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    Arsenal and Bayern Munich to do battle off the pitch as well as on it as they target transfer for Real Sociedad star

    ARSENAL face a battle on and off the pitch with Bayern Munich with the Champions League quarter-finalists both reportedly eyeing Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi.The midfielder “remains on the list” as a top transfer target at the Emirates Stadium ahead of the 2024 summer window.Martin Zubimendi ‘remains on Arsenal’s list’ to target in the summer transfer windowCredit: GettyThe Gunners are looking to bolster their squad ahead of next season as boss Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu Gaspar continuously work to improve their current squad.Zubimendi has emerged as a player of interest, with him becoming one of LaLiga’s leading midfielders.And transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed Arteta’s side are eyeing up the 25-year-old.But he adds they will have to battle Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich for the Spanish international’s signature.READ MORE ON ARSENALHe tweeted: “Understand Martin Zubimendi remains on Arsenal list. And he was on top of Bayern list in case Xabi Alonso was gonna become their new coach. “Bayern still appreciates Zubimendi as one of the targets but final decision will be up to next manager. It’s all quiet with Barca.”It means Arsenal, who face Bayern Munich in the Champions League later this month, must out-do their German rivals in the transfer market too.Arsenal are keen to bolster their midfield department, despite signing recording addition Declan Rice last year.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERZubimendi has established himself as a key player for Imanol Alguacil’s side after rising through the ranks at Sociedad.He led the LaLiga outfit to a place in the last-16 of the Champions League before eventually crashing out to Paris Saint-Germain. Three ways Declan Rice has become one of the world’s top midfieldersThe Spain international still has three years left on his contract with Sociedad, hinting they are in no rush to sell him.Zubimendi said: “I have never planned to leave Real Sociedad, I always say that. I love life here, at home, I’m so happy here. “The values of this club are the same as mine so I feel very good, I always said that I’m happy.”However, the benefit of playing in the Premier League for one of Europe’s most successful sides could be hard for Zubimendi to turn down.  More

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    Liverpool and Man City could face off again this season to decide Premier League title – but Arsenal WON’T be involved

    LIVERPOOL and Manchester City could face a title play-off – but whatever happens Arsenal will NOT play an extra game.That one-off drama is the most amazing scenario possible if a tense fight for the Premier League crown ends with two teams totally level at the top.Mo Salah is mobbed after his winner at home to Brighton left Liverpool two points clear at the top of the Premier LeagueCredit: PAMikel Arteta saw Arsenal hold Man City 0-0 to stay secondCredit: ReutersLiverpool’s 2-1 comeback win over Brighton and City’s 0-0 draw against Arsenal confirmed how close the battle is.Jurgen Klopp’s Reds are two points clear of the Gunners, with Pep Guardiola’s men a point further adrift.Two of the three title contenders tying at the after the final day of the Prem season on May 19 seems incredibly unlikely.But if we do get such a staggering conclusion, a list of head-to-head criteria come into play to decide who would lift the crown.Most read in FootballAnd if Arsenal were one of those two clubs, it would be good news for ONLY them.That’s because the Gunners have come out on top overall in their clashes with both Liverpool and City.In contrast, Arsenal’s two rivals are dead level with each other – having drawn their two Prem head-to-heads 1-1.Gabriel Martinelli gave the Gunners a late 1-0 win over City back in October, before Mikel Arteta’s men clung on for a stalemate on Sunday.Most read in FootballAnd against Liverpool this term, Arsenal drew 1-1 at Anfield and then won 3-1 at Emirates in February.It mean we could yet see the most astonishing one-off game in Prem history… if Liverpool and City share top spot come May.Stranger things than that have obviously happened – but surely NEVER in top-flight history.Here’s how it might happen…
    If Liverpool and City are level on points, goal difference is the next deciding factor.
    If GD was equal, whoever has scored most will decide it.
    If the two clubs are still locked level, the team with the most points in head-to-head Prem matches this season would finish higher.
    If still equal, the club scoring the higher number of away goals in those two games would finish higher.
    If, after all that, it remains level, we get that dramatic play-off at a neutral ground.
    Prem chiefs would need to decide the details, including date and venue.
    I’ve played for Arsenal and Man City but I switched careers in retirement and created a business selling BACKPACKS More

