Man City

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/902087/rafa-benitez-targets-return-to-premier-league?cc=4716

Rafa targets Premier League return

Former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez says his "priority" is 2 return 2 the Premier League when he ends his coaching hiatus.

The Spaniard has been unemployed since losing his job @ Italian champions Inter in December, & claims 2 hv had offers fr both club & international sides.

However, Benitez is keen 2 return 2 England aft spending 5 years @ Liverpool, where he won the Champions League & FA Cup b4 being sacked last summer.

Asked abt his future on BBC Radio 5 Live's Sportsweek programme, Benitez said: "The priority is the Premier League, becos the style is better 4 me.

"You can't say we will build something & spend 3, 4 or 5 years waiting 4 trophies. You hv to find the right balance, a club tat can win or try 2 win right now but @ the same time prepare 4 the future.

"At tis moment in time I don't hv any offer. B4 I did, but now I don't hv any offers. I hv had some offers abroad & some national teams, but I needed 2 stay with the family ... relax a little bit & be ready 4 the next challenge."

ManC, is he on your radar ??

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/902577/emmanuel-adebayor-would-be-happy-to-return-to-premier-league?cc=4716

Adebayor keeping options open

Emmanuel Adebayor says he would be happy 2 continue his career in the Premier League if Real Madrid do not make his loan deal permanent.

Adebayor joined Madrid on loan fr ManC in January aft failing 2 make his mark under Roberto Mancini, & he has expressed his desire 2 remain @ the Bernabeu.

However, it remains unclear whether Madrid intend 2 make an approach in the summer & Adebayor says he is keeping his options option.

"I hv been playing in England for 5 years, I had the chance 2 play in France 4 a couple of years, so it is a good time 4 me 2 play in Spain," he said. "If I hv the chance 2 go back 2 England 1 day, why not?

"I will never throw England away. I love the football, I love the atmosphere, but don't get me wrong - I'm very happy where I m.

"The future will show where I go but, 4 now, I m just happy 2 be on the football pitch again, playing football. Tat's all tat matters now. We will talk in the summer abt wat I m going 2 do abt my career."

Adebayor again stressed tat he feels he is loved @ Madrid & said he felt the same fr the Arsenal fans.

"When I 1st joined ManC, I was very happy. At the beginning, everything started very well. I was pleased, I was playing & I was scoring goals.

"Suddenly we had a game against Arsenal & you all know wat happened. Fr then it went downhill 4 me. It was a difficult moment 4 me. We changed the bosses: Mark Hughes left, Roberto Mancini came along & it was even more difficult.

"But 2day the difference betw leaving Arsenal & going 2 Manchester is tat @ Arsenal the fans loved me. I think even 2day they love me.

"When I come 2 Madrid, I feel the same atmosphere. I feel the fans love me here as well."

Despite his feeling tat he was never able 2 win over the City fans, Adebayor insists he has no regrets over the move but stressed tat he found it difficult 2 accept tat Arsene Wenger had agreed 2 sell him.

"It was a tough moment when the club asked me 2 leave," he said. "It was the most difficult moment in my life because when I grew up my dream was 1 day 2 play 4 & stay @ Arsenal & all my dreams stopped there.

"I did not go beyond Arsenal. I know there r a lot of bigger clubs than Arsenal, but it was my dream because my hero played there, Nwankwo Kanu, so my dream was 2 play 4 them as long as possible.

"But when I came back fr holidays & they told me tat I had 2 leave the club, it was very difficult 4 me. Aft that, there was interest fr ManC in me, so I went there. I was very happy."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/902523/silvio-berlusconi:-mario-balotelli-not-suitable-for-ac-milan?cc=4716

Berlusconi not keen on Balotelli

AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi has said tat he is not keen 2 sign Mario Balotelli due 2 the 4ward's behaviour.

Balotelli, a Milan supporter, has been strongly linked with a move 2 the Rossoneri since leaving Inter 4 ManC in the summer.

However, Balotelli has continued 2 attract negative headlines 4 his antics on & off the field & he was recently dropped fr the Italy squad 4 breaking Cesare Prandelli's code of conduct.

Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani refused 2 rule out a move 4 the 4ward last week - "We'll see in the future," he said - but Berlusconi has now indicated tat there will be no approach.

"There is a Milan style of behaviour tat I don't think is very close 2 tat of Balotelli," he said. "He's a lovely lad who every now & then has a bit of a distraction, let's put it tat way. I don't think his style suits us."

Meanwhile, Galliani believes Gennaro Gattuso will still be @ the club next season.

Russian side Anzhi r said 2 be interested in the 33-year-old, but Galliani told Corriere dello Sport: "I don't think he will leave. He has a contract with us 4 another season, & hence, he is not a free agent.

"Should a big offer arrive fr the Russians, we will listen 2 it. However, I don't think he will go there. I think he will remain with us."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/903338/shaun-wright-phillips-wants-to-finish-career-at-manchester-city?cc=4716

SWP wants to finish career at City

Shaun Wright-Phillips says he would be happy 2 end his career @ ManC.

The winger joined the Blues as a 16-year-old & has remained with them ever since, with the exception of 3 difficult seasons @ Chelsea.

Now 29, it has appeared Wright-Phillips would be looking 4 another club in the summer, aft failing 2 totally convince manager Roberto Mancini tat he can make an impact on the very highest stage.

Indeed, he attracted interest fr both Bolton Wanderers & Fulham during the January transfer window b4 eventually staying @ Eastlands aft Adam Johnson suffered an injury.

Wright-Phillips, though, is refusing 2 accept a departure is inevitable. Knowing how popular he is amongst the Eastlands faithful, he has vowed 2 put everything in2 his fight 2 remain at the club.

"It feels like I am part of the furniture here,'' he told the club's official website. "I would love 2 retire a City player & I hv my fingers crossed it is something tat can still happen.

"When I did leave in 2005, I broke down crying on the way 2 sign 4 Chelsea, but back then, we needed the money my sale brought in. The fans didn't even turn their back on me then. They always give me a brilliant reception & I can't explain how good tat feels.''

Wright-Phillips has endured European campaigns, promotions & relegations with the Blues. However, he has never played 4 them in the Champions League & he has never won any meaningful silverware either.

Both r distinct possibilities over the next few months, with a tricky trip 2 Liverpool due 2 be negotiated on Monday b4 tat momentous FA Cup semi-final with ManU @ Wembley.

Given the number of times they hv lost out 2 the Red Devils in close contests recently, there is a feeling amongst the Blues faithful tat this could be their turn. But Wright-Phillips is not looking on tat single game as a possible triumph in itself.

He realises a 1st cup final appearance since 1981 would mean nothing if City failed 2 overcome either Stoke or Bolton in the final.

"I 1 2 fulfil a lifelong dream & help win a trophy 4 our fans,'' he said. "I wouldn't just 1 2 beat United & then lose in the final - we need 2 get 2 the final & win it. If I could play even a small part of making tat happen, I would be a happy man.''


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/903357/emmanuel-adebayor-seeks-permanent-real-madrid-deal?cc=4716

Adebayor seeks permanent Real deal

On-loan Real Madrid striker Emmanuel Adebayor has revealed he 1s 2 make a permanent switch 2 the Bernabeu tis summer.

Adebayor boosted his chances of earning a full-time deal by scoring twice in Real's 4-0 Champions League demolition of Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday, having previously netted just 1s in La Liga 4 Jose Mourinho's side.

The 27-year-old, who joined City for £25 million fr Arsenal in 2009, moved 2 Spain in January aft finding his 1st-team opportunities limited at Eastlands, making 2 starts tis season under Roberto Mancini.

"At the the moment I m enjoying myself & @ the end of the season I will see wat happens," Adebayor said. "I'm not under pressure @ all, & @ the end of the day I still hv a contract with ManC.

"My main aim is 2 play football, & I'm here, I'm playing, I'm very happy. Yes, I would love 2 stay here, but you never know in football wat will happen next."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/906109/arsenal-star-jack-wilshere-dismisses-manchester-city-rumours?cc=4716

Wilshere committed to Arsenal

Jack Wilshere has scotched suggestions tat he is willing 2 leave Arsenal 4 a big-money move 2 Premier League rivals ManC.

Wilshere, 19, has recently been linked with a lucrative transfer 2 the Eastlands outfit. Reports @ the weekend suggested big-spending City were willing 2 splash £40 million on the talented playmaker & double his wages in their pursuit of major silverware.

Wilshere, who has graduated 2 the Arsenal 1st team fr the club's academy ranks, has rubbished such claims, however, on his Twitter page.

"People asking if im going city? I dont kiss the Arsenal badge then leave tis club in my heart!'' Wilshere wrote while also attaching a picture of him kissing the Gunners badge during a game.

Wilshere signed a long-term deal 2 remain @ the Emirates Stadium in November. He has established himself as 1 of the most talented young English players in recent times & made his international debut against Hungary last summer.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/906797/manchester-city's-carlos-tevez-will-be-out-for-up-to-four-weeks?cc=4716

Tevez blow gives Mancini 'big problem'

Roberto Mancini has revealed Carlos Tevez could be out 4 up 2 4 weeks aft sustaining a hamstring injury during Monday's 3-0 defeat @ Liverpool.

The news means ManC will be w/o their captain 4 Saturday's FA Cup semi-final against ManU.

Mancini had initially said he expected Tevez 2 be out 4 a fortnight aft he was substituted in the 1st half @ Anfield, but it now appears likely the 4ward will struggle 2 return b4 City's penultimate Premier League game against Stoke on May 14.

"Tevez is not available 4 Saturday," Mancini said. "I think he will recover in 3 or 4 weeks. It is a big problem but we can't take any risks. We hv 6 games left & hopefully we can get Carlos back 4 the last 2 or 3 games."

Mancini is now encouraging Mario Balotelli & Edin Dzeko 2 seize the opportunity.

Balotelli has shown signs of his quality since his summer move fr Inter & has scored 10 goals in all competitions, but he has also attracted criticism 4 his work-rate & off-field behaviour. Dzeko, meanwhile, has not yet scored a Premier League goal, although he has scored 1s in the FA Cup against Notts County & twice in the Europa League against Aris Salonika.

"I still hv 2 decide wat 2 do [in the semi-final], but both players know tis is an important chance 4 them," Mancini said. "Every player knows tis is an important moment 4 the club. If we win, we can go 2 a final, so every player will give 100%."

In defence, City will @ least be boosted by the return of Micah Richards, who was back in training on Wednesday aft suffering a hamstring injury last month.

"Micah Richards is available," Mancini said. "He trained 2 days ago & again yesterday. He will be okay."


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/906864/real-madrid-boss-jose-mourinho-rules-out-manchester-city-switch?cc=4716

Mourinho rules out City

Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho says there is no chance he will take charge @ ManC & played down talk of Cristiano Ronaldo joining AC Milan.

Roberto Mancini's position @ Eastlands has come under scrutiny as City battle 2 secure Champions League football 4 next season, & Mourinho - who has repeatedly spoken of his desire 2 return 2 England - has been touted as a possible successor.

Mourinho, though, has said he intends 2 remain in charge @ Madrid next season "unless the press sacks me" & has ruled out City, saying: "4 me 2 ManC, I say it is impossible."

He was more equivocal when asked about AC Milan owner Silvio Berlusconi's claims tat he will try 2 take Ronaldo 2 the San Siro next season, although the deal still appears highly unlikely.

Mourinho said: "I'm not saying it's impossible, becos in football you never know, & Berlusconi can make a crazy offer, but it must be a crazy offer becos Real don't 1 2 sell Cristiano Ronaldo."

FIFA agent Ernesto Bronzetti believes there is no prospect of Ronaldo leaving the Bernabeu in the imminent future.

"Florentino Perez has absolutely no desire 2 sell Cristiano Ronaldo," he said. "Maybe in a few years' time he could as anything is possible, but not now."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/907123/paul-scholes:-manhester-city-lack-united's-belief?cc=4716

Scholes: City lack our belief

Paul Scholes has claimed ManU hold a mental edge over their neighbours City & tat their FA Cup opponents' big spending has only spurred United 2 1 2 beat them more.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's semi-final @ Wembley, Scholes said United's superior belief is wat has helped them maintain a strong record over City despite the millions injected in recent years by their wealthy Arab owners.

Referring 2 the fact City hv only beaten United once in 8 attempts under the Abu Dhabi United Group's ownership, Scholes said: "They will be pissed off abt tat. Even then, tat game was a 1st leg, with us having another game 2 make up 4 it.

"We hv made a habit of nicking games in the last minute. I've done it, Michael Owen's done it, Wayne [Rooney] did it last season &, again, with his unbelievable goal in the league tis season. That's the diff betw the 2 teams. We hv a belief tat we can beat anybody, but if City hv tat, I'm not 2 sure."

And Scholes, who has been scoring goals against City since they were much less of a threat 2 United's trophy-winning aspirations, believes tat United enter today's derbies with a new vigour based on a desire 2 put their rivals in their place.

"[The $ has] helped us a bit," he said. "It has spurred us on when we hv played them. It has made us concentrate a little bit more than we normally would against them."

But despite tat, Scholes refuses 2 consider City 2 be a "main rival" 2 United until they end their trophy drought. "When they r 4th or 5th, or wherever they r in the league, I don't think they can be classed as a main rival. Our main rivals r obviously Arsenal & Chelsea. I think City r just a rival becos of where they r [geographically], & Liverpool the same."

Scholes is in confident mood ahead of Saturday's blockbuster. He praised the form of his team-mates in their 3-1 aggregate defeat of Chelsea in their Champions League quarter-final & stated tat City will be much less of a threat without captain & top-scorer Carlos Tevez, who has a hamstring injury.

He said: "Tevez is definitely their talisman. As much as Wayne is a top player & has come back in2 unbelievable form in recent weeks, without Wayne, we can bring in our top scorer, Dimitar Berbatov. Wat k City do? I'm not so sure. Dzeko hasn't adapted yet, but it takes time."

So confident is Scholes tat he even dropped the 'T' word: "I never really thought abt the Treble until tis week, but we're in the semi-finals in Europe now, the semi-final of the FA Cup & we're 7 points clear in the league. But just as you start 2 think abt a Treble, it can easily be taken away by 1 game on Saturday & we're desperate not 2 lose 2 City."

Scholes speculated tat Saturday's clash could be his last derby, although he insisted a decision on whether he will play on aft tis season will wait until the summer.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/907297/man-city-boss-roberto-mancini-feels-first-trophy-is-the-hardest?cc=4716

Mancini desperate to end trophy drought

ManC boss Roberto Mancini has said "the 1st trophy is the hardest 1 2 win" as he seeks 2 end the club's long trophy drought.

City hv not won a trophy since the League Cup in 1976 but, given the vast investment in the squad in recent times, expectations r growing.

Their hopes will be boosted substantially if they can defeat ManU @ Wembley in Saturday's FA Cup semi-final, though, & Mancini believes winning the competition could pave the way 2 regular success in the future.

"The 1st trophy is the hardest 1 2 win," he said. "It doesn't depend on the $ you spend. Every top club should spend $, but it is important 2 win a title. For tis I think if we go in2 the final, we can change everything."

Sir Alex Ferguson had been under pressure @ Old Trafford when he lifted the FA Cup in 1990, 4 years aft his arrival @ the club.

"It took Ferguson 7 years 2 win the league," Mancini said. "2day is very different fr 25 years ago. 2day if you r a manager who wins nothing for 6 or 7 years, it is difficult.

"Aft 15 months I m very happy in my job becos I know how difficult it is 2 build a team 2 win trophies."

He added: "I hv respect 4 ManU becos they hv won everything 4 many years. To begin with, they won a single trophy aft a long time with nothing. Now we r in the same position.

"We can go on 2 do wat United hv done. We hv a chance 2morrow & 4 tis we should be happy."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/907548/roberto-mancini:-cup-coup-could-lead-to-title-triumph?cc=4716

Mancini: Cup could lead to title triumph

Roberto Mancini believes winning the FA Cup could be the springboard 2 a title triumph next season 4 ManC.

Mancini's side face ManU in Saturday's semi-final, with either Stoke or Bolton awaiting in the final @ Wembley.

The Italian won the Coppa Italia in his 1st season @ Inter b4 going on 2 secure successive league titles, & he is confident cup success could also spur City on2 greater feats.

"I can see us winning the title next year," Mancini told The Sun. "If we win the FA Cup tis year or get in the final & get in the Champions League, then tat will give us a massive push, we will be flying. 1s you get tat 1st success you hv the winning mentality.

"I can see the same thing happening here as @ Inter if I m given time. Anything can happen if you don't win, every club can change its manager. But every time you change a manager you r just starting again, every time.

"I knew tis job would be very difficult. When you win every1 gets recognition, when you lose only 1 man is responsible. But I love football, I love tis job & I m sure ManC can be a top team."

Inter did not win the UCL under him.
Inter won the UCL under The Special One.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=315329&cc=4716

Toure hits winner, Scholes off

Paul Scholes was sent off as ManC ended ManU's treble bid by booking their 1st FA Cup final appearance since 1981.

Man-of-the-Match Yaya Toure was City's 2nd-half matchwinner, seizing on a catastrophic blunder by Michael Carrick b4 finishing smartly past Edwin van der Sar.

Roberto Mancini's men just abt deserved it 2 aft surviving an early pummelling & 2 glorious opportunities 4 Dimitar Berbatov.

Their task was made easier when Scholes departed though, dismissed 4 a thigh-high studs-1st lunge on Pablo Zabaleta.

It means there will be no repeat of 1999 for United, who must concentrate on their bid 4 glory in the Premier League & Champions League.

City, watched by chairman Khaldoon al-Mubarak, hv the chance 2 "change history'' as Mancini has demanded, & will return 2 Wembley on May 14 to face either Bolton or Stoke looking 2 collect their 1st trophy in 35 years.

Unfortunately, firebrand Mario Balotelli threatened 2 put a dampener on celebrations when he unwisely rejoiced in front of the United fans, triggering a shoving match with Anderson & an angry reaction fr Rio Ferdinand - who also squared up 2 City coach David Platt.

The current Premier League leaders took a stranglehold on the contest as soon as the polite opening exchanges had been completed.

Tat the Red Devils did not go in front during tat prolonged period of dominance was due 2 a magnificent save fr Joe Hart & a moment 2 4get 4 Berbatov.

Challenged 2 respond 2 the startling emergence of Javier Hernandez by his manager, the City goal 1st opened up 4 Berbatov when Carrick intercepted a Gareth Barry pass & began a fabulous 1-touch move tat involved Scholes & Park Ji-sung.

The Bulgarian found himself 1-on-1 with the outstanding Hart & went 4 the bottom corner. The England goalkeeper won.

United quickly retrieved possession & when Nani gave Zabaleta the slip, his low cross invited the close range finish. However, the man who had found the net 4 United 22 times tis season scooped over fr inside the 6-yard box.

Nemanja Vidic turned an Antonio Valencia corner wide & Berbatov looped a far-post header just over as City's defence continued 2 creak without snapping completely.

It was half an hour b4 City managed 2 push their opponents back & make them do some defending of their own.

Although he had been close 2 non-existent aft being handed the job of filling the massive gap created by Carlos Tevez's hamstring injury, Balotelli eventually burst in2 life, letting fly with a rasping 30-yard drive Van der Sar touched over.

Had Balotelli got on the end of Adam Johnson's corner shortly afterwards, United would hv been in trouble.

As it was, the ball floated over the Italian 2 Joleon Lescott, who could not keep his 1st-time volley down.

Blues skipper Vincent Kompany curled a 20-yard effort just wide as half-time approached, then Balotelli failed 2 keep a near-post effort on target immediately aft the break.

However, they were not abt 2 let United off the hook in the manner Berbatov had done earlier.

Toure needed the assistance of a woeful attempt 2 find Scholes by Carrick. But once the Ivorian had been invited in2 the Red Devils' box, he finished in style, beating Van der Sar with a low shot thru the veteran Dutchman's legs.

Now it was United's turn 2 wobble, just as they did in the Carling Cup semi-final 15 months ago.

On tat occasion, Mancini failed 2 seize the initiative, settling 4 wat he had in the 1st leg & watching his team swept aside in the 2nd.

They didn't hv Toure then, or David Silva.

It was the Spain star who crossed 2 present Lescott with another golden opportunity, which the England defender headed wide.

Given Ferguson compared the striker 2 Gary Lineker yesterday, it was not a surprise Javier Hernandez was asked 2 complete a salvage mission.

When the Mexican was introduced, United already had the free-kick tat Hart pushed on2 the bar as Nani went 4 the roof of City's net.

The comeback powers of Ferguson's team r the stuff of legend. Scholes' awful challenge on Zabaleta presented a challenge even they were up against it.

Carrick tried 2 atone 4 his blunder with a curling shot & Park attempted 2 steer a header 2wards goal but on neither occasion was Hart troubled 2 make the save.

As valiant as United's 10-men fought, City came closer 2 increasing their lead thru Balotelli @ the end.

It didn't matter & now the door 2 glory stands ajar 4 Mancini's men.

Hart calm despite City win

ManC goalkeeper Joe Hart enjoyed the triumphant celebrations @ Wembley but there was a word of caution fr the England international alongside the joy.

"It means the world, just look @ us,'' said Hart aft a match. "The boys r over the moon, the fans r over the moon & the staff r over the moon but we've won nothing yet.''

Hart told ITV1: "We've done nothing yet but we've got ourselves in a good position in the league & in the final & I'm so happy 4 the people (fans) here.''

Turning 2 Toure's goal, coming on the back of a Michael Carrick error, Hart said: "It was a fantastic goal, he was fired up @ half-time. He's an emotional guy & he lets his emotion show on the pitch.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/908702/roberto-mancini-hits-back-at-critics-of-big-spending-city?cc=4716

Mancini hits back at City critics

Roberto Mancini has hit back @ critics of ManC's transfer policy, claiming his Premier League rivals hv also spent big & tat City r still looking 2 build a squad by signing young players.

Mancini claimed ManC r being unfairly vilified 4 buying their way in2 the footballing elite aft their £300million splurge put them on the brink of a 1st trophy in 35 years. City became the richest club in the world overnite when Sheik Mansour took them over 2-&-a-half years ago & hv since embarked on a spending spree unprecedented in the history of the game.

Tat investment will begin 2 pay off if City win next month's FA Cup final, which they reached aft beating arch-rivals ManU @ Wembley on Saturday. But it has also fostered resentment among supporters of other clubs, something manager Mancini insists is unjustified. Pointing out Chelsea & United had also paid huge transfer fees in pursuit of success, Mancini argued there was more negativity 2wards City's spending.

He added: "Many times I've been asked abt our spending but we didn't buy Cristiano Ronaldo, (Lionel) Messi. We bought young players, good players.''

Mancini, who spent around £125million last summer alone, added: "All these players need 2 improve becos it's the 1st year they're playing in the Barclays Premier League. If I'm not mistaken, many years ago when fantastic players came to England, like (Eric) Cantona, @ the start it was difficult.''

Of City's starting XI on Saturday, only goalkeeper Joe Hart had been @ the club 4 more than 3 years, while several had been signed in the last 15 months. But with vast sums of money @ stake, Mancini has been under pressure 2 bring instant success 2 Eastlands, with Champions League football next season the minimum requirement. Mancini is adamant City will finish in the top 4 & reiterated his claim winning the FA Cup could inspire a Premier League title push next term.

But he added: "The manager, I think, needs time becos, in 1 year, you can't build a strong team. It's important tat you improve every week.''

City certainly did tat on Saturday aft their embarrassing Premier League defeat @ Liverpool 5 days earlier. They also cleared a huge psychological hurdle, having not reached a cup final for 30 years & doing so with a victory over their fiercest rivals.

Mancini said: "Our mentality will be more strong becos we beat United - & United played with their best team. (They were) without (Wayne) Rooney, but we played without (Carlos) Tevez. You can win against them only if you play very strong, you play very concentrated. If not, it's a difficult day. They win becos they hv more experience. But now, if we work, we can arrive very, very close 2 them.''

He added: "The final will be harder becos probably we will go in the final & we r fav. In 90 mins, anything can happen. If we play with the same spirit, we can win. If not, we don't win.''

United fans hv a banner @ Old Trafford which is updated every year City go without winning a trophy. It recently ticked around to 35 years & Mancini said: "They can take off tis banner. We hope we can take it off tis year.''

ManC midfielder Gareth Barry says reaching the FA Cup final is "a massive moment'' 4 the club & hailed the "perfect" team performance.

Barry, 30, said: "It is a massive moment 4 the club 2 reach the final. It has been a long wait. So it is important now tat we win it. The next game is going 2 be just as tough, with the pressure maybe more on us. It is about winning tat 1st trophy. It was mentioned @ the beginning of the season. If we can win tat trophy, then maybe more will follow. The 1st 1 is always the most difficult 1.''

Barry insists the result proves the players r united despite various training ground bust-ups.

"There were a few great individual performances but it was the perfect team performance, '' he said. "We all stuck 2gether, as you hv 2 do 2 beat ManU. Hopefully tat will show we r 2gether as a group. Maybe we did show United a bit 2 much respect initially. They played their typical way, dominated the game, but as the match went on we grew in confidence. We created a couple of chances @ the end of the 1st half & took tat momentum in2 the 2nd half. As the match went on, we grew.''

Barry refused 2 be drawn on recent comments by Joey Barton in which the Newcastle midfielder ridiculed him as "a teacher's pet''.

He said: "You approach every game trying 2 do your best. I always do. If you get criticism, you get criticism. That's the game. You try & respond 2 it. I always give 100%. If it's good enough, you get selected again. If it's not... I don't really want 2 speak abt another professional, positive or negative.''

United were reduced to 10 men in the 72nd min when veteran midfielder Paul Scholes was sent off 4 a lunge @ Pablo Zabaleta. Barry admitted the former England international's dismissal gave them a lift.

"It helped helped us massively, maybe the end of the 2nd half would hv been different otherwise, '' he said. "But we ended the game strongly & professionally. We saw it out. They had a couple of half-chances but 2 keep United out with a clean sheet is a great achievement. We've seen how many times over the years they've scored late on.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/909811/roberto-mancini-confident-of-manchester-city-finishing-in-top-four?cc=4716

Mancini confident over top four

Roberto Mancini remains confident ManC can qualify 4 next season's Champions League following Tottenham's 3-3 draw with Arsenal.

Rafael van der Vaart's late equaliser saw Spurs snatch a point @ White Hart Lane 2 all but end Arsenal's title hopes, but a victory against their rivals would hv seen them go level on points with City.

Spurs travel 2 Eastlands next month where victory would put Tottenham firmly back in the race 4 Europe's premier competition, but Mancini knows his side hold their fate in their own hands.

"When it went 3-1 it was better 4 us but 3-3 is a good result," Mancini said of the result in the North London derby. "Everything is in our hands - we r not dependent on Tottenham or other teams. If we win our games we go in the Champions League."

City remain on course 4 their 1st silverware since 1976 & will play their FA Cup final opponents Stoke 3 days later in the league.

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has appealed 4 the match 2 be moved, claiming a conflict of interest - if City win the FA Cup & qualify 4 the Champions League, Stoke will secure Europa League football 4 next season, but Mancini insists it will not be an issue.

"I hv respect 4 every opinion but I hv never seen 1 team tat doesn't play a game @ 100% - that is impossible," Mancini said.

Meanwhile, Mancini is optimistic Carlos Tevez will recover fr his hamstring strain in time 4 the FA Cup final. "I hope Carlos can recover on time as we hv 4 weeks," he said.

ManC's remaining EPL games r:
Apr 25 away vs Blackburn Rovers,
May 1 @ home vs West Ham United,
May 7 away vs Everton,
May 10 @ home vs Tottenham Hotspur,
May 17 @ home vs Stoke City City &
May 22 away vs Bolton Wanderers.

[average jOe]

Top 4?

Maybe not this season.

For me, a change of manager is imminent.

Take what u read with a pinch of salt. Soccer players, managers or even directors had been infamous with what they said. Most of what they said are rehearsed.

They are most cosistent with their perpetual promises that they can't fullfiled.

Man City had already spent so much money, and I think the owners will be looking for instant dividends. Patience is not their forte.

They might have just won something but qualification for champion league football will be the yardstick by which how the manager will be judged.

[joew2005]

it ain't over till it's over.
there r still 6 games remaining.
top 4,maybe ... maybe not ...

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/909455/mancini-may-have-to-wait-for-manchester-city-vindication?cc=4716

Mancini may have to wait for vindication

Many times I've been asked abt our spending but we didn't buy CR, Messi. We bought young players, good players." - Roberto Mancini, April 16

Victories offer almost limitless levels of vindication 4 managers. When they come against the club's fiercest rivals, setting up the opportunity of a 1st trophy for 35 years & r delivered by 1 of his own signings, tat sense is exacerbated. Yaya Toure's FA Cup semi-final winner against ManU may prove 2 be the goal tat saves Mancini's job; it also could be deemed the most important in ManC's recent history.

Yet 2 use tat as proof tat City hv spent well over the last 12 months is a leap tat closer analysis does not support. In 1 sense Mancini is fighting a losing battle in any argument; prices mushroom the moment City enter the bidding so criticism is a constant. But Sheikh Mansour's wealth means tat value 4 money does not need 2 rank highly among the criteria 4 a signing.

Even if they r judged purely on their performances on the pitch, however, City's recent recruitment is not particularly distinguished. In the last 12 months, 7 1st-team players hv arrived @ Eastlands 4 a combined cost of £145 million. Only 1 can be described as an unqualified success: David Silva.

The Spaniard is a wonderful talent, a classy creator who can make the difficult appear simple. Quietly, he has become integral - indeed, there is the sense tat Silva's skills haven't received enough recognition fr impartial observers. In a team which can be 2 functional, he is the welcome exception, & Carlos Tevez's supplier-in-chief.

Yet as Silva is a WC winner & an even more prominent member of Spain's Euro 2008 champions, a question can be posed: how hard is it really, when money is no object, 2 identify players of such prowess? Here the answer is provided, 2 varying degrees, by the other additions: tougher than might be imagined.

Yaya Toure is 1 who divides opinion. Mancini's reinvention of the forceful Ivorian paid dividends @ Wembley, but 4 some of the season he has seemed miscast as an attacking midfielder, a bulldozer employed in a role more suitable 4 a classic car. He has provided some unexpectedly delicate passes 2 accompany his 10 goals yet his deployment seems a defensive gambit tat often does not pay off.

Aleksandar Kolarov is another who is neither triumph nor disaster, but lingers somewhere in betw. The Serb is a dogged competitor with a ferociously eye-catching shot but his lack of pace means Mancini sometimes favours the more dependable Pablo Zabaleta @ left back. Ignore Kolarov's £16 million fee & the requirement was 4 a player who ranked among the division's 3 or 4 best in his position. At the moment, Kolarov does not meet the criteria 2 be regarded @ tat level.

He is nevertheless much City's best defensive buy of the last 12 months. Jerome Boateng was Germany's regular left back in the WC & seemed 2 hv arrived as City's preferred option on the right. Instead, aft an injury-hit year, he appears 2 hv been leapfrogged in the pecking order by both Zabaleta & Micah Richards.

If anything, James Milner has been still more underwhelming. He may be able 2 empathise with Toure's troubles while envying the Ivorian. His final year @ Aston Villa convinced the Englishman he is a box-2-box midfielder, the role Mancini saves 4 Toure. Yet 4 1 who has excelled on either flank b4, Milner has been unimpressive in his old day job as a winger. His presence on the bench rarely merits a mention now.

Nor 4 1 who joined so recently, does tat of Edin Dzeko. The £27 million 4ward's 15 games hv only brought 4 goals; 2 against a Notts County side near the foot of League 1 & 2 versus Aris Salonika, who appeared little better. Like 5 of the other 6 newcomers, Dzeko was an import who, by definition, could need time 2 acclimatise 2 English football. Like Kolarov & Toure, however, he possesses a physicality & a style of play 2 suggest a seamless integration might hv been possible. Instead, it has not. Then, most controversially of all, there is Mario Balotelli. Ignore some of the more lurid headlines abt City's enfant terrible & a record of 10 goals in 24 games appears respectable; none, however, has come against top-8 opponents & his culpability in their Europa League exit 2 Dynamo Kiev, a dismissal tat provided a prime example of why he has more cards than goals, means tat Balotelli has more in the debit than the credit column.

And he, more than any of the others, was definitely Mancini's choice. While the recipients of praise & blame can be debated - Milner, 4 instance, appears the preference of City's football administration officer Brian Marwood while Toure was 1st identified in Mark Hughes' time as manager - only 2 of the 7, Silva & Toure, r even assured of a place in the strongest side. They may be young, good players - though when 1 is 27 & 4 more 25, the definition of youthful has been stretched - but they r no Ronaldos or Messis. Only Silva comes remotely close 2 tat category of player.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/911622/mario-balotelli-driving-city-mad-with-fines?cc=4716

Balotelli driving City mad with fines

ManC striker Mario Balotelli is evidently having as much trouble parking his car as he has putting on a bib, as it has been revealed tat his luxury Maserati has been impounded 27 times since his arrival in England.

A report in the Sun has claimed tat Balotelli has racked up nearly £10,000 in fines, with an average of 3 parking tickets per day arriving due 2 his lack of parking nous.

A source @ the club told the paper: "Mario will drive fr his luxury apartment 2 a restaurant a few streets away & leave the car on double yellows. The other week the Maserati misfired so he just abandoned it. Staff hv had 2 bail it out 27 times.

"The valet the club uses empties the glove box of tickets every time he cleans it. Mario doesn't seem 2 care. It's a drop in the ocean 2 him.

"Mario was pulled over by the police & he had £25,000 cash on the passenger seat. They asked him why & he said, 'Because I can'. He doesn't care much 4 authority."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/912838/man-city's-roberto-mancini-plays-down-juventus-speculation?cc=4716

Mancini plays down Juve talk

Roberto Mancini has stressed tat he 1s 2 remain @ ManC amid reports he will take charge of Juventus in the summer.

Juve hv confirmed Gigi Del Neri's position will be reviewed @ the end of the season with the club currently 7th in Serie A, & there has been speculation tat Mancini is under consideration.

With City currently on course 2 secure Champions League football next season & having reached the FA Cup final, there appears 2 be little reason 4 City 2 axe Mancini, & the Italian said @ his press conference on Thursday tat he intended 2 stay @ Eastlands.

"It's normal in England & Italy tat there r reports in the last 2 or 3 months of the season saying every player or manager can change team, & we can say every day it's not true," he said. "If it's down 2 me, I will stay here."

Juve legend Marco Tardelli had said earlier tis week tat he did not believe Mancini would 1 2 move 2 Turin.

"Now it's difficult 2 find anyone 2 replace Del Neri," he told Radio Sportiva. "Mancini is happy in England & I don't think he can accept the Bianconeri's offer. He won't come 2 Turin.

"Besides, Del Neri cannot shoulder all the blame, as it must be shared out betw many people. If you remove Alessandro Del Piero & Gigi Buffon, Juve hv no world-class players.

"Del Neri made mistakes, but the squad @ his disposal was not worthy of a title race, certainly not on a par with Milan & Inter. It's difficult 2 judge his work in these circumstances."


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/909468/juventus-cool-on-roberto-mancini-link?cc=4716

Juventus cool on Roberto Mancini link

Juventus general manager Giuseppe Marotta has confessed he is an admirer of Luka Modric, & he has played down a recent meeting with the agent of Roberto Mancini.

Marotta sparked speculation over a summer move by Juventus 4 ManC boss Mancini, aft he met with agent Giorgio De Giorgis. Juve r currently 7th in Serie A under Luigi Del Neri, & it was reported tat The Old Lady were considering a move 4 former Inter coach Mancini.

However, Marotta insists everything was abv board, commenting 2 Sky Sports Italia: "I met Giorgio De Giorgis, but we just chatted abt football in general.

"Even abt Roberto Mancini? No, Mancini has a contract with City & we talked with De Giorgis abt players."

Those conversations r likely 2 hv included Tottenham schemer Modric, among others, with Marotta admitting the Croatian is a player admired by Juventus.

"[Stephan] Lichtsteiner? We like him," Marotta told Corriere dello Sport. "Modric? He's an interesting footballer but we r following many players.

"Neymar & [Carlos] Tevez? They r 2 great players tat every1 1s, including Juventus, but we must consider the economic aspects. On Neymar there is a strong interest of Chelsea."

Spurs go in2 Wednesday's clash with Arsenal knowing they must win 2 put pressure on ManC in the race 4 Champions League qualification. And goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes recently admitted he fears Modric will leave if the club cannot offer top-level European competition next season.

"It's important we qualify 4 the Champions League again becos we know it won't be easy 2 keep players like [Gareth] Bale & Modric," Gomes said. "But the club thinks big & 1s 2 keep the best. Spurs will do their best 2 keep them."

1 player who looks set 4 a switch 2 Turin when the transfer window reopens is Lyon's Michel Bastos, with the Brazilian's agent dismissing rumours he would reject a move 2 Juve if they failed 2 qualify 4 the Champions League.

"Juventus do not need 2 be worried abt these rumours," he told Tuttosport. "The prospect of playing in the Italian league & meeting teams such as Inter & AC Milan twice per year is more important 4 Michel than playing in the Champions League.

"It's just a matter of waiting 4 us now. The directors of both clubs hv yet 2 talk. I don't expect there 2 be any problems though. Lyon hv told us tat they're willing 2 open talks & 2 cash in on Michel."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=293139&cc=4716

De Jong strikes as City sink Hammers

ManC kept themselves firmly on course 4 Champions League qualification with victory over West Ham @ Eastlands.

City were 2-0 up within the opening 15 minutes, Nigel de Jong powering home his 1st goal 4 the club & then Pablo Zabaleta guiding a shot on target beyond Robert Green which Lars Jacobsen inadvertently blasted in2 the net as he attempted 2 kick the ball away.

The Hammers hit back in the 33rd minute thru Demba Ba, but it was the hosts who looked more likely 2 score another aft the break & deservedly made off with all 3 points.

The result means City consolidate their top 4 spot in the Premier League, moving 7 points clear of 5th-placed Liverpool.

West Ham, meanwhile, r still bottom of table, 3 points adrift of safety with 3 games left 2 play.

Aft the visitors had won an early corner & Danny Gabbidon sent a wild effort over fr distance, City were soon in the ascendancy & driving 4ward.

David Silva saw a shot deflect wide & fr the resulting corner, Mario Balotelli headed the wrong side of the post.

Silva then teed up Gareth Barry, who sent a shot in2 Green's arms.

At the other end, Thomas Hitzlsperger sent a free-kick in2 the box & it fell 2 James Tomkins, who could not fashion a proper shot.

Almost immediately City were back on the attack, with the lively Adam Johnson cutting inside fr the rite & hitting a low drive narrowly wide.

A minute later the hosts were in front as the Hammers failed 2 deal with Aleksandar Kolarov's corner & the ball came out 2 De Jong, who fired it in2 the corner fr outside the area.

It took another 5 mins 4 City 2 double their lead, Zabaleta playing a neat 1-2 with Silva & sending the ball across Green 2wards goal.

Jacobsen rushed in 2 try 2 make a clearance but could only fire it in2 the roof of his own net.

West Ham were looking bruised & their captain Matthew Upson - who had been involved in a collision with Balotelli - had 2 come off in the 26th minute, Manuel Da Costa the man coming on in his place.

They had a great chance 2 pull a goal back just aft the half hour mark, though, as Robbie Keane found himself thru 1-on-1 against Joe Hart.

The Irishman failed 2 make the most of the opportunity as Hart got down 2 save, but moments later the visitors did make it 2-1 thru Demba Ba.

Hitzlsperger's cross in2 the box appeared 2 be handled by Joleon Lescott, but the ball fell straight 2 Ba, who dispatched it past Hart.

West Ham looked 2 keep up the pressure but City continued 2 create chances, with Balotelli miscuing an acrobatic attempt & Adam Johnson having the final shot of the 1st half, which Green collected.

Despite De Jong having 2 be substituted 4 James Milner @ the break, City made a bright start 2 the 2nd period & Balotelli crashed a shot against the bar 10 minutes in, Yaya Toure hitting the rebound @ Green.

West Ham went close when Da Costa brought a save out of Hart with a flicked header fr a corner, but soon aft City wasted a glorious chance 2 restore their 2 goal advantage.

Having been put clean thru by Toure, Silva danced around Green & squared 2 Balotelli, who had the goal @ his mercy but saw his effort blocked on the line by James Tomkins.

Hammers boss Avram Grant then refreshed his 4ward line by replacing Keane with Carlton Cole.

Opposite number Roberto Mancini did likewise by bringing on Edin Dzeko in place of Gareth Barry & City had another good chance moments later, only 4 Silva 2 opt 2 pass when he might hv shot.

Grant threw on Victor Obinna 4 Luis Boa Morte b4 Ba struck wide, but back came City, Dzeko unleashing an attempt tat bounced off Green.

The goalkeeper then tipped a deflected Silva shot over the bar b4 Balotelli was taken off 4 Patrick Vieira.

Silva & Dzeko had further late attempts but City had done enough as referee Howard Webb confirmed their victory @ the final whistle.

After the match, ManC boss Roberto Mancini admitted his players may hv been guilty of thinking their job was done aft they took an early 2 goal lead.

It eventually turned out that they had done enough, but it could hv been more comfortable & the Italian acknowledged as much afterwards.

"At tis moment, @ the end of the season, every game is difficult & if you play against a team tat is trying 2 avoid relegation, it is very, very hard," Mancini said.

"I think we started the game very well, playing fantastic football & scoring 2 goals.

"Probably aft these 2 goals we thought it was finished, but it never is until the referee blows the final whistle."

The result means 4th-placed City r 7 points clear of Liverpool - who hv played a game more - & Tottenham in the race 4 the final Champions League berth.

Mancini feels his team deserve 2 be where they r but 1s 2 see no let-up fr them until the season has come 2 an end.

"We can only relax aft May 22, not b4," said Mancini, who also confirmed tat De Jong had come off @ half-time merely as a precaution with a view 2 next weekend's clash with Everton.

"We should try 2 get the maximum number of points tat we can.

"Everything is in our hands becos 4 all the season we hv stayed @ the top betw 1st & 4th position.

"I think aft wat we hv done, we deserve 2 be in the Champions League, but we hv another 4 games - it is not finished.

"We r not under pressure, but we know we hv a big chance.

"Our target @ the start of the season was the Champions League & now, we r in a good way.

"We r in 4th position & hv 7 points over Tottenham & Liverpool, & we will play the FA Cup final (against Stoke on May 14). I think we hv done a good job up 2 now."

Although the loss was West Ham's 5th in a row & they remain bottom of the table & 3 points fr safety their manager Avram Grant is staying upbeat.

"We made a very bad start - in the 1st 20 minutes we were not in the game, they had scored 2 goals & could hv scored more," Grant said.

"We had a great comeback & showed a lot of spirit & the character of the team, & we made it 2-1 - also Robbie Keane had a big chance.

"In the 2nd half we could hv done some more, so there was a lot of positives 2 take 4 the next games, which r the most important ones."

The Hammers play Blackburn, Wigan & Sunderland in their final 3 games & Grant has set a target of @ least 7 points fr those fixtures 2 beat the drop.

"Now we play against a team tat r in our area (Blackburn), so we hv 2 win tis game," Grant said.

"I thought tat other teams would take more points in the last 2 games, so the gap stays 3 points.

"Our target is 2 take 7 points - & we will try 2 take all 9 - but we r playing against teams tat also 1 the points.

"But we believe if we use the character we hv shown in past games away against top teams, we can win games."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/914732/adam-johnson-disappointed-by-man-city-title-challenge?cc=4716

Johnson disappointed by City chase

ManC midfielder Adam Johnson admits tat he is very disappointed, aft the club's incredible spending, tat his side hv not sustained a more serious bid 4 the Premier League title.

Johnson will play a part in City's run-in tat sees them needing just 1 win fr their remaining 4 games 2 secure a place in next season's Champions League, while they can also pick up their 1st trophy for 35 years when they face Stoke in the FA Cup final on May 28.

But, aft City owner Sheikh Mansour spent more than £250 million in the transfer market, Johnson thinks tat the club should hv done better tis season.

"I'm disappointed tat we r not in there. Personally, I think we should be & a lot of neutral people think we should be with the squad we hv. But there was a couple of iffy results which we should hv won,'' he said.

"At the start of the season we wanted 2 be top 2 & having been in the top 4 all season we 1 2 keep pushing.

''We might yet finish even higher than 4th. We've just got to keep going. But tat result @ Liverpool didn't mean we thought Spurs could catch us. We knew we still had a few points on them & we've pushed tat gap 2 7, which is massive 4 us."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/915168/vincent-kompany-committed-?cc=4716

Kompany committed "long-term" to City

ManC defender Vincent Kompany 1s 2 stay @ the club 4 the rest of his career so he can remain part of the "beautiful story" unfolding @ Eastlands.

Originally signed fr Hamburg in 2008 by Mark Hughes as a midfielder who could also play in defence, Kompany has become 1 of the best centre backs in the Premier League, earning himself a place in the PFA Team of the Year.

The 25-year-old, who often captains City when Carlos Tevez is unavailable, has also been 1 of the inspirations behind City's charge 2 the FA Cup final & 2 the brink of securing a much coveted Champions League berth via a top-4 finish in the league.

"I hv made a lot of progress,'' Kompany said. "But I still hv a lot more 2 show & bring 2 tis club. I m definitely looking 4ward 2 the future & looking long-term.''

The unqualified support he receives fr the City faithful merely confirms his belief tat he is @ exactly the right place @ tis stage in his career.

"I hv never been embraced as well as I hv been here, by the fans & the country in general,'' he said. "I feel really comfortable here & I m proud 2 be a part of everything tat is happening.

"I take nothing 4 granted & work hard every day, becos I know when it happens, we should all consider ourselves lucky 2 be able 2 be part of such a beautiful story.''

Tat story will hv its next chapter once City hv cemented tat coveted top-4 spot. They will be celebrating on Saturday evening if a win @ Everton is followed by a Tottenham defeat 2 lowly Blackpool @ White Hart Lane.

More likely, it will take a result next Tuesday - & revenge - against the Spurs side tat defeated them @ Eastlands 2 take the same prize last term 2 ensure the battle does not go down 2 the final couple of matches.

"We r on course,'' Kompany said. "We hv gone a tremendous way since the takeover happened 3 years ago.

"It is a completely different club now & it would really be a great way 2 start the success story we 1 2 hv with City by achieving Champions League qualification & winning the FA Cup tis season. Tat is our target, & it becomes even more important than ever now.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/916158/man-city-boss-roberto-mancini-calls-on-owners-to-open-chequebook?cc=4716

Mancini calls for further investment

Roberto Mancini has called on the ManC owners 2 open the chequebook again & confirmed he is an admirer of Udinese's Alexis Sanchez.

Mancini has already invested heavily in the squad, bringing in Yaya Toure, David Silva, Mario Balotelli, James Milner, Aleksandar Kolarov, Jerome Boateng & Edin Dzeko in the last 12 months, but he believes City lack the strength in depth of ManU & 1s 2 spend again tis summer.

"4 us 2 stay near the top 4 a long time was good but during a moment in the season, like February or March when we played Europa League, Premier League & FA Cup, we played every 3 days," he said. "It's very difficult if you don't hv a big list of players - it's impossible 2 go on 4 the final of 3 cups & play 4 the title.

"United will play 8 or 9 different players fr the side tat played Schalke 4 the match against Chelsea. They can make these changes & still win.

"I think we hv a good team. We should improve - if we buy other players - becos when you play in the Champions League every team is strong."

City r rumoured 2 be competing with United 4 the signature of Chile winger Sanchez &, asked abt the player, Mancini said: "Sanchez is a good player."

Mancini believes it is essential City claim the FA Cup when they meet Stoke @ Wembley on May 14 if they r 2 compete with the very best.

"It's crucial 4 us 2 win the FA Cup, then next year we can improve our squad & get other players," he said. "If we 1 2 play 4 the title next season, it's very important 2 start 2 win something. Then, in the future, ManC will be a strong team in Europe."

Asked if City could win the title next season, Mancini said: "It depends on the next 8 days but I think so."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=292891&cc=4716

City come unstuck against Toffees

Superb 2nd-half headers fr Sylvain Distin & Leon Osman frustrated ManC in their Champions League quest.

The FA Cup finalists looked on course 4 a potentially decisive win in their pursuit of a Premier League top-4 place as Yaya Toure put them ahead @ Everton.

The visitors squandered several chances 2 make victory safe @ Goodison Park & were stunned when former City defender Distin equalised & in-form Osman grabbed a winner.

With David Silva @ his influential best, City seemed in little trouble as they dictated play.

Yet Everton hv become their bogey side in recent years & the Merseysiders hit back 2 win 4 the 7th time in 8 meetings.

City now face their chief rivals for 4th, Tottenham, on Tuesday knowing they cannot ease up ahead of next week's trip 2 Wembley.

Much talk b4 the game centred on Joleon Lescott's 1st return 2 Goodison since his controversial £22million move 2 City 21 months ago.

Yet it was Distin, also facing his old club, who turned the match & Osman settled it with his 4th goal in 9 games.

City left Mario Balotelli, Gareth Barry & Adam Johnson out of their line-up & talisman Carlos Tevez, as expected, did not appear.

City soon asserted themselves, although Everton had the 1st chance when Osman fired over fr a cleverly-worked Leighton Baines free-kick.

The visitors looked composed in possession with Silva exhibiting some sublime touches.

The Spaniard went close aft brilliantly controlling a hopeful punt fr Vincent Kompany & beating Tony Hibbert 2 shoot across goal.

He showed more skill when he tapped a James Milner cross in2 the 6-yard box but Patrick Vieira volleyed over.

Milner found space in the area as Everton pushed up but he opted 2 pass instead of shooting & the hosts got back 2 clear.

The respite was shortlived 4 the hosts, however, as City claimed the lead moments later, in the 28th minute.

Silva was again the orchestrator, although he benefited fr a lucky ricochet as he took the ball past Distin.

He found Toure unmarked 2 his right & the Ivory Coast international powered 4ward 2 clip the ball over Tim Howard.

Edin Dzeko tested Howard with a fierce shot fr the edge of the area aft the restart but the American gathered well.

Silva created another good chance 4 Toure when he threaded a low ball in2 the area but the former Barcelona midfielder sidefooted over.

Kompany needed 2 be alert 2 deny Jack Rodwell a shooting chance early in the 2nd half.

The ball looked 2 be rolling 2 the midfielder in the box aft a powerful Baines free-kick struck Toffees substitute Jermaine Beckford but the Belgian defender got a foot in.

City replied with a quick breakaway as Silva freed Toure but Howard stood up well & denied the advancing midfielder with his feet.

Dzeko then headed wide fr an Aleksandar Kolarov free-kick as City built more pressure.

A scuffle broke out when Kompany responded 2 a Rodwell tackle on Nigel de Jong by pushing the Everton midfielder.

Rodwell's subsequent reaction led 2 both he & Kompany being booked.

City quickly got back in2 their stride & Dzeko, looking 4 his 2nd Premier League goal, struck a firm shot wide fr the edge of the area.

The visitors paid the price 4 their profligacy as Everton equalised in the 66th minute thru Distin.

Everton had sent on Tim Cahill - scorer of 5 goals against City - just moments earlier & the Australian went straight in2 the box 4 an Arteta free-kick.

But it was Distin who did the damage, rising @ the far post 2 power a header in2 the bottom corner which Joe Hart failed 2 keep out.

The goal infused Everton with confidence & Beckford went thru.

The striker was ruled marginally offside & chipped wide anyway, but nevertheless it was a warning 4 City.

It was 1 they failed 2 heed as the Toffees grabbed a 2nd in the 72nd minute.

Neville delivered an inviting cross in2 the area & Osman timed his leap superbly, beating Kompany in the air & glancing a looping header over Hart in2 the top corner.

It almost got worse 4 City as Beckford shot straight @ Hart fr close range.

City's frustrations were perhaps evident @ the final whistle as Cahill & Kolarov appeared 2 argue with each other while Neville exchanged words with the visitors' assistant boss Brian Kidd.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/917476/nigel-de-jong:-it's-a-?cc=4716

De Jong: It's "do or die" for City

ManC midfielder Nigel De Jong is gearing up 4 a "do or die" week as the club prepare 4 a crucial Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur & the FA Cup final against Stoke City.

4th place City face 5th placed Tottenham on Tuesday night with a place in next season's UEFA Champions League @ stake. Victory 4 Roberto Mancini's side would guarantee their participation in Europe's show-piece tournament next term.

Then on Saturday, City k end a 35-year long wait 4 a trophy when they take on Stoke in the FA Cup final @ Wembley.

And De Jong admits City need to put everything into the next seven days to make sure their season is a successful one.

"This is a very important week for the club, the players and the fans. This is do or die for Manchester City," said De Jong. "Fourth place is in reach and everything is in our hands. We just have to win that game. We then have a chance to be FA Cup winners"

Mancini will make a late call on whether 2 choose skipper Carlos Tevez 4 Tuesday's pivotal encounter with Tottenham.

The South American striker was absent 4 the 4th game since injuring his hamstring @ Liverpool when he missed Saturday's defeat @ Everton but Mancini 1s Tevez 2 prove his fitness ahead of next weekend's FA Cup final.

Gareth Barry is expected 2 be available aft recovering fr wat Mancini described as "a minor problem" @ the weekend.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/917860/roberto-mancini-reveals-carlos-tevez-wanted-italy-move?cc=4716

Mancini reveals Tevez's Italy desire

ManC manager Roberto Mancini has revealed tat Carlos Tevez wanted 2 quit the club 2 join an Italian side in December.

Tevez handed in a transfer request aft becoming disillusioned with his time @ Eastlands, but reports suggested tat he wanted 2 return 2 Argentina, or quit the game altogether.

The City captain came close 2 leaving the club, but opted 2 stay & Mancini has now revealed where his preferred destination lay.

''Carlos told us back in December tat he 1s 2 go 2 Italy,'' Mancini said. ''But if he changes his mind, I would be happy.''

Tevez was said 2 1 2 be closer 2 his family & has spent time in Milan recovering fr his latest injury getting treatment fr Argentina's team doctor.

Mancini also took time 2 quash talk tat he is ready 2 leave Eastlands, aft he was suggested as a possible candidate 2 replace Luigi Del Neri @ Juventus tis summer.

He told Gazzetta dello Sport: ''I hv not received any offers & in any case my priority is 2 achieve our stated aims with City in order 2 stay here & fight 4 the league title next season. I hv a good team already but we will bring reinforcements.''


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/917794/harry-redknapp-predicts-mind-blowing-manchester-city-deals-?cc=4716

Redknapp predicts huge City deals

Harry Redknapp is fearful ManC's rise is an inexorable 1, with the Tottenham chief claiming he knows the club hv already lined up mind blowing signings.

Redknapp's Spurs r likely 2 miss out on the 4th Champions League qualification place 2 City & he feels tat will enable the Manchester club 2 press ahead with their plans 4 domestic & European domination.

City hv spent big bringing in the likes of Carlos Tevez, Yaya Toure & David Silva - but were unable 2 lure even bigger names on account of not being in the Champions League. But with tat set 2 change, Redknapp fears a huge spending spree.

"I know people in the right positions there (@ City) hv said, 'well, the 1 thing we couldn't offer was Champions League football'," Redknapp said. "But they tell me they've got 1 or 2 players signed already who'll blow your brains out.

"They aren't going 2 stop until they win the championship & even then the Champions League, r they?

"The man fr Abu Dhabi has got so much money. They're going 2 spend another £200 million probably tis summer."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=292933&cc=4716

City secure Champions League place

Aft an overall investment in excess of £1 billion & over £350 million spent on players, the team tat Sheikh Mansour built qualified 4 the Champions League.

And just 2 make the night even more sweet 4 the City owner & manager Roberto Mancini, the goal tat sent them there was scored by the same man who denied them last year, Peter Crouch.

The Tottenham 4ward's own goal aft half an hour was enough 2 take City 9 points clear of the Londoners, & out of Liverpool's reach as well with 2 games 2 spare.

And, though City fans were watching thru splayed fingers @ times as their team sat back on their lead & allowed their visitors 2 attack, they can now look 4ward 2 Saturday's FA Cup final with Stoke knowing an end 2 their 35-year wait 4 a trophy will complete a perfect season.

A lot can change in a year.

Both sides retained only 4 members of their starting line-ups fr 12 months previous.

In Tottenham's case, tat was exclusively down 2 injury & poor form.

City were calling on 5 men who were not even @ the club 4 tat fateful occasion, including goalkeeper Joe Hart, who they had tried 2 get back fr a loan spell @ Birmingham.

Given Harry Redknapp had already declared a belief tat City hv made 1 or 2 signings tat will "blow your brains out" in the summer, it was clear where the momentum lay.

Even without Carlos Tevez, who was back on the bench ahead of Saturday's Wembley showpiece, Roberto Mancini was still able 2 call upon the dynamic services of David Silva, who threatened danger @ every turn.

The irony in Crouch scoring the goal 2 put City ahead was inescapable.

At the very same end last term, the England 4ward sent Tottenham on a rollercoaster journey tat has taken them 2 Milan twice tis season, & Madrid. Meetings with Europe's elite tat will live forever.

As Mancini has noted though, there has been a physical toll taken & Tottenham r now a shadow of the side tat lit up the Champions League stage.

So, once Luka Modric had gone 4 accuracy instead of power as he connected with Aaron Lennon's square ball, yet still failed 2 find the net as his shot rolled agonisingly wide, the fear 4 Tottenham was obvious.

Crouch wasn't the only man 2 blame.

There was no effort 2 track Milner's run aft he had taken a short corner with Adam Johnson, allowing him 2 stride down the by-line & deliver a powerful, low cross 2 the near post.

Under pressure fr Joleon Lescott, Crouch stuck out a boot instinctively.

Aft scoring only 4 Premier League goals tis season, Crouch could only reflect on the fact tat tis time, the target was found with ease, & in much the same way as his effort last season.

City had only created 1 other 1st-half chance of note.

It was hardly a surprise Silva was the architect, squaring 4 Edin Dzeko in much the same manner as Lennon was 2 do a bit later.

The Bosnian's effort was on target but Carlo Cudicini, in 4 injured 1st-choice Heurelho Gomes, turned it away.

There have been a number of decent performers 4 City tis season but few hv been as consistent as Hart.

And, aft being relatively unemployed during the opening period, he made a telling contribution right @ the start of the 2nd half as Steven Pienaar met Lennon's far-post cross with a firm header.

Hart's movement was 2 his right. He quickly adjusted his feet 2 make an excellent save 2 his left, denying Tottenham an equaliser & saving a few fingernails, tat ended up getting chewed anyway.

If City & their supporters had taken a backward step & thought abt the situation, they would hv realised they were actually in a position of complete comfort in terms of their top 4 aspirations.

But a sense of panic swept round the ground, which only grew as Rafael van der Vaart & Lennon threatened fr decent positions.

Yet it was City who came closest 2 grabbing a 2nd, only 4 William Gallas 2 brilliantly turn away Patrick Vieira's goalbound header.

Tottenham tried 2 respond but could muster nothing worthwhile & they r now outsiders 2 even finish 5th, with Stoke guaranteed a place in the Europa League, no matter wat happens on Saturday.

Carlos Tevez will be fit 4 tat aft a late substitute appearance, having done as much as anyone 2 ensure City r back amongst Europe's elite 4 the 1st time in 43 years.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/918003/man-city-scout-jan-vertonghen,-axel-witsel-and-kevin-de-bruyne?cc=4716

City scout Belgian trio

ManC boss Roberto Mancini was present @ the KNVB Beker final 2 scout Ajax star Jan Vertonghen, according 2 reports in Belgium & the Netherlands.

City r believed 2 hv seen a bid 4 Belgium international Vertonghen, 24, turned down in January but r now reportedly prepared 2 spend £15 million on the player, who recently revealed he was dreaming of a move 2 England.

Meanwhile, City scout Attilio Lombardo was @ Sclessin on Saturday 2 check out Standard Liege midfielder Axel Witsel. Witsel, 22, has been a key figure 4 Standard tis season & will hv impressed Lombardo with an excellent goal 2 beat Club Brugge & keep Standard in with a chance 2 win the Belgian League.

Witsel - a former winner of the Golden Shoe, Belgium's highest individual accolade - has stated his desire 2 move on, saying he has "nothing left 2 win in Belgium".

City also sent scouts 2 watch Kevin De Bruyne, 19, who has also attracted interest fr Chelsea. His club, Racing Genk, r currently top of the league in Belgium & clear fav 2 win. The attacking midfielder, yet another of Belgium's young talents, has attracted headlines recently 4 his dribbling, passing ability & a vision belying his young age. Zenit St Petersburg r also in the market 4 him.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/918291/man-city-open-door-for-cesc-and-zlatan?cc=4716

City open door for Cesc and Zlatan

ManC manager Roberto Mancini has named Cesc Fabregas & Zlatan Ibrahimovic as potential transfer targets aft securing a place in the Champions League qualifying rounds next season.

City sealed 4th place in the Premier League with a 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday night & Mancini still has hopes of catching Arsenal in 3rd, which would bring with it automatic qualification 4 the Champions League group stage.

When asked which players he wanted 2 recruit 2 strengthen City as they head in2 Europe's elite competition, Mancini replied: "Cesc Fabregas". The Italian also told The Sun tat there is a place @ Eastlands 4 AC Milan striker Ibrahimovic.

Arsenal resisted efforts fr Barca 2 prise Fabregas away fr Emirates Stadium last summer, but aft another season without silverware the focus may be on the Gunners captain 1s again.

How serious Mancini was is not clear, but he certainly has the financial might 2 test Arsenal's resolve & will likely spend big.

Ibrahimovic worked under the Italian @ Inter Milan & he may be available, having spent tis season on loan @ AC Milan fr Barca.

"If Zlatan 1s 2 come 2 City, I would immediately find a place 4 him," Mancini said.

"Our target @ the start of the season was 2 qualify 4 the Champions League & reach a big final - so we hv managed 2 do tat.

"As I said when I arrived, in 2 or 3 years, ManC can become 1 of the top clubs in Europe. We hv everything you need 2 do tis."

City can cap their season with victory in the FA Cup on Saturday, live on ESPN, & the Italian has urged his players 2 turn their attentions 2 Stoke.

He said: "Now we must think of the weekend. Tis latest win will give us a lift 4 Saturday."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/918699/micah-richards-predicts-big-things-for-man-city-next-season?cc=4716

Richards predicting big things for City

Micah Richards believes ManC will improve further next season - & predicted they will match Tottenham Hotspur's achievement in reaching the last 8 of the Champions League.

Tuesday night's 1-0 win over Spurs @ Eastlands secured a 1st-ever season in the Champions League 4 Roberto Mancini's men. And now Richards 1s the club 2 challenge 4 the title next season.

Richards, who is likely 2 be on international duty with England Under-21s @ the European Championships, said: "I've watched a lot of Champions League football. I watched Spurs & they did well getting 2 the quarter-finals. There is no reason why we shouldn't do tat.

"I m sure we will invest & make ourselves even stronger again. Every club needs new players & we always look 2 strengthen in every position. We're not the City of old, always making silly mistakes, any more.

"Every year we hv had a progression. Last year 5th & tis year 4th. Next season we will try & build on tat again. It's just amazing, unbelievable. I've always dreamt of playing in the Champions League - now I'm going 2 hv 2 pinch myself 2 realise it has really happened.

"2 hv the chance of playing against the world's best players is incredible & I can't wait."

Richards believes the players hv now proved the doubters, who claimed they had only joined City 4 the money & not 4 any sense of achievement, incorrect.

He said: "We hv proved them wrong. We r not stupid. We hear wat ppl say. They r always having a go @ us 4 spending money. But look @ us, it's worked. People r always saying the team spirit is not good but it's unbelievable.

"A lot of ppl were putting us down & saying we were not good enough 2 reach the Champions League, but we hv proved them wrong. We hv proved how good we r by staying in the top 4 thru the entire season.

"I don't know if people appreciate how far we've come. It takes a lot 2 catch up on the teams who hv been in the top 4 for a long time. We can build on tis & challenge 4 the title.

"We r relieved tat gaining a top-4 place is done & dusted. We rode our luck @ times against Tottenham on Tuesday night, but we dug deep in the 2nd half & tat shows how far we hv come. A couple of years ago we probably would hv lost tat game. But we r not the City of old, the team who always made silly mistakes.

"Now it is important 2 keep our feet on the ground & win the FA Cup. Stoke r no mugs. I watched them play against Arsenal last Sunday & they were unbelievable. They worked 4 each other. They hv quality on the wings in Jermaine Pennant & Matthew Etherington - who may come back fr his hamstring injury 2 play in the final.

"So if we r not on our game then Stoke will find us out. They will be up 4 it, like we will. And if we play as well as we can & David Silva continues 2 play like a magician, we've every chance of being able 2 celebrate again on Saturday."

Richards also says he has no intentions of leaving City even though his current contract expires @ the end of next season, when he will be eligible 2 move on a free transfer having turned 24 in June 2012.

"There hv been talks abt a new contract but @ the moment I m just trying 2 do well in each game," he added. "I m always happy 2 be at ManC. It is my 1st & only club. It is the club 4 me. Yes, there hv been some difficult moments & I hv been linked with a move 2 different teams. But when times r hard it makes you work harder.

"I m still young. I hv played more than 150 games & therefore I hv a bit of experience now. My focus is here. As long as the club 1 me, I 1 2 be here & doing well 4 the team."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/919126/kevin-keegan:-manchester-city-have-the-chance-to-become-heroes?cc=4716

A chance to be heroes - By Kevin Keegan

Securing Champions League football with a win against Tottenham in midweek was important 4 ManC, but tat was only the prelude 2 the main act tis week. It is my belief tat winning the FA Cup is more important than finishing in 4th place & 4 1 reason: ManC need 2 finally win some silverware.

If you win 1 trophy then often others will follow. It can spark a domino effect. City haven't won something 4 so long - 35 years, since the 1976 League Cup final - so they really need 2 hv their name up in lights 1s again 2 get tat winning feeling back. Yes, the Champions League is lucrative & prestigious, but if you could pick either 4th place or the cup, I would hv said the cup. City hv a trophy drought hanging over their heads, & ending it is paramount.

The club's long wait 4 success has been well publicised. When I was there fr 2001 to 2005, we were Division 1 champions, but tat isn't a trophy tat a club of City's size should be winning. It has been a tough, tough time 4 the club's supporter over the years, particularly given ManU's success across the city, & some of them r understandably still a bit sceptical. Some of them say 2 me, "I much preferred it when we were struggling & we didn't hv any $!"

I think there is an element among supporters of any club tat quite like it when they feel the world is against them, & being the richest club in football is an unfamiliar position 4 City supporters 2 be in, but the boot is on the other foot now & they hv 2 get used 2 increased expectation. They r favs 4 tis cup final, & if they turn up on the day, then they should win it, but they must be wary of complacency. If there is a club tat can take advantage of tat, it is Stoke City. Many neutrals will be supporting Tony Pulis & his side becos they r the underdogs, which is of course a position tat ManC hv been more accustomed 2 finding themselves in down the years.

The last ManC side 2 be on top of the national game, winning the cup in 1969, was a fantastic collection of players. I played with Franny Lee & Colin Bell with England, Mike Summerbee was in that team, Neil Young as well. I got 2 know their manager, Joe Mercer, & their captain, Tony Book, was in defence. I played against them all, & they were an excellent side. They were the best team tat club has had & the current crop, in the eyes of City fans, will not overtake them yet, becos their predecessors won the league title in 1968 & the Cup Winners' Cup & League Cup in 1970 as well. They won things consistently & established a legacy. You can hv great players in any era, but teams r only great if they win things.

The class of '69 has set the benchmark 4 ManC, in terms of both trophies & style. I think the current team has got 2 move more 2wards providing entertainment, but tat comes with time, & @ tis moment perhaps the best way is 2 be careful. City fans say 2 me, "The football's not as good as when you were there", but tat doesn't matter. The football was good but we didn't win anything.

If City do rectify tat tis weekend then, believe me, those players will never 4get it. Wat is so special abt the FA Cup final is tat it holds a unique place in ppls' hearts. It is not just the goals tat you score, or the final result, but all the ceremony surrounding the day tat is burned in2 the memory. Sometimes supporters can remember more than the players even. Ppl sometimes ask me abt when distance runner Brendan Foster ran @ Wembley prior 2 the 1974 FA Cup final when I scored twice 4 Liverpool against Newcastle, but I don't remember it @ all.

When you r watching as a fan, & particularly as a kid, it is a magical day. I remember watching my 1st cup final, in 1958, as a guy in a white suit sung on top of a piece of scaffolding & a big band played. When you r 5 or 6, it is not always the match you remember but the pomp & circumstance of the occasion.

4 Roberto Mancini, winning the FA Cup & finishing 4th in his 1st full season would be a wonderful achievement. While some may say he should hv won the league with all the $ he has had @ his disposal, most recognise tat overnight success of tat kind is not realistic, particularly given the high turnover among the playing staff. Now, aft securing tat 4th place, he has the chance 2 make permanent history @ a club tat desires it so much.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/919264/roberto-mancini:-unhappy-players-should-leave-manchester-city?cc=4716

Mancini: Unhappy players should leave

ManC manager Roberto Mancini only 1s players @ the club who "believe in the project'' & insists Carlos Tevez & others r welcome 2 leave if they don't share the common aim.

Mancini, 46, has had 2 deal with claims of dressing-room dissent & in-fighting 4 most of tis season but has managed 2 guide City in2 the Champions League 4 the 1st time in the club's history.

City r expected 2 spend big in the summer as Mancini assembles a squad he believes can compete @ Europe's top table, though there remains a big question mark over Tevez & whether he will still be around 2 lead the team.

The Argentina striker's future has been in doubt ever since he handed in a transfer request last December, a request which he later withdrew. But while Mancini acknowledges his captain's role in City's success tis season, the Italian boss says tat if Tevez or any of his team-mates r unhapppy @ Eastlands, they should leave.

