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      Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand hits back at Gary Lineker over ‘nonsense’ Sir Alex Ferguson claims

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Rio Ferdinand has hit back at Gary Lineker over his “nonsense” claims about Sir Alex Ferguson’s legacy.The Red Devils icon was in a bullish mood after his old side crashed out of the FA Cup on penalties to Fulham at the weekend.Rio Ferdinand has come to the defence of Manchester United legend Sir Alex FergusonCredit: Getty Images – GettyGary Lineker has blamed United’s current predicament on Fergie’s legacyCredit: X @BBCMOTDBig-money signings like Rasmus Hojlund struggled to make an impression as the game finished 1-1 after 120 minutes.And United’s exit means they only have the Europa League left to play for, with the club also sitting 14th in the Premier League.After the defeat to Fulham, BBC host Lineker made a bombshell comment claiming that United’s long-standing woes can be traced back to the final days of legendary manager Ferguson.The Scot lifted his 13th title before retiring from the beautiful game in 2013.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe was replaced by David Moyes, who lasted less than a year before being sacked.United then went through Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Erik ten Hag, who didn’t win a single Premier League title between them.Current boss Ruben Amorim has an even bigger puzzle to solve after United hit a new low in the table.And Lineker claimed Ferguson did not leave the Red Devils in a good place when he quit 15 years ago.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSLineker said: “If you look at Liverpool now, they’ve got a new manager in Arne Slot, and it’s testament to how Jurgen Klopp left the club in a really good state.”So the structure is really good. That probably wasn’t the case at the end of Sir Alex Ferguson’s [time at Old Trafford].Joshua Zirkzee breaks down in tears and is consoled by Man Utd and Fulham stars after penalty shootout missJoshua Zirkzee missed a penalty as United were knocked out of the FA Cup by FulhamCredit: GettyUnited have hit a new low in the table under Ruben AmorimCredit: PA”I know they won the league that season. But it wasn’t their best side, and a lot of their great players were coming to the end of their careers. “I think from there they had problems. The academy wasn’t delivering the players that they were before.”Now, Lineker has come under fire from ex-United star Ferdinand for his comments.The former centre-back spent 11 seasons under Fergie, winning six titles and a Champions League in the process.And Ferdinand, who exited United a year after Sir Alex’s exit in 2014, insists his old boss is not to blame for any current woes.He argued on social media that Ferguson left a squad for successor Moyes boasting an average age of 26.6 years.Ferdinand pointed to the blend of youthful and experienced players in the team, especially among the forward line.And he also made sure to note that of the 25 players in the squad, 19 were fully-seasoned internationals.Ferdinand ended by reminding people that Fergie’s final title win saw United take top spot by a massive 11 points.And he instead believes that recruitment in the post-Sir Alex phase is to blame for United’s downfall.I’ve read over the last few days it’s The Boss’ fault. What a load of nonsenseRio FerdinandFerdinand said: “Average age of the squad Sir Alex left was 26.6 years old. Blend of youth + experience.“Our attacking players were… Rooney (27), RVP (29), Chicharito (25), Welbeck (22), Zaha (20), Nani (26), Ashley Young (27), Lingard (20), Kagawa (24), Valencia (27), Januzaj (18).“19 international players. Ps we won the league by 11 points…“Since then, the recruitment has been poor. But I’ve read over the last few days it’s The Boss’ fault. What a load of nonsense…”Ferdinand backed up his spending claims by revealing the total net spend of European clubs since the 2014/15 season.Five of the top six are English sides, with Tottenham (£502million) and Arsenal (£784m) in the mix.According to Transfermarkt, French giants PSG are fourth with a net spend of £795m.While Chelsea are fourth with a total worth £809m.Second place goes to Man City with £813m.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd unsurprisingly, top spot is taken by Man United.But their net spend is miles higher than even City’s, with the figure totalling a boggling £1.04BILLION. More

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      The making of Morgan Rogers: Former coaches on his stunning rise from Man City cast-off to Aston Villa superstar

