More stories

  • in

    David De Gea set to finally get long overdue Man Utd send-off with emotional Old Trafford return

    FORMER Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea is set for an emotional return to Old Trafford.The Spaniard, 34, played over 400 times for the Red Devils between 2011 and 2023.David de Gea is set for a return to Old TraffordCredit: PAThe Fiorentina stopper spent more than a decade with the club but left in 2023Credit: GettyDe Gea won the Premier League, FA Cup and Europa League during his time in the North West.But he was unexpectedly released by the club almost two years ago, without fans being able to give him a proper goodbye.The 34-year-old could now be returning to the Theatre of Dreams in August. United will host De Gea’s club Fiorentina on Saturday, August 9 in a pre-season friendly. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe match will be boss Ruben Amorim’s last chance to get a look at his squad before the new season gets underway. A four-time Player of the Year, fans are delighted for the chance to see De Gea back on the Old Trafford pitch once again. One fan wrote on X with a crying emoji: “De Gea back at Old Trafford.”Another said: “Make it his testimonial.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKWhile a third added: “The greatest is back home.”And a fourth commented: “De Gea back to the theatre?? We will be there.” Ex-Man Utd star David De Gea shows he’s still got it and hints at transfer as fans say he ‘could have saved the Titanic’ Since De Gea’s departure, United have struggled to find a regular No1 to replace the Spaniard. Andre Onana was brought in for £43.8million from Inter Milan in the summer of 2023.But after a series of high-profile howlers this season, the Cameroonian international looks set to move on. De Gea took a year away from football before joining Fiorentina last summer.He has been in superb form this season in Serie A, helping the Italian side push for Europe. Man Utd player ratings vs BournemouthBy Katherine WalshMANCHESTER UNITED managed to secure a 1-1 draw against 10-man Bournemouth in the sixth minute of injury time.Rasmus Hojlund’s last-gasp equaliser leaves United 14th in the Prem, after Evanilson was sent off for serious foul play with 20 minutes to go.Man Utd target Antoine Semenyo fired the home side into the lead with a thunderbolt opener, after a calamity of mistakes while playing out from the back.Yet United somewhat responded well, mainly through Alejandro Garnacho’s flurry of chances.So was the Argentine the star player for Man Utd? Check out how the players rated.Speaking to La Repubblica about his time away from football, De Gea said: “I just wanted to take it easy for a while after playing at the highest levels for many years. “Perhaps, it was the best period of my life.Read More on The Sun”I could finally enjoy time with my family and friends whom I had seen little in the past 15 years. “I travelled between Madrid and Manchester, continuing to train my mind and body.” More

  • in

    Ousmane Dembele ‘a doubt’ for second leg vs Arsenal with hamstring injury as PSG star gives health update

    OUSMANE DEMBELE has given a health update after his match-winning performance against Arsenal.The forward netted the decisive goal at the Emirates to hand Paris Saint-Germain the advantage in the Champions League semi-final.Ousmane Dembele picked up a knock against ArsenalCredit: RexThe forward will undergo tests on his hamstringCredit: ReutersHe netted the winning goal in the first leg against ArsenalCredit: PALuis Enrique claimed that the injury was ‘nothing serious’Credit: GettyDembele, 27, scored inside just four minutes into the first leg, leaving the Gunners with all the work to do next week.However, there was hope in the Arsenal camp that PSG could have been without their goalscorer.The former Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund ace was subbed off in the second half, with him suffering a potential injury.Manager Luis Enrique has admitted there are some doubts about whether he could be available for the clash in Paris, France.READ MORE ON SPORTHe said: “The medical tests will take place tomorrow [Wednesday].”It’s nothing serious, it’s rather light, but there is a doubt for the return match.”Enrique also suggested that if Dembele is absent, then he can rely on the rest of his team.He added: “We’re a real team. If Ousmane can play, that’s good. If he doesn’t, we’ll see a team.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSDembele was asked as he was boarding the PSG bus about the injury.The star insisted: “It’s going to be fine.”Wayne Rooney and Thierry Henry give their verdict on Arsenal’s defeat to PSGArsenal believed they had needed a crucial equaliser after half-time, but Mikel Merino’s header was ruled offside by VAR.They pushed to try and find an equaliser but were unable to level the tie before the full-time whistle.After the game, the North London side’s fans were slammed as “subdued” by Wayne Rooney.The Manchester United legend claimed that the supporters did not give enough to the players.He told Amazon Prime: “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.”Read More on The SunArsenal will try to mount a comeback in the second leg of the semi-final next Wednesday.The match will take place at the Parc des Princes at 8pm.Arsenal 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… More

  • in

    Erik ten Hag ‘lined up for return to management with Champions League club six months after Man Utd axe’

