Coloccini to sign with Newcastle

soccernet.com

Fabricio Coloccini could walk out on Deportivo La Coruna if they refuse to allow him to complete a switch to Newcastle United.

Reports suggest Coloccini has already agreed personal terms with the Premier League side who are believed to have met the Spanish club's original asking price of 12 million euros.

But Depor have now said they want €14million for the Argentina international, something which has infuriated Coloccini and his agent Marcelo Lombilla. '(Club president Augusto) Lendoiro has to face up to the music and it is that he should not have asked for two million more from anyone,' Lombilla told Spanish sports daily AS. 'One day he tells me a million will be enough, but he won't accept that, because he thinks there is a million and a half. 'For Coloccini it is a shame that he may miss out on the contract of his life.'

Depor left for a pre-season tour of Venezuela on Monday but Coloccini was not included in the travelling party as the wranglings over his future continue. And Lombilla, who has already had several meetings with Lendoiro, has threatened that the 26-year-old could invoke FIFA's Article 17 and walk out on the club, if they do not facilitate his move to St James' Park. Article 17 would allow Coloccini to buy out the remaining time on his contract. 'We don't want to, but if they are pushing us closer to the edge...' Depor coach Miguel Angel Lotina is more or less resigned to losing Coloccini, and has already started looking for a replacement. 'There are several players who are to our liking,' he said. 'But those that we like the most aren't in the Spanish league. 'We have a good idea more or less, but we will wait to see what happens for definite with Coloccini before we put the names on the table.'

Messi Update

Radio Mitre is reporting that Messi's father has spoken to the Olympic team manager Sergio Batista and told him that Messi will be going to the Olympics.

Radio Mitre is also reporting that Messi will give a press conference tomorrow morning in which he will confirm that he will indeed participate in the Olympics.

Maradona: "The national team shirt can not be betrayed"

Diego Maradona has also weighed in on the Messi controversy.

In remarks made to Madrid newspaper MARCA, Maradona said the following:

'The national team shirt can not be betrayed, you have to give your life playing for it."

"We must know how to separate the millions that Barcelona can pay and the glory that can be had by playing for the national team."

Will Messi play in the Olympics?

It's been widely reported that Barcelona has been pressuring Messi into not participating in the upcoming Olympic Games because of the teams Champions League preliminary games that will take place at the same time as the Olympics. It seemed that the issue was settled when FIFA issued a communique last week stating that all club teams must release their players that are under 23 years old that are selected by their national teams to participate in the Olympics.

But, now the new Barcelona manager was quoted as saying that there has not been a final resolution in the Messi situation and that he expects FIFA to side with Barcelona and for Messi to stay with the team instead of going to the Olympics.

The Argentina FA President said that FIFA's rules are clearly on the national team's side and that he fully expects Messi to participate in the Olympics.

Barcelona begins its pre-season training next Monday and Messi is not expected to be there. Or will Lio be there and miss out on the Olympics in order to avoid a big conflict with his club team?

Manchester United to make offer for Aguero

Tevez & Aguero - Manchester United teamamates?

Will Manchester United pay the rescission clause of 55 million euros and bring Aguero to the Premier League?

espn.com

One of England's top clubs are poised to launch a bid for Atletico Madrid forward Sergio Aguero, the player's agent has revealed.

At just 20 years old, 'El Kun' is already one of Europe's hottest properties, with Atletico having to fight to keep hold of their Argentinian star last summer after he won the Golden Boot and player of the tournament awards at the Under-20 World Cup in Canada.

His stock rose further last season as he netted 20 goals in 37 Primera Liga games while picking up Spain's player of the year award in just his second 12 months on the continent. Atletico president Enrique Cerezo has repeatedly denied ever having received a bid for the striker, but with plenty of interest in the young star reported in January, the capital club felt moved to increase Aguero's buy-out clause to 55million euros.

However, according to the player's representative, Jose Segui, even that huge sum will not be enough to put off one of the English Premier League's top sides. And while he stopped short of naming names, Segui insisted the interested party was not Chelsea. 'I've received an offer from a big English club and they've asked me to pass that offer on to Atletico Madrid,' Segui told Spanish newspaper AS. 'I can't say anything more until I've spoken to the club about this definite offer. 'I can only say that it's one of the best clubs in Europe and it's not Chelsea.' The belief in Spain is that Manchester United are the club in question, as they are seen by the Spanish media as the only club other than Chelsea capable of affording the player. However, they may face a challenge luring the player to England's North West, as 'El Kun' has repeatedly stated that he is happy with his life in Madrid.

Olympic Squad List Update

U-23 manager Sergio Batista is being interviewed on Radio Del Plata and he is saying that Burdisso will probably not participate in the Olympics because of pressures by his club team Inter.

Batista also said that there is a possibility that Heinze will play in the Olympics afterall.

Official Olympic Squad List

Burdisso will anchor the backline in the Olympics.

U-23 manager Sergio Batista presented the official list of 18 players that will represent Argentina in the upcoming Olympic Games. It still remains to be seen if Gago and Messi will make the trip to China. Both of their club teams have been pressuring the players into not participating in the Olympics.

Argentina Olympic Team:

GK - Oscar Ustari (Getafe)
GK - Sergio Romero (AZ Alkmaar)

D - Pablo Zabaleta (Deportivo Espanyol)
D - Ezequiel Garay (Real Madrid)
D - Federico Fazio (Sevilla)
D - Nicolás Burdisso (Inter Milan)
D - Luciano Monzón (Boca Juniors)

M - Fernando Gago (Real Madrid)
M - Ever Banega (Valencia)
M - Javier Mascherano (Liverpool)
M - Juan Román Riquelme (Boca Juniors)
M - Angel Di María (Benfica)
M - José Sosa (Bayern Munich)
M - Diego Buonanotte (River Plate)

F - Lionel Messi (Barcelona)
F - Ezequiel Lavezzi (Napoli)
F - Lautaro Acosta (Sevilla)
F - Sergio Aguero (Atlético Madrid)

Newcastle signs Jonás Gutiérrez

guardian.co.uk

Argentina winger agrees five-year contract for undisclosed fee

Kevin Keegan today made his first significant signing since returning to the manager's office at Newcastle United last January when Jonas Gutierrez, an Argentina international winger, exchanged Real Mallorca for Tyneside.

Although Newcastle declined to disclose the fee, Manchester City lodged a £7m bid for Gutierrez last season while Portsmouth are said to have been prepared to pay around £8m for a primarily right-sided wide man who will be 25 on Saturday.

Keegan seems simply delighted to have finally reinforced a worryingly shallow squad and today said: "Jonas is a wonderful signing for us. I know lots of other clubs were interested in him but he's a terrific addition to our squad. He's an exciting player and I am sure our fans will enjoy watching him."

Although Gutierrez, who has agreed a five-year contract at St James' Park, was identified as a transfer target and then recruited by Dennis Wise, Newcastle's executive director (football), and his sidekick, Tony Jiminez, Keegan's enthusiasm for a player who won his first senior cap for Argentina against France in February this year appears entirely sincere.

Having subsequently appeared for Argentina against Brazil this summer, Gutierrez has been granted an extended holiday and will not join the rest of Keegan's squad when they reconvene for pre-season training on Monday. However the impending arrival of a player who traditionally celebrates scoring - and he claimed five goals in 95 appearances for Real Mallorca after his move from Velez Sarsfield of Argentina - by pulling a spiderman mask over his face, could well influence James Milner's future on Tyneside.

While Newcastle sources insist Keegan is determined to keep Milner, the England Under-21 international right winger is widely admired and may yet depart St James' Park before the end of August.

"I cannot tell you how delighted I am to be signing for Newcastle," said Gutierrez. "The Premier League is the place to play and I cannot wait to meet my new team-mates. I want to prove myself to my team-mates this season."

Deportivo Espanyol interested in Buonanotte

Deportivo Espanyol has set its sights on River Plate's talented 20 year old midfielder Diego Buonanotte who has just completed an outstanding first full season in Argentina and was widely considered the best player in the league as he helped River Plate win the league title.

