Hbk Mano

Full Match: Portugal 6 - 2 Bosnia-Herzegovina

2012-01-06T01:54:00.000-08:00

Portugal 6 - 2 Bosnia-Herzegovina
Competition: UEFA Euro 2012 Qualifying
Date/Time: Nov 16, 2011
Venue: Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica (da Luz) (Lisboa)

Chelsea and Arsenal target Kaka could leave Real Madrid

2011-12-24T18:33:00.000-08:00

Kaka is reportedly considering his options at Real Madrid, opening the door to a possible Chelsea or Arsenal move.

The Brazilian superstar has long been linked with a move to England, with Andre Villas-Boas and Arsene Wenger both thought to be keen on the 29-year-old midfielder.

And, with the former AC Milan playmaker unable to become a regular in the Los Blancos line-up under manager Jose Mourinho, Spanish magazine El Confidencial claims Kaka is now 'considering his options' with his family.

Despite starting just nine games this season for the Santiago Bernabeu side, the former European and World footballer of the year would still be seen as a transfer coup if Chelsea were able to lure the player to Stamford Bridge.

Villas-Boas was in the market for an attacking midfielder in the summer, but after failing to lure Luka Modric the Chelsea, the former Porto boss decided against moving for any other target.

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If the report is to be believed, a £30 million offer would land the 82 cap international, and it's a fee that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich could easily stump-up if he's happy to bring the big-name to west London.

As for Arsene Wenger, the Frenchman has long been linked with Kaka, and is a known admirer of the former São Paulo starlet.

However, the price tag could be a stumbling block for the Gunners, with Wenger renowned for being stringent in the transfer market in an effort to protect the finances at the Emirates Stadium.

After signing Mikel Arteta in the summer, as well as bringing Yossi Benayoun to Arsenal on loan, the north London side are well covered in the attacking midfield position.

But the chance to sign a player of Kaka's quality is one which rarely becomes available, and it could tempt the Arsenal boss into at least considering a move.

What Is Facebook Timeline? Get Your Facebook Timeline

2011-12-16T09:35:00.000-08:00

Social networking site Facebook's latest service Timeline has been globally rolled out. The company said Timeline had so far been available only to a few people, but now it had made it available to everybody. Timeline was announced by Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg at the f8 conference in September. Here's all you need to know about Facebook Timeline.

What is Timeline
Timeline allows users to compile and let others see everything they have shared so far, from photos, stories to shared videos and music. Some of the things a user can do on Timeline are: edit his basic info, jump to the past, view his activity log, check highlights from each month, star stories he wants to highlight, add life events, update his status, view and add photos and share his app activity.

How it is different from your current profile
Presently, only latest pictures or posts of users are visible, while large part of the previous posts are hidden. The only way to retrieve them is to scroll down and click on "More Stories". Timeline on the other hand retains a user's older posts, photos etc and also groups them datewise making it easy and convenient for viewing.

Activating Timeline
To get Timeline, a user needs to simply go to the Introducing Timeline page and click on 'Get It Now'. Or he can wait till he receives an announcement at the top of his profile.

How it works
Once a user upgrades to Timeline, he will get seven days to review everything that appears on his Timeline before anyone else can see it. You can also choose to publish your Timeline at any time during the review period. If a user decides to wait, his timeline will automatically go live after seven days.

His new Timeline will replace his profile, however, all his stories and photos will remain there. Users, who want to see how their Timeline would appear to other people, can click on the 'gear menu' at the top of their Timeline, and select "View As." This shows them how their timeline will appear to a specific friend or public.

Friends List
For those who always keep their Friends List private, Timeline is a curse as it prominently displays just how 'popular' you are on Facebook and who all are connected with you. There is no apparent way to turn it off, unlike earlier settings. This may be a major put-off for those who do not want to share their Friends List with all and sundry for various reasons.

Life out in the open
Timeline puts your life out in the open like never before. Unlike the earlier single webpage design where older content - shares, status updates, notes, likes, comments, photos and notes - kept getting buried under labyrinths of time, Timeline's scrapbook interface has now given an excellent tool to people to determine others' Facebook.

This may not be such a great news for those not keen on sharing each and everything from their life with everyone. So before rushing to publish your Timeline, it is advisable to spend hours and hours reviewing what content you don't want to share, and delete or remove from Timeline. You get a week before Timeline will automatically go live on December 23, even if you decide not to publish.

Activity Log
Activity Log is a place where users can review all their posts and activity, from today back to when they first started using Facebook. Only users will be able to see their activity log.

A user will be able to see two dropdown menus next to each story in their activity log. The first is to see and adjust the privacy of a post. The second one is to allow a user to decide if he actually wants a post to appear on his timeline. Users can feature, hide or delete any of their posts.

As for how to find a certain story, post or photo, all a user needs to do is click the "All" dropdown at the top of his activity log and select what he is looking for.

Timeline on my mobile
Apart from making Timeline available on Web, Facebook has also launched Timeline on Android and m.facebook.com.

Mobile Timeline starts with a user's unique cover photo. As a user scrolls down, he will see his posts, photos and life events as they happened.

Photo albums and other posts are horizontally swipeable, so that one can view multiple photos or posts inline without leaving timeline. A user can also swipe through the views at the top of his timeline to navigate to your map, photos, subscribers and more.

Get Your Facebook TimeLine CLICK HERE

Mourinho in press talks about El Clasico Real Madrid 1-3 Barcelona

2011-12-10T15:46:00.000-08:00

Jose Mourinho surprised everyone by playing the most obvious "call my bluff" game ever, Pep Guardiola left out David Villa in the most shockingly-obvious change for Barcelona. It only meant one thing: El Clasico of course! No doubt the last words to each set of players were "Don’t concede early"...

22 seconds Goal:
If only it were that simple. Real Madrid started as expected; pressing high up the field, asphyxiating the Barcelona players and most importantly, limiting the time Victor Valdes had on the ball. Rushing his clearances was the goal, and they succeeded as early as 20 seconds in. Valdes received a backpass, and scuffed his pass/clearance straight to Angel Di Maria. The Argentine tried to pick out a pass, which was blocked, but the rebound fell to Mesut Ozil on the half-volley. However, that was blocked only to fall at Karim Benzema’s feet, and the Frenchman stretched to volley home the opener.

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Mourinho in press talks about the ref and how Messi should have been sent off. Should have, would have, could have Mou....

Mourinho Says: The first half was even better. The second half their goal was poor Luck, No mistake but Poor luck,
We had the 3-2. Again it wasn't a stop by the keeper but poor luck, I don't want to take merit away from the winner but luck has made the difference. I came out to the presser because my team lost. I can't send Karanka. I have to represent the losing team.We will see if the Champions comes down to RM-Barca too but I think there's other teams with the same ambitions

Mourinho says: I understand my players are scared to go on the 50/50 battles due to the history of us getting carded. I didn't like the first goal because it was the same way Barcelona has scored on us before. A ball in the midfield was lost. The players are sad but quiet. Obviously we can't be happy.Time passes and we forget things. We have only won one match against them: a final & We do not have problems in midfield"

Napoli's Edinson Cavani reveals desire to play in Spain in the future

2011-12-09T01:30:00.000-08:00

The Uruguay international striker has admitted that, while the Premier League does appeal to him, he would rather move to La Liga if ever he were to leave the San Paolo.

Napoli striker Edinson Cavani has put Real Madrid and Barcelona on red alert by revealing that he feels he would be ideally suited to the Spanish game.

The Uruguay international has been repeatedly linked with a move away from the San Paolo and it was claimed earlier this week that Paris Saint-Germain are willing to pay €75 million (£64m) for his services.

However, Cavani has hinted that if he does ever leave Naples, he would be more interested in a move to La Liga.

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“I really like English football as well as Italian, but I am also a fan of Spanish football,” he told El Pais de Montevideo.

“There are more spaces there and it’s great for a striker who likes to move around on the pitch. Spain is ideal for me and I’d be very happy to play there.”

However, Cavani insists that he is not paying much attention to all of the speculation surrounding his future and his current focus is on helping Napoli maintain their recent good form in Serie A and the Champions League.

“I am used to it because since the moment I arrived here there has been talk of transfers," he continued.

“But I am certain that when the time comes, and when there is the concrete possibility of a move, I will know before anyone else does.

“Now, I let people talk and don’t pay any attention to those rumours. I am only concentrated on what I have to do for Napoli.”

Cavani has proved a revelation since arriving at the San Paolo from Palermo last year, the 24-year-old forward scoring 26 goals in 35 Serie A appearances as Napoli clinched a place in this season’s Champions League.

Inter Milan rule out swoop for Carlos Tevez

2011-12-08T06:27:00.000-08:00

INTER MILAN insist they will not battle arch-rivals AC Milan to sign Carlos Tevez.
Tevez has been linked with a move to Italy after effectively calling time on his Manchester City career following his bust-up with boss Roberto Mancini.

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani admits the Rossoneri have already made an offer to sign the 27-year-old on loan in January with an option to buy next summer.

But Inter insist the Argie hitman is not on their January sales shopping list after being put off by his personal demands.

Club president Massimo Moratti said: "I'm not disappointed because the terms that we had negotiated with the player, which I imagine are similar to that of Milan's, we didn't consider them acceptable."

Tevez has been absent from City for the past month having returned to Argentina without permission after deciding not to appeal against a club fine for misconduct.

Nominees announced for FIFA Ballon d’Or 2011 awards

2011-12-05T13:28:00.000-08:00

The contenders for this year’s FIFA Ballon d’Or Award for the best player of 2011 and for the FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year 2011 award were announced today at a press conference held at the headquarters of France Football magazine in Paris in which FIFA Secretary General Jérôme Valcke, France Football CEO François Morinière, former French player Emmanuel Petit and Gaëtane Thiney, French international football player, took part.

In alphabetical order, the male nominees are: Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal), Lionel Messi (Argentina) and Xavi (Spain), while Marta (Brazil), Homare Sawa (Japan) and Abby Wambach (USA) will contest the women’s award.

The candidates for the FIFA World Coach of the Year for Men’s Football and FIFA World Coach of the Year for Women’s Football awards were also announced. In alphabetical order, the contenders are the following:

Alex Ferguson (Scotland), Josep Guardiola (Spain) and José Mourinho (Portugal) for the FIFA World Coach of the Year for Men’s Football award and Bruno Bini (France), Norio Sasaki (Japan) and Pia Sundhage (Sweden) for the FIFA World Coach of the Year for Women’s Football award.

All these nominees were confirmed after a poll in which the captains and head coaches of the men’s and women’s national teams as well as international media representatives selected by France Football voted for candidates.

Last but not least, the three nominees for the FIFA Puskás award for the “most beautiful goal of the year” were announced. These are: Lionel Messi (Argentina), Neymar (Brazil) and Wayne Rooney (England).

All the awards will be presented at the FIFA Ballon d’Or, which will be held at the Kongresshaus in Zurich, FIFA’s home city, on 9 January 2012.

The gala, formerly known as the “FIFA World Player of the Year Gala”, has been in existence since 1991. Last year it underwent a significant change when it merged with France Football’s Ballon d’Or award to form the new “FIFA Ballon d’Or”.

In addition to the awards given to the best male and the best female player, the best coaches as well as to the scorer of the best goal, three more honours will be revealed: the FIFA/FIFPro World XI, the FIFA Presidential Award and the FIFA Fair Play Award.

EURO finals schedule confirmed

2011-12-03T08:37:00.000-08:00

The finals schedule has been confirmed with Poland starting the tournament against Greece and other opening games including Germany v Portugal, Spain v Italy and England v France.

The schedule for UEFA EURO 2012 in Poland and Ukraine has been confirmed following the draw in Kyiv.

Poland will launch the tournament on Friday 8 June at 18.00CET against Greece in Warsaw followed by the other Group A opener between Russia and the Czech Republic at 20.45CET. The next day the Netherlands face Denmark in Kharkiv and Germany take on Portugal in Lviv to begin Group B, and on 10 June Group C starts as holders Spain play Italy and the Republic of Ireland are matched with Croatia.

Ukraine are involved in the last of the opening set of fixtures, meeting Sweden in Group D in Kyiv after England tackle France in Donetsk. The group stage runs until 19 June, then, after a rest day, the quarter-finals take place over four consecutive nights. The semi-finals are on 29 June in Donetsk and the following evening in Warsaw, before Kyiv stages the 1 July decider.

Match schedule
All kick-offs CET, Ukrainian time is one hour ahead

Friday 8 June 2012
#1: POL v GRE, 18.00CET, Warsaw
#2: RUS v CZE, 20.45CET, Wroclaw

Saturday 9 June 2012
#3: NED v DEN, 18.00CET, Kharkiv
#4: GER v POR, 20.45CET, Lviv

Sunday 10 June 2012
#5: ESP v ITA, 18.00CET, Gdansk
#6: IRL v CRO, 20.45CET, Poznan

Monday 11 June 2012
#7: FRA v ENG, 18.00CET, Donetsk
#8: UKR v SWE, 20.45CET, Kyiv

Tuesday 12 June 2012
#9: GRE v CZE, 18.00CET, Wroclaw
#10: POL v RUS, 20.45CET, Warsaw

Wednesday 13 June 2012
#11: DEN v POR, 18.00CET, Lviv
#12: NED v GER, 20.45CET, Kharkiv

Thursday 14 June 2012
#13: ITA v CRO, 18.00CET, Poznan
#14: ESP v IRL, 20.45CET, Gdansk

Friday 15 June 2012
#15: SWE v ENG, 20.45CET, Kyiv
#16: UKR v FRA, 18.00CET, Donetsk

Saturday 16 June 2012
#17: CZE v POL, 20.45CET, Wroclaw
#18: GRE v RUS, 20.45CET, Warsaw

Sunday 17 June 2012
#19: POR v NED, 20.45CET, Kharkiv
#20: DEN v GER, 20.45CET, Lviv

Monday 18 June 2012
#21: CRO v ESP, 20.45CET, Gdansk
#22: ITA v IRL, 20.45CET, Poznan

Tuesday 19 June 2012
#23: ENG v UKR, 20.45CET, Donetsk
#24: SWE v FRA, 20.45CET, Kyiv

Wednesday 20 June 2012
No matches

Thursday 21 June 2012
#25: 1A v 2B, 20.45CET, Warsaw

Friday 22 June 2012
#26: 1B v 2A, 20.45CET, Gdansk

Saturday 23 June 2012
#27: 1C v 2D, 20.45CET, Donetsk

Sunday 24 June 2012
#28: 1D v 2C, 20.45CET, Kyiv

Monday 25 June 2012
No matches

Tuesday 26 June 2012
No matches

Wednesday 27 June 2012
#29: W#25 v W#27, 20.45CET, Donetsk

Thursday 28 June 2012
#30: W#26 v W#28, 20.45CET, Warsaw

Friday 29 June 2012
No matches

Saturday 30 June 2012
No matches

Sunday 1 July 2012
#31: W#29 v W#30, 20.45CET, Kyiv

Inter's Diego Forlan nearing comeback after injury lay-off

2011-12-01T07:28:00.000-08:00

Inter coach Claudio Ranieri has received some encouraging news from the treatment room in the build-up to Saturday's Serie A match at home against Udinese as striker Diego Forlan is nearing full match fitness again after a spell on the sidelines due to injury.

The experienced attacker picked up a muscular problem halfway through October while away on international duty and has since been out of action.

However, the Nerazzurri have now announced on their official website that Forlan has returned to the training pitch and is close to making his comeback.

Forlan featured in a training game on Wednesday without any significant problems before continuing with an individual practice session.

The 32-year-old joined Inter from Atletico Madrid in the summer transfer window but has so far been unable to make an impact due to injury, making only five appearances and scoring just one goal, all in Serie A.

Gary Speed found dead: tributes paid to Wales manager

2011-11-27T11:10:00.000-08:00

Tributes pour in for Wales manager who has taken his own life at 42 years old.
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LONDON -- Gary Speed, who became Wales' soccer coach just 11 months ago after playing for his country a record 85 times, has died. He was 42.

The Football Association of Wales announced Speed's death Sunday without giving the cause. Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding Speed's death.

Speed is survived by his wife and two children.

"We extend our sympathies and condolences to the family," the FAW said in a statement. "We ask that everyone respects the family's privacy at this very sad time."

Speed, whose 85 caps is a Welsh record for an outfield player, had only become Wales coach in December in a move that had long been predicted by former teammates and commentators. Only goalkeeper Neville Southall, with 92 appearances, played more games for Wales.

Last year, Queen Elizabeth II gave Speed the Member of the British Empire award in her annual Birthday Honors list for his services to soccer.

"Just cannot believe the news regarding Gary Speed. We waved at each other a couple of days ago dropping our kids off at school. I'm numb," Manchester United striker Michael Owen wrote on Twitter. "He has died aged 42. So sad. He lived local to me and we knew his family. He leaves behind 2 sons. Tragic."

Admired for his dedication, fitness and consistency in a 20-year playing career -- as well as a knack for goals -- Speed started out with Leeds and won the English league championship with the club in 1992.

Moving on to Everton and then Newcastle, Speed became the first player to play in 500 Premier League games and held the record with 535 until it was surpassed by goalkeeper David James in 2009. Ryan Giggs has also since passed the mark.

Speed scored in every topflight season in which he played until dropping out of the Premier League in 2008 when he joined Sheffield United.

With injuries finally beginning to affect him, Speed became a coach at Sheffield United and formally retired from playing at the end of the 2009-10 season. He became Blades manager early in the following season but was soon approached by Wales after John Toshack resigned as coach.

