Premier League champions Liverpool signed Greece defender Kostas Tsimikas from Olympiakos for a reported fee of £11.7 million ($15 million) on Monday.

Tsimikas agreed a five-year contract with Liverpool and is expected to provide back-up for first choice left-back Andy Robertson at Anfield.

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp moved for the 24-year-old after opting not to pay Norwich's asking price for their Northern Ireland left-back Jamal Lewis.

Tsimikas is Liverpool's first close-season signing and he told the club's website: "I'm very happy, I'm very proud to be here. For me, (it is) the biggest club in the world.

"The league here, I like a lot. I watch it on the TV and it was always one dream I had from when I was a kid to come to play in this league.

"(I want) to achieve (our) goals. To win the league again and also to win the Champions League."

Tsimikas, capped three times by Greece, made 86 appearances for Olympiakos in all competitions and has also had loan spells with Danish club Esbjerg and Dutch team Willem II.

He played 27 times in the league last season, winning the first major honour of his career as Olympiakos clinched the Greek title.

"We have watched Kostas for a long time and are really happy that he has joined us. It's the perfect news before we come back together very soon," Klopp said.

"He is a very good footballer with an attitude to win and to compete, and I really like his mentality. It fits perfectly with the mood and the desire we have in our dressing room already.

"Kostas knows from personal experience what is required to challenge and succeed domestically and in the Champions League, and he is ambitious for more, just like us."

Premier League champions Liverpool signed Greece defender Kostas Tsimikas from Olympiakos for a reported fee of £11.7 million ($15 million) on Monday. Tsimikas agreed a five-year contract with Liverpool and is expected to provide back-up for first choice left-back Andy Robertson at Anfield.

Premier League champions Liverpool signed Greece defender Kostas Tsimikas from Olympiakos for a reported fee of £11.7 million ($15 million) on Monday. Tsimikas agreed a five-year contract with Liverpool and is expected to provide back-up for first choice left-back Andy Robertson at Anfield. Reds boss Jurgen Klopp moved for the 24-year-old after opting not to pay Norwich's asking price for their Northern Ireland left-back Jamal Lewis. Tsimikas is Liverpool's first close-season signing and he told the club's website: "I'm very happy, I'm very proud to be here. For me, (it is) the biggest club in the world. "The league here, I like a lot. I watch it on the TV and it was always one dream I had from when I was a kid to come to play in this league. "(I want) to achieve (our) goals. To win the league again and also to win the Champions League." Tsimikas, capped three times by Greece, made 86 appearances for Olympiakos in all competitions and has also had loan spells with Danish club Esbjerg and Dutch team Willem II. He played 27 times in the league last season, winning the first major honour of his career as Olympiakos clinched the Greek title. "We have watched Kostas for a long time and are really happy that he has joined us. It's the perfect news before we come back together very soon," Klopp said. "He is a very good footballer with an attitude to win and to compete, and I really like his mentality. It fits perfectly with the mood and the desire we have in our dressing room already. "Kostas knows from personal experience what is required to challenge and succeed domestically and in the Champions League, and he is ambitious for more, just like us."

Liverpool sign Greece defender Tsimikas from Olympiakos

Brazil great Ronaldinho could be freed on August 24 following five months detention in Paraguay over a forged passport, judicial sources told AFP on Monday.

The former Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain star was detained alongside his brother Roberto de Assis Moreira on March 6, accused of entering Paraguay in possession of false passports.

They spent a month behind bars before paying a $1.6 million bail and being released to house arrest at the plush Palmaroga Hotel in the historic centre of the Paraguayan capital Asuncion.

Judge Gustavo Amarilla has set a date of August 24 to hear the case against the brothers.

Prosecutors have submitted a proposal to the judge that would see Ronaldinho, 40, pay a $90,000 fine "to repair social damage" but be allowed to return home to Brazil where he would have to appear before a judge every three months for a year.

Ronaldinho denies having any knowledge the passports were fake.

His brother -- who allegedly knew about the false passports -- would have to pay a $110,000 fine and appear before a judge every three months for two years.

Prosecutors also asked for a two-year suspended prison sentence for Roberto de Assis Moreira, who is also Ronaldinho's business manager.

The brothers arrived in Paraguay on March 4 without any issues, with Ronaldinho, 2005 Ballon d'Or winner, due to take part in event in support of disadvantaged children.

However, shortly after their arrival,&nbsp;the pair were taken into police custody when investigators raided their hotel following the discovery they had fake documents.

The investigation has since expanded into a case of possible money laundering.

Ronaldinho, considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, was crucial in Brazil's 2002 World Cup win.

Brazil great Ronaldinho could be freed on August 24 following five months detention in Paraguay over a forged passport, judicial sources told AFP on Monday. The former Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain star was detained alongside his brother Roberto de Assis Moreira on March 6, accused of entering Paraguay in possession of false passports.

Brazil great Ronaldinho could be freed on August 24 following five months detention in Paraguay over a forged passport, judicial sources told AFP on Monday. The former Barcelona, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain star was detained alongside his brother Roberto de Assis Moreira on March 6, accused of entering Paraguay in possession of false passports. They spent a month behind bars before paying a $1.6 million bail and being released to house arrest at the plush Palmaroga Hotel in the historic centre of the Paraguayan capital Asuncion. Judge Gustavo Amarilla has set a date of August 24 to hear the case against the brothers. Prosecutors have submitted a proposal to the judge that would see Ronaldinho, 40, pay a $90,000 fine "to repair social damage" but be allowed to return home to Brazil where he would have to appear before a judge every three months for a year. Ronaldinho denies having any knowledge the passports were fake. His brother -- who allegedly knew about the false passports -- would have to pay a $110,000 fine and appear before a judge every three months for two years. Prosecutors also asked for a two-year suspended prison sentence for Roberto de Assis Moreira, who is also Ronaldinho's business manager. The brothers arrived in Paraguay on March 4 without any issues, with Ronaldinho, 2005 Ballon d'Or winner, due to take part in event in support of disadvantaged children. However, shortly after their arrival, the pair were taken into police custody when investigators raided their hotel following the discovery they had fake documents. The investigation has since expanded into a case of possible money laundering. Ronaldinho, considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, was crucial in Brazil's 2002 World Cup win.

Ronaldinho set for August 24 release: judicial sources

Bruno Fernandes scored a penalty in extra time as Manchester United scraped past FC Copenhagen 1-0 on Monday in the quarter-finals of the Europa League, reshaped into an eight-team straight knockout tournament in Germany due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Portugal international notched his competition-best seventh goal of the season as United set up a semi-final clash against Sevilla or Wolves, joining Inter Milan in the last four following the Italian side's 2-1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in Dusseldorf.&nbsp;

"Third time this season we've been to the semis, every competition we've been in. Delighted we've gone through, we deserved to win tonight," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told BT Sport.

"Their keeper was fantastic, unbelievable. We hit the post a few times, there were a couple of VAR decisions against us. It could have been one of those nights that you end up with penalty shoot outs. They made it hard for us."

All games from the quarter-finals onwards in this season's Europa League are being played behind closed doors as one-off ties across four venues -- Cologne, Duisburg, Dusseldorf and Gelsenkirchen -- in a unique format following a five-month interruption.

Solskjaer recalled Fernandes, Paul Pogba, Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood and Anthony Martial but the 2017 competition winners struggled early, and 18-year-old Copenhagen forward Mohamed Daramy was twice involved as the Danish underdogs threatened a creaking United backline.

Eric Bailly intervened just as Daramy attempted to stab home a bouncing cross, and the Ivorian defender was then played into trouble by Fred with Jens Stage's subsequent effort blocked.

Rashford finally tested Karl-Johan Johnsson just before the interval with a long-range shot -- the first of a multitude of saves for Copenhagen's outstanding Swedish goalkeeper.&nbsp;

Greenwood looked to have put United ahead as he drilled in via the far post moments later only for the teenager to be ruled offside following a VAR review.

He again went close early in the second half when he slammed against the upright, with Fernandes promptly smacking the opposite post with a dipping 20-yard drive.&nbsp;

The Portugal international, who scored five times in the group stage with Sporting, stung the palms of Johnsson with another hit from distance -- shortly after Aaron Wan-Bissaka made a desperation block to thwart Bryan Oviedo after a mesmerising dribble from Rasmus Falk.

<h2>- Johnsson outstanding in goal -</h2>

&nbsp;

Appearing in their first European quarter-final, and the first Danish club to reach this stage since 1997, Copenhagen continued to frustrate United as they sought a repeat of their 1-0 win when the clubs last met in the Champions League group stage in 2006.

Martial nearly won the game in normal time but again a sprawling Johnsson tipped away his curling attempt that appeared destined for the top corner.

The France striker was once more repelled by Johnsson at the start of extra time, but Martial won a penalty as United kept the attack alive and the striker was upended by Andreas Bjelland.

Fernandes blasted home from the spot on 95 minutes but Solskjaer's team were left to sweat until the end as Johnsson pulled off sensational stops from the Portuguese and substitute Juan Mata, with Victor Lindelof the third United player to strike the post.

United though ultimately ensured their 2019-20 campaign will extend into a second year, having started the season 365 days ago with a 4-0 Premier League win over Chelsea. Awaiting them on Sunday will be Sevilla -- who have won the Europa League and its precursor, the UEFA Cup, a record five times -- or domestic rivals Wolves.

Former United striker Romelu Lukaku grabbed the decisive goal for Antonio Conte's Inter against Leverkusen as the Serie A runners-up moved a step closer to adding to their titles from 1991, 1994 and 1998.

Inter struck first as Nicolo Barella guided in from the edge of the area on 15 minutes, with Lukaku bundling in a second six minutes later.

Kai Havertz reduced the deficit in possibly his final game for Leverkusen on 25 minutes after exchanging passes with fellow Germany international Kevin Volland, but Inter held on to seal their place against Shakhtar Donetsk or Basel in next week's semi-final.

"The defence did a tremendous job again tonight. We are growing but we have to learn to kill games off when we have the chances to do it, and we didn't tonight," said Lukaku.

"Now we have time to recover physically and prepare for another great game. We will have to be ready."

Bruno Fernandes scored a penalty in extra time as Manchester United scraped past FC Copenhagen 1-0 on Monday in the quarter-finals of the Europa League, reshaped into an eight-team straight knockout tournament in Germany due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Bruno Fernandes scored a penalty in extra time as Manchester United scraped past FC Copenhagen 1-0 on Monday in the quarter-finals of the Europa League, reshaped into an eight-team straight knockout tournament in Germany due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Portugal international notched his competition-best seventh goal of the season as United set up a semi-final clash against Sevilla or Wolves, joining Inter Milan in the last four following the Italian side's 2-1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in Dusseldorf. "Third time this season we've been to the semis, every competition we've been in. Delighted we've gone through, we deserved to win tonight," United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told BT Sport. "Their keeper was fantastic, unbelievable. We hit the post a few times, there were a couple of VAR decisions against us. It could have been one of those nights that you end up with penalty shoot outs. They made it hard for us." All games from the quarter-finals onwards in this season's Europa League are being played behind closed doors as one-off ties across four venues -- Cologne, Duisburg, Dusseldorf and Gelsenkirchen -- in a unique format following a five-month interruption. Solskjaer recalled Fernandes, Paul Pogba, Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood and Anthony Martial but the 2017 competition winners struggled early, and 18-year-old Copenhagen forward Mohamed Daramy was twice involved as the Danish underdogs threatened a creaking United backline. Eric Bailly intervened just as Daramy attempted to stab home a bouncing cross, and the Ivorian defender was then played into trouble by Fred with Jens Stage's subsequent effort blocked. Rashford finally tested Karl-Johan Johnsson just before the interval with a long-range shot -- the first of a multitude of saves for Copenhagen's outstanding Swedish goalkeeper. Greenwood looked to have put United ahead as he drilled in via the far post moments later only for the teenager to be ruled offside following a VAR review. He again went close early in the second half when he slammed against the upright, with Fernandes promptly smacking the opposite post with a dipping 20-yard drive. The Portugal international, who scored five times in the group stage with Sporting, stung the palms of Johnsson with another hit from distance -- shortly after Aaron Wan-Bissaka made a desperation block to thwart Bryan Oviedo after a mesmerising dribble from Rasmus Falk. - Johnsson outstanding in goal - Appearing in their first European quarter-final, and the first Danish club to reach this stage since 1997, Copenhagen continued to frustrate United as they sought a repeat of their 1-0 win when the clubs last met in the Champions League group stage in 2006. Martial nearly won the game in normal time but again a sprawling Johnsson tipped away his curling attempt that appeared destined for the top corner. The France striker was once more repelled by Johnsson at the start of extra time, but Martial won a penalty as United kept the attack alive and the striker was upended by Andreas Bjelland. Fernandes blasted home from the spot on 95 minutes but Solskjaer's team were left to sweat until the end as Johnsson pulled off sensational stops from the Portuguese and substitute Juan Mata, with Victor Lindelof the third United player to strike the post. United though ultimately ensured their 2019-20 campaign will extend into a second year, having started the season 365 days ago with a 4-0 Premier League win over Chelsea. Awaiting them on Sunday will be Sevilla -- who have won the Europa League and its precursor, the UEFA Cup, a record five times -- or domestic rivals Wolves. Former United striker Romelu Lukaku grabbed the decisive goal for Antonio Conte's Inter against Leverkusen as the Serie A runners-up moved a step closer to adding to their titles from 1991, 1994 and 1998. Inter struck first as Nicolo Barella guided in from the edge of the area on 15 minutes, with Lukaku bundling in a second six minutes later. Kai Havertz reduced the deficit in possibly his final game for Leverkusen on 25 minutes after exchanging passes with fellow Germany international Kevin Volland, but Inter held on to seal their place against Shakhtar Donetsk or Basel in next week's semi-final. "The defence did a tremendous job again tonight. We are growing but we have to learn to kill games off when we have the chances to do it, and we didn't tonight," said Lukaku. "Now we have time to recover physically and prepare for another great game. We will have to be ready."

Fernandes penalty lifts Man Utd past dogged Copenhagen

The UEFA Champions League quarter-finals get underway in Lisbon on Wednesday, four months later than scheduled because of the coronavirus pandemic and as one-off matches, all behind closed doors, rather than two-legged ties.

AFP Sport looks at what to expect in each tie in the 'Final Eight' of this season's competition:

<h2>- Atalanta v PSG -</h2>

(Estadio da Luz, Wednesday 1900 GMT)

On paper, Paris Saint-Germain should beat Atalanta. After all, Neymar's annual salary of around 36 million euros ($42.5m) is believed to be equivalent to Atalanta's entire wage bill.

However, PSG have yet to convince at the business end of the Champions League since the Qatari takeover of the club nearly a decade ago and have not been beyond the quarter-finals in that time.

Indeed, they had not won a knock-out tie in four years before eliminating Borussia Dortmund in the last 16 in March, just before the coronavirus pandemic forced football around the world to stop.

They also have major selection issues here, with midfield maestro Marco Verratti injured, Angel Di Maria suspended and Kylian Mbappe not expected to start because of an ankle problem.

That piles more pressure on Neymar, while Atalanta come with the pressure off and the determination to win for their home city of Bergamo, which suffered the full devastating impact of the coronavirus more than just about anywhere in Europe.

This is their first ever Champions League campaign, but they have just finished third in Serie A for the second year running and scored a remarkable 98 goals in their 38 matches.

Colombian duo Duvan Zapata and Luis Muriel scored 18 each, but Josip Ilicic has been their main threat in Europe -- he scored all four goals when Atalanta won 4-3 at Valencia in March to eliminate the Spaniards 8-4 on aggregate.&nbsp;

Ilicic will miss the tie though after travelling back home to Slovenia for personal reasons.