No official offer has been made yet by Deportivo Espanyol.

elmundodeportivo.es

Buonanotte o Augusto Fernández se postulan como refuerzos para la medular

Aquiles Furlone - 02/07/2008 03:00

El fichaje del mediocentro ofensivo se ha convertido en el objetivo prioritario de la secretaría técnica del Espanyol. Entre los nombres que han entrado en el 'baile' de posibilidades, el mercado argentino no podía quedar al margen y el club donde podría 'pescar' el Espanyol es River Plate, el último campeón de la Liga argentina.

De allí han surgido como opciones dos jóvenes promesas, Diego Buonanotte y Augusto Fernández, ambos con notables cualidades pero de características y condiciones de mercado actuales bien diferentes. El 'enano' Buonanotte, la última gran aparición de la cantera 'millonaria', explotó en la temporada que acaba de finalizar y resultó vital para que el equipo de Diego Simeone acabara dando la vuelta olímpica.

Rápido, hábil, encarador y con buen olfato de gol (fue el 'pichichi' de River en el Torneo Clausura), este talento grande en envase pequeño (mide 1,60 metros y pesa 59 kilos), de sólo 20 años y que disputará junto a Zabaleta y Messi los Juegos Olímpicos, reúne todas las condiciones del prototipo de jugador que busca el Espanyol para la medular.

Sin embargo, su contratación suena a misión imposible. En primer lugar, porque en River no quieren saber nada con desprenderse tan pronto de la última joya. Y luego, porque el dinero con el que cuenta el Espanyol no parece suficiente como para convencer al club argentino de que venda.

El caso de Augusto es totalmente diferente. Después de un par de temporadas en el primer equipo, jugador y directiva coinciden en que ha llegado el momento de saltar a Europa. Y el futbolista está acelerando los trámites para obtener el pasaporte comunitario, lo que facilitaría un traspaso.

Aquí no habría problemas en cuanto a lo que puede ofrecer el Espanyol, ya que con cinco millones sobre la mesa River se desprendería del futbolista. Lo que en cierto modo juega en contra de la operación es que 'el nuevo Lucho González' -así lo llaman por el parecido con su antecesor en River y actual jugador del Porto- no es exactamente el perfil de centrocampista que buscan en Montjuïc.

Aunque se trata de un muy buen futbolista, que además de un gran presente tiene mucho potencial para seguir creciendo, si bien tiene un perfil ofensivo, no es el típico creador que puede asumir la conducción de un equipo.

Las cartas 'argentinas' parecen estar echadas por el lado de River. Será cuestión de tiempo saber si Buonanotte o Augusto Fernández se acaban convirtiendo en el fichaje 'bomba' del Espanyol.

Argentina no longer first in FIFA ranking

The national team has dropped out of first place in the latest FIFA rankings. Argentina is now ranked the 6th best team in the world. Spain has taken the top spot, at least for now.

The current list is, as usual, very Eurocentric.

It seems absurd to me that Paraguay, who is in first place in the South American WC Qualifying standings, is not even listed in the FIFA rankings. Paraguay is surely a better team than at least 50 percent of the teams that made the ranking.

Also, Brasil is the highest ranked South American team even though they are currently in 5th place in WC Qualifying behind both Paraguay and Argentina.


FIFA Rankings - July 2008

1. Spain
2. Italy
3. Germany
4. Brasil
5. Holland
6. Argentina
7. Croatia
8. Czech Republic
9. Portugal
10. France
11. Russia
12. Romania
13. Cameroon
14. Turkey
15. England
16. Scotland
17. Bulgaria
18. Greece
19. Mexico
20. Ghana

Heinze out of Olympic squad

It appears that Gabriel Heinze will be the second player, after Demichelis, to opt out of joining the Argentina Olympic squad for the games this Summer. According to Madrid newspaper AS,
Real Madrid officials have convinced Heinze to stay home so that he may begin the pre-season preparations with the team and so that he can play in the first two official games of the season (the Super Cup) which will take place in August.

as.com

El Madrid convence a Heinze y no irá a los Juegos Olímpicos

Estará en el Algarve el 14 de julio

Quique Rubio | 02/07/2008

Finalmente Heinze no acudirá a los Juegos Olímpicos. El Madrid ha convencido al argentino para que falte a la cita de Pekín, por lo que podrá comenzar la pretemporada con el resto el próximo 14 de julio en El Algarve. La lesión de Cannavaro ha sido vital en las negociaciones. Heinze es consciente del problema que tiene el conjunto blanco por la recuperación del italiano en el arranque de la temporada y ha decidido centrarse en el Madrid, que disputará sus dos primeros partidos oficiales (la Supercopa) en agosto.

Aimar to sign with Benfica

It appears that Pablo Aimar will not be playing in Spain's Second Division next season. According to Portugal's A Bola newspaper, Aimar has reached an agreement with Benfica. The contract will be for 3 years. All that remains now is for the transfer to be finalized between his new team and Real Zaragoza.

Valencia to sign Zabaleta

Valencia has made an offer of 10 million euros for Deportivo Espanyol defender Pablo Zabaleta. The negotiations are near completion and the deal is expected to be announced soon.


sport.es

EL ARGENTINO TIENE TODOS LOS NÚMEROS PARA VESTIR LA CAMISETA DEL VALENCIA

Zabaleta está casi fuera del Espanyol

Habrá traspaso en el vestuario blanquiazul. Todo hace indicar que el argentino ya ha iniciado su cuenta atrás como futuro jugador che

Tomàs Andreu

En las oficinas del área deportiva están tranquilos. A Pedro Tomás se le ve relajado y no hace falta ni hablar de la permanente sonrisa y buen humor que ha acompañado a Daniel Sánchez Llibre durante los últimos días. El presidente no se cansa de repetir que todo transcurre por buen camino, que los números están cuadrados y que la reestructuración de la plantilla se hará en condiciones porque habrá partida necesaria para lo que haga falta. Una promesa fácil de hacer cuando se está jugando con las cartas marcadas. Y es que Dani y Paco Herrera dan por sentado que habrá entre uno o dos traspasos en las próximas semanas. El primero, el de Pablo Zabaleta, está atado y sólo es cuestión de ser discretos y esperar el momento oportuno. El segundo es más complicado pero también se confía en que Albert Riera acabe encontrando acomodo más tarde o más temprano.

El futuro del lateral argentino está sentenciado de no surgir un cambio de planes totalmente improvisto. En condiciones normales, Zabaleta vestirá la camiseta del Valencia a partir de la próxima temporada. El principio de acuerdo se formalizó hace un par de meses, aunque en las últimas semanas se han producido nuevos contactos para confirmar que la operación queda en ‘punto muerto’ a la espera de que se produzcan unos movimientos previos e indispensables para que el conjunto levantino ponga su maquinaria en marcha. En la edición de ayer del rotativo ‘Superdeporte’ se recogía la cita que el director deportivo del Valencia, Juan Sánchez, mantenía con Paco Herrera el pasado 16 de mayo.

El guión está escrito, aunque todo él se encuentra pendiente de resolver un obstáculo inicial: el portugués Miguel. Es conocido que el Valencia ha puesto al lateral portugués en el mercado y que confía en que no tendrá demasiados problemas para buscarle salida y recaudar algunos millones. El recambio, aprobado por Unai Emery, no es otro que Pablo Zabaleta. Desde el Turia se insiste en pedir máxima discreción y negar cualquier noticia ya que podría afectar negativamente a la hora de poner precio a la salida de Miguel.

Donde no cuadran las informaciones es en el apartado económico. La noticia de ‘Superdeporte’ apunta a un intercambio simple: piden 10 millones de euros por Miguel y ofrecen la misma cantidad por Zabaleta. Durante los últimos meses se ha hablado de cantidades muy dispares, aunque en Montjuïc siguen con la cantinela de que todo pasa por asumir la cláusula de rescisión del defensa.

En cualquier caso, Paco Herrera está advertido del tema desde hace meses y ya ha preparado la alternativa que considera más razonable. Ayer ya adelantábamos que el nombre de Miguel Torres es el escogido para recalar en el equipo justo en el momento en que se concrete la salida de Miguel y la marcha de Zabaleta.

