All About News Entertainment Education And Sports: December 2017

Saturday 30 December 2017

Eden Hazard to Real Madrid: Florentino Perez will NOT sanction Chelsea transfer

CHELSEA are unlikely to lose Eden Hazard to Real Madrid as club president Florentino Perez remains unconvinced of his talents. By Luke Gardener / Published 31st December 2017. Chelsea star Eden Hazard will NOT be moving to Real Madrid GETTY. Chelsea …
Chelsea news: Why Antonio Conte would sell Real Madrid target Eden Hazard – BBC Sport man Express.co.uk
Conte Pleased Witn Chelsea Win Over Stoke, Focuses On Arsenal Clash Complete Sports Nigeria
Chelsea to resume Eden Hazard contract talks as they target Ross Barkley in January Telegraph.co.uk
The Independent –
Іnsіdеr Cаr Nеws –
Sports Illustrated – Goal.com
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Thierry Hazard, father of Eden, has made some startling comments about his son's future just says ahead of the January transfer window.
The Chelsea winger, who joined from Lille in 2012, has been in excellent form this season and is considered by many to be one of the finest players in the Premier League.
Hazard, 26, has regularly spoken of his desire to play for Real Madrid and has also been linked with a move to Manchester United in recent weeks.
Currently in the midst of a very busy Christmas period, Italian coach Antonio Conte urged his players to ignore the rumours about their future
"A difficult period is starting," he said regarding speculation surrounding the future of Hazard and David Luiz.
"Especially for every player, for every coach. In this period there are a lot of rumours. Some rumours are true, some are wrong.
"There are a lot of rumours now. We must be ready to face these rumours. We must go game-by-game also because we have to play every three days. It’s not right that these rumours disturb us."
HAZARD'S FATHER GIVES HUGE UPDATE ON SON'S FUTURE
Thierry Hazard has spoken to Belgian media ahead of Chelsea's upcoming games against Stoke City and Arsenal.
The Belgian winger has two-and-a-half years remaining on his current deal at Stamford Bridge but is not interested in signing an extension, according to his father.
"Eden has refused a contract extension because he sees himself playing at Real Madrid," said Hazard's father, as per Belgian media outlet Le Soir .
"If the opportunity ari

Antonio Conte reveals the date when David Luiz and Charly Musonda will return for Chelsea

Antonio Conte has revealed that David Luiz and Charly Musonda should have recovered from their respective injuries in time for the FA Cup clash with Norwich City.
The Brazilian has yet to feature for the Blues since the 4-0 win at Qarabag in the Champions League back in November due to a knee injury, while the winger is still absent with a groin injury.
Although the manager would have liked the pair to be available over the busy festive period, Conte has stated that they won't be ready for the upcoming games against Stoke City and Arsenal.
Apart from Luiz and Musonda, the Italian has the same players from the 2-0 win over Brighton at his disposal for tomorrow's game against the Potters at Stamford Bridge.
Conte, speaking to the media, said: "The same players from the last game are available.
"Musonda and Luiz are improving a lot and their recovery is very close. I don't know about the next game.
"But for sure against Norwich, Luiz and Musonda will be available."
With the Blues coming up against the Gunners after facing lowly Stoke, Conte has insisted that he will not rest his players ahead of the match at the Emirates.
"I think that tomorrow we have a difficult game against Stoke," added Conte.

"As you remember last season in the same period we suffered a lot to beat them at home. I remember the game really well.
"We must pay great attention. I think we have to go game by game.
"It's normal when you play every three days, I have to make rotations and gives rests to players that are playing every game.
"At the same time, all my players deserve credit and I trust all my players."

Conte reveals the player he don't want in Chelsea

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is hoping to reunite with midfielder Arturo Vidal after the pair worked together at Juventus.
The Italian is looking to fortify his team in the January transfer window and why it is nearly impossible to imagine he could get Vidal next month, he is not ruling out the possibility of making a move for the player who is valued at £53million by Bayern Munich
After initially refusing to talk about a player in a different team in his post-match press conference, Conte did eventually reveal his thoughts on the Chile international after their 2-0 defeat of Brighton.
“I don’t speak about players from other teams’ card,” he said.
“I must be honest, it's not right to talk about a player of another team. Especially if you try to link this player with us.
“But Arturo is a fantastic player, I have a great respect for Arturo, and we spent many years in Juventus together.
“If we go to war, I’d always want him with me.”
Conte won three Serie A title with Vidal at Juventus and with the Chilean’s contract at Bayern coming to an end in the summer of 2019, Bayern might be tempted to cash in on him if they fail to convince him to sign a new contract.

Hazard reveals the best between Messi and Ronaldo

Chelsea attacker Eden Hazard is the latest player to join the debate of who is the best between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Messi scored from the penalty spot and assisted one of the three goals scored against Real Madrid on Saturday at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Ronaldo had a decent year all the same despite the El-Clasico defeat, he won the Balon d’Or and FIFA’s the best prize, La Liga and the Champions League.
Chelsea, Conte send special Christmas greetings to fans
Messi was able to make some significance despite major accolades eluding him on the European stage and domestic scene. The Argentine broke some records during the El Clasico, having the most goals and having the most assists in the El- Clasico history.
During a FaceTime call with former Chelsea player Jason Cundy, Hazard admitted that Messi is number one
"When you are playing football, you want to play against the best team in the world, against the best player in the world,” the Belgian said.

