Argentine forward Gonzalo Higuain said his "dream is over" after he brought the curtain down on his trophy-laden career following Inter Miami's 3-0 defeat to New York City FC in the Major League Soccer playoffs.

Higuain, who announced his decision to retire earlier this month, was unable to sign off with a trophy after failing to inspire Miami to victory at Citi Field.

Following the final whistle, a tearful Higuain stood hunched over in silence for several minutes.

"I felt like what I had loved the most as a job had ended. It was half my life, my career, 17-and-a-half years," Higuain told reporters on Monday.

"Images from my entire career came to my mind. What I lived, what I worked, what I experienced and I'm leaving very happy because I gave it all until today. That's the most important thing...

"The dream is over and another life begins."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrids-karim-benzema-wins-ballon-dor-2022-here-is-complete-list-of-winners-from-awards-ceremony-526324">Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema wins Ballon d’Or 2022: Here is complete list of winners from awards ceremony</a>

Higuain began his career at River Plate before making a name for himself at Real Madrid, Napoli and Juventus, moving to Inter Miami in 2020. He scored over 300 goals in his club career and 31 times for Argentina.

The 34-year-old, who won three LaLiga titles with Madrid and three Serie A crowns during his time at Juventus, said that his biggest achievement was being known as a "good person" throughout his career.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-unitedn-striker-mason-greenwood-remanded-in-custody-on-attempted-rape-charge-526217">Man United striker Mason Greenwood remanded in custody on attempted rape charge</a>

He added that he was interested in working in the "mental coaching" side of the sport.

"It is the most important part of the game," Higuain said. "You can have all the skill and all the talent but if you aren't right mentally, it doesn't count for much."

Argentine forward Gonzalo Higuain said his "dream is over" after he brought the curtain down on his trophy-laden career following Inter Miami's 3-0 defeat to New York City FC in the Major League Soccer playoffs.

Argentine forward Gonzalo Higuain said his "dream is over" after he brought the curtain down on his trophy-laden career following Inter Miami's 3-0 defeat to New York City FC in the Major League Soccer playoffs. Higuain, who announced his decision to retire earlier this month, was unable to sign off with a trophy after failing to inspire Miami to victory at Citi Field. Following the final whistle, a tearful Higuain stood hunched over in silence for several minutes. "I felt like what I had loved the most as a job had ended. It was half my life, my career, 17-and-a-half years," Higuain told reporters on Monday. "Images from my entire career came to my mind. What I lived, what I worked, what I experienced and I'm leaving very happy because I gave it all until today. That's the most important thing... "The dream is over and another life begins." Also Read: Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema wins Ballon d’Or 2022: Here is complete list of winners from awards ceremony Higuain began his career at River Plate before making a name for himself at Real Madrid, Napoli and Juventus, moving to Inter Miami in 2020. He scored over 300 goals in his club career and 31 times for Argentina. The 34-year-old, who won three LaLiga titles with Madrid and three Serie A crowns during his time at Juventus, said that his biggest achievement was being known as a "good person" throughout his career. Also Read: Man United striker Mason Greenwood remanded in custody on attempted rape charge He added that he was interested in working in the "mental coaching" side of the sport. "It is the most important part of the game," Higuain said. "You can have all the skill and all the talent but if you aren't right mentally, it doesn't count for much."

Gonzalo Higuain's 'dream is over' as Argentine brings curtain down on football career

Gonzalo Higuain and his brother Federico will be in Inter Miami after the MLS club signed a deal with DC United for the midfielder on Saturday. Also read: Edinson Cavani talks about pressure of wearing jersey No.

Gonzalo Higuain and his brother Federico will be in Inter Miami after the MLS club signed a deal with DC United for the midfielder on Saturday. Also read: Edinson Cavani talks about pressure of wearing jersey No.7 for Manchester United According to the deal, Miami sent $50,000 in general player allocation money in exchange for Gonzalo's older brother, a 35-year-old playmaker who joined United in March after eight seasons with the Columbus Crew. "Federico has been a great player in this league," Inter Miami sporting director Paul McDonough said. "We were thrilled to add more attacking depth, experience and playmaking ability to our roster when this opportunity presented itself." Also read: De Bruyne tips England to shine at Euros, World Cup Federico scored two goals in 10 appearances, all as a reserve, for United. He has 60 goals in 2017 MLS matches over nine seasons. "We want to thank Pipa for his time and commitment," DC United general manager Dave Kasper said. "Family is important and Federico personally requested to be reunited with his brother Gonzalo in Miami. We wish him the best of luck in the next chapter of his career." Higuain brothers become the 18th pair (of brothers) to serve as MLS teammates. 32-year-old Gonzalo played for clubs like Real Madrid, Napoli and Juventus. He also was loaned to Milan and Chelsea before bidding goodbye to Juve last month. On Wednesday, Gonzalo scored his first goal with Inter Miami in a 2-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls. (Inputs from AFP)

Major Soccer League: Higuain brothers to play for Inter Miami FC

Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri complimented&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../football-ronaldo-double-fires-juventus-four- points-clear-with-parma-win-275414">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>'s mother as the Portuguese star extended his scoring streak in a 3-1 win over Roma to advance to the Italian Cup semi-finals on Wednesday.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-beats-messi-to-become-most-influential-soccer-player-online-in-china-274930">Cristiano Ronaldo beats Messi to become most 'influential' football player online in China</a>

The Portuguese star picked up a Gonzalo Higuain cross after 26 minutes, finishing off from an angle in the Allianz Stadium.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-cristiano-ronaldo-continues-scoring-streak-to-put-juve-top-of-serie-a-273836">Cristiano Ronaldo continues scoring streak to put Juventus top of Serie A</a>

It was the 34-year-old's 12th goal in eight consecutive games in which he has played in all competitions for the Turin giants but his first in the Italian Cup.

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🔥 <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a> has now scored in 1️⃣5️⃣ different club competitions! 
 
Not bad...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JuveRoma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JuveRoma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CR7Juve?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CR7Juve</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoppaItalia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoppaItalia</a> <a href="https://t.co/2VyGHRMWYi">pic.twitter.com/2VyGHRMWYi</a>
— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/1220112809847148546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has also scored seven goals in four matches played in 2020.

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Our Coppa campaign continues! 🙌🏆<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JuveRoma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JuveRoma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CoppaItalia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CoppaItalia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FinoAllaFine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FinoAllaFine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForzaJuve?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForzaJuve</a> <a href="https://t.co/7j05QmcApy">pic.twitter.com/7j05QmcApy</a>
— JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/1220134184158662659?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I believe that the compliments should be made to his mother," said Sarri of Ronaldo who has now scored in 15 different club competitions throughout his career.

"He is in super form physically. In terms of explosiveness he is doing well, he takes great care of the details.

"It is difficult to improve on an individual level. We are talking about one of the greatest of all time and I would like to help him win a sixth Ballon d'Or.

Rodrigo Bentancur added a second goal after 38 minutes with defender Leonardo Bonucci nodding in a third just before the break.

Cengiz Under pulled a goal back for Roma five minutes after the break, rifling in from a distance with the ball hitting the crossbar and bouncing in off goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon in the Juventus goal.

Buffon denied Alessandro Florenzi and Aleksandar Kolarov to keep Juventus on course in the competition they have won 13 times but exited in the quarter-finals last season to Atalanta.&nbsp;

Brazilian Danilo limped off before the break to be replaced by Juan Cuadrado, leaving Sarri with an injury worry ahead of this weekend's trip to Napoli.

Roma, fourth in the league, were struggling with injuries while Edin Dzeko was sitting out a ban, but their form was worrying just four days before their derby clash against city rivals Lazio.

"The difference in the first half was efficiency," said Roma coach Paulo Fonseca.

"The first chance they had, they scored. The same for the second.

"We know that Edin Dzeko is a very important player for us and his ban was damaging, but the forwards could have done much better this evening."

Juventus&nbsp;who lost the Italian SuperCup last month to Lazio&nbsp;will play either AC Milan or Torino in the semi-finals.

Holders Lazio were eliminated in the quarter-finals on Tuesday with a 1-0 loss to Napoli.

Italy international Lorenzo Insigne needed just 99 seconds to score the goal that won a match in which both teams had a player sent off and Serie A top scorer Ciro Immobile missed a penalty in the first 25 minutes.

AC Milan travel to Torino next Tuesday with Inter Milan hosting Fiorentina.

The final will be played on May 13 in Rome.

Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri complimented Cristiano Ronaldo's mother as the Portuguese star extended his scoring streak in a 3-1 win over Roma to advance to the Italian Cup semi-finals on Wednesday.

Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri complimented Cristiano Ronaldo's mother as the Portuguese star extended his scoring streak in a 3-1 win over Roma to advance to the Italian Cup semi-finals on Wednesday. Also read- Cristiano Ronaldo beats Messi to become most 'influential' football player online in China The Portuguese star picked up a Gonzalo Higuain cross after 26 minutes, finishing off from an angle in the Allianz Stadium. Also read- Cristiano Ronaldo continues scoring streak to put Juventus top of Serie A It was the 34-year-old's 12th goal in eight consecutive games in which he has played in all competitions for the Turin giants but his first in the Italian Cup. 🔥 @Cristiano has now scored in 1️⃣5️⃣ different club competitions! Not bad...#JuveRoma #CR7Juve #CoppaItalia pic.twitter.com/2VyGHRMWYi — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) January 22, 2020 × The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has also scored seven goals in four matches played in 2020. Our Coppa campaign continues! 🙌🏆#JuveRoma #CoppaItalia #FinoAllaFine #ForzaJuve pic.twitter.com/7j05QmcApy — JuventusFC (@juventusfcen) January 23, 2020 × "I believe that the compliments should be made to his mother," said Sarri of Ronaldo who has now scored in 15 different club competitions throughout his career. "He is in super form physically. In terms of explosiveness he is doing well, he takes great care of the details. "It is difficult to improve on an individual level. We are talking about one of the greatest of all time and I would like to help him win a sixth Ballon d'Or. Rodrigo Bentancur added a second goal after 38 minutes with defender Leonardo Bonucci nodding in a third just before the break. Cengiz Under pulled a goal back for Roma five minutes after the break, rifling in from a distance with the ball hitting the crossbar and bouncing in off goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon in the Juventus goal. Buffon denied Alessandro Florenzi and Aleksandar Kolarov to keep Juventus on course in the competition they have won 13 times but exited in the quarter-finals last season to Atalanta. Brazilian Danilo limped off before the break to be replaced by Juan Cuadrado, leaving Sarri with an injury worry ahead of this weekend's trip to Napoli. Roma, fourth in the league, were struggling with injuries while Edin Dzeko was sitting out a ban, but their form was worrying just four days before their derby clash against city rivals Lazio. "The difference in the first half was efficiency," said Roma coach Paulo Fonseca. "The first chance they had, they scored. The same for the second. "We know that Edin Dzeko is a very important player for us and his ban was damaging, but the forwards could have done much better this evening." Juventus who lost the Italian SuperCup last month to Lazio will play either AC Milan or Torino in the semi-finals. Holders Lazio were eliminated in the quarter-finals on Tuesday with a 1-0 loss to Napoli. Italy international Lorenzo Insigne needed just 99 seconds to score the goal that won a match in which both teams had a player sent off and Serie A top scorer Ciro Immobile missed a penalty in the first 25 minutes. AC Milan travel to Torino next Tuesday with Inter Milan hosting Fiorentina. The final will be played on May 13 in Rome.

Mum's the word as Ronaldo fires Juventus into Italian Cup semi-finals

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri, whose future at Stamford Bridge is in question, stomped away from a training session before Wednesday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-and-chelsea-ready-for-final-europa-league-battle-in-distant-baku-222488">Europa League final</a>, visibly angry as he threw his hat to the ground and kicked it.

Video of the incident which took place late on Tuesday showed Sarri exchanging words with defender David Luiz after a robust challenge involving the Brazilian and Argentine striker Gonzalo Higuain.

Sarri, who immediately before the training session had told reporters that he loved his players, was then seen leaving the field along with other staff and team members, tossing his cap to the ground and kicking it in the air.

A Chelsea spokesman said Sarri was frustrated at the media's presence at the end of the session at <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/europa-league-how-arsenal-learnt-from-last-seasons-mistake-aubameyang-elaborates-217434&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwilw-v-wMDiAhUHvI8KHQADBu0QFjABegQIEBAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw3kMmpZSC8N2fq5jFajANjD">Baku's </a>Olympic Stadium, where the team is due to take on London rivals Arsenal on Wednesday.

"Maurizio's frustration displayed at the end of the training was not related to any of his players, but was due to not being able to practise set-plays in the final 15 minutes of the hour-long training session as it remained open to media," the spokesman said.

Watch the video:

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Maurizio Sarri got angry during training in Baku when his team was not allowed to practice set-pieces in the final 15 minutes of an hour long session.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CHEARS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CHEARS</a> <a href="https://t.co/gWei4HeYfV">pic.twitter.com/gWei4HeYfV</a>
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Sarri, who has had an up-and-down first season in London, has displayed flashes of anger on previous occasions while in charge of Chelsea, including in the League Cup final in February when goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga seemed to refuse to be substituted.

Sarri was sent to the stands by a referee in April after becoming embroiled in a scuffle among players of Chelsea and Burnley in a Premier League match.

Asked on Tuesday about media reports that he is close to a return to a coaching job in his native Italy, Sarri said he loved his players and that would be part of his decision about his future.

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri, whose future at Stamford Bridge is in question, stomped away from a training session before Wednesday's Europa League final, visibly angry as he threw his hat to the ground and kicked it.

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri, whose future at Stamford Bridge is in question, stomped away from a training session before Wednesday's Europa League final, visibly angry as he threw his hat to the ground and kicked it. Video of the incident which took place late on Tuesday showed Sarri exchanging words with defender David Luiz after a robust challenge involving the Brazilian and Argentine striker Gonzalo Higuain. Sarri, who immediately before the training session had told reporters that he loved his players, was then seen leaving the field along with other staff and team members, tossing his cap to the ground and kicking it in the air. A Chelsea spokesman said Sarri was frustrated at the media's presence at the end of the session at Baku's Olympic Stadium, where the team is due to take on London rivals Arsenal on Wednesday. "Maurizio's frustration displayed at the end of the training was not related to any of his players, but was due to not being able to practise set-plays in the final 15 minutes of the hour-long training session as it remained open to media," the spokesman said. Watch the video: Maurizio Sarri got angry during training in Baku when his team was not allowed to practice set-pieces in the final 15 minutes of an hour long session.#CFC #CHEARS pic.twitter.com/gWei4HeYfV — ReeceJP (@Reece_JP) May 29, 2019 × Sarri, who has had an up-and-down first season in London, has displayed flashes of anger on previous occasions while in charge of Chelsea, including in the League Cup final in February when goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga seemed to refuse to be substituted. Sarri was sent to the stands by a referee in April after becoming embroiled in a scuffle among players of Chelsea and Burnley in a Premier League match. Asked on Tuesday about media reports that he is close to a return to a coaching job in his native Italy, Sarri said he loved his players and that would be part of his decision about his future.

Watch: Angry Sarri leaves training session on eve of Europa League final

Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud wants to move back to France when his contract expires at the end of the season after growing frustrated by a lack of playing time under manager Maurizio Sarri.

Giroud has not started a Premier League game for Chelsea since the club signed Argentina international striker Gonzalo Higuain in January.

"The future may be hectic this summer," Giroud told French radio station RTL. "I'm not afraid to go down a level to have more playing time. It could be I end my career in France."

The striker, who won the World Cup with France last year, scored 33 goals in 73 league appearances for Montpellier before moving to Arsenal in 2012, and has attracted interest from Olympique Lyonnais, according to reports in the French media.

The 32-year-old has been used mainly in the Europa League by Sarri and is the competition's top scorer this season with nine goals in nine appearances, but does not believe he can force his way into the Italian coach's Premier League plans.

"Today, I have the impression there's clearly no competition (for places in attack) since January. It's like that, I know that I will only play in the Europa League," Giroud added.

"I try to do what it takes to be as effective and as important as I can for the team."

Chelsea are sixth in the Premier League, three points below the fourth and final Champions League qualification place currently occupied by Arsenal.

Sarri's side could also secure Champions League football for next season by winning the Europa League, where they face Slavia Prague in the quarter-finals.

Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud wants to move back to France when his contract expires at the end of the season after growing frustrated by a lack of playing time under manager Maurizio Sarri.

Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud wants to move back to France when his contract expires at the end of the season after growing frustrated by a lack of playing time under manager Maurizio Sarri. Giroud has not started a Premier League game for Chelsea since the club signed Argentina international striker Gonzalo Higuain in January. "The future may be hectic this summer," Giroud told French radio station RTL. "I'm not afraid to go down a level to have more playing time. It could be I end my career in France." The striker, who won the World Cup with France last year, scored 33 goals in 73 league appearances for Montpellier before moving to Arsenal in 2012, and has attracted interest from Olympique Lyonnais, according to reports in the French media. The 32-year-old has been used mainly in the Europa League by Sarri and is the competition's top scorer this season with nine goals in nine appearances, but does not believe he can force his way into the Italian coach's Premier League plans. "Today, I have the impression there's clearly no competition (for places in attack) since January. It's like that, I know that I will only play in the Europa League," Giroud added. "I try to do what it takes to be as effective and as important as I can for the team." Chelsea are sixth in the Premier League, three points below the fourth and final Champions League qualification place currently occupied by Arsenal. Sarri's side could also secure Champions League football for next season by winning the Europa League, where they face Slavia Prague in the quarter-finals.

Chelsea's Giroud seeks France return to boost game time

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard is convinced that he can form a great partnership with the club's new striker Gonzalo Higuain after playing two matches together.

Chelsea signed Higuain on loan from Juventus last month and the Argentina striker scored twice in last week's 5-0 thumping of the Premier League's bottom club Huddersfield Town.

Hazard, who also scored two goals in that game at Stamford Bridge, said he was already enjoying playing alongside the former Real Madrid and Napoli striker.

"I've only played two games with Higuain and I know we can do something great together, not only with him but also with the other strikers, the other winger," Hazard told The Times ahead of Sunday's league meeting with Manchester City.

"Chelsea is not about Higuain and Hazard, it is about 25 players. But Higuain is a fantastic striker."

Victory over Huddersfield followed league defeats by Arsenal and Bournemouth where midfielder Jorginho was man-marked to nullify the Italy international's influence.

"If one guy is marking him all the time, we need to adapt also. Jorginho is always trying to be free to take the ball to create something. He's a fantastic player," Hazard said.

Manager Maurizio Sarri has also faced questions about his insistence on playing N'Golo Kante on the right side of midfield instead of in his natural holding role, but Hazard believes the Frenchman has to adapt.

"N'Golo's a clever guy, one of the best in his position, maybe the best in the world. N'Golo now plays six months in the different position. He needs to adapt," Hazard said.

"When we win, everyone will say, 'yes, he plays in his (best) position, and if we lose everyone will say, 'no, he needs to go a bit behind'. Depends only on the result."

