Explainers

Subterms

    More stories

    • 163 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Why does Eddie Nketiah mime a ‘phone call’ when celebrating goals for Arsenal?

      by

      ARSENAL striker Eddie Nketiah likes to celebrate every goal with a phone call.There could be many calls on the cards for Eddie as Arsenal anticipate a ‘bidding war’ for their record breaking striker to transfer next season. But who is the striker and why does he mime a ‘phone call’ when he scores?Eddie Nketiah is known to his ‘phone call’ goal celebration but what does it mean?Credit: GettyWho is Eddie Nketiah?Edward Nketiah is an English professional footballer.Born May 30, 1999, to Ghanaian parents Eddie grew up in Lewisham, South East London.The young striker was scouted by Chelsea FC at the age of nine while playing for Hillyfielders, a south-east London Sunday team.Eddie joined the Arsenal Academy in 2016 after leaving Chelsea the previous year.More from SportOn September 28, 2017, Eddie was called up to the first team for Arsenal’s UEFA Europa League match against BATE Borisov.In January 2019 he was set for a loan move to Bundesliga club FC Augsburg transfer window, but due to an injury to Danny Welbeck, Eddie stayed at Arsenal.In January 2019, he reportedly turned down a call up from the Ghana national team, with Eddie favouring the choice to play for the England squad.He went on to captain the England under-21s for the first time in September 2020, scoring a memorable hat-trick during a 6–0 victory over Kosovo that year and again in 2023 with Arsenal in a 5-0 win over Sheffield United.Most read in FootballWhy does Eddie Nketiah mime a ‘phone call’ when he scores a goal?Some players like Jude Bellingham use hand gestures to join in with the crowds excitement, while others perform somersaults. For Eddie it’s his signature ‘phone call.’Eddie’s goal celebration sees him mime making a call after he accurately connects the call with the back of the net. Arsenal vs Wolves: Player RatingsThe Gunner striker first performed the routine after scoring in the Gunners’ 3-2 defeat of Everton in February 2020.Revealing the meaning behind his goal jubilation Eddie told Arsenal:”It’s just a little phone call! In pre-season Arsenal Media came up with a little thing ‘call me if you need a goal’ so I have kind of just stuck with it. “A lot of my friends like it so they are eager for me to dial them up if I get on the scoresheet so I try to enjoy each goal, whether that is youth level, in the park, anywhere I always try to celebrate and enjoy it and it is always a blessing to score.”Eddie Nketiah scores and celebrates 1-1 victory with his signature moveCredit: Kevin Quigley NMC PoolHow many goals has Eddie Nketiah scored for Arsenal?The Arsenal academy graduate has scored a total of 46 goals for his team since his football career began with the youth squad in 2016.The hat trick hero broke Alan Shearer’s goal scoring record of 13 for the under-21s in 2017 – finishing with 16 goals from 17 appearances at that level.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn January 2023, Eddie was belatedly recognised for his achievement in becoming England U21s’ record goal scorer and was presented a commemorative golden boot.The 25-year-old played 27 games for Arsenal last season with five goals and two assists. However, this could be his last season with Arsenal as other premiere league rivals bid to Arsenal for a potential transfer next season. More

    • 138 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      What is Jude Bellingham’s goal celebration and what does it mean?