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      MORGAN ROGERS tonight bids to drive Aston Villa towards the Champions League last eight.The midfielder, 22, has been the outstanding star in Unai Emery’s side this season and looks nailed on to be in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad a week on ­Friday. Morgan Rogers is one of Aston Villa’s most impressive playersCredit: GettyHe looks set to be named in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squadCredit: GettyIt has been a remarkable rise from being a Manchester City cast-off and only joining Villa from Middlesbrough in January 2024.In this SunSport exclusive, we chart Rogers’ early career as key figures behind his emergence tell the story of his stunning arrival as one of the Prem’s top stars…WEST BROMDARREN MOORE — coached West Brom Under-18s when Tony Pulis was manager and became first-team boss in April 2018.“It’s no surprise at all to see what Morgan’s doing.“He was an outstanding young player, somebody with undoubted ability and wonderful vision.“And the bit he’s now added to his game is his temperament and real desire. He’s really bringing some leadership qualities into his game and it’s almost he’s getting matches now by the scruff of the neck and really dictating in the game.“He’s doing magnificently for his club and there’s no doubt he can also operate at international level.“When I left West Brom, I got invited to Manchester City. And when I got there and I was watching the first team work, I was asked a question about Morgan.“So he’d been head-hunted by Man City and they were drawing a little bit of insight from myself as I’d been working with him.“I had no doubts about him, and I knew what they thought of him then.Emery ripped up his own transfer handbook to sign Villa sensation Morgan Rogers, who says HE invented Palmer celebrationDarren Moore is not surprised to see Rogers excelling in the Premier LeagueCredit: ReutersRogers spent nine years in the West Brom academyCredit: Getty – Contributor“The only thing about when he played for Man City was the timing.“He had the ability then but he had to go away to find his feet a little bit and then come back (he spent time on loan at  Lincoln, Bournemouth and Blackpool).“But when I looked back at what was said to me at the time, they had no doubt he’d play — and I’m sure all they probably had to do was just be a bit more patient with him.“And I’m sure what he’s doing now at Aston Villa, he’d been doing for them.“But, at the time, he should have gone (to City) but, like everything, you have to think about where you are at your time in life.“Suddenly, it was the training and probably just stepping into that big environment.“He just had to mature a little bit more — but that ability has always been there.“But what is clear is there’s more to come. It’s a complete joy to see him do what he’s doing.“When I first saw him at West Brom, I knew there was something special there.“The way he moved, the way he kept the ball away from danger and from opponents, the passes, the goals he was scoring and, of course, he had a good size then.“He’s put on real size and bulk since and he looks really strong now but his spatial awareness is fantastic.“So when you look at that, it’s almost like the complete player really. At the age he is, he’s come on in leaps and bounds.”MANCHESTER CITYRogers was contracted to Man City for four yearsCredit: GettyPep Guardiola is pleased to see Rogers succeeding since his Man City exitCredit: PAPEP GUARDIOLA — Rogers signed for City aged 17 but could not break through.“Sometimes when players arrive, they are two, three years younger and at that moment there was Kevin De Bruyne in his prime, David Silva, Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez, Leroy Sane and Raheem Sterling and it’s difficult.“That’s the only reason why Rogers did not get a chance.“In the situation we are in right now, of course these kinds of players would be with us. This is obvious.“I’m happy for him because he’s a lovely guy. He exploded last season and this season he’s a really, really top-class player. England have another exceptional player.”LINCOLN CITYHe scored six times in 28 appearances for LincolnCredit: GettyJez George revealed that Rogers was a popular figure in the Lincoln dressing roomCredit: GettyJEZ GEORGE — Lincoln sporting director signed Rogers on loan from  Manchester City in January 2021.“He was at West Brom and played against us in the FA Youth Cup. We had five players hanging off him at one point but our lads could not get near him. From then on, we kept a close eye on him.“After he went to Manchester City, we tried to get him on loan in the summer of 2020 as we already had Brennan Johnson on loan. City would not let him out and though he was only 18, we could see how clever he was and he had all this pace and power, so we knew he would be brilliant.“Michael Appleton, our manager at the time, also knew him from West Brom and we got him on loan in the January.“The lad was real class. He was on massive money at a young age but you would never have guessed it.“It was post-Covid, we were in League One getting changed in a marquee at a training ground and it was all quite rough. But despite coming from Man City, Morgan fitted in so well and was very popular in the dressing room.“We got close to the Championship although we did have Brennan on one wing and Morgan on the other.“We knew that if we lost the play-off final to Blackpool we would lose him. Had we won promotion to the Championship, we would have got him for another season.