More stories

  • in

    Carlo Ancelotti ‘makes shock Brazil U-turn despite flying in to sign deal’ as he considers second ‘significant’ offer

    CARLO ANCELOTTI has reportedly made a shock U-turn by turning down the Brazil job.The Real Madrid boss has been chased by the Brazil football federation for several months.Carlo Ancelotti has rejected a deal from BrazilCredit: RexAnd he appeared set to put pen to paper on a deal that would have seen Ancelotti become Brazil manager in 2026 – for the World Cup.Ancelotti travelled to London to sign a contract, only to backtrack according to Spanish outlet Marca.The Italian is understood to have contacted the president of the CBF, Ednaldo Rodrigues, to express his gratitude for the interest but to reject the offer.It is believed Ancelotti is now considering another multi-million dollar from a club in Saudi Arabia.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 65-year-old still needs to agree the terms of his departure from the Bernabeu, as he is contracted to the club until the end of next season.Ancelotti has reportedly demanded £3.4million in compensation to leave this summer, which Real have rejected.But the Spanish giants could be keen to replace Ancelotti, with Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso top of their wishlist.Last season, the ex-Liverpool star guided Leverkusen to Bundesliga title and DFB Pokal successes, while also reaching the Europa League final.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAncelotti won LaLiga and the Champions League last season.But a trophyless campaign this time around could spell the end of his second spell in Madrid.Carlo Ancelotti to step down as Real Madrid boss More

  • in

    Leeds on track to win TWO trophies in same week ahead of final day of Championship season

    LEEDS UNITED are on the brink of winning TWO club trophies this week ahead of the final day of the Championship season.Leeds’ under-21s got the first job ticked off with a 2-1 National League Cup final victory over Sutton United on Tuesday night.Leeds United’s under-21 side won the inaugural National League cup on TuesdayCredit: GettyLeeds and Burnley are in a battle to win the Championship on the final dayCredit: RexBut if Leeds slip-up, the Clarets will be looking to pounce with a home win against play-off chasing MillwillCredit: PAAnd now the first team need to follow that up by winning the Championship at Home Park on Saturday lunchtime. A win over already relegated side Plymouth Argyle will be enough to secure the title over second place Burnley.As it stands, Leeds and Burnley sit level on 97 points, but Daniel Farke’s side lead the way with a superior 13-point goal difference.But if Leeds slip-up, the Clarets will be looking to pounce with a home win against play-off chasing Millwill, as both can finish the campaign with 100 points. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe Whites returned to the summit after hammering Bristol City 4-0 at their final game at Elland Road this season. Scott Parker’s side had temporarily moved ahead with a 5-0 thrashing of QPR on Saturday lunchtime.With both sides already promoted to the Premier League, all that is left to decide is the destination of the league title on the final day.But the under-21 side led by example when they became the inaugural National League Cup winners, which pits Premier League and EFL youth team players against National League clubs.Most read in FootballHarry Gray doubled Leeds’ under-21s lead to win the National League Cup finalCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHarry Gray – who is the younger brother of Tottenham’s Archie Gray – put his side in firm control after Diogo Monteiro’s opener.Harry has enjoyed a brilliant week after celebrating promotion with the first team, following his senior debut in Leeds’ 6-0 thrashing of Stoke City on Easter Monday,’Looks class’ – Three-time English champs release incredible video as they prepare to build one of UK’s biggest stadiumsLeeds were mathematically promoted hours later after Sheffield United failed to beat Burnley, who also went up on Easter Monday.Harry, 16, was an unused sub against Bristol City, and will be hoping he can get a second senior outing on the final day.He remarkably became the fifth family member to play for Leeds, after Archie, their dad, grandad and club legend great uncle Eddie.It was Eddie who broke down in tears when the teenager made his debut against Stoke a fortnight ago.After winning the National League Cup, Gray told LUTV: “I’m enjoying it.”It’s been a good week to be honest. I just want more, I want to keep scoring goals but hopefully in the first team next year, prove myself.”Read More on The SunThe £1m prize fund from the Premier League is meted out only to the National League clubs, who also keep all gate receipts.Leeds are set to host a bus parade to celebrate their promotion back to the top-flight – even if the club miss out on becoming champions. More

  • in

    Wolves frontrunners to sign Jamie Vardy – but Leicester star could make emotional return to former club

