Since there was not a lot of news today, I want to start with a rather awkward comment. Carles Puyol said that he hopes Barcelona can prevent Lionel Messi from going to the Olympics because they need Messi to start the season off well. Barca has a Champions League qualifying game that they want Messi to play in, and after that they would release him. This follows a number of disputes between German clubs and FIFA about whether or not they have to release their players. Apparently FIFA did not put the Olympics on the international fixtures list so clubs are questioning whether they have to release players who are called up. FIFA is saying it's too obvious, not really a sensical argument, and that all U-23 players must be released. Messi is 21 so he would have to be released, but this means that while Ronaldinho was included in Dunga's squad Milan do not have to release him. It amazes me that Puyol would make a club over country comment like this, especially after Spain's Euro Cup was supposed to bring the country together. The Olympics has never been a big tournament, but to say you hope a teammate doesn't get a chance at a gold medal is not cool. Seeing how various players have defied their clubs to train with their country shows that the players are taking this seriously. For a lot of them, this is a chance to prove themselves and earn a place in World Cup Qualifying. Messi doesn't need to do this, he should have a starting place on the senior squad guaranteed, but it's probably uncomfortable for him to be in the middle of a row(fight) between Barca and the AFA. I doubt there will be any problems between the players, as Messi only reaches Puyol's knees, and given his injury history Messi gets worried when a fly lands on him. But bad form Puyol, bad form.
In another awkward comment by a Carlos, Carlos Tevez said that Ronaldo should be allowed to join Real Madrid if he wants. This breaks with the company line, and will probably make for an uncomfortable conversation with Alex Ferguson(I am unsure if anyone has ever had a comfortable conversation with Alex Ferguson). Tevez spoke of the dream that all players have to play for Madrid and while Man U is nothing to sneeze at, players should be allowed to follow their dreams. How touching. There could be a certain amount of self interest involved, as Ronaldo's departure would give more opportunities to Tevez. Tevez does play further forward, but he is comfortable on either side of the pitch, has incredible pace and a wicked strike. Apparently he also has a big boca(mouth).One Liners
- Chelsea confirm pursuit in Robinho, I confirm duhhhh
- Kaboul agrees deal with Sunderland, Malbranque holding out for more croissants
- River Plate was offered Pizarro, did not have enough pesos to pay him
- Liverpool sign Ngog, fans agog
- Muntari may be bound for Inter, Harry Redknapp begins twitching early this year
- Everton lining up possible Wagner Love transfer, he is a player I have strong feelings over
