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      Inside Gary Neville’s FIVE failed restaurants including joint ventures with Ryan Giggs and ‘space age’ menus

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      GARY NEVILLE’S booming hospitality business empire has hit a rough patch.Not everything has gone to plan for the highly successful Manchester United legend after he was forced to close the doors on a FIFTH restaurant.Gary Neville has been forced to shut his restaurant with £1m debtsThe Man Behind the Curtain first opened in 2014Neville owned half of the Leeds dinerOne of the most unusual looking dishes was a denia red prawn served on a telephone – a play on the ‘Lobster Telephone’ object created by Salvador DaliThe Man Behind the Curtain had a reputation for artistic presentationThis comes after Neville’s Leeds restaurant went into liquidation last month with debts reported at £1million – including £519,000 owed in taxes.The Man Behind the Curtain was launched in 2014 and run by former Masterchef star Micheal O’Hare, with Neville owning half of it via Relentless Leisure.It received a Michelin star in 2015 along with three AA rosettes in 2016.The venue gained a reputation for its extravagant and highly priced dishes including denia red prawn served on a TELEPHONE – a play on Salvador Dali’s ‘Lobster Telephone’. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe filing also shows that Neville’s company Relentless Leisure is owed £366,848 by the restaurant.The accounts for 2023 are overdue but those for 2022 reported a £187,000 profit and reserves at £105,938.The closure of The Man Behind The Curtain isn’t the first time Neville has been forced to walk away from a restaurant.Here we take a look at his four other failed dining concepts…Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Rabbit in the MoonNeville, 49, and former team-mate Ryan Giggs, 50, invested in The Rabbit in the Moon before it ceased in 2017.The Old Trafford duo would link up with O’Hare again after naming him the Creative Director of GG Hospitality in 2016.Bizarre ad sees Man Utd team up with tractor company Yanmar The idea was to run a successful space-age Asian restaurant in Manchester – but it only lasted a year.Diners were treated to fried calf brains, crispy rabbit ears and an octopus hot dog.The fine-dining venue was on the top two floors of Urbis, a six-story building on Exchange Square in Manchester.When O’Hare launched the concept, he hoped it would win the first Michelin star for Manchester in decades.But the bizarre space-themed diner served it’s last meal in 2018 after GG Hospitality announced significant losses to shareholders.The Rabbit in the Moon restaurant in Manchester was closed after two yearsChef Hare came up with the space-age Asian conceptCafé FootballMeanwhile, GG Hospitality endured a miserable 2019 as well after they were forced to close TWO Café Football sites after six years.Opening in 2013, Café Football initially occupied a big, echoey space in the Westfield shopping centre at Stratford in East London.There was a section of Fans’ Favourites including Karren Brady’s Match Day Classic – pie, mash and liquor, chilli vinegar for £13.95 – or Kirsty Gallacher’s Terrace Winter Warmer – chilli with steamed rice and soured cream.And Neville and Giggs decided to open one in Manchester city centre, but that closed in March 2019.The venues were axed after GG Hospitality said: “We have decided to shift our focus to our hotel business.”At the time Neville said: “They were decisions made by me while Ryan has been coaching…but we all learn don’t we?”Gary and former teammate Ryan Giggs shut Café Football in Manchester a week after they axed the diner’s branch in Stratford, East LondonA third branch remains open in Singapore, operating through a different company, but both UK restaurants closed in early 2019.Singaporean businessman Peter Lim is also a shareholder at GG Hospitality and owns the majority stake in Salford City.Class of 92 stars David Beckham, Paul Scholes and Roy Keane join Neville and Giggs in each owning 10 per cent of the League Two club.Lim also owns Valencia, the team Neville famously and miserably managed for 28 games in 2016.Nevertheless, a smaller version of Café Football has since opened inside Neville’s Hotel Football just metres away from Old Trafford.Valencia owner Peter Lim has been in business with Neville for many yearsThe Stock Market GrillThe swanky Stock Market Grill closed last July – after just four months of operation.It replaced Tom Kerridges’ The Bull & Bear restaurant at Neville’s and Giggs’ Stock Exchange Hotel, also co-owned by hotelier Winston Zahra.The British brasserie was the brainchild of brothers Joe and Daniel Schofield, who already operate bars in the city.A statement released by the hotel read: “We have taken the decision to close the doors to Stock Market Grill, as of July 3.”We want to focus on the hotel’s premium cocktail bar, Sterling, in the Vault.”The restaurant will, however, continue to serve