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    West Ham ‘AGREE transfer for Man Utd target Noussair Mazraoui but Red Devils still in race for Bayern Munich star’

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    WEST HAM have agreed a deal to sign Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich, according to reports.The clubs have agreed on a fee that could rise to £16.4million.West Ham have agreed a deal to sign MazraouiCredit: GettySky Sports Germany report that West Ham also have an agreement in principle with Mazraoui on personal terms.They say that financial details on terms of the deal still need to be agreed before the deal can be finalised.Manchester United’s interest in Mazraoui has been well reported.But they would need to sell Aaron Wan-Bissaka before they could bring in the Bayern right-back.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWest Ham were one of the teams linked with Wan-Bissaka but appear to have cut out the middle man and gone straight for United’s target.Sky Germany report that West Ham now lead Man Utd in the race for Mazraoui.Bayern signed Mazraoui from Ajax in 2022 on a four-year deal.He has played 55 times for the club in various positions – although he has largely been kept out of the team by Joshua Kimmich.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWest Ham have signed three players so far this summer.Wes Foderingham arrived from Sheffield United on a free transfer as well as Luis Guilherme on a £25m deal from Palmeiras.Check out the stats for the £59m midfielder Man Utd have agreed personal terms withMax Kilman also arrived from Wolves in a £40m transfer earlier this month. More

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      I ruined Harry Kane’s best chance to win a trophy yet, now I’m looking to do it again in the Euro 2024 final