"He's got a 5-year contract but I always say tat a player should stay here becos he believes in the project & he's happy 2 stay @ the club,'' Mancini said. "But if I'm not happy 2 stay @ City I will leave. It's the same 4 the players.

"If they aren't happy 2 stay @ the club it's better they leave. But tis is not just 4 Carlos, it's 4 the players in general. When you start your job u should be happy becos the season is long & there could be a thousand problems.

"I never said tat Carlos 1s 2 leave. I said it would be his decision. He has scored 22 goals & that's very important. We always say he's an important player 4 us. But we've got tis far becos all the players hv contributed.''


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/919330/david-silva-urges-manchester-city-to-sign-cesc-fabregas?cc=4716

Silva urges City to sign Fabregas

David Silva says he would love 2 see Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas join him @ Eastlands.

Silva, who alongside Fabregas won the 2010 World Cup with Spain, believes the Gunners midfielder would make a fine addition 2 Roberto Mancini's side, & would boost their chances of contending regularly 4 major trophies.

However, the 25-year-old is realistic enough 2 accept tat a blockbuster Premier League transfer does not look imminent.

"If only he could come, it would be great, marvellous," Silva said in The Sun. "We know wat he's achieved as a player & he has a lot of experience of playing in England.

"He likes 2 keep the ball & tat's how we like 2 play. He treats the ball as his friend & I get on with him well. I know him fr the national side, so it would be great."

Silva also won the 2008 European Championships with his national side, but believes winning the FA Cup with City would still be a very special achievement.

"It would be just as meaningful 4 me in the sense tat it's been a good while since City won a trophy or even got in2 a final, so I know how important it is 4 the people who follow tis club," he said.

"Becos I've had such a good time here & been treated so well by the fans, it's important I can give something 2 them. Give them a victory."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report/_/id/316112?cc=4716

City end 35 years of hurt by winning FA Cup

ManC's spending spree finally delivered some silverware as they won the FA Cup - courtesy of a 1-0 win over Stoke - 2 end their 35-year wait 4 a major trophy.

Almost 3 years aft Sheik Mansour's takeover transformed City in2 1 of the richest clubs in the world, his £300million investment has now produced Champions League qualification & an FA Cup triumph in the space of a week.

It was somehow fitting tat semi-final hero Yaya Toure - reportedly the highest paid player in the Barclays Premier League on £185,000 a week - was the match-winner again against Stoke, whose 148-year wait 4 FA Cup glory goes on.

City had not won the cup themselves since 1969 but the Potters had not even been 2 a final & were the only surviving founder members of the Football League never 2 lift the trophy.

The 1-0 defeat was also a double-whammy 4 manager Tony Pulis, whose last Wembley final saw his Gillingham side lose the 1999 2nd Division play-offs 2 City.

The build-up 2 cup final day had been dominated by talk of the competition being further devalued by the scheduling of the game.

ManU clinching the Barclays Premier League title mins b4 kick-off did not help matters, & neither therefore did a rather unfortunate pre-match rendition of 'We r the Champions'.

But try telling tat 2 the tens of thousands of City & Stoke fans crammed in2 Wembley tis afternoon 4 wat was the 1st cup final 4 both clubs 4 more than a generation.

And try telling it 2 the managers, who each gambled on the fitness of key players as Carlos Tevez, Matthew Etherington & Robert Huth all started.

City captain Tevez soon set abt proving manager Roberto Mancini right, forcing a fine parry fr Thomas Sorensen fr 25 yards.

It was a sign of things 2 come as Mancini's men belied their reputation 4 caution in a utterly dominant 1st-half display.

Ryan Shawcross almost put in2 his own net & Toure drilled just wide fr long range.

And City would hv been ahead midway thru the half but 4 a world-class save fr Sorensen, who somehow clawed behind Mario Balotelli's top-corner-bound curler.

It was looking like Sorensen's lucky day aft he kept his place as Stoke's FA Cup goalkeeper ahead of Asmir Begovic.

He survived being beaten 2 a long ball by Tevez & got away with spilling Vincent Kompany's tame long-ranger.

His luck continued when Tevez brilliantly played in Balotelli & Sorensen beat the ball down straight 2 David Silva, who rifled a shot in2 the ground & over the crossbar.

Stoke had gone some way 2 shattering their own reputation in their free-flowing semi-final demolition of Bolton.

But when Huth's forearm connected with Balotelli's jaw, it was an early indication they had reverted 2 type.

Long throws & set-pieces were once again the order of the day, although they did fashion a chance in open play when Vincent Kompany threw his body @ Kenwyne Jones' close-range shot.

Emerging fr wat can only hv been harsh words @ half-time, Stoke tore in2 City early in the 2nd half, Jermaine Pennant playing thru the pain of a 1st-half ankle injury 2 lead the charge.

But they were unable 2 produce the finishing touch & were almost caught on the break when Tevez squared 4 Silva, who hesitated just long enough 4 Shawcross 2 nick the ball away.

Joe Hart had been a spectator all afternoon but he came 2 City's rescue just past the hour mark when Jones beat Joleon Lescott 2 a long ball b4 poking his finish 2 close 2 the keeper.

Etherington, who had looked less than fully fit, was immediately withdrawn 4 Dean Whitehead.

Mancini responded 2 City's 2nd-half slump by throwing on Adam Johnson 4 Gareth Barry & it immediately paid off.

City won the ball on the edge of the area & Balotelli exchanged passes via Huth, with the Italian's shot blocked by Marc Wilson straight 2 Toure 2 blast home.

Desperate defending & a fine save twice prevented Silva wrapping up victory, with Stoke throwing on John Carew in a bid 2 keep their dream alive.

Mancini finally went defensive when he withdrew Tevez 4 Pablo Zabaleta but despite late Stoke pressure, City deservedly hung on.

Man of the Match: Nigel de Jong.
Yaya Toure scored the winning goal but he could hv been sent off 4 raking the back of Andy Wilkinson's leg. David Silva & Mario Balotelli also impressed but the man who provided the base 4 Man City's attack was the Dutchman, who performed with typical tenacity & bossed midfield.

ManC verdict:
A richly-deserved victory 2 end 35 years of hurt. ManC were the better side fr the off & played the more ambitious, flowing football. They coped well with Stoke's height & should hv won by a greater margin, but 1-0 will suit Roberto Mancini just fine. Goalscorer Yaya Toure was fortunate 2 escape punishment 4 a horrible challenge though.

Stoke verdict:
Tony Pulis' men suffered fr having a clearly unfit Matthew Etherington on the pitch, while Jermaine Pennant also struggled with an ankle injury. They retreated in2 their shell aft tat 5-0 win over Bolton in the semi-final & lacked invention or imagination. Robert Huth was also lucky 2 escape an early red card.

Could do better:
Kenwyne Jones. The striker was presented with a glorious chance in the 2nd half but was denied by a fine save fr Joe Hart. It was Stoke's best chance of the match & could hv changed the course of the game.

Stat attack:
Roberto Mancini has now won a domestic cup with 4 different clubs - Fiorentina, Lazio, Inter & ManC.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/919728/john-brewin:-manchester-city-here-to-stay-after-cup-glory?cc=4716

City here to stay after cup glory

Manchester, so much 2 celebrate. Aft their Old Trafford rivals had sealed 19 titles over a Lancashire lunchtime, ManC r now able 2 open their trophy cabinet aft a wait of 35 years, 18 managers & countless false starts. Try telling their fans tat tis achievement has been overshadowed. "We're not really here," they may sing, but they hv now arrived as a force in English football.

Yaya Toure, with his left foot, drilled home a goal 2 end the barren years, & end a week where City's 'project' delivered on its 1st set of objectives. The Champions League beckons, & Carlos Tevez emulated the likes of Tony Book and Mike Doyle 2 hold aloft the FA Cup 2 complete a full set of English honours b4 he takes his expected leave of these shores. His customary 2-year cycle may be complete but his current club expect 2 begin a spell where they will compete 4 the big honours on a regular basis. A curse has been broken, & though Toure is no local hero in the fashion of Neil Young in 1969, the Ivorian is now etched in2 club history. His goal was the type of big-match clutch play tat half-a-billion of Abu Dhabian oil riches is supposed 2 deliver.

It was tough on Stoke City. Their own trophy drought will now reach 40 years. A manful effort was denied by a lack of quality, & the inability of their gameplan 2 get started. Their physicality could not overpower their opponents, who r even more possessive of height & physique. It was clear fr early on tat a single act would most likely win tis occasion, & the team in blue possessed the more likely personnel 2 deliver it. Indeed, they should hv been out of sight by half-time.

Stoke's sing-song accents, opposed 2 the guttural whine of Mancunian voices, were much the louder until tension took hold, & their team crawled 2 half-time lucky 2 be intact both in terms of the scoreline & personnel. Robert Huth's elbow on Balotelli was uncalled 4, an inexplicable act but 1 tat went unpunished by referee Martin Atkinson, whose display here was often of the type tat has won him few friends in the other half of Manchester.

David Silva's touch, so sure all season, deserted him just past the half-hour with goal gaping aft Balotelli's shot had squirted in2 his path, yet he somehow managed 2 direct the ball over the bar off the turf, a move he may struggle 2 replicate. As ever, he gleamed brightest of ManC's millionaires but Roberto Mancini turned & headed 4 the sanctity of his seat in open disgust.

The other side of half-time saw Silva similarly wasteful as Tevez played him in with the goal beckoning. City hv spent big 2 sign stars 2 deliver on the big occasion but their Spanish schemer looked grasped by the 'City-itis' tat has affected many a lesser talent. However, the other City bore the more obvious signs of the occasion getting 2 them. They just did not get going. Rory Delap's long throws were meat & drink 2 Vincent Kompany & Joleon Lescott, the Irishman never getting his optimum trajectory. Wembley did not offer the towelling service he is used 2 @ the Brittania Stadium.

Potters boss Tony Pulis was crestfallen in defeat but offered hearty praise 2 the victors. "We were beaten very convincingly," he said. "I hv nothing but full congratulations, the better team fully deserved 2 win & it's difficult 4 me 2 stand here & say tat."

Positives were soon offered by Pulis aft wat has been a fine season 4 a club still re-establishing themselves. "The big picture is very good," he reflected. "It was just a desperately disappointing day."

Having abandoned his pre-match Wembley suit, Pulis had prowled the touchline in requisite cap & tracksuit, choosing as ever 2 dress like a Sunday afternoon drinker in a council estate boozer as compared 2 the exquisitely tailored number tat Roberto Mancini would not be seen dead without. The Italian later donned the scarf which was 1s his trademark in celebration, as he hailed Toure, Mario Balotelli & the outstanding Vincent Kompany 4 their leading roles b4 setting sights on next season & a possible challenge 2 tat team in red's primacy.

"We 1 2 try," Mancini said. "The Champions League was our 1st target & then we 1 the FA Cup. In England, there r 3 competitions & we won the FA Cup & it's an important trophy. We went thru alot tis season, we need 2 improve more. Then we start 2 win."

His players had shown off a banner with a ticker set to '0-0' in riposte 2 the infamous mockery tat has been on display on the Stretford End 4 many a year & must now be taken down. "It was time," Mancini said. It was perhaps a shame tat City saw fit 2 define themselves thru the jibes of supporters fr another club, but aiming 4 United's perch is the end game of 'the project'.

"All the people in Manchester r happy," said Mancini the diplomat. "Next year we will see. We can play 4 the top with the other teams." Manchester, 4 the 1st time since 1968, has 2 teams able 2 boast of silverware. Mancunian red & blue looks a rivalry tat can only intensify.

MANCHESTER CITY VERDICT:
Tis was a highly professional & powerful display. As ever, it lacked stardust but getting the job done was the focus here. Understandable nerves seemed 2 hv gripped Silva in particular but the strength of their performance is best represented by the fact tat Stoke never looked likely 2 equalise 1s they had gone behind.

STOKE CITY VERDICT:
They gave much, but came away with only disappointment. Matthew Etherington's rush 2 play with a clearly still-damaged hamstring was a severe handicap, & he never got in2 the game. Kenwyne Jones blew their best chance but Stoke were never able 2 create enough 2 go in front, or later equalise.

MAN OF THE MATCH:
Mario Balotelli was the official choice, but the plaudits here go 2 the goalscorer, a hard-running threat throughout, & a man whose fitness levels hv lifted 2 allow him 2 become a 90-minute box-2-box man on Wembley's draining turf. His will be the name remembered fr tis game.

CIVIC PRIDE:
ManU's title win could not dim the spirits of City's fans, & they celebrated glory with backs 2 their heroes via the famed 'Poznan' dance. Tis should be a day 4 Manchester 2 remember but it is difficult 2 see 2 much grace extended in either direction. 'Purples' - those who follow both blue & red - r in very short supply these days.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/919689/roberto-mancini-sees-beginning-of-city-dynasty?cc=4716

Mancini eyes beginning of dynasty

ManC manager Roberto Mancini believes the club's FA Cup success is just the start, with Yaya Toure's goal ending a 35-year wait 4 silverware with a 1-0 win over Stoke City.

Mancini said: "I can say only tat I'm very happy 4 all the supporters. Aft many years they deserve 2 win tis trophy. I didn't feel we dominated tis game. We need 2 improve but we r very happy. We did a small piece of history of ManC. We start now.''

When asked if the cup victory felt devalued by rivals ManU winning the title just b4 kick-off, Mancini said: "Absolutely not. In England there r 3 competitions, the Premier League, Carling Cup & FA Cup. We won the FA Cup. It is an important trophy. We need 2 improve more 2 do another step (win the title) but it was important 2 start 2 win becos when you start 2 win, afterwards everything will be easier.

"We 1 2 try (2 match United). We hv got 2 the Champions League, tat was our 1st target & we won the FA Cup. It is very important 4 tis club.''

On whether the drinks would be flowing Mancini, whose side play Stoke again in the Premier League on Tuesday, also said: "No, they know tat we should play in 3 days. We hv another 2 games & we 1 2 try if possible 2 get 3rd position.

"Tis night all the people in Manchester r happy. Next year we will see. It is important we finish well tis season. We can try 2 play 4 the top with the other teams but tis Premier League is very difficult becos Liverpool & Tottenham r also very strong teams.''

Mancini singled out goalscorer Toure, whose basic pay packet is reported 2 be the biggest in the Premier League, 4 special praise. Mancini said: "We bought him 4 tis. He is a fantastic player. He scored in the semi-final & the final. All season he has played very well.''

Mancini also expressed his belief tat captain Carlos Tevez would be remaining with the club, despite suggestions he will leave tis summer. He said: "Carlos has a 5-year contract with us. I think tat he will stay. I don't think he 1s 2 leave."

Controversial striker Mario Balotelli, who shrugged off a physical collision with Robert Huth in the 1st half & was then named as man of the match, also impressed Mancini. Mancini said: "Balotelli played very well. Tis trophy 4 him could be important. It can help him 2 improve like a man & as a player.''

Toure was ecstatic aft his goal won the FA Cup. Toure blasted home the only goal of the game in the 75th minute.

He told ITV1: "The dream is now ... It's fantastic 2 win. It's fantastic 4 the history of the club. We wanted 2 win something & get thru 2 the Champions League. It's amazing.''

Striker Mario Balotelli was named man of the match and said: "I'm happy. I said 2 the guys b4 the game 'we're better than them, we hv 2 respect them & give everything & if we do we're going 2 win'.''

Asked if it was his best performance of the season, he said: "All my season was s*** - can I say tat? I've played not very well, but 2day maybe I played more 4 the team.''

Goalkeeper Joe Hart declared ManC had "shut up'' all of their critics aft winning the FA Cup & ending their 35-year wait 4 a major trophy.

Hart said: "It feels amazing. Tuesday night was an amazing feeling &, obviously, 2day's an amazing feeling. Great season, great people & great fans. Buzzing. Champions League's important 4 the club. Getting a trophy tat shut every1 up is important 4 the fans & 4 us.

"It was wat we wanted 2 do but it's easier said than done & we've gone out & done it. I'm pretty sure there r a few ppl who didn't 1 us 2 do it & we've done it - so who cares?

"I couldn't care less wat they do @ Old Trafford. I'm annoyed even 2 say their name 2day becos it's got nothing 2 do with them. It's abt us, it's abt ManC winning the FA Cup, ManC getting in the Champions League. So 'bothered' wat they do.''

Hart also hailed matchwinner Yaya Toure, who was also the semi-final hero having previously taken flak 4 his performances on a salary reported 2 be the highest in the country. He said: "Huge goals, huge player. He cost alot & I imagine he's paid a lot.

"He's come up with the goods so no-1 can question tat guy. He done great 4 us & we're happy 4 him.''

City were well worth their win their victory tis afternoon & Hart said: "We've absolutely hammered them 2day & I think there's only 1 result. But, fair play 2 Stoke, they were totally resilient & they made a great game of it. It was a great spectacle but the better team won.''

And Hart believes City r only heading in 1 direction.

"I'd like 2 think so,'' he said. "It was really hard 2 get 4th spot, really hard 2 get the trophy 2day. But we've done it & long may it continue.''

Defender Micah Richards was lost 4 words aft City's triumph. He said: "It's unbelievable. Words can't describe it. We've worked hard all season. Now it's happened, it's unbelievable. Tis is the 1st 1 & tis is the most important. We've got 2 build on tis.''

Midfielder Adam Johnson added: "Take a little look @ wat it means 2 the fans - 35 years of wait & we did it.''

ManC will hold a victory parade around the city on May 23 to celebrate winning the FA Cup. The event will start @ 1800 BST on the day aft the end of the current Premier League season & will give City supporters the chance 2 celebrate their 1st major trophy since their League Cup success in 1976.

Garry Cook, City's chief executive officer, hailed the achievements of the team & thanked ManC Council 4 their invitation 2 parade the trophy.

"Saturday was a truly historic occasion 4 ManC Football Club & we r delighted 2 be bringing the FA Cup trophy back 2 Manchester,'' he said. "We r extremely grateful 2 ManC Council 4 their invitation 2 parade the trophy, & we r looking 4ward 2 seeing as many of our wonderful supporters as possible lining the streets of the city next Monday.''

The council's invitation follows their earlier announcement tat they would also organise a parade 4 Premier League winners ManU & Sir Richard Leese, the leader of ManC Council, said it was 'fitting' 2 allow Roberto Mancini's side the chance 2 honour their triumph along with their fans.

"City winning the FA Cup is a joyous occasion 4 many people in Manchester, myself included. It's only fitting tat we host a public celebration of tat achievement so fans can share the moment & enjoy the success,'' he said. "Manchester's football clubs r a huge source of pride, helping 2 project the city's name around the world, & we expect some unforgettable scenes on 23 May as thousands of City fans gather 2 acclaim their team.''

[joew2005]

http://forums.soccernet.com/will-united-be-the-best-team-in-manchester-this-time-next-se-t123127.html

Will United be the best team in Manchester next season?

There was good news 4 both halves of Manchester @ the weekend as City lifted the FA Cup & United secured the league title. The red devils r on top now, but could ManC's spending upset the balance next season?

City r now a Champions League side & will command the cash & reverence of a club @ the top of football's food chain. Any players who weren't already tempted by the huge wages on offer @ City could now hv their heads turned by the ability 2 play in the UCL.

Summer signings seem inevitable, so is it time 4 United fans 2 start worrying abt their supremacy in the city? Tis time next season which club do you think will be having the better time?


With Alex Ferguson still in charge @ ManU,I don't see how Mancini k lead the blue half of Manchester 2 finish abv the red half next season.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/920658/david-platt:-manchester-city-can-be-haven-for-world's-best-players?cc=4716

Platt: City can be haven 4 world's best

On the back of 1 of the most successful weeks in ManC's history, 1st-team coach David Platt sees no reason why the club shouldn't now be on the radar of the world's best players.

City celebrated winning the FA Cup on Saturday, ending their 35-year wait 4a major trophy, & also secured qualification 4 next season's Champions League by beating Spurs last Tuesday.

Roberto Mancini's side could leapfrog Arsenal & go 3rd in the Premier League table if they beat Stoke on Tuesday night & should they finish abv the Gunners they will avoid going thru the Champions League play-offs & go straight in2 the group stage.

City's wealthy Abu Dhabi owners hv already invested almost £300 million on new personnel since taking ownership of the club in 2008 & the likes of Carlos Tevez, Edin Dzeko & Yaya Toure certainly represent players of significant calibre.

And Platt feels tat the club should be able 2 attract even bigger names now tat they will be sitting @ European football's top table next season, meaning there will be no repeat of the farcical £100 million offer 4 Kaka in January 2009, which was accepted by AC Milan b4 the Brazilian opted 2 stay becos he was not convinced of City's quality.

"By winning something but perhaps more importantly by securing Champions League qualification, we will hopefully become more attractive 2 players," Platt said. "These r the kind of players tat give us tat next step up in quality.

"Hopefully, we'll manage 2 hv a successful summer in terms of attracting some targets tat we've got. We've got 2 make sure tat we go 4 people tat we feel can add quality & depth 2 the squad.''

City aim 2 kick on next season & challenge city rivals ManU 4 the title. But Platt insists winning silverware year-on-year is more important than occasionally getting the better of their neighbours.

"Progression is 2 go & compete 4 the title but nobody's turning around & bragging abt tat @ all. City hv had 2 suffer in the shadow of a club tat's been magnificent. They won the league on Saturday so you can't take anything away fr them.

"We won't be on a level with them until we start winning trophies on a regular basis. But 2 be in & around United, 2 compete with them, is tremendous 4 us. But the end result isn't necessarily 2 outdo ManU. The end result is 2 win trophies.''

Yaya Toure, who scored the winning goal against Stoke @ Wembley, is determined 2 finish the season with a swagger. City close their campaign by facing Bolton on Sunday @ the Reebok Stadium & the midfielder is eager 2 take maximum points fr both games.

"We r already in the Champions League but 2 finish ahead of Arsenal in 3rd place would be fantastic. I m so happy @ the moment with the way things r going & seeing how much winning a trophy means 2 our supporters.

"Our dressing room is a great place 2 be. We r all together, we all fight 4 the team & tat is so important.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/920903/roberto-mancini:-carlos-tevez-says-he-wants-to-stay-at-city?cc=4716

Mancini: Tevez says he 1s 2 stay

ManC boss Roberto Mancini says tat striker Carlos Tevez has told him tat he 1s 2 stay @ the club next season.

Tevez has been linked with a move away fr England aft he claimed he wanted 2 be nearer 2 his family. The Argentine handed in a transfer request @ the end of last year, but has since opted 2 stay @ the club, helping them 2 break their trophy drought with the capture of the FA Cup & hauling them 2 3rd in the Premier League.

The striker netted 2 sublime goals in a 3-0 win over defeated FA Cup finalists Stoke on Tuesday night & manager Mancini revealed tat Tevez has told him he has no desire 2 leave yet.

"Carlos has told me he 1s 2 stay," said Mancini @ his post-match press conference. ''I hv spoken with him many times in the last 20 days & my opinion is he will stay. He has a 5-year contract & has told us he 1s 2 stay. He said tat b4. He nvr had any problem.

''Carlos has scored 20 goals tis season. Every time we say Carlos is an important player. Carlos is Carlos. He is a fantastic striker & a fantastic player 4 us.

''In December he had a problem. But every1 can change his opinion. I don't know wat his representatives think. Carlos is an important player here. The feeling 4 him is good. Nowhere else can he find behaviour tat all people hv 4 him.''

Mancini is clearly anxious 2 avoid a summer of uncertainty, particularly surrounding his best attacking player, who moved level with Dimitar Berbatov in the race 4 the Golden Boot with a brace tat took him onto 20 for the season.

''I think if he will stay next year he won't change,'' said Mancini. ''When we play in the Champions League, probably we will hv a better squad. We can buy other good players. Why should he change? I don't think tis will happen.''

City know tat victory away 2 Bolton on Sunday will see them stay ahead of Arsenal in the table & Mancini is keen 2 seal an automatic Champions League berth.

The Italian said: "I think it is important we think abt the next game, it is in our hands. It is fantastic becos everything depends on us. We hv got in2 the position. We hv 1 difficult game & it is very important.

"We hv had a fantastic season with 4th place. Now we hv won the FA Cup & if we can recover our strength well in the next 4 days we will go 2 Bolton. We r improving a lot & in the last 40 days we hv played really well. We can only improve next season.

"If we 1 2 win & improve, I know only 1 way - work, work hard. We can improve if we work. It is a very special moment. We hv won a trophy, we r in the top 4, @ the moment we r in 3rd position & I think 4 the supporters it is very special."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/921350/man-city-chairman-rules-out-summer-spree?cc=4716

Man City chief rules out summer spree

Chairman Khaldoon al-Mubarak has warned the club's fans not 2 expect another influx of big-name arrivals during the close season, stating: "It won't be like last summer."

City spent unprecedented levels of money 2 bring in the likes of Yaya Toure, Mario Balotelli & David Silva, & Roberto Mancini justified his purchases by qualifying 4 the Champions League & winning the FA Cup.

Having secured a place @ Europe's top table, it was expected tat City would now use Champions League football 2 lure a host of top names 2 Eastlands. CR, Kaka & Xavi hv all been linked, but Khaldoon insists the club will only tinker with the current squad.

"It won't be like last summer, or the summer b4," he said on City's official website. "Wat you will see tis year is strengthening the squad in areas tat we feel require more depth. "We don't need quantity, as 2day we hv quality. We just need a couple of players."

Much has been made of the future of Carlos Tevez, with Thursday's newspapers claiming the Argentinian is not happy @ Mancini's declaration tat he will stay @ the club. However, Khaldoon believes City r now set up 2 cope regardless of individual departures.

"I feel strongly a winning mentality is coming in2 the team," he said. "We hv an incredible squad with so many talented individuals & a lot of heart in tat squad.

"We hv an incredible foundation 4 incredible years ahead."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/921560/manchester-city-captain-carlos-tevez-seeks-eastlands-exit"?cc=4716

Tevez: I want to leave Man City

ManC skipper Carlos Tevez has told Argentinian radio tat he is seeking a move away fr the club as he needs "a change of scene".

Tevez, 27, has played an integral part in City's success tis season & aft helping the club end their 35-year trophy drought with victory in the FA Cup last Saturday, manager Roberto Mancini insisted the former ManU man was staying @ Eastlands.

"Carlos has told me he 1s 2 stay," Mancini said. ''I hv spoken with him many times in the last 20 days & my opinion is he will stay. He has a 5-year contract & has told us he 1s 2 stay. He said tat b4. He nvr had any problem."

Tevez initially concurred with Mancini's assessment, claiming the chance 2 overhaul former club United provided him with a great incentive 2 stay.

But the striker, who handed in a transfer request in December b4 later withdrawing it, appears 2 hv 1s again made up his mind tat a new challenge is wat he requires.

"I 1 2 leave ManC," Tevez told Radio del Plata. "Football has changed a lot 4 me & I don't know if I will even make it 2 the next WC.

"And tat has nothing 2 do with whether I'm selected or not. I've been treated very well here & I'm grateful. I also gave my everything 4 the club 2 receive the results it has had. But I need a change of scene."

The likes of Inter Milan & Real Madrid hv been linked with the Argentina ace, who is believed 2 hv turned down a massive new deal fr City worth £300,000 earlier in the season.

Tevez's 21 goals tis term hv fired City in2 the Champions League 4 the 1st time in their history & his brace against Stoke on Tuesday has helped put the club on the brink of automatic qualification 4 the group stage of the competition ahead of Arsenal.

As well as interest fr Italy & Spain, Tevez's former club Boca Juniors r reportedly ready 2 offer him a chance 2 return 2 his homeland, though the 4ward admitted the Argentinian side may not be able 2 afford him.

"2 go back 2 Boca Juniors would be beautiful but it is very difficult," Tevez said. "I spoke 2 their midfielder Roman Riquelme &, messing around, we agreed I would go back 1 day. But if we're speaking seriously, financial issues would make my return difficult."

If City agree 2 let their prized asset go, his last game could be tis Sunday's trip 2 Bolton & his last action could be 2 win the Premier League top scorer's crown - Tevez is currently level on 21 goals with ManU's Dimitar Berbatov.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/921834/ricky-villa-warns-%27greedy%27-carlos-tevez-to-stay-at-city?cc=4716

Legend warns Tevez to stay at City

Argentina WC winner Ricky Villa has warned Carlos Tevez tat greed could ruin his career aft the ManC striker 1s again demanded 2 leave Eastlands.

Tevez, the Premier League's joint-top scorer, has helped fire City in2 a Champions League place & won the FA Cup tis season 2 end the club's 35-year trophy drought, but has told Argentinian radio tat it is time 4 a "change of scene".

Tevez, who handed in a transfer request in December b4 later withdrawing the demand, has been @ 5 different clubs in the past 7 years & his desire 2 move yet again has sparked anger & condemnation.

Argentina coach Sergio Batista has left the 20-goal striker out of his national squad 4 the forthcoming Copa America tournament & Villa, another famous Argentinian export 2 English football, thinks Tevez needs 2 show loyalty 2 his club.

Ex-Tottenham star Villa, who lifted the FA Cup in 1981 & 1982, told the Daily Mirror: "Tevez is @ the top of his game @ the moment & everybody is saying he will move 2 another team, but it is all abt $.

"We should be talking abt Tevez the way we speak abt Messi. Now, everything is all abt the $. It's greedy, it's greedy.

"I prefer - & I can only speak 4 myself - 4 him 2 stay @ 1 club. It's not nice 2 see him move fr 1 side 2 the other. I prefer 4 the player 2 prove himself @ 1 club.

"You can win the league with City & tat should be a big, big thing. Not the $. It's only 1 million more or less. I don't agree with tat. Wat more does he need? I think he should stay."

Following City's 3-0 win over Stoke City in midweek, Tevez, who scored 2-goals 2 make him joint leader in the race 4 the Golden Boot, told manager Roberto Mancini he was happy 2 stay @ Eastlands.

"He has a 5-year contract & has told us he 1s 2 stay," Mancini said. But Tevez has now gone back on tat decision & appears 2 hv 1s again made up his mind tat a new challenge is wat he requires.

"I 1 2 leave ManC," Tevez told Argentina's Radio del Plata. "Football has changed a lot 4 me & I don't know if I will even make it 2 the next WC.

"And tat has nothing 2 do with whether I'm selected or not. I've been treated very well here & I'm grateful. I also gave my everything 4 the club 2 receive the results it has had. But I need a change of scene."

The likes of Inter Milan & Real Madrid hv been linked with the Argentina ace, who is believed 2 hv turned down a massive new deal fr City worth £300,000 earlier in the season.

As well as interest fr Italy & Spain, Tevez's former club Boca Juniors r reportedly ready 2 offer him a chance 2 return 2 his homeland, though the 4ward admitted the Argentinian side may not be able 2 afford him.

"2 go back 2 Boca Juniors would be beautiful but it is very difficult," Tevez said. "I spoke 2 their midfielder Roman Riquelme &, messing around, we agreed I would go back 1 day. But if we're speaking seriously, financial issues would make my return difficult."

Tevez left Boca Juniors 2 join Brazilian club Corinthians in 2004, since then he has moved 2 West Ham United, ManU & ManC.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/922170/man-city-close-in-on-japan-stars-yuki-abe-and-keisuke-honda?cc=4716

Man City in for two Japan stars

Japan internationals Keisuke Honda & Yuki Abe r lined up as the 1st new signings of ManC's ambitions 2 win the Premier League title & take on Europe's elite in the Champions League.

Linked with all the world stars fr Lionel Messi 2 CR, Roberto Mancini's 1st global assault takes place with City broadening their global reach.

Honda is rated 1 of the best footballers Japan has produced. The 4ward made an impact in the WC finals, alongside Yuki Abe in midfield.

Honda is currently with CSKA Moscow, while his close friend Abe has already sampled life in England & the game in tis country under Sven Goran Eriksson @ Leicester City.

Even though there has been absolutely 0 speculation abt either Japanese stars, an ESPNsoccernet insider says: "The deals r under way, & expect both players 2 be @ Eastlands."

Honda is a recognised global figure having come 2 the attention of Liverpool earlier in the season when Roy Hodgson was still manager. Honda been has linked with Arsenal since the WC, as well as AC Milan.

Honda started his career @ Gamba Osaka, the same club as former Arsenal player Junichi Inamoto, b4 moving on2 Nagoya Grampus 8.

Yuki Abe moved fr Urawa Red Diamonds 2 Leicester City but is now eager 2 join Honda @ Eastlands. He played in all of Japan's WC games b4 they lost 2 Paraguay in the 1st knockout round.

He was the youngest ever 2 play in the J-League when he made his debut in August 1998 & played a vital role in Urawa wining the 2007 Asian Champions League. The 29-year-old has made 36 appearances 4 Leicester tis season, scoring 1 goal.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/922690/roberto-mancini-calls-for-manchester-city-to-spend-again?cc=4716

Mancini calls for City to spend

Roberto Mancini saw ManC clinch automatic qualification 2 the group stages of the Champions League & immediately demanded a fresh injection of cash.

Mancini has shelled out huge sums on star names like Yaya Toure, David Silva & Edin Dzeko since taking charge & the reward is a place in Europe's premier club competition & FA Cup glory.

The club's aim is Premier League & Champions League glory,& Mancini has made it clear tat only an injection of fresh quality will achieve tat.

"We 1 2 buy other players 2 improve becos we need it," Mancini said. "In football you can spend a lot of money but you're not sure if you win.

"If you don't spend you won't win. Football is strange but if you buy good players & work hard you can win.

"It's been a fantastic season but now we hv 40 days 2 buy players who can help us improve."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/922943/man-city's-vincent-kompany-turns-attention-to-league-title?cc=4716

Kompany shifts focus to league title

ManC defender Vincent Kompany has vowed 2 get even closer 2 the Premier League title next year as supporters turned out in their thousands 2 acclaim their FA Cup winners.

At the end of a tumultuous campaign, City finished 3rd in the table, 9 points adrift of champions ManU, trailing runners-up Chelsea on goal difference alone.

It was good enough 2 secure a path straight thru 2 the group stages of the Champions League, which added 2 the end of their 35-year trophy drought completed an outstanding season 4 Roberto Mancini & his men.

But Kompany knows more is expected next term & b4 a parade tat started in Manchester city centre & ended with a massive firework display @ Eastlands, the Belgium defender spelled out the way 4ward.

''We had a good season but the reality is we didn't finish champions, so there is obviously a gap betw 1st place & 2nd & 3rd,'' he said. ''We will do everything we can 2 bridge tat gap. If the club decides 2 buy it will make sense but hopefully tis team will be stronger, regardless of tat.''

Kompany certainly does not feel any sense of inferiority when he assesses City's strengths against those of their rivals.

''There has been very little in our games with United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal & Tottenham,'' he said. ''We will do better next season than tis & the gap is going 2 get smaller.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/923229/man-city's-roberto-mancini-reiterates-need-to-spend-this-summer?cc=4716

Mancini reiterates need to spend

Aft securing a place in next season's Champions League, ManC boss Roberto Mancini insists the club must strengthen their squad tis summer in order 2 keep the pace on the continent & domestically.

Mancini, who guided City 2 their 1st silverware in 35 years by winning tis year's FA Cup, has also suggested tat City need 2 be more like illustrious cross-town rivals ManU, & will put tat point 4ward @ a meeting in Abu Dhabi with club chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak, on Tuesday.

"Look @ ManU," Mancini told the Sun. "They can play 11 men in a Champions League semi-final & then change nearly all those players 4 the league game.

"We don't 1 2 be like Tottenham who put all their energy in2 the Champions League &, aft tat, lost points in the league.

"We hv improved 200% in 1 year but now we r being asked 2 play & beat the likes of Barcelona. City need 2 improve, we need 2 buy other good players &, on top of tat, some young players who during the year can improve & come in2 the 1st team."

The meeting betw Mancini & Al Mubarak is expected 2 revolve around the Italian's desire 2 bring stars such as Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas & Udinese front-man Alexis Sanchez 2 Eastlands. City reportedly hv up to £120 million 2 spend on recruits b4 the new UEFA Financial Fair Play guidelines come in2 effect.

"If we 1 2 lessen the gap betw ourselves & the others we hv only 2 months. Last year all the players got 2gether late. I 1 all my players @ the beginning of July ready 2 go 4 pre-season," Mancini said.

Meanwhile, Mancini has denied claims tat he gave striker Mario Balotelli permission 2 return home early, with the enigmatic 20-year-old missing the club's FA Cup parade earlier tis week.

Balotelli has been surrounded by controversy since joining fr Inter Milan in 2010, & was allegedly caught by Italian television throwing water bombs @ Serie A club chiefs whilst his team-mates were attending the parade in Manchester on Monday.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/925345/man-city-rule-out-alexis-sanchez,-chase-napoli-trio?cc=4716

City rule out Sanchez, chase Napoli trio

ManC coach Attilio Lombardo claims tat the club hv given up on bringing Udinese winger Alexis Sanchez 2 the club, but r interested in Napoli trio Edinson Cavani, Marek Hamsik & Ezequiel Lavezzi.

Sanchez, 22, is tipped as 1 of the best young players in the game & has attracted the interest of Inter Milan & Juventus, who r in talks with Udinese over a summer move.

However, ManU & City hv also been linked with a move 4 the Chilean, although Lombardo believes he would be best 2 stay in Italy.

"It's true we did track Sanchez, but I think tis player is more suited 2 an Italian club right now," City coach Lombardo told Radio Crc.

City will, instead, turn their attentions 2 Napoli as they hv a host of stars who could move 2 Eastlands in the near future.

"I hope there can be some negotiations betw Napoli & ManC, especially as I'd see 1 of their 3 4wards would really suit City," Lombardo added. "The trio of Edinson Cavani, Marek Hamsik & Ezequiel Lavezzi would bring success 2 any club.

"Napoli hv very strong players, but I doubt they'd release Hamsik & Cavani @ the same time. ManC r tracking many players becos tis club 1s 2 do well, 2 win & 2 become the most important side in Europe. Napoli hv good players, so tat is why we r looking @ them."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/931835/robero-mancini-spells-out-manchester-city-transfer-wishlist?cc=4716

Mancini spells out transfer wishlist
July 3, 2011

Roberto Mancini has hinted tat ManC may be abt 2 go on a summer spending spree aft identifying a host of potential targets in Serie A, though the Italian claimed tat Carlos Tevez will remain @ Eastlands.

City finished 3rd in the Premier League last season but hv been surprisingly quiet since the transfer window opened, with Mancini yet 2 officially welcome any new additions.

Nonetheless, City r expected 2 strengthen their squad b4 the summer is out - with the backing of billionaire owner Sheikh Mansour - as Mancini tries 2 assemble a group capable of launching an assault on both the Premier League & Champions League titles.

The former Inter boss is confident tat club captain Tevez will be part of tat challenge 4 silverware & also revealed tat City r in the process of signing Partizan Belgrade defender Stefan Savic.

"Yes, of course Tevez will stay, he is a fantastic player," Mancini said. "There was talk of an exchange with [Samuel] Eto'o but Inter did not 1 2 sell. I would say a deal 4 Savic has been done, but [Samir] Nasri? No, not yet."

Eto'o & Nasri r 2 of a number of players linked with City, who appear 2 hv failed in their bid 2 sign Udinese winger Alexis Sanchez, & Mancini set the transfer rumour mill in2 overdrive when listing several Serie A stars he would be keen on bringing 2 the City of Manchester Stadium.

"I like Ezequiel Lavezzi, Marek Hamsik & Edinson Cavani," Mancini said. "I like Javier Pastore a little less. Then, when I think of Udinese, I can think of Pablo Armero & Mauricio Isla. And I must say Antonio Di Natale. It's a pity tat he is now getting on in years."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/932135/tevez:-i-want-to-leave-manchester-city?cc=4716

Tevez: I want to leave Manchester City
July 4, 2011

Carlos Tevez has 1s again asked 2 leave ManC.

Following a January stand-off with the club, Tevez now says he is finished with life @ Eastlands, & followed up some recent complaints abt Manchester life with a statement tat his family life is the reason behind his desire 2 quit.

Currently @ the Copa America with Argentina, Tevez, 27, says he spoke 2 City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak 2 explain his decision.

"It is with great regret tat I hv 2 inform ManC of my wish 2 leave the club. I would like 2 state tat I hv great respect 4 the club, its supporters & the owner, Sheik Mansoor, who has been nothing other than respectful 2 me," he told the Daily Mail.

"I hope tat the people understand the difficult circumstances I hv been living under the past 12 months, in regards 2 my family.

"Living without my children in Manchester has been incredibly challenging 4 me. Everything I do, I do 4 my daughters, Katie & Florencia. I need 2 be closer 2 them & 2 spend more time with them. I need them 2 be happy becos my life is abt them now. I need 2 be in a place where they can adapt.

"Being captain of ManC, qualifying 4 the Champions League, winning the FA Cup & finishing as top-scorer last season has made me very proud.

"I hope tat most of the City fans will understand tat I hv given them my all on the pitch & tat my dedication 2 the city cause has been 100 per cent on the pitch.

"I hope I hv done my bit 2 help City continue their progress 2wards their ambition 2 be champions of England & 2 advance in the Champions League. I hv no doubt tat the players & management of City will achieve great success in the future."

Despite tat desire 2 leave Eastlands, Tevez looks short of suitors. His move 2 City is said 2 hv cost the club £45 million, & they wish 2 gain a significant return on tat investment.

Links with Real Madrid hv gone cold of late, as has Juventus' interest & a recently-mooted swap with Inter Milan's Samuel Eto'o has also hit the skids.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/932568/hubbard-on-manchester-city%27s-carlos-tevez-problem?cc=4716

Can't live with him...
July 7, 2011

If it is a transfer window, it must be time 4 Carlos Tevez 2 publicly eye new pastures. If there is a sense of weary familiarity abt tis week's events @ ManC, it is understandable. Tevez has become as high maintenance off the field as he is high energy on it, a player who can create as many problems 4 his own club as he invariably causes 4 opposition defenders.

While City strike a bullish pose, declaring tat they 1 £50 million 4 their captain, the probability is tat they will be both better & far worse off w/o him. An end 2 the repetitive sagas abt the striker's future would be welcome along with a sense tat the club is populated by players who actually 1 2 be there.

In other respects, however, City r likely losers. Naming a price is 1 thing, commanding it is another altogether. A lack of plausible destinations benefits neither. Nor, indeed, does City's wealth. By paying over the odds 4 players, they hv created a situation where rivals aim 2 pay under the market value 2 entice arrivals fr Eastlands. Others r sufficiently savvy 2 know the licence City's involvement grants them. Such situations can develop in2 games of brinkmanship where it is a case of who - buyer, seller or footballer - blinks 1st.

City may argue otherwise, but leaving Tevez 2 rot in the reserves is not an option. Indeed there r very few options available: not ManU, 4 instance, while AC Milan & Chelsea r well-stocked with strikers, Arsenal & Tottenham hv wage structures & Barcelona hv little need 4 a player of even Tevez's calibre.

So, should Real Madrid or Inter Milan not stump up the fee desired, a cut-price deal or the sort of loan move tat took Emmanuel Adebayor 2 the Bernabeu in January is feasible. If normal footballing logic dictates tat the values of players who hv excelled escalates, City r the exception 2 the rule. With UEFA's Financial Fair Play rules a worrying presence on the horizon, the quest 2 recoup money is progressing slowly. But it is 1 thing making a loss on a player considered deadwood (4 some reason, Wayne Bridge's name comes 2 mind), another altogether 2 take such a hit on their top scorer & talisman.

Moreover, Tevez's importance makes him all but irreplaceable. It is not merely tat, with 43 goals, the Argentine is the most prolific player in the Premier League in the last 2 years; it is the context. While he managed 20 last season, none of his team-mates mustered more than half a dozen. With 4 goals in 3 games against Chelsea, he has cemented a reputation 4 scoring big goals tat was established @ both ManU & West Ham. A more recent habit is of scoring the game's 1st goal, setting City en route 2 victory.

In any 1-striker system, tat individual assumes a disproportionate significance. It has been exacerbated @ City by the contrast betw Tevez & the alternatives. A self-sufficient 4ward with a sense of responsibility, an ability 2 hold the ball up & commit defenders, a tireless runner & regular scorer, his attributes r rare.

While City managed 2 win an FA Cup semi-final & some crucial league games in his absence, the 4ward line looked more patched up than permanent. Edin Dzeko has appeared ponderous, lacking the pace 2 chase thru passes & thus open up space behind him 4 David Silva. Mario Balotelli's mercurial nature extends 2 his position: it is hard 2 call the Italian an out-&-out striker, given the wandering brief he normally adopts. Moreover, unlike Tevez, his goals invariably came against inferior opponents. The 1 4ward City own who has displayed the pedigree & natural athleticism 4 the lone 4ward's role is Adebayor, but the sense is tat his bridges hv already been burned.

Outside Eastlands, the list of potential successors is surprisingly brief. Tat City's premier attacking targets were Alexis Sanchez & Neymar is a microcosm of the elite market: most of the major talents r attacking midfielders, wingers or 2nd strikers, rather than men who prefer 2 lead the line. Most of the few who r natural occupants of a No. 9 shirt r contracted 2 the world's elite clubs; some hv snubbed City in the past. Among the anomalies, Falcao may soon join the ranks of the super-rich &, if City cannot hijack Juventus' move 4 another Argentine, Sergio Aguero, he should be out of reach as well.

If Tevez wanted 2 stay, tat would put him in a strong bargaining position. As he doesn't, the small man threatens 2 create a huge void in the City attack. A tendency 2 leave a trail of destruction in his wake has rendered them a more potent team, but it would make him a greater loss. Of Tevez, City may lament: can't live with him, can't live without him.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/932958/emmanuel-adebayor-furious-over-manchester-city-snub?cc=4716

Adebayor furious over City snub
July 8, 2011

Emmanuel Adebayor has launched a tirade against ManC bosses, accusing them of not being "man enough'' 2 formally explain tat he is not wanted.

Adebayor joined the club fr Arsenal for £25 million 2 years ago but was frozen out @ Eastlands last season & spent the 2nd half of the campaign on loan @ Real Madrid.

Aft expecting 2 link up with manager Roberto Mancini & the rest of his squad 4 pre-season, the 27-year-old now claims he has been omitted fr the club's tour of the US, but was only told by football director Brian Marwood's secretary.

He said in the Sun: "Tis is very hurtful & insulting & says alot abt ManC.

"On 1 hand they 1 2 become the biggest, most successful club in the world, yet the people who run the club r not acting in tat way @t all. No-1 @ City is man enough 2 speak 2 me face-2-face 2 explain.

"I just received an email fr Brian Marwood's secretary, a lady @ the club called Claire, telling me 2 report 4 training on July 9. But when I spoke 2 the other players, I found out the 1st team was leaving 4 the pre-season tour of the USA on July 8.

"So it's clear they don't 1 me here but no 1 even called. Brian Marwood just got his secretary 2 send me an email. And I heard tis was the same with @ least 6 other players''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/933063/manchester-city's-craig-bellamy-lifts-lid-on-robero-mancini-feud?cc=4716

Bellamy lifts lid on Mancini feud
July 8, 2011

Craig Bellamy has unleashed a blistering attack on ManC boss Roberto Mancini & revealed he will not go out on loan again tis season.

Bellamy, who is expected 2 be left behind when City's 1st-team fly 2 LA 4 a pre-season tour on Friday, revealed tat Mancini tore up Bellamy's personalised training regime when he took over fr Mark Hughes @ Eastlands.

"It was tough [when Hughes left], it felt like losing some1,'' he told the Daily Telegraph. ''It was probably as bad as losing a family member in some ways, I even struggled 2 eat 4 a few days.

"It was a totally different structure [under Mancini] which affected me completely. Mancini told me 2 stay with the team all the time. We had longer training sessions, but with no intensity whatsoever.

"He seemed 2 know my knee better than I knew it myself. He tried 2 explain why I had problems with it, & wat I should do abt it. When I told him tat my knee was hurting, he tried 2 tell me it wasn't.

"Mancini wanted me 2 come in another day & do some work, but I told him tat I'd finished my work tat day, tat I was keeping 2 my own schedule. Tat was when he started abt my programme, tat I couldn't follow my own schedule while he was the manager, & tat I had 2 do wat he was telling me.

"He said, 'If you don't, you can go back home now. And don't come back in again'. I replied, 'Okay, no problem, I'm going home then'. Tat was a week aft he'd arrived, & then he never spoke 2 me again.

"When I went in2 pre-season, the physio, Jamie Murphy, spoke 2 Mancini & told him tat I wasn't able 2 do alot of the things tat Mancini wanted, becos it would cause a reaction 2 my knee. Mancini 1s 2 hv it all."

Bellamy, 31, who spent last season on loan @ Cardiff City, has no intention of reducing his £80,000-per-week wages in order 2 engineer a move away fr Eastlands, where his contract expires next summer.

"2 be honest I don't 1 2 go on loan again, becos where would I go aft tat?" Bellamy added. "Aft another loan period my options would be probably reduced. A permanent move would be somewhere best, but it would hv 2 be somewhere wealthy, so I can guarantee future earnings 4 my charity, but tat would be difficult with my current wages.

"If they [City] pay me the final year of my wages, then I'm sure I can go wherever I 1. In tat case, my 1st option would be 2 Cardiff, 2 give it another go. But it has 2 be feasible, the financial health of the club is the most important thing.

"No chance [of reducing wages], tat is impossible. I hv my own academy [in Sierra Leone] where I hv 2 take care of 13 children, day in, day out. My wages r more important 2 them than they r 4 me.

"City r the richest club in the world. They work 2 a budget that no-1 else works 2, so they can write their own rules. Right now the club has got itself in a situation where alot of players hv 2 go on loan.

"Obviously it all depends on ManC. At present, I expect 2 go back there & stay the whole year. And if Roberto Mancini is still there, I'll do probably very little, obviously I won't be involved with him & the 1st team."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/933093/manchester-city's-ground-is-renamed-the-etihad-stadium?cc=4716

ManC rename stadium
July 8, 2011

ManC hv confirmed their City of Manchester Stadium will be renamed the Etihad Stadium with immediate effect.

City hv agreed a 10-year partnership agreement with Etihad Airways tat will "significantly expand the existing commercial relationship" betw the pair.

Etihad Airways alrdy sponsor the club's shirts, & tat deal has been extended as part of the agreement.

A statement on the club's official website read: "The City of Manchester Stadium will be renamed the Etihad Stadium effective immediately, forming the centre piece of a newly-named Etihad Campus, which encompasses a large part of the Sportcity site in East Manchester, the popular City Square entertainment space & additional existing & planned facilities."

City's CEO, Garry Cook, said: "We r delighted 2 be expanding our relationship with Etihad Airways thru tis comprehensive partnership agreement.

"Most importantly, in addition 2 delivering significant revenue @ a key stage in the club's evolution, the agreement creates exciting opportunities 4 our 2 organisations 2 cooperate more deeply commercially & on media & community initiatives in the future."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/933277/manchester-city-talking-to-uefa-about-financial-fair-play?cc=4716

City discussing FFP with UEFA
July 9, 2011

ManC chief executive Garry Cook has revealed there hv been conversations betw the club & UEFA over how they intend 2 meet new Financial Fair Play regulations.

Given the grandiose plans 4 land around the stadium, it is estimated Etihad Airways has pledged betwn £300 million & £400 million over the next 10 years 4 a range of projects tat include renaming City's home the Etihad Stadium.

Even so, it will not come close 2 wiping out losses in excess of £120 million posted in City's last accounts, 2 May 2010, which leave them in jeopardy of failing 2 meet FFP.

However, Cook has confirmed an open dialogue with European football's power brokers & given the Blues' "aggressive" commercial plans, the gap is closing quickly.

"We hv a very open dialogue with UEFA," Cook said. "We hv had several meetings with UEFA abt our plans & they r very supportive of ManC's ambition.

"There r many football clubs who hv the backdrop of regulation tat is being placed in2 the world of football. We r no different 2 any other football club."

A special Airbus-330, with a City livery, will fly betw Manchester & Abu Dhabi as part of the deal, which also includes an extension 2 Etihad's present shirt sponsorship & the renaming of an area around City's stadium, now known as the 'Etihad Campus'.

It all forms part of an ultra-ambitious plan 2 gatecrash Europe's elite clubs. Owner Sheikh Mansour has invested in excess of £1 billion so far, including the acquisition of the club 3 years ago, & has been rewarded with a place in next season's Champions League + the FA Cup, City's 1st trophy in 35 years.

He has already shelled out on 2 signings tis week in Gael Clichy & Stefan Savic, although tat duo would be eclipsed by the arrival of Samir Nasri, with fresh reports surfacing in Italy tat a fee has been agreed with Arsenal, which City r yet 2 respond 2.

Having made the mistake of trumpeting rather 2 loudly his view of City's future direction, & been left with egg on his face when ManU beat the Blues in a 2010 Carling Cup semi-final, Cook is wary of saying 2 much @ such an early stage of the summer.

"I hv got in2 trouble with tis 1 b4," he laughed. "We will look 2 continue our growth, on & off the pitch. Our ambition 4 next year means we r competing in a new competition - the Champions League - + the 3 others. We will endeavour 2 be successful in all 4."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/933293/bayern-munich-chief-feels-manchester-city-may-face-european-exile?cc=4716

Rummenigge issues City warning
July 9, 2011

Bayern Munich chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has criticised City 4 their refusal 2 discuss Jerome Boateng's sale & feels they may be denied the chance 2 play in the Champions League.

Boateng, who joined City for £10 million fr Hamburg last summer, struggled with injuries during his debut season in the Premier League & has made clear tat he would like 2 force thru a move 2 Bayern.

However, although the player has alrdy agreed the terms of a contract with Bayern, it appears a deal remains nowhere near complete.

"They r using a tactic I've never seen," Rummenigge said. "They don't respond, even if we try 2 contact them."

City hv already signed 2 defenders in the transfer window, Stefan Savic & Gael Clichy, & Rummenigge added: "I think they r going 2 hv 48 players under contract but according 2 Financial Fair Play they can hv only 25.

"According 2 their last balance sheet, if I'm correct, they're down £127 million. Maybe they still hv a trick up their sleeves but I'm not sure tat they will be permitted 2 play in the Champions League."

City chief executive Garry Cook has revealed the club has held a number of meetings with UEFA abt Financial Fair Play.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/933500/manchester-city-'puzzled'-by-bayern-munich-criticism?cc=4716

City reject Bayern claims
July 10, 2011

ManC say they r "puzzled" by Bayern Munich chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge's criticism of the club's conduct over Jerome Boateng.

Boateng has already agreed a 4-year contract 2 join Bayern, but City hv been reluctant 2 sell the defender. Rummenigge stoked the flames by saying City hv refused 2 enter talks over the sale, but they hv now insisted the issue is simply a matter of "wildly" different valuations.

A club spokesman told the Sunday Mirror: "Mr Rummenigge's claims r something of a puzzle 2 us as not 1 call fr Bayern Munich has been left unanswered & indeed a face-2-face meeting & several conversations hv taken place on the topic.

"A personal deal has clearly already been agreed by Bayern, directly with the player, but our respective valuations vary wildly."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/933621/denis-irwin-says-manchester-city-will-test-united-next-season?cc=4716

United legend Irwin wary of City slickers
July 11, 2011

Former ManU full-back Denis Irwin believes tat ManC will pose the greatest threat 2 the Old Trafford side's hopes of claiming a 20th league title next season.

Ahead of the opening game of United's pre-season tour of the USA, which takes place against New England Revolution on Wednesday, the Irishman recently told ESPNsoccernet of his belief tat, when the real games begin, the team fr Manchester's blue half will be the 1 2 watch.

He said: "4 the title, I think ManC will be a huge threat, particularly if they hang on 2 (Carlos) Tevez & sign a couple of quality players as well. They r getting better, the noisy neighbours, & it is going 2 be very interesting in Manchester next year."

United's visit 2 North America in 2010 saw the debuts in red of 2 hitherto unproven youngsters. 1 year on, Chris Smalling has emerged as an able deputy 4 Rio Ferdinand & Nemanja Vidic, while Javier Hernandez has established himself as a 1st-choice following a 20-goal debut season in England.

Irwin agrees with the comparisons which hv been drawn betw Hernandez & Ole Gunnar Solskjaer but adds that he sees the qualities of another of his former teammates in the Mexican.

"I'd compare him 2 (Andrew) Cole as well. He was such a quick player who made a lot of his own chances becos of how fast he was. I think Hernandez is very much like tat as well, he is a really rapid player," Irwin explained.

"He is like Ole 2, in tat he looks 2 play off the shoulder of the last defender & he knows where the goal is. Ole was a fantastic student of the game while Coley scored some great goals 4 us so a combination of both those players is really a plus."

Smalling & Hernandez have been joined by David De Gea, Phil Jones & Ashley Young as Sir Alex Ferguson continues 2 reshape his squad. As youth comes in2 Old Trafford, a number of experienced faces hv left the club & there has been speculation tat another, Dimitar Berbatov, may also be sold.

However, despite the omission of the Premier League's joint top-scorer fr the matchday squad 4 the Champions League final, Irwin expects the Bulgarian 2 remain in Ferguson's plans.

"I know (Berbatov) didn't get much playing time in the last 3 of 4 months of the season but he is a very important player 4 United. You can't just go moving out players willy-nilly. He is a fantastic player & I expect him 2 stay," said Irwin.

Retirements will deprive United of 2 of tis season's title-winners. Paul Scholes has hung up his boots aft 676 matches & will now take on a coaching role with the club. Meanwhile, Irwin compares the task of replacing Edwin van der Sar with tat of finding a successor 2 Peter Schmeichel in 1999, aft which a number of goalkeepers were given a chance 2 claim the number 1 shirt, with varying degrees of success.

Irwin said:"It's going 2 be very hard, very, very hard. I remember 2 well. Big Pete was a monster of a keeper 4 us. When you get a back 4 or back 5 tat play so often 2gether, they develop a great understanding. In our case, we knew wat he would do on crosses, he was a fantastic shot-stopper.

"Van der Sar had an unbelievably good 6 seasons @ United. He was great with both feet & made very few mistakes which is wat u 1. He had very good concentration levels as well. Sometimes @ United u only hv 2 make 1 or 2 saves every game but they r important ones."

1 veteran who will continue 4 @ least 1 more season is Ryan Giggs & Irwin is impressed with the way the veteran Welshman has evolved as a player since he made his debut as a 17-year-old substitute in March 1991.

"He actually came on 4 me against Everton - it's a long time ago! 2 play 4 tis club @ the highest level for 20 years is some achievement. He was a left winger & then had 2 kind of reinvent himself a little bit," reflected Irwin.

"The game has got quicker & more physical with bigger players but he has shown he can play off the front man or in central midfield. He played left-back @ West Ham (in April) so it just shows the ability he has got."

United's 19th title took the club past Liverpool in2 1st place on the list of English champions. However, hopes of a 4th European Cup triumph were dashed by Barcelona @ Wembley.

"We had such a good season," said Irwin. "We won the league by 9 points & our home record was great but we came up against a Barcelona team tat is probably the best I hv seen of any teams, certainly in my day. You just hv 2 look @ the names: (Andres) Iniesta, (David) Villa, Xavi, (Lionel) Messi. We got well beaten on the night & I think everybody has held their hands up & said they were much better."

Irwin concedes tat the current Barcelona side is playing @ a level 'it might take 2 or 3 years 2 reach. He also admits tat the 2 great United teams 4 which he played would hv taken very different approaches 2 stopping Pep Guardiola's men.

He said: "The 1994 team, had we played them, would hv tried 2 kick them! The game was different then & we had some tough players: (Roy) Keane, (Paul) Ince, (Steve) Bruce, (Gary) Pallister. Paul Parker was a fantastic man-marker so maybe he could hv taken Messi. With Giggs & Kanchelskis we had a lot of good pace as well 2 go with the tough lads.

"The 1999 side was very attacking. We won the European Cup final despite our 2 best players not playing. So it's very difficult 4 me 2 say but, certainly, if we had played Barcelona in 1994, we would hv tried 2 kick them!"

Catching Barcelona is 1 of the greatest challenges faced by Ferguson, who will celebrate 25 years as United manager in November. The Scot turns 70 the following month but Irwin is in no doubt tat his old boss is ready 2 take on the test.

"(Ferguson) leads the club by example," reflected Irwin. "He's 1st in2 training, his desire & hunger r there 2 see &, if any player doesn't match tat, he will soon on his way. When the players come in 4 pre-season, he will spell out wat is expected of them.

"It's a winning mentality & all of tat comes fr the manager. His man-management is great & he is steeped in football knowledge as well but it is his determination & desire 2 win trophy aft trophy aft trophy every year tat comes back every pre-season."

Aft New England, United face MLS clubs fr Seattle & Chicago, followed by the league's all-stars in New Jersey. The tour ends on July 30 with a friendly against Barcelona on the outskirts of Washington, D.C. The encounter will provide another reminder of the benchmark set by the Catalan giants, 1 which Ferguson will hope 2 reach in Munich next May.

B4 then, domestic duty will take priority 4 the champions &, while Irwin does not rule out Chelsea, Arsenal or Liverpool fr a title race he believes could be the tightest in years, of all the pretenders 2 ManU's throne, it is their cross-city rivals who represent the biggest danger.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/933880/kia-joorabchian:-carlos-tevez's-corinthians-move-is-close?cc=4716

Joorabchian: Tevez deal is close
July 12, 2011

The agent of wantaway 4ward Carlos Tevez, Kia Joorabchian, has confirmed tat discussions r underway 4 the transfer of the Argentine 2 Corinthians.

News broke on Monday night tat the Brazilian club had tabled a bid of €40 million 4 the striker, who has expressed his desire 2 leave ManC & return 2 South America 2 be closer 2 his family.

Corinthians hv until July 20 to complete the transfer, which is when the international transfer window 4 Brazilian clubs closes.

"Negotiations hv already begun. Corinthians r in contact with us," said Joorabchian. "His [Tevez] dream & mine is 2 see him back with Corinthians. He said he has a job tat does not end there, he 1s 2 return becos he has the dream of winning the Copa Libertadores.

"Corinthians hv made the offer, now it depends only on ManC. The City has 2 make a decision.

"Everybody is working 2 make tis happen, I, Corinthians, Tevez, Adrian Ruocco [the other agent who works 4 Tevez]. It is impossible 2 determine the situation, but I think it is close."

Joorabchian also claimed tat Tevez would only ever sign 4 2 clubs in South America.

"Carlos will not play 4 any other Brazilian club than Corinthians, tat is an absolute certainty," he told ESPN Brasil. "Boca Juniors & Corinthians r in his heart. He would only play 4 these 2 clubs if he goes back 2 Brazil & Argentina.

"Football in Brazil has changed, grown. His dream was always 2 return 2 the Corinthians, & tis time there is a possibility."

Corinthians' director of football Duilio Monteiro Alves added that he was hopeful of completing a deal b4 the Brazilian transfer window closes: "I don't 1 2 get our fans' hopes up. We'll try ... tat's all I can say. [Signing Tevez] isn't impossible. It's a dream we're trying 2 realise."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/934088/arsene-wenger-feels-manchester-city-deal-threatens-ffp-credibility?cc=4716

Wenger questions City deal
July 13, 2011

Arsene Wenger believes ManC's new sponsorship deal threatens 2 undermine the credibility of UEFA's Financial Fair Play plan.

UEFA president Michel Platini is bringing in rules 2 prevent clubs spending beyond their means & limiting the contributions of wealthy owners, & it was felt tat City - who lack the marketing appeal of the likes of Real Madrid & ManU - would struggle 2 comply with the regulations.

However, City hv been boosted by their the record sponsorship deal with Etihad Airlines, which sees the stadium renamed, the shirt sponsorship extended, & the company given input in2 a forthcoming training centre close 2 the ground close 2 the stadium.

Reports hv put the value of the deal betw £300 million & £400 million. With Etihad being Abu Dhabi's airline, & City owner Sheikh Mansour coming fr the capital of the UAE, some hv suggested the figure has been artificially inflated.

Arsenal agreed a far inferior sponsorship deal with Emirates airline in 2004, & Wenger believes the apparent enormity of City's agreement indicates an attempt 2 get around the UEFA regulations.

"It raises the real question abt the credibility of the Financial Fair Play," he said. "They give us the message tat they can get around it by doing wat they 1. The difficulty & the credibility of the Financial Fair Play is @ stake.

"If Financial Fair Play is 2 hv a chance, the sponsorship has 2 be @ the market price. It cannot be doubled, tripled or quadrupled. If they bring the rules in they hv 2 be respected.

"He [Platini] is very strongly determined on tat. He is not stupid, he knows tat some clubs will try 2 get around tat.

"@ the moment I believe they r studying, behind closed doors, how they can really strongly check it. Tat is his big test."

A City spokesman has since denied the deal is as valuable as claimed & dismissed Wenger's remarks as "unfounded & regrettable".

"The financial details of the comprehensive agreement announced last week betw ManC & Etihad Airways remain confidential & figures being speculated abt r not accurate," a club spokesman said.

"ManC is a pro-active member of the European Clubs Association & is working actively & with transparency with regard 2 Financial Fair Play. In light of these facts, recent comments abt the partnership by some observers r unfounded & regrettable."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/934421/man-city-striker-emmanuel-adebayor-talks-up-real-madrid-return?cc=4716

Adebayor talks up Real Madrid return
July 14, 2011

Emmanuel Adebayor has welcomed comments fr Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho hinting the Togolese 4ward is more likely 2 move 2 the Bernabeu tis summer than Neymar or Sergio Aguero.

And the wantaway ManC striker, who played on loan @ Real 4 the 2nd half of last season, is determined 2 return 2 Spain & end his nightmare spell @ Eastlands.

Having been a regular starter under former City boss Mark Hughes, Adebayor fell well down the pecking order aft Roberto Mancini replaced the Welshman & has found himself exiled in Manchester, where he is currently training alone.

But things appear 2 be looking up 4 Adebayor, 27, aft Mourinho's recent assertion & he says he would be delighted 2 be reunited with the Portuguese manager.

"We talked b4 we went on vacation," Adebayor told AS. "He said he was calm, tat he wanted me 2 stay. If he called me right now, I would catch the 1st plane out 2 LA [where Real r currently on their pre-season tour]. And if I could play 3 or 4 years in Madrid, I would retire @ the club.

"I'm hoping & working 2wards my dream. I only 1 2 return 2 Real Madrid. I will wait 4 his call. [Mourinho] gave me the confidence I needed, made me believe in myself, enjoy football again. We were convinced we could win titles, which was mportant. He created a great environment.

"I talk 2 [Karim] Benzema almost every day - yesterday we talked 4 a while. I've been in touch with Marcelo, Cristiano [Ronaldo]. They r good friends.

"[Mourinho] is the best coach I've ever worked with, no doubt, & Madrid will win titles with him. I would love 2 play under him again & I say, 'I'm here if you need me'. If we do not meet again, I wish him & the club well & I say tis wholeheartedly: 'I owe you 1'."


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/934494/patrick-vieira-retires-and-takes-on-role-with-manchester-city?cc=4716

Vieira quits 4 City role
July 14, 2011

Patrick Vieira has retired fr football & taken on a role as football development executive @ ManC.

Vieira, 35, joined City fr Inter Milan in January 2010 to help provide leadership & experience, but his contract expired tis summer.

He told the club's official website: "Tis role is a fantastic new challenge 4 me & I m very grateful 2 ManC 4 offering me tis opportunity.

"I hv alot 2 learn abt the non-playing areas of the business but there r many very experienced ppl here 4 me 2 learn fr & I m confident tat I can make a significant contribution 2 the club's ongoing success.

"I m particularly pleased 2 be given the opportunity 2 work with the club's community scheme.

"Everyone @ ManC - the fans, the staff & the players - hv made me & my family feel very welcome here over the past 2 years & I m very happy 2 hv been given the chance 2 stay & develop my career away fr the pitch."

Brian Marwood, City's chief operations officer, added: "Patrick is the ultimate professional & it is our very great privilege 2 introduce him as our new football development executive. His experience in the world of football is virtually unparalleled & he will be a huge asset 2 our club as old & young alike benefit fr his knowledge.

"His contribution 2 world football during his time as a player was extraordinary & he will be remembered as 1 of the greatest players 2 grace the Premier League. Whilst it is sad 2 see Patrick's playing career come 2 an end, we r delighted tat he has chosen 2 extend his time with ManC in tis new capacity."

Vieira enjoyed a glittering career 4 club & country. With Arsenal, he won the Premier League 3 times & the FA Cup 4 while, with Inter, he secured 4 Serie A titles. With France, he won the World Cup in 1998 & Euro 2000.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger reacted 2 the news of Vieira's retirement by hailing his former charge as a "special" player, who contributed 2 1 of the club's most successful eras.

Wenger said: "You can only hv lot of respect 4 wat Patrick has achieved. His career is sensational. He was an exceptional player 4 us.''

"We hv classy players in midfield now but Patrick was special. He was a tall player with good technique,'' Wenger told the club's website.

"We hv exceptional players in midfield with their own character. But @ Arsenal we will be 4ever grateful 4 Patrick's contribution.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/934777/manchester-city:-no-bid-for-carlos-tevez,-despite-juventus-claims?cc=4716

City: No Juve bid for Tevez
July 15, 2011

ManC hv said they hv not received a bid fr Juventus 4 Carlos Tevez, despite Corinthians president Andres Sanchez claiming one of £45 million had been made.

Sanchez revealed tat City were considering Juve's bid, as well as Corinthians' offer of £35 million, but a ManC spokesman told ESPNsoccernet: "We haven't had anything fr Juventus".

Tevez is keen 2 return 2 South America 2 be closer 2 his family & Sanchez maintained early on Friday tat: "Nothing has changed. They (ManC) hv 2 decide whether 2 sell or not. They hv a proposal for €52 million (£45 million) fr Juventus, but Tevez does not 1 2 stay in Europe.

"I keep dreaming. I made the offer in the end, even I was surprised. But it now depends on City. If I m president of a club tat has Tevez then I would not 1 2 sell. But the word of the player has a lot of weight.

"You see tat when the player 1s 2 leave, he will leave anyway. In football, contracts were made 2 be broken."

