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      Man Utd have held meetings with Jadon Sancho in shock bid to bring him BACK to club next season despite Ten Hag fallout

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have met with Jadon Sancho in a bid to bring him back to Old Trafford next season.The £73million signing was farmed out on loan back to his previous club Borussia Dortmund after falling out with Erik ten Hag.Man Utd have met with Jadon Sancho over his return to the clubCredit: GettySancho was shipped out to Borussia Dortmund after a fallout with Erik ten HagCredit: PABut Ten Hag insists the meetings are to monitor his performancesCredit: ReutersBut the manager says that meetings have taken place with the winger and United staff have been in Germany monitoring his games.Ten Hag said: “We are close in that process. We are visiting games where Jadon was performing.“We had a visit with him, we talk with him and we will keep going with this process.”Meetings have taken place with now departed Director of Football John Murtough and Director of Player Negotiations Matt Hargreaves.READ MORE IN MAN UTDSancho fell out with Ten Hag last September after he was dropped for the away defeat at Arsenal.Afterwards the boss explained his absence for his poor attitude in training.The player later put out a social media posting effectively calling his manager a liar.While he took that post down, he refused to apologise to Ten Hag for what he did.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe was banished from the first team and made to train on his own and with the academy players, before finally being allowed to leave on loan.His poor form at United has since been at odds with his performances back at Dortmund, where he made his name, not least in last weeks 1-0 Champions League semi-final first leg win over PSG.Five things you didn’t know about Jadon Sancho (2)Now Ten Hag wants to put their differences behind them after this season has finished.He said: “There was a conflict and let’s first finish the season so stay away from this issue, now it is not important.“He has the return of the semi-final, in the league it is not going that well for them and we have four important games in the league and the FA Cup final and then we will see.”Clearly Ten Hag is already looking ahead to what the make-up of his squad will be going into next season, believing he will still be the boss.He admits he needs greater depth after being left exposed by a raft of injuries this season.He said: “That is one of the issues in constructing the squad. We have to construct a squad better, with more depth.”Pundits verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future
      Jamie Carragher – Sacked
      “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
      Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
      “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
      Louis Saha – On the fence
      “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
      Alan Shearer – Sacked
      “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.”

      There is a certain type of player he is looking for, as well.He said: “I think every manager wants winning attitudes.“Great mentality big personalities to perform under stress is what every manager is looking for. In this club it is extremely important to perform under stress.”A player he most definitely wants to keep is captain Bruno Fernandes who hinted in an interview last week that he will consider his future at United after this summer’s Euros.He said: “That was taken out of context. I know he is Manchester United and he is very happy to be here.”Ten Hag says his skipper is an example to the other players particularly those not prepared to play through the pain barrier.He said: “Bruno is a real fighter. Last year for instance when we played Brighton in the FA Cup semi final, he played with an ankle that was so thick, unbelievable,“Bruno is a very good example for other players.”READ MORE SUN STORIESUnited travel to take on Crystal Palace tonight without Harry Maguire.He has sustained a muscle injury that will keep him out of the last three league games but could make the FA Cup Final and the England international will be ok for the Euros.Man Utd are ‘dynamic and entertaining’… but not in a good way, says Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
      MUCH guffawing when Erik ten Hag proclaimed his Manchester United side as “one of the most dynamic and entertaining teams” in the Premier League after a 1-1 home draw with Burnley.
      But I agree with him.
      This season I’ve watched live as United beat Liverpool and Wolves 4-3, drew 3-3 with Coventry and Galatasaray and lost 4-3 at Bayern Munich and Copenhagen.
      I also watched on telly as they were beaten 4-3 at Chelsea.
      As a neutral, I can’t remember seeing any team involved in quite so many mental matches during the course of one season.
      The problem is Ten Hag isn’t there to produce chaotic entertainment for the likes of me, he’s there to make Manchester United successful and make their fans happy — which is an entirely different metric.
      Read Dave Kidd’s full column here
      Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles. More

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      Liverpool 4 Tottenham 2: Spurs fail to capitalise on Aston Villa slip-up with Champions League hopes all-but over

