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    Rashford has perfect chance to complete career turnaround against team that saw him go down in Champions League history

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    A SMILE is back on Marcus Rashford’s face.The goals are back, too. As is his place in the England team.The smile is back on Marcus Rashford’s face and he has the chance to prove the best is yet to come at Aston VillaCredit: GettyIt is six years since he completed the greatest two-legged comeback in Champions League history against PSG for Man UtdCredit: EPABut now it comes down to Rashford himself.To show that this is a genuine renaissance of a player with half a career left to go — and not just  a fleeting false dawn.And the looming showdown with a Paris Saint-Germain side that sent Liverpool out of the Champions League last month is the perfect stage for Rashford to demonstrate the best could be yet to come.It was, astonishingly, more than six years since Rashford converted the controversial stoppage-time penalty at the Parc des Princes that completed arguably the greatest two-legged comeback in the history of the competition.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn the 33 years since the European Cup was rebranded, 54 clubs have lost the home first leg by two or more goals.Only one, Manchester United against PSG in 2019, have turned the tie around to go through —  a 2-0 home loss followed by a 3-1 win to triumph on away goals.And that under a caretaker boss in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, with a team including Andreas Pereira and Scott McTominay and a bench  featuring Tahith Chong, an 18-year-old Mason Greenwood and Angel Gomes, who left the club having never started a Prem game.Back then, smashing his spot-kick past the dive of Gianluigi Buffon to stun the home fans before celebrating in front of the travelling United supporters, Rashford seemed assured of legend status at Old Trafford.Most read in FootballA fixture for club and country, a genuine local hero.Fast forward to now and Rashford will be wearing the claret and blue of Aston Villa rather than United red when he takes on the current incarnation of PSG.Moment Marcus Rashford’s £700k Rolls-Royce is towed off motorway after tyre blew outThat he seems to be enjoying his football again is clear.The 27-year-old has the trust of Villa boss Unai Emery — something he clearly had lost under Old Trafford chiefs Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim.Villa supporters have taken to him, too. They love his endeavour and desire.His willingness to do the hard yards but also take risks in the right areas.England chief Thomas Tuchel appears to feel he can utilise this version of Rashford, starting him against both Albania and Latvia.He may not have lit up Wembley but it was a return to the  international scene after a year, following his omission from Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad. A big step back.Rashford was grinning from ear to ear as he walked back across the Deepdale pitch on Sunday, clutching his man-of-the-match trophy after ending his 120-day goal drought with an FA Cup double against Preston.The first was a nonchalant finish, pulling off into space to steer home with conviction and ease, while his penalty second was stroked in with similar certainty.Plenty of United supporters will be asking where that version of Rashford had been for the previous 18 months.What he wants to do next is down to him.He could turn the Villa loan into a permanent move, potentially make himself a summer target for Europe’s elite clubs, or even choose to put Amorim under the spotlight at Old Trafford.The Portuguese might have been slightly disingenuous saying he was “happy when our players are playing well on loan”, although a  successful finish to Rashford’s spell at Villa Park could add to his sale price if there is no way back.Remarkably, the forward’s last Champions League goal was 3½ years ago, the first as United came from two-down to beat Atalanta 3-2 at Old Trafford.There could be no better time for him to end that statistic than back in Paris next week. Seizing the moment. Seizing the day.Read More on The SunVilla would benefit. So would England. But most of all, Rashford himself.Go out and show us, Marcus. More

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      I had talks to leave Man Utd and play in Spain – you can’t question Alexander-Arnold’s Real Madrid transfer, says Rooney

