Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has stayed buoyant about keeping Kylian Mbappe at the club. He has precluded the chance of Kylian Mbappe leaving on free exchange and claims he won't ever sell the forward in the midst of the consistent theory connecting him to Liverpool.&nbsp;

The Frenchman has been connected with a transition to Real Madrid and Liverpool as he has quite recently a year staying on his present agreement.&nbsp;

Agreement augmentations haven't advanced well, and almost certainly, the club and the player will plunk down after the Euros to begin talks once more.&nbsp;

"I will be clear; Mbappe is going to stay in Paris. We will never sell I'm and he will never leave on a free [transfer]. Mbappe has everything he needs in Paris. Where can he go? What club, in terms of ambition, can compete with PSG today?"All I can say is that things are going well, and I hope we can reach an agreement [on a new contract]. This is Paris, this is his country. He has a mission, not only to play football but to promote Ligue 1, his country, and his capital," Al-Khelaifi told L'Equipe.

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Real Madrid is required to be occupied in the late spring move window. Real Madrid went trophy-less the previous summer and needed capability upfront and center as they missed the mark in the alliance and cup contests.&nbsp;

Albeit new Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is relied upon to hand freedoms to a portion of the players censured by previous chief Zinedine Zidane, the club could sign some new faces this mid-year.&nbsp;

Mbappe's agreement circumstance is probably going to draw in admirers, however not a ton of clubs can bear the cost of his high wages.&nbsp;

Real Madrid also should dispose of a portion of their high workers to oblige Kylian Mbappe without breaking their compensation structure.&nbsp;

The COVID-19 pandemic has left clubs in a troublesome monetary circumstance, so notwithstanding Kylian Mbappe's unsafe agreement circumstance, it won't be simply marking him. The Frenchman is additionally drawing in interest from Liverpool, however, it stays not yet clear if their advantage is certified.&nbsp;

Kylian Mbappe scored 27 times in Ligue 1 last season and got the golden boot for the third year in a row.

Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has stayed buoyant about keeping Kylian Mbappe at the club. He has precluded the chance of Kylian Mbappe leaving on free exchange and claims he won't ever sell the forward in the midst of the consistent theory connecting him to Liverpool.

Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has stayed buoyant about keeping Kylian Mbappe at the club. He has precluded the chance of Kylian Mbappe leaving on free exchange and claims he won't ever sell the forward in the midst of the consistent theory connecting him to Liverpool. The Frenchman has been connected with a transition to Real Madrid and Liverpool as he has quite recently a year staying on his present agreement. Agreement augmentations haven't advanced well, and almost certainly, the club and the player will plunk down after the Euros to begin talks once more. "I will be clear; Mbappe is going to stay in Paris. We will never sell I'm and he will never leave on a free [transfer]. Mbappe has everything he needs in Paris. Where can he go? What club, in terms of ambition, can compete with PSG today?"All I can say is that things are going well, and I hope we can reach an agreement [on a new contract]. This is Paris, this is his country. He has a mission, not only to play football but to promote Ligue 1, his country, and his capital," Al-Khelaifi told L'Equipe. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have "slight disadvantage" in WTC Final vs New Zealand Real Madrid is required to be occupied in the late spring move window. Real Madrid went trophy-less the previous summer and needed capability upfront and center as they missed the mark in the alliance and cup contests. Albeit new Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is relied upon to hand freedoms to a portion of the players censured by previous chief Zinedine Zidane, the club could sign some new faces this mid-year. Mbappe's agreement circumstance is probably going to draw in admirers, however not a ton of clubs can bear the cost of his high wages. Real Madrid also should dispose of a portion of their high workers to oblige Kylian Mbappe without breaking their compensation structure. The COVID-19 pandemic has left clubs in a troublesome monetary circumstance, so notwithstanding Kylian Mbappe's unsafe agreement circumstance, it won't be simply marking him. The Frenchman is additionally drawing in interest from Liverpool, however, it stays not yet clear if their advantage is certified. Kylian Mbappe scored 27 times in Ligue 1 last season and got the golden boot for the third year in a row.

Football: PSG president Al-Khelaifi breaks silence on Kylian Mbappe's future

PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has uncovered that Barcelona has "always wanted" to re-sign Neymar.

Bits of gossip about a Barcelona return for Neymar has drawn in a lot of eyeballs since the time he moved to the French capital and returned again this late spring. Neymar signed up a new deal until 2025 with PSG, in this manner precluding any expected transfer to Barcelona sooner rather than later and Al-Khelaïfi figures the previous Barcelona star didn't require a lot of persuading.&nbsp;

Neymar went through four years at Barcelona before his transition to PSG. He helped the Catalan goliaths win two La Liga titles, three Copa del Reys, and a UEFA Champions League title.&nbsp;

The Brazilian set up himself as arguably one of the best during his time at Barcelona and framed a considerable assaulting association with Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi.&nbsp;

Neymar was tipped to be the replacement to Lionel Messi at Barcelona yet stunned the world when he finished a world-record move worth €222 million to PSG in the late spring of 2017.&nbsp;

Since joining PSG, Neymar has driven the club to three Ligue 1 titles, three Coupe de France trophy, and two Coupe de la Ligue titles. The forward has scored an amazing 87 goals in 116 games for PSG.

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In spite of getting a charge out of progress at PSG, Neymar has frequently been connected with a move back to Barcelona. Barcelona has spent over €400 million on any semblance of Antoine Griezmann, Philippe Coutinho, and Ousmane Dembele in a bid to supplant the forward. Nonetheless, these players have to a great extent been disappointing.&nbsp;

PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi uncovered that it didn't take a lot to persuade Neymar to remain in the French capital. He told L'Equipe:

"Barcelona always wanted to bring Neymar back, that is no secret. But did Neymar want to go? No. It is true that at that time, his adaptation to Paris &amp; France was still incomplete."

"It was not hard to find an agreement with Neymar. If it took so long, it was because of the health crisis. I never had any doubts." 
&nbsp;

PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has uncovered that Barcelona has "always wanted" to re-sign Neymar. Bits of gossip about a Barcelona return for Neymar has drawn in a lot of eyeballs since the time he moved to the French capital and returned again this late spring.

PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has uncovered that Barcelona has "always wanted" to re-sign Neymar. Bits of gossip about a Barcelona return for Neymar has drawn in a lot of eyeballs since the time he moved to the French capital and returned again this late spring. Neymar signed up a new deal until 2025 with PSG, in this manner precluding any expected transfer to Barcelona sooner rather than later and Al-Khelaïfi figures the previous Barcelona star didn't require a lot of persuading. Neymar went through four years at Barcelona before his transition to PSG. He helped the Catalan goliaths win two La Liga titles, three Copa del Reys, and a UEFA Champions League title. The Brazilian set up himself as arguably one of the best during his time at Barcelona and framed a considerable assaulting association with Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi. Neymar was tipped to be the replacement to Lionel Messi at Barcelona yet stunned the world when he finished a world-record move worth €222 million to PSG in the late spring of 2017. Since joining PSG, Neymar has driven the club to three Ligue 1 titles, three Coupe de France trophy, and two Coupe de la Ligue titles. The forward has scored an amazing 87 goals in 116 games for PSG. ALSO READ: Football: From Foden to Felix - Six young stars to watch at Euro 2020 In spite of getting a charge out of progress at PSG, Neymar has frequently been connected with a move back to Barcelona. Barcelona has spent over €400 million on any semblance of Antoine Griezmann, Philippe Coutinho, and Ousmane Dembele in a bid to supplant the forward. Nonetheless, these players have to a great extent been disappointing. PSG president Nasser al-Khelaifi uncovered that it didn't take a lot to persuade Neymar to remain in the French capital. He told L'Equipe: "Barcelona always wanted to bring Neymar back, that is no secret. But did Neymar want to go? No. It is true that at that time, his adaptation to Paris & France was still incomplete." "It was not hard to find an agreement with Neymar. If it took so long, it was because of the health crisis. I never had any doubts."

Football: Barcelona always wanted to bring Neymar back, says PSG president

In what could be one of the biggest transfers ahead of the 2021-22 season, Tottenham Hotspur have held talks with Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino over a return to the club. Pochettino was sacked by Spurs 18 months ago and the Argentine went onto sign a short-term deal with his former club PSG.<o:p></o:p>

With the Ligue 1 giants, Pochettino won two domestic trophies to end his wait for a title as a manager but failed to guide PSG to a league title after being pipped by Lille.<o:p></o:p>

Under Pochettino, PSG qualified for the UCL semi-final but were defeated by Manchester City.<o:p></o:p>

While Pochettino is regarded as one of the finest tacticians, Tottenham Hotspur are working on a possible return for the Argentine to the North London club.

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Reportedly, Pochettino is unhappy with how some of the things have been handled by the PSG hierarchy and is considering returning to Premier League. Apparently, Daniel Levi has accepted that it was a “mistake” to sack Pochettino and believes bringing him back is the best possible chance for the club to get back to UCL contention and win the fans back after the Super League fiasco.<o:p></o:p>

The Argentine guided Spurs to three top-three finishes in the Premier League, on the bounce, and four Champions League qualifications. He also took Tottenham Hotspur to the final of the Champions League only to lose against Liverpool.

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However, PSG are reluctant to let go of Pochettino and it will be interesting how Spurs negotiate with the French giants. <o:p></o:p>

Besides Pochettino, Ajax boss Erik Ten Haag continues to remain a strong contender for the role in case PSG don’t allow the Argentine to leave. <o:p></o:p>

In what could be one of the biggest transfers ahead of the 2021-22 season, Tottenham Hotspur have held talks with Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino over a return to the club.

In what could be one of the biggest transfers ahead of the 2021-22 season, Tottenham Hotspur have held talks with Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino over a return to the club. Pochettino was sacked by Spurs 18 months ago and the Argentine went onto sign a short-term deal with his former club PSG. With the Ligue 1 giants, Pochettino won two domestic trophies to end his wait for a title as a manager but failed to guide PSG to a league title after being pipped by Lille. Under Pochettino, PSG qualified for the UCL semi-final but were defeated by Manchester City. While Pochettino is regarded as one of the finest tacticians, Tottenham Hotspur are working on a possible return for the Argentine to the North London club. ALSO READ: Football: Zinedine Zidane leaves Real Madrid after disappointing 2020-21 campaign Reportedly, Pochettino is unhappy with how some of the things have been handled by the PSG hierarchy and is considering returning to Premier League. Apparently, Daniel Levi has accepted that it was a “mistake” to sack Pochettino and believes bringing him back is the best possible chance for the club to get back to UCL contention and win the fans back after the Super League fiasco. The Argentine guided Spurs to three top-three finishes in the Premier League, on the bounce, and four Champions League qualifications. He also took Tottenham Hotspur to the final of the Champions League only to lose against Liverpool. ALSO READ: Football: 'At least 70 racial slurs' - Marcus Rashford subjected to online abuse after Europa League final defeat However, PSG are reluctant to let go of Pochettino and it will be interesting how Spurs negotiate with the French giants. Besides Pochettino, Ajax boss Erik Ten Haag continues to remain a strong contender for the role in case PSG don’t allow the Argentine to leave.

Football: Tottenham Hotspur hold talks with Mauricio Pochettino as PSG boss eyes Premier League return

Kylian Mbappe set up the first goal and grabbed one of his own as Paris St Germain retained the French Cup with a 2-0 victory over Monaco in Wednesday’s final at the Stade de France.

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Quick thinking by Mbappe to dispose of&nbsp;Axel Disasi in his own penalty area, as the Monaco defender, let a short pass from goalkeeper Radoslaw Majecki slip under his feet, set up a 19th-minute opener for Mauro Icardi.

Mbappe took the ball away and, displaying quick feet, passed square for Icardi to tuck the ball home from close range.

With teammate Neymar suspended and watching from the empty stands, Mbappe was able to dominate the contest with his talent and pace and added the second goal in the 81st minute.

Angel Di Maria set him up with a short through-ball and the World Cup winner lifted his finish over Majecki to make sure of the outcome.

Mbappe’s goal came a minute after he had hit the crossbar with a clever chip from outside the penalty area having spotted Majecki off his line.

It was one of few chances in a largely dour final, played behind closed doors, that only came alive in the last 15 minutes.

PSG retained their title and extended to 14 their record number of wins in the cup. Monaco had won five previous times but last in 1991. They were last in the final in 2010 when PSG also beat them.

“We work every day to experience this type of emotion, reward and recognition. The work of a whole group, the staff, and the supporters who could not be here. We think about them a lot, this title is also for them," Mbappe said.

"When you play for PSG, one of the biggest clubs in the world, the biggest club in the country, every title counts to go down in history. We want to be part of this story, it's a great step today."

PSG defender Alessandro Florenzi had a powerful shot tipped over by Majecki in the first half while Monaco created the better opportunities after the break.

PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas made two good saves from Wissam Ben Yedder and Krepin Diatta and saw an errant cross rebound back into play off his crossbar.

But any hopes of a comeback were swiftly ended by the pace and vision of Mbappe as he settled the outcome.

Both clubs now turn their attention to the end of the Ligue 1 season on Sunday where they hold out hopes of winning the title. PSG are second, one point behind leaders Lille, while Monaco are three points adrift.

Kylian Mbappe set up the first goal and grabbed one of his own as Paris St Germain retained the French Cup with a 2-0 victory over Monaco in Wednesday’s final at the Stade de France.

Kylian Mbappe set up the first goal and grabbed one of his own as Paris St Germain retained the French Cup with a 2-0 victory over Monaco in Wednesday’s final at the Stade de France. ALSO READ: Liverpool must maintain focus to seal top-four finish: Phillips Quick thinking by Mbappe to dispose of Axel Disasi in his own penalty area, as the Monaco defender, let a short pass from goalkeeper Radoslaw Majecki slip under his feet, set up a 19th-minute opener for Mauro Icardi. Mbappe took the ball away and, displaying quick feet, passed square for Icardi to tuck the ball home from close range. With teammate Neymar suspended and watching from the empty stands, Mbappe was able to dominate the contest with his talent and pace and added the second goal in the 81st minute. Angel Di Maria set him up with a short through-ball and the World Cup winner lifted his finish over Majecki to make sure of the outcome. Mbappe’s goal came a minute after he had hit the crossbar with a clever chip from outside the penalty area having spotted Majecki off his line. It was one of few chances in a largely dour final, played behind closed doors, that only came alive in the last 15 minutes. PSG retained their title and extended to 14 their record number of wins in the cup. Monaco had won five previous times but last in 1991. They were last in the final in 2010 when PSG also beat them. “We work every day to experience this type of emotion, reward and recognition. The work of a whole group, the staff, and the supporters who could not be here. We think about them a lot, this title is also for them," Mbappe said. "When you play for PSG, one of the biggest clubs in the world, the biggest club in the country, every title counts to go down in history. We want to be part of this story, it's a great step today." PSG defender Alessandro Florenzi had a powerful shot tipped over by Majecki in the first half while Monaco created the better opportunities after the break. PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas made two good saves from Wissam Ben Yedder and Krepin Diatta and saw an errant cross rebound back into play off his crossbar. But any hopes of a comeback were swiftly ended by the pace and vision of Mbappe as he settled the outcome. Both clubs now turn their attention to the end of the Ligue 1 season on Sunday where they hold out hopes of winning the title. PSG are second, one point behind leaders Lille, while Monaco are three points adrift.