<h2>- RB Leipzig v Atletico -</h2>

(Estadio Jose Alvalade, Thursday 1900 GMT)

Runners-up in 2014 and 2016, Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid are targeting a third final in seven seasons having dumped out holders Liverpool in a last-16 tie completed in March.&nbsp;

Atletico's preparations for Lisbon hit a snag when two players, Angel Correa and Sime Vrsaljko, tested positive for COVID-19 over the weekend and were quarantined. However, no further cases were detected following another round of testing ahead of the team's flight to Portugal.&nbsp;

Atletico finished the season strongly, going 11 games unbeaten since La Liga's return to seal third place. In total, they are undefeated in 18 matches dating back to the start of February.&nbsp;

RB Leipzig are appearing in the Champions League knockout phase for the first time, but the club's ambitions suffered a substantial blow following the sale of top scorer Timo Werner to Chelsea.&nbsp;

The Germans swept 2019 runners-up Tottenham aside in the previous round although coach Julian Nagelsmann must now find a way to replace the 34-goal void left behind by Werner.&nbsp;

<h2>- Barcelona v Bayern -</h2>

(Estadio da Luz, Friday 1900 GMT)

These are the only two former European champions left in the competition, with five titles each, making this the tie of the round.

Barcelona beat Bayern when the sides last met in the semi-finals in 2015, but this time a repeat of the outcome when the teams clashed in the 2013 semis somehow seems more likely.

Then Bayern ran riot, winning 7-0 on aggregate. They come to Lisbon fresh from completing a German league and cup double and having won their last 18 games in a row.

In Robert Lewandowski they have Europe's most fearsome striker -- he has scored 53 goals this season, including 13 in the Champions League, more than anyone else.

Barcelona of course have Lionel Messi, whose own tally of 31 goals is not bad.

The Argentine is 33 now yet still the best player on the planet. But questions remain about the quality of those around him, and coach Quique Setien is under huge pressure after the Catalans lost out to Real Madrid for the Spanish title.

<h2>- Man City v Lyon -</h2>

(Estadio Jose Alvalade, Saturday 1900 GMT)

Pep Guardiola is looking to end a near decade-long wait for another Champions League title after getting the better of Zinedine Zidane and Real Madrid last week.&nbsp;

City's best performance in the competition remains a run to the semi-finals in 2016, but the Premier League side are among the chief contenders to lift the trophy on August 23.&nbsp;

City will be well aware of the dangers posed by Lyon, who took four points off them in last season's group stage. Striker Sergio Aguero is unlikely to play again this term due to a knee injury although Gabriel Jesus has scored five times in his past seven games in the Argentine's absence.&nbsp;

Lyon are pinning their hopes of returning to Europe next season on winning the Champions League after a miserable and truncated domestic campaign in which they ended seventh.&nbsp;

However, the long lay-off has allowed key man Memphis Depay to return from a torn cruciate knee ligament, and it was his penalty which saw Lyon eliminate Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus on away goals.

The UEFA Champions League quarter-finals get underway in Lisbon on Wednesday, four months later than scheduled because of the coronavirus pandemic and as one-off matches, all behind closed doors, rather than two-legged ties.

The UEFA Champions League quarter-finals get underway in Lisbon on Wednesday, four months later than scheduled because of the coronavirus pandemic and as one-off matches, all behind closed doors, rather than two-legged ties. AFP Sport looks at what to expect in each tie in the 'Final Eight' of this season's competition: - Atalanta v PSG - (Estadio da Luz, Wednesday 1900 GMT) On paper, Paris Saint-Germain should beat Atalanta. After all, Neymar's annual salary of around 36 million euros ($42.5m) is believed to be equivalent to Atalanta's entire wage bill. However, PSG have yet to convince at the business end of the Champions League since the Qatari takeover of the club nearly a decade ago and have not been beyond the quarter-finals in that time. Indeed, they had not won a knock-out tie in four years before eliminating Borussia Dortmund in the last 16 in March, just before the coronavirus pandemic forced football around the world to stop. They also have major selection issues here, with midfield maestro Marco Verratti injured, Angel Di Maria suspended and Kylian Mbappe not expected to start because of an ankle problem. That piles more pressure on Neymar, while Atalanta come with the pressure off and the determination to win for their home city of Bergamo, which suffered the full devastating impact of the coronavirus more than just about anywhere in Europe. This is their first ever Champions League campaign, but they have just finished third in Serie A for the second year running and scored a remarkable 98 goals in their 38 matches. Colombian duo Duvan Zapata and Luis Muriel scored 18 each, but Josip Ilicic has been their main threat in Europe -- he scored all four goals when Atalanta won 4-3 at Valencia in March to eliminate the Spaniards 8-4 on aggregate. Ilicic will miss the tie though after travelling back home to Slovenia for personal reasons. - RB Leipzig v Atletico - (Estadio Jose Alvalade, Thursday 1900 GMT) Runners-up in 2014 and 2016, Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid are targeting a third final in seven seasons having dumped out holders Liverpool in a last-16 tie completed in March. Atletico's preparations for Lisbon hit a snag when two players, Angel Correa and Sime Vrsaljko, tested positive for COVID-19 over the weekend and were quarantined. However, no further cases were detected following another round of testing ahead of the team's flight to Portugal. Atletico finished the season strongly, going 11 games unbeaten since La Liga's return to seal third place. In total, they are undefeated in 18 matches dating back to the start of February. RB Leipzig are appearing in the Champions League knockout phase for the first time, but the club's ambitions suffered a substantial blow following the sale of top scorer Timo Werner to Chelsea. The Germans swept 2019 runners-up Tottenham aside in the previous round although coach Julian Nagelsmann must now find a way to replace the 34-goal void left behind by Werner. - Barcelona v Bayern - (Estadio da Luz, Friday 1900 GMT) These are the only two former European champions left in the competition, with five titles each, making this the tie of the round. Barcelona beat Bayern when the sides last met in the semi-finals in 2015, but this time a repeat of the outcome when the teams clashed in the 2013 semis somehow seems more likely. Then Bayern ran riot, winning 7-0 on aggregate. They come to Lisbon fresh from completing a German league and cup double and having won their last 18 games in a row. In Robert Lewandowski they have Europe's most fearsome striker -- he has scored 53 goals this season, including 13 in the Champions League, more than anyone else. Barcelona of course have Lionel Messi, whose own tally of 31 goals is not bad. The Argentine is 33 now yet still the best player on the planet. But questions remain about the quality of those around him, and coach Quique Setien is under huge pressure after the Catalans lost out to Real Madrid for the Spanish title. - Man City v Lyon - (Estadio Jose Alvalade, Saturday 1900 GMT) Pep Guardiola is looking to end a near decade-long wait for another Champions League title after getting the better of Zinedine Zidane and Real Madrid last week. City's best performance in the competition remains a run to the semi-finals in 2016, but the Premier League side are among the chief contenders to lift the trophy on August 23. City will be well aware of the dangers posed by Lyon, who took four points off them in last season's group stage. Striker Sergio Aguero is unlikely to play again this term due to a knee injury although Gabriel Jesus has scored five times in his past seven games in the Argentine's absence. Lyon are pinning their hopes of returning to Europe next season on winning the Champions League after a miserable and truncated domestic campaign in which they ended seventh. However, the long lay-off has allowed key man Memphis Depay to return from a torn cruciate knee ligament, and it was his penalty which saw Lyon eliminate Cristiano Ronaldo and Juventus on away goals.

Champions League quarter-finals guide

The German Football League on Tuesday accepted government’s decision to not back the plans for fans to return when Bundesliga 2020-21 season starts in mid-September.&nbsp;

DFL, in its statement, said that it respects the decision by the government as they have always stressed that curbing the spread of COVID-19 must be a top priority.&nbsp;

"The league has always stressed that containing the coronavirus must be a top priority," the DFL said in a statement.

"We therefore respect the position of the federal and state health ministers.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/alcantara-set-to-leave-but-bayern-cautiously-optimistic-of-keeping-alaba-319784" hreflang="en">Alcantara set to leave but Bayern 'cautiously optimistic' of keeping Alaba</a>

"The goal should be to strive for a return to normality in all areas of life, with targeted concepts appropriate to the respective situation."&nbsp;

The hopes of the Bundesliga and Germany’s top clubs were dashed on Monday when German health minister Jens Spahn said that he would not back a four-point plan for the partial return of fans when new season begins on September 18.&nbsp;

Germany was the first of Europe’s major leagues to resume action after COVID-19 shutdown but clubs lost millions of euros of match-day revenues for each match played in front of empty stands.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aaron-ramsey-has-no-place-in-andrea-pirlos-juventus-reports-319738" hreflang="en">Aaron Ramsey has no place in Andrea Pirlo's Juventus: Reports</a>

German clubs were hoping senior politicians would back their four-point plan which includes – all-seater stadiums, ban on away fans, personalized tickets and ban on alcohol. However, both Spahn and state premier for Bavaria Markus Soeder, said it was too early to allow fans back into the stadiums.&nbsp;

Moving forward, the DFL said that along with the clubs, it will "prepare in the best possible way for a return of stadium visitors" without setting a deadline. 
&nbsp;

The German Football League on Tuesday accepted government’s decision to not back the plans for fans to return when Bundesliga 2020-21 season starts in mid-September.

The German Football League on Tuesday accepted government’s decision to not back the plans for fans to return when Bundesliga 2020-21 season starts in mid-September. DFL, in its statement, said that it respects the decision by the government as they have always stressed that curbing the spread of COVID-19 must be a top priority. "The league has always stressed that containing the coronavirus must be a top priority," the DFL said in a statement. "We therefore respect the position of the federal and state health ministers. ALSO READ: Alcantara set to leave but Bayern 'cautiously optimistic' of keeping Alaba "The goal should be to strive for a return to normality in all areas of life, with targeted concepts appropriate to the respective situation." The hopes of the Bundesliga and Germany’s top clubs were dashed on Monday when German health minister Jens Spahn said that he would not back a four-point plan for the partial return of fans when new season begins on September 18. Germany was the first of Europe’s major leagues to resume action after COVID-19 shutdown but clubs lost millions of euros of match-day revenues for each match played in front of empty stands. ALSO READ: Aaron Ramsey has no place in Andrea Pirlo's Juventus: Reports German clubs were hoping senior politicians would back their four-point plan which includes – all-seater stadiums, ban on away fans, personalized tickets and ban on alcohol. However, both Spahn and state premier for Bavaria Markus Soeder, said it was too early to allow fans back into the stadiums. Moving forward, the DFL said that along with the clubs, it will "prepare in the best possible way for a return of stadium visitors" without setting a deadline.

Bundesliga "accepts" blow to hopes fans can return for 2020/21 season

Former Liverpool forward Daniel Sturridge is eyeing a return to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> to complete the ‘unfinished business’ in the English top-flight. The England striker has been out of professional football since leaving Turkish club Trabzonspor in March after being handed a four-month ban for breaching FA’s gambling protocols.

However, Sturridge has been regularly training at his base in Los Angeles while claiming to be ready to start the next chapter in his career. The English striker said while coming back to England would be the best possible option for him, he is not ruling out a move to other leagues.

"We have options around the world but I'm an English player and I've always loved playing in the Premier League," Sturridge told Sky Sports.

"I believe I've got a lot to give to the Premier League and I would say that's my first choice. I do feel I have unfinished business so I would like to go back and play there.

"I'm open to playing in other leagues, it's not just the Premier League I'm going to consider, but to come back to England and give my best would be a huge option for me.

"I'm very excited, I'm hungrier than ever and I'm totally focused on the next chapter."

Sturridge, 30, has scored 105 goals in 306 matches in English football during his time with Man City, Chelsea, Bolton, Liverpool and West Brom.&nbsp;

"I'd like to think I'm one of the better options for teams," he added.

"I'm a free agent and I've played for a lot of top clubs around the world. I'm just ready to help a team be successful and to be a big part of their plans.

"I believe there's a lot left in these legs. Although I've been around a long time, I would say that there's miles on the clock but this vehicle has a lot left."

Sturridge was one of the top performers at Liverpool when the Reds came agonizingly close to lift the Premier League under Brendan Rodgers.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the summer transfer window is set to end on October 5.

Former Liverpool forward Daniel Sturridge is eyeing a return to the Premier League to complete the ‘unfinished business’ in the English top-flight. The England striker has been out of professional football since leaving Turkish club Trabzonspor in March after being handed a four-month ban for breaching FA’s gambling protocols.

Former Liverpool forward Daniel Sturridge is eyeing a return to the Premier League to complete the ‘unfinished business’ in the English top-flight. The England striker has been out of professional football since leaving Turkish club Trabzonspor in March after being handed a four-month ban for breaching FA’s gambling protocols. However, Sturridge has been regularly training at his base in Los Angeles while claiming to be ready to start the next chapter in his career. The English striker said while coming back to England would be the best possible option for him, he is not ruling out a move to other leagues. "We have options around the world but I'm an English player and I've always loved playing in the Premier League," Sturridge told Sky Sports. "I believe I've got a lot to give to the Premier League and I would say that's my first choice. I do feel I have unfinished business so I would like to go back and play there. "I'm open to playing in other leagues, it's not just the Premier League I'm going to consider, but to come back to England and give my best would be a huge option for me. "I'm very excited, I'm hungrier than ever and I'm totally focused on the next chapter." Sturridge, 30, has scored 105 goals in 306 matches in English football during his time with Man City, Chelsea, Bolton, Liverpool and West Brom. "I'd like to think I'm one of the better options for teams," he added. "I'm a free agent and I've played for a lot of top clubs around the world. I'm just ready to help a team be successful and to be a big part of their plans. "I believe there's a lot left in these legs. Although I've been around a long time, I would say that there's miles on the clock but this vehicle has a lot left." Sturridge was one of the top performers at Liverpool when the Reds came agonizingly close to lift the Premier League under Brendan Rodgers. Meanwhile, the summer transfer window is set to end on October 5.

Former Liverpool and Chelsea striker Daniel Sturridge wants Premier League comeback

UEFA on Monday said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">Champions League</a> quarter-final match between Atletico Madrid and RB Leipzig is “planned to be played as scheduled” on Thursday despite two of the members at the Spanish club testing positive for the dreaded virus.

Atletico on Sunday reported two individuals had tested positive for COVID-19 just days before the face the German Club in Lisbon, where all the matches of the UEFA Champions League ‘Final-8’ is set to take place. However, the club didn’t clarify whether the it was the players, coaching staff or officials who had tested positive for coronavirus.

Atletico confirmed that a fresh round of tests was being carried out on the squad and backroom staff on Monday.&nbsp;

A UEFA spokesman said: "The match is planned to be played as scheduled. We have no further comments to make." 
Atletico Madrid on Sunday, in a statement, said that the two members who had tested positive “are self-isolating at their respective homes”.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-full-schedule-timings-of-quarter-finals-semis-and-final-319410" hreflang="en">UEFA Champions League: Full schedule, timings of quarter-finals, semis and final</a>

After football was came to screeching halt due to COVID-19 outbreak in March, UEFA came to a conclusion that the Champions League will be completed in a Final-8 tournament in Lisbon with one-legged match replacing the traditional two-legged affairs.

Under the UEFA protocol for European competitions, a team must have 13 healthy players, including a goalkeeper for a match to go ahead. If not then UEFA can give green signal for the match to be rescheduled.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-setback-as-atletico-report-two-positive-coronavirus-cases-319378" hreflang="en">Champions League setback as Atletico report two positive coronavirus cases</a>

The quarter-finals start on Wednesday when Italian side Atalanta take on Paris Saint-Germain. The final is scheduled to take place on August 23. 
&nbsp;

UEFA on Monday said that the Champions League quarter-final match between Atletico Madrid and RB Leipzig is “planned to be played as scheduled” on Thursday despite two of the members at the Spanish club testing positive for the dreaded virus.

