Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro insisted they won`t fall into the trap of believing their Champions League quarter-final against Chelsea is already wrapped up after they dominated to win 3-1 at Stamford Bridge in the first leg.

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel was very critical of his team after last week`s defeat and said it "would be impossible" to recover from the setback - words that did not go unnoticed in Real`s dressing room.

"We won`t fall for that," Casemiro told a news conference on Monday. "We played probably what was the best 90 minutes of our season in London last week and took a major step closer to qualifying for the semi-final but we can’t get overly confident.

"We all heard what Thomas Tuchel said. We don`t buy it. We know that it will be a tough game. They are defending champions and we won’t take this game lightly, I can assure you of that."

Casemiro warned Real`s supporters not to lose their focus and called on them to pack the Santiago Bernabeu stadium and help their team finish what they started in London.

"We’ll need our fans to be there and support us from the beginning," Casemiro said. "We can`t get overconfident and need our fans to create a great atmosphere so we can advance to the semi-finals."

Coach Carlo Ancelotti agreed with Casemiro that they will not fall for Tuchel putting all the pressure on Real Madrid.

"Chelsea will come here to rescue the tie, I have no doubt about it," the Italian told a news conference when asked if Tuchel was playing mind games against his side.

"He can say whatever he wants but I`m sure Chelsea will come here to win, that’s the spirit of football, the spirit of big clubs and great players, to never give up.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/inter-milan-beat-verona-2-0-to-move-closer-to-top-as-ac-milan-napoli-falter-in-serie-a-title-race-470212">Inter Milan beat Verona 2-0 to move closer to top as AC Milan, Napoli falter in Serie A title race</a>

"I`m lucky to have a group of players that know these types of games really well, that anything can happen. They are in a good spirit and happy with the opportunity to reach a Champions League semi-final. But Chelsea are a very strong rival. We have to have a lot of respect and we`re going to have it".

Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro insisted they won`t fall into the trap of believing their Champions League quarter-final against Chelsea is already wrapped up after they dominated to win 3-1 at Stamford Bridge in the first leg.

Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro insisted they won`t fall into the trap of believing their Champions League quarter-final against Chelsea is already wrapped up after they dominated to win 3-1 at Stamford Bridge in the first leg. Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel was very critical of his team after last week`s defeat and said it "would be impossible" to recover from the setback - words that did not go unnoticed in Real`s dressing room. "We won`t fall for that," Casemiro told a news conference on Monday. "We played probably what was the best 90 minutes of our season in London last week and took a major step closer to qualifying for the semi-final but we can’t get overly confident. "We all heard what Thomas Tuchel said. We don`t buy it. We know that it will be a tough game. They are defending champions and we won’t take this game lightly, I can assure you of that." Casemiro warned Real`s supporters not to lose their focus and called on them to pack the Santiago Bernabeu stadium and help their team finish what they started in London. "We’ll need our fans to be there and support us from the beginning," Casemiro said. "We can`t get overconfident and need our fans to create a great atmosphere so we can advance to the semi-finals." Coach Carlo Ancelotti agreed with Casemiro that they will not fall for Tuchel putting all the pressure on Real Madrid. "Chelsea will come here to rescue the tie, I have no doubt about it," the Italian told a news conference when asked if Tuchel was playing mind games against his side. "He can say whatever he wants but I`m sure Chelsea will come here to win, that’s the spirit of football, the spirit of big clubs and great players, to never give up. Also Read: Inter Milan beat Verona 2-0 to move closer to top as AC Milan, Napoli falter in Serie A title race "I`m lucky to have a group of players that know these types of games really well, that anything can happen. They are in a good spirit and happy with the opportunity to reach a Champions League semi-final. But Chelsea are a very strong rival. We have to have a lot of respect and we`re going to have it".

Real Madrid won't take Chelsea lightly, says Casemiro ahead of Champions League clash

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored twice as a rejuvenated Barcelona gave a football masterclass to inflict a humiliating 4-0 defeat on rivals Real Madrid on Sunday, thrashing Carlo Ancelotti’s LaLiga leaders on their own ground.

A sold-out Santiago Bernabeu stadium watched silently as a much-improved Barca under the command of new coach Xavi Hernandez dominated `El Clasico` from the start.

With Ousmane Dembele and Ferran Torres exposing Real`s defensive frailty on the flanks, Barca opened the scoring in the 29th minute with an Aubameyang header from a Dembele cross.

Barca kept up the tempo against a disorganised and lifeless Real Madrid and extended their lead when defender Ronald Araujo headed in from a Dembele corner.

Ancelotti tried to change the dynamic, making two substitutions during the break but Barca scored in the first minute of the second half with an angled shot from Torres after a backheel by Aubameyang.

Five minutes later, former Manchester City forward Torres returned the favour, teeing up ex-Arsenal striker Aubameyang for his second goal.

Barca had several opportunities to extend their lead, but Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois avoided any further humiliation.

With Real Madrid sitting comfortably on top of the standings with 66 points, Sunday’s Clasico was never likely to determine the fate of LaLiga’s title race.

But pride was on the line and Xavi`s much improved Barca showed that their recent return to form was genuine. 
After their fifth consecutive league win, Barca are third in the standings on 54 points with a game in hand, three points behind second-placed Sevilla.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-beckham-hands-over-his-instagram-account-with-715million-followers-to-ukrainian-doctor-watch-his-plea-464196">Beckham hands over his Instagram account with 71.5 million followers to Ukrainian doctor, watch his plea</a>

Having fallen as low as ninth in the table when Ronald Koeman was sacked in October, Barca have been revitalised under Xavi.

They are unbeaten since an extra-time defeat by Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey on Jan. 20 and have scored 24 goals in their last seven league games.

"We didn`t expect this result, but our objetive was achieved. We came to win and show what we are worth," Barca`s Sergio Busquets told reporters.

"If we still have a small chance to make a run for the title, we will fight until the end. It`s very difficult but in football anything can happen. We are Barca."

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored twice as a rejuvenated Barcelona gave a football masterclass to inflict a humiliating 4-0 defeat on rivals Real Madrid on Sunday, thrashing Carlo Ancelotti’s LaLiga leaders on their own ground.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored twice as a rejuvenated Barcelona gave a football masterclass to inflict a humiliating 4-0 defeat on rivals Real Madrid on Sunday, thrashing Carlo Ancelotti’s LaLiga leaders on their own ground. A sold-out Santiago Bernabeu stadium watched silently as a much-improved Barca under the command of new coach Xavi Hernandez dominated `El Clasico` from the start. With Ousmane Dembele and Ferran Torres exposing Real`s defensive frailty on the flanks, Barca opened the scoring in the 29th minute with an Aubameyang header from a Dembele cross. Barca kept up the tempo against a disorganised and lifeless Real Madrid and extended their lead when defender Ronald Araujo headed in from a Dembele corner. Ancelotti tried to change the dynamic, making two substitutions during the break but Barca scored in the first minute of the second half with an angled shot from Torres after a backheel by Aubameyang. Five minutes later, former Manchester City forward Torres returned the favour, teeing up ex-Arsenal striker Aubameyang for his second goal. Barca had several opportunities to extend their lead, but Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois avoided any further humiliation. With Real Madrid sitting comfortably on top of the standings with 66 points, Sunday’s Clasico was never likely to determine the fate of LaLiga’s title race. But pride was on the line and Xavi`s much improved Barca showed that their recent return to form was genuine. After their fifth consecutive league win, Barca are third in the standings on 54 points with a game in hand, three points behind second-placed Sevilla. Also Read: Beckham hands over his Instagram account with 71.5 million followers to Ukrainian doctor, watch his plea Having fallen as low as ninth in the table when Ronald Koeman was sacked in October, Barca have been revitalised under Xavi. They are unbeaten since an extra-time defeat by Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey on Jan. 20 and have scored 24 goals in their last seven league games. "We didn`t expect this result, but our objetive was achieved. We came to win and show what we are worth," Barca`s Sergio Busquets told reporters. "If we still have a small chance to make a run for the title, we will fight until the end. It`s very difficult but in football anything can happen. We are Barca."

El Clasico: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scores twice as Barcelona hammer Real Madrid 4-0 in La Liga

A couple of blockbuster fixtures are on the cards after the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals draw was conducted on Friday (March 18). The draw took place in Nyon, Switzerland as the fate of the remaining eight teams in the Champions League this year was decided.

Defending champions Chelsea have been drawn against Real Madrid, who have been in brilliant form of late. Real Madrid had upstaged PSG 3-1 in the second leg of their Round of 16 tie to secure a spot in the last eight. Carlo Ancelotti's men will now be up against Thomas Tuchel's Chelsea, who are currently in turmoil after their Russian&nbsp;owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK government amid the Russia-Ukraine war.

Manchester City have been paired up against Atletico Madrid, who will be running high on confidence after beating Manchester United in the Round of 16 to book a spot in the final eight. Liverpool have been handed a comparatively easier draw against Portuguese side Benfica in the quarters.

Bayern Munich, who won the 2019-20 edition of the competition, have been drawn against Spanish side Villarreal. With Robert Lewandowski continuing his purple patch this season, Bayern will once again be fancying the chances of lifting the trophy this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cristiano-ronaldo-to-paul-pogba-superstars-who-can-leave-manchester-united-this-year-462244">From Cristiano Ronaldo to Paul Pogba: Superstars who can leave Manchester United this year</a>

UEFA Champions League quarterfinals draw in full:

Manchester City vs Atletico Madrid

Real Madrid vs Chelsea

Villarreal vs Bayern Munich&nbsp;

Benfica vs Liverpool

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogba-reveals-his-house-was-burgled-amid-childrens-presence-during-man-utds-cl-tie-vs-atletico-463204">Paul Pogba reveals his house was burgled amid children's presence during Man Utd's CL tie vs Atletico</a>

While the English giants - Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City are among the favourites to reach the final, both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich will also be fancying their chances of lifting the trophy once again this season. Both the clubs have enjoyed fabulous seasons in their respective leagues so far.

While&nbsp;Real are currently on top of the La Liga table with 66 points from 28 matches, Bayern Munich are the Bundesliga leaders with 60 points from 26&nbsp;games.&nbsp;

A couple of blockbuster fixtures are on the cards after the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals draw was conducted on Friday (March 18). The draw took place in Nyon, Switzerland as the fate of the remaining eight teams in the Champions League this year was decided.

A couple of blockbuster fixtures are on the cards after the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals draw was conducted on Friday (March 18). The draw took place in Nyon, Switzerland as the fate of the remaining eight teams in the Champions League this year was decided. Defending champions Chelsea have been drawn against Real Madrid, who have been in brilliant form of late. Real Madrid had upstaged PSG 3-1 in the second leg of their Round of 16 tie to secure a spot in the last eight. Carlo Ancelotti's men will now be up against Thomas Tuchel's Chelsea, who are currently in turmoil after their Russian owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK government amid the Russia-Ukraine war. Manchester City have been paired up against Atletico Madrid, who will be running high on confidence after beating Manchester United in the Round of 16 to book a spot in the final eight. Liverpool have been handed a comparatively easier draw against Portuguese side Benfica in the quarters. Bayern Munich, who won the 2019-20 edition of the competition, have been drawn against Spanish side Villarreal. With Robert Lewandowski continuing his purple patch this season, Bayern will once again be fancying the chances of lifting the trophy this year. Also Read: From Cristiano Ronaldo to Paul Pogba: Superstars who can leave Manchester United this year UEFA Champions League quarterfinals draw in full: Manchester City vs Atletico Madrid Real Madrid vs Chelsea Villarreal vs Bayern Munich Benfica vs Liverpool Also Read: Paul Pogba reveals his house was burgled amid children's presence during Man Utd's CL tie vs Atletico While the English giants - Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City are among the favourites to reach the final, both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich will also be fancying their chances of lifting the trophy once again this season. Both the clubs have enjoyed fabulous seasons in their respective leagues so far. While Real are currently on top of the La Liga table with 66 points from 28 matches, Bayern Munich are the Bundesliga leaders with 60 points from 26 games.

UEFA Champions League quarterfinals draw: Chelsea to take on Real Madrid, Manchester City face Atletico

On Friday (March 18), the&nbsp;draw for the 2021/22&nbsp;UEFA Champions League&nbsp;(UCL) Quarter-Final will take place&nbsp;at the UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland. For the unversed, the quarter-final draw is an open draw where there will be no restrictions on which team can draw whom. Hence, even the clubs&nbsp;from the same country have a chance of squaring off with each other; throwing up a possibility of a Madrid-derby or two of Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea locking horns with each other.

In addition, the draw for the semi-final will also be announced on Friday. Before that, here's everything you need to know about the UCL QF Draw -&nbsp;

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogba-reveals-his-house-was-burgled-amid-childrens-presence-during-man-utds-cl-tie-vs-atletico-463204">Paul Pogba reveals his house was burgled amid children's presence during Man Utd's CL tie vs Atletico</a>

Which are the eight teams involved in the draw?
</section>

Defending champions Chelsea will be joined by Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Manchester City, Atletico Madrid, Benfica, and Villareal.&nbsp;

At what time will the UEFA Champions League QF draw take place?

The UEFA Champions League quarters' draw will commence at 4:30 PM IST.

Where can you watch the UEFA Champions League QF draw in India?

The UEFA Champions League QF draw will be telecast on Sony Ten 2 and Ten 2 HD in India.

Where can you live stream the UEFA Champions League QF draw in India?

The UCL QF Draw's live streaming&nbsp;will take place on SonyLiv in the country.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-it-happening-cristiano-ronaldo-to-leave-man-united-and-join-lionel-messi-at-psg-reports-460575">Is it happening? Cristiano Ronaldo to leave Manchester United and join Lionel Messi at PSG - Reports</a>

In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the UCL&nbsp;final has been moved from Gazprom Arena, in Russia, and will now take place&nbsp;at the Stade de France in Paris on May 28. The race for the final is getting intense with each passing week and, thus, one expects some mouth-watering contests and more twists and turns as we progress to the UCL knockouts.

Which two teams will make the final and who will be the side to walk away with the coveted title? Only time will tell...

On Friday (March 18), the draw for the 2021/22 UEFA Champions League (UCL) Quarter-Final will take place at the UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland. For the unversed, the quarter-final draw is an open draw where there will be no restrictions on which team can draw whom.

