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      Joshua Zirkzee’s Man Utd career ‘could be over within six months’ as Red Devils explore shock swap transfer

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      JOSHUA ZIRKZEE’S Manchester United career could be over after just six months as Ruben Amorim reportedly explores a shock swap transfer.Zirkzee, 23, only joined the Red Devils from Bologna in July for £36million.Joshua Zirzkee could already be on his way out of Man Utd in a swap dealCredit: GettyBut the striker has just one goal in 16 outings.That effort came on his debut over three months ago.And reports claim United could look to get rid of Zirkzee when the January transfer window opens.However, Italian outlet Il Matino claims new boss Amorim hopes to replace Zirkzee with a world-class striker in a stunning swap deal.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt’s claimed that United will offer Zirzkee PLUS £25m for Napoli misfit Victor Osimhen.The Nigerian is currently on loan at Galatasaray after failing to secure a move to Chelsea over the summer.Osimhen has eight goals in nine games for his Turkish team, with the Blues still interested in signing him permanently.Napoli are able to recall him this winter and are also ready to do business.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut they are demanding teams meet Osimhen’s new £62m release clause in full.Antonio Conte’s Serie A leaders are not interested in bringing another striker to town after signing Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea.Meet the new Wags of the Premier League season, from a Belgian interior designer to a Portuguese modelUnited want to land Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, currently on loan at GalatasarayCredit: GettyWhile Osimhen is likely to demand a tasty annual salary of £10m to boot.He’s not the only striker United are interested in either.Amorim turned former Coventry star Viktor Gyokeres into one of Europe’s most fearsome hitmen.The Swede has 23 goals in 18 games for Sporting Lisbon this season.And United reportedly sent scouts to watch Gyokeres as he netted in his country’s 2-1 win over Slovakia on Saturday.United sent scouts to watch Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres play for SwedenCredit: Getty More

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      Stick or twist? Dream Team bosses torn over popular defenders amid Manchester City blip

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      BRIGHTON made history when they beat Manchester City 2-1 before the international break.That result on the south coast was Pep Guardiola’s fourth consecutive defeat in all competitions, the first such instance of his managerial career.For a decorated coach who sets such high standards, his side are in the midst of an unprecedented downturn in form.Guardiola has suffered four consecutive defeats for the first time in his managerial careerCredit: ReutersNaturally, this blip has translated to the world of Dream Team, not least in regards to Josko Gvardiol (£4.8m) and Rico Lewis (£3.7m).This pair warrants particular scrutiny because of their immense popularity.At the time of writing, Gvardiol and Lewis are the two most selected defenders in the game.MOST POPULAR DREAM TEAM DEFENDERS (% OWNERSHIP):27.4% – Josko Gvardiol26.3% – Rico Lewis21.9% – Trent Alexander-Arnold16.9% – William Saliba16.4% – Virgil van Dijk13% – Lucas Digne12.4% – Pedro Porro12.2% – Gabriel10.7% – Noussair Mazraoui10.6% – Marc GuehiGiven Man City have conceded ten goals across their last four games, it stands to reason Lewis and Gvardiol’s points have dried up.The latter scored his side’s only goal away to Bournemouth in Gameweek 10 but his return of 12 points from his last four outings is not befitting an asset of his price and popularity.Most read in FootballGvardiol and company received a pasting at the hands of Sporting CPCredit: AlamyLewis’ form is even more alarming as he’s mustered just five points in the same time frame!Gaffers won’t resent the talented teenager too much as he’s already provided far more than what was expected of him this season.Having previously been a bit-part player, the England international has established himself as a regular starter for the defending champions this campaign and his return of 87 points represents incredible value for money – he was very affordable for a long while.However, now that he appears in over a quarter of teams, Lewis has to be held to high standard and his form is a major concern.Lewis has been a Dream Team gem this season but his recent returns are disappointingCredit: GettyThere probably aren’t too many Dream Team managers out there who consider this blip in Man City’s form to be critical.Guardiola’s men usually embark upon a long unbeaten streak in the second half of the season that yields plentiful points.But it’s hard to blame the gaffers seeking replacements for Gvardiol and/or Lewis ahead of Gameweek 12, if only temporary ones.City have the luxury of two home games this coming Gameweek but their opponents, Tottenham and Feyenoord, aren’t exactly favourable for defenders.Spurs are the Premier League’s top scorers while the Dutch outfit are the second top scorers in the Eredivisie at present.READ MORE SUN STORIESScore PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWGameweek 13 then brings a double header against league leaders Liverpool and high-flying Nottingham Forest.A pivot away from City’s popular defenders appears to be a perfectly logical strategy, with a view to potentially bringing them back in when their schedule levels out from Gameweek 16 onwards.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £40 in free bets — HERE**New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 4x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 1 x £10 Bet Builder, 1 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      Honduras slapped with final punishment decision after Mexico coach hit by beer can and left with blood pouring down face