UEFA on Monday said that the Champions League quarter-final match between Atletico Madrid and RB Leipzig is “planned to be played as scheduled” on Thursday despite two of the members at the Spanish club testing positive for the dreaded virus. Atletico on Sunday reported two individuals had tested positive for COVID-19 just days before the face the German Club in Lisbon, where all the matches of the UEFA Champions League ‘Final-8’ is set to take place. However, the club didn’t clarify whether the it was the players, coaching staff or officials who had tested positive for coronavirus. Atletico confirmed that a fresh round of tests was being carried out on the squad and backroom staff on Monday. A UEFA spokesman said: "The match is planned to be played as scheduled. We have no further comments to make." Atletico Madrid on Sunday, in a statement, said that the two members who had tested positive “are self-isolating at their respective homes”. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League: Full schedule, timings of quarter-finals, semis and final After football was came to screeching halt due to COVID-19 outbreak in March, UEFA came to a conclusion that the Champions League will be completed in a Final-8 tournament in Lisbon with one-legged match replacing the traditional two-legged affairs. Under the UEFA protocol for European competitions, a team must have 13 healthy players, including a goalkeeper for a match to go ahead. If not then UEFA can give green signal for the match to be rescheduled. ALSO READ: Champions League setback as Atletico report two positive coronavirus cases The quarter-finals start on Wednesday when Italian side Atalanta take on Paris Saint-Germain. The final is scheduled to take place on August 23.

Champions League: UEFA say Atletico Madrid v RB Leipzig match 'to be played as scheduled'

Jadon Sancho travelled with Borussia Dortmund to their pre-season training camp on Monday, the day the Bundesliga club's deadline for the England winger's possible transfer to Manchester United expired.

The 20-year-old is of the brightest talents in Europe and Dortmund, who finished second in the Bundesliga last season, had slapped a 120 million euros ($140 million) price tag on him.

Media in the United Kingdom reported last week that United were close to signing the starlet.

Reports of a switch to United became rife over the weekend after Sancho was spotted at a party in London before returning to Dortmund.

In an interview last week, Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke ruled out a transfer of Sancho once their week-long camp in Switzerland started Monday.

Jadon Sancho travelled with Borussia Dortmund to their pre-season training camp on Monday, the day the Bundesliga club's deadline for the England winger's possible transfer to Manchester United expired.

Jadon Sancho travelled with Borussia Dortmund to their pre-season training camp on Monday, the day the Bundesliga club's deadline for the England winger's possible transfer to Manchester United expired. The 20-year-old is of the brightest talents in Europe and Dortmund, who finished second in the Bundesliga last season, had slapped a 120 million euros ($140 million) price tag on him. Media in the United Kingdom reported last week that United were close to signing the starlet. Reports of a switch to United became rife over the weekend after Sancho was spotted at a party in London before returning to Dortmund. In an interview last week, Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke ruled out a transfer of Sancho once their week-long camp in Switzerland started Monday.

Sancho jets off with Dortmund as Man Utd switch deadline expires

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League 2019-20</a> is set to enter the decisive stage of the tournament with qualified teams set to lock horns in the quarter-finals before the much-awaited semi-final and final. Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the UCL will witness a brand new format with teams playing just one-legged matches instead of the traditional two-legged encounters.&nbsp;

Atalanta, Paris Saint-German, Manchester City, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Olympique Lyon, Red Bull Leipzig and Atletico Madrid have qualified for the ‘Final-8’, which is set to kickstart from Wednesday in Lisbon, Portugal.&nbsp;

The qualified teams will have their eyes set on the coveted trophy with a new winner guaranteed after Liverpool were knocked out by Atletico Madrid in the last round itself.&nbsp;

<h2>UEFA Champions League 2019-20: Full fixtures, schedule, timing of Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals and Final (all matches at 1900 GMT or 12:30 am IST):</h2>

<h2>Quarter-finals</h2>

Atalanta (ITA) v Paris Saint-Germain (FRA): Wednesday, Estadio da Luz

RB Leipzig (GER) v Atletico Madrid (ESP): Thursday, Estadio Jose Alvalade

Barcelona (ESP) v Bayern Munich (GER): Friday, Estadio da Luz

Manchester City (ENG) v Lyon (FRA): Saturday, Estadio Jose Alvalade

<h2>Semi-finals</h2>

RB Leipzig or Atletico Madrid v Atalanta or Paris Saint-Germain: Tuesday, August 18, Estadio da Luz

Manchester City or Lyon v Barcelona or Bayern Munich: Wednesday, August 19, Estadio Jose Alvalade

Final on August 23 at Estadio da Luz 
&nbsp;

The UEFA Champions League 2019-20 is set to enter the decisive stage of the tournament with qualified teams set to lock horns in the quarter-finals before the much-awaited semi-final and final.

The UEFA Champions League 2019-20 is set to enter the decisive stage of the tournament with qualified teams set to lock horns in the quarter-finals before the much-awaited semi-final and final. Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the UCL will witness a brand new format with teams playing just one-legged matches instead of the traditional two-legged encounters. Atalanta, Paris Saint-German, Manchester City, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Olympique Lyon, Red Bull Leipzig and Atletico Madrid have qualified for the ‘Final-8’, which is set to kickstart from Wednesday in Lisbon, Portugal. The qualified teams will have their eyes set on the coveted trophy with a new winner guaranteed after Liverpool were knocked out by Atletico Madrid in the last round itself. UEFA Champions League 2019-20: Full fixtures, schedule, timing of Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals and Final (all matches at 1900 GMT or 12:30 am IST): Quarter-finals Atalanta (ITA) v Paris Saint-Germain (FRA): Wednesday, Estadio da Luz RB Leipzig (GER) v Atletico Madrid (ESP): Thursday, Estadio Jose Alvalade Barcelona (ESP) v Bayern Munich (GER): Friday, Estadio da Luz Manchester City (ENG) v Lyon (FRA): Saturday, Estadio Jose Alvalade Semi-finals RB Leipzig or Atletico Madrid v Atalanta or Paris Saint-Germain: Tuesday, August 18, Estadio da Luz Manchester City or Lyon v Barcelona or Bayern Munich: Wednesday, August 19, Estadio Jose Alvalade Final on August 23 at Estadio da Luz

UEFA Champions League: Full schedule, timings of quarter-finals, semis and final

Zinedine Zidane has said Gareth Bale told him he did not want to play for Real Madrid against Manchester City in the Champions League last 16 on Friday.&nbsp;

But Zidane said Eden Hazard is fit to face City, despite concerns regarding the Belgian's right ankle.&nbsp;

Bale was left out of the squad and has not travelled to Manchester, where Madrid are aiming to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg in February to reach the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

Sources close to Bale claim he told Zidane he did not want to travel, after finding out he was not included in the squad, but was ready to play.&nbsp;

"There is a relationship of respect between player and coach," Zidane said in a press conference on Thursday.&nbsp;

"He preferred not to play, nothing more, and the rest is between me and him."&nbsp;

Zidane said it was a personal decision rather than a technical one but would not be drawn on details, insisting "there are things that have to stay in the changing room".&nbsp;

Bale's omission adds another low point to a turbulent season for the Welshman, who only started one of Madrid's last 11 matches after La Liga resumed in March.&nbsp;

Asked about Bale's future at Real Madrid, Zidane said: "Gareth Bale is a Real Madrid player, nothing has changed and I respect him like everyone else."&nbsp;

Zidane had more positive news regarding Hazard, whom he says is fit to face City, despite feeling pain in his troublesome right ankle last month.&nbsp;

"He had some problems at the end of La Liga but now he is much better and we have had a lot of time to prepare for this match," said Zidane.&nbsp;

"I think he's fine and feels confident."&nbsp;

Hazard underwent surgery in March on his ankle but still had his minutes managed during the run-in.&nbsp;

"Playing every two or three days made it difficult for him to recover," said Zidane. "But he is fine now and shouldn't be playing with discomfort."&nbsp;

Madrid will be without their captain Sergio Ramos against City, who will start the match as favourites to progress.&nbsp;

"We have a disadvantage," Zidane said. "But we know tomorrow is another game and that knock-out games aren't over until the last minute."&nbsp;

Zinedine Zidane has said Gareth Bale told him he did not want to play for Real Madrid against Manchester City in the Champions League last 16 on Friday. But Zidane said Eden Hazard is fit to face City, despite concerns regarding the Belgian's right ankle.

Zinedine Zidane has said Gareth Bale told him he did not want to play for Real Madrid against Manchester City in the Champions League last 16 on Friday. But Zidane said Eden Hazard is fit to face City, despite concerns regarding the Belgian's right ankle. Bale was left out of the squad and has not travelled to Manchester, where Madrid are aiming to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg in February to reach the quarter-finals. Sources close to Bale claim he told Zidane he did not want to travel, after finding out he was not included in the squad, but was ready to play. "There is a relationship of respect between player and coach," Zidane said in a press conference on Thursday. "He preferred not to play, nothing more, and the rest is between me and him." Zidane said it was a personal decision rather than a technical one but would not be drawn on details, insisting "there are things that have to stay in the changing room". Bale's omission adds another low point to a turbulent season for the Welshman, who only started one of Madrid's last 11 matches after La Liga resumed in March. Asked about Bale's future at Real Madrid, Zidane said: "Gareth Bale is a Real Madrid player, nothing has changed and I respect him like everyone else." Zidane had more positive news regarding Hazard, whom he says is fit to face City, despite feeling pain in his troublesome right ankle last month. "He had some problems at the end of La Liga but now he is much better and we have had a lot of time to prepare for this match," said Zidane. "I think he's fine and feels confident." Hazard underwent surgery in March on his ankle but still had his minutes managed during the run-in. "Playing every two or three days made it difficult for him to recover," said Zidane. "But he is fine now and shouldn't be playing with discomfort." Madrid will be without their captain Sergio Ramos against City, who will start the match as favourites to progress. "We have a disadvantage," Zidane said. "But we know tomorrow is another game and that knock-out games aren't over until the last minute."

Bale did not want to play against Man City, says Zidane

Bayern Munich are hoping Champions League success can convince Thiago Alcantara and David Alaba, who are stalling over extensions, to stay.

Bayern host Chelsea at Munich's Allianz Arena on Saturday in the last 16, second leg of the Champions League holding a 3-0 lead after hammering the Blues in London in February when Serge Gnabry scored twice in a gala display.

Since then, Bayern have secured an eighth straight Bundesliga title and lifted the German Cup putting them on course for the treble having won all 11 games post lockdown.&nbsp;

Chelsea are without wingers Christian Pulisic, who injured his hamstring in the FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal, and Pedro, who underwent shoulder surgery after being stretchered off at Wembley.

Blues skipper Cesar Azpilicueta&nbsp;is also expected to miss the Munich match after his hamstring injury added to Chelsea's list of wounded.

Bayern's personnel concerns are of a different nature as Alcantara, who has been linked to Liverpool, and Alaba, &nbsp;both have one year left on their contracts and are stalling over talks.

Like senior club bosses, forward Thomas Mueller hopes Champions League success can convince them to stay.

"Thiago is very safe on the ball, which does us good, and it is often underestimated how much he works to win back the ball," Mueller told Munich-based newspaper Sueddeutche Zeitung.

"David is extremely important for controlling and building up our game."

Mueller, a 2014 World Cup winner, says it would be "extremely bitter" if both Alcantara and Alaba left at the end of Bayern's Champions League campaign.

Nothing is likely to be decided while Bayern are still in Europe, yet both are in great form.

Alaba, 28, who joined as a teenager in 2008, has been dubbed "the black Franz Beckenbauer" by Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge for his outstanding displays at centre-back this season.

With right-back Benjamin Pavard injured, Joshua Kimmich has switched back into defence with his central midfield place going to Thiago, who was outstanding in last Friday's 1-0 friendly win over Marseille.

Last week, Rummenigge revealed Alcantara has signalled "that he wants to do something new", but so far no club has made an offer for the 29-year-old.

Having joined from Barcelona in 2013, under former Bayern coach Pep Guardiola, Alcantara has won the German league title in each of his seven seasons in Munich.

Rummenigge has made it clear neither will leave cheaply, "despite the coronavirus, there will not be a summer sale at FC Bayern", who reportedly want at least 30 million euros ($35 million) for Alcantara and more for Alaba.

However, for now it is just "important that both concentrate on the Champions League, then we will decide in peace," added Rummenigge.

Bayern Munich are hoping Champions League success can convince Thiago Alcantara and David Alaba, who are stalling over extensions, to stay. Bayern host Chelsea at Munich's Allianz Arena on Saturday in the last 16, second leg of the Champions League holding a 3-0 lead after hammering the Blues in London in February when Serge Gnabry scored twice in a gala display.

Bayern Munich are hoping Champions League success can convince Thiago Alcantara and David Alaba, who are stalling over extensions, to stay. Bayern host Chelsea at Munich's Allianz Arena on Saturday in the last 16, second leg of the Champions League holding a 3-0 lead after hammering the Blues in London in February when Serge Gnabry scored twice in a gala display. Since then, Bayern have secured an eighth straight Bundesliga title and lifted the German Cup putting them on course for the treble having won all 11 games post lockdown. Chelsea are without wingers Christian Pulisic, who injured his hamstring in the FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal, and Pedro, who underwent shoulder surgery after being stretchered off at Wembley. Blues skipper Cesar Azpilicueta is also expected to miss the Munich match after his hamstring injury added to Chelsea's list of wounded. Bayern's personnel concerns are of a different nature as Alcantara, who has been linked to Liverpool, and Alaba, both have one year left on their contracts and are stalling over talks. Like senior club bosses, forward Thomas Mueller hopes Champions League success can convince them to stay. "Thiago is very safe on the ball, which does us good, and it is often underestimated how much he works to win back the ball," Mueller told Munich-based newspaper Sueddeutche Zeitung. "David is extremely important for controlling and building up our game." Mueller, a 2014 World Cup winner, says it would be "extremely bitter" if both Alcantara and Alaba left at the end of Bayern's Champions League campaign. Nothing is likely to be decided while Bayern are still in Europe, yet both are in great form. Alaba, 28, who joined as a teenager in 2008, has been dubbed "the black Franz Beckenbauer" by Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge for his outstanding displays at centre-back this season. With right-back Benjamin Pavard injured, Joshua Kimmich has switched back into defence with his central midfield place going to Thiago, who was outstanding in last Friday's 1-0 friendly win over Marseille. Last week, Rummenigge revealed Alcantara has signalled "that he wants to do something new", but so far no club has made an offer for the 29-year-old. Having joined from Barcelona in 2013, under former Bayern coach Pep Guardiola, Alcantara has won the German league title in each of his seven seasons in Munich. Rummenigge has made it clear neither will leave cheaply, "despite the coronavirus, there will not be a summer sale at FC Bayern", who reportedly want at least 30 million euros ($35 million) for Alcantara and more for Alaba. However, for now it is just "important that both concentrate on the Champions League, then we will decide in peace," added Rummenigge.

Bayern hope Champions League success can convince Alcantara, Alaba to stay

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> clubs have voted against carrying over the five substitution rule for the 2020-21 season after the rule was introduced after the restart to safeguard players from injuries. Following the resumption of 2019-20 season in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, clubs were allowed to name as many as nine substitutes with allowance for five changes in the match.&nbsp;

While some clubs wanted the new rule to be retained but the Premier League confirmed they were voted down at the annuan general meeting, held virtually on Thursday.&nbsp;

“At the Premier League’s annual general meeting today, shareholders agreed to rules relating to VAR and substitute players for the 2020-21 season,” the statement read.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-and-europa-league-fixtures-timings-of-remaining-round-of-16-matches-317873" hreflang="en">UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches</a>

“Shareholders unanimously approved the implementation of VAR, in line with the full FIFA VAR protocol.

“Clubs also agreed to revert back to using up to three substitute players per match, with a maximum of seven substitutes on the bench.”