Speed led the team to five wins in 10 matches, including a 4-1 victory over Norway two weeks ago, earning praise for Wales' style of play and emphasis on youth.

"We've got talent in abundance and I'm fortunate to be in that position," Speed said after the Nov. 12 win in Cardiff. "We are building for the future. There is still a lot of improving to be done but we are going in the right direction.

Shawn Michaels & His TV Show Nominated For TV Awards

2011-11-17T22:06:00.000-08:00

Shawn Michaels and his TV show Shawn Michaels' MacMillan River Adventures are nominated in several "Fan Favorite" categories in the Outdoor Channel's 12th Annual Golden Moose Awards. Michaels is nominated in the "FAN FAVORITE Host/Personality" category, while the show is nominated in the "FAN FAVORITE Hunting Series", "FAN FAVORITE Best Overall" and "FAN FAVORITE New Series in 2011" categories. You can vote for HBK and the show At This Link. Voting will take place until December 26, 2011, and winners will be revealed on January 19, 2012 during the Shooting and Outdoor Industry Trade (SHOT) Show in Las Vegas, NV.
For Vote CLICK HERE
If You are Out of US:
(They Required Phone Number but You Can have from here http://tinyurl.com/bg5ssk )

Kelly Key: In the Night Tour: Mixed Club 2011

2011-11-17T10:36:00.000-08:00

UEFA EURO 2012 finals lineup complete

2011-11-15T22:08:00.000-08:00

The finals lineup for UEFA EURO 2012 has been settled after Croatia, the Czech Republic, the Republic of Ireland and Portugal came through their respective play-off ties on Tuesday.

The finals lineup for UEFA EURO 2012 has been confirmed after the play-offs concluded on Tuesday.

Croatia, the Czech Republic, the Republic of Ireland and Portugal all completed aggregate victories to book their tickets for Poland and Ukraine. They join the ten teams that reached next summer's tournament from the qualifying group stage, and the two co-hosts.

The 16 teams that will compete for the Henri Delaunay Cup are:
Poland (co-hosts)
Ukraine (co-hosts)
Spain (holders)
Croatia
Czech Republic
Denmark
England
France
Germany
Greece
Italy
Netherlands
Portugal
Republic of Ireland
Russia
Sweden

UEFA will confirm the seedings for the finals draw on Wednesday. The draw takes place in Kyiv on 2 December. The tournament runs between 6 June and 1 July 2012.

Forlán: "Me doy un 9 en mi época en el Atlético"

2011-11-08T00:59:00.000-08:00

Diego Forlán Corazo (Montevideo, 1979) vive sus primeros meses en el Inter. Era hora de evaluar 'in situ', en Milán, su recuerdo del Atlético. 'El Cacha' está feliz allí, muy feliz, por más que lleve sólo un gol y esté lesionado hace un mes.

¿Cómo está de la lesión, cuánto le queda?
Bien, por suerte me queda poco. Al menos, esto me ha servido para descansar, lo cual no está mal, pues llevo un año y medio sin vacaciones.

Parece que todavía no ha rendido lo que se esperaba.
Es verdad, pero recién llegué. Es pronto. Se dieron muchas cosas a la vez: no tuve una buena pretemporada por la Copa América, vine con molestias, sin vacaciones, a un equipo nuevo, y no estaba al cien por cien. Esta lesión me va a servir para partir desde cero.

¿Cuál es la mayor diferencia entre Inter y Atlético?
El Inter es un equipo muy grande, con mucha repercusión internacional. Quizás en eso sí hay diferencia, siendo el Atleti también un grande, pero sí hay una ligera diferencia. La gente me trata bien igual. En Italia los hinchas, incluso los de otros equipos, me saludan y felicitan.

¿Por? ¿Aquí le trataba mal la gente del Madrid?
No, para nada. Los madridistas también eran bárbaros conmigo. La hinchada, al final, es muy educada y agradable en Milán, Madrid o Villarreal.

¿Qué se traería del Atlético al Inter?
A algunos compañeros, más por el lado humano: Godín, Juanfran u otros que se fueron. Pero la cosa es como es.

¿Y del Inter al Atleti?
Hay una cosa del Inter que me alucina. Siendo un club tan grande, me parece muy familiar, desde la cúpula, el presidente, hasta los empleados. La cercanía es espectacular. La gente que rodea a los jugadores es genial, algo que también tuve en Madrid, por cierto. El Inter es un poco similar en eso a lo que viví en el Manchester United.

Vayamos con el Atleti. ¿Qué es lo primero que se le viene a la cabeza de esa experiencia?
La gente del club... Ricardo, el de seguridad, los que nos cuidaban, Alberto, Gorka, Esteban, Jesús, Pitillas, el doctor Villalón, el delegado, Pedro Pablo, los utilleros, Ciri y Cristian, Dani... toda esa gente que trabaja allí, el chófer del bus... Gente anónima que hace funcionar el club.

¿Sigue sus resultados?
¡Claro! Quiero que gane siempre. No me gusta que pase lo que le está pasando ahora. Aparte, por amigos como Godín, con quien estoy más en contacto. Y sí, veo todos los partidos que puedo.

Usted se fue, se fueron el Kun y De Gea, pero el Atlético sigue igual, una continua montana rusa.
Sí, es una lástima. Viéndolo ahora desde fuera, uno toma consciencia de que lo que hicimos nosotros tuvo mucho valor. Tres finales, dos títulos, estar en Champions dos años... Uno toma consciencia de todo el tiempo que llevaba el club sin ganar algo. Es una lástima que se haya desmantelado ese plantel en tan poco tiempo, pues apenas hace dos años de aquello.

Visto en la distancia, esos títulos parecen un milagro.
Teníamos un buen equipo por más que sufríeramos momentos duros, como ahora le pasa al actual plantel. Tienen que tener paciencia. Esto recién empieza.

¿Ve lógica la presión que tiene ya Manzano sobre sí?
No, es una pena. Pero es que en el fútbol en general hay mucha impaciencia. Conocí a Manzano y es un buen trabajador, buen tipo y con preparación. Cuando me fui, le dije que era una lástima que no fuéramos a coincidir más tiempo.

¿Cómo se cambia esa histeria que vive el Atlético hace años y que no la sofoca ni los títulos ganados?
No tengo ni idea. Habría que sentar a todos: hinchas, jugadores, Prensa, y hacer un fórum para sacar conclusiones. ¡Yo qué sé! Es muy complejo, porque abarca varias generaciones. Mire, le voy a contar una cosa que nunca conté. Me acuerdo de un partido de Liga justo después de ganar los dos títulos: la Europa League y la Supercopa ante el Inter. Estábamos en el banquillo con Antonio López, Fran Escriba, segundo de Quique, y otros, y de pronto escuchamos al Frente Atlético y parte de la grada cantar la canción ésa de: "Volveremos a ser campeones, como en el 96". ¡Y acabábamos de ser supercampeones de Europa! Yo me volví hacia el banquillo y les dije: "Muchachos, ¿nosotros no acabamos de ganar un título, como es que éstos cantan lo del 96?". Eso te da una idea de cómo está todo. ¡¡¡Ya no se acordaban de nuestros dos títulos en apenas dos meses!!!! ¿No valía nada aquello o qué? La verdad es que me sentó muy mal, y, como profesional, me molestó.

Diego Forlan: I’d rate 9 my performance in Atletico

2011-11-08T00:56:00.000-08:00

After the Inter-Lille match Diego Forlan gave an interview to Marca.

How’s your injury?
Well, fortunately, I’ll be okay soon. At least it helped me to get some rest, which is good, since I didn’t have a vacation for a year and a half.

It seems that your expectations in Italy haven’t been met yet.
It’s true, but I’ve only recently arrived here. It’s too early to draw conclusions. A lot of things came together: I haven’t had a good pre-season because of Copa America, I had minor injuries, I didn’t rest, I joined a new team, and I was not 100% fit. This injury will help me start from a scratch.

What is the main difference between Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid?
Inter is a big team with a great international significance. Perhaps this is the main difference, though Atletico is also a well-known team, but still there is a difference. The people over here treat me very well. In Italy, the fans always greet me, even when they cheer for other teams, I am always warmly welcomed.

And in Madrid, people were not treating you good?
Not at all. The Real Madrid fans have always welcomed me, too. In general, the fans have always been very polite and friendly everywhere: in Milan, in Madrid, in Villareal.

Whom would you take from Atletico to Inter?
Several friends, more for their human qualities: Godin, Juanfran and few others who left Atletico. But the things are the way they are.

And to Atletico from Inter?
One thing about Inter which is truely impressive is that being such a big club, everybody here is very simple, friendly, close to each other, from the president to ordinary employees. This is amazing. People who work in the club are simply great, but in Madrid they were great too, by the way. Inter is a bit like Manchester United in that sense.

Lets get back to Atletico. Whom do you remember from the club?
All the people in the club are great … (Diego starts counting a whole bunch of people by their names: doctors, security guards, drivers, handymen…) Everybody who works there, all those anonymous people who drive the club forward.

Do you still follow Atletico?
Of course! I always wish them win. I don’t like what’s happening there right now. In addition, I am constantly in contact with some friends of mine, such as Godin. I try to watch their games whenever I can.

You, Kun and De Gea have left, but Atletico is still struggling, the same continuous roller coaster.
Yes, and it’s a pity. Looking back, I realize how valuable was everything that we have done. Three finals, two titles, played two years in the Champions League … And we achieved that after a long period of time when the club stalled and was not winning anything. It’s unfortunate that such a good team disappeared in such a short time, because all the good things happened just two years ago.

Now these titles look like a miracle…
We had a good team, though we had some tough times, like now. But we have to have patience. This is just the beginning.

Do you think the pressure on Manzano is justified?
No, and this is very bad. But generally, in football there is a lot of impatience. Manzano is a very good coach, well-educated, hard-working. When I left, I told him: it’s very unfortunate that we were not able to work together more.

How to change this history of failures in Atletico?
I have no idea. Maybe get together with fans, players, media in a big forum and come to some conclusions. I don’t know! This is a very complex process, since it covers several generations. Look, I’m going to tell you something that I never told before. I remember one game in Spanish La Liga, after we won two titles: the Europa League and UEFA Super Cup. We were on the bench with Antonio Lopez, Quique, and few others, and suddenly we heard the fans of Atletico singing the song that said “Let’s become champions again, like in 1996!” But we’ve just become super champions of Europe! I turned to the bench and said, “Guys, but we’ve just won 2 titles, and they still sing about 1996?!” It gives you an idea how things are. Just in two months they’ve already forgotten the titles that we’ve won! Are these titles worth nothing?! Frankly, I was hurt, and as a professional, very disappointed.

What were your own mistakes in Atletico?
That I was not a hypocrite. Other people told me that, too. I was honest and did not want to deceive people. Obviously, I was attached to the club, I spent four years there. I hope that people understand that. But at that moment, I said something very unpopular and was misunderstood.

How would you rank your own performance for the club?
(Thinks) High. I would give myself 9. We won two Cups, reached the finals of the King’s Cup, the club achieved its goals, I was a top scorer, won the Golden Boot. I’d give myself 9.

Do you still think about Quique Flores?
No.

Let’s move on from Atletico. How many years do you have left in football?
I have a two-year contract with Inter, with the possibility of renewal for another year, but I don’t look beyond that. I am now at the stage of my career where I really enjoy every game, because it’s heading to an end. I am glad I came here, though in Madrid I had my house, my friends, good atmosphere, good club, but I needed to change something in my life.

Would you ever play in Spain again?
I don’t know. Frankly, there are other places where I would like to play, for example, in Brazil, where my father played (in Sao Paulo), or in the United States. I would like to try there. But first I want to play a few years in this great club (Inter).

As a striker, you depend on your physical form. When your form starts to decline, would you play in midfield?
Actually, I somewhat play in this position in the Uruguay national team now, with Cavani and Suarez on the edge. I feel comfortable in midfield, but nevertheless I still love being a striker. Please give me a little more time in attack.

Is it more difficult to score goals in Italy?
The statistics say it all. In Italy, there is a lot of great strikers, but they score less goals than in Spain. It’s a fact. Games are more closed, less space, more tactics, and especially for us, forwards: the teams are completely closed behind. I was watching Napoli-Parma the other day, and Parma was all sitting back there, closed and played on the counterattacks. Napoli had all the possession, but there was no open space for the attacks.

So, Messi and Ronaldo wouldn’t score that much in Italy.
I prefer not enter into this debate. And taking advantage of this last question, I’d like to say hello to all my friends in Atletico and Villareal. Greetings from Milan!

Monica Bellucci "Sortilege de Cartier" Collection Launch In Rome,Italy - Arrivals

2011-11-05T21:37:00.000-07:00

Monica Bellucci arrives at the new High Jewellery Collection "Sortilege de Cartier" launch at Villa Aurelia on September 17, 2011 in Rome, Italy.

Monica Bellucci & Fan Bingbing

Cristiano Ronaldo: 2011 European Golden Shoe Award Winner

2011-11-05T00:40:00.000-07:00

Being rewarded for his hard work on the field, Cristiano Ronaldo was on-hand to receive the 2011 European Golden Shoe Award in Madrid, Spain on Friday (November 4).

The Real Madrid star confidently accepted his honor at the presentation held at the Intercontinental Hotel.

Of the award, Ronaldo said, "I would like to win something bigger at a collective level. I do not think about breaking records, but about Real Madrid. I think our team is more mature and with more trust, and we all have to think the same way to achieve an important goal."

There cheering on her main man, Irina Shayk was among the hundreds of people who came out to show their support for Ronaldo.

Enjoy the pictures of Cristiano Ronaldo and Irina Shayk at the 'Golden Boot' Ceremony in Madrid (November 4).

FIFA: List of 23 nominees for the Ballon d'Or 2011

2011-11-01T12:13:00.000-07:00

The Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) announced Tuesday the list of the 23 players nominated for the Ballon d'Or 2011. The latter will be awarded Jan. 9 in Zurich, Switzerland.
On the 23 nominees, there are seven Spanish: Cesc Fabregas, Andres Iniesta, Gerard Piqué, David Villa, Xavi Hernandez, Iker Casillas and Xabi Alonso.

Portugal will be represented by Ronaldo and Nani while Italy does not have any player. Germany two players from Bayern Munich, Schweinsteiger and Thomas Muller, and Brazil two candidates, Dani Alves and Neymar. Wayne Rooney will be the only English candidate, and the Eto the only African candidate for this prestigious title.

Here are the 23 players nominated for the Golden Ball and the ten coaches nominated for the Coach of the year.

The 23 players nominated:

Eric Abidal (FRA / Barcelona)
Karim Benzema (FRA / Real Madrid),
Sergio Aguero (ARG / Manchester City),
Iker Casillas (SP / Real Madrid),
Cristiano Ronaldo (POR / Real Madrid),
Daniel Alves (BRA / Barcelona)
Samuel Eto'o (CMR / Anji Makachkala)
Cesc Fabregas (SP / FC Barcelona)
Diego Forlan (URU / Inter Milan),
Andres Iniesta (SP / FC Barcelona)
Lionel Messi (ARG / FC Barcelona)
Thomas Müller (GER / Bayern Munich),
Nani (POR / Manchester United),
Neymar (BRA, Santos)
Mesut Ozil (GER / Real Madrid),
Gerard Piqué (ESP / FC Barcelona)
Wayne Rooney (ENG / Manchester United)
Bastian Schweinsteiger (GER / Bayern Munich),
Wesley Sneijder (NED / Inter Milan),
Luis Suarez (URU / Liverpool)
David Villa (SP / FC Barcelona)
Xabi Alonso (SP / Real Madrid),
Xavi Hernandez (SP / FC Barcelona).

The 10 coaches nominated:

Vicente Del Bosque (ESP / Team Spain)
Alex Ferguson (SCO / Manchester United),
Rudi Garcia (FRA / Lille)
Josep Guardiola (SP / FC Barcelona)
Jürgen Klopp (GER / Borussia Dortmund)
Joachim Löw (GER / Team of Germany)
Jose Mourinho (POR / Real Madrid),
Oscar Tabarez (URU / Team Uruguay),
André Villas-Boas (POR / Chelsea),
Arsene Wenger (FRA / Arsenal).

Video & Photos: Death of Marco Simoncelli after MotoGP crash in Sepang

2011-10-23T11:29:00.000-07:00

Motorsport was mourning its second death in the space of a week after Italian Marco Simoncelli was killed in a crash at the Malaysian Moto GP.

The Gresini Honda rider lost control of his bike on the second lap of the circuit in Sepang and appeared to be hit by Colin Edwards and then Valentino Rossi as he slid across the track.

Marco Simoncelli's father is comforted as he waits outside a medical centre where the rider was taken following a crash at the Malaysian Grand Prix

The 24-year-old's helmet came off in the collision and he was taken to the medical centre for treatment, but died from his injuries.

Moment of horror: Simocelli loses control on the second lap before fatally colliding with Colin Edwards as Valentino Rossi ahead manages to escape

Simoncelli's death comes exactly a week after British racing driver Dan Wheldon, a former IndyCar champion and two-time Indy 500 race winner, was killed in a 15-car pile-up at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The Buckinghamshire driver was 33.

The organisers cancelled Sunday's race as soon as the extent of Simoncelli's injuries became apparent.

