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      Chelsea ratings: Cole Palmer leads the way again but Caicedo has a shocker as he gives away penalty

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      CHELSEA were made to rue their missed chances after a fantastic first half fizzled into a frustrating draw at Stamford Bridge.Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson were on fire in the first 45, only for the Senegalese forward to let his side down through a number of wayward shots.Cole Palmer netted an ice-cool opener against BournemouthCredit: GettyReece James climbed off the bench to score a stunning late free-kick to ensure Chelsea earned a pointCredit: GettyAs has been the story here this season the Blues failed to capitalise on their dominance and Bournemouth found their way back into the game from the penalty spot.But, as has been the story here this season Chelsea and Jackson failed to capitalise on their dominance and Bournemouth found their way back into the game from the penalty spot.The Cherries got on top of the Blues from there, and a left-footed peach from Antoine Semenyo fired them into a 2-1 lead, with it looking as though the three points were headed back to the seaside.That was until substitute Reece James fired in a free-kick at the death which saw it end level at 2-2, which sees Chelsea now winless in their last FOUR Premier League games.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHere’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players…Robert Sanchez – 5His (or Enzo Maresca’s) insistence on playing the “riskiest pass in football” almost cost his side in the first half, but he wasn’t caught out on this occasion.Couldn’t do an awful lot about either of the goals, a pretty average performance.Moises Caicedo –  3Was solid in the first half if not a little fortunate not to be booked for a few “tactical” fouls. Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSHowever, he got caught out in the second 45 and gave away a penalty through a poorly timed tackle on Semenyo.Not the kind of performance we’ve become accustomed to seeing from him as his passes too often went astray.Enzo Maresca admits Chelsea a long way from competing with Premier League’s best after loss to Ipswich Josh Acheampong – 5Made a few good blocks and tackles in the first half, but was easily beaten by Semenyo before he smashed home the goal that put Bournemouth in the lead.Looked a little inexperienced out there, but you can tell he has quality – was taken off for Tosin in the second half shortly after the goal, who you would imagine will take the starting spot going forward. Levi Colwill – 6Imperious in the air and across the ground in the first half. Didn’t do a lot wrong truth be told, but no clean sheet cost him a higher score.Marc Cucurella – 6Stepped into his tackles well and was solid throughout the game, keeping David Brooks quiet on the right for Bournemouth.Wasn’t as influential in an attacking sense as we have seen him be this season, but still did a decent job.Romeo Lavia – 5Dominant in midfield in the first half, and was brilliant in transition, looking like a master of his craft.Unfortunately, a second-half mistake saw him caught out which led to the Bournemouth penalty before he was then booked for a late tackle.Was taken off shortly after he was booked and replaced by Reece James.Enzo Fernández (c)  – 6Worked well as he had done previously when given the license to roam forward, knowing he had Lavia and Caicedo behind him.Bournemouth’s midfield had no answer to him with the ball at his feet, but as for many of the Blues, he was much quieter in the second half. Noni Madueke – 6Arguably deserved a first-half assist after he left a defender on the floor with a mazy run from the right-hand side, but Nicolas Jackson fluffed his lines in front of goal.Continued his good work on the ball in the second half and generally created some good chances that weren’t finished.Cole Palmer  – 8Looked like he was out to impress from the start, with a cheeky nutmeg followed by a Lampard vs Hull-esque dink early on which didn’t come off.This was all before the 12th minute where he sat interim goalkeeper Mark Travers on his backside with a fake shot before slotting home for the opening goal.He created good chances too for Jackson, but faded pretty heavily after his goal.Jadon Sancho – 4Two nutmegs in quick succession was the highlight of his first half, but he was pretty quiet throughout the 90 minutes.Nicolas Jackson – 6His first half performance would have had fans raving about how he is the second coming of Didier Drogba.But his second half reminded us of why he’s not, with two huge bites at the Cherries missed that ultimately cost his side.SUBS:Reece James (Romeo Lavia, 56) – 8Made the perfect comeback from his injury woes, with a rocket of a free-kick guided into the bottom right corner.Looked strong and composed on the ball after his introduction.Tosin Adarabioyo (Josh Acheampong, 71) – 7Brought a bit more presence and leadership to a Chelsea team that looked as though it was lacking exactly that tonight.Had a good header saved by Travers at the death, you’d imagine he will be starting against Wolves.Joao Felix (Moises Caicedo, 80) – 6Did really well with limited minutes on the pitch after being bought on.READ MORE SUN STORIESA tame effort on goal was saved by the Bournemouth keeper, but it was his mazy dribbling that won the free-kick that James fired home to equalise.Pedro Neto (Noni Madueke, 80) – 5Didn’t get long enough to properly warm into the game and Chelsea didn’t find him enough, could probably count his touches on your fingers. 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      Chelsea 2 Bournemouth 2: Reece James scores stunning last gasp free-kick but Blues’ winless run extends to five games