Kylian Mbappe magic sets up Paris Saint-Germain for French Cup victory

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar Jr. will be extending his contract with the club on Saturday, as per French sports daily L'Equipe's report.&nbsp;

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The Brazilian forward joined the French club in 2017 for a &nbsp;record transfer fee of 222 million euros ($270.02 million) from Barcelona. According to the reports, the footballer will extend his stay in the club by four years until 2026.

The striker was willing to leave the club in 2019 and sparked rumours of him rejoining his former club Barcelona. However, the reports calmed down after Paris made it into their maiden Champions League finals.&nbsp;

The French giants are also looking to extend Kylian Mbappe's contract as the terms in the 22-year-old's agreement will run out at the end of next season.&nbsp;

In his first PSG news conference in two years last week, Neymar said was 'really happy' at the club, hinting at a possible extension of his contract.

He was, however, unable to help the team reach a second successive Champions League final as PSG were knocked out in the semi-finals by Manchester City with a 4-1 aggregate defeat.

Neymar's time at PSG has been inconsistent, with the Brazilian gracing the fans with some moments of brilliance while winning three straight Ligue 1 titles. However, he has failed to make his impact truly felt in Champions League knockout ties.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar Jr. will be extending his contract with the club on Saturday, as per French sports daily L'Equipe's report. ALSO READ: Manchester United owners to discuss "fan share ownership" The Brazilian forward joined the French club in 2017 for a record transfer fee of 222 million euros ($270.

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar Jr. will be extending his contract with the club on Saturday, as per French sports daily L'Equipe's report. ALSO READ: Manchester United owners to discuss "fan share ownership" The Brazilian forward joined the French club in 2017 for a record transfer fee of 222 million euros ($270.02 million) from Barcelona. According to the reports, the footballer will extend his stay in the club by four years until 2026. The striker was willing to leave the club in 2019 and sparked rumours of him rejoining his former club Barcelona. However, the reports calmed down after Paris made it into their maiden Champions League finals. The French giants are also looking to extend Kylian Mbappe's contract as the terms in the 22-year-old's agreement will run out at the end of next season. In his first PSG news conference in two years last week, Neymar said was 'really happy' at the club, hinting at a possible extension of his contract. He was, however, unable to help the team reach a second successive Champions League final as PSG were knocked out in the semi-finals by Manchester City with a 4-1 aggregate defeat. Neymar's time at PSG has been inconsistent, with the Brazilian gracing the fans with some moments of brilliance while winning three straight Ligue 1 titles. However, he has failed to make his impact truly felt in Champions League knockout ties. (Inputs from Reuters)

Neymar Jr. set to extend his contract with Paris Saint-Germain: Reports

For Paris Saint-Germain another&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;campaign ends in disappointment, wondering what might have been had one of their superstar attackers not been sidelined at the crucial moment.

In 2018 and 2019 it was Neymar who was injured as PSG lost in the last 16 to Real Madrid and then Manchester United.

This time it was Kylian Mbappe, handicapped by a calf knock that meant he was left on the bench in Tuesday's 2-0 semi-final second leg defeat against Manchester City, huddled up to keep warm on a bitter night in the north of England.

Coach Mauricio Pochettino must have hoped his team, having lost 2-1 in the first leg, could stay in the tie long enough to make it worth risking Mbappe for the closing stages.

After Riyad Mahrez scored his and City's second of the night, Angel Di Maria's sending-off midway through the second half meant there was no point in sending on Mbappe. The tie was over.

There will be no second consecutive&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;final for last season's runners-up, as the most coveted trophy of all continues to elude their Qatari owners a decade after they bought the club.

This defeat might hurt that bit more coming against Abu Dhabi-backed City, and it once again brings into focus the Qatar strategy at the Parc des Princes.

PSG threw the two biggest transfer fees in history at Neymar and Mbappe in 2017 but the 400 million-euro ($480m) duo have not managed to deliver European glory, and they now have just a year remaining on their contracts.

Mbappe starred with a hat-trick in Barcelona and a brace at Bayern Munich in the last two rounds. Standing in for him in Manchester, Mauro Icardi made little impact, and the Parisians failed to muster a shot on target in the tie after the 28th minute of the first leg.

<h2>'Lost their nerve'&nbsp;</h2>

They ended up losing their nerve at the Etihad Stadium, with Di Maria seeing red for stamping on Fernandinho's foot before Marco Verratti, Presnel Kimpembe and Danilo Pereira were all booked.

Afterwards PSG players queued up to accuse Dutch referee Bjorn Kuipers of insulting them, but they did not help themselves.

"They lost their nerve and started to kick us and after the red card it was more comfortable," said Mahrez, born and brought up in the Paris suburbs but who drove a dagger to PSG's heart by scoring three of City's four goals in the tie, a year after ex-Paris winger Kingsley Coman netted Bayern's winner in the final.

It was an inglorious exit for Pochettino's team, but the defeat should take nothing away from their achievements in knocking out Barcelona and Bayern.

"We eliminated teams who could have gone on to win it, like us," PSG's sporting director Leonardo told broadcaster RMC Sport.

"Our objective now is always to win, not just to reach the semi-finals, but I think our performances in the last two years have shown that we are among the real contenders to win the trophy we want the most."

<h2>Will star duo sign new deals?&nbsp;</h2>

The question now, as always, is what happens next.

Leonardo still needs to add quality to support Mbappe and Neymar, particularly at full-back.

He also needs to sort out the futures of his superstar forwards, with negotiations over new contracts ongoing.

"We need to continue, keep the foundations we have," Leonardo added.

"Today is not the time to decide or announce anything. We can be proud of what we did. We are not satisfied at losing in the semi-finals but that can happen against a team like Manchester City.

"I am optimistic for the future."

That future will be with Pochettino, who arrived in January and has regularly spoken of the need for a full pre-season.

More immediately he also has a&nbsp;league&nbsp;and cup double to win -- French&nbsp;champions&nbsp;seven times in eight years, PSG are second in Ligue 1, a point behind Lille with three matches left.

"Let's concentrate on the future and prepare the team to win the games we have left," Pochettino said.

"The way we played in these two games gives us hope for the future, to come back and try again."

For Paris Saint-Germain another Champions League campaign ends in disappointment, wondering what might have been had one of their superstar attackers not been sidelined at the crucial moment.

For Paris Saint-Germain another Champions League campaign ends in disappointment, wondering what might have been had one of their superstar attackers not been sidelined at the crucial moment. In 2018 and 2019 it was Neymar who was injured as PSG lost in the last 16 to Real Madrid and then Manchester United. This time it was Kylian Mbappe, handicapped by a calf knock that meant he was left on the bench in Tuesday's 2-0 semi-final second leg defeat against Manchester City, huddled up to keep warm on a bitter night in the north of England. Coach Mauricio Pochettino must have hoped his team, having lost 2-1 in the first leg, could stay in the tie long enough to make it worth risking Mbappe for the closing stages. After Riyad Mahrez scored his and City's second of the night, Angel Di Maria's sending-off midway through the second half meant there was no point in sending on Mbappe. The tie was over. There will be no second consecutive Champions League final for last season's runners-up, as the most coveted trophy of all continues to elude their Qatari owners a decade after they bought the club. This defeat might hurt that bit more coming against Abu Dhabi-backed City, and it once again brings into focus the Qatar strategy at the Parc des Princes. PSG threw the two biggest transfer fees in history at Neymar and Mbappe in 2017 but the 400 million-euro ($480m) duo have not managed to deliver European glory, and they now have just a year remaining on their contracts. Mbappe starred with a hat-trick in Barcelona and a brace at Bayern Munich in the last two rounds. Standing in for him in Manchester, Mauro Icardi made little impact, and the Parisians failed to muster a shot on target in the tie after the 28th minute of the first leg. 'Lost their nerve' They ended up losing their nerve at the Etihad Stadium, with Di Maria seeing red for stamping on Fernandinho's foot before Marco Verratti, Presnel Kimpembe and Danilo Pereira were all booked. Afterwards PSG players queued up to accuse Dutch referee Bjorn Kuipers of insulting them, but they did not help themselves. "They lost their nerve and started to kick us and after the red card it was more comfortable," said Mahrez, born and brought up in the Paris suburbs but who drove a dagger to PSG's heart by scoring three of City's four goals in the tie, a year after ex-Paris winger Kingsley Coman netted Bayern's winner in the final. It was an inglorious exit for Pochettino's team, but the defeat should take nothing away from their achievements in knocking out Barcelona and Bayern. "We eliminated teams who could have gone on to win it, like us," PSG's sporting director Leonardo told broadcaster RMC Sport. "Our objective now is always to win, not just to reach the semi-finals, but I think our performances in the last two years have shown that we are among the real contenders to win the trophy we want the most." Will star duo sign new deals? The question now, as always, is what happens next. Leonardo still needs to add quality to support Mbappe and Neymar, particularly at full-back. He also needs to sort out the futures of his superstar forwards, with negotiations over new contracts ongoing. "We need to continue, keep the foundations we have," Leonardo added. "Today is not the time to decide or announce anything. We can be proud of what we did. We are not satisfied at losing in the semi-finals but that can happen against a team like Manchester City. "I am optimistic for the future." That future will be with Pochettino, who arrived in January and has regularly spoken of the need for a full pre-season. More immediately he also has a league and cup double to win -- French champions seven times in eight years, PSG are second in Ligue 1, a point behind Lille with three matches left. "Let's concentrate on the future and prepare the team to win the games we have left," Pochettino said. "The way we played in these two games gives us hope for the future, to come back and try again."

PSG regret Mbappe absence and loss of discipline in latest Champions League exit

Pep Guardiola said Manchester City's first-ever&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;final had been five years in the making after Riyad Mahrez's double saw off Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 on Tuesday to seal a 4-1 semi-final aggregate win.

The City will look to set the seal on a third Premier&nbsp;League&nbsp;title in the past four seasons in the coming days as they remain on course for a treble, having already lifted the&nbsp;League&nbsp;Cup.

But their previous four&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;campaigns under Guardiola ended in anguish before the semi-final stage.

Guardiola has won the competition twice before as a coach during his time at Barcelona.

However, the Catalan has also endured a decade of disappointment in Europe's premier club competition since.

"It is for all of us and the club. I'm incredibly proud," said Guardiola. "Getting to the final now makes sense of what we have done in the past four or five years. Every day these guys have been consistent and this is remarkable."

Mahrez's goal also decided the first leg and the Algerian, who grew up in the Parisian suburbs, haunted his home town team again with two clinical finishes early in each half.

The final in Istanbul on May 29 against Real Madrid or Chelsea is the culmination of City's rise since an Abu Dhabi takeover in 2008 transformed the club's fortunes.

Meanwhile, four years on from making Neymar and Kylian Mbappe the world's two most expensive players, PSG's wait for a first&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;title goes on.

Mbappe could only watch on from the stands due to a calf injury as, just like in last week's first leg, his side imploded after an excellent first-half performance.

The visitors were left to rue huge missed chances by Marquinhos and Angel Di Maria in between Mahrez's strikes before Di Maria lashed out at Fernandinho to leave PSG down to 10 men for the final 20 minutes.

"We started really well, creating chances and dominating Manchester City," said PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino. "That's not easy. Not many teams can dominate a team like Manchester City."

However, the Argentine, who had to come onto the pitch to calm his players after Di Maria saw red, admitted his side's indiscipline had cost them.

Idrissa Gueye was also sent off late in the first leg for a shocking challenge on Ilkay Gundogan.

"Over the 180 minutes, for 40 or 45 minutes we played with 10 men," added Pochettino. "That's a massive advantage."

The French&nbsp;champions&nbsp;thought they had an early penalty to get back in the tie when Oleksandr Zinchenko was penalised for handball.

However, Dutch referee Bjorn Kuipers rightly reversed his initial decision on seeing a replay of the ball bouncing off the Ukrainian's shoulder.

Zinchenko was heavily involved again when the opening goal arrived at the other end.

He raced onto City goalkeeper Ederson's thunderous long pass into the PSG area. Zinchenko's cut-back found Kevin De Bruyne and after the&nbsp;Belgian's shot was blocked, Mahrez pounced to slot home on his weaker right foot.

The tie was still far from over as PSG penned City back and should have been at least level on the night before half-time.

Marquinhos has made a habit of scoring big&nbsp;Champions&nbsp;League&nbsp;goals and the Brazilian was inches away from another when his looping header came back off the crossbar.

Ederson then nearly undid his good work as Di Maria intercepted his hurried throw to Bernardo Silva and flashed a shot inches wide with the Brazilian 'keeper stranded outside his goal.

<h2>Neymar nullified&nbsp;</h2>

Pochettino will wonder what could have been had Mbappe been fit with his replacement Icardi ineffective.

Neymar only ever showed flashes of his brilliance with City's impressive defence led by Ruben Dias able to focus on stopping the Brazilian without Mbappe to worry about.

Guardiola's men have always shown enough quality going forward and a clinical counter-attack killed off the tie in 63 minutes.

De Bruyne freed Phil Foden down the left and his inch-perfect cross was blasted high past, Keylor Navas, by Mahrez.

In a repeat of the first leg, PSG's discipline went with their hopes of reaching the final.

Di Maria needlessly stamped on Fernandinho to be shown a straight red card before Marco Verratti was lucky to escape seeing a second yellow.

"They lost their nerve and started to kick us," said Mahrez, rubbing salt in PSG wounds. "After the red card it was good for us."

Pep Guardiola said Manchester City's first-ever Champions League final had been five years in the making after Riyad Mahrez's double saw off Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 on Tuesday to seal a 4-1 semi-final aggregate win.

