Click here to read the full article.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Usain Bolt and Barack Obama are among the friends, fellow athletes and notable figures remembering Pelé, the Brazilian soccer legend who died Thursday at the age of 82.
His agent told the Associated Press that the three-time World Cup winner, whose real name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento, died after he was hospitalized for the past month. In September 2021, he was diagnosed with colon cancer.
His daughter, Kelly Cristina Nascimento, shared a photo on Instagram with loved ones’ hands all holding Pelé’s by his hospital bed, with a caption honoring her father.
Pelé played a huge role in increasing the popularity of the sport across the globe, especially in the United States. He played professionally in Brazil for two decades, where he won three World Cup championships in 1958, 1962 and 1970. Later, he joined the New York Cosmos in the North American Soccer...
Cristiano Ronaldo, Usain Bolt and Barack Obama are among the friends, fellow athletes and notable figures remembering Pelé, the Brazilian soccer legend who died Thursday at the age of 82.
His agent told the Associated Press that the three-time World Cup winner, whose real name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento, died after he was hospitalized for the past month. In September 2021, he was diagnosed with colon cancer.
His daughter, Kelly Cristina Nascimento, shared a photo on Instagram with loved ones’ hands all holding Pelé’s by his hospital bed, with a caption honoring her father.
Pelé played a huge role in increasing the popularity of the sport across the globe, especially in the United States. He played professionally in Brazil for two decades, where he won three World Cup championships in 1958, 1962 and 1970. Later, he joined the New York Cosmos in the North American Soccer...
- 12/29/2022
- by Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Barcelona midfielder, who scored two international goals and who won the World Cup with Spain in 2010 and the European Championship two years later, wrote on Instagram: "I would like to announce that after almost 15 years and 143 matches, the moment has arrived to bid farewell to the national team."
Busquets made his debut for La Roja against Turkey in April 2009 and went on to make 143 appearances, behind only Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos in the country’s history.
The 34-year-old captained Spain in each of their four games at the World Cup in Qatar, missing a penalty in the shootout as Luis Enrique’s side were knocked out by Morocco at the last-16 stage.
In the Instagram post, Busquets paid tribute to the variety of people involved in his successful Spain career.
"I would like to thank all the people who have accompanied me on this long road," he wrote.
Busquets made his debut for La Roja against Turkey in April 2009 and went on to make 143 appearances, behind only Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos in the country’s history.
The 34-year-old captained Spain in each of their four games at the World Cup in Qatar, missing a penalty in the shootout as Luis Enrique’s side were knocked out by Morocco at the last-16 stage.
In the Instagram post, Busquets paid tribute to the variety of people involved in his successful Spain career.
"I would like to thank all the people who have accompanied me on this long road," he wrote.
- 12/16/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
Retired professional footballer Iker Casillias, who was a goalkeeper for Real Madrid for most of his career, has been criticized for a Tweet he sent out on Sunday.
The short and now-deleted Tweet, originally written in Spanish, said “I hope I’ll be respected: I’m gay.”
Casillias had written this tweet in an apparent response to rumors that he was seen with multiple women in the wake of his recent divorce. While it must be frustrating to be the subject of tabloid rumors, this is a gross way to respond to that situation.
Former Barcelona captain Carles Puyol also responded to the Tweet saying, “The time has come to tell our story, Iker,” in what seemed to be a bad attempt at a joke.
He later tweeted, “I apologize for a clumsy joke that wasn’t malicious at all but was totally out of order.”
Casillias then attempted damage control with the below tweet,...
The short and now-deleted Tweet, originally written in Spanish, said “I hope I’ll be respected: I’m gay.”
Casillias had written this tweet in an apparent response to rumors that he was seen with multiple women in the wake of his recent divorce. While it must be frustrating to be the subject of tabloid rumors, this is a gross way to respond to that situation.
Former Barcelona captain Carles Puyol also responded to the Tweet saying, “The time has come to tell our story, Iker,” in what seemed to be a bad attempt at a joke.
He later tweeted, “I apologize for a clumsy joke that wasn’t malicious at all but was totally out of order.”
Casillias then attempted damage control with the below tweet,...
- 10/12/2022
- by Jacob Linden
- Uinterview
TelevisaUnivision is adding to the roster of original titles offered on the ViX+ premium streaming service that bowed last month with the goal of serving up more than 70 new programs in its first year of operations.
Production is underway on three scripted drama series, “Colapso,” “Isla Brava,” and “Senda Prohibida,” as well as the documentary “Absoluta” offering behind-the-scenes look at the transformation of Spain’s national soccer team known affectionately as La Furia Roja (the Red Fury).
“From thrilling mysteries to heartwarming personal stories, these new original productions represent a sample of the breadth of incredible Spanish-language storytelling you can only find on ViX+,” said Rodrigo Mazon, executive VP and general manager of ViX+.
Launched July 21 in the U.S. and Latin America, ViX+ has struck programming deals with a bevy of prominent content creators including Salma Hayek Pinault, Eugenio Derbez, Selena Gomez, Maria Dueñas, Mario Vargas Llosa, Santiago Limón,...
Production is underway on three scripted drama series, “Colapso,” “Isla Brava,” and “Senda Prohibida,” as well as the documentary “Absoluta” offering behind-the-scenes look at the transformation of Spain’s national soccer team known affectionately as La Furia Roja (the Red Fury).
“From thrilling mysteries to heartwarming personal stories, these new original productions represent a sample of the breadth of incredible Spanish-language storytelling you can only find on ViX+,” said Rodrigo Mazon, executive VP and general manager of ViX+.
Launched July 21 in the U.S. and Latin America, ViX+ has struck programming deals with a bevy of prominent content creators including Salma Hayek Pinault, Eugenio Derbez, Selena Gomez, Maria Dueñas, Mario Vargas Llosa, Santiago Limón,...
- 8/8/2022
- by Anna Marie de la Fuente
- Variety Film + TV
Antonio Banderas is set to host the 2021 Spanish Academy Goya Awards on Feb. 27 in Banderas’ hometown of Malaga. It is the actor’s first time hosting the awards, and he will share duties with María Casado, one of Spain’s most respected television journalists and president of the Television Academy.
Banderas, among Spain’s best-known cinematic exports for decades, has five Spanish Academy nominations and an Honorary Goya of his own. But it was only this year that the actor finally took home a trophy for his work in Pedro Almodóvar’s “Pain and Glory,” a performance which also won him best actor at Cannes and an Oscar nomination.
According to the Academy, there are plans to limit audience capacity and impose strict health and safety measures based on expert recommendations at the time the ceremony is held. Banderas’ production company Teatro Soho TV will help produce the ceremony which...
Banderas, among Spain’s best-known cinematic exports for decades, has five Spanish Academy nominations and an Honorary Goya of his own. But it was only this year that the actor finally took home a trophy for his work in Pedro Almodóvar’s “Pain and Glory,” a performance which also won him best actor at Cannes and an Oscar nomination.
According to the Academy, there are plans to limit audience capacity and impose strict health and safety measures based on expert recommendations at the time the ceremony is held. Banderas’ production company Teatro Soho TV will help produce the ceremony which...
- 7/1/2020
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Madrid — Spain’s premier soccer organization, La Liga, held a high-profile presentation in Madrid on Tuesday evening for a new anthem as part of its “Latidos del futuro” (Heartbeats of the Future) program, which will be used for years to come as a soundtrack at each of its fixtures and during league TV programming, similar to UEFA’s now-iconic Champions League anthem.
Tuesday evening’s event was held at the Fundación Francisco Giner de los Ríos in downtown Madrid, where stars from the world of Spanish soccer, TV and music braved 100 degree plus temperatures and an exceedingly-rare daytime-rainstorm to mingle with club representatives from across the country and international press. Popular Spanish TV presenter Roberto Leal Mc’d the day’s festivities.
Most of the league’s high-profile teams are in the middle of their offseason tours outside of Spain, but videos were played of Spanish national team and Barcelona...
Tuesday evening’s event was held at the Fundación Francisco Giner de los Ríos in downtown Madrid, where stars from the world of Spanish soccer, TV and music braved 100 degree plus temperatures and an exceedingly-rare daytime-rainstorm to mingle with club representatives from across the country and international press. Popular Spanish TV presenter Roberto Leal Mc’d the day’s festivities.
Most of the league’s high-profile teams are in the middle of their offseason tours outside of Spain, but videos were played of Spanish national team and Barcelona...
- 7/24/2019
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Andres Kudacki/AP/Press Association Images
Manchester United’s top summer transfer target, Sergio Ramos has announced that he will sign a new deal at Real Madrid, according to The Mirror.