Tragedy: Race marshalls attend to Honda rider Simoncelli (C) following his fatal crash just four minutes after the start of the Malaysian MotoGP race

Speaking at a press conference following the tragedy, medical director Dr Michele Macchiagodena said of Simoncelli: 'Because of the crash he had during the race, in which he was hit by other riders, he suffered a very serious trauma to the head, to the neck and the chest.

'When our medical staff got to him he was unconscious. In the ambulance because there was a cardiac arrest they started CPR (cardiac pulmonary resuscitation).

'Immediately in the medical centre, with the help also of the doctor of our staff at the Clinica Mobile and local doctors, he was intubated and it was possible to take off some blood from the thorax.

'The CPR was continued for 45 minutes because we tried to help him for as long as we thought it was possible. Unfortunately it was not possible to help him and at 16:56 (local time) we had to declare he was dead.'

A statement on the MotoGP official website read: 'On Sunday 23rd October, during the MotoGP race at the Shell Advance Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit, San Carlo Honda Gresini's Italian rider Marco Simoncelli suffered a serious accident in which he received critical injuries.

'The race was stopped immediately with the red flag and Simoncelli was transported by ambulance to the circuit medical centre where the medical staff worked to resuscitate him.

'Despite their efforts, Marco sadly succumbed to his injuries at 4:56pm local time.

'Everybody involved in MotoGP extends its deepest condolences to Marco's family, friends and team at this tragic loss.'

Spanish rider Dani Pedrosa had a dispute with fellow factory Honda rider Simoncelli earlier this season, but news of his rival's death left last season's championship runner-up reeling.

Repsol Honda's Pedrosa said: 'In a tragedy like this there is not much to say. I just want to give my condolences to his family and all the people who love him. I've been with his father and all we could do was to hug, nothing else matters.

'It was a fatal accident and everybody in the paddock remains in shock.

'Many times we ourselves forget how dangerous this sport can be and when you lose people on the way nothing has any meaning. It's clear that we all do what we like, what we love, but on days like today nothing matters.'

Simoncelli, who won the 250cc world championship in 2008, clinching the crown in Sepang, stepped up to MotoGP in 2010.

His death was the first fatality in MotoGP since Japan's Daijiro Katoh died from his injuries sustained at the 2003 Japanese Grand Prix.

When asked about Simoncelli's helmet coming off, race director Paul Butler said at the press conference: 'I think if I may reply, that will be for another occasion. Quite clearly the consequences and circumstances surrounding the accident will be thoroughly investigated.'

Simoncelli, who won the 250cc world championship in 2008, clinching the crown in Sepang, stepped up to MotoGP in 2010.

His death was the first fatality in MotoGP since Japan's Daijiro Katoh died from his injuries sustained at the 2003 Japanese Grand Prix.

When asked about Simoncelli's helmet coming off, race director Paul Butler said at the press conference: 'I think if I may reply, that will be for another occasion. Quite clearly the consequences and circumstances surrounding the accident will be thoroughly investigated.'

Newly-crowned champion Casey Stoner admitted immediately after the crash he had feared for Simoncelli.

'As soon as I saw the footage it just makes you sick inside,' the Australian told BBC2.

Cancelled: Rubbish covers the track after the race was abandoned early in Sepang

'Whenever the helmet comes off that's not a good sign.'

Tributes poured in for Simoncelli from teams and riders.

Briton's Jenson Button wrote on his Twitter account: 'R.I.P Marco... Such an exciting talent lost. My thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone involved in MotoGP. Motorsport can be so cruel...'

British MotoGP rider Cal Crutchlow wrote on Twitter: 'RIP Marco Simoncelli! A great rider and all round nice guy. My thoughts are with all his family & friends. I will never forget today.'

Formula One driver Mark Webber tweeted: 'R.I.P Marco A special talent that will be missed... Thinking of your loved ones, and all the motogp paddock..mark.'

A message on Simoncelli's Gresini Honda team website read simply 'CIAO "SUPER SIC"'.

Support: Simoncelli's girlfriend Kate is consoled by a TV crew member following her partner's tragic crash

Devastating: Paolo Simoncelli, Marco's father, is comforted by his son's manager Carlo Pernat outside the medical centre following the accident

The Rizla Suzuki team wrote: 'All at Rizla Suzuki are deeply affected by today's tragic events and send their deepest condolences to Marco's family and friends during this time of great loss.
'R.I.P Marco Simoncelli, 20 January 1987 - 23 October 2011 - A true competitor

.'

Video: D-Generation X Reunite at SmackDown (October 11, 2011)

2011-10-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

D-Generation X Reunite at SmackDown [Taping Results]

2011-10-12T05:53:00.000-07:00

D-Generation X Reunite at SmackDown..
(SmackDown spoilers from 10/10/2011's tapings in Dallas, Texas. These will air this Friday on SyFy)

Shawn Michaels and Triple H (D-Generation X) reunited prior to last night's SmackDown taping in Dallas, Texas. The duo teased fans that a future WrestleMania would take place at the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas which is the home of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys. The Stadium itself is the largest domed stadium in the world, has the world's largest column-free interior and the largest high definition video screen which hangs from 20 yard line to 20 yard line.

Fans in attendance noted that DX cut a "non-pg" promo before being interrupted by Vince McMahon.

The segment will not air on television and was a treat for those who attended. Shawn Michaels confirmed this via his Twitter following the event: "As I've said before. I will not be on Smackdown. It was just DX doing their silly stuff for the live audience which requires screaming."

Dark Match:Brodus Clay defeated another local wrestler in a squash.

SmackDown:
* Teddy Long opened this week’s show with John Laurinaitis and announced a 41-man battle royal for tonight’s show. The winner will get a title shot of any title they choose. They are celebrating SmackDown being the 2nd longest running episodic TV show ever.

* The battle royal is up next and the ring fills with pretty much the entire roster.

* The battle royal consisted of black Sin Cara, Derrick Bateman, Cody Rhodes, Matt Striker, William Regal, Michael McGillicutty, Ted DiBiase, Curt Hawkins, Tyler Reks, Daniel Bryan, John Morrison, Trent Baretta, Percy Watson, Dolph Ziggler, Justin Gabriel, Mason Ryan, Primo Colon, Drew McIntyre, Jinder Mahal, Wade Barrett, Heath Slater, Jack Swagger, CM Punk, Sheamus, The Miz, R-Truth, Randy Orton, Santino Marella, Alex Riley, Kofi Kingston, David Otunga, Zack Ryder, Ezekiel Jackson, Christian, The Usos and a few others. The blue Sin Cara was not in the match for whatever reason.

It comes down to The Miz and Randy Orton. They both tumbled through the ropes and landed on the floor but Miz hit first so Orton is the winner. Orton picks the World Heavyweight Title and will face Mark Henry tonight.

* Teddy Long makes Sheamus vs. Alberto Del Rio for later tonight.

* Divas Champion Beth Phoenix defeated Kelly Kelly in a non-title match.

* Backstage segment with Kofi Kingston, Zack Ryder, Dolph Ziggler and Jack Swagger.

* Blue Sin Cara vs. Justin Gabriel starts with the black Sin Cara attacking the original on the ramp. He takes the blue mask and puts it on, then defeats Gabriel.

* Alberto Del Rio beats Sheamus with the help of Christian. After the match, Christian beats Sheamus down and hits him with a pair of spears.

* Zack Ryder and Kofi Kingston beat Dolph Ziggler and Jack Swagger in a solid match.

* Randy Orton defeats Mark Henry by DQ when Cody Rhodes interferes and hits Orton. Big Show runs out to make the save and chokeslams Henry. Orton gets pissed and RKO’s Cody.

Source: wrestlenewz.com

Enjoy.

Denmark, France, Greece, Russia, Sweden qualify

2011-10-12T00:16:00.000-07:00

Denmark, France, Greece, Russia and best runners-up Sweden took the last five automatic places at UEFA EURO 2012 while the next month's eight-team play-off lineup was also confirmed.

Denmark, France, Greece, Russia and best runners-up Sweden secured the last five automatic places in the UEFA EURO 2012 finals while next month's play-off lineup was also confirmed as the nine qualifying groups concluded.

Already through alongside co-hosts Poland and Ukraine were holders Spain, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy and England. Now 12 teams are confirmed for the finals draw on 2 December in Kyiv while next month's play-offs will involve Turkey, the Republic of Ireland, Estonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, Portugal and the Czech Republic.

There were two direct contests for group supremacy and for a while it seemed as if Bosnia and Herzegovina would make their first final tournament at France's expense as they led 1-0 in Paris, but Samir Nasri's penalty 12 minutes from time ensured Les Bleus topped Group D.

Meanwhile in Copenhagen, Denmark secured the victory against Portugal they needed to overtake their visitors in Group H. The 2-1 result means Portugal go to the play-offs, pipping Norway – who beat Cyprus 3-1 – on goal difference.

In another first-versus-second fixture Sweden knew they could not overtake the Netherlands in Group E. However, a home win would mean automatic qualification as the runners-up with the best record against the sides first, third, fourth and fifth in their section. And having had a lead wiped out and then fallen behind, the Swedes replied with two goals in a minute for a 3-2 advantage that took them to the finals, and also meant they were the only side to take points off the Dutch.

Meanwhile, both Greece and Russia began the day needing only a point to seal their places and did so with victories. With 11 minutes left Greece were actually heading for the play-offs as they were 1-0 down in Georgia and Croatia were beating Latvia 2-0, but substitute Giorgos Fotakis and Angelos Charisteas ensured Greece topped Group F.

It was more comfortable for Russia, who saw off Andorra 6-0 to win Group B two points ahead of the Republic of Ireland, who sealed a play-off by beating Armenia 2-1. Also in Thursday's draw, despite not having a game tonight, are Estonia, thanks to Serbia's 1-0 loss in Slovenia giving the Baltic nation a first play-off as Group C runners-up behind Italy.

The Azzurri only dropped two points but Germany and Spain completed perfect runs and denied their opponents play-off chances. Germany made it ten Group A wins with a 3-1 defeat of Belgium, leaving Turkey second after their 1-0 victory against Azerbaijan. Meanwhile Spain overcame Scotland 3-1 for an eighth success, allowing the Czech Republic to end as runners-up with a 4-1 triumph in Lithuania.
Only in one section was everything wrapped up before today, England having won Group G and Montenegro with a first play-off, despite tonight's 2-0 loss in Switzerland. They can now await the play-off draw at 13.00CET on Thursday in Krakow when the four ties to take place on 11/12 and 15 November will be determined.

Final standings

Automatic qualifiers
(draw 2 December, matches 8 June to 1 July)
Hosts: Poland, Ukraine
Group A: Germany
Group B: Russia
Group C: Italy
Group D: France
Group E: Netherlands, Sweden*
Group F: Greece
Group G: England
Group H: Denmark
Group I: Spain (holders)

*Best runners-up

Play-offs
(draw Thursday, matches 11/12 & 15 November)
Turkey
Republic of Ireland
Estonia
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Croatia
Montenegro
Portugal
Czech Republic

(Four teams to be seeded based on coefficient tbc)

The nine pool winners, plus the runners-up with the best record against the sides placed first, third, fourth and fifth in their pool qualified directly, with the other second-placed teams entering the play-offs. More details, including the procedure for breaking ties and determining the best runners-up, are in the Official Regulations.

Download Link of Shawn Michaels’ MacMillan River Adventures Episode 109

2011-10-11T10:19:00.000-07:00

Download Links:
FILESERVE
http://www.fileserve.com/file/zHm3uSx/Shawn.Michaels.MacMillan.River.Adventures.S01E09.HDTV.x264-RUDOS.mp4

FILESONIC
http://www.filesonic.com/file/2227597071/Shawn.Michaels.MacMillan.River.Adventures.S01E09.HDTV.x264-RUDOS.mp4

WUPLOAD
http://www.wupload.com/file/213285222/Shawn.Michaels.MacMillan.River.Adventures.S01E09.HDTV.x264-RUDOS.mp4

GLUMBO
http://glumbouploads.com/78qk75zs4qaw/Shawn.Michaels.MacMillan.River.Adventures.S01E09.HDTV.x264-RUDOS.mp4

The Top Five WWE/WWF Intercontinental Champions of All Time

2011-10-10T10:07:00.000-07:00

From the early days of the WWF to the modern WWE era, the Intercontinental Championship has been one of the most popular championships in wrestling. The I-C Title has been held by some of the most legendary wrestlers in the world. What makes the Intercontinental Title special is that it is often a springboard towards the WWE Title . The greatest Intercontinental Champions always made their matches seem like a World Title defense. Here are my top five Intercontinental Champions of all time.

Number Five - Shawn Michaels

When it comes to putting on a huge show, Shawn Michaels is simply the greatest. I really could care less how long of a reign a superstar has. I am much more interested in what he did with his time as Intercontinental Champion. Michaels is the perfect example of a superstar that uses the I-C belt to springboard to bigger things. While he was Intercontinental Champion , however, he was always elevating the belt's status. The ladder match with Razor Ramon is the perfect example.

Number Four - Honky Tonk ManI
could not stand the Honky Tonk Man, but that was the point. He was the ultimate heel character as champion, managing to hold on to the belt through any means necessary. By the time he was destroyed by the Ultimate Warrior, my friends wanted him slaughtered. He drove us nuts and I can respect that now as a wrestling fan.

Number Three - Don Muraco
Muraco was always the best bad guy around and was a great Intercontinental Champion. He embodied to me what the bad guy was supposed to be. He was strong, big and scary, and always seemed to win despite the efforts of better men. Muraco was a legend in my mind.

Number Two - Chris Jericho
Boo all you want, but Jericho made the Intercontinental Title relevant to the modern age of WWE. Jericho won and lost the title every other week it seemed, but he was the ultimate champion. When you watched Jericho, you felt as though the match meant something. I would just assume see Jericho as Intercontinental Champion as anybody…ever.

Number One - Macho Man Randy Savage
Savage was the greatest simply because he defined the Intercontinental Belt. His match with Ricky Steamboat was among the best in wrestling history, and the feuds were always a pinnacle of the program. Though he is gone now, his memories live on through numerous WWF/WWE matches and memories. The Intercontinental Championships were some of the greatest of those great memories .

Shawn Michaels’ MacMillan River Adventures Episode 109

2011-10-07T01:47:00.000-07:00

CLICK HERE to See the Full Album
or Download the Show CLICK HERE

CLICK HERE to see the Full Album
or Download the Show CLICK HERE

Video: WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels and his son Cameron appear together

2011-10-06T11:53:00.000-07:00

WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels and his son Cameron are featured together in a video that was released to promote the Shawn Michaels' MacMillan River Adventures television show.

Diego Forlan and Victoria Saravia in Milan

2011-10-02T21:58:00.000-07:00

The paparazzi pursuing Forlan are not asleep even in Italy. As soon as he appeared on the streets of Milan with a beautiful girl, they immediately took his picture. But because the paparazzi are Italians, they are not familiar with the Argentine-Uruguayan showbiz, and a girl for some time remained “unidentified object.” The photos were reprinted with caution by various blogs around the world, but nobody really knew who she was and what she was doing with Forlan. Until finally the mysterious pictures caught the eye of the inhabitants of Rio de la Plata. “Hey, this is Victoria Saravia!” – screamed the press and began to propagate a new cover story for tabloids.

Victoria Saravia is a 24-year-old Uruguayan model who now lives in Argentina. She is fairly well-known on both sides of the Rio de la Plata, because, firstly, she is a daughter of the famous Uruguayan politics Villanueva Saravia, who died in 1998 under unknown circumstances. And secondly, Victoria is a former girlfriend of another famous Uruguayan striker Carlos Bueno. Currently, she is on vacation in Europe, she was in Paris, then Ibiza, then Madrid, but tomorrow she returns to Buenos Aires. What kind of relationship links Diego and Victoria is still unknown, but the speculations in the press have already begun.

In our opinion: it’s not true, they are not in a relationship. We all know that these kind of stories give the models 5 minute of fame, boost their modelling careers, and raise their contract $$$. But we shall see… If it is true, good luck to them both. But if it is indeed a lie, it’s not nice to build a fame on the name of Forlan, really.

Kaka: I never wanted to leave Real Madrid, and Jose Mourinho insisted I should remain

2011-09-29T13:17:00.000-07:00

The Brazilian midfielder, who is finally hitting the form which earned him a move to the Santiago Bernabeu two years ago, has maintained his desire to stay in the Spanish capital.
Real Madrid midfielder Kaka has revealed that he never considered departing the club, and remains fully committed to their cause despite a difficult start to life in Spain.

The Brazilian star spoke of his admiration for his employers and how he has ambitions of lifting silverware with the Spanish giants.

"I am indebted to Real Madrid," Kaka told reporters. "It would have been very easy to have left, but that is why I chose to raise my game. I have a dream of succeeding at Madrid which I want to realise."

The 28-year-old put in a man-of-the-match display against Ajax in the Champions League on Tuesday, and admits he is delighted to have repaid the faith shown by both president Florentino Perez and coach Jose Mourinho.

"Many reports have claimed that Madrid wanted to sell me, but he [Perez] told me he wouldn't and kept his word," Kaka continued. "I owe a lot to the president."

"Three parties decided [on me staying]. I did not want to leave, Mourinho did not want me to go and the club did not want to sell me either.

"After the game [Perez] gave me a hug and congratulated me. He has always supported us, even through in bad times."

Kaka arrived from AC Milan in the summer of 2009 as one of Perez's first signings after returning to Real Madrid as president, but a mixture of injuries and poor form initially prevented him from living up to his price tag.

Watch Episode 41 of the Watcher: Shawn Michaels, Comics, Games and More!

