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Sir Alex Ferguson, Pep Guardiola & the world's Top 10 best paid football managers in pictures From Maradona to Mourinho, we've compiled a list of the bosses earning the greatest pay-packets in the game, with the United chief set to accept a bumper new deal at Old Trafford
Jan 18, 2012 9:30:00 AM
By Jonathan Birchall
With players often derided for their huge salaries, it's easy to forget that the men that coach them are similarly rewarded to an often unimaginable extent for their efforts, and with our list including individuals from Dubai to Brazil, it's clear that the managerial fraternity are being blessed with plenty of buck for their bang.
The following list sees a few surprise inclusions, but do you think the lucky 10 are deserving of their astronomical loots? If not, let us know which bosses are more worthy of the biggest bucks that the game has to offer in our comments section below.
10. Roberto Mancini, Manchester City | £3.8m a year
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9. Sir Alex Ferguson, Manchester United | £4m a year *
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* After he puts pen to paper on the new contract offer which is on the table, Sir Alex will jump up to a £6.5m-a-year basic salary plus a £1m bonus and sit fourth in the list as Britain's highest paid manager.
8. Andre Villas-Boas, Chelsea | £4.3m a year
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7. Luiz Felipe Scolari, Palmeiras | £4.4m a year
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6. Carlo Ancelotti, Paris Saint-Germain | £4.9m a year
QPR, Man City agree fee for Onuoha
QPR have had an offer accepted for Manchester City defender Nedum Onuoha, it is understood.
Enrique still eyeing Reds top-four finish
Liverpool left-back Jose Enrique remains confident the Reds can finish in the top four of the Barclays Premier League this season.
United legend questions City complaints
Ex-Manchester United star Clayton Blackmore does not believe Manchester City would have coped with the injuries that have decimated Sir Alex Ferguson's squad this term.
Pulis wants FA to punish card-waving
Stoke boss Tony Pulis has described imaginary card-waving from managers and players as "unacceptable" and called for it to be eradicated from the game on Thursday.
Baggies announce £9million profit
West Brom made a profit of £9million for the financial year ending June 30, 2011, the club have confirmed.
Shearer: Cisse must score for Magpies
Alan Shearer has told Newcastle new boy Papiss Demba Cisse all he has to do to be worthy of the number nine shirt is score goals.
Stoke not looking to sell Jones
Stoke chairman Peter Coates has dismissed rumours that striker Kenwyne Jones could be sold this month.
Liverpool confirm Teixeira interest
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has confirmed the club's interest in signing Sporting Lisbon midfielder Joao Carlos Teixeira.
Lazio not interested in Arshavin
Serie A outfit Lazio claim they have no plans to make a move for Arsenal playmaker Andrey Arshavin during the January transfer window.
Blackburn close in on Modeste
Blackburn are close to completing a loan deal for Bordeaux striker Anthony Modeste, the Barclays Premier League club have confirmed.
Leverkusen dismiss Berbatov talk
Bayer Leverkusen insists they know nothing of speculation linking them with a move for former star Dimitar Berbatov.
McLeish to be patient with Keane
Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish insists he is under no pressure to pick loan signing Robbie Keane despite the striker joining for just a six-week spell.
Bolton trial for MLS star Le Toux
Bolton manager Owen Coyle has confirmed striker Sebastian Le Toux has joined the club for a week's training.
"De Gea can wait 10 years to be No. 1"
Manchester United goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard believes team-mate David de Gea will definitely be the number one at Old Trafford one day.
Pardew urges power of nine to Cisse Newcastle boss Alan Pardew has urged the club's fans to be patient as new signing Papiss Demba Cisse attempts to handle the pressure of filling the club's famous number nine shirt.
Paris Saint-Germain's Carlo Ancelotti: We hope to find a solution for Manchester City's Carlos Tevez
The Italian believes that the Argentine striker would be a quality addition to his side and expects the 27-year-old to accept a move to the French capital
Gary Smith is favourite ahead of Paul Ince and Arsenal legends Martin Keown & Steve Bould to become new Stevenage manager
The former Colorado Rapids boss could arrive in the UK for a second round of talks with the League One club early next week
Manchester City tracking Benfica's Nicolas Gaitan - report
The Premier League leaders do not want to fall behind Manchester United in the race for the Argentine and sent a scout to check on the player on Wednesday
Liverpool's Kenny Dalglish confirms interest in Sporting CP youngster Joao Carlos
The 19-year-old Portuguese midfielder has been linked with a move to Anfield after reportedly impressing the club's scouts during a NextGen Series match in August
Blackburn Rovers sign Bordeaux striker Anthony Modeste on loan for the rest of the season subject to medical
The French club have allowed the youngster to join Steve Kean's struggling side on a short-term deal, as the under-pressure boss seeks reinforcements in his bid to beat the drop
Former Real Madrid star Guti argues Wayne Rooney was in no position to judge Pepe over Clasico stamp
The Spaniard, who is currently without a club, feels that it was somewhat hypocritical of the England striker to lash out at the Portuguese for his act of petulance
Bayer Leverkusen rule out January move for Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov
The Bulgarian is not a transfer target for his former side this month, while the player's agent also states the forward will not be leaving Old Trafford for the Bundesliga
Manchester United's Danny Welbeck's contract talks stall over wage demands – report
The England international's long-term future at the Premier League club has been thrown into serious doubt following a row over the 21-year-old's pay packet
Tottenham to open contract talks with Aaron Lennon – report
The 24-year-old's current deal does not expire until 2014 but Spurs hope to extend his stay at White Hart Lane by at least two years to avoid being forced to sell for a reduced fee
QPR prepared to offer £80,000-a-week deal to Manchester City's Nedum Onuoha – report
New Hoops boss Mark Hughes hopes to lure the 25-year-old to Loftus Road with a sizeable contract as he looks to bolster his back four, having managed the player at Eastlands
Marouane Chamakh insists he is not seeking a move away from Arsenal
The Moroccan forward has stated he is not looking to leave the side in January, and is eying a first-term starting spot upon his return from the Africa Cup of Nations
Fenerbahce agree €13 million fee with Lille for Moussa Sow
The Senegalese striker looks to be Istanbul-bound after both clubs struck a deal, with a lucrative three-and-a-half year deal ready to be signed in the coming days
Premier League Top Goalscorer: Robin van Persie leads the way, but Demba Ba could be good value at 10/1
Arsenal's star forward is the favourite to claim the award, but with his questionable injury record could another contender end up on top of the scoring charts?
