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Borussia Dortmund consider move for on-loan Liverpool midfielder Sahin
The Turkey international's career has stuttered since he left the German champions in 2011 for Real Madrid, but BVB are interested in bringing him back to Signal Iduna Park
Jan 2, 2013 2:20:00 PM
By Ewan Roberts
Borussia Dortmund are interested in bringing Nuri Sahin, currently on loan from Real Madrid at Liverpool, back to the Signal Iduna Park - the club he left in 2011.
The Turkey international joined los Blancos after lifting the Bundesliga title with Dortmund, but struggled to establish himself in Jose Mourinho's team.
He moved to Anfield on loan at the start of this season, but after showing early promise he has since found his playing time limited, dropping behind Jordan Henderson in the Reds' pecking order.
Now the reigning German champions are pursuing the possibility of bringing Sahin back to Dortmund, the place where he began his career.
"Nuri is one of ours and we're closely monitoring his situation," Dortmund director Michael Zorc told Bild.
"The problem in Liverpool is he is not playing in his best position.
"We have previously said that we might make a move if he says he only wants to play at Dortmund. We have to remain realistic, though. Nothing has changed in that regard."
Sahin has started just seven league matches for Liverpool, leading to speculation that Brendan Rodgers could pull the plug on Sahin's stay at Anfield in January.
Schalke rocked by Afellay injury blow
The midfielder has been plagued by physical problems in the past few seasons, and his club fear he could now miss another two months of action
Bayern Munich one of Europe's best, insists Muller
The versatile attacker is optimistic about the Bavarians' chances in the Champions League, and has hailed his side's strength in depth
Heynckes hints at summer departure from Bayern Munich
The Die Roten boss, whose contract runs out in June 2013, has left his future at the club open but promises to give everything for the second half of the season
Chelsea and Bayern Munich lead the market for Pep Guardiola's return
The former Barcelona boss confirmed that he intends to return to management next season with Stamford Bridge or Allianz Arena the most likely destinations
Van der Vaart: I expect more of myself
The Netherlands international has reflected on Hamburg's first half of the campaign and believes there is still room for improvement in his game suggesting he could get more goals
'I simply had to take the offer from Tottenham' - Holtby excited by Spurs switch
The Germany international will move to north London in the summer and says he could not turn down the chance to move to the Premier League and "a big club in Europe"
Klopp: Dortmund are no worse than last season
The successful coach believes the titleholders are still the same team that dominated the league last term, and is full of ambition ahead of the second half of the season
Heynckes: Bayern play more attractively than ever before
The 67-year-old feels that his hard work at the Allianz Arena is starting to pay off, and he has insisted that his possible departure in the summer will not affect the team
Tottenham could sign Holtby in January transfer window
Schalke managing director Horst Heldt has indicated that the Bundesliga club would be prepared to consider selling the midfielder ahead of his summer switch to White Hart Lane
Shaqiri: I want to become a key figure at Bayern Munich
The midfielder has been largely restricted to cameo appearances since joining the club from Basel, but is hungry to make an impression in the second half of the season
Subotic to sign Borussia Dortmund extension until 2016
The Serbia international is on the verge of inking a new deal with the Bundesliga champions, but could be out of action for three weeks due to injury
Perisic leaves Dortmund for Wolfsburg
The versatile attacker has put pen to paper on his move to the Volkswagen Arena side after completing his medical on Sunday afternoon
Carvajal open to 'dream' Real Madrid return
The Spain Under-21 international would be willing to make the move back to the Santiago Bernabeu after leaving the club during the summer
Lahm: Egos have to take a back seat
The experienced defender has stressed that there is no room for unhappy players at the Bavarians, and wants to start the second half of the season on a high
It would be a mistake for Turan to leave Atletico Madrid - Diego
Wolfsburg's Brazilian midfielder believes that his former Rojiblancos team-mate should remain at the club and has praised the quality of the Turkey international
Sammer fails to rule out Guardiola arrival at Bayern Munich
The Bavarian official lauded coach Jupp Heynckes for his work this term, but remained coy over potential moves for the ex-Barcelona man who brought so much success to the Liga side
Van der Vaart: Hamburg are my replacement family
The midfielder is trying to get back on track after family issues and heaped praise on the German club for their support throughout all of his problems
Holtby: I am fulfilling my dream by joining Tottenham
The 22-year-old midfielder is leaving Schalke for Spurs in the summer after signing a pre-contract agreement, but has promised to give his all for the Bundesliga side until then
Arsenal defender Djourou joins Hannover on loan until end of the season
The 25-year-old centre-back moves to the Bundesliga after only featuring twice for the Gunners this season, and having not played in the Premier League during this campaign
Werder Bremen keen to keep on-loan Chelsea starlet De Bruyne
The Bundesliga side's coach Thomas Schaaf has outlined the club's wish to keep the Belgium international winger, who has impressed in his short stint there, beyond this season
Tottenham new boy Holtby a surprise package for Premier League
The Schalke midfielder's contractual situation prompted a race to secure his signature, which Spurs won after the promising player put pen to paper on a pre-contract agreement
Wambach named 2012 Fifa Women's World Player of the Year
The American forward has been rewarded for her performances over the year by beating Brazil international and five-time winner Marta to the award
Jan 7, 2013 8:15:00 PM
By Patrick Gleeson
Marta, Alex Morgan y Abby Wambach
Abby Wambach has won the Fifa Women's World Player of the Year for 2012.
