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      Man City plan £50m transfer swoop for LaLiga star and Euros winner – six months after he snubbed Liverpool move

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      MANCHESTER CITY are planning a £50.3million January swoop for Martin Zubimendi — six months after he turned his back on Liverpool.The 25-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder was on Anfield’s summer hitlist  and was close to sealing a deal before a U-turn meant he stayed put.Martin Zubimendi has emerged as a transfer target for Man City in JanuaryCredit: GettySpain’s Euros winner also insisted last month he wanted to remain at boyhood club Sociedad, saying: “The best solution is staying. “I want to grow and develop here.”But sources insist Zubimendi has had a change of heart and is keen to play in the Premier League after all. And that has put City on high alert.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTheir failure to cope with the long-term absence of crocked Ballon d’Or winner Rodri continued with last night’s 2-1 defeat at Brighton — their fourth loss in a row. And Zubimendi — who came on for Rodri at half-time in Spain’s 2-1 Euros final win over England — would be an ideal replacement.Rodri, 28, is out for the season after rupturing his ACL during September’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal.The pair have played together for their nation, giving City the potential of a mouthwatering defensive midfield partnership when Rodri returns.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe release clause in Zubimendi’s contract would not be a problem, although manager Pep Guardiola was initially not keen on making any major moves in the January market.City’s injury pile-up and dismal form could signal a rethink, as Guardiola is equally reluctant to pile too much pressure on his younger players.Top 10 best paid managers in world as sacked Roberto Mancini is knocked off No1 spotOne potential stumbling block could be ongoing uncertainty about the Spaniard’s own future.There is still no sign of a definite decision over his plans beyond the summer. More

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      Wolves lining up £20million transfer for Watford Euro 2024 star to help rescue them from Prem relegation

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      WOLVES will make Watford’s Georgian star Giorgi Chakvetadze a top target in January as they seek a Premier League saviour.Gary O’Neil’s men need new attacking inspiration and lively Chakvetadze, 25, has been on top form this season.Wolves are eyeing a January move for Watford midfielder Giorgi ChakvetadzeCredit: RexScouts watched the midfielder against Leeds on Tuesday and he is short-listed as a buy if the Molineux club can wheel and deal in the window.Wolves have been sellers recently but a purchase may save their top-flight skins.Watford would want up to £20million for a player who signed a fresh five-year deal only a month ago, however, and other Prem clubs have an eye on Chakvetadze.The Georgian international initially joined the Hornets on loan from Gent last summer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHis loan move was then made permanent in February for around £2million.As well as penning a new deal, he has scored once and provided two assists in 12 Championship appearances this term.Meanwhile, the midfield ace also has nine goals in 33 caps for Georgia.He made his international debut in 2018 aged just 18 and was part of the Crusaders’ Euro 2024 squad.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWilly Sagnol’s side were one of the surprise packages of the tournament in Germany during the summer.Chakvetadze played in all four of their matches as they reached the last 16, losing to eventual winners Spain.I watched Cristiano Ronaldo play for Al-Nassr, the atmosphere and standard had me shocked… but he didn’t seem botheredHis arrival would boost Wolves’ survival hopes after a difficult start to the season.O’Neil’s side are currently 19th following Saturday’s dramatic 2-2 draw at Brighton.However, they have yet to win any of their opening nine Premier League fixtures. More

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      Gareth Southgate set for knighthood for his England heroics after he is CLEARED over controversial tax scheme

