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    ‘Leaving Man Utd works wonders’ – Fans love Antony’s wild Real Betis celebrations as he goes topless and waves huge flag

    MANCHESTER UNITED flop Antony celebrated wildly as he helped Real Betis make it six league wins in a row.The Brazilian joined the Spanish side on loan during the winter transfer window.Antony celebrated Real Betis winning the Seville derby by waving the club’s flag aroundCredit: GettyThe win also marked six league wins in a rowCredit: GettyOne of Antony’s team-mates said the club need to ‘crowdfund’ to sign him permanentlyCredit: EPAAfter failing to impress across two-and-a-half years at Man Utd following an £86million move from Ajax, Antony has found a new lease of life with Real.The 25-year-old has scored four goals and assisted four in 12 games. His performances have earned him widespread praise.But after playing the full match in a 2-1 win over Sevilla to ensure his side won the Seville derby, it was what he did after the game which really caught the eye.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAs fans celebrated a sixth La Liga win on the bounce by staying behind at the Villamarin Stadium, Antony was seen waving the club’s flag around.The winger had taken his top off while doing so.Later on he was lifted up by goalkeeper Adrian, who joined the club for free last summer after leaving Liverpool.Speaking after the game, Antony’s team-mate Isco urged the club to do all they could to land him and even joked they should do some “crowdfunding”.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThe former Real Madrid star said: “We need to do crowdfunding or something so that Antony can stay at least one more year. “He has surprised us with the humility he’s brought.”Ex-Man Utd star Memphis Depay sparks mass brawl with cheeky trick as four red cards are handed out in derby clash Fans reacting to Antony’s topless flag waving on social media said: “I’m crying with Antony, this guy… I hope he stays at Betis.” A second said: “Just look at how happy Antony is. Leaving United really works wonders for players.”A third added: “AURA.”Another said: “Passion like that could power the whole stadium!”Real Betis chiefs hinted in February that Antony’s deal could be extended beyond this summer.There is no transfer clause in the deal which took Antony to Spain from Manchester, but the club are covering a portion of his £105,000 a week wages.However, sporting director Manu Fajardo has now outlined the club will likely need to qualify for the Champions League to be able to afford Antony.He said: “In Betis’ sporting department, we work on ‘devalued’ players, analysing data from players who have reached very high moments and peaks, but who for various reasons have significantly decreased their performance.”We are concerned about their situation and speak with major clubs. In his case, we were able to anticipate and convince the player, and his entourage. “Today, Antony is performing immediately from minute one in the squad.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We haven’t lost our enthusiasm, we can’t rule out anything in football and hopefully Real Betis will remain in the top European positions to benefit his continuity and the arrival of other great players.”The club currently sit sixth in La Liga, six points off of the top four.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More

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    F1 2025 rule changes: What has the FIA altered for the new season?