      by

      ENGLAND football player Jude Bellingham doesn’t hold back on the pitch.From bicycle kicks to passionate team talks, Bellingham throws his all into the game and his goal celebrations can attest to that. But what do his goal celebrations mean?Jude Bellingham recently became an ambassador for Luis VuittonCredit: InstagramWho is Jude Bellingham?Jude Bellingham is an English professional footballer.Born June 29, 2003 Bellingham plays for Real Madrid and the England national team. Parents Denise and Mark Bellingham raised him and his younger brother Jobe, in Stourbridge, in the Metropolitan Borough of Dudley, West Midlands.Bellingham’s father Mark, was himself a prolific goalscorer in non-League football at East Thurrock United.More from SportAnd his brother Jobe, plays for Sunderland and the England U20 national team.Bellingham’s football career started at seven-years-old when he joined Birmingham City as an under-8, after playing for Stourbridge Juniors. He made his debut for the under-23 team at the age of 16 where he became the youngest ever player to feature and score for Birmingham City.Bellingham’s transfer from Birmingham City to Borussia Dortmund set a world record transfer fee for a 17-year-old in 2020.Most read in FootballUpon Bellingham’s departure to Borussia Dortmund, Birmingham City retired the no.22 shirt in recognition of him and to inspire others.Jude Bellingham signs with Louis Vuitton as England and Real Madrid superstar adds to incredible list of brand dealsWhat is Jude Bellingham’s goal celebration?Each player has his own way of celebrating a goal.Some players use hand gestures or somersaults to join in with the crowds excitement. Bellingham has a number of goal celebrations but one in particular has become iconic – much in the same way that Cristiano Ronaldo became known for his knee glide, and Luis Saurez for blowing three kisses – Bellingham has become known for his ‘arms aloft’ goal gesture. When Bellingham scores, his go-to celebration involves running to the fans before stretching his arms out wide as if to present himself to the supporters.Another one of his favourite goal celebrations seen in the Euro 2024 games was the ‘Werewolf.’This goal celebration entails dropping to one knee before placing a splayed hand over his face. Bellingham arms aloft gesture to the crowd after a goal has become a crowd pleaserCredit: Getty ImagesWhat is the meaning behind Jude Bellingham’s celebration move?Bellingham first performed the celebration as a teenager in 2019 when playing for Birmingham City in the English Championship. Since then, Bellingham has performed the same celebration at Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid and in games for England.When asked what it meant Bellingham told RMTV: “The truth is that I don’t know exactly where it comes from.”I started doing it in Birmingham and from there I have continued it but there is no reason.”However according to Bellingham, the ‘Werewolf’ has more meaning because it was a reference to a card game played amongst staff and team mates. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe gesture is said to be a nod to the importance of the backroom staff. The midfielder explained: “When we play Wolf, one of the staff loves that face when he doesn’t have a clue what is going on so that was a little group celebration for the Wolf crew.” More

    • 225 Shares149 Views

      in Boxing

      Floyd Mayweather vs John Gotti III 2: Date, ring-walk time, TV channel, undercard and live stream for huge rematch

      by

      FLOYD MAYWEATHER returns to the ring this weekend as he takes on John Gotti III in an eagerly-anticipated rematch.The two last went head-to-head in an exhibition bout in Florida in June 2023, with the fight ending in chaos.Floyd Mayweather and John Gotti III will go head-to-head in Mexico City this weekendCredit: Splash NewsThe first fight between Floyd Mayweather and John Gotti III descended into chaos and was declared a no-contestThe sixth round consisted of trash-talking and rough tactics, which led referee Kenny Bayliss to stop the bout and declare it a no-contest.Once the bout was waved off, Gotti III, the grandson of organised crime boss John Gotti, charged at Mayweather, prompting a mass brawl in the ring.Each fighter’s respective camps stormed the ring with several punches thrown in crazy scenes – leading to both competitors being escorted out of the venue.Gotti III was slapped with a six-month suspension for his antics in Florida and now returns to the ring for the rematch with Mayweather having served his ban.READ MORE IN BOXINGWhen is Floyd Mayweather vs John Gotti III 2?Floyd Mayweather vs John Gotti III 2 will take place on Saturday, August 24.The bout was initially set to take place on Super Bowl weekend in Las Vegas.The event is scheduled to begin at 12.30am in the UK (Sunday morning) and 7.30pm in the US.Mayweather and Gotti III are due to take their ring-walks at approximately 4.06am in the UK and 11.06pm in the US.The fight will be held at Arena CDMX in Mexico City.What TV channel is Floyd Mayweather vs John Gotti III 2 on and can it be live streamed?Floyd Mayweather vs John Gotti III 2 will be broadcast live on DAZN PPV.In the UK, the bout is priced at £19.99, while in the US, the fight will cost $49.99.You can live stream the event via the DAZN website/app.Alternatively, follow SunSport’s live blog to keep up to date with all the action from Mexico City.Who’s on the undercard?Here are all the confirmed fights set to take place on the Mayweather vs Gotti III 2 undercard:Subject to changeMost read in BoxingFloyd Mayweather vs John Gotti IIIVictor Ortiz vs. Rodrigo Damian CoriaAlan David Picasso vs. Azat HovhannisyanLuis Rodriguez vs. Cesar VacaAaron Silva vs. Alfonso FloresSilvia Torres vs. Cecilia Rodriguez More