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      WITH Mo Salah and Spurs, you knew there would be fire.Not the kind of flames the Egyptian warned he would unleash if he spoke to reporters after last week’s touchline bust-up with Jurgen Klopp.Mo Salah headed Liverpool into an early lead against TottenhamCredit: PAAndy Robertson pounced from close-range to double the advantage before the breakCredit: GettyLiverpool’s Cody Gakpo headed home his team’s third moments after the restartCredit: AFPHarvey Elliott scored a rocket to make it four in front of the KopCredit: AFPBut the sort of blazing scoring form that has made him one of the Premier League’s hottest goal-getters in the last seven years – with Tottenham so often getting burnt.Salah’s opener here, after he was put straight back into the team following that fracas at West Ham, was his 12th strike against the North Londoners.The only club to feel his wrath more is Manchester United, against whom he has notched 14.His other favoured opposition are Manchester City, West Ham (both 11) and Arsenal (ten) – summing up just what a big-game player the 31-year-old is.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSalah may have faded in recent weeks, this game aside.But that lethal record against the best the Premier League has to offer shows how much the Reds will miss him if he does follow Klopp out the exit door this summer.Having said that, Spurs looked more like the worst in the top flight today as Ange Postecoglou’s struggling side made it easy for their hosts.From Guglielmo Vicario’s weak effort to repel Salah’s early header, to Emerson Royal having his pocket picked in the build-up to Cody Gakpo making it 3-0, the visitors had a shocker.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSLeft-back Andy Robertson made it two goals in as many games in between those strikes, firing in after a shot was saved by Salah, who also teed up a worldie for Harvey Elliott.The emphatic victory kept Liverpool technically in the title race, even though it would take a miracle for them to overhaul City and Arsenal at this point.Jurgen Klopp vows NEVER to watch TNT Sports again as Liverpool boss launches hilarious rant over ‘favourite TV channel’It resembled more of a fun day out for fans to remind them of what their icon Klopp is capable of creating on what was his penultimate home game in charge before he walks into the sunset at the end of the season.The Anfield experience must have been anything but fun for boyhood Liverpool supporter Postecoglou, whose first campaign is in danger of unravelling.This was their fourth defeat on the trot, their second where they have shipped four and their dismal away record in the league now stands at one win in nine.More worryingly, the free-flowing fare dubbed Angeball which delivered a hat-trick of Manager of the Month awards at the start of the season was in short supply.That was save for two late strikes, which proved to be consolations but at the time added a bit of drama, through ex-Evertonian Richarlison and Son Heung-min.They did not get close to capitalising on the favour Aston Villa did them by losing at Brighton earlier in the day.And now with three games left, including a home clash with imperious-looking City, they are seven points off Unai Emery’s fourth-placed side.Worse still, Spurs have in-form pair Newcastle and Chelsea in their rearview mirror.The Toon are only four points behind and, whisper it, old boss Mauricio Pochettino and his Blues are just two further away.Postecoglou wanted a reaction after Thursday’s dismal 2-0 loss at Stamford Bridge and Spurs actually looked OK for the opening five minutes or so.It was downhill from there, though.Salah struck the crossbar with an effort which surely must have been intended to be a cross on eight minutes, before Cristian Romero cleared an Elliott strike off the line.The hosts did not have to wait too much longer to find the back of the net as the impressive Gakpo clipped a gorgeous ball over to Salah, who had lost his marker Royal completely.His header was accurate enough towards the near post but Vicario will be disappointed he was so easily beaten.Former Everton forward Richarlison grabbed a goal back for Spurs after coming off the benchCredit: APSon Heung-Min then scored another as Spurs threatened a late rallyCredit: GettyLiverpool grew in confidence – no mean feat given their patchy recent form – and it was just a matter of time before the second went in.Gakpo, Robertson, Luis Diaz and Trent Alexander-Arnold all went close before Liverpool’s favourite Scottish left-back converted just before the break.Robertson had laid an Alexander-Arnold cross back to Salah and was Johnny on the Spot to turn in the rebound when the Egyptian’s shot had been saved.As the whistle went for the break, Romero and Emerson Royal had to be separated by goalie Vicario as frustration threatened to boil over.Whatever Postecoglou’s half-time team-talk was, it did not work as Gakpo headed in Elliott’s superb delivery for number three within five minutes of the interval.Elliott then netted the goal of the game just before the hour by driving a shot into the top corner from 22 yards. Gareth Southgate, if he was watching, will no doubt have been hugely impressed by the 21-year-old.It was getting embarrassing for Postecoglou, just like it had been at Brighton, Fulham and Newcastle since Christmas.But similarly to the 4-2 loss at the Amex at the end of December, his side did salvage some pride with a late rally.The first came when Richarlison hit his 11th of the season by coolly slotting home Brennan Johnson’s cross.Brazilian No9 Richarlison then teed up Son who became the first ever Premier League player to score in four consecutive matches at Anfield.No wonder Klopp thinks missing out on signing the South Korean is his biggest transfer mistake of his Reds tenure.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe late goals merely papered over the cracks for sinking Spurs though.While their nemesis Salah could even afford a wry smile when being flagged offside after burying in what he thought was his 13th strike against one of his favourite opponents.Jurgen Klopp only has one more game left to go at AnfieldCredit: PAAnge Postecoglou’s awful run of results continued despite the late rallyCredit: Getty More

