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      in Soccer

      How Bruno Fernandes’ ‘Steven Gerrard syndrome’ is spoiling Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd system

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are looking to find a silver lining in their woeful season by winning the FA Cup but will need to beat Fulham in the fifth round on Sunday to move a step closer to that goal.The Red Devils beat Ipswich 3-2 earlier this week despite being down to ten men, but are still flattering to deceive in many ways.On today’s Tactics Exposed we break down why Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 is not workingCredit: GettyBruno Fernandes’ ‘Steven Gerrard syndrome’ is both a blessing and a curse for UnitedCredit: ReutersRasmus Hojlund will need a big turnaround to prove he is the solution at Man UtdCredit: EPAA young, talented Portuguese manager could prove a huge thorn in the side of Man Utd when Marco Silva’s Fulham visit Old Trafford.The Cottagers have gone under the radar for how good a season they are having, sitting in the top half of the table.Meanwhile, Man Utd’s various shortcomings have been well-documented with Ruben Amorim’s system still failing to get the best out of this squad.So how might the ex-Sporting boss look to tackle the next match against Fulham? Our latest episode of Tactics Exposed, in association with Betfair, will hopefully have the answers to all your questions.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhy is 3-4-3 not working?Amorim’s 3-4-3 system worked wonders at Sporting Lisbon, winning two Portuguese titles and many other accolades. So why is it yet to translate over to England?We took a range of questions from fans about Man Utd’s tactics ahead of their clash with FulhamThe simple answer to start with is that many of these players have never played the system before.Manuel Ugarte, Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt to a lesser extent are the only players familiar with the system, and the lack of specialists in various positions including central midfield and wing-backs are a huge issue.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSSo why does Amorim insist on playing 3-4-3? Well the idea is quite simple: Because the wing-backs provide overloads in all positions on the pitch.When defending, you have a back five, when in possession, you have a four-man midfield instead of two, and when attacking, you have a front five.Roy Keane slams Man Utd in angriest ever rant and has bust-up with Wright over BrunoBefore signing Patrick Dorgu, United lacked a specialist wing-back. Amad Diallo was tried out there before he was moved into the front three, Alejandro Garnacho did not work there, while Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui are not quick enough to excel.At Sporting the system worked so well because there was a lot of trust given to players.We should note this was often against sides who many would consider inferior opposition, which is not a luxury as readily extended into the Premier League.Ultimately, as Amorim has warned, it will take time.Players have been left isolated by moving out of their positionsAnother reason this system is failing is that players are moving out of position, leaving them overloaded instead of the opposition.For example, if a long ball is played into the right channel for Rasmus Hojlund to run on to – which prompts a wing-back, one of the tens and a midfielder to step up – when possession is conceded back to the opposition they end up being overloaded and exposed on the other side of the pitch.This happened five or six times against Ipswich, where Ugarte moved out to right wing-back to get the ball, but the wing-back was out wide, so he did not get the ball.Fulham will doubtless look to block the passing lane off which will then leave them outnumbered in trying to find passing solutions.This all comes from the simple fact United players are not being utilised properly when building up.Is Bruno Fernandes overrated?We looked at whether Fernandes is doing too much at Man UtdOur latest episode of Tactics Exposed, in association with Betfair, has given us the chance to directly answer some of your questions.And one of the most heavily debated stars in the Premier League is Bruno Fernandes, as seen with Roy Keane’s explosive argument with Ian Wright earlier this week. The raw numbers tell a story of Fernandes being the star man of Man Utd’s team, with six goals and seven assists in the Premier League and 23 goal contributions across 39 games in all competitions this season.However, as is always the case in football, you have to look a bit deeper to find the real answer, which can often have more than one truth.In one sense, the stats are completely right and you can’t fault his effort.But in his duty as club captain, Fernandes is actually taking on too much responsibility and is therefore disrupting Amorim’s system which is actually quite rigid with defined roles for a number of players.Fernandes has recently been the left-sided midfielder in the central pivot after moving back from one of the two attacking midfield roles. But that has created its own new problem.In the system, the central centre-back, two central midfielders and striker should generally remain in a set position.But Fernandes is suffering from something I will dub “Steven Gerrard syndrome”, where he is trying to do everything and putting the team off balance.While it means he gets on the ball a lot and has a heat map across the entire pitch, Fernandes’ effort ends up creating an overload which favours the opposition.Against Ipswich he would often move into the back three, therefore creating a four, which paired with Ugarte drifting out wide it ends up allowing the opposition to have many extra numbers in attacking areas.So how do you fix this issue? As we mentioned earlier, it comes down to trust.Most teams defend in a 4-4-2 shape, and if Fernandes remains disciplined by staying in his area, it can open passing lanes and create the overloads the Amorim system is designed to create.Of course there is the argument Fernandes is only doing too much because those around him are not pulling their weight. Again, this may be true, with many United players seemingly playing in a cowardly manner and lacking courage.Fernandes needs to learn to trust his team-mates more by handing them more responsibility, but at the same time they need to step up their game to get near the 30-year-old’s level.Rasmus Hojlund is not the answer, is he? More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Mason Greenwood’s sheltered family life abroad as ex Man United ace ‘ditches parties & gives up on England dream’

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      HE has wiped the slate clean after leaving Manchester for a new life abroad.And it appears that Mason Greenwood is enjoying his fresh start in France, where he is said to have put his party lifestyle behind him and become a “homebody”.Mason Greenwood and partner Harriet have just welcomed a second daughterCredit: FacebookGreenwood looks over the moon as baby Summer clings to himCredit: Instagram/hasrobsonMarseille bosses are protective over new signing GreenwoodCredit: AFPThe striker – who was accused of attempted rape, assault and coercive control in January 2022 – was sold last summer to Marseille in a deal that netted boyhood team Manchester United £23.3 million.And this week, it was revealed that the 23-year-old and partner Harriet Robson have just welcomed their second daughter in the French city.The couple have carved out a new life 700 miles away from Old Trafford, after Greenwood was moved on by United following pressure from domestic abuse campaigners when the abuse charges were dropped in February 2023.A source told The Sun Greenwood was never likely to return to a British club after the furore.read more Manchester UnitedThey said: “Mason should be Manchester United’s star striker but the reality is he seemingly has no way back.  “He got one cap for England and it’s unlikely he will ever add to that. “The scrutiny he faces in England would be a million times more than he’s had in France. For instance, he was once walking into a petrol station and someone called him a rapist and videoed it.“That doesn’t happen in Marseille where he’s most likely to be stopped and told what a great player he is.Most read in Football“He’s not being asked questions by the press and can focus on his football.”Bradford-born Greenwood was on loan to Spanish side Getafe for a season before his move to Marseille.Man Utd braced for Mason Greenwood lawsuit after Mendy successfully sued City over £11m unpaid wagesInstagram images show him and Harriet enjoying the simple life at home with their eldest daughter Summer and Greenwood looks every inch the doting dad, talking softly to her as a newborn, bottle-feeding and taking her for walks in a buggy.Before leaving Spain, the couple enjoyed a sunshine-soaked Mediterranean holiday and pictures show them relaxing on a private yacht, Greenwood’s arm draped around Harriet, who he has dated since the age of 16.Just before the move to France, he also enjoyed what looked like a solo trip to Tokyo where the £70,000-a-week player went on a shopping spree, buying Harriet an Yves Saint Laurent handbag and a pair of designer toddler shoes for Summer. Our source said Mason has been enjoying football abroad because it gave his family more anonymity, but he is still said to be slightly nervous about going out and about alone.They said: “When he went to Spain he wasn’t playing for a massive club like Real Madrid and what Mason loved was being able to do normal family things, like going out for meals or shopping with Harriet and not be recognised.“He is a lot happier now. His career is not going to be what he expected it to be, which is hard for a player like Mason, who knows how talented he is. Greenwood is a star at MarseilleCredit: AFPHe last year called Harriet the best mum in an Instagram postCredit: InstagramMason at the birth of his first daughterCredit: Instagram/hasrobson“He’s now having to assess what’s more important; does he play for the best team he can or does he just need to play and have a more stable, structured home life?“In France, he’s got good influences around him.”Manchester is a small city and you might wonder about whether the people who surrounded him there had his best interests at heart.“In Marseille he will be going out with teammates and not really hanging about with anyone else.”They are older, more mature, more sophisticated and appear more protective of him.”If they go out for a team meal, Mason isn’t likely to end up partying.”The couple announced Summer’s birth with a sweet imageCredit: Instagram/masongreenwoodSources say Greenwood is enjoying an element of anonymityCredit: Instagram/hasrobsonBaby Summer watches dad playCredit: Instagram/hasrobsonGreenwood had the world at his feet when he enjoyed his breakout season for United in 2019.He was flying high when, in January 2022, he was arrested for attempted rate, assault and coercive control. He was quickly dropped by sponsor Nike.Police charges against him were dropped a year later after a “key witness withdrew their involvement”, according to the Crown Prosecution Service.United flirted with the idea of bringing Greenwood back but, after pressure from domestic abuse campaigners, he was put out on loan.He’s happier and team mates are protectiveClub sourceIt wasn’t the first time Greenwood had been in hot water with the club.In September 2020 he and midfielder Phil Foden were sent home from England’s hotel in Iceland for breaking Covid-19 guidelines.The scandal saw the pair sneak two Icelandic girls into the England team hotel, which resulted in pictures of the Three Lions stars being leaked on social media.Greenwood was then accused of flouting restrictions again by throwing rowdy parties at a 13-bed Airbnb in Manchester.Since arriving in Marseille, he and model Harriet, who has worked with brands like Fashion Nova and Pretty Little Thing, are said to be enjoying the “simple life”.An insider this week said: “They are both delighted with the safe arrival of their second child. Mason is performing well on the pitch and then he comes home to Harriet and his children.Scandal-hit timelineHere’s how the Man United striker’s career unfolded Oct 2018: Signs his first professional contract with Man United.Sept 2020: Makes his senior international debut for England in Iceland but is sent home for breaking covid rules.Jan 2022: Arrested by Manchester cops after a woman accused him of a number of assaults via social media. She posts video and pictures on Instagram. He is suspended and dropped by Nike.Feb 2022: All charges against Greenwood are dropped after the Crown Prosecution Service says key witnesses withdrew their involvement and new material came to light.August 2023: He is loaned to Spanish club Getafe for the 2023-24 La Liga season.July 2024: Leaves Man United in a five-year deal with Marseille.“Life is simpler and they have less distractions, which is suiting the both of them.”Bosses at his new club have made it clear they support their new signing while dressing room sources say he is a “very polite and kind young man”.They added: “If he ever goes out, he is never alone. He is always a little worried and vigilant.”His move to Marseille caused controversy as some fans protested the move and city mayor Benoit Payan claimed he would bring “shame” to the club.Greenwood has previously said that he understood “people will think the worst” of him but his new team’s president Pablo Longoria says fans are being won over by his footballing.He told Spanish outlet Relevo: “His behaviour has been excellent since arriving… we are very proud to have Mason among us.”New manager Roberto De Zerbi said: “He’s a champion, an international level player.“I don’t know what happened (in the UK), I’m not concentrating on private lives.READ MORE SUN STORIES“When a player sings for the club I consider him my child.“Even if I can pull his ear in private, I will defend him publicly. My players are like my sons.” More

