By DAN KARELL
Poland and Borussia Dortmund forward Robert Lewandowski has called all the speculation that he’s heading to Bayern Munich a “misunderstanding.”
Speaking to reporters in London ahead of Poland’s World Cup qualifier against England, Lewandowski renewed discussion over his future by declaring that he’d even be interested in a move to England.
“I will be able to sign a contract [with any club] in January, but I have never said that I will sign a contract with Bayern,” Lewandowski told the Telegraph. “It was a misunderstanding. It is true I had an opportunity to speak with Sir Alex Ferguson [last year], but we didn’t mention the transfer.
“One day I would like to play in Premier League. It would be a great experience.”
Last month, Lewandowski seemed to admit that he was going to sign a pre-contract agreement with Bayern Munich in January, six months before his current deal runs out. The 25-year-old Borussia star has scored six times in eight Bundesliga matches this season, a year removed from 36 goals in all competitions.
Here are some more stories to get your Columbus Day started:
BUNDESLIGA COMING TO 21st CENTURY FOX
Starting in 2015, American fans of the Bundesliga will be able to watch their favorite teams on Fox Sports, after a landmark deal was agreed upon by the German league and 21st Century Fox.
The five-year-deal in the Americas and in Asia two-year-deal in select countries in Europe reportedly includes the exclusive rights to every Bundesliga match during the season, the DFL-Supercup, and the relegation playoffs on Fox’s sports properties, which includes Fox Sports, Sky Italia, and Fox International.
“These agreements confirm that the Bundesliga has legitimately evolved to become a top international sports media property,” Christian Seifert, CEO of DFL Deutsche Fussball Liga said in a statement. “21stCentury Fox is a global-scale partner that provides German soccer opportunities for worldwide exposure and future growth. We welcome these agreements as an expression of faith in the Bundesliga’s continued development over the coming years.”
The Bundesliga’s has garnered wide acclaim for the improved talent level recently that has produced a number of stars for the German National Team, and saw two clubs in Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund make the UEFA Champions League final last May. Currently, the Bundesliga is shown in North America on GolTV, who have had the rights since 2006.
BALOTELLI DECLARED FIT FOR ARMENIA MATCH
Playing without their star forward Mario Balotelli last Friday due to an illness, Italy struggled in a 2-2 draw at Denmark.
Now back home and preparing to face Armenia in Naples, the Italian medical staff have declared Balotelli to be fit and ready to play, though it’s up to head coach Cesare Prandelli whether the 23-year-old goal-scorer plays in the match on Tuesday.
“Today he will train with the group and we are confident for his condition,” said Italy team doctor Enrico Castellacci to Football Italia. “He will be available for tomorrow night against Armenia, but (Prandelli) will decide whether or not to play him.”
Balotelli has played just one time in October due to a three-match Italian league ban and illness. This calendar year for the Azurri, Balotelli has scored six goals in ten matches, including two in the Confederations Cup this past summer.
QUICK KICKS
Fulham manager Martin Jol has received backing from owner Shahid Khan. (REPORT)
Spain are expecting a sell-out when they face Georgia in Albacete’s Estadio Carlos Belmonte, which has a capacity of 17,000. (REPORT)
With qualification wrapped up, Argentina National Team manager Alejandro Sabella has released Angel Di Maria and Sergio Aguero back to Real Madrid and Manchester City, respectively. (REPORT)
Even without Gerardo Martino at the helm, Newell’s Old Boys have continued their impressive run through the Argentine championship, defeating River Plate, 1-0, to stay three points ahead of the pack at the top of the Argentine league standings. (REPORT)
Despite not having Ronaldinho due to injury, Atletico Mineiro won the Belo Horizonte derby over Brazilian Serie A leaders Cruzeiro, 1-0. (REPORT)
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What do you think of these reports? Do you see a chance for Lewandowski moving to England? Glad to see Fox receive the rights to the Bundesliga? Do you see Balotelli playing against Armenia?
Share your thoughts below.