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      DANI OLMO bagged a hat-trick to deny Harry Kane a trophy on his Bayern Munich debut — and is out to repeat the trick in Berlin.Kane was parachuted straight into the  German Supercup the day after he signed for Bayern, but Olmo’s heroics for RB Leipzig meant there was no dream start to a season which astonishingly ended without silverware.Dani Olmo says Spanish glory is more important than winning the Golden Boot after celebrating semi-final victory over FranceCredit: PAHarry Kane won’t want to be upstaged by Olmo again after England edged out the Netherlands to reach Sunday’s finalCredit: GettyLamine Yamal and Nico Williams revelled in Spain’s comeback win over the French, along with Golden Boot contenders Fabian Ruiz and Alvaro MorataCredit: RexThe Spain midfielder has the chance to continue Kane’s trophy curse in Sunday’s final and beat him to the Golden Boot.His aim now is to end the campaign exactly how he started it.Asked whether the idea was to bag another hat-trick to deny England skipper Kane the title, 26-year-old Olmo said: “A lot!“It would be a dream to score a hat-trick in the final — and win it, of course. I would be happy if I could help the team with a goal but the main objective is to win.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThere are plenty of positive memories at Berlin’s Olympiastadion for Kane’s nemesis, too, coming off the bench against Hertha Berlin two years ago with a goal and assist in a 6-1 win for Leipzig.Now, as Spain head there for the final, striker Kane, 30, and Olmo both sit on three  tournament goals.If neither of them score in Berlin the award will be split between six players . . . a stud each?Olmo added: “I felt very good at the Euros, Harry Kane and I are tied, but if Fabian Ruiz scores — who has two — and even Alvaro Morata scores a hat-trick, then we are there. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSKane made his Bayern debut as a sub in the German Supercup last August but Olmo won it for RB Leipzig with a hat-trickCredit: PA”We would be just as happy whoever does it.”It was not in the plan for the Spanish  playmaker to have such an impact at this Euros.Meet Euro 2024 final ref who SLAPPED HaalandMeet Spain’s Euro 2024 WagsSpain Wags range from teenager sweethearts to recently blossoming love stories.Alice Campello (Alvaro Morata’s wife)Alice Campello is an Italian model and fashion designer and has been married to Alvaro Morata since 2017. The pair has four children together.Sara Botello (Aymeric Laporte’s wife)Sara Botello is a trained dancer, having performed ballet and contemporary dance in shows around Spain. She married Aymeric Laporte in 2023 and the pair have two children together.Tatiana Trouboul (David Raya’s girlfriend)Tatiana Trouboul is the girlfriend of David Raya. Before moving to London with him, she worked in a nightclub. Now she is working as a model.Claudia Rodriguez (Marc Cucurella’s girlfriend)Claudia and Marc met in Barcelona after he messaged her on Instagram. The pair has third children together and have been together since six years.Lola Liberal ( Mikel Merino’s wife)Lola Liberal is a blogger and loves to share loving moments with ex-Newcastle star Mikel Merino. The pair married in January 2024.Laura Cascante (Rodrigo Hernández’s girlfriend)Laura Iglesias is a medical student and is training to become a surgeon. The pair met during university.Laura Abla Schmitt (Dani Olmo’s girlfriend)Laura Abla Schmitt and Dani Olmo made their relationship public on New Year’s Day in 2024. Read more about the Wags supporting Spain at Euro 2024 hereThe man who won an Olympic silver medal at the last Games has started just two matches but has three goals — including a fabulous winner in the semi-final against France — and two assists.Olmo started on the fringes of the squad but following injury to Barcelona’s Pedri in the quarter-final with the hosts, he was thrown on, scored and has not looked back.In a Spain side which is very different from the dominant tiki-taka team of 2008-12, Olmo is perhaps the one who stands out most.There are few occasions on which he opts for a short, cute pass — despite starting his career in Barca’s famed La Masia academy.Olmo takes everything on the half-turn and loves to drive with the ball at his feet but also has the finesse of all the finest Spanish players — as evidenced by his wonderful goal against Les Bleus.Olmo collected a tricky loose ball with one flick in the air, another to move past Aurelien Tchouameni and fired across goal to score via a Jules Kounde deflection.It is not just on the pitch that the tricky midfielder is brave, either.At just 16 years old, Olmo took the decision to do something very few young Spanish  players do and leave his home country.Opting to take an even more unique path, he joined Dinamo Zagreb in Croatia and  went on to win nine trophies, including five league titles.Throughout his time in Croatia, Olmo was progressing through the Spanish youth set-up, from the Under-16s up to the U-21s, with whom he won the European Championship under current La Roja boss Luis de la Fuente, scoring in both the semis and final.A move to RB Leipzig in Germany followed in 2020, with another switch expected after this tournament — when he could become Kane’s team-mate.England stars Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Luke Shaw and Declan Rice hope they have even bigger smiles after Sunday’s showpieceCredit: GettyYou can say it hasn’t been pretty, but England are in the final… and we’re peaking at just the right time, says Jack WilshereAFTER what has been a tough tournament of times, what an opportunity Gareth Southgate and his team will have to end in the best possible way, writes Jack Wilshere.We might like a team that played better football. But it’s a results business.Germany, Italy, France, Portugal and of course Holland would love to be where we are.People will say we’re lucky because we’re on this side of the draw.But we won the group. France didn’t and then ran into Spain.You can say it wasn’t that pretty, but we’re there.Gareth and his coaches won’t have been happy with some of the performances.But I did like the way Gareth and his team have dealt with it.There was no panic coming out of the camp.Everyone gave the same message: ‘We know we can better, but we’re here still.’And on Sunday they will be in Berlin to play Spain.They will probably have to produce two halves of football as good as the first against Holland to beat them.We have improved as the tournament has gone on and that is how you win things.You want to peak in the final.If Gareth can lead England to that major trophy we’ve all been waiting for, it will be the perfect answer to the critics and a brilliant day for us all.Read Jack Wilshere’s England vs Holland verdict in full.Or check out all of SunSport columnist Jack’s Euros 2024 opinions…Bayern Munich is his most likely destination after a £55million release clause in his contract was extended to next Saturday thanks to Spain reaching the final.Manchester United and Manchester City have both monitored Olmo but Bavaria appears to be calling his name.Asked about his future, the midfielder said: “I have too much to do with the Euros to be thinking about other things and, now with the final ahead, it is not something that I have on my mind.”Victory tomorrow night could make for an awkward chat with Kane should the two join up for pre-season together with new boss   Vincent Kompany’s Bayern.But while Spain have been lauded for their fine football — and beaten all of Croatia, Italy, Germany and France to reach the final — Olmo is wary of the threat the Three Lions pose.He added: “Like Morata in our national team, Jude Bellingham is also a reference point there.“Football passes through his boots, both with him and with Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka, who form that trident with Harry Kane up front.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Bellingham is always there in the middle of the matter.“They are players to be taken into account but we are not afraid of anyone.”England football stars’ tattoosThe England squad are known for their love of body art and a lot of them are covered in tattoos. More