    FORMULA ONE is getting ready to celebrate 75 years of the sport – with SEVEN new rule changes for fans ahead of the new season.Lewis Hamilton’s first season at Ferrari will also see a handful of new rule changes, as he prepares to win an eighth world title.Formula One has introduced new rules for the new seasonCredit: gettyRookie drivers such as Kimi Antonelli will benefit from the rule changesCredit: gettyRookie drivers will be happy with the new rules, with the rules seeing them get more time in the car and on the track.The biggest rule change ahead of the new season will see drivers UNABLE to score an extra point if they are the fastest driver on the grid.The rule had before been used as a tactic, with Daniel Ricciardo scoring the point during his final race to deny Lando Norris a Grand Slam weekend.The Sao Paulo 2024 Grand Prix has also enforced a rule change, with the qualifying session unable to even get going during Saturday’s wet weather conditions last season.Read more F1 newsSunSport has everything you need to know about the rule changes ahead of the 2025 season.What rules have changed ahead of 2025?1 – Removal of the fastest lap pointThe biggest rule change for 2025 is the elimination of the fastest lap points. The rule had been implemented in 2019, and it meant that a driver could score an extra point if they finished a lap in the quickest time, if they were inside the top ten of the final classification.Most read in MotorsportIf a driver finished a lap the fastest outside the top ten, then they would still earn the fastest lap title, but would not earn any points. 2 – Driver cooling systemsThe F1 calendar takes drivers all around the world, sometimes to extremely hot climates such as Saudi Arabia.The FIA can now declare a “Heat Hazard” if a weather forecast predicts temperatures to rise to 31C or above, which will lead to an increase in the weight limit of cars.Cars will be allowed an extra 2kg of weight for Practice, Qualifying and Sprint Qualifying sessions, and an extra 5kg for a Sprint or a Grand Prix.3 – Limits on testing old carsThe rules on Testing of Previous Car (TPC) regulations already changed a year ago, as new rules stated teams must test parts that had run during a race weekend at least once.Teams can remain to carry out up to 20 days of TPC testing, but their race drivers are only allowed to take part in four days, during which they cannot exceed 1000km driven. McLaren has showcased the benefit of TPC testing, allowing Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri to go back on track in their car from last season ahead of the new season testing.It also offers a huge advantage for younger drivers, who can go out into F1 regulation cars and get prepared to head out into practice sessions. 4 – More running time for rookiesIn F1, a rookie is described as someone who had not completed two F1 Grands Prix.It has been a rule since 2022 that each team must run a rookie in each of their cars – twice in total – over the course of a season.Teams usually chose to fill this time during FP1.However, in 2025 the rule will double, meaning at least twice per season in each car, a rookie must run for at least one session.5 – Stricter restrictions on DRS designs and wing deflectionsThe Drag Reduction System (DRS) essentially allows teams to open their rear wing and reduce downforce, allowing the car to travel at a faster speed.The DRS system is activated when a car is within a second to the car in front of it, and is in one of the designated “DRS zones” on a track.Teams have been able to design a “mini-DRS” concept, in which the rear wing tilts backwards when travelling at fast speeds.The new restrictions look to eliminate this by defining the state of deployment and restriction to only two position: open and closed.6 – Changes to qualifying classificationsThe Sao Paulo Grand Prix in 2024 saw qualifying pushed back so far that it essentially happened as a prelude to the race on the Sunday, rather than happening the day prior. The first change states that if the stewards deem the qualifying session unsafe to take place, the race classification order will be based on the Drivers’ Championship classification.Moreover, if one session of a qualifying takes place (Q1), but Q2 and Q3 takes places will multiple drivers not setting a time, they will be ranked based on who set the fastest lap in the prior session.For example, if Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton both start a flying lap in Q3, but there is a red flag that ends the session, the two will be ranked based on which car was faster in Q2.7 – A mule car tyre testThis will change the end-of-season testing in Abu Dhabi. While one car can be allowed to be driven as usual by a driver who has started no more than two Grands Prix, the second car must be used to test tyres for 2026.The tyres will be a different dimension