We have no trauma about Italy, says Loew

Key Words: Germany Joachim Loew

Germany's dismal record against Italy in major tournaments is not a source of trauma for the world champions, who will face their international nemesis in the Euro 2016 last eight, coach Joachim Loew said.

The Germans, who are four-time world champions and have also won three continental crowns, have always lost to Italy in World Cups and Euro knockout rounds, including in the 1970 World Cup last four, the 1982 World Cup final, a 2006 World Cup semi-final and a Euro 2012 semi-final.

The 2012 defeat was under Loew and was especially bitter, with the Germans, favourites at the time, exiting following a 2-0 loss to the Italians.

"We have never beaten them in a tournament but we have no Italy trauma," Loew said.

"I do not rate the past too much. They are now a different team. That's all cold coffee. A fresh espresso is better and I hope it tastes better on Saturday," he said, taking a sip from his own coffee.

Loew, who led Germany to the 2014 World Cup title, said his players, who beat Italy 4-1 in a friendly in March, would be fully fit and rested when they faced the Italians in Bordeaux.

"We don't fear them. We know what we can do and if we do it then we have a good chance to win it," said the coach.
Germany went through to the last eight with a comfortable 3-0 win over Slovakia but Loew said not too much should be read into that victory.

"I think emotions from the outside are running pretty high. We were almost written off after our 0-0 against Poland. Then we win 3-0 and everything is great. Okay, we did it well but with all due respect for our opponents, I don't think that this victory was the measure for winning the tournament.

"What we need now is humility and modesty.

"Let's keep the bar low, the ball on the ground. I have a good feeling for the weekend. What we have been playing is not enough to win this tournament... Germany have to get better."

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Man Utd ready to smash world-record for Paul Pogba: He's keen to work under Jose Mourinho

MAKING A MOVE: Manchester United are ready to bid for Paul Pogba  

French daily L'Equipe say that Jose Mourinho is a big fan of the Juventus midfielder and wants to act on his interest.

United chief executive Ed Woodward has opened negotiations with the Italian giants and a bid is expected next week when the two sides are set for another meeting.

A lack of Champions League football at Old Trafford is said to be a serious negative for the Frenchman, but he is keen to work with Mourinho.

L'Equipe add that the Portuguese's long-standing interest in the player could also be a factor as he tried to sign him when managing Chelsea.

The deal could be a world-record transfer with Juventus hoping to eclipse an £86m fee for the former United player.

Pogba left United in 2012 after becoming upset with a lack of first-team football and headed to Turin at the end of his contract for a measly £800,000 in compensation.

Due to the vast transfer fee Pogba can expect a monster wage and L'Equipe say it will be a 'substantial financial package'.

United will not have it all their own way though as Real Madrid remain heavily interested in the Euro 2016 star.

But Pogba's representative Mino Raiola could tip the balance in United's favour.

The Dutch agent has a good working relationship with the Red Devils and is close to sealing deals for Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Henrikh Mkhitaryan to take them to the Theatre of Dreams.

At 23 years old Pogba is one of the brightest talents in Europe and looks destined for a huge future in the game.

A move for Pogba would show that United mean serious business and the report comes on the same day that murmurs from Spain say United are going all-guns blazing for Barcelona superstar Neymar.

   

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Arsenal ready to pounce for Real Madrid man if Spanish giants land big-money target

According to reports in Spain, Arsenal remain interested in Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema and could make their move later this summer.

Speculation surrounding the Frenchman moving to the Emirates is nothing new, as he has been linked with joining the Gunners for some time now.

However, as noted by El Confidencial, it would be difficult for him to remain at the Bernabeu if the current European champions opt to try and sign Robert Lewandowski this summer.

The Bayern Munich star is currently on international duty with Poland at Euro 2016, and will in all likelihood not make a decision on his club future until after the tournament ends.

Nevertheless, his switch to Spain could have a knock-on effect in the transfer market, with Arsenal then potentially grabbing their chance at finally prising Benzema away.

The French striker is unlikely to want to play second fiddle at the club to Lewandowski next season, and in turn would arguably have to consider his options moving forward if he wishes to remain a crucial part of his club’s plans with a view of getting back into the French national side.

It’s no secret that Arsene Wenger admires his talents, and he will certainly have a major role to play for his compatriot in north London were they to join forces with Arsenal still desperate for a prolific goalscorer to head up their attack.

However, all will be on hold until Lewandowski makes his decision, as after several successful years in Germany with Borussia Dortmund and Bayern respectively, perhaps the time is right for the Polish ace to start a new journey elsewhere.