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    Shocking Man City stats emerge after drab goalless draw with Arsenal and it could cost them title

    MANCHESTER CITY fans will have some cause for concern after a shocking stat emerged.It comes in the wake of their lifeless 0-0 draw with Arsenal.City are trailing Liverpool and Arsenal in the title raceCredit: AFPWhile on paper it’s not the worst result, given they remain just one point off the Gunners and three points off Liverpool, it speaks to a bigger pattern across the season.The club are yet to win in games against the top five teams in the league this season.They lost to Arsenal away, before drawing at home, drew twice with Liverpool, lost away to Aston Villa and drew at home to Spurs.And to make matters worse, today’s 0-0 draw with Arsenal marks the first time the club haven’t scored at the Etihad in 57 matches.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLIn their remaining games against the top five, City will host Aston Villa on Wednesday, and still have to travel to the Tottenham Hotspur stadium before the season is up.While they beat Spurs away in the FA Cup in January, but are yet to winthere in the league since Spurs began playing at their new home in 2019.And Haaland’s failure to score today means he’s scored just four goals in nine league games since he returned in January.While still impressive, he’s a long way off his scintillating form of last year, which saw him score 53 goals.Most read in FootballHaaland was an isolated figure against ArsenalCredit: The Sun CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnd his performance today drew criticism from Roy Keane, who was not impressed with his hold up play.City’s draw with Arsenal leaves them three points off league leaders Liverpool.Man City star Kyle Walker names shock opponent who is toughest he has ever facedA tricky midweek fixture against Unai Emery’s Aston Villa will offer Guardiola the chance to bounce back as the title race continues to be split three ways.The club could still achieve a back to back treble, having reached the quarter-final of the Champions League, where they will play Real Madrid, and the semi-final of the Fa Cup, where they will play Chelsea. More

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    Arsenal ratings: Declan Rice comes out on top in battle with Rodri but Odegaard struggles to open up Man City

    DECLAN RICE was Arsenal’s gritty hero as they clung on for a 0-0 draw in Sunday’s tame top-three clash. The England midfielder again showed he is worth all his £105million summer fee by edging his duel with outstanding counterpart Rodri in midfield.Declan Rice kept opposite number Rodri quiet in midfieldCredit: RexRice’s midfield partner Martin Odegaard was not his usual creative selfCredit: GettyMeanwhile, Ben White again showed he could be a big miss for England as the Gunners stood firm in defence.But there were some question marks further forward for Mikel Arteta’s men, especially as playmaker Martin Odegaard was kept quiet.Here’s how Arsenal rated as they dug in for a point at the Etihad.David Raya – 6Had an incredibly quiet afternoon. Most read in FootballAnnoyed the home crowd in what they saw as time wasting and he was finally booked for doing so in the 79th minute. Ben White – 8Back after his short break in Dubai and looked as though it had done him some good – while some of the other players who had been on international duty looked tired.William Saliba – 7Rarely put a foot wrong. Some key blocks and tackles and held firm under the late pressure. Ex-Arsenal star Mesut Ozil shows off ‘phenomenal’ body transformation and bulging bicepsGabriel Magalhaes – 7Cracking battle with Erling Haaland and generally came out the winner. Class. Most read in FootballJakub Kiwior – 7Has featured at left-back during Arsenal’s decent recent run and was once again solid and did a good job against Bernardo Silva. Martin Odegaard – 6Not one of his greatest games as he struggled to open up City’s defence. Jorginho – 7Did OK in central midfield but was subbed as Arteta wanted a bit more energy. Declan Rice – 8Impressive for Arsenal and enjoyed his fascinating battle with City counterpart Rodri. He came out the better of the two. Bukayo Saka tangles with Kevin De Bruyne but was often crowded outCredit: APBukayo Saka – 6 Struggled to find much space in the first half but set up a great chance for Jesus before hobbling off injured.Kai Havertz – 5Had an early collision with keeper Ortega when he could have done a lot better. Had little service, though. 5Gabriel Jesus – 6The former City striker missed a golden chance at the start of the second half. Jeered by some City fans – and applauded by others- when subbed for Trossard. SubsTomiyasu (for Kiwior 66 mins) 6 Partey (for Jorginho 66 mins) 6 Trossard (for Jesus 72 mins) 6 Martinelli (for Saka 78 mins) 6 More