    • 188 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Champions League draw 2024/25: Date, stream, TV channel and pots for NEW league phase format

      by

      THERE’S nothing quite like a Champions League draw to put football fans on the edge of their seats – and the 2024/25 edition will be historic.Jude Bellingham’s dream debut season at Real Madrid ended in glory as Los Blancos beat Borussia Dortmund in last season’s Champions League final.Jude Bellingham helped Real Madrid win the Champions League in his first seasonCredit: GettyAnd the most decorated team in the competition will be tipped to win it again having added French phenomenon Kylian Mbappe to an incredible attacking force.However, Madrid have a lot more work to do to get to that stage due to the huge Champions League format changes.But first up is the league phase draw, and SunSport have all the information on when it will take place.Find out about the Champions League 2024/25 league phase draw below.Read more on Champions LeagueWhen is the 2024/25 Champions League draw?The 2024/25 Champions League draw will take place on Thursday, August 29.A time is yet to be confirmed but Grimaldi Forum in Monte Carlo, Monaco is the chosen venue for the draw.An automated system will now randomly select eight opponents for each team from four pots and allocate which teams play at home and away.This is due to the new league phase format.Most read in Champions LeagueWhat TV channel is the 2024/25 Champions League draw on and can it be live streamed?The 2024/25 Champions League draw will be broadcast LIVE on TNT Sports in the UK.Subscription members of TNT can stream the entire action through Discovery+Amazon have purchased UEFA rights in the UK for the first time so the draw will also be available on Amazon Prime Video.Alternatively, fans can find out who their teams will be drawn with through our live blog.Can I watch the 2024/25 Champions League draw for FREE?It has not been confirmed as yet but the Champions League draw is usually broadcast for FREE on TNT Sports’ official YouTube channel.What is the new Champions League format?Each club will play eight matches in the opening phase – against seeded opposition, in a system designed to ensure that teams play opponents of similar difficulty.The top eight teams in the “final” table will automatically go through to the last 16, where they will be joined by the eight play-off winners of ties between the sides placed ninth to 24th in the table.Despite there being just eight matches in the opening phase, European matches will be spread over 10 midweek slots.The new Champions League format also sees the implication of two additional qualifying spots.They will be awarded to the nations that are top of the “country coefficient” chart each season.What are the 2024/25 Champions League draw pots?Pot 1: Real Madrid, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Liverpool, Inter Milan, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig, BarcelonaPot 2: Bayer Leverkusen, Atlético Madrid, Atalanta, Juventus, Benfica, Arsenal, Club Brugge, Shakhtar Donetsk, MilanPot 3: Feyenoord, Sporting CP, PSV Eindhoven, CelticPot 4: Monaco, Aston Villa, Bologna, Girona, VfB Stuttgart, Sturm Graz, BrestREAD MORE SUN STORIESWhat are the Champions League fixture dates?Below is the full schedule for the 2024/25 Champions League:Matchday 1: September 17-19, 2024Matchday 2: October 1/2, 2024Matchday 3: October 22/23, 2024Matchday 4: November 5/6, 2024Matchday 5: November 26/27, 2024Matchday 6: December 10/11, 2024Matchday 7: January 21/22, 2025Matchday 8: January 29, 2025Knockout round play-offs: February 11/12 and February 18/19, 2025Round of 16: March 4/5 and March 11/12, 2025Quarter-finals: April 8/9 and April 15/16, 2025Semi-finals: April 29/30 and May 6/7, 2025Final: May 31, 2025 More

