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      Jose Mourinho’s daughter Matilde to marry partner Danny Graham in lavish ceremony hosted at Special One’s £2million farm

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      TORRENTIAL rain looks set to put a dampener on Jose Mourinho’s daughter’s wedding in Portugal tomorrow.Matilde Mourinho and her fiancee Danny Graham are set to tie the knot tomorrow at a family farm in Azeitao near the Fenerbahce football manager’s native city of Setubal with 300 guests expected to attend.Matilde Mourinho is set to marry Danny GrahamShe is the daughter of Jose MourinhoCredit: GettyThe manager is thrilled at the prospect of becoming a grandfatherCredit: Rex Features300 guests are expected at the weddingCredit: https://www.instagram.com/matildefmf/The 28-year-old stunning jewellery designer admitted ahead of the ceremony she was hoping for good weather, saying: “Obviously, I don’t want it to rain.”But her wish for her big day looks set to come unhinged 24 hours before she says: ‘I do.’Weathermen are predicting heavy rain and possibly thunderstorms for tomorrow.A yellow weather warning is currently in place for Setubal and the surrounding area.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOn the positive side the sun is expected to shine on the happy couple for the post-ceremony second day of their weekend celebrations at a country estate in Azeitao called the Herdade do Peru.London-based Matilde, who has been dating her partner since 2016, spoke about her hope the rain would stay away on podcast ‘By Annabelle.’She added: “I am so happy at the idea of having all my friends and family together to celebrate in the same place.“It’s non-negotiable that my friends and family are there.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“The day can be as perfect as you dream it can be, but if the people who you would want to share it with are not there, then it’s not worth it.”Tomorrow’s event has been dubbed the wedding of the year by Portuguese press.Jose Mourinho’s daughter Matilde wins award for her jewellery company Mourinho has hinted at getting a tattoo to celebrate having a grandchild when the time comesThe couple have been dating since 2016Credit: https://www.instagram.com/matildefmf/The guest list has not been released for the weddingCredit: https://www.instagram.com/matildefmf/As well as the official ceremony at the Mourinho family’s POUNDS two million home in Azeitao and Sunday’s post-wedding get-together at Herdade do Peru, a pre-wedding dinner for around 80 guests has also been organised for tonight at the pretty town’s Jose Mario da Fonseca Museum House.An official guest list has not been revealed ahead of the wedding.Graham is not to be confused with former Swansea City star Danny Graham.Matilde’s partner is a director and co-founder of a property consultancy company called “Agace and Graham”.She has also found her own success away from football despite the fame of her father.She graduated with a Master’s degree from Condé Nast College of Fashion and Design in 2021.Portuguese TV station CMTV reported earlier this month the Mourinho home in Azeitao is one of several properties he is said to own in Portugal.It had undergone major refurbishments ahead of the wedding so the ceremony could be staged there.The former Manchester United and Chelsea manager has previously spoken about becoming a grandparent.He admitted that he would add to his trophy tattoos with one to celebrate the birth of a grandchild.He said: “This one I promised everyone.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The idea was to get a unique tattoo that only I could have: the three European cups won.”The next one I might get if my son or daughter had a baby girl or boy; it would be a special gift, and a tattoo could be a nice way to celebrate it.”Matilde Mourinho – Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/matildefmf/Credit: https://www.instagram.com/matildefmf/ More

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      Jamie Vardy and wife Becky take secret flight to Bahrain in huge transfer hint over Leicester legend’s next club