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    Arsenal star’s twerk queen Wag sends fans wild as she wears black leather cat mask and lingerie for raunchy demo

    ARSENAL fans have been left in awe after their so-called “twerk queen” struck again.Claudia Kowalczyk is the partner of Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior.Claudia dressed as a cat for the performanceCredit: InstagramThe footie wag competed in the Romanian twerk championshipsCredit: InstagramShe pulled out all the stops to winCredit: InstagramHer job title of “twerk queen” or twerk instructor went viral after the Polish footballer signed for the Gunners.Claudia boasts over 80,000 followers and regularly posts instructional videos on how to twerk.Her latest post saw her dressed as a cat as she vied to win the Romanian twerking championship.Arsenal fans were quick to comment in response to her latest dance routine.READ MORE TWERK QUEENOne fan said: “Wow😍😍😍”A second commented: “Gorgeous as usual 🔥”Another wrote: “🔥Wooow”She had something to prove on foreign territory, given she is the host of “Poland twerk champions”.Most read in FootballShe is the partner of Jakub KiwiorCredit: claudia.redheaded_babe/instagramThey recently visited MilanCredit: claudia.redheaded_babe/instagramShe regularly posts tutorials on her InstagramCredit: instagram/claudia.redheaded_babeThe organisation both teaches students and facilitates battles between rival dancers.It comes after Claudia and Jakub enjoyed a romantic mountainous getaway prior to the international break.Arsenal star Kiwior’s twerk queen Wag wiggles her famous bum on the beach as they enjoy holiday during winter breakIt came as Arsenal had a rare weekend off due to being knocked out of the FA Cup.In the pictures Claudia shared, the couple could be seen smiling and posing in front of a picturesque mountainous backdrop.Kiwior has made 16 Premier League appearances for Arsenal this season, scoring once.She has 80,000 followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram / @claudia.redheaded_babeKiwior is always present in her InstagramCredit: Instagram / @claudia.redheaded_babe More

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    Arsenal learn price of top transfer target Viktor Gyokeres as they get set to battle Chelsea for Sporting star

    ARSENAL’S top No9 transfer target Viktor Gyokeres is set to be sold this summer for £68million by Sporting Lisbon.The Gunners will have to battle it out with Chelsea for the in-form striker as both Premier League sides are desperate for a talisman.Sporting are set to sell Arsenal’s top transfer target Viktor Gyokeres for £68m this seasonCredit: AFPGyokeres has been in top form for Sporting since moving from Coventry last July in a £20million deal. The 25-year-old has scored 37 goals and 14 assists in 50 games for club and country this season and for Sporting alone he has tallied 22 goals in 24 games.This has sparked interest from Arsenal who have been on the hunt for a powerful striker this year and Chelsea who have also been analysing his performances closely this season.The Swedish international goals have helped Sporting take the top spot in the Portuguese league above local rivals Benfica who they defeated in the cup to line up a potential double this term.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLClub officials are expected to cash in on Gyokeres by demanding £68m this summer.AC Milan have also been linked with Gyokeres but the forward is thought to prefer a move to the Premier League after starting his career with Brighton in 2018.Arsenal have been set on finding a No9 after going a season without a designated striker.They have been keen on Brentford and England star Ivan Toney and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen for some time now.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERBut The Athletic reporter David Ornstein has confirmed that the Gunners are no longer targeting the pair as Arsenal are more interested in Gyokeres alongside Benjamin Sesko and Evan Ferguson.Ornstein said: “The likes of Sesko & Gyökeres are well thought of. As is Ferguson but the price Brighton would want & the season he has had so far perhaps makes him less likely at the moment. I snapped Arsenal legend Cesc Fabregas with worst tackle of my life – I had to get his number and apologise afterwards”I don’t see it being an Osimhen or Toney. There will be other options too.” More