Tottenham’s Scott Parker targets victory in ‘very big’ Manchester City clash
Following Saturday's 1-1 draw with Wolves, the 31-year-old is aware his side cannot afford any further slip-ups in the title race, as the midfielder looks to regain his fitness
Anders Lindegaard: 'David de Gea has a great future at Manchester United but it is my job to keep him out the team'
The Denmark international, who has started the club's last three matches, claims the Spaniard has "massive" potential despite the turbulent start to his Old Trafford career
Manchester City set to sell Nigel de Jong in the summer after rejecting £100,000-per-week contract offer - report
The Dutch midfielder reportedly turned down the improved terms last year, and with Roberto Mancini looking to sell before he buys, he could be set for an Eastlands exit
Andre Villas-Boas to take Chelsea team on five-day team-bonding break to Majorca - report
The Blues will reportedly fly out to the Spanish island after their Premier League meeting with Norwich City on Saturday in order to recuperate for the remainder of the season
Thierry Henry in race to be fit for Arsenal's Premier League clash with Manchester United – report
The French forward returned to light training on Wednesday after being forced to pull out the previous day, but Mikel Arteta is likely to remain sidelined with a calf strain
Manchester United leading race to sign Crystal Palace starlet Nathaniel Clyne
Sir Alex Ferguson was impressed by the 20-year-old in the Eagles' 2-1 League Cup win at Old Trafford in November, and could make a bid for his services in January
Manchester United's Wayne Rooney labels Real Madrid's Pepe 'an idiot' for Clasico stamp on Barcelona's Lionel Messi
The England striker, who is no stranger to acts of petulance himself, admonished the Portugal international for failing to control his temper
David Beckham signs new two-year contract with LA Galaxy
The former England captain, who has been linked with PSG, insists that he had "many offers from clubs from around the world" but admits he wants to win trophies with the MLS side
Liverpool trialist Mumuni Abubakar confident of securing contract: The coaching staff are impressed by me so we should get a favourable response
The 18-year-old Ghanaian is coming to the end of a two-week training period in the north west and is of the impression that he has made a good impact during the short spell
Blackburn Rovers manager Steve Kean still hopeful Junior Hoilett will sign new contract
The 21-year-old's current deal expires in the summer and his boss is keen to keep him, adamant the winger is still playing for his team-mates despite speculation regarding a move
Steve Kean: Blackburn Rovers' refusal to sell Christopher Samba is a mark of the club’s ambition
Despite speculated interest in the defender from QPR, Tottenham and PSG, the Ewood Park boss is confident of keeping hold of the 27-year-old and defensive partner Scott Dann
Chelsea must sell Didier Drogba in order for Fernando Torres to flourish, claims former boss Carlo Ancelotti
The Italian coach, now at Paris Saint-Germain, believes that the striker whom he brought to Stamford Bridge for £50 million needs the chance to step out of the Ivorian's shadow
Chelsea's John Terry insists he will not give up Premier League title chase until it is ‘impossible’ to win
The 31-year-old has won three championships as Blues skipper, and is hoping to cut the deficit on the top three, starting this weekend as the west Londoners travel to Norwich
Denis Irwin: Manchester City may deserve to be top of the Premier League but experience could see United win the title
The Red Devils legend has been impressed by Roberto Mancini's side this season, and has also hailed Paul Scholes' decision to come out of retirement as a shrewd move from Sir Alex
Tottenham's Gareth Bale the only Premier League player included in Uefa.com users’ Team of the Year
The Wales international has been recognised for an impressive 2011, while Barcelona and Real Madrid dominate the selections with five and three nominations apiece
"De Gea can wait 10 years to be No. 1" Manchester United goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard believes team-mate David de Gea will definitely be the number one at Old Trafford one day.
However, he has warned the Spaniard he could face a long wait. Lindegaard has played United's last three games, with De Gea seemingly paying the price for a poor performance in the 3-2 home defeat to Blackburn. And although the Dane is full of praise for his rival, he has no plans to give up his place in the side lightly. Asked if he thought De Gea could one day be the best in the world, Lindegaard said: "Of course I do. He has extraordinary attributes, extremely explosive and powerful.
"He is only 21. His potential is massive and there is no doubt he will be United's best goalkeeper at some point. "My job is to make sure it is not until I have retired. Which is in 10 years." Quoted in several national newspapers, Lindegaard added: "I am very proud of what I have made out of this.
"Three years ago I was in Denmark's second division. Nobody knew my name. When I first came here nobody could pronounce it. "It has been fantastic to this point and right now is not the time to relax about it, but to keep pushing on, to get better and to get the best for yourself and the club. "It is the first time I have played three games in a row and that is what I want, to play as much as possible, but I don't need a definition of my position."
"I am doing everything I can to help David. I enjoy working with him." Meanwhile, United defender Nemanja Vidic has backed his team-mates to enjoy their traditionally strong finish to the season and retain the Premier League title. United have been badly hit by injuries and currently trail Manchester City by three points, but Vidic - who has been ruled out for the rest of the season - told BBC North West Tonight: "I'm positive.
"We've had problems with injuries but it seems all the players are getting back and getting fitter. We will be better than we were in the first half of the season. "It's not bad for the city of Manchester to have two teams competing for the title - as long as we finish in first place."
Chelsea must sell Didier Drogba in order for Fernando Torres to flourish, claims former boss Carlo Ancelotti
The Italian coach, now at Paris Saint-Germain, believes that the striker whom he brought to Stamford Bridge for £50 million needs the chance to step out of the Ivorian's shadow
Jan 18, 2012 5:22:00 PM
By George Ankers
Andre Villas-Boas must sell Didier Drogba if Chelsea’s investment in Fernando Torres is to pay off, former manager Carlo Ancelotti has claimed.
Shanghai Shenhua are among the sides interested in swooping for Drogba, with the 33-year-old’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, and Ancelotti believes that the Ivorian’s departure would benefit the misfiring Spaniard.
“Didier is like [AC Milan forward] Filippo Inzaghi, he tends to devour whoever is in his way,” the Italian coach told The Daily Telegraph.
“It is not malice, they are just made like that.
“Take Torres and his crisis. If you decide to invest so heavily in him you have to sell Drogba.”
Since arriving at Stamford Bridge in a £50 million deal Torres has endured a torrid time in front of goal for his new side, netting just five times in 41 appearances.
The 27-year-old has registered the same amount of goals so far in the 2011-12 campaign as central defender John Terry, with fellow forwards Drogba, Daniel Sturridge and Juan Mata all ahead of him in the club’s scoring charts.
Ancelotti had earlier claimed that Torres’ was one of several names of high-profile strikers being touted by agents, officially or otherwise, for a transfer during the current January transfer window.
LA Galaxy chief confirms interest in Chelsea's Frank Lampard David Beckham has also lent his support to a proposed move for the 33-year-old, with speculation continuing to link the midfielder with a Stamford Bridge exit
Chelsea's Michael Essien insists hard work has paid off as he looks to put injury woes behind him The Ghanaian midfielder surprisingly returned to the match-day squad against Sunderland last Saturday and is expected to compete for a starting place at Carrow Road this weekend
Nemanja Vidic: Manchester United can win the title without me Red Devils' captain thankful for 'healthy' competition from neighbouring Manchester City and hopes to return for the start of next season with his club still reigning champions
Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas slams competitiveness of English reserve leagues & calls for overhaul of youth set-up The 34-year-old believes a system similar to that of Spain should be implemented, where a number of teams 'B' sides compete in lower divisions in order to introduce youngsters
Liverpool set to earn £300m from new kit deal with Warrior Sports American-based company to supply the Reds' kit for the next six seasons in record-breaking deal after similar agreement with Adidas ended, reportedly due to poor on-field results
Liverpool's Kenny Dalglish admits Craig Bellamy must not be overworked if he is to stay fit for remainder of the season The Anfield boss is all too aware of past injuries that have plagued the Welsh striker's career and is keen to ensure he is managed correctly to get the maximum from him
'It's like flirting with a girl. Perhaps she will resist you at first, but if you continue to ask her out, it always ends well,' - Shanghai hopeful of signing Chelsea striker Drogba The Ivory Coast star could be set for a free transfer at the end of the season to join former team-mate Nicolas Anelka at the club currently managed by ex-Fulham boss Jean Tigana
Why Manchester City should have the Premier League title wrapped up by April Roberto Mancini's side face an easy run of fixtures after the clash against Spurs on Sunday where victory will see them move eight points clear of the third-placed Londoners
Gary Cahill signing, Fernando Torres improving & five reasons why Chelsea are on track for a strong Premier League run-in With Andre Villas-Boas' men set to take on Norwich this Saturday, we've taken a look at why the Blues can be optimistic about enjoying a positive second half to the season
Fulham ready to offer West Brom £3m, Damien Duff and Chris Baird in exchange for Peter Odemwingie Martin Jol has identified the Nigeria international, who the Baggies value at £5m, as one of his prime targets in the January window as he looks to bolster his attacking line-up
Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness: ‘Before Mr Glazer bought Manchester United, he didn’t know there was air in the ball’ The Bavarian side's president and ex-Germany international slams the American's role at Old Trafford and claims a preference for Manchester City's Arab proprietors
Yaya Toure reveals his 'guilt' at departing Manchester City in search of Afcon glory with Ivory Coast The Ivorian midfielder also spoke of the strength of the Premier League, suggesting it is more competitive than the duopoly of Barcelona and Real Madrid in La Liga
