Claudio Ranieri was sacked as manager of Inter Milan yesterday and today during the formal unveiling of their new manager, Andrea Stramaccioni, they get a little surprise. That surprise was former Inter, and current Man City player, Mario Balotelli. According to the BBC, Balotelli drove a ferrari to meet up with his former teammates at Inter's training grounds. It's just Balotelli being Balotelli.
Stoke City vs Manchester City
Joe Hart inches away from sending Manchester City into the next round of the Europa League. City were behind 2-0 until the 60' when Aguero put them on the board. Still down 1-3 on aggregate City needed a miracle, and a miracle they almost got. Two late goals, a Balotelli penalty and Aguero's second in the 82', made it 3-3 on aggregate. They needed one more to advance. What a come back this would have been!
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| photo by zawtowers |
- by Hiten Mandalia, writing from West London
In Scotland, even before the season’s started, you know the league’s going to be won by Celtic or Rangers. It’s happened for many years over the past, with Hearts providing the slimmest of challenges to come in between the old firm rivals. Both clubs are financially stronger than the other teams in the SPL, henceforth, getting better players. Their occurrences in the Champions League, may it not be regularly, does attract some attention worldwide, but the failure for either club to be in the Champions League every season suggests how weak the SPL is.
The two best clubs in Scotland aren’t getting into Europe’s premier competition every season, while sometimes, they, along with Hearts and Motherwell, have to settle for Europa League football. Let’s be honest, the Europa League isn’t the most attractive competition. They want to aspire for the Champions League. Sometimes, Rangers and Celtic fail to get into Europe at all. It goes to suggest how weak the SPL is and that the best teams in Scotland fail to do well in Europe.
The same can be said about La Liga and the dominance of Barcelona and Real Madrid. They do brilliant in the league and they tend to do well in the Champions League. They have constant European football, with rich history and some of the greatest names in football.
Over the last few seasons, Real Madrid have splashed the cash, noticeably, buying Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United for a record £80m. They have got superstars in their team and they will continue to get stronger.
Their rivals, Barcelona, have a strong team, who play football out of this word and have equally good superstars as Madrid. They’ve won La Liga over the last few season and they’ve won the Champions League, three out of the last six seasons. This current team could go down as one of the greatest ever. However, these two giants are widening the gap from their La Liga rivals.
Both teams are in powerful financial positions, and they will continue to attract the best players in the planet, due to their rich histories and simply because they are Real Madrid and Barcelona. Barcelona beat Osasuna 8-0 on the weekend, while Madrid suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Levante.
Madrid lost, which was a surprise, which happens in football, while Barcelona’s 8-0 win over Osasuna shows the gap between the top and the rest. It seems the race to win La Liga will be between Real Madrid and Barcelona, until the other clubs reach their standards.
The main question is, will the Premier League result to a two horse race for the title for the next eight to ten years?
Manchester City’s billionaire owners suggest that Man City will attract the biggest names in world football as they have potential to reach new height. The fact that they’re now in the Champions League will raise the stature of the club. Players can go there because of potential and ambition, but some will go there for the large chunks of money that they’ll be receiving.
They’ve currently got a good squad who will challenge for major honours and they will be a constant threat for the Premier League title. They’ve got a bright future ahead of them, and by the looks of things, they will be up there for many years to come.
On the red side of Manchester are their rivals, Manchester United. They’ve got a fantastic team, with a great manager and world class players are always linked to a move to Old Trafford. With a rich history and never-say-die attitude, one can see why players would want to play for Man United. They’ve been the most successful side in Premier League history and there’ no doubt that they’ll always be at the top challenging on all fronts. So will the Premier League now be dominant in Manchester between the two Manchester clubs, or will Chelsea and Arsenal provide a constant threat?
Arsenal seem to be going through a transitional stage and major improvements need to be made at the Emirates, so they will find it difficult to get into the Champions League, never mind challenging for the league. Once Arsenal discover their old selves, they will be a real threat.