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      in Boxing

      Inside the toxic world of Misfits boxing…from OnlyFans star ‘choked unconscious’ to vile revenge porn to promote bouts

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      IT’S been at the centre of the controversial new era of boxing with online celebs stepping into the ring to fight anyone who is willing to say yes.But despite scandal after scandal, Misfits boxing attracts millions of fans the world over – and earns eye-watering figures for the fighters on the cards.October 2023’s fight between YouTuber KSI and Tommy Fury was one of the most watched boxing events of the yearCredit: ReutersLogan Paul’s partner Nina Agdal was subjected to misogynistic harassment by Paul’s opponent, ex-MMA fighter Dillon DanisCredit: Instagram / Nina AgdalEx-England footballer Wayne Bridge had to be pulled apart from KSI after the Misfits founder made a brutal John Terry jibeCredit: X formerly Twitter / @@MF_DAZNXSeriesFounded as a way of bringing ‘non-traditional’ fighters together in the ring – meaning YouTubers, TikTokers, and other internet stars – it’s divided sports fans, with some seeing it as having given boxing a new lease of life, while others think it’s made a mockery of the sport.But their taste for controversy and over-the-top hype has seen bouts marred by scandal, while questions have been raised over the dangers of putting inexperienced fighters in the ring.Build-ups to fights have even seen an OnlyFans star get choked unconscious and bitter rivalries that cross the line into harassment – with claims that revenge porn was used to psych out opponents. Yesterday, the spotlight was once again on the promotion company when it was announced that YouTuber KSI – who also founded Misfits – is set to fight former England footballer Wayne Bridge in a bout on the 29th March.Read More FeaturesComing face to face in the AO Arena in Manchester, KSI mocked Bridge over 2010 claims that Chelsea-teammate John Terry had an affair with Bridge’s ex-girlfriend Vanessa Perroncel – which both have since vehemently denied.“Wayne Bridge, aren’t you the guy that let John Terry smash your ex? That is what you are known for,” KSI said, leading to security stepping in to separate the pair.That same evening, boxer Anthony Taylor worried fans after collapsing unconscious, and needing oxygen, following a defeat against ex-UFC fighter Darren Till.And an earlier fight saw AfghanDan and Little T – grime artists from Blackpool who went viral in 2016 – step into the ring with AfghanDan receiving a dislocated shoulder.Most read in BoxingChoked for viewsSince being founded in 2022, Misfits has gone on to some of the most-viewed fights of recent years, many of which have involved KSI, and other celebrities such as Logan Paul and his brother Jake.But it has also been at the centre of plenty of scandals that many people fear is damaging the credibility of the sport.Misfits Boxing star speaks out after collapsing following loss to Darren TillIn October 2023, at the Misfits open workout being held in Manchester ahead of a fight between Dillon Danis and Logan Paul, Ella Brooke was conducting interviews when she put in a bizarre – and highly dangerous – request.She asked fighter Dillon Danis, to “choke her unconscious.” He held her neck in his arms until she was out cold – but after being shaken back to her senses she couldn’t hide her excitement.Viral Blackpool Grime rappers Little T and Afghan Dan met in the ring on SundayCredit: PAFootage from the Manchester event shows the moment Brooke allowed Danis to put her in a headlockCredit: SuppliedThe OnlyFans star then passes out, before claiming it had felt “better than drugs”Credit: Supplied“Oh my God, that is so much better than drugs,” she exclaimed.And this is far from the only scandal the pair have been at the centre of.Brooke, a law student turned OnlyFans creator, has come under fire for using boxing to promote her content – though she is laughing all the way to the bank, claiming that she earns at least £30,000 a month from selling adult videos.The 27-year old has also cultivated an intense rivalry with fellow OnlyFans star-turned boxer Astrid Wett, known for posing in football shirts – and not much else.”Revenge porn”Danis, meanwhile, was at the heart of an even more toxic feud that saw him launch vicious attacks on his rival’s fiancee ahead of his boxing debut with Misfits.Brazilian jiu-jitsuist and MMA fighter Danis had long been in a quarrel with YouTuber Jake Paul and brother Logan – who was slammed for posting a video which appeared to show the dead body of a suicide victim.“The Pauls and I have had beef since forever,” he posted on social media when announcing his fight against Logan.I just got another absolute nuke pic of Nina this one might be worse than the other oneDillon Danis“Logan ridiculed me for years, attacked Floyd (Mayweather’s) wife, filmed a deceased person, scammed millions. KSI went after my mom, the list goes on,” he added.The more cynical among boxing fans would see it as little more than savvy marketing, with both Logan and Dillon all too aware of how much exposure a public feud could bring them.And it wasn’t long before the rivalry turned from a friendly one to genuine nastiness in the lead up to their 2023 fight.Only a few days before meeting in the ring in Manchester, during an attempt at a face off, Logan threw a bottle at Dillon, getting a microphone to the head in return.But what really shocked fans was the way in which Dillon dragged Logan’s fiancee, Nina Agdal, into their spat. After the announcement of their fight, Danis launched a hateful social media offensive against Agdal in an effort to mess with his opponent’s head.The MMA fighter posted pictures of Agdal with Leonardo DiCaprio, with whom she had a year-long relationship that ended in 2017, as well as bizarre photoshopped pictures of her with other men, including Brad Pitt.One fake image even had him cuddling up to his rival’s girl. The build up to Paul and Danis’ fight saw the pair engage in a bitter rivalry that for many crossed the lineCredit: AlamyThe harassment prompted the model to take out a restraining order against DanisCredit: InstagramDanis was disqualified after six rounds after the fight descended into a mass-brawlCredit: AlamyBut despite already having harassed her with hundreds of hateful comments and memes, Danis stooped even lower and claimed he had explicit photos of the former Victoria’s Secret Model.“I just got another absolute nuke pic of Nina this one might be worse than the other one. Wow this girl is actually wild,” Danis posted.“Logan, on a man level you need to call this marriage off now.”He then went on to put up am X-rated video of Nina in which she is talking about how she is craving sex.In response to Danis’s harassment of her, Nina filed a lawsuit for “revenge porn”, claiming that his posts had caused her to “suffer humiliation, emotional distress, and reputational harm.”Agdal took out a restraining order against Danis, alleging that he’d posted a sexually explicit photograph of her that was “obtained without consent.”The lawsuit is ongoing, with lawyers alleging that Danis had damaged his own phone to prevent evidence from being collected.Dillon Danis shared this picture of himself with Nina, which was branded fakeCredit: TwitterA fan shared the original picture which shows him with another womanCredit: TwitterKSI’S Business EmpireKSI is one of Britain’s richest YouTubers, estimated to be worth just under £20million according to Forbes.And much of his wealth was made long before moving into boxing.Born Olajide “JJ” Olatunji in 1999, he attended Berkhamsted School in Hertfordshire before becoming a founding member of YouTube group the Sidemen, known for their football and comedy videos.Since creating his channel in 2009, KSI has racked up nearly six billion views and has over 25 million subscribers.KSI also branched out into rapping, with his debut EP Keep Up topping the UK R&B albums chart in 2016. He has since gone on to achieve fourteen top 40 singles.In 2022, he launched Prime energy drink in collaboration with Logan Paul.Following social media hype around its release, some people paid up to £100 for a single bottle, while others sold it at inflated prices on places such as eBay.He also founded Lunchly along with Paul and MrBeast, a kids lunch kit company.The YouTuber is also known for his flashy car collection, which has included a Lamborghini Aventador, a Porsche 718 Boxster, and Rolls-Royce Wraith.He also revealed in a 2020 interview that he owns over ten properties around England with a combined worth of over £10million.Ring brawlCommentators and boxing fans condemned the behaviour, while the fight itself also descended into farce.After six rounds of prancing around, tensions boiled over with both fighters’ security teams becoming entangled in a brawl and Danis putting Paul in a headlock. Danis was disqualified.The toxic feuds are all part of the game to the fans – and one of the reasons many tune in.“Danis got this fight because he’s great at being a troll, he quadrupled his following because he’s great at being a troll,” commented MMA reporter Aaron Bronster.“He got sued because he’s great at being a troll, he showed up and made this a terrible match because he’s great at being a troll.”Founder vs FuryThe match between Danis and Paul was the under card for a bout between Misfits’s founder, KSI, and the boxer and Love Island contestant Tommy Fury.KSI was criticised for using homophobic slurs against Tommy Fury’s dad, John FuryCredit: GettyKSI’s meeting with the ex-Love Islander was derided by former world champion Carl FrochCredit: GettyAt least 1.3 million people tuned in to watch the October 2023 fightCredit: ReutersAt the face-off ahead of the much-anticipated fight, a clip of Fury’s father, John Fury, headbutting a Perspex screen in cartoon-like rage went viral. KSI also spat at the senior Fury from a balcony and launched a volley of homophobic slurs against him.Fury eventually emerged victorious by unanimous decision but the pair were soon met with criticism from long-time professionals of the sport.“It’s a load of crap as far as I’m concerned,” former world champion Carl Froch commented shortly after.“They’re not qualified, they’re not experienced or good enough to be in a boxing ring,” he added.You like pork, right?Alex SteinBut while the criticism from the more traditional parts of the boxing world was harsh, no one could deny how successful the event was for Misfits.More than 1.3 million pay-per-views were bought ahead of the fight, potentially generating at least £25million in revenue.And that’s on top of the 21,000 spectators who crammed into Manchester’s AO Area to see the pair battle it out.Racist abuseOther press conferences and fights have also been marred by controversy.In July 2023, right-wing Youtube personality Alex Stein had been due to fight Muslim Youtuber MoDeen.However, Stein ended up being removed from the undercard after throwing hotdogs at his opponents during a press conference and saying, “You like pork, right?”MoDeen, a Muslim TikToker, was subject to racist abuse at Misfits press conferenceCredit: Twitter / Alex SteinRight-wing YouTuber Alex Stein carried out the stunt, which saw him get dropped from the fight cardCredit: Twitter / @StokeyyG2Controversial social media star HSTikkyTokky clashed with his opponent in a hotel lobby after his fight was called offCredit: tiktok/hsboxertokkyMoDeen then had to be held back by security, with the press conference falling apart in the chaos.Other participants in Misfits boxing matches include the social media personality Harrison Sullivan, better known by his username of HSTikkytokky.The controversial influencer was due to face court after allegedly crashing his £220k McLaren, but fled the country.He had been set to get into the ring with opponent Masai Warrior in Qatar, although their fight was called off at the last minute.But this didn’t stop the pair from clashing in the lobby of a hotel in the Gulf state.Masai later commented: “You cancelled the fight, you don’t want to get into the ring, but you’re OK to push and shove in front of your girl. Don’t make no sense to me, Harrison.”Sullivan also spat at and attempted to punch a fan minutes after his victory at another Misfits event in August.READ MORE SUN STORIESA mass-brawl also broke out among the crowd for a Misfits event in London in May of last year.Chairs were thrown at the event at The Troxy before security stepped in and separated those involved. More

