cynical attempt by club owners to make more money.

"For the same reasons everyone else has been talking about it," added Milner on why he was against the plans.

"It's been difficult, we've had a game we're trying to prepare for, but I can only imagine what has been said and agree with most of it.

"Players obviously have no say, so the welcome we got to the ground tonight felt a bit unjust. We are here to play football and have no control over it."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he was also not consulted by the club's American owners and criticised plans for the competition's proposed format.

Under the proposals, 15 founder members would compete in tournament every year without having to qualify.

Liverpool are in danger of failing to qualify for next season's Champions League as they sit sixth in the Premier League, behind Leicester and West Ham, two clubs excluded from the plans.

"One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness, I get that," Klopp told Sky Sports.

"I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League next year. I don't want them to, because I want us to be there, but I like that they have the chance."

Klopp was previously quoted as saying "I hope this Super League will never happen" and questioned whether fans' interest would be maintained by watching Liverpool face the likes of Real Madrid every year.

In 2019, the German said: "For me, the Champions League is the Super League, in which you do not always end up playing against the same teams.

"Why should we create a system where Liverpool faces Real Madrid for 10 straight years? Who wants to see that every year?"

Klopp admitted his preparation for Monday's game had been disturbed by the news breaking late on Sunday.

But he said he would not resign over the plans.

"My opinion didn't change," he said when asked about his previous comments on a Super League.

"I am here as a football coach and a manager. I will do that as long as people let me do that.

"I feel responsible for the team, for the club and for the relationship we have with our fans. It's a very tough time I'm sure, but I will try to help to sort it somehow."

Liverpool could face sanctions from the Premier League for being involved in the breakaway, while players face the possibility of being banned from representing their national teams.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin described the breakaway as a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed".

Liverpool midfielder James Milner said on Monday he hopes a European Super League (ESL) does not happen despite his club being one of 12 teams to sign up to a breakaway.

Liverpool midfielder James Milner said on Monday he hopes a European Super League (ESL) does not happen despite his club being one of 12 teams to sign up to a breakaway. The English champions have teamed up with Premier League rivals Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal for the proposed 20-team competition. Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan are the other founder members of the plan. However, speaking after Liverpool's 1-1 draw at Leeds in the Premier League, Milner joined governments, governing bodies, fans and other players to criticise the proposals. "There is a lot of questions. I can only say my personal opinion, I don't like it and hopefully it doesn't happen," said Milner, who was Liverpool skipper for the fixture in the absence of the injured Jordan Henderson. Fans from both clubs protested outside Elland Road before kick-off with the plans fiercely criticised by supporters' groups as a cynical attempt by club owners to make more money. "For the same reasons everyone else has been talking about it," added Milner on why he was against the plans. "It's been difficult, we've had a game we're trying to prepare for, but I can only imagine what has been said and agree with most of it. "Players obviously have no say, so the welcome we got to the ground tonight felt a bit unjust. We are here to play football and have no control over it." Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he was also not consulted by the club's American owners and criticised plans for the competition's proposed format. Under the proposals, 15 founder members would compete in tournament every year without having to qualify. Liverpool are in danger of failing to qualify for next season's Champions League as they sit sixth in the Premier League, behind Leicester and West Ham, two clubs excluded from the plans. "One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness, I get that," Klopp told Sky Sports. "I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League next year. I don't want them to, because I want us to be there, but I like that they have the chance." Klopp was previously quoted as saying "I hope this Super League will never happen" and questioned whether fans' interest would be maintained by watching Liverpool face the likes of Real Madrid every year. In 2019, the German said: "For me, the Champions League is the Super League, in which you do not always end up playing against the same teams. "Why should we create a system where Liverpool faces Real Madrid for 10 straight years? Who wants to see that every year?" Klopp admitted his preparation for Monday's game had been disturbed by the news breaking late on Sunday. But he said he would not resign over the plans. "My opinion didn't change," he said when asked about his previous comments on a Super League. "I am here as a football coach and a manager. I will do that as long as people let me do that. "I feel responsible for the team, for the club and for the relationship we have with our fans. It's a very tough time I'm sure, but I will try to help to sort it somehow." Liverpool could face sanctions from the Premier League for being involved in the breakaway, while players face the possibility of being banned from representing their national teams. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin described the breakaway as a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed".

'Hopefully it doesn't happen' - Liverpool captain Milner against Super League

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will host a meeting of football chiefs and fans' representatives on Tuesday as they consider what action to take over the proposed European Super League.

It comes as FIFA president Gianni Infantino said the world governing body "disapproves" of the widely condemned breakaway competition, which has triggered threats of legal action and punitive measures.

Twelve powerful clubs -- six from England, and three each from Spain and Italy -- have signed up for the Super League, which offers guaranteed spots for its founding members and billions of dollars in payments.

The English clubs, the Premier League's so-called 'Big Six', are Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham.

It has prompted a furious reaction from fans and officials, with UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin saying it was motivated by "greediness, selfishness and narcissism", and Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp saying its closed nature was "not right".

It is understood the Premier League has called its other 14 clubs to an emergency shareholders' meeting on Tuesday, to which the Big Six have not been invited.

Johnson told fans he would do everything he can to give the European Super League a "straight red" card.

Writing in the Sun newspaper, he said he was "horrified" at the implications for clubs up and down the country, which had a "unique place" at the heart of their communities.

In a direct message to fans, he said: "It is your game -- and you can rest assured that I'm going to do everything I can to give this ludicrous plan a straight red."

Protests took place outside Manchester United's Old Trafford ground and Liverpool and Leeds fans gathered outside Elland Road before their Premier League match on Monday to voice their opposition.

<h2>- Threat to grassroots -</h2>

Prince William, the English FA's president and grandson to Queen Elizabeth II, also shared his concerns over the proposed new competition.

"Now, more than ever, we must protect the entire football community -- from the top level to the grassroots -- and the values of competition and fairness at its core," he tweeted.

The English clubs joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as well as Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the Super League.

Five more clubs will qualify annually for the 20-team, midweek competition, in which two groups of 10 will precede two-legged quarter- and semi-finals and a one-off final. The competition is due for launch "as soon as is practicable".

It constitutes a serious threat to UEFA, who together with the English, Spanish and Italian football authorities said the Super League clubs could be banned from domestic and European competition.

The breakaway announcement came just hours before UEFA announced a new, 36-team format for the Champions League, which had been conceived to placate the continent's biggest clubs.

Britain's culture and sports secretary Oliver Dowden has raised the possibility of invoking competition laws to block the Super League.

Competitions watchdog the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) told AFP it would study the details of the plan.

"The proposals for a European football super league have attracted high levels of public interest," a spokesman said.

"It is a complex area and we will be carefully considering any competition concerns relating to these proposals.”

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will host a meeting of football chiefs and fans' representatives on Tuesday as they consider what action to take over the proposed European Super League.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will host a meeting of football chiefs and fans' representatives on Tuesday as they consider what action to take over the proposed European Super League. It comes as FIFA president Gianni Infantino said the world governing body "disapproves" of the widely condemned breakaway competition, which has triggered threats of legal action and punitive measures. Twelve powerful clubs -- six from England, and three each from Spain and Italy -- have signed up for the Super League, which offers guaranteed spots for its founding members and billions of dollars in payments. The English clubs, the Premier League's so-called 'Big Six', are Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham. It has prompted a furious reaction from fans and officials, with UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin saying it was motivated by "greediness, selfishness and narcissism", and Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp saying its closed nature was "not right". It is understood the Premier League has called its other 14 clubs to an emergency shareholders' meeting on Tuesday, to which the Big Six have not been invited. Johnson told fans he would do everything he can to give the European Super League a "straight red" card. Writing in the Sun newspaper, he said he was "horrified" at the implications for clubs up and down the country, which had a "unique place" at the heart of their communities. In a direct message to fans, he said: "It is your game -- and you can rest assured that I'm going to do everything I can to give this ludicrous plan a straight red." Protests took place outside Manchester United's Old Trafford ground and Liverpool and Leeds fans gathered outside Elland Road before their Premier League match on Monday to voice their opposition. - Threat to grassroots - Prince William, the English FA's president and grandson to Queen Elizabeth II, also shared his concerns over the proposed new competition. "Now, more than ever, we must protect the entire football community -- from the top level to the grassroots -- and the values of competition and fairness at its core," he tweeted. The English clubs joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as well as Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the Super League. Five more clubs will qualify annually for the 20-team, midweek competition, in which two groups of 10 will precede two-legged quarter- and semi-finals and a one-off final. The competition is due for launch "as soon as is practicable". It constitutes a serious threat to UEFA, who together with the English, Spanish and Italian football authorities said the Super League clubs could be banned from domestic and European competition. The breakaway announcement came just hours before UEFA announced a new, 36-team format for the Champions League, which had been conceived to placate the continent's biggest clubs. Britain's culture and sports secretary Oliver Dowden has raised the possibility of invoking competition laws to block the Super League. Competitions watchdog the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) told AFP it would study the details of the plan. "The proposals for a European football super league have attracted high levels of public interest," a spokesman said. "It is a complex area and we will be carefully considering any competition concerns relating to these proposals.”

British PM vows to show Super League 'red card' ahead of meeting with football chiefs

Plans for a Super League announced by 12 of European football's most powerful clubs plunged the game into an unprecedented crisis on Monday as the UK government threatened to invoke competition law to block a breakaway.

Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as well as Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the competition.

They plan to leave the UEFA-sanctioned Champions League and start their new tournament "as soon as possible", with plans for three more founding members to join and five other clubs to be invited annually.

The competition threatens to completely upturn the world's biggest sport and leaves the prestigious Champions League -- itself the fruit of the last major shake-up in European football in 1992 -- facing an uncertain future.

Britain's culture secretary Oliver Dowden said the English clubs could find themselves subject to a formal review under British anti-trust law, which prevents the formation of monopolies or corporate cartels.&nbsp;

"We will put everything on the table to prevent this from happening," the minister said,&nbsp;vowing a "very robust response".

The breakaway announcement came just hours before UEFA announced a new format for the Champions League, which had been conceived to placate the continent's biggest clubs.

<h2>- Champions League reform -</h2>

European football's governing body is pressing ahead with the new format from 2024 onwards, which will see the number of clubs involved increase from 32 to 36 with each team guaranteed 10 games.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin lashed out at the breakaway plan, calling it a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed".

The Slovenian added that European member associations were "all united against this nonsensical project" and said players involved would not be allowed to play for national teams, effectively banning them from taking part in European Championships and World Cups.

However, organisers of the Super League said they would file a motion "before the relevant courts" to stop players being banned and "ensure the seamless establishment and operation" of the competition, according to a letter seen by AFP, addressed to Ceferin and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino.

The breakaway league is being backed by US investment bank JPMorgan, which confirmed to AFP that it was "financing the deal".

The founding clubs will share 3.5 billion euros ($4 billion, £3 billion) for infrastructure investment and to offset pandemic costs, and are expected to receive a further 10 billion euros in "solidarity payments" over the life of the initial commitment -- much more than in the current Champions League.

The 15 eventual founders will be guaranteed to play each year in a competition intended to take place in midweek, allowing clubs in theory to continue participating in domestic leagues.

"One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness," said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who confirmed he was not consulted on the proposals.

<h2>- Bayern not in favour -</h2>

The absence of French and German teams from the founding members is notable, despite Bayern Munich and Qatar-owned Paris Saint-Germain reaching last season's Champions League final.

Bayern have distanced themselves from the project, with chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge saying: "We are convinced that the current structure in football guarantees a reliable foundation."

However, a source close to the 12 founding clubs told AFP "at least two French clubs" are set to be involved every year.

The reaction from fans and pundits across Europe has been furious.

"It's the death of football... Football is based on the concept of competitive balance, sporting competition and qualifying on merit," Tim Payton, head of the Arsenal Supporters Trust, told AFP.

Supporters from both Leeds and Liverpool protested outside Elland Road ahead of Monday's Premier League match.

Players have also&nbsp;voiced their disapproval.

"I can only say my personal opinion, I don't like it and hopefully it doesn't happen," said James Milner, who captained Liverpool on Monday.

<h2>- FIFA's 'disapproval' -</h2>

Under the plan, two groups of 10 will play each other home and away, with the top three qualifying for the quarter-finals. The fourth and fifth-placed teams would play off for the two remaining spots.

Then the competition would adopt the same two-leg knockout format used in the Champions League before a single-leg final in May.

World governing body FIFA expressed its "disapproval" and called on all parties "to engage in calm, constructive and balanced dialogue".

The Premier League, the richest in Europe, issued a furious statement to say "the concept of a European Super League would destroy" the dream that any team could "climb to the top and play against the best".

The powerful European Club Association said it "strongly opposes" the plans after its own chairman, Juventus supremo Andrea Agnelli, stepped down.

Having been heavily involved in negotiations with UEFA over a new Champions League format, Agnelli came in for stinging criticism from Ceferin.

"I've never seen a person that would lie so many times, so persistently as he did. It's unbelievable," Ceferin said.

But Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez, who was announced as the first Super League president, said the breakaway reflected the big clubs' wishes.

"Football is the only global sport in the world with more than four billion fans and our responsibility as big clubs is to respond to their desires," he said.

Plans for a Super League announced by 12 of European football's most powerful clubs plunged the game into an unprecedented crisis on Monday as the UK government threatened to invoke competition law to block a breakaway.

Plans for a Super League announced by 12 of European football's most powerful clubs plunged the game into an unprecedented crisis on Monday as the UK government threatened to invoke competition law to block a breakaway. Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as well as Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the competition. They plan to leave the UEFA-sanctioned Champions League and start their new tournament "as soon as possible", with plans for three more founding members to join and five other clubs to be invited annually. The competition threatens to completely upturn the world's biggest sport and leaves the prestigious Champions League -- itself the fruit of the last major shake-up in European football in 1992 -- facing an uncertain future. Britain's culture secretary Oliver Dowden said the English clubs could find themselves subject to a formal review under British anti-trust law, which prevents the formation of monopolies or corporate cartels. "We will put everything on the table to prevent this from happening," the minister said, vowing a "very robust response". The breakaway announcement came just hours before UEFA announced a new format for the Champions League, which had been conceived to placate the continent's biggest clubs. - Champions League reform - European football's governing body is pressing ahead with the new format from 2024 onwards, which will see the number of clubs involved increase from 32 to 36 with each team guaranteed 10 games. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin lashed out at the breakaway plan, calling it a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed". The Slovenian added that European member associations were "all united against this nonsensical project" and said players involved would not be allowed to play for national teams, effectively banning them from taking part in European Championships and World Cups. However, organisers of the Super League said they would file a motion "before the relevant courts" to stop players being banned and "ensure the seamless establishment and operation" of the competition, according to a letter seen by AFP, addressed to Ceferin and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino. The breakaway league is being backed by US investment bank JPMorgan, which confirmed to AFP that it was "financing the deal". The founding clubs will share 3.5 billion euros ($4 billion, £3 billion) for infrastructure investment and to offset pandemic costs, and are expected to receive a further 10 billion euros in "solidarity payments" over the life of the initial commitment -- much more than in the current Champions League. The 15 eventual founders will be guaranteed to play each year in a competition intended to take place in midweek, allowing clubs in theory to continue participating in domestic leagues. "One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness," said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who confirmed he was not consulted on the proposals. - Bayern not in favour - The absence of French and German teams from the founding members is notable, despite Bayern Munich and Qatar-owned Paris Saint-Germain reaching last season's Champions League final. Bayern have distanced themselves from the project, with chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge saying: "We are convinced that the current structure in football guarantees a reliable foundation." However, a source close to the 12 founding clubs told AFP "at least two French clubs" are set to be involved every year. The reaction from fans and pundits across Europe has been furious. "It's the death of football... Football is based on the concept of competitive balance, sporting competition and qualifying on merit," Tim Payton, head of the Arsenal Supporters Trust, told AFP. Supporters from both Leeds and Liverpool protested outside Elland Road ahead of Monday's Premier League match. Players have also voiced their disapproval. "I can only say my personal opinion, I don't like it and hopefully it doesn't happen," said James Milner, who captained Liverpool on Monday. - FIFA's 'disapproval' - Under the plan, two groups of 10 will play each other home and away, with the top three qualifying for the quarter-finals. The fourth and fifth-placed teams would play off for the two remaining spots. Then the competition would adopt the same two-leg knockout format used in the Champions League before a single-leg final in May. World governing body FIFA expressed its "disapproval" and called on all parties "to engage in calm, constructive and balanced dialogue". The Premier League, the richest in Europe, issued a furious statement to say "the concept of a European Super League would destroy" the dream that any team could "climb to the top and play against the best". The powerful European Club Association said it "strongly opposes" the plans after its own chairman, Juventus supremo Andrea Agnelli, stepped down. Having been heavily involved in negotiations with UEFA over a new Champions League format, Agnelli came in for stinging criticism from Ceferin. "I've never seen a person that would lie so many times, so persistently as he did. It's unbelievable," Ceferin said. But Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez, who was announced as the first Super League president, said the breakaway reflected the big clubs' wishes. "Football is the only global sport in the world with more than four billion fans and our responsibility as big clubs is to respond to their desires," he said.

'Self-serving' Super League opens unprecedented conflict in European football

Liverpool were held to a 1-1 draw away to Leeds United on Monday in a match overshadowed by the furious response to the Merseysiders' planned involvement in a breakaway European Super League (ESL).

A draw left sixth-placed Liverpool two points adrift of fourth-placed West Ham in the Premier League.

The Reds opened the scoring before the interval through Sadio Mane only for Diego Llorente to equalise with his first Leeds goal, a header from a corner, three minutes from time.

The top four in the Premier League come the end of the season are usually the four English clubs guaranteed a place in next term's UEFA Champions League.

But even if six-times European champions Liverpool finish in the top four, they may well be banned from the tournament given they are on a collision course with UEFA, the continent's football governing body, after emerging as one of 12 teams who have established plans to form the ESL.

Under the proposals, 15 founder members would compete in the 20-team tournament every year without having to qualify.