The 32-year old was voted the winner of the award by both the captains and the coaches of the 209 Fifa Members, as well as selected members of the media.
The striker beat Brazil's Marta into second place despite the Tyreso player leading her club to a league title, while American counterpart Alex Morgan finished third.
Wambach has already collected the US Soccer Athlete of the Year award on five occasions, as well as winning the Bronze Boot award at the 2011 World Cup along with the Silver Ball, and been given the ESPN ESPY trophy for her goal in the same competition.
Second-placed Marta, 26, is one of the most prolific players in the women's game, and scored 12 goals in 21 games for her club. She also featured for Brazil during the 2012 Olympics, although they were unable to progress further than the quarter-finals.
Morgan, Wambach's strike partner, created five assists during the London Olympics which won her the American Sportswoman of the Year award.
Eintracht Frankfurt tell Bayern Munich that Rode is not for sale
The former Kickers Offenbach midfielder has caught the attention of several Bundesliga sides, but his current club are determined to hold on to their star
Zorc delighted with Schmelzer's contract extension
The club's sporting director has emphasised the importance of the Germany international, and was pleased with the defender's decision to ink a new deal
Siem de Jong reveals Bundesliga dream
The Ajax midfielder has openly expressed his desire to join his brother, Luuk, in Germany, but says he is in no rush to leave his current club any time soon
Dortmund re-sign Sahin on 18-month loan
The Turkey star left BVB for Real Madrid in 2011, but was never able to showcase his best form at either the Bernabeu, or during a spell at Liverpool, and has now returned home
Klopp dismisses Real Madrid rumours
The 45-year-old has stressed the Blancos are not an option for him at the moment, while also taking the time to discuss Nuri Sahin's future
Kirchhoff: I want to win trophies with Bayern Munich
The centre-back has put pen to paper on a deal that will see him move to the Allianz Arena on a free transfer at the end of the season and he is already looking to the future
Juventus turn down Wolfsburg offer for Quagliarella
The Italy international has caught the attention of the Bundesliga side, but his current club have no intention of selling the striker
I'm happy to stay at Bremen, insists Hunt
The attacking midfielder has said he feels comfortable at the Bundesliga outfit and will not be swayed by incentives at other sides, though, talks of a new deal are premature
Badstuber: Whining won't help me recover from this setback
The Bayern Munich centre-back suffered a serious knee injury in December but remains positive about his recovery, and aims to play again before the end of this season
Tottenham not looking to bring Holtby in during January, reveals Villas-Boas
The midfielder will seemingly stick to his original summer arrival date, while William Gallas is unlikely to depart during the current window but Jake Livermore could leave on loan
Kehl realistic over Dortmund's Champions League ambitions
The veteran captain is ignoring suggestions that his side are favourites to conquer Europe this season, and has accepted their Bundesliga chances are slim
Tymoshchuk hints at Bayern exit
The experienced midfielder could leave the Allianz Arena side in the winter transfer window as he has been struggling to get regular first team action
Ambitious Gotze happy at Dortmund but wants more titles
The playmaker says he cannot see a reason to move in the foreseeable future but admits he cannot predict where his ambition for further titles will take him
Gomez: Bayern Munich not champions yet
The Germany international feels that the Bavarians have made progress since last term, but has warned that the title race is not over yet
Dortmund's Subotic out for up to six weeks with hamstring tear
BVB will be without one of their first-choice centre-backs while the Serbian recovers from a hamstring injury
Real Madrid's Mesut Ozil named best German international by fans
The Santiago Bernabeu playmaker received nearly a third of the vote, putting him well ahead of Lazio's Miroslav Klose and Dortmund's Marco Reus
Klopp: Bayern can only give title away themselves
The Dortmund trainer concedes that die Roten are firmly in the driving seat and says he would be happy with a top-three finish after a poor first half to the season
Holtby may struggle in the Premier League, says Eberl
The sporting director of the Germany international's former club, Borussia Monchengladbach, believes the 22-year-old may fail to cope with the added physicality in England
Bender: Bayer blocked my move to Bayern
The Germany midfielder admitted that he spoke to Jupp Heynckes' side about a summer transfer while he believes he can win some silverware to catch up with brother Sven's haul