El polivalente lateral madridista lleva un par de años en la agenda del área deportiva blanquiazul pero no ha sido hasta hace unos días cuando Herrera ha logrado concretar una opción preferencial. El defensa es pieza codiciada por varios clubs de Primera, pero el Espanyol habría tomado la delantera a raíz del traspaso de José Callejón.

It Was 30 Years Ago Today

Argentina won its first World Cup.

Juventus interested in Diego Milito

Juventus is the latest team to have expressed an interest in signing Diego Milito. The Italian side is willing to pay up to 10 million euros for the transfer. A meeting has been scheduled for next week between Juve officials and Milito's agent, Fernando Hidalgo.

as.com

La Juventus también se interesa por Diego Milito

El Príncipe gusta a Ranieri y su agente se reunirá en Turín

Jorge Solans | 25/06/2008

A Diego Milito le ha salido una nueva novia, más atractiva todavía que las anteriores: la Juventus de Turín. Un intermediario italiano se puso en contacto telefónico hace unos días con el representante del Príncipe, Fernando Hidalgo, para sondear las circunstancias del delantero zaragocista y el propio Hidalgo, que ya tenía previsto viajar esta semana a Italia por otros asuntos, se desplazará hasta Turín para reunirse en los próximos días con representantes de la Vecchia Signora y concretar su interés en cifras.

Claudio Ranieri, entrenador bianconero, sabe que David Trezeguet tiene las maletas casi preparadas para abandonar Delle Alpi, así que ya ha dado órdenes de encontrar un sustituto de garantías. Diego Milito es uno de los arietes que más seduce a Ranieri y sus superiores creen que la operación es factible, teniendo en cuenta que el Zaragoza ya rechazó una oferta por escrito del Nápoles de 10 millones. Además, Manchester City y Tottenham se interesaron por él hace tiempo. Y el Valencia le tanteó la semana pasada a la espera de lo que suceda con Villa.

Aunque la prioridad del Príncipe es quedarse en España, tanto por motivos deportivos como personales, la aparición de la posibilidad turinesa puede cambiar drásticamente el panorama. De hecho, su hermano Gabi ya estuvo a un paso de firmar por la Juve (cuando su idea inicial era la misma que la de Diego) hace un año, antes de irse al Barcelona.

Zanetti: There are short circuits between Messi & Riquelme

Argentina Captain Javier Zanetti spoke on Radio Latina and said the following:

"There are short circuits that exist between Lionel Messi and Juan Roman Riquleme but it is something that should not be given so much importance because it is a good group."

"These are all things that are always going to exist. Someone like me who has had so many years in football learned to not give it that much importance."

"In a group of 25 to 30 persons it is difficult that everyone will be in agreement, the most important thing is the respect for each other because everyone has their own way of being."

I find it really interesting that the oldest veterans on the team Zanetti and Veron have admitted publicly that there are differences between Messi and Riquelme but younger players like Messi, Mascherano and Riquelme have denied everything and said that the rift between Messi and Riquelme was invented by the media in Argentina.

This inner fighting on the national team has been exposed and it's up to Basile, I think, more than the players involved, to find a resolution to it. The sooner, the better. It's troubling to think that the national team would carry this current turmoil into the next World Cup.

Benfica looking to sign Aimar

Benfica is interested in signing Pablo Aimar and has initiated contacts with Real Zaragoza.

Will Portugal be Aimar's next destination?

marca.com

El Benfica espera cerrar en las próximas horas el fichaje de los jugadores del Recreativo de Huelva Carlos Martis y Sinama Pongolle, mientras pregunta al Zaragoza las condiciones para contratar al argentino Pablo Aimar.

El técnico del Benfica, Quique Sánchez Flores, dijo que confía en que el Benfica "haga todo lo posible" para fichar al centrocampista portugués. "Carlos Martis ha hecho una gran temporada en España y vamos a ver si conseguimos traerlo", dijo el técnico en declaraciones publicadas por el diario 'O Jogo. Sánchez Flores destacó la polivalencia de Martins, ya que "puede funcionar como 10, pero también jugar en la banda derecha".

Cuestionado por el delantero francés, el entrenador madrileño dijo que es "muy rápido" y tiene una gran capacidad de desmarque y de crear ocasiones de gol. "Tengo la esperanza de que los dos puedan venir al Benfica", aseguró Quique Sánchez Flores sobre una operación que podría rondar los 10 millones de euros.

Messi Interview

In today's La Nacion an interview with Lionel Messi

"Those are all lies. They're absurdities that do not deserve a response. I would like to know from where all that came from and what is being sought."

"But I'm not interested in talking about it because it was all invented."

Q - Was the team satisfied with the draw against Brasil?

M - The entire game we were very superior to Brasil, they created one or two scoring chances and the rest was all us. We proved that we can compete against a big team. We could have won the game if I had scored in one of the plays where I was in front of the goal.

Q - What do you think of the arguments that have been made that the team can not defeat Brasil without its stars?

M - When we lose, we don't talk about the Brazilian A team or Brazilian B team. I think we always take the initiative and playing as visitors. We had the clearest scoring chances but we did not have luck in front of the goal. The team was able to control Brasil and create goal scoring opportunities. We weren't able to score but we played well.

Q - The last 3 games the team earned 2 points. How do you see the team going forward?

M - I see it well. With alot of faith in our game. We have great players. Even though some look at the 2 points we earned in these last few games, we are doing well and are close to the first place team. As more games are played we are going to be more secure in how the team functions. I don't think we'll have any problems but anyway that'll be shown in each game. The WC Qualifiers are not easy but we feel calm.

Q - You made your official debut in the 2006 WC Qualifiers, when Argentina was already qualified. Now it is different. Do you feel more pressure?

M - I don't think about the issue of pressure. What I'm experiencing now is without a doubt totally different. When the team was already qualified it played with more calm. Whereas now I'm playing from the start and I hope that I can be in all the WC Qualifiers and be important to Argentina.

Q - In Barcelona and in Argentina you've been in locker rooms with well known players. Are there similarities?

M - No, because with Barcelona I'm there alot more of the time. The only similarity is that in Barcelona there are good individual talents and on the national team too. In every place where I am I try to enjoy the comradarie. And I enjoy every callup alot.

Valencia looking to sign Diego Milito

Valencia has initiated negotiations with Milito's lawyer and his agent for a possible transfer.

as.com

El Valencia pide a Milito que no firme por nadie

Sánchez habló con su agente, a la espera de qué sucede con Villa

P. Morata | 19/06/2008

"Villa es intransferible", asegura el Valencia día sí y día también. Pero por si a caso, la secretaría técnica tiene un plan B. Juan Sánchez ha contactado en los últimos días con Adrián Faija, abogado de Diego Milito y socio de su agente, Fernando Hidalgo. Según pudo conocer AS, Sánchez se interesó por la posibilidad de que el delantero del Zaragoza no se comprometa con ningún equipo hasta una determinada fecha. Y se le dijo, desde el entorno del futbolista, que era una propuesta razonable. Esta semana, el secretario técnico ché debe concretar con los agentes cuál es la fecha tope hasta la que solicitaría al goleador zaragocista que esperase al Valencia. Juan Sánchez no quiere vender al asturiano pero tiene muy claro que, en caso de que el futbolista prefiera salir y llegue una oferta irrechazable, necesita tener como sustituto un "número uno".

Y ese jugador indiscutible es el argentino, muy por encima de Dani Güiza. Sus cifras realizadoras son, simplemente, demoledoras. En tres temporadas en el equipo aragonés ha marcado 53 goles en la liga española, los mismos que Eto?o, por ejemplo. Sólo el propio Villa, con 58 goles ha marcado más que él en el último trienio en la liga de los ases.

A favor del Valencia juega que Diego Milito no quiere salir de España y que estaría encantado de enrolarse en las filas valencianistas. De hecho, es el propio futbolista quien abandera la idea de esperar una oferta ché antes que emigrar al fútbol italiano, donde se encuentran la mayor parte de sus pretendientes. El último en sumarse, tras un primer intento del Nápoles, es la Juventus, que cerca de desprenderse de David Trezeguet se ha fijado en él. Fernando Hidalgo tiene previsto desplazarse a Turín para reunirse con los directivos de la vecchia signora. Falta saber si lo hará con intención de cerrar la operación o sólo a escuchar, tal y como le ha pedido el Valencia.