Supporters from both Leeds and Liverpool protested outside Elland Road prior to kick-off, while a banner in the stand said: "Earn it on the pitch. Football is for the fans."

Leeds players also wore T-shirts before the game carrying similar messages, while a plane flew overhead trailing the message "#SayNoToSuperLeague".

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who had previously spoken out against the creation of a Super League, struggled to justify the his club's participation in the proposed new competition during a pre-match interview with Sky Sports.

"One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness, I get that," he said.

Significantly, no clubs from Klopp's native Germany are involved, with European giants Bayern Munich making clear Monday they were happy with football's "current structure".

Klopp appeared to have more in common with Bayern than his own employers when he added: "I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League next year. I don't want them to, because I want us to be there, but I like that they have the chance."

Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid and Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the competition.

Their plans sparked an angry reaction from governments, governing bodies, players and fans alike.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin slammed the plan, calling it a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed".

Meanwhile the UK government's culture secretary, Oliver Dowden, said the English clubs involved could find themselves subject to a formal review under British anti-trust law, which prevents the formation of monopolies or corporate cartels.&nbsp;

"We will put everything on the table to prevent this from happening," Dowden said,&nbsp;promising a "very robust response".

At Elland Road, Klopp recalled Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota, with star striker Mohamed Salah on the bench.

Jota was involved as Liverpool broke the deadlock in the 31st minute, picking out the run of Trent Alexander-Arnold before the full-back volleyed a first-time ball across the edge of the box for Mane to ease into Leeds' net.

Only a superb block from Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson denied Patrick Bamford but Leeds had their equaliser when Llorente headed in Jack Harrison's in-swinging corner in the 87th minute.&nbsp;

Liverpool were held to a 1-1 draw away to Leeds United on Monday in a match overshadowed by the furious response to the Merseysiders' planned involvement in a breakaway European Super League (ESL).

Liverpool were held to a 1-1 draw away to Leeds United on Monday in a match overshadowed by the furious response to the Merseysiders' planned involvement in a breakaway European Super League (ESL). A draw left sixth-placed Liverpool two points adrift of fourth-placed West Ham in the Premier League. The Reds opened the scoring before the interval through Sadio Mane only for Diego Llorente to equalise with his first Leeds goal, a header from a corner, three minutes from time. The top four in the Premier League come the end of the season are usually the four English clubs guaranteed a place in next term's UEFA Champions League. But even if six-times European champions Liverpool finish in the top four, they may well be banned from the tournament given they are on a collision course with UEFA, the continent's football governing body, after emerging as one of 12 teams who have established plans to form the ESL. Under the proposals, 15 founder members would compete in the 20-team tournament every year without having to qualify. Supporters from both Leeds and Liverpool protested outside Elland Road prior to kick-off, while a banner in the stand said: "Earn it on the pitch. Football is for the fans." Leeds players also wore T-shirts before the game carrying similar messages, while a plane flew overhead trailing the message "#SayNoToSuperLeague". Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who had previously spoken out against the creation of a Super League, struggled to justify the his club's participation in the proposed new competition during a pre-match interview with Sky Sports. "One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness, I get that," he said. Significantly, no clubs from Klopp's native Germany are involved, with European giants Bayern Munich making clear Monday they were happy with football's "current structure". Klopp appeared to have more in common with Bayern than his own employers when he added: "I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League next year. I don't want them to, because I want us to be there, but I like that they have the chance." Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid and Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the competition. Their plans sparked an angry reaction from governments, governing bodies, players and fans alike. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin slammed the plan, calling it a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed". Meanwhile the UK government's culture secretary, Oliver Dowden, said the English clubs involved could find themselves subject to a formal review under British anti-trust law, which prevents the formation of monopolies or corporate cartels. "We will put everything on the table to prevent this from happening," Dowden said, promising a "very robust response". At Elland Road, Klopp recalled Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota, with star striker Mohamed Salah on the bench. Jota was involved as Liverpool broke the deadlock in the 31st minute, picking out the run of Trent Alexander-Arnold before the full-back volleyed a first-time ball across the edge of the box for Mane to ease into Leeds' net. Only a superb block from Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson denied Patrick Bamford but Leeds had their equaliser when Llorente headed in Jack Harrison's in-swinging corner in the 87th minute.

Liverpool and Leeds share spoils amid Super League protests

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said on Tuesday that no club will be thrown out of the Champions League for joining a proposed European Super League (ESL).&nbsp;

On Monday, six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid and Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the planned competition.&nbsp;

They have decided to break away from the UEFA-sanctioned Champions League and start their new competition "as soon as possible", with plans for three more founding members to join and for five other clubs to be invited annually.&nbsp;

Perez claimed Paris Saint-Germain have not been invited.&nbsp;

UEFA said sides in the tournament will be unable to compete in their future competitions, with Perez' Madrid as well as City through to this year's Champions League last four.&nbsp;

"They are the threats of someone who confuses monopoly with property," Perez, who has been named ESL president, said on television programme El Chiringuito.&nbsp;

"Madrid will not be kicked out of the Champions League, definitely not. Nor City, nor anyone else."&nbsp;

He added: "It's not going to happen. I don't want to get into the legal reasons but it's not going to happen. It's impossible."&nbsp;

European football's governing body also said players could be stopped from featuring for their countries too.&nbsp;

"Any player can be totally calm because that is not going to happen," 74-year-old Perez said. "UEFA is a monopoly and it also has to be transparent. UEFA does not have a good image in its history. It has to be open to dialogue and not threatening," he added.&nbsp;

Earlier Perez claimed the move had been made to save the sport.&nbsp;

"Football has to keep changing and adapting to the times. Football is losing interest. Something must be done," Perez said. "Football is the only sport that is global. Television has to change to adapt to the times. We have to think about why 16-24 year-olds are no longer interested in football.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"There are poor quality matches and there are other platforms for entertainment. Football has to change.&nbsp;

"A group of clubs from some European countries want to do something to make this sport more attractive worldwide," Perez added.&nbsp;

He said the coronavirus pandemic had accelerated the need for change and clubs cannot afford to wait for UEFA's proposed Champions League reforms.&nbsp;

"The new Champions League is supposed to start in 2024," said Perez. "In 2024, all the clubs will be dead."&nbsp;

Perez claimed the new league would also help smaller clubs. "They have said it is a league for the rich and it's not true. It's a league to save football," he said.&nbsp;

"The money goes to everyone, it is a pyramid. If those above have money, it trickles down.&nbsp;

"There are 15 teams that generate value and five will enter on sporting merit. It is not closed. It is open. We have never thought of a closed league."

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said on Tuesday that no club will be thrown out of the Champions League for joining a proposed European Super League (ESL).

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said on Tuesday that no club will be thrown out of the Champions League for joining a proposed European Super League (ESL). On Monday, six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid and Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the planned competition. They have decided to break away from the UEFA-sanctioned Champions League and start their new competition "as soon as possible", with plans for three more founding members to join and for five other clubs to be invited annually. Perez claimed Paris Saint-Germain have not been invited. UEFA said sides in the tournament will be unable to compete in their future competitions, with Perez' Madrid as well as City through to this year's Champions League last four. "They are the threats of someone who confuses monopoly with property," Perez, who has been named ESL president, said on television programme El Chiringuito. "Madrid will not be kicked out of the Champions League, definitely not. Nor City, nor anyone else." He added: "It's not going to happen. I don't want to get into the legal reasons but it's not going to happen. It's impossible." European football's governing body also said players could be stopped from featuring for their countries too. "Any player can be totally calm because that is not going to happen," 74-year-old Perez said. "UEFA is a monopoly and it also has to be transparent. UEFA does not have a good image in its history. It has to be open to dialogue and not threatening," he added. Earlier Perez claimed the move had been made to save the sport. "Football has to keep changing and adapting to the times. Football is losing interest. Something must be done," Perez said. "Football is the only sport that is global. Television has to change to adapt to the times. We have to think about why 16-24 year-olds are no longer interested in football. "There are poor quality matches and there are other platforms for entertainment. Football has to change. "A group of clubs from some European countries want to do something to make this sport more attractive worldwide," Perez added. He said the coronavirus pandemic had accelerated the need for change and clubs cannot afford to wait for UEFA's proposed Champions League reforms. "The new Champions League is supposed to start in 2024," said Perez. "In 2024, all the clubs will be dead." Perez claimed the new league would also help smaller clubs. "They have said it is a league for the rich and it's not true. It's a league to save football," he said. "The money goes to everyone, it is a pyramid. If those above have money, it trickles down. "There are 15 teams that generate value and five will enter on sporting merit. It is not closed. It is open. We have never thought of a closed league."

'Madrid will not be kicked out of Champions League': ESL chief Perez

The European Commission vice-president for promoting the European way of life conceded Tuesday that Brussels cannot act against plans for a new football Super League, despite condemning it forcefully.

Asked in an interview with Italy's Il Messaggero newspaper what the Commission might do to block the project, Margaritis Schinas said: "Look, this is not the responsibility of the Commission.

"Europe has for years recognised the right of (football) federations and UEFA to decide independently. It is they who will have to find solutions to this problem."

Schinas had on Monday joined a chorus of condemnation of plans by 12 of Europe's most powerful clubs to form a breakaway league.

"We must defend a values-driven European model of sport based on diversity and inclusion," he said on Twitter.

"There is no scope for reserving it for the few rich and powerful clubs who want to sever links with everything associations stand for: national leagues, promotion and relegation and support to grassroots amateur football.

"Universality, inclusion and diversity are key elements of European sport and of our European way of life."

The European Commission vice-president for promoting the European way of life conceded Tuesday that Brussels cannot act against plans for a new football Super League, despite condemning it forcefully.

The European Commission vice-president for promoting the European way of life conceded Tuesday that Brussels cannot act against plans for a new football Super League, despite condemning it forcefully. Asked in an interview with Italy's Il Messaggero newspaper what the Commission might do to block the project, Margaritis Schinas said: "Look, this is not the responsibility of the Commission. "Europe has for years recognised the right of (football) federations and UEFA to decide independently. It is they who will have to find solutions to this problem." Schinas had on Monday joined a chorus of condemnation of plans by 12 of Europe's most powerful clubs to form a breakaway league. "We must defend a values-driven European model of sport based on diversity and inclusion," he said on Twitter. "There is no scope for reserving it for the few rich and powerful clubs who want to sever links with everything associations stand for: national leagues, promotion and relegation and support to grassroots amateur football. "Universality, inclusion and diversity are key elements of European sport and of our European way of life."

Super League 'not the EU's responsibility': official

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Tuesday there is "no doubt whatsoever" that football's world governing body "disapproves" of the proposed European Super League (ESL) and that clubs involved could face "consequences".

Twelve major clubs launched plans Monday for a new breakaway league which would drastically change the landscape of the world's most popular sport.

"At FIFA we can only and strongly disapprove the creation of the Super League, of a Super League who is a closed shop, a breakaway from the current institutions, from the leagues, from the associations, from UEFA, and from FIFA," Infantino told a UEFA congress in Switzerland.

"There is no doubt whatsoever of FIFA's disapproval for this."

Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are the six English clubs involved, together with Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid from Spain and Italian trio Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan.

UEFA has said the teams would be banned from domestic and other European competitions, including the Champions League.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, the head of the new ESL, has insisted that would be "impossible", but Infantino threatened action as FIFA took a stronger stance than it did with its initial statement when the news first broke.

"It is our task to protect the European sport model, so if some elect to go their own way then they must live with the consequences of their choices," said Infantino.

"They are responsible for their choices.

"Either you're in or you're out. You can't be half in and half out. Think of it, this has to be absolutely, absolutely clear."

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Tuesday there is "no doubt whatsoever" that football's world governing body "disapproves" of the proposed European Super League (ESL) and that clubs involved could face "consequences".

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Tuesday there is "no doubt whatsoever" that football's world governing body "disapproves" of the proposed European Super League (ESL) and that clubs involved could face "consequences". Twelve major clubs launched plans Monday for a new breakaway league which would drastically change the landscape of the world's most popular sport. "At FIFA we can only and strongly disapprove the creation of the Super League, of a Super League who is a closed shop, a breakaway from the current institutions, from the leagues, from the associations, from UEFA, and from FIFA," Infantino told a UEFA congress in Switzerland. "There is no doubt whatsoever of FIFA's disapproval for this." Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are the six English clubs involved, together with Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid from Spain and Italian trio Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan. UEFA has said the teams would be banned from domestic and other European competitions, including the Champions League. Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, the head of the new ESL, has insisted that would be "impossible", but Infantino threatened action as FIFA took a stronger stance than it did with its initial statement when the news first broke. "It is our task to protect the European sport model, so if some elect to go their own way then they must live with the consequences of their choices," said Infantino. "They are responsible for their choices. "Either you're in or you're out. You can't be half in and half out. Think of it, this has to be absolutely, absolutely clear."

'No doubt' that FIFA 'disapproves' of Super League: Infantino

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea will likely be banned from this season's Champions League semi-finals, UEFA executive committee member Jesper Moller told broadcaster DR on Monday.

"The clubs must go, and I expect that to happen on Friday. Then we have to find out how to finish (this season's) Champions League tournament," said Moller, who is the head of the Danish FA.

"There is an extraordinary executive committee meeting on Friday," he said.

Moller's comments came shortly after UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said he wanted bans on the rebel clubs to be imposed.

"We're still assessing with our legal team but we will take all the sanctions that we can and we will inform you as soon we can," he said. "My opinion is that as soon as possible they have to be banned from all our competitions and the players from all our competitions," Ceferin told reporters.

The trio are part of the 12 clubs who announced on Sunday they were setting up a breakaway European Super League as a rival to UEFA's Champions League.

Real Madrid are due to face Chelsea and Manchester City are drawn against Paris St Germain - who have not signed up to the breakaway league.

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea will likely be banned from this season's Champions League semi-finals, UEFA executive committee member Jesper Moller told broadcaster DR on Monday.

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea will likely be banned from this season's Champions League semi-finals, UEFA executive committee member Jesper Moller told broadcaster DR on Monday. "The clubs must go, and I expect that to happen on Friday. Then we have to find out how to finish (this season's) Champions League tournament," said Moller, who is the head of the Danish FA. "There is an extraordinary executive committee meeting on Friday," he said. Moller's comments came shortly after UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said he wanted bans on the rebel clubs to be imposed. "We're still assessing with our legal team but we will take all the sanctions that we can and we will inform you as soon we can," he said. "My opinion is that as soon as possible they have to be banned from all our competitions and the players from all our competitions," Ceferin told reporters. The trio are part of the 12 clubs who announced on Sunday they were setting up a breakaway European Super League as a rival to UEFA's Champions League. Real Madrid are due to face Chelsea and Manchester City are drawn against Paris St Germain - who have not signed up to the breakaway league.

Real Madrid, Chelsea and Man City could face Champions League semi-final ban: UEFA official

The UEFA executive committee on Monday approved the Champions League reforms, including a brand new ‘Swiss model’ format, which will come into place in the year 2024. As a part of wholescale changes into the UCL, the European competition will consist of 36 instead of the current total of 32.<o:p></o:p>

The development comes after 12 elite football clubs formed a Super League with three more clubs expected to join as co-founders in what will be a 20-team league format tournament among the top European clubs. The move has created an ugly storm on social media as football fans continue to express their outrage on the matter.<o:p></o:p>

The new format -- which will see all 36 clubs brought together into one pool instead of the current system of four-team groups -- was approved at an executive committee meeting of European football's governing body in Switzerland.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/european-super-league-players-will-be-banned-from-champions-league-fifa-world-cup-uefa-president-378643" hreflang="en">European Super League players will be banned from Champions League, FIFA World Cup: UEFA president</a>

Even the new reforms by UEFA for the Champions League have been criticised as it promises new spots for elite clubs who fail to qualify for the UCL.<o:p></o:p>

In an open letter to Agnelli, who recently stepped down as chairman of European Club Association (ECA), fans' groups from several clubs which are represented on the association's board, said: "Your plans to restructure the Champions League by increasing the number of games, introducing qualification based on past achievements, and monopolising commercial rights present a serious threat to the entire game."<o:p></o:p>

Even UEFA president lashed out at Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli: “I have never seen a person lie so many times and as persistently as he did. I spoke with him on Saturday afternoon and he said it is all lies.<o:p></o:p>

"Greed allows all human values to evaporate."<o:p></o:p>

UEFA Champions League 'Swiss model' format - Explained

Under the fresh reforms, new spots will be available for elite clubs that failed to qualify for the tournament. The best eight teams will reach the knockout stages of the tournament while other teams will be able to qualify via a new round of play-off matches.<o:p></o:p>

Notably, every club has been guaranteed as many as 10 matches – which could be a welcome boost to their revenue.<o:p></o:p>

The biggest change in the Champions League format will be the creation of one league instead of many groups.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/european-super-league-explained-what-is-the-format-and-purpose-behind-it-all-you-need-to-know-378604" hreflang="en">European Super League explained: What is the format and purpose behind it? - All you need to know</a>

Interestingly, the European Super League poses a direct threat to the continuation of the Champions League.&nbsp;However, in a statement, the ESL said: "Going forward, the Founding Clubs [of the ESL] look forward to holding discussions with UEFA and FIFA to work together in partnership to deliver the best outcomes for the new League and for football as a whole."<o:p></o:p>

The head of UEFA Aleksander Ceferin said it was "a spit in the face of all football lovers" and reaffirmed that players from clubs involved would be banned from representing their national teams and therefore unable to take part in European Championships or World Cups.<o:p></o:p>

A plan for a breakaway Super League, launched by 12 leading European clubs, is a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed", UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said on Monday.<o:p></o:p>

The UEFA executive committee on Monday approved the Champions League reforms, including a brand new ‘Swiss model’ format, which will come into place in the year 2024.

