Champions League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares32 Views

      in Soccer

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

      by

      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

    • 175 Shares42 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘It’s hugely important’ – Shay Given fires warning to Newcastle despite Carabao Cup triumph

      by

      SHAY GIVEN hailed Newcastle’s Carabao Cup heroes but warned they need Champions League qualification to reach “next level”.Eddie Howe’s side ended a 70-year domestic trophy drought when beating Liverpool 2-1 at Wembley a fortnight ago.Shay Given spoke to SunSport in his role as brand ambassador for CopyBetCredit: CopyBetThe Magpies ended 70-years of hurt at Wembley this monthCredit: GettyToon’s much-loved former goalkeeper Given was part of the Manchester City squad that lifted the 2011 FA Cup to kickstart their Middle East revolution.But with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules, the Irishman says it will take Newcastle’s Saudi owners a lot longer to get to the top.And that is why they cannot rest on their cup-winning laurels this term and must do everything possible to return to the Champions League.Given, speaking in his role as brand ambassador for sports betting platform CopyBet, told SunSport: “The City lads really kicked on and obviously got the Premier League titles and other things that followed.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“Hopefully it’ll be the same sort of pattern for Newcastle but I don’t think it’ll be straightforward because there’s all sorts of different legislations in place now that might make it take longer.“It’s an unbelievable achievement what they have done to lift that burden after 70 years but there is still a prize to play for with Champions League qualification.“That is, probably for the club to go on to the next level, nearly as important if not more than picking up the Carabao Cup.“What that would mean is they can strengthen again and regenerate the money back into the playing squad. At the end of the day, that’s only where you’re going to really challenge for a Premier League title, Champions League and things like that.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“Eddie Howe and the powers that be in Newcastle understand that as well. So, there’s so much to play for this season in the remaining games. It’s hugely important to get that Champions League spot.”And sealing a return to Europe’s top club competition is not only vitally important for the club coffers and PSR.Eddie Howe fights back tears as he dedicates Carabao Cup to late mum as Newcastle hero Dan Burn says ‘don’t wake me up’It would also help them to keep hold of £150m-rated top scorer Alexander Isak amid interest from Barcelona, Liverpool and Arsenal.And he insists that the Swedish hitman is the perfect man for Howe to build a side around to challenge the big boys.Given added: “The one player in the whole squad I don’t think you can afford to lose Isak.“It would send such a wrong message to everyone. It would put you back and leave a massive hole on what probably is the most important position on your team.“Hopefully Champions League will come and that’ll keep others from trying to lure Alexander away.“He’s the player that you can build around for years to come and he’s the kind of player that you can challenge at the very top with.”Shay Given is a brand ambassador for sports betting platform CopyBet. Visit CopyBet.comKeeping Alexander Isak is a must for the Magpies, says their legendary former goalieCredit: AlamyHow ‘big angel’ Joelinton rescued boss after he fainted in SubwayNEWCASTLE cult hero Joelinton rescued his old boss after he fainted in Subway.And coach Pellegrino Matarazzo still calls the Brazilian his ‘angel’.Matarazzo was Joelinton assistant manager during the midfielder’s spell in Germany with Hoffenheim.Recalling the scary incident, the Matarazzo revealed: “I was standing in the queue and I wasn’t feeling well.“I tried to go over to the Coca-Cola machine to quickly get a drink.”I realised I was about to faint, and I did faint.“When I opened my eyes I saw Joelinton! ‘Rino, Rino, are you okay?'”He was like a small, no a big, angel – Joelinton, what are you doing here?”Read the full story… More

    • 238 Shares56 Views

      in Soccer

      Man City cough up £30MILLION on lawyers to fight Premier League’s 115 charges – more than star defender’s wages