Subotic: Borussia Dortmund have a bright future
The Serbia defender believes there is much more to come from the German titleholders and is pleased to have inked a new deal with BVB
Huntelaar: I had to make a choice between Schalke & England
The prolific striker recently signed a contract extension with the Bundesliga side, but he has admitted that he did think about a move to the Premier League
Schmelzer: BVB don't want to spoil good work in Champions League against Shakhtar
The wing-back has set his sights on Champions League success, while admitting that BVB might have fallen too far behind to successfully defend their Bundesliga title
Bayern dismiss Guardiola rumours
Reports from Italy suggested that the successful coach is on his way to the Bundesliga giants, but they have insisted no agreement is in place yet
Robben: I do not fear losing Bayern starting berth
The Dutchman is raring to go again after a lengthy injury layoff and is confident that he will soon be an important first team player once more at the Bavarians
Huntelaar: I received offers from England
The prolific striker says that several Premier League clubs were after his signature, and adds that he dreams of ending his career at Ajax
Bayern Munich must show more presence - Sammer
The club's sporting director has questioned the ambition of the current squad, despite leading the Bundesliga by nine points
Messi is an example to follow, says Reus
The Germany international believes his Borussia Dortmund team-mates must emulate the Barcelona star's consistency on the pitch, and is looking forward to facing Shakhtar Donetsk
Gotze: Dortmund don't pay attention to Mourinho praise
The Germany international is refusing to think about the Real Madrid boss' claims that they are Champions League favourites and is taking the competition one step at a time
Schweinsteiger: Bundesliga title is Bayern's main goal
The Germany international prefers domestic success over European glory this season, while he thinks Borussia Dortmund can go far in the Champions League
Sahin: I was very nervous ahead of Dortmund comeback
The midfielder, on loan from Real Madrid, received playing time in the friendly against Mainz, and felt quite anxious ahead of his return after an 18-month absence
Sunday, January 13, 2013
15:40
Howedes denies criticising Keller after 5-0 Bayern defeat
The Schalke captain has rejected allegations that his comments after their heavy friendly loss to the Bundesliga leaders were aimed at his head coach
14:05
Sahin pay-cut made return possible, says Zorc
Borussia Dortmund's sporting director has said that without the midfielder's desperation for a return to his former club the move would not have gone through.
12:25
Official: Hannover complete Franca transfer
The Bundesliga outfit have completed a deal for the Brazilian defensive midfielder, making him the third player to join the club during the January transfer window
10:10
Holtby: Tottenham can win Premier League title next season
The 22-year-old Schalke midfielder signed a pre-contract deal to move to White Hart Lane in the summer, and feels Andre Villas-Boas' side can go all the way and become champions
09:45
Huntelaar still confident of top-three finish
Schalke ended 2012 in poor form, but the Dutch striker is certain they can put their bad run behind them and secure an automatic Champions League place
00:48
Dzeko ponders Manchester City exit in favour of Bundesliga return
The Bosnian has admitted a move away from the Etihad Stadium could be on the cards either this transfer window or in the summer, with the player keen on a return to Germany
Saturday, January 12, 2013
23:36
Klopp delighted with Sahin arrival
The 45-year-old coach has hailed the return of his former protege and says he will give his side additional options in midfield as the season progresses
18:35
Sahin pleased with experience of playing with Gerrard at Liverpool
The Turkey international is satisfied that he had the chance to play alongside the Reds captain despite only making a handful of appearances during his short Anfield career
15:15
Grosskreutz desperate for Dortmund stay
The Germany midfielder has found it difficult to get regular first-team football at Signal Iduna Park, but he insists he wants to stay and fight for his place rather than leave
Sven-Goran Eriksson claims ignorance as 1860 Munich reveal he is joining club
The 64-year-old and former Manchester City manager has not spoken to the club for over a month, though they have announced on Tuesday that he will join the coaching staff
Jan 15, 2013 5:45:00 PM
By Steve Norman
Former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has joined German second division side 1860 Munich according to the board, though, Eriksson claims not to know anything about it.
The ex-Lazio coach admitted that he has not spoken to the club for over a month and explained he had not been told he would be joining the staff.