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      JAMIE VARDY and his wife Becky secretly flew to Bahrain this week as Saudi football clubs continue to clamour to sign him.Insiders said Vardy, who is set to leave Leicester next summer, flew out to the country where fellow Brit Steven Gerrard lives.Jamie Vardy could be set for a summer move to Saudi ArabiaCredit: GettyVardy and wife Becky have shared pictures of them in the Middle EastCredit: InstagramVardy snubbed a move to Saudi last yearThe couple stayed at the Four Seasons hotel in the country, which is next door to Saudi Arabia.A source said: “Jamie and Becky went to Bahrain this week to check it out.“He is in demand from Saudi clubs and while he’s still playing the field he could see what it would be like to possibly live out there.“Bahrain is an hour or so drive from some of Saudi’s big clubs and it’s an amazing country, with a culture very similar to that in Dubai. It’s super relaxed and very glamorous.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“While it was a holiday for them both, and involved a trip to Dubai too, it gave Jamie time to think about what he could do next after he leaves Leicester next summer.“People who know them have joked about a deal in Saudi could easily pay off Becky’s Wagatha Christie bill.”Vardy, who has been with Leicester since 2012, turned down a move to Saudi last summer when he still had a year left on his contract.Clubs, including Khaleej, made a bid for Vardy but he rejected the deal because he didn’t think a move would suit his family.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe family could finally be set to leave England for the Middle EastDespite the rejection, it was reported that Saudi dealmakers were speaking with intermediaries working on Vardy’s behalf to try and negotiate an offer.It is believed a deal struck with Vardy could net him £4million a year.Fans tell Jamie Vardy ‘never change’ as footage emerges of Leicester star slide tackling a KID during title celebrationsClubs including Al-Shabab and Al-Qadsiah were reported to be pursuing Vardy.Former Liverpool star Gerrard manages Al Ettifaq and lives between Saudi and Bahrain – which is favoured by Wags because of its more relaxed laws.His wife Alex enrolled their three youngest children into an exclusive English language school in Bahrain and regularly posts pictures online of her in fancy restaurants.Their home in Bahrain is just a one hour drive from Saudi, where Gerrard’s team are based.Earlier this year, Gerrard’s former Liverpool team-mate Jordan Henderson quit Saudi after six months with Al Ettifaq. More

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      Major change made to Ballon d’Or awards but fans still convinced winner of top prize has been leaked

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      THE Ballon d’Or awards ceremony will undergo a major change this year that could add some suspense to the occasion.There could be a new winner this year as neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo have been nominated for the award.Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham are amongst the favourite to win the Ballon d’OrCredit: GettyThe awards ceremony will take place on October 28 where the Ballon d’Or and Ballon d’Or Feminin winners being announced, along with the Kopa Trophy and Yashin Trophy winners.Jude Bellingham won the Kopa Trophy last year as he was recognised as the best young player in the world, and he is now one of the favourites for the top gong.And in a major change to the ceremony the Ballon d’Or winner will not be informed of their prize before the night gets underway.In previous years France Football have held interviews with the winner prior to their name being announced on stage.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAccording to The Athletic reporter Mario Cortegana that interview will no longer take place which should add a layer of suspense to the evening.However it has been claimed the winner has already been leaked and the victor informed of their prize.Spanish outlet Marca, who have leaked previous winners, reported the news suggesting “all roads lead to Vinicius Jr”.Real Madrid star Vinicius is a Ballon d’Or favourite after producing 24 goals and 11 assists last season, including a goal in the Champions League final.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBallon d’Or winnersHere are the winners of the previous ten Ballon d’Or awards:2023 – Lionel Messi2022 – Karim Benzema2021 – Lionel Messi2019 – Lionel Messi2018 – Luka Modric2017 – Cristiano Ronaldo2016 – Cristiano Ronaldo2015 – Lionel Messi2014 -2013 – His team-mate Bellingham has also be tipped to win it after a very successful debut campaign at the Bernabeu.He also helped England reach the Euro 2024 final where they lost to Spain, whose talisman Rodri is also a contender to win the Ballon d’Or.Five of his England team-mates are also on the 30-man shortlist – Captain Harry Kane, midfielders Phil Foden and Declan Rice, and forwards Bukayo Saka and Cole Palmer.The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Paris on 28 October.Flooded pitch causes chaos in Argentina’s draw with Venezuela as Lionel Messi rants about ‘ugly’ match More