2011-09-24T05:22:00.000-07:00

Marvel's Agent M and Ben Morse welcome a special guest to "The Watcher": Shawn Michaels ! Plus this week's Stack Attack and more!
Updated Sep 23, 2011 6:07 pm

Former Chelsea boss Ranieri to manage Inter

2011-09-22T02:31:00.000-07:00

Former Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri has been appointed as Inter Milan's new manager following the sacking of Gian Piero Gasperini, according to reports from Italy.

Ranieri, who has also managed Roma, Juventus and Valencia in the past, has been drafted in as the Italian giants seek a set of safe hands with which to stablise their disastrous start to the season.

"I think I will need to talk a lot with the squad, the mental aspect is very important," Ranieri told RAI Sport of his prospective move to the San Siro.

"Inter are a great team, we have to pick up the pace after this false start. The players are there and we have everything to lift the team."

'The Tinkerman', as is he affectionately known, has been out of work since quitting Roma in Febuary and is the fourth man to take over at Inter following the exit of Jose Mourinho, with Rafael Benitez, Leonardo and Gasperini all failing to stop the side's decline.

"Gasperini had every right to try to execute his ideas, he tried to make his system work with all his strength, but without success. I do not think he can be criticised, he tried to implement his ideas until the end.

"For me, every system can bring victories, if Inter have always played in a specific way, there must be a reason," said Ranieri.

Others linked to the job include the current England manager Fabio Capello, but he looks set to stay in the job until the end of Euro 2012.

If given the top job, as reported, Ranieri refused to reveal his goals for the remainder of the campaign.

"I do not like to promise things, I want the best from these players, who have so much to give," he said.

Hunting In NYC With Cabela’s And Shawn Michaels (Photos & Video)

2011-09-20T14:27:00.000-07:00

Shawn Michaels shares his thoughts on Cabela's Big Game Hunter (by Activision) from the Big Game Hunter trailer while in New York City September 15th...

Video Interview: Shawn talks about his retirement and much more..

2011-09-20T04:17:00.000-07:00

Shawn talks about his retirement , wrestling etiquette, Careful workers, big men, Ric Flair, Dynamite Kid, much more...

Interview: Wrestling Superstar Shawn Michaels on His Favorite Hunting Spots

2011-09-19T04:39:00.000-07:00

In New York to promote the latest first-person shooter from Cabela's and Activision, professional wrestling superstar Shawn Michaels spoke with Complex about his current passion: hunting. Since retiring in 2010, Michaels has dedicated himself to the pursuit that, to hear him tell it, has long been part of his life, and for reasons that might surprise the scores of viewers who know him best as the Heartbreak Kid.

Complex: How does hunting compare to wrestling?
Shawn Michaels: I suppose a lot of people don’t understand that one of the things that drew me to hunting was the peace and the solitude, the mushy spiritual stuff, strangely enough. The quiet away from 75,000 roaring fans. The fans, that’s very wonderful; I get a great charge from that. But traveling the world, being in hotels, airplanes all of the time, getting out into the woods became my way to get away from that. There is no adrenaline rush I get from hunting. I mean, sure I’ve been in situations where I’ve been 15 feet from a bear. A month ago, we got charged by an 8,000-lb. elephant.

Where did this happen?
In Africa. In Botswana. Obviously things like that get you going. But you don’t go into the field hoping for some near-death experience. Over the years, with hunting, I think what’s become my favorite part of hunting is how self-sufficient I’m becoming.

If you had to name 5 things that every man should have under his belt, should be able to do to be self-sufficient, what would they be?
Well, the basics: shelter, food, and water. After that, it’s protection. You have to be able to defend yourself. You know, Triple H and I always joke, “Shawn’s my backup plan. If everything goes to hell in a hand basket, I’ll move to Texas and he’ll be able to get us through.” It all started years ago when I was off [from the WWE] with my back injury. I started to learn all this stuff. And I guess, because it was so much the opposite of the glitz and the glamour of the other, it appealed to me. And when I went back [to wrestling] I didn’t get to do it as much, but it’s still always been apart of my life. It wasn’t something I brought to work, though. There were a couple guy—Hunter and Nash—that knew that side of me, but it wasn’t anything I wore on my sleeve.

What are your favorite places that you’ve hunted?
I’m partial to Texas. But Africa was extremely interesting. And the Yukon, where I’ll be going in a couple of days, I got to go there for the first time last year. It’s fascinating to go somewhere where you’re away from everything. There are no houses, no buildings, no roads, no people. And for a little less extreme hunting, any place in the West—Colorado, Utah, Montana—that’s just beautiful country.

What’s been your proudest hunting achievement?
At this point, it was my son taking his first white-tailed deer last year. Passing along that heritage to him, but also that he was so proud to be the guy that supplied dinner—that meant a great deal to me. As proud as he was of the animal, he was more proud that he fed the family. I know to some people, on a lot of levels, that’s dorky and strange and old-fashioned, but to us those are things that I want to instill in my children. I don’t want them to ever lose touch with our heritage. The life of a WWE superstar is awesome, but I want my kids to have a life balanced by more traditional ideas about what our life and our country used to be. And still can be if we want it to be.

What if Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi switched teams? A fan’s view

2011-09-18T02:42:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona forward Lionel Messi are two of the best players in the world. They play for two of the best teams in the world. Both players and teams have celebrated much success. But what would happen if Ronaldo and Messi switched teams? Here are some thoughts on what might happen to Ronaldo, Messi and the two teams.

Sharing the Ball
The system at Barcelona is dependent on passing and possession. It is orchestrated by their world class midfielders Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta. Xavi and Iniesta maintain possession by holding the ball and making strategic passes. Messi fits in well with this system since he supports Xavi and Iniesta possessing the ball. However, Ronaldo would have to adjust. With Real Madrid, Ronaldo is allowed to be more selfish with the ball. He is asked to beat defenders off the dribble. Ronaldo would have to learn to share the ball more on Barcelona.

Goals Scored
Ronaldo and Messi are prolific goal scorers. Ronaldo is a clinical finisher. He would flourish on Barcelona with Xavi and Iniesta setting him up. Messi is a proven scorer on Barcelona. But a big reason for his success is the superior midfield that he plays with. Messi has not had the same goal scoring success with the Argentina National Team. This suggests that Messi may rely on his teammates more than Ronaldo does. If Messi and Ronaldo swapped teams, I think Messi would have less goals and Ronaldo would have more at this point in their careers.

Best Team in the World

Barcelona are regarded as the best football club in the world right now. That probably would not change if Ronaldo and Messi changed teams. I think Ronaldo would improve the Barcelona offense with his finishing skills. Messi would be the best player on Real Madrid, but he would not elevate the team above Barcelona.

Best Player in the World
In 2011, Messi won the FIFA Ballon d'Or trophy, crowning him the best player in the world. He also won the 2011 UEFA Best Player in Europe Award. These recent distinctions are primarily due to his performance with Barcelona. Ronaldo could have been the winner of these awards if he was on Barcelona. On Barcelona, Ronaldo would have a better supporting cast. That would make him even more dangerous. Messi might not be as successful on Real Madrid since many of his goals are a result of the support from his excellent Barcelona teammates.

You Decide Who do you think would flourish more if Ronaldo and Messi switched teams? Would Barcelona or Real Madrid have more success? Leave a comment below. If you are not sure, here are two videos to help you decide...

Cristiano Ronaldo right about jealous fans – Levante's Javi Venta agrees with Real Madrid star

2011-09-17T04:14:00.000-07:00

Cristiano Ronaldo was right when he said that Dinamo Zagreb fans booed him because they are jealous of him, Levante defender Javi Venta has exclusively told Goal.com.

The Portuguese winger was subjected to intense booing from the crowd during Real Madrid’s Champions League victory in Croatia in midweek, and afterward said that “it was surely because I’m good-looking, rich and a great footballer.”

But Venta told Goal.com that while Ronaldo had a point, he should have thought twice about saying so.

“Honestly, on one hand I think what he says is right,” the 35-year-old admitted.

“Unfortunately it’s true that a lot of people are jealous, but the reality is that you have to be careful what you say.

“Many children set a lot of stock by what they hear from people like him, Messi and others, so you have to be polite when you speak.”

However, the defender’s manager, Juan Ignacio Martinez, believes the comments were a heat-of-the-moment mistake.

“Cristiano is an icon, but the moment he said what he did he already started to regret it, because what he said goes against the values of Real Madrid,” the Levante coach told Marca.com.

“He was affected by the stress of the match and upset by what has happened. Nothing more than that.”

Levante are Real’s next opposition in La Liga, although Ronaldo himself is a doubt for the game.

Quique Flores Says Inter Have Approached Him About Coaching

2011-09-16T10:49:00.000-07:00

The Gian Piero Gasperini reign as Inter boss might well be coming to a close as former Atletico Madrid boss Quique Flores says that Inter have contacted his agent about a coaching position at the club.

While Massimo Moratti has given Gasperini a vote of confidence and said his job is not on the line, it would seem that Inter are making plans if the club’s losing streak continues.

“There has been an approach with [agent] Jorge Mendes,” Flores told MARCA TV. “If Inter call me, even though Diego Forlan is there, of course I will go.”

Forlan and Flores have failed to see eye-to-eye for several months now, with the Uruguayan striker stating his former coach had a problem with him, and referred to the Spaniard as a troublemaker.

Questioned about his troublesome relationship with Forlan, Flores said it all began after the Uefa Super Cup against Inter in August of 2010.

"On that day, as he celebrated, I saw a different Diego," Flores noted.

'A great player like Cristiano Ronaldo should get more protection from referees' – Real Madrid defender Ricardo Carvalho

2011-09-16T05:52:00.000-07:00

Portuguese centre-back says his compatriot gets unfair treatment from officials, pointing to the torrid night he endured in the Champions League at Dinamo Zagreb.

Real Madrid centre-back Ricardo Carvalho has called upon referees to give his compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo more protection during matches.

Carvalho believes Ronaldo was on the receiving end of some harsh treatment from the opposition during his side's 1-0 victory over Dinamo Zagreb - a match during which he was left requiring stitches following one robust challenge for which there was no punishment.

"Marcelo was sent off, Cristiano took many hits and we feel we got very little justice from the referee, who left a few things," Carvalho told Real Madrid TV.

"The challenge on his ankle was wrong, and it's natural for him to get angry. A great player like him should get more protection."

The former Chelsea man also spoke about the ongoing row surrounding his sudden international retirement at the end of August.

"The Portuguese know it was honour for me to wear the shirt - I love Portugal. I made a mistake and people make mistakes. It's a bad time," he said.

The 33-year-old also pledged his support to Jose Mourinho.

"He always wants what's best for the club," he said.

Real Madrid travel to Levante on Sunday as they look to keep up their 100 per cent start to this season's league campaign.

Shawn Michaels' Appearing at WWE Vengeance?, Tonight's WWE Superstar Matches, More

2011-09-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

Yoshi Tatsu, CM Punk, Zack Ryder and WWE Champion Alberto Del Rio will be going to Japan in the next month or so to do promotional work for WWE's RAW brand shows at the Yokohama Arena in Tokyo on November 30th and December 1st.

There has been talk about having Shawn Michaels at the October 23rd Vengeance pay-per-view from his hometown of San Antonio, Texas, or at the RAW tapings in late October from Houston, Texas to promote the new "Greatest Rivalries: Bret Hart vs. Shawn Michaels" DVD. WWE officials have high hopes for the first release in the Rivalries series.

Matches for tonight's WWE Superstars include Tyson Kidd vs. Ezekiel Jackson, Brodus Clay vs. local wrestler Mike Palmer, Mason Ryan vs. Primo and Drew McIntyre vs. Zack Ryder.

It will take a lot of hard work for Inter to get out of this situation - Julio Cesar

2011-09-15T00:14:00.000-07:00

The Brazilian shot stopper did not expect the home loss against Trabzonspor and has made it clear that the Giuseppe Meazza side have work to do.
Inter goalkeeper Julio Cesar has made it clear that the 1-0 Champions League Group B loss at home against Trabzonspor on Wednesday evening came as a huge surprise for the Serie A representatives and added that they have a lot of work to do.

The Giuseppe Meazza side created plenty of chances to grab the lead, but sloppy finishing prevented them from opening the scoring, while Trabzonspor proved to be much more clinical in front of goal, as Ondrej Celustka netted the winner in the 76th minute.

"We didn't expect a defeat like that but it happened, and now it will take a lot of hard work to get out of this situation," Julio Cesar was quoted as saying by Sky Italia.

"It's a difficult moment, but we all have to be united and work hard to get back on the right path. It's something that we need to discuss between ourselves, to understand and to find what is missing to put us on the right path.

"There are no guilty ones to find, just hard work to do. Against Roma on Saturday? We'll have to play the match of our lives; all of the matches will be like that."

Inter will be looking to record their first win of the season at Stadio Olimpico at the weekend after losing their first three competitive games of the 2011-12 campaign.

Red Alert !! Real Madrid New Official Kit !!

2011-09-14T09:57:00.000-07:00

New Official 3rd Kit of Real Madrid 2011/12 RED get it now Click Here

DX with Shawn Michaels' - MacMillan River Adventures - After the Show 107

2011-09-14T04:40:00.000-07:00

Mistake by CM Punk at WWE RAW 12/09/2011 (Fake Story by Punk)

2011-09-13T00:27:00.000-07:00

Last Night In WWE RAW Triple H and CM Punk face off, days before Night of Champions ! CM Punk Tells little bit Story to WWE 2011 Universe about Night Before WWE Survivor Series 2006 where Team DX (Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Jeff Hardy, CM Punk and Matt Hardy) (with Kelly Kelly) defeated Team Rated-RKO (Edge, Randy Orton, Johnny Nitro, Mike Knox and Gregory Helms) (with Melina)

Live Fake Story for 2011 WWE Universe by
CM Punk: It was 2006 In Philadelphia, The Night Before My 1st WWE PPV Survivor Series ! i was on tag team Captain by DX ! and The Funny Thing about that Night Is 18,000 WWE 2006 Universe weren't chanting DX or HBK or HHH They were chanting CM Punk !!

True Story: 2006 In Philadelphia, The Night Before CM Punk's 1st WWE PPV Survivor Series ! Punk was on tag team Captain by DX ! There wasn't anything Funny at that Night (Punk should stop thinking WWE Is Funny Business), 18,000 WWE 2006 Universe weren't chanting CM PUNK, They were Chanting DX & HBK & HHH !!

In RAW 12/09/2011 They are Chanting CM Punk (no doubt about that) Its 2011 with Out DX or The Greatest Wrestler Of All Time Shawn Michaels.

Night before WWE Survivor Series 2006 Part 1 & Part 2 .

Real Madrid's Mesut Ozil will one day be World Player of the Year - Lothar Matthaus

2011-09-11T23:48:00.000-07:00

The former Germany international claims his compatriot has the ability to win the prestigious award and that he is at the right club to achieve such success.
Lothar Matthaus believes Mesut Ozil could be crowned the World Player of the Year in the not so distant future.

The Real Madrid playmaker has been in superb form for club and country and was nominated for the Fifa Ballon d'Or last year, with Lionel Messi eventually winning the crown.

Matthaus was the last German player to win the award back in 1991, but the former midfielder, who now coaches the Bulgaria national team, is confident Ozil can take the trophy.

"Mesut Ozil has the making of a German world footballer of the year," the 50-year-old told Sonntag-Express.

The former Bayern Munich and Inter player is adamant that playing for a club of Real Madrid's stature will only aid Ozil's hopes of becoming the best in the world.

"Real Madrid are seen internationally as an even bigger club than Bayern, just as the Italian league was stronger when I won the award," he added.

Matthaus also hopes to agree a new deal with the Bulgarian FA to carry on his role as national coach, despite the recent defeats to England and Switzerland.

"I've verbally agreed with a handshake to be given a contract extension. For me it is clear the contract will be extended until 2013 because two gentleman have shaken on it," he concluded.

Milito: We are not Mourinho's Inter

2011-09-11T23:39:00.000-07:00

Diego Milito says the current Inter Milan team cannot be compared to the treble winning side of 2009-10 under Jose Mourinho and has called for the fans to be patient.

The Inter striker's comments came in response to the team's opening 4-3 loss to Palermo in Serie A on Sunday night.

Milito, who bagged a brace in the defeat, admitted after the game that Inter need to "tighten up in defence" as they try to hit the ground the running under new manager Gian Piero Gasperini.

"It's not right to think of the Inter of two years ago," he told Rai Sport.

"Today we are a different team with a new coach who has another scheme in mind compared to those of the past and we have to be able to adapt to it.

"Of course it's going to take time for us players too. For example, today [Sunday] an attacking midfielder like [Wesley] Sneijder played wider than he usually does. I think that he in particular has changed position.

"I repeat, we shouldn't try to compare. I agree that we have to tighten up in defence especially, but this doesn't only involve defenders."

He added: "On a personal level it is always gratifying for a striker to score, but I can't hide my disappointment at the result. Naturally we all want to win, but now it's time to look to the future and try to improve."

Gasperini will be hoping to get Inter off on the right foot on Wednesday when they clash against Turkish club Trabzonspor in their opening Group B game in the UEFA Champions League.

'I am angry with myself' - Julio Cesar accepts blame for Inter's 4-3 loss to Palermo

2011-09-11T23:30:00.000-07:00

Inter goalkeeper Julio Cesar believes his club's 4-3 loss to Palermo is his fault after failing to stop a Fabrizio Miccoli free-kick which turned the game on its head.