'REAL MADRID in trouble for what messi told Cristiano Ronaldo

The Spanish coach feels that both teams come into the game on the back of a good run and expects a good battle...
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Former Real Madrid player Miguel Angel Portugal feels that the Los Blancos have not given up on catching La Liga leaders Barcelona as they prepare for the El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday.
The showdown between Spain's two biggest teams has already generated plenty of excitement all over the world and Miguel Angel Portugal, who is currently coaching Indian Super League (ISL) outfit Delhi Dynamos, shares the same.
Miguel Portugal, who spent four years at the Santiago Bernabeu, has also coached the Real Madrid B and C teams in the past.
"As long as there are matches to be played, there will always be chances to catch up. Real Madrid had never given up and they are not going to give up now," Portugal told Goal.
He went on to state that Real Madrid are coming into this game in a good frame of mind, mentally and physically, after their victorious FIFA Club World Cup campaign earlier this month.

Lionel Messi has done it again against Real Madrid
The Barcelona superstar has broken two incredible records in El Clasico today
Messi looks to be sending Barcelona on their way to victory at the Bernabeu
READ MORE: Lionel Messi gives green light to pivotal Barcelona signing in January
Lionel Messi has broken two records today as his goal puts Barcelona 2-0 up against Real Madrid in El Clasico, further confirming his status as a legend of the game.
The Argentine forward has long been regarded as the best player in the world and perhaps the greatest of all time, and he continues to make history with his stellar goalscoring performances.
Messi notably hit the winner at the Bernabeu last season, with his stoppage-time strike in a 3-2 win over Real his 500th goal for Barcelona.
The 30-year-old is now on 526 goals for the Catalan giants – the most ever scored by a single player for a European club, overtaking Gerd Muller’s tally of 525 for Bayern Munich.
Lionel Messi has a great record against Real Madrid
As well as that, Messi has netted his 17th La Liga goal against Real Madrid, meaning no other player in the Spanish top flight has scored more goals against Los Blancos than him.
It’s painful reading for Real Madrid fans, with the score at 2-0 at the time of writing and Messi set to enjoy all the headlines if the result stays as it is.

Antonio Conte wants David luiz's back to Chelsea in January

Defending Premier League champions Chelsea have struggled for form at times this season.
Antonio Conte's side are third behind the two Manchester clubs and have already lost four times - to Burnley, Manchester City, Crystal Palace and West Ham.
The Blues have progressed to the knockout stages of the Champions League, but face a tough test against Barcelona after finishing second in their group behind Roma.
To make matters worse, it's suggested that Conte has clashed with defender David Luiz, who was a key part to Chelsea's title success last season.
The Brazilian has rarely featured since falling out of favour after the 3-0 defeat away to Roma in October.
Conte insists Luiz hasn't had any game time in the Premier League due to a knee injury, but the 30-year-old has been heavily linked to Real Madrid and Juventus over the last month.
THE REPLACEMENT
Perhaps already planning for the defender's exit, the Chelsea boss reportedly has his eye on a world-class replacement and wants to make a bid in January.
According to the Mirror , the Italian wants to sign AC Milan's Leonardo Bonucci, who he knows very well.
The defender played under Conte for three years at Juventus, as well as regularly in the Italian national team for another two.

A Chelsea star has reportedly offered himself to La Liga giants FC Barcelona, who are looking to bolster their squad in the January transfer window.

Read: Willian & Morata Fire Chelsea Into Last Four

David Luiz has been frozen out of the Chelsea line up in recent months, although Antonio Conte claims the defender is injured.

Luiz and Conte were reportedly involved in a row earlier in the season which resulted in the Brazilian being left out the match day squad.

Now, according to Catalunya Radio, the defender took advantage of his recent trip to Barcelona for medical reasons to test the waters about a possible move to the Camp Nou.

The 30-year-old could be seen as a replacement for Javier Mascherano, who is reportedly set to leave the Catalan giants for the Chinese Super League next month.

Read: Reports: Luiz Linked With Shock Move

Luiz hasn't featured for the Premier League champions since the match against Bournemouth on 28 October 2017.

Do you think Luiz would be a good signing for Barca? Have your say in the comment section below.