On Friday (March 18), the draw for the 2021/22 UEFA Champions League (UCL) Quarter-Final will take place at the UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland. For the unversed, the quarter-final draw is an open draw where there will be no restrictions on which team can draw whom. Hence, even the clubs from the same country have a chance of squaring off with each other; throwing up a possibility of a Madrid-derby or two of Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea locking horns with each other. In addition, the draw for the semi-final will also be announced on Friday. Before that, here's everything you need to know about the UCL QF Draw - ALSO READ | Paul Pogba reveals his house was burgled amid children's presence during Man Utd's CL tie vs Atletico Which are the eight teams involved in the draw? Defending champions Chelsea will be joined by Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Manchester City, Atletico Madrid, Benfica, and Villareal. At what time will the UEFA Champions League QF draw take place? The UEFA Champions League quarters' draw will commence at 4:30 PM IST. Where can you watch the UEFA Champions League QF draw in India? The UEFA Champions League QF draw will be telecast on Sony Ten 2 and Ten 2 HD in India. Where can you live stream the UEFA Champions League QF draw in India? The UCL QF Draw's live streaming will take place on SonyLiv in the country. ALSO READ | Is it happening? Cristiano Ronaldo to leave Manchester United and join Lionel Messi at PSG - Reports In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the UCL final has been moved from Gazprom Arena, in Russia, and will now take place at the Stade de France in Paris on May 28. The race for the final is getting intense with each passing week and, thus, one expects some mouth-watering contests and more twists and turns as we progress to the UCL knockouts. Which two teams will make the final and who will be the side to walk away with the coveted title? Only time will tell...

UCL QF fixtures - All you need to know: Telecast, live streaming, timings, likely face-offs

Ukrainian football manager Yuriy Vernydub had celebrated passionately as he inspired his club Sheriff Tiraspol to a stunning win over Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League in September last year. Sheriff Tiraspol had pulled off one of the biggest upsets in the Champions League history as they earned a 2-1 win over 13-time European champions Real Madrid at their home - Santiago Bernabeu.

The victory had helped the Moldovanclub finish on top of Group D which also had the likes of Inter Milan and Shakhtar Donetsk along with Real Madrid. It was one of the biggest wins in the history of the club, which have an annual budget of around only 6-7 million USD. After guiding the minnows to a win against the La Liga giants, Vernydub is now back in his home country - Ukraine, far from the football field for an entirely different battle.

Six months after the win over Real Madrid, Vernydub left his team midway through their Europa League campaign last week to return to Ukraine to support the country in their ongoing war against Russia. Russia has launched a full-fledged military invasion of Ukraine and the country is battling hard amid support from all corners of the globe.

Like many other former and current sports stars in Ukraine, Vernydub has exchanged his coaching gear for that of the Ukrainian forces and is ready to fight against Russia. The football coach has joined the Ukrainian forces and a picture of him in army uniform has left many on social media inspired.

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Incredible: Yuriy Vernydub, who managed Sheriff to a famous Champions League victory at Real Madrid last September has returned to Ukraine and mobilized to defend his nation. These images speak volumes about unpredictability of life and commitment to homeland. Godspeed Yuriy <a href="https://t.co/hoenQ5MnCO">pic.twitter.com/hoenQ5MnCO</a>
— roger bennett (@rogbennett) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogbennett/status/1498318253713674249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In September 2021, Yuriy Vernydub Led FC Sheriff to a Historic Victory against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu in one of the biggest-ever Champions League shocks. 
 
Now, Sheriff's Manager - Yuri Vernudyb is Back in his native - Ukraine, defending his country. 
 
<a href="https://t.co/4n7NyTx6uA">pic.twitter.com/4n7NyTx6uA</a>
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&nbsp;

Vernydub revealed his son broke the news to him of Russia's attack on Ukraine and the first thing he wanted to do was to return home and join the army. The Sheriff Tiraspol manager said he immediately enrolled in the army once he was back home despite his family suggesting him not to do so.

"My son called me at 4:30 am and he told me the Russians attacked us. I knew then that I would return to Ukraine to fight," Vernydub was quoted as saying by BBC.

"We flew home and landed in Iasi, Romania. I then went by bus to Tiraspol, in Transnistria, with the rest of the team on Friday evening and left for Ukraine first thing on Saturday morning. I enrolled on Sunday," He added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-under-attack-heres-how-ukrainian-sports-stars-joining-fight-against-russia-458607">Ukraine under attack: Here's how Ukrainian sports stars joining fight against Russia</a>

The 56-year-old football coach was born in Zhytomyr, a northern city in Ukraine. In his professional career as a footballer, he played for several clubs including &nbsp;Russian heavyweights Zenit Saint Petersburg before retiring. He began his managerial career in 2002 when he became the assistant manager of the Ukrainian football club Metalurh Zaporizhzhia.

He became the manager of Sheriff Tiraspol in 2020 and led the club to the Moldovian National Division title in his first year in charge of the club. After masterminding one of the biggest wins for Sheriff against Real Madrid,&nbsp;Vernydub is now on the battlefront against the Russians and is in no mood to leave his country.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-captains-to-wear-special-armbands-in-ukrainian-colours-to-show-support-458536">Premier League: Captains to wear special armbands in Ukrainian colours to show support</a>

"The people close to me tried to stop me. My wife, my children, my grandchildren. I stood strong and I thank my wife for supporting me. She knows my character. If I make a decision, I won't change it," said the 56-year-old.

"We could have gone to Moldova and this option is still open for my children, for their wives, for my grandchildren. But me and my wife - we are staying here for sure," he added.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Ukrainian football manager Yuriy Vernydub had celebrated passionately as he inspired his club Sheriff Tiraspol to a stunning win over Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League in September last year.

Ukrainian football manager Yuriy Vernydub had celebrated passionately as he inspired his club Sheriff Tiraspol to a stunning win over Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League in September last year. Sheriff Tiraspol had pulled off one of the biggest upsets in the Champions League history as they earned a 2-1 win over 13-time European champions Real Madrid at their home - Santiago Bernabeu. The victory had helped the Moldovanclub finish on top of Group D which also had the likes of Inter Milan and Shakhtar Donetsk along with Real Madrid. It was one of the biggest wins in the history of the club, which have an annual budget of around only 6-7 million USD. After guiding the minnows to a win against the La Liga giants, Vernydub is now back in his home country - Ukraine, far from the football field for an entirely different battle. Six months after the win over Real Madrid, Vernydub left his team midway through their Europa League campaign last week to return to Ukraine to support the country in their ongoing war against Russia. Russia has launched a full-fledged military invasion of Ukraine and the country is battling hard amid support from all corners of the globe. Like many other former and current sports stars in Ukraine, Vernydub has exchanged his coaching gear for that of the Ukrainian forces and is ready to fight against Russia. The football coach has joined the Ukrainian forces and a picture of him in army uniform has left many on social media inspired. Incredible: Yuriy Vernydub, who managed Sheriff to a famous Champions League victory at Real Madrid last September has returned to Ukraine and mobilized to defend his nation. These images speak volumes about unpredictability of life and commitment to homeland. Godspeed Yuriy pic.twitter.com/hoenQ5MnCO — roger bennett (@rogbennett) February 28, 2022 × In September 2021, Yuriy Vernydub Led FC Sheriff to a Historic Victory against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu in one of the biggest-ever Champions League shocks. Now, Sheriff's Manager - Yuri Vernudyb is Back in his native - Ukraine, defending his country. pic.twitter.com/4n7NyTx6uA — AZR (@AzrOrganization) March 1, 2022 × Vernydub revealed his son broke the news to him of Russia's attack on Ukraine and the first thing he wanted to do was to return home and join the army. The Sheriff Tiraspol manager said he immediately enrolled in the army once he was back home despite his family suggesting him not to do so. "My son called me at 4:30 am and he told me the Russians attacked us. I knew then that I would return to Ukraine to fight," Vernydub was quoted as saying by BBC. "We flew home and landed in Iasi, Romania. I then went by bus to Tiraspol, in Transnistria, with the rest of the team on Friday evening and left for Ukraine first thing on Saturday morning. I enrolled on Sunday," He added. Also Read: Ukraine under attack: Here's how Ukrainian sports stars joining fight against Russia The 56-year-old football coach was born in Zhytomyr, a northern city in Ukraine. In his professional career as a footballer, he played for several clubs including Russian heavyweights Zenit Saint Petersburg before retiring. He began his managerial career in 2002 when he became the assistant manager of the Ukrainian football club Metalurh Zaporizhzhia. He became the manager of Sheriff Tiraspol in 2020 and led the club to the Moldovian National Division title in his first year in charge of the club. After masterminding one of the biggest wins for Sheriff against Real Madrid, Vernydub is now on the battlefront against the Russians and is in no mood to leave his country. Also Read: Premier League: Captains to wear special armbands in Ukrainian colours to show support "The people close to me tried to stop me. My wife, my children, my grandchildren. I stood strong and I thank my wife for supporting me. She knows my character. If I make a decision, I won't change it," said the 56-year-old. "We could have gone to Moldova and this option is still open for my children, for their wives, for my grandchildren. But me and my wife - we are staying here for sure," he added.

Ukrainian football manager who beat Real Madrid last year is now on battlefield for his country

The UEFA Champions League returns with a blockbuster clash involving two of Europe's biggest clubs. Lionel Messi's Paris Saint Germain take on Real Madrid in the first leg of the Round of 16 tie. WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo sets up the match with Welsh Football coach Matt Holland.

UEFA Champions League: Paris Saint Germain vs Real Madrid Preview

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal has tested positive for COVID-19 while the team is in Saudi Arabia playing in the Spanish Super Cup, the club confirmed on Friday.

A Real Madrid spokesman told Reuters that the club is consulting the Saudi authorities to learn what procedures to follow. The club confirmed that the player had been vaccinated against COVID-19.

Saudi Arabia`s COVID-19 protocols determine that any person who tests positive has to quarantine for seven days and test negative twice before being cleared.

Real are set to face Athletic Bilbao in Sunday`s final, after beating rivals Barcelona 3-2 after extra time in the semis. 
Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales confirmed on Friday that there are unvaccinated players at the tournament. 
Reuters reported on Thursday that Saudi Arabia waived its requirement for visitors to be fully vaccinated to allow players from Spain to compete in the Spanish Super Cup on Saudi soil.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/liverpool-frustrated-by-10-man-arsenal-in-league-cup-semi-final-stalemate-444668">Liverpool frustrated by 10-man Arsenal in League Cup semi-final stalemate</a>

"The Saudi government told us that exceptions were going to be made," Rubiales told Spanish radio station Cadena SER on Friday.

"We are being criticised for doing that but we would also be if eight or 10 players missed the tournament... In life, it doesn`t matter what you do, everything is going to be criticised. We are happy that Saudi Arabia understood our exceptions."

Full vaccination is mandatory to enter the kingdom according to guidelines on the government website. 
Yet, those exceptions were exposed when Brazil coach Tite announced on Thursday&nbsp;that he was leaving Atletico Madrid defender Renan Lodi out of his squad for the next two World Cup qualifiers because the player has not had a full course of COVID-19 vaccines.

Lodi entered Saudi Arabia on Tuesday and played against Athletic Bilbao later on Thursday in the tournament`s second semi-final. 
Rubiales defended the Spanish FA for moving the Super Cup to Saudi Arabia, which has been accused of human rights violations by Amnesty International.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/efl-cup-when-and-where-to-watch-liverpool-vs-arsenal-carabao-cup-semi-final-encounter-444501">EFL Cup: When and where to watch Liverpool vs Arsenal Carabao Cup semi-final encounter?</a>

Saudi Arabia has no codified legal system and no laws regarding sexual orientation or gender identity. Judges have convicted people for "immorality", having sexual relations outside of marriage, and homosexual sex.

"We are a football federation that reached an agreement with another federation," Rubiales told SER.

"We have found a magnificent agreement for Spanish and Saudi football. I do not enter into criticism. When they criticise, they talk about politics, about things outside of football.

"There are many companies that work here. We are doing a service for Spanish football and we are also campaigning to host the World Cup so here is the right place to be."

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal has tested positive for COVID-19 while the team is in Saudi Arabia playing in the Spanish Super Cup, the club confirmed on Friday.

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal has tested positive for COVID-19 while the team is in Saudi Arabia playing in the Spanish Super Cup, the club confirmed on Friday. A Real Madrid spokesman told Reuters that the club is consulting the Saudi authorities to learn what procedures to follow. The club confirmed that the player had been vaccinated against COVID-19. Saudi Arabia`s COVID-19 protocols determine that any person who tests positive has to quarantine for seven days and test negative twice before being cleared. Real are set to face Athletic Bilbao in Sunday`s final, after beating rivals Barcelona 3-2 after extra time in the semis. Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales confirmed on Friday that there are unvaccinated players at the tournament. Reuters reported on Thursday that Saudi Arabia waived its requirement for visitors to be fully vaccinated to allow players from Spain to compete in the Spanish Super Cup on Saudi soil. Read Also | Liverpool frustrated by 10-man Arsenal in League Cup semi-final stalemate "The Saudi government told us that exceptions were going to be made," Rubiales told Spanish radio station Cadena SER on Friday. "We are being criticised for doing that but we would also be if eight or 10 players missed the tournament... In life, it doesn`t matter what you do, everything is going to be criticised. We are happy that Saudi Arabia understood our exceptions." Full vaccination is mandatory to enter the kingdom according to guidelines on the government website. Yet, those exceptions were exposed when Brazil coach Tite announced on Thursday that he was leaving Atletico Madrid defender Renan Lodi out of his squad for the next two World Cup qualifiers because the player has not had a full course of COVID-19 vaccines. Lodi entered Saudi Arabia on Tuesday and played against Athletic Bilbao later on Thursday in the tournament`s second semi-final. Rubiales defended the Spanish FA for moving the Super Cup to Saudi Arabia, which has been accused of human rights violations by Amnesty International. Read Also | EFL Cup: When and where to watch Liverpool vs Arsenal Carabao Cup semi-final encounter? Saudi Arabia has no codified legal system and no laws regarding sexual orientation or gender identity. Judges have convicted people for "immorality", having sexual relations outside of marriage, and homosexual sex. "We are a football federation that reached an agreement with another federation," Rubiales told SER. "We have found a magnificent agreement for Spanish and Saudi football. I do not enter into criticism. When they criticise, they talk about politics, about things outside of football. "There are many companies that work here. We are doing a service for Spanish football and we are also campaigning to host the World Cup so here is the right place to be."

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal tests Covid positive in Saudi Arabia

Federico Valverde finished off a stunning move in extra time to give Real Madrid a 3-2 victory over rivals Barcelona in an exhilarating Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.

Real advanced to Sunday’s final and will face the winner of Thursday’s clash between tournament holders Athletic Bilbao and LaLiga champions Atletico Madrid in the Saudi capital Riyadh.

Vinicius Jr opened the scoring for Real from a counter-attack early in the first half, but Luuk de Jong equalised shortly before halftime following a mistake by Real defender Eder Militao.

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Karim Benzema put Real back in front 25 minutes into the second half, striking home on the rebound from inside the area, but a header by substitute Ansu Fati, who was making his first appearance since November, took the game into extra time.

Real found the winner from another counter-attack, with Rodrygo firing a low cross to the edge of the area. Vinicius dummied to shoot, which eliminated the entire Barca defence and left Valverde all alone to tap the ball into an empty net.

