Arsenal's Robin Van Persie Doubt For Barcelona Clash Following Knee Injury In League Cup Final

Arsenal are sweating over the fitness of Robin van Persie ahead of their Champions League second leg clash with Barcelona, according to the Daily Telegraph.

The 27-year old equalised for Arsene Wenger's side having gone behind to a Nikola Zigic header in the League Cup final loss to Birmingham City on Sunday, but injured himself in the process, picking up a knock to his knee that is now to be rigorously assessed by the club's medical staff.

Boss Arsene Wenger said after the match: "He has a knee problem. Yes [he did it in scoring]."

Van Persie has been in magnificent form since returning from another long term injury and has hit 13 goals in 11 games since the turn of the year.

Despite losing to Alex McLeish's side at Wembley, Arsenal are still chasing the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup, in which they will face Leyton Orient in a replay at the Emirates on Wednesday.

It is likely that the former Feyenoord man was to be rested against Orient anyway and Wenger's primary concern will be having his in-form forward back for the trip to Catalonia, as the Gunners look to make the most of their 2-1 advantage from the first leg.

Listen to the entire interview of Shawn Michaels discusses his induction into this year's WWE Hall Of Fame, his role at Wrestlemania 27 in April and More !

WWE Superstar Shawn Michaels sat down with 1130 AM The Fan in Detroit, Michigan and discussed several topics:

HBK on his induction to the Hall of Fame: "You're honored, you're humbled. It's gonna be weird being the guy standing up there. And I'm trying to decide should I be funny or serious. Obviously I'm very much looking forward to it."

HBK on who is inducting him: "It's hard for me to narrow it down to one guy. I'd love to have Hunter and Nash and Hall and Waltman up there. And then you think about Ric Flair and Brett Hart. And guys I've worked with over the years like Michael Hayes. I have to make the decision pretty soon and I'm not sure I have it narrowed down yet."

HBK on his role at WrestleMania 27: "Well I've heard all the rumors, but right now I'm coming to WrestleMania for one thing and that's the Hall of Fame. I don't think Undertaker and Triple H need Shawn Michaels to put on a great match. They can do that on their own."

HBK on people who still dislike him: "It's very easy to lay a claim against me and having it stick because of my history. And I'm OK with that. I got to make amends with the people that I really wanted to make amends with and I'm OK with the rest."

You can listen to the entire interview CLICK HERE

Rumours about possible transfers: Rooney to be reunited with Ronaldo?

As the end of season approaches, rumours about possible transfers begin to intensify in the Spanish media. Among those possible transfers to and from La Liga, names such as David Silva, Carlos Tévez, Wayne Rooney, Luis Fabiano, Fernando Gago and Bojan Krkic are doing the rounds.

Recent rumours in Madrid have highlighted Atletico Madrid's interest in buying David Silva. In the past few years, the colchoneros have been struggling to find a quality midfielder, one with playmaking skills who is able to catalyze the game of the whole team. Silva is clearly a man to consider in that regard. However, unwillingness from Manchester City to let the Spaniard head back to the Iberian Peninsula seem to make this transfer highly improbable, unless Atletico de Madrid decide to include an important name such as Sergio “Kun” Agüero or Diego Forlán in the operation. Carlos Tévez, also from Manchester City, sounds like a possible future recruit for Mourinho’s Real Madrid, although recent good performances by Emmanuel Adebayor seem to have dampened the rumours about el Apache.

Still speaking about Madrid, we find another important name related to them in rumours: Wayne Rooney. Manchester United’s striker has had several clashes with Sir Alex Ferguson and his time at Man Utd may be coming to an end. If that were the case, Florentino Pérez would certainly consider the possibility of reuniting Cristiano Ronaldo and Rooney, who formed a potent attacking partnership at Old Trafford

Two men belonging to Real Madrid and Barcelona that may be heading away soon are Argentinean midfield Fernando Gago and young Spaniard Bojan Krkic, who have both been limited to a handful of substitute appearances this season and may have to seek more playing time elsewhere. 

Arsenal And Tottenham Readying Summer Offers For Barcelona Starlet Bojan Krkic

Premier League sides Arsenal and Tottenham are preparing summer moves for Barcelona striker Bojan Krkic, according to reports from Spain.

El Mundo Deportivo comments that both London clubs are interested in the 20-year-old, who has been on the periphery of the Blaugrana first team for much of the season.

Bojan recently signed a new contract at the Camp Nou until the summer of 2015, but has managed just three league goals in 19 appearances as he struggles to displace Barca’s first-choice front three of Lionel Messi, David Villa and Pedro.

The arrival of Ibrahim Afellay has edged the Spaniard further down the pecking order, and while the player himself believes he can still be a success for the champions, he has refused to close the door on a move elsewhere.

In a recent interview with Barca TV, Bojan admitted: "I like the Premier League a lot," alerting both Gunners boss Arsene Wenger and Spurs’ Harry Redknapp to his potential availability.

Chelsea, along with Serie A sides Juventus and Napoli, have also been linked with a possible move, but it is unclear whether the Catalan giants would entertain any approach for a player who is still held in high regard by coach Pep Guardiola.