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      Ex-England and Man Utd star’s son makes pro debut with dad still playing in Premier League leaving fans stunned

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      THE son of a former England and Manchester United star has made his professional debut for Peterborough.The midfielder, 18, came on for The Posh in their 2-0 EFL Trophy win over Stevenage on Tuesday evening.The youngster made his debut for Peterborough in the EFL TrophyCredit: AlamyHe made his debut 21 years after his famous fatherPeterborough led 2-0 when the teenage prospect entered the fray in the 63rd minute.And it was made even more fitting given who his manager is at the League One club.Darren Ferguson, son of iconic Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, sent the youngster on for the final 30 minutes.It comes 13 years after his dad made his Man Utd debut under Fergie Sr.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Peterborough player in question is Tyler Young – son of Everton defender Ashley, 39.Young Sr, who earned 39 England caps, won the Premier League, FA Cup, Europa League and League Cup with Man Utd across a nine-year stay.He has also enjoyed spells at Watford, Aston Villa, Inter Milan and Everton – where he is still playing just nine months short of his 40th birthday.Tyler will be dreaming of a career like his dad’s – which has included 458 Premier League appearances and more than 700 games in all competitions.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAshley with Tyler as a young boy and as a teenagerCredit: InstagramAnd he took one of the first steps towards those heights by making his Peterborough debut on Tuesday night.Speaking after the game, Young Jr told the PoshPlus service: “It was a great experience. I didn’t expect to get so many minutes.Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballers”I thought I might get 10/15, but when the gaffer told me I was going on I made sure I was ready.”It was my professional debut which is a big thing, but it really just felt like a normal game of football to me.”Dad Ashley reacted to his son’s achievement on social media as he shared a heartfelt message.He said: “Proud doesn’t even begin to explain this moment for you.”Congrats on your debut son and hopefully many many more to come 🤘🏾⚪️🔵 UTP ❤️.”Young Sr is still playing for Everton in the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty More

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      Inside Erling Haaland and Isabel Haugseng Johansen’s romance, from house hunting to preparing to become parents

