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    Dani Alves’ brother slams prankster’s fake claims ex-Barcelona star took own life in prison after being jailed for rape

    THE brother of Brazilian former footballer Dani Alves has blasted an internet prankster for falsely claiming the disgraced star had taken his own life in prison.The ex-Barcelona star’s press adviser, Acaz Felleger, said they were considering legal action against Rio de Janeiro-based Paulo Albuquerque over his viral social media post.Dani Alves remains alive and well despite claims he had committed suicideCredit: PAThe former Barcelona man has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison after being convicted of raping a woman in the restroom of a Barcelona nightclubCredit: AFPHis ex-wife Joana Sanz accidentally shared his bizarre letter to her pleading for forgivenessCredit: InstagramAlbuquerque, who describes himself on X (formerly Twitter) as a lover of football, beer and a beautiful woman, wrote last night: “The information I’m receiving is that Daniel Alves has killed himself.”He added in a second post eight hours later, after his initial message had gone viral on social media: “People, for the love of God, what sort of repercussion is this?“I was referring to my cousin Danielzinho from the city of Nova Iguacu who had disappeared, but has now been found alive.”Alves’ brother, Ney, who travelled to Barcelona last month to see the footballer tried for rape ahead of his conviction and four-and-a-half year jail sentence, took to Instagram Live to issue a furious response.Read more in Football“How cruel human beings can be!” he said. “He’s already been convicted on the word of a woman who entered a men’s toilet to do what only he and her know.“He’s already been convicted. Is that not enough?“Now the madness is people want him dead. They want to see my brother dead. How cruel is that!“My dad is more than 70 years old and my mum is more than 60.Most read in Football“Do people like this not have family?”The former players’ family still believe he is innocent despite three judges finding him guilty of forcing himself on a 23-year-old woman in a toilet at upmarket Barcelona nightclub Sutton in the early hours of December 30 2022.Dani Alves’ model ex Joana Sanz arrives at court to reveal what ‘drunk’ ex-Barcelona star told her moments after ‘rape’Journalist Mr Felleger, who represents Alves, also denied the fake claims his client had committed suicide.Speaking to a Brazilian radio station, Felleger said legal action was being considered against the person who sparked the viral rumour.“The information was posted on X without any basis whatsoever,” he said.”I spoke with Dani’s lawyer and this irresponsible person should be sued.”Alves’ model wife Joana Sanz has yet to comment.The 31-year-old Tenerife-born beauty treated her 950,000 Instagram followers overnight to a photo of her training in the gym.Last year, she admitted she was seeking a divorce from the former footballer, which has subsequently been put on hold. Father-of-two Alves, 40, was handed his prison sentence on February 22 after being driven to the Barcelona court where he was tried over three days at the start of last month.He had been held in Brians 2 Prison near the Catalan capital for more than a year on remand before his trial.Alves protested his innocence on February 7 after taking the stand on the last day of his three-day trial at Barcelona’s Audiencia Provincial court.He claimed he had consensual sex with his 23-year-old female accuser and had not made her do anything.The woman he was found guilty of raping insisted the footballer had forced himself on her after hitting her when she gave her evidence in court behind a screen.State prosecutors confirmed at his trial they wanted him jailed for nine years on conviction and a lawyer acting for his victim demanded a 12-year sentence.They are also set to appeal in the hope higher court judges will hand Alves a stiffer punishment.Alves’ lawyer has already confirmed she will appeal his rape conviction and sentence.Last month, Alves’ ex-wife Joana Sanz accidentally shared a bizarre letter the disgraced rapist wrote to her from prison.He pleaded for forgiveness and thanked the model for being a strong woman as she went through “such a difficult time”, Vogue reports.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt came after Alves’ statue in his hometown was wrapped in duct tape and bin bags following his rape conviction.The statue is located in the central region of Juazeiro in Brazil and displays a life-size Alves wearing the national team shirt and a football at his feet.Joana Sanz previously admitted she was seeking a divorce from the former footballer, before it was subsequently been put on holdCredit: instagram/@joanasanzA Dani Alves statue wrapped in duct tape and bin bags after furious locals demanded it to be removed following the Brazilian’s convictionCredit: X/@MCITY_8Alves’ lawyer has already confirmed she will appeal his rape conviction and sentenceCredit: EPA More