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      in Soccer

      Tragic Sven-Goran Erikkson faced string of disasters that saw him lose MILLIONS & conned by fake football billionaire

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      HE was one of the highest-paid football managers of all time, raking in a cool £25million during his five-year reign as England boss. But Sven-Goran Eriksson’s glittering career was scarred by a string of financial disasters that left him penniless.Sven Goran-Eriksson died £8.6million in debtCredit: AP:Associated PressHe was led to believe he was helming a Man City-style transformation at Notts CountyCredit: The TimesSven and the club were led on by convicted fraudster Russell KingCredit: Action ImagesThe Swede, who tragically passed away from pancreatic cancer last August, lost millions over the years before a desperate bid to save his fortune. Despite his footballing success, Swedish documents revealed Eriksson died £8.6 million (88 million kronor) in debt.His lawyer and close friend Anders Runebjer blamed his tax debts on poor investment decisions – including a failed film scheme in 2006.The 76-year-old was best known for managing England from 2001 to 2006 and made history as the first foreign manager to lead the team at two World Cups.Read More on SvenDuring his 36-year career, Eriksson had a number of lucrative roles and received around £7million in pay-offs alone from England, Manchester City – where he spent a season in charge – and Mexico.He also coached IFK Goteborg, Benfica, Roma, Fiorentina, Sampdoria, Lazio and Leicester City, winning 17 major trophies.But away from the pitch, Sven fell victim to several embarrassing scams and financial disasters.From fake billionaires to an unscrupulous adviser, we take a look at scams which fleeced the late manager…Most read in FootballFootball club scamThe most bizarre chapter of Eriksson’s football career began in June 2009 when he was first contacted by convicted fraudster Russell King, a former financier from Jersey.He claimed to represent a wealthy group of investors from the Middle East and Europe, reaching out through a third party.Emotional David Beckham looks close to tears at Sven-Goran Eriksson’s coffin is led out of church following funeral service in SwedenHe and an associate wined and dined Eriksson at the Dorchester Hotel and gave a “very clever, very convincing” pitch about taking over Notts County, billing it as a Manchester City-style transformation.”I met these two guys, and they were very enthusiastic about what they had to say,” Eriksson recalled. “They told me they had already bought the club and had big plans to take it to the Premier League. “They promised improvements to the players, the training ground, the academy, and even said they would fix the stadium and buy feeder clubs.”Unbeknown to Sven, King had served a two-year sentence for fraud in the early 1990s for trying to claim £600,000 in insurance by falsely reporting his Aston Martin stolen.King managed to seize control of nearly 50 per cent of a London investment bank by falsely claiming he was overseeing the sovereign wealth of the Bahraini royal family.He then used a bank guarantee from the same institution to take control of Notts County, only for it to later be revealed as worthless.The conman lured Eriksson in with promises of £10million in shares and Eriksson became director.They promised improvements to the players, the training ground, the academy, and even said they would fix the stadium and buy feeder clubsSven Goran ErikssonKing wanted Eriksson’s star power to legitimise his schemes, even dragging him to North Korea to seal a deal with the rogue state’s officials. King claimed one of his companies was worth a jaw-dropping $2trillion (£1.27 trillion) after supposedly securing rights to mine the country’s gold, oil, and iron ore in exchange for £1billion from Bahrain.But the promised billions never materialised. King fled to Bahrain, leaving millions in debts and Notts County unable to pay basic bills.Extradited years later, he was jailed in 2019 for 25 counts of fraud and larceny but released from Jersey prison in 2021.England football manager Sven Goran Eriksson and his ex-partner Nancy Dell’OlioCredit: PAEriksson later admitted his embarrassment, recalling how he was taken in by King’s outlandish promises. “They used my name, of course they did,” he said. “At the time, we couldn’t even pay the milk bill at Notts County. It was a big, big mistake.”’Hated’ financial advisorAfter the embarrassing Notts County saga, the football icon later claimed he had lost £10 million thanks to the actions of his trusted financial adviser, Samir Khan.In a bombshell interview with the Telegraph in 2013, Sven said he had been forced to put his £4 million Swedish “dream house” on the market. “I never hate anyone in my life,” he said. “I don’t think I have many enemies but I hate Samir Khan because you can’t treat people like he has done.He’s probably the only person on earth I hate. I feel let down, angry and disappointed because I trusted this man for many, many yearsSven Goran Eriksson “He’s probably the only person on earth I hate. I feel let down, angry and disappointed because I trusted this man for many, many years.”The pair met in 2004, and by 2007, Khan had control of Sven’s affairs. Two years later, the Swede grew concerned and asked Deloitte to run checks on Khan.In 2010, Eriksson’s lawyers obtained a worldwide freezing order in the High Court against Khan and launched legal proceedings, claiming that Khan made negligent investments and pocketed “secret profits”.Khan denied the claims before being declared bankrupt. Eriksson said: “I gave him too much freedom. I gave him all the authority he needed to take care of my economy.”Film scheme backfiredSven admits he made some bad financial decisionsCredit: AP:Associated PressAs Sven scrambled to recover cash, he also fell victim to the failed Eclipse Film investment scheme.The series of film financing schemes, conceived by HSBC, claimed they would make money by buying the rights to blockbuster Disney movies and leasing them back to studios.Investors were told they could defer their tax bills and spread the payments out over a number of years.But HMRC became concerned the £2.2 billion scheme was being used to avoid tax, leading them to take Eclipse to the Supreme Court in 2016.Investors were handed accelerated payment notices the following year – reversing the tax benefits they had previously enjoyed and demanding they pay interest on the multi-million pound sums.The Supreme Court crushed any hopes for the scheme in 2012 by refusing to challenge HMRC’s ruling.Investors, including Sven, were told they wouldn’t receive the £117m in tax relief promised, leaving them liable for massive bills.Home sold at ‘bargain’ priceSven’s mansion near Sunne, SwedenCredit: AlamySven is seen in the swimming pool of his his mansionCredit: AlamyWhile managing the Three Lions, Sven bought a grand 19th-century lakeside manor in Sunne, Sweden, for £420,000. The sprawling 835-square-metre home features numerous reception rooms, a library, and an expansive poolhouse, which includes a saltwater pool, spa, sauna, jacuzzi, gym, and relaxation space. Outside, the property boasts a tennis court, a jetty, a sandy cove, and waterside gazebos. Sotheby’s agents noted Sven had added his personal touch to both the interior and exterior. READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, when it came to selling the estate after Sven’s death last year, the financial gods were unkind once again.Despite its value peaking at £3 million, by last year its value had plummeted by nearly half, selling for a “bargain” price of £1.8 million.Nancy paid tribute to her ex after his death, saying ‘you will be missed’Credit: Instagram @nancydellolioThe late football manager with his partner Yaniseth Alcides during the Sports Gala 2024Credit: RexSven’s partner and David Beckham at his funeral last yearCredit: RexEriksson with Roberto ManciniCredit: GettySVEN’S AMAZING CAREER1977 – Having played football professionally in Sweden, Sven-Goran Eriksson kicked off his managerial career with Swedish side Degerfors.2000 – He guided Lazio to the Serie A title to become one of the hottest coaches in the world.2001 – Following the resignation of Kevin Keegan, he was appointed England’s next permanent manager in February 2001. He oversaw 66 games with the Three Lions, winning 39 and losing just 12.2002 – Eriksson led England to the 2002 World Cup with the likes of Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes and David Beckham in his squad. The Three Lions were knocked out in the quarter-finals.2004 – The legendary manager also led the Three Lions to Euro 2004, but they were knocked out of the quarter-finals to Portugal.2006 – Eriksson led England to another World Cup, his final tournament in charge, before resigning.2007 – The Swede took charge of Manchester City a year after leaving the England job and oversaw 45 games.2010 – Having coached Mexico, Ivory Coast and Notts County after parting ways with Man City, Erikson took charge of Leicester and saved them from relegation. Following his time with the Foxes he went on to manage China and Philippines.2024 – In January 2024, Eriksson announced he had been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. Three months later, he fulfilled a lifelong dream of managing Liverpool in a legends match at Anfield, before passing away in August. More

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      Inside Pep Guardiola’s £100m empire as Man City boss splits from wife – from £2.7m pad to ‘wrecked’ £460k car collection