How Tottenham have turned their season around since August's Manchester City humiliation Spurs were on the end of a 5-1 humbling at the hands of Roberto Mancini's side at White Hart Lane at the start of the campaign, but have lost just one Premier League game since
Chelsea's Andre Villas-Boas defends Fernando Torres in wake of Carlo Ancelotti criticism The new PSG boss claimed earlier this week that the Blue's £50m signing was in the shadow of Didier Drogba, and that the Ivorian needed to leave for the Spaniard to flourish
David Beckham confirms Premier League offers prior to signing new LA Galaxy contract The 36-year-old signed a two-year deal to stay in America, and admitted his playing career could extend into his 40s
Manchester United's Nani reveals he gets Sir Alex Ferguson's hairdryer treatment 'a lot' The Portuguese winger has admitted his boss always expects more from him while Michael Carrick insists that Manchester City must be given credit for their impressive campaign
Family and the city help keep David Beckham with the LA Galaxy The Galaxy officially presented Beckham in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday, in a city which helped keep the Beckham family in MLS
Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea set for laser eye surgery in the summer - report The Spaniard would need four days recovery time and has reportedly been pencilled in before the London 2012 Olympics as he looks set to get the nod for the Spain squad
Players delegation led by Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey & Craig Bellamy plead with Chris Coleman not to change Wales set-up
The new manager is ready to abandon plans to bring in his own backroom team after key members of the squad vent their feelings in private over a need to stick with what's in place
Blackburn Rovers sign Bordeaux striker Anthony Modeste on six-month loan deal
The French club have allowed the youngster to join Steve Kean's struggling side on a short-term deal, as the under-pressure boss seeks reinforcements in his bid to beat the drop
Christopher Samba told he will not be sold this month in conference call with Blackburn Rovers owners
The Congo defender was furious at the decision to not allow him to leave in January and could be prepared to go on strike to force through a transfer before the window closes
Inter's Marco Branca confirms club still in the hunt for Manchester City's Carlos Tevez
The representative of the Italian side has claimed that they are still in the race for the want-away Argentine, despite Paris Saint-Germain making a play for the striker
Agent claims QPR have signed AC Milan full-back Taye Taiwo on six-month loan deal
Liverpool midfielder Charlie Adam still hopeful securing Champions League qualification
The former Blackpool playmaker admits he has enjoyed every minute on Merseyside and is adamant that there are still "plenty of points to play for" in the hunt for a top-four finish
Manchester United winger Ashley Young pleased with recovery process after injury setback
England international is back training in the gym and believes Sir Alex Ferguson's side are favourites for the clash against Arsene Wenger's men at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday
Manchester United starlet Ravel Morrison not interested in Manchester City move
The 18-year-old has been linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium but the midfielder has taken to Twitter to claim he is not interesting in a switch to his side's bitter rivals
Arsenal's Robin van Persie: The club have not signed my son
Five-year-old Shaqueel had reportedly joined the Gunners' youth ranks, but the Netherlands international has dismissed those claims on Thursday
Liverpool's Kenny Dalglish keen to move on from Stoke City draw & hails progress of Sebastian Coates
The Scot was content to draw positives from the stalemate last weekend, and believes the 21-year-old defender will prosper at Anfield after settling in
Andre Villas-Boas urges media not to focus on John Terry ahead of Chelsea's FA Cup tie against QPR
The centre-back is due in court four days after the match at Loftus Road to face allegations suggesting he racially abused Anton Ferdinand last October
Liverpool's Kenny Dalglish: Kit deal shows our club's brand has global appeal
The 60-year-old Scot is happy with new shirt manufacturer and believes the £25m per-year agreement highlights the strength of the side's reputation internationally
Why Manchester City should have the Premier League title wrapped up by April Roberto Mancini's side face an easy run of fixtures after the clash against Spurs on Sunday where victory will see them move eight points clear of the third-placed Londoners
Jan 20, 2012 12:00:00 PM
By Greg Stobart
Roberto Mancini has spoken of his belief that it will take a whopping 90 points to win thePremier League this season and, given his notorious attention to detail, the Italian has probably plotted every point his Manchester City side will win between now and May.
A glance at the table will tell observers that this is set to be the closest race for the title for many years, with three evenly matched teams within five points of each other heading into this weekend’s fixtures.
Is it that close, though? Mancini has emphasised the challenge posed by Manchester United and Tottenham but, in reality, City should have the title all but wrapped up by April.
On Sunday, City entertain Tottenham knowing a win would move them eight points clear of Harry Redknapp’s third-placed side and, for the time being at least, cut the title challenge to a two-horse race.
Mancini’s players will, of course, have fond memories of their last game against Spurs, a 5-1 win at White Hart Lane back in August. By that stage, City were already top of the Premier League, a position they continue to hold as they live up to their tag as favourites to win the title this season.
Man of the moment | Mancini will hope his side can take advantage of their upcoming matches
For City, this is the part of the season where every game is about the result, rather than performance. Mancini has spoken openly of his concern that his squad have not won a title before, unlike their local rivals Manchester United.
Forty-four years of history will be weighing on City’s shoulders in the final four months of the season, but their players will sense a real opportunity to kick on for glory now after weathering a recent dip in form.
PATH TO GLORY
Man City's next 10 PL fixtures
Swansea (A)
Chelsea (H)
Stoke (A)
Sunderland (H)
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Tottenham (H)
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They will also know that the visit of Spurs to the Etihad Stadium represents the only significant hurdle in a run of fixtures that could see City out of sight before the end-of-season run-in starts in April.
After Tottenham, Mancini’s side face a run of nine league games that are all eminently winnable, only two of which are against sides currently in the top half of the Premier League.
On face value, City will expect to win every game comfortably, with a trip to Stoke and the visit of Chelsea the hardest games in a run that could define the season.
Mancini has consistently described January as the critical month for City’s title ambitions, believing his side will be ‘ok’ should they emerge from the month in top spot.
Without the likes of Yaya Toure, currently absent at the African Cup of Nations, and suspended captain Vincent Kompany, City have had a wobble in recent weeks.
But those key players will return to play the majority of City’s easy run before they travel to Arsenal on April 7.
In the meantime, City’s title rivals will face far more testing games that are likely to see them fall well behind the Premier League pace-setters.
United, for example, face trips to Chelsea and Tottenham in addition to a home game against Liverpool. Spurs have to contend with a horrible run of six away games at City, Liverpool, Arsenal, Everton, Chelsea and Sunderland.
City, for their part, played five of the ‘big six’ away from home in the first half of the season and the league could easily open up for them in the next two-and-a-half months.
The question, as yet unanswered, will be how they can handle the pressure as they close in on a first title in more than four decades, and whether they can find a way to win even when their play becomes notably tense and stifled.
Mancini has the largest, strongest squad in the country at his disposal and he has rotated players throughout the season to make sure everyone is as fresh as possible for such crucial games.
Without the distraction of the Champions League - from which they were eliminated in the group stage - City will sense a real chance now to push on and make the title theirs.
Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness: ‘Before Mr Glazer bought Manchester United, he didn’t know there was air in the ball The Bavarian side's president and ex-Germany international slams the American's role at Old Trafford and claims a preference for Manchester City's Arab proprietors
Jan 20, 2012 10:27:00 AM
By Matt Scott
Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness has spoken out against the Glazer family's ownership of Manchester United.
The American's acquisition of the Premier League giants proved controversial at the time due to the large levels of debt that were transferred onto the club's books.
And the former Bayern striker has suggested that owner Malcolm Glazer had no knowledge of football prior to his 2005 takeover.
Hoeness told Bloomberg: “Before Mr Glazer bought Manchester United, he didn’t know there was air in the ball. That’s not something that I accept. His target is making money.
“I would accept Mr Glazer immediately if he says ‘OK, the price of Manchester United is £800 million. That’s my money, my risk and now we are working.’
"But what did he do? He bought the club and said ‘OK, I don’t have the money, how can we finance it?’ That’s something that I never accept.”
Glazer gained control of the current English champions mainly through loaned money, much of which is yet to be re-paid, something which has been a sticking point for many United fans.
Supporters of the Red Devils have also seen the emergence of their neighbouring rivals Manchester City as title contenders, thanks to a massive investment from Sheikh Mansour, a member of the Abu Dhabi Royal family.
Hoeness also discussed his dismay at City's lavish spending, but admitted he preferred Mansour's methods.
He added: “In this moment, will he [the wealthy owner] one day say now I go on my ships and I buy pictures and so on? But if you say which option [Glazers or benefactor], you want to have I would say I take the guy from Abu Dhabi.”
The Bundesliga side have posted a profit in each of the last 20 seasons, and therefore will be unworried by the introduction of Uefa's Financial Fair Play rulings, while United themselves were quick to respond to Hoeness' comments, suggesting the club is in a healthy position.
