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European football leagues (La Liga, Ligue 1, Bundesliga, Serie A, etc.) 2020-21 Discussion Thread
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The Viper
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FT: Lazio 3-0 Roma
Union Berlin 1-0 Bayer Leverkusen
Montpellier 2-3 Monaco
Union Berlin 1-0 Bayer Leverkusen
Montpellier 2-3 Monaco
The Viper
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Real Madrid "see the end of the Zinedine Zidane era" but do not want to replace him as manager until the summer, says Spanish football expert Guillem Balague.
The Spanish champions were humiliatingly knocked out of the Copa del Rey in the last 32 by third division Alcoyano on Wednesday.
Newspaper AS called it "one of the most embarrassing pages in Real's history".
"Their idea is to take a big decision after the season," said Balague.
"Zidane has come back from the brink several times before, even this campaign, but the team seems to have hit a wall."
Why Real and captain Ramos are at a stand-off
The 2-1 defeat by Alcoyano, who played the final 10 minutes of extra time with 10 men, was the latest worrying result for Real.
Zidane returned last season and guided them to a first league title in three years, having previously led them to three consecutive Champions League successes, one league title, two Club World Cups and two Uefa Super Cups in his first spell in charge.
But this season they are four points behind leaders Atletico Madrid - who have two games in hand - and looked less than convincing during the Champions League group stage.
"He's a legend of the club and they will wait to see how it progresses - they don't want to accelerate that because it's not a guarantee of anything," added Balague.
"But the disappointment is not just because of results, though those have not been good. They lost to Cadiz and Shakhtar Donetsk at home, lost 4-1 against Valencia, lost to Alaves at home, Shakhtar away and Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals of the Super Cup and now Alcoyano as well.
"These are bad results but the disappointment is more than that.
"There are two things the Real hierarchy are a bit annoyed about.
"They saw him not giving any instructions at the end of 90 minutes against Alcoyano and no instructions at half-time in extra time. It kind of confirms the lack of instructions players get generally, as their football is mostly based on the quality of the players.
"And the other thing is you can run with the quality of Toni Kroos, Casemiro, Luka Modric and Karim Benzema for a while but the plan was to recycle the side and start bringing youngsters in - players like Dani Ceballos, Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Achraf Hakimi, Brahim Diaz, Sergio Reguilon, Luka Jovic and Martin Odegaard, and he hasn't done this at all.
"These guys are either out or sold or want to go. Then there are players like Mariano Diaz, Federico Valverde, Alvaro Odriozola and Eder Militao - these young players were supposed to be part of the starting side more often than not, but again they seem to be used lately for less important games. That's the disappointment.
"There is a big gap between the successful players and the new players and he doesn't seem able to make that transition.
"The club are quite determined they don't want to do anything during the season but they see the end of an era."
AS also called the latest defeat a "nightmare", and another Spanish newspaper Marca said "if he is saved from this it is a miracle".
Zidane himself took sole responsibility for the loss.
"Whatever has to happen will happen," he said. "I assume responsibility and we will continue working. We will not go crazy.
"I think the players are with me but you have to ask them. We have done good things in the season. We have to concentrate on things that can be done."
The Spanish champions were humiliatingly knocked out of the Copa del Rey in the last 32 by third division Alcoyano on Wednesday.
Newspaper AS called it "one of the most embarrassing pages in Real's history".
"Their idea is to take a big decision after the season," said Balague.
"Zidane has come back from the brink several times before, even this campaign, but the team seems to have hit a wall."
Why Real and captain Ramos are at a stand-off
The 2-1 defeat by Alcoyano, who played the final 10 minutes of extra time with 10 men, was the latest worrying result for Real.
Zidane returned last season and guided them to a first league title in three years, having previously led them to three consecutive Champions League successes, one league title, two Club World Cups and two Uefa Super Cups in his first spell in charge.
But this season they are four points behind leaders Atletico Madrid - who have two games in hand - and looked less than convincing during the Champions League group stage.
"He's a legend of the club and they will wait to see how it progresses - they don't want to accelerate that because it's not a guarantee of anything," added Balague.
"But the disappointment is not just because of results, though those have not been good. They lost to Cadiz and Shakhtar Donetsk at home, lost 4-1 against Valencia, lost to Alaves at home, Shakhtar away and Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals of the Super Cup and now Alcoyano as well.
"These are bad results but the disappointment is more than that.
"There are two things the Real hierarchy are a bit annoyed about.
"They saw him not giving any instructions at the end of 90 minutes against Alcoyano and no instructions at half-time in extra time. It kind of confirms the lack of instructions players get generally, as their football is mostly based on the quality of the players.
"And the other thing is you can run with the quality of Toni Kroos, Casemiro, Luka Modric and Karim Benzema for a while but the plan was to recycle the side and start bringing youngsters in - players like Dani Ceballos, Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Achraf Hakimi, Brahim Diaz, Sergio Reguilon, Luka Jovic and Martin Odegaard, and he hasn't done this at all.
"These guys are either out or sold or want to go. Then there are players like Mariano Diaz, Federico Valverde, Alvaro Odriozola and Eder Militao - these young players were supposed to be part of the starting side more often than not, but again they seem to be used lately for less important games. That's the disappointment.
"There is a big gap between the successful players and the new players and he doesn't seem able to make that transition.
"The club are quite determined they don't want to do anything during the season but they see the end of an era."
AS also called the latest defeat a "nightmare", and another Spanish newspaper Marca said "if he is saved from this it is a miracle".
Zidane himself took sole responsibility for the loss.
"Whatever has to happen will happen," he said. "I assume responsibility and we will continue working. We will not go crazy.
"I think the players are with me but you have to ask them. We have done good things in the season. We have to concentrate on things that can be done."
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The Viper
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Marseille's match at home to Rennes in France's Ligue 1 was postponed after violent scenes at their training ground on Saturday.
Local police say that 300 Marseille supporters "violently attacked" officers at the training centre. There were 25 arrests.
Seven police officers were injured.
There have been a number of protests in recent weeks by Marseille fans about the way the club is being run, on and off the pitch.
The French league (LFP) said: "In view of the incidents that took place this afternoon at the Olympique de Marseille training centre, the match has been postponed to a later date."
Supporters briefly broke into the training facility on Saturday afternoon, with the side seventh in Ligue 1 after three successive defeats. The match against Rennes was due to take place at 20:00 GMT.
"300 OM supporters violently attacked police officers present to secure La Commanderie," tweeted the local police.
They added that reinforcements were sent "to put an end to the damage".
Manager Andre Villas-Boas led the club to second in Ligue 1 last season but said on Friday he was unlikely to get a contract extension beyond June and was set to leave at the end of the present campaign.
"It looks like the end," said the Portuguese. "I think it'll all be over in June.
"I'm demanding nothing because looking at where we are it wouldn't be right. And I think everyone agrees with that.
"I can't see an extension materialising.
"The place needs a clear-out including myself, unless I get 10 straight wins maybe not. But I'm responsible for the results and right now they're awful."
Local police say that 300 Marseille supporters "violently attacked" officers at the training centre. There were 25 arrests.
Seven police officers were injured.
There have been a number of protests in recent weeks by Marseille fans about the way the club is being run, on and off the pitch.
The French league (LFP) said: "In view of the incidents that took place this afternoon at the Olympique de Marseille training centre, the match has been postponed to a later date."
Supporters briefly broke into the training facility on Saturday afternoon, with the side seventh in Ligue 1 after three successive defeats. The match against Rennes was due to take place at 20:00 GMT.
"300 OM supporters violently attacked police officers present to secure La Commanderie," tweeted the local police.
They added that reinforcements were sent "to put an end to the damage".
Manager Andre Villas-Boas led the club to second in Ligue 1 last season but said on Friday he was unlikely to get a contract extension beyond June and was set to leave at the end of the present campaign.
"It looks like the end," said the Portuguese. "I think it'll all be over in June.
"I'm demanding nothing because looking at where we are it wouldn't be right. And I think everyone agrees with that.
"I can't see an extension materialising.
"The place needs a clear-out including myself, unless I get 10 straight wins maybe not. But I'm responsible for the results and right now they're awful."
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Super Cup Bundesliga German Cup German Super Cup Champions League Club World CupBayern Munich have won SIX trophies in a single season. The only other side to do that were Barcelona in 2009.
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Benjamin Pavard scored the only goal as Bayern Munich beat Tigres to win the Fifa Club World Cup final in Qatar, their sixth trophy in nine months.
Bayern have won the Uefa Super Cup, German Super Cup and are now world champions, to complete a clean sweep of trophies after last season's Treble.
Pavard's goal was initially ruled out for a Robert Lewandowski offside but given after VAR consultation.
Joshua Kimmich had earlier had a goal disallowed by the VAR.
This is the eighth year in a row that a European club has won the Fifa Club World Cup, including Liverpool last season.