Chelsea will remain a real threat, despite the billons at Man City. The title has either gone to Chelsea or Manchester United over the last seven years, so only a fool will disregard Chelsea as a major threat to Man United and Man City. They have a great team spirit and experience on how to win leagues, so that could benefit them over Man City. However, it has been argued that they’ve got many ageing players which could be negative, as age will be catching up on them. That’s been recently evident of Frank Lampard, when he’s played for England and for Chelsea against Man United.
Then there’s Liverpool who will pose a real challenge for the title within the next few years and Tottenham are playing really well, so they can’t be ruled out. Their Champions League experience from last season will have taught them a lot.
Some have argued that Man United and Man City are getting stronger each season and they’ll build a big bridge between them and the rest of the league like, just like in the SPL and La Liga. That may be true, but there’s always a good possibility that the other teams around them will get even stronger to prevent them from happening.
Yes, Real Madrid and Barcelona may lose the odd game, but that will be a shock result, while in the Premier League, anyone can beat anyone, no matter where you are in the league.
However, the big difference between the Premier League and SPL and La Liga at the current time is that a possible of six teams can win the Premier League, while in Scotland and Spain, the audience already know that the title is going to one of two destinations. There isn’t much for them to compete with. You just have to look at the point’s comparison between the 2nd placed team and the 3rd placed to in the SPL and La Liga and compare it to the Premiership.
The question is, will the Premier League eventually become like La Liga and SPL?
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| photo via manutd.com |
- by Hiten Mandalia, writing from West London
Ferguson started with two of his new signings, with De Gea in goal and Ashley Young playing on the left side of midfield, while City's £38m signing, Sergio Aguero had to settle for a place on the bench. They started with Dzeko and the ever controversial Balotelli in attack.
Manchester United started the better of the two teams, having most of the possession and creating more chances then their opponents, while City lacked energy and enthusiasm. However, they took the lead with a Lescott header from SIlva's free kick. It was totally unexpected as City weren't much in the game. Seven minutes later on the stroke of half time, Dzkeo scored with a fierce shot from 20 yards out. The United defenders didn't close him down early enough, while Dzeko saw De Gea off his line. The ball swerved passed the United goalkeeper right at the last, and City went into the break leading 2-0.
With City's good looking defence, people had expected them to restrict Man United form coming back. However, with United being United with their never say attitude, both sets of supporters knew what to expect.
United made some changes in the second half, with Jones, Cleverly, and Rafael coming up, as United had an average age of 23 when they started the second half.
They started the second half like a bullet. They went straight for attack, as you'd expect from United. Seven minutes into the second half, they got their first goal. Young being the creator from a free kick, with Smalling tapping it past Joe Hart, He won't have an easier finish all season. The players and fans could sense the confidence growing that they could get back into the game. Minutes later, a sensational move allowed Nani to equalise. Some beautiful inter-changing, one touch play between Rooney, Cleverly and Nani at the edge of the City box allowed Man United to walk through the heart of the City defence before Nani placed it into the middle of the net. It was a goal Barcelona and Brazil would have been proud of.
Despite all the millions they've spent, none of the City players produced a display that anyone associated with the club could have been happy with. They didn't create many chances in the second half, but credit goes to United from preventing them from happening. They didn't have any real enthusiasm about the game and they played some boring football at times. With the players at their disposal, one would have expected them to play with some spark and flair. Or it could have come down to Mancini's Italian mentality.
To add, Balotelli showed once again the immature kid that he is. As soon as he was substituted, he went straight to the dressing room, but he did come back to watch the rest of the game. He needs to sort his attitude out before the manager, the board and the fans get sick of him.
Deep into injury time, Man City had a free kick and they could have won it, but Rooney cleared it into the City half which allowed Nani to chase the ball like it was it's prey. His constant chasing forced Kompany to make a mistake, which then put Nani through on goal, one on one with Joe Hart. He went round the goalkeeper and scored the winner in the 94th minute. The players, the bench and the fans went ecstatic into what proved to be one of the best Community Shield's in years.
The joy on everyone's face's at Man United showed that this was more then just a friendly. It's given them a boost going into the new season believing that they can retain their title.