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      Fans are only just realising one of the world’s most iconic football stadiums is named after a person

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      FANS are only just realising that the Santiago Bernabeu is named after someone.The Real Madrid stadium is one of the most iconic in the world and has hosted the club since 1947.The Santiago Bernabeu has been home to Real Madrid since 1947Credit: GettyIt was named after former president Santiago BernabeuCredit: GettyReal have played in the stadium for the last 76 years and enjoyed monumental success.The club has won 34 LaLiga titles, 12 Copa del Reys and 14 Champions League titles since moving in.Many fans never questioned the origin of the name of the stadium.They are now just realising that it was given the name of Santiago Bernabeu as a way of honouring a former president.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne posted: “Santiago Bernabeu is a person???”A second wrote: “I thought the same thing.”A third commented: “Wait WHAT?”A fourth said: “I was today years old.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnother added: “Bro I was shocked.”Bernabeu played for the club between 1911 and 1920 as a striker before leaving for a year and joining Atletico Madrid.Inside Real Madrid’s £500m Santiago Bernabeu stadium redevelopment which will actually reduce capacity by one He then returned to Real in 1921 for the last five years of his playing days.After retiring he then managed the club for a season before having roles as a director and assistant manager until 1935.In September 1943, he was appointed as the club president and continued to serve until his death on June 2, 1978.He was only just surpassed by Florentino Perez as the president to have won the most titles while in charge of the club.Real won the 34th title under Perez by sealing the LaLiga after Barcelona lost to Girona.The stadium has recently been renovated to be able to house a capacity of 85,000.READ MORE SUN STORIESThere is now a retractable pitch, which is maintained when not in use.However, fans did compare the renovated ground to an AIR FRYER when the roof was closed.Top 10 biggest football stadiums in the worldHere is a list of the biggest football stadiums in the world

      Rungrado 1st of May Stadium, North Korea (114,000)
      Camp Nou, Spain (99,354)
      FNB Stadium, South Africa (94,736)
      New Administrative Capital Stadium, Egypt (93,940)
      Wembley Stadium, England (90,000)
      Lusail Stadium, Qatar (88,966)
      Estadio Azteca, Mexico (87,525)
      Bukit Jalil National Stadium, Malaysia (87,411)
      Borg El-Arab Stadium, Egypt (86,000)
      Santiago Bernabeu, Spain (85,000) More

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      Jude Bellingham leads Real Madrid to LaLiga title in sensational first season after Barcelona lose at Girona