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      ERLING Haaland looks certain to become a dad, if his latest social media post can be be believed.The Norwegian hotshot, 24, was on target twice against Slovenia on Thursday night in a Nations League clash.Man City ace Erling Haaland and girlfriend Isabel Haugseng Johansen have kept their romance under wrapsAfter scoring a brace for Norway, Haaland confirmed his girlfriend was pregnantThe pair’s romance has blossomed on and off the pitchAfter the game, he celebrated by sharing a photo on X sucking his left thumb and with a ball under his jersey.Above the picture were baby and coming soon emojis, which sparked rumours that Haaland was teasing that he is about to become a dad.The latest reveal comes just a few days after the Man City striker was seen with girlfriend Isabel Haugseng Johansen house-hunting in Cheshire.Both are big indications that Haaland and Isabel are ready to settle down together.Read more football newsThe pair are longterm loves, having met growing up together in Byrne.How it beganHaaland and Isabel were united by football in their homeland.They met each other when they were kids, who shared a mutual interest in the beautiful game and played for Byrne.Like Haaland, she too was an aspiring footballer in her youth who dreamed of becoming pro.Most read in FootballIn a rare interview, she recalled: “We were just kids, kicking a ball around without a care in the world.”Thierry Henry and Micah Richards pinpoint Erling Haaland’s biggest flaw that ‘Harry Kane can do’ on CBS Sports coverageThey soon became inseparable friends.She continued: “We were inseparable on the pitch.”We didn’t know it back then, but those moments were the foundation of something much bigger.”Romance blossomedAs Haaland’s career began to take off at RB Salzburg, love with Isabel reportedly blossomed.They stayed in touch, following his move from Molde.”We always kept in touch,” Isabel said.”It didn’t matter where we were—we always made time for each other.”A move to Borussia Dortmund didn’t hurt their love, and in fact solidified things for the better.She moved to support his dream of becoming a Bundesliga success, while chasing her own – playing women’s football in Germany.Haaland met pretty Isabel when they were kids in Byrne, NorwayLove blossomed for the pair after Haaland moved from Norway to pursue his careerSoon, Isabel moved to the UK to be with Haaland when he signed for Man CityWhen he moved to England, after signing for Man City, she joined him in Manchester.Rare sightingsOver the years, Haaland and Isabel have valued their privacy.They rarely shared any intimate moments on social media together, preferring to keep their love to themselves.A fleeting glimpse of their romance appeared when Haaland had a break in his busy schedule.In 2022, they were spotted enjoying a short break in Marbella together when City weren’t in midweek action.A couple of years later, they were spied in Capri, Italy on board a yacht.But, Isabel is more at home living a quieter life.”I’m happiest when I’m with the people I love, doing the things I enjoy,” Isabel shared. “That’s what keeps me grounded.”She added: “We just want to live our lives without too much fuss.Isabel revealed she loves the quiet life which helps her to stay groundedHaaland and Isabel are rarely seen in public and prefer to keep their romance privateHaaland and Isabel show off their bikini bodies on board a yachtread more sport features”At the end of the day, we’re just like any other couple.”House huntingHaaland, who reportedly earns around £865,000-per-week after bonuses, has already amassed a net worth of around £30million.Finally, he looks ready to invest that money into a property on our shores.Currently, he is believed to be renting a property in Alderley Edge, which is understood to belong to the Kamani family who own BooHoo and PrettyLittleThings.He already owns a £6million mansion in Marbella, where he enjoys spending his time in the summer.Haaland also has a £2.6m three-bedroom apartment in Oslo.Earlier this week, Isabel and the 6ft5in forward were spotted chatting in the street to an estate agent as they explored an amazing £3.5m mansion in Cheshire.The property – which is being sold by a Premier League star – boasts six bedrooms and six reception rooms, along with its own gym, swimming pool and steam room and sauna.And the modern mansion, built in 2017, is just a five-minute drive from the home of Haaland’s best mate and City winger Jack Grealish.This week, Haaland and Isabel were spotted looking at a £3.5m Cheshire mansionHaaland is believed to already own an impressive property portfolioIt is owned by West Ham footballer, Danny Ings.Baby on boardHaaland became Norway’s all-time top scorer with his brace against Slovenia.Despite the massive achievement, he had more pressing things to tell the world.With his thumb in his mouth and a ball tucked underneath his shirt to resemble a baby bump, Haaland stared down a camera lens giving fans a not so subtle hint he was to become a dad.The social media snap was simply captioned: “👶🏼🔜”.The post drew plenty of reaction from the football world.Teammate, and recent first time dad Jack Grealish, commented: “😍😍😍.”Kalvin Phillips shared: “Love it big fella congrats 😍❤️”.READ MORE SUN STORIESInside Keane and Haaland’s feudRoy Keane’s feud with the Haaland family seemingly began all the way back in 2001 when Keane hit Alfe Inge Haaland, Erling’s father, with a horror tackle.After a barren spell for Haaland earlier this season, Keane said: “The levels of his general play are so poor. He has to improve that. He is almost like a League Two player.”Keane upgraded him to a “Championship” player after Haaland scored against Nottingham Forest.After scoring four against Wolves, Haaland said: “I don’t care about that man.”But Keane highlighted Haaland’s behaviour when he was subbed off, saying he behaved “like a spoiled brat”.Sky Sports presenter Dave Jones caught the wrath of Keane’s death stare when he dared to question that label considering his quartet of goals.The football world has reacted to Haaland’s newsHaaland and Isabel have revealed they are to become first time parentsWhile former teammate Aymeric Laporte wrote: “😮😮👏👏”.With parents like these, expect baby Haaland to be a decent player too. More

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      George Baldock: Greece star’s classy gesture to tragic footballer caught on live TV after shock win over England

