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    Marcus Rashford offers olive branch to Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim after being told his exile is ‘best for the team’

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    MARCUS RASHFORD has made it known he bears no grudge towards Ruben Amorim.Sources close to the dumped striker insist he is ready, willing and able to face Rangers in Thursday night’s Europa League clash if selected.Ruben Amorim axed Marcus Rashford from the Manchester United squadCredit: GettyRashford admitted he was ready to leave Old Trafford in DecemberCredit: RexThe 27-year-old was axed by Amorim over his performances in training and his declaration last month that he was “ready for a new challenge” away from Old Trafford.He hasn’t played for Manchester United in nine games and has made the bench only once in that time.But it is understood that he has been putting in extra training sessions to keep fit during his absence and is available to play in the Battle of Britain clash.And that he has no issues with Amorim and is ready to give 100 per cent for the shirt.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSAfter leaving him out again for Sunday’s 3-1 defeat by Brighton Amorim doubled-down on his stance over the home-grown star.The boss, who called his side “the worst in Manchester United’s history”, stressed: “It is his choice (not to play).“I don’t want to focus on this bad moment because in the games we lost, Rashford is not here.“I don’t want to put this moment on Rashford. Rashford is out because he is not playing.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”No matter what, I am not going to put out a player I don’t believe is the best for the team.”The Portuguese is unlikely to be moved by the attempt by Rashford’s camp to build bridges and is prepared to see him move on.Ruben Amorim says his team could be the worst in the history of Man Utd United, struggling to juggle finances so critical that they were close to being hit by a Prem points deduction over profit and sustainability rules, want his £315,000 wage off the books.Rashford refused to listen to approaches from Saudi Arabia despite the chance of a £35m per year deal because he fears such a switch would cost him any chance of regaining his England place.AC Milan have dropped interest in him while Borussia Dortmund would like to sign him on loan but would expect United to fund half of his salary.West Ham also have him on their radar with United looking for around £40m.Rashford’s brother and agent Dwaine Maynard wants him to go to Barcelona but the LaLiga club are barred from signing new players due to debts currently running to almost £850m.Why Rashford joining Arsenal is perfect fitBy Martin LiptonMARCUS RASHFORD is at a crossroads.But now the England star has to make the biggest choice he has ever faced – does he care about cash, or about his career?Rashford’s shock admission that he is “ready for a new challenge” after some two decades under the Manchester United umbrella has altered the dynamic around his future.That Rashford might not fit the blueprint of Ruben Amorim – who has now responded to Rashford’s comments – was not exactly a surprise.The Portuguese coach prefers a 3-4-3 formation but appears to have settled on Rasmus Hojlund as his starting central striker and wants two “narrow” inside forwards, with the width coming from the wing-backs.Rashford has always wanted to play through the middle but is often at his best exploiting spaces out wide – and that skillset does not necessarily suit the way Amorim wants to play.Even so, going public with his evident dissatisfaction at being bombed entirely from the squad for the Manchester derby was a major move, even if he vowed there would be “no hard feelings” if he does leave his boyhood club.In truth, Rashford has been leaving United almost from the moment he signed that new £325,000 per week contract in 2023.Something was broken in his connection to the club. His form dropped, his threat dissipated, his issues with the hierarchy deepened.When Erik ten Hag dropped him for hosting a birthday party after a derby defeat, and he later pulled a sickie to miss the FA Cup game with Newport, it felt even then that the writing was on the wall.The facts suggest the love affair has ended. After scoring 30 in all competitions to earn that new deal, he has scored just 15 in the 18 months since it was signed.Amorim’s arrival seems merely to have accelerated what was increasingly inevitable.Now, though, it is up to Rashford to determine what his future will bring.If it is only about the money, then his options might be somewhat limited.It is hard to see a Prem rival coughing up the same £16.9m annual salary – although Rashford’s comments have probably knocked £20m-plus off any transfer fee.But Real Madrid have their fill of big-money strikers and Barcelona’s budget remains restricted by LaLiga financial controls.In Europe, then, that probably leaves PSG – but a move to a one-club league.Or, in the wider world, he could follow the likes of Ivan Toney, Cristiano Ronaldo, Roberto Firmino and Co and head to the Saudi desert. Lucrative, yep. Certainly a different environment – and that may be exactly what Rashford both wants and needs. But the football? Not in a million years.What Rashford needs, above all, is to be able to play for trophies and showcase his talents.There is no better stage than the Premier League – which has far more global eyeballs on it than any other domestic competition.And in that Premier League there is one club crying out for a goalscoring No 9, especially if he can also play down the left channel to balance out the side and widen its threat.Rashford has always been more Longsight than London.Yet Arsenal, and Mikel Arteta, might be the perfect fit.The Gunners’ lack of a proper scorer is one of the major factors many fans feel has hurt their title challenge this year.Gabriel Jesus has never been a natural finisher, while Kai Havertz is still a converted midfielder.And while the link-up between Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka makes their right flank deadly, faith in Gabriel Martinelli on the left is waning.There have not been too many who succeeded at Arsenal after leaving United – although Danny Welbeck was not a flop.Rashford has all the attributes to change that history, if he can reproduce what everybody knows is inside him.And by breaking free, giving himself the chance to start all over, Rashford can make a point to Amorim that will resonate for a very long time. 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      Why Dominic Solanke could hold key to success for Dream Team bosses this month