      by

      MANCHESTER CITY have spent over £30million on lawyers to fight the Premier League’s 115 charges.The latest accounts for parent company City Football Group shows that City had splashed a running total of £30,596,000 on legal fees in the war against PL chiefs over alleged rule breaches by the end of the 2023-24 campaign.Manchester City have spent more than £30million on lawyers fighting Prem chargesCredit: GettyThe club have won six titles since Pep Guardiola took over in 2016Credit: PAThat was an increase of nearly £10.7m on the figure from 12 months before – or £205,000 per week.The staggering sum is equivalent to what Josko Gvardiol, one of City’s top 10 earning players last season, was paid.CFG said in documents filed at Companies House that the £30,596,000 was “due to expenses incurred by City Football Group Limited on behalf of Newton Investment and Management”.NIM is the Abu Dhabi-based company through which Sheikh Mansour owns his majority stake in CFG, which in turn owns City and a number of other clubs worldwide.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSunSport understands that this money is the running total of City’s legal costs in their war against the Prem chief.And the bill for this season is set to be the highest yet.The main disciplinary case between the Premier League and the club was heard between September and December, with the three-person independent panel set to deliver their verdict in the coming weeks.Respected lawyer Lord Pannick KC was hired by the club in February last year to lead their legal team as they looked to clear their name.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKLord Pannick reportedly charges around £5,000 an hour for his services.By splashing out such huge sums City owner Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al-Nahyan is only making good on his alleged vow when City were fighting previous financial charges brought by Uefa.Inside Man City’s £300MILLION new stadium upgrade with futuristic Etihad project to rival AnfieldIn 2020, al-Nahyan was reported to have said he would said”“rather spend £30million on the 50 best lawyers” and sue Uefa “for the next 10 years” than accept their punishment.His remark came after the club were banned from the Champions League for two years and hit with a £25million fine, after being found of falsely inflating their sponsorship revenues when submitting accounts.The ban was overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) a few months later and the fine was reduced to £8.9million for their “disregard” of the principle of cooperation in investigations.City deny wrongdoing over the 115 charges, but could face severe punishments if the allegations are proven.Last month City won a separate legal battle with the Premier League over “unlawful” financial rules.An 18-page tribunal verdict ruled the Prem’s sponsorship regulations on Associated Party Transactions – which ran from December 2021 to November 2024 – were unlawful in their entirety.The Premier League recently warned its clubs that it spent more than £45million on legal bills last season, due to various disputes over its financial regulations. More

    • 188 Shares56 Views

      in Soccer

      Carlo Ancelotti ‘faces FOUR-YEAR prison sentence’ as Real Madrid manager is accused of tax evasion

      by

      CARLO ANCELOTTI is facing FOUR YEARS behind bars for alleged tax evasion.The Real Madrid gaffer is accused of deliberately misinforming the Spanish tax office of his earnings during his first spell in charge of the club between 2014 and 2015.Carlo Ancelotti has been accused of deliberately misinforming the Spanish tax office of his earnings during his first stint at Real MadridCredit: REXIf found guilty, the Italian could face four years behind barsCredit: REXIt’s alleged that the Italian misled the tax office to avoid paying over £833,000 in income tax.The 65-year-old is set to appear in court on April 2 to address the allegations.His court date will come the day after the first leg of Real’s Copa del Rey semi-final tie against Real Sociedad.That’s just six days before the first leg of Los Blancos’ Champions League quarter-final tie with Arsenal. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAncelotti has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, although the former AC Milan and Everton boss has previously underpaid tax.He admitted to not paying his fair share of tax in 2014 but blamed his doing so on errors from his accountants.The Italian is adamant he hasn’t broken the law, claiming he didn’t spend the 183 days in Spain required to pay tax.Prosecutors, however, will argue the bulk of his income came from Real as he didn’t take charge of Bayern Munich until December 2016.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSCarlo Ancelotti has denied any wrongdoing and believes he’ll be exoneratedCredit: REXIf found guilty, Ancelotti could face FOUR YEARS behind bars.The veteran manager, however, is confident he’ll be exonerated of any wrongdoing.Watch Carlo Ancelotti lead Real Madrid stars in wacky dance before they throw him up in air after Champions League finalHe said of his legal issues: “This is an old story.”The Prosecutor’s Office believes I was a resident in 2015, and I believe I wasn’t.”The fine has been paid, and the case is in the hands of my lawyers.”I’m convinced I’m innocent. Let’s see what the judge decides.”Ancelotti isn’t the only high-profile Spanish football star to be embroiled in a tax scandal. Barcelona icon Lionel Messi and his father, Jorge, were convicted of tax fraud for defrauding the government of £3.4million between 2007 and 2009.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn 2016, the Argentine was hit with a 21-month jail term for using tax havens to conceal his earnings from image rights. But he ended up paying a fine of £223,000 instead. More

    • 225 Shares37 Views

      in Soccer

      Newly-emerged footage shows ‘disgusting act’ Kylian Mbappe did that could see him BANNED for Arsenal vs Real Madrid