Pep Guardiola said Manchester City's first-ever Champions League final had been five years in the making after Riyad Mahrez's double saw off Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 on Tuesday to seal a 4-1 semi-final aggregate win. The City will look to set the seal on a third Premier League title in the past four seasons in the coming days as they remain on course for a treble, having already lifted the League Cup. But their previous four Champions League campaigns under Guardiola ended in anguish before the semi-final stage. Guardiola has won the competition twice before as a coach during his time at Barcelona. However, the Catalan has also endured a decade of disappointment in Europe's premier club competition since. "It is for all of us and the club. I'm incredibly proud," said Guardiola. "Getting to the final now makes sense of what we have done in the past four or five years. Every day these guys have been consistent and this is remarkable." Mahrez's goal also decided the first leg and the Algerian, who grew up in the Parisian suburbs, haunted his home town team again with two clinical finishes early in each half. The final in Istanbul on May 29 against Real Madrid or Chelsea is the culmination of City's rise since an Abu Dhabi takeover in 2008 transformed the club's fortunes. Meanwhile, four years on from making Neymar and Kylian Mbappe the world's two most expensive players, PSG's wait for a first Champions League title goes on. Mbappe could only watch on from the stands due to a calf injury as, just like in last week's first leg, his side imploded after an excellent first-half performance. The visitors were left to rue huge missed chances by Marquinhos and Angel Di Maria in between Mahrez's strikes before Di Maria lashed out at Fernandinho to leave PSG down to 10 men for the final 20 minutes. "We started really well, creating chances and dominating Manchester City," said PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino. "That's not easy. Not many teams can dominate a team like Manchester City." However, the Argentine, who had to come onto the pitch to calm his players after Di Maria saw red, admitted his side's indiscipline had cost them. Idrissa Gueye was also sent off late in the first leg for a shocking challenge on Ilkay Gundogan. "Over the 180 minutes, for 40 or 45 minutes we played with 10 men," added Pochettino. "That's a massive advantage." The French champions thought they had an early penalty to get back in the tie when Oleksandr Zinchenko was penalised for handball. However, Dutch referee Bjorn Kuipers rightly reversed his initial decision on seeing a replay of the ball bouncing off the Ukrainian's shoulder. Zinchenko was heavily involved again when the opening goal arrived at the other end. He raced onto City goalkeeper Ederson's thunderous long pass into the PSG area. Zinchenko's cut-back found Kevin De Bruyne and after the Belgian's shot was blocked, Mahrez pounced to slot home on his weaker right foot. The tie was still far from over as PSG penned City back and should have been at least level on the night before half-time. Marquinhos has made a habit of scoring big Champions League goals and the Brazilian was inches away from another when his looping header came back off the crossbar. Ederson then nearly undid his good work as Di Maria intercepted his hurried throw to Bernardo Silva and flashed a shot inches wide with the Brazilian 'keeper stranded outside his goal. Neymar nullified Pochettino will wonder what could have been had Mbappe been fit with his replacement Icardi ineffective. Neymar only ever showed flashes of his brilliance with City's impressive defence led by Ruben Dias able to focus on stopping the Brazilian without Mbappe to worry about. Guardiola's men have always shown enough quality going forward and a clinical counter-attack killed off the tie in 63 minutes. De Bruyne freed Phil Foden down the left and his inch-perfect cross was blasted high past, Keylor Navas, by Mahrez. In a repeat of the first leg, PSG's discipline went with their hopes of reaching the final. Di Maria needlessly stamped on Fernandinho to be shown a straight red card before Marco Verratti was lucky to escape seeing a second yellow. "They lost their nerve and started to kick us," said Mahrez, rubbing salt in PSG wounds. "After the red card it was good for us."

Mahrez double takes Man City into first Champions League final

Manchester City took a big step towards their first Champions League final as goals by Kevin De Bruyne and Riyad Mahrez earned them a 2-1 comeback win at Paris St Germain in the semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

PSG went ahead courtesy of a Marquinhos header in the first half, but Mauricio Pochettino's side lost control after the break with De Bruyne and Mahrez finding the back of the net in the space of eight minutes to secure City's 18th consecutive away win in all competitions.

Last year's runners-up PSG then found themselves with a higher mountain to climb as midfielder Idrissa Gueye picked up a straight red card in the 77th minute for a reckless challenge on Ilkay Gundogan.

"The second half was much better, the way the first goal went in was a little bit lucky but we played great football in the second half, we did well," De Bruyne said.

Pochettino agreed the visitors were the better team after the interval.

"There were two different halves. In the first half we did well. We created chances and deserved the lead, but in the second half they were better than us," he said.

"The two goals were accidents, but they created more than us."

The French champions will need to show next Tuesday the same away form that enabled them to beat Barcelona at the Camp Nou and Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena in previous rounds if they are to progress.

"At halftime, I told the players we needed to be ourselves. We needed to be more aggressive and we didn't let them breathe after the break," City manager Pep Guardiola said.

City dominated the early possession but PSG were the more dangerous side with Brazilian forward Neymar twice testing City keeper Ederson.

Marquinhos, returning to the team from an injury suffered in the quarter-final first leg against Bayern, put the hosts in front when he headed home Angel Di Maria's whipped corner in the 15th minute.

City, overly cautious for fear of being punished on the break, were again exposed on a set-piece when Leandro Paredes headed Neymar's corner just wide.

Guardiola's side lacked their usual composure, with Joao Cancelo picking up a yellow card for a woeful challenge on Kylian Mbappe.

City's first real chance came in the 42nd minute when Phil Foden, played infield by Bernardo Silva, shot too close to PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas.

The visitors were more attack-minded in the second half and they equalised after 64 minutes when De Bruyne, from a pass by Oleksandr Zinchenko who had just replaced Cancelo, sent in a cross and Navas failed to react as it curled into the far corner of the net.

Navas was beaten again seven minutes later when Mahrez's free kick flew straight through a flimsy PSG wall and past the helpless Navas.

Gueye's dismissal for a wild tackle on Gundogan made City's task easier and they will take a big advantage into the second leg in Manchester.

Manchester City took a big step towards their first Champions League final as goals by Kevin De Bruyne and Riyad Mahrez earned them a 2-1 comeback win at Paris St Germain in the semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

Manchester City took a big step towards their first Champions League final as goals by Kevin De Bruyne and Riyad Mahrez earned them a 2-1 comeback win at Paris St Germain in the semi-final first leg on Wednesday. PSG went ahead courtesy of a Marquinhos header in the first half, but Mauricio Pochettino's side lost control after the break with De Bruyne and Mahrez finding the back of the net in the space of eight minutes to secure City's 18th consecutive away win in all competitions. Last year's runners-up PSG then found themselves with a higher mountain to climb as midfielder Idrissa Gueye picked up a straight red card in the 77th minute for a reckless challenge on Ilkay Gundogan. "The second half was much better, the way the first goal went in was a little bit lucky but we played great football in the second half, we did well," De Bruyne said. Pochettino agreed the visitors were the better team after the interval. "There were two different halves. In the first half we did well. We created chances and deserved the lead, but in the second half they were better than us," he said. "The two goals were accidents, but they created more than us." The French champions will need to show next Tuesday the same away form that enabled them to beat Barcelona at the Camp Nou and Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena in previous rounds if they are to progress. "At halftime, I told the players we needed to be ourselves. We needed to be more aggressive and we didn't let them breathe after the break," City manager Pep Guardiola said. City dominated the early possession but PSG were the more dangerous side with Brazilian forward Neymar twice testing City keeper Ederson. Marquinhos, returning to the team from an injury suffered in the quarter-final first leg against Bayern, put the hosts in front when he headed home Angel Di Maria's whipped corner in the 15th minute. City, overly cautious for fear of being punished on the break, were again exposed on a set-piece when Leandro Paredes headed Neymar's corner just wide. Guardiola's side lacked their usual composure, with Joao Cancelo picking up a yellow card for a woeful challenge on Kylian Mbappe. City's first real chance came in the 42nd minute when Phil Foden, played infield by Bernardo Silva, shot too close to PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas. The visitors were more attack-minded in the second half and they equalised after 64 minutes when De Bruyne, from a pass by Oleksandr Zinchenko who had just replaced Cancelo, sent in a cross and Navas failed to react as it curled into the far corner of the net. Navas was beaten again seven minutes later when Mahrez's free kick flew straight through a flimsy PSG wall and past the helpless Navas. Gueye's dismissal for a wild tackle on Gundogan made City's task easier and they will take a big advantage into the second leg in Manchester.

Manchester City fight back to beat 10-man Paris Saint-Germain in first leg

Paris St Germain will need to maintain their intensity levels throughout the game if they are to overturn a 2-1 deficit against&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;City in their Champions League semi-final second leg next Tuesday, boss Mauricio Pochettino said.

Last year's runners-up PSG got off to a solid start at the Parc des Princes and went ahead through Marquinhos in the 15th minute before being overwhelmed after the interval and conceding two goals and receiving a red card in the space of 14 minutes.

"We were the better team in the first half but then we conceded two goals we normally don't concede," coach Mauricio Pochettino told a news conference.

Kevin De Bruyne netted the equaliser when his cross beat keeper Keylor Navas, who failed to react as it curled into the far corner of the net.

Riyad Mahrez scored the winner with a free kick that sneaked through the wall before Idrissa Gueye picked up a straight red card.

"The key was that we didn't show the same energy with the ball than in the first half," Pochettino explained.

"But we are confident that we can turn this around and approach the second leg the same way. The first half showed that we were right in our approach of the game.

"We just have to keep the same intensity with the ball. That's what we have to improve."

Captain Marquinhos said that PSG needed more composure.

"Sometimes you have to be strategic and intelligent. We conceded two really stupid goals. These are details that will count," he said.

"Above all, we need to have personality. We have to have the mentality to win, to do whatever it takes to get through. We are very close, it's not the time to have doubts."

PSG will take comfort from the fact that they won their two away legs in the previous rounds, 4-1 at Barcelona in the last-16, and 3-2 at holders Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals.

Paris St Germain will need to maintain their intensity levels throughout the game if they are to overturn a 2-1 deficit against Manchester City in their Champions League semi-final second leg next Tuesday, boss Mauricio Pochettino said.

Paris St Germain will need to maintain their intensity levels throughout the game if they are to overturn a 2-1 deficit against Manchester City in their Champions League semi-final second leg next Tuesday, boss Mauricio Pochettino said. Last year's runners-up PSG got off to a solid start at the Parc des Princes and went ahead through Marquinhos in the 15th minute before being overwhelmed after the interval and conceding two goals and receiving a red card in the space of 14 minutes. "We were the better team in the first half but then we conceded two goals we normally don't concede," coach Mauricio Pochettino told a news conference. Kevin De Bruyne netted the equaliser when his cross beat keeper Keylor Navas, who failed to react as it curled into the far corner of the net. Riyad Mahrez scored the winner with a free kick that sneaked through the wall before Idrissa Gueye picked up a straight red card. "The key was that we didn't show the same energy with the ball than in the first half," Pochettino explained. "But we are confident that we can turn this around and approach the second leg the same way. The first half showed that we were right in our approach of the game. "We just have to keep the same intensity with the ball. That's what we have to improve." Captain Marquinhos said that PSG needed more composure. "Sometimes you have to be strategic and intelligent. We conceded two really stupid goals. These are details that will count," he said. "Above all, we need to have personality. We have to have the mentality to win, to do whatever it takes to get through. We are very close, it's not the time to have doubts." PSG will take comfort from the fact that they won their two away legs in the previous rounds, 4-1 at Barcelona in the last-16, and 3-2 at holders Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals.

PSG need to keep up intensity to see off Man City in return leg

The threat of Paris St Germain forwards Neymar and Kylian Mbappe can give opposition managers sleepless nights, said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, adding his side must find a way to stop the duo in Wednesday's Champions League semi-final first leg.

City, who are looking to win Europe's elite club competition for the first time, take on a PSG side that boasts a wealth of attacking talent, and Guardiola said there are no effective defensive strategies against the French champions.

"They're too good. I tried to sleep well last night and that was when I wasn't thinking of them," Guardiola told reporters on the eve of the clash.

"That's the reality. They're top players. That's why they play in that team with the quality they have. We're ready to try to stop them, defend as a team, play good football and try to score goals."

Guardiola first faced Neymar when the Brazil forward was playing for Santos against his Barcelona side in the 2011 Club World Cup.

"I remember when I saw some clips of Santos in that era and I said to the (Barcelona) players, 'This is the king of Santos', and all the players were open-mouthed. They said, 'Oh my God, what a player.' He's a joy to watch as a spectator," he said.

"He has Brazil on his shoulders, the number 10 shirt of Brazil isn't easy to wear."

Neymar went on to play for Barcelona before PSG smashed the world record transfer fee when they spent 222 million euros ($268 million) in 2017 to bring him to Paris.

"I'm pretty sure if he had stayed in Barca they would have won two, three more Champions Leagues. With Neymar, (Lionel) Messi and (Luis) Suarez, the best three I've seen," Guardiola said.

The threat of Paris St Germain forwards Neymar and Kylian Mbappe can give opposition managers sleepless nights, said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, adding his side must find a way to stop the duo in Wednesday's Champions League semi-final first leg.

The threat of Paris St Germain forwards Neymar and Kylian Mbappe can give opposition managers sleepless nights, said Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, adding his side must find a way to stop the duo in Wednesday's Champions League semi-final first leg. City, who are looking to win Europe's elite club competition for the first time, take on a PSG side that boasts a wealth of attacking talent, and Guardiola said there are no effective defensive strategies against the French champions. "They're too good. I tried to sleep well last night and that was when I wasn't thinking of them," Guardiola told reporters on the eve of the clash. "That's the reality. They're top players. That's why they play in that team with the quality they have. We're ready to try to stop them, defend as a team, play good football and try to score goals." Guardiola first faced Neymar when the Brazil forward was playing for Santos against his Barcelona side in the 2011 Club World Cup. "I remember when I saw some clips of Santos in that era and I said to the (Barcelona) players, 'This is the king of Santos', and all the players were open-mouthed. They said, 'Oh my God, what a player.' He's a joy to watch as a spectator," he said. "He has Brazil on his shoulders, the number 10 shirt of Brazil isn't easy to wear." Neymar went on to play for Barcelona before PSG smashed the world record transfer fee when they spent 222 million euros ($268 million) in 2017 to bring him to Paris. "I'm pretty sure if he had stayed in Barca they would have won two, three more Champions Leagues. With Neymar, (Lionel) Messi and (Luis) Suarez, the best three I've seen," Guardiola said.

PSG attack can give managers sleepless nights, says Pep Guardiola

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is fit for Sunday's League Cup final against Tottenham and next week's Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain, Pep Guardiola revealed on Friday.

De Bruyne was a doubt for two of the biggest games of City's season after the Belgium star suffered ankle and foot injuries during last weekend's FA Cup semi-final defeat against Chelsea.

The 29-year-old limped off in the 48th minute at Wembley and missed City's 2-1 win at Aston Villa in the Premier League on Wednesday.