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      GAMEWEEK 19 is only half complete with a full round of Premier League fixtures to fulfil this week.But already thoughts turn to how Dream Team managers should approach Gameweeks 20 and 21, when the league phases of the Champions League and Europa League will reach a dramatic conclusion.Tottenham are pushing for a guaranteed place in the Europa League round of 16Credit: GettyThe resumption of the European competitions means gaffers should once again ensure they are suitably represented on the continental stage.Cole Palmer (£6.1m), Bryan Mbeumo (£4.8m) and Alexander Isak (£6m) are just three popular names among those with just two fixtures to fulfil across the next two Gameweeks.Meanwhile, Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester Aston Villa, Manchester United and Tottenham will play four times in the same time period.The latter are a particularly interesting prospect given the relatively favourable nature of their January fixtures once they’ve attended to the small matter of Wednesday night’s North London derby at the Emirates.Ange Postecoglou’s side will play Everton and Leicester in the league, two sides in the bottom five of the table currently, alongside Europa League meetings with Hoffenheim and Elfsborg.With all due respect to the German and Swedish teams, Spurs will be heavy favourites against both – Hoffenheim are 15th in the Bundesliga right now.Kulusevski owners will be hopeful of further points this monthCredit: RexPostecoglou has rotated his squad in Europe but he can’t afford to take anything for granted this month if he’s to progress to the last 16 of the competition without having to endure the stress of a play-off.Spurs are currently ninth in the table with only the top eight guaranteed a place in the round of 16.Most read in FootballWith all this mind, might Dominic Solanke (£4.6m) hold the key to success for Dream Team bosses in the next fortnight or so?The England international has 186 points to his name this season, making him the leading asset among his team-mates at the time of writing.And yet he’s just the fifth-most selected Spurs player with Brennan Johnson (£3.7m), Dejan Kulusevski (£4.3m), James Maddison (£4.1m) and Pedro Porro (£4.2m) all boasting superior ownership percentages.Solanke looks a strong option for the remainder of JanuaryCredit: EPAMOST POPULAR SPURS PLAYERS IN DREAM TEAM RIGHT NOW (% OWNERSHIP):21.4% – Brennan Johnson17.6% – Dejan Kulusevski14.8% – James Maddison14.4% – Pedro Porro14.1% – Dominic SolankeIt’s not that Solanke is being totally overlooked; an ownership of 14.1% makes him the fourth-most popular striker in the game.But it’s notable that Isak (30.6%) is more than twice as popular given the upcoming fixture deficit between the two.Newcastle’s main man is in fantastic form and his chances of banking healthy returns against Bournemoth and Southampton are strong but will he outscore Solanke, who may be deployed against Everton, Hoffenheim, Leicester and Elfsborg in the same time frame?It’s worth noting here that for all his success in recent weeks, Isak is just three points ahead of Solanke overall.19 goal involvements and countingCredit: GettyTottenham’s No19 has scored 11 goals and provided eight assists this season which works out at a goal involvement every 113.6 minutes.READ MORE SUN STORIESSpurs have their weaknesses, hence why they’re 12th in the Premier League at present, but they pack a punch in attack and only league-leaders Liverpool have scored more goals in the top flight this term.There’s plenty to be said for backing Solanke in combination with either Kulusevski, Johnson or Maddison in search of bumper points this month.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOW More