"The vice president should have called me, that hasn't happen yet. They had contact with me one and a half months ago. All this was a little bit strange. I just have to wait and see," he told Expressen.se.
Eriksson’s potential role at the club is currently unclear, but it has been revealed by board member Otto Steiner, the Swede will not be taking control of the team with current coach Alexander Schmidt remaining in charge.
Steiner told the official club website: "The board has accepted that Sven-Goran Eriksson will be included in the coaching team of 1860. Alexander Schmidt will remain our coach. Executive Robert Schafer has the order to talk to both of them and to negotiate their exact duties."
Since leaving the England job after the 2006 World Cup, Eriksson has coached in leagues around the world including spells in Mexico, England and Africa.
Most recently he found himself working with BEC Tero Sasana in the Thai Premier League.
1860 Munich currently find themselves sixth in the second division, five points off third-placed Kaiserslautern.
German football chiefs hail Guardiola-to-Bayern as Bundesliga boost The ex-Barcelona boss will replace Jupp Heynckes at the Allianz Arena in the summer, and the Hannover president and the DFL's chief executive see it as a positive for the league
Guardiola snub a savage blow to 'the greatest league' in the world The 41-year-old has chosen to join Bundesliga outfit Bayern Munich at the end of the season, rejecting the advances of the best and richest clubs English football has to offer
Securing Guardiola proves Bayern can compete with the very best, says Beckenbauer The German icon feels the former Barcelona boss can form the perfect partnership at the club with Matthias Sammer, and hopes Jupp Heynckes can finish his career on a high
'I think it's great' - Watzke congratulates Bayern on Guardiola coup The Bavarians confirmed that the 41-year-old would coach them next season on Wednesday, and the BVB director feels it shows the strength of the Bundesliga
Only Guardiola could succeed Heynckes, says Hoeness The 41-year-old former Barcelona boss was announced as the Bayern coach for next season, and the Bavarians' president is keen for the current boss to receive a perfect send-off
Official: Schalke sign Raffael on loan The Brazilian forward has made the decision to return to Germany on a temporary basis after just six months at Dynamo Kiev, with the Gelsenkirchen side struggling with injuries
Pep Guardiola confirmed as Bayern Munich coach on three-year deal
• Guardiola to replace Jupp Heynckes in summer
• Had been linked with Chelsea and Manchester City
Wednesday 16 January 2013 18.05 GMT
Bayern Munich have announced that Pep Guardiola will become the club's new coach when Jupp Heynckes' contract expires this summer.
Bayern revealed that Heynckes, 67, will stay on in his post until the end of this season before retiring, at which point the former Barcelona coach will take over on a deal that runs until June 2016.
The news comes 24 hours after Bayern's media director Markus Horwick described claims that the club had approached Guardiola to take over as "complete rubbish", and Guardiola himself said he hoped to manage in the Premier League, with Manchester City and Chelsea among those interested in hiring him.
Bayern, though, revealed that the move had been in the pipeline since at least before Christmas, when Heynckes informed the club he would not be seeking a contract extension.
Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, Bayern's chief executive, said: "We are delighted that we have managed to get Pep Guardiola whom several big clubs wanted and contacted. He is one of the most successful trainers in the world and we are sure that not only Bayern Munich but the whole of German football will benefit from what he brings."
Rummenigge backed Heynckes to oversee a strong end to the season, having guided Bayern to a nine-point lead in the standings ahead of the Bundesliga's resumption following the winter break this weekend.
"As a club and as Jupp Heynckes' friends we have to show understanding for this decision. We have to accept it and we have to respect it," Rummenigge added. "During personal talks with Jupp we assured each other that we will do anything we can, and now even more, to have a successful second half of the season."
Heynckes, in his third spell at Bayern after returning to the club in June 2011, guided the club to the Champions League final in May, where they lost to Chelsea on penalties.
Bayern's chairman Uli Hoeness added: "Only someone of the calibre of Pep Guardiola was an adequate replacement for Jupp Heynckes."
Guardiola, 41, replaced Frank Rijkaard at Barca in 2008 and during his four years at Camp Nou led the club to 13 trophies, making him the most successful coach in the club's history.
"The signing of Guardiola shows the value of Bayern who want to be on par with the likes of Real Madrid or Manchester United," said Bayern's honorary president Franz Beckenbauer.