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England could turn attention to Laurent Blanc following Gareth Southgate's FA snub

HE BOSS: Is Blanc the right man for the job?

And that could clear the way for Laurent Blanc, who has emerged as a shock contender.

Under-21s coach Southgate was sounded out in early May about the possibility of taking over on a temporary role if Roy Hodgson left after the Euros.

Hodgson quit on Monday after the disastrous 2-1 defat to Iceland, clearing the way for the former Middlesbrough boss.

But after a lot of soul-searching Southgate has decided he has too much to lose by taking on one of football’s toughest jobs.

He has even told FA chiefs he does not want to be considered for the role on a permanent basis.

Southgate has seen the effects failure with the Three Lions has had on the careers of previous England managers, including Graham Taylor and Hodgson.

The England job is rapidly becoming a poisoned chalice, with coaches realising what a huge challenge they face motivating and inspiring players paid way in excess what they are.

It is also understood Southgate does not have a great relationship with FA technical director Dan Ashworth, whose job the 45-year-old turned down.

Southgate wants to manage in the Premier League again and fears being tarnished by any poor England performance could wreck his chances.

His decision could see a swift move for axed Paris St-Germain boss Blanc, who took France to the quarter-finals of Euro 2012 and who is hugely admired by David Gill.

Former Manchester United star Blanc was linked with role on the same day Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger declined to rule himself out of running.

Asked about the suggestion he was the man the FA would wait a year for - until his contract runs out at The Emirates, he would only say: “No reaction thank you.”

But former Gunners chairman Peter Hill-Wood, who appointed Wenger, told Starsport such an offer may have come too late.

"I want him to stay at Arsenal,” he said. “He is would be 67 when his contract is up and turn 69 a few months after the World Cup. It is quite senior to be in that sort of role.”

Blanc is 16 years Wenger’s junior and has coached big personalities - including Zlatan Ibrahimovic in Paris.

He is regarded as a coaching geek who enjoys working at all levels, which fits the FA’s job description.

The 50-year-old had two successful seasons as a player at Old Trafford, winning the title in 2003. He has won the League with PSG for the last three seasons, but was sacked for failing to progress in the Champions League.

He speaks good English and looks to have a major ally in FA vice-chairman Gill, who is picking the new England along with chief executive Martin Glenn and technical director Ashworth.

Southgate’s decsion is huge blow for the FA, who on Tuesday seemed convinced he would be happy to take over, with England’s first World Cup qualifier in Slovakia on September 4.

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Neymar, Douglas Costa and Gabriel Jesus headline Brazil Olympic team

Brazil's 18-man list the Rio 2016 Olympics was revealed on Wednesday, and Neymar, Douglas Costa and teenager Gabriel Jesus will aim to lead their country to its first-ever men's gold medal.

Coach Rogerio Micale's squad also included 37-year-old goalkeeper Fernado Prass, who has never played for his country.

Neymar is expected to captain the team after receiving permission from Barcelona to play for the hosts.

"Neymar is a difference maker, he is one of the best in the world, "Micale, who replaced Dunga after the Copa America, said at a press confernce.

"Any team would be happy to have a player like him... it will mean a lot for our team. "

Costa, a winger at Bayern Munich, also figures to play an important role, while Prass was a surprise choice for the third overage  player.

"I chose him for his leadership profile, "Micale explained.

"He is the captain of his team and plays a leading role in the dressing room. "

Thiago Silva was again left out of the national team, as were David Luiz and Marcelo.

The under-23 contingent is led by Gabreil Jesus, a 19-year-old striker that is a transfer target for both Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Brazil have won the World Cup five times. but have never won Olympic gold.

The Canarinha have three silver medals ( 1984, 1988 and 2012 ) as well as two bronze ones ( 1996 and 2008 ).

Full Squad:

Goalkeepers: Fernando Prass ( Palmeiras ), Ulison ( Atletico Mineiro )

Defenders: Luan (Vasco de Gama ), Rodrgo Caio ( Sao Paulo ), Marquinhos (PSG), Douglas Santos
( Atletico Minero ), William ( Internacional ), Zeca ( santos).

Midfielders: Rafinha ( Barcelona ), Rodrigo Dourado ( International), Fred ( Shakhtar Donetsk),
Thiago Maia ( Santos ) Felipe Anderson ( Gremio ).