breakfast and in-room dining to all overnight guests.”The Stock Market Grill was inside the Stock Exchange Hotel in ManchesterThe hotel is one of Neville’s greatest business achievementsNeville retired from professional football in 2011 and has gone on to build up a £100million empire.He has been listed as a director of 56 businesses on Companies House.While he has interests in media, hotels, pubs, restaurants and education, his most impressive work has been in property development. Among the most high-profile interests are his two hotels, which between them hold £32million in property assets – almost a third of his corporate net wealth.The star owns a 40 per cent share in the Stock Exchange development, which is close to Piccadilly Gardens, in Manchester, alongside Giggs – and he also co-runs the luxurious Hotel Football, which overlooks Old Trafford.Earlier this year he joined Dragon’s Den as an investor, alongside Deborah Meaden, Peter Jones, Touker Suleyman, Sara Davis, and Steven Bartlett.READ MORE SUN STORIESNeville also runs Tiger Sports Management – the residual image rights and sponsorship firm that he set up in 1996 when he was just 21 years old.And he does all of this while presenting and offering commentary for Sky Sports each week.Neville joined the cast of Dragon’s Den earlier this year More

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      New Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim to be without key coach for first 2 GAMES as Darren Fletcher slapped with massive ban

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      NEW Manchester United gaffer Ruben Amorim will be without assistant Darren Fletcher for his first two Premier League games.Fletcher has been handed an extended three-match ban and a hefty fine by the FA for kicking off with officials during Man Utd’s 2-1 win over Brentford last month.Darren Fletcher has been fined and banned for three Prem games by the FAMan Utd furiously protested Brentford’s goalThe incident occurred after Ethan Pinnock netted a controversial opener on the brink of half-time at Old Trafford on October 19.United staff complained as Matthijs de Ligt was forced off the pitch by referee Samuel Barrott after blood was leaking from a gash in his head.It meant The Red Devils were down a man when Pinnock freely headed in from a corner in the final minute of first half stoppage time.Fletcher has been charged with allegedly acting in an improper or confrontational manner as he criticised the officials.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe 40-year-old United legend’s ban starts on Sunday when Leicester visit for the second time in two weeks after United’s 5-2 Carabao Cup win. This means he will miss Amorim’s first two Premier League games, against Ipswich Town on November 24 and Everton on December 1.An FA statement read: “An Independent Regulatory Commission has imposed a three-match extended touchline ban and £7,500 fine on Darren Fletcher. “The FA alleged that the coach acted in an improper and/or confrontational manner and/or that he used abusive and/or insulting words towards the fourth official and the referee and/or assistant referees around the tunnel area at half time.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Fletcher admitted to this misconduct but denied that he was abusive. Ruud van Nistelrooy rejoins Man Utd as ex-team-mate Darren Fletcher gets completely different job and two coaches axed”However, the Regulatory Commission found this to be proven and imposed his sanctions. “The Regulatory Commission’s written reasons for its decisions will be published in due course.”United face FK Bodo/Glimt inbetween Fletcher’s Prem bans, so he won’t be limited to seat in the stands during Europa League games.Both former boss Erik ten Hag and his then assistant Ruud van Nistelrooy were booked for their reactions on the touchline.But emotions also got the better of Fletcher, who is said to have exploded at the officials inside the Old Trafford tunnel, which was included in Barrott’s referee report.Despite falling behind just before the break, United responded with goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund sealing just the club’s third Prem win of the season.United are appealing the severity of Fletcher’s sanction.Man Utd ratings vs PAOKSUNSPORT’S Phil Thomas reveals which Man Utd players would have impressed incoming boss Ruben Amorim against PAOK.ANDRE ONANA – 6One great tipover to keep out a Camara half-volley.But any other stops were pretty routine.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6Another solid, if unspectacular, display.An increasingly dependable presence by the week.VICTOR LINDELOF – 6Flat-footed once in the first half, but rarely flustered thereafter.Started a few attacks as well.JONNY EVANS – 6Wise old head at the back.But lucky to get away with going AWOL for one second half chance.DIOGO DALOT – 4Usually reliable, but shoddy with so much of what he did, and his delivery wasn’t great either.Surprising he wasn’t hooked earlier.CASEMIRO – 6Starting point for most of what United did going forward.Although that wasn’t a great deal to be honest.MANUEL UGARTE – 5Still far from the midfield general United hoped.Distribution disappointing too. No shock when subbed off.AMAD – 8 (STAR MAN)Livewire runs, impressive closing down, the crucial opening goal…and a stunning second.United’s best player by some distance.