The VAR changes come as FIFA looks to have a unified approach to the implementation moving forward after controversy across several Premier League matches during the 2019-20 season and the new protocols were agreed upon in majority.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-uniteds-rashford-groenen-recognised-by-pfa-for-community-work-318821" hreflang="en">Manchester United's Rashford, Groenen recognised by PFA for community work</a>

The changes in VAR protocols will see referees use the pitch-side review area more often with the Premier League now using VAR to spot goalkeeper movement during penalties whereas the assistant referees have been told to keep their flag down for marginal offside calls until the attacking move was completed.

Meanwhile, there are calls by some clubs such as Chelsea and Wolves to given them an extended period of rest ahead of Premier League 2019-20 season. Clubs who would be advancing to the latter stages of Champions League and Europa League will be handed a prolonged rest period before they can start their season. 
&nbsp;

Premier League clubs have voted against carrying over the five substitution rule for the 2020-21 season after the rule was introduced after the restart to safeguard players from injuries.

Premier League clubs have voted against carrying over the five substitution rule for the 2020-21 season after the rule was introduced after the restart to safeguard players from injuries. Following the resumption of 2019-20 season in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, clubs were allowed to name as many as nine substitutes with allowance for five changes in the match. While some clubs wanted the new rule to be retained but the Premier League confirmed they were voted down at the annuan general meeting, held virtually on Thursday. “At the Premier League’s annual general meeting today, shareholders agreed to rules relating to VAR and substitute players for the 2020-21 season,” the statement read. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches “Shareholders unanimously approved the implementation of VAR, in line with the full FIFA VAR protocol. “Clubs also agreed to revert back to using up to three substitute players per match, with a maximum of seven substitutes on the bench.” The VAR changes come as FIFA looks to have a unified approach to the implementation moving forward after controversy across several Premier League matches during the 2019-20 season and the new protocols were agreed upon in majority. ALSO READ: Manchester United's Rashford, Groenen recognised by PFA for community work The changes in VAR protocols will see referees use the pitch-side review area more often with the Premier League now using VAR to spot goalkeeper movement during penalties whereas the assistant referees have been told to keep their flag down for marginal offside calls until the attacking move was completed. Meanwhile, there are calls by some clubs such as Chelsea and Wolves to given them an extended period of rest ahead of Premier League 2019-20 season. Clubs who would be advancing to the latter stages of Champions League and Europa League will be handed a prolonged rest period before they can start their season.

Premier League clubs vote against five substitution rule for 2020-21 season

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> and Europa League are set to return after a prolonged break due to COVID-19. While the ‘Final-8’ of the showpiece tournament is set to be played in Lisbon, Portugal, the remaining second-leg matches from the UCL and UEL will be played as earlier scheduled.&nbsp;

The last 16 matches of UCL and UEL have stood postponed since the coronavirus shutdown in March which not only affected the world of football but almost every other sport. While the European leagues have now been completed, the focus shifts onto the Champions League and Europa League set to commence from August 7 and August 5 respectively.&nbsp;

<h2>Here are the full fixtures of UEF Champions League last 16 second legs.&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>Champions League last 16 second legs: Full fixtures</h2>

Friday, August 7

At Turin, Italy

Juventus (ITA) v Lyon (FRA)

Lyon won first leg 1-0

At Manchester, England

Manchester City (ENG) v Real Madrid (ESP)

Man City won first leg 2-1

Saturday, August 8

At Munich, Germany

Bayern Munich (GER) v Chelsea (ENG)

Bayern won first leg 3-0

At Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona (ESP) v Napoli (ITA)

First leg 1-1

Final stages to be played in Lisbon

Quarter-finals August 12-15; Semi-finals August 18-19; Final August 23

<h2>Europa League last 16: Full fixtures</h2>

Wednesday, August 5

At Kiev (1655 GMT)

Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR) v Wolfsburg (GER) &nbsp;

Shakhtar won first leg 2-1

At Copenhagen (1655 GMT)

FC Copenhagen (DEN) v Istanbul Basaksehir (TUR)

Istanbul Basaksehir won first leg 1-0

At Manchester, England

Manchester United (ENG) v LASK (AUT)

Man Utd won first leg 5-0

At Gelsenkirchen, Germany

Inter Milan (ITA) v Getafe (ESP)

First leg postponed so being played as a one-off tie

Thursday, August 6

At Duisburg, Germany (1655 GMT)

Sevilla (ESP) v Roma (ITA)

First leg postponed so being played as a one-off tie

At Leverkusen, Germany (1655 GMT)

Bayer Leverkusen (GER) v Rangers (SCO)

Leverkusen won first leg 3-1

At Basel, Switzerland

Basel (SUI) v Eintracht Frankfurt (GER)

Basel won first leg 3-0

At Wolverhampton, England

Wolverhampton Wanderers (ENG) v Olympiakos (GRE)

First leg 1-1

Final stages to be played in Germany

Quarter-finals August 10-11; Semi-finals August 16-17; Final in Cologne on August 21 
&nbsp;

UEFA Champions League and Europa League are set to return after a prolonged break due to COVID-19. While the ‘Final-8’ of the showpiece tournament is set to be played in Lisbon, Portugal, the remaining second-leg matches from the UCL and UEL will be played as earlier scheduled.

UEFA Champions League and Europa League are set to return after a prolonged break due to COVID-19. While the ‘Final-8’ of the showpiece tournament is set to be played in Lisbon, Portugal, the remaining second-leg matches from the UCL and UEL will be played as earlier scheduled. The last 16 matches of UCL and UEL have stood postponed since the coronavirus shutdown in March which not only affected the world of football but almost every other sport. While the European leagues have now been completed, the focus shifts onto the Champions League and Europa League set to commence from August 7 and August 5 respectively. Here are the full fixtures of UEF Champions League last 16 second legs. Champions League last 16 second legs: Full fixtures Friday, August 7 At Turin, Italy Juventus (ITA) v Lyon (FRA) Lyon won first leg 1-0 At Manchester, England Manchester City (ENG) v Real Madrid (ESP) Man City won first leg 2-1 Saturday, August 8 At Munich, Germany Bayern Munich (GER) v Chelsea (ENG) Bayern won first leg 3-0 At Barcelona, Spain Barcelona (ESP) v Napoli (ITA) First leg 1-1 Final stages to be played in Lisbon Quarter-finals August 12-15; Semi-finals August 18-19; Final August 23 Europa League last 16: Full fixtures Wednesday, August 5 At Kiev (1655 GMT) Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR) v Wolfsburg (GER) Shakhtar won first leg 2-1 At Copenhagen (1655 GMT) FC Copenhagen (DEN) v Istanbul Basaksehir (TUR) Istanbul Basaksehir won first leg 1-0 At Manchester, England Manchester United (ENG) v LASK (AUT) Man Utd won first leg 5-0 At Gelsenkirchen, Germany Inter Milan (ITA) v Getafe (ESP) First leg postponed so being played as a one-off tie Thursday, August 6 At Duisburg, Germany (1655 GMT) Sevilla (ESP) v Roma (ITA) First leg postponed so being played as a one-off tie At Leverkusen, Germany (1655 GMT) Bayer Leverkusen (GER) v Rangers (SCO) Leverkusen won first leg 3-1 At Basel, Switzerland Basel (SUI) v Eintracht Frankfurt (GER) Basel won first leg 3-0 At Wolverhampton, England Wolverhampton Wanderers (ENG) v Olympiakos (GRE) First leg 1-1 Final stages to be played in Germany Quarter-finals August 10-11; Semi-finals August 16-17; Final in Cologne on August 21

UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches

Manchester United players Marcus Rashford and Jackie Groenen have won PFA’s Community Champion award for their contribution to social welfare activities and foundation this season, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> club announced on Thursday.

Rashford has earned widespread plaudits after the British government surrendered to pressure from the Manchester United forward’s campaign to ensure school food vouchers would be made available to struggling families in England during the holidays.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/MarcusRashford?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MarcusRashford</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Jackie_10_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Jackie_10_</a> who have received the <a href="https://twitter.com/PFA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PFA</a> 2019/20 Community Champion Award 🏆 
 
The award recognises their inspiring work with the Foundation and in the community 👏🤩<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUWomen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUWomen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CommunityChampion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CommunityChampion</a> <a href="https://t.co/xyFtgHEp5A">pic.twitter.com/xyFtgHEp5A</a>
— Man Utd Foundation (@MU_Foundation) <a href="https://twitter.com/MU_Foundation/status/1291359116342857728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The 22-year-old remembered the times when the food vouchers would help his family when he was young, through the Fareshare UK charity, as he helped raise around 20 million pounds ($26.31 million) to supply meals to struggling families during COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bale-did-not-want-to-play-against-man-city-says-zidane-318791" hreflang="en">Bale did not want to play against Man City, says Zidane</a>

“I’m thrilled to have won the PFA Community Champion award in what has been a very important season for me, both on and off the pitch,” said Rashford, who also received an honorary doctorate from the University of Manchester for his campaign.

“Building on those childhood experiences is a big reason why I’ve been so passionate about the campaign this year to try and tackle child poverty.”

Whereas, Groenen, the first overseas player in Manchester United women’s team, made frequent visit to Girls’ Regional Talent Club to coach young women footballers while becoming an ambassador for Johan Cruyff Foundation earlier in 2020.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-have-unfinished-business-in-the-champions-league-aymeric-laporte-318624" hreflang="en">Manchester City have unfinished business in the Champions League: Aymeric Laporte</a>

“It’s an honour to win this award in my first year at Manchester United,” the 25-year-old midfielder said.

“As players, it’s so important to give back and to be a good role model for young people. I’m just really happy I could be involved and do my bit to help inspire the next generation.” 
&nbsp;

Manchester United players Marcus Rashford and Jackie Groenen have won PFA’s Community Champion award for their contribution to social welfare activities and foundation this season, the Premier League club announced on Thursday.

Manchester United players Marcus Rashford and Jackie Groenen have won PFA’s Community Champion award for their contribution to social welfare activities and foundation this season, the Premier League club announced on Thursday. Rashford has earned widespread plaudits after the British government surrendered to pressure from the Manchester United forward’s campaign to ensure school food vouchers would be made available to struggling families in England during the holidays. Congratulations to @MarcusRashford and @Jackie_10_ who have received the @PFA 2019/20 Community Champion Award 🏆 The award recognises their inspiring work with the Foundation and in the community 👏🤩#MUFC #MUWomen #CommunityChampion pic.twitter.com/xyFtgHEp5A — Man Utd Foundation (@MU_Foundation) August 6, 2020 × The 22-year-old remembered the times when the food vouchers would help his family when he was young, through the Fareshare UK charity, as he helped raise around 20 million pounds ($26.31 million) to supply meals to struggling families during COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: Bale did not want to play against Man City, says Zidane “I’m thrilled to have won the PFA Community Champion award in what has been a very important season for me, both on and off the pitch,” said Rashford, who also received an honorary doctorate from the University of Manchester for his campaign. “Building on those childhood experiences is a big reason why I’ve been so passionate about the campaign this year to try and tackle child poverty.” Whereas, Groenen, the first overseas player in Manchester United women’s team, made frequent visit to Girls’ Regional Talent Club to coach young women footballers while becoming an ambassador for Johan Cruyff Foundation earlier in 2020. ALSO READ: Manchester City have unfinished business in the Champions League: Aymeric Laporte “It’s an honour to win this award in my first year at Manchester United,” the 25-year-old midfielder said. “As players, it’s so important to give back and to be a good role model for young people. I’m just really happy I could be involved and do my bit to help inspire the next generation.”

Manchester United's Rashford, Groenen recognised by PFA for community work

David Silva will not get the send-off he deserves in his final home appearance for Manchester City against Real Madrid at an empty Etihad but a fairytale ending could still be in store for the "Magician".

Silva has won 11 domestic trophies in his golden decade in Manchester and is widely regarded as one of the Premier League's finest imports.

But despite City's domestic supremacy they have yet to get their hands on the Champions League trophy.

The 34-year-old Spaniard was one of the first star names to join the Abu-Dhabi-backed revolution in Manchester.

Now he has a final shot at the one major trophy missing from his impressive collection, which includes winners' medals with Spain from the World Cup and two European championships.

City, who have never been crowned European champions, on Friday host 13-time winners Madrid, leading 2-1 after the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie in February.

The winners will progress to the latter stages of the competition, scheduled to take place in Lisbon later this month.

Kevin De Bruyne, who has had the joy of playing alongside Silva for the past five years, says his teammate will leave a huge hole when he leaves the Etihad.

"He is going to be a big miss," said the Belgium midfielder. "It would be great if we could win the Champions League so it could end well for him."

De Bruyne believes Silva is one of the best players to have graced the Premier League.

"You can always debate who is (number) one but when you play with him you can appreciate what he does day-in, day-out," he said.

<h2>- Special player -</h2>

&nbsp;

City boss Pep Guardiola coached Lionel Messi and Silva's long-time international teammates Andres Iniesta and Xavi at Barcelona but claims "in small spaces, in the pockets, I never saw a player like him (Silva)".

Finishing the job against Madrid would be particularly sweet for a player who rarely received the same fanfare as players such as Xavi, Iniesta and Sergio Ramos in his homeland for Spain's three international tournament triumphs between 2008 and 2012.

Silva is the fourth-highest goalscorer in Spain's history and sixth for all-time appearances, but his decision to join City rather than make the move to Madrid or Barcelona when leaving Valencia a decade ago made him easier to overlook for many in Spain.

"If he had gone to Barcelona everyone would be saying he is one of the best players in the world," said Roberto Mancini, City manager when Silva arrived in Manchester.

Silva's selfless style and quiet demeanour have also contributed to a lack of individual awards but he has always been appreciated by his teammates.

“He’s someone who doesn’t talk much, but he leads by example," added Guardiola. "He is such a competitor."

Although City may now be more reliant on De Bruyne's brilliance than Silva's skill, the Spaniard's experience of winning some of the game's biggest prizes could be crucial against a side boasting a host of four-time Champions League winners.

Since football's restart in June, City have won all eight games in which they have scored the first goal by a combined score of 33-1, including a 4-0 rout of Liverpool, but have lost all three when they conceded first.

Two away goals in Madrid mean there is no onus on City to open themselves up and expose a shaky defence, which cost them nine defeats and their Premier League crown.

It is not Guardiola's way to defend with men behind the ball, but they can protect themselves by keeping possession.

There are few better at that than Silva and City need one more masterclass before he draws the curtain on his time in Manchester.

David Silva will not get the send-off he deserves in his final home appearance for Manchester City against Real Madrid at an empty Etihad but a fairytale ending could still be in store for the "Magician".

David Silva will not get the send-off he deserves in his final home appearance for Manchester City against Real Madrid at an empty Etihad but a fairytale ending could still be in store for the "Magician". Silva has won 11 domestic trophies in his golden decade in Manchester and is widely regarded as one of the Premier League's finest imports. But despite City's domestic supremacy they have yet to get their hands on the Champions League trophy. The 34-year-old Spaniard was one of the first star names to join the Abu-Dhabi-backed revolution in Manchester. Now he has a final shot at the one major trophy missing from his impressive collection, which includes winners' medals with Spain from the World Cup and two European championships. City, who have never been crowned European champions, on Friday host 13-time winners Madrid, leading 2-1 after the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie in February. The winners will progress to the latter stages of the competition, scheduled to take place in Lisbon later this month. Kevin De Bruyne, who has had the joy of playing alongside Silva for the past five years, says his teammate will leave a huge hole when he leaves the Etihad. "He is going to be a big miss," said the Belgium midfielder. "It would be great if we could win the Champions League so it could end well for him." De Bruyne believes Silva is one of the best players to have graced the Premier League. "You can always debate who is (number) one but when you play with him you can appreciate what he does day-in, day-out," he said. - Special player - City boss Pep Guardiola coached Lionel Messi and Silva's long-time international teammates Andres Iniesta and Xavi at Barcelona but claims "in small spaces, in the pockets, I never saw a player like him (Silva)". Finishing the job against Madrid would be particularly sweet for a player who rarely received the same fanfare as players such as Xavi, Iniesta and Sergio Ramos in his homeland for Spain's three international tournament triumphs between 2008 and 2012. Silva is the fourth-highest goalscorer in Spain's history and sixth for all-time appearances, but his decision to join City rather than make the move to Madrid or Barcelona when leaving Valencia a decade ago made him easier to overlook for many in Spain. "If he had gone to Barcelona everyone would be saying he is one of the best players in the world," said Roberto Mancini, City manager when Silva arrived in Manchester. Silva's selfless style and quiet demeanour have also contributed to a lack of individual awards but he has always been appreciated by his teammates. “He’s someone who doesn’t talk much, but he leads by example," added Guardiola. "He is such a competitor." Although City may now be more reliant on De Bruyne's brilliance than Silva's skill, the Spaniard's experience of winning some of the game's biggest prizes could be crucial against a side boasting a host of four-time Champions League winners. Since football's restart in June, City have won all eight games in which they have scored the first goal by a combined score of 33-1, including a 4-0 rout of Liverpool, but have lost all three when they conceded first. Two away goals in Madrid mean there is no onus on City to open themselves up and expose a shaky defence, which cost them nine defeats and their Premier League crown. It is not Guardiola's way to defend with men behind the ball, but they can protect themselves by keeping possession. There are few better at that than Silva and City need one more masterclass before he draws the curtain on his time in Manchester.