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      Why Dream Team managers should prioritise Tottenham, Liverpool and Arsenal players for the next month

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      DREAM TEAM managers need to stay alert at this time of year.The upcoming Gameweeks will not only feature fixtures from both domestic cups alongside the bread and butter of the Premier League but the resumption of the Champions League and Europa League league phases as well.It’s a busy time of year for Spurs, Liverpool and ArsenalCredit: Dream TeamThere will be plenty of points on offer in the next month or so but only if gaffers stay on top of the schedule.With this in mind, it’s important to note that Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham are the only three teams with EIGHT games to fulfil across the next four Gameweeks.These three clubs being the only ones involved in the Carabao Cup semi-finals as well as the European competitions.LIVERPOOL’S UPCOMING FIXTURESGW19: Accrington Stanley (h), Nottingham Forest (a)GW20: Brentford (a), Lille (h)GW21: Ipswich (h), PSV (a)GW22: Bournemouth (a), Spurs (h)ARSENAL’S UPCOMING FIXTURESGW19: Manchester United (h), Spurs (h)GW20: Aston Villa (a), Dinamo Zagreb (h)GW21: Wolves (a), Girona (a)GW22: Manchester City (h), Newcastle (a)TOTTENHAM’S UPCOMING FIXTURESMost read in FootballGW19: Tamworth (a), Arsenal (a)GW20: Everton (a), Hoffenheim (a)GW21: Leicester (h), Elfsborg (h)GW22: Brentford (a), Liverpool (a)Mohamed Salah is Dream Team’s top points scorer this seasonCredit: AlamyThere are several factors to consider when making transfers but it’s simply true that more fixtures equals more point-scoring opportunities.Cole Palmer (£6.1m) is one of the standout performers of the season with a mega average of 10.4 points-per-game but he will have a maximum of five outings in the same stretch that will see Liverpool, Arsenal and Spurs will play eight times each.This is not to say backers of Chelsea’s talisman should rush to ditch him but Dream Team bosses should ensure the fixture deficit doesn’t get out of hand.Alexander Isak (£5.9m), Bryan Mbeumo (£4.5m) and Anthony Gordon (£5m) are other popular players in fine form who may suffer when the European competitions resume later this month.Palmer owners will have a big decision to make in Gameweek 20Credit: GettyOn the surface, it might seem there’s little difference between three Stamford Bridge residents and three Spurs assets but if all six players appeared in every available fixture between the start of Gameweek 19 and the end of Gameweek 22, that’s a disparity of nine games in favour of the North Londoners, which could equate to a significant points swing!That being said, this is only theory.In reality, it’s likely Arne Slot, Mikel Arteta and Ange Postecoglou will rotate their squads throughout this busy period to some degree at least.READ MORE SUN STORIESFor starters, second-string outfits from Liverpool and Spurs should be expected against Accrington Stanley and Tamworth in the FA Cup third round this weekend.But the point being there are healthy returns to be had if gaffers can identify which form players are about to experience an increased workload.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOW More

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      Ex-Chelsea and Arsenal star David Luiz ‘locked in talks over transfer to European giants’ after leaving Brazilian side

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      DAVID LUIZ is in talks to return to European football during the January transfer window.Luiz, now 37, had two trophy-laden spell with Chelsea before leaving the Premier League in 2021 after two years with Arsenal.David Luiz is holding talks regarding a move to Olympiacos, as per his agentCredit: GettyLuiz stood out during two stints at Chelsea before joining ArsenalCredit: PA:Empics SportThe versatile defender returned to his native Brazil where he spent the last three season with Rio de Janeiro giants Flamengo.However the bushy-haired centre-half is now a free agent and could be set to make a shock return to Europe.Luiz’s representative Julio Taran has confirmed he is in talks with Greek side Olympiacos.And Taran revealed that talks with reigning Conference League champions are progressing well.Read More on FootballTaran told Greek journalist Johnny Georgopoulos: “Yes, there are chances David Luiz will play for Olympiacos.”We are in contact with the Greek club.”Luiz is also close friends with Olympiacos star Rodinei, with whom he played for a year at Flamengo until the full-back moved to Greece in 2022.Taran even claimed that the right-back is “pushing” for a reunion with his former team-mate in Piraeus.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe added: “Yes, this is among the reasons [Luiz’s friendship with Rodinei].”Rodinei is like family for David Luiz. Rodinei has spoken highly about David Luiz to Olympiacos management and is pushing for his arrival.”Carragher hits back at David Luiz for title jibe after ex-Arsenal and Chelsea star said ‘it’s funny’ as he never won it Luiz experienced immense success at Chelsea where he amassed 248 appearances across two stints.The defender also won the 2017 Premier League title, two FA Cup trophies, the 2012 Champions League and two Europa League honours. More

