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      Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal celebrations through the years and what they mean, from first goal for Man Utd to famous Siuuu

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO has scored over 900 goals during his glittering career.And needless to say, he has celebrated them in different ways.Cristiano Ronaldo has scored over 900 goals for club and countryOver the years, Ronaldo’s goal celebration has changedIn recent years, we’ve all become accustomed to his famous ‘Siuuu’ goal celebration.But a strike in the AFC Champions League Elite with Al Nassr saw CR7 raise his hands in the air and face the sky with his eyes closed.After the match, he dedicated the goal to his late father who would have turned 71 that day.”Today’s goal has a different flavour… I wish my father was alive because today is his birthday,” Ronaldo said.Read more Ronaldo newsOver the years, Ronaldo, 39, has celebrated goals in very different ways.With the help of body language expert Darren Stanton, SunSport has teamed up with OLBG to tell us the hidden meaning behind the goal celebrations below.An early strike against SpursRonaldo was just a teenager when he started scoring for Man Utd in 2004.Here, his first celebration, is in its most primitive form.Most read in FootballDarren says: “Here we see a gesture with clenched fist. That’s the sort of origin of him really developing his confidence. This is a power gesture some sort of superhero might make.Cristiano Ronaldo ‘agreed to rejoin Man Utd with Real Madrid star in £200m deal’ “At this point in his career, he was reasonably humble. This has pretty much always been his celebration when he’s done well, and [knowing what comes later in his career] this is already saying, pure power. I am the man.”Cristiano Ronaldo is flanked by Ryan Giggs and Ruud Van Nistelrooy and can’t hide his delightArrogance personifiedIn 2006, establishing himself as one of the world’s best young players, Ronaldo found the net against Wigan.What followed wasn’t an act of humility.Darren says: “This is a very interesting power gesture but what’s more interesting is that he’s obviously developed a lot in his career and self-confidence at this point already.”So this is much more of an arrogant kind of gesture because his face is not one of humility like in the earlier image and his eyebrows are together, his eyes are pulled down. Really he’s sort of gesturing his mouth, he’s sort of shouting.”It’s much more of a look at me, look at me type gesture. It’s a demonstration of spreading itself out into more space. So it’s more or less saying, look at me, I’m all powerful. Now we’re seeing elements of arrogance and cockiness creeping in.”Ronaldo celebrates his goal against Wigan in 2006Credit: Mark RobinsonLook at those musclesNow a full international, Ronaldo’s full of self-importance.This couldn’t be more evident than how he celebrated a 2004 Euro semi-final strike against the Netherlands.Darren says: “The more space that a person occupies, it’s really telling us what’s happening internally. We see again the evolution of Ronaldo, we see he’s got his top off and he’s making this sort of Bruce Lee gesture.”He’s flexing his muscles, he’s spreading his arms out. It is a very powerful image. It’s one of sheer arrogance, but also determination. So there’s quite a lot of emotions.”It’s an extreme gesture because the more space we occupy, the more important that we perceive ourselves to be in the environment.”A Euro 2004 strike saw Ronaldo flexing his muscles’Genuine’ happiness In 2009, Ronaldo was already recognised as the best player on the planet.And, at this time in his career playing for Real Madrid, he was the happiest he may have been.Darren says: “In this photo, we see a much more developed personality and his character traits. There’s some cheekiness coming in now and a big broad smile.”The way that we can tell that someone is genuinely happy, in a state of joy, is that they have what we call laughter lines or crow’s feet. This is present in anybody of any age, from their 20s right up to their 80s and older. “If these lines aren’t present, it’s a fake smile, but in this photo we can tell that Ronaldo is obviously over the moon.”We’re still getting a tell-tale power gesture. This is his baseline default setting for ‘I am the man’. But we’re now seeing this massive smile come across his face.”Ronaldo is the main main for Real Madrid – scoring against Deportivo in 2009The biggest stageAt the World Cup in 2006, Ronaldo is already portraying himself as all-conquering.He dropped to his knees after a strike against Iran, and looked to the heavens. But what did that mean?Darren says: “The next image is a really iconic kind of power gesture because we’ve now not only got him making this trademark power gesture, we’ve also got him on his knees.”It’s almost like he’s praying. He’s got his eyes closed. It’s almost like meditation in a way. He’s sort of screaming to the heavens. Again, we’ve got him spreading himself out on his knees.”It’s just a complete power gesture and it’s all about him. He feels he’s the conduit. He’s the main man. He’s the star of the show. We’ve still got these moments of arrogance coming in, but also the fact that he feels absolutely all-powerful and continues to grow in his confidence.”Sheer ecstasy for Ronaldo after scoring against Iran at the 2006 World CupThe moment it changedHis first goal for Juventus in 2018 saw Ronaldo copy a ‘chin thrust’ reminiscent of Conor McGregor.A shift in his personal perception of himself has changed, according to Stanton.Darren says: “In this particular photograph, there are much more advanced versions of