Silva has last shot at European glory before Man City goodbye

Real Madrid would love nothing more than for Eden Hazard to burst into life against Manchester City on Friday but their march to the La Liga title has shown they know very well how to win without him.&nbsp;

Faced with the challenge of overturning a 2-1 first-leg defeat in February, a lesser Madrid might have been looking to Hazard for inspiration as they try to shock Pep Guardiola's side and reach the Champions League quarter-finals.&nbsp;

"We know we have to go there and win," said Zinedine Zidane after the first leg.

Back in England, where he forged his reputation as one of the world's most lethal attackers, and up against arguably the favourites to win the tournament, the stage is set again for Hazard to rescue what has been a nightmare opening year in Spain.&nbsp;

Yet few are billing this as a duel between Hazard and Kevin de Bruyne, Belgium's two brightest talents, or tieing Madrid's progress to the mast of a decisive Hazard intervention, the like of which Madrid's fans are yet to witness this season.&nbsp;

"We know the team wins with Eden," said Zidane in February. "That's why we signed him, he's a great player."

But the team have won without him too. The reality is Madrid have learned not to miss the player they signed for 100 million euros last year and who said at his unveiling at the Santiago Bernabeu he wanted to become the club's next Galactico.&nbsp;

There is still time, but Hazard's Madrid career so far has been a series of setbacks and comebacks, with only glimpses in between of those mazey runs, surges of acceleration or goals. In 21 appearances, Hazard has scored only once this season.&nbsp;

He may not be fully fit on Friday given the 11 games since La Liga resumed saw Hazard start some games, come off early in others and miss a handful altogether.&nbsp;

He was absent from the pictures published by the club on Wednesday of the morning's training session at Valdebebas.

Zidane has been vague on the 29-year-old's fitness issues but what is clear is the operation in March does not appear to have completely fixed his troublesome right ankle.&nbsp;

When he has been fit enough to play, Hazard has struck an unmissable chemistry with Karim Benzema and their promising partnership could wreak havoc in City's creaky backline or, further ahead, take Madrid to another level next term.&nbsp;

Zidane has admitted his team's La Liga success was built almost entirely on their defence but there is room for improvement up front, where Benzema's brilliant form has often made up for a lack of fluency and chances.&nbsp;

“Even as someone who prefers exciting, attacking football, the defence is the most important thing right now,” Zidane said last month.

In that sense, Madrid's strengths are far more threatened in Manchester by the absence of the suspended Sergio Ramos than they would be boosted by the return of Hazard, who could be kept on the bench if the conservative Zidane prefers a late push to all-out attack from the start.&nbsp;

There would be no better moment for peak Hazard to emerge but this is not the Madrid he joined last year, desperate and dead on their feet, at the end of a chastening season without silverware and without encouragement.&nbsp;

Zidane has led the transformation and he maintains complete faith, at least in public, that Hazard will come good at Madrid eventually. For now at least, it is more hope than expectation.&nbsp;

Real Madrid would love nothing more than for Eden Hazard to burst into life against Manchester City on Friday but their march to the La Liga title has shown they know very well how to win without him.

Real Madrid would love nothing more than for Eden Hazard to burst into life against Manchester City on Friday but their march to the La Liga title has shown they know very well how to win without him. Faced with the challenge of overturning a 2-1 first-leg defeat in February, a lesser Madrid might have been looking to Hazard for inspiration as they try to shock Pep Guardiola's side and reach the Champions League quarter-finals. "We know we have to go there and win," said Zinedine Zidane after the first leg. Back in England, where he forged his reputation as one of the world's most lethal attackers, and up against arguably the favourites to win the tournament, the stage is set again for Hazard to rescue what has been a nightmare opening year in Spain. Yet few are billing this as a duel between Hazard and Kevin de Bruyne, Belgium's two brightest talents, or tieing Madrid's progress to the mast of a decisive Hazard intervention, the like of which Madrid's fans are yet to witness this season. "We know the team wins with Eden," said Zidane in February. "That's why we signed him, he's a great player." But the team have won without him too. The reality is Madrid have learned not to miss the player they signed for 100 million euros last year and who said at his unveiling at the Santiago Bernabeu he wanted to become the club's next Galactico. There is still time, but Hazard's Madrid career so far has been a series of setbacks and comebacks, with only glimpses in between of those mazey runs, surges of acceleration or goals. In 21 appearances, Hazard has scored only once this season. He may not be fully fit on Friday given the 11 games since La Liga resumed saw Hazard start some games, come off early in others and miss a handful altogether. He was absent from the pictures published by the club on Wednesday of the morning's training session at Valdebebas. Zidane has been vague on the 29-year-old's fitness issues but what is clear is the operation in March does not appear to have completely fixed his troublesome right ankle. When he has been fit enough to play, Hazard has struck an unmissable chemistry with Karim Benzema and their promising partnership could wreak havoc in City's creaky backline or, further ahead, take Madrid to another level next term. Zidane has admitted his team's La Liga success was built almost entirely on their defence but there is room for improvement up front, where Benzema's brilliant form has often made up for a lack of fluency and chances. “Even as someone who prefers exciting, attacking football, the defence is the most important thing right now,” Zidane said last month. In that sense, Madrid's strengths are far more threatened in Manchester by the absence of the suspended Sergio Ramos than they would be boosted by the return of Hazard, who could be kept on the bench if the conservative Zidane prefers a late push to all-out attack from the start. There would be no better moment for peak Hazard to emerge but this is not the Madrid he joined last year, desperate and dead on their feet, at the end of a chastening season without silverware and without encouragement. Zidane has led the transformation and he maintains complete faith, at least in public, that Hazard will come good at Madrid eventually. For now at least, it is more hope than expectation.

Another chance for Hazard but Madrid can beat City without him

Sprint legend Usain Bolt Thursday claimed he wasn't given "a fair chance" to prove himself in Australia's A-League after a failed attempt to become a professional footballer.

The Jamaican, an eight-time Olympic champion, tried out with the Central Coast Mariners in 2018 after quitting athletics, hoping to fulfil a childhood dream to become a soccer player.

His quest garnered worldwide attention, which intensified when he scored two goals in a pre-season friendly.&nbsp;

But his abilities were questioned, notably by former Ireland striker Andy Keogh who said he had a "touch like a trampoline", and contract talks failed.

Bolt told Australia's Channel Nine television network: "I think I didn't get a fair chance.

"I didn't do it how I wanted to do it, but it's something I think I would've been good at," he added.

"But it's just one of those things you miss out on and just have to move on."

Bolt, the 100m and 200m world record holder, had previously tried out with clubs in Germany, South Africa and Norway.

Asked if he had any regrets about his attempted career shift, he replied: "I do think about it sometimes that it didn't work out the way that I wanted it to, because football is something that I love.

"The fact that it didn't work out I do think about it, but as I said, it's one of those things you've got to move past."

Earlier this year, Bolt and his partner Kasi Bennett became parents to a baby girl and he said he was content with life, despite disappointment at not becoming a footballer.

"Being a parent now, it's different. It gives you a sense of accomplishment so I'm really happy and just excited to go on this journey," he told the broadcaster.

"It's been just about living it and experiencing it day by day."

Sprint legend Usain Bolt Thursday claimed he wasn't given "a fair chance" to prove himself in Australia's A-League after a failed attempt to become a professional footballer.

Sprint legend Usain Bolt Thursday claimed he wasn't given "a fair chance" to prove himself in Australia's A-League after a failed attempt to become a professional footballer. The Jamaican, an eight-time Olympic champion, tried out with the Central Coast Mariners in 2018 after quitting athletics, hoping to fulfil a childhood dream to become a soccer player. His quest garnered worldwide attention, which intensified when he scored two goals in a pre-season friendly. But his abilities were questioned, notably by former Ireland striker Andy Keogh who said he had a "touch like a trampoline", and contract talks failed. Bolt told Australia's Channel Nine television network: "I think I didn't get a fair chance. "I didn't do it how I wanted to do it, but it's something I think I would've been good at," he added. "But it's just one of those things you miss out on and just have to move on." Bolt, the 100m and 200m world record holder, had previously tried out with clubs in Germany, South Africa and Norway. Asked if he had any regrets about his attempted career shift, he replied: "I do think about it sometimes that it didn't work out the way that I wanted it to, because football is something that I love. "The fact that it didn't work out I do think about it, but as I said, it's one of those things you've got to move past." Earlier this year, Bolt and his partner Kasi Bennett became parents to a baby girl and he said he was content with life, despite disappointment at not becoming a footballer. "Being a parent now, it's different. It gives you a sense of accomplishment so I'm really happy and just excited to go on this journey," he told the broadcaster. "It's been just about living it and experiencing it day by day."

Sprint king Bolt says 'didn't get fair chance' in football

Former Europa League winners Manchester United booked a quarter-final spot in the tournament after their second-string side laboured to a 2-1 home win over LASK Linz on Wednesday to seal a 7-1 aggregate rout of the Austrian side.

United’s reward is a clash with FC Copenhagen in Cologne on Monday after the Danish side beat Istanbul Basaksehir 3-0 at home earlier on Wednesday to wipe out a 1-0 first-leg deficit.

United, who won Europe’s second-tier club competition in 2017, appeared to be going through the motions and fell behind to a spectacular Philipp Wiesinger goal in the 55th minute before Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial replied.

Having been virtually assured of progress after a 5-0 win at LASK in March, United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer fielded a below-strength side at Old Trafford and they looked completely at sea for an hour.

Solskjaer said the fringe players needed a run out to stay in shape for United’s trip to Germany, where the latter stages of the competiton will be played in a mini-tournament, as his side aim to end the season on a high note.

“We learned that the players need to play to keep that sharpness,” the Norwegian told BT Sport.

“Some of these lads haven’t played for a while and it showed. Some haven’t played since lockdown. For me, it was a good exercise. It’s job done, minutes under the belt and on to (face) Copenhagen.”

United found themselves under pressure early on as LASK defender Andres Andrade hit the bar in the 10th minute and Husein Balic fired just wide from the ensuing scramble before striker Marko Raguz twice came close in a one-sided first half.

LASK took a deserved lead when United half cleared a corner and Wiesinger gave home goalkeeper Sergio Romero no chance with a screaming first-time shot from 25 metres into the top corner.

Falling behind finally spurred United into action and Lingard equalised after a defence-splitting pass by Juan Mata left him with time and space to steer his shot past goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.

Late substitute Martial completed United’s comeback on the night in the 88th minute when his close-range shot trickled over the line after squeezing through Schlager’s legs.

Romero spared United more blushes when he kept out a Raguz back-heel from two metres with a superb reflex save deep into stoppage time.

The last eight will be played in four German cities as part of the mini-tournament, with the final on Aug. 21 in Cologne.

Former Europa League winners Manchester United booked a quarter-final spot in the tournament after their second-string side laboured to a 2-1 home win over LASK Linz on Wednesday to seal a 7-1 aggregate rout of the Austrian side.

Former Europa League winners Manchester United booked a quarter-final spot in the tournament after their second-string side laboured to a 2-1 home win over LASK Linz on Wednesday to seal a 7-1 aggregate rout of the Austrian side. United’s reward is a clash with FC Copenhagen in Cologne on Monday after the Danish side beat Istanbul Basaksehir 3-0 at home earlier on Wednesday to wipe out a 1-0 first-leg deficit. United, who won Europe’s second-tier club competition in 2017, appeared to be going through the motions and fell behind to a spectacular Philipp Wiesinger goal in the 55th minute before Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial replied. Having been virtually assured of progress after a 5-0 win at LASK in March, United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer fielded a below-strength side at Old Trafford and they looked completely at sea for an hour. Solskjaer said the fringe players needed a run out to stay in shape for United’s trip to Germany, where the latter stages of the competiton will be played in a mini-tournament, as his side aim to end the season on a high note. “We learned that the players need to play to keep that sharpness,” the Norwegian told BT Sport. “Some of these lads haven’t played for a while and it showed. Some haven’t played since lockdown. For me, it was a good exercise. It’s job done, minutes under the belt and on to (face) Copenhagen.” United found themselves under pressure early on as LASK defender Andres Andrade hit the bar in the 10th minute and Husein Balic fired just wide from the ensuing scramble before striker Marko Raguz twice came close in a one-sided first half. LASK took a deserved lead when United half cleared a corner and Wiesinger gave home goalkeeper Sergio Romero no chance with a screaming first-time shot from 25 metres into the top corner. Falling behind finally spurred United into action and Lingard equalised after a defence-splitting pass by Juan Mata left him with time and space to steer his shot past goalkeeper Alexander Schlager. Late substitute Martial completed United’s comeback on the night in the 88th minute when his close-range shot trickled over the line after squeezing through Schlager’s legs. Romero spared United more blushes when he kept out a Raguz back-heel from two metres with a superb reflex save deep into stoppage time. The last eight will be played in four German cities as part of the mini-tournament, with the final on Aug. 21 in Cologne.

Below-strength Man United move into Europa League last eight

Manchester City have signed defender Nathan Ake from Bournemouth on a five-year deal, the Premier League club announced on Wednesday.

Financial details of the transfer were not disclosed but British media reported City paid Bournemouth 40 million pounds ($52 million) to sign the 25-year-old with an additional 1 million pounds to be paid in add-ons.

"City have been the best side in England over the course of the last decade," Ake said in a statement. "Coming here is a dream for me. This is a top side full of world class players.

“Pep (Guardiola) is a manager admired across the world – what he’s done in the game speaks for itself. The success he’s had is unbelievable and the style of football he plays really appeals to me.”

Bournemouth were relegated from the Premier League on the final day of the season and Ake is one of their players who was expected to leave to continue playing in the top flight.

The Netherlands international, who has also played as a left back, came through Chelsea’s youth system and was initially loaned out to Bournemouth before he signed permanently for the south coast club in June 2017.

Ake had loan spells at Watford and Reading before making 121 appearances for Bournemouth across all competitions, scoring 11 times and playing more minutes in the Premier League than any other player at the club.

City, who finished runners-up in the Premier League to Liverpool, are looking to strengthen their central defence as Guardiola aims to improve his squad for a title challenge next season.

Ake is City’s second recruit in the off season after the club signed Spanish winger Ferran Torres from Valencia on a five-year contract on Tuesday in a deal reported by British media to be worth 23 million euros ($27 million).

Manchester City have signed defender Nathan Ake from Bournemouth on a five-year deal, the Premier League club announced on Wednesday. Financial details of the transfer were not disclosed but British media reported City paid Bournemouth 40 million pounds ($52 million) to sign the 25-year-old with an additional 1 million pounds to be paid in add-ons.

