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Arsenal ignore their problems once again, Wolfsburg sign a new team - the losers of the January transfer window
We take an in-depth look at the dealings from the last month, picking out which teams failed to sign their targets, which had moves back-fire, and which were overall duds
Feb 1, 2012 12:30:00 PM
Much was promised in the January transfer window, but in the end, relatively little actually happened. In spite of widespread rumours linking them with moves, Carlos Tevez, Keisuke Honda, Giovani dos Santos, Lucas Barrios and more stayed put.
And as proposed deals collapsed left and right, many teams failed to bring in the reinforcements they had sought last month. Some even acted to sell first, assuming the eventual signing of a player who never came. Indeed, as the deadline struck, there were many 'losers.'
Below, we take a look at the teams that suffered most during the January transfer window.
AJAX
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IN A NUTSHELL
Failed to sign a much-needed winger, and sold the wrong player
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They were in the market for a new winger as in their current squad only Derk Boerrigter and Miralem Sulejmani are Ajax quality, and announced on deadline day that they wanted to sign Heerenveen star Luciano Narsingh. Nevertheless, the 21-year-old ruled out a move to the Amsterdam ArenA shortly after.
To make things even worse, Ajax lost one of their biggest talents for a relatively small fee as Netherlands Under-19 star Ouasim Bouy left the club for Juventus. The midfielder turned down a contract offer in December, and would have been available on a free this summer. Therefore, Ajax had little choice but to cash in on Bouy now.
And to cap a not so successful month, they failed to offload Mounir El Hamdaoui to Fiorentina. The Morocco international is one of the top earners in Amsterdam, but has not played a single game since April after falling out with head coach Frank de Boer. A move to the Viola seemed to be on the cards, but eventually fell through after Ajax demanded a bank guarantee minutes before the window closed, and Fiorentina could not present one on that short notice.
ARSENAL
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IN A NUTSHELL
Needed full-backs, signed an unproven, injury-prone midfielder
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Much of the damage was already done even before Deadline Day for Arsenal, who lost all three of their Premier League games this month largely because Arsene Wenger has had no fit full-backs in his squad.Arsenal should have signed a left-back, even on loan, to see them through this injury crisis while the news that Jack Wilshere could be out until the end of the season has left the Gunners lacking drive in midfield.
Despite having the highest ticket prices in the country and public proclamations that there is money available, Arsenal made just one signing this month, a €750,000 deal for relatively unknown Borussia Dortmund teenager Thomas Eisfeld.
The risk for Arsenal now is that they miss out on the top four finish this season and find themselves in a vicious circle in the summer, when it will be difficult to attract top quality players without the incentive of Champions League football.
LAZIO
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IN A NUTSHELL
Targeted forward reinforcements, but weakened their attack
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In a rare position of strength going into January, the Biancocelesti had high hopes of backing up their elevated league position with a good transfer campaign. However, despite sitting in the box seat in the race to sign Keisuke Honda, they ended up just missing out on the Japanese international's signature, and their late bid to raid Villarreal for Nilmar as a second choice option proved fruitless.
And while they have not lost names of note, they have certainly lost numbers. Djibril Cisse's summer move never came off, with only his debut goal against Milan to show for his 18 league games. But, due to the Honda and Nilmar failures, he has not been replaced.
Elsewhere, Antonio Candreva - who has flattered to deceive in countless settings over recent years - and Emiliano Alfaro have both come in, but they are the only incomings to offset six departures as an already shallow squad just got lighter.
Failing to sign the striking quality they sought while also reducing their squad size does not add up to a good month for Lazio.
MARSEILLE
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IN A NUTSHELL
Indirectly and unwittingly strengthened their rivals
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In a glorious case of irony, Marseille helped strengthen the top contenders for the Ligue 1 title, PSG. In letting Lucho Gonzalez leave for Porto, L'OM set in motion a string of transfers that ended with Thiago Motta moving to the Paris club.
Gonzalez had been struggling this season and was an acceptable loss for Marseille. However, his arrival at Porto allowed the Portuguese side to loan Fredy Guarin to Inter, which in turn facilitated PSG's move for the Brazilian midfielder.
Now, with nine points separating them from the leaders, Marseille have dug themselves an even greater deficit than before. A seemingly harmless move gone awry.
VILLARREAL
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IN A NUTSHELL
Aimed high, had to settle for a second-choice striker
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Having lost star midfielder Santi Cazorla in the summer, Villarreal got off to an awful start in La Liga, winning just one of their first nine games and lurking in the relegation zone before suffering another big blow as they lost striker Giuseppe Rossi to a serious injury.
The January window was just around the corner, though, and seemed an ideal time for the club to strengthen their struggling squad. A new striker was the priority, but the defence had also looked sub-standard and the midfield short of quality following the departure of Cazorla.
The club set their sights on Tottenham's Giovani dos Santos, but failure to free funds through the sale of Nilmar means the club were unable to sign the Mexican, and are stuck with an injury-prone and under-performing forward who does not want to be at the club.