Manchester united say no to hazard condition: if this is why hazard want to join us then let him remain in Chelsea

Jose Mourinho is in unchartered territory.
Second in the table and without the slightest concern about his position.
His biggest issue this season has been with regard to just how fat and long his next
Manchester United contract will be - not whether he will still be in a job this time next year.
Of course his position shouldn’t be under threat.
Two trophies in his first season at Old Trafford and with his side on course for their best
Premier League campaign since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement, United are undeniably on an upward trajectory - even if that has been lost in the slipstream of Manchester City’s incredible form.
But Mourinho operates on the edge. His remarkable success has been produced in the constant shadow of the axeman.
Which is why he is in such an unusual position now.
Chelsea twice sacked their greatest manager of all time despite seven trophies - including three titles - over two glory-laden spells at Stamford Bridge.
At Real Madrid he walked away before he was pushed a year after breaking Pep Guardiola’s dominance of La Liga.
Mourinho is used to working at clubs where nothing but the best will do - and he thrives in such surroundings.
United aspire to the same - and maintained such standards under Ferguson’s 26-year reign.
But they are also a club with the type of perspective rarely seen among Europe’s elite.

Hazard has agree to join Manchester United but on a condition

Antonio Conte has rarely hidden his displeasure over Chelsea's transfer business since his arrival in the summer of 2016, and if the latest rumours surrounding the Blues prove to be true then his highly combustible, eye-catching antics on the touchline are unlikely to be limited to his technical area.
Get this: Manchester United are set to pay £90million to sign Eden Hazard, David Luiz is apparently off to Arsenal (or Newcastle United or Barcelona) and Leon Bailey will be staying with Bayer Leverkusen, according to the latest reports.
Yet there's a bit more to this talk of big name departures and disappointed bids for Bundesliga wingers. How much stock should supporters be placing in the latest batch of Chelsea gossip?
First off, Hazard to United. Stamford Bridge won't easily forget the state that Jose Mourinho left the club in when he was sacked for a second time two seasons ago, nor should it be too hard to remember what happened between the Belgian playmaker and his former manager.
There were the clashes over whether the midfielder's injuries were genuine, comments in the press designed to provide the player and criticise his attitude, conspiracy theories over his role in a dressing room revolt against the coach and far more besides.
Meanwhile, under Conte, Hazard has not only returned to top form but hit new heights in a team playing with the sort of confidence, ambition and coherency that didn't previously seem possible outside of the early weeks of Mourinho's third title-winning season, back when Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa were fit and effective enough to do what they pleased.
It seems odd that Chelsea would even consider a bid as low as £90million given the amount that has been spent on lesser talents over the past few months, and why would the Belgian want to rekindle his loveless relationship with the Portuguese?
Frankly, it doesn't make a whole lot of sense, but that hasn't stopped transfer rumours proving to true before. The Sun believe it's on. Make your own minds up over whether a switch to Old Trafford is more or less likely that the long-standing threat of a defection to Real Madrid.

Manchester United are reportedly now ahead of Real Madrid and Barcelona in the queue to seal the transfer of Antoine Griezmann as Atletico Madrid look to sell him abroad.
According to the Daily Mirror , the Spanish giants are unhappy with how Barca have conducted themselves in their approach over the move, leading them to report their rivals to FIFA.
This follows similar claims from Don Balon that Griezmann feared his move to the Nou Camp could be in doubt, and the Mirror suggest that is now a firm decision in Atletico Madrid’s mind.
They claim the club would now be particularly keen to push for their French forward to move abroad, with United seemingly his biggest admirers in the Premier League.
MORE: Manchester United transfer news
Griezmann, 26, has been one of Europe’s top attacking players over the last few years and could fit in perfectly at Old Trafford.
Romelu Lukaku has faded after a fine start to the season and doubts remain over his temperament in the big games.
Griezmann could be an upgrade up front and would also provide options in a variety of attacking midfield positions, making him arguably a bargain at his reported £88million buy-out clause in this current market.

Eden Hazard rejects Real Madrid move and Aubameyang signs - Chelsea's January transfer hopes

The January transfer window opens in less than two weeks and Chelsea are already looking to do some business in the new year.
After a frustrating summer in the Blues missed out on several top targets, Antonio Conte has publicly called for the club to respect his record and back him in the transfer market.
Although the winter market can be a tough time in which to attract top stars, Chelsea's spending power should be strong enough that they can get the deal done if they find the right man.
A few injuries in key places and the champions could be in trouble so Conte will no doubt have a list of areas in the squad he would like to improve given the right amount of spend in the next month.
But where and how much? And what should the Blues be looking to seal during January and what are their hopes for the month ahead?