El máximo accionista del Valencia, Juan Soler, ya se interesó en su día, personalmente, por la contratación de Diego Milito. Fue en la primavera de 2006, tras completar una primera temporada imperial en el Zaragoza, en la que consiguió 15 goles. A Soler le gustaba la idea de juntar en Valencia a Milito y a Ewerthon, en aquel entonces muy cotizado jugador de banda derecha. Finalmente, el Valencia fichó a Fernando Morientes.

Messi receives ovation from Brasil fans

Lio Messi was widely applauded by the Brasil fans during the WC Qualifying game which has caused a great deal of ire among the Brasil players.

So, Messi is a favorite among Brasil's fans.

What if Lio wore the other shirt?

What would he look like?



He would not look good at all.

Fortunately, Messi is ours.

Made in Argentina

Keeping up appearances?

Last night in Brasil, Riquelme having a warm moment with Messi.

Argentina-Brasil Lineup Update

Though this isn't official, Radio Mitre is reporting that Jonas Gutierrez will replace Maxi Rodriguez in the starting lineup and that Zanetti will move to the right midfield spot with Mascherano & Gago in the central midfield.

Also, Julio Cruz will replace Sergio Aguero in the starting lineup.

UPDATE - 7:50 PM EDT

The Official Lineup for tonight's game:

GK - Abbondanzieri
D - Burdisso
D - Coloccini
D - Heinze
M - Zanetti
M - Mascherano
M - Gago
M - Gutierrez
M - Riquelme
F - Messi
F - Cruz

Argentina vs Brasil

There's not a whole lot to say beforehand about an Argentina-Brasil game other than it is the biggest game in world football.

The news around tonight's game though has been marred by the news that's been widely reported of a rift between Lio Messi and Juan Roman Riquelme.

It remains to be seen what kind of an impact the controversy that has ensued will have on the team tonight.

Argentina is looking to bounce back from its very poor performance against Ecuador and end the latest stage of its WC Qualifying campaign on a very high note with a win over Brasil.

The starting lineup has not been confirmed yet and there are question marks on each line.

Either Gonzalo Rodriguez or Coloccini will replace Demichelis who will not be available because of yellow card accumulation.

If Mascherano plays he will move to the right side of the midfield with Gago in the central midfield spot.

If Aguero is fully recovered from his injury he will play if not then there's the possibility that Julio Cruz will join Messi upfront.

Basile will use a 4-3-1-2 formation with the following lineup:

GK - Abbondanzieri
D - Zanetti
D - Burdisso
D - Gonzalo Rodriguez/Coloccini
D - Heinze
M - Mascherano
M - Gago
M - Maxi Rodriguez
M - Riquelme
F - Messi
F - Aguero/Cruz

VAMOS ARGENTINA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Verón: Messi is just as important as Riquelme

In an interview today on TyC Sports, Juan Sebastian Verón talked about the Riquelme-Messi controversy.

"I was surprised to hear what was said. I never saw any tensions, never saw a fight. I'm sure there are differences between them, mostly because of the age difference, differences of opinion but the objective is to win."

"These type of issues always come to light when players who are stars in their club teams, get together in the national team. I don't know what is being sought with this. Representing the country needs to be what everyone desires but it doesn't seem to be that way."

"Since I've been on the national team Grondona has always been inside the locker room before and after the games. and he talks with everyone not just with Messi."

"There are always going to be these kind of disputes because it involves two strong personalities, with influence within the team. In 1986 there was a dispute between Passarella and Maradona and we ended up world champions."

"Messi is just as important as Riquelme. Everyone is needed, Messi, Riquelme, Tevez, Aguero and the rest."

"Riquelme is not a complicated person, he doesn't speak to one person and not to another or does so behind anyone's back. He's a calm person, I don't see him as a trouble maker."

---------------

An interesting side note, Verón, who is recovering from an injury did not travel to Brasil with the team while Demichelis and Cambiasso, who are also not eligible to play against Brasil did accompany the team.

It seems to me that someone with the experience that Verón has and who is looked at as one of the leaders on the team should have traveled to Brasil to provide moral support and more importantly to provide leadership and help in maintaining team unity at this critical moment when the team is dealing with the explosive news of the Riquelme-Messi infighting and all the controversy that has ensued.

Mascherano Interview

Javier Mascherano spoke to ESPN about the game tonight.

Q - How do you anticipate a game against such an important opponent such as Brasil?

M - We've already faced them in the previous WC Qualifiers and we know it is difficult but it is a great motivation to play in such an important game and every player wants to play in this game.

Q - It's been 4 years since you made your debut against Brasil in a WC Qualifying game, at the time you had only played in a few games with River Plate, what did you think it would be like to play against, say, Ronaldo, who you had seen alot on TV?

M - Well, when you play against such important players and for the first time, those are things that make you grow. Now at this moment I'm a little more used to such duels, to playing against important players but it hasn't changed my way of thinking from 4 years ago, now of course I have more experience, but with the same eagerness to play.

Q - What are the things that motivate you to come to the national team after playing in the Premier League and everything you experienced in the last 6 months, besides the Argentina shirt, but rather the possibility of being once again a part of the national team?

M - For everybody it is important, I think, in a players career to play for your country, for your national team it is the most important thing you have and of course, it is a priority. I think that the day when you no longer want to do that, it is not an obligation. You say it and give the opportunity to another player but as long as you are eager to do it, it is a beautiful thing. In such a short career you have to take advantage of every moment.

Q - You have now surpassed 20 games with the national team, Do you feel you are an unquestionable model of this new group even though there are very important players like you on this team?

M - No. More than anything we follow the path set by the more experienced players. At no moment did I feel or feel now that I'm an unquestionable model but yes I do feel important because my teammates make me feel that way, like everyone that is here feels important. But the place of unquestionable model belongs to other people that handle that role very well.

Q - What do you feel about the opportunity to play in a game like this, for example in the way that these WC Qualifying games are played, playing well with your club team and then returning to the national team?

M - It is always like that. You get used to it. In this case it is a little strange because the Premier League season is over but I'm continuing to play but otherwise you continue to play in the Premier League, you go back and forth with the national team and everyone returns to their club team. The truth is that things don't really change that much. I'll say it again. One is here with the national team because you want to and are eager to be here and everyone that is here is proud and feels a great joy.

Heinze: We must land a blow on Brasil's table

Gabriel Heinze on the big game tonight.

"We will be going after the 3 points. It would be the best way of ending this stage of the WC Qualifying. I want to win in Brasil and believe that we will win. I can feel it. It's about time. Argentina must land a blow on Brasil's table . I am in debt with myself and want to pay it. I don't think of anything else."

"In football you can win, lose or draw. The important thing is to learn from the errors. I believe in these players. One bad performance does not tear anything down. All the national team games are vital because of the great expectations that it awakens. And there are always pressures when you play on the national team."

"It is true that the team did not function well against Ecuador and that is why we only had a draw. It made us really angry because we could not get done everything we attempted to do in front of our people. In the locker room there was a mix of sadness and anger. But it's done. We now have Brasil and we are going to give all our soul to beat them. Nobody should have any doubt of that."

Riquelme-Messi Fight

On the eve of the big WQ Qualifier against Brasil some really unfortunate news has taken over the headlines from tonight's game. That is, an internal fight between Riquelme and Messi.

According to a myriad of media reports after Argentina's dreadful performance against Ecuador, AFA president Julio Grondona approached Messi in the locker room and said to him, with Riquelme nearby and within listening range, "Look, you are the owner of the team."

Riquelme did not like the remarks made by Grondona. This incident appears to be the spark that has brought to light some ongoing tensions between Riquelme and Messi.

As far as Messi, it is being reported that he has confided in a teammate (Veron) that he cannot tolerate the airs being put on by Riquelme, that of someone untouchable, of being above everyone else and Messi went on to say that he can no longer stand Riquelme. It is also being reported that 3 days before the Ecuador game, Messi was very upset with the whole situation and came close to leaving the teams training ground. A teammate had stopped him.

What did Riquelme say about this latest controversy that involves him?