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      JUDE BELLINGHAM has been crowned a LaLiga champion with Real Madrid for the first time after Barcelona fell to defeat against Girona.Carlo Ancelotti’s side put one hand on the trophy earlier today after a 3-0 win over Cadiz thanks to goals from Brahim Diaz, Bellingham and Joselu.Jude Bellingham and Real Madrid have won the LaLiga titleCredit: GettyBellingham scored again in a 3-0 win over Cadiz which put one hand on the trophy for MadridCredit: AlamyBarcelona had to beat Girona today to stay in the race but lost 4-2Credit: GettyThat then piled the pressure on bitter rivals Barca, who travelled to third-place Girona knowing they had to win to stay in the race.However, the City Group-owned minnows – who have defied the odds to mount a top four charge this season – proved to be too big a hurdle to climb for Xavi’s side. Barcelona got off the perfect start with a goal from former Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen after just three minutes. But division top scorer Artem Dovbyk answered with a goal of his own for Girona only a minute later. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Blaugrana took the lead once again on the stroke of half-time through Robert Lewandowski.Girona though did not fancy being beaten at home for just the second time this season – their sole defeat at the Estadi Montilivi coming against Real Madrid – and surged back into the lead.Two goals from super sub Portu and a strike from Miguel Gutiérrez saw Girona take a 4-2 lead. And with Barcelona then unable to comeback, it saw Madrid crowned champions for a record 36th time.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBellingham has been an impressive figure for the champions this seasonIn the case of Bellingham, 20, he is the first Englishman since Kieran Trippier (Atletico Madrid) in 2021 to win the Spanish league title.Bellingham also become the first Englishman since David Beckham to be crowned champion with Real Madrid since 2007.England footie star Jude Bellingham’s new girlfriend is a lads’ mag pin-up in her native NetherlandsThe former Borussia Dortmund star may even be eyeing another Beckham accolade with the club’s Player of the Year award – achieved by Becks in 2006.Bellingham has netted 22 goals in all competitions this season, including 18 in the league which also featured two late in matches against Barcelona.His other four have come in the Champions League, though he is yet to score in the knockout stages. However, Bellingham and his team-mates have been banned from partying tonight by boss Ancelotti.Bellingham took to social media to celebrate his first career league titleThe legendary coach confirmed following the win over Cadiz that his Madrid players would not be going to the Cibeles fountain in the city center regardless of the result in the Barca game.Ancelotti said: “Tomorrow there’s training and everyone does what they want tonight, like this afternoon. But there’s nothing organized. We have to think about Wednesday.”Ancelotti was reminded of a similar situation from two seasons ago when Madrid won the title, saying: “It’s a different situation.”Two years ago it was in our hands, because with beating Espanyol we were champions. But today we are not, and it’s not worth the wait.”If we have to celebrate, we’ll do it next Sunday – something that the fans understand perfectly. “We haven’t won yet, so we can’t come up with scenarios like ‘if Barcelona wins’… READ MORE SUN STORIES”There’s nothing [to do]. [Go] home, [with] peace of mind and thinking about Bayern.”Last time out Ancelotti got fans love when he was seen enjoying a cigar in the celebrations, and it is easy to imagine something similar could occur again this time around.Meet Jude Bellingham’s stunning girlfriend, lingerie model Laura Celia ValkBy Jon Boon
      LAURA CELIA VALK is the stunning Dutch fashion model who has stolen Jude Bellingham’s heart.
      The Sun exclusively revealed that she’s been staying at his place in Madrid and is completely smitten with him.
      Laura boasts a huge social media following and regularly travels the world, enjoying a luxurious lifestyle.
      From underwear modelling to showing off Pretty Little Thing’s latest wear, she regularly collaborates with fashion houses around the globe.
      Wherever she is, Laura makes sure to drop into Chanel – her favourite designer.
      She’s also quite the foodie, with pizza and strawberries being her favourites.
      It won’t be long before we see her at the Bernabeu enjoying a prawn sandwich!
      Find out more about Laura.
      Or read all the latest Jude Bellingham news. More

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      Ange Postecoglou warns Tottenham players AND staff face axe – so who should stay and who should go?

