Explainers

Subterms

    More stories

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Meet Ahmed Alsanawi: A Star Barbers owner & stylist to Premier League footballers Grealish, Foden, Solanke & James

      by

      AHMED Alsanawi is the founder and owner of A Star Barbers, a high-profile barbershop in Chessington, Surrey.It has become the go-to destination for many professional footballers in need of a new style.Ahmed Alsanawi is the owner of A Star Barbers, which boasts a clientele including some of the biggest footballing stars in the worldCredit: Oliver Dixon – The SunWho is Ahmed Alsanawi?Nicknamed “A-Star”, Ahmed Alsanawi’s journey from a self-taught barber to a stylist for football’s elite is a remarkable story of talent, hard work, and relationship-building.His journey into the world of barbering began with a passion for hairstyling and an entrepreneurial spirit after emigrating to the UK from Iraq in the 2000s.Alongside his wife Tanya, he opened A Star Barbers with the goal of creating a welcoming space where clients could receive quality haircuts and grooming services.Since its establishment in 2013, it has gained a reputation for providing top-notch grooming services.read more on a star barbersThe barbershop quickly became known for its skilled stylists and exceptional service, making it a favourite among local residents and professional athletes alike.It has attracted high-profile clientele — including some of the biggest names in football.A hub for footballersA Star Barbers has established itself as a go-to destination for footballers, particularly those associated with Chelsea due to its proximity to the club’s Cobham Training Centre.Alsanawi cut so many Blues players hair that he earned the nickname “Chelsea’s official barber”.Most read in FootballThe shop’s reputation has grown significantly over the years, thanks to Alsanawi’s talent and ability to connect with his clients.Many players trust him not just for haircuts — but also for styling advice.High-profile clientsJack GrealishJack Grealish is a regular at A Star BarbersCredit: TikTok / @astarbarbersJack Grealish was filmed getting his hair styled at the hairdressers in October 2024.A TikTok clip shared by A Star Barbers shows the star having dye applied, before blonde highlights are unveiled and his hair is blow-dried.Grealish has been a regular client, with Alsanawi regularly maintaining his signature style.In May 2022, he also visited for a trim before Manchester City’s Premier League title celebrations.The playmaker also visited in February of the same year, subsequently sharing a video of the barber shaving his hair, showcasing their close relationship.Romeo BeckhamRomeo Beckham dropped in for a cut in October 2022Credit: InstagramIn October 2022, David Beckham’s son Romeo visited A Star Barbers for a haircut.A clip of the Inter Miami forward was posted on social media after his trim was completed.The barbers’ Instagram account added the caption: “Nice to meet you bro @romeobeckham.”Paul PogbaPaul Pogba flies Alsanawi around the world to cut his hairCredit: Instagram / @paulpogbaPaul Pogba is a long-time client of Alsanawi.The Juventus man stopped by in September 2022 for a new look shocked his former Man U teammate Jesse Lingard.Pogba shared a clip of his haircut on Instagram alongside the caption: “No limit for the new look yeassirr! 🙌🏾🔥.”After A-Star was finished, Pogba jokingly put him in a headlock and gave him a noogie — the barber didn’t look too pleased.Lingard replied in the comments to poke fun at the ex-United star, joking that Pogba was a bully.He said: “Shock A-Star getting bullied again! Fresh trip PP.”In June 2022, Alsanawi gave Pogba a haircut just before his transfer from Manchester United to Juventus, hinting at the move on social media.He also visited the shop in May 2022 for a fresh cut, and there have been reports of Pogba being a client since 2017.The midfielder has even been known to fly Alsanawi to various locations for trims, including to the French national team’s training camp before the 2018 World Cup.Eden HazardAlsanawi flew to Madrid to style HazardIn November 2022, Alsanawi posted a video of himself flying to Madrid to give Hazard a haircut.This wasn’t the first time Alsanawi had travelled for Hazard.In April 2021, during the coronavirus pandemic, he flew to Spain to cut Hazard’s hair.This move unsurprisingly caused some controversy due to travel restrictions.Other notable clientsFoden had his hair cut by Alsanawi during the 2022 World Cup in QatarCredit: InstagramOther superstars of the footballing world to visit A Star Barbers include:Expansion of A Star BarbersAs A Star Barbers gained popularity among professional athletes, Alsanawi decided to expand his business.He opened additional locations while maintaining the same level of quality service that made the original shop successful.The brand now includes multiple outlets catering to a wider clientele while still being closely connected to the world of professional football.Alsanawi hopes to expand the brand globally, with a chain of A Star Barbers located all around the worldCredit: Oliver Dixon – The SunInnovative product rangeIn addition to providing exceptional grooming services, Alsanawi launched a line of haircare products called Fini by A-Star in May 2018.These products are designed specifically for men and feature unique formulations.This expansion into product development showcases Alsanawi’s commitment to enhancing men’s grooming experiences beyond just haircuts.Social media presenceAlsanawi’s work extends beyond the barbershop — he has cultivated a significant social media, where he shares photos of his work and interactions with high-profile clients.His Instagram account often features images of footballers sporting fresh cuts, giving fans an inside look at their favourite players’ grooming routines.Ahmed Alsanawi and his team (left to right) — Huw West, Abdullah Alsanawi, Ahmed Alsanawi and Jake McCoy.Credit: Oliver Dixon – The SunAs of October 11, 2024, Alsanawi’s account @astarbarbers has over a million followers. Chelsea banIn 2017, there were reports that Chelsea had banned Alsanawi from their training ground due to his frequent posting of selfies with players on social media.However, this setback didn’t deter Alsanawi, who continued to build his brand and clientele beyond Chelsea.One of Alsanawi’s proudest achievements was working with the French national team at the 2018 World Cup finals and receiving a shout-out from the players after their victory.He also served as the England team’s on-hand barber in Qatar for the 2022 World Cup.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe futureAlsanawi hopes to expand the brand globally, with a chain of A Star Barbers located all around the world.He continues to work on growing his product line and maintaining his status as one of the most sought-after barbers in the world of sport. More