and specification in 2026, and teams will need to test them during their end-of-season testing. Full race scheduleRound One – AustraliaPractice one – Fri, Mar 14, 1:30am GMTPractice two – Fri, Mar 14, 5am GMTPractice three – Sat, Mar 15, 1:30am GMTQualifying – Sat, Mar 15, 5am GMTRace – Sun, Mar 16, 4am GMTWinner – Lando NorrisRound Two – China – Sprint weekendPractice one – Fri, Mar 21, 3:30am GMTSprint Qualifying – Fri, Mar 21, 7:30am GMTSprint – Sat, Mar 22, 3am GMTQualifying – Sat, Mar 22, 7am GMTRace – Sun, Mar 23, 7am GMTWinner – Oscar PiastriRound Three – JapanPractice one – Fri, Apr 4, 3:30am BSTPractice two – Fri, Apr 4, 7am BSTPractice three – Sat, Apr 5, 3:30am BSTQualifying – Sat, Apr 5, 7am BSTRace – Sun, Apr 6, 6am BSTRound Four – Bahrain Practice one – Fri, Apr 11, 12:30pm BSTPractice two – Fri, Apr 11, 4pm BSTPractice three – Sat, Apr 12, 1:30pm BSTQualifying – Sat, Apr 12, 5pm BSTRace – Sun, Apr 13, 4pm BSTRound Five – Saudi ArabiaPractice one – Fri, Apr 18, 2:30pm BSTPractice two – Fri, Apr 18, 6pm BSTPractice three – Sat, Apr 19, 2:30pm BSTQualifying – Sat, Apr 19, 6pm BSTRace – Sun, Apr 20, 6pm BSTRound Six – Miami – Sprint weekendPractice one – Fri, May 2, 5:30pm BSTSprint Qualifying- Fri, May 2 , 9:30pm BSTSprint – Sat, May 3, 5pm BSTQualifying – Sat, May 3, 9pm BSTRace – Sun, May 4, 9pm BSTRound Seven – Emilia-RomagnaPractice one – Fri, May 16, 12:30pm BSTPractice two – Fri, May 16, 4pm BSTPractice three – Sat, May 17, 11:30pm BSTQualifying – Sat, May 17, 3pm BSTRace – Sun, May 18, 2pm BSTRound Eight – MonacoPractice one – Fri, May 23, 12:30pm BSTPractice two – Fri, May 23, 4pm BSTPractice three – Sat, May 24, 11:30pm BSTQualifying – Sat, May 24, 3pm BSTRace – Sun, May 25, 2pm BSTRound Nine – SpainPractice one – Fri, May 30, 12:30pm BSTPractice two – Fri, May 30, 4pm BSTPractice three – Sat, May 31, 11:30pm BSTQualifying – Sat, May 31, 3pm BSTRace – Sun, Jun 1, 2pm BSTRound Ten – CanadaPractice one – Fri, Jun 13, 6:30pm BSTPractice two – Fri, Jun 13, 10pm BSTPractice three – Sat, Jun 14, 5:30pm BSTQualifying – Sat, Jun 14, 9pm BSTRace – Sun, Jun 15, 7pm BSTRound 11 – Austria Practice one – Fri, Jun 27, 12:30pm BSTPractice two – Fri, Jun 27, 4pm BSTPractice three – Sat, Jun 28, 11:30pm BSTQualifying – Sat, Jun 28, 3pm BSTRace – Sat, Jun 29, 2pm BSTRound 12 – SilverstonePractice one – Fri, Jul 4, 12:30pm BSTPractice two – Fri, Jul 4, 4pm BSTPractice three – Sat, Jul 5, 11:30pm BSTQualifying – Sat, Jul 5, 3pm BSTRace – Sun, Jul 6, 3pm BSTRound 13 – Belgium – Sprint weekendPractice one – Fri, Jul 25, 11:30pm BSTSprint Qualifying – Fri, Jul 25, 3:30pm BSTSprint – Sat, Jul 26 , 11am BSTQualifying – Sat, Jul 26, 3pm BST Race – Sun, Jul 27, 2pm BSTRound 14 – HungaryPractice one – Fri, Aug 1, 12:30pm BSTPractice two – Fri, Aug 1, 4pm BSTPractice three – Sat, Aug 2, 11:30am BSTQualifying – Sat, Aug 2, 3pm BSTRace – Sun, Aug 3, 2pm BSTRound 15 – NetherlandsPractice one – Fri, Aug 29, 11:30am BSTPractice two – Fri, Aug 29, 3pm BSTPractice three – Sat, Aug 30, 10:30am BSTQualifying – Sat, Aug 30, 2pm BSTRace – Sun, Aug 31, 2pm BSTRound 16 – ItalyPractice one – Fri, Sep 7, 12:30pm BSTPractice two – Fri, Sep 7, 4pm BSTPractice three – Sat, Sep 8, 11:30am BSTQualifying – Sat, Sep 8, 3pm BSTRace – Sun, Sep 9, 2pm BSTRound 17 – AzerbaijanPractice one – Fri, Sep 19, 9:30am BSTPractice two – Fri, Sep 19, 1pm BSTPractice three – Sat, Sep 20, 9:30am BSTQualifying – Sat, Sep 20, 1pm BSTRace – Sun, Sep 21, 12pm BSTRound 18 – Singapore Practice one – Fri, Oct 3, 10:30am BSTPractice two – Fri, Oct 3, 2pm BSTPractice three – Sat, Oct 4, 10:30am BSTQualifying – Sat, Oct 4, 2pm BSTRace – Sun, Oct 5, 1pm BSTRound 19 – United States – Sprint weekendPractice one – Fri, Oct 17, 6:30pm BSTSprint Qualifying – Fri, Oct 17, 10:30pm BSTSprint – Sat, Oct 18, 6pm BSTQualifying – Sat, Oct 18, 10pm BSTRace – Sun, Oct 19, 8pm BSTRound 20 – MexicoPractice one – Fri, Oct 24, 7:30pm BSTPractice two – Fri, Oct 24, 11pm BSTPractice three – Sat, Oct 25, 6:30pm BSTQualifying – Sat, Oct 25, 10pm BSTRace – Sun, Oct 26, 8pm GMTRound 21 – Brazil – Sprint weekendPractice one – Fri, Nov 7, 2:30pm GMTSprint Qualifying – Fri, Nov 7, 6:30pm GMTSprint – Sat, Nov 8, 2pm GMTQualifying – Sat, Nov 8, 6pm GMTRace – Sun, Nov 9, 5pm GMTRound 22 – Las Vegas Practice one – Fri, Nov 20, 12:30am GMTPractice two – Fri, Nov 20, 4am GMTPractice three – Sat, Nov 21, 12:30am GMTQualifying – Sat, Nov 21, 4am GMTRace – Sun, Nov 22, 4am GMTREAD MORE SUN STORIESRound 23 – Qatar – Sprint weekendPractice one – Fri, Nov 28, 1:30pm GMTSprint Qualifying – Fri, Nov 28, 5:30pm GMTSprint – Sat, Nov 29, 2pm GMTQualifying – Sat, Nov 29, 6pm GMTRace – Sun, Nov 30, 4pm GMTRound 24 – Abu Dhabi Practice one – Fri, Dec 5, 9:30am GMTPractice two – Fri, Dec 5, 1pm GMTPractice three – Sat, Dec 6, 10:30am GMTQualifying – Sat, Dec 6, 2pm GMTRace – Sun, Dec 7, 1pm GMT More