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      WAYNE ROONEY has told Trent Alexander-Arnold: Spain would be a good move for you.England full-back TAA’s Liverpool contract is up this summer with the 26-year-old set to leave Anfield for Real Madrid.Wayne Rooney has revealed he almost left Man Utd to play in SpainCredit: GettyLiverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold looks set to leave the club to join Real MadridCredit: GettyAnd Rooney revealed he was also once tempted to make a similar switch.The ex-England captain and Manchester United forward told BBC Sport: “Because it is Real, I don’t think you could question it as a career move.”Real are the biggest club in the world.“It would be a massive opportunity and I’d understand if he felt it was too good to turn down. READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”Liverpool are his boyhood club,  but sometimes you have to make these decisions.”When I told Manchester United in 2010 I did not want to sign a new deal and put in a transfer request, Chelsea, Real and Barcelona came in for me.”I was ready to play in Spain and some talks did take place.”A deal with Real looked more likely for a couple of days. Most read in Football”But it was Barcelona I thought about the most and how I might fit into their side alongside Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, Xavi and Sergio Busquets.”In the end I decided to stay at United but Barca had an incredible team and any player would have loved to have played in it.Wayne Rooney furious at what Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo did before FA Cup tie “Real are the same now with Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr, so it must be appealing to Alexander-Arnold.”Spain would be a really good move for him.”TAA has faced a fans’ backlash over the transfer.Rooney added: “The fact he would be going on a free transfer has upset them but that is down to Liverpool as well as Alexander-Arnold.”Referencing his own Merseyside exit, he continued: “It was a completely different situation for me when I left my boyhood club, Everton, to join United in 2004. What happened to the Englishmen who joined Real Madrid?TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD looks set to join Real Madrid this summer and will join an exclusive club to pull on the famous white jersey.So had did those who came before him get on?LAURIE CUNNINGHAM (1979-1984)Real Madrid splashed out £950,000 to sign Cunningham from West Brom in 1979.As one of the “Three Degrees” alongside Cyrille Regis and Brendon Batson, Cunningham had left an unforgettable mark at the Hawthorns.The left winger became an instant hit in the Spanish capital, scoring twice on his debut.Cunningham helped his side to the LaLiga title in 1980, and played in the European Cup final against Liverpool the following year.Following a loan spell with Manchester United, Cunningham moved to Marseille in 1984.Having played for Leicester, Charleroi and Wimbledon, Cunningham returned to Madrid with Rayo Vallecano in 1988.The following year he tragically died in a car crash in the city aged just 33.STEVE MCMANAMAN (1999-2003)Like Alexander-Arnold is set to, McManaman left boyhood club Liverpool for the bright lights of Madrid in 1999.A silky winger, McManaman proved to be a hit in Madrid.The Bernabeu crowd immediately took to their new English hero, with his floppy hair and nonchalant flair.McManaman helped Real win six trophies in four years, and scored his side’s second goal in their victorious 2000 Champions League final.He went on to leave Madrid in 2003, spending the final two years of his career with Manchester City.After hanging up his boots, McManaman worked as a pundit for Setanta Sports, BT Sport and ESPN.Now 53, he can regularly be seen on TNT Sports’ football coverage, especially when Liverpool or Real Madrid are playing.DAVID BECKHAM (2003-2007)In 2003, Real Madrid made Manchester United superstar Beckham their latest Galactico.Golden Balls joined a squad boasting the likes of Ronaldo, Raul, Zinedine Zidane and Roberto Carlos in the Spanish capital.Despite his love for high-end fashion and the celebrity lifestyle, Beckham became much beloved in Spain for his incredible work rate, professionalism and of course, quality.Despite boasting a star-studded squad, the fabled La Decima – a tenth Champions League triumph – eluded Real Madrid during his four-year stint.He didn’t leave empty-handed, however, winning the LaLiga title in 2007 before leaving for LA Galaxy.Since Beckham hung up his boots in 2013 he has continued to have several endorsement deals; including the likes of Adidas, Armani, Pepsi and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.Beckham, 49, also owns MLS side Inter Miami, and played a big role in their groundbreaking deal for Lionel Messi in 2023.MICHAEL OWEN (2004-2005)Like McManaman before him, Owen quit Liverpool for Real Madrid.But the former Ballon d’Or winner endured a frustrating season at the Bernabeu, finding himself stuck behind Ronaldo and Raul.Twelve months on from Owen’s £8million switch, Real Madrid doubled their money by flogging him to Newcastle.Owen then spent three years with Liverpool’s rivals Man Utd, before one final year at Stoke.Immediately after hanging up his boots, Owen signed up to be BT Sport’s primary co-commentator upon the channel’s launch.In addition to his punditry work, the former striker has enjoyed several other ventures.Owen, 45, has his own clothing range with Peacocks, while he also appeared on The Masked Singer.JONATHAN WOODGATE (2004-2007)Woodgate endured one of the most infamous debuts of all time after switching Newcastle for Real Madrid in 2004.The luckless defender went through injury hell following the £13.4m transfer, having to wait 17 months before playing his first game.Just 25 minutes in, the England international headed into his own net. Things then got even worse when he was sent off just after the hour mark.Woodgate played just 14 times that season, before a loan move to Middlesbrough effectively ended his Real Madrid career.After signing permanently for Boro, Woody earned a move to Tottenham in January 2008. He won the League Cup barely a month later, and remains the last Spurs player to score a winning goal in a cup final.Following spells with Stoke and back at Middlesbrough, Woodgate retired in 2016.He has since gone into coaching, managing Boro and Bournemouth.Woodgate, 45, returned to Middlesbrough once again in 2022, where he works as a first team coach under Michael Carrick.JUDE BELLINGHAM (2023-present)England superstar Bellingham sealed a blockbuster £115m transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid in the summer of 2023.The move has been a resounding success, with the midfielder immediately excelling in Spain.Bellingham scored on his debut, and went on net five times in his first four LaLiga matches.The image of the 21-year-old with his arms outstretched has quickly become an iconic one.Birmingham’s finest has already won LaLiga and the Champions League during his young career.And with Alexander-Arnold soon to be alongside him, Bellingham will feel that he can add plenty more to his already impressive trophy tally.”I did not want to leave them when I did – I was devastated – but I would have moved on at some point, to try to better myself and win some trophies.”That’s another reason why Liverpool fans might wonder why Alexander-Arnold might leave now, because he is already doing that with them. “But, again, it comes back to experiencing a different culture.”Read More on The Sun”And Rooney’s old team-mate Rio Ferdinand told Kop fans: “This kid  has been one of your best players. “You should be clapping him off and saying, ‘Well done’.” More