“He has had bumps in the road, like Bournemouth where he hardly played. But he had the resilience to get through it.“I knew he would fly again after taking a couple of paces back.”BOURNEMOUTHRogers struggled for game time at BournemouthCredit: GettySimon Francis knew Rogers had potential even though it was not shown on the South CoastCredit: PASIMON FRANCIS — a former defender and now the assistant first-team technical director.Rogers joined on loan in August 2021 but returned to City in the January after making just one Championship start.“It was pretty clear and simple as to why he struggled to make an impact.“I’m not sure if he has spoken about Bournemouth but I think he’d be the first to admit that he didn’t arrive with enough intensity in his work, with his attitude.“But, ultimately, the reason we signed him was because we knew the player and the potential he has. He’s gone on to fulfil that potential. Unfortunately, it wasn’t with us.“There’s also another example with Leif Davis.“The recruitment department, which I was a part of with Richard Hughes at the time, identified Leif and Morgan as a really exciting left-sided partnership that could flourish in the Championship.“Morgan and Leif arrived quite late into pre-season because of the transfer window and getting the loan deal over the line.“Jordan Zemura and Jaidon Anthony had already struck up a great partnership on the left side.“Leif and Morgan didn’t play anywhere near as many games as they would have liked, perhaps as many as we would have liked them to.“Obviously when you have loan players you want them to get exposure. It wasn’t to be for Morgan. He had ridiculous potential — then he went on to Middlesbrough, performed really well there, got regular game-time and got his move to Aston Villa.“There wasn’t anything dramatic in it, it was just that lack of opportunity he had because that left side had done so well in that promotion-winning season.”BLACKPOOLRogers was only on loan for half a season at BlackpoolCredit: GettyHe arrived at the club a couple of weeks before Mick McCarthyCredit: AlamyMICK McCARTHY — former Tangerines manager.“I inherited Morgan as he arrived at Blackpool on loan a couple of weeks before I took over in January 2023.“When I was in charge of Cardiff, I went to watch him play for Lincoln at Oxford. But after starting well, he drifted out of the game so I decided not to pursue him.“But when I started working with him, I could see what an amazing talent he was and also an outgoing, gregarious character in the dressing room.“He played on the left and came in with his right foot — but in one match, I played him as a centre-forward and he was brilliant. The best performance in my short time at the club.“I thought up front, he was more involved and he held the ball well. Now he plays as a No 10 and he is also effective.“The problem is that when he started on the left, I felt he was not involved enough. He is powerful, has a wonderful touch and it was good to see him do well at Middlesbrough.“We were a team spiralling downwards in the Championship so Blackpool was probably not the best place for him.“But it looks as though he has learnt from his good and bad spells and, most importantly, it is vital he is playing down the middle.”MIDDLESBROUGHRogers convinced Aston Villa to splash out on him with his performances at BoroCredit: PAKieran Scott saw Boro make a huge profit on Rogers when he was soldCredit: Middlesbrough FCKIERAN SCOTT —  the club’s head of football signed Rogers from City for £1.1million in the summer of 2023.He sold him seven months later to Aston Villa for an initial £8m rising to £17.5m.“I was working at Norwich and I looked to try to do something there a couple of times but Man City weren’t ready to sell him.“When he was on loan at Blackpool, I thought we could buy him. We phoned up Man City. I spoke to Brian Marwood and we came to an agreement where we managed to sign him for £1.1m. There was a decent sell-on, not ridiculous.“I was absolutely delighted. I could see he had England potential because I don’t know many boys like him that, at 6ft 2in, and can play off both feet.“We took a gamble at Middlesbrough that we could get him going and get it out of him. When he first came in he didn’t play week in, week out. He was off the pace and was in and out of the team.“The bit that not many people know is that when Morgan found his purple patch, we had been drawn against Villa in the FA Cup.“So, obviously, Unai Emery and his team would track back four or five games to get an idea of how we play, what we do and who we are.“Monchi, Villa’s sporting director, told me that’s when he’d caught Unai’s eye in the build-up.“That’s how it all came about. We played against them, he did well and went on a real run of form.“That’s when he started scoring and assisting and it made Villa’s mind up — they were coming for him.“They timed it great and, fair play to them, they were brave and did it. I have to give them credit for that.“I’m not actually that surprised how he’s kicked on.“It’s just maybe the speed of it. A few people have said to me, ‘Surely, you’re a bit gutted now with the amount of money you’ve got for him?’.“But we’re not actually, because it ended up being £17.5m as a deal.“That’s where it tops out at and I don’t think we’re too far away from him being at that already, to be honest. There’s another couple of million quid’s worth of add-ons and we’re there.”He has already earned two caps for the Three LionsCredit: GettyHe earned his first cap for England after coming on against GreeceCredit: Getty More