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    Newcastle star targets emulating Dan Burn after Carabao Cup heroics and eyes England World Cup dream under Thomas Tuchel

    JACOB MURPHY is dreaming of being the next one of Eddie Howe’s Newcastle stars to make their England breakthrough.Carabao Cup Final goalscoring hero Dan Burn, 32, was the latest Toon player to make their Three Lions bow.Jacob Murphy has another huge goal in his sights after Newcastle’s cup successCredit: GettyToon star Dan Burn has just made his England debutCredit: GettyAnthony Gordon, Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento have all become internationals under the guidance of Howe at St James’ over the past year.And now winger Murphy hopes his form can catch the eye of Thomas Tuchel ahead of next year’s World Cup.Murphy said: “That’s a conversation me and coach Graeme Jones have been having for a number of seasons. Just got to keep putting in performances and they’re always casting an eye out on all the English players.“To see Dan get his call up was amazing. It does give you that extra motivation to know that it really is possible.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“We’ve got Gordy, Lewis Hall, Tino and when you’re kicking it with them every week you know what you have to offer, you think there’s every chance in the future.“I keep my head down and – you know – I’ve just won a Cup with Newcastle so who’s to say no to getting a call-up?”Murphy has played for England across four youth age groups, with his last involvement in the under-21 Euros in 2017.This term he has produced eight assists and five goals in the Premier League and, crucially, also provided the knockdown for Alexander Isak to score the winner over Liverpool at Wembley.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAfter being part of the side that finally ended a 70-year wait for major silverware, the attacker believes the Toon Army will have a lot more to celebrate under Howe.After celebrating on Saturday in front of an estimated 300,000 Geordies at a bus parade and on stage at the Town Moor, he said: “I think the Newcastle fans, the council, everyone’s probably gonna have to get used to this.Eddie Howe ‘hungry for more’ silverware as he celebrates Newcastle’s success “We always knew that the specialness was in being the first and to be on that bus, knowing that we were the first in so long to do it, makes it even more special.“I didn’t know there were that many people in Newcastle. You drive these streets daily, weekly, but then to see them full of people is something that you can’t really put into words. It looked unbelievable.“As a club we want to be doing that every season. Now, without putting too much pressure on ourselves, we’ve set a level and that’s what we have to be aiming for and striving for every season.“Granted, it’s not going to happen every year because wonderful teams up and down the country are going to make it difficult for us, but these are moments that now that we’ve got a taste for it we want it again.“We spoke about it so much being the first. Now that the club’s on this trajectory, I think titles, accomplishments like this will be happening more frequently.”Despite the huge party and two weeks of celebrations since the Wembley win, it is finally back to business.Newcastle host Brentford on Wednesday in the Premier League – the first of ten remaining matches that sixth-placed Toon have to try and secure Champions League qualification.Murphy, who signed from Norwich for £12m back in 2017, added: “That’s the aim. We’ve got ten huge games coming up. READ MORE SUN STORIES“Although this is lovely and we’re taking it in, I think that secretly, in the back of everybody’s mind, is that there’s 30 points to get and we need to try our best.“We might have already got some sort of European football, but we want the big dog.”How ‘big angel’ Joelinton rescued boss after he fainted in SubwayNEWCASTLE cult hero Joelinton rescued his old boss after he fainted in Subway.And coach Pellegrino Matarazzo still calls the Brazilian his ‘angel’.Matarazzo was Joelinton assistant manager during the midfielder’s spell in Germany with Hoffenheim.Recalling the scary incident, the Matarazzo revealed: “I was standing in the queue and I wasn’t feeling well.“I tried to go over to the Coca-Cola machine to quickly get a drink.”I realised I was about to faint, and I did faint.“When I opened my eyes I saw Joelinton! ‘Rino, Rino, are you okay?'”He was like a small, no a big, angel – Joelinton, what are you doing here?”Read the full story… More