    • 200 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Why does Martin Odegaard place his hands over his ears after scoring a goal for Arsenal?

      by

      PLAYERS often celebrate goals with unique gestures that reflect their personalities and sentiments, turning each goal into a personal statement of triumph and individuality. With the Premier League back in full swing, it’s the perfect time to see how players like Odegaard are making their mark on the game.Martin Odegaard had his senior debut at the age of 15Credit: GettyWho is Martin Odegaard?Martin Odegaard, born on December 17, 1998, in Drammen, Norway, is a professional footballer.He plays as a midfielder and captains both Arsenal in the Premier League and the Norway national team.His career began at age 15 with Strømsgodset, where he became the youngest player in Norway’s top division, Tippeligaen, and its youngest goalscorer. In 2015, he signed with Real Madrid, where he initially struggled for consistent playing time. read more on martin odegaardHe spent several seasons on loan at clubs including Heerenveen, Vitesse, and Real Sociedad, where he won the Copa del Rey in 2019.Odegaard joined Arsenal on loan in January 2021 and made a strong impression, leading to a permanent transfer later in the year. He was appointed Arsenal captain in 2022 and has since been a key player, earning awards such as Arsenal Player of the Season for 2022–23 and being named in the Premier League Team of the Year.Internationally, Odegaard made his senior debut for Norway at just 15 years old, becoming the youngest player to represent the country. Most read in FootballHe was later named Norway’s national team captain in March 2021.Why does Martin Odegaard place his hands over his ears after scoring a goal?Odegaard was defended by his manger for his celebrationCredit: AlamyMartin Odegaard’s celebration with his hands over his ears is a response to criticism he received, particularly from Jamie Carragher. After Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over Liverpool earlier in the 2023/24 season, Carragher criticised Odegaard for his celebratory actions.He suggested he was overdoing it and should move on quickly from the moment.His gesture of placing his hands over his ears can be seen as a symbolic way of blocking out outside criticism and noise, showing that he is unfazed by the negative feedback and is focused on his performance and feelings.It’s a way for him to assert his individuality and confidence despite external opinions.When inquired about the meaning behind Odegaard’s distinctive celebration, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta told reporters: “I don’t know. I didn’t notice that he made that gesture.”But he was really happy in the dressing room with the way he played again today. “I think he was exceptional.”I don’t think he needs to send any message. “He needs to be himself and he needs to do what he feels. “And if he feels to do something, do it and deal with the consequences because some people are going to like it and some people won’t.”This unique celebration follows a trend among his Arsenal colleagues, who each have their distinct ways of marking their achievements. For instance, Gabriel Jesus often mimics holding a ‘phone’ to his ear, adding a playful touch to his celebrations. Kai Havertz, on the other hand, cups his ears after scoring and Bukayo Saka celebrates by holding the corner flag.Each player’s celebration style adds a personal touch to their on-field success and reflects their individuality.READ MORE SUN STORIESHow many goals has Martin Odegaard scored for Arsenal?As of August 2024, Martin Odegaard has scored 31 goals in 123 Premier League appearances for Arsenal. His goal-scoring record highlights his significant contribution to the team, showcasing his ability to impact matches as a midfielder. More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Gabriel Jesus celebration: Why does the Arsenal foward hold a ‘phone’ to his ear after scoring a goal?

