Soccer

Subterms

    More stories

    • 225 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Sporting 1 Arsenal 5 LIVE RESULT: Arteta’s side THRASH Portuguese champions with Saka and Havertz amongst the goals

      by

      ARSENAL thrashed Sporting Lisbon 5-1 in their Champions League clash tonight. Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Magalhaes, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard all scored for Mikel Arteta’s side, while Goncalo Inacio bagged for the hosts. Kick off time: 8pm GMTTV channel: TNT Sports 1Live stream: discovery+FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Gunners need to put run togetherHaving slipped behind leaders Liverpool, it is important that Arsenal can put a run of form together over the festive period.With the games coming thick and fast, Arteta has the chance to put pressure on their rivals.With the two sides above them playing each other this weekend, victory at West Ham is a must.Copy linkCopiedOdegaard leads by exampleMartin Odegaard is the spine of this Arsenal team.Without him, they look lost and lack a cutting edge.The Norwegian playmaker was on form again this evening and makes Mikel Arteta’s side tick.As long as they keep him fit, the sky is the limit for The Gunners.Copy linkCopiedChampions League full-time scoresSlovan Bratislava 2-3 AC MilanSparta Prague 0-6 Atletico MadridBarcelona 3-0 BrestBayer Leverkusen 5-0 Red Bull SalzburgBayern Munich 1-0 PSGInter Milan 1-0 RB LeipzigMan City 3-3 FeyenoordSporting 1-5 ArsenalYoung Boys 1-6 AtalantaCopy linkCopiedFT: Man City 3-3 FeyenoordHow about this for a result.Despite being 3-0 up, Man City concede three goals in fourteen minutes to make it six games without a win for Pep Guardiola’s side.Next up, a trip to Anfield.Copy linkCopiedFT: Sporting 1-5 ArsenalIt was a clinical display from Mikel Arteta’s side this evening.The stats suggest there was not much between the two teams but this was a match that The Gunners controlled.Victory puts them seventh in the Champions League table.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Jordan Davies in LisbonOne of the all-time great European performances from Arsenal here. Pretty much a complete performance, totally dominating away from home with a swagger to boot.Gabriel mimicking Viktor Gyokeres’ ‘mask’ celebration as it went to 3-0 before half-time just sums up the confidence running through Arsenal once more after a tricky run of form.Are… are Arsenal back? Time will tell.Copy linkCopiedFT: Sporting 1-5 ArsenalIt is all over in Lisbon.A comprehensive victory for The Gunners.One to forget for the Sporting fans.Copy linkCopiedMan City 3-3 Feyenoord89. Wow. just wow.Man City seemed to have clawed a draw from the jaws of victory here.Hancko scores for the visitors to level things up after being 3-0 down.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedSporting 1-5 Arsenal89. Arteta will be more than happy with this result.On paper this seemed like a tricky fixture.Saka almost adds another but Israel gets down to make the save.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedMan City 3-2 Feyenoord82. Well this has changed the atmosphere somewhat.Gimenez scores to really pile the pressure on out of form Man City.The game seemed to be done but now we have a game on our hands.Copy linkCopiedSporting 1-5 Arsenal83. Merino shoots from the edge of the box and as the ball swerves in the air, the keeper parries it back out into the middle of the goal.It means a simple finish for Trossard who heads into an empty net.Sporting have been dreadful defensively, it makes you wonder the standard of the Portuguese league if these are their champions.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Leandro Trossard (Arsenal)Copy linkCopiedBayer Leverkusen 5-0 Red Bull Salzburg79. Aleix Garcia puts the icing on the cake for the Germans.This has been a very one-sided game but certainly what Leverkusen needed after their defeat at Anfield.They have put the Austrians to the sword this evening.Copy linkCopiedMan City 3-1 Feyenoord77. No chance of a clean sheet for Pep’s side.Hadj Moussa converts from close range to give the visitors a slight glimmer of hope in this game.If they can add another it will certainly be a nervy finish at The Etihad.Copy linkCopiedSporting 1-4 Arsenal75. Sporting a create a couple of chances in succession.In the first instance, Raya gets down well to make a good save in the bottom corner after being unsighted until late.Trincao then tries a shot from distance but it takes a big deflection and just loops over the bar with Raya at full-stretch.Copy linkCopiedSporting 1-4 Arsenal70. Arteta has the chance to rotate his squad now.Martinelli and Rice are the players to make way.They are replaced by Trossard and Merino.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedBarcelona 2-0 Brest69. Dani Olmo has doubled the lead for the Spanish outfit.It is always a dangerous scoreline when you only have a slender lead.The second goal should see Flick’s side through to victory.Copy linkCopiedBayer Leverkusen 4-0 Red Bull Salzburg61. With just under half an hour remaining, the German champions are turning on the style.Schick adds a fourth for Alonso’s side.It could be a long evening for the Austrian side.Copy linkCopiedSporting 1-4 Arsenal65. Odegaard is brought down by Diomande and the referee immediately points to the spot.Saka steps up and buries it in the bottom corner of the goal.That should calm some Arsenal nerves now.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)Copy linkCopiedPenalty to ArsenalCopy linkCopiedYoung Boys 1-5 Atalanta60. This has turned into a stroll in the park now.The Italians are dominating the game and look like scoring every time they come forward.It could be damage limitation time for the Swiss side now.Copy linkCopiedMan City 3-0 Feyenoord58. Blip? What blip?Erling Haaland scores again to put this game to bed.If only they could play Dutch teams every week, there would be no five consecutive losses then.Copy linkCopiedSporting 1-3 Arsenal56. The atmosphere in the ground is totally different now.Raya is booked for timewasting and the home fans are letting the Arsenal players know what they think whenever they take their time with throw-ins.Another goal from Sporting would really put the cat amongst the pigeons. Copy linkCopiedMan City 2-0 Feyenoord53. Man City look set to put their dreadful run to an end.Ilkay Gundogan has scored a second goal for the Premier League champions.Pep Guardiola will want his side to turn the screw now and get themselves a big win to restore some confidence.Credit: PACopy linkCopied More