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      Robbie Keane returns to football as manager of Europa League club months after quitting Maccabi Tel Aviv

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      ROBBIE KEANE has returned to management by taking over a Europa League side.Keane, 44, had been a free agent since June when he quit his position as Maccabi Tel Aviv boss.Robbie Keane has been announced as the new Ferencvaros managerCredit: Instagram @Fradi_HUKeane was a free agent after leaving Maccabi Tel Aviv in JuneCredit: APThe Irish tactician, however, will be back in the dugout soon after his seven-month hiatus.The ex-Premier League star has been announced as the new manager of Ferencvaros.The Hungarian giants targeted the ex-Tottenham star last summer and held talks with his representatives.Fradi, though, opted for Pascal Jansen but he was eventually “bought out of his contract”.Read More on FootballFerencvaros rekindled their interest in the former striker and reached an agreement shortly after the New Year.Keane flew to Budapest on Sunday and put pen to paper with his new team the next day.The Republic of Ireland great is now set to jet off to Spain on Tuesday to link up with his new players during their winter training camp.Ferencvaros issued the following statement: “We announce the successor to Dutchman Pascal Jansen to lead our 35-time champion and 24-time cup winner team, as the 146-time national team player of the Republic of Ireland Robbie Keane has signed on Monday.Most read in Europa League”The new head coach arrived in Budapest on Sunday evening and will leave on Tuesday to join our team at the training camp in Spain.”Keane’s first match in charge of Ferencvaros will take place on Friday during a friendly match against Preussen Munster.Robbie Keane beams alongside wife Claudine as he spends Valentine’s Day in world’s most romantic cityThe ex-Liverpool ace is then facing two crunch Europa League clashes against Eintracht Frankfurt and AZ Alkmaar. More

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      Inside Alejandro Garnacho’s Man Utd axe as it’s revealed he was dropped by Ruben Amorim over touchline incident

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      ALEJANDRO GARNACHO was dropped by Ruben Amorim following a touchline incident – reports say. Garnacho was axed for the Manchester derby in December alongside Marcus Rashford – before being benched for the last four games.Alejandro Garnacho was allegedly dropped by Ruben Amorim following a touchline incidentCredit: GettyGarnacho has been benched by AmorimCredit: APAccording to the Daily Mail, trouble started during United’s Europa League clash with Viktoria Plzen just three days before the trip to City. It is claimed Garnacho turned his back on Amorim and walked away while his manager was giving him instructions on the touchline. But sources close to the player apparently denied that he was being disrespectful – and put it down to a misunderstanding.Garnacho has come off the bench for United’s last three matches – all ending in defeat – having been overlooked in the starting XI.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLJoshua Zirkzee started on the left against Newcastle – but was ruthlessly subbed off after just 33 minutes. Rather tellingly, despite being a natural replacement on the wing Garnacho remained on the bench with Kobbie Mainoo replacing Zirkzee. It has led to questions on whether the Argentine outcast fits into Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation. Rashford meanwhile returned to the squad at Newcastle as an unused substitute following his four-match absence. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe England international has not played since his bombshell reveal that he is “ready for a new challenge”. And with the January transfer window now open, speculation is rife Rashford could leave his boyhood club. Ruben Amorim hauls off Joshua Zirkzee after 32 minutes to huge cheers as Man Utd are embarrassed in first halfBut he is said to have rejected approaches from Saudi Arabia – despite reports of being offered a £35MILLION-a-year contract. Rashford is also out of United’s squad travelling to league leaders Liverpool on Sunday due to illness. Amorim said: “It’s the same situation. At the moment, he’s ill and he’s not training so we’ll see in the future. “But he’s like a normal player, then I make a selection so it’s the same. I think he’s going to be out this week. “He’s not training. We’ll see but I think this week he’s out.” Marcus Rashford is out against Liverpool due to illnessCredit: Rex More