"I am really angry with myself. We were playing great, but then after Miccoli's goal I was really angry," blasted Julio Cesar on Sky Sport Italia.
Diego Milito gave Inter the lead against the run of play in the first half before Miccoli responded for Palermo. Milito then converted a penalty, but Abel Hernandez restored parity just minutes later.

After a flurry of exchanges, it was Miccoli and then Mauricio Pinilla who made it 4-2 before Diego Forlan grabbed a late consolation.

The goalkeeper is particularly annoyed at the last two Palermo goals after he was left standing.

"As for Pinilla's strike, had I been a step closer to goal I would have got to the ball," said Cesar. "Miccoli's free-kick, I did not really see the shot come through.

He added, "But, despite the goals, it was a nice game. We had chances, but I think it was that free-kick which decided the game."

Inter play Turkish side Trabzonspor in the Champions League on Wednesday.

How long is WWE’s Shawn Michaels VS. Bret Hart DVD Documentary?

2011-09-11T13:55:00.000-07:00

According to BBFC, the film classification body in the UK, the main feature of WWE’s upcoming Shawn Michaels VS. Bret Hart DVD and Blu-ray runs for 2 hours and 5 minutes.

The total runtime for the DVD version is listed as 7 hours and 18 minutes, whilst the Blu-ray edition has 1 hour and 30 minutes of extra footage on top.

All Blu-ray exclusive extras look to be included in full, rather than highlights.
Via....WWE DVD NEWS.com

Fernando Torres says Chelsea midfielders too old and slow

2011-09-10T02:34:00.000-07:00

Chelsea striker Fernando Torres says his midfield teammates lack leg speed.

The Spain striker has hit just one goal for club and country since a £50million move from Liverpool in January.

He told The Sun: "When I changed clubs, I knew it was going to be a slow process, although I didn't expect it to be so long.

"Chelsea is, between the English teams, maybe the least English.

"That's because of the kind of player Chelsea has — an older player, who plays very slow, who has a lot of possession — and that's what the club is trying to change now."

It's the home stretch! 24/7 click for the best coverage of Chelsea's final transfer market moves

DX reunion scheduled on MacMillan River Adventures

2011-09-09T08:51:00.000-07:00

DX reunion scheduled as WWE star Shawn Michaels and Triple H team on MacMillan River Adventures.

Triple H's guest appearance on Shawn Michaels' MacMillan River Adventures will air on September 13 on Outdoor Channel. The duo is teaming up for a two-part episode. Watch the show on Tuesdays at 11:30 p.m. ET, Wednesday at 3:00 a.m., and Saturdays at 7:00 p.m. ET only on the Outdoor Channel.

Inter sorry for Forlan error

2011-09-09T07:32:00.000-07:00

Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has apologised for the mistake that saw Diego Forlan named in their Champions League squad for the group stages.

New signing Forlan appeared for Atletico Madrid in the qualifying rounds of the Europe League, hence making himself unavailable to Inter until the knock-out stages of the Champions League (assuming they get that far).

To make matters worse, Forlan's inclusion in Inter's 25-man squad came at the cost of Luc Castaignos, leaving the Italians unable to call on either striker.

"I'm sorry mostly for Castaignos because otherwise he could have played," Moratti said. "The Forlan oversight is fairly serious and it's not something we can fix, we have to find a way of avoiding it in the future."

Uruguay striker Forlan was bought as a direct replacement for striker Samuel Eto'o, who left Inter to join Russian side Anzhi for a reported fee of £25 million this summer. Eto's sale was widely criticised by Inter fans, who feel the club should have done more to keep the Cameroon international.

"The fans are very sensitive to big problems and the difficult moments the club finds itself in, and of course sometimes they can't help but show their dissent," Moratti said. "I understand that, it's human. The financial fairplay forces painful decisions to be made to come back within the parameters.

"But I'm convinced we'll still be very strong."

Sneijder: Jose told me to stay at Inter

2011-09-09T07:21:00.000-07:00

Inter Milan star Wesley Sneijder claims Jose Mourinho told him to reject a move to Manchester United and stay at the San Siro.

Mourinho, now at Real Madrid, guided Inter to the Champions League, Serie A and Coppa Italia treble in 2009-10 and made Sneijder the playmaker of the all-conquering side.

Sneijder has admitted that he was in contact with Premier League champions United during the summer transfer window but a move never materialised and the 27-year-old revealed his former manager played a big part in the decision.

"Mourinho called me and he told me to stay. He has an Inter heart and he has always told me to remain," Sneijder told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"I am happy to have stayed because I never wanted to leave and so I no longer want to speak about Manchester United."

Sneijder had long been linked with a move to Old Trafford but when team-mate Samuel Eto'o was sold to Anzhi Makhachkala it was always unlikely that Inter would allow another star name leave the club.

"My agent called me and told me Inter wanted to sell. I spoke with Manchester United, but then the Eto'o sale started and so things changed," the Holland international explained.

Despite Sneijder's claims that he is happy at Inter the UK press have been full of reports that a move to Old Trafford could be back on in January.

The Sunday Mirror claims it was Sneijder's demands that scuppered a £30 million summer switch but the player has told 'people close to him' that a move to United could be resurrected in January.

A source told the newspaper: "Wesley wanted to go to United and was in negotiations until quite late. They couldn't agree terms but he is still saying he will end up at United."

Spain, Netherlands & Italy book Euro 2012 places after Tuesday's wins

2011-09-09T06:45:00.000-07:00

The European trio won their respective matches and have all booked places in the European Championship next year.
Spain, Italy and the Netherlands have all sealed automatic qualification for Euro 2012 after winning their respective matches on Tuesday.

The current European and world champions were odds-on to beat Liechtenstein and confirmed their billing with a 6-0 mauling, with Alvaro Negredo and David Villa each bagging a brace.

Italy was made to work hard to beat Slovenia at home as a late Giampaolo Pazzini strike proved the difference, while the Netherlands saw Finland off 2-0 with goals from Kevin Strootman and Luuk de Jong.

With two games left to play, the Dutch have not yet secured the top spot in their group, but they have assured themselves of a place at Euro 2012, as they will finish at the very least as the best runner-up of the qualifiers.

The trio will join Germany, who secured qualification last Friday after beating Austria 6-2, and Euro 2012 hosts Poland and Ukraine in the list of teams who are already qualified for the showpiece event, which will take place from June 8 to July 1.

Croatia, Greece and England have booked their spots in the eight-team playoff regardless of results in the final two matchdays.

Real Madrid Transfer News: Ronaldo, Neymar, Suarez and Hernandez in Today’s Press

2011-09-08T06:46:00.000-07:00

All the latest transfer rumours from Real Madrid for Monday 5 September 2011. Real Madrid are rumoured to be ready to make bids for Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez and Luiz Suarez in the January transfer window. Ronaldo has told Neymar to join Real Madrid in the next transfer window whilst Cristiano Ronaldo has claimed Real Madrid is the world best team in an interview with UEFA.

Brazil and Real Madrid legendary striker Ronaldo has told Neymar that he should join Real Madrid over rivals Barcelona this January.

Reports over the weekend claimed that the Brazilian forward was poised to join Barcelona but Santos has dismissed the rumours. Ronaldo has told the young striker that whilst both options are favourable for the development of his career, Real Madrid is the club for him.

"Both options are great, but I still hope he goes to Real Madrid, where I spent five years," Ronaldo told Terra. "I think it would be better for him," he added.

Neymar has always affirmed he is in no rush to embark on a move in Europe, but two-time World Cup winner Ronaldo says the 19-year-old needs to leave his homeland sooner rather than later. "Brazil has become too small for Neymar," Ronaldo added. "This is his moment and he needs to have the ambition to conquer the world, rather than just be the best in Brazil," the Real Madrid legend continued.

Jose Mourinho is said to be keen to sign Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez.

The Mexican international was a revelation for the club last season and has attracted attention from Real Madrid with Jose Mourinho said to be ready to test Manchester United's resolve to keep the forward. Javier Hernandez's agent earlier this year revealed that any offers for 'Chicharito' would have to be considered, but the former Chivas Guadalajara striker is happy at Old Trafford and is not looking to leave the club.

Caughtoffside.com also reports that Jose Mourinho and his Real Madrid side will make a move for Liverpool striker Luis Suarez. The website claims that Mourinho is keen o land the Uruguayan international in January after missing out of Neymar in the transfer window and will play on the fact that Madrid can offer the player Champions League football.

Cristiano Ronaldo has told UEFA that it his belief that Real Madrid are the world's number one side.

According to Goal.com, former Manchester United star man claims that despite Barcelona's recent dominance at home and abroad, Real Madrid still remain the side to beat.

"Real Madrid are the best club in the world and [there is] a lot of envy," he told UEFA in a recent interview.

Jose Mourinho's side started their 2011-12 campaign with a 6-0 away win over Real Zaragoza, with the 26-year-old netting a hat-trick, and he feels that it could be a successful season in the Spanish capital city.

"I think this will be a great year for us," he continued

Monica Bellucci "Un Ete Brulant" photocall at the Palazzo del Cinema during the 68th Venice International Film Festival. (September 2, 2011)

2011-09-08T00:09:00.000-07:00

Check Out All Monice Bellucci's Photo About 68th Venice International Film Festival
September, 2011 in Venice, Italy CLICK HERE

Monica Bellucci at The Lancia Cafe - September 3, 2011

2011-09-07T23:46:00.000-07:00

Monica Bellucci at The Lancia Cafe - September 3, 2011

Castrol EDGE presents ‘Ronaldo Tested to the Limit’ (w/VIDEO)

2011-09-07T09:56:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow evening on Sky Sports 2 at 8pm you can watch a documentary starring one of the world’s greatest footballers, Cristiano Ronaldo, showing what makes him one of the most talented sportsmen of his generation.

Produced by Castrol EDGE, the documentary explores the idea of mental and physical strength providing an in-depth look at the skills and strength required for Ronaldo to perform at the very highest level.

Naturally, being Castrol EDGE, there is an automotive purpose to the exercise – the company will use the marketing of the documentary to highlight it’s high-performance motor oils – which their tests show to be up to 40% stronger than a leading competitor.

Ronaldo is in Madrid today for an exclusive premiere of the eagerly awaited documentary, in which the Real Madrid and Portugal star takes on a series of challenges, including trying to blast one of his trademark free kicks through a wall of glass and going head-to-head against an elite sprinter in a test of his speed and agility.

The footballer will be arriving in style later this afternoon, pulling into the venue in an Audi R8 Spyder driven by Carlos Sainz – winner of the 2010 Dakar Rally who is also an avid Real Madrid fan. Ronaldo will then officially launch proceedings which will see the documentary, which includes expert insights from Arsene Wenger and Fabio Capello, screened to over a thousand football fans inside the venue.

So how will Ronaldo respond when faced with the most extreme challenges? Take a look at our teaser videos (below) ! and tune into Sky Sports 2 at 8pm tomorrow evening.

Ronaldo hopes to end his career at Madrid (Hala Madrid)

2011-09-07T09:18:00.000-07:00

MADRID: Cristiano Ronaldo has expressed a desire to stay at Real Madrid for the rest of his career.

The former Manchester United striker has only won one major trophy in two years at the club, but speaking to British television station, Sky Sports on Tuesday, he insisted he would be delighted to end his career at the club.

"I would sign for another 10 years, until the end of my career," said Ronaldo, adding a rider.

"Nobody knows what will happen in the future, I can't lie and say I will be here another 10 years with Madrid, or that I will never play for United again. We will have to see what the future holds in store for me," he clarified.

"I am not going to close the door on a possible return to the English Premier League, as I know it well, the players and the atmosphere. I most like Manchester United, but I can't guarantee that I will return, because I am happy at Madrid," said the striker.

Ronaldo admitted he had a close relationship with Manchester United coach Sir Alex Ferguson who, he said, had helped him develop as a player. He also added that he remained in contact with some of his former teammates at the club.

"I am not going to stop speaking to old friends and when I have the chance I speak to Alex Ferguson. He was important for me and it is good to speak to him," said Ronaldo, who explained why he had moved to Real Madrid in 2009.

"There is a beginning and an end for everything, what I did at Manchester closed a chapter. I won nearly everything there and I am always looking for new challenges. I didn't join Madrid for money but for the challenge and also to be closer to my family, for questions of language and for the climate," said Ronaldo.

Lionel Messi needs to score 1283 goals to be better than me - Brazil legend Pele

2011-09-07T05:06:00.000-07:00

Outspoken Santos great believes Barcelona dynamo needs to score more goals than he did if he is to be considered the best.

Brazil legend Pele insists Barcelona forward Lionel Messi must score at least 1283 goals during his career to be crowned the best ever player.

Speaking after his former club Santos beat Penarol 2-1 to lift the Copa Libertadores on Wednesday evening, the 70-year-old told the press: "Messi better than Pele? To get there he needs to score more than 1283 goals."

Pele appeared to hit back at former Argentina coach Diego Maradona who recently claimed Neymar was bad-mannered just like the three-time World Cup winner, after the Santos forward said he could be better than Messi by staying in Brazil, rather than moving to Europe where Real Madrid have been linked with him.

Pele added: "Neymar has great talent. I hope Neymar doesn't end up like Messi, who plays so well for his club but does nothing for his country [Argentina]."

Cristiano Ronaldo voted the most handsome football player in the Spanish La Liga

2011-09-06T10:29:00.000-07:00

Cristiano Ronaldo was voted the most handsome football player in the Spanish League "La Liga", in a voting poll made online, by the newspaper "Marca". Ronaldo collected 22,8% of the votes and was followed by Fernando Llorente (19,1%) and Gerard Piqué (16,6%).

Besides being one of the best football players this sports has ever seen, Cristiano Ronaldo also manages to be ranked #1 when it comes to ellect the most handsome football player in Spain. In a sort of beauty contest that Marca.com put online, Ronaldo won the first prize, proving once more that his fame and reputation doesn't have any parallel in football. CR7 finished this voting poll in first place, leaving the second place for Athletico Bilbao's Fernando Llorente and the third place to Barcelona's Gerard Piqué (Shakira's boyfriend).

Even though this doesn't help him much on the pitch, Cristiano Ronaldo has always been known for caring and paying attention to his looks. The Portuguese player, who is currently dating the Russian topmodel Irina Shayk, certainly has a lot of people who hate him in Spain (may that be for envy or just because they are Barcelona fans), which somehow makes this "prize award" being even more surprising, coming from an online voting poll with a huge Spanish representation.

In the other hand, Marca.com also opened a poll for the ugly side of the game. Real Madrid also ended represented in these rankings, with Angel Di Maria and Mesut Ozil taking the first and second places. Parejo and Puyol (Barcelona), finished 3rd and 4th place respectively.

Monica Bellucci talks about nude scene in That Summer (French: Un été brûlant)

2011-09-05T10:41:00.000-07:00

Actress Monica Bellucci says her decision to appear nude in her latest film "That Summer" was an act of generosity.

Bellucci said the request came at a "fragile moment as a woman," just a month and a half after giving birth. Bellucci said that when she accepts a role, she also trusts the director. She said she felt protected by director Philippe Garrel during the filming of the scene.

Bellucci shares the red carpet at the Venice Film Festival on Friday night with her husband Vincent Cassel, who appears in David Cronenberg's "A Dangerous Method."

Garrel's "That Summer" also is in competition for the Golden Lion, which will be awarded Sept. 10.

How to Remove Windows Genuine Advantage Notifications

2011-09-04T01:23:00.000-07:00

Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) notifications occur when your computer hasn't passed the validation test. The validation test can be failed due to being sold a pirated (non-genuine) copy of XP, or because you have changed your XP product key to a software-generated key, or sometimes it just happens for no reason at all. The failed validation installs three types of notifications on your computer: one on the log in screen, one log in timer, and one balloon. It also stops updates from Microsoft and disables your ability to install IE7 and Windows Media Player 11. This solution can get rid of all three notifications, even though you will still not be able to update through Windows Update. You will not be able to download things from Microsoft that requires a valid license either.

Delete Method
Step 1:If you have only just installed Windows Genuine Advantage notifications, simply using the system restore function will remove the program. Then refuse to accept the WGA update next time Windows updates. Otherwise, proceed as detailed below. (NOTE: If you try these steps while you are in "Safe Mode," step #8 is unnecessary).
Step 2:
First, try the following:
(1) Open a Command Prompt window by clicking on Start -> Run. Type CMD and press OK.
(2) Change Directory into the System32 Folder (type cd \windows\system32)
(3) Open a Notepad window and type the following lines:

taskkill -IM wgatray.exe
del wgatray.exe
del wgalogon.old

(4) Highlight and copy the three lines above to the Clipboard.
(5) Paste the contents of the Clipboard to Command Prompt.
Step 3:
This should kill the wgatray.exe process from the Taskbar and immediately delete both files wgatray.exe and wgalogon.dll without the need to to go through all steps bellow.

Note: If that does not work, follow the steps below (100% Works Guaranteed by Writer HBK Mano)

Step 4: (1) Open System32 by either of the following methods:
Click "Start" -> "Run", then type "system32". Click "Okay".

Click "Start" -> "Run", then type "system32".

Find system32 manually by clicking "Start" > "My Computer" > "(C:)" (or whatever your drive letter is) > "WINDOWS" > "system32".
(2) In "system32", go to "Tools" > "Folder options", click on the tab, "View", and uncheck "Hide extensions for known file types" if it is not already.
(3) Check to make sure the window that comes up has a full screen of various files. The files are in alphabetical order, which makes it easier to locate the specific file.
Find "WgaLogon.dll" and rename it "WgaLogon.dll.bak".