Is Triple H vs Undertaker The Real Wrestlemania Main Event?

This past Monday on Raw, the 2/21/11 countdown came and it went exactly as almost everyone expected with The Undertaker making his return. However, before he could do anything there was another man who made his presence felt - Triple H.
The two men had a stare down in the ring, and then Triple H looked at the Wrestlemania sign. Undertaker looked at it and gave a smirk, but began to walk away. When the crowd booed this, he stopped turned around and made his throat slashing gesture.
For those that follow the inner workings of the WWE, we have known for a while that a Triple H-Undertaker match was going to take place at Wrestlemania XXVII, and that it will likely be a streak vs career match, a la Undertaker-Shawn Michaels last year.

Let's look at the other choice for the main event: The WWE Championship match between The Miz and John Cena. This might get the main event spot because John Cena is in the match, and it's almost a given that The Rock is going to be involved in this match somehow.The problem is, at least right now, this is not a hot feud. They completely screwed things up at the end of Raw with that tag title match. To be fair, they still have five weeks to build that match, but right now Cena vs Rock is a much, much, much bigger deal and that's not going to happen.

The Undertaker-Triple H match will feature two of the most popular wrestlers in WWE history making their return to the ring after a lot of time off. It will be the "end" of the career for Triple H, because we all know that Taker is never losing at Wrestlemania, nor should he.

 Plus, the biggest cherry on top of this match will be Shawn Michaels will return as the guest referee. That adds another level of drama to the match that nothing else on the card can compete with. You have the story of HBK being a referee in a match with Triple H, his best friend, against Undertaker, the man who ended his career at Wrestlemania XXVI.

When you look at the stories involved with these two matches, it's only appropriate that Taker-Triple H goes on last because it's got the most juice to the story.
Unless Rock becomes a big part of the Cena-Miz match and screws Cena out of the title, which is unlikely to happen but after Cena's promo Monday never say never, this match just doesn't have that special Wrestlemania feel to it.

Your WrestleMania 27 Main Event ?
The Undertaker vs Triple H /Shawn Michaels to be involved.
The Miz vs John Cena /The Rock to be involved.

I See Sergio Aguero Joining Real Madrid - Diego Maradona

Diego Maradona has stated his belief that son-in-law Sergio Aguero will eventually join Real Madrid.
Former Argentina coach Diego Maradona has discussed his belief that his son-in-law, Atletico Madrid forward Sergio Aguero, will eventually sign for city rivals Real Madrid at some point in his career.

The Albiceleste legend assessed the future of the 22-year-old in an interview with Spanish publication Marca, during which he also compared the managerial styles of Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola.

Maradona stated that he "saw Aguero at [Real] Madrid", as speculation intensifies that the player could be set to make a summer move to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Continuing to the subject of who he feels to be the better coach between Mourinho and Guardiola, he insisted that the Portuguese would always be his first choice, saying: “If I were a president, I would hire Mourinho first, certainly because of his experience.
“I believe however that Pep is a guy who has been touched by a magic wand, make no mistake that he is a hard worker. If Mourinho had the time that Guardiola has had [in Spanish football], things might be more equal.”

Finally, Maradona also had words of high praise for Los Blancos defender Marcelo.

“Removing [Lionel] Messi and Cristiano [Ronaldo], Marcelo is the best player in the league right now.”

Atletico Madrid Are Not Bankrupt - Financial Vice-President Fernando Garcia Abasolo

Fernando Garcia Abasolo, financial vice-president of Atletico Madrid, has taken moves to stress that the club is not bankrupt, but added that their current debt levels are unsustainable.

Los Colchoneros reportedly owe creditors in the region of €250-300 million, and Abasolo released a statement yesterday explaining that while the club are not in danger of dropping into administration, there is no leeway available to increase that figure.

He remarked: “The club is not bankrupt, but the club no longer has the room to increase the debt because it could reach a situation where there is a lack of liquidity, and that could lead to bankruptcy.

“The situation is open and notorious, and I have disagreement with some aspects of club management in relation to the structure of premier sports policy. There are consequences to the team if the economic resources are not provided.

“Therefore, this leads to less income and the immediate consequence of the alarming increase in borrowing, which is some €250-300m. It is time for change at Atletico Madrid, and all who love this club should provide constructive ideas and solutions, because we are staking them against the future.”

Atleti are currently 13 points behind Villarreal, who occupy the last Champions League qualification position in the Primera Division.

Trish To Wrestle At WM27? Next HOF Inductee,

At Sunday’s Elimination Chamber pay-per-view, Trish Stratus made a surprise return to WWE, where it was announced she’ll be joining Booker T as one of the trainers on the new season of Tough Enough. Later in the show, Trish came to the aid of Kelly Kelly, who was getting beat down by LayCool.

With Trish back in the mix and aligning herself with Kelly Kelly, there is talk that Trish and Kelly will team up to wrestle LayCool at WrestleMania 27.