United's director of communications Phil Townsend retorted: "Mr Hoeness has a right to an opinion, but results over the last seven years speak for themselves and Manchester United is in a healthy position, both on and off the pitch.“The Glazer family have been integral in boosting of the club’s revenues, which have seen Manchester United become world leaders in the breadth and depth of our commercial partnerships.”
Rio Ferdinand breaks down in training with back injury and is major doubt for Manchester United trip to Arsenal
England star suffers a recurrence of the complaint that has affected him for more than 12 months and could be set for lengthy absence
Newcastle United’s Ryan Taylor excited by arrival of Papiss Cisse from Freiburg
The utility player, who has played in both full-back positions and right midfield for the Magpies this season, also gave credit to manager Alan Pardew for the club's excellent form
Manchester United youth graduate Danny Drinkwater joins Leicester City
The 21-year-old becomes Nigel Pearson’s first signing during his second spell in charge of the Championship club, who are hungry for promotion
Daniel Sturridge tips new Chelsea signing Gary Cahill to earn regular place in England XI
The striker, who played alongside his Stamford Bridge team-mate during a loan spell at Bolton, believes the centre-back will benefit from partnering John Terry at club level
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger refuses to rule out left-back signing
With first-choice defenders Kieran Gibbs & Andre Santos both injured, the Frenchman admitted dipping into the market was a possibility after their match against Manchester United
‘There is no chance of another 8-2 victory,’ says Sir Alex Ferguson ahead of Manchester United's clash against Arsenal
The Scot highlights Arsene Wenger’s side's impressive defensive record at home and is wary of the effect Thierry Henry could have on the Emirates Stadium crowd
Arsenal's Arsene Wenger against idea of Premier League ‘B' sides in the Football League
The Frenchman believes English football culture would prevent feeder teams from working in a similar way to other European countries
Roberto Mancini admits Emmanuel Adebayor’s future at Manchester City is unclear after Tottenham loan deal ends
The Italian admits the striker may have to be prepared for long spells on the sidelines due to a wealth of options in attack at the Etihad Stadium
Cote d'Ivoire's Gervinho: The Ivory Coast are like Arsenal
The star of the Elephants has compared his national team to his club side, as the Gunners are also experiencing a trophy drought
Former Liverpool & Bayern Munich star Dietmar Hamann reveals gambling & alcohol addiction
In his soon-to-be released autobiography, the German, who helped lead the Reds to Champions League glory in 2005, revealed he struggled with addictions to drinking and gambling
Didier Drogba admits disillusionment at Chelsea but says he won't leave before June
The Ivory Coast forward has revealed that he wants to find "more fun" in the game but won't leave the Stamford Bridge outfit in the January transfer window
Arsenal's Thierry Henry doubtful for Sunday's clash against Manchester United
Arsene Wenger has admitted that a calf injury could rule the Frenchman out of the crunch tie at the Emirates Stadium, as the Gunners hope to avenge August's 8-2 defeat
Manchester City's Roberto Mancini: Carlos Tevez return is 'impossible'
As rumours of a move to Paris Saint-Germain gather pace, the Argentine's manager confirms that there is no way back for the rebellious striker at the Etihad Stadium
Arsene Wenger insists clash between Arsenal and Manchester United still holds importance in the Premier League title race
The Emirates boss has conceded that the Red Devils counter-attack football has got the better of them recently, but believes his side can still challenge if they avoid injuries
Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson dismisses claims of contract dispute with Danny Welbeck
The Red Devils boss expects Phil Jones and Chris Smalling to return for Sunday's trip to Arsenal and hints that Tom Cleverley and Ashley Young are nearing a comeback too
Liverpool's Kenny Dalglish admits Craig Bellamy must not be overworked if he is to stay fit for remainder of the season
The Anfield boss is all too aware of past injuries that have plagued the Welsh striker's career and is keen to ensure he is managed correctly to get the maximum from him
Chelsea's Andre Villas-Boas slams competitiveness of English reserve leagues & calls for overhaul of youth set-up
The 34-year-old believes a system similar to that of Spain should be implemented, where a number of teams 'B' sides compete in lower divisions in order to introduce youngsters
Team news for the weekend's Barclays Premier League action.
Saturday, January 21 Bolton v Liverpool
David Ngog is set to face old club Liverpool for the first time since his £4million summer move to Bolton tomorrow - the striker is likely to replace Kevin Davies. Goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen has returned to training after a thigh injury, although the Finn is not expected to be ready to start.
Midfielder Jay Spearing is Liverpool's only injury doubt. The 23-year-old missed last week's goalless draw with Stoke with a hamstring injury and will be assessed before the evening kick-off at the Reebok Stadium. Centre-back Daniel Agger is set to return after being rested which could mean Jamie Carragher loses his place after his first league start in over two months, while striker Luis Suarez is still suspended.
Last season: Liverpool 2 Bolton 1, Bolton 0 Liverpool 1
Last five league matches: Bolton W L D W L; Liverpool D D W L D
Top scorers (all competitions): Ivan Klasnic (Bolton) 8; Luis Suarez (Liverpool) 8
Referee: Kevin Friend (Leicestershire).
Everton v Blackburn
Everton manager David Moyes does not expect to have any of his injured players back to face Rovers, with centre-backs Phil Jagielka (knee) and Sylvain Distin (hamstring) missing, while fellow defender Tony Hibbert (groin) has been out for some time, meaning Shane Duffy is likely to continue alongside John Heitinga in the middle of the back four. Midfielders Seamus Coleman (thigh), Leon Osman (knee) and Jack Rodwell (hamstring) have all sat out recent games.
New loan signing Anthony Modeste could make his debut for Blackburn if he receives international clearance in time. The 23-year-old striker, who has moved from Bordeaux, could feature with Ayegbeni Yakubu beginning a three-match suspension. Centre-back Scott Dann is also in contention for a return after recovering from a groin injury while manager Steve Kean will judge Chris Samba's mental state after the defender had a transfer request turned down.
Last season: Everton 2 Blackburn 0, Blackburn 1 Everton 0
Last five league matches: Everton D W L L D; Blackburn L D W L W
Top scorers (all competitions): Leighton Baines & Landon Donovan (Everton) 4; Ayegbeni Yakubu (Blackburn) 13
Referee: Mark Halsey (Lancashire).
Fulham v Newcastle
Mousa Dembele and Orlando Sa will miss out for Fulham. Manager Martin Jol hopes to have the attackers back next week, although they miss out this time with hip and hamstring complaints respectively. Goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer (spine) is still two weeks away from a first-team return, while Zdenek Grygera (knee) is out for the season.
Newcastle boss Alan Pardew will make a late decision on midfielder Yohan Cabaye who is a doubt with an ankle injury. Striker Peter Lovenkrands (calf) has returned to training, but central defender Steven Taylor (Achilles) and midfielders Sylvain Marveaux (groin) and Sammy Ameobi (knee) remain on the sidelines, while enforcer Cheick Tiote and frontmen Demba Ba and new signing Papiss Demba Cisse are on African Nations Cup duty.
Last season: Fulham 1 Newcastle 0, Newcastle 0 Fulham 0
Last five league matches: Fulham L D D W L; Newcastle L W L W W
Top scorers (all competitions): Clint Dempsey (Fulham) 12; Demba Ba (Newcastle) 15
Referee: Lee Mason (Lancashire).
Norwich v Chelsea
Norwich goalkeeper Declan Rudd is out for two months after injuring his knee in training so third-choice Jed Steer comes into the squad as cover for John Ruddy. Full-back Marc Tierney is back in training after recovering from a groin injury.
Gary Cahill could make his Chelsea debut but may have to make do with a substitute role as he settles into his new surroundings. Branislav Ivanovic could earn an immediate recall at right-back after a month out injured, the fit-again Michael Essien is in contention to start after making his comeback from the bench on Saturday, but the game comes too soon for John Obi Mikel (hamstring).
Last season: No corresponding fixture
Last five league matches: Norwich D L D W W; Chelsea D D L W W
Top scorers (all competitions): Steve Morison (Norwich) 9; Frank Lampard (Chelsea) 11
Referee: Mark Clattenburg (Tyne & Wear).