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      Keir Starmer vows to BLOCK English clubs joining new European Super League as he slams hated plot to revive it

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      ENGLISH clubs will be BLOCKED from joining the newly-proposed European Super League, Sir Keir Starmer vowed today. The footie-mad PM went studs up on the latest threat of a breakaway tournament and said Premier League sides would not participate “on his watch”. Sir Keir Starmer has attacked plans for a European Super LeagueCredit: ReutersA22 have written to Fifa and Uefa to ask for permission to form a new league of 96 teamsHe is currently passing laws for a new football regulator with powers to ban teams from joining adjacent competitions. Downing Street hit out after promoter A22 Sports announced proposals for a 96-team series.The bizarre “Unify League” worships the EU – with its four divisions named Star, Gold, Blue and Union after the bloc’s flag. Arsenal-fan Sir Keir’s spokesman said: “Clearly this is not something the Prime Minister supports.Read more on politics“You’ve heard him previously say that on his watch, there’ll be no Super League-style breakaway from English football. “And as part of the strength in the Football Governance Bill, the regulator will be able to prevent English clubs from joining future breakaway competitions by taking into account factors such as sustainability, heritage and fairness should be at the heart of our game.They added they hope to pass the legislation – currently going through the Lords before coming to the Commons – “as quickly as possible”.Ex-Sports Minister Tracey Crouch – who first proposed the regulator in her Fan Led Review – slammed this “latest wheeze”.Most read in FootballShe told The Sun: “While this is a matter for UEFA, after the huge fan reaction to the breakaway super league that ultimately led to the Bill now going through Parliament to protect the long term future of English football, it will be a brave move for any Premier League club to support this latest wheeze without the approval of its fans.”Niall Couper, chief executive of football campaign group Fair Game, added: “The spectre of a new Super League needs to be killed immediately. And that is exactly why football needs a regulator with real teeth and why it needs one now.”The owners of elite clubs cannot be allowed to run roughshod over football.”But it is not just about urgency, it is also about ensuring the regulator has real power.”Without the ability to stand up to the top clubs, then it will betray not just the fans but the entire football pyramid that the success of our national game has been built on.”What’s the ‘Unify League’ and which Prem teams would play in new version of European Super League?Revived Super LeaguePromoter of the new league, A22 Sports, unveiled plans for a radical revamped format named the “Unify League” on Tuesday.The Madrid-based firm, backed by Real Madrid chairman Florentino Perez, said it had written to Fifa and Uefa to ask for official endorsement for the league.The previous attempt by the firm to form a breakaway league announced in April 2021 was met by huge fan backlash.But the new refined league will see 96 teams spread across four divisions – Star, Gold, Blue and Union – and crucially include promotion and relegation, meaning inclusion will be based on merit.As many as TEN Premier League teams will be offered the chance to take part in the new competition.Participation in the league would NOT affect membership of the Premier League, but the tournament would effectively spell the end of the Champions League.SunSport understands a significant number of Prem clubs have privately said they would be willing to take part in the new league.A22 bosses believe Uefa must endorse its latest proposal following a December 2023 European Court of Justice ruling that previous tactics used to block a Super League were contrary to EU law.And the league’s bosses are confident the latest iteration of their “Super League” will receive authorisation from Uefa, according to The Guardian.The report adds that Uefa is unlikely to respond in haste and that authorising the league, in essence calling A22’s bluff, will be an option under consideration.The prize fund for the tournament is yet to be confirmed, but A22 has promised £330million in “solidarity” payments for smaller clubs and countries.The total pot is expected to exceed the current £2billion Uefa fund for the Champions League and the £700m for the Europa and Conference Leagues combined.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeasures to block clubs from joining any breakaway competition are included in the Government’s Independent Football Regulator, currently going through Parliament and backed by all major parties.But the new competition seeks to supplant Uefa and be club-run — as happened when the Premier League was set up more than 30 years ago.Plenty to like… but will fans back it?By Martin Lipton, Chief Sports ReporterTHE biggest issue with the first version of Super League was that it was utterly unfair.Football has always been about what you earn on the field — and offering the Prem’s Big Six a place in a breakaway elite for life would have destroyed the fabric of the game.So while many fans reacted in anger at the ­latest proposals unveiled by Madrid-based A22, its new plans do tick more boxes.Qualification by merit, rather than on the basis of what a club did ten, 15 or 20 years ago is a step in the right direction.As are extra “big” games, playing all teams in a mini-league, home and away — it’s hard to keep tabs on a Champions League table of 36 clubs.Then an end-of-season knock-out with real tension, especially with a final four-style week of one-off semis and the final.But it seems unlikely that a new streaming platform, offering both ad-supported “free” games and a bells-and-whistles subscription service, can really earn the billions required to run four competitions every season.The potential autumn 2026 launch means huge obstacles will have to be cleared quickly — and that includes winning over the fans whose determination torpedoed Super League version one in 48 hours in 2021.In the end, it will come down to the clubs.If they feel their bread is being buttered the way they like it, then it could be on — and if that means jettisoning the Carabao Cup, so be it More

