Philippa Kaur

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    Europa League stadium buried under snow just hours before kick-off in quarter-final

    A EUROPA LEAGUE stadium was buried in snow just hours before kick-off in the quarter-final.Bodo/Glimt host Lazio in their crunch clash in northern Norway – with a 5.45pm UK time start.Bodo/Glimt’s pitch was covered in snow on Thursday morningCredit: X @JanAageFjortoftThe stadium will play host to a Europa League quarter-finalCredit: X @JanAageFjortoftHowever, on the morning of the match, the entire pitch, hoardings, stands and surrounding area were completely covered in thick snow. A video posted by Norwegian footballer-turned-pundit Jan Aage Fjortoft showed the extent of the snow.The clip panned across from the corner of the 8,270-seater Aspmyra Stadion, with multiple inches of snow piled up on the pitch and footprints from a nearby TV truck. Fjortoft joked: “Welcome to Bodo, Lazio. READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”This morning…”Temperatures in Bodo are set to hover around freezing for the first leg of the quarter-final.And snow is forecasted, too.But fans need not be alarmed of the Europa League match being called off.Most read in Europa LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThat is because Bodo/Glimt’s pitch is made of artificial turf and has under-soil heating.And the team of groundstaff were hard at work with tractors and snow ploughs to wipe the playing surface clear.Gary Neville frantically shovels snow back ON to pitch as fans say Man Utd icon ‘doing his best to get match called off’So the game should not face any issues. Lazio finished top of the league phase of the competition and beat Viktoria Plzen in the last 16, while Bodo/Glimt saw off Olympiacos.The winners of this quarter-final will face either Tottenham or Eintracht Frankfurt for a place in May’s final in Bilbao. Tractors and snow ploughs helped clear the pitchCredit: GettyThe game will go ahead as plannedCredit: GettyBodo/Glimt or Lazio will face Tottenham or Eintracht Frankfurt in the semisCredit: Getty More

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    in Motorsport

    Lewis Hamilton arrives in Bahrain with natural-curled new hairstyle as F1 fans say ‘can we take a moment’

    FORMULA ONE fans said “can we take a moment” after Lewis Hamilton arrived in Bahrain with a new naturally-curled hairstyle.The Ferrari ace gave off true rockstar vibes as he sauntered into the paddock with his luscious long hair.Lewis Hamilton showed off a new hairstyle for the Bahrain GPCredit: GettyThe ace revealed his new naturally-curly barnetCredit: GettyHamilton showed off his luscious long hair in the paddockCredit: AlamyThe ace gave rockstar vibes as he relaxed with his Ferrari teamCredit: AFPHamilton is yet to win a race since making the move to his new Italian F1 side.Indeed, the former Mercedes ace is yet to get on a podium this season.And the fresh barnet could finally give Hamilton the power he needs to get the better of British rivals Lando Norris and George Russell – as well as old foe Max Verstappen.Fans were certainly impressed with his brilliant new hair-do as Hamilton then rode around the paddock on a scooter.READ MORE IN F1One said: “Can we take a moment for Lewis Hamilton’s hair?”Another declared: “He looks cool.”One noted: “Love his hair.”Another added: “Really so amazing.”Most read in MotorsportBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHamilton will be hoping for some good fortune this weekend when he races at Bahrain.He finished 10th in last month’s season opener in Australia.Lewis Hamilton has perfect response to dismal Ferrari debut as he achieves feat not seen for 35 years Hamilton later had a ride around the paddock on a scooterCredit: GettyHe is sure to have felt the wind in his hairCredit: GettyHamilton sported a different look at the China GP last monthCredit: GettyAnd Hamilton followed that up with a sixth-place finish at the Grand Prix in China.Last weekend saw him finish seventh in Japan, leaving him eighth in the overall standings.But Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur is confident Hamilton and team-mate Charles Leclerc can climb up the rankings.He said: “I’m used [to it] because the last two years we started like this. For sure it is not ideal and I would prefer to win the first one. “But we don’t need to change the approach from last year as we are almost in the same situation, perhaps a bit worse in terms of pace, and the reaction of the team was very, very strong.”We worked as a team, made small step by small step and we have to keep exactly the same approach, but for sure it is not ideal.” More

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    ‘We would love it’ – Ryan Gravenberch’s agent in come-and-get-me plea to Real Madrid in latest Liverpool transfer blow