Forwards: Neymar ( Barcelona ), Douglas Costa ( Bayern Munich , Gabriel Barbosa ( Santos ), Gabriel Jesus ( Palmeiras) and Luan (Gremeo ).

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Wenger expected to confirm commitment to Arsenal amidst England rumours – report

Arsene Wenger is expected to confirm his commitment to Arsenal in response to rumours linking him with the vacant England manager's job.

Wenger has been mooted as a possible replacement for Roy Hodgson, who resigned this week following England's humiliating Euro 2016 exit to Iceland.

As reported by the Telegraph, Wenger is expected to be sounded out for the England managerial position, but the Frenchman is set to reject the advances, while there is no possibility of a job share.

Other candidates for the England job include Gareth Southgate and Jurgen Klinsmann, as reported by Sky Sports, with the Football Association to consider appointing a foreign coach.

Wenger has just over a year to run on his current deal at Arsenal and is renowned for honouring his contracts, suggesting that there is little possibility that he will leave the Gunners before the end of the 2016/17 campaign.

The Frenchman is closing in on his 20th anniversary as Arsenal manager, but, despite the success that he enjoyed during the early part of his tenure, the club have struggled for consistency in recent seasons and, much to the frustration of supporters, have consistently fallen short

Arsenal, who created 464 chances in the Premier League this term, have already made one new signing ahead of the next campaign, with midfielder Granit Xhaka arriving from Borussia Monchengladbach.

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Jose Mourinho revolution gathering pace as Manchester United get green light over Real Madrid man

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is expected to be a busy man this summer as he continues to look for ways to strengthen his squad ahead of next season.

The Portuguese tactician has already snapped up defender Eric Bailly from Villarreal, while he is also expected to finally wrap up a deal for Zlatan Ibrahimovic by the end of the week.

However, that is far from his business being concluded for the summer, with Real Madrid defender Rafael Varane the next player on his list.

According to The Sun, he may well have received a major boost in his pursuit of the French international too, with suggestions that Real have decided to sell as they plan a clear-out of sort at the Bernabeu this summer.

Mourinho is said to still be a keen admirer of the 23-year-old following their time working together in the Spanish capital, and he will see him as an important addition to his squad to add solidity at the heart of his defence.

Varane, who is currently injured and was forced to miss Euro 2016, has grown frustrated with his lack of playing time at Real, with both Sergio Ramos and Pepe being preferred by Rafael Benitez and Zinedine Zidane last season

The Sun suggest that a fee around £30m would be enough for United to prise the Frenchman away from the La Liga giants, and so it’s certainly proving to be an expensive summer for the Red Devils.

Nevertheless, many will argue that they needed reinforcements, particularly having now changed managers again with Mourinho desperately needing to add his own players to the squad in order to deploy his preferred system and style of play.

Varane will be a major boost to their hopes of competing for the Premier League title next season, and given his age, he has many years at the top ahead of him.

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Arsene Wenger is England's No.1 target to replace Roy Hodgson

Gareth Southgate will be placed in caretaker charge and is expected to lead the Three Lions into the World Cup qualifying campaign, which starts on September 4 against Slovakia.

But FA bosses admit the next appointment is massive and that they want someone with vast experience at the highest level to replace Roy Hodgson.

He quit in the wake of Monday night's shambolic defeat to Iceland in Nice that saw England exit Euro 2016.

A three man panel of FA chief executive Martin Glenn, technical director Dan Ashworth and vice chairman David Gill will make the final decision on who the new boss is.

But Glenn admits there will be no rush and that the FA are prepared to wait as long as it takes - up to a year if necessary - to get the right man.

Starsport understands Arsenal boss Wenger, who has one more season to run on his Arsenal deal, is the No.1 choice while the likes of Claudio Ranieri and Brendan Rodgers are also on the shortlist.

Ashworth, who will head the search, said: "Arsene Wenger has been here (Premier League) since 1996.

"Has Arsene got a fantastic understanding of the Premier League, of English players, of the English media, of the expectations of England? Absolutely.

"So would you rule him out? Probably not. He might not want it."

Glenn revealed FA power-brokers would even consult England's senior players about the appointment and refused to rule out asking Sir Alex Ferguson.

Glenn said: "We'd like to get one for the first World Cup qualifier, but if we don't we have an interim plan in mind.

"We clearly need an inspirational manager who can harness all of the resources that the English game, the big resources, has got, everything we have now got at St George's Park, to make us more resilient in tournaments.

"That I think is the brief and we want to work that through, but it is an inspirational manager and management team to get the best out of a squad which has got high potential.