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd draw up four-man striker transfer shortlist for January including Osimhen and Boniface but fans fume at omission

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED have four strikers on their shortlist ahead of the January transfer window, according to reports.Only Everton, Crystal Palace and Southampton have scored fewer goals than the Red Devils in the Premier League, with new boss Ruben Amorim identifying the position as a problem area.Victor Boniface is highly-rated by Man Utd chiefsCredit: GettyVictor Osimhen is also on United’s shortlist with Napoli star currently on loan at GalatasarayCredit: ReutersRandal Kolo Muani is set to be made available in JanuaryCredit: GettyOmar Marmoush is also on the Red Devils’ radarCredit: APSummer signing Joshua Zirkzee has scored just one goal in all competitions and Rasmus Hojlund has found the back of the net twice this season.Marcus Rashford scored as the striker against Ipswich, but Amorim is still keen on getting in a new No9.Sky Germany report that United have drawn up a four-man shortlist for moves in January.Bayer Leverkusen star Victor Boniface is admired by Man Utd after he fired Xabi Alonso’s side to an undefeated domestic double last season.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut Boniface, 23, who has struggled with injuries, could prove too expensive and would only become available in the summer.His Nigerian compatriot Victor Osimhen is another being talked about at Old Trafford.He is on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli after his move to Chelsea collapsed before the start of the season.Osimhen, 25, has a £110million release clause, though clubs could get him for less as the Italian giants want to sell. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMan Utd’s four-man striker shortlist Stats this season:Victor Boniface: 15 games, eight goals, one assist (Bayer Leverkusen)Victor Osimhen: 10 games, eight goals, four assists (Galatasaray)Randal Kolo Muani: 13 games, two goals, one assist (PSG)Omar Marmoush: 17 games, 14 goals, ten assists (Eintracht Frankfurt) PSG star Randal Kolo Muani is also on Man Utd’s shortlist after struggling in the French capital.He has found the back of the net 11 times in 53 games since his £77million deal from Eintracht Frankfurt.Gary Neville admits he ‘can’t see what’s going to happen’ with Man Utd conundrum as he names likely winners under Amorim Kolo Muani, 25, could be open to a move to the Premier League, having started just two PSG games this term.A January loan is seen as realistic and a permanent move possible if United can find the cash.His replacement at Frankfurt was Omar Marmoush, who is second at the top of the Bundesliga goalscoring charts behind only Harry Kane.The versatile Egyptian has eleven goals and seven assists this season and his contract expires in 2027.Marmoush, 25, is rumoured to be available for between £42m to £50m.Man Utd fans have been left baffled by the omission of Sporting Lisbon star Viktor Gyokeres, with many hoping the Swede follows Amorim to Manchester. One supporter said: “Why is Gyokeres not on the list? He would suit us perfectly.Another added: “Gyokeres is still the best striker in the market.”READ MORE SUN STORIESIt is not just a striker the new manager wants as he also has his eye on a new left-back.Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies is reportedly first choice, with Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez the alternatives. Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More

