It's hard to sign a Kroos or a Pogba... but Herrera is a bonus, says United coach Butt

Nicky Butt has backed Ander Herrera to become a success at Manchester United but admits the Spanish midfielder is not yet at the same level as the likes of Toni Kroos or Paul Pogba.
The 24-year-old became new manager Louis van Gaal's first signing after joining from Athletic Bilbao for £28.4million.
But according to Butt, Herrera is not yet as good as Kroos, who on Thursday moved from Bayern Munich to Real Madrid, or former Old Trafford youth team graduate Pogba, who has been quoted at £60m to leave Juventus.

Midfield man: Ander Herrera became Louis van Gaal's first signing in a £28.4m deal

Benchmark: Herrera is not at the same level as Toni Kroos (left) or Paul Pogba (right)

Butt, now on the coaching staff at Old Trafford, admits that Herrera needs time to reach the same standard as that duo.
'He [Herrera] was at the level where you just had to take note of this player because there are not many top midfielders you can get,' Butt told the Manchester Evening News about the player he spent time scouting last season.
'You can all talk about Pogba or Kroos but these kind of players are not easy to get. So you have to widen your net and Herrera is a bonus.
'He is at a level where he can play at a club like United and given a bit of time he can excel.

I watched Ander a few times last season on scouting trips. He impressed me. He can become a star player for us. He can become a big influence on our midfield [but] you will have to be patient with him.'
Kroos was mooted as a potential target during David Moyes ill-fated reign before it became clear he was moving to the Bernebeu - while United will rue letting Pogba leave the club in search of first-team football.

Patience: Nicky Butt (centre) insists Herrera will become a star given time at Old Trafford

Read More »

Real Madrid pull off transfer coup as they seal Kroos on £24m deal from Bayern as World Cup winner signs six-year deal

Toni Kroos has completed his £24million move to Real Madrid from Bayern Munich.

The German champions announced on Thursday morning that an agreement had been reached between the clubs and he would make an immediate transfer.

Kroos’ contract was due to expire next summer and the World Cup winner has penned a six-year deal at the Bernabeu.

Real deal: Toni Kroos has signed for Real Madrid from Bayern Munich for £24m

Champions: Kroos (18) celebrates Germany's World Cup final victory over Argentina

Battered: Kroos scored twice against Brazil as Germany crushed the hosts

TONI KROOS TROPHY CABINET

1 World Cup (2014)
1 Champions League (2013)
1 Club World Cup (2013)
1 UEFA Supercup (2013)
3 Bundesliga (2008, 2013, 2014)
3 German Cup (2008, 2013, 2014)
2 German Supercups (2010, 2012)

And Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said: 'We would like to thank Toni Kroos for his time here in Munich.

'We enjoyed great success here together. We would like to wish him and his family all the best in Madrid and with Real.'

Kroos won three Bundesliga titles in four seasons with Bayern, clinching the DFB-Pokal three times and being part of the historic treble-winning side of 2012/13.

That year they also clinched the Champions League, before winning the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup last season.

In total, Kroos made 173 Bundesliga appearances, scoring 23 goals, 13 for Bayern and 10 during an 18-month loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen.

The midfielder was an ever-present for Germany at the World Cup, lifting the trophy in Rio de Janeiro last Sunday.

He joins compatriot Sami Khedira in Madrid and will be presented to the media later on Thursday after undergoing a medical.

Gunned down: Kroos celebrates after his superb goal against Arsenal in the Champions League last season

Read More »

Chelsea could beat Arsenal for £20m Khedira as Mourinho is urged to make 11th hour bid

Chelsea were encouraged to battle for the signature of Sami Khedira on Wednesday night as his agent claimed no deal had yet been struck with Arsenal.

Blues manager Jose Mourinho signed left-back Filipe Luis on Wednesday from Atletico Madrid for £18million and then set his sights on Germany midfielder Khedira.

Arsenal were understood to have agreed a £20million fee with Real Madrid for the 27-year-old but were struggling to match his wage demands of more than £180,000 a week.

On the move: Sami Khedira has not signed a new deal at Real Madrid and is set to leave

However, Khedira’s agent Jorg Neubauer said: ‘We are not in  talks with Arsenal. I don’t think  a fee can have been agreed, otherwise I would have been told.’