(4) Create an empty copy of WgaLogon.dll:
Right click on a blank space in system32 and select "New" > "Text Document".

Right click on a blank space in system32 and select "New" > "Text Document".

Leave the text document empty and label it "WgaLogon.dll". Press Enter (on your keyboard).
You may get a warning from the above step that says, "If you change a file name extension, the file may become unusable. Are you sure you want to change it?". Click "Yes" on this warning.

You may get a warning from the above step that says, "If you change a file name extension, the file may become unusable.

(5) Be ready to complete the next two steps very quickly! Find "WgaTray.exe" in "system32" and delete it. You will then have 5 seconds to find "WgaTray.exe" in the Task Manager (the next step). NOTE: If you remove the files mentioned above while you are in "Safe Mode," step #8 is unnecessary.
Immediately open Task Manager. You can do this by pressing the Ctrl, Shift, and Esc keys simultaneously, pressing the Ctrl, Alt, and Delete keys simultaneously, or right clicking the Taskbar and selecting "Task Manager". Click on the process tab and click end process when "WgaTray.exe" is selected. Note: If you take longer, do not panic! All that will happen is that "WgaTray.exe" will keep reappearing in the processes list (i.e. you won't be able to delete it as required). To remove the notifications after this, return to system32. You will find two files:"WgaLogon.dll.bak" (the one you renamed) and an Application Extension (0KB) called "WgaLogon.dll". Delete the Application Extension, rename "WgaLogon.dll.bak" to "WgaLogon.dll" and repeat the steps from the fifth one onwards (at a greater speed!!).
Step 5:
Restart your computer once you have finished. All the notification messages should be gone.
Rename Method
Step 1: Open a CMD window by clicking on Start -> Run -> type CMD and click OK.
Step 2:
Open a Notepad window (Start -> Run type NOTEPAD click OK) and type or copy (select the lines, and then press Ctrl-C) the following lines and paste (Ctrl-V) into the Notepad window:
CD %systemroot%\system32
rename wgatray.exe wgatray.exe.bak
rename wgalogon.old wgalogon.old.bak
rename LegitCheckControl.dll LegitCheckControl.dll.bak
taskkill /F /T /IM wgatray.exe
del wgatray.exe.bak
del wgalogon.old.bak
del LegitCheckControl.old.bak.
Step 3:
Make sure there is a blank line at the end of the text document, right after the last line.
Step 4:
Select all the text (Ctrl-A) and copy to the clipboard (Ctrl-C)
Step 5:
Paste the clipboard into the CMD Window (right click -> Paste)
Step 6:
This should kill the wgatray.exe process and delete the files it uses.
Tips:
This process will only get rid of the notifications, and will not validate your copy of XP. It will remove the timer at the beginning of your XP log on, the white notice on the log on screen, and the annoying yellow star that appears in the bottom right corner of the screen.
This is easier to do if you have someone reading the steps to you while you do it.
You may need to Find Hidden Files and Folders in Windows to get to System32 manually.
If task manager processes are moving, click the title of the "image name" row to freeze them.
If you are having problems after this, disable the updates before rebooting.
There is a program called RemoveWGA which does all of this for you. Just run the program, click yes, and you're done. (See External Links, below.)
If you have problems changing files in the system32 directory, you will have to turn off System Restore. Go to "Start" -> "Control Panel" -> "System" -> "System Restore" and check the "Turn off system restore" check box.
You will not be able to use Automatic Updates anymore; instead, you have to manually update them. In External Links, there is a program that will allow you to update any system, regardless of if it is genuine or not.
You can also rename WgaTray.exe to WgaTray.exe.bak if you can't remove WgaTray.exe from your Taskbar. Press Ctrl+Shift+Escape to do so.
It will be useful to have Task Manager open first before deleting WgaTray.exe
Unlocker is a free program that can assist in removing WGA notifications.

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Kurt Angle Upset With Ranking In Top WWE 50 Superstars Of All Time

2011-09-03T13:12:00.000-07:00

Kurt Angle isn’t happy about being #34 on WWE’s Top 50 Superstars of All-Time DVD that was released at the end of 2010. He wrote on Twitter yesterday: “I was #34 of Wwe All time Greatest? Tell You what, take Me off the list. I’d rather not be on it, if I wasn’t top 5. Who Ranks Wrestlers?

“I have never been More Insulted By Wwe top 50. #34 to Me Is a kick to the balls! Take Me out of ratings, please. U think fans will buy that crap Shawn Michaels Deserves #1. He has Been Putting On Awesome Matches for Well Over 20-something Years. I Will Not Complain. It is What It Is!!!”

Mick Foley, who was ranked #33, responded: “I was pretty happy to be #33 on at WWE Greatest Stars of All Time. Guessing Kurt Angle wasn’t so pleased to be #34 – kind or a perfectionist. My younger kids are SO into trying to guess the top 10 stars of all-time. Really didn’t picture myself watching at WWE DVD’s a few years ago.”

Below is the full list of 50 top WWE Superstars, as per the DVD:

#50 – Killer Kowalski
#49 – Batista
#48 – “Ravishing” Rick Rude
#47 – Bob Backlund
#46 – Dory Funk Jr.
#45 – Jeff Hardy
#44 – Nick Bockwinkel
#43 – Kane
#42 – Sgt. Slaughter
#41 – Jack Brisco
#40 – Big Show
#39 – Jake “The Snake” Roberts
#38 – “Superstar” Billy Graham
#37 – Junkyard Dog
#36 – Gorilla Monsoon
#35 – “Nature Boy” Buddy Rogers
#34 – Kurt Angle
#33 – Mick Foley
#32 – “Superfly” Jimmy Snuka
#31 – The Iron Sheik
#30 – Pat Patterson
#29 – Randy Orton
#28 – “Classie” Freddie Blassie
#27 – The Fabulous Moolah
#26 – “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase
#25 – Chris Jericho
#24 – Bruno Sammartino
#23 – Hulk Hogan
#22 – Terry Funk
#21 – Lou Thesz
#20 – Jerry “The King” Lawler
#19 – Edge
#18 – N/A
#17 – Dusty Rhodes/Ric Flair (Tie)
#16 – John Cena
#15 – “Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig
#14 – “Macho Man” Randy Savage
#13 – Gorgeous George
#12 – Triple H
#11 – Eddie Guerrero
#10 – “Rowdy” Roddy Piper
#9 – Rey Mysterio
#8 – Andre The Giant
#7 – Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat
#6 – Harley Race
#5 – The Rock
#4 – Bret “The Hitman” Hart
#3 – Stone Cold Steve Austin
#2 – The Undertaker
#1 – Shawn Michaels

Inter unable to register Diego Forlan for Champions League group stage

2011-09-03T11:27:00.000-07:00

The Uruguayan striker will miss games against CSKA Moscow, Lille and Trabzonspor after featuring during Atletico Madrid's Europa League qualifying campaign.

Inter have been hit with the news that new signing, Diego Forlan cannot be registered for the club's Champions League group stage campaign.

The Serie A giants attempted to include the Uruguayan striker in their 25-man squad for Europe's elite competition, but discovered that Forlan is ineligible after playing for former club, Atletico Madrid in their Europa League third qualifying round tie against Stromsgodset.

Forlan will be eligible to be registered for the competition if the side qualify from the group stage to the round of 16 which is due to take place in February 2012.

With the 32-year-old due to be absent for the group stages of the Champions League, Gian Piero Gasperini will have to rely on a strikeforce of Giampaolo Pazzini, Diego Milito, Luc Castaignos and Mauro Zarate

Forlan officially joined the 2011 Coppa Italia winners on transfer deadline day for an undisclosed figure after spending four seasons at Atletico.

Diego Forlan: I will play wherever Gian Piero Gasperini wants me to play

2011-08-31T20:26:00.000-07:00

The transfer of the Uruguay international was officially confirmed earlier on Wednesday and he has insisted that he is willing to be versatile for his new coach.

Diego Forlan could not hide his happiness after completing his move from Atletico Madrid to Inter, and assured that he would play anywhere on the pitch for the chance to pull on the club's shirt.

The Uruguayan Copa America winner rescinded his link with Atletico at the weekend, and on Wednesday afternoon was in Milan to sign a two-year deal with the 2010 Champions League winners.

Speaking to Inter Channel shortly after completing his transfer, the 32-year-old striker looked forward to his new Italian challenge, and affirmed that he was not daunted by the possibility of playing out of position.

"I will play where the trainer [Gian Piero Gasperini] tells me. Will I sacrifice myself like Eto'o did? Of course. In the national team I am not the main forward because [Luis] Suarez and [Edinson] Cavani are there, and I play as a defensive midfielder," Forlan pointed out in the interview.

"I will repeat again that I will play where the coach wants me to."

The former Villarreal and Manchester United man went on to admit that his Italian is rather rusty: "I studied it when I was little but I remember almost nothing. I hope to get it back soon.

"I am delighted to be here. Milan is beautiful, and the Interista fans are even more so."

Manchester United 8-2 Arsenal English Premier League 28/08/2011

2011-08-30T11:51:00.000-07:00

1-0 Wellbeck 22'

2-0 Ashley Young 28'

3-0 Wayne Rooney 41'

3-1 Walcott 47'

4-1 Wayne Rooney 64'

5-1 Nani 67'

6-1 Park 70'

6-2 van Persie 74'

7-2 Wayne Rooney 81' (PEN)

8-2 Ashley Young 90'

'I want to play well and win' - Diego Forlan upon landing in Milan

2011-08-30T02:58:00.000-07:00

Forlan will fill the shoes of Samuel Eto'o, who left for Anzhi Makhachkala earlier in the month, and upon arriving in Milan, he praised his new club.

"I am happy to be here, Inter are a very important club, with great players," Forlan told Sky Sport 24.

"I am very thankful to [Inter] president [Massimo] Moratti. I have already spoken with [Esteban] Cambiasso, [Diego] Milito and [Javier] Zanetti and they have told me they are happy with my coming.

"I want to play well and win, I promise all the Inter fans I will do my best to help the club reach their goals."

Inter, who will kick off their Serie A campaign with Palermo on September 11, will tackle CSKA Moscow, Lille and Trabzonspor in the Champions League.

Diego Forlan: Good-Bye Atletico Madrid, Welcome to Inter Milan.

2011-08-29T12:34:00.000-07:00

Uruguay international has waved goodbye to the Madrid-based outfit as he prepares for Serie A move, and praised Inter president Massimo Moratti for making the move possible.

Diego Forlan has confirmed he will be joining Italian giants Inter as his time with Atletico Madrid comes to an end.
The 32-year-old Uruguay striker held a press conference in Madrid to state he would no longer be playing at the Vincente Calderon, as a switch to San Siro awaits him.

Forlan will now travel to Milan where he will undergo a medical before signing a contract with the Serie A outfit.

"I am going to a great club and there is a big challenge ahead of me. I want to thank Massimo Moratti for this chance," he told the press as he announced his departure from Spain.

"I have already spoken with Esteban Cambiasso and Diego Milito, they are my friends. I know Serie A having watched many games on television and I am very happy to be playing in Italy after my time in the Premier League, and Liga.

"I am going to play for a great team. I liked the project as well as their will to have me. I have a great will to start and changing [teams] will give me new motivation. It's not always that you get the chance to play for a great club at 32, and so for this reason I want to thank Inter and president Moratti."

Forlan played for Atletico since 2007 when he joined them from Villarreal and he will always carry the Spanish side in his heart following their separation.

"I will always support Atletico Madrid and it was an honour to play here," he added.

"I enjoyed four great years, fantastic years and I want to wish the team all the best."

Neither club have confirmed the details of the transfer, but an official announcement is expected to follow later once Forlan arrives in Italy to finalise his move.

Diego Forlan On Twitter
Diego Forlan On Facebook

Diego Forlan In Inter Milan Official Player List .

Forlan set for Inter move

2011-08-28T06:18:00.000-07:00

Atletico Madrid coach Gregorio Manzano expects striker Diego Forlan to complete his move to Inter Milan in the "next few hours".

Forlan, who joined Atletico from Villarreal in 2007 following a mixed spell at Manchester United, has been earmarked by Inter as the replacement for Samuel Eto'o, who this week joined Russian Premier Liga side Anzhi Makhachkala.

Manzano said: "He did not travel to Portugal in midweek [for the Europa League tie against Vitoria] and we know why. He is in negotiations with Inter - that is public news and everyone knows how it is going.

"It is expected that it will be resolved in the next few hours and he will stop being an Atletico player and one owned by Inter."

Atletico also lost striker Sergio Aguero this summer, the Argentina international joining Manchester City, but have snapped up Radamel Falcao from Porto to bolster their attacking ranks.

Cannavaro: Cristiano Ronaldo is hotter (Cannavaro's visit to Singapore)

2011-08-27T08:28:00.000-07:00

AsiaOne caught up with Italian football legend Fabio Cannavaro while he was in Singapore this past week.

While regarded as one of the best defenders of his generation, Cannavaro's stunning good looks are not to be ignored.

The blue-eyed heart throb had many female fans lining up to snap photos with him at a private party at Raoul's Paragon store on Friday night.

Speaking exclusively to AsiaOne, Cannavaro broke into a wide grin as he was asked who he thought was sexier, Cristiano Ronaldo or himself.

Sharply dressed in a black suit, the Naples native said in Italian, "Oh, Cristiano Ronaldo, now I'm a retired player so..."

This answer was the second example of Cannavaro's modesty when it comes to his sexy physique.

When asked about being voted sexiest player of the 2006 World Cup earlier that day, Cannavaro told AsiaOne that he had always tried hard to be recognised for his skills on the pitch but is also grateful for his good looks.

"My parents gave me the blessing of having good looks and that's just something extra that I am grateful for."

So does the chiselled Italian have a training routine to keep his body in such great shape?

Definitely not right now he says.

Cannavaro, who turns 38 in September said, "I'm on holiday so I just want to enjoy myself. And I just keep myself physically active."

The 2006 winner of the Fifa World Player of the Year also credited his facial care routine to products of a shaving brand he used to publicize for for many years.

Cannavaro broke female hearts everywhere when he married his sweetheart in 1994. He had met Daniela Cannavaro when he was 18.

They now have three children together, two sons aged 12 and seven, and a daughter aged 10.

The happily married man revealed that the secret to a successful marriage in a footballer's lifestyle is not just love but patience too.

"At the base of every good marriage there is love, but it needs a lot of patience and attention to have a good marriage".

Full Story & Cannavaro's visit to Singapore's Photo CLICK HERE

2011/12 UEFA Champions League group stage draw

2011-08-25T13:20:00.000-07:00

Group A appears to be the group of death. It puts Bayern Munich, Villarreal, Manchester City and Napoli in a single section. It will be tough for debutants Man City and Napoli to beat the likes of the experienced Germans and Spain’s Yellow Submarines.

The situation is a bit different in Group B where Internazionale will be keen to impose their authority above the rest. Could French champions LOSC Lille reach the knock-out phase too?

In Group C, Manchester United have been united with Benfica just like during the 2006/07 season whereas Real Madrid will have yet another trip to the Stade de Gerland at some point this season. There will also be a Spanish adventure for Andre Villas-Boas’ Chelsea and an Italian affair for Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona.

Meanwhile, Porto have been offered a rather kind return to the UEFA Champions League with APOEL, Shakhtar and Zenit making Group G look more like a UEFA Europa League table. The 8 UEFA Champions League groups go as follows:

Group A: Bayern Munich, Villarreal, Manchester City, Napoli

Group B: Inter Milan, CSKA Moscow, Lille, Trabzonspor

Group C: Manchester United, Benfica, Basle, Otelul

Group D: Real Madrid, Lyon, Ajax, Dinamo Zagreb

Group E: Chelsea, Valencia, Bayer Leverkusen, Genk

Group F: Arsenal, Marseille, Olympiacos, Borussia Dortmund

Group G: Porto, Shakhtar Donetsk, Zenit St Petersburg, APOEL

Group H: Barcelona, AC Milan, BATE Borisov, Plzen

¿Quién es mejor? Cristiano, Messi y Xavi son ternados

2011-08-13T06:27:00.000-07:00

For Vote CLICK HERE
Ginebra (EFE) - Xavi Hernández y Lionel Messi, del Barcelona, y Cristiano Ronaldo, del Real Madrid, son los tres candidatos al premio al mejor jugador de Europa de la temporada 2010-2011, anunció la UEFA, que dará a conocer el nombre del ganador el 25 de agosto.

El máximo organismo del fútbol europeo destacó en un comunicado que con este galardón quiere reconocer "al mejor jugador, independientemente de su nacionalidad, que haya militado en un club en el territorio de una asociación que forme parte de la UEFA durante la temporada 2010-2011".
For Vote CLICK HERE
La elección del ganador coincidirá con el sorteo de los grupos de Liga de Campeones el 25 de agosto en Mónaco, donde el jurado, formado por 53 periodistas deportivos europeos, decidirá el ganador por medio de un sistema de voto electrónico.
For Vote CLICK HERE

Italy 2-1 Spain (Friendly Match) 10-08-2011

2011-08-10T14:00:00.000-07:00

Italy 1-0 Spain (Friendly)

Italy 1-1 Spain (Friendly)

Italy 2-1 Spain (Friendly)

WWE Survivor Series (2002)

2011-08-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

Diego Forlan - Blues better for Aguero

2011-07-31T14:20:00.000-07:00

Diego Forlan believes former Atletico Madrid team-mate Sergio Aguero should have joined Chelsea rather than Manchester City.

