BY DAN KARELL
Roberto Mancini might want to invest some of his club’s money into migraine medicine, after Vincent Kompany’s red card in Manchester City’s 2-0 win over Arsenal on Sunday earned the defender a three-match ban, according to reports.
The Belgian international joins the likes of regular first-team players Sergio Aguero, Micah Richards, Samir Nasri, and the brothers Toure that are unavailable to play for the Citizens.
Mancini declared after the match that he would challenge the decision by referee Mike Dean, though it looks like those efforts may be in vain.
Here are some other stories to get your Monday started:
NEWCASTLE MIDFIELDER BEN ARFA DREAMS OF PSG MOVE
Having already lost forward Demba Ba, Newcastle has once more been rocked by reports from France that talented midfielder Hatem Ben-Arfa may be on his way out as early as this summer.
The 25-year-old Frenchman is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, stated that if there was any interest from PSG he would very seriously consider it, and likely take their offer.
PSG has yet to make an offer for Ben Arfa, though if he can regain his pre-injury form, there likely would be interest from many clubs around the world.
VILLA IS STAYING, SAYS VILANOVA
Returning from New York in time to see his Barcelona side take down Malaga 3-1 on Sunday night, Tito Vilanova made clear that Barca forward David Villa would not be leaving the club in the January transfer window.
Arsenal, as well as others, have been rumored in bring in the 31-year-old Villa on loan until the end of the season, but Vilanova’s words after the match have likely ended any chance of the Spanish international switching clubs.
Villa has had a tough time getting into the Barcelona starting XI recently, despite scoring two goals a week ago in a Copa Del Rey match against Cordoba.
QUICK KICKS
Arsene Wenger hints at Cesc Fabregas return in a few years. (REPORT)
Mexican international forward Carlos Vela scored the game-saving goal for Real Sociadad this weekend. (REPORT)
Italian Football Association (FIGC) president Giancarlo Abete states a need for reform in football. (REPORT)
——————–
What do you think of these reports? Do you think that Kompany’s ban will be overturned or reduced? Do you think Ben Arfa is good enough to start for PSG right now? Do you see David Villa recovering his form and earning his starting place in the second half of the season?
Share your thoughts below.