Sanchez also claimed tat the club hv a plan in place tat will make them 1 of the biggest clubs in the world inside 5 years.

"Within 3 or 4 years, Brazilian soccer is going 2 be the world's richest. Just do the accounts," he said. "The Corinthians hv a recipe that no-1 imagined 2 years ago. Corinthians will be, financially speaking, 1 of the world's strongest teams."

Juventus had been looking 2 make a move 4 Sergio Aguero, the Atletico Madrid striker who is keen 2 leave the club tis summer. However, the Argentine has now been linked with a move 2 City to replace his fellow countryman should he leave.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/934898/yaya-toure-says-manchester-city-expect-to-win-the-title?cc=4716

Yaya expects title success
July 15, 2011

Yaya Toure has revealed ManC r expecting 2 win the Premier League title tis season.

City hv finally broken in2 the Champions League aft finishing 3rd last term, & they hv already added Gael Clichy & Stefan Savic 2 the squad tis summer with a big-name signing such as Sergio Aguero expected 2 follow.

Toure knows tat things will be more demanding as they compete in Europe's top club competition, but he believes City will win the title 4 the 1st time since 1967-68.

"The new season will be very, very hard & we need 2 improve, becos tis season the club will play in the Champions League," he told the club's official website.

"And we expect 2 stay in the top 4 of the Premier League & we expect 2 win the Premier League becos now we r coming with more confidence, the players know each other better. I think tis year will be fantastic 4 us."

City will be boosted by the return of Yaya's brother, Kolo, in September when he completes his 6-month suspension aft failing a drug test.

Yaya said: "Kolo's well. He's in New York with the family. We hope September will come quickly & we hope 2 help the club win something again next year.

"Now I think he's more happy than anybody becos he will come quickly back 2 the team, & 4 the team we need him becos we know the Premier League is very hard & we need 2 hv 2 or 3 players per position."

Toure has also tipped 17-year-old Spanish teenager Denis Suarez, who signed fr Celta Vigo earlier in the summer, 2 make an impact.

"He's a midfield player with very, very good quality," he said. "He's young & he has an amazing ability 2 take the ball, like all the Spanish players, & I think it's fantastic 4 the club."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/934963/man-city's-roberto-mancini-in-for-samir-nasri,-sergio-aguero?cc=4716

Mancini hopes over Aguero and Nasri
July 16, 2011

ManC boss Roberto Mancini is hopeful of signing Arsenal's Samir Nasri "b4 the end of the month" & confirmed his interest in Sergio Aguero.

Although Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has insisted Nasri, who has only 12 months remaining on his contract, will still be @ the Emirates next term, Mancini is determined 2 push thru the transfer.

Arsenal r well aware tat if they do not sell Nasri during the current transfer window they could lose 1 of their star players 4 nothing next summer. And with City reportedly prepared 2 pay £27 million 2 land the France international it is an offer the North London club will find hard 2 resist.

Mancini told Sky Sports News: "Samir is under contract with Arsenal. Also 4 Samir it depends on many things.

"I don't know in tis moment, I don't know the situation but 4 Nasri it is difficult.

"I hope tat we can buy becos we need other players, & I hope tat tis player can arrive b4 the end of the month.''

Mancini has also set his sights set on Atletico Madrid striker Aguero aft City received an improved £40 million bid 4 Carlos Tevez fr Brazilian club Corinthians.

City turned down a £35 million bid 4 the Argentina international earlier tis week & r thought 2 be holding out for £50 million, but Mancini appears resigned 2 losing his skipper in turning his attentions 2 Aguero.

Despite Corinthians claiming Juventus had made a formal offer 4 Tevez, ManC insist they hv not received any formal bids 4 the striker fr any European clubs. Tevez, who played 4 Corinthians b4 moving 2 West Ham in 2006, is keen 2 return 2 Brazil.

If City accept Corinthians' final bid, Mancini is likely 2 pursue Tevez's international team-mate Aguero, who has made it clear he does not 1 2 stay @ Atletico. "Aguero is a player tat can play 4 ManC becos he is young & he is a good player like Carlos," Mancini said. "He can score alot of goals & can play with Mario [Balotelli], with Edin [Dzeko]...it could be [possible]."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/934969/corinthians-make-improved-offer-for-manchester-city's-carlos-tevez?cc=4716

Corinthians lodge second Tevez bid
July 16, 2011

Corinthians hv made an improved offer 4r ManC striker Carlos Tevez.

Corinthians saw a €40 million (£35 million) bid turned down by City earlier tis week, with the Premier League club said 2 be seeking a fee nearer £50 million.

ESPNsoccernet understands tat the Brazilian team hv upped their proposal to €40 million + €4 million in add-ons. City r tempted by the terms although they could look 2 negotiate further.

Corinthians r under pressure 2 wrap up a deal b4 Wednesday, when Brazil's international transfer window closes. Juventus hv also been mooted as suitors, but no official offer has been forthcoming fr the Italian team.

It is reported tat City hv concerns over how the South American club will finance the deal, but Kia Joorabchian has insisted they hv the funds vailable, citing sponsorship & TV rights money.

City manager Roberto Mancini is already plotting 4 life without Tevez aft confirming he will look 2 bring in the Argentina international's compatriot Sergio Aguero fr Atletico Madrid.

Should Aguero arrive @ Eastlands as Tevez's replacement, the 23-year-old will hv big shoes 2 fill - the latter having scored 44 Premier League goals in 66 outings(66%) since arriving fr ManU in 2009.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/934466/alexander-netherton:-manchester-city's-rush-for-glory-is-risky?cc=4716

City flirting with self-sabotage
July 17, 2011

ManU r overhauling their squad aft letting squad players go & seeing Edwin Van Der Saar & Paul Scholes retire. Chelsea 1 the subtlety of Luka Modric 2 continue the renewal of their squad aft the January purchases of David Luiz & Fernando Torres.

However, as ManC start the season, they'll hv 2 spend most of their time not looking 2 improve, but resolving errors of the previous years. 4 a side tat is so used 2 calamity, it's perhaps no surprise tat even $ hasn't solved their tendency 2wards self-sabotage. Perhaps, more fairly, going fr strugglers 2 title ambitions so quickly was always going 2 be a messier bz than a billionaire owner, & fans, would hope.

Most pressingly, the brains trust of Garry Cook, Brian Marwood & Roberto Mancini hv 2 replace Carlos Tevez. As much as the move was inevitable - Tevez is a consistent agitator 4 all his self-conscious crowd pleasing - the fact is tat he is almost impossible 2 replace.

On the pitch @ least, he is committed , selfless & in the finest form of his career. City will expect tat Edin Dzeko is more likely than not 2 finally succeed. However, even if he finds form it would be foolish 2 begin the season with just Dzeko & Mario Balotelli, the darts & women's prison fanatic.

They hv other strikers. 1 is Emmanuel Adebayor, ostracised 2 the point of no return. They hv Craig Bellamy, cut out becos he puts his knees b4 Mancini's training demands. They hv Roque Santa Cruz, a man with 1 good season in the last 5. Jo is now a striker whose potential has now been swapped 4 regret, each loan move generating nothing more than diminishing returns.

All r on wages so high tat any potential buyers simply cannot afford them. Tat so few clubs r willing 2 take a risk on these pricey & variously spoilt players, highlights the short sightedness of ManC's policy.

Having 2 accommodate unwanted players - even 2 train with the youth team - isn't just bad 4 morale. Unhappy players will pass on their dissent 2 other squad members, but it is also a drain on financial resources. As rich as ManC r, Financial Fair Play potentially means tat it's no longer sustainable 2 keep hold of disgruntled talent. Tis is potentially not such a disaster 4 City as it might be 4 other clubs aft they signed a £400 million deal with Etihad 2 rename their council-owned stadium.

Difficulties may arise should the agreement falls thru. If common sense prevails, & there's no guarantee it will, an outrageously overpriced sponsorship deal betw 2 state-owned companies should be seen as a slight-of-hand trick, & not a genuine business deal. Their Abu Dhabi wealth has bought them their league position, some very talented players, & entry 2 the Champions League. However, if they r going 2 make a significant impact on Europe, they need @ least 3 far superior players. ManC's problem is tat beyond $, they just can't offer wat their rivals can.

2 the players tat would markedly improve them, who r available, they r not the most attractive club. Wesley Sneijder would rather join ManU, & Samir Nasri was rumoured 2 think the same. Luka Modric has his heart set on Chelsea. If they get Samir Nasri, it's not becos he 1s 2 join ManC, it's becos Arsene Wenger will hv succeeded in keeping him out of United's clutches.

Money is enough 2 buy most available players, but it rarely persuades those of the quality tat separates title winners fr runners-up. ManU & Barcelona offer the best chance of trophies, & point 2 regular achievement on every front. Real Madrid, 2, hv the same prestige. 4 City there is no quick fix 2 bridge tis gap. The focus needed is simply spread 2 thin, as they resolve 1 problem aft another.

There r deeper problems. With the requirements of certain number of young, home-grown players, City r struggling. ManU & Barcelona both hv a common sense approach here. Barcelona invest heavily in developing their own & United buy the best young players.

Vladimir Weiss & Stefan Savic are excellent prospects, but there's nobody else confidently expected 2 break thru, & there's little emphasis on youth getting its chance either. Micah Richards might be cited as the exception 2 tat rule. However, Micah Richards is 1 of the weakest players in the 1st team.

While emerging players r cheaper 2 sign, they bring an additional benefit. Young players refresh a squad, & push senior players perform 2 keep their place. It's not a disastrous situation, but a lack of it adds 2 a sense of stagnation.

Unless City hv an exceptionally efficient solution, tis year may be 1 4 consolidation. The worry is tat although all these matters will take time 2 resolve, time is just 1 of the requirements. Plenty of clubs plan 4 the future, invest in infrastructure & aim 4 Europe, but few ever achieve anything of note.

It can take a genius 2 deliver sustained success, & City definitely don't hv tat yet. ManC might hv impressive ambitions, but their plan 2 achieve them so quickly will ultimately hold them back.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/935291/corinthians-bid-for-carlos-tevez-accepted?cc=4716

Corinthians' bid for Tevez accepted
July 18, 2011

Roberto Mancini has confirmed tat ManC hv agreed a fee with Brazilian club Corinthians 4 the sale of Carlos Tevez.

City hv accepted a bid in excess of £40 million aft rejecting an initial appoach by Corinthians 4 last season's joint-top scorer in the Premier League.

City r currently on a pre-season tour of the US & following their win over Club America, Mancini confirmed a deal had been struck.

"We hv an agreement with Corinthians but Carlos now is still a City player," Mancini said.

Asked whether Tevez would now be allowed 2 discuss personal terms, Mancini said: "I don't know tis. I repeat, @ the moment, Carlos is still a City player.

"I 1 2 wait. @ the moment we r here, we r working with the other guys. We should think abt tis.''

Corinthians will hv 2 move quickly 2 complete any deal 4 Argentina striker Tevez, who is keen 2 return 2 South America 2 be closer 2 his family, as Brazil's international transfer window closes on Wednesday.

If a deal is struck 2 take Tevez back 2 the club he won the Campeonato Brasileiro with in 2005, City r likely 2 target Atletico Madrid 4ward Sergio Aguero as a replacement & the 23-year-old Argentine will hv big shoes 2 fill.

Tevez has become a City icon since joining fr arch-rivals ManU in 2009 & his goals inspired them 2 FA Cup glory last season, as well as a 3rd-place finish & qualification 4 the 2011-12 UEFA Champions League.

The talismanic 4ward has scored 52 goals in 81 appearances 4 City, but has been regularly linked with a move away fr the club over the past 12 months; ahead of tis year's January transfer window he made & then withdrew a transfer request & again expressed his desire 2 leave 2 weeks ago.

Tevez has also previously been linked with Juventus, Inter Milan & Real Madrid but has maintained tat his motivation 4 moving is 2 be closer 2 his daughters.

"Living without my children in Manchester has been incredibly challenging 4 me," Tevez said earlier tis month. "Everything I do, I do 4 my daughters, Katie & Florencia. I need 2 be closer 2 them & 2 spend more time with them."

City defender Joleon Lescott admitted he would be disappointed 2 see Tevez depart but understood his wishes.

Lescott told Sky Sports News: "We'll be disappointed if Carlos leaves but it was down 2 the club & Carlos wat was best 4 each other & they hv come 2 an agreement so I wish both parties all the best.

"Carlos is his own man. Last season he played to 110% every game so none of us will be holding any grudges 2wards him & we'll wish him all the best if he does leave."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/935775/carlos-tevez-corinthians-deal-hits-hurdle?cc=4716

Tevez transfer deal collapses
July 20, 2011

The deal betw ManC & Corinthians 4 striker Carlos Tevez appears 2 hv collapsed, with the Brazilian club revealing they r unable 2 make the 1st payment immediately.

Corinthians now say they r in no position 2 make an up-front payment, & with the transfer window in Brazil closing on Wednesday, the club hv made a statement on their official website suggesting the Argentine will hv 2 remain with City until @ least next January.

"The board of Sporting Club Corinthians hereby officially announce the impossibility of hiring the Argentine striker Carlos Tevez," the statement said.

"While acknowledging the efforts of ManC & all involved in the negotiation, more time is needed 4 the transfer 2 be achieved, given tat the window 2 sign players fr abroad closes on Wednesday, July 20.

"There is no more sufficient time 4 the transfer 2 go thru. We r aware our fans wanted Tevez 2 join our club again & we hope we can hv the player with us in the future."

It is understood City requested Corinthians make their 1st payment b4 the transfer is completed, instead of early in 2012 as stated in the Sao Paulo club's original offer, forcing negotiations 2 stall.

Corinthians' director of football, Duilio Monteiro Alves, earlier confirmed the negotiations were not going well, saying: "I'm pessimistic. City 1 us 2 start the payments now, & we cannot do tat."

Adrian Ruocco, Tevez's attorney added: "Regrettably, judging fr the pace of negotiations right now, it is improbable tat we will come 2 any agreement with Corinthians," he told Lancenet.

"The only thing tat stands in the way of a deal is tis matter abt the 1st installment. But we will wait until Wednesday, tat is the only thing we can do."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/935845/mario-balotelli:-we-can-cope-without-carlos-tevez-at-man-city?cc=4716

Balotelli: We can cope without Tevez
July 20, 2011

Mario Balotelli is hoping ManC team-mate Carlos Tevez decides 2 stay @ Eastlands but insists the club will be able 2 cope shld the talismanic Argentine leave.

The Tevez transfer saga took a new twist on Wednesday when Corinthians pulled out of a move 2 sign him, leaving the 4mer ManU star's future very much up in the air.

He has consistently stated over the past few months tat he 1s 2 leave City 2 move closer 2 his family in South America, but tat now looks unlikely 2 materialise.

The latest development in his Tevez's protracted departure fr Eastlands appears 2 leave him in limbo, but Balotelli says the club will be able 2 move 4ward whether he stays or goes.

"It does not matter if Carlos is here or not," Balotelli said. "If Carlos is here it's good, while if he goes away I'm sure some1 else will arrive.

"But how I play is all down 2 me. It doesn't matter who else is @ ManC.

"Carlos is a great player, so I hope he's going 2 stay. But I've seen great players leave clubs b4. It happened @ Inter. Tis is football.

"We hv a good team here. If a player 1s 2 leave it's his decision but we'll still be a good team."

Balotelli polarised opinion during a tumultuous 1st season @ City but is confident he will be able 2 improve on his 10 goals in 2010-11 when the new campaign starts.

"I hope there will be a lot of goals 2 come fr me tis season," he said. "I thought my 1st season was so-so. I know I can score alot more. I will show City fans tis season wat I can do."


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/935821/spurs-boss-harry-redknapp-eyes-loan-deal-for-emmanuel-adebayor-?cc=4716

Redknapp eyes Adebayor loan
July 20, 2011

Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has confirmed his interest in Emmanuel Adebayor, but only if ManC r prepared 2 loan out the 4ward.

Adebayor is well down the pecking order @ City, having spent the 2nd half of last season on loan @ Real Madrid.

The Togo 4ward has spoken positively abt returning 2 the Spanish club & Real manager Jose Mourinho has not given up on Adebayor, but he has another potential option available 2 him.

Redknapp is working hard 2 keep Luka Modric @ the club, but he is also looking @ new faces & has spoken 2 Spurs chairman Daniel Levy abt the possibility of bringing in a player who 1s starred 4 their bitter north London rivals Arsenal.

"He is a name tat was mentioned & I spoke 2 the chairman abt the player, abt the possibility of loaning him, but whether they [City] would loan him I don't know," Redknapp told a press conference.

"If they would loan him he would be of interest. He is a quality player. We will wait & see."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/936191/david-beckham-feels-?cc=4716

Beckham: One team in Manchester
July 21, 2011

David Beckham has laughed off suggestions tat ManC could usurp United as the city's prominent side, insisting "there's only 1 team in Manchester".

Beckham watches events @ his former club unravel fr afar nowadays, as he continues his attempt 2 lead the LA Galaxy 2 MLS success. He will, however, come in2 contact with City on Saturday, when the Galaxy play host 2 a high-profile friendly.

Having finished 3rd in the Premier League & won the FA Cup last season, City r widely tipped 2 provide a stern challenge 2 United's crown in the 2011-12 campaign. Carlos Tevez's future is currently in limbo, but Roberto Mancini is still expected 2 press ahead with the signing of world class Argentina 4ward Sergio Aguero.

Beckham forces himself 2 admit tat City r becoming major players in England's top flight, but he told fans of the club not 2 kid themselves tat they r on the verge of eclipsing United.

Asked if he is tipping City 2 become title contenders, Beckham replied on Sky Sports News: "I shouldn't answer! They're bringing good players in, they've got strong people with alot of money behind them, so they're going 2 improve.

"But they'll never be ManU. They might be a threat tis season, but United hv got the history, the silverware over the last 20 years. There's only 1 team in Manchester, but City I'm sure will be a team 2 look @ going 4ward."

Asked for his opinion on Tevez, who has stressed his desire 2 return 2 South America - only 2 see a move 2 Corinthians collapse - Beckham is convinced the City board will spend $ regardless of wat happens with their star striker.

"Tevez was a really strong player 4 them last season, so if they lose him it will be disappointing. But they've got alot behind them as an organisation, so they can afford 2 bring world class players in. If they continue 2 do tat I'm sure they'll be strengthened."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/936362/roberto-mancini-wants-new-signings?cc=4716

Mancini wants new signings
July 22, 2011

ManC manager Roberto Mancini says he is looking 2 bring in 2 or 3 quality players 2 the club, regardless of whether 1-away skipper Carlos Tevez is sold.

Mancini is believed 2 be on the verge of making an offer 4 Sergio Aguero, as the Atletico Madrid front-man is seen as the perfect replacement 4 his Argentina strike partner. However, the City boss has indicated tat he would be willing 2 bring in Aguero even if Tevez remains @ Eastlands.

"I think it is really difficult 2 buy any players becos all the good teams 1 these players,'' Mancini said on Sky Sports News.

"But I hope tat b4 the game against [Manchester] United [in the Community Shield on August 7] we can hv all these players.

"We hv 2, 3 targets but it depends. We need 2 improve becos we r @ the moment a few players [short] 4 competition & we need 2 hv other players.''

4 the time being @ least, Mancini still has Tevez & the manager is adamant he is still welcome @ the club.

"At the moment Carlos is still a City player, like yesterday, like 3 days ago,'' he said.

"In the future we will see wat can happen. But 4 us Carlos is an important player.

"Carlos 1s 2 leave, 1s 2 go back 2 Argentina or maybe another country 4 his family. It is only becos of tis I think tat the club accept 2 sell Carlos, becos I think tat we respect his reasons."

Tevez, on holiday aft Argentina were knocked out of the Copa America, is said not 2 be "overly worried" by the collapse of his move 2 Corinthians.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/936609/roberto-mancini-eyes-full-control-at-manchester-city?cc=4716

Mancini eyes more control
July 23, 2011

Roberto Mancini says he 1s full control over all football matters @ ManC, just as as his United rival SAF has across town.

Mancini took over as City boss in 2009 & understands tat success on the pitch will allow him further power over issues such as player transfers in the future. But the Italian tactician, who helped the club claim their 1st silverware in 35 years last campaign, appears 2 be growing frustrated as next season looms.

"Maybe 4 me it's difficult becos I hv only been here for 18 months or so," Mancini told The Sun. "Maybe I need 2 hv more control of the team & the other situations.

"For a manager, that's very important. Maybe if I win the Premier League tis season it will be different. But it's important 4 the manager 2 hv control over the players, the medical staff & the other situations. It can improve.

"I agree with [Sir Alex] but he has been @ United 4 a long time, so 4 him it is easy. He has 2 be in control of everything, doesn't he?

"It's different fr Italy & I prefer [the] English style becos if the manager loses the manager is sacked, & so I think the manager needs 2 take every decision. If he makes a mistake, he pays 4 it."

City's board were hoping 2 offload players such as Carlos Tevez & Emmanuel Adebayor b4 making bids 4 their top targets, such as Atletico Madrid's Sergio Aguero. However, Mancini feels valuable time has since elapsed as his side continue their pre-season preparations, & City r yet 2 sell their unwanted players.

"At the moment we r not ready 2 play 4 the title. But maybe in 2 weeks we will be ready," Mancini said.

"I think we can get the players we 1. I think in football anything can happen, football is strange 4 tis. But if we 1 2 compete 4 all competitions we must hv players - but we r working 4 tis.

"Teams like United & Chelsea don't need 2 buy 6 players. Maybe they only need 2 or 3 & they r OK. 4 us, it's different & difficult. Tis could be the last season tat it is like tis 4 us.

"Maybe next summer we will just need 1 or 2 players."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/936950/sir-alex-ferguson:-carlos-tevez-said-he-would-quit-in-four-years?cc=4716

Fergie reveals Tevez reasons
July 24, 2011

SAF has revealed tat Carlos Tevez wasn't signed by ManU on a permanent deal becos he said he was going 2 quit football in 4 years' time.

Tevez was @ Old Trafford for 2 years on loan, but United chose not 2 take up the option 2 keep him & he joined rivals ManC.

Since then, the Argentine has gone on 2 become 1 of the best players in the Premier League, leading many 2 question Ferguson's wisdom over the decision 2 let him go. However, the canny Scot has revealed the reasons 4 turning down Tevez, claiming tat it would not hv been a worthwhile long-term investment.

"Tevez told us he was only going 2 play for 4 more years," Ferguson said. "If we had signed him on a 5-year contract knowing tat he was going 2 quit in 4, there would have been no re-sale value 4 us."

With the £45 million rated Tevez keen 2 quit City 2 return 2 South America 2 be nearer his family, Ferguson also revealed where he though the striker's future lies, despite recent interest fr Italian side Inter Milan.

"I'm not sure Inter would pay £45 million, especially aft he's said he 1s 2 go back 2 -Argentina 2 see his kids. I can see him staying @ City," he added.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/937157/mario-balotelli-hauled-off-as-man-city-beat-la-galaxy-on-penalties?cc=4716

Balotelli in the spotlight again
July 25, 2011

Mario Balotelli sparked controversy as he was substituted aft only 31 mins following his attempted backheel when clean thru on goal in ManC's narrow pre-season win over the LA Galaxy.

Balotelli had already put City ahead fr the penalty spot aft Micah Richards had been fouled.

He was then sent clear of the home side's defence on the half hour but instead of attempting 2 score normally, Balotelli tried a complicated pivot, followed by a backheel which rolled wide.

Manager Roberto Mancini was clearly furious & immediately took Balotelli off.

"I hope tis is a lesson 4 him," Mancini told various newspapers aft the match in which City won 7-6 on penalties aft it ended 1-1 in normal time. "In football you always need 2 be professional, always serious & in tis moment he wasn't professional.

"If u r serious, you can play 90 mins. If not, you can come & sit by me on the bench."

The striker responded with a few choice words 2 the City chief as he made his way 2 the bench, indicating tat he did not understand wat he had done wrong.

Mancini replied, presumably pointing out how disrespectful the move had been. Balotelli angrily took his place on the bench b4 throwing his water-bottle 2 the ground in disgust.

He did not return 2 the bench 4 the 2nd half, further fuelling an already tempestuous relationship with Mancini.

"He needs 2 understand his behaviour has 2 be good in every game - not just in a final or a semi-final but every game," Mancini added. "He knows he made a mistake. Football should always be serious & if you hv a chance 2 score, you should score."

Balotelli's actions add 2 growing crime sheet since he joined City just 12 months ago, although Mancini was keen 2 draw a line under the incident.

"Mario is young, I 1 2 help him & tat is the end of it,'' he added.

"To take him off aft 30 mins is enough punishment. It won't hv been easy 4 him but it has 2 be a lesson.''

Asked wat Balotelli had said 2 him, he replied: "It was in Italian. In English I would find it difficult 2 give u the translation. But Mario is streetwise, he knows he was not offside."

Balotelli was sent-off @ West Brom in November, then against Dynamo Kiev in a last 16 Europa League tie which Mancini branded "stupid".

On more than 1 occasion the City chief accused Balotelli of not listening 2 him & the 20-year-old raised further eyebrows when he accepted the Golden Boy award & declared of the previous winners, the only 1 who was a "little bit" better than him was Lionel Messi.

He did not turn up 4 an end-of-season trophy parade - even though he was named man-of-the-match as City defeated Stoke in the FA Cup final @ Wembley.

Already tis season he was pictured showing off a T-shirt of questionable taste, which was condemned by the Damilola Taylor Trust.

With the club due 2 return 2 England @ the end of their 3-match tour, Mancini will presumably let Balotelli know exactly wat he thinks, although with the future of Carlos Tevez uncertain & relations with Emmanuel Adebayor & Craig Bellamy non-existent, City currently hv an unhappy roster of strikers ahead of Sergio Aguero's planned £45 million move fr Atletico Madrid.

The controversy surrounding Ballotelli's substitution reduced David Beckham's 45-minute appearance 2 a sideshow as Mike Magee bagged a 2nd-half leveller 4 the hosts b4 Joe Hart ended a marathon penalty shoot-out 2 secure a 7-6 spot-kick triumph 4 City.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/937380/nigel-de-jong-warns-mario-balotelli-not-to-waste-talent?cc=4716

De Jong warns Balotelli
July 25, 2011

ManC midfielder Nigel de Jong has warned team-mate Mario Balotelli not 2 waste his talent, aft he was substituted aft attempting a trick shot in the club's friendly against L.A. Galaxy.

Balotelli, 20, sparked a verbal clash with manager Roberto Mancini, who hauled the striker off a few mins aft the incident & displayed his anger on the bench.

De Jong, who was particularly demonstrative in his remonstrations with Balotelli @ the time, said in comments quoted in The Guardian: ''I've played with some strange characters in the past but it's the 1st time I hv seen tat.

''It is frustrating, & he has 2 iron out those issues otherwise it will be a waste of his talent. He has 2 realise tat now.

''All his team-mates r here 2 help him but he's his own person & he is the only 1 who can change his ways.''

However, David Beckham has stuck up 4 Balotelli as the Galaxay star, whilst reminding Balotelli of his status within the game, did feel there was a legitimate excuse.

''I hv watched it back a few times & fr his mannerisms I believe he thought he was offside,'' Beckham said. ''Mario has been a great player 4 quite afew years & he is still very young. He will continue 2 get better I m sure.

''But it doesn't matter whether you think it was offside or not. There r alot of young kids watching these teams & great players who come out here. You hv 2 be professional & score the goal.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/937900/man-city's-sergio-aguero:-'i'm-the-che-guevara-of-modern-soccer'?cc=4716

Aguero: Call me Che Guevara
July 28, 2011

Sergio Aguero has promised 2 light up the Premier League as ManC prepare 2 formally announce his move fr Atletico Madrid, calling himself "the Che Guevara of modern soccer".

Aguero, who turned 23 last month, was quick 2 distance himself fr any comparisons 2 Argentina legend, & father-in-law, Diego Maradona - preferring 2 be seen as a footballing revolutionary himself.

Aguero told the Sun: "No 1 will ever be exactly like Maradona again but I really think tat every so often there is a total revolution in football & some1 needs 2 be the revolutionary who starts things off. Tat's me.

"Maradona made some 'noise' in his day & I 1 2 roar a bit in my day - now.

"I like tricks, I like 2 dazzle, I like 2 be able 2 score a goal with 1 leg bent round the other so tat you smack the ball in2 the net with your wrong foot. Dribbling & leaving your opponent on his backside is wat life is 4.

"If I achieve wat I 1 2 then I'll mark a distinct era in football. I'm the Che Guevara of modern soccer."

The striker, who will cost the Champions League newcomers around £38 million, has already announced he has signed 4 City via his official Twitter account, & all tat is now left is 4 the club 2 confirm the deal.

City travel 2 Ireland 4 the Dublin Super Cup tis weekend, & the club left a "+ 1 other" under strikers on their squad announcement 4 the event @ the Aviva Stadium. Aguero seems certain 2 fill tat position.

Only 4 players - Lionel Messi, David Villa, Diego Forlan & Frederic Kanoute - scored more La Liga goals than Aguero since he moved 2 Atletico fr Independiente in 2006.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/938117/sergio-aguero-already-eyeing-silverware?cc=4716

Aguero already eyeing silverware
July 29, 2011

Hours aft signing a new 5-year deal, ManC's record signing Sergio Aguero has set his sights on winning silverware with the club.

Roberto Mancini's side ended the club's 35-year wait 4 a trophy by lifting the FA Cup in May, while a 3rd-placed top-flight finish put them in2 the Champions League 4 the 1st time.

Aguero, winner of the 2010 Europa League with Atletico, believes the club is headed 2ward further honours tis campaign.

"I saw the game [FA Cup final] & I think we r a team tat in the future will be fighting every year 2 win major trophies," said the 23-year-old.

"Let's hope tat it's quite a few major trophies."

Aguero earlier stated tat he believes he wil not hv any problems adapting 2 English football.

"I think in terms of technique the leagues r similar. Maybe the game is more physical in England & there is a greater emphasis on tactics in Spain," he said on ManC's official website.

"Fr wat I've seen on TV there is a high level of skill here.

"It is quite different but I need 2 wait 4 my 1st game, go out & do my best & find out 4 real wat it's like, becos playing is not the same as watching it on TV.

"My style has always been 2 fight 2 the death 4 every ball, & give 100% in every game.

"I'm not a player who can do everything, but I still hv plenty 2 offer.

"I don't think I'll hv 2 many problems settling in2 the team."

Aguero became manager Mancini's 3rd signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Arsenal defender Gael Clichy & Partizan Belgrade's Stefan Savic.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/938456/roberto-mancini-to-bring-in-two-more?cc=4716

Mancini to bring in two more
July 30, 2011

Roberto Mancini has revealed tat ManC's summer spending is set 2 continue, even aft tis week's £38 million capture of Argentina international Sergio Aguero.

Striker Aguero, who joined fr Atletico Madrid, was City's 3rd signing of the summer, following Gael Clichy & Stefan Savic in2 the Etihad Stadium, which will host Champions League football 4 the 1st time next season.

The City squad is already bursting @ the seams, with the likes of Craig Bellamy, Roque Santa Cruz, Wayne Bridge, Emmanuel Adebayor & Nedum Onuoha surplus 2 requirements - but it still seems tat further arrivals r imminent.

"We still 1 2 get a midfielder & another winger," Mancini said. "If we 1 2 compete with the top teams, in the Premiership & England, we need other players."

Meanwhile, Mancini confirmed tat Aguero will play no part in tis weekend's Dublin Super Cup, which also features Celtic, Airtricity XI & Inter Milan. Instead, he is expected 2 make his debut against ManU in the Community Shield clash @ Wembley in the 1st weekend of August.

Aguero said: "In 5 years I hv only had 1 holiday so I'm used 2 it. 1 week of rest & a couple of days of training & I'll be ready 2 play."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/938453/celtic-boss-neil-lennon-keen-to-land-bellamy?cc=4716

Lennon keen to land Bellamy
July 30, 2011

Celtic manager Neil Lennon hopes 2 contact ManC over the availability of striker Craig Bellamy, but admits $ may be a stumbling block.

The Northern Irishman hopes 2 speak with representatives of the Barclays Premier League club tis weekend when both teams compete in the Dublin Super Cup.

Lennon told the Daily Telegraph: ''There is interest, but it is dictated 2 by finances. I hope 2 catch up with [City] while they r here & see if we can take it fr there.''

Bellamy became a popular figure among the Hoops faithful during a successful loan spell in Glasgow 6 years ago as a Newcastle player.

The 32-year-old was loaned out 2 Cardiff last season but has since returned 2 City, who further bolstered their attacking line with the acquisition of Argentina striker Sergio Aguero.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/938476/corinthians-to-return-for-tevez-in-january?cc=4716

Corinthians to return for Tevez
July 30, 2011

Corinthians will return 2 try & sign ManC's wantaway striker Carlos Tevez in January 1s the Brazilian transfer window opens again.

Tevez's €50 million move 2 Corinthians collapsed last week as negotiations stuttered over the player's valuation & the ability of the Brazilian club 2 pay the full fee in instalments.

Now, marketing director Luis Paulo Rosenberg is watching Tevez's links with a move 2 Inter Milan carefully & insists tat if the Argentine is still a City player @ the start of next year, then his club will come back with another offer.

"You can expect us 2 go aft him again," Rosenberg told Bloomberg. "I think [our offer] was €5 million [2 low]. But we would still hv 2 deal with Tevez; we did not [get] 2 becos we still needed 2 reach a settlement with the City.''

Former Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero has already arrived @ Eastlands as Tevez's replacement, suggesting tat Tevez may soon get his wish 2 move closer 2 his family.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/938750/patrick-vieira-urges-city-fans-to-trust-roberto-mancini?cc=4716

Vieira urges City fans to trust Mancini
July 31, 2011

Former ManC midfielder Patrick Vieira thinks tat Roberto Mancini is the perfect man 2 deal with the issues surrounding the future of Carlos Tevez.

Vieira, now a part of the club's youth development staff, claims tat Mancini has the man-management skills 2 lead the club 2 greatness & says he will always put City ahead of the egos of some of his star players.

"Wat I respect most abt Mancini is tat he isn't afraid 2 make the big decisions,'' Vieira told The Daily Mirror. "Remember last summer when he allowed Craig Bellamy 2 join Cardiff - even though he knew tis was a player the fans loved.

"Tis time he is having 2 manage a difficult situation with Carlos Tevez. But having 2 take these big decisions will not worry him. Whether he makes the right choice or the wrong choice, Mancini is some1 who is brave 2 make a decision & move on. He always looks @ the big picture.

"Whether Carlos stays or leaves, the only thing Mancini will be thinking abt is wat is right 4 the team so tat he can win more silverware. It takes time 4 fans 2 trust a manager, but winning the FA Cup & finishing 3rd will make the fans believe in Roberto.

"He will not worry 1 bit abt wat other people think. He can be ruthless with players - but great managers like [Sir Alex] Ferguson, [Arsene] Wenger & [Jose] Mourinho all hv tat gift."

Vieira has also said tat Mancini can cope with the pressure of needing 2 win trophies @ the club & says he has the self-belief 2 succeed.

"There were a lot of things said abt the manager last season, abt wat would happen 2 him if he wasn't successful,'' he added. ''If anything, the pressure will be even more tis season becos the expectations will grow.

"But I don't think pressure is something tat Mancini worries about becos he has worked under pressure all his life. No-1 will put Roberto under more pressure than he does himself. He doesn't just 1 2 win, he expects 2 win. Tat is his mentality.

"He was happy 2 win the FA Cup 4 City, but he will 1 tat 2 be the start. Mancini didn't come 2 England just 2 win the Cup. He came here 2 win the league. He 1s 2 win the Champions League 4 ManC.

"If he didn't believe tat the club was in a position 2 let him achieve his ambitions then he wouldn't hv come here. Being faced by Ferguson & Wenger won't worry him. Sure, those men r managers he respects, but he has a belief tat he can beat them."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/938961/mario-balotelli-does-not-enjoy-living-in-manchester?cc=4716

Balotelli 'unhappy in Manchester
August 1, 2011

Mario Balotelli has revealed he does not enjoy living in Manchester & says he misses his friends & family in Italy.

Balotelli's comments show similarities with team-mate Carlos Tevez's declaration tis summer tat he 1s 2 leave the club 2 be nearer his children.

Italy international Balotelli only joined City fr Inter Milan last summer, 4 around £24 million, but his admission tat he has struggled 2 settle in the North West of England is sure 2 spark conjecture over his future.

"I'm not happy @ Manchester - I don't like the city," he told Sky Sport Italia. "I'm happy with the coach & within the team, but you can't hv everything in life.

"I don't miss Milan. I miss Brescia, my home. I miss my family & my friends, but I think tis experience in England will help me grow as an individual. I don't know if I will stay until the end of my contract. I'm here 4 now & then we'll see."

Balotelli also hinted tat he would consider joining Inter rivals AC Milan in the future, adding: "They r a great team. We could talk abt it 1 day."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/939590/eric-cantona-critical-of-manchester-city-approach?cc=4716

Cantona critical of City approach
August 4, 2011

ManU legend Eric Cantona believes the club's cross-town rivals will need 2 invest in youth development rather than big-name players if they r 2 reach the level of success achieved @ Old Trafford.

Cantona, currently in the UK 2 promote the New York Cosmos 4 whom he is the director of soccer, has warned ManC they will never match his former club despite splashing cash tis summer on the likes of Sergio Aguero, Gael Clichy & Stefan Savic.

Manager Roberto Mancini complained 2wards the end of last season @ the lack of players with 1st-team potential in the City academy, which was a remarkable statement given how productive the club had previously been @ youth level.

"United r the best team," said Cantona. "I don't know how City work. Maybe they r working on the academy. But 2day they 1 2 spend millions 2 buy players 2 build a team.

"They hv been successful becos they won the FA Cup but if they only 1 2 do tat, they will not be as strong as ManU.

"United work on the long term, with young talent."

Cantona also launched a rebuke @ Carlos Tevez & Mario Balotelli, who hv tis summer both criticised the lifestyle in Manchester.

"They don't like the place? It depends upon where they come fr. If they come fr Milan, maybe. Also it depends why they hv come.

"I had a great time here & a great time in the city but the most important thing 4 me was 2 play 4 the best club in the world, with the best players in the world.

"I was a professional player. I didn't try 2 find a city 2 enjoy it. The greatest time you can hv is on the pitch."

And, 14 years aft leaving, Cantona is back as manager of the Cosmos in which huge investment & PR could see them become Major League Soccer's 20th team.

"I didn't 1 2 come back like any other ex-player," said Cantona. "I wanted 2 come back with a special club. We hv alot of things 2 do. We 1 2 do them well.

"We 1 2 win things & build things. We 1 2 work on the long term & try 2 be 1 of the best teams in the USA & maybe help, thru our young talent, the national team 2 win the WC just as Barcelona helped Spain last year.

"I know all clubs 1 young players. But we r special, & better than the others.''

Cantona's managerial rival during Paul Scholes' testimonial in Manchester will be Sir Alex Ferguson, the man who asked Martin Edwards 2 throw in the Frenchman's name during a phone call with then Leeds chairman Bill Fotherby in 1992, resulting in a staggering transfer tat arguably changed the face of English football.

"Maybe I will die b4 Sir Alex," said Cantona. "I m sure he will be on the bench 4ever. It is his life.

"He was a good player. He has been a great manager 4 ManU."

Cantona certainly feels Ferguson will be more difficult 2 replace than any of the stellar talents who hv left United during the Scot's incredible reign, which in November will hv reached 25 years. And tat includes himself & Scholes, whose retirement will be honoured on Friday.

"I knew Paul when he was young," said Cantona. "He started here with us. He has been a great player. He could play anywhere, midfield, up front, he could score goals, make them, defend, tackle. He could do anything.

"He is a great player. I m very proud of him. But you can replace any player, esp @ a club like ManU, with a great manager like Ferguson.

"When a player leaves, you think the club won't win any more. But they still do. They hv a great history & they work alot every day so any player can be replaced.

"Paul is still a great player. But I left, [Cristiano] Ronaldo left, [Mark] Hughes left, [David] Beckham left, & United r still 1 of the best clubs in the world."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/preview/_/id/323687?cc=4716

City aim to raise noise level

Traditionally the season opening FA Community Shield, or Charity Shield as it used 2 be known, has always fallen below the high standards of the Premier League in terms of work-rate, passion & drama. Tis season, though, the concept of 'community' will be far fr Wembley as 2 warring factions fr Manchester aim 2 set down a marker 4 the coming campaign.

With ManC ending their barren run with an FA Cup final win @ the stadium in May, the wealthy 'noisy neighbours' - as SAF described them - r getting louder & tis season will provide an insight in2 how noisy they could be in the future.

With the financial power behind them 2 challenge any1 in the world, City hv turned the negativity surrounding the future of wantaway capt & talisman Carlos Tevez in2 a positive by immediately signing his replacement: £38 million Argentina international Sergio Aguero. Whether Tevez leaves or not, City r no weaker than last season & may yet use the rest of the transfer window 2 recruit further with Samir Nasri, Samuel Eto'o & Maicon all recently linked.

The Wembley clash could provide City fans with their 1st sight of Aguero in a blue shirt if he recovers fr illness, but United will also be using the competition 2 showcase their new talent. The Premier League champions hv spent £50 million on David De Gea, Phil Jones & Ashley Young, while speculation continues tat they will bring in Wesley Sneijder b4 the end of August, Ferguson looks content with his already impressive squad as it is.

Wayne Rooney has urged his side 2 ''start the season with a bang'' while many pundits hv tipped tis 2 be 1 of the greatest season openers in history. Since the creation of the Premier League, only 7 of the 19 Community Shield winners hv gone on 2 win the Premier League, but whoever is victorious will fancy overcoming the odds 2 lift the 1 tat really matters @ the end of the season.

Man Utd player to watch: David De Gea.
Stepping in2 the sizeable boots of Edwin van der Sar is not an easy task, but the Spain Under-21 international has all the attributes he needs 2 succeed. Incredibly down 2 earth, the tall goalkeeper will be thrust in2 the spotlight as the Manchester derby arrives & the pressure will be unlike anything he has ever seen b4. However, Ferguson believes he has the right man 2 dominate 4 a decade & a few early saves will certainly settle the nerves.

Man City player to watch: Gael Clichy.
A £7 million summer signing fr Arsenal, left-back Clichy is determined 2 win silverware with his new club & shore up a position in which the club hv struggled. His pace & stamina down the flanks will provide an outlet 4 City, while he will be looking 2 outdo international rival Patrice Evra on the other side of the pitch as he looks 2 impress France coach Laurent Blanc. Concerns over his concentration still permeate his game, but his experience of top-level games will be invaluable.

Key Battle: Tom Cleverley v Yaya Toure .
The void left by the retired Paul Scholes is something tat has worried SAF more than anything else tis summer, but without an agreement 4 Sneijder or Nasri, he will turn 2 youth & give Cleverley a chance 2 shine. The young midfielder impressed against Barcelona in pre-season & also on loan @ Wigan last year, but he could come up against a man mountain in Toure. The Ivorian plays in a more advanced role 4 City & uses his immense strength & power 2 charge 4ward 2 good effect - notable in last season's FA Cup semi against United & final against Stoke. The winner of tis midfield battle could free up space in the centre 4 others & will certainly help 2 decide the outcome of the game.

Trivia:
City hv not been in the Community/Charity Shield since 1973 when they lost 1-0 to Burnley. United hv competed in 14 of the last 19 &, with 18, r the competition's most successful team of all-time.

Stats: The 2 Manchester giants hv met 1s b4 in tis competition: in 1956, ManU triumphed over City with a 1-0 victory. The last 4 cup meetings betw these sides hv seen a total of 16 goals scored, with both sides scoring @ least 1s on each occasion.

Odds:
Man Utd (2.30), City (3.10) & the draw (3.30) r on offer with $$$$$$ while Wayne Rooney 2 score 1st comes in @ 6.50.

Prediction: The gap betw the 2 sides has never been closer in the Premier League era & City will relish the chance 2 seize the psychological initiative & upset their title rivals b4 the season has begun.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/940845/emmanuel-adebayor-and-craig-bellamy-set-for-exits?cc=4716

Adebayor and Bellamy to leave City
August 7, 2011

ManC boss Roberto Mancini has warned Emmanuel Adebayor & Craig Bellamy they do not feature in his plans 4 the new Premier League season.

Adebayor spent the 2nd half of last season @ Real Madrid, while Bellamy was on a season-long loan 2 Cardiff, & although both players r free 2 leave Eastlands tis summer, they hv yet 2 find a new employer.

With record signing Sergio Aguero joining an already-bursting strikeforce including Edin Dzeko, Mario Balotelli & wantaway skipper Carlos Tevez, both Adebayor & Bellamy r surplus 2 requirements.

Bellamy has been linked with a return 2 Cardiff or Celtic, while Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has also expressed his interest. Former Arsenal striker Adebayor looked set 2 join Madrid on a permanent deal, but such a move appears 2 hv fallen thru. But even if either player fails 2 secure a move, they hv been told they r unlikely 2 feature 4 City tis season.

"These players [Adebayor & Bellamy] r not part of my plans," Mancini told The People.

[maestro7]

a real waste to let slip a 2-0 lead in the charity shield against man u.

hope mancity does better next time!

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=323687&cc=4716

Nani at the double

Nani's injury-time goal settled a wonderful Community Shield as ManU roared back fr 2 goals down 2 beat ManC 3-2.

Nani had already netted a jaw-dropping leveller in wat turned out 2 be the highest-scoring of these encounters since 1992. He then capitalised on Vincent Kompany's blunder 2 win a game tat seemed City's 4 the taking aft Joleon Lescott & Edin Dzeko had taken advantage of David de Gea's hesitancy.

But SAF's introduction of 3 younger members of his squad @ the break triggered a comeback 4 which United r so famed, Chris Smalling setting the ball rolling 6 mins aft the restart, triggering a richly-deserved victory charge 4 the Premier League champions.

It had been some 24 hours 4 Danny Welbeck. Selected 4 England ahead of Jermain Defoe on Saturday, he started tis afternoon's showpiece whilst Dimitar Berbatov was on the bench & Michael Owen remained in his suit. The 20-year-old was part of a scintillating performance fr the Red Devils tat lacked only an opening goal.

Betw them, Welbeck, Wayne Rooney, Nani & new signing Ashley Young cut City's midfield apart. Had United's final ball been better, they surely would hv got their noses in front.

As it was, Lescott got in the way of efforts fr Young, Smalling & Welbeck. Rooney curled a free-kick narrowly wide.

City's tackling grew increasingly desperate & aft Mario Balotelli & Dzeko had got themselves embroiled with Nemanja Vidic & Anderson respectively, Micah Richards was fortunate 2 stay on the field 4 a studs-1st lunge on Young tat sent the former Aston Villa winger flying.

Referee Phil Dowd felt the need 2 issue some strict instructions 2 Blues skipper Kompany aft another shuddering lunge fr Nigel de Jong, tis time on Welbeck.

How quickly circumstances can change.

Ferguson has already admitted 2 taking a gamble on De Gea, who - @ just 20 - is being asked 2 fill the boots of a man with twice his age in Edwin van der Sar.

It had been accepted by Old Trafford's coaching staff tat some work was required in the weights room 4 De Gea 2 hv the best chance of dealing with the more physical nature of English football.

His lack of bulk may be the reason why he opted against coming 4 Silva's teasing free-kick 7 mins b4 the break. Neither Vidic nor Rio Ferdinand got themselves in position 2 make a challenge & Lescott calmly flicked it in2 the corner.

It got even worse 4 United, & De Gea, in stoppage time.

Dzeko was given far 2 much room in midfield 2 decide wat 2 do with James Milner's square pass & aft advancing 10 yards, lashed a fine shot in2 the United net.

It was 1 of those tat, on 1st viewing, appeared 2 be De Gea's fault. Replays showed there had been some movement as the ball flashed in, which made life harder 4 the Spain Under-21 international.

However, there was a degree of culpability & clearly, De Gea is on a steep learning curve, not just in his goalkeeping but also United's DNA.

Ferguson's response was 2 replace 3 of his most senior players - Vidic, Ferdinand & Michael Carrick - @ the break & introduce a trio of youngsters in Phil Jones, Jonny Evans & Tom Cleverley.

Within 6 mins of the restart, Smalling had dragged the champions back in2 it, touching home Young's free-kick aft Dzeko had completely failed 2 track his run.

Then came the equaliser, with Rooney, Nani & Cleverley opening City up with a devastating series of short passes b4 Nani beat Joe Hart with a delicate chip.

De Gea showed his raw talent by beating away a ferocious goalbound effort fr Adam Johnson, then palming Richards' powerful header over.

The City duo were 2 of 14 Englishmen involved. The oldest member of United's 2nd-half side was Young, @ 26, during a spell following the departure of Patrice Evra & Dimitar Berbatov's introduction.

It was a taste of the future, with Cleverley in particular electrifying until he hooked an excellent chance over fr 8 yards.

The pity was it took a blunder 2 win it, Kompany failing 2 read Rooney's clearing punt, allowing Nani 2 rob him & charge 4ward, rounding Hart b4 tapping home.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/941089/man-city-boss-roberto-mancini-denies-wesley-sneijder-interest?cc=4716

Mancini denies Sneijder reports
August 7, 2011

Roberto Mancini has dismissed suggestions ManC r interested in signing Inter Milan star Wesley Sneijder.

Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport claimed on Saturday tat Sneijder had agreed 2 join City in a €36 million deal with wages of €6 million. However, City sources subsequently rejected the report & Mancini has now officially denied holding any interest in the player.

"No," he said. "It is not true. He is an Inter Milan player. We never spoke abt him."

With ManU still persistently linked with a move 4 Sneijder, Inter appear 2 be making little attempt 2 reject speculation of a rival bid fr City.

Inter director Marco Branca, asked whether City had made contact over the player, had earlier told Gazzetta: "Being 1 of the best players in the world, it's clear there r going 2 be enquiries. However, we hv not yet worked out a price-tag.

"Wesley has Inter in his heart, so it seems tat both he & Eto'o said they 1 2 stay. Aft all, Inter won't keep any1 who doesn't 1 2 be here, nor do we 1 2 sell some1 unless they r happy with the situation."

Inter boss Gian Piero Gasperini had said on Saturday in the wake of the reports of City's bid tat they would "think abt it next week if there is tis development".

Meanwhile, Mancini said he expected Carlos Tevez 2 return 2 training on Monday. "Yes. I expect Carlos 2 be back 2morrow," he said.



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/941126/wesley-sneijder:-i'm-for-sale-because-inter-milan-need-the-money?cc=4716


Sneijder speaks: I'm for sale
August 7, 2011

Wesley Sneijder has told Dutch media he is definitely 4 sale, & confirmed he will leave Inter Milan if a suitable offer comes in becos the club needs the money.

Sneijder told Voetball International: "All I know is tat Inter need money & tat I'm 4 sale if the right offer comes in. I hv 5 days off aft the international friendly against England on Wednesday. I expect clarity on my future by then.

"I can be very brief abt the interest fr ManU & City: I hvn't spoken with either of those 2 clubs, so I can't really say much abt my future @ the moment."

Netherlands international Sneijder has been subject 2 speculation throughout the summer, with ManU heavily linked 2 a player seen as an ideal replacement 4 the retired Paul Scholes.

On Saturday the saga took a dramatic twist when Gazzetta dello Sport claimed Sneijder had agreed 2 join City in a €36 million deal. City manager Roberto Mancini was quick 2 play down the rumours on Sunday, however. "No," he said. "It is not true. He is an Inter Milan player. We nvr spoke abt him."

Inter coach Gian Piero Gasperini responded 2 City's rumoured interest by saying: "Wesley Sneijder? We'll see. I don't know. We'll think abt it next week if there is tis development."

[Hori]

Carlos tevez will return to training today
Will he stay or go ?!

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/938943/roberto-mancini-says-carlos-tevez-could-stay-at-manchester-city?cc=4716

Mancini weighs up striking options
August 1, 2011

Roberto Mancini has intimated Carlos Tevez could stay @ ManC but fellow strikers Emmanuel Adebayor & Craig Bellamy r likely 2 leave the club.

Tevez's future is uncertain aft the Argentina international announced he is unsettled in Manchester. A move 2 Corinthians had been mooted but no deal was struck, & now Inter Milan appear his only suitors.

Mancini, though, claims Tevez could remain @ City, despite recently adding the 4ward's compatriot Sergio Aguero fr Atletico Madrid 4 a fee in the region of £38 million 2 his current crop which also includes Mario Balotelli & Edin Dzeko.

"When Carlos comes back 2 training on Thursday we will hv 4 strikers fighting 4 the shirts," Mancini said. "Tat's good 4 us. When you r playing in 4 competitions, we need tat competition, we need those players. Players fighting 4 the shirt is a good thing."

Bellamy, however, appears destined 4 a departure aft Mancini confirmed the rumours tat the Welshman could be heading 4 Celtic, aft spending last season on loan @ Cardiff.

He said: "It is possible tat there hv been conversations abt Craig Bellamy betw us & Celtic. I met Craig 2 days ago @ Carrington. I spoke with him for 10 mins. It was a friendly conversation - everything was normal.

"He told me something I 1 2 keep 2 myself. Wat I said 2 days ago was tat if Celtic 1 Craig, he is a good player & I think he can go. He is a good striker & needs 2 be playing. Celtic is a good team. I would let him go on loan, becos Craig deserves 2 play & he deserved 2 play 4 a good team. If they 1 him, sure."

Adebayor is another frontman expected 2 be moved on, with the Togo international making no secret of his desire 2 return 2 Real Madrid 4 the forthcoming season. And Mancini would welcome an agreement with the Spanish giants.

He said: "It is the same with Adebayor. Manu is in Carrington. He 1s 2 go 2 Real Madrid & if they 1 2 take him, they can. We hv 4 top strikers & it is really difficult.

"Manu is a good striker. We can't carry 6 strikers. He needs 2 play & I would be happy 4 him 2 go back 2 Real Madrid. I hope he can go back there. It is like with Craig. We hv alot of strikers, but I can't play 6 in the same strikers.

"It's important we find a good solution 4 them. I understand their situations."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/943004/roberto-mancini-frustrated-by-man-city-delay-in-samir-nasri-deal?cc=4716

Mancini frustrated by transfer delays
August 13, 2011

Roberto Mancini believes ManC will be capable of winning the title if they "complete" the squad but has been frustrated by the long wait 4 Samir Nasri.

Nasri, who has just 1 year remaining on his contract @ Arsenal, has long been tipped 2 complete a move 2 Eastlands & The Times even reported it as a done deal over a month ago.

With Arsenal yet 2 accept City's offer 4 Nasri, though, Mancini has been left frustrated @ the board's frustration 2 conclude their transfer business as he prepares 4 the opening game of the season against Swansea on Monday.

"Last year was the same 2," he said. "I don't understand tis. I thought we could get all the players we needed 3 or 4 weeks ago, but here we r & the deals aren't closed.

"We need tis player [Nasri]. I asked 4 tis player 2 months ago. I'm worried becos I don't hv tis player 2day & I probably won't hv him 2morrow. We play 3 games in August & I m worried.

"If we complete our squad, we can fight 4 the title tis year, but tat is a problem @ the moment becos we play our 1st match [on Monday]."

He added: "It is not important whether you r the richest club or not. The market is difficult - I understand tat - but when you hv your targets, it is important 2 go very hard.

"It was important 2 hv these players 4 pre-season becos it is there tat u prepare 4 the season. At the moment, we don't hv these players. I asked & I hope we can hv them tis week."

Fiorentina winger Alessio Cerci is among the other players Mancini is looking 2 sign & he said: "Cerci is a good player. He is young & he could be an option but there r other players."

City hv already signed Sergio Aguero, Gael Clichy, Stefan Savic & back-up goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon tis summer.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=939743&root=england&cc=4716

Noisy neighbours look to crash party
August 10, 2011

Having completed stage 1 of the ManC master plan last season - ensuring tat they broke their silverware drought by winning the FA Cup & clinching automatic qualification 2 the Champions League - City r a side on the up.

With the Abu Dhabi United Group's deep pockets 2 delve in2, the blue half of Manchester is finally in a position 2 pin their hopes on a realistic title challenge as opposed 2 the relegation concerns tat hv troubled them 4 so long.

But the optimism tat has arrived @ Eastlands has been tinged with sadness @ the prospect of losing captain, talisman & idol, Carlos Tevez tis summer. The Argentine's love affair with the game seems over &, with more pressing family concerns on his plate, the start of the season could see him sent on loan, sold 2 a club which stumps up £45 million, or returning 2 Manchester 2 wait out another chance 2 move 2 Brazil in January.

The importance of Tevez is not evident simply fr his 20 Premier League goals last season, but also in his work ethic & ability 2 lead the side's defensive line fr the front. Few strikers in world football can boast the same attributes, but City hv worked hard 2 bring a man 2 replace him with the minimum of upheaval.

The arrival of Argentine Sergio Aguero in a £38 million deal fr Atletico Madrid is a welcome boost 2 the City 4ward line, which was starting 2 look decidedly thin with the exits of Jo & Felipe Caicedo & little chance of loan trio Craig Bellamy, Emmanuel Adebayor & Roque Santa Cruz returning 2 stake their claims 4 a 1st-team place. With the inconsistent Edin Dzeko keen 2 prove himself in his 1st full season in England, Aguero will not hv 2 do alot right 2 place himself @ the top of the pecking order - assuming of course tat Tevez is not around - & hopes r high 4 the son-in-law of the great Diego Maradona.

But Roberto Mancini's striking equation has another addition: Mario Balotelli. The unpredictable Italian failed 2 cover himself in glory again in pre-season aft being hauled off after half an hour following a piece of showboating in the friendly against LA Galaxy & has a fiery relationship with his boss. Love him, or loathe him, Balotelli is a precocious talent &, @ his best, is certainly a player 2 be feared. Whether or not Mancini is able 2 tame (or @ least channel) the wild streak in him tis season remains 2 be seen, but there will be more controversy expected in the coming year.

While City scored 18 goals less than champions United, they had the joint-best defensive record alongside Chelsea in 2010-11. With Kolo Toure's suspension, 4 taking 1 of his wife's diet pills, ending in Sept & Joleon Lescott showing more consistency as well as the versatility tat allows him 2 fill in @ left-back, the side r well set up & hv even more depth than they did, having added young centre-back Stefan Savic & experienced Arsenal full-back Gael Clichy.

The £12 million exit of Jerome Boateng causes little upheaval in the City line due 2 his injury problems last season &, 1s again, Mancini will turn 2 the rock tat is Vincent Kompany 2 provide the stability tat he needs. Making the Belgian captain tis season is just reward 4 his ability 2 lead fr the back &, ironically, the 1 player tat City hv signed on the cheap appears 2 be 1 of the best.

Another reason 4 their resolute defensive performances came in the shape of goalkeeper Joe Hart. Displacing Shay Given, Hart's elevation 2 1st-choice stopper 4 both club & country occurred quickly &, as a result, Given has now sought a new challenge @ Aston Villa. With Stuart Taylor, David Gonzalez & Gunnar Nielsen acting as backups, there is depth, but City fans may worry if something happens 2 the England No.1.

The 1 main area tat Mancini has not seen need 2 strengthen is the centre of midfield. With a trio of powerful, combative central players in Yaya Toure, Gareth Barry & Nigel de Jong, the core of the side is strong. Patrick Vieira has retired - moving 2 a position with the City backroom staff - but with 2 solid defensive midfielders shielding the defence & Toure given an unusually advanced role last season, power & stamina is in no short supply. However, as with their main title rivals, creativity is a little lacking.

David Silva bore the burden of leading City's attack in 2010-11 & was often forced 2 drift inside 2 direct the play. The Spaniard improved throughout the season & his touch & vision ensured tat City carried some threat in the final 3rd, but without him they struggled. Tis is certainly an important season 4 the midfielder as City could use more than the 4 goals in 30 starts he managed last season; if he adds a finishing touch 2 his repertoire, then there is every chance he could end the campaign as 1 of the best in the league.

Winger Adam Johnson is an able deputy when given a chance, & Vladimir Weiss & Shaun Wright-Phillips will also be keen 2 press their claims 2 stay @ the club if they don't choose 2 try their luck elsewhere on loan. But there is still something of a creative hole.

Aft the successes of the last campaign, the City board's expectations 4 the season r high. The 1st-half of the Community Shield gave them hope, the 2nd took it away, but failure 2 mount a serious title challenge will not be tolerated - although when a club has been built on the millions of a wealthy owner there is always going 2 be pressure. Mancini is under no illusions as 2 wat is expected of him &, as City prepare 4 their 1st adventure in2 the Champions League, he would be well advised 2 enjoy the good times while they last.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/943692/roberto-mancini-wary-of-manchester-city-starting-slowly?cc=4716

Mancini prepared for slow start
August 14, 2011

Roberto Mancini is wary of ManC making another slow start in the Premier League as they prepare 2 kick-off their campaign against newly promoted Swansea.

Mancini complained last week tat his squad was not yet complete just days out fr the start of the season as City continue their pursuit of Arsenal star Samir Nasri. The Italian followed tis rant by suggesting the unfinished squad could get out of the blocks in shaky fashion, as they did last campaign, making their dream of a Premier League title tat much more difficult 2 attain.

"I think the 1st 10 games r very difficult - the squad is not 100% ready," Mancini told the Guardian. "It needs 4 or 5 games 2 find good form 4 the players. If we complete our squad, we can fight 4 the title tis year. But tat is a problem @ the moment.

"When u start the season & play against a team tat comes fr the Championship, it is really difficult. Last year, with all the teams tat came fr the Championship, it was very hard 2 play against them in the 1st 10 games & it will be the same tis year. But this is why the Premier League is difficult. Every game is hard."

"I hv watched many of their games. Swansea play good football. They don't play long ball & they hv good players. The manager [Brendan Rodgers] is good - last year, he played really good football & got promoted."

The club has strengthened its playing stocks over the summer by signing the likes of Sergio Aguero & Gael Clichy, but Mancini says the delays in signing Nasri & sorting out the future of Carlos Tevez could prevent City improving on last season's 3rd-placed finish & becoming genuine title contenders.

"It is not important whether you r the richest club or not," said Mancini."The market is difficult. I understand tat. But when you hv your targets, it is important 2 go very hard. It was important 2 hv these players 4 pre-season becos it is there tat you prepare 4 the season. At the moment, we don't hv these players. I asked & hope we can hv them tis week.

"But last year it was the same. In the 1st 3 games, we lost against Sunderland & drew @ Tottenham. Tat is why it is important 2 hv the players b4."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/954529/roberto-mancini:-carlos-tevez-won't-captain-man-city-again?cc=4716

Mancini strips Tevez of City captaincy
September 9, 2011

ManC boss Roberto Mancini has confirmed tat Vincent Kompany has taken over the club captaincy fr Carlos Tevez on a permanent basis.

Tevez, 27, was inspirational as skipper last season, scoring 23 goals 4 City as they ended their 35-year trophy drought by lifting the FA Cup, as well as qualifying 4 the Champions League 4 the 1st time in their history.

But aft repeatedly stating his desire 2 leave City & move back 2 South America 2 be closer 2 his family, the Argentina striker has been stripped of the armband.

"The captain is Vinny Kompany," Mancini said. "The reason is simple. Carlos in the summer wanted 2 leave the club 4 family reasons. I respected his opinion 2 leave the club. But Carlos is here now, we didn't find any solution 4 him.

"He is a fantastic player 4 us becos he can score 20 goals in 1 year - but I decided in the summer Vinny was the captain.''

Tevez has been City's top scorer 4 the past 2 seasons but now appears 2 be behind Edin Dzeko & record signing Sergio Aguero in the pecking order.

Dzeko, who struggled 2 make an impact in the 2nd half of last season aft his £27 million arrival in January, has been in particularly good form. The Bosnian has scored 7 times in 4 appearances tis term, including 1 in the Community Shield & a hat-trick against Tottenham.

Mancini said: "Edin is a fantastic striker, he scores everywhere. I m sure tat tis year Edin k score alot of goals 4 us.''

[screamer]

I know its kinda early, but still, well done to Man City...

strong quad... this year could be special, keeping my finger cross.

And, many thank for the 2-0 last night!! I got a big ang-Bao in Actual-score, TG Under, and jalan.

[joew2005]

agree tat manc has done pretty well so far tis season.
played 6 games & collected 16 points fr a possible 18.(88.9%)
scored 19 goals in 6 games & only let in 5.

but the owners has spent alot of $ in the past few seasons.
tis season the owners & of course the fans deserve more than jz a FA cup.

mancini's honeymoon period is over ..... time 2 justify the amount of $ he spent.

[omnia]

mancini already feeling the pressure going by his stupid claim that he still needs to buy more last wk when man city drew at fulham...

it wld not be unreasonable to expect man city to win at least either of the big 2 EPL r CL this season...if not i think mancini shall probably hv to say ciao to manchester...

problem mancini appears to hv is to ensure that his team keeps a killer instinct to finish off all league games...especially the away games straight after a mid week CL game...



mancini's honeymoon period is over ..... time 2 justify the amount of $ he spent.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/962673/roberto-mancini:-carlos-tevez-'refused'-to-play-for-city?cc=4716

Tevez 'refused' to play for City
September 27, 2011

Roberto Mancini has claimed striker Carlos Tevez refused 2 come on as a substitute 4 ManC in their 2-0 loss 2 Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

Mancini turned 2 Tevez in the 2nd half of City's European match @ the Allianz Arena as his side trailed 2-0 following a 1st-half brace fr Bayern 4ward Mario Gomez.

But, speaking aft the defeat, the Italian coach has said Tevez, who was linked with a move away fr the club in the summer although a transfer failed 2 materialise, would not enter the fray when Mancini looked 2 alter City's fortunes.

Mancini told Sky Sports: "He refused 2 come on. 1 player refused 2 go on - I can't accept tis."

When asked if he had any explanation 4 Tevez's behaviour, Mancini said: "It is impossible. I asked him 2 go in & help with the team. We hv 11 players. Maybe he was disappointed becoshe didn't play (fr the start)."

City boss Mancini went as far as 2 suggest Tevez, who left ManU 4 City in 2009, will not play 4 the club again. Mancini said: "If I hv my way he will be out of the club.''

Pressed further on if Tevez was finished @ City, Mancini said: "I don't decide tis, but if I did, then yes. I helped Carlos for 2 years but I cannot accept tis behaviour.''

Tevez, speaking thru an interpreter, gave little away. In an interview with Sky Sports News he said: "I hv been professional during all my time here. Last season I was the top scorer & I wanted 2 leave 4 family reasons - but I keep trying 2 do my best.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/962865/warm-up-confusion-sparked-carlos-tevez-dispute-with-mancini?cc=4716

Warm-up sparked Tevez row
September 28, 2011

ESPNsoccernet understands tat confusion over Carlos Tevez's warm-up was @ the crux of the issue tat sparked manager Roberto Mancini 2 claim the striker will nvr play 4 ManC again under his stewardship.

On Tuesday night, Mancini said Tevez "refused" 2 come on as a 2nd-half substitute against Bayern Munich as City trailed 2-0 in their Champions League Group A match @ the Allianz Arena.

The Argentina international has since issued a statement denying tat he refused 2 enter the fray, while saying a misunderstanding was @ the root of the dispute with Mancini, who indicated tat Tevez's time @ City may now be over.

A source close 2 the incident has now told ESPNsoccernet tat the bust-up came abt aft Tevez felt aggrieved @ having spent time warming up only 2 see midfielder Nigel de Jong introduced in place of 4ward Edin Dzeko.

Upon returning 2 the bench aft seeing the change, Tevez was then told 2 warm-up 1s more, 2 which the Argentine replied "por qué [why]?". Tis response led 2 a feisty verbal exchange betw Tevez & Mancini, the Italian angered by his player's questioning of the instruction.

It is understood tat Tevez, who has made no secret of his desire 2 leave City, has been growing increasingly frustrated @ being overlooked by Mancini having made just 2 starts in all competitions so far tis season.

Tevez, signed by City in 2009 aft he left rivals ManU, is reluctant 2 apologise 2 Mancini 4 the bust-up, but is sorry 2 the City fans over the incident.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/962784/carlos-tevez-actions-lambasted-by-former-greats?cc=4716

Souness: Tevez is a bad apple
September 28, 2011

Former Liverpool manager Graeme Souness has branded Carlos Tevez "a disgrace 2 football" aft ManC boss Roberto Mancini claimed the Argentina striker refused 2 come on against Bayern Munich.

Tevez, who has frequently agitated 4 a move away fr Eastlands, ended up staying with the club tis summer when no suitable buyers came 4ward & he has been out of the 1st team since the start of the current campaign, with the likes of Edin Dzeko, Sergio Aguero & Mario Balotelli all ahead of him.

He was again on the bench 4 the trip 2 Germany & Mancini has said he declined 2 go on the pitch when asked. Tevez's actions drew a scathing response fr the television pundits, with Souness reacting furiously.

"He [Tevez] is 1 bad apple," he told Sky Sports 2.

"He can undo all the good work tat has been done [@ City]. He's a disgrace 2 football. He epitomises wat most people think is wrong with modern football.

"It is totally unacceptable. He's a football player & he is paid 2 play. He is refusing 2 help his team-mates. It's all abt him, him, him."

Souness also suggested the Argentina 4ward's attitude may hv contributed 2 his exit fr ManU, where he played prior 2 his Eastlands switch.

"Why didn't Fergie take him? Fergie [Sir Alex Ferguson] is the oldest fox in the business & he must hv seen something he didn't like in him," said the Scot.

Mancini is now keen 2 see the back of Tevez 1s & 4 all & Souness believes tat is the right move 4 City, who he thinks could risk losing their manager if they fail 2 agree.

"He [Mancini] walked in2 a hornet's nest with him [Tevez] & several other players who were @ the club @ the time," continued Souness.

"Tat would cause u 2 walk away fr the job. How can you deal with players acting like tat?"

Mark Hughes was City manager when Tevez moved 2 Eastlands & believes the player's personal situation is @ the root of the issue.

"The problem with Carlos is he missed his family,'' said Hughes on Sky Sports 2.