    • 213 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Arne Slot bursts out laughing after reporter tells him what Liverpool fans have been singing about him

      by

      ARNE SLOT burst out laughing after being told about Liverpool fans’ new song.The Reds boss has enjoyed a stunning start to life at Anfield after replacing Jurgen Klopp. Liverpool fans have come up with a brilliant Christmas song for their managerCredit: APArne Slot could not stop laughing when he found outCredit: GettyHis high-flying side sit top of the tree in both the Premier League and the Champions League.They are the only team with four wins from four in Europe’s new-look competition.And ahead of hosting holders Real Madrid in matchday five, Slot learned about the festive jingle written for him.A journalist informed the Dutchman during the press conference that Liverpool supporters have started singing: “It’s beginning to look a Slot like Christmas,” in tribute to their new touchline hero. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd Slot could not help but giggle at the lyrics – but had nothing to say about the song other than he had no idea about the genius tweak.The original – It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas – was first written in 1951 by Meredith Willson and has been made popular by various artists including Michael Buble. However, Liverpool fans will not be hoping for a repeat of the 1951-52 season following their new version – because rivals Manchester United won the top flight that season.Slot was also asked about the future of Mo Salah following his bombshell comments after the 3-2 win at Southampton.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSalah revealed he is “more out than in” as he approaches the final six months of his current Anfield contract.He insisted there has been no offer on an extension amid transfer speculation linking him to Saudi Arabia. Mo Salah admits he’s ‘more OUT than in’ as he piles pressure on Liverpool to offer him a new contractBut Slot had the perfect response to the comments when quizzed by the press. Slot said: “The only thing I can say is that if I look at my line-ups Mo is more in than out.”I don’t think it distracts Mo at all, maybe it even brings the best out of him if you look at his performances until now.”Like I’ve said a few times already, my focus is the next game and another big game is coming up and it just keeps on going.”I talk to Mo about what I expect from him, like I do with all the other players, and he is in a good place at the moment. I’m not distracted by his comments and I don’t feel his team-mates are.”Liverpool will be desperate to end their rotten run against Real Madrid – managed by ex-Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti.Los Blancos have won seven of their last eight meetings – with a 0-0 draw in April 2021 – and last tasted defeat against the Reds in 2009. More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      How Liverpool replace Mo Salah – the five best options to succeed the record-breaking Egyptian King at Anfield