"I won't be drawn (on targets), but track records are very important. But there might be other criteria that would rule people in.

"In my short time in the role, I do appreciate that running a national team is a very different skill set to running a club, but clearly a track record is an important part of any process.

"I said I am not talking about names. I will sit down with David at the end of the week and we will work out what the process is.

"We are going to use the opinions and wisdom and insight of current managers, former managers and players.

"There's going to be a broader process of consultation."

Source:7msport

 

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Paris Saint-Germain hire Unai Emery as manager to replace Laurent Blanc

Paris Saint-Germain have hired former Sevilla manager Unai Emery on a two-year contract to 2018 after parting company with Laurent Blanc.

Blanc, 50, had managed PSG since 2013, overseeing three of the team's four consecutive Ligue 1 titles and winning additional silverware in the form of French and League Cups along the way.

Le @PSG_inside est heureux d'annoncer l'arrivée d'@UnaiEmery_ au poste d'entraîneur jusqu'en juin 2018 #WelcomeCoach pic.twitter.com/FXeKEMXXUR
- PSG Officiel (@PSG_inside) June 28, 2016

It is an honour for me to accept the challenge of coaching @PSG_English this coming season. pic.twitter.com/GA7wMV6zde
- Unai Emery (@UnaiEmery_) June 28, 2016

"It is with great pride that I agreed to become the Paris-Saint Germain coach," Emery told the club's official website. "The club has become one of the biggest in Europe over the past few seasons and I am both happy and honoured to be able to help realise its great ambitions.

"I am eager to meet up with my new players as well as the people who work tirelessly every day to help the club grow.

"I know that an immense fervour exists around the Paris Saint-Germain and I will be giving my best to ensure its millions of fans have a great deal to cheer about."

"It is with great pride that I agreed to become the Paris-Saint Germain coach," Emery told the club's official website. "The club has become one of the biggest in Europe over the past few seasons and I am both happy and honoured to be able to help realise its great ambitions.

"I am eager to meet up with my new players as well as the people who work tirelessly every day to help the club grow.

"I know that an immense fervour exists around the Paris Saint-Germain and I will be giving my best to ensure its millions of fans have a great deal to cheer about."

Blanc's teams were never able to advance past the quarterfinals of the Champions League, a goal that president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and ownership group Qatar Sports Investments made clear was the ultimate benchmark for the club's success.

Al-Khelaifi added: "I am very happy to welcome Unai Emery as the new coach of Paris Saint-Germain. Unai will bring to the club all his experience, his passion and his strong management skills and human qualities.

"He has a proven talent to get the most out of a team. I am convinced that our fans will love the spectacular style of football our team will play with Unai."

Emery, who was also linked with the vacant Everton coaching position, had overseen three consecutive Europa League titles with the Sevilla and is seen as a managerial prodigy by many.

Sevilla also made the Copa del Rey finals in the previous campaign and forced Barcelona into extra time before losing out 2-0 on goals from Jordi Alba and Neymar.

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Nani says team spirit key to Portugal's progression at Euro 2016

Portugal winger Nani claims the spirit within the camp is the best he has witnessed during his 10 years on the international scene.

The 29-year-old, who has made 100 appearances for his country, has scored twice during the tournament in France.

Portugal have stuttered their way into the quarter-finals, after finishing third in their group thanks to three draws, before recording a narrow 1-0 extra-time victory over Croatia.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani celebrate after Portugal score against Hungary

Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of Thursday's tie with Poland, the Fenerbache star said: "We have shown camaraderie and that we are all rowing in the same direction.

"I can certainly say that for me, this is the best time in the national team for the group that we have. This has been one of the factors that has proved that we are much stronger than before and we are in a good condition to go as far as possible."

Nani is playing in his third European Championship since making his senior international debut in 2006. He is now the fourth most capped Portuguese player and remains positive over their chances of advancing further.

"I think we have played good games, like against Hungary, where we gave an attacking exhibition," he said.

"But it's clear that it can't always be like that. Our aim is to go as far as possible and if we need to sacrifice playing well in order to get a result, we will do so."

As for looking ahead, the former Manchester United player said: "There are no favourite teams in this tournament.

"We know that Poland is a strong side, with experienced players, and we will have to be at our best to go through."

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Italy are better than in 2012 - Low

Germany coach Joachim Low is preparing for the counter-attacking threat posed by Euro 2016 quarter-final opponents Italy.

Joachim Low believes Germany's Euro 2016 quarter-final opponents Italy are a stronger side than four years ago – when they reached the European Championship final.