Manchester City have signed defender Nathan Ake from Bournemouth on a five-year deal, the Premier League club announced on Wednesday. Financial details of the transfer were not disclosed but British media reported City paid Bournemouth 40 million pounds ($52 million) to sign the 25-year-old with an additional 1 million pounds to be paid in add-ons. "City have been the best side in England over the course of the last decade," Ake said in a statement. "Coming here is a dream for me. This is a top side full of world class players. “Pep (Guardiola) is a manager admired across the world – what he’s done in the game speaks for itself. The success he’s had is unbelievable and the style of football he plays really appeals to me.” Bournemouth were relegated from the Premier League on the final day of the season and Ake is one of their players who was expected to leave to continue playing in the top flight. The Netherlands international, who has also played as a left back, came through Chelsea’s youth system and was initially loaned out to Bournemouth before he signed permanently for the south coast club in June 2017. Ake had loan spells at Watford and Reading before making 121 appearances for Bournemouth across all competitions, scoring 11 times and playing more minutes in the Premier League than any other player at the club. City, who finished runners-up in the Premier League to Liverpool, are looking to strengthen their central defence as Guardiola aims to improve his squad for a title challenge next season. Ake is City’s second recruit in the off season after the club signed Spanish winger Ferran Torres from Valencia on a five-year contract on Tuesday in a deal reported by British media to be worth 23 million euros ($27 million).

Man City sign Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake

Ahead of the much-awaited round of 16 second-leg encounter, Manchester City defender Aymerrric Laporte has said that the Blues have unfinished business in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> while adding that the coveted trophy is the missing piece from the club’s growing silverware collection.

Man City have dominated English football in the last decade and more so after Pep Guardiola took the charge as manager of the club. However, they finished second to Liverpool in the Premier League this season and are yet to add the Champions League to their trophy cabinet.

“City have unfinished business in the Champions League, we have been talking about it for a long time, it’s the thing we are missing,” Laporte told Spanish newspaper AS on Thursday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-and-europa-league-fixtures-timings-of-remaining-round-of-16-matches-317873" hreflang="en">UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches</a>

“Last year we won four trophies in the same season but couldn’t win the Champions League, so if it’s our turn this year, perfect.”

<h2>Man City have all the ingredients to do great things: Laporte</h2>

Manchester City were knocked out from the quarter-finals in 2019 on away goals after VAR ruled out a last-gasp winner. In 2017, they were beaten on away goals by AS Monaco in the last 16.&nbsp;

“I don’t know what we’ve been doing wrong as the team has been the same in the last few years. Away goals have been key. Last year Tottenham scored the same number of goals as us but eliminated us,” added Laporte.

“We have all the ingredients to do great things. The team is really up for it, we don’t have to change much, we just need a little more luck. We have lacked that final spark which I’m sure we’ll find soon.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/travel-restrictions-may-force-football-clubs-to-forfeit-european-games-next-season-318377" hreflang="en">Travel restrictions may force football clubs to forfeit European games next season</a>

Man City have a 2-1 lead over Real Madrid ahead of Friday’s second-leg tie at the Etihad Stadium and will be without ace striker Sergio Aguero. Whereas, the Spanish outfit will be missing skipper Sergio Ramos, who was sent off in the first-leg.&nbsp;

“Everyone knows Aguero, he’s an important player to be missing just like theirs. All the goals that he has scored and the career he’s had since he was young speak for themselves,” added Laporte.

“He’s one of the best strikers I’ve ever seen but we believe in our other team mates. Sergio Ramos is also a very important player but we want to show that we can play better than them.” 
&nbsp;

Ahead of the much-awaited round of 16 second-leg encounter, Manchester City defender Aymerrric Laporte has said that the Blues have unfinished business in the UEFA Champions League while adding that the coveted trophy is the missing piece from the club’s growing silverware collection.

Ahead of the much-awaited round of 16 second-leg encounter, Manchester City defender Aymerrric Laporte has said that the Blues have unfinished business in the UEFA Champions League while adding that the coveted trophy is the missing piece from the club’s growing silverware collection. Man City have dominated English football in the last decade and more so after Pep Guardiola took the charge as manager of the club. However, they finished second to Liverpool in the Premier League this season and are yet to add the Champions League to their trophy cabinet. “City have unfinished business in the Champions League, we have been talking about it for a long time, it’s the thing we are missing,” Laporte told Spanish newspaper AS on Thursday. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches “Last year we won four trophies in the same season but couldn’t win the Champions League, so if it’s our turn this year, perfect.” Man City have all the ingredients to do great things: Laporte Manchester City were knocked out from the quarter-finals in 2019 on away goals after VAR ruled out a last-gasp winner. In 2017, they were beaten on away goals by AS Monaco in the last 16. “I don’t know what we’ve been doing wrong as the team has been the same in the last few years. Away goals have been key. Last year Tottenham scored the same number of goals as us but eliminated us,” added Laporte. “We have all the ingredients to do great things. The team is really up for it, we don’t have to change much, we just need a little more luck. We have lacked that final spark which I’m sure we’ll find soon.” ALSO READ: Travel restrictions may force football clubs to forfeit European games next season Man City have a 2-1 lead over Real Madrid ahead of Friday’s second-leg tie at the Etihad Stadium and will be without ace striker Sergio Aguero. Whereas, the Spanish outfit will be missing skipper Sergio Ramos, who was sent off in the first-leg. “Everyone knows Aguero, he’s an important player to be missing just like theirs. All the goals that he has scored and the career he’s had since he was young speak for themselves,” added Laporte. “He’s one of the best strikers I’ve ever seen but we believe in our other team mates. Sergio Ramos is also a very important player but we want to show that we can play better than them.”

Manchester City have unfinished business in the Champions League: Aymeric Laporte

Manchester United forward Alexis Sanchez has been released by the club to join Italian side Inter Milan on a free transfer in is a three-year deal for the Chilean. Sanchez, who has been on loan at Inter since the summer of 2019, is set to receive a small pay-off from the English club after agreeing to waive the final two years of his £560k-per-week contract.

With the permanent move to Inter, Sanchez ends his disappointing two-and-a-half-year spell at Old Trafford after arriving in a swap deal involving Henrikh Mkhitaryan from Arsenal. Sanchez just scored five goals in 45 appearances for United.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-kohli-finch-driven-captains-and-inspirational-players-kane-richardson-318576" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Kohli, Finch driven captains and inspirational players: Kane Richardson</a>

After confirming Sanchez's exit, a United statement read: "Everyone at Manchester United wishes Alexis Sanchez all the best in his future career as he joins Inter Milan on a permanent transfer."

Earlier in August 2019, former United defender Gary Neville gave an honest assessment of Sanchez’s stay at Manchester as he said no one could have foreseen that it would turn out to be a disaster.&nbsp;

"I thought he would be a forward who would play all across the line, who scored goals and was tenacious, but Sanchez has been an absolute disaster. I have no idea what's happened to him. There must be two of them. No one could have foreseen the disaster that was about to happen with Alexis Sanchez,” Neville had said on Sky Sports.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-city-sign-bournemouth-defender-nathan-ake-318548" hreflang="en">Man City sign Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake</a>

"I don't know what happened to him. That wasn't the Alexis Sanchez that played at Arsenal. He wasn't old when United signed him. He'd been proven. We knew United would get only a couple of years out of him, I know his wages were massive.

"But my point is, no one could have foreseen how bad he would be for the club."

Sanchez will look to continue his bright form for Inter with next immediate focus on ongoing Europa League 2019-20 trophy. 
&nbsp;

Manchester United forward Alexis Sanchez has been released by the club to join Italian side Inter Milan on a free transfer in is a three-year deal for the Chilean.

Manchester United forward Alexis Sanchez has been released by the club to join Italian side Inter Milan on a free transfer in is a three-year deal for the Chilean. Sanchez, who has been on loan at Inter since the summer of 2019, is set to receive a small pay-off from the English club after agreeing to waive the final two years of his £560k-per-week contract. With the permanent move to Inter, Sanchez ends his disappointing two-and-a-half-year spell at Old Trafford after arriving in a swap deal involving Henrikh Mkhitaryan from Arsenal. Sanchez just scored five goals in 45 appearances for United. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Kohli, Finch driven captains and inspirational players: Kane Richardson After confirming Sanchez's exit, a United statement read: "Everyone at Manchester United wishes Alexis Sanchez all the best in his future career as he joins Inter Milan on a permanent transfer." Earlier in August 2019, former United defender Gary Neville gave an honest assessment of Sanchez’s stay at Manchester as he said no one could have foreseen that it would turn out to be a disaster. "I thought he would be a forward who would play all across the line, who scored goals and was tenacious, but Sanchez has been an absolute disaster. I have no idea what's happened to him. There must be two of them. No one could have foreseen the disaster that was about to happen with Alexis Sanchez,” Neville had said on Sky Sports. ALSO READ: Man City sign Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake "I don't know what happened to him. That wasn't the Alexis Sanchez that played at Arsenal. He wasn't old when United signed him. He'd been proven. We knew United would get only a couple of years out of him, I know his wages were massive. "But my point is, no one could have foreseen how bad he would be for the club." Sanchez will look to continue his bright form for Inter with next immediate focus on ongoing Europa League 2019-20 trophy.

Alexis Sanchez joins Inter Milan on free transfer after leaving Manchester United

Manchester City have announced the signing of Valencia winger Ferran Torres on a five-year deal as Pep Guardiola looks to bolster his attacking options.

The 20-year-old Spaniard, City's first signing of the summer transfer window, has penned a five-year contract for a reported initial fee of £20.9 million ($27 million).

"I am so happy to be joining City," Torres told the Premier League club's website. "Every player wants to be involved in attacking teams and Manchester City are one of the most attacking in world football.

"Pep encourages a really open, aggressive style, which I love, and he is a manager with a proven track record of improving players. To have him overseeing my development is a dream."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Here we go! We’re delighted to announce the signing of <a href="https://twitter.com/FerranTorres20?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FerranTorres20</a> from Valencia on a five-year deal ✍️ 
 
🔵 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ManCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ManCity</a> | <a href="https://t.co/axa0klD5re">https://t.co/axa0klD5re</a> <a href="https://t.co/hzCbdoRsxL">pic.twitter.com/hzCbdoRsxL</a>
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1290724181886279685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Guardiola is keen to strengthen his squad following the loss of their Premier League title to Liverpool -- they have also agreed a £41 million fee for Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake.

"We have followed Ferran's progress closely and have been very impressed," said City director of football Txiki Begiristain.

"He is young and still developing, but his technical qualities are exactly what we are looking for in a winger. He is quick, direct, can create space with one movement and is capable of producing match-winning moments."

Torres can play on either wing and operate through the middle, with pace and an ability to beat players his main attributes.

He made 44 appearances for Valencia last season, scoring six goals.

Valencia tweeted: "You arrived at our Academy at 7 years old. We have been by your side through all this time seeing you grow as a footballer and as a person. At this point you have decided to separate our paths. @FerranTorres20 , we wish you the best with @ManCity."

Two-time defending champions City finished 18 points behind Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool, who were crowned champions in June after a three-month hiatus due to the coronavirus.

Manchester City have announced the signing of Valencia winger Ferran Torres on a five-year deal as Pep Guardiola looks to bolster his attacking options. The 20-year-old Spaniard, City's first signing of the summer transfer window, has penned a five-year contract for a reported initial fee of £20.

Manchester City have announced the signing of Valencia winger Ferran Torres on a five-year deal as Pep Guardiola looks to bolster his attacking options. The 20-year-old Spaniard, City's first signing of the summer transfer window, has penned a five-year contract for a reported initial fee of £20.9 million ($27 million). "I am so happy to be joining City," Torres told the Premier League club's website. "Every player wants to be involved in attacking teams and Manchester City are one of the most attacking in world football. "Pep encourages a really open, aggressive style, which I love, and he is a manager with a proven track record of improving players. To have him overseeing my development is a dream." Here we go! We’re delighted to announce the signing of @FerranTorres20 from Valencia on a five-year deal ✍️ 🔵 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re pic.twitter.com/hzCbdoRsxL — Manchester City (@ManCity) August 4, 2020 × Guardiola is keen to strengthen his squad following the loss of their Premier League title to Liverpool -- they have also agreed a £41 million fee for Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake. "We have followed Ferran's progress closely and have been very impressed," said City director of football Txiki Begiristain. "He is young and still developing, but his technical qualities are exactly what we are looking for in a winger. He is quick, direct, can create space with one movement and is capable of producing match-winning moments." Torres can play on either wing and operate through the middle, with pace and an ability to beat players his main attributes. He made 44 appearances for Valencia last season, scoring six goals. Valencia tweeted: "You arrived at our Academy at 7 years old. We have been by your side through all this time seeing you grow as a footballer and as a person. At this point you have decided to separate our paths. @FerranTorres20 , we wish you the best with @ManCity." Two-time defending champions City finished 18 points behind Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool, who were crowned champions in June after a three-month hiatus due to the coronavirus.

Coup! Manchester City sign winger Ferran Torres from Valencia

Manchester United are set to face LASK in the much-awaited UEFA Europa League second-leg clash at the iconic Old Trafford in Manchester. Holding a comfortable 5-0 lead, Manchester United will enter this clash with no nerves at all having won three of their last UEL matches by a four-plus goal margin.&nbsp;

The Red Devils are unbeaten in this season’s Europa League and would be looking to advance in the competition in a bid to lift the title. Manchester United have already sealed the Champions League spot after finishing in the top four of Premier League.&nbsp;

Whereas LASK have suffered three league defeats and haven’t drawn a single match in their last eight games. The first-leg defeat to Manchester United was LASK’s first UEL defeat in seven games. But, the Austrian outfit would look to produce an inspiring performance in the Theatre of Dreams without thinking much of the result.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-and-europa-league-fixtures-timings-of-remaining-round-of-16-matches-317873" hreflang="en">UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches</a>

<h2>Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match: All you need to know</h2>

When will the Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match begin?

The Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match will begin at 12:30 AM IST on August 5.

Where will the Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match be played?

The Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match match will be held at Old Trafford, Manchester.

Which channel will telecast the Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match?

The Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match will have a live telecast on Ten 2 and Ten2 HD in India

How to watch the live streaming of Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match?

The live streaming of Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match will be available on Sony’s streaming platform. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Manchester United are set to face LASK in the much-awaited UEFA Europa League second-leg clash at the iconic Old Trafford in Manchester. Holding a comfortable 5-0 lead, Manchester United will enter this clash with no nerves at all having won three of their last UEL matches by a four-plus goal margin.

Manchester United are set to face LASK in the much-awaited UEFA Europa League second-leg clash at the iconic Old Trafford in Manchester. Holding a comfortable 5-0 lead, Manchester United will enter this clash with no nerves at all having won three of their last UEL matches by a four-plus goal margin. The Red Devils are unbeaten in this season’s Europa League and would be looking to advance in the competition in a bid to lift the title. Manchester United have already sealed the Champions League spot after finishing in the top four of Premier League. Whereas LASK have suffered three league defeats and haven’t drawn a single match in their last eight games. The first-leg defeat to Manchester United was LASK’s first UEL defeat in seven games. But, the Austrian outfit would look to produce an inspiring performance in the Theatre of Dreams without thinking much of the result. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League and Europa League: Fixtures, timings of remaining Round of 16 matches Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match: All you need to know When will the Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match begin? The Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match will begin at 12:30 AM IST on August 5. Where will the Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match be played? The Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match match will be held at Old Trafford, Manchester. Which channel will telecast the Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match? The Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match will have a live telecast on Ten 2 and Ten2 HD in India How to watch the live streaming of Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match? The live streaming of Manchester United vs LASK, UEFA Europa League match will be available on Sony’s streaming platform.

Manchester United vs LASK, Europa League Live Streaming: When and where to watch MUFC vs LASK?

