Soccer

MIKEL ARTETA raised one reporter’s eyebrows with a bold claim he made in a live TV interview after Arsenal’s defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.The Spaniard was adamant his side were the better team over the two legs, despite losing both games in a 3-1 aggregate defeat.Mikel Arteta left reporter Anita Jones unconvinced after a bold claimJones pressed Arteta for answers and appeared to doubt his responsesCredit: GettyFans loved her no-nonsense approachCredit: GettyJones is a reporter for CBS SportsCredit: GettyHe also suggested PSG had their goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma to thank for the win, saying he was the man of the match in both legs.But CBS Sports reporter Anita Jones quickly corrected the Arsenal boss live on air, pointing out that Achraf Hakimi had in fact got the award after netting the winner in Paris.The interview continued awkwardly as the reporter began to press Arteta further.The Gunners chief repeated the claims he made in his post-match press conference that coaches on the opposition bench had admitted Arsenal were the better team, which PSG boss Luis Enrique later denied.READ MORE IN ARSENALAnd Jones was quick to quiz Arteta on who it was he had spoken to.She asked: “Who did you speak to sorry?”A surprised Arteta dodged the question, instead explaining why his team lost, suggesting they did not have enough quality in the attacking box.Jones again asked: “Who was it that you spoke to?”Most read in Champions League”A few people of them,” replied Arteta.BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesJones then said wryly: “Oh and they shared that opinion.”Fans love the exchange and the no-nonsense approach from the reporter.This week’s title: How ‘brave’ Arsenal were denied by PSG in Champions League semi-finalOn reacted saying: “Damn, she’s savage.”Another added: “That woman has more balls interviewing him than any other interviewer, fair play to her for sticking it to him.”And a third wrote: “This is comedy gold. The way she pushes him and you just can see how he is straight up lying.”Arteta also made the claim Arsenal have been the best team in this year’s Champions League.He said: “I don’t think there has been a better team in the competition so far.Read More on The Sun”But we are out tonight and we deserve much more in both games.”But this competition is about the boxes, the strikers and a goalkeeper, who was their best player in both games.” More

ATHLETIC BILBAO have suffered further woes ahead of their clash with Manchester United – after player were stuck in a LIFT.The Champions League-chasing Basques were hammered 3-0 at San Mames last week, leaving them with it all to do at Old Trafford in the Europa League.Ernesto Valverde revealed nine of his players got stuck in a lift at the weekendCredit: EPAAthletic Bilbao are looking to turn around a three-goal deficit at Old TraffordCredit: GettyShould they achieve a miracle comeback, they will play the Europa League final against Bodo/Glimt or Tottenham at their own stadium.But boss Ernesto Valverde revealed that things took a farcical turn at the weekend.He said: “How is the team? I saw it very well.”We had a difficult match against Real Sociedad and a mishap.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”Nine players were trapped in the lift, which had a capacity of eight people. “But we got them out before the match and managed to earn a draw.”Bilbao’s preparations for this game at Old Trafford have also not been helped by the absence of three of their star players.Brothers Nico and Inaki Williams have stayed at home along with attacking midfielder Oihan Sancet, who has scored 15 LaLiga goals this season.Most read in Europa LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut Valverde insisted Athletic have not simply given up on the tie, with all three players ruled out due to injury.He commented: “If any one [of them] could have been here, they would be here. ‘Were we not good enough-‘ – Man Utd legend Roy Keane takes cheeky dig at David Beckham over 50th birthday snub”Because this game is the most important of the season right now.”I don’t understand the question. You talk to the doctor and the players, but there’s not much to decide. Those who are injured can’t play.”The Basques will also be without Dani Vivian after his red card in last week’s game. More