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Knocked some marvellous passes, always looking to create.At least someone was!ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 6Close with one header and a couple of decent runs, but all in all a quiet night.Hooked.RASMUS HOJLUND – 5One early header aside, little to work with apart from chasing hopeful balls.No clear sights of goal, either.SUBSRashford (for Garnacho 64) 6Eriksen (for Ugarte 64) 6Martinez (for Dalot 64) 6Mount (for Amad 81) 6Zirkzee (for Hojlund 90) N/A More

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      League One star reveals he stopped a stranger from ending his life in chance meeting by train tracks

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      JAMES BROPHY knows better than most that people can become so desperate they think life is no longer worth living.If the truth of that was ever brought home to him, it was on Easter Sunday morning this year — when he stopped a stranger from ending it all.James Brophy has opened up about the emotional moment with the strangerCredit: RexAnd while the Cambridge winger did not exactly start this season full of joy himself after a nightmare start, he declared: “One point from your first nine games? That’s just football.“What that man was going through that morning, that’s something very different all together.“People can find themselves in some very dark places and I’m afraid mental health issues are something I’m all too familiar with.“My grandfather suffered from depression and one of my brothers suffers from it too — so I know how really tough that can be.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“So if I would ever see someone considering what that man was considering, I would always stop.“I was speaking to him probably for about 20 to 30 minutes, just trying to talk to him about life, really.“I said to him: ‘Look, I can’t feel your pain, or I can’t compare what you’re feeling’.“But I told him about stuff that’s happened in my family and friends and shared stories with him.Most read in EFLMacauley Bonne also spoke to the stranger after arriving at the sceneCredit: Rex“Then the police arrived and about 30 minutes later, a police counsellor came and she was really good.“She took over the conversation from me and got him to a place where he was able to sit on the kerb.“When I got to him he was on the bridge with a railway track on it that takes you into Cambridge. He was on the other side of the barrier on the railway side, ready to jump.“In fairness to the policewoman, I couldn’t talk him into getting over the other side of the barrier.“My team-mate Macauley Bonne turned up too — he had seen my car and thought it had broken down. He was a big help through it all, talking to the bloke.“I’m just glad the police were able to get him safe and away — I just did what I thought needed to be done.“You can say what you like about that morning and my role in it.“But what else could I have done but stop? In my mind it was just the right thing do and I’d do it again.”The 30-year-old and Bonne, 29, later got a visit from Chief Superintendent Jon Hutchinson in praise of their actions — while the club called the pair “inspirational”.And things have lightened up on the pitch too after that terrible start.The U’s have won three games in a row without conceding a goal going into Saturday’s clash at Peterborough.Brophy even scored his first goal in three years to see off Woking in last week’s 1–0 FA Cup first-round win.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe added: “In football just like in life, you’ve got to just keep on going no matter the challenges — a bit like me not scoring for so long!“Garry Monk’s a top manager, we’ve got good players here — sometimes things can come down to the finest of margins. It’s how you deal with tough times and we’ve shown we can do that.”Help for mental healthIf you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support.The following are free to contact and confidential:Mind, www.mind.org, provide information about types of mental health problems and where to get help for them. Email info@mind.org.uk or call the infoline on 0300 123 3393 (UK landline calls are charged at local rates, and charges from mobile phones will vary).YoungMinds run a free, confidential parents helpline on 0808 802 5544 for parents or carers worried about how a child or young person is feeling or behaving. The website has a chat option too.Rethink Mental Illness, www.rethink.org, gives advice and information service offers practical advice on a wide range of topics such as The Mental Health Act, social care, welfare benefits, and carers rights. Use its website or call 0300 5000 927 (calls are charged at your local rate).Heads Together, www.headstogether.org.uk, is the a mental health initiative spearheaded by The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales. More