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      Premier League clubs keen on new European Super League with bosses ‘confident Uefa will accept Unify League plans’

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      A NUMBER of Premier League clubs have privately signalled their support in taking part in the new European Super League.Promoter of the new league, A22 Sports, unveiled plans for a radical revamped format named the “Unify League” on Tuesday.A number of Premier League clubs have privately signalled their support for the new European Super LeagueCredit: GettyA22 have written to Fifa and Uefa to ask for permission to form a new league of 96 teamsCredit: A22A22 is backed by Real Madrid chairman Florentino PerezCredit: AlamyAs many as ten Premier League clubs will be offered the chance to star in the leagueCredit: EPABut unlike the 2021 proposal the Unify League will feature promotion and relegationCredit: PAThe 2021 proposal caused a tsunami of backlash among fansCredit: AFPThe Madrid-based firm, backed by Real Madrid chairman Florentino Perez, said it had written to Fifa and Uefa to ask for official endorsement for the league.The previous attempt by the firm to form a breakaway league announced in April 2021 was met by huge fan backlash.But the new refined league will see 96 teams spread across four divisions – Star, Gold, Blue and Union – and crucially include promotion and relegation, meaning inclusion will be based on merit.As many as TEN Premier League teams will be offered the chance to take part in the new competition.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLParticipation in the league would NOT affect membership of the Premier League, but the tournament would effectively spell the end of the Champions League.SunSport understands a significant number of Prem clubs have privately said they would be willing to take part in the new league.A22 bosses believe Uefa must endorse its latest proposal following a December 2023 European Court of Justice ruling that previous tactics used to block a Super League were contrary to EU law.And the league’s bosses are confident the latest iteration of their “Super League” will receive authorisation from Uefa, according to The Guardian.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBOWING TO FAT CATSBy Will Barker, Sun newsman and Villa fanJUST when you thought the greedy clubs had learnt their lesson from the last Super League chaos, here comes another crazy idea.And this time, the EU has laid out the red carpet for fat cat clubs to sponge even more money off fans.My team, Villa, have been battling since the very start of the Champions League to hear the famous anthem played at Villa Park.Previous memories of 1982 when we won the European Cup are all faded now.But now we have been able to experience first hand what a great competition it is rather than jealously watch our Premier League rivals from afar.Incredibly, Villa have had a great run in the tournament so far — even beating giants Bayern Munich, which led to some of the wildest celebrations in the Midlands I’ve seen for years.Football is about the fans.It isn’t about the rich owners and it certainly isn’t about the politicians in Brussels, who need to get their hands off our great game.The report adds that Uefa is unlikely to respond in haste and that authorising the league, in essence calling A22’s bluff, will be an option under consideration.The prize fund for the tournament is yet to be confirmed, but A22 has promised £330million in “solidarity” payments for smaller clubs and countries.Unify League explained after European Super League launches again in new format The total pot is expected to exceed the current £2billion Uefa fund for the Champions League and the £700m for the Europa and Conference Leagues combined.Measures to block clubs from joining any breakaway competition are included in the Government’s Independent Football Regulator, currently going through Parliament and backed by all major parties.But the new competition seeks to supplant Uefa and be club-run — as happened when the Premier League was set up more than 30 years ago.Plenty to like… but will fans back it?By Martin Lipton, Chief Sports ReporterTHE biggest issue with the first version of Super League was that it was utterly unfair.Football has always been about what you earn on the field — and offering the Prem’s Big Six a place in a breakaway elite for life would have destroyed the fabric of the game.So while many fans reacted in anger at the ­latest proposals unveiled by Madrid-based A22, its new plans do tick more boxes.Qualification by merit, rather than on the basis of what a club did ten, 15 or 20 years ago is a step in the right direction.As are extra “big” games, playing all teams in a mini-league, home and away — it’s hard to keep tabs on a Champions League table of 36 clubs.Then an end-of-season knock-out with real tension, especially with a final four-style week of one-off semis and the final.But it seems unlikely that a new streaming platform, offering both ad-supported “free” games and a bells-and-whistles subscription service, can really earn the billions required to run four competitions every season.The potential autumn 2026 launch means huge obstacles will have to be cleared quickly — and that includes winning over the fans whose determination torpedoed Super League version one in 48 hours in 2021.In the end, it will come down to the clubs.If they feel their bread is being buttered the way they like it, then it could be on — and if that means jettisoning the Carabao Cup, so be it. 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      Fury over revamped European Super League as it’s revealed four new divisions would be based on EU flag

