Soccer

CRISTIANO RONALDO appears to have ruled out playing in the upcoming Club World Cup. The 40-year-old’s future with Al-Nassr remains uncertain ahead of the tournament in the US later this month. Cristiano Ronaldo has opened up about his futureCredit: Shutterstock EditorialThe 40-year-old is unlikely to feature in the upcoming Club World CupCredit: GettyRonaldo had been linked with a move away from the Saudi side, with his contract due to expire on June 30. The club remain confident they can convince Ronaldo to stay and pen a new deal. Al-Nassr are not participating in Fifa’s revamped 32-strong Club World Cup. Ronaldo had been linked with a fast-moving transfer, which would require the club to release him early from his contract so he could play in the competition.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLA similar deal has been struck between Arsenal and Jorginho, who have released the midfielder early so he can join Flamengo.But Ronaldo has indicated a move in time for the tournament starting on June 15 is unlikely.Ronaldo said, via Fabrizio Romano: “It’s almost decided that I will NOT take part at the FIFA Club World Cup despite receiving many invitations and proposals.”There have been talks, contacts – but you have to think about short, medium and long term.”Most read in FootballRonaldo also opened up on the prospect of retirement.BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKNow 40, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner appears to believe he has plenty of time left. He continued: “My mentality is to live day by day. Cristiano Ronaldo’s bodyguard Hichman Bukhari talks about the risks of protecting the football superstar “I don’t have many more years to play – but I’m enjoying the moment. “There’s no day decided for my retirement. “I feel happy, I’m here to enjoy and keep going.”Ronaldo has topped the scoring charts in the Saudi Pro League for the past two seasons.But he has failed to win silverware with Al-Nassr since joining from Manchester United in 2023.Club World Cup 2025 GuideSOME of the world’s biggest clubs are heading Stateside for a MAMMOTH Club World Cup.Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Man City, and Inter Miami are among the 32 teams taking part in the tournament, which runs from June 14 to July 13.Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Ousmane Dembele, Cole Palmer and Harry Kane will be showing their skills to packed crowds across the US.Los Blancos are favourites to lift the trophy in New York but will face stiff competition from around the globe.Watch EVERY match of the Club World Cup 2025 on DAZNHere’s everything you need to know ahead of the tournament…INFOLATEST NEWS & FEATURESAnd sporting director Fernando Hierro believes he can change Ronaldo’s mind about leaving and get him to pen a new deal.Hierro told a press conference late last month: “I have to be positive. I don’t think Ronaldo will leave Al-Nassr.”In any case, we are working hard on all aspects.”Ronaldo’s contract with Al-Nassr runs until the end of June 30.”We will work to renew his contract so he can continue with us, and there are many clubs interested in signing him.Read More on The Sun”He is a huge phenomenon in the history of football and has helped the league grow.”We are in contact to renew his contract and hope he continues with us.” More

TOTTENHAM have been rejected by former Premier League boss Roberto De Zerbi, according to reports.Spurs brutally sacked Ange Postecoglou last night – just two weeks after he lifted the Europa League to end the club’s 17-year trophy drought.Roberto De Zerbi has rejected TottenhamCredit: ReutersChief Daniel Levy is leading the hunt for a new managerCredit: Shutterstock EditorialThe club have been sounding out alternatives since the final in Bilbao and De Zerbi was approached.However, journalist Fabrizio Romano claims he rejected Spurs in favour of staying at Marseille.De Zerbi quit Brighton after two years in the job last summer and then penned a three-year contract with the French giants.Brentford boss Thomas Frank and Fulham manager Marco Silva are the leading candidates to replace Postecoglou.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFrank is the front-runner and he reportedly has a £10million release clause in his deal.But reports from The I Paper suggest him moving from West to North London is far from done.Brentford are ready to hear from Spurs but have so far not been contacted.There is still a strong possibility Silva lands the job and his representatives have been spoken to.