- Speaking of Trish, she wrote the following on Twitter last night about her WWE return:

“OMG I’m trending! Everyone must want to find out what not to wear when u kick ass. I had so much fun delivering Stratusfaction-I missed all of u guys! Can’t tell u how much ur support means to me!!”

- Another name for the 2011 WWE Hall of Fame is expected to be announced on tonight’s RAW. Tammy “Sunny” Sytch, The Road Warriors, Abdullah The Butcher, Lex Luger and Arn Anderson are all names that have been discussed for this year’s class.

- The fourth coach for WWE’s new Tough Enough season is expected to be Bill DeMott, best known as Hugh Morris in WCW. DeMott was a trainer on Season 3 of Tough Enough and has been in touch with WWE officials in recent weeks.

Atletico Madrid ready for shock summer swoop for Manchester City's 'homesick' David Silva

Atletico Madrid have reportedly set their sights on a summer bid for Manchester City midfielder David Silva, who is "homesick" according to the Daily Mail.
City paid £24 million for the services of Silva from Valencia last summer and Silva has gone on to make 30 appearances for the Sky Blues, frequently impressing on his debut season in England.

The Spaniard has also bagged three goals including a spectacular effort against Blackpool in a crucial win 3-2 win at Bloomfield Road as well as City's only goal against Manchester United last weekend in the Manchester derby.

Yet despite this the report claims that the Spanish international has failed to adapt to life in England and has a particular problem with the weather with Manchester being substantially colder than his native Gran Canaria.

Indeed the Daily Mail claims that Silva did not want to move away from Spain and that Atletico are now preparing to rescue the Spanish international from Eastlands after discussing a move with the player’s agent.

The Primera Division side are believed to be willing to offer City the same amount they paid for the Spaniard but if this is rejected are also prepared to add a couple of players in part exchange to sweeten the deal.

Messi admits Barcelona feeling pressure from Real Madrid

Barcelona star Lionel Messi admits they feel Real Madrid breathing down their neck.

Messi popped up for a late winner against Athletic Bilbao last night to maintain Barca's five point lead.

"We could not afford another setback because Real Madrid are very close and we must keep our distance," said Messi.

"It is becoming increasingly difficult because there are many games and we're now in the most complicated part of the season.

"The victory is a joy for us and for the people."

Top Latin American Footballers: 2011

Uruguayan Footballers
Diego Forlán

Forlán won the Golden Ball at the 2010 World Cup for his impassioned and game-winning play for the Uruguayan national team. He finished the tournament with give goals scored and nearly helped his team win third place when he sent a free kick rattling off the cross bar in a crushing 3-2 loss to Germany.

At club level, the prolific striker has scored 73 goals in 119 games for Atlético Madrid since 2007. Forlán found the back of the net 62 times between 2001 and 2004 and has won the European Golden Shoe twice.

Luis Suárez

Uruguayan forward Luis Suárez recently became a new Premier League It Boy after a costly and high profile transfer from Ajax to Liverpool. Though how well he will perform in the EPL remains to be seen, Suárez 49 goals in 48 appearances in 2009-10.

During the 2010-11 World Cup Suárez was instrumental in helping his team reach the semi finals by blocking a Ghanaian goal with his hand. Striker Asamoah Gyan missed a penalty shot for Ghana and Uruguay wont the shoot out that ended the game.

Argentine Footballers 
Leo Messi

It’s hard to know what to write about Lionel Messi. The fact that he has notched 40 goals and 20 assists in 35 games this season for Barcelona? The fact that the entire Argentine national team has been rearranged to accommodate his playing style? The fact that he has won over 50 personal honors, from the Ballon d'Or to La Liga Player of the Year, and is only 23 years old?

Or maybe we should stress the fact that his surname comprises the five letters of Messiah, which he certainly is to the footballing world, and to Barca fans in particular. He is an otherwordly player, one of top five in football in 2011. He may even prove to be every bit as good as fellow Argentine Diego Maradona.

Carlos Tevez 

Carlos Tevez doesn’t quite have the numbers that Messi does, but he plays with an even more ferocious spark that his countryman. The two of them linked up on the national team in a 2010 World Cup match against Mexico, during which Tevez scored a brace with an assist from Messi.

As of this writing, Tevez has 18 goals and 5 assists in league play, the highest combined total of any player in the league (United’s Portuguese phenomenon Nani is nipping at his heels with nine goals and 13 assists).

Though Tevez doesn’t display the same prodigious touch as Messi does day in and day out, he is far more instrumental to the success of his team than is Leo. Without Tevez, City would surely be far further down the table than where it currently sits, in third place.

Brazilian Footballers 
kaka 

Before the Messi/Ronaldo polemic, as Diego Maradona would be wont to call it, Kaká was considered by many to be the best footballer in the world. The Brazilian dynamo displayed the creativity of Zinedine Zidane and the smooth, beautiful play of classic Brazilian footballers.

Unfortunately, the rise of Messi and Ronaldo has coincided with injury for Kaká, resulting in the drastic devaluation of his stock. Still, he displayed shades of brilliance in the 2010 World Cup and at club level with Real Madrid during the 2010-11 season.