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    Surprising reason why tall footballer are more likely to receive yellow cards, according to experts

    REFEREES are more likely to dish out yellow cards to footie players who are taller than them, experts have found.And they reckon it is a classic case of “short man syndrome”.Referees are more likely to dish out yellow cards to footie players who are taller than them, experts revealedCredit: GettyPlayers taller than the referee have 9.4 per cent more fouls given against them and are 7.2 per cent more likely to get a card.Players who are shorter are 12.3 per cent less likely to be done for a foul and 16.5 per cent less likely to get a yellow.The team at Germany’s University of Hagen ­analysed 2,340 games in the Bundesliga.They said: “This bias is consistent with the ­Napoleon complex, where shorter individuals show compensatory behaviours for lacking social dominance through height.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLFrench general ­Napoleon, only 5ft 6in, told a rival: “You may be taller, but I am greater.”Earlier in the week Premier League referees’ huge pay packets were revealed – and it showed they are among the country’s top earners.Their salaries appeared to reflect their growing status in the game and the increasing pressure they are under every week as billions watch worldwide.Figures provided by chief refereeing officer Howard Webb in a meeting of the 72 EFL clubs revealed what kind of money the Prem’s officials are pocketing, as reported by The Times.Most read in FootballThey showed that the average salary for a Premier League referee is between £170,000 and £180,000.While the top referees are earning around £250,000 per year.Never-before-seen moment in English football as referee speaks to crowd to confirm why Spurs goal ruled out vs LiverpoolOfficials are paid their salary at a base rate, which is then boosted by performance bonuses and match fees.That base rate ranges between £72,000 and £148,000, and varies according to experience and seniority in the role.Senior officials, such as Anthony Taylor and Michael Oliver, are likely to earn around £250,000 a year from their Premier League roles.6ft7inch striker Peter Crouch, pictured with Stephen Gerrard, would be more likely to get booked than a smaller player, experts say More

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    Arsenal to battle Man Utd for £50m Viktor Gyokeres transfer as new chief Andrea Berta compiles four-man striker wishlist