That sparked fears he would not be available for the League Cup final or Wednesday's trip to Paris for the Champions League semi-final first leg.

But City boss Guardiola, speaking at a pre-match press conference, said both De Bruyne and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero would be available after training on Friday.

Aguero, who will leave City at the end of the season, has been struggling with a muscle problem after an injury-plagued campaign.

"They are both (ready), they trained today. Tomorrow we are going to decide," Guardiola said.

Treble-chasing City need eight points from their remaining five games to win a third Premier League title in four seasons.

They are bidding to win the Champions League for the first time, while Guardiola hasn't lifted the trophy since 2011 with Barcelona.

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is fit for Sunday's League Cup final against Tottenham and next week's Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain, Pep Guardiola revealed on Friday.

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is fit for Sunday's League Cup final against Tottenham and next week's Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain, Pep Guardiola revealed on Friday. De Bruyne was a doubt for two of the biggest games of City's season after the Belgium star suffered ankle and foot injuries during last weekend's FA Cup semi-final defeat against Chelsea. The 29-year-old limped off in the 48th minute at Wembley and missed City's 2-1 win at Aston Villa in the Premier League on Wednesday. That sparked fears he would not be available for the League Cup final or Wednesday's trip to Paris for the Champions League semi-final first leg. But City boss Guardiola, speaking at a pre-match press conference, said both De Bruyne and Argentina striker Sergio Aguero would be available after training on Friday. Aguero, who will leave City at the end of the season, has been struggling with a muscle problem after an injury-plagued campaign. "They are both (ready), they trained today. Tomorrow we are going to decide," Guardiola said. Treble-chasing City need eight points from their remaining five games to win a third Premier League title in four seasons. They are bidding to win the Champions League for the first time, while Guardiola hasn't lifted the trophy since 2011 with Barcelona.

Man City's De Bruyne fit for League Cup final, PSG clash

Paris St Germain stayed in the hunt for a fourth successive Ligue 1 title after Mauro Icardi scored in the dying seconds of stoppage time to secure a dramatic 3-2 home win over St Etienne on Sunday. 
 
Icardi headed home a cross from fellow substitute Angel Di Maria to cap a frantic climax after the visitors took a 78th-minute lead and then levelled in the first minute of added time after Kylian Mbappe had turned the game PSG`s way. 
 
The result left PSG second in the standings on 69 points from 33 games, one behind leaders Lille who were held to a 1-1 draw by eighth-placed Montpellier on Friday. 
 
PSG manager Mauricio Pochettino praised his team`s fighting spirit. 
 
"The most important thing is to show character and never give up, always keep fighting and believing that you can get the three points," he said. 
 
"We are all very happy and it was a good performance. I think we deserved to win but we suffered and it was a very emotional finale." 
 
Looking weary from Tuesday`s 1-0 home defeat by Bayern Munich which sent them through to the Champions League semi-finals on away goals, PSG struggled and missed chances against a packed St Etienne defence. 
 
Mbappe was off target three times and Pablo Sarabia hit the post with a free kick before the visitors punished the home side`s profligacy as Denis Bouanga superbly steered in a Miguel Trauco cross from the left. 
 
Mbappe equalised 30 seconds later with a deft finish from close range after controlling a lofted Ander Herrera pass and the France forward fired PSG ahead with an 87th-minute penalty after he was brought down by goalkeeper Etienne Green. 
 
The home side`s joy was short-lived, however, as Romain Hamouma levelled with a tap-in from two metres after PSG keeper Sergio Rico failed to deal with Bouanga`s shot from the edge of the penalty area. 
 
It looked like it was not going to be PSG`s day when Di Maria rattled the post with an inswinging corner but the Argentine curled in a cross from the right moments later for Icardi to head home. 
 
Third-placed AS Monaco, who are five points behind Lille, visit 16th-placed Girondins Bordeaux while Olympique Lyonnais, a further point adrift in fourth, take on second-bottom Nantes away later on Sunday.

Paris St Germain stayed in the hunt for a fourth successive Ligue 1 title after Mauro Icardi scored in the dying seconds of stoppage time to secure a dramatic 3-2 home win over St Etienne on Sunday.

Paris St Germain stayed in the hunt for a fourth successive Ligue 1 title after Mauro Icardi scored in the dying seconds of stoppage time to secure a dramatic 3-2 home win over St Etienne on Sunday. Icardi headed home a cross from fellow substitute Angel Di Maria to cap a frantic climax after the visitors took a 78th-minute lead and then levelled in the first minute of added time after Kylian Mbappe had turned the game PSG`s way. The result left PSG second in the standings on 69 points from 33 games, one behind leaders Lille who were held to a 1-1 draw by eighth-placed Montpellier on Friday. PSG manager Mauricio Pochettino praised his team`s fighting spirit. "The most important thing is to show character and never give up, always keep fighting and believing that you can get the three points," he said. "We are all very happy and it was a good performance. I think we deserved to win but we suffered and it was a very emotional finale." Looking weary from Tuesday`s 1-0 home defeat by Bayern Munich which sent them through to the Champions League semi-finals on away goals, PSG struggled and missed chances against a packed St Etienne defence. Mbappe was off target three times and Pablo Sarabia hit the post with a free kick before the visitors punished the home side`s profligacy as Denis Bouanga superbly steered in a Miguel Trauco cross from the left. Mbappe equalised 30 seconds later with a deft finish from close range after controlling a lofted Ander Herrera pass and the France forward fired PSG ahead with an 87th-minute penalty after he was brought down by goalkeeper Etienne Green. The home side`s joy was short-lived, however, as Romain Hamouma levelled with a tap-in from two metres after PSG keeper Sergio Rico failed to deal with Bouanga`s shot from the edge of the penalty area. It looked like it was not going to be PSG`s day when Di Maria rattled the post with an inswinging corner but the Argentine curled in a cross from the right moments later for Icardi to head home. Third-placed AS Monaco, who are five points behind Lille, visit 16th-placed Girondins Bordeaux while Olympique Lyonnais, a further point adrift in fourth, take on second-bottom Nantes away later on Sunday.

Ligue 1: Last-gasp Icardi goal boosts PSG title bid

Kylian Mbappe insisted Paris Saint-Germain still have it all to do after he scored twice in a thrilling 3-2 win at holders Bayern Munich in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg.

Bayern had their 19-match unbeaten run in the Champions League ended in a repeat of last year's final, as the German giants suffered their first European defeat since March 2019.

PSG&nbsp;raced into a 2-0 lead after just 28 minutes behind closed doors at the Allianz Arena as Neymar created goals for Mbappe and Marquinhos.

Bayern, whose top scorer Robert Lewandowski is sidelined by a knee injury, drew level courtesy of headers by Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and Thomas Mueller.

However, Mbappe showed his class with a superb second goal to give the visitors an advantage for the return leg in Paris.

"We used all our chances and had a bit of luck, but nothing has been decided," Mbappe told Sky, with the second leg to come in Paris on Tuesday.

PSG&nbsp;goalkeeper Keylor Navas played a key role with a&nbsp;string of saves as Bayern peppered his goal with 31 shots compared to the French club's six.

"We have to score a lot more goals," said Mueller. "If it had ended 5-3 or 6-3 for us, no one could have complained based on the chances."

Bayern coach Hansi Flick, who finished on the losing side for the first time in the Champions League, also rued the number of missed chances.

"With the chances we had, we could have got a good result despite conceding three goals," Flick said.

"We don't like to lose, but the way the team played was top."

This was a record 19th appearance in the Champions League quarter-finals for Bayern, but there was little for them to celebrate at the final whistle.

"Kylian Mbappe made the difference. It's a very positive result for us, but everything is still open," said&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;coach Maurico Pochettino.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Marquinhos scores and limps off -</h2>

&nbsp;

Covid-19 cast its shadow over both teams with Bayern winger Serge Gnabry, plus&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;pair Alessandro Florenzi and Marco Verratti quarantined after testing positive.

Heavy snow fell in the first half in Munich as the visitors put the heat on the holders.

The opening goal came after Neymar sprinted through a gaping hole in the defence and laid the ball off for Mbappe, whose shot flew into the net through Manuel Neuer's legs.

PSG&nbsp;forward Julian Draxler had a goal disallowed with Mbappe offside in the build-up as the visitors kept up the pressure.

Bayern midfielder Leon Goretzka powered a header into the feet of Navas&nbsp;just before the hosts fell two goals behind.

A clearance kick only got as far as Neymar, whose ball over the top found Marquinhos unmarked in the area to stroke his shot past Neuer, shortly before the&nbsp;PSG&nbsp;captain limped off injured.

Flick responded by bringing on Alphonso Davies to provide pace on the flanks and moved David Alaba into defensive midfield.&nbsp;

The hosts pulled a goal back when Mueller's cross was headed past Navas by Choupo-Moting to make it 2-1 at half-time.

Neymar was denied by Neuer and Angel Di Maria had an effort cleared off the line, while Leroy Sane went close at the other end for Bayern as both teams had their chances after the break.

Bayern then equalised when Mueller nodded in a superb Joshua Kimmich free-kick on the hour.

However, the wintry night in Munich belonged to Mbappe, who showed his class by turning Bayern defender Jerome Boateng inside and out before driving his shot past Neuer with 22 minutes left.

Bayern went down fighting as Alaba and Mueller both fired agonisingly wide in the dying stages.&nbsp;

Kylian Mbappe insisted Paris Saint-Germain still have it all to do after he scored twice in a thrilling 3-2 win at holders Bayern Munich in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg.

Kylian Mbappe insisted Paris Saint-Germain still have it all to do after he scored twice in a thrilling 3-2 win at holders Bayern Munich in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg. Bayern had their 19-match unbeaten run in the Champions League ended in a repeat of last year's final, as the German giants suffered their first European defeat since March 2019. PSG raced into a 2-0 lead after just 28 minutes behind closed doors at the Allianz Arena as Neymar created goals for Mbappe and Marquinhos. Bayern, whose top scorer Robert Lewandowski is sidelined by a knee injury, drew level courtesy of headers by Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and Thomas Mueller. However, Mbappe showed his class with a superb second goal to give the visitors an advantage for the return leg in Paris. "We used all our chances and had a bit of luck, but nothing has been decided," Mbappe told Sky, with the second leg to come in Paris on Tuesday. PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas played a key role with a string of saves as Bayern peppered his goal with 31 shots compared to the French club's six. "We have to score a lot more goals," said Mueller. "If it had ended 5-3 or 6-3 for us, no one could have complained based on the chances." Bayern coach Hansi Flick, who finished on the losing side for the first time in the Champions League, also rued the number of missed chances. "With the chances we had, we could have got a good result despite conceding three goals," Flick said. "We don't like to lose, but the way the team played was top." This was a record 19th appearance in the Champions League quarter-finals for Bayern, but there was little for them to celebrate at the final whistle. "Kylian Mbappe made the difference. It's a very positive result for us, but everything is still open," said PSG coach Maurico Pochettino. - Marquinhos scores and limps off - Covid-19 cast its shadow over both teams with Bayern winger Serge Gnabry, plus PSG pair Alessandro Florenzi and Marco Verratti quarantined after testing positive. Heavy snow fell in the first half in Munich as the visitors put the heat on the holders. The opening goal came after Neymar sprinted through a gaping hole in the defence and laid the ball off for Mbappe, whose shot flew into the net through Manuel Neuer's legs. PSG forward Julian Draxler had a goal disallowed with Mbappe offside in the build-up as the visitors kept up the pressure. Bayern midfielder Leon Goretzka powered a header into the feet of Navas just before the hosts fell two goals behind. A clearance kick only got as far as Neymar, whose ball over the top found Marquinhos unmarked in the area to stroke his shot past Neuer, shortly before the PSG captain limped off injured. Flick responded by bringing on Alphonso Davies to provide pace on the flanks and moved David Alaba into defensive midfield. The hosts pulled a goal back when Mueller's cross was headed past Navas by Choupo-Moting to make it 2-1 at half-time. Neymar was denied by Neuer and Angel Di Maria had an effort cleared off the line, while Leroy Sane went close at the other end for Bayern as both teams had their chances after the break. Bayern then equalised when Mueller nodded in a superb Joshua Kimmich free-kick on the hour. However, the wintry night in Munich belonged to Mbappe, who showed his class by turning Bayern defender Jerome Boateng inside and out before driving his shot past Neuer with 22 minutes left. Bayern went down fighting as Alaba and Mueller both fired agonisingly wide in the dying stages.

UEFA Champions League: Mbappe stars as PSG win at holders Bayern Munich

Paris Saint-Germain forward Angel Di Maria was the victim of a burglary during Sunday's loss to Nantes, while robbers also targeted the family home of captain Marquinhos, the latest in a spate of thefts at the club.

Thieves stole jewellery and watches from the house of Argentine international Di Maria in the western Paris suburbs, but "there was no violence" involved, sources told AFP on Monday.

According to the police's special anti-robbery squad, the player's family was home at the time but "didn't come across" the thieves, a source close to the case explained.

They "didn't hear anything" during the ransacking of a safe located upstairs in the home in Neuilly, a police source added. The value of stolen goods has yet to be assessed but is said to be less than 500,000 euros ($600,000).

Di Maria last week signed a one-year extension to his PSG contract until 2022. He was replaced an hour into the 2-1 loss to Nantes following a discussion between sporting director Leonardo and coach Mauricio Pochettino.

The family home of Brazil international Marquinhos was also robbed in the Paris region.

The player's father and two sisters were home during the break-in. A police source said the father was struck in the ribs by the attackers but no injuries were sustained. Several bags containing valuables were stolen, the contents of which have yet to be determined.

PSG forward Mauro Icardi was the victim of a break-in at his home last month. Thiago Silva, Dani Alves and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting were also robbed in recent years while playing for the club.

The commotion off the field seemed to affect PSG's players as Nantes dealt the French champions a seventh Ligue 1 defeat of the season.

"It's not an excuse but there has been an unusual drop in energy," Pochettino said after the match. "We spoke with the players but not about what happened in terms of the football."

"There are situations outside the game which must be considered."

Di Maria previously admitted that an attempted robbery on his family's home during his one year at Manchester United, in 2014-15, had left him keen to leave the Premier League club.

Paris Saint-Germain forward Angel Di Maria was the victim of a burglary during Sunday's loss to Nantes, while robbers also targeted the family home of captain Marquinhos, the latest in a spate of thefts at the club.