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    Police ramp up security outside Anfield in bid to stop another bus attack ahead of Liverpool’s title clash with Man City

    MANCHESTER CITY have been told the area outside Anfield will be filmed on Sunday in a bid to stop another attack on their bus.The treble winners have seen their vehicle targeted on several occasions in recent seasons – notably when the coach was written off in April 2018.Police are stepping up efforts to stop any potential trouble outside Anfield on SundayCredit: Getty – ContributorMan City’s boss was hit by bottles and cans as it arrived at Anfield in 2018Credit: EPABT Sport showed evidence that the bus door had been shattered in the attackCredit: BT SportCCTV will be used to film the route of the Man City team coach on MerseysideCredit: Action Images via ReutersCity sought assurances from Merseyside Police over whether Pep Guardiola and his squad can expect a safe journey to the stadium this time.And the force has vowed to install CCTV along the route to ensure there is no repeat ahead of the title showdown this weekend between the Reds and Cityzens.They also say they will deploy specially trained officers on the streets in the hope it will provide some protection for the visitors.Chief Inspector Ian Wyke of Merseyside Police said: “We are working to ensure this game can be enjoyed safely by all, whilst at the same time minimising any disruption to local residents and on the roads. “READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“As with all Premier League fixtures at Anfield, we will have officers on duty at the ground and the surrounding area, both uniformed and plain clothed.“They will be supported by CCTV, the Dog Section, mounted police and other specialist resources. We will also have a city centre policing plan in place throughout the day.”City’s bus was first targeted as they left the stadium following a similarly important game at Anfield 10 years ago.However the attack was much worse ahead of the Champions League quarter final first leg at Anfield six years ago – with City needing a replacement vehicle to get home.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA bad tempered clash between the sides last season also saw damage to the visitors bus.And rivals Manchester United also came under-fire when their squad made their way to a Prem game at Liverpool in December.Liverpool fans throw bottles at the Manchester City team coach as it arrives at Anfield ahead of the Champions League tieMerseyside police has also vowed to crack down on tragedy chanting after it was reported when the two teams met 18 months ago.City boss Pep Guardiola was also targeted with coins thrown from the stands in the same game – and a crackdown on the throwing of missiles has been launched.Wyke added: “Our policing style will be firm, fair and friendly.“But officers will not tolerate any tragedy chanting, which became an offence under legislation last year, the throwing of missiles or the use of pyrotechnics inside or outside of the stadium.”Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola’s will collide on SundayCredit: Reuters More

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    Four Argentinian footballers probed over rape claims after woman ‘plied with drinks’ at luxury hotel

    FOUR top-flight footballers in Argentina are being probed over claims they allegedly raped a woman after plying her with drinks.The men, who play for Argentinian side Vélez, are accused of attacking the 24-year-old at a Hilton hotel in the early hours of March 3.Four top-flight footballers are under investigation for allegedly raping a female sports journalist after plying her with drinksCredit: GettyThe Primera Division club have confirmed the accused all play for their team.The accuser says she was invited to a hotel room in Tucumán, Argentina, over Instagram by one of the men following a cup match.The pair were later joined by three other players, it is claimed.The alleged victim said she was sexually assaulted after being plied with drinks and having to lie down on a bed when she became “very dizzy.”Read More football storiesShe went to police on Wednesday to file a formal complaint.Detectives and the alleged victim’s lawyer Patricia Neme have confirmed the incident is being investigated as a rape.On Thursday, Buenos Aires-based Vélez, one of the most successful clubs in Argentine football, confirmed it was aware of the complaint and had removed all four men from the squad, pending investigation.They said they would provide detectives with “all the information and other relevant assistance it needs”.Most read in FootballVélez have won ten Primera División titles and five international cups, including the Copa Libertadores and the Intercontinental Cup.They currently sit seventh in the table. More

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    Inside bloody Roma ultras who target Brits including vicious knife-wielding Fedayn firm after two Brighton fans stabbed