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      THOMAS TUCHEL returned to the scene of the maddest 20 months of his career to run the rule over a new generation of English Chelsea stars.He got that alright and also a reminder that while there are many different names on the team-sheet, things haven’t changed that much at Stamford Bridge.Reece James was the hero at Stamford BridgeCredit: GettyAfter Cole Palmer set the stage for an exhibition style win with his delightful goal on 14 minutes, the night turned on its head.Injury hit Bournemouth levelled from the penalty spot and then went ahead through a demonstration of power and experience that shook Enzo Maresca’s young team.And it was the most unlikely Englishman who stole the show when forgotten man Reece James struck the 95th minute free kick that rescued a point for Chelsea and kept his team clinging onto a place in the top four for now at least.James was the only man in the squad still here from when Tuchel was boss – which shows how quickly people move on at this club.READ MORE IN football And the homegrown defender who dreamed of being England’s first choice right back but has missed two major tournaments due to injury upstaged all the newbies with his last-gasp act of salvation.What should have been a first Premier League win at home since mid-December was transformed into a backs-against-the-wall, nerve-jangling night for the manager until skipper James struck.But while James and his team-mates wheeled away in equal delight and relief to avoid defeat it’s nothing to shout about.Chelsea came close to crumbling against the smallest team in the top flight who rocked up with no recognised striker in the starting line up and six academy kids on the bench.Most read in FootballCole Palmer opened the scoring for ChelseaCredit: GettyHe pulled off his trademark celebrationCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThey also had to leave first choice keeper Kepa at home because he is on loan from Chelsea.What notes Tuchel did take from his vantage point in the comfy seats would not have been too complimentary about yet another slipshod display from the big-spending Blues.How Spurs can destroy Arsenal’s title hopes with Ange Postecoglou ‘wheels of chaos’ tacticThe German was back for the first time since being sacked in September 2022 – a year or so after winning the Champions League for Chelsea.He then held the club together when it almost went out of business following the emergency exile of former owner Roman Abramovich when war kicked off between Russia and Ukraine.Chelsea threatened to collapse at the time and it was similar on the pitch yet again following defeats to Ipswich and Fulham and draws against Crystal Palace and Everton in recent weeks.Palmer, one of England’s bright notes at Euro 2024 in Tuchel’s homeland last summer, shone briefly.Chelsea player ratings vs BournemouthCHELSEA failed to win for their fourth Prem outing in a row as they drew 2-2 with Bournemouth.Having taken the lead through Cole Palmer, things went very wrong in the second half.Justin Kluivert scored from the spot after a poor challenge from Moise Caicedo led to the penalty. Antoine Semenyo then put the Cherries in front.But up stepped Reece James to fire in a brilliant 95th minute penalty and salvage a point.Here’s how the players rated…Robert Sanchez – 5His (or Enzo Maresca’s) insistence on playing the “riskiest pass in football” almost cost his side in the first half, but he wasn’t caught out on this occasion. Couldn’t do an awful lot about either of the goals, a pretty average performance.Moises Caicedo – 3Was solid in the first half if not a little fortunate not to be booked for a few “tactical” fouls. However, he got caught out in the second 45 and gave away a penalty through a poorly timed tackle on Semenyo. Not the kind of performance we’ve become accustomed to seeing from him as his passes too often went astray.Josh Acheampong – 5Made a few good blocks and tackles in the first half, but was easily beaten by Semenyo before he smashed home the goal that put Bournemouth in the lead. Looked a little inexperienced out there, but you can tell he has quality – was taken off for Tosin in the second half shortly after the goal, who you would imagine will take the starting spot going forward.Levi Colwill – 6Imperious in the air and across the ground in the first half. Didn’t do a lot wrong truth be told, but no clean sheet cost him a higher score.Marc Cucurella – 6Stepped into his tackles well and was solid throughout the game, keeping David Brooks quiet on the right for Bournemouth. Wasn’t as influential in an attacking sense as we have seen him be this season, but still did a decent job.Romeo Lavia – 5Dominant in midfield in the first half, and was brilliant in transition, looking like a master of his craft. Unfortunately, a second-half mistake saw him caught out which led to the Bournemouth penalty before he was then booked for a late tackle. Was taken off shortly after he was booked and replaced by Reece James.Enzo Fernández (c) – 6Worked well as he had done previously when given the license to roam forward, knowing he had Lavia and Caicedo behind him. Bournemouth’s midfield had no answer to him with the ball at his feet, but as for many of the Blues, he was much quieter in the second half.Noni Madueke – 6Arguably deserved a first-half assist after he left a defender on the floor with a mazy run from the right-hand side, but Nicolas Jackson fluffed his lines in front of goal. Continued his good work on the ball in the second half and generally created some good chances that weren’t finished.Cole Palmer – 8Looked like he was out to impress from the start, with a cheeky nutmeg followed by a Lampard vs Hull-esque dink early on which didn’t come off. This was all before the 12th minute where he sat interim goalkeeper Mark Travers on his backside with a fake shot before slotting home for the opening goal. He created good chances too for Jackson, but faded pretty heavily after his goal.Jadon Sancho – 4Two nutmegs in quick succession was the highlight of his first half, but he was pretty quiet throughout the 90 minutes.Nicolas Jackson – 6His first half performance would have had fans raving about how he is the second coming of Didier Drogba. But his second half reminded us of why he’s not, with two huge bites at the Cherries missed that ultimately cost his side.SUBSReece James (Romeo Lavia, 56) – 8Made the perfect comeback from his injury woes, with a rocket of a free-kick guided into the bottom right corner. Looked strong and composed on the ball after his introduction.Tosin Adarabioyo (Josh Acheampong, 71) – 7Brought a bit more presence and leadership to a Chelsea team that looked as though it was lacking exactly that tonight. Had a good header saved by Travers at the death, you’d imagine he will be starting against Wolves.Joao Felix (Moises Caicedo, 80) – 6Did really well with limited minutes on the pitch after being bought on. A tame effort on goal was saved by the