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      ‘I’ll have to talk to my agent’ says Harry Kane as England star offered transfer from Bayern during press conference

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      HARRY KANE joked he will speak to his agent after being offered unlimited SAUSAGE and free drinks if he signs for a seventh-tier German team.The England skipper, 30, was quizzed by the media ahead of the Three Lions’ final Euro 2024 Group C game against Slovenia on Tuesday.Harry Kane was jokingly offered a shock transfer away from Bayern MunichCredit: GettyThe England skipper signed the shirt of seventh-tier SG Lauscha/NeuhausCredit: APHe opted against putting pen to paper on a deal at the German minnowsKane had to respond to questions about his own role in the team, England’s abject performances so far – and even hit back at Gary Lineker’s “s***” comment. But he let out a big smile when he was asked about leaving Bayern Munich – to join minnows SG Lauscha/Neuhaus, based near England’s plush Weimarer Land spa and golf resort in Blankenhain.Local comedian Jonas Greiner, representing broadcaster MDR Jump, asked the striker about his views on the area, before changing gears and offering him the chance to extend his stay in the region.And he even had SG Lauscha/Neuhaus’ fluorescent yellow shirt ready in case Kane accepted the plucky offer. READ MORE ON EURO 2024Greiner said: “Could you imagine living here one day? Do you want to stay? We have a seventh-division team you may have heard of, SG Lauscha/Neuhaus.”They have a contract offer for you. You get free Thuringia rostbratwurst all you can eat, free drinks in every bar, and mindestlohn (minimum wage).”You will have much more time for the national team. If you want, I have your jersey here.”Kane joined in the laughter in the press room – before playing along with the joke. Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSThe ex-Tottenham striker replied: “It’s very well prepared. I’ll have to talk to my agent and see what we can do!”But you have good golf courses. I mean the golf course we’re staying on is fantastic so it’s not a bad plus.SunSport’s Euro 2024 headlines EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYTalk of dropping Harry Kane is absurd, says Jurgen Klinsmann
      NO manager in the world will really care about how many touches their centre-forward has, writes Jurgen Klinsmann.
      It’s being widely flagged up that Harry Kane has not seen much of the ball in England’s first two matches but this is not, in itself, going to be a concern for Gareth Southgate.
      It’s a nice thing for the stats fanatics to go on about — and there are obviously more and more of them in and around football.
      But not all statistics are helpful and this one doesn’t mean a great deal.
      Harry has scored one goal, and so nearly two, in two games. It’s not as if he hasn’t been involved at all.
      Everybody in England needs to calm down a little about the captain.
      Some are even suggesting that he should be dropped or rested for tomorrow’s final group game against Slovenia — but that is totally absurd.
      Please stop worrying. He will come good. He always does.
      Read Jurgen Klinsmann thoughts on Harry Kane’s struggles in full.
      Or check out all of Jurgen’s Euro 2024 columns.

      “It’s been great. You know the reception I’ve had not just here but in the whole of Germany has been incredible. I think since I moved to Bayern Munich I’ve added a lot of supporters to me.”Every hotel we’ve been to so far and just around the stadium and everything, the support has been amazing, so I just want to say thank you for that.”I don’t know if it’s on my mind to move here one day, but we appreciate you guys hosting us.”And although he refused to sign the contract, Kane did autograph the Lauscha/Neuhaus shirt at the end of the press conference.But Greiner joked his local side had enjoyed a more successful season than Bundesliga giants Bayern last term. Greiner told the PA news agency: “He could be good in the team. We don’t have a Jude Bellingham but we have many players who can drink on one day and on the next day they play.Jack Wilshere: Southgate must be brave with RiceBy Jack Wilshere
      GARETH SOUTHGATE should be brave and play Declan Rice as our sole holding midfielder.
      But if England manager Southgate doesn’t want to do that — and he probably doesn’t ­— then he needs to give Rice the chance to play more like he does for Arsenal.
      Let’s be absolutely clear here. Rice was so important for us again during that first half against Denmark.
      The fact that he had a difficult second 45 minutes showed how much England were struggling.
      Rice himself would hold his hands up and say he gave away the ball too often.
      But what I took overall from his performance is that he needs more help in the engine room.
      Read here how Jack Wilshere would resolve the Declan Rice dilemma.