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      HONDURAS have been hit with multiple punishments after Mexico’s coach was hit by a beer can thrown from the stands.Javier Aguirre suffered a gash on his head and had blood pouring down his face by the end of the match.Honduras have been punished after Mexico boss Javier Aguirre was hit by a beer canCredit: AFPThe manager played down the incidentCredit: AFPMedics rushed to the Mexico boss’ side but he appeared unwilling to receive treatment as he continued walking down the tunnel.Concacaf have launched an investigation into the incident but have already hit Honduras with sanctions for “failing to implement adequate stadium security measures”.Honduras have been ordered to play their next match behind closed doors while they have also been hit with a fine.A Concacaf statement read: “The disciplinary committee has also fined the federation and warned them that more severe sanctions could be taken should similar incidents occur during future matches.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Mexican football federation had said the behaviour which resulted in their manager being hit had “no place in our sport”, while Honduras manager Rueda said the incident soured his side’s victory.Concacaf are also looking into Aguirre’s conduct during the game, with the Mexico boss downplaying the incident after full-time.He said: “Nothing, it is just football. The game was hard fought, and they played better.”Regarding the other [the incident], there’s no need to mention it, I’m not one who complains, it is just football, nothing happened.”Most read in FootballRueda condemned the incident immediately after the match and described it as “sad”.The Honduras boss went on to apologise to Aguirre as well as Mexico.Rueda said: “I’m sad for what happened at the end of the match, because he is a human being.”I want to apologise to the Mexican people and to Aguirre, this cannot happen.” More

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      Erik ten Hag spotted back in Manchester weeks after Man Utd sacking as he and wife Bianca head out for dinner

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      ERIK TEN HAG is back in Manchester more than three weeks after being sacked by Manchester United.The Dutchman, 54, was dismissed by Red Devils chiefs at the end of October following their worst ever start to a Premier League campaign.Erik Ten Hag left Piccolino’s in Hale Village in ManchesterCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeHe exited the establishment with wife BiancaCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeFormer Man Utd boss Ten Hag smiled for the camerasCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeTen Hag and wife Bianca left in their Audi as they braved the cold weatherCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeIt brought to an end his mixed two-year spell at Old Trafford – which included Carabao Cup and FA Cup wins but also a disappointing eighth place finish in the Premier League last season.He jetted back to Holland immediately after losing his job as he was replaced by Ruben Amorim.Ten Hag was seen in his home country watching a game between Heracles Almelo and NAC Breda.But now, with Amorim set to take charge of his first game as Man Utd boss at Ipswich on Sunday, Ten Hag is back in the city.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe ex-Ajax head coach was spotted leaving Italian chain restaurant Piccolino in Manchester on Monday.He came out the front door alongside wife Bianca – with agent Kees Vos and other members of his management team also said to be in attendance.Ten Hag smiled for the cameras as he walked away.According to Manchester Evening News, he also took the time to clear out his possessions from his home.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMeanwhile, Ten Hag’s successor Amorim took charge of his first training session earlier on Monday.He spent time with a handful of first-team players, with the rest away on international duty.Man Utd divide fans with new ‘school playground’ free kick routine days after Ruben Amorim announcementTakeaways from the session included Amorim already shaping up in a 3-4-3 formation, Antony being utilised at wing-back, and Kobbie Mainoo being at the heart of everything.Ten Hag left Man Utd with the team languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table.Ruud van Nistelrooy was unbeaten in his four matches as interim boss prior to the international break.But a win over Ipswich would still be just their third Premier League victory in eight matches. More

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      Patrick Vieira lands new manager job but set for awkward reunion with former team-mate he found ‘difficult to work with’