Tottenham 'in talks' to sign Holtby in January, confirms Heldt
The midfielder has agreed to move to White Hart Lane at the end of the season, but Spurs want to snap him up this month after Sandro was ruled out for the rest of the campaign
Vilanova: Players will not follow Guardiola
The Blaugrana trainer insists he is unfazed by rumours that Barcelona's first-team stars could join their former boss at Bayern Munich, as they are under contract at the club
Kahn: Adler's return to form is impressive
The former Germany international goalkeeper is delighted with the way the Hamburg No.1 has returned after fitness issues have hampered his progress in the last few years
Heynckes: Guardiola made the right choice
The German trainer indicated that while he plans to retire in the summer from football, die Roten will be in good hands with the Spaniard at the helm as he can bring them success
Guardiola's arrival will lure more stars to Bundesliga, says Schuster
The former Real Madrid coach feels that the 42-year-old's decision to move to Germany could prove to be an example to follow for other big names
Lahm: Guardiola the best coach of last four years
The Germany international has nothing but positive words for the former Barcelona boss, while Javi Martinez is also looking forward to the 41-year-old's arrival at Bayern Munich
Klinsmann: Guardiola return is fantastic
The USA boss has hailed the "fascinating situation" the former Barcelona coach has provided with his move to the Bundesliga next summer
Neuville backs De Jong to match Lewandowski and Gomez
The former Germany international believes the Netherlands international can rival the goalscoring exploits of Bayern Munich's Mario Gomez and Borussia Dortmund's Robert Lewandowski
Wenger 'surprised' by Guardiola's move to Bayern
The Arsenal boss believes the Spaniard's decision is "defendable", however, and claims that the future is bright for the Bundesliga that boasts "tomorrow's football"
Thiago: I will not follow Guardiola
The midfielder has crushed speculation he will be leaving Camp Nou and linking up with his old mentor in the Bundesliga next season
Stuttgart in advanced negotiations to sign Manchester United forward Macheda, claims agent
The young Italian striker's representative says that his client is "liked by a lot of clubs" and will leave on loan with the option to buy as his contract expires in June 2014
Robben: Guardiola will fit in well at Bayern
The Allianz Arena winger believes the former Barcelona boss is an interesting option as Jupp Heynckes' replacement, but the Spaniard will suit the club’s spirit of adventure
Rummenigge: Bayern would not have stood a chance if Guardiola's decision was based on money
The Bavarians are overjoyed to have secured the services of the successful coach, and are hopeful that Jupp Heynckes will remain at the club
Guardiola: I have missed the game
The former Barcelona coach has revealed that he is desperate to make his comeback at the end of this season, and believes the Catalans will not give up their lead in La Liga
Thon: Nobody believed Bayern could sign Guardiola
The former Bayern midfielder has praised the Bavarians' appointment of Pep, and believes he fits in very well at the Bundesliga leaders
Van Persie the best forward ever, says Klopp
The BVB trainer has taken the time to praise the Netherlands star, while also hailing the Bundesliga champions' progress in recent years
Tottenham in talks to sign Holtby in January
Spurs have already reached an agreement to sign the Schalke midfielder this summer but Andre Villas-Boas is keen to bolster his squad this month
Zubizarreta: Bayern offer Guardiola a solid project
The Blaugrana executive believes that the conditions at the German giants are perfect for the successful trainer as he resumes his coaching career
Chelsea and Manchester City paid for lack of history in race for Guardiola, insists Ferdinand
The highly sought-after 42-year-old manager will take over the reins of the German giants at the end of the season now, replacing Jupp Heynckes at the helm
Guardiola made Barcelona the best in the world - now he can do the same with Bayern
At Sabener Strasse, the Catalan should find all the conditions he needs to thrive but his work will be closely scrutinised
Bakero: Bayern a great club for Guardiola
The 49-year-old former Barcelona player has voiced his opinion that the Allianz Arena side are the right choice for the ex-Blaugrana trainer
I am confident Guardiola will succeed at Bayern, says Jancker
The 41-year-old was confirmed as the Bavarians' next coach on Wednesday, and their former striker is adamant that he will bring success to the Allianz Arena
Barcelona stars hail Bayern for bringing Guardiola on board
The former Blaugrana coach will replace Jupp Heynckes, and Tito Vilanova, Javier Mascherano and Jose Pinto said farewell to the Spaniard, who brought so much success to the club
De Boer doubts Guardiola can repeat Barca success at Bayern
The Ajax coach and former team-mate of Jupp Heynckes' replacement hailed the Bundesliga as on a par with the Premier League and says die Roten have a great "structure" in place
Guardiola signed Bayern deal in December, reveals agent
Josep Maria Orobitg has said clubs offered the former Barcelona boss more money, but the Bavarians were the ideal option for the sought-after coach who has signed a three-year deal
Schalke edged Hannover 5-4 in a nine-goal thriller at the Veltins Arena in Friday's Bundesliga action.