      “They hit the ball even if they drank like 15 beers the day before and I guess that’s high-level pressure they can deal with.”It would be a great match with a professional player who can score the goals so that the other players can drink like 17 beers the day before.”They were promoted this year so it’s another benefit for Harry Kane – more titles than Bayern Munich this year!”Away from the fun and games, Kane had some strong words to hit back at the pundits criticising England so far at the tournament. Lineker and Alan Shearer were among the strongest in voicing their concerns – with the current No9 coming in for particular negative press.But the captain was quick to point out that no England men’s team have lifted a major trophy since 1966 – and the support would be much appreciated.’We’re struggling with and without the ball’, admits Harry Kane
      HARRY KANE admits England “haven’t been good enough” at the Euros.
      Here’s what skipper Kane said after the disappointing 1-1 draw with Denmark:
      “We’re struggling with and without the ball.
      “The pressing in both games hasn’t been quite right. We haven’t been good enough, from top to bottom, from me to Picks (Jordan Pickford).
      “Everyone is dropping below their level a bit, in terms of retaining the ball, playing under pressure.
      “We know there’ll be a bit of noise and disappointment back home.
      “But it’s a time to stay calm and we’ll get there step by step.
      “It wasn’t our greatest game but we got away with draw.
      “We are starting games well. But when the teams are dropping a few players deeper we are not quite sure how to get the pressure on, and who is the one who is supposed to be going.”
      “In the second half, we changed it with me and Jude (Bellingham)  playing in front of their two midfielders. But it was difficult.”

      Kane said: “I’d never want to be disrespectful to any player, especially a player that’s worn the shirt and knows what it’s like to play for England.”What maybe ex-players who are pundits now have got to realise, it’s very hard not to listen to it now, especially for young players who are not used to it or some players are new to the environment.”I know they’ve got to be honest and have their opinion but they have a responsibility as an ex-England player that a lot of players looked up to, people do care about what they say and do listen to them.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Everyone has got their opinion, but the bottom line is we haven’t won nothing as a nation for a long, long time and a lot of these players were part of that, and they know how tough it is.”It’s not digging anyone out, but it’s just the reality that they do know it’s tough to play in these major tournaments and tough to play for England.”Comedian Jonas Greiner is on a bid to sign a big-name player for SG Lauscha/NeuhausCredit: PAWho is Euro 2024’s sexiest star?
      EURO 2024 has something for everyone from stunning goals, thrilling matches… and the continent’s biggest hunks, writes Jack Figg.
      Several stars have lit up the group stages with their skills on the pitch – but others are also catching the eye for their looks.
      But who is the sexiest?
      Thankfully AI boffins have carried out an analysis on the facial attractiveness of all players at the tournament.
      And it’s bad news for Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions who are the fourth UGLIEST in the competition – one place below Scotland.
      In fact it’s England’s group rivals Serbia who have fans swooning the most – boasting an average score of 77.90/100 with defender Strahinja Pavlovic deemed their most attractive.
      While Turkey defender Mert Muldur has been ranked as the tournament’s BEST-LOOKING player.
      But who is England’s sexiest star, and who makes the Euros’ hunkiest XI? Read our full story. More

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      Pep Guardiola opens door to shock return for Joao Cancelo after 17 MONTHS if transfer can’t be agreed

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      PEP GUARDIOLA has stunningly opened the door for Joao Cancelo to return to Manchester City.The Portuguese defender, 30, left the Etihad on loan last January – joining German giants Bayern Munich – following a reported row with his gaffer.Joao Cancelo spent the second half of the 2022/23 season on loan at Bayern MunichCredit: GETTYThe Portugal star spent the 2023/24 season out on loan with BarcelonaCredit: GETTYPep Guardiola has opened the door for the 30-year-old to return to Manchester CityCredit: GETTYHe returned to Eastlands last summer for pre-season but was sent out on another loan to Barcelona.Barca are keen to retain his services, which Guardiola has suggested he himself will have no problem utilising should a deal fail to come to fruition.The 53-year-old said: “It has to be the best for everyone. The two clubs will sit down.”He is our player and, if an agreement is not reached, he will have to return in the pre-season.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”If he wants to stay here [at Barcelona], and the clubs agree, it will be done again.”Suggestions his back-to-back loan spells were the result of an explosive bust-up with Guardiola enraged Cancelo, who told ABola: “Lies were told!”I’ve never been a bad teammate for them and you can ask either [Nathan] Ake or Rico [Lewis].”I don’t have any superiority or inferiority complex towards them, but that’s the manager’s opinion.”Most read in SportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Portugal international added: “I was [saddened] because it wasn’t true.”I think Man City were a bit ungrateful to me when they said that, because I was a very important player in the years I was there.Fans fear Joao Cancelo has been ‘possessed’ after ‘terrifying’ interview of Barcelona star emerges – laliga”I never failed in my commitment to the club, to the fans and I always gave everything.”I remember a time when I was robbed and attacked and the next day I was playing at the Emirates against Arsenal.”These are things you don’t forget, I left my wife and my daughter alone at home, terrified.”People will only remember this because Mister Guardiola has much more strength than me when he says something and I prefer to keep to myself.”I prefer to know that I am telling the truth, I feel fulfilled with what I did. “I am a transparent person, I never lie.” More