      by

      MO Salah is irreplaceable at Liverpool – but so were Kevin Keegan, Fernando Torres and Roberto Firmino.Salah is going to leave Anfield one day and if that day is soon, the Reds urgently need to find a player or players who can match the Egyptian winger’s incredible attacking contribution.Baring his soul – Mohamed Salah’s complaint about a lack of contract offer has Liverpool fans in a panicCredit: APWhen Keegan moved to Hamburg in 1977, Liverpool signed Kenny Dalglish from Celtic and the super Scot became a club legend as a player and manager.On the same transfer deadline day that Fernando Torres left for Chelsea for £50m, the Reds brought in Luis Suarez for £22.8 from Ajax.But the jury is still out on whether Darwin Nunez, who cost an initial £64m, will spearhead the club to the same level of achievement as previous No 9 Firmino.And finding someone to step into the shoes of Salah, Liverpool’s record Premier League and Champions League goalscorer, is arguably the greatest challenge Kop bosses have ever faced. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSalah’s contract situation puts his current employers in a tough situation.Chief executive of football Michael Edwards and director of football Richard Hughes will be doing their best to find a way to keep their main man at the club beyond next summer, when his existing contract expires.But regardless of the outcome of those negotiations, they will also have been working on a succession plan.Here SunSport looks at five leading pretenders to the throne of the Egyptian King.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMOHAMMED KUDUS – West HamThe Hammers’ left-footed Ghanaian international, 24, is probably the closest thing in the Premier League to a potential like-for-like replacement for Salah. Liverpool were sniffing around in the summer and are known to rate Kudus highly, although his numbers this season suffer badly from a five-game suspension. But reports of a release clause of £85m don’t help his cause when there may be better value elsewhere in the market.JOHAN BAKAYOKO – PSV EindhovenLeft-footed right winger? Check. Well-known to Arne Slot? Absolutely, after playing a big role in PSV dethroning Slot’s Feyenoord as Dutch champions. And an exciting young talent with the potential to become a superstar? At 21 and already a Belgium international, very much so. Bakayoko ticks a lot of boxes, including a contract that runs out in less than two years. PSV’s fee demands would determine how much of a gamble he is.KARIM-DAVID ADEYEMI – Borussia DortmundThe Reds have been keeping an eye on Adeyemi for a long time, since even before he joined Red Bull Salzburg as a 16 year old. After showing only flashes of his potential in his first two seasons at Dortmund, the Germany international, 22, really hit the ground running in this campaign before suffering an injury that has kept him out since October. His stats are miles off Salah’s – but so were Salah’s before he came to Liverpool.BRYAN MBEUMO – BrentfordThe least sexy option but could the versatile Cameroon international, 25, be the best? There are good reasons why Arsenal have also been linked with Mbeumo. He is tucked in just behind Erling Haaland and Salah this season in the race for the Golden Boot with eight goals, already almost matching his best Premier League tally. Would he get even better in a more front-foot team? With his contract up in 2026, it is a tempting punt.OMAR MARMOUSH – Eintracht FrankfurtWho better to replace the Egyptian King than his countryman, especially given the red-hot form he is in so far this season? READ MORE SUN STORIESWith 11 goals and seven assists in 11 Bundesliga matches, Marmoush is one of European football’s ’s hottest properties. Not being an out-and-out winger should not be a deal-breaker for a coach like Slot. But the price might be if competition for the 25 year old’s services proves really fierce. More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘How am I going to survive?’ asked non-league star after dream transfer into EFL turned into a nightmare