some of the character traits that we’ve seen. We’re still seeing this kind of power gesture with the hands, but it’s changed. It’s almost like he’s flying.”He’s like the leader of the pack. You’ve got the rest of his team-mates behind him, but he’s very much front and centre, and we can see this expression of elation. His jaw is out.”That’s what we call a chin thrust, very reminiscent of Conor McGregor who tends to stick his chin out, and it’s saying I’m more important, I’m arrogant. It’s an arrogance gesture and it’s designed to undermine and demotivate other people in terms of challenging their authority and position.”We’re now seeing him moving to a much higher level of self-confidence and personal power so we’ve got his hands by his side now as opposed to the front.”We’ve got this much more defined facial image and his arms are behind him. It’s almost like he’s flying like a superhero.”I think this was the pivotal moment that we saw a shift in his personal sort of perception of himself.”Ronaldo scores his first goal for Juventus but is very much leader of the packSiuuu!It’s Ronaldo’s most iconic goal celebration, recognised in the FIFA games, and we saw it in the Premier League.Here he celebrates scoring a penalty against Arsenal. Darren says: “This image is really iconic and we know that it went viral and was copied by millions of people.”Again, we’ve got the most grandiose extension of personal power because he’s airborne, he’s jumping in the air and, in terms of more space, you can’t get more in his personal proximity than this.”The fact that he’s mid-air, he’s got his arm up. This is probably 10 generations on from the first sort of gestures that we began to see.”He feels all powerful, he is at the pinnacle of his career. The world’s at his feet and he knows he’s considered to be the best player in the world.”The fact that he’s got his arm out, extended, so that’s extending his height, he’s jumping in the air, again, the more space we occupy, the more powerful we feel.”Ronaldo’s famous Siuuu celebration in full effect after scoring against Arsenal on his Man Utd returnHumble RonaldoBack in September, Ronaldo became the first player to score 900 top-level career goals in a game playing for Portugal against Croatia.It brought out a much more humble Ronaldo.Darren says: “For this image, we see a very, very different version of Ronaldo. He’s in what we call a fetal position. Conversely, as I mentioned before, we tend to make ourselves bigger to create a more grandiose sense of self-importance with ourselves.”This is Ronaldo returning to being the very humble man that he once was. He’s making himself as small as possible. He’s on his knees, his knees are tucked up. He’s covering his face, his head’s tucked in.”This is basically the opposite of the Ronaldo that people know. It’s much more humble and he’s not really trying to convey power. It’s more of a, not sadness, but it’s more of a sort of, it’s not a power gesture.”When someone makes themselves into a fetal position they’re trying to withdraw from everything. It means that they’re returning inward.”It’s not about anybody else, it’s about himself and he’s returning to a much more humble version of himself because he loves his country, he’s got such pride and passion and confidence and motivation.”Ronaldo sinks to his knees with his hands on his face – appearing humble in celebrationread more sport featuresJust like TrumpA goal for Al Nassr last month saw Ronaldo’s cock-sure attitude return.In fact, Stanton likened it to Donald Trump.Darren says: “In this particular photo, we see him after he’s made his journey out to Saudi Arabia. This is a really interesting photo because he obviously had his issues back at United.”Now he’s at the front of the rest of his colleagues and we see some really interesting gestures from him.”Number one, we’ve got this chin thrust that’s returned. So his head’s up, his chin’s sticking out. This is arrogance, this is defiance. This is look at me, you know, I’m the man.”He’s got this kind of cocky smirk on his face as well. You know, it’s somebody saying, dare I say, “up yours”, you know. It’s defiant. Look at me now, look at me now. Even though he may not have got the gravitas he did at United, it’s still very much power gestures.”Also, his shoulders are tucked right back, so he’s creating the space, and also he’s got his hands interlocked, which again is a power gesture, which we often see politicians like Donald Trump make, or a sort of steeple gesture. It’s all strong, all strength.”Look at me now, I’ve soared and again, his feet are spread apart, creating this extra space. He’s basically saying to the world, look at me now, I am still the man.”Cristiano Ronaldo appeared to copy a Donald Trump power gesture with his handsA deeper meaningOn the day that would have been Ronaldo’s father’s birthday, he celebrated a strike for Al Nassr by pointing to the sky.It brought out a more reflective side of the CR7.Darren says: “This is sort of an extension of some of the gestures we’ve seen before with Ronaldo. It’s in Saudi Arabia.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He’s pointing to the heavens. It’s quite an ethereal sort of gesture, like he feels he’s connected to a higher power almost. Again, it’s a power gesture saying, look at me, look at me, but it’s not demonstrating arrogance now.”This is more what we call introspective power. He’s probably thinking to himself, you know, I’ve been on this journey for so long. It’s shifted from saying look at me to the world to him being more reflective and introspective.”Ronaldo reaches for the stars during a poignant moment for Al NassrDarren Stanton is a world renowned body language expert More