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      ‘I often read calls for us to spend more’ – Daniel Levy warns Tottenham fans about transfer business this summer

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      DANIEL LEVY launched a fierce defence of his Tottenham stewardship – as the cost of missing out on Europe was confirmed.Levy has been targeted by protesting fans with accusations that he is more concerned with the commercial success of the club than glory, glory on the pitch.Daniel Levy has fiercely defended his Tottenham leadershipCredit: AlamyHe insists the club must make ‘smart purchases’Credit: AlamyFans have criticised Levy for the way in which he runs the clubCredit: GettyBut as Spurs unveiled their financial results for the 2023-24 season when they finished fifth in the Prem, Levy pointed to the spending facts.Levy said: “Since opening our new stadium in April 2019, we have invested over £700million net in player acquisitions. “Recruitment remains a key focus, and we must ensure that we make smart purchases within our financial means. “I often read calls for us to spend more, given that we are ranked as the ninth richest club in the world.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“However, a closer examination of today’s financial figures reveals that such spending must be sustainable in the long term and within our operating revenues.”Criticism has also been aimed at Spurs highlighting the growth of the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as an entertainment arena, with concerts from Rihanna, Chris Brown and Kendrick Lamar this summer, as well as the ongoing deal with the NFL to stage two games a year.Levy, though, insisted: “Our capacity to generate recurring revenues determines our spending power. “We cannot spend what we do not have, and we will not compromise the financial stability of this club.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“Indeed, our off-pitch revenues have significantly supplemented the lower football revenues this year, testament to our diversified income strategy.”The numbers show a drop in revenue of four per cent, down £21.4m to £528.2m.Bizarre moment Robbie Keane gives yellow card to his own team-mate for hilarious reason in Tottenham legends matchBut that came with NINE fewer home games last term than when they reached the Champions League last 16 the previous campaign.Tottenham missed out on more than £55m in Uefa income compared to the previous campaign.This season the Europa League run ensures at least seven more home matches, although a miserable Prem campaign under Ange Postecoglou means Spurs must realistically win the competition to be in continental football next term.That would be worth £60m-plus in prize money alone and Levy conceded: “We currently find ourselves in 14th position in the Premier League, navigating what has been a highly challenging season on the pitch. “We are, however, in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa League. “Winning this competition would see welcome silverware and mean qualification for the UEFA Champions League. “We must do everything we can to support the team in these final key stages.“I want to thank everyone who supports us through good times and bad. Read More on The Sun“We are resilient and passionate about our Club.  We shall aim to finish this season as strongly as we can and continue to build for success on the pitch.”Debt has risen by some £95m to £772.5m with total borrowings of £851.5m although with 90 per cent of that being repaid at just 2.79 per cent the cost is under £30m under deals running to 2051.Tottenham must win the Europa League if they realistically want to qualify for European football next seasonCredit: Getty More