Man Utd set to outbid Real in the race to sign Eden Hazard
Manchester United has entered the race to sign Real Madrid’s target Eden Hazard and the Red Devils are set to outbid the European Champions for the Chelsea star, according to reports.
Jose Mourinho is planning to smash the British record and he has prepared a lump sum of £90million to prise away the Belgian from Stamford Bridge come next summer, according to The Sun.
Mourinho believes that he can beat the likes of Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain to his signature.
Chelsea defender David Luiz seen in Barcelona
Hazard, 26, has already turned down a new £300,000-a-week four-year Stamford Bridge deal as he considers his options.
Hazard wants to play under Zinedine Zidane at Real Madrid and he has expressed his desire to play for Los Merengues after stating his desire some months back.
And reports in Spain claim he will join the Spanish giants after next summer's World Cup in Russia.
Real Madrid president is reluctant in making the deal a reality due to the development of Marco Asensio at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Lionel Messi not happy with Barcelona’s January transfer plan, wants reported €140m target
Barcelona icon Lionel Messi’s opinion is being consistently linked with transfer talk concerning the club, and it’s claimed he’s not impressed.
The 30-year-old has arguably deserved a say in such matters given what he’s offered to the club over the past 16 years, scoring 525 goals in 607 appearances in all competitions which has led to countless trophies and individual accolades.
As he enters the latter stages of his career, he’ll surely want to know what the Catalan giants intend on doing to remain competitive, and so it does seem to make sense that reports continue to suggest he is having a say in such matters.
According to Don Balon , as re-reported by The Express , he’s less than impressed with the possibility of Gremio youngster Arthur arriving in the January transfer window as an alternative to Liverpool playmaker Philippe Coutinho.
And who could blame him. One major problem from Barcelona’s perspective is the price-tag, with Guillem Balague dismissing talk that Coutinho could cost €140m, as per Sky Sports , but that remains the figure being touted by the Catalan media as he concedes.
However, there’s no denying the huge difference between the two reported targets. One is a talent and top prospect who has made an impression in his homeland, while the other is a 25-year-old world-class player reaching his prime and displaying his skills in the Premier League on a weekly basis.
Coutinho has scored 10 goals and provided eight assists in 17 appearances in all competitions so far this season, as he continues to play a fundamental role for the Reds despite all the talk surrounding his future.
In turn, if the report is true, it’s difficult to disagree with Messi being disappointed with Barcelona considering an alternative, but they’ve also got to be realistic and decide on what they can offer to finally try and prise him away from Anfield without overspending.

La Liga outfit Atletico Madrid have reported league leaders Barcelona to World Football governing body - FIFA over what the capital club described as an illegal approach attempt to France forward Antoine Griezmann away from the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano.
Griezmann, who signed a contract with Atlético in the summer lasting until 2021 to ward off interest from Manchester United has a release clause in his contract set at €100m (£88.4m) but Barcelona have been linked with a January approach for the forward signed from Real Sociedad in 2014.
Suarez speaks on Barcelona targets Coutinho and Griezmann
Man United target Griezmann causes massive racism row
Barcelona close to hijacking Man Utd's Griezmann deal
Fifa’s rules say a team interested in signing a player must first make contact with his club before being allowed to hold negotiations.
"Atlético Madrid have reported Barcelona for repeated contact with Griezmann and his people, contact which we are aware of.
"He is a player with a contract with Atlético Madrid and a long contract at that." a spokesman for Atlético told Mundo Deportivo
Fifa has since confirmed it has received Atlético’s complaint, according to the report
A report last week suggested Barça’s technical director, Roberto Fernández, had already held talks with the Frenchman’s entourage, with Guillermo Amor later admitting the club are interested in signing him.
"If that’s what the newspaper said, it’s possible …Maybe there’s been a meeting and things have advanced, although I don’t know.
"There’s a good understanding, maybe there have been talks. Rumours are inevitable in football. In the case of Griezmann, there are a lot of players we could be talking with, initiating some kind of relationship if there’s an opportunity. We’re obliged to have contact with players. It’s something which is done." Amor told Movistar+
Griezmann has been the subject of increased speculation over recent days after Barça’s director of institutional relations hinted it was “possible” the club’s president, Josep Maria Bartomeu, had held talks with the 26-year-old’s family.

REAL MADRID LEADING THE RACE TO SIGN Chelsea star which hasrd do not want that to happens

Real Madrid are said to be leading the race to sign David Luiz from Chelsea.
According to the Daily Mail , Zinedine Zidane’s side are the front-runners to land Luiz, who is in something of a scrutinised position at Stamford Bridge.
The Brazilian international is currently sidelined with a knee injury but was not a favoured option under manager Antonio Conte prior to him sustaining the niggling problem.
Conte opted on many occasions to use Andreas Christensen ahead of Luiz and his faith has been rewarded, with the young Dane turning in some hugely impressive displays both defensively and technically.
Real Madrid appear to be keen on bolstering their defence through the addition of Luiz, but are not alone in their interest. According to the Daily Mail, Serie A giants Juventus are also keen to sign the former PSG man.
Luiz will need to fight for his place when he returns to full fitness but with the January transfer window looming, it would come as no surprise to see him depart from Stamford Bridge.

What’s the story?

Antonio Conte wants to add fresh faces to the squad in the January transfer window and has been told that he needs to offload a couple of players to do so. The squad is already paper thin and the manager is finding it difficult to shuffle his squad week-in and week out.

However, as per reports in Daily Mail today, Conte has decided to let David Luiz join Real Madrid next month. The Brazilian defender had a fall out with the manager just before Chelsea's 1-0 win over Manchester United and has started just one game ever since.

In case you didn’t know…

Luiz is reportedly nursing a knee injury and the manager claims it is a 'very serious' one. However, some reports claim that he has just sent the Brazilian into exile.