    • 188 Shares169 Views

      in Boxing

      Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol FULL undercard: Who is fighting on huge Saudi Arabia bill?

      by

      DMITRY BIVOL and Artur Beterbiev are set to face off in a mouthwatering title fight on SATURDAY NIGHT – and the undercard is promising to be one of the best of the year.Beterbiev retained his IBF, WBC and WBO titles earlier this year after punching his way to a TKO victory against Callum Smith.Artur Beterbiev is headlining the show against Dmitry BivolCredit: ReutersWhile Bivol recently dismantled Malik Zinad to hold on to his IBO championshipNow, both heavy hitters will slug it out for the chance to claim all four belts.But there are several thrilling fights taking place on the undercard before the main event.And one is the son of a certain boxing legend who goes by the name of Chris Eubank Snr.Read more on Beterbiev v BivolWho is on the Bivol vs Beterbiev undercard?Chris Eubank Jr makes his highly-anticipated return to the ring to take on Kamil Szeremeta.Chris Eubank Jr is on the huge undercardCredit: GettyFabio Wardley is in British heavyweight action against Frazer Clarke for their highly-anticipated rematch – their previous meeting was among the best fights of the year.Brit Jack Massey takes on cruiserweight king Jai Opetaia and fans’ favourite Ben Whittaker is also back in action.Skye Nicolson puts her WBC Women’s Featherweight title up for grabs with Raven Chapman as the challenger.Most read in BoxingThe show will start at 5pm BST with the first fight set to start at 5.30pm – the main event is expected between 11pm and 11.30pm.Here is the FULL undercard below:How can I watch the undercard?The FULL undercard will be broadcast LIVE on DAZN PPV, TNT Sports and Sky Sports.All three will offer the action as a pay-per-view event – both DAZN and TNT have priced it at £19.99, while Sky have set a slightly cheaper price tag of £19.95.The action will also be available to stream on their apps.In the US, ESPN+ is hosting the action, with the undercard costing $14.99 but the main event free.Alternatively, SunSport will be LIVE BLOGGING all the action from Riyadh as it happens.What has been said?Light-heavyweight legend Roy Jones Jr belives that Dmitry Bivol is going to come out on top in the main event.The former champion said: “No, it’s not a 50/50 fight.READ MORE SUN STORIES”One, Beterbiev is 39 years old, Beterbiev has been down, Bivol has never been down. So, it’s not a 50/50.”Beterbiev has got everything to show me to bring it back to a 50/50 fight. Right now, Bivol has the advantage 60/40.” More

    • 250 Shares159 Views

      in Boxing

      Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol: UK start time, ring walk, live stream, TV channel & undercard for huge undisputed clash

      by

      ARTUR BETERBIEV and Dmitry Bivol will finally clash on Saturday night for the undisputed light-heavyweight titles.The pair were supposed to meet earlier this year, but an injury to Beterbiev put the fight on ice.Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol will clash this weekend in SaudiCredit: GettyDmitry Bivol beat Lyndon Arthur back in DecemberCredit: ReutersArtur Beterbiev had the toughest fight of his career against Anthony Yarde but wonCredit: GettyBeterbiev holds the WBC, IBF and WBO titles at 175lbs, beating the likes of Brit stars Anthony Yarde and Callum Smith on the way.Bivol is the WBA titleholder and is best known for handing Canelo Alvarez the second loss of his career two years ago. Bivol overcame replacement opponent Malik Zinad on June 1, knocking him out in the sixth round to set up a rescheduled bout with Beterbiev.The winner will be defined as the best 175lb fighter of a generation, so there’s plenty more than belts on the line in Riyadh. When is Beterbiev vs Bivol?Beterbiev’s massive clash with Dmitry Bivol will take place on Saturday, October 12.The fight will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Ring-walks for the main event can be expected at around 11.30pm UK time.What channel is it and can it be live streamed?DAZN PPV, Sky Sports Box Office and TNT Sports Box Office will all broadcast Beterbiev vs Bivol.TNT Sports and DAZN have both priced the event at £19.99, while you can purchase the fight on Sky Sports for the slightly cheaper price of £19.95.You can live stream the huge bill on either the DAZN app, discovery+ or Sky Sports Box Office app, depending on which PPV you purchase.Alternatively, you can follow all the action via SunSport’s LIVE BLOG.Full cardWhat has been said?Beterbiev told SunSport: “I take their souls? Ha ha ha. I don’t know.Most read in Boxing”I think they know better so we need to listen to them.”They have felt it, so they know. I just do my work, I just follow my instructions.”I am not a monster. My name is just Artur.”Bivol said: “It’s like I did everything right in my life. Because this is my goal. “This is my dream and the dream could come true. Of course it will show me that I was doing right.”The main thing is that I realise my potential. I have a plan, I want to reach this goal and all of it – that people will recognise me, people will remember me, I will get some belts, it’s just a bonus.”This is the two best light-heavyweight fighters in the world. It’s the undisputed fight and it’s two different boxing styles, two guys that don’t know what a loss is.”This fight would be on my wishlist to watch. All undisputed fights I want to watch, because it’s what makes history. We have a lot of world championship fights, but undisputed fights we could count on our two hands.” More