    ROME is a historic football city known for its talent on the pitch and incredible fans up in the stands – but on too many occasions this unwavering support has gone miles too far.The feared Fedayn ultras lead the violent pack and are known as some of the most dangerous fans in world football – constantly fighting, stabbing and robbing rival fans and especially Brits. Roma’s ultras the Fedayn are known to hit rival fans with beltsCredit: InstagramThe hooligans have been causing issues across Europe for decadesCredit: InstagramThey often wear masks to hide their identity and plan out attacksCredit: InstagramJust last night two Brighton fans were left bleeding out on the streets of Rome after thugs stabbed them multiple times and robbed them.Many are claiming it was the work of the notorious Fedayn firm who frequently target innocent fans of British clubs.Their name means “the devotees” in Italian and those in the gang are devoted to one thing – fiercely intimidating and hurting rival fans.First established in the 1970s by Roberto Rulli, the Fedayn group is chillingly modelled after an Iranian terror group.read more football fans They have a terrifying reputation for wielding knives on the streets on match days and seem to specifically target international fans travelling into Rome.Rome is certainly up there as one of the most dangerous cities a football fan can travel to – there can never be a guarantee that you’ll stay safeGeoff Pearsonfootball violence researcherBut according to Geoff Pearson, a football violence researcher, they target British fans more than anyone else.Pearson told The Sun: “Fans of English sides are frequently targets of attacks by ultra groups abroad.”Roma ultras, especially Fedayns, are quite active with atmosphere generation but some elements can also lead to them becoming involved in serious violent activity.” Most read in FootballPearson has spent the last three decades discovering the horrors of football hooliganism including one time when he was ambushed by a rival gang on an away day to Roma. He continued: “Rome is certainly up there as one of the most dangerous cities a football fan can travel to.”There can never be a guarantee that you’ll stay safe even with police escorts and their help.”I’ve even seen bus convoys in Rome be attacked by ultras when on route to the Stadio Olimpico.”Even more worrying is that ultras in Rome and especially Fedayn fiends have a tactical assault plan for when they come face to face with rivals.Often attacks see a guerrilla style assault carried out by the Fedayn’s as they seemingly orchestrate the chaos. Inside bloody world of the Italian ultras dubbed the ‘mafia’s foot soldiers’ as hooligans target England match It has been said that the core leaders of the group have weekly meetings to discuss harmful songs to be sung at games and to plan out fresh attacks.They typically wear a thick belt and when needed take it off and use it as a weapon to smack and whip fans into submission.From there they then reportedly stab them in the legs and put them on the ground to make them suffer without risking a murder charge.There is also a horrifying trend where victims report being left with stab wounds around their backside.The medieval torture routine is seen as the favourite attack method of football firms in Rome.The ultras are easy to spot outside grounds as they even have a dress code – a black hooded jacket, blue jeans, white trainers and a painful, stiff black belt.Some have even been known to carry hammers as they pile into stadiums across Europe.Rome is dubbed the “Eternal City” by many but that all changes when a football match is on as its been given the nickname of “Stab City” says The Gentleman Ultra.Several fans have suffered life altering injuries due to violence from Roma’s ultras across the last 45 