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      Manuel Neuer’s wife, 24, takes ‘very difficult decision’ to step away from professional sport as he plays on at 39

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      MANUEL NEUER’S wife has decided to step away from professional sport.Anika, 24, married the Bayern Munich goalkeeper, 39, in November 2023 and they welcomed a son Luca last year.Manuel Neuer’s wife Anika has paused her handball careerCredit: GettyThe couple married in a secret ceremony in 2023 and have one sonCredit: GettyShe has made the decision to focus on being a mumCredit: GettyShe has ruled out retiring from the gameCredit: GettyAnika is a professional handball player, who plays for ESV 1927 Regensburg in the German second division.But the left-winger has now opted to walk away from the side to prioritise being a mother.She said in a statement: “The decision was very difficult for me. I really like the team and I really enjoy playing with the girls. “I don’t see the break as the end of my handball career; I just want to have more time for my son.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I will miss the girls and handball very much, so I want to particularly enjoy the final games and finish our great season in the best possible way.”The team’s coach Bernhard Goldbach added: “It’s simply impressive what Ani has achieved on and off the field this season. “She came back from maternity leave stronger than ever and played in all of her season’s games. We can only take our hats off to that.”Neuer married the blonde beauty in a secret ceremony and no official announcement was ever made – but Anika changed her surname on Instagram.Most read in BundesligaJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSShe has since been regularly spotted in the stands cheering her husband on.The two-time Champions League and World Cup winner recently shut down retirement rumours by penning a new contract at Bayern, which runs until the summer of 2026.Harry Kane leaves fans stunned by his German and fans are convinced it is a major hint over transfer future Neuer has played 33 games in all competitions this season. He is currently out injured after hurting his calf while celebrating a goal.Manuel Neuer has a year left on his Bayern Munich contractCredit: Getty More

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      Leeds United legend issues fan warning and urges owners to back boss Daniel Farke for Premier League return

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      BRIAN DEANE warned Daniel Farke that fans “will have you” if Leeds United make a poor start to life back in the Premier League.And the legendary ex-Elland Road striker believes there’s still “work to be done” between the German coach and chairman Paraag Marathe.GCA6JX BRIAN DEANE [L] OF LEEDS UNITED LEADS THE CELEBRATION WITH CAPTAIN GARY MCALLISTER AFTER HE SCORED THE GOAL WHICH DEFEATED MANCHESTER UNITED 2-1 AT ELLAND ROAD.Credit: AlamyDaniel Farke has just guided Leeds United back to the Premier LeagueCredit: PAThe boss has been publicly backed by chairman Paraag Marathe after promotionCredit: GettyFarke and his title-winning side celebrated their club record 100-point haul with an open top bus parade in front of an estimated 150,000 fans on Monday in the city centre.Marathe “ended speculation” over the future of the manager by confirming he is “my man” amid reports of concerns over his ability to keep them up and then vowed to turn the Whites into “one of the best in Europe”.Deane, who enjoyed two spells as a Leeds player, speaking exclusively to The Sun via BetSelect said: “Farke deserves the chance to prove himself in the Premier League.“I was a big fan of his even when they didn’t get promoted last year. He’s definitely the man for the job. They came up short last year, but he’s done a fantastic job at Leeds and has been rewarded with promotion this season. READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“If you look at the Premier League, it’s hard to say if any manager will be given a full season because if you’re underperforming, the fans will have you. You have to take it one step at a time.”Though he was the toast of the town over Bank Holiday, Farke knows first-hand how quickly things can change.Especially after being sacked by Norwich in 2021 despite months earlier guiding them to a second promotion.And, even though Marathe has publicly backed him, Deane insists they must show their faith in him on the transfer front also.Most read in ChampionshipBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSThe 57-year-old added: “The recruitment is key. He’ll coach the team as best he can, but if you don’t have players good enough for the Premier League, or if your budget’s not high enough, that’s when you’ve got a problem.“I’m sure he’ll already have his ideas on how to manage the club in the Premier League. It’ll be down to him to sell his ideas to the club.Daniel Farke turns into DJ for Leeds’ bus parade as 150,000 fans cheer on their promotion heroes“The club will be looking at their budget and thinking, ‘What are you going to do with our money?’“And, also, asking how they are going to have a solid platform to move forward. So there’s work to be done between them both.”Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Donald Trump claims letting Russia qualify for World Cup 2026 could be ‘incentive’ to end Ukraine war