The player spoke with a reporter in the hotel where the national team is staying in Belo Horizonte.

Q - How do you get along with Messi?

R - Why?

Q - Because there are reports of a fight and of differences between you both?

R - No, definitely not. It's another invention that is being placed in my way.

Q - Why do you think that you are always in the middle of these things? It happened in Boca, in the national team?

R - It must be that I'm not liked by alot of people.


It's hard not to read the situation as a clash of egos between Riquelme and Messi. On one side there's Riquelme who is backed 100 percent by Basile, who always makes sure to praise him in public and who has made it known to everyone that Riquelme is the undisputed leader and heart of the team.

On the other side there is Messi who is without a doubt the most talented player on the team and the team's biggest star. The only superstar on the national team. It wouldn't be hard to understand why he would be angry about the special status that Basile has given Riquelme and the existence, according to Messi, of some outward airs by Riquelme.

At the heart of this alleged fight may very well be both players desire to be the undisputed leader of the national team.

If all or even some of what is being reported is true, it is not only sad but a really troubling situation that will cause serious harm to the national team.

What happens from here on? How will Basile handle this situation?

Real Betis interested in Banega

Real Betis is looking to take Valencia midfielder Ever Banega on a loan from his club who has initially approved the move but also wants to include in the deal an option to sell the player.

marca.com

El Betis solicita la cesión de Banega

M. TORRECILLAS / D. PICÓ. Sevilla y Valencia El Valencia se ha convertido en uno de los mercados más propicios para el Betis a la hora de reforzarse. A las opciones de Sunny, Caneira o Sisi se suma otro nombre que la Dirección Deportiva considera muy interesante: Ever Banega. El conjunto verdiblanco conoció a principios de semana que el Valencia quería cederlo y en seguida se interesó por las condiciones del préstamo, que se ajustan perfectamente a los parámetros en los que se mueve la entidad.

La decisión final, que también está a expensas del visto bueno de jugador, debe ser rápida. Y es que en Heliópolis son conscientes de que ya son varios los clubes interesados en el joven argentino, que ocuparía plaza de extranjero, pero que se ajusta al perfil de bueno y barato que buscan.

En las reuniones para la confección de la plantilla que mantuvieron el director deportivo, Juan Sánchez, y el técnico, Unai Emery, llegaron a la conclusión de que sería muy positivo que Banega jugase cedido un año en un club español donde pueda disfrutar de mayor continuidad para terminar así su rodaje en la Liga. Y en este sentido ven al Betis como un club ideal.

Inviable la opción de compra

Dos son los inconvenientes (en ambos casos salvables), que ofrece la negociación. En primer lugar, a Ruiz de Lopera le gusta incluir siempre una opción de compra sobre el jugador y en este caso parece inviable. Primero, porque el Valencia cuenta con el centrocampista a medio plazo y, segundo, porque en el mercado invernal pagó 17 millones de euros por el internacional.

La segunda es que el argentino estará en los Juegos Olímpicos de Pekín, por lo que no podrá hacer la pretemporada. En el caso del Valencia, este dato ha pesado en su decisión de cederlo, ya que en agosto juega la Supercopa. En el caso del Betis, la urgencia no es tanta, ya que el propio Chaparro tiene asumido que algunos refuerzos pueden llegar más tarde. Banega gusta en el Betis, aunque los episodios extradeportivos que ha protagonizado generan alguna duda.

Por otra parte, la opción Caneira sigue viva. El problema es que el Valencia quiere venderlo y aunque su coste nunca superaría los 2 millones, en Heliópolis no quieren hacer aún ese desembolso, ya que se restaría de los 6 millones en total que tienen inicialmente para fichar. Y la prioridad sigue siendo un medio recuperador.

Starting Lineup Update for Ecuador game

In yesterday's training session the lineup was the following:

GK - Abbondanzieri
D - Burdisso
D - Demichelis
D - Heinze
M - Zanetti
M - Mascherano
M - Veron
M - Maxi Rodriguez
M - Riquelme
F - Messi
F - Aguero

Barring any last minute changes, Riquelme continues to recover the weight that he lost due to a case of gastroenteritis, that will probably be the lineup on Sunday against Ecuador.

Basile will use a 3-4-1-2 formation but with Zanetti in the right midfield spot, the backline easily becomes a 4 man line. Mascherano will once again be responsible for covering alot of space in the midfield as there will be no partnership with Gago, at least not at the start of the game. Veron will in theory play alongside Mascherano but he won't be static so he'll be in different areas of the field and will be looking to link up with Riquelme. Maxi Rodriguez will switch to the left side of the midfield.

Riquelme will of course lead the attack and Messi and Aguero will be the dynamic duo upfront.

Napoli signs Germán Denis

Independiente striker Germán Denis will be playing alongside Ezequiel Lavezzi in the 2008/09 season as Napoli paid 12 million dollars for his transfer.

This will actually be a return to Italy for Denis who at the age of 19 played for Cesena.

espndeportes.com

BUENOS AIRES -- El delantero Germán Denis, de Independiente, consideró que esta vez, con su pase al Nápoli concretado, volverá a Italia "con más experiencia" y "más tranquilo de la cabeza".

"Estoy muy contento por ir al Nápoles, equipo en el que jugó el más grande de todos", dijo Denis, en referencia a Diego Armando Maradona. "Italia me seduce muchísimo. No acepté antes otras propuestas porque, después de 27 goles en la temporada, sabía que iba a poder elegir un fútbol competitivo", comentó el futbolista, por el que se pagaron unos 12 millones de dólares.

El futbolista dijo que "sólo falta ahora firmar el contrato" con el equipo partenopeo, en el que ha tenido una buena temporada otro delantero argentino, Ezequiel Lavezzi.

Denis comparó esta partida a Italia con la que tuvo cuando a los 19 años fue al Cesena sin mayor éxito. "Entonces me costó muchísimo. Hoy voy con más experiencia, hoy tengo un respaldo y la cabeza se maneja con más tranquilidad", dijo por el canal de cable TyC Sports tras el entrenamiento en el predio Santo Domingo, en Villa Domínico. Denis admitió que le "hubiese gustado tener más continuidad" en el seleccionado, y que espera tener un "broche de oro" en el partido de despedida ante Arsenal si logra que Independiente ingrese a las copas y hacer dos goles que lo volverían a tener como goleador del torneo. La segura salida de Denis llevó al entrenador Claudio Borghi a pedir al menos dos delanteros y dos volantes y si se va Carlos Matheu un central.

Basile on not callingup Palermo

In today's press conference el Coco Basile addressed the much rumored callup that finally did not happen of Martin Palermo.

-----------------

"I like Palermo alot but since he's always playing with Boca and he did not have the possibility of playing in any friendlies, it would be disrespectful to the other 5 strikers that came from Europe for me to have calledup Palermo."

"If I bring him, the team then has to play for him in the way that he plays and if I do bring him, it is to use him."

"I'm still considering him (for a future callup)."

Veron: A climate has been created against me

Yesterday a media session was held with the players and Juan Sebastian Veron spoke. For whatever reason there is always controversy surrounding him and his callups to the national team.
--------------

"I don't give any importance to what people say or what might happen and it doesn't affect me either. What I am accountable to, is the team, the shirt, and the manager, who has confidence in me, whether I play or not, and whenever I wasn't calledup, I always followed the team."

"I think its clear that since my return to the national team or since the World Cup, a climate has been created against me but I can't be paying attention to it or questioning what people feel or what they say or how its expressed. I play football, doing what I like and in this case, I'm accountable to the group that I'm a part of and that's why I always try to give my best."

"Because of my form as of late, I'm sure that I would contribute more to the team and the squad by being in the lineup. But the manager will decide which system to use and most of all, we'll have to adjust to what the manager requires of us. I think that by having so many options in the squad the manager will have at his disposal any system he thinks is convenient and necessary for this game and against Brasil. I think its good that he tries different things."

Possible lineup against Ecuador

The starting lineup for Sunday's WC Qualifier against Ecuador is not official yet.

Basile gave a press conference today and said that he would confirm the starting eleven on Saturday afternoon.

However, the training sessions have offered some clues.

The GK and the backline appear to be set with Abbondanzieri and Burdisso, Demichelis, Heinze defending.

