[shanghai_nobody]

Arsene steps down as Arsenal manager

It is my sad duty to announce the departure of Arsene Wenger, after twelve years at the club le prof has decided it is time for new blood at the club. The announcement was made to the board this morning, while the players were called in a day early so the Frenchman could tell the squad himself.

Despite the last four seasons failing to yield a single piece of silverware, Arsene has proved to be the most successful manager in Arsenals long and colourful history. During his tenure as the clubs longest serving manager Arsene has guided the club to 3 league titles, 4 FA cups and 4 charity shields. Also taking the club to the 2006 champions league final only to narrowly miss out to Barcelona.

After the 2003-04 season Arsene made history in being the first manager to guide a club to an undefeated season, that side which included the likes of Henry, Pires and Vieira famously being dubbed 'the invincibles'.

"I think it is time for me to move on, I don't do this easily and it is with a heavy heart that I leave the club I love." Arsene said today, press were shell shocked at the sudden departure of the Frenchman. "I've lived and breathed this club for over a decade, it is that reason why I am leaving. Trophies have not come recently and perhaps a new approach is needed.

"If for the club to succeed I have to watch from the stands with the other fans and a different manager in the dugout, then so be it." Arsene said about his emotional decision to depart the Emirates.

Arsenal as a club have been completely transformed on and off the pitch by Arsene in recent years. Arsenes love of the beautiful game has resulted in beautiful free flowing attacking football at the Emirates, that has gained plaudits all around the world. But off the pitch the changes have been huge under Wenger. The Frenchman had a huge part in designing the clubs state of the art training facilities, not to mention his eye for a bargain in Nicholas Anelka and the subsequent sale funded the building of the clubs training facilities. On top of this Wenger had a huge part to play in the design of the world class Emirates stadium.

"It's a wrench to lose Arsene, he had the boards full backing even without silverware in recent years. We were all surprised by his decision to leave, he loves this club and perhaps he feels we have stalled under him. It is a sign of his love for the club that he is willing to walk away and give someone else a chance, because he wants the club to do well."

Players were unavailable for comment today but they will return to pre-season training with the exception of Samir Nasri, Tomas Rosicky who are injured. "It will feel very strange tomorrow, when I wake up and I am not on the training pitch with the players. It will hit home my life will be different forever without Arsenal."

When asked about his future Wenger for once seemed unsure, "Football is like a relationship, you don't leave one and jump straight into another. I love Arsenal so perhaps some time out of football will be needed. I will return to management at some point, it is my passion."

Peter Hill-Wood wrapped up today's press conference, "I don't think words will justify what Arsene has done for this club. He is our greatest manager ever, he turned us into one of the biggest clubs in the world.

"His bust will rightfully stand proudly in the Emirates for decades to come and he will be regarded as a legend by our faithful fans. Arsene leaves on good terms and the board would like to thank him for all his hard work for this club. We wish him all the best and of course he is always welcome back as a living Arsenal legend."

[Wednesday, 10th June, 2009]

[shanghai_nobody]

Perez: "I'll bring Wenger to Madrid"

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has vowed to bring departed Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger to the Bernabéu. Perez wants the Frenchman to be at the helm of his second Galácticos project, Wenger is not the only man on the presidents radar, he is also interested in bringing Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas to Madrid.

"Arsene Wenger is a world class manager, he deserves to be at a world class club like Madrid. Having the best players in the world is only one part of a club, you need a world class manager to get the best out of them and that is why I want to bring Arsene here."

Wenger is currently unemployed after he stepped down as Arsenal manager days ago, since departing the Emirates and London the Frenchman has returned to his homeland with his family for a short break. Le Prof did speak to l'equipe about the rumours. "I did not leave Arsenal with any intentions of walking straight into another job. Real have not contacted me about any position so I don't know if it is simply rumours.

"What is going on at Madrid is very interesting though. Any manager would enjoy the job at Real, working with some of the finest players in the world and the task of returning them to a dominant force in Europe."

Wenger does seem interested in the job, Perez admitted he has not yet contacted Wenger and explained why, "Arsene was at Arsenal for a long time, he loved the club. This is his first time out of football for a long time. I thought out of respect I would not contact him immediately, but I hope he reads this and knows I will be approaching him in the near future.

"Arsene can win the champions league here, I know he is eager to win the tournament. He has the capability to do it, sadly the Arsenal board did not give him the necessary finances to do so, he will get that here."

Talk swiftly moved to Cesc Fabregas, despite bringing in the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, Xavi Alonso Perez still feels there is Space for the Spanish midfielder. "Cesc is one of the greatest players in the world, he is only 22 so he is only going to get better. He would easily fit into the squad here, Arsene spotted his talent and I know he would like Cesc to come with him."

Perez is confident that Fabregas's close relationship with Wenger and the chance to win medals would help him move to his favoured club Barcelona's arch rivals. "Players of course have teams they support, but Cesc is a driven young man. He is desperate to win trophies and he can do that here, if all goes to plan he will be doing it under the guidance of his mentor Arsene Wenger."