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      Inside Neymar’s luxury life with supermodel Wag, private jets and beach parties as £138m-a-year salary ‘under threat’

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      NEYMAR’S luxury lifestyle is under threat as his career at Al Hilal continues to be blighted by injury.Down the years, the Brazilian trickster has been impossible for defenders to stop on the pitch and irresistible to the opposite sex off it.Neymar has one daughter, Mavie, with girlfriend Bruna BiancardiCredit: Instagram @neymarjrSupermodel Bruna has 12 million Instagram followersCredit: Instagram @brunabiancardiThe Brazilian beauty often poses on beach holidays with NeymarCredit: Instagram @brunabiancardiBut in 2016 he celebrated New Year with 26 different womenCredit: Instagram @neymarjrThe former Barcelona star is now back with his model Wag and mother of his daughter Mavie, Bruna Biancardi.And he is raking in a stunning £138m-a-year salary in Saudi Arabia.But Al Hilal are now reported to be considering terminating his contract as his injury crisis continues.The Brazilian has played just seven times in 15 months since his move from PSG, as a result of a cruciate ligament injury.READ MORE ON NEYMARWhile his injury woes have been incredibly frustrating, at least it’s given him time to enjoy himself.And enjoy himself he does, living a life of luxury.Neymar and Bruna regularly post pics from private jets and glamorous beach holidays.Earlier this year he and his Wag enjoyed a getaway with a gang of pals.Most read in FootballHaving fun is nothing new to Neymar though, back in 2019 the footie ace rang in the New Year with 26 women at an exclusive resort in Brazil.Seemingly not content with simply going on holidays at exclusive beach resorts, the Brazilian is reportedly close to buying a £7m private island in his home country.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe exotic isle of Japao is found off the coast of Rio de Janeiro and is used as a 6.1 acre all-inclusive tropical escape for a group of between two and eight people.Someone of Neymar’s wealth and influence unsurprisingly has some famous friends.Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn square up as Neymar ‘acts like guest referee’ in baffling scenesHe is regularly seen with celebrities at Saudi Arabia’s biggest sporting events.Two weeks ago he posted an album with tennis’ most successful player Novak Djokovic after the Serb visited Al Hilal.And, like fellow Saudi resident Cristiano Ronaldo, he also frequently appears at Riyadh Season boxing events which are packed with A-list names.But while the five-time Ballon d’Or winner normally has a watching brief from a front row seat, Neymar has been seen getting more involved with the action.In bizarre scenes last month, the Brazilian was in the ring separating British fighters Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn with fans claiming he was acting like a “guest referee”.Neymar has three children, each with a different partner.Neymar has also become a keen golferCredit: Instagram @neymarjrHe often rubs shoulders with celebrities, such as tennis legend Novak DjokovicCredit: Instagram @neymarjrAnd he regularly travels on private jetsCredit: Instagram @neymarjrNeymar was bizarrely seen separating Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn last monthCredit: GettyThe attacker had son David Lucca with ex Carolina Dantas 12 years ago when he was still playing for Santos.Then last October he welcomed daughter Mavie with current girlfriend Bruna.However, a month after Mavie was born, Bruna announced the end of her relationship with Neymar.READ MORE SUN STORIESThen in July this year, influencer Amanda Kimberlly announced the birth of Neymar’s third child – daughter Helena.Nevertheless, Neymar and Bruna Biancardi announced last month that they were back together, shortly after Mavie’s first birthday.Neymar and Bruna broke up and got back togetherCredit: Instagram @brunabiancardiThe couple pose with US Open tennis champion Aryna SabalenkaCredit: Instagram @neymarjrNeymar is keen to buy a private island in BrazilCredit: Japao Private IslandsIts current owners promote it as an all-inclusive tropical escapeCredit: Japao Private IslandsThe luxury getaway is found just off the coast of Rio de JaneiroCredit: Japao Private IslandsThe view of the Brazilian coast from the islandCredit: Japao Private Islands More

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      Injuries & suspensions update ahead of Gameweek 11: Latest news on Cole Palmer, Kai Havertz and others