QPR v Wigan
QPR welcome back captain Joey Barton who has missed the past three matches through suspension. Danny Gabbidon will have a hip complaint assessed today, while manager Mark Hughes is unlikely to complete any signings in time to feature. Adel Taarabt and Armand Traore are on African Nations Cup duty and Alejandro Faurlin (knee) is out for the rest of the season.
Wigan midfielder David Jones is doubtful with a calf injury. The bottom club are already without another midfielder in Mohamed Diame, who is on African Nations Cup duty with Senegal. The Latics have no other fitness concerns after Albert Crusat made a successful return from a back injury in Monday's loss to Manchester City.
Last season: No corresponding fixture
Last five league matches: QPR L D L L L; Wigan D L D L L
Top scorers (all competitions): Heidar Helguson (QPR) 8;
Jordi Gomez, Franco Di Santo & Ben Watson (Wigan) 4
Referee: Jon Moss.
Stoke v West Brom
Stoke manager Tony Pulis has just two doubts, with defender Ryan Shotton, who missed last weekend's goalless draw at Liverpool with a foot injury, touch and go, while midfielder Rory Delap, whom Pulis concedes occasionally suffers with cramp in his calf muscles, will also be assessed.
West Brom head coach Roy Hodgson has mixed fitness news. Central defender Jonas Olsson is expected to be fit after injuring his calf, but midfielder Paul Scharner is struggling to overcome the Achilles problem which flared up during last weekend's home clash with Norwich.
Last season: Stoke 1 West Brom 1, West Brom 0 Stoke 3
Last five league matches: Stoke L D D W D; West Brom W D L L L
Top scorers (all competitions): Peter Crouch & Jonathan Walters (Stoke) 8; Shane Long (West Brom) 6
Referee: Anthony Taylor (Cheshire).
Sunderland v Swansea
Sunderland defenders Wes Brown and Titus Bramble could return to the squad after resuming training. Brown has missed the last three games with a groin injury, while Bramble has been sidelined since suffering Achilles and calf problems on Boxing Day. Striker Fraizer Campbell travelled to Chelsea last week after recovering from a second serious knee injury, he is still short of match fitness.
Loan signing Josh McEachran is set to go straight into the Swansea squad. The teenage Chelsea midfielder arrived in south Wales on Monday and could be handed an immediate chance to impress, while fellow midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson is pushing for a start after an excellent second-half performance in the win over Arsenal.
Last season: No corresponding fixture
Last five league matches: Sunderland W D W W L; Swansea L D D W W
Top scorers (all competitions): Sebastian Larsson (Sunderland) 6; Rory Donnelly (Swansea) 12
Referee: Chris Foy (Merseyside).
Wolves v Aston Villa
Wolves skipper Roger Johnson is set to be fit after missing the FA Cup replay against Birmingham with an ankle injury. Full-back Kevin Foley (ankle) and winger Matt Jarvis (hamstring) are also expected to be available. Nine-goal top scorer Steven Fletcher will return along with the other nine players not included for the replay.
Striker Robbie Keane is in contention to make his full Aston Villa debut. The on-loan Los Angeles Galaxy player only appeared as a late substitute against Everton but has impressed manager Alex McLeish in linking up with playmaker Stephen Ireland in training this week. Midfielder Chris Herd (ankle) and veteran striker Emile Heskey (Achilles) are still ruled out.
Last season: Aston Villa 0 Wolves 1, Wolves 1 Aston Villa 2
Last five league matches: Wolves D D D L D; Aston Villa L D W L D
Top scorers (all competitions): Steven Fletcher (Wolves) 9; Darren Bent (Aston Villa) 7
Referee: Martin Atkinson.
Sunday, January 22 Arsenal v Man Utd
Striker Thierry Henry (calf) faces a fitness test for Arsenal, defender Thomas Vermaelen (calf) is a major doubt, while midfielder Mikel Arteta (calf) is not fit. Strikers Marouane Chamakh and Gervinho are away at the African Nations Cup. Defenders Francis Coquelin (hamstring), Kieran Gibbs (groin), Bacary Sagna (ankle), Carl Jenkinson (back) and Andre Santos (ankle) are all still out, along with midfielders Abou Diaby (hamstring) and Jack Wilshere (ankle).
Sir Alex Ferguson is set to welcome back England duo Chris Smalling and Phil Jones for Manchester United. The pair both missed last weekend's win over Bolton after suffering minor injuries in a collision during the Manchester derby. Brazilian midfielder Anderson has been ruled out after suffering a training ground injury, whilst Tom Cleverley (ankle) and Ashley Young (knee) should be back in full training within 10 days.
Last season: Arsenal 1 Man Utd 0, Man Utd 1 Arsenal 0
Last five league matches: Arsenal W D W L L; Man Utd W W L L W
Top scorers (all competitions): Robin van Persie (Arsenal) 22; Wayne Rooney (Man Utd) 18
Referee: Mike Dean (Wirral).
Man City v Tottenham
Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli (ankle) and right-back Micah Richards (hamstring) are fit after both players missed the leaders' 1-0 win at Wigan on Monday. City are still without suspended captain Vincent Kompany while fellow defender Kolo Toure and his brother Yaya are at the African Nations Cup.
Tottenham captain Ledley King only has a small chance of playing as he struggles to recover from the hamstring injury which has sidelined him for the last four weeks. Jermain Defoe is likely to partner Rafael van der Vaart up front as Emmanuel Adebayor is unavailable due to the terms of his loan deal from City. Sandro, William Gallas (both calf) and Tom Huddlestone (ankle) are unavailable.
Last season: Man City 1 Tottenham 0, Tottenham 0 Man City 0
Last five league matches: Man City W D L W W; Tottenham W D W W D
Top scorers (all competitions): Sergio Aguero (Man City) 17; Jermain Defoe (Tottenham) 11
Referee: Howard Webb.
TEAM NEWS: Gary Cahill not included in Chelsea's matchday squad for Norwich City trip
England centre-back fails to make the traveling party after recent move from Bolton, but Daniel Sturridge returns to Andre Villas-Boas' line-up
Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson: Darren Fletcher will not return this season
The Scotland captain is taking an extended break from football after a chronic bowel complaint and would now appear to be out of action until next season
Manchester United's Michael Carrick is a 'Rolls-Royce' of a player, says Paul Scholes
The Red Devils' legend, who recently came out of retirement, believes that his partner in midfield is one of the most underrated players in the Premier League
Steven Gerrard can return Liverpool to summit of English football before he retires - Reds old boy Glenn Hysen
Ex-Anfield defender says the prospect of never winning the Premier League title makes him sad for Gerrard and team-mate Jamie Carragher, but he is buoyed by club's upward mobility
Failure to reach top four would be a disaster, says Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger
The Frenchman believes that Champions League football is a necessity at the Emirates Stadium and refuses to think about finishing below Tottenham and Chelsea
New Chelsea signing Gary Cahill insists he was not greedy during transfer talks
The England international admits it was hard to read the newspapers as rumours circulated that he was demanding the West-London club pay up to £100,000 a week for his services
'Arsenal look vulnerable at full-back and Manchester United know it' - Nigel Winterburn picks his key battles ahead of Emirates Stadium clash
The Gunners legend believes that midfielder Aaron Ramsey could have crucial role in stopping veteran Paul Scholes from calling the shots in the heavyweights' showdown
Carlos Tevez wouldn't even consider a move to Paris Saint-Germain if it weren't for Carlo Ancelotti, insists Kia Joorabchian
The Manchester City forward is on the Ligue 1 side's transfer hitlist, but the attacker's adviser admits that the Italian coach is the only reason to contemplate going to France
The world most expensive bench warmer is pretty choosy
Tevez snubs Paris switch
CARLOS TEVEZ has snubbed a £10million-a-year deal at Paris St Germain.
The Manchester City striker's advisor held talks with Carlo Ancelotti's French club but left without agreeing a transfer.
Tevez, 27, said no to the big-spenders as he wants to join a club already established at the top of European football and challenging for major honours.
PSG football director Leonardo said: "We didn't get a deal with Tevez, maybe we never will."
It means he will hold out for a move to Italians AC Milan or Inter despite neither matching City's £25m asking price.
Tevez would even take a pay cut to get a move to Milan.