Paris Saint-Germain forward Angel Di Maria was the victim of a burglary during Sunday's loss to Nantes, while robbers also targeted the family home of captain Marquinhos, the latest in a spate of thefts at the club. Thieves stole jewellery and watches from the house of Argentine international Di Maria in the western Paris suburbs, but "there was no violence" involved, sources told AFP on Monday. According to the police's special anti-robbery squad, the player's family was home at the time but "didn't come across" the thieves, a source close to the case explained. They "didn't hear anything" during the ransacking of a safe located upstairs in the home in Neuilly, a police source added. The value of stolen goods has yet to be assessed but is said to be less than 500,000 euros ($600,000). Di Maria last week signed a one-year extension to his PSG contract until 2022. He was replaced an hour into the 2-1 loss to Nantes following a discussion between sporting director Leonardo and coach Mauricio Pochettino. The family home of Brazil international Marquinhos was also robbed in the Paris region. The player's father and two sisters were home during the break-in. A police source said the father was struck in the ribs by the attackers but no injuries were sustained. Several bags containing valuables were stolen, the contents of which have yet to be determined. PSG forward Mauro Icardi was the victim of a break-in at his home last month. Thiago Silva, Dani Alves and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting were also robbed in recent years while playing for the club. The commotion off the field seemed to affect PSG's players as Nantes dealt the French champions a seventh Ligue 1 defeat of the season. "It's not an excuse but there has been an unusual drop in energy," Pochettino said after the match. "We spoke with the players but not about what happened in terms of the football." "There are situations outside the game which must be considered." Di Maria previously admitted that an attempted robbery on his family's home during his one year at Manchester United, in 2014-15, had left him keen to leave the Premier League club.

PSG loss overshadowed by thefts at Di Maria, Marquinhos homes

Argentina and Paris Saint Germain star Angel Di Maria on Friday signed a one-year extension with French giants keeping him in the club until June 2022, defending Ligue 1 champs announced.&nbsp;

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According to the statement released by Paris Saint Germain, the deal included the option for an extra season.

The 33-year-old winger joined the French club in 2015 after a bad spell with Manchester United. Di Maria has also played with Real Madrid, Benfica and Rosario Central.

However, Paris Saint Germain's main focus is to extend the contracts of Kylian Mbappe and Neymar, whose deals&nbsp;are set to expire at the end of next season.

The Qatar-owned club this week ousted Barcelona to qualify for the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League, while they currently sit second in Ligue 1, two points behind leaders Lille.

The French Giants moved into the quarterfinals in the UEFA Champions League after beating Barcelona 5-2 (aggregate score) in the Round of 16.

Argentina and Paris Saint Germain star Angel Di Maria on Friday signed a one-year extension with French giants keeping him in the club until June 2022, defending Ligue 1 champs announced.

Argentina and Paris Saint Germain star Angel Di Maria on Friday signed a one-year extension with French giants keeping him in the club until June 2022, defending Ligue 1 champs announced. ALSO READ: Spurs boss Mourinho expects 'master' Kane to be fit to face Arsenal According to the statement released by Paris Saint Germain, the deal included the option for an extra season. The 33-year-old winger joined the French club in 2015 after a bad spell with Manchester United. Di Maria has also played with Real Madrid, Benfica and Rosario Central. However, Paris Saint Germain's main focus is to extend the contracts of Kylian Mbappe and Neymar, whose deals are set to expire at the end of next season. The Qatar-owned club this week ousted Barcelona to qualify for the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League, while they currently sit second in Ligue 1, two points behind leaders Lille. The French Giants moved into the quarterfinals in the UEFA Champions League after beating Barcelona 5-2 (aggregate score) in the Round of 16.

Angel Di Maria extends Paris Saint Germain contract until 2022: Club

&nbsp;Lionel Messi scored with two scorching strikes as Barcelona hammered Alaves 5-1 on Saturday in La Liga to warm up for their upcoming Champions League clash with Paris St Germain in style.

Portuguese forward Francisco Trincao put Barca in front after a cut-back from 18-year-old debutant midfielder Ilaix Moriba and Messi thought he had doubled the lead later on when knocking in on the rebound but the goal was ruled out for a marginal offside against Antoine Griezmann.

Messi then took matters in to his own hands from outside the area and thumped the ball off the far post with such venom that it landed just inside the opposite post.

Alaves's Luis Rioja pounced on a mistake by Ilaix to reduce the deficit in the second half but Barca came roaring back with a second strike from Trincao, another long-range missile from Messi and then a fifth goal crafted by Messi and Griezmann and finished off by left back Junior Firpo.

A seventh consecutive league win took Barca up to second in the standings on 46 points, eight behind leaders Atletico Madrid.

"Messi is in a fantastic moment of form," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman.

"We know how decisive he is and right now he is in the mood. With him playing in this form, everything is easier. If we want to beat PSG, we need Leo and everyone else at the top of their game."

Barca had suffered a painful 2-0 defeat to Sevilla in Wednesday's Copa del Rey semi-final first leg and Koeman rotated his side to make for fresher legs for Tuesday's first leg at home to PSG.

He rested Jordi Alba and started without Sergino Dest, Ousmane Dembele and Pedri but there was no rest for Messi, who unleashed a ferocious shot for his first goal.

He also sparked the move for Barca's third goal, racing on to a through ball and attempting to round keeper Fernando Pacheco, who succeeded in snuffing out Messi but could only parry the ball into the path of Trincao, who tucked it into the net.

Messi was hungry for a second goal of his own, however, and got one less than 60 seconds later, dribbling past two defenders outside the area and rattling a left-footed shot into the far corner.

Now toying with his prey, he released Griezmann with a delicious chipped pass and the Frenchman sent in a low cross for Firpo to complete the thrashing.

Koeman expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance after making several changes and said they were feeling confident ahead of Tuesday's showdown against PSG, who will be without an injured Neymar.

"We believe we can get through the tie. They have some injuries but so do we and we'll have to play very well to knock them out," added the coach.

"We have to be more efficient than ever in attack and strong in defence. I'm sure it'll be a marvellous game."

Lionel Messi scored with two scorching strikes as Barcelona hammered Alaves 5-1 on Saturday in La Liga to warm up for their upcoming Champions League clash with Paris St Germain in style.

Lionel Messi scored with two scorching strikes as Barcelona hammered Alaves 5-1 on Saturday in La Liga to warm up for their upcoming Champions League clash with Paris St Germain in style. Portuguese forward Francisco Trincao put Barca in front after a cut-back from 18-year-old debutant midfielder Ilaix Moriba and Messi thought he had doubled the lead later on when knocking in on the rebound but the goal was ruled out for a marginal offside against Antoine Griezmann. Messi then took matters in to his own hands from outside the area and thumped the ball off the far post with such venom that it landed just inside the opposite post. Alaves's Luis Rioja pounced on a mistake by Ilaix to reduce the deficit in the second half but Barca came roaring back with a second strike from Trincao, another long-range missile from Messi and then a fifth goal crafted by Messi and Griezmann and finished off by left back Junior Firpo. A seventh consecutive league win took Barca up to second in the standings on 46 points, eight behind leaders Atletico Madrid. "Messi is in a fantastic moment of form," said Barca coach Ronald Koeman. "We know how decisive he is and right now he is in the mood. With him playing in this form, everything is easier. If we want to beat PSG, we need Leo and everyone else at the top of their game." Barca had suffered a painful 2-0 defeat to Sevilla in Wednesday's Copa del Rey semi-final first leg and Koeman rotated his side to make for fresher legs for Tuesday's first leg at home to PSG. He rested Jordi Alba and started without Sergino Dest, Ousmane Dembele and Pedri but there was no rest for Messi, who unleashed a ferocious shot for his first goal. He also sparked the move for Barca's third goal, racing on to a through ball and attempting to round keeper Fernando Pacheco, who succeeded in snuffing out Messi but could only parry the ball into the path of Trincao, who tucked it into the net. Messi was hungry for a second goal of his own, however, and got one less than 60 seconds later, dribbling past two defenders outside the area and rattling a left-footed shot into the far corner. Now toying with his prey, he released Griezmann with a delicious chipped pass and the Frenchman sent in a low cross for Firpo to complete the thrashing. Koeman expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance after making several changes and said they were feeling confident ahead of Tuesday's showdown against PSG, who will be without an injured Neymar. "We believe we can get through the tie. They have some injuries but so do we and we'll have to play very well to knock them out," added the coach. "We have to be more efficient than ever in attack and strong in defence. I'm sure it'll be a marvellous game."

Barcelona rout Alaves to fire warning shot to PSG

Paris St Germain striker Neymar Jr. has been ruled out of next week's Champions League clash against his former club Barcelona in the last-16, the first leg as the Brazilian star's groin injury will sideline him for four weeks, the French giants said on Thursday.&nbsp;

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Steeve Yago's tackle on 56th minute in the French Cup clash against Caen forced Neymar to limp off the field and be replaced by Kylian Mbappe.&nbsp;

The span of the injury casts a major cloud on Neymar's availability for the second leg of Champions League too, as Parc des Princes will host Barcelona on March 10.&nbsp;

The Brazil international spent four seasons at Barcelona and scored 105 goals before making a world record 222 million euros ($269.51 million) move to PSG in 2017.

However, PSG will be worried as Angel Di Maria and Neymar will be absent for the crucial fixture.&nbsp;

Paris St Germain striker Neymar Jr. has been ruled out of next week's Champions League clash against his former club Barcelona in the last-16, the first leg as the Brazilian star's groin injury will sideline him for four weeks, the French giants said on Thursday.

Paris St Germain striker Neymar Jr. has been ruled out of next week's Champions League clash against his former club Barcelona in the last-16, the first leg as the Brazilian star's groin injury will sideline him for four weeks, the French giants said on Thursday. ALSO READ: Bayern beat Tigres 1-0 in Club World Cup final for sixth title in 9 months Steeve Yago's tackle on 56th minute in the French Cup clash against Caen forced Neymar to limp off the field and be replaced by Kylian Mbappe. The span of the injury casts a major cloud on Neymar's availability for the second leg of Champions League too, as Parc des Princes will host Barcelona on March 10. The Brazil international spent four seasons at Barcelona and scored 105 goals before making a world record 222 million euros ($269.51 million) move to PSG in 2017. However, PSG will be worried as Angel Di Maria and Neymar will be absent for the crucial fixture.

Neymar to miss trip to Barcelona for Champions League clash due to groin injury

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar has reportedly agreed to a four-year contract extension with the French giants after months of negotiations.&nbsp;

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As per a report in the ESPN, the Brazilian forward, whose contract was set to expire in June 2022, will now stay in Paris until 2026. Neymar was has been very vocal about staying in the club for a longer duration.&nbsp;

In an interview on French television, Neymar said that he wants to stay in the club. PSG's sporting director, Leonardo, was instrumental in the negotiations and the agreement between the club and Neymar.

The sporting director now plans to do the same with Kylian Mbappe, whose contract is set to expire in 18 months. But the French star is yet to decide on his future in the club as he is rumoured to be linked with Real Madrid.

Since arriving at Pard des Princes in August 2017, Neymar has won three Ligue 1 titles, to go with two Coupes de France, two Coupes de la Ligue and two Trophees des Champions. The Brazilian left Barcelona on world-record fee off €222 million.&nbsp;

He reached the 100 games milestone for the club last week, before the defeat at Lorient after scoring a brace on Sunday.

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar has reportedly agreed to a four-year contract extension with the French giants after months of negotiations. ALSO READ: ISL club Odisha FC sack head coach Stuart Baxter after shocking rape analogy As per a report in the ESPN, the Brazilian forward, whose contract was set to expire in June 2022, will now stay in Paris until 2026.

Paris Saint Germain star Neymar has reportedly agreed to a four-year contract extension with the French giants after months of negotiations. ALSO READ: ISL club Odisha FC sack head coach Stuart Baxter after shocking rape analogy As per a report in the ESPN, the Brazilian forward, whose contract was set to expire in June 2022, will now stay in Paris until 2026. Neymar was has been very vocal about staying in the club for a longer duration. In an interview on French television, Neymar said that he wants to stay in the club. PSG's sporting director, Leonardo, was instrumental in the negotiations and the agreement between the club and Neymar. The sporting director now plans to do the same with Kylian Mbappe, whose contract is set to expire in 18 months. But the French star is yet to decide on his future in the club as he is rumoured to be linked with Real Madrid. Since arriving at Pard des Princes in August 2017, Neymar has won three Ligue 1 titles, to go with two Coupes de France, two Coupes de la Ligue and two Trophees des Champions. The Brazilian left Barcelona on world-record fee off €222 million. He reached the 100 games milestone for the club last week, before the defeat at Lorient after scoring a brace on Sunday.

Football star Neymar extends his contract with Paris Saint-Germain: Report

Paris Saint-Germain suffered their first defeat under Mauricio Pochettino as lowly Lorient fought back to claim a dramatic 3-2 victory on Sunday, allowing Lille to go top of Ligue 1.

Neymar scored two penalties but the visitors collapsed late on at the Stade du Moustoir, as Nigerian Terem Moffi netted an injury-time winner.

PSG drop to third, one point behind second-placed Lyon, with Lille a further two points ahead after their 1-0 win over Dijon.

"We have to keep the positive aspects and move forward," said former Tottenham manager Pochettino.

"Accidents happen in football. We have to keep working. It makes us realise that it can happen if we don't play at 100 percent."

It was the first defeat in six games as PSG coach for Pochettino since he took over from the sacked Thomas Tuchel.

The win takes struggling Lorient into the relegation play-off spot.

"(Moffi's goal) was magical. Against PSG, it's even crazier," said Lorient's Laurent Abergel, who scored the opening goal.

"For a Marseille fan like me, the first dream is perhaps to play for OM and the second to beat PSG."

Lorient started brightly and had the first real shot in anger in the 30th minute, as Adrian Grbic's long-range strike had to be pushed away by PSG goalkeeper Sergio Rico.

The hosts did take the lead six minutes later, though, as PSG failed several times to clear and Abergel picked out the top corner with the outside of his left boot.

Neymar levelled on the stroke of half-time from the penalty spot with his fifth league goal of the season.

PSG improved after the break and took the lead in the 57th minute as Houboulang Mendes, who also conceded the first penalty, brought down Mauro Icardi and Neymar again made no mistake.

It was the first time since Zlatan Ibrahimovic in 2015 that a PSG player had netted two spot-kicks in a Ligue 1 match.

The visitors pressed for a third, but Lorient goalkeeper Matthieu Dreyer made an excellent stop to keep out an Icardi header.

That proved to be crucial, as the stubborn home side equalised in the 80th minute.

Substitute Yoane Wissa scored an excellent individual goal, his sixth of his first full campaign as a top-flight player.

PSG went in search of a winner, but the closest they came saw full-back Layvin Kurzawa's drive fly narrowly wide.