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      Vincent Kompany ‘makes six Bayern Munich stars available for transfer’ including £68million defender in brutal clearout

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      VINCENT KOMPANY is willing to release SIX big name Bayern Munich stars, including Manchester United target Matthijs de Ligt.The Manchester City legend is enjoying a fresh start leading Bayern after leaving relegated Burnley in a £10million deal.New Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has put SIX big names on the chopping blockCredit: AlamyDefender Matthijs de Ligt is among the six players namedCredit: GettyThe Bundesliga giants identified Kompany as the man to take them forwards after a dismal campaign, that saw them finish third in the table.And the Belgian has begun his shock appointment by brutally putting his foot down with a proposed mass exodus.According to Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg six big name players are “allowed to leave” if the club receive suitable offers this summer.Bayern are inviting offers for forward Serge Gnabry and French winger Kingsley Coman, whose contract ends in 2027.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSMidfielders Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich, and defenders Noussair Mazraoui and De Ligt are also deemed sellable assets.De Ligt has been on Manchester United’s radar for quite some time.The Dutchman only joined Bayern two years ago from Juventus for around £68million.But now the Old Trafford interest could be reignited after Raphael Varane left the club.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSGerman midfielder Kimmich attracted interest from Arsenal earlier in the year, who are likely to offload Thomas Partey.In an effort to properly compete for the Bundesliga next year, Bayern are said to be planning a busy summer transfer window.Harry Kane pictured training with Bayern days after 3 of his kids were saved by hero nanny in three-car smashKompany’s main task will be to restore their place as Germany’s No1 club after Bayern’s 11-season title streak was ended by Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen.Along with adding new players to the squad, Bayern also want to trim their wage bill, with Coman currently taking home £273,000 a week.Crystal Palace ace and Euro midfielder Adam Wharton is on Kompany’s shopping list, as is Manchester City’s Jack Grealish.Fulham are likely to receive a fresh approach from Bayern to sign midfielder Joao Palhinha. More

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      You’ve been saying Vincent Kompany’s name all wrong as new Bayern Munich boss reveals correct pronunciation

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      VINCENT KOMPANY has revealed that people have been pronouncing his name wrong for years.The Belgian, 38, was speaking after being unveiled as the new Bayern Munich manager.Vincent Kompany told the press we have been saying his name wrong all these yearsCredit: AlamyThe former Burnley gaffer said his first name should be pronounced “Van-sont” with a soft “t” at the end of his name.But he revealed that his days as a player in Germany for Hamburg saw his first name become “Vincent” or “Vinny” in the way that Brits would say it.A post on Bayern’s Tiktok saw the manager say: “So my name is actually pronounced ‘Van-sont’. But I played in Hamburg for two years.”And it never worked because it is hard to pronounce for Germans I guess. That’s why ‘Vincent’ or ‘Vinny’ is totally fine.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLKompany played for Hamburg from 2006 until 2008 when he joined Manchester City.He spent 11 years at the club, captaining them and becoming a club legend.He racked up four Premier League titles, two FA Cups and four league cups during his time at the Cityzens.He left to join Anderlecht in 2019, and would go on to become their manager soon after.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSKompany left the Belgian side in 2022 to join Burnley, and got them promoted to the Premier League at the first time of asking.But his time in the Premier League with the Clarets was less fruitful, with Burnley being relegated with just 24 points.How to do Germany on a budget for Euro 2024He has now been appointed as Bayern manager, after the club failed in their attempts to convince Thomas Tuchel to stay, to re-appoint Julian Nagelsmann, and appoint Ralf Rangnick.They also reportedly failed in an attempt to re-appoint former coach Hansi Flick, who is now the manager of Barcelona.Kompany has a contract with Bayern that will run until 2027. More