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      GARETH Southgate has been cleared over a controversial tax scheme — paving the way for a knighthood in the New Year Honours List.The former England boss, who got the men’s side to two Euro finals, was under Whitehall scrutiny over film investment deals.Former England boss Gareth Southgate is set for a knighthood after being cleared over a controversial tax schemeCredit: GettySouthgate with Prince William ahead of the 2024 Euro finalCredit: AFPA spokesman for Southgate said he was a ‘proud Englishman’ who had ‘always paid his taxes’Credit: GettyHe still needs official approval but a source said: “Now he’s cleared the checks, people are talking about him becoming ‘Sir Gareth’.”It would see him follow in the footsteps of Three Lions greats Sir Alf Ramsey and Sir Bobby Robson.Tax bosses have cleared the way by ruling he did not break rules by investing in a controversial film investment scheme.The decision came after intensive talks between HM Revenue & Customs executives and Whitehall mandarins in recent weeks.READ MORE ON GARETH SOUTHGATESouthgate, 54, stepped down as manager in July after steering the Three Lions to two Euro finals and a World Cup semi-final in eight years.A source said: “Gareth deserves the knighthood and people in high places want to honour him.“He was a tremendous servant to England and came close to leading the team to their first silverware since 1966.“Gareth has also been a great role model and is a hugely respected public figure.”Most read in FootballGareth Southgate drops biggest hint yet over next job amid Man Utd links after stepping down as England managerPlans to knight him if England had won the 2020 Euro final against Italy were reportedly shelved as he had been placed at “amber” on a “tax risk list”.Ministers are traditionally extremely cautious when putting together honours lists.Ex-England captain David Beckham’s tax issues are said to have been a factor in him not receiving a knighthood.A source said: “Now it seems he has cleared all the checks, and people at Westminster are talking about him becoming ‘Sir Gareth’.”Southgate — in charge of England for 102 matches, and pictured with FA patron Prince William before this year’s final against Spain — was among stars to plough cash into Ingenious Media, which invested in fledgling films.But the deals were probed by the taxman over fears that the scheme was simply an artificial way of reducing tax bills.Last year, a spokesman for Southgate said he was a “proud Englishman” who had “always paid his taxes and complied with HMRC throughout his career”.The dad of two is also understood to have put aside the disputed funds “on account” as soon as HMRC challenged the scheme.READ MORE SUN STORIESLast night we approached an agent for Southgate. A Cabinet Office spokesman said: “It would be inappropriate to comment on potential honours recipients.”Stars stumped upGARETH Southgate was among hundreds of high-profile clients to plough cash into Ingenious MediaDavid Beckham, Gary Lineker and Wayne Rooney were other sports stars to have invested with the firm between 2002 and 2010.Film-maker Guy Ritchie, actor Sacha Baron Cohen and Ant and Dec also did so.All were advised that their millions would be boosting Britain’s film industry in a tax-efficient way.Ingenious did fund 60 movies, including Avatar and Life of Pi , but was also found by HMRC to have run tax-avoidance schemes.More than 400 investors ultimately found themselves embroiled in a £434million tax avoidance dispute.And following a tax tribunal ruling, HMRC demanded that investors with Ingenious repaid them.None of those involved was guilty of any wrongdoing.Many of the stars ultimately settled financially with HMRC, while others took legal action against advisers.Southgate’s highs and lows as England bossGARETH Southgate took charge of 102 games for England before quitting in the aftermath of the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.But what were the best – and worst matches – from the popular gaffer’s eight-year reign before that devastating Sunday night in Berlin? Here we take a look.THE HIGHS:Colombia 1-1 England (3-4 on pens,) 2018 World CupThis was the night that long-suffering supporters finally started to believe that it was coming home.Despite conceding a late equaliser, England held their nerve to advance to the quarter final of the World Cup 2018 on penalties.It was our first shootout victory for 22 years.Spain 2-3 England, 2018 Nations LeagueFollowing on from the World Cup, England won in Spain for the first time in 31 years with a brilliant Uefa Nations League victory.Southgate’s boys stunned the Seville crowd