Tigres of Mexico were the first team from North or Central America to reach the final but could not end the dominance of European and South American teams in the tournament.
Former France striker Andre-Pierre Gignac failed to add to his three goals in Qatar, although still won the Golden Boot.
Former Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola, now the Manchester City manager, recorded a video congratulating his old team.
"Big congratulations to the whole Bayern family for this incredible success. To be the club world champions and to win six out of six titles - I am so proud," he said.
"I would like to say to Hansi [Bayern boss Flick] you are the second team to win six in a row. Before it was Barcelona [in 2009 under Guardiola]. Maybe I can call Messi and company and we can play for the seventh title. Tell me when and where."
Qatar was hosting the tournament, which is being viewed a trial run for next year's World Cup. A limited amount of fans were allowed to watch at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan.
The victory cemented Bayern's status as the outstanding club team of 2020 - the Club World Cup was meant to be in December but delayed because of Covid.
Since Flick took over in November 2019, they have won 58 out of 68 games - and lifted a trophy every 11.3 games.
They deserved their victory over Tigres, despite being far from their best.
Kimmich had a goal controversially ruled out by the VAR in the first half because Lewandowski - who did not touch the ball - was in an offside position and adjudged to have distracted the goalkeeper.
Lewandowski was flagged offside when his header was saved in the second half but Pavard's half-volley into an empty net was allowed to stand after VAR consultation.
Leroy Sane hammered a shot off the angle of post and bar, and Corentin Tolisso had a shot tipped on to the post as they could have won by more.
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/56011123
Bayern have won the Uefa Super Cup, German Super Cup and are now world champions, to complete a clean sweep of trophies after last season's Treble.
Pavard's goal was initially ruled out for a Robert Lewandowski offside but given after VAR consultation.
Joshua Kimmich had earlier had a goal disallowed by the VAR.
This is the eighth year in a row that a European club has won the Fifa Club World Cup, including Liverpool last season.
Tigres of Mexico were the first team from North or Central America to reach the final but could not end the dominance of European and South American teams in the tournament.
Former France striker Andre-Pierre Gignac failed to add to his three goals in Qatar, although still won the Golden Boot.
Former Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola, now the Manchester City manager, recorded a video congratulating his old team.
"Big congratulations to the whole Bayern family for this incredible success. To be the club world champions and to win six out of six titles - I am so proud," he said.
"I would like to say to Hansi [Bayern boss Flick] you are the second team to win six in a row. Before it was Barcelona [in 2009 under Guardiola]. Maybe I can call Messi and company and we can play for the seventh title. Tell me when and where."
Qatar was hosting the tournament, which is being viewed a trial run for next year's World Cup. A limited amount of fans were allowed to watch at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan.
The victory cemented Bayern's status as the outstanding club team of 2020 - the Club World Cup was meant to be in December but delayed because of Covid.
Since Flick took over in November 2019, they have won 58 out of 68 games - and lifted a trophy every 11.3 games.
They deserved their victory over Tigres, despite being far from their best.
Kimmich had a goal controversially ruled out by the VAR in the first half because Lewandowski - who did not touch the ball - was in an offside position and adjudged to have distracted the goalkeeper.
Lewandowski was flagged offside when his header was saved in the second half but Pavard's half-volley into an empty net was allowed to stand after VAR consultation.
Leroy Sane hammered a shot off the angle of post and bar, and Corentin Tolisso had a shot tipped on to the post as they could have won by more.
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/56011123
SpiritOf1903
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Bundsliga is a foregone conclusion.
Will Milan be able to stay the course of are Inter best placed?. Juventus haven't hit the heights of even Sarri yet.
Ajax look good for another Eredivisie and Turkey's Super Lig is of the tightest in Europe; can Ozil take the title back to Asia?.
Will Milan be able to stay the course of are Inter best placed?. Juventus haven't hit the heights of even Sarri yet.
Ajax look good for another Eredivisie and Turkey's Super Lig is of the tightest in Europe; can Ozil take the title back to Asia?.
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Neil Lennon: Celtic manager resigns with side 18 points adrift of Rangers
Celtic manager Neil Lennon has resigned with his side 18 points adrift of Rangers in the Scottish Premiership.
Lennon took charge for a second spell in February 2019 when Brendan Rodgers left and led the club to two titles, two Scottish Cups and a League Cup.
However, Celtic are well behind their Glasgow rivals in their bid to win 10-straight titles and slumped to defeat at struggling Ross County on Sunday.
Assistant manager John Kennedy will take interim charge of the team.
"We have experienced a difficult season due to so many factors and it is very frustrating and disappointing that we have not been able to hit the same heights as we did previously," Lennon said.
"I have worked as hard as ever to try and turn things around, but unfortunately we have not managed to get the kind of run going that we have needed.
"I have always given my best to the club and have been proud to deliver silverware to the Celtic supporters. The club will always be part of me. I will always be a Celtic supporter myself and I will always want the best for Celtic."
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/55130253
Celtic manager Neil Lennon has resigned with his side 18 points adrift of Rangers in the Scottish Premiership.
Lennon took charge for a second spell in February 2019 when Brendan Rodgers left and led the club to two titles, two Scottish Cups and a League Cup.
However, Celtic are well behind their Glasgow rivals in their bid to win 10-straight titles and slumped to defeat at struggling Ross County on Sunday.
Assistant manager John Kennedy will take interim charge of the team.
"We have experienced a difficult season due to so many factors and it is very frustrating and disappointing that we have not been able to hit the same heights as we did previously," Lennon said.
"I have worked as hard as ever to try and turn things around, but unfortunately we have not managed to get the kind of run going that we have needed.
"I have always given my best to the club and have been proud to deliver silverware to the Celtic supporters. The club will always be part of me. I will always be a Celtic supporter myself and I will always want the best for Celtic."
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/55130253
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The family homes of Paris St-Germain players Angel di Maria and Marquinhos were burgled while the French champions played Nantes on Sunday.
Argentina midfielder Di Maria was substituted in the 62nd minute of the 2-1 defeat after being told about the incident.
His family were only aware their home had been burgled after it happened.
Brazil defender Marquinhos said his parents' home had also been burgled, adding that "nobody was hurt".
The public prosecutor in Nanterre said the Banditry Repression Brigade (BRB), a French anti-organised crime squad, had been tasked with the investigation into the incident at Di Maria's home. It looked into burglaries of the homes of PSG striker Mauro Icardi and goalkeeper Sergio Rico earlier this year.
The Versailles prosecutor will be involved in the Marquinhos case.
Former Manchester United player Di Maria was the victim of an attempted burglary while at his home in Cheshire in 2015.
Argentina midfielder Di Maria was substituted in the 62nd minute of the 2-1 defeat after being told about the incident.
His family were only aware their home had been burgled after it happened.
Brazil defender Marquinhos said his parents' home had also been burgled, adding that "nobody was hurt".
The public prosecutor in Nanterre said the Banditry Repression Brigade (BRB), a French anti-organised crime squad, had been tasked with the investigation into the incident at Di Maria's home. It looked into burglaries of the homes of PSG striker Mauro Icardi and goalkeeper Sergio Rico earlier this year.
The Versailles prosecutor will be involved in the Marquinhos case.
Former Manchester United player Di Maria was the victim of an attempted burglary while at his home in Cheshire in 2015.
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Barcelona 4-1 Huesca
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Date: April 03, 2021.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/european/scores-fixtures/2021-04-03.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/european/scores-fixtures/2021-04-03.
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Bundesliga: Schalke players attacked with eggs by own fans after relegation
Schalke players and staff have been attacked with eggs by their own fans following their first relegation from the Bundesliga in 33 years.
The club suffered their 21st league defeat of the season in a 1-0 loss at Arminia Bielefeld on Tuesday.
Returning to Schalke's stadium early on Wednesday, the players were met by up to 600 of the club's fans.
Gelsenkirchen police said fans had already started lighting fireworks and flares near the ground after the game.
"Once the team arrived and stepped off the bus there were severe protests," police said in a statement. "Eggs were thrown at the players, who were also verbally attacked."
In response to the incident, Schalke said some "unidentified individuals clearly stepped over lines that are non-negotiable".
"While there is understandable frustration and anger for the relegation, the club will never accept it when the physical integrity of its players and staff is put in danger," Schalke said.
The 2018 Bundesliga runners-up are one of the most well supported clubs in Germany, typically drawing more than 60,000 fans to home games.
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/56830666
Schalke players and staff have been attacked with eggs by their own fans following their first relegation from the Bundesliga in 33 years.
The club suffered their 21st league defeat of the season in a 1-0 loss at Arminia Bielefeld on Tuesday.
Returning to Schalke's stadium early on Wednesday, the players were met by up to 600 of the club's fans.
Gelsenkirchen police said fans had already started lighting fireworks and flares near the ground after the game.
"Once the team arrived and stepped off the bus there were severe protests," police said in a statement. "Eggs were thrown at the players, who were also verbally attacked."