The remaining questions revolve around Riquelme and Veron.

The first one is the status of Juan Roman Riquelme. If he is not 100% healthy then Basile will probably not include him in the lineup as it would make more sense to save him for the game against Brasil.


Will they play together again?

Based on what's been seen in the practice sessions it appears that Basile will go with Mascherano & Gago in the midfield and if Riquelme does not play then the team will probably have 3 players upfront. Messi, Aguero, Cruz. Basile will likely go with the 3-4-3- formation. This would leave Veron out of the lineup.

But, if Basile decides against going with Masche/Gago in the midfield then Veron might take Gago's spot. The other scenario is Basile including Riquelme & Veron in the lineup with Mascherano alone in the central midfield spot and Maxi Rodriguez on the left side.

At this point, nothing is officially confirmed so there is still a possibility that Veron will be in the starting eleven against Ecuador.

These are some of the lineup possibilities:

Lineup 1


-------------------------------------Abbondanzieri----------------------------------------


------------Burdisso------------------Demichelis--------------------Heinze----------------


---Zanetti------------------Mascherano---------Gago-------------Maxi---------------


---------------------------------------------Riquelme----------------------------------


-------------------------------Messi------------------------Aguero----------------------



Lineup 2


-------------------------------------Abbondanzieri--------------------------------------


--------Burdisso---------------------Demichelis--------------------------Heinze----------


----Zanetti-----------------Mascherano----------Veron-------------Maxi------------


--------------------------------------------Riquelme-------------------------------------------


---------------------------Messi---------------------------Aguero---------------------------



Lineup 3


---------------------------------------Abbondanzieri-----------------------------------------


----------Burdisso---------------------Demichelis---------------------Heinze-------------------


-----Zanetti----------------Mascherano-----------Gago--------------Maxi-----------------


---------------Messi-----------------------Cruz-------------------Aguero----------------------

Riquelme Interview

In today's La Nacion an interview with Juan Roman Riquelme.

"If Riquelme plays or not, very little will change"

The midfielder says that the national team has a football identity that will not be modified whether he is in the lineup or not.

Q - In the practice session you were seen laughing with your teammates, making jokes....

R - It's not the first time I say this: for anyone it is a pleasure to be here. We have a good time, we have a really good group, the truth is we all get along well, we have alot of fun. Just as much in the locker room as on the field, everything is enjoyed to the maximum. Now lets hope that on Sunday we are capable of doing things well against Ecuador and give some joy to the people.

Q - During the USA tour, Basile changed the system, the team functioned well and did so without a playmaker....

R - Argentina can play in any way that it wants. It has players of a very high level. Technically they make things very easy, like Lionel, el Kun, Cruz, who is in incredible form. Now we are lucky to have La Bruja (Veron) and Maxi Rodriguez. We have a way of playing, if Riquelme plays or not, very little will change. We always attempt to handle the ball well, look to beat the opponent, for the people to be happy and for them to like the way the team plays.

The game against Mexico, which I couldn't see because I was with Boca in the Copa Libertadores, it was said that at moments the team controlled the ball really well and that makes me happy because no matter who plays, there is a football identity defined.

Q- The presence of Aguero makes the team stronger and gives it more explosion?

R - We are fortunate that every time there's a game the manager has alot of problems, in the sense that we are never satisfied because there's always someone who's out of the lineup. There are many players that are in incredible form. We have el Kun, in a very high level. Carlitos Tevez), who is not with us right now. But this all very good for the national team.

Q - When you are all on the field, is it easier to play good football?

R - Yes, because one enjoys it. Not only during the games, but also in the training sessions we have alot of fun. For example yesterday, I think that the reporters, just like we did , had fun watching the game that we played in tight spaces.

Q - Alot has been talked about lately about your physical condition, especially the gastroenteritis that kept you out of Boca's semifinal game against Fluminense. Are you in condition to play against Ecuador and Brasil?

R - I am fine, with a little less weight but the gastroenteritis is gone. Now I have to eat alot, regain the weight I lost and be happy playing football. I'm thinking of both games. In a few days I will be alright, I'm not going to have any problems to play.

Q - In these two games that you want to be a part of, alot is being said about the derby against Brasil, but shouldn't there be more attention given to Ecuador?

R - Of course. To us it represents 3 points. We know that beating Brasil is really beautiful, for the people it would be a great joy but first comes Ecuador, who we know is going to be very complicated. What we want is to qualify to the World Cup as quickly as possible and our next step is Sunday against Ecuador and we'll have Brasil after that. We know that these 6 points that are at play will be crucial in what we are trying to achieve. Besides, if we win both games, we'll be real close to being in first place. I always say that it is nice to be at the top and we will try to do that so that the people will be happy with the team.

Q - First is Ecuador but what do you do to not think about the derby against Brasil?

R - Of course we are thinking about Brasil, its the most important game of the WC Qualifiers. It's always good to beat them because they have a history and players of the highest level. Besides, we know that the games against Brasil, especially away, is special to our people.

Q - Do you feel that the people are already identified with this team?

R - The feeling that the people have for the national team never changes. They could agree or disagree with the way it plays but the feeling is always the same. I'm sure that on Sunday, El Monumental will be full and they will cheer us on like always.

Solari to remain in Europe

Santiago Solari put an end to the rumors that have been circulating about a possible return to Argentina to play for his old team River Plate.

In a lengthy interview today on Radio La Red, Solari categorically stated that he is staying in Europe despite the fact that his time with Inter is coming to an end.

Solari also said that he is looking to sign with a top European club and is interested in experiencing a new league.

La Red also reported today that Roberto Ayala will be arriving in Argentina in the next few days and that the River Plate manager and the team president will be meeting with him in an attempt to convince Ayala to sign with the team.

Roma interested in Diego Milito transfer

Roma is looking at the possibility of signing Diego Milito. The Italian club is willing to offer the transfer of Amantino Mancini and an undisclosed amount of money.

Milito's transfer is set 15 million euros.

elmundodeportivo.es

La Roma se interesa por el fichaje de Diego Milito

ROMA - El delantero argentino Diego Milito está en los planes de la Roma, que ofrecería al brasileño Amantino Mancini y dinero por su fichaje al Zaragoza. Fuentes del club italiano afirmaron que Milito es el hombre ideal para reforzar la delantera del plantel dirigido por Luciano Spalletti. "Es cierto que la Roma sigue con interés al jugador; el problema es su elevada cotización", declaró Fernando Hidalgo, agente del argentino.

El pase de Milito, que pasó por el calcio jugando en el Génova, fue tasado en 15 millones, mientras que el de Mancini no supera los 8 millones.

Official: Demichelis out of Olympic team

After all the controversy, the back and forth between the player and Bayern Munich. AFA president Julio Grondona has made it official.

Martin Demichelis will not go to the Olympics with the U-23 team.

Grondona said the following:

"The Bayern president was not flexible and did not want to cede the player. So, therefore we have to try to not cause any harm to to the player, under any perspective."

Fuente: DPA

Demichelis no irá a Beijing

El defensor del Bayern Múnich no podrá integrar la selección argentina de fútbol que competirá en los Juegos Olímpicos 2008, confirmó hoy Grondona

"El problema que tengo insoluble es con Demichelis. El presidente del Bayern, (Karl-Heinz) Rummenigge, es muy reglamentarista. No tiene elasticidad y no quiere cederlo. Y entonces tenemos que tratar de no perjudicar al jugador por ningún punto de vista", declaró Grondona, también número dos de la FIFA.

En cambio, la AFA tiene "la posibilidad de arreglar" los problemas que se presentaron con el Liverpool de Inglaterra por la cesión del volante Javier Mascherano.

El técnico de la selección Sub-23 que irá a Beijing, Sergio Batista, analiza reemplazar a Demichelis por Nicolás Burdisso o Fabricio Coloccini.

Lazio & Barcleona make offers for Palacio

Lazio has made an offer of 18 million dollars for Boca Juniors forward Rodrigo Palacio.