Hazard said Chelsea still need time to adapt to Sarri's possession-based style of play, which contrasts to the counter-attacking football of previous managers Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho.

"Sometimes we keep possession, and I understand the fans want us to go forward (more directly), but it is part of the football," Hazard said.

"We are still learning about his concept. We are doing well. I like this kind of football."

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard is convinced that he can form a great partnership with the club's new striker Gonzalo Higuain after playing two matches together. Chelsea signed Higuain on loan from Juventus last month and the Argentina striker scored twice in last week's 5-0 thumping of the Premier League's bottom club Huddersfield Town.

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard is convinced that he can form a great partnership with the club's new striker Gonzalo Higuain after playing two matches together. Chelsea signed Higuain on loan from Juventus last month and the Argentina striker scored twice in last week's 5-0 thumping of the Premier League's bottom club Huddersfield Town. Hazard, who also scored two goals in that game at Stamford Bridge, said he was already enjoying playing alongside the former Real Madrid and Napoli striker. "I've only played two games with Higuain and I know we can do something great together, not only with him but also with the other strikers, the other winger," Hazard told The Times ahead of Sunday's league meeting with Manchester City. "Chelsea is not about Higuain and Hazard, it is about 25 players. But Higuain is a fantastic striker." Victory over Huddersfield followed league defeats by Arsenal and Bournemouth where midfielder Jorginho was man-marked to nullify the Italy international's influence. "If one guy is marking him all the time, we need to adapt also. Jorginho is always trying to be free to take the ball to create something. He's a fantastic player," Hazard said. Manager Maurizio Sarri has also faced questions about his insistence on playing N'Golo Kante on the right side of midfield instead of in his natural holding role, but Hazard believes the Frenchman has to adapt. "N'Golo's a clever guy, one of the best in his position, maybe the best in the world. N'Golo now plays six months in the different position. He needs to adapt," Hazard said. "When we win, everyone will say, 'yes, he plays in his (best) position, and if we lose everyone will say, 'no, he needs to go a bit behind'. Depends only on the result." Hazard said Chelsea still need time to adapt to Sarri's possession-based style of play, which contrasts to the counter-attacking football of previous managers Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho. "Sometimes we keep possession, and I understand the fans want us to go forward (more directly), but it is part of the football," Hazard said. "We are still learning about his concept. We are doing well. I like this kind of football."

Chelsea's Eden Hazard relishing partnership with Gonzalo Higuain

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard described new signing Gonzalo Higuain as "unbelievable" in the box after the Argentina international scored twice in Saturday's 5-0 thrashing of the Premier League's bottom side Huddersfield Town.

Chelsea signed Higuain in January and bounced back from a disappointing 4-0 defeat at Bournemouth in midweek with a rampant performance against Town, with both Hazard and Higuain netting two goals each.

"We all needed that," Belgium international Hazard told Chelsea's TV channel. "We did well, so just happy with the result, the way we played today, especially after the game on Wednesday.

"It was hard but I think the manager wanted us to respond and we did."

Higuain worked under Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri at Napoli, scoring 38 times in their final season together at the Italian side in 2015-16.

Hazard said he had benefited from training with Higuain for the past 10 days and backed his new team mate to be a success in England.

"We've improved together," he said. "We've trained together now for 10 days. He's a great striker... he can hold the ball, he can play one touch, he's intelligent. In the box he's unbelievable, so he will score more goals, I think."

Next up for Chelsea is an away game against Manchester City, who host Arsenal in the league later on Sunday.

Hazard believes his team have a good chance of beating defending champions City for the second time this season.

Chelsea won the reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge 2-0 at the start of December.

"We need to be focused," Hazard added. "It's going to be a different game than two or three months ago. I think they will have the ball, because it's City, they have these sort of players to play together.

"But we will defend well and then we will score one goal or two."

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard described new signing Gonzalo Higuain as "unbelievable" in the box after the Argentina international scored twice in Saturday's 5-0 thrashing of the Premier League's bottom side Huddersfield Town.

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard described new signing Gonzalo Higuain as "unbelievable" in the box after the Argentina international scored twice in Saturday's 5-0 thrashing of the Premier League's bottom side Huddersfield Town. Chelsea signed Higuain in January and bounced back from a disappointing 4-0 defeat at Bournemouth in midweek with a rampant performance against Town, with both Hazard and Higuain netting two goals each. "We all needed that," Belgium international Hazard told Chelsea's TV channel. "We did well, so just happy with the result, the way we played today, especially after the game on Wednesday. "It was hard but I think the manager wanted us to respond and we did." Higuain worked under Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri at Napoli, scoring 38 times in their final season together at the Italian side in 2015-16. Hazard said he had benefited from training with Higuain for the past 10 days and backed his new team mate to be a success in England. "We've improved together," he said. "We've trained together now for 10 days. He's a great striker... he can hold the ball, he can play one touch, he's intelligent. In the box he's unbelievable, so he will score more goals, I think." Next up for Chelsea is an away game against Manchester City, who host Arsenal in the league later on Sunday. Hazard believes his team have a good chance of beating defending champions City for the second time this season. Chelsea won the reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge 2-0 at the start of December. "We need to be focused," Hazard added. "It's going to be a different game than two or three months ago. I think they will have the ball, because it's City, they have these sort of players to play together. "But we will defend well and then we will score one goal or two."

Chelsea's Eden Hazard backs new signing Higuain to succeed in England

New Chelsea striker Gonzalo Higuain scored his first two Premier League goals on Saturday, sharing the spoils with Eden Hazard in a 5-0 victory over bottom side Huddersfield Town to ease the pressure on coach Maurizio Sarri.

Argentine Higuain, who arrived in London last month, received a neat side-footed pass from N'Golo Kante in the 16th minute and squeezed a shot between goalkeeper Jonas Loessl and the near post.

Just before halftime Hazard converted a penalty for his 11th league goal of the season after Elias Kachunga brought down Chelsea fullback Cesar Azpilicueta on the edge of the area and referee Paul Tierney pointed at the spot.

The Belgian then got his 12 in the 67th minute by rounding Loessl and coolly slotting home from a Ross Barkley pass.

Two minutes later Higuain added his second, a looping shot taking a deflection before hitting the back of the net. David Luiz made it five in the 86th minute, his header helped into the goal by the hapless Kachunga's outstretched foot.

Chelsea had lost their previous two league games, including a 4-0 drubbing by mid-table Bournemouth on Wednesday, sparking talk that coach Maurizio Sarri might become the latest in a string of their managers to be fired after just a few months.

But the win took Chelsea back to fourth place above Arsenal, who play at Manchester City on Sunday, while Huddersfield remains rooted to the basement, six points behind second-bottom Fulham.

New Chelsea striker Gonzalo Higuain scored his first two Premier League goals on Saturday, sharing the spoils with Eden Hazard in a 5-0 victory over bottom side Huddersfield Town to ease the pressure on coach Maurizio Sarri.

New Chelsea striker Gonzalo Higuain scored his first two Premier League goals on Saturday, sharing the spoils with Eden Hazard in a 5-0 victory over bottom side Huddersfield Town to ease the pressure on coach Maurizio Sarri. Argentine Higuain, who arrived in London last month, received a neat side-footed pass from N'Golo Kante in the 16th minute and squeezed a shot between goalkeeper Jonas Loessl and the near post. Just before halftime Hazard converted a penalty for his 11th league goal of the season after Elias Kachunga brought down Chelsea fullback Cesar Azpilicueta on the edge of the area and referee Paul Tierney pointed at the spot. The Belgian then got his 12 in the 67th minute by rounding Loessl and coolly slotting home from a Ross Barkley pass. Two minutes later Higuain added his second, a looping shot taking a deflection before hitting the back of the net. David Luiz made it five in the 86th minute, his header helped into the goal by the hapless Kachunga's outstretched foot. Chelsea had lost their previous two league games, including a 4-0 drubbing by mid-table Bournemouth on Wednesday, sparking talk that coach Maurizio Sarri might become the latest in a string of their managers to be fired after just a few months. But the win took Chelsea back to fourth place above Arsenal, who play at Manchester City on Sunday, while Huddersfield remains rooted to the basement, six points behind second-bottom Fulham.

Higuain scores twice in 5-0 Chelsea drubbing of Huddersfield

Chelsea's Willian struck twice and Callum Hudson-Odoi was also on target as the FA Cup holders enjoyed a 3-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday to reach the fifth round on Sunday with new signing Gonzalo Higuain making his debut.

Brazil international Willian struck with a delightful side-footed volley from distance seven minutes from time to double his tally after converting a first-half penalty.

Hudson-Odoi, a reported transfer target of German giants Bayern Munich, had earlier collected a long pass from the left and cut in beautifully to slot home in the second half.

"I thought we did well," Hudson-Odoi told the BBC. "It was a great team performance. We did very well in training and worked really hard. That's one of my highlights. It was nice to top it off with a goal."

Asked if it was his last game for Chelsea, with the transfer window closing on Thursday, the 18-year-old added: "I don't know, I can't say. I'll keep working hard and you never know what will happen."

Sheffield Wednesday had been awarded a penalty in the 22nd minute after Chelsea midfielder Ethan Ampadu appeared to bring down the advancing Joey Pelupessy, only for the video assistant referee (VAR) to overturn the original decision.

The referee pointed to the spot at the other end two minutes later as Chelsea skipper Cesar Azpilicueta was taken out by Sam Hutchinson, with VAR confirming that the defender was fouled.

After a chat with Higuain, who joined Chelsea on loan from Juventus this week, Willian sent Wednesday's Keiren Westwood the wrong way to give Chelsea the lead after 26 minutes and added his second goal late on after Hudson-Odoi scored in the 64th.