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      Shakira gave me a brand new Lamborghini and £70,000 in cash after her break up from Gerard Pique… it’s been a NIGHTMARE

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      WHEN Shakira gifted a fan a brand new Lamborghini and £70,000 in cash, she probably didn’t expect them to be forced to sell it after just six months.That’s the position that Michael Mejia finds himself in after quickly realising how expensive it is to maintain a car worth over £200,000.Michael Mejia’s dream moment of winning Shakira’s Lamborghini has become a nightmareCredit: Instagram @michaelmejiaartShakira gifted the Lamborghini to Mejia in a competition following the release of her song ‘Soltera’Credit: GettyThe popstar bought the car following her split from Barcelona and Spain icon Gerard PiqueCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe car was featured in Shakira’s ‘Soltera’ music videoCredit: YouTube/ShakiraChart-topping sensation Shakira made Majia’s dreams come true when she gifted him a brand new Lamborghini Urus used in her ‘Soltera’ music video.The bright purple supercar was featured in the music video for Shakira’s break-up anthem following her high-profile split from footballer Gerard Pique.The four-time Grammy winner allowed US-based fans to enter a competition to win the car, writing at the time: “This car was a gift I gave myself when I started my single life , but I realised that what really matters is the human connection. “The car, the clothes, the material things, do not transform us . It is the people we love and the connections we build that really make the difference.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMejia was the lucky winner of the car, and was gifted a further £70,000 by Shakira to help with the maintenance costs.But now the Colombian-born designer has realised that the cash injection just isn’t enough to afford his new wheels, explaining that the Urus has caused him more trouble than fun.In an interview on Spanish speaking US show El Gordo y La Flaca, he said: “Shakira gave me $90,000 (£70,000) to cover the costs of the car, taxes, transfers, flights to pick it up, maintenance and insurance.”I’ve spent $95,000 (£74,000) including insurance for six months, but after that I’ll have to keep paying $2,500 (£2,000) a month.”Most read in FootballMejia was gifted £70,000 alongside the carCredit: Instagram @michaelmejiaartHe has since learnt that maintaining the supercar is more expensive than he anticipatedCredit: Instagram @michaelmejiaartCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”It’s quite expensive, a person of average economic level like me has won a car that only millionaires can maintain.”It’s a bit of a funny situation because even with $90,000 (£70,000), which is a lot of money, it wasn’t enough.Huge pop star set to make a spectacular comeback with a string of UK gigs”I thought I was going to have some of that money left to enjoy it but I’m going to have to put money in just to keep it for six months .”In fact, Mejia has revealed that the expenses are so high that he thinks he will have to sell the car himself.Adding: “Even though I would like to have it forever, because it is the most precious thing I have, I think I will have to auction it off or sell it because it is quite expensive to maintain”.And it looks as though selling it could change his life completely, as Mejia revealed someone is willing to pay well over the odds to get their hands on Shakira’s car.”Believe it or not, someone offered me between $700,000 (£550,000) and $800,000 (£630,000) for it.”, he said.”And that’s wonderful, but people are telling me ‘as long as you don’t sell it for less than $1million (£785,000) or $2million (£1.57m)’.”I think that’s everyone’s dream, to have a million dollars.”Mejia is hoping to become a millionaire by selling the carCredit: Instagram @michaelmejiaart More

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      You’ve got the eyes of a hawk if you can spot the differences on Besiktas’ new club badge

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      EAGLE-EYED fans have spotted three subtle differences in Besiktas’ new badge.The Turkish giants celebrated their 122nd anniversary yesterday by unveiling the club’s updated emblem. Besiktas have made subtle changes in their new badgeBut even those with the best eye sight have struggled to spot the changes to Besiktas’ new design.Fans were left staring and squinting at the badge trying to spot the differences.And supporters have been left baffled, with one commenting: “Ain’t they the same???”Another added: “They’re playing with our mind.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA third wrote: “Absolutely the same! Is it some type of joke?”But there are tweaks to the emblem, with the first being a different shade of red used on the Turkish flag in the middle.The shape has also changed slightly and the top corners now line up perfectly with the vertical black lines rather than it being just off centre.Additionally, the two white stripes have also subtly adjusted shape.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe spacing has been tweaked and there is now a visible bigger gap between the end of the white stripe and outline of the badge.Besiktas are currently managed by ex-Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who took over earlier this year.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blasts Besiktas for having ‘no scouting department’ after suffering humiliating Europa League exit The club sit fourth in the Super Lig and and have lost just one of his first nine games in charge. More

