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      Mikel Arteta and his wife lead Arsenal stars and their stunning Wags on red carpet at gala a day after Liverpool draw

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      MIKEL ARTETA and his wife led Arsenal stars and their stunning Wags out on the red carpet.The Gunners manager and players attended the The 2024 Global Gift Gala in London on Monday night.Mikel Arteta and his wife Lorena Bernal attended the 2024 Global Gift Gala LondonCredit: GettyGoalkeeper David Raya and Wag Tatiana Trouboul also attended the functionCredit: GettyMartin Odegaard posed with his pregnant partner Helene SpillingCredit: GettyThe Arsenal stars were at the gala at the Kimpton Fitzroy HotelCredit: GettyThe glitzy evening was held at the luxury Kimpton Fitzroy Hotel in Russell Square.Arteta was joined on the red carpet by his wife and Spanish actress Lorena Bernal.The boss looked smart in his black tuxedo while Lorena stunned in a blue dress.He was joined by many of his players on the red carpet such as goalkeeper David Raya and injured captain Martin Odegaard.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLRaya wore a full black tux and shirt paired with a white bowtie as he was joined by Wag Tatiana Trouboul.The glamorous model wore a long black dress with a beautiful glittering necklace.Odegaard was accompanied by his pregnant partner Helene Spilling at the event.The couple recently sparked engagement rumours after Helene was spotted with a ring on her finger on a walk.Most read in FootballShe is a dancer who won “Skal vi Danse” – Norway’s version of Strictly Come Dancing in 2021.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSKai Havertz also hit the red carpet in a tuxedo along with his wife Sophia Weber.The couple tied the knot in July in a ceremony in Germany and were full of smiles at the event.Arsenal superfan Leah Ray brings her booster seat to watch the Liverpool game Arsenal ratings vs LiverpoolARSENAL lost further ground in the title race with a 2-2 draw with Liverpool.Arne Slot’s side are a top team, but it will still frustrate Mikel Arteta that his team couldn’t clinch all three points having twice led the match.Here’s how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated the Arsenal players…DAVID RAYA – 6/10Very little he could do for Liverpool’s equaliser, forced to stay on his line from the flicked-on corner, and the same goes for Mohamed Salah’s tap in from a speedy counter.JURRIEN TIMBER – 7Kept Salah quiet for the majority and proved his worth with ball at feet, but starting him was clearly a risk as he hobbled off late on.BEN WHITE – 7He may have been at centre back but his telepathy with Saka remained, curling a peach of a ball over the top for the opener and remained solid even when those around him chopped and changed.GABRIEL – 7Missed his centre-back partner but did well until he worryingly limped off. No surprise that Salah and Darwin Nunez found space when he was absent.THOMAS PARTEY – 8Was targeted in his unnatural position within the first 30 seconds but held his ground for the most part. One of Arsenal’s best players.MIKEL MERINO – 8A stray touch gifted Salah a great chance to score before getting a bang to the same shoulder that kept him out at the start of the season. And then, after a so-so performance, he steps up with a thumping header just before the break to regain the lead.DECLAN RICE – 8Did the nitty-gritty very well in the middle of the pitch with some crucial interceptions and timely tackles. Carried on covering every blade of grass until the very last.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Drifted in and out of the game as a floating 10 and striker but got stuck in when needed and pressed like a rabid dog. Still, was quiet given his recent form.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Lively enough without creating too many clear-cut chances in the first half. Unlucky not to win a penalty after being hauled down by Ibrahima Konate.BUKAYO SAKA – 9Injury? What injury? His hamstring seemed right as rain as he cruised in behind Andy Robertson, cutting it back through the full-back’s legs and firing into the roof of the net.Was understandably taken off in the second half with a need to protect him going into a hectic period of the season.KAI HAVERTZ – 7Given freedom to roam and drop deep. Missed a sitter in the box after Martinelli’s penalty shout but lacked the service via crosses to really be effective in the first half.Remained a physical nuisance after the break but never had that one golden opportunity.SUBS:JAKUB KIWIOR (GABRIEL, 54) – 6Impressive to come in out of the cold to stay firm, but again, his work with the ball at his feet left a lot to be desired.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY (TIMBER, 76) – 6Caught out of position for Liverpool’s late leveller but showed signs of real maturity too.GABRIEL JESUS (SAKA, 85) – N/AETHAN NWANERI (MARTINELLI, 85) – N/AClick here for more Arsenal news.Roos de Back joined defender Jurrien Timber at the eventCredit: GettyKai Havertz and Sophia Havertz got married earlier this yearCredit: GettyDefender Jurrien Timber was flanked by his Wag Roos de Back on the red carpet.She wore a lovely black dress which she combined with a heart-shaped bag.Club legend David Seaman was also in attandance as he arrived with wife Frankie Poultney.Frankie wore a tight-fitting red dress as the couple wowed the crowds.The Arsenal stars attended the gala just a day after the 2-2 draw against Liverpool at the Emirates.The result has left the Gunners five points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City, and four behind Arne Slot’s Reds.Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka did not attend as they were at the Ballon d’Or ceremony.READ MORE SUN STORIESRice finished 26th while Saka placed 21st.Odegaard was also nominated for the award and finished 19th in the final list.David Seaman was snapped with wife Frankie PoultneyCredit: RexLiverpool impressed at Arsenal, but it was a match Jurgen Klopp probably would’ve wonBy Jordan DaviesON the face of it, Liverpool continue to go from strength to strength with Arne Slot’s tenure still in its infancy.Away at Arsenal as title contenders — with a formidable record at the Emirates having won four of their last six there — the Reds fought back, not once, but twice to earn an impressive point to remain four clear of the Gunners.Nine games in, Liverpool have seven wins, 22 points collected and sit in second in what is one of the club’s best ever starts to a Prem campaign.Nothing to sniff at there, and that is without mentioning three straight wins in the Champions League and a 5-1 Carabao Cup third-round thumping of fellow top-flight side West Ham.So to even attempt to pick flaws in Slot’s start with a run that solid would come across needlessly pedantic, deliberately nit-picky.But, and there is a but, given the standards Liverpool have set in these early months, it needs to be said: this draw in North London was a massive missed opportunity.And to go one step further, maybe this is a game Jurgen Klopp would have found a way to win?It has been a long time since Arsenal have gone into a game feeling so vulnerable defensively with world-class centre-back William Saliba missing through suspension.Full-back Riccardo Calafiori was also out injured, usual right-back Ben White began the game at centre-half and midfielder Thomas Partey started on the far right side of the defence.And then, in a chaotic second half, both Jurrien Timber and Gabriel limped off, forcing Gunners boss Mikel Arteta to swap around his back line THREE times by the 76th minute.And yet, despite all of that, a Liverpool side boasting attacking talents like Mo Salah, Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo were hardly making the home fans sweat with a peppering of the Arsenal goal.It was not until a Klopp-style counter-attack from back to front in the 81st minute did the visitors properly test the home defence.But even that finish was a tame one — Salah tapping in past David Raya into an almost empty net.And with nine minutes left plus seven minutes injury time, the expected onslaught for another, to nick all three points — the tally-ho approach — never came.Not Klopp’s heavy metal style, more pleasant folk music with a ukulele in a country pub.You get the impression that Slot was delighted with this outcome.For large parts, Liverpool were defensively sound, gave very little away and snuck away back to Merseyside with a point tucked under their arm and a bloody nose avoided.Yet it was in these sorts big blockbuster matches that Klopp and Liverpool thrived over their nine-year romance, full of excitement, thrills and last-gasp wins that earned them a Prem trophy in 2019-20 and plenty more down-to-the-wire chases with Manchester City.And with Arteta’s Arsenal on their knees — quite literally in some cases — and hanging on for dear life, these are the moments in title races that require a bit of crazy, not caution.A Klopp team of the past would have gone completely and totally Kloppy, throwing men forward at will, blasting their opponents away and forcing the ball into the net through passion and thunder alone, regardless of how open it left them at the back.Slot is not this sort of coach.He is measured, considerate, calm. Good qualities, but not always needed in do-or-die matches that ultimately determine where you finish in May.It is hard to say if this will come back to haunt Slot, who still insists on avoiding any use of the phrase ‘title contenders’ despite clearly being title contenders.With Aston Villa and Manchester City visiting Anfield over their next five Prem outings, we will see whether the Dutchman can loosen the leash and let his team grab games by the scruff of the neck instead of playing it safe.Because as we have seen in this league, going for broke often rewards you — just ask the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger and Pep Guardiola.Fortune favours the brave.Slot needs to discover his own version of that if he is to truly emulate Klopp and transform this Liverpool side into one capable of seizing moments when they matter most. More

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      Ten Hag’s 7-0 humiliation against Liverpool was his turning point at Man Utd with stark before and after stats revealed

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      ERIK TEN HAG’s downfall at Manchester United may have started NINETEEN MONTHS ago.The Dutchman was sacked as Red Devils boss on Monday, following the 2-1 defeat to West Ham at the weekend.Erik ten Hag’s tenure with Man Utd hit a huge turning point last yearCredit: GettyLiverpool’s 7-0 thrashing of the Red Devils saw a massive swing in United’s results going forwardCredit: EPAAlthough Sunday’s Hammer blow may have been the result that burst Ten Hag’s bubble, it was a game over a year ago that started his descent into unemployment.New stats from Opta show that United’s 7-0 humiliation at the hands of Liverpool in March 2023 was the turning point in Ten Hag’s tenure.Not only was that result the moment that much of the Man Utd faithful lost faith in the gaffer, but it’s also when the wheels began to come off.Prior to the defeat at Anfield, Ten Hag’s United had boasted a 73 PER CENT win rate, losing just six games over the course of the manager’s first 41 matches in all competitions.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut things started to look bleak after their 7-0 embarrassment with the win percentage plummeting to just 46 PER CENT from that game onwards. Including the 7-0 defeat, United lost 29 GAMES in 87 fixtures from March 2023 until last weekend.And their defence certainly got leakier in that time too.Prior to the Anfield battering, United were averaging 0.95 goals conceded per game, but saw that increase by over half to an average of 1.45 goals conceded per game.