    RYAN GRAVENBERCH’S agent has issued an incredible come-and-get-me plea to Real Madrid in a fresh transfer blow for Liverpool.The Reds are already reeling from the knowledge Trent Alexander-Arnold is almost certain to walk away for free to join Los Blancos.Ryan Gravenberch’s agent has issued an apparent come-and-get-me plea to Real MadridCredit: GettyTrent Alexander-Arnold is set to join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summerCredit: GettyThe Spanish giants – who lost 3-0 to Arsenal in their Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday – have also expressed an interest in Ibrahima Konate.And then there’s the contract saga surrounding Virgil van Dijk and Mo Salah – both of whom are free agents come July 1, although it’s believed progress has been made to keep them at Anfield.But now, 22-year-old Gravenberch – a surprise standout star in Arne Slot’s champions-elect – could be on his way too.The Dutch midfielder’s agent, Jose Rodriguez, has claimed ” we would love him to join Real Madrid”.READ MORE SPORT STORIESRodriguez told Marca: “When Ryan was 16, Barca called us. They wanted to sign him, but his father and I prioritised his development.”At Ajax, he was able to develop in a way that he possibly wouldn’t have at Barca.”Fast forward to 2025, and Rodriguez continued: “He’s good enough for Real Madrid.”We would love for him to play for them.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHowever, the Kop faithful can breathe a sigh of relief, with Rodriguez suggesting the move won’t materialise this year.He added: “Liverpool would ask for a lot of money. I know Real have had their eye on him, but now it’s impossible.”Dominik Szoboszlai looks horrified as statue of himself that ‘looks like my a turned inside out’ is unveiledLiverpool fans reacted in disgust with one even calling him “disrespectful”.However, Rodriguez allayed their fears by adding: “I’m Spanish, it’s my dream club, not the dream club of Ryan.”He is really, really happy, and if you ask Ryan, he will agree with you, no stress, keep calm.”Gravenberch has been a key part of Liverpool’s energetic midfield three this season, largely alongside Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai.The 18-cap Holland international – who joined from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2023 for a pinch at just £34.2million – was largely a role player under Jurgen Klopp.But after Liverpool failed in their pursuit of Martin Zubimendi last summer, Slot moved Gravenberch from a more attacking role to a No6.And his red-hot form has seen him become one of the Premier League’s biggest revelations this term, with the Reds – expected to endure a rebuilding year – runaway leaders, 11 points clear of Arsenal, with just seven games to play.Liverpool next take on West Ham on Sunday as they look to tighten their grip on just their second Premier League title – and 20th top-flight crown, which would see them go level with fierce rivals Manchester United.Meanwhile, Real are chasing a new-look defence.Read More on The SunIn addition to Alexander-Arnold and considering a swoop for Konate, Los Blancos are hoping to sign Bournemouth ace Dean Huijsen just a year after he moved to England from Roma.Tottenham star Micky van de Ven’s agent has also come out and claimed “one day play he’ll for a big club like Real Madrid”, in a blow to Spurs. More

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    Cristiano Ronaldo launches new side hustle as Man Utd legend joins forces with Hollywood A-lister