The heart of the matter

Real Madrid are keen on signing a centre-back in January and have been linked with David Luiz in the past few weeks. The Spanish giants are aware of the defender's situation at the Premier League club and want to take him to Bernabeu.

Zidane is said to be a big fan of the defender who can also play in the midfield. The manager is desperate to sign a centre-back and reports in The Sun claim that the talks have already begun.

Luiz wants to leave Chelsea as he wants to make it to the World Cup in Russia. With the other Brazilian defenders playing regularly, Luiz feels that Tite will pick them over him for the World Cup squad.

Chelsea are preparing to open talks with Andreas Christensen at the start of 2018 after the young Dane impressed when replacing David Luiz in the starting XI, reports claim.
The 21-year-old’s current £35,000-a-week deal expires in 2020 but club chiefs are keen to tie him down on a more long-term basis.
Christensen has stepped up since Luiz’s public falling out with Chelsea boss Antonio Conte and he has started 16 games in all competitions in this season.
Having spent two seasons on loan with Bundesliga outfit Borussia Monchengladbach, Christensen has now proven himself to be more than capable of holding down a first-team spot and he is set for a bumper deal.
And Chelsea want him to put pen to paper before he travels to Russia as part of Denmark’s World Cup squad, according to the Evening Standard.
Contract talks with Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois remain a priority next year but Christensen is near the top of the pecking order for a new deal.
With Luiz set to leave Stamford Bridge sooner rather than later, Christensen has already plugged the hole in defence in his absence and he looks set to be a mainstay in the backline over the next decade.

Cristiano Ronaldo wants Barcelona to give his side a guard of honour ahead of Saturday's El Clasico clash.
Real Madrid superstar scored the winner for Los Blancos against Gremio last Saturday in the Club World Cup final - sealing their fifth trophy of 2017 and speaking immediately after the match against the Brazilian giants, the Portuguese international suggested the Catalan club pay their respects to them.
Ronaldo said: "It would be nice and I would like Barcelona to make for us the guard of honour."
However, his suggestion was promptly knocked back by both Barca director Guillermo Amor, as well as boss Ernesto Valverde.
Amor responded by saying: "We make it clear that we only do this when we participate in the competition.
Real Madrid go into El Clasico a whopping 11 points behind their rivals, and will be looking to inflict Barcelona's first defeat of the season.
Ronaldo has struggled in the Spanish top-flight this season, netting just four goals in 11 appearances.

Real Madrid captain has paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo after the striker’s stunning free kick that gave Real Madrid the victory in the World Club Cup against Gremio on Saturday in Abu Dhabi.

Ronaldo also edged out his arch-rival Lionel Messi to win his fifth Balon D’Or.

Ramos heaped praise on the Portuguese forward, calling him a 'legend' and one of the best players to ever take to the field of play.

Ramos told Telefoot 'Our No 7 is a striker like we have never seen before. He is already a legend and will be recognised as one of the best players in the history of football. Cristiano Ronaldo has a very important role in the team and everyone respects it.'

Sergio Ramos also paid tribute to Ronaldo's attacking partner, Karim Benzema, who also starred in the UAE.

Benzema forms one-third of the feared BBC partnership with Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, and Ramos said the Frenchman is one of the world's best finishers.

He said: 'Karim is a very good friend, and for me, he's a great striker with innate quality and talent, a scorer and a smuggler. I think he's an attacker who can be a problem for anyone, whatever the defender.'

Luis Suarez looked to have been denied a legitimate goal against Deportivo La Coruna, much to the frustration of his manager at Camp Nou
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Ernesto Valverde says it is "absurd" that La Liga officials are not backed up by technology after Luis Suarez appeared to be denied a legitimate goal in Sunday's romp over Deportivo La Coruna.
Suarez scored twice as league leaders Barca hammered Depor 4-0 at Camp Nou, but was denied a hat-trick after seeing an incredible 'rabona' finish from a narrow angle ruled not to have crossed the line late in the first half.
Replays seemed to justify Suarez's mystified response to a goal not being given.
La Liga is the only one of Europe's major leagues not to use goal-line technology or Video Assistant Referees (VAR) and Valverde was equally baffled at the lack of assistance given to officials in Spain's top flight.
He told reporters: "I didn't see it, but with the help of technology, you'll know if the ball has gone in or not, regardless of whether the VAR is used or not.
"I don't know why it is not used in La Liga.
"The equipment must be very expensive, but it's absurd that we don't have it. We're late and it shows."
The Royal Spanish Football Federation last month
confirmed VAR technology will be implemented in La Liga from the start of next season .
That, though, is of little consolation to Barca, who have already seen Lionel Messi denied a perfectly good goal this term during a top-of-the-table clash with Valencia .
The Argentine forward saw an effort fumbled by Los Che goalkeeper Neto in November, but none of the officials in charge of the contest spotted that the ball had crossed the line.