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      Football’s most valuable brothers including Jude and Jobe Bellingham, Man Utd flop and Arsenal star

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      FOOTBALL has its fair share of iconic brothers who have both shone in the beautiful game.Bobby and Jack Charlton teamed up to help win England the World Cup in 1966 while Kolo and Yaya Toure both scored their penalties in the shootout to fire Ivory Coast to Africa Cup of Nations glory in 2015.Gary and Phil Neville are one of the most famous pairs of footballing brothersCredit: Getty – ContributorJack and Bobby Charlton helped England win the World CupCredit: Getty Images – GettyYaya and Kolo Toure were team-mates for Man City and Ivory CoastCredit: Getty Images – GettyGary and Phil Neville came through at Manchester United together before their infamous awkward tunnel moment when Phil was captain at Everton.They are not the only pair of siblings to play as full-backs for the Red Devils – twins Rafael and Fabio da Silva did so, too.The Premier League has also had Rio and Anton Ferdinand, Jordan and Andre Ayew and Kevin-Prince and Jerome Boateng.Other high-profile duos include Filippo and Simone Inzaghi, Rafinha and Thiago Alcantara, Frank and Ronald de Boer, Michael and Brian Laudrup, Franco and Giuseppe Baresi and Brazilians Socrates and Rai.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThere have even been a quadruple portion of Hazards in the shape of Eden, Thorgan, Kylian and Ethan – admittedly to varying degrees of success.And they are not the only famous footballing siblings called Kylian and Ethan.But are they the most valuable in the world?Using Transfermarkt figures, here are the top ten footballing brothers by combined worth right now…Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSRafael and Fabio Da Silva are not the only twins to play at full-backCredit: Bradley Ormesher – The TimesEden Hazard had a far more successful career than brother ThorganCredit: Reuters10. Federico & Christian Dimarco: £50m + £185k = £50.2mFederico Dimarco came through the Inter Milan academy and, after leaving for Sion, returned in 2018 and is now one of the best left wing-backs in the world and regular for Italy.His younger brother Christian is also a defender and was developed in the Inter youth set up but is now with Milan outfit Alcione in Serie C and the same emotional comeback looks less likely.Jude Bellingham FaceTimes brother Jobe from Bernabeu pitch before scoring wonder goal for Real MadridFederico Dimarco is said to be worth £50mCredit: GettyHis brother Christian Dimarco is a defender for Alcione in Serie CCredit: Getty9. Rasmus, Oscar & Emile Hojlund: £50m + £1.7m + £400k = £52.1mThe Hojlund family are not far off a decent five-a-side team, spearheaded by Manchester United striker Rasmus who joined the Red Devils in a £72million deal in 2023.Twins Emil and Oscar were born two years later in January 2005.Emil, another forward, is with Schalke while Oscar is a midfielder for Eintracht Frankfurt.All three came through at Copenhagen and have represented Denmark at youth level, although Rasmus is the only one with any senior caps so far.Rasmus Hojlund is the older sibling of twins Emil and Oscar with all three coming through at CopenhagenCredit: FCK.DK8. Jurrien, Quinten & Dylan Timber: £37m + £26m + £165k = £63.2mThe most valuable footballing twins are Jurrien and Quinten Timber, the Dutch duo who played in the academies of Feyenoord and Ajax.The pair shared a bedroom despite playing for rival Eredivisie clubs until Jurrien moved out to join Arsenal in 2023, with Quinten still with Feyenoord.They have three older brothers – Shamier, Chris and Dylan – with Dylan a defender for VVV-Venlo in their homeland.Quinten and Jurrien Timber have been both team-mates and rivals on the pitchCredit: GettyDylan Timber is the middle son of the five boysCredit: Getty7. Theo & Lucas Hernandez: £41m + £26m = £67mTwo of the top full-backs in recent years both come from the Hernandez family in the shape of Theo and Lucas.They developed at Atletico Madrid. Theo went to Real Madrid and now AC Milan whereas Lucas, older by two years, opted for Bayern Munich and PSG.Both men have more than 35 caps – including together for the first time in 2021 – after Lucas starred in the successful 2018 World Cup campaign.And they faced off on opposite sides in the 2023-24 Champions League as Lucas’ PSG beat Theo’s Milan 3-0.Lucas and Theo Hernandez have represented some of Europe’s biggest clubsCredit: Getty6. Luis and Jesus Diaz: £70m + £80k = £70.1mLuis Diaz makes up approximately 99.89 per cent of the combined market value of the Diaz brothers.The Liverpool forward is said to be worth around £70m thanks to his trophy-winning exploits at Anfield and flying the flag for Colombia.Fellow forward Jesus Diaz, seven years younger, plays for second-tier Barranquilla in their homeland and had a loan spell with Porto B when Luis starred for the first team.Luis Diaz is one of the most valuable players in the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyHis younger sibling Jesus is a forward