And nothing can take away the 31 personal honors Kaká has received in his career.

Real Zaragoza 0-1 Atletico Madrid: Sergio Aguero winner ends visitors' four-game losing streak

Sergio Aguero lifted Atletico Madrid from their recent slump by scoring the only goal of a gripping game which leaves Real Zaragoza in serious trouble near the relegation zone.

A sumptuously weighed pass split the Zaragoza defence early on leaving Sergio Aguero to complete the simple task of scoring although a heavy first touch allowed Franco enough time to block the tame chip.

The first chance of note for Zaragoza came in the ninth minute but Sinama-Pongolle acrobatically volleyed over the bar causing no real danger. The relentless Atleti attack resumed shortly as Aguero once more threatened.

The Argentine's long run resulted in an effort tipped around the post by the alert Franco. Reyes was running the Zaragoza defence ragged and Obradovic was lucky to escape without a caution after a petulant stamp on the winger’s calf.

The game then burst into life as Reyes charged into the box and was felled in controversial circumstances. The referee decided against awarding the contentious penalty in front of a vociferous home crowd.

The Atletico of old seemed to be coming back as a delightful chip from Aguero was ruled out for offside. De Gea was woken from his slumber soon after as in the 30th minute Gabi galloped from midfield and smashed a shot with the outside of his boot that just curled away from goal at the crucial moment for the best attempt of the game so far.
Diego Forlan, who was being kept quiet throughout the first half by the impressive Ponzio, threatened with a first-time shot that rose over the bar. Braulio headed wide as some pressure from Zaragoza allowed the opportunity to be carved open.

An Atleti response almost culminated in a goal as a scramble after a Franco save nearly let Aguero to open the scoring, but the shot was deflected behind. The resulting corner just missed the little Argentine as he proved to be their most dangerous attacking outlet.

The second half followed the the opening few minutes of the first as opportunities for both teams resulted in more chances at goal. De Gea got down low to stop a drive from Braulio as he made the most from limited supply before a scorching shot from Reyes was inches away from gaining the lead after a selfless lay-off from the lively Aguero.

The game once more dipped in quality momentarily before a minute of madness. A swift counter-attack led by Forlan ended in Aguero blasting past Franco for a deserved winner in the 66th minute. This was on the back of Zaragoza contriving to miss several gilt-edged opportunities as Atletico went missing for a corner.

Immediately after the restart, Aguero could have doubled their advantage but hesitancy in front of goal cost him this glorious chance. Franco, who was single-handedly keeping his team in the game, then saved a wonderful volley from Raul Garcia as he resisted to concede once more.

Zaragoza were by no means out of the encounter as late on they struck the bar through Uche as he nearly punished the visitors for resting on their laurels. Fortune was clearly on De Gea’s side, however, as his bar was hammered once more as the desperately unlucky Bertolo hit the woodwork, this time after some fine individual play.

Atletico desperately held on for the win to move them up into seventh place, at least until Sunday's round of games.

Calciomercato Napoli: la Champions porta Forlan

CALCIOMERCATO NAPOLI, 16 febbraio 2011 – Con il Napoli in piena lotta scudetto, De Laurentiis ha deciso di fare un regalo a tutti i tifosi per continuare a sognare in grande: si tratta dell’attaccante uruguaiano Diego Forlan che con Lavezzi e Cavani formerebbe uno dei migliori tridenti d’Europa.

L’idea, ventilata già da settimane ed avvallata anche dallo stesso Cavani nel corso di alcune interviste, nasce dalla voglia del presidente di far fare quel definitivo salto di qualità alla squadre e poter ambire a qualcosa di veramente importante già dall’anno prossimo.
Infatti in caso di qualificazione alla Champions, Forlan sbarcherà in Campania: obiettivo dichiarato per la prossima stagione sarà quindi lo scudetto!

We Must Keep Working To Back Coach Quique Sanchez Flores - Atletico Madrid Defender Antonio Lopez

Atletico Madrid defender Antonio Lopez had stressed that the players are refusing to consider the notion that coach Quique Sanchez Flores could leave at the end of the season.

A run of one win in seven matches has left Sanchez Flores’ future hanging in the balance, with Rafa Benitez being tenuously linked to the post at the end of the season.

Speaking to the media today, the full-back said that the team must concentrate on winning matches in order to show backing for the coaching staff.

He remarked: “We feel we have to win, we do not value the option of the coach not being with us, because he has given us two titles and although we have not done well, we have overcome adversity. Now we need to be closer together than ever.

“We are all going in the same direction, the coaching staff and players are heading in the same direction, and we are doing all we can to take this forward.

“The team's image has not been all bad, but there is no use complaining and all we can do is to keep working to pull this off. To get around this, work, work, work, is what we need to be doing."

The 5 Best WWE Rivalries Ever

5. The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin

 The two biggest WWE superstars of the attitude era, these two men carried the WWE to victory over the WCW.

This feud began with The Rock stealing Austin's Intercontinental title belt, but he was unable to win it off Austin at DX: In Your House, in 1997.