In response to the incident, Schalke said some "unidentified individuals clearly stepped over lines that are non-negotiable".
"While there is understandable frustration and anger for the relegation, the club will never accept it when the physical integrity of its players and staff is put in danger," Schalke said.
The 2018 Bundesliga runners-up are one of the most well supported clubs in Germany, typically drawing more than 60,000 fans to home games.
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/56830666
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David Alaba has agreed to join Real Madrid this summer on a five-year deal, according to Sky in Germany.
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Inter Milan have clinched their first Serie A title in 11 years, ending Juventus' nine-year dominance as Italian champions.
Antonio Conte's side put one hand on the trophy with a 2-0 win against Crotone on Saturday, but Atalanta's 1-1 draw at Sassuolo on Sunday ensured the Serie A leaders retained an unassailable 13-point cushion with four matches to spare.
The three points, courtesy of Christian Eriksen and Achraf Hakimi goals, already brought an end to Juventus' nine-year winning cycle which was kick-started by Conte himself in 2012 and continued by Max Allegri and Maurizio Sarri last term.
Inter have only twice tasted defeat this season - two 2-1 losses in the Milan derby in October and at Sampdoria in January, the latter followed by an ongoing 18-game unbeaten run which saw them collect 14 wins, 11 of them in a row.
Conte's side snatched top spot from AC Milan on February 14 and have held it ever since, with a 3-0 triumph over their cross-city rivals in February making them the runaway leaders during the business end of the season.
Juventus were expected to compete for the title yet again but endured a torrid season under Andrea Pirlo, with their spot in next season's Champions League still hanging in the balance.
The much-coveted Scudetto ends the Nerazzurri's decade-long trophy drought and represents their first league title since 2010 when Jose Mourinho led a side including Samuel Eto'o, Wesley Sneijder and Patrick Vieira to a Serie A, Coppa Italia and Champions League treble.
Twelve different managers including Claudio Ranieri, Walter Mazzarri and Roberto Mancini took the reigns at San Siro in the following nine years but the club languished in Serie A, finishing as low as ninth, failing to reach a major final and enduring a six-year absence from the Champions League.
It was Luciano Spalletti who took the club back on the European big stage, but much of the credit has to go to Conte. He made sure that one of Italy's biggest sleeping giants could finally return to their former glory, instantly leading them to a second-placed finish and their first European final in ten years.
Yes, he came in with a high degree of expectation and was positively backed in the transfer market, but he quickly identified the team's strengths and weaknesses and successfully developed a recognisable style of play which so often marked the achievements of his career - based on resolute defending and devastating counter-attacks.
It has not been plain sailing though. A drab performance in the derby loss against Milan and draws against Parma and Atalanta brought them as low as seventh in November. To make things worse, Conte suffered a humiliating elimination from the Champions League, finishing bottom in a group with Real Madrid, Borussia Monchengladbach and Shakhtar Donetsk - who they even twice failed to score against.
So, considering Inter's squad depth and their lack of European commitments, the Serie A title was not just viewed as the main target, but as a necessity to turn an otherwise ruinous season into a highly successful one. They have done so in great fashion, convincingly and deservingly churning out the wins in routine style, as great teams do.
Conte remains the architect but the influence of Romelu Lukaku, Hakimi and Nicolo Barella - the best striker, wing-back and midfielder in Italy - cannot go underestimated. After much frustration, Eriksen too was able to secure himself a regular starting spot and it's fitting that his goal at Crotone is now being pointed at as the Scudetto clincher.
Perhaps this could also be the start of a turnaround in European fortunes. Next year Inter will enter the Champions League group stage draw in Pot 1 so it is now imperative for the club to talk about the future with Conte and make sure the club continues to grow rather than wither.
"I have not forgotten how a lot of people turned their nose up when we signed Lukaku and said he was overrated," noted Antonio Conte after the win over Sassuolo. "But I always said that he arrived here with potential and that if he worked hard he could do extraordinary things. Lukaku has made exceptional improvements and can make even more."
Romelu Lukaku has been a revelation at Inter. With 21 goals this season, he is the team's top scorer and the key player in ending Juventus' nine-year dominance in Italy.
For the man himself, it is his first league championship since his time as a teenager at Anderlecht and a point proven after his Manchester United exit. At 27, he has answered those critics who focused on his limitations. He has done so by eliminating them.
https://www.skysports.com/football/...juventus-nine-year-reign-as-italian-champions
Antonio Conte's side put one hand on the trophy with a 2-0 win against Crotone on Saturday, but Atalanta's 1-1 draw at Sassuolo on Sunday ensured the Serie A leaders retained an unassailable 13-point cushion with four matches to spare.
The three points, courtesy of Christian Eriksen and Achraf Hakimi goals, already brought an end to Juventus' nine-year winning cycle which was kick-started by Conte himself in 2012 and continued by Max Allegri and Maurizio Sarri last term.
Inter have only twice tasted defeat this season - two 2-1 losses in the Milan derby in October and at Sampdoria in January, the latter followed by an ongoing 18-game unbeaten run which saw them collect 14 wins, 11 of them in a row.
Conte's side snatched top spot from AC Milan on February 14 and have held it ever since, with a 3-0 triumph over their cross-city rivals in February making them the runaway leaders during the business end of the season.
Juventus were expected to compete for the title yet again but endured a torrid season under Andrea Pirlo, with their spot in next season's Champions League still hanging in the balance.
The much-coveted Scudetto ends the Nerazzurri's decade-long trophy drought and represents their first league title since 2010 when Jose Mourinho led a side including Samuel Eto'o, Wesley Sneijder and Patrick Vieira to a Serie A, Coppa Italia and Champions League treble.
Twelve different managers including Claudio Ranieri, Walter Mazzarri and Roberto Mancini took the reigns at San Siro in the following nine years but the club languished in Serie A, finishing as low as ninth, failing to reach a major final and enduring a six-year absence from the Champions League.
It was Luciano Spalletti who took the club back on the European big stage, but much of the credit has to go to Conte. He made sure that one of Italy's biggest sleeping giants could finally return to their former glory, instantly leading them to a second-placed finish and their first European final in ten years.
Yes, he came in with a high degree of expectation and was positively backed in the transfer market, but he quickly identified the team's strengths and weaknesses and successfully developed a recognisable style of play which so often marked the achievements of his career - based on resolute defending and devastating counter-attacks.
It has not been plain sailing though. A drab performance in the derby loss against Milan and draws against Parma and Atalanta brought them as low as seventh in November. To make things worse, Conte suffered a humiliating elimination from the Champions League, finishing bottom in a group with Real Madrid, Borussia Monchengladbach and Shakhtar Donetsk - who they even twice failed to score against.
So, considering Inter's squad depth and their lack of European commitments, the Serie A title was not just viewed as the main target, but as a necessity to turn an otherwise ruinous season into a highly successful one. They have done so in great fashion, convincingly and deservingly churning out the wins in routine style, as great teams do.
Conte remains the architect but the influence of Romelu Lukaku, Hakimi and Nicolo Barella - the best striker, wing-back and midfielder in Italy - cannot go underestimated. After much frustration, Eriksen too was able to secure himself a regular starting spot and it's fitting that his goal at Crotone is now being pointed at as the Scudetto clincher.
Perhaps this could also be the start of a turnaround in European fortunes. Next year Inter will enter the Champions League group stage draw in Pot 1 so it is now imperative for the club to talk about the future with Conte and make sure the club continues to grow rather than wither.
"I have not forgotten how a lot of people turned their nose up when we signed Lukaku and said he was overrated," noted Antonio Conte after the win over Sassuolo. "But I always said that he arrived here with potential and that if he worked hard he could do extraordinary things. Lukaku has made exceptional improvements and can make even more."
Romelu Lukaku has been a revelation at Inter. With 21 goals this season, he is the team's top scorer and the key player in ending Juventus' nine-year dominance in Italy.
For the man himself, it is his first league championship since his time as a teenager at Anderlecht and a point proven after his Manchester United exit. At 27, he has answered those critics who focused on his limitations. He has done so by eliminating them.
https://www.skysports.com/football/...juventus-nine-year-reign-as-italian-champions
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Bayern Munich celebrated being crowned champions of Germany for the ninth straight season in style as Robert Lewandowski's hat-trick helped them thrash Borussia Monchengladbach.
The title had been confirmed hours earlier after nearest challengers RB Leipzig lost to Borussia Dortmund.
A Lewandowski double plus Thomas Muller and Kingsley Coman strikes gave Bayern a 4-0 half-time lead.
Lewandowski's third came from a penalty before Leroy Sane added a sixth.
Bayern finished with 10 men when 18-year-old substitute Tanguy Nianzou was shown a straight red card for a challenge.
Leipzig, who started the day seven points behind the leaders with three games remaining, lost 3-2 to Dortmund.