The 29-year-old has been trying to force a move to Old Trafford for the last few months but has reportedly agreed to sign a new five-year deal that will keep him at the club until June 2020.
Ramos had become disillusioned with life in Madrid and wanted a contract that represented his worth in the side, especially now that he has taken over as club captain following Iker Casillas’ transfer to Porto.
But after a successful meeting with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, Marca reports that Ramos has come to an agreement which offers him a substantial pay-rise alongside the captain’s armband.
The new contract guarantees that the centre-back ends his career with the Spanish giants, that was reportedly one of Ramos’ wishes.
Manchester United’s top summer transfer target, Sergio Ramos has announced that he will sign a new deal at Real Madrid, according to The Mirror.
The 29-year-old has been trying to force a move to Old Trafford for the last few months but has reportedly agreed to sign a new five-year deal that will keep him at the club until June 2020.
Ramos had become disillusioned with life in Madrid and wanted a contract that represented his worth in the side, especially now that he has taken over as club captain following Iker Casillas’ transfer to Porto.
But after a successful meeting with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, Marca reports that Ramos has come to an agreement which offers him a substantial pay-rise alongside the captain’s armband.
The new contract guarantees that the centre-back ends his career with the Spanish giants, that was reportedly one of Ramos’ wishes.
- 7/29/2015
- by Matt Smith
- Obsessed with Film
Adam Davy/Empics Sport
Iker Casillas could be finally be on his way out of Madrid this summer with reports suggesting the goalkeeper is attracting interest from As Roma.
The Spanish international has been at his childhood club for the whole of his career so far, but the newly appointed Real Madrid head coach, Rafa Benitez, is set to drop him for the expected arrival of Manchester United keeper David De Gea.
In a report by The Mirror, it is claimed that the Italian side are in the process of making contact with Casillas.
However, any move for the most capped Spanish star would have to burst the bank, with the player who has captained World Cup, European Championship and Champions League winning teams reportedly earning €3million-a-year, with two years remaining on his lucrative deal.
Casillas will have to consider that a move away from the capital may have an...
Iker Casillas could be finally be on his way out of Madrid this summer with reports suggesting the goalkeeper is attracting interest from As Roma.
The Spanish international has been at his childhood club for the whole of his career so far, but the newly appointed Real Madrid head coach, Rafa Benitez, is set to drop him for the expected arrival of Manchester United keeper David De Gea.
In a report by The Mirror, it is claimed that the Italian side are in the process of making contact with Casillas.
However, any move for the most capped Spanish star would have to burst the bank, with the player who has captained World Cup, European Championship and Champions League winning teams reportedly earning €3million-a-year, with two years remaining on his lucrative deal.
Casillas will have to consider that a move away from the capital may have an...
- 6/29/2015
- by Matthew Brown
- Obsessed with Film
Petros Karadjias/AP/Press Association Images
Earlier this week, EA Sports began upping the anticipation and excitement levels for the much-coveted release of FIFA 15 by drip-feeding us the ratings of the top 50 players.
So far, we’ve only had the first thirty and debate is already raging over the fact that Iker Casillas, a ‘keeper who had a horrendous World Cup – his decision making was particularly questionable in the mauling Spain faced against the Netherlands – a ‘keeper who also, until recently, hadn’t even been Real Madrid’s No.1, maintained such a high rating of 84 – this is, however, a rating drop of two points from his FIFA 14 level.
The debate of FIFA player ratings will be a debate that our kids will argue about, and their kids after them and their kids after them…you get the picture. FIFA will never Ever release a game were the users go: “Yep,...
Earlier this week, EA Sports began upping the anticipation and excitement levels for the much-coveted release of FIFA 15 by drip-feeding us the ratings of the top 50 players.
So far, we’ve only had the first thirty and debate is already raging over the fact that Iker Casillas, a ‘keeper who had a horrendous World Cup – his decision making was particularly questionable in the mauling Spain faced against the Netherlands – a ‘keeper who also, until recently, hadn’t even been Real Madrid’s No.1, maintained such a high rating of 84 – this is, however, a rating drop of two points from his FIFA 14 level.
The debate of FIFA player ratings will be a debate that our kids will argue about, and their kids after them and their kids after them…you get the picture. FIFA will never Ever release a game were the users go: “Yep,...
- 9/6/2014
- by Daniel Blazer
- Obsessed with Film
Spain's players still are the reigning World and European soccer champions, but, according to the web, they're chumps. Photos Hollywood's Biggest Soccer Fans Shortly after Spain's surprise 2-0 defeat by Chile in its second match of the 2014 World Cup — a loss that means Spain is out of the tournament no matter what its result against Australia on Monday — fans took to the Internet to gloat. Photos World Cup 2014: The 32 Biggest Global Stars The team of superstars, which includes Andres Iniesta, Gerard Pique, Xabi Alonso and Iker Casillas, were depicted as video game losers, tourists heading
read more...
read more...
- 6/19/2014
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
World Cup Schedule Day 7:
Australia vs Netherlands - 5pm on ITV
Spain v Chile - 8pm on BBC One
Cameroon v Croatia - 11pm on ITV
Match of the Day: Spain v Chile
This always looked like one of the best fixtures of the first round of the World Cup, but it has even more drama heaped on it thanks to the Spanish capitulation against the Netherlands.
Many predicted that the Spanish would not be as strong as in previous tournaments, but nobody could have foreseen the thrashing they got from Robin Van Persie and co last Friday.
Chile looked strong in the win against Australia and should be riding high with confidence, so don't expect them to be playing for the draw. There is a genuine chance that holders Spain could be the first team out of the tournament by the end of the evening.
Punditry Bingo...
Australia vs Netherlands - 5pm on ITV
Spain v Chile - 8pm on BBC One
Cameroon v Croatia - 11pm on ITV
Match of the Day: Spain v Chile
This always looked like one of the best fixtures of the first round of the World Cup, but it has even more drama heaped on it thanks to the Spanish capitulation against the Netherlands.
Many predicted that the Spanish would not be as strong as in previous tournaments, but nobody could have foreseen the thrashing they got from Robin Van Persie and co last Friday.
Chile looked strong in the win against Australia and should be riding high with confidence, so don't expect them to be playing for the draw. There is a genuine chance that holders Spain could be the first team out of the tournament by the end of the evening.
Punditry Bingo...
- 6/18/2014
- Digital Spy
Andres Kudacki/AP/Press Association Images
Real Madrid were the favourites for the game and it didn’t take them too long to take the lead. After just three minutes Daniel Carvajal fed the ball to Gareth Bale, who toe-poked his shot beneath Roman Weidenfeller.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 14th Champions League goal of the season to equal Lionel Messi’s record and seal a superb 3-0 victory against Borussia Dortmund.
Gareth Bale opened the scoring after just four minutes before Isco struck home a brilliant 20-yard effort to double Los Blanco’s lead. In the second half, Cristiano Ronaldo rounded the keeper for an easy finish before later leaving the field due to injury.
He almost doubled his advantage a few moments later as the hosts were storming, much like they did in the previous round, but Bale’s effort was disallowed for offside after he flicked the ball into the net.
Real Madrid were the favourites for the game and it didn’t take them too long to take the lead. After just three minutes Daniel Carvajal fed the ball to Gareth Bale, who toe-poked his shot beneath Roman Weidenfeller.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 14th Champions League goal of the season to equal Lionel Messi’s record and seal a superb 3-0 victory against Borussia Dortmund.
Gareth Bale opened the scoring after just four minutes before Isco struck home a brilliant 20-yard effort to double Los Blanco’s lead. In the second half, Cristiano Ronaldo rounded the keeper for an easy finish before later leaving the field due to injury.
He almost doubled his advantage a few moments later as the hosts were storming, much like they did in the previous round, but Bale’s effort was disallowed for offside after he flicked the ball into the net.
- 4/3/2014
- by Josh Challies
- Obsessed with Film
Alberto Saiz/AP/Press Association Images
A brace from Cristiano Ronaldo helped Real Madrid secure a 3-1 victory on the night and a huge 9-2 aggregate scoreline in their favour, at the expense of Schalke.
Ronaldo opened the scoring after 21 minutes and hit his second of the night after the interval, which Alvaro Morata then added to moments later. Earlier, Tim Hoogland had equalised for the Germans with a curling effort that was helped on it’s way by a big deflection.
Real Madrid were far less dominant than they were in the first leg but they could afford to be with a 6-1 scoreline already in the bag, though they still took the lead twenty-one minutes into the match when Cristiano Ronaldo converted substitute Gareth Bale’s low delivery.
The Welshman had been elected to sit on the bench for the beginning of the match, with this weekends huge El Clasico match in mind,...