The 31-year-old Higuain looked sharp with some intelligent runs before coming off for Olivier Giroud with 10 minutes to go.

"We're pleased with Higuain's performance, he was trying to find the space and get on the ball. It wasn't easy as they had a lot of players around him," Chelsea assistant manager Gianfranco Zola said of the Argentina striker's contribution.

"It's a good result, we're very happy. We know how difficult these cup ties can be. Everyone made a really good effort."

Chelsea's Willian struck twice and Callum Hudson-Odoi was also on target as the FA Cup holders enjoyed a 3-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday to reach the fifth round on Sunday with new signing Gonzalo Higuain making his debut.

Chelsea's Willian struck twice and Callum Hudson-Odoi was also on target as the FA Cup holders enjoyed a 3-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday to reach the fifth round on Sunday with new signing Gonzalo Higuain making his debut. Brazil international Willian struck with a delightful side-footed volley from distance seven minutes from time to double his tally after converting a first-half penalty. Hudson-Odoi, a reported transfer target of German giants Bayern Munich, had earlier collected a long pass from the left and cut in beautifully to slot home in the second half. "I thought we did well," Hudson-Odoi told the BBC. "It was a great team performance. We did very well in training and worked really hard. That's one of my highlights. It was nice to top it off with a goal." Asked if it was his last game for Chelsea, with the transfer window closing on Thursday, the 18-year-old added: "I don't know, I can't say. I'll keep working hard and you never know what will happen." Sheffield Wednesday had been awarded a penalty in the 22nd minute after Chelsea midfielder Ethan Ampadu appeared to bring down the advancing Joey Pelupessy, only for the video assistant referee (VAR) to overturn the original decision. The referee pointed to the spot at the other end two minutes later as Chelsea skipper Cesar Azpilicueta was taken out by Sam Hutchinson, with VAR confirming that the defender was fouled. After a chat with Higuain, who joined Chelsea on loan from Juventus this week, Willian sent Wednesday's Keiren Westwood the wrong way to give Chelsea the lead after 26 minutes and added his second goal late on after Hudson-Odoi scored in the 64th. The 31-year-old Higuain looked sharp with some intelligent runs before coming off for Olivier Giroud with 10 minutes to go. "We're pleased with Higuain's performance, he was trying to find the space and get on the ball. It wasn't easy as they had a lot of players around him," Chelsea assistant manager Gianfranco Zola said of the Argentina striker's contribution. "It's a good result, we're very happy. We know how difficult these cup ties can be. Everyone made a really good effort."

FA Cup: Willian double helps Chelsea beat Sheffield on Gonzalo Higuain debut

Chelsea have completed the signing of Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain, who will join the club on loan from Juventus until the end of the season, the Premier League club said on Wednesday.

Higuain joins Chelsea after his year-long loan spell with AC Milan was cut to less than six months. The deal reunites the striker with Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri, who was manager of Napoli when Higuain was at the club.

"When the opportunity to join Chelsea presented itself I had to take it. It’s a team I’ve always liked that has a lot of history, a wonderful stadium and they play in the Premier League, a league I’ve always wanted to play in," Higuain said in a statement on the Chelsea website.

"I now hope I can give back that trust Chelsea have shown me out on the pitch. I can’t wait to start and I hope to adapt as soon as possible."

The deal, however, has come too late for him to face Tottenham Hotspur in the League Cup semi-final, second leg on Thursday.

The 31-year-old did not sign before Wednesday's midday deadline and cannot therefore play against Spurs at Stamford Bridge in a match Chelsea trail 1-0 from the first leg.

Higuain's spell at Milan started with six goals in seven games but he has only scored once in his last 12 appearances.

Sarri hopes he will rediscover the form that saw him score 38 times in their final season together at Napoli in 2015-16.

"He has had some difficulties recently, but we're hoping we can raise him back to his best form," Sarri told reporters on Wednesday.

"He's still scored eight goals in a team that isn't at the same level as Juventus.

"He's a very strong striker. Especially in my first season in Naples. He scored 36 goals in 35 matches in Serie A. For sure, he is one of the best strikers in my career."

Difficult Market

Sarri was keen to boost his goalscoring options after dropping misfiring Spain forward Alvaro Morata and deploying playmaker Eden Hazard as a 'false nine' in recent games.

Asked if the arrival of Higuain was a sign that the club are behind him, Sarri said: "I hope so. I think the club agree with me when I told them my opinion about the team.

"The January market is very difficult, especially for a striker. It's very difficult in January to find one of the most important strikers in the world."

Chelsea are in the fourth and final Champions League qualifying spot in the Premier League standings, three points ahead of Arsenal who beat them 2-0 on Saturday.

Higuain moved to Milan from Juventus on loan in August in a complex three-way deal which also saw defender Mattia Caldara move from the Turin side to the seven-times European champions and Leondardo Bonucci move in the other direction.

Milan paid 18 million euros (16.03 million pounds) for a one-year loan with an option to buy when Higuain became surplus to requirements at Juventus following their signing of Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo.

After joining Juventus from Napoli in 2016, Higuain won Serie A and Coppa Italia titles in each of his first two seasons with Juve and netted 55 goals in 105 appearances in all competitions, including 40 in 73 Serie A outings.

He told Gazzetta dello Sport in an interview in October that he was "sent away" by Juventus and had not wanted to leave, although there were no hard feelings.

Deprived of the service he enjoyed at Juventus and previously at Napoli, he scored only eight goals in 22 appearances for Milan -- well below his usual prolific best.

Higuain has faced criticism that he fails to make an impact on the big occasion.

He is often remembered for the miss in the 2014 World Cup final against Germany where a mistake left him with only goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to beat and he fired wide of the goal. Argentina went on to lose the match 1-0 after extra time.

Chelsea have completed the signing of Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain, who will join the club on loan from Juventus until the end of the season, the Premier League club said on Wednesday.

Chelsea have completed the signing of Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain, who will join the club on loan from Juventus until the end of the season, the Premier League club said on Wednesday. Higuain joins Chelsea after his year-long loan spell with AC Milan was cut to less than six months. The deal reunites the striker with Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri, who was manager of Napoli when Higuain was at the club. "When the opportunity to join Chelsea presented itself I had to take it. It’s a team I’ve always liked that has a lot of history, a wonderful stadium and they play in the Premier League, a league I’ve always wanted to play in," Higuain said in a statement on the Chelsea website. "I now hope I can give back that trust Chelsea have shown me out on the pitch. I can’t wait to start and I hope to adapt as soon as possible." The deal, however, has come too late for him to face Tottenham Hotspur in the League Cup semi-final, second leg on Thursday. The 31-year-old did not sign before Wednesday's midday deadline and cannot therefore play against Spurs at Stamford Bridge in a match Chelsea trail 1-0 from the first leg. Higuain's spell at Milan started with six goals in seven games but he has only scored once in his last 12 appearances. Sarri hopes he will rediscover the form that saw him score 38 times in their final season together at Napoli in 2015-16. "He has had some difficulties recently, but we're hoping we can raise him back to his best form," Sarri told reporters on Wednesday. "He's still scored eight goals in a team that isn't at the same level as Juventus. "He's a very strong striker. Especially in my first season in Naples. He scored 36 goals in 35 matches in Serie A. For sure, he is one of the best strikers in my career." Difficult Market Sarri was keen to boost his goalscoring options after dropping misfiring Spain forward Alvaro Morata and deploying playmaker Eden Hazard as a 'false nine' in recent games. Asked if the arrival of Higuain was a sign that the club are behind him, Sarri said: "I hope so. I think the club agree with me when I told them my opinion about the team. "The January market is very difficult, especially for a striker. It's very difficult in January to find one of the most important strikers in the world." Chelsea are in the fourth and final Champions League qualifying spot in the Premier League standings, three points ahead of Arsenal who beat them 2-0 on Saturday. Higuain moved to Milan from Juventus on loan in August in a complex three-way deal which also saw defender Mattia Caldara move from the Turin side to the seven-times European champions and Leondardo Bonucci move in the other direction. Milan paid 18 million euros (16.03 million pounds) for a one-year loan with an option to buy when Higuain became surplus to requirements at Juventus following their signing of Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo. After joining Juventus from Napoli in 2016, Higuain won Serie A and Coppa Italia titles in each of his first two seasons with Juve and netted 55 goals in 105 appearances in all competitions, including 40 in 73 Serie A outings. He told Gazzetta dello Sport in an interview in October that he was "sent away" by Juventus and had not wanted to leave, although there were no hard feelings. Deprived of the service he enjoyed at Juventus and previously at Napoli, he scored only eight goals in 22 appearances for Milan -- well below his usual prolific best. Higuain has faced criticism that he fails to make an impact on the big occasion. He is often remembered for the miss in the 2014 World Cup final against Germany where a mistake left him with only goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to beat and he fired wide of the goal. Argentina went on to lose the match 1-0 after extra time.

Gonzalo Higuain completes Chelsea loan deal from Juventus

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign striker <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Gonzalo+Higuain">Gonzalo Higuain</a> on loan from Juventus until the end of the season, according to reports in the British media.

The Argentina international joined the Italian champions in 2016 but was loaned to AC Milan at the start of the current season where he has scored eight goals in 22 appearances this term.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri is keen to strengthen his options in attack after dropping misfiring Spain forward Alvaro Morata to the bench and being forced to deploy playmaker Eden Hazard as a 'false nine' in recent games.

Sarri worked with Higuain when he was manager at Napoli and it was under the Italian that the striker scored 36 goals to equal the Serie A record for most goals in a season in 2015-16.

Sky Sports reported on Wednesday that the loan deal for Higuain could be extended for another 12 months subject to certain conditions.