      by

      A NIGHTMARE summer transfer to Crawley Town left non-league striker Muhammadu Faal asking himself: “How am I going to survive?”From landing his dream move and putting a deposit down on a brand new house for his young family, to being told his contract was INVALID, Faal was left feeling depressed and ashamed.Muhammadu Faal was left worried about finances and work after Crawley let him go following a nightmare three monthsFaal was on top of the world when he was publicly announced as newly promoted League One side Crawley Town’s latest striker on July 22.It came 12 days after his cousin Liverpool star Joe Gomez watched on from the bench as England lost the Euros final to Spain.Faal told The Athletic: “It felt like my second bite of the cherry, my second chance. It seemed like the perfect opportunity.”But less than three months later, Faal’s attitude to football has changed. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSHe lost the opportunity to play at the highest level in his career so far when the EFL found his contract with Crawley was not valid.The agreement was a six-month contract with an 18-month extension option – which broke EFL rules as an extension period is not allowed to be longer than the initial deal.Faal then says there was told by Crawley’s football leadership that there was no room for renegotiation. A devastated Faal went to the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) for support, but was told that they couldn’t help.Most read in EFLFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe said: “I waited for the PFA, and within those three weeks I wondered, ‘How am I going to pay my bills? How am I going to just… survive? “I’ve got a wife, I’ve got a child, I’ve got rent to pay, bills to pay. How am I going to do this? What am I going to do?’”‘I was a zebra, Shane Duffy was Goldilocks’ – Norwich City star Kellen Fisher on wild Xmas partys, dinner with Delia and team-mates getting eggedMuhammadu Faal was involved in Crawley’s 6-3 preseason defeat to Crystal PalaceHe added: “When Crawley became interested, I thought that this was the chance of a lifetime. I couldn’t miss it. Great playing style, good manager… it doesn’t matter about the terms — I have to take it.”He has since received legal support from Muslim athlete collective Nujum Sport.But what happened before that? Faal signed the contract on July 15 and he completed his medical three days later, with signing pictures taken.The first stumbling block came when club sporting director Tobias Phoenix incorrectly told him he’d failed his medical.Faal recalled to The Athletic: “He told me ‘the deal’s off because you failed’. He said he didn’t want to disclose on what grounds.”But Crawley chiefs seemingly backtracked during a meeting with Faal and his agent just 24 hours later.The move was back on. That day, he was announced as a Crawley player, and appeared on the club’s social media channels.To Faal’s knowledge, at this point he was a Crawley player — though his agent was still pressing the club for a finalised copy of the contract.Setback after setback came again before he was told that he hasn’t been registered yet for a Carabao Cup against Swindon in August.Faal had paid the holding deposit on his dream home less than 48 hours before.He admitted that he was affected by the update — and didn’t perform up to his usual level in training.His senses were correct and he was let go by the club the next day.I felt ashamed, I felt embarrassed. I didn’t feel worthy. Although it wasn’t the case, I felt I’d failed.Muhammadu FaalThe problem was that the contract which Faal had signed was for six months, with an 18-month extension option. Under EFL rules, an extension is not allowed to be longer than the initial contracted period. The issue meant Faal could not be registered.Faal added: “I was in disbelief. My agent and I didn’t know how it could happen. I signed a contract. Surely you can’t just let me go?”At that point, I just wanted to give up football. I didn’t see the point of continuing. My life’s goal was to make it pro and do that to the best of my ability. “But every time I’ve taken the step, I’ve been met by problems outside my control. I love football, but it’s unfair as well.”The Hackney-born ace lost his deposit on the house, but bigger things were also at play.He was now jobless, with his mental health receiving a battering.The 6ft 5in striker explained: “I felt ashamed, I felt embarrassed. I didn’t feel worthy. Although it wasn’t the case, I felt I’d failed.”Faal of Barnet has had spells at Barnet, Enfield and MaidstoneAccording to Faal and his lawyer, his registration was not a key condition of the contract.Faal has since refused to sign the proof of termination document. He feels that he is owed that six-month contract — and is planning to take the club to an employment tribunal, according to The Athletic.In recent weeks, he has joined nearby Worthing to play games — dropping back down three divisions to return to the National League South. He now earns less money than he did before the Crawley move.Faal believes he has contracts with both Crawley and Worthing — but is allowed to play because he is only registered with the latter.When announcing his departure, on September 13, Crawley said Faal had joined Worthing for an “undisclosed fee”.But they would have been unable to receive money for him as an unregistered player — and is instead classed as a free transfer.Faal says Crawley told him that it was done to help the image of all parties involved.READ MORE SUN STORIESFaal began his career in Italy with Serie C side L’Aquila as an 18-year-old, making five senior appearances.He then enjoyed a series of free transfers to non-league sides Dulwich Hamlet, Kingstonian FC and Enfield Town. More

    • 175 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Who is Roy Keane’s daughter Leah and which England star is she engaged to?