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      Nottingham Forest vs Manchester United prediction: Free betting tips, odds and Premier League preview

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      AFTER sealing an FA Cup semi final spot, Nottingham Forest return to chase a Champions League spot when hosting Manchester United on Tuesday.SunSport have enlisted the help of their betting experts to preview the City Ground showdown and select the best bets, tips and exclusive sign-up bonuses from our leading betting partners.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereNew sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesNottingham Forest vs Manchester United previewOne team chasing FA Cup glory and a Champions League spot while the other dithers about in mid-table.Not too uncommon a fact when Nottingham Forest play Manchester United. Except this season it’s roles reversed!Forest clinched a trip to Wembley over the weekend and set up an FA Cup semi final with Manchester City in the process.And with nine games to go, they’re in third spot and six points clear of Pep Guardiola’s team in fifth in the hunt for a top four spot.It’s been an astonishing season for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side, which included a 3-2 win in the reverse fixture in December.For Ruben Amorim and Manchester United, Europa League glory is still the aim as they get set for a quarter final tie next week.Two thumping wins over Real Sociedad and Leicester before the break will have been much welcome for the team in 13th place, including a Rasmus Hojlund goal and Bruno Fernandes’ incredible form.First scorer and correct score predictionsCorrect score: 2-2 at 12/1 with Betfred – HEREFirst scorer: Bruno Fernandes 15/2 with talkSPORT BET – HERENottm Forest vs Man Utd latest oddsNottingham Forest at 13/10 with William Hill – CLAIM HEREOdds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.How to claim..William Hill £60 welcome bonusVisit the William Hill website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: T60Once your account is registered, click ‘opt in’ on the ‘Vegas Promotion’ pageDeposit a minimum of £10 in your main account to receive a £20 Vegas Bonus for use on Selected GamesThen place a bet with a minimum stake of £10 at odds of 1/2 or greater on any football marketOnce that’s settled, your account will be credited with £40 in free betsWilliam Hill: Claim £60 welcome bonus – click here*Nic of timeOnly eight players have more bookings in the Premier League than Forest’s Nicolas Dominguez.Eight in 25 league appearances for the central midfielder, with an exact average of one foul per game across the season.Midfield battle key here and that can see him add to his tally.Nicolas Dominguez to be carded at 7/4 with William Hill – CLAIM HERE*William Hill. 18+. Play Safe. New players only, using promo code T60. Valid from 13/04/2022. Online play. Get £60 Bonus split between Vegas & Sports in the following manner – (i) Deposit £10 to unlock £20 Vegas Free Bet on Selected Games (72hr expiry, wagering reqs apply); then (ii) bet £10+ (odds 1/2+) with cash (excl. £10 deposit) or Vegas winnings (after wager reqs met). Once settled, receive £40 Sports Free Bets excluding Virtual Markets (4x £10, 7 days expiry). Payment methods & country restrictions apply. Full T&Cs apply.*Betfred. New customers only. Register (excl 05/04/25), deposit with Debit Card, and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility exclusions & T&Cs Apply. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. Full T&Cs apply.*BetMGM. New customers only. 7 days to place qualifying bet of £10 at 1/1 (2.0) to receive 4 x £10 Free Bets: 1 x £10 football, 1 x £10 horse racing & 2 x £10 Bet Builders. Free Bets cannot be used on e-sports and non UK/IE horse racing. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned T&Cs apply. 18+ GambleAware.org.*talkSPORT BET. 18+ New customers only. Opt in, bet up to £40 (min. £20) on any football market at odds of 2.00+, in 7 days. Get up to £40 in free bets on selected markets. Bonuses expire in 7 days. T&Cs apply, see below. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly*Tote. New customers online only. Eligibility restrictions apply. Only valid with code B10G40 on registration. £10 min qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater across sports or racing (if EW then min £10 Win + £10 Place). Receive £20 Tote Credit, £10 Free Sports Bet and 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza within 48 hours of qualifying bet settlement. 7-day expiry on free bets & Tote Credit. Your first bet will be your qualifying bet. One per customer. UK & ROI customers only. 18+. Full T&Cs apply. Gambleaware.org. Full T&Cs apply.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – GambleAware.orgRead our guide on responsible gambling practices.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More