A brace from Cristiano Ronaldo helped Real Madrid secure a 3-1 victory on the night and a huge 9-2 aggregate scoreline in their favour, at the expense of Schalke.
Ronaldo opened the scoring after 21 minutes and hit his second of the night after the interval, which Alvaro Morata then added to moments later. Earlier, Tim Hoogland had equalised for the Germans with a curling effort that was helped on it’s way by a big deflection.
Real Madrid were far less dominant than they were in the first leg but they could afford to be with a 6-1 scoreline already in the bag, though they still took the lead twenty-one minutes into the match when Cristiano Ronaldo converted substitute Gareth Bale’s low delivery.
The Welshman had been elected to sit on the bench for the beginning of the match, with this weekends huge El Clasico match in mind,...
- 3/19/2014
- by Josh Challies
- Obsessed with Film
Andres Kudacki/AP/Press Association Images
Real Madrid gave Schalke a footballing lesson in Germany this season as they blew away their opponents with a 5-0 victory, giving them a superb cushion to take back to the Bernabeu for the second-leg.
Karim Benzema opened the scoring after a well worked move before Gareth Bale doubled the Spaniards advantage with a brilliant individual effort. Ronaldo marked his return to the team with a goal six minutes after the restart, with Benzema getting his second of the night shortly afterwards.
Bale then secured a brace of his own with an easy finish, while Ronaldo scored his second late on. Klass Jan Huntelaar scored a consolation goal in stoppage time with a brilliantly executed volley.
Real Madrid opened the scoring in the twelfth minute with their first chance of the match. Gareth Bale linked up with Cristiano Ronaldo, who fed the ball through to Karim Benzema.
Real Madrid gave Schalke a footballing lesson in Germany this season as they blew away their opponents with a 5-0 victory, giving them a superb cushion to take back to the Bernabeu for the second-leg.
Karim Benzema opened the scoring after a well worked move before Gareth Bale doubled the Spaniards advantage with a brilliant individual effort. Ronaldo marked his return to the team with a goal six minutes after the restart, with Benzema getting his second of the night shortly afterwards.
Bale then secured a brace of his own with an easy finish, while Ronaldo scored his second late on. Klass Jan Huntelaar scored a consolation goal in stoppage time with a brilliantly executed volley.
Real Madrid opened the scoring in the twelfth minute with their first chance of the match. Gareth Bale linked up with Cristiano Ronaldo, who fed the ball through to Karim Benzema.
- 2/26/2014
- by Josh Challies
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
Amongst all the end of year awards announced in the last week, FIFPro have selected their team of the year for 2013 and it is: Manuel Neuer; Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, Sergio Ramos, Philipp Lahm; Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Franck Ribery; Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Naturally the reaction in the British press has been to question the lack of Premier League players in the team, but that is just a reflection of the poor performance of English teams in the Champions League compared to previous years.
What is more noteworthy, though, is that the selection reflects an accepted wisdom of previous years with regard to the dominance of La Liga and Spain’s Golden Generation. In a year in which Barcelona were thoroughly outplayed by Bayern Munich across two legs in the Champions League and Spain well beaten in the Confederations Cup Final, should...
Amongst all the end of year awards announced in the last week, FIFPro have selected their team of the year for 2013 and it is: Manuel Neuer; Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, Sergio Ramos, Philipp Lahm; Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Franck Ribery; Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Naturally the reaction in the British press has been to question the lack of Premier League players in the team, but that is just a reflection of the poor performance of English teams in the Champions League compared to previous years.
What is more noteworthy, though, is that the selection reflects an accepted wisdom of previous years with regard to the dominance of La Liga and Spain’s Golden Generation. In a year in which Barcelona were thoroughly outplayed by Bayern Munich across two legs in the Champions League and Spain well beaten in the Confederations Cup Final, should...
- 1/22/2014
- by Jack Gann
- Obsessed with Film
Emilio Morenatti/AP/Press Association Images
Every year, FIFPro, the worldwide representative organisation for 65,000 professional football players, invites its members to pick their best team of the last 12 months.
This team, commonly referred to as a “World XI”, can contain stars from any league, and is to include one goalkeeper, four defenders, three midfielders and three strikers.
The World XI for 2013 will be announced on January 13, 2014, when the shortlist of football’s greats will be whittled down to a final 11 man team.
With the much-awaited results incoming, we thought we’d use the shortlist and put together our own World XI, and here it is.
Gk. Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich)
Mike Egerton/Empics Sport
Gianluigi Buffon of Juventus, Real Madrid’s out-of-favour Iker Casillas, Chelsea’s Petr Cech and Barcelona stopper Victor Valdes have all joined Manuel Neuer on the shortlist for 2013′s greatest goalkeeper.
But it is Neuer who stands out above the rest,...
Every year, FIFPro, the worldwide representative organisation for 65,000 professional football players, invites its members to pick their best team of the last 12 months.
This team, commonly referred to as a “World XI”, can contain stars from any league, and is to include one goalkeeper, four defenders, three midfielders and three strikers.
The World XI for 2013 will be announced on January 13, 2014, when the shortlist of football’s greats will be whittled down to a final 11 man team.
With the much-awaited results incoming, we thought we’d use the shortlist and put together our own World XI, and here it is.
Gk. Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich)
Mike Egerton/Empics Sport
Gianluigi Buffon of Juventus, Real Madrid’s out-of-favour Iker Casillas, Chelsea’s Petr Cech and Barcelona stopper Victor Valdes have all joined Manuel Neuer on the shortlist for 2013′s greatest goalkeeper.
But it is Neuer who stands out above the rest,...
- 1/9/2014
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini is undecided who will start in goal for his side’s game against Norwich at the weekend following Costel Pantilimon’s display against Newcastle in the Capital One Cup on Wednesday.
According to the BBC, the City supremo has been left in a quandary as to who to play between the sticks after No.2 Pantilimon put in an assured display last night.
Hart is both City and England’s first-choice goalkeeper but has been guilty of making a series of clanging mistakes in recent weeks, and has had his position for club and country called into question of late.
“Whichever keeper plays will have my support,” said Pellegrini.
“Costel normally plays in the League Cup and Fa Cup so it was an important game for him.”
When pressed on whether the Romanian – who made a series of superb saves against Newcastle, including...
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini is undecided who will start in goal for his side’s game against Norwich at the weekend following Costel Pantilimon’s display against Newcastle in the Capital One Cup on Wednesday.
According to the BBC, the City supremo has been left in a quandary as to who to play between the sticks after No.2 Pantilimon put in an assured display last night.
Hart is both City and England’s first-choice goalkeeper but has been guilty of making a series of clanging mistakes in recent weeks, and has had his position for club and country called into question of late.
“Whichever keeper plays will have my support,” said Pellegrini.
“Costel normally plays in the League Cup and Fa Cup so it was an important game for him.”
When pressed on whether the Romanian – who made a series of superb saves against Newcastle, including...
- 11/1/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Media Image Ltd
Blunder keeper Joe Hart will be dropped for Manchester City’s visit to Newcastle United in the Capital One Cup on Wednesday and could even lose his place against Norwich at the weekend.
According to the Telegraph, City boss Manuel Pellegrini has finally lost patience with the gaff-prone No.1 and will give Costel Pantilimon a chance to shine tomorrow.
Hart also faces an anxious wait to see if he will reclaim his place for the weekend Premier League game against Norwich, after putting in a series of erratic performances.
The England international was badly at fault for Chelsea’s last-minute winning goal at Stamford Bridge on Sunday and Pellegrini pointedly refused to give his public backing to the shot-stopper in his post-match interviews.
It appears as though the latest clanger at the weekend, which saw him rush off his goal-line to block Fernando Torres, only for the...
Blunder keeper Joe Hart will be dropped for Manchester City’s visit to Newcastle United in the Capital One Cup on Wednesday and could even lose his place against Norwich at the weekend.
According to the Telegraph, City boss Manuel Pellegrini has finally lost patience with the gaff-prone No.1 and will give Costel Pantilimon a chance to shine tomorrow.
Hart also faces an anxious wait to see if he will reclaim his place for the weekend Premier League game against Norwich, after putting in a series of erratic performances.
The England international was badly at fault for Chelsea’s last-minute winning goal at Stamford Bridge on Sunday and Pellegrini pointedly refused to give his public backing to the shot-stopper in his post-match interviews.
It appears as though the latest clanger at the weekend, which saw him rush off his goal-line to block Fernando Torres, only for the...
- 10/29/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
© Steve Harris
Date: Saturday, October 26 Venue: Nou Camp Kick-Off: 17:00 BST
Who will emerge victorious as Spanish heavyweights Barcelona and Real Madrid clash in the first “El Clasico” of the season?