Federico Valverde finished off a stunning move in extra time to give Real Madrid a 3-2 victory over rivals Barcelona in an exhilarating Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.

Federico Valverde finished off a stunning move in extra time to give Real Madrid a 3-2 victory over rivals Barcelona in an exhilarating Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday. Real advanced to Sunday’s final and will face the winner of Thursday’s clash between tournament holders Athletic Bilbao and LaLiga champions Atletico Madrid in the Saudi capital Riyadh. Vinicius Jr opened the scoring for Real from a counter-attack early in the first half, but Luuk de Jong equalised shortly before halftime following a mistake by Real defender Eder Militao. Read Also | Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp 'staying positive' of Mohamed Salah signing new contract Karim Benzema put Real back in front 25 minutes into the second half, striking home on the rebound from inside the area, but a header by substitute Ansu Fati, who was making his first appearance since November, took the game into extra time. Real found the winner from another counter-attack, with Rodrygo firing a low cross to the edge of the area. Vinicius dummied to shoot, which eliminated the entire Barca defence and left Valverde all alone to tap the ball into an empty net.

Spanish Super Cup semis: Federico Valverde's extra-time winner gives Real Madrid 3-2 victory vs Barcelona

Real Madrid strike duo Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr both scored a brace to give the LaLiga leaders a 4-1 home win over Valencia on Saturday, putting them back on track after last weekend`s disappointing loss to Getafe.

Benzema opened the scoring shortly before halftime from the penalty spot, his 300th goal in all competitions for Real. He is the fourth player in the club`s history to reach the milestone after Alfredo di Stefano (308), Raul (323) and Cristiano Ronaldo (450). 
Fan favourite Vinicius, who missed Real`s last two games after testing positive for COVID-19, came back with a vengeance and scored twice early in the second half.

Goncalo Guedes scored Valencia`s consolation goal in the 76th minute with a header on the rebound after Thibaut Courtois had saved his penalty kick. Benzema sealed the emphatic win two minutes from the end with a low shot from inside the box.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/isl-2021-22-atk-mohun-bagans-clash-against-odisha-fc-postponed-due-to-covid-19-443209">ISL 2021-22: ATK Mohun Bagan's clash against Odisha FC postponed due to Covid-19</a>

"It`s an honour and I`m proud to reach 301 goals with Real Madrid because they are the best club in the world," Benzema told reporters. "We played a great game for ourselves but also for the fans, who deserved it after the loss to Getafe." 
Real Madrid extended their lead at the top of the standings to 49 points from 21 games, eight points ahead of Sevilla who have two games in hand and host Getafe on Sunday.

It took a while for Carlo Ancelotti`s team to warm up on a freezing winter night at Santiago Bernabeu, where the fans are becoming used to gathering between scaffolding as Real Madrid continue the 800-million-euro ($908.72 million) renovation of their home. 
After a flat beginning, Real found their rhythm late in the first half as Luka Modric struck a shot that rattled the crossbar from the edge of the box.

The hosts kept pressing until they found the opener after Casemiro fell inside the area when challenged by defender Omar Alderete. Benzema stepped up and rifled the ball into the top right corner beyond Jasper Cillessen.

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Real kept up their pace after halftime and Vinicius scored twice in nine minutes, first after a beautiful combination with Benzema, clearing two defenders before finishing all alone in the six-yard-box. His second came from tapping in a rebound on the goal line following an effort from Marco Asensio.

Benzema`s goals meant he stayed clear at the top of the scoring charts in LaLiga this season with 17, followed by Vinicius on 12. Together they have scored 29 of Real`s 45 league goals this campaign.

Real Madrid strike duo Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr both scored a brace to give the LaLiga leaders a 4-1 home win over Valencia on Saturday, putting them back on track after last weekend`s disappointing loss to Getafe.

Real Madrid strike duo Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr both scored a brace to give the LaLiga leaders a 4-1 home win over Valencia on Saturday, putting them back on track after last weekend`s disappointing loss to Getafe. Benzema opened the scoring shortly before halftime from the penalty spot, his 300th goal in all competitions for Real. He is the fourth player in the club`s history to reach the milestone after Alfredo di Stefano (308), Raul (323) and Cristiano Ronaldo (450). Fan favourite Vinicius, who missed Real`s last two games after testing positive for COVID-19, came back with a vengeance and scored twice early in the second half. Goncalo Guedes scored Valencia`s consolation goal in the 76th minute with a header on the rebound after Thibaut Courtois had saved his penalty kick. Benzema sealed the emphatic win two minutes from the end with a low shot from inside the box. Read Also | ISL 2021-22: ATK Mohun Bagan's clash against Odisha FC postponed due to Covid-19 "It`s an honour and I`m proud to reach 301 goals with Real Madrid because they are the best club in the world," Benzema told reporters. "We played a great game for ourselves but also for the fans, who deserved it after the loss to Getafe." Real Madrid extended their lead at the top of the standings to 49 points from 21 games, eight points ahead of Sevilla who have two games in hand and host Getafe on Sunday. It took a while for Carlo Ancelotti`s team to warm up on a freezing winter night at Santiago Bernabeu, where the fans are becoming used to gathering between scaffolding as Real Madrid continue the 800-million-euro ($908.72 million) renovation of their home. After a flat beginning, Real found their rhythm late in the first half as Luka Modric struck a shot that rattled the crossbar from the edge of the box. The hosts kept pressing until they found the opener after Casemiro fell inside the area when challenged by defender Omar Alderete. Benzema stepped up and rifled the ball into the top right corner beyond Jasper Cillessen. Read Also | Borussia Moenchengladbach score two goals in four minutes to stun Bayern Munich in Bundesliga Real kept up their pace after halftime and Vinicius scored twice in nine minutes, first after a beautiful combination with Benzema, clearing two defenders before finishing all alone in the six-yard-box. His second came from tapping in a rebound on the goal line following an effort from Marco Asensio. Benzema`s goals meant he stayed clear at the top of the scoring charts in LaLiga this season with 17, followed by Vinicius on 12. Together they have scored 29 of Real`s 45 league goals this campaign.

Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr shine as Real Madrid thrash Valencia 4-1 in La Liga

Spanish midfielder Isco and Austrian defender&nbsp;David&nbsp;Alaba&nbsp;have joined Real Madrid's list of players contracting Covid-19, the Liga leaders announced on Tuesday.

"Real Madrid C. F. confirm our players Isco and&nbsp;David&nbsp;Alaba&nbsp;have tested positive for COVID-19," the club said in a statement.

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The pair join six other players recovering from the virus -- Marco Asensio, Gareth Bale, Andriy Lunin, Rodrygo, Luka Modric and Marcelo -- and assistant coach Davide Ancelotti, son of head coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Real play Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday.

ALSO&nbsp; READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-juventus-thrash-cagliari-2-0-salernitana-udinese-game-suspended-due-to-covid-19-cases-438995">Serie A: Juventus thrash Cagliari 2-0, Salernitana-Udinese game suspended due to COVID-19 cases</a>

Under Liga protocols, a club must have at least 13 players, at least five of them first-teamers and one a goalkeeper, available to play a match.&nbsp;

Vaccinated players can return as soon as they test negative.&nbsp;

Spanish midfielder Isco and Austrian defender David Alaba have joined Real Madrid's list of players contracting Covid-19, the Liga leaders announced on Tuesday. "Real Madrid C.

Spanish midfielder Isco and Austrian defender David Alaba have joined Real Madrid's list of players contracting Covid-19, the Liga leaders announced on Tuesday. "Real Madrid C. F. confirm our players Isco and David Alaba have tested positive for COVID-19," the club said in a statement. Comunicado Oficial.#RealMadrid — Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) December 21, 2021 × The pair join six other players recovering from the virus -- Marco Asensio, Gareth Bale, Andriy Lunin, Rodrygo, Luka Modric and Marcelo -- and assistant coach Davide Ancelotti, son of head coach Carlo Ancelotti. Real play Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Serie A: Juventus thrash Cagliari 2-0, Salernitana-Udinese game suspended due to COVID-19 cases Under Liga protocols, a club must have at least 13 players, at least five of them first-teamers and one a goalkeeper, available to play a match. Vaccinated players can return as soon as they test negative.

La Liga: Isco, David Alaba join six other players in Real Madrid Covid-19 list

Spain's top soccer clubs approved on Friday a 2.1 billion euro ($2.37 billion) investment from private equity fund CVC Capital Partners for an 8.2% stake in a new company that would manage broadcasting revenues, a source close to LaLiga said.

The "LaLiga Boost" deal marked the first investment agreement from a private equity firm in a major European League.

During a LaLiga General Assembly, 37 clubs voted in favour of the deal, while Real Madrid, Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao and Ibiza voted against, and one club abstained, the source told Reuters.

At least 32 of the 42 teams from the Spanish first and second divisions needed to back the deal to get it through.

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Goldman Sachs will contribute with a portion of the funds that CVC will invest in the Spanish football league and recover over 50 years, sources from LaLiga and the fund had said.

A source close to Real Madrid told Reuters that the club will begin legal action against LaLiga as they threatened to do after they announced their objection in August.

($1 = 0.8869 euros)

Spain's top soccer clubs approved on Friday a 2.1 billion euro ($2.37 billion) investment from private equity fund CVC Capital Partners for an 8.2% stake in a new company that would manage broadcasting revenues, a source close to LaLiga said.

Spain's top soccer clubs approved on Friday a 2.1 billion euro ($2.37 billion) investment from private equity fund CVC Capital Partners for an 8.2% stake in a new company that would manage broadcasting revenues, a source close to LaLiga said. The "LaLiga Boost" deal marked the first investment agreement from a private equity firm in a major European League. During a LaLiga General Assembly, 37 clubs voted in favour of the deal, while Real Madrid, Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao and Ibiza voted against, and one club abstained, the source told Reuters. At least 32 of the 42 teams from the Spanish first and second divisions needed to back the deal to get it through. ALSO READ: Premier League: Tottenham Hotspur vs Brighton match postponed due to Covid-19 Goldman Sachs will contribute with a portion of the funds that CVC will invest in the Spanish football league and recover over 50 years, sources from LaLiga and the fund had said. A source close to Real Madrid told Reuters that the club will begin legal action against LaLiga as they threatened to do after they announced their objection in August. ($1 = 0.8869 euros)

La Liga clubs approve CVC's 2.1 billion euro capital injection despite Barcelona, Real Madrid opposing deal

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said forward Eden Hazard still wants to succeed at the club despite being hampered by injuries and poor form since arriving in 2019.

Belgium international Hazard, 30, joined Real Madrid from Chelsea for a reported 120 million euros ($134.94 million). He scored four goals in 21 appearances in all competitions last season but has yet to find the net this campaign, having played 11 times so far.

Hazard has not started a game since their shock 2-1 Champions League home loss to Sheriff Tiraspol in September and was not included in the squad for Wednesday's return match in Moldova.\

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"I have known Eden for a long time and know that his dream was to play for Real Madrid. It's a shame it hasn't worked out yet as everyone would like it to," Courtois said.

"I can see that he has got the desire, joy and he wants to help the team. He is looking to improve. It's not easy to take back your best form when you haven't played for the last two and a half years.

"He has showed in his entire career he is one of the best players in the world. He hasn't been able to show it lately, but that talent is not gone and I am sure he will get back, so we cannot kill him believing he is an average player because he is not."

Real Madrid top Champions League Group D with nine points from four games, two points ahead of Inter Milan with Sheriff a point further back in third.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said forward Eden Hazard still wants to succeed at the club despite being hampered by injuries and poor form since arriving in 2019.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said forward Eden Hazard still wants to succeed at the club despite being hampered by injuries and poor form since arriving in 2019. Belgium international Hazard, 30, joined Real Madrid from Chelsea for a reported 120 million euros ($134.94 million). He scored four goals in 21 appearances in all competitions last season but has yet to find the net this campaign, having played 11 times so far. Hazard has not started a game since their shock 2-1 Champions League home loss to Sheriff Tiraspol in September and was not included in the squad for Wednesday's return match in Moldova.\ ALSO READ | France and Real Madrid star Karim Benzema gets one-year suspended jail term "I have known Eden for a long time and know that his dream was to play for Real Madrid. It's a shame it hasn't worked out yet as everyone would like it to," Courtois said. "I can see that he has got the desire, joy and he wants to help the team. He is looking to improve. It's not easy to take back your best form when you haven't played for the last two and a half years. "He has showed in his entire career he is one of the best players in the world. He hasn't been able to show it lately, but that talent is not gone and I am sure he will get back, so we cannot kill him believing he is an average player because he is not." Real Madrid top Champions League Group D with nine points from four games, two points ahead of Inter Milan with Sheriff a point further back in third.

'He wants to help the team': Thibaut Courtois reveals Eden Hazard still wants to succeed at Real Madrid

Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 in the first Clasico of the season in front of 86,422 fans at the Camp Nou on Sunday after a sensational strike from defender David Alaba and a late goal from Lucas Vazquez gave Carlo Ancelotti`s side three points.

Barcelona controlled possession in the first half but Real were lethal on the counter-attack, taking the lead when Alaba started a flowing move with a tackle and finished it at the other end with a left-footed drive from the edge of the box.

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Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman brought on Philippe Coutinho at halftime while strikers Sergio Aguero and Luuk de Jong were also thrown on in the second half as they searched for an equaliser.

With seven minutes of injury time added on, Real doubled their lead when Marc-Andre ter Stegen saved a shot from Marco Asensio from another counter-attack but Vazquez pounced on the rebound to score.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/marcus-rashford-youngsters-must-strive-to-have-career-like-cristiano-ronaldo-says-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-423511">Marcus Rashford, youngsters must strive to have career like Cristiano Ronaldo, says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</a>

Barca got a goal back in the 97th minute when Sergino Dest crossed to the Aguero in the six-yard box and the Argentine tapped in but it proved to be a consolation goal as Real moved provisionally top of LaLiga with 20 points.

Barcelona are five points behind in eighth place. 
&nbsp;

Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 in the first Clasico of the season in front of 86,422 fans at the Camp Nou on Sunday after a sensational strike from defender David Alaba and a late goal from Lucas Vazquez gave Carlo Ancelotti`s side three points.

Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 in the first Clasico of the season in front of 86,422 fans at the Camp Nou on Sunday after a sensational strike from defender David Alaba and a late goal from Lucas Vazquez gave Carlo Ancelotti`s side three points. Barcelona controlled possession in the first half but Real were lethal on the counter-attack, taking the lead when Alaba started a flowing move with a tackle and finished it at the other end with a left-footed drive from the edge of the box. ALSO READ: Premier League: Manchester United has quality to cause Liverpool problems, says Jurgen Klopp Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman brought on Philippe Coutinho at halftime while strikers Sergio Aguero and Luuk de Jong were also thrown on in the second half as they searched for an equaliser. With seven minutes of injury time added on, Real doubled their lead when Marc-Andre ter Stegen saved a shot from Marco Asensio from another counter-attack but Vazquez pounced on the rebound to score. ALSO READ: Marcus Rashford, youngsters must strive to have career like Cristiano Ronaldo, says Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Barca got a goal back in the 97th minute when Sergino Dest crossed to the Aguero in the six-yard box and the Argentine tapped in but it proved to be a consolation goal as Real moved provisionally top of LaLiga with 20 points. Barcelona are five points behind in eighth place.