[Friday, 12 June, 2009]

[shanghai_nobody]

Peter Hill-Wood slams Perez
Perez wants to bring Fabregas to Madrid

___________________________________________________________________

Kevin McCarra
guardian.co.uk, Monday 14th June 2009 13:41GMT
Article history

___________________________________________________________________

Peter-Hill Wood said today that Cesc is not for sale. Photograph: Tim Hales/AP

Peter Hill-Wood slammed Real president Florentino Perez today, the Arsenal chairman was furious after Perez claimed he was intent on taking Cesc Fabregas to Madrid.

On Real's website Perez stated his intent to make ex-Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger his new manager, he also went on to say he hoped landing the Frenchman would help lure Fabregas away from the Emirates. Wenger seems intrigued by the Madrid job, he stated that he found the new Galactico's project 'interesting' before going on to say any manager would be keen on the job.

Since Perez swooped in for his second spell as the president of the Spanish giants, the money has been flowing. The world transfer record has been smashed twice since his return, with the acquisition of Kaka (€68.5million) and Cristiano Ronaldo (£80million), these two staggering transfer have been peppered by other hefty transfers, bringing in Arbeloa, Negredo, Raul Abiol, Karim Benzema, Granero and of course Xavi Alonso from Liverpool cost €83million.

Hill-Wood spoke out today, "I don't know who he [Perez] thinks he is. He has been disrespectful to Arsenal, it's poor taste to go on your own website and state you want another clubs star players.

"We've received no offer for Cesc, it's a lot of hot air as usual from Perez. He might have a magic chequebook but he still won't have enough money to tempt us to part with Cesc."

With the managers office still vacant since Wengers departure Hill-Wood was forced to speak out today. Arsenal players have been firmly kept in line with press issues, since the Frenchmans departure players have been told not to speak to the press, so naturally Fabregas was unavailable to comment. The current man in charge of first team duties is Mark Cook, the former Arsenal player turned coach/director of football did speak to the press today.

"I spoke to the lads in training, I asked them to refrain from interviews at the moment. We are going through a huge period of change, press will look to exploit that for a story about us, that is the last thing we need."

When questioned about the feeling in the first team Cook said, "Well it's unusual for the lads and everyone involved at the club to not have Arsene around. But the rest of the coaching staff have remained which has kept stability at the club.

"The players are professionals and they are focussed on being fit and ready for the season ahead."

Questions were aimed at the Arsenal Chairman regarding the possibility of Wenger going to Madrid and who his replacement will be. "I don't know about Arsene and Real, he never mentioned anything about Madrid when he was leaving.

"Of course he is a free agent and one of the best managers in the world, so obviously he will be linked with clubs."

When pushed for more information on who his own new manager will be the chairman was less forthcoming, "We are in the process of finding a replacement. It will take some time because Arsene will not be an easy man to replace, we are a big club who need a good manager. We won't rush into a decision."

It seems Hill-Wood will have to find a manager who the players respect, with Madrid lurking over the Emirates any new manager may have a fight on his hands to keep the star players Arsenal have.

[shanghai_nobody]

| FOOTBALL

Sunday, 21 June 2009 | Home > Sport > Football

Wenger takes over at Madrid

Arsene Wenger has taken over the 'interesting' challenge at Madrid

After being spotted in Madrid last week the expected happened today when Arsene Wenger was unveiled as the new Real Madrid. Perez was ecstatic after getting his number one managerial target, Arsenal fans are worried that Perez may now follow through on his second promise that he’ll bring Cesc Fabregas to Real.

The former Arsenal manager who stepped down at the Emirates just a month ago signed a bumper four year deal, Wenger doubled his earnings pocketing him a staggering £125,000 a week, ultimately netting the Frenchman a cool six million a year and more in bonuses if he can deliver the silverware that alluded him in his last four years at Arsenal.

Le Prof was unveiled today and fans have been bombarding various Real supporters forums stating this is the final link that club has missed in recent seasons. “I’ve been warmly received in Madrid, that is a good feeling and with the fans behind us from the off I’m sure I’ll be able to get to work straight away on winning some trophies.”

Perez has stated he managed to lure the Frenchman with the realistic prospect of winning the champions league, “I know it has pained Arsene not being able to win the champions league, he’s come close making it to one final. He is a good enough manager to win the champions league, it was simply Arsenal failed to give him the proper funding to do so, but we will.”

Perez has been known in the past to force managers hands in transfers, the president stated today that it would be Wenger who brings in any new faces. “Arsene has a fantastic eye for talent, he spotted Cesc Fabregas, Gael Clichy, Robin Van Persie and many more fantastic players. To not utilise this talent will be foolish, Arsene is in charge of transfers, my job will be to simply give him the money to make transfers happen.”

Arsene pressed home this matter at his first press conference as the new Real Madrid manager, “I’ve been promised I will be given free reign over players coming in and going out. I’m the manager, I sign the players and I pick the first team. Any interference and I will walk away immediately.”

Inevitably talk moved to transfer targets and if he would be swooping in at his old club, “Out of respect for Arsenal a club I love, I don’t want to get into transfer rumours with them today. They have a fantastic squad and their players will always attract transfer rumours without me adding to it.