Bournemouth keeper, but it was his mazy dribbling that won the free-kick that James fired home to equalise.Pedro Neto (Noni Madueke, 80) – 5Didn’t get long enough to properly warm into the game and Chelsea didn’t find him enough, could probably count his touches on your fingers.In addition to his classy goal early on, he went narrowly wide with a delicate chip moments earlier.His England team-mates Levi Colwill and Noni Madueke – perhaps even forgotten international Jadon Sancho – also had the chance to shine in front of the new England head coach.But after going ahead, yet again boss Maresca was left grasping for what little hair he has, with the way his team slowly ground to a halt.Justin Kluivert levelled from the penalty spotCredit: ReutersKluivert made no mistake from 12 yardsCredit: GettyTo sum up the frenetic pace of the game which Tuchel will have enjoyed, Justin Kluivert hit the post for Bournemouth and Nicolas Jackson did the same at the other end in less than 30 seconds.Jackson is an enigma at this club. Scores goals and works damned hard. He generated the breakthrough from which Palmer put the home side ahead.But he misses so many chances. And duly obliged in the first half after cracking work on the wing by England wideman Noni Madueke. Skewing a close range shot over the bar.Maresca toyed with his line up too like his opposite number Andoni Iraola. Placing Moises Caicedo as right back turned midfielder and it wasn’t a happy ending.His best tackler went in a bit too hard on Antoine Semenyo in the box and ref Rob Jones awarded a clear penalty.Antoine Semenyo gave Bournemouth a shock leadCredit: GettyThe game was turned on its headCredit: GettyKluivert sent Robert Sanchez the wrong way to square things up. And that’s when Chelsea got rattled.Palmer disappeared, Colwill was limping. Madueke was plugging away but getting nowhere.And Bournemouth seized their moment in the 68th minute when Semenyo was put through again in the box and brushed off rookie Josh Acheampong with ease.It was a lesson in maturity and strength for the teenager who was immediately hooked once the Cherries man had blasted an unstoppable shot past Sanchez.Bournemouth rode their luck when David Brooks was lucky to stay on after appearing to whack Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella.Ref Rob Jones can only have missed the original incident as he was summoned by VAR to the pitchside monitor then handed the midfielder a yellow card when everyone expected a red. It was deemed reckless and not violent conduct but still a strange sight to see.READ MORE SUN STORIESNonetheless, Bournemouth held on and at one point were leading, level on points with Chesea and sending Maresca’s expensive team tumbling out of the Champions League places until James delivered from a set-piece.Joao Felix was pulled down outside the box and from almost 30 yards, James sent a reminder that he isn’t quite finished yet but curling home a stunning shot into the opposite corner.James salvaged a late pointCredit: GettyJames saved Chelsea from a disappointing defeatCredit: Reuters More

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      Brentford 2 Man City 2: Champions throw away two-goal lead in more misery for Pep Guardiola after marriage split

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      JUST when it looked as though City were back in the title race, they shot themselves in the foot.And this one might really kill any Etihad momentum stone dead.Manchester CIty manager Pep Guardiola’s week got even worseCredit: RexPhil Foden scored a brace for Man City and thought he won itCredit: AlamyYoane Wissa put Brentford back in the game late in the game against Man CityCredit: PAChristian Norgaard equalised for Brentford to add to Guardiola’s woesCredit: GettyTwo up with just a few minutes to play after a Phil Foden double, and with Kevin De Bruyne at the heart of everything that was good about their performance, City were on the verge of a fourth straight win.The monster, it seemed, was starting to awaken.A fact that would have chilled the blood of all the teams ahead of Pep Guardiola’s men.Yet what happened next did not defy belief.Read More on FootballNot when you consider how poorly City have defended for so much of this season, as was again evidenced at the Gtech Community Stadium.From control and a guaranteed three points, it all went absolutely pear-shaped.First, appalling defending allowed the unmarked Yoane Wissa, found in front of goal, to fire into a gaping net.Then, at the start of stoppage time, Christian Norgaard headed through the hands of Stefan Ortega to level.Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesAnd if it had not been for Nathan Ake’s second goal line clearance of the night, this time to foil Bryan Mbeumo, the wheels would really have fallen off the City chariot.Even so, this must have felt like a defeat for Guardiola – as it felt like a win for Brentford.Pep Guardiola ‘SPLITS from wife after 30 years and three children together’ according to reports in SpainWhat will hurt Guardiola most, of course, is that his side appeared to have done the hard work.With De Bruyne returning to his sparkling, effervescent best and Foden scoring twice at the ground where he claimed a Prem hat-trick last term, normal service looked like being returned.Foden’s first was utterly exquisite, as was the role of De Bruyne.Throughout an enthralling 90 minutes, the Belgian had stood out amid the mayhem with his calm precision.For more than an hour, it added up to nothing as a series of openings were squandered.Missed opportunitiesErling Haaland, Matheus Nunes and Savinho were all guilty.The Norwegian twice aimed straight at Mark Flekken, Nunes took forever and a day and was robbed before he shot, Savinho drilled over before hitting the post in the second half – leaving Guardiola increasingly perplexed in his technical area.Yet that all changed when Savinho picked up the ball in midfield, De Bruyne instinctively drifting right, finding those clever pockets of space as he had done all night.This time, the cross was met by a glorious cushioned finish from the inside of Foden’s left foot.The England man – who waited until December 21 to break his Prem duck for the season – added a second, when Savinho’s cross deflected into his path.Game over? Surely – and the City fans, who sang in honour of one of the club’s local heroes, following the sad death of Tony