into silence with a thrilling performance that saw them lead 3-0 at the break thanks to a Raheem Sterling brace and Marcus Rashford.Although the hosts scored two after the break, the way the Three Lions tore La Roja apart excited every fan.England 2-1 Denmark, Euro 2020 semi-finalSouthgate led England to their first major final in 55 years as they beat Denmark after extra-time in the Euro 2020 semi-final.Having fallen behind after half an hour, the Three Lions battled back to send it to extra-time courtesy of an own goal.Then it was captain Kane who converted a rebound after Kasper Schmeichel originally saved his penalty in extra-time to win it.England 3-0 Sengal, 2022 World Cup last 16England had already blown Iran and Wales, 6-2 and 3-0 respectively, away in the World Cup 2022 group stages before they breezed past Senegal.The free-scoring Three Lions recorded another big win to set-up a mouthwatering quarter-final against France – what could go wrong?Italy 1-2 England, Euro qualifiers, 2023On a night when Harry Kane became England’s all-time top scorer, the Three Lions recorded a first away win over Italy since 1961.It was the first game since their 2022 World Cup exit, and it ensured a perfect start to their Euro 2022 qualifying campaign.England 2-1 Holland, Euro 2024 sem-finalThe nation doubted Southgate’s men in the semis of Euro 2024, but they responded with a barnstorming display.Xavi Simons opened the scoring for the Dutch but Harry Kane’s penalty drew us level.And Ollie Watkins slotted in a brilliant winner in injury time to see the Three Lions into their second successive Euros final.AND THE LOWS….Croatia 2-1 England, World Cup semi-final, 2018Having led England to a first World Cup semi-final since 1990, Southgate men made a dream start as Kieran Trippier put them ahead in the early exchanges.But Ivan Perisic equalised as the Croats began to take control.Some of Southgate’s substitutions were then questioned after his team were beaten in extra-time, although many gave him the benefit of the doubt as he returned a hero.Italy 1-1 England (3-2 pens) Euro 2020 finalWill probably never get a better chance to have secured a trophy for the Three Lions than this final of the last European Championship.Luke Shaw gave us the lead after just seconds, but just like against Croatia three years earlier, we sat back and let our rivals back into it.Leonardo Bonucci duly equalised in the second half and the game eventually went to penalties.The unfortunate Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka were all brought on to take a spot-kick, but the brave trio all missed as the Azzurri broke our hearts to take the prize.England 0-4 Hungary, Nations League 2023A year on from the Euros and it was utter embarrassment for Southgate in this Nations League game at Molineux.It was our biggest home defeat since 1928 and the result led to England being relegated from the top group of the Nations League and back to one that contained the Republic of Ireland, Finland and Greece.England 1-2 France, World Cup 2022 quarter-finalsAnother case of what could have been.Having been free-scoring throughout Qatar 2022, many fancied us to go all the way at the World Cup despite taking on the holders in the quarters.We fought back from going behind to level through Kane and many believe that France were then there for the taking had Southgate deployed a more attacking approach.Instead, they seemed content with what they had until Olivier Giroud pounced 12 minutes from time to win it.But there was still one more twist of the knife for England as the usually-reliable Kane skied a late penalty over the bar uncharacteristically as we crashed out. 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      Man Utd star Rasmus Hojlund slammed as ‘rubbish’ and ‘poor’ by Ben Foster for injuring team-mate in training

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      MANCHESTER UNITED ace Rasmus Hojlund was dubbed “rubbish” and “poor” by ex-England goalkeeper Ben Foster after breaking a team-mate’s tooth during training.The incident took place last summer before Euro 2024 when Hojlund, 21, linked up with Denmark to prepare for the tournament in Germany.Man Utd ace Rasmus Hojlund knocked a team-mate’s tooth out during trainingCredit: GettyLeicester goalkeeper Mads Hermansen was injured by Hojlund during training with DenmarkCredit: RexEx-Man Utd keeper Ben Foster branded Hojlund ‘rubbish’ and ‘poor’ after the incidentCredit: AlamyThe Danish national team organised an “optional” set-piece