with Barranquilla and had a loan with Porto BCredit: Getty5. Alexis, Kevin & Francis Mac Allister: £66m + £5m + £250k = £71.3mLuis Diaz is not the only Liverpool star with a professional footballer brother – with Ryan and Danzell Gravenberch 11th and Diogo Jota and his sibling Andre Silva 14th for joint market value.But in fifth on the global list is Alexis Mac Allister with brothers Kevin and Francis.The ex-Brighton man won the 2022 World Cup for Argentina but the lads have Irish descent and witty Home Alone-loving parents – hence the names.The oldest, Francis, plays in midfield for Instituto on loan from Argentinos Juniors while the middle son, Kevin, is a defender for Union SG, playing against Alexis in the Europa League last season.Alexis Mac Allister alongside his footballer brothers Kevin and FrancisCredit: InstagramKevin and Alexis played against each other in the Europa LeagueCredit: TNT Sports4. Nico & Inaki Williams: £58m + £17m = £75mInaki Williams is a certified Athletic Bilbao legend, making his first-team debut back in 2014 and staying with them ever since.And Nico, eight years his junior, is following in his footsteps, already racking up more than 150 appearances for the club – albeit still 300 behind Inaki.Incredibly, the lightning-quick brothers have represented three different national teams between them: Spain, Ghana and the Basque Country.Nico and Inaki Williams have etched their name into Athletic Bilbao historyCredit: AFPInaki holding his sibling as a baby – they are eight years apartCredit: https://www.instagram.com/williaaaams11/?hl=en3. Marcus & Khephren Thuram: £62m + £29m = £91mThe Thuram footballing genes are very strong. French World Cup winner Lilian has not one but two sons who have represented Les Bleus.Marcus has enjoyed the better career so far, winning Serie A with Inter and reaching the World Cup final.He is four years older than Khephren, who is making a name for himself as a holding midfielder after signing for Juventus from Nice in 2024, the year after making his senior international debut.Marcus and Khephren Thuram play for rival Italian giantsCredit: Getty2. Kylian & Ethan Mbappe: £132m + £1.7m = £133.7mI told you there would be another set of Kylian and Ethan brothers – but the Mbappes are far more valuable than the Hazards.That is almost exclusively down to Real Madrid and France superstar Kylian, worth an estimated £132m thanks to more than 360 career goals, seven Ligue 1 titles and a World Cup by the age of 26.Ethan, eight years Kylian’s junior, moved to PSG in 2017.But while Kylian was a first-team hero, Ethan initially spent his time in the academy and made five first-team appearances before leaving for Lille on a free in the summer when the other Mbappe headed to the Bernabeu.Kylian and Ethan Mbappe were together at PSGCredit: Rex1. Jude & Jobe Bellingham: £149m + £15m = £164mAnd we don’t have to go very far to find the No1 footballing brothers in world football because one of them is a Real Madrid team-mate of Mbappe’s.Yes, that is Jude Bellingham – alongside his younger sibling Jobe.READ MORE SUN STORIESLos Blancos splashed out up to £115m to land England star Jude from Borussia Dortmund in 2023 – and he capped off his debut season by helping them beat Dortmund in the Champions League final.But fellow ex-Birmingham youngster Jobe – still a teenager until September – is showing he has an exciting career ahead of him, shining for Sunderland but already attracting plenty of interest in the Premier League and abroad.Jobe and Jude Bellingham are the most valuable brothers in footballCredit: GettyBoth stars came through at Birmingham and are shining for their clubsCredit: Instagram / @judebellinghamTop 30 most valuable brothers in footballJude & Jobe Bellingham: £149m + £15m = £164mKylian & Ethan Mbappe: £132m + £1.7m = £133.7mMarcus & Khephren Thuram: £62m + £29m = £91mNico & Inaki Williams: £58m + £17m = £75mAlexis, Kevin & Francis Mac Allister: £66m + £5m + £250k = £71.3mLuis and Jesus Diaz: £70m + £80k = £70.1mTheo & Lucas Hernandez: £41m + £26m = £67mJurrien, Quinten & Dylan Timber: £37m + £26m + £165k = £63.2mRasmus, Oscar & Emile Hojlund: £50m + £1.7m + £400k = £52.1mFederico & Christian Dimarco: £50m + £185k = £50.2mRyan & Danzell Gravenberch: £45m + £200k = £45.2mTeun & Peer Koopmeiners: £41m + £4m= £45mTijjani & Eliano Reijnders: £41m + £450k = £41.5mDiogo Jota & Andre Silva: £41m + £290k = £41.3m Desire & Guela Doue: £33m + £7m = £40mNico & Keven Schlotterbeck: £33m + £6m = £39mLeroy & Sidi Sane: £37m + £290k = £37.3mPape & Sambou Sarr: £37m + £80k = £37.1mJacob & Aaron Ramsey: £26m + £10m = £36mRobin & Theo Le Normand: £33m + £125k = £33.1mGianluigi & Antonio Donnarumma: £29m + £250k = £29.3mJulian & Jascha Brandt: £29m + £170k = £29.2mAdam & Scott Wharton: £26m + £2m = £28mJoao & Hugo Felix: £25m + £1.7m = £26.7m Brian Brobbey, Derrick Luckassen & Kevin Brobbey: £25m + £850k + £370k = £26.2mJoe & Chris Willock: £23m + £1.5m = £24.5mSergej & Vanja Milinkovic-Savic: £17m + £7m = £24mBenoit & Loic Badiashile: £23m + £80k = £23.1m Romelu & Jordan Lukaku: £21m + £80k = £21.1m John & Paul McGinn: £19m + £125k = £19.1m More