Higuain's arrival could see Chelsea sanction a loan move for Morata, who is in talks with boyhood club Atletico Madrid about a return to Spain's La Liga.

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign striker Gonzalo Higuain on loan from Juventus until the end of the season, according to reports in the British media. The Argentina international joined the Italian champions in 2016 but was loaned to AC Milan at the start of the current season where he has scored eight goals in 22 appearances this term.

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign striker Gonzalo Higuain on loan from Juventus until the end of the season, according to reports in the British media. The Argentina international joined the Italian champions in 2016 but was loaned to AC Milan at the start of the current season where he has scored eight goals in 22 appearances this term. Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri is keen to strengthen his options in attack after dropping misfiring Spain forward Alvaro Morata to the bench and being forced to deploy playmaker Eden Hazard as a 'false nine' in recent games. Sarri worked with Higuain when he was manager at Napoli and it was under the Italian that the striker scored 36 goals to equal the Serie A record for most goals in a season in 2015-16. Sky Sports reported on Wednesday that the loan deal for Higuain could be extended for another 12 months subject to certain conditions. Higuain's arrival could see Chelsea sanction a loan move for Morata, who is in talks with boyhood club Atletico Madrid about a return to Spain's La Liga.

Chelsea agree Gonzalo Higuain loan from Juventus: Reports

Cristiano Ronaldo’s second-half goal secured a record eighth Italian Super Cup victory for Juventus as they beat AC Milan 1-0 in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah on Wednesday.

The trophy, which was being contested outside of Italy for the 10th time, is traditionally a clash between the Italian league and cup winners, but Milan qualified as Coppa Italia runners-up after Juve clinched the domestic double last season.

Striker Gonzalo Higuain was dropped to the Milan bench amid media rumours of an imminent move to Chelsea, with some pre-match reports suggesting he was struggling with a fever.

Yet it was Juve’s Portuguese talisman Ronaldo who again stole the show with a winning goal that sealed the Turin club’s eighth Supercoppa win to make them the competition’s most successful team with one more trophy than Milan.

“It was a very difficult match, it’s very warm and hard to play in these conditions,” Ronaldo told Italian broadcasters.

“It was my intention to start 2019 with a trophy, I have my first title with Juve and I am very happy," he added.

“It is only the start, we take it one step at a time. We’ve got this cup, now we must keep working hard to achieve the next trophy.

“Serie A is always Juve’s principal objective, we are top of the table, but it’s a very long competition and it’s going to be tough, so we need to keep working.”

There were few clear chances in a balanced first half, Ronaldo going closest with an acrobatic volley that bounced off the ground and skimmed the crossbar before Milan winger Hakan Calhanoglu’s snapshot drew a smart save from Wojciech Szczesny.

Patrick Cutrone was inches away from putting Milan in front when his powerful shot cannoned back off the crossbar just three minutes after the break.

But it was Juve who struck first as Ronaldo latched onto Miralem Pjanic’s clipped through ball to head past Gianluigi Donnarumma with just over an hour played.

Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso introduced Higuain for the final 20 minutes as he looked for a route back into the game, but his side’s challenge petered out after Franck Kessie was sent off for a stamp on Emre Can following a VAR review.

There were furious protests from Milan late on when their appeals for a penalty were ignored after Can challenged Andrea Conti inside the box.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s second-half goal secured a record eighth Italian Super Cup victory for Juventus as they beat AC Milan 1-0 in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah on Wednesday.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s second-half goal secured a record eighth Italian Super Cup victory for Juventus as they beat AC Milan 1-0 in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah on Wednesday. The trophy, which was being contested outside of Italy for the 10th time, is traditionally a clash between the Italian league and cup winners, but Milan qualified as Coppa Italia runners-up after Juve clinched the domestic double last season. Striker Gonzalo Higuain was dropped to the Milan bench amid media rumours of an imminent move to Chelsea, with some pre-match reports suggesting he was struggling with a fever. Yet it was Juve’s Portuguese talisman Ronaldo who again stole the show with a winning goal that sealed the Turin club’s eighth Supercoppa win to make them the competition’s most successful team with one more trophy than Milan. “It was a very difficult match, it’s very warm and hard to play in these conditions,” Ronaldo told Italian broadcasters. “It was my intention to start 2019 with a trophy, I have my first title with Juve and I am very happy," he added. “It is only the start, we take it one step at a time. We’ve got this cup, now we must keep working hard to achieve the next trophy. “Serie A is always Juve’s principal objective, we are top of the table, but it’s a very long competition and it’s going to be tough, so we need to keep working.” There were few clear chances in a balanced first half, Ronaldo going closest with an acrobatic volley that bounced off the ground and skimmed the crossbar before Milan winger Hakan Calhanoglu’s snapshot drew a smart save from Wojciech Szczesny. Patrick Cutrone was inches away from putting Milan in front when his powerful shot cannoned back off the crossbar just three minutes after the break. But it was Juve who struck first as Ronaldo latched onto Miralem Pjanic’s clipped through ball to head past Gianluigi Donnarumma with just over an hour played. Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso introduced Higuain for the final 20 minutes as he looked for a route back into the game, but his side’s challenge petered out after Franck Kessie was sent off for a stamp on Emre Can following a VAR review. There were furious protests from Milan late on when their appeals for a penalty were ignored after Can challenged Andrea Conti inside the box.

Cristiano Ronaldo secures Italian Super Cup glory for Juventus

Gonzalo Higuain has made up his mind to leave AC Milan, coach Gennaro Gattuso said on Saturday amid speculation linking the striker to Premier League side Chelsea.

Higuain joined Milan on a season-long loan from Juventus in July with an option to make the deal permanent, but he has struggled to settle at the San Siro, scoring eight goals in all competitions.

The 31-year-old again drew a blank in AC Milan's 2-0 Italian Cup win over Sampdoria on Saturday as substitute Patrick Cutrone netted a double in extra time.

"When a player makes up his mind it becomes hard to convince them otherwise," said Gattuso of Higuain.

"I have a relationship with him that features great honesty, we say things to one another's face.

"At the moment, he's our player and we're holding on tightly to him. I don't know what will happen."

The Argentina international reportedly wants to join his former Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri at Chelsea.

Milan paid 18 million euros ($20.75 million) to sign him on loan, with a clause to make the deal permanent for a further 36 million euros.

Higuain had his most successful season under Sarri, breaking the Serie A goalscoring record with 36 goals in the 2015/16 campaign.

"I've talked to him a great deal, but it's hard to give advice, because the career of a player only lasts 13-14 years," continued Gattuso.&nbsp;

"It's his mind, not mine. The most important thing is to talk as men, look each other in the eyes and speak the truth.

"I still don't understand what Higuain's unhappy about, because I see a happy lad, involved in the locker room.

"We'll see what happens. If it was up to me, I'd keep him at my house and feed him my dinner."

Gonzalo Higuain has made up his mind to leave AC Milan, coach Gennaro Gattuso said on Saturday amid speculation linking the striker to Premier League side Chelsea.

Gonzalo Higuain has made up his mind to leave AC Milan, coach Gennaro Gattuso said on Saturday amid speculation linking the striker to Premier League side Chelsea. Higuain joined Milan on a season-long loan from Juventus in July with an option to make the deal permanent, but he has struggled to settle at the San Siro, scoring eight goals in all competitions. The 31-year-old again drew a blank in AC Milan's 2-0 Italian Cup win over Sampdoria on Saturday as substitute Patrick Cutrone netted a double in extra time. "When a player makes up his mind it becomes hard to convince them otherwise," said Gattuso of Higuain. "I have a relationship with him that features great honesty, we say things to one another's face. "At the moment, he's our player and we're holding on tightly to him. I don't know what will happen." The Argentina international reportedly wants to join his former Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri at Chelsea. Milan paid 18 million euros ($20.75 million) to sign him on loan, with a clause to make the deal permanent for a further 36 million euros. Higuain had his most successful season under Sarri, breaking the Serie A goalscoring record with 36 goals in the 2015/16 campaign. "I've talked to him a great deal, but it's hard to give advice, because the career of a player only lasts 13-14 years," continued Gattuso. "It's his mind, not mine. The most important thing is to talk as men, look each other in the eyes and speak the truth. "I still don't understand what Higuain's unhappy about, because I see a happy lad, involved in the locker room. "We'll see what happens. If it was up to me, I'd keep him at my house and feed him my dinner."

Gonzalo Higuain determined to leave, says AC Milan coach Gattuso

Five talking points from the Serie A weekend after leaders Juventus beat AS Roma 1-0 to make it 16 wins in 17 matches and Napoli stayed eight points behind with a 1-0 win over SPAL.

Why is former Milan Captain Monyolivo not playing?

Former AC Milan captain Riccardo Montolivo has yet to make an appearance this season despite the team being ravaged by injuries.

AC Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso has insisted that he has nothing against the 33-year-old and that the door is open.

Yet, even when is included in the squad in the first place, Montolivo is left sitting on the bench as he was for Saturday's 1-0 home defeat by Fiorentina in what Gattuso describes as a "technical choice."

Montolivo sent off on his last appearance against Atalanta at the end of last season, is in his seventh season at Milan although he has been unlucky with injuries.

A regular for Italy at one point, he missed the 2014 World Cup after suffering a broken leg in a pre-tournament friendly and also suffered a knee injury which made him miss most of the 2016-17 season.

Montolivo himself has remained silent although is agent Giovanni Branchini told Italian media on Saturday that Gattuso's treatment of the player had "gone beyond the limits of logic."

Mandzukic is JUVE'S man for the big occasion

Mario Mandzukic continued his record of scoring goals that matter this season when he gave Juventus their 1-0 win over AS Roma on Saturday.