      by

      NEW footage showing a “disgusting act” from Kylian Mbappe could boost Arsenal’s Champions League hopes. Mbappe, plus Real Madrid team-mates Vinicius Junior, Antonio Rudiger and Dani Ceballos, already face a Uefa probe and possible ban.Kylian Mbappe is being investigated after this act in front of Atletico fansCredit: X / Rory_Talks_BallMbappe broke off from other Real players as they faced Atleti supportersCredit: X / Rory_Talks_BallAntonio Rudiger and Co didn’t holdback with their victory celebrationsCredit: ReutersIt follows Real’s controversial celebrations after beating neighbours Atletico in the last 16.A Uefa Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector is investigating claims of “indecent conduct” by the four superstars.Any suspension for those key men would surely improve Arsenal’s chances of seeing off Real in the quarter-finals.The Gunners host the reigning Champions League kings in the first leg on April 8, before visiting Spain for the return tie eight days later.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNow Mbappe could be in even hotter water – after a clip emerged appearing to show him mimicking a lewd act in front of Atletico fans.Fellow Real aces were jigging with delight towards the angry home fans, apparently taunting them over Atletico’s shootout agony.In the newly-shown video, the 26-year-old can be seen away from that pack of jubilant team-mates.The France striker is captured mouthing something towards the crowd and making a rude had movement that certainly won’t help his case with Uefa.Most read in Champions LeagueAntonio Rudiger is under investigation following this gestureCredit: GettyBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKHe already stands accused of touching his genitals in a derogatory way.A man who posted the latest footage wrote: “Such a disgusting act from Mbappe.”Trent Alexander-Arnold has agreed terms on a move to Real Madrid this summer, according to reports A tense atmosphere at the Metropolitano became worse after Atletico’s Julian Alvarez had a shootout penalty ruled by VAR.Atleti are since understood to have formally complained to Uefa about behaviour ON the pitch.Vinicius is accused of taking six “shots” at home supporters amid two separate confrontations during and after the game.The Brazilian, 24, has long been long targeted by opposition fans and has been a regular victim of racist abuse.Rudiger is alleged to have made a throat-slitting gesture to Atleti fans.And Ceballos is also being investigated, over claims he made an obscene gesture with a clenched fist.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, ex-Chelsea defender  Rudiger began a jubilant high-knee dance after hitting the winning spot-kick.Many Real team-mates, including subs, joined in as the bitter rivalry between the two clubs boiled over. More

    • 238 Shares67 Views

      in Soccer

      Pep Guardiola suggests Man City trophy bonuses should be scrapped as stars ‘don’t deserve even a watch’ this season

      by

      PEP GUARDIOLA admits he and his underperforming Manchester City stars do not deserve a bonus if they are crowned world champions this summer – not even a souvenir watch!The outgoing Premier League champs head to the States to take part in the first ever FIFA Club World Cup this summer.Pep Guardiola seems to feel his players can’t redeem their seasonCredit: ReutersIt is a competition which City’s Abu Dhabi owners are placing great focus on – and FIFA upped the stakes this week by announcing astonishing prize money.The winners will walk away with around £100 million – roughly what the bottom-placed Premier League club makes over the entire season in TV and prize money.That would normally mean a healthy bonus coming the way of City staff.But straight-talking Guardiola says he and his staff on and off the pitch will not merit it, after their miserable domestic campaign.READ MORE MAN CITY NEWSHe said: “We don’t deserve it this season.“We don’t deserve a bonus this season. The bonus, if you win, I don’t know how much.“You go there, (winning) it’s for the club. The managers, the backroom staff, the players we don’t deserve, not even a watch.”Eye-watering bonuses are part and parcel of the top-level game, with reports that City regulars pocketed around £2 million each for winning the treble two seasons ago – half of that for success in the Champions League.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKNonetheless, Guardiola’s under-achievers can still salvage something from their poor domestic season by winning the FA Cup.Fifth-placed City visit Bournemouth, who have slipped to 10th, in the quarter-finals on Sunday.Why Man City could be dumped out of the FA Cup by Bournemouth | Experts’ best bets – Weekend WagerGuardiola said of the Cherries: “They have a special way of playing and it works with the players and the ideas that they have. “Every team plays in a specific way and they do it really well. Other teams are more direct, other teams want more crosses.”Guardiola is aiming to become only the fourth manager since World War Two to lift the FA Cup for a third time.The other three are certainly managerial legends too – Bill Nicholson, Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger. More

    • 188 Shares41 Views

      in Soccer

      Bayern Munich threaten to sue Canada’s national team over ‘clear violation’ in Alphonso Davies injury

      by

      BAYERN MUNICH are considering legal action against the Canadian Soccer Federation after Alphonso Davies’ injury.The full-back, 24, is out for the rest of the season due to a torn ligament and further damage to his right knee.Bayern are fuming at Alphonso Davies’ injury and treatmentCredit: GettyThe Canada defender had surgery, ruling him out until the summerCredit: ReutersThat occurred on Sunday while playing in Canada’s 2-1 victory over the USA in the third-place decider for the CONCACAF Nations League.The star has undergone surgery after returning to Bayern, who have accused the Canadians of failing to provide “appropriate care” for Davies.Bayern chief executive Jan-Christian Dreesen fumed: “We’re demanding a full investigation into the events from Canada Soccer and expressly reserve the right to take legal action.“Sending a clearly injured player with a damaged knee on a 12-hour intercontinental flight without a thorough medical assessment is, in our view, grossly negligent and a clear breach of medical duty of care.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“Davies should not have been playing at all. The participation of Davies, who already had muscular problems before the game, in a match of no sporting significance is incomprehensible from our point our view.”Bayern sporting director Christoph Freund also blasted the treatment by Canada’s medical team as he added: “Phonzy complained of fatigue.“He’s the team captain, a young lad who wants to help his country. Most read in FootballThe Germans will miss Davies for their important run-inBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”Then there’s this injury. I think it’s negligent, unprofessional.”Bayern boss Vincent Kompany will be without Davies for Bayern’s Bundesliga run-in and quest to reach the Champions League final at their home stadium.Bastian Schweinsteiger is booed by own Bayern fans who think he is leaving before he announces he is staying French defender Dayot Upamecano also returned from Nations League duty with a knee injury, although it is not as serious.Fellow defender Kim Min-jae was already sidelined.Another Bayern defender, Dayot Upamecano, also picked up an injuryCredit: AFP More

