Top Stories

Wednesday Kickoff: Barca expects Neymar deal; Mourinho denies Costa issues; and more

neymar

Despite all of the issues that have arisen, Barcelona remains confident that the club can secure Neymar’s future for years to come.

Barcelona technical secretary Robert Fernandez says that Neymar will sign a long-term contract to remain with the club. Fernandez’s declaration comes on the heels of several statements from the player’s father stating that Neymar could seek a move if his ongoing tax issues aren’t resolved.

“There will be an agreement with Neymar,” Robert told TV3.”I have no doubt about it – he will be at Barcelona for many years. When one starts with the intention to renew, we all know that we can reach an agreement.

“We are all in agreement that Neymar will stay here at Barcelona. The player has expressed it publicly, his camp too. Neymar is content and happy at Barcelona and that is the most important thing for us.  We must face the situation calmly, thinking that if we have now finalized Rafinha’s renewal, an agreement for Neymar’s renewal will also be reached.”

Here are some more news and notes to kick off your Wednesday morning:

MOURINHO PLAYS DOWN COSTA INCIDENT

Jose Mourinho and Diego Costa had a heated exchange during Wednesday’s clash with Maccabi Tel Aviv, but the Chelsea manager insists that it was smooth sailing from that point forward.

Entering halftime, Mourinho and Costa were seen having an angry exchange in the tunnel, as Mourinho was reportedly frustrated with the forward’s lack of movement.

“I reacted. He did too,” Mourinho said at a news conference. “At halftime in the dressing room, a few kisses and a few cuddles. No problem.”

Chelsea went on to win, 4-0, on goals from Gary Cahill, Willian, Oscar and Kurt Zouma.

ARSENAL’S COQUELIN SET TO MISS 12 WEEKS

Throughout the past year or so, Francis Coquelin has emerged as the key stopper in the Arsenal midfield, but the Frenchman is now set for a long-term spell on the sidelines.

The 24-year-old midfielder suffered a knee injury in Arsenal’s 2-1 loss at West Brom on Saturday, one that manager Arsene Wenger says will keep him out for up to 12 weeks.

“It is what we feared basically,” Wenger told reporters after Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Dynamo Zagreb. “It means it will be, let’s be realistic — a medial knee ligament — 12 weeks.”

QUICK KICKS

Midfielder Ever Banega is in talks with Sevilla over extending his contract with the club despite interest from the Premier League. (REPORT)

Mustafa Denizli has been named manager of Galatasaray after 20 years away from the club. (REPORT)

Lyon’s exit from the Champions League jeopardizes future tournament berths for Ligue 1. (REPORT)

Dynamo Kiev will play their next three European home games behind closed doors following racist behavior and crowd disturbances. (REPORT)

What do you expect from Neymar in the coming years? Still concerned with the mood at Chelsea? How will Arsenal replace Coquelin?

Share your thoughts below.

 

Leave a Comment