    ARSENAL’s new sporting director Andrea Berta has added Manchester United target Viktor Gyokeres to his four-man striker wishlist ahead of a huge summer rebuild.And the former Atletico Madrid chief has vowed he will help bring “major trophies” to the Emirates.Arsenal’s new sporting director Andrea Berta (left) is already getting to workCredit: GettyThe Italian helped turn Atletico Madrid into LaLiga title contendersCredit: GettyViktor Gyokeres is a target for the Gunners in the summerCredit: GettyBenjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig is also on Berta’s radarCredit: GettyBerta, 53, replaces Edu following his resignation last November.He is expected to attend the Gunners’ Premier League clash at home to Fulham on Tuesday. The Italian, who left his role at Atletico in January, will be tasked with bringing in an elite No 9.There’s a crucial summer ahead for Mikel Arteta’s men as Arsenal try to win a first Prem title since 2003-04.READ MORE ON ARSENALSunSport revealed last week that Arsenal are eyeing up Eintracht Frankfurt hitman Hugo Ekitike as an alternative to £150m-rated Newcastle star Alexander Isak.Isak has enjoyed a stunning season in the North East, netting in the Carabao Cup final and scoring 19 times in the league.The Swede, 25, remains contracted to Newcastle until 2028 with no release clause in his current deal.But the Toon have no intention of selling Isak and want to build a team around him. Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKEkitike has caught the eye of a number of Prem clubs, with the Gunners at the head of the queue. Frankfurt are expected to demand around £60m for the striker, who boasts 19 goals this season.’Captain on and off the pitch’ – Fans love Arsenal star Martin Odegaard’s classy gesture on international dutyThe Gunners have also been linked with Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig but now Sporting’s Gyokeres is in their sights too.Slovenian international Sesko has a £59m release clause in his contract, while Gyokeres remains one of Europe’s hottest properties.The ex-Coventry striker has 85 goals and 26 assists in 92 games for Sporting Lisbon.But there could be competition from Manchester United for his signature, where he would enjoy a reunion with ex-Sporting boss Ruben Amorim.Gyokeres is understood to have a release clause in the region of £50m.Berta could try and raise funds for a summer spree by offloading squad players like Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko.Arsenal announce Andrea Berta appointmentARSENAL unveiled Andrea Berta as their new sporting director with the Italian vowing to “shape a successful future with a great team” at the Gunners.Berta, 53, replaces former sporting director Edu following his resignation last November, with the Brazilian set to take up a new role in Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’ multi-club model.Ahead of a crucial summer for Mikel Arteta’s men, Berta is now tasked with bringing an elite No.9 to the Emirates, as well as negotiating contract renewals for key stars as Arsenal bid to win a first Prem title since 2004.And Berta – who left a similar post at Atletico Madrid in January – said: “I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club.“I have watched with great interest the way Arsenal has evolved in recent years and I have admired the hard work that has gone into reestablishing the club as a major force in European football with a passionate following around the world.“The club has great values and a rich history, and I am looking forward to playing my part in shaping a successful future with a great team.“I cannot wait to get started in my new role and I am really looking forward to experiencing my first game at Emirates Stadium together with our supporters.”Co-owner Josh Kroenke added: “Anyone who knows football knows Andrea is an impressive figure. He has vast knowledge of the game, a great track record, a strong network and an insatiable desire to build winning teams.“Andrea will be a great addition to our club. He understands our values and what we stand for and we have no doubt he will help us push on and take the next steps in our bid to win major trophies.“We undertook a thorough recruitment process and we were hugely impressed with the level of all the other candidates, but it was Andrea’s experience and the success he has enjoyed that stood out.“We are really looking forward to working together and welcoming him into the Arsenal family.”Arsenal’s co-chairman Josh Kroenke said: “Andrea will help us push on  and take the next steps in our bid to win major trophies.”He has vast knowledge, a great track record, a strong network and a desire to build winning teams.”Berta will also target contract renewals for stars Bukayo Saka, William  Saliba, Gabriel and Gabriel Martinelli, whose deals expire in June 2027.The Gunners’ new man said: “I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club.”He arrives after the departure of Brazilian Edu, who is ready to take up a new role in Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’ multi-club model.READ MORE SUN STORIESBerta spent 12 years with Atletico in the Spanish capital. He played a key role in building squads that won La Liga in 2014 and 2021 and the 2018 Europa League.Newcastle have no intention of selling star man Alexander IsakCredit: GettyHugo Ekitike is also being monitored by the GunnersCredit: AFP More

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    ‘I’ve made it clear’ – Matheus Cunha confirms plan to leave Wolves with Arsenal and Man Utd circling