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      ANGE POSTECOGLOU warned players and even staff members could go in his bid to turn Spurs into title challengers.The Aussie already implemented an overhaul in his first two transfer windows but, after three straight defeats, revealed more change is on its way.Ange Postecoglou says he is ready to make big callsCredit: AlamyTimo Werner’s loan deal can be made permanent for £15mCredit: GettyPlaymaker James Maddison’s form for Spurs has dipped recentlyCredit: RexPostecoglou, whose Tottenham side’s Champions League hopes are hanging by the thinnest of threads, said: “We’ve already made tough decisions.“We let some experienced players leave the club at the beginning of the year, some by choice.“But I feel like if we’re really going to change, that means change. You have to make decisions.“Some of those decisions aren’t that tough because, whether it’s a player or a staff member, they realise it themselves.READ MORE TOP STORIES“But some of them you have to make just because of change, not necessarily because they don’t fit in the picture.“I’ve got to change this squad.  I’ve got to build a squad I think can play our football. For that to happen, there have to be exits.”Postecoglou witnessed the early stages of Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool revolution up close with a Boxing Day trip to Anfield in 2016.And just like the Reds board backed the German’s vision then — to great reward — Postecoglou feels he has the support of  Spurs’ hierarchy now to continue his own overhaul.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe Aussie will head to Anfield on Sunday with some fans doubting him after three straight losses — including two painful London derby defeats to Arsenal and Chelsea.Yet he is further ahead than Klopp was in his first Reds campaign, where he finished eighth, given the Spurs chief is on course to come fifth.Jamie Redknapp forced to apologise after ‘stealing Sky Sports host’s thunder’ in awkward moment on live TVPostecoglou recalled a visit to take in Liverpool’s 4-1 thrashing of Stoke seven-and-a-half years ago in Klopp’s second season — which ended with the Reds finishing fourth — when discussing his own backing from Spurs bosses.The 58-year-old, a boyhood Liverpool fan, said: “In 2016 I came over with the family and  took my oldest son to Anfield to watch Liverpool.“It was just at the beginning of that building phase and, to be fair, they hadn’t done anything significant up until that point.“But there was just a real energy in the stadium around Jurgen.“The whole club, the supporters, everyone had bought into him, even though they hadn’t quite got to where they wanted to yet.“But I felt that in the stadium and that’s why I’ve always got drawn to managers like that.“You could see he could see things that others couldn’t in that time.“For the most part with the most successful clubs, that’s the  formula.“Part of that responsibility lies on me to make sure  I’m leading in a way that allows people to believe in me and support me because . . . it’s the only way I’m going to have success.“I’m not going to do it on my own, that’s for sure. I never have. Wherever I’ve been, I’ve had great support and right now I’ve all the support I need.“I really feel like the club has bought into the vision I have and it’s up to me to maintain that.”Some Spurs supporters questioned Postecoglou’s appointment in June from Celtic, arguing his success in Japan and Scotland was not enough to warrant a top Premier League job.Those worries soon vanished when he started the season like a house on fire, going unbeaten in his first ten games to send Tottenham top of the league.Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero are under the microscopeCredit: GettyYet that old narrative has reared its head again after losses to Newcastle, Arsenal and Chelsea have now left Spurs’ Champions League chances almost in tatters.Thursday’s display in a 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge was particularly concerning.Some fans are worried that though his open, attacking, uncompromising style won league titles with Yokohama and Celtic, it may not necessarily translate to the Premier League.And straight-talking Postecoglou understands he will have doubters until he delivers success.He explained: “What do you reckon they said when I got to Japan? [The same].“What do you reckon they said when I got to Scotland?“I get that. I understand that. It’s legitimate until success comes and then it doesn’t become legitimate.“My role is to navigate us to where I think we’ll be successful.“It’s not new to me. It’s not something I haven’t been asked before.“I’ve always just navigated it exactly the same way.“But that doesn’t mean those questions shouldn’t be there because until you achieve something, obviously people are just going to try and figure out if my ideas are going to work here.“That’s understandable. Until you have success, of course those questions are going to remain.Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s future at Tottenham is at doubtCredit: Rex“But do I have any doubts?  Absolutely none. I have clarity in terms of building us a club which will become successful.“I believe what I believe, down to my core. I’ll stand on the highest ground, die a noble death, believing in what I believe.”With Spurs’ hopes of a top-four finish seemingly wrecked, Ange Postecoglou knows he needs to overhaul his squad next season.Here, SunSport’s TOM BARCLAY runs the rule over who is likely to survive the cull — and who is in danger of going.FIVE TO STAYGUGLIELMO VICARIO: A little shaky from set-pieces but, overall, a big hit for just £16million.CRISTIAN ROMERO: Postecoglou hailed the World Cup winner as “outstanding”.MICKY VAN DE VEN: Dutch heir-apparent to Virgil van Dijk and lightning quick.DESTINY UDOGIE: Sensational in the first half of his maiden campaign and still so young.JAMES MADDISON: Tailed off recently but when he’s good, he’s perfect for Postecoglou.FIVE TO GOPIERRE-EMILE HOJBJERG: Dependable but not a natural Ange fit. One year left on his deal.BRYAN GIL: Talented but looks too lightweight for the Premier League.RYAN SESSEGNON: Injury issues mean Spurs may let him go for nothing.OLIVER SKIPP: A rare home-grown player but Postecoglou has hardly given him a look-in.TANGUY NDOMBELE: Spurs’ biggest-ever flop will be back this summer — but surely not for long.FIVE IN DOUBTYVES BISSOUMA: Form has nosedived since electric start to the season.GIO LO CELSO: Has shown glimpses but rarely features and has only a year left.EMERSON ROYAL: Spurs rejected £25m Saudi offer in January but may rethink.READ MORE SUN STORIESTIMO WERNER: Club can make his loan permanent for just £15m — but jury is out as to whether it is worth it.MANOR SOLOMON: Injury has ruined Israeli’s first season, prompting durability concerns. More