training that would see them working on corner-kicks with Leicester goalkeeper Mads Hermansen, 24, between the sticks.A cross was whipped in from the corner and Hermansen was set to pick the ball up in the air.However, Hojlund got a little overzealous as he went for the ball with full force and accidentally elbowed the keeper in the mouth.That led to the Leicester ace losing a tooth just before the European Championship.Read More on Man UtdHermansen discussed the incident in Foster’s Fozcast podcast: “You know as a goalkeeper sometimes when you have set-piece practice. It’s like, ‘Are we going 100 per cent? Are we just a bit easy?'”So we were with the national team just before the Euros, it was optional training, you could come in and train if you want. “So let’s do some corners. I go: ‘Keepers!’ And he just comes in with everything, elbow straight to my tooth.”Foster, 41, was not at all impressed with Hojlund after hearing the story and didn’t hold back on his assessment as he insisted the striker should have “taken it easy” considering it was just a training session.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe ex-United goalkeeper responded: “Cheers Rasmus, appreciate that. That’s rubbish that. I’m not having that, it’s poor.”When you’re doing it in a bit of practice set-piece thing, you’ve got to take it easy. You can’t go full blooded like that.”Rasmus Hojlund hailed for opening up on acne issue as Man Utd striker shows before and after pics after laser treatmentHowever, Hermansen defended Hojlund and insisted he is a real “professional”.The Danish shot stopper replied: “He is that kind of guy and I love that about him.”He’s giving everything, always. He’s just got an exceptional way of being a professional.” More

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      Thomas Tuchel to SURPASS Southgate at first attempt as supercomputer predicts how England will do at World Cup 2026

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      A SUPERCOMPUTER has predicted how England will get on at the 2026 World Cup under the management of new boss Thomas Tuchel.Tuchel has penned an 18-month contract with the Three Lions that will see him take charge of the nation for the 2026 tournament.Thomas Tuchel has been unveiled as the new England managerCredit: GettyA supercomputer has tipped Tuchel to surpass Gareth Southgate on his first attempt at a World CupCredit: GettyThe former Chelsea and Bayern Munich gaffer will have the hopes of the nation on his back as he looks to go one better than Gareth Southgate’s efforts at the Euros last summer.And he seems pretty calm about that pressure, insisting he “doesn’t feel” the weight of expectation – even in the hot-seat for the England national team.That may be because he’s confident that he will be able to build upon the foundations laid by Southgate over the past eight years.And a World Cup simulation on a supercomputer has the exact same idea, predicting that Tuchel will surpass Southgate’s best ever World Cup effort on his first attempt.READ MORE ON ENGLANDThe whizzes behind SimWorldCup have suggested that England will manage a THIRD PLACE finish at the 2026 World Cup in North America.Their simulation sees Tuchel’s men breezing through the group stages and pushing all the way to the semi-final before suffering heartbreak to a familiar foe – Spain.A 1-0 defeat to the Spaniards in the semi-final would set up a third-place play-off against Uruguay – a match which England are predicted to win 1-0 themselves.That would be one step better than Southgate managed during his first tournament in the 2018 World Cup.Most read in FootballGareth Southgate led England to a fourth-placed finish at the 2018 World CupCredit: ReutersThe Three Lions bravely bowed out to Croatia in the semi-finalCredit: AFP or licensorsANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England jobFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSouthgate’s brave lions managed to reach the semi-finals in Russia, where they were knocked out by Croatia in extra-time.But the former England manager didn’t manage to get the better of Belgium in the third place play-off, ultimately taking fourth in his debut tournament.England interviewed ten candidates before appointing Thomas Tuchel, admits FA chief in German’s first press conferenceOf course, Southgate went on to reach two European Championship finals in 2021 and 2024 as well.Tuchel appears to have been brought in by the FA with the goal of securing World Cup glory in 2026 and a