"Tat's why he said if it was possible he wanted 2 leave the club, he had tis situation with his family. There is obviously no relationship whatsoever, or u would imagine given the events of tis evening, with the manager. Tat needs 2 be mended & if it can't then something else has 2 happen."

4mer United striker Dwight Yorke also believes Mancini has some work on his hands resolving an awkward situation with a player who is lavishly paid @ City & would be affordable 2 only a small number of top clubs.

"I don't condone wat he's done, in terms of refusing 2 go on the pitch. No-1 likes 2 see tat," said Yorke.

"We don't know the ins & outs but they need 2 sort tat out. You don't need tat around the place. The manager has got some work 2 do & he alone can make those decisions."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/963276/man-city-could-ban-carlos-tevez-until-january?cc=4716

City could ban Tevez until January
September 29, 2011

ManC's lawyers r examining the club's options but it now looks as though Carlos Tevez will not kick a ball again until January @ the earliest.

City's legal experts r examining the rule book 2 find a way of suspending Tevez the maximum of 2 weeks on a rolling basis until the transfer window opens aft manager Roberto Mancini claimed the striker refused 2 play against Bayern Munich on Tuesday night.

Suspension is a preferable option 2 sacking the striker & pursuing him 4 compensation 4 gross misconduct & breach of contract, a sum which would effectively be paid by the club he signs 4 in January. However, tat option has not as yet been ruled out.

Imposing the initial 2-week suspension is only the 1st part of City's punishment 4 Tevez aft extensive talks betw chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Mancini, temporary chief executive John MacBeath & their lawyers, with the club backing the manager against 1 of the club's most prized players.

Tevez earns £200,000-a-week, so would lose around £3 million in wages if City can ban him 4 the 15 weeks until the transfer window is open again. The internal club suspension will also cost Tevez appearance money & other bonuses, potentially worth £500,000-a-week.

Tat is sure 2 be challenged by Tevez & his legal team & advisors, while Professional Footballers' Association chief executive Gordon Taylor is anxious 4 round-table negotiations 2 mediate. Tis would enable Tevez 2 move on in January but continue 2 play in the meantime.

Tat might entail Tevez making an apology 2 Mancini, but tat so far is not forthcoming & ESPNsoccernet sources hv indicated tat the player feels he has done nothing wrong. With City taking a hardline approach, there seems little room 4 compromise, & they r now consulting with the FA 2 see if the suspension could be extended should tat be deemed necessary 1s the findings of the club's internal review has been completed.

Mancini has already stated tat Tevez refused 2 come on as a substitute @ Bayern Munich while the Argentine striker has insisted it was a misunderstanding, so the player, his representatives & his legal team will be given every opportunity 2 put their side of the events as part of the investigation.

ESPNsoccernet has established tat Tevez believes the row happened aft he refused 2 warm up a 2nd time & tat he did not refuse 2 play.

An official club statement on Wednesday night read: "ManC can confirm tat striker Carlos Tevez has been suspended until further notice 4 a maximum period of 2 weeks. The player's suspension is pending a full review in2 his alleged conduct during Tuesday evening's 2-0 defeat 2 Bayern Munich.

"The player will not be considered 4 selection or take part in training whilst the review is under way."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/963882/sir-alex-ferguson-praises-'strong'-roberto-mancini?cc=4716

Ferguson praises 'strong' Mancini
September 30, 2011

SAF has praised ManC manager Roberto Mancini 4 his ''strong management'' in dealing with Carlos Tevez' apparent refusal 2 play in midweek.

Ferguson would not speak directly abt Tevez, a former player @ the club, but said Mancini had handled the incident well.

Ferguson told a news conference: ''I think tat Roberto Mancini has come out & shown his strength of character, his strength of mgmt & I think tat is important.

''We hv all experienced our own difficulties in mgmt & u cope with it as best as u can. In my own experience strong management is important & there is nobody more important than the manager @ a football club.''


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/963784/paul-scholes-sympathetic-toward-carlos-tevez?cc=4716

Scholes sympathetic toward Tevez
September 30, 2011

Former ManU midfielder Paul Scholes says he sympathises with 1-time team-mate Carlos Tevez over his apparent refusal 2 warm-up during the Champions League defeat @ Bayern Munich.

Tevez has been embroiled in controversy & speculation since the midweek trip 2 Germany, & earned the wrath of manager Roberto Mancini, among others, in the aftermath of the incident. But Scholes has expressed a level of understanding 4 Tevez's situation aft revealing he went thru a similar experience @ United.

"I know Carlos quite well. He's a player who 1s 2 be playing,'' Scholes told BBC Radio 5 live. "When he's a sub, it will be killing him.

"It's totally up 2 the manager but Carlos wouldn't hv been thinking tat. He'll be thinking, 'The manager is against me, why is he not bringing me on? I'm City's best player & he's not playing me'.

"I'm not saying he [Tevez] is rite - it's totally up 2 the manager."

Scholes, who retired fr playing in the summer 2 take up a coaching role @ United, refused 2 play in a League Cup tie in 2001 having been dropped 4 the previous game against Liverpool.

He explained: "You think you should be playing & my head was all over the place. I thought he [SAF] was messing me abt, wrongly really. It's up 2 him wat he does with his team.

"I realise it was stupid. I let the manager down & it was something I regretted. It's probably similar 2 Carlos Tevez's state of mind if it is true he refused 2 come on."


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/963877/west-ham-make-move-to-loan-carlos-tevez?cc=4716

West Ham make move for Tevez
September 30, 2011

West Ham r ready 2 offer Carlos Tevez an escape route fr ManC by taking him back 2 Upton Park on loan.

Tevez's move 2 West Ham in 2006 caused considerable controversy becos of the 3rd-party ownership scandal tat eventually saw them forced 2 pay compensation 2 relegated Sheffield United.

However, he remains a popular figure @ the club & the Hammers hv sounded out City 2 bring him back - albeit 4 just 3 months until he can be sold in January - as Championship teams can loan players outside of the summer transfer window.

Unless there is interest fr the Middle East, it looks like Tevez's most realistic move if he 1s 2 continue 2 play, as Roberto Mancini has made it abundantly clear he won't pick the Argentine again aft he allegedly refused 2 come on as a sub against Bayern Munich tis week.

No 1 will officially comment @ West Ham becos of the sensitivity of the situation & City r not going 2 make an instant decision while they take legal advice over the extent 2 which they can punish Tevez.

However, a source confirmed 2 ESPNsoccernet tat West Ham hv made a move 2 bring Tevez 2 the club, saying: "Yes, I can confirm it is true. He's an ex-player tat the fans love. They might hate him in Manchester, but he'd get a huge reception @ Upton Park.''

Having handed Tevez a 2-week suspension, with fines close to £500,000, City r seeking advice fr the FA & PFA whether the suspension can be extended to 6 weeks.

The situation has put City in2 a difficult position, with Mancini gaining the full backing of the owners 2 'ban' Tevez fr the team. But as tat serves no useful purpose 2 the club, they might see the benefit of allowing him 2 go 2 West Ham, who would pay a percentage of the player's £200,000-a-week basic wages for a 3-month spell.

Corinthians were ready 2 pay £40 million 4 Tevez just 2 months ago, but it is felt tat the player's value is now halved, which would encourage other clubs 2 join the bidding 2 sign him in January.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/964114/manchester-city-turn-down-west-ham-bid-for-tevez?cc=4716

City turn down Tevez offer
September 30, 2011

ManC hv turned down West Ham's approach 2 sign suspended striker Carlos Tevez on loan, with the club intent on concluding disciplinary matters b4 addressing the player's future.

ESPNsoccernet understands a sense of "outrage" permeates the City hierarchy over the Tevez affair, which was sparked by his apparent refusal 2 come on as a substitute in their Champions League meeting with Bayern Munich. City hv not ruled out pursuing Tevez's outright dismissal on the grounds of gross misconduct.

1 option is 4 City 2 sack Tevez now, but hold his registration in a bid 2 sell him in January, or claim compensation. With tis in mind, it appears loaning Tevez 2 a Championship team, such as his former club West Ham, is simply not on the agenda.

In conducting their internal investigation, City r taking statements fr the players who sat beside Tevez on the bench in Munich 2 establish the facts.

ESPNsoccernet has found nothing 2 substantiate claims fr the Tevez camp tat his team-mates will confirm he refused 2 warm-up, but not 2 play. Tat rumour is being put down 2 Tevez's change of PR company, & their attempts 2 clear his name.

Returning 2 West Ham's approach, it appears the Championship club wanted 2 take Tevez on a 3-month deal 2 Upton Park, but 2 no avail. An insider told ESPNsoccernet: "Tat shows West Ham's ambitions, but it was nothing more than an informal enquiry, but it is not going 2 happen."

[joew2005]

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/paul-parker/article/45199/

Greedy City deserve Tevez treatment
Fri Sep 30

Carlos Tevez's conduct against Bayern Munich was utterly reprehensible, but ManC deserve such treatment 4 the greedy & egotistical manner in which they dealt with the Argentine's transfer saga over the summer.

Tevez made it very clear tat he was desperate 2 leave the club 4 a variety of diff reasons, but City were hell-bent on securing an astronomical fee 4 the 4ward. In so doing, the club put $ over the values of team spirit & unity.

The club r now paying the price 4 the arrogant way in which they behaved over the transfer window, slapping absurd fees on the head of the Argentine with $ absolutely no object, effectively mocking him in the process.

Tis should not sound like a conspiracy theory, but City hv been desperate 2 come out of tis whole episode looking the more mature of the parties involved, & they will not be 2 disappointed tat Tevez has now done tis.

There is never any justifiable excuse 4 a professional footballer not being willing 2 come off the bench & put in a shift 4 the club, 4 his colleagues & 4 the manager, but Tevez will be feeling incredibly aggrieved himself.

All the sympathy is with Roberto Mancini & Tevez's City team-mates, while it could be argued that the way in which the 4ward himself has been treated is pretty shabby.

Mancini has humiliated the striker by keeping him confined 2 the substitutes' bench 4 the most part of the season thus far, despite his staggeringly prolific exploits in the last campaign.

It is never easy 4 any player 2 be on the sidelines, particularly when the individual involved knows full well tat he is a real star & deserves his place in the side on merit.

Tevez is a real gem of a player, & there is nothing more upsetting or demoralising 4 a footballer of his calibre 2 find themselves shunted down the pecking order 4 reasons outside of wat happens on the pitch.

At ManU, there is complete unity: fr the cleaner all the way up 2 the manager. The players accept the way the club is run fr the moment they walk in, & tat continues 2 keep SAF's squad in place.

The simple fact is tat City hv allowed themselves 2 become embroiled in tis ongoing saga with Tevez, & only hv themselves 2 blame. The suits @ the club hv constantly been @ loggerheads with the Argentine, & the whole matter has been treated pretty distastefully.

The trouble with a club like City buying their way 2 a powerful position such as tis, is tat egos r rife & there r many individuals who simply overstep the mark.

City r much better off without Garry Cook, & they will be much better off without Tevez, but there r ways of dealing with such situations with class & respect.

The club should hv got rid of the 4ward over the summer, & they will wish tat they did not let pride & matters of principle interfere with the best interests of the squad as a whole.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/964233/manchester-city-to-interview-carlos-tevez?cc=4716

City to interview Tevez
October 1, 2011

ESPNsoccernet has learned Carlos Tevez will be interviewed by ManC next week over his apparent refusal 2 come on as a substitute during the club's 2-0 Champions League loss @ Bayern Munich on Tuesday.

City 1 2 ascertain Tevez's version of events, having spoken 2 a number of his team-mates over the last 48 hours 2 determine whether the Argentina striker did indeed refuse 2 be brought on by manager Roberto Mancini or, as Tevez has suggested, there was instead a disagreement over his warm-up.

Tevez, 27, has been handed a max suspension of 2 weeks following the incident, although the club r considering speaking with the PFA over having the ban extended 2 as long as 6 weeks, with Mancini keen 2 see the 4ward excluded fr 1st-team affairs 4 the longer term following their disagreement.

Amid suggestions City could go as far as 2 outright dismiss Tevez - who was linked with a loan move 2 West Ham on Friday - on the grounds of gross misconduct, PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor has urged 4 calm while the club conduct their investigation.

Taylor said: "Let's wait & see wat emerges fr the club's internal enquiries. Until then I would ask 4 a cool it period. We need 2 find out exactly wat occurred in the cold light of day b4 passing any judgments. The club intend 2 speak with the manager, the coaches & the players 2 find out the facts of wat occurred & we r keeping a watching brief."

A report in Saturday's press tat Mancini's son, Filippo, refused 2 come off the substitutes' bench in a City reserve game has been played down by the club as irrelevant.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/964811/carlos-tevez%27s-manchester-city-subsitution-snub-may-cost-him-L2m?cc=4716

Tevez sub snub may cost him £2m
October 1, 2011

Troubled ManC striker Carlos Tevez could lose out on £2 million of wages shld the club prove tat he was guilty of gross misconduct when he refused 2 come on as a substitute, ESPNsoccernet understands.

City suspended Tevez aft his controversial behaviour in Munich on Tuesday, though he is still taking home the entirety of his staggering £250,000-a-week wages.

The Argentinian star's reputation has taken a pounding since he refused 2 take 2 the field during the 2-0 Champions League defeat 2 Bayern Munich, but he could now also be hit financially.

ESPNsoccernet can disclose tat Tevez wanted 2 leave the country with his family 2 escape the furore caused by events @ the Allianz Arena, but his plans were scuppered when City demanded he attend an internal inquiry on Monday.

"We hv not placed any restrictions on Carlos Tevez's travel plans nor hv we vetoed them," a City insider told ESPNsoccernet. "He is required 2 take part in the clubs internal examination of wat occurred."

The former club captain will hv the opportunity 2 persuade his employers tat he was not @ fault in Munich, though City r believed 2 be building a case tat will prove Tevez's actions constituted gross misconduct.

Should he be found guilty, the club will seek 2 punish him with a retrospective fine 4 the initial 2-week suspension, & would then apply 2 players' union, the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA), 2 hv the suspension & fine extended for 6 further weeks, which would see fines totalling £2 million.

Tat would leave just over a month left b4 the opening of the January transfer window, & the best Tevez can hope 4 is a run out in the reserves.

Whatever the outcome of next week's hearing, there is no chance of Tevez ever playing 4 Roberto Mancini's 1st team again.

ESPNsoccernet has been informed tat the "collective indignation" tat greeted Tevez's actions still persists & tat point of view shows no sign of subsiding.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/964945/manchester-city's-micah-richards:-carlos-tevez-in-the-wrong?cc=4716

Richards: Tevez in the wrong
October 2, 2011

ManC defender Micah Richards feels team-mate Carlos Tevez's actions against Bayern Munich in the Champions League tis week were "wrong".

Tevez is alleged 2 hv refused 2 come on as a substitute as City trailed 2-0 @ the Allianz Arena, leaving manager Roberto Mancini furious post the final whistle, the Italian stating the striker will not play 4 the club again under his stewardship.

The Argentina international, who was linked with a move away fr the Etihad Stadium in the summer, has subsequently been banned by City 4 a max of 2 weeks, while there hv even been suggestions his side could terminate his contract, pending an investigation in2 the affair.

Richards told The People: "Carlos' reaction in Munich was wrong. It was something he shouldn't hv done. There was always going 2 be a bit of tension becos Carlos is a top player & hasn't been getting in the team. But there was no sign tat he was going 2 do wat he did.

"I like Carlos. He's probably still the best player tat I hv played with & I'll always be grateful he came 2 City & helped us achieve wat we did last season. He's been our best player 4 the last couple of years & won't be happy the manager has been picking other strikers ahead of him.

"But we r a top team now. We can't just be abt 1 or 2 players becos if u 1 2 challenge 4 the big trophies it has 2 be abt the strength of your squad. There's a lesson 4 us 2 learn here. If we 1 2 be a top team then as individuals we hv 2 sacrifice ourselves.

"I went thru it myself. I might not be a big name like Carlos Tevez but I m an England international & I thought I should be playing in every game. You do get emotional. Your pride does hurt. I found it hard when I wasn't in the team & @ times I did struggle 2 just keep my head down & say nothing.

"I've been rotating with Pablo Zabaleta. At left-back it's been Kolarov & Clichy. It's the same with the midfielders & the 4wards. Aguero & Dzeko hv been on fire tis season & when Balotelli came on last week against Everton he scored an important goal.

"I thought Carlos was just waiting 4 his chance 2 show wat he could do. You're never happy if you aren't playing, but we've got a big squad & we've all just got 2 use it."

Meanwhile, City captain Vincent Kompany has insisted the squad's harmony has been unaffected by the dispute. He said: "No doubt ppl will be expecting ManC 2 fall apart aft wat happened in Munich, but tat isn't going 2 happen," said Kompany.

"Every team will lose games & hv setbacks, but there won't be many games more difficult than Bayern away. Okay, so some things hv happened tat aren't good, but ppl should just calm down a little bit.

"We will bounce back very quickly. I can't give any answer abt Carlos Tevez becos I don't know wat was going thru his mind & I don't know wat happened becos I was on the pitch.

"I hv been here 3 years & I know there r people out there who 1 us 2 fail. But I don't care. All the other players don't care. Wat outsiders think abt our club means nothing 2 us.

"The negative things ppl say abt us bring us closer 2gether as a team. The only ppl we care abt r the fans, players & ppl of ManC. As captain I can tell u there is no problems betw the players.

"We hv a great group, a strong group. The atmosphere has been good tis season. We will hv our disappointments along the way, but we will learn fr them & we will get stronger."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/965860/sir-alex-ferguson:-manchester-city's-start-no-shock?cc=4716

Ferguson: City start no shock
October 4, 2011

ManU manager SAF has been unsurprised by ManC's strong start 2 the 2011-12 Premier League campaign.

The 2 clubs r locked on 19 points @ the top of the table, both sides having won 6 & drawn 1 of their opening 7 matches of the season.

City finished in 3rd last term, 9 points behind champions United, but, with the likes of Sergio Aguero arriving in the summer, Ferguson anticipated a fiercer test fr their rivals tis time around.

"I've said all along tat would happen," Ferguson told Inside United. "They r a good team & they were always going 2 be there or thereabouts.

"Sergio Aguero was bound 2 do well, coming in2 the Premier League, becos he is such a goal threat around the penalty box. David Silva is also a very good player. We just hv 2 make sure we r ready 4 City when we meet them."

United & City lock horns @ Old Trafford on October 23, & Ferguson says the vast spending power @ Roberto Mancini's disposal has shifted the way the derby is perceived.

"All derbies r big now, tat is the nature of the landscape," Ferguson said. "The impetus City now hv - they hv a huge squad of players & the financial power 2 attract some of the best footballers in the world - actually changes the focus of the derby these days.

"The talking point isn't so much the actual game but the dynamics of how ManC hv changed football & wat we do 2 compete with tat."

Ferguson also outlined his hopes tat United will perform when they face rivals Liverpool @ Anfield when the international break is over, having suffered a 3-1 defeat in the corresponding fixture last term.

"We hv been poor there of late," Ferguson said. "On a couple of occasions we hv been out-fought by them, which is disappointing. The atmosphere plays a part. Every time we go there it is as if it's the biggest game of the century."


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/965742/man-city's-carlos-tevez-sticks-to-his-version-of-events-in-munich?cc=4716

Tevez: I did not refuse to play
October 4, 2011

Carlos Tevez continues 2 insist tat he refused 2 warm up but didn't refuse 2 play when ordered 2 by his manager Roberto Mancini during ManC's Champions League match @ Bayern Munich.

Tevez has been quizzed by the club over the controversial incident & ESPNsoccernet understands tat his distinction regarding his indiscipline might not be enough 2 save the striker fr a charge of gross misconduct by the club.

City's lawyers r studying the terms of Tevez's contract aft the £50 million striker was interviewed @ his Cheshire home on Monday.

A club car carrying a legal representative & a member of City's human resources staff arrived @ the player's house in Alderley Edge @ abt 16.00 BST & left 80 mins later. City were anxious 2 hold it away fr the Etihad Stadium & the Carrington training complex 4 fear of a media scrum, & it is possible tat he could be interviewed 4 a 2nd time b4 a final decision is reached.

Tevez continues 2 deny Mancini's claim tat he refused 2 come on as a substitute. He claims tat he told Mancini tat, having already warmed up, there was no need 4 him 2 warm up again.

Tevez does not believe he needs 2 apologise 2 Mancini as he still insists he has done nothing wrong. But it was pointed out 2 Tevez & his camp tat immediately aft the game he gave a televised interview in which he stated he was not in the right mind 2 play.

Tat footage forms part of City's internal inquiry, while Mancini has submitted an official complaint 2 his employers. Members of the coaching & fitness staff who were in the dug-out back up Mancini's version of events.

City hv interviewed most of Tevez's team-mates who were on the substitutes' bench but not all of them as yet.

The outcome of the internal enquiry is due by the end of tis week, & it doesn't look promising 4 Tevez.

ESPNsoccernet has learned tat the club's owners & hierarchy r backing Mancini's stance tat Tevez will not play 4 City again.

A 2-week suspension with full pay is currently in place but if gross misconduct is established, then Tevez will be fined 2 weeks' wages.

The next step is 2 take the issue 2 the Professional Footballers' Association 2 hv a further 6-week ban & fine imposed a total of 2 months' wages will cost the player around £2 million.

With the transfer window opening in January, Tevez will then play reserve team football 4 a month. If he refuses he will be suspended & fined all over again. Tat could take the cost of his actions abv the £3 million mark.

City r concerned tat Tevez has hired a PR representative since Munich & there has been, according 2 club sources, a great deal of mischief making - 2 the extent of a smear campaign against Mancini.

City hv not ordered Tevez 2 call off a holiday with his family, as he is not in Argentina's squad 4 their 1st 2 WC qualifiers, but merely 2 stay 4 the interviews, & Tevez will be permitted 2 leave the country as soon as the hearing is concluded.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/966208/kia-joorabchian:-carlos-tevez-was-mistranslated?cc=4716

Joorabchian: Tevez was mistranslated
October 5, 2011

Carlos Tevez's adviser, Kia Joorabchian, has reiterated his claim the Argentine did not refuse 2 play 4 ManC in their Champions League defeat @ Bayern Munich.

Tevez, 27, is serving a 2-week suspension aft allegedly disobeying the instructions of City manager Roberto Mancini during last week's 2-0 loss @ the Allianz Arena.

The 4ward, whose future looks set 2 lie away fr the Etihad Stadium, appears 2 hv acknowledged tat he refused 2 warm up but denies declining 2 take 2 the field, a view backed by Joorabchian.

Tevez said in a post-match television interview: "I did not feel right 2 play, so I did not." But Joorabchian claimed the translation of the questions put 2 Tevez was not accurate.

Joorabchian said @ the Leaders in Football conference: "1 of the biggest problems is tat aft a game questions r asked & if the interpreter is not professional you hv a problem. He has been unfairly judged & condemned b4 the case has been looked in2.

"You can criticise Carlos 4 many things but not his commitment on the pitch. Sometimes he has played 4 City aft having injections & with swollen ankles. He plays when doctors tell him not 2 play. It is my opinion he is a player who fights 2 play.

"ManC & Carlos r in a very difficult position. Carlos has stated it was a misunderstanding & apologised 2 the City fans 4 tat misunderstanding.

"I cannot predict wat he 1s 2 do. We should wait until the investigation has run its course, & then both parties can sit down & decide wat they will do."

Joorabchian claimed several Premier League stars had refused 2 play 4 clubs during the summer but their managers handled the situation differently.

"Tis is a personal relationship betw 2 ppl. We hv seen tis happen all thru the summer," Joorabchian said. "We hv seen [Cesc] Fabregas, [Samir] Nasri & [Luka] Modric - the list goes on - but they r the high-profile names who hv handed in transfer requests, refused 2 travel, refused 2 play. Tat is a problem in general.

"My opinion is they refused 2 play in a diff way & those managers & the clubs handled them very differently. Roberto has his style of management & it is very direct & very different 2 SAF, Arsene Wenger or Carlo Ancelotti.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/966656/manchester-city's-tevez-stance-unaffected?cc=4716

City's Tevez stance unaffected
October 7, 2011

ManC hv been unaffected by Kia Joorabchian's claims tat Carlos Tevez was mistranslated during his post-match interview @ Bayern Munich.

Tevez, 27, has been suspended by City for 2 wks aft allegedly refusing 2 come on as substitute 4 the club in their 2-0 Champions League loss @ the Allianz Arena last month.

Aft the match, Tevez said: "I did not feel right 2 play, so I did not." But tis week the Argentine's adviser, Joorabchian, suggested the translation of the questions put 2 Tevez was not accurate.

Tevez, who has suggested the mix-up was over his warm-up & not him refusing 2 play, is currently waiting 2 discover his long-term fate, with a lengthening of his ban mooted followed by a possible sale in January.

A City insider told ESPNsoccernet: "All the public comments & the media inferences don't really amount 2 much, & can be irrelevant, as an internal enquiry is on-going.

"What is happening in the media is not going 2 deflect the club form coming to the right conclusions."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/966712/corinthians-not-keen-on-city's-carlos-tevez?cc=4716

Corinthians not keen on Tevez
October 7, 2011

Corinthians currently hv no plans 2 renew their interest in ManC striker Carlos Tevez, according 2 general manager Edu.

Tevez's future @ the Etihad Stadium is uncertain aft he was handed a 2-week suspension by City 4 allegedly refusing 2 come on as a substitute in September's 2-0 Champions League loss @ Bayern Munich.

Brazilian club Corinthians were strongly linked with Tevez, 27, in the summer but a move failed 2 materialise, & ultimately he remained in the Premier League despite expressing his wishes 2 play nearer his Argentina-based family.

Former Arsenal & Brazil midfielder Edu told BBC Sport: "At the moment there r no plans 2 try & sign him again.

"I'm starting 2 think abt our new squad for 2012 & I've talked 2 our coach [Tite] abt wat we need - but Tevez was not mentioned.

"We r always interested in world-class players like Carlos but you need 2 analyse if it's right 4 u @ tat time 2 try 2 sign him or not. We hv not spoken 2 him or his agent.

"As things stand, we hv not considered going 4 Tevez. On Wednesday I spoke to our club president [Andres Sanchez] 2 see if he wanted me 2 make contact & start negotiations while I'm over in Europe but he said no, it's up 2 u 2 decide.

"Of course, tat could change. It's nice 2 be over here 2 see the real situation of Tevez & speak 2 ppl abt him. Then we can start 2 decide if it's right 4 us 2 try again."

Edu felt the time constraints surrounding their attempts 2 land Tevez in the summer were the cause 4 the deal failing 2 be rubber-stamped, as the Brazilian transfer window closed on July 21.

He said: "I was talking 2 ManC in July & we tried 2 buy him 4 €40million but the negotiations were not easy. We needed 2 arrange bank guarantees & other things. 2 organise all of tat in 2 or 3 days was very difficult. That's why we lost him."

Edu also commented on Tevez's apparent refusal 2 play 4 City, adding: "It is very strange 4 me 2 hear tat he refused 2 come on. Every player knows tat sometimes u hv 2 be on bench, u work 4 the team whether you're playing or not.

"They pay him 2 work 4 the team whether he plays or not. I was a player & I can understand tat sometimes it doesn't feel good 2 be on the bench, but if he decided not 2 play tat was a very bad decision."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/967643/diego-maradona:-carlos-tevez-too-expensive-for-al-wasl?cc=4716

Maradona: Tevez too expensive
October 9, 2011

Al-Wasl coach Diego Maradona has ruled out a move 4 wantaway ManC striker Carlos Tevez becos he is 2 expensive.

Maradona, who was dismissed as Argentine national coach aft last year's WC, joined the Dubai-based club tis summer & has rich backers who hv already spent over £10 million 2 bring in new players.

He has guided the side 2 two wins aft an opening run of 3 defeats, but was humbled 5-0 in the Etisalat Cup by Dubai on Saturday & was asked if the capture of Tevez would help turn the club around.

However, he told Sport 360: "Tevez is very expensive. He will cost alot of $ & right now we hv a budget 4 around 5% of the fee he commands."

Tevez, 27, has indicated tat he 1s 2 leave City & came under fire 4 allegedly refusing 2 come on fr the bench against Bayern Munich in the Champions League. He has currently been suspended for 2 weeks as the club undertake an investigation in2 events tat the Argentine has described as a 'misunderstanding'.

Qatari-backed PSG & Russian side Anzhi r currently the favs 2 land Tevez as Brazilian side Corinthians, who reportedly made a £40 million bid 4 him a few months ago, hv revealed tat they r not prepared 2 return 4 him in January.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/967710/west-ham-to-make-formal-approach-for-man-city's-carlos-tevez?cc=4716

West Ham to make formal approach
October 10, 2011

West Ham plan a make an official bid 2 take Carlos Tevez on loan fr ManC 4 3 months tis week.

The Hammers will say they can put Tevez in the shop window pending a permanent transfer in January, & take the £50 million-rated striker out of manager Roberto Mancini's sight.

City need 2 keep Tevez match fit & sharp 2 persuade clubs 2 take Tevez off their hands without having 2 accept a cut-price deal, & a 3-month loan would suit both clubs.

There has been interest in the £250,000-a-week striker, but so far suitors hv been put off as the total cost of any deal means the player is just 2 expensive 2 buy.

Wealthy Middle East club Al-Wasl, now managed by Diego Maradona, hv denied they hv an interest.

But Corinthians, who desperately wanted him in the summer, could be back in the race despite declaring last week tat they were out of the reckoning.

Corinthians director of football Edu told Sky Sports News "It was quite difficult 2 sign him becos @ the time it was shortly b4 our transfer window. Now we r here [in England] & we will talk & see wat the situation is & we will look 2 sign him in the summer.

"I will talk 2 the president - we offered ¬40 million & now the $ we had we hv spent some of as tat is football. We 1 2 see how Tevez is & wat his situation is, we will see if we can do a deal - he is very famous in Brazil & every1 loves him, & the fans 1 him.

"I spoke 2 him [Tevez's agent Kia Joorabchian] @ the [Leaders in Football ] congress, but very formal not really abt Tevez yet - we r quite friendly & hv a good relationship but not abt Tevez yet.

"It is alot of things 2 think abt. Carlos Tevez has alot of things around him."

In the meantime, the Championship side fr East London r serious abt bringing Tevez back 2 Upon Park until he is sold by City.

Aft an initial telephone call immediately aft Tevez was suspended for 2 weeks 4 his alleged refusal 2 come off the bench during the 2-0 defeat in Munich in the Champions League, the Hammers r preparing 2 make a more official bid 1s City hv announced the outcome of their internal enquiry - expected on Monday or Tuesday.

A City insider told ESPNsoccernet: "We did receive a call fr West Ham, but there was no formal offer."

And a Hammers source confirmed: "We r serious abt Tevez, but there is nothing more 4 us 2 say @ the moment."

Tevez saved West Ham fr relegation in 2007 & now they see the Argentine as the man 2 inspire their bid 2 reclaim a spot in the Premier League.

However, there is only a remote chance tat the Hammers can succeed as they 1 City 2 continue 2 pay the bulk of the player's salary. West Ham concede their chances r slim, but they plan 2 give it a go.



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/967714/wages-issue-for-emmanuel-adebayor-transfer-from-man-city-to-spurs?cc=4716

Wages problematic for Ade move
October 10, 2011

Emmanuel Adebayor's impressive start 2 his loan spell with Tottenham Hotspur has already led 2 talk of a permanent move fr ManC, but the player would hv 2 accept a drop in wages 2 make the move happen.

Adebayor is Spurs' top scorer with 3 Premier League goals in 4 appearances, & he also has 2 assists 2 his name. But boss Harry Redknapp played down the chances of buying the striker.

Redknapp said: "If Emmanuel maintains his current form I would love 2 keep him but his wages r going 2 be a major stumbling block, that's 4 sure.

"I hv no idea how much we r paying 2wards his wages @ the moment as the chairman [Daniel Levy] deals with those issues but I suspect they r massively subsidised by City.

"The only way we can realistically get a deal done is if Emmanuel is prepared 2 take a substantial pay-cut & put his football b4 $."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/968510/city-keeping-tabs-on-hamsik-and-lavezzi?cc=4716

City keeping tabs on Napoli pair
October 12, 2011

ManC 1st-team coach Fausto Salsano has claimed the club r keeping a close eye on Napoli pair Marek Hamsik & Ezequiel Lavezzi.

City hv locked horns with Napoli tis season, the clubs playing out a 1-1 draw @ the Ethiad Stadium in their opening match of Champions League Group A.

Both midfielder Hamsik & 4ward Lavezzi featured in tat game, & Salsano concedes City would be interested in adding the duo 2 their ranks.

"They r 2 players who we like becos our objective @ City is 2 do great things & win," Salsano told Radio Crc.

"Hamsik has become an important player with the right experience, while Lavezzi is devastating & can hurt people in 1 on 1 situations."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/968587/carlos-tevez-facing-further-punishment-from-manchester-city?cc=4716

Tevez facing further punishment
October 12, 2011

ESPNsoccernet understands Carlos Tevez is facing further punishment fr ManC 4 his alleged refusal 2 play @ Bayern Munich.

Tevez returned 2 England on Wednesday ahead of the completion of his 2-week suspension aft an apparent unwillingness 2 enter the field as a substitute when called upon by manager Roberto Mancini as City trailed 2-0 @ Bayern in the Champions League.

The Argentina international has already given his version of events 2 City, with the 4ward seemingly suggesting he refused 2 repeat his warm up, rather than refuse 2 enter the field of play @ the Allianz Arena.

ESPNsoccernet has now learned Tevez will be given an opportunity 2 react 2 City's findings fr their inquiry. Conflicting opinions r believed 2 hv been offered by the various players who sat alongside Tevez on the substitutes' bench.

City r considering a strong statement of intent over the incident, with Tevez potentially facing a fine & an increased suspension subject 2 PFA approval, meaning the Argentine could be demoted 2 the reserves ahead of a loan move or a sale in January.

The club's hierarchy remain firmly behind Mancini, who said aft the Bayern game tat Tevez would never play again under his stewardship. An official statement fr City is expected on Wednesday evening.

Meanwhile, Juventus general director Giuseppe Marotta has denied reports tat his club hv started negotiations 2 sign the unsettled striker.

Marotta told Gazzetta dello Sport: "It's normal 2 talk abt players when it comes 2 Juventus. But we hv not started negotiations 2 sign Tevez.

"We hv a squad tat meets our needs & we will evaluate week by week if we r lacking something. We r not the 1s 2 discover Tevez. He is a great player & we r a great club so it's normal tat there is a link, but 2 say tat we r negotiating is a diff matter."

Corinthians remain potential suitors 4 Tevez, aft the club made an offer 4 the 4ward in the summer, but it appears any renewed interest in his signature will see a bid lodged below City's previous asking price of £40 million.

Corinthians president Andres Sanches said in the Daily Mail: "We made an offer in the window, he is a player who interests us, but only in January will we see if we hv a chance. He is not worth £40 million - we will make an offer well below it.

"I don't know if they will accept it, the (financial) gap is huge. I hv a value in mind but I won't say wat it is. The written offer of £40m isn't worth anything nw. Aft all of the problems, he should be worthless. What if he brings these problems here?"

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/969827/premier-league:-city-climb-above-united?cc=4716

City climb above United
October 15, 2011

SAF took a huge gamble with his 4ward line @ Anfield on Saturday, & he needed Javier Hernandez 2 emerge fr the bench 2 produce a rescue act as ManU earned a 1-1 draw with Liverpool. ManC r now the Premier League leaders aft they beat Aston Villa.

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard, making his 1st start of the season, appeared 2 hv won the derby when he fed a free-kick thru a hospitable-looking United wall in the lunchtime kick-off. However, having failed 2 threaten 4 the majority of the opening 80 mins, United snatched a draw late on when Hernandez arrived unmarked @ a corner.

There was huge news 4 both sides prior 2 kick-off as a combined total of over £150 million of talent was left on the 2 benches. Liverpool confirmed the selection of fit-again skipper Gerrard @ the expense of Andy Carroll, while United's XI featured neither Wayne Rooney nor Hernandez.

Without their star attackers United created next 2 nothing until their late equaliser, & in a tight 1st half Liverpool had the 1 clear opening when Luis Suarez bore down on the United goal, only 2 then make life difficult 4 himself. Staying alive 2 Charlie Adam's mishit shot, Suarez had the goal directly in front of him on his favoured right foot, but he decided 2 fake inside Jonny Evans on2 his left b4 softly shooting straight @ David De Gea.

Liverpool were undoubtedly the better side aft half-time &, aft Dirk Kuyt saw a huge penalty appeal turned down, the Reds took the lead thru Gerrard. Rio Ferdinand was initially fortunate 2 escape a 2nd yellow card 4 felling Adam on the edge of the box, but the foul allowed Gerrard 2 find a whole in the wall caused by Ryan Giggs, giving De Gea no chance in the United goal.

Ferguson responded by throwing Rooney, Nani & Hernandez in2 the fray, & it was the Mexican who equalised fr a corner nine mins fr time. Still there was time 2 win the match & Kuyt should hv done so when his stretching half volley was superbly saved by De Gea, although the Spaniard's best was yet 2 come as he flung himself full length 2 deny Jordan Henderson's dipping volley in injury-time.

ManC were able 2 take advantage of United's slip in their home clash with Aston Villa, defeating Alex McLeish's side 4-1 @ the Etihad Stadium. Roberto Mancini's men continue 2 cope well with the ongoing Carlos Tevez saga, & they now hold a 2-point lead @ the top thanks 2 goals fr Mario Balotelli, Adam Johnson, Vincent Kompany & James Milner.

If there has been a silver lining 2 the cloud caused by the Tevez substitution storm, it is the fact tat Balotelli has been handed more game time in City blue. The Italian was excellent against Blackburn b4 the international break & he got on the scoresheet 1s again aft 28 mins against Villa, sending an overhead kick rattling past former City keeper Shay Given.

2 mins into the 2nd half it was 2-0 when Stephen Warnock's slip allowed Johnson 2 bear down on Given, sliding the ball past the Villa keeper with the minimum of fuss. And by the 52nd min it was game over when Kompany got in on the act, arriving @ the near post 2 glance home Johnson's corner.

Warnock gave Villa a glimmer when he slammed the ball past Joe Hart off the bar, but Milner ended the hopes of his former club with a sublime finish 4 City's 4th.

Chelsea emphatically ended their Everton hoodoo 2 move back 2 within 3 points of ManC with a 3-1 victory @ Stamford Bridge.

The Blues had not beaten Everton since the 2009 FA Cup final & were looking 4 their 1st home win against them in 6 seasons, but goals fr Daniel Sturridge, John Terry & Ramires sealed victory.

Apostolos Vellios netted a late consolation with his 1st touch aft coming off the bench, but Chelsea - inspired by the outstanding Juan Mata - were worthy winners.

At the bottom of the table, Blackburn boss Steve Kean continues 2 find himself under pressure aft Rovers could only draw 1-1 with new boys Queens Park Rangers @ Loftus Road. Defeat leaves Blackburn with just 5 points fr 8 games @ the foot of the table.

In fairness 2 Rovers, there was some fortune attached 2 the opening goal 4 QPR, aft Heidar Helguson's mishit cross found its way over Paul Robinson. Fortunately they only trailed for 8 mins b4 Christopher Samba towered over the Rangers defence 2 level with a trademark header.

Bolton are another side in trouble @ the bottom, but boss Owen Coyle's cause was helped by a 3-1 win against Wigan @ the DW Stadium. Victory lifts the Trotters abv Wigan & out of the bottom 3.

It took just 4 mins 4 Bolton 2 take the lead, Nigel Reo-Coker scoring his 1st Premier League goal for 3 years. However, Wigan were level by the break thanks 2 a curling Mohamed Diame effort fr outside the penalty area.

By half-time Bolton had the noses in front 1s more though, with former Liverpool man David N'Gog converting Kevin Davies' assist fr close range, & it could hv been more comfortable but 4 a woeful penalty miss by Davies - who clipped a soft effort straight @ Ali Al-Habsi. In the end, Bolton had 2 wait until injury-time 4 Chris Eagles 2 settle matters.

Swansea are yet to concede @ home this season but their away form provides a stark contrast aft they conceded goals 10, 11 & 12 in a 3-1 defeat 2 Norwich. Norwich had not scored in the 1st half hour of any league match prior 2 kick-off, but they struck inside the 1st minute @ Carrow Road, Anthony Pilkington doing wat he could not manage @ Old Trafford by finding the net - scoring the quickest Premier League goal of the season in 49 seconds.

It was 2-0 aft 10 mins when Russell Martin capitalised on some poor Swansea defending, but by the 12th the Swans were back in it as Danny Graham swept home aft Scott Sinclair's excellent run. The goal did not inspire a comeback though as Pilkington added his 2nd fr 3 yards, helping Norwich on2 a healthy 11-point tally.

The day's other afternoon fixture saw Stoke continue their European ambitions with a hard-earned 2-0 victory over Fulham @ the Britannia Stadium. It looked like Stoke might be left 2 rue Jermaine Pennant's profligacy in front of goal, but Jon Walters struck with 10 mins remaining b4 Rory Delap killed the Cottagers off.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/970606/roberto-mancini-unconcerned-by-man-city-contract-silence?cc=4716

Mancini eyeing City stay
October 17, 2011

Manager Roberto Mancini believes ManC hv become 1 of the best clubs in the world & 1s 2 stay @ the Premier League leaders 4 many years 2 prove it.

Mancini has led City 2 their best start 2 a season since 1897 - winning 7 of their 1st 8 league games - having lifted the FA Cup & sealed Champions League qualification in the last campaign.

The former Inter Milan boss, who succeeded Mark Hughes in December 2009, said: "I hv worked hard 2 build a good team & I think I would like 2 stay here another 3 or 4 years becos I think in tis moment ManC is 1 of the best clubs in the world.''

His contract is set 2 expire in the summer of 2013 &, despite not hearing anything fr the club abt fresh terms, he is unconcerned abt his future. "Aft tis year I hv 1 more year & I don't hv a problem with tis. I haven't talked 2 the club but @ the moment it is not important," Mancini said.

City face a crucial Champions League tie @ home 2 Villarreal on Tuesday as they bid 2 put right a slow start 2 their inaugural campaign. Mancini's men opened with a draw against Napoli, then fell 2 defeat against Bayern Munich in a match overshadowed by Carlos Tevez's alleged refusal 2 come off the bench.

But despite the striker's future casting a cloud over the club @ present following his return fr suspension, Mancini remains upbeat. "My feeling here is good. I would like 2 stay here but in football every week it can change," he said. "If you lose 2 or 3 games, tat can change all - but we r working well."

Argentina 4ward Sergio Aguero returned 2 training on Monday ahead of the Champions League clash & could return 2 the side with Mario Balotelli, impressive in the 4-1 defeat of Aston Villa on Saturday, suspended.

David Silva, Samir Nasri & Edin Dzeko, all substitutes @ the weekend as Mancini juggled his resources, could also come back in.

Villarreal hv lost both of their games in the competition & City 1 2 maximise their back-2-back home & away matches against the Spaniards 2 get in2 contention @ the top of the group.

Mancini said: "Villarreal r a good team. They r used 2 playing Champions League, they hv done so many times in the past 10 years. It will be hard becos they play football very well.

"But 4 us I don't think it is as important 2 play well or not well - it is important we win tis game. I think if we win tis game I think we can win also the group, we hv a chance I think.

"Aft tis we hv another 3 games & I think with 10 points we can go in2 the 2nd stage, but it is important 2 start 2 win 2morrow.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/970802/boca-juniors-would-welcome-carlos-tevez-return?cc=4716

Boca Juniors keen on Tevez return
October 18, 2011

Boca Juniors r the latest club 2 express an interest in signing ostracised ManC striker Carlos Tevez.

Tevez was with the Argentine giants for 7 years betw 1997 & 2004 - making his professional debut in 2001 - b4 making wat was, @ the time, a surprise move 2 Brazil 2 play 4 Corinthians.

But with his future @ City in some doubt, Boca r interested in signing the controversial 4ward 1s again, aft suffering a long-term injury 2 current striker Lucas Viatri.

"We'll make an attempt 2 get Carlos Tevez," Boca vice-president Jose Beraldi said. "I know it will be difficult, but we will try."

The club r unlikely 2 hv the financial resources 2 sign Tevez on a permanent deal, with a loan the more likely option.

However, the Argentine Football Association would hv 2 change their rules 2 allow the club 2 sign a player fr outside the country during the winter - making the prospect of a switch unlikely, even if it might appeal 2 the player.

Tevez is still awaiting a formal hearing with his current club 2 decide his future, as the investigation in2 "alleged breaches of contract" during City's Champions League clash with Bayern Munich goes on.

Boca r the 3rd of Tevez's 4 former teams 2 show an interest in re-signing their former star, following Corinthians & West Ham's overtures.


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/969088/luciano-moggi-warns-juventus-off-of-carlos-tevez-signing?cc=4716

Juve warned against Tevez interest
October 14, 2011

Luciano Moggi says tat Juventus should 4get abt signing ManC's controversial striker Carlos Tevez.

Former general director, Moggi, who was 1s responsible 4 signing players 4 the Turin side, believes tat Tevez is best left alone.

The Argentinian 4ward, 27, returned 2 training 4 City on Thursday & awaits a club disciplinary hearing 4 a breach of contract aft allegedly refusing 2 play during a Champions League match against Bayern Munich, resulting in an apparently inevitable exit fr the club.

And, with Juventus believed 2 be amongst those interested in Tevez, Moggi has advised the club 2 reconsider any such transfer.

"Buying a dressing room breaker like Carlos Tevez in January would be the biggest disaster ever tat could hit Juventus who r in the process of rebuilding," Moggi wrote in his Tuttomercatoweb column.

He then added tat regardless, the Old Lady - currently managed by ex-midfielder Antonio Conte - r not yet strong enough 2 win tis season's Scudetto: "The quality of the squad is not enough 2 challenge AC Milan, Inter & Napoli 4 the title."

Since their relegation in 2006 4 their role in the Calciopoli scandal, Juventus hv failed 2 seriously challenge 4 the title with Inter & AC Milan becoming Italy's dominant clubs.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/970773/david-silva:-man-city-champions-league-progress-will-be-tough?cc=4716

Silva: UCL progress will be tough
October 17, 2011

David Silva has admitted tat ManC hv made life difficult 4 themselves in their debut Champions League campaign, but has backed the team 2 improve.

City hv claimed just 1 point fr their opening 2 Group A games, which has left them 3rd behind Bayern Munich & Napoli, facing an uphill task 2 advance 2 the knockout stages.

However, Roberto Mancini's side play bottom-of-the-group Villarreal home & away in their next 2 matches, starting with a must-win clash @ Eastlands on Tuesday night.

And Silva, who boasts plenty of experience of playing in the Champions League, & against Villarreal, fr his time @ Valencia, believes tat while City hv shown some naivety in Europe tis season, they r ready 2 kick on & reach the last 16.

"We hv got alot of games under our belt in the league," Silva said. "In the Champions League we hv only played 2 games & those 2 games were against top sides.

"Maybe it is a case of needing a few more games under our belt in tat competition 2 in order 2 get the same consistency we hv been showing in the league.

"We hv made things a little bit hard 4 ourselves but we can start 2 improve 2night.''

But Silva, 25, warned his team-mates against taking their Spanish opponents 4 granted, despite the Yellow Submarine struggling @ home & abroad @ present.

"They r a great side," Silva said. "They like 2 keep hold of the ball, they like 2 pass it around & they can also hit you on the break. We hv got 2 be careful & try 2 retain as much possession as we can & avoid being hit on the counter.''

Silva, whose outstanding personal form has helped City move 2 the top of the Premier League table, is likely 2 return to Mancini's starting line-up having been on the substitutes' bench against Aston Villa on Saturday, while Samir Nasri & Edin Dzeko will also move back in2 the 1st XI.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/971814/nigel-de-jong:-man-city-go-into-the-derby-as-no.-1?cc=4716

De Jong: We travel as No. 1
October 20, 2011

Nigel De Jong believes ManC need no longer head in2 the Manchester derby with an inferiority complex.

City r 2 points ahead of United @ the top of the Premier League table, dropping just 2 points so far tis term. De Jong is delighted 2 go in2 the match @ Old Trafford looking down on SAF's team, & is confident of taking the 3 points which will open up a 5-point gap.

De Jong told the Daily Mirror: "Of course every1 believes we can go there & win. We're going there as No. 1 & the aim is 2 stay No. 1. We r on top of the league so going in2 tat game we just hv 2 be confident & play our game as well as we hv been doing.

"The pressure is still the same as it was last year. But wat has changed is tat we r now No. 1 going in2 tis derby. We don't hv any point 2 prove. We've shown our quality throughout the season. We don't need a game against United 2 show how good we r.

"But it's 2 of the best teams in England going up against each other & I expect it 2 be a great game. Every1 was talking abt tat FA Cup semi-final but we proved we can win. Now we hv 2 go in2 tis game believing we can get the 3 points.

"Every game u win gives you something extra going in2 the next game. Tat's especially the case when you've got a game like tis 1 on Sunday. The belief has always been there 4 us. We're confident but United will be as well. They're @ home & it's a massive game 4 both of us."


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/971778/united's-nani-banks-on-home-record-in-manchester-derby"?cc=4716

Nani banking on home record
October 20, 2011

Nani believes ManU can go in2 every home game expecting 2 win as they prepare 4 the Manchester derby @ Old Trafford on Sunday.

City will make the trip in top form, winning 7 of their 8 Premier League fixtures. Their only dropped points came @ Fulham, when they threw away a 2-goal lead 2 draw 2-2.

But Nani insists there is no reason 4 United 2 fear any1 on their turf.

"City hv a fantastic team @ the moment with fantastic players,'' said the Portugal winger. "They r playing alot of good stuff & it will be difficult 2 play against them.

"But we should not 4get; we r United. When we play @ home it is very hard 2 beat us. Tat is why we r so confident.

"With a record like ours, we should be confident every time we play @ home. We hv 2 believe we r going 2 win most of the games.

"City r 1 of the teams who hv been doing fantastically well since the season started. But there r alot of teams who r doing well & we need 2 be aware of them. Chelsea hv been excellent 4 a start.

"I just feel it is 2 early 2 say it is just going 2 be abt ManU & ManC 4 the title.

"These r the games tat always get the team motivated. When we play these games the team has a different attitude & a different hunger. Every1 likes 2 play in matches like tis 1 & clearly, we hope 2 win as well.''

United hv won 19 consecutive home games in the Premier League, with the win against Norwich breaking a century-old club.

The most consecutive home wins in English football history belongs 2 Bradford Park Avenue who won 25 games in a row betw 1926-27. 2 match tat United would need 2 beat City, Sunderland, Newcastle United, Wolves, Wigan Athletic & finally Blackburn on New Year's Eve.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/972603/sir-alex-ferguson-up-for-man-city-'challenge'?cc=4716

Ferguson up for City 'challenge'
October 21, 2011

SAF says he is excited by the prospect of ManU's most important game of the season 2 date, a real ''6-pointer'' in the derby against City.

Ferguson has been impressed with the start his perceived main rivals 4 the Premier League title hv made &, despite a run tat has seen them win just twice @ Old Trafford in 37 years, knows tat City could find themselves 5 points clear @ the top of the table if they can beat his side.

"It is an exciting prospect," he said. "City hv done fantastically well & if they had not thrown a 2-goal lead away @ Fulham they would hv been top of the league with a 100% record.

"Tis game could be significant @ the end of the season. It is a 6-pointer. It will make a difference 2 whichever team wins it. But it is early doors & u can recover. There is no doubt abt tat. With our record in the 2nd half of the season, you hope tat we will be better."

Current champions United find themselves in the unusual position of being below their local rivals in the table, but Ferguson is relishing the challenge with the focus away fr London sides Arsenal & Chelsea tis season.

"We always accept a challenge @ tis club," he said. "We hv had tat time & time again. Tis is another situation. It is another game in the history of our club & we hv 2 do something abt it.

"You don't always 1 2 be behind clubs, like we were 4 a couple of years with Chelsea. But we showed we had the vigour & determination, & also the decision-making tat got us back in front of tat particular football club."

However, although the last few years hv brought a 7-goal thriller settled by Michael Owen in stoppage time, Wayne Rooney's last-gasp goal 2 seal a Carling Cup semi-final triumph & Yaya Toure's FA Cup semi-final matchwinner, in addition 2 Rooney's spectacular overhead kick in the corresponding fixture last term, Ferguson is not certain another sensational contest is on the horizon.

''There could be goals - but it could also be disappointing,'' accepted Ferguson. ''It is a major game. It is very seldom in major games tat you get alot of goals.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/972456/carlos-tevez-charged-over-warm-up,-decision-delayed-by-man-city?cc=4716

Tevez decision delayed
October 21, 2011

ManC's unsettled striker Carlos Tevez has been charged with failing 2 warm-up against Bayern Munich @ a disciplinary hearing but a final decision over his punishment has been delayed by his club.

Tevez was called off the bench as City were 2-0 down against the Germans, but did not enter the field of play as manager Roberto Mancini attempted 2 shuffle his pack. Mancini later claimed tat the Argentine had refused 2 play & ''would never play 4 the club again'', although Tevez insisted that it had been a miscommunication.

As City launched an investigation in2 the incident, Tevez was suspended for 2 weeks on full pay, but faces a 4 to 6 week suspension & fines of around £1.5 million if found guilty of misconduct - action tat will be approved by the Professional Footballers' Association.

However, City hv decided 2 take their time over deciding wat 2 do with Tevez & a source told ESPNsoccernet: ''No decision will be made on Friday & there r 5 days in which a decision can be reached. Tat doesn't mean tat all 5 days will be used, but the club will be deliberating b4 coming 2 a verdict.''

Sources hv told ESPNsoccernet tat they do not believe the evidence can categorically prove tat Tevez refused 2 play, rather than refused 2 warm-up again, so the hearing has switched focus fr tat. But City insist tis is not a U-turn or the club backing down. Indeed it is not a softening of their approach as the club's ''collective revulsion'' of Tevez's actions remains in place, as it has done fr the start.

City stopped short of considering a gross misconduct charge which would hv given them the option of sacking the player & cancelling his £250,000-a-week contract - an option highly unlikely anyway as it would hv resulted in more legal action 4 compensation.

Tevez is expected 2 immediately appeal against any action & if he is unsuccessful in having his case heard by the club's board, will seek a hearing with the Premier League tat could linger on until the New Year, when City would be in a position 2 sell him with the transfer window open.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/972733/mark-hughes-hits-out-at-'autocratic'-man-city-boss-roberto-mancini?cc=4716

Hughes critical of 'autocratic' Mancini
October 22, 2011

Former ManC boss Mark Hughes has labelled current manager Roberto Mancini as "autocratic" & insists the saga involving Carlos Tevez "would never hv happened" during his tenure.

Hughes was axed by City in December 2009 following the arrival of new club owner Sheikh Mansour. Mancini was then appointed as his successor, & the former boss gave his frank assessment of the Italian ahead of Sunday's top-of-the-table Manchester derby.

"I don't know the guy personally but looking @ [Mancini] fr outside he comes across as autocratic," Hughes told the Daily Telegraph. "It's either his way or the highway.

"I'm not sure he indulges players; tries 2 get 2 know players or understands players, I'm not sure he's tat type of manager. He looks very focused & very driven in terms of wat he gets fr his players. But whether or not they will all love him when he leaves, I would think probably not.

"It's more difficult in the modern age & with modern footballers 2 be absolutely autocratic & not be flexible in terms of how it's going 2 be done & not understand tat your decisions can impact on players, becos they do."

Hughes evidently feels Mancini's dictatorial approach has extended 2ward Carlos Tevez, & has allowed the saga surrounding the striker's future 2 turn unnecessarily nasty.

"I never saw [Tevez] volatile," Hughes said. "I cannot think of an incident with Carlos. It would never hv happened under my watch."

City head into Sunday's clash with their rivals 2 points clear @ the top of the Premier League, but Hughes has warned tat domestic progress will not necessarily result in instant success on the continent.

"In Europe, in the Champions League, I don't think they can get 2 where they 1 2 be either tis season or even the next season becos I think u hv 2 build tat knowledge. But in terms of the Premier League I think it can happen more quickly.

"Whether or not the group as a whole work as diligently & with the same mantra tat ManU hv, I'd maybe suggest not.

"Every ManU player understands wat ManU is abt. The players understand it's a privilege 2 play 4 United. They show the club tat deference.

"I'm not sure the group of players @ City understand tat yet. At United there has been continuity with the manager, with the success they hv had; it gives them a different dynamic," Hughes said.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/973586/tottenham-boss-harry-redknapp-eyes-carlos-tevez-loan?cc=4716

Redknapp still keen on Tevez
October 23, 2011

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp says he would not hesitate 2 sign ManC's Carlos Tevez if the club r willing 2 part with the wantaway striker.

Tevez has repeatedly insisted he is keen 2 leave Manchester citing family reasons, & appears frozen out of City boss Roberto Mancini's plans due 2 his conduct on the substitute's bench during last month's Champions League defeat @ Bayern Munich.

With an investigation ongoing into his alleged misdemeanour, Tevez is unlikely 2 see any 1st-team action @ City in the foreseeable future, & Redknapp would not hesitate 2 bring the Argentinian 2 White Hart Lane on a loan deal.

"I would take him if he were available 4 sure, warts & all. Who wouldn't?" Redknapp is quoted as saying in the English press.

"If ManC 1 2 let me hv him on loan & massively subsidise it, I'll take him 2morrow. Say wat you like, but he's a world-class player & you can't say he doesn't work his socks off when he plays. When he gets on the field he's a right handful.

"It's all right people refusing 2 condone his behaviour but, 2 be honest, I'm only interested in wat he does when he plays. And world-class players r in short supply."

Meanwhile, City r preparing 2 take on rivals United in a top-of-the-table Manchester derby @ Old Trafford on Sunday.


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/972521/yaya-toure-looking-to-make-history?cc=4716

Toure looking to make history
October 22, 2011

Since the very beginning, footballers hv been taking it 1 game @ a time. Yaya Toure is the exception, however, ignoring the cliché & fixing his gaze on the distant future. The Ivorian is looking 2 tis lifetime & beyond. ManC is his legacy project.

"If we win the Premier League tis year, all the fans will go crazy abt it," he said. "You can make history & 4 the rest of your life or aft you die, ppl will continue 2 talk abt wat u did 4 the club. Tat's wat I 1."

During his 15 months in Manchester, Toure has ended City's 35-year trophy drought, his winner in May's FA Cup final finally reacquainting them with silverware. But 2011 is also notable 4 the passing of Mike Doyle & Neil Young, two stalwarts of the last sky blue side 2 be crowned England's best. They r remembered @ the Etihad Stadium, just as Toure hopes he will be.

The contrast is supplied by his former employers. @ Barcelona, the 28-year-old was another cog in the wheel - albeit 1 part of a particularly stylish & successful vehicle. @ City, he hopes he can be the catalyst 4 change, driving them 4wards.

"That's why I came 2 ManC," he added, "becos last year when we won the FA Cup, all the ppl around the club were happy. It is incredible. It's not like Barcelona: when they win the league, it is normal."

The cynical interpretation is tat signing 4 City is prompted more by avarice than ambition, especially with Toure reported 2 hv landed himself a £220,000-a-week deal. But 4 Yaya, the opportunity 2 play with brother Kolo was a factor &, he insists, others share his desire 2 make an indelible mark.

"The 1st time I met Samir Nasri or David Silva or Sergio Aguero they said 2 me, 'Yaya, we hv come here 2 make history' & we r excited 2 be part of tis history," he explained. "When u go 2 [Real] Madrid or Barcelona, u don't go there 2 make history becos they already hv it, but tis is special. In 2011, u hv a big chance 2 make history 4 1 club."

The aim, he says, is 2 build a dynasty. Tat requires stability & continuity. In tat respect, the rivals r the role model, with ManU, like Barcelona, the clubs Toure hopes 2 emulate. It is why he believes Roberto Mancini's contract, which expires in 2013, should be extended.

"I think it is important 2 hv stability becos he is doing a fantastic job," he said. "The way Barcelona play, they play like tat a long time. At ManC we try 2 find a way. Tat's why it's very important when your manager does well tat u hv 2 keep him 4 a long time, 2 let him make his mark on the club, becos the 1st team, the 2nd team, the 3rd team, they hv 2 all play the same way. That's the way [Sir Alex] Ferguson did it & tat's the way Barcelona did it. United with Ferguson is a great example, becos Ferguson makes tis club."

Making ManC, 2 borrow Toure's phrase, involves many aspects. High-profile & expensive recruitment is 1, but so is forging a team & developing a winning habit. It is why Tuesday's Champions League victory over Villarreal, when Aguero scored the decisive goal in the dying seconds of injury time, offered him so much encouragement. "We need tis kind of spirit & mentality," he said. "It was amazing.''

Another aspect is the added sense of adventure City hv displayed tis season. Solidity was prioritised in Mancini's 1st full year in charge but progress, along with the signings of Nasri & Aguero, has enabled them 2 play with greater flair. "I think now the club has more confidence & we play such fantastic attacking football tat everyone enjoys it," Toure added.

The artist, the man his manager believes is 1 of the world's finest footballers, is Silva & Toure concurs with Mancini's appraisal of the Spaniard. "If I m not wrong, Barcelona wanted 2 sign him [b4 he came 2 City]," he said. "I don't know why they didn't becos Silva is a fantastic player." Praise is swiftly followed by a message 2 his old club. "And I don't 1 him 2 leave 2 go 2 Barcelona. He has 2 stay with us becos he is an amazing player."

Indeed, Toure's compliments 4 his colleagues r a constant with some of the less heralded members of the City squad, such as James Milner, regularly invoked. They r the men Toure hopes will be his history-makers, delivering immortality in East Manchester. The 6' 3'' midfielder speaks fr a towering height, with his club top of the table.

"If we stay there, it will be fantastic," he said. "We need 2 win the Premier League & everything will come."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/972839/unhappy-carlos-tevez-writes-letter-to-manchester-city?cc=4716

Unhappy Tevez writes letter
October 22, 2011

Carlos Tevez's lawyers hv written a letter 2 ManC alleging the club hv "breached the player's human rights", ESPNsoccernet understands.

At a disciplinary hearing on Friday, Tevez was charged with failing 2 warm-up in September's 2-0 Champions League loss against Bayern Munich, although a final decision over his punishment has been delayed by City.

The player & his representatives r unhappy with his damaged reputation following his confrontation with manager Roberto Mancini, & hv tis week issued a letter 2 City.

City's decision over Tevez's future is unlikely 2 be swayed by the contents of the letter, which has been described as a "rant" by the club, as the side's hierarchy remain fully behind Mancini, who said post the defeat in Munich tat the 4ward would never play again under his stewardship.

The Argentina international was suspended for 2 weeks by the club in the aftermath of the alleged incident @ the Allianz Arena, & a further 6-week ban with a £1.5 million fine looks set 2 be announced on Monday, subject 2 approval fr the Professional Footballers' Association.

It is expected Tevez will appeal the punishment, &, should he fail, the attacker is prepared 2 take the case all the way 2 a Premier League hearing, potentially dragging out a conclusion until the end of the year.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=317936&cc=4716

City hammer ten-man United

Controversial striker Mario Balotelli provided the spark as ManC stormed Old Trafford 2 humiliate rivals ManU on Sunday afternoon.

Hours aft more headlines abt his off-field antics following a fire @ his home, Balotelli struck twice 2 set up a convincing win 4 the Premier League leaders over 10-man United.

Balotelli also won the free-kick which led 2 a straight red card 4 United defender Jonny Evans b4 Edin Dzeko struck twice & Sergio Aguero & David Silva added 2 the tally.

United claimed a consolation with a fine goal fr Darren Fletcher 10 mins fr time but they were ran ragged in the dying moments as City struck 3 times aft the 88th minute.

City's stunning victory not only lifted them 5 points clear of United & underlined their title credentials but shattered a host of statistics.

In recording only their 2nd win @ Old Trafford since 1974, City inflicted United's 1st home defeat since April 2010 & ended their run of 19 consecutive home league wins.

It left the watching Glazers, United's owners, hoping 4 better luck as they flew 2 Wembley by private helicopter 2 watch their other team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, in the NFL tonight.

Balotelli had returned 2 the side aft suspension in midweek as 1 of 6 changes.

United showed similar rotation fr their Champions League win over Otelul Galati with fit-again defender Rio Ferdinand among those 2 come in while Phil Jones & Nemanja Vidic dropped out.

It was the hosts who made the early running with Ashley Young twice testing Micah Richards down the left, winning a free-kick & a corner.

United threatened again when Young bent in another free-kick but Balotelli was back 2 head clear.

Wayne Rooney went down in the box under a challenge fr Vincent Kompany but referee Mark Clattenburg saw nothing untoward.

Despite their quieter start, it was City who took the lead aft 22 mins thru Balotelli.

Silva fed Milner & the midfielder pulled the ball back 4 Balotelli 2 place a low, 1st-time shot beyond the reach of De Gea fr 18 yards, finding the right corner.

He marked the goal with self-deprecating humour by lifting his shirt 2 reveal a T-shirt saying, "Why Always Me?''.

United responded but Anderson & Rooney both shot straight @ Joe Hart.

United had another good chance when Rooney pulled the ball back fr a Young cross but Evans badly miskicked.

Kompany was booked 4 bringing down Danny Welbeck as United tried 2 launch another counter-attack but City held firm until the break.

United's problems then increased considerably as Evans was sent off within 2 mins of the restart 4 denying Balotelli a goalscoring opportunity.

Balotelli stayed on his feet until crossing the 18-yard line as Evans pulled back his arm but Clattenburg awarded a free-kick outside the area & then showed the defender the red card.

United survived the resulting set-piece & breathed again shortly afterwards when Clattenburg gave nothing aft Richards collided with Anderson & appealed 4 a penalty.

Another chance came as Balotelli picked out Aguero with a deep cross but the Argentinian failed 2 connect with a volley & Richards missed the target.

Young went close as United countered but his mishit 1st shot rebounded off Milner & he was rushed into guiding a 2nd attempt wide.

United applied more pressure with Rooney shooting @ Hart again but City made their numerical superiority count with a well-worked 2nd goal 4 Balotelli just b4 the hour.

Silva caught the home defence with a brilliant ball 4 Milner inside the area & Balotelli arrived unmarked 2 turn in his cross 4 a 6th goal in 5 games.

Chris Smalling then made a vital interception in front of goal as Balotelli threatened 2 grab a hat-trick.

City were in complete control & claimed a 3rd aft 69 mins as Milner played Richards in2 space on the right & he duly squared 4 Aguero 2 slide home fr 6 yards.

Roberto Mancini decided 2 take off Balotelli with 20 mins remaining & he left the field quietly 2 take the congratulations of his team-mates on the bench.

His replacement Dzeko almost scored a 4th City goal within moments of entering the field with a low shot which rolled just wide.

Dzeko had another chance as United were caught out again but De Gea produced a fine save.

United clawed 1 back as Fletcher curled in a fine effort fr long distance but City upped the tempo with 3 more in the closing minutes.

Joleon Lescott was free 2 cross @ the back post as a free-kick was flicked on & the ball rebounded in off Dzeko.

Silva then broke clear 2 slide the ball under De Gea b4 the Spaniard released Dzeko 2 complete the rout.

[lacoruna69]

You either hate him or love him......:D

http://ts4.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=1345915135327&id=2f0d70fdae3e92a95dcdaf6a1c53ab7b

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/974759/manchester-city-fine-carlos-tevez-four-weeks'-wages?cc=4716

Tevez fined four weeks' wages
October 25, 2011

ManC hv upheld a misconduct charge against Carlos Tevez & the striker is 2 be fined 4 weeks' wages.

City held an internal investigation in2 Tevez's actions aft manager Roberto Mancini accused him of refusing 2 enter the field as a substitute during the 2-0 defeat @ Bayern Munich @ the end of September.

Following a disciplinary hearing, Tevez was found guilty of 5 breaches of his contract & has been handed a fine, which must be ratified by the Professional Footballers' Association, as well as issued with a written warning as 2 his future conduct. He was also issued with a 2-week suspension, though tat is deemed 2 hv been served already.

The club listed the breaches of conduct as follows: "1. An obligation 2 participate in any matches in which the player is selected 2 play 4 the club when directed by a club official.

"2. An obligation 2 undertake such other duties & 2 participate in such other activities as r consistent with the performance of the player's duties & as r reasonably required of him.

"3. An obligation 2 comply with & act in accordance with all lawful instructions of any authorised official of the club.

"4. An obligation 2 observe the statutes & regulations of FIFA & UEFA, the FA Rules, the League Rules, the Code of Practice & the club rules, including but not limited 2 breach of Rule E3(1) of the FA Rules (obligation on the player all times 2 act in the best interests of the game & not act in any manner which is improper or which brings the game in2 disrepute).

"5. An obligation not 2 knowingly or recklessly do anything or omit 2 do anything which is likely 2 bring the club or the game of football in2 disrepute or cause the player or the club 2 be in breach of the Rules (as defined in the contract) or cause damage 2 the club."

Tevez has the right 2 appeal 2 the club's board within 14 days of the decision.



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/974519/corinthians-won't-pay-'crazy'-carlos-tevez-fee?cc=4716

Corinthians won't pay 'crazy' Tevez fee
October 25, 2011

Corinthians have warned ManC they will not pay a "crazy" fee 4 unsettled striker Carlos Tevez.

Tevez's former club Corinthians failed in a bid 2 land the Argentina international in the summer, but could renew their interest when the winter transfer window opens.

The forward's future @ the Etihad Stadium is the subject of conjecture aft he was accused of refusing 2 warm-up during City's 2-0 Champions League loss at Bayern Munich.

It is expected he will be sold in January, & Corinthians hv been mentioned as potential suitors. But the Brazilian club r wary of the Argentine disrupting the spirit in their dressing room.

The club's marketing vice-president, Luis Rosemberg is quoted by TalkSPORT as saying: "I do not know if the trainer 1s Tevez & wat he thinks abt the semi-crazy behaviour tat he has shown.