Team News
Barcelona’s Lionel Messi is fit to face Real Madrid on Saturday after overcoming a thigh injury.
The FIFA World Player of the Year missed clashes against Celtic and Valladolid, but started Tuesday’s Champions League draw with AC Milan.
Centre-back Gerard Pique is a slight doubt with a hamstring injury, meaning Carlos Puyol could step in.
Real Madrid will be boosted by the return of Gareth Bale, after the world’s most expensive player made his return from injury be coming off the bench against Juventus midweek.
Goalkeeper Iker Casillas started that game but is again expected to be dropped for this La Liga clash, with the Spain captain being used in Europe only so far this season.
Date: Saturday, October 26 Venue: Nou Camp Kick-Off: 17:00 BST
Who will emerge victorious as Spanish heavyweights Barcelona and Real Madrid clash in the first “El Clasico” of the season?
Team News
Barcelona’s Lionel Messi is fit to face Real Madrid on Saturday after overcoming a thigh injury.
The FIFA World Player of the Year missed clashes against Celtic and Valladolid, but started Tuesday’s Champions League draw with AC Milan.
Centre-back Gerard Pique is a slight doubt with a hamstring injury, meaning Carlos Puyol could step in.
Real Madrid will be boosted by the return of Gareth Bale, after the world’s most expensive player made his return from injury be coming off the bench against Juventus midweek.
Goalkeeper Iker Casillas started that game but is again expected to be dropped for this La Liga clash, with the Spain captain being used in Europe only so far this season.
- 10/26/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Arsenal have been put on alert after goalkeeper Iker Casillas suggested he could leave Real Madrid if he is unable to force his way back into the team, according to the Independent.
The 32-year-old found himself displaced by Diego Lopez at the Bernabeu last season under the reign of Jose Mourinho, though it was widely expected he would retain his place once the Special One returned to Chelsea.
However, that has not been the case with his successor Carlo Ancelotti also preferring Lopez with Casillas yet to make a single appearance in La Liga this term.
And the Spain captain, who has been at Madrid his entire career, has now hinted he could quit the club after growing frustrated by his spell on the sidelines.
He is reported to have told local media in Madrid:
“Players go through moments when if you are not playing a part you think about making some sort of decision.
The 32-year-old found himself displaced by Diego Lopez at the Bernabeu last season under the reign of Jose Mourinho, though it was widely expected he would retain his place once the Special One returned to Chelsea.
However, that has not been the case with his successor Carlo Ancelotti also preferring Lopez with Casillas yet to make a single appearance in La Liga this term.
And the Spain captain, who has been at Madrid his entire career, has now hinted he could quit the club after growing frustrated by his spell on the sidelines.
He is reported to have told local media in Madrid:
“Players go through moments when if you are not playing a part you think about making some sort of decision.
- 10/18/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
With sixteen Real Madrid players away on international duty this week, Madridistas still had a lot to look forward to as La Liga took a break for the final round of World Cup Qualifying games. Real Madrid’s playing staff has been spread far and wide and have been competing on three continents, for eight different teams.
The team which called-up the most Real Madrid players was, of course, Spain. Both Alvaro Arbeloa and Sergio Ramos started and finished the game as Spain consolidated their position at the top of World Cup Qualifying Group I with a 2-1 win over Belarus, although neither Madrid defender could prevent Belarus grabbing a late consolation goal to spoil to Spaniards’ clean sheet. Iker Casillas was left on the bench for Spain owing to his status as his club’s number two goalkeeper and Isco was an unused sub as del Bosque chose to...
The team which called-up the most Real Madrid players was, of course, Spain. Both Alvaro Arbeloa and Sergio Ramos started and finished the game as Spain consolidated their position at the top of World Cup Qualifying Group I with a 2-1 win over Belarus, although neither Madrid defender could prevent Belarus grabbing a late consolation goal to spoil to Spaniards’ clean sheet. Iker Casillas was left on the bench for Spain owing to his status as his club’s number two goalkeeper and Isco was an unused sub as del Bosque chose to...
- 10/12/2013
- by Zak Forster
- Obsessed with Film
© Steve Harris
Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo netted a hat trick as Real Madrid started their Champions League campaign with an emphatic 6-1 victory. Madrid ‘keeper Iker Casillas was recalled to the side, and made a good save early on from a long-range drive by Burak Yilmaz. However, his run out was cut short after being elbowed in the ribs early on. Diego Lopez replaced him after 16 minutes. It took the Spaniards half an hour to break the deadlock, with midfielder Isco cooly slotting home from inside the area. Karim Benzema doubled their advantage after the break with a side-footed effort, after being put through one on one with the ‘keeper. Cristiano Ronaldo made it 3-0 with a simple tap-in from the 6-yard box, after good work on the right-hand side from Angel Di Maria, and Galatasaray failing to clear their lines. Minutes later, he grabbed a brace after a...
Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo netted a hat trick as Real Madrid started their Champions League campaign with an emphatic 6-1 victory. Madrid ‘keeper Iker Casillas was recalled to the side, and made a good save early on from a long-range drive by Burak Yilmaz. However, his run out was cut short after being elbowed in the ribs early on. Diego Lopez replaced him after 16 minutes. It took the Spaniards half an hour to break the deadlock, with midfielder Isco cooly slotting home from inside the area. Karim Benzema doubled their advantage after the break with a side-footed effort, after being put through one on one with the ‘keeper. Cristiano Ronaldo made it 3-0 with a simple tap-in from the 6-yard box, after good work on the right-hand side from Angel Di Maria, and Galatasaray failing to clear their lines. Minutes later, he grabbed a brace after a...
- 9/18/2013
- by Crip Cooke
- Obsessed with Film
With only one last harrowing week of patience required before FIFA 14 hits shelves on September 24th, we’ve reached the stage of the year when the current game is mercilessly picked to pieces and ridiculed for its inadequacy in the shadow of its refined successor.
You’ve watched trailer after trailer to feed your lust for the new features, updated squads and revolutionary gameplay awaiting in FIFA 14, and it gets you thinking – who am I going to include in my best XI? Which players are going to give me the best chance of victory in all game modes?
We’ve been pondering the exact same thing. So, using the stats database available at futhead.com, we’re going to share who we think deserves a place in the FIFA 14: Invincible XI. This topic is sure to attract debate, so don’t forget to share your opinion in the comments section below…...
You’ve watched trailer after trailer to feed your lust for the new features, updated squads and revolutionary gameplay awaiting in FIFA 14, and it gets you thinking – who am I going to include in my best XI? Which players are going to give me the best chance of victory in all game modes?
We’ve been pondering the exact same thing. So, using the stats database available at futhead.com, we’re going to share who we think deserves a place in the FIFA 14: Invincible XI. This topic is sure to attract debate, so don’t forget to share your opinion in the comments section below…...
- 9/17/2013
- by Luke Karlik
- Obsessed with Film
Arsenal are preparing a shock bid for Real Madrid’s Iker Casillas after the goalkeeper was left on the bench for a second game in a row on Monday night, according to the London Evening Standard.
Sources close to the 32-year-old suggest he will quit Madrid if he continues to remain behind Diego Lopez in the pecking order under new manager Carlo Ancelotti.
Casillas looked far from impressed as he was left out in the cold during his side’s 1-0 win against Granada at the Estadio Nuevo Los Carmenes last night.
The Spain star was also omitted from the Real starting XI that won 2-1 against Real Betis in the opening round of La Liga fixtures.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wemger has around £70 million to spend before next Tuesday’s transfer deadline day and has been looking for a new goalkeeper for much of the summer to provide competition to Wojciech Szczesny.
Sources close to the 32-year-old suggest he will quit Madrid if he continues to remain behind Diego Lopez in the pecking order under new manager Carlo Ancelotti.
Casillas looked far from impressed as he was left out in the cold during his side’s 1-0 win against Granada at the Estadio Nuevo Los Carmenes last night.
The Spain star was also omitted from the Real starting XI that won 2-1 against Real Betis in the opening round of La Liga fixtures.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wemger has around £70 million to spend before next Tuesday’s transfer deadline day and has been looking for a new goalkeeper for much of the summer to provide competition to Wojciech Szczesny.
- 8/27/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
A preview of Chelsea’s Premier League season including ‘player to watch’ and position prediction.
Chelsea
The return of the Special/Happy one has left Chelsea fans licking their lips at the prospect of a return to the glory days associated with the suave Portugeezer. On the transfer front, Chelsea have added Schurrle, Van Ginkel and Schwarzer, while De Bruyne and Lukaku return to the club following loan spells last season. The Wayne Rooney transfer saga looks set to run through until the end of the window, with Chelsea reported to have upped their offer to £30 million, while United are standing firm and insisting he is not for sale at any price.