Khedira is a favourite of Mourinho’s from his time at Real and the coach is understood tothings. The same goes for Chelsea.’

Khedira is a favourite of Mourinho’s from his time at Madrid and the coach is understood to have tried to persuade him to move to Stamford Bridge.

Khedira is available as Real Madrid and his representatives have hit an impasse in negotiations over a contract extension.

Neubauer added: ‘We are talking to Real Madrid about his contract, but nothing is close to being decided. Sami has just returned from the World Cup and has gone on holiday.’

World Cup winner: The German has been linked with a move to Arsenal and Chelsea

Read More »

New era without Suarez starts with defeat as Rodgers' second-string side fall to Brondby after last minute winner

Liverpool's opening friendly of the summer ended in defeat in Denmark on the day their relationship with Luis Suarez officially ended.
As Barcelona spoke about signing Suarez for the first time since releasing a statement last Friday that they had agreed a £75million fee for him, Brendan Rodgers was overseeing a workout in Brondby for a squad that was high on enthusiasm but low on experience.
Rodgers’ were beaten 2-1 by a last minute goal in the Brondby Stadion, a result that was joyously received by locals – “we’ve never lost to Liverpool!” they sang at the final whistle – but it is not a result Rodgers will read anything in to.

Homecoming: Daniel Agger captained Liverpool on his return to his first club

Swede dreams are made of this: Youngster Kristoffer Peterson celebrates his equaliser

Denied: Reds levelled shortly after half-time but couldn't hold out for a result

Boy from Brazill: Philippe Coutinho (C) glides past players at the Brondby Stadium

None of his four new signings featured nor did any of the Liverpool players who have been on duty at the World Cup; this was simply an exercise to give a number of the younger members of his squad a run-out alongside established players such as Daniel Agger, Martin Skrtel and Lucas Leiva.
Pre-season matches used to be sedate affairs played out in relaxed atmospheres but the way football has changed was never more apparent than the greeting that was reserved for the two teams as they made their way onto the pitch.
With the Van Halen hit ‘Jump’ blasting through the speakers, the Brondby Stadium was full to capacity and awash with a sea of yellow and blue shirts at one end and red and white ones at the other; this was a scene you would expect for a European game, not a glorified training session.
Given the following they enjoy in Scandinavia, Liverpool were always guaranteed to receive a warm ovation and special acclaim was reserved for Daniel Agger, who moved to Anfield from Brondby in January 2006. He remains an icon in these parts.

First blood: Christian Norgaard opened the scoring for the hosts on 23minutes

Yellow peril: Brondby players celebrate with Christian Norgaard after the opening goal

Best foot forward: Jaoa Teixeira of Liverpool (R) competes with Frederik Holst of Brondby IF

Guess his back: Fabio Borini returned to the side after spending last season on loan at Sunderland

Agger, fittingly, captained Liverpool in the first half and he almost gave the home supporters what they wanted in the 28th minute but, after exchanging passes with Philippe Coutinho following a surging run from his own half, his shot was saved by Brondby goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky.
Liverpool were behind at that point, trailing to a goal from Christian Norgaard. The midfielder had seized upon a mistake by Liverpool substitute Kevin Stewart, making his debut after joining from Tottenham, to sweep a drive past Brad Jones from 22 yards.
Rodgers’ side finished the first period strongest and Hradecky impressed with how he kept Liverpool at bay, making a smart double stop from Brad Smith and Philippe Coutinho on 31 minutes before denying Lucas and taking a chance of Fabio Borini’s toe in stoppage time.

Tat's the way to do it: Captain for the day Daniel Agger applauds the Danish hosts

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Luis Suarez, David Luiz, Casilas and Diego Costa all feature in Sportsmail's worst World Cup XI

The World Cup is over and, for the fourth time in history, Germany came out victorious after a 1-0 triumph over Argentina in the final..

There were some simply sublime displays in Brazil, with the likes of Javier Mascherano, James Rodriguez and Manuel Neuer all putting in a series of utterly imperious displays.

But in much the same way as for every reaction, there is an equal and opposite reaction - in football for every brilliant player there is an equally terrible one.