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd they clearly lost their shooting boots too.United had managed to find the net an average of 1.95 times per game when Ten Hag first came in, but only scored 1.57 goals per game after the Liverpool result.Man Utd want Ruben AmorimIn fact, despite playing more than double the amount of games since the defeat, United only won ten more games in that time.Ten Hag’s United side were left red faced on a number of occasions since their Liverpool nightmare too.In the games that have passed since, United lost 4-0 to Crystal Palace and 3-0 to Bournemouth, Tottenham and Liverpool again.Ten Hag’s time has now come to an end and the chiefs at the Manchester giants are in search of a new manager to turn things around.For now, former star Ruud van Nistelrooy will steady the ship as interim boss.But it looks like Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim is favourite to come in as the new permanent gaffer at the club.The Portuguese tactician is reportedly close to agreeing a deal to sign on and place himself in the hot-seat at Old Trafford. Ruben Amorim is being lined up to replace Ten HagCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd ‘could get Ruben Amorim for just £8.5m thanks to THREE contract clauses’ after Erik ten Hag sacking

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      MANCHESTER UNITED will get Ruben Amorim out of his Sporting Lisbon contract for £16.5million less than other clubs would have to pay thanks to a shock clause, according to reports.The club decided to sack Erik ten Hag yesterday after a disastrous start to the season left them languishing in 14th in the Premier League table.Ruben Amorim has verbally agreed to join Man UtdCredit: GettyErik ten Hag was sacked just 14 games since his contract extensionCredit: AlamyRuud van Nistelrooy has landed the job on an interim basis – but the Red Devils are moving fast to appoint Amorim as their new boss.The 39-year-old has reportedly verbally agreed to join Man Utd and is already deep in talks.Amorim’s deal at Sporting expires in 2026 – yet reports state he was planning to quit at the end of this season.Newspaper A Bola claims he has three different release clauses in his contract.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAnother Portuguese club would have to pay £25m for his services – while that figure drops to £17m for sides outside his homeland.But there is also supposedly a “sharks” agreement that makes it easier for Europe’s elite to afford him.The clause allows clubs like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Juventus, Liverpool, Manchester City and United to activate Amorim’s release for just £8.5m.That means Sir Jim Ratcliffe is getting his man for £16.5m less than the other clubs like Porto or Benfica have to pay.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd £8m less than West Ham would have had to fork out if their talks with the boss were successful in the summer.But with the price of sacking Ten Hag setting United back £15m, the cost of the managerial change will be a whopping £23.5m.’Something seriously wrong!’ Ex-Prem ref reacts to huge Man Utd call which saw Erik Ten Hag sackedOn heading to Old Trafford, Amorim said last night: “I was already expecting this question and obviously I’m not going to talk about the future, because otherwise I’ll always have to comment. “I’m very proud to be Sporting coach, that’s all.”It has also been reported that United spoke with ex-Barcelona boss Xavi and considered both Brentford’s Thomas Frank and former Chelsea boss Graham Potter as options before choosing Amorim. More

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      Three ways Man Utd could line up under Ruben Amorim as Sporting boss reunites with former star and top Arsenal target

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      RUBEN AMORIM could ring the changes at Manchester United if he is hired for the top job.The Portuguese manager is hotly tipped to arrive at Old Trafford following the sacking of Erik ten Hag.Ruben Amorim could put his own stamp on the Man United teamCredit: GettyAmorim could be the replacement for the sacked Erik ten HagCredit: AlamyManuel Ugarte played for Amorim while at Sporting LisbonCredit: GettyThe Dutchman was finally put out of his misery after the disappointing 2-1 defeat to West Ham at the London Stadium.Ten Hag was not expecting his time to come to an end as he still held the team’s press conference for the Carabao Cup clash against Leicester on Tuesday.Assistant manager Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the side while a new manager is appointed.Amorim, 39, is the leading candidate to be offered the job by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and could be appointed quickly.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSThe Sporting Lisbon manager will be familiar with Man United’s newest signing Manuel Ugarte.The midfielder starred for Amorim before he left the Portuguese outfit for Paris Saint-Germain in 2023.The Uruguayan would be expected to be given a leading role under the manager in the centre of midfield.The line-up could also drastically change at Old Trafford after a transfer window under Amorim.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMan United have been heavily linked with both Sporting goal machine Viktor Gyokeres and defender Goncalo Inacio.Amorim could insist on the pair’s arrival at Old Trafford to add more quality to his side.Man Utd ratings vs West Ham: Bruno Fernandes causes endless problems but Marcus Rashford entirely absentViktor Gyokeres could be a top target for Amorim to bolster the frontlineCredit: ReutersGoncalo Inacio could be signed to reinforce the defenceCredit: ReutersBruno Fernandes could be used in a more advanced role under AmorimCredit: GettyInacio would command an immediate starting space in the backline and could take up a spot in the middle between Lisandro Martinez and Yoro.While Gyokeres would take up the striker role and replace the Red Devils’ misfiring pair of Hojlund and Zirkzee.The Swedish striker is amongst the most prolific in Europe, having netted 57 goals in 64 appearances for Sporting.He is already familiar with English football, having spent three seasons at Coventry City in the Championship.Man United would face competition to sign Gyokeres, with Arsenal also interested in the striker.Amorim favoured a 3-4-3 formation while at Sporting Lisbon which could suit the club’s current defensive options.Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui are both capable of playing as wing-backs to add width.The back three could be made up of Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro.However, this will only be possible once Yoro has returned to full fitness following his injury in pre-season.The £52million summer signing is closing on his return from a foot fracture and has been training on grass.Without a transfer window, Amorim would likely opt for Rasmus Hojlund to spearhead the attack as he has similar qualities to Gyokeres.Marcus Rashford could then flank the Danish striker on the left and Bruno Fernandes on the right.Another option for Amorim would be to replace Rashford with Garnacho on the left and Hojlund with Joshua Zirkzee.He could also tinker with the defence and put faith in Victor Lindelof.READ MORE SUN STORIESAmorim played alongside the Swede during his four seasons in the Benfica first-team.Long-term injury absentee Luke Shaw could bag the left wing-back spot.Victor Lindelof played alongside Amorim while he was at BenficaCredit: Getty – ContributorLeny Yoro is closing in on his return from a fractured footCredit: Getty More

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      Who is British freestyle football world champion Liv Cooke and is the world record holder married?

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      LIV Cooke is one of football’s brightest stars, having broken numerous Guinness World records and won multiple awards for her dazzling skills.In October 2024, the freestyle ace swapped her millionaire’s lifestyle to slum it in one of Britain’s poorest households on Channel 5’s Rich House, Poor House.Liv Cooke is a football freestyler turned entrepreneurCredit: Instagram/@livcookefsWho is Liv Cooke?Liv Cooke was born in Lancashire on Monday, April 19, 1999.At just 25 years old, she has already achieved a remarkable level of success.She is renowned for her incredible football freestyle tricks, which have earned her a dedicated following on social media.She is a BBC sports presenter and Uefa ambassador who has previously been awarded the Parliamentary Rising Star and Woman of the Future awards.read more on liv cookeLiv’s talent and hard work have brought her not only fame but also fortune — she has established herself as a successful entrepreneur.Career highlightsLiv’s journey to becoming a freestyle football champion began at a young age.She first discovered freestyle football by watching online videos and became a professional freestyler at the age of 16.Her ability to perform complex tricks with a football has captivated audiences worldwide and inspired many aspiring freestylers.Most read in FootballIn addition to her sporting achievements, Liv has engaged in various entrepreneurial ventures and built a business empire.These include founding W1NFLUENCE Ltd — a talent agency representing nearly 100 freestylers — and Liv Cooke Properties Ltd.WATCH freestyle superstar Liv Cooke smash Guinness World Record for keepy uppys WHILE skipping on International Women’s Day Achievements and world recordsLiv’s exceptional skills have earned her numerous accolades and world records.She is currently a seven-time world champion and recently achieved her seventh Guinness World Record.Liv landed 76 alternating crossovers while seated, breaking the record for the “most sit-down alternating football crossovers in 30 seconds (female)”.She set it aboard the Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas cruise ship in Barcelona, adding a unique backdrop to her impressive feat.Do you know what going into [Rich House, Poor House] I thought, it’s TV, it’ll be staged… Was I wrong? Oh, my God, I was so wrong!MarriageLiv is married to a woman named Gal, who is from Los Angeles.She had previously been very private about her relationship status, until she publicly addressed the subject in April 2023.Along with a picture of herself and Gal embracing, Liv wrote on X/Twitter: “Yes I’m dating a girl, so what?”The couple splits their time between England and Los Angeles, balancing their personal and professional lives across two continents.Liv Cooke and her wife Gal on Rich House, Poor HouseCredit: Channel 5Rich House, Poor HouseIn October 2024, Liv participated in Channel 5 TV show Rich House Poor House, where she and her wife Gal swapped their luxurious lifestyle with that of the Wing family.Speaking exclusively to The Sun, Liv said she was shocked to find out the show was entirely real as she was forced to walk in the poor family’s shoes day and night for the full week.She said: “Do you know what going into it I thought, it’s TV, it’ll be staged.Liv was surprised to find that life on the show wasn’t stagedCredit: Instagram/@livcookefs”They’ll be sneaking in extra food. We’ll know where we’re going and we’ll sign off on the family that we’re swapping with.”Was I wrong? Oh, my God, I was so wrong!”I didn’t have a clue. It’s all real. You actually do experience their life. There’s ups and downs. It’s an emotional roller coaster, for sure.”Some days I was laughing. Some days I loved it. Other days I was crying.”She added: “I understood how much cash they actually had every week.READ MORE SUN STORIES”To see somebody live off that… I couldn’t comprehend it and I couldn’t do it.”I tried to do it but ended up with burgers with no bread and everything — I was a mess.” More

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      Inside Man Utd manager target Ruben Amorim’s life from internship with Jose Mourinho to wife’s impressive footie network