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      Bayern Munich reach agreement with Burnley over compensation for Vincent Kompany after fans stunned by reported amount

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      BAYERN MUNICH have agreed to a deal to take Vincent Kompany away from Burnley.The Bundesliga giants identified the Belgian as the man to take them forwards after a dismal campaign.Burnley manager Vincent Kompany is a wanted manCredit: PABayern Munich endured a shocking seasonCredit: GettySky Sports News claim that Burnley initially demanded £17million for their manager, who has agreed a deal in principle to move to Germany.But the Clarets are believed to have settled for a fee of between £10m and £12m.Fans could not believe the huge sum Burnley were supposedly requesting for Thomas Tuchel’s potential replacement.One replied to the news: “I cant believe Bayern are considering this fraud.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnother simply said: “Wow…””£17m for a manager. The worlds gone mental,” added another.A fourth suggested: “Hold out for as much as we can get Bayern aren’t short of the money.”Kompany, 38, has identified Manchester City trickster Jack Grealish as his top target.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe former City star is believed to be a huge fan of the England international.Grealish has fallen down the pecking order at City and could see the switch as a chance to boost his playing time.Best ten new Premier League kits for next seasonHe would link up with England team-mate Harry Kane in a formidable quartet also featuring Jamal Musiala and Leroy Sane.Bayern failed to win a single trophy in Kane’s first season – a rare flop for a club of their stature.And their new manager will be under immediate pressure to usurp Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen as the kings of German football.Kompany earned rave reviews for Burnley’s performances in winning promotion to the Premier League.But he managed just 24 points in 38 games as the Clarets tumbled back into the second tier.Vincent Kompany’s careerVincent Kompany enjoyed a successful playing career before becoming a manager.
      Playing Career:
      Anderlecht

      Appearances: 121
      Goals: 7
      Honours: Belgian First Division x2

      Hamburg

      Appearances: 51
      Goals: 4
      Honours: Uefa Intertoto Cup, 2007

      Manchester City

      Appearances: 360
      Goals: 20
      Honours: Premier League x4, FA Cup x2, EFL Cup x4

      Belgium

      Caps: 89
      Goals: 4

      Managerial career:
      Anderlecht

      Games: 90
      PPG: 1.70

      Burnley

      Games: 96
      PPG: 1.53
      Honours: Championship, 2023 More

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      Adam Wharton could have been rocket scientist but now he’s England’s rising star worth £60m wanted by Bayern Munich