England's Jadon Sancho doubled Dortmund's lead after Marco Reus got the first goal.
Lukas Klostermann and Dani Olmo made it 2-2 before Sancho's winner confirmed Bayern as champions before their game with Monchengladbach.
Dortmund's win lifted them to fourth spot to boost their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League.
In April, Bayern announced Leipzig boss Julian Nagelsmann would join them on a five-year contract at the end of this season after current boss Hansi Flick said he wanted to leave the club.
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57038735
The title had been confirmed hours earlier after nearest challengers RB Leipzig lost to Borussia Dortmund.
A Lewandowski double plus Thomas Muller and Kingsley Coman strikes gave Bayern a 4-0 half-time lead.
Lewandowski's third came from a penalty before Leroy Sane added a sixth.
Bayern finished with 10 men when 18-year-old substitute Tanguy Nianzou was shown a straight red card for a challenge.
Leipzig, who started the day seven points behind the leaders with three games remaining, lost 3-2 to Dortmund.
England's Jadon Sancho doubled Dortmund's lead after Marco Reus got the first goal.
Lukas Klostermann and Dani Olmo made it 2-2 before Sancho's winner confirmed Bayern as champions before their game with Monchengladbach.
Dortmund's win lifted them to fourth spot to boost their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League.
In April, Bayern announced Leipzig boss Julian Nagelsmann would join them on a five-year contract at the end of this season after current boss Hansi Flick said he wanted to leave the club.
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57038735
Atletico Madrid remain two points clear at the top of La Liga but their draw at Barcelona means rivals Real Madrid now hold the advantage in the title race.
Real will move level on points with Atletico if they beat fourth-placed Sevilla on Sunday, but would go top because of their head-to-head record.
The top four can all still win La Liga in a remarkably tight title race.
Barcelona struggled to break their visitors down and sit two points behind Atletico with three games remaining.
Lionel Messi looked most likely to make something happen for the hosts and forced Jan Oblak into a diving save after a gliding run across the top of the box.
But the visitors created the better chances in the first half and Luis Suarez saw his strike well saved by Marc-Andre ter Stegen at the near post.
Barcelona trailed Atletico Madrid by 13 points in January and boss Ronald Koeman said he never imagined they would have closed the gap to just two before this meeting at the Nou Camp.
That difference remains the same following an edgy goalless draw, but both sides will feel the title race is far from over.
Suarez, returning to face his former side, embraced with old friend and ex-team-mate Messi before kick-off but posed a threat to Barcelona as soon as the whistle went.
The 34-year-old Uruguay international forced Ter Stegen into a smart stop and the goalkeeper then had to react quickly to palm the ball away from the lurking forward after keeping out Yannick Carrasco's shot.
Oblak tipped wide from Messi who had Barcelona's best effort of the first half at the other end, but the Argentine really came to life with half an hour remaining and so did the hosts.
Gerard Pique's header from Messi's cross was saved by Oblak, before Ousmane Dembele headed off target late on and Messi curled a free-kick narrowly over the crossbar.
"We are still alive in the chase for the title," said Pique. "We competed well and had more chances than them.
"It wasn't to be but we know the situation we are in. I think this is a title race that is still very much wide open."
The draw means Real Madrid are three points back and Sevilla seven off the lead, before their meeting on Sunday (20:00 BST).
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57027888
Real will move level on points with Atletico if they beat fourth-placed Sevilla on Sunday, but would go top because of their head-to-head record.
The top four can all still win La Liga in a remarkably tight title race.
Barcelona struggled to break their visitors down and sit two points behind Atletico with three games remaining.
Lionel Messi looked most likely to make something happen for the hosts and forced Jan Oblak into a diving save after a gliding run across the top of the box.
But the visitors created the better chances in the first half and Luis Suarez saw his strike well saved by Marc-Andre ter Stegen at the near post.
Barcelona trailed Atletico Madrid by 13 points in January and boss Ronald Koeman said he never imagined they would have closed the gap to just two before this meeting at the Nou Camp.
That difference remains the same following an edgy goalless draw, but both sides will feel the title race is far from over.
Suarez, returning to face his former side, embraced with old friend and ex-team-mate Messi before kick-off but posed a threat to Barcelona as soon as the whistle went.
The 34-year-old Uruguay international forced Ter Stegen into a smart stop and the goalkeeper then had to react quickly to palm the ball away from the lurking forward after keeping out Yannick Carrasco's shot.
Oblak tipped wide from Messi who had Barcelona's best effort of the first half at the other end, but the Argentine really came to life with half an hour remaining and so did the hosts.
Gerard Pique's header from Messi's cross was saved by Oblak, before Ousmane Dembele headed off target late on and Messi curled a free-kick narrowly over the crossbar.
"We are still alive in the chase for the title," said Pique. "We competed well and had more chances than them.
"It wasn't to be but we know the situation we are in. I think this is a title race that is still very much wide open."
The draw means Real Madrid are three points back and Sevilla seven off the lead, before their meeting on Sunday (20:00 BST).
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57027888
Lille edged closer to their first Ligue 1 title in 10 years as a Burak Yilmaz double inspired them to a 3-0 win at 10-man Lens.
Yilmaz scored an early penalty before Clement Michelin was sent off for two yellow cards within 35 minutes.
The visitors capitalised with Yilmaz's 25-yard stunner, before Jonathan David added another after the break.
With two games left Lille are four points ahead of Paris St-Germain, who have a game in hand at Rennes.
Lille, last crowned champions in 2011, are looking to become the second club - after Monaco in 2016-17 - other than PSG to clinch the Ligue 1 title since 2013.
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57032110
Yilmaz scored an early penalty before Clement Michelin was sent off for two yellow cards within 35 minutes.
The visitors capitalised with Yilmaz's 25-yard stunner, before Jonathan David added another after the break.
With two games left Lille are four points ahead of Paris St-Germain, who have a game in hand at Rennes.
Lille, last crowned champions in 2011, are looking to become the second club - after Monaco in 2016-17 - other than PSG to clinch the Ligue 1 title since 2013.
https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/57032110
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Juventus have been told they face expulsion from Serie A if they remain part of the European Super League.
The Turin club, along with Barcelona and Real Madrid, are yet to withdraw from the proposed breakaway league.
Italian federation president Gabriele Gravina said: "If Juventus does not respect the rules they will be out.
"At the time of registration for the next Serie A championship the club will be excluded if they decide not to withdraw from the Super League."
Juve, Barca and Real continue to be committed to the project, and last week defended their involvement in the breakaway league in the face of what they call "threats" from Uefa.
But pressure is mounting on Serie A club Juve to withdraw.
"We are all a bit tired of this tug-of-war between Uefa and these three clubs," said Gravina. "I hope this dispute can be resolved as soon as possible. I hope to be able to mediate between Juventus and Uefa.
"The rules foresee the non-participation in our championship if the principles established by the federation and Uefa are not accepted.
"It's not good for international football, Italian football, Juventus. We have already said that the football association respects the rules."
The ESL was announced on 18 April but within 48 hours the plans had fallen apart with the English clubs withdrawing after fan protests and UK government pressure.
The nine clubs who withdrew from the competition have been given a financial punishment by Uefa.
Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal, along with AC Milan, Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid, also committed to the European governing body and its competitions.
They have agreed to make a combined 15m euro (£13.4m) goodwill contribution to benefit children's and grassroots football across Europe.
BBC
The Turin club, along with Barcelona and Real Madrid, are yet to withdraw from the proposed breakaway league.
Italian federation president Gabriele Gravina said: "If Juventus does not respect the rules they will be out.
"At the time of registration for the next Serie A championship the club will be excluded if they decide not to withdraw from the Super League."
Juve, Barca and Real continue to be committed to the project, and last week defended their involvement in the breakaway league in the face of what they call "threats" from Uefa.
But pressure is mounting on Serie A club Juve to withdraw.
"We are all a bit tired of this tug-of-war between Uefa and these three clubs," said Gravina. "I hope this dispute can be resolved as soon as possible. I hope to be able to mediate between Juventus and Uefa.
"The rules foresee the non-participation in our championship if the principles established by the federation and Uefa are not accepted.
"It's not good for international football, Italian football, Juventus. We have already said that the football association respects the rules."
The ESL was announced on 18 April but within 48 hours the plans had fallen apart with the English clubs withdrawing after fan protests and UK government pressure.
The nine clubs who withdrew from the competition have been given a financial punishment by Uefa.
Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal, along with AC Milan, Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid, also committed to the European governing body and its competitions.
They have agreed to make a combined 15m euro (£13.4m) goodwill contribution to benefit children's and grassroots football across Europe.
BBC
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Robert Lewandowski has equalled Gerd Muller's 49-year-old Bundesliga record for the most goals scored in a single campaign after he netted in Bayern Munich's draw with SC Freiburg.
The striker has now scored 40 goals in 28 league games this season.
