Novak Djokovic (ATP number 1, in a press conference before his entry into the Masters 1000 at Indian Wells): “These two guys (Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal), as well as Andy Murray, took a very important in my career. They are inseparable from who I became as a player and everything I accomplished in my … Read more
Mauricio Pochettino (Chelsea coach, before hosting Leeds for the 5th round of the Cup): “With the owners, we exchanged our opinions on the match against Liverpool (defeat (1-0, ap), in League Cup final). I think we played very well throughout the 90 minutes. We created the best chances but we lacked clarity. This is what … Read more
Walter Mazzarri (Napoli coach, before the reception of Braga on behalf of the 6th day of the group stage of the Champions League) : “No, there is no fear, but I see that he lacks a little confidence. There are times when everything goes wrong for you and the team suffers. When we win, even … Read more
This time it’s the right one! A few minutes after a try was refused to Aaron Smith and the All Blacks on a forward (54th), New Zealand fullback Beauden Barrett flattened again in the South African goal (58th) , the test being this time validated by the refereeing body. This is the first and so … Read more
It’s music that is gradually gaining momentum across the Channel. David Raya’s performances in Arsenal’s goals are increasingly being questioned, while his match against Chelsea this weekend (2-2) did not convince observers. He was notably at fault on the Blues’ second goal. In competition with Aaron Ramsdale, who started his position last season, the Spanish … Read more
Xavi (Barcelona coach, after the victory against Athletic Bilbao 1-0): “Before coming into play, I told him (to Marc Guiu) : “You’re going to have a chance and you’re going to score.” We always try to be positive with our players and give them confidence. He’s only 17 and I see him ready. The difference … Read more
Romelu Lukaku, AS Roma striker on loan from Chelsea: “I read a lot of bullshit. And there were times when I was like, “Okay, now I can explode.” But there you go, I think five years ago I did it, but now I can’t waste energy on it. The only thing I can do is … Read more
Mauricio Pochettino (Chelsea coach): “Today it was a must win and we had to win this match. Of course, there is always intensity and sometimes pressure to win. It’s not perfect to be in this position. I think in the second half we dominated the game and from there we deserved the victory. I think … Read more
After its good start against New Zealand (27-13), the French XV calmly continues its preparation before its second match, Thursday, against Uruguay, at the Pierre-Mauroy stadium in Lille (9 p.m.). Flyhalf Antoine Hastoy and pillar Dorian Aldegheri appear this Monday at the daily press briefing for the XV of France. They will be accompanied by … Read more
Patrick Vieira (Strasbourg coach, beaten in Nice 0-2 on Sunday): “We were in great difficulty. We were really inside the whole match, on the defensive phases as well as on the offensive phases. We didn’t know how to keep the ball to build, despite our median block. The goal was to strengthen the environment. It’s … Read more