The UEFA executive committee on Monday approved the Champions League reforms, including a brand new ‘Swiss model’ format, which will come into place in the year 2024. As a part of wholescale changes into the UCL, the European competition will consist of 36 instead of the current total of 32. The development comes after 12 elite football clubs formed a Super League with three more clubs expected to join as co-founders in what will be a 20-team league format tournament among the top European clubs. The move has created an ugly storm on social media as football fans continue to express their outrage on the matter. The new format -- which will see all 36 clubs brought together into one pool instead of the current system of four-team groups -- was approved at an executive committee meeting of European football's governing body in Switzerland. ALSO READ: European Super League players will be banned from Champions League, FIFA World Cup: UEFA president Even the new reforms by UEFA for the Champions League have been criticised as it promises new spots for elite clubs who fail to qualify for the UCL. In an open letter to Agnelli, who recently stepped down as chairman of European Club Association (ECA), fans' groups from several clubs which are represented on the association's board, said: "Your plans to restructure the Champions League by increasing the number of games, introducing qualification based on past achievements, and monopolising commercial rights present a serious threat to the entire game." Even UEFA president lashed out at Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli: “I have never seen a person lie so many times and as persistently as he did. I spoke with him on Saturday afternoon and he said it is all lies. "Greed allows all human values to evaporate." UEFA Champions League 'Swiss model' format - Explained Under the fresh reforms, new spots will be available for elite clubs that failed to qualify for the tournament. The best eight teams will reach the knockout stages of the tournament while other teams will be able to qualify via a new round of play-off matches. Notably, every club has been guaranteed as many as 10 matches – which could be a welcome boost to their revenue. The biggest change in the Champions League format will be the creation of one league instead of many groups. ALSO READ: European Super League explained: What is the format and purpose behind it? - All you need to know Interestingly, the European Super League poses a direct threat to the continuation of the Champions League. However, in a statement, the ESL said: "Going forward, the Founding Clubs [of the ESL] look forward to holding discussions with UEFA and FIFA to work together in partnership to deliver the best outcomes for the new League and for football as a whole." The head of UEFA Aleksander Ceferin said it was "a spit in the face of all football lovers" and reaffirmed that players from clubs involved would be banned from representing their national teams and therefore unable to take part in European Championships or World Cups. A plan for a breakaway Super League, launched by 12 leading European clubs, is a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed", UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said on Monday.

UEFA confirms 'Swiss model' Champions League format from 2024 - Here's everything you need to know

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Monday announced that players from clubs involved in the breakaway European Super League would be banned from representing their national teams and would not be allowed to take part in UEFA-approved European competitions or FIFA World Cups.

Launching a scathing attack on the European Super League, launched by 12 elite European clubs, Ceferin said it is a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/european-super-league-explained-what-is-the-format-and-purpose-behind-it-all-you-need-to-know-378604" hreflang="en">European Super League explained: What is the format and purpose behind it? - All you need to know</a>

UEFA is ready to fight the breakaway, and said on Sunday that it will "consider all measures available to us, at all levels, both judicial and sporting in order to prevent this happening".

The European Super League has been heavily criticised by football authorities, fan organisations and politicians across Europe who say it entrenches the wealth and power of a small elite of clubs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/british-media-blast-clubs-leading-european-super-league-breakaway-378596" hreflang="en">British media blast clubs leading European Super League breakaway</a>

The breakaway clubs will be guaranteed annual places in the competition - in contrast to the current UEFA Champions League, which requires teams to qualify via their domestic leagues.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Monday announced that players from clubs involved in the breakaway European Super League would be banned from representing their national teams and would not be allowed to take part in UEFA-approved European competitions or FIFA World Cups.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Monday announced that players from clubs involved in the breakaway European Super League would be banned from representing their national teams and would not be allowed to take part in UEFA-approved European competitions or FIFA World Cups. Launching a scathing attack on the European Super League, launched by 12 elite European clubs, Ceferin said it is a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed. ALSO READ: European Super League explained: What is the format and purpose behind it? - All you need to know UEFA is ready to fight the breakaway, and said on Sunday that it will "consider all measures available to us, at all levels, both judicial and sporting in order to prevent this happening". The European Super League has been heavily criticised by football authorities, fan organisations and politicians across Europe who say it entrenches the wealth and power of a small elite of clubs. ALSO READ: British media blast clubs leading European Super League breakaway The breakaway clubs will be guaranteed annual places in the competition - in contrast to the current UEFA Champions League, which requires teams to qualify via their domestic leagues.

European Super League players will be banned from Champions League, FIFA World Cup: UEFA president

US investment bank JPMorgan on Monday confirmed it is financing the breakaway Super League featuring 12 of Europe's top football clubs, which threatens to shake-up the world's biggest sport.

"I can confirm that we are financing the deal, but have no further comment at the moment," a bank spokesman said in a statement to AFP.

Each of the clubs from England, Italy and Spain will receive a one-off payment of 3.5 billion euros ($4.2 billion).

Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham -- are involved, alongside Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan.

The clubs were immediately accused of greed and cynicism and threatened with international exile.

Organisers said in a statement that three more founding members would be announced, with a further five places up for grabs through a qualifying system each year and the inaugural edition to start as "soon as practicable".

The Super League announcement appeared to be timed to pre-empt UEFA's own scheduled unveiling of reforms to the Champions League on Monday, with an expansion to 36 teams from 32 and two 'wildcard' slots expected to be among the plans. There would be a minimum of 10 games for each team.

UEFA and the three countries' football associations and domestic leagues described the breakaway as "cynical".

The European Commission vice-president for promoting the European way of life said "a values-driven European model of sport based on diversity and inclusion" must be defended.&nbsp;

EU commissioner Margaritis Schinas added on Twitter:

"There is no scope for reserving it for the few rich and powerful clubs who want to sever links with everything associations stand for: national leagues, promotion and relegation and support to grassroots amateur football.

"Universality, inclusion and diversity are key elements of European sport and of our European way of life."

Schinas did not, however, announce any action to prevent the breakaway nor state that it would break any EU law.

US investment bank JPMorgan on Monday confirmed it is financing the breakaway Super League featuring 12 of Europe's top football clubs, which threatens to shake-up the world's biggest sport.

US investment bank JPMorgan on Monday confirmed it is financing the breakaway Super League featuring 12 of Europe's top football clubs, which threatens to shake-up the world's biggest sport. "I can confirm that we are financing the deal, but have no further comment at the moment," a bank spokesman said in a statement to AFP. Each of the clubs from England, Italy and Spain will receive a one-off payment of 3.5 billion euros ($4.2 billion). Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham -- are involved, alongside Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan. The clubs were immediately accused of greed and cynicism and threatened with international exile. Organisers said in a statement that three more founding members would be announced, with a further five places up for grabs through a qualifying system each year and the inaugural edition to start as "soon as practicable". The Super League announcement appeared to be timed to pre-empt UEFA's own scheduled unveiling of reforms to the Champions League on Monday, with an expansion to 36 teams from 32 and two 'wildcard' slots expected to be among the plans. There would be a minimum of 10 games for each team. UEFA and the three countries' football associations and domestic leagues described the breakaway as "cynical". The European Commission vice-president for promoting the European way of life said "a values-driven European model of sport based on diversity and inclusion" must be defended. EU commissioner Margaritis Schinas added on Twitter: "There is no scope for reserving it for the few rich and powerful clubs who want to sever links with everything associations stand for: national leagues, promotion and relegation and support to grassroots amateur football. "Universality, inclusion and diversity are key elements of European sport and of our European way of life." Schinas did not, however, announce any action to prevent the breakaway nor state that it would break any EU law.

US bank JPMorgan says it's financing football Super League

Twelve of football's most powerful clubs faced accusations of greed and cynicism on Monday as they announced a breakaway European Super League that could have far-reaching implications for the game.

Six Premier League teams -&nbsp;Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham - are involved, alongside Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan.

The clubs, most of them saddled with debt and large wage bills, and hit hard by the pandemic, stand to benefit financially, with predictions that they will share billions of euros.

But the initial reaction from football authorities, fans and pundits was furious, with threats to ban participating clubs from domestic, European and world competitions.

"Our members and football supporters across the world have experienced the ultimate betrayal," the Chelsea Supporters' Trust said.

"This is unforgivable. Enough is enough," it added.

The ESL said the founding clubs had agreed to create a "new midweek competition" to start "as soon as practicable" but that they would continue to play in their domestic leagues.

Three more clubs would be announced, the statement said, with the 15 founder members guaranteed to play each year. Another five places will available "based on achievements in the prior season".

The founding clubs will share 3.5 billion euros for infrastructure investment and to offset pandemic costs, and are expected to receive a further 10 billion euros in "solidarity payments" over the life of the initial commitment -&nbsp;much more than is available in the Champions League.

"I think there are two things in play here: one is greed and the other is desperation," former England Football Association and Manchester City chairman&nbsp;David Bernstein&nbsp;told the BBC.&nbsp;

"I think they're in a desperate situation. One of the things they haven't done during the pandemic is to impose some sort of wages control. They've got themselves into a bit of a predicament."

<h2>- UEFA threat -</h2>

Under the plan, two groups of 10 will play each other home and away, with the top three qualifying for the quarter-finals. The fourth and fifth-based teams would play off for the two remaining spots.

Then the competition would adopt the same two-leg knockout format used in the Champions League before a single-leg final in May. A women's version is also planned.

But European governing body UEFA and the English, Spanish and Italian football authorities warned the clubs face being barred from their national competitions and the Champions League.

"We... will remain united in our efforts to stop this cynical project," read a joint statement.

UEFA also said players from the participating clubs "could be denied the opportunity to represent their national teams".

World body FIFA was less stringent, however, expressing its "disapproval" and calling on all parties "to engage in calm, constructive and balanced dialogue".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the clubs "must answer to their fans and the wider footballing community before taking any further steps".

With no French team among the initial ESL clubs, President Emmanuel Macron said the plans risked "threatening the principle of solidarity and sporting merit".

The ESL announcement was timed to preempt UEFA's own scheduled unveiling of reforms to the Champions League on Monday, with an expansion to 36 teams and an increase in the number of games.

The European Club Association said it "strongly opposes" the Super League while the Premier League, the richest in Europe, issued a furious statement.

"Fans of any club in England and across Europe can currently dream that their team may climb to the top and play against the best," it said.

"We believe that the concept of a European Super League would destroy this dream."

<h2>- 'Lots more to do' -</h2>

Arsenal, who are ninth in the Premier League, well off the qualification spots for Europe, hinted at the obstacles ahead, saying "there's lots more to do to bring the competition to life".

Juventus also warned that it "cannot assure that the project will be eventually successfully launched".

Juventus are facing a battle to finish in the Serie A top four this season, and seven-time European champions AC Milan have not played in the Champions League since 2014.

Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez, who was announced as the first ESL president, said the breakaway reflected the big clubs' wishes.

"Football is the only global sport in the world with more than four billion fans and our responsibility as big clubs is to respond to their desires," he said.&nbsp;

Manchester United's American co-chairman Joel Glazer, who will be a vice-chairman of the Super League, said it "will open a new chapter for European football".&nbsp;

French and German clubs, including reigning European champions Bayern Munich and last season's beaten finalists Paris Saint-Germain, were not among the initial ESL clubs.

La Liga president Javier Tebas compared the ESL clubs to drunks leaving a bar at 5:00am "intoxicated with selfishness and a lack of solidarity".

Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville called the project "an absolute disgrace".&nbsp;

"We have to wrestle back power from the clubs at the top of this league and that includes my club," he said.

Twelve of football's most powerful clubs faced accusations of greed and cynicism on Monday as they announced a breakaway European Super League that could have far-reaching implications for the game.

Twelve of football's most powerful clubs faced accusations of greed and cynicism on Monday as they announced a breakaway European Super League that could have far-reaching implications for the game. Six Premier League teams - Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham - are involved, alongside Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan. The clubs, most of them saddled with debt and large wage bills, and hit hard by the pandemic, stand to benefit financially, with predictions that they will share billions of euros. But the initial reaction from football authorities, fans and pundits was furious, with threats to ban participating clubs from domestic, European and world competitions. "Our members and football supporters across the world have experienced the ultimate betrayal," the Chelsea Supporters' Trust said. "This is unforgivable. Enough is enough," it added. The ESL said the founding clubs had agreed to create a "new midweek competition" to start "as soon as practicable" but that they would continue to play in their domestic leagues. Three more clubs would be announced, the statement said, with the 15 founder members guaranteed to play each year. Another five places will available "based on achievements in the prior season". The founding clubs will share 3.5 billion euros for infrastructure investment and to offset pandemic costs, and are expected to receive a further 10 billion euros in "solidarity payments" over the life of the initial commitment - much more than is available in the Champions League. "I think there are two things in play here: one is greed and the other is desperation," former England Football Association and Manchester City chairman David Bernstein told the BBC. "I think they're in a desperate situation. One of the things they haven't done during the pandemic is to impose some sort of wages control. They've got themselves into a bit of a predicament." - UEFA threat - Under the plan, two groups of 10 will play each other home and away, with the top three qualifying for the quarter-finals. The fourth and fifth-based teams would play off for the two remaining spots. Then the competition would adopt the same two-leg knockout format used in the Champions League before a single-leg final in May. A women's version is also planned. But European governing body UEFA and the English, Spanish and Italian football authorities warned the clubs face being barred from their national competitions and the Champions League. "We... will remain united in our efforts to stop this cynical project," read a joint statement. UEFA also said players from the participating clubs "could be denied the opportunity to represent their national teams". World body FIFA was less stringent, however, expressing its "disapproval" and calling on all parties "to engage in calm, constructive and balanced dialogue". British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the clubs "must answer to their fans and the wider footballing community before taking any further steps". With no French team among the initial ESL clubs, President Emmanuel Macron said the plans risked "threatening the principle of solidarity and sporting merit". The ESL announcement was timed to preempt UEFA's own scheduled unveiling of reforms to the Champions League on Monday, with an expansion to 36 teams and an increase in the number of games. The European Club Association said it "strongly opposes" the Super League while the Premier League, the richest in Europe, issued a furious statement. "Fans of any club in England and across Europe can currently dream that their team may climb to the top and play against the best," it said. "We believe that the concept of a European Super League would destroy this dream." - 'Lots more to do' - Arsenal, who are ninth in the Premier League, well off the qualification spots for Europe, hinted at the obstacles ahead, saying "there's lots more to do to bring the competition to life". Juventus also warned that it "cannot assure that the project will be eventually successfully launched". Juventus are facing a battle to finish in the Serie A top four this season, and seven-time European champions AC Milan have not played in the Champions League since 2014. Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez, who was announced as the first ESL president, said the breakaway reflected the big clubs' wishes. "Football is the only global sport in the world with more than four billion fans and our responsibility as big clubs is to respond to their desires," he said. Manchester United's American co-chairman Joel Glazer, who will be a vice-chairman of the Super League, said it "will open a new chapter for European football". French and German clubs, including reigning European champions Bayern Munich and last season's beaten finalists Paris Saint-Germain, were not among the initial ESL clubs. La Liga president Javier Tebas compared the ESL clubs to drunks leaving a bar at 5:00am "intoxicated with selfishness and a lack of solidarity". Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville called the project "an absolute disgrace". "We have to wrestle back power from the clubs at the top of this league and that includes my club," he said.

European heavyweights face criticism over 'cynical' Super League

As many as 12 major football clubs announced a new European Super League on Monday as they break away from the UEFA Champions League. While the development was received extremely angrily by fans, politicians and respective domestic leagues, a couple of clubs have reportedly taken their names back from the breakaway super league.<o:p></o:p>

But what is European Super League? What is the format of the tournament? Will it go ahead after the critical reactions from the footballing world? Let us take a look at the main things and explanation about the European Super League – all you need to know.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">What is European Super League?<o:p></o:p></h2>

Explained: Twelve clubs from England, Spain and Italy agreed to start a new competition – the Super League – governed by its founding clubs. The competition is a direct rival to the UEFA-run Champions League. <o:p></o:p>

Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are the English clubs involved, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Real Madrid are the Spanish teams and the Italian sides are AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus. The teams have 99 European titles between them.<o:p></o:p>

Another three teams are likely to join the founding clubs. It guarantees participation to all 15 founding clubs while the other five qualify annually.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/european-heavyweights-face-criticism-over-cynical-super-league-378591" hreflang="en">European heavyweights face criticism over 'cynical' Super League</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">What is the format of European Super League?<o:p></o:p></h2>

Explained: The European Super League will feature two groups of 10 playing home and away and three qualifying for the quarter-finals. <o:p></o:p>

The fourth and fifth-placed clubs will play off for the quarter-final spots and quarter and semis will be played over two legs. The final will be a single match at a neutral venue.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">European Super League – what is the purpose behind it?<o:p></o:p></h2>

Explained: Europe’s top clubs want guaranteed income. With UEFA Champions League being played with a qualification process, the clubs don’t want to risk the money coming from European club tournaments. <o:p></o:p>

The clubs, saddled with big debts and huge wages for their star players, say the pandemic has "accelerated the instability in the existing European football economic model".<o:p></o:p>

The Super League will bring them far more than the Champions League. The founding clubs are expected to receive more than 10 billion euros in uncapped "solidarity payments" during their initial commitment period.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenham-hotspur-sack-jose-mourinho-ryan-mason-to-take-charge-378588" hreflang="en">Tottenham Hotspur sack Jose Mourinho, Ryan Mason to take charge</a>

They will also receive 3.5 billion euros for infrastructure investment and to offset their losses from the pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

By comparison, UEFA competitions generated 3.2 billion euros in TV earnings in the pre-pandemic 2018-2019 season.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">European Super League - Will it actually happen?&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></h2>

Explained: The UEFA Super League has already been subjected to worldwide criticism including UEFA and domestic leagues. A couple of founding clubs have already taken their names back and by the looks of it, the tournament will not get much support from fans.<o:p></o:p>

FIFA's immediate reaction was less severe, although it issued a statement in January warning that it would not recognise the Super League.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

As many as 12 major football clubs announced a new European Super League on Monday as they break away from the UEFA Champions League. While the development was received extremely angrily by fans, politicians and respective domestic leagues, a couple of clubs have reportedly taken their names back from the breakaway super league.