The Croatia World Cup runner-up has also scored in all of Juve's matches against other teams from the top five the 2-0 win over Lazio, the 1-0 win over Inter Milan, the 3-1 win over Napoli and the 2-0 win over AC Milan.

"Mario is an extraordinary player, at both a technical and physical level," said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri.

Higuain suffer his longest&nbsp;drought in Italy

Mandzukic's former teammate Gonzalo Higuain, on the other hand, continued to struggle following his loan from Juventus to AC Milan as he completed his eighth game in all competitions without scoring on Saturday.

It is his longest drought since he moved to Italy in 2013, joining Napoli from Real Madrid.

The 31-year-old was again deprived of service, often dropping back into his own half to look for the ball.

The Argentine struck 92 goals in 147 appearances in three seasons for Napoli and 55 goals in 110 matches in two seasons at Juventus.

Despite the current barren patch, his overall scoring rate for Milan is not far behind at eight goals in 17 outings.

Schick also struggling at Roma

Higuain is not the only out-of-touch striker&nbsp;AS Roma's Patrik Schick has only scored four times in 42 outings in his one-and-a-half seasons at the club.

The Czech has managed one Serie A goal so far this season, against his former club Sampdoria and struck another blank at Juventus on Saturday.

"Patrik played 90 minutes because I felt he was having a good game," said coach Eusebio Di Francesco. "I expect a striker like him to have more shots on goal but he did what I asked of him and put in a good shift for the team."

Mazzarri&nbsp;latest var outburst

Torino coach Walter Mazzarri's was on the warpath again after his side drew 1-1 at Sassuolo.

Iago Falque had what would have been a stoppage-time winner disallowed for offside following a VAR review, however, Mazzarri was more angry about a penalty he said should have been awarded for a foul on Simone Zaza.

"For us, it was a clear penalty and we do not understand why the referee did not ask to see it again," he said. "I'm angry at both our mistakes and for the refereeing incidents. In my opinion, the penalty was quite obvious."

Five talking points from the Serie A weekend after leaders Juventus beat AS Roma 1-0 to make it 16 wins in 17 matches and Napoli stayed eight points behind with a 1-0 win over SPAL.

Five talking points from the Serie A weekend after leaders Juventus beat AS Roma 1-0 to make it 16 wins in 17 matches and Napoli stayed eight points behind with a 1-0 win over SPAL. Why is former Milan Captain Monyolivo not playing? Former AC Milan captain Riccardo Montolivo has yet to make an appearance this season despite the team being ravaged by injuries. AC Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso has insisted that he has nothing against the 33-year-old and that the door is open. Yet, even when is included in the squad in the first place, Montolivo is left sitting on the bench as he was for Saturday's 1-0 home defeat by Fiorentina in what Gattuso describes as a "technical choice." Montolivo sent off on his last appearance against Atalanta at the end of last season, is in his seventh season at Milan although he has been unlucky with injuries. A regular for Italy at one point, he missed the 2014 World Cup after suffering a broken leg in a pre-tournament friendly and also suffered a knee injury which made him miss most of the 2016-17 season. Montolivo himself has remained silent although is agent Giovanni Branchini told Italian media on Saturday that Gattuso's treatment of the player had "gone beyond the limits of logic." Mandzukic is JUVE'S man for the big occasion Mario Mandzukic continued his record of scoring goals that matter this season when he gave Juventus their 1-0 win over AS Roma on Saturday. The Croatia World Cup runner-up has also scored in all of Juve's matches against other teams from the top five the 2-0 win over Lazio, the 1-0 win over Inter Milan, the 3-1 win over Napoli and the 2-0 win over AC Milan. "Mario is an extraordinary player, at both a technical and physical level," said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri. Higuain suffer his longest drought in Italy Mandzukic's former teammate Gonzalo Higuain, on the other hand, continued to struggle following his loan from Juventus to AC Milan as he completed his eighth game in all competitions without scoring on Saturday. It is his longest drought since he moved to Italy in 2013, joining Napoli from Real Madrid. The 31-year-old was again deprived of service, often dropping back into his own half to look for the ball. The Argentine struck 92 goals in 147 appearances in three seasons for Napoli and 55 goals in 110 matches in two seasons at Juventus. Despite the current barren patch, his overall scoring rate for Milan is not far behind at eight goals in 17 outings. Schick also struggling at Roma Higuain is not the only out-of-touch striker AS Roma's Patrik Schick has only scored four times in 42 outings in his one-and-a-half seasons at the club. The Czech has managed one Serie A goal so far this season, against his former club Sampdoria and struck another blank at Juventus on Saturday. "Patrik played 90 minutes because I felt he was having a good game," said coach Eusebio Di Francesco. "I expect a striker like him to have more shots on goal but he did what I asked of him and put in a good shift for the team." Mazzarri latest var outburst Torino coach Walter Mazzarri's was on the warpath again after his side drew 1-1 at Sassuolo. Iago Falque had what would have been a stoppage-time winner disallowed for offside following a VAR review, however, Mazzarri was more angry about a penalty he said should have been awarded for a foul on Simone Zaza. "For us, it was a clear penalty and we do not understand why the referee did not ask to see it again," he said. "I'm angry at both our mistakes and for the refereeing incidents. In my opinion, the penalty was quite obvious."

Talking-points from the Serie A weekend

AC Milan forward Gonzalo Higuain has apologised for getting dismissed against Juventus, the club that sent him to San Siro on loan this season, during a 2-0 defeat on Sunday in which he also missed a first-half penalty.

Enraged after being penalised following a collision with Juventus defender Medhi Benatia, the former Real Madrid and Napoli forward was booked for dissent, then given another yellow immediately afterwards for continuing to protest.

"First of all, I want to apologise to the team, the coach, the supporters and the referee for my reaction," Higuain said.&nbsp;

"I take responsibility for what happened. Obviously, I hope that it doesn`t happen again. It was one of those moments -- we were losing, I missed a penalty and we aren`t robots but people. But I don`t want to try and justify my actions."

Juventus loaned Higuain to Milan for one year -- with an option to buy -- in August after signing Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid, and the Argentine reiterated that it was not his decision to leave.

"It was taken by others, not by me. I have always given everything in Turin," said Higuain, who scored 55 goals in 105 appearances for Juventus, including 40 in 73 outings in Serie A.

"Now I`m at Milan and I`m fine here. I am a very emotional person and player, so sometimes it is difficult to contain myself. You can see me in the face if I`m feeling good or bad," he added.&nbsp;

"We are an example for children and I know my action was not the right one."

He also thanked his former Juventus teammates who tried to restrain him.

"I had a great rapport with them, it was pleasing that they came and tried to hold me back. They know that players have emotions and this game went wrong, above all for me, and I can only apologise."

AC Milan forward Gonzalo Higuain has apologised for getting dismissed against Juventus, the club that sent him to San Siro on loan this season, during a 2-0 defeat on Sunday in which he also missed a first-half penalty.

AC Milan forward Gonzalo Higuain has apologised for getting dismissed against Juventus, the club that sent him to San Siro on loan this season, during a 2-0 defeat on Sunday in which he also missed a first-half penalty. Enraged after being penalised following a collision with Juventus defender Medhi Benatia, the former Real Madrid and Napoli forward was booked for dissent, then given another yellow immediately afterwards for continuing to protest. "First of all, I want to apologise to the team, the coach, the supporters and the referee for my reaction," Higuain said. "I take responsibility for what happened. Obviously, I hope that it doesn`t happen again. It was one of those moments -- we were losing, I missed a penalty and we aren`t robots but people. But I don`t want to try and justify my actions." Juventus loaned Higuain to Milan for one year -- with an option to buy -- in August after signing Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid, and the Argentine reiterated that it was not his decision to leave. "It was taken by others, not by me. I have always given everything in Turin," said Higuain, who scored 55 goals in 105 appearances for Juventus, including 40 in 73 outings in Serie A. "Now I`m at Milan and I`m fine here. I am a very emotional person and player, so sometimes it is difficult to contain myself. You can see me in the face if I`m feeling good or bad," he added. "We are an example for children and I know my action was not the right one." He also thanked his former Juventus teammates who tried to restrain him. "I had a great rapport with them, it was pleasing that they came and tried to hold me back. They know that players have emotions and this game went wrong, above all for me, and I can only apologise."

Gonzalo Higuain apologises for sending off in Juventus defeat

Mauro&nbsp;Icardi, the joint top goalscorer in Italy's Serie A this season, was left out of Argentina's World Cup squad on Monday as coach Jorge Sampaoli named his 23 players for next month's tournament in Russia.

Sampaoli named just four forwards in his squad with Lionel Messi, Paulo Dybala, Sergio Aguero and Gonzalo Higuain all selected.

That meant there was no place for&nbsp;Icardi, who scored 29 league goals for Inter Milan this season.

Although Argentina boasts some of world football's most prolific strikers, they have struggled for goals in competitive matches, scoring just 19 times in 18 qualifying matches in the South American group. Only Bolivia scored fewer.

Another surprise in Sampaoli's 23 was the inclusion of Torino defender Cristian Ansaldi.

Ansaldi has yet to play a competitive match for the two-times world champions, with his five starts all coming in friendlies, the last of which was four years ago.

"I decided on Cristian Ansaldi because he is a fullback who can play on both sides of the field," Sampaoli told reporters.

His inclusion suggests the coach is seeking to revamp a defence that lost two of its last three friendlies 4-2 to Nigeria and 6-1 to Spain.

Uncapped River Plate goalkeeper Franco Armani was also a surprise inclusion, named along with Manchester United's Sergio Romero and Chelsea's Willy Caballero.