"I do not know if the coach 1s 2 disturb the harmony tat we hv got. If it was 4 a reasonable fee than yes, we would do it. But we cannot pay a crazy figure 2 sign him. The names do not matter [2 the coach], he 1s men."

[lacoruna69]

Is he the unsung hero on nullifying the Man U attack?

http://ts2.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=1344006137305&id=37fea9fc61885519f186bc16007573d2

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/974967/carlos-tevez-to-sue-manchester-city-boss-roberto-mancini---report?cc=4716

Tevez to sue Mancini - report
October 26, 2011

Disgruntled ManC striker Carlos Tevez is considering suing manager Roberto Mancini 4 defamation of character, according 2 a report fr the BBC.

Tevez may investigate legal action aft the Argentine was effectively found guilty by City of refusing 2 play in a Champions League game against Bayern Munich & fined 4 weeks' wages. The striker has 14 days 2 appeal the decision, & should any such internal action fail, Tevez is expected 2 take the matter further.

It is understood Tevez & his advisors feel the 5 reasons given by the club 4 upholding the charge of misconduct r false. In such a circumstance, Mancini's comments immediately following the game stating the striker refused 2 take 2 the pitch could be interpreted as defamation.

Meanwhile, ManC hv revealed they r in no hurry 2 offload Tevez despite the ongoing problems with the player. The club valued the 27-year-old, their top scorer & inspiration during last season's FA Cup-winning campaign, @ more than £40 million earlier tis year.

A club spokesman said: "I can confirm tat following a call betw Roberto & the chairman [Khaldoon Al Mubarak] 2day, the club's formal position is tat no offer 4 Carlos Tevez will be considered unless it reflects true market value."

It is believed tat the club will allow Mancini 2 decide wat happens 2 Tevez over the remainder of his contract, which expires in 2014. The striker has been training alone since returning fr suspension almost a fortnight ago & has not played since September 21.



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/974958/man-city-allay-fears-over-owen-hargreaves-absence?cc=4716

City allay fears over Hargreaves
October 25, 2011

ManC hv moved 2 allay fears Owen Hargreaves has suffered anything other than a very minor setback in his bid 2 resurrect his career.

Hargreaves has been ruled out of the Carling Cup 4th-round tie @ Wolves aft a kick in the calf. The match would otherwise hv provided the 30-year-old with an excellent opportunity 2 get some competitive football under his belt as he looks 2 establish himself @ City.

The midfielder, who made a goalscoring debut 4 City in their 3rd-round win over Birmingham, was released by ManU in the summer aft 3 injury-ravaged seasons.

1st-team coach David Platt said: ''There is no worry abt it. He has got a little niggle tat becos it is Owen Hargreaves we r talking abt it. It is nothing much, it is just a kick in the calf. We hv had it scanned & there is no pull or anything.

''He has not broken down. If he had broken down we would be talking abt him being out for 3 or 4 weeks but tat is not the case.''

Hargreaves played 57 mins against Birmingham 5 weeks ago but his only appearance since was as a late substitute in the 4-1 Barclays Premier League win over Aston Villa on October 15.

He was thought 2 be in contention 4 a place on the bench 4 Sunday's derby win over his former club but was not named in the squad.

Hargreaves was hampered by problems in both knees during his time @ United b4 he suffered a hamstring injury early in wat proved 2 be his final appearance 4 that club last November. Yet while City do not 1 2 risk him @ Molineux, they insist tat is not becos they need 2 treat him more carefully than any other player.

Platt said: ''He is there or thereabouts but the fact of the matter is he hasn't trained for 3 or 4 days. 2 go in & do 1 light training session & then go in2 it, you wouldn't do with any player. Tat has nothing 2 do with whether it is Owen or not.

''Since we came back fr the international break, Owen Hargreaves has been 1 of the 24-25 players available 4 selection. He could well hv been in the squad 4 the derby. He could hv been in the stand, on the bench or he could hv played.

''We don't look @ him any more as a separate case, whereas leading up 2 the international break we were still in his 'pre-season' preparation. We r over tat. He comes in2 the equation like any other player comes in2 it now.

''He came in on September 1 & we're now @ the end of October. Tat's 7 weeks & he's been off the training pitch 5 days. Rather than talking abt wat has happened in the last 3 years, he is now a ManC player & we should look @ it fr when he has been @ ManC.''

[Shuang_Jie_Gun]

You either hate him or love him......:D

http://ts4.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=1345915135327&id=2f0d70fdae3e92a95dcdaf6a1c53ab7b

i am a man u fan but i have to say man city played really well last sunday.

[screamer]

Is he the unsung hero on nullifying the Man U attack?

http://ts2.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=1344006137305&id=37fea9fc61885519f186bc16007573d2

the other side of the city have Cantona....
we now have a few player who is able to turn thing around.

Man City era!!! ... will last till the owner dun inject in anymore $$$.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/976052/mancini:-manchester-united-hammering-means-nothing?cc=4716

Mancini: Utd win means nothing
October 28, 2011

ManC manager Roberto Mancini has enjoyed the afterglow of his team's stunning derby triumph but now claims it counts 4 little.

City emphatically underlined their title credentials as they thrashed champions ManU 6-1 @ Old Trafford 2 move 5 points clear @ the top of the Premier League. Yet while City supporters may continue 2 revel in their biggest derby win since 1926, Mancini quickly wants 2 turn back 2 the bigger picture.

The Italian said: "The feeling is good but the game is in the past now, it is history, finished. We hv 2 focus on Wolves. 4 me it is better 2 win 6 derbies 1-0 than one 6-1.

"I enjoy it always, being ManC manager. I think we r working very well but if we 1 2 become a top team 4 the next 20 years we cannot be happy only becos we beat United 6-1. It is not important.

"The supporters r happy, very happy, but 4 us we play every 3 days & work every day. We know our job & we understand we should stay with our feet on the floor.''

City, who hv dropped just 2 points & scored 33 goals in their opening 9 games of the season, hv now been installed as title favourites.

"Tat is not important,'' added Mancini. "I think there r 4 or 5 teams tat can win the title. At tis moment we r top but the table can change every game. The season is long. Fr aft the next international break we play every 3 days for 6 months. It will be very difficult.''

Plaudits hv poured in 4 City's fine football tis season with some comparisons drawn with the 'Invincibles' Arsenal side which won the Premier League unbeaten in 2004. Mancini believes it is going 2 far 2 speculate abt whether his team could repeat the feat of Arsene Wenger's Thierry Henry-inspired Gunners.

Mancini said: "I remember tat team was very strong, it was an incredible team. I don't think tat 4 us tis year. I think we need 2 improve. In tis moment we r in form, our feeling is good & it is important 2 continue 2 hv focus on every game.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/975839/sir-alex-ferguson:-fines-rule-'a-bit-crazy'-in-tevez-case?cc=4716

Fergie: Fines rule 'a bit crazy'
October 28, 2011

SAF has described the rule which forced ManC 2 halve the fine they handed 2 Carlos Tevez as "a bit crazy''.

The ManU manager admits, though, the rules agreed by the Premier League, FA & PFA state tat clubs could only fine players 2 weeks' wages - & tat there was nothing City could do abt it.

City had 2 cut Tevez's fine to 2 weeks' wages aft the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) refused 2 support a 4-week penalty 4 the striker refusing 2 play.

The club hv since claimed the PFA hv a "conflict of interest'' in both representing Tevez & then being in a position 2 rule on the sanction he faces.

Ferguson said on Friday: "I think it is a bit strange of course but the regulations r there. It is a fact tat the maximum fine you can give a player is 2 weeks' [wages].

"It seems a bit crazy in tat particular situation but it's there & there's nothing you can do abt it.''

The Argentina striker was found guilty of 5 breaches of contract by City, including a refusal 2 play.

The PFA stated they believe Tevez "never refused 2 play 4 the club'' & tat there was "no justification 4 a fine other than up 2 the prescribed sanction of 2 weeks' wages agreed by the FA, the Premier League & PFA''.

2 weeks' wages in Tevez's case is thought 2 be around £400,000.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/976212/roberto-mancini-in-line-for-bumper-new-man-city-contract?cc=4716

Mancini in line for new contract
October 29, 2011

Roberto Mancini has stated his belief tat ManC's owners should be delighted with his work amid reports tat the Italian is abt 2 receive a bumper new contract.

Mancini has led City 2 Champions League football & FA Cup success during his time @ the club, ending a 35-year trophy drought. Now he has City sitting 5 points clear @ the top of the Premier League following their 6-1 humbling of neighbours United.

Reports in the Sun claim Mancini will be handed a new 4-year deal, raising his yearly salary fr £3.5 million to £5.5 million. In the Italian's eyes, Sheikh Mansour's Abu Dhabi United Group could never hv expected 4 the club 2 improve so quickly.

"I think they should be very happy becos in football it is very difficult 2 get 2 the top in a short time like us," Mancini said, having spoken 2 chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak earlier tis week. "But now it is important 2 stay there 4 a long time. Aft the FA Cup I thought tis year we could do another step, fight with United & Chelsea 4 the top of the league. At the moment I think we started very well.''

There can arguably be no greater sign of Mancini's success than the current frustration of United's fans, whom the City boss revealed earlier tis week often tell him 2 "f*** off". However, there remains the saga of Carlos Tevez, who has been forced 2 train with the club's youth team aft a fallout with Mancini.

Tevez was City's star man last season, but aft refusing 2 obey manager's orders he was recently found guilty of 5 breaches of his contract & fined 4 weeks' wages - later reduced to 2. Mancini is still forbidden fr discussing the Argentinean in press conferences, but he did say the sulky 4ward was "not important".

"I think we r in the best moment in our history & I think our focus is only on the games & training,'' said Mancini. "The other situations r not important.''

Of the fine, Mancini said: "Tis is not my problem. 4 me it is not important - 2 weeks, 4 weeks.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/974481/richard-jolly:-city-march-continues?cc=4716

City continue to strike gold
October 29, 2011

As a statement of the obvious, it is undeniable. As an indication of how far ManC hv come, however, it was instructive. "It is impossible 2 always score 4, 5 or 6 goals," Roberto Mancini said. Such r the expectations around the Etihad Stadium now tat the reminder may hv been necessary. If u manage a half-dozen against ManU, the sky appears the limit when the Blue Moon rises so high on the Premier League skyline.

But, 4 the 1st time in 5 weeks, City managed fewer than 4 goals in a domestic game. Their average is reduced 2 a mere 3.6 per league match, with the trio managed by Edin Dzeko, Aleksandar Kolarov & Adam Johnson taking their tally to 36. It has almost become passé 4 their fans 2 chorus "boring, boring City", but the transformation in2 adventurers continues. Last season, besides Carlos Tevez's considerable contribution, the rest of the squad combined for 40; now, albeit with some significant additions, they hv almost surpassed tat.

The facts alone illustrate why the Argentine has become a sideshow. Mancini is the puritan who is beginning 2 appeal to the purists. Consider City's clinching goal against Wolves: Mario Balotelli robbed Roger Johnson, advanced 50 yards &, with the awareness he has not always shown, waited 4 team-mates 2 join him. Yaya Toure & then Adam Johnson did, the ball finding its way 2 each in turn b4 the winger curled an inch-perfect shot in2 the far corner of Wayne Hennessey's net. "A fabulous finish," said Wolves boss Mick McCarthy - a manager more inclined 2 growl than purr sounding unusually awestruck. "There lies the difference."

It can lie, 2, in the unassuming excellence of David Silva. In a 1st half notable 4 Hennessey's saves, 1 was required becos of the 360-degree vision of the Spaniard who was aware of Dzeko behind him when facing Sergio Aguero. Aft a spin & pass of typical class, the Bosnian was sent clear on goal. Hennessey denied him, as he had thwarted Samir Nasri & Aguero. Wolves' defiance was inspired by the goalkeeper but epitomised by Richard Stearman, who flung himself in2 the path of Silva's goal-bound volley.

Rather than a remarkable rearguard action, however, it preceded the rather more familiar feeling of defeat 4 Wolves. Hennessey was acquainted with both halves of the goalkeeper's lot in life: rescue act suddenly losing his reliability. Rather than clearing quickly, he allowed Aguero 2 close him down. The ball rebounded off the Argentine & Dzeko duly slotted it in2 the net.

"Wayne was fabulous," said McCarthy. "There r no recriminations fr me but it's another mistake tat's let the opposition get the lead." It was 1 they would not relinquish as Kolarov extended the advantage aft Silva's shot had been parried.

Goals hv become a constant when City play. The regular complaint fr Mancini is tat they come @ both ends. Wolves came back in2 the game with a strike tat had a familiarity 4 their hosts. As in concessions against Bayern Munich & Villarreal, Joe Hart only succeeded in parrying the ball in2 the path of an opponent. It is an unfortunate trend tat hints @ a technical failing. In the Champions League games, it cost City a goal, here, the immediate consequence was the loss of a man. Kevin Doyle probably would hv scored, but Vincent Kompany dragged him down. Exit the sent-off skipper, & 4 naught, as Stephen Hunt drilled in the penalty, although it was not much longer b4 Adam Johnson added City's 3rd & made the game safe.

Aft the game, Mancini was reluctant 2 discuss the referee although, as he accepted, Stuart Attwell was correct 2 dismiss Kompany. They go 2 QPR next week without their finest defender, but with a surfeit of options elsewhere. 6 days aft suggesting Balotelli was 1 of the world's top 5 players, he reverted 2 being City's 3rd-choice 4ward. "I can't play with 3 strikers," Mancini argued. Aft opting 4 1 last season, he has become a convert 2 the cause of a strike duo. The success of tat approach can be judged fr the goalscoring statistics & the sense of normality when City strike 3 times.

"I don't 1 us 2 think every game will be easy," Mancini warned. Wolves ensured tis was not. But 5 points clear & gorging on goals, they r league leaders. And, McCarthy thinks, the team 2 beat. "I would say so, yeah," he added. "They made tat patently obvious last week."

MAN OF THE MATCH:
Samir Nasri. Restored 2 the team aft starting the derby among the replacements, the Frenchman stated his case with an influential performance.

MANCHESTER CITY VERDICT:
They are 2nd-half specialists, scoring 25 of their 36 goals aft the break. It shows their ability 2 capitalise when opponents tire. Without being their finest performance, they still created an abundance of chances. The concern 4 Mancini may be tat Wolves had 2 many of their own, & Nigel de Jong is likely 2 be called upon 4 Wednesday's game in Villarreal. With Balotelli benched, Dzeko continued his recent revival. A 4ward who is either emphatically hot or not, has gone fr 7 goals in 4 games 2 none in 6. Now he has 5 in 3.

WOLVES VERDICT:
Their recent record is unenviable but, coupled with the comeback 2 take a point against Swansea last week, there r reasons 2 be optimistic. They were well organised & spirited & the criticisms voiced @ Molineux 7 days earlier - tat McCarthy does not know wat he's doing - look utterly incorrect. A 4-5-1 system seems 2 suit them best; it helped them secure their Premier League status in each of the last 2 seasons & they look far more solid with an extra man in midfield.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/977966/roberto-mancini-offers-carlos-tevez-chance-to-stay-at-man-city?cc=4716

Mancini offers Tevez olive branch
November 1, 2011

Roberto Mancini has revealed he is ready 2 4give Carlos Tevez & allow him 2 remain @ ManC if he makes an apology.

It has been expected tat Tevez will leave Eastlands in January aft the 4ward was accused of refusing 2 come on as a substitute against Bayern Munich in September.

Various clubs around the globe hv expressed an interest in offering Tevez an escape route, but it appears the Argentina 4ward could yet be allowed 2 remain @ City.

"Everything depends on Carlos," Mancini told Corriere della Sera. "If he apologises 2 the squad & 2 me then everything will be as b4. If he doesn't then Tevez has a value tat every1 knows & something will happen in January.

"He is totally unprepared & being badly advised. I don't 1 it 2 be like tis & I would be the 1st 2 4give him."

Tevez has been reluctant 2 apologise 4 his actions, although his advisor, Kia Joorabchian, has said the player is now happy 2 remain in England aft his family moved over.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/977839/manchester-city-striker-carlos-tevez-happy-to-stay-in-england?cc=4716

Tevez happy to stay in England
November 1, 2011

Carlos Tevez would welcome the chance 2 join another Premier League club, according 2 his advisor.

There appears 2 be little prospect tat Tevez, 27, could remain @ ManC, with the club recently having attempted 2 fine the striker an additional 4 weeks' wages aft a hearing in2 his alleged refusal 2 come on as a substitute against Bayern Munich in September.

Tevez had earlier expressed a desire 2 leave City on the basis tat, having failed 2 learn English or adapt 2 the culture, he wanted 2 move closer 2 home. With his family now having relocated, though, he is seemingly ready 2 join another Premier League side.

"His family r now living in England, so he's quite happy & settled," advisor Kia Joorabchian told the Daily Mirror. "He had some problems abt being away fr them b4, but they r with him now & everything is fine. He'd be happy 2 move 2 another Premier League club."

Championship side West Ham United, who brought Tevez 2 England in 2006, have offered 2 take the striker on loan until the January window but tat move looks doomed 2 failure. "He loves West Ham, but tat's not going 2 happen," Joorabchian said.

As the Professional Footballers' Association refused 2 sanction City's 4-week fine, Joorabchian feels the player has been vindicated in his stance tat he did not refuse 2 play @ Bayern.

"Tis week, the Professional Footballers' Association rejected the claim tat he had refused 2 come on as a substitute," Joorabchian said. "Tat has changed everything & clarified wat actually happened.

"Carlos was desperate 2 play. He loves 2 play the game & always wants 2 play. Having 2 sit on the sidelines is very tough 4 him. It's not easy 4 him @ the moment, but, in the January transfer window, City will 1 2 get him out either on a permanent basis or on loan. We'll hv 2 wait & see wat happens."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/977953/roberto-mancini-hopes-mario-balotelli-stays-at-man-city-for-years?cc=4716

Mancini expects long Balotelli stay
November 1, 2011

Roberto Mancini believes Mario Balotelli is destined 2 return 2 Serie A but says the Italy international should remain @ ManC 4 the foreseeable future.

Balotelli joined City fr Inter Milan in the summer of 2010, but there hv been persistent reports of homesickness & numerous links 2 clubs in Italy.

However, the 4ward has recently suggested he is adapting 2 life in England - "If last year I missed home so much, maybe now I miss it alittle bit less," he said last month - & Mancini hopes he will remain @ Eastlands 4 many years 2 come.

"Sooner or later, Balotelli will go back 2 Italy," he told Corriere della Sera on Tuesday. "Tat is 4 sure. However, it won't happen 4 a few more years & it will do him good 2 remain @ ManC 4 the time being.

"We did receive various offers 4 him fr Italian clubs over the summer, but we don't sell anybody here."

Balotelli could make his Champions League debut 4 City on Wednesday night when they travel 2 Villarreal having completed the suspension he carried over fr last season's Europa League. As a member of the Inter squad crowned champions of Europe in 2010, Mancini feels Balotelli has much 2 offer the side.

"Mario could be an important player 4 us in Europe becos he knows the Champions League," he said. "It's an important competition 4 Mario, becos it's the 1st game back 4 him aft his ban."

He added: "4 the supporters, Mario is an important player, an important guy, & 4 the last 2 months Mario has been more serious. He's trained very well. I hope he can continue like tis but I don't know whether it's possible.

"He scored 2 goals in the derby, he is scoring in every game. As a player he is fantastic & 4 the supporters tat is wat matters."



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/977999/villarreal-boss-juan-carlos-garrido-targets-man-city-upset?cc=4716

Villarreal target City upset
November 1, 2011

Under-pressure Villarreal coach Juan Carlos Garrido believes his inexperienced youngsters can defy the odds & beat ManC on Wednesday.

Villarreal hv endured a miserable start 2 the season compounded by the loss of a host of key players 2 injury. Despite claiming a much-needed & morale-boosting win over Rayo Vallecano @ the weekend, the 'Yellow Submarines' r a disappointing 13th in the Primera Division & without a point in Champions League Group A.

They were unfortunate 2 lose 2 a last-gasp Sergio Aguero goal @ the Etihad Stadium a fortnight ago but hv since lost their most dangerous player tat night, star striker Giuseppe Rossi, 2 long-term injury.

With the likes of Nilmar, Marco Ruben, Marcos Senna, Javier Camunas, Cani & Cristian Zapata also sidelined, Garrido has been forced 2 call up young strikers Joselu & Adolfo Enriquez fr the B/C teams.

Garrido said: "We hv reached the tipping point - we cannot afford 2 hv any more injuries - but it is not new. It has been a problem since the start of the season.

"We hv got 2 believe we can do it & play 2 the maximum. The hope is the young players can prove a revelation @ tis time. We r playing in the Champions League & tis will be a good moment 4 them 2 prove themselves."

Villarreal's win on Saturday was their 1st in 8 games in all competitions & only their 3rd all season. Aft finishing 4th in Spain last season, the campaign so far has been a major disappointment & their task against Premier League leaders City @ El Madrigal would appear a daunting 1.

Yet Garrido is not fazed ahead of the must-win clash & has no intention of sacrificing the competition 2 shore up domestic issues.

The 42-year-old said: "We think the same as always. We r playing a great team in ManC. They r very high in the league, but we will try 2 do our very best.

"It is obvious we hv 2 win. We hv 2 play our own game 100% & look 2 create opportunities. We will hv 11 players on the field & even if we r inexperienced in the front line every1 will play 2 win.

"Always when we play we hv to win. It not a case of choosing betw the 2 leagues. We hv 2 believe in everybody & every game is important."

Villarreal performed creditably in Manchester but the 2-1 loss, aft taking an early lead thru Cani, left them 7 points behind group leaders Bayern Munich.

Garrido added: "Of course we missed a big opportunity last time but with tat result u hv 2 options - u can feel down or you can grow under the situation. Tat is the way 2 go."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/980539/edin-dzeko-hails-qpr-as-best-team-man-city-have-faced?cc=4716

Dzeko hails QPR battlers
November 5, 2011

Edin Dzeko called Queens Park Rangers the "best team we hv played tis season" aft ManC battled 2 a 3-2 win @ Loftus Road 2 restore their 5-point advantage @ the top of the table.

Jay Bothroyd headed QPR in front in the 1st half - the 1st time City hv trailed tis season - & aft goals fr Dzeko & David Silva turned things around, Heidar Helguson brought the hosts level.

Yaya Toure headed in the winner, but City had 2 hang on 4 a nervous final 10 mins.

"It was very tough but @ the end we can be happy," Dzeko said on ESPN. "I must say, they r the best team we hv played against tis season & I 1 2 pay compliments 2 Queens Park Rangers.

"I was very surprised @ how they played, how good they were, esp in the 1st half, & then again in the 2nd half as well aft we scored the 3rd goal. We can be very happy 2 win."

City will now be looking 4ward 2 returning home, having been away fr Manchester since travelling 2 Spain 4 Wednesday's Champions League win over Villarreal.

Manager Roberto Mancini was delighted 2 take the points fr a tough encounter.

"When u play every 3 days, it is impossible, every game can be hard. QPR played very well but in the end it was important tat we won.

"We had some problems with Samir (Nasri) b4 the game - his knee - & we can't take any more risks with him aft so many games so it is better we did not need him becos his knee is not good.

"It was hard in the 2nd half, even though we played better & scored 2 make it 2-1. We had 3 or 4 chances 2 close the game, but when u don't close the game you take a risk becos anything can happen."

Silva's goal was the highlight of an often disjointed City performance, with the Spanish playmaker taking 1 touch 2 escape 3 defenders b4 firing home fr close range.

"David 4 me is 1 of the best players in the world," Mancini said. "But not only him, all the other players - Yaya, Edin, 4 sure.

"It was really important 2 win. In the last 2 weeks we hv played 6 games, which is very, very hard, we hv won always & it is very important 2 go in2 the international break with the 5-point gap."

QPR boss Neil Warnock was hugely disappointed by the loss.

"It is a diabolical result," he said. "Football can be a cruel game sometimes. You do not get wat u deserve. We hv made 3 errors in 90 mins against a side I would regard as the best in the world, & got punished every time.

"The performance probably surprised a few people, but I think we can get even better. I guess u hv 2 take it on the chin. It is results like tat tat make them champions elect."

[screamer]

for the first time.... I am enjoying EPL...

I love to see the table, and see who is sitting on top of the table..
:D

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/983445/warring-carlos-tevez-factions-to-hold-pivotal-talks?cc=4716

Tevez factions to hold pivotal talks
November 13, 2011

Carlos Tevez's football future will be resolved on Monday 1s & 4 all with a summit betw ManC officials & the striker's representatives.

ESPNsoccernet understands tat all the options r open 2 both sides & a decision tat could end the impasse betw club & player will be acquired.

City had ordered their AWOL superstar, who was charged with misconduct & fined 2-weeks' wages following his refusal 2 warm up during a Champions League game against Bayern Munich in September, 2 return to the club on Friday, but extended the deadline until Monday.

Tevez is due 2 return fr his unauthorised family trip 2 Argentina 2 face further disciplinary proceedings, but no 1 is admitting tat he will show up, remain absent until the situation is resolved or whether he has opted 2 never return.

The most logical outcome is 4 Tevez 2 show up & sort out his problems face 2 face with City manager Roberto Mancini. But whether he is present or in his absent, his advisors & City plan 2 talk & thrash out a solution. Both sides r in agreement on 1 major point - the stand-off situation cannot go on any longer with a player valued @ £40 million.

City either must sack him or let him go, possibly on loan until a sale can go thru in the January transfer window. It might all end up with Tevez back in the City team eventually.

But Tevez won't put up with being ostracised fr the team by manager Roberto Mancini, who has told him he won't pick him until he apologises, & the player refuses 2 do so.

The whole issue has come 2 a head with the Tevez camp threatening 2 hv his contract cancelled by asking FIFA 2 apply Article 15 of their regulations, which allows a player who has been banished fr the 1st team 2 terminate his contract under 'sporting just cause' if he appears in fewer than 10% of his club's games in a season.

Being left out of the national team is an indication 2 Tevez tat his career is on the slide, & despite much speculation in the media, he will find it tough 2 find a club with his reputation deteriorating along with his fitness levels.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/983502/manchester-city-monitoring-borussia-monchengladbach's-marco-reus?cc=4716

City monitoring Germany winger Reus
November 14, 2011

ManC technical director Mike Rigg has revealed tat the Premier League leaders r keeping tabs on highly-rated Borussia Monchengladbach winger Marco Reus.

Reus, 22, has been in sparkling form 4 the Bundesliga side tis season, scoring 7 goals in 12 games 4 Monchengladbach 2 help them 2 4th place in the table.

His impressive performances hv caught the eye of Germany coach Joachim Low & Reus made his international debut against Turkey last month.

Low is not the only 1 2 hv sat up & taken notice of Reus with a number of Europe's top clubs, including the likes of Arsenal & City, thought 2 be considering making an offer.

And Rigg - head of player recruitment @ Eastlands - has confirmed tat City r monitoring the former Borussia Dortmund youth player, who is believed 2 hv an €18 million buyout clause in his contract which activates next summer.

"I know Marco, becos I like him alot,' Rigg told Bild. "He is 1 of the most talented players u hv in Germany & we hv watched him very often."

Monchengladbach coach Lucien Favre revealed last week tat Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger had been in touch abt Reus, but insisted his star turn was committed 2 staying @ Borussia-Park.

"He needs a basis 2 perfect his game," Favre told Bild. "He has tat here with Borussia & Marco can become more complete here. He knows tat & tat is also wat he 1s."

"Jens Lehmann gave him (Wenger) a tip 2 watch out 4 Marco & Arsene then called me. I know Arsene very well & I just told him the truth: tat Marco is a very, very interesting player. But I am coach of Monchengladbach & I would like 2 keep hold of him."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/983551/boca-juniors-rule-out-swoop-for-manchester-city's-carlos-tevez?cc=4716

Boca Juniors rule out Tevez swoop
November 14, 2011

Carlos Tevez's ManC future may be in doubt but 1 club who r unlikely 2 offer him a way out r his former side Boca Juniors, aft president Jorge Amor Ameal insisted they cannot afford the £40 million-rated striker.

Tevez's football future is likely 2 be resolved on Monday when the player's representatives & City officials hold crunch talks in a bid 2 end the ongoing saga, which began when he refused 2 warm-up during a Champions League clash against Bayern Munich in September.

The Argentina striker returned 2 his homeland last week, prompting fresh reports Boca were planning 2 offer Tevez a route out of City & back 2 the club where he started his career & played 4 3 years b4 joining Corinthians in 2004.

But while Ameal admits the club hv had contact with the 27-year-old, he says there is no chance they will be able 2 match his valuation.

"Carlos is deservedly a very important figure here," Ameal told local radio. "But fr the economic point it is impossible. I did talk 2 him, & I lent him our support."

City had ordered their AWOL star, who has not played 4 City since the incident @ the Allianz Arena, 2 return 2 the club on Friday, but extended the deadline until Monday, when a fresh disciplinary meeting will be held 2 determine whether the player has a future at Eastlands.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/983520/claudio-ranieri-would-welcome-mario-balotelli-back-at-inter-milan?cc=4716

Ranieri would welcome Balotelli return
November 14, 2011

Inter Milan coach Claudio Ranieri says he would welcome Mario Balotelli back 2 the San Siro "with open arms", describing the ManC 4ward as a "formidable talent".

Balotelli, 21, left Inter last summer 2 move 2 Eastlands, where he has become a firm favourite of fans & the press thanks 2 his entertaining blend of raw talent & eccentricty.

The City 4ward scored his 1st goal 4 Italy on his 6th appearance on Friday, as well as creating the 2nd 4 Giampaolo Pazzini in the Azzurri's 2-0 friendly win over Poland.

That noteworthy showing, coupled with a string of fine performances 4 Premier League leaders City tis season, has made Balotelli 1 of the most talked abt players in Europe @ present, with reports in the Italian press regularly suggesting tat a number of the country's biggest clubs - including both Inter & AC Milan - r interested in offering him a return 2 Serie A.

Balotelli insisted last week tat he has no desire 2 move back 2 Italy, though he did say that he "could return 2 Inter 1 day if certain things were in place".

And Ranieri, who replaced much-maligned former coach Gian Piero Gasperini in the Nerazzurri hotseat last month, would be happy 2 work with Balotelli if he felt the time was right 2 play 4 Inter again.

"I would welcome Balotelli with open arms,'' Ranieri said in an interview with Corriere dello Sport. "He is a formidable talent ... He can become 1 of the best players in the world but it's all down 2 him."

Former AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti believes Balotelli's progress can be attributed 2 City boss Roberto Mancini's handling of him, & congratulated his compatriot on ensuring the flamboyant frontman has "found the right path".

"Balotelli has matured,'' Ancelotti told Gazzetta dello Sport. "Now on the pitch he shows seriousness & gives an added value 2 the national team. Mario has found the right path thanks 2 Mancini.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/983610/roberto-mancini:-fabio-capello's-england-can-win-euro-2012?cc=4716

Mancini: England can win Euro 2012
November 14, 2011

ManC boss Roberto Mancini thinks tat England r good enough 2 win next summer's European Championship, though he still believes Spain is the team 2 beat.

England hv not won a major tournament since the 1966 World Cup, with semi-final appearances @ the 1990 World Cup & Euro '96 the closest they hv come 2 repeating tat international success.

But aft watching Fabio Capello's side record a confidence-boosting victory over reigning world & European champions Spain on Saturday, Mancini has tipped his compatriot 2 mount a serious challenge @ Euro 2012.

"It is a good place 4 England 2 build fr [the victory over Spain]," Mancini said. "They r a good team. In my opinion they can win the European Championship. Why not?

"Capello is a good manager & he has a good team, & he can also put the other young players in. Spain r the best team in Europe & maybe the world, so it is not easy 2 beat them. He (Capello) has another 6 months 2 prepare very well 4 the Euros & I think they hv a chance."

The 2nd legs of the Euro 2012 qualifying play-offs take place on Tuesday night, while the draw 4 the tournament is on December 2.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/985806/premier-league:-leaders-city-dismantle-newcastle?cc=4716

City dismantle Newcastle to go clear
November 19, 2011

ManC came thru another stiff test of their Premier League title credentials on Saturday, inflicting a 1st defeat of the season on Newcastle, but ManU ensured the gap @ the top stayed @ 5 points with an evening victory @ Swansea.

In a match betw the English top flight's only unbeaten sides, City had 2 much class 4 Newcastle, winning comfortably 3-1 @ the Etihad Stadium. Penalties fr Mario Balotelli & Sergio Aguero sandwiched a Micah Richards strike tat capped a man-of-the-match display fr the England hopeful.

Most of the best work was actually done by Newcastle in a well-contested opening 2 the game tat saw Joe Hart produce a superb save 2 deny Demba Ba. However, it was City who led 2-0 @ half-time following 2 Ryan Taylor errors.

1st Balotelli converted with trademark calm fr the spot aft Taylor clearly handled inside the penalty area. Then Richards scored his 1st Premier League goal 4 a year aft he nipped the ball off Taylor's toes 2 cap an excellent individual 45 mins fr the right-back.

Richards was the best player on the pitch & he was involved again 4 City's 3rd, forcing Hatem Ben Arfa 2 concede a penalty, which Aguero despatched with Balotelli off the field. Dan Gosling grabbed a late consolation 4 the Magpies, but City's minds had already turned 2 Napoli in the Champions League.

With the gap @ the top briefly extended to 8 points, ManU needed a response @ Swansea, a ground where no opposition player had scored a league goal tis season. Tat statistic changed aft jz 11 mins as Javier Hernandez opened the scoring en route 2 a 1-0 victory 4 the champions.

SAF restored Ryan Giggs 2 his starting XI 4 the trip 2 Wales, & the veteran played a big part in the opener, squaring 4 Hernandez 2 tap home. Angel Rangel was @ fault 4 Swansea, passing the ball directly 2 Giggs on the edge of his own box, & he was made 2 pay the ultimate price.

The Swans should hv been level midway thru the 1st half when Scott Sinclair missed an open goal, getting the ball tangled betw his legs 6 yards out. Brendan Rodgers' men arguably deserved 2 find an equaliser, but in a game of few clear-cut chances it was United who came closest 2 a 2nd when Phil Jones hit an upright.

Arsenal's excellent run of results continued @ Carrow Road in Saturday's lunchtime kick-off, but 1s again Robin van Persie had 2 dig his defenders out of trouble as the Dutchman scored twice in a 2-1 victory over Norwich City. Arsene Wenger's side hv now won 7 of their last 8 matches in all competitions, despite a defence tat continues 2 look extremely suspect.

Certainly Per Mertesacker failed 2 cover himself in any glory as he dithered 2 allow Steve Morison the opener, but in 2-goal Van Persie Arsenal hv the most in-form striker in European football.

Mertesacker's soft capitulation took place in the 16th min of a hugely watchable 1st half, choosing not 2 hoof the ball in2 the stands under pressure fr Morison, instead falling 2 the ground as the powerful striker stole the ball & slotted home.

Van Persie & Gervinho then missed golden chances 2 level, but it was no surprise when Theo Walcott's low cross fr the byline was turned home by Van Persie @ close range 4 the equaliser. The winner was then supplied by Alex Song, who robbed Russell Martin of the ball on halfway b4 feeding Van Persie, who dinked over John Ruddy with his right foot.

Steve Kean's future is still hanging on by a thread aft 10-man Blackburn Rovers came fr behind twice 2 draw their relegation 6-pointer with Wigan Athletic 3-3 @ the DW Stadium. In a match betw 2 sides who had taken a combined 11 points fr 22 fixtures tis season, it was Yakubu who rescued Blackburn deep in2 injury-time as Wigan remain rooted 2 the foot of the table.

Rovers only arrived @ the ground 50 mins prior 2 kick-off due 2 traffic congestion, but it was Wigan who were late 2 the party as Blackburn took the lead jz 67 secs aft kick-off. Yakubu was the man 2 pounce 4 his 100th league goal in English football, latching on 2 Steven N'Zonzi's flick-on 2 beat Ali Al-Habsi.

The lead lasted only 5 mins though as Jordi Gomez drove in2 the corner fr outside the box 4 Wigan's leveller, & by half-time Blackburn were behind. Gary Caldwell headed home a simple David Jones corner 2 hand Wigan the lead, but the Blackburn marking - with David Dunn the culprit - left alot 2 be desired.

Dunn's afternoon came 2 an abrupt end seconds aft half-time when he received his 2nd booking, albeit harshly aft he seemed 2 get a bit of the ball. But Kean's men rallied 2 level in controversial circumstances thru Junior Hoilett, who scored aft Yakubu faked 2 take a corner, failing 2 touch it b4 Morten Gamst Pedersen ran with the ball - effectively taking the set-piece 2 himself.

The goal did not look like it would influence the final result as Albert Crusat handed Wigan the lead 2 mins fr time, but Yakubu netted a penalty, awarded 4 a foul on Rovers keeper Paul Robinson, up in the box 4 1 last charge, in 1 of the 8 mins of stoppage time 2 earn Rovers a point.

Bolton Wanderers were unable 2 lift themselves out of the bottom 3 as they slumped 2 a 2-1 defeat against WBA @ the Hawthorns. Goals fr Jerome Thomas & Shane Long leave Owen Coyle's side 2 points fr safety.

The Baggies had striker Long back fr injury 4 the 1st time since he was hammered by Alan Hutton @ Villa Park, but it was Thomas who opened the scoring when rounding Jussi Jaaskelainen aft Zoltan Gera's slide-rule pass. However, within moments the hero turned villain as Thomas slipped in2 Fabrice Muamba inside the area, conceding a penalty tat Ivan Klasnic comfortably converted.

The script was always written 4 Long though, who created & scored a brilliant 2nd 4 West Brom 4 his 4th of the season, lifting them in2 the top half.

Everton capitalised on Bolton Wanderers' loss, coming fr behind 2 beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-1 @ Goodison Park. Starting the day 1 place abv the relegation zone, the Toffees lifted themselves up 2wards mid-table aft Phil Jagielka & Leighton Baines overturned Stephen Hunt's opener.

David Moyes' men fell behind 2 a soft penalty decision, which saw Hunt convert aft Marouane Fellaini tripped David Edwards. Everton were level by the break though, Jagielka converting a sublime free-kick fr Baines tat was just begging 2 be finished. Baines then stepped up 2 notch the winner fr the spot aft a foul on Louis Saha.

Elsewhere on Saturday, Stoke City's poor run continued as they lost 3-2 to QPR @ the Britannia Stadium. Defeat is Stoke's 4th on the bounce in the Premier League.

Jon Walters handed the home side an ideal start with an excellent finish following Peter Crouch's intelligent pass, but Rangers were ahead @ half-time thanks 1stly 2 Heidar Helguson's excellent headed equaliser, & then 2 Luke Young's emphatic finish in2 the roof of the net.

Helguson then capitalised 4 his 2nd when Ryan Shawcross went 2 sleep @ the back post early in the 2nd half, & although the defender quickly made amends 2 reduce the arrears to 3-2, QPR held on.

And Sunderland hv still won only 1 home game tis season aft they could only draw 0-0 with Fulham @ the Stadium of Light. A point moves both sides 2 clear of danger @ the bottom.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=318020&cc=4716

City inflict first loss on Newcastle

There were no chips @ ManC on Saturday afternoon, just another 3 points 4 the Premier League leaders as Newcastle's unbeaten record came 2 an end.

Even City's fans shared the amusement of a club tat jz announced losses of £194.9million being forced 2 announce tat there would be no chips available @ half-time.

The $ has been spent on far more productive items though & 2 of the recent big-$ purchases, Mario Balotelli & Sergio Aguero, both scored fr the spot in betw a rasping finish fr home-grown defender Micah Richards, who had an outstanding afternoon.

It maintained City's 100% home record in front of a stadium record crowd, although Alan Pardew's men could justifiably feel the scoreline did not pay due reward 2 their own efforts, even aft Dan Gosling's consolation.

It was a matter of some satisfaction on Tyneside tat Newcastle should head into tis 3-match sequence which sees meetings with both Manchester clubs followed by an encounter with Chelsea still unbeaten.

Few thought Alan Pardew's men would still be awaiting their 1st loss in a fortnight's time yet the confidence tat has soared with the Magpies made them think anything was possible.

And, if Demba Ba had profited during the visitors' best spell of the opening period, they might well hv headed back 2 the north-east in even more buoyant mood.

Instead, his snap-shot aft being set up by Hatem Ben Arfa was turned away by Joe Hart b4 he glanced a header wide fr Yohan Cabaye's corner.

It was Ben Arfa's 1st Premier League start since he broke his leg in a challenge with Nigel de Jong in the corresponding fixture last season.

The pair hv since made up fr wat Ben Arfa felt was a nasty tackle by De Jong & thankfully there was no hint of a repeat.

It does seem City hv moved 4ward since then both in personnel & a more expansive style.

Yet again, they were the team carrying most of the threat & b4 Newcastle's purple patch, Aguero fizzed a shot over the bar & Tim Krul produced an excellent 1-handed save 2 deny Balotelli's close range header.

The Blues were still searching 4 some kind of inspiration when Taylor made his intervention.

He would be correct in claiming he was within close proximity of Yaya Toure's shot 5 mins b4 the break.

However, referee Chris Foy presumably took the view tat with his arm outstretched, Taylor was asking 4 trouble, which duly came in the form of a penalty when the ball hit him inside the box.

Never 1 2 avoid a bit of drama, Balotelli strode slowly 2 the spot-kick b4 side-footing neatly in2 the bottom corner.

It was the Italian's 9th goal of the season & was celebrated with a folding of the arms & a steely stare.

Taylor's afternoon was soon 2 get worse as on City's next attack he tried 2 control Samir Nasri's thru ball & turn @ the same time.

All the full-back succeeded in doing was allow Richards the chance 2 intervene.

Mystifyingly overlooked by Fabio Capello, the full-back finished smartly & suddenly City were clear.

2 their credit, Newcastle refused 2 let their heads drop.

But the 2nd-half just brought more anguish in their bid 2 drag themselves back in2 the game.

1st Ben Arfa drove a low shot against a post aft he had nipped in 2 rob Vincent Kompany.

Then Fabricio Coloccini belted a volley wide aft being picked out completely unmarked fr Yohan Cabaye's corner.

Finally, Hart denied Guthrie, who has sped in2 the box & gone 4 the far corner fr an acute angle.

Having come thru those trials & tribulations unscathed, it seemed harsh tat City should grab another themselves aft Ben Arfa had sent Richards tumbling in the box.

With Balotelli replaced by David Silva, Aguero took over spot-kick duties & promptly sent Krul the wrong way.

The sight of Aguero & Toure hobbling off b4 the end would be a worry 4 manager Roberto Mancini with Tuesday's must-not-lose Champions League trip 2 Napoli looming.

And the City boss would not be 2 happy tat Gosling's effort 2 mins fr time denied his side a clean sheet.


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/quotes/_/id/318020?cc=4716

Mancini demands improvement

ManC manager Roberto Mancini has warned his players they will hv 2 improve if they r 2 get anything out of Tuesday's Champions League trip 2 Naples.

City take on Napoli, knowing they must win in order 2 seal a place in the knockout phase & avoid a nervous last-day encounter with Bayern Munich.

They warmed up with a decent 3-1 win over Newcastle, which ended the Magpies' unbeaten record & maintained their own advantage @ the top of the Premier League.

However, despite a couple of penalties fr Mario Balotelli & Sergio Aguero either side of a Micah Richards effort, Mancini still found room 4 complaint.

"I know wat we can find more in Naples,'' Mancini said. "Naples tis season r playing very well @ home. If we 1 2 win in Naples, we should play better than we did tis afternoon.''

Still, City came out on top by adding another 3 goals 2 their impressive tally, with Balotelli & Aguero taking their seasonal tallies to 8 & 11 respectively.

It is a measure of Mancini's new-found confidence in Balotelli tat he allowed him 2 take City's 1st penalty, aft Ryan Taylor had handled Yaya Toure's shot.

"With the penalties, Mario is fabulous,'' he said. "It is impossible tat he misses. I don't know why. He shoots very well.

"Mario is a very important player 4 us. He is a great player & is getting better & better. I m trying 2 help him becos I don't 1 him 2 waste his talent & 2 make sure he can become the player he can become. The rest is down 2 him & he is doing very well.''

City r yet to drop a point on home soil tis season &, despite Mancini's concerns, look well placed 2 come thru a difficult week tat concludes with a trip 2 Liverpool next Sunday.

4 Newcastle it was a case of wat might hv been.

Demba Ba's shot was repelled by Joe Hart when the score was still goalless, then Hatem Ben Arfa - making his 1st Premier League start since breaking his leg in a tackle with Nigel de Jong during the corresponding fixture last season - fired against a post just as the visitors looked like they might be able 2 haul themselves back fr 2 goals down.

"It is not a relief, I was frustrated @ the end,'' said Newcastle boss Alan Pardew @ his side's 1st defeat of the season.

"I didn't think the officials had bad games & I hv no complaint with either penalty but it was 1 of those days when nothing seemed 2 go 4 us.

"When u play the top teams, you 1 all your players available & 1 2 play your best team. We didn't hv tat. "ManC r the best side we hv played by some distance.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/987220/mancini-maintains-hope-of-reaching-last-16?cc=4716

Mancini maintains hope
November 22, 2011

ManC manager Roberto Mancini refused 2 give up on his side's Champions League hopes despite a shattering defeat @ Napoli on Tuesday night.

City must now beat Bayern Munich in their final Group A game next month & hope 4 a favour fr winless Villarreal 2 progress 2 the knockout stage aft losing 2-1 @ the San Paolo Stadium.

Highly-rated Uruguay 4ward Edinson Cavani struck both goals 4 the hosts either side of a Mario Balotelli equaliser on another tough European night 4 the Barclays Premier League leaders.

Mancini said: "I m disappointed abt the result & I m sorry 4 the lads. I think we lost undeservedly. We played a very good match & we conceded 2 goals we shouldn't hv done.

"There is nothing 2 explain, we r a strong team & we always play well, we always play 2 win. But occasionally you can lose matches, especially in the Champions League.

"I m not 2 disappointed. We hv still got another match 2 play & if we don't qualify we will play Europa League.

"Our target was 2 go in2 the 2nd stage & @ tis moment we r depending on other teams.

"But in football anything can happen. If Villarreal play a serious match they can get a result. It is important we play our game against Bayern Munich.''

Mancini admitted, however tat the chances of progress were probably a "70% 2 Napoli & 30% 2 us''.

As well as scoring, Balotelli had a number of other chances & was also sick on the field.

Mancini rubbished suggestions the maverick Italian 4ward might hv been ill aft being spotted in a pizzeria in Naples with his gf on the eve of the match.

Mancini said: "He was sick but he didn't hv many problems. He has a small fever, it was nothing serious. He had my permission 2 see his gf 4 half an hour - it was only 2 say hello 2 his gf in a pizzeria. He did not hv a pizza.''

David Silva & Aleksandar Kolarov had good opportunities 4 City in an eventful game but Marek Hamsik also hit the post 4 Napoli, who dominated 4 long spells.

Mancini said: "We knew how Napoli play, they wait behind & counter-attack. We conceded 2 much space 2 them, but I m happy with ball possession & the chances we created.

"I m disappointed abt the result but not abt the performance. I think both teams r excellent teams, they r improving @ the moment. We need 2 accept the result. We made mistakes. When u r against players like Hamsik, (Ezequiel) Lavezzi & Cavani they can put you under pressure.''

Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri refused 2 get carried away with his side's fine result, despite it putting them within touching distance of the last 16.

Mazzarri said: "Let's enjoy tonight. We deserve tis & 1 day we will look back with joy. It is hard 2 play & put such a good side under pressure in the way we did. But let us not 4get we hv not done anything yet. It will not be easy against Villarreal, especially away & knowing we hv 2 win.

"Bayern Munich will also go 2 Manchester & play a match regardless of the fact they hv already qualified, so there is nothing 2 read in2 tat.''

[mazdamx5]

Star studded squad too soon to win anything but give them another season to gel, it will be interesting to see how strong they can be but who knows, they might just win the EPL this season but it is no longer a 2 horses race. The rest of the 4 to 5 clubs behind them are closing in. :)

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/987326/bayern-munich-seeking-manchester-city-scalp?cc=4716

Bayern seeking City scalp
November 23, 2011

Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has warned ManC tat the Bundesliga club will not rest on their laurels when they travel 2 the Etihad Stadium on December 7.

Bayern's 3-1 win over Villarreal on Tuesday night secured top spot in Group A & with it their place in the last 16 of the Champions League.

City, though, suffered a 2-1 loss in Naples, & Napoli now reside in 2nd, so Roberto Mancini's side must triumph in their home meeting with Bayern & hope the Serie A side slip up versus Villarreal 2 reach the knockout phase.

It has been suggested tat Bayern's already assured progression could work in City's favour, but Rummenigge insists his club will be seeking victory when they head 2 Manchester.

He said: "We r still going 2 try & win in Manchester. 1st of all, there r points 4 the 5-year ranking @ stake, & then there r €800,000 to the winner. We r not going 2 give anything away.

"Aft winning such a tough group, all u can do is pay a compliment 2 the team & the coach. The team did wat we expected in tat they won again."

Franck Ribery was Bayern's match-winner with 2 goals against Villarreal &, aft missing out on the final in 2010 due 2 suspension, he is hoping 2 make up 4 tat next May.

He said: "I hope tat we can play in the final in Munich. Tat would be a dream. We just hv 2 keep our calm & keep playing so well & not hv any fear."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/987744/phil-jones:-man-city-could-feel-the-pressure?cc=4716

Jones: City could feel the pressure
November 24, 2011

ManU utility man Phil Jones believes title rivals ManC could feel the pace as they enter a crucial stage of the season.

Having lost 2-1 @ Napoli on Tuesday night, a result which leaves them on the brink of Champions League elimination, City hv stuttered in their 1st test of a challenging few weeks.

On Sunday, they travel 2 Anfield 2 take on Liverpool & face a trip 2 Arsenal in the Carling Cup quarter-finals 2 days later. Following a home game with Norwich next weekend they entertain Bayern Munich in the Champions League - a game they must win & hope Villarreal get something against Napoli.

Stamford Bridge & a clash with Chelsea awaits City on Monday, December 12. A 2nd game against Arsenal, in the Premier League @ Eastlands, is up on December 18.

"City hv done fantastically tis season,'' Jones said. "I m not taking anything away fr them. But they do hv some tough games coming up.

"I don't care how good u r, teams can be put under pressure. Tis is a difficult league 2 be in. It would be nice 2 reach top spot by Christmas. But it is not essential. Don't be writing us off if we r not there by January.''

It was Jones' own goal which gave Benfica an early lead in a game which United drew 2-2 @ Old Trafford on Tuesday. But the former Blackburn man is putting tat 2 the back of his mind.

"It happens,'' Jones said. "Own goals happen 2 the best of players. It is just 1 of those situations where the ball ends up in the back of the net.

"What can u do? It is an unfortunate reaction & the ball has ended up in the back of the net. I m not going 2 let my head drop. You win some, you lose some & then u get on with it. Apart fr tat I thought I played reasonably well.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/987983/no-cut-price-deal-for-carlos-tevez?cc=4716

No cut-price deal for Tevez
November 25, 2011

ManC hv told ESPNsoccernet tat they will not consider any offers below 'market value', including a loan deal, 4 want-away striker Carlos Tevez.

Tevez has recently been linked with a move 2 Italy, with AC Milan believed 2 be readying an offer, & the Argentine's advisor Kia Joorabchian is currently having talks in Milan over a possible January move.

However, a source revealed tat the 2 clubs r yet 2 talk directly, while City hv made it clear tat their stance hasn't changed fr a year ago - in tat a loan deal won't be acceptable, nor would they consider any cut price deal.

An insider told ESPNsoccernet tat the club "won't take the hit becos of his behaviour" & tat they 1 "the fair market value" 4 Tevez, which is believed 2 be around £25 million.

Tevez is still in Argentina having flown back 2 Buenos Aires on November 8 without the club's permission. He is still defying their orders 2 return & face disciplinary proceedings, while City r considering legal action, but will wait until the situation is resolved until they make a decision over how 2 deal with him.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/988176/roberto-mancini:-man-city-are-not-good-enough-to-win-ucl?cc=4716

Mancini plays down UCL hopes
November 25, 2011

Roberto Mancini will not give up on ManC's Champions League challenge but claims they r not good enough 2 win the competition.

Despite huge investment in2 their squad, the Premier League leaders now face an uphill task 2 reach the knockout stage of Europe's premier club competition aft a shattering defeat @ Napoli on Tuesday.

Mancini's side must now beat Bayern Munich in their final Group A fixture & hope already-eliminated Villarreal can claim their 1st points of the competition against Napoli 2 progress.

Mancini said: ''We hope we can beat Bayern Munich & Napoli can lose a point @ Villarreal but I think we should be realistic. I don't think we hv a team 2 win the Champions League becos Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, (AC) Milan r maybe better & they hv more experience than us in the Champions League.''

City will drop in2 the Europa League if results go against them in the last round of group games on December 7.

Mancini is philosophical abt tat prospect & has dismissed suggestions the 2nd-tier competition could be a hindrance 2 his side's domestic title bid.

The Italian maintains he was not disappointed with his side's performance @ the Stadio San Paolo earlier tis week, just the result.

He said: ''I hope we can stay in the Champions League but if we go in2 the Europa League we will try to win it. It is not like the Champions League but 4 us it is an important trophy.

''I hope we can stay, becos aft the Champions League (group stage) it is strange. If you go in2 the 2nd stage maybe you can meet APOEL Nicosia or Bayer Leverkusen & you can go thru - but I don't know wat can happen. We did everything & I think we did a good game.''


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/988190/napoli-striker-edinson-cavani-plays-down-manchester-city-link?cc=4716

Cavani cools City talk
November 25, 2011

ManC target Edinson Cavani has cooled talk of a move 2 the Etihad Stadium, the Uruguay striker insisting he is happy @ Napoli, 4 now.

City r tracking the 24-year-old, who is idolised by the San Paolo faithful, as r Chelsea & French giants PSG. However, Cavani says he has yet 2 fulfil all his goals @ Napoli, & he 1s 2 bring them success b4 making a possible move 2 the Premier League or elsewhere.

"It's an honour 2 know there r many important coaches who r interested in me," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport. "These r managers who only coach prestigious clubs. I'll probably be fine working with them.

"But 4 the moment, Napoli is best 4 me. The fans show affection & make me feel important. I m enjoying the moment & 1 2 win with tis shirt.

"Thinking tat we r following in the footsteps of [Diego] Maradona & Careca [Antonio de Oliveira Filho] is something very beautiful, it's the greatest satisfaction."

Despite being settled in Italy, Cavani - whose contract runs until 2016 - says moving 2 a different league would not faze him.

"I feel ready 4 anything," he added. "I'm not afraid of anything & I don't fear comparisons. Who knows, 2morrow there could also be an option other than Napoli, we will see in the future."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/989650/david-beckham:-mn-city-have-'no-chance'-of-winning-title?cc=4716

Beckham: City hv 'no chance'
November 28, 2011

4mer ManU star David Beckham has played down ManC's hopes of winning the Premier League title tis season.

Big-spending City r unbeaten so far & currently sit 5 points clear of the defending champions aft only 13 games, having hammered them 6-1 @ Old Trafford last month.

However Beckham, 36, thinks tat experience will ultimately decide where the trophy finishes up @ the end of the campaign.

"I don't think ManC hv a chance,'' he told reporters. ''Tis season they hv got a good team & hv some good players, but ManU hv more experience & know how 2 win a championship."

Beckham's MLS winning LA Galaxy team r in Jakarta 2 play a local side as part of their Asian tour, but the midfielder was coy abt his own future when pressed on claims he could join either AC Milan or PSG 1s his contract expires in January, saying only: "I hv a big decision 2 make."


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/989563/ac-milan-only-looking-to-loan-antonio-cassano-replacement?cc=4716

Milan 1 Tevez 4 free
November 28, 2011

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has revealed tat any big-name signings made during the January transfer window will only be on loan.

Milan hv been linked with ManC outcast Carlos Tevez aft his agent Kia Joorabchian met with Galliani & Milan's transfer director Ariedo Braida @ the Rossoneri's head office on Thursday 2 discuss a deal.

Milan r looking 2 reinforce their attacking line with Italy striker Antonio Cassano ruled out indefinitely aft undergoing a heart procedure earlier tis month.

"Whoever comes 2 Milan in January will be on loan 4 free, with an option 2 make tat stay permanent," Galliani told Gazzetta dello Sport. "Tevez? We will see, there's time. Probably if we had not had Cassano's situation, we would remain as we r.''

It is believed City would demand a sizeable fee 2 take their unsettled striker on loan, with Italian media suggesting Milan may hv 2 pay upward of €5 million 2 secure a temporary deal.


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/989471/juventus-%22not-interested%22-in-tevez-deal?cc=4716

Juventus "not interested" in Tevez deal
November 28, 2011

Serie A leaders Juventus hv ruled themselves out of the running 2 sign rebel ManC striker Carlos Tevez.

Tevez, who is currently AWOL in Argentina, is expected 2 leave City during the January transfer window following his well-publicised fall-out with the club.

The striker's agent, Kia Joorabchian, held talks with AC Milan last Thursday & has claimed tat other Italian club's r interested in signing Tevez, with the Bianconeri thought 2 be amongst them.

However, Juventus insist they will not be making a move 4 the 27-year-old Argentina international.

"Tevez is a player tat doesn't interest us," Juve sporting director Giuseppe Marotta said. "Absolutely not, we're not interested.

"If we were 2 make an attacking signing we'll stay calm & evaluate wat 2 do."

Tevez has fallen out of favour @ City & fled 2 Argentina without the club's permission aft being charged with misconduct & fined 2-weeks' wages following his refusal 2 warm-up against Bayern Munich in September.

In the summer, a deal of around £38 million, including add-ons, was agreed betw City & Tevez's former club Corinthians, only 2 collapse due 2 the Brazilian outfit's inability 2 come up with a payment schedule tat suited the Blues hierarchy.

[screamer]

I like what I am seeing at the EPL Table every week...

no other team on top...:D

[Persistent Lee]

Man City will be new EPL champion this season :D

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/991052/corinthians-back-in-for-manchester-city-striker-carlos-tevez?cc=4716

Corinthians back in for Tevez
December 2, 2011

Corinthians president Andres Sanchez insists the Brazilian club r still interested in signing Carlos Tevez 4 the 2012 season.

Tevez was the subject of a £40 million bid betw his former club & ManC in the summer, but the deal fell over b4 the close of the transfer window. The Argentina international has since been linked with Serie rivals Inter & AC Milan, but Sanchez is confident the Brazilian club can lure the striker back 2 the Estadio do Pacaembu, despite last month suggesting their pursuit of Tevez was over.

"If Tevez leaves Europe, he comes 2 Corinthians. How much would we pay? I don't know," Sanchez said.

"He never had a problem @ Corinthians. They pulled him out of here, so I don't hv any problem with it. And I don't speak alot with him.

"But everything is different @ Corinthians. He knows the club & if he leaves Europe, he will definitely come back here."

City hv repeatedly stated they will not sell the want-away striker 4 less than his market value, believed 2 now be worth around £25 million. Tevez is still in Argentina having flown back 2 Buenos Aires on November 8 without ManC's permission.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/992866/ac-milan-given-green-by-light-manchester-city-over-carlos-tevez?cc=4716

Milan given green light over Tevez
December 5, 2011

AC Milan hv been given permission by ManC 2 open talks with striker Carlos Tevez, according 2 the Italian club's vice-president Adriano Galliani.

Tevez, 27, is expected 2 seal a move away fr City when the transfer window reopens on January 1 aft falling out with manager Roberto Mancini following a disagreement @ the Allianz Arena in September.

The Argentina international has not featured 4 the club since allegedly refusing 2 warm up ahead of an introduction 2 the field of play, as City trailed Bayern Munich 2-0 in Champions League Group A.

It has subsequently been suggested Milan could target Tevez on a loan deal in January, aft Antonio Cassano was sidelined 4 around 6 months following heart surgery, & Galliani has fuelled those rumours.

"Tevez is a City player," Galliani said to Gazzetta dello Sport. "The English club has authorised us 2 speak 2 his agent but we haven't spoken directly 2 City yet.

"We don't know wat City 1. I prefer not 2 speak 2 much abt Tevez, otherwise his price will go up & tis is not good."

When asked abt Milan's winter transfer window activity, Galliani said: "If any1 arrives, it will be a striker as our aim is 2 cover the place of the injured Cassano."

Tevez returned 2 his homeland last month without City's permission & is yet 2 report back 2 training.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/992952/kolo-toure:-manchester-city-hold-grudge-against-me?cc=4716

Toure: City hold grudge against me
December 6, 2011

Kolo Toure claims African players plying their trade in England r "victims of discrimination", & says ManC still hold ill will 2ward him aft going away 2 the 2010 African Cup of Nations.

Toure will miss important Premier League action next month when he again heads 2 the continental showpiece 2 represent the Ivory Coast. The 4mer Arsenal & City skipper contends tis sort of absence is often held against African players away on international duty during the European season.

"It's going 2 get more & more difficult 4 us, the Africans," he told So Foot.

"2 compete in the ANC, it's catastrophic these days. Coaches no longer 1 2 sign players becos of it. I m convinced tat, if I m not playing [4 City], it's not only 4 football reasons. If it was only abt the game, I'd be playing every week. I m the victim of tat, & it has 2 be said."

The defender also states City hv never 4given him 4 competing in the 2010 tournament, resulting in diminished playing time & Toure losing the club captaincy.

"When I was in Angola 4 the ANC in 2010, the club hired a plane so tat I could get back asap 4 a match against ManU [the Carling Cup semi-final 2nd leg]. I couldn't get back in time & we lost. I believe tat the club hv not got past tat, & I'm paying 4 it now," said Toure.

Toure's tirade did not stop @ criticising his employers either, as he launched in2 the club's latest £6 million signing, saying: "When u look @ the performance of [Stefan] Savic [on his league debut] against QPR - excuse me, I'm relaxed.

"I know my qualities, I've got nothing 2 prove here in England, they know me here. Football's like tat. It goes 1 way, then the other. The clubs @ tis level always hv big squads. Look, I was the cpt here. So was [Carlos] Tevez & he is no longer. Who would hv thought tat would happen?"


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/992987/kia-joorabchian:-man-city's-carlos-tevez-to-sign-for-european-club?cc=4716

Joorabchian: Tevez to stay in Europe
December 6, 2011

Carlos Tevez looks certain 2 head 2 Serie A in January aft Kia Joorabchian revealed he will sign 4 another club in Europe.

Tevez has been the target of newly-crowned Brazilian champions Corinthians since the summer, when a move collapsed as time ran out b4 the South American transfer window closed. There had been speculation tat Corinthians would renew their interest, but their hopes now appear 2 be slim.

Joorabchian, Tevez's advisor, says his player 1s 2 play 4 a "great club" & will stay in Europe.

"A return 2 Brazil? It's a possibility, but 4 the time being he 1s 2 play in Europe," Joorabchian was quoted as saying on www.milannews.it. "He (Tevez) is training intensely. In January he 1s 2 return 2 hv a starring role & play in a great club.

"Milan is a great club but there r other Italian clubs tat hv also requested information."

AC Milan president vice-president Adriano Galliani claimed in Monday tat the club hv been given permission by ManC 2 open talks with Tevez, who is currently AWOL aft his much-publicised troubled @ the Premier League club.

City manager Roberto Mancini has branded Tevez 'stupid' 4 the behaviour tis season tat has seen the striker move 2wards the exit door @ the club.

The Argentine has been out of favour with the club ever since appearing 2 refuse 2 come on as a substitute in City's Champions League game against Bayern Munich earlier in the season, a decision Mancini admits he was both shocked & hurt by.

"Tevez behaved stupidly in the way a player shouldn't - esp a great player," Mancini said. "I was really angry becos I was not expecting tat fr him. I always had excellent relations with him.

"That's the 1st time I've seen tat in such an important match when there was 40 mins still left 2 play."

Mancini was further angered by Tevez's subsequent refusal 2 apologise 4 his behaviour, aft being given the opportunity 2 return 2 the 1st-team fold even as the tide of public opinion was so heavily against him.

"10 days aft wat happened in Munich, I invited him 2 come 2 my place 2 talk," the Italian said. "I told him if he apologised 2 me, 2 the club, 2 the team, he could come back in2 the squad. I would hv forgiven him but he replied tat he didn't hv 2 apologise 2 any1."

City face Bayern Munich again on Wednesday night in the final game of the group stage, with the club knowing they must beat the German side & hope Villarreal do them a favour against Napoli if they r 2 progress 2 the last 16 of the competition.

Captain Vincent Kompany believes the club can emerge victorious, & should enjoy wat could prove a dramatic evening @ the Etihad Stadium.

"It will be a special night & with the players we hv, we r capable of anything," Kompany said. "It will be 1 of those nights when people will hv their eye on 2 different games.

"I hv learned tat these can be the most horrible nights, but also the best nights. Why not? Having Bayern Munich @ the Etihad is something tat hasn't happened 4 a long time so we should respect the moment. We must make a special night of it & believe 100% we can do it."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/993053/man-city's-roberto-mancini-backs-kolo-toure-over-'rant'?cc=4716

Mancini backs Toure over 'rant'
December 6, 2011

Roberto Mancini has given his support 2 Kolo Toure aft the defender was quoted criticising City & the attitude 2wards African players in the Premier League.

Quotes attributed 2 Toure in So Foot also included a damning assessment of fellow defender Stefan Savic, who signed 4 City in the summer, & suggested he was ready 2 leave the club.

Mancini said ahead of Wednesday's meeting with Bayern Munich in the Champions League: "I spoke abt tis with Kolo yesterday. He said he did not say anything abt tis. He doesn't hv any problems @ tis moment - he explained [tis] 2 me.

"Yesterday b4 training he said 2 me: 'Sorry boss but in the newspaper it will come out tat I said tis, tis, tis - but I did say nothing abt tis.' 4 me tis is okay."

Toure will miss important Premier League action next month when he again heads 2 the African Nations Cup 2 represent the Ivory Coast & he feels tis sort of absence is often held against African players away on international duty during the European season.

"It's going 2 get more & more difficult 4 us, the Africans," So Foot quoted Toure as saying. "2 compete in the ANC, it's catastrophic these days. Coaches no longer 1 2 sign players becos of it. I m convinced tat, if I m not playing [4 City], it's not only 4 football reasons. If it was only abt the game, I'd be playing every week. I m the victim of tat, & it has 2 be said."

The defender also stated City hv never forgiven him 4 competing in the 2010 tournament, resulting in diminished playing time & Toure losing the club captaincy.

"When I was in Angola 4 the ANC in 2010, the club hired a plane so tat I could get back asap 4 a match against ManU [the Carling Cup semi-final second leg]. I couldn't get back in time & we lost. I believe tat the club hv not got past tat, & I'm paying 4 it now," said Toure.

Toure's alleged tirade did not stop @ criticising his employers either, as he launched in2 the club's latest £6 million signing, saying: "When u look @ the performance of [Stefan] Savic [on his league debut] against QPR - excuse me, I'm relaxed.

"I know my qualities, I've got nothing 2 prove here in England, they know me here. Football's like tat. It goes 1 way, then the other. The clubs @ tis level always hv big squads. Look, I was the captain here. So was [Carlos] Tevez & he is no longer. Who would hv thought tat would happen?"

In October 2010, Lily Allen accepted undisclosed damages fr So Foot over an interview which quoted her as making offensive remarks abt Cheryl Cole & Victoria Beckham. The magazine admitted no interview ever took place.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/993160/roberto-mancini-to-confront-bayern-chief-rummenigge?cc=4716

Mancini to confront Bayern chief
December 6, 2011

Roberto Mancini intends 2 confront Bayern Munich chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge over his persistent sniping of ManC.

Rummenigge has been outspoken in his criticism of City & their swift rise which has been fuelled by the spending power of their affluent owner, Sheikh Mansour.

City recently announced annual losses of £194.9 million, & Rummenigge feels the Premier League club should be excluded fr European competition if they do not conform 2 UEFA's new Financial Fair Play rules.

Mancini has been left bemused by Rummenigge's comments & will raise the issue if he sees him @ the Etihad Stadium, where City meet Bayern in their final Champions League Group A match on Wednesday.

He said: "I don't understand Rummenigge's behaviour against ManC. For 6 months he talks against us every time 4 Financial Fair Play & he continues 2 say he hopes Napoli go thru 2 the 2nd stage.

"I don't know what's different with us. I think ManC r working 4 tis FFP 4 the next 2 years. But I don't understand wat happening with Rummenigge. 2morrow I will ask him."

City, who r 3rd in the group, need 2 beat already-qualified Bayern 2 hv any hope of progressing 2 the knockout stage. Even if they do win, they need Villarreal 2 claim their 1st point of the competition against Napoli 2 reach the last-16.

Mancini believes it is unfair 2 single out City, even though their progress in the 3 years since Mansour bought the club has been remarkable.

Although they hv struggled in Europe this season, City currently lead the Premier League by 5 points having won 12 of 14 games & scored 48 goals in the process.

Mancini said: "I think every team is worried abt ManC becos ManC in the future could become 1 of the top clubs in the world.

"But you don't 1 2 see tat every time an important man like Rummenigge who is the Bayern Munich chief executive & a representative of a top club in the world, every time he says things against us.

"Becos there r other teams in Europe tat hv a problem with Financial Fair Play, not only ManC."


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/993299/ac-milan-agree-move-with-carlos-tevez-but-not-manchester-city?cc=4716

Galliani announces Tevez agreement
December 6, 2011

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has revealed an agreement has now been reached with Carlos Tevez 4 a January loan move, although ManC hv yet 2 accept the offer.

Roberto Mancini has made clear tat Tevez is not part of his plans & Milan hv been in talks with the player's representatives over a January move.

"Betw yesterday & 2day I laid a few bricks 2 reinforce an already formidable squad," Galliani said. "I've been in my office with Tevez's agent & the situation is clear: Milan hv an agreement with the player & just now we sent a proposal 2 ManC - a free loan with right 2 buy @ certain conditions."