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      Simone Inzaghi ‘REJECTS’ Man Utd offer after Sir Jim Ratcliffe lined up Inter boss to replace Erik ten Hag immediately

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      MANCHESTER UNITED were turned down by Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi after lining him up as under-fire boss Erik ten Hag’s replacement, reports claim.Ten Hag, 54, has been enduring another turbulent campaign in charge of United, who are winless in their last four matches across all competitions.Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi turned down the Manchester United top jobCredit: EPAMan Utd chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe offered the manager’s position to Inzaghi with immediate effectCredit: PAMan Utd boss Erik ten Hag’s position has become increasingly untenableCredit: GettyThe Dutchman suffered a miserable 3-0 loss to Tottenham at Old Trafford, right after a shocking 1-1 home draw with minnows Twente in the Europa League and a goalless tie at Crystal Palace.And things got even worse on Thursday at Porto where the Red Devils surrendered a 2-0 lead and drew 3-3 thanks to a last-gasp equaliser by Harry Maguire, while Bruno Fernandes was sent off for the second time in just four days.Ten Hag’s position is becoming increasingly untenable and transfer insider Tancredi Palmeri revealed the Manchester giants’ chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe is holding “frantic talks” regarding the managerial position.Palmeri claims United could move for a new head coach during the upcoming international break, which starts on Monday.Read More on Man UtdAnd the Premier League giants reportedly offered the top job to Inzaghi, who won the Serie A last season and led Inter to the Champions League final the previous term.The Italian tactician was asked to take over with immediate effect but he declined.Palmeri tweeted: “Frantic talks underway at Manchester United to decide whether to proceed with a manager change during the break.”Manchester United in recent days offered the bench to Simone Inzaghi to take over immediately during the break but Inzaghi declined”.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSInzaghi’s Inter are currently fourth in the Serie A table with only two points separating them from leaders Napoli.The Nerazzurri won three and only lost one of their first six league matches.Erik ten Hag bemoans defensive lapses as Man Utd waste flying start in Porto The Italian champions are also impressing in the Champions League as they drew 0-0 at Manchester City – in an unofficial rematch after losing the 2023 final – and destroyed Red Star Belgrade 4-0.Simone Inzaghi’s managerial careerHere’s Simone Inzaghi’s full managerial career by the numbers:2016-21 LAZIOGames: 244Wins: 131Draws: 43Losses: 70Titles: Coppa Italia (2018-19), Italian Super Cup (2017, 2019)2021- INTER MILANGames: 166Wins: 108Draws: 31Losses: 27Titles: Serie A (2023-24), Coppa Italia (2021-22, 2022-23), Italian Super Cup (2021, 2022, 2023), Champions League final (2022-23)Nine managers Man Utd considered before keeping Erik ten HagERIK TEN HAG appears to be safe as Man Utd manager, but the Dutchman edged dangerously close to the sack.Here are nine managers Red Devils chiefs are reported to have considered for the job and what allegedly happened with each.Gareth SouthgateEnjoys plenty of support among Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos chiefs but made clear he wouldn’t talk to any clubs until after Euro 2024. There is yet to be any suggestion that contact was made with the England boss.Kieran McKennaTalks were opened with McKenna’s representatives before the FA Cup final, but the former Man Utd coach opted to sign a new deal with Ipswich after Ten Hag’s Wembley win.Roberto De ZerbiAllegedly sounded out before the FA Cup final with salary expectations discussed. But Ineos chiefs concluded ex-Brighton boss was not the right fit for the project.Thomas FrankBrentford boss met Man Utd representatives the day before the FA Cup final. The Dane also dined with Ratcliffe, Roy Hodgson and Frank Lampard at the launch of a new Ineos car in February.Marco SilvaFulham boss reportedly met Man Utd representatives face-to-face two days before the FA Cup final, around the same time as Ten Hag was conducting his press conference.Mauricio PochettinoFell out of Man Utd’s thinking in the first week of June, despite being a favourite of Sir Alex Ferguson.Thomas TuchelMade a very strong impression and came across well during a Monaco meeting. Personal terms were discussed before the ex-Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss decided to step back from the process.Ruben AmorimSporting boss was discussed by the Man Utd hierarchy but did not make the final reckoning.Roberto MartinezPortugal manager was considered in the early stages. More