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      FOOTBALL boss Pep Guardiola is used to dominating the football world, guiding Manchester City to trophy after trophy.But sadly, things off the pitch are not going so smoothly, following his reported split from wife Cristina Serra, who he has been with for more than 30 years.Pep’s wife Cristina has been at his side throughout his football careerCredit: GettyThe couple and their children have enjoyed lavish holidays over the yearsPep announced a sponsorship deal with Puma which is likely to have landed him a seven-figure pay dayCredit: PA:Press AssociationPep owns multiple luxury properties, has had numerous brand sponsorship deals and earns an eye-watering £19.7million a year from the Blues.But it remains to be seen how the couple, who wed in 2014, might split his fortune if they divorce, amid reports from Spain that they are still “cordial, stable and friendly”.It has been reported by Barcelona-based newspaper Sport that the pair came to a decision to separate in December while they were together in Pep’s homeland.Manchester City declined to comment about the split rumours.READ MORE CELEB FEATURESPep is said to have met his wife when he was just 18 years old, while Cristina was 16 and working in her family’s clothes store called Serra Claret.Both certainly have a good eye for the finer things in life, with Pep admitting it is his wife who often picks his pricey match-day outfits.Here we look at Guardiola’s gigantic £100million fortune, which includes a restaurant, luxury cars and a designer wardrobe that rivals most models.Stylish footballPep started off his career playing for Barcelona from the age of just 17, eventually debuting for their first team in 1990.Most read in FootballIt didn’t take long for him to be snapped up by fashion designers and by 18 he was modelling for designer Antonio Miro – which led to him meeting his wife.It was reported that every item from the Catalonian designer sold out just a few days after the event. Pep Guardiola reveals Kyle Walker has asked to LEAVE Man City with England defender set or £400K-A-WEEK Saudi transferPep has guided Manchester City to huge successCredit: PAHe’s credited his wife with his style choices, which have always drawn attentionCredit: GettyIt is, perhaps, unsurprising that Pep has become known for his style at the Etihad Stadium, often sporting turtle-necks and branded jumpers instead of always going for stuffy suits. Among his outfits is his signature grey ‘hoodigan’, which was made by Theresa May’s favourite Italian designer Herno and reportedly costs £1,200.But’s he not always the one behind these iconic outfits.He said: “My wife is the best in the world at many things, but especially in fashion. So she says normally to me, don’t wear this or wear that, so I follow her.“I am smart enough to know that when people are much, much better than me, follow their advice, and hers is really good.”After retiring from his playing career, Pep made his name as a superstar manager at Barcelona and Bayern Munich before signing in 2016 for Manchester City, netting himself a mega pay-day.While at Bayern Munich, he was reported to be bringing in £15million per year, netting him a cool £45million for the three years at the Bundesliga club.Pep is currently paid £19.7million a year, in a newly-extended deal that expires in 2026.Pulling powerHe collaborated with Nissan… despite having dented many of his own carsCredit: NissanPep was an ambassador for the Qatar World CupCredit: AFPPep reportedly started on £12million back in 2016, and has topped his income up on the side with some smart sponsorship deals.His most eye-popping brand partnership is with Puma, who are also the kit sponsor for Manchester City, in a deal worth £650million.Guardiola is thought to have netted seven figures for the personal collaboration.Previous brand deals have included Nissan, clothing brand Gore-Tex and – more controversially – being an ambassador for the Qatar World Cup in 2022.Home gameHe lives in a £2.7million pad in Manchester, which is also part of a hotelCredit: MENThrough the flat he has access to an 18m poolCredit: instagramSince moving to Manchester back in 2016, Pep has made the city a home and splashed out on a truly lavish flat.He spent £2.7million on the luxury home in City Suites, which is said to be in the “most desirable address” in Salford.It isn’t hard for him to embrace his passion for fashion as it’s next to designer shops as well as high-end restaurants and wine bars. The unusual residence – considering most footballers in the area opt for a sprawling mansion in leafy Cheshire – is in a private section of a 16-floor hotel.The property gives Pep access to an 18-metre indoor pool, an exquisite spa and sauna facilities as well as a 24-hour gym. Other benefits included two private parking spots, a 24-hour concierge team, dry-cleaning services and access to a private executive lounge.  It’s not his only home. Pep also snapped up an 8,000-square-foot mansion in Pedarlbes, the most expensive area in Barcelona, for a mere £8.55million back in 2021.The gorgeous white house has breathtaking views of the city thanks to its position in the foothills of Sant Pere Màrtir mountain.It features a spacious living area, a high-end kitchen, a large private swimming pool and balconies across two storeys to take advantage of the picturesque landscape.While he has two luxurious homes, he hasn’t shied away from renting pricy places too. During a one-year sabbatical in 2012, he splashed out on a fancy New York flat that set him back £19,500-per-month and overlooked Central Park.The Upper West Side abode used to be the home of other celebs including X-Files actor David Duchovny and Barbra Streisand.It boasted four bedrooms, bathrooms, and a study where Pep was said to have learned and practised German before taking over at Bayern Munich.Food for thoughtHe is one of three investors in Tast Catala in ManchesterCredit: Instagram/@tastcatalaIt is currently helmed by a chef whose restaurants have won four Michelin starsCredit: Instagram/@tastcatalaAnd it’s not just homes that Pep’s acquired over the years.He is a co-owner of Tast Catala in Manchester. The eatery opened its doors in 2018 and now has chef Paco Perez – whose restaurants have four Michelin stars between them – at the helm creating the menus. The acclaimed establishment focuses on bringing a taste of the Costa Brava to Manchester and can host up to 120 diners.While it won’t break the bank to dine there, it’s certainly not cheap, with mains costing more than £20. Pep’s also invested in another passion of his: wine.It was reported in 2021 that he had forked out £200,000 on a Spanish vineyard’s finest vintage bottles and reportedly drinks a glass or two after football matches.Friends told The Daily Star that he spent as much as £500,000 on fancy reds including the very best Riojas, prized Priorat and Ribera del Duero labels.A source said: “His main interest is that of a collector of fine vintages, and he sees the value of them as investments… Not only does he enjoy a glass of wine, he really knows his stuff too.”Drive for successThe footie boss reportedly dented his pricey BentleyCredit: BentleyOutside of his property portfolio, Pep has invested in some rather expensive motors over the years. And while they’re said to lose money the second you drive them off, the football boss has certainly managed to lower the value even further with a series of bumps and scrapes.Since moving to Manchester in February 2016, Pep has damaged a series of cars collectively worth £460,000. They included a £200,000 silver Bentley, GTX700, a £150,000 Range Rover, an £80,000 black Mercedes GLE and a £30,000 Mini Cooper.A source said: “Pep is brilliant at many things, but driving doesn’t appear to be one of them, he has struggled with the roads in Manchester and had a couple of bumps.”Pep’s Manchester City recordAfter joining Manchester City in February 2016, Pep had his first season without winning a trophy since he went into club management.The team’s form declined in the second half of the season despite a promising start.Things started to look up in the 2017-18 season after Pep identified the issues in defence the team had. Pep guided City to a record-breaking 100 points and the title, earning him a contract keeping him at the club until 2021.Under his guidance, Manchester City have won the Premier League five times and the Champions League once.They’ve also taken home a FIFA Club World Cup, one UEFA Super Cup, two FA Cup wins, four Carabao Cups and two FA Community Shields.He has also been voted Premier League Manager of the Season four times.This season they are currently sixth in the Premier League, so it doesn’t look like Pep will be adding another title to the cabinet.Authors Lu Martin and Pol Ballus wrote in the 2019 book Pep’s City: The Making Of A Superteam: “Today he’s behind the wheel of his black Mercedes.”He has a reputation from his Barcelona days of being a hapless driver and this is his fourth car he has owned since coming to Manchester.“His wing mirrors don’t survive for long and he’s also managed to fill a diesel Range Rover with petrol and mangle a silver Bentley.”Time is moneyHe owns a series of expensive watches, which double as an investmentCredit: SuppliedHis expensive tastes don’t end with cars and clothes – he also owns an array of pricey watches.Among them was a Richard Mille (RM) RM 27-01 Tourbillon Rafael Nadal, which he was pictured with on a golf course, that costs around £590,000 due to there only being ten in the world.Other ultra-expensive timepieces seen on his wrist include a £455,000 RM 022 Tourbillon Aerodyne, a £75,000 RM 010 ‘Manchester City’ and the RM 004 All Gray, which costs more than £150,000.READ MORE SUN STORIESLast year Pep was seen wearing a RM 67-02 watch – they typically cost £228,000 but his timepiece was a United Arab Emirates edition, which is not for sale.He has also been seen sporting a £55,000 Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Chronograph 5905P and a £12,500 Rolex Cellini. More

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      Sick world of ‘football trafficking’ where desperate kids are shipped to UK like Man United star… then sold into sex