    CRISTIANO RONALDO has announced that he is moving into the film industry.The Portuguese legend continues to broaden his business portfolio off the pitch, with the former Manchester Unitedand Real Madrid forward now 40 years of age. Ronaldo has decided that he wants a crack at the film industryCredit: Getty Images – GettyRonaldo has enlisted the assistance of Matthew Vaughn, pictured here with his wife Claudia Schiffer, to help him make waves in HollywoodCredit: Getty – ContributorThe Al-Nassr man, who has won six Ballon D’Ors, has previously been touted by Forbes as the best paid footballer on the planet. He ranked second in Forbes’ highest-paid sports figures list in the last decade, beaten only by Floyd Mayweather Jr.He topped those rankings in 2016, becoming the first footballer to do so, and a year later, he was at the top once more after accruing earnings of $93million.Now, in a statement released on X, Ronaldo has announced a stunning partnership with Matthew Vaughn, the renowned British filmmaker, whose best works include the 2004 hit Layer Cake, Stardust, and the Kingsman series.Read more FootballIt has been revealed that Ronaldo and Vaughn will start up their own film studio, called “UV Marv”.The statement called Ronaldo and Vaughn “disruptive champions of their game”, with the pair joining forces to produce three films. The first two, as per the statement, have been completed, and release dates are set to be announced, with Ronaldo captioning his statement post with a “Coming soon…” tease.The third, part of a trilogy, is set to start production soon.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSRonaldo has been a highly-marketable figure throughout his career, linking up with countless companies in multi-million dollar partnerships. His most notable is with Nike, who developed his own CR7 range of their Nike Mercurial boot, as well as donning shirts and shorts with the recognisable trademark. Prince William on recreating Ronaldo’s goal celebration in his garden as he builds ‘Perfect Footballer’Ronaldo also has partnerships with Tag Heuer, Armani, Clear Shampoo, Herbalife, as well as cryptocurrency companies Binance and Garena Free Fire. The star has his own “CR7” brand, comprising fragrances and underwear, as well as dabbling in foot and eyewear. He decided to pursue a hotel partnership with the Pestana Hotel Group in 2016, and at the time of writing, Ronaldo owns five hotels, in Funchal, Madeira, and Lisbon – the inaugural hotels – before adding others in Madrid and Marrakesh, with plans for another in Paris.Ronaldo, as an advocate for physical health, also moved into the fitness market, with CR7 Fitness by Crunch, a gym network across the Iberian peninsula. He also invested in the Madrid hair transplant clinic Insparya, which now has locations across Spain and Portugal.He invested in an online watch market – chrono24 – in 2023, and he bought a 10 per cent stake in porcelain company Vista Alegre Atlantis.Ronaldo additionally bought huge shares within the Portuguese media industry, purchasing a large proportion of Medialivre, a huge Portuguese media company, as well as having shares in outlets such as Jornal de Negócios and Correio da Manhã to help bolster his image.Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo revealed his new Nike bootsCredit: Not known, clear with picture deskThe six-time Ballon D’Or winner has been named Forbes’ highest paid sportsperson twiceCredit: Getty More

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    Jude Bellingham ‘applauded as Real Madrid star makes rousing comeback speech in dressing room after Arsenal horror show’

    JUDE BELLINGHAM was reportedly applauded in the Real Madrid dressing room after a rousing speech.The reigning Champions League holders were stunned in the first leg of their quarter-final with Arsenal.Real Madrid were stunned and lost the first leg against Arsenal 3-0Credit: AlamyJude Bellingham was one of the players to do a speech in the dressing room after the defeatCredit: GettyDeclan Rice’s pair of magical free-kicks and Mikel Merino’s superb finish gave the Gunners a shock 3-0 lead at the midway point of the tie. Los Blancos have NEVER overturned a three-goal deficit in a Champions League knockout tie.But Bellingham is refusing to give up on a spectacular comeback at the Bernabeu next Wednesday.According to El Chiringuito TV, the English midfielder was one of a number of senior players who addressed the squad in the angry away dressing room at the Emirates.READ MORE ON JUDE BELLINGHAMBellingham, Fede Valverde, Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe all took the floor to try and rouse the team – who responded with rapturous applause.As per the TV station, Valverde’s motivational speech centred on the pride of playing and fighting for Real Madrid and the club’s rich history as 15-time Kings of Europe.The Uruguayan midfielder allegedly said: “What happened to us? This can’t happen.”We have 90 minutes more and we have to show that we are Real Madrid.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”We have 15 Champions Leagues.”We need to score in the first 15 minutes. Thierry Henry’s blunt six-word statement to Kylian Mbappe before Arsenal’s incredible win over Real Madrid”If we score in the first 15 minutes we will win.”He finished the speech by proudly declaring: “We will come back!”And that sparked more vociferous reactions from his team-mates. Tensions were clearly running high as Real’s latest defence of the Champions League threatened to go up in smoke in the first leg.Even at 0-0, Bellingham appeared to have a heated exchange with Carlo Ancelotti – seemingly shaking his head and flapping his arms in response to his manager’s instructions.But despite the heavy advantage, Arsenal know they still have work to do to reach the semi-finals. William Saliba is wary of Madrid’s status as the crazy comeback kings on their own patch – and told Arsenal to fight fire with fire in one of Europe’s greatest arenas.He said: “We are not scared. We want to go there and win the game.Read More on The Sun“We cannot defend the whole game. We won 3-0 but we know it is not finished. There are a lot of things that can happen.“It was incredible because to win in a quarter-final like this against Madrid, in front of our fans, is amazing. But now we have to do it again next week.”Fede Valverde did the bulk of the motivating to try and inspire a comebackCredit: GettyDeclan Rice and Mikel Merino have put the Gunners in commandCredit: GettyArsenal ratings vs Real Madrid as Declan Rice’s free-kick thunderbolts earn him an ELEVEN out of 10BEND it like Beckham? More like bend it like Declan…It was a set-piece clinic from the Arsenal midfielder as he scored the first free-kicks of his career against Real Madrid – and the first player in Champions League history to score multiple direct free-kicks in the same knockout stage game.Thibaut Courtois was on hand to save Real Madrid in a fast paced first half as he pulled off a fine double save to deny a Rice header and a follow-up effort from Gabriel Martinelli.The deadlock was finally broken in the 58th minute as England star Rice whipped in a sensational free-kick.Rice then sent the Emirates into the stratosphere with as he added a second with an even better free-kick from the left side of the goal which he rifled into the top right corner.Mikel Merino then swept a devastating third into the bottom corner from a low cross to put the cherry on a remarkable night.Rice’s epic showing was enough to earn him an unprecedented ELEVEN in our player ratings.Here’s how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated the rest of the Gunners… More