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      Arne Slot aims dig at Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool boss says ‘I’m a stupid manager if 12.30pm kick offs are more difficult’

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      ARNE SLOT is leading an unlikely revolution at Liverpool – by embracing early Premier League kick-off times. Slot’s predecessor Jurgen Klopp regularly railed against his hated “breakfast slot” during his Anfield tenure. Arne Slot is embracing 12.30 kick-offs as he looks to lead Liverpool to the titleCredit: EPAThe Premier League’s scheduling was a constant bug-bear for Jurgen KloppCredit: GettyKlopp was a vocal critic of the early kick-offs, which he argued were bad for both players and fans.He memorably raged in May: “They dare to give us Thursday-Sunday-Wednesday-Saturday 12.30 – it’s a crime! “I was waiting for Amnesty International to go to them.”But Slot – who has broken records over his first two months in charge on Merseyside – is currently more accepting of the gruelling schedule.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe Reds boss said: “In general, the league where I’m coming from in Holland, they are more aware and try to help the teams that play in Europe more than it happens over here.”But to be fair to the English FA, our schedule is so tight that it is so, so difficult.”I think it is also something that has to do with the people sitting in front of me [the broadcasters], for the television stations – I have the feeling I do an interview every day.”That is why we play at 12.30 because they can pick which team they want to have, and then nine out of 10 times Liverpool is included.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSlot went on to claim it was not the kick-off time that was the issue for him, but tough Premier League away days. He continued: “I don’t think it has so much to do with the 12.30 kick-offs. For me, it is that every away game is difficult.Fans stunned as Arne Slot ‘cooks’ Man Utd with savage statement after Red Devils’ Tottenham humiliation”Because we play so many times then at 12.30, people talk about 12.30. “I think we have to talk about an away game because that is difficult.”If 12.30 was a difficult time to perform, then I’m a really stupid manager because we train every day at 12 o’clock!”I don’t see the idea behind it being that difficult performing at that time.”Klopp has botched his Liverpool exit… and it’s cost him his legacy, says Dave KiddBy Dave KiddNOW we know Jurgen Klopp’s final major trophy haul at Liverpool — one Champions League, one Premier League, one FA Cup, two League Cups and (if you must) a World Club Cup.But where does his reign stand among the greatest of the Premier League era?In black-and-white terms, Klopp is way behind Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola, the only two men to have won multiple Premier Leagues and a Champions League at the same club.Those two sit alongside Brian Clough, Bob Paisley and Sir Matt Busby as the undoubted all-time managerial greats of the English game.But Klopp ranks in the next tier down — with Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho (the Chelsea version), Bill Shankly and Don Revie.These were all men with the strength of character to transform their clubs in their own image and enjoy success but who did not win as much as they might have done.Had Klopp managed to keep his intentions under wraps and ended up with another title, perhaps even a treble or quadruple, he’d have edged himself up into that highest echelon with Ferguson, Guardiola, Clough, Paisley and Busby.But deciding the timing and the manner of your exit is one of the toughest calls for any manager or sportsman.Klopp got it wrong.Read Dave Kidd’s take on Klopp’s demise in full here.Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles.Liverpool’s record over the years suggests they would prefer to avoid the 12.30pm kick-off time at all costs.Since the start of the Premier League, they have played 50 games in the early time slot.Of those matches, Liverpool have run out winners on 23 occasions, drawing 16 and losing 11.It makes the time slot the second-worst overall for the club, only behind 1.30pm starts. According to the stats, Liverpool’s best time to play is at 2pm. Of the 24 Premier League games they’ve played in that slot, they’ve won 18 at a win percentage of 75 per cent.Managers across the league continue to hit out at the Prem’s scheduling, despite Klopp departing over the summer. Most recently, Man Utd’s Erik ten Hag was fuming ahead of his team’s game against Southampton last month. READ MORE SUN STORIESTen Hag told TNT: “First of all, for the fans it is very unfair to deal with this, with 8pm away games on a Saturday night.”The 12.30pm, it’s not right, but they are always there. I’m so proud of our fans that they are always there. More

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      Aerial photos of Stamford Bridge show stadium damage caused by Gent fans during Conference League clash