Book, before the start, had a modern day one to serenade.What followed, though, was not in the script – although hardly out of keeping.Falling apartFor most of the match, Brentford had chiselled out openings but been unable to take them, Wissa and Mbeumo constant threats.Indeed, even after the Foden opener, only a stunning effort by Ake, with Ortega already rounded by Mbeumo, had denied Wissa.Earlier, Ortega had made a fine low save to deny Mbeumo, Wissa was twice narrowly off target, Nathan Collins had headed inches wide.Foden’s second should have put an end to any of that.Yet instead of calm control, City folded in spectacular style, to Guardiola’s sheer disbelief.Josko Gvardiol had earlier made a terrific and vital block to thwart Wissa but he was absent without leave when Mathias Jensen floated to the far post and Mads Roerslev served it up on a plate for Wissa.Brentford comebackAnd in a madcap finale that saw openings at both ends, penalty shouts and sheer chaos, it was the Bees who did the stinging.Norgaard’s header after he had been found by Keane Lewis-Potter really should have been kept out by Ortega. If you get your hands to the ball, it should not go in.And the City keeper was scrambling in no man’s land as Mbeumo’s last-gasp effort header for the far corner, only for Ake’s head to prevent total collapse.The Gtech went loco, rightly so. Thomas Frank congratulating each and every one of his players in the home dressing room.READ MORE SUN STORIESFor City, though, it was a devastating blow, perhaps the final one to their title chances. They cannot afford mistakes. And this was a huge one.The poor result added to Guardiola’s woes shortly after it was reported that he split from his wife of 30 years.Guardiola couldn’t hide his frustrations after Man City’s latest slip More

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      West Ham 3 Fulham 2: Graham Potter wins first Prem game with Hammers after Leno blunder in five-goal thriller

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      THREE training sessions, five players out but one hell of an impact.Graham Potter delivered the most convincing West Ham performance of the season in his first Premier League game in charge.Lucas Paqueta celebrates what proved the winning goalCredit: ReutersCarlos Soler angled West Ham in front on 31 minutesCredit: GettyGraham Potter saw the Hammers hold on for victoryCredit: PAThe Hammers fed off some comical Fulham defending but also finally showed some energy having looked so lethargic under axed Julen Lopetegui.Carlos Soler, Tomas Soucek and Lucas Paqueta all stepped up to score for a squad shorn of strikers to end Fulham’s eight game unbeaten run.There were still things to work on, as Alex Iwobi managed to score from not one but two crosses.But, given where they have come from, this was a big night for West Ham and Potter.MOST READ IN FOOTBALLInjuries to Niclas Fullkrug, Crysencio Summerville, Jarrod Bowen and Michail Antonio left the new manager with very little in terms of attacking options.Potter – who suffered defeat in his first game at Aston Villa on Friday – had just one senior striker in his squad, Danny Ings, but opted to leave the forward on the bench.Instead, Brazilian Paqueta was leading the line, with Soler pushed out to the left wing.While what to do up top was the pressing issue on the night, West Ham’s bigger problems have been at the back.Most read in FootballTomas Soucek hails his goal as West Ham triumphedCredit: GettySoucek doubled the Hammers’ leadCredit: GettyJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThat was exposed after just six minutes, when Iwobi was allowed to drift in behind the back line and cross for an unmarked Harry Wilson, who smacked an effort against the bar.Fulham were in control and racking up the chances.Where it went wrong for Julen Lopetegui at West HamEmile Smith Rowe had a couple of openings, Raul Jimenez should have done better with another and Antonee Robinson dragged one wide of the far post on the break.It looked a matter of time before they were ahead, but suddenly West Ham settled, surged and stunned Fulham.Max Kilman had a goal ruled out for offside from a Soler free-kick, but it gave them confidence.After a spell of pressure and some incredibly generous football from the visitors, Soler had them ahead.Bernd Leno played a ball to Pereira, under pressure just inside the Fulham box.His suicidal first time ball across the box smacked of a player and team who thought this would be an easy ride – and cost them dearly.It fell straight to Soler who met it first time with a composed finish – his first goal for the club.The Spaniard arrived highly rated but has failed to make any sort of impact until now.But, playing out of position, Soler suddenly looked full of confidence and was involved in the second goal just two minutes later.Having collected the ball from Lukasz Fabianski, Kilman sent a long ball towards Paqueta, whose flick on found Kudus.Raul Jimenez tried to claim he got the final touch after Alex Iwobi curled a cross straight in to cut Fulham’s deficitCredit: RexThe winger drifted inside and fed Soler. His ball across to the other side of the box left Fulham in a twist and was met by Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who cut back for skipper Soucek to finish high into the net first time.This was a big change from the West Ham of the last five months.And while they were still giving up chances, Jimenez clipping the top of the bar with a header at the far post, there was an intensity that has been absent for too long.But it is naïve to expect a new boss to fix everything at once. Another of West Ham’s multiple issues this season has been conceding after the break. And they managed it again here.Just six minutes after the restart, Fulham found a way back.Under little pressure, Iwobi drifted inside and clipped a cross for Jimenez, who just missed getting a touch on the ball but did enough to put Fabianski off and allow the ball to drift in.Despite that soft touch just after the break, West Ham responded well to conceding – another element which has been lacking this term.Having stayed solid, they were rewarded with another almighty Fulham balls-up.Joachim Andersen rolled the ball back to Leno who dawdled under pressure from Ings, just on for Kudus.Ings’ challenge landed the ball with Paqueta who finished into an unguarded net.West Ham looked comfortable, for a while at least. Having not learned that an Iwobi cross can be dangerous from earlier in the game – they allowed him another, from which he scored again.This was a clipped ball for Wilson, whose attempt to head the ball saw him duck out the way but again causing enough trouble for it to find the back of the net.READ MORE SUN STORIESJimenez, Sasa Lukic and Adama Traore all had big chances for a leveller as the Hammers held on, but the hosts just crawled over the line.Nothing is ever simple at West Ham, as Potter is finding out.Harry Wilson watched another Iwobi cross drift in for Fulham’s secondCredit: Reuters More