Muller averaged a goal every 77 minutes when he set the Bundesliga record in 1972 but Lewandowski did so with an average of a goal every 58 minutes.
He has netted in 18 of his past 19 Bundesliga appearances.
The only team during that run Lewandowski failed to score against was Hertha Berlin on 5 February.
Lewandowski celebrated the goal by lifting up his playing top to show a T-shirt underneath with Muller's face on and the words "4ever Gerd".
His team-mates then quickly formed a guard of honour near the touchline opposite staff members while Lewandowski celebrated with his arms outstretched.
The striker has now scored 40 goals in 28 league games this season.
Muller averaged a goal every 77 minutes when he set the Bundesliga record in 1972 but Lewandowski did so with an average of a goal every 58 minutes.
He has netted in 18 of his past 19 Bundesliga appearances.
The only team during that run Lewandowski failed to score against was Hertha Berlin on 5 February.
Lewandowski celebrated the goal by lifting up his playing top to show a T-shirt underneath with Muller's face on and the words "4ever Gerd".
His team-mates then quickly formed a guard of honour near the touchline opposite staff members while Lewandowski celebrated with his arms outstretched.
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Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has tested positive for coronavirus and will remain in self-isolation.
Top five European leagues permutations: Title races, Champions League spots and relegation battles
Europe's top five leagues all conclude this week and there are still plenty of matters to be resolved – not least who will be crowned champions in Spain and France.
Every division has something riding on the final days of the season, whether it be top spot, European qualification, or relegation.
Ahead of what is set to be a dramatic conclusion to the Premier League, LaLiga, Ligue 1, Serie A and the Bundesliga campaigns, we look at the state of play in each league.
PREMIER LEAGUE
Manchester City wrapped up the Premier League title with three games to spare, making them the first team in the competition's history to win the title despite being as low as eighth on Christmas Day.
All three relegation places were also decided with three games remaining – a Premier League record – with Fulham joining Sheffield United and West Brom in dropping down a division.
That leaves just the European spots to fight for, and it is shaping up to be an entertaining end to the English top-flight season in that regard. Manchester United are guaranteed a top-four finish, but five other teams – Leicester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham and West Ham – are in the mix for the two other Champions League berths with two rounds of games to go.
There is also the small matter of the Europa League places for the teams finishing in fifth and sixth, as well as a spot in the inaugural Europa Conference League, which goes to the team in seventh, meaning everyone from 10th-placed Leeds United to Leicester in third have something to play for. That includes Arsenal, who have not missed out on European football of some sort in 25 years.
LALIGA
The Spanish title race appeared to take a dramatic twist on Sunday as Real Madrid leapfrogged Atletico Madrid at the summit for around 20 minutes. However, Atleti scored two late goals to beat Osasuna, meaning they are two points ahead of their city rivals heading into the final round of games.
Atleti, who have led the way at the top for 29 matchdays, now need to match Madrid's result against Villarreal when they travel to relegation-threatened Real Valladolid on the final day of the season. It is worth noting that Los Blancos have the superior head-to-head record, so a draw would not be enough for Atleti if Madrid win.
Barcelona are officially out of the title race, meanwhile, but they are assured of a top-four finish along with Sevilla. Real Sociedad and Real Betis occupy the Europa League spots, while Villarreal are in a Europa Conference League berth, though just one point separates the three teams so that could all yet change.
To complicate matters, Villarreal could still qualify for the Champions League by winning the Europa League final against Manchester United.
At the bottom end of the division, Eibar are already relegated and they will be joined by two of Valladolid, Elche or Huesca. Valladolid must beat Atletico in their final game to have a chance of staying up, while the onus is on Elche to better Huesca's result as they are level on points but have an inferior head-to-head record.
LIGUE 1
The Ligue 1 title battle is also going right down to the wire in a three-way dogfight. After a thrilling race that has lasted the course of the season, underdogs Lille lead heavyweights Paris Saint-Germain by one point with one matchday left.
Monaco have won seven of their previous eight games and are three points off leaders Lille, though they require both Les Dogues and PSG to slip up on the final day, as well as beating Lens. Should it come down to goal difference, PSG hold a big lead over their two title rivals.
Incredibly, PSG are still not yet technically assured of a Champions League place as Lyon in fourth are only three points worse off, although it would take a defeat for the reigning champions and victory for Lyon, plus a goal swing of 16, for them to miss out.
Monaco's opponents Lens, incidentally, also have plenty to play for at the weekend as they are sixth – enough for Europa Conference League qualification – but can still be caught by Rennes in seventh, while they could yet overtake Marseille in fifth if results go their way.
At the opposite end of the table, there may only be one spot left to be settled in the bottom three – Dijon and Nimes are both already down – but six teams are still very much in danger of the drop. Nantes occupy the relegation play-off spot, with Lorient, Brest and Strasbourg just a point better off, and Bordeaux and Reims only two points clear.
SERIE A
With Inter being crowned Scudetto winners for the first time in 11 years at the start of the month, the biggest storyline in Serie A regards Juventus' top-four fate. The dethroned champions, who had finished top nine years running before this season, are currently down in fifth.
Juve are one point behind Napoli and Milan in the two spots directly above them, while Atalanta are three points better off in second and have the better head-to-head record against the Bianconeri.
Andrea Pirlo's side are therefore in need of favours on the final day in what is poised to be a nail-biting finale in terms of those Champions League places. Lazio will finish sixth, so they are assured of Europa League football next term, while Roma hold a two-point advantage over Sassuolo in the Europa Conference League position.
Parma and Crotone are both down already and one of Benevento or Torino will join them, the latter currently three points outside of the relegation zone and with a game in hand to play on Benevento.
BUNDESLIGA
RB Leipzig provided Bayern Munich with some stern competition for a while, but the Bavarian giants' quality eventually told and they are Bundesliga champions for a ninth year running.
It's not only the title race that's done and dusted in Germany, in fact, as RB Leipzig are certain of second place, and both Borussia Dortmund and Wolfsburg will join them in the Champions League next season.
Eintracht Frankfurt and Bayer Leverkusen, meanwhile, will finish in fifth and sixth respectively regardless of events later this week.
However, Union Berlin have work to do if they are to finish seventh for a place in the Europa Conference League play-offs as Borussia Monchengladbach are a point further back, while Stuttgart and Freiburg are two behind with a game to go.
Seven-time German champions Schalke will be competing in the second tier of German football next season, but Cologne and Werder Bremen are hanging on in there, sitting two and one point behind Arminia Bielefeld respectively in 15th place.
https://onefootball.com/en/news/top...-league-spots-and-relegation-battles-33014761
Europe's top five leagues all conclude this week and there are still plenty of matters to be resolved – not least who will be crowned champions in Spain and France.
Every division has something riding on the final days of the season, whether it be top spot, European qualification, or relegation.
Ahead of what is set to be a dramatic conclusion to the Premier League, LaLiga, Ligue 1, Serie A and the Bundesliga campaigns, we look at the state of play in each league.
PREMIER LEAGUE
Manchester City wrapped up the Premier League title with three games to spare, making them the first team in the competition's history to win the title despite being as low as eighth on Christmas Day.
All three relegation places were also decided with three games remaining – a Premier League record – with Fulham joining Sheffield United and West Brom in dropping down a division.
That leaves just the European spots to fight for, and it is shaping up to be an entertaining end to the English top-flight season in that regard. Manchester United are guaranteed a top-four finish, but five other teams – Leicester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham and West Ham – are in the mix for the two other Champions League berths with two rounds of games to go.
There is also the small matter of the Europa League places for the teams finishing in fifth and sixth, as well as a spot in the inaugural Europa Conference League, which goes to the team in seventh, meaning everyone from 10th-placed Leeds United to Leicester in third have something to play for. That includes Arsenal, who have not missed out on European football of some sort in 25 years.
LALIGA
The Spanish title race appeared to take a dramatic twist on Sunday as Real Madrid leapfrogged Atletico Madrid at the summit for around 20 minutes. However, Atleti scored two late goals to beat Osasuna, meaning they are two points ahead of their city rivals heading into the final round of games.
Atleti, who have led the way at the top for 29 matchdays, now need to match Madrid's result against Villarreal when they travel to relegation-threatened Real Valladolid on the final day of the season. It is worth noting that Los Blancos have the superior head-to-head record, so a draw would not be enough for Atleti if Madrid win.
Barcelona are officially out of the title race, meanwhile, but they are assured of a top-four finish along with Sevilla. Real Sociedad and Real Betis occupy the Europa League spots, while Villarreal are in a Europa Conference League berth, though just one point separates the three teams so that could all yet change.
To complicate matters, Villarreal could still qualify for the Champions League by winning the Europa League final against Manchester United.
At the bottom end of the division, Eibar are already relegated and they will be joined by two of Valladolid, Elche or Huesca. Valladolid must beat Atletico in their final game to have a chance of staying up, while the onus is on Elche to better Huesca's result as they are level on points but have an inferior head-to-head record.