      by

      GABRIEL Jesus has captivated fans with both his goal-scoring prowess and unique goal celebrations.His return to the Premier League with Arsenal has reignited excitement and here is everything we know about his goal celebration.Gabriel Jesus joined Arsenal in 2022Credit: ReutersWho is Gabriel Jesus?Gabriel Jesus, born April 3, 1997, is a Brazilian football player.He began his career at Palmeiras, where he won multiple titles, including the Copa do Brasil and the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A.His standout performances led to a high-profile transfer to Manchester City in January 2017, where he contributed to four Premier League titles, three EFL Cups, and an FA Cup over his five years with the club.In July 2022, Jesus joined Arsenal in a transfer valued at £45 million.read more on Gabriel JesusHe quickly became a key player, making an immediate impact with his goal-scoring and playmaking abilities. Internationally, Jesus has been a significant presence for Brazil, playing in the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups and winning the Copa América in 2019. Why does Gabriel Jesus do the phone celebration?Jesus is honouring his mother during his goal celebrationCredit: GettyGabriel Jesus’s signature phone celebration is a heartfelt tribute to his mother, Vera Lucia Diniz de Jesus. The celebration began in 2016 during a World Cup qualifying match for Brazil, where Jesus celebrated a goal by mimicking a phone call.Most read in FootballThe gesture, which Jesus elaborated on in interviews, reflects the close bond he shares with his mother and his gratitude for her unwavering support throughout his career.He said in an interview: “It was a joke with my friends, a ‘Hello, mother’. “My friends know why. My mother knows too.”It was a celebration for them.”Jesus also revealed during his time at Manchester City: “When we were kids, my mom would be calling me all the time to find out where I was, and if I didn’t pick up, she’d start calling all my friends.”When I pick up the phone, it is in honour of my mother and our struggle. “But it is also in honour of my friends and family and Coach Mamede and everyone in Brazil who helped me get here. “Whenever I score for Manchester City, my mother calls me. “As soon as the ball hits the back of the net, the phone rings.”It doesn’t matter if she’s back home in Brazil or if she’s in the stadium watching me.”She calls me every time. So I run to the corner flag, and I put my hand to my ear, and I say, ‘Alo Mae!’ (Hello mum).”He is not the only Arsenal star uniquely celebrating goals.For example, Kai Havertz’s celebration involves cupping his ears after scoring.READ MORE SUN STORIESHow many goals has Gabriel Jesus scored for Arsenal?As of August 2024, Gabriel Jesus has scored 15 goals for Arsenal.Jesus has made 213 appearances in the Premier League in total and has scored 73 goals. More

    • 150 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Why don’t Chelsea have a sponsor on the front of their shirt?

      by

      CHELSEA will start the Premier League season without a main front-of-shirt sponsor for the second consecutive year.Last season, the Blues played the first seven matches of the season in a plain kit without a sponsor.Chelsea will begin the season without a shirt sponsorInfinite Athlete then stepped in on September 30 and were the main sponsor for the rest of the season – reportedly paying almost £40million for the privilege.But the American sports tech firm can no longer sponsor Chelsea under Premier League rules.Why don’t Chelsea have a shirt sponsor?Chelsea continued wearing Infinite Athlete on the front of their shirts throughout pre-season.It had been believed that they were going to continue at the start of the season but the Premier League has ruled against it as clubs can only have one shirt sponsor during the course of a campaign – although one change is permitted for charity partners.Infinite Athlete will remain a club partner and sponsor and have also agreed to move to be the sleeve sponsor as the Blues chase a more lucrative deal for the main placement.During pre-season, Chelsea had Infinite Athlete on their shirts – but the tech firm has been blocked by the Premier LeagueCryptocurrency exchange BingX was the sleeve sponsor last season but are now the main sponsor for the training kit, which last season was sponsored by Trivago. The hotel booking service’s deal with Chelsea has ended and it will not be renewed.Chelsea’s last long-term front-of-shirt sponsor was Three UK, who had signed a three-year deal worth £40m annually.Most read in FootballThe mobile network cut ties in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine – which also saw Roman Abramovich also forced to sell the club to Todd Boehly, Behdad Egbali and Clearlake Capital.While Three severed their deal with the men’s first team at the end of the 2022-23 season, they remain a club partner and in July became the principle sponsor for the women’s team.Who will sponsor Chelsea this season?It is so far unknown who will become the main sponsor for Chelsea.On the website, American sportswear giant Nike and BingX are listed as ‘principal partners’, while Infinite Athlete is listed as an ‘official partner’, along with a dozen others including Cadbury and Singha.Three, who were once Chelsea men’s front-of-shirt sponsor, will sponsor the women’s team this seasonBingX and Infinite Athlete were previously listed in opposite places on the Chelsea website. With Infinite Athlete expected to be unable to continue, Chelsea had been reported to be in talks with Riyadh Air.However, talks are said to have broken down with the Blues said to be asking for £50m per season.Malaysia Airlines and the Bank of America have also been rumoured to be interested, while the Blues are also said to be in talks with a Chinese tyre manufacturer – although it is not known if this is for the front of the shirt. More

