Morning Scrimmage: Donovan with Munich, Buffon out until 2009 & More

Donovan on trial with Bayern Munich

Landon Donovan has pulled a Beckham. Bayern Munich's website reported this morning that the withdrawn striker has flown to Germany and will be on a 10-day trial with the team to keep himself in playing shape.

Bayern Munich coach Jurgen Klinnsman, who has a home in California, is no stranger to Donovan's skill-set as he pursued the signing of the American during last summer's transfer window. But Donovan was in the midst of the MLS season then, and wasn't as adamant about making a move to Europe as he is now.

This is an interesting development and something to keep close tabs on in the coming weeks.

Buffon's recovery delayed until 2009

Gianluigi Buffon's recovery from a leg muscle injury, suffered on Oct. 5, has been postponed a month. The Juventus goalkeeper was expecting to return to action in December, but further examination of the injury revealed that he needs extra time off.

"It's a little more serious than expected," said the Italian international. "I still have to recover physically, but I should be ready for 2009."

Buffon is now targeting a January 11 return against Siena.

Julio Cruz on the move?

The Gazzetta dello Sport is reporting that Argentine striker Julio Cruz may be on his way out of Inter Milan sooner than expected. Cruz's contract expires after this current season and it appears that Inter does not seem interested in resigning the 34-year-old striker.

Head coach Jose Mourinho has had issues with Cruz as of late, stating that the forward is not a team player. These words have fueled the rumors that Cruz, who has scored crucial goals in Inter's last two matches, could be leaving Inter during the winter transfer window.

The reports are linking Cruz to either surprisingly struggling AS Roma or Spanish giants, Barcelona. Don't be too surprised if you see the Argentine heavily pursuing a move in January, as he still has dreams of playing for the albiceleste in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.


Think Donovan's "trial" is more than just a trial? How do you think Juventus will do without Buffon until mid-January? Do you feel that Cruz is a selfish player? Express your feelings in the comment box below.