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      SMILING for the cameras, Amad Diallo looked delighted this week as he signed a stunning new deal with Manchester United.The dazzling prodigy – originally from the Ivory Coast – has fulfilled the dream of so many African youngsters of a lucrative career at one of the world’s richest clubs.Amad Diallo is now Manchester United’s biggest rising star after being trafficked to Europe aged just 12Credit: GettyThe football ace at Boca Barco in ItalyCredit: Boca BarcoThousands of African youngsters share the same dream, only to find they have been sold a lie by sick traffickersCredit: GettyIt’s a remarkable turnaround in fortunes for the gifted youngster whose footballing journey began with him being trafficked to Europe as a 12-year-old.His dramatic equalising goal against arch-rivals Liverpool last Sunday follows his brilliantly executed volley to seal victory in the Manchester derby.His story will now be one of riches and, if he can help revive slumbering giant United, glory too.Yet, for thousands of other African youngsters, the promises of trials at clubs like United, Real Madrid, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain made by shysters claiming to be agents are a sick con.READ MORE FEATURESThese ‘agents’ demand thousands in upfront payments which often amount to the life-savings of a player’s family.The trials never materialise. The ‘agents’ disappear with the cash and the teenagers are abandoned, leaving them at risk of being sexually exploited or left destitute.A few years ago a young lad turned up at the reception at Tottenham’s old White Hart Lane ground saying he’d come from overseas for his trial with the club.The youngster had been conned, there was no trial. Spurs’ safeguarding procedures kicked in and the police and local authorities were contacted.Most read in FootballCharity Foot Solidaire has estimated that as many as 15,000 teenage footballers are shipped out of West African countries every year under false pretences.Former Watford midfielder Al Bangura has told how attempts were made to force him into the sex trade after he was trafficked into the UK.Amad runs the show again but Rashford is lucky to stay on the pitch and Onana has night to forgetFleeing his native Sierra Leone after elders tried to make him follow in the footsteps of his late father and become the leader of a voodoo cult, he made for neighbouring Guinea aged just 14.There a Frenchman promised to help him secure his dream of bringing him to the UK to become a Premier League footballer.Bangura revealed: “I didn’t know he had another different intention – to get me into the sex trade.”On arriving in the UK, he says he was taken to premises where he met men who hadn’t come to discuss his football career. “All of a sudden I saw two or three guys come around me, trying to rape me and make me do stuff,” he remembered.”Because I was young and I was small, I just started screaming. They probably thought I knew what I was there for – obviously I know what I came over here for, I was here to play football.”I was just crying and proper screaming and I tried to make my way out – I was cold, I was crying, I was shaking, I didn’t know what to do, I was all over the place.”I made my way outside. I didn’t know where to start, I thought it was the end of my life.”Al Bangura opened up about how he was almost led into the sex tradeCredit: GettyWatford fans protest over a Home Office ruling that Bangura should return to Sierra Leone in 2007. The ruling was eventually overturnedCredit: Getty Images – GettyBangura managed to escape and seek asylum. He was spotted by a talent scout and joined Watford when he was 16 and later awarded a work permit based on his footballing abilities.The youngster played for the Hornets in the Premier League and also played for Brighton, Blackpool, Forest Green Rovers and Coventry City.Bangura, now 36, has worked with the Premier League and charities to raise awareness on trafficking.”I think there’s loads of vulnerable kids in Africa who want to achieve what I’ve achieved in my life,” he said.”There’s loads of kids who might not even tell their parents, or their parents might use their last money to make sure they come over here to play football and they end up doing something else.”It’s important for me, having been through what I’ve been through in my life, for me to say I’ve been through that, I’ve survived, but what about the young kids coming up, will they survive?“Are they going to be able to cope with that? So we really need to find a way to stop all of that.”It’s quite emotional to talk about it now, I’m happy I’ve got over it, but it’s sad for me.”Crooked agents Dr Serhat Yilmaz – a Lecturer in Sports Law at Loughborough University – describes football trafficking of children as “a dark form of modern slavery”.Ramshackle football academies have sprung up on dustbowl pitches across West Africa with youngsters chasing the dream of a lucrative contract with a top European team.Crooked agents wheedle cash out of families after promising child players a trial at a footballing giant.Instead many are abandoned or enslaved on reaching Britain and other leading footballing nations.An investigator with the Spanish National Police says the number of trafficking cases is “sharply increasing” there.One youngster, 17-year-old Tidiane, originally from Conakry, Guinea, believed his dream of playing professional football in Spain had come true.Scouted while playing in his homeland, his family raised cash to pay a smuggler who promised a place in a Barcelona academy.“I was brought to Spain in March 2023 with documents saying that I had come on a school exchange trip, along with several other Guineans my age,” he revealed.The youngsters were told that they would be supported by an academy while continuing to go to school.Football trafficking is ‘a dark form of modern slavery’, says an expertCredit: GettyTidiane added: “After 15 days, we still hadn’t started school or football training.“They didn’t tell us anything, and after a month and a half, we were asked to pay again, even though it hadn’t been planned.“We were lost, so we fled late one night while everyone was sleeping.”With no money and his ID card confiscated by his smuggler, Tidiane was reduced to scavenging for food and sleeping in parks for five months.In October 2023, he was rescued by the Caritas charity who are helping him restart his schooling.The teenager said: “My story is far too common in Spain, many of us end up in the clutches of ill-intentioned people who take advantage of youth and their dreams.”International governing body FIFA’s Article 19 – written in 2003 – forbids clubs from signing international players below the age of 18.Since then, amid football’s scramble for new young talent, agents, players and clubs have been trying to break it.Article 19 has a clause allowing a club to sign a player under the age of 18 if it can be proved the child’s family was moving to that country for “reasons other than football”.It means job opportunities for the child’s parents can suddenly emerge in the city of the club that is interested in signing the youngster.Diallo’s journeyManchester United star Amad Diallo managed to leave his Ivory Coast homeland and, aged 12, and join an Italian club.His footballing journey – well before arriving at Old Trafford – left him a pawn in the sometimes murky world of signing young African talent.Born in Abidjan, the Ivory Coast’s capital in 2002, his precocious talent suggested he had the ability to follow countrymen Didier Drogba, Yaya Toure and Gervinho to stardom in Europe.In 2014, the youngster – then known as Amad Diallo Traore – joined minnows ASD Boca Barco not far from Parma. His brother Hamed Junior Traore, also a gifted footballer, would join him.The pair were able to make a new life in Italy under the family reunification system as their parents were Italian residents.My story is far too common in Spain, many of us end up in the clutches of ill-intentioned people who take advantage of youth and their dreams.TidaneYouth coach Denis Cerlini would later tell the BBC: “We didn’t discover Amad, but rather he just came to us. It was a great stroke of luck.”The brilliant youngster and his brother were noticed by Giovanni Galli, the ex AC Milan goalkeeper who played for Italy at the 1986 World Cup, who was working for an Italian third division club.Galli invited the brothers for a trial, remembering: “I quickly saw they were simply too good for us. Amad played with bigger boys and drove them insane with his dribbling.”Instead, Galli tipped off Serie A club Atalanta who signed Diallo in 2015. His brother signed for Empoli.Then in 2017 agent and talent scout Giovanni Damiano Drago was arrested as part of Operation Baby Elephant, an investigation into the trafficking of footballers.In a plea bargain, Drago gave information to police about the immigration status of Diallo and other young players. It left the scout with a suspended sentence of one year and 10 months.Former AC Milan icon Giovanni Galli noticed Amad and his brotherCredit: GettyA young Amad poses with former Manchester United star Paul PogbaFive people were arrested, accused of smuggling Diallo, his brother and three other young footballers into Italy.DNA tests by investigators proved Diallo and his ‘brother’ – now on Bournemouth’s books – were not related to the purported parents. It was all an elaborate sham.Incredibly, the scam led to Diallo – who was a child when he was trafficked – being fined £42,000 by the Italia FA. Hamed Junior Traore received a fine for the same amount.Diallo dropped his fake surname Traore on his 18th birthday.Dreams & nightmaresIn January 2021 Diallo joined Manchester United for £18.7million from Atalanta. He has been described as the “jewel in the crown” of new manager Ruben Amorim’s team.In West Africa, thousands of young footballers will be admiring the now 22-year-old’s progress, dreaming of their own lucrative career.Some, desperate for the riches European football can offer, take matters into their own hands.On the migration routes along the Mediterranean coast and in the camps of Calais and Dunkirk I’ve met many aspiring young footballers trying to make it to the UK by flimsy boat.Dr Ini-Obong Nkang, 32,  author of the book Football Trafficking: A Legal Analysis of the Trade of African Minors – says the key to preventing trafficking is to boost African leagues.Dr Nkang told The Sun: “Dig deep, and you’ll find South African players aren’t being trafficked because South Africa has the most developed league on the continent.“They can see for themselves that, ‘OK, if I stay here and join an academy, I can still make a future for myself’.“In West Africa – where the bulk of trafficked players come from, the leagues are not up to scratch. That has to change.”READ MORE SUN STORIESDiallo’s goals against Liverpool and Manchester City made him the toast of Old Trafford.For other African youngsters dreaming of football’s wealth and glory, their journey to Europe at the hands of traffickers brings only misery.Amad has been described as the “jewel in the crown” of new manager Ruben Amorim’s teamCredit: GettyHe joined Manchester United for £18.7m from Atalanta in 2018Credit: EPA More

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      Inside football’s most explosive divorces…from star’s £10m payout to bitter split over twins fathered by another man