As many as 12 major football clubs announced a new European Super League on Monday as they break away from the UEFA Champions League. While the development was received extremely angrily by fans, politicians and respective domestic leagues, a couple of clubs have reportedly taken their names back from the breakaway super league. But what is European Super League? What is the format of the tournament? Will it go ahead after the critical reactions from the footballing world? Let us take a look at the main things and explanation about the European Super League – all you need to know. What is European Super League? Explained: Twelve clubs from England, Spain and Italy agreed to start a new competition – the Super League – governed by its founding clubs. The competition is a direct rival to the UEFA-run Champions League. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are the English clubs involved, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Real Madrid are the Spanish teams and the Italian sides are AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus. The teams have 99 European titles between them. Another three teams are likely to join the founding clubs. It guarantees participation to all 15 founding clubs while the other five qualify annually. ALSO READ: European heavyweights face criticism over 'cynical' Super League What is the format of European Super League? Explained: The European Super League will feature two groups of 10 playing home and away and three qualifying for the quarter-finals. The fourth and fifth-placed clubs will play off for the quarter-final spots and quarter and semis will be played over two legs. The final will be a single match at a neutral venue. European Super League – what is the purpose behind it? Explained: Europe’s top clubs want guaranteed income. With UEFA Champions League being played with a qualification process, the clubs don’t want to risk the money coming from European club tournaments. The clubs, saddled with big debts and huge wages for their star players, say the pandemic has "accelerated the instability in the existing European football economic model". The Super League will bring them far more than the Champions League. The founding clubs are expected to receive more than 10 billion euros in uncapped "solidarity payments" during their initial commitment period. ALSO READ: Tottenham Hotspur sack Jose Mourinho, Ryan Mason to take charge They will also receive 3.5 billion euros for infrastructure investment and to offset their losses from the pandemic. By comparison, UEFA competitions generated 3.2 billion euros in TV earnings in the pre-pandemic 2018-2019 season. European Super League - Will it actually happen? Explained: The UEFA Super League has already been subjected to worldwide criticism including UEFA and domestic leagues. A couple of founding clubs have already taken their names back and by the looks of it, the tournament will not get much support from fans. FIFA's immediate reaction was less severe, although it issued a statement in January warning that it would not recognise the Super League.

European Super League explained: What is the format and purpose behind it? - All you need to know

Plans for a breakaway European Super League provoked a furious reaction from the British media on Monday as the six English Premier League clubs involved were universally condemned.

Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham are among 12 teams to sign up to the plan, also featuring Spanish trio Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, as well as Italy's Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan.

The breakaway clubs have been lured by a 3.5 billion euro ($4.2 billion, £3 billion) pot to sign up to the competition which would take them out of the Champions League but not their domestic leagues.

The British media were quick to turn their guns on the greed-motivated owners of the Premier League teams involved.

The Guardian's Jonathan Liew said: "How the world's most popular sport managed to hand over so much of its power and wealth and influence to people who despise it.

"Because make no mistake: this is an idea that could only have been devised by someone who truly hates football to its bones.

"Who hates football so much that they want to prune it, gut it, dismember it, from the grassroots game to the World Cup.

"Who finds the very idea of competitive sport offensive, an unhealthy distraction from the main objective, which in a way has always been capitalism's main objective."

Matt Dickinson, writing in The Times, was hardly more sparing in his opprobrium, comparing the owners' tactics to that of blackmailers.

<h2>- 'Shameless exploiters' -</h2>

"These shameless exploiters of football, and of our passions, have reached for the old playbook, the same blunt weapon of a European Super League," he wrote.

"Depressingly, we have to say 'why not?' when it has worked for them every time before.

"Like the blackmailer who says he will walk away for a grand but comes back asking for double, then triple, preying on our weakness, these clubs are never satisfied, never bought off.

"A billion? Make it a gazillion. Two Champions League places? Call it four. A coefficient safety net? Make it a closed league. Always more, more, more."

Daily Mail chief sportswriter Martin Samuel said punishment for the clubs competing in the "despicable plastic competition that threatens the existence of English football" should be brutal.

He suggests a united front of opposition which has worked in the past could be as effective now.&nbsp;

"The utter contempt the protagonists have for the rest of the game," he wrote.

"For the fans, especially, but for the clubs, the players, the coaches, the history and traditions; for the wider good, for the national team, the football pyramid, for everything that football has meant to communities and society stretching back across two centuries.

"It was the backlash from the ordinary supporters that killed the 39th game proposal, and it can kill this too.

"Cancel the League Cup final (next Sunday Manchester City play Tottenham Hotspur), because why should the EFL present a trophy to one of two clubs whose greed threatens to destroy their crown jewel competition, the only reason they sit at the broadcasters' table."

Plans for a breakaway European Super League provoked a furious reaction from the British media on Monday as the six English Premier League clubs involved were universally condemned.

Plans for a breakaway European Super League provoked a furious reaction from the British media on Monday as the six English Premier League clubs involved were universally condemned. Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham are among 12 teams to sign up to the plan, also featuring Spanish trio Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, as well as Italy's Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan. The breakaway clubs have been lured by a 3.5 billion euro ($4.2 billion, £3 billion) pot to sign up to the competition which would take them out of the Champions League but not their domestic leagues. The British media were quick to turn their guns on the greed-motivated owners of the Premier League teams involved. The Guardian's Jonathan Liew said: "How the world's most popular sport managed to hand over so much of its power and wealth and influence to people who despise it. "Because make no mistake: this is an idea that could only have been devised by someone who truly hates football to its bones. "Who hates football so much that they want to prune it, gut it, dismember it, from the grassroots game to the World Cup. "Who finds the very idea of competitive sport offensive, an unhealthy distraction from the main objective, which in a way has always been capitalism's main objective." Matt Dickinson, writing in The Times, was hardly more sparing in his opprobrium, comparing the owners' tactics to that of blackmailers. - 'Shameless exploiters' - "These shameless exploiters of football, and of our passions, have reached for the old playbook, the same blunt weapon of a European Super League," he wrote. "Depressingly, we have to say 'why not?' when it has worked for them every time before. "Like the blackmailer who says he will walk away for a grand but comes back asking for double, then triple, preying on our weakness, these clubs are never satisfied, never bought off. "A billion? Make it a gazillion. Two Champions League places? Call it four. A coefficient safety net? Make it a closed league. Always more, more, more." Daily Mail chief sportswriter Martin Samuel said punishment for the clubs competing in the "despicable plastic competition that threatens the existence of English football" should be brutal. He suggests a united front of opposition which has worked in the past could be as effective now. "The utter contempt the protagonists have for the rest of the game," he wrote. "For the fans, especially, but for the clubs, the players, the coaches, the history and traditions; for the wider good, for the national team, the football pyramid, for everything that football has meant to communities and society stretching back across two centuries. "It was the backlash from the ordinary supporters that killed the 39th game proposal, and it can kill this too. "Cancel the League Cup final (next Sunday Manchester City play Tottenham Hotspur), because why should the EFL present a trophy to one of two clubs whose greed threatens to destroy their crown jewel competition, the only reason they sit at the broadcasters' table."

British media blast clubs leading European Super League breakaway

Spanish top-flight LaLiga has strongly condemned and opposed the European Super League, which has been central to widespread criticism after 12 elite football clubs in Europe announced that they were creating a separate league rather than playing in UEFA club competition.

Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham are among 12 teams to sign up to the plan, also featuring Spanish trio Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, as well as Italy's Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan.

The breakaway clubs have been lured by a 3.5 billion euro ($4.2 billion, £3 billion) pot to sign up to the competition which would take them out of the Champions League but not their domestic leagues.

LaLiga issued a statement on the European Super League as it said that the tournament is nothing but a selfish ploy to enrich the already super rich while adding it will undermine the appeal of the whole game and leave a damaging impact on the future of the footballing ecosystem.

<h2>LaLiga's full statement on European Super League:</h2>

LaLiga strongly condemns the recently published proposal for a breakaway, elitist European competition that attacks the principles of open competition and sporting merit which are at the heart of the domestic and European football pyramid.

Today football fans across Europe can dream that their club, no matter the size, may excel, climb to the top and compete at the pinnacle of European football. LaLiga defends this European tradition of football for all. The concept proposed by 12 European clubs destroys that dream, shutting the door to the top of European football, allowing in just an elite few.

LaLiga has a proud, 90-year history as an open, merit-based competition. Millions of fans around the world follow the 42 clubs of LaLiga Santander and LaLiga SmartBank. The success of our competitions has helped football to become a key contributor to the Spanish economy, accounting for nearly 1.4% of GDP and providing employment for nearly 200,000 people.

The newly proposed top European competition is nothing more than a selfish, egotistical proposal designed to further enrich the already super rich. It will undermine the appeal of the whole game and have a deeply damaging impact on the immediate and future of LaLiga, its member clubs, and all the entire footballing ecosystem.

In addition, the breakaway league threatens the rest of Spanish sports to which, in the current season, LaLiga will contribute more than 126 million euros as part of its agreement with the Spanish government and the Spanish FA.

This destruction of the European football ecosystem will also ultimately cause the failure of this new competition and its participating clubs, which have built their success based on the achievement of sports titles and triumphs, which will now be more limited.

We use all measures at our disposal and work with all stakeholders to defend the integrity and future of Spanish football in the best interests of the game.

Spanish top-flight LaLiga has strongly condemned and opposed the European Super League, which has been central to widespread criticism after 12 elite football clubs in Europe announced that they were creating a separate league rather than playing in UEFA club competition.

Spanish top-flight LaLiga has strongly condemned and opposed the European Super League, which has been central to widespread criticism after 12 elite football clubs in Europe announced that they were creating a separate league rather than playing in UEFA club competition. Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham are among 12 teams to sign up to the plan, also featuring Spanish trio Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, as well as Italy's Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan. The breakaway clubs have been lured by a 3.5 billion euro ($4.2 billion, £3 billion) pot to sign up to the competition which would take them out of the Champions League but not their domestic leagues. LaLiga issued a statement on the European Super League as it said that the tournament is nothing but a selfish ploy to enrich the already super rich while adding it will undermine the appeal of the whole game and leave a damaging impact on the future of the footballing ecosystem. LaLiga's full statement on European Super League: LaLiga strongly condemns the recently published proposal for a breakaway, elitist European competition that attacks the principles of open competition and sporting merit which are at the heart of the domestic and European football pyramid. Today football fans across Europe can dream that their club, no matter the size, may excel, climb to the top and compete at the pinnacle of European football. LaLiga defends this European tradition of football for all. The concept proposed by 12 European clubs destroys that dream, shutting the door to the top of European football, allowing in just an elite few. LaLiga has a proud, 90-year history as an open, merit-based competition. Millions of fans around the world follow the 42 clubs of LaLiga Santander and LaLiga SmartBank. The success of our competitions has helped football to become a key contributor to the Spanish economy, accounting for nearly 1.4% of GDP and providing employment for nearly 200,000 people. The newly proposed top European competition is nothing more than a selfish, egotistical proposal designed to further enrich the already super rich. It will undermine the appeal of the whole game and have a deeply damaging impact on the immediate and future of LaLiga, its member clubs, and all the entire footballing ecosystem. In addition, the breakaway league threatens the rest of Spanish sports to which, in the current season, LaLiga will contribute more than 126 million euros as part of its agreement with the Spanish government and the Spanish FA. This destruction of the European football ecosystem will also ultimately cause the failure of this new competition and its participating clubs, which have built their success based on the achievement of sports titles and triumphs, which will now be more limited. We use all measures at our disposal and work with all stakeholders to defend the integrity and future of Spanish football in the best interests of the game.

European Super League: LaLiga condemns the proposal for a breakaway elitist European competition

Jose Mourinho has been sacked as the Tottenham Hotspur manager after talks on Monday. The decision comes less than a week before the Carabao Cup final. First-team coaches Ryan Mason and Chris Powell will take charge of the London club for the remainder of the campaign.

Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy took the decision over the club's disappointing second half of the Premier League 2020-21 season.

Tottenham Hotspur drew Everton 2-2 on Friday and the drop of points leaves the club seventh in the table, five points behind the Champions League spots and the Spurs chairman decided it is time to move on.

<h2>Tottenham Hotspur sack Jose Mourinho: Club Statement</h2>

"The Club can today announce that Jose Mourinho and his coaching staff Joao Sacramento, Nuno Santos, Carlos Lalin and Giovanni Cerra have been relieved of their duties.

Chairman, Daniel Levy, said: "Jose and his coaching staff have been with us through some of our most challenging times as a Club. Jose is a true professional who showed enormous resilience during the pandemic. On a personal level I have enjoyed working with him and regret that things have not worked out as we both had envisaged. He will always be welcome here and we should like to thank him and his coaching staff for their contribution."

Ryan Mason will take First Team training today and a further update will follow in due course."

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The Club can today announce that Jose Mourinho and his coaching staff Joao Sacramento, Nuno Santos, Carlos Lalin and Giovanni Cerra have been relieved of their duties.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/THFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#THFC</a> ⚪️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COYS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COYS</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/breakaway-super-league-threat-re-emerges-hours-before-uefa-vote-378458" hreflang="en">Breakaway Super League threat re-emerges hours before UEFA vote</a>

Notably, Mourinho has dropped more points from winning position than any other Premier League club and it has been reported that he has lost the dressing room following series of poor results.

Mourinho was appointed Mauricio Pochettino's successor in November 2019 as the club finished sixth in his first season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-munich-disapproves-of-the-unilateral-communications-issued-by-hansi-flick-378443" hreflang="en">Bayern Munich 'disapproves of the unilateral communications issued by Hansi Flick'</a>

Tottenham Hotspur play the League Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday and the Spurs will go for its first trophy since they lifted the same trophy in 2008.

Jose Mourinho has been sacked as the Tottenham Hotspur manager after talks on Monday. The decision comes less than a week before the Carabao Cup final. First-team coaches Ryan Mason and Chris Powell will take charge of the London club for the remainder of the campaign.

Jose Mourinho has been sacked as the Tottenham Hotspur manager after talks on Monday. The decision comes less than a week before the Carabao Cup final. First-team coaches Ryan Mason and Chris Powell will take charge of the London club for the remainder of the campaign. Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy took the decision over the club's disappointing second half of the Premier League 2020-21 season. Tottenham Hotspur drew Everton 2-2 on Friday and the drop of points leaves the club seventh in the table, five points behind the Champions League spots and the Spurs chairman decided it is time to move on. Tottenham Hotspur sack Jose Mourinho: Club Statement "The Club can today announce that Jose Mourinho and his coaching staff Joao Sacramento, Nuno Santos, Carlos Lalin and Giovanni Cerra have been relieved of their duties. Chairman, Daniel Levy, said: "Jose and his coaching staff have been with us through some of our most challenging times as a Club. Jose is a true professional who showed enormous resilience during the pandemic. On a personal level I have enjoyed working with him and regret that things have not worked out as we both had envisaged. He will always be welcome here and we should like to thank him and his coaching staff for their contribution." Ryan Mason will take First Team training today and a further update will follow in due course." The Club can today announce that Jose Mourinho and his coaching staff Joao Sacramento, Nuno Santos, Carlos Lalin and Giovanni Cerra have been relieved of their duties.#THFC ⚪️ #COYS — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) April 19, 2021 × ALSO READ: Breakaway Super League threat re-emerges hours before UEFA vote Notably, Mourinho has dropped more points from winning position than any other Premier League club and it has been reported that he has lost the dressing room following series of poor results. Mourinho was appointed Mauricio Pochettino's successor in November 2019 as the club finished sixth in his first season. ALSO READ: Bayern Munich 'disapproves of the unilateral communications issued by Hansi Flick' Tottenham Hotspur play the League Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday and the Spurs will go for its first trophy since they lifted the same trophy in 2008.

Tottenham Hotspur sack Jose Mourinho, Ryan Mason to take charge

Andrea Pirlo conceded Juventas missed Cristiano Ronaldo's "killer instinct" as the Italian champions fell to their first league defeat in two decades to Atalanta on Sunday leaving their participation in next season's Champions League at risk.

Leaders Inter Milan edged towards the Serie A title despite a 1-1 draw at Napoli, to pull 13 points ahead of Juventus who dropped to fourth place.

Christian Eriksen snatched a point for Inter whose 11-match winning streak ended but who hold a nine-point advantage on AC Milan as they target a first league title since 2010.&nbsp;

Milan earlier got back winning in the San Siro after two months 2-1 against Genoa.

Juve's nine-year reign as champions looks set to end with nine games left, and their European hopes are also at risk.

Substitute Ruslan Malinovskyi struck three minutes from time in Bergamo with a shot that took a deflection off Alex Sandro as Atalanta won 1-0 to move third.

Juventus were playing without injured Ronaldo, the top scorer in Serie A with 25 goals this campaign.&nbsp;

"We knew it would be tough against Atalanta," said Juve coach Andrea Pirlo.

"Ronaldo is our finisher, he adapts to these matches, because he's a champion.

"He's a penalty area killer. Today we had our chances, we didn't use them and we were punished by an episode."

Juve have failed to win any of the four matches they have played this season without 36-year-old Ronaldo.

But they held fourth spot two points ahead of Napoli whose six-match winning streak at home was stopped by Inter.

In Naples, top Inter scorer Romelu Lukaku rattled the woodwork either side of Napoli's opener, an own-goal following a blunder from visiting goalkeeper Samir Handanovic.

Lorenzo Insigne tried to connect with Victor Osimhen to finish off with Handanovic intercepting the ball only to lose control after colliding with Stefan de Vrij sending into his own net.

Eriksen pulled Inter level 10 minutes after the break rifling in from just outside the penalty area.

"I'm very happy and proud of this group of guys who have grown significantly in many ways," said Inter coach Antonio Conte.&nbsp;

"On other occasions we would have lost the game, we would have fallen on that goal conceded. Instead the team reacted, they know what they are capable of and want to fight for something important."

<h2>- Milan back winning in San Siro -</h2>

In Milan, Gianluca Scamacca's 68th-minute own goal kept the seven-time European champions on course for a return to Champions League football next season.

Stefano Pioli's side had not won their last six games in the San Siro in all competitions and were playing without suspended forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

"We wasted a lot, we could have finished it earlier, but the important thing is the spirit to stay in the game until the very end," said Pioli, who has given up on catching Inter.