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      Marcus Rashford stars on FA Cup weekend with 20-point haul to prompt wave of early transfers

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      MARCUS RASHFORD (£3.7m) earned more points than anyone else over the FA Cup weekend.The England international scored a brace as Aston Villa beat Preston 3-0 at Deepdale for the 20-point return.Rashford enjoyed himself at DeepdaleCredit: Dream TeamIn addition to his goals, one coming from the penalty spot, Rashford registered four shots on target and created two big chances before he was replaced in the 81st minute.He was far from the only Villain to take advantage of what was the most favourable fixture of the cup quarter-finals as Lucas Digne (£3m), Jacob Ramsey (£2.4m) and Ezri Konsa (£3.4m) also notched double-digit hauls.But it’s Rashford who tops the rankings for Gameweek 29 ahead of the midweek Premier League fixtures.Unai Emery’s side are due to face Brighton at the Amex Stadium on Wednesday night and it will be interesting to see how many points the 27-year-old on loan from Manchester United is able to add to his tally.Some gaffers have wasted no time in recruiting RashfordCredit: ReutersHe is already among the most popular recruits ahead of Gameweek 30, favoured by those who rightly see no harm in early transfers if they like what they see at the weekend.Remember, transfers can be reversed any time before the deadline if the outlook changes.Broadly speaking, this seems like a good time to back Villa players as they are the only team set to follow up a double header in Gameweek 29 with two more double Gameweeks.In Gameweek 30, Rashford and company will host Nottingham Forest before travelling to PSG for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.Most read in FootballIn Gameweek 31, they will visit Southampton before welcoming the Ligue 1 leaders to Villa Park.Emery will need to rotate his squad as Villa remain active in three competitionsCredit: GettyRelegation-bound Saints aside, it’s a relatively tricky run of opponents but the sheer volume of point-scoring opportunities means Emery’s troops are worthy of proper consideration.As expected, a 20-point haul has put Rashford in the spotlight but Villa’s attacking assets have shared the points around lately.Marco Asensio (£4.1m) has scored seven goals in nine appearances since his loan switch from PSG in January.Ollie Watkins (£5.2m) leads the way for goals (14), assists (13) and points (251) but he had to settle for a one-pointer against Preston as he was restricted to just a few minutes off the bench having skipped England duty because of a troublesome knee.Will Watkins be fit enough to start against Brighton on Wednesday night?Credit: GettyMorgan Rogers (£3.9m) and Youri Tielemans (£4m) have been the most reliable options in terms of minutes and both rank among the top ten midfielders in the game at the time of writing.Villa will have to produce something special to get past PSG in the Champions League but at present they are the only team still active in Europe and the FA Cup which makes them a huge point of focus.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 NOW More

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      Jurgen Klopp makes first sacking in Red Bull job and could turn old Premier League rival for vacant role

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      RED BULL LEIPZIG are searching for a new manager after Jurgen Klopp gave Marco Rose the boot. Klopp began his role as Global Head of Soccer at Red Bull on New Year’s Day. Jurgen Klopp has made his first sacking since being named Red Bull’s Global Head of SoccerCredit: AFPLeipzig coach Marco Rose was given his marching orders on SundayCredit: RexThe popular German left his role as Liverpool boss last summer after nine years on Merseyside.He won the Premier League and Champions League with the Reds, as well as two League Cups and an FA Cup. But it hasn’t been an easy first months for the 57-year-old back in his native Germany.Leipzig sacked head coach Rose after Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Borussia Moenchengladbach.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe loss left RB sixth in the Bundesliga and three points outside of the Champions League places. Rose had been in the role since September 2022.He twice qualified for the Champions League and won the German Cup.But a run of just two wins in 10 games meant he was shown the door by Klopp. Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKMarcel Schafer, Leipzig’s managing director for sport, said: “We have believed in our co-operation with Marco and his team for a very long time and, up to now, tried everything to turn things around together.”Given the development and the continued lack of results, we’re all firmly convinced that we need new impetus for the remainder of the campaign in order to achieve our aims for the season. Moment Jurgen Klopp had penalty meltdown at David Coote before video that’s likely to KO referee’s career”We’d like to thank Marco and his coaching team for the past two and a half years, the success we enjoyed together and their commitment to the club.”Leipzig could now target Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner, according to The Mirror. Klopp is a big fan of the Austrian, but will likely have to wait until the summer to make an approach. His role with Red Bull sees him oversee the management of Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg, New York Red Bulls, two clubs in Brazil and a third-tier Japanese side.But he has all but ruled out a return to the dugout, claiming he is “done” with management.Klopp said last October: “I will not be the coach of a Red Bull team. That is a clear commitment.”As much as you can give a guarantee, I will not be a coach at all. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I am probably the only person in this room who will be asked, ‘Where are you in five years?’ I don’t have a clue.””But I will not be a replacement of one of the Red Bull coaches. I hope we can create a structure where these questions will not come up at all.” More