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      FOOTBALLERS’ love lives are notoriously messy – with numerous reports of playing away.And that can lead to explosive and VERY costly divorces. Kyle Walker, who shares four kids with Annie Kilner, is set for a courtroom showdown after she served him divorce papersCredit: BackGridIt comes after he fathered two kids with his on-off mistress Lauyn GoodmanCredit: GettyKyle was previously in a legal battle with Lauryn over child support paymentsCredit: PAKyle Walker’s bitter split from his wife, Annie Kilner, is the latest case shaking the sport.Annie finally filed for divorce earlier this year after their marriage was wracked by a series of scandals.In 2020, she agreed to stay with Kyle, 34, after it was revealed he had fathered a child with Lauryn Goodman during a brief affair and she stood by him during a bitter court battle which saw the Manchester City ace ordered pay a substantial amount.But, after it emerged that Kyle had fathered a second child with his on-off mistress, she is now preparing to battle it out in court for half of his staggering £27million fortune.READ MORE FEATURES But Kyle is far from alone in seeing his marriage end in explosive claims and courtroom showdowns over the players’ eye-watering wealth.’Not fair’Former Arsenal right-back Emmanuel Eboue, 41, had one of the most acrimonious divorces in football. Kyle Walker’s wife Annie Kilner files for divorce and gears up to fight for star’s £27m fortuneEmmanuel Eboue says he lost a fortune to his ex-wife after their bitter divorceCredit: TwitterThe former Arsenal star blamed a lack of education for his lossesCredit: TwitterDuring his seven-year stint in the Premier League, he built an enviable fortune but lost it all in a bitter split with his ex-wife, Aurelie Bertrand, in 2017.She was awarded all their assets in the divorce, including their two mansions and his fleet of luxury cars – and he later claimed he had to wash his clothes by hand as he couldn’t afford to use his washing machine.Most read in FootballIn 2017, he told the Sunday Mirror: “I can’t afford the money to continue to have any lawyer or barrister. I am in the house but I am scared.”Because I don’t know what time the police will come. Sometimes, I shut off the lights because I don’t want people to know that I am inside. “I suffered to buy my house, but I am now scared. I am not going to sell my clothes or sell what I have. I will fight until the end because it is not fair.”Emmanuel also claimed naivety was to blame for his losses, saying that he signed everything Aurelie asked him to without question.He added: “I look back and say ­’Emmanuel, you have been naive… why didn’t you think about that before?’ It is hard. Very, very hard.”The money I earned, I sent it to my wife for our children.”He claimed of the €8 million he earned playing with Galatasary in Turkey – between 2011 and 2015 – €7million was sent to his ex wife.Paternity blowAfter 12 years of marriage, Geremi filed for divorce after a DNA test revealed he was not the father of Laure’s kidsThe Cameroonian star says it left him in “emotional shock”Credit: AFPCameroonian footballer Geremi filed for divorce from his wife Laure in March after a bombshell that blew the marriage apart.The former Chelsea star, 45, claimed he was “psychologically damaged” after finding out the 16-year-old twins he raised as his own were actually fathered by her ex.In court documents seen in March, the midfielder claims that the children were born after she had a fling while they were still together. It read: “No children have been born from this union” and also slammed her “repeated lies”. It also said that Laure had destroyed the harmony” of their marriage “through her abject behaviour”.The twins were born in 2008 and Geremi revealed they were the motivation for the pair tying the knot four years later.The court filing in March this year said that the revelation had “caused him a huge emotional shock”. Love ratRyan Giggs and his wife battled it out after she tried to take a large chunk of his fortuneCredit: Getty – ContributorRyan had a long-term affair with his brother’s wife NatashaCredit: Dan Kennedy – The SunRyan Giggs’ wife Stacey filed for divorce in 2017, after ten years of marriage, over numerous infidelities, including an eight-year affair with his brother’s wife, Natasha.He also cheated on Stacey with former beauty queen and Big Brother contestant Imogen Thomas. As one of the highest-paid players, the former Manchester Utd star had amassed a £40million fortune and the bitter split looked set to end in an explosive courtroom battle over the cash.But in November 2017, it was announced that they had reached an agreement and the figures were kept under wraps.In a statement, their lawyers said: “The terms of the settlement are confidential, but both wished to express their sincere thanks to their respective legal teams.”They are pleased to leave this chapter of their lives as firm friends.”Mummy’s boyAchraf Hakimi’s divorce had a shocking and unexpected plot twistCredit: GettyMany wondered whether Achraf had always anticipated a divorce from his wifeCredit: GettyParis Saint-Germain player Achraf Hakimi’s divorce from his wife, Hiba Abouk, had a shocking plot twist that very few saw coming.Model and actress Hiba, who has two kids with the footballer, filed for divorce after he was accused of rape by French prosecutors in March 2023.During the court battle Hiba reportedly asked for half of Hakimi’s £18.4million fortune.But in a bizarre twist it was revealed that most of his assets were actually in his mother’s name and even his substantial salary, reportedly £170,000 a WEEK, was paid into his mother’s bank account.Legally, Hakimi owned very little in his own name, leaving his furious ex with limited claim to his wealth.The revelation led to speculation that Achraf had planned his financial arrangement in anticipation of the divorce.Timeline of Kyle Walker and Annie Kilner’s relationshipEarly years – Kyle and Annie first meet in Sheffield when she was 15 and he was 17Euro 2016 – Walker caught messaging Playboy model Carla HoweApril 2019 – Annie dumps Kyle after his alleged romps with reality TV star Laura BrownApril 2020 – Kyle allegedly hosts sex party with two escorts during covid-19 lockdownFebruary 2020 – Lauryn Goodman gives birth to Kairo, her son with WalkerNovember 2021 – Walker and Kilner marry in secretMarch 2023 – Lauryn announces her second pregnancySpring 2023 – Kyle allegedly flashes and kisses another woman