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      DREAM TEAM brings you all the latest injury, suspension and availability news ahead of Gameweek 11 in one easily digestible dose.Cole Palmer has been considered a doubt since he was on the receiving end of a stiff challenge from Lisandro Martinez last weekend.Chelsea’s No20 is the second-most popular player in the game with an ownership above 50% but it remains to be seen whether he will feature against Arsenal on Sunday.Enzo Maresca told reporters: “He is getting better. Hopefully we can have him for a session, at least on Saturday, and then we take a decision.”Approximately 55% of Dream Team bosses will be disappointed if Palmer is ruled outCredit: Dream TeamAs for the Gunners, it’s unclear whether Declan Rice will feature at Stamford Bridge.The England midfielder skipped Arsenal’s European jaunt to Inter with a broken toe but has expressed his desire to play through the pain.However, Mikel Arteta confirmed that Rice hasn’t trained this week and is therefore a major doubt.Kai Havertz and Mikel Merino are also concerns after issues in midweek – the former suffered a nasty cut to his head but it would be a surprise if he wasn’t involved.Tottenham will make a late call on Cristian Romero following Saturday’s training session but Micky van de Ven has been ruled out until after the international break.Richarlison, Mikey Moore, Timo Werner and Wilson Odobert also remain sidelined.Most read in FootballOn Son Heung-min, Ange Postecoglou said: “He obviously had the injury, and we brought him back, and he had a relapse. We don’t want to put him in that position. We’re building him up, managing his minutes.”Havertz was left bloodied in MilanCredit: GettyAhead of Manchester City’s trip to Brighton, Pep Guardiola expects to have the same players available that were present in Lisbon last time out.This means Jack Grealish is not available despite having been included in England’s latest squad.As for the Seagulls, both Joao Pedro and Matt O’Reilly have a “big chance” of making the matchday squad.Liverpool have no fresh concerns ahead of their meeting with Aston Villa on Saturday night.Diogo Jota, Alisson, Harvey Elliott and Federico Chiesa all need more time to recover.The Villains will only be missing Ross Barkley and Matty Cash at Anfield.Eddie Nketiah has joined Eberechi Eze, Adam Wharton, Jefferson Lerma, Chadi Riad and Matheus Franca on Crystal Palace’s injury list.Midfielder Will Hughes is also suspended for the Eagles.Elsewhere, Mohammed Kudus has had his ban extended to five games in total, meaning he won’t return for West Ham until early December.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWARSENALInjuries: Kieran Tierney, Riccardo Calafiori, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Declan Rice (doubt), Kai Havertz (doubt), Mikel Merino (doubt)Suspensions: NoneASTON VILLAInjuries: Ross Barkley, Matty CashSuspensions: NoneBOURNEMOUTHInjuries: Luis Sinisterra, Alex Scott, Dango OuattaraSuspensions: NoneBRENTFORDInjuries: Aaron Hickey, Igor Thiago, Josh Dasilva, Gustavo Nunes, Rico Henry, Kristoffer AjerSuspensions: NoneBRIGHTONInjuries: Solly March, Matt O’Riley (doubt), James Milner, Joao Pedro (doubt), Adam Webster, Yankuba Minteh (doubt), Lewis Dunk (doubt), Yasin Ayari (doubt)Suspensions: NoneCHELSEAInjuries: Cole Palmer (doubt)Suspensions: NoneCRYSTAL PALACEInjuries: Matheus Franca, Chris Richards (doubt), Cheick Doucoure, Chadi Riad, Adam Wharton, Eberechi Eze, Jefferson Lerma, Eddie NketiahSuspensions: Will HughesEVERTONInjuries: Youssef Chermiti, Armando Broja, Tim Iroegbunam, James Garner, Abdoulaye Doucoure (doubt), Dwight McNeil (doubt), Iliman Ndiaye (doubt), Seamus ColemanSuspensions: NoneFULHAMInjuries: Sasa LukicSuspensions: NoneIPSWICHInjuries: Axel Tuanzebe, Jacob Greaves, Chiedozie Ogbene, Jack Taylor, Janoi DonacienSuspensions: Kalvin PhillipsLEICESTERInjuries: Patson Daka (doubt), Jakub Stolarczyk, Hamza Choudhury (doubt)Suspensions: NoneLIVERPOOLInjuries: Harvey Elliott, Federico Chiesa, Alisson, Diogo JotaSuspensions: NoneMANCHESTER CITYInjuries: Oscar Bobb, Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne, Jack Grealish, John StonesSuspensions: NoneMANCHESTER UNITEDInjuries: Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro, Tyrell Malacia, Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire, Amad Diallo (doubt)Suspensions: NoneNEWCASTLEInjuries: Callum Wilson, Jamaal Lascelles, Sven Botman, Kieran TrippierSuspensions: NoneNOTTINGHAM FORESTInjuries: Danilo, Ibrahim SangareSuspensions: NoneSOUTHAMPTONInjuries: Gavin Bazunu, Ross Stewart, Will Smallbone, Ryan Fraser (doubt), Adam Lallana (doubt)Suspensions: NoneTOTTENHAMInjuries: Djed Spence, Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero (doubt), Wilson Odobert, Timo Werner, Richarlison, Mikey MooreSuspensions: NoneWEST HAMInjuries: Niclas Fullkrug, Edson AlvarezSuspensions: Mohammed KudusWOLVESREAD MORE SUN STORIESInjuries: Sasa Kalajdzic, Enso Gonzalez, Boubacar Traore, Bastien Meupiyou (doubt), Yerson Mosquera, Hwang Hee-chan (doubt)Suspensions: NoneBetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £40 in free bets — HERE**New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 4x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 1 x £10 Bet Builder, 1 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      I learned as much from Neil Warnock as I did Pep Guardiola, now I’m making my way as a manager in the EFL at 36