Meanwhile, the deadline-day arrival of Argentine Alejandro Martinuccio looks like a Plan B at best and the squad remains short in other areas. The only plus point: the club have found some form under new coach Jose Molina. But they remain in the bottom three and desperately need to avoid further injuries if they are to beat the drop. This transfer window was a missed opportunity for Villarreal.
WOLFSBURG
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IN A NUTSHELL
Sold (almost) entire team, signed a new one
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When Monchengladbach host Wolfsburg on Saturday, Marco Reus & co. will recognise only a couple faces from the last time the two sides squared off. During the transfer window, Felix Magath made no fewer than eight signings, and sent away six either on loan or as full transfers.
Wolfsburg's willingness to freely move players in and out of the Volkswagen Arena is risky, and to some extent nonsensical. The Lower Saxons stand in mid-table now, and have absolutely no chance of qualifying for the Champions League. But with just five points separating them from potential relegation to the 2. Bundesliga, to roll the dice by making such wholesale changes is to take a massive risk.
It would be unfair to write off Wolfsburg's new signings already, but their policy has a familiar tune with an unsavoury precedent, and smacks of despair. Time will tell whether Magath has signed the next Dzeko, Misimovic and Grafite - or whether he simply signed the next batch of duds to be shown the door in six months.
Valencia striker Roberto Soldado: The comments from Barcelona president Sandro Rosell likely influenced the referee
The Spain international claimed that Jose Manuel Pinto was guilty of a clear hand ball and accused referee Jose Luis Gonzalez of not having the 'courage' to blow his whistle
Valencia's Manuel Llorente refuses to criticise referee after Barcelona draw
The patron of Los Che insists it is not in his team's psyche to publicly disclose their opinion on an officiating performance, but feels Jose Manuel Pinto's handball was "blatant"
Vitor Baia: Real Madrid's Jose Mourinho would have been a good coach for Barcelona
The former Camp Nou goalkeeper has stated the belief that his Portuguese compatriot would have done a good job had the current Champions League holders employed him
Mesut Ozil: I want to stay with Real Madrid until the end of my career
The Germany international playmaker is very happy with life at the Santiago Bernabeu, has no intention of trying his luck elsewhere and wants to retire at the Spanish giants
Barcelona's Javier Mascherano: Valencia Copa del Rey tie is in our hands
The Argentine midfielder was quite satisfied with the Blaugranas' performance, and feels they have everything in their own hands, despite drawing the game at Mestalla
Barcelona's Pep Guardiola: Jose Manuel Pinto's sending off would have changed Valencia match
The Blaugrana coach reckons that the goalkeeper's sending off would have damaged his side, while stressing he is very happy with the stalemate away from home soil
Zaragoza release centre-back Fernando Meira after injury-plagued spell
The Liga strugglers have decided to part company with the Portuguese stopper after he suffered several knocks since his arrival at the club last summer
Former Spain international Gaizka Mendieta: Pep Guardiola will soon leave Barcelona
The retired midfielder expects Guardiola to take charge of a new club soon and has suggested the Serie A as a strong possibility
Villarreal's Nilmar yet to agree personal terms with Sao Paulo - report
Cash-strapped Villarreal have already accepted a bid believed to be in the region of €8 million for the player but the transfer is being held up because a dispute over wages
Barcelona star Lionel Messi gives the ball away more than any other Primera Division player - report
The three-time Ballon d'Or winner is considered the finest dribbler in the game today but he has turned over possession 279 times so far this season
Barcelona president Sandro Rosell: Refereeing decisions are going against us this season
The 47-year-old believes that Pep Guardiola's men have not had their fair share of luck during the current campaign and is hoping that things soon even themselves out
Pep Guardiola: Barcelona have been humble in defeat
The 41-year-old believes that his team have played well all season and has reiterated that his players are not unduly critical of referees
Barcelona star Lionel Messi gives the ball away more than any other Primera Division player - report The three-time Ballon d'Or winner is considered the finest dribbler in the game today but he has turned over possession 279 times so far this season
Feb 1, 2012 6:20:00 PM
By Mark Doyle
Barcelona's Lionel Messi gives the ball away more than other play in La Liga, according to statistics published by SuperDeporte.
The Argentina international is considered the finest dribbler in the game today but has conceded possession 279 times so far this season.
Second and third place on the list are occupied by Espanyol duo Didac Vila (251) and Joan Verdu (241).
However, Messi's importance to Barca is underlined by the fact that the Catalans have won 89 per cent of the games in which he has scored.
The champions have won just 52% of the matches in which the Argentine, who has had more shots on goal than any other player, has failed to net.
Messi has scored 141 goals in 197 Liga games for Barca since making his debut back in 2004.
Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso resumes squad training
The influential midfielder has recovered from a muscular problem, and is expected to feature for the Santiago Bernabeu outfit against Getafe on Saturday
Manchester City's Carlos Tevez still intent on going to Italy or Spain
The unsettled Argentine insists that he would only consider a move to Serie A or La Liga, despite his transfer to AC Milan failing to materialise in the January window
Barcelona attacker Alexis Sanchez match fit for Real Sociedad clash - report
The Chile international has being plagued by muscular problems, but is widely expected to feature in Saturday's La Liga fixture against Phillipe Montanier's outfit
Real Madrid midfielder Esteban Granero warns against complacency ahead of Getafe clash
The Spanish midfielder has stressed that the match at the Coliseum will not be an easy one for the Blancos, and added that La Liga is not decided yet despite their healthy lead
Luis Garcia plays down absence of Real Madrid's Marcelo in Saturday's La Liga match
The 39-year-old coach says that Los Blancos have more quality solutions at left-back, while hailing both club's excellent run of form ahead of the match
Radamel Falcao says Atletico Madrid's hard work is paying off
The Colombian is thrilled that the club are finally starting to show some positive form, while he refused to be drawn into the controversy surrounding refereeing in Spain
Thiago Alcantara insists Barcelona do not depend on Lionel Messi
The Spain international has guaranteed that his side do not revolve around Messi and stated that the Liga title could remain at Camp Nou
Esteban Granero says Real Madrid support Jose Mourinho 'to the death'
The Spanish midfielder stressed that there is not any problem between the former Chelsea boss and the players and said he is happy with his situation at the club
Barcelona's Seydou Keita: Real Madrid and Juventus wanted me
The Mali international, who is currently away on Africa Cup of Nations duty, has revealed that he was advised not to leave Sevilla for the Catalans back in 2008
Real Madrid offer condolences to families of Port Said riot victims
The violence, which has claimed the lives of at least 73 people, has shocked the footballing world and the Liga leaders have been moved to issue a statement on the tragedy
La Liga preview: Barca need a Pep talk 3 February 2012
Barcelona are losing ground on La Liga leaders Real Madrid and desperately need to beat Real Sociedad on Saturday. Pep Guardiola's men have drawn three consecutive games in all competitions, including a 0-0 result at Villarreal last time out in the league. As a consequence, they have allowed fierce rivals Real Madrid to move seven points clear at the top.
A home clash against Real Sociedad on Saturday could help them kick-start their campaign, unbeaten at the Nou Camp in their last 28 league matches.The star-studded Barcelona will be hopeful Argentine maestro Lionel Messi (22 league goals) can find the net having failed to score in the three draws leading into this encounter.
While Barcelona may have knocked them out of the Copa del Rey, Real Madrid have taken full advantage in the league.Jose Mourinho's side have won five consecutive league games, although a trip to face Getafe on Saturday shapes as a danger game. Manager Luis Garcia Plaza's men are unbeaten in six league outings, but will need to stop the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo (24 league goals) and Gonzalo Higuain (14) if they are to extend that run.
Meanwhile, Espanyol and Athletic Bilbao meet in a clash between the sides placed fifth and sixth respectively. Marcelo Bielsa's Bilbao should be eyeing fifth spot with Espanyol failing to win in their last 10 league visits to Estadio San Mames.
In another intriguing clash, seventh-placed Atletico Madrid host Unai Emery's Valencia on Sunday. Diego Simeone has had a dream start as Atletico Madrid boss, with three wins and a draw in his four games in charge.But that unbeaten record will be put to the test by Valencia, who are unbeaten in five outings in all competitions and have had striker Roberto Soldado (12 league goals) firing.
In other matches, Mallorca host Real Betis on Saturday, while Racing Santander travel to Levante.Assistant coach Inaki Tejada will take on first-team duties at struggling Sporting Gijon when they host Osasuna after Manuel Preciado was sacked on Tuesday. Villarreal travel to Sevilla on Sunday, relegation battlers Real Zaragoza and Rayo Vallecano clash, while Malaga visit Granada on Monday.
Real Madrid offer condolences to families of Port Said riot victims The violence, which has claimed the lives of at least 73 people, has shocked the footballing world and the Liga leaders have been moved to issue a statement on the tragedy
Feb 2, 2012 5:00:00 PM
By Mark Doyle
Real Madrid have sent their condolences to the families of those who died during the violence which erupted after an Egyptian Premier League clash in Port Said on Wednesday.
At least 73 people are known to have died after Al-Masry fans streamed onto the pitch to attack Al-Ahly players, officials and supporters.
The incident has shocked the footballing world and the Primera Division leaders have been moved to issue a statement on the tragedy.
"Real Madrid C. F. deeply regrets yesterday's events in Port Said and wishes to express its support and most sincere condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Egypt," read an article on the club's official website.
During an emergency assembly of the Egyptian parliament for Thursday morning, Prime Minister Kamal al-Ganzouri announced the dissolution of the country's Football Association and vowed that those responsible for the riot would be brought to justice.