LaLiga giants, Barcelona will not give Real Madrid a guard of honour ahead of this Saturday’s Clasico despite their rivals being crowned champions of the world, According to manager, Ernesto Valverde.
Recall that Real Madrid superstar, Cristiano Ronaldo had mocked Barcelona after winning the FIFA Club World Cup, stating that the Catalan club needs to give his team a guard of honour before the El Clasico clash at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.
Valverde has completely ruled out any possibility of Barcelona’s players lining up to applaud their rival, Madrid.
Speaking to Spanish media over comment made by Ronaldo, he said, “it was unlikely his players would be giving a guard of honour this weekend. “I haven’t even paid it a thought,” he said.
Barcelona are currently number one on the LaLiga table, 11 points ahead of Real Madrid.

Roman Abramovich told to address "unhappy" Antonio Conte's biggest issue at Chelsea

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has been urged to make sure Antonio Conte is given the power to sign the players he wants to bring in once the transfer window opens in the new year.
Despite winning the Premier League last season, Conte felt hamstrung by Abramovich in the transfer market over the summer as he missed out on a number of top targets.
And former Liverpool defender Phil Thompson has said that the Russian must back his coach or risk seeing him walk away from the club less than two years after arriving in west London.
"I would think majorly," Thompson said when asked if he thought it could be an issue for the Blues once the window opens in a fortnight.
"I can't believe it at these football clubs now. I know things have changed with directors of football or you have other people, Steve Walsh at Everton and when he was at Leicester.
"It has to be the manager's final decision. They can flag-up players, he can give his ideas, they can give their ideas and I'm talking a transfer committee etc.
"But if your job is on the line, you should have the final say when it comes to players because you have to deal with them day in and day out.
"[If] you get somebody who you don't fancy, straight away when they come in you've got a bit of a downer on them because the committee have chosen him rather than this one that he wants.
"He's moaned all season so far about what's happened in the summer and the transfer policy and what's going to happen, I do not think he's happy."

B arcelona are in talks to bring forward plans to sign
Palmeiras defender Yerry Mina.
Barca have an option for the Colombia international, who was expected to arrive at the end of this season for €8m.
However, Don Balon says talks are now underway about signing Mina next month. Barca are prepared to cough up an extra €4m to add Mina to Ernesto Valverde's squad for €12m in January.
Indeed, it's suggested negotiations are now so advanced that Mina is due to become Barca's first signing of the winter market.
His arrival could allow Valverde to approve the departure of Javier Mascherano , who has asked to be allowed to leave in the coming weeks.

Spanish Champions Real Madrid has offered condition to Chelsea if they are to make the signing of Gareth Bale a reality in the next summer according to reports.
Real Madrid is willing to let go of Bale if they land Eden Hazard in return, the La Liga outfit is set to restructure their front line as their attackers are showing signs of weakness with Cristiano Ronaldo forgetting how to burst the net, Karim Benzema off form and Bale being plagued with injuries, Los Blancos will definitely embark on summer spending spree to reshuffle their squad.
According to Spanish outlet Don Balon , Real Madrid has offered Bale to Chelsea as a part deal for Hazard.
Chelsea star David Luiz set to quit Stamford Bridge
Ronaldo ready to retire at Real Madrid
It is said Zidane feels Bale’s days at the club are numbered.
Though he retains the support of club president Florentino Perez, a parting of the ways is growing increasingly likely.
And Don Balon say he may be sold to Chelsea as part of a deal for Hazard.
Real Madrid almost signed Hazard a year ago but the rise of Marco Asensio stop the deal for going through, Hazard move to Bernabeu might hinder the development of the young Spanish forward.
Meanwhile, speaking in June, Bale outlined his desire to stay at the Bernabeu despite his current problems.
"I have signed a long-term contract at Madrid," she said.
"My family is happy and I am happy, so yes we will continue what we are doing.
“We are winning trophies and I am happy."

Chelsea fans were shocked when
Antonio Conte named his starting XI for yesterday's Premier League clash with Southampton as Alvaro Morata was left on the bench once more.
The Spanish striker has impressed since his club record transfer from Real Madrid over the summer and is the Blues' top scorer this season.
But instead of calling on the 25-year-old to lead the line, Conte has opted to play without a recognised striker in each of Chelsea's last two games.
Eden Hazard has been deployed as a false nine for the wins over Huddersfield and Southampton this week and although the fans are not happy with their coach's recent team selections , Morata does not seem to mind too much.
The Spaniard was brought on for the final 17 minutes of yesterday's 1-0 win over the Saints and although he could not find the net to make things more comfortable, he still paid tribute to the man who got the winner.
"Three more point thanks to Marcos Alonso's goal!!" He wrote on Instagram after the game, as he celebrated his fellow countryman's contribution.
It was Alonso's first-half free kick that proved to be the difference between the teams as Chelsea moved back level on points with Manchester United ahead of their game with West Brom this afternoon.

Ronaldo scored the winner for Real in their Club World Cup final against Gremio yesterday with an incredible free-kick.

It means Real have now won the competition a joint-record three times, level with rivals Barcelona.