LIGUE 1
The Ligue 1 title battle is also going right down to the wire in a three-way dogfight. After a thrilling race that has lasted the course of the season, underdogs Lille lead heavyweights Paris Saint-Germain by one point with one matchday left.
Monaco have won seven of their previous eight games and are three points off leaders Lille, though they require both Les Dogues and PSG to slip up on the final day, as well as beating Lens. Should it come down to goal difference, PSG hold a big lead over their two title rivals.
Incredibly, PSG are still not yet technically assured of a Champions League place as Lyon in fourth are only three points worse off, although it would take a defeat for the reigning champions and victory for Lyon, plus a goal swing of 16, for them to miss out.
Monaco's opponents Lens, incidentally, also have plenty to play for at the weekend as they are sixth – enough for Europa Conference League qualification – but can still be caught by Rennes in seventh, while they could yet overtake Marseille in fifth if results go their way.
At the opposite end of the table, there may only be one spot left to be settled in the bottom three – Dijon and Nimes are both already down – but six teams are still very much in danger of the drop. Nantes occupy the relegation play-off spot, with Lorient, Brest and Strasbourg just a point better off, and Bordeaux and Reims only two points clear.
SERIE A
With Inter being crowned Scudetto winners for the first time in 11 years at the start of the month, the biggest storyline in Serie A regards Juventus' top-four fate. The dethroned champions, who had finished top nine years running before this season, are currently down in fifth.
Juve are one point behind Napoli and Milan in the two spots directly above them, while Atalanta are three points better off in second and have the better head-to-head record against the Bianconeri.
Andrea Pirlo's side are therefore in need of favours on the final day in what is poised to be a nail-biting finale in terms of those Champions League places. Lazio will finish sixth, so they are assured of Europa League football next term, while Roma hold a two-point advantage over Sassuolo in the Europa Conference League position.
Parma and Crotone are both down already and one of Benevento or Torino will join them, the latter currently three points outside of the relegation zone and with a game in hand to play on Benevento.
BUNDESLIGA
RB Leipzig provided Bayern Munich with some stern competition for a while, but the Bavarian giants' quality eventually told and they are Bundesliga champions for a ninth year running.
It's not only the title race that's done and dusted in Germany, in fact, as RB Leipzig are certain of second place, and both Borussia Dortmund and Wolfsburg will join them in the Champions League next season.
Eintracht Frankfurt and Bayer Leverkusen, meanwhile, will finish in fifth and sixth respectively regardless of events later this week.
However, Union Berlin have work to do if they are to finish seventh for a place in the Europa Conference League play-offs as Borussia Monchengladbach are a point further back, while Stuttgart and Freiburg are two behind with a game to go.
Seven-time German champions Schalke will be competing in the second tier of German football next season, but Cologne and Werder Bremen are hanging on in there, sitting two and one point behind Arminia Bielefeld respectively in 15th place.
https://onefootball.com/en/news/top...-league-spots-and-relegation-battles-33014761
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Cristiano Ronaldo cements domestic dominance as Juventus wins Coppa Italia
After what has been a difficult season, Juventus did at least give its fans something to cheer about with a 2-1 victory over Atalanta in the Coppa Italia final.
Federico Chiesa scored a 73rd-minute winner for Juventus after Atalanta's Ruslan Malinovskiy had canceled out Dejan Kulusevski's opener.
The victory means Cristiano Ronaldo has now won every major trophy in England, Spain and Italy -- the first player in history to achieve that feat.
Usually so dominant in domestic competitions, there has been little for Juventus to shout about this season and the club remains on the brink of missing out on next season's Champions League.
The Old Lady had won nine consecutive Serie A titles, before its run was ended by Inter Milan this season. Head coach Andrea Pirlo has been widely criticized for Juventus' form this season, which also included a shock elimination to Porto in the Champions League round of 16.
This Coppa Italia win is Pirlo's first major trophy as Juventus manager, but it remains to be seen whether it will be enough to convince the board that he's the coach to take the club forward.
Going into the final round of Serie A fixtures, Juventus needs to beat Bologna and hope that either AC Milan or Napoli drops points in order to qualify for next season's Champions League.
Wednesday's victory also marked what looks to be club legend Gianluigi Buffon's last game for Juventus. The 43-year-old has made more than 500 appearances and won 15 major trophies over two spells with the club.
Such is Buffon's remarkable longevity, the goalkeeper -- widely considered one of the greatest of all time -- won his first Coppa Italia in 1999 playing alongside Enrico Chiesa for Parma, and 22 years later, Buffon has won his sixth Coppa Italia playing alongside Enrico's son, Federico.
https://edition.cnn.com/2021/05/20/football/cristiano-ronaldo-wins-coppa-italia-spt-intl/index.html
After what has been a difficult season, Juventus did at least give its fans something to cheer about with a 2-1 victory over Atalanta in the Coppa Italia final.
Federico Chiesa scored a 73rd-minute winner for Juventus after Atalanta's Ruslan Malinovskiy had canceled out Dejan Kulusevski's opener.
The victory means Cristiano Ronaldo has now won every major trophy in England, Spain and Italy -- the first player in history to achieve that feat.
Usually so dominant in domestic competitions, there has been little for Juventus to shout about this season and the club remains on the brink of missing out on next season's Champions League.
The Old Lady had won nine consecutive Serie A titles, before its run was ended by Inter Milan this season. Head coach Andrea Pirlo has been widely criticized for Juventus' form this season, which also included a shock elimination to Porto in the Champions League round of 16.
This Coppa Italia win is Pirlo's first major trophy as Juventus manager, but it remains to be seen whether it will be enough to convince the board that he's the coach to take the club forward.
Going into the final round of Serie A fixtures, Juventus needs to beat Bologna and hope that either AC Milan or Napoli drops points in order to qualify for next season's Champions League.
Wednesday's victory also marked what looks to be club legend Gianluigi Buffon's last game for Juventus. The 43-year-old has made more than 500 appearances and won 15 major trophies over two spells with the club.
Such is Buffon's remarkable longevity, the goalkeeper -- widely considered one of the greatest of all time -- won his first Coppa Italia in 1999 playing alongside Enrico Chiesa for Parma, and 22 years later, Buffon has won his sixth Coppa Italia playing alongside Enrico's son, Federico.
https://edition.cnn.com/2021/05/20/football/cristiano-ronaldo-wins-coppa-italia-spt-intl/index.html
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It's the final weekend of the top-flight season in Spain and France, with a gripping finale expected to decide who will be crowned champions of La Liga and Ligue 1.
Over in Spain, Atletico Madrid are on the verge of winning their first league title for seven years but arch-rivals Real Madrid are waiting to pounce if they slip up.
In France, the top three - Lille, Paris St-Germain and Monaco - are separated by three points.
Leaders Lille, one point ahead of PSG going into the final day, are one win away from winning the crown for the first time since 2010-11.
Here, BBC Sport sets the scene for what promises to be a nail-biting last-day in both leagues.
La Liga: Will Simeone deliver the title?
Two teams separated by two points with one game to play. One thing already certain before Saturday's title-deciding games is the crown will be staying in Spain's capital.
With Barcelona out of the running, will leaders Atletico hold on or can Real, the defending champions, steal it at the death?
Atletico Madrid have a two-point cushion at the top of La Liga heading into the final day of the 2020-21 season
A win for Atletico at relegation-threatened Real Valladolid will secure a first league title since 2014 - and second under Diego Simeone, who has managed them since 2011.
Anything less opens the door for neighbours Real, who entertain Unai Emery's Villarreal - Manchester United's Europa League final opponents next Wednesday.
Atletico have 83 points but a last-day draw and a Real win would ensure both Madrid clubs finish on 84 points.
With head-to-head record - instead of goal difference - then coming into play, Real would be crowned kings of Spain as they have taken four points off Atletico in their two meetings in 2020-21.
"It's a final against Valladolid, with two sides fighting for their own different, but important, objectives and we will both give absolutely everything they've got to achieve it," said Simeone.
Atletico hope Luis Suarez will help them over the line. The former Liverpool forward has 20 goals in 31 La Liga appearances since joining from Barcelona last September.
However, Real are unbeaten in 17 league games, their best La Liga run within the same season since March 2014 under Carlo Ancelotti.
Race for La Liga - last-day fixtures
ATLETICO MADRID REAL MADRID
Real Valladolid (away) - 19th in the table Villarreal (home) - 7th in the table
Yet despite Karim Benzema's 22 league goals, Real face the bleak prospect of ending the season without a trophy after their Champions League semi-final exit to Chelsea and a humiliating early elimination from the Copa del Rey.
With both Atletico and Real's games kicking-off at 17:00 BST, it points to an exciting end to the season.
Ligue 1: Will Lille hold on?