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      Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid: Get £40 in free bets to spend on Champions League football with BetMGM

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      THE Champions League round-of-16 has thrown up a Madrid derby as Real host Atletico in the first leg tonight.It’s always a terrific occasion when these two come together and bookmakers BetMGM are offering brand new customers a cool £40 in free bets when you register an account and stake a tenner on the European clash!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim..BetMGM £40 welcome bonusVisit the BetMGM website HERE*Select SPORTS OFFER on the websiteRegister a new account – No Promo Code necessaryOpt in for this promotion by depositing and placing at least £10 on football at odds of Evens or greaterOnce that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with £40 in free betsReal Madrid vs Atletico Madrid: Get £40 in free bets — claim yours here*Not got a BetMGM account? No problem!This offer is just for you, and it’s incredibly easy to claim!Simply register a new account, deposit and stake a minimum of £10 on football at odds of Evens (1/1) or greater. This must be done within seven days of opening your account with the bookmaker.Once that’s settled – win or lose – your account will be credited with £40 in free bets!Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid: Get £40 in free bets — claim yours here**BetMGM. New customers only. 7 days to place a qualifying bet of £10 at 1/1 (2.0) to receive 4 x £10 Free Bets: 1x £10 Free Bet on Football, 1x £10 Free Bet on Horse Racing, 2 x £10 Free Bet Builders. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. Full T&Cs apply.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – GambleAware.orgRead our guide on responsible gambling practices. For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More

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      Brentford striker Yoane Wissa thought he was destined for career in police before shooting to Premier League stardom