“With regard to possible transfers I’ve not drawn up a huge list yet, I want to spend some time with the squad, I need to find our weak spots and those are the ones I will enhance.”

When pressed about a possible move for Fabregas the new Real boss simply said, “It is possible.”

With a host of new signings already at the Bernabeu Wenger was happy with the players signed, “All of them are top quality players, I know Ronaldo well from my time at Arsenal and I know what he can do to teams. Xavi Alonso, Kaka and Karim Benzema are all fantastic players, I have no worries about the players already signed.”

With Wenger cagey around transfer talk the questions soon turned to expectations, Wenger is known for building up a squad over time and preferring to nurture young talent. “Real expect success and it has been a long time since I enjoyed some, we will be looking to bringing back the league title to Madrid first and foremost. A good campaign in Europe is a must for a club of this size.

“I have been known to nurture talent and young squad, I do enjoy that side of the game but some financial constraints at Arsenal also forced me down that path. Here I can sign big players who will make an immediate impact and nurture youth at the same time.”

Some reporters felt that Wenger stepped down from his position at Arsenal to take up the reins at Madrid, something he denied today “I left Arsenal for my own reasons, it wasn’t easy. I did not leave Arsenal to come here, I planned to take a break from football for a year.

“Then I met Florentino, he excited me about what he wants to achieve at Madrid. Getting a chance to come here only happens once so I took it with both hands.”

Arsenal fans have been put on red alert, with Arsene at Madrid it is very possible he may be able to snatch some of the talents he nurtured away from the London club. Mark Cook who has become the defacto manager until a replacement is found spoke out today, “I’m very pleased for Arsene, if he stayed out of football it would have been a loss to the game. I wish him all the best. In terms of our players leaving, I don’t see that happening, the squad are happy to be here and any new manager will be backed by the board in a no need to sell situation, whatever the offer is.”

[shanghai_nobody]

Fabregas states Cook is the man for the job
Arsenal captain Cesc wants director of football Mark Cook as new manager
Fabregas hints at exodus from the club if he is not put in the managers office

___________________________________________________________________

Kevin McCarra
guardian.co.uk, Sunday 28th June 2009 13:41GMT
Article history

___________________________________________________________________

Fabregas wants Arsenal board to give Mark Cook a chance. Photograph: Tim Hales/AP

Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas broke the strict no press rule for Arsenal players today, the clubs captain spoke out that the club were wasting time looking for a new manager when the obvious choice was already at the club. Mark Cook seems to be the players choice and fans have grown even more fond of the cult figure after he rebuffed Madrid today.

Wenger was dealt a blow as his right hand man at Arsenal Cook refused to move to Real. The Frenchman’s first action at Madrid was to instruct Perez to bring Cook to Madrid as a coach and director of football, similar to the role he held at Arsenal under Wenger. Despite being offered more than double his current salary Cook refused the offer, gaining praise from fans, players and board alike.

“The praise has been something of a surprise,” Cook said today, “it was a very simple decision for me. I love two clubs and that is Arsenal and Rangers, I would never leave this club for Madrid, especially at this difficult time. I’ll stay at this club until I’m sacked.”

With a serious possibility of Cook being forced out by any new manager Fabregas has called on the board to give Cook a chance. “I don’t know how much more commitment he has to show the club. He could be out of a job when a new manager arrives because any new boss will want to bring in their own backroom staff, despite that he still turned down a fantastic offer from Madrid.”

Cook was being groomed to take over from his mentor Arsene Wenger in time, but the young protégé has seemingly lost that chance with Wenger departing earlier than expected. At just 40 and with little managerial experience the board seem reluctant to offer him the job, especially when the club rely on champions league football year in year out.

“The club would struggle to find a manager who is as passionate about Arsenal as Mark is, in pre-season training he has lifted the team during a tough time. He has the respect of every player at this club and that is something a new manager would have to earn, he already has it.”

Fabregas has risked the anger of the board breaking the press embargo as he continued, “I know it is a risk to appoint an untried manager, but the players will do their best for him in every match. We will fight for him and do our best to take Arsenal forward.”

The Spaniard also fired an ominous message at the board, “If he wasn’t given the job then some players may look at other options. He’s the man we want, we have all discussed it and I feel it was only right as the captain I come out and voice our opinion.”

With Fabregas hinting at an exodus if Cook is not appointed the board reacted, Ivan Gazidis released a short statement on the clubs website “Mark has always been on our mind, his love for the club is huge and it was demonstrated in his recent rejection of Madrid’s offer. The players and their opinion do matter to us, we will take this information on board when making our decision.”

Cook was asked about Fabregas breaking the clubs stance on no press and backing him, “He is the captain, I only asked the players to not speak to the press, I didn’t demand it. He is a passionate lad and he is simply showing leadership to the club which is why he’s the captain.

“It is nice to hear the players are backing me, I would obviously take the job if it was offered, if that happens is another story.”

[Fola]

You do put alot of detail into your stories, there's no doubting that. However it may just be me but all of your stories seem to look the same, I don't read your stories as much as i used to as i kinda like know what i'm going to get, if you understand me?