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      YOUNG English star Adam Wharton has been a sensation since joining the Eagles from Blackburn for just £18million in January.His progress since then has been so spectacular that German giants Bayern Munich are planning to spend £60million signing him this summer.Adam Wharton in action against Wolves on SaturdayCredit: PAPalace youngster Adam Wharton has put in a string on strong performancesCredit: GettySo what’s all the fuss about, for a player who was in the Championship just a few months ago?Palace, then under Roy Hodgson, were desperate for an injection of life in midfield but there were concerns over paying a large fee for such a young player.But the South Londoners, under director of football Dougie Freedman, have a fine record of recruiting from the Championship, and Wharton, 20, is another gem.Those who know Wharton say he is never phased by taking the next step – making his start to life in the Premier League the norm for an exceptionally talented young player.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDarragh Tuffy, who coached Wharton as a youth player at Blackburn, told SunSport: “All through his age groups he had this weird ability to never be phased by anything.”I watch him in the Premier League now and he is playing passes that he used to do in training.”He doesn’t get phased by pressure, you just can’t teach that.”He looks like he is in total control of what he is doing, takes the ball under pressure and looks like the calmest man on the pitch.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWharton’s creative ability in midfield and eye for a pass has blown Palace fans, as well as Hodgson and then new boss Oliver Glasner away.Past coaches say it is a natural trait, something which stood out before he was even ten, and a side of his game which was needed as one of the smallest players on the pitch as a kid.Tuffy added: “He was always the smallest player in his age group coming through, a real late developer physically.Young stars set to shine at Euro 2024″In games that was never a problem for him.”He was always able to stand out with his technical attributes which he still does now. He didn’t hit his growth spurt until 17.”We knew he was going to come through that and as long as he carried on doing what he was good at we were going to have a really good footballer on our hands.”Wharton’s older brother, Scott, still plays for Blackburn and was a towering player in the academy which, along with maturation tests which predict a player’s eventual height, gave coaches the confidence the smallest lad on the pitch would grow into something special.Adam Wharton’s breakthrough season at PalaceBeing small early on helped mould a technically gifted player.Wharton’s nonchalant style had teachers at Moorland, the private school where Blackburn send players, comparing him to Glenn Hoddle and Chris Waddle – before he earned the nickname “Messi”.Charlie Jackson, who taught Wharton at Moorland having previously worked with United star Scott McTominay, told SunSport: “All our sessions were pass and move and he’d jump all over them, it was meat and drink for him.”He creates but sees the game, it’s like he has a crystal ball.”When I played him for school, you wouldn’t see him for 20 minutes in the game – he’d just go missing – and then all of a sudden you’d see a pass which is Maradona-esque.Adam Wharton, circled, was an outstanding prospect from a young ageCredit: Charlie Jackson/Moorland SchoolAdam Wharton, circled, during his time at Moorland SchoolCredit: Charlie Jackson/Moorland SchoolWharton’s former coach Charlie JacksonCredit: Charlie Jackson/Moorland SchoolMoorland School teachers realised Adam Wharton, circled, was a star in the makingCredit: Charlie Jackson/Moorland SchoolAdam Wharton caught the eye playing for BlackburnCredit: GettyWharton celebrates scoring for Blackburn against Birmingham in October 2022Credit: GettyAdam Wharton playing for England under 19sCredit: GettyAdam Wharton signs for BlackburnCredit: instagram @adamwharton10″Then he’s on it again and gets man of the match.”They were traits which caught Palace’s eye early on.Freedman even started scouting the boyhood Blackburn fan, who joined the club at Under-six level, before he had made his senior debut – a game in which he won man of the match.That effort and interest was not lost on Wharton and his representatives when it came to making a move in January, with Chelsea having also been keen.The move to the capital from sleepy Lancashire is a big one, especially with Wharton living in the thick of it not far from central London.But the England Under-21 has always been bright and intelligent, able to adapt to anything.Jackson added: “Oh, he didn’t even have to revise for GCSEs.”I use him as an example to the GCSE boys. He was an all-rounder with his head screwed on.”Adam could turn himself into anything.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He lived near British Aerospace with his parents and I used to say he could be a rocket scientist and work there, that is how bright he was.”The world of rocket science may have lost a potential star – but Crystal Palace, and one day Bayern Munich, have certainly bagged one.Adam Wharton has become a fan favourite at PalaceCredit: Rex More

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      Fans say Harry Kane is ‘officially cursed’ as Bayern Munich end season trophyless for first time in 12 YEARS