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      FOUR divisions for a new 96-club European Super League would be inspired by the EU flag — Star, Gold, Blue and Union.Promoter A22 Sports yesterday unveiled its format for a “Unify League” and said it had written to Fifa and Uefa to ask for official endorsement.Footie fans slammed a plot to revive the hated European Super League, above protesters outside Stamford Bridge in 2021Credit: GettyFour divisions would be inspired by the EU flag — Star, Gold, Blue and UnionCredit: AlamyMadrid-based A22 is backed by Real Madrid, its chief Florentio Perez and Barcelona, above Jude Bellingham during a UEFA Champions League matchCredit: GettyThe firm’s previous plan for a closed 20-team league folded in April 2021 amid a fan backlash — as reported by The Sun.But A22 bosses believe Uefa must endorse its proposal following a December 2023 European Court of Justice ruling that previous tactics used to block a Super League were contrary to EU law.An A22 spokesperson confirmed last night: “The names of the leagues are named after the EU Flag/Flag of the Council of Europe.“The Unify proposal is aligned with the principles of the European Union and compliant with its laws.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“It is open to all clubs from across the 55 countries.”Teams would earn a place on merit and not be guaranteed entry.Games would be streamed free on a direct-to-fan Unify platform, with viewers likely to pay a ­subscription to go ad-free.But one fan blasted: “They’ve used an EU ruling as the justification, and now the flag seems to have inspired the leagues. It stinks.”Most read in FootballA senior Uefa figure called the plan “bulls***t” and “a Christmas pantomime”.Tim Payton, from the Arsenal Supporters Trust, added: “We utterly condemn these proposals and are against any breakaway or super leagues.”Fans ask ‘how’s Henry spotted that?’ as they are left stunned by Arsenal icon’s analysis of Man Utd star’s goal vs Man City He urged the football regulator currently being set up by the UK government to block the proposal.Top Unify League division Star would involve 16 clubs in two pools of eight.Second league Gold would be the same. The remaining 64 teams would be in Blue and Union divisions.Each of those would be split into four pools of eight.A women’s competition would run alongside.Madrid-based A22 is backed by Real Madrid, its chief Florentino Perez, and Barcelona.A22 CEO Bernd Reichart said the Unify League aimed to address challenges such as increased TV subscription costs, an overloaded calendar, insufficient investment in women’s football, and dissatisfaction with the format and governance of current competitions.We utterly condemn these proposals and are against any breakaway or super leaguesTim Payton, from the Arsenal Supporters TrustHe cited the ECJ 2023 ruling that states “any competition where qualification is inclusive and meritocratic, and which complies with the overall match calendar can be officially established”.Mr Reichart said A22 had consulted with clubs, leagues and other groups.But Arsenal fan Mr Payton said: “I don’t believe they’ve had any meaningful discussions with supporter groups.“We have pushed Arsenal in our meetings with them since the Super League — and they always tell us they are committed to the existing structures and competitive balance.“We would urge the club to ­condemn and ignore moves like this. “It is a breakaway and being proposed by people outside the FA, Premier League and Uefa structure.BOWING TO FAT CATSBy Will Barker, Sun newsman and Villa fanJUST when you thought the greedy clubs had learnt their lesson from the last Super League chaos, here comes another crazy idea.And this time, the EU has laid out the red carpet for fat cat clubs to sponge even more money off fans.My team, Villa, have been battling since the very start of the Champions League to hear the famous anthem played at Villa Park. Previous memories of 1982 when we won the European Cup are all faded now.But now we have been able to experience first hand what a great competition it is rather than jealously watch our Premier League rivals from afar. Incredibly, Villa have had a great run in the tournament so far — even beating giants Bayern Munich, which led to some of the wildest celebrations in the Midlands I’ve seen for years.Football is about the fans. It isn’t about the rich owners and it certainly isn’t about the politicians in Brussels, who need to get their hands off our great game.”They are badging it up as being a bit more competitive but it’s still a breakaway and propagated by Real Madrid and Barcelona.”Manchester United fan and football writer Andy Mitten added: “I don’t think this is a goer and it seems to be being pushed by Real Madrid. “I am not in favour.”The first European Super League plan guaranteed entry to 12 rebel clubs including the Prem Big Six, above Liverpool star Mohamed SalahCredit: GettyManchester City ace Phil Foden copetes in the UEFA Champions LeagueCredit: GettySpurs fan Doug Sanders wrote online: “Just no! “It is clear that player injuries are increasing due to the fixture lists, leaving hardly any free time during the year.