Valencia's Aritz Aduriz: We need three points against Atletico Madrid
The striker scored a brace last week in the 2-2 draw against Racing Santander and is hoping that his side can get back to winning ways at the Vicente Calderon on Sunday
Atletico Madrid's Thibaut Courtois wants Vicente Calderon crowd to act as 12th man against Valencia on Sunday
The capital-city side host Unai Emery's men this weekend and the Belgian stopper is hoping that the home faithful can help Diego Simeone's team make it difficult for the visitors
Chelsea target Gonzalo Higuain will not leave Real Madrid until he wins the Champions League, claims agent
Speculation of a Santiago Bernabeu exit for the Argentina international striker has been consistent in the press but he is eyeing European success with the Spanish giants
Cristiano Ronaldo is better than Lionel Messi ... at least when it comes to taking penalties
The Portuguese has fluffed just one spot-kick since joining Madrid, while the Argentine's failure to convert for Barca against Valencia on Wednesday was his seventh career miss
Former Arsenal youngster Fran Merida vows to prove his worth at Atletico Madrid
The Spanish midfielder is determined to become an influential member in the squad, but has warned that it will take him some time to return to match fitness
Benfica's Rodrigo targets contract extention, reveals father
The reported Real Madrid target is open to the idea of signing a new contract in the summer after impressing for the club in the first half of 2011-12
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola hails Lionel Messi's quality: 'When he is not as his best, he is still superior to other players'
The 41-year-old coach is unconcerned about the Argentine star's state of mind, while stressing he is not thinking about the result of Real Madrid's game
Barcelona's Thiago Alcantara: No one should talk about referees
The 20-year-old believes that debating decisions detracts from the sport and that the focus of everyone's attention should be the beauty of the game
‘We are all under pressure from Jose Mourinho’ - Chelsea's Andre Villas-Boas wary of Real Madrid coach
Having worked under the Portuguese manager, the current Blues boss - who has only been at Stamford Bridge since the summer - is worried about his return to English football
Eric Abidal: I was always going to stay at Barcelona
The defender's previous deal was set to expire at the end of the current campaign but he insisted that he never seriously entertained the idea of departing for pastures new
Real Madrid assistant coach Aitor Karanka criticises Barcelona's treatment of referees
Jose Mourinho's number two says the Blaugrana are aware that they target match officials and has backed Nuri Sahin to overcome his difficult start to life in the Spanish capital
Jose Mourinho to make spectacular Chelsea return & leave Real Madrid in summer - report
The 'Special One’ has taken the Spanish giants to top of La Liga but is rumoured to be considering a return to Stamford Bridge if owner Roman Abramovich will give him more control
Barcelona goalkeeper Oier Olazabal agrees contract extension until 2015
The promising shot stopper has reached an agreement with the Catalans over a new deal and will stay at Camp Nou for several more years
La Liga wrap: Real maintain advantage 5 February 2012
Real Madrid maintained their seven-point lead over Barcelona at the top of La Liga with the top two picking up wins on Saturday.Sergio Ramos' header on 18 minutes was all that separated the league leaders and Getafe while Barcelona survived late pressure to defeat Real Sociedad 2-1.
Local rival Getafe started brightly at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez and almost took the lead on three minutes through Abdelaziz Barrada, but he blazed over the bar.After Ramos' goal from Mesut Oezil's corner, Real rarely stepped out of second gear and despite creating few chances managed to end Getafe's six-game unbeaten streak.
Barcelona asserted their early dominance at Camp Nou to go ahead on nine minutes through Christian Mello, who poked home his first goal for the club after a neatly timed through ball from Lionel Messi.It was not until the 72nd minute that the reigning champions extended their advantage.Messi latched on to Dani Alves' clipped ball to cushion past the goalkeeper, ending the Argentine's three-game run without a goal.
Levante's hopes of catching city rivals Valencia in third place were dealt a blow with a 1-1 draw at home to struggling Racing Santander. Arouna Kone put the hosts ahead on 23 minutes with a close-range header but Levante wasted further chances to go ahead.Profligacy would cost them dear as Manuel Arana rescued a point for relegation-threatened Racing Santander with a fine finish into the top corner.
Athletic Bilbao conceded a late equaliser in an entertaining 3-3 draw with Espanyol, dropping points that would have seen them leapfrog Levante into fourth. Juan Albin's ferocious shot in the 93rd minute stunned the home side who dominated the early stages and went ahead through Oscar 23 minutes in.Romaric and Vladimir Weiss scored to put the visitors ahead before Fernando Llorente made it 2-2 in the 58th minute.
Bilbao clung to Javi Martinez's 65th minute goal that put them up 3-2 before the late drama unfolded.Chori Castro scored the only goal, in the first half, as nine-man Real Mallorca held on to beat Real Betis 1-0.Mallorca almost extended their lead in the second half following Castro's curled free kick but saw Ivan Ramis and Victor both sent off late in the match. Earlier, Mario suffered the same fate for Betis, but with little time left the visitors failed to make their numerical advantage count.