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      GREECE ace Lazaros Rota paid a touching tribute to his late great team-mate George Baldock after a famous victory over England.Baldock was found dead in his home in Glyfada on Wednesday night when he drowned in his swimming pool at the age of 31 plunging the football community into mourning.Greece right-back Lazaros Rota dedicated the win over England to George BaldockBaldock played ahead of Rota at right-back in the Greek national teamCredit: RexA devastated Greek national team found the strength to put on a heroic performance and snatch an emotional 2-1 win in London, which they dedicated to their team-mate and his family.Benfica star Vangelis Pavlidis commemorated the Sheffield United legend by raising his black armband in the air and pointing to the heavens after scoring both of his goals.And after the match Ivan Jovanovic’s men lined up in front of the away end with Baldock’s jersey in an emotional scene that led to many breaking down in tears.That was when right-back Rota, 27, who played behind Baldock in Greece’s pecking order, pointed at the ITV camera and dedicated the win to his former team-mate.Read More on FootballThe AEK Athens ace cried: “Georgie, for you.”This was Greece’s first ever win over England and the team became the first ever Greek side to win at Wembley.That was after the visitors’ captain Tasos Bakasetas issued a spine-tingling pre-match speech urging his team-mates to “sacrifice” themselves on the pitch for Baldock.The full-back was so passionate that he often risked his physical well-being on the pitch, such as against France last year in Paris where he played with a swollen ankle and still silenced Kylian Mbappe.Most read in FootballThere were no celebrations from the Greek national team, who were still overwhelmed by the horrific news, after the game.Watch Greece captain’s spine-tingling speech about George Baldock in dressing room that inspired win over England Instead, Bakasetas and Pavlidis opted to use that time to reflect on their friend and his family.Baldock was found dead in the swimming pool of his Greek apartment on Wednesday evening.His family has now confirmed his cause of death as drowning in his swimming pool.They have released a touching statement saying: “We are heartbroken with the sudden passing of our beloved George.Ex-Sheffield United full-back Baldock was supposed to fly back to the UK on Thursday to celebrate his son Brody’s birthday.Baldock moved to Greece after joining Athens side Panathinaikos from Sheffield United this summer.His heartbroken fiancee Annabel Dignam hailed him the “love of my life” and “my soulmate” in an emotional tribute.She said: “The perfect dad to our beautiful boy.”You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours.”You are here with me in Brody’s smile, giggle and infectious personality.”My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise.”I love you forever and always G. Your Neen. X”His fiancee Annabel Dignam said her ‘world will never be the same’Credit: Facebook/ Annabel DignamGeorge Baldock waves to fans at Bramall Lane on May 19, 2024Credit: GettyA minute’s silence was held in his memory at Wembley before England and Greece’s Nations League clashCredit: ReutersCops said it would be “several weeks, if not months” before the full autopsy and toxicology results were released.Officials have ruled out any criminality was at play in his death.Baldock played for his club side on Sunday during a 0-0 draw with fierce rivals Olympiacos.He played 75 minutes before being subbed off.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe club confirmed he last trained with them on Wednesday before driving home to his €15,000-a-month apartment.England and Greece stars held a minute’s silence ahead of their Nations League clash.Dominating Mbappe, Premier League Iron Man, promotion hero: A tribute to George BaldockBy Kostas Lianos, Digital Sports ReporterIT was back in 2019 when Greece legend Vasilis Torosidis – the heir to Euro 2004 hero Giourkas Seitaridis – retired from international duty after 101 caps.A giant void was left behind at right-back, many talented players tried to step up – and none of them could fill those big boots.But, soon enough, I started to hear whispers about a Premier League ace with Greek heritage who’s a starter week-in and week-out…That was none other than George Baldock, born in Buckingham on March 9, 1993, to English parents but qualified for Greece through his grandmother.And what a season he was having. The right-back starred for Sheffield United as they surprised the Prem in the 2019-20 campaign – their first in 12 years – by finishing in the top half of the table.Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 minutes played – the joint highest along with the likes of Declan Rice and Virgil van Dijk.The defender was keen to make the big step to the international stage with his grandmother’s homeland – and it didn’t take long until he shook hands with the Greek football federation (EPO) chiefs.However, a long and arduous paperwork slog stood in the way – with the then Sheffield United star claiming Covid-19 and Brexit slowed things down.Greece finally got the right-back they were begging for for years as Baldock made his debut on June 2, 2022 in a Nations League clash at Northern Ireland as a late substitute.It didn’t take long until the English-born ace owned the right flank at the back and impressive performances followed.Perhaps none compare to the Euro 2024 qualifier against France in June 2023 when Baldock did the unthinkable and kept Kylian Mbappe quiet for 104 MINUTES, despite being injured and playing through “unimaginable” pain.I still remember speaking to then-Greece manager Gus Poyet about his player’s stunning performance, and I will never forget the big smile the Chelsea legend had on his face.Poyet reminded me of a proud father as he took me through the injury hell the full-back endured before squaring up against perhaps the world’s best player for his country.A beaming Poyet told me: “Against the Republic of Ireland [three days beforehand] – and now that it is finished I can say it – after 20 minutes he had a very bad twist in his ankle, very bad. He was very close to come out. I asked him, ‘Can you hold until half-time?'”At half-time his ankle was very, very swollen. He asked for a strapping and he asked me for five minutes. Give me five minutes and we’ll let you know. And he had an unbelievable second half running up and down and being outstanding.”You don’t imagine the ankle after the game. You don’t imagine the ankle the day after, after the flight to France. Black and blue – swollen. And a day-and-a-half later you need to play against Mbappe.”Ninety per cent of people will think, no chance. And I keep talking to him, individually. And he keeps saying to me, ‘Coach I’m gonna be there no worries’.”And he didn’t play 20 minutes, he didn’t play 60 minutes, he played 104 minutes because the referee gave 14 minutes of injury time against Mbappe.”It’s easy to understand how loyal Baldock was to every team he ever played for during his 15-year career, just by looking at his stats.The Greek ace started his career at MK Dons in 2009 where he amassed a staggering 125 appearances throughout an eight-year stint that also saw him playing on loan for Northampton Town, Tamworth, IBV and Oxford United.The defender joined Sheffield United in 2017 and registered a whopping 219 appearances in seven years that also saw him helping his team achieve two Premier League promotions.Baldock’s work ethic and commitment was no different in Greece as he proudly stated two years ago: “To play for the national side is a great honour and a lot of pride involved for me and my family.”Representing my country through my late grandmother, it’s a very proud moment for me and my family. I love the country and I will fight for every success”Baldock never played for England at any level, but he always competed like a lion and he proved it on Sunday in his last ever match when he started for Panathinaikos, whom he joined in the summer, against eternal rivals Olympiacos in perhaps the most intense derby in Europe.He served his team with honour as he helped them pick up a valuable point in a goalless draw against their in-form foes, who had just played their best game of the season with a 3-0 win over Braga in the Europa League a few days earlier.He only managed 12 caps for Greece before his sudden and tragic death at the age of 31 on Wednesday in Athens.But his fighting spirit and charisma at right-back with the white and blue, as well as his remarkable run in the Premier League and the Championship, show that he is leaving a legacy behind for many Greek and English fans to look up to. More