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    ‘He told me to go’ – Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen drops Real Madrid transfer hint as release clause emerges

    DEAN HUIJSEN dropped a major Real Madrid transfer hint while revealing a release clause in his Bournemouth contract.The 6ft 6in centre-back, 19, has emerged as a key player for Andoni Iraola following last summer’s initial £12.8million move from Juventus.Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen has dropped a major hint over transfer links with Real MadridCredit: RexHuijsen has clocked up 25 Premier League appearances as Bournemouth push for a European finish.And his incredible debut season has seen him become one of the top defensive prospects around.Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea and Newcastle have all been linked with moves for Huijsen.But the newly-capped Spain international is also on the shortlist of Real Madrid.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThey are already close to wrapping up a free transfer for Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold.And Huijsen could now be set to join him in LaLiga this summer after dropping a major transfer hint.Speaking to Spanish outlet El Chiringuito TV, Huijsen hailed Real as a “big team” while admitting he wants to play at the highest level.The teen also name-checked Real legend Sergio Ramos as his icon growing up.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAnd Huijsen even confirmed that his Bournemouth contract contains a release clause – although he refused to reveal the exact figure amid reports of a £50million trigger.Revealing that a friend has been showing him stories linking him to Real Madrid, Huijsen said: “One of my close friends sent me a story about Real. He told me to go to Madrid! Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen couldn’t be happier being nominated for Premier League player of the month “I don’t know, we’ll see. It’s a big team. Every player wants to play at the maximum level possible.“I have a contract until 2030, I do have a clause.“(Idol?) Ramos, since I was young. (Ancelotti?) He is a very good coach. He’s not at Madrid for nothing, he has his merit.” More

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    Aston Villa to go head-to-head with PSG in Marcus Rashford transfer battle with Unai Emery desperate to sign Man Utd ace

    ASTON VILLA are set to go head to head with Paris Saint-Germain this summer in a battle for Marcus Rashford.Sun Sport can reveal the Premier League side want to make the current loan arrangement they have with the England star a permanent switch.Aston Villa are set to face Paris Saint-Germain this summer in a battle for Marcus RashfordManchester United loanee Rashford came very close to joining PSG in 2022Credit: GettyManager Unai Emery has told Villa chiefs he’s confident the Manchester United forward’s head is in the right place and that signing him would help take the club to the next level.The big issue will be Rashford’s salary but Villa hope he could be persuaded to take a drop in his wages in order to secure a move that will help resurrect his career with the club and England.Emery – who took a risk by signing Rashford – rates him very highly.So highly in fact that Villa sources said he’d be prepared to make him their main striker should Ollie Watkins leave over the summer.Read More on FootballWatkins has been constantly linked with a move away from Villa Park, with Arsenal remaining very keen on the player.Rashford almost joined PSG before his loan move to the Villans and is still in talks with the French side who Rashford and Co lost 3-1 to in Paris in the first leg of their Champions League quarter final last night. According to L’Equipe, the versatile forward came extremely close to a transfer to Paris in the summer of 2022.In fact, the Parisians wanted the England international to come in and replace Neymar in the starting line-up.Most read in FootballAt least three meetings took place between the club and the Man Utd star’s entourage.Talks went so well with then sporting director Leonardo that the 27-year-old gave the “green light” for a move to Ligue 1.’That was missing’ – Brutally blunt Thomas Tuchel reveals disappointment in Rashford and Foden’s England performancesHowever, a deal fell apart in May of that year after PSG axed Leonardo and there is a strong feeling that if the Brazilian chief had stayed then Rashford would be playing for the French champions.Nevertheless, the same source reports talks have been been revived between Rashford and Leonardo’s replacement Luis Campos.Villa, who were watched by Prince William and his son George in Paris last night, will host PSG next Tuesday in the second leg of the tie.Wills and George cheer as Villa go a goal up in Paris in the first leg More