The two sides played out one of the games of the season as Schalke ended a six-match winless streak in the league in style.
After 44 goalless minutes, Peruvian attacker Jefferson Farfan opened the scoring to the delight of over 60,000 fans in Gelsenkirchen.
What was to follow was astounding, with the impressive Lewis Holtby – who will join English Premier League outfit Tottenham at the end of the season – setting up Schalke's second goal just four minutes into the second half.
Julian Draxler was the scorer but Hannover produced a quick response as Sergio Pinto and Szabolcs Huszti levelled the scores before the hour-mark.
Holtby was again the provider for Marco Hoger on 64 minutes and just after Christian Marica produced a neat finish to give Schalke a 4-2 lead.
Again Hannover would not lie down though and Hungarian Huszti slammed the ball into the roof of the net from close range with 22 minutes left to set up an exciting finish.
Holtby capped off an excellent performance with a tap-in on a quick counter-attack on 88 minutes but there was still time for former Manchester United striker Mame Biram Diouf to score for Hannover.
Diouf netted a sublime bicycle kick from the edge of the penalty area but his goal – scored in the second minute of stoppage time in the second half – came too late as Schalke celebrated a famous victory.
Eintracht Frankfurt will hope they can improve their poor away form when they travel to fellow Bundesliga high-flyers Bayer Leverkusen.
In the first weekend of Bundesliga action after the winter break, fourth-placed Eintracht will travel to second-placed Leverkusen having lost four of their past six away matches in the league.
Eintracht have not won at Leverkusen's BayArena since March 2008 either, meaning Armin Veh's side will need to produce something special for Saturday's clash, which looms as the match of the round.
But Veh's side have defied expectations throughout the campaign having come up as the second-placed team from last season's Bundesliga II.
With impressive attacking midfielders Takashi Inui (five goals, five assists) and Stefan Aigner (six goals, five assists) the main men for Veh, Eintracht will provide plenty of danger for the home side at the BayArena.
But Leverkusen will be tough to break down as they have not lost at home this season.
Mainz versus Freiburg is the other interesting fixture of the weekend.
Thomas Tuchel's sixth-placed Mainz side will take on the other over-achieving team in the Bundesliga, Freiburg, who sit fifth.
Mainz and Freiburg were both promoted to the Bundesliga after the 2008/09 season and are on track for potentially their best seasons since coming up.
League leaders Bayern Munich will host fellow Bavarian club Greuther Furth on Saturday and could extend their margin at the top of the table to 12 points if they win and Leverkusen lose.
In other games on Saturday, Wolfsburg host Stuttgart, Borussia Moenchengladbach will head to Hoffenheim and Werder Bremen take on Borussia Dortmund.
On Sunday, Nuremburg will host Hamburg and Fortuna Dusseldorf take on Augsburg.
Bundesliga wrap: Bayern, Leverkusen post wins
20 January 2013
Bayer Leverkusen maintained the pressure on Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich by beating Eintracht Frankfurt 3-1 on Saturday.
Bayer Leverkusen maintained the pressure on Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich by beating Eintracht Frankfurt 3-1 on Saturday.
Goals from Sebastian Boenisch, Stefan Kiessling and Andre Schurrle led second-placed Leverkusen to victory over Frankfurt, who remained fourth on the table.
Boenisch opened the scoring in the 31st minute before Kiessling doubled the advantage two minutes later.
Schurrle put the result beyond doubt on 58 minutes, while Alexander Meier added a consolation goal for Frankfurt.
Leverkusen are nine points behind the rampaging Bayern, who accounted for bottom-placed Greuther Fuerth 2-0 in Munich.
Bayern striker Mario Mandzukic found the net on either side of half-time, condemning Fuerth to their 11th loss of the season.
In the late game Borussia Dortmund strolled to a 5-0 triumph over Werder Bremen in Nuri Sahin's first game back at his old club.
Marco Reus looped in a free-kick in the opening minutes and Jurgen Klopp's charges never released their grip on proceedings, as further goals from Mario Gotze, Felipe Santana, Robert Lewandowski and Jakub Blaszczykowski ensured three points for the Bundesliga holders.
Meanwhile, second-half goals from Diego and Alexander Madlung guided Wolfsburg to a 2-0 win over Stuttgart.
Mainz played host to Freiburg in a 0-0 stalemate, while the clash between Hoffenheim and Borussia Moenchengladbach also ended 0-0.