They over-committed in the second minute of added time, leaving no defenders within 60 yards of their own goal as Moffi was sent racing clean through.

The 21-year-old, on as a sub, slotted the ball into the bottom corner to spark wild celebrations for the home team.

<h2>- Lille march on -</h2>

Christophe Galtier's Lille took full advantage of PSG's slip-up with their fourth straight league success.

Sven Botman missed an early chance for the home side against Dijon, but Lille took a 29th-minute lead through Yusuf Yazici.

It was the 24-year-old Turkish international's sixth league goal of the season, despite having only made seven starts in the Ligue 1 campaign.

Jonathan Bamba wasted an excellent opportunity to double the lead midway through the second half when he headed over from close range, but Lille comfortably saw out victory.

"Now, we are in the shoes of the hunted," said Lille coach Galtier. "You have to appreciate it and take it on. We'll see how we react."

Lille are bidding for their first major trophy since winning both Ligue 1 and the French Cup in 2011.

Monaco are also in the hunt after their fifth win on the bounce, 2-1 at Nantes, which puts Nico Kovac's side six points behind leaders Lille and just three behind PSG in the hunt for Champions League spots.

Guillermo Maripan headed home the opener in first half stoppage time, and Kevin Volland doubled their lead just before the hour mark.

Renaud Emond pulled one back for Nantes with eight minutes remaining despite Nicolas Pallois having been sent off for dissent 10 minutes before, but remain winless under new coach Raymond Domenech.

Paris Saint-Germain suffered their first defeat under Mauricio Pochettino as lowly Lorient fought back to claim a dramatic 3-2 victory on Sunday, allowing Lille to go top of Ligue 1.

Paris Saint-Germain suffered their first defeat under Mauricio Pochettino as lowly Lorient fought back to claim a dramatic 3-2 victory on Sunday, allowing Lille to go top of Ligue 1. Neymar scored two penalties but the visitors collapsed late on at the Stade du Moustoir, as Nigerian Terem Moffi netted an injury-time winner. PSG drop to third, one point behind second-placed Lyon, with Lille a further two points ahead after their 1-0 win over Dijon. "We have to keep the positive aspects and move forward," said former Tottenham manager Pochettino. "Accidents happen in football. We have to keep working. It makes us realise that it can happen if we don't play at 100 percent." It was the first defeat in six games as PSG coach for Pochettino since he took over from the sacked Thomas Tuchel. The win takes struggling Lorient into the relegation play-off spot. "(Moffi's goal) was magical. Against PSG, it's even crazier," said Lorient's Laurent Abergel, who scored the opening goal. "For a Marseille fan like me, the first dream is perhaps to play for OM and the second to beat PSG." Lorient started brightly and had the first real shot in anger in the 30th minute, as Adrian Grbic's long-range strike had to be pushed away by PSG goalkeeper Sergio Rico. The hosts did take the lead six minutes later, though, as PSG failed several times to clear and Abergel picked out the top corner with the outside of his left boot. Neymar levelled on the stroke of half-time from the penalty spot with his fifth league goal of the season. PSG improved after the break and took the lead in the 57th minute as Houboulang Mendes, who also conceded the first penalty, brought down Mauro Icardi and Neymar again made no mistake. It was the first time since Zlatan Ibrahimovic in 2015 that a PSG player had netted two spot-kicks in a Ligue 1 match. The visitors pressed for a third, but Lorient goalkeeper Matthieu Dreyer made an excellent stop to keep out an Icardi header. That proved to be crucial, as the stubborn home side equalised in the 80th minute. Substitute Yoane Wissa scored an excellent individual goal, his sixth of his first full campaign as a top-flight player. PSG went in search of a winner, but the closest they came saw full-back Layvin Kurzawa's drive fly narrowly wide. They over-committed in the second minute of added time, leaving no defenders within 60 yards of their own goal as Moffi was sent racing clean through. The 21-year-old, on as a sub, slotted the ball into the bottom corner to spark wild celebrations for the home team. - Lille march on - Christophe Galtier's Lille took full advantage of PSG's slip-up with their fourth straight league success. Sven Botman missed an early chance for the home side against Dijon, but Lille took a 29th-minute lead through Yusuf Yazici. It was the 24-year-old Turkish international's sixth league goal of the season, despite having only made seven starts in the Ligue 1 campaign. Jonathan Bamba wasted an excellent opportunity to double the lead midway through the second half when he headed over from close range, but Lille comfortably saw out victory. "Now, we are in the shoes of the hunted," said Lille coach Galtier. "You have to appreciate it and take it on. We'll see how we react." Lille are bidding for their first major trophy since winning both Ligue 1 and the French Cup in 2011. Monaco are also in the hunt after their fifth win on the bounce, 2-1 at Nantes, which puts Nico Kovac's side six points behind leaders Lille and just three behind PSG in the hunt for Champions League spots. Guillermo Maripan headed home the opener in first half stoppage time, and Kevin Volland doubled their lead just before the hour mark. Renaud Emond pulled one back for Nantes with eight minutes remaining despite Nicolas Pallois having been sent off for dissent 10 minutes before, but remain winless under new coach Raymond Domenech.

PSG suffer first defeat under Pochettino to allow Lille to move top

Paris Saint Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino has tested positive for coronavirus on Friday. The club on Friday released a statement and said that the Argentine will miss weekend's Ligue 1 clash against Angers.&nbsp;

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The Argentine coach's assistants Jesus Perez and Miguel D'Agostino are set to take charge of the squad for Saturday's league encounter.

"Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has tested positive for Sars-Cov2 after a PCR test. He will now be in isolation and follow the appropriate medical advice," the club said in a statement.

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Paris Saint-Germain had officially appointed Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach after sacking German coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. The Argentine immediately vowed to "to win with style". &nbsp;

The French club took to their website announced the news and said that Pochettino had signed a contract until June 30, 2022, with an option for an additional year.

"PSG are one of the biggest clubs in the world," the 48-year-old told the club's TV channel. "So it's not only important to win but to win with style." However, he added: "Discipline is important, respect, friendship between the players but also all the staff."

Defending league champions PSG are a point behind leaders Olympique Lyonnais at the halfway stage of the season.

Recently, Paris Saint Germain's 2-1 win over Marseille in the French Super Cup ensured first silverware for the new manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Paris Saint Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino has tested positive for coronavirus on Friday. The club on Friday released a statement and said that the Argentine will miss weekend's Ligue 1 clash against Angers.

Paris Saint Germain coach Mauricio Pochettino has tested positive for coronavirus on Friday. The club on Friday released a statement and said that the Argentine will miss weekend's Ligue 1 clash against Angers. ALSO READ: Mourinho says not discussed Bale's future for one second The Argentine coach's assistants Jesus Perez and Miguel D'Agostino are set to take charge of the squad for Saturday's league encounter. "Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has tested positive for Sars-Cov2 after a PCR test. He will now be in isolation and follow the appropriate medical advice," the club said in a statement. ALSO READ: Form goes out the window against Liverpool, says Man Utd's Solskjaer Paris Saint-Germain had officially appointed Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach after sacking German coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. The Argentine immediately vowed to "to win with style". The French club took to their website announced the news and said that Pochettino had signed a contract until June 30, 2022, with an option for an additional year. "PSG are one of the biggest clubs in the world," the 48-year-old told the club's TV channel. "So it's not only important to win but to win with style." However, he added: "Discipline is important, respect, friendship between the players but also all the staff." Defending league champions PSG are a point behind leaders Olympique Lyonnais at the halfway stage of the season. Recently, Paris Saint Germain's 2-1 win over Marseille in the French Super Cup ensured first silverware for the new manager Mauricio Pochettino.

PSG's new head coach Mauricio Pochettino tests positive for COVID-19, will miss Angers clash

Neymar and Alvaro Gonzalez renewed their bitter rivalry after a fiery fixture between PSG and Marseille on Wednesday. However, this time both players exchanged words on social media and not on the pitch.&nbsp;

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The feud between Neymar and Alvaro started in September after the Brazilian forward was sent off for slapping Gonzalez from behind. Neymar went on to accuse Gonzalez of making racist remarks. However, the French Federation investigation later cleared Gonzalez.

Paris Saint Germain's 2-1 win over Marseille in the French Super Cup ensured first silverware for the new manager Mauricio Pochettino.

The Twitter war was started by Neymar, who took to Twitter to mock the OM player. He captioned his post: "King, Alvaro born?"

To which Alvaro responded: "My parents always taught me to take out the trash. Go OM (Olympique Marseille) always."

The Brazilian superstar was quick to respond and said: "And he forgot to win TITLES."

Gonzalez went on to tweet Brazilian legend Pele's photo and captioned it: "Eternal shadow of the King."

Neymar replied: "And you mine, I made you famous. You're welcome."

Despite Payet's late goal, Mauro Icardi and Neymar's goals ensured Paris' victory over their bitter rivals.&nbsp;

Neymar and Alvaro Gonzalez renewed their bitter rivalry after a fiery fixture between PSG and Marseille on Wednesday. However, this time both players exchanged words on social media and not on the pitch.

Neymar and Alvaro Gonzalez renewed their bitter rivalry after a fiery fixture between PSG and Marseille on Wednesday. However, this time both players exchanged words on social media and not on the pitch. ALSO READ: 'Shocked' Bayern Munich knocked out of German Cup by second division Kiel The feud between Neymar and Alvaro started in September after the Brazilian forward was sent off for slapping Gonzalez from behind. Neymar went on to accuse Gonzalez of making racist remarks. However, the French Federation investigation later cleared Gonzalez. Paris Saint Germain's 2-1 win over Marseille in the French Super Cup ensured first silverware for the new manager Mauricio Pochettino. The Twitter war was started by Neymar, who took to Twitter to mock the OM player. He captioned his post: "King, Alvaro born?" To which Alvaro responded: "My parents always taught me to take out the trash. Go OM (Olympique Marseille) always." The Brazilian superstar was quick to respond and said: "And he forgot to win TITLES." Gonzalez went on to tweet Brazilian legend Pele's photo and captioned it: "Eternal shadow of the King." Neymar replied: "And you mine, I made you famous. You're welcome." Despite Payet's late goal, Mauro Icardi and Neymar's goals ensured Paris' victory over their bitter rivals.

'King, Alvaro born?': Neymar and Gonzalez renew their rivalry after French Super Cup clash

Mauricio Pochettino's first match as Paris Saint-Germain coach ended in a 1-1 draw at Saint-Etienne on Wednesday as his new team slipped three points behind Ligue 1 leaders Lyon.

The defending league champions fell behind early on to Romain Hamouma's strike before Moise Kean levelled soon after, but laboured in the second half and failed to find a winner.

"Of course I'm disappointed because we're PSG, we want to win," Pochettino told Telefoot. "I'm happy with the effort made by the players, by their attitude."

The former Tottenham boss was only confirmed as Thomas Tuchel's successor on Saturday, four days after the German's sacking was officially announced.

But the scale of the task facing the former PSG defender was laid out in front of him at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard as the capital-city giants' title defence suffered another blow.

"This is just the beginning," added the 48-year-old Pochettino. "We have to get to know each other. It was difficult because the preparation was too short.

"It's positive but there are things to improve."

Lyon survived a late Lens comeback to extend their lead with a 3-2 win, with Memphis Depay's double proving crucial.

PSG did move into second, above Lille on goal difference, after Christophe Galtier's team slipped to a surprise 2-1 home loss to Angers.

Pochettino made just two changes to the final starting XI selected by Tuchel for the 4-0 win over Strasbourg before the winter break, with Moise Kean and Idrissa Gueye returning in place of Rafinha and Timothee Pembele.

PSG started well going forwards but looked vulnerable at the back and were made to pay in the 19th minute as Gueye carelessly lost possession on the edge of his own area.

Denis Bouanga had plenty of time to pick out Romain Hamouma, who tapped into the net.

But the visitors wasted little time in equalising as Kean repaid Pochettino's faith to score the first goal of the Argentinian's era, spinning and firing home after Marco Verratti's pass.

The Italian striker has now scored 10 goals for PSG since joining on loan from Everton in the close season.

But Les Verts, bidding to extend their unbeaten run to seven matches, continued to find gaping holes in the away defence and Keylor Navas had to make a smart, diving save to keep out Mathieu Debuchy's volley.

Paris dominated possession early in the second period, but Saint-Etienne had the better chances, with Bouanga denied by Navas and Hamouma having a penalty appeal turned down.

PSG started to pile on the pressure in the final 15 minutes, with Angel Di Maria forcing home goalkeeper Jessy Moulin into a smart low stop after Kylian Mbappe's clever dummy.

Substitute Pablo Sarabia wasted a golden late chance in injury time, blazing over with just Moulin to beat.

<h2>- Depay fires Lyon further clear -</h2>

At Groupama Stadium, Lyon raced into a three-goal lead over Lens through Depay's brace and a Steven Fortes own goal.

Rudi Garcia's OL, who led the top flight at Christmas for the first time since 2008, held on for a vital three points despite Florian Sotoca and Cheick Oumar Doucoure hitting back for Lens.

Lille, who were level on points with Lyon heading into the day, dropped to third as Romain Thomas scored twice in the first 10 minutes for Angers at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy.

Burak Yilmaz pulled one back before the interval but the away side held on.

Marseille boosted their title hopes, though, as Dimitri Payet's 80th-minute strike helped secure a 3-1 home success against Montpellier.

Andre-Villas Boas' men are fifth, but only eight points behind Lyon with two games in hand.

Earlier on Wednesday, former France coach Raymond Domenech's reign at 17th-placed Nantes started with a drab goalless draw against fourth-placed Rennes.

"We have laid the first stone," said Domenech, who led France to the 2006 World Cup final.

"Now we must continue to improve."

Monaco moved into fifth with a 5-2 victory at 10-man Lorient, with Aleksandr Golovin and Kevin Volland among the scorers.

Mauricio Pochettino's first match as Paris Saint-Germain coach ended in a 1-1 draw at Saint-Etienne on Wednesday as his new team slipped three points behind Ligue 1 leaders Lyon.