Radio Mitre is reporting that according to Palacio's agent, Barcelona has made an offer of 20 million euros for Palacio.

tycsports.com

El club italiano le hizo llegar al Xeneize una propuesta por el delantero bahiense y en las próximas horas habrá novedades. Mientras tanto, Mauro Zárate suena como su reemplazante. Rodrigo Palacio podría continuar su carrera en la Lazio, club que le ofreció 18 millones de dólares a Boca por el pase del delantero bahiense. Los dirigentes xeneizes y el jugador evaluarán la propuesta y darán una respuesta en las próximas horas.

Palacio también es pretendido por otros equipos europeos, entre ellos Barcelona, aunque fue el conjunto de la capital italiana el primero en acercar una propuesta formal por el ex Huracán de Tres Arroyos y Banfield.

World Cup Qualifying Resumes

The WC Qualifying campaign starts up again this weekend as the national team takes on Ecuador in Buenos Aires and then the following Wednesday in Belo Horizonte, the big one against Brasil.

Argentina is currently in second place, one point behind Paraguay in the standings, and while there are still many games left to play, the team is well positioned and should continue to progress towards securing a spot in the 2010 World Cup.

As is usually the case, there are some important issues taking place in and around the national team.

-The emergence of Sergio Aguero-


Ever since making his professional debut with Independiente at the age of 15, alot has been said and expected from el Kun Aguero. One of the greatest talents to come out of Argentina in the last 10 years. In the 2007/08 season he fully established himself in Atletico de Madrid, completing his best season in Europe, reaching new highs in goal scoring and in overall form.

This has crossed over to the national team as well. While still in its early stages, it appears that Aguero is starting to earn a permanent place in the starting lineup. More importantly, a fantastic partnership with Lio Messi is also beginning to develop.

Everyone obviously knows what Messi, even at his current age, means to Argentina but after Lio, I believe that Aguero is and will be for a very long time the national team's most important player.

All the hype and promise surrounding him is being fulfilled and at 20 years of age, el Kun has finally arrived.

- Maxi Rodriguez recovers from his injury -


Another Atletico de Madrid player. Since recovering from a knee injury that kept him out of the Copa America, Maxi went on to have a very strong finish to the 2007/08 season with his team , contributing some important goals along the way and as his performance in the recent national team friendlies in the USA confirm, Maxi is well on his way to earning a spot back in the starting lineup.

In the time that he's been away from the national team there has not been anyone who has impressed, let alone earned a permanent spot on the right side of the midfield. Basile has used other players but Maxi is the best option that Argentina has in that position and his strengths: pace, attacking ability, goal scoring, defensive skills, remains unmatched.

Maxi's recovery and return to the national team is truly fantastic news.

- Veron called up again -


After his poor performance in the last Copa America and his own announcement of retirement from the national team afterwards, it seemed that Juan Sebastian Veron's time with the national team had come to a disappointing end.

But Basile has decided to bring him back.

It's a callup that I find hard to understand. The immediate questions that come to mind are:

- Does the team need Veron?
- Is there a place in the starting lineup for Veron?

I think that Argentina has alot more to lose than gain at this point by having Veron back on the team. After the Copa America debacle, one of the very few positive outcomes seemed to be the end of the participation of a generation of players who had been with the national team for many years. The influx of younger talents and a revamping of the starting eleven, signaling the start of a new era with a new generation of players seemed to be the next logical step.

Viewing the team's footballing situation short term and long term that was clearly the way forward and it has been for the most part but that's why bringing Veron back is such a step backwards for the national team as it proceeds with its current and crucial generational transition.

In which spot would Veron play?

Basile has made one thing very clear. Juan Roman Riquelme is the teams playmaker and only an injury will take him out of the starting lineup. If the recent USA tour is any indication, without Riquelme in the lineup, Basile will change the tactical setup to 3-4-3 and even to 4-4-2. Leaving no room for any doubts that Riquelme is Basile's only choice in the playmaker spot and that he would go so far as to change the teams formation before using any other player in that position. That leaves Veron out.

The midfield?

Veron struggled enormously in the Copa America as he switched between playing in a deep midfield role, which has never been his natural position and it obviously showed as he did not have the pace and defensive skills that the role demands. There are players currently available who do fill that role. Mascherano, obviously, and to a lesser extent Gago.

Sharing the playmaking duties with Riquelme, an experiment conducted in the Copa America, despite the reality that both players have very different footballing styles, that neither one was used to sharing control of the ball and that neither was adept at allowing another player to lead the attack, resulted in a predictable individual and collective failure.

What purpose is being served by having Veron back on the national team?


- Mascherano & Gago midfield partnership -

One of the notable things that came out of the recent USA tour was Basile's experimenting with Mascherano & Gago in the midfield. Both players have strengths and weaknesses but I think that they have the potential to complement each others skills and deliver a superb amount of balance to the midfield. Mascherano's mobility and tremendous defensive presence combined with Gago's ball control and passing skills as well as being a more than adequate defensive partner.

It's a really interesting idea at the very least, that is worth pursuing. We'll have a clearer picture on the possibility of a permanent Masche/Gago partnership if Basile uses both players in the upcoming WC Qualifiers.


- Basile's tactical setup -

Another notable development during the USA tour was Basile's decision to try some different tactical formations. Most notably the 3-4-3 that worked well against Mexico. That setup won't be used with Riquelme in the lineup but as a system that would need more time and work, it could turnout to be a viable second option.

It's an important development as Argentina's WC Qualifying campaign resumes and the team continues to evolve and move forward.

Denis transfer to Napoli is almost done

According to Ole, Independiente goal scorer Germán Denis is close to signing with Napoli. The transfer would be made for 12 million dollars.

The negotiations between the clubs are advanced and a finalized deal is expected soon.

El adiós al Tanque Denis está ahí. En Nápoles, donde se pondrían con 12 millones de dólares, hasta le tradujeron el apodo... Al Rojo le quedarán unos 8.500.000. MARTIN MACHIAVELLO |

Seis años y algunas liras han pasado. Cerquita de Florencia, al toque de Pisa, en el desolado Stadio Porta Elisa, Germán Gustavo Denis, con la camiseta blanca y negra del Cesena, le descerrajaba el arco al Lucchese. La historia escribiría que aquel sería el primero de sus tres goles en la C1 del Calcio. Que Arezzo y que Pistoiese también lo sufrirían. Que en Italia, en el Napoli de Lavezzi y Navarro, tendrá revancha con 26 años. Ya no será el Tanque. Simplemente, será... ¡Il Carrarmato!

El Pampa Sosa ya no está en la vieja squadra de Maradona y, más allá de su falta de pasaporte comunitario, en el Sur italiano pusieron los ojos en Denis, quien debería cumplir su tercer año de contrato con Independiente aunque, desde hace rato, viene especulando con la chance de emigrar en junio, al final de este Clausura. ¿Se irá copero? Napoli, al menos, ya está clasificado para la tercera fase de la Intertoto. Y si las negociaciones continúan a este ritmo, sólo debería preocuparse por que Mirko Savini, veterano defensa, le ceda la 19.

Fueron sus 27 goles en la temporada. O tal vez, sus 37 en Independiente. Quién sabe, los 84 en su carrera (incluso, aquellos del Ascenso italiano). La cuestión fue que Pierpaolo Marino, antiguo árbitro amateur, periodista y arquero frustrado, hoy director general de los napolitanos, lo encarpetó. Y vía Jorge Cyterszpiler, agente FIFA y referencia del club en Sudaméricana, inició la caza. Ayer mismo hubo avances. "Es cierto. Están muy interesados en contratarlo. Lo conocen bien. Ya me junté con Julio (Comparada). Soy optimista. Pero, pase lo que pase, jugará con Arsenal en la última fecha", le confió a Olé el manager del punta, Leo Rodríguez, quien nunca recibió una oferta tan seria desde la propuesta del Rubin Kazan ruso.

Igual, los números, dicen, aún no cerraron. Están en consideración los avales bancarios, la forma de pago y la ficha del bomber (que sería por cinco años). Aunque la operación se acercaría a los 12 millones de dólares y a Independiente, limpios, le quedarían unos 8.500.000. La mejor venta de la era Comparada por un extra canterano aunque lejana a la pretensión de 16 palos que pregonaba en la primavera 07. Mientras, le prenderá una vela a San Genaro. Y a San Paolo. Y no será el único. Ya no habrá goles en el Porta Elisa. Tampoco en el Libertadores de América. Ciao Carrarmato...