ALEJANDRO GARNACHO suggested this week that he will stay at Manchester United this summer.But that is unlikely to deter the growing number of clubs who are interested in signing the Argentinian winger this summer.Alejandro Garnacho is not short of suitorsCredit: GettyNapoli and Chelsea were leading the chase in January – but the Italian club did not want to rip up their wage structure in mid-season.They are still monitoring his situation while his former club Atletico Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen are also admirers.United would find it hard to resist a big offer for the 20-year-old as he classes as home grown.And that would make a sale particularly valuable when it comes to falling into line with the Prem’s profit and sustainability rules.With Ruben Amorim eyeing moves for Matheus Cunha and Liam Delap this summer, they may need to raise some funds, particularly if they miss out on the Champions League.Despite Garnacho’s words, you might not have heard the end of that one yet.RASH TO JUDGEMENTMARCUS RASHFORD took to Instagram on New Year’s Day to deny SunSport’s story that he was in talks with top agency Stellar to help get a move out of Manchester United.He wrote: “Been a lot of false stories written over past few weeks but guys this is getting ridiculous. Never met with any other agency and don’t have any plans to.”Rashford has always been represented by his two brothers and the implication was he trusted them to manage the first big move of his career.Imagine our surprise then to see reports from Spain this week that the England ace is looking for help from another agent to secure a dream move to Barcelona.Can’t be true, surely – or can it?Marcus Rashford could be set for a change of agentCredit: AlamyWe lose our minds’ – Amorim fears conceding three to Bilbao as he calls Man Utd ‘worst team in Prem since I arrived’LOST HIS TRAIN OF THOUGHTNOT all of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s cost-cutting exercises since taking over at Old Trafford have worked.The club has reduced the number of security guards who manage the flow of cars and people outside Old Trafford on a daily basis as fans visit the ground for a stadium tour and to buy replica shirts at the superstore.But some cheeky commuters are taking the chance to park up for free and then jump on a nearby Metrolink to Manchester city centre to save on parking costs.Not all of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s cost-cutting measures have had the desired effectCredit: GettyLIND AHOYVICTOR LINDELOF is coming to the end of his eight year stay at Old Trafford and it is widely accepted he will leave this summer.But don’t be surprised to see the Swede lining up against the Red Devils next season – as several Prem clubs are showing an interest in the free agent.One of those is understood to be West Ham who weighed up a move in January.He has offers from abroad too – with his former club Benfica making a strong push.Victor Lindelof could be playing against Man Utd next seasonCredit: GettyTIME FOR CHANGECONFIRMATION that this Sunday’s home game against West Ham would be moved to Sunday was met with an eye roll from many United fans.Because it meant the Red Devils will have had just ONE Saturday 3pm kick off in the Prem this season.And that one came when Brentford visited the Theatre of Dreams way back in mid-October.United’s run to the latter stages of the Europa League has meant many of their games have been moved back to Sunday.Indeed the Old Trafford faithful have had to find other things to do with their Saturdays during the current campaign.Their team have had only six Saturday games in 2024/5 – three at lunchtime and two in the evening along with the one against the Bees in the autumn.At least they won’t be in the Europa League next season so there might be a few more traditional kick-off times for them.Old Trafford has seen just one 3pm kick-off this seasonCredit: PAFINAL COUNTDOWNUNITED are only likely to get around 14,000 for the Europa League final in Bilbao on May 21 – although thousands more are expected to travel in hope of getting into the San Mames.However those who decide to stay at home and save thousands of pounds on flights and accommodation are still likely to be catered for.Plans are in place for a giant fan zone – for around 50,000 Red Devils at the BEC Arena in Stretford, which is just a 10 minute drive from Old Trafford.Organisers ‘4 the Fans’ have already put tickets for the event on sale with a promise they will give a full refund if Ruben Amorim’s men blow it on Thursday night.Plans are in place for a fan zone for Man Utd fans who can’t make it to the finalCredit: PAQUICK GETAWAYIT’S been clear for a while that United are prioritising the Europa League over the Prem in the final weeks of the season.And they proved it by losing at Brentford on Sunday – their 16th league defeat of the season – and then clearing the Gtech Stadium within 45 minutes of the final whistle.Ruben Amorim clearly felt every minute could be crucial in preparing his team for the second leg against Athletic Bilbao and wanted to get his players back home as quickly as possible.Man Utd had left the Gtech Stadium just 45 minutes after their defeat at BrentfordCredit: AFPDEVILS IN THE DETAILUNITED have not had much interest in the Champions League this season.But fans were heartened to see two of their former stars – Inter’s Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Matteo Darmian – celebrating reaching the final with Wayne Rooney on Tuesday night.The former England ace was at the San Siro as a pundit and took time to congratulate his two old team-mates following their epic win over Barcelona.Ex-Man Utd star Henrikh Mkhitaryan helped Inter Milan to the Champions League finalCredit: EPACANINE ABLEDIOGO DALOT has had a woof time of it recently – and is battling to recover from a calf problem before the end of the season.Sources close to the Portuguese say he has not given up hope of being ready in time for a potential Europa League final on May 21.But he took to Instagram to thank Phoenix Dogs for looking after his pets, posting: ‘Thank you for treating well my boys’.The company describes itself as ‘Expert Canine Behaviourists’ – and says they are trusted by Premier League and VIP clients.Diogo Dalot gave a ringing endorsement to a VIP dog homeCredit: AlamyKING BANISHEDYOUNG defender Jack Kingdon was told this week he was being released by United – but he could still get a Hollywood ending.The academy graduate is being pursued by several Championship clubs.And at the front of the queue are newly-promoted Wrexham – owned by Tinseltown pair Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.Jack Kingdon is being released by Man Utd and could end up at WrexhamCredit: Alamy More

A BAYERN MUNICH star had his hat stolen amid chaotic celebrations in Paris after PSG’s win over Arsenal.There was a fervent atmosphere in the French capital pre and post-match, with Luis Enrique’s side beating the Gunners 2-1 (3-1 on aggregate).Sacha Boey got stuck in a crowd of fans as he left PSG vs ArsenalCredit: XThe defender’s hat was whipped off his headCredit: XBoey looked dumbfounded after the stealCredit: XThe Bayern star gave the thief a death stareCredit: XFlares were set off by supporters ahead of kick-off and riot police were called out to deal with trouble.After the game there were further scenes of disorder as thugs and vandals descended onto the streets.Crowds of PSG fans celebrated wildly and one yob managed to steal a Bayern player’s hat.Full-back Sacha Boey was travelling in his car leaving the ground after watching the second leg action.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe got stuck in the crowd and was quickly surrounded by fans, many of whom filmed Boey.One individual then reached into Boey’s convertible and whisked his cap off his head.The Frenchman gave a death stare at the culprit but could do nothing, leaving him fuming.However he later saw the funny side as he took a selfie without his hat.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHe shared the snap on social media alongside the caption: “Come return my hat guys 😂😂😂😂😂😂❤️”French riot police ‘tear gas entire streets’ as fans ‘throw fireworks’ in chaotic scenes before PSG vs Arsenal More

ARSENAL are set for a huge squad overhaul this summer with a £150MILLION splurge – as SEVEN stars are set to be shown the exit.The Gunners have endured yet another trophyless season after their Champions League exit at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain and the club recognise the need for several world class players.Arsenal’s Champions League exit to PSG leaves them with nothing to show for their seasonCredit: ShutterstockArsenal need a new No9 and Alexander Isak is a top targetCredit: GettyHugo Ekitike is also expected to land a big-money move this summerCredit: GettyThe club are now preparing for a ruthlessly busy transfer window that could change their fortunes for next season.Arsenal are comfortable spending big on major talent, forking out just over £200m in the summer of 2023 for Declan Rice [£105m], Kai Havertz [£65m] and Jurrien Timber [£35m] – but what about this summer?Transfer targets New sporting director Andrea Berta’s main focus is on finding an elite No9 to take the North Londoners to the next level.Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, 25, is top of Arteta’s wishlist, unsurprising given their faltering firepower is one of the team’s biggest weaknesses.READ MORE ON ARSENALThe Swede has 23 league goals this season and will not be let go easily, as the Carabao Cup winners hold out for £150million.SunSport revealed that Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitike, 22, is being targeted as a cheaper, £60m, alternative.Other targets include long-desired RB Leipzig’s Sesko, 21, and Sporting’s Gyokeres, 26, with over 50 goals between them.Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams is another attacking target but as with the previous names, could prove financially difficult due to his large wages.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSNico Williams is another Arsenal attacking targetCredit: RexArsenal have already struck a deal to sign Martin ZubimendiCredit: GettyFinal midfield strengthening will depend on how talks develop with Thomas Partey but there is already an agreement to splash out £51m on Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, 26, with that deal expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks. Finally, well-admired Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen is being explored as an option with Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens and Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia linked to the club as well. ‘Upset’ Mikel Arteta claims there ‘hasn’t been a better team’ than Arsenal in the Champions League in blunt interviewOutgoingsIn order to make space for the Gunners’ hopeful incomings, some fringe players may face the chop. Oleksandr Zinchenko, Kieran Tierney and Gabriel Jesus are among those potentially being shown the door but the Brazilian forward’s knee injury has delayed the discussion of offers.Defender Nuno Tavares, midfielders Fabio Viera and Albert Lokonga could also leave alongside Sterling who will return to Stamford Bridge at the end of his loan.Gabriel Jesus is set to leave this summer with Thomas Partey’s future uncertainCredit: GettyOleksandr Zinchenko and Kieran Tierney are both expected to be offloadedCredit: GettyNew contracts Good news for Arsenal fans, the club are attempting to secure a new contract with beloved star Bukayo Saka.Reports have said that talks are positive, with a shiny new deal looming that could make the 23-year-old one of the best-paid players in the league.There are also plans to hand out new contracts to stars like William Saliba and Gabriel – with their current deals expiring in the summer of 2027.Fellow Hale End graduates Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri, both 18, will also likely be offered improved contracts.Join SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The Emirates More

XAVI has been getting it in the neck from his wife for the amount of football he’s been watching during his unemployment.The legendary Spanish midfielder has been spending more time with his other half since his reign as Barcelona manager came to an end last May.Xavi Hernandez was brutally sacked by Barcelona last MayCredit: GETTYThe Spaniard has been using his unemployment to spend more time with his wife, Nuria CunilleraCredit: GETTYCunillera has been frustrated by the amount of football Xavi has been watchingCredit: EPAHis Nou Camp axing, however, hasn’t dampened his passion for the game, which he still watches daily.But wife, Nuria Cunillera, is getting annoyed with the number of games he’s watching and vented her frustrations during United’s epic Europa League quarter-final second-leg comeback against Lyon last month.The 45-year-old said of his unemployment in an interview with The Athletic: “I still love football, it’s my passion. I’m watching it 24 HOURS [a day].”My wife complains to me: ‘Again!’ she says. ‘Yes but it’s the Europa League,’ I reply. Did you see the game between Man United and Lyon?READ MORE ON MAN UTD”It was 4-2 to Lyon. I was thinking, ‘Oh no. Very difficult now for Amorim!’ And then, 10 minutes later, it was incredible.”“The maximum number of games I’ve watched in one day was EIGHT. I like to analyse teams.”I might put into my computer ‘Atalanta’ and then watch them four games in a row. Why?”Because I might be interested to see what [Gian Piero] Gasperini is doing.