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      Fears Rio Ferdinand will LEAVE TNT Sports with Man Utd legend yet to sign new deal months after it was offered

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      RIO FERDINAND could be set to leave TNT Sports.The Manchester United legend has worked with TNT since 2013, but MailSport report he is avoiding signing a new contract with the broadcasting giant.Ferdinand has become a popular pundit since ending his playing career in 2015Credit: Rex FeaturesThe former West Ham and Leeds defender is eyeing up work in the US ahead of the 2026 World Cup.Credit: GettyFerdinand made 81 England appearances between 1997 and 2011 and was included in three World Cup squads.Credit: AFP – GettyThat contract offer was reportedly made several months ago. In the background, Ferdinand’s management company, New Era, have entered into a partnership with Los Angeles-based media management giants William Morris Endeavour (WME).This is understood to have unsettled some at TNT, who fear Ferdinand may be eyeing up greener pastures elsewhere.The Hollywood Reporter claim that the partnership will focus on securing broadcast and commercial opportunities in the buildup to the 2026 World Cup.Read more footballThe tournament will be jointly hosted in 16 cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.To lose a key presenter in Ferdinand would be a major blow for TNT, who face more competition than ever in the football broadcasting market.While they hold the exclusive right to broadcast the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League in the UK, they now share the Premier League rights with both Sky and Amazon Prime.WME, who brand themselves as “the original talent agency,” also represent Kylian Mbappe, Tom Brady, and LeBron James alongside a host of other world famous actors, musicians, and personalities.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSFerdinand appears regularly as a commentator and pundit on TNT’s coverage of the Premier League and Champions League.He has also cultivated a large online following through his YouTube channel ‘Rio Ferdinand Presents’, which has accrued 1.2million subscribers a he interviews football personalities for his podcast.Eurosport to disappear from TV screen after merger TNT SportsHe relies heavily on his experience at Manchester United in his punditry, often covering the Red Devils and providing behind-the-scenes knowledge of the club’s inner workings.Ferdinand enjoyed a storied playing career and is best known for the 12 years he spent at Old Trafford, during which time he won six Premier League titles and the 2007-08 Champions League.His media career has also seen him dabble in filmmaking and music production. More

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      ‘Finally we have a fighter’ – Arsenal fans find video of new sporting director Andrea Berta SLAPPING Man City doctor