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      RUBEN AMORIM has emerged as the frontrunner to be Erik ten Hag’s permanent successor at Manchester United. The Sporting CP boss has a strong coaching resume at the age of just 39.Ruben Amorim has been linked to the Man Utd job to replace Erik ten HagCredit: GettyThe 39-year-old is one of Europe’s brightest coachesCredit: AFPTaking over the role in 2020 following a short spell as Braga manager, his short career has already become summarised by breaking records.At Braga, he became the first manager to beat Benfica – where he had played for nine years as a player – for 65 years, and then at Sporting, he won the club’s first league title in 19 years.He added the Taca da Liga (Portuguese League Cup) in the same season to score a double, before following up with a repeat victory of the trophy in the season after and eventually landing a second league title last season.His exploits on the field with his 3-4-3 system championing youth progression have seen him highlighted as one of Europe’s brightest tactical coaches and linked with some of the biggest jobs in world football.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMan Utd are the latest club to come calling after interest from Liverpool, Manchester City and West Ham, and look set to land the Portuguese tactician.Amorim’s rise has inevitably drawn comparisons with one of his Old Trafford predecessors, Jose Mourinho.Special One 2.0?However, there is likely a good reason for that.After suffering a career-ending ACL injury at the age of 32, Amorim attended a coaching course at the Faculty of Human Kinetics, University of Lisbon with lectures led by Mourinho alongside seven-time Primeira Liga winner Antonio Veloso.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSDubbed the Special One 2.0, Amorim also had an internship at Man Utd under Mourinho in 2018, and has previously cited the Special One as his “reference point” in coaching.He has played down any comparisons between the pair, saying of his idol: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”Erik Ten Hag SACKED by Man United – here are the SIX candidates to replace himBut Amorim has already become unique in his own way, with his move to Sporting seeing him become the then third-most expensive managerial appointment ever in a deal worth £8.3million (€10m).His first job in coaching at third division team Casa Pia saw him guide the team to promotion despite being handed a six-point deduction and Amorim being briefly suspended from management because he did not have the proper coaching badges.Although, he does seem to have the same kind of temperament as Mourinho, with Amorim being dubbed “a master trash-talker” who tries to play mind games with his opponents. Where have we seen that before?Speaking to the Daily Mail, Portuguese football expert Tom Kundert said of his demeanour: “He’s very open in press conferences, happy to respond to all questions – even the stupid ones – with an informative answer.”And he also retains a remarkably jovial demeanour, even when the pressure is on. “He’s one of these coaches who fosters a superb spirit among the whole squad, and that is no doubt the fruit of his communicative approach.”In five years as a coach, I cannot remember him ever criticising any of his players in public and I cannot recall one news story of an unhappy player. Amorim had an internship at Man Utd under Jose MourinhoCredit: Twitter @Mourinho_XtraHe has called the Special One a ‘reference point’ for his own coachingCredit: Getty”When things do go wrong for Sporting, which has not happened much under Amorim, he shifts all the focus on himself.”He will say things like, ‘We lost because Sporting have a coach who is still inexperienced and is learning the trade and who got it wrong today’. “Overall, he has a very affable personality and generally does a great job at swerving any controversies or spats with rival managers.”Another way he is unique is with a fan account on social media dedicated as a countdown page to Amorim’s next press conference.Amorim has remained in touch with the former Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid and Tottenham boss, even though their relationship has evolved to a more equal standing now.Then-Roma boss Mourinho messaged Amorim after Sporting knocked Arsenal out of the Europa League in 2023 to say: “The old and the new Mourinho are still in the competition.”Married lifeAmorim married Maria Joao Diogo in 2013Credit: FacebookShe has her own interior design businessCredit: Instagram @doistons_designinterioresWork does not stop behind the scenes for Amorim.He is a father of two and is married to Maria João Diogo, who have one son together. Maria has built her own business in interior design with an academic degree in telecommunications engineering.The couple got married in 2013 in front of 160 guests at a beautiful ceremony at the Palácio de S. Marcos church in Coimbra.Players like Nuno Gomes, Miguel Vítor, Hugo Viana, Luís Filipe and Quim were all present. As was Maria’s brother, Antero Henrique.Antero was famously the former Sporting Director at PSG – and was a Man Utd target – before the Red Devils switched their attention to Dan Ashworth.He was responsible for the most expensive transfer ever – bringing Neymar to the Ligue 1 giants in a record-breaking £198million from Barcelona.Antero also managed to convince Kylian Mbappe to snub Real Madrid, when he moved from Monaco.While Dani Alves, who was fielding several offers from Premier League clubs, was persuaded that his future belonged in the French capital in 2017.Before his tenure at PSG, Antero modernised Porto’s academy and introduced handball and basketball to the organisation.READ MORE SUN STORIESA club museum and TV channel were also insisted upon by the ambitious football director.Another sister of Maria, Ines Diogo, is married to one of Amorim’s former team-mates in Luís Filipe.Her brother Antero Henrique was once the Sporting Director at PSGCredit: AFP More