"Inter have taken too many points to think that we can still fight for the Scudetto (league title).

"Winning was important. We will have to face important teams, Atalanta, Juventus, Lazio, from here to the end they will all be difficult."

Ante Rebic put Milan ahead in the 13th minute with Rafael Leao, taking the place of Ibrahimovic, missing a chance for a second minutes later.

A Mattia Destro header against his former club pulled 14th-placed Genoa level eight minutes before the break.

Mario Mandzukic came off the bench for his first appearance in over two months just after the hour and had a role in the winning goal, which Scamacca guided past his own goalkeeper from a Hakan Calhanoglu corner.

In Rome, Lazio beat Benevento 5-4 in a match between coaching brothers Simone and Filippo Inzaghi to stay in the chase for the Champions League.

Ciro Immobile scored twice for the hosts and also missed a penalty as sixth-placed Lazio are four points behind Juventus having played a game less.

Roma's Champions League ambitions took a knock with a 3-1 defeat at Torino, who boosted their chances of top-flight survival.

Roma have taken four points from the last five games, and are stuck in seventh position, eight points off the Champions League berths.

Andrea Pirlo conceded Juventas missed Cristiano Ronaldo's "killer instinct" as the Italian champions fell to their first league defeat in two decades to Atalanta on Sunday leaving their participation in next season's Champions League at risk.

Andrea Pirlo conceded Juventas missed Cristiano Ronaldo's "killer instinct" as the Italian champions fell to their first league defeat in two decades to Atalanta on Sunday leaving their participation in next season's Champions League at risk. Leaders Inter Milan edged towards the Serie A title despite a 1-1 draw at Napoli, to pull 13 points ahead of Juventus who dropped to fourth place. Christian Eriksen snatched a point for Inter whose 11-match winning streak ended but who hold a nine-point advantage on AC Milan as they target a first league title since 2010. Milan earlier got back winning in the San Siro after two months 2-1 against Genoa. Juve's nine-year reign as champions looks set to end with nine games left, and their European hopes are also at risk. Substitute Ruslan Malinovskyi struck three minutes from time in Bergamo with a shot that took a deflection off Alex Sandro as Atalanta won 1-0 to move third. Juventus were playing without injured Ronaldo, the top scorer in Serie A with 25 goals this campaign. "We knew it would be tough against Atalanta," said Juve coach Andrea Pirlo. "Ronaldo is our finisher, he adapts to these matches, because he's a champion. "He's a penalty area killer. Today we had our chances, we didn't use them and we were punished by an episode." Juve have failed to win any of the four matches they have played this season without 36-year-old Ronaldo. But they held fourth spot two points ahead of Napoli whose six-match winning streak at home was stopped by Inter. In Naples, top Inter scorer Romelu Lukaku rattled the woodwork either side of Napoli's opener, an own-goal following a blunder from visiting goalkeeper Samir Handanovic. Lorenzo Insigne tried to connect with Victor Osimhen to finish off with Handanovic intercepting the ball only to lose control after colliding with Stefan de Vrij sending into his own net. Eriksen pulled Inter level 10 minutes after the break rifling in from just outside the penalty area. "I'm very happy and proud of this group of guys who have grown significantly in many ways," said Inter coach Antonio Conte. "On other occasions we would have lost the game, we would have fallen on that goal conceded. Instead the team reacted, they know what they are capable of and want to fight for something important." - Milan back winning in San Siro - In Milan, Gianluca Scamacca's 68th-minute own goal kept the seven-time European champions on course for a return to Champions League football next season. Stefano Pioli's side had not won their last six games in the San Siro in all competitions and were playing without suspended forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic. "We wasted a lot, we could have finished it earlier, but the important thing is the spirit to stay in the game until the very end," said Pioli, who has given up on catching Inter. "Inter have taken too many points to think that we can still fight for the Scudetto (league title). "Winning was important. We will have to face important teams, Atalanta, Juventus, Lazio, from here to the end they will all be difficult." Ante Rebic put Milan ahead in the 13th minute with Rafael Leao, taking the place of Ibrahimovic, missing a chance for a second minutes later. A Mattia Destro header against his former club pulled 14th-placed Genoa level eight minutes before the break. Mario Mandzukic came off the bench for his first appearance in over two months just after the hour and had a role in the winning goal, which Scamacca guided past his own goalkeeper from a Hakan Calhanoglu corner. In Rome, Lazio beat Benevento 5-4 in a match between coaching brothers Simone and Filippo Inzaghi to stay in the chase for the Champions League. Ciro Immobile scored twice for the hosts and also missed a penalty as sixth-placed Lazio are four points behind Juventus having played a game less. Roma's Champions League ambitions took a knock with a 3-1 defeat at Torino, who boosted their chances of top-flight survival. Roma have taken four points from the last five games, and are stuck in seventh position, eight points off the Champions League berths.

Juve's Champions League at risk, Inter edge towards title despite Napoli draw

Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund said Monday that they and German rivals Bayern Munich both rejected proposals to form a European Super League.

In a statement on Monday, Dortmund chairman Hans-Joachim Watzke said that the members of the European Club Association (ECA) had met Sunday evening and expressed "a clear opinion to reject the foundation of a Super League".

He added that the two German clubs on the ECA board, Bayern and Dortmund, had taken "100 percent" the same position "in all discussions".

The announcement appears to confirm that neither of Germany's two biggest clubs will join the breakaway league, whose announcement on Sunday threw European football into turmoil.

Overnight, 12 of Europe's most powerful clubs announced the launch of the so-called European Super League to oversee a new midweek competition.&nbsp;

Six of the breakaway clubs are from the English Premier League. Three are Spanish and three Italian. Three more are to be announced.

Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund said Monday that they and German rivals Bayern Munich both rejected proposals to form a European Super League. In a statement on Monday, Dortmund chairman Hans-Joachim Watzke said that the members of the European Club Association (ECA) had met Sunday evening and expressed "a clear opinion to reject the foundation of a Super League".

Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund said Monday that they and German rivals Bayern Munich both rejected proposals to form a European Super League. In a statement on Monday, Dortmund chairman Hans-Joachim Watzke said that the members of the European Club Association (ECA) had met Sunday evening and expressed "a clear opinion to reject the foundation of a Super League". He added that the two German clubs on the ECA board, Bayern and Dortmund, had taken "100 percent" the same position "in all discussions". The announcement appears to confirm that neither of Germany's two biggest clubs will join the breakaway league, whose announcement on Sunday threw European football into turmoil. Overnight, 12 of Europe's most powerful clubs announced the launch of the so-called European Super League to oversee a new midweek competition. Six of the breakaway clubs are from the English Premier League. Three are Spanish and three Italian. Three more are to be announced.

Dortmund, Bayern 'reject' Super League plans: Borussia chairman

UEFA is expected to formalise radical reforms to the format of the Champions League at a key meeting of its executive committee on Monday which could also see some cities removed as hosts of the delayed Euro 2020.

Plans to reform Europe's elite club competition from 2024 onwards were initially set to be approved last month before being put on hold after the powerful European Club Association (ECA) said it was "not yet in a position to formally endorse key changes".

According to sources close to the negotiations, certain leading clubs wanted greater control of UEFA Club Competitions (UCC), the subsidiary company which advises UEFA itself on commercial matters.

Amid talk of an attempted power grab by certain clubs, and with the spectre of a breakaway Super League possibly involving several of those clubs still hanging in the air, the hope is that a solution has been found.

UEFA confirmed on Friday that the reforms were at the top of the agenda for the meeting in the Swiss town of Montreux, on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva.

The Champions League group stage is set to be completely overhauled, with an increase from 32 to 36 participants and the introduction of a so-called 'Swiss system' inspired by chess, with clubs playing 10 group games instead of the current six, all against different opponents.

While the broader outline of the reforms has been an open secret for some time, discussions have been ongoing about several details, including who the four extra places would go to.

France, as Europe's fifth-ranked nation, is expected to get a third guaranteed spot in the group phase, while more places could be given on the back of historical performances -- using UEFA's club coefficient.

That would benefit clubs who have enjoyed success in the past but who failed to qualify via their league position -- think clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool, currently underperforming in the Premier League, or Borussia Dortmund in Germany, who as it stands may all miss out on next season's Champions League.

The ultimate goal of the reforms is to increase broadcast rights for the competition to satisfy cash-hungry leading European clubs and end the threat of a breakaway Super League.

At the same time UEFA's need to finalise plans for Euro 2020 is pressing.

<h2>- Doubts over Munich, Bilbao and Dublin -</h2>

Postponed by a year due to the pandemic, the European Championship is set to start in Rome on June 11 and is supposed to be played at 12 different venues spread across the continent, a controversial arrangement even before the pandemic brought about widespread travel restrictions.

The Italian capital was only confirmed as a host city last Wednesday when local authorities confirmed spectators would be allowed in up to 25 percent of the capacity of the 68,000-seat Stadio Olimpico.

It joins eight other cities -- Saint-Petersburg, Baku, Budapest, Amsterdam, Bucharest, Copenhagen, Glasgow and London -- in being confirmed, although the number of fans allowed into stadiums will vary from one venue to the other.

However, uncertainty remains over the three other host cities.

Munich, Bilbao and Dublin were all given until Monday to provide UEFA with additional information on their plans for spectators.

UEFA could yet take matches due to be played there and relocate them to other existing host cities, although the president of the Spanish Football Federation has said he will do "everything humanly possible" to ensure Spain keeps its four scheduled Euro games.

If UEFA decide that Bilbao, in the Basque Country, cannot host matches, Luis Rubiales has suggested Seville could be an alternative option.

"It is true that there are serious difficulties in Bilbao and with this in mind, it is UEFA who has to decide," he said.

UEFA is expected to formalise radical reforms to the format of the Champions League at a key meeting of its executive committee on Monday which could also see some cities removed as hosts of the delayed Euro 2020.

UEFA is expected to formalise radical reforms to the format of the Champions League at a key meeting of its executive committee on Monday which could also see some cities removed as hosts of the delayed Euro 2020. Plans to reform Europe's elite club competition from 2024 onwards were initially set to be approved last month before being put on hold after the powerful European Club Association (ECA) said it was "not yet in a position to formally endorse key changes". According to sources close to the negotiations, certain leading clubs wanted greater control of UEFA Club Competitions (UCC), the subsidiary company which advises UEFA itself on commercial matters. Amid talk of an attempted power grab by certain clubs, and with the spectre of a breakaway Super League possibly involving several of those clubs still hanging in the air, the hope is that a solution has been found. UEFA confirmed on Friday that the reforms were at the top of the agenda for the meeting in the Swiss town of Montreux, on the eastern shore of Lake Geneva. The Champions League group stage is set to be completely overhauled, with an increase from 32 to 36 participants and the introduction of a so-called 'Swiss system' inspired by chess, with clubs playing 10 group games instead of the current six, all against different opponents. While the broader outline of the reforms has been an open secret for some time, discussions have been ongoing about several details, including who the four extra places would go to. France, as Europe's fifth-ranked nation, is expected to get a third guaranteed spot in the group phase, while more places could be given on the back of historical performances -- using UEFA's club coefficient. That would benefit clubs who have enjoyed success in the past but who failed to qualify via their league position -- think clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool, currently underperforming in the Premier League, or Borussia Dortmund in Germany, who as it stands may all miss out on next season's Champions League. The ultimate goal of the reforms is to increase broadcast rights for the competition to satisfy cash-hungry leading European clubs and end the threat of a breakaway Super League. At the same time UEFA's need to finalise plans for Euro 2020 is pressing. - Doubts over Munich, Bilbao and Dublin - Postponed by a year due to the pandemic, the European Championship is set to start in Rome on June 11 and is supposed to be played at 12 different venues spread across the continent, a controversial arrangement even before the pandemic brought about widespread travel restrictions. The Italian capital was only confirmed as a host city last Wednesday when local authorities confirmed spectators would be allowed in up to 25 percent of the capacity of the 68,000-seat Stadio Olimpico. It joins eight other cities -- Saint-Petersburg, Baku, Budapest, Amsterdam, Bucharest, Copenhagen, Glasgow and London -- in being confirmed, although the number of fans allowed into stadiums will vary from one venue to the other. However, uncertainty remains over the three other host cities. Munich, Bilbao and Dublin were all given until Monday to provide UEFA with additional information on their plans for spectators. UEFA could yet take matches due to be played there and relocate them to other existing host cities, although the president of the Spanish Football Federation has said he will do "everything humanly possible" to ensure Spain keeps its four scheduled Euro games. If UEFA decide that Bilbao, in the Basque Country, cannot host matches, Luis Rubiales has suggested Seville could be an alternative option. "It is true that there are serious difficulties in Bilbao and with this in mind, it is UEFA who has to decide," he said.

UEFA set to announce Champions League reforms and decide on Euro 2020 hosts

Chelsea ended Manchester City's quest for a historic quadruple of trophies as Hakim Ziyech's goal earned a 1-0 win to take the Blues into the FA Cup final on Saturday.

A damaging day for City also saw them lose Kevin De Bruyne to an ankle injury just over a week away from the League Cup final, where they face Tottenham, and the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Chelsea were good value for another impressive win under Thomas Tuchel and will be favourites for the German's first silverware in English football when they face Leicester or Southampton on May 15.

"It was a very strong performance. I'm very happy and proud," said Tuchel, who has lost just twice in 19 games since replacing Frank Lampard in January.

"We took the opportunity to show up on the highest level and see how we are. You can only win against City if you have everybody on the top level."&nbsp;

Tuchel could land an even bigger prize in the Champions League by the end of his first five months in charge.

Chelsea and City could meet again in the final in Istanbul next month should they see off Real Madrid and PSG respectively in the last four and Tuchel's men proved they can get the better of the runaway Premier League leaders despite a 20-point gap between the sides in the table.

The physical demands of City's bid for a clean sweep of trophies was shown as Pep Guardiola made eight changes from the side that beat Borussia Dortmund in midweek with goalscorers Phil Foden and Riyad Mahrez among those rotated.

A much-changed side looked disjointed and Chelsea took advantage in a bright start.

Timo Werner's cross was swept home by Ziyech after just six minutes, but the goal was ruled out for offside against the German international.

<h2>- De Bruyne concern -</h2>

City got to half-time without any damage on the scoreline, but suffered a potentially huge blow to their hopes of still clinching a treble of trophies early in the second-half.

Just 11 days before the first leg of the PSG tie, De Bruyne appeared to roll his ankle in a challenge with N'Golo Kante and was replaced by Foden.

"It doesn't look good, he has pain," said Guardiola. "Tomorrow we will do a test."

City were still reeling from the loss of the Belgian midfielder when they were finally caught out by the Chelsea counter-attack.

Guardiola's decision to retain Zack Steffen in goal for domestic cup competitions backfired as the American was caught in no man's land when Werner raced in behind and once again squared for Ziyech to roll into an empty net.

"In these kind of games, the margin is so tight and the coin fell down on their side," added Guardiola.&nbsp;

Steffen made some measure of amends moments later to deny Ziyech a second when the Moroccan was clean through.

City took until the final 20 minutes to get going, but their best chance of sending the game to extra-time came from a corner as Ruben Dias headed over from close range.

Instead, it was Chelsea who found the net again through Christian Pulisic in stoppage time only for the offside flag to again come to City's rescue.

But there was no saving a bid for history for Guardiola's men as they cannot now better Manchester United's treble of Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup from 1998/99.

Chelsea ended Manchester City's quest for a historic quadruple of trophies as Hakim Ziyech's goal earned a 1-0 win to take the Blues into the FA Cup final on Saturday.

Chelsea ended Manchester City's quest for a historic quadruple of trophies as Hakim Ziyech's goal earned a 1-0 win to take the Blues into the FA Cup final on Saturday. A damaging day for City also saw them lose Kevin De Bruyne to an ankle injury just over a week away from the League Cup final, where they face Tottenham, and the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain. Chelsea were good value for another impressive win under Thomas Tuchel and will be favourites for the German's first silverware in English football when they face Leicester or Southampton on May 15. "It was a very strong performance. I'm very happy and proud," said Tuchel, who has lost just twice in 19 games since replacing Frank Lampard in January. "We took the opportunity to show up on the highest level and see how we are. You can only win against City if you have everybody on the top level." Tuchel could land an even bigger prize in the Champions League by the end of his first five months in charge. Chelsea and City could meet again in the final in Istanbul next month should they see off Real Madrid and PSG respectively in the last four and Tuchel's men proved they can get the better of the runaway Premier League leaders despite a 20-point gap between the sides in the table. The physical demands of City's bid for a clean sweep of trophies was shown as Pep Guardiola made eight changes from the side that beat Borussia Dortmund in midweek with goalscorers Phil Foden and Riyad Mahrez among those rotated. A much-changed side looked disjointed and Chelsea took advantage in a bright start. Timo Werner's cross was swept home by Ziyech after just six minutes, but the goal was ruled out for offside against the German international. - De Bruyne concern - City got to half-time without any damage on the scoreline, but suffered a potentially huge blow to their hopes of still clinching a treble of trophies early in the second-half. Just 11 days before the first leg of the PSG tie, De Bruyne appeared to roll his ankle in a challenge with N'Golo Kante and was replaced by Foden. "It doesn't look good, he has pain," said Guardiola. "Tomorrow we will do a test." City were still reeling from the loss of the Belgian midfielder when they were finally caught out by the Chelsea counter-attack. Guardiola's decision to retain Zack Steffen in goal for domestic cup competitions backfired as the American was caught in no man's land when Werner raced in behind and once again squared for Ziyech to roll into an empty net. "In these kind of games, the margin is so tight and the coin fell down on their side," added Guardiola. Steffen made some measure of amends moments later to deny Ziyech a second when the Moroccan was clean through. City took until the final 20 minutes to get going, but their best chance of sending the game to extra-time came from a corner as Ruben Dias headed over from close range. Instead, it was Chelsea who found the net again through Christian Pulisic in stoppage time only for the offside flag to again come to City's rescue. But there was no saving a bid for history for Guardiola's men as they cannot now better Manchester United's treble of Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup from 1998/99.