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    Eric Cantona launches furious attack on Man Utd chief Jim Ratcliffe and accuses Ineos of ‘trying to destroy everything’

    ERIC CANTONA claims Manchester United has lost its soul as he signed his whole family up as shareholders in rebel club FC United.The French legend was back in town at the weekend and took in the disappointing goalless derby against City.Eric Cantona launched a stinging attack on Sir Jim RatcliffeCredit: GettyThe minority Manchester United owner has come under fire throughout his tenureCredit: PABut he also made his feelings known by agreeing to become a co-owner of FC United of Manchester – while acquiring shares for his four children and two brothers.Cantona fired another blast at new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe for some of the decisions he has made since he moved into the club early last year.He claims the Ineos owner and his team are trying to “destroy everything” and blasted the decision to move away from Old Trafford.Cantona, 58, said: “I support United because I really love United, but now if I was a fan and I had to choose a club I don’t think I would choose United.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“For me, that is very important to respect these people like you respect your manager and your team-mates.“I think since Ratcliffe arrived it’s the complete opposite and this team of directors they try to destroy everything and they don’t respect anybody.“They even want to change the stadium.“The soul of the team and the club is not in the players. All the people around is like a big family.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“I don’t feel close to these kind of decisions. They have another strategy, another project. Do you feel close to this project? I don’t think so.”Cantona – who spent five glittering years at Old Trafford – says it is almost unrecognisable now from the club he knew.Fans say ‘you really aren’t ready’ as bizarre footage emerges of Man Utd legend Eric Cantona’s interviewHe said: “I remember a dressing room with players and Sir Alex Ferguson, all these people you don‘t know who helped us to feel at home and be in a family.“I think it’s very important to respect these people like you respect your manager and team-mates.“Since Ratcliffe arrived, it’s the complete opposite. He doesn’t want Sir Alex Ferguson as an ambassador anymore. He is more than a legend and I think we have to find this soul again.”Last month, it emerged United have drawn up plans for a new £2billion ‘New Trafford’ in the shadow of the Theatre of Dreams.The hope is it could be ready in just over five years – but Cantona is not impressed by the proposals.What we know about the ‘new’ Old TraffordMANCHESTER UNITED plan to build a new stadium rather than redevelop Old Trafford.The decision was made after a number of fact-finding missions to other stadiums including the Bernabeu and Nou Camp.The cost of the project is expected to be a staggering £2billion.A capacity of 100,000 is expected.It is felt that a club of United’s standing should have a new state-of-the-art facility.The new stadium will be built on land adjacent to the Red Devils’ current home.United are looking to not only build a stadium but regenerate the area of Trafford where the ground will stand.There had been plans to KEEP Old Trafford rather than demolish it, and use it as a scaled down second venue.However, it’s looking increasing likely that it will in fact be entirely demolished.The club consulted with 30,000 fans about what to do and believe there is roughly a 50-50 split on staying or moving.The club have appointed the architects Foster + Partners to come up with a “masterplan”. The company were behind Wembley Stadium.Old Trafford has been United’s home since 1910.The target is for completion by 2030. He said: “The stadium is iconic. For me, Arsenal lost their soul when they left Highbury and I’m sure a lot of fans miss Highbury.“It’s like when you go in a house and feel a special energy. Can you imagine Liverpool playing in another stadium than Anfield? “It’s impossible. I don’t think United can play in another stadium than Old Trafford.“But I think maybe we are dreamers and they are more like an economy and a strategy. I hate this kind of thing. I hate this kind of decision.”Cantona revealed he offered help to the new regime to restore United to its former glory – but they did not take him up on it.He said: “I work a lot making movies and TV series. I started a long time ago when I left football.“Until the end of October this year I will shoot movies, but I said to them I can put that (aside) and concentre and help you to rebuild something.Read More on The Sun“And they don’t care. Me too, because I work. I don’t ask anything. But I feel sad to see United in this kind of situation.“So, for me and the respect for myself, I had to do it and I did it, and they didn’t care and I don’t care. They decided something else. They have another strategy, another project.”Cantona spent five years lighting up Old TraffordCredit: Getty Images – GettyUnited released plans for their 100,000-seater new stadiumCredit: AFPCantona offered his services to the Ineos owners – but they rejected himCredit: GettySir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charity More