Anyway keep it the good work, see if you can continue with this one.

[shanghai_nobody]

Player pressure seals the job for Cook
Fabregas led a player push for Cook to be named Arsenal Manager
Rookie manager is handed a two year deal

___________________________________________________________________

Barry Glendenning
guardian.co.uk, Tuesday 07th July 2009 13:41GMT
Article history

___________________________________________________________________

Lavish Emirates stadium will be Cooks new office. Photograph: David Price/Arsenal FC

Mark Cook was handed his chance today, Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas played no small part in securing the Scotsman his new job at the Emirates. It was only a few days ago that Fabregas came out with a scathing assault on the Arsenal board for not approaching Cook. With rumblings of a possible transfer request flood from the clubs top players the Scotsman was handed the job.

It looks evident that the fear of losing star players Fabregas, Gallas, Clichy and Arshavin who are all attracting interest from other clubs, coupled with the club still in shock from Wenger’s departure meant Cook was the only man to galvanize the squad and retain the clubs stars.

“Mark was always in our mind, the reason we waited for so long was to see how the squad reacted under him, I don’t need to tell you how much the team respect him because Cesc has already done that.” Peter Hill-Wood said during Cook’s unveiling as the protégé became the manager.

“It’s an honour to be made the Arsenal manager.” Cook beamed today, the Scotsman has been at the club for over a decade as both a player and a member of the backroom staff. The former Scottish international further endeared himself to fans after recently rejecting a big money move to Madrid to team up with his mentor Arsene Wenger once more.

“The Madrid offer is not a big issue for me, I’d like to have continued working with Arsene but only here. I’m not interested in Real Madrid, I think it’s more interesting what we are trying to achieve here.”

Questions rained down on the rookie manager, first of all his lack of managerial experience was pointed out. “I am a rookie, I can’t deny that but I did learn from one of the best managers in the world, I’ve been involved with this club for a long time, that has given me experience.

“All managers have to gain experience at some time, it just so happens mines is going to be at a very big club that demand a level of success every season. I love this club and I would not have taken the job if I didn’t think I could do it, I don’t want to hurt this team and I would put the club before myself.”
Talk soon moved to a possible bid for Cesc Fabregas, “Cesc doesn’t want to go anywhere, he wants to stay at Arsenal and I want him to stay as well. It seems a very simple answer, he isn’t going anywhere.

“No one else will be leaving, I’m not being forced to sell so anyone who does leave it will be because I have decided.”

With regards to his own dealings in the transfer market the Scotsman said, “I do have money to spend, I won’t rush into any transfers. I’ll take my time and make sure that any signing will take the club forward.

“I think we need to add some more strength to our midfield, we have outstanding players in the middle of the park who can go forward and harm teams. We need someone who will patrol the midfield and aid in defence to allow the likes of Fabregas and Nasri to get forward more.”

Defence has been highlighted as a weak link but Thomas Vermaelen was bought by Wenger before his departure, “Thomas is a great player and we have Philip Senderos back, he is tall and strong and that is something we could use. I do have one defender in mind but if that comes to fruition is another story.”

The ultimate question came if Wenger has been in touch about any of his former players, “I’ve spoke to Arsene briefly, it was a personnel call to congratulate him. I spoke to him to explain why I refused the job offer, we have not discussed any transfer proposals at all.”

The Scotsman was handed a two year deal, critics have already came out to state they feel it is a short term fix to keep the squad together. Peter Hill-Wood and the rest of the board have seemingly been pushed into this decision by the players and may jump on any chance to ship Cook out, Hill-Wood moved to deny this today.

“Mark is not being signed because we were worried about any players leaving, that would be a foolish reason to sign a manager. He is a good coach and myself and the board feel that he will make a great manager, we trust in him and back him fully.”

Cesc Fabregas was delighted with the appointment of Cook, “When he came in to tell us he got the job we were delighted. He is the man we wanted for the job, we feel he can take the club forward.” The Arsenal squad are now free to speak to the press as Cook lifted the press ban.

[shanghai_nobody]

| FOOTBALL

Thursday, 09 July 2009 | Home > Sport > Football

Wenger keen on Gallas

Arsene Wenger wants to take William Gallas with him to Madrid

Just two days into his former protégé’s tenure as Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has already laid the ground work for a William Gallas bid. Despite the Frenchman only having 12 months left on his contract and being free to speak to clubs in January if no new offer is signed, Wenger is keen to bring him in now meaning he may have to fork out at least £4million.

Wenger spoke out about his intentions to sign the 32 year old centre back, “William is a world class centre back, he would fit in perfectly with the squad and provide some solidity to the back four.

“He is a spirited player who wants to win things, his hunger would rub off on the other players and spur them on.”

Gallas responded positively to these reports as he arrived for training today, “Real Madrid are a huge club, the possibility of winning trophies is appealing to any player and I’m no different. If any offer came in at this stage in my career I’d owe it to myself to take it seriously.”

Cook moved quickly at his press conference today to dampen any possible transfer of Gallas. “We received and enquiry, we stated he is not for sale but if that will be the end of it is down to Arsene and Real.