third place finish may not be enough to get him an extension on his 18-month deal.However, the supercomputer’s prediction did see the German pulling off some impressive victories throughout the tournament.The Three Lions topped their group with three wins from three over South Korea, Paraguay and South Africa.While their knockout efforts included wins over Panama, host nation the USA and Belgium.And Tuchel’s men are in line for some attractive football if the simulation is to be correct, as England netted 17 times and conceded just three across the supercomputer’s predictions. READ MORE SUN STORIESIn the remainder of the tournament the supercomputer predicted that Argentina would win their second World Cup on the bounce – defeating Spain 1-0 in the final.While home nations Wales and Scotland both made it out of their groups before being knocked out in the last-32 to Belgium and France respectively. Here’s how the tournament knockouts were predicted by the supercomputerEngland World Cup 2026 supercomputer predictionsHere’s a look at how every England game was predicted by the supercomputer…Group stageEngland 3 Paraguay 0England 2 South Korea 0South Africa 0 England 4Round of 32England 2 Panama 1Last 16USA 0 England 3Quarter-finalBelgium 1 England 2Semi-finalSpain 1 England 0Third place play-offUruguay 0 England 1 More

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      Watch Romania U21s’ ‘disrespectfully glorious’ team goal to qualify for Euros as fans ask ‘is this Brazil?’

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      ROMANIA’S Under-21 side left fans in disbelief with a “disrespectfully glorious” goal.The nation were taking on Switzerland during a Euro U21 qualification match, the winner of which would seal qualification to the tournament next year.Ianis Stoica rounded off a brilliant Romania Under-21 team goalCredit: EPARomania won the game 3-1 and secured their spot at Euro 2025Credit: EPADaniel Pancu’s side got off to a flying start after Ianis Stoica scored after 16 minutes.A red card for Vladislav Blanuta in the 29th minute threatened to undo that, but those fears were soon placated as Stoica, 21, netted again ten minutes before the break.However, it was the remarkable nature of the goal that left fans in awe.After Louis Munteanu won the ball back, Octavian Popescu picked up the loose ball on the left wing.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe then dribbled to the touchline before playing a one-two with 22-year-old Munteanu.With two defenders closing him down, Popescu, 21, then chipped the ball over the pair.Munteanu controlled the ball with his head before volleying the ball down the wing for his team-mate who had made a move.Popescu then got the ball back, beat his marker at the byline to then cut the ball back to team-mate Constantin Grameni.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe 21-year-old then back-heeled the ball to Munteanu, who then threaded a pass towards Stoica just outside of the six-yard area.He then rifled a shot into the top corner of the net to out his nation 2-0 ahead and complete the stunning sequence.Watch fan’s incredible goal in half-time competition that saw him win life-changing jackpotReacting on social media, one fan said: “Well that’s just disrespectfully glorious.”A second said: “Is this Brazil?”A third added: “That is team football!! Wonderful to watch.”Another said: “PlayStation.”A fifth said: “Am I watching at an eFootball action in real life?”Switzerland managed to rally after the break and halve the deficit through Albian Hajdari.Although just three minutes later Umit Akdag scored a third goal to give Romania some safety.Three red cards were shown throughout the game, with Pancu and a substitute from the team being sent to the stands.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe result saw Romania top Group E of the Euro 2025 qualifying campaign.However, in defeat Switzerland were eliminated as they dropped to third place as Finland recorded a win over Montenegro to climb into second. More

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      Thomas Tuchel AGREES to become England manager with ex-Chelsea boss expected to be hired THIS WEEK