    • 225 Shares62 Views

      in Soccer

      Bukayo Saka returns to training with two word-post as Arsenal get major boost ahead of Real Madrid clash

      by

      BUKAYO SAKA is on the verge of an Arsenal return.The Gunners star was pictured for the first time back in full training at London Colney today after undergoing hamstring surgery in December.Arsenal superstar Bukayo Saka has returned to full trainingCredit: Instagram / bukayosaka87The England star is in contention to play in the Gunners’ upcoming games after recovering from surgeryCredit: ReutersSaka teased fans in an Instagram post showing him smiling with his thumbs up alongside the caption: “Hello again.”And SunSport understands he is in contention to be included in the squad to face Fulham on Tuesday night ahead of vital clashes against Everton and Real Madrid.Saka, 23, tore his hamstring in a 5-1 Prem win over Crystal Palace on December 21 before having surgery to fix the issue days later.He has missed 19 games in all competitions since then, a run that saw Arsenal knocked out of the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, as well as lose ground in the Prem title race.Read More on ArsenalThe target was always for Saka to make it back for the Champions League quarter final first leg at home to Real Madrid on April 8 – and he looks on course to achieve that.Arteta is keen for Saka to get some minutes under his belt before then, with opportunities to do so at the Emirates against the Cottagers next week before a trip to Goodison Park to face Everton on April 5.Despite his impressive recovery and rehab so far, Arsenal remain wary over pushing Saka too hard too soon. He will likely be given cameo appearances off the bench to prove his fitness and get back up to speed.Saka has stepped up his training load during the international break while his teammates have been away with their countries.Most read in FootballBefore the break, asked how Saka would be progressing, Arteta explained: “Hopefully with more ball at his feet than he has had. “That will mean he is passing the ball and shooting and running and everything. He has done quite a lot already on the pitch working on his own. “Next we need to arrange it with people around him in a more competitive training session and see how he goes with that.”Despite his absence, Saka has been a constant presence in and around the team during his rehab, seen on crutches at the turn of the year supporting from the stands at the Emirates.On the club’s warm-weather retreat to Dubai last month, Saka flew out with the squad to carry on his individualised solo training plan with light gym work.He was also spotted in the Wembley tunnel speaking to Three Lions coach Thomas Tuchel after England’s 3-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Latvia on Monday.Saka’s return has been aided by some much-needed rest, spending time abroad on holiday with his family in late January.Arsenal are in need of some attacking inspiration after Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus were ruled out for the season with hamstring and knee issues respectively, forcing midfielder Mikel Merino to deputise as a centre forward.And manager Mikel Arteta received yet another blow during the international break as Riccardo Calafiori had to withdraw from Italy’s squad after hurting his knee.Saka’s influence cannot be understated. Even after a three-month lay-off, he remains the leading provider of goals and assists in all competitions for Arsenal this term [nine goals and 13 assists].Three points adrift of Prem leaders Liverpool at the time of his injury, Arteta’s men now find themselves 13 points behind with nine games to play.Arteta was desperate to bring in reinforcements during the January window, linked with Red Bull Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, but could not get a deal over the line.Arsenal could be set for another major boost as Real face being without four stars for the first leg.Superstar strikers Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior as well as former Chelsea ace Antonio Rudiger and ex-Gunner Dani Caballos face an official Uefa probe for allegedly making obscene gestures after their victory over Atletico Madrid in the Last-16.Join SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesVinicius was the most high-profile case as he reportedly took six “shots” at Atletico supporters during and after the clash at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium.Rudiger, on the other hand, was accused of making a throat-slitting gesture to Atleti supporters.READ MORE SUN STORIESCeballos, who spent two years at Arsenal before his return to Madrid in 2021, is accused of making an obscene one-armed gesture with a clenched fist.And Mbappe was reported for touching his genitals in a clearly derogatory manner.Saka underwent surgery on his hamstring and has missed the last three monthsCredit: Getty More