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      NARCIS PELACH can name-drop for fun when he talks about some of the great managers he has learnt from.Top of the list is Pep Guardiola. There was also Marcelo Bielsa.Narcis Pelach is hoping to make a name for himself at Stoke CityCredit: GettyThe Spaniard has worked with Pep GuardiolaCredit: ReutersPelach also credits Neil Warnock with expanding his football educationCredit: RexAs a coach at Girona he was assistant to Juan Carlos Unzue, who spent six years working under Guardiola at Barcelona.And in the same breath there is . . . Neil Warnock, forever known as The Warlock thanks to his reputation for being a master of the dark arts of football.For many, the old-timer’s in-yer-face philosophy is about as far from the Beautiful Game and cerebral thinkers like Pep and Bielsa as it gets.But Pelach – known affectionately as Chicho – will not hear a word said against Warnock when he describes how important he was in furthering the higher education that won him his first job as a boss with Stoke City.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe 36-year-old said: “For me to work under Neil Warnock and Ronnie Jepson, I cannot explain how grateful I am. It was a brilliant experience to have.”Neil told me, ‘You’re going to see some tricks here — you will see some things you have never seen’. He was right.”Thanks to his friendship with Unzue, Pelach was also granted a week to shadow Guardiola at the Etihad.And he became mates with fellow Spaniard Carlos Corberan, who was one of Bielsa’s coaches at Leeds during the first two years of the maverick Argentinian’s wild ride at Elland Road.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCorberan allowed him a deep dive into Bielsa’s ways before becoming manager of Huddersfield and making Pelach a coach.It was there, too, that Warnock made such a huge impression on him.’I was a zebra, Shane Duffy was Goldilocks’ – Norwich City star Kellen Fisher on wild Xmas partys, dinner with Delia and team-mates getting eggedAt the age of 74, he came out of retirement to keep the Terriers in the Championship after taking over when they were seven points from safety in the 2022-23 campaign.Pelach talks about his days watching and talking to Guardiola with reverence, and he knows he owes Unzue, as well as Corberan for showing him Bielsa’s magic.But Warnock was just as special to him through the five years he studied and worked his way up in English football.Pelach said: “It was such an enjoyable time for me and I think he is a manager that all English people should be proud of. “The training methods are different, of course, but he is not so much a coach as a man–management manager.Who are these famous footballers?”In four months I saw lots of things that you can do with one squad to make them successful – and I was never going to see that anywhere else.”Was that experience as valuable in its way as spending a week shadowing Pep?”Of course, yes – even if Pep is the best manager in the world, the best in history and he has a power about him.”I will never forget when he was talking to me the first time. I never wanted that conversation to end.”I have spoken to some players who were under him and they all said, ‘When Pep comes into the dressing room and talks, you just want him to stay there’.”It is not just his knowledge. It is his pure love for football — the charisma, the aura, the certainty of sticking to what you believe in and what you want to do.Pep Guardiola set for final Man City seasonBy Martin BlackburnAFTER eight glorious years of stability, Manchester City now head into an uncertain 12 months.And Saturday’s FA Cup final defeat to neighbours United was a reminder that this glittering and unforgettable era will not go on for ever.Around this time in 2025, City will be preparing for the highly-lucrative Fifa Club World Cup in the US.Yet in all likelihood they will also be getting ready to say their goodbyes to manager Pep Guardiola, who has brought so much success to the east side of Manchester.Meanwhile, there could be a verdict on 115 charges of financial irregularity which have been levelled at the club by Premier League chiefs.The suggestion is the hearing could start later this year but is likely to take several months to reach a conclusion.City continue to deny any wrongdoing and are confident they will be cleared by the independent commission.Read Martin Blackburn’s full column here.”That week was a fantastic experience but it was the same with Neil.”I value all of those I have worked for or learnt from Pep, Bielsa, Carlos Corberan, David Wagner at Norwich City.”Juan Carlos Unzue, too, who taught me so much and worked not only with Pep but with  Frank Rijkaard, Luis Enrique. He