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      Former Arsenal star Lukas Podolski breaks down in tears as he retires aged 39… but has kebab empire to keep him busy

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      LUKAS PODOLSKI made an emotional farewell to football as he hung up his boots for the last time.The former Arsenal star announced his retirement after a testimonial game in front of 50,000 fans in Cologne, Germany.Lukas Podolski has retired from footballCredit: APHe was emotional as he said goodbye to the sport in CologneCredit: GettyHis last game was a testimonial at his boyhood clubCredit: Getty50,000 fans turned up to show their appreciation for the forwardCredit: GEttyPodolski, 39, most recently played for Gornik Zabrze in Poland but returned to his boyhood club for his final game.The forward opened the scoring for “Team Poldi” who won the game 5-3 against a Cologne XI.After the match, Podolski was given a standing ovation at the RheinEnergieStadion.The former German international shed a few tears as he addressed the crowd afterwards.READ MORE ON ARSENALHe said: “It’s over on the pitch now, but we’ll definitely see each other again off the pitch – whether in the stands or on the road.”Once a Cologne fan, always a Cologne fan.”He added: “It really touches me that so many fans would like to come to enjoy this special evening with me.”It is an honour for me to wear the Billygoat on my chest once more in front of a full house.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”It’s a final declaration of love for this special city, the club with its fantastic fans, my team-mates for so many years and other people who have accompanied my path.”Podolski was joined in the match by multiple legends of the game, such as Mats Hummels, Manuel Neuer and his former Arsenal team-mate Per Mertesacker.Watch Thierry Henry awkwardly admit ‘I saw Bukayo Saka at the Arsenal academy and didn’t think he’d be that good’He spent three years at Arsenal during his careerCredit: Getty Images – GettyHe won the FA Cup at the clubCredit: GettyHe won the World Cup with Germany in 2014Credit: Getty – ContributorManagers Joachim Low and Hansi Flick were also involved in the evening.Podolski previously spent three years with the Gunners between 2012 and 2015.During his spell in North London, he won the FA Cup in 2014 and featured in 82 games, scoring 31 goals and providing 15 assists.He will be busy in retirement as he will continue to work in his business empire.He has opened multiple food shops, including a Manal Doner kebab shop in Cologne.It has been reported that his investments have helped his net worth rise to £177.5million.Podolski owns a kebab shop in CologneCredit: Getty – ContributorIt has helped him raise his net worth to a reported £177mCredit: Getty More

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      Meet Ahmed Alsanawi: A Star Barbers owner & stylist to Premier League footballers Grealish, Foden, Solanke & James