    WOLVES are front-runners to land Jamie Vardy — with the veteran striker determined to keep playing in the Prem.The 38-year-old star’s announcement that he will leave relegated Leicester this summer has sparked a flurry of interest.Vitor Pereira’s Wolves are the frontrunners to sign Jamie VardyCredit: RexVardy has announced he is leaving Leicester when his contract expiresCredit: RexBut Vardy could instead return to former club Sheffield WednesdayCredit: RexWrexham’s Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney could offer him at least £50,000 a week in the Championship.And Vardy’s boyhood club Sheffield Wednesday would love to welcome him back after releasing him at the age of 16.But he is adamant he can still cut it in the top flight.West Ham and newly-promoted Leeds are also keen.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWolves boss Vitor Pereira is favourite to land him as he prepares for the exit of £62.5million star Matheus Cunha, most likely to Manchester United.Vardy has 143 Prem goals for the Foxes and rattled in 24 during their sensational title-winning triumph of 2015-16.SunSport columnist Harry Redknapp believes Vardy should make the “no-brainer” switch to Wrexham.Ex-England star Vardy announced his decision to leave Leicester following the club’s relegation to the Championship in a season he called a “s***show”.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKIn a heartfelt statement, he said: “It’s something that I’ve thought about and spoken about with my family. I think it’s time.”I’ll be devastated on the day when it is the last [game], but good things, they come to an end.Jamie Vardy anounces he’s LEAVING Leicester in emotional video with striker left close to tears after 13 years”It’s going to be one of those emotional days. Who knows which way that can go. If you ask anyone, I’m not really an emotional guy.”Nothing like that ever comes across with me, but when you’ve been somewhere for so long, and it is time to say goodbye, you just never know what your personal reaction is going to be.”I’ve spent 13 unbelievable years at this club, with lots of success, and some downs, but the majority have all been highs.”It’s finally time to call it a day, which I’m devastated about it, but I think the timing it right.” More

  • in

    Newcastle legend, 41, spotted BUSKING in city centre and gushes over ‘dream come true’ to play in ‘my home’

    A NEWCASTLE legend has been spotted BUSKING with a guitar in the city centre.The cult hero retired from football back in 2021 and still has a strong love for his time in the Toon.The former star has been spotted busking in Newcastle city centreCredit: instagramHe spent seven years at the MagpiesCredit: PA:Press AssociationJonas Gutierrez, 41, spent seven years at Newcastle following his 2008 transfer from RCD Mallorca.The former midfielder went on to make 205 appearances for the club, scoring 12 goals.One of his dozens efforts came in his final outing for the club which ensured the Magpies would stay in the Premier League.His iconic goal came against West Ham in the last game of the 2014/15 season before being released by the club.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLGutierrez has been diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2012 and had made a full recovery before he returned to the pitch for the club.His treatment even required surgery to have one removed.He has now been spotted busking in the City Centre near the Grey’s Monument.The Argentine posted a video of himself playing the guitar and singing on his Instagram account.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSHe revealed that he still has a lot of love for the city adn the club.Gutierrez captioned the video: “My City, my home. I Am a geordie, I Love this City, I Love this people.Newcastle ace Dan Burn pushing crashed carHe scored a goal in 2015 to keep the club in the Premier leagueCredit: IAN MACNICOL/AFP”Thanks for everthing Newcastle a dream come true playing guitar at the monument.”Fans loved seeing the passion still in Jonas as the flocked to the comment section.One posted: “Once a geordie, always a geordie.”A second commented: “Nearly 10 years ago since that goal against West Ham. Never forget.”A third wrote: “Love it Jonas, never forget all your effort and desire you gave to our club for the fans, especially coming back from Illness to keep us up, you’ll never be forgotten.”A fourth said: “Not every day you expect to see a Newcastle legend sitting playing guitar.”Another added: “Just need Nobby Solano on the Trumpet as well! Wish I’d have seen this in person.”After leaving St James’ Park, Gutierrez went on to have stints at Deportivo La Coruna, Defensa y Justicia, Independiente, Banfield and Almagro.Read More on The SunHe also earned 22 caps for Argentina between 2007 and 2011 in which he scored once.In April 2016 won a disability discrimination lawsuit against Newcastle after claiming he was deliberately not selected following his cancer comeback so an appearance clause was not met.Who are these famous footballers? More

  • in

    Man Utd in shock Tom Heaton U-turn with 39-year-old year old to be offered new contract amid keeper uncertainty