Domestic Callup List for WC Qualifiers

The 5 remaining spots to complete the WC Qualifying squad are now official.

Basile selected the following players who will report tomorrow morning to the national team training grounds in Ezeiza.

GK - Juan Pablo Carrizo
M - Juan Roman Riquelme
M - Juan Sebastian Veron
M - Sebastian Battaglia
F - Rodrigo Palacio


The only surprise on the list, to me, is Battaglia. The current squad has Mascherano, Gago and Banega to cover the central midfield spot. I don't see the need for another player in that position but Battaglia has been playing well, in the domestic league and especially in the Copa Libertadores.

There were some rumors circulating that Martin Palermo would receive a callup but Basile chose to go with Palacio instead.

Juan Sebastian Veron has returned once again to the national team.

Solari returning to River Plate?

Is there about to be a return in mass of former River Plate players based in Europe? In addition to the rumored transfers of Roberto Ayala and Pablo Aimar, the name of Inter midfielder Santiago Solari is being mentioned too.

River Plate manager Diego Simeone, whose team won the Argentine league title yesterday, stated that he would like to have Solari on his team for next season.

clarin.com

Solari y Ayala aparecen en el futuro de River

"Los grandes jugadores siempre son bienvenidos", dijo este mediodía Diego Simeone, el técnico del campeón del Clausura 2008. "Voy a conversar con los dirigentes porque estos futbolistas pueden potenciar el plantel", explicó.

"Los grandes jugadores siempre son bienvenidos en River. Esperemos conversar en estos días con los dirigentes para comenzar a formar el plantel de cara al futuro porque está claro que el plantel tiene necesidades", dijo este mediodía Diego Simeone, el técnico campeón. A 24 horas del título, en Núñez ya miran para adelante, y Roberto Ayala y Santiago Solari, dos ex Millonarios suenan cada día con más fuerzas como posibles refuerzos.

¿Cuál es la situación de estos futbolistas? Ayala, que tiene contrato con el Zaragoza hasta 2009, no estaría motivado para jugar en la Segunda División de España. Los rumores indican que el defensor le solicitó a su representante, Gustavo Mascardi, que inicie las gestiones para el retorno. Lo del Indio es distinto. El volante tendría arreglada su desvinculación del Inter y lo único que restaría solucionar es el tema económico. "Son dos grandes jugadores que podrían potenciar el plantel", reconoció el Cholo en Radio Del Plata.

Por otra parte, Simeone aseguró que "la mayor conquista" de su cuerpo técnico fue "haberle incorporado al equipo diferentes maneras de jugar. Se puede ganar de cualquier manera y los muchachos lo entendieron". También aclaró porque se tomó los genitales en medio de los festejos: "Me los agarré para demostrar que tenemos huevos".

Inter make offer for Aguero

New Inter manager Jose Mourinho has made it known that one of the players that he wants for the 2008/09 season is Sergio Aguero. Inter has made an initial offer to Atletico of 25 million euros and the transfer of Dejan Stankovic.

The offer was rejected by Atletico but Inter president Massimo Moratti himself has gotten involved in the negotiations and has sought the assistance of Diego Maradona (who is a friend of Moratti and Aguero) to help convince Aguero in making a move to Italy.

Aguero's contract has a rescission clause that is currently set at 55 million euros.

elmundodeportivo.es

Massimo Moratti, presidente del Inter, tiene entre ceja y ceja hacerse con Agüero

Intentó convencer a Maradona, amigo personal, para que intercediera en el fichaje

Mourinho prefiere un ariete puro

Moratti está enamorado de Agüero, pero su flamante fichaje para el banquillo neroazzurro, el técnico Jose Mourinho, no lo tiene tan claro. Le gustan las cualidades del jugador argentino, pero la preferencia del preparador portugués es la de un '9' más puro que el colchonero. Mourinho desea un futbolista del tipo de Drogba, al que tuvo a sus órdenes en el Chelsea y al que extrajo un excelente rendimiento durante sus años en Londres. De esta forma, el técnico luso no le cierra las puertas del Giusseppe Meazza al Kun, pero sí que quiere asegurarse antes un delantero centro nato. Y eso, a pesar de que el Inter cuenta con uno de los mejores delanteros del continente, el sueco Ibrahimovic, y a un rematador nato, Julio Cruz, al que el Inter ha puesto el cartel de transferible para la próxima temporada. En cualquier caso, Moratti no renuncia al Kun

Francesc Aguilar - 08/06/2008 03:00

Sergio Agüero es una de las joyas del fútbol mundial. Juega en el Atlético, pero los más poderosos equipos de Europa, incluidos los de nuestra Liga, con el Barça a la cabeza y sin olvidarse del Real Madrid, no le quitan ojo. Este diario está en condiciones de asegurar que el presidente Enrique Cerezo les dejó claro a Joan Laporta y Ramón Calderón que Sergio Agüero era intocable. Los blaugrana llegaron a valorar la posibilidad de lograr la 'dupla' que está haciendo grande a Argentina (Messi y Agüero). El Madrid, directamente, necesitaba un 'galáctico' tras el 'no' de Kaká y los problemas con la llegada de Cristiano Ronaldo.

El Atleti presume de estrella al mismo tiempo que lanza el inequívoco mensaje a todo el que se acerca: "Se ve, pero no se toca". El club del Manzanares está encantado con el Kun y Sergio se encuentra muy a gusto en el Atlético de Madrid, al que quiere ayudar en su regreso a la élite.

Uno de los que suspiran por tenerlo en su plantilla es el Inter de Milán. Los dirigintes interistas ya han puesto sobre la mesa la oferta para llevarse a Sergio (25 millones de euros más Stankovic), pero se han llevado un rotundo 'no' por respuesta.

Sin embargo, el anhelo por hacerse con el colchonero les ha hecho dar una vuelta de tuerca más. Massimo Moratti, presidente del club, apeló a su amistad con Diego Armando Maradona para tratar de acercar al Kun al Inter. De todos es conocida la relación sentimental que mantiene el colchonero con Giannina, la hija menor de Diego Armando. Además, el que ha sido considerado mejor jugador de todos los tiempos se lleva muy bien con el que puede ser su futuro yerno. Y por ello, Moratti, amigo personal de Maradona, le pidió ayuda para convencer al Kun de marcharse al Inter.

Lo hizo en una comida que se celebró en Milán el día anterior a la presentación de José Mourinho como entrenador interista. Ambos hablaron de mil cosas, hasta que surgió el nombre de Sergio Agüero. Moratti le transmitió que veía al Kun preparado para dar el salto a uno de los más grandes de Europa y señaló al Inter como el destino ideal. Maradona compartió la primera parte de la afirmación, pero le dejó claro que Agüero se encuentra muy a gusto en el Atleti, donde quiere seguir creciendo.

Y si a la comodidad que siente Agüero en el Atleti sumamos, por un lado, la negativa rotunda de los dirigentes colchoneros a negociar por él, y por otro, la seriedad de la agencia de represetación del Kun (IMG), quienes sabrán trasladar al entorno del jugador la necesidad de diferenciar sentimientos con negocio, el resultado es evidente. El Inter, de todas maneras, no cejará en el empeño y, si finalmente es incapaz de de cambiar el rumbo de la situación, apelará a colocarse en la mejor posición en el hipotético caso de que Agüero, el Atleti, o ambos, decidan que salga del Manzanares.

Pero el Inter no es el único que ha desvelado su interés por Agüero. Es más, el Chelsea de Roman Abramovich se ofreció a pagar la cláusula de rescisión, 55 millones. Una situación en la que el club del Manzanares tiene poco que decir, ya que es el jugador el que debe depositar el dinero, previo acuerdo con el comprador. Pini Zahavi, agente que se cuida del 'mercato' del Chelsea, fue el encargado de llevar toda la operación, de la que estuvieron puntualmente informados el Kun y la agencia que le represetanta. La respuesta de Sergio fue similar a la que le dio Maradona a Moratti: "Estoy muy a gusto aquí y me quiero quedar en el Atleti". Que sea por muchos años.