El Clasico: David Alaba strikes as Real Madrid beat struggling rivals Barcelona in La Liga

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said his side will need to be fearless to beat rivals Real Madrid on Sunday as he called on the club`s fans to get behind the team following a challenging start to the season.

Barca`s imposing Camp Nou stadium will be back to its old self on Sunday for `El Clasico` with 99,000 hardcore supporters packed into the ground, following the end to restrictions on capacity imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Koeman, whose side have endured a mixed start to the season winning four of their opening eight games in LaLiga, is well aware of the advantage a full stadium could offer his side against their fierce rivals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-united-has-quality-to-cause-liverpool-problems-says-jurgen-klopp-423031">Premier League: Manchester United has quality to cause Liverpool problems, says Jurgen Klopp</a>

"We won two games in a row and the environment is much better. So we need the support of our fans on Sunday against Real Madrid. We need a full house and we need to make our people proud," Koeman told a news conference on Saturday.

"We are very excited and looking forward to Sunday. I told the players that they need to enjoy the environment that we will have in Camp Nou. It`s not an additional pressure. We have to go out there and be fearless," said the Dutch coach, whose job has been under scrutiny this season.

Despite the criticism that has surrounded the team this campaign, following the departures of Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann due to the club`s deep financial crisis and some poor results in LaLiga and the Champions League, Koeman does not see a big difference between his side and Real Madrid.

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"There is no fear from our side. I think we both have a good mix of youth and experience. We are better in ball possession and they are very dangerous counter attacking," Koeman explained.

"We have to be aware of their speed when we lose possession and we need to be effective when we have the chance to score. In a game like this, we can`t afford to miss opportunities."

Koeman confirmed that Jordi Alba was a full participant in their last training session and will be available after suffering an ankle injury against Dynamo Kyiv in the Champions League on Wednesday. 
&nbsp;

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said his side will need to be fearless to beat rivals Real Madrid on Sunday as he called on the club`s fans to get behind the team following a challenging start to the season.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said his side will need to be fearless to beat rivals Real Madrid on Sunday as he called on the club`s fans to get behind the team following a challenging start to the season. Barca`s imposing Camp Nou stadium will be back to its old self on Sunday for `El Clasico` with 99,000 hardcore supporters packed into the ground, following the end to restrictions on capacity imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Koeman, whose side have endured a mixed start to the season winning four of their opening eight games in LaLiga, is well aware of the advantage a full stadium could offer his side against their fierce rivals. ALSO READ: Premier League: Manchester United has quality to cause Liverpool problems, says Jurgen Klopp "We won two games in a row and the environment is much better. So we need the support of our fans on Sunday against Real Madrid. We need a full house and we need to make our people proud," Koeman told a news conference on Saturday. "We are very excited and looking forward to Sunday. I told the players that they need to enjoy the environment that we will have in Camp Nou. It`s not an additional pressure. We have to go out there and be fearless," said the Dutch coach, whose job has been under scrutiny this season. Despite the criticism that has surrounded the team this campaign, following the departures of Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann due to the club`s deep financial crisis and some poor results in LaLiga and the Champions League, Koeman does not see a big difference between his side and Real Madrid. ALSO READ: Karim Benzema's lawyers criticise 'sex tape' trial on last day of hearings "There is no fear from our side. I think we both have a good mix of youth and experience. We are better in ball possession and they are very dangerous counter attacking," Koeman explained. "We have to be aware of their speed when we lose possession and we need to be effective when we have the chance to score. In a game like this, we can`t afford to miss opportunities." Koeman confirmed that Jordi Alba was a full participant in their last training session and will be available after suffering an ankle injury against Dynamo Kyiv in the Champions League on Wednesday.

El Clasico: Ronald Koeman says Barcelona need to make fans proud against Real Madrid

Barcelona's players met for dinner in a Catalan restaurant late on Wednesday night to celebrate Ansu Fati's new contract and to bond ahead of Sunday's Clasico against Real Madrid.

The 18-year-old Fati committing himself for another six years carried special significance for&nbsp;Barcelona.&nbsp;

Despite all the problems they face, one of the most exciting talents in the world had pledged his future, raising hopes he can be the leader of a new generation for many years to come.

More immediately, there was the desire for camaraderie ahead of the visit of Real Madrid at Camp Nou.&nbsp;

It will be a chance for Barca to regain lost ground in La Liga and to round off an encouraging week that has already seen them beat Valencia and scrape a much-needed Champions League win over Dynamo Kiev.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/el-clasico-lionel-messis-departure-puts-spotlight-on-rising-stars-ansu-fati-and-vinicius-jr-422628">El Clasico: Lionel Messi's departure puts spotlight on rising stars Ansu Fati and Vinicius Jr</a>

Those two intertwining threads – navigating the present while nurturing the future – feel like the defining feature of this Clasico, a meeting of two historic clubs, each of them trying to strategise, fix and rebuild while simultaneously flapping their arms just to keep heads above water.

Last summer, in the same restaurant,&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;president Joan Laporta met Ronald Koeman to discuss the season ahead.&nbsp;

Laporta told Koeman he needed two weeks to assess his position as coach, which was taken to mean he would try to find a successor.

But nobody could be found, or at least persuaded, and consequently an awkward, unhappy marriage has continued.

Across from Koeman on Sunday will be Carlo Ancelotti whose appointment by Real Madrid in the summer came as a surprise.

Ancelotti's predecessor, Zinedine Zidane, had been fiercely loyal to the club’s hugely successful, but older, generation of players and the expectation was Madrid would plump for a coach with a grander vision, one that was prepared to facilitate change.

Instead, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez turned to Ancelotti, who had already managed the club between 2013 and 2015.

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That is not to say Ancelotti and Koeman have not embraced youth. Koeman can take credit for promoting several of the players&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;are most excited about including Pedri, Gavi, Nico Gonzalez, Ronald Araujo and Sergino Dest.

Ancelotti has put faith in Miguel Gutierrez at left-back and Eduardo Camavinga in midfield. The 21-year-old Vinicius Junior made his Real Madrid debut in 2018 but under Ancelotti is in the form of his fledgling career.

Gavi might not have been given his chance had&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;been able to grant Koeman his wish to sign Georginio Wijnaldum, who chose Paris Saint-Germain. Miguel has seen his route to the Madrid starting line-up shortened by an injury to Ferland Mendy.

There also remains a loyalty to the old guard, a justifiable belief that Gerard Pique at 34 is still&nbsp;Barcelona's most important defender or that Luka Modric at 36 is still Madrid's finest midfield playmaker.&nbsp;

The result on Sunday will be two sides made up of separate generations.

The 17-year-old Gavi may play alongside the 33-year-old Sergio Busquets or the 20-year-old Rodrygo in support of the 33-year-old Karim Benzema.

With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo gone, La Liga is trying to harness the image of Spanish football as the world's new talent factory and the Clasico – its most marketable fixture - as a window into the future.&nbsp;

On Twitter, La Liga's official account asked on Thursday: "Which teenage star are you most excited to watch in #ElClasico?"

And yet there is a conflict there too, with Real Madrid and&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;still officially attached to the European Super League, a project-based not on encouraging local talent but pocketing financial rewards and attracting bigger television audiences.

Barcelona&nbsp;brand their squad the 'Dream Teen' online but Laporta believes the quickest route to financial stability is not Fati or Gavi but a closed-off league, with more games against Liverpool, Manchester United and PSG.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-cristiano-ronaldo-saves-man-united-big-wins-for-chelsea-bayern-munich-422539">Champions League: Cristiano Ronaldo saves Man United; big wins for Chelsea, Bayern Munich</a>

It means whoever wins the Clasico on Sunday will, for a few days, own the narrative, take confidence and momentum, and perhaps plunge their opponents into a period of crisis and doubt.&nbsp;

But beneath the scrap for points and position and power is a deeper duel, a fight for relevance again and reassurance that better days lie ahead.

Fixtures (GMT)

Friday

Osasuna v Granada (1900)

Saturday

Valencia v Mallorca (1200), Cadiz v Alaves (1415), Elche v Espanyol (1630), Athletic Club v Villarreal (1900)

Sunday

Sevilla v Levante (1200),&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;v Real Madrid (1415), Real Betis v Rayo Vallecano (1630), Atletico Madrid v Real Sociedad (1900)

Monday

Getafe v Celta Vigo (1900)

Barcelona's players met for dinner in a Catalan restaurant late on Wednesday night to celebrate Ansu Fati's new contract and to bond ahead of Sunday's Clasico against Real Madrid.

Barcelona's players met for dinner in a Catalan restaurant late on Wednesday night to celebrate Ansu Fati's new contract and to bond ahead of Sunday's Clasico against Real Madrid. The 18-year-old Fati committing himself for another six years carried special significance for Barcelona. Despite all the problems they face, one of the most exciting talents in the world had pledged his future, raising hopes he can be the leader of a new generation for many years to come. More immediately, there was the desire for camaraderie ahead of the visit of Real Madrid at Camp Nou. It will be a chance for Barca to regain lost ground in La Liga and to round off an encouraging week that has already seen them beat Valencia and scrape a much-needed Champions League win over Dynamo Kiev. ALSO READ: El Clasico: Lionel Messi's departure puts spotlight on rising stars Ansu Fati and Vinicius Jr Those two intertwining threads – navigating the present while nurturing the future – feel like the defining feature of this Clasico, a meeting of two historic clubs, each of them trying to strategise, fix and rebuild while simultaneously flapping their arms just to keep heads above water. Last summer, in the same restaurant, Barcelona president Joan Laporta met Ronald Koeman to discuss the season ahead. Laporta told Koeman he needed two weeks to assess his position as coach, which was taken to mean he would try to find a successor. But nobody could be found, or at least persuaded, and consequently an awkward, unhappy marriage has continued. Across from Koeman on Sunday will be Carlo Ancelotti whose appointment by Real Madrid in the summer came as a surprise. Ancelotti's predecessor, Zinedine Zidane, had been fiercely loyal to the club’s hugely successful, but older, generation of players and the expectation was Madrid would plump for a coach with a grander vision, one that was prepared to facilitate change. Instead, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez turned to Ancelotti, who had already managed the club between 2013 and 2015. ALSO READ: Manchester United club owners keen on buying an IPL team: Report That is not to say Ancelotti and Koeman have not embraced youth. Koeman can take credit for promoting several of the players Barcelona are most excited about including Pedri, Gavi, Nico Gonzalez, Ronald Araujo and Sergino Dest. Ancelotti has put faith in Miguel Gutierrez at left-back and Eduardo Camavinga in midfield. The 21-year-old Vinicius Junior made his Real Madrid debut in 2018 but under Ancelotti is in the form of his fledgling career. Gavi might not have been given his chance had Barcelona been able to grant Koeman his wish to sign Georginio Wijnaldum, who chose Paris Saint-Germain. Miguel has seen his route to the Madrid starting line-up shortened by an injury to Ferland Mendy. There also remains a loyalty to the old guard, a justifiable belief that Gerard Pique at 34 is still Barcelona's most important defender or that Luka Modric at 36 is still Madrid's finest midfield playmaker. The result on Sunday will be two sides made up of separate generations. The 17-year-old Gavi may play alongside the 33-year-old Sergio Busquets or the 20-year-old Rodrygo in support of the 33-year-old Karim Benzema. With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo gone, La Liga is trying to harness the image of Spanish football as the world's new talent factory and the Clasico – its most marketable fixture - as a window into the future. On Twitter, La Liga's official account asked on Thursday: "Which teenage star are you most excited to watch in #ElClasico?" And yet there is a conflict there too, with Real Madrid and Barcelona still officially attached to the European Super League, a project-based not on encouraging local talent but pocketing financial rewards and attracting bigger television audiences. Barcelona brand their squad the 'Dream Teen' online but Laporta believes the quickest route to financial stability is not Fati or Gavi but a closed-off league, with more games against Liverpool, Manchester United and PSG. ALSO READ | Champions League: Cristiano Ronaldo saves Man United; big wins for Chelsea, Bayern Munich It means whoever wins the Clasico on Sunday will, for a few days, own the narrative, take confidence and momentum, and perhaps plunge their opponents into a period of crisis and doubt. But beneath the scrap for points and position and power is a deeper duel, a fight for relevance again and reassurance that better days lie ahead. Fixtures (GMT) Friday Osasuna v Granada (1900) Saturday Valencia v Mallorca (1200), Cadiz v Alaves (1415), Elche v Espanyol (1630), Athletic Club v Villarreal (1900) Sunday Sevilla v Levante (1200), Barcelona v Real Madrid (1415), Real Betis v Rayo Vallecano (1630), Atletico Madrid v Real Sociedad (1900) Monday Getafe v Celta Vigo (1900)

Barcelona, Real Madrid combine present and future in Clasico of fallen giants

France and Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema went on trial in absentia on Wednesday, charged with complicity in the attempted blackmail of former international team mate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape.

Prosecutors allege that Benzema, who has denied wrongdoing, encouraged Valbuena to pay a suspected group of blackmailers in order to keep the sexually explicit tape out of the public eye.

They say Valbuena received a first call threatening to expose the tape in June, 2015 while at the French squad's training centre in Clairefontaine, west of Paris.

Valbuena told the court in nearby Versailles on Wednesday that it was clear the caller wanted money, and that the blackmail attempt left him fearing for his career and place in the national squad.

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Benzema was not in the court for the start of the trial because of professional obligations, said his lawyer, who has described the case against him as "absurd".

The 33-year-old, who has played 92 times for his country and was recalled to the France squad for this year's European Championship, played in Ukraine on Tuesday night in his club's 5-0 Champions League group stage win over Shakhtar Donetsk.

Benzema and Valbuena both lost their places in the national team in the wake of the scandal, dubbed the "sex tape affair".

According to prosecutors, Valbuena's anonymous first caller said he wanted to "come to an arrangement" with Valbuena and told him to name an intermediary.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-footballer-kylian-mbappe-will-be-godfather-of-one-of-the-panda-twins-born-at-beauval-zoo-422377">'French footballer Kylian Mbappe will be godfather of one of the panda twins born at Beauval zoo</a>

The blackmailers initially turned to former French international Djibril Cisse to persuade Valbuena to pay the hush money. Instead, Cisse warned him of the extortion plot, Valbuena said.

An undercover police officer posed on Valbuena's behalf as a middleman and recorded phone conversations between June and October, 2015 that helped identify the alleged blackmailers, according to prosecutors.