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      THOMAS TUCHEL has AGREED to take charge of England.The FA have been searching for a permanent successor for Gareth Southgate after the 54-year-old quit the role following a heartbreaking Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain in July.Thomas Tuchel has reportedly agreed to take charge of EnglandCredit: GettyThe German is set to replace Gareth Southgate as the new Three Lions gafferFA CEO Mark Bullingham had some big names on his shortlist of candidates to replace SouthgateBut they’ve decided to appoint the former Chelsea manager as the nation’s 20th bossCredit: AFPFA bigwig Mark Bullingham had former Chelsea manager Tuchel high on his list of candidates to replace the recently departed Southgate.Talks for the out-of-work German to take charge of the Three Lions began earlier this week.And SunSport understands the former Bayern Munich gaffer has now AGREED a deal with the Football Association.The 51-year-old is set to be announced as the nation’s 20th manager IMMINENTLY.READ MORE ON TUCHELAnd he is set to take home a cool £5MILLION A YEAR as Three Lions chief.It’s a drastic pay cut, however, in comparison to the £10m-a-year deal he was on during his time in charge of Chelsea – who he managed for 20 months before being sacked in September 2022.However, this does not mean that Lee Carsley will be leaving his interim role immediately.He is expected to continue in his role until after the Nations League fixtures against Greece and the Republic of Ireland in November.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTuchel – who has been out of work since leaving Bayern at the end of last season – hashed out a lucrative deal with the FA following a breakneck speed conclusion to talks.It’s understood he’s relishing the prospect of coaching the talented players now available to him.Inside Thomas Tuchel’s crazy lifeANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England jobTuchel is set to become only England’s THIRD-EVER foreign manager behind the late Sven Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello.But he seemingly wasn’t the FA’s first-choice candidate to succeed Southgate in the Wembley hotseat.The FA reportedly made overtures to secure the services of Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola BEFORE the start of the season.SunSport understands the out-of-work Graham Potter and current Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe were also on the FA’s shortlist.But they ultimately decided not to pursue either man in favour of the vastly experienced Tuchel.Carsley was also in contention to land the gig but sensationally ruled himself out of the running last week.Tuchel was on course to return to management in England’s top flight before agreeing to take charge of the national team.Manchester United held talks with the veteran manager in the summer about replacing the under-pressure Erik ten Hag.Tuchel is best known to England fans for his stint managing Chelsea, who he was in charge of for just over a season and a half.Southgate vs Tuchel records comparedTHOMAS TUCHELAugsburg II 2007-2008P34 W 20 D8 L6 Win percentage: 58.82%Mainz 05 2009-2014P184 W72 D46 L66 Win percentage: 39.13%Borussia Dortmund 2015-2017P107 W67 D23 L17 Win percentage: 62.62%Honours: DFB Pokal Paris Saint Germain 2018-2020P127 W95 D13 L16 Win percentage: 74.8%Honours: Ligue 1 X2, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, Trophee des Champions x2Chelsea 2021-2022P100 W60 D24 L16 Win percentage: 60%Honours: Champions League, Super Cup, Club World CupBayern Munich 2023-2024P61 W37 D8 L16 Win percentage: 60.66%Honours: BundesligaGARETH SOUTHGATEMiddlesbrough 2006-2009P151 W54 D43 Win percentage: 35.76%England U21 2013-2016P37 W27 D5 L5 Win percentage: 72.97%Honours: Toulon tournamentEngland 2016-PresentP102 W61 D24 L17 Win percentage: 59.8%He guided the West Londoners to European glory in May 2021, pipping Manchester City to the Champions League trophy.He followed that up by winning Uefa’s Super and Club World Cups.Tuchel steered the Chelsea ship through tumultuous waters after former owner Roman Abramovich was forced to sell the club in May 2022.The billionaire was forced to sell up after the UK Government froze his assets as part of their sanctions on Russia following their illegal invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.But he was given his marching orders by new owner Todd Boehly the following September after a poor start to the 2022/2023 season.Tuchel was out of work for six months before he took charge of Bayern, whom he guided to the 22/23 Bundesliga title.Thomas Tuchel managed Chelsea for just over a season and a half and guided them to Champions League gloryCredit: GETTYHe was most recently in charge of German giants Bayern MunichCredit: APTuchel will likely be