was a player under Johan Cruyff.”The months I was there with him at Girona I learnt the Barcelona philosophy and he said I had to go on this journey.”I value them all of them just the same – and Neil Warnock as much as any of them.”Pelach, who is ten games into his new job after coaching at the Canaries, is likely to need to be more Warnock than Guardiola to restore the soul the Potters lost after relegation from the Prem in 2018.He is the sixth full-time manager since they dropped into the Championship.And ahead of Saturday’s home game against Millwall, he added: “History says in these last years that no one has been capable to change that mood.READ MORE SUN STORIES”But I come with energy and belief and all the knowledge I have been so fortunate to gain in these five years – my coaching dissertation was based on 1,000 games.”I want to be the man who changes the mood, who gets Stoke back up to where it belongs. That is my dream.” More

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      Jude Bellingham’s brother Jobe, 19, just one step away from joining him in England team after latest call-up

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      JOBE BELLINGHAM is climbing the England ranks – and still has “huge potential” to discover.Sunderland’s 19-year-old, the younger brother of Three Lions and Real Madrid star Jude, has already been capped at every level from Under-16 to Under-20.Sunderland star Jobe Bellingham has received an England Under-21 call-upCredit: RexJobe could soon link up with brother Jude Bellingham at England’s senior teamCredit: RexNow his fine form for the Championship leaders has been rewarded with a first Under-21 call-up for the upcoming matches with Spain and the Netherlands.Black Cats boss Regis Le Bris says: “He deserved to have this because he has played very well so far and it should be a good experience for him.“He’s very young but has shown consistency and we’ve tried to find a stable position for him.“He has improved many things in his game. He can do many things, he’s the complete player with a huge potential to discover.Read More on Football“He wants to improve every day and his standards are very high.”Jobe’s big brother Jude, 21, has been struggling to replicate last season’s stunning performances this term.The versatile midfielder registered a staggering 23 goals and 13 assists in 42 appearances during the 2023-24 campaign.However, the England superstar has yet to score a goal this season after 12 matches.Most read in ChampionshipBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe ex-Borussia Dortmund star has only managed three assists across all competitions so far.Fatigue over the summer with the Three Lions spilled into injury at the start of this season, with Jude missing four games.Jude Bellingham FaceTimes brother Jobe from Bernabeu pitch before scoring wonder goal for Real MadridBut even when fit he looks well off his best, shunted around by Real boss Carlos Ancelotti as the Italian struggles to find a role for last season’s talisman. More

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      Inside Premier League clubs’ weirdest partnerships including vodka, cereal and Man Utd’s official tractor partner

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      PREMIER LEAGUE clubs are doing all they can to avoid the dreaded PSR punishments. And that means finding more and more unorthodox ways to generate cash.Arsenal and Manchester City are among the Premier League clubs with bizarre partnershipsCredit: AlamyManchester United once had an official tractor partnerCredit: AFPNow it has got to the point where every team has a long list of “official partners” who pay to be sponsored and have their brand associated with them.Most clubs seem to have a few staples these days with beer, logistics, betting, tyres, formalwear, energy and destination partners joining the more traditional kit and “principal” partners – usually the sponsors on the kit. But there have also been some far more unusual ones over the years. Manchester United once famously had an official tractor partner and even an official noodles partner.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLJapanese tractor manufacturing powerhouse Yanmar swapped the field for the pitch while Mamee Noodles fed off the Old Trafford club’s rich history to sign an utterly bizarre contract.West Brom, meanwhile, encouraged their aspiring young fans to infiltrate enemy territory to study at their higher education partner, the University of Wolverhampton – located 11.3 miles away from The Hawthorns but literally over the road from rivals Wolves’ home ground Molineux. So, what are some of the weirdest and wackiest deals struck between Premier League clubs and corporate companies?ARSENALArsenal pride themselves on looking fresh – and their kits are always in mint condition.