Three teams separated by three points with one game to play - will Lille hold on and end Paris St-Germain's dominance?
PSG have won Ligue 1 seven times in the previous eight seasons - Monaco were champions in 2016-17 - but start the final day on 79 points, one behind leaders Lille.
Last season, PSG were awarded the title after it was announced the season would not resume because of the coronavirus pandemic. At the time, they were 12 points clear of nearest rivals Marseille, who had 10 games left.
Lille have a one point lead going into the final day of the 2020-21 Ligue 1 season
On Sunday, only a win will guarantee Lille are crowned champions, but this fascinating title race could still see the top three all finish on 80 points if Lille lose, PSG draw and Monaco, who start third on 77 points, win.
Unlike in Spain, goal difference would decide the title. That would favour Mauricio Pochettino's PSG, who have a far superior advantage on their two title rivals.
Captain Jose Fonte, the former Crystal Palace, Southampton and West Ham defender, told BBC Sport it would be a magnificent achievement for Lille to win the title.
"Although we don't have a Neymar or Mbappe or superstars on massive wages who can score 20-30 goals a season, we have a team," he added.
"Hopefully we can finish the job and have this fantastic story to remember for the rest of our lives."
Race for Ligue 1 - last-day fixtures
LILLE PARIS ST-GERMAIN MONACO
Angers (away) - 12th in the table Brest (away) - 16th in the table Lens (away) - 6th in the table
Lille will be confident of finishing the job at 12th-placed Angers (20:00 BST).
At the same time, PSG are at relegation-threatened Brest and Monaco are away to sixth-placed Lens.
PSG head into the weekend fresh from winning the French Cup for the sixth time in seven years by beating Monaco at the Stade de France - Pochettino's second trophy since taking charge in January.
Monaco need both Lille and PSG to lose if they are to snatch the title. Even then, they require a big win at Lens because of their inferior goal difference.
BBC
Over in Spain, Atletico Madrid are on the verge of winning their first league title for seven years but arch-rivals Real Madrid are waiting to pounce if they slip up.
In France, the top three - Lille, Paris St-Germain and Monaco - are separated by three points.
Leaders Lille, one point ahead of PSG going into the final day, are one win away from winning the crown for the first time since 2010-11.
Here, BBC Sport sets the scene for what promises to be a nail-biting last-day in both leagues.
La Liga: Will Simeone deliver the title?
Two teams separated by two points with one game to play. One thing already certain before Saturday's title-deciding games is the crown will be staying in Spain's capital.
With Barcelona out of the running, will leaders Atletico hold on or can Real, the defending champions, steal it at the death?
Atletico Madrid have a two-point cushion at the top of La Liga heading into the final day of the 2020-21 season
A win for Atletico at relegation-threatened Real Valladolid will secure a first league title since 2014 - and second under Diego Simeone, who has managed them since 2011.
Anything less opens the door for neighbours Real, who entertain Unai Emery's Villarreal - Manchester United's Europa League final opponents next Wednesday.
Atletico have 83 points but a last-day draw and a Real win would ensure both Madrid clubs finish on 84 points.
With head-to-head record - instead of goal difference - then coming into play, Real would be crowned kings of Spain as they have taken four points off Atletico in their two meetings in 2020-21.
"It's a final against Valladolid, with two sides fighting for their own different, but important, objectives and we will both give absolutely everything they've got to achieve it," said Simeone.
Atletico hope Luis Suarez will help them over the line. The former Liverpool forward has 20 goals in 31 La Liga appearances since joining from Barcelona last September.
However, Real are unbeaten in 17 league games, their best La Liga run within the same season since March 2014 under Carlo Ancelotti.
Race for La Liga - last-day fixtures
ATLETICO MADRID REAL MADRID
Real Valladolid (away) - 19th in the table Villarreal (home) - 7th in the table
Yet despite Karim Benzema's 22 league goals, Real face the bleak prospect of ending the season without a trophy after their Champions League semi-final exit to Chelsea and a humiliating early elimination from the Copa del Rey.
With both Atletico and Real's games kicking-off at 17:00 BST, it points to an exciting end to the season.
Ligue 1: Will Lille hold on?
Three teams separated by three points with one game to play - will Lille hold on and end Paris St-Germain's dominance?
PSG have won Ligue 1 seven times in the previous eight seasons - Monaco were champions in 2016-17 - but start the final day on 79 points, one behind leaders Lille.
Last season, PSG were awarded the title after it was announced the season would not resume because of the coronavirus pandemic. At the time, they were 12 points clear of nearest rivals Marseille, who had 10 games left.
Lille have a one point lead going into the final day of the 2020-21 Ligue 1 season
On Sunday, only a win will guarantee Lille are crowned champions, but this fascinating title race could still see the top three all finish on 80 points if Lille lose, PSG draw and Monaco, who start third on 77 points, win.
Unlike in Spain, goal difference would decide the title. That would favour Mauricio Pochettino's PSG, who have a far superior advantage on their two title rivals.
Captain Jose Fonte, the former Crystal Palace, Southampton and West Ham defender, told BBC Sport it would be a magnificent achievement for Lille to win the title.
"Although we don't have a Neymar or Mbappe or superstars on massive wages who can score 20-30 goals a season, we have a team," he added.
"Hopefully we can finish the job and have this fantastic story to remember for the rest of our lives."
Race for Ligue 1 - last-day fixtures
LILLE PARIS ST-GERMAIN MONACO
Angers (away) - 12th in the table Brest (away) - 16th in the table Lens (away) - 6th in the table
Lille will be confident of finishing the job at 12th-placed Angers (20:00 BST).
At the same time, PSG are at relegation-threatened Brest and Monaco are away to sixth-placed Lens.
PSG head into the weekend fresh from winning the French Cup for the sixth time in seven years by beating Monaco at the Stade de France - Pochettino's second trophy since taking charge in January.
Monaco need both Lille and PSG to lose if they are to snatch the title. Even then, they require a big win at Lens because of their inferior goal difference.
BBC
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Both Atletico and Real Madrid are trailing 1-0 at the moment. Real going behind to Villarreal within minutes of Valladolid's goal against Atletico.
All the pressure is on Real Madrid to turn it around.
All the pressure is on Real Madrid to turn it around.
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Atletico Madrid fight back to beat Real Madrid to La Liga title
Atletico Madrid edged city rivals Real Madrid to the La Liga title in dramatic fashion after coming from behind to beat Real Valladolid in the final game.
Diego Simeone's side trailed to Oscar Plano's strike but turned the match around in the second half through goals from Angel Correa and Luis Suarez.
Real scored twice late on to beat Villarreal 2-1 but came up short as they needed Atletico to drop points.
Atletico clinched their first title in seven years and their 11th overall.
It was a highly satisfactory triumph for Los Colchoneros as they finished just two points ahead of defending champions Real, who end the season without silverware.
Barcelona - playing without skipper Lionel Messi, who was resting before the summer's Copa America - won 1-0 at Eibar through Antoine Griezmann's acrobatic strike and clinched third place ahead of Sevilla.
Julen Lopetegui's side play their final league game on Sunday against Alaves but will finish fourth even with a victory because of an inferior head to head record against Barca.
Atletico Madrid edged city rivals Real Madrid to the La Liga title in dramatic fashion after coming from behind to beat Real Valladolid in the final game.
Diego Simeone's side trailed to Oscar Plano's strike but turned the match around in the second half through goals from Angel Correa and Luis Suarez.
Real scored twice late on to beat Villarreal 2-1 but came up short as they needed Atletico to drop points.
Atletico clinched their first title in seven years and their 11th overall.
It was a highly satisfactory triumph for Los Colchoneros as they finished just two points ahead of defending champions Real, who end the season without silverware.
Barcelona - playing without skipper Lionel Messi, who was resting before the summer's Copa America - won 1-0 at Eibar through Antoine Griezmann's acrobatic strike and clinched third place ahead of Sevilla.
Julen Lopetegui's side play their final league game on Sunday against Alaves but will finish fourth even with a victory because of an inferior head to head record against Barca.
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Lille have won Ligue 1! Phenomenal.
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Ligue 1
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Serie A
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The final day of this season's scores:
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Real Madrid will listen to offers for Eden Hazard and Gareth Bale this summer amid their continued interest in Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland.
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Former Benfica manager Bruno Lage has flown to London for talks with Wolves as the club continues its search to find Nuno Espirito Santo's replacement
Cristiano Ronaldo first player to finish as top scorer in Serie A, Premier League, La Liga
Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo finished the 2020-21 campaign as Serie A's top scorer to become the only player to achieve the feat in the Premier League, La Liga and Italy's top flight.
The 36-year-old scored 29 goals as the Bianconeri finished the season in fourth place. Inter Milan won the Serie A title, ending Juve's nine-year dominance.
In Ronaldo's third season in Italy, he has won the Capocannoniere race for the first time after having scored 21 in 2018-19, which was five behind Fabio Quagliarella, and 31 the following campaign to trail eventual European Golden Shoe winner Ciro Immobile by the same amount.