    MATHEUS  CUNHA  confirmed he wants to quit Wolves so he can “take the next step and fight for big titles”.The Brazil forward, 25, was the subject of strong January interest from Arsenal.Matheus Cunha revealed he wants to leave Wolves in the summerCredit: GettyChelsea, Tottenham and Nottingham Forest also wanted to sign the star while Manchester United are interested, too.However, not only did he stay put at Molineux – but he also signed a new contract.The fresh four-and-a-half deal tied Cunha down in the West Midlands until 2029. However, it also reportedly included a £62.5million release clause. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd now Cunha has openly confessed what SunSport reported in January – that he wants out of the club when the transfer market reopens in the summer.Cunha’s 13 Premier League goals look set to be enough to help keep Wolves in the division – unless Leicester or Ipswich can produce a remarkable turnaround to avoid relegation.And with his work all-but complete, the Selecao star is ready to start challenging at the right end of the table – after staying put in January.He told the Guardian: “I had a lot of offers but I wouldn’t feel well if I had done it.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Some things you can’t control but I couldn’t leave the club in the middle of the season, in a difficult situation, in the relegation zone.”Now, we’re close to achieving our goal [of staying up]. Wolves forward Matheus Cunha faces trial over ‘driving blunder'”But I’ve made it clear that I need to take the next step. “I want to fight for titles, for big things. I have potential.”Cunha arrived at Wolves from Atletico Madrid in 2023, initially on loan before securing a £44m transfer. The former Sion, RB Leipzig and Hertha Berlin attacker is yet to win a trophy in club football.However, with Brazil, he did win the 2019 Toulon Tournament and then secure an Olympic gold medal at the Tokyo Games in 2021. But his incredible talent is not limited to the football pitch – for Cunha can speak six languages fluently: Portuguese, English, Italian, French, German and Spanish. ‘WOLVES GAVE ME JOY’And despite his clear ability, Cunha is candid in his acknowledgement he – like all young men – needs a loving, supportive environment in order to thrive. He added: “Sometimes all we want in life is affection. “People think we have everything, but we’re human beings, too. We need a bit of understanding – we have our difficulties. “Wolves gave me that joy back. The fans [have given] me a lot. “The status I have today, the player I am now and the happiness I’m feeling, it’s because of them. I’m really grateful to Wolves.”I love learning, but I don’t like the football life. The football life deprives you of a lot. “I left home and have been living off football since I was 13. READ MORE SUN STORIES”Maybe when I stop, I’ll be a bit calmer and can think about coaching. “But I’ll need to take a few years off to rest, get my head round it and live like a normal person for a while. I need to live a different life.”The Brazil international speaks six languages fluentlyCredit: AFP More

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    Man Utd slash ticket prices for Manchester derby after fans refused to pay top dollar to watch Ruben Amorim’s flops