Benzema was recruited by the alleged blackmailers to encourage Valbuena to pay as his teammate stalled, they allege.

Among Benzema's co-accused are his childhood friend Karim Zenati, who allegedly acted as an intermediary, and Mustapha Zouaoui, one of the suspected architects of the scam.

Zouaoui told reporters he had received the sex tape and shared it with Benzema and other members of the French team, but said there had never been an attempt to extort money from Valbuena. "We kept the tape for ourselves," he said before the trial opened.

Benzema, who is accused of complicity to attempted blackmail, faces up to five years in jail and a 75,000 euro ($87,000) fine if convicted.

His four co-accused face charges of attempted blackmail.

France and Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema went on trial in absentia on Wednesday, charged with complicity in the attempted blackmail of former international team mate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape.

France and Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema went on trial in absentia on Wednesday, charged with complicity in the attempted blackmail of former international team mate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape. Prosecutors allege that Benzema, who has denied wrongdoing, encouraged Valbuena to pay a suspected group of blackmailers in order to keep the sexually explicit tape out of the public eye. They say Valbuena received a first call threatening to expose the tape in June, 2015 while at the French squad's training centre in Clairefontaine, west of Paris. Valbuena told the court in nearby Versailles on Wednesday that it was clear the caller wanted money, and that the blackmail attempt left him fearing for his career and place in the national squad. IN PICS | How much Cristiano Ronaldo earns per week? Mind-boggling salary of Manchester United star and his net worth Benzema was not in the court for the start of the trial because of professional obligations, said his lawyer, who has described the case against him as "absurd". The 33-year-old, who has played 92 times for his country and was recalled to the France squad for this year's European Championship, played in Ukraine on Tuesday night in his club's 5-0 Champions League group stage win over Shakhtar Donetsk. Benzema and Valbuena both lost their places in the national team in the wake of the scandal, dubbed the "sex tape affair". According to prosecutors, Valbuena's anonymous first caller said he wanted to "come to an arrangement" with Valbuena and told him to name an intermediary. ALSO READ | 'French footballer Kylian Mbappe will be godfather of one of the panda twins born at Beauval zoo The blackmailers initially turned to former French international Djibril Cisse to persuade Valbuena to pay the hush money. Instead, Cisse warned him of the extortion plot, Valbuena said. An undercover police officer posed on Valbuena's behalf as a middleman and recorded phone conversations between June and October, 2015 that helped identify the alleged blackmailers, according to prosecutors. Benzema was recruited by the alleged blackmailers to encourage Valbuena to pay as his teammate stalled, they allege. Among Benzema's co-accused are his childhood friend Karim Zenati, who allegedly acted as an intermediary, and Mustapha Zouaoui, one of the suspected architects of the scam. Zouaoui told reporters he had received the sex tape and shared it with Benzema and other members of the French team, but said there had never been an attempt to extort money from Valbuena. "We kept the tape for ourselves," he said before the trial opened. Benzema, who is accused of complicity to attempted blackmail, faces up to five years in jail and a 75,000 euro ($87,000) fine if convicted. His four co-accused face charges of attempted blackmail.

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema stands trial over sex tape affair

Real Madrid`s Karim Benzema netted a hat-trick as they capped their return to the refurbished Santiago Bernabeu stadium with a thrilling 5-2 comeback win over Celta Vigo in LaLiga on Sunday. 
 
The Frenchman was unplayable at times as Madrid were reunited with their fans for the first time since March 1, 2020. 
 
They played the whole of last season at reserve team Castilla`s Alfredo Di Stefano ground at their training complex. 
 
"I feel good, I`ve got the support of the coach, the president, the players and the crowd," Benzema said. 
 
"It`s a special night for us with the fans here and the atmosphere. It was a little strange to be playing in front of fans again, but they got right behind us. We need their support and they gave us everything today." 
 
The crowd were, however, stunned when Santi Mina latched onto a defensive mistake to put the visitors ahead after four minutes. 
 
Madrid recovered well, pinning Celta back, and the pressure eventually told after 24 minutes as Benzema equalised with his first goal following a Federico Valverde cutback. 
 
Franco Cervi put Celta back in front seven minutes later against the run of play from a lightning counter-attack and they went in ahead at the break. 
 
But Benzema, who had what he thought was an equaliser disallowed for offside just before halftime, headed Real level two minutes after the restart and from then on there was only going to be one winner. 
 
The forward teed up Vinicius Junior whose composed finish gave Carlo Ancelotti`s side the lead for the first time. 
 
New signing Eduardo Camavinga came off the bench to score on his debut, with the France midfielder tucking the ball home from close range, before Benzema completed his treble with a penalty three minutes from time to delight the returning home fans. 
 
Real had started the process of reforming their stadium just before the COVID-19 pandemic struck, modernising the ground and adding a retractable roof.

Real Madrid`s Karim Benzema netted a hat-trick as they capped their return to the refurbished Santiago Bernabeu stadium with a thrilling 5-2 comeback win over Celta Vigo in LaLiga on Sunday.

Real Madrid`s Karim Benzema netted a hat-trick as they capped their return to the refurbished Santiago Bernabeu stadium with a thrilling 5-2 comeback win over Celta Vigo in LaLiga on Sunday. The Frenchman was unplayable at times as Madrid were reunited with their fans for the first time since March 1, 2020. They played the whole of last season at reserve team Castilla`s Alfredo Di Stefano ground at their training complex. "I feel good, I`ve got the support of the coach, the president, the players and the crowd," Benzema said. "It`s a special night for us with the fans here and the atmosphere. It was a little strange to be playing in front of fans again, but they got right behind us. We need their support and they gave us everything today." The crowd were, however, stunned when Santi Mina latched onto a defensive mistake to put the visitors ahead after four minutes. Madrid recovered well, pinning Celta back, and the pressure eventually told after 24 minutes as Benzema equalised with his first goal following a Federico Valverde cutback. Franco Cervi put Celta back in front seven minutes later against the run of play from a lightning counter-attack and they went in ahead at the break. But Benzema, who had what he thought was an equaliser disallowed for offside just before halftime, headed Real level two minutes after the restart and from then on there was only going to be one winner. The forward teed up Vinicius Junior whose composed finish gave Carlo Ancelotti`s side the lead for the first time. New signing Eduardo Camavinga came off the bench to score on his debut, with the France midfielder tucking the ball home from close range, before Benzema completed his treble with a penalty three minutes from time to delight the returning home fans. Real had started the process of reforming their stadium just before the COVID-19 pandemic struck, modernising the ground and adding a retractable roof.

Benzema grabs treble as Real win seven-goal thriller on Bernabeu return

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti defended his club on Saturday following criticism from UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin this week.

Ceferin told German publication Der Spiegel that he would not mind if Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus - the three remaining clubs in the breakaway Super League project - were not part of UEFA.

He also criticised Real president Florentino Perez for claiming that European football clubs were in dire straits financially, before being linked with a 180 million euro ($212.65 million) bid for Paris St Germain forward Kylian Mbappe.

"I thought it was a bit strange that an organisation as important as UEFA spoke about the president of a 13-time Champions League winner like that," Ancelotti told a news conference.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-sneak-peek-into-cr7s-gorgeous-over-the-top-house-after-manchester-united-move-see-pics-412391">Cristiano Ronaldo: Sneak peek into CR7's gorgeous over-the-top house after Manchester United move - see pics</a>

"If the president of a 13-time Champions League winning club is incompetent, what does that make everyone else?"

Ancelotti also said that the club's South American contingent, who only arrived back on Spanish soil on Friday, would be available for selection against Celta Vigo on Sunday despite playing in CONMEBOL's extended international window.

"They came back yesterday (Friday) and have trained a bit. They won't have any issues in playing," he said.

"I'll talk to them, and if any of them are tired then they won't play, but it seems like they haven't had any issues and the travel hasn't taken it out on them either."

Ancelotti will be without Toni Kroos (pubis) and Dani Ceballos (ankle) for the LaLiga clash, while Ferland Mendy is unlikely to feature as he recovers from a tibia problem.

Luka Modric and Nacho Fernandez will, however, be fit for the visit of the Galician side.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti defended his club on Saturday following criticism from UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin this week. Ceferin told German publication Der Spiegel that he would not mind if Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus - the three remaining clubs in the breakaway Super League project - were not part of UEFA.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti defended his club on Saturday following criticism from UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin this week. Ceferin told German publication Der Spiegel that he would not mind if Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus - the three remaining clubs in the breakaway Super League project - were not part of UEFA. He also criticised Real president Florentino Perez for claiming that European football clubs were in dire straits financially, before being linked with a 180 million euro ($212.65 million) bid for Paris St Germain forward Kylian Mbappe. "I thought it was a bit strange that an organisation as important as UEFA spoke about the president of a 13-time Champions League winner like that," Ancelotti told a news conference. ALSO READ | Cristiano Ronaldo: Sneak peek into CR7's gorgeous over-the-top house after Manchester United move - see pics "If the president of a 13-time Champions League winning club is incompetent, what does that make everyone else?" Ancelotti also said that the club's South American contingent, who only arrived back on Spanish soil on Friday, would be available for selection against Celta Vigo on Sunday despite playing in CONMEBOL's extended international window. "They came back yesterday (Friday) and have trained a bit. They won't have any issues in playing," he said. "I'll talk to them, and if any of them are tired then they won't play, but it seems like they haven't had any issues and the travel hasn't taken it out on them either." Ancelotti will be without Toni Kroos (pubis) and Dani Ceballos (ankle) for the LaLiga clash, while Ferland Mendy is unlikely to feature as he recovers from a tibia problem. Luka Modric and Nacho Fernandez will, however, be fit for the visit of the Galician side.

Carlo Ancelotti hits back at UEFA president following Real Madrid criticism

Real Madrid are pretty adamant to sign French star Kylian Mbappe as they have offered €170m (£146m) for the player to Paris-Saint Germain after their previous bid got rejected by the Ligue 1 giants, as per Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-likely-to-submit-bid-for-juventus-superstar-cristiano-ronaldo-reports-408699" hreflang="en">Manchester City likely to submit bid for Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo: Reports</a>

Previously, the LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has rejected the offer for the 22-year-old terming it "not sufficient".&nbsp;

PSG's sporting director Leonardo told BFM and RMC Sport, saying the offer was “not sufficient”.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Official bid from Real Madrid for Kylian Mbappé still on the table. €170m plus €10m and this will be the final one. Negotiations will take place today between PSG and Real. ⚪️🇫🇷 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RealMadrid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RealMadrid</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mbapp%C3%A9?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mbappé</a> 
 
Real Madrid know that Mbappé is pushing. He only wants Real Madrid. Patience. <a href="https://t.co/FOj231gw6J">pic.twitter.com/FOj231gw6J</a>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1431015068335026181?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Leonardo also added that PSG's goal is to extend Mbappe's stay with the club and if he wants to leave the club it should be on their terms.&nbsp;

“Kylian Mbappé feels like leaving, this seems clear to me … Our goal is to extend and keep him. If a player wants to leave it must be under our terms. This applies not just to Kylian but to all players.”

Leonardo did not confirm the figure of €160m but said the bid was “around that”. “We consider the offer as being very far from what Kylian is worth today,” he added.

Kylian Mbappe is set to run out of contract with the club and has refused to sign to extend his stay with PSG.&nbsp;

Mbappe has scored 133 goals in just 174 games for the club in all competitions. He joined PSG from Monaco on an initial season-long loan in 2017 and was signed permanently for £165.7 million a year later.&nbsp;

Earlier, PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi will be willing to let go of Mbappe if his £171m (€200m) valuation is met.&nbsp;

Real Madrid are pretty adamant to sign French star Kylian Mbappe as they have offered €170m (£146m) for the player to Paris-Saint Germain after their previous bid got rejected by the Ligue 1 giants, as per Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.

Real Madrid are pretty adamant to sign French star Kylian Mbappe as they have offered €170m (£146m) for the player to Paris-Saint Germain after their previous bid got rejected by the Ligue 1 giants, as per Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. ALSO READ: Manchester City likely to submit bid for Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo: Reports Previously, the LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has rejected the offer for the 22-year-old terming it "not sufficient". PSG's sporting director Leonardo told BFM and RMC Sport, saying the offer was “not sufficient”. Official bid from Real Madrid for Kylian Mbappé still on the table. €170m plus €10m and this will be the final one. Negotiations will take place today between PSG and Real. ⚪️🇫🇷 #RealMadrid #Mbappé Real Madrid know that Mbappé is pushing. He only wants Real Madrid. Patience. pic.twitter.com/FOj231gw6J — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 26, 2021 × Leonardo also added that PSG's goal is to extend Mbappe's stay with the club and if he wants to leave the club it should be on their terms. “Kylian Mbappé feels like leaving, this seems clear to me … Our goal is to extend and keep him. If a player wants to leave it must be under our terms. This applies not just to Kylian but to all players.” Leonardo did not confirm the figure of €160m but said the bid was “around that”. “We consider the offer as being very far from what Kylian is worth today,” he added. Kylian Mbappe is set to run out of contract with the club and has refused to sign to extend his stay with PSG. Mbappe has scored 133 goals in just 174 games for the club in all competitions. He joined PSG from Monaco on an initial season-long loan in 2017 and was signed permanently for £165.7 million a year later. Earlier, PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi will be willing to let go of Mbappe if his £171m (€200m) valuation is met.

La Liga giants Real Madrid places new bid for PSG star Kylian Mbappe: Reports

Paris Saint-Germain received a massive bid from Real Madrid for their young superstar Kylian Mbappe. The LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has&nbsp;rejected the offer for the 22-year-old.&nbsp;

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PSG's sporting director Leonardo told BFM and RMC Sport, saying the offer was “not sufficient”.&nbsp;

Leonardo also added that PSG's goal is to extend Mbappe's stay with the club and if he wants to leave the club it should be on their terms.&nbsp;

“Kylian Mbappé feels like leaving, this seems clear to me … Our goal is to extend and keep him. If a player wants to leave it must be under our terms. This applies not just to Kylian but to all players.”

Leonardo did not confirm the figure of €160m but said the bid was “around that”. “We consider the offer as being very far from what Kylian is worth today,” he added.

Kylian Mbappe is set to run out of contract with the club and has refused to sign to extend his stay with PSG.&nbsp;

Mbappe has scored 133 goals in just 174 games for the club in all competitions. He joined PSG from Monaco on an initial season-long loan in 2017 and was signed permanently for £165.7 million a year later.&nbsp;

According to reports, PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi will be willing to let go of Mbappe if his £171m (€200m) valuation is met.&nbsp;

Recently, football star Lionel Messi joined the club after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG with the option of an additional year.

The move will add the Argentine, one of the best players of his generation, to an already formidable PSG attack that includes Brazil's Neymar and French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe.

Paris Saint-Germain received a massive bid from Real Madrid for their young superstar Kylian Mbappe. The LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has rejected the offer for the 22-year-old.