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      ARSENAL’S new sporting director has plenty of feisty battle experience against Manchester City. Andrea Berta was entangled in a pitch side scuffle with City doctor Max Sala after an ill-tempered Champions League quarter final tie in 2022.Andrea Berta was entangled in a pitch side scuffle with Man City doctor Max Sala in 2022Credit: XHe was spotted pushing Sala in the face after chaos ensued following Atletico Madrid’s defeat to CityCredit: XBerta (left) has been announced as Arsenal’s new sporting directorCredit: GettyBerta has been announced as Arsenal’s new sporting director, replacing Edu, who departed last November.The Italian was in the same role at Atletico Madrid since 2017 and held other positions within the club’s sporting hierarchy after joining in 2013.He became one of Atletico manager Diego Simeone’s most trusted lieutenants on and off the pitch during his 12-year spell in Spain.The 53-year-old was popular with the players and close enough to Simeone to be a regular in the Atletico dressing room.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAnd Berta used to get into the thick of the drama too.In April 2022, he was involved in the fracas which ensued after Atletico were knocked out of the Champions League by Pep Guardiola’s side.Arsenal fans have unearthed a video of their new director pushing a City club doctor in the face at full-time.Atletico defender Felipe had been sent off for a wild swipe at Phil Foden deep into added time before tensions boiled over after the final whistle.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesStefan Savic angrily confronted Jack Grealish and pulled his hair, while Sime Vrsaljko had to be held back from launching himself at Kyle Walker. And Arsenal fans were more than thrilled to see Berta’s role in Atletico’s typical passionate style and housery. Savic sparked the melee by charging at Phil FodenJack Grealish was involved in a heated altercation with Stefan Savic in 2022Arsenal star Kai Havertz gets haircut for wedding before marrying wife SophiaOne wrote on X: “Finally we have a fighter like Arteta in key decision making position.”A second said: “Berta doesn’t seat in the director’s box, he sits in the technical area. Love it! 😂😂.”A third added: “I love this. No nonsense. Arsenal through and through.”Another replied: “This is exactly what we need. The Emirates must be a cauldron of fire for opposing teams.”While one more wrote: “He means business.”Berta’s departure from Atletico in January can be linked to the club’s desire to modernise and revamp their recruitment process and overall board structure.He has as one of the most football-savy operators on the continent before being appointed sporting director in 2017.In the eight years that followed, Atletico won La Liga in 2021, as well as the Europa League and Uefa Super Cup in 2018, having also reached two Champions League finals in 2014 and 2016.Berta was named best sporting director at the Globe Soccer Awards in 2019, his acceptance speech lasted only 55 seconds.Berta was involved n bringing Kieran Trippier to Atletico in 2019Credit: EPAHe was also recently linked to the likes of Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United and AC Milan.Berta’s fingerprints were all over the impressive deals for Antoine Griezmann and Jan Oblak in 2014 and Kieran Trippier in 2019.Julian Alvarez and Conor Gallagher also joined under his watch last summer.And he was at the forefront of the profitable sales of the likes of Rodri to City and Thomas Partey to Arsenal.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut there have been some failures, including the £113m paid for Joao Felix in 2019 and the £60m for Thomas Lemar in 2018. For now, Berta has the unenviable task of landing an elite No.9 this summer, raising funds through sales and extending the contracts of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel and William Saliba. More

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      Arsenal’s new sporting director Andrea Berta is the transfer guru behind some amazing deals… but also some major flops