Mauricio Pochettino's first match as Paris Saint-Germain coach ended in a 1-1 draw at Saint-Etienne on Wednesday as his new team slipped three points behind Ligue 1 leaders Lyon. The defending league champions fell behind early on to Romain Hamouma's strike before Moise Kean levelled soon after, but laboured in the second half and failed to find a winner. "Of course I'm disappointed because we're PSG, we want to win," Pochettino told Telefoot. "I'm happy with the effort made by the players, by their attitude." The former Tottenham boss was only confirmed as Thomas Tuchel's successor on Saturday, four days after the German's sacking was officially announced. But the scale of the task facing the former PSG defender was laid out in front of him at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard as the capital-city giants' title defence suffered another blow. "This is just the beginning," added the 48-year-old Pochettino. "We have to get to know each other. It was difficult because the preparation was too short. "It's positive but there are things to improve." Lyon survived a late Lens comeback to extend their lead with a 3-2 win, with Memphis Depay's double proving crucial. PSG did move into second, above Lille on goal difference, after Christophe Galtier's team slipped to a surprise 2-1 home loss to Angers. Pochettino made just two changes to the final starting XI selected by Tuchel for the 4-0 win over Strasbourg before the winter break, with Moise Kean and Idrissa Gueye returning in place of Rafinha and Timothee Pembele. PSG started well going forwards but looked vulnerable at the back and were made to pay in the 19th minute as Gueye carelessly lost possession on the edge of his own area. Denis Bouanga had plenty of time to pick out Romain Hamouma, who tapped into the net. But the visitors wasted little time in equalising as Kean repaid Pochettino's faith to score the first goal of the Argentinian's era, spinning and firing home after Marco Verratti's pass. The Italian striker has now scored 10 goals for PSG since joining on loan from Everton in the close season. But Les Verts, bidding to extend their unbeaten run to seven matches, continued to find gaping holes in the away defence and Keylor Navas had to make a smart, diving save to keep out Mathieu Debuchy's volley. Paris dominated possession early in the second period, but Saint-Etienne had the better chances, with Bouanga denied by Navas and Hamouma having a penalty appeal turned down. PSG started to pile on the pressure in the final 15 minutes, with Angel Di Maria forcing home goalkeeper Jessy Moulin into a smart low stop after Kylian Mbappe's clever dummy. Substitute Pablo Sarabia wasted a golden late chance in injury time, blazing over with just Moulin to beat. - Depay fires Lyon further clear - At Groupama Stadium, Lyon raced into a three-goal lead over Lens through Depay's brace and a Steven Fortes own goal. Rudi Garcia's OL, who led the top flight at Christmas for the first time since 2008, held on for a vital three points despite Florian Sotoca and Cheick Oumar Doucoure hitting back for Lens. Lille, who were level on points with Lyon heading into the day, dropped to third as Romain Thomas scored twice in the first 10 minutes for Angers at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy. Burak Yilmaz pulled one back before the interval but the away side held on. Marseille boosted their title hopes, though, as Dimitri Payet's 80th-minute strike helped secure a 3-1 home success against Montpellier. Andre-Villas Boas' men are fifth, but only eight points behind Lyon with two games in hand. Earlier on Wednesday, former France coach Raymond Domenech's reign at 17th-placed Nantes started with a drab goalless draw against fourth-placed Rennes. "We have laid the first stone," said Domenech, who led France to the 2006 World Cup final. "Now we must continue to improve." Monaco moved into fifth with a 5-2 victory at 10-man Lorient, with Aleksandr Golovin and Kevin Volland among the scorers.

PSG held in 'disappointed' Pochettino's first match, Lyon extend lead

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos is free to negotiate with other clubs after stalling contract talks with the Los Merengues. Ramos, who is out of contract in summer, can negotiate terms and contracts with other clubs and leave the Spanish giants for free after the expiry of his contract.&nbsp;

Paris Saint-Germain, who recently appointed Mauricio Pochettino as head coach, is looking to sign the Spanish international with reports stating that PSG are eyeing a scoop by signing Ramos along with Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi - both on free transfers.

After letting go&nbsp;Thiago Silva, PSG are in need of an experienced defender and Ramos would fit the bill perfectly. However, the biggest surprise is that Ramos, during contract negotiations with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, said that PSG are trying to sign him with Messi.&nbsp;

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Spanish publication El Chiringuito TV reported that Ramos has told Real Madrid president Florentino Perez: "At PSG they have told me that they will make a team with me and with Messi."

Messi is also available on a free transfer in summer and the Argentine has already said he will think about his future after the season ends.

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Both Messi and Ramos, despite being free transfers, will demand monumental wages - which could be a worry for the French giants with COVID-19 pandemic inflicting major financial damages to every club in the world.

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos is free to negotiate with other clubs after stalling contract talks with the Los Merengues. Ramos, who is out of contract in summer, can negotiate terms and contracts with other clubs and leave the Spanish giants for free after the expiry of his contract.

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos is free to negotiate with other clubs after stalling contract talks with the Los Merengues. Ramos, who is out of contract in summer, can negotiate terms and contracts with other clubs and leave the Spanish giants for free after the expiry of his contract. Paris Saint-Germain, who recently appointed Mauricio Pochettino as head coach, is looking to sign the Spanish international with reports stating that PSG are eyeing a scoop by signing Ramos along with Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi - both on free transfers. After letting go Thiago Silva, PSG are in need of an experienced defender and Ramos would fit the bill perfectly. However, the biggest surprise is that Ramos, during contract negotiations with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, said that PSG are trying to sign him with Messi. ALSO READ: Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool Spanish publication El Chiringuito TV reported that Ramos has told Real Madrid president Florentino Perez: "At PSG they have told me that they will make a team with me and with Messi." Messi is also available on a free transfer in summer and the Argentine has already said he will think about his future after the season ends. ALSO READ: Premier League to continue during new English lockdown Both Messi and Ramos, despite being free transfers, will demand monumental wages - which could be a worry for the French giants with COVID-19 pandemic inflicting major financial damages to every club in the world.

Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos to join PSG? Real Madrid star makes stunning revelation

French giants Paris Saint-Germain have officially appointed Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach on Saturday. The Argentine immediately vowed to "to win with style". &nbsp;

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The French club took to their website announced the news and said that Pochettino had signed a contract until June 30, 2022, with an option for an additional year.

"PSG are one of the biggest clubs in the world," the 48-year-old told the club's TV channel. "So it's not only important to win but to win with style." However, he added: "Discipline is important, respect, friendship between the players but also all the staff."

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Pochettino has played for the club from 2001 to 2003 and said: "This club has always held a special place in my heart. I have wonderful memories, especially of the unique atmosphere of the Parc des Princes."

"I return to the club today with a lot of ambition and humility, and am eager to work with some of the world's most talented players," Pochettino said, adding he would do his utmost "to give our team the combative and attacking playing identity that Parisian fans have always loved."

French club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday officially confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018.

"After an in-depth analysis of its sporting situation, Paris Saint-Germain decided to terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract," the French giants announced in a statement.

French giants Paris Saint-Germain have officially appointed Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach on Saturday. The Argentine immediately vowed to "to win with style".

French giants Paris Saint-Germain have officially appointed Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach on Saturday. The Argentine immediately vowed to "to win with style". Also read: Spurs star Son Heung-min scores 100 goals for the club The French club took to their website announced the news and said that Pochettino had signed a contract until June 30, 2022, with an option for an additional year. "PSG are one of the biggest clubs in the world," the 48-year-old told the club's TV channel. "So it's not only important to win but to win with style." However, he added: "Discipline is important, respect, friendship between the players but also all the staff." Also read: Pope recalls meeting Maradona, says ‘he was a poet on field’ Pochettino has played for the club from 2001 to 2003 and said: "This club has always held a special place in my heart. I have wonderful memories, especially of the unique atmosphere of the Parc des Princes." "I return to the club today with a lot of ambition and humility, and am eager to work with some of the world's most talented players," Pochettino said, adding he would do his utmost "to give our team the combative and attacking playing identity that Parisian fans have always loved." French club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday officially confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. "After an in-depth analysis of its sporting situation, Paris Saint-Germain decided to terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract," the French giants announced in a statement.

Mauricio Pochettino appointed as Paris Saint-Germain head coach

An end-of-year party for 150 people attended by Brazilian soccer star Neymar is drawing scrutiny from local prosecutors, but the town where it is being held said on Wednesday it cannot do anything to prevent the bash from taking place.

Brazilian media said the Paris Saint Germain striker was the host of the five-day-long party in Mangaratiba, a beachside town around 105 km (65 miles) from Rio de Janeiro but his public relations team was quoted by one newspaper as saying he was only a guest.

Newspapers on Wednesday said guests had started arriving at the luxury condominium where the player owns property.

Reports said he had bought a disused hangar for the event and required all guests to give up their cell phones to prevent photos and videos leaking online.

The 28-year old has received widespread condemnation for the event, many of them Brazilian celebrities.

However, the mayor’s office in Mangaratiba said it cannot legislate private parties, adding “in the middle of a pandemic it is a question of each citizen’s responsibility and good sense” whether to host parties or attend big gatherings.

The pandemic has killed more than 192,000 people in Brazil, a higher death toll than in any other country bar the United States. On Tuesday alone, 1,111 people were reported to have died from COVID-19, the Health Ministry said.

The city of Rio de Janeiro, where millions of people gather each year on Copacabana beach to watch the world famous firework display every New Year's Eve, has cancelled this year’s event.

And state prosecutors said they were “analyzing” what measures to take over the party if any.

Neymar did not immediately respond to requests for comment but the Estado de Sao Paulo newspaper said his PR team described him as merely a guest at the event, not the host.

An end-of-year party for 150 people attended by Brazilian soccer star Neymar is drawing scrutiny from local prosecutors, but the town where it is being held said on Wednesday it cannot do anything to prevent the bash from taking place.

An end-of-year party for 150 people attended by Brazilian soccer star Neymar is drawing scrutiny from local prosecutors, but the town where it is being held said on Wednesday it cannot do anything to prevent the bash from taking place. Brazilian media said the Paris Saint Germain striker was the host of the five-day-long party in Mangaratiba, a beachside town around 105 km (65 miles) from Rio de Janeiro but his public relations team was quoted by one newspaper as saying he was only a guest. Newspapers on Wednesday said guests had started arriving at the luxury condominium where the player owns property. Reports said he had bought a disused hangar for the event and required all guests to give up their cell phones to prevent photos and videos leaking online. The 28-year old has received widespread condemnation for the event, many of them Brazilian celebrities. However, the mayor’s office in Mangaratiba said it cannot legislate private parties, adding “in the middle of a pandemic it is a question of each citizen’s responsibility and good sense” whether to host parties or attend big gatherings. The pandemic has killed more than 192,000 people in Brazil, a higher death toll than in any other country bar the United States. On Tuesday alone, 1,111 people were reported to have died from COVID-19, the Health Ministry said. The city of Rio de Janeiro, where millions of people gather each year on Copacabana beach to watch the world famous firework display every New Year's Eve, has cancelled this year’s event. And state prosecutors said they were “analyzing” what measures to take over the party if any. Neymar did not immediately respond to requests for comment but the Estado de Sao Paulo newspaper said his PR team described him as merely a guest at the event, not the host.

Authorities say they're powerless to halt Neymar party

French club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday officially confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. However, PSG didn’t comment on who will be replacing Tuchel at Parc des Princes.

"After an in-depth analysis of its sporting situation, Paris Saint-Germain decided to terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract," the French giants announced in a statement.

Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino is a heavy favourite to take over the charge as the next PSG coach.

Tuchel, whose sacking at PSG was widely reported last week but has been officially confirmed on Tuesday, managed PSG in 127 matches (all competitions) with 95 wins, 12 draws and 20 defeats.

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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pochettino-to-allegri-managers-that-could-replace-tuchel-in-psg-352117" hreflang="en">From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG</a>

Tuchel’s trophy cabinet at PSG featured two Ligue 1 titles as well as the French Cup and French League Cup in 2020. The former Borussia Dortmund manager also guided PSG to their first-ever UEFA Champions League final in August 2019, where PSG were strolled to defeat by ultimate winners Bayern Munich 1-0.

Despite managing the superstar-filled PSG squad including the likes of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe among others, Tuchel had reportedly upset the Qatari-backed club after complaining about lack of recognition following PSG’s first-ever Champions League final appearance.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-in-new-controversy-over-new-year-party-rumors-353095" hreflang="en">Neymar in new controversy over New Year party rumors</a>

"I would like to thank Thomas Tuchel and his staff for all they have contributed to the club," said PSG chairman Nasser al-Khelaifi.

"Thomas has put a lot of energy and passion into the job, and we will of course remember the good moments we shared together. I wish him all the best for the future."

PSG is likely to name their next manager soon with Pochettino likely to take over the charge at Parc des Princes. 
&nbsp;

French club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday officially confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. However, PSG didn’t comment on who will be replacing Tuchel at Parc des Princes.

French club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday officially confirmed the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, who was with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2018. However, PSG didn’t comment on who will be replacing Tuchel at Parc des Princes. "After an in-depth analysis of its sporting situation, Paris Saint-Germain decided to terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract," the French giants announced in a statement. Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino is a heavy favourite to take over the charge as the next PSG coach. Tuchel, whose sacking at PSG was widely reported last week but has been officially confirmed on Tuesday, managed PSG in 127 matches (all competitions) with 95 wins, 12 draws and 20 defeats. Club Statement https://t.co/RQHs4iwNKR — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) December 29, 2020 × ALSO READ: From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG Tuchel’s trophy cabinet at PSG featured two Ligue 1 titles as well as the French Cup and French League Cup in 2020. The former Borussia Dortmund manager also guided PSG to their first-ever UEFA Champions League final in August 2019, where PSG were strolled to defeat by ultimate winners Bayern Munich 1-0. Despite managing the superstar-filled PSG squad including the likes of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe among others, Tuchel had reportedly upset the Qatari-backed club after complaining about lack of recognition following PSG’s first-ever Champions League final appearance. ALSO READ: Neymar in new controversy over New Year party rumors "I would like to thank Thomas Tuchel and his staff for all they have contributed to the club," said PSG chairman Nasser al-Khelaifi. "Thomas has put a lot of energy and passion into the job, and we will of course remember the good moments we shared together. I wish him all the best for the future." PSG is likely to name their next manager soon with Pochettino likely to take over the charge at Parc des Princes.

PSG officially terminate Thomas Tuchel's contract

Paris Saint Germain star Kylian Mbappe thanked former head coach Thomas Tuchel after media reports said that the German coach had been sacked by French Ligue 1 club.&nbsp;

ALSO SEE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pochettino-to-allegri-managers-that-could-replace-tuchel-in-psg-352117" hreflang="en">From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG</a>

"It is sadly the law of football. Nobody will forget your time here. You wrote a wonderful part of the club's history and I say to you: 'thank you, coach'," Mbappe said in an Instagram post on Thursday that was accompanied by a picture of him with Tuchel.

French giants Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday sacked manager Thomas Tuchel. The former Borussia Dortmund boss was under immense pressure with PSG sitting third in the Ligue 1 points table, behind Lyon and Lille, after a topsy-turvy start to the 2020-21 season.