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      YOANE Wissa thought he would be a policeman tackling crime rather than Premier League opponents when he was growing up.The 28-year-old has formed a lethal partnership with Bryan Mbeumo, and together they’ve made up for the loss of England forward Ivan Toney.Yoane Wissa thought he was destined to become a policemanCredit: GettyWissa has scored 14 goals this seasonCredit: GettyWissa while on loan at AC Ajaccio from Angers in 2017Credit: GettyWissa has scored 14 goals for Thomas Frank’s side this season, who are 11th in the table and in with a shout of European football next season.Speaking exclusively to Sun Sport, Wissa said he initially thought he’d be “just another guy on the street”.The Brentford star, who was born in northern France to Congolese parents, said: “When I was growing up, I really just expected to be a random guy, maybe a policeman. Why not?“But once I saw the small light that I could be here, I took it. I know it sounds crazy when I say that to people, but the truth is I’m not the most talented guy. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“What keeps me going is that I love to work hard, and I guess I’m not doing too bad.”Wissa started out as a goalkeeper and progressed into midfield before settling as a forward who can play in various positions across the front line.The striker, who came through the ranks at Chateauroux before moves to Angers and Lorient and eventually Brentford for around £8million in 2022, added: “The first time I really thought I could be good at football was when I was 16.”Then I went to the academy, so you see, I went there at 16, which is considered late because most of the others were around 14. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“But then I started to feel that there could be something for me here.“Some will say it’s a dream come true, but if I’m being honest, it wasn’t even my dream because I didn’t expect to be a footballer.Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo shows his skills on the training pitch “So I don’t take that for granted, if you know what I mean. I didn’t expect to be here, and now I’m here with Thomas and the guys.“I just work hard, and that’s why when I speak, I do so with a smile.”Since the departure of Toney to Saudi Arabia, Wissa and Mbeumo have become the face of Brentford. They are the most lethal duo in the Premier League this season, with a combined 28 top-flight goals for the Bees.Asked what makes playing together with Mbeumo so smooth, he said: “He’s a top player, so that is the first thing that makes it very easy. “What I do is try to help him. I make sure to position myself in a way that if he needs me, I’ll be there. It also helps that we’ve played together for a while.”But it’s not just Mbeumo that Wissa gets along with easily. Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo have become the face of BrentfordCredit: ReutersAs the interview continues, manager Frank comes by to pat him on the back, and I asked what the Brentford manager is like behind the scenes.His response gives an indication of the strong bonds within the club. He said: “Listen, Thomas is a friend. That’s what he’s good at – he’s a guy who is open to talk, and everyone loves him.”He’s always positive, not just in the good times, and this is why it’s very good for us.“But I have to say this, it’s easier to speak to someone who is always playing, but he also likes to make sure people who feel a bit isolated are taken care of.“That, for me, is also very crucial. So, if I can say something about him, Thomas Frank is just a friend to us.”Back in Congo, fans gather around viewing centres to watch Wissa play, and some say they wish he could move to a bigger club and possibly play in some of the top European competitions. They may get their wish as far as Europe is concerned soon, at least.But, he says, even though he’s aware of the perks of doing well, he’s the kind of person who thinks more about the team, given that he didn’t even think getting this far was possible at the beginning.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe added: “Of course, I’m settled in the Premier League, and everyone knows that I can score goals, but also, everyone wants to continue to do better for themselves. “Now I’m in Brentford, and for me, I always think about the team. I’m hoping I can help the team take the next step, and by doing so, I’ll also do well for myself too.”The feeling is good at Brentford at the momentCredit: PA More

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      Tottenham ‘send scouts to watch 19-year-old Fenerbahce star’ – only for Jose Mourinho to leave him on the bench

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      TOTTENHAM reportedly sent scouts to watch Fenerbahce star Yusuf Akcicek in action — only for Jose Mourinho to leave him on the bench.19-year-old wonderkid Akcicek burst onto the scene last season with 15 appearances in all competitions.Tottenham sent scouts to watch Yusuf Akcicek in action for FenerbahceCredit: GettySpurs were left empty-handed as Jose Mourinho benched the youngsterCredit: RexAnd he has added another 14 games to that tally this term after breaking into Mourinho’s Super Lig XI at the start of the year.Akcicek is regarded as one of Turkey’s most promising centre-backs.And he played the full 90 minutes in Fenerbahce’s fiery top-of-the-table derby against Galatasaray, which ended in a 0-0 stalemate and saw Mourinho slapped with a hefty ban and fine for his post-match comments.The ace put in another top performance in his side’s 4-1 Turkish Cup win over Gaziantep last week.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFootboom claims his recent performances caught the attention of several teams, including Tottenham.And the Londoners decided to send a scout to Istanbul for Fener’s weekend league game against Antalyaspor.However, the Spurs man went home with an empty report after Akcicek was surprisingly left out of the side.Former Tottenham boss Mourinho instead opted for Mert Muldur as one of his three centre-backs.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAnd when he replaced the latter during the match, the Special One sent on Alexander Djiku while Akcicek remained on the bench.It now remains to be seen if he returns to Fener’s side on Thursday.Roy Keane gives savage response to James Maddison’s dig as Ian Wright tells Tottenham star ‘you can’t f***ing win’The Turks take on Scottish side Rangers in the first leg of their Europa League last 16 tie.The return match takes place a week later, with no league match in between.But Tottenham are likely to continue their interest in Akcicek as Ange Postecoglou looks to combat the defensive injury crisis that has plagued his side all season. More