All of United's players looked impressive, as well as the youngsters. De Gea didn't have the best of first half's, but it may have been down to nerves, but he gained his composure in the second half. On the other hand, the City players looked dysfunctional at times and they lacked that cutting edge. Despite that, they will be a force to be reckoned with come start of the season
It was typical Ferguson, typical United but with some new faces. Despite the new faces, the never say die attitude will never be erased from Old Trafford.
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| photo by TBWABusted |
- by Joe Curtis, writing from Miami, FL
The main club believed to be after Sneijder is Premier League Champions Manchester United. Sneijder is believed to be the perfect replacement for Paul Scholes. Man United legend Gary Neville praised Sneijder stating that "he has the intelligence to play in areas where he is difficult to pick up, he can score goals and he can assist. He would be a great signing but I'm sure there are a number of clubs looking at him. I hope Manchester United get him but I don't know whether that will be the case."
SAF, however, claimed it was unlikely that United would acquire the Dutch midfielder: "We are looking at some things but I am not so sure Sneijder will be easy to get. I could pick three or four players to come in but they wouldn't be good enough for us, so there is no point."
Over the past few weeks there have been reports that the Sneijder deal had stalled due to wage discussions. United may not be able to afford Sneijder, but their neighbors could. Yesterday another rumor surfaced. On Saturday the Gazzetta dello Sport ran a story claiming Manchester City were set to sign Sneijder for a fee of €36 million with a salary of €6 million a season. City supporters had pulled a fast one on their rivals. The excitement died down when City manager Roberto Mancini released a statement denying that the club had come to an agreement to acquire the midfielder.
In response to the speculation that he was on his way to join City Sneijder said: "I can be very brief about the interest from Manchester United and City: I haven't spoken with either of those two clubs, so I can't really say much about my future at the moment."
What are your thoughts? Will Sneijder join United, City, or stay with Inter?
- by Andrew McCarten, writing from Miami, FL via. Ireland
The substitution took place in the 32nd minute of the match, and Balotelli exchanged words with Roberto Mancini before taking his place on the bench, and failing to come back out after the first half. Balotelli has never been far from the spotlight and criticism, and given his past, it would seems his reputation is almost beyond repair even at such a young age, with this another mark on his record. Because, to many, an attempted back-heel in a pre-season friendly might be seen as immature, at the most.
If fellow City team mates Edin Dzeko or Shaun Wright-Phillips would have attempted it, it would likely not have been anywhere near as covered and condemned as it has been. In fact, what would the reaction be if Lionel Messi attempted it, or another Barcelona player? Would he be praised for his creativity and love of the game, with the same old cliches bandied about regarding the “Barcelona way,” La Masia, “mas que un club,” total football, etc? Even with the attempt ending up off-target like Balotelli’s, the little Argentine would likely be praised and saluted for his unique skill and artistic license with the ball, rather than having questions about his professionalism and maturity raised; a model for the youth to enjoy football and play beautiful. So why is Balotelli judged so much more harshly?
This is not to in any way defending Mario Balotelli for previous actions, or to make a definitive statement on his personal character and his flaws or lack thereof. Rather, football fans should take this most recent “incident” and put it more into a rational, unbiased perspective. With no preconceived notions of the player, the action in itself is barely noteworthy, certainly not front page news on the world’s major football media tabloids and websites. But it seems Balotelli, rightly or wrongly, has been labelled the ever-troublesome problem child yet again.
LA Galaxy vs Manchester City
From Manchester City's website:
Manchester City Football Club is delighted to announce that it has teamed up with the global sports video game company, Electronic Arts Inc., as its new partner.
The video, which is currently one of the first FIFA 12 gameplay edits available, was designed especially for Manchester City fans, showcasing the Club’s stars. Having captured 360 degree 3D headscan shots of the entire first team squad, EA SPORTS have for the first time recreated the most authentic representations of the players, which will be featured in the eagerly anticipated UK release of FIFA12 on the 30th September 2011.
EA SPORTS will also be investing in dedicated experiential gaming areas, in around the Etihad Stadium, to further enhance City Square and the family zone within the concourse.