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSNow we know why.It’s because they have a deal with laundry giants Persil as the club’s official fabric care partner – I bet the kit man is delighted.Arsenal star Saka stars in touching ad for PersilArsenal appointed Persil as their official fabric care partnerCredit: PersilThe kitman has some extra help keeping the Gunners’ kits fresh and cleanCredit: https://www.instagram.com/arsenal/ASTON VILLABeers, ciders and wines are not uncommon partners – even a few clubs have a whiskey partner. But Aston Villa have upped the ante by signing Ukrainian company Nemiroff as their official vodka partner.Not entirely sure why a club would need one – but it turns out Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran are not the only ones taking shots at Villa Park this season. Nemiroff vodka and Aston Villa’s strikers provide two very different types of shotsCredit: GettyBOURNEMOUTHBournemouth are not exactly known for their silverware.The Cherries’ entire trophy cabinet features one Championship, one League One, a League Two play-off, an EFL Trophy and the Third Division South Cup in 1945-46.Still, that has not stopped them doing a deal with local business Michael Matthews to be their official jeweller partner – with the company specialising in pre-owned luxury watches and fine jewellery.They even provide the club’s Player of the Month trophies, too. Bournemouth haven’t got many trophies to show for their jeweller partnerCredit: GettyBRENTFORDWhenever you move home, it is the perfect chance to freshen up your interior design. So that would explain why the Bees signed a deal with Brunner UK as their official contract furniture partner when they switched Griffin Park for the Gtech Community Stadium. Brentford are feeling comfortable in their new home thanks to Brunner UKCredit: GettyFULHAMHere’s one you would never have guessed.Fulham have their very own official managed print partner in the form of UTL.In fairness, football clubs do have to do a lot of printing – especially neighbours Chelsea with their squad list. Fulham’s website says: “UTL have provided multi-functional scan/copy/print devices and a secure print release solution to the stadium, training ground and foundation. This has been done utilising Epson’s heat-free technology.”Riveting stuff! Marco Silva has printed his mark on the Fulham teamCredit: GettyMAN CITYEver wondered why Pep Guardiola’s players have so much energy?Nope, definitely not anything to do with working hard in the gym or tiring opponents out by keeping the ball for so long.The only explanation is because City have landed Kellogg’s as their official breakfast cereals partner.That surely means unlimited Bran Flakes, Coco Pops, Frosties, Corn Flakes and Krave whenever the stars want – plus occasional Pop Tarts as a win bonus. Manchester City players can start the day with a bowl of Kellogg’s Coco PopsCredit: AlamyMAN UTDForget trophies, big-name signings and beating your local rivals.The real bragging rights every fan wants from their beloved team is to have an official Wi-Fi network solutions provider and official Wi-Fi analytics provider.Because that is what Extreme Networks are for Manchester United.Rolls off the tongue… And it makes their blockchain, skincare, video game, coffee, mattress and pillow, percussion therapy and electronic styling partnerships looks quite – err – normal. A mattress and pillow may come in handy when watching Manchester United at timesCredit: GettyNEWCASTLEForget Harrods and Selfridges.Up in the North East there is only one candidate for the No1 department store and that is Fenwick.No wonder Newcastle made them their official luxury retail store partner. Fenwick come out on top as Newcastle’s luxury retail store partnerCredit: AlamySOUTHAMPTONSouthampton need to drill down on the training ground and hammer home their tactics.They have even thrown a spanner in the works by appointing Draper as their official tool partner. If they can keep chiselling away, screw over the big teams and keep their spirit levels up to avoid relegation, the Saints can reward themselves with an end-of-season trip away with their official holiday partner, P&O Cruises. Draper could provide the right tools for SouthamptonSurvival could result in a holiday with P&O CruisesCredit: PAWEST HAMThis might be the best of the lot. West Ham have an… wait for it… official vehicle collision recovery and storage management partner in the shape of NWVA.They operate across the UK and Europe but at the rate things are going, the biggest crash they’ll need to sort out is the mess under Julen Lopetegui at the London Stadium. NWVA provide collision recovery – but can they help turn around West Ham’s season?Credit: PAWOLVESSaving the most fun until last is Wolves.The idea of an official family partner is very sweet.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut then you realise the partner is none other than the epic theme park and zoo Drayton Manor Resort and that just makes it so much better. They’ll be able to provide plenty of practice for a rollercoaster season. Wolves fans could have a rollercoaster season with Drayton Manor as their partnerCredit: Alamy More