Chelsea end Man City's quadruple quest to reach FA Cup final

Steve Bruce's side had squandered a two-goal lead in the closing stages at St James' Park, but Willock came off the bench to snatch a priceless winner.

The Magpies are now nine points clear of the relegation zone with just six games remaining in a turbulent season on Tyneside.

Newcastle had taken control in the first-half thanks to Issa Diop's own goal and a blunder from West Ham keeper Lukasz Fabianski for Joelinton's strike.

West Ham also lost a man in the aftermath of the opening goal as defender Craig Dawson was sent off for two bookings.

But the Hammers set up a tense finale when Diop got one back before Jesse Lingard equalised with a penalty 10 minutes from full-time.

On-loan Arsenal midfielder Willock settled a pulsating encounter with his thunderous header to take Newcastle to the brink of survival.

Staying up would be an impressive achievement for Bruce, who has battled with dressing room rifts and distracting takeover talk.

"I'm not going to take anything for granted. I've always said it's the accumulation of points, and 35, in my opinion, is not enough, so you won't get me jumping and hollering at the moment," Bruce said.

"We've still got six games to play. Can we beat last year's points tally of 44? We'll try our utmost."

The defeat was a big blow for West Ham as they chase an unexpected place in next season's Champions League.

David Moyes' side remain fourth, but Chelsea are just one point behind with a game in hand, while fifth-placed Liverpool would go above the Hammers if they beat Leeds on Monday.

"I wouldn't say it was a chance lost, it was an opportunity for us to pick up three points," Moyes said.

"We like talking about the Champions League, we love the sound of that when everybody says it, but we're realistic."

<h2>- Sheff Utd fate sealed -</h2>

Newcastle's win meant Sheffield United had to avoid defeat to prevent their fate from a miserable season being sealed.

Wolves have also taken a step back this season after losing Raul Jimenez for most of the campaign due to a fractured skull.

January signing Willian Jose has struggled to replace the Mexico forward, but finally got his first Wolves goal by sweeping home Adama Traore's cross on the hour mark.

"If you pick a game to typify this season, it was that. We were on top, missed chances and this league won't give you a second chance," said caretaker United boss Paul Heckingbottom.

"There has to be a mentality to get straight back. Everyone wants to play in this league. You need to get promoted and that's everyone's driving force."

Victory takes Nuno Espirito Santo's men beyond the 40-point mark and up to 12th as they are now safe from the drop.

By contrast, Sheffield United now face a rebuild in the Championship with the club in crisis on and off the field.

United announced on Saturday that Saudi chairman Prince Musaad Bin Khalid Al Saud has resigned for personal reasons.

Last month, Chris Wilder left as manager&nbsp;after five years in the job, during which he guided them from League One to the top-flight.

Steve Bruce's side had squandered a two-goal lead in the closing stages at St James' Park, but Willock came off the bench to snatch a priceless winner. The Magpies are now nine points clear of the relegation zone with just six games remaining in a turbulent season on Tyneside.

Steve Bruce's side had squandered a two-goal lead in the closing stages at St James' Park, but Willock came off the bench to snatch a priceless winner. The Magpies are now nine points clear of the relegation zone with just six games remaining in a turbulent season on Tyneside. Newcastle had taken control in the first-half thanks to Issa Diop's own goal and a blunder from West Ham keeper Lukasz Fabianski for Joelinton's strike. West Ham also lost a man in the aftermath of the opening goal as defender Craig Dawson was sent off for two bookings. But the Hammers set up a tense finale when Diop got one back before Jesse Lingard equalised with a penalty 10 minutes from full-time. On-loan Arsenal midfielder Willock settled a pulsating encounter with his thunderous header to take Newcastle to the brink of survival. Staying up would be an impressive achievement for Bruce, who has battled with dressing room rifts and distracting takeover talk. "I'm not going to take anything for granted. I've always said it's the accumulation of points, and 35, in my opinion, is not enough, so you won't get me jumping and hollering at the moment," Bruce said. "We've still got six games to play. Can we beat last year's points tally of 44? We'll try our utmost." The defeat was a big blow for West Ham as they chase an unexpected place in next season's Champions League. David Moyes' side remain fourth, but Chelsea are just one point behind with a game in hand, while fifth-placed Liverpool would go above the Hammers if they beat Leeds on Monday. "I wouldn't say it was a chance lost, it was an opportunity for us to pick up three points," Moyes said. "We like talking about the Champions League, we love the sound of that when everybody says it, but we're realistic." - Sheff Utd fate sealed - Newcastle's win meant Sheffield United had to avoid defeat to prevent their fate from a miserable season being sealed. Wolves have also taken a step back this season after losing Raul Jimenez for most of the campaign due to a fractured skull. January signing Willian Jose has struggled to replace the Mexico forward, but finally got his first Wolves goal by sweeping home Adama Traore's cross on the hour mark. "If you pick a game to typify this season, it was that. We were on top, missed chances and this league won't give you a second chance," said caretaker United boss Paul Heckingbottom. "There has to be a mentality to get straight back. Everyone wants to play in this league. You need to get promoted and that's everyone's driving force." Victory takes Nuno Espirito Santo's men beyond the 40-point mark and up to 12th as they are now safe from the drop. By contrast, Sheffield United now face a rebuild in the Championship with the club in crisis on and off the field. United announced on Saturday that Saudi chairman Prince Musaad Bin Khalid Al Saud has resigned for personal reasons. Last month, Chris Wilder left as manager after five years in the job, during which he guided them from League One to the top-flight.

Newcastle dent West Ham's top-four challenge, Sheff Utd relegated

Lionel Messi scored twice, including a stunning solo goal, as Barcelona blew away Athletic Bilbao to win the Copa del Rey on Saturday, consigning their opponents to a second final defeat in two weeks.&nbsp;

The cup was won and lost in a whirlwind 12 minutes in Seville, which saw Barca score four times to clinch an emphatic 4-0 victory, with Messi at his devastating best.

It remains to be seen if his seventh Copa del Rey triumph is the last trophy Messi lifts in Barcelona colours but if this was to be a final flourish, the 33-year-old crafted a fitting farewell.&nbsp;

"It's very special to be captain of this team where I have spent my whole life and very special to be able to lift this cup," Messi said.

His first goal, and Barca's third, started with the Argentinian in his own half before a charging run down the right and a surge forward into the penalty area gave him the chance for a simple finish.&nbsp;

With the club's new president Joan Laporta in the crowd, Ronald Koeman's first title as Barcelona coach should also significantly boost his chances of remaining in charge beyond the summer.&nbsp;

"To win a title is important for me," Koeman admitted afterwards.

Yet Laporta was noticeably evasive when asked about Koeman's future.&nbsp;

"He is doing well," he said.

Koeman took over a team at rock bottom, humiliated by an historic loss to Bayern Munich and wounded by the attempts of Messi to leave the club for free.&nbsp;

But this 31st Copa del Rey success for the club is a testament to progress made and Koeman will hope it not only helps convince Messi to stay but gives Barca momentum now in a neck-and-neck title race in La Liga.

"Despite the changes at the club and the young players, at Barca you have to always fight for trophies," Koeman said.&nbsp;

"We have the first one and now we are going to fight to the last game in La Liga."

Gerard Pique said it felt like the club had been "reset".&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Turned it around' -</h2>

"Sometimes you fall down and you have to get up," Pique said. "It has been a difficult year but the team has turned it around."

Messi was sent off when Athletic Bilbao beat Barcelona, also at the La Cartuja, in January to win the Spanish Super Cup but they never looked like pulling off a repeat.&nbsp;

After Athletic lost to their Basque rivals Real Sociedad in last year's postponed final only two weeks ago, lifting themselves for another showpiece in the same stadium and against a tougher opponent was always going to be a big ask.&nbsp;

"In both finals we played well below the level that we're capable of," said Athletic coach Marcelino Garcia Toral.&nbsp;

Barcelona were almost ahead after four minutes as Sergio Busquets played in Messi, who rolled back for Frenkie de Jong but his sidefooted finish came back off the far post.&nbsp;

Sergino Dest dragged wide while Inigo Martinez had Athletic's best chance but as he stretched for the bouncing ball, he could only poke over.

Athletic seemed to have played their way into the match before half-time but Barcelona came out with renewed vigour, with Unai Simon making two brilliant saves to deny Antoine Griezmann and then Busquets, both from close range.&nbsp;

But when the resistance gave way, it became a collapse, with goals scored in the 60th, 63rd, 68th and 72nd minutes to leave Athletic's hopes in tatters.&nbsp;

First, Messi slipped in Dest down the right and his cross was diverted in by Griezmann before the second came from the opposite flank, Jordi Alba curled in a cross for De Jong to nod in.&nbsp;

The third was a spectacular from Messi, who started the move in his own half, leaping over one challenge and dodging another.&nbsp;

He took the ball back from Dest and drove down the right wing, away from three opponents and inside.&nbsp;

Messi twice played off De Jong, the second time after motoring forward into the penalty area, where he darted between two last Athletic defenders and slid the finish into the far corner.&nbsp;

His second, and Barca's fourth, was more straight-forward, Alba pulling a cross back for the Argentinian to tuck under a weak right hand from Simon and inside the post. For Athletic, there was no way back.

Lionel Messi scored twice, including a stunning solo goal, as Barcelona blew away Athletic Bilbao to win the Copa del Rey on Saturday, consigning their opponents to a second final defeat in two weeks.

Lionel Messi scored twice, including a stunning solo goal, as Barcelona blew away Athletic Bilbao to win the Copa del Rey on Saturday, consigning their opponents to a second final defeat in two weeks. The cup was won and lost in a whirlwind 12 minutes in Seville, which saw Barca score four times to clinch an emphatic 4-0 victory, with Messi at his devastating best. It remains to be seen if his seventh Copa del Rey triumph is the last trophy Messi lifts in Barcelona colours but if this was to be a final flourish, the 33-year-old crafted a fitting farewell. "It's very special to be captain of this team where I have spent my whole life and very special to be able to lift this cup," Messi said. His first goal, and Barca's third, started with the Argentinian in his own half before a charging run down the right and a surge forward into the penalty area gave him the chance for a simple finish. With the club's new president Joan Laporta in the crowd, Ronald Koeman's first title as Barcelona coach should also significantly boost his chances of remaining in charge beyond the summer. "To win a title is important for me," Koeman admitted afterwards. Yet Laporta was noticeably evasive when asked about Koeman's future. "He is doing well," he said. Koeman took over a team at rock bottom, humiliated by an historic loss to Bayern Munich and wounded by the attempts of Messi to leave the club for free. But this 31st Copa del Rey success for the club is a testament to progress made and Koeman will hope it not only helps convince Messi to stay but gives Barca momentum now in a neck-and-neck title race in La Liga. "Despite the changes at the club and the young players, at Barca you have to always fight for trophies," Koeman said. "We have the first one and now we are going to fight to the last game in La Liga." Gerard Pique said it felt like the club had been "reset". - 'Turned it around' - "Sometimes you fall down and you have to get up," Pique said. "It has been a difficult year but the team has turned it around." Messi was sent off when Athletic Bilbao beat Barcelona, also at the La Cartuja, in January to win the Spanish Super Cup but they never looked like pulling off a repeat. After Athletic lost to their Basque rivals Real Sociedad in last year's postponed final only two weeks ago, lifting themselves for another showpiece in the same stadium and against a tougher opponent was always going to be a big ask. "In both finals we played well below the level that we're capable of," said Athletic coach Marcelino Garcia Toral. Barcelona were almost ahead after four minutes as Sergio Busquets played in Messi, who rolled back for Frenkie de Jong but his sidefooted finish came back off the far post. Sergino Dest dragged wide while Inigo Martinez had Athletic's best chance but as he stretched for the bouncing ball, he could only poke over. Athletic seemed to have played their way into the match before half-time but Barcelona came out with renewed vigour, with Unai Simon making two brilliant saves to deny Antoine Griezmann and then Busquets, both from close range. But when the resistance gave way, it became a collapse, with goals scored in the 60th, 63rd, 68th and 72nd minutes to leave Athletic's hopes in tatters. First, Messi slipped in Dest down the right and his cross was diverted in by Griezmann before the second came from the opposite flank, Jordi Alba curled in a cross for De Jong to nod in. The third was a spectacular from Messi, who started the move in his own half, leaping over one challenge and dodging another. He took the ball back from Dest and drove down the right wing, away from three opponents and inside. Messi twice played off De Jong, the second time after motoring forward into the penalty area, where he darted between two last Athletic defenders and slid the finish into the far corner. His second, and Barca's fourth, was more straight-forward, Alba pulling a cross back for the Argentinian to tuck under a weak right hand from Simon and inside the post. For Athletic, there was no way back.

Sensational Messi scores twice as Barca beat Athletic to win Copa del Rey

Top English and Italian clubs were strongly linked again on Sunday to a breakaway European Superleague, a rival competition to UEFA`s Champions League which could have massive ramifications for the game. 
 
UEFA is due to sign off on its own plans for an expanded and restructured Champions League on Monday but less than 24 hours before the meeting reports emerged of a new attempt at creating a rival competition involving the continent`s top clubs. 
 
The board of Italy`s Serie A league held an emergency meeting on the threatened Super League. Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan have been linked with the breakaway in media reports. 
 
A Serie A source told Reuters that the league had recently become aware of the plans for a breakaway project. 
 
Shortly after the Serie A meeting finished, The Times newspaper reported that five of England`s top clubs had signed up to the plans for a breakaway. 
 
The paper said Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur have agreed to join the new league. 
 
The only member of the "big six" not to have signed up is Manchester City, the paper said, citing sources with knowledge of the development. Other media reports said City were part of the project. 
 
Neither City, nor any of the other Premier League clubs immediately responded to requests for comment. 
 
20-TEAM LEAGUE 
 
There have been reports of a breakaway for a number of years and they returned in January with several media reported a document had been produced outlining the plans for a 20-team league including Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona. 
 
In October, then Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu said the club had accepted a proposal to join a breakaway league. 
 
In January, Spanish league president Javier Tebas told Reuters that Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester United and Liverpool had been the driving forces behind the project, adding that it was vehemently opposed by other clubs in Spain and worldwide. 
 
Those reports led FIFA and UEFA to warn that they would ban any players involved in a breakaway from playing in the World Cup or European Championship. 
 
The move is a surprise after the European Club Association (ECA), which represents 246 of the continent`s leading clubs, gave their backing to UEFA`s reforms which are on the agenda for Monday`s executive committee meeting. 
 
UEFA has proposed an increase to 36 from 32 teams, and an overhaul of the group stage into a single table rather than the current groups of four clubs. 
 
Teams would play 10 matches each in the group stage rather than the six they currently play and a playoff round would also be introduced before the last 16. 
 
But while there has been a broad consensus and those reforms, the ECA made a late push to have changes to the governance and control of the competition. 
 
Manchester United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward told investors last month that he expected such an outcome. 
 
"We look forward to seeing the full final proposal from UEFA that we anticipate will include a greater involvement of clubs in the governance and control of the competitions," Woodward said. 
 
The ECA is already involved in UEFA’s club competition structures, including the second-tier Europa League through a joint company, known as "UEFA Club Competition SA" or UCC. 
 
UCC is a subsidiary company of UEFA where half the members of the board are appointed by the governing body and the other half by the ECA. 
 
It was created following the signing of a five-year agreement between UEFA and the ECA in 2018, a deal which will run out before the proposed new Champions League format begins in 2024.

Top English and Italian clubs were strongly linked again on Sunday to a breakaway European Superleague, a rival competition to UEFA`s Champions League which could have massive ramifications for the game.

Top English and Italian clubs were strongly linked again on Sunday to a breakaway European Superleague, a rival competition to UEFA`s Champions League which could have massive ramifications for the game. UEFA is due to sign off on its own plans for an expanded and restructured Champions League on Monday but less than 24 hours before the meeting reports emerged of a new attempt at creating a rival competition involving the continent`s top clubs. The board of Italy`s Serie A league held an emergency meeting on the threatened Super League. Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan have been linked with the breakaway in media reports. A Serie A source told Reuters that the league had recently become aware of the plans for a breakaway project. Shortly after the Serie A meeting finished, The Times newspaper reported that five of England`s top clubs had signed up to the plans for a breakaway. The paper said Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur have agreed to join the new league. The only member of the "big six" not to have signed up is Manchester City, the paper said, citing sources with knowledge of the development. Other media reports said City were part of the project. Neither City, nor any of the other Premier League clubs immediately responded to requests for comment. 20-TEAM LEAGUE There have been reports of a breakaway for a number of years and they returned in January with several media reported a document had been produced outlining the plans for a 20-team league including Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona. In October, then Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu said the club had accepted a proposal to join a breakaway league. In January, Spanish league president Javier Tebas told Reuters that Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester United and Liverpool had been the driving forces behind the project, adding that it was vehemently opposed by other clubs in Spain and worldwide. Those reports led FIFA and UEFA to warn that they would ban any players involved in a breakaway from playing in the World Cup or European Championship. The move is a surprise after the European Club Association (ECA), which represents 246 of the continent`s leading clubs, gave their backing to UEFA`s reforms which are on the agenda for Monday`s executive committee meeting. UEFA has proposed an increase to 36 from 32 teams, and an overhaul of the group stage into a single table rather than the current groups of four clubs. Teams would play 10 matches each in the group stage rather than the six they currently play and a playoff round would also be introduced before the last 16. But while there has been a broad consensus and those reforms, the ECA made a late push to have changes to the governance and control of the competition. Manchester United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward told investors last month that he expected such an outcome. "We look forward to seeing the full final proposal from UEFA that we anticipate will include a greater involvement of clubs in the governance and control of the competitions," Woodward said. The ECA is already involved in UEFA’s club competition structures, including the second-tier Europa League through a joint company, known as "UEFA Club Competition SA" or UCC. UCC is a subsidiary company of UEFA where half the members of the board are appointed by the governing body and the other half by the ECA. It was created following the signing of a five-year agreement between UEFA and the ECA in 2018, a deal which will run out before the proposed new Champions League format begins in 2024.