“This is solely about making money for A22. “I suppose this would be televised on another obscure channel that fans would need a separate contract for.”One supporter said: “Perez doesn’t take no for an answer, does he?”Another added: “No one wants this. “Stop this nonsense now.”No one wants this. Stop this nonsense nowOne supporterAnd a third wrote: “Massive waste of everyone’s time. “As useless as the new World Club Cup.“Stop trying to please faceless clubs. “Fans want competitive local football.”The new format could involve up to ten Premier League teams compared to four in this year’s Champions League, two in the Europa League and one in the Conference League.The Premier League would have three teams in Star, two in Gold and up to five further teams across the remaining divisions.The first Super League plan guaranteed entry to 12 rebel clubs including the Prem’s Big Six — Liverpool, Man City, Arsenal, Chelsea, Spurs and Man Utd.All positions in the Unify League would be earned by domestic performances in the previous season.A22 envisages 14 league phase games being played between September and April.The top four in each group would then reach a two-legged quarter- final, with the winners progressing to a “final four” week of one-off matches to decide the competition.It means footballers, already ­complaining of burnout, would face playing even more games. No ­formal start date has been set but it is understood A22 hopes to launch in September 2026.The prize fund is yet to be confirmed but A22 promises £330million in “solidarity” payments to smaller clubs and countries.The total pot is expected to exceed the current fund of £2billion for the Champions League, and £700million for the Europa and Conference Leagues combined.Measures to block clubs from joining any breakaway competition are included in the Government’s Independent Football Regulator, currently going through Parliament and backed by all major parties.But the new competition seeks to supplant Uefa and be club-run — as happened when the Premier League was set up more than 30 years ago.The Premier League, Uefa and UK teams have not commented.But clubs are likely to be mindful of angry fan reaction. READ MORE SUN STORIESIn 2021 thousands flocked to demonstrations at Arsenal, Chelsea and Man Utd.They let off smoke bombs, called for club owners who had backed plans to go and branded the proposed format the “Super Greed”.Plenty to like… but will fans back it?By Martin Lipton, Chief Sports ReporterTHE biggest issue with the first version of Super League was that it was utterly unfair.Football has always been about what you earn on the field — and offering the Prem’s Big Six a place in a breakaway elite for life would have destroyed the fabric of the game.So while many fans reacted in anger at the ­latest proposals unveiled by Madrid-based A22, its new plans do tick more boxes.Qualification by merit, rather than on the basis of what a club did ten, 15 or 20 years ago is a step in the right direction.As are extra “big” games, playing all teams in a mini-league, home and away — it’s hard to keep tabs on a Champions League table of 36 clubs.Then an end-of-season knock-out with real tension, especially with a final four-style week of one-off semis and the final.But it seems unlikely that a new streaming platform, offering both ad-supported “free” games and a bells-and-whistles subscription service, can really earn the billions required to run four competitions every season.The potential autumn 2026 launch means huge obstacles will have to be cleared quickly — and that includes winning over the fans whose determination torpedoed Super League version one in 48 hours in 2021.In the end, it will come down to the clubs.If they feel their bread is being buttered the way they like it, then it could be on — and if that means jettisoning the Carabao Cup, so be it. 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