Paris Saint-Germain received a massive bid from Real Madrid for their young superstar Kylian Mbappe. The LaLiga giants had reportedly offered £137 million (€160 million), however, the French club has rejected the offer for the 22-year-old. ALSO READ: Pep Guardiola set to leave Manchester City in 2023 PSG's sporting director Leonardo told BFM and RMC Sport, saying the offer was “not sufficient”. Leonardo also added that PSG's goal is to extend Mbappe's stay with the club and if he wants to leave the club it should be on their terms. “Kylian Mbappé feels like leaving, this seems clear to me … Our goal is to extend and keep him. If a player wants to leave it must be under our terms. This applies not just to Kylian but to all players.” Leonardo did not confirm the figure of €160m but said the bid was “around that”. “We consider the offer as being very far from what Kylian is worth today,” he added. Kylian Mbappe is set to run out of contract with the club and has refused to sign to extend his stay with PSG. Mbappe has scored 133 goals in just 174 games for the club in all competitions. He joined PSG from Monaco on an initial season-long loan in 2017 and was signed permanently for £165.7 million a year later. According to reports, PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi will be willing to let go of Mbappe if his £171m (€200m) valuation is met. Recently, football star Lionel Messi joined the club after ending 21-year ties with Barcelona. The 34-year-old superstar signed a two-year deal with PSG with the option of an additional year. The move will add the Argentine, one of the best players of his generation, to an already formidable PSG attack that includes Brazil's Neymar and French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe.

'Not sufficient': Paris Saint-Germain reject Real Madrid's massive bid for Kylian Mbappe

Real Madrid`s Uruguay midfielder Federico Valverde has signed a contract extension to 2027, the Spanish club said on Tuesday. 
 
No financial details were given in Real`s statement https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2021/08/24/valverde-signs-contract-renewal-until-2027 but media reports said the 23-year-old`s new contract contained a 1 billion euro ($1.18 billion) release clause. 
 
Valverde, who was already tied to the club until 2025, joined Real from Penarol in 2016. 
 
He is the latest in a line of key Real players to agree extended contracts, with France forward Karim Benzema last week signing a new deal to 2023.

Real Madrid`s Uruguay midfielder Federico Valverde has signed a contract extension to 2027, the Spanish club said on Tuesday. No financial details were given in Real`s statement https://www.

Real Madrid`s Uruguay midfielder Federico Valverde has signed a contract extension to 2027, the Spanish club said on Tuesday. No financial details were given in Real`s statement https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2021/08/24/valverde-signs-contract-renewal-until-2027 but media reports said the 23-year-old`s new contract contained a 1 billion euro ($1.18 billion) release clause. Valverde, who was already tied to the club until 2025, joined Real from Penarol in 2016. He is the latest in a line of key Real players to agree extended contracts, with France forward Karim Benzema last week signing a new deal to 2023.

Real Madrid's Federico Valverde signs contract extension to 2027

Barcelona joined rivals Real Madrid&nbsp;on Thursday in denouncing a proposed multi-billion-dollar investment and revenue-sharing deal between Spain's top soccer league, La Liga, and private equity firm CVC. 
 
The statement came in the aftermath of the club announcing all-time top scorer Lionel Messi would leave the Camp Nou after 18 years due to financial constraints put on them by La Liga. [L1N2PC2AX] 
 
The Spanish football league on Wednesday announced that CVC would inject 2.7 billion euros ($3.2 billion) into La Liga in exchange for 10% of its revenue and a 10% stake in most of its business, with 90% of the injection going to clubs.

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"FC Barcelona considers that the operation that has been announced has not been sufficiently discussed with the clubs (the owners of the TV rights); that the amount is not congruent with the years of duration, and the deal affects part of all clubs'&nbsp;audiovisual rights for the next 50 years," a club statement read. 
 
"The terms of the contract that La Liga is describing condemn Barcelona’s future with regard to broadcasting rights. 
 
"FC Barcelona wishes to express its surprise at an agreement driven by LaLiga in which the teams’ opinions, including those of FC Barcelona, have not been taken into account. 
 
"There has not even been a presentation of options offered by other competitors in order to evaluate the pros and cons in a post-pandemic situation in which there are still many questions that are left unanswered." 
 
Barca, along with Real and Juventus of Italy, remain wedded to the ill-fated European Super League idea that was announced earlier this year, but collapsed after fan backlash as nine of the 12 founder clubs pulled out. 
 
The Spanish football league's Executive Committee, which includes the bosses of Atletico Madrid and Sevilla but not those of Real or Barca, approved the planned CVC deal on Wednesday and it will now be put to a vote by all league members from the top two divisions.

Barcelona joined rivals Real Madrid on Thursday in denouncing a proposed multi-billion-dollar investment and revenue-sharing deal between Spain's top soccer league, La Liga, and private equity firm CVC.

Barcelona joined rivals Real Madrid on Thursday in denouncing a proposed multi-billion-dollar investment and revenue-sharing deal between Spain's top soccer league, La Liga, and private equity firm CVC. The statement came in the aftermath of the club announcing all-time top scorer Lionel Messi would leave the Camp Nou after 18 years due to financial constraints put on them by La Liga. [L1N2PC2AX] The Spanish football league on Wednesday announced that CVC would inject 2.7 billion euros ($3.2 billion) into La Liga in exchange for 10% of its revenue and a 10% stake in most of its business, with 90% of the injection going to clubs. ALSO READ | Lionel Messi to leave Barcelona due to 'financial and structural obstacles', says club "FC Barcelona considers that the operation that has been announced has not been sufficiently discussed with the clubs (the owners of the TV rights); that the amount is not congruent with the years of duration, and the deal affects part of all clubs' audiovisual rights for the next 50 years," a club statement read. "The terms of the contract that La Liga is describing condemn Barcelona’s future with regard to broadcasting rights. "FC Barcelona wishes to express its surprise at an agreement driven by LaLiga in which the teams’ opinions, including those of FC Barcelona, have not been taken into account. "There has not even been a presentation of options offered by other competitors in order to evaluate the pros and cons in a post-pandemic situation in which there are still many questions that are left unanswered." Barca, along with Real and Juventus of Italy, remain wedded to the ill-fated European Super League idea that was announced earlier this year, but collapsed after fan backlash as nine of the 12 founder clubs pulled out. The Spanish football league's Executive Committee, which includes the bosses of Atletico Madrid and Sevilla but not those of Real or Barca, approved the planned CVC deal on Wednesday and it will now be put to a vote by all league members from the top two divisions.

Football: Barcelona join Real Madrid in rejecting La Liga's proposed CVC investment

Zinedine Zidane has heaped praise on Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos. The previous Los Blancos manager's message followed Sergio Ramos affirming his exit from the club he joined as a 19-year-old.&nbsp;

Zinedine Zidane took to Instagram to send a salutary message to Sergio Ramos following an incredible vocation for both Real Madrid and Spain's public group. In his post, the Frenchman viewed Ramos as perhaps the best skipper in the game.

He wrote: "LEGEND. It was a great pleasure and honor to have you as a partner and player! A great Captain for history! Thank you so much for everything."

Zinedine Zidane was a Real Madrid player when Sergio Ramos joined Real Madrid back in 2005. Nonetheless, the pair partook in more achievement together during Zinedine Zidane's administrative vocation at Real Madrid. In his two spells as Los Blancos, manager, the Frenchman, and club skipper Sergio Ramos won three sequential Champions Leagues, two La Liga titles, two UEFA Super Cups, and two FIFA Club World Cups.&nbsp;

It hasn't been the best beginning to the late spring for Real Madrid. The club has now lost two legends in no time. Zidane was the first to leave the Santiago Bernabeu in the wake of completing second in La Liga, behind city-rivals Atletico Madrid. Zidane has been supplanted by another returning chief in Italian Carlo Ancelotti for the 2021-22 season.&nbsp;

This week, the club bid farewell to their skipper Sergio Ramos. The 35-year-old safeguard couldn't go to a concurrence with the Real Madrid chain of command over another arrangement and now leaves the club as a free specialist in the wake of expenditure 16 seasons in the Spanish capital.&nbsp;

Real Madrid could likewise lose their other productive center-back this mid-year. Raphael Varane is as of now connected with a transition to Manchester United and has only one year staying on his agreement. Be that as it may, Real Madrid is supposedly set to propose a drawn-out bargain for Raphael Varane.

Zinedine Zidane has heaped praise on Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos. The previous Los Blancos manager's message followed Sergio Ramos affirming his exit from the club he joined as a 19-year-old.

Zinedine Zidane has heaped praise on Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos. The previous Los Blancos manager's message followed Sergio Ramos affirming his exit from the club he joined as a 19-year-old. Zinedine Zidane took to Instagram to send a salutary message to Sergio Ramos following an incredible vocation for both Real Madrid and Spain's public group. In his post, the Frenchman viewed Ramos as perhaps the best skipper in the game. He wrote: "LEGEND. It was a great pleasure and honor to have you as a partner and player! A great Captain for history! Thank you so much for everything." Zinedine Zidane was a Real Madrid player when Sergio Ramos joined Real Madrid back in 2005. Nonetheless, the pair partook in more achievement together during Zinedine Zidane's administrative vocation at Real Madrid. In his two spells as Los Blancos, manager, the Frenchman, and club skipper Sergio Ramos won three sequential Champions Leagues, two La Liga titles, two UEFA Super Cups, and two FIFA Club World Cups. It hasn't been the best beginning to the late spring for Real Madrid. The club has now lost two legends in no time. Zidane was the first to leave the Santiago Bernabeu in the wake of completing second in La Liga, behind city-rivals Atletico Madrid. Zidane has been supplanted by another returning chief in Italian Carlo Ancelotti for the 2021-22 season. This week, the club bid farewell to their skipper Sergio Ramos. The 35-year-old safeguard couldn't go to a concurrence with the Real Madrid chain of command over another arrangement and now leaves the club as a free specialist in the wake of expenditure 16 seasons in the Spanish capital. Real Madrid could likewise lose their other productive center-back this mid-year. Raphael Varane is as of now connected with a transition to Manchester United and has only one year staying on his agreement. Be that as it may, Real Madrid is supposedly set to propose a drawn-out bargain for Raphael Varane.

Football: It was an honour to work with 'great captain' Sergio Ramos, says Zinedine Zidane

Real Madrid player Eden Hazard has come out and communicated his longing to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu and battle for this spot in the beginning XI. The 30-year-old winger has had a physical issue loaded time at Real Madrid since the time he left Chelsea for a cosmic charge of £103 million.&nbsp;

Be that as it may, Eden Hazard is quick to show his actual potential to the Real Madrid fans whenever they are permitted back inside the Santiago Bernabeu. He likewise trusts that his time in Spain isn't finished and won't leave Madrid as a failure.&nbsp;

In a conversation with&nbsp;Het Nieuwsblad, Eden Hazard said:&nbsp; "It didn't occur to me for a second that it would be better for me to leave. I won't leave there as a failure. I only want to show that I'm made for Real Madrid. The last two years have been difficult, I've been at Madrid without really being at Madrid, you know... We've played in a stadium without fans, and I signed to play at a full Bernabeu."

Hazard has said he can possibly make the most of his football on the off chance that he is sans injury, which hasn't been the situation since joining Real Madrid. The 30-year-old has confronted a great deal of analysis in regards to his demonstrable skill from the Los Blancos devoted.

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In any case, Hazard accepts that getting back from numerous injuries is troublesome. He added:&nbsp;

"I'm only myself when I can enjoy myself on the pitch. That hasn't happened in the last two years at Madrid. If you have one or two injuries you can flip the switch, you recover to come back stronger, but if it's five, six, seven it's much more difficult mentally. But I keep going."

Eden Hazard will work under new manager Carlo Ancelotti when he gets back to Real Madrid from Euro 2020. Carlo Ancelotti has effectively lauded the Belgian&nbsp;and that he may have a more promising time to come under the new manager. At his divulging as Real Madrid supervisor, Carlo Ancelotti said:&nbsp;"He's a top player. He's had problems, the first season he had an important injury... this could be the year for him to reach his potential."

Real Madrid player Eden Hazard has come out and communicated his longing to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu and battle for this spot in the beginning XI. The 30-year-old winger has had a physical issue loaded time at Real Madrid since the time he left Chelsea for a cosmic charge of £103 million.

Real Madrid player Eden Hazard has come out and communicated his longing to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu and battle for this spot in the beginning XI. The 30-year-old winger has had a physical issue loaded time at Real Madrid since the time he left Chelsea for a cosmic charge of £103 million. Be that as it may, Eden Hazard is quick to show his actual potential to the Real Madrid fans whenever they are permitted back inside the Santiago Bernabeu. He likewise trusts that his time in Spain isn't finished and won't leave Madrid as a failure. In a conversation with Het Nieuwsblad, Eden Hazard said: "It didn't occur to me for a second that it would be better for me to leave. I won't leave there as a failure. I only want to show that I'm made for Real Madrid. The last two years have been difficult, I've been at Madrid without really being at Madrid, you know... We've played in a stadium without fans, and I signed to play at a full Bernabeu." Hazard has said he can possibly make the most of his football on the off chance that he is sans injury, which hasn't been the situation since joining Real Madrid. The 30-year-old has confronted a great deal of analysis in regards to his demonstrable skill from the Los Blancos devoted. ALSO READ: Football: 'He was gone...' - Denmark team doctor confirms Christian Eriksen suffered 'cardiac arrest' In any case, Hazard accepts that getting back from numerous injuries is troublesome. He added: "I'm only myself when I can enjoy myself on the pitch. That hasn't happened in the last two years at Madrid. If you have one or two injuries you can flip the switch, you recover to come back stronger, but if it's five, six, seven it's much more difficult mentally. But I keep going." Eden Hazard will work under new manager Carlo Ancelotti when he gets back to Real Madrid from Euro 2020. Carlo Ancelotti has effectively lauded the Belgian and that he may have a more promising time to come under the new manager. At his divulging as Real Madrid supervisor, Carlo Ancelotti said: "He's a top player. He's had problems, the first season he had an important injury... this could be the year for him to reach his potential."

Football: I won't leave Real Madrid as a 'failure' - Eden Hazard

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois trusts that Eden Hazard will '10 per cent' stay at the club past the impending summer transfer window.&nbsp;

The Real Madrid winger has had two irksome, injury-raze seasons. He has simply had the option to show up for Los Blancos, scoring five goals and eight assists. Subsequently, bits of gossip about a potential exit have been getting out and about.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, Eden Hazard and Real Madrid's&nbsp;colleague Thibaut Courtois believes Hazard will remain at the club. The goalkeeper likewise added that Hazard would not like to leave Real Madrid, in opposition to what the 'Madrid press' reports about him.&nbsp;

However, Hazard's Belgium and Real Madrid teammate Thibaut Courtois believes the 30-year-old will stay at the club. The goalkeeper also added that Hazard doesn't want to leave Real Madrid, contrary to what the 'Madrid press' reports about him.