Bundesliga wrap: Augsburg seal rare triumph
21 January 2013
Augsburg clinched just their second win of the Bundesliga season after beating Fortuna Dusseldorf 3-2 on Sunday.
Winless in 10 league matches, Augsburg took a surprise lead through Sascha Molders in the 40th minute.
Koo Ja-Cheol then doubled the advantage before Molders added his second goal to put Augsburg in a commanding position.
But Dusseldorf roared back into the contest through Stefan Reisinger, who scored twice in the second half as the visitors went in search of an equaliser.
Reisinger netted again deep into injury time, though his effort was disallowed due to an earlier infringement as Augsburg held on for their first league win since October.
Augsburg remained in 17th position, one point behind 16th-placed Hoffenheim and nine points adrift of league safety.
Meanwhile, Nuremberg came from a goal down to secure a share of the spoils in a 1-1 draw with Hamburg.
Latvian forward Artoms Rudnevs opened the scoring for Hamburg in the 70th minute before Toma Pekhart levelled proceedings for the hosts five minutes later.
Hamburg climbed one position to ninth on the table, while Nuremberg remained in 15th place, eight points above the relegation zone.
Van Gaal: Guardiola follows the Van Gaal philosophy
The flamboyant Dutchman believes the Bavarians' decision to appoint Pep is the right one as the former Barca boss' philosophy is similar to that of his predecessors
Klopp determined to catch Leverkusen
The Dortmund coach is targeting second place in the league, and hopes to overtake Bayer in the near future
Robben 'surprised' by Guardiola's appointment at Bayern Munich
The Netherlands winger admits that he expected the former Barcelona boss to head to England but adds that his arrival in the summer can only be a positive step for the Bavarians
Heynckes and Mandzukic unhappy despite Furth victory
Bayern Munich recorded a comfortable 2-0 win over their Bavarian rivals on Saturday, but the coach and striker are not content with the performance they put in
Reus delight at goal-hungry Dortmund's demolition of Werder Bremen
The Germany international hailed the approach his team had against Thomas Schaaf's men, as they ran riot at Weserstadion to climb up the league table
Javi Martinez: Guardiola is an excellent coach
The defensive midfielder will be joined by his compatriot at the Allianz Arena next summer and hopes to see more stars from his homeland make the move to Germany
Pep will not sign anyone from Barcelona, says Guardiola's father
After announcing his return to football in the Bundesliga next season, the 41-year-old's dad has denied reports he will look to capture some of his former players
13:35
Schalke knock back 'unacceptable' Tottenham offer for Holtby
The Bundesliga side claim Spurs want to sign the midfielder in January, but have rejected an initial deal, with the German saying his immediate future is out of his hands
11:40
Bayern Munich will win Bundesliga, says Hinkel
The former Stuttgart and Celtic defender has had his say on the German title race, and believes the Schwaben are slowly finding their feet after a difficult start
Sir Alex Ferguson surprised by Guardiola's Bayern Munich choice
The Manchester United boss said he didn't expect the former Barcelona coach to select the Bundesliga side, despite being aware of the allure of the Bavarian giants
Jan 19, 2013 11:25:00 AM
By Husmukh Kerai
Sir Alex Ferguson said he was surprised when he learned that Pep Guardiola had chosen to manage Bayern Munich.
Enjoying a year's sabbatical, the former Barcelona manager ended months of speculation over his future by signing a three-year contract at the Allianz Arena.
The Spaniard was expected by many to come to the Premier League, with Manchester City and Chelsea strongly linked with the 42-year-old.
"I was surprised because I didn’t see it coming," Sir Alex told reporters. "All the time the talk was about clubs in England.
"But if you assess it as a coach, if you're given the opportunity to manage Bayern Munich it is hard to turn down because they are probably one of the best-run clubs in Europe.
"A fantastic city, a fantastic stadium, good players, good history. It is very easy to choose Bayern Munich with all these circumstances."
Sir Alex acknowledged that Bayern's illustrious history and previous stars have a lot of influence on the current state of play at the Allianz Arena.
"Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and Uli Hoeness are involved [at Bayern]. You also have Gerd Muller working in the place and I think Sepp Maier is still there.
"That place is loaded with players who made that club’s history. They've always been that way. It's a really well-run club and I think it's easy to accept that offer because of that."
Pep will not sign anyone from Barcelona, says Guardiola's father
After announcing his return to football in the Bundesliga next season, the 41-year-old's dad has denied reports he will look to capture some of his former players
Jan 19, 2013 2:53:00 PM
By Will Selby
Pep Guardiola's father says his son will not look to take any Barcelona stars to Bayern Munich.