“No matter what the offer is I have no interest in selling Gallas, he is an outstanding centre back and would be impossible to replace without a large amount of money. Rather than selling him I’m much more interested in offering him a new deal, I believe he can play at the highest level for another couple of seasons.”

In other transfer news Cook admitted he had to bow out of a race to sign Lyon’s defensive midfielder Jeremy Toulalan, “We made a bid, I felt it was a fair offer for the player. Another club came in with an offer and we simply could not compete, we had to pull out of the chase.”

Arsenal’s offer was thought to be in the region of £11million which was rejected when Chelsea stormed in with a £16million offer. Cook was keen to bring in the Frenchman to add some defensive cover in his midfield, now the Scotsman will have to look at other options available to him.

“Alex Song is good, but he is young and I think some experience alongside him would help him a lot. Jeremy was not our only option, I have other players in mind and I’ll be looking into them now.”

[Todd]

Fola, on 19 December 2009 - 04:20 PM, said:

You do put alot of detail into your stories, there's no doubting that. However it may just be me but all of your stories seem to look the same, I don't read your stories as much as i used to as i kinda like know what i'm going to get, if you understand me?

Anyway keep it the good work, see if you can continue with this one.

At the end of the day though, isn't about the content that's actually on the page rather than the layout (sorry if I have extrapolated )? You can't really get much variation in a layout, if that's what you mean. If the content of the story is new, then surely it doesn't really matter

[shanghai_nobody]

Page last updated at 14:00 GMT, Tuesday, 14 July 2009
Flurry of transfer activity at Arsenal

A flurry of transfer activity swirled around the Emirates today, Denilson looks set to be the first casualty of the Cook era at Arsenal. The Scotsman accepted a £9.25million offer for the Brazilian midfielder. PSG had an offer for Armand Traore rejected while Francis Coquelin joined Watford on a six month loan.

Cook reportedly put Denilson out for tender with Sunderland and Man City both interested in signing the Brazilian midfielder. A host of European clubs joined the chase but ultimately Man City were the only club who had an offer accepted. City offered the £9.25million in one lump sum, while Sunderland wanted to pay it over a 48 month period.

The remainder of the offers were loan offers which Cook was not interested in, “Denilson is a good talent, hence the fee we have received for him. At the end of the day I just don’t think he is going to fit into the first team here.

“I have too much respect for him to leave him lingering in the reserve squad or on the bench. He deserves first team football but that won’t be coming at Arsenal.”

Denilson has stated he is keen to remain at the Emirates and will look to prove the manager wrong as contract talks go on with City. “I like it here at Arsenal, I like the club and the players and the style of football, I want to stay here.”

The Brazilian could join Emmanuel Adebayor and Kolo Toure who were both sold on by Wenger almost immediately after the end of last season.

Meanwhile Armand Traore was subject of a surprise bid from PSG, the French side are keen on the French winger and offered £1million for a season long loan, during the time of this loan he could be bought for a further £6.5million.

“It is a handsome offer, it shows the talent Traore has but it still isn’t enough to part with him.” Cook said today, “I don’t want to sell him, I think he has a bright future in football and at the moment that will be with Arsenal. Hopefully this season he will feature further in the first team.”

Traore was happy to see his manager backing him, “I don’t want to leave Arsenal, I’ve been here for a long time. I feel I am ready to start pushing for a first team place, I don’t want to leave
and I’m glad the manager wants to keep me.”

Francis Coquelin has ventured to Watford for a six month loan spell, Cook allowed the young French midfielder to go for some first team experience. “He’s too young for the first team here, he still needs experience and time in a first team, hopefully he’ll get that at Watford.

“He’s excited about the move and we’ll be looking forward to having him back in six months. Hopefully he’ll have improved with first team football.”

[shanghai_nobody]

Gallas rocks the boat for Madrid move
William Gallas handed in a transfer request after Madrid interest
Hours later the Frenchman stated he would remain at Arsenal

___________________________________________________________________

Paul Doyle
guardian.co.uk, Friday 17th July 2009 13:41GMT
Article history

___________________________________________________________________

Gallas finally pledged his future to Arsenal. Photograph: David Price/Getty Images

William Gallas has rocked the boat that new manager Mark Cook has fought to steady since taking over ten days ago. Gallas turned up early at the Emirates today, not to put in some extra training but instead to slap in a transfer request instead before talking to the press waiting outside.

“Real Madrid are interested in me and the simple fact is I want to move. I want to win things, I only have a few years left in football and I want to spend them winning things, I don’t think this is possible at Arsenal. That’s why I’ve handed in transfer request.” Gallas stated as he left the Emirates for training.

The Scotsman reportedly had a word with Gallas after training before meeting with the press. “I’m angry at the way he has went about this, he is a passionate player which I like but sometimes it leads to outbursts like this. I think he has disrespected the club by stating before the season starts that we cannot win things, that is not something he shares with the rest of the squad, we’re all confident.”

Despite this outburst Cook said the transfer request was denied, “If he had come to me in confidence things would be different, I would have let him go. We won’t be bullied.