years.The ultras marching through the streets pregameCredit: InstagramFedayn thugs are most well known in Britain for the vicious assault on Liverpool Fan Sean Cox that left him in a coma and wheelchair bound ever sinceCredit: PA:Press AssociationUltras attacking fans in the stands’HUNT DOWN AND HURT’Outside of Italy, the Fedayn are most well-known after they pledged to “hunt down and hurt” Liverpool supporters after they allegedly assaulted Sean Cox in 2018.The unprovoked attack before a Champions League match left Cox with a brain injury as well as wheelchair-bound. The hooligan responsible for the brutal attack, Simone Mastrelli, was jailed as the judge told him at his hearing: “You must have picked him (Sean Cox) out because of the Liverpool scarf.”Your head and face were covered by a hood and a balaclava and you were in front of Mr Cox with both arms raised towards him in a somewhat aggressive or confrontational way.”Thug Mastrelli led a group of around 50 to 60 “ultras” all wearing distinctive clothing with their faces covered.Many of them were carrying belts in their hands as weapons as others wielded knives.Former Roma president James Pallotta gave an emotional speech against the extreme ultra minority after the attack.He said: “We have a long history at Roma and what’s going on when you have a few stupid people is that they destroy our history and destroy our legacy and I’m tired of it.”It’s just a couple of f****** morons who take the rest of us down. It’s time for things to change.”UNITED FOR VIOLENCE In 2007, 13 Manchester United fans were taken to hospital after a Champions League game against Roma.During the game fans of each side were seen shouting and screaming at one another as flares and missiles were fired in the stands.The British Embassy said 11 Red Devils supporters were taken to hospital and two kept overnight for serious health checks.Several of those hospitalised complained to doctors that they were stabbed in the backside.Riot police with shields and thick batons reportedly fuelled the fighting as they battled against fans using force, say the BBC.Manchester United released a statement after the game saying: “The disturbing scenes witnessed in the Stadio Olimpico last night shocked everyone at Old Trafford.”MIDDLESBOROUGH WOESBack in 2006, three Middlesborough fans faced similar miserable days out as they went home with brutal knife wounds.Ten others were also injured when they were attacked by Roma ultras.A police spokesperson said at the time: “A group in excess of 30 Italian youths, described as Italian Ultras, came into the square. They were a clearly well-organised group.”They had an identified leader at their head – a gentleman who has been described to me as wearing a silver or shiny fireman’s-type helmet and a bandana across his face with only his eyes visible.”These people were carrying sticks, they had axes, we later discovered they had knives, they had firecrackers and paper firebombs.”One supporter injured in the barbaric assault was a 16-year-old boy as another 39-year-old needed surgery for his injuries, say the BBC.NO EXCEPTIONS Outside of the assaults on rival fans, Roma fans have also became incensed by match officials. Fuming Roma fans hounded British referee Anthony Taylor and his family at Budapest International Airport after they lost the 2023 Europa League final on penalties.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe local cops were forced to rush Taylor and his petrified wife and kids into a private room for their own safety.Things almost took a horror turn when a chair narrowly avoided hitting him and his terrified family.They often cause chaos in the stands as well as before gamesCredit: InstagramThug Simone Mastrelli was jailed for the attack on Liverpool fan Sean CoxCredit: PA:Press Association More