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      ARSENAL legend Patrick Vieira has landed a new job with Italian side Genoa just four months after leaving Strasbourg.The Gunners icon and former Crystal Palace boss, 48, spent just one year at Chelsea’s sister club in France.Patrick Vieira has become the new manager of Italian team GenoaCredit: AFPThe Arsenal legend left French side Strasbourg over the summerCredit: GettyBut Vieira is now returning to the beautiful game with Serie A strugglers Genoa.They are 17th in the table, just one point above the relegation zone, after only winning two matches all season.Former Italy striker Alberto Gilardino is set to be shown the door after nearly two years at the helm.And Vieira has agreed to replace him with immediate effect.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLGenoa’s squad is packed with talent including veteran Brazilian winger Junior Messias, Ukrainian playmaker Ruslan Malinovskyi and Croatian midfielder Milan Badelj.Prime aces such as Portuguese striker Vitinha and Danish anchorman Morten Frendrup still have plenty of years in the tank.While kids including Juventus loanee Fabio Miretti and ex-Arsenal defender Brooke Norton-Cuffy can provide some much-needed energy.But there is one star name Vieira will recognise straight away.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMario Balotelli, 34, only joined Genoa on a free transfer three weeks ago and is yet to score in two games.The infamous forward played alongside Vieira at Manchester City for one year during the 2010/11 campaign.Mario Balotelli arrives to join 12th club of rollercoaster career on free transfer and end footballing exile Vieira will find himself reunited with Mario Balotelli once moreCredit: GettyThe pair played together for a year at Man CityCredit: PA:Press AssociationVieira managed Balotelli at Nice but the pair did not see eye-to-eyeCredit: ReutersBalotelli then found himself under the Frenchman’s management at Nice in 2018.He reportedly turned up late to Vieira’s very first training session.And after failing to score in 10 appearances, Balotelli’s contract was terminated midway through the season.Vieira said at the time: “When it comes to Mario, I want to answer back, or just slam him up against the wall, or leave him hanging by his collar on the coat rack.“But I can’t, as I’m no longer a player.”Vieira has since opened up on his relationship with Balotelli.He said in 2020: “Mario’s mindset was difficult for a collective sport.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The philosophy I wanted to put in place, the togetherness and work ethic I wanted to build, it was difficult for me to work with a player like Mario.“It was really difficult for both of us to work together so we decided to go different ways.”Patrick Vieira’s career statsPlaying statsCannes, 1993-1996: 61 games, 4 goalsAC Milan, 1995-1996: 5 games, 0 goalsArsenal, 1996-2005: 405 games, 34 goalsJuventus, 2005-2006: 42 games, 5 goalsInter Milan, 2006-2010: 91 games, 9 goalsMan City, 2010-2011: 46 games, 6 goalsFrance, 1997-2009: 107 goals, 6 gamesTrophies: Serie A (AC Milan); Premier League x3, FA Cup x4, Community Shield x3 (Arsenal); Serie A x4, Italian Super Cup (Inter Milan); FA Cup (Man City); World Cup 1998, Euro 2000, Confederations Cup (France)Managerial statsNew York City, Jan 2016-June 2018: P90 W40 D22 L28Nice, June 2018-Dec 2020: P89 W35 D22 L32Crystal Palace, July 2021-March 2023: P74 W22 D25 L27Strasbourg, July 2023-July 2024: P39 W14 D10 L15Genoa, Nov 2024-current: P0 W0 D0 L0 More

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      Cristiano Ronaldo promises to ‘break the internet’ with his next podcast as he teases mystery guest

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO has “promised to break the internet” after teasing the mystery guest for his next podcast.The Manchester United and Real Madrid legend, 39, launched YouTube channel ‘UR Cristiano’ in August.Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted at a massive mystery guest for his next podcastCredit: RexHe has already racked up an astonishing 67 MILLION subscribers.And Ronaldo has talked about a number of key topics in his 69 videos, ranging from his extraordinary career to goal reactions.So far he has only sat down for a chat with ex-United teammate Rio Ferdinand.While partner Georgina Rodriguez has also been a regular fixture.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, Ronaldo has now vowed to host a “top secret” guest on his next podcast.Teasing the episode to supporters, Ronnie declared “we are going to break the internet.”It remains to be seen who the Al-Nassr star ends up hosting.But fans can’t wait to see Ronnie back in action on their screen.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOne said: “We all want to see Cristiano and Messi together.”Another declared: “The man is amazing, you are amazing Cristiano.”Cristiano Ronaldo sits in on son Cristiano Jr’s training session as 14-year-old looks to follow in dad’s footsteps One noted: “The King of Football doesn’t just play, he inspires the world.”Another added: “My Goat.”Meanwhile, Ronaldo missed Portugal’s 1-1 draw with Croatia last night after returning to Saudi Arabia.He scored twice in last week’s 5-1 win against Poland in the Nations League.But with Portugal already securing their place as group winners, Ronaldo was allowed to leave camp early along with Man City’s Bernardo Silva, Man Utd’s Bruno Fernandes and Chelsea’s Pedro Neto. More