The feud began again in earnest in 1999, when The Rock beat Mankind for the WWE title. They fought at pay per view after pay per view, and it never got tired. The two ended the attitude era at Wrestlemania, a match that had possibly the greatest build up of all time.

4. Stone Cold vs. Bret Hart

 Birthing his catchphrase "Austin 3:16" after his big win at King of the Ring 1996, Stone Cold Steve Austin set his sights on the biggest target in the WWE at the time: Bret Hart.

This rivalry ushered in the attitude era, turned Bret Hart heel for the first time, established Stone Cold not only as a main event player but as a hard SOB. The image of Austin, covered in blood, refusing to tap to the sharpshooter will forever be ingrained in the minds of wrestling fans.

This feud went over a Wrestlemania, a Royal Rumble and into the annals of wrestling history.

3. Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker

This is The most historic rivalry,  it ended the career of the greatest superstar to ever step foot in a WWE ring, so it deserves to be in Top 3.

The two had a match at Wrestlemania 25, with The Undertaker looking younger than he has in years against Michaels.

Almost a year after, Michaels interfered, costing the Undertaker the World Heavyweight Championship, at Elimination Chamber. This led to a career vs. streak match at Wrestlemania 26. It was yet another match of the year and led to the retirement of Michaels.


2. Austin vs. McMahon

Everyone wants to give their boss the finger and kick them in the gut at some point. That is exactly what 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin did to Vincent K. McMahon.

The Austin/McMahon rivalry made both of their characters the extreme successes they both were. It established Austin as the ultimate anti-authoritarian and McMahon as the ultimate authority in the wrestling world.

The culmination of this rivalry was a cage match, in which McMahon was driven through a table, showing he was willing to put his body on the line. The other thing this rivalry did was make the Stone Cold Stunner the most used finisher by a professional wrestler, ever. He gave them out like cookies at a blood van.

1. Bret Hart vs. Shawn Michaels

Was there ever any doubt? A mix of real life and kayfabe, the feud between Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels may have been the most venomous in the entire wrestling business.

Neither of these guys wanted to lose to the other and Bret Hart refused to drop the belt to Michaels as he was going to WCW, which led to one of the most infamous moments in wrestling history: the Montreal Screwjob.

After this, Michaels had said Hart and Sunny were having an affair and Hart had been outspoken on his opinion on the arrogant and flashy Michaels.

They finally publicly made up, when Hart returned to the WWE as Michaels was nearing

Greatest Striker in football histor

Players and managers have come out to laud praise on Brazilian striker Ronaldo who announced his retirement from the game.

Inter Milan president, Massimo Moratti was the first to praise the Brazilian legend who spent five years with the Nerazzurris from 1997 to 2002.

Speaking to inter.it, the Inter head honcho said:"I'm sorry he will stop playing,

"Ronaldo is the greatest striker in history. There is affection and esteem for him. There was the pleasure of those who saw him play in our shirt during a special year. For us it was a privilege. I wish him well in the future."

Even some of the best footballers on planet earth at the moment have made known their admiration for the great Ronaldo on twitter.

Here are some of the twitter statements made by players.

Cesc Fabregas - Arsenal and Spain

"Very sad day for football. Brazilian legend Ronaldo retires from football. Ill always remember the 96/97 season... Best player i ever seen.. "

Giuseppe Rossi - Villarreal and Italy

"Ronaldo is retiring from futbol. One of the best strikers to ever play the game. He will be missed"

Rio Ferdinand - Manchester United and England

"RONALDO has retired from football...1 of best to ever play the game - injuries prevented him being best ever. gonna have a minutes silence.."

Andres Iniesta - Barcelona and Spain

"Today he said goodbye to football. Thanks Ronaldo for all these years, we've really enjoyed them all!"

Finally The Rock Is Back at WM 27

Zaira Nara y Diego Forlán para siempre

Ronaldo calls time on glittering career

Former Brazil striker Ronaldo announced his retirement today but, he tells UEFA.com, he has left an "important legacy" – his only regret being a failure to savour UEFA Champions League glory.

The 34-year-old decided to call time on a glittering career 12 months earlier than planned in the wake of SC Corinthians' shock Copa Libertadores exit at the start of the month against Colombian side CD Tolima. He confirmed to a press conference: "As you can imagine and you heard during the whole weekend, I'm here today to [confirm that] I'm ending my career as a professional player."

In a newspaper interview, he had explained: "I can't take it any more. I wanted to carry on, but I can't. I plan a move [in a game] but I cannot execute it. My time is up, but dammit it was nice." He departs the scene as one of the best players of the past quarter of a century. Three times FIFA World Player of the Year – a distinction he shares with former Real Madrid CF team-mate Zinédine Zidane – Ronaldo is the highest scorer in FIFA World Cup finals history with 15, two of them coming in Brazil's 2-0 final victory over Germany in 2002.