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFulham are yet to receive a formal approach from Spurs.Silva has shown an interest in working under Daniel Levy before and he came close to being appointed instead of Antonio Conte in 2023.Ange Postecoglou’s BEST Press Conference MomentsBut Postecoglou’s replacement could be walking into a dressing room revolt at Spurs.The Telegraph claim that a number of players are fuming over the decision to axe the Aussie and some now want to leave the club.Thomas Frank and Marco Silva are in the frame for the Spurs jobCredit: ReutersAnge Breaks Silence On Tottenham SackingANGE Postecoglou issued a statement just moments after being axed.It read: “When I reflect on my time as manager of Tottenham Hotspur, my overriding emotion is one of pride.”The opportunity to lead one of England’s historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime.”Sharing that experience with all those who truly love this club and seeing the impact it had on them is something I will never forget.”That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work, dedication and unwavering belief in a dream.”There were many challenges to overcome and plenty of noise that comes with trying to accomplish what many said was not possible.”We have also laid the foundations that means this club should not have to wait 17 more years for their next success.”I have enormous faith in this group of players and know there is much more potential and growth in them. I sincerely want to thank those who are the lifeblood of the club, the supporters.”I know there were some difficult times, but I always felt that they wanted me to succeed and that gave me all the motivation I needed to push on.”It’s important to acknowledge the hard working people at Spurs who gave me encouragement on a daily basis.”And finally, I want to thank those who were with me every day for the last two years.”A fantastic group of young men who are now legends of this football club and the brilliant coaches who never once doubted we could do something special. “We are forever connected. Audere est Facere.” More

FORMER Premier League talent spotter and academy recruitment expert Malcolm Elias has passed away aged 71, it has been announced.Fulham FC confirmed Elias’ passing in a statement on social media.Malcom Elias has passed awayCredit: Fulham FCThe post read: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our colleague and dear friend, Malcolm Elias, after a short illness. “The Club’s Head of Academy Recruitment, Malcolm had a fantastic reputation in football for unearthing and nurturing young talent. “A proud Welshman, Malcolm was approaching his 16th anniversary at Craven Cottage this summer, having joined us from Liverpool in July 2009, while he also previously enjoyed a highly successful spell at Southampton alongside future Fulham colleagues Huw Jennings and Steve Wigley. “The influence that Malcolm had on the modern game cannot be understated, having worked with and developed the likes of Theo Walcott, Gareth Bale, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Harvey Elliott, Luke Harris and Jay Stansfield, to name but a few. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”A hugely popular figure around the training ground, Malcolm will be sorely missed by all who knew him. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Paula – Malcolm’s ever devoted and endlessly supportive wife of nearly 50 years – his sons Andrew and Daniel, his six beloved grandchildren, as well as his additional family and friends.”Elias was always highly respected within football, having helped to identify and nurture some of the Premier League’s best young talents.The academy recruitment expert previously worked with Liverpool before joining Fulham in 2009 – helping the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Harvey Elliott get their breakthroughs.Most read in FootballElias impacted the career of Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: ReutersHe was also crucial in the development of Gareth Bale at SouthamptonCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdPrior to his time on Merseyside Elias worked with Southampton, where he had an impact on the early emergence of the likes of Theo Walcott, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Luke Shaw and Gareth Bale.Tributes for the iconic figure have started pouring in as the football world mourns the loss.QPR posted: “We’re so sorry for your loss.”Sending sincere condolences to Malcolm’s loved ones and all at Fulham.”While Oxford United, where Elias worked as an Academy Manager in the 1980s, posted: “Oxford United were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Malcolm Elias.”A former teacher in Blackbird Leys, Malcolm began working at United in the 80’s as an Academy Manager. “A much loved person and coach at the Club for more than a decade, Malcolm is an integral part of the Club’s history, helping bring through talents such as Joey Beauchamp.”Our thoughts go out to his family and friends at this time. RIP.”Read More on The SunAnd Southampton issued a statement that read: “We are incredibly saddened to learn of the passing of Malcolm Elias, one of the influential figures in the club’s youth development history.”Our thoughts go out to all of Malcolm’s family, friends and colleagues at this time.”Elias was involved in the early steps of Theo Walcott’s careerCredit: AFPHe also played a part in Luke Shaw’s rise to the Southampton first teamCredit: AFP More