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      Amorim assembles first Man Utd XI, hands Antony new position and redefines defenders’ roles in debut training session

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      RUBEN AMORIM’S debut training session lifted the lid on his amazing plans to restore Manchester United to the top of English football.The Portuguese boss took charge at Carrington this week ahead of Sunday’s trip to Ipswich Town.Ruben Amorim has taken charge of his first Man Utd training sessionCredit: GettyHe had a number of senior stars to work with ahead of the Ipswich gameCredit: GettyMost of United’s squad remain away on international dutyCredit: GettyAmorim’s first session provided plenty of insight into his plansCredit: GettyAmorim will be eager to start his reign with an emphatic win.And United fans are hoping for a taste of the success he brought to former side Sporting Lisbon.Amorim’s first training session saw him work with a handful of senior stars, with the majority of his squad away on international duty.But that didn’t stop the tactician from getting properly stuck in.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe likes of Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw were still in town.And youngsters including Leny Yoro and Kobbie Mainoo were available after injury issues.However, Amorim made sure to include several surprises on the training ground – including the promotion of 16-year-old 6ft 5in wonderkid Godwill Kukonki.Former Portugal midfielder Amorim wore a bright red coat as he oversaw a feisty session.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe immediately brought the energy back to United’s training in his hands-on role.Here, SunSport runs through the biggest moments from Amorim’s first Carrington session…Man Utd fans claim Ruben Amorim could be ‘new Jurgen Klopp’ after heartwarming gesture on stadium tourAmorim looks to be sticking with his 3-4-3 system from Sporting LisbonCredit: GettyThe manager organised players into fresh rolesCredit: GettyNEW FORMATIONAmorim won two Portuguese titles with Sporting playing a 3-4-3 system.United have been a solid back-four side stretching all the way back to Fergie’s days.And many were left wondering whether Amorim would stick with the same old tried-and-trusted formula.But it appears clear he will not be compromising his own methods for the sake of history.Amorim deployed a 3-4-3 shape during his first practice match, with some very interesting new roles.Rashford was moved centrally as the main striker, allowing Amad Diallo and Mason Mount to take up advanced positions just behind.Luke Shaw and Yoro sat either side of Jonny Evans as Amorim’s trio of centre-backs.Antony could be set for a new lease of lifeCredit: YouTubeHe lined up as the right wing-back, giving him full control of the flankCredit: YouTubeANTONY’S ROLEQuestions have been circling over Antony’s future for months now.He failed to impress in his natural position as a winger under Erik ten Hag.Yet Amorim clearly has other plans for the Brazilian.Antony was deployed as a WING-BACK at Carrington yesterday, giving him full freedom of the right flank.With extra men inside, he appeared confident at not having to cover for a marauding full-back.And Amorim’s positional shift could end up giving Antony a new lease of life.United’s defenders were encouraged to play quick short passesCredit: YouTubeThe likes of Leny Yoro could thrive in the back threeCredit: GettyDEFENCE TO ATTACKYoro, Evans and Shaw were at the heart of everything on the field.Amorim is known for his probing football achieved through sharp and quick passes.And it quickly became apparent that all his attacks will start from the back.United’s three defenders were encouraged to move the ball quickly from side to side.They appeared to be under instructions to take a maximum of two touches in a bid to speed up the forward play.And the days of United struggling to build from the back could be over.Amorim took Kobbie Mainoo to the side for a one-on-oneCredit: YouTubeMainoo looks set to play a big role under AmorimCredit: GettyMAINOO MAIN MANTeen ace Mainoo already looks to have cemented himself as a big player for Amorim.The midfielder was back on the field after a month on the sidelines.And Amorim took an immediate shine to one of United’s most talented players.With the Red Devils looking to start from defence, Mainoo’s role as a deep playmaker has become even more important.Amorim could be seen having an intense one-on-one conversation with the youngster during a break in play.United’s new boss appeared to be showing Mainoo, 19, how to position himself without the ball.And Amorim also instructed him how to receive a pass from the centre-backs before pivoting and driving forward into the opponents’ half.Amorim made sure to get stuck in himselfCredit: GettyHe took control with a bright red coat and whistleCredit: YouTubeHANDS-ON RUBENFans will always get excited when they see their manager getting stuck in.But Amorim is so full of energy he could likely pull on a shirt and play this weekend.He held nothing back as he put himself in the middle of United’s session.The boss got involved with plenty of running and touches of the ball.Amorim made sure he commanded attention with his very own whistle.And his bright red coat was hard to miss as he shouted words of encouragement from beginning to end.Amorim wants his goalies playing a short passing gameCredit: YouTubeAndre Onana is likely to benefit greatly from the tacticCredit: YOUTUBEKEEPER’S ROLEAndre Onana’s position at United has always come under the spotlight.Lacking David de Gea’s shot-stopping prowess, much was made of his ball-playing ability.But that was never realised under the old regime, leaving Onana exposed while attempting to play out.However, those days could be over under Amorim.His training goalkeeper was constantly receiving hints from a coach throughout the session.And there were no long balls to be seen, with the young stopper getting counter-attacks against the seniors going with sharp short passes.Amorim was always encouraging his players where to run toCredit: YouTubeEveryone charged back to defend against a counter-attackCredit: YouTubeMOVEMENT IS KEYFrom the outside, Amorim could be seen constantly telling players where to move.An early training drill had two players sprinting in a tight space attempting to win balls from teammates who could only take one touch at a time.On the field, Amorim pointed to spaces as players were encouraged to anticipate passes from team-mates.But United’s new boss was also thinking about his side out of possession too.Whenever the seniors lost the ball, the entire group were made to sprint back to their own half.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis saw United put up a strong defensive block to prevent counter attacks, while also allowing themselves to get back in position for fresh build-up play.And it is clear Amorim is just as focused on keeping goals out as he is on scoring them. 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      Man Utd looking at loan transfer for PSG star Randal Kolo Muani who would slot straight into Ruben Amorim’s new system