The former Blaugrana boss will take over from Jupp Heynckes in the Allianz Arena hotseat as of this summer, following an announcement earlier this week.
And since then, rumours have linked Guardiola with a number of his former players after he admitted he would look to replicate the style of football he implemented at Camp Nou with his new club.
"Barça is his home. He's not going to pull it apart, how would his home end up then?", Valentí Guardiola told Deportes Cuatro.
He then gave his thoughts on a possible language barrier stalling his son's progress at Bayern and whether or not he will be able to enjoy the same success in Germany as he did in Spain.
"Only time will tell. He'll put everything into his job and he will be able to defend himself in German," he added.
Barca midfielder Thiago Alcantara was one such player linked with a move to join his former boss, but has since denied that speculation.
Santana: Subotic injury good for me
The Brazilian is hoping to take advantage of the Serbian international's current absence and enjoy a prolonged run in the first team
Schalke deny reports of Bastos medical
Reports claimed the Brazil international was travelling to Germany, but the club have moved to rubbish those claims with a statement over their official Twitter account
Lahm unhappy with Bayern Munich display against Greuther Furth
The Bavarians' captain was unhappy with his side's display on Saturday, despite coasting to victory, and felt the media furore in the lead up to the game did not help matters
Beckenbauer seeks Bayern Munich calm following Guardiola frenzy
The Bavarians legend wants to put an end to the media hype surrounding the impending arrival of the former Barcelona coach and to concentrate on football instead
Guardiola could struggle to live up to high expectations, says Magath
The controversial trainer has stressed that there is no guarantee Pep will guide the Bavarians to glory, but believes he has what it takes to succeed at the Allianz Arena
Winning Bundesliga should not be Bayern's number one priority - Robben
The Netherlands international welcomes Pep Guardiola and feels that die Roten must aim for winning the triple this season, rather than just focusing on the domestic competition
Ribery happy to retire at Bayern
The France international feels right at home at the Bavarian capital and is hoping to lead is side to their first Bundesliga title since 2009-10 this season
Lahm unperturbed by Sammer criticism
The full-back and captain of Bayern Munich believes it is the director's job to keep the team focused, and is not too worried about the recent criticism they have received
Guardiola could struggle to live up to high expectations, says Magath
The controversial trainer has stressed that there is no guarantee Pep will guide the Bavarians to glory, but believes he has what it takes to succeed at the Allianz Arena
Jan 22, 2013 11:30:00 AM
By Stefan Coerts
Former Bayern Munich coach Felix Magath has attempted to lower expectations ahead of Pep Guardiola's arrival at the Bundesliga leaders at the end of the season.
Many have praised the Bavarians for capturing the former Barcelona coach, but Magath has warned that there is no guarantee Guardiola will be able to replicate his Blaugrana success at the Allianz Arena outfit.
"Guardiola's being treated like a messiah before he's even arrived at Bayern. He might have difficulties living up to the high expectations," Magath said to Liga Total!.
"We are all talking about all the titles that Guardiola has won in his career, but Jupp Heynckes could end up winning three trophies with Bayern this year. It will not be easy to surpass that.
"Guardiola is an experienced coach, but German football should not adapt to him. He will have to get used to the Bundesliga. He has all the qualities to become a success, though."
The former Spain international has signed a contract with Bayern until June 2016.
Heynckes angry over timing of Guardiola's Bayern Munich appointment
The 67-year-old former Real Madrid boss says he was frustrated by the timing of the former Blaugrana coach's appointment at die Roten
Jan 22, 2013 12:55:00 AM
By Shane Callaghan
Bayern Munich boss Jupp Heynckes has blasted club officials for their timing in naming Pep Guardiola as his successor at the Allianz Arena.
It was announced last week that Guardiola would succeed Heynckes as Bayern boss, but the former Real Madrid coach believes there would have been less impact on his team had the announcement come earlier.
"It would have been better to do this in the winter break. Before Christmas, before the holidays," Heynckes told Sky.
"This is due to the media hype that might interfere with the normal working day."
In the wake of Bayern's 2-0 win over Greuther Furth, Heynckes also responded angrily to claims he was not in control of his team.
He added: "I am the boss. Anyone who knows me knows I am the boss here. I have been the boss everywhere - no matter where I have worked."
Meanwhile, Franz Beckenbauer has defended Bayern's timing of the announcement, insisting Guardiola's stature within the game affected when his appointment could be confirmed.
"If somebody is as high calibre as Pep Guardiola, you should not be surprised if it is the big issue. Now, it has to be Jupp. But he doesn't seem happy," the World Cup winner told Bild.