Tuchel was appointed head coach of PSG in 2018 with the priority of lifting the club’s maiden UEFA Champions League trophy. The 47-year-old was backed by the PSG hierarchy and Tuchel even came close to delivering the UCL trophy in 2019 but lost in the final, to Bayern Munich 1-0.&nbsp;

Pochettino, who played for PSG as a defender in the early 2000s, has been out of a job since being dismissed by Spurs in November 2019. He guided the London side to the Champions League final in the 2018-19 season.

"Pochettino is being lined up by @PSG_English. A terrific coach whose only minus is the lack of winning trophies... Well, that's about to change," former England and Spurs striker Gary Lineker tweeted.

Former Argentina international Juan Pablo Sorin said: "Pochettino to @PSG_inside? Hopefully."

Paris Saint Germain star Kylian Mbappe thanked former head coach Thomas Tuchel after media reports said that the German coach had been sacked by French Ligue 1 club.

Paris Saint Germain star Kylian Mbappe thanked former head coach Thomas Tuchel after media reports said that the German coach had been sacked by French Ligue 1 club. ALSO SEE: From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG "It is sadly the law of football. Nobody will forget your time here. You wrote a wonderful part of the club's history and I say to you: 'thank you, coach'," Mbappe said in an Instagram post on Thursday that was accompanied by a picture of him with Tuchel. French giants Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday sacked manager Thomas Tuchel. The former Borussia Dortmund boss was under immense pressure with PSG sitting third in the Ligue 1 points table, behind Lyon and Lille, after a topsy-turvy start to the 2020-21 season. Tuchel was appointed head coach of PSG in 2018 with the priority of lifting the club’s maiden UEFA Champions League trophy. The 47-year-old was backed by the PSG hierarchy and Tuchel even came close to delivering the UCL trophy in 2019 but lost in the final, to Bayern Munich 1-0. Pochettino, who played for PSG as a defender in the early 2000s, has been out of a job since being dismissed by Spurs in November 2019. He guided the London side to the Champions League final in the 2018-19 season. "Pochettino is being lined up by @PSG_English. A terrific coach whose only minus is the lack of winning trophies... Well, that's about to change," former England and Spurs striker Gary Lineker tweeted. Former Argentina international Juan Pablo Sorin said: "Pochettino to @PSG_inside? Hopefully."

'Thank you, coach': Paris St Germain Kylian Mbappe thanks former coach Tuchel

From Pochettino to Allegri: Managers that could replace Tuchel in PSG

French giants Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday sacked manager Thomas Tuchel. The former Borussia Dortmund boss was under immense pressure with PSG sitting third in the Ligue 1 points table, behind Lyon and Lille, after a topsy-turvy start to the 2020-21 season.

Tuchel was appointed head coach of PSG in 2018 with the priority of lifting the club’s maiden UEFA Champions League trophy. The 47-year-old was backed by the PSG hierarchy and Tuchel even came close to delivering the UCL trophy in 2019 but lost in the final, to Bayern Munich 1-0.&nbsp;

PSG’s defeat in the UCL final against Bayern Munich, added with poor Ligue 1 form, has aided in Tuchel’s sacking as head coach of PSG.

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Tuchel was informed about the development in Paris after guiding PSG to a 4-0 win over Strasbourg last night.&nbsp;

With the likes of Mauricio Pochettino and Massimiliano Allegri available, PSG went ahead and sacked Tuchel.

Both Allegri and Pochettino are favourites to replace Tuchel at Parc des Princes. While Allegri stepped down from Juventus in 2018 after winning five Serie A trophies in a row, Pochettino has been out of work since being removed from his role at Tottenham Hotspur.&nbsp;

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It would be interesting to see what the future lies for Tuchel, who is relatively a young manager and has done well for both his previous clubs Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain.&nbsp;

French giants Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday sacked manager Thomas Tuchel. The former Borussia Dortmund boss was under immense pressure with PSG sitting third in the Ligue 1 points table, behind Lyon and Lille, after a topsy-turvy start to the 2020-21 season.

French giants Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday sacked manager Thomas Tuchel. The former Borussia Dortmund boss was under immense pressure with PSG sitting third in the Ligue 1 points table, behind Lyon and Lille, after a topsy-turvy start to the 2020-21 season. Tuchel was appointed head coach of PSG in 2018 with the priority of lifting the club’s maiden UEFA Champions League trophy. The 47-year-old was backed by the PSG hierarchy and Tuchel even came close to delivering the UCL trophy in 2019 but lost in the final, to Bayern Munich 1-0. PSG’s defeat in the UCL final against Bayern Munich, added with poor Ligue 1 form, has aided in Tuchel’s sacking as head coach of PSG. ALSO READ: Manchester rivals to clash in League Cup semis Tuchel was informed about the development in Paris after guiding PSG to a 4-0 win over Strasbourg last night. With the likes of Mauricio Pochettino and Massimiliano Allegri available, PSG went ahead and sacked Tuchel. Both Allegri and Pochettino are favourites to replace Tuchel at Parc des Princes. While Allegri stepped down from Juventus in 2018 after winning five Serie A trophies in a row, Pochettino has been out of work since being removed from his role at Tottenham Hotspur. ALSO READ: Argentina star Diego Maradona's autopsy shows no drink or illegal drugs It would be interesting to see what the future lies for Tuchel, who is relatively a young manager and has done well for both his previous clubs Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain.

Paris Saint-Germain sack Thomas Tuchel; Pochettino, Allegri favourites to take charge

Former Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand feels that football is at a "tipping point" after Istanbul Basaksehir and Paris St Germain players walked off the pitch on Tuesday amid accusations a match official used a racist term. Ferdinand said that all those in power should make a stand.&nbsp;

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The UEFA Champions League witnessed an unprecedented incident as players from Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir walked off the pitch amid allegations of racism by fourth officials on Tuesday.

The entire row erupted after Istanbul Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo – a former Cameroon international – was shown a red card during a fierce face-off on the touchline with staff from the Turkish club appearing to accuse the officials of using a racist term.

This incident comes after fans at Millwall's English Championship match against Derby County booed the players when they took a knee in support of the 'Black Lives Matter' movement on Saturday.

"We're at a disturbing tipping point," former England international Ferdinand told BT Sport. "We've got Millwall, the PSG game today, all in the same week. Not a week goes by at the moment without an incident involving race.

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"We're at the point now where something needs to be done, we're saying it all of the time, but the powers that be within this game need to make a huge stand."

While many footballing stars across the world chipped in with their support on social media platforms, Turkish President Recent Tayyip Erdogan said he “strongly” condemned the incident. UEFA announced that it would open a ‘thorough investigation’ on the incident.

Even Paris Saint-Germain stars Kylian Mbappe and Neymar were seen having a chat with the match officials as the duo looked stunned by the usage of words by the fourth referee.&nbsp;

UEFA has been working strongly to kill racial discrimination from the sport and has strict sanctions against those found guilty of discrimination. “Say No To Racism” has been a go-to slogan in UEFA competitions for many years now.&nbsp;

Former Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand feels that football is at a "tipping point" after Istanbul Basaksehir and Paris St Germain players walked off the pitch on Tuesday amid accusations a match official used a racist term.

Former Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand feels that football is at a "tipping point" after Istanbul Basaksehir and Paris St Germain players walked off the pitch on Tuesday amid accusations a match official used a racist term. Ferdinand said that all those in power should make a stand. Also read: PSG, Basaksehir stage Champions League walk-out over official's alleged racism The UEFA Champions League witnessed an unprecedented incident as players from Paris Saint-Germain and Istanbul Basaksehir walked off the pitch amid allegations of racism by fourth officials on Tuesday. The entire row erupted after Istanbul Basaksehir assistant coach Pierre Webo – a former Cameroon international – was shown a red card during a fierce face-off on the touchline with staff from the Turkish club appearing to accuse the officials of using a racist term. This incident comes after fans at Millwall's English Championship match against Derby County booed the players when they took a knee in support of the 'Black Lives Matter' movement on Saturday. "We're at a disturbing tipping point," former England international Ferdinand told BT Sport. "We've got Millwall, the PSG game today, all in the same week. Not a week goes by at the moment without an incident involving race. Also read: Man Utd stumble out of Champions League with loss in Leipzig "We're at the point now where something needs to be done, we're saying it all of the time, but the powers that be within this game need to make a huge stand." While many footballing stars across the world chipped in with their support on social media platforms, Turkish President Recent Tayyip Erdogan said he “strongly” condemned the incident. UEFA announced that it would open a ‘thorough investigation’ on the incident. Even Paris Saint-Germain stars Kylian Mbappe and Neymar were seen having a chat with the match officials as the duo looked stunned by the usage of words by the fourth referee. UEFA has been working strongly to kill racial discrimination from the sport and has strict sanctions against those found guilty of discrimination. “Say No To Racism” has been a go-to slogan in UEFA competitions for many years now.

'Football at tipping point', says Rio Ferdinand after Basaksehir, PSG players walk off

Edinson Cavani showed why Manchester United handed the veteran Uruguayan the bumper two-year contract others balked at as he turned defeat into victory at Southampton on Sunday.

The 33-year-old came off the bench with United trailing 2-0 to score twice and set up Bruno Fernandes for the other goal in a thrilling come-from-behind win reminiscent of the club's glory days under Alex Ferguson.

Cavani's joy at making his first major contribution for United has been tempered by the prospect of a domestic ban for a misjudged social media post after the game.

He used the Spanish term "negrito" (small black person) in thanking a friend for his congratulations, but despite the affectionate context, Cavani could still fall foul of the Football Association's minimum three-match ban for offensive comments on social media.

Cavani will though be available for a reunion against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on Wednesday and could exact revenge for being cast aside by the French champions.

PSG's all-time record goalscorer was allowed to leave on a free transfer when his contract expired in June and did not even hang around as the Parisians reached the Champions League final for the first time in August.

Instead, Cavani kept himself fit working on a farm in his homeland and indulging his passion for ballet before United came calling in the final days of the transfer window in October with a deal worth a reported&nbsp;£210,000 per week ($271,000).

<h2>- Focal point -</h2>

After seven months out in the cold, Cavani understandably took time to make his mark in Manchester, but his impact against Southampton showed the different dimension his predatory instincts in the box offer Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men.

"Sometimes, when we've scored goals, it had to be the 'perfect' goal, walking it in, with an extra pass and great skill," said Solskjaer.

"Edinson has been around the block and scored so many goals and played football for so long. He's been between those posts so many times, he's seen this game before, he's scored that goal before.

"To have a focal point in the box is important for us, we've not really had that since Romelu (Lukaku) left. Anthony (Martial), Marcus (Rashford), Mason (Greenwood), they're different types of forwards. He gives us a great balance and a mix. We wanted to mix it up and Edinson had a great impact."

Cavani has made just one start under Solskjaer, in a 4-1 thrashing of Istanbul Basaksehir last week, but may have done enough to move ahead of Martial and Greenwood in the pecking order to start on Wednesday.

Victory over Basaksehir restored United's grip on Group H after a shock defeat in Istanbul undid some of their good work, having beaten PSG away and RB Leipzig 5-0 in a brilliant start to the section.

PSG sit three points behind Solskjaer's men and face a humiliating group-stage exit should they lose again to United.

Dispatching Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Mauro Icardi, who took his place at the Parc des Princes, from the competition PSG desire most, would be poetic justice for Cavani after the manner of his exit from the club.

Cavani's parents complained PSG had not shown him the respect he deserved when his playing time under Thomas Tuchel diminished drastically after the signing of Icardi last summer.

Tuchel has held on amid growing discontent over PSG's performances at home and abroad so far this season.

Dropping out of the Champions League would almost certainly signal the end of Tuchel's time in Paris. Should Cavani inflict the final blow, it would only rub salt in the wound.

Edinson Cavani showed why Manchester United handed the veteran Uruguayan the bumper two-year contract others balked at as he turned defeat into victory at Southampton on Sunday.

Edinson Cavani showed why Manchester United handed the veteran Uruguayan the bumper two-year contract others balked at as he turned defeat into victory at Southampton on Sunday. The 33-year-old came off the bench with United trailing 2-0 to score twice and set up Bruno Fernandes for the other goal in a thrilling come-from-behind win reminiscent of the club's glory days under Alex Ferguson. Cavani's joy at making his first major contribution for United has been tempered by the prospect of a domestic ban for a misjudged social media post after the game. He used the Spanish term "negrito" (small black person) in thanking a friend for his congratulations, but despite the affectionate context, Cavani could still fall foul of the Football Association's minimum three-match ban for offensive comments on social media. Cavani will though be available for a reunion against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on Wednesday and could exact revenge for being cast aside by the French champions. PSG's all-time record goalscorer was allowed to leave on a free transfer when his contract expired in June and did not even hang around as the Parisians reached the Champions League final for the first time in August. Instead, Cavani kept himself fit working on a farm in his homeland and indulging his passion for ballet before United came calling in the final days of the transfer window in October with a deal worth a reported £210,000 per week ($271,000). - Focal point - After seven months out in the cold, Cavani understandably took time to make his mark in Manchester, but his impact against Southampton showed the different dimension his predatory instincts in the box offer Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men. "Sometimes, when we've scored goals, it had to be the 'perfect' goal, walking it in, with an extra pass and great skill," said Solskjaer. "Edinson has been around the block and scored so many goals and played football for so long. He's been between those posts so many times, he's seen this game before, he's scored that goal before. "To have a focal point in the box is important for us, we've not really had that since Romelu (Lukaku) left. Anthony (Martial), Marcus (Rashford), Mason (Greenwood), they're different types of forwards. He gives us a great balance and a mix. We wanted to mix it up and Edinson had a great impact." Cavani has made just one start under Solskjaer, in a 4-1 thrashing of Istanbul Basaksehir last week, but may have done enough to move ahead of Martial and Greenwood in the pecking order to start on Wednesday. Victory over Basaksehir restored United's grip on Group H after a shock defeat in Istanbul undid some of their good work, having beaten PSG away and RB Leipzig 5-0 in a brilliant start to the section. PSG sit three points behind Solskjaer's men and face a humiliating group-stage exit should they lose again to United. Dispatching Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Mauro Icardi, who took his place at the Parc des Princes, from the competition PSG desire most, would be poetic justice for Cavani after the manner of his exit from the club. Cavani's parents complained PSG had not shown him the respect he deserved when his playing time under Thomas Tuchel diminished drastically after the signing of Icardi last summer. Tuchel has held on amid growing discontent over PSG's performances at home and abroad so far this season. Dropping out of the Champions League would almost certainly signal the end of Tuchel's time in Paris. Should Cavani inflict the final blow, it would only rub salt in the wound.

Cavani proves his worth to Man Utd in time for PSG reunion

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