Barcelona's Cristian Tello thanks Pep Guardiola for show of faith
The 20-year-old forward opened the scoring at Camp Nou against Real Sociedad and was grateful to his coach for entrusting him with a starting role in such a key game
Left out in the cold - bumbling Barcelona face a confidence crisis as Real Madrid remain robust in La Liga
The Catalans did enough to beat Real Sociedad but endured a nervy finish to a 2-1 win at a chilly Camp Nou while their rivals reaffirmed their credentials in the capital
Barcelona's Victor Valdes: We have the best youth system in the world
The Spain international was enthused by the performance of not only 20-year-old forward Cristian Tello but also Isaac Cuenca and Jonathan Dos Santos against Real Sociedad
Emilio Butragueno insists Real Madrid are very happy with coach Jose Mourinho
The Blancos' legend has reassured supporters that the Portuguese trainer will stay put for the foreseeable future, after claiming the club are not aware of his desire to move on
Barcelona's Pep Guardiola delighted with performances of Cristian Tello, Isaac Cuenca and Jonathan dos Santos during win over Real Sociedad
The Blaugrana boss has hailed his team for playing more eye-catching football, while reserving special praise for youngsters Cristian Tello, Isaac Cuenca and Jonathan Dos Santos
Barcelona's Sergio Busquets suffers suspected knee injury against Real Sociedad
The defensive midfielder could face a lengthy period on the sidelines after an omnious-looking collision with Carlos Martinez during the latter stages of Barca's win on Saturday
Real Madrid's Xabi Alonso dismisses Pepe handball claims against Getafe
The playmaker insists his Portuguese team-mate was not able to move his hand out of the way in time, during a victory which he claims was important for carrying on their momentum
Sergio Ramos commends Real Madrid's efficiency following win over Getafe
The Spaniard is confident the Blancos are well-equipped to challenge for honours after claiming their collective effort should see them out for the rest of the season
Agent: Lazio offered more than €10 million for Nilmar
The player's representative in Italy revealed that his client came very close to joining the Serie A side on the final day of the winter transfer window
La Liga wrap: Sevilla stunned by resurgent Villarreal 6 February 2012
Sevilla were stunned 2-1 by a Villarreal side deep in relegation trouble in the pick of Sunday's La Liga action. Javier Camunas netted the winning goal nine minutes from time, helping to lift Villarreal out of the drop zone and condemning the hosts to their worst run since 2001.
Villarreal's resurgence under Jose Molina continued against Sevilla and their opening goal was a truly breathtaking passage of play, including 13 passes, which was finished off by Borja Valero. Attempting to end a run of six matches without a win, Sevilla levelled in fortuitous circumstances when Bruno put into his own net before Camunas' opportunistic strike in the 81st minute gave Molina his first win away from home.
Inaki Tejada was denied victory in his first match in charge of Sporting Gijon after Dejan Lekic's strike rescued a point for Osasuna.Gijon took the lead in a match played in torrential rain when Nacho Cases provided a piece of quality in the opening 45 minutes.His magical cross found Carmelo Gonzalez who simply had to guide it into the net.
Osasuna dug deep to stay in contention, surviving Gregory Arnolin's diabolical miss when he headed wide from inside the six-yard box.And it proved crucial as Lekic converted Marc Bertran's cross to secure an unlikely point for the visitors.
In Zaragoza, Rayo Vallecano inflicted more pressure on Manolo Jimenez after coming from behind to beat the home side 2-1.The loss means Real Zaragoza are still 10 points from safety after Rayo scored twice in the last 15 minutes to win. Former Tottenham striker Helder Postiga scored the opener for Zaragoza with a quality volley in the first half.
And in the late match, Valencia and Atletico Madrid played out a physical 0-0 draw in a match where the home side's goalkeeper Diego Alves and defender Adil Rami stole the show with numerous vital stops.
Javier Mascherano: One Real Madrid slip-up and Barcelona are back in La Liga race
The Argentine midfielder claims the Catalans have not given up on the league title and says his side will have no problem congratulating Madrid if they win the Primera Division
Mario Kempes says Lionel Messi's level 'has dropped' in recent matches for Barcelona
The retired striker blames lack of rest for the diminutive winger's recent sub-par displays and believes Barca are still in contention for the Liga title
Official: Sevilla fire head coach Marcelino
The Primera Division outfit have decided to part company with their trainer, as disappointing results that have seen them languish in mid-table this season
Schalke striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar: I do not regret spells with Real Madrid & AC Milan
The Netherlands international has looked back at his time in La Liga and Serie A with a positive outlook of the experience and is enjoying playing in Germany
Diego Simeone calls on his Atletico Madrid team to keep improving after 0-0 draw with Valencia
After hard-fought draw with Valencia, the Argentine says that his side need to work on their attacking performances but commended his players for taking a point against Los Che
'Congratulations crack and idol' - Neymar sends birthday wishes to Cristiano Ronaldo
The Brazilian youngster shares his birthday with the Portuguese superstar, and confessed that the Real Madrid man is one of his idols
Bobby Charlton: Jose Mourinho is successful, but Barcelona are the team to beat
The former England international is full of respect for the Real Madrid coach, but feels that Pep Guardiola's Catalan outfit are still the best team in the world
Unai Emery insists Valencia do not have third place secured after Atletico Madrid draw
The Spanish coach believes that his side will have to work hard until the end of the season to retain their spot in the standings after picking up an important point at Atletico
Benfica ponder move for Malaga's Diego Buonanotte - report
The Portuguese club are once again said to be interested in the creative midfielder, who has been unable to make his mark at La Rosaleda since his arrival
Cristian Tello: My wish to succeed at Barcelona made me return
The Spanish winger noted that it was his wish to prove himself at Camp Nou made him return to the club, while thanking Pep Guardiola for trusting in him
Alvaro Arbeloa feels Real Madrid could have scored more against Getafe
The full-back has stressed that the Blancos could have added a second, and underlined the importance of keeping a clean sheet
Barcelona's Andoni Zubizarreta denies approach for Gareth Bale
It had been claimed that the former Spain goalkeeper had recently travelled to England to discuss a deal with the Premier League outfit for the Wales international
Karanka: Real Madrid never looked like dropping points against Getafe
Sergio Ramos scored the only goal of the game after just 18 minutes of play and Jose Mourinho's assistant felt that Los Blancos were comfortable for the entire match
Golden Shoe race looks set to be a three-way tussle between Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi & Robin van Persie The Dutchman's hat-trick over Blackburn allowed him to gain on the Spain-based duo, while the gap between the two foes has closed thanks to the Argentine's strike on Saturday
Feb 6, 2012 3:40:00 PM
By Enis Koylu Cristiano Ronaldo's failure to score in Real Madrid's 1-0 victory over Getafe, coupled with Lionel Messi's strike to seal Barcelona's win over Real Sociedad, saw the Argentine move to just two points behind the Portuguese superstar, level with Trans Narva's Aleksandrs Cekulajevs.