EA is the world’s leading interactive entertainment software studio, which develops, publishes and distributes interactive software worldwide for video game systems, personal computers, wireless devices and the Internet.
Manchester City have acquired by Gaël Clichy, who was entering the final year of his contract with Arsenal, for a reported fee of £7 million today.
“We would like to thank Gael for eight years of terrific service to Arsenal, during which time he gave absolutely everything for the Club." Arsenal Manager Arsène Wenger said. "He has grown and developed so much since joining us in 2003, and has been a crucial part of the team over recent seasons. Gael leaves with our respect and best wishes. We wish him the very best for his future career.”
“I have had eight fantastic years at Arsenal and made many friends." Clichy said. "I have so many great memories from my time at Highbury and Emirates Stadium. I would like to say thank you to everyone at Arsenal for all of their support and friendship. I also want to send a big thank you to all the Arsenal supporters, who have always been so good to me.”
Clichy will play with some familiar face. Patrick Vieira and Kolo Toure were his teammates at Arsenal. "I can't wait to get started and I think anything is possible with this team," Clichy said. "When I first came to England, it was Kolo Toure and Patrick Vieira who took me under their wing and really looked after me."
Sources: ESPNSoccernet.com, Arsenal.com, USAToday.com
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| photo by Jan S0L0 |
Manchester City was reportedly ready to make a £150 million bid for Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo said that he would not join Man City. "Money is not the most important thing." he said, "If it was for money I could have double what I have. If it was for money I would leave.
Madrid manager Jose Mourinho was part of the reason why CR is staying, and he even stated that he "would sign for 10 years. For Madrid, until the end of [his] career." Today we found out how important Jose Mourinho was to his decision.
"It’s flattering to be offered like £20m a year - it’s very good, but I spoke to my agent and I think it’s better to stay in Madrid because this year we’re going to be the best. This season we are going to be a big force. Jose Mourhino is staying at Madrid so I stay. If he went to Chelsea then I would have left. I would have gone to Manchester City. But now he’s staying, I’m staying.”
Ronaldo has scored 86 goals in 89 games for Madrid since arriving at the club from Manchester United in for a world record £80 million in 2009.
Sources: soccernet.espn.go.com
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| [photo by Alfonso Jimenez] |
Manchester City defender Kolo Toure was handed a six month suspension.
The player is also to be target tested for a period of two years from 26 May 2011.
The FA enclose preliminary written reasons from the Commission Chairman:
1. The Player Kolo Toure admitted a doping offence contrary to Regulation 3 of the FA Doping
Regulations 2010-2011. It is his first offence.
2. Applying Regulation 67 the Player satisfied the Commission (to the requisite standard)
a. (i) The doping offence involved a specified substance. It did.
b. (ii) how the specified substance entered his system, namely through his taking of water tablets
obtained through his wife.
c. (iii) that he did not intend to enhance sporting performance or to mask the use of a performance
enhancing substance.
3. Accordingly, the criterion in assessing any reduction in what would otherwise be the minimum
penalty of two years’ suspension is the player’s degree of fault. The Player accepted he was at fault
and with that concession we agree. He was at fault in the limited and perfunctory efforts he made in
relation to the water tablets; the checks he made in relation to those tablets were inadequate and fell
some way below what it would be reasonable to expect of a professional footballer in these
circumstances.
4. In fixing the appropriate period of suspension we had regard to all the relevant matters we have read
and heard during the course of the hearing. The period of suspension suggested by Mr Lewis QC was
one not in excess of three months. With respect, we disagree. In our judgment, the appropriate period
of suspension is one of 6 months commencing on 2 March 2011.
5. His status during his suspension is as provided by Regulation 32: he cannot participate in any football
match or any other football related activity other than anti-doping education or rehabilitation
programmes.
6. With effect from the date of the hearing (26 May 2011) and for a period of two years thereafter, he
will be subject to target testing as provided for by Schedule 1 paragraph 10 of the Doping
Regulations and the Disciplinary Procedures Regulation 8.1.