    ERIK TEN HAG has been shortlisted by a Champions League club six months after his acrimonious exit from Manchester United.Ten Hag, 55, was sacked in October after overseing United’s worst ever start to a Premier League season.Erik ten Hag could be set for a return to management after his Manchester United exitAlonso could be leaving Leverkusen for Real MadridCredit: GettyAccording to Kicker, however, the Dutch tactician could be participating in next season’s Champions League as he is a serious candidate for Bayer Leverkusen.Leverkusen may soon need to replace Xabi Alonso, a year after he led them to an undefeated domestic Double.The Spaniard is a favourite to replace departing Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti at the end of the season.And the same source claims Ten Hag, who used to work as manager of rivals Bayern Munich’s reserves, is on the reigning German champions’ list of candidates.Read More on Man UtdHowever, there have not yet been any concrete talks with the ex-Utrecht and Ajax boss, who led United to FA and Carabao Cup glory.Nevertheless, the Bundesliga giants have still gathered information on the Dutchman’s situation as they explore the market.But everything will depend on what Alonso chooses to do next.Threrefore, Leverkusen are waiting on the Spanish tactician’s final decision. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThis comes after Ten Hag hinted he may never return to management.He is currently enjoying some time off away from the spotlight of the dugout.And he confirmed in February that he’s keeping his options wide open when it comes to his next move.The ex-Man Utd boss would be open to a new project that “suits him” but is currently happy working away from football with his family. More

  • in

    Eni Aluko QUITS ‘special’ presenting job in fresh blow following public spat with Ian Wright

    ENI ALUKO has stepped down from hosting duties at the Women’s Football Awards amid her public row with Ian Wright.Former England star Aluko aimed comments at Wright last week over his work as a pundit in the women’s game.Eni Aluko has stepped down from hosting duties at the Women’s Football Awards amid tension over her comments about Ian WrightCredit: PAAluko was a regular host at the Women in Football AwardsCredit: PAAluko suggested men need to be aware of blocking opportunities for female pundits, before mentioning Wright’s nameAluko accused Wright of “blocking” pathways for women in football punditry on BBC Radio 4.The former Lioness apologised for her comments – but Wright refused to accept it in an impassioned Instagram video.The Arsenal legend called for the public to “move on” from the incident, but the controversy has shown no signs of slowing down.The pair’s employer ITV the latest to weigh in with a strong statement in support of the 61-year-old former striker.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAnd now Aluko has announced that she will take a step back from her role as host at the end-of-season awards on Thursday. The 38-year-old was due to take to the stage alongside Gabby Logan and Jamie Carragher at the London ceremony.She admitted that she didn’t want her place in the news cycle to “deflect” from the festivities.Aluko’s Instagram statement read: “The Women’s Football Awards hold a special place in my heart.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”It was the first time an event of this scale was created solely to celebrate the incredible achievements in women’s football, and I’m so proud to have been part of it since the beginning.'”However, I’ve decided to take a step back from being part of the hosting lineup this year. Joey Barton charged after ‘comparing Eni Aluko to Fred & Rose West’ – as he slams ‘Banana Republic’ legal system”I don’t want anything to deflect from the joy, recognition, and celebration that this event is all about. “This event belongs to the players, coaches, fans, and everyone who has worked tirelessly to elevate the women’s game.”The awards will be hosted in the very capable hands of Gabby and Jamie, who I know will bring their passion and energy to the stage.”I love women’s football deeply, I’m proud of how far we’ve come, and I’ll absolutely be back involved in the future.”Aluko’s photograph has since been removed from the event’s publicity material, which now features only Logan and Carragher. Aluko’s position with ITV, where Wright is a popular figure, is under scrutiny amid the fall out, according to The Mail. Wright has been a big advocate of the women’s game for a number of years and shown his support in a number of ways.He made an incredible gesture to Stoke City defender Kayleigh McDonald after she suffered a ruptured ACL was forced to set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds when the club refused to pay for surgery.Stoke eventually backtracked – largely thanks to Wright, it has been revealed, as he paid for a sports lawyer to advocate for McDonald.Read More on The SunAnd when the club pulled funding for her rehab at the end of last year, Wright started paying for it out of his own pocket.The defender revealed that her rehab costs around £1,700-a-month. More

  • in

    How Arsenal fell for IDENTICAL ploy to Liverpool for Dembele goal as PSG achieve never-before-seen Champions League feat

    PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN have unlocked a cheat code after scoring two identical goals against Arsenal and Liverpool in the Champions League.Ousmane Dembele’s fourth-minute opener handed the Parisians a 1-0 lead in their semi-final first leg at the Emirates on Tuesday night.Ousmane Dembele’s fourth minute winner gave PSG the advantageCredit: EPAThe Gunners have to overturn the 1-0 deficit in Paris next week after being caught out by the same goal as LiverpoolCredit: GettyThe Gunners were caught cold by fast-starters PSG, effectively silencing the North London crowd.It was a carbon copy of Dembele’s 12th minute strike at Anfield when French side knocked Liverpool out of the last-16 on penalties following a 1-0 win.Both teams were undone by a move started and completed by Dembele early on, so it was déjà vu all over again.On both occasions PSG moved the play to the left hand side of defence, to attract the press of both Premier League teams.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSDembele, 27, twice arrived in an empty centre circle, before driving forward on the half-turn and spreading it wide.Against Arsenal, PSG left-back Nuno Mendes found the Frenchman after he dropped deep behind Martin Odegaard.Dembele initially had acres of space to run into, before finding Khvicha Kvaratskhelia on the left flank.Kvaratskhelia then put Jurrien Timber on the back foot before finding Dembele unmarked, who finished past David Raya from the edge of the box. Most read in Champions LeaguePSG attract Arsenal’s press to the left on Tuesday nightCredit: XDembele then arrives in the middle in empty space, like he did here against LiverpoolThe Frenchman took the ball on the half turn and drove forward before passing it out wide and arriving unmarked in the boxCredit: XPSG did a similar move against Liverpool as they attracted the Anfield press wideCredit: XDembele found space in the centre circle before getting on the end of a brilliant crossCredit: XCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe balance of the midfield suffered without the suspended Thomas Partey, as Declan Rice was naively drawn wide to towards the ball to leave Dembele all alone. PSG made 26 passes in the lead-up to Dembele’s 28th goal of 2025 and Arsenal were chasing shadows for the first 20 minutes after it.But there were two small differences between the goals against Arsenal and Liverpool.The first was that Dembele ran through the middle of the box to finish from close range after beating his compatriot Ibrahima Konate to the ball.And he spread the ball out to Bradley Barcola on the right wing, instead of the left.PSG have scored more goals in the first 15 minutes of games against Premier League clubs this season than Manchester United have, with Ruben Amorim’s side only notching one to their three.The French champions also became the first side to beat four English teams in a single Champions League campaign.Enrique’s side beat Manchester City 4-2 in the group stage before knocking Liverpool out on penalties and sending Aston Villa home in the quarter-finals.They did lose 2-0 at the Emirates early on in the group stage, but Dembele was left out by his manager for a disciplinary issue for “not complying with or respecting the expectations of the team”.That decision has clearly worked wonders as he has returned to the form that expected off him since signing for £42.8m from Barcelona in 2023.Read More on The SunDembele seems to be given total freedom of the pitch while starting as a false nine, scoring 33 goals and providing 11 assists this season. Meanwhile, Barca take on Inter Milan in the other semi-final at the Nou Camp on Wednesday.Dembele’s record in Ligue 1 this season More

  • in

    Evanilson’s ban OVERTURNED by FA after VAR check saw Bournemouth star handed red card for slipping into Man Utd ace

    BOURNEMOUTH star Evanilson has had his ban overturned after he was sent off against Manchester United.The striker was sent off following a VAR review despite slipping before he collided with Noussair Mazraoui.Evanlison was sent off after colliding with Noussair MazraouiCredit: RexEvanlison made contact with the defender’s shin after losing control.But referee Peter Bankes still deemed it a red card offence, despite the tackle not being intentional or malicious.Bournemouth appealed the decision and have been successful, with Evanlison’s three-match ban overturned by the FA.However the Cherries will still feel aggrieved as they played the last 20 minutes against United with ten men, and Rasmus Hojlund scored a last-gasp equaliser for the visitors.READ MORE ON MAN UTDSunSport columnist and former Prem ref Mark Halsey argued Evanilson’s tackle did not warrant a red card, suggesting the VAR John Brooks should not have got involved.He said: “Ref Peter Bankes gave a yellow card to the Brazilian — and that was the correct call, as Evanilson’s slip turned his tackle into a reckless one. It was not serious foul play.”Why on earth did VAR John Brooks get involved?”It’s a very poor decision — and Bournemouth can feel aggrieved because it changed the game and dented their European hopes.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHowever not all fans felt the same way, and there was a mixed reaction to Evanilson’s ban being overturned.One fan said: “What a joke. Leg breaker challenge and its ok in the game. Wow!”Man Utd legend, 61, set to take charge of National League side as he says ‘it wouldn’t be beneath me’Another added: “??? That was a clear red.”But one fan agreed with the decision, saying: “Cost Bournemouth the win that.” More

  • 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