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      Little-known rule means Bundesliga side may need to LOSE final match to qualify for Champions League

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      EINTRACHT FRANKFURT could squeeze into next season’s Champions League by losing their final match.The Bundesliga is set to send an extra team to Europe’s remodeled elite competition next term thanks to their clubs’ performances across all three Uefa competitions and co-efficient ranking.Eintracht Frankfurt may qualify for next season’s Champions League if they finish sixthCredit: GettyEintracht will need Borussia Dortmund to win the Champions League and finish fifth in the BundesligaCredit: ReutersThat means Eintracht may have to lose their final game to RB LeipzigCredit: RexThat means Germany’s top five teams – Bayer Leverkusen, Bayern Munich, Stuttgart, RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund – will be in the draw.Eintracht are currently sixth with 12 points separating them from fifth-placed Dortmund, whom they will never overcome as there are only three more matches left in the German top flight.However, there is still a chance for Dino Toppmoller’s side to join their rivals in the Champions League – but they will need some help from BVB.Dortmund are currently in the competition’s semi-finals and targeting a place in the final at Wembley after beating Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the first leg at the Signal Iduna Park.Read More on FootballAs per Champions League rules, if Edin Terzic’s men win the competition then they will automatically qualify for next season’s modified tournament.According to Bundesliga rules, however, if Dortmund win the Champions League and finish fifth in Germany then the sixth-placed team will also be joining all the other five teams in Europe next season.This is an absolutely crazy scenario but it could help Eintracht do the unthinkable, and what makes this even more insane is that the Bundesliga outfit can help themselves in the most surreal way.Eintracht host Leipzig in the final day of the campaign and may have to lose to Marco Rose’s side to ensure the Red Bull club finish above Terzic’s side in fourth.Most read in BundesligaCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut that is still a tall order as Leipzig and Dortmund are within touching distance of Stuttgart in third, who still need to gain three points to ensure they finish ahead of the latter.Plus Eintracht don’t have sixth place sealed yet as Freiburg, Augsburg and Hoffenheim are very close.Bayer Leverkusen celebrate in dressing room as they seal Bundesliga titleIf Frankfurt finish sixth then they have Europa League qualification sealed as a worst case scenario.Toppmoller’s side face Xabi Alonso’s undefeated Leverkusen and Borussia Monchengladbach before taking on Leipzig.How the Bundesliga can send SIX teams to the Champions LeagueGermany can send an extra team to next season’s Champions League thanks to their clubs’ performances across all three Uefa competitions and co-efficient ranking
      Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen, Bayern Munich, Stuttgart, RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund will be playing in next season’s Champions League.
      But all five clubs could be joined by the team that finishes sixth in the table.
      Eintracht Frankfurt are currently sixth with 12 points separating them from fifth-placed Dortmund whom they can’t overcome as there are only three more matches left in the German top flight.
      However, there is still a chance Eintracht can join their rivals in the Champions League – but they will need some help from BVB.
      Dortmund are currently in the competition’s semi-finals and targeting a place in the final after beating Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the first leg at the Signal Iduna Park.
      According to Champions League rules, if Edin Terzic’s men win the competition then they will automatically qualify for next season’s modified tournament.
      And as per Bundesliga rules, if Dortmund win the Champions League and finish fifth in Germany then the sixth-placed team will also be joining all the other five teams in Europe next season. More

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      I’m an Arsenal Invincible, we were met by honeytrap Russian models to try to tire us out before Champions League clash