Breakaway Super League threat re-emerges hours before UEFA vote

Qatar is in talks with coronavirus vaccine makers to ensure all fans attending the 2022 World Cup in the country have been vaccinated, the foreign minister said Friday.

The Gulf nation is facing a resurgence of virus cases and deaths despite progress in its mass vaccination programme, forcing authorities to impose a nationwide lockdown.

"We have been negotiating and talking to the vaccination providers on how we can make sure that everyone attending the World Cup is vaccinated," Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said.&nbsp;

"Right now there are programs under development to provide vaccination to all the attendees of the World Cup," he added during the Raisina Dialogue, a virtual event hosted by the Observer Research Foundation.

"We will be able, hopefully, to host a COVID-free event. We also hope that globally the pandemic will start to go down and disappear."&nbsp;

Globally no one vaccine certification system has yet been universally accepted or recognised, though the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Travel Pass has gained popularity amongst Gulf airlines including Qatar Airways.

As of Friday, 194,930 of Qatar's 2.75 million people have tested positive for the coronavirus since the pandemic began, with 21,965 currently active cases -- almost one percent of the population.

Over 26,000 vaccine jabs were administered on Friday, bringing the total to 1,209,648 doses, according to official data.

One in five of the 367 deaths Qatar has suffered since the start of the pandemic has been reported this month with officials blaming the more virulent British variant.&nbsp;

Last week Qatar announced the reimposition of strict lockdown measures, banning most indoor activities except retail and work in an effort to contain the virus.

Qatar has defied soaring coronavirus case numbers to stage several high profile global sporting events in recent months, serving as a test bed for different restrictions but also suffering high-profile infection cases.

The wealthy Gulf nation has bucked the trend of more established sporting nations which have cancelled or postponed a slew of leading events, instead hosting soccer, tennis, motorcycling, judo and beach volleyball since January.

FIFA boss Gianni Infantino has previously said that measures to contain the coronavirus will need to be taken during the 2022 tournament but did not given details.

"Maybe some precautionary measures have to be taken," he told AFP during the FIFA Club World Cup in Doha in February.

As well as saying unspecified distancing measures could still be in place for next year's World Cup, Infantino suggested FIFA could "concretely" help travelling fans from countries with patchy vaccine rollouts.

"We need to see how the situation looks by then. It's very difficult to foresee now.

"It will take a little bit of time, and we have two years of time to come back to some sort of normality."

Qatar is in talks with coronavirus vaccine makers to ensure all fans attending the 2022 World Cup in the country have been vaccinated, the foreign minister said Friday.

Qatar is in talks with coronavirus vaccine makers to ensure all fans attending the 2022 World Cup in the country have been vaccinated, the foreign minister said Friday. The Gulf nation is facing a resurgence of virus cases and deaths despite progress in its mass vaccination programme, forcing authorities to impose a nationwide lockdown. "We have been negotiating and talking to the vaccination providers on how we can make sure that everyone attending the World Cup is vaccinated," Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said. "Right now there are programs under development to provide vaccination to all the attendees of the World Cup," he added during the Raisina Dialogue, a virtual event hosted by the Observer Research Foundation. "We will be able, hopefully, to host a COVID-free event. We also hope that globally the pandemic will start to go down and disappear." Globally no one vaccine certification system has yet been universally accepted or recognised, though the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Travel Pass has gained popularity amongst Gulf airlines including Qatar Airways. As of Friday, 194,930 of Qatar's 2.75 million people have tested positive for the coronavirus since the pandemic began, with 21,965 currently active cases -- almost one percent of the population. Over 26,000 vaccine jabs were administered on Friday, bringing the total to 1,209,648 doses, according to official data. One in five of the 367 deaths Qatar has suffered since the start of the pandemic has been reported this month with officials blaming the more virulent British variant. Last week Qatar announced the reimposition of strict lockdown measures, banning most indoor activities except retail and work in an effort to contain the virus. Qatar has defied soaring coronavirus case numbers to stage several high profile global sporting events in recent months, serving as a test bed for different restrictions but also suffering high-profile infection cases. The wealthy Gulf nation has bucked the trend of more established sporting nations which have cancelled or postponed a slew of leading events, instead hosting soccer, tennis, motorcycling, judo and beach volleyball since January. FIFA boss Gianni Infantino has previously said that measures to contain the coronavirus will need to be taken during the 2022 tournament but did not given details. "Maybe some precautionary measures have to be taken," he told AFP during the FIFA Club World Cup in Doha in February. As well as saying unspecified distancing measures could still be in place for next year's World Cup, Infantino suggested FIFA could "concretely" help travelling fans from countries with patchy vaccine rollouts. "We need to see how the situation looks by then. It's very difficult to foresee now. "It will take a little bit of time, and we have two years of time to come back to some sort of normality."

Qatar seeking virus jabs for all World Cup visitors

Thomas Tuchel admits Chelsea still lag behind Manchester City as he prepares to face the runaway Premier League leaders in an FA Cup semi-final but vowed to hunt down Europe's "benchmark" club next season.

Chelsea face City at Wembley on Saturday, with Tuchel chasing a maiden managerial win over Pep Guardiola, whose side are still on course for an unprecedented quadruple.

The Blues' German boss believes Chelsea still have long-term ground to make up on City but has exhorted his players to close that gap just for 90 minutes.

"We have to accept that there is a gap between us and Manchester City," said Tuchel, who replaced Frank Lampard in the Stamford Bridge hot seat in January,

"If you look at the fixture in the Premier League and the fixtures in the last years we have to accept this. And it's important that we accept this without making ourselves too small.

"So from next year on, from day one of next season we will hunt them, we will try to close the gap between us," added Tuchel, whose side are currently 20 points adrift of City in the Premier League.

"And this the benchmark. For me in Europe there are two teams who are the benchmark, there is Bayern Munich and Manchester City."

Tuchel said his side, who have lost just twice since he took charge, had the belief they could close the gap for one game.

"I arrive happy to compete against the benchmark in England and Europe," he said.

"We want the momentum of football on our side, and to play at the top level it's not to force things, and we'll need a bit of luck."

Former Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain boss Tuchel has taken on Guardiola five times and remains winless against the City manager, whom he could also face in the Champions League final.

He revealed the Catalan had had a major effect on his coaching style, conceding he was glued to the screen during Guardiola's Barcelona tenure.

"He's a huge influence on me because when he was coach at Barcelona I didn't have the chance to know him personally, but I was watching almost every game," he said.

"I was very impressed by the way they made success happen, by the style they were playing, all the academy guys, the offensive ball possession.

"And what was maybe most impressive about this team was the mentality and how they defended when they lost the ball."

Thomas Tuchel admits Chelsea still lag behind Manchester City as he prepares to face the runaway Premier League leaders in an FA Cup semi-final but vowed to hunt down Europe's "benchmark" club next season.

Thomas Tuchel admits Chelsea still lag behind Manchester City as he prepares to face the runaway Premier League leaders in an FA Cup semi-final but vowed to hunt down Europe's "benchmark" club next season. Chelsea face City at Wembley on Saturday, with Tuchel chasing a maiden managerial win over Pep Guardiola, whose side are still on course for an unprecedented quadruple. The Blues' German boss believes Chelsea still have long-term ground to make up on City but has exhorted his players to close that gap just for 90 minutes. "We have to accept that there is a gap between us and Manchester City," said Tuchel, who replaced Frank Lampard in the Stamford Bridge hot seat in January, "If you look at the fixture in the Premier League and the fixtures in the last years we have to accept this. And it's important that we accept this without making ourselves too small. "So from next year on, from day one of next season we will hunt them, we will try to close the gap between us," added Tuchel, whose side are currently 20 points adrift of City in the Premier League. "And this the benchmark. For me in Europe there are two teams who are the benchmark, there is Bayern Munich and Manchester City." Tuchel said his side, who have lost just twice since he took charge, had the belief they could close the gap for one game. "I arrive happy to compete against the benchmark in England and Europe," he said. "We want the momentum of football on our side, and to play at the top level it's not to force things, and we'll need a bit of luck." Former Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain boss Tuchel has taken on Guardiola five times and remains winless against the City manager, whom he could also face in the Champions League final. He revealed the Catalan had had a major effect on his coaching style, conceding he was glued to the screen during Guardiola's Barcelona tenure. "He's a huge influence on me because when he was coach at Barcelona I didn't have the chance to know him personally, but I was watching almost every game," he said. "I was very impressed by the way they made success happen, by the style they were playing, all the academy guys, the offensive ball possession. "And what was maybe most impressive about this team was the mentality and how they defended when they lost the ball."

Chelsea's Tuchel vows to hunt down Man City ahead of FA Cup clash

Rafael Nadal's bid for a 12th Monte Carlo Masters title was shattered by Russia's Andrey Rublev, who swept to a 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 quarter-final win on Friday with the great Spaniard admitting his serve was "a disaster".

Nadal, bidding to reach the semi-finals of a Masters for the 75th time, followed world number one Novak Djokovic, who was beaten in the third round, out of the tournament.

"Today was one of those days that my serve was a disaster," said world number three Nadal.

"It's always sad to lose here. I missed an opportunity to start the clay court season in the right way. But that's it. It's not the moment to complain.

"The only thing that I can do is go to Barcelona (where he plays next week) and keep practicing, try to fix the things that didn't work well."

Despite Friday's setback, 34-year-old Nadal will still be favourite to capture a 13th Roland Garros title in June and record-setting 21st major.

"For Rafa, it must be incredibly difficult to play with this pressure of always having to win," said Rublev who also made the Miami Masters semi-finals at the start of April.&nbsp;

"I'm shocked to see the level which he can reach despite this pressure. It's much easier to play when you have nothing to lose."

It was only the second time in 16 appearances in Monte Carlo that Nadal had failed to make the semi-finals.

World number eight Rublev will face unseeded Casper Ruud, who put out defending champion Fabio Fognini, for a place in the final.

The other semi-final will feature Greek fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas against Britain's Dan Evans, the man who shocked Djokovic.

Tsitsipas is now the highest seed left after world number two Daniil Medvedev was forced to withdraw due to a positive Covid-19 test.

Rublev is no stranger to taking out the big names -- back in 2019, he stunned Roger Federer at Cincinnati in just 62 minutes.

On Friday, the 23-year-old won the first set in 38 minutes but Nadal then pocketed the last four games of the 73-minute second set to level the contest.

<h2>- Rublev 'deserved it' -</h2>

In the decider, Rublev held his nerve, breaking the Spaniard three times on his way to a famous win, his first in three meetings with Nadal.

"He played well, he deserved it more than me," added Nadal.

"But you can't expect win against a player like him losing my serve I don't know how many times -- six, seven times? It's too much."

Tsitsipas advanced to the last-four when Alejandro Davidovich withdrew after losing the first set 7-5.

Tsitsipas, the world number five, will play his sixth Masters semi-final, and his first in the principality, against Evans, who battled past Belgian David Goffin 5-7,&nbsp;6-3,&nbsp;6-4.

Struggling with an injury to his left thigh, Spaniard Davidovich tried an underarm serve when facing set point.&nbsp;

Tsitsipas pounced to hit a winning backhand return with his opponent quitting after dropping the opener 7-5.&nbsp;

"I noticed he was hurt. His leg was hurting. But I didn't want to think about it, I tried to pretend he wasn't injured and keep playing as I was doing," said Tsitsipas.&nbsp;

Evans edged Goffin after the Belgian made 47 unforced errors, including a final forehand on match point, to win.&nbsp;

"I played good today. I felt a bit more pressure to not just win yesterday and give a bad performance today," said Evans, 30.

Unseeded Ruud won 6-4, 6-3 against 15th seeded Fognini, making the last four in Monte Carlo 24 years after his father Christian had reached the quarter-finals.

Rublev holds a 3-0 record against Ruud, which includes back-to-back clay-court wins at Hamburg in 2019 and 2020.

"I've gained good confidence from this week and I've beaten good players," Ruud said.&nbsp;

"I have to try to find a way to believe that I can win."

Rafael Nadal's bid for a 12th Monte Carlo Masters title was shattered by Russia's Andrey Rublev, who swept to a 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 quarter-final win on Friday with the great Spaniard admitting his serve was "a disaster".

Rafael Nadal's bid for a 12th Monte Carlo Masters title was shattered by Russia's Andrey Rublev, who swept to a 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 quarter-final win on Friday with the great Spaniard admitting his serve was "a disaster". Nadal, bidding to reach the semi-finals of a Masters for the 75th time, followed world number one Novak Djokovic, who was beaten in the third round, out of the tournament. "Today was one of those days that my serve was a disaster," said world number three Nadal. "It's always sad to lose here. I missed an opportunity to start the clay court season in the right way. But that's it. It's not the moment to complain. "The only thing that I can do is go to Barcelona (where he plays next week) and keep practicing, try to fix the things that didn't work well." Despite Friday's setback, 34-year-old Nadal will still be favourite to capture a 13th Roland Garros title in June and record-setting 21st major. "For Rafa, it must be incredibly difficult to play with this pressure of always having to win," said Rublev who also made the Miami Masters semi-finals at the start of April. "I'm shocked to see the level which he can reach despite this pressure. It's much easier to play when you have nothing to lose." It was only the second time in 16 appearances in Monte Carlo that Nadal had failed to make the semi-finals. World number eight Rublev will face unseeded Casper Ruud, who put out defending champion Fabio Fognini, for a place in the final. The other semi-final will feature Greek fourth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas against Britain's Dan Evans, the man who shocked Djokovic. Tsitsipas is now the highest seed left after world number two Daniil Medvedev was forced to withdraw due to a positive Covid-19 test. Rublev is no stranger to taking out the big names -- back in 2019, he stunned Roger Federer at Cincinnati in just 62 minutes. On Friday, the 23-year-old won the first set in 38 minutes but Nadal then pocketed the last four games of the 73-minute second set to level the contest. - Rublev 'deserved it' - In the decider, Rublev held his nerve, breaking the Spaniard three times on his way to a famous win, his first in three meetings with Nadal. "He played well, he deserved it more than me," added Nadal. "But you can't expect win against a player like him losing my serve I don't know how many times -- six, seven times? It's too much." Tsitsipas advanced to the last-four when Alejandro Davidovich withdrew after losing the first set 7-5. Tsitsipas, the world number five, will play his sixth Masters semi-final, and his first in the principality, against Evans, who battled past Belgian David Goffin 5-7, 6-3, 6-4. Struggling with an injury to his left thigh, Spaniard Davidovich tried an underarm serve when facing set point. Tsitsipas pounced to hit a winning backhand return with his opponent quitting after dropping the opener 7-5. "I noticed he was hurt. His leg was hurting. But I didn't want to think about it, I tried to pretend he wasn't injured and keep playing as I was doing," said Tsitsipas. Evans edged Goffin after the Belgian made 47 unforced errors, including a final forehand on match point, to win. "I played good today. I felt a bit more pressure to not just win yesterday and give a bad performance today," said Evans, 30. Unseeded Ruud won 6-4, 6-3 against 15th seeded Fognini, making the last four in Monte Carlo 24 years after his father Christian had reached the quarter-finals. Rublev holds a 3-0 record against Ruud, which includes back-to-back clay-court wins at Hamburg in 2019 and 2020. "I've gained good confidence from this week and I've beaten good players," Ruud said. "I have to try to find a way to believe that I can win."

'Disaster' as Nadal's bid for 12th Monte Carlo title ended by Rublev

England forward Harry Kane suffered a worrying ankle injury ahead of next week's League Cup final after scoring twice in Tottenham Hotspur's 2-2 draw away to Everton in the Premier League on Friday.

Gylfi Sigurdsson also grabbed two goals for Everton in a result that did little for either side's European hopes.

Kane, expected to lead England's attack in this year's coronavirus delayed European Championships, went off in stoppage time towards the end of the match after rolling his ankle when challenged in the box at an Everton corner.

"It is too early to say something," Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho told Sky Sports when asked afterwards about Kane's injury.

"For him to leave the pitch with a few minutes to go is obviously because he felt something.&nbsp;

"Let me be optimistic and believe that he has time to recover. Let's see.

"It's obvious he's a very important player for us. I cannot say much or speculate."

Kane's 20th league goal of the season put Spurs ahead in the 27th minute at Goodison Park only for Sigurdsson to equalise soon afterwards from the penalty spot.

It was the reverse story in the second half, Sigurdsson getting his second in the 62nd minute before Kane levelled six minutes later.

Spurs remain seventh, five points off the top four having played one game more than West Ham.

Mourinho said of Kane's double: "It was great finishing.

"Two beautiful goals but not a surprise for the ones who see him do it every day in training."

Meanwhile, Mourinho had little time for Paul Pogba's recent criticism of his management style when he was in charge of Manchester United.

Pogba accused Mourinho of "going against players" and making them feel like "they don't exist any more."

But Mourinho, who made France midfielder Pogba the world's most expensive player when he brought him to Old Trafford in 2016, insisted Friday: "I would like to say that I couldn't care less what he says. I am not interested at all."

<h2>- 'Keep fighting' -</h2>

Everton were left a place and one point further back than Tottenham, but do have a game in hand on Mourinho's side.

"It was probably the best we played at home this season," said Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti.&nbsp;

"We were unlucky. We did easy mistakes and when you do mistakes against Harry Kane you are condemned.

"We have more difficulties to reach Europe but we have to keep fighting. We still have (the) possibility, playing like tonight."

After an uninspiring opening, Spurs broke the deadlock with their first effort on target.

Everton's Michael Keane missed Tanguy Ndombele's cross and in the process allowed Kane to control the ball and shoot into the bottom corner past England team-mate Jordan Pickford.

This was Kane's 20th goal of the Premier League season -- the fifth time in his career he had achieved the feat.

Only Alan Shearer (seven) and Sergio Agüero (six) have done so in more Premier League seasons.&nbsp;

But the Londoners' lead lasted barely four minutes, with Everton equalising after Sergio Reguilon charged into James Rodriguez and Sigurdsson beat Hugo Lloris from the penalty spot.