Elsewhere, Robin van Persie scored a hat-trick as Arsenal got a much-needed victory over Blackburn Rovers, moving the Dutchman clear of Trabzonspor's Burak Yilmaz, who failed to prevent his side from losing to Antalyaspor.
Seydou Doumbia is still on international duty with Cote D'Ivoire, but Senegal's early exit from the tournament allowed Demba Ba to return home and score for Newcastle, sending him level in the standings with Klaas-Jan Huntelaar.
Elsewhere, Antonio Di Natale's strikes against Fiorentina and Lecce saw him overtake AC Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Koln's Lukas Podolski and move into joint eighth spot, level with Huntelaar and Doumbia.
Rank
Player
Country
Club
League
Weight
Goals
Points
1
C. Ronaldo
POR
Real Madrid
ESP
2
24
48
2
A Cekulajevs
LVA
Trans*
EST
1
46
46
3
L. Messi
ARG
Barcelona
ESP
2
23
46
4
R. v Persie
NED
Arsenal
ENG
2
22
44
5
B. Yilmaz
TUR
Trabzonspor
TUR
1.5
25
37.5
6
S. Doumbia
CIV
CSKA
RUS
1.5
24
36
7
M. Gomez
GER
Bayern
GER
2
17
34
8
K. Huntelaar
NED
Schalke
GER
2
16
32
Demba Ba
SEN
Newcastle
ENG
2
16
32
A. Di Natale
ITA
Udinese
ITA
2
16
32
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* = league season finished
History & How It Works
In 1967-68, French football magazine L'Equipe opted to hand out an award to the top goalscorer in all European leagues for his good performances during the season. Between 1968 and 1991, high profile names such as Eusebio, Gerd Muller, Ian Rush and Marco van Basten won the coveted trophy.
However, the gap between big and small leagues started to grow in the early 90s and L'Equipedecided to make the competition unofficial after the Cyprus Football Association (CFA) issued a protest in 1991. Darko Pancev won the award that season with 34 goals, but the CFA claimed that a player had scored 40 goals in Cyprus that term.
Adidas, sponsor of the awards, still handed out the trophy until 1996 before European Sports Magazine (with L'Equipe as a member) decided to make the title official again. ESM divided all European leagues in three groups according to strength, and attached to each group a quotient by which the number of goals is multiplied to obtain the player's rating. The European Golden Shoe was thus no longer necessarily handed to the top goalscorer, but to the player with the most points.
The weightings are determined by the league's ranking on the Uefa coefficients, which in turn depend on the results of each league's clubs in European competition over the previous five seasons. Goals scored in the top five leagues according to the Uefa coefficients are multiplied by a factor of two, and goals scored in the leagues ranked six to 21 are multiplied by 1.5. Goals in all other leagues are all worth one single point.
This measure has prevented players from so-called weaker leagues from winning the European Golden Shoe, since a goal scored in, for example, Armenia, Estonia or Azerbaijan, carries less weight than a goal scored in Serie A, La Liga, the Bundesliga or the Premier League.
Players such as Thierry Henry, Cristiano Ronaldo, Diego Forlan and Lionel Messi have won the European Golden Shoe in the past few seasons.