      by

      ROY Keane joked that his daughter’s marriage could yet be cancelled after her fiancé scored on his England debut against Ireland in the Nation’s League.Here’s everything we know about Keano’s daughter Leah and her future husband — a rising star in the Three Lions set-up.Roy Keane with his daughter LeahCredit: officialkeane16 / InstagramWho is Leah Keane?Leah Keane is the daughter of former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland footballer Roy Keane.The former Red Devils captain has five children with his wife Theresa Doyle — Shannon, Caragh, Aidan, Leah and Alanna.Roy met his wife in 1992, when the midfielder was playing for Nottingham Forest under Brian Clough.Despite her initially not seeming impressed with “Roy Keane, the great footballer”, the couple eventually got together and married three years later.read more on roy keaneThe happy couple tied the knot in a private ceremony at the Church of Our Lady Crowned in Keane’s hometown of Mayfield, Cork, in 1997.Roy and Theresa went on to have five children together – with Roy referring to Leah as No4.She was born on July 12.The former midfielder has got Leah’s name tattooed on his right arm – along with that of his other four other children.Most read in FootballHowever, his wife’s name is not included in his inkings.Roy reportedly said: “The wife did ask me why didn’t I get hers.Man Utd ace Roy Keane declares WAR on noisy neighbours who use their leaf blowers before 8am”I said, ‘They’ll always be my kids but you won’t necessarily always be my wife,’ which she wasn’t too pleased about.”When he retired in 2006, before going into management, Roy initially planned on spending more time with his family.He wrote in his autobiography: “My plan when I first stopped was, we’re going to go on some family trips, we’re going to be like the Waltons.”We’re all going to spend time together, go walk in the park and after a month or two they didn’t have the same plan as me so I think they were kind of missing me going to work.Things can change very quickly in the Keane householdRoy KeaneITV”I got offered the job at Sunderland and I was away on a family holiday and my family were looking at me… not saying it directly but going we kind of enjoy your company but not too much of it so when the job came back up they were saying you should go for it.”Engagement to Taylor Harwood-BellisIn November 2024, Leah gained media attention due to her engagement to Taylor Harwood-Bellis.The defender plays for Southampton, having moved there from Manchester City, where he rose through the ranks of the academy from age six.Leah Keane is engaged to Taylor Harwood-BellisCredit: GettyTaylor captained England Under-21s to Euros glory in 2023, and was handed his first senior call-up by Lee Carsley in November 2024.He comes from a sporting family — the defender’s uncle Steve is Stockport’s president, and his twin sister Becky was a top basketball player.And his football-mad father Martin was Stockport’s mascot Vernon Bear for many a year.Asked about his family, starting with his costume-wearing dad, Taylor said: “He did it a few times to be fair, it wasn’t just once.Taylor Harwood-Bellis of England celebrating his goal against IrelandCredit: Rex“He must have been good at it. It was sad to see him stop.“My sister doesn’t play any more but she represented Great Britain. She was good at basketball. We’re a sporty family.”Funny future father-in-lawOn November 17, 2024, after Taylor scored against Ireland on his senior England debut, heading in the fifth in the 5-0 Wembley win, Roy mad a wisecrack about the defender marrying his daughter — or not.Roy Keane pictured with his children in 2000Credit: EmpicsITV host Mark Pougatch joked to Roy that the Southampton defender would be discussing his goal over Christmas dinner — especially as it took the Irishman three years to score for his country.But Roy immediately quipped back: “Bittersweet for me, this.”It [the wedding] is not done and dusted yet!”Things can change very quickly in the Keane household.READ MORE SUN STORIES”No, he’s a really nice kid, his family have done a good job.”It’s nice for him, it’s good for him, he’s a bit of a goal threat.” More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium expansion plans that could see pitch torn up as owner admits renovation ‘not easy’