Football clubs playing in 2020-21 edition of European competitions could be forced to forfeit matches if they are unable to inform UEFA about travel restrictions in place to curb the spread of coronavirus, as per guidelines issues by UEFA.

The European football’s governing body, UEFA said that it would publish a list of known travel restrictions between countries before the draw is made. Additionally, the clubs would have to inform UEFA about any other unknown restrictions at least 48 hours before the draw and if they fail to do so then they will be handed a 3-0 defeat as a result of a forfeited match.

“If a club fails to inform the UEFA administration two days prior to the relevant draw of any restrictions other than those published by UEFA ... the club will be held responsible ... and the match will be declared to be forfeited by the club in question,” the governing body said.

UEFA further said that if a club was draw against an opponent that is not allowed to travel to the respective country then it must find a neutral venue for the home fixture. Failure to propose a suitable alternative venue would force the home club to forfeit the match.

The rules will apply for the qualifying rounds and play-offs of 2020-21 season’s European competitions.

The 2019-20 season’s remaining <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League</a> and Europa League round of 16 second-leg matches, that were also postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic in March, are set to be played in the stadiums of home teams.

However, the ‘Final-8’ of Champions League and Europa League, will be played as a mini-tournament in Portugal and Germany respectively.

Football clubs playing in 2020-21 edition of European competitions could be forced to forfeit matches if they are unable to inform UEFA about travel restrictions in place to curb the spread of coronavirus, as per guidelines issues by UEFA.

Football clubs playing in 2020-21 edition of European competitions could be forced to forfeit matches if they are unable to inform UEFA about travel restrictions in place to curb the spread of coronavirus, as per guidelines issues by UEFA. The European football’s governing body, UEFA said that it would publish a list of known travel restrictions between countries before the draw is made. Additionally, the clubs would have to inform UEFA about any other unknown restrictions at least 48 hours before the draw and if they fail to do so then they will be handed a 3-0 defeat as a result of a forfeited match. “If a club fails to inform the UEFA administration two days prior to the relevant draw of any restrictions other than those published by UEFA ... the club will be held responsible ... and the match will be declared to be forfeited by the club in question,” the governing body said. UEFA further said that if a club was draw against an opponent that is not allowed to travel to the respective country then it must find a neutral venue for the home fixture. Failure to propose a suitable alternative venue would force the home club to forfeit the match. The rules will apply for the qualifying rounds and play-offs of 2020-21 season’s European competitions. The 2019-20 season’s remaining UEFA Champions League and Europa League round of 16 second-leg matches, that were also postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic in March, are set to be played in the stadiums of home teams. However, the ‘Final-8’ of Champions League and Europa League, will be played as a mini-tournament in Portugal and Germany respectively.

Travel restrictions may force football clubs to forfeit European games next season

Tottenham Hotspur defender Danny Rose has said he is tired of racial discrimination after being regularly stopped by police and asked if his car is stolen.

The 30-year-old England international said he has had similar experiences for the last 15 years.

“The last time, last week, when I’d just been at my mum’s house, I had pulled up in a car park so the engine was off,” he told the Second Captains podcast.

“The police pulled in and they brought a riot van, three police cars and questioned me. They said they’d had a report that a car had not been driving correctly.

“I’m like: ‘So why does that make it my car?’ I got my ID out and they breathalysed me. It’s just one of those things to me now. Each time it’s: ‘Is this car stolen? Where did you get it from? Can you prove that you bought this car.’”

Rose said such incidents had made him sceptical about the prospects of lasting change.

“I just give up with hoping that things will change because that’s some people’s mentality towards racism.”

Rose said last year that he could not wait to leave football because he had had enough of the racism in the game.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Danny Rose has said he is tired of racial discrimination after being regularly stopped by police and asked if his car is stolen. The 30-year-old England international said he has had similar experiences for the last 15 years.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Danny Rose has said he is tired of racial discrimination after being regularly stopped by police and asked if his car is stolen. The 30-year-old England international said he has had similar experiences for the last 15 years. “The last time, last week, when I’d just been at my mum’s house, I had pulled up in a car park so the engine was off,” he told the Second Captains podcast. “The police pulled in and they brought a riot van, three police cars and questioned me. They said they’d had a report that a car had not been driving correctly. “I’m like: ‘So why does that make it my car?’ I got my ID out and they breathalysed me. It’s just one of those things to me now. Each time it’s: ‘Is this car stolen? Where did you get it from? Can you prove that you bought this car.’” Rose said such incidents had made him sceptical about the prospects of lasting change. “I just give up with hoping that things will change because that’s some people’s mentality towards racism.” Rose said last year that he could not wait to leave football because he had had enough of the racism in the game.

Spurs' Rose says tired of police stopping him to ask if car is stolen

Liverpool's principal owner John W Henry says being part of the club's triumphs in the past 14 months has been the highlight of his career despite his multiple successes with the Boston Red Sox.

Since June 2019, Jurgen Klopp's team have won the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and, after a 30-year wait, the English league title.

Henry's Fenway Sports Group also owns baseball franchise the Boston Red Sox, who ended their own 86-year trophy drought with a World Series victory in 2004, following up with further wins in 2007, 2013 and 2018.

But the American believes what Liverpool have achieved surpasses those achievements.

"The fact that we are champions of England, champions of Europe, the Club World Cup, the Super Cup is just an extraordinary accomplishment by this organisation and by these players," he told liverpoolfc.com.

"To be involved with that, to have been a part of it has really been the capstone of my career and I think all of us who have been a part of Fenway Sports Group."

Henry thanked the players and staff, highlighting the impact of Klopp and the team around him.

"I could go on and on about Jurgen and how his heart is larger than his frame, how his enthusiasm affects all of us positively every day," he said.

As Klopp plots more successes, veteran Liverpool midfielder James Milner has warned his team-mates it would be "criminal" for them to lose focus after their Premier League triumph.

The players are currently on a break before pre-season begins but Milner, who also won two titles in three years with Manchester City, says they have to be switched on when they return.

"I think it's getting that balance right. We have to enjoy it because we know how hard it is to win trophies," the 34-year-old told Liverpool's website.

"We've been very good to do it but also lucky to win the amount of trophies we have had this year.

"Trent (Alexander-Arnold) thinks it's absolutely easy, he just turns up and wins trophies every year but I can assure you, with the amount of years I've had in my career, it's not that easy."

He warned his teammates against letting their standards drop.

"We have a couple of weeks to enjoy this and enjoy being champions and then, as soon as next season starts, it's down to the fans to carry on enjoying it and enjoy being champions for us," he said.

Liverpool's principal owner John W Henry says being part of the club's triumphs in the past 14 months has been the highlight of his career despite his multiple successes with the Boston Red Sox.

Liverpool's principal owner John W Henry says being part of the club's triumphs in the past 14 months has been the highlight of his career despite his multiple successes with the Boston Red Sox. Since June 2019, Jurgen Klopp's team have won the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and, after a 30-year wait, the English league title. Henry's Fenway Sports Group also owns baseball franchise the Boston Red Sox, who ended their own 86-year trophy drought with a World Series victory in 2004, following up with further wins in 2007, 2013 and 2018. But the American believes what Liverpool have achieved surpasses those achievements. "The fact that we are champions of England, champions of Europe, the Club World Cup, the Super Cup is just an extraordinary accomplishment by this organisation and by these players," he told liverpoolfc.com. "To be involved with that, to have been a part of it has really been the capstone of my career and I think all of us who have been a part of Fenway Sports Group." Henry thanked the players and staff, highlighting the impact of Klopp and the team around him. "I could go on and on about Jurgen and how his heart is larger than his frame, how his enthusiasm affects all of us positively every day," he said. As Klopp plots more successes, veteran Liverpool midfielder James Milner has warned his team-mates it would be "criminal" for them to lose focus after their Premier League triumph. The players are currently on a break before pre-season begins but Milner, who also won two titles in three years with Manchester City, says they have to be switched on when they return. "I think it's getting that balance right. We have to enjoy it because we know how hard it is to win trophies," the 34-year-old told Liverpool's website. "We've been very good to do it but also lucky to win the amount of trophies we have had this year. "Trent (Alexander-Arnold) thinks it's absolutely easy, he just turns up and wins trophies every year but I can assure you, with the amount of years I've had in my career, it's not that easy." He warned his teammates against letting their standards drop. "We have a couple of weeks to enjoy this and enjoy being champions and then, as soon as next season starts, it's down to the fans to carry on enjoying it and enjoy being champions for us," he said.

Liverpool owner speaks of pride after 'extraordinary' trophy run

Spain’s World Cup-winning captain and goalkeeper Ike Casillas on Tuesday announced his retirement while ending a trophy-laded career spanning over two decades. The former Real Madrid skipper had called time on his five-year spell with Portuguese club FC Porto in June 2020 after his contract with the club expired.

Aged 39, Casillas has not played competitive football since suffering a heart attack during a training session last year.&nbsp;

"The important thing is the path you travel and the people who accompany you, not where it takes you, because that comes with work and effort alone," Casillas said on Twitter.

“I think I can say, without hesitation, that the path I have taken is the one I dreamt about."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Lo importante es el camino que recorres y la gente que te acompaña, no el destino al que te lleva, porque eso con trabajo y esfuerzo, llega solo y creo que puedo decir, sin dudar, que ha sido el camino y el destino soñado <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Grac1as?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Grac1as</a> <a href="https://t.co/xb8ucs9REh">pic.twitter.com/xb8ucs9REh</a>
— Iker Casillas (@IkerCasillas) <a href="https://twitter.com/IkerCasillas/status/1290604618205073410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Casillas was majorly handed a role as Porto’s technical staff while being also included in the first-team squad. However, the Spaniard never made into the matchday squad.

He led Spain’s golden generation that won World Cup in 2010 as well as two back-to-back Euro in 2008 and 2012, making it one of the greatest football teams of all time.

The left-footed shotstopper made his senior debut in 1999 after coming through Real Madrid’s youth system at the age of 18 and went on to make a whopping 725 appearance for Los Blancos in over 16 seasons, winning five La Liga titles and UEFA Champions League three times.

Casillas was never given a farewell he deserved in Real Madrid as he made a tearful exit in 2015 after announcing his departure from his boyhood club, a move for which the Spanish club was heavily criticized.&nbsp;

"The best goalkeeper in the history of Real Madrid and Spanish football joined us at the age of 9," Real Madrid said in a statement here on Tuesday.

“He was formed here and defended our shirt for 25 years, becoming one of our most emblematic captains of all time. Iker Casillas earned the love of madridismo and is a symbol of the values that Real Madrid represents.”

Casillas holds the record for most appearances in UEFA Champions League – 177 – as well as most clean sheets in the history of the competition – 57.

Spain’s World Cup-winning captain and goalkeeper Ike Casillas on Tuesday announced his retirement while ending a trophy-laded career spanning over two decades. The former Real Madrid skipper had called time on his five-year spell with Portuguese club FC Porto in June 2020 after his contract with the club expired.

Spain’s World Cup-winning captain and goalkeeper Ike Casillas on Tuesday announced his retirement while ending a trophy-laded career spanning over two decades. The former Real Madrid skipper had called time on his five-year spell with Portuguese club FC Porto in June 2020 after his contract with the club expired. Aged 39, Casillas has not played competitive football since suffering a heart attack during a training session last year. "The important thing is the path you travel and the people who accompany you, not where it takes you, because that comes with work and effort alone," Casillas said on Twitter. “I think I can say, without hesitation, that the path I have taken is the one I dreamt about." Lo importante es el camino que recorres y la gente que te acompaña, no el destino al que te lleva, porque eso con trabajo y esfuerzo, llega solo y creo que puedo decir, sin dudar, que ha sido el camino y el destino soñado #Grac1as pic.twitter.com/xb8ucs9REh — Iker Casillas (@IkerCasillas) August 4, 2020 × Casillas was majorly handed a role as Porto’s technical staff while being also included in the first-team squad. However, the Spaniard never made into the matchday squad. He led Spain’s golden generation that won World Cup in 2010 as well as two back-to-back Euro in 2008 and 2012, making it one of the greatest football teams of all time. The left-footed shotstopper made his senior debut in 1999 after coming through Real Madrid’s youth system at the age of 18 and went on to make a whopping 725 appearance for Los Blancos in over 16 seasons, winning five La Liga titles and UEFA Champions League three times. Casillas was never given a farewell he deserved in Real Madrid as he made a tearful exit in 2015 after announcing his departure from his boyhood club, a move for which the Spanish club was heavily criticized. "The best goalkeeper in the history of Real Madrid and Spanish football joined us at the age of 9," Real Madrid said in a statement here on Tuesday. “He was formed here and defended our shirt for 25 years, becoming one of our most emblematic captains of all time. Iker Casillas earned the love of madridismo and is a symbol of the values that Real Madrid represents.” Casillas holds the record for most appearances in UEFA Champions League – 177 – as well as most clean sheets in the history of the competition – 57.

Spain and Real Madrid legend Iker Casillas announces retirement

Australian football club Central Coast Mariners, who gave a chance to Olympic sprint legend Usain Bolt for the much-talked-about trial in 2018, face an uncertain future with its chairman/owners revealing that he is leaving the club.

Mike Charlesworth, who helped Central Coast Mariners from financial ruin in 2013, said he would sell majority of his stake or hand it back to the A-League if he could find a buyer.&nbsp;

“After 10 years of involvement with the Mariners, I feel the time is right for me to now step aside and to look for a new investor to take on the ownership of the Club,” the Briton said in a club statement.

The Mariners, who defeated Melbourne Victory 3-2 in Western Sydney on Monday, are finishing bottom for the fourth time in five campaigns.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-owner-speaks-of-pride-after-extraordinary-trophy-run-318045" hreflang="en">Liverpool owner speaks of pride after 'extraordinary' trophy run</a>

However, Mariners Chief Executive Shaun Mielekamp is “optimistic” that a buyer would be found to keep the team on the Central Coast but conceded the future was unknown.

Cherlesworth’s chairmanship commenced in 2013 with an immediate triumph as the Mariners claimed the maiden trophy under Graham Arnold. But since then, it has been a downward spiral for the club with the chairman angering the fans for running the team on a shoestring budget.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spurs-rose-says-tired-of-police-stopping-him-to-ask-if-car-is-stolen-318046" hreflang="en">Spurs' Rose says tired of police stopping him to ask if car is stolen</a>

The Mariners enjoyed a brief surge of global publicity when eight-times Olympic champion Bolt came to the sleepy Central Coast in eastern New South Wales state but the Jamaican was unable to agree terms and left after a few months.

England-based Charlesworth told Australian broadcaster SBS that he had tried to bring in investment from European clubs but the COVID-19 pandemic had changed everything.

“Everyone is suffering from top to bottom but even more so the small to medium-sized clubs,” he said.

“The global market has been very hard hit.”

(With inputs from Reuters) 
&nbsp;

Australian football club Central Coast Mariners, who gave a chance to Olympic sprint legend Usain Bolt for the much-talked-about trial in 2018, face an uncertain future with its chairman/owners revealing that he is leaving the club.

Australian football club Central Coast Mariners, who gave a chance to Olympic sprint legend Usain Bolt for the much-talked-about trial in 2018, face an uncertain future with its chairman/owners revealing that he is leaving the club. Mike Charlesworth, who helped Central Coast Mariners from financial ruin in 2013, said he would sell majority of his stake or hand it back to the A-League if he could find a buyer. “After 10 years of involvement with the Mariners, I feel the time is right for me to now step aside and to look for a new investor to take on the ownership of the Club,” the Briton said in a club statement. The Mariners, who defeated Melbourne Victory 3-2 in Western Sydney on Monday, are finishing bottom for the fourth time in five campaigns. ALSO READ: Liverpool owner speaks of pride after 'extraordinary' trophy run However, Mariners Chief Executive Shaun Mielekamp is “optimistic” that a buyer would be found to keep the team on the Central Coast but conceded the future was unknown. Cherlesworth’s chairmanship commenced in 2013 with an immediate triumph as the Mariners claimed the maiden trophy under Graham Arnold. But since then, it has been a downward spiral for the club with the chairman angering the fans for running the team on a shoestring budget. ALSO READ: Spurs' Rose says tired of police stopping him to ask if car is stolen The Mariners enjoyed a brief surge of global publicity when eight-times Olympic champion Bolt came to the sleepy Central Coast in eastern New South Wales state but the Jamaican was unable to agree terms and left after a few months. England-based Charlesworth told Australian broadcaster SBS that he had tried to bring in investment from European clubs but the COVID-19 pandemic had changed everything. “Everyone is suffering from top to bottom but even more so the small to medium-sized clubs,” he said. “The global market has been very hard hit.” (With inputs from Reuters)

Australian club that gave Usain Bolt trial chance face uncertain future

FIFA president Gianni Infantino will continue in his post, world football's governing body insisted Sunday, as they blasted the launch of Swiss criminal proceedings against him.