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      How ‘seductive’ Man City boss Pep Guardiola wooed wife Cristina away from her TV career – and took her advice on tactics

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      MANCHESTER City boss Pep Guardiola has been so stressed out in recent months he has sworn at autograph hunters and bled from scratching his head.He is suffering the worst run of results in an impeccable career.’Seductive’ Man City boss Pep Guardiola wooed wife Cristina away from her TV career – and took her advice on tacticsCredit: RexThe announcement of their break-up was preceded by his worst ever run as a managerCredit: GettyAfter winning six Premier League titles in seven years, his usually invincible team went seven games without a victory. And they’ve had just three victories in the last ten Prem matches.But now it seems his bizarre behaviour could also be a response to the end of his marriage to teenage sweetheart Cristina Serra.It was revealed this week that the 53-year-old football legend has split from the mother of his three children after 30 years.READ MORE ON Pep Guardiola The couple were said to have called it a day FIVE YEARS ago but kept the news under wraps until officially parting ways last month.A well-informed source in Pep’s homeland of Spain said: “I can assure you they’re living apart and only a handful of people knew about this.”The announcement of the break-up was preceded by his worst ever run as a manager, with his once invincible side losing five games in a row before Christmas.‘Already seductive’There had been rumours that all was not been well with the relationship for a while.Most read in FootballIn 2019, Cristina, 52, moved back to Barcelona with the couple’s youngest daughter, Valentina, 17, while Pep stayed in Manchester.But in public, Pep’s love for Cristina, who he married in 2014, seemed to be as strong as ever.Pep Guardiola ‘SPLITS from wife after 30 years and three children together’ according to reports in SpainThey spent this Christmas together and were in the Royal Box on Centre Court at Wimbledon last summer, after previously being spotted on idyllic holidays and sharing an emotional kiss after Man City won the Champions League for the first time in 2023.He has credited his wife with his great sense of fashion and for bringing up his children.Brazilian Cristina was so important to the Spaniard that he refused to join any team without her say-so.In a rare personal interview in 2018, he said: “Only at home I feel safe. I mean safe in terms of not being observed. I close the door and I feel safe.“My job is demanding a lot. Cristina is an incredible woman, not just an incredible mother.“If we were talking about moving to New York, Munich and here, if she decides not to come, I won’t come. I will not be here, I cannot be alone in this kind of job without my family.”The romance began when an 18-year-old Pep went to a fashion store in Barcelona owned by Cristina’s family to model some outfits by Spanish designer Antonio Miro. At the time, he was playing for Barcelona’s B team, while she was an actress who had appeared on Spanish TV.Pep’s sister Francesca once said: “He was very handsome, a good student, always getting good marks, the teachers drooled over him, he was already seductive when he was little.”I can assure you they’re living apart and only a handful of people knew about thisWell-informed source in Pep’s homeland of Spain Cristina gave up acting to concentrate on her successful clothing business and is now said to be worth over £30million.Meanwhile, Pep established himself as one of the best midfielders of his generation, winning multiple titles with Barcelona’s first team.But in 2001 he tested positive for the prohibited steroid nandrolone and was banned from playing for four months. Cristina is said to have been his rock during this time, and put out a statement defending her husband, who always denied doping. It took him another six years to clear his name on appeal.Pep was known as “Perfecto” due to his obsession with the game — and he did not approve of team-mates putting their social lives first.When he retired as a player in 2006 it did not lead to more time with Cristina as he jumped straight into management with Barcelona’s B team.As a result, Pep was even more consumed by tactics, to the point that he could not hold a conversation about other subjects for more than half an hour.His friend Manel Estiarte told The Times in 2016: “You invite him for a meal in a restaurant, but after 32 minutes you can see his mind is already wandering.There had been rumours that all was not been well with the couple’s relationship for a while (pictured after Pep’s Champions League victory in 2023)Credit: GettyFans were concerned when a cut appeared on his nose and there were scratch marks on his forehead“He starts staring at the ceiling and, although he’s nodding as if he’s listening to you, he’s not looking at you. In actual fact he’s probably thinking about the opposition left-back, the marking scheme for the midfielder, how much the wingers can support the inside forwards.”The manager has admitted that he can also drift off into a world of his own when he is at home with his wife and children.He said: “My family know that I am there but I am not there. Sometimes I’m at home but not at home.“They call ‘Pep, Pep’ but they know I am in my own world.”Pep’s dedication to his job has more than paid off. He became the youngest manager to win the Champions League in 2009, lifting the most sought-after trophy in his first season in charge of Barcelona’s first team.The demands of day-to-day management took their toll though, and in 2012 he quit as boss in order to take a year out. He admitted: “I’m drained and I need to fill up.”That gave the family a chance to enjoy a more relaxed life in New York, where they went around unrecognised as they visited art galleries and hung out in cafes.