However, tat move is by no means certain of success - indeed, ESPNsoccernet has been informed by City sources tat they would not welcome a loan arrangement.

Asked why City should accept the bid, though, Galliani told Milan Channel: "He is not playing, he's a great player & if he does well with us then we'll buy him.

"The player is giving up a mountain of money. He had enormous bonuses with City 4 the Premiership & Champions League. I spoke 2 Carlitos & he 1s 2 join us. Half the agreement is complete; now we await City's response.

"If Tevez arrives, it'd be a new champion 4 all of Italian football 2 enjoy. We r close. The player was fantastic 4 the economic sacrifices he made & his great desire 2 come 2 Milan. I hope City say yes, as I managed 2 beat away some threats fr Italy & Europe, but I cannot tell you who. We r in pole position."

[Bebertov]

Tonight Game will be tough against Bayern ... Mancini need to win to ensure progress ... Hence my prediction below.. :)

Half / Full-Time Double : D-H @$4.20 .

Total Goals : 3goals @$3.90

Pick The Score : 2-1 or 3-2 to Man City... 2-1 @$7.50 , 3-2 @$19

Bayern away form is not that good.. :D

HUAT !!!!!

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/993470/manchester-city-skipper-vincent-kompany-primed-for-bayern-munich?cc=4716

Kompany primed for Bayern test
December 7, 2011

ManC captain Vincent Kompany insists there is "enough experience" of the Champions League in Roberto Mancini's side so as not 2 be overawed by the need 2 beat Bayern Munich 2 progress 2 the knockout stages.

City require a victory over the German giants in order 2 qualify fr Group A, though even tat will not be enough shld Napoli beat Villarreal in Spain.

Despite dominating domestically tis season - they r currently 5 points clear @ the top of the Premier League table & still unbeaten - City hv struggled 2 translate tat success on2 the continental stage in their inaugural Champions League season.

Away defeats against Bayern & Napoli hv put their qualification hopes in the balance, with Kompany & co's fate out of their own hands.

But despite failing 2 assert themselves thus far, Kompany believes there is enough individual experience of the Champions League 4 City 2 be able 2 step up 2 the plate in big games like the 1 @ Eastlands on Wednesday night.

"We hv experience in the competition," Kompany said. "Maybe not as a club but, individually, we hv enough experience in tis competition.

"4 me the only reason we hv not qualified yet is becos we r in the toughest group. I m convinced whatever happens we still hv alot 2 play 4 in Europe & I just hope it will be in the Champions League.''

City r currently 3rd in the group & will finish in tat position & drop in2 the Europa League if the results do not go in their favour.

It has been suggested Bayern, having already qualified 4 the last 16 as pool winners, could do City a favour by fielding a below-strength team but Kompany does not accept tat.

"I expect Bayern 2 put out a strong team," Kompany said. "Tat is 1 of the characteristics of such teams - they always 1 2 win. I can't imagine they would come here & 1 2 get beaten.

"If they did, we would be happy abt it but I would be surprised. But do we need a weaker team fr Bayern 2 win? I don't think so. I think they r a great team but I definitely think we hv still got alot 2 show in tis competition.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/993811/dejected-kompany-targets-europa-league-success?cc=4716

Kompany wants Europa success
December 7, 2011

ManC captain Vincent Kompany insisted winning the Europa League is a realistic target as his side's maiden Champions League campaign came 2 an end despite a convincing 2-0 win over an under-strength Bayern Munich.

David Silva & Yaya Toure scored as City produced a fine attacking display 2 secure the win they required but Napoli's defeat of Villarreal undid them & sent them tumbling out. The result means City will now be competing in the Europa League in the new year, with Bayern & Napoli progressing 2 the Champions League knockout stages.

"We hv 10 points [in the Champions League] but obviously we're disappointed,'' Kompany told Sky Sports. "Well done 2 Napoli. I think they've had a good season.

"The Champions League has finished 4 us but there's still so much 2 achieve tis season & the Europa League is a realistic competition 4 us now. We'll celebrate any cup.

"On the pitch we had absolutely no idea [tat we had not qualified]. I thought @ 2-0 up the fans would hv been more enthusiastic if we had qualified. We kind of had tis feeling but we didn't know.

"We've got 10 points out of it & the main [positive] was the draw @ home 2 Napoli. I don't think there's any shame of losing over there or against Bayern Munich.''

City manager Roberto Mancini believes winning the Europa League would still be a big achievement, saying: "We go in2 the Europa league. It's another trophy & it's an important trophy 4 ManC. It's a disappointment becos we wanted 2 play in the Champions League. 10 points is very difficult 2 go out.

"If u r in the final [of the Europa League] it will be very important becos I've never won the Europa League. We r a good team. We played well, we're very sorry 4 our supporters & I'm sorry 4 our players.

"I think we need 2 improve as a team becos we got a tough group [in the Champions League] tis year. Congratulations 2 Napoli, they got 1 point more than us. Now we r the top of the Premier League & the season will be long but we 1 2 improve on last year in the Premier League.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/993903/jens-lehmann:-boring,-boring-manchester-city?cc=4716

Lehmann: Boring, boring City
December 8, 2011

Former Arsenal & Germany goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has claimed the Champions League is better off without ManC aft they were eliminated fr the competition despite beating Bayern Munich 2-0 on Wednesday night.

Lehmann, working as a pundit 4 Germany's Sky television, could not hide his pleasure @ seeing City drop in2 the Europa League as Napoli joined Bayern in qualification fr Group A of the competition.

"ManC play very, very boring football," he said. "They just make their opponents fall asleep with lots of possession.

"But 2 be honest, tat is not tactically very demanding. The way they play here is the way any amateur team plays, only not on such good grass.

"They just pack men behind the ball, hv 5 against 2 & just move the ball around. The goal then just comes fr a fortunate circumstance."

Lehmann, who played in the Champions League final 4 Arsenal against Barcelona in 2006, albeit 4 only 18 mins b4 being sent off, was also unimpressed by the atmosphere @ the Etihad Stadium.

"There was no life in the stadium," he said. "It was dead. The fans r so quiet. You have got to say, though, tat they hv not got anything really 2 get excited abt here. They had possession all of the time, albeit in their own half where nothing was happening.

"It is a shame becos it is not typical English football. Napoli hv heart & passion & I liked them. It is good tat they hv gone thru. We don't 1 2 see ManC in the Champions League."

City hv been in sparkling form in the Premier League, with Roberto Mancini's men currently top of the table having scored 48 goals in 14 matches.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/994386/ac-milan-vp-rules-out-part-exchange-for-tevez?cc=4716

Milan VP rules out Tevez swap
December 9, 2011

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani has brushed aside rumours Alexandre Pato or any other Rossonero player would be included in the deal 2 bring ManC 4ward Carlos Tevez 2 the San Siro in January.

Speculation in England claimed Milan would be ready 2 offer Brazilian striker Pato 2 City as part of a swap deal tat would see Tevez join the Italian champions.

"There is an offer sent 2 Manchester 4 Tevez,'' Galliani said. "However, we hv not spoken abt any of our players going 2 City or any other club. Our fans can be calm becos tis is the truth.''

AC Milan claimed tis week they had reached an agreement with Tevez & had sent an offer 2 City 2 acquire the player on loan in the winter transfer market.

"We know tat City's desire is 2 sell the player but our offer is 2 get the player on loan with an option 2 make that deal permanent,'' Galliani had said. "We hope tat City says yes becos our offer will not be modified.

"I m neither optimistic nor pessimistic. Wat I can certainly say is tat the player would like 2 come 2 Milan, it would his preferred destination. But we must convince City 2 loan the player out & tat is not easy.''


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/994179/nigel-de-jong:-premier-league-was-always-the-main-target?cc=4716

De Jong: Title was always main target
December 9, 2011

ManC midfielder Nigel de Jong claims the club must quickly shrug off their disappointing exit fr the Champions League 2 focus on their number 1 target - the Premier League title.

City's debut campaign in Europe's flagship competition came 2 an end on Wednesday night when they failed 2 progress fr Group A, finishing in 3rd place behind Bayern Munich & Napoli 2 drop in2 the Europa League.

But Dutch midfielder De Jong insists lifting the Premier League trophy was always City's top target 4 tis season & the club r on course 2 do just tat as they hold a 5-point lead over 2nd place ManU.

Reflecting on City's Champions League exit, De Jong said: "We won't be affected by tis setback. Winning the league will make up 4 tis. We didn't go thru in the Champions League but we can't let tat distract us fr our main target - & tat's winning the Premier League.

"We r still in with a chance of 4 cups. We r not despairing abt the season becos it's still early.

"It's the 1st year City were in the Champions League & expectations were high. But in the group expectations weren't so high becos our main target was still the Premier League title."

City return 2 domestic action on Monday night in a high-profile clash with a resurgent Chelsea @ Stamford Bridge & De Jong thinks the match will provide a good indicator of City's title-winning potential.

"You hv 2 beat them 2 become Premier League winners," De Jong said. "They r still title contenders & still up there."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/preview/_/id/318226?cc=4716

City to test Blues' credentials

"I just think the reaction has been over the top. There's only 1 team in the country @ the moment, & tat's ManC. I hope they qualify, sincerely, but the attitude has been 'If they qualify they qualify & if they don't they don't'. That's not the same as with us. I will never criticise your editorial choices, but it's the reality."

When Andre Villas-Boas launched in2 his attack on the media in the aftermath of Chelsea's 3-0 victory over Valencia & subsequent progression 2 the knockout rounds of the Champions League, he did not merely request tat the press refrain fr criticising his team but also questioned why they had not applied equal criticism 2 ManC.

The explanation, of course, owes 2 the fact tat ManC r top of the Premier League table, unbeaten, with a goal difference of +35, & hv struggled only in the Champions League - struggles mitigated by the fact they were drawn in2 a group of death in their debut season in the competition.

However, with City's demotion 2 the Europa League on Wednesday, Villas-Boas has planted a seed of doubt ahead of Monday's meeting @ Stamford Bridge as 2 whether Roberto Mancini's men might in fact be failing 2 meet expectations.

Tis is still a team in transition - inevitable aft the years of reliance on so strong & established a spine of players - & it remains 2 be seen whether Roman Abramovich has now discovered the patience 2 resist his itchy trigger finger. The suspicion is tat he will give Villas-Boas, who was so expensive an acquisition, the time 2 see thru the mission so long as it remains feasible 2 do so, & the signs of recovery r now clearly in evidence. Even so, it is important the momentum is maintained. The Blues hv won 3 of their last 4 games 3-0, but all could be considered flattering 2 various degrees &, while the results ease the pressure & offer them room 2 find their very best form, finding it is a must if they r 2 deliver against the league leaders.

City look 2 hv shaken off a dip in form of their own - in November, they laboured 2 victory over QPR, lost 2 Napoli & were fortunate 2 take a 1-1 draw with Liverpool - &, though they r no longer in the Champions League, they seem 2 be the season's standard-bearers in the Premier League. Tis is a real test 4 Chelsea, & a chance 2 banish the negative headlines 4 some time 2 come: by putting pressure on his opponents while simultaneously fostering a siege mentality, Villas-Boas is doing all he can 2 find an advantage.

Chelsea player 2 watch:
Daniel Sturridge. Didier Drogba showed signs he was back 2 his best in midweek, & if he can maintain tat form then Chelsea's concerns shld all but fade away, yet the livewire Sturridge may be the man 2 watch on Monday. At 22, his development looks 2 be slightly behind track as a result of limited 1st-team experience prior 2 his loan move 2 Bolton in January, & as a result he still looks wasteful & prone 2 bad decision-making. Even so, tis is a 4ward bursting with natural ability & the desire 2 win matches &, against his former club, it would be foolish 2 dismiss his potential impact.

ManC player 2 watch:
Mario Balotelli. Though still endlessly making headlines, Balotelli has tis season found tat good form on the field significantly lessens the impact of the bad publicity. With 7 goals in his last 9 league games, & having been rested 4 all but the final 9 mins of Wednesday's victory over Bayern Munich, Roberto Mancini is likely 2 rely on his fellow Italian 2 lead the charge.

Key Battle: Juan Mata v David Silva.
These former Valencia stars hv adapted superbly well 2 life in the Premier League & may even be considered the key men 4 their respective clubs. With Mata having contributed 7 assists in his last 9 league games & Silva leading the assist charts with 8 for the season, their ability 2 supply the 4wards will hv a major effect on Monday night. Mata has already heaped misery on his former Valencia colleagues tis week & will hope his friend @ City suffers the same fate on Monday.

Trivia:
During Jose Mourinho's 1st season - when Andre Villas-Boas was part of the backroom team - Chelsea's only defeat came in a 1-0 defeat 2 ManC. The scorer of tat penalty on October 16, 2004, was Nicolas Anelka, then of City & now in exile @ Chelsea.

Stats:
Although ManC hv scored 24 goals in their 7 away games in the league tis season, Chelsea can take heart fr the fact City hv scored in only 1 of their last 9 games @ Stamford Bridge.

Odds:
Chelsea (2.40), ManC (2.75) & the draw (3.40) r on offer with bet365 while Mario Balotelli is available @ 8.00 as 1st goal-scorer.

Prediction:
While Villas-Boas' men hv not yet matched the standards of the Chelsea of old, there r encouraging signs tat his new side r starting 2 find some cohesion. They r installed as favourites with bet365, but a draw is perhaps the more likely option.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/995369/samir-nasri:-man-utd-bigger-title-threat-to-man-city-than-chelsea?cc=4716

Nasri: United a bigger threat than Blues
December 11, 2011

Samir Nasri says ManC hv nothing 2 fear when they visit Stamford Bridge on Monday, claiming it is ManU & not Chelsea who represent the main title threat 2 Roberto Mancini's side.

City currently hold a 2-point advantage over United @ the top of the Premier League, but could reassert a 5-point lead should they beat the Blues on their own turf.

A defeat 4 Andre Villas-Boas' charges, already 10 points adrift in 5th place, would be catastrophic & likely signal a premature end 2 their title aspirations tis season.

Chelsea do go in2 the game in buoyant mood aft qualifying 4 the knockout stages of the Champions League in midweek, while City & United were knocked out of the competition, but Nasri feels tat, domestically, it will be the 2 Manchester clubs fighting it out 4 the title come the end of the campaign.

"ManU r still the threat 2 us," Nasri was quoted as saying in the Sunday Mirror. "I say tat becos they hv more experience than any other team.

"It will be difficult when we play Chelsea, of course, but we knew it would also be difficult going 2 places like Spurs, ManU & Liverpool - & we had great results against those teams. So I don't know wat we hv 2 fear abt Chelsea.

"We r confident abt our quality & we will try 2 play the same game tat Liverpool did when they beat Chelsea in the league @ Stamford Bridge. We know tat if we press them high & play our football, then they will be in difficulty."

While City will look 2 follow Liverpool's tactical blueprint against Chelsea, Nasri insists it is European champions Barcelona tat he & his team-mates r looking 2 emulate.

"Our model is Barcelona," he said. "As a team we defend very high up the pitch & I believe that's why we r scoring so many goals.

"When u win the ball in the other team's half it will always be easier 2 score becos u r closer 2 goal. You hv less distance 2 run & u r fresher running just 30 metres.

"We cannot win the Champions League now, but our objective @ the start of the season was the [Premier] League."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/995935/man-city's-carlos-tevez-won't-join-ac-milan,-says-clarence-seedorf?cc=4716

Tevez won't join Milan - Seedorf
December 13, 2011

Clarence Seedorf does not think Carlos Tevez will join AC Milan becos he expects the striker 2 join the club which can "promise him the most money".

ManC r looking 2 offload the out-of-favour Tevez in the January transfer window, with AC Milan & PSG among the sides chasing his signature.

City hv already rejected the prospect of a loan deal 4 their former skipper, & with French side PSG expected 2 offer Tevez a better salary than the Serie A side, Milan midfielder Seedorf admits he is not expecting the Argentine 2 arrive @ the San Siro in January.

"Looking back @ his career, his agents & every move he has ever made, I think Tevez will go where they can promise him the most money," Seedorf told Sky Sport Italia.

"Milan would be the 1st time in his life tat he has chosen a club 4 his career rather than the money. We'll see wat happens."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/996369/no-approach-for-man-city's-carlos-tevez-from-tottenham-or-psg?cc=4716

No Tevez approach from Spurs, PSG
December 14, 2011

ManC striker Carlos Tevez is no closer 2 leaving the club, despite heightened media speculation abt interest fr PSG & Tottenham.

Reports on Wednesday in The Sun - 4 whom Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp is a regular columnist - suggested tat Spurs r keen 2 take Tevez off City's hands, while a French radio station claimed tat the Argentina striker's representatives had met with PSG earlier tis week.

But ESPNsoccernet has been informed tat there has been no approach fr Tottenham & tat PSG only made a tentative enquiry in the initial aftermath of Tevez's refusal 2 warm-up against Bayern Munich in October, & hv not been back with an official offer since.

"French radio were reporting a meeting betw the player's advisors & PSG on Monday night when nothing of the sort was going on," a City insider told ESPNsoccernet. "There has been media speculation tat City hv agreed a fee with PSG - again, there is nothing going on."

AC Milan hv been the only club 2 make an actual offer 4 Tevez, though their bid 2 take him on loan with a view 2 signing him permanently for £21 million in the summer was rejected by City, who are rigidly standing by their principles of not loaning out Tevez under any circumstances.

City r demanding a "fair market price" 4 Tevez - thought 2 be around €35 million - & maintain tat he will remain on the Premier League club's books 4 the rest of the season, even if he never kicks a ball again 4 them.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/998693/premier-league:-man-city-back-on-top-with-victory-over-arsenal?cc=4716

City return 2 summit
December 18, 2011

ManC returned 2 winning ways - & went back 2 the top of the Premier League - with a 1-0 victory in a pulsating clash against Arsenal @ the Etihad Stadium.

City had taken 4 out a possible 9 points heading in2 the fixture, & lost their unbeaten record against Chelsea on Monday. But they looked back 2 somewhere near their best as a goal fr David Silva saw off a spirited challenge fr the Gunners, & took City 2 points abv ManU, who had gone top with a win over QPR earlier in the day.

City were rampant aft the goal & should hv put the game out of Arsenal's reach on 2 occasions just aft the hour, most glaringly when Samir Nasri somehow fluffed wat should hv been an easy square ball in2 the path of Mario Balotelli 6 yards out. Sergio Aguero was less guilty, drilling narrowly wide fr inside the area.

The Gunners weathered the storm - although there was another huge scare when Pablo Zabaleta drilled a shot against the post - & nearly fashioned an equaliser in the 90th minute when Thomas Vermaelen's long-range strike forced Joe Hart in2 a flying save. But City held on 4 a win tat proves their mettle as title challengers.

ManU had spent a couple of hours on top of the table aft recording a 2-0 win over QPR earlier in the day.

SAF's men hv responded superbly 2 crashing out of the Champions League, thumping Wolves last week b4 becoming only the 3rd side 2 beat Rangers @ Loftus Road tis season. Crucial 2 both results has been Wayne Rooney, who scored 2 against Wolves & added another in London, breaking the deadlock b4 Michael Carrick added a 2nd.

Rooney required less than 60 seconds 2 nod United ahead in the lunchtime kick-off, arriving @ the back post 2 glance a diving header past Radek Cerny fr Antonio Valencia's cross. Cerny was woefully exposed 4 tat early strike & he was made 2 work overtime again later in the half when, having already dived, he lifted up an arm 2 miraculously deny Valencia's goalbound effort.

QPR had their chances 2 level, not least thru Jay Bothroyd, who lazily swept over when well-placed on the edge of the box & then later drilled right across the face of goal with no takers @ the back post.

United looked the slicker, more clinical outfit, yet when their 2nd came it was in extremely soft circumstances. Joey Barton played a poor pass 2 Carrick, & even though the England midfielder had 2 run fr the halfway line 2 score, he progressed unchallenged b4 sending a relatively tame effort past Cerny. Jonny Evans almost extended the champions' lead when heading against an upright, but Ferguson's men were well worth the 3 points.

Liverpool moved within 3 points of 3rd-placed Chelsea with a hugely comfortable 2-0 triumph over Aston Villa. The Reds arrived @ Villa Park with the best defence in the top flight, & they added another clean sheet 2 support first-half goals fr Craig Bellamy & Martin Skrtel.

Villa were always going 2 be up against it with Darren Bent sidelined by a thigh injury & Gabriel Agbonlahor suspended, & things became even more difficult when Bellamy tapped home an 11th-minute corner fr Stewart Downing, aft flicks by Jonjo Shelvey & Luis Suarez.

Alex McLeish's side hv been vulnerable @ set-pieces all season & the 2nd also came fr a corner in the 17th minute, Skrtel rising with authority @ the near post 2 glance high in2 the top corner with Bellamy tis time the provider.

Liverpool deserved 2 win by a larger scoreline & they almost had a 3rd early in the 2nd period when Suarez beat 2 defenders 2 slam the ball against the bar, & the brilliant Uruguayan went close again just b4 the hour, sending an audacious chip against Guzan's right post.

Tottenham remain 5 ahead of Liverpool aft they defeated Sunderland 1-0 @ White Hart Lane. Spurs were without Gareth Bale & Jermain Defoe 4 the visit of Martin O'Neill's side, & they also lost Aaron Lennon 2 a hamstring injury midway thru the 1st half.

However, they still managed 2 claim 3 points thanks 2 a 2nd-half strike fr Roman Pavlyuchenko, who slotted past Keiren Westwood aft a sublime reverse pass by Rafael van der Vaart.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/998940/ac-milan's-adriano-galliani-moves-to-complete-carlos-tevez-deal?cc=4716

Galliani moves to complete Tevez deal
December 19, 2011

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani is set 2 fly 2 Manchester tis week with the hope of finalising a deal 4 wantaway City striker Carlos Tevez.

Tevez is still AWOL in Argentina, having left 4 his homeland without the permission of his club, while City look 2 find a club willing 2 purchase the player.

Milan, meanwhile, hv stated their desire 2 bring Tevez 2 the San Siro on loan 2 replace the injured Antonio Cassano, & hope 2 hv the 27-year-old available 4 their training camp in Dubai in 2 weeks.

"On Thursday we hv an appointment with ManC 4 Tevez but it will probably not be the decisive 1 2 conclude negotiations," Galliani said, according 2 Italian Eurosport.

Galliani also told Radio 1 Rai: "We're not going 2 take him outright: we're offering a free loan with the right 2 buy in June. The player 1s 2 come 2 us & not PSG (Paris St Germain) & we hope City accept the offer.''

Galliani also said signing Maxi Lopez, currently @ Catania, was a "standby'' option if Milan r unable 2 agree terms with City 4 Tevez.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/999291/roberto-mancini-rules-out-ac-milan-loan-deal-for-carlos-tevez?cc=4716

Mancini rules out Tevez loan
December 20, 2011

ManC manager Roberto Mancini has cast fresh doubt on Carlos Tevez's proposed move 2 AC Milan, insisting the rebel striker will not be allowed 2 leave Eastlands on loan.

Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani is set 2 fly 2 Manchester on Thursday 2 negotiate a deal, but the Italian club hv already stated tat they do not hv the cash 2 buy Tevez outright.

The Rossoneri 1 2 take Tevez on a temporary basis, 2 replace injured 4ward Antonio Cassano, & will only consider purchasing the Argentina international @ the end of the season.

However, it seems unless they r willing 2 agree 2 a permanent switch in the January transfer window, Tevez will not be heading 2 the San Siro.

"I hope we can find a good solution 4 us & Carlos,'' said Mancini. "We 1 Carlos 2 come back & play football & the best solution 4 us is 2 sell him. We can't let him leave on loan.''

Meanwhile, Galliani told Radio 1 Rai: "We're not going 2 take him outright: we're offering a free loan with the right 2 buy in June. The player 1s 2 come 2 us & not PSG (Paris St Germain) & we hope City accept the offer.''

With Tevez currently still in Argentina, City's stance runs the risk of extending the present impasse beyond the January transfer deadline. However, as Mancini outlined, there is a simple reason behind City's position.

"When ManC buy a player, they hv 2 pay alot of money,'' he said. "But when we 1 2 sell them, they hv 2 go on loan. Tis is not good. It is not correct 4 the other players.

"ManC paid Carlos alot of money for 3 years. It is correct tat if 1 club, it could be Milan, Juventus, PSG, Inter, 1 him, they pay Carlos 4 his value. Tis is correct.''

Milan chief Galliani says signing Maxi Lopez, currently @ Catania, was a "standby'' option if Milan r unable 2 agree terms with City 4 Tevez.


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/999240/we-cannot-afford-to-slip-up,-silva-warns-city?cc=4716

We cannot afford to slip up, Silva warns City
December 20, 2011

David Silva has warned his ManC team-mates tat rivals ManU will never give up on the Premier League.

City briefly surrendered top spot @ the weekend, but returned 2 the summit aft a narrow 1-0 win over Arsenal on Sunday.

United r just 2 points behind after City lost @ Chelsea last week, & Silva has warned they cannot afford 2 slip up again.

"We r aware tat ManU r going 2 be pushing us all the way but we hv 2 focus on ourselves," Silva said in The Sun. "You might say United hv been disappointing but they r right there on our heels & you can't knock tat.

"We know they r going 2 be right behind us so we hv 2 make sure there r no slip-ups & try 2 win every game. We hv 2 keep playing @ the same level as we hv been. 2 keep the gap as it is we hv 2 keep winning our games."

City manager Roberto Mancini celebrated 2 years in charge @ Eastlands tis week, & Silva, who scored the winner 4 City on Sunday, believes tat despite City's failure 2 reach the knockout stages of the Champions League, Mancini has surpassed expectations.

"I think Roberto is doing a great job. He got us in2 the Champions League 4 tis season & the fact we r top speaks 4 itself," he said. "We also won the FA Cup last year & it would be nice 2 repeat tat - but the Premier League title is the big target.

"We r playing some good football & let us hope the manager is repaid 4 tis style with the title @ the end of the season. I m really enjoying my football here."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1000989/adebayor:-african-nations-cup-could-cost-city?cc=4716

Adebayor: ANC could cost City
December 25, 2011

Emmanuel Adebayor believes the wheels could come off ManC's title challenge when they lose Yaya Toure 4 the African Nations Cup next year.

City hv enjoyed a near-faultless start 2 their Premier League campaign, losing just 1s in their opening 17 matches 2 open up a 2-point gap on ManU @ the top of the table.

Roberto Mancini has rotated his squad on a regular basis, but Yaya Toure has been 1 of the few 2 maintain a regular place in the starting XI thanks 2 his tireless displays in midfield.

However, Mancini will hv 2 do without the former Barcelona man 4 up 2 a month next year as he heads 2 Gabon & Equatorial Guinea 2 take part in the African Nations Cup along with his brother & City team-mate Kolo Toure.

And Adebayor, who is on loan @ Spurs fr City, thinks losing both players will be a big challenge tat he hopes Tottenham can take advantage of.

''They hv 2 players going 2 the African Nations Cup. Kolo Toure is not playing alot but he is a great player,'' Adebayor said. ''Yaya Toure has been amazing 4 them tis year.

''We will hv 2 wait & see (how they cope). In football u can hv 2 or 3 injuries in a week. Tat has happened 2 us recently.

''City hv a great team, a great spirit & @ the moment they r playing good football, but if they got a couple of injuries I think it would be very difficult 4 them.''

The tournament takes place fr January 21 to February 12, during which time City face Spurs, Everton, Fulham & Aston Villa, while both players will also miss the game against Wigan on January 16 due 2 the Ivory Coast's training camp.

Cameroon's failure 2 qualify, & Togo's ban, mean tat Spurs will not lose any of their players, leaving Adebayor buoyant abt his side's chances of boosting their title chances if injuries 2 the likes of Aaron Lennon, Rafael van der Vaart & Jermain Defoe clear up.

''We will hv every1 here when the African Nations Cup is on,'' the 27-year-old said. ''Now we just hv 2 hope tat all our players come back fit very soon becos we hv Lennon out 4 a couple of weeks maybe.

''Gareth Bale got a kick again on the ankle against Chelsea. Hopefully it is not 2 bad. We just hv 2 keep doing our thing, keep enjoying ourselves, & if we get all our players fit we can expect something.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1002230/mancini-expects-carlos-tevez-exit,-wayne-bridge-denial?cc=4716

Mancini expects Tevez exit
December 30, 2011

ManC boss Roberto Mancini has said it was possible Carlos Tevez could leave the club within 10 days if AC Milan accepted they needed 2 buy the Argentina star rather than take him on loan.

"We hope AC Milan 1 2 take him," said Mancini. "It could be close in 1 week or 10 days, but I don't know if it is possible. `We can close tis situation but they cannot take him on loan."

Meanwhile, Mancini has rejected Wayne Bridge's claim he refuses 2 talk 2 the defender & revealed tat the former Chelsea man had no future @ the club as long ago as 2 years ago.

Mancini recently questioned Bridge's motives 4 remaining @ City, hinting tat the player's salary of £90,000 a week salary was the overriding factor.

Bridge denied tis & revealed his discontent @ Mancini's managerial techniques. Now the City boss has hit back 1s more.

"Bridge said I don't speak 2 him. Tat is not true," said Mancini. "I told Wayne 2 years ago tat he was not part of our plans & if he wanted 2 find a good solution he should go somewhere else."

Mancini said he hoped Bridge & fellow defender Nedum Onuoha would leave City during next month's transfer window.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1003221/last-gasp-loss-leaves-man-city's-roberto-mancini-glum?cc=4716

Last-gasp loss leaves Mancini glum
January 1, 2012

ManC manager Roberto Mancini was left "really disappointed" aft his side lost in the final seconds @ Sunderland in a game deemed must-win by the Italian coach.

City went in2 their match @ the Stadium of Light buoyed by ManU's shock home defeat against Blackburn 24 hours earlier which presented them with a chance 2 open up a 3 points advantage @ the top.

However, in 2nd-half stoppage time with the scoreline goalless, Ji Dong-Won, who replays show was offside, struck 2 hand Sunderland a famous win under their new manager Martin O'Neill.

"I'm really disappointed," Mancini told Sky Sports 1. "2nd half we had alot of chances 2 score. We didn't score, but we can't concede a counter-attack like tis.

"We conceded 2, 3 counter-attacks in the last 10 mins which were really dangerous. A strong team can't concede tis game. Sometimes when u can't win - becos it was difficult - u can't lose.

"You need 2 defend those. Sometimes when u attack with 7 players it's enough, becos if not u can concede a counter-attack like we conceded.

"In the 1st half we didn't play very well, 2nd half much better. We had 2 win tis game. Tis moment is a strange situation."

Asked if tat was good enough, Mancini replied: "No, not 4 a top team. In tat situation, we attacked with 8 players & the same players who attack need 2 come back & run quickly.

"I know football & 4 tat reason in the last 15 mins, I continued 2 call [central defenders] Vinny [Vincent Kompany] & [Joleon] Lescott 2 say, 'Stay there, stay there, don't leave the space', becos tat was dangerous.

"We continued 2 attack & sometimes we wanted 2 attack with 10 players. Tis is impossible. But tat's it, it's finished. We hv a game in 48 hours & we need 2 recover now.''

Mancini, who headed down the tunnel b4 the final whistle, admitted his side had been made 2 pay 4 missed chances.

He said: "It's frustrating becos we can't lose a game like 2day's. In the 2nd half, we had I don't know how many chances 2 score.

"But football is tis. Sometimes you can't win. Sometimes you score 3 or 4 goals in a game, sometimes u can't score even if you hv 10 chances 2 score.

"I m disappointed tat we conceded a goal becos a strong team cannot concede a goal like tis.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1004456/manchester-united-boss-sir-alex-ferguson:-advantage-to-city?cc=4716

Ferguson: Advantage to Manchester City
January 5, 2012

ManU boss Sir Alex Ferguson insists there is no need 2 panic aft his side's 3-0 loss 2 Newcastle, but does admit Premier League title rivals ManC r now in the box seat.

Ferguson watched on as United were kept 3 points behind City in the league table, aft Roberto Mancini's side cruised 2 a home victory over Liverpool on Tuesday. However, the Scot is remaining calm despite a 2nd successive league defeat.

"Advantage 2 them [City] of course," Ferguson told Sky Sports. "They played yesterday & got the 3 points, & we played 2day & didn't manage 2 win - so of course they hv the advantage. It's not a time 2 panic - we hv the experience 2 cope with tat.

"Losing a game @ tis time of the year, u don't 1 it, but it sometimes can happen - u hv seen some of the results recently. But obviously, we need 2 get the show on the road in terms of the run-in, particularly in March & April."

Ferguson also conceded tat Newcastle striker Demba Ba was 2 much of a "handful" 4 his side. Ba got the ball rolling as Alan Pardew's side claimed the victory, punishing Rio Ferdinand 4 some sloppy defending as he volleyed past Anders Lindegaard.

Strike partner Shola Ameobi also played a key role in the build-up 2 the goal - flicking on Tim Krul's deep free-kick - & Ferguson acknowledged aft the game tat the 2 powerful strikers had caused his side huge problems, b4 Yohan Cabaye's free-kick extinguished their hopes of coming away with something.

"They r very strong, big aggressive lads," Ferguson said. "They didn't tear us apart but they were a handful.

"The story of the game was they had 2 fantastic strikes which put them in the driving seat. The 2nd 1 was a killer 4 us, it was a marvellous strike.

"But we didn't make enough of our possession of the ball anyway. It was 1 of those nights."

[sundog]

i didnt notice there is a mancity fan club here :p :p :p

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1005139/man-city-boss-roberto-mancini-scoffs-at-sir-alex-ferguson?cc=4716

Mancini scoffs at Ferguson taunt
January 7, 2012

Roberto Mancini has laughed off claims by his ManU counterpart SAF tat City r not playing the best football in England.

City r leading the race 4 the Premier League title & will take on 2nd-placed United in a 3rd-round FA Cup tie on Sunday. But ahead of the derby clash, Ferguson suggested it is Tottenham who hv played the best football so far tis season.

"It is difficult 2 say yr neighbour is playing better football," Mancini said. "Tottenham can win the title. They hv done a fantastic season until now & in the next 4 months, I don't know. But, 4 now, we r playing the best football in the Premier League.

"In every city where there r 2 teams, the rivalry is very intense. Rome, Milan, it is strong everywhere.

"In Milan it might be different becos 4 a long time Inter & Milan stayed @ the top. They won European Cups & championships. But, remember, b4 I arrived at Inter, they didn't win for 19 years. 4 Inter tis was very difficult becos Milan won alot of trophies.

"It is the same situation here. It is clear ManC doesn't hv Inter's history but they hv also started 2 build a new team, a strong team & has got 2 the same level as the other 1."

City defeated their rivals in the semi-finals last year en route 2 FA Cup glory, & won 6-1 @ Old Trafford in October, leaving Mancini's men on the brink of a hat-trick of derby victories 4 the 1st time since 1969. Mancini, though, concedes it will take more than just recent triumphs 4 his club 2 match United's famous mental strength.

"If u 1 my opinion, ManU r the best team in England," he said. "Maybe not now becos they hv 6 or 7 important players injured. But they hv a strong team with a strong mentality & they r @ the top.

"We can't be like them in 2 years. They hv had tis mentality for 25 years. We can improve if we continue 2 win, if we win the championship or other cups. We started it last season. But in 2 years it is impossible."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1005917/sir-alex-ferguson-praises-roberto-mancini's-man-city-achievements?cc=4716

Sir Alex praises Mancini
January 8, 2012

ManU manager SAF has praised his opposite number fr across the city ahead of Sunday's FA Cup tie @ Eastlands.

Sir Alex takes his side 2 ManC eager 4 revenge 4 their 6-1 Old Trafford humbling in the Premier League in October. And despite the wounds of tat defeat still being fresh, the United boss was quick 2 concede tat Roberto Mancini has excelled @ City.

"It's right 2 say alot of managers couldn't handle the expectations @ City," Sir Alex said. "He's shown alot of good decision-making in his time there. Most importantly, it looks 2 me tat he's got the strength of character 2 handle big players. I don't think he's afraid of them.

"He's done a great job & I can see him staying there 4 a considerable length of time. I'm sure he's in 1 of the best paid jobs & the salaries they r apparently paying the players r enormous, so he's always going 2 attract the best players. So there's no reason why he should 1 2 leave tat - if they keep on winning.

"There's no reason why u can't get on with other managers becos we hv got the same job. It's a difficult job & I respect managers who commit themselves the way most of the managers in the Premier League do.

"Why we r in it, I couldn't tell u. Maybe it's becos it's the only thing we know - the only thing we 1 2 know. It's tat driven love tat exists betw us all tat makes us 1 2 stay in it."

On the FA Cup itself, he added: "I don't think it's got the same magic as it had when I 1st came down here & that's alot 2 do with the doing away of replays until the tie was decided. You could hv 3 or 4 replays.

"Also, the decision 2 play semi-finals @ Wembley has lessened the Cup's importance & the emphasis on European football & the Premier League, with its television coverage, has changed things."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1006371/mancini-accuses-rooney-of-influencing-kompany-red?cc=4716

Mancini accuses Roo of influencing ref
January 9, 2012

ManC manager Roberto Mancini has accused ManU striker Wayne Rooney of influencing referee Chris Foy's decision 2 send off Vincent Kompany in their FA Cup 3rd round defeat.

City captain Kompany was given his marching orders aft just 9 mins on Sunday, aft appearing 2 make a 2-footed tackle on United winger Nani. The dismissal proved crucial as United went on 2 claim a 3-2 victory against their opponents - but Mancini believes Rooney played a key role in Foy's crucial decision by making his feelings known.

"It was not a red card - Rooney told him his decision," Mancini said afterwards.

When pushed further, he added: "Yes, he [Rooney] was near the referee. It was not a red card. It's impossible, but I don't 1 2 talk abt the referee becos I 1 2 stay on the bench 4 the next game."

Rooney later dismissed the accusation, however, posting on Twitter: "Funny how people think I got Kompany sent off. Im not ref. i didnt give red card. But it was a clear red card. 2 footed tackle."

The Italian confirmed the club will appeal against Kompany's red, which will otherwise see the Belgian miss 4 games having already been sent off 1s tis season. Mancini is confident of a successful appeal, despite similar cases - most recently Nenad Milijas' red card against Arsenal - seeing the referee's initial decision upheld by the FA.

"We will do an appeal & I m sure tat we will win," he said. "There is no way Vincent shouldn't play against Liverpool in the Carling Cup semi-final on Wednesday.

"It was 300% not a sending off."

Despite losing the game @ Etihad Stadium, Mancini revealed his belief tat the manner of his side's performance aft they went down with 10 men will stand them in good stead over the remainder of the Premier League season, believing the league leaders hv gained a psychological edge over the side 3 points behind them.

''Tis evening is important 4 the league," the former Inter Milan boss noted. ''Now I think we can win the league becos of the character we showed. United is a top squad in England.

"At Old Trafford, with 10 men for 40 mins, they lost 6-1 [in the league]. Today we played for 80 mins with 10 players, scored 2 goals & didn't concede any chances. It was a fantastic performance.

"If we hv the same attitude & same strength every game, we will win the league."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=334332&cc=4716

Reds overcome sorry City

ManC slumped 2 their 2nd home defeat in 4 days as Steven Gerrard's early penalty moved Liverpool 2 within 90 mins of their 1st Wembley appearance since 1996.

Lacking key men, including skipper Vincent Kompany who sat forlornly in the stands as he began a 4-match ban, & drained by the energy exerted @ having 2 play for 78 mins with 10 men against ManU @ the weekend, City were a shadow of their usual selves.

It represented the 1st time they had lost back-2-back games @ the Etihad Stadium since February 2008, b4 Sheikh Mansour began his billion pound quest 2 conquer the English game.

The only consolation came fr knowing they could still reach a Carling Cup final against either Crystal Palace or Cardiff if they can reverse tis result in the 2nd leg @ Anfield in a fortnight.

Little wonder Roberto Mancini was so keen 2 fight Kompany's suspension.

With Kolo Toure on African Nations Cup duty with the Ivory Coast, it forced the City boss 2 pitch Stefan Savic in2 the biggest game of his fledgling Blues career.

The Montenegrin was only 21 last week & has started just 1 Barclays Premier League game 4 City since joining fr Partizan Belgrade in the summer.

It soon became clear he was in 4 a difficult evening.

Tat Andy Carroll was able 2 spin away fr him & race on2 Stewart Downing's thru-ball said everything given the wretched time the Liverpool striker has had in his 12 months on Merseyside.

Returning keeper Joe Hart was equal 2 the shot, just as he was when Gerrard went 4 the far corner a couple of mins later & Downing had an effort deflected 2wards the same area of his goal.

Savic had another trick up his sleeve though as Daniel Agger forced his way into the box fr the corner. The youngster panicked, attempted 2 clear when he was nowhere near favourite 2 reach the ball & Agger bit the dust.

Referee Lee Mason awarded the spot-kick & Gerrard drove it past England team-mate Hart 2 put the visitors ahead.

Tat all this occurred inside the opening 11 mins emphasised the difficulties City were having, & no 1 epitomised them more than Mario Balotelli.

An injury doubt beforehand, the combustible Italian reacted in anger when Charlie Adam bundled him over, then tapped him on the head as he ran away fr the scene.

Balotelli belted the subsequent free-kick in2 the wall & then hobbled away 4 no discernable reason.

Aft a few more mins of relative inactivity, during which he let a straightforward pass roll out 4 a throw-in & gave a free-kick as he tried 2 make amends, Mancini decided he had seen enough.

Balotelli headed straight 4 the tunnel, bringing an end 2 another bizarre chapter in his career.

It was not until the last moments of the half tat City finally roused themselves, only 4 Samir Nasri 2 be denied by Pepe Reina & James Milner 2 fire Micah Richards' cut-back over.

On Sunday, City responded magnificently 2 a far worse half-time scoreline & almost secured a result tat would stand alongside any in tis stellar season.

But they needed the kind of lift Aleksandar Kolarov gave them against United with tat magnificent free-kick.

Tis time around, they just encounter frustration as Reina stayed on his feet long enough 2 prevent Aguero getting a shot on target aft the South American had spotted Martin Kelly about 2 play a blind backpass.

Unusually poor in a heavy defeat on the same ground 8 days ago, Reina was also in the right place 2 deny Richards' close-range header aft the stand-in City skipper had met Nasri's corner.

The disappointment was tat instead of going 4 the jugular, against opponents so lacking in verve compared 2 their thrill-a-minute efforts earlier in the season, Liverpool grew increasingly more negative.

By the time Jamie Carragher replaced Craig Bellamy 11 mins fr time 2 take up a midfield holding role, the visitors had 6 orthodox defenders on the field.

Little wonder City failed 2 make a chance of note as they continued 2 run in2 a red brick wall in wat time remained.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1008059/harry-redknapp:-emmanuel-adebayor-must-take-pay-cut-to-join-spurs?cc=4716

Redknapp staggered by Ade wages
January 14, 2012

Harry Redknapp has warned Emmanuel Adebayor he will hv 2 accept a massive pay cut if he 1s 2 stay @ Tottenham.

Adebayor has enjoyed a successful loan spell @ White Hart Lane, scoring 9 goals since his arrival in September, 2 help Spurs move up 2 3rd in the Premier League.

The former Arsenal striker, who spent 6 months on loan @ Real Madrid last season aft he was frozen out of the ManC team, is keen 2 make his move 2 Tottenham permanent, but Redknapp has warned the striker him he will hv 2 take a pay cut.

"He has done well 4 us. He has worked hard but he is on amazing money," Redknapp said.

"The other week, 1 of the lads told him tat he had not paid his £50 fine 4 being the worst player in training on a Friday morning. 1 of the lads said 2 him: 'Bloody hell, Ade, you are on 200 grand a week & u can't afford 2 pay a £50 fine!' He replied: 'Don't insult me, it's 225!'." Redknapp added: "He certainly isn't getting tat here."

With Tottenham's top earners thought 2 earn around £70,000 a week, Redknapp admits Spurs cannot afford 2 match City's spending power & faces a battle 2 keep hold of star names such as Luka Modric & Gareth Bale.

"Players play 4 a club & they enjoy being there, but if some1 comes along & offers them a contract tat could blow their current 1 out of the water, then you've got a problem," he said.

"I'd be talking rubbish if I said people wanted 2 stay @ Tottenham just becos we're playing good football. I'd be dreaming. If u 1 2 keep the best players, we hv 2 find a way of doing a deal that's near 2 what they can earn elsewhere, otherwise it will be a problem.

"If you're a top player & some1 1s 2 give u a fantastic contract, it's very hard 2 hang on 2 them."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1008809/psg-boss-carlo-ancelotti-drops-carlos-tevez-hint?cc=4716

PSG's Ancelotti drops Tevez hint
January 15, 2012

PSG boss Carlo Ancelotti has done little 2 quell speculation tat the Ligue 1 side r lining up a bid 4 Carlos Tevez, claiming the ManC striker is "a player I really like".

Tevez, 27, was on the brink of joining AC Milan tis week but a move broke down aft Rossoneri 4ward Alexandre Pato decided 2 stay @ the San Siro.

Pato had been the subject of a bid fr PSG, with Ancelotti keen 2 bring his former player 2 the Parc des Princes. But aft missing out on the Brazilian, the Parisiens boss now appears 2 hv turned his attention 2 Tevez.

"Tevez is a player I really like, he is fantastic," Ancelotti said. "If we 1 2 play @ a high level, we must act well in the market, looking 4 players who can give us a hand."

PSG r thought 2 be willing 2 meet City's £25 million askng price 4 the wantaway Argentinian, who has not played a game 4 the club since refusing 2 warm-up during a Champions League clash with Bayern Munich in October.

Inter Milan & Corinthians r also still interested in acquiring Tevez, while his representative Kia Joorabchian has claimed tat Milan may still re-enter negotiations, despite their official statements 2 the contrary.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1010642/man-city-boss-roberto-mancini-wants-%27very-quick%27-carlos-tevez-deal?cc=4716

Mancini wants 'very quick' Tevez deal
January 20, 2012

ManC boss Roberto Mancini hopes the drawn-out transfer saga over Carlos Tevez is resolved "very quickly'' as it is "impossible" 4 the rebel striker 2 return 2 Eastlands.

Tevez, who is currently AWOL in Argentina, has been linked with a move 2 AC Milan, Inter Milan & PSG during the January transfer window but despite ongoing negotiations with his agent Kia Joorabchian, no deal has yet been struck.

Serie A leaders Milan recently withdrew fr transfer talks with City as the Premier League club r demanding a sizeable transfer fee & with the options dwindling, Mancini is desperate 4 a deal 2 be done.

Mancini said: "I hope tis will finish very quickly. I don't know [the latest]. I think he has talked with PSG & Inter, but not Milan. I hope 4 him everything can finish very quickly.''

The Italian, speaking @ a press conference 2 preview Sunday's Premier League clash with Tottenham, said there was no way Tevez could return 2 City.

"Tis is impossible. Carlos doesn't 1 2 stay," he said. "It is important 4 him 2 start 2 play becos he is a football player. It is now 3 months tat he hasn't played & tis is not good 4 him.''

Meanwhile, City defender Nedum Onuoha is edging closer 2 a possible move 2 QPR.

The 25-year-old academy graduate appeared as a substitute in the Premier League leaders' win @ Wigan on Monday but has otherwise struggled 4 opportunities since returning fr a loan @ Sunderland.

Mancini said: "I don't know [the latest]. They were talking yesterday. Maybe 2day or 2morrow, it is possible.

"Nedum deserves 2 play. He is a good guy & if he stays here he will maybe play 1 or 2 games. Tat is not enough 4 a young player.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1010566/adam-johnson:-man-city-won't-hammer-spurs-this-time?cc=4716

Johnson: Spurs hammering a one off
January 19, 2012

ManC winger Adam Johnson does not believe there is any chance of his team repeating their 5-goal "humiliation'' of a resurgent Tottenham in Sunday's Premier League clash.

Spurs were walloped 3-0 by ManU & 5-1 by City in their 1st 2 league games of the season but hv since gone on a run tat has seen Harry Redknapp's side tipped 4 the title.

And, whilst Johnson is determined Premier League leaders City should maintain their perfect home record, the former Middlesbrough man accepts it will be much tougher against Tottenham tis time around.

"Tat was a 1-off,'' he said. "We humiliated them with some of the football we played. I don't think many teams would hv got close 2 us. The passing & movement was staggering.

"But the fact is they hv some top players, a squad packed with quality, & r playing much differently now.''

Still, Johnson feels there is an anxiety in the Spurs camp abt their true chances of overhauling City. Aft all, Rafael van der Vaart wouldn't hv started 2 question the Blues credentials if he felt they were no good.

"It shows we must be doing something right if people r talking abt us all the time,'' said Johnson. "If people weren't worried they would talk abt themselves, so 2 find time 2 talk abt us might show we r @ the back of their minds.''

Aft opening up a 3-point lead on ManU & a 5-point advantage over Spurs, not finishing the season as a champion would be pretty hard 4 Johnson 2 digest.

"I would be devastated if we didn't win it,'' he said. "Most of lads r not thinking abt it but we r 3 points clear, so fr tis position, it would be devastating not 2 do it.''

Yet Johnson knows tat City r not the neutrals' choice 4 a new name on the trophy.

"Maybe becos we hv spent so much $, ppl think we r trying 2 buy the title,'' he said.

"Tottenham r the team who hv nothing 2 lose & all the pressure is on United & City.

"But the pressure is on whoever is up there 2 sustain it. If Tottenham do tat, there will be massive pressure on them. In the last 4 or 5 games, when things r still tight, tat is when we can see who will hold their nerve.''

Confirmation City hv accepted a bid fr QPR 4 defender Nedum Onuoha & tat Carlos Tevez's advisor Kia Joorabchian has opened preliminary discussions with PSG indicate a reshaped Blues squad will be heading out of the transfer window.

Indeed, a double departure may offer manager Roberto Mancini the funds he 1s 2 bolster his midfield, even if the chances of landing number 1 target Daniele de Rossi fr Roma appear 2 be receding.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1010958/carlos-tevez's-psg-talks-break-down---report?cc=4716

Tevez's PSG talks break down - report
January 21, 2012

Carlos Tevez's proposed move fr ManC 2 PSG is reportedly off aft talks over personal terms broke down.

PSG appeared fav 2 sign Tevez, 27, aft the 4ward's agent, Kia Joorabchian, travelled 2 the French capital 2 hold discussions over a potential switch.

However, reports suggest the 2 parties were unable 2 come 2 an agreement, meaning Tevez's search 4 a new club remains unresolved.

PSG football director Leonardo is quoted as saying in The Sun: "We didn't get a deal with Tevez, maybe we never will."

Serie A giants Inter Milan seem 2 be Tevez's only remaining suitors, aft AC Milan recently pulled out of talks, although it remains 2 be seen if the Nerazzurri will match City's mooted asking price of £25 million.

The AWOL Tevez has not played 4 City since September following his infamous bust-up with Roberto Mancini, with the Argentine since returning 2 his homeland & his future @ Eastlands confirmed as over by his manager.

[joew2005]

http://sg.sports.yahoo.com/news/football-super-mario-sinks-spurs-city-six-clear-160148731--soccer.html

Football: Super Mario sinks Spurs as City go clear

Mario Balotelli struck a dramatic injury-time penalty as ManC overcame a brave Tottenham fightback 2 win 3-2 & take a 6-point lead @ the top of the Premier League on Sunday.

Substitute Balotelli blasted in his spot-kick deep in2 injury time aft the Italian striker had been bundled over by Ledley King 4 a clear-cut penalty.

But the City 4ward's winner was tinged with controversy aft television replays suggested he was lucky not 2 be sent off in an earlier tangle with Scott Parker where he appeared 2 stamp on the Spurs midfielder's head.

The finale capped a remarkable game which had seen Spurs recover fr 2-0 down 2 level at 2-2 with goals fr Jermain Defoe & Gareth Bale aft City had taken the lead thru Samir Nasri & Joleon Lescott.

Spurs' agony was compounded by a chance missed by Defoe moments b4 City's winner which might hv given them a 3-2 lead, the striker just failing 2 tuck away a low cross fr Bale.

The result saw City take a 6-point lead @ the top of the table although 2nd-placed ManU can reduce the deficit if they win @ Arsenal in Sunday's late match.

Assistant City manager David Platt hailed Balotelli's composure in striking the winning penalty but declined 2 comment on the player's earlier flashpoint involving Parker.

"Mario has got tat ability 2 put a penalty like tat away," Platt said. "With penalties he's got full confidence in himself, he looks @ the keeper & tries 2 make the keeper make a mistake.

"I haven't seen the incident with Balotelli so I can't comment on it until I see it. If we continue 2 amass points & carry on winning we'll be tough 2 beat, but it doesn't change anything in terms of the title race."

Spurs boss Harry Redknapp was fuming following the incident however.

"Balotelli has kicked Scott Parker in the head purposely. He's back-heeled him in the head," Redknapp said. "I don't know why u would do tat on a football pitch. It's there 4 everybody 2 see."

Aft a scrappy 1st half where neither side managed 2 get a grip on the game, the contest exploded into life shortly aft the restart with 4 goals inside 9 mins.

City drew 1st blood with a wonderfully worked opener on 56 mins, David Silva releasing Nasri with a perfectly weighted thru ball which took the French international beyond the Spurs defence.

The former Arsenal star ghosted away fr Kyle Walker & Younes Kaboul & unleashed an unstoppable 1st-time shot tat flew past Brad Friedel.

City looked 2 hv taken a stranglehold on the match within 3 mins when Lescott made it 2-0.

Edin Dzeko rose 2 flick on fr a corner & Lescott was on hand 2 bundle the ball home aft outmuscling Scott Parker near the goal-line.

But City's goal celebrations had barely subsided b4 Tottenham were handed a way back into the game aft a mistake by Stefan Savic.

A hopeful clearance forward fr Kaboul was headed back 2wards the City goal by the Montenegrin defender but fell only as far as Defoe, who coolly rounded Joe Hart b4 stroking home 2 make it 2-1.

5 mins later & Spurs were level. Aaron Lennon glided in off the left flank & laid off 2 Bale on the edge of the area, who unleashed a curling shot in2 the top corner beyond Hart.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1013554/carlos-tevez-set-to-stay-at-manchester-city?cc=4716

Tevez set to stay at City
January 27, 2012

Carlos Tevez appears set 2 remain @ ManC 4 the remainder of the season, with PSG, Inter Milan & now AC Milan all seemingly out of the running 2 sign the striker in January.

Talks with PSG & Inter Milan broke down last week, while a deal with AC Milan appears 2 hv been ruled out by the Italian club's decision 2 sign Maxi Lopez fr Catania. Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani said a decision on Tevez would be reached by 7pm on Friday, & shortly aft they registered Lopez instead.

Tevez's agent Kia Joorabchian claims tat Tevez is willing 2 wait until the summer 2 complete his long-awaited move away fr the Premier League - with PSG the most likely destination.

"If Carlos doesn't leave ManC tis winter, he doesn't rule out the possibility 2 join PSG in the summer," Joorabchian told L'Equipe. "Carlos has faith in PSG project.

"You know he had talks with Carlo Ancelotti, 1 of the best coaches in the world. He talked with (PSG director of football) Leonardo. Paris can be a possibility."

Joorabchian played down suggestions tat he had opened a Twitter account 2 discuss Tevez's future & insult the French league.

He said: "It is a fake Twitter account. I didn't tweet. Abv all, Carlos has no problem with Le Championnat (Ligue 1). In England, Argentina or Brazil, Carlos won everything. He now needs a new challenge."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/feature/_/id/1015371/ethan-dean-richards:-who-so-serious,-manchester-city?&cc=4716

Who so serious, City?
January 30, 2012

Someone always ruins the fun. Whether it's an appalling pedant whose main critique of your essay appears 2 be based on 1 line of 1 paragraph, or whether it's the person on reception who calls the police rather than answering a few simple questions abt the university's complaints procedure.

The Premier League's leading light in tis respect happens 2 be ManC, a club so intent on being grim tat it appears 2 hv hired an exclusively grey-haired coaching staff 2 prove the point.

The story of the serious club began in the summer, when Roberto Mancini substituted his substitute, Mario Balotelli, 4 not taking a money-spinning friendly in the USA seriously enough. "If u r serious, you can play 90 mins. If not, u can come & sit by me on the bench," Mancini said aft the game.

Balotelli's crime was attempting 2 score with a backheel where a tap-in would hv done; Mancini's crime was in not seeing tat Balotelli is best as a clown, & tat pre-season friendlies r an hilarious joke, which should really be laughed @ as loudly & obnoxiously as possible.

Admittedly, not having any kind of sense of humour is common enough. The famous scouse sense of humour doesn't seem keen 2 take in Andy Carroll, a £35 million joke, & Chelsea's management & fans hv not yet begun 2 join in the Fernando Torres joke-fest, despite the gold tat can be found in there. It's entirely normal tat City can't laugh @ themselves becos their best player has refused 2 play 4 them for 6 months, even if the absurdity of the situation really should hv provoked more laughs.

Where the blue 1s in Manchester hv become real mood-killing specialists is in chewing up any previous ability 2 talk abt football without actually provoking misery. The money skews it all 2 hell.

There's the extreme efficiency. 3 wins in a row was 1s gold dust 4 a team hoping 2 win the title  think Tottenham tis season: an excellent side, but not capable of the kind of consistency which avoids disappointing draws with Wolves. Now tat City hv accumulated more than 50 points tat all feels a bit silly, like turning up 2 a fancy dress party 2 find not only tat it wasn't fancy dress, but tat there was no party, becos u hv no friends.

Then there's tat City hv systematically transformed the terms of football debate into blandisms. A striker crisis used 2 mean tat u were playing your 3rd-choice goalkeeper up-front (a real false 9?) Tis week it means having only Edin Dzeko & Sergio Aguero 2 stand around looking handsome becos Balotelli is suspended 4 being an unbearable fool. It's never been fun 2 talk abt football, but City r helping 2 kill whatever it was b4. The graph is 2 far skewed 4 the words 2 mean anything anymore.

They aren't the 1st club with huge wealth, but they r the 1st 2 hv made everything around them seem so bleak. When ManU had the most money they were @ least a little reckless on the pitch: they won a Champions League in 1999 with the words "4-4-2" etched in2 their eyelids, & had Roy Keane 2 throw a punch & make things interesting whenever the goals weren't going in. City's midfielder destroyer is Gareth Barry, & whilst they hv scored goals like they just don't care all season, their attacks resemble drawn-out smutherings rather than American Psycho action.

Whilst Chelsea were spending Russian oil money they had Jose Mourinho as their manager: a man who throws out conspiracy theories & means them, a man who threw his Premier League medal into the crowd becos he doesn't need shiny things 2 know tat he's a winner. City hv Roberto Mancini in charge: a man who won 2 Serie A titles by default & whose greatest discrepancy 2 date has been waving imaginary red cards.

Something should probably be done. Although, there aren't 2 many options: the spending will continue becos UEFA's rules r made 4 breaking & the football will stay the same becos the team will win the league with room 2 spare.

Wat City needs thrown @ them is a dose of self-awareness. Ask any1 who has been thru self-awareness, 1s u see yourself as anything close 2 wat u r, it's impossible 2 either take yourself seriously or generate a positive enough image of yourself 2 do anything pro-active. Any self-awareness sufferer will tell u tat there is nothing more debilitating. In ManC's particular case, self-awareness might well eliminate the ability 2 sign any player 4 any kind of outrageous fee & would almost certainly require a re-branding process, with a new tagline: "Why don't u like us? Please like us."

The club can be got there, but it will take time. Initially, there should be a gentle yet concerted effort 2 spread chants such as "Nobody likes u. You're completely alone in the world." Fr there, we wait.

Obviously, there r risks. Self-awareness theory is tricky. Having ManC see tat they r the Premier League's fun-spoilers could create another Liverpool: whereby the realisation tat u r not well-liked creates a defensive reflex tat is the opposite 2 self-awareness. We cannot hv City go mad, declare tat they r always right & the world against them. It is imperative tat we r careful.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1017279/roberto-mancini:-no-title-pressure-at-manchester-city?cc=4716

Mancini: No title pressure at City
February 4, 2012

ManC manager Roberto Mancini says the tough times he experienced as Inter Milan boss will see him comfortably handle the pressure of the Premier League title race.

Mancini has City sitting @ the top of the table, alongside rivals ManU, though questions hv been asked of the club's ability 2 meet the lofty expectations they hv set 4 themselves. City hv led the table since October but hv been unable 2 shake the challenge of United.

Defeat @ Everton on Tuesday left them top only on goal difference & came @ the end of a disappointing January in which they also lost @ Sunderland & went out of 2 cup competitions.

Mancini remarkably accepted all the blame 4 the Goodison Park loss but, aft delivering 3 titles @ Inter Milan - including ending a 17-year scudetto drought - insists he is far fr losing his nerve.

"There doesn't exist a place like Inter Milan, where u can really be under pressure. Aft Inter Milan, u can manage every team.

"Inter Milan has a big history like United. When u r a manager there u hv pressure every day, every minute. Aft Inter Milan you can't hv pressure.

"It was really important 4 me, the experience with Inter Milan. Inter is a top team & u need 2 do everything well every day, every game.

"All the journalists & all the newspapers say the manager has made mistakes every game. It is so different fr here. So, 4 tis reason, aft tat, u can't hv pressure.''

Mancini said some weeks ago his side would be on course 4 the title if they emerged fr their tough January programme - when they would be without Yaya & Kolo Toure due 2 the African Nations Cup - unscathed.

That has not been quite the case & the situation has been compounded by a series of costly refereeing decisions & suspensions 4 Vincent Kompany & Mario Balotelli. Yet Mancini believes if his team can just hold firm their position could be alot stronger in a few weeks' time.

"We knew December & January would be crucial months becos we were losing important players 2 the ANC & could hv players injured.

"I didn't think we could hv players banned for 4 games - but tis can happen. I said if we r on the top aft January we would win the title - but not without problems. It is not easy 2 beat United.

"It is important 4 us 2 stay on the top now 4 tis difficult moment. If we r on top aft tis difficult moment, what has happened with us in January can probably happen 2 other teams. Every team has a difficult moment," he said.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1017544/prem:-man-city-beat-fulham,-arsenal-demolish-blackburn?cc=4716

City cruise as Arsenal thrash Rovers
February 4, 2012

ManC moved clear @ the top of the Premier League as they secured a 3-0 victory over Fulham.

Defeat 2 Everton in midweek allowed ManU 2 move level on points @ the top of the table but, until their arch-rivals travel 2 Chelsea on Sunday @ least, City r 1s more 3 points clear.

On a snowy evening @ Eastlands, City took the lead aft only 10 mins when Chris Baird was adjudged 2 hv brought down Adam Johnson & Sergio Aguero hammered home fr the penalty spot. Things got worse 4 Baird aft half an hour when the defender diverted a Johnson cross in2 his own net.

With City dominant, they extended their advantage on 72 mins when Aguero went on a mazy run b4 teeing up Edin Dzeko 2 slot home.

Arsenal turned up the heat on Chelsea ahead of the Blues' forthcoming encounter with ManU, moving within 2 points of their London rivals with a thumping 7-1 victory over Blackburn on Saturday.

The Gunners had not won a league game in 2012, taking 1 point fr a possible 12, but they corrected tat sequence in emphatic fashion @ the Emirates.

Blackburn, who had taken points fr away trips 2 Old Trafford & Anfield tis season, sparked their own downfall @ the Emirates, committing defensive suicide aft only 2 mins. A poor clearance allowed Theo Walcott a free run 2 the byline, where he simply squared 4 Robin van Persie 2 tap home for 1-0.

Rovers, without Christopher Samba, looked rudderless, yet the Gunners' 1st foul of the match led 2 a Blackburn equaliser. Laurent Koscielny got 2 tight 2 Anthony Modeste, & Morten Gamst Pedersen fired the resulting free-kick over the wall in2 the top corner, with Wojciech Szczesny slow 2 react.

Arsenal hit back with a rapid 2-goal salvo 2 lead 3-1 @ half-time, the Gunners' 2nd goal almost a carbon copy of the 1st, with Walcott squaring 4 Van Persie's 21st league goal of the season. Then, 2 mins later, Van Persie turned provider with an exquisite eye-of-the-needle pass 4 Oxlade-Chamberlain, who rounded Paul Robinson 4 his 1st Premier League goal.

Givet then got his marching orders 4 a 2-footed lunge on Van Persie &, 6 mins into the 2nd period, they had their 4th when Arteta slammed home fr the edge of the penalty area. A glorious run by Walcott then set up their 5th, slaloming around 3 defenders 2 roll in Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Arsenal's 6th & Van Persie's 3rd arrived just aft the hour, more dire Blackburn defending allowing the Dutchman 2 turn home Francis Coquelin's cross, & the cherry was applied 2 the cake by Henry, whose shot deflected home fr Van Persie's unselfish pass in injury-time. Defeat leaves Blackburn firmly in the bottom 3.

Wolves moved out of the bottom 3 aft they came fr behind 2 win 2-1 against 10-man QPR @ Loftus Road. Mick McCarthy has come under increasing pressure & his plight was not helped by an early goal fr Bobby Zamora, but Matthew Jarvis & Kevin Doyle turned the game on its head 4 Wolves 2 earn 3 points aft Djibril Cisse was sent off.

QPR had the luxury of spending big on a new strike partnership during the January window, & aft Cisse opened his account @ Aston Villa, Zamora did likewise early against Wolves. An attempted back-heel inadvertently fell 4 the England 4ward, who drove home the loose ball with Wolves defenders static.

Zamora's home debut went rather better than tat of Cisse, who did not even last until half-time aft he saw red 4 grabbing Roger Johnson by the throat following a dangerous challenge by the Wolves man. Reduced to 10 men, QPR promptly conceded 1 minute into the 2nd half, Jarvis bending the ball past Paddy Kenny, & then forgotten man Doyle came off the bench for a 71st-minute winner.

Victory 4 Wolves means Bolton r now in the relegation places aft they came away fr Norwich with a 2-0 defeat @ Carrow Road. Owen Coyle's men hv enjoyed an upturn in form in recent weeks, but Andrew Surman struck with 20 mins remaining b4 Anthony Pilkington added a 2nd on a day when Norwich wasted a plethora of chances.

Wigan complete the relegation spots aft they failed 2 capitalise on a woeful Tim Howard error 2 draw 1-1 with Everton @ the DW Stadium. The Latics hv only won 1 home game in the league all season, but they threatened 2 alter tat record when Howard spilled a deflected cross into his own net 4 a Phil Neville own goal.

Everton handed a debut 2 Nikica Jelavic as a 2nd-half substitute, but it was another replacement - Victor Anichebe - who earned a late point with a header 2 deny Wigan the victory.

In a battle of 2 sides holding an outside hope of European football next season, Sunderland came out on top of a controversial clash with Stoke, winning 1-0 @ the Britannia Stadium. The home side were reduced to 10 men on the stroke of half-time when referee Martin Atkinson dismissed Robert Huth, much 2 the disgust of Tony Pulis, & Sunderland took advantage thru James McClean.

In a match of little incident, it was the sending off of Huth tat raised temperatures directly b4 half-time aft his tackle on Craig Gardner was deemed dangerous.

It took until aft the hour mark 4 Sunderland 2 make their numerical advantage pay, with fans' favourite McClean finding a way past Thomas Sorensen. The 4mer Derry City man played a 1-2 with Stephane Sessegnon 2 power into the area b4 keeping his cool 2 slot into the corner.

And in the day's other game, Swansea stayed abv West Brom in the table with a 2-1 victory @ the Hawthorns. The Baggies had a strong penalty appeal 4 handball rejected in the 1st half, but they took the lead when Marc-Antoine Fortune found the net 9 mins into the 2nd period.

The lead lasted less than 2 mins, though, as Swansea found an instant response, Gylfi Sigurdsson opening his body 2 slide the ball wide of Ben Foster. Siguardsson then turned provider 4 Swansea's 2nd, laying the ball on 4 Danny Graham on the hour, although West Brom should hv equalised late on when Peter Odemwingie missed the target fr 6 yards.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1019194/mancini:-united-can-win-all-14-remaining-games?cc=4716

Mancini wary of United potential
February 8, 2012

ManC boss Roberto Mancini is of the opinion tat it is pointless 2 start comparing his side's remaining fixtures with rivals United, becos SAF's men r capable of winning every game fr now until the end of the season.

City hv established a 2-point lead over their neighbours with 14 games remaining in the Premier League season, moving ahead over the weekend when United could only draw @ Chelsea.

The league leaders' title run-in only sees them travel 2 1 of the top flight's perennial top 4 challengers, with City heading 2 Arsenal in April. By contrast United must visit Tottenham, in addition 2 an away trip 2 City themselves.

Mancini pays little attention 2 such details, though, insisting United hv the quality 2 win every game they play. As a result, the Italian only demands tat his own side do likewise.

"It is important tat we stay top & don't think abt the other teams," Mancini said ahead of tis weekend's trip 2 Aston Villa.

"ManU can win all their games - they r strong like us. For tis reason I don't think we can think abt the other teams. "It is important 2 be @ the top @ the moment - tis is very important," he said in the Daily Star.

"We will hv a difficult game in Birmingham but if we hv the same attitude tat we had on Saturday against Fulham we will do well."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1021573/carlos-tevez:-mancini-treated-me-like-a-dog?cc=4716

Tevez: Mancini treated me like a dog
February 13, 2012

ManC striker Carlos Tevez has claimed tat manager Roberto Mancini treated him ''like a dog'', although insisted tat he could be ready 2 play 4 him again in 2 weeks.

Tevez has not played 4 City since his refusal 2 follow the instructions of Mancini & warm up during the Champions League defeat by Bayern Munich in September. However he is preparing 2 return on Tuesday 2 help with their Premier League title charge & claimed it was becos he wanted 2 win back the support of the fans.