Lloris kept the game all square come half-time, however, by denying both Rodriguez and Richarlison with fine saves.

Spurs then squandered several chances to regain the lead and they were punished for their wastefulness when Iceland's Sigurdsson fired into the far corner following a pull-back from Seamus Coleman.

But Kane had his second goal when he pounced from close range after Everton's Mason Holgate and Keane collided in the Merseysiders' box.

England forward Harry Kane suffered a worrying ankle injury ahead of next week's League Cup final after scoring twice in Tottenham Hotspur's 2-2 draw away to Everton in the Premier League on Friday.

England forward Harry Kane suffered a worrying ankle injury ahead of next week's League Cup final after scoring twice in Tottenham Hotspur's 2-2 draw away to Everton in the Premier League on Friday. Gylfi Sigurdsson also grabbed two goals for Everton in a result that did little for either side's European hopes. Kane, expected to lead England's attack in this year's coronavirus delayed European Championships, went off in stoppage time towards the end of the match after rolling his ankle when challenged in the box at an Everton corner. "It is too early to say something," Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho told Sky Sports when asked afterwards about Kane's injury. "For him to leave the pitch with a few minutes to go is obviously because he felt something. "Let me be optimistic and believe that he has time to recover. Let's see. "It's obvious he's a very important player for us. I cannot say much or speculate." Kane's 20th league goal of the season put Spurs ahead in the 27th minute at Goodison Park only for Sigurdsson to equalise soon afterwards from the penalty spot. It was the reverse story in the second half, Sigurdsson getting his second in the 62nd minute before Kane levelled six minutes later. Spurs remain seventh, five points off the top four having played one game more than West Ham. Mourinho said of Kane's double: "It was great finishing. "Two beautiful goals but not a surprise for the ones who see him do it every day in training." Meanwhile, Mourinho had little time for Paul Pogba's recent criticism of his management style when he was in charge of Manchester United. Pogba accused Mourinho of "going against players" and making them feel like "they don't exist any more." But Mourinho, who made France midfielder Pogba the world's most expensive player when he brought him to Old Trafford in 2016, insisted Friday: "I would like to say that I couldn't care less what he says. I am not interested at all." - 'Keep fighting' - Everton were left a place and one point further back than Tottenham, but do have a game in hand on Mourinho's side. "It was probably the best we played at home this season," said Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti. "We were unlucky. We did easy mistakes and when you do mistakes against Harry Kane you are condemned. "We have more difficulties to reach Europe but we have to keep fighting. We still have (the) possibility, playing like tonight." After an uninspiring opening, Spurs broke the deadlock with their first effort on target. Everton's Michael Keane missed Tanguy Ndombele's cross and in the process allowed Kane to control the ball and shoot into the bottom corner past England team-mate Jordan Pickford. This was Kane's 20th goal of the Premier League season -- the fifth time in his career he had achieved the feat. Only Alan Shearer (seven) and Sergio Agüero (six) have done so in more Premier League seasons. But the Londoners' lead lasted barely four minutes, with Everton equalising after Sergio Reguilon charged into James Rodriguez and Sigurdsson beat Hugo Lloris from the penalty spot. Lloris kept the game all square come half-time, however, by denying both Rodriguez and Richarlison with fine saves. Spurs then squandered several chances to regain the lead and they were punished for their wastefulness when Iceland's Sigurdsson fired into the far corner following a pull-back from Seamus Coleman. But Kane had his second goal when he pounced from close range after Everton's Mason Holgate and Keane collided in the Merseysiders' box.

Ankle injury clouds Kane double as Spurs draw with Everton

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer said his team paid for missing several chances in the first leg after the German side's Champions League title defence ended with a loss on away goals to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.

Despite a 1-0 quarter-final second-leg victory at the Parc des Princes, Bayern were dumped out of Europe after a 3-3 aggregate draw.

"It wasn't tonight that saw us knocked out," Neuer said. "The 1-0 win here was deserved but it was the result in Munich (3-2 loss) which wasn't good. We were in a bad position at kick-off."

Bayern dominated for long periods over the tie, especially in the first leg when they had 31 attempts at the PSG goal but could only convert two of them without injured top-scorer Robert Lewandowski and winger Serge Gnabry.

"It was annoying to have missed so many chances in the first leg," added Neuer.

"Was Lewandowski missed? We missed all the players who weren't there tonight. Against a classy team like PSG, it's difficult.

"But the players who were on the pitch gave it their all."

Hansi Flick's Bayern will now turn their attentions to winning a ninth straight Bundesliga title, with the Bavarian giants sitting five points clear of second-placed RB Leipzig in the table.

"We have a good chance of winning the Bundesliga, at the end it will still be a positive season," insisted Neuer.

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer said his team paid for missing several chances in the first leg after the German side's Champions League title defence ended with a loss on away goals to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.

Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer said his team paid for missing several chances in the first leg after the German side's Champions League title defence ended with a loss on away goals to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday. Despite a 1-0 quarter-final second-leg victory at the Parc des Princes, Bayern were dumped out of Europe after a 3-3 aggregate draw. "It wasn't tonight that saw us knocked out," Neuer said. "The 1-0 win here was deserved but it was the result in Munich (3-2 loss) which wasn't good. We were in a bad position at kick-off." Bayern dominated for long periods over the tie, especially in the first leg when they had 31 attempts at the PSG goal but could only convert two of them without injured top-scorer Robert Lewandowski and winger Serge Gnabry. "It was annoying to have missed so many chances in the first leg," added Neuer. "Was Lewandowski missed? We missed all the players who weren't there tonight. Against a classy team like PSG, it's difficult. "But the players who were on the pitch gave it their all." Hansi Flick's Bayern will now turn their attentions to winning a ninth straight Bundesliga title, with the Bavarian giants sitting five points clear of second-placed RB Leipzig in the table. "We have a good chance of winning the Bundesliga, at the end it will still be a positive season," insisted Neuer.

Neuer blames first-leg loss for Bayern's Champions League exit

Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy.

Against the team that Mauricio Pochettino kept insisting was the best in Europe, PSG exacted revenge for their 1-0 defeat in last season's final in Lisbon.

It was not achieved without suffering, as they followed their smash-and-grab 3-2 win in the first leg in the Munich snow last week with a 1-0 defeat in Tuesday's return, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scoring Bayern's goal against his old side.

But while in previous years PSG might have collapsed under the pressure, this time they held on to win their quarter-final tie on away goals and set up a semi-final against Manchester City or Borussia Dortmund.

Following the Qatar Sports Investments takeover of 2011, PSG spent a long time struggling to make an impact in Champions League knockout ties.

They threw away first-leg leads to lose on away goals to Chelsea in the 2014 quarter-finals and to Manchester United in the last 16 in 2019.

There was the humiliation of the "remontada" against Barcelona in 2017 too, when a 4-0 first-leg lead in the last 16 was obliterated in a 6-1 second-leg loss.

This time they held on, despite captain Marquinhos and playmaker Marco Verratti both missing the second leg, and despite Neymar missing a host of chances in the first half.

"This club has been growing every day, year on year," said Presnel Kimpembe, the skipper against Bayern whose late handball was responsible for their dramatic exit against United two years ago.

<h2>- 'No excuse' for Neymar, Mbappe to leave -</h2>

The success against the holders comes after they eliminated Barcelona in the last 16, winning 4-1 at the Camp Nou in the first leg.

That was also a case of exacting revenge, with the Catalans having beaten the French side in the knockout rounds three times in the previous decade.

In both of those ties PSG have shown a resilience that has been lacking before, and they have beaten two of the great traditional powerhouses of European football en route to the last four, having also beaten Manchester United away in the group phase.

"We have deserved to win these two ties, but I don't think that makes us favourites now," said coach Pochettino, and yet there is a significance to the teams they have knocked out.

Last year their run to the final, as impressive as it was, featured wins over Dortmund, Atalanta and RB Leipzig, none of whom were seen as contenders to win the trophy. The latter two victories came in one-off ties in the 'Final Eight' in Lisbon.

PSG's European run this season comes just as their hegemony at home is under threat -- after seven Ligue 1 titles in eight years, they are currently three points behind leaders Lille with six games remaining.

Nevertheless, the Champions League is really all that matters, and it is success in Europe's elite club competition that can convince superstar duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar to sign contract extensions.

The two most expensive signings in football history when they arrived in Paris in 2017, Neymar and Mbappe are both out of contract at the end of next season. It remains Barcelona's dream to bring Neymar back, while Mbappe has long been linked to Real Madrid.

"Kylian and Neymar have no excuse for wanting to leave because we have everything in place here to win the Champions League," beaming PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi told RMC Sport.

"We are a top team now, with all respect for the other teams out there."

Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy.

Paris Saint-Germain's relationship with the Champions League over the last decade has been fraught with disappointment and littered with spectacular defeats, but an aggregate victory against holders Bayern Munich is the most significant of the Qatar era as they aim to finally get their hands on the trophy. Against the team that Mauricio Pochettino kept insisting was the best in Europe, PSG exacted revenge for their 1-0 defeat in last season's final in Lisbon. It was not achieved without suffering, as they followed their smash-and-grab 3-2 win in the first leg in the Munich snow last week with a 1-0 defeat in Tuesday's return, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scoring Bayern's goal against his old side. But while in previous years PSG might have collapsed under the pressure, this time they held on to win their quarter-final tie on away goals and set up a semi-final against Manchester City or Borussia Dortmund. Following the Qatar Sports Investments takeover of 2011, PSG spent a long time struggling to make an impact in Champions League knockout ties. They threw away first-leg leads to lose on away goals to Chelsea in the 2014 quarter-finals and to Manchester United in the last 16 in 2019. There was the humiliation of the "remontada" against Barcelona in 2017 too, when a 4-0 first-leg lead in the last 16 was obliterated in a 6-1 second-leg loss. This time they held on, despite captain Marquinhos and playmaker Marco Verratti both missing the second leg, and despite Neymar missing a host of chances in the first half. "This club has been growing every day, year on year," said Presnel Kimpembe, the skipper against Bayern whose late handball was responsible for their dramatic exit against United two years ago. - 'No excuse' for Neymar, Mbappe to leave - The success against the holders comes after they eliminated Barcelona in the last 16, winning 4-1 at the Camp Nou in the first leg. That was also a case of exacting revenge, with the Catalans having beaten the French side in the knockout rounds three times in the previous decade. In both of those ties PSG have shown a resilience that has been lacking before, and they have beaten two of the great traditional powerhouses of European football en route to the last four, having also beaten Manchester United away in the group phase. "We have deserved to win these two ties, but I don't think that makes us favourites now," said coach Pochettino, and yet there is a significance to the teams they have knocked out. Last year their run to the final, as impressive as it was, featured wins over Dortmund, Atalanta and RB Leipzig, none of whom were seen as contenders to win the trophy. The latter two victories came in one-off ties in the 'Final Eight' in Lisbon. PSG's European run this season comes just as their hegemony at home is under threat -- after seven Ligue 1 titles in eight years, they are currently three points behind leaders Lille with six games remaining. Nevertheless, the Champions League is really all that matters, and it is success in Europe's elite club competition that can convince superstar duo Kylian Mbappe and Neymar to sign contract extensions. The two most expensive signings in football history when they arrived in Paris in 2017, Neymar and Mbappe are both out of contract at the end of next season. It remains Barcelona's dream to bring Neymar back, while Mbappe has long been linked to Real Madrid. "Kylian and Neymar have no excuse for wanting to leave because we have everything in place here to win the Champions League," beaming PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi told RMC Sport. "We are a top team now, with all respect for the other teams out there."

PSG show their mettle with biggest Champions League scalp

Thomas Tuchel urged his young Chelsea team to embrace their Champions League "adventure" after they reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2014 despite a 1-0 defeat against Porto in Tuesday's quarter-final second leg.

Tuchel's side will play Real Madrid or Liverpool for a place in the final after producing a masterclass in game management to win 2-1 on aggregate in Seville.

Real travel to Anfield on Wednesday looking to protect a 3-1 lead from the first leg.

They could do worse than copy Tuchel's tactics as Chelsea smothered Porto with an intelligent defensive approach until Mehdi Taremi's stunning bicycle kick in the last minute of stoppage time.

That sublime strike was out of character with the rest of Porto's display as they laboured to overturn the 2-0 first-leg deficit.

Chelsea have lost only once in 18 matches since Tuchel replaced the sacked Frank Lampard in January and this was another feather in the German's cap.

Making it to the last four is an even more admirable feat given the lack of Champions League experience among the majority of Tuchel's squad.

Tuchel knows the likes of Mason Mount, Reece James, Kai Havertz, Ben Chilwell and Christian Pulisic are all learning on the job, but he hopes their fearlessness will be invaluable.

"Mason scored his first goal in the competition in the first leg. When Mbappe scores or Salah scores or Benzema scores, it is their 100th goal or their 50th goal in the competition," Tuchel said.

"We arrive with a very young team. They can fight and run and hang in there. We have to take it like an adventure for them. It is a big step.

"You see when Chelsea were last in the semi-finals. We are not used to being there. It's a big achievement."

Tuchel had admitted this week was a make or break period for Chelsea.

They passed the first test and can now focus on Saturday's FA Cup semi-final against Premier League leaders Manchester City at Wembley before returning to the Champions League trail.

"Once you are there you play to reach the final. We need every minute to learn and to grow.&nbsp;You cannot improve without these experiences," Tuchel said.

"We cannot rely on the biggest experience but we can rely on a hard working young group. Hopefully we can stay adventurous to accept the challenge. It will be a big one coming."

<h2>- 'Incredible' Kante -</h2>

Praising France midfielder N'Golo Kante's influential display in his first start since a hamstring injury, Tuchel said: "N'Golo is incredible, he is like one and a half or two players.

"Everyone who sees him for the first time loves him. He wins so many balls and gives everybody confidence."

Tuchel this week said he wouldn't want to fight Antonio Rudiger or Cesar Azpilicueta, such is the ferocious will to win coursing through Chelsea's most vocal players.

Both defenders lived up to Tuchel's billing as they fought tooth and nail to keep Porto at bay in a niggly clash.

Porto manager Sergio Conceicao added: "I'm really frustrated but I'm proud of what we did in both matches.

"Our performance was very good. We were more of a team than Chelsea. We just lacked that bit of efficiency."

Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy gifted Porto a golden opportunity for a priceless early goal when his miscued pass went straight to Jesus Corona inside the penalty area.

But Corona couldn't keep his composure and Jorginho did enough to ensure the shot flashed wide.

Corona's profligacy let Porto down again when he lashed hurriedly over from 12 yards after Ben Chilwell misjudged Otavio's high ball.

Taremi's eye-catching strike with seconds left came far too late for a dramatic finale, with tempers flaring in a heated exchange involving Rudiger and several Porto players after the final whistle.

Thomas Tuchel urged his young Chelsea team to embrace their Champions League "adventure" after they reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2014 despite a 1-0 defeat against Porto in Tuesday's quarter-final second leg.

Thomas Tuchel urged his young Chelsea team to embrace their Champions League "adventure" after they reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2014 despite a 1-0 defeat against Porto in Tuesday's quarter-final second leg. Tuchel's side will play Real Madrid or Liverpool for a place in the final after producing a masterclass in game management to win 2-1 on aggregate in Seville. Real travel to Anfield on Wednesday looking to protect a 3-1 lead from the first leg. They could do worse than copy Tuchel's tactics as Chelsea smothered Porto with an intelligent defensive approach until Mehdi Taremi's stunning bicycle kick in the last minute of stoppage time. That sublime strike was out of character with the rest of Porto's display as they laboured to overturn the 2-0 first-leg deficit. Chelsea have lost only once in 18 matches since Tuchel replaced the sacked Frank Lampard in January and this was another feather in the German's cap. Making it to the last four is an even more admirable feat given the lack of Champions League experience among the majority of Tuchel's squad. Tuchel knows the likes of Mason Mount, Reece James, Kai Havertz, Ben Chilwell and Christian Pulisic are all learning on the job, but he hopes their fearlessness will be invaluable. "Mason scored his first goal in the competition in the first leg. When Mbappe scores or Salah scores or Benzema scores, it is their 100th goal or their 50th goal in the competition," Tuchel said. "We arrive with a very young team. They can fight and run and hang in there. We have to take it like an adventure for them. It is a big step. "You see when Chelsea were last in the semi-finals. We are not used to being there. It's a big achievement." Tuchel had admitted this week was a make or break period for Chelsea. They passed the first test and can now focus on Saturday's FA Cup semi-final against Premier League leaders Manchester City at Wembley before returning to the Champions League trail. "Once you are there you play to reach the final. We need every minute to learn and to grow. You cannot improve without these experiences," Tuchel said. "We cannot rely on the biggest experience but we can rely on a hard working young group. Hopefully we can stay adventurous to accept the challenge. It will be a big one coming." - 'Incredible' Kante - Praising France midfielder N'Golo Kante's influential display in his first start since a hamstring injury, Tuchel said: "N'Golo is incredible, he is like one and a half or two players. "Everyone who sees him for the first time loves him. He wins so many balls and gives everybody confidence." Tuchel this week said he wouldn't want to fight Antonio Rudiger or Cesar Azpilicueta, such is the ferocious will to win coursing through Chelsea's most vocal players. Both defenders lived up to Tuchel's billing as they fought tooth and nail to keep Porto at bay in a niggly clash. Porto manager Sergio Conceicao added: "I'm really frustrated but I'm proud of what we did in both matches. "Our performance was very good. We were more of a team than Chelsea. We just lacked that bit of efficiency." Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy gifted Porto a golden opportunity for a priceless early goal when his miscued pass went straight to Jesus Corona inside the penalty area. But Corona couldn't keep his composure and Jorginho did enough to ensure the shot flashed wide. Corona's profligacy let Porto down again when he lashed hurriedly over from 12 yards after Ben Chilwell misjudged Otavio's high ball. Taremi's eye-catching strike with seconds left came far too late for a dramatic finale, with tempers flaring in a heated exchange involving Rudiger and several Porto players after the final whistle.

Chelsea enters Champions League semis for first time since 2014

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