in a Vodka Revolution bar in CheshireAugust 2023 – Lauryn gives birth to a daughterJanuary 2024 – Annie announces split from Kyle after two years of marriage. It emerges Kyle is the dad of Lauryn’s second child. Kyle begs for forgiveness in exclusive Sun interview. Lauryn brands him a ‘pathological narcissist’October 2024 – Annie files for divorceMessiest divorce The couple were hugely popular and seen as Italy’s answer to Posh and BecksCredit: GettyTheir 2005 wedding was a spectacle filmed for national TVCredit: GettyBefore their acrimonious split, they seemed happy and had three kids togetherCredit: RexFrancesco Totti and Ilary Blasi were branded Italy’s Posh and Becks after they married in 2005, on national TV, and went on to have three kids together.But their 2022 split, after 17 years of marriage, was one of the most sensational in the country’s history and things quickly got messy. It was revealed that Ilary had hired a private investigator after suspecting him of cheating.But Francesco, 48, also accused Ilary of infidelity, claiming she was the first one to betray their marriage. The AS Roma icon said: “It is not true that I was the first to betray.”I said I was not going to speak, and I did not, but I have read too many hoaxes in recent weeks. Some have even made my children suffer.”The divorce battle escalated over financial assets, as Totti accused his ex of running off with his expensive watch collection.In turn, he hid all her luxury handbags until she safely returned his belongings. In an interview, he said: “What was I supposed to do? I hid the bags, hoping for an exchange.”They also fought over their lavish home in Rome and custody of their three children. In November, Ilary claimed the Roma star left their eight-year-old home alone when he went away – an allegation he strongly refutes, saying she was being looked after by a ‘professional babysitter’.”The police came knocking on Totti’s door and a woman, allegedly a babysitter, opened the door,” says Italian journalist Daniele Fisichella.”It’s not clear whether it was actually a babysitter -Totti was away – or it was the concierge working at Totti’s residence. “If anyone wants to write a TV series, ‘The Totti’s’, that obviously could be part of it. It’s been going on for the last two years, to be fair… it seems that the end, it’s very far away.” The pair are still battling it out in court.Bankrupt star David James ended up paying his wife £3million in their divorceCredit: Getty – ContributorFor years, David James was one of the most recognisable faces in English football. The goalkeeper played for top clubs such as Liverpool, Manchester City, and West Ham. He is said to have been earning £50,000 a week while playing for Portsmouth.He has four children with ex-wife Tanya, but the couple split in 2005 when he left her for his childhood sweetheart, Amanda Salmon, who wooed him by sending X-rated images of herself in a G-string.Tanya late said she found out about the affair when she saw a text he received during her birthday meal which read: “I would love to have your warm body next to mine right now.”The sender came up on his phone under the name Corgi Cars as David tried to hide her identity.During their bitter divorce battle, Tanya claims the star went back on his word of paying their children’s school fees and only gave her a “paltry” amount to live on after he took care of the household bills.But after paying Tanya £3million in the divorce settlement, the 51-year-old’s huge empire came crashing down and in 2014 he declared himself bankrupt, despite the £20million he had made from his time as a footballer.He was forced to auction many of his valuables, including his football memorabilia. In his 2004 biography, former Liverpool teammate, Stan Collymore wrote about David: “If he had a new car and he pranged it, he would just go and buy a new car – so there were five cars parked in the drive.”If he bought a new pair of shoes and he scuffed them, he wouldn’t clean them. He would just chuck them in the spare room and buy a new pair.”Too much disposable income, I suppose. Too easy just to bin stuff. Too easy to spend money like you’re going to be earning that kind of money for the rest of your life.”Huge payoutThierry Henry ended up paying his ex-wife nearly £10million after they splitCredit: GettyClaire was devastated when he walked outCredit: GoffINF.comIn 2003, Arsenal legend Thierry Henry, 47, married Claire Merry. The couple welcomed their daughter, Tea, in 2005. However, after just four years of marriage, the French international announced he was leaving his wife, shortly before his transfer to Barcelona on a £130,000 a week contract.Claire was said to have been devastated when Henry walked out on their marriage amid rumours he had formed a “close friendship” with a Spanish actress.In court, Claire cited “unreasonable behaviour” as grounds for divorce. Thierry did not dispute the claim.In September 2007, a judge granted the divorce in a one-minute hearing at the High Court’s Principal Registry. Claire requested £10million and was reportedly awarded close to the figure, although Henry kept the £6million Hampstead mansion the couple shared. He has since demolished it and built a larger home in its place.He married Bosnian model Andrea Rajacic in 2011 and they have three children together.Locker room gossipThomas Tuchel and Sisi married in 2009 but ended their marriage 13 years laterCredit: GettyThe couple share two daughters together, Emma and KimCredit: GettyEngland’s new manager, Thomas Tuchel, 51, married his ex-wife Sisi while he worked in Germany in 2009. The couple eventually had two daughters, Emma and Kim. She quit her profession as a journalist to raise their young children.When he was offered a role as Chelsea manager, she moved to the UK in August 2021, and they bought a home near the club’s training ground in Surrey. But after 13 years together, their marriage broke down. Court documents show that Sisi had cited irreconcilable differences for their split. READ MORE SUN STORIESThree months after the divorce was finalised, he was seen out and about with his new girlfriend, Natalie Guerriero, 37, and it was revealed they have been dating since May 2022 – just a month after the split. According to the New York Post, his complicated love life and “erratic” behaviour had become a talking point in the Chelsea locker room. Shortly after, he was fired as the Blues’ boss.The breakdown of their marriage became a topic of conversation in the Chelsea locker roomCredit: Getty More