joined in London by his girlfriend Natalie MaxCredit: REXTuchel started dating Natalie following his separation from his ex-wife of 13 years, SissiCredit: GETTYIt was announced he’d leave the Allianz Arena in February after his troops fell eight points behind last season’s Bundesliga winners Bayer Leverkusen.But he didn’t end up departing the club until the end of the season.Tuchel will likely base himself in London once he officially takes charge of the Three Lions.He will be joined by his long-term girlfriend Natalie Guerriero Max, 37.The loved-up pair have been dating since the summer of 2022.READ MORE SUN STORIESTuchel found love with the Brazilian following his separation from his ex-wife, Sissi.The pair, who were with one another for 13 years, have two children together.Who has Tuchel coached?Here is a list of the England stars that have already worked with Thomas Tuchel…Harry Kane – Bayern MunichEric Dier – Bayern MunichMason Mount – ChelseaReece James – ChelseaBen Chilwell – ChelseaCallum Hudson-Odoi – ChelseaRuben Loftus-Cheek – ChelseaRaheem Sterling – ChelseaRoss Barkley – ChelseaTammy Abraham – ChelseaConor Gallagher – Chelsea More

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      England ‘contact Pep Guardiola about becoming next manager with Man City boss to make decision in weeks’

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      PEP GUARDIOLA has sensationally been sounded out over the vacant England job, it’s been claimed.The Football Association are on the lookout for a permanent successor for Gareth Southgate, who left the role in July after the Three Lions’ heartbreaking Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.The FA have approached Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola about the vacant England jobCredit: PAGareth Southgate resigned as England manager in July following yet more Euros final heartacheCredit: GETTYLee Carsley is in temporary charge of the Three LionsCredit: PAFA bigwig Mark Bullingham is heading up the search for Southgate’s successorCredit: PAManchester City boss Guardiola is understood to be on the FA’s shortlist of candidates to replace the recently departed Southgate.SunSport understands Eddie Howe and the out-of-work Graham Potter and Thomas Tuchel are also on the FA’s list.And it’s claimed they’ve made overtures to appoint Spaniard Guardiola as the national team’s new gaffer.That’s according to The Times, who claims the FA made “informal contact” with Guardiola’s representatives over the role earlier this season.READ MORE ON ENGLANDFA chiefs are said to see the 53-year-old as the “standout” candidate to take charge of the team, who are under the temporary leadership of Lee Carsley.Guardiola, however, has yet to respond to the FA’s attempts to gauge his interest in becoming only the 20th man to manage England.The future of the former Barcelona boss – who guided City to an unprecedented FOURTH-STRAIGHT Premier League title last season – is currently up in the air.His existing contract with City expires at the end of the season and he’s yet to commit his future to the champions.Most read in FootballGuardiola did, however, suggest in the summer that he could pen a NEW contract at the Etihad.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSEngland player ratings vs FinlandENGLAND secured a commanding 3-1 win over Finland following their horror show at home to GreeceHere’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay assessed the Three Lions’ stars performances.Dean Henderson – 6Only his second cap after long-time No1 Jordan Pickford was dropped. Not a lot to do, but pretty assured when he was called into action, including a smart, first-half stop to repel a Benjamin Kallman strike – even if the Finn was later flagged offside. Could do little to prevent Finland’s goal.Kyle Walker – 6After the calamity against Greece, it was no surprise to see Lee Carsley turn to his most experienced defender. Now just nine caps shy of a century, Walker was solid. Could have had an assist late on but his cushioned down header was poor.John Stones – 6England’s more conventional system meant the defence was far less exposed – though Carsley’s attacking approach did still see the Finns create chances. Stones made a good early block to deny Kallman after Angel Gomes gave the ball away.Marc Guehi – 6Our best defender in the Euros group stages, Guehi was back in here with Levi Colwill dropping out. Pretty assured for a player who by his own admission has not started the season particularly well