      by

      EVEN the famous marble halls of Highbury had to be torn down to make way for improvements.Now Arsenal may have to tear up their pristine Emirates Stadium pitch to catch up to their rivals with their stadium falling behind the growing standards in the Premier League.Arsenal are considering renovating the Emirates StadiumCredit: EPAJosh Kroenke revealed that there has already been ‘internal conversations’ about work on the groundCredit: GettyThe Emirates was the second largest Premier League stadium when it was built in 2006Credit: GettyArsenal co-chair Josh Kroenke has revealed that there are already “internal conversations” about renovating Emirates Stadium – just 18 years after the ground was first opened.Speaking in July of this year, Kroenke told ESPN: “It would be premature to talk about any plans in depth, but the internal conversations are starting to occur about [the stadium].“It is not an easy renovation, but we see the possibilities of what’s there.”What’s there is a 60,000 seat stadium that is already beginning to look outdated and perhaps too small for the Gunners’ growing fanbase.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhy now?When the Emirates was first constructed back in 2006, its 60,704-seat capacity made it the second largest ground in the Premier League – lagging only behind Old Trafford’s mammoth 76,000 capacity.Now it sits as the FIFTH largest in the league after Tottenham constructed their new 62,850-seat home, Liverpool expanded their Anfield capacity and West Ham moved into the London Stadium.While the Gunners will slip even further down that list in the near future as Man City continue work to expand the North Stand at the Etihad and Aston Villa plan to increase the capacity of Villa Park.The future could be even more bleak with rumours of Newcastle, Chelsea and Man Utd all looking to secure new homes or expand their current grounds in the coming years.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArsenal won’t just want to keep up with the pack but will also want to cram as many of their fans into the ground as they can.The north London club sell out the Emirates every week and have well in excess of 100,000 fans patiently waiting on the season ticket waiting list.While there’s already been significant signs of wear and tear with a leaking roof soaking supporters on multiple occasions. Arsenal boasted the second largest capacity in the Premier League when the Emirates Stadium was first builtThe Gunners are now fifth in terms of stadium sizeThey could slip down to ninth by 2030 with teams moving stadiums and renovating their current homesHow could it be expanded?There’s long been speculation that the Emirates can’t be built upon and that Arsenal would be stuck with their current capacity for the foreseeable. However, it’s now claimed by some that there’s two possible ways that chiefs at the club could fit in some more seats.One route would be to remove the roof – which isn’t significantly attached to the stadium’s main bowl – and either add additional rows to the existing fourth tier or a build a brand new fifth tier on top.While a different option that has been suggested is to DIG DOWN on the pitch and add additional seating in the space between the current front row and the edge of the pitch.This idea was already used by Arsenal’s owners when they built the incredible 70,000-seat SoFi stadium in the USA, home of NFL team the LA Rams.It’s not known exactly what size the Emirates could be expanded to but rumours have suggested that the expansion could extend the capacity to somewhere between 75,000 and 80,000.Artificial Intelligence has mocked up what an extra tier on top of the Stadium could look likeArsenal could be able to significantly increase their capacityAI also imagined what sinking the pitch to add more lower seats would look likeWhat else could be improved?Arsenal have already made some improvement to the stadium in recent times.Just last season they redesigned the entire facade with new artwork, as well as bringing in new big screens for fans to watch replays and working on the leaky roof.But fans will be hoping there can be improvements to the concourses with a lack of efficiency in the bathrooms and bars leaving supporters missing goals when they’re grabbing their half-time pint.The club have introduced new self-service bars, but there is certainly more that could be done to enhance the fan experience.Supporters will also be hoping for a new statue on the outside of the ground to join Arsene Wenger, Herbert Chapman, Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp and Tony Adams in being immortalised in bronze in N5.Perhaps an Ian Wright or David Rocastle statue may soon follow.AI predicted what a 360 screen would look like inside the EmiratesArsenal’s owners put a similar screen inside the SoFi Stadium in LACredit: GettyArsenal could add some more statues to the exterior of the groundCredit: GettyA number of Gunners legends are immortalised in bronzeCredit: Getty – ContributorArsenal redesigned their facade last seasonCredit: PAChallenges of revamping stadium?Josh Kroenke has already said that any renovation wouldn’t be “easy”, and other clubs have shown the downside of what could happen.Both Liverpool and Fulham had to play in front of reduced crowds while upgrading their stands, meaning decreased matchday revenue.Arsenal may also have to foot the bill for increasing the capacity of local transport links if they upped the capacity of the Emirates.Their 2006 construction saw they pay for improvements to Highbury & Islington and Finsbury Park stations.But an expansion could mean changes were needed at Arsenal, Holloway Road and Drayton Park – with the last two currently closed on matchdays.Arsenal could be forced to fork out big money to improve local infrastructure if they increased their capacityCredit: GettyThe stadium already caused backlog in the local areaCredit: ReutersLiverpool were forced to play with a reduced capacity during their renovation of the Anfield Road StandCredit: GettyHow much would it cost?Other expansions in the Premier League have not come cheap.Liverpool spent £80m to extend the Anfield Road Stand, Fulham splashed around £120m to revamp the Riverside Stand and Man City are in the midst of a £300m change to the Eithad.The Emirates only cost £390m to build in the early 2000’s and an expansion could run them somewhere close to that figure again.Is is worth it? With increasingly strict FFP and PSR regulations being put in place clubs are having to try and boost their revenue as much as possible.Selling tickets is one of the biggest ways to rack up some more cash with north London neighbours Spurs raking in a whopping £4.8MILLION per home game since they moved into their new stadium.During the 2022/23 season Arsenal made a total of £102.6m across 24 home fixtures, that’s £4.28m per game.Should they increase their capacity to 75,000 – a 23.5 per cent increase – then the same increase in revenue could see them make £5.28MILLION per game in the future.Obviously it wouldn’t be quite as simple as that but it gives an idea of the increase Arsenal could see should they go ahead with the renovation.Arsenal have a huge season ticket waiting list that would snap up any more seatsCredit: GettyTottenham are making a killing on a matchday since moving into their new homeCredit: GettyFulham’s expansion will help increase their revenue going forwardCredit: GettyStadium timeline?It’s impossible to know exactly how long an expansion would take without knowing which option Arsenal would choose to carry out.However, Liverpool’s Anfield Road Stand expansion is an example of just one stand taking over three years to complete.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile Barcelona are adding a new third tier which wraps around the entire stadium as part of a project that is expected to take the best part of four years.Arsenal could see themselves playing under a reduced capacity for the duration of the construction.Arsenal would likely have to play with a reduced capacity while work was completedCredit: Getty More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal transfer blow as Barcelona make Isak top transfer target with Gyokeres set to snub Nou Camp for Man Utd move