Sampaoli said the squad is one "that attacks with the ball, that plays the game, that goes looking for a result. I think that Argentina have great potential with lads who really know what do to with the ball."

The South Americans, who lost in the World Cup final four years ago but only qualified for this year's tournament thanks to a win in their final qualifying match, have been drawn in Group D alongside Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria.

"If we are up for it and play our game then we are going to be a complex opponent for anyone," Sampaoli said, adding that both Aguero, who missed the end of the English season with a knee injury, and Messi, are training normally.

"I have spoken with Messi and I see he is very enthusiastic about what is ahead," Sampaoli said. "Physically, he is in good shape."

Sampaoli named just four forwards in his squad with Lionel Messi, Paulo Dybala, Sergio Aguero and Gonzalo Higuain all selected

Mauro Icardi, the joint top goalscorer in Italy's Serie A this season, was left out of Argentina's World Cup squad on Monday as coach Jorge Sampaoli named his 23 players for next month's tournament in Russia. Sampaoli named just four forwards in his squad with Lionel Messi, Paulo Dybala, Sergio Aguero and Gonzalo Higuain all selected. That meant there was no place for Icardi, who scored 29 league goals for Inter Milan this season. Although Argentina boasts some of world football's most prolific strikers, they have struggled for goals in competitive matches, scoring just 19 times in 18 qualifying matches in the South American group. Only Bolivia scored fewer. Another surprise in Sampaoli's 23 was the inclusion of Torino defender Cristian Ansaldi. Ansaldi has yet to play a competitive match for the two-times world champions, with his five starts all coming in friendlies, the last of which was four years ago. "I decided on Cristian Ansaldi because he is a fullback who can play on both sides of the field," Sampaoli told reporters. His inclusion suggests the coach is seeking to revamp a defence that lost two of its last three friendlies 4-2 to Nigeria and 6-1 to Spain. Uncapped River Plate goalkeeper Franco Armani was also a surprise inclusion, named along with Manchester United's Sergio Romero and Chelsea's Willy Caballero. Sampaoli said the squad is one "that attacks with the ball, that plays the game, that goes looking for a result. I think that Argentina have great potential with lads who really know what do to with the ball." The South Americans, who lost in the World Cup final four years ago but only qualified for this year's tournament thanks to a win in their final qualifying match, have been drawn in Group D alongside Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria. "If we are up for it and play our game then we are going to be a complex opponent for anyone," Sampaoli said, adding that both Aguero, who missed the end of the English season with a knee injury, and Messi, are training normally. "I have spoken with Messi and I see he is very enthusiastic about what is ahead," Sampaoli said. "Physically, he is in good shape."

FIFA 2018: Argentina's Mauro Icardi out of World Cup squad

Argentina&#39;s soccer national team trained on Saturday (March 24) at Real Madrid&#39;s sports city of Valdebebas ahead of friendly match against Spain on Tuesday (March 27) at Wanda Metropolitano stadium.

Barcelona star Lionel Messi was not seen during training session due to physical discomforts neither striker Gonzalo Higuain nor Angel di Maria.

On Friday (March 23), late goals from Ever Banega and Manuel Lanzini helped Jorge Sampaoli&#39;s side deprived of talisman Lionel Messi edge past Italy 2-0 at Manchester City&#39;s Etihad Stadium.

Barcelona star Lionel Messi was not seen during training session due to physical discomforts neither striker Gonzalo Higuain nor Angel di Maria.

Argentina's soccer national team trained on Saturday (March 24) at Real Madrid's sports city of Valdebebas ahead of friendly match against Spain on Tuesday (March 27) at Wanda Metropolitano stadium. Barcelona star Lionel Messi was not seen during training session due to physical discomforts neither striker Gonzalo Higuain nor Angel di Maria. On Friday (March 23), late goals from Ever Banega and Manuel Lanzini helped Jorge Sampaoli's side deprived of talisman Lionel Messi edge past Italy 2-0 at Manchester City's Etihad Stadium.

Messi absent from training as Argentina prepare to take on Spain

Juventus relied on their warrior instincts, according to midfielder Blaise Matuidi, as they stunned Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 to reach the Champions League quarter-finals 4-3 on aggregate at Wembley on Wednesday.

Needing to score twice in the second half, the Italians appeared to be heading out until goals by Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala in the 64th and 67th minutes cancelled out Son Heung-min&#39;s opener for Tottenham, ending a poor run against English clubs in two-legged European ties.

Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea had all beaten Juventus in the knockout phase of the Champions League and they lost to Fulham in the Europa League.

But Massimiliano Allegri&#39;s side are made of sterner stuff, as they have proved by reaching two of the last three Champions League finals and now going on a 21-match unbeaten run in all competitions this season.

&quot;We weren&#39;t in a great position after the 2-2 at home. We knew we could score here, we did that,&quot; 30-year-old Frenchman Matuidi, who missed the first leg, told reporters.

&quot;We were up against a very very good team that has super players and plays good football. They finished top of their group. It was a challenge, one that we faced with heart and a warrior spirit and that made the difference.&quot;

No one typifies that more than 36-year-old Andrea Barzagli, a rugged no-nonsense pillar in a back four with more than 170 Champions League appearances between them.

When Tottenham threw everything at Juve in a desperate late assault to salvage their dream, he along with Giorgio Chiellini, Medhi Benatia and Alex Sandro stood firm in the storm.

Barzagli believes it is their kindred spirit that will make Juve feared quarter-final opponents.

&quot;We can really achieve anything with this great character, we played badly for over one hour and than turned everything around with two great goals,&quot; he said.

&quot;We were also lucky, but I think you deserve luck when you are ready to fight and sacrifice as we did tonight.&quot;

Chiellini said a calmness under pressure had allowed Juve to reach the quarter-final for the third time in their last five appearances in the competition.

&quot;At halftime we told ourselves that we had to remain calm despite suffering so much because our chances would come,&quot; he said.

&quot;Tottenham proved to be a great team, I think they are missing very little in becoming one of the best teams in Europe, maybe some experience.

&quot;A few years ago we were in the same place, and reaching two finals in the last three seasons helped us to better handle these kinds of games.&quot;

Allegri, whose decision to send on fresh legs in the shape of Kwadwo Asamoah and Stephan Lichtsteiner on the hour proved a masterstroke, praised his side&#39;s durability.

&quot;The lads were patient to wait for the right moment to hit them,&quot; he said. &quot;Considering the whole 180 minutes, I think our qualification was deserved.

&quot;In the first half we suffered a lot against a team with great quality. I decided that we needed fresh legs on the flanks, so I put Asamoah and Lichtsteiner in. I&#39;m happy it paid off.&quot;

Juventus relied on their warrior instincts, according to midfielder Blaise Matuidi, as they stunned Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 to reach the Champions League quarter-finals 4-3 on aggregate at Wembley

Juventus relied on their warrior instincts, according to midfielder Blaise Matuidi, as they stunned Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 to reach the Champions League quarter-finals 4-3 on aggregate at Wembley on Wednesday. Needing to score twice in the second half, the Italians appeared to be heading out until goals by Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala in the 64th and 67th minutes cancelled out Son Heung-min's opener for Tottenham, ending a poor run against English clubs in two-legged European ties. Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea had all beaten Juventus in the knockout phase of the Champions League and they lost to Fulham in the Europa League. But Massimiliano Allegri's side are made of sterner stuff, as they have proved by reaching two of the last three Champions League finals and now going on a 21-match unbeaten run in all competitions this season. "We weren't in a great position after the 2-2 at home. We knew we could score here, we did that," 30-year-old Frenchman Matuidi, who missed the first leg, told reporters. "We were up against a very very good team that has super players and plays good football. They finished top of their group. It was a challenge, one that we faced with heart and a warrior spirit and that made the difference." No one typifies that more than 36-year-old Andrea Barzagli, a rugged no-nonsense pillar in a back four with more than 170 Champions League appearances between them. When Tottenham threw everything at Juve in a desperate late assault to salvage their dream, he along with Giorgio Chiellini, Medhi Benatia and Alex Sandro stood firm in the storm. Barzagli believes it is their kindred spirit that will make Juve feared quarter-final opponents. "We can really achieve anything with this great character, we played badly for over one hour and than turned everything around with two great goals," he said. "We were also lucky, but I think you deserve luck when you are ready to fight and sacrifice as we did tonight." Chiellini said a calmness under pressure had allowed Juve to reach the quarter-final for the third time in their last five appearances in the competition. "At halftime we told ourselves that we had to remain calm despite suffering so much because our chances would come," he said. "Tottenham proved to be a great team, I think they are missing very little in becoming one of the best teams in Europe, maybe some experience. "A few years ago we were in the same place, and reaching two finals in the last three seasons helped us to better handle these kinds of games." Allegri, whose decision to send on fresh legs in the shape of Kwadwo Asamoah and Stephan Lichtsteiner on the hour proved a masterstroke, praised his side's durability. "The lads were patient to wait for the right moment to hit them," he said. "Considering the whole 180 minutes, I think our qualification was deserved. "In the first half we suffered a lot against a team with great quality. I decided that we needed fresh legs on the flanks, so I put Asamoah and Lichtsteiner in. I'm happy it paid off."

Champions league: Matuidi praises Juventus's warrior spirit after victory over Spurs

Juventus have signed Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain from Napoli for 90 million euros ($98.89 million), the third highest transfer fee ever paid. 
 
&quot;I can confirm that the contract has been deposited with the League and the deal has been done,&quot; Napoli spokesman Nicola Lombardi told Reuters on Tuesday, adding that the fee will be paid in two installments. 
 
The Turin-based club triggered the release clause for the 28-year-old, who still had two years to run on his contract, Napoli added later on Tuesday in a statement. 
 