The Premier League that Mourinho left is very different to the one which he now finds himself in, with no Fergie to do battle with and a new breed of managers at the top clubs. In terms of...
Chelsea
The return of the Special/Happy one has left Chelsea fans licking their lips at the prospect of a return to the glory days associated with the suave Portugeezer. On the transfer front, Chelsea have added Schurrle, Van Ginkel and Schwarzer, while De Bruyne and Lukaku return to the club following loan spells last season. The Wayne Rooney transfer saga looks set to run through until the end of the window, with Chelsea reported to have upped their offer to £30 million, while United are standing firm and insisting he is not for sale at any price.
The Premier League that Mourinho left is very different to the one which he now finds himself in, with no Fergie to do battle with and a new breed of managers at the top clubs. In terms of...
- 8/6/2013
- by Mark Longman
- Obsessed with Film
Leave it to Victoria Beckham to look amazing and stylish, even when riding a horse! Victoria and her husband, David, took their sons, Brooklyn, Romeo, and Cruz, horseback riding in La last week. The family saddled up for a guided tour of the trails, and David and Victoria took turns snapping photos of the scenery and their sons. Victoria's equestrian jaunt is just the latest in a string of Summer activities - the mom of four has been getting outside and taking advantage of the warm La weather lately, and she shared a picture of herself hiking near the Hollywood sign. David is also making the most of his downtime since retiring from soccer in May. He recently brought his sons along to check out his former Real Madrid teammates as they practiced at UCLA and posed for photos with fellow athletes Cristiano Ronaldo and Iker Casillas. View Slideshow ›...
- 8/6/2013
- by Brittney Stephens
- Popsugar.com
The return of the so called ‘Special One’ to the Barclays Premier League at the beginning of June grabbed all the headlines. After a somewhat tumultuous end to his reign at Real Madrid, Jose Mourinho stated himself that he felt he was returning to a place where he is loved. That place is Stamford Bridge. That place is Chelsea.
His three year spell in Spain was hot and cold. He briefly masterminded the run for Madrid which culminated in a League title in 2012 and a brief rest bite from the perennial success that Barcelona have enjoyed over the last five years or so. However his time was also overshadowed by reported fall outs with the President of Real Madrid Florentino Perez and an up and down relationship with the Spanish media. If that was not enough, Mourinho had to manage several notable off the field issues during the 2012-13 season...
His three year spell in Spain was hot and cold. He briefly masterminded the run for Madrid which culminated in a League title in 2012 and a brief rest bite from the perennial success that Barcelona have enjoyed over the last five years or so. However his time was also overshadowed by reported fall outs with the President of Real Madrid Florentino Perez and an up and down relationship with the Spanish media. If that was not enough, Mourinho had to manage several notable off the field issues during the 2012-13 season...
- 7/4/2013
- by Matthew Ford
- Obsessed with Film
According to the Sun, Liverpool’s Pepe Reina has hinted he wants to move to a bigger club than Liverpool, putting the future of goalkeeper in real doubt.
Reina has been part of the Liverpool squad for eight years but has shocked fans by hinting he wants a new challenge.
The 30-year-old did confirm he is still at happy at Anfield but explained that a bigger challenge would be of interest to him:
“I’m very happy and satisfied at Liverpool. But of course if I’m given the chance to improve and go to a bigger club, and now there are a few bigger than Liverpool, I’m sure the club would understand.”
Reina was part of the Liverpool side that won the 2007 Champions League final but with the club constantly failing to get back into the top four, the keeper is unhappy at the direction the club is...
Reina has been part of the Liverpool squad for eight years but has shocked fans by hinting he wants a new challenge.
The 30-year-old did confirm he is still at happy at Anfield but explained that a bigger challenge would be of interest to him:
“I’m very happy and satisfied at Liverpool. But of course if I’m given the chance to improve and go to a bigger club, and now there are a few bigger than Liverpool, I’m sure the club would understand.”
Reina was part of the Liverpool side that won the 2007 Champions League final but with the club constantly failing to get back into the top four, the keeper is unhappy at the direction the club is...
- 6/22/2013
- by Matt Robinson
- Obsessed with Film
This afternoon, sensational news emerged that Chelsea’s Juan Mata could leave for Barcelona this summer after falling out with new manager Jose Mourinho.
The reports will shock many, especially given that the Spanish midfielder was the club’s Player of the Season last season and was also nominated for the Pfa Player of the Year award.
He has also been a big hit with fans since moving to West London from Valencia two years ago.
But apparently, the player has had a row with the “Special One” after being refused the increase in wages promised to him by the stipulations in the contract he signed back in 2011.
Mourinho is also said to be “unconvinced” by the midfielder, who may not factor into his plans next season.
The former Real Madrid boss is certainly not afraid to axe even the most popular and talented of his players. Just ask Mata’s compatriot Iker Casillas.
The reports will shock many, especially given that the Spanish midfielder was the club’s Player of the Season last season and was also nominated for the Pfa Player of the Year award.
He has also been a big hit with fans since moving to West London from Valencia two years ago.
But apparently, the player has had a row with the “Special One” after being refused the increase in wages promised to him by the stipulations in the contract he signed back in 2011.
Mourinho is also said to be “unconvinced” by the midfielder, who may not factor into his plans next season.
The former Real Madrid boss is certainly not afraid to axe even the most popular and talented of his players. Just ask Mata’s compatriot Iker Casillas.
- 6/19/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Last night, Spain answered their critics by ruthlessly disposing of Italy in the Final of the U21 European Championships.
Following Barcelona’s humiliation by German giants Bayern Munich in the semi-finals of the Champions League after being knocked out 7-0 on aggregate, many questions were raised over whether Spain were headed for a downward spiral.
Germany, it was said, would be the major world force in years to come and Bayern, not Barca, would reign supreme.
Yet last night, the reigning World and European champions showed they have world quality youngsters coming through capable of maintaining their period of domination both domestically and abroad.
Players like Isco, Thiago and David de Gea all shone in the 4-2 win over the Azzurri and proved that if the likes of Xavi, Iniesta and Iker Casillas are on their way out, they are more than capable of taking their places.
And, as the...
Following Barcelona’s humiliation by German giants Bayern Munich in the semi-finals of the Champions League after being knocked out 7-0 on aggregate, many questions were raised over whether Spain were headed for a downward spiral.
Germany, it was said, would be the major world force in years to come and Bayern, not Barca, would reign supreme.
Yet last night, the reigning World and European champions showed they have world quality youngsters coming through capable of maintaining their period of domination both domestically and abroad.
Players like Isco, Thiago and David de Gea all shone in the 4-2 win over the Azzurri and proved that if the likes of Xavi, Iniesta and Iker Casillas are on their way out, they are more than capable of taking their places.
And, as the...
- 6/19/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Jose Mourinho finally returned to Chelsea yesterday after a tumultuous spell with Real Madrid, signing a 4 year contract back with the club where he felt loved. His challenge now is similar to what it was in 2004, to make Chelsea title contenders once more, after two seasons without a credible challenge. Mourinho will also be seeking to restore his reputation, which has been somewhat dented by his failure to lead Madrid to their tenth Champions League title.
Although he won the Copa Del Rey and the La Liga Title, this fell well short of the expectations of the world’s biggest club for a three year managerial tenure, and Madrid’s demanding fans made their feelings known by booing Mourinho in his last game in charge. Mourinho’s ability to motivate his players has also been called into question after he lost the dressing room at Real Madrid and engaged in...
Although he won the Copa Del Rey and the La Liga Title, this fell well short of the expectations of the world’s biggest club for a three year managerial tenure, and Madrid’s demanding fans made their feelings known by booing Mourinho in his last game in charge. Mourinho’s ability to motivate his players has also been called into question after he lost the dressing room at Real Madrid and engaged in...
- 6/4/2013
- by Max Lindon
- Obsessed with Film
Jose Mourinho has admitted he is leaving Real Madrid in the summer, and hinted he will join Chelsea, according to a report in the Daily Mirror.
The self-styled ‘Special One’ apparently made the claim at a coaches’ meeting at his young son’s football club, where he also mentioned, albeit tongue-in-cheek, that Chelsea would be his next club.
The Mirror reported on Friday that the Portuguese’ had struck a pact with Real Madrid President Florentino Perez to allow him to leave the Bernabeu in the summer.
And his latest public claims will stoke the fire even further as speculation runs riot as to his next move.
Manuel Alvarez, chairman of the Canillas club in Madrid where Mourinho made his speech, said:
“Mourinho told us that next year he cannot talk to the coaches, it was impossible, because he will not be here.