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are lining up a loan move for Paris Saint-Germain forward Randal Kolo Muani, according to reports.The Red Devils are preparing for the start of a new era as Ruben Amorim begins his reign as Erik ten Hag’s successor.Randal Kolo Muani could be set for a loan move to Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyRuben Amorim will take charge of his first game as Red Devils boss on SundayCredit: GettyThe Portuguese coach, 39, will lead his Man Utd side out for the first time on Sunday when they travel to Portman Road to take on Ipswich.Much has been made of Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 formation which he is expected to implement at Old Trafford.And the shift in style could see a move for France international Kolo Muani.According to L’Equipe, Man Utd are considering a loan move in the January window.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThey are unable to afford a permanent deal having spent £180million in the summer.But PSG, who paid Eintracht Frankfurt £77m to bring Kolo Muani to the French capital in the summer of 2023, could still be willing to offload the attacker on a short-term agreement.That is because he has become surplus to requirements under Luis Enrique – starting just two of PSG’s 11 Ligue 1 games so far this season.Kolo Muani, who can play on either flank, led the line in a 3-4-3 formation while at Frankfurt – where he scored 26 goals and assisted 17 in 50 appearances.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHow Man Utd could line up with Kolo MuaniSo joining Man Utd would likely see him compete with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee as the main threat through the middle.And Amorim may well see him as the better fit given he has played in the formation in the past.Man Utd legend Nemanja Vidic slams club’s recruitment and questions the ‘character and resilience’ of playersKolo Muani’s PSG contract runs until 2028 – and he recently attempted to quash rumours of him leaving the French champions.He said: “No, I’ve never thought about it [a transfer]. You have to keep the mentality.”It’s up to me to keep working so that the coach trusts me.”Kolo Muani has scored 11 goals and provided six assists in 52 games for PSG.At international level, he has earned 27 caps for France, scoring eight goals and assisting four. More