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    Brighton fans stabbed, beaten and robbed by gang of 7 masked thugs ahead of Europa League clash with Roma

    BRIGHTON and Hove Albion fans have been stabbed, beaten and robbed in Italy ahead of their Europa League last 16 clash with Roma.A 27-year-old and a 28-year-old, believed to be Brits, were assaulted by a masked gang of thugs and found by cops with stab wounds on their thighs.The shocking attack happened in RomeCredit: GettyRoberto De Zerbi is leading his Brighton team into their first ever knockout game in EuropeCredit: GettyBrighton training ahead of the match tonightCredit: RexPolice arrived outside a restaurant in Rome after hearing reports of fighting and found two men injured and bleeding on the street, Italian media reports.Cops were called to the Monti district after a waiter reported the chilling attack.The two fans had been beaten up in the street by “six of seven people wearing masks” just after midnight on Wednesday evening, a police spokesman said.The pair were also robbed of their bags which had their wallets and documents inside.read more in footballThe thugs sharply fled the scene before the cops could arrive. The two injured men were then taken to a local hospital.PC Darren Balkham, Sussex Police liaison officer for the club said on X: “We are aware of the incident reported in Italian media last night. “Have spoken to both Brighton fans who are ok.”Most read in FootballPolice are now investigating the case.A Brighton fan who saw the horrors unfold told The Argus: “We were just walking up the street having just left the pub, we weren’t chanting or anything.“All of a sudden these six people jumped us from behind. A couple of my mates ran away but I got jumped and beaten up.”They were kicking me everywhere, in the head and the ribs.“I’ve never had an experience like that. We go to every single game home and away and I’ve never experienced that, even in Marseille.“I’m a little shaken up and nervous but I’m still going to the game. We are staying at the hotel all day and then going straight back there after.”The game tonight marks Brighton’s first ever knock out match in Europe against a formidable opponent in Roma.Brighton managed to sell an impressive 3,500 tickets for the game tonight although the mammoth Stadio Olimpico will see them face up against 70,000 Roma fans.Among them are die hard football fans who make up the historic clubs ultras dubbed “the Fedayn” or the devotees.Italy as a whole has seen a number of issues with British football fans over the years.Brighton warned its supporters before travelling out to Rome to be wary of “street crime, including pick pocketing”.The British club also told fans: “Be vigilant, take precautions and take out valid travel insurance.”Avoid going around the city showing flags and colours of the club.”The club also faced fan issues when they travelled to Marseille for the away fixture in the group stage.Tensions flared following the Seagulls’ 2-2 draw with Marseille on Thursday night as supporters were shut in the stadium for hours after the European clash.Fans heading to the south of France had been warned they would be held up for at least 45 minutes for safety reasons.But furious football lovers complained they were kept back for at least two hours with no water offered.Supporters stuck in crowds claimed on social media some people fainted due to dehydration.Roberto De Zerbi’s men are coming into the match on the back of a turbulent few weeks. They haven’t won in the last three games and were played off the park by Fulham on Saturday in their final game before travelling out to Rome.Roma lost in the final of the Europa League last year on penalties under Jose Mourinho. After the match fuming Roma fans hounded British referee Anthony Taylor and his family at Budapest International Airport, forcing the police to rush them into a private room.READ MORE SUN STORIESThings almost took a horror turn when a chair narrowly avoided hitting him and his terrified family.The return fixture on the South Coast will take place on March 14, with Brighton looking to move on to the quarter finals.Roma fans are known for their fiery support of their players More

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    Sam Kerr’s Chelsea manager Emma Hayes breaks silence on star’s court case for ‘racist abuse of police officer’

    SAM Kerr’s manager has backed her player in the football star’s court case for “racist abuse of police officer”.Emma Hayes has given the Australian her “full support” on Wednesday after Kerr allegedly called an officer a “a stupid white b*****d”.Sam Kerr of Chelsea is hugged by manager of Chelsea Emma HayesCredit: GettyHayes has broken her silence Kerr’s criminal chargeCredit: Chelsea FCThe 30-year-old will face a trial after cops were called to a dispute over a taxi fare following a night out.Australia women’s captain and Chelsea striker Kerr is said to have been sick in the cab after a night out.Speaking to media ahead of the top of the table clash with Manchester City, Hayes backed her player.She said: “Sam has our full support, she knows that.Read more on football”It’s a difficult time for her. Of course I can’t comment, you know that.”Hayes was asked whether she knew about the criminal proceedings before Monday’s news broke.The coach said: “I can say that I know she’s pleaded not guilty and I don’t want to do anything to jeopardise anything for Sam by speaking about it. “For that reason, I’m sure you can appreciate that’s all I’m going to say on the matter.Most read in Football”But she has our full support, she knows that, it’s really important I get that across, it’s something I really really value.”There’s difficult moments, tough times and that’s what my role is at this football club, to make sure I look after our people.”I want to make it clear that Sam will be supported by me and everybody else.”Kerr is alleged to have unleashed a racist verbal volley when cops arrived to deal with the dispute in Twickenham, South West London, on January 30 last year.She has been charged with intentionally causing racially aggravated harassment, alarm or distress to the male PC under section 31(1)(b) of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.If convicted, FIFA poster girl Kerr faces a maximum sentence of two years’ imprisonment.Kerr, of Richmond, South West London, was summonsed via postal requisition to first appear at Wimbledon magistrates’ court on February 1.The case was committed to Kingston crown court where she appeared via videolink on Monday.She wore a white T-shirt and black  jacket and spoke only to confirm her name and plead not guilty to the charge.READ MORE SUN STORIESJudge Judith Elaine Coello ordered her to appear for a four-day trial at the court in February next year at which two police officers are expected to give evidence.Before that, a hearing is scheduled to take place on 26 April where it is expected the defence will try  to dismiss the case by claiming abuse of process.If convicted, FIFA poster girl Kerr faces a maximum sentence of two years’ imprisonmentCredit: Getty More