“If Mourinho goes it will be a great loss for Spanish football.
The self-styled ‘Special One’ apparently made the claim at a coaches’ meeting at his young son’s football club, where he also mentioned, albeit tongue-in-cheek, that Chelsea would be his next club.
The Mirror reported on Friday that the Portuguese’ had struck a pact with Real Madrid President Florentino Perez to allow him to leave the Bernabeu in the summer.
And his latest public claims will stoke the fire even further as speculation runs riot as to his next move.
Manuel Alvarez, chairman of the Canillas club in Madrid where Mourinho made his speech, said:
“Mourinho told us that next year he cannot talk to the coaches, it was impossible, because he will not be here.
“If Mourinho goes it will be a great loss for Spanish football.
- 4/18/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Türk Telekom Arena Date: Tuesday, 9th April K/o: 7:45 GMT Team News
If Galatasaray faced a mountain to climb in overturning a 3-0 deficit in the second leg of tonight’s Champions League quarter final, their mission has been made all the more difficult by the suspension to leading goalscorer Burak Yilmaz.
The Turk will miss out tonight having picked up a yellow card in the first leg, while centre-back Dany Nounkeu is similarly unavailable.
Left-back Albert Riera and vice-captain and attacking midfielder Selcuk Inan do however return to the fold having been rested for the 3-1 victory over Mersin Iy at the weekend.
Real Madrid will have to make do without suspended duo Sergio Ramos and Xabi Alonso, who will be replaced by Raphael Varane and Luka Modric respectively.
Iker Casillas has returned from injury but the goalkeeper looks set to miss out to Diego Lopez, who...
If Galatasaray faced a mountain to climb in overturning a 3-0 deficit in the second leg of tonight’s Champions League quarter final, their mission has been made all the more difficult by the suspension to leading goalscorer Burak Yilmaz.
The Turk will miss out tonight having picked up a yellow card in the first leg, while centre-back Dany Nounkeu is similarly unavailable.
Left-back Albert Riera and vice-captain and attacking midfielder Selcuk Inan do however return to the fold having been rested for the 3-1 victory over Mersin Iy at the weekend.
Real Madrid will have to make do without suspended duo Sergio Ramos and Xabi Alonso, who will be replaced by Raphael Varane and Luka Modric respectively.
Iker Casillas has returned from injury but the goalkeeper looks set to miss out to Diego Lopez, who...
- 4/9/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Santiago Bernabeu Date: Wednesday, 3rd April K/o: 19:45 Team News
Real Madrid are set to had recalls to Xabi Alonso, Mesut Ozil and Angel Di Maria for tonight’s Champions League quarter-final clash with Galatasaray after the trio were rested at the weekend.
Raphael Varane and Fabio Coentrao are also pushing for a return to Jose Mourinho’s starting XI, but goalkeeper Iker Casillas will again miss out in spite of having recovered from a hand injury.
Diego Lopez will continue to deputise in goal.
Galatasaray will be hoping Burak Yilmaz can continue his mean run of form tonight and the joint highest scorer in this season’s competition is set to partner former Chelsea forward Didier Drogba up front.
Johan Elmander has travelled to the Spanish capital as the former Bolton Wanderers striker steps up his recovery from a foot injury.
Former Inter Milan midfielder Wesley Sneijder...
Real Madrid are set to had recalls to Xabi Alonso, Mesut Ozil and Angel Di Maria for tonight’s Champions League quarter-final clash with Galatasaray after the trio were rested at the weekend.
Raphael Varane and Fabio Coentrao are also pushing for a return to Jose Mourinho’s starting XI, but goalkeeper Iker Casillas will again miss out in spite of having recovered from a hand injury.
Diego Lopez will continue to deputise in goal.
Galatasaray will be hoping Burak Yilmaz can continue his mean run of form tonight and the joint highest scorer in this season’s competition is set to partner former Chelsea forward Didier Drogba up front.
Johan Elmander has travelled to the Spanish capital as the former Bolton Wanderers striker steps up his recovery from a foot injury.
Former Inter Milan midfielder Wesley Sneijder...
- 4/3/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Date: Tuesday, 5th March Venue: Old Trafford K/o: 19:45 Team News
Manchester United are likely to be without Phil Jones after the defender injured his ankle against Reading in the Fa Cup while Rio Ferdinand has been suffering from illness.
Paul Scholes is out with a knee injury but Sir Alex Ferguson has an otherwise fully fit side to select from.
Injured goalkeeper Iker Casillas has travelled to Manchester but the Spain No.1 is unlikely to feature, meaning Diego Lopez will continue to deputise in goal.
Pepe played in midfield against Barcelona at the weekend and is pushing for a start.
Match Preview
This blockbuster encounter scarcely needs an introduction.
The spotlight will well and truly shine on former Red Devil Cristiano Ronaldo, who’s return to Old Trafford for the first time since laving for Madrid in a world-record-smashing £80 million deal will act as an intriguing sub-plot for...
Manchester United are likely to be without Phil Jones after the defender injured his ankle against Reading in the Fa Cup while Rio Ferdinand has been suffering from illness.
Paul Scholes is out with a knee injury but Sir Alex Ferguson has an otherwise fully fit side to select from.
Injured goalkeeper Iker Casillas has travelled to Manchester but the Spain No.1 is unlikely to feature, meaning Diego Lopez will continue to deputise in goal.
Pepe played in midfield against Barcelona at the weekend and is pushing for a start.
Match Preview
This blockbuster encounter scarcely needs an introduction.
The spotlight will well and truly shine on former Red Devil Cristiano Ronaldo, who’s return to Old Trafford for the first time since laving for Madrid in a world-record-smashing £80 million deal will act as an intriguing sub-plot for...
- 3/5/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Manchester United will have to pay £15 million if they want to sign goalkeeper Asmir Begovic from Stoke, according to the Mirror.
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is reportedly hunting for a replacement for incumbent No.1 David de Gea at Old Trafford and has targeted the Bosnian as his number one target.
But he will have to shell out £15 million in the summer if he wants to land his man.
Ferguson has already paid out a similarly large sum of money on a goalkeeper when he signed de Gea from Atletico Madrid for £18 million and he will have to make another large investment if he wants to replace him.
Stoke turned down a £12 million bid for the shot-stopper from Chelsea a year ago and the keeper’s market value has soared since then after a number of impressive performances.
Tony Pulis has already signed young goalkeeper Jack Butland from Birmingham City...
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is reportedly hunting for a replacement for incumbent No.1 David de Gea at Old Trafford and has targeted the Bosnian as his number one target.
But he will have to shell out £15 million in the summer if he wants to land his man.
Ferguson has already paid out a similarly large sum of money on a goalkeeper when he signed de Gea from Atletico Madrid for £18 million and he will have to make another large investment if he wants to replace him.
Stoke turned down a £12 million bid for the shot-stopper from Chelsea a year ago and the keeper’s market value has soared since then after a number of impressive performances.
Tony Pulis has already signed young goalkeeper Jack Butland from Birmingham City...
- 2/4/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Santiago Bernabeu Date: Wednesday, 30th January K/o: 3:00pm Est/10pm GMT Team News
Real Madrid are without key defenders Sergio Ramos and Fabio Coentrao for the first leg of this Copa Del Rey encounter, with the duo out through suspension.
Angel di Maria is also out, along with center-back Pepe and captain Iker Casillas.
Barcelona have no injury concerns and Tito Vilanova will have a full squad to choose from.
Match Preview
Barcelona travel to the Bernabeu tonight for the first-leg of this Copa Del Rey encounter, and as with any modern day El Classico, this barnstormer will see two of the world’s finest players go head to head. Lionel Messi has been in fine form following a record-breaking year in 2012 and scored four past Osasuna in the league and has netted in the last 16 games he has started.
Ronaldo meanwhile has scored two hat-tricks this...
Real Madrid are without key defenders Sergio Ramos and Fabio Coentrao for the first leg of this Copa Del Rey encounter, with the duo out through suspension.
Angel di Maria is also out, along with center-back Pepe and captain Iker Casillas.
Barcelona have no injury concerns and Tito Vilanova will have a full squad to choose from.
Match Preview
Barcelona travel to the Bernabeu tonight for the first-leg of this Copa Del Rey encounter, and as with any modern day El Classico, this barnstormer will see two of the world’s finest players go head to head. Lionel Messi has been in fine form following a record-breaking year in 2012 and scored four past Osasuna in the league and has netted in the last 16 games he has started.
Ronaldo meanwhile has scored two hat-tricks this...
- 1/30/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Real Madrid are plotting a bid for Chelsea’s Petr Cech, according to the Daily Star.