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      CHELSEA’S first Conference League match of the season was marred by violent scenes from Gent fans at Stamford Bridge.The Blues hosted the Belgian outfit in the League Phase and won 4-2 with a convincing display by Enzo Maresca’s men.Shocking aerial photos show the full extent of the damage caused by Gent fansCredit: PAGent fans tore seats out of Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge groundCredit: PAGent fans caused chaos both inside and outside of Chelsea’s groundCredit: PAGent fans threw the seats away after tearing them outCredit: PAHowever, travelling fans caused chaos both inside and outside of the stadium before the game even began.The visitors filled the plush streets of west London with flares and loud chants as they made their way into the ground.Fans waved scarves over their heads and blocked the middle of the road as cyclists tried to weave between the crowd while buses were completely halted.And when inside, the carnage continued when some fans tore up chairs in the stands and threw them away.Read More on ChelseaThe Chelsea fans were left further horrified when the Bobby Tambling banner from the upper tier was torn down.And shocking aerial footage showed the full extent of the damage done.Almost entire rows of seats have been ripped off in what poses as a shameful site.Chelsea, though, had a smooth evening on the pitch as they cruised to their first ever Conference League victory.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe hosts opened the scoring after just 12 minutes with Renato Veiga’s first ever goal for the club and doubled their lead one minute into the second half with Pedro Neto.Gent hit back with Tsuyoshi Watanabe just four minutes later but Christopher Nkunku put the game away on 63 minutes.Enzo Maresca insists identity of Chelsea is starting to take shape Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall also scored his first ever Chelsea goal only seven minutes later.And Wouter Vrancken’s side grabbed another consolation goal with Omri Gandelman in the 90th-minute mark.Chelsea went on to pick up an easy victory over GentCredit: GettyChelsea won 4-2 despite the shameful scenes at the standsCredit: GettyChelsea’s Renato Veiga and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall scored their first Chelsea goals despite the chaosCredit: GettyGent fans caused bedlam in the Conference LeagueCredit: Rex More

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      Sir Jim Ratcliffe REFUSES to back under-fire Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag and reveals ‘it’s not my decision’ if he’s sacked

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      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE has refused to back Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag.Instead, the Red Devils co-owner has revealed “it’s not my decision” if the under-fire boss is sacked.Sir Jim Ratcliffe has revealed ‘it’s not my decision’ if Erik ten Hag is sackedCredit: GettyThe Manchester United manager is under mounting pressure already this seasonCredit: GettyTen Hag is under mounting pressure at Old Trafford following a slow start to the new season.His side are currently 13th in the Premier League after winning just two of their opening six matches.Sunday’s 3-0 home defeat to Tottenham added to his woes United suffered their third league defeat of the campaign.Meanwhile, a stoppage time header from Harry Maguire was needed to rescue a draw against Porto in the Europa League on Thursday.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTen Hag, who had his contract extended in July, could now be the first managerial casualty of the season.However, Ratcliffe has admitted it will not be up to him if the Dutchman stays or goes.Asked if he has faith in Ten Hag, the British billionaire told BBC Sport: “I don’t want to answer that question…”I like Erik. I think he’s a very good coach but at the end of the day it’s not my call, it’s the management team that’s running Manchester United that have to decide how we best run the team in many different respects.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”But that team that’s running Manchester United has only been together since June or July.”They weren’t there in January, February, March or April – [CEO] Omar [Berrada], [sporting director] Dan Ashworth – they only arrived in July.Erik ten Hag bemoans defensive lapses as Man Utd waste flying start in Porto Man Utd ratings vs PortoMAN UTD ended up with a 3-3 draw after throwing away a 2-0 lead away to Porto.Here’s how SunSport’s Dylan Terry rated the Red Devils’ stars performances in PortugalAndre Onana – 6/10Reacted brilliantly the first time he was called into action with a flying save, only for Porto to score the rebound.Porto then scored with their next shot on target too – Omorodion’s header – and Onana could do little about the excellent finish for Porto’s third.Made two great stops to keep Man Utd in the game.Noussair Mazraoui – 4Looked fairly stable in the first 45 minutes but waned as the game went on.All at sea at the start of the second half as Porto cut through the right-hand side of Man Utd’s defence with ease.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Looked imposing in the air as he dealt with Porto’s crosses from both sides, but then failed to get in front of Omorodion for the hosts’ second goal.Like most of the Man Utd side, his performance dropped as the game went on and he was bullied by Porto’s No9.Lisandro Martinez – 4Should have reacted quicker for the first Porto goal as Pepe got ahead of him to nod into an empty net – with Martinez static on the six-yard box.There is clearly not much of a partnership with De Ligt as Porto pulled them apart all evening.Diogo Dalot – 4Porto enjoyed a lot of success down Man Utd’s left-hand side and Dalot looked all at sea on several occasions.Had little help from Martinez but still looked exposed.Casemiro – 3Anonymous yet again in Man Utd’s midfield – the ball just passes him by.Could not even manage one of his customary fouls.Christian Eriksen – 5Looked leggy out of possession but produced an impressive run before laying it off to Hojlund for Man Utd’s second goal.Then failed to make much more of an impact and his delivery from wide areas left a lot to be desired.Bruno Fernandes – 4A damning indictment of Man Utd’s current predicament as Fernandes was shown a red card for a second successive game.Two high boots, two yellow cards, and another early bath for the Portuguese playmaker – who had worked tirelessly prior to his dismissal.Amad Diallo – 5Very quiet aside from one burst through the middle as Rashford received all of the ball over the other side.Replaced by Antony who arguably created even less.Rasmus Hojlund – 7Made his case for starting ahead of Joshua Zirkzee with a goal, firing beyond Costa at the near post.Held it up and then showed his strength and pace to run at Porto before the break – showing little rustiness in his first start of the season.Marcus Rashford – 8Rashford showed his directness for the opening goal, driving at the Porto back line and forcing the error from Costa.A constant threat in the first half as he assisted Hojlund’s strike.But he was then surprisingly hooked at the break, a decision that will need an explanation from Ten Hag.See how the Man Utd subs rated here”They’ve only been there…you can count it in weeks almost – they’ve not been there a long time so they need to take stock and make some sensible decisions.”Our objective is very clear – we want to take Manchester United back to where it should be, and it’s not there yet, obviously – that’s very clear.”Ten Hag has been in charge since replacing interim boss Ralf Rangnick in the summer of 2022.As for Ratcliffe, he purchased a 27.7 per cent stake in the club back in February and has since overhauled the football operations at United.Newly-appointed CEO Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth are now overseeing Ten Hag’s performance.The United boss’ next test comes on Sunday, when his side visit Aston Villa in their final match before the international break.Omar Berradea (centre) and Dan Ashworth (right) will decide the manager’s futureCredit: PATen Hag’s side have already lost three times in the league and are winless in EuropeCredit: Reuters More

