Ballack staying with Bayern
(China Daily)
Updated: 2005-08-05 06:06

BERLIN: Germany captain Michael Ballack on Wednesday put an end to rumours that he might join Manchester United by saying he had had discussions with his club Bayern Munich and was not in talks with other teams.

"I spoke with Bayern and it was a good discussion. That is where things stand. I haven't spoken with anyone else, nor do I want to," Ballack said.

The midfielder, named Germany's player of the year for a third time last week, said he wanted to concentrate with Bundesliga favourites Bayern.

Ballack denied reports that the club had given him a deadline by which to decide whether to extend his contract, which runs until July 2006.

The club are doing all they can to get Ballack to stay on.

"No one has spoken about a deadline. On the contrary, I have been told to take my time thinking things over and that the club would be happy if I decided to extend my contract," he said.

British newspaper The Guardian said earlier this week that Manchester United had lined up Ballack to join them next season. However the German's agent has since quashed such rumours.

(China Daily 08/05/2005 page15)

Close

China draw nil with Japan in women's soccer Veteran Agassi braces 60th title Argentina beat Puerto Rico 86-79

Today's Top News     Top Sports News
Exchange rate range to adjust at proper time         Six-Party Talks to continue today         Hospitals overcharge patients for profits         China, US to jointly oppose UN expansion         Fuel rationing to cope with shortage         Typhoon approaches coastal provinces	Beckham to sign new Real Madrid contract: report       China held 2-2 draw with Japan       Barcelona hit Chinese champions for nine       Zidane returning to French national team       Figo set to join Inter Milan - Report       Heat acquire Walker in five-team, 13-player trade