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      FORMER Arsenal defender Pascal Cygan has claimed Russian models were used as part of a honeytrap to tire out the famous Invincibles side before a Champions League clash.Arsene Wenger’s side went unbeaten throughout the entire 2003/04 Premier League campaign.Pascal Cygan recalled how Russian models were used to try and tire Arsenal players outCredit: GettyCygan was a part of Arsenal’s iconic Invincibles side from the 2003/04 campaignCredit: Times Newspapers LtdThey also reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League before being eliminated by Chelsea.But earlier on during their European campaign they were met with a rather unconventional pre-game tactic from Lokomotiv Moscow.Ex-French centre-back Cygan, 50, has since recalled that in the lead-up to the game Russian models were waiting for them at a bar in a bid to act as a distraction from the match.Speaking to La Voix du Nord in 2019, he said: “When we entered our hotel in Moscow there were 10 Russian top models waiting for us. They were seated in front of the bar.”READ MORE ON ARSENALHe then went on to add: “We were later told that they had been there to tire us out during the night before the match.”We didn’t lose, and as far as I remember none of our players were stupid enough to fall into the trap.”Cygan had a wife and two children back home at the time of the incident.Arsenal ended up playing out a goalless draw in Russia, before they beat Lokomotiv 2-0 in the reverse fixture three months later.Most read in FootballMeet the Arsenal Wags from Strictly star to a flight attendant

      Tomali Benson – partner of Bukayo Saka
      Benson and Saka have kept information on their relationship largely quiet.
      They do not appear on each others Instagram pages but she was seen speaking to Saka at the 2022 World Cup.
      Helene Spilling – partner of Martin Odegaard
      A professional dancer from Norway who rose to fame in the country’s version of Strictly Come Dancing, the pair were first spotted together at the Football Awards in March 2023.
      Sophie Weber – partner of Kai Havertz
      Weber works as a model and social media influencer and is the most high profile member of the group on online with almost 400,000 followers on Instagram.
      They are childhood sweethearts having grown up in the same neighbourhood.
      Milly White – partner of Ben White
      The couple got engaged in 2022 before tying the knot officially in May last year. They have matching “I love you tattoos” on their wrists. Milly White works as a model.
      Laura Trossard Hilven – partner of Leandro Trossard
      The pair met in 2014 before getting married in 2019.
      They have two sons together, Thiago and Amadeo.
      Lauren Fryer – partner of Declan Rice
      Lauren Fryer and Declan Rice have been together since 2015. She tends to keep a lower profile compared to some of Arsenal’s other Wags but is no less stunning.
      She sadly deleted all pictures on her Instagram after suffering horrific abuse by vile trolls.
      Georgina Ramsdale – partner of Aaron Ramsdale
      Georgina Ramsdale works as a flight attendant.
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      Cygan spent four season in North London, racking up 98 appearances for the club.His only major trophy at Arsenal came in the shape of the 2003/04 Premier League title.Meet the Arsenal Wags behind Gunners’ successHe then left to join Villarreal in 2006 for £2million.He ended his career with two years at Spanish second-tier side Cartagena, retiring in 2011 after being released by the club. More

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      Jurgen Klopp vows NEVER to watch TNT Sports again as Liverpool boss launches hilarious rant over ‘favourite TV channel’