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      Wolves star caught up in bizarre international row after he’s called up by both England AND Portugal U18s on SAME DAY

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      MATEUS MANE is in a bizarre country vs country row – after being called up by TWO nations.Club vs country spats are commonplace, especially during the international breaks so early in the season.Mateus Mane has been called up by both England and PortugalCredit: GettyThe teenager was born in Portugal and played for them last seasonCredit: instagram @mane.mateus11But two different nations are battling it out to have a Wolves youngster play for them this month.That is because England AND Portugal named Mateus Mane in their Under-18s squads. Young Lions’ U18s boss Liam Bramley confirmed his group of players for an upcoming tournament in Marbella.England face Sweden next Friday in the semi-final of the four-team event.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThey will then take on either Ukraine or Netherlands in either the final or third-place play-off. However, Emilio Peixe wants Mane to be available 24 hours earlier on Thursday when Portugal U18s play Turkey in a friendly on Thursday evening. It is understood Mane is eligible for both teams having played for the Portugal U17s last season before making his England debut against Portugal in September ahead of fixtures against Switzerland and France.But because U18s is a non-UEFA age group, both nations are entitled to call the player up.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHowever, Mane will need to make up his mind on the dilemma as he finds himself at the centre of the unusual tug of war. And both Wolves and England confirmed he would feature for the Young Lions in Marbella next week. Boy Wonders: Meet Wes Okoduwa, the Wolves teenager already linked to Man Utd and ChelseaTeenager Mane was born in Barreiro – just outside Lisbon – in September 2007.He spent time in the academy of FC Barreirense.But in 2016, Mane switched sunny Portugal for the north-west of England as he switched to Rochdale’s youth set-up.Then in 2024, the youngster signed for Wolves. He has started the 2024-25 Premier League 2 season in red-hot form, too, with two goals and two assists from his three appearances so far. So it is little surprise two countries he is eligible to represent are battling over his allegiance.However, Mane knows he will not need to commit to one national team permanently just yet due to Fifa rules which allow players to swap until they have earned a senior competitive cap. The striker has made an emphatic start to the Premier League 2 campaignCredit: instagram @mane.mateus11Mane made his debut for England against Portugal in SeptemberCredit: Getty More

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      Mikey Moore, 17, is Spurs’ own Grealish and has been tipped for stardom since age of 8 as coach credits BOXING for rise