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      DONALD TRUMP has claimed the 2026 Fifa World Cup could be an “incentive” to bring the war in Ukraine to an end.Russia has been banned from playing in international competitions since the nation’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.Donald Trump spoke about the 2026 World Cup with Gianni InfantinoCredit: SplashHe claims that letting Russia play could be an ‘incentive’ to end the war in UkraineCredit: APThe US president claimed he would end the ongoing conflict on “day one” of being in office during his campaign.Trump, 78, began his second term as president on January 20 – over 100 days ago – and the war is still ongoing.Current rules state that Russia will not take part in next summer’s World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico.The ban was put in place by Fifa and Uefa and includes removing Russian clubs’ places in European competition.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLTrump has now claimed that letting Russia back into the footballing world could incentivise an end to the war in Ukraine.He made the suggestion during his administration’s World Cup taskforce in the presence of Fifa president Gianni Infantino.At first, he was unaware that Russia was banned from the tournament.He asked: “I didn’t know that. Is that right?”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSTo which Infantino replied: “That is right.”They are banned for the time being from playing but we hope that something happens and peace will happen so that Russia can be readmitted.”UK to host 2035 Women’s World Cup as Fifa chief Gianni Infantino confirms just ‘one valid bid’ for tournament2026 World Cup stadiumsHere are the stadiums that will feature at the World Cup…MexicoEstadio Banorte, Mexico City – 87,523Estadio BBVA, Monterrey – 53,500Estadio Akron, Guadalajara – 49,850CanadaBC Place, Vancouver – 54,500BMO Field, Toronto – 28,180US MetLife Stadium, New York – 82,500AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 80,000GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City – 76,416NRG Stadium, Houston – 72,220Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 71,000SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – 70,240Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 69,796Lumen Field, Seattle – 69,000Levis’ Stadium, San Franciso – 68,500Gillette Stadium, Boston – 65,878Hard Rock Stadium, Miami – 64,767 The former Apprentice US host suggested: “That’s possible. Hey, that could be a good incentive, right?”We want to get them to stop. We want them to stop.”Five thousand young people a week are being killed – it’s not even believable.”However, Trump admitted that Infantino was “the boss” when it came to decision-making over football.He also insisted that he would have “nothing to do” with any demands to have Vladimir Putin’s Russia reinstated.In February, it was reported that Ukraine had suffered losses of over 46,000 soldiers since the invasion in February 2022.Previously thriving Ukrainian cities such as Mariupol and Bakhmut have been reduced to rubble.Meanwhile, vice-president JD Vance demanded that travelling supporters must “go home” after the tournament.Some 78 of the 104 matches of the tournament will be hosted in the US, including the final.The World Tourism Forum Institute has warned the US that the current strict immigration policies could disrupt fans’ travel plans.Vance said: “I know we’ll have visitors, probably from close to 100 countries.”We want them to come. We want them to celebrate. We want them to watch the game.”But when the time is up, they’ll have to go home.”Read More on The SunIt is expected that two million tourists will make the trip to the US, Canada and Mexico for the World Cup.Tickes for the 2026 World Cup have already gone on sale with packages costing up to a whopping £55,000.JD Vance urged fans to leave the US after the tournamentCredit: Rex More

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      Sky Sports star quits role after 23 years in ‘difficult’ announcement after news of channel transformation

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      A SKY SPORTS star has quit after 23 years following the broadcaster’s announcement that there would be a shake-up.Several presenters and reporters are expected to leave their roles.Alan Myers has left his role at Sky Sports NewsIt is the latest shake-up by the broadcaster as they aim to become “more agile and better equipped to serve audiences”.Key figures such as Geoff Shreeves, Martin Tyler and Bianca Westwood have left their posts in recent years, along with a number of match reporters.The latest big-name journalist to quit is Alan Myers, who worked for Sky Sports for more than two decades.He announced on Twitter: “After a 23-year association I have decided to leave Sky Sports News. Difficult decision but one that I felt was right.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”It’s been such a fantastic experience from my first report at a Bolton Wanderers outwood bound course, to [the] World Cup finals, ECL Finals and everything in between!”I couldn’t wish to have worked for a better company with the most talented and professional colleagues. I thank every one of them for their support and friendship over many years.”It’s been a blast and I have some incredible memories, worked on some headline stories and visited over 30 countries, thank you.”Myers was largely based in the North West and North East during his time at Sky Sports News, covering the likes of Manchester City, Newcastle, Liverpool and Everton.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSSeveral more staff are expected to leave amid the shake-up, with Sky Sports News prioritising breaking news stories.’S— happens’ – Sky Sports forced to apologise after Cole Palmer swears before slamming trolls in awkward interview More

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      Why is Rio Ferdinand not on commentary for TNT Sports during PSG vs Arsenal?