    MANCHESTER UNITED are set to offer Tom Heaton a shock new contract, according to reports.The veteran goalkeeper, 39, was expected to be let go as a free agent and possibly even hang up his gloves when his £45,000-a-week Old Trafford contract expires this summer.Tom Heaton could sign a one-year contract extension at Manchester UnitedCredit: AlamyThere could be an overhaul of the goalkeeping department this summerCredit: PAThere was an understanding that he may stick around at Carrington, though, in a coaching role should he retire. However, the Daily Mail claim Heaton and United could make a surprise U-turn by extending his stay. It is claimed the three-cap England goalkeeper has entered negotiations over a new deal.An additional 12-month contract would see Heaton stay on at United – again as the third-choice stopper. READ MORE ON MAN UTDAn overhaul of the goalkeeping department at Old Trafford remains on the cards.Current No2 Altay Bayindir looks on course to leave to play regular first-team football next season.And uncertainty remains over the future of current No1 Andre Onana, who could move to Saudi Arabia.So Ruben Amorim may opt to keep Heaton around to provide some stability among the goalkeepers.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordAnd that would see Heaton remain in the Premier League into his 40s. The ex-Burnley stopper turns 40 next April.Ruben Amorim warns Rasmus Hojlund ‘he has to score many more’ goals after dramatic last gasp Man Utd equaliserBorn in Chester, he joined United as a trainee in 2002 but left in 2010 after six loans and no Red Devils first-team appearances.But he returned in 2021 after two years with Aston Villa.Heaton has made just three appearances in his four seasons, though. He came off the bench in a 1-1 draw in the Champions League with Young Boys in December 2021 and then featured in two EFL Cup victories – over Charlton and Nottingham Forest – on the way to United lifting the trophy.However, the 2-0 second-leg semi-final victory over Forst in February 2023 was his most-recent game for the Red Devils. This term, Heaton has been named on the bench 16 times – including nine in the Europa League and five in the Premier League.Read More on The SunUnited are being linked with various goalkeepers as possible rivals or even replacements for Onana next season.Espanyol stopper Joan Garcia, Eintracht Frankfurt’s Kaua Santos and Lille’s Lucas Chevalier are all thought to be under consideration. Heaton’s latest appearances came in the successful Carabao Cup run in 2022-23Credit: Reuters More

  • in

    Wayne Rooney takes aim at ‘subdued’ Arsenal fans for PSG defeat as Thierry Henry fires his old side a warning

    WAYNE ROONEY has hit out at Arsenal both on and off the pitch after Tuesday’s loss to Paris Saint-Germain. The Gunners fell to a 1-0 defeat against the French giants in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.Wayne Rooney pulled no punches with his assessment after Arsenal’s 1-0 loss to PSGThe England star believed Arsenal hadn’t turned up for the occasionCredit: GettyAnd he went after the Arsenal fans for failing to match the din created against Real MadridCredit: GettyArsenal legend Thierry Henry admitted PSG had been the better teamArsenal boss Mikel Arteta had issued a rallying call for a deafening atmosphere in North London.But an early goal from Ousmane Dembele quietened the crowd, with the players unable to find a leveller. The game was Arsenal’s first semi-final in the competition since 2009.But Rooney – who appeared in three Champions League finals – didn’t believe the atmosphere lived up to the occasion. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWorking as an analyst for Amazon Prime, the England legend said: “For Arsenal, I was a bit disappointed with how they played.”[I was] disappointed with the fans as well. “The fans against Real Madrid really pushed the team. I thought tonight they were a bit subdued.”The players need help, I thought the fans against Madrid were absolutely fantastic. Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”The best I’ve ever heard them at the Emirates.”I thought tonight they didn’t give them that same energy. Declan Rice tells Arsenal team-mates ‘if we don’t have the ball we die’ before PSG clashArsenal ratings vs PSG as Raya saves keep Gunners in it and poor Odegaard subbed offARSENAL face an uphill battle next week.The Gunners suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in their all-important Champions League semi-final home leg.Ousmane Dembele stunned the Emirates Stadium into silence when his first-time shot hit the post and bounced over the line just three minutes into the match.After a nervous start, it took the Gunners around 20 minutes to settle.But when they did, the momentum began to swing in their favour.Just moments into the second half, Mikel Merino finally put the ball in the net – only for it to be chalked offside after a lengthy VAR check.And Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard forced worldy saves from Gianluigi Donnarumma.David Raya then produced stunning stop from Goncalo Ramos as the Gunners held on at 1-0.It’s not over – there is still at least 90 minutes to be played.But away from home, it will not be easy.Here’s how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated Arsenal’s stars on the night…”In big games, in massive semi-finals of the Champions League, maybe that might be the difference. So maybe they have to give a little bit more.”Arsenal fans have been through a lot I know.”But maybe if they brought the same energy they bought against Real Madrid that might have lifted the players by five per cent.”PSG were far superior, for me, in this game. Thierry HenryCBSRooney also singled out Arsenal’s midfield at half-time, taking aim at Declan Rice, Mikel Merino and Martin Odegaard. Thomas Partey missed out through suspension for the Gunners, with Rice dropping back to take his place as a No6. Rooney said: “The midfield three for Arsenal are all over the place.”They are trying to go press the ball at every opportunity and they are leaving massive gaps, like you see for the first goal.”They are leaving big gaps in behind and PSG will punish them.”Arsenal legend Thierry Henry covered the game for CBS Sports.And he pulled no punches in declaring PSG were the better team from the first minute. Henry said: “PSG were far superior, for me, in this game. Read More on The Sun”A lot needs to be changed for Arsenal to make sure that they can beat PSG. It’s going to be a different ball game. “There is another tie, you never know what’s going to happen.” More