    MANCHESTER UNITED have slashed ticket prices for next Sunday’s derby against City at Old Trafford after fans refused to pay to watch Ruben Amorim’s struggling side.United were lashed by fans’ groups earlier this season for hiking prices for members to attend home games to a minimum of £66 — and removing all concessions for kids and OAPs.Man Utd have slashed ticket prices for Manchester derby next weekendCredit: PAFans’ group 1958 have arranged a protest at the price hikes at next week’s derbyCredit: RexFans have been urged to stage a “sit-in” by staying in their seats following the final whistle against Pep Guardiola’s sideUnited fans remain deeply unhappy with the club for increasing tickets prices since Sir Jim Ratcliffe took charge of football operationsCredit: PATickets for the City game did not sell out at those prices, so United reverted to the cheaper rate.United – 13th in the Prem – put tickets back on sale last week.Members able to buy seats at the reduced rate of £40 – and £25 for concessions.And the game is now expected to be a sell-out.READ MORE ON MAN UTDFuture home Prem matches are also available to members on the club’s website for less than the minimum £66 price.United fans remain deeply unhappy with the club for increasing tickets prices since Sir Jim Ratcliffe took charge of the football operation at Old Trafford last year.As well as increasing the price of match-day tickets for fans during the season the cost of season tickets for next year has also gone up.And to make matters worse long-standing season-ticket holders have been kicked out of their prime spots on the halfway line so the club can charge more for hospitality tickets.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordFans’ group 1958 have arranged a protest at the price hikes at next week’s derby.Supporters have been urged to stage a “sit-in” by staying in their seats following the final whistle against Pep Guardiola’s side.’Silence is deafening’ – Man Utd fans ready to protest at Arsenal clash and vow to ‘rise again to defend our club’Steve Crompton, a spokesman for The 1958, said: “I think probably one of the most impactful [protests] we’ve done was the sit-in.”We will be running another one of those against City next weekend.”The last Old Trafford sit-in was in August 2023, when thousands of fans stayed behind in the stadium following a comeback win against Nottingham Forest.Thousands of United fans protested ahead of Arsenal’s visit to Old Trafford earlier this month.And members of the 1958 joined forces with FC United fans at the club’s Broadhurst Park on Saturday.The Glazer family takeover was the catalyst for the foundation of FC United in 2005, with disgruntled fans leaving Old Trafford behind to form a new club.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe 1958 joined FCUM in their stand against the ownership and current situation around United as part of the first ‘United United Day’ in six years.Fans linked up in the stands at a Northern Premier League match against Stockton Town.Man Utd ratings vs LeicesterMANCHESTER UNITED leapfrogged Tottenham into 13th in the Premier League by beating Leicester.Rasmus Hojlund was left to run in behind and shoot low into the bottom corner from an angle to open the scoring on 28 minutes.The Danish striker had not found the net since December 12 – a run of 21 matches.Alejandro Garnacho saw a goal chalked off for offside but there was no taking his snap-shot finish off him on 67 minutes.And skipper Bruno Fernandes rounded off the comfortable 3-0 win in style in the closing stages.Here’s how SunSport’s Graham Hill rated the Man Utd stars. More

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    Erling Haaland leaves Bournemouth in protective boot and on crutches in major scare for Man City after FA Cup injury

    ERLING HAALAND has sparked injury concern after leaving the Vitality Stadium in a protective boot.The Manchester City superstar was on target as Pep Guardiola’s men booked their place in the FA Cup semi-finals.Erling Haaland was forced off with an injury against BournemouthCredit: GettyThe City superstar was later snapped leaving the Vitality Stadium in a protective bootCredit: TikTokThe striker had earlier netted levelled the scores in a 2-1 winCredit: TikTokHaaland, 24, netted early in the second half after missing a penalty during the opening 45 minutes.He limped out of the game on the hour mark after appearing to suffer an ankle injury.The Norweigan attempted to play on through the knock. But he was in too much discomfort to continue, with Omar Marmoush replacing him from the bench. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHaaland was later pictured leaving the stadium with a large protective boot over his left leg.He needed crutches to reach the team bus, casting doubt on his fitness ahead of the run-in.When asked about the seriousness of the injury, Guardiola said: “I don’t know yet.”I saw him on the massage table but I didn’t speak with him or the doctors. We will have to see.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKHaaland missed two games with a knee injury earlier this campaign but has otherwise been in lethal goal-scoring form.He has 21 goals in 28 Premier League games, along with 8 in 9 in European competition. Inside Man City’s £300MILLION new stadium upgrade with futuristic Etihad project to rival AnfieldCity’s 2-1 comeback win kept their season alive with the FA Cup still up for grabs as potential silverware. Guardiola’s side have endured a miserable campaign, failing to defend their Premier League title and already out of the Champions League. January signing Marmoush proved to be the match-winner on Sunday, netting with his first touch off the bench. The Egpytian bundled in to complete a spirited comeback for City, who had gone behind thanks to a strike from Evanilson. City are heading to the revamped Club World Cup this summer, with Guardiola hoping to put a 2024/25 firmly behind him.Haaland was replaced in the 61st minute by Omar MarmoushCredit: APThe Egyptian netted the winner with his first touchCredit: GettyAnd the Spaniard claims his squad wouldn’t deserve the £100million prize money on offer – after their dismal Premier League title defence.Pep said: “We don’t deserve it this season.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We don’t deserve a bonus this season. The bonus, if you win, I don’t know how much.”You go there, (winning) it’s for the club. The managers, the backroom staff, the players we don’t deserve, not even a watch.” More