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    Football fan, 42, charged with ‘headbutting’ Roy Keane after brawl broke out during Arsenal vs Man Utd match

    A FOOTBALL fan has been charged with allegedly headbutting Roy Keane after a fight erupted during an Arsenal vs Man Utd match.Scott Law is accused of attacking the Utd hardman when he cheered a goal from his former club at the Emirates.Micah Richards was seen pinning a man against a wall with Keane nearbyThe alleged attack took place after Keane celebrated a late Utd goalScott Law has been charged with common assaultThe 43-year-old has been charged with common assault and is due to appear at Highbury Magistrates’ Court on March 14.Law, who is married with children, allegedly went for Keane on September 3 last year.Keane and fellow Sky Sports pundit Micah Richards were waiting by a lift at the North London stadium when the incident unfolded.The Utd legend had celebrated a last-minute goal from Alejandro Garnacho, which was later ruled off-side.Read more newsVideo showed Micah pinning a man against a wall following the confrontation.Both pundits were reportedly left shaken following the alleged attack.Witnesses also claimed blood was left splattered on the ground of the West Stand of the Gunners’ home-ground.The pair were eventually escorted down to the pitch, where they gave their thoughts post-match with ex-Arsenal winger Theo Walcott and presenter Dave Jones.Most read in FootballAn Arsenal spokesperson said at the time: “We are aware of an incident that took place during our match against Manchester United on Sunday.”The Metropolitan Police is conducting an investigation into the matter and we are fully cooperating with their enquiries.”Ole Gunnar Solskjær reveals how coach stopped him from charging at Roy KeaneKeane was reportedly left shaken by the alleged attackHe later gave his thoughts on the match More

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    Shock moment cops storm pitch and ARREST footballer ‘who runs deadly drugs gang’ before he’s led away in his kit & cuffs

    THIS is the shocking moment cops storm a onto a pitch and arrest an amateur footballer accused of being the boss of a deadly drugs clan.The 24-year-old suspect was swiftly cuffed and bundled away during a home match in Minas Gerais State, Brazil.A man was arrested in Brazil, during an amateur football matchThe man is believed to be the head of a drugs trafficking clanVideo footage shows the player, who has not been named, being dragged off the pitch by heavily armed police officers in front of stunned spectators.An arrest warrant issued by the Laranja da Terra Court identifies him as the suspected head of a fierce drug trafficking clan in Espirito Santo.He is also accused of being part of an assassination clan in Vitoria who masterminded an attempted hit on a rival on February 4th.The Military Police in Minas Gerais told local media that the man had a long police record for assault, threats, drug trafficking and firearms offences.read more on football He is being held at Minas Gerais prison under preventive arrest.The investigation is ongoing.It comes as a glamorous gangster’s moll wrote a love note to Scots drug kingpin James ‘The Don’ White after he was snared by cops in Brazil.South American beauty Paula Gomes told of her heartache when her “very special” boyfriend’s criminal empire came crashing down.Most read in FootballIt is understood she fell for the married hood when he was hiding out in the beachfront city of Fortaleza.Her Instagram is full of videos and selfies showing off her tattoos, curves and luxury lifestyle including flash trips to Spain, Dubai and Norway.Premier League star’s shock after gang take over home he owns & turn it into cannabis factory with hundreds of plantsWhite’s fling with Gomes emerged as he awaited sentencing for running a multi-million pound drugs, guns and dirty money plot from his Brazilian hideaway.The pair met after he fled to the country where he took over control of Scotland’s most prolific drugs cartel following the disappearance of Mr Big brothers James Gillespie, 50, and Barry, 46, of Rutherglen, near Glasgow.Gomes wrote: “I will never forget all that you have done for me.“Actually remembering you is remembering me. You are a very special person, very special.“I believe I never knew anyone with such a marvellous heart.“I only desire that your life gives you great victories and this great storm will pass quickly from your life. You are more than an incredible human being.A stunned crowd watched on as he was led away More