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      Tyson Fury’s warrior rival Usyk was taught to fight with a knife by soldier dad & is haunted by missing final moments

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      IT’S the highly anticipated rematch that will see British boxing legend Tyson Fury attempt to unify the heavyweight titles.Six months after the Gypsy King’s first-ever defeat to Oleksandr Usyk in May, the pair will face each other for a second showdown tomorrow night. Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury will face off for a second time on December 21Credit: GettyTheir last bout in May ended with Usyk as the victorCredit: GettyOleksandr Usyk pictured as a baby with soldier dad and older sister ViktoriaCredit: East2WestUkrainian heavyweight Usyk, who is the first to hold all the major heavyweight titles in 24 years, carries with him the fighting spirit of his dead soldier dad and a boxer pal killed by the Russians.His father, also called Oleksandr, was twice injured while serving the Soviet army in Afghanistan.He taught his son to duel with a blade, something that could have come in useful when the boxer joined Ukraine’s territorial defence battalion after Russia launched an all-out invasion of his country two years ago.The city where Usyk, 37, was born and grew up is under the control of Vladimir Putin’s invading forces.Read More in The SunAnd his boxer friend Oleksiy Dzhunkivskyi was shot dead by the dictator’s troops when they entered Irpin, close to the capital Kyiv, in 2022.Usyk, nicknamed The Cat, wanted to continue defending his nation, but was urged by soldiers to win for his country with his fists instead.The boxer’s dedication to his sport cost him his chance to say goodbye to his father properly – because he didn’t get back in time from winning a gold medal at the London Olympic Games in 2012 before he died.Talking about his late father, he said:  “Everything I have now is thanks to him. He put a lot in me, he taught me about the priorities in life, which are family, sports and education. Most read in Boxing“He was a military man. My mother hated it when he taught me how to fight with a knife.” She’d shout ‘Sasha, he’ll grow up to be a criminal’.”Tyson Fury warned there’s ‘nothing he can do to stop what’s gonna happen’ in rematch with ‘bogeyman’ Oleksandr UsykParents Oleksandr and Nadezhda were proud of his medalsCredit: East2WestThe boxer with mum NadezhdaCredit: East2WestBrush with deathUsyk was born in Simferopol in Crimea where his security guard dad had met his mum Nadezhda, who worked in construction.His father did not talk much about his time serving with the Soviet army, which had invaded Afghanistan in 1979.But Usyk recalled: “I saw the consequences of this post-war condition and what happened to him. He often had headaches, he had very high blood pressure.“I remember that until the last he had some nightmares in which he called out the names of his comrades who were killed.”Usyk senior was injured twice while fighting for the USSR, which controlled by Ukraine until 1991.His son, who was born under Communist rule in 1987, first had a passion for football.The family moved to a village called Rybotyn in the north of Ukraine where he nearly died from pneumonia as a child.Usyk said: “It was really bad. The doctor even told my mother that I might not survive.” Mum Nadezhda revealed: “As a child, Sasha was a very sick child.”Then my son spent a whole year in the Chernihiv hospital.”My heart was aching and the doctors were afraid to make any predictions for the future.”Oleksandr Usyk was born under Communist ruleCredit: instagram/usykaa/Usyk took up boxing at 15Credit: instagram/@usykaaPunch on pitchThe family returned to Simferopol when he was a teenager, still at school.His father was a harsh disciplinarian, who would give him a “slap on the head” if his grades fell below C.“He raised me to be a man from childhood,” he said. “He forced me to wash socks and underwear, clean the room, and iron my trousers. He said that if I don’t learn this, if I don’t learn discipline, then I won’t succeed in life. “He said: ‘The way a man behaves in life, behind the wheel, with women, shows his true strength. If he can’t cope, if he’s dirty, neglected, and doesn’t know how to behave with women, then he’s not a real man’.”He’d recovered enough from his illness to play football for his school team – something that ended when he punched an opposition player during a match.Aged 15 he took up boxing instead – encouraged by his dad, an amateur boxer.My children are asking, ‘Daddy, why do they want to kill us?’ I don’t know how to answer thatOleksandr UsykHis swift reflexes and dedication led him to success in the ring, which impressed his childhood sweetheart Yekaterina, generally called Kateryna.She once admitted: “I didn’t consider him at all, except as a friend. He said ‘If I win the fight today, will you go somewhere with me tonight?’ I say: ‘Win, we’ll see there.” He won. And that’s it.”Usyk became a national hero when he picked up a gold medal at the Olympic Games in London in 2012 in the heavyweight division.It was a victory that was to be followed by tragedy – because his dad died a few days later back in Ukraine while Oleksandr was abroad.He remembered:  “He watched me become Olympic champion, but I didn’t make it back in time to show him the gold medal.”When I arrived he was already lying in the coffin.”I handed him the medal, put it in his dead hand and then left the room.”What was most difficult to cope with is that rather than heading home directly from London, Oleksandr had stopped off to collect a supercar, which delayed him going home.During an emotional interview with TNT he said: “I wanted to bring it with me and show him what a cool car I had. My mom called me at 3am and told me the news.”Usyk’s dad saw him win an Olympic gold but died before he saw his son againCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe boxer wept as he told the story on TNTCredit: X @boxingontntHe later revealed the emotional phone call to his dad after winning the gold, saying: “I called my dad and started screaming: ‘Yes! We won!’ My father told me: ‘I congratulate you, son. I love you’. “My father never told me he loved me. It remains in my memory as something special. I tell my children every day that I love them.”War in UkraineIn 2013 Usyk became a professional boxer, becoming a world champion in the cruiserweight division, which is just below heavyweight.A year later Russian-backed separatists took control of Crimea and parts of the east of the country.He was the undisputed champion when he defeated Brit Tony Bellew in 2018.After that Usyk stepped up to heavyweight, twice beating Anthony Joshua, the second time after Russia had launched an all-out invasion of Ukraine.That fight had been in doubt because The Cat wanted to defend his country rather than be a sportsman. He returned to his homeland in February 2022, armed himself with a rifle and joined the territorial defence force.He later recalled the night bombs began to rain down on his house in Bucha, on February 24, 2022 – his daughter Yelizaveta’s birthday.He said: “My children are asking: ‘Daddy, why do they want to kill us?’ I don’t know how to answer that.”A month after signing up to fight he was persuaded to go on training for the bout with Brit Joshua.Instead, he is providing financial support for the rebuilding of his heavily bombed homeland.In his first bout, it was reported that Fury had to agree to give £1million of his reported £115m fight fee to the reconstruction of Ukraine in order for the contest to go ahead. Usyk is funding the rebuilding of a property in Irpin where one of his friends was killed by advancing Russians who seized the city in February 2022. It was recaptured by Ukrainian forces on March 28 of the same year. He said: “In this house, there was a boxing gym of my good friend. He and I were in the national team, we went to boxing competitions together. “Oleksiy Dzhunkivskyi was shot by Russian soldiers right in this hall.”World champ Oleksandr Usyk after beating Tony Bellew in 2018Credit: PA:Press AssociationThe fighter (centre, in black) joined the Kyiv Territorial Defence in Ukraine in 2022Credit: Refer to CaptionUsyk and Yekaterina have three kidsCredit: instagram/@usykaaEeyore toy Usyk’s wife and three children, Kyrylo, Mykhalio and Yelizaveta, live in the capital, Kyiv.Unlike Fury’s wife Paris, who has appeared in reality shows with her husband, Kateryna stays out of the limelight.Usyk often speaks about how much he loves her and their children.Sometimes he can be seen clutching a cuddly Eeyore toy which was given to him by his daughter after the Russian invasion separated them.Usyk carries the Eeyore toy given to him by his daughterCredit: Instagram/@usykaaOleksandr Usyk with his daughterCredit: instagram/@usykaaThe dedicated, incredibly fit pugilist has been getting up at 4.45am every day to get in shape for the biggest bout of his career.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd before he walks out to the roaring crowd for a second time on Saturday, the spirit of his late father could be with him.Usyk said, with tears in his eyes: “Sometimes he comes to me the day before the fight. Yes, sometimes he comes the day before the fight and smiles.” More