The Spanish Champions are on the look-out for a new No.1 with uncertainty surrounding the future of Iker Casillas, who has been left on the bench at the Bernabeu for a number of games this season.
It is thought that Casillas’ relationship with manager Jose Mourinho has deteriorated this season and Chelsea shot-stopper Cech is considered the idea candidate to replace the Spaniard in goal.
Cassilas, a World Cup winner, is set to miss his Madrid’s tie with Manchester United in the Champions League next month with a fractured hand, and the growing speculation that he could quit over his poor relationship with Mourinho has prompted club officials to step up their pursuits for a replacement.
Cech signed a new four-year deal with Chelsea just last May however, tying him with the club...
The Spanish Champions are on the look-out for a new No.1 with uncertainty surrounding the future of Iker Casillas, who has been left on the bench at the Bernabeu for a number of games this season.
It is thought that Casillas’ relationship with manager Jose Mourinho has deteriorated this season and Chelsea shot-stopper Cech is considered the idea candidate to replace the Spaniard in goal.
Cassilas, a World Cup winner, is set to miss his Madrid’s tie with Manchester United in the Champions League next month with a fractured hand, and the growing speculation that he could quit over his poor relationship with Mourinho has prompted club officials to step up their pursuits for a replacement.
Cech signed a new four-year deal with Chelsea just last May however, tying him with the club...
- 1/25/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Real Madrid duo Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos have denied that they and other team-mates demanded transfers unless manager Jose Mourinho was sacked, according to the BBC.
Spanish newspaper Marca reported that goalkeeper Casillas and defender Ramos issued the ultimatum during a meeting with president Florentino Perez.
But the duo have taken the move to reject speculation by issuing a joint statement.
“We want to show our support for the character of our coach Jose Mourinho.”
Meanwhile, Perez branded the reports an attempt to “destabilise the club”.
But Jose Mourinho hasn’t been in Casillas’ good books lately when he made the decision to drop the goalkeeper for successive league games whilst the Portuguese is also reported to have had heated arguments with Ramos.
The full statement by Casillas and Ramos posted on Real Madrid’s website read:
“The two captains of Real Madrid want to communicate the following: That...
Spanish newspaper Marca reported that goalkeeper Casillas and defender Ramos issued the ultimatum during a meeting with president Florentino Perez.
But the duo have taken the move to reject speculation by issuing a joint statement.
“We want to show our support for the character of our coach Jose Mourinho.”
Meanwhile, Perez branded the reports an attempt to “destabilise the club”.
But Jose Mourinho hasn’t been in Casillas’ good books lately when he made the decision to drop the goalkeeper for successive league games whilst the Portuguese is also reported to have had heated arguments with Ramos.
The full statement by Casillas and Ramos posted on Real Madrid’s website read:
“The two captains of Real Madrid want to communicate the following: That...
- 1/25/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Real Madrid are lining up a £22million bid for Manchester United keeper David de Gea, according to a report in The Sun.
The Spanish goalkeeper has found himself heavily rotated at Old Trafford this season, and has only started 12 of his sides last 20 Premier League games. Yesterday’s 2-0 victory over West Brom was only his second clean sheet of the season, and there have been reports the keeper is homesick and wants to return to Spain.
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho and his number 1 keeper at the Bernabeu Iker Casillas have fallen out recently – and the goalkeeper found himself dropped to the bench for his sides game against Malaga in La Liga for the first time in a decade.
Now Mourinho has lined up 22 year old de Gea – who only left Atletico Madrid for £18.9m 18 months ago – as Casillas’ replacement.
A Real insider reportedly told the Sun:
“De Gea...
The Spanish goalkeeper has found himself heavily rotated at Old Trafford this season, and has only started 12 of his sides last 20 Premier League games. Yesterday’s 2-0 victory over West Brom was only his second clean sheet of the season, and there have been reports the keeper is homesick and wants to return to Spain.
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho and his number 1 keeper at the Bernabeu Iker Casillas have fallen out recently – and the goalkeeper found himself dropped to the bench for his sides game against Malaga in La Liga for the first time in a decade.
Now Mourinho has lined up 22 year old de Gea – who only left Atletico Madrid for £18.9m 18 months ago – as Casillas’ replacement.
A Real insider reportedly told the Sun:
“De Gea...
- 12/30/2012
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Manchester United have adopted a rotation policy for their goalkeeper position this season, often swapping between David De Gea and Anders Lindegaard.
After splashing out £19m on De Gea from Atletico Madrid (source – telegraph), the no 1 spot seemed to be nailed down for the 21 year old Spaniard. But after a collection of gaffes and blunders, De Gea’s position came under scrutiny. Up stepped Lindegaard and the Dane seems a reliable stopper and does his job well, but Sir Alex Ferguson doesn’t seem to look at Lindegaard as United’s no1 keeper.
De Gea will be given time to adjust by Ferguson and he wasn’t bought to be an immediate hit. De Gea is all about potential and we’ve seen bits of that over last season and the beginning of this, but maybe United are asking for too much too soon with De Gea.
This bodes the question,...
After splashing out £19m on De Gea from Atletico Madrid (source – telegraph), the no 1 spot seemed to be nailed down for the 21 year old Spaniard. But after a collection of gaffes and blunders, De Gea’s position came under scrutiny. Up stepped Lindegaard and the Dane seems a reliable stopper and does his job well, but Sir Alex Ferguson doesn’t seem to look at Lindegaard as United’s no1 keeper.
De Gea will be given time to adjust by Ferguson and he wasn’t bought to be an immediate hit. De Gea is all about potential and we’ve seen bits of that over last season and the beginning of this, but maybe United are asking for too much too soon with De Gea.
This bodes the question,...
- 11/5/2012
- by Nathan Lee
- Obsessed with Film
With Euro 2012 now finished and a rampant Spain crowned champions it’s time for the team of the tournament. How many Spaniards make the cut? Who is my player of the tournament? Which one of the strikers locked on three goals made it into my starting XI? Read on as all will be revealed.
Gk – Iker Casillas (Spain)
Although there were a couple of stand out goalkeepers at the tournament there is only one Iker Casillas. He is Spain’s last line of defence and when he is eventually called into action he rarely disappoints. Played six conceded one with five consecutive clean sheets and a penalty save from João Moutinho in the semi final shoot out only tell half the story. His reflexes are superb, his leadership qualities are second to none and he has supreme levels of concentration. Two years ago he made an incredible save from Arjen Robben...
Gk – Iker Casillas (Spain)
Although there were a couple of stand out goalkeepers at the tournament there is only one Iker Casillas. He is Spain’s last line of defence and when he is eventually called into action he rarely disappoints. Played six conceded one with five consecutive clean sheets and a penalty save from João Moutinho in the semi final shoot out only tell half the story. His reflexes are superb, his leadership qualities are second to none and he has supreme levels of concentration. Two years ago he made an incredible save from Arjen Robben...
- 7/3/2012
- by Robert MacDonald
- Obsessed with Film
Spain claimed their third successive major international title after winning Euro 2012 with a typically dominant performance over Italy in Kiev.
David Silva scored the first goal after only 14 minutes before Jordi Alba got forward from left-back to slot home the second in the first half.
Italy went down to 10 men in the second period when they lost Thiago Motta to injury and Spain took full control. First Fernando Torres and then Juan Mata scored goals to finish the match.
The Spanish started with their usual system of six midfielders, including the ever-consistent Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso. Italian manager Cesare Prandelli opted to start Mario Balotelli and Antonio Cassano in the hope that they could conjure up a similar performance to the one they gave against Germany.
Spain had the best of the opening exchanges, that mainly arrived via the feet of the outstanding Xavi. After 10 minutes the Barcelona play-maker...
David Silva scored the first goal after only 14 minutes before Jordi Alba got forward from left-back to slot home the second in the first half.
Italy went down to 10 men in the second period when they lost Thiago Motta to injury and Spain took full control. First Fernando Torres and then Juan Mata scored goals to finish the match.
The Spanish started with their usual system of six midfielders, including the ever-consistent Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso. Italian manager Cesare Prandelli opted to start Mario Balotelli and Antonio Cassano in the hope that they could conjure up a similar performance to the one they gave against Germany.
Spain had the best of the opening exchanges, that mainly arrived via the feet of the outstanding Xavi. After 10 minutes the Barcelona play-maker...
- 7/2/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
Record breakers Spain have been crowned European Champions for the third time in their history and for the second time in a row after a dominating victory in the Euro 2012 final.
They beat Italy 4-0 with goals from David Silva, Jordi Alba and Fernando Torres, before Juan Mata added gloss to proceedings late on. Italy though had to play the final twenty minutes with ten men after using all their substitutions before Motta, a substitute himself, was forced off with injury and the final scoreline is harsh on Italy who in fact only had 2% less overall possession by full time.