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      THERE has been a lot of buzz around Mikey Moore for some time – and his full debut against Ferencvaros on Thursday showed why.Having only turned 17 in August, the South Londoner is viewed by many at Tottenham as the most exciting prospect to come through their academy since Harry Kane.There has been a lot of buzz around Mikey Moore for some timeCredit: AlamyMoore showed why Spurs fans are so excited in the Europa League win over FerencvarosCredit: GettyMoore played 90 minutes for Spurs in HungaryCredit: GettyWatching him tear around the Groupama Arena – where he played the full 90-plus minutes – backed up the hype.HOW DO THEY PLAY AND WHO DO THEY REMIND YOU OF?Moore can play across the front line from left wing, right wing, No10 and even No9.He started wide right in Budapest and caused the Hungarian side’s left-back all manner of problems with his mazy dribbles – before switching to the left in the second half.He reminds you of Jack Grealish, mainly because of his short-socked look, but also because of his excellent control of the ball when running forward.READ MORE IN footballMoore does not quite have Grealish’s physicality yet but to be fair, for one so young, he still has robustness and power that belies his tender years.As impressed team-mate James Maddison put it on Wednesday: “When he first came up (to the seniors) I had to remind myself how young he actually is.“He was 16 and more of like a man already.“When I watch him play, he’s very powerful, and he’s only going to get stronger as he develops into his body.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe is yet to score his first senior goal for Spurs but when he does, do not be surprised to see him nick Son Heung-min’s ‘taking a photograph’ celebration as that is what he has done at youth level.Spurs captain Son is a huge fan of the whizkid, who he has praised for his inquisitive nature and has tipped to be a “top player”.Transfer fees could be SCRAPPED forever after Lassana Diarra wins landmark court case against FifaThe South Korean icon said last month: “Mikey is coming to me most of the time and asking questions, which is very fun. I enjoy talking to him.“He’s a fantastic boy and I’m definitely sure that he can be a fantastic player. There’s no doubt because he has such amazing quality.”TELL US ABOUT THEIR RISEMoore first joined Tottenham at eight and instantly stood out because of his technical ability, his dribbling and ball-striking skills, his determination and enthusiasm.People at the club quickly took notice of his potential and he was involved in England’s youth set-up from Under-15 level.That physique Maddison referenced may well have been finessed thanks to another sport popular with many footballers such as Wayne Rooney.As Moore’s former youth coach Sam Cox revealed to SunSport: “He did a bit of boxing in his younger ages which probably helped his game.”Moore also impressed with his professional approach to his game from an early age, and has been supported by what Cox refers to as a “fantastic” family of his mum, dad and brothers.Moore came up through Spurs’ academyCredit: GettyHe is the most exciting Spurs graduate since Harry KaneCredit: RexHe helped Spurs to win the Premier League 2 title last season, often linking up with PL2 player of the year Will Lankshear, who also made his bow against Ferencvaros.The pair are close and it speaks to how young they are that they are that they still get changed in the academy section of the training ground as they are viewed as Under-21 players.His maturity when dealing with the few media duties he has had so far has been noted by his coaches.Moore expressed how he felt like he had not achieved anything yet when signing his first professional contract earlier this summer, underlining his level-headed attitude.WHAT ARE THE EXPERTS SAYING?Cox, a former Tottenham academy product himself, worked in Spurs’ academy for a decade and has seen a lot of talent in that time.He first started working with Moore at Under-11 level, describing the youngster as “standing out from the pack”.Cox, who recently managed non-league Oxford City, believes the same reports that were being written about Moore then would bear a resemblance to the ones now: ie two-footed, being respectful and hungry to succeed.You would hold Mikey up there with the best I’ve seen since 2005.Sam CoxThe 33-year-old added: “I’ve worked with a lot of young players over my years of Spurs and the ten years I was working in the academy and then previous to that my six years playing there, there’s been some super talent that’s come through.“You would hold Mikey up there with the best I’ve seen since 2005.“Marcus Edwards was a phenomenal talent. Back in my day there was a young player called Terry Dixon, who was a phenomenal talent, and then obviously Harry Kane. I would quite confidently say Mikey is in and amongst that company.James Maddison with MooreCredit: Getty“There are probably two moments for me that stand out with Mikey, having worked with him across the age groups up to Under-16s.“One was Under-11s, we were playing a tournament over at Charlton and there was one incident where he dribbled past a couple of players and was near the halfway line and dinked the goalkeeper.“He’s always the youngest of the age group too which is always difficult because players are often physically better.”But Mikey had no fear and that tournament he went past a couple of players and lobbed the goalkeeper from the halfway line, I thought, ‘Wow, he’s a ten-year-old doing this. Unbelievable to have that kind of football IQ’.“The other moment was Under-14s. I used to join in training sometimes in games and in practice and I was marking Mikey. He was 14 and I was about 27.“He got the ball, he dropped the shoulder, jinked, ended up going past me and sticking it in the top bins and I thought, blimey he’s doing this at 14 to me and I’m supposed to be in the peak of my career.”Those little moments make you think this boy has got something.”WHAT DOES THE NEXT 12 MONTHS HOLD?Spurs fans were already serenading Moore with chants of “he’s one of our own” – just as they used to with Kane – before he made his full debut.So they were fully aware of his exciting potential.The question then was how quickly would Ange Postecoglou throw him in and the answer, at least in the Europa League, was pretty darn fast.Now the question has become is Moore ready to start a Premier League game at such a tender age.There is a chance it could happen this Sunday at Brighton, given captain Son is “unlikely” to be involved, though it is more probable Timo Werner gets the nod.But a first Prem start does not feel long away and there is an opportunity for him to stake a first-team claim over the next year under Postecoglou, who is unafraid of giving kids a shot.Moore heaped praise on his boss after his full debut in Budapest, commenting: “He is giving me little tips all the time, really.READ MORE SUN STORIES“To be fair him putting me in the team, you get the trust straight away so I am thankful for him starting me and putting his trust in me.”Spurs have done well not to block Moore’s development path and, in a similar manner to how Manchester City handled a young Phil Foden, you could see him slowly but surely becoming a key figure over the coming years.Moore announced himself against FerencvarosCredit: Rex More