  • in

    Kind-hearted Man City star Jack Grealish donates £1,000 to devastated family of mum who suddenly died

    KIND-HEARTED Manchester City star Jack Grealish has donated £1,000 to the devastated family of a mum who suddenly passed away.Michelle Yates, 55, died on April 4, leaving her loved ones struggling to pay for her funeral.Kind hearted Jack Grealish has donated £1,000 to the devastated family of a mum who suddenly passed awayCredit: GettyA GoFundMe set up by a family friend described Michelle as “generous and kind”, someone who would “give her last pound to anyone that needed it”.The England footballer, 29, has donated £1,000 and posted the page on his Instagram, urging his 8.7million followers to give what they can.The GoFundMe reads: “Michelle suddenly passed away at the young age of 55.“This has left her family and friends in complete shock and devastation.READ MOE ON JACK GREALISH“Michelle was a loving mum to Harry and William, her two sons.“An amazing Nan, a doting wife and lovely friend.“Michelle was a generous and kind woman, someone that would give her last pound to anyone that needed it.“The family were not prepared for Michelle’s sudden passing and are faced with funding her funeral, while trying to grieve and process their loss.”Most read in FootballThe GoFundMe has so far raised nearly £7,000 of the £8,000 target, with Jack the top donor.His previous acts of kindness include a £5,000 donation for 20-year-old student Dylan Lamb’s lifesaving leukemia treatment, as well as another £5,000 for expectant father and young Aston Villa fan, Shaun Francis, who passed away suddenly in 2023 aged just 29.Jack Grealish racked up £10k bar bill partying with pals in the wake Man City’s 5-2 win over Crystal Palace – despite playing 3 minutesThe footballer also gave £5,000 to “beautiful” Instagram influencer, Paige Rice, 22, who was killed in a car crash in 2021.The Audi A3 she was travelling in collided with a taxi in the Queensway tunnel in Liverpool, Merseyside.Jack shared a photo of her on Instagram alongside a broken heart and crying emoji with the tribute: “RIP Paige”.It’s understood that Jack didn’t know Paige but he reached out to one of her friends and offered to donate.He’s also given £500 to a fundraiser for British ex-forces hero James Henderson, who was killed in an Israeli strike on a food convoy in Gaza. More

  • in

    Laura Woods announces shock TV return as she watches Arsenal vs PSG with new baby boy Leo

    LAURA WOODS announced a shock return to TV as she watched Arsenal vs PSG with new baby Leo.The glamorous TNT Sports host gave birth to her first child with fiance Adam Collard in January.Laura Woods watched Arsenal lose to PSG with baby boy LeoCredit: X/Laura WoodsShe welcomed her first child with Adam Collard in JanuaryCredit: https://www.instagram.com/laurawoodsy/Woods also revealed when she will next be on TVCredit: https://www.instagram.com/laurawoodsy/Woods announced her pregnancy last July and gave birth in JanuaryCredit: https://www.instagram.com/laurawoodsy/Woods revealed her pregnancy joy last July before taking a step back from the spotlight.But she made sure she was not going to miss her beloved Arsenal in the Champions League on Tuesday night.The Gunners lost the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain 1-0.Yet Woods cheered on Mikel Arteta’s men with baby Leo in her arms.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLShe shared a heartwarming photo of the pair taking in the game on TV.But at the same time, Woods also announced her shock return to the screen after a lengthy absence.Responding to a fan, she revealed she will be back on the box for Wednesday’s other Champions League semi between Inter Milan and Barcelona.When asked “when are you back on the TV?”, Woods declared: “Tomorrow!”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSShe also revealed she will be in Paris for Arsenal’s return leg next week.Woods added: “Hmm. Not the end of the world, but not the best. On to the next. See you in Paris, Gooners.”Wayne Rooney and Thierry Henry give their verdict on Arsenal’s defeat to PSGThis prompted pal and talkSPORT star Jamie O’Hara to write: “Hassss anyone seeeeen Woodsy?”Woods answered: “Hahahaha f*****g hell here he bloody is. I forgot you and Spurs existed!”O’Hara wrote back: “We miss you Woodsy come back so we can batter you.”Woods replied: “I might just for a laugh. Miss ya J.” More