But their focus will swiftly switch back to La Liga action next week when they face Barcelona on Saturday (12pm).

Real can ill afford to drop points against their rivals having fallen eight points behind them in the league.

Zinedine Zidane’s side won their first La Liga title for five years last season, as well as lifting the Champions League.

Barcelona players line up in a guard of honour at the Bernabeu next week.

“It would be nice and I would like Barcelona to make for us the guard of honour,” Ronaldo said.

“I hope we can beat Barça so that the League is alive.

“We have to enjoy every moment because we do not know what can happen tomorrow.

We are gaining confidence and we are going to improve and finish very well.”

However, Real president Florentino Perez isn’t bothered if Barcelona do.

If there isn't, it won't devalue our title, I see great morale in the players, it's been very good ahead of Saturday's game," Perez said.

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte plans Juventus swoop for defender Alex Sandro - EXCLUSIVE

Juventus have indicated that they are willing to cash in on the Brazilian wing-back who has failed to sign a new contract.

The Blues spent the whole of last summer trying to tempt the Italian giants into selling the £70million rated star.

But they found that their £55m bid for Sandro was snubbed and the player has suffered a slump in form as a result.

Juventus now feel that they will have to do business when the transfer window opens at the start of next month

They will however wait for Sandro to make the first move knowing that competition to sign him as increased over the last few months.

French giants Paris Saint-Germain have shown an interest while Manchester United and Manchester City are also keen to give Chelsea competition.

Meanwhile The Blues are considering offering Michy Batshuayi as a makeweight in a deal for Monaco playmaker Thomas Lemar.

Chelsea believe that now their former technical director Michael Emenalo is working for Monaco gives them an edge over Arsenal in the race to sign Lemar.

Ronaldo helped Real Madrid to lift their fifth trophy of the season when they beat Gremio in the Club World Cup final yesterday.

The Portugal international scored the only goal of the game with a dipping free-kick midway through the second half.

He thought he had scored a second minutes later only for the offside flag to deny him.

But it is yet another trophy Ronaldo can add to his incredible achievements throughout his career.

While his form in La Liga this season has been sub-par for his high standards, the 32-year-old has been in sensational form on the European stage.

He became the first player in history to score on all six Champions League group games this season, taking his total tally for the competition to 114.

And Ronaldo picked up his fifth Ballon d’Or to draw level with Messi earlier this month to top off a brilliant year for the Portuguese star

Real can ill-afford to slip up against Barcelona as they currently sit eight points behind the La Liga leaders.

Zinedine Zidane’s side just fell short of matching Pep Guardiola’s record of winning six trophies in a single calendar year back in 2009

And it is reported the Real boss wants to repeat that success at the Bernabeu this campaign.

An insider view on why Neymar left Barcelona for PSG has been given by one of his closest pals, Gerard Pique.
Neymar, 25, made a surprise Barca exit in August, joining PSG in a world-record €222million move.
While the Brazil star has already impressed in France, Barca have been in form without him, unbeaten and leading LaLiga.
Pique believes part of Neymar's reason for leaving was his desire to claim the Ballon d'Or, the prize won by either Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo for the past 10 years.
"It is very difficult to find a player who stays at the same club for the whole of their career," he said.
"They need more motivation, they want to fight for new things. I know Neymar wanted the Ballon d'Or so I think it is fair he left for Paris where he will be the main star.
"If he does a good job in the Champions League and in France he has options to win the Ballon d'Or."
Pique also said he could see why Neymar would make the decision to join PSG, even if it was a blow to Barca.
"You try to do the best for your club and you also create relationships and friendships – with Neymar my relationship is really strong," the Spain international told Telegraph Sport.
"Even though it really hurt the club when he left, as a friend I could understand his decision and why he wanted to go to Paris. I tried to be fair to him no matter what.
"As a Barcelona fan it hurts and I understand that maybe some Barcelona fans are disappointed about how he left." He concluded.

Manchester United have made enquiries regarding the availability of Chelsea star Willian according to reports today.

Manchester United have made enquiries regarding the availability of Chelsea star Willian according to reports today.
The Brazilian has been out of favour since the arrival of Antonio Conte at Stamford Bridge in 2016, with Eden Hazard, Pedro, and Alvaro Morata all being favoured up front for the Blues. Willian was afforded a chance to impress earlier this week in Morata’s absence, and took the chance with both hands, scoring one and creating two as Chelsea beat Huddersfield on Tuesday.
Although Willian has recently admitted he is happy at the club , according to the Daily Mail , Manchester United have made enquiries regarding his availability.
They claim that while they aren’t actively looking to sell the winger, they would be willing to sell if they received a Ma mouth offer, although whether they would want to sell to Man Utd again is yet to be seen. Club officials are known to still be furious with the decision to let Nemanja Matic move to Old Trafford last summer.
The Blues have been linked with a number of players in recent weeks who would be seen as potential replacements for Willian, with reports linking Chelsea to making a big money move for Thomas Lemar, as well as Bayer Leverkusen’s Jamaican speedster, Leon Bailey.