Despite this, Spain gave the same lethal display that has seen them go 12 European Championship matches unbeaten – a new record. In fact, the night was full of them. Fernando Torres’ goal means he is the first player to score in two European finals and coach Vincente Del Bosque equalled West...
They beat Italy 4-0 with goals from David Silva, Jordi Alba and Fernando Torres, before Juan Mata added gloss to proceedings late on. Italy though had to play the final twenty minutes with ten men after using all their substitutions before Motta, a substitute himself, was forced off with injury and the final scoreline is harsh on Italy who in fact only had 2% less overall possession by full time.
Despite this, Spain gave the same lethal display that has seen them go 12 European Championship matches unbeaten – a new record. In fact, the night was full of them. Fernando Torres’ goal means he is the first player to score in two European finals and coach Vincente Del Bosque equalled West...
- 7/1/2012
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Spain could make history by becoming the only international team to win three major titles in a row when they meet Italy in the Euro 2012 Final on Sunday.
This is a look back at their journey to the Final and what to expect from the game at the Olympic Stadium in Kiev.
Their tournament began as it will finish; against Italy.
Vicente del Bosque elected to play without a striker in a 4-6-0 formation that included Cesc Fabregas as a makeshift frontman. His system allowed the six middle men to swap positions frequently, exchanging passes between one another until space opened up for a break away pass through the opposition’s back four.
Italy, playing a 3-5-2, coped well under the pressure and by half time the score remained 0-0. Italian wingers Christian Maggio and Emanuele Giaccherini were immense at falling back to clog up the penalty area...
This is a look back at their journey to the Final and what to expect from the game at the Olympic Stadium in Kiev.
Their tournament began as it will finish; against Italy.
Vicente del Bosque elected to play without a striker in a 4-6-0 formation that included Cesc Fabregas as a makeshift frontman. His system allowed the six middle men to swap positions frequently, exchanging passes between one another until space opened up for a break away pass through the opposition’s back four.
Italy, playing a 3-5-2, coped well under the pressure and by half time the score remained 0-0. Italian wingers Christian Maggio and Emanuele Giaccherini were immense at falling back to clog up the penalty area...
- 7/1/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
Italy meet Spain in the Euro 2012 Final on Sunday, with Cesare Prandelli’s men the last capable of stopping the Spaniards winning their third consecutive major international trophy.
This is a look back at their journey to the Final and what to expect from the game at the Olympic Stadium in Kiev.
Their tournament began as it will finish; against Spain.
Cesare Prandelli took a chance on a 3-5-2 formation that he had been toying with in the absence of usual left-back Domenico Criscito, excluded to deal with a betting scandal surrounding him in Russia.
Meanwhile Vicente Del Bosque set out a 4-6-0, preferring six midfielders to an orthodox striker like Fernando Torres or Fernando Llorente.
While Xavi and Andres Iniesta were not completely stopped in their tracks, the Italian system worked efficiently enough to allow the Azzurri to keep the score at 0-0 by half time.
After...
This is a look back at their journey to the Final and what to expect from the game at the Olympic Stadium in Kiev.
Their tournament began as it will finish; against Spain.
Cesare Prandelli took a chance on a 3-5-2 formation that he had been toying with in the absence of usual left-back Domenico Criscito, excluded to deal with a betting scandal surrounding him in Russia.
Meanwhile Vicente Del Bosque set out a 4-6-0, preferring six midfielders to an orthodox striker like Fernando Torres or Fernando Llorente.
While Xavi and Andres Iniesta were not completely stopped in their tracks, the Italian system worked efficiently enough to allow the Azzurri to keep the score at 0-0 by half time.
After...
- 7/1/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
We shall bypass the two hours of football and head right to the penalties, something I wish I could have done last night. There is a lot of talk about penalty shootouts being a lottery but there are some things that you can definitely look out for. German’s don’t miss, England don’t win, heroes can be made from the unlikeliest of candidates and villains can be anyone. The one thing that is a guarantee is that your big players always take a penalty, right?
As a fan sitting in the stands, in the fan zones and bars, at home or at work on your smart phone the one thing that gives you hope is that your key players will stride to the spot and take their chance. They probably all won’t chip it down the middle ala Pirlo and Ramos but that is not what you are looking for.
As a fan sitting in the stands, in the fan zones and bars, at home or at work on your smart phone the one thing that gives you hope is that your key players will stride to the spot and take their chance. They probably all won’t chip it down the middle ala Pirlo and Ramos but that is not what you are looking for.
- 6/28/2012
- by Robert MacDonald
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Donbass Arena, Donetsk, Ukraine
Kick-Off: 19:45 BST
Spain and France, two giants of European football, clash in Donetsk on Saturday with La Roja chasing their third consecutive title and Les Bleus hoping to end their reign at the top.
Team News
France will be without suspended centre-back Philippe Mexes after he picked up his second booking in the group stages, Arsenal’s Laurent Koscielny is expected to deputise.
Yohan Cabaye has recovered from a thigh injury that kept him out of the 2-0 defeat to Sweden on Tuesday. Franck Ribery and Samir Nasri are expected to resume their usual positions despite missing some of this week’s training sessions. Nasri had a knee injury while Ribery had blisters but both are expected to play tonight.
Spain have a full squad to choose from and are shaping up to name the same squad from their final group game.
Preview
The...
Kick-Off: 19:45 BST
Spain and France, two giants of European football, clash in Donetsk on Saturday with La Roja chasing their third consecutive title and Les Bleus hoping to end their reign at the top.
Team News
France will be without suspended centre-back Philippe Mexes after he picked up his second booking in the group stages, Arsenal’s Laurent Koscielny is expected to deputise.
Yohan Cabaye has recovered from a thigh injury that kept him out of the 2-0 defeat to Sweden on Tuesday. Franck Ribery and Samir Nasri are expected to resume their usual positions despite missing some of this week’s training sessions. Nasri had a knee injury while Ribery had blisters but both are expected to play tonight.
Spain have a full squad to choose from and are shaping up to name the same squad from their final group game.
Preview
The...
- 6/23/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
Spain left it late to secure their place at the top of Group C as Italy’s win in Poznan saw them into a close second. Jesus Navas scored a neatly crafted goal with two minutes remaining to see Vicente del Bosque’s men safely through to the Quarter-Finals.
The Croats will be left to reflect on a tournament in which they performed admirably; losing to the world champions, drawing with a footballing powerhouse and hammering the Irish.
Slaven Bilic ends his reign in charge of Croatia in the knowledge that his side could have done much better if Ivan Rakitic had managed to send his unmarked header past Iker Casillas with ten minutes left.
Cesc Fabregas had started the opening two games of the tournament but was left out in favour of Fernando Torres in the final fixture of the group. However after a less than convincing performance, the...
The Croats will be left to reflect on a tournament in which they performed admirably; losing to the world champions, drawing with a footballing powerhouse and hammering the Irish.
Slaven Bilic ends his reign in charge of Croatia in the knowledge that his side could have done much better if Ivan Rakitic had managed to send his unmarked header past Iker Casillas with ten minutes left.
Cesc Fabregas had started the opening two games of the tournament but was left out in favour of Fernando Torres in the final fixture of the group. However after a less than convincing performance, the...
- 6/18/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
The Republic of Ireland became the first team to be eliminated from the 2012 European Championships as they fell to their worst defeat in a major tournament.
Goals from Fernando Torres (2), David Silva and Cesc Fabregas sealed a hard earned win for the defending champions, putting them in a strong position heading into their final game with Croatia.
For their part, Ireland were lacklustre in defence and showed no signs of ever taking the game to the Spanish. Another goal in the opening moments of the game set the tone and Vicente del Bosque’s team cruised to victory, making no fewer than 859 successful passes.
Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni had stuck to the 4-4-2 formation that was unsuccessful against Croatia, but brought in Simon Cox for Kevin Doyle at the front.
For a minute at least it looked like the change would have the desired effect as Simon Cox drilled...
Goals from Fernando Torres (2), David Silva and Cesc Fabregas sealed a hard earned win for the defending champions, putting them in a strong position heading into their final game with Croatia.
For their part, Ireland were lacklustre in defence and showed no signs of ever taking the game to the Spanish. Another goal in the opening moments of the game set the tone and Vicente del Bosque’s team cruised to victory, making no fewer than 859 successful passes.
Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni had stuck to the 4-4-2 formation that was unsuccessful against Croatia, but brought in Simon Cox for Kevin Doyle at the front.
For a minute at least it looked like the change would have the desired effect as Simon Cox drilled...
- 6/14/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.