‘My wife is so elegant’But the Premier League’s top clubs, including Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea, were all chasing him. He turned them down in favour of German giants Bayern Munich in 2013, whose stars included Dutch winger Arjen Robben.While at the Bundesliga team he told the Press that Cristina gave her opinion about his starting line-up. Smiling, he said: “My wife is more complicated than Robben. Cristina sometimes complains about my tactical decisions.“She tells me to repeat the 11 with which I won the last match. To explain to her my system of rotation is more difficult than telling Robben, ‘Today you’re a substitute’.”Cristina also made her views known about the well-dressed Pep’s sartorial choices. He said: “My wife is so elegant, she helps me a lot. Before, I was a disaster. But now I am elegant thanks to her.”My wife is more complicated than Robben. Cristina sometimes complains about my tactical decisionsBut it took two decades before Pep made Cristina his wife, with the couple getting hitched at a civil ceremony in 2014 in Matadepera, Catalonia.That was followed by a move to Manchester two years later when he became City boss.The family lived a plush apartment in Salford, not far from the centre, with their children Maria, 24, Marius, 22, and Valentina.During the short breaks between the stressful football seasons they would take holidays in exclusive resorts in Mauritius and Barbados.But in 2019, Pep’s statement that he would only go where his wife did no longer appeared to stand.Cristina moved back to Barcelona to look after the fashion business while he remained in Manchester.The new living arrangements coincided with a string of defeats for City, and at the end of the 2019/20 season they lost the Premier League to Liverpool.The couple were said to have called it a day FIVE YEARS ago but kept the news under wraps until officially parting ways last monthCredit: RexMaria went to study in London and is now a social media influencer whose boyfriends have been rumoured to include former England player Dele Alli. Marius lives in Dubai, where he runs a marketing and publicity company.That appears to leave Pep alone in his £2.7million apartment in Deansgate CitySuites, central Manchester. Cristina remains the patron of their charitable foundation, Fundacion Guardiola Sala, and is expected to keep the £8million mansion they own in Barcelona.The break-up is said to be amicable and not due to any affairs.Tonight Pep was even seen still wearing his wedding ring at City’s match against Brentford.Spanish reporter Lorena Vazquez said: “It’s been a carefully considered decision the couple discussed over several months.“They continue to have a cordial and affectionate relationship. No one else is involved. There are no third parties.” Last summer he showed signs of irritation when he confronted young men asking for autographs near his flat. Pep told them: “Don’t come again, I won’t tell you again, I know your faces.”Fans were concerned when a cut appeared on his nose and there were scratch marks on his forehead.Following a draw in the Champions League in November, he addressed the marks by commenting: “I want to harm myself. It’s from my nail on my finger. I cut myself with my fingernail.”He later had to apologise following accusations that he was making light of self-harm.READ MORE SUN STORIESWith the revelation that his marriage is now over, these actions take on a new light.And what was proving to be his toughest season on the pitch may well also be his hardest year off the field as well.Pep Guardiola’s horror Man City runPEP GUARDIOLA admitted he is having sleepless nights as he endures his worst-ever spell as a manager.Here are the three-time defending Premier League champions’ nightmare last 10 games…Oct 30: Tottenham 2 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 2: Bournemouth 2 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 5: Sporting Lisbon 4 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 9: Brighton 2 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 23 – Man City 0 Tottenham 4 – DEFEATNov 26: Man City 3 Feyenoord 3 – DRAWDec 1: Liverpool 2 Man City 0 – DEFEATDec 4: Man City 3 Nottingham Forest – WINDec 7: Crystal Palace 2 Man City 2 – DRAWDec 11: Juventus 2 Man City 0 – DEFEATTOTAL – WINS 1, DRAWS 2, DEFEATS 7 More

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      Thomas Tuchel returns to Chelsea for first time since he was sacked as England manager watches Bournemouth clash

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      THOMAS TUCHEL is back at Chelsea for the first time since getting the sack in September 2022.As exclusively revealed by SunSport on Sunday, Tuchel, 51, returns to Stamford Bridge on a scouting mission in the Blues’ match against Bournemouth.England boss Thomas Tuchel has returned to Chelsea after his brutal sackingCredit: TNT SportsTuchel is scouting the talent during the Premier League clash between Chelsea and BournemouthCredit: TNT SportsTuchel has been visiting several stadiums, including an appearance at Wolves (above)Credit: GettyNow England boss, he can sit in a comfy seat and cast his eyes over Chelsea duo Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill, who start for The Blues.The German tactician was axed by the West Londoners just over a year after winning the Champions League in his debut season.The ex-Paris Saint-Germain boss replaced Frank Lampard at the helm in 2021 and immediately transformed the team.However, he was then brutally dismissed by the club’s new ownership and replaced by Graham Potter.Read More on ChelseaIt came following a run of three wins in seven games, with the sacking put down to poor results and differences of opinion.After a brief stint with Bayern, Tuchel returned to English football to take over the national team late last year.And the former Borussia Dortmund boss officially took charge on New Year’s Day.The Three Lions’ gaffer has been going round the country to attend the last couple of gameweeks and also appeared at Molineux for Wolves’ loss to Nottingham Forest.Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesAnd now Tuchel is scouting the likes of Jadon Sancho and Noni Madueke as well as their Chelsea team-mates Palmer and Colwill.The ex-Mainz boss’ first match in charge of England takes place on March 21.Thomas Tuchel sends 27-word Christmas message to England fans with new job to start in daysThe Three Lions will be hosting Albania at Wembley in their first World Cup qualifier. More