"Yes, it's a decision I hv taken 2 win back the supporters since wat happened against Bayern," he said in an interview on Fox Sports. "I believe they were misinformed. They weren't told the facts, so tat when they were told tat I didn't 1 2 play, they naturally turned against me.

"If a player doesn't 1 2 play 4 the club tat pays their wages it's only natural 4 them 2 turn against that player. I couldn't understand wat was going on. I swore, like any player would. I gave everything 2 tat club & when I saw them burning my shirt, or hurling insults @ me, it really hurt. I gave everything 2 tat club & wat I love abv all is 2 play football."

Tevez has always insisted tat he never refused 2 come on & went on 2 explain his version of the night's events, laying the blame firmly @ Mancini's feet.

"I was in a bad mood & when he [Mancini] brings on De Jong & takes off Dzeko & we're losing 2-0, I thought it was defensive substitution so I decided 2 sit back on the bench.

"I'd already warmed up for 10 mins & he has tis attitude tat he would rather lose 2-0 instead of 4-0, so I sat down &, @ the same time, Dzeko comes off & is really angry & has a go @ Mancini. He then sees the tunnel is closed & so he has 2 sit down next 2 him. And they start 2 hv an arguement.

"Dzeko was speaking Bosnian & Mancini was swearing @ him in Italian, so it was a real mess. I go & sit down, but he [Mancini] doesn't see me becos he is having tis discussion. But then he turns around & sees me & u can imagine wat happens. He is in the middle of an argument, so then he tells me 2 keep on warming up & treats me like a dog.

"When he spoke 2 me in tat tone of voice, I said 'no, I'm not going out'. I was willing 2 play, but the coach was in such a foul mood becos he had tat argument with Dzeko, he started on me as well. He started swearing @ me, so tat was him, becos I was very calm. I was just sitting on the bench & u can see fr the footage tat I was calm & just talking with Zabalata. Mancini said some horrible things 2 me."

Mancini has hinted tat Tevez would be welcomed back, but the Argentine appeared cautious over his reunion with his manager.

"If it's true tat Mancini said he will welcome me back if I'm fit, then I like those quotes," Tevez added. "But if he only said it 4 the media...

"Mancini's position got stronger when Kun Aguero arrived. I don't know if he would hv done the things he did if tis was last season. Last season we almost exchanged punches! But he never said anything. He got a better team tis season & felt like making the decision. Now tat I hv a cooler head, I understand City fans. Back in the heat of the moment I didn't. I did alot of things 4 City.

"To be insulted by fans aft wat happened in Munich was something I didn't deserve. They could hv kicked me out of the club without saying all the things they said. Deal with the situation in a different way. I think that's where Mancini got things wrong. If we had a problem, we could hv sorted it out in a different way. Last season, aft a home game vs. Newcastle, we almost hit each other in the dressing room. But we spoke the following day. Mancini is a winner. And I'm a winner 2. None of us like 2 lose."

The striker also insisted tat he can be ready 2 return in 2 weeks' time.

"I hv been training on my own. I know I can be back on the pitch in 2 weeks. I'm willing 2 play," he said. "There's no need 4 City 2 make me hv 2 training sessions a day. I'll do it myself. I picture myself going back on the pitch & I know I hv 2 play better than I ever did."

Speaking on Sky Sports News, agent Kia Joorabchian claimed Tevez's thoughts abt the incident in Munich gave a misleading impression of his current frame of mind & claimed the player was determined 1s again 2 prove himself an asset for City, if given the chance.

2 aid the situation, it is believed Tevez will drop his appeal 2 the Premier League against a 6-week club fine, totalling around £1.2 million.

Joorabchian said: ''He's saying he will get himself ready as the club hv requested him 2 do, becos the club hv said Carlos coming back can only be an asset 2 them.

''I've spoken 2 the club 2day, I've spoken 2 the club regularly on a daily basis & I think every1 agrees tat fr a football point of view Carlos can only be an asset.

''Now him & Mancini hv obviously managed 2 resolve issues. Wat he had explained in his interview is how he felt back then. I think tat the club & Carlos r taking tis in a very positive way.

''He has alot of repairs 2 do with the fans & he realises tat & he has said tat he's ready 2 apologise if he's done something wrong. And he's said tat he sincerely never felt that he was doing something wrong @ the time, & he understands tat his actions may not hv implied tat.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1021793/tevez-back-in-england-for-crunch-talks?cc=4716

Tevez back in England for crunch talks
February 14, 2012

Controversial striker Carlos Tevez arrived back in the UK on Tuesday & headed straight 2 ManC's training ground ahead of showdown talks over his future.

Tevez has not played 4 City since the infamous Champions League bust-up @ Bayern Munich in September, when he was accused of refusing 2 warm up, & has been in Argentina without City's permission since November 7.

The unsettled 28-year-old failed 2 secure a move away fr Eastlands during the January transfer window, with proposed moves 2 AC Milan, Inter Milan & PSG all falling thru, & he is now looking 2 resurrect his career @ City.

Tevez reported back @ City's Carrington training ground on Tuesday afternoon 2 undergo a fitness test but it is thought he will not meet with manager Roberto Mancinii until Wednesday.

He made 1 final dig @ his manager b4 leaving Argentina though, claiming he had been "treated like a dog".

The City boss initially said Tevez was "finished" @ the club as a result of his behaviour in Munich, but has recently appeared open 2 the possibility of the striker playing 4 the Citizens again.

Mancini, however, has previously stated Tevez would need 2 apologise 2 be considered 4 selection.

Tevez said in an interview with Fox Sports in Argentina tat he might be willing 2 say sorry. "I do not think I was wrong, but if they [the club] think so I apologise," he said. "I m ready 2 return, 2 win & do the best 4 the club's shirt."

There hv also been suggestions Tevez could drop his appeal 2 the Premier League against his fine of 6 weeks' wages - thought 2 be around £1.2 million - 2 ease his reintegration.

Tevez also said in the interview he would be ready 2 play in 2 weeks' time but City r thought likely 2 assess his fitness b4 putting any timescale on a possible return.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1022427/roberto-mancini-denies-treating-tevez-like-?cc=4716

Mancini denies treating Tevez like "dog"
February 15, 2012

Roberto Mancini has denied tat Carlos Tevez was "treated like a dog" by the ManC manager.

Speaking in Lisbon ahead of City's Europa League clash with Porto on Thursday night, Mancini said he was keen 2 focus on the match ahead but did address Tevez's recent comments.

Tevez tis week ended a self-imposed 3-month exile when returning fr Argentina, having been found guilty by the club of refusing 2 warm-up during City's Champions League match against Bayern Munich in September.

The erstwhile striker, despite saying he wanted 2 get back in2 the City side, arrived back in England straight aft giving a lengthy interview on Argentinian television hitting out @ his treatment by Mancini.

"I don't 1 2 answer your question becos the game is more important than tis," Mancini said. "But I answer tis question & then no more, becos we hv tis game.

"It is an important game against a top club like Porto. I totally disagree with Carlos, wat he said, becos I never treated him badly. Maybe the opposite, I treated him 2 well, always."

Tevez is not with the City team in Portugal as he begins a training regime designed 2 get him back up 2 match fitness. He has not been registered in City's European squad. He & adviser Kia Joorabchian markedly failed 2 land a new club in the January transfer window, having given up on £9 million in wages & bonuses aft leaving Manchester in October.



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1022093/tevez-returns-to-manchester-but-no-mancini-apology?cc=4716

Tevez returns but no Mancini apology
February 14, 2012

Carlos Tevez arrived @ the ManC's Carrington training ground on Valentine's evening just as his manager Roberto Mancini had left 4 the day, leaving the pair's dispute unresolved.

ESPNsoccernet has been told Tevez arrived @ City's training complex around 15.55pm, shortly aft Mancini had left 4 the day, & spent an hour with the club doctor.

The doctor assessed Tevez's fitness, but there is no indication, as yet, tat tis is a prelude 2 the striker playing again. Nor has there been any suggestion tat Mancini deliberately snubbed Tevez's long awaited return.

"The manager would not hv been expected 2 be @ the training ground tat late," a source told ESPNsoccernet.

There was no face-2-face meeting, although it is unclear if the pair hv spoken on the phone, or thru 3rd parties, since Tevez landed back in the UK.

During their initial dispute back in October, Mancini unexpectedly invited Tevez 2 his home when it seemed the pair would never speak again. There, the manager is believed 2 hv demanded an apology only 4 Tevez 2 refuse point blank.

An apology seems 2 be the deal-breaker & as yet there is no official sign of it - yet the pair r getting closer 2 sorting out their differences.

The plan is tat Tevez & Mancini will meet up on Wednesday morning, b4 the manager leaves with the team 4 City's Europa League match with FC Porto.

There is an appeal lodged with the Premier League against Tevez's initial punishment, despite suggestions tat the player's camp will drop it, & ESPNsoccernet can reveal tat City r not softening on their side on tat front. Tevez has lost over £9 million in wages & bonuses thru his self-imposed exile.

City hv been requesting Tevez's return in writing since he went AWOL & there has been no sudden abt turn by the football club. Indeed, the club r not pushing 2 hv him back 2 help their league campaign.

He is back in Manchester becos aft he & his advisors had agreed a deal with AC Milan, they assumed City would drop their price or loan him out @ the death of January's transfer window. The collapse of tat deal left Tevez without football, & without wages either.

"We were not prepared 2 do tat," said a highly-placed City source. "Tevez has nowhere 2 go & tat is why he is back."

The club's Abu Dhabi owners hv made it clear tat if City didn't get fair market value 4 him, then he would be required 2 honour his contract. Tat runs out in the summer of 2014, so Tevez's waiting game could conceivably last until then.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1022571/man-city-boss-roberto-mancini-urges-mario-balotelli-to-behave?cc=4716

Mancini urges Balotelli to behave
February 16, 2012

ManC manager Roberto Mancini has pleaded with Mario Balotelli 2 control his on-field behaviour 4 the remainder of the season as the striker prepares 2 make his return fr a 4-match suspension.

Balotelli, slapped with his most recent ban 4 stamping on Tottenham's Scott Parker, is expected 2 feature alongside Edin Dzeko & David Silva in a 3-pronged attack 4 City when they face Europa League title holders FC Porto on Thursday.

Mancini revealed he has confronted Balotelli over his discipline so tat the 21-year-old can remain part of the club's challenge 4 silverware, both domestically & on the continent.

"I hv spoken 2 Mario 2 weeks ago. I said: 'Pls, we hv 13 games 2 play [in the league] as well as the Europa League - try 2 hv good behaviour on the pitch & think 2 only play football.

"Mario is an important player 4 us, he has a good quality. He can play with Edin [Dzeko], with Sergio [Aguero]. I think if his head will be OK in the next 2 months, he will be an important player.

"It's difficult 2 find a good definition 4 him. We know tat Mario is a fantastic player. He's young, sometimes he will do some mistakes but 4 tis reason, if he can keep his composure 4 the next months, he will be an important player 4 us, in the Europa League & the Premier League.

"It's my opinion tat @ tis moment all the players will be important. It's important 4 me 2 hv all players betw now & the end of the season. If we 1 2 get 2 the final of the Europa League or win the Premier League, it's important 2 hv all players ready & available 4 all games. Mario is 1 of them. Now we'll hv 3 strikers 4 2morrow, I think tat's a good thing 4 me & 4 tis game."

Meanwhile, Yaya & Kolo Toure hv flown directly 2 Portugal aft competing in the African Cup of Nations final, which the Ivory Coast lost 2 Zambia on penalties. But Mancini remains unsure whether the pair will take part in the Europa League encounter, saying: "I don't know. B4 I need 2 speak 2 them & 2morrow it will be decided. They arrived here tis morning."

[FitPartner]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1019194/mancini:-united-can-win-all-14-remaining-games?cc=4716

Mancini wary of United potential
February 8, 2012

ManC boss Roberto Mancini is of the opinion tat it is pointless 2 start comparing his side's remaining fixtures with rivals United, becos SAF's men r capable of winning every game fr now until the end of the season.

City hv established a 2-point lead over their neighbours with 14 games remaining in the Premier League season, moving ahead over the weekend when United could only draw @ Chelsea.

The league leaders' title run-in only sees them travel 2 1 of the top flight's perennial top 4 challengers, with City heading 2 Arsenal in April. By contrast United must visit Tottenham, in addition 2 an away trip 2 City themselves.

Mancini pays little attention 2 such details, though, insisting United hv the quality 2 win every game they play. As a result, the Italian only demands tat his own side do likewise.

"It is important tat we stay top & don't think abt the other teams," Mancini said ahead of tis weekend's trip 2 Aston Villa.

"ManU can win all their games - they r strong like us. For tis reason I don't think we can think abt the other teams. "It is important 2 be @ the top @ the moment - tis is very important," he said in the Daily Star.

"We will hv a difficult game in Birmingham but if we hv the same attitude tat we had on Saturday against Fulham we will do well."

Obviously Mancini is new to BPL if he consider the trip to Spurs is a difficult one. Didn't he know Spurs is the B team, the feeder team?

Good players will sell to A team, matches also let A team win

[joew2005]

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/18022012/58/premier-league-papers-city-united-gaitan-battle.html

Premier League - Papers: City and United in Gaitan battle
Sat, 18 Feb 2012

ManC & ManU r on a collision course as both clubs try 2 sign Benfica star Nicolas Gaitan, according 2 2day’s back pages.

The 23-year-old Argentine is 1 of the hottest properties in Europe, & United, who hv done much of their shopping fr Portuguese clubs in recent times, hv been watching him closely, the Daily Mirror reports.

But it is cross-town rivals City who r now thought 2 be in pole position 2 sign him, having reportedly spoken 2 Benfica officials abt a possible transfer.

They r believed 2 be preparing a £35m bid, which matches Gaitan’s release clause – a sum which would be beyond Ferguson unless he sold players in the summer, the Mirror claims.

There’s better news 4 ManU though in the Daily Mail, with reports tat Nemanja Vidic is ahead of schedule in his recovery fr injury & might even feature b4 the end of the season.

The Sun report more embarrassing news 4 Arsenal, with 2 striking back-page stories.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, whose AC Milan side tormented the Gunners in their midweek Champions League clash, has told star striker Robin van Persie 2 quit the Emirates.

“Football is all abt winning,” Ibrahimovic said. “If u don’t win u 1 2 go. I don’t know Robin personally but I remember him fr Holland & wat a talent he was – now he is complete.

“I don’t know wat he is thinking but I know wat I would do.”

And 2 add insult 2 injury, the same paper also reports tat Arsenal players r frustrated with manager Arsene Wenger becos they aren’t practising defending during training sessions.

There’s plenty more in the press 2day abt how wonderful Harry Redknapp is, & the Daily Star sums the coverage up best with the news tat Redknapp only 1s 2 think abt the England job 1s the season is over.

“Call me in the summer – loyal Harry’s message 2 FA’ the Star reports – skilfully finding loyalty in angling 4 a new job in 4 months.

The Express add tat the Tottenham manager believes the job must be done on a full-time basis fr the start.

In transfer whispers the Mirror link Arsenal with a bid 4 Blackburn’s Junior Hoilett in the summer – but Spurs, Newcastle & Liverpool r all keeping tabs on the winger as well.

Tottenham r still keen on Ajax defender Jan Vertonghen, who could set them back as much as £10m (Mirror).

And Neil Warnock is pictured sitting down with Ken Bates as speculation mounts he will be confirmed as the new manager of Leeds United (The Sun) – but Huddersfield r also keen on bringing him back 2 Yorkshire (Mirror).

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1024829/manchester-city-boss-roberto-mancini-sidesteps-carlos-tevez-talk?cc=4716

Mancini sidesteps Tevez talk
February 21, 2012

ManC boss Roberto Mancini has again refused 2 be drawn on the subject of Carlos Tevez's role @ the club.

There appeared 2 hv been a thawing of relations betw club & player when it emerged Tevez was on his way back 2 City - having been holed up in Argentina since his controversial falling-out with officials last year.

However, on the eve of his return 2 England, Tevez gave an interview on Argentinian television where he claimed he had been "treated like a dog" by Mancini.

The City boss took issue @ the comments & Tevez has been training alone upon his return 2 Carrington.

Mancini is preparing his side 4 a Europa League clash with Porto & he did not 1 2 talk abt Tevez.

"I m here 2 talk abt Porto," he said when asked abt Tevez's role.

And when asked if a meeting was planned with Tevez, Mancini said: "There is a meeting 2morrow, against Porto."



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1024756/diego-maradona:-man-city-boss-roberto-mancini-not-daring-enough?cc=4716

Maradona: Mancini 'not daring enough'
February 21, 2012

Argentina great Diego Maradona believes ManC may stumble in the Premier League title race becos manager Roberto Mancini is "2 defensive".

Maradona is in Manchester visiting son-in-law Sergio Aguero & offered his opinion on City, who sit 2 points clear of ManU. The 51-year-old says tat although the league leaders hv scored 64 goals in 25 Premier League matches tis term, he remains unconvinced given the array of attacking players @ Mancini's disposal.

"My heart says ManC, but I believe Mancini with all the players he's got, is not daring enough," he told Sport360. "He's a bit 2 defensive. Maybe becos he is Italian."

Maradona, though, is still hopeful Aguero can help City lift the Premier League trophy aloft @ season's end as United continue their title challenge.

"As an organisation, & with their style of play, I think United r more aggressive. But if I hv 2 support 1 team, I'll be a fan 4 my son-in-law."

The Al-Wasl coach revealed he wanted Aguero 2 remain in La Liga, but insists his move 2 City last summer was of benefit 2 the striker's career aft Atletico Madrid refused 2 listen 2 Maradona's advice.

"I think 2day, watching fr my home in Dubai, seeing Aguero in Madrid would make 4 much more interesting matches than Kun Aguero @ ManC," Maradona said.

"I talked 2 the president of Atletico Madrid & I told him tat Aguero had amazing potential, & tat he should surround him with good players so tat Atletico could make history with him. As u know he did not listen 2 me. He didn't listen. He sold Kun & I, as his father-in-law, think he chose well."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=334897&cc=4716

4-star City ease through

ManC produced a strong finish 2 power in2 the last 16 of the Europa League with a 4-0 win @ the expense of 10-man holders Porto.

Sergio Aguero set up victory by extending City's 2-1 1st-leg lead aft just 18 seconds @ the rainswept Etihad Stadium b4 hitting the bar later in the 1st half.

Edin Dzeko came off the bench 2 add a 2nd aft 76 mins b4 the sending off of Rolando preceded further goals fr David Silva & David Pizarro in the closing minutes.

Although the decisive goals came late, the result did not flatter the Barclays Premier League leaders.

The Portuguese champions may hv controlled the game @ times but they lacked a cutting edge & Roberto Mancini's side always looked more threatening in attack.

The 5pm kick-off may hv been problematic 4 some fans but the players raced out of the blocks 2 make the perfect start.

Aguero, who struck 6 mins fr time last week, started where he left off as he was played thru by Yaya Toure & slipped the ball low past Helton.

City looked comfortable 4 their lead & could hv had a 2nd when Silva beat the defence with a brilliant ball 4 Toure.

Helton rushed out of goal 2 meet the Ivory Coast midfielder on the edge of the box & spread his body 2 block his shot.

Porto enjoyed some spells possession but struggled 2 create meaningful chances until 1st-leg goalscorer Silvestre Varela found space 2 test Joe Hart.

Joao Moutinho curled a free-kick over as Porto continued 2 look 4 a way back into the tie.

Aguero was unlucky not 2 score a 2nd as he seized upon a long ball & headed it past the advancing Helton.

It left him @ a tight angle wide on the left but his chip was almost perfect as it dropped on 2 the bar.

Porto again showed composure in possession but did not threaten much around the box, although Lucho Gonzalez fired over.

The powerful Hulk tried 2 create problems but drove a cross across goal fr a good position.

City spurned another chance 2 extend their advantage as they broke fr deep & Aguero released Toure.

Toure appeared 2 hv a good shooting opportunity but he checked back as cover arrived & Aguero drove wide.

Nicolas Otamendi missed the target as Porto went close just b4 the break.

The game remained open as the 2nd half got under way with Aguero dribbling into the Porto box 2 tee up Silva but Maicon slid in 2 deny the Spaniard.

At the other end Gonzalez prodded an effort narrowly wide fr 18 yards.

Porto then pieced together a nice passing move & Maicon drove the ball in2 the box but the offside flag was raised b4 James Rodriguez turned it into the net.

Hulk almost broke thru as Porto attacked again but Samir Nasri got a foot in @ a vital moment.

City again pressed 4 another with Silva winning a corner fr Helton with a powerful drive, b4 play was held up aft Otamendi was accidentally kicked in the face by team-mate Maicon.

City put the result beyond any doubt as substitute Dzeko, who had been on the field just 7 mins, was slipped in by a fine ball fr Aguero & finished with confidence.

It quickly became a double blow 4 Porto as Rolando, who had been booked early in the game, was shown a 2nd yellow card as City celebrated - perhaps 4 protesting 2 much 4 offside - & left the field.

City then went on 2 wrap up the game in style as Silva added a 3rd aft 84 mins aft substitutes Pizarro & Dzeko combined 2 provide a tap-in.

Another followed 2 mins later as Pizarro again linked up with Dzeko & broke in2 the box 2 slam past Helton 4 his 1st goal 4 the club.



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1025527/roberto-mancini-will-meet-carlos-tevez-on-thursday?cc=4716

Mancini welcomes back repentant Tevez
February 22, 2012

Roberto Mancini has told ESPN tat Carlos Tevez could play 4 ManC again in "2 or 3 weeks" now tat the controversial striker has apologised.

Tevez has not played 4 City since he was accused of refusing 2 warm up during the Champions League defeat @ Bayern Munich on September 27 & subsequently fled 2 Argentina for 3 months aft a bust up with the club.

But aft failing 2 secure move away fr City in the January transfer window a repentant Tevez returned 2 Manchester last week & in a statement released by City on Tuesday night said that he was "sincerely & unreservedly'' sorry 4 his actions.

Mancini, @ the time, said Tevez was "finished'' @ the club. However, aft Wednesday night's 4-0 defeat of Porto booked City's place in the last 16 of the Europa League, Mancini said Tevez would be available 1s he deems him match fit.

"1 week aft Munich I called him 2 my house & said, 'Carlos, apologise 2 every1 & it's finished'," Mancini told ESPN. "I hv no problem. I think he needs 2 to 3 weeks 2 train, then some games.''

On the victory over Europa League champions Porto, Mancini continued: "We played a good game. Maybe 4-0 was 2 much but it was important we went into the 2nd stage. Porto had lots of possession & it's not easy 2 play against them.''

The Italian was pleased 2 see David Pizarro come on & score his 1st goal 4 the club.

Mancini continued: "I know him very well, he was with me @ Inter. He came on for 20 mins, played very well & scored a goal. His experience can be very important 4 us.''

On their future prospects in the competition, Mancini added: "We 1 2 get 2 the final. It will be difficult but 4 tis reason I will play the best team, although we can make some changes every game.''

City captain Vincent Kompany believes he & his team-mates showed they can win the competition.

A 1st-minute goal fr Sergio Aguero set City on their way 2 seal a 6-1 aggregate triumph, with late strikes fr Edin Dzeko, David Silva & Pizarro inflicting further damage @ the Etihad .

Kompany added on ESPN: "It was a great victory. I think 2day showed how serious we r abt tis competition. 4-nil is a great result against the holders of the competition fr last season. I didn't think we were @ our best but we did exactly wat we needed 2

Midfielder Yaya Toure said: "I think the game 2day was fantastic. "2 score early was very important 4 us.''

Defeat with the Ivory Coast in the African Nations Cup final was a jolt 4 Toure, & has increased his hunger 4 a trophy with City.

"It's very important 4 me,'' he said. "We lost that final against a good team. It's very important 4 us 2 win something tis year.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1026433/roberto-mancini:-every-game-is-like-a-champs-lge-final?cc=4716

Mancini: Every game is a UCL final
February 24, 2012

ManC manager Roberto Mancini has told his side 2 treat every game in their title run-in like a Champions League final.

The Premier League leaders resume their championship quest following their latest European exploits as struggling Blackburn visit the Etihad Stadium. City hv a 2-point advantage with 13 games remaining & Mancini is braced 4 a stern test of resolve in the season's closing months.

The Italian said: ''It is impossible 2 be complacent. Every game is like a Champions League final & 4 tis reason we need good concentration.

''Now we hv a game against Blackburn on Saturday & I think every game fr now until the end will be difficult. When u play against a squad playing against relegation, it can be more difficult.

''Blackburn won away against ManU & we know they r a good team, they r strong on the counter-attack. They hv been playing very well in the last 2 or 3 weeks. They r playing 2 get away fr the bottom.''

City's title challenge is boosted by the return of inspirational midfielder Yaya Toure fr the African Nations Cup. Toure has not played in the Premier League since the victory over Liverpool on January 3, but returned last week 2 feature in both legs of the Europa League win over Porto.

During his absence, City went out of both domestic cup competitions & suffered a disappointing league defeat @ Everton.

Mancini said: ''Yaya is a high-quality player, he used 2 play 4 Barcelona & he is used 2 playing 2 win every game. I think his mentality is very strong & tat can help all the team. But we hv other important players & I think it is a good mix.''

Carlos Tevez has returned fr his self-imposed exile in Argentina & apologised 4 his conduct in recent months. Mancini has accepted the apology, opening up the possibility of a 1st-team return, but 1st the striker needs an estimated 2 or 3 weeks 2 recover match fitness.

City r determined 2 ensure the huge coverage surrounding the issue does not prove a distraction & Tevez, who has not played since September, will only feature again when ready.

1st-team coach David Platt said: ''He still has abit of work 2 do in terms of preparations b4 he is ready 2 go on 2 the pitch. Tat is probably not wat people 1 2 hear.

''There will be a clamour 4 a Carlos Tevez story but tat is not the important thing. The important thing is ManC. We hv 2 try & temper the clamour. It will take its own course & its own action.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1025949/man-city%27s-silva-and-lescott:-carlos-tevez-can-be-difference?cc=4716

City players welcome Tevez return
February 23, 2012

ManC duo David Silva & Joleon Lescott both believe Carlos Tevez can be the difference betw success & failure in the club's bid 2 win the Premier League tis season, & they hv urged the fans 2 get behind the Argentinian.

Tevez has been largely AWOL 4 the last 3 months, leaving the country aft a fallout over his apparent refusal 2 warm up against Bayern Munich. He then angled 4 a move away fr City in January, but no transfer materialised.

As a result, Tevez has chosen 2 return 2 Eastlands, where he is now undergoing a fitness regime designed 2 see him ready 4 action in 2 weeks. And in Silva's eyes, tat is great news 4 City.

"I just saw him tis morning 4 the 1st time @ training. I just wished him all the very best b4 he left. He was a very important player 4 us. If he is back with us, then perfect," the Spaniard commented.

"Carlos is a great player & if he is physically fit he would be a very good player 2 hv. But it will be down 2 the coaches & the technical team 2 decide who plays & who doesn't."

City hv Sergio Aguero, Edin Dzeko & Mario Balotelli as 4ward options, but Silva insists it is important 2 hv a 4th as they attack the Premier League & Europa League. "It is very important 2 hv those 4 great strikers with us," Silva said. "It makes it easier 4 the people playing behind them.

We all know they r great players & it could be an important factor 2 help us win the title race." Tevez's decision 2 walk out on City will likely hv prompted sections of the club's fanbase 2 question the player's loyalty.

His absence has also caused an unwanted distraction 4 boss Roberto Mancini, but Lescott insists the situation has 2 be forgotten. "No-1 here sees Carlos as a disruption," Lescott said.

"If we can all get 2gether & push in the same direction I m sure it's a positive 4 the club. With us, Carlos has never been an issue, & we r confident tat if he does get his chance, he will score alot of goals.

"It would be a bit harsh [if he is booed]. You need 2 appreciate wat Carlos has done 4 the club over the last 2 years. Obviously Carlos hasn't been here 4 the last few months but tat's an issue the club hv dealt with.

We feel tat every1 involved has dealt with it correctly & the players hv got on with the job in hand. "We r still performing in the Premier League & I don't see how it will affect us in the final run-in.

There hv been moments when we could hv done with him - he is a quality player, so even when we were winning no-1 wrote him off & thought 'We don't need him anymore.'

"More often than not we hv won games tis season, so it is no judgment on the manager's team selection. Now he is back & involved I m sure there will be alot more fear in opposition teams."



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1025286/samir-nasri:-we-need-carlos-tevez%27s-quality-to-succeed?cc=4716

Nasri: We need Tevez's quality
February 22, 2012

Samir Nasri has called on his ManC team-mates 2 welcome Carlos Tevez back into the fold following his apology on Tuesday.

Tevez attempted 2 build bridges @ City when he released a statement expressing regret @ his actions, having gone AWOL in Argentina for 3 months following a bust-up with manager Roberto Mancini.

It is not known whether Mancini will now allow Tevez back into the 1st-team squad - particularly aft he accused Mancini of treating him like a dog during an outspoken television interview - but the Italian boss has intimated in the past tat an apology would be a step in the right direction 4 the striker.

City r in Europa League action against Porto on Wednesday - a game which Tevez is ineligible 4, as he has not been registered 4 the competition. City won the 1st leg 2-1 in Portugal.

And Nasri feels tat Tevez has an integral part 2 play as City bid 2 get their hands on the 2 major trophies still available 2 them. "I think he is an important player 4 us, & [would be] 4 any team in Europe becos he has quality ... We need his quality 2 win the league & Europa League," Nasri said.

The 24-year-old Frenchman is also determined 2 prove his move 2 ManC was not a mistake. He has completed the full 90 mins just 9 times 4 City but said: "It is always tough when you change & go 2 another team.

"Now I m starting 2 be settled & u will see a better Samir every week. You hv 2 work when u don't feel well & u haven't produced wat every1 expects fr u. But I was always confident abt my quality & u will see tat.

"At Arsenal I was playing a little bit higher with 3 strikers & 3 midfielders. Here we play 4-4-2 so u hv 2 work more defensively. But tat doesn't matter. I hv understood tat & I 1 2 show every1 tat it wasn't a mistake."

City r in a good position with 2 away goals tat could prove crucial but Mancini said he will not leave anything 2 chance.

"Every game is dangerous but it is better 2 start fr 2-1," the Italian said. "We know tat Porto is a top team & we should play like it's 0-0. 4 us every game is serious, we 1 2 win all the games, sometimes it's possible sometimes not. But 4 us it's [the Europa League] a serious competition."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1026592/sergio-aguero:-carlos-tevez-key-to-manchester-city-title-chances?cc=4716

Aguero: Tevez key to title chances
February 25, 2012

Sergio Aguero believes the return of strike partner Carlos Tevez 2 be an important part of ManC's tilt 4 silverware tis season.

Tevez has apologised 2 manager Roberto Mancini 4 his behaviour following his refusal 2 warm up during a Champions League clash in Munich last year, leaving the Argentine available 4 selection. Tevez left 4 his homeland w/o the club's consent aft the incident, & Aguero says the arrival of his compatriot will give City the edge over 2nd-placed ManU.

"I prefer things with him in the squad becos he is a very important player 4 us," Aguero told The Sun. "I spoke a few times with him while he was absent. He is a super professional & it was up 2 him 2 decide abt his future.

"I m happy he is back. I think his return could be important 4 us in the decisive period of tis season. He has been 1 of the best 4wards in world football over the last few years. City need all the players we hv 2 try & win titles. It's difficult becos in the Premier League opponents do not concede ground easily.

"The race 4 the title is in our own hands. If we maintain our rhythm I don't think ManU can pass us. And 2 win both the Premier & the Europa league will fulfil all my dreams."

Aguero has 15 goals 4 the season, & will be looking 2 close the gap on the Premier League's leading marksman Robin van Persie when City take on Blackburn tis Saturday. However, the 23-year-old claims he is not seeking personal glory in his 1st season in English football aft making a switch fr Atletico Madrid last summer.

"If I'm honest I didn't believe I would score so many goals as I adapted 2 playing in England. The figures r fantastic & I m very happy.

"A race with RVP? It is not easy but my dream is 2 win the Premier League title 1st," said Aguero.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=318200&cc=4716

City ease to victory

ManC's 3 top scorers were all on target as the Premier League leaders overpowered Blackburn 2 move 5 points clear @ the top of the table in a 3-0 win.

In the week Carlos Tevez was welcomed back 2 training, leading strikers Mario Balotelli, Sergio Aguero & Edin Dzeko reminded manager Roberto Mancini of their talents in a 1-sided win @ the Etihad Stadium.

Blackburn barely mustered a shot on goal as they were completely outplayed & their defeat might hv been embarrassing but 4 a string of superb saves by Paul Robinson.

Robinson was most impressive early on & did brilliantly 2 keep the scoreline @ 1-0, aft Balotelli's strike, @ the interval.

Yet his mistake led 2 Aguero's 2nd & he could not prevent City's inevitable stroll 2 victory.

While Balotelli, Aguero & Dzeko celebrate scoring 52 goals betw them tis term, relegation-threatened Rovers must regroup quickly 4 their battle ahead.

The evening was all abt City, 4 whom Balotelli, sporting a mohican, made an impressive return 2 domestic action aft a month away fr it due 2 a 4-game ban.

Yaya Toure's return 2 the Premier League 4 the 1st time since January 3, due 2 African Nations Cup duty with Ivory Coast, was also welcomed as City set themselves up 4 their final title push.

Balotelli joined Aguero up front & Adam Johnson came in 4 Samir Nasri in a reshaped attack.

Blackburn handed a debut 2 new signing Marcus Olsson, who joined his brother Martin in the team, while Radosav Petrovic featured. Aft illness during the week, Steven N'Zonzi did not enter the fray until the 70th minute.

Yet aside fr Robinson, little was seen of any Rovers players as City dominated fr start 2 finish.

The hosts gave an early warning of their intentions as Balotelli tested Robinson with just a minute gone.

David Silva & Johnson combined on the right b4 the England winger's low cross was turned sharply @ goal by Balotelli, but Robinson saved low 2 his left.

Johnson created space 2 shoot fr distance but Robinson parried & the ball was hacked clear.

Robinson was in action again moments later as a Balotelli free-kick took a slight deflection off the wall & needed 2 be pushed away.

Blackburn finally cracked on the half-hour as City counter-attacked with Silva releasing Aleksandar Kolarov on the left.

The Serbian powered forward & pulled the ball back 4 Balotelli who, 6 yards out, instinctively clipped it past Robinson @ the near post.

He celebrated by unveiling a T-shirt with a message telling his girlfriend Rafaella he loves her - a rather more modest offering than the previous 'Why Always Me?', which referred 2 his notorious madcap, off-field antics.

Blackburn wanted a penalty as they made a rare attack moments later.

Morten Gamst Pedersen was shaping 2 shoot when he went down under a Nigel de Jong challenge but referee Mike Jones played on.

Despite being beaten, Robinson continued 2 impress, saving another sharp effort fr Silva.

There was better 2 come fr the former England goalkeeper as he palmed away a backheeled Vincent Kompany volley @ a corner & he deserved the luck as Toure put the rebound wide.

Toure went close again just b4 the interval but again fired wide while Aguero shot across goal fr a tight angle.

City showed no let-up as the 2nd half began with Toure powering 4ward 2 tee up Johnson, whose shot was deflected wide.

The seemingly inevitable 2nd goal came aft 52 mins as Robinson showed his fallibility.

The goalkeeper spilled a Silva corner & Aguero was on hand 2 blast in on the half-volley.

City suffered a moment of alarm just b4 the hour as Toure landed awkwardly attempting 2 cross & Aguero also pulled up.

Both required treatment but were able 2 continue.

Balotelli left the field 2 a standing ovation with 12 mins remaining, moments aft taking a knock in an aerial challenge in the area & requiring treatment.

His replacement, Dzeko, wasted little time in making an impression as he headed the 3rd 2 mins later.

Kolarov found space down the left & whipped in a superb cross 4 the Bosnian, who turned in his 18th of the campaign.

Blackburn finally made Joe Hart work in injury time, but Ayegbeni Yakubu's shot was weak & was greeted by ironic cheers fr the home fans.



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1027291/manchester-city-coach-david-platt-praises-mario-balotelli?cc=4716

Platt praises Balotelli
February 25, 2012

ManC 1st-team coach David Platt hailed a mature performance fr Mario Balotelli in the routine win over Blackburn.

Balotelli opened the scoring as City ran out 3-0 winners in a 1-sided contest @ the Etihad Stadium 2 move 5 points clear @ the top of the Premier League. The Italian was making his 1st league appearance 4 a month aft serving a 4-match domestic ban 4 stamping on Tottenham's Scott Parker.

Manager Roberto Mancini has said he 1s full concentration fr the 21-year-old in the title run-in & Platt believes there were plenty of signs of tat.

Platt said: "I actually thought he was very disciplined in his performance & his work rate was exceptional both on & off the ball. His temperament was good. He can be pleased with his afternoon's work."

Platt was also pleased with the way Balotelli dealt with his treatment fr the Blackburn defence.

He said: "When a team defends deep against u like tat, & 2 open them up u hv got 2 give the ball 2 ppl who r marked & closely guarded, there r going 2 be kicks like tat, but u never 1s felt there was going 2 be any reaction 2day."

Balotelli celebrated his goal by revealing a T-shirt bearing a message of love 4 his girlfriend Raffaella, which is likely 2 attract rather less attention then the earlier 'Why Always Me?' shirt.

Platt said: "All players flash T-shirts nowadays. There r alot of players tat 1 2 take their shirts off & show messages. I don't think it is a case of flamboyance."

Balotelli's strike gave City a 1-0 half-time lead which might hv been greater but 4 a string of superb saves by Paul Robinson. Sergio Aguero added the 2nd earlier in the 2nd half b4 Edin Dzeko came off the bench 2 head a 3rd late on.

Platt played down the significance of the goals 4 the 3 leading strikers - who hv now scored 52 betw them tis term - in the week Carlos Tevez was welcomed back 2 training.

Platt said: "All 3 strikers hv scored all season. They r scoring goals but the team is creating them 4 them."

City dominated the game fr the outset & relegation-threatened Blackburn struggled 2 gain possession, let alone test keeper Joe Hart.

Platt said: "In terms of possession u saw tat we controlled the game. We knew we had 2 get off 2 a good start, not 2 let them settle in2 their game plan & we did tat. We created chances & felt the goal was coming."

The result sent Blackburn back in2 the relegation zone but manager Steve Kean, with fixtures against some fellow strugglers ahead, remains optimistic.

Kean said: "The games we hv coming up now, Aston Villa, Bolton & Wigan - teams in & around us - & it's going 2 be a massive month 4 us.

"We hv no injuries 2day & got a couple coming back, Gael Givet & Jason Lowe fr suspension, so fingers crossed lads come back fr international duty fresh & fit 2 play.

"We r disappointed 2day, but we will move on. It's never nice 2 lose. We tried 2 minimise the amount of times ManC could play thru us, much like we did @ Liverpool away, ManU & even Everton.

"But I don't think tat was the problem 4 us, but more when we did get the ball back, we never kept it the way we normally do. When we did get the ball back we gave the ball away & never got ourselves up the pitch enough 2 trouble Joe Hart.

"You know how difficult it's going 2 be with the depth of the (City) squad. It was probably close 2 a £400 million squad with the lads on the pitch & on the bench, so they can rotate & add quality when they decide 2 rest people."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1029273/man-city-should've-kept-daniel-sturridge,-says-roberto-mancini?cc=4716

City should've kept Sturridge - Mancini
March 1, 2012

ManC boss Roberto Mancini has bemoaned the "strange" decision 2 let Daniel Sturridge leave the club 4 Chelsea in July 2009.

Sturridge has established himself 1 of the 1st names on the teamsheet @ Chelsea tis season, scoring 9 goals in 20 Premier League appearances - & his form has earned him England recognition.

He joined Chelsea nearly 3 years ago when his contract @ City expired, with the Manchester outfit unwilling 2 meet his reported wage demands of £65,000 a week. And Mancini, who took charge @ City some 6 months later, has queried the wisdom of letting the 4ward move 2 a rival side.

"I asked him last year when he played [on loan] 4 Bolton why he left & he said he didn't know," Mancini said, according 2 the Times. "Given the chance, I think I would hv liked 2 hv kept him, but now he is @ Chelsea, we can do nothing.

"I know 4 sure he was 1 of the best young players tat was here. It was not difficult 2 see tat Sturridge was going 2 be a good player. It was strange becos he started out in Manchester & some1 let him out of the club."

[kumboo]

Man City vs Bolton

expecting an easy victory for City.
trying my luck on Exact Score 4-0 and 5-0

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1030524/diego-maradona:-sergio-aguero-should-play-for-real-madrid-?cc=4716

Maradona: Aguero should play for Real
March 3, 2012

Argentina legend Diego Maradona has urged Sergio Aguero 2 ignore his Atletico Madrid connections & join Real Madrid, insisting such a move would represent "his big break".

Aguero, 23, spent 5 years @ the Vicente Calderon b4 moving 2 ManC, where he has flourished since arriving in a £38 million deal last summer.

Real Madrid were believed 2 be interested in signing the 4mer Independiente striker b4 he made the switch 2 Eastlands, though he 1s claimed he would never play 4 a team starting with the letter 'R', in reference 2 Racing & Real Madrid, the 2 bitter rivals of the clubs he has played 4 so far in his career.

But Maradona, whose daughter is married 2 Aguero, believes tat his son-in-law should go back 2 La Liga with Real & thinks "he made a mistake" by choosing 2 sign 4 City ahead of tis season.

"Kun has 2 play 4 Real Madrid. If he signed 4 them, it would be his big break," Maradona told Radio La Red."Even though he is flying @ City, the best thing would hv been 2 sign 4 Madrid. He made a mistake."

Aguero is City's top scorer tis season with 16 goals & it seems unlikely the club would entertain any bids 4 him, but Al Wasl coach Maradona believes Real president Florentino Perez would be able 2 convince the current Premier League leaders 2 sell.

"Now, as he is doing so well, it will be difficult 2 get him fr City. They will 1 2 keep him becos [Roberto] Mancini has him very much in his plans," Maradona said.

"However, if Madrid 1 some1, they get them. Florentino has no limits. It's a question of convincing City, but not with money becos they hv plenty of tat.

"If Kun was playing 4 Madrid they would close in further on Barcelona. We would be talking abt Cristiano Ronaldo scoring 60 & more goals, becos Kun would move the entire defence."

[joew2005]

http://sg.sports.yahoo.com/news/football-power-10-adds-title-glory-mancini-011804676--soccer.html

Football: Power of 10 adds up to title glory - Mancini

Roberto Mancini has set his ManC side a target of 10 more victories 2 secure a 1st league title in 44 years.

City moved 5 points clear @ the top of the Premier League table with a 2-0 win over Bolton, hours b4 Manchester United travel 2 Tottenham on Sunday.

City host United in the 3rd last game of the season & aft their trip 2 White Hart Lane, SAF's side face West Brom, Wolves, Fulham, Blackburn, QPR, Wigan, Aston Villa & Everton.

City will come up against Swansea, Chelsea, Stoke, Sunderland, Arsenal, West Brom, Norwich & Wolves b4 tat potentially-decisive game.

Going into the weekend, Mancini claimed tat United will pick up 11 wins & tat all that City hv 2 do is match tat.

Aft the victory over Bolton, he said: "Tis was important becos we hv taken 3 points & we need 2 keep winning becos ManU is a very good team.

"If we could win the next 10 games, we would win the title. We just need 2 keep playing the way we r & we will hv a very good chance."

Mancini used a 2nd string side against relegation-threatened Bolton, sticking with Mario Balotelli despite the prospect of the Italian receiving a fine of 2 weeks wages 4 a trip 2 a Liverpool strip club in the early hours of Friday morning.

David Silva, Sergio Aguero & Aleksander Kolarov were among those left on the bench & Mancini is happy with the way his squad is shaping up despite Pablo Zabaleta limping off with a hamstring injury, a problem tat is also bothering Micah Richards.

He added: "We rested 1 or 2 players & I left Silva, Aguero, Kolarov beco we had everybody fit except Micah, who was injured.

"Pablo Zabaleta had a problem & had 2 come off as well so now we hv 2 injured right-backs which is a problem, but we will see how things go next week."

City coasted 2 an 18th consecutive Premier League home win thanks 2 a Gretar Steinsson own-goal & Balotelli's 2nd half effort @ the Etihad Stadium.

Bolton r 2 points fr safety but hv a run of games against teams tat r around them.

In March they come up against QPR, Aston Villa, Blackburn, Wolves & Fulham & hv the chance 2 pull away fr trouble.

Manager Owen Coyle said: "We hv 2 take the positives & move in2 the final 11 games of the season.
"We hv 6 @ home & 5 away & there r points 2 be achieved fr every single 1 of those matches.

"We hv come thru a tough set of fixtures & we now hv 2 make sure tat we go & win the points 2 climb the table & tat starts next Saturday against QPR @ the Reebok Stadium."

[joew2005]

http://sg.sports.yahoo.com/news/football-fergie-expects-city-showdown-decide-title-race-011006322--soccer.html

Football: Fergie expects City showdown to decide title race

SAF believes the destiny of the Premier League title race will be decided by the outcome of ManU's trip 2 face current leaders ManC @ Eastlands on April 30.

United manager Ferguson is convinced his side took a major step 2ward retaining the English crown with the hard-fought 3-1 victory @ Tottenham on Sunday.

The champions were out-played 4 long periods but capitalised on 2 defensive errors by Spurs b4 Ashley Young capped victory with his 2nd goal of the game.

Ferguson admitted his side rode their luck, but believes the form shown by United since the turn of the year confirms they r stepping up the pressure on City, who currently sit 2 points clear @ the head of the table.

"We hv had all the big teams since January including City & Liverpool in the FA Cup," Ferguson said.

"We hv come thru tat & credit 2 the players. They hv played well in most of the games. 2day was a bit disappointing but the 1 thing we did do was show the determination 2 get the result.

"We hv had it in the past. No question we hv come fr certain games knowing we hv had a bit of luck.

"But Tottenham r a very good side & tis is only their 2nd defeat @ home since the start of the season. Every game they play 58 % possession - tat's a big, big percentage, tat.

"It was a massive result & a massive performance by our defenders."

United face City @ the end of April 4 their 3rd last league game & Ferguson said: "I think it will be (the title decider), yeah.

"It is difficult 2 say becos things can happen. You can drop points. You can drop surprise points. I think tat will happen. I think both teams will drop points. But the important thing is not 2 drop as many as your opponents.

"We hv the experience. We won't get nervous. The battling performance we did 2day against a very, very good team tells u tat we r well up 4 it."

Wayne Rooney put United ahead against the run of play just b4 half time b4 Young struck in the 60th & 69th minutes 2 wrap up the points.

Jermain Defoe produced an 87th minute reply but it was 2 late 2 affect the outcome.

Back 2 back defeats hv left Tottenham sitting in 3rd place, just 4 points ahead of Arsenal, who lie 4th, but manager Harry Redknapp remains convinced his side will hold onto their position.

"It's going 2 be tight 4 the top 4 but I'd still rather be where we r than where Arsenal r," Redknapp said.

"They're 4 points behind us & we're going 4 3rd. I'd be disappointed if we finished 4th. I'd be more disappointed if we finished 5th."

Redknapp insisted he was satisfied with his side's response 2 the 5-2 defeat @ Arsenal the previous week.

"I had a meeting with the players on Friday when they came back fr international duty & said they've been a credit all season," he added.

"We've had 1 bad performance really, apart fr the 1st 2 games of the season when it was not the team I wanted 2 field.

"Aft tat we hv been on an incredible run of winning games & turning in great performances.

"We had a blip last week against Arsenal but I said I was proud of tat they hv done & 1 them 2 continue tat. I felt we did tat but needed a break."

Redknapp also denied the speculation linking him with the England job had affected Tottenham's form.

"You can't say the focus has been lost," he said. "I'm completely focused on tis team & getting results here.

"The players know tat as well. I don't hv days off. I work all week 4 Tottenham."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1031576/kolo-toure:-city-as-strong-as-the-old-arsenal?cc=4716

Toure: City as strong as old Arsenal
March 6, 2012

Kolo Toure believes ManC r now as strong as the Arsenal sides which consistently challenged 4 & won titles.

Toure, who made his 1st appearance 4 City in 2 months @ the weekend having been away @ the African Nations Cup, won the Premier League title & 2 FA Cups with Arsenal, as well as being runners-up in the league twice, losing 2 Barcelona in the final of the Champions League & being defeated by Chelsea in the 2007 League Cup final.

The Ivorian believes strength in depth is vital 2 win championships, & tat is the reason City hv managed 2 stay 2 points in front of ManU as the title race enters the final straight.

"The quality is the same, becos we had 24 great players @ Arsenal & here is the same," Toure told the Daily Mirror. "We also hv 24 great players. Here u can change any player. David Silva didn't play against Bolton, but we still won the game. Aguero didn't play, but we still won.

"In our time @ Arsenal, it was like tis - Dennis Bergkamp was on the bench, Kanu was on the bench, but we still managed 2 win the games. Tat's really important, when u hv a big squad like tat, tat u can change, give some players a rest & tis can be really helpful come the end of the season.

"Mentally we just need 2 focus on our game & play every game like it's a final. It's going 2 get tougher & tougher, becos it will get more intense, but we just need 2 keep our heads & stay cool. It's a mental test as much as a physical 1, becos u feel the pressure fr the other teams & u 1 2 deliver.

"But @ the same time u need 2 keep calm & play as well as u usually do. It's always difficult when you're in front becos the other team puts pressure on u. But @ the same time it's great 2 be 2 points in front of United becos tat puts pressure on them as well."

Toure missed the start of the season due 2 a 6-month ban 4 failing a drugs test & has made only 9 Premier League appearances since his return, but he is now content @ the club.

"My ban started on March 3 last year but I'm very happy 2day," said Toure. "I was really angry tis time last year, but life is like tat. There r hard times & good times & when the good times come you've just got 2 enjoy it.

"The past is the past. We all struggle in life @ a certain point. I think wat happened made me a better person, a stronger person. I now realise hw important the time is when you're able 2 play on the pitch, even 4 just 5 or 10 mins.

"I just 1 2 contribute 2 the team & show as much quality as I can 2 try 2 help the team 2 win the title."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1032331/mario-balotelli-fined-for-breaking-man-city-curfew?cc=4716

Balotelli fined for breaking curfew
March 7, 2012

ManC boss Roberto Mancini has confirmed striker Mario Balotelli had been fined a week's wages 4 breaking a club curfew.

Balotelli, 21, accepted the punishment - believed 2 be around £120,000 - aft being pictured outside a strip club in Liverpool in the early hours of Friday morning, contravening club regulations ahead of Saturday's game against Bolton.

Balotelli went on 2 play & score in the Premier League leaders' 2-0 defeat of the Trotters @ Eastlands but Mancini expressed his disappointment & pledged 2 investigate.

Mancini said: "I spoke with Mario & gave him a fine of 1 week's wages 4 wat he did. This is normal becos every player should hv good behaviour b4 the game.''

When asked if Balotelli had accepted the fine, Mancini said: "Yes.''

It is the 2nd time Balotelli has broken a curfew tis season - among a host of other high-profile misdemeanours - but he admitted in an interview published on Tuesday tat he had made a mistake.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1032514/man-city-boss-roberto-mancini-confirms-robin-van-persie-interest?cc=4716

Mancini confirms Van Persie interest
March 8, 2012

ManC boss Roberto Mancini says he is interested in signing Robin van Persie tis summer, but admits the Arsenal skipper is likely 2 remain with the Gunners.

Van Persie has netted 32 goals in all competitions 4 the north London club tis season, leading Mancini 2 compare the Dutchman 2 Lionel Messi & CR. The 28-year-old is out of contract @ the Emirates Stadium in 2013 & has put talks over a new deal on hold until the summer.

Mancini says he would love 2 add van Persie 2 his already star-studded ranks if he became available, but does not think tat will happen.

"We r interested in all good players," Mancini is quoted as saying in the English press. "Tis is normal, but not only us. I think all the good teams r interested in Van Persie.

"I think Van Persie @ tis moment is 1 of the best strikers in Europe with [Lionel] Messi, [Cristiano] Ronaldo, Sergio [Aguero] & Mario . I think he is a fantastic striker, but I think he will remain with Arsenal."

City acquired Samir Nasri fr Arsenal last summer & hv also signed Gael Clichy, Kolo Toure & Emmanuel Adebayor fr the Gunners in recent years.

"I think if there is a good player who 1s 2 leave a club, then we r interested," Mancini said. "But if tis player 1s 2 stay, we don't hv any problem. In my opinion, Van Persie will stay @ Arsenal.

"I think Robin van Persie will sign a new contract with Arsenal becos if Arsenal lose also Van Persie, they will hv a big problem.

"I think Arsenal will buy good players in the summer. Arsenal is a top team. They 1 2 win the next Premier League, so 4 these reasons I think he will stay."



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1032512/joe-hart:-don't-blame-carlos-tevez-if-we-lose-the-title?cc=4716

[B]Hart: Don't blame Tevez
March 8, 2012

ManC goalkeeper Joe Hart insists Carlos Tevez will be no more culpable than any1 else in the squad if Roberto Mancini's side fail 2 clinch the Premier League title.

City r 2 points clear of ManU @ the top of the table, & Tevez is poised 2 make his 1st-team playing comeback imminently following his self-imposed 3-month exile in Argentina.

He scored 4 the reserves against Bolton on Tuesday & is set 2 play a part over the final 11 games of the Premier League season as City aim 2 clinch the crown 4 the 1st time.

The striker could yet prove a disruptive influence in the dressing room across the closing weeks of the campaign - but no matter wat happens, Hart will not be rushing 2 place any blame on Tevez's shoulders.

"Alot of people will say tat but, personally, I won't," Hart told the Daily Mirror. "If we don't win the league, it will be our own fault. Tat includes Carlos, myself - every1. I'm not interested in wat's perceived outside of the club. All I'm interested in is wat's going on inside the club & how we can win the league.

"If tat means Carlos coming back, scoring a hat-trick & everyone saying he's the greatest player in the world, so be it. I couldn't care less."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1032929/man-city-boss-roberto-mancini-plays-down-robin-van-persie-comments?cc=4716

Mancini plays down RVP interest
March 9, 2012

ManC manager Roberto Mancini has distanced himself fr reports tat the club will launch a summer bid 4 Arsenal captain RVP.

Earlier tis week, Mancini described Van Persie "as 1 of the best strikers in Europe", leading 2 speculation tat the Premier League leaders would try & sign the Netherlands international, whose contract expires in summer 2013.

Arsenal hv agreed a deal 2 sign Germany international Lukas Podolski - seen as a potential replacement 4 Van Persie - according 2 several media sources, fuelling speculation the Gunners might be abt 2 lose their talismanic skipper.

Van Persie is the Premier League's top scorer tis season with 25, & has almost single-handedly clawed Arsenal into the battle 4 a Champions League spot following a torrid start 2 the campaign.

However while he is an admirer of the 4ward, Mancini insists he was not attempting 2 publicly court Van Persie, amid claims his comments angered Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger,

"I never said tat we 1 2 buy RvP," Mancini said 2 Sky Sports News.

"Some journalist asked me abt him, & I said we r interested in all good players - but also tat I think he will stay @ Arsenal 4 a long time, becos Van Persie 4 them is the best player."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1034337/prem:-rooney-send-utd-top-after-swans-stun-city?cc=4716

Rooney sends Utd top, Swans stun City
March 11, 2012

ManU returned 2 the top of the Premier League table on Sunday aft they strolled past 10-man West Brom & rivals ManC were surprisingly sunk by Swansea.

ManC failed a major test of their title credentials as they were beaten 1-0 by Swansea @ the Liberty Stadium.

Swansea should hv been ahead aft 5 mins when they were awarded a penalty - but Scott Sinclair's effort was kept out brilliantly by a sprawling Joe Hart, who gave away the spot-kick by bringing down Wayne Routledge. City failed 2 respond 2 tat scare, & did not register a shot on goal until the 23rd minute. Roberto Mancini, clearly irritated, took decisive action shortly b4 the break, making a tactical switch by hauling off Gareth Barry in favour of Sergio Aguero.

Mancini's tweak had no effect on the pattern of the match early in the 2nd period, with Swansea keeping the ball shrewdly & hunting it down in a frenzied manner when possession was squandered. Chances were few & far betw, yet it was the hosts who looked the more comfortable generally. City's simmering sense of frustration was tangible: as the match wore on, both Yaya Toure & Mario Balotelli were involved in minor skirmishes on the field.

And with 7 mins remaining, the hosts found the goal they deserved. Wayne Routledge pounced on Stefan Savic's wayward pass, b4 crossing 4 an unmarked Luke Moore 2 nod in. City thought they had escaped when Micah Richards put the ball in the net in stoppage time - only 4 the assistant referee 2 rule it offside, relegating the Etihad outfit 2 2nd place.

ManU leapfrogged their great rivals thanks 2 a comfortable 2-0 triumph over West Brom @ Old Trafford, sealed via a Wayne Rooney brace.

An attacking ManU side - Rooney, Javier Hernandez & Danny Welbeck all in the starting XI - were nearly caught napping twice inside the opening 20 mins, with West Brom left 2 rue the fact the chances fell 2 midfielder Keith Andrews. But United found a foothold as the half wore on, with Ashley Young @ the heart of their best moves, & edged ahead on 36 mins when Rooney got on the end of Hernandez's volleyed cross.

Hernandez & Welbeck were both unlucky not 2 double United's lead, b4 Baggies defender Jonas Olsson was given a 2nd yellow card 4 a trip on the Mexico international. Soon aft Olsson's dismissal, United killed the game off: Andrews brought down the influential Young in the box, & Rooney stroked the penalty home 2 send his side 2 the summit.

In the Sunday's final game Wigan remained rooted 2 the foot of the table aft missing a hatful of chances in a 1-1 draw against Norwich @ Carrow Road. A big win could hv lifted the Latics out of the bottom 3 but instead they had 2 come fr behind, with Victor Moses cancelling out Wes Hoolahan's opener.

Hoolahan struck aft just 10 mins thanks 2 an error fr Ali Al-Habsi. The Wigan keeper's poor clearance allowed Norwich a throw-in, which they took quickly, crossing immediately 4 Hoolahan 2 convert.

Norwich were by no means comfortable though, & Wigan almost levelled in fortunate circumstances when Emmerson Boyce's cross drifted on2 John Ruddy's bar. Ruddy was then called into action early in the 2nd half 2 deny James McCarthy when clean thru.

An equaliser was the least Wigan deserved, & they got it thanks 2 a brilliant Shaun Maloney pass tat allowed Moses 2 ride 1 tackle b4 rounding Ruddy. Substitute Mohamed Diame then should hv won it with 5 mins remaining, although Wigan were grateful 2 a world class Al-Habsi save @ the other end as both teams pushed 4 a winner.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1034625/roberto-mancini-ponders-carlos-tevez-gamble-for-chelsea?cc=4716

Mancini ponders Tevez gamble
March 12, 2012

Roberto Mancini has revealed he could bring Carlos Tevez back in2 the ManC fold, but admits the striker is unlikely 2 be in peak form.

City's defeat @ Swansea on Sunday saw them surrender top spot in the Premier League 4 the 1st time since October, & with their title bid faltering, Mancini is considering bringing his former captain back 4 their crunch clash against Chelsea next week.

Tevez has not played 4 City since September aft allegedly refusing 2 warm up during City's Champions League defeat 2 Bayern Munich. He began training last month aft going AWOL 2 Argentina 4 several months & failing 2 secure a move away fr Eastlands in Janaury.

The former ManU striker scored 4 the reserves last week as he continued his preparations 4 a 1st-team comeback, & while he is not expected 2 be in contention 4 City's Europa League clash against Sporting Lisbon on Thursday, he could be in the squad 4 the visit of Chelsea on March 21.

"Carlos needs 2 train again, maybe another 10 days," Mancini said. "I don't think tat Carlos can play the 1st game & be 100% aft 5 months. Tis is impossible. I think he could help us in the last 2 months."

[joew2005]

http://sg.sports.yahoo.com/news/fight-manchester-united-till-end-city-boss-mancini-110000378--spt.html

We will fight Manchester United till the end - City boss Mancini

Roberto Mancini has insisted ManC will fight ManU until the last game of the season 4 the Premier League title.

SAF's side overtook City @ the top of the league 4 the 1st time since October with a victory over West Brom, as Mancini's men slipped up against Swansea.

However, the Italian thinks there is still a long way 2 go b4 the race is decided.

"It's not important wat United did," Mancini told reporters.

"We will fight against them until the end. We hv 10 games 2 finish the championship & every week it can change.

"It's important we remain 2gether. It's better 2 be @ the top but it doesn't change anything.

"Tis championship is very long & there is time 2 go. We won't change our target.

"Tis was not a critical game. The championship will be decided 3 games fr the end of the season.”

Mancini believes United benefited fr having an ‘easy’ game but feels top spot will change hands a few times b4 the season ends.

He added: "We've been @ the top for 6 months. We might not be @ the top now but United had an easy game. We r just 1 point behind.

"We know tis can happen. United can go top. It's important 4 my players 2 lift themselves. I think they can do tat."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1035637/man-city's-nigel-de-jong-demanding-silverware?cc=4716

De Jong demanding silverware
March 15, 2012

Nigel de Jong believes ManC's season will be deemed a failure if they finish the 2011-12 campaign trophyless.

City's 1-0 loss @ Swansea City on Sunday allowed their rivals United 2 leapfrog them in the Premier League table with 10 matches of the season left 2 play.

Roberto Mancini's side r also competing in the Europa League, with the club looking 2 overturn a 1-goal deficit in the 2nd leg of their last 16 tie with Sporting Lisbon on Thursday night.

Having tasted glory @ Wembley when the side lifted the FA Cup last May, De Jong has urged his team-mates 2 not hv any regrets come the end of the current campaign as they look 2 add 2 their trophy cabinet.

The Netherlands international said: "We r still in 2 main competitions & the only way we can succeed is 2 win 1 of the prizes.

"You always go 4 the prizes & we will be very disappointed if, @ the end of the day, we end up with no trophies. Every1 is hungry 4 more aft winning the FA Cup last season & tat always has 2 be the ambition of tis club.

"The main goal is the Premier League & we still hv a chance. But we r still in the Europa League.

"We said @ the start of the season we 1 2 be in as many competitions as we can, so staying in them has 2 be our aim until the end of the season. It will need alot of strength & power fr us but we hv a big enough squad."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1036047/roberto-mancini-takes-blame-for-europa-league-exit?cc=4716

Mancini takes blame for exit
March 16, 2012

ManC boss Roberto Mancini has taken responsibility 4 the club's exit fr the Europa League, saying his players were 2 complacent in the 1st half which cost them a place in the quarter-finals.

City went in2 the 2nd leg @ Eastlands a goal behind, & by half-time tat was 3 as Sporting Lisbon took advantage of a poor foul by Mario Balotelli & slack defending.

A 2nd-half onslaught came up short as City won 3-2 but went out on the away goals rule.

Mancini said: "In the 1st half we didn't play, but I m the manager & it's not the players' fault, but mine - I probably made a mistake. The players did everything, & fought on the pitch. When a manager doesn't prepare well 4 the game, tis happens.

"When I lose a game I think abt why I lost & think abt where I made mistakes. I understand we hv big players but in football every game is difficult, & in the Europa League & Champions League it is more difficult, becos every team plays 2 win.

"Sometimes we make mistakes, but the manager is the person who always prepares the game, & I probably made some mistakes 4 these 2 games.

"I m proud 4 the 2nd half becos we had a fantastic 45 mins, but I m very sorry 4 the players & our supporters becos they were fantastic in tat 2nd half.

"But I m disappointed in myself, not the players. 4 the 2nd time tis year, I hope I don't make mistakes against Chelsea [on Wednesday].

"If we hv the same spirit as we had in the 2nd half we can win the next game against Chelsea. And I m confident 4 the Premier League becos we stayed on top for 7 months & now we r in 2nd position, 1 point behind. I m very confident we can win the title.

"I think tat now it will be a good fight until the end of the season becos we hv only the Premier League & we can put all of our strength in2 tis. I think it will be good.''

Mancini joked tat City followed United out of the competition 2 focus on their title bid. He said: "We were envious of United becos they lost, so we wanted 2 lose tis game!''

Mancini said of the Balotelli foul which put led 2 Sporting's opener: "I was disappointed with him when he conceded the free-kick, but it is not his fault we lost tis game.''

Sporting coach Ricardo Sa Pinto never doubted his team had the ability 2 follow up last week's 1st-leg success. The 4mer Portugal striker has overseen a transformation of fortunes since taking charge @ the Jose Alvalade Stadium last month, winning 6 of his 8 games in charge.

Sa Pinto said: "I m very proud 2 be the leader of tis team & 2 hv these players working with me. I said b4, in the 1st leg & yesterday, tat I believed in the team & the players.

"We knew ManC were a big team & 4 tat I m really pleased 2 get thru. It is great 4 the image of Sporting 2 knock out a team like ManC, who r 1 of the best teams in the world.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1036416/ex-manchester-city-striker-marsh:-freeze-out-carlos-tevez?cc=4716

City should freeze out Tevez - Marsh
March 17, 2012

4mer ManC striker Rodney Marsh has urged current manager Roberto Mancini not 2 allow Carlos Tevez back in2 the 1st-team fold.

Marsh has experience of being the controversial man @ the club, but believes bringing Tevez back aft a well-documented dispute with the club would hinder, not help, an already faltering Premier League title challenge.

Controversial 4ward Marsh arrived @ Maine Road as the superstar signing who would help deliver the title 4 favourites City back in 1972, but it did not work out & the striker was blamed 4 unsettling the team.

Tevez, who is poised 4 a comeback against Chelsea on Wednesday night aft Mancini admitted he is ready 2 use the 4ward, finds himself in a very similar position & Marsh thinks the Argentina international is just 2 "volatile" 2 return 4 the run-in.

Asked if City manager Mancini should take the risk with Tevez, Marsh told ESPNsoccernet: "No, not in my view. And tat is nothing 2 do with the comparisons tat r inevitably going 2 be made with my arrival @ City."

Marsh, who will be back playing 4 QPR @ Loftus Road in the Elite Legends Cup in May, explained: "When I joined City fr QPR, City already had a wonderful team & were really flying, I didn't know any1, so I came in cold.

"Tevez, of course, has been there b4, not only in Manchester with City, but in Manchester with United, he is not even a new player, he is known 2 the fans, 2 the players.

"So, u would think I would say 'yes' play him, but I say 'no' don't, but not becos of any fear of history repeating itself, the circumstances r similar but not the same, as I hv pointed out.

"I wouldn't bring him back becos he is so volatile, becos there r so many negatives around him which reflect on the football club & the team.

"Of course it is a tough call 4 Mancini, & he is the only person who can judge wat is best 4 the team."

He added: "Just imagine Tevez sitting on the bench, where he will inevitably start, there will be all eyes trained on him, every TV camera, every journo looking @ his reaction when his manager calls 4 him 2 warm up."

[kiko]

City Midfield to attack, their strong, defense central not so good, if they have Phil jones or Milan thiago , Barcelona puyol . They can challenge and go all the way in europe . I wonder why city boss don't invest in defense ,.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1037641/lille-star-eden-hazard-keeps-cool-after-man-city-scouting-trip?cc=4716

Hazard focused despite City interest
March 19, 2012

Lille star Eden Hazard says he is keeping his focus despite Roberto Mancini heading 2 France 2 watch him in action on Sunday night.

Hazard, 21, is expected 2 move 2 the Premier League in the summer, with Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, Chelsea, ManU & ManC all expected 2 be among the bidders.

City stepped up their interest on Sunday as Mancini, along with assistant David Platt & chief football administration officer Brian Marwood, travelled 2 Lille 2 watch Hazard score 1 & set up the other 3 in a 4-0 victory over Valenciennes.

Tat followed SAF's visit 2 watch Hazard in action against Lyon earlier in March, but the Belgium international says he will not allow the transfer talk 2 distract him as 3rd-placed Lille look 2 enjoy a strong conclusion 2 the season.

"Whether it's Alex Ferguson or Roberto Mancini there, I don't think abt it," he told Canal +. "I knew tat Roberto Mancini was there - the coach told me - but I wasn't thinking abt tat. I just try 2 play my game.

"We'll see wat happens, but 4 the rest of the season I'll be concentrating on Lille."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1038038/chelsea's-john-terry-to-miss-man-city-clash?cc=4716

Chelsea's Terry to miss City clash
March 20, 2012

Chelsea's interim 1st-team coach Roberto Di Matteo will be w/o John Terry 4 his side's Premier League meeting with ManC.

Terry, 31, has recently returned fr a knee injury, making his comeback in the 1-0 Premier League win over Stoke b4 being named in the team 2 face Napoli in the Champions League.

The Blues skipper was replaced in extra-time versus Napoli, appearing in some discomfort, & subsequently missed Sunday's 5-2 FA Cup victory against Leicester.

Terry will now be absent 4 Chelsea's trip 2 the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night, but could make his return 4 the home match versus Tottenham on Saturday.

Di Matteo said: "I expect JT 2 be ok 4 Saturday, it's only short term, we were lucky he came back so early.

"He's a crucial member of our team & good leader on the pitch. It's better when he's available but he'll be ok 4 Tottenham, I hv 2 manage everybody not just 1 player.'

Chelsea r currently 5th in the Premier League, trailing 4th-placed Arsenal by 3 points.



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1037978/carlos-tevez-like-a-new-signing-for-man-city---joe-hart?cc=4716

Tevez like a new signing for City - Hart
March 20, 2012

Joe Hart believes the return of Carlos Tevez comes @ the ideal time 2 boost ManC's Premier League title bid.

Tevez has not played 4 City since September, but having reconciled his differences with the club hierarchy is expected 2 be on the bench 4 City's crunch clash against Chelsea on Wednesday.

And with the Argentina international set 2 return 2 the City side 4 the 1st time in 6 months, Hart believes it will be like having a new signing on the pitch.

"I haven't actually trained with him," Hart said in the Sun. "But those who hv assure me he's doing really well. It's down 2 the manager 2 assess it. But a fully fit & firing Carlos has got 2 be a positive 4 us.