JORGINHO has completed his move to Flamengo – just hours after leaving Arsenal. The Brazilian midfielder, 33, was released from his contract early by the Gunners. Jorginho has completed his Arsenal exit and has joined FlamengoCredit: GettyThe 33-year-old will face off against ex-club Chelsea in the Club World CupCredit: GettyJorginho joined Arsenal in January 2023 from Chelsea.The 33-year-old made 78 appearances for Mikel Arteta’s side, but mostly featured off the bench this season.Jorginho was set to leave the club when his deal expired on 30 June.But the club arranged for him to be released early so he could play for Flamengo in the Club World Cup.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe has penned a three-year deal with the Brazilian side.The Gunners described Jorginho as a “valuable and integral part of the club” in a statement confirming his early release.It added: “Everyone at Arsenal Football Club would like to thank Jorgi for his contribution to the club.”We wish him and his family all the best for the future.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFlamengo’s draw for the Club World Cup sees them face Tunis, Los Angeles FC and Chelsea in the group stage.It means Jorginho will face his former club on June 20 at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field.£67M Real Madrid Star Rodrygo on Gunners Hit List | From The Sports Desk | Sun SportA familiar face to Blues fans will also play against Chelsea in the tournament opener.Olivier Giroud, who also played for both the Blues and Arsenal, currently leads the line for Los Angeles FC.The MLS club booked their place in the competition with a nervy qualifying win over Mexican giants Club America earlier this month.Club World Cup 2025 GuideSOME of the world’s biggest clubs are heading Stateside for a MAMMOTH Club World Cup.Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Man City, and Inter Miami are among the 32 teams taking part in the tournament, which runs from June 14 to July 13.Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Ousmane Dembele, Cole Palmer and Harry Kane will be showing their skills to packed crowds across the US.Los Blancos are favourites to lift the trophy in New York but will face stiff competition from around the globe.Watch EVERY match of the Club World Cup 2025 on DAZNHere’s everything you need to know ahead of the tournament…INFOLATEST NEWS & FEATURESThe winner-takes-all tie came about after Mexico’s Club Leon were kicked out of the new-look competition before it even started.Leon were due to be in Group D alongside Chelsea. But they were booted out due to a violation of Fifa’s rules on multi-club ownership.Read More on The SunThe 32-team tournament starts later this month.Manchester City, among the favourites for the crown, face Italian giants Juventus, Morocco’s Wydad AC and Al Ain of the UAE in the group stages. More

ANGE POSTECOGLOU’S replacement could walk into a dressing room revolt at Tottenham, according to reports.The Aussie was axed just two weeks after lifting the Europa League to end the club’s 17-year trophy drought.Players are fuming over Ange Postecoglou’s sackingCredit: GettySpurs chief Daniel Levy is facing a dressing room revoltCredit: PABrentford’s Thomas Frank is the leading candidate to take over, with Fulham boss Marco Silva and Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola also in the running.And the new man’s first job could be to lift spirits in a devastated dressing room full of players that have spoken out in support of Postecoglou. The Telegraph claim the sacking has angered many and some stars now want to leave this summer.A “player revolt” is a worry for chief Daniel Levy as players are unhappy over the way “Postecoglou’s exit has been handled”.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Spurs squad penned touching goodbyes to their boss on social media, possibly hinting at their dismay over the decision.Captain Son Heung-min called him a “legend”, who “changed the trajectory of the club and believed in us”.Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario wrote: “You are not only a top manager, you are an incredible person to work for, a real leader, a mentor, and someone I’ll always look up to.”What we achieved TOGETHER will stay in the history books.