Argentina ace Aguero left the Vicente Calderon for City earlier this week in a £38million deal after being linked with a string of Europe's leading clubs.
Forlan wishes the 23-year-old well but believes he would have been better off holding out for a move to Andre Villas Boas' Blues instead.
"It was no real surprise to see him leave, but I thought it would have been to a different club," the former Manchester United forward told The People.

"Chelsea's game and squad are more suited to his style.

"And of course I am a Manchester United fan, so his decision to move to City is also painful for me."

Forlan also offers a note of caution for Aguero, having struggled to make an impact himself at United before hitting form in Spain with Villarreal and then Atletico.

The Uruguay ace added: "I know City are now one of the big clubs in England, so I wish Sergio luck.

"But I know from my own time in England that the Premier League is not like La Liga.

"The key for him will be how he adapts to the style of the game and also the country.

"He can be a success because he is a star... he can be a king at any club.

"The best asset of Aguero is the number of goals he scores, and when he scores them. He is a killer and could also destroy many defenders with his dribbles.

"Personally, it is bad news to me because I will now miss a big companion in attack at Atletico.

"He is not the tallest, but that is not a problem, and neither is the hardness of the English defenders.

"I do not know if (Carlos) Tevez will stay at City, but a Tevez-Aguero pairing could be sensational for City. For La Liga, this is all bad news, but for the Premier League, it's a success to have such a player."

WWE News: Did Shawn Michaels Save CM Punk's Job With WWE ?

2011-07-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

CM Punk is the hottest property in wrestling today. He became an instant sensation after taking Vince McMahon and WWE to task with his epic promo four weeks ago, and everything worked perfectly at Money In the Bank when he won the WWE championship.

In fact, things are going so well for Punk and WWE right now, though based on the angle on Raw this past Monday that could change in a heartbeat, it's easy to forget just how far Punk has come in the six years that he has been working for WWE.

Punk used to get buried on television and at house shows because he wasn't a "WWE creation." He made his name working for Ring of Honor, and WWE doesn't like people that get any kind of following unless it's on their shows.

Back when Punk first started, there were a lot of people backstage and on the creative team that had it out for him, but there were two people instrumental in getting Punk a real shot with WWE. Paul Heyman, who Punk has mentioned on more than one occasion, and Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels.

According to former WWE writer David Lagana, there were agents who were pushing hard for Punk to be fired. Michaels was in a meeting with the agents and said, "Um, if you don’t like something the kid is doing, why don’t you work with him to fix it, instead of killing him.”

All that I have to say is thank God there are practical people like Shawn Michaels, who understands the value of someone like Punk and has the power backstage that people will listen to.

As we all saw with Money In the Bank, Punk is capable of great things in WWE. He just needs to be given the opportunity to be great.

Follow Shawn On Twitter
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Details On Shawn Michaels' Acting Career

2011-07-26T03:50:00.000-07:00

Following the successful premiere of Shawn Michaels' MacMillan River Adventures, the Heartbreak Kid looks to have a promising career in Hollywood - with another reality show in the works.

According celebrity blog PopWrecked.com, Michaels and his management team are meeting with several major cable networks about bringing Shawn aboard in another new reality series - which could begin shooting as early as this fall.

Popwrecked.com blogger Doug West was quoted last week as saying:

"Shawn has a lot of fans in Hollywood. and Shawn appears to be weighing several different options in the reality show business right now."

Stay tuned for more updates on HBK's acting career.

Follow Shawn On Twitter
Like Shawn On Facebook
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Diego Forlan post final interview blooper - team mate naked

2011-07-26T03:35:00.000-07:00

Uruguay defender Martin Caceres standing butt-naked behind Forlan holding the Copa America Trophy.

Gatorade - Comercial con Forlán 2011 - HD 720p

2011-07-25T05:35:00.000-07:00

Luis Suárez and Diego Forlán shoot Uruguay to record 15th Copa América

2011-07-24T18:33:00.000-07:00

Diego Forlán scored twice and Luis Suárez once as Uruguay beat Paraguay to be crowned South America champions for a record 15th time. Paraguay ran out of luck at the Copa América where they went five straight matches without a victory before reaching the final.

Suárez gave Uruguay the lead early in a match they dominated. Receiving a pass in the penalty area, the Liverpool forward scored with a deflected left-footed shot that went in off the far post behind the Paraguay goalkeeper Justo Villar.

Forlán, who was voted the best player at last year's World Cup, made it 2-0 by lashing home a left-footed shot from 12 yards. He was set up after team-mate Egidio Arévalo Rios had stolen the ball from a Paraguay player in midfield. The Atlético Madrid striker had not scored in his 12 previous matches for the national team.

Sebastián Eguren almost scored in the 74th minute but was foiled when Villar stuck out his left arm with the ball heading for the net.

Forlán notched the final goal in the last minute, taking a pass from Suárez and firing into the far corner. "We played as a group," said Suárez, who was named player of the tournament. "I think when groups are united like this, everyone together and going for the same thing, you can get things done.

"The important thing was getting started well," said the scorer of four goals in the tournament, one fewer than Peru's Paolo Guerrero. "With two goals in the first half, I think it was very difficult for them to come back."

Forlán, who won a record 82nd cap for Uruguay, equalled the national record of 31 goals held by Hector Scarone.

Paraguay, who seldom threatened, played without their injured forward Roque Santa Cruz and winger Aureliano Torres. The Paraguay coach Gerardo Martino and his assistant Jorge Pautasso were suspended from the match after being sent off for repeatedly arguing with the referee in last Wednesday's victory over Venezuela – Paraguay advanced from the quarter-finals and semi-finals on penalties.

The victory gave Uruguay their first Copa América title since 1995. The small country of 3.5 million also reached the World Cup semi-finals a year ago, surpassing the performance of Brazil and Argentina.

Uruguay's squad featured 20 of the 23 players they took to the World Cup. They showed teamwork and unselfish play despite possessing none of the star power of their bigger rivals.

The two continental giants were upset in the quarter-finals when Uruguay ousted Argentina on penalties and Paraguay eliminated Brazil, who had won four of the past five titles. Martino, an Argentinian, is regarded as a leading contender to take over the Argentina team.

Happy Birthday Shawn Michaels - 22 July 2011

2011-07-15T07:15:00.000-07:00

Diego Forlán tras romper con Zaira Nara: "Lo que hizo es una bajeza"

2011-06-20T05:38:00.000-07:00

El delantero uruguayo se sintió ofendido por la exposición mediática a la que se ha visto envuelto tras cancelar su boda.

“Menos mal que no me casé”. Esa es la frase que publicó Zaira Nara en el Twitter para dar cuenta de que su relación con Diego Forlán había llegado a su fin. El futbolista no ha dado mayores detalles sobre el rompimiento de su noviazgo, solo un escueto “ya no estaba enamorado de ella” a la revista Gente.

Hoy la revista Caras adelantó una entrevista con Diego Forlán, quien aseguró que su noviazgo se rompió la semana pasada en Buenos Aires tras el bautizo del hijo de Wanda Nara y el Maxi López.

“Después del bautizo del hijo de Wanda, en Buenos Aires, le planteé a Zaira si era el momento adecuado para casarnos o no. Ella se despechó, y lo que hizo ahora es una bajeza (publicar en el Twitter que ya no están). Me di cuenta que no era lo que yo quería. ¿Cómo estoy? Feliz…”, indicó.

Sin embargo los representantes de la modelo aseguran que la relación se rompió en Miami, lugar donde ambos disfrutaban de sus vacaciones. Ahí Zaira Nara se desilusionó con un episodio aún no esclarecido por la argentina y que se ha prestado para especulaciones, como aquellas que señalan que el jugador sería homosexual o que le pidió firmar un contrato prenupcial.

Diego Forlan & Zaira Nara's Break up

2011-06-20T04:01:00.000-07:00

The couple between model Zaira Nara and player Diego Forlan ended abruptly in the last days, to everyone’s surprise, when some months ago they had formally announced their marriage.

The model herself was responsible for communicating via her Twitter account, “Now what I can say is thank goodness I did not marry!”.

According to the Uruguayan press, Forlan had talked Nara of his doubts about the marriage and since then the couple have decided to end their relationship. They were together for two years.

Zaira Nara discovers that “Diego Forlan was cheating on her with a man?”
Atletico Madrid striker Diego Forlan talked about the reasons for his split with Zaira Nara. The Uruguayan said “I left because I did not love her anymore. “

The newspaper Libre published by an unidentified source, but “absolutely irrefutable and very close to the couple”, that the Atletico player “could have cheated on his fiancée with another man. “

At first it was assumed that ‘it was he who, taking advantage of his vacation in Miami, told the model he was not sure he wanted to pass by the altar. “

According Nuevodiarioweb.com. “The family of the model ensures that it was their daughter who left the player and not vice versa, and that the real reason for the split was an affaire of the Uruguayan.”

'I am happy at Atletico Madrid' - Diego Forlan rules out summer transfer

2011-06-14T08:21:00.000-07:00

The Uruguay international has looked to put an end to speculation surrounding his future by revealing that he intends to honour his contract with the La Liga club

Atletico Madrid striker Diego Forlan has declared he has no intention of leaving the club in the wake of reports linking him with a summer move elsewhere.

Tottenham, Juventus and Besiktas have all been credited with an interest in the 32-year-old, who this season was unable to build on the form he showed for Uruguay during the 2010 World Cup.

However, the former Manchester United forward has insisted he has no plans to leave the club before 2013, when his current deal expires.

"Atletico's new project seduces me a lot," Forlan said in an interview on his official website. "Last season was very hard personally.

"Many lies were said and I did not have the chance to show my football on the field.

"This is a good year to put Atletico back along the best, like we have done before.

"I have two more years on my contract and I plan to see it out, because I am very happy here."

Questioned about Uruguay's chances at the upcoming Copa America, Forlan stressed he does not think his side are favourites.
He added: "We have a good team, but that is not a guarantee. The level of all the teams is very high and it will be hard, but we will go in with a lot of hope."

Heartbreak Kid lands bear near Bathurst

2011-06-13T04:09:00.000-07:00

Stationed close to the river, in the middle of the woods, near Bathurst is probably not the first place Shawn Michaels fans would look for the retired World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) superstar, but that was where he was found last week.

Retired World Wrestling Entertainment legend Shawn Michaels, right, sat down to a meal at Papa Joe and Evy's restaurant in Bathurst during a recent trip to the area. Shown from left are: Josh Ishmael, videographer; Zach Mark, Keith Mark, hunter and co-host of 'Shawn Michael's MacMillan River Adventures'; Tony Glidewell, videographer; Mike Roy, owner of Bear Par Outfitters; and Michaels.

Michaels wasn't hiding from the Undertaker's tombstone piledriver, as those days ended in a retirement match between the two at Wrestlemania 26 in 2010. He was in the region to hunt bears under the wing of local hunting guide Mike Roy of Bear Paw Outfitters and alongside fellow hunter and friend Keith Mark.

"One of the things I love doing is getting out and hunting. My family and I live almost exclusively on wild game. It serves two things, it feeds the family and it lets me get out of everybody's hair at the house and get out and do something I enjoy with my buddies," said Michaels in an interview with The Northern Light.

Better known by his stage name the Heartbreak Kid but he was born Michael Shawn Hickenbottom. He is a Texas resident who is now doing work in television.

Michaels and his comrade shot more than bears during their stay, as they also filmed for their upcoming show called 'Shawn Michaels' MacMillan River Adventures' which premieres June 28 on the Outdoor Channel.

"I'm not doing a reality show, it's not really even a hunting show, it's more of an outdoor lifestyle show. We're just two guys who have families who live an outdoor lifestyle so some of that will be captured on film," said Michaels.

Michaels began hunting after what was thought to be a career-ending back injury in 1998 when the Undertaker gave Michaels a back body drop outside of the ring. The crushing blow left Michaels with two herniated discs and one was crushed completely.

A friend introduced him to hunting during his time away from the wrestling mat and Michaels continued hunting even after returning to wrestling in 2002.

Michaels has hunted all over North America including white tail deer in Texas, moose in the Yukon, antelope in Mexico and elk in Colorado. Some of his excursions will be featured on 'Shawn Michaels' MacMillan River Adventures'. He added that footage of the hunting trip near Bathurst is expected to air on the show as well.

The Northern Light interviewed Michaels on the second day of his week-long trip to the area and he hadn't caught a bear yet. However, a few days later Roy contacted the paper to say that Michaels had indeed caught a bear by shooting it with a bow and arrow.

Michaels noted that his first day of hunting bear near Bathurst was a little colder than what he is used to.

"Obviously bears are like me, they don't like the cold weather and so I'm looking forward to it looking up also. I'm a Texas guy, so this is winter for me," said Michaels.

Michaels was able to participate in another famous Maritime experience during his stay when he hit the water for his first time lobster trapping.

"You see all these guys and they're busting their humps from 4 a.m. in the morning to 2 o'clock and I enjoyed being out there with them and watching how they make their living. You admire guys who are working seven days a week working those hours to feed their families and take care of themselves and obviously it's a vital part of this community," he said.

Michaels' previous encounters with Eastern Canada were spent wrestling with the WWE, formerly known as the World Wrestling Federation. Michaels wrestled in Moncton and St. John's, NL. His Bathurst stop marked one of his first trips to a smaller area on Canada's East Coast.

"I've been all over Canada, all over the world, but I haven't seen a lot of the rural areas. I love being out in the sticks. Obviously, with the peace and quiet, plus getting out on the field," he said.

Michaels said there were even a couple of fans waiting for him at the Bathurst Regional Airport.

"It was great coming off the plane. There was a couple of ladies there who obviously watch wrestling and they were spectacular and I enjoy again, getting to travel to some of the small places that I've never been before and be familiar how the long arm of the WWE stretches there. It's pretty cool. It's always nice," he said.

The wrestling career of the recently inducted WWE Hall of Famer is a long-tale of championship titles, signature moves and show stopping performances. In total, he spent 22 years with the WWE.

Amongst the vast array of his fond memories was his first world championship in Wrestlemania 12 in a legendary match against Bret (The Hitman) Hart. Another was wrestling with and against D-Generation-X tag team partner and friend Triple H.

Three of Michael's main highlights are arguably three of the best matches of all time in Wrestlemania history.

Stage names such as 'Mr. Wrestlemania', 'The Showstopper', and 'The Main Event' were given to Michaels over the years and he lived up to the meaning behind those names through to his very last match.

At Wrestlemania 24 in 2008, Michaels wrestled the legendary Ric Flair to his retirement. A year later at Wrestlemania 25 Michaels faced the Undertaker in an unsuccessful attempt to end his diabolical streak of never losing a match at a Wrestlemania. It is one of the most talked about matches in the history of the event.

Lastly, Michaels faced the Undertaker a final time one year later at Wrestlemania 26 with his career on the line. Once again he was defeated and ended his long stint in the WWE.

"I've accomplished far more than I ever possibly could have imagined. It was a phenomenal run and I enjoyed every second of it. As I say, I enjoy going back and visiting everybody. I'll always be a part of that company and I'm thankful that those are just a few of many, many memories that I have because I've got a bunch," he said.

Michaels' main event now is spending time with his wife Rebecca, son Cameron and daughter Cheyenne.

He said he misses the camaraderie of hanging out and travelling the world with his wrestling friends, but likes knowing he's just as comfortable in the public as he was in the public eye.

"When you do that for as long as you do it, you're not sure you can be normal and have normal friends and have other friends outside of it. So I've enjoyed seeing that that's possible. Knowing that I can meet people that weren't in my line of work and have the same amount of trust and friendship with them that I have with the other guys," concluded Michaels.

Diego Forlan reveals he has advised David de Gea to join Manchester United – La Liga news

2011-05-28T08:01:00.000-07:00

Diego Forlan reveals he has advised David de Gea to join Manchester United – La Liga news

Atletico Madrid striker, Diego Forlan, has revealed that he has advised teammate David de Gea to join English giants, Manchester United. He stated that the young goalkeeper has a bright future and he would surely be in the right hands if he moves to England.

David de Gea has been heavily linked with a move to English Premier League champions, Manchester United, in this summer’s transfer window. Edwin Van der Sar is set to retire after playing his last match for the Red Devils, the UEFA Champions League final against Barcelona on Saturday.

Sir Alex Ferguson had admitted earlier this week that the player is close to put pen on paper and that the deal will be completed in the following week.

Forlan said that de Gea had asked him about the transfer to United and that he wanted advice regarding the situation. The Uruguayan, who played for Manchester United himself, claimed that it is the best place for the youngster to be and that he should go for it.

“David is a very good keeper with a bright future. He asked my advice about moving to United and we talked about it a lot,” the striker was quoted as saying in an interview.

The World Cup Golden Ball winner insisted that Sir Alex Ferguson is a legend and it is the best possible experience the 20-year old can get. He admitted that he did not have the best of times at Old Trafford but still the crowd was very supportive and behind him.

“It is a great place to experience as a player. The manager is a legend, the staff is all really good and the fans were always very supportive of me, even when I wasn't scoring,” he concluded.

David de Gea has made a total of 46 appearances for Los Rojiblancos and kept 24 clean sheets in the process. The goalkeeper could turn out to be a brilliant signing for the Red Devils as he has sufficient first-team experience at the highest level and is still young.

Top pay for Messi and Mourinho

2011-05-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

Lionel Messi and Jose Mourinho are the highest paid player and manager in football, according to France Football magazine.