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      JURGEN KLOPP has jokingly claimed that he will never watch TNT Sports again after he leaves Liverpool.The German coach, 56, dropped the bombshell in January that he would be leaving Liverpool at the end of the season.Jurgen Klopp has joked he’ll never watch TNT Sports againCredit: GettyThe Liverpool boss has hit out at his side regularly being scheduled for the Saturday lunchtime slotCredit: GettyThe ex-Dortmund manager has transformed Liverpool back into one of the game’s top sides since taking charge in October 2015.He achieved legendary status when ending their 30-year title drought in 2020 while he also led the Reds to three Champions League finals – tasting success in 2019.Despite Liverpool’s title aspirations and Europa League hopes going up in smoke over the past fortnight, Klopp is departing Anfield with a Carabao Cup triumph.He was in good spirits this morning at his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s home clash with Tottenham.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut he could not resist another rant of fixture scheduling and pile-ups as he took a swipe at TNT Sports again for the broadcaster regularly putting his side in the Saturday lunchtime spot after they had been in midweek European action.And he also said English football’s congested calendar is hindering our sides from enjoying more success against the continent’s top teams.Klopp began his tongue-in-cheek rant by saying: “The boys had a few days off this week which was super important and we could have proper training sessions again, which we are not used to.“We stumble from one -1 into the next. I said it from the first day, training helps.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“In general it’s a really interesting subject, seeing that Aston Villa lost 4-2 last night. If they go out it would mean no English team is in a European final.“You will all stay here, you will all talk about it. If you don’t decrease the intensity for the players…Michail Antonio ‘reveals what Jurgen Klopp told Mo Salah’ in furious touchline spat vs West Ham “If you think that all English teams underperformed, there were definitely moments – us against Atalanta and things like this. “But the Premier League is the best league in the world. It is not overrated, the players are overworked. Somebody needs to help the people.”Klopp continued: “You cut off one game (FA Cup replays), you give the top teams three more Champions League games. Everyone has a reason to say, ‘You cannot cut off these games, they are important!’ But you cannot sort it all the time.“I had a discussion the other day with colleagues from my favourite TV channel which I will definitely never watch again, TNT. And people always say, ‘They pay you! They give money for football’. It’s not that, it’s the other way around, football pays them.“They broadcast and deliver it but it’s not like TNT or Sky is doing really well and can pay all of you. “You have to become a partner of football again and not just the squeezer. That’s just a little advice from an old man on the way out.”Klopp was not finished as he added: “I will watch a lot of football but not all – people can survive without matches from time to time. “Manchester City and Arsenal are out in the quarter-finals, it’s just not a reflection of quality. I would like to be part of that meeting when someone says, ‘Liverpool 12.30’ and the whole room bursts into laughter. I would like to be thereJurgen Klopp”We are out in the quarter-finals. Yes other countries have good teams, it’s not about that – it’s a sign.“We have to change our approach. That’s how it is. When I speak about it they think it’s because of our situation, if we lost the last game. “But it’s a general problem. Nothing to do with our schedule now. They dare to give Thursday, Sunday, Wednesday, Saturday 12.30 – it’s a crime!Klopp has botched his Liverpool exit… and it’s cost him his legacy, says Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
      NOW we know Jurgen Klopp’s final major trophy haul at Liverpool — one Champions League, one Premier League, one FA Cup, two League Cups and (if you must) a World Club Cup.
      But where does his reign stand among the greatest of the Premier League era?
      In black-and-white terms, Klopp is way behind Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola, the only two men to have won multiple Premier Leagues and a Champions League at the same club.
      Those two sit alongside Brian Clough, Bob Paisley and Sir Matt Busby as the undoubted all-time managerial greats of the English game.
      But Klopp ranks in the next tier down — with Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho (the Chelsea version), Bill Shankly and Don Revie.
      These were all men with the strength of character to transform their clubs in their own image and enjoy success but who did not win as much as they might have done.
      Had Klopp managed to keep his intentions under wraps and ended up with another title, perhaps even a treble or quadruple, he’d have edged himself up into that highest echelon with Ferguson, Guardiola, Clough, Paisley and Busby.
      But deciding the timing and the manner of your exit is one of the toughest calls for any manager or sportsman.
      Klopp got it wrong.
      Read Dave Kidd’s take on Klopp’s demise in full here.
      Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles.

      “I was waiting for Amnesty International to go to them. I would like to be part of that meeting when someone says, ‘Liverpool 12.30’ and the whole room bursts into [laughter]. “I would like to be there. The quickest turnaround in the whole world… Liverpool!“They say you have to fight more and go for it. It’s absolutely insane. But they are still happy. “They like subscribers, you can take me off that list. If you are ever looking for a pundit, I speak English and could do it, but… what was the question by the way?”Klopp and Liverpool talisman Mo Salah were spotted rowing on the touchline in last week’s draw at West Ham.And talk of a rift between them escalated after the forward’s post-match remarks.However, the departing boss has rubbished any talk of a fall-out, saying: “Completely resolved.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s not a problem. We have known each other for (a long time) and respect each other. “We have a right to deal with these things completely independently. It’s a non-story.”Klopp says English football’s schedule is killing our sides in EuropeCredit: Getty More