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSPedro Porro said: “For mentoring me early on, helping me settle into the club, and trusting me out on the pitch. “I’ll always be grateful for the way you led us, defended us, and kept us going through all the highs and lows. “Above everything, you gave us one of the greatest moments in the club’s history and for that, you’ll always be celebrated.”Dominic Solanke added: “Thank you for bringing me to this wonderful club, thank you for bringing us a wonderful trophy.”Won’t ever forget the convo we had before I signed and we achieved a dream! All the best in your next adventure.”An official Spurs statement said it was a unanimous choice to get rid of Postecoglou despite it being a “tough” decision.They said: “Whilst winning the Europa League this season ranks as one of the club’s greatest moments, we cannot base our decision on emotions aligned to this triumph.”Yet it did little to calm raging fans, who said: “What an absolute joke of a football club.”Another commented: “This club is addicted to self-sabotage. Embarrassing. Thanks Ange, for reminding us what it’s like to actually win something.”Ange Breaks Silence On Tottenham SackingANGE Postecoglou issued a statement just moments after being axed.It read: “When I reflect on my time as manager of Tottenham Hotspur, my overriding emotion is one of pride.”The opportunity to lead one of England’s historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime.”Sharing that experience with all those who truly love this club and seeing the impact it had on them is something I will never forget.”That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work, dedication and unwavering belief in a dream.”There were many challenges to overcome and plenty of noise that comes with trying to accomplish what many said was not possible.”We have also laid the foundations that means this club should not have to wait 17 more years for their next success.”I have enormous faith in this group of players and know there is much more potential and growth in them. I sincerely want to thank those who are the lifeblood of the club, the supporters.”I know there were some difficult times, but I always felt that they wanted me to succeed and that gave me all the motivation I needed to push on.”It’s important to acknowledge the hard working people at Spurs who gave me encouragement on a daily basis.”And finally, I want to thank those who were with me every day for the last two years.”A fantastic group of young men who are now legends of this football club and the brilliant coaches who never once doubted we could do something special. “We are forever connected. Audere est Facere.” More

THOMAS FRANK is the front-runner to replace Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham after his brutal sacking.And the Brentford boss might not be the only one switching West for North London this summer.Thomas Frank is the leading candidate for the Spurs jobCredit: GettyYoane Wissa could a bargain signingCredit: GettySpurs are yet to begin negotiations with Frank, who has a £10million release clause.But the Bees are a selling club and the Dane may believe he has taken them as far as he can after two top ten finishes since their promotion in 2021.Spurs chief Daniel Levy felt Europa League glory papered over the cracks of a disastrous domestic campaign and he will look to overhaul the squad.With Champions League cash in the bank, Tottenham are set to spend big and SunSport have predicted how they could line up after Frank’s overhaul.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCristian Romero could leave and a new centre-back is needed as Spurs conceded a whopping 65 goals in the Premier League last term.Marc Guehi is set to depart Crystal Palace as he has just a year left on his contract and would be a shrewd signing.His calming presence and leadership is exactly what is needed and Spurs bid £70m for him in January.Yves Bissouma and Rodrigo Bentancur had mixed seasons and a partner for the talented Lucas Bergvall is needed.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSFrank could use his Danish links to bring in Morten Hjulmund.The energetic all-action midfielder captains Sporting Lisbon and is loved by now Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim.Hjulmund is composed on the ball and gets stuck in, making him perfect for Frank’s flexible systems.Eberechi Eze has a £60m release clause at Palace and would be a luxury if funds are still available.Spurs are likely to make Mathys Tel’s loan move from Bayern Munich permanent for £45m and the position can be his with Son Heung-min departing.On the other flank, Brennan Johnson can frustrate and Dejan Kulusevski has caught the eye centrally, opening the door for Tyler Dibling.Relegated Southampton will sell the 19-year-old winger, who fits Tottenham’s recent policy of signing talented youngsters.Up top, Frank has transformed Yoane Wissa into a deadly striker and neither would decline a reunion.He got 19 league goals last season and could be a summer bargain with just a year left on his contract.Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney is destined for the Premier League and the 22-year-old is tidy in possession.Having him next to the pressing machine Ederson from Atalanta would be ideal, but a deal for the Brazilian will be tough as he could cost £50m.Frank could want to bring wingers Kevin Schade or Bryan Mbeumo with him to Spurs from Brentford.Read More on The SunSchade scored 11 goals last season and is one of the most improved players in the Prem.Mbeumo would be a dream signing, but Tottenham would need to act fast as he is reportedly heading to Man Utd.Morten Hjulmund could fix Spurs’ midfield woesCredit: AlamyBryan Mbeumo and Kevin Schade have been transformed by FrankCredit: AlamySpurs need competition for Dominic SolankeCredit: Getty More