for his club.Trent Alexander-Arnold – 7We saw him in midfield at the Euros, and here the Liverpool right-back was shunted to left-back. Looked vulnerable defensively at times but who cares when he produces such quality on the ball – epitomised by his terrific free-kick to kill off this game.Angel Gomes – 8The big success story of the Carsley era, however long it lasts, has been bringing Gomes into the fold. He created Jack Grealish’s opener with a beautiful, flicked-pass round the corner and was excellent in possession – barring one sloppy early pass.Declan Rice – 7Looked far more comfortable with Gomes playing in behind him, as opposed to the one-man defensive operation he was forced to put up against the Greeks. Looked proud as punch after stroking home England’s third from Watkins’ cross.Cole Palmer – 5Played in a more familiar wide right position compared to his central-midfield experiment against Greece. Yet it reduced him to a peripheral figure, adding more questions than answers as to where best to deploy him, Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden.Jude Bellingham – 6The Real Madrid superstar played off Harry Kane and had the occasional, exciting link-up with Grealish, but this was not one of his more memorable games overall.Jack Grealish – 8No doubt will be hoping Carsley does get the job full-time as his fellow Brummie seems to appreciate his talents. His composed finish was his second goal in three games under Carsley – doubling his overall haul from 39 caps.Harry Kane – 6Cap 101 for the captain but not one he will remember particularly fondly. He offered the presence the team lacked against Greece when they played with no striker, but did not get much of a sniff in front of goal.SubsNoni Madueke (for Palmer, 69) – 7This game was made for him to make an impact off the bench and he almost teed up Watkins after one fine run but the Finns cleared.Ollie Watkins (for Kane, 69) – 7Low cross for Rice’s third was right on the money.Rico Lewis (for Gomes, 80) – 6Slotted in at centre midfield when coming on and looked busy.Phil Foden (for Bellingham, 80) – 5Embraced the post ruefully after Madueke opted to shoot instead of crossing to him for a tap-in seconds after Finland’s goal. Was marking Arttu Hoskonen when the Finn headed home a consolatio.Conor Gallagher (for Rice, 89) – 6His first appearance under Carsley but too late to make an impact.Lee Carsley – 7His tactical gamble backfired against Greece but he held his hands up and went more conventional here. It paid off as England were relatively comfortable – although his teams have looked defensively vulnerable at times in all four of his games and this was no different. But the three best players, Gomes, Grealish and Alexander-Arnold, were all given starring roles by Carsley when used sparingly or not at all by predecessor Gareth Southgate – and for that, the interim boss should take credit.But he’s also sensationally opened the door to taking the Wembley hot seat, insisting “anything is possible.”He said: “(Leaving City?) That’s not true, in the sense that I have to think about it. (England?) No, that’s not true.England ratings: Angel Gomes is the runaway success of Lee Carsley era but Cole Palmer is anonymous”If I had decided something, I would say so. Anything is possible.”Interim Three Lions boss Carsley has guided the team to three wins and a shock loss to Greece during his brief tenure.But he has left fans confused over whether he actually wants the job going forward.The England interim boss raised eyebrows when he mentioned that he would “hopefully” return to his role as Under-21s manager on the back of England’s 2-1 defeat to Greece last week.Then, following the 3-1 win over Finland on Sunday, Carsley urged the FA to appoint a “world-class” manager to replace Gareth Southgate, before adding that he hasn’t ruled himself out.Carsley said: “I have been doing the Under-21s and I am really happy with my job.”I am an employee of the FA and I was asked to take the senior team which is a privilege, it was the proudest moment of my career.”I am really honoured with the chance to manage the senior team.”I am in a really fortunate position in that I am on the inside and I can see how much potential this team’s got.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It is one of the best jobs in world football. There aren’t many jobs where you’ve got a chance of winning.”I believe the coach that comes in has got a really good chance of winning and we deserve the best one that’s out there.” More