Harry Redknapp blasts Mario Balotelli for kick on Scott Parker in Tottenham's loss to Manchester City
The Italian striker scored a last-minute winner in City's epic 3-2 victory at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, but the Spurs boss believes he was lucky to be on the pitch
Manchester City's James Milner hails 'massive' last-gasp victory over Tottenham
The former Aston Villa man admitted that he would've liked the win to be "more boring" and praised matchwinner Mario Balotelli after his injury-time penalty
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson not planning to take Wayne Rooney off penalty duty
The Scot says he will continue with the former Everton man on penalty duty as long as the striker wants to take them, following his miss in the victory over Bolton Wanderers
Juventus lead the race to sign Manchester United youngster Paul Pogba - report
Italian club are believed to be best placed to sign the young Red Devils midfielder, with his Old Trafford contract set to run out following the end of the current campaign
Chelsea technical director watches Lille midfielder Eden Hazard in action - report
The Blues are reported to have watched the young midfielder in action against Marseille, despite manager Andre Villas-Boas suggesting that cup-tied players do not interest him
Leonardo: Paris Saint-Germain willing to 'make sacrifices' in order to sign Manchester City's Carlos Tevez
French club are willing to make exceptions in order to sign the Argentine from Eastlands, where he has been frozen out for the past few months after the Bayern Munich incident
More of the same - spineless defeat to Bolton shows why Liverpool miss Lucas just as much as Luis Suarez
Although their talismanic striker's absence has grabbed all the headlines, it was a lack of solidity in midfield which cost the Reds dearly against the resurgent Trotters
Manchester United target Tottenham's £50m-valued Luka Modric - report
Red Devils are believed to be looking at the Croatian midfielder as a potential long-term replacement for Paul Scholes, who recently came out of retirement to help the club
A year of frustration: Are Chelsea paying the price for persisting with struggling £50m man Fernando Torres?
Nearly a year on from his high-profile transfer to Stamford Bridge, the Spaniard boasts some depressing statistics - can the club afford to wait for an upturn in his form?
Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill declares Ji Dong-Won a required player after loan approaches from foreign clubs
The South Korea international has been mostly used off the bench since moving to the Stadium of Light but the Black Cats boss says he isn't thinking about loaning him out
Socceroo Tim Cahill's breakthrough goal had been coming, says Everton boss David Moyes
The Australia international scored his first goal in more than 13 months in Saturday's 1-1 Premier League draw with Blackburn, prompting praise from his faithful club boss
Alex McLeish suggests Aston Villa would be interested if Robbie Keane wanted permanent Premier League return
The Scot admits he has not contemplated trying to buy the LA Galaxy striker at present but intimates that he would be keen on a move if the Republic of Ireland star left the MLS
Liverpool's Luis Suarez reflects on Bolton defeat: I trust my team-mates but I can't wait to play again
The Uruguayan, who is currently serving an eight-match ban, is looking forward to getting back on the pitch, while Michael Owen admits it's "hard to work out" his former side
'Bolton taught us a lesson' - Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish blasts Reds' approach & insists players weren't ready to play
The Scot believes his squad had one eye on approaching clashes with both Manchester clubs as they were thoroughly beaten by Owen Coyle's relegation-threatened side
'I have no respect for Craig Bellamy' - Bolton's Nigel Reo-Coker hits out at Welshman after win over Liverpool
The Trotters star clashed with the striker at half-time and revealed he does not have a high opinion of his opponent while David Ngog admits it was special to play his former club
Wolves play down reports Emmanuel Frimpong will be out for three months after suffering eye injury against Aston Villa
The midfielder, on loan from Arsenal, went off on a stretcher after being accidentally kicked by Stiliyan Petrov with the club confirming he will undergo further tests on Sunday
Alan Pardew admits Newcastle 'lost the plot' after heavy Fulham defeat
Toon boss also bemoaned referee's decision to award Cottagers a spot kick for their first goal which kick-started an incredible second half turn-around for the home side
Gareth Bale consults Tottenham coaches over move into central position
The Wales international confesses he is in need to change his game after opposing sides started to place two marking players on him
Mark Hughes delighted to pick up first points with QPR after 3-1 win over Wigan
Stunning goals from Tommy Smith and Akos Buzsaky as well as a Heidar Helguson penalty sealed the points despite Hugo Rodellaga's free-kick and another penalty missed by Helguson
Martin Jol thrilled by Fulham's sensational comeback against Newcastle
Dutchman full of praise for hat-trick hero Clint Dempsey after seeing his side come from behind to win seven goal thriller at Craven Cottage
Swansea boss Brendan Rodgers claims referee Chris Foy has 'reined himself in' over two-footed challenges after Sunderland defeat
Swans boss calls Foy's refereeing into question but insists players can hold heads up high after Wearside defeat which he felt was a 'harsh scoreline'
Chelsea's Oriol Romeu: My situation is not comparable to that of Barcelona's Cesc Fabregas
The 20-year-old has asked for people not to compare his career with the former Arsenal man and claims he is not looking to rejoin the Catalan giants any time soon
Chelsea's Andre Villas-Boas rules out bids for cup-tied midfielders Willian & Eden Hazard
The Portuguese coach claims he is 'very satisfied' with his current squad and reveals the returning Michael Essien is nearing a starting position
Andre Villas-Boas defends Fernando Torres as having a ‘major impact’ despite another miss in Chelsea's draw with Norwich City
Blues boss also revealed the club face an anxious wait over Frank Lampard's injury and reveals why Gary Cahill was not selected for the trip to Carrow Road
Manchester City's Mario Balotelli's off-field antics inspire composer to write an opera about his life
After frequently hitting front and back page headlines, the Italian is to have his life story made into a musical courtesy of a local composer and 'biggest City fan in the world'
Samir Nasri: Money not behind move from Arsenal to Manchester City
The 24-year-old insists a quick glance at the Premier League table is enough to explain why he swapped the Emirates for the Etihad in the summer
Manchester City's Yaya Toure: Passing up the chance to join Arsenal was a missed opportunity in my career
The Ivory Coast international struggled to obtain a work permit in his early career, preventing him from a move to a Premier League club
Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew keen on signing defensive cover rather than replacements in aftermath of 5-2 defeat to Fulham
The Magpies manager is keen to bolster his back line with Steven Taylor still ruled out through an Achilles injury, and is looking ahead to Saturday's FA Cup clash at Brighton
Chelsea may not have to meet €35m buyout clause to clinch Willian deal, hints Shakhtar Donetsk CEO
Sergei Palkin reveals the Brazilian playmaker is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge, and suggests the good relationship between the clubs could facilitate an agreement
Bolton move for Al-Nasr striker Ismael Bangoura – report
The Guinea international is reportedly the subject of a bid from the Trotters, who are looking to re-invest the reported £7 million received for defender Gary Cahill
Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas looking for a break from routine as Spain visit beckons for squad
The Blues manager feels a change of scene will do his players good ahead of next Saturday’s FA Cup tie with QPR, and reveals new boy Gary Cahill is in contention to start
Liverpool lead West Ham United & QPR in race for Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic, according to the player's father
The Reds are in pole position for the Croatian, but there is also apparent interest from Mark Hughes' QPR, however the £6m rated star is believed to be eyeing a bigger move
Chelsea fan detained after alleged racist chanting on return train from Norwich draw
The incident took place in the week ahead of the west London club's trip to QPR, with John Terry set to face trial for alleged racist comments made at Loftus Road in October
Gunning for Wenger – Revolt in the stands & Robin van Persie's dissent puts under-pressure Arsenal manager back in the spotlight
The Frenchman faces one of the most testing spells of his 16-year Gunners' reign after his decision-making was openly questioned by his captain and fans against Manchester United
Crisis, what crisis? - Echoes of 2010-11 as Manchester United overcome injuries, criticism & squad unrest in hunt for title No. 20
Manchester City all but ended Tottenham's dreams of becoming champions with a dramatic victory on Sunday but Sir Alex Ferguson's side continue to keep pace at the top of the table
Why always him? - Mario Balotelli showcases the good, bad & ugly sides to his game as Manchester City move closer to title glory
Italian striker won and scored the winning penalty in the dying stages of Sunday's 3-2 win over Tottenham at the Etihad Stadium - but should have been sent-off for stamp on Parker
Yuki Abe returns to Japan after 18-month stint at Leicester City
The 30-year-old defensive midfielder made 59 appearances for the Championship club but appears to have been made redundant by other signings