For over a decade his star shone bright on the European stage: he hit 273 goals in 402 games for PSV Eindhoven, FC Barcelona, FC Internazionale Milano, Real Madrid and AC Milan. He claimed honours at all bar Milan, including the 1997 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup with Barcelona. The following season, he starred in Inter's UEFA Cup triumph. The UEFA Champions League Trophy always eluded him, however. "Football has given me many things," he told UEFA.com. "But I live football with a passion which doesn't let me have peace for not winning the Champions League – it's surely a trophy everyone would like to win."

One of his finest hours came in Europe's premier club competition, though. In April 2003 Madrid arrived at Old Trafford 3-1 up after the first leg of their quarter-final against Manchester United FC. Home manager Sir Alex Ferguson admitted the key to turning it around was keeping Ronaldo quiet but, in the event, "we simply couldn't do it".

When he walked off to a standing ovation midway through the second half Ronaldo had dashed United dreams with a superb hat-trick. He could not find a way past Juventus in what would prove his only appearance in the last four, however, with a 4-3 aggregate defeat ending the Merengues' ambitions.

Always prolific – Ronaldo struck 62 goals in 97 international appearances – he was hampered by injuries at Milan and also after returning to Brazil in 2008, leading to today's announcement. "I think I have left an important legacy in football but the time has come," he said. "I would say to a kid just starting out that football is not only about joy: you have to dedicate yourself to the game with military discipline. When children first dream about football, with all the magic you see on television, it's not like that. You have to fight and struggle, make a name for yourself and create your own history." Ronaldo certainly did.

Clay Matthews - next WWE Superstar?

GREEN BAY, Wis. - Clay Matthews is sitting on top of the world. First, Matthews had an incredible forced fumble which changed the landscape of Super Bowl XLV in Dallas, helping lead the Packers to their fourth Super Bowl. But could the Pro-Bowler find himself kicking off his cleats and lacing up a pair of boots inside the squared circle? The third-generation NFL player tells WWE.com he won’t rule anything out.

“I’ve been a fan since I was a kid. Watching these guys growing up and then meeting some of them – it was like a childhood dream,” Matthews said. “I was a big D-Generation X fan with Triple H and HBK.”

The stop at SmackDown was the culmination of whirlwind week starting off with the Super Bowl win, and then a huge celebration at Lambeau Field in front of the Packer faithful. And one picture – of Super Bowl MVP Aaron Rodgers wearing a World Heavyweight Championship Matthews had draped over his quarterback’s shoulder – had become a global sensation.

“The league [NFL] office really didn't like it. But we didn't care, because we were having fun. It was fitting because we were world champions. That was his celebratory dance to let everyone know he had the title,” Matthews explained of Rodgers’ on-field celebration during the playoffs. “It’s only right, bringing it out and letting everyone know who the real champs are. The Packer fans and the WWE Universe enjoyed it!”

On Friday Night SmackDown, Matthews continued to show his allegiance to the WWE Universe, making the save as a second Special Guest Referee in a match pitting Dolph Ziggler against World Heavyweight Champion Edge.

As a self-named Special Guest Referee Vickie Guerrero went to spear Edge, she injured her ankle. That’s when Matthews saw an opportunity.

“She [Guerrero] wasn’t playing fair at all. I needed to even the score a little bit and take this one home for Edge! Glad I could help out.”

And although Matthews wouldn’t divulge who gave him the authority to be a WWE Official, the WWE Universe is left to wonder if Edge is still the World Heavyweight Champion and if Matthews’ power as a WWE Official ultimately supersedes that of an angry “acting” SmackDown General Manager in Vickie Guerrero.

But for now, Matthews is living out his dreams, from Lambeau Field to inside the Resch Center with the WWE Universe. Could the Superstar bug have bitten him?

“I’ve got the long hair and some muscles,” Matthews told WWE.com. “All I need is the right training and I’ve got this thing wrapped up.”

Atletico Madrid Striker Sergio Aguero & Palermo Ace Javier Pastore In Juventus' Sight - Report

Juventus are being linked with ambitious moves for Atletico Madrid hitman Sergio Aguero, and Palermo playmaker Javier Pastore.

La Gazetta dello Sport, and Sportmediaset.it are reporting the Bianconeri directorate will have around €80 million to spend on transfers.

And Giuseppe Marotta is eager to bolster the squad in light of possible Champions League football.

Aguero, who Atletico have denied as being for sale, is said to be a priority target.

But, aside from resistance from the Spanish club, Juve face competition from Tottenham and Chelsea who have long been linked with him.

Second on the list is Pastore. He continues to attract big interest from several clubs and recently claimed he would prefer Juventus over Real Madrid and Barcelona.

The 21-year-old continues to impress, though Maurizio Zamparini recently claimed it would take a €100m bid to sell him.

Atletico Madrid Stopper David De Gea Passed Fit For Clash With Valencia

Atletico Madrid keeper David de Gea has been passed fit to take his place in goal in tomorrow’s meeting with Valencia at the Vicente Calderon.

The 20-year-old had been struggling with a muscle injury suffered while on international duty for Spain’s under-21’s in midweek, but has been deemed fit enough to be included in Quique Sanchez Flores’ squad for the match.

A surprising exclusion however is Brazilian midfielder Elias, who has been on international duty this week but trained as normal this morning, however has been left out of the final 18.