Jose Callejon confident Jose Mourinho will stay at Real Madrid
The 24-year-old believes that the Portuguese coach will remain at the Santiago Bernabeu at the end of the season and says los Blancos are favourites to win La Liga
Official: Sevilla appoint Michel as new coach
The former Getafe boss has taken the reins at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan until the end of the season, following the dismissal of Marcelino, who was sacked on Monday
Christoph Metzelder fears Real Madrid may not wait around for Nuri Sahin
The German stopper has warned his former Borussia Dortmund colleague that he may find it difficult to achieve continuity in the Spanish capital after an injury-hit baptism of fire
Barcelona set sights on AC Milan defender Thiago Silva - report
The Catalan giants are looking to strengthen their defence this summer, and have earmarked the Brazilian as the perfect signing and they believe a €30m bid may be enough
Iker Casillas set to equal Manuel Sanchis' record of 437 full La Liga matches for Real Madrid
The shot stopper's name will be added to Los Blancos' record books if he features for the full 90 minutes in the upcoming league game against Levante at the weekend
Barcelona's Javier Mascherano feels Valencia tie is still wide open
The Argentine midfielder has stated his belief that the Copa del Rey final-four encounter is far from decided, and stressed that the Catalans will fight until the end
Barcelona named Laureus Team of the Year
Forward Lionel Messi and defender Eric Abidal were both up for individual awards but they missed out to tennis ace Novak Djokovic and golf star Darren Clarke respectively
Barcelona's Javier Mascherano: Lionel Messi looks fine to me
The versatile Argentine midfielder is bemused by Mario Kempes' claim that the Catalans' talismanic No.10 is playing poorly of late and in need of a break
Iker Casillas set to equal Manuel Sanchis' record of 437 full La Liga matches for Real Madrid The shot stopper's name will be added to Los Blancos' record books if he features for the full 90 minutes in the upcoming league game against Levante at the weekend
Feb 7, 2012 9:20:00 AM
By Stefan Coerts
Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas is set to equal club legend Manuel Sanchis as the player with the most completed La Liga appearances for the Spanish giants, AS reports.
Sanchis featured in 437 league matches for the full 90 minutes during his spell at the club from 1983 until 2001.
Casillas has up to date taken part in 441 La Liga matches for Real Madrid, but the 30-year-old came off the bench once, while he did not stay on the pitch until the final whistle on four occasions as he was dismissed twice, and was replaced due to injury in the other two appearances.
The Spain international will equal Sanchis' record if he features for the full 90 minutes in Sunday's home game against Levante, and could become the sole record holder against Racing Santander one week later.
Casillas, who has a contract with Real Madrid until the summer of 2017, has so far made 603 official appearances for Madrid in all competitions.
Barcelona named Laureus Team of the Year Forward Lionel Messi and defender Eric Abidal were both up for individual awards but they missed out to tennis ace Novak Djokovic and golf star Darren Clarke respectively
Feb 6, 2012 11:30:00 PM
By Mark Doyle
Barcelona have been named as the Laureus team of the year for 2011 at an awards ceremony in London on Monday night.
The Catalans, who won La Liga, the Champions League, the Spanish Supercup and the Fifa Club World Cup over the course of last year, beat off competition for the prize from NBA champions Dallas Mavericks, Formula 1 outfit Red Bull, Rugby World Cup winners New Zealand, England’s cricket team and the Japanese women’s national football side.
The Laureus World Sports Awards were set up in 1999 to recognise outstanding achievement by athletes and teams across the sporting year, and Barcelona were also represented in two other categories with Lionel Messi nominated for World Sportsman of the Year and Eric Abidal up for World Comeback of the Year.
However, Messi, who last month collected his third consecutive Fifa Ballon d’Or, was beaten to the top gong by tennis ace Novak Djokovic.
Meanwhile, Abidal, who recovered from an operation to have a tumour removed on his liver in time to lift the Champions League trophy, missed out to golf star Darren Clarke.
Speaking before the event, Barca president Sandro Rosell vowed that the club would “keep on applying ourselves and maintain this level [of excellence] in the coming years.
“The nominations of Abidal, Messi and the club are an honour, and it will help us keep on working and thinking about how to keep up this level in the future.
“It’s very hard to achieve things in life, but it’s harder still to maintain that level [of excellence].”
Barcelona are currently second in La Liga, seven points adrift of leaders Real Madrid, but are closing in on a place in the final of the Copa del Rey and are set to resume the defence of their Champions League title later this month.
Gianfranco Zola: The majority of fans admire Barcelona for their fantastic football
The former Italy international has hailed the Spanish giants' style of play, and believes they have what it takes to successfully defend their Champions League crown
Lilian Thuram: Barcelona are good for world football
The former defender has spoken positively about the team he represented for two years, and believes Pep Guardiola's men have an advantage over rivals Real Madrid
Real Madrid duo Angel Di Maria & Sami Khedira resume squad training
The Germany international and his Argentine team-mate are on the verge of making their comebacks after both players have had spells on the sidelines due to injury
Barcelona striker David Villa optimistic about featuring at Euro 2012
The Spain international sustained a fractured leg during the Club World Cup in December, but is hopeful of returning to match action before this summer's Euros
Gaizka Mendieta: My Valencia had the measure of Barcelona
The former Spain international, who played for both clubs, has fond memories of his time at Mestalla when Los Che were more than a match for their Catalan rivals
Franco Baresi: Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos better in central defence than at right-back
The Spain international is essentially a right-back but Baresi feels that that he belongs in the middle of the defence
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola: Sergio Busquets is doubtful for Valencia clash
The midfielder suffered a cut to his right knee after colliding with Real Sociedad defender Carlos Martinez during the closing stages of Saturday's 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad
Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone: I'll coach Lazio one day
The former Biancocelesti midfielder only took charge of the Rojiblancos over the winter break but he has reiterated that he will return to the Stadio Olimpico in the future
Barcelona's Lionel Messi to launch 'Leo' wine label in Argentina
The 'Leo' wine range will be hitting the shelves from April, with the profits going towards charities which help vulnerable children and adolescents
Barcelona will win the Champions League, says Ludovic Giuly
The former France international has no doubt about the success Barca will have in the prestigious European competition and says Guardiola is one of the top coaches in the game
Unai Emery: Lionel Messi is not in a poor run of form for Barcelona
The 40-year-old coach insists that the Argentine remains as strong as ever, while saying that Wednesday's clash at Camp Nou is very important for his side
Scientists try to explain Messi genius The sublime skills of Barcelona's Lionel Messi could be due to an ability to glean more information from a single gaze than any other player, say researchers.