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      Ruben Amorim to Man Utd LIVE: Sporting boss ‘verbally agrees’ to take charge of Red Devils – latest updates

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are working on a deal to appoint Sporting boss Ruben Amorim as the club’s new head coach.It comes after former manager Erik ten Hag was sacked on Monday morning following the Red Devils’ poor start to the 2024/25 Premier League season.Amorim is said to be open to accepting the move to Old Trafford, with Man Utd ready to pay Sporting his €10m release clause.NEXT MAN UTD MANAGER LATEST ODDSFollow our live blog below…Contract talks with AmorimSporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim remains Manchester United’s top target.And according to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg, the most important contract details between Amorim and United have already been agreed upon.Only a few details remain and therefore a “complete agreement” is not unlikely.Copy linkCopiedMarco Silva ‘approached’Fulham boss Marco Silva is also considered by Manchester United after Erik ten Hag’s departure.According to Guillem Balague, Silva has been “approached” by United.The Portuguese tactician was also linked last summer when Ten Hag’s position was being reconsidered by the Red Devils’ chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe.However, the Dutchman remained in charge and Silva stayed at Craven Cottage.Credit: RexCopy linkCopiedRuben Amorim twist?Manchester United may not be signing Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim just yet.According to Guillem Balague, Amorim might decide to wait for Manchester City if Pep Guardiola leaves. That could lead to a reunion with City’s new sporting director Hugo Viana.United, though, are still pushing for a deal as they want the Portuguese tactician to replace Erik ten Hag at the helm.Copy linkCopiedChange of heart?Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim was reportedly reluctant to leave before the summer.Initial reports suggested Amorim was focused on the task at hand.However, the Portuguese tactician now appears keen to replace Erik ten Hag at the helm.That alone shows that the Red Devils have immense pulling power even during intense struggle.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd ‘hope’ for dealThe transfer rumour mill is in full swing after Erik ten Hag’s departure from Manchester United.United are pushing hard for a deal to sign Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim as Ten Hag’s successor.According to The Athletic, there is hope an agreement can be concluded fairly swiftly.Reports suggest the Portuguese tactician is open to move and it all now depends on Sporting.Copy linkCopiedAmorim ‘very open’ to joinSporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim is “very open” to joining Manchester United with immediate effect.That is according to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, who claims talks between United and Sporting are ongoing.And it now largely depends on the Lisbon giants to make that deal possible.Originally, the Portuguese tactician intended to move next summer.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied’Verbal agreement’ with AmorimSporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim has “verbally agreed” to become Manchester United boss.That is according to transfer insider Ben Jacobs, who claims Amorim has already said yes to United – as per his sources in Portugal.The Red Devils and Sporting now working on a compensation agreement for the Portuguesen tactician.The 39-year-old head coach has a €10million (£8.3m) release clause.Copy linkCopiedRatcliffe targets AmorimSir Jim Ratcliffe has assembled one hell of a brains trust at Manchester United.And it seems, by closing in on Ruben Amorim, that they have started to get brainy. Started taking intelligent decisions. That they are making Manchester United sensible again.United have fallen so far behind Liverpool and Manchester City in recent years that they have been little more than a speck in the rearview mirror of either of their North-West rivals.Yet Liverpool and City have both been strongly linked with Sporting Lisbon boss Amorim, the hottest young property in European coaching, and it is United who are on the brink of landing him.Amorim was favourite for the Liverpool job when Jurgen Klopp announced his decision to quit early this year and he has been favourite to succeed Pep Guardiola at City since his Sporting colleague Hugo Viana agreed to take over as director of football at the Etihad.So this is a coup for the crew Ratcliffe has put together to run United’s footballing operation – having poached Dan Ashworth from Newcastle as sporting director, Omar Berrada from Manchester City as chief executive and Jason Wilcox from Southampton as technical director.Copy linkCopiedAmorim contract talks Manchester United are really pushing for Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim.According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, United have held contract talks with Amorim’s camp.Copy linkCopiedSporting dominate under AmorimSporting Lisbon have been enjoying a stunning start in the Primeira Liga under manager Ruben Amorim.Amorim is reportedly United’s top target to replace Erik ten Hag at the helm.The Red Devils are said to even have held talks with Sporting for the Portuguese tactician who appears keen.The Lisbon giants have won all nine league games this season under the 39-year-old head coach with a goal difference of +28Copy linkCopiedResults this seasonThey simply haven’t been good enough this season.Man Utd 1-0 Fulham – WBrighton 2-1 Man Utd – LMan Utd 0-3 Liverpool – LSouthampton 0-3 Man Utd – WMan Utd 7-0 Barnsley – WPalace 0-0 Man Utd – DMan Utd 1-1 Twente – DMan Utd 0-3 Tottenham – LMan Utd 3-3 Porto – DVilla 0-0 Man Utd – DMan Utd 2-1 Brentford – WFenerbahce 1-1 Man Utd – DWest Ham 2-1 Man Utd – LCopy linkCopiedRuud awakeningRuud van Nistelrooy will take charge as Manchester United manager on an interim basis.Van Nistelrooy only came in as Erik ten Hag’s assistant at the beginning of this season.And already the club finds himself in one of the biggest jobs in football.Credit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedMan Utd statementManchester United issued the following statement after Erik ten Hag’s dismissal.Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited.Man UtdCopy linkCopiedTen Hag sackingManchester United have decided to part ways with manager Erik ten Hag after a dismal start to the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.United sacked Ten Hag on Monday following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham on the weekend.The Premier League giants failed to find any consistency under the Dutchman, with speculation around his future starting at the backend of last season.Man Utd have put Ruud van Nistelrooy in charge on an interim basis as the club begin their search for their seventh manager since Sir Alex Ferguson left the club.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd move for AmorimManchester United are making a strong move for Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim.According to The Athletic, United are actively working on a deal to appoint Amorim.The Red Devils are ready to pay the Portuguese tactician’s €10million (£8.3m) release clause.The Manchester giants are in talks with Sporting and the 39-year-old head coach is open to accepting a move to Old Trafford.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopied More

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      Inside Enzo Maresca’s radical methods including guard of honour at training as ‘joke club’ Chelsea become serious outfit

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      AFTER starting the season as ­everyone’s favourite joke, it may be time to take Chelsea seriously.With their warring owners having splurged £1.2billion on under-performing ‘talent’, the Blues were ripe for a kicking.Chelsea have lost just one of their last 10 games in all competitionsCredit: GettyEnzo Maresca is beginning to create a more positive culture at Stamford BridgeCredit: GettyBut there now appears to be at least some sort of plan and they are just one point behind Arsenal after nine games.Cole Palmer has developed into one of the best players in the Premier League.And Nicolas Jackson has been transformed from a misfiring, yellow-card collecting figure of fun into a clinical striker.Moises Caicedo, all £115million of him, appears to be a capable footballer after all — having looked out of his depth following his huge switch from Brighton last year.READ MORE ON CHELSEABoss Enzo Maresca has turned Chelsea from a clown car into — if not quite a Ferrari — something far more sensible.When he was plotting his next move in the summer, many would have forgiven him for snubbing the Blues.There was interest from his native Italy, across Europe and also other Prem clubs.Chelsea was far from the easy option — especially as he had never previously managed in the top flight.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTodd Boehly has spent more than £1billion in his two years as ownerCredit: GettyBut against a lot of noise and fury he has taken a firm hold on the club.Maresca — who won the Championship for Leicester in his first full season as a manager last term — has taken to the job with an authority few with such little experience can command.The History Of Chelsea’s Logo He arrived weighed down by comparisons to former mentor Pep Guardiola. He was labelled Pep 2.0 or Diet Pep.But through a combination of charm, resilience and — most importantly — results, Maresca has made his own way.As early as the club’s pre-season tour of America — already a challenge with a ludicrous five games in five different ­cities — the new manager was up against the Chelsea circus.Star midfielder Enzo Fernandez publicly divided the squad after being accused of singing a racist song, while fans’ favourite Conor Gallagher was forced out.Meanwhile, Raheem Sterling’s exit was frantic and mishandled.But Maresca emerged unscathed.While from the outside the tour looked a nightmare, travelling with the squad a sense of calm came from the manager.Rarely did he say anything to inflame situations that were largely out of his control and ordered from on-high.Those around Maresca have tried to ensure he can set a firm tone when speaking to supporters via the media and get his ideas across with clarity and authority.Having seen his former West Brom team-mate Graham Potter suffer under the Stamford Bridge spotlight, he had to be ready.Maresca’s agency Wasserman — who also represent Potter — enlisted the help of Adrian Phillips, a former Chelsea senior communications manager, to prepare the coach for his step into the unknown.That support has helped guide Maresca not only through the controversial sales of players but also to shut out the noise as co-owners Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly fell out.Everyone knew the job was never going to be straightforward but Maresca was still privately ­surprised early on by just how much chaos surrounded him.Whether it was the boardroom rows or transfer acrobatics.A near 40-man squad was cut down and added to — sometimes in places where it did not need it.Maresca wanted another centre-back but ended up being given Joao Felix.However, the young, bloated group has been brought together through tough love and some lighter touches.Noni Madueke and Mykhailo Mudryk were criticised for a lack of focus and consistency while only last week the boss scolded Reece James’ leadership ability.Risky steps but ones which appear to be paying dividends.Madueke has four goals in eight Premier League games while Mudryk — though left out of some squads — is showing signs of promise in Europe.While he has been hard on some, the players