“The other side is this passion and will to win is something we need, I told William this he can help the team to silverware this season and new signings will be coming to help take the club forward. I’ve told him to think on it, if he still wants to leave he will if a suitable offer comes in, I won’t have players who are not committed to our cause.”

Only a few hours later Gallas was once again in front of the press, with his tail firmly between his legs it seems Cook may have not been so diplomatic behind closed doors.

“I have been disrespectful, I didn’t mean it in the way it came out. I like Arsenal, I am hungry to win things with Arsenal and after talking to the manager in depth I realise he is very like me, he is passionate and I think he is the man to bring a fighting spirit to the club.

“I’ve revoked my transfer request, I want to stay at Arsenal and win things here nowhere else.”

Cook is thought to be mulling over the possibility of offering the 32 year old a two year extension, but with his hefty wage packet to consider it is thought Cook will opt to offer a one year extension while Gallas wants a two year deal.

Printable version Send to a friend Share Clip Contact us Article history

[shanghai_nobody]

Veloso completes protracted move
Contract talks held up the transfer of Miguel Veloso
The Portuguese defensive midfielder will not feature in Champions League

___________________________________________________________________

Paul Doyle
guardian.co.uk, Thursday 30th July 2009 13:41GMT
Article history

___________________________________________________________________

Gallas finally pledged his future to Arsenal. Photograph: Barry Coombs/PA Photos

Miguel Veloso finally completed a protracted move to Arsenal, it took three different contract offers each improving on wages and signing on fee before the Portuguese defensive midfielder signed on the dotted line for Arsenal.

Arsenal gaffer has been keen to bring in an experienced defensive midfielder to add some bite to his midfield and aiding his defence. Veloso was handed the number 6 jersey today after completing his £5.5million transfer. Sporting Lisbon fans were distraught to see the 23 year old depart, Sporting fans had taken him to their hearts despite starting his career at bitter rivals Benfica.

This is Cook’s first foray into the transfer market, considering the price many consider it to be a shrewd move, “Miguel is a fantastic player, he was eager to join the club and was patient during very long contract talks because he wanted to be an Arsenal player.

“He will bring some strength to the side, his passing is amazing and his first touch is sublime. He’ll be perfect for the side.” Fans are happy that a experienced defensive midfielder has finally been brought into the club, many pundits have claimed it has been Arsenal’s achilles heel.

“We’ve struggled in that position, Alex Song is still learning, he’s been moved about a bit but I still think he is great. Miguel has experience though, he’s been in the Sporting first team for a few seasons and had a good few games in Europe.”

Veloso is tied up at the Emirates until 2014 on a £30,000 a week contract, the Portuguese midfielder is raring to go. “This is a dream move for me, playing in front of 60,000 fans at home is any players dream. Moving to Arsenal is a big step up and I feel I am ready to make that step up.”

European football will not figure for Miguel, the defensive midfielder played for Sporting just last night in the Champions League qualifiers against FC Twente. “Miguel was still technically a Sporting player, we asked them not to play him out of courtesy because we would like to have him available for the Champions League but Sporting claimed not to receive our message.”

Miguel was also saddened at being forced to play and forfeiting Champions League football with Arsenal this season, “It was unfortunate, I done a lot for Sporting and I hoped they would leave me out. They didn’t and now I’ll miss out on the Champions League for Arsenal which is a blow.

“But I am confident we can win domestic trophies and I want to be part of that, I’m looking forward to the future with Arsenal. European football can come next year and with a year here I’ll be a better player for the club.”

Alex Song will be the European defensive midfielder choice by the looks of it, while first choice Veloso will have to look on from the sidelines. On the subject of future transfers Cook said, “I am looking at a few other players, I think we could do with one more midfielder with experience. As for other signings I’m not sure as of yet.”

[shanghai_nobody]

Babacar completes £6.5million switch to Arsenal
Sixteen year old striker Babacar sealed a big money move to Arsenal
Babacar is tipped to be the next drogba

___________________________________________________________________

Paul Doyle
guardian.co.uk, Monday 03rd August 2009 13:41GMT
Article history

___________________________________________________________________

Khouma Babacar is tipped to be the next Drogba. Photograph: Barry Coombs/PA Photos

Mark Cook has continued the tradition of the Wenger era of signing for the future. Khouma Babacar became the new managers second signing since taking over from departed Arsene Wenger, a few have been surprised at Cook shelling out £6.5million on a relatively unknown 16 year old striker.

While Babacar at 16 is surely one for the future he is seemingly in a future ‘plan b’ for Arsenal which pundits have claimed the club lack. At 6’3” and 13 stone the player is a huge physical power up front, parallels have already been drawn with Didier Drogba. “He is very similar, he’s big and physically strong but he has amazing pace and his finishing is lethal.

“If he focuses and works hard he could become a complete striker, he is going to have a bright future in football.”

Questions were aimed at the Scotsman for signing a complete unknown for such a hefty fee, “Khouma is going to be a fantastic player, Fiorentina knew that and we had to up our bid to make sure we got him. Luckily no other clubs had found out about him yet, if we waited for a year we would have been priced out of a bid. I wanted him here now so our coaches can work with and improve him as a player.”