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      ARSENAL fans have been crying out for an experienced, ready-made figure to lead the club to major trophies and continental domination.That elite striker still eludes them, but for now, they have the next best thing: a man with a proven record of getting those sorts of players through the door for instant success.Andrea Berta puts pen to paper on a deal of his ownCredit: GettyThomas Lemar ranks among Berta’s less succesful buysCredit: AFP – GettyBerta’s time at Atletico Madrid ended in disappointment as they were knocked out of the Champions League by Man CityCredit: GettyMeet Andrea Berta – the 53-year-old Italian businessman turned transfer guru who has been tasked with just that in his new role of sporting director at the Emirates.He has big shoes to fill. His predecessor Edu worked tirelessly with manager Mikel Arteta to transform the Gunners into Prem title challengers through astute recruitment during his two-year spell in the role, having initially arrived as technical director in July 2019.The next step is clear: to build on that progress and deliver the Holy Grail of English football back to North London, ending their 21-year wait for a league title.And in Berta, Arsenal have – on paper – the ideal man for the job.READ MORE ARSENALHis 12-year affiliation with Atletico Madrid alongside Diego Simeone was littered with overachievement and success on and off the pitch, his dealings in the transfer market the envy of the European heavyweights, developing a reputation as one of the most football-savy operators on the continent before being appointed sporting director in 2017.In the eight years that followed, Atletico won La Liga in 2021, as well as the Europa League and Uefa Super Cup in 2018, having also reached two Champions League finals in 2014 and 2016.Arsenal announce Andrea Berta appointmentARSENAL unveiled Andrea Berta as their new sporting director with the Italian vowing to “shape a successful future with a great team” at the Gunners.Berta, 53, replaces former sporting director Edu following his resignation last November, with the Brazilian set to take up a new role in Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’ multi-club model.Ahead of a crucial summer for Mikel Arteta’s men, Berta is now tasked with bringing an elite No.9 to the Emirates, as well as negotiating contract renewals for key stars as Arsenal bid to win a first Prem title since 2004.And Berta – who left a similar post at Atletico Madrid in January – said: “I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club.“I have watched with great interest the way Arsenal has evolved in recent years and I have admired the hard work that has gone into reestablishing the club as a major force in European football with a passionate following around the world.“The club has great values and a rich history, and I am looking forward to playing my part in shaping a successful future with a great team.“I cannot wait to get started in my new role and I am really looking forward to experiencing my first game at Emirates Stadium together with our supporters.”Co-owner Josh Kroenke added: “Anyone who knows football knows Andrea is an impressive figure. He has vast knowledge of the game, a great track record, a strong network and an insatiable desire to build winning teams.“Andrea will be a great addition to our club. He understands our values and what we stand for and we have no doubt he will help us push on and take the next steps in our bid to win major trophies.“We undertook a thorough recruitment process and we were hugely impressed with the level of all the other candidates, but it was Andrea’s experience and the success he has enjoyed that stood out.“We are really looking forward to working together and welcoming him into the Arsenal family.”During that time, Simeone would often hail Berta as one of his most trusted and influential advisors, inviting him on occasion into the dressing room for big games.Following three weeks of talks, it was also Berta that convinced Simeone not to leave the club in 2016 after a gut-wrenching Champions League final defeat on penalties to rivals Real Madrid, urging the Argentine to rebuild and go again.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSBerta has been around the block to develop that sort of aura, starting in the financial sector for one of Italy’s largest banks, balancing his day job with a passion for football.His eye for assembling talented squads was honed at numerous amateur clubs in Brescia before being taken under the wing of Tommaso Ghirardi as a sporting director at fourth-tier side Carpenedolo in his mid-twenties, with further experiences in the same role at Parma and Genoa.Sol Campbell reveals he’d have never have made controversial transfer to Arsenal if it wasn’t for Lord Sugar By the time he met Atletico CEO Angel Gil Marin through mutual contact and super agent Jorge Mendes in 2013, Berta’s knowledge and success in the Italian market was attracting attention – enough for Marin to offer him a role as an international scout a year later.It is no wonder he was also recently linked to the likes of Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United and AC Milan.Berta’s departure from Atletico in January can be linked to the club’s desire to modernise and revamp their recruitment process and overall board structure.Power and authority was something Berta had become accustomed to at Atletico, often a leading voice on recruitment and player sales over informal dinner dates with Marin and Simeone at local restaurants, taking a hands-on approach in certain complex, big-money deals thanks to his relationships with key agents.That is not to say Berta is not a team player. He would take a step back when needed, willing to work closely and take the lead from Simeone, Marin and managing director Carlos Bucero, hesitant to act as a lone wolf like famed sporting director Monchi at Sevilla and now Aston Villa.This will be key for Arteta, wanting Berta to seamlessly slip into a leadership group that includes managing director Richard Garlick, executive vice-chair Tim Lewis, co-owners Stan and Josh Kroenke, director of football operations James King and current interim sporting director Jason Ayto.Berta attracted some huge names to MadridCredit: GettyBerta is not one for the limelight, very rarely speaking in public or taking credit for successes on and off the pitch, preferring to let his work do the talking behind closed doors.His fingerprints were all over the impressive deals for Antoine Griezmann and Jan Oblak in 2014, Kieran Trippier in 2019 and Julian Alvarez and Conor Gallagher last summer, as well as profitable sales of the likes of Rodri to Manchester City and Thomas Partey to Arsenal.There have been some failures. The £113m paid for Joao Felix in 2019 and the £60m for Thomas Lemar in 2018. But ultimately, Berta seems to get more right than wrong.He is renowned for his calm, measured, analytical approach under pressure. It is why it was a shock to see him entangled in a pitchside scuffle with Man City doctor Max Sala after a feisty Champions League quarter final tie in April 2022.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe full scope of Berta’s role remains unknown. Edu was also granted authority of the Arsenal women’s team, as well as integrating academy stars to the first team.For now, Berta has the unenviable task of landing an elite No.9 this summer, raising funds through sales and extending the contracts of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel and William Saliba. More