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      FANS have declared that Harry Kane is “officially cursed” after Bayern Munich ended their season trophyless for the first time in 12 YEARS.England captain Kane joined the German giants last summer in a £104million transfer from Tottenham.Fans have declared the Harry Kane ‘curse’ is realCredit: GettyHowever, despite Kane having another impressive individual season which has seen him score 44 goals and add 12 assists in all competitions, he has still been unable to end his trophyless run.Kane, 30, tasted defeat in his first game for the Bavarians as they lost to RB Leipzig in the DFL-Supercup.There was more woe for the team in the DFB-Pokal in November as Bayern were stunned by third-division minnows Saarbrücken – who went on to make the semi-final.Since then Bayer Leverkusen, who had previously never won the Bundesliga, claimed the title with matches to spare.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd that came despite one of Kane’s team-mates, Kingsley Coman, previously having his own omen of winning the league title every year since 2013 with Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus and Bayern.That left the Champions League as the last chance for Kane to get his hands on some silverware. A penalty from Kane in the first leg helped Bayern to a 2-2 draw against Real Madrid.The second leg saw Kane and Co under the cosh for some time before Alphonso Davies lashed home an opener for the Gemans in the 68th minute after a brilliant over the top pass from Kane to assist him.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHowever, just two minutes from the end of regulation time and after Kane had been subbed off, Manuel Neuer – who had otherwise been superb across both legs – spilled an easy shot from Vinicius Jr.This allowed super sub Joselu to poke home an equaliser. Watch Antonio Rudiger bring back iconic Chelsea chair celebration in wild scenes after Real Madrid win vs Bayern MunichThen three minutes later the Stoke and Newcastle flop was at it again as he expertly tapped home an Antonio Rudiger cross to send Los Blancos through to the Champions League final at Wembley.During his time at Spurs and with the Three Lions Kane – whose heartbreaking reaction to Real’s goal was caught on camera – has had some near misses.This has included missing out on the Premier League title to Leicester in 2015/16, losing the Champions League in 2019 to Liverpool following a controversial penalty call and losing the Euro 2020 final in the shootout to Italy.Fans could not help but highlight Kane’s so-called “curse” after his elimination confirmed another year without silverware for him.One fan shared a picture of Kane and said: “Bayern Munich are going to go without a trophy for the first time since 2011/12. This man is officially cursed.”A second said: “He is not cursed he IS the curse.”Another said: “Harry Kane tax.”A fourth said: “The Kane curse is so real now.. it’s no longer a joke.. what will he have to do to win a trophy?? I feel bad for him.”Bayern’s 12 year trophy haulHere’s the trophies Bayern Munich have won in every season since their last year barren season in 2011/12.
      2012/13: Bundesliga, German Super Cup, DFB-Pokal, Champions League
      2013/14: Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, Club World Cup, Uefa Super Cup
      2014/15: Bundesliga
      2015/16: Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal
      2016/17: Bundesliga, German Super Cup
      2017/18: Bundesliga, German Super Cup
      2018/19: Bundesliga, German Super Cup
      2019/20: Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, Champions League
      2020/21: Bundesliga, German Super Cup, Club World Cup, Uefa Super Cup
      2021/22: Bundesliga, German Super Cup
      2022/23: Bundesliga, German Super Cup

      A fifth added: “It’s real. It’s damn real.”Kane and co felt they should have had the opportunity to play extra time after Matthijs de Ligt shot the ball into the net in the 12th minute of injury time after an INCORRECT offside call that would have been overturned by VAR.However, since the whistle had already gone before the shot had happened, the referee could not bring the play back to allow the goal.Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel – who fans joked had passed his Manchester United audition amid reports of him going to Old Trafford – described the call as a “disaster” that was “against the rules”.Dutchman De Ligt claimed in his post-match interview the linesman had apologised for “making a mistake”He told beIN Sports: “”This is a shame. The linesman said to me ‘I’m sorry I made a mistake’.”In the end, I’m not the type of person who wants to blame the loss or win on the referee so Madrid deserves to win because they won 2-1.”But I think, if it’s a rule, it’s a rule and that’s the only thing I can say about it.”READ MORE SUN STORIESOn the upside, if Bayern Munich’s last trophyless season is anything to go by, Kane could well be in for a trophy glut next season.And some England fans believe his curse could end at the Euros, joking: “He will get his trophy this summer, it’s coming home.”This one will have stung Kane the most… what’s the German for schadenfreude?, says Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
      OF all the trophies Harry Kane has missed out on, the Bundesliga will have stung the most.
      This was supposed to have been a dead cert. This was nailed-on.
      Bayern Munich had won 11 successive Bundesliga titles, so when the England captain signed for the great Bavarian powerhouse last summer, we all said: “Well, at least he’ll finally win something.”
      Yet on Sunday evening, there were Bayer Leverkusen — known in Germany as ‘Neverkusen’ because they hadn’t previously won the league thanks to several late implosions — cavorting around, 16 points clear, unbeaten in all competitions and confirmed as champions with five games to spare.
      And so the greatest trophy curse in footballing history continues.
      And this one really is freakish because Leverkusen’s story is almost as extraordinary as Leicester City’s miracle title in 2015-16 — the season when Kane won his first Premier League Golden Boot and Tottenham ended up ‘third in a two-horse race’ behind Arsenal.
      Kane is always the runner-up, always the nearly man, always the fall guy, too often a figure of fun for those taking pleasure in the misfortune of others.
      Does anyone know the German word for schadenfreude…?
      Read Dave Kidd’s column in full.
      Or read more from Dave Kidd. More