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      AHMED Alsanawi is the founder and owner of A Star Barbers, a high-profile barbershop in Chessington, Surrey.It has become the go-to destination for many professional footballers in need of a new style.Ahmed Alsanawi is the owner of A Star Barbers, which boasts a clientele including some of the biggest footballing stars in the worldCredit: Oliver Dixon – The SunWho is Ahmed Alsanawi?Nicknamed “A-Star”, Ahmed Alsanawi’s journey from a self-taught barber to a stylist for football’s elite is a remarkable story of talent, hard work, and relationship-building.His journey into the world of barbering began with a passion for hairstyling and an entrepreneurial spirit after emigrating to the UK from Iraq in the 2000s.Alongside his wife Tanya, he opened A Star Barbers with the goal of creating a welcoming space where clients could receive quality haircuts and grooming services.Since its establishment in 2013, it has gained a reputation for providing top-notch grooming services.read more on a star barbersThe barbershop quickly became known for its skilled stylists and exceptional service, making it a favourite among local residents and professional athletes alike.It has attracted high-profile clientele — including some of the biggest names in football.A hub for footballersA Star Barbers has established itself as a go-to destination for footballers, particularly those associated with Chelsea due to its proximity to the club’s Cobham Training Centre.Alsanawi cut so many Blues players hair that he earned the nickname “Chelsea’s official barber”.Most read in FootballThe shop’s reputation has grown significantly over the years, thanks to Alsanawi’s talent and ability to connect with his clients.Many players trust him not just for haircuts — but also for styling advice.High-profile clientsJack GrealishJack Grealish is a regular at A Star BarbersCredit: TikTok / @astarbarbersJack Grealish was filmed getting his hair styled at the hairdressers in October 2024.A TikTok clip shared by A Star Barbers shows the star having dye applied, before blonde highlights are unveiled and his hair is blow-dried.Grealish has been a regular client, with Alsanawi regularly maintaining his signature style.In May 2022, he also visited for a trim before Manchester City’s Premier League title celebrations.The playmaker also visited in February of the same year, subsequently sharing a video of the barber shaving his hair, showcasing their close relationship.Romeo BeckhamRomeo Beckham dropped in for a cut in October 2022Credit: InstagramIn October 2022, David Beckham’s son Romeo visited A Star Barbers for a haircut.A clip of the Inter Miami forward was posted on social media after his trim was completed.The barbers’ Instagram account added the caption: “Nice to meet you bro @romeobeckham.”Paul PogbaPaul Pogba flies Alsanawi around the world to cut his hairCredit: Instagram / @paulpogbaPaul Pogba is a long-time client of Alsanawi.The Juventus man stopped by in September 2022 for a new look shocked his former Man U teammate Jesse Lingard.Pogba shared a clip of his haircut on Instagram alongside the caption: “No limit for the new look yeassirr! 🙌🏾🔥.”After A-Star was finished, Pogba jokingly put him in a headlock and gave him a noogie — the barber didn’t look too pleased.Lingard replied in the comments to poke fun at the ex-United star, joking that Pogba was a bully.He said: “Shock A-Star getting bullied again! Fresh trip PP.”In June 2022, Alsanawi gave Pogba a haircut just before his transfer from Manchester United to Juventus, hinting at the move on social media.He also visited the shop in May 2022 for a fresh cut, and there have been reports of Pogba being a client since 2017.The midfielder has even been known to fly Alsanawi to various locations for trims, including to the French national team’s training camp before the 2018 World Cup.Eden HazardAlsanawi flew to Madrid to style HazardIn November 2022, Alsanawi posted a video of himself flying to Madrid to give Hazard a haircut.This wasn’t the first time Alsanawi had travelled for Hazard.In April 2021, during the coronavirus pandemic, he flew to Spain to cut Hazard’s hair.This move unsurprisingly caused some controversy due to travel restrictions.Other notable clientsFoden had his hair cut by Alsanawi during the 2022 World Cup in QatarCredit: InstagramOther superstars of the footballing world to visit A Star Barbers include:Expansion of A Star BarbersAs A Star Barbers gained popularity among professional athletes, Alsanawi decided to expand his business.He opened additional locations while maintaining the same level of quality service that made the original shop successful.The brand now includes multiple outlets catering to a wider clientele while still being closely connected to the world of professional football.Alsanawi hopes to expand the brand globally, with a chain of A Star Barbers located all around the worldCredit: Oliver Dixon – The SunInnovative product rangeIn addition to providing exceptional grooming services, Alsanawi launched a line of haircare products called Fini by A-Star in May 2018.These products are designed specifically for men and feature unique formulations.This expansion into product development showcases Alsanawi’s commitment to enhancing men’s grooming experiences beyond just haircuts.Social media presenceAlsanawi’s work extends beyond the barbershop — he has cultivated a significant social media, where he shares photos of his work and interactions with high-profile clients.His Instagram account often features images of footballers sporting fresh cuts, giving fans an inside look at their favourite players’ grooming routines.Ahmed Alsanawi and his team (left to right) — Huw West, Abdullah Alsanawi, Ahmed Alsanawi and Jake McCoy.Credit: Oliver Dixon – The SunAs of October 11, 2024, Alsanawi’s account @astarbarbers has over a million followers. Chelsea banIn 2017, there were reports that Chelsea had banned Alsanawi from their training ground due to his frequent posting of selfies with players on social media.However, this setback didn’t deter Alsanawi, who continued to build his brand and clientele beyond Chelsea.One of Alsanawi’s proudest achievements was working with the French national team at the 2018 World Cup finals and receiving a shout-out from the players after their victory.He also served as the England team’s on-hand barber in Qatar for the 2022 World Cup.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe futureAlsanawi hopes to expand the brand globally, with a chain of A Star Barbers located all around the world.He continues to work on growing his product line and maintaining his status as one of the most sought-after barbers in the world of sport. More