"We were interested in the underlying mechanisms of expert performance in sport," said Professor Norbert Hagemann from the University of Kassel in an article in UEFA.com. "Footballers are active on a huge field and have to attend to, or view, so many people on the field that we believed the best player could attend to more players at the same time."
But Messi doesn't just see more on the football pitch. Like a trained hunter, he obtains more information from his surroundings than lesser-skilled players. Terming it as "longer fixed duration", the scientists believe that skillful players seem naturally blessed with an increased sensorial awareness - like the famed "sixth sense" myth.
They found this out by showing amateur footballers various football situations and noting down their opinions in each case. However, the ability to see more in any situation is not just down to innate talent. Experience plays a part as well. Lesser-skilled players can improve their understanding of the game by gaining a larger knowledge base.
"The less skilled player has to learn the structure of play, the patterns of the movements and so on. They have to build a knowledge base that helps them discover the relevant information in the current situation", said Prof. Hagemann. This is probably a reason why certain managers prefer to recruit older players even if their physical attributes are on the decline.
And combining a large knowledge base with the "longer fixed duration" can be the most potent combination that only a select few players possess, enrapturing us with their breathtaking feats. "If the best footballer already knows what is going to happen then they will know where to direct their attention," says Hagemann.
"Players like Messi are great at decision-making. They have anticipation abilities that help them solve complex problems in the best possible way." Currently in the La Liga, Messi has played 21 games and scored 23 goals, one shy of Cristiano Ronaldo. The Real Madrid man himself was the subject of a riveting documentary by Castrol last year, when a battery of tests was performed on him, to figure out what made him better than almost every other player on the planet.
Messi will be involved in the second-leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Valencia on Wednesday night before travelling to Osasuna for a La Liga fixture on Saturday. But the most anticipated match of the near future is Barcelona's upcoming round-of-16 Champions League clash against German outfit Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday, February 14.
Messi has top-scored in the competition for three successive seasons and leads the pack this year as well, having notched up six strikes to be joint top with Bayern Munich's Mario Gomez.
Real Madrid's Hamit Altintop sustains calf injury
The Turkish midfielder is set for a new spell on the sidelines after suffering another knock and could be out of action for several weeks
Kings of Europe - Barcelona & Real Madrid look set to rule the roost both at home and abroad for the next decade thanks to their fabulous finances
The Spanish giants top the Deloitte money list once again and are widening the gap on their continental rivals, making a period of domination inevitable over the next 10 years
Pablo Aimar proud to have inspired Barcelona star Lionel Messi
The Benfica midfielder has expressed his delight with the fact that the player he believes to be the best in the world sees him as an inspiration for his success
Real Madrid set sights on Villarreal's Borja Valero - report
The midfielder is believed to have caught the attention of the Primera Division table-toppers, who are eager to bring him back to the Santiago Bernabeu
Official: Korean club Ulsan Hyundai announce loan deal for Mallorca's Akihiro Ienaga
The Samurai Blue midfielder becomes one of the highest-profile Japanese players to move to South Korea's top flight, after agreeing a loan spell with the 2011 runners-up
Unai Emery pleased with Valencia's display against Barcelona
The 40-year-old coach says that the Catalan giants deserved to go through and insisted that Roberto Soldado's absence alone does not justify the result
Fabregas warns Barcelona team-mates there is still 'much to do' after Copa del Rey final progression
The Spanish international scored the opening goal in the Catalans' 2-0 win over Valencia but has promised Barca are focused on La Liga and Champions League before the final in May
Radamel Falcao responds to Pinto da Costa's criticism over Atletico Madrid move
The prolific striker believes he made the right choice to move to Atletico and says that a top-four finish in the league is within the club's reach
Juliano Belletti says Neymar has room in Barcelona's squad
The retired defender believes that the Brazilian prodigy would thrive at Camp Nou and that the Catalan club would make him the best player in the game
Valencia's Jordi Alba hints at Barcelona move
The Spanish youngster has hinted that he wishes to prove himself at Camp Nou in the future after failing to do so when he played for the club's youth ranks
Cristiano Ronaldo buys himself a Lamborghini for his birthday - report
The Portugal international turned 27 over the weekend and treated himself to a special edition Aventador LP700-4 worth €340,000 to mark the occasion
Xabi Alonso: Mourinho has said nothing about leaving Real Madrid
The Spain midfielder insisted that los Blancos are currently focused on matters on the field and admitted he is desperate to win both La Liga and the Champions League this season
Ander Herrera wants Copa del Rey final held in Madrid
The Basque midfielder is hoping that the showpiece event will be played at the Santiago Bernabeu, which could cause controversy if Catalan outfit Barcelona are the opposition