Higuain&#39;s transfer fee is the third highest paid, after Gareth Bale moved to Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur for 100 million euros in 2013 and Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Spaniards from Manchester United for 94 million euros in 2009. 
 
Last season Higuain scored a record 36 Serie A goals in 35 games for Napoli, who finished runners-up as Juventus won a fifth consecutive title. He joined Napoli in 2013 after spending six years at Real. 
 
The news that he was poised to join Juventus caused anguish among Napoli fans, who gathered in Naples city centre on Saturday to tear up pictures of the Argentine and set fire to replicas of his number nine shirt. 
 
(Reuters) 
&nbsp;

Higuain's transfer fee is the third highest fee ever paid, after those of Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo

Juventus have signed Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain from Napoli for 90 million euros ($98.89 million), the third highest transfer fee ever paid. "I can confirm that the contract has been deposited with the League and the deal has been done," Napoli spokesman Nicola Lombardi told Reuters on Tuesday, adding that the fee will be paid in two installments. The Turin-based club triggered the release clause for the 28-year-old, who still had two years to run on his contract, Napoli added later on Tuesday in a statement. Higuain's transfer fee is the third highest paid, after Gareth Bale moved to Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur for 100 million euros in 2013 and Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Spaniards from Manchester United for 94 million euros in 2009. Last season Higuain scored a record 36 Serie A goals in 35 games for Napoli, who finished runners-up as Juventus won a fifth consecutive title. He joined Napoli in 2013 after spending six years at Real. The news that he was poised to join Juventus caused anguish among Napoli fans, who gathered in Naples city centre on Saturday to tear up pictures of the Argentine and set fire to replicas of his number nine shirt. (Reuters)

Juventus sign Argentina striker Higuain from Napoli for 90 million euros

Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain has become the&nbsp;world&#39;s&nbsp;third most expensive player after the 28-year-old signed a five-year deal at Juventus Football Club, and moved to Napoli, an Italian Champions club,&nbsp;for $99 million.&nbsp;

&quot;Juventus can confirm that it has purchased the registration rights of Gonzalo Higuain for &euro;90 million, payable in two financial years,&quot; said a statement on the Juventus website.&nbsp; 
 
Higuain&#39;s transfer fee is the third highest paid, after Gareth Bale moved to Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur for 100 million euros in 2013,&nbsp;and Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Spaniards from Manchester United for 94 million euros in 2009. 
 
Higuain&#39;s move could create a ripple effect in the market amid speculation that Paul Pogma may be on his way out to Manchester United from Juventus.&nbsp;The 23-year-old Pogba left United on a free transfer in 2012, but is likely to make&nbsp;the move back to the Premier League this summer. 
 
Higuain won the Capocannoniere - Serie A&#39;s golden boot - last season after scoring a league record-equalling 36 goals as Napoli finished runners-up to his new club. 
 
The news that he was poised to join Juventus caused anguish among Napoli fans, who gathered in Naples city centre on Saturday to tear up pictures of the Argentine and set fire to replicas of his number nine shirt.

The former Napoli player has become the third most expensive player after Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo

Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain has become the world's third most expensive player after the 28-year-old signed a five-year deal at Juventus Football Club, and moved to Napoli, an Italian Champions club, for $99 million. "Juventus can confirm that it has purchased the registration rights of Gonzalo Higuain for €90 million, payable in two financial years," said a statement on the Juventus website. Higuain's transfer fee is the third highest paid, after Gareth Bale moved to Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur for 100 million euros in 2013, and Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Spaniards from Manchester United for 94 million euros in 2009. Higuain's move could create a ripple effect in the market amid speculation that Paul Pogma may be on his way out to Manchester United from Juventus. The 23-year-old Pogba left United on a free transfer in 2012, but is likely to make the move back to the Premier League this summer. Higuain won the Capocannoniere - Serie A's golden boot - last season after scoring a league record-equalling 36 goals as Napoli finished runners-up to his new club. The news that he was poised to join Juventus caused anguish among Napoli fans, who gathered in Naples city centre on Saturday to tear up pictures of the Argentine and set fire to replicas of his number nine shirt.

Argentina striker Gonzalo Higuain joins Juventus for $99 million

Lionel Messi scored his 55th international goal to become his country&#39;s all-time leading scorer as Argentina thrashed hosts the United States 4-0 to ease into the final of the Centenary Copa America on Tuesday. 
 
Many of those in the 70,858 crowd in Houston had come to witness the Barcelona star etch his name in the history books and he did not disappoint, curling a sensational free kick past Brad Guzan after 32 minutes to put Argentina 2-0 ahead. 
 
Messi had been chopped down by Chris Wondolowski 25 yards from goal as he burst forward and the ensuing strike moved him clear of previous record holder Gabriel Batistuta&#39;s 54 goal tally. 
 
&quot;I am happy to have surpassed Batistuta&#39;s record and I want to thank my teammates, it&#39;s theirs as well,&quot; Messi, who turns 29 on Friday, told reporters. 
 
The win, meanwhile, advanced Argentina into Sunday&#39;s final against either Colombia or reigning champions Chile, who meet in Chicago on Wednesday. 
 
&quot;We needed to get back in a final but we can never get ahead of ourselves,&quot; Argentine coach Gerardo Martino assed. &quot;We&#39;ve always taken it one game at a time. We are pleased with our general production (so far).&quot; 
 
Martino started Ezequiel Lavezzi up front in place of the injured Angel Di Maria and it took the China-based winger just three minutes to make his mark when he got on the end of a Messi chip to head over a stranded Guzan. 
 
Argentina dominated the first half and Messi&#39;s goal was just reward for their superiority but if the home side thought they could stage a second-half fightback, they were sadly mistaken. 
 
US coach Jurgen Klinsmann made two changes at the break but Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain scored a third goal just four minutes into the second half. The US enjoyed more possession as the match progressed but never managed a shot on goal for the entire game as Argentina exposed the gulf in class between the very best South American and North American sides. 
 
Messi, who captained the side in his 112th international, almost grabbed a second eight minutes from time but Guzan turned his shot around the post for a corner. 
 
However, the mercurial forward was on hand to have a say in the fourth goal, when his pinpoint pass set up Higuain to complete the rout with a simple tap in after 85 minutes. 
 
The result means Argentina have scored 18 goals in five games and conceded just two as they power towards what they hope will be their 15th Copa America title, and first since 1993, to take them level with all-time leader Uruguay. 
 
The win would also cap Messi&#39;s international career after years of disappointment. Argentina reached the finals of their last two tournaments, the Copa America in 2015, and the World Cup in 2014, but were narrowly beaten in both. 
 
&quot;When you concede a goal after three minutes against such a team... that&#39;s when you&#39;ve already lost your mental battle,&quot; Klinsmann lamented. &quot;Once they have a lead they&#39;re not giving that lead away.&nbsp;It&#39;s a special team Argentina,&quot; he added. &quot;You saw tonight why they are the number one team in the world. I told the guys there&#39;s nothing to be ashamed of.&quot; 
 
(Reuters)

Argentina routed USA 4-0 in their semi-final encounter which saw Messi become the country's all-time leading scorer

Lionel Messi scored his 55th international goal to become his country's all-time leading scorer as Argentina thrashed hosts the United States 4-0 to ease into the final of the Centenary Copa America on Tuesday. Many of those in the 70,858 crowd in Houston had come to witness the Barcelona star etch his name in the history books and he did not disappoint, curling a sensational free kick past Brad Guzan after 32 minutes to put Argentina 2-0 ahead. Messi had been chopped down by Chris Wondolowski 25 yards from goal as he burst forward and the ensuing strike moved him clear of previous record holder Gabriel Batistuta's 54 goal tally. "I am happy to have surpassed Batistuta's record and I want to thank my teammates, it's theirs as well," Messi, who turns 29 on Friday, told reporters. The win, meanwhile, advanced Argentina into Sunday's final against either Colombia or reigning champions Chile, who meet in Chicago on Wednesday. "We needed to get back in a final but we can never get ahead of ourselves," Argentine coach Gerardo Martino assed. "We've always taken it one game at a time. We are pleased with our general production (so far)." Martino started Ezequiel Lavezzi up front in place of the injured Angel Di Maria and it took the China-based winger just three minutes to make his mark when he got on the end of a Messi chip to head over a stranded Guzan. Argentina dominated the first half and Messi's goal was just reward for their superiority but if the home side thought they could stage a second-half fightback, they were sadly mistaken. US coach Jurgen Klinsmann made two changes at the break but Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain scored a third goal just four minutes into the second half. The US enjoyed more possession as the match progressed but never managed a shot on goal for the entire game as Argentina exposed the gulf in class between the very best South American and North American sides. Messi, who captained the side in his 112th international, almost grabbed a second eight minutes from time but Guzan turned his shot around the post for a corner. However, the mercurial forward was on hand to have a say in the fourth goal, when his pinpoint pass set up Higuain to complete the rout with a simple tap in after 85 minutes. The result means Argentina have scored 18 goals in five games and conceded just two as they power towards what they hope will be their 15th Copa America title, and first since 1993, to take them level with all-time leader Uruguay. The win would also cap Messi's international career after years of disappointment. Argentina reached the finals of their last two tournaments, the Copa America in 2015, and the World Cup in 2014, but were narrowly beaten in both. "When you concede a goal after three minutes against such a team... that's when you've already lost your mental battle," Klinsmann lamented. "Once they have a lead they're not giving that lead away. It's a special team Argentina," he added. "You saw tonight why they are the number one team in the world. I told the guys there's nothing to be ashamed of." (Reuters)

Goal-machine Messi leads Argentina to Copa final

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