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSXavi’s wife was annoyed when her husband watched Manchester United’s epic comeback against Lyon last monthCredit: GETTY”Man to man, 90-minute duels for every player, that’s why they sign strong, physical players. Or (Roberto) De Zerbi at Marseille.”Or Nuno Espirito Santo at Forest. I love to see the different styles of football and what coaches are doing.”Xavi to leave BarcelonaXavi was replaced at the Nou Camp helm by Hansi Flick, who this season guided the Catalan club to the Champions League semi-finals.And despite the brutal nature of his axing, his family still very much loves the club.He said: “My children love the team; my son adores Lamine Yamal and Pedri.”While my daughter follows Raphinha and [Robert] Lewandowski, we live the atmosphere of Barcelona in all its details.”We watch the first team and the women’s team matches; people think I am sad after my departure.”But I am proud of what Flick is doing and happy with the team’s level.” More

TOTTENHAM travel to Bodo/Glimt for the second leg of their Europa League semi-final TONIGHT.Spurs head to the Norwegian minnows with a 3-1 advantage after last week’s opener in North London.Ulrik Saltnes’s 83rd-minute strike has given Bodo/Glimt a glimmer of hope after his stunning strike narrowed Tottenham’s lead.Should Spurs get over the line in Norway, it looks highly likely that they will face Premier League rivals Manchester United in the Europa League final as they lead Athletic Bilbao 3-0.Kick off time: 8pm BSTTV channel: TNT Sports 2Live stream: discovery+Bodo/Glimt team: To follow…Tottenham team: To follow…CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Ange Postecoglou on the importance on reaching a European finalCopy linkCopiedLooking aheadAfter their first leg victory, Spurs are optimistic of making the final of the Europa League.So much so, that they have requested their clash against Aston Villa be moved.It won’t come back to bite them, surely? Copy linkCopiedNot the momentum they wantSpurs played a massive clash in the context of the Premier League table last weekend, but it did not end how they would have liked.They faced West Ham, who are also struggling this season, but the Hammers held Spurs to a 1-1 draw.They will hope for a better showing tonight, although a draw would be enough to see them into the Europa League final.Copy linkCopiedThe time is now!It’s been a poor season for Tottenham but all of that negativity can be washed away tonight!Ange Postecoglu’s side hold a 3-1 advantage from the first leg but now must navigate a plastic pitch wet weather in Norway.Surely even Spurs can’t throw it away from here?Can they?Credit: RexCopy linkCopied More

A LEEDS supporter is fighting for his life in hospital after falling from a tree during their title celebrations.Thousands of fans lined the streets on Monday for an open-top bus parade following the club’s promotion back to the Premier League.Ed O’Brien is fighting for his life after falling from a treeCredit: JustgivingThousands of supporters filled the city centre to celebrate promotionCredit: PABut disaster struck when supporter Ed O’Brien fell from a tree in Millennium Square.The 23-year-old was rushed to hospital and is now in a coma.A JustGiving page was launched in support Ed’s brave fight and a whopping £10,000 has so far been raised, smashing the £750 target.Basketball star Larry Nance Jr has contributed, donating £2,000 to the cause.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAlong with the cash, he wrote: “Thinking of you. Strength and love!”The Atlanta Hawks ace is a huge Leeds supporter and an investor in the 49ers Enterprises group that own the club.Ed’s mum Stacey Barker wrote online: “As far as I am aware, he had consumed alcohol but I am confident he wasn’t paralytic as some posts are suggesting. “I am also as confident as a mother can be that no other substance was involved.”Most read in FootballShe added that his recovery is set to be a “slow and lengthy process” and “unlikely to be without implications”.The JustGiving page reads: “To support Ed O’Brien and his family after Ed sadly fell out of a tree when celebrating Leeds winning the league on Monday and now is sadly fighting for his life in hospital.”His mum and dad both live in York and at this time it will be costing them both a lot in travel and time off work.”I am just hoping we can all raise some money to take that stress away from them. MOT stay strong Ed.”Larry Nance Jr has donated £2,000 to the fundraiserCredit: Getty More