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    Thomas Tuchel makes bold Arsenal claim moments after conceding ‘title is over’ as fans fume ‘what a loser’

    THOMAS TUCHEL admitted the Bundesliga title race is OVER – but still backs his Bayern Munich side to beat Arsenal in the Champions League. Bayern fell to a 2-0 home loss to Borussia Dortmund to leave Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen 13 points clear at the top of the table. Thomas Tuchel admitted the Bundesliga title race is overTuchel: ‘We are able to beat Arsenal even if today this is hard to believe. We have very different performances within a short period of time. Wouldn’t be the first time we bounce back with a crazy good performance’ [🎥 @archiert1, @ESPNFC]pic.twitter.com/qlVBRlzQSI— Bayern & Germany (@iMiaSanMia) March 31, 2024

    With just seven games left, Tuchel conceded the title early following the crushing defeat. Asked if the race is now over, he said: “Obviously, yes. “After today’s game there is no more need to count points. How many is it now? Congratulations to Leverkusen.“We are very disappointed because we felt we did not bring the necessary passion to win the game. READ MORE IN football “It was too little from us when it came to the basics.” Tuchel’s comments angered fans as one said: “What a loser.”Another added: “What a loser mentality.” With hope lost in the league, Bayern will now turn their attention to their quarter-final clash with Arsenal next month.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTuchel – who had several showdowns with the Gunners during his reign at Chelsea – is hopefully the Germans can turn their form around. He said: “That is not the first time that it happens to us and it’s not the first time we could bounce back with a crazy good performance. Xabi Alonso announces he will stay at Bayer Leverkusen after showdown talks with club”That is basically the hope. It’s a bit strange but that is actually it. If we are honest, we could not have to guarantee that if we perform today at highest level that we do this again at Heidenheim. “This is our point for many, many months. We struggle to find this consistency. So today we didn’t find and now we prepare for Heidenheim. “We are able to beat Arsenal even if today this is hard to believe. We have very different performances within a short period of time so this is not new to us.” More

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    My dad’s a Double-winner and my uncle won a Ballon d’Or, now I’m making my own way and eyeing shock non-league title