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      RIO Ferdinand will not be a part of TNT Sports’ coverage for Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final second leg away at PSG this evening.The Gunners are looking to overturn a 1-0 deficit following Ousmane Dembele’s strike in London last week.Rio Ferdinand will miss the Champions League semi-final between Arsenal and PSGCredit: Andrew Orchard/Andrew Orchard sports photography/Alamy Live newsArsenal will be looking to overturn a 1-0 deficit as they head to Paris this weekendCredit: GettyPSG VS ARSENAL LIVE – LATEST UPDATESLes Parisiens historically do not perform well in home Champions League semi-finals, so the Gunners will be given a boost before the clash even kicks off.PSG have appeared in the competition’s final more recently than the Gunners, having been there in 2020, with Arsenal not appearing since 2006. Both sides are aiming to lift the iconic Champions League trophy for the first time in their history this season.Why is Rio Ferdinand not on commentary for PSG vs Arsenal? Rio Ferdinand confirmed via X that he will miss tonight’s match after being hospitalised.Read more Champions LeagueThe former Man Utd defender posted: “Gutted to be missing the Semi-Finals this week on @footballontnt!!”Rio Ferdinand will not be a part of TNT Sports’ coverage this eveningCredit: https://x.com/rioferdy5″Wishing the team all the best — I’ll be watching every minute from the iPad!”TNT Sports replied to the post by saying: “Get well soon, Rio.”SunSport understands his condition is not serious.Most read in Champions LeagueHow to watch PSG vs ArsenalPSG vs Arsenal is available to watch on TNT Sports 1.The match can be live streamed on discovery+.The game will start at 8pm BST.PSG currently lead the tie 1-0 after last weeks first-leg. More

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      ‘At least three injured’ as violence erupts in Paris with car set alight & 20 arrested after PSG vs Arsenal game

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      At least three people have reportedly injured in chaotic scenes of violence after Arsenal’s game against PSG in Paris.A car was set alight after driving into football fans celebrating Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League victory in the French capital.PSG fans clashed with police ahead of the matchCredit: AFPThe supporters set off fireworks outside the groundCredit: AFPRiot police tried to disperse the crowdsEntire streets were tear-gassedSupporters celebrated goals by climbing on to busesCredit: AFPHooded French youths wearing were also seen fighting with riot police on the Champs Elysée, and on nearby streets.By 2am, more than 20 people had been arrested in connection with the violence.A police source said: “The worse incident so far involved a car apparently being driven into a group of PSG fans.”At least three supporters were injured, one seriously, and others were sent flying. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”A gang then chased the car, setting it on fire and leaving it to burn after they forced it to stop in a side street.”Earlier, riot police tear-gassed an entire street of fans while shots were reportedly fired prior to kick-off.The atmosphere had been building across Paris throughout the day and fans began to gather near the Parc des Princes with two hours until kick-off.But there were clashes with riot cops and videos have surfaced of police pushing PSG supporters with shields and firing tear gas.Most read in Champions LeagueChaotic scenes show fans running from the cops and covering their mouths with scarves.A French reporter claimed “entire streets were tear-gassed by police” after fireworks were let off. How Arsenal can beat PSG and reach the Champions League final Checkpoints around the stadium to stop ticket-less fans getting near to the ground were “reinforced” after the trouble.Yet there was more carnage during the game as PSG supporters swarmed the Parisian streets.Hundreds circled around a bus and some attempted to climb on to it in celebration after their side scored.Tear gas was fired and what sounded like shots were heard as objects were thrown back at cops in shocking scenes.It is not clear what the shots were fired from or if they were fireworks. JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSIt comes after Arsenal fans were warned to be “vigilant” in Paris amid fears of clashes with PSG’s notorious ultras.The 2,000 travelling Gunners were all given a free red and white scarf when collecting their tickets in the French capital.Though there have been concerns that wearing the scarves around the city could prove dangerous and put a “target on their back”.Arsenal fans were advised by the club to “take sensible precautions” in Paris and not visit the Auteuil suburb where the Ultras meet.A statement read: “Supporters are strongly advised to avoid the Auteuil suburb of Paris and should take note of this when travelling to the Parc des Princes on matchday.Read More on The Sun”Street crime, including pickpocketing, can take place in Paris. Supporters are advised to be vigilant, take sensible precautions and ensure they have valid travel insurance.”Supporters are strongly advised not to use line 10 on the metro system which would result in supporters exiting the metro system in Auteuil.”PSG are into the final in MunichArsenal fans were warned to be ‘vigilant’ amid fear of clashes with PSG ultrasCredit: AFPEntire streets were reportedly tear-gassed More