      by

      BARCELONA have made Alexander Isak their number one summer target, SunSport can reveal.The Spanish giants will make a mega-money offer for the Newcastle striker at the end of the season.Barcelona have identified Alexander Isak as a top transfer targetCredit: GettyViktor Gyokeres has his sights set on a move to the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyIt comes days after Eddie Howe said Sweden star Isak could go on to be one of the world’s best forwards.Directors at the Nou Camp have switched their focus to Isak after learning they will struggle to secure the services of his international team-mate Viktor Gyokeres – another player they covet.SunSport understands Sporting Lisbon striker Gyokeres has his heart set on a move to the Premier League and a reunion with ex-boss Ruben Amorim at Manchester United.But Isak is viewed as a plan B by Barcelona who think he can help lead them to success in Spain and in Europe.Read More in FootballArsenal have also been heavily linked with a move for Isak, who is yet to agree terms for a new deal with Newcastle.He is said to be one of Mikel Arteta’s top targets for 2026.Last week, speaking in the build up to their game with West Ham, Newcastle manager Howe said: “He’s building momentum into his season and has scored some big goals of late for us. His general performances I think have continued to improve.“He’s gone away to Sweden and played very well, I’m delighted with how he has looked on international duty as well, to continue that good form.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“I think being a striker, having not been one myself, but just from my experience it’s all about confidence and how you feel.“Alex has got undoubted qualities. I would put him right up there in terms of world strikers that are currently playing.”Rúben Amorim talks about the future of Viktor Gyökeres at Sporting Asked if he could be the best in the world, Howe added: “I feel that his potential is great.“I think he can really, if he can continue on the path he has been the last few seasons, continue to go and prove himself as one of the world’s best.”That would be, without putting pressure on him, my target if I was him. More