'We all feel sick that we've lost the game' - Gareth Bale admits Tottenham players are 'devastated' after Manchester City defeat
The Spurs winger reveals that his team-mates "can't quite believe it" after losing 3-2 at the Etihad Stadium, while Jermain Defoe rued his late miss and wished he had "longer legs"
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson expects Phil Jones to miss 'a few weeks' after suffering ankle ligament damage against Arsenal
The Red Devils manager has revealed that "it's not good news" for the England defender after he was stretchered off during his side's 2-1 win over the Gunners on Sunday
Fulham's Clint Dempsey targeting more Premier League goals after hat-trick in win over Newcastle
The American midfielder helped the Cottagers to a 5-2 victory over the Toon Army and spoke of his pride in being "somewhere where the game is valued as much as I value it"
Arsene Wenger concedes substituting Oxlade-Chamberlain for Arshavin was a 'tactical mistake' that cost Arsenal in Manchester United loss
The Gunners boss insists he had good reason to bring on the experienced Russian and is adamant that he doesn't have to explain every single decision after 30 years in the job
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson hails 'fantastic' Danny Welbeck following match-winning goal against Arsenal
The 20-year-old's late strike handed the defending champions a crucial three points as they stayed in touch at the top with a performance that "delighted" their Scottish boss
Manchester United captain Patrice Evra reveals plan to target Arsenal's weak full-backs was key to victory
Red Devils captain also insisted that team spirit will see his side past the post first after they closed the Premier League points gap with Manchester City to just three points
Manchester City assistant boss David Platt praises 'cool' penalty taker Mario Balotelli after Tottenham win
The Citizens number two was delighted with the Italian forward after he netted a crucial last-minute spot-kick which maintains his side's lead at the top of the Premier League
Gunning for Wenger – Revolt in the stands & Robin van Persie's dissent puts under-pressure Arsenal manager back in the spotlight The Frenchman faces one of the most testing spells of his 16-year Gunners' reign after his decision-making was openly questioned by his captain and fans against Manchester United
Jan 23, 2012 9:45:00 AM
By Wayne Veysey at Emirates Stadium
There has been a growing sense of anger and frustration among Arsenal’s followers during what can now only be termed the barren years. It is plain to see when the team conspire to lose a match against less celebrated opponents, when the same mistakes keep being made on the pitch and when another transfer window passes without the addition of the ready-made world-class players the fans crave.
But Sunday’s narrow defeat to Manchester United seemed to represent a kind of watershed for the club. The supporters openly revolted against the decision-making of Arsene Wenger, the leader whose genius for a decade-and-a-half has been best summarised with the wonderfully simplistic and appropriate catchphrase: ‘Arsene knows’.
Not on Sunday he didn’t. Not according to the majority of the 60,000 souls who had paid their hard-earned cash to watch their team and would have a darn good moan if they felt like it. When the No.15 flashed up on the fourth official’s board in the 74th minute to herald the departure of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, a chorus of boos rang across Emirates Stadium. Fans were furious at the decision, especially with the game still on a knife edge.
A few minutes earlier, the gifted teenager had marked an auspicious full Premier League debut with a brilliant reverse pass to tee up Robin van Persie for the equaliser. The captain was none too happy. He looked over to the bench at the sight of Andrey Arshavin making last-second preparations and was captured by the TV cameras screaming an audible ‘No’. At the very least, it qualified as dissent, if not outright rebellion.
Oxlade-Chamberlain was cheered off the pitch for his impressive contribution on the flanks, where he had stood out as the most inventive of Arsenal’s attacking players, some achievement given that his total Premier League action before yesterday had amounted to 41 minutes. His replacement was not so lucky. Arshavin was roundly booed as he trotted on, an ignominy for any Arsenal player, never mind one who will captain his country at this summer’s European Championships and who was widely regarded as a saviour in his early months at the club.
It was a horrible introduction for the little Russian but it soon got worse. Arshavin failed to properly track Antonio Valenica for the winning goal, which was gleefully banged in by Danny Welbeck. Supporters already frustrated with Arshavin’s mere presence on the pitch were now seething. There were more jeers.
Disillusioned | Van Persie openly questioned Wenger's second-half substitution
Although they subsided as Arsenal chased the equaliser, the final whistle heralded a reaction almost unique in Wenger’s 16-year reign. Boos rang out, sustained and loud. Not in little pockets of the stadium, but everywhere across the vast arena. The Frenchman looked around wearily, taking it all in. He appeared shocked, almost nonplussed. Chants of ‘You don’t know what you’re doing’ and ‘Spend some ******* money’ were venomous in tone.
4.5
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TROUBLED TIMES
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PLAYER RATING | DJOUROU
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Got torn apart in the last 10 minutes of the opening half at right-back, a position he seldom looks comfortable in. Replaced by Yennaris at the break.
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PLAYER RATING | ARSHAVIN
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5.0
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A horrible 15 minutes for the little Russian. Jeered by the crowd when he replaced Oxlade-Chamberlain and brushed aside far too easily by Valencia for United's second goal.
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PLAYER RATING | WALCOTT
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4.5
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Veered between the woeful and plain average. His link-up play was desperate, frequently lost possession and wasted the one presentable chance that came his way.
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The fans were not only angered by a third consecutive Premier League defeat, but what they viewed as the part the manager played in it.To his credit, Wenger offered a credible defence of his actions. Although he might have antagonised some even further with his claim that 30 years in management and 50,000 substitutions protected him from having “to explain every single decision”, the Frenchman did spell out why he replaced one of Arsenal’s most effective players on the day with one whose body language verges on the disinterested.
“He [Oxlade-Chamberlain] had started to fatigue and stretch his calf,” said Wenger. “He was sick during the week. You have an 18-year-old kid making his first Premier League start and a player who's captain of his country and they are querying the substitution? Let's be serious.”
Leaving aside the fact that Wenger is far better placed to understand a teenager’s physiology and physical capability than most, there was a more than a hint of arrogance to the Frenchman’s claims that his initial decision to prefer Oxlade-Chamberlain to Arshavin in the starting XI proved his judgement to be right in the first place and, just because fans were paying the most expensive season tickets in the Premier League, it did not mean they were right.For Wenger, it goes further than a single tactical decision. Sure, Oxlade-Chamberlain did not look fatigued. Quite the opposite. He looked full of youthful vigour and energy.
Furthermore, the England Under-21 international, who spent most of the second-half on the left flank, is no left-back. He would have been barely better qualified to track back and take the ball off Valencia than Arshavin, even allowing for the Russian’s aversion to physical contact. The problem for Wenger is that his decision-making is struggling to cope with the forensic scrutiny that accompanies such a prestigious and high-profile post.
The frustration has been building up for years in supporters who were spoiled by the Frenchman for so long. Oxlade-Chamberlain's substitution was merely a lightning conductor for the supporters' suffering. We are three weeks into the window and the only sign of reinforcement to a squad whose injury list year after year is perpetually in double figures during the winter months is the club’s greatest ever player on a seven-week loan.
For all the romance of Thierry Henry’s wonderful comeback goal and the ecstasy of that evening two Mondays ago, he is not going to take the club to this season’s Champions League final or book their passage to next season’s group stages. He won’t be available for a start. Arsenal need high-calibre, permanent cover in the centre-forward, central midfield and full-back positions and, with a £50 million transfer kitty gathering dust, undoubtedly have the means to address these deficiencies.
But Wenger continues to back his current crop of players in the face of logic and common sense. Increasingly, the supporters don’t understand his strategy and, neither, it seems, does his captain. However frustrated Van Persie might have felt at Oxlade-Chamberlain’s withdrawal, it does not bode well that he so openly questioned his manager’s decision.
Revolt in the stands. Revolt in the dressing room. Wenger is facing one of the most challenging spells of his Arsenal career.