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      Inter Milan hero Frattesi drops F-bomb live on TV after win over Barcelona leaving CBS Sports studio in hysterics

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      DAVIDE FRATTESI let an F-bomb slip on live TV after his heroics in the Champions League. The Inter Milan midfielder, 25, had just scored the winning goal for the Nerazzurri against Barcelona to send the Italian side into the final in Munich.Frattesi scored the winning goal that sent Inter to the finalCredit: APAcerbi was mobbed by his jubilant team-mates after his goalCredit: GettyInter beat Barca 4-3 on the night, but were nearly sent packing by Raphinha’s dramatic strike on 87 minutes – which looked to have sent Barca to Munich after the 3-3 draw in the first leg.However, Francesco Acerbi’s equaliser in the third minute of stoppage forced extra-time..Frattesi then popped up in the 99th minute to earn Simone Inzaghi’s team a place in their second Champions League final in three years. They were defeated 1-0 by Manchester City back in 2023 thanks to Rodri’s winner.Read more footballIn a his post-match interview with CBS, Frattesi, the Italian international, left pundits Thierry Henry, Micah Richards, and Jamie Carragher in fits of laughter with his comments. Henry dished out lavish praise for the midfielder, saying: “I didn’t see a man that was nervous; I saw a guy that was composed to finish at that time, in that tie, in that game. “How did you think about doing that?” the former Arsenal legend asked from CBS’ London studio. Joining the broadcast from pitchside at the San Siro, the match-winner Frattesi hilariously responded: “I don’t know. Most read in Champions LeagueBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”Maybe because I was thinking, ‘If I don’t score, I’m f***ed!”The comment had the Italian giggling, while the CBS pundits burst out laughing. Rooney reveals sweet thing Inter star Mkhitaryan asked his old Man Utd team-mate after reaching Champions League finalPresenter Kate Scott nervously looked over at the production team behind the camera in response to Frattesi’s slip of the tongue. Meanwhile, Henry lay his head in his hands on the desk to control his laughter. Inter had to do it the hard way to reach the final, despite taking a lead back to the San Siro. The hosts threw away a two-goal cushion given to them courtesy of Lautaro Martinez and Hakan Calhanoglu’s goals. Eric Garcia and Dani Olmo levelled proceedings on the night for Barca, before former Leeds United winger Raphinha stepped up to send the tie to extra time. However, it was Frattesi’s time to write the headlines, placing a neat finish into the far corner, leaving Wojciech Szczesny flat-footed in the Barca goal. More

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      Rio Ferdinand in hospital and forced to miss TNT Sports coverage of PSG vs Arsenal as he posts picture from bed

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      RIO FERDINAND revealed he would miss last night’s Champions League semi-final after posting a picture from his hospital bed.The former Manchester United star would have been on duty for TNT Sports for Arsenal’s trip to Paris.Rio Ferdinand missed last night’s Champions League coverage on TNT SportsCredit: AlamyFerdinand revealed on X that he was in hospitalCredit: https://x.com/rioferdy5Ferdinand was seen with a band around his wrist in the photo.Ferdinand captioned his post: “Gutted to be missing the Semi-Finals this week on @footballontnt!!””Wishing the team all the best — I’ll be watching every minute from the iPad!”TNT Sports replied to the post by saying: “Get well soon, Rio.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSunSport understands his condition is not serious.The 46-year-old is a regular feature on TNT Sports’ coverage of European football, whether on commentary or in the studio as an analyst.He is often a key part of the broadcaster’s commentary team, appearing alongside fellow pundit Ally McCoist and commentator Darren Fletcher.Ferdinand usually appears on TNT’s coverage of Man Utd games, including his former club’s stunning quarter-final win against Lyon at Old Trafford last month.Most read in FootballThey will be on TNT tonight in the second leg of their semi-final against Athletic Bilbao.Well wishers took to social media to send kind messages to the former England defender.One person said: “Get well soon Rio.”Rio Ferdinand calls out Roy Keane and Gary Neville’s takes on Man Utd vs Man City A second said: “Get well soon legend.”A third added: “Good recovery man. Take care.”Another said: “Quick recovery.”Arsenal were losing the semi-final 1-0 on aggregate after the first-leg defeat courtesy of Ousmane Dembele’s goal.And even though they were unable to turn it around, losing 2-1 in Paris and 3-1 overall, Mikel Arteta insisted his team were the best side in the competition.Mikel Arteta says Declan Rice and his Arsenal team can make history tonightCredit: Getty More