The Senegal born striker joined Fiorentina last year, he said today that his move was a huge step up. “Fiorentina are not in the same league as Arsenal, the stadium and training facilities are much better here. The coaches I’ve met have been fantastic and are keen to help all the youngsters improve, that didn’t happen in Italy.

“Arsenal are a club who trust youth and will give them a chance, that is why I moved. I’m over the moon to join Arsenal and I want to be here for years to come.”

A healthy professional contract is awaiting Babacar when he turns eighteen, his deal will keep him at the club until 2013. “He is long term but I don’t doubt he’ll force his way into first team selection before I expect. He is a driven player and would offer us another dimension up front, we won’t rush him into the first team though.”

Pundits, critics and press alike have been scrambling for information on Babacar, nothing is known about the youngster. “It was my scout Francis Cagigao that spotted him, I had a few of my other scouts watch him before going over myself. After watching him myself I was hugely impressed, he might not be known now but it won’t be long until he is.”

Babacar will not join in training immediately with a groin strain, Cook has stated though that he feels Van Persie will be able to aid him in his development, “I think he can learn a lot from Robin’s footwork, he is his own player ultimately but they are similar in some ways and I think Khouma could learn a thing or two from him.”

The Senegal striker will be out for three weeks, Cook said his medical team had a good look and did not see it as a major problem. “Being injured isn’t great, I was worried that being injured might halt the transfer along with my work permit being denied at first. When I get fit I plan on training very hard, the manager suggested watching Robin and I will he’s fantastic.

“Arsenal are full of talent and I’ll be watching the first team training sessions closely so I can improve as a player.”

Printable version Send to a friend Share Clip Contact us Article history

[Shedender]

Fola, on 19 December 2009 - 03:20 PM, said:

You do put alot of detail into your stories, there's no doubting that. However it may just be me but all of your stories seem to look the same, I don't read your stories as much as i used to as i kinda like know what i'm going to get, if you understand me?

Anyway keep it the good work, see if you can continue with this one.

I’d agree with you here as it’s not only you bud, I think his stories all look the same as it’s a shame because the lad puts in a lot of detail into each and every post that he does, would like to see this take a twist but he’s still doing a good job.

Keep up the work pal, it’s still a good story and I will keep reading.

[shanghai_nobody]

Shedender, on 20 December 2009 - 11:37 AM, said:

I’d agree with you here as it’s not only you bud, I think his stories all look the same as it’s a shame because the lad puts in a lot of detail into each and every post that he does, would like to see this take a twist but he’s still doing a good job.

Keep up the work pal, it’s still a good story and I will keep reading.

I'm not sure if you mean as in layouts, because I've used six diff ones in this story already. As for twists and so on I'm not huge on them in FM stories, I'm a simple being I just like to read stories with info about the team and matches. I know it isn't everyones cuppa but can't please everyone. Hope you keep reading anyway.

[Shedender]

shanghai_nobody, on 20 December 2009 - 06:54 PM, said:

As for twists and so on I'm not huge on them in FM stories, I'm a simple being I just like to read stories with info about the team and matches. I know it isn't everyones cuppa but can't please everyone. Hope you keep reading anyway.

Usually whenever I do a story (last one was ages ago, don’t have ‘motivation’ now) I just post like transfer activity, usually match previews and match reports and if people didn’t like that then I didn’t care. I wasn’t complaining by the way because I’m enjoying your current story, hope it lasts and can’t wait until your next instalment.

[shanghai_nobody]

Real Madrid interested in French left back
Arsene Wenger wants to take Clichy to Madrid
Meanwhile Man City are interested Sagna

___________________________________________________________________

Paul Doyle
guardian.co.uk, Tuesday 04th August 2009 13:41GMT
Article history

___________________________________________________________________

Gael Clichy is a Real Madrid target. Photograph: Barry Coombs/PA Photos

Arsene Wenger has continued his flirtatious gazes at the Arsenal first team, this time the apple of his eye has been Gael Clichy. Wenger was keen to bring William Gallas to the club but that was put to bed when after chatting to Mark Cook the Frenchman stated he wanted to remain at Arsenal.

Wenger brought Clichy from AS Cannes for just £250,000 in 2002, in the years that followed Wenger turned Clichy into one of the most promising left backs in football. “He is already one of the best in the world, he’s only 24 a lot of people think he is older because he’s been involved in the Arsenal first team for so long.

“He still has time to improve, I think he would be a great addition to the club and I’m seriously looking at preparing a bid.” Wenger’s own talent for spotting youngsters could mean he may have to fork out at least £12million for the left back.

Clichy was positive towards a move in his reply to Wenger, “Nothing official has happened yet, I love Arsenal but I have a very close relationship with Arsene. If nothing happens I won’t mind I’ll be happy to stay.”

Meanwhile Bacary Sagna is attracting interest from Manchester City, Mark Hughes has had two deals with Arsenal already after signing Emmanuel Adebayor and Kolo Toure from Wenger. A third is expected soon with Denilson in talks with the club, an enquiry was submitted to Arsenal today asking how much the club would like for the right back.