Germany go head-to-head with Antonio Conte's men in Bordeaux on Saturday after easing past their round-of-16 opponents Slovakia, but Low is wary of the threat posed by Italy's counter-attacking game.

The Azzurri have been impenetrable in their victories over Belgium, Sweden and Spain, and though they conceded a goal in their final group game against the Republic of Ireland, Low is focussing on how to break down one of the tournaments meanest defences.

"I'm looking forward to the game immensely," said Low. "Italy were very impressive [against Spain].

"Italy work well together in defence and have lots of quality in attack. They are a better team than in 2012.

"We need to avoid the Italy counter attack and have a good plan going forward.

"Sami Khedira is a clever player and I will be seeking his advice ahead of the Italy game."

Low has a fully fit squad and a whole week to prepare for the game, and he paid tribute to his medical staff for keeping his players in shape.

Defender Jerome Boateng was struggling with a calf injury prior to the 3-0 win over Slovakia, but intensive treatment helped him recover in time to play – and score – in the game.

Low said: "We have every player available. The medical team worked with Jerome Boateng non-stop prior to the Slovakia game. They did fantastically.

"I have faith in all my players. They are working incredibly hard in training. We can use the week to instill new impetus in preparation for the game. The break is not a disadvantage."

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Euro 2016 quarter-finals: Four players banned from next stage, including PFA Team of the Year member

The Euro 2016 quarter-finals are slated to begin in just a few days but for four players they will not be allowed to represent their respective countries in the final eight.

According to Squawka News, four players are scheduled to miss the upcoming quarter-finals: Sevilla defender Adil Rami (France), Leicester City midfielder N'Golo Kante (France), Barcelona defender Thomas Vermaelen (Belgium) and Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Thiago Motta (Italy).

Kante was a key member of Leicester City's Premier League title win this past season, earning PFA Team of the Year honours in his first year with the club.

Vermaelen made just 13 appearances for Barcelona this past year but has been featured in all of Belgium's matches. Belgium face Wales on July 1st.

Motta has been used primarily as a sub for Italy in Euro 2016 but made 45 appearances for PSG this past year. Italy face Germany on July 2nd.

Rami was a member of Sevilla's UEFA Europa League title-winning lineup against Liverpool, and has played all 360 minutes for France in Euro 2016. France take on Iceland in the final match of the quarter-finals on July 3rd.

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Chelsea set to submit third bid for Roma’s Radja Nainggolan – report

Chelsea are reportedly set to submit a third bid for AS Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan, despite the fact the Italian giants are holding out for £31 million.

The 28-year-old has been one of Roma's stand-out performers over the last two years or so and his displays have prompted strong interest from Premier League giants Chelsea.

However, the departure of Nainggolan's midfield partner Miralem Pjanic to Juventus has left the Blues in a battle to snap him up, with Roma not keen on letting yet another indispensable player leave them this summer.

Despite that, the Mirror reports that Chelsea have not given up hope of signing Nainggolan, with Antonio making the tenacious midfielder his top priority and is determined to reach an agreement.

The aforementioned source also reveals that Chelsea have already had two bids turned down by Roma for Nainggolan, with Luciano Spalletti's side currently holding out for £31 million.

Nainggolan, who has impressed at the European Championships this summer for a rejuvenated Belgium, told reporters last week that he was happy in Rome - although he did admit there was contact from Chelsea.

It remains to be seen whether Chelsea's next offer will be the one that meets Roma's price tag, but it seems they are certainly not giving up on the former Cagliari man.

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Manchester United agree Henrikh Mkhitaryan personal terms, medical due

Manchester United are closing on the sensational signature of Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

 

Manchester United are closing on the signature of Henrikh Mkhitaryan and have even agreed personal terms, SkySports report.

It is claimed a medical will take place 'within the next week', with a £26.3 million fee agreed with Borussia Dortmund.

SkySports also claim a medical for free agent Zlatan Ibrahimovic will take place 'next week'.

United have already signed Eric Bailly from Villarreal, and the additions show new manager Jose Mourinho means business ahead of next season.

German outlet Ruhr Nahtrichten report Mkhitaryan has signed a four year contract which will net him 12 million Euros over it's course.

Mkhitaryan scored 18 goals last season and provided 23 assists, and will provide the creative spark the Red Devils so often lacked last season under Louis van Gaal.

Despite their stellar signings, United do not have Champions League football to play after finishing only in fifth place, and will have to navigate the Europa League instead.

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