ARSENAL have reportedly opened transfer talks with RB Leipzig over Benjamin Sesko.The 22-year-old Slovenian forward has been on the Gunners’ wishlist since last summer. Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have opened talks with Benjamin SeskoCredit: GettyThe Slovenian forward is currently away on international dutyCredit: GettyRB Leipzig reportedly made a bizarre request to protect their star manCredit: GettySesko scored 21 goals and notched six assists in all competitions last season. And new sporting director Andrea Berta is eager to get a deal over the line ahead of a “big” summer.Arsenal opened official talks with Leipzig on Friday, according to Sky Sports.The two clubs are in contact but no formal bid has yet been submitted. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSesko is currently nursing a knock and didn’t play for Slovenia against Luxembourg last night. The injury to his knee is not thought to be serious. The Mirror claims Leipzig contacted the Slovenian FA prior to the international break.The club requested Sesko sit out both Slovenia’s matches in a bid to avoid injury. Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKHe has travelled with the squad ahead of a game with Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday.But Sesko has not trained ahead of the game in Celje. £67M Real Madrid Star Rodrygo on Gunners Hit List | From The Sports Desk | Sun SportArsenal remain interested in Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres as Mikel Arteta looks to overhaul his attack.But as SunSport exclusively revealed on Friday, Manchester United are in pole position to sign the Swede sensation.Gyokeres, who scored 54 goals in 52 games for Sporting last season, has an £85m release clause.But it is understood that the Portuguese side would accept a fee closer to £60m this summer.Leipzig appear braced for numerous bids on Sesko, who could command a similar fee. The forward has proved prolific since joining the German side from sister club RB Salzburg in 2023.Read More on The SunSesko has bagged 39 goals in 87 games for Leipzig.He penned a lucrative contract extension last summer, with the deal running until 2029. More

WOLVES have announced TEN players will leave the club this summer. Skipper Nelson Semedo is among those to be offered a new deal at Molineux.Pablo Sarabia is among ten players leaving Wolves this summerCredit: GettyDefender Craig Dawson is also on the lookout for a new clubCredit: GettyBut Pablo Sarabia and Craig Dawson are heading out of the exit door. Sarabia, 33, joined the club from Paris Saint-Germain in January 2023. The Spaniard was a Champions League runner-up with PSG in 2020 and brought flair to Wolves on the flanks. He scored eight goals in 77 games, twice winning the club’s Goal of the Season award. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSarabia confirmed last week he was to leave the Midlands after just over two years. He wrote on Instagram: “Two and a half seasons ago, I had the chance to become part of the Wolves family and experience a league as competitive as the @premierleague.”It’s been an exciting challenge, and even though we went through tough moments, we reached our goals — thanks to the unity between the club and the fans.”Now it’s time to start a new chapter, taking with me some amazing memories from a club that my family and I will never forget.”Most read in Football”Wishing you all the best for the future. Once a Wolf, always a Wolf. Thank you @wolves.”BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKDawson has been linked with a move to ambitious Championship side Wrexham following their consecutive promotions. The ex-West Ham defender played 61 times in the gold of Wolves.Matheus Cunha gifts Wolves team-mates Joao Gomes and Andre a Rolex ahead of Man Utd transferAnd reports suggest Wrexham have tabled a contract offer to the former Conference League champion.Wolves also announced eight players from their youth set-up will be released.Stan Amos, Justin Hubner, Testimony Igbinoghene, Aaron Keto Diyawa, Lucas Kibrya, Filozofe Mabete, Josh Nyakudya and Matty Whittingham are all free to find new clubs. The club have also chosen not to take up the option in Carlos Forbs’ loan deal, with the forward returning to Ajax.It comes after last season’s top scorer Matheus Cunha moved to Manchester United for £62.5million. The Brazilian looks set to be joined in leaving by Rayan Ait-Nouri, who is a target for Manchester City. More