"We've got energy in the team & we've got alot of firepower. But Carlos brings us more of tat. The strikers who r here now hv got us in a position where we could get a record points tally in the league. But having Carlos back will be like a new signing."

Defeat 2 Swansea 9 days ago saw City surrender their lead @ the top of the Premier League 4 the 1st time since October, but Hart believes his side r capable of gunning down leader ManU.

"It doesn't feel good," Hart said. "As soon as the whistle went @ Swansea, we knew. We didn't need 2 check the results, we knew wat would hv gone on elsewhere.

"We were hurt & we'll show how hurt we r with our performance on Wednesday against Chelsea. Now we hv 2 push on, we hv a big game against Chelsea. We need 2 focus on wat we're doing & we should be OK.

"1 result can literally change everything. It's madness but it's great. Being 4 points behind won't hv any bearing on how we play.

"I've never won [the league] so it's hard 2 know wat a title-winning side feels like. But we've got a good spirit, good attitude.

"And I'm sure any1 who has won a title will tell u tat's wat is required. We hv all the ingredients. All we're short of is the medal round our necks."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1038537/man-city-boss-roberto-mancini-praises-carlos-tevez-for-attitude?cc=4716

Mancini praises Tevez for attitude
March 21, 2012

ManC manager Roberto Mancini insists controversial striker Carlos Tevez has been "perfect" in behaviour & attitude since returning 2 training.

Tevez is poised 2 make his 1st appearance 4 the club 4 6 months on Wednesday, with Mancini expected 2 name him on the bench 4 the Premier League visit of Chelsea. The Argentinian has not played 4 City since falling in2 dispute with the club following the infamous Champions League defeat @ Bayern Munich.

Aft an unauthorised 3-month absence in Argentina, the 28-year-old returned 2 training 5 weeks ago & apologised 4 his conduct, clearing the way 4 a return.

Tevez was inspirational as City won the FA Cup last season but Mancini believes his efforts r even eclipsing those of 12 months ago.

"Wat happened with Carlo 6 months ago is in the past," Mancini said. "Carlo is part of our plans 4 the last 2 months, he is a City player. I think Carlo in tis moment 1s 2 play football. He needs 2 play football, 4 him & 4 his future. He 1s 2 play.

"I can see in training he is perfect, better than last year. He 1s 2 play & deserves 2 play & help the team. I hv always thought Carlo is a top player, even when we had the problem."

City trail rivals ManU by 4 points @ the top of the table but r looking 2 cut the deficit by winning their game in hand against Chelsea. Mancini expects Tevez 2 be ready 2 start next month as the title race heats up.

"He is getting better but I don't think Carlo can hv more than 25-30 mins," said Mancini. "A player like Carlo needs 2 play but for 90 minutes, @ tis moment, it is impossible.

"If he can play 30 minutes, aft tat 45 in 3 or 4 games, then he could hv 90 mins, easily."

Mancini, though, says City may hv a "big problem" ahead of the Chelsea game with 1st-choice centre-backs Vincent Kompany & Joleon Lescott injured. Lescott is ruled out with a groin problem while captain Kompany is unlikely 2 return fr a calf injury.



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1038595/patrick-vieira:-paul-scholes-return-shows-man-utd-weakness?cc=4716

Vieira: Scholes return shows weakness
March 21, 2012

ManC football development executive Patrick Vieira believes ManU's decision 2 recall Paul Scholes 2 the 1st-team picture in January is a sign tat there is "a little bit of weakness" in the Premier League leaders' squad.

Scholes, 37, announced his retirement @ the end of last season aft United claimed their 19th league title, but made a dramatic U-turn in January - returning 2 the 1st-team & playing in 13 of the Red Devils' past 15 games.

The veteran midfielder has plugged the midfield gap left by long-term absentees Darren Fletcher & Anderson, & United hv won all 7 Premier League games he has started.

Vieira, who played against Scholes 4 Arsenal & City b4 retiring himself @ the end of last season, admitted he has been impressed with the 4mer England international's impact, but insists the need 2 call on a 37-year-old is proof tat United lack strength in depth.

"Paul Scholes is a player tat I really love & admire, 1 of the best English players of the last few years, & seeing him come back is good 4 him & 4 United," Vieira said.

"But 4 him 2 come back just shows alittle bit of weakness in United, becos they had 2 bring a player back who was 37.

"I think it shows tat, in the next few years, it will be really difficult 4 United 2 cope with other teams becos, with all the respect I hv 4 Scholes, him coming back shows tat they don't hv talent in there 2 replace him.

"When u see United losing young players like Ravel Morrison & maybe Paul Pogba, they should be really worried becos tat wouldn't hv happened in the past."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1038694/prem:-man-city-battle-back-to-beat-chelsea,-spurs-draw-with-stoke?cc=4716

City battle back to beat Blues
March 21, 2012

A sublime finish fr Samir Nasri 5 mins fr time saw ManC complete a 2nd-half comeback 2 defeat Chelsea 2-1 @ the Etihad Stadium.

Nasri chipped the ball over the onrushing Petr Cech having completed a 1-2 with substitute Carlos Tevez 2 win the Premier League encounter & maintain City's title push, aft Sergio Aguero had earlier cancelled out Gary Cahill's opener fr the penalty spot.

Chelsea were lively 4 much of the contest but scored slightly against the run of play b4 Tevez's introduction - 2 a warm reception fr the home crowd - sowed the seeds of a remarkable turnaround tat kept Roberto Mancini's side within a point of leaders ManU @ the top of the table.

Liverpool suffered a shock 3-2 defeat 2 relegation-threatened QPR despite having held a 2-goal lead @ Loftus Road.

2nd-half strikes from Sebastian Coates & Dirk Kuyt appeared 2 hv given Kenny Dalglish's side the 3 points, but Mark Hughes' side embarked on a remarkable revival.

Shaun Derry got the 1st goal in the 77th minute, b4 Djibril Cisse punished his former club with a finish 4 mins fr time tat looked 2 hv salvaged a point 4 the relegation-threatened Hoops. Things got even better 4 the home side shortly afterwards as Jamie Mackie moved onto Luke Young's headed pass deep in2 injury time 2 fire a beautiful effort beyond Pepe Reina & send the crowd in2 raptures.

The result moved QPR out of the relegation zone @ the expense of Bolton, while Liverpool remain 7th.

Tottenham Hotspur stumbled 1s again in the battle 4 Champions League qualification despite salvaging a 1-1 draw against Stoke City @ White Hart Lane.

Cameron Jerome had put the Potters ahead 15 mins fr time, winning a free-kick b4 finding himself in the right position 2 turn the ball home past Brad Friedel aft Ryan Shawcross had got on the end of the ball in2 the box.

However, Rafael van der Vaart ensured the home side did not go away empty handed, meeting Gareth Bale's injury time corner 2 head beyond Asmir Begovic & prevent a home defeat.

Tat result allowed Arsenal 2 move up 2 3rd aft they defeated Everton 1-0 @ Goodison Park.

Thomas Vermaelen's goal in the 8th minute of the game proved decisive @ Goodison Park, the Belgian rising 2 head home fr Robin van Persie's cross following the breakdown of a corner.

It was no less than Arsenal deserved fr a game where they created the best openings but were unable 2 add 2 their advantage. Everton meanwhile, could manage just a single shot on target during the entire game - Nikica Jelavic's attempt fr 6 yards just aft half-time forcing Wojciech Szczesny into action.

[woainvren]

welcome back, TEVEZ.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1038889/man-city-boss-roberto-mancini-pleased-with-carlos-tevez?cc=4716

Mancini pleased with Tevez
March 21, 2012

Following his side's 2-1 victory over Chelsea in the Premier League, ManC boss Roberto Mancini told reporters tat he was pleased with Tevez's cameo & paid tribute 2 his side's determination 2 win the game.

Tevez came on in the 66th minute & made an important contribution 2 the game, supplying a neat reverse-pass 2 set-up Samir Nasri 4 his late winner.

Tevez had not played 4 the ManC 1st-team since his much-publicised dispute with Mancini in September last year.

"Carlos is not 100% but tat is normal,'' said Mancini. "But he knows the football. That was important becos he did an incredible assist 4 Samir. Wat happened with him finished 1 month ago when Carlos came back & everything was finished.

"I hv spoken 2 Carlos every day in the last month. He knew he would be on the bench 2day & would probably play for 20 mins. If he can find good form in 10 days tat would be important 4 us. Now it is important 4 him 2 play some games, 4 us, him & his future.

"Samir did well but he can do better. He can improve. He is a top player. If he plays like tis he can be like David Silva or Xavi if he plays.

"I don't think we hv played well in the last 3 or 4 weeks. Until then we hv played fantastic football. Afterwards it has been so-so. Maybe aft tonight something can change.''

Samir Nasri also paid tribute 2 Tevez.

"I m really happy 4 him (Tevez),'' Nasri said. "He has showed great spirit & 2day showed he can be really important until the end of the season. It's good tat it was him who gave him the assist."

City defender Micah Richards admitted the victory was a huge result in their battle with city rivals United 4 the title.

He said: "It's a massive result 4 us. Aft we went 1-0 down heads could hv dropped, but we kept on going & managed 2 get 3 points.

"We did hv 2 win tonight, we gave everything & showed good character. The lads will be delighted with tat.''

Chelsea's 1st defeat under Roberto Di Matteo is a blow 2 their hopes of securing a top-4 finish 2 squeeze into next season's Champions League.

"It is a setback 4 us but we look 4ward 2 the future,'' said Di Matteo. "2 weeks ago we were 7 points behind 3rd place, now we r 6.

"We need 2 look @ these things becos we r going in the right direction. We showed we can match the best teams in tis league.''

Di Matteo had no complaints abt the handball decision tat went against Michael Essien tat allowed Aguero 2 equalise.

And he defended his decision 2 select Fernando Torres ahead of Didier Drogba, even though the £50 million Spain striker did not look 2 impressed 2 be replaced by the Ivorian in the latter stages.

"I just thought tat 4 the dynamic of the team it was going 2 be the right decision,'' said Di Matteo. "No player is happy 2 be taken off but there is absolutely no problem with tat.''

Di Matteo confirmed full-back Branislav Ivanovic had been replaced in the 1st half becos of a "tight muscle'' & would be assessed in the morning.



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1039033/roberto-mancini-angered-by-mario-balotelli-display?cc=4716

Mancini angered by Balotelli display
March 22, 2012

ManC boss Roberto Mancini has revealed his decision 2 haul off striker Mario Balotelli against Chelsea was a tactical 1.

Balotelli was substituted @ half-time with the score @ 0-0, having wasted a glorious chance 2 break the deadlock in the opening period when an error fr Frank Lampard sent him clean thru on Petr Cech. The Italian took his shot 2 early, & Cech was able 2 palm it round the post.

Tat miss was the low point in a lethargic showing fr the notoriously unpredictable Balotelli, & Mancini said: "I didn't like how he played, so I made a tactical sub."

City fell behind in the 2nd period aft Gary Cahill's deflected strike, but recovered 2 win 2-1 following a penalty fr Sergio Aguero & a winner fr Samir Nasri, who scored aft running onto a pass fr returning striker Carlos Tevez.

Mancini's side r now 1 point behind rivals & league leaders ManU; the 2 teams r scheduled 2 face each other @ the Etihad b4 the end of the season.

[joew2005]

http://sg.sports.yahoo.com/news/tevez-return-shows-citys-desperation-114209931.html

Tevez return shows City's desperation, says Ferguson

(Reuters) - ManU manager Alex Ferguson cranked up the mind games with Premier League title rivals ManC on Friday by suggesting their recall of Carlos Tevez smacked of desperation.

The Scot used a news conference 2 fire back @ City's former player Patrick Vieira 4 saying earlier in the week tat United had shown their weakness in bringing Paul Scholes out of retirement.

"If it's desperation bringing the best midfielder in Britain 4 the last 20 years back then I think we can accept tat," said Ferguson.

"(City manager) Roberto (Mancini) had a wee dig a couple of weeks back. We're all going 2 play our hand tat way. There will be plenty of ammunition 4 tat," he added.

"If u talk abt desperation, they played a player the other night who refused 2 go on the pitch & the manager said he'd never play again & he takes a 5-month holiday in Argentina.

"Wat is tat? Could tat come under the description of desperation? There will be plenty of ammunition don't worry," smiled Ferguson.

4mer United striker Tevez is back in favour @ City aft being absent since September when he refused 2 come off the bench in a Champions League match in Munich.

Mancini had said the Argentine would never play 4 City again but sent Tevez on 4 the final 20 minutes against Chelsea on Wednesday & was rewarded by the player setting up the winning goal in the 85th minute.

City r now 1 point behind champions United with the 2 rivals meeting 4 a potentially decisive clash @ the Etihad stadium on April 30.

Tevez scored 24 goals last season but had hardly been missed while City were riding high in the league until patchy away form whittled away their lead & allowed United 2 steal back in front.

Vieira, now City's football development executive aft a long career with Arsenal, had said Scholes' return "shows a little bit of weakness in United, becos they had 2 bring a player back who was 37.

"With all the respect I hv 4 Scholes, him coming back shows tat they don't hv talent in there 2 replace him," added the Frenchman.

Vieira had also said tat the departure of young United players such as Ravel Morrison & possibly Paul Pogba was worrying 4 the champions who would previously hv had no problem retaining talent.

Ferguson also rejected tat accusation & hoped Pogba would be staying.

"We 1 him 2 stay becos we think he's going 2 be a fantastic Manchester United player. We hope that's the case," said the Scot.

[joew2005]

http://sg.sports.yahoo.com/news/football-tevez-ready-tip-title-race-says-toure-000507404--soccer.html

Football: Tevez ready to tip title race, says Toure

Yaya Toure says Carlos Tevez 1s 2 say sorry 2 ManC fans 4 his behaviour earlier in the season by helping the club secure the title.

Manager Roberto Mancini is considering handing Tevez his 1st league start 4 almost 7 months when Sunderland visit Eastlands on Saturday.

Having spent most of the season @ the top of the table, City trail leaders ManU by 3 points with 8 games remaining, & hv had a week 2 forget.

Aft being held to a 1-1 draw by Stoke last Saturday, United piled on the pressure by defeating Fulham on Monday b4 Mancini was pictured giving controversial striker Mario Balotelli a dressing down in training on Wednesday.

Yet Mancini is now set 2 turn 2 another unpredictable member of his squad 2 ensure City's title race does not fade in the closing stages.

Tevez has made 2 substitute appearances totalling 40 mins since returning 2 the side earlier in the month following his infamous touchline row with Mancini during a Champions League defeat against Bayern Munich in Germany in September.

But the Argentina striker may start against Sunderland aft scoring in a 71 minute run-out 4 the reserves @ Morecambe on Wednesday.

The former ManU player, who has not started a league game since September, capped an energetic display by finding the net with an ambitious chip fr the edge of the box.

Toure says Tevez is desperate 2 make amends 4 his behaviour earlier in the season by ensuring City pip his former club 2 the title.

"Carlos is our player - every1 can make mistakes, but he is really a good man," said Ivory Coast international Toure.

"When you meet him, he is always good fun & a nice guy, even if people may hv a different image of him.

"It was unbelievable when Carlos came back & the fans gave him big applause, & tried 2 support him when he got the ball.

"He knew when he came back 2 the club tat he had made a very big mistake, but now everything is over & he is focused on winning the Premier League.

"He 1s 2 help the team, & the club, & do as much as possible 2 say sorry 2 the fans.

"I think he will be an important player 4 us, as he 1s 2 prove 2 every1 he is a top player. I m sure he will be fantastic 4 the rest of the season.

"In my 1st year here he was my captain, & was always focused, always wanting 2 win - he was unbelievable.

"When people love u, u 1 2 give them something back. The fans come 2 enjoy football & see our best players, like Carlos, & we hv 2 deliver."

Sunderland hope 2 take their out their FA Cup frustration on City as they look 2 bounce back fr the bitterly disappointing 6th round replay loss @ home 2 Everton.

The Wearside club slumped 2 a 2-0 defeat 2 miss out on their 1st semi-final in 8 years, & skipper Lee Cattermole is adamant they can help atone 4 tat by matching their best-ever Premier League finish - back-2-back 7th-places in 2000 & 2001.

City haven't dropped points in front of their own fans for 13 months since a 1-1 draw with Fulham, with 20 consecutive victories since then.

But Mancini's men slid to a 1-0 defeat @ the Stadium of Light in January, & Cattermole said: "We beat them @ our place & played out of our skin, so if we can go there & be the 1st team 2 get something off them 4 the 1st time in ages it'd be brilliant."

Sunderland sit 8th aft a remarkable turn-around in fortunes under manager Martin O'Neill, who took charge b4 Christmas with the Wearsiders in the bottom 3.

Cattermole added: "Going 2 Wembley would hv been great, but u never know, we might hv taken our eye off the league had tat happened.

"We can focus on tat now. When Martin took over if you'd hv given us 8th place @ tis stage, we'd hv grabbed it."

Defenders John O'Shea (hamstring) & Kieran Richardson (calf) remain doubts.

[joew2005]

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/03042012/58/premier-league-paper-round-city-review-mancini-position.html

Premier League - Paper Round: City to 'review' Mancini position

ManU's win @ Blackburn on Monday night has increased the heat on Roberto Mancini.

A number of papers, both quality & tabloid, state tat the Italian's position @ ManC is 2 be reviewed in the summer if the club end the season without a trophy with Mancini having spent £240m on players since taking over in December 2009.

The Daily Star has the most apocalyptic backpage 4 Mancini as under the headline "Out of a job" – they say tat Mancini is "7 games fr the sack."

The paper says: "Unless the Blues can somehow produce a miracle comeback 2 beat United or @ least produce a positive end 2 the campaign, Mancini will be shown the door."

The Independent & the Times also devote their backpages 2 Mancini's uncertain future with the Times headline saying "Mancini's job is price of title failure."

However, the Times makes the point tat a key factor in whether Mancini loses his job will come down 2 who else is available & 1 name in particular looms largest.

"The decision (on Mancini) will also be influenced by whether an outstanding candidate, such as Jose Mourinho, becomes available," explains the paper.

"Mourinho is thought 2 be giving serious consideration 2 leaving Real Madrid @ the end of the season & would favour a return 2 the Premier League if he left the Spanish club who r 6 points clear of Barcelona @ the top of La Liga.

"With Chelsea, Mourinho's 4mer club, in the hunt 4 a new manager & spur requiring a replacement 4 Harry Redknapp should he succeed Fabio Capello as England manager, there could be a 3-way tussle 4 the Portuguese's services if Mancini is removed."

Another manager who has been getting some heat recently is Liverpool's Kenny Dalglish & while his position does not appear 2 be immediately under threat, a number of papers say that he will be required 2 provide a full written report 2 the club's American owners @ the end of the season to explain an unacceptable league slump.

Staying @ Anfield & the Liverpool keeper charged with filling Pepe Reina's boots may not be @ Anfield beyond tis season. Brazilian Alexander Doni arrived on a free transfer fr Roma last summer but has already said he is unsure of where he will be next year. (The Sun)

Roy Hodgson will be offered the biggest managerial contract in West Bromwich's history 2 keep him @ the Hawthorns. Hodgson's current deal expires @ the end of the season & the Baggies 1 him 2 commit 2 a deal worth £3 million a year. (Daily Mail)

Arsene Wenger is furious with Marouane Chamakh aft the striker was pictured holding a shisha pipe hours aft Arsenal's defeat at QPR. The Morocco forward was snapped with fellow countryman Adel Taarabt, who had earlier scored against the Gunners, with pipes on Saturday. (Daily Mail)

Finally 2 Scotland & Turkish side Trabzonspor r set 2 take flop Pawel Brozek back fr Celtic but a deal 2 sell Morten Rasmussen 2 Norwegian side Aalesund last weekend was scuppered by the striker's agent (Daily Record).

[joew2005]

http://sg.sports.yahoo.com/news/arsenal-manchester-city-preview-gunners-could-seventh-win-080000602--spt.html

Arsenal - Manchester City Preview:
Gunners could get 7th win in 8 matches with Mancini's side struggling away fr home

Sergio Aguero (ankle) believes tat he will be fit enough 2 be @ Roberto Mancini’s disposal on Sunday. Joleon Lescott (groin) has recovered fr his spell on the sidelines but it would be surprising 2 see him thrust back in2 the ManC mix 4 such an important clash.

Micah Richards (head) was forced off @ half-time in City's 3-3 draw with Sunderland last weekend & he could be replaced by Pablo Zabaleta @ right-back. Samir Nasri (fatigue) is a likely candidate 4 a starting role against his former club having missed the last match.

Arsenal hv a mostly-full-strength squad 2 choose fr ahead of tis weekend’s Premier League clash, with their injury list gradually shortening as the climax 2 the campaign approaches. Jack Wilshere (ankle) remains sidelined, as do fellow midfielders Emmanuel Frimpong (knee), Abou Diaby (hamstring) & Francis Coquelin (hamstring). Defender Per Mertesacker (ankle) will also not feature @ the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Arsenal won 6 successive games b4 their 2-1 defeat 2 QPR last weekend, including victories over Tottenham, Liverpool & AC Milan.
ManC hv been poor away fr home 4 a few months now - only 5 of their last 36 Premier League goals came away fr the Etihad Stadium.
Both matches betw these Champions League-chasing teams tis campaign hv ended 1-0 to Roberto Mancini’s men.

The Blues hv lost all 4 matches tis season when Mario Balotelli & Edin Dzeko hv featured in the same starting line-up.
Although City beat the Gunners in the League Cup @ the Emirates Stadium in November, the last time tat the club conquered them in the league @ Arsenal was October 4 1975.

Balotelli has scored a goal every 94 minutes tis season, the best rate in the Premier League 4 all players who hv played @ least 1000 minutes. Mario Balotelli is 7/1 with Bet365 to score 2 or more goals in tis game.
Theo Walcott gets some stick fr Arsenal fans, but the winger has scored or assisted 15 goals in the top flight since the 2011-12 campaign began. Wayne Rooney is the only Englishman with a better record.

If ManC win tis weekend then they will close the gap on top-of-the-table ManU. The gap in points will depend on the result in ManU’s match with QPR, which takes place b4 the Arsenal-City clash. The current gap is 5 points.
Aleksandar Kolarov made 16 crosses in open play last weekend - on only 1 occasion has a player made more in an English top flight fixture tis campaign (Wolves winger Matt Jarvis produced 17 versus Newcastle last October).

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1045627/roberto-mancini-fears-manchester-city-axe?cc=4716

Mancini fears Man City axe
April 7, 2012

Roberto Mancini admits his future could be in doubt if he fails 2 break ManC's league title drought tis season.

Mancini's men previously held a 5-point lead over ManU b4 a month-long slump saw City slip 5 points behind their fierce rivals with 7 games remaining. The Italian knows fr his experience @ Inter Milan tat the security of his position may be scrutinised by club hierachy if he fails 2 deliver tis term.

"I know football very well," he said. "I left Inter aft winning 7 trophies & I still had a 4-year contract. So in football anything can happen in any moment. Like the title race, things can change in 1 week.

"It's the same regarding my future. When u choose tis job u know anything can happen. I don't hv a problem with tis becos when u work hard 4 your job & improve your team, tat's the important thing."

Mancini says he is focused on the team's goals rather than his own issues & tat chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak remains fully supportive as the club aims 2 win its 1st league crown in 44 years.

"I hv 1 year left on my contract," said Mancini. "I started tis job 2-&-a-half years ago & since then we hv improved alot as a team, as players & as a club.

"Tis is important when u hv a new team. I've been in tis world a long time & I knw tat u can lose tis title (job). But wat's important 2 me is tat the squad has improved alot over the last 2 years.

"I think we're progressing, but I don't decide (my future). I do the best in my job & aft I don't decide the situation.

"My relationship with Khaldoon is fantastic. Even if he sacked me @ the end of the season or next year, I would say tat any manager who works with him is very lucky. He's a really good man. Tis doesn't change my opinion abt him or the club. But I don't hv tis problem becos I will continue in my job.

"I'm sure tat tis club has arrived @ the top. With 2 or 3 more players aft tis year, the club will start 2 win, & then it will win 2 or 3 trophies every year."



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1045158/man-city%27s-roberto-mancini:-i-would-punch-mario-balotelli?cc=4716

Mancini: I would punch Balotelli
April 6, 2012

ManC boss Roberto Mancini has claimed he would "punch" Mario Balotelli if he were a team-mate with the temperamental striker.

Balotelli, 21, has again made headlines tis week aft Mancini revealed he considered substituting the Italian aft just 5 mins of City's 3-3 draw with Sunderland last weekend.

The forward also engaged in a public row with Aleksandar Kolarov over who should take a free-kick, sparking further criticism of the 4mer Inter Milan player despite his brace helping City 2 claim a point.

Speaking ahead of a vital Premier League clash 4 City @ Arsenal on Sunday, Mancini has accepted why others some might be weary of him. He said: "I can understand it. I told him, 'If you played with me, 10 years ago, I give 2 u every day 1 punch in your head!'

"I think in every big game he played very well. I think his problem is his concentration but I work with him every day.

"I speak with him - not every day becos if not I need a psychologist - but every 2 days I speak with him. He doesn't lose his quality. Mario, as a player, can be 1 of the top in Europe. I don't 1 him 2 lose his talent."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1046354/roberto-mancini-seeking-signings-to-improve-man-city-mentality?cc=4716

Mancini to address City mentality
April 8, 2012

Roberto Mancini believes he needs 2 sign "3 or 4" more players 2 give his ManC squad the winning mentality they require.

ManU r in pole position 2 clinch the title 1s more despite having spent less than their local rivals in recent years, but Mancini feels tat he can complete the project @ City if he is able 2 sign quality players with the right mental approach.

"We lost Yaya & Kolo Toure 4 the African Nations Cup, had some injuries & lost Vincent Kompany, Joleon Lescott & Sergio Aguero in the last 2 games," he said. "Maybe next year if we lose 2 important players, we can hv another 2 good players & we can change."

He added: "Up 2 now, we hv plugged away @ building a strong team, so now I think 3 or 4 more players with a strong mentality will be enough 2 finish it. We maybe need time - but we hv already arrived as 1 of the best teams in Europe.

"The difference with United is in their squad, not their starting 11. Becos they r used 2 always being @ the top, they can play without problems & they don't hv the pressure we hv, becos they hv won everything. When u play against a team like United, tat is the difference - not the players."

The mentality of the City players - Mario Balotelli in particular - has come under the microscope in recent times, with the on-field dissent shown in the 3-3 draw @ home 2 Sunderland fuelling suggestions of feuds within the camp.

SAF has said he "wouldn't allow it" @ his club & added: "If u don't hv unity, u r not playing as a team. The demeanour of a team is important."

Mancini accepts tat City hv something 2 learn fr United in tat respect.

"It is true tat they keep any problems behind closed doors," Mancini said. "I think we need 2 improve in tis way, beos the problems should always stay inside & u should resolve them. We hv tis problem with photographers @ our training ground & we talked abt tis 2 years ago & didn't do anything abt it.

"We need 2 improve tis - we need 2 improve in different situations. We need people around the team who understand tis. We need people 2 understand tat 2 be @ a top club like ManC, u should work hard. You can't give people a chance 2 talk abt you.

"I think United r a strong team. They hv a strong mentality. If we played our best 11 players against their best 11, they would not be better, but they r better as a club in their mentality, only becos they hv won so much.

"They play without problems - tat is the only difference betw them & us. I m happy tat we hv improved as a team in the last year & the title race is not finished.

"With 7 games until the end, nothing is finished. We r a long way ahead of Arsenal in 3rd & 4 tat reason, we hv had a good season until now.

"Maybe we made mistakes @ Swansea & @ home 2 Sunderland last week but after winning all your home matches u can hv a bad game.

"It is impossible 2 win all of your home games. United, in their last 12 games, hv won 11 with 1 draw. They hv done very well in the last 2 months, but football can change in 1 week."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1046363/tottenham-face-rival-interest-for-man-city-star-emmanuel-adebayor?cc=4716

Mancini: Lots of interest in Adebayor
April 8, 2012

Roberto Mancini says there is little chance of Emmanuel Adebayor playing 4 ManC next season but has warned Tottenham Hotspur they will face a fight 4 his signature.

Mancini has offered Adebayor few opportunities since taking charge @ Eastlands, & he was allowed 2 join Real Madrid in the 2010-2011 campaign b4 joining Spurs on a season-long loan in the summer.

He has hit 13 goals 4 Spurs so far but, asked whether there could be a place 4 him @ City, Mancini said: "At tis moment no, becos we hv 4 strikers & it's impossible 4 tis."

Harry Redknapp has made clear tat he would like Adebayor 2 stay @ White Hart Lane on a permanent basis but, while Mancini would be happy 2 let him leave, there r other clubs waiting in the wings.

"Adebayor is playing well & I m happy 4 him," Mancini said. "He's a good guy & a good player & I m happy. If @ the end of the season he 1s 2 stay @ Tottenham, they will buy him, or another team will. There r alot of teams tat 1 Manu."

Spurs hv the option 2 sign Adebayor tis summer but may be unable 2 meet his wage demands.



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1046396/inter-milan-refuse-to-rule-out-move-for-man-city's-mario-balotelli?cc=4716

Inter won't rule out Balotelli
April 8, 2012

Inter Milan director Marco Branca is refusing 2 rule out a summer move 4 Mario Balotelli.

Balotelli left Inter 4 ManC in a €22 million deal in the summer of 2010 &, while he has netted 13 Premier League goals tis season, it is reported tat Roberto Mancini is running out of patience with the Italy striker's lack of discipline.

Both Inter & AC Milan hv regularly been linked with the 21-year-old, & Branca has suggested the Nerazzurri r considering a bid as they plot an overhaul of their ageing squad.

"We'll see in a few months, but we never closed the door 2 him & never will turn our backs on a potential return," Branca told Sky Sport Italia. "We need 2 change next season & find the right mix betw old & new, trying 2 understand wat will be @ our disposal 4 the transfer market.

"We will certainly promote 4 or 5 players fr the youth team & evaluate their capabilities in pre-season training."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1046527/prem:-arsenal-beat-man-city-to-leave-man-utd-eight-points-clear?cc=4716

City hopes hang by a thread
April 8, 2012

ManC's pursuit of the Premier League crown looks 2 be all over aft a late goal fr Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta condemned them 2 defeat @ the Emirates Stadium. Earlier in the day, ManU beat 10-man QPR 2-0.

ManC r now 8 points behind their rivals with 6 games remaining following a 1-0 defeat 2 Arsenal. The result sees Arsenal return 2 3rd place, 5 points clear of 5th-placed Chelsea.

Arsenal had the momentum heading into the match, with 7 wins fr their last 8 league fixtures, & enjoyed the better of an opening period in which City saw key midfielder Yaya Toure limp off with a knee problem. The Gunners pinned City back 4 the majority, & should hv taken the lead on 16 mins - but Robin van Persie's goalbound header was deflected onto the bar by his team-mate Thomas Vermaelen.

City, looking low on confidence, threatened only on occasions, notably when Mario Balotelli - who was lucky 2 be on the pitch, having earlier escaped punishment 4 a knee-high, studs-up tackle on Alex Song - had a half-volley fr 6 yards cleared off the line following an astute corner routine.

Mancini's men found a foothold 2wards the end of the opening period, & were in the ascendancy 4 the 1st 15 mins of the 2nd, only 4 Arsenal 2 stir in2 life, with Song crossing 2 Van Persie, who headed against the post fr 8 yards. Tat chance sparked a period of sustained Arsenal pressure as City, instead of scrapping 4 their lives in the title race, looked sapped of fight.

They should hv been behind on 76 mins, but somehow Vermaelen & Yossi Benayoun managed 2 spurn opportunities fr 3 yards. Arsene Wenger's men got the reward they deserved when Arteta's low drive beat Hart fr 20 yards, & City's misery was compounded when Balotelli received a 2nd yellow in the 90th minute.

In Sunday's earlier game, QPR went down 2 a 2-0 defeat 2 ManU @ Old Trafford aft having had 2 play 75 minutes with 10 men.

United dominated fr the opening whistle on home soil but their breakthrough came courtesy of referee Lee Mason, who awarded a soft 15th-minute penalty & sent off Shaun Derry when the offside Ashley Young fell in the area. Wayne Rooney dispatched the resulting spot-kick &, 2 compound QPR's misery, Derry was sent off.

United later killed the game off thru Paul Scholes, whose 20-yard drive dipped under the over-exposed Paddy Kenny's right hand.



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1046627/man-city's-roberto-mancini:-mario-balotelli-could-be-sold?cc=4716

Mancini: Balotelli could be sold
April 8, 2012

Roberto Mancini says he will "probably'' sell Mario Balotelli tis summer aft the controversial striker was sent off in ManC's Premier League defeat @ Arsenal tat signalled a virtual end 2 their title challenge.

Mancini also appeared 2 suggest Balotelli would not play again 4 him tis season, although the club later claimed he said tat becos he expected the FA 2 throw the book @ the controversial 21-year-old.

Balotelli will serve a ban of @ least 3 matches aft his sending off in tis Sunday's 1-0 defeat @ the Emirates Stadium & Mancini seemed 2 call on the FA 2 take further action against his own player 4 a knee-high challenge on Alex Song tat went unpunished.

Asked 4 how long he he could put up with Balotelli's antics, Mancini said: "I m finished. We hv 6 games & he will not play in the next 6 games.''

Pushed further on whether he would try 2 sell Balotelli @ the end of the season, Mancini replied: "Probably - but I don't know. It depends, becos Balotelli is a fantastic player.

"I can continue 2 play with Mario on the pitch. Every time, we risk 1 sent off, like 2day. But he can score also in the last minute."

Mancini admitted Balotelli had created "big problems'' 4 his team-mates but joked the media would be happy 4 him 2 stay in the Premier League.

"If Mario leaves England, what will u do?'' he said. "You should be happy if Mario stays here. You can write 1, 2 or 3 pages in your newspapers!''

Asked if the authorities should examine the incident with Song tat referee Martin Atkinson & assistant Peter Kirkup took no action over, Mancini said "I hope so'' & admitted the striker deserved a lengthy ban.

Mancini insisted he kept Balotelli on the pitch becos he did not see the tackle on Song until aft the game & defended his decision not 2 substitute him even aft he had been booked 4 another bad challenge on Bacary Sagna.

Mancini, who has known Balotelli since the 4ward was 17, added: "I love him as a guy, I love him as a player, becos I know him. He's not a bad guy. He's a fantastic player.

"But, @ tis moment, I'm very sorry 4 him becos he continues 2 lose his talent, his quality. I hope, 4 him, tat he can understand tat he's in a bad way 4 his future, & he can change his behaviour.''

Mancini had said b4 the game tat if ManU were 2 beat QPR & his side lost @ Arsenal the title race would be over, but aft their 1-0 defeat @ the Emirates the Italian said City will keep on fighting.

When asked if the championship was gone: "No, it's not mathematically (over), but it's clear now tat it's very difficult. We hv a game in 3 days & we will try 2 win. Never say never in football.

"United, in the last 12 games, hv won 11 with 1 draw. They've done incredibly in the last 2 months. But, in football, it can change. 10 days ago, we were 1 point behind. 2day, we r 8 points. Tis can change also 4 them.

"Clearly, they hv more experience than us, so probably it's difficult, but until it's impossible, we need 2 hope.''

Arsenal had the better of the chances & hit the woodwork 3 times b4 Mikel Arteta's 87th-minute winner. The victory lifted Arsene Wenger's men up 2 3rd spot in the table, 2 points ahead of Spurs & five clear of Chelsea & Newcastle in 5th & 6th.

Arteta said: "I think we were the better team over the whole game, we had the most chances. We scored @ the end & 4 us it's a massive game.

"It was so important, Chelsea won yesterday, Newcastle hv been very consistent in the last few games, Tottenham r still in there & it's going 2 be a big fight fr here 2 the end of the season, but we knew tat 2day was 1 of the more difficult games 4 us.

"There was alot 2 play 4 (4 both teams). 4 them it was massive, becos now it will be really tough 4 them 2 catch ManU & 4 us if we lost 2day we would hv 2 teams 2 points behind us with 6 games 2 go. We r so happy.''

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger had every right 2 be as furious with a Balotelli challenge tat could have broken Song's leg.

He said: "Fortunately, he didn't. If the referee had television, he would hv given him a red card. I thought it was a bad tackle. I said 2 my physio, 'Wat happened 2 Song?' becos he said he was touched @ the knee. I thought maybe it was a red card but I didn't know until I saw it.''

Unlike Mancini, Wenger said he could sense Balotelli was on the edge.

"He flirted with 'orange' a few times,'' he said, refusing 2 be drawn on how he would handle the explosive forward. "I don't know him & it's not my job 2 do tat. I don't 1 2 interfere with Mancini's job. Everybody has his cases in his own camp & I hv enough work.''

Asked if the Gunners had ended City's title hopes, he said: "Not completely, no. They cannot afford 2 drop any points now. 1s the team 'smelt the stable', it's difficult 4 them to drop points. In French, you say when a horse smells its stable, it's difficult 2 stop them.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1046746/mario-balotelli-will-not-leave-man-city,-says-agent?cc=4716

Balotelli will not leave City - agent
April 9, 2012

The agent of ManC striker Mario Balotelli is confident the controversial Italian will remain with the club next season.

Balotelli's future was brought in2 question following his send-off against Arsenal in City's 1-0 loss @ the Emirates on Sunday. Immediately aft the Premier League title-denting defeat, manager Roberto Mancini suggested Balotelli would be sold in the summer, but the player's representative believes such predictions may be premature.

"In England, only tabloids write abt Balotelli & I use them 2 clean my car," Mino Raiola told Sky Italia. "People expect always alot fr Mario so everything he does is amplified. Mario 1s 2 do well 4 Mancini, who is a big friend of Balotelli.

"Mancini says Balotelli will be sold tis summer? I don't think so. I will talk 2 the club & Mancini."

Despite Balotelli becoming involved in a series of dangerous challenges throughout the loss 2 Arsenal, Raiola insists the striker felt remorse aft being shown a 2nd yellow card 4 sliding in on Alex Song late in the game.

"I spoke with Balotelli & he was very sorry 4 wat happened 2day," Raiola said. "I didn't see the incident but like Mancini said, things can happen.

"I don't 1 2 discuss the chance tat Balotelli can leave the Premier League. If Mario wanted 2 leave he didn't need 2 do it like tis but simply 2 ask the club."

Raiola, though, did agree tat Balotelli may not play 4 City again tis campaign, with Mancini confirming he does not plan 2 utilise the svcs of his compatriot again. Balotelli is facing a 3-match ban 4 his dismissal @ the weekend, having already been sent-off earlier tis season.

"Mario will receive a big suspension aft tis red card," Raiola said.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1047671/man-city-boss-roberto-mancini:-title-race-not-over-yet?cc=4716

Mancini: Title race not over yet
April 11, 2012

ManC will not give up & will fight until the last moment 2 claim unlikely Premier League title, according 2 manager Roberto Mancini.

Mancini's men led the league 4 the 1st half of the season but hv slipped 8 points behind rivals ManU with 6 games left. The 2 clubs meet in the Manchester derby on April 30 & ahead of Wednesday's game with West Bromwich Albion, the Italian was bullish over suggestions tat the title race was already over.

"It's [the title] not over. In football it's never finished," he said. "4 tis reason, I believe always. But we did a fantastic season & we need 2 finish well.

"It's not easy, but we need 2 think positively. I'm proud of all my players 4 wat we did until 2day. We now need 2 continue 2 win 2 get the maximum points we can. Then we will see.

"I will never say we can't win the league if there is still a chance. Tat is not my life, never. Also last year, if u remember, 6 games 2 the end Chelsea were 6 or 7 points . But they went 2 Manchester 3 games 2 the end 3 points behind. We r professional, we need 2 finish well & we need 2 win the games we hv left."

There is a chance tat United could clinch their 20th championship @ the Etihad Stadium, but Mancini insisted tat he is only focused on his side.

"I don't know tis. I just know 2day we hv 15 points more than we had @ tis stage last year," he said.

"So I can say we did well. Now it's clearly difficult 4 us 2 win the title. But we hope they can lose 3 or 4 points b4 the derby & aft tat we'll see. I repeat, 6 games 2 the end. 18 points. Never say never."



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1047404/man-city's-mario-balotelli-escapes-action-for-alex-song-challenge?cc=4716

[B]Balotelli escapes action
April 10, 2012

The FA will not take any action against Mario Balotelli 4 his challenge on Alex Song during ManC's 1-0 defeat @ Arsenal on Sunday.

Referee Martin Atkinson did not award a free-kick when Balotelli made a knee-high challenge on Song in the 1st half @ Emirates Stadium, but it has now been confirmed tat @ least 1 of the officials did see the incident @ the time & therefore no retrospective action can be taken.

An FA statement read: "Retrospective action in relation 2 the incident involving Mario Balotelli of ManC & Alex Song of Arsenal, which occurred in the 20th minute of Sunday's game, will not be taken.

"Where @ least 1 of the officials has seen the coming 2gether of players retrospective action is not taken, regardless of whether they hv seen the full extent of the challenge.

"Retrospective action can only be taken in scenarios where none of the Match Officials saw the players coming 2gether. The normal scenarios in which retrospective action is taken r 4 'off the ball' incidents.

"Retrospective action was introduced 4 off the ball incidents where there was no contest 4 possession & could not be deemed 2 be re-refereeing an incident.

"In agreement with FIFA, tis is how 'not seen' incidents r dealt with retrospectively in England. It is a policy tat is agreed with all football stakeholders."

Balotelli is preparing 2 serve a 3-match ban aft being sent off in the dying stages of the game against Arsenal. Had he been issued a retrospective red card 4 the challenge on Song, he would hv been suspended 4 a total of 9 matches.

[joew2005]

http://sg.sports.yahoo.com/blogs/fit-to-post-sports/mancini-blame-man-city-implosion-175610055.html

COMMENT: Mancini to blame for Man City collapse

COMMENT
Poor Roberto Mancini.

I can't help but feel 4 the beleaguered ManC manager as his side's Premier League title hopes went up in smoke aft a 1-0 defeat 2 Arsenal on Sunday.

But in truth, the writing was on the wall 4 a while.

Not long ago, the Eastlands outfit appeared 2 be cruising 2wards the title aft establishing a massive 7-point lead @ the top of the EPL table last December. Edin Dzeko was on fire, Sergio Aguero was his chief partner in attack & David Silva was creating havoc @ will with his breath-taking assists.

Fast 4ward to last Sunday.

Bitter neighbours & rivals ManU, find themselves 8 points clear @ the top with just 6 games left. Tis aft the Devils engineered a stunning streak of 8 straight league wins. Surely now, their 20th league title is in the bag.

So wat gives?

Even though credit must go 2 Alex Ferguson 4 masterminding yet another come-fr-behind title push, I can't help but wonder how the wheels fell off 4 City between December & April.

Remember tis was the same set of players tat inflicted a painful 6-1 thrashing of ManU back in October @ Old Trafford -- its heaviest home defeat since 1955.

Let's be honest — given tat Mancini spent a whopping S$400 million on players such as Aguero, Silva, Samir Nasri, Dzeko & Mario Balotelli on top of a squad tat is already glittering with superstars, the Premier League title was there 4 the taking.

In contrast, United's squad tis season was its weakest in years. Arguably, Fergie's biggest "buy" of the season was luring 37-year-old Paul Scholes out of retirement.


So what happened?
The problem with Mancini is tat he's simply 2 nice 4 his own good. His failure 2 control his club's superstars & stamp iron-clad discipline within the dressing room may just end up costing his job.

Look no further than the young & troubled Balotelli.

Mancini has always been a fatherly figure 4 his fellow Italian, but as his manager he never knew when 2 draw the line -- or wield the stick.

Fr throwing darts @ youth players 2 setting his house on fire & even getting involved in reckless car accidents, Mancini stood by Balotelli thru it all, choosing 2 focus on his footballing talent rather than his off-the-field antics.

But the 21-year-old's dismissal on Sunday proved 2 be the final straw 4 Mancini, who like Balotelli, could be living out his final weeks @ Eastlands.

And how can we 4get how Carlos Tevez — the man who Mancini promised would never play 4 him again -- is welcomed back into the 1st-team in an extraordinary turnaround aft spending most of his season @ the beach while his team battled on the pitch.

Let's face it. Ferguson would NEVER hv allowed either player back in2 the fold. But Mancini did. And he is paying the price 4 it.

Past United players who showed even the slightest hint of being 2 big 4 their own boots were unceremoniously shown the Old Trafford door. With the exception of 1 Eric Cantona, no 1 else was sacrosanct -- David Beckham, Paul Ince, Jaap Stam & even Roy Keane just 2 name a few.

And becos Fergie ruled with an iron fist, he enjoyed the utmost respect -- & fear -- fr his players. Nothing was more important than winning on the pitch.

Anything or anyone tat proved an obstacle was removed immediately.


Dealing with mind games, pressure
The other issue is Mancini's inability 2 deal with the pressure & mind games tat comes fr pushing 4 the title in the business end of the season.

Yes, 1 may argue tat the Scot hv been @ the helm 4 decades while Mancini has only been in the job 4 slightly over 2 years.

But tat's where he can learn a thing or 2 fr the Special 1.

Like Mancini, Jose Mourinho was expected 2 deliver instant success @ Chelsea aft arriving in 2004. And deliver he did.

In his 1st season in charge, the Portuguese led the Blues 2 their 1st league title in 50 years & they went on 2 defend their Premier League crown the following year.

So how did he do it?

Mourinho was & is a media magnet, so much so tat if he chose, he could calibrate his every word & action 2 steal the media attention off his then Chelsea team & leave his players 2 fully focus on their game.

Mancini, on the other hand, has yet 2 master tis art. Instead of diverting the media pack away fr his title-chasing wannabes, he only added fire 2 fuel with the entire hoopla surrounding Tevez & Balotelli.

The Patrick Vieira circus didn't help aft the former City midfielder & now the club's football development executive labelled Paul Scholes' comeback fr retirement as a "desperate move".

Nice try, but no 1 beats Fergie at mind games.

So wat do ManC fans in Singapore think?

Stuart Yim, City fan 4 8 years, is pleased with a 2nd-place finish but believes Mancini is still the man 2 lead the club 2 the title next season.

He told Yahoo! Singapore: "2 be honest, we hv improved fr last season where we finished 3rd. So I believe it's a matter of time b4 we win the title.

"I still hv faith in Mancini as I believe he has done a great job so far & he should be given @ least 1 more season 2 win it 4 City."

Julian Liow, City fan for 5 years, is not as forgiving, saying, "2 let the title slip away in such manner shows the quality of the manager.

2 be honest any manager would hv achieved wat Mancini did with the kind of squad & money he is given."

Naz Maheed, City fan for 3 years, believes the off-the-pitch distractions hv proven 2 be the club's downfall.

He said: "The Tevez saga & the foolishness of Balotelli has unsettled the team & prevented them fr focusing on the task @ hand.

"Mancini should hv got rid of Tevez & there is no place 4 jokers like Balotelli @ the club. Without these 2 players & with a few more signings, I believe we will finally win the title next season."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1048352/man-united-would-never-sign-mario-balotelli---meulensteen?cc=4716

Utd would never sign Balotelli - coach
April 13, 2012

ManU 1st-team coach Rene Meulensteen says SAF would never sign a player like Mario Balotelli.

In a scathing attack on their Premier League rivals, Meulensteen claims ManC's title bid has wavered becos Roberto Mancini's side lack team spirit.

Balotelli's future remains in doubt following the controversial striker's red card against Arsenal @ the weekend, & Meulensteen has made it clear the Italian would never play @ Old Trafford.

"City do not hv a well-balanced team. They only hv individuals who play 4 themselves," Meulensteen told Voetbal International. "You can see tat City lack the right team spirit.

"There is no chance of Balotelli playing 4 ManU. A player who gets up 2 the antics he does has no place @ our club. I don't believe tat SA would sign a player like Balotelli. We shouldn't get in ppl like him - they only bring frustration."

United saw their lead slip to 5 points on Wednesday aft a surprise defeat @ Wigan, but Meulensteen is confident United will go on 2 win a 20th league title.

"United r accustomed 2 the pressure involved in going 4 the title," he said. "City r in a position 2 win the league 4 the 1st time in a long while but tat is breaking them up. I thought they wouldn't hold out 2 the end."



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1048430/mancini:-norwich-match-tougher-than-united-?cc=4716

Mancini: Norwich tougher than United
April 13, 2012

ManC boss Roberto Mancini has claimed Saturday's trip 2 Norwich could be harder than the derby against Premier League leaders ManU later tis month.

City will cut United's lead @ the top of the table 2 just 2 points if they win @ Carrow Road, with the Red Devils not scheduled 2 play Aston Villa until Sunday afternoon, but Mancini is wary tat the game comes just 3 days aft the 4-0 win over West Brom.

"United is easy," Mancini said. "We could lose or we could win but it is an easy game. Against United or Chelsea, our concentration will be 100%.

"Norwich will be really tough becos we hv only had 2 days 2 recover aft West Brom."

A playful Mancini, whose entire press conference was conducted in tat confusing manner, then bizarrely backed the comments of United assistant manager Rene Meulensteen tat the Red Devils hv greater togetherness.

"I agree with him," said Mancini. "They hv big experience & r a fantastic team. We r nothing.

"But sometimes the best team, or the team tat has balance, doesn't win."

Meanwhile, Mancini also confirmed midfielder Yaya Toure could be available on Saturday despite missing the midweek win over West Brom with a knee injury picked up during last weekend's defeat @ Arsenal.

"Yaya is getting better," said Mancini. "We will decide 2morrow but there is a chance he could play."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1049790/manchester-city-boss-roberto-mancini-coy-over-carlos-tevez-future?cc=4716

Mancini coy over Tevez future
April 16, 2012

Roberto Mancini is not confident Carlos Tevez will remain @ ManC next season despite the controversial striker's recent excellent form.

Tevez went AWOL for 3 months aft falling out with Mancini but the pair hv now patched up their relationship & Tevez has returned 2 the City side, starring in the club's 6-1 hammering of Norwich @ the weekend. The 28-year-old scored 3 goals & set Sergio Aguero up 4 another as City turned the heat on title rivals ManU with a ruthless display @ Carrow Road.

The 4mer West Ham striker offered Mancini an olive branch when he thanked the City boss, & his team-mates, 4 welcoming him back aft an apology, but the Italian is not 100% sure whether Tevez will stay @ the Etihad Stadium beyond tis summer.

When asked if Tevez would feature 4 City next campaign, Mancini said: "I don't know. I don't know tis.

"It depends. Now I think it is important tat we think abt the next 4 games. Aft tat, @ the end of the season, we will see wat can happen with all the players."

Mancini insists tat he & his players nw hv no issue with Tevez playing 4 the club despite his antics in Munich last September, where he reportedly refused 2 come off the bench.

"There is no problem," Mancini said. "It is in the past."

Mancini still insists his team r out of the title race despite only trailing United by 5 points, but Tevez disagrees.

"Of course we can still win the title," Tevez told City TV. "Obviously we hv 2 put pressure on United. We just need 2 continue 2 play the way we r & we will arrive @ the top. Mathematically it's not impossible."

Tevez also expressed his gratitude 2ward Mancini 4 giving him a way back in 2 the City team.

"2day (Saturday) was important 4 the people, 4 the club & 4 the fans, 4 my colleagues, 4 Roberto," he said. "We all went thru some difficult times... I m happy 4 every1."

[jamez8]

You guys think that ManU can keep their winning ways? And what are your take on the upcoming Manchester derby by the end of the month?

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1050859/james-milner:-no-problems-with-manchester-city-team-spirit?cc=4716

Milner: No problem with City team spirit
April 19, 2012

James Milner has hit back @ ManU coach Rene Meulensteen's suggestion tat ManC "only hv individuals who play 4 themselves" & lack team spirit.

Meulensteen claimed last week tat City were stuttering in the Premier League title race becos they do not hv the same 2getherness in their squad as United.

However, Milner believes tat he & his team-mates hv shown plenty of determination tis season & rejected the notion tat they r just a group of egotistical individuals.

"Look @ the season we hv had & winning the FA Cup last year," Milner said in The Sun. "Tat 1st trophy as a group was great & u can look @ games tis year when we hv been losing & shown character & fight.

"Even in the FA Cup game against United we were a man down & losing heavily @ half-time. But we came back & could easily hv got a draw out of the game.

"I cannot see a team of individuals doing tat. You need tat spirit, determination & 2getherness 2 get thru the low points of the season & we hv done tat.

"We r playing good football, had a great performance @ the weekend & all season we hv fought in all competitions & will do tat until the end."

Milner himself has had 2 swallow his pride a number of times tis season, having made just 3 starts in the past 2 months & been an unused substitute 4 City's last 2 games. But he insists he has no problem with being rotated by Roberto Mancini if the end result is City picking up silverware.

"It's frustrating @ times becos u 1 2 play every game & it's not going 2 happen. But tat's your will 2 win & your drive as a footballer," he added. "It's abt the team, not the individuals. It's abt City winning trophies & the rest doesn't matter.

"You 1 2 play with, & against, the best & become the best player u can be. Playing with the kind of players we hv here will improve u. You need competition 4 places & I knew it would be difficult 2 play every single game.

"But u hv 2 back your own ability 2 be a big figure in the dressing room, improve as a player & contribute as much as u can 2 the success of the team."



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1050206/mario-balotelli-adamant-he-won%27t-leave-manchester-city-in-summer?cc=4716

Balotelli: I won't leave City in summer
April 17, 2012

Controversial ManC forward Mario Balotelli has insisted tat he has no intention of leaving the club in the summer, while expressing his admiration 4 current manager Roberto Mancini.

Balotelli's future is never far fr the agenda, but came sharply in2 focus aft his latest indiscretion - a sending off in a dismal performance against Arsenal tat left Mancini, usually his staunchest defender, acknowledging tat he could be offloaded @ the end of the campaign.

The Italian quickly retracted tat statement, & Balotelli has now also moved 2 dismiss speculation linking him with a return 2 Italy @ the next available opportunity.

"My future? Why do u always talk of Inter & Milan 4 me? I'm @ City & I hv no intention of changing shirt," Balotelli told La Gazzetta dello Sport. "Now I m just thinking abt winning the title becos I m sure tat United will make mistakes.

"Certainly in the match with us, then, who knows.

"[Inter owner Massimo] Moratti always speaks well of me. I enjoy it, he has known me since I was 15. I thank him 4 tat, but I m now @ ManC & I see no other possibilities."

Balotelli admits tat moving 2 England has been a challenging experience 4 him in a number of ways, but he feels working under Mancini is the best possible situation 4 him 2 be in.

"When I was @ Inter Milan I called my mother 2 solve every little problem. Now I hv 2 go it alone," he noted. "1st of all I need 2 improve as a player. I m lucky 2 work with Mancini. He's 1 of the best coaches in the world, maybe the best.

"After my red card against Arsenal he feared a long ban so he spoke abt me with some harsh words.

"But we hv explained things 2 each other. I know he believes in me, as he always has done."

Balotelli's antics - both on & off the pitch - hv led some 2 suggest he needs psychiatric help but the 20-year-old gave such ideas short shrift, saying instead tat he felt misrepresented in the media & hoped over time they would begin 2 judge him only on his football.

"A psychologist 4 me? I believe psychologists r important. Sometimes they can be very useful, but I don't need 1 of them," he said. "Every day there is an exaggeration abt me & I would like it 2 stop. I 1 2 be judged 4 wat I do on the field.

"I m a shy & simple guy. I like 2 hv fun with my friends & I always try not 2 bother any1."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1051707/roberto-mancini:-tevez-could've-helped-man-city-title-challenge?cc=4716

Tevez could've helped title bid
April 21, 2012

Manager Roberto Mancini has hinted ManC might be in a better position in the title race if Carlos Tevez had returned 2 action sooner.

Tevez has struck 4 goals in his 1st 2 starts since rejoining the squad following his well-documented dispute with the club, including a hat-trick in last week's 6-1 hammering of Norwich.

4 much of his absence fr the side, which stretched 2 almost 6 months, the Argentinian was not missed as Sergio Aguero, Edin Dzeko & Mario Balotelli regularly found the net.

But a collective loss of form & crucial injuries in March saw City concede the initiative in the Premier League title race 2 ManU, while Tevez sat on the sidelines, still lacking match fitness.

Asked abt Tevez's absence, Mancini said: "Maybe there r some moments u hv 2 strikers tat maybe r not in form, but u hv another 2.

"Tis is the difference, it is clear - but we did everything in November & December 2 try 2 take Carlo here again.

"Without Carlos we scored alot of goals, but it is normal if u hv players like Carlos u can score more goals."

Tevez has linked superbly with his countryman & top scorer Aguero since his return 2 the starting line-up & with Balotelli suspended & Dzeko without a goal since February, the pair could again be in tandem 4 Sunday's trip 2 Wolves.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1053287/city's-yaya-toure-cleared-for-manchester-derby?cc=4716

Toure cleared for Manchester derby
April 24, 2012

Yaya Toure has been cleared 2 play in Monday's Manchester derby against United, & he warned the Red Devils tat the Premier League may already be out of their hands, despite the fact they lead the title race with 3 games remaining.

Toure watched on as United threw away a 4-2 lead in the final 10 mins of Sunday's game with Everton, drawing 4-4. Tat results means City can win the title if they triumph in their remaining matches of the campaign.

Crucially the Manchester derby is up next, & if United avoid defeat in tat fixture they will be firm fav 2 defend their Premier League crown. However, Toure is of the opinion tat it is destined 4 City 2 lift their 1st top flight title since 1968.

"Tis club has wanted the Premier League 4 a long time," Toure said. "In my opinion we hv somebody who is trying 2 help us win the title tis year.

"To see United lead 4-2 & end up 4-4 was incredible. Sunday was an unbelievable day 4 us. 2 see United drop points @ home is strange, I find it quite surprising. Now we hv a 2nd chance.

"We hv the team 2 win all the games. We hv the quality & we hv the mentality 2 win all these games. We hv 2 win all 3 games & then we will see wat will happen aft."

Toure faced the prospect of missing out on wat SAF calls "the biggest derby of my reign", aft footage was studied of a photo tat appeared 2 suggest he gestured @ Wolves fans during Sunday's 2-0 victory. The midfielder has been cleared of any wrongdoing, & he is feeling few nerves ahead of Monday's battle.

"It will be an unbelievable match & I'm very excited," Toure said. "We r @ home but if u look @ the record of United, they r very strong away & it will be very difficult."

[waiwaiz]

man city fans............time to show some support....:p

Go........Go........Go.........ole..ole .......ole.....

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1057568/roberto-mancini:-losing-carlos-tevez-won't-decide-title?cc=4716

Mancini: Tevez saga won't decide title
April 29, 2012

Roberto Mancini insists the prolonged absence of Carlos Tevez earlier in the season did not cause ManC 2 slip behind title rivals United ahead of Monday's crucial derby.

Tevez has returned 2 the City starting line-up in their past 3 matches, & his 4 goals in these appearances hv seen Mancini's men move back in2 contention following their mid-season slump. City now lie 3 points behind United, but Mancini refuses 2 concede tat Tevez's 6-month absence aft their infamous falling out in Munich last September has played a part in the title race.

"No, I don't think tis," said Mancini. "It was a strange situation 6 months ago & I said 2 Carlo, alot of times, apologise & it would be finished. Carlos didn't 1 2 do tis, he wanted 2 leave the club in December.

"But if we r here it is also becos the other players were playing very well. (Sergio) Aguero scored alot of goals, (Edin) Dzeko the same, (Mario) Balotelli, all the team played well. If not, it is impossible we would be here @ tis moment."

Tevez, who has also made 4 substitute appearances since returning fr his unauthorised sojourn 2 Argentina, is yet 2 complete 90 mins despite making such an impact.

"Carlos is not 100%, becos it is impossible 4 him 2 be 100% aft 6 months without playing," Mancini said. "But he has experience, he is a clever player. He has scored 4 or 5 goals & tis is important.

"It is difficult 4 him 2 play aft 6 months. 4 tis reason he played only the last 2 or 3 games. I think he can find his best form next season, aft pre-season."

When asked if tat meant Mancini wanted 2 keep Tevez, who is widely expected 2 leave in the summer, the Italian was coy.

He said: "I think he has a contract with ManC, but I don't think in tis moment it is important 2 talk abt the future 4 every1."

Meanwhile, City's other controversial striker Mario Balotelli is hoping 2 force his way back into the action aft missing the last 3 games through suspension.

With tat merely being the latest in a long line of misdemeanours, the 21-year-old's future @ the club was thrown in2 doubt. But Mancini has not ruled out recalling his fellow Italian 4 Monday's crunch clash, which could see City return 2 the top with 2 games remaining with victory.

"Mario is a player like the other players. He is available 4 Monday & aft we decide," Mancini said.

"In 1 game Mario can do everything. He can score 2 or 3 goals if he decides tis. Tis is the manager's problem."

Mancini has previously said he cannot trust Balotelli but thinks he could in such a big game, saying: "I think in tis game yes - only in tis game!"

[lugi]

Most Liverpool fans like myself will be rooting for City! :D

[lonesome1]

MANCHESTER CITY 3 - 1 MANCHESTER UTD

My humble prediction!:D

[lonesome1]

MANCHESTER CITY 3 - 1 MANCHESTER UTD
My humble prediction!:D

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1058383/title-will-make-manchester-city-unstoppable,-says-patrice-evra?cc=4716

Title will make City unstoppable - Evra
April 30, 2012

Patrice Evra has warned his ManU team-mates 2 expect a period of ManC dominance shld they win the Premier League, with the defender claiming the title will lead 2 a "revolution" @ Eastlands.

City entertain neighbours United in a crunch Manchester derby on Monday knowing tat 3 points @ home will see them move top of the table. If SAF's side win then they will go 6 points clear with 2 games remaining.

With the title race reaching fever pitch, Evra is fully aware of wat is @ stake & he acknowledges wat lifting the trophy will mean 4 City shld they manage 2 deny United a 20th league title.

"Beware. If City start winning it will be hard 2 stop them," he told the Sun. "We hv 2 stop them b4 they start, becos they can go far. That's how a big team starts, the 1st trophy they win.

"They won the FA Cup last year & if they win the league they'll get 2 much confidence. If they win the Premier League, a page is turned & it's a revolution, & revolutions hv always been abt ManU.

"If u play 4 ManU, if you're a leader or a captain, it's 2 play in a match like tis. You hv 2 accept your responsibility. Whether it's me, or some1 like Ryan Giggs, if u ask them which title they will appreciate the most, it will be tis 1."

[CrisRonaldo7]

they r two games away frm the title. after beating man utd, i cant see them losing to newcastle n qpr.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=318266&cc=4716

City take control of title race

The Premier League crown may well be heading 2 the blue half of Manchester aft City claimed a title-tilting 1-0 victory over United @ the Etihad Stadium on Monday.

The result means tat if City win their final 2 games - away at Newcastle(6/5) on Sunday & @ home 2 QPR(13/5) on the last day - they will be crowned champions 4 the 1st time since 1968.
manu's last 2 games r @ home against Swansea(6/5) & away against Sunderland(13/5).

With such high stakes it was no surprise they started extremely nervously, but Vincent Kompany's header on the stroke of half-time loosened United's stranglehold in a game City richly deserved 2 win.

The pressure looked 2 tell on SAF, who approached Roberto Mancini in a finger-jabbing fury aft Nigel de Jong had brought down Danny Welbeck in the 2nd half.

The Italian responded in kind & @ 1 point only 4th official Mike Jones stood betw the pair, who aft repeated clashes, were eventually pulled apart by their backroom staff.

Tempers had cooled @ the final whistle enough 4 the customary handshake 2 take place, although the fire mattered little 2 City.

Just 4 games aft tat Arsenal debacle, aft which their hopes appeared dead, City r back on top & agonisingly close 2 their holy grail aft completing a league double over their great rivals 4 only the 2nd time in 42 years.

Although the team sheets indicated Ferguson had adopted a cautious approach & Mancini a more attack-minded 1, in fact the opening exchanges provided an alternate view.

With his midfield reinforced by the introduction of Park Ji-sung 2 a Premier League starting line-up 4 the 1st-time since January, Ferguson's side quickly got into their stride & looked capable of carving out a decent opportunity or 2.

However, Nani wasted their clearest opportunity when he ignored Phil Jones' overlapping burst & let fly fr 35 yards with a shot tat was hopelessly off-target.

City meanwhile began sluggishly, their midfield seemingly incapable of stringing a succession of passes 2gether with any regularity.

Samir Nasri was the man who sparked them into life with a couple of mazy dribbles as the hosts started 2 get near the byline, which always gives defences cause 4 concern.

Sergio Aguero screwed a volley wide, then Pablo Zabaleta seized on an opportunity he would hv been better leaving 4 Nasri & his shot rolled thru 2 David de Gea.

Aft all the hype, it was hardly a classic, although as the clock ticked down 2wards half-time, the United camp presumably reflected they were quite happy @ tat.

So, 2 go behind in stoppage time in such orthodox fashion would hv been particularly galling 4 the visitors.

De Gea's frailties under the high ball r well known by now. When David Silva curled over the 2nd of successive corners, a stronger, more confident goalkeeper might hv come 2 punch.

Instead, he left it 2 his defenders.

Chris Smalling, like Park, making his 1st start since January aft Jonny Evans was ruled out thru injury, momentarily lost Kompany on their run fr the edge of the box & was still marginally out of position when the Belgian rose 2 power home fr 6 yards.

It was a devastating goal 4 United 2 lose as there had been no obvious indication they were likely 2 score.

Wayne Rooney looked particularly out of sorts, isolated up front & generally unhappy with the buffeting he was receiving, which had only drawn 1 yellow card 4 Kompany.

The 2nd half was only 12 mins old when Ferguson offered his star man some badly-needed support, replacing Park with Welbeck.

Immediately b4 the change though United might hv found themselves 2 down when De Gea came 4 a corner without getting near it & Nasri ended up curling wide of the far post.

Even when the Red Devils did build some attacking momentum, their final pass was either off-target or overhit, ensuring Hart was not tested.

However, with his side well capable of grabbing a 2nd, Mancini's decision 2 replace Carlos Tevez with De Jong hinted @ containment, a very dangerous ploy against this particular set of opponents.

Yaya Toure did thrash a long-range effort wide, his shot close enough 2 hv De Gea scrambling across his goal.

And, in truth, United seemed 2 hv precious few ideas abt prising their opponents open.

De Jong's foul on Welbeck brought a yellow card 4 the Dutchman & sparked the furious touchline row betw Ferguson & Mancini. Peace was eventually restored but the visitors failed 2 feed off their manager's fire.

Toure came agonisingly close 2 grabbing a 2nd 4 the Blues & De Gea made an excellent save 2 deny Gael Clichy.

And despite 5 minutes' stoppage time, the Blues cruised home, & the songs of celebration began with City 2 games fr glory.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1059607/man-utd-boss-sir-alex-ferguson-explains-roberto-mancini-spat?cc=4716

Fergie explains Mancini spat
April 30, 2012

SAF accused Roberto Mancini of "badgering" the officials throughout ManU's 1-0 derby defeat 2 ManC on Monday.

Ferguson & Mancini clashed in the 2nd half aft a tackle by Nigel De Jong on Danny Welbeck, 4 which the Dutchman was booked.

"He was badgering the official the whole game - the 4th official & the linesman. As soon as I go out there, he's up again," Ferguson told Sky Sports. "He was complaining abt referees the other week... he can't be complaining 2night, that's 4 sure."

Mancini preferred not 2 get into a war of words with his United counterpart, merely explaining: "I don't remember. I told the fourth official it was a foul 4 us, not 4 them."

City won 1-0 thanks 2 Vincent Kompany's winner, which came aft he lost marker Chris Smalling. The result means City r top of the table on goal difference, with only 2 games remaining.

"It was competitive. Not many chances in the match. We're disappointed we never tested their goalkeeper," Ferguson said. "Our crossing was poor. They were more of a threat becos they had the ball more around our box.

"If u lose a goal @ a set-piece @ tis level, you've only got yourselves 2 blame 4 tat. It was a bad time 2 concede becos there was nothing really happening in tat 1st half."

City now must beat Newcastle & QPR 2 take the title, & Ferguson said United may be left 2 rue their 4-4 draw @ home 2 Everton, when they tossed away a 2-goal lead in the last 10 mins.

"They're in the driving seat now with only 2 games of football left. It's not over, particularly as we've got the same number of points, but an 8-goal advantage is a significant advantage 4 them.

"I think we look @ last Saturday as the worst [setback], in the Everton game. We should never hv thrown tat away."



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1059371/man-city-captain-vincent-kompany-warns-title-race-not-over?cc=4716

Kompany: Title race not over
April 30, 2012

Vincent Kompany said he was "absolutely buzzing" aft his goal gave ManC victory over ManU but insists the title race is not yet over.

Kompany headed home on the stroke of half-time 2 give City a 1-0 derby victory & go top of the table on goal difference with 2 games of the season remaining.

Asked how he was feeling, Kompany told Sky Sports: "Absolutely buzzing. I don't think we've got a word 4 it.

"We've been waiting 4 it. It's far fr over & we know tat, but 2 give our fans 2 wins over United tis season... we hv 2 finish it off & we hv 2 do it over the next 2 games.

"Some1 texted me 2day & said he thought I was going 2 score the goal, & I thought he was a lunatic!

"4 us 2 get tis result, we wanted it so bad. It all comes down 2 the dream we had when we were children, & we all 1 it so much."

Roberto Mancini warned tat City cannot afford 2 drop points against Champions League hopefuls Newcastle in their next game & insists United remain the title favourites.

"We r happy but next Sunday we hv another very difficult game," Mancini said. "We deserved 2 win, we had chances, we played well, we had chances 2 score a 2nd goal. They had no chances 2 score. It was difficult, though, becos United r a top team... It stayed risky until the end.

"It's important we play a good game against Newcastle becos [United] play an easy game against Swansea. 4 now we r top of the league but United hv a light advantage."