    • 75 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      What is on Pep Guardiola’s T-shirt?

      by

      PEP GUARDIOLA is hoping to lead Manchester City to a fifth successive Premier League title – and his new t-shirt shows that he is ready to do it in style.The Spanish magician will arguably go down as one of the greatest managers for what his teams have achieved on the pitch.Pep Guardiola is known for his bold outfit choicesCredit: RexHowever, his bold outfit choices on the touchline has also caught the eye.And fans have noticed Guardiola’s new t-shirt for the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.What is on Pep Guardiola’s T-shirt?Pep Guardiola has been sporting Puma’s new T-shirt range which says ‘Sports Hydration System’ on the front.It also has a graphic with two people drinking from a water bottle and it says the words ‘kalium, calcium, eissen, magnesium’ underneath it.Read more on Pep GuardiolaThe Puma logo is then below that.Guardiola was first spotted wearing this t-shirt in the 2024 Community Shield finalCredit: AlamyHe was first spotted wearing Puma’s new range of T-shirts during Manchester City’s Community Shield win against noisy neighbours Manchester United.This became a major talking point among fans as team managers often wear suits to a momentous Wembley occasion.What other pieces of bold clothing has Pep Guardiola worn?Lucky grey cardiganMost read in FootballPep’s “lucky” grey cardigan fired Manchester City to the English Treble in the 2018/2019 season.The Spaniard wore it 30 times that season, as the Sky Blues clocked up a record tally of wins in all competitions on their path to Premier League, Carabao Cup and, FA Cup glory.City’s only blip was being knocked out of the Champions League by Spurs.We revealed that Pep Guardiola’s favourite grey cardigan cost him £1,200 and was made by Theresa May’s favourite Italian designer, Herno.Pep had a “lucky” grey cardiganMDCR jumperPep Guardiola’s ‘mdcr’ hoodie caught the eye of a lot of fans during the 2022/23 campaign.The four-letter abbreviation stands for ‘Madchester’, adding to the north-western English city’s reputation as a musical and cultural cauldron, where mad things happen.The term is associated with the music scene from the 1980s and 1990s.Back then, bands like the Stone Roses, Happy Mondays and Inspiral Carpets were running the roost music-wise.And then along came a band called Oasis, fronted by City-loving pair Liam and Noel Gallagher, who changed the face of British music forever.But Madchester was also associated with massive raves and gigs that went on in the city at the time, many of them taking place in warehouses and derelict buildings that had been repurposed for music venues.The ‘mdcr’ jumper was a big hit among fansP hoodiePep Guardiola wore a ‘P’ hoodie during the 2023 FA Cup final win against Manchester United.The Spaniard regularly gets his clothing from a supplier in Spain.Pep wore the ‘P’ hoodie in 2023Open Arms hoodieREAD MORE SUN STORIESGuardiola wore the iconic jumper to promote humanitarian charity Open Arms – the organisation the generous Manchester City boss donated £130,000 to in 2018.The former Barcelona manager donned the hoodie during a clash with Chelsea, Newcastle and Arsenal in the 2020/21 season.Guardiola brought awareness to the Open Arms charity More