    HIS famous footballing father was a Double winner with Arsenal and will go down in history as the first African player to win the Premier League.His uncle is a former Ballon d’Or winner and two-time African Footballer of the Year who starred for Manchester City in the twilight of his career.Chris Wreh has carved his own way with Tamworth where he plays on loan from HartlepoolChris’ father Christopher Wreh won the Double with ArsenalCredit: PA:Press AssociationChris’ grandfather George Weah won the Ballon d’OrCredit: AFPWeah also used to play for Manchester City during his glory yearsCredit: AFPBut Chris Wreh – son of former Gunners striker Christopher Wreh and nephew of Liberian legend George Weah – has no time to worry about torn loyalties ahead of Sunday’s title showdown between City and Arsenal.That’s because he’s too busy closing in on a spectacular title success of his own.The 27-year-old Hartlepool United striker is currently on loan at National League North surprise packages Tamworth.And Andy Peaks’ high-flying Lambs can complete back-to-back promotions and clinch a shock promotion to the National League if they pick up a point at Brackley Town on Monday or Chorley fail to beat Blyth Spartans.Read More on FootballHowever, 26 years ago it was Chris’ dad Christopher who was closing in on the title as part of Arsene Wenger’s great 1997-98 Double-winners.Chris told SunSport: “I was only two when dad won the Double with Arsenal.”He’s not really one to talk about what he’s achieved, he was more interested in pushing me on to try and make a name for myself.”But lots of people have told me what a great player he was and I’ve watched some videos of him.Most read in Football”It’s pretty obvious he must have been talented to play in that Arsenal Double-winning team because he had to compete with Ian Wright, Dennis Bergkamp and Nicolas Anelka.Eight of the greatest players to never win the Ballon d’Or despite their incredible careers”One of his claims to fame is that Arsene Wenger signed him twice – first for Monaco and then Arsenal.”Wreh senior scored on his full debut in March 1998 – a 1-0 win at Wimbledon – as Arsenal put together a ten-match winning streak which saw them overhaul Manchester United to win the title.Wreh also scored a winner at Bolton before bagging his most famous Arsenal goal – the only goal of the game in a narrow FA Cup semi-final win over Wolves.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKER”Arsene Wenger rewarded him by starting dad in the FA Cup final against Newcastle United, which they won 2-0,” said Chris.”Ian Wright was on the bench that day which says a lot for dad.”They were quite close and he used to call Wrighty, grandad, or old man, while Ian Wright dubbed dad ‘The Liberian Lion King!'”Dad also scored against Manchester United at Wembley when Arsenal won the Charity Shield at the start of the following season.”I still stumble across some of his international shirts in the garage or scattered all over the house and his Premier League winners’ medal and Community Shield medal are at home too.”He’s even got a Best Goal Celebration Award and became famous for his backflip celebrations after scoring but I’ve never tried to recreate it.”Living with HenryAt the start of his second season at Highbury, Wenger increased the quality even further by signing Thierry Henry and Croatian legend Davor Suker.Despite making 18 appearances in the first half of the season Wreh was eventually loaned out to AEK Athens, Birmingham City and Dutch side Den Bosch, before moving to St Mirren and then Al-Hilal in the fledgling Saudi League.”Dad knew all about Thierry Henry’s quality long before he became a Gunners legend,” said Chris.”Because he used to share a flat together when they were teammates at Monaco.”To get in that Arsenal team ahead of some of those players was obviously a massive achievement and something my mum must have been so proud of.”It showed he had the talent, it’s staggering to think of the level he achieved.Wreh was ‘bigger’ in France”Speaking to Mum and other family members he was actually far bigger in France than he ever was here.”He achieved a lot in French football with Guingamp, where he played in the French Cup final and Monaco before his move to Arsenal.”He played with some world class players at Monaco and at 18 he came off the bench in the semi-final of the Champions League against AC Milan at the San Siro, playing alongside Jurgen Klinsmann, Youri Djorkaeff, Enzo Scifo and Emmanuel Petit.”He’s currently out in Liberia where he is in charge of the National Under-20 team and he Facetimed me the other day before their international for a chat.”We tend to keep it light – he’s just my dad really. But if I ask him for something specific he’ll give me advice.”It’s my ambition to play for Liberia one day.Chris’ Liberia ambitions”Dad scored 12 goals in 36 internationals and my uncle George Weah is Liberia’s most famous player.”There was a possibility of me being called up when I was with Southend but unfortunately I got injured before the squad was announced.”Hopefully if Tamworth win promotion I’ll have options in the National League with Hartlepool or to stay here.”We’re 13 points clear with four games to go but I came in February after the boys did all the hard work.”I’m just here to hopefully provide the icing on the cake. I’ve managed five goals and four assists in 14 appearances so things have gone well.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Tamworth fans might want to borrow the anthem Arsenal fans used to sing about his double-winning dad.All together now ….. “We’re riding along on the Christ-oph-er Wreh!” More