Antonio Conte has revealed that the knee injury keeping Chelsea defender, David Luiz sidelined is a serious one, but hopes for a speedy recovery.
The Brazil international centre back has been in and out of the squad this season, due to a fluctuating form.
However, knee injury has ensured Luiz stays on the sidelines and Conte is hoping to have him back soon.
“David has an inflammation in the knee and we are trying to solve this situation with the doctor,” Conte told reporters at a news conference ahead of Saturday’s clash with Southampton.
“It’s important to assess the situation day by day and to try to solve this problem. I don’t know when he’s able to come back, but for sure we are trying to sort his situation.
“The player is working apart [from the rest of the team] and the last days he was outside and in the pool.
“Today he was swimming and out on the pitch to run a bit, but very slowly. This is a serious problem, but we hope to solve it as soon as possible.
“I think every player is frustrated when they don’t play, especially when injured. For sure, there’s a lot of frustration for the injury and because every player wants to try to put difficulty into the coach’s choices.
“I understand, I was a player and when I was injured I was very sad because you want to feel well and be ready for the competition and training. But injuries are part of the job.”

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has given an update on Alvaro Morata ahead of the weekend Premier League clash against Southampton in his press conference on Friday.
Morata has made 15 appearances for Chelsea this season and scored nine goals in the process.
Chelsea back on Juventus defender Alex Sandro
The Spanish forward missed the clash against Huddersfield on Tuesday evening.
The former Real Madrid forward is expected to make the squad after recovering from a back pain.
“He trained with us two days ago and today. He has this pain in his back but he is in contention for tomorrow’s game,” Conte told a news conference on Friday.

Manchester United are set to battle Juventus for the signature of Fabinho next summer, according to reports in Italy.

Italian newspaper Tuttosport, as quoted by talkSPORT, is reporting that the Red Devils are keen to try and sign the Brazilian midfielder from Monaco.

Fabinho was heavily linked with a move away from the Ligue 1 side in the summer transfer window but a move failed to materialise in the end.

The same report claims the race for Fabinho’s signature will now come down to a straight shootout between Serie A champions Juventus and Manchester United.

The story also says that Manchester United have been “tracking” Fabinho since the summer transfer window.

Fabinho can play at right back and in defensive midfield and he was heavily touted as a possible target for Manchester United last summer.

The 24-year-old has scored two goals and made one assist in 16 Ligue 1 games for Monaco so far this season.

Manchester United are currently preparing for their trip to West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon as they bid to get themselves back into the title race.

The Red Devils are currently 11 points behind Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City side as the hectic festive period looms large.

Neymar caused the shock of the summer transfer window when he decided to leave Barcelona to join Paris Saint-Germain.

It sparked heavy controversy of the huge £198million world-record fee the Ligue 1 side paid for the Brazil international.

And his time in the French capital has been mired with drama, having fallen out with Edinson Cavani over who should take penalties.

It led to accusations that Neymar has grown unhappy with life in Paris and speculation suggesting Real Madrid could make a sensational move for the former Barcelona star.

It would seem highly unlikely the 25-year-old would opt to join Barcelona’s fiercest rivals in La Liga, but it seems Zinedine Zidane’s side are doing all they can to secure his services.

Spanish outlet Diario Gol claim Real owner Florentino Perez has met with Neymar’s father to discuss a potential transfer to the Bernebeu.

And it is suggested the Brazil international has told PSG’s owners he wants to leave the club as early as 2019, with Real his ideal destination.

Liverpool in January.

The Catalan giants failed to lure the Brazilian to the Nou Camp over the summer, despite Coutinho handing in a transfer request at Anfield.

Liverpool stuck to their guns and were steadfast in their refusal to sell their star man, who has impressed this season despite speculation over his future.

Now, Mundo Deportivo say Barca will offer far more lucrative add-ons, albeit with a smaller transfer fee, to try and get the deal done in January.

Jurgen Klopp is targeting sensational Champions League success for Liverpool.

He has given up on hunting down Manchester City for the Premier Leaguetitle, but believes he can instead lift the continent’s elite compeition.

The German boss reckons his squad has the firepower to make a real impact in Europe this season, and a kind draw against Porto certainly helps their cause.

The FA Cup also offers the chance for salvation, with Everton their round three opponents.

Klopp believes winning the Champions’ League is possible, and cited 2013 when his Dortmund side came so close to beating Bayern Munich in the final, despite finishing 25 points behind them in the Bundesliga.

Saturday 30 December 2017

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Wednesday 27 December 2017

Tuesday 26 December 2017

Saturday 23 December 2017

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Thursday 21 December 2017

Wednesday 20 December 2017

Tuesday 19 December 2017

Monday 18 December 2017

What’s the story?

In case you didn’t know…

The heart of the matter

Sunday 17 December 2017

Saturday 16 December 2017

Friday 15 December 2017

Manchester United are set to battle Juventus for the signature of Fabinho next summer, according to reports in Italy.