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| [photo by Adam Bowie] |
- by Hiten Mandalia, writing from West London
An average game which had high expectations failed to live up to expectations. A first Manchester Derby at Wmebley in the FA Cup Semi Final. Man Utd aiming for the treble while Man City were aiming to get to their first final since 1976. On paper, it looked like a mouth-watering game, but in reality, it failed to live up to the hype.
Man Utd had dominated the first 30 minutes at Wembley with Berbatov having two great opportunites within as many minutes. His first chance was saved brilliantly by Joe Hart, who’s still proving why he’s England’s No.1. A minute later, Berbatov saw his shot fly over the bar from two yards out. It was a golden opportunity, and maybe that’s why Ferguson has relegated him to the bench in recent games. Had Rooney or Hernandez, or even Owen been in his posiiton, you could have bet your life that they would have scored. That proved to be Utd’s best chances of the game.
Since then, Man City got back into the game and started finding areas to shoot in.
Man City started the second half strongly, which led to a goal, ten minutes into the second half. A poor goal kick from Van Der Sar instantly pressurised the Utd defence, and then a moment of madness from Carrick allowed Yaya Toure to bust past two defenders and slot the ball past the goalkeeper. The celebrations from the players and the fans said how much that goal meant to them.
Carrick performed well against Chelsea in the champions league, but other then that, he’s been poor this season. It went to show as his mistake led to Man City’s goal. He passed straight to Toure and the the disappointment on Carrick’s face after the goal told the whole story. He hasn’t been the player he was two seasons ago. He’s proving to be a liability to Utd.
Man City then went onto dominate the second half, with Man Utd’s only real chance coming from a well struck Nani free kick, which was well saved by Hart. As much as Scholes will be rememberd for his goals and his passes, he’ll also be remembered for his poor tackling ability. He lashed in at Zabaletta’s leg, which resulted in Zabaletta bleeding and Scholes being sent off for a rational tackle.
Many die hard Utd supporters agreed that as good as Scholes is, his tackling ability is poor and he deserved that red card.
City dashed Utd’s chances of winning a treble, while City aim to win their first trophy since 1976. However, it could be argued that Man Utd’s main priorities lay in the Premiership and Champions League, while Mancini is re-paying the faith and millions of pounds the owners have booted into the club. Man City deserved to progress into the final, where they will face Stoke City, who beat Bolton 5-0.
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| [photo via manutd.com] |
United's defense had a few casualties, first John O'Shea, then his replacement Rafael. Both O'Shea and Rafael suffered hamstring injuries. Rafael's twin brother Fabio replaced him. SAF did all United fans a favor in the 61' when Valencia came on for Nani. The past few weeks Nani seems to just cause turnover after turnover. Valencia, however, made an impact in the 75' when his pass was sent forward to Giggs, who then found Chicharito once again inside the 6 yard box.
It looked like smooth sailing for the final 10 minutes, then Wes Brown headed the ball into his own net. The scoreline was now 2-1, Marseille needing one more goal to eliminate United. Manchester United was able to hold of Marseilles attack for the final 8 minutes and the 4 minutes of added time.
SAF thoughts on Chicharito's performance:
"We thought he was a young lad who was going to progress and maybe have to get used to our training and English football, but he's been an absolute star and a real bonus for us," SAF told MUTV.
"His movement is fantastic, he's always on the move, and his timing of runs is terrific. He's always on the last defender."
The victory gives United their 11th Champions League quarter-final appearance. Next round's draw takes place on Friday.
Wayne Rooney
Manchester United vs Manchester City
“I think it’s the best goal I’ve ever scored, I saw it coming over and I thought, why not? I was just delighted to see it go in the net and get the three points. Nine times out of 10 they go into the stand… it’s the first overhead kick I’ve scored since turning professional.” - Wayne Rooney on his Game Winner
- by Sabrina Blanks, writing from Charlotte, NC
The first derby between the two sides that would eventually become Manchester City and Manchester United took place almost exactly 129 years ago, and while United dominated the matchup through the 1990s, City have been applying pressure in recent years. For the derby matches played as part of the Premier League, City has 37 wins, United has 57, and there are 48 draws. The overall derby record stands at 42 City wins, 49 draws, and 65 United wins.
