Football

Meanwhile, star striker Messi says he shared Vilanova's desire to add to the club's 14 titles under previous coach Guardiola.

Villa played his first competitive minutes since breaking his leg last December and capped the win with a goal.

Owner John Henry says Liverpool face a huge financial challenge to compete with the very best as the EPL side.

Van Persie will travel to United on Thursday to complete the formalities, the Arsenal statement said.

Lionel Messi will miss Barcelona's friendly against Hamburg SV later after bruising his calf.

Sanchez has scored 12 times in his 25 La Liga appearances after coming to Nou Camp from Udinese in 2011.

The 20-year-old Internacional player is in England for the London Olympics and featured in Brazil's 2-0 victory over Britain in a warmup match on Friday.

Tottenham midfielder has ended transfer speculation linking him with a move to the Bundesliga.

Shakhtar Donetsk coach Mircea Lucescu has claimed that the club has rejected the bid for the talented Brazilian.

The 27-year-old, regarded as one of the best defenders in the world, joined Milan from Fluminense in 2008.

It was allegedly reported that Terry had racially abused QPR defender Anton Ferdinand during an EPL match.

The 32-year-old believes he still has the ability to perform at the top level and will only consider offers from top-flight clubs.

After an average Euro 2012 for England, United shooter Wayne Rooney is eyeing some damage control.

Brazil international winger Hulk has hit back at criticism from legendary striker Romario by saying he deserves to be respected.

Forced by injuries to end the match with 10 men, the Azzurri had no answer for Spain's passing wizardry.

Tottenham winger Gareth Bale reportedly won't make Britain's Olympic football squad because of injury.