Messi's income from his salary and publicity deals in 2011 amounted to €31 million, while Real Madrid manager Mourinho topped the manager's rich list with an income of €13.5 million.

Messi's income makes him the top paid footballer in the world, but he still falls a long way short of Tiger Woods, who with a revenue of €53 million is the highest paid sportsman of them all. The FIFA Ballon d'Or winner's nearest rival in the footballer's income stakes is Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo with €27.5 million, while Manchester United's Wayne Rooney is in third with €20.7 million.

The English Premier League appears the most lucrative league with seven representatives in the top 20 list of highest paid players. Two former Premier League players, David Beckham and Thierry Henry, now playing in the MLS in the United States, are ranked fifth and 11th with salaries of €19 million and €13.6 million respectively.

Among the manager's ranks, Mourinho tops the list ahead of Barcelona's Pep Guardiola with €10.5 million and former Inter Milan coach Raphael Benitez (€10.2 million). England manager Fabio Capello comes in fourth with the Italian receiving a salary of €8.5 million in France Football's survey.

Ti amo Monica Bellucci

2011-05-10T10:45:00.001-07:00

Beşiktaş to sign Uruguayan star Forlan

2011-05-08T12:22:00.000-07:00

Atletico Madrid’s Uruguayan star Diego Forlan has agreed to sign a deal with Spor Toto Super League side Beşiktaş, Turkish media reported on Sunday.

Fenerbahçe, another Turkish football giant, had been trying to transfer Forlan for two years when Beşiktaş became the new team of the 31-year-old. The İstanbul team has been showing off this season with star transfers, including Real Madrid’s Guti Hernandez, Ricardo Quaresma and Simao Sabrosa. The club’s president, Yıldırım Demirören, earlier said they were making next season’s team, as Beşiktaş fell behind their goals this season, having been eliminated from the Europa League early and now sitting at sixth place in the domestic league.

The team seeks to win the coveted Turkish Cup, which they have already been qualified to play in the finals for, to take part in European competitions next season.

Real Madrid fans 'threaten' ITV's Andy Townsend in Wolfgang Stark error

2011-04-30T19:36:00.000-07:00

ITV pundit Andy Townsend has revealed he was threatened by angry Real Madrid fans who mistook him for Champions League referee Wolfgang Stark.

The former footballer told the Daily Mail that he was eating in a Madrid restaurant following Barcelona's 2-0 away victory against Real in the first leg semi-final fixture of the European tournament, when furious fans launched a verbal tirade against him.

Townsend, who was enjoying a meal with ITV presenter Adrian Chiles and other network bosses, said he feared he would be attacked when Real supporters identified him as Stark.

'Because I still had my UEFA accreditation around my neck they thought I was the referee. To them I was Wolfgang Stark! So I had to turn around and tell them I was from English television,' Townsend explained.

'Adrian's started calling me Wolfie. But actually there's a sinister edge to it. The crowd were baying for the referee's blood.'

The ill-tempered game on Wednesday (April 27th) has sparked controversy, with both sides charged by Uefa over incidents related to the fixture, including an outburst from Real manager Jose Mourinho in his post-match press conference.

Townsend said he blames Mourinho's vitriol for stirring up the fans, resulting in a charged atmosphere in the stadium and city.

'I wouldn't want to see him back in England,' he added.

Harry Redknapp admits Diego Forlan is out of Tottenham's reach as he looks for a new striker

2011-04-30T19:33:00.000-07:00

Price an issue as Spurs boss scours the market for a top marksmen after admitting his current crop of frontmen have not scored enough goals this season.

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has said that although Spurs have been linked with a move for Atletico Madrid forward Diego Forlan, they have no chance of signing the Uruguayan this summer.

Redknapp is seeking a proven goalscorer after admitting his current strikers have not scored as many as they should have done, but former Manchester United star Forlan is, it seems, out of his reach.

"We can't afford him. He's on about £120k a week or something," Redknapp said in an article in The Telegraph.

"If you work it out on a two or three-year contract, you're talking about £28 million and there's no return on your money."

Tottenham have enjoyed a fine season to date, reaching the Champions League quarter-finals and remaining in contention to qualify for next year's competition.

But midfielders Rafael van der Vaart and Gareth Bale are Spurs' top scorers in the Premier League this term, with 12 and seven goals, respectively, and Redknapp wants more from his strikers.

"It's been one of those years," he said. "Normally [Jermain] Defoe would have had 18 goals by now. He hasn't got them this year, Crouchy [Peter Crouch] hasn't scored many, he's scored his goals in Europe. We're still in it without the frontmen having scored the goals they should have done."

"I'd like to get another front man if I can. They're difficult to find though.
"We went for [Villarreal's Giuseppe] Rossi last year and he was suddenly £35 million. We could have had him before for £18 million. But we didn’t do it.

"We're looking for strikers, not £35 million ones, they're hard to find because everyone's looking for them. That’s why [Fernando] Torres was £50 million. The good ones cost fortunes, don’t they?”

"It would be up to the chairman [in terms of the cost]. But we've been chasing all around the world, looking for people. They all cost big money."

Cristiano Ronaldo is better than Lionel Messi - Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson

2011-04-27T06:55:00.000-07:00

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has rated Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo over Barcelona attacker Lionel Messi as the best footballer in the world.

The two teams are set to clash for the third time in the space of a fortnight, this time with a place in the Champions League final being on the line.

And with the first leg to be played at the Bernabeu on Wednesday, the Scot has added his thoughts by pointing towards his former player as the best in the business.

"Well, I had Ronaldo here as a player and I think he is the best player in the world," Ferguson told the club's official website.

"He can play with both feet, he has fantastic skill, strength and bravery, and he’s a greater header of the ball. But Messi is an absolutely fantastic player also.

"It’s difficult to choose between the two, it’s the toss of a coin.

"It depends on how you view your player. The fact that I had Ronaldo here so long, I know him well. I saw how he dedicated himself in training sessions to becoming the best player in the world and so that would weigh heavily on my view of him as a player and as a person.

"But you look at the boy Messi and you know that he’s a serious player. He loves playing football. He’s as brave as a lion because he will always take the ball in any situation. They are different types of players but there’s no doubt both provide a fantastic end product."

Diego Forlan could play for any club in the world - Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo

2011-04-26T19:38:00.000-07:00

Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has stated that Diego Forlan is good enough to play for any club in the world.

The supremo's comments follow the player's outburst earlier this month when he said he would consider a move in the summer after he fell out of favour with Atleti coach Quique Sanchez Flores.

"Forlan is a great player and could play for any team in the world," Cerezo beamed to Marca.

Cerezo was then asked once again to comment on the future of Sergio Aguero and David de Gea.

Falling short of confirming the pair's commitment to the Madrid club, Cerezo conceded: "there will be few casualties at the end of the season."

Atletico are six in the Liga table, eight points behind Villarreal in the race for the final Champions League spot.

More than 1,700 police will be present at Real Madrid's latest meeting with Barcelona

2011-04-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

More than 1,700 police, security and medics will be present at the Bernabeu on Wednesday evening for the first-leg Champions League semi-final encounter between Real Madrid and Barcelona.

The two Spanish giants have already met on three occasions this season, twice in the last fortnight, and with both clubs reaching the business end of the campaign, officials believe the match could be at risk of crowd trouble.

The Madrid government met up with officials from the local police, representatives from the health service, UEFA delegates and the person in charge of safety at the Bernabeu on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the matter.

"All access through doors at the Bernabeu will be strictly monitored to prevent people bringing in any objects, whatever size that goes against the Healthy and Safety Act for sports stadiums," Madrid politician Maria Dolores Carrion told reporters.

Plaza de Cibeles will also be strictly monitored throughout the evening with everyone involved with providing a safe environment for supporters hoping for an uneventful evening off the pitch.

Madrid supporters earned praise from Carrion who applauded their "good civic behaviour" at Cibeles after the club's Copa del Rey success last Wednesday.

Hours before the game, a large contingent of police will be making sure that Barcelona supporters arrive in the city safely and will also monitor the likely meeting places of both sets of fans.

Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho: Barcelona are not the greatest team in history

2011-04-26T19:13:00.000-07:00

Jose Mourinho has said that Barcelona are not the best team in the world, but he is expecting a hard slog when his Real Madrid side welcome them to the Bernabeu for Wednesday's Champions League semi-final clash.

The Portuguese coach, who won the trophy with Inter last year, eliminating Barcelona in the semi-finals, said there are no favourites, but he is optimistic.

He also refuted claims that last week's Copa del Rey final win would influence the game tomorrow.

"Every game is a different story. It's the same as if we had not won the final. Cup competitions are always different.

"However we are calm. It's a Champions League semi-final, and we will not be influenced by what has happened before."

'The Special One' was then asked if the current Barcelona team was the best of all time and he replied: "I don't know if they are the best, they are a great team, but I don't know if they are the best."

Asked who were the favourites heading into the game, Mourinho responded bluntly: "There are no favourites. No result after the game will make us feel secure for the return leg. We are not obsessed, but we want to go all the way.

"There are no favourites, just like in the Schalke - Manchester United game."

The coach then took a swipe at Pep Guardiola over possible scenarios involving referee Wolfgang Stark during the game.

Just a few days ago Guardiola said Mourinho would have been happy had a Portuguese referee been appointed.

"I don't want mistakes to go in our favour, but hope both teams are happy after the game," he added.

"However, it's not possible for Pep to be happy. The referee must be wrong. Guardiola's comments see us move into a new era where only a small group of coaches don't criticise referees.

"This is the first time I see a coach criticising the referee even before a game. When I complain about referees I do it honestly, and if he makes the right calls I will say that without problems.

"We have to play to the maximum. It's not about the referee," he concluded.

Emmanuel Adebayor, Angel Di Maria and Raul Albiol back in Real Madrid squad to face Barcelona

2011-04-26T19:11:00.000-07:00

Jose Mourinho has picked 19 players for Real Madrid's Champions League semi-final, first-leg clash against Barcelona on Wednesday, and, as expected, the notable absentee is Sami Khedira.

The German midfielder is out with a thigh tear, but Lassana Diarra is back to offer cover. Pedro Leon and Sergio Canales have been left out for technical reasons while Ricardo Carvalho is suspended.

However, Angel Di Maria, Emmanuel Adebayor and Alvaro Arbeloa are all back in the squad. Kaka is also in after flying back from Brazil following the birth of his daughter.

Here is the official confirmed list of players:

Goalkeepers: Casillas, Adan, Dudek

Defenders: Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Arbeloa, Albiol, Garay

Midfielders: Diarra, Granero, Xabi Alonso, Kaka, Di Maria, Ozil

Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema, Higuain, Adebayor

Kick off at the Bernabeu is at 20:45 CET.

Jose Mourinho has revived Real Madrid's winning spirit - Francisco Pavon

2011-04-26T19:10:00.000-07:00

Former Real Madrid defender Francisco Pavon has praised Jose Mourinho for transforming the Whites into a winning side.

"Mourinho has revived the winning spirit of Real Madrid," the Arles-Avignon defender told BBC.

"They have not been doing things right for the last few years but Mourinho has got them fighting for trophies again, among the four best teams in Europe," he continued.

Pavon lifted the Champions League trophy with the Spanish giants back in 2001-02 playing alongside modern greats Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo, Luis Figo, Roberto Carlos and Raul.

His time at the Bernebeu ended on a sour note however, as Fabio Capello relegated him to the bench for much of the 2006-07 campaign.

Despite being abruptly offloaded the following year, Pavon said his connection with the club remained strong.

"I still have friends at the club, like Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos, who I played with during my time there. They are all delighted with the manager because he is very direct. He tells them what he likes and what he doesn't like to their face. He doesn't tell you one thing while he is thinking something else. Every player wants a coach like that."

Returning to the upcoming Champions League showdown, Pavon was unabashed in his views.

"For me, they are the two best teams in the world, for their quality, their history and many things besides.

"I don't think there should be any hatred there [between the fans]. Real Madrid would not be Real Madrid if Barcelona didn't exist and vice versa. They drive each other to new levels," he concluded.

Real Madrid or Barcelona will win the Champions League - Bernd Schuster

2011-04-26T19:08:00.000-07:00

Bernd Schuster believes either Real Madrid or Barcelona will be crowned Champions League winners this year after describing them as the best two teams in Europe.

The former Real Madrid coach, who played for them and Barcelona as a midfielder during the 1980s spoke ahead of the European showdown at the Bernabeu on Wednesday night as they contest the semi-final, first-leg.

Schalke or Manchester United will meet one of the Spanish giants in the final, but Schuster could not see La Liga's dominance on the continent being broken.

"Right now none of them could compete with Real Madrid or Barcelona as they are the best two teams in Europe," the 51-year-old German told AS.com.

On the game he said there would be "nerves, tension and intensity," as the "Champions League is the title of all titles."

Schuster then explained why Pep Guardiola moved to question the referee ahead of the game against Real Madrid and feels it's because things are not going to plan.

"This is because they have been winning everything over the past years, and now they lost the Copa [del Rey] which is important, but things are not the same."

The former Real Madrid coach couldn't pick a winner though.

"One of these teams will make the final and this is what is important," he said.

Jose Mourinho is the perfect coach for Real Madrid - Jorge Valdano

2011-04-26T19:07:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid director general Jorge Valdano believes that Jose Mourinho has proven to be the ideal choice to take up the coaching reigns and get the best out of their star-studded squad.

The Portuguese tactician was appointed to replace Manuel Pellegrini in the summer and after a solid yet unspectacular start 'The Special One' has begun to sparkle in the Madrid hotseat, after a number of recently convincing performances.

"Mourinho has a contract for four years and says he wants to stay. I see no reason to disbelieve him," said Valdano in an interview with Sky Sport 24.

"He is the ideal coach for Real Madrid and possesses the same hunger to win."

The Whites are about to commence a colossal Champions League semi-final tie with Barcelona on Wednesday night, and are eight points behind their Catalan compatriots in La Liga with five games to go. However, Valdano remains defiant in his club's chase for a treble this season.

"Against Barcelona, rest assured, we absolutely want to win the Champions League, and we have not given up on the league yet. We will do everything to conquer both competitions," he concluded.

Atletico Madrid's Sergio Aguero eager to reach 100 goals in La Liga

2011-04-26T19:05:00.000-07:00

Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero believes he can reach the 100-goal mark for the club before the end of the term.
His two goals in the 4-1 win over Levante took him to 97 goals for the Rojiblancos in La Liga since joining the capital city club in 2006 from Independiente - making him Atletico's 10th top-scorer of all time.

And with five games to go until the end of the season, the 22-year-old, who has scored 16 in 27 games, believes he can reach 100 goals.

"Right now I am going through a good run and I hope to continue for the good of the team as this is the most important thing," he told the club's official website.

"Goals are worthless if the team is not going to achieve their objectives. We need to play in Europe next season.

"My challenge is to try to reach 100 goals before the end of the season and will be proud if I succeed."

Atleti are sixth in La Liga on 49 points and they meet Deportivo la Coruna next.

Atletico Madrid's Quique Sanchez Flores happy with his side's form after Levante win

2011-04-24T20:13:00.000-07:00

Atletico Madrid coach Quique Sanchez Flores has declared that he is happy with his side's form following their 4-1 victory over Levante.

The victory moves the Madrid-based team up to sixth in the Primera Division table and they are looking good for qualification for next season's Europa League.

Flores believes that qualifying for Europe and the club's UEFA Super Cup success back in August will represent a good season for the side.

"The team started the season well. The middle was not so good but we are finishing strongly. If we finish in the European places combined with our title [UEFA Super Cup] then it would not have been a bad year," the coach told Spanish media after the Levante win.

Despite the comfortable Sergio Aguero-inspired victory, his striking partner Diego Forlan's reaction to being substituted was a sour note on the victory.

"I understand that it is a difficult time for him but the coach has to make decisions and decide what is best for the team," he added.

Atletico are up against Deportivo next weekend where they will be hoping to continue their impressive form.

Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson admits he would relish a Champions League final against Real Madrid

2011-04-24T09:49:00.000-07:00

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits he would relish facing Real Madrid in the Champions League final but is staying focussed on the game against Schalke first.
The Spanish giants are set to play arch-rival Barcelona, from whom they snatched the Copa del Rey in midweek thanks to a header from star winger Cristiano Ronaldo, while Manchester United take on the German team, who have had a fantastic campaign so far in Europe, on Tuesday.

Were the Red Devils to see off Schalke, they would have the chance to land their fourth European crown at Wembley.

Pep Guardiola’s side are favourites to land a second consecutive European title, but Ferguson believes that Real Madrid will take out last year’s frustration at losing the title to Barca.

He told Sky Sports: "From the moment the draw was made, I thought Real had a big chance, I really did.

"I think that 5-0 defeat Real suffered against Barcelona would have hurt Mourinho deeply and he won't be getting beaten like that again, that's for sure.

"Since then, Real have played Barcelona twice, drawing one and winning the other. For that match, the Copa del Rey final, he put Pepe, normally a centre-back, in midfield and they really got wired in to Barcelona.

"[Cristiano] Ronaldo's header to win the game was fantastic but I have seen him do that before. It was a little similar to the one he scored for us against Roma in Italy.

"I thought maybe the goalkeeper could have done better, but the spring and the power he got - it came from the spine, not the neck.

"He was a threat all night, running behind them. I'm not sure it's a case of relishing playing against him in the final but the best way to look at it is that I hope we are there.

"Then we can look at it and decide how we feel. I don't want to be complacent, we want to get to the final first."