In an interview with Le Soir Thibaut Courtois said: "I'm 100 per cent&nbsp;sure he's staying. He doesn't want to move. Only the Madrid press writes about the desire to leave. He wants to continue, play free of injuries and win titles" - he said.

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At Real Madrid, there is criticism all the time and for everyone. Gareth Bale was criticized, but he won the Champions League and scored a double in the final in Kyiv.

"We all know that in Madrid there is pressure and criticism from the press and the fans. But Eden can handle that. I know him well enough to say it. He can still change everything. He still wants to be an important player for Madrid and win titles" - he added.

With Carlo Ancelotti assuming control over Real Madrid's manager situation from Zinedine Zidane, Eden Hazard has one more freedom to demonstrate his qualifications at the club.&nbsp;

The winger as of late conceded that Carlo Ancelotti's arrangement is 'uplifting news' for him as he anticipates playing under the Italian strategist.&nbsp;

"Everyone at Real Madrid knows what Ancelotti has brought to the club. He won the Champions League with this group and he knows a lot of the players. We know that he is a coach with a lot of experience" - he said.

"He knows the city and the fans. I think we can do great things together. I don't know him personally, but from what I've heard of him he's a very nice person who just wants to win, and that's what we all want. We'll have the chance to work together. It's good news for me" - he added

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois trusts that Eden Hazard will '10 per cent' stay at the club past the impending summer transfer window. The Real Madrid winger has had two irksome, injury-raze seasons.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois trusts that Eden Hazard will '10 per cent' stay at the club past the impending summer transfer window. The Real Madrid winger has had two irksome, injury-raze seasons. He has simply had the option to show up for Los Blancos, scoring five goals and eight assists. Subsequently, bits of gossip about a potential exit have been getting out and about. Nonetheless, Eden Hazard and Real Madrid's colleague Thibaut Courtois believes Hazard will remain at the club. The goalkeeper likewise added that Hazard would not like to leave Real Madrid, in opposition to what the 'Madrid press' reports about him. However, Hazard's Belgium and Real Madrid teammate Thibaut Courtois believes the 30-year-old will stay at the club. The goalkeeper also added that Hazard doesn't want to leave Real Madrid, contrary to what the 'Madrid press' reports about him. In an interview with Le Soir Thibaut Courtois said: "I'm 100 per cent sure he's staying. He doesn't want to move. Only the Madrid press writes about the desire to leave. He wants to continue, play free of injuries and win titles" - he said. ALSO READ: Football: N'Golo Kante deserves to win Ballon d'Or, says Paul Pogba At Real Madrid, there is criticism all the time and for everyone. Gareth Bale was criticized, but he won the Champions League and scored a double in the final in Kyiv. "We all know that in Madrid there is pressure and criticism from the press and the fans. But Eden can handle that. I know him well enough to say it. He can still change everything. He still wants to be an important player for Madrid and win titles" - he added. With Carlo Ancelotti assuming control over Real Madrid's manager situation from Zinedine Zidane, Eden Hazard has one more freedom to demonstrate his qualifications at the club. The winger as of late conceded that Carlo Ancelotti's arrangement is 'uplifting news' for him as he anticipates playing under the Italian strategist. "Everyone at Real Madrid knows what Ancelotti has brought to the club. He won the Champions League with this group and he knows a lot of the players. We know that he is a coach with a lot of experience" - he said. "He knows the city and the fans. I think we can do great things together. I don't know him personally, but from what I've heard of him he's a very nice person who just wants to win, and that's what we all want. We'll have the chance to work together. It's good news for me" - he added

Football: Eden Hazard will 100% stay at Real Madrid - Thibaut Courtois

&nbsp;Wales forward Gareth Bale has said he expects to discuss his future at Spanish giants Real Madrid with the team's new manager Carlo Ancelotti after the European Championship starts this month.

Bale is supposed to return to Madrid following a season-long loan spell at English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur but with one year left on his contract at the La Liga team, media speculation about his future has increased in recent weeks.

Ancelotti, who left Everton this week and returned to Madrid for a second spell as coach, was in charge when they signed Bale in 2013 and enjoys a good relationship with the 31-year-old.

"I know Carlo's returned and I get on with him really well, and I'm not denying that, but I'm just concentrating on now," Bale told Sky Sports.

"I'm sure I'll have a conversation with him at some point and I'll go from there when that happens. As soon as the Euros finishes then I'll go from there."

Bale won the first of his four Champions League titles under Italian Ancelotti in 2014 and described the manager as a "great guy."

"We had a great time together at Real, I'm sure he's going to be amazing in charge there," Bale added. "I spoke to him when we played Everton at the start of the season, we hugged and had a little chat which was nice.

"But I'm still in the same boat and haven't thought about it too much. I'm concentrated on our preparation and what's going to happen in the Euros. I'll sort the rest of it after."

Wales, who take on Albania in a friendly later on Saturday, begin their Euro 2020 campaign against Switzerland on June 12.

Wales forward Gareth Bale has said he expects to discuss his future at Spanish giants Real Madrid with the team's new manager Carlo Ancelotti after the European Championship starts this month.

Wales forward Gareth Bale has said he expects to discuss his future at Spanish giants Real Madrid with the team's new manager Carlo Ancelotti after the European Championship starts this month. Bale is supposed to return to Madrid following a season-long loan spell at English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur but with one year left on his contract at the La Liga team, media speculation about his future has increased in recent weeks. Ancelotti, who left Everton this week and returned to Madrid for a second spell as coach, was in charge when they signed Bale in 2013 and enjoys a good relationship with the 31-year-old. "I know Carlo's returned and I get on with him really well, and I'm not denying that, but I'm just concentrating on now," Bale told Sky Sports. "I'm sure I'll have a conversation with him at some point and I'll go from there when that happens. As soon as the Euros finishes then I'll go from there." Bale won the first of his four Champions League titles under Italian Ancelotti in 2014 and described the manager as a "great guy." "We had a great time together at Real, I'm sure he's going to be amazing in charge there," Bale added. "I spoke to him when we played Everton at the start of the season, we hugged and had a little chat which was nice. "But I'm still in the same boat and haven't thought about it too much. I'm concentrated on our preparation and what's going to happen in the Euros. I'll sort the rest of it after." Wales, who take on Albania in a friendly later on Saturday, begin their Euro 2020 campaign against Switzerland on June 12.

Football: Bale to discuss Real Madrid future with Ancelotti after Euro 2020

Carlo Ancelotti has returned to Real Madrid as head coach for a second spell on Tuesday after Zinedine Zidane resigned from the position last month. Previously, the Italian coach managed the Los Blancos side between 2013 and 2015.&nbsp;

Ancelotti left Premier League club Everton to re-join his former side (Real Madrid) on a three-year deal.&nbsp;

“While I have enjoyed being at Everton I have been presented with an unexpected opportunity which I believe is the right move for me and my family at this time,” Ancelotti said in a statement on the Everton website.

In his previous spell with Real Madrid, Ancelotti led the Spanish giants to 'La Decima', which means the 10th European Championship in 2014.&nbsp;

He has won the European Cup or Champions League on three occasions, having also led AC Milan to glory in 2003 and 2007.

"Carlo Ancelotti will be the new first team coach for the next three seasons," a brief Real Madrid statement read.

Zinedine Zidane penned down an emotional letter to fans before leaving Real.&nbsp;

He said:&nbsp;"For more than 20 years, from the first day I arrived in Madrid and wore the white shirt, you’ve shown me your love. I’ve always felt that there was something special between us. "I have now decided to leave and I want to properly explain the reasons. I’m going, but I’m not jumping overboard, nor am I tired of coaching. In May 2018 I left because after two and a half years, with so many victories and so many trophies, I felt the team needed a new approach to stay at the very highest level. Right now, things are different. I’m leaving because I feel the club no longer has the faith in me I need, nor the support to build something in the medium or long term.”

Carlo Ancelotti has returned to Real Madrid as head coach for a second spell on Tuesday after Zinedine Zidane resigned from the position last month. Previously, the Italian coach managed the Los Blancos side between 2013 and 2015.

Carlo Ancelotti has returned to Real Madrid as head coach for a second spell on Tuesday after Zinedine Zidane resigned from the position last month. Previously, the Italian coach managed the Los Blancos side between 2013 and 2015. Ancelotti left Premier League club Everton to re-join his former side (Real Madrid) on a three-year deal. “While I have enjoyed being at Everton I have been presented with an unexpected opportunity which I believe is the right move for me and my family at this time,” Ancelotti said in a statement on the Everton website. In his previous spell with Real Madrid, Ancelotti led the Spanish giants to 'La Decima', which means the 10th European Championship in 2014. He has won the European Cup or Champions League on three occasions, having also led AC Milan to glory in 2003 and 2007. "Carlo Ancelotti will be the new first team coach for the next three seasons," a brief Real Madrid statement read. Zinedine Zidane penned down an emotional letter to fans before leaving Real. He said: "For more than 20 years, from the first day I arrived in Madrid and wore the white shirt, you’ve shown me your love. I’ve always felt that there was something special between us. "I have now decided to leave and I want to properly explain the reasons. I’m going, but I’m not jumping overboard, nor am I tired of coaching. In May 2018 I left because after two and a half years, with so many victories and so many trophies, I felt the team needed a new approach to stay at the very highest level. Right now, things are different. I’m leaving because I feel the club no longer has the faith in me I need, nor the support to build something in the medium or long term.”

Football: Carlo Ancelotti re-joins Real Madrid on a three-year deal

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin opened up on a joint statement conveyed by Real Madrid, Juventus, and Barcelona following the European Super League catastrophe.

In a&nbsp;statement, the three groups who are yet part&nbsp;of the ESL have come out and talked about their aims to play in the Champions League.&nbsp;

As indicated by Aleksander Ceferin, it is an abnormal choice to play in the two competitions without a moment's delay. Addressing Sky Sports Italia, Aleksander Ceferin said:&nbsp;

"For me what is strange is that you publish you are still part of the Super League and then you send a letter applying to play in the Champions League. So you are in Super League but play Champions League. It's quite hard to understand what they mean."

Ceferin has proposed that these groups look for a gathering with UEFA first.&nbsp;

"They should call us, send us a letter, ask for a meeting. They just sent some press releases saying they want to have a dialogue. It's quite a strange approach."

Real Madrid, Juventus, and Barcelona are the lone 3 sides to in any case be a piece of the European Super League. The best six Premier League sides, alongside Inter Milan, AC Milan, and Atletico Madrid, pulled out of the competition following a reaction from fans and media the same.&nbsp;

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has affirmed that Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus will all face disciplinary action in the event that they actually persevere with the possibility of the European Super League. In any case, in an interview with Sky Sports Italia, he didn't make reference to what disciplinary activity the clubs would confront.

Ceferin added:&nbsp;"Our disciplinary committee is independent so the moment they start to work on a case, I don't have a reach or information there. I don't know when, if or how the sanctions would be."

Ceferin has additionally demanded that they are not hesitant to prosecute the matter.

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"We are not afraid of those things. If the courts decide one way or another we have to be honest and work for football, which those clubs are not."

He believes that Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Juventus are contending in the European Super League for their own advantage and it won't improve football in any capacity. Aleksander Ceferin has blamed the three clubs for 'paralyzing' European football because of their eagerness.&nbsp;

Notwithstanding, Real Madrid, alongside Juventus and Barcelona, delivered a joint explanation blaming UEFA for 'flagrant breach of the decision of the courts of justice'.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is a major promoter of the European Super League, which implies that the discussion encompassing the breakaway group isn't kicking the bucket at any point in the near future. 
&nbsp;

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin opened up on a joint statement conveyed by Real Madrid, Juventus, and Barcelona following the European Super League catastrophe.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin opened up on a joint statement conveyed by Real Madrid, Juventus, and Barcelona following the European Super League catastrophe. In a statement, the three groups who are yet part of the ESL have come out and talked about their aims to play in the Champions League. As indicated by Aleksander Ceferin, it is an abnormal choice to play in the two competitions without a moment's delay. Addressing Sky Sports Italia, Aleksander Ceferin said: "For me what is strange is that you publish you are still part of the Super League and then you send a letter applying to play in the Champions League. So you are in Super League but play Champions League. It's quite hard to understand what they mean." Ceferin has proposed that these groups look for a gathering with UEFA first. "They should call us, send us a letter, ask for a meeting. They just sent some press releases saying they want to have a dialogue. It's quite a strange approach." Real Madrid, Juventus, and Barcelona are the lone 3 sides to in any case be a piece of the European Super League. The best six Premier League sides, alongside Inter Milan, AC Milan, and Atletico Madrid, pulled out of the competition following a reaction from fans and media the same. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has affirmed that Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus will all face disciplinary action in the event that they actually persevere with the possibility of the European Super League. In any case, in an interview with Sky Sports Italia, he didn't make reference to what disciplinary activity the clubs would confront. Ceferin added: "Our disciplinary committee is independent so the moment they start to work on a case, I don't have a reach or information there. I don't know when, if or how the sanctions would be." Ceferin has additionally demanded that they are not hesitant to prosecute the matter. ALSO READ: Football: Chelsea fans in Porto overjoyed after club crowned as European champions! "We are not afraid of those things. If the courts decide one way or another we have to be honest and work for football, which those clubs are not." He believes that Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Juventus are contending in the European Super League for their own advantage and it won't improve football in any capacity. Aleksander Ceferin has blamed the three clubs for 'paralyzing' European football because of their eagerness. Notwithstanding, Real Madrid, alongside Juventus and Barcelona, delivered a joint explanation blaming UEFA for 'flagrant breach of the decision of the courts of justice'. Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is a major promoter of the European Super League, which implies that the discussion encompassing the breakaway group isn't kicking the bucket at any point in the near future.

Football: Barcelona, Juventus, and Real Madrid have 'paralysed themselves' - Aleksander Ceferin

Football fans took to Twitter as they expressed their opinions following Zinedine Zidane's open letter to supporters after leaving his role as the manager of Real Madrid. Zidane, in his letter, accused Los Blancos president Florentino Perez of lacking respect.&nbsp;

On the first day of June 2009, Zinedine Zidane strolled into an advisory role&nbsp;in the workplace of Florentino Perez, manager of Real Madrid. In November of the next year, he was designated as an adviser to Madrid's first group on the proposal of then Real Madrid manager, Jose Mourinho.