In total, he has scored 81 Serie A goals in 97 appearances and 101 in total from 133 games. Ronaldo won back-to-back Serie A Footballer of the Year awards in 2019 and 2020.
Ronaldo was the Premier League's top goal scorer in 2007-08 while at Manchester United with 31 goals, which helped him win his first Ballon d'Or later that year. He scored 42 in all competitions as United won the league and Ronaldo's first Champions League.
In total, he scored 118 goals in 292 appearances for United before leaving to join Real Madrid in 2009. While in England, he twice won the Players' Player of the Year and Football Writers awards in 2006-07 and 2007-08.
Ronaldo won the Pichichi trophy for La Liga's top scorer on three occasions, with the first coming in the 2010-11 season, when he scored 40 goals as Madrid finished second to Barcelona, but won the Copa del Rey -- his first trophy in Spain.
He was top scorer again in 2013-14 as he scored 31 times. That season, he won both the Champions League and Ballon d'Or award for the second time in his career. It was also the only time he was named La Liga Best Player.
In the following campaign, he again won the Pichichi after scoring 48 goals, but missed on the Ballon d'Or as Lionel Messi helped Barca to a La Liga, Copa and Champions League treble.
Ronaldo left Madrid for Juventus in 2018 as Los Blancos' all-time leading scorer with 450 goals in 438 appearances. In La Liga, he netted 311 times in just 292 games. He also won the Champions League four times with Madrid.
The Portugal international is also the top scorer in Champions League history with 134 goals. He has also been the leading scorer in seven different editions -- more than any other player.
Ronaldo has won the European Golden Shoe on four occasions (the last coming in 2014-15), which is second only to Messi, who has six.
https://www.espn.in/football/juvent...-top-scorer-in-serie-a-premier-league-la-liga
Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo finished the 2020-21 campaign as Serie A's top scorer to become the only player to achieve the feat in the Premier League, La Liga and Italy's top flight.
The 36-year-old scored 29 goals as the Bianconeri finished the season in fourth place. Inter Milan won the Serie A title, ending Juve's nine-year dominance.
In Ronaldo's third season in Italy, he has won the Capocannoniere race for the first time after having scored 21 in 2018-19, which was five behind Fabio Quagliarella, and 31 the following campaign to trail eventual European Golden Shoe winner Ciro Immobile by the same amount.
In total, he has scored 81 Serie A goals in 97 appearances and 101 in total from 133 games. Ronaldo won back-to-back Serie A Footballer of the Year awards in 2019 and 2020.
Ronaldo was the Premier League's top goal scorer in 2007-08 while at Manchester United with 31 goals, which helped him win his first Ballon d'Or later that year. He scored 42 in all competitions as United won the league and Ronaldo's first Champions League.
In total, he scored 118 goals in 292 appearances for United before leaving to join Real Madrid in 2009. While in England, he twice won the Players' Player of the Year and Football Writers awards in 2006-07 and 2007-08.
Ronaldo won the Pichichi trophy for La Liga's top scorer on three occasions, with the first coming in the 2010-11 season, when he scored 40 goals as Madrid finished second to Barcelona, but won the Copa del Rey -- his first trophy in Spain.
He was top scorer again in 2013-14 as he scored 31 times. That season, he won both the Champions League and Ballon d'Or award for the second time in his career. It was also the only time he was named La Liga Best Player.
In the following campaign, he again won the Pichichi after scoring 48 goals, but missed on the Ballon d'Or as Lionel Messi helped Barca to a La Liga, Copa and Champions League treble.
Ronaldo left Madrid for Juventus in 2018 as Los Blancos' all-time leading scorer with 450 goals in 438 appearances. In La Liga, he netted 311 times in just 292 games. He also won the Champions League four times with Madrid.
The Portugal international is also the top scorer in Champions League history with 134 goals. He has also been the leading scorer in seven different editions -- more than any other player.
Ronaldo has won the European Golden Shoe on four occasions (the last coming in 2014-15), which is second only to Messi, who has six.
https://www.espn.in/football/juvent...-top-scorer-in-serie-a-premier-league-la-liga
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Antonio Conte has left Inter Milan by mutual consent, with Simone Inzaghi likely to replace him as head coach of the Serie A champions.
Conte has agreed a deal with the club's owners which will see him paid €7m (£6m) for the final year of his contract.
The former Chelsea boss guided Inter to their first Serie A title in 11 years but was embroiled in a dispute with the club's owners after they proposed a downsizing of his squad.
Inter chairman Steven Zhang reportedly asked Conte to cut his wage bill by 15 to 20 per cent and potentially sell players worth up to £70m this summer.
Conte has agreed a deal with the club's owners which will see him paid €7m (£6m) for the final year of his contract.
The former Chelsea boss guided Inter to their first Serie A title in 11 years but was embroiled in a dispute with the club's owners after they proposed a downsizing of his squad.
Inter chairman Steven Zhang reportedly asked Conte to cut his wage bill by 15 to 20 per cent and potentially sell players worth up to £70m this summer.
Real Madrid have signed David Alaba from Bayern Munich on a five-year contract.
Sky in Germany reports the deal with Real that will earn him around £10.5m per year following the expiration of his Bayern contract.
Alaba had been at Bayern since 2008 but turned down multiple offers to extend his contract, including a €15m-a-year deal, but talks ceased in November.
Sky in Germany reports the deal with Real that will earn him around £10.5m per year following the expiration of his Bayern contract.
Alaba had been at Bayern since 2008 but turned down multiple offers to extend his contract, including a €15m-a-year deal, but talks ceased in November.
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Inter Milan have appointed Lazio's Simone Inzaghi as their new manager, with the Italian signing a two-year deal to replace Antonio Conte.
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Inter Milan have appointed Lazio's Simone Inzaghi as their new manager, with the Italian signing a two-year deal to replace Antonio Conte.
Ligue 1 set for huge overhaul which will reduce number of teams to 18
Ligue 1 is set to undergo a major change to the system which will see the number of teams reduced from 20 to 18, as reported by French outlet L’Equipe.
The French league currently holds 20 teams. The top two automatically qualify for the Champions League, while third place goes into the qualifiers.
Fourth and fifth qualify directly for the Europa League, and sixth goes into the new Europa Conference League.
Meanwhile, down at the bottom, the two lowest placed sides get relegated to Ligue 2, and the team in 18th plays a two-legged relegation play-off game with the team who won the play-offs from the second tier.
However, the system is about to change, with L’Equipe reporting that the league will be reduced to 18 teams from the beginning of the 2023/24 season. In the year before, there will be four teams relegated from the top flight.
This is a return to the former structure of the league, which used to be 18 teams up until 2002. It is believed that Metz are the only club who opposed the idea.
The overhaul comes at a time of financial difficulty for Ligue 1. The COVID-19 pandemic is still taking a heavy toll on clubs’ revenue, with games still being played behind closed doors.
Meanwhile, the failed €3.25 billion TV deal with Mediapro has also had a serious impact.
Ligue 1 will not be the only major league comprised of 18 teams. The Bundesliga is the most high-profile 18-team division, while the Eredivisie and Liga NOS are also made up of 18 clubs.
For now, Ligue 2 is expected to remain as it is. However, there may be discussions to also reduce it to 18.
https://onefootball.com/en/news/lig...ch-will-reduce-number-of-teams-to-18-33124939
Ligue 1 is set to undergo a major change to the system which will see the number of teams reduced from 20 to 18, as reported by French outlet L’Equipe.
The French league currently holds 20 teams. The top two automatically qualify for the Champions League, while third place goes into the qualifiers.
Fourth and fifth qualify directly for the Europa League, and sixth goes into the new Europa Conference League.
Meanwhile, down at the bottom, the two lowest placed sides get relegated to Ligue 2, and the team in 18th plays a two-legged relegation play-off game with the team who won the play-offs from the second tier.
However, the system is about to change, with L’Equipe reporting that the league will be reduced to 18 teams from the beginning of the 2023/24 season. In the year before, there will be four teams relegated from the top flight.
This is a return to the former structure of the league, which used to be 18 teams up until 2002. It is believed that Metz are the only club who opposed the idea.
The overhaul comes at a time of financial difficulty for Ligue 1. The COVID-19 pandemic is still taking a heavy toll on clubs’ revenue, with games still being played behind closed doors.
Meanwhile, the failed €3.25 billion TV deal with Mediapro has also had a serious impact.
Ligue 1 will not be the only major league comprised of 18 teams. The Bundesliga is the most high-profile 18-team division, while the Eredivisie and Liga NOS are also made up of 18 clubs.
For now, Ligue 2 is expected to remain as it is. However, there may be discussions to also reduce it to 18.
https://onefootball.com/en/news/lig...ch-will-reduce-number-of-teams-to-18-33124939
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