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      EFL icon recalls his wildest stories, including spiked team-mate turning into Spider-Man and hothead boss’ topless rant

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      EFL legend Darren Pratley has revealed his team-mate once turned into Spider-Man after being spiked on a night out.Pratley helped Swansea up the divisions earlier in his career and played one season in the Premier League for Bolton.Darren Pratley shared a deep dive on his career in ‘What the EFL?’Credit: PA:Empics SportEx-team-mate Rory Fallon acted like Spider-Man after being spikedCredit: GettyBut it is Swansea where he has some of his fondest memories – including his funniest training ground story.He shared some tall tales from his career with SunSport as part of the “What the EFL?” series.From topless manager rants to a moment that still haunts him, Pratley shared all on his 21-year career.WILDEST TRAINING GROUND TALERory Fallon, and we always used to go on a jog. He’d been out the night before, came to training late, he’d been spiked, so he was Spider-Man the night before, apparently jumping around and doing crazy stuff.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBEST EFL PLAYERAdel Taarabt played against him. I played in that game that they keep showing on the EFL where he nutmegs Joe Allen and cuts inside and scores.BEST EFL FANSI’d have to go Swansea, wouldn’t I? Swansea, Swansea, Jacks. Yeah, apart from Leyton Orient, I’d have to go Swansea.DODGIEST EFL FACILITIESAgain, probably be Swansea. We used to train at the David Lloyd gym, so we would be showering after training with the public.If you didn’t have a good result, they would be asking you why when you’re naked in the showers.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSEFL FANS WHO LIVE RENT FREE IN YOUR HEADI’d say Millwall. I’ve scored a few goals against them. Six-, seven-, eight-year-olds who give you a bit of stick when you warm up. It’s an intimidating place to go, so probably I’d say Millwall.EFL star banned for eight matches for biting Liverpool legend Ian Rush’s nephew MOMENT THAT STILL HAUNTS YOUWe played Blackpool in the last game of the season. I think we just had to get a win. So they turned up, Phillips, Ince and all them, and it was 3-0 down after, I think, 15 minutes, and then we ended up missing out on goal difference, I think, on the play-offs.MADDEST DRESSING ROOM TALEIn my first loan at Brentford, at half-time, Martin Allen sits in the centre of the room on a chair with his top off, screaming, shouting at everyone. Didn’t know what was going on.MADDEST TRANSFER STORYAt Charlton, David Cotterill, he was texting me the night before saying that Charlton had offered him a contract, a couple of years and all that, and good money and that, and I was quite shocked, to be fair. And then he turned up the next day at the gates, thinking that he was coming in to sign a contract. Lee Bowyer had come to the gates and was like, show me the emails you’ve been getting, I have a messenger. It wasn’t the manager who he’d been speaking to, someone had pretended to be the manager on an email. He had to go home.WILDEST OWNER ANTICSAt Bolton, Lee Anderson, so he used to come in, we’d be in the changing room, the boys would have discussions whether they were going on a strike, whether they were going to train today.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe wasn’t paying wages for the players. We were in a good time at that time, when he wasn’t paying the players, so I just have to say, Lee Anderson.WILDEST NIGHT OUT”I’ve had a few. Got to say Marbella. We got promoted here, at Leyton Orient. We went to Marbella as a team and staff and had a good time.” More