From brandishing director in 2011 to assistant mentor to Carlo Ancelotti in 2013 to the coach of Madrid's B group in 2014 and to being selected head coach of Real Madrid in January 2016, Zinedine Zidane's managerial career was an exciting ride, yet one focused on his previous club as he deliberately scrambled up from the lower part of the evolved way of life to the top.&nbsp;

It was new surrounding factors for him, strange waters, even, yet Zinedine Zidane was able to show the world that he actually got that sorcery wand he generally waved around on the field as a player. He was all set to compose another fantasy, yet this time around he was able to do it from the hole and, likely this time as well, do it with a glad consummation on the cards.&nbsp;

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In an open letter to the Real Madrid fans he said:

"For more than 20 years, from the first day I arrived in Madrid and wore the white shirt, you’ve shown me your love. I’ve always felt that there was something special between us.&nbsp;"I have now decided to leave and I want to properly explain the reasons. I’m going, but I’m not jumping overboard, nor am I tired of coaching. In May 2018 I left because after two and a half years, with so many victories and so many trophies, I felt the team needed a new approach to stay at the very highest level. Right now, things are different. I’m leaving because I feel the club no longer has the faith in me I need, nor the support to build something in the medium or long term.”

Regarded as one of the most decorated Real Madrid managers in history, the 48-year-old Frenchman won three Champions League trophies, two Club World Cups, two UEFA Super Cups, two Spanish Super Cups, and two LaLiga titles during his tenure with Real Madrid.&nbsp;Real Madrid won a trophy once every 23.9 games on average during Zinedine Zidane's two spells as manager.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-leaving-because-real-madrid-no-longer-has-faith-in-me-zinedine-zidane-pens-open-letter-to-fans-388553" hreflang="en">Football: 'Leaving because Real Madrid no longer has faith in me' - Zinedine Zidane pens open letter to fans</a>

<h2>Twitter reacts to&nbsp;Zinedine Zidane's resignation followed by his open letter to the fans:</h2>

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Imagine being Zizou. You win everything there’s to win with Madrid, yet the media is upset with you. After that first tenure, you return and drag Madrid out of humiliation depths, win La Liga, yet the media is upset with you. Add this to not being backed. Why did he leave? Well..
— Xav Salazar (@XavsFutbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/XavsFutbol/status/1397869538696388608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Even after a trophyless season, the way majority of Real Madrid’s fans wanted Zidane to stay says it all about him as a person and as a manager. He symbolises what Real Madrid is supposed to be. There’s nobody better than him for this club. The energy he transmits is special.
— TC (@totalcristiano) <a href="https://twitter.com/totalcristiano/status/1397865844953292802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The fact that Zinedine Zidane, a man famed for his calmness and secrecy in front of the media, is coming out and speaking about the lack of support should tell you all you need to know. 
 
Pérez failed him and is failing the club. 
 
Fix up or get out.
— Hasan Karim (@TheHasKarim) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHasKarim/status/1399153222770638855?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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How do you fail to put your full trust in a manager that brought you three Champions League trophies in a row and two La Liga titles. Zidane deserved better. This is unforgivable. The manager didn’t need changing, the people who run the club do.
— RMZZ (@RMBlancoZz) <a href="https://twitter.com/RMBlancoZz/status/1399258911379656705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Difficult to imagine Florentino calling Zidane next February to come back and save them, after they've cycled through two more coaches in meantime.
— Dermot Corrigan (@dermotmcorrigan) <a href="https://twitter.com/dermotmcorrigan/status/1399290925508141058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Be that as it may, as the fans all the while commending the remarkable accomplishment of this perfectly tuned symphony of a football crew, Zinedine Zidane announced his resignation.&nbsp;

An enormous part of the football world wars tossed into stun, into absolute mistrust, at the breaking of this news. In any case, for the individuals who have meticulously followed his groundbreaking vocation from a splendid player to an incredible coach, they could just grin and cheer in enthusiasm for a man who has at last taken in his exercise.

He came, he saw, he conquered and he left. His legacy shall remain untouchable in football.

Football fans took to Twitter as they expressed their opinions following Zinedine Zidane's open letter to supporters after leaving his role as the manager of Real Madrid.

Football fans took to Twitter as they expressed their opinions following Zinedine Zidane's open letter to supporters after leaving his role as the manager of Real Madrid. Zidane, in his letter, accused Los Blancos president Florentino Perez of lacking respect. On the first day of June 2009, Zinedine Zidane strolled into an advisory role in the workplace of Florentino Perez, manager of Real Madrid. In November of the next year, he was designated as an adviser to Madrid's first group on the proposal of then Real Madrid manager, Jose Mourinho. From brandishing director in 2011 to assistant mentor to Carlo Ancelotti in 2013 to the coach of Madrid's B group in 2014 and to being selected head coach of Real Madrid in January 2016, Zinedine Zidane's managerial career was an exciting ride, yet one focused on his previous club as he deliberately scrambled up from the lower part of the evolved way of life to the top. It was new surrounding factors for him, strange waters, even, yet Zinedine Zidane was able to show the world that he actually got that sorcery wand he generally waved around on the field as a player. He was all set to compose another fantasy, yet this time around he was able to do it from the hole and, likely this time as well, do it with a glad consummation on the cards. ALSO READ: Football: Argentina no longer hosting Copa America: CONMEBOL In an open letter to the Real Madrid fans he said: "For more than 20 years, from the first day I arrived in Madrid and wore the white shirt, you’ve shown me your love. I’ve always felt that there was something special between us. "I have now decided to leave and I want to properly explain the reasons. I’m going, but I’m not jumping overboard, nor am I tired of coaching. In May 2018 I left because after two and a half years, with so many victories and so many trophies, I felt the team needed a new approach to stay at the very highest level. Right now, things are different. I’m leaving because I feel the club no longer has the faith in me I need, nor the support to build something in the medium or long term.” Regarded as one of the most decorated Real Madrid managers in history, the 48-year-old Frenchman won three Champions League trophies, two Club World Cups, two UEFA Super Cups, two Spanish Super Cups, and two LaLiga titles during his tenure with Real Madrid. Real Madrid won a trophy once every 23.9 games on average during Zinedine Zidane's two spells as manager. ALSO READ: Football: 'Leaving because Real Madrid no longer has faith in me' - Zinedine Zidane pens open letter to fans Twitter reacts to Zinedine Zidane's resignation followed by his open letter to the fans: Imagine being Zizou. You win everything there’s to win with Madrid, yet the media is upset with you. After that first tenure, you return and drag Madrid out of humiliation depths, win La Liga, yet the media is upset with you. Add this to not being backed. Why did he leave? Well.. — Xav Salazar (@XavsFutbol) May 27, 2021 × Even after a trophyless season, the way majority of Real Madrid’s fans wanted Zidane to stay says it all about him as a person and as a manager. He symbolises what Real Madrid is supposed to be. There’s nobody better than him for this club. The energy he transmits is special. — TC (@totalcristiano) May 27, 2021 × The fact that Zinedine Zidane, a man famed for his calmness and secrecy in front of the media, is coming out and speaking about the lack of support should tell you all you need to know. Pérez failed him and is failing the club. Fix up or get out. — Hasan Karim (@TheHasKarim) May 30, 2021 × How do you fail to put your full trust in a manager that brought you three Champions League trophies in a row and two La Liga titles. Zidane deserved better. This is unforgivable. The manager didn’t need changing, the people who run the club do. — RMZZ (@RMBlancoZz) May 31, 2021 × Difficult to imagine Florentino calling Zidane next February to come back and save them, after they've cycled through two more coaches in meantime. — Dermot Corrigan (@dermotmcorrigan) May 31, 2021 × Be that as it may, as the fans all the while commending the remarkable accomplishment of this perfectly tuned symphony of a football crew, Zinedine Zidane announced his resignation. An enormous part of the football world wars tossed into stun, into absolute mistrust, at the breaking of this news. In any case, for the individuals who have meticulously followed his groundbreaking vocation from a splendid player to an incredible coach, they could just grin and cheer in enthusiasm for a man who has at last taken in his exercise. He came, he saw, he conquered and he left. His legacy shall remain untouchable in football.

Football: 'He symbolises Real Madrid': Fans left gutted after Zinedine Zidane's open letter to supporters

Antonio Cassano trusts Italian manager Antonio Conte will be employed as Zinedine Zidane's substitution by Los Blancos this late spring. The striker likewise accepts the French legend could be the ideal decision for Paris-Saint Germain if Mauricio Pochettino chooses to leave the Ligue 1 colossus.&nbsp;

Antonio Conte stunned fans and savants everywhere in the world when he headed out in different directions from Inter Milan by mutual break-up in the wake of driving the club to its first Scudetto in quite a while.&nbsp;

The Italian manager has demonstrated himself to be a chronic victor lately and constructed himself standing for creating groups that proceed to win prizes several years since his appointment.

Conte has won four Serie A titles, a Premier League, and an FA Cup during his fifteen years as a football manager.&nbsp;

Various top clubs in Europe are presently on the lookout for another manager. Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris-Saint Germain, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal are for the most part apparently searching for another manager this late spring.&nbsp;

Conte is probably going to be at the highest point of the list of things to get for the vast majority of these clubs because of his experience of overseeing top-quality football teams and winning trophies.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-how-pep-guardiolas-manchester-city-imploded-on-their-biggest-night-388380" hreflang="en">Champions League Final: How Pep Guardiola's Manchester City imploded on their biggest night</a>

Antonio Cassano trusts Antonio Conte could wind up at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"For me, Conte's only option is Real Madrid. His time at Inter was positive, with a good first year and winning the Scudetto in his second, playing his way. I don't think he can go to PSG because they don't have the right players for his game or share his football mentality, Zidane is perfect for PSG" - he said

Real Madrid is presently in danger of being prohibited from the Champions League for up to two seasons on the off chance that they neglect to separate themselves from the European Super League. Los Blancos are likewise prone to confront a fine worth up to €100 million.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-pupil-beats-the-master-as-chelseas-tuchel-gets-the-better-of-guardiola-388363" hreflang="en">Football: Pupil beats the master as Chelsea's Tuchel gets the better of Guardiola</a>

This could risk their odds of marking Antonio Conte and marking their top exchange focuses on this mid-year.

Antonio Cassano trusts Italian manager Antonio Conte will be employed as Zinedine Zidane's substitution by Los Blancos this late spring. The striker likewise accepts the French legend could be the ideal decision for Paris-Saint Germain if Mauricio Pochettino chooses to leave the Ligue 1 colossus.

Antonio Cassano trusts Italian manager Antonio Conte will be employed as Zinedine Zidane's substitution by Los Blancos this late spring. The striker likewise accepts the French legend could be the ideal decision for Paris-Saint Germain if Mauricio Pochettino chooses to leave the Ligue 1 colossus. Antonio Conte stunned fans and savants everywhere in the world when he headed out in different directions from Inter Milan by mutual break-up in the wake of driving the club to its first Scudetto in quite a while. The Italian manager has demonstrated himself to be a chronic victor lately and constructed himself standing for creating groups that proceed to win prizes several years since his appointment. Conte has won four Serie A titles, a Premier League, and an FA Cup during his fifteen years as a football manager. Various top clubs in Europe are presently on the lookout for another manager. Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris-Saint Germain, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal are for the most part apparently searching for another manager this late spring. Conte is probably going to be at the highest point of the list of things to get for the vast majority of these clubs because of his experience of overseeing top-quality football teams and winning trophies. ALSO READ: Champions League Final: How Pep Guardiola's Manchester City imploded on their biggest night Antonio Cassano trusts Antonio Conte could wind up at the Santiago Bernabeu. "For me, Conte's only option is Real Madrid. His time at Inter was positive, with a good first year and winning the Scudetto in his second, playing his way. I don't think he can go to PSG because they don't have the right players for his game or share his football mentality, Zidane is perfect for PSG" - he said Real Madrid is presently in danger of being prohibited from the Champions League for up to two seasons on the off chance that they neglect to separate themselves from the European Super League. Los Blancos are likewise prone to confront a fine worth up to €100 million. ALSO READ: Football: Pupil beats the master as Chelsea's Tuchel gets the better of Guardiola This could risk their odds of marking Antonio Conte and marking their top exchange focuses on this mid-year.

Football: 'Antonio Conte's only option is Real Madrid': Antonio Cassano

Zinedine Zidane has resigned as the head coach of Spanish giants Real Madrid with immediate effect, as per media reports. The decision came days after the club were beaten to the La Liga title by Atletico Madrid ending their season without silverware.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-title-winning-conte-says-ciao-as-inter-milan-dream-ends-in-cash-row-387681" hreflang="en">Serie A: Title-winning Conte says 'ciao' as Inter Milan dream ends in cash row</a>

Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano broke the news via Twitter and was picked by several Madrid sports dailies Marca and AS, and the radio station Cadena Ser. According to Romano, the official announcement of his departure would be made "in the next hours/days".

A few days ago, Zidane had denied the reports that suggested that he had already told his players that he would be leaving at the end of the season.

"How am I going to tell my players that I am going now? It's a lie," he said after a 1-0 win at Athletic Bilbao.&nbsp;

"I focus on this season. There is a game left and we are going to give everything. I only care what happens in this finale."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-solskjaers-man-utd-rebuild-mission-laid-bare-by-europa-league-agony-387675" hreflang="en">Football: Solskjaer's Man Utd rebuild mission laid bare by Europa League agony</a>

But, perhaps tellingly, he added: "The rest, we will see at the end of the season."

If there is an official announcement, Zidane will be leaving Real Madrid for the second time. He first became the coach of his former club in 2016 where he guided his team to a La Liga win and a hat-trick of Champions League before quitting in 2018.&nbsp;

He joined the club in 2019 and won the 2019/20 La Liga season. However, in the 2020/2021 season the team did not win any trophy.&nbsp;

Zinedine Zidane has resigned as the head coach of Spanish giants Real Madrid with immediate effect, as per media reports. The decision came days after the club were beaten to the La Liga title by Atletico Madrid ending their season without silverware.

Zinedine Zidane has resigned as the head coach of Spanish giants Real Madrid with immediate effect, as per media reports. The decision came days after the club were beaten to the La Liga title by Atletico Madrid ending their season without silverware. ALSO READ: Serie A: Title-winning Conte says 'ciao' as Inter Milan dream ends in cash row Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano broke the news via Twitter and was picked by several Madrid sports dailies Marca and AS, and the radio station Cadena Ser. According to Romano, the official announcement of his departure would be made "in the next hours/days". A few days ago, Zidane had denied the reports that suggested that he had already told his players that he would be leaving at the end of the season. "How am I going to tell my players that I am going now? It's a lie," he said after a 1-0 win at Athletic Bilbao. "I focus on this season. There is a game left and we are going to give everything. I only care what happens in this finale." ALSO READ: Football: Solskjaer's Man Utd rebuild mission laid bare by Europa League agony But, perhaps tellingly, he added: "The rest, we will see at the end of the season." If there is an official announcement, Zidane will be leaving Real Madrid for the second time. He first became the coach of his former club in 2016 where he guided his team to a La Liga win and a hat-trick of Champions League before quitting in 2018. He joined the club in 2019 and won the 2019/20 La Liga season. However, in the 2020/2021 season the team did not win any trophy.

Zinedine Zidane resigns as Real Madrid coach- Reports

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