Midfielder Mario Suarez has recovered to return to the fold after being missing for the last few weeks through injury.

The squad list in full:

Goalkeepers: De Gea, Joel

Defenders: Valera, Antonio Lopez, Forlan, Godín, Dominguez, Perea

Midfielders: Mario Suárez, Raúl García, Fran Merida, Assuncao, Reyes, Juanfran, Koke, Tiago

Strikers: Agüero, Forlan, Diego Costa.

Chelsea Striker Fernando Torres: I Would Love To End My Career At Atletico Madrid

Chelsea striker Fernando Torres has admitted that he would love to end his playing career back at first club and boyhood heroes Atletico Madrid.

The 27-year-old spoke to radio show El Larguero ahead of Spain’s friendly versus Colombia this evening at the Santiago Bernabeu, and admitted that once he has completed his five-year contract at Stamford Bridge, he covets a move back to Los Colchoneros.

He stated: “There is still a lot of time but this is the idea I have always had. I talked to [CEO] Miguel Angel Gil [Marin] and I know that while he is there, I will always have doors open to me at this club.

“I owe a lot to Atletico, who will always be my team. I have always been close with the Gil family.”

Torres moved to Liverpool from Atleti in the summer of 2007 for a fee of €30 million, and put pen to paper on a switch to Chelsea on deadline day of the January transfer window for €58m, making him the most expensive Spaniard in history.

Shawn Michaels Announces Overseas Tour in 2011

Shawn Michaels is headed overseas in October for the 1PW promotion, the same group that regularly features former WWE stars and has Kevin Nash and Sean Waltman booked this year.

Shawn will participate in a black tie dinner in the UK on October 7th, appear at the 1PW show on October 8th and appear at a 1PW UK convention on October 9th.

From October 12th until the 15th, Shawn will be appearing in Dubai for various appearances.

Shawn is promising more details to be announced on his trip overseas soon.

Justin Bieber to perform at WWE WrestleMania 27

In the latest WWE WrestleMania news, Justin Bieber's representatives are in negotiations with the WWE over performing at WrestleMania 27 on April 3rd. According to a Tuesday report by GlamorousOnes.com, Bieber's management have been in negotiations with the WWE for the last several months. A deal could potentially be completed sooner rather than later.

"Justin Bieber's peeps are in talks with World Wrestling Entertainment to participate in WWE's biggest event of the year Wrestlemania XXVII. Sources say that talks have been ongoing for several months but a deal may be reached soon. We're told that he would be performing at the event."

I've already received mixed reaction from WWE fans over this announcement. Most hardcore fans do not want to see Bieber at WrestleMania. But, since the WWE has really focused on becoming a PG rated company, Bieber would fit in perfectly with their younger crowd. Love him or hate him, Justin Bieber is extremely popular and an appearance with the WWE would be a boost to the pro-wrestling company in the mainstream media.

2011 WWE Rumors - Sting vs Undertaker at Wrestlemania 27?

Recent WWE rumors in 2011 are speculating that a Sting vs Undertaker match will take place at Wrestlemania 27. The only problem with the idea is that WWE has not signed Sting yet, so for now it remains a major dream match to most pro wrestling fans.

These latest Sting to WWE rumors have received increased attention after last week's Raw and the cryptic "2/21/11" promo video. The video didn't reveal who it was about, but showed a figure wearing boots and a long dark trenchcoat. That would seem to be the look of The Undertaker, but could also be Sting.

A recent report from NY Daily News claimed WWE had wrapped up a deal with Sting, but other wrestling sources are saying this doesn't appear true. Still, it's very likely that Vince McMahon is waving as much money as he possibly can in the painted face of the Stinger.

Sting has never set foot in a WWE wrestling ring, but most fans would love to see it. The way the rumors are going right now, he would sign with WWE to possibly wrestle one of his last matches in pro wrestling for Vince McMahon's company. He would also be an induction into WWE Hall of Fame since he was a part of the WCW company which Vince bought up years ago.

The early Wrestlemania 27 rumors have Undertaker going up against Smackdown "Corre" leader Wade Barrett. It would make sense based on the fact Barrett's former Nexus crew was responsible for helping bury Undertaker in his "Buried Alive" match against Kane. However, fans would probably flock to see the Wrestlemania 27 Pay-Per-View extremely fast if they saw a marquee matchup of "Sting vs The Streak."

A few pro wrestling fans in the Roanoke area gave their thoughts on this. John Conners is positive on the news saying, "yes I do think WWE will be able to sign Sting. And Sting vs Streak would be amazing." Charles Price said, "It will be interesting to see him (Sting) hopefully go up against HHH or eve HBK one more time at Wrestlemania...or even against Taker for his last match."

HBK is scheduled to be inducted into this year's WWE Hall of Fame class and has vowed never to wrestle again, keeping his promise to The Undertaker and wrestling fans. That's because HBK, Shawn Michaels, lost to Undertaker in a "Career vs The Streak" match at Wrestlemania 26. Wouldn't it be interesting if Sting was potentially going to end that legendary "streak" at Mania?