"There was and is absolutely no reason to open any investigation because nothing remotely criminal has happened and there is nothing at all to suggest any form of criminal wrongdoing," FIFA said in a media release.

"The FIFA president will continue to fully assume his functions within FIFA and fulfil his duties and will continue to cooperate with the authorities in Switzerland and around the world."

Special prosecutor Stefan Keller started proceedings on Thursday as part of an investigation into suspected collusion between Infantino and Switzerland's attorney general Michael Lauber, the country's top prosecutor.

Lauber, who offered his resignation on July 24, was in charge of Switzerland's probe into the towering corruption scandal that exploded at the heart of Zurich-based FIFA in 2015.

But he was forced to recuse himself from the investigation in June 2019, following media revelations that he had held several undeclared meetings with Infantino during the probe.

Swiss authorities said Keller "reached the conclusion that... there are indications of criminal conduct" in relation to meetings between Infantino, Lauber and another official, Rinaldo Arnold, in 2016 and 2017.

"This concerns abuse of public office, breach of official secrecy, assisting offenders and incitement to these acts," the authorities said.

<h2>- Categorical denial -</h2>

FIFA hit back on Sunday, accusing Keller of having brought forward no legal grounds for his probe.

"Keller has presented no serious elements or legal basis for the opening of any investigation and lacks any detail as to the substance of the case.

"FIFA and the FIFA president categorically deny any implication or suggestion that the FIFA president would ever have attempted to exert any form of improper influence" on Lauber.

FIFA said it was "not illegal anywhere in the world" to meet a prosecutor.

It said the meeting between Infantino and Lauber was "entirely logical" given that the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) was conducting investigations in more than 20 cases in FIFA-related matters.

The organisation said such meetings or contacts were "routine" during an investigation.

It said the point of the meeting was to offer FIFA's "full support" for the investigations, and Infantino attended in "good faith".

"FIFA was trying to restore trust in the institution at that time," it said, finding itself "in a disastrous situation and at risk of being designated a criminal organisation by the US authorities".

FIFA said that "in no way whatsoever" were the meetings secret, and they had been arranged by the OAG.

<h2>- 'No obligation' to keep minutes -</h2>

FIFA claimed that meeting a prosecutor was "the best guarantee that any such meeting is legitimate".

It also insisted there was "no obligation" on the FIFA president to keep minutes of such meetings.

Switzerland has pursued a number of cases since a raid on a luxury hotel in Zurich in May 2015 led to the arrests of a several FIFA executives and exposed an allegedly corrupt underbelly in world football.

In total, more than 20 FIFA proceedings have been opened in Switzerland over the past five years into allegations of corruption and vote-buying, and allegations over the awarding of television rights contracts.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino will continue in his post, world football's governing body insisted Sunday, as they blasted the launch of Swiss criminal proceedings against him.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino will continue in his post, world football's governing body insisted Sunday, as they blasted the launch of Swiss criminal proceedings against him. "There was and is absolutely no reason to open any investigation because nothing remotely criminal has happened and there is nothing at all to suggest any form of criminal wrongdoing," FIFA said in a media release. "The FIFA president will continue to fully assume his functions within FIFA and fulfil his duties and will continue to cooperate with the authorities in Switzerland and around the world." Special prosecutor Stefan Keller started proceedings on Thursday as part of an investigation into suspected collusion between Infantino and Switzerland's attorney general Michael Lauber, the country's top prosecutor. Lauber, who offered his resignation on July 24, was in charge of Switzerland's probe into the towering corruption scandal that exploded at the heart of Zurich-based FIFA in 2015. But he was forced to recuse himself from the investigation in June 2019, following media revelations that he had held several undeclared meetings with Infantino during the probe. Swiss authorities said Keller "reached the conclusion that... there are indications of criminal conduct" in relation to meetings between Infantino, Lauber and another official, Rinaldo Arnold, in 2016 and 2017. "This concerns abuse of public office, breach of official secrecy, assisting offenders and incitement to these acts," the authorities said. - Categorical denial - FIFA hit back on Sunday, accusing Keller of having brought forward no legal grounds for his probe. "Keller has presented no serious elements or legal basis for the opening of any investigation and lacks any detail as to the substance of the case. "FIFA and the FIFA president categorically deny any implication or suggestion that the FIFA president would ever have attempted to exert any form of improper influence" on Lauber. FIFA said it was "not illegal anywhere in the world" to meet a prosecutor. It said the meeting between Infantino and Lauber was "entirely logical" given that the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) was conducting investigations in more than 20 cases in FIFA-related matters. The organisation said such meetings or contacts were "routine" during an investigation. It said the point of the meeting was to offer FIFA's "full support" for the investigations, and Infantino attended in "good faith". "FIFA was trying to restore trust in the institution at that time," it said, finding itself "in a disastrous situation and at risk of being designated a criminal organisation by the US authorities". FIFA said that "in no way whatsoever" were the meetings secret, and they had been arranged by the OAG. - 'No obligation' to keep minutes - FIFA claimed that meeting a prosecutor was "the best guarantee that any such meeting is legitimate". It also insisted there was "no obligation" on the FIFA president to keep minutes of such meetings. Switzerland has pursued a number of cases since a raid on a luxury hotel in Zurich in May 2015 led to the arrests of a several FIFA executives and exposed an allegedly corrupt underbelly in world football. In total, more than 20 FIFA proceedings have been opened in Switzerland over the past five years into allegations of corruption and vote-buying, and allegations over the awarding of television rights contracts.

Infantino staying on as FIFA blasts Swiss probe

After an enforced hiatus of almost five months, the UEFA Champions League and Europa League resume this week in order to clear up the last remaining business in a troubled season.

Both competitions were frozen in March as the coronavirus pandemic took hold across the continent, and while European football's governing body acted swiftly to move Euro 2020 back a year, for a long time it was unclear how it would manage to complete its two landmark club competitions.

In the end the solution was to set up two mini tournaments bringing all teams together in one place from the quarter-finals onwards, with all ties being decided in one-off matches behind closed doors.

And so the Champions League will move to Lisbon for the 'Final Eight' starting on August 12 and ending with the final at Benfica's Estadio da Luz on August 23.

The Europa League, meanwhile, will be played to a conclusion at a series of venues in western Germany, with the last eight beginning on August 10 and the final in Cologne on August 21.

"I believed it from the first moment," said the UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin recently when asked if he ever doubted it would be possible to play the tournaments to a conclusion.

"You should always be optimistic, and if something like this crisis happens, you must have a plan ready.

"At the present time, we will be playing matches without spectators until further notice. We will not take any risks."

<h2>- UEFA not worried -</h2>

There is, though, no question of further changes being made to the formats despite concerns about an increase in Covid-19 cases in and around Lisbon, and more recent worries in Germany about a rise in cases there.

UEFA also recently insisted it was "confident" there would be no more delays despite cases of coronavirus emerging among players at Real Madrid and Sevilla.

It is, in any case, now or never.

Indeed, the preliminary round of next season's Champions League begins next Saturday, the same day Bayern Munich entertain Chelsea and Napoli visit Barcelona in their outstanding last 16 second legs.

Before that, Manchester City defend a 2-1 first-leg lead at home against Real on Friday as Pep Guardiola's side target Champions League glory on the back of the club's success at getting a two-year ban from the competition overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

The winner of that tie will face Juventus or Lyon in the quarter-finals in Lisbon.

<h2>- Wolves' longest year -</h2>

It is the Europa League which is first up, though, with the last 16 being completed on Wednesday and Thursday.

Two ties -- Inter Milan against Getafe and Sevilla against Roma -- will go ahead as one-off ties in Germany as the first legs were never played.

Six second legs will also be played with the winners heading to Germany for the last eight.

Among the ties to be completed is Manchester United's against Austrian side LASK, which will be a formality for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team after they won 5-0 in the first leg in March.

Their form since the Premier League resumed in mid-June has been excellent and they have already sealed a place in the 2020-21 Champions League, but now they want to finish this never-ending season with a trophy.

"Now our focus is on the Europa League because this is a really good trophy and we want to win," Bruno Fernandes told MUTV.

"I came to Manchester to win trophies. We need to play every game to win. If we go into the Europa League and win every game, we know we'll win the trophy."

United, Europa League winners in 2017, could yet find themselves facing Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers in the semi-finals in Cologne on August 16 should both teams get there.

Wolves entertain Greek champions Olympiakos on Thursday having drawn 1-1 in the first leg of their last-16 tie.

Their campaign started more than a year ago now, with a 2-0 win over Northern Irish side Crusaders in the second qualifying round on July 25, 2019.

Extending it by another couple of weeks would do them no harm.

After an enforced hiatus of almost five months, the UEFA Champions League and Europa League resume this week in order to clear up the last remaining business in a troubled season.

After an enforced hiatus of almost five months, the UEFA Champions League and Europa League resume this week in order to clear up the last remaining business in a troubled season. Both competitions were frozen in March as the coronavirus pandemic took hold across the continent, and while European football's governing body acted swiftly to move Euro 2020 back a year, for a long time it was unclear how it would manage to complete its two landmark club competitions. In the end the solution was to set up two mini tournaments bringing all teams together in one place from the quarter-finals onwards, with all ties being decided in one-off matches behind closed doors. And so the Champions League will move to Lisbon for the 'Final Eight' starting on August 12 and ending with the final at Benfica's Estadio da Luz on August 23. The Europa League, meanwhile, will be played to a conclusion at a series of venues in western Germany, with the last eight beginning on August 10 and the final in Cologne on August 21. "I believed it from the first moment," said the UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin recently when asked if he ever doubted it would be possible to play the tournaments to a conclusion. "You should always be optimistic, and if something like this crisis happens, you must have a plan ready. "At the present time, we will be playing matches without spectators until further notice. We will not take any risks." - UEFA not worried - There is, though, no question of further changes being made to the formats despite concerns about an increase in Covid-19 cases in and around Lisbon, and more recent worries in Germany about a rise in cases there. UEFA also recently insisted it was "confident" there would be no more delays despite cases of coronavirus emerging among players at Real Madrid and Sevilla. It is, in any case, now or never. Indeed, the preliminary round of next season's Champions League begins next Saturday, the same day Bayern Munich entertain Chelsea and Napoli visit Barcelona in their outstanding last 16 second legs. Before that, Manchester City defend a 2-1 first-leg lead at home against Real on Friday as Pep Guardiola's side target Champions League glory on the back of the club's success at getting a two-year ban from the competition overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The winner of that tie will face Juventus or Lyon in the quarter-finals in Lisbon. - Wolves' longest year - It is the Europa League which is first up, though, with the last 16 being completed on Wednesday and Thursday. Two ties -- Inter Milan against Getafe and Sevilla against Roma -- will go ahead as one-off ties in Germany as the first legs were never played. Six second legs will also be played with the winners heading to Germany for the last eight. Among the ties to be completed is Manchester United's against Austrian side LASK, which will be a formality for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team after they won 5-0 in the first leg in March. Their form since the Premier League resumed in mid-June has been excellent and they have already sealed a place in the 2020-21 Champions League, but now they want to finish this never-ending season with a trophy. "Now our focus is on the Europa League because this is a really good trophy and we want to win," Bruno Fernandes told MUTV. "I came to Manchester to win trophies. We need to play every game to win. If we go into the Europa League and win every game, we know we'll win the trophy." United, Europa League winners in 2017, could yet find themselves facing Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers in the semi-finals in Cologne on August 16 should both teams get there. Wolves entertain Greek champions Olympiakos on Thursday having drawn 1-1 in the first leg of their last-16 tie. Their campaign started more than a year ago now, with a 2-0 win over Northern Irish side Crusaders in the second qualifying round on July 25, 2019. Extending it by another couple of weeks would do them no harm.

Champions League ready to resume, at long last

Frank Lampard has called on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> to give Chelsea a fair start to next season, saying the September 12 launch date is "too early" for his players.

The Blues lost Saturday's FA Cup final 2-1 to London rivals Arsenal but are still not finished with the current campaign.

Lampard's side take on Bayern Munich on Saturday in the rescheduled second leg of their Champions League round-of-16 tie, trailing 3-0 from the first leg.

Even if they exit the competition, Chelsea will have just 35 days before the new season is due to begin.&nbsp;

Manchester City are also still in the Champions League, the final of which is scheduled for August 23, while Manchester United and Wolves are involved in the Europa League, which ends on August 21.

It is understood that when Premier League clubs agreed a September 12 start date, it was also clear there would need to be at least a 30-day break for Chelsea and any of the other teams playing in the end-of-season European competitions.

Lampard lost Willian and Ruben Loftus-Cheek on the eve of the FA Cup final to injury and Cesar Azpilicueta and goalscorer Christian Pulisic during the game to hamstring problems.

"Even in a worst-case scenario, we don't go through against Bayern, the 12th feels too early for me for the players to start playing again," said the Chelsea boss.

"The players need a break. That is why we have pulled two hamstrings and had players pull out of the game before this."

Lampard implored the Premier League to make sure clubs start the next season with a level playing field.

"I would like to think the Premier League would look seriously at that," he said.

"Hopefully they give us a fair start next season. We deserve to be (given a fair start) as a Premier League club competing in the Champions League."

Frank Lampard has called on the Premier League to give Chelsea a fair start to next season, saying the September 12 launch date is "too early" for his players. The Blues lost Saturday's FA Cup final 2-1 to London rivals Arsenal but are still not finished with the current campaign.

Frank Lampard has called on the Premier League to give Chelsea a fair start to next season, saying the September 12 launch date is "too early" for his players. The Blues lost Saturday's FA Cup final 2-1 to London rivals Arsenal but are still not finished with the current campaign. Lampard's side take on Bayern Munich on Saturday in the rescheduled second leg of their Champions League round-of-16 tie, trailing 3-0 from the first leg. Even if they exit the competition, Chelsea will have just 35 days before the new season is due to begin. Manchester City are also still in the Champions League, the final of which is scheduled for August 23, while Manchester United and Wolves are involved in the Europa League, which ends on August 21. It is understood that when Premier League clubs agreed a September 12 start date, it was also clear there would need to be at least a 30-day break for Chelsea and any of the other teams playing in the end-of-season European competitions. Lampard lost Willian and Ruben Loftus-Cheek on the eve of the FA Cup final to injury and Cesar Azpilicueta and goalscorer Christian Pulisic during the game to hamstring problems. "Even in a worst-case scenario, we don't go through against Bayern, the 12th feels too early for me for the players to start playing again," said the Chelsea boss. "The players need a break. That is why we have pulled two hamstrings and had players pull out of the game before this." Lampard implored the Premier League to make sure clubs start the next season with a level playing field. "I would like to think the Premier League would look seriously at that," he said. "Hopefully they give us a fair start next season. We deserve to be (given a fair start) as a Premier League club competing in the Champions League."

Lampard calls for 'fair' treatment for tired Chelsea

football-news

Football News, News on Football News, stories on Football News, articles on Football News, Football News stories at Wion, Football News news, Football News latest news

football news