Manchester City close in on ground-breaking appointment of Barcelona executive dream team
Former Barca duo Ferran Soriano and Txiki Begiristain are being considered for chief executive and director of football roles at Etihad Stadium in shock move
Paris Saint-Germain's Leonardo: We have ended talks with Manchester City's Carlos Tevez
The Ligue 1 giants were keen to add the Argentina international to their squad, but have decided to halt negotiations after no agreement could be reached with the Eastlands outfit
Brighton plan swoop for Manchester United's Michael Owen - report
Seagulls manager Gus Poyet is set to launch an ambitious bid to bring the Red Devils striker to the Championship club, as they look to bolster their play-off hopes
Chelsea defender Alex to snub QPR and join former manager Carlo Ancelotti at Paris Saint-Germain – report
The centre-back has been exiled by current boss Andre Villas-Boas after his transfer request, with the Brazilian preferring a move to the French capital over Mark Hughes' side
Arsenal's Thierry Henry & Mikel Arteta set to return for Aston Villa FA Cup clash - report
The Gunners pair have both been sidelined with calf injuries recently, missing Sunday's 2-1 defeat to Manchester United, but are to feature for the visit of Alex McLeish's side
QPR eager for Anton Ferdinand not to snub Chelsea captain John Terry’s handshake - report
The west London clubs meet in the FA Cup fourth round this weekend, with the 31-year-old set to face trial for allegedly racially abusing the defender back in October
Manchester City's Sergio Aguero backs 'lovely lad' Mario Balotelli after violent conduct charge
The Italian is set to face a four-match suspension after stamping on Tottenham's Scott Parker, with James Milner also reiterating how important an asset the 21-year-old is
Manchester United & Chelsea target Michel Vorm rubbishes Swansea exit rumours
The Dutch shot-stopper insists he is thoroughly enjoying his time at the Liberty Stadium, while hailing the attractive football played under boss Brendan Rodgers
‘David Silva is the player you have to stop’ – Ex-Liverpool & Manchester City midfielder Dietmar Hamann picks his key League Cup semi-final battles
Former midfield maestro believes Reds can remain on course for first silverware since 2006 and first Wembley final in 16 years, but only if mercurial Spaniard is kept in check
Manchester United’s Nani set to miss FA Cup clash with Liverpool - report
Sir Alex Ferguson may have Phil Jones available for selection for the tie at Anfield, with the defender shrugging off an ankle injury picked up in Sunday's 2-1 Arsenal victory
Tottenham 'are interested in signing on-loan Inter striker Mauro Zarate' from Lazio, claims agent
The Argentine, currently on loan at Inter, is available for £10 million (€12m), with Harry Redknapp keen to secure a loan move for him amid interest from across the continent
Danny Welbeck set to sign new five-year deal at Manchester United within a fortnight - report
The striker scored the winner at Arsenal on Sunday, and is now set to accept a long-term £42,000-a-week contract at Old Trafford with an improved bonus structure
Manchester United end chase for wonderkid Mateo Kovacic after club bosses refuse to sanction £10m for signing
Tottenham & Manchester City now lead race for playmaker described as 'the new Luka Modric' amid fresh questions about Old Trafford finances
Arsenal's Robin van Persie denies rift with Arsene Wenger
The Dutch striker looked dismayed at his French boss' decision to replace Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain with Andrey Arshavin in Sunday's 2-1 defeat to Manchester United
'Manchester United and Manchester City target Nicolas Gaitan is very happy at Benfica', says agent
The Argentine attacker's representative says that his client is focused on helping the club win the league trophy and that no offers have arrived at his desk
Barcelona's Sandro Rosell calls on RFEF to follow FA's example and punish Real Madrid's Pepe
The Blaugrana chief says that the Portuguese defender should be subject to reprimand like Balotelli as the City striker is facing a four-game ban for a similar action
New York Red Bulls' Tim Ream close to completing Bolton move as work permit is granted - report
The Trotters line up the New York Red Bulls defender to replace gap left by Gary Cahill's move to Chelsea and are now set to finalise a deal thought to be worth €3 million
Mario Balotelli 'may think of leaving England' after Manchester City striker is hit with FA violent conduct charge
The player's representative insists the Italian did not intend to stamp on Scott Parker, and the former Inter man has hit out the Football Association's 'absurd regulations'
QPR set to miss out on signing of Sao Paulo's Henrique after work permit is denied
Brazilian youngster's lack of caps at full international understood to be behind decision to scupper move to Loftus Road for the striker
Wojciech Szczesny understands Arsenal fans' frustrations following 2-1 defeat to Manchester United
Keeper says supporters are entitled to opinions and they will work hard to improve results, agreeing it will be a disaster if the club fails to qualify for the Champions League
There have been no bids from Manchester United for Nathaniel Clyne - Crystal Palace manager Dougie Freedman claims he has had no approaches for star players
Right-back has reportedly attracted interest from the Premier League champions after the Championship club's route to the League Cup semi-finals went through Old Trafford
Former Benfica winger Geovanni advises Nicolas Gaitan to choose Manchester United over Manchester City
The 32-year-old has told the in-demand Argentine that the Red Devils would be a better destination for him as he would find playing opportunities hard to come by at City
Trabzonspor’s Burak Yilmaz keen on Arsenal move
The striker has netted 22 goals in 18 league games this season and has cemented his place in the Turkey side during the Euro 2012 qualifiers
FA charges Manchester City's Mario Balotelli with violent conduct after stamp on Tottenham's Scott Parker
The Italian striker faces a four-game ban after clashing with the midfielder during the 3-2 win over Spurs at the Etihad on Sunday and has until Wednesday evening to respond
Injury blow for Sunderland as Nicklas Bendtner told he will require further treatment for facial injury
On-loan Arsenal forward had to be substituted after just 15 minutes during the win over Swansea, a disappointment for the Black Cats after decent form recently
Newcastle United's Hatem Ben Arfa: Carlos Tevez case shows Paris Saint-Germain will struggle to attract star players
The French midfielder believes that the Argentine's reluctance to move to Paris underlines that the game's best players think that Ligue 1 is not competitive enough
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp alleged to have 'avoided tax on bungs', according to prosecution at court hearing
It has been claimed the former Portsmouth manager was paid 'offshore bonuses' by ex-chairman Milan Mandaric which he had no intention of declaring for tax purposes
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard doubtful for FA Cup tie against QPR with small tear in calf muscle
England international went for a scan on Monday which revealed muscle injury after being forced off the pitch during the 0-0 draw with Norwich at Carrow Road on Saturday
Former Arsenal man Samir Nasri: I needed a goal to prove I am 100 per cent with Manchester City
Questions have been asked of the Frenchman, who has struggled for form and has been eclipsed by the likes of Kun Aguero and David Silva since his summer move to the Etihad
Adel Taarabt pleased with changes and set to stay at QPR: If Mark Hughes hadn't come in I may have left in January
Moroccan playmaker had a disappointing start to the season, losing his place in the side and looked set to leave, but after the sacking of Neil Warnock he is now keen to remain
Wigan Athletic agree fee with Birmingham City for Jean Beausejour - Report
Chilean winger looks set for a return to the Premier League with a move from St Andrews to the DW Stadium assuming he can agree personal terms with the bottom-of-the-table Latics
Tottenham have extended Roman Pavlyuchenko's contract, claims agent
The Russia international has not yet started a game in the Premier League this term, although his stay at White Hart Lane looks set to carry on until the summer of 2013
Lucas returns to Liverpool after undergoing surgery in Brazil
The midfielder is eager to begin his rehabilitation after sustaining a cruciate ligament injury in November, adding that fan interaction on Twitter has helped him avoid frustration
Spartak Moscow agree deal with Everton for Diniyar Bilyaletdinov
Russian international looks set for a move back home after struggling for first-team football this season, making just seven league starts from a possible 22
Manchester City and Tottenham target Mateo Kovacic ‘in no hurry’ to leave Dinamo Zagreb
The 17-year-old feels one more year in his homeland will aid his development, while his club are confident of keeping him at least until the end of the current campaign
Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes dismisses impact of his retirement U-turn
The midfielder, who has made three appearances since his return, also praised his side following their win at Arsenal on Sunday
Former Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham backs Paul Scholes for an England comeback at Euro 2012
The former Old Trafford striker believes the midfielder can make an impact at international level and maintains his old club must improve if they are to retain their title
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain eyes regular Arsenal role after making full Premier League debut against Manchester United
The 18-year-old impressed before being replaced by Andrey Arshavin in the second half and the Russian was subsequently responsible for United's winner