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      Pep Guardiola still wearing his wedding ring for Man City clash hours after news of shock split from wife Cristina Serra

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      PEP GUARDIOLA wore his wedding ring as he was seen for the first time since reports he has split with his wife Cristina Serra.Spanish newspaper Sport were the first to say the pair have ended their relationship after more than 30 years. Pep Guardiola seen in public for the first time since reports he has split with his wifeCredit: ReutersGuardiola was all smiles while arriving at BrentfordCredit: ReutersHe wore his wedding ring despite reports of a splitCredit: ReutersGuardiola put the personal news behind himCredit: RexBut Guardiola had to put it behind him as for Manchester City’s trip to Brentford. Guardiola was all smiles as he arrived at the Gtech Community Stadium – despite reports of his split. He even wore his wedding ring for the game in West London.However he wasn’t totally happy at full-time after seeing his side throw away a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 with Brentford.READ MORE IN football Sport reported that the couple decided to end their relationship in December while both in Spain over the Christmas period. The Barcelona-based paper wrote their relationship is still “cordial, stable and friendly” despite deciding to part ways.The report also claims they have been living apart for nearly five years after Cristina moved back to Barcelona to run her fashion company.But she has been moving from Spain to London – still spending time with City manager Guardiola.Most read in FootballCity declined to comment when approached over reports of the split.Guardiola is believed to have met Cristina in her family’s clothes store called Serra Claret when he was just 18.Man City boss Pep Guardiola’s recen struggles could be a response to the end of his marriage to teenage sweetheart  Cristina SerraHe was modelling for designer Antonio Miro in Serra’s shop when he first met Cristina.And even as recently as January 2024, the former midfielder revealed Cristina helps pick out his matchday outfits.Serra Claret stock many brands he has worn on the touchline, such as Dsquared2, CP Company and Armani.He told Men In Blazers: “My wife is the best in the world at many things, but especially in fashion.”So she says normally to me, don’t wear this or wear that, so I follow her.”I am smart enough to know that when people are much much better than me, follow their advices, and hers is really good.”Despite meeting as teens, they waited a long time to get married.They tied the knot in 2014 in an intimate ceremony in Spain – a private service just for close family in Catalonia.And the two have three children, Maria, Marius and Valentina.Pep Guardiola and Cristina in July 2024Credit: RexThe couple met as teenagersCredit: GettyThe two pictured in 2013 in MunichCredit: Bongarts – GettyEldest daughter Maria, 24, is a model who has over 900,000 followers on Instagram.Son Marius, 22, currently resides in Dubai and runs three companies – one of them dedicated to advertising and marketing.And youngest Valentina, 17, is focused on studies.Cristina supported Guardiola as a player and then manager – his career as a boss starting with Barcelona in 2008.He won three LaLiga titles and two Champions League trophies with Barca before moving to Bayern Munich in 2013.He left Germany in 2016 after three seasons – in each of which he won the Bundesliga.Guardiola joined City in 2016 and has won SIX Premier League titles during his reign – and also a Champions League in 2023 to complete an historic Treble.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut this season has seen a dip in form, with with six losses leaving the club in sixth – 12 points adrift of leaders Liverpool.Guardiola with Cristina and their three kids in 2018Credit: PA:Press AssociationEldest Maria is a modelCredit: INSTAGRAM More

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      Man Utd rivals ‘believe Ratcliffe will sanction transfer of homegrown star this month with Mainoo and Garnacho targeted’

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      PREMIER LEAGUE clubs are bracing themselves for Manchester United to put the likes of Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford on the market.According to The Telegraph, United’s rivals believe part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe will put homegrown talent up for sale to stay within financial rules.Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo could attract transfer attentionCredit: PAThat would mean Rashford, Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho would be at risk of being sold by the Old Trafford board.It was announced today that all 20 Premier League clubs avoided charges over profit and sustainability rules (PSR) for the 2023-24 campaign.But United’s financial losses mean they give themselves little room for manoeuvre without Champions League football next season.The club currently sit 13th in the league – with European football well out of sight for now.READ MORE IN football But their PSR position would be helped by selling a homegrown player generating “pure profit” after being developed by the club.That is opposed to selling on a player they have already bought – with Rashford, Mainoo and Garnacho all academy products.Rashford, 27, is in talks to leave United after revealing in December that he is ready for a “new challenge”. His reps were in Italy to speak to AC Milan while the likes of Monaco, Arsenal and Tottenham are also linked. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSMainoo’s future was thrown into doubt after failing to agree terms on a new contract – with his existing deal expiring in the summer of 2027. Chelsea and Bayern Munich are among those monitoring the midfielder’s situation, as revealed by SunSport. And Garnacho has fallen out of favour under United manager Ruben Amorim – having been dropped for the Manchester derby in January. He has since returned to the squad – but is still linked with a move away with Napoli interested in the winger. Man Utd squad transfer verdictSunSport gives its verdict on what Man Utd stars should stay or go in the first phase of Ruben Amorim’s squad rebuild:Andre Onana – StayDespite being guilty of some erratic performances, Andre Onana remains a world-class goalkeeper and United would struggle to find better in the market.The defence has begun to look more solid in recent weeks now Amorim has had time to coach the structure into the team, and hopefully, that will be converted into clean sheets going forward.Noussair Mazraoui – StayThe best signing from the summer window so far, Noussair Mazraoui has proven to be everything Man Utd needed and more.Versatile, reliable and passionate no matter whether he plays at wing-back or centre-back, it is a no-brainer to keep the Moroccan.Leny Yoro – StayAfter a pre-season injury, Leny Yoro has taken some time to bed in but he has shown some superb moments in a Man Utd shirt already like his lung-busting run to block a Liverpool shot in the 2-2 draw at Anfield earlier this month.At the age of 19 he will only get better and while too much expectation should not be thrust on him just yet, the early signs suggest he could be a mainstay in defence for years to come.Harry Maguire – GoThe last time we did this list Harry Maguire was one of our main defensive options to be sold, but since Amorim has come with the back three the England international has barely put a foot wrong.The issue with Maguire is that while he is perfectly suited to a back three, he will be 32 in the summer and has just one year left on his contract, so if a serious offer comes in he should regrettably be sold.Matthijs de Ligt – StayMatthijs de Ligt has been very hit or miss since arriving in the summer. Capable of heroic last-ditch tackles like he did at Arsenal and also capable of some very silly passages of play like his handball against Liverpool.In many ways, the Dutchman seems like a younger version of Maguire and given some more time to bed in he should improve even more.Lisandro Martinez – StayHas really started to grow into the Amorim system in recent games after a very sticky patch of form.He is one of the team’s best progressive passers in the build-up phase and has the dogged mentality this team will need to improve and claw its way up the table.Luke Shaw – GoIt’s been said that one of the best abilities is availability, and that rings incredibly true for Luke Shaw.World class on his day and is clearly still capable of finding those levels, as seen at less than full fitness with England at the Euros. But he is simply not available often enough to warrant keeping.Tyrell Malacia – GoTyrell Malacia is still recovering his match sharpness from his two-year injury layoff, so it is a bit harsh to make a verdict on him so soon.The current concern is that United will need to aggressively recruit specialist left wing-backs in the summer, and Malacia so far has not looked totally comfortable playing there.Manuel Ugarte – StayQuestion marks were being raised about him after his first few games. But under Amorim, Manuel Ugarte has once again become the lynchpin of his midfield.He knows the system inside out and is one of the Premier League’s most proficient ball winners. It would be madness to consider his sale next summer.Kobbie Mainoo – StayDespite reports that Chelsea and Bayern Munich want to sign the 19-year-old, Kobbie Mainoo should be one of the few genuinely untouchable stars at the club and his contract situation needs sorting ASAP.He has quality and aspects to his game not possessed by many other midfielders, and with improvements to the stars around him, he and Ugarte should be able to form an effective partnership for many years to come.Casemiro – GoCasemiro unfortunately seemed to lose his legs going into his second season at Man Utd. And with the 3-4-3 system demanding even more running from him, it is clear he simply does not fit the bill for what the club need going forward.It would also help the club’s financial goals to see him sold due to his massive £375,000-a-week wages being taken off the books.Bruno Fernandes – StayThe club captain, Bruno Fernandes has faced a lot of criticism since taking the armband for his erratic decisions and losing his temper.Yet he remains the best player in the squad by some distance and shows the mentality the squad needs to improve. Besides it’s not like United’s most famous captain of the Premier League era, Roy Keane, was exactly cool-headed.Antony – GoThere’s a definite case to argue that Antony may be the worst pound-for-pound signing in Premier League history, with games too often passing him by and lacking quality when he is involved.That being said, he has improved in a number of brief cameos when featuring as a wing-back under Amorim. But unless there is a plan for him to learn the position and become a specialist he should be moved on.Marcus Rashford – GoIt was not supposed to end like this. Once the darling of Old Trafford and Carrington, Marcus Rashford’s comments admitting he wanted a new challenge were probably the final nail in the coffin for his Man Utd future.There is a classy player in there if he can find the motivation to love his football again. A sale to a rival should be ruled out for fear of exactly that, while a sale overseas should be targeted and pushed by the club.Amad Diallo – StayHas taken a real liking to his role as either the right No.10 in the 3-4-3 or as the right wing-back.Amad Diallo has been one of the team’s best players this season and was rewarded with a new deal as a result.Alejandro Garnacho – GoArguably the trickiest star on the list, Alejandro Garnacho has bags of raw talent to elevate him to being world-class. But recent off-field issues and poor form have doubt cast on his future.If, as reports suggest, a major bid of £60m from the likes of Napoli comes in there will be a tough decision to make. Though it may be the financial situation of the club which ultimately tips the scale.Joshua Zirkzee – GoJoshua Zirkzee has certainly been hit-and-miss at United so far. He has had some games and moments where he has looked very impressive, and others where he is simply not good enough.He has a very unique profile which makes him top drawer in the right system, it is just United will probably never play the right way for him to truly excel.Read our verdict on the full Man Utd squad here.Former Man Utd star slams Rashford and says he should move to MLS More