Cook again was forced out to face the media to fend off clubs from his star players, “I might be a rookie but selling your first choice left back and right back might not be a great idea.” Said the Scotsman with tongue firmly in cheek.

“The enquiry was rejected, he’s not for sale. I have no intentions of selling Bacary, he doesn’t want to go and I don’t want to sell. City will just have to splash their cash on another target.”

As for Clichy the Scotsman is hoping his valuation may fend off the Spanish giants, “I’ve been told we would accept a £10million bid, that’s not the case it would have to be at least double for me to consider any kind of move.”

The Scotsman was clearly bored of such transfer stories and rumours, “It is tiring, I have to sit here and deny players leaving. No offers have come in so I don’t know why I have to say that. I could be spending this time in a better way, preparing a training session? Or having a cup of tea and lying on the couch.”

Printable version Send to a friend Share Clip Contact us Article history

[shanghai_nobody]

Baldini joins Arsenal backroom staff

Mark Cook has brought in his first new addition to the backroom staff, since Arsene Wenger left the entire backroom staff have remained loyal but Cook has brought in Franco Baldini to bolster the first team coaching staff.

Baldini moved to England with Fabio Capello to take the assistant manager role within the national team. The Italian stated his desire to be involved in club football and seen Arsenal as his ideal club, Chelsea and Manchester United were both interested in signing the Italian.

“Arsenal were the club for me, I love their brand of football and I’d like to be part of that. Mark is a young manager and talking to him I get very excited, I like his ideas and I want to help him take Arsenal forward.”

Baldini will remain as part of the national squad but his dayjob will be with Arsenal, “I went in to watch the training session today, the squad is so impressive right down to the youngsters. I can’t wait till tomorrow when I’ll be out there working with the players.”

Cook has stated that the experience brought to the club by Baldini will be a huge help, Baldini has had stints in the backroom at Roma and Real Madrid. “He’s a hugely experienced coach and scout, he’ll be a huge addition to an already impressive back room. I’m a rookie manager and bringing in experience like this is fantastic for me.

“His eye for talent is something I’ll be hoping to use, while he is such a motivational figure his passion for the game is infectious and the players will thrive on that.”

[Saturday, 08th August, 2009]

[Number 1]

shanghai_nobody, on 20 December 2009 - 06:54 PM, said:

I'm not sure if you mean as in layouts, because I've used six diff ones in this story already. As for twists and so on I'm not huge on them in FM stories, I'm a simple being I just like to read stories with info about the team and matches. I know it isn't everyones cuppa but can't please everyone. Hope you keep reading anyway.

Indeed. I'm liking what I'm reading so far.

Personally I prefer to alternate depending on my story. Some types, like my current story, I do this style while others, like a Newcastle story I have planned for FM2010, will use a more story or diary-style.

[shanghai_nobody]

Page last updated at 14:00 GMT, Friday, 14 August 2009
N'Koulou joins Arsenal

Nicolas N’Koulou has become the third new signing at Arsenal, again Cook has opted for young promising talent after bringing in the versatile 19 year old from AS Monaco for £4.7million.

N’Koulou is at home in the centre of defence, right back, central midfield and as a defensive midfielder. “His talent is such that he is at home in so many positions, in watching him I see him as a central defender and he’ll be a very good one in the future.

“I signed him as a central defender and that is where I will play him, that is the position where we will get the best out of him.”
Cook highlight that despite his relative small stature for a central defender at just 5’11” he has great ability, “He’s very like William Gallas, he is fast and powerful, he is a great tackler and great at marking his man. Nicolas is brave and composed on the ball, he’s the perfect central defender for this club and the style of football we play.”

Nicolas became Cook’s number one target after Arsenal failed to tempt PSG to part with Mamadou Sakho, the Cameron born defender played 24 games for Monaco last season which hints he could slip into the first team at Arsenal. “Last season was his first season as a first team starter, he still has a lot to learn but he does have experience. I wouldn’t worry about throwing him into the first team. If he shows me in training that he deserves to be picked then he will be.”

The Cameroon defender signed at four year deal today netting him £9,000 a week, “I know I was a first team choice at Monaco but I won’t be here, I still feel it is a huge and important move for me.

“At Arsenal I am working with better coaches and get to use better facilities, if I do play it will be in a fantastic stadium and in front of 60,000 fans. I’m over the moon with this move, Arsenal are a beautiful team to watch and I feel I will fit in perfectly here.”

Parallels were drawn to Gallas once again by the defender himself, “Gallas is someone I look up to. He’s a fantastic player and I feel we are very similar, in training I’ll be following him closely because I feel it will improve me as a player.”

Fans have been confused at the lack of a more experienced central defender being brought in, Cook justified his move today “We did try to bring in a few experienced defenders, the simple fact is we couldn’t afford them. We put bids in, big ones but they weren’t enough to tempt the clubs.”

The players in question are thought to be Mamadou Sakho and Philippe Mexes, “We do have Senderos back and I think he has something to offer. He’s been unfairly hounded, he was young and learning. He’s very tall and strong and I think that is what we need. Nicolas is another great addition and he may take a season to break in but it will be worth it.”