seem to generally be on-side.The squad enjoyed his training sessions from the off, seeing far more of the ball than under previous coaches — while Maresca himself has also joined in sessions.The former Manchester City and West Ham coach has introduced moments to celebrate individual achievements — such as first goals or international call-ups — when players receive a guard of honour from team-mates as they emerge for training.A level of competition has also been added ahead of those sessions, activation in the gym designed to pit players against one another and keep levels high.It is all bringing the best out of players who looked to have the weight of the world on their shoulders last season.Jackson has gone from an erratic forward to a clinical finisher while Caicedo is now back to his best in midfield.Six strikes in nine games have taken Jackson to 20 goals in a Chelsea shirt, while Caicedo has made more tackles and interceptions than any other top-flight player.All of that is underpinned by Palmer’s genius. Concerns that he would not have the freedom to impact games under Maresca are a thing of the past.READ MORE SUN STORIESPredecessor Mauricio Pochettino began the upturn last season — but a summer of turbulence threatened to undo all of that.Now, Maresca seems to be turning Chelsea back into a serious football club.Chelsea player ratings vs NewcastleCOLE PALMER was once again the star of the show.His perfect pass for Neto set up Nicolas Jackson’s opening goal and then he scored the second in a 2-1 win over Newcastle.He was class – but not all the Chelsea players were.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players at Stamford Bridge…Robert Sanchez – 3/10Pretty poor in all honesty.A liability in terms of distribution, and while a decent shot-stopper, he consistently seems to be a big question mark in this Chelsea eleven.Malo Gusto – 3It looks as though Chelsea may have to choose between Gusto and Reece James to start on the right with themFailed to impact the game much attacking-wise, and was bettered by Lewis Hall who crossed for Alexander Isak’s equaliser.Wesley Fofana – 6Picked up a knock early on and played the rest of the game with a strapped-up knee.Nonetheless, gave as good as he got against the powerful Alexander Isak for large parts of the game, and made some crucial blocks and tackles throughout.Levi Colwill – 6Was fortunate to get away with a clumsy tackle on Bruno Guimaraes early in the first half, but was still fairly solid.For a man with such an impressive passing range, it felt like he couldn’t quite put it to use today.Seemingly prevented Alexander Isak from levelling with his aura alone…Reece James – 2Playing as a left-centre back it’s hard to see how Chelsea will get the best out of what could be one of the finest attacking wing backs in the world.He didn’t look comfortable in that position, and let Alexander Isak run away from him for Newcastle’s equaliser.He came up with two crucial blocks in the second half to deny Isak from making it two or three, before giving him a golden chance to do so which was not taken.Romeo Lavia – 7Followed up a brilliant performance in the loss to Liverpool with another good showing in the middle of the park here.Starting to look like a bargain with performances like these if he can stay fit, as he claimed the assist for Cole Palmer’s fine finish.Moises Caicedo – 7Effective in breaking up play for the Blues, and it was a solid showing from a midfield player who has been so good this season.Steps into challenges nicely at just the right time, and is becoming a dependable figure in the same mould in which N’golo Kante and Claude Makelele were in their time here.Noni Madueke – 5Quiet in the first half, but better in the second as he looked to trouble Lewis Hall more.Was outshone by Pedro Neto on the opposite flank this time out, before being swapped out for Mykhailo Mudryk.Pedro Neto – 8So much pace down the left-hand side which was utilised perfectly to leave Livramento in the dust to set up Nicolas Jackson’s opening goal.Could have had a goal early in the second half as he rattled the post with a header after leaping like a salmon.Cole Palmer – 9Started the game well with a cracking finish which VAR ruled out, only to cook the Newcastle defence a matter of moments later with an incisive pass for Neto to set up the opener.Newcastle simply could not handle the midfield man, who lit up Stamford Bridge early in the second half to claim his sixth goal of the season.Nonchalance personified, cool Cole showed why he will attend the Ballon d’Or ceremony tomorrow night, and why he can win it in coming years.Nicolas Jackson – 8A superb first-time finish opened the scoring for the Blues, and the Senegalese forward did well with the little service he had in the first half – often needing to drop deep to pick up the ball and link up the play.14 goals in his last 14 Premier League games – leave the Didier Drogba comparisons at home, this is a superstar in his own right.SUBS:MYKHAILO MUDRYK (NONI MADUEKE, 67) – 5Had a big chance to add a third to Chelsea’s tally after replacing Madueke, but his left-footed strike was saved by Nick Pope, who didn’t have to move.ENZO FERNANDEZ (ROMEO LAVIA, 72) – 5Didn’t add anything which Lavia wasn’t already giving, but ultimately wasn’t given much time to really impact the game.MARC CUCURELLA (MALO GUSTO , 78) – 5Individually, didn’t have a lot of time to show what he’s made of, but Chelsea look like a better team with him in the side.He plays the inverted left-back role well, allowing Chelsea to get the most out of their right-side.CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU ( NICOLAS JACKSON, 78) – 6Had a half-chance late on, which wasn’t taken as he dilly-dallied on the ball on the edge of the box.Thought he had won a penalty on the stroke of the 90th minute after going down under pressure from Dan Burn, but it was ruled out by VAR.Click here to read more on Chelsea. 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