Do you think Sting will sign with WWE? Is Sting in the 2/21/11 video promo being shown by WWE, or is that Undertaker?

When will HHH make his WWE return

There have been numerous rumors over the last several months as to when HHH will return to WWE television. Many, including myself, thought HHH was a "lock" for showing up at the Royal Rumble a few days ago. When he didn't, it caused many WWE fans to wonder if HHH will return at all. Fortunately, for HHH fans, all signs still point to his in-ring return. On Wednesday, WrestleZone reported that HHH was tentatively scheduled for a live event on March 28th. This dates coincides with the last WWE RAW before WrestleMania 27.

The biggest WrestleMania rumor is that HHH will wrestle Sheamus at WWE's "Super Bowl". If this is to happen, HHH would need to show up sometime after the Elimination Chamber PPV later this month to build up a proper storyline as to why he will wrestle Sheamus.

You can also expect to see him as part of the HOF ceremonies on WrestleMania weekend as he will most likely be the one inducting Shawn Michaels into the WWE HOF. Now, I'm not the biggest HHH fan out there. But, he is a huge star in the WWE and with their current "youth movement" in full swing, the WWE can use a big name to give the product a boost.

As for a match with Sheamus, unless they give Sheamus the victory then I don't see the point. The "fella" has been relegated to a mid-card role after twice holding the championship. A loss to HHH would further bury him. But would HHH come back just to "put over" Sheamus?

What do you readers think?

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The Undertaker Returns 2011 - Is Taker Coming to WWE Raw on 2/21/11 Holiday?

After WWE aired some mysterious and ominous promo videos on the most recent episode of Monday Night Raw, fans are speculating if The Undertaker returns in 2011. If the video is in fact about Taker, it appears he will return to WWE Raw on the 2/21/11 holiday, which is also one night after the big Elimination Chamber Pay-Per-View.

The video, seen on the 01/31/11 episode of Raw, doesn't actually say the Undertaker is in it, but it seems reasonable to assume. The clip shows a dark and stormy scene with a dark figure walking. The lower half of the individual is seen as he's walking complete with a long dark trench coat and boots. The promotional video leaves off with only "2/21/11" on the screen giving an indication of when some major event will happen. February 21, 2011 marks the observed President's Day holiday. Seems like an interesting time and place for Taker to show up. Undertaker is a Smackdown superstar, but Raw tends to draw more viewers than Smackdown on USA each week.

The early word is that The Undertaker would battle The Corre leader Wade Barrett in his latest match at Wrestlemania 27. This would seem rather bizarre considering that he was buried by Kane. However, Nexus, originally under Barrett's leadership, was responsible for helping Kane bury Undertaker in the Pay-Per-View match. So the storyline would make sense, even though fans might enjoy seeing Undertaker extract revenge on his younger brother.

Roanoke pro wrestling fan, Tony Scott, said, "Taker coming back would be great, but they do things like that to set up new talent coming in, sort of build them up before they arrive. Wade Barrett would be an excellent apponent."

What do you think about this mysterious promo for 2/21/11? Does this mean The Undertaker is making his return to WWE? Also, is Wade Barrett the best opponent for him at Wrestlemania 27?

Winning At Barcelona Is Not Impossible - Atletico Madrid Coach Quique Sanchez Flores

Atletico Madrid coach Quique Sanchez Flores has stressed that it is not impossible for his team to leave the Camp Nou with three points on Saturday evening.

Los Colchoneros have conceded 14 goals in their last three visits to Catalunya, and face a Barcelona side looking to break the Primera Division record for consecutive victories.

However, speaking to the media today, Sanchez Flores said he feels that while it will be hugely difficult for his team to emerge victorious, there remains a chance of success.

He stated: “We play a landmark world rival, winning is difficult but not impossible. Barcelona are close to perfection and are artists. We have made things difficult for them before, and can do so again.

“They have very few weaknesses. If the team can maintain maximum concentration from the beginning, we can put things right, and if not, it will be very difficult. We beat them last season, but this is a team with three Ballon d’Or nominees.”

Sanchez Flores also accepted that the team are struggling through a difficult period at the moment, adding: “We have accepted the crisis, our minds are ready we have endured the pain of the situation. There is a different mentality now.”
Well thats all What Mr.Flores Think But Not Mr.Hbk Mano . Cuz Hbk Mano Believes that Barca are Still Afraid of The Strike of ''The Hit Man'' Diego Forlan...   Diego Forlan VS Leo Messi ... Give mea Hell Yeah

Kansas Fan Reminds Us All That Erin Andrews Is Hot (Video)

As if we already didn’t know, this Kansas fan was kind enough to remind us all that ESPN sideline reporter Erin Andrews is quite the fox. Thanks Tips! Perhaps next time he will be kind enough to remind us all that the sky is blue.

The unexpected 10 seconds of face time on national television can be quite the awkward moment for any fan, as it is often difficult to figure out exactly how one can make the most of their moment in the spotlight. After all, not everyone was blessed with the ability to dance like Michael Jackson.
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