So who were the worst XI in Brazil? Here, Sportsmail runs the rule over eleven men who failed ever so badly in Brazil.

WORLD CUP WORST XI (3-4-3)
 
IKER CASILLAS (Spain) – Had a blooper reel all of his own. The mis-control that gifted Robin van Persie a goal in the 5-1 defeat to Holland was the pick of the bunch.

Nightmare: Iker Casilass endured a nightmare couple of games as Spain lost to Holland and Chile

PEPE (Portugal) – His tournament ended when he was sent off against Germany for stupidly thrusting his head into Thomas Mueller’s, leaving Portugal with 10 men for nearly an hour. They lost 4-0.

Moment of madness: Pepe's headbutt on Thomas Muller in the Group G opener cost Portugal dearly

GERARD PIQUE (Spain) – The Barcelona defender suffered more than most in the shocking 5-1 defeat to Holland. Endured a torrid time and was not seen again.

Passed by: Gerard Pique was destroyed in Spain's opener, before not being seen again in Brazil

DAVID LUIZ (Brazil) – Has a player’s stock ever fallen so rapidly? A contender for Team of the Tournament, Luiz’s world caved in as Brazil conceded 10 goals against Germany and Holland.

Tearful: David Luiz was woeful in Brazil's horrendous 7-1 defeat to Germany in the semi-final 

ANTONIO VALENCIA (Ecuador) – The Ecuador skipper had already been sent off against England in a pre-tournament friendly when he saw red for a late challenge in the final group game with France. No goals, no assists.

Head in hands: Antonio Valencia leaves the pitch after receiving a red card against France

PAULINHO (Brazil) – The Tottenham man was utterly anonymous much of the time. At least his Brazil teammate Fernandinho kept himself occupied by kicking opponents.

Chasing shadows: Paulinho was one of many Brazilian players who was poor throughout the tournament

WILSON PALACIOS (Honduras) – Set about France in the second group game like he wanted to be sent off and got his wish, conceding a penalty in the process.

Why always me? Wilson Palacios was disappointing for Honduras in the group stage

EDEN HAZARD (Belgium) – Contributed two assists but we expected so much more from the Chelsea man. Did Jose Mourinho really say that he’s the best young player in the world?

Underwhelming: Eden Hazard was disappointing for Belgium in Brazil

LUIS SUAREZ (Uruguay) – No sooner had Suarez knocked out England than he was up to his old tricks, biting Italy’s Giorgio Chiellini. The striker was out of the World Cup and Uruguay weren’t far behind.

Impact: Luis Suarez had a rather dramatic two games in Brazil against England and Italy

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »

Don't blame David, it's not fair, says Mourinho - the man who sold Brazil's calamity defender to PSG for £50m

Jose Mourinho thinks it is unfair to single out David Luiz after the former Chelsea defender made a number of mistakes during Brazil's humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany. In the absence of suspended captain Thiago Silva, Brazil's back four was ripped apart by Germany in the World Cup semi-final in Belo Horizonte. And Luiz, who started alongside Dante in the centre of defence and skippered his side, endured a torrid evening as Joachim Low's side tore through the hosts at will. Scroll down for videos... Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Heartbreak: David Luiz has been singled out for criticism after Brazil's World Cup defeat by Germany Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Trailing: The PSG defender watches former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle score Germany's seventh Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador Mourinho is Yahoo's Global Football Ambassador But Mourinho, speaking in his capacity as Yahoo’s Global Football Ambassador, thinks the whole Brazil team are to blame, not just Luiz. The Chelsea manager said: 'I don't think it's fair to separate a player from the team, because the team was really bad. 'David made mistakes? Yes he did. But, Dante made mistake, Marcelo made mistakes, Fernandinho made mistakes. The team as a team made mistakes. So I don't think it’s fair. 'I think everyone in my situation, everyone that is a player, everyone that is a coach, everyone that is not involved in the World Cup, but could be in that position.' Luiz was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for £50million this summer, but he was part of the most devastating defeat in Brazil's World Cup history in Belo Horizonte on Tuesday. VIDEO Disbelief in Belo Horizonte after devastating Germany win

Read More »