    • 138 Shares179 Views

      in Boxing

      Is there a rematch clause in Fabio Wardley vs Frazer Clarke?

      by

      FABIO WARDLEY and Frazer Clarke meet again hoping to draw a line under their rivalry.The heavyweight bangers met in a fight of the year contender at the O2 Arena in March and go head-to-head again on the epic undercard of the Dimitry Bivol vs Artur Beterbiev fight.Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke meet again in Saudi ArabiaCredit: GettyThe first fight was an epic that ended in a drawCredit: GettyThe British heavyweight title is on the line once again after the previous contest was ruled a draw.Wardley still carries a huge scar on his nose from the punishment he received from their first war, while Clarke was put down and saved by the bell in round 5.Wardley, the defending champ, is promising to continue the slugfest that gripped boxing – but Clarke has said he won’t be making the same mistakes again.The fight is a massive one for both parties, but will there be a third fight?Is there a rematch clause in Fabio Wardley vs Frazer Clarke?It does NOT appear that a rematch clause has been written into the contract for Wardley vs Clarke 2 – although here has been no public confirmation.There was no rematch clause in the first fight either, but after the controversial draw it took little time for the pair to agree to terms.Despite the lack of a rematch clause in this fight, Frazer Clarke thinks there could be a trilogy fight – and he wants it at Wembley Stadium.Clarke told the Metro: “I think we could see a trilogy.Most read in Boxing”I don’t know what it is about Fabio, but we gel very well. I will win and settle the score. “But as long as people want to see you fight someone, there is always an opportunity to do it again.”I’m hoping to put him to bed, but never say never. There is something about this rivalry, people are excited about it. “So this may not be in the end. We could eventually fight each other again for a world title back home.”I was sat ringside at Wembley a few weeks ago and I just thought, ‘I should be co-main event here’. “The atmosphere was something we have never seen before. If there was a ‘Big Fraze’ ring walk there as well it would have been electric. “I would have felt like a monster.”Frazer Clarke wants a trilogy fight at Wembley StadiumCredit: GettyFrank Warren believes a win for his fighter, Wardley, will put him into contention for “If Fabio wins, he will go into the mix for the next level,” he told Sky Sports.”He will be looking at fights next year against the likes of [Zhilei] Zhang, [Joseph] Parker and those guys. “Maybe fight for a vacant title, maybe be in a mandatory.”Wardley himself hasn’t spoken about the future but is expecting more of the same in fight two: “Just carry it on, carry it on.”High guard, walk forward, smash him up. I got a lot of success in the first fight, loads of success.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’ve watched the fight back so many times and there were so many moments in that fight where I rocked him, had him hurt, had him going and I just followed it up wrong, that’s all.”Don’t get me wrong, I got caught with a few lazy things, got hit in the face – but it’s boxing, we’re not playing badminton.” More

    • 50 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Who was George Baldock?

      by

      THE world has been left in shock following the tragic death of former Premier League ace George Baldock.Wembley are set to hold a minute’s silence for Baldock ahead of England’s match against Greece tonight.George Baldock last played for PanathinaikosCredit: EPATributes have been paid for ex-Sheffield United star George BaldockCredit: GettyAnd the players will wear black armbands in tribute to George who sadly died on Wednesday.Here is what SunSport know about George Baldock.Who was George Baldock?Born March 9, 1993, George Baldock was raised in Buckingham, England.Baldock was of Greek descent through his grandmother and was eligible to represent Greece at an international level as well as England.Read more on George BaldockHe started his footballing career playing for Milton Keynes Dons’ academy team while older brother Sam Baldock played for the senior side.George made his first-team debut for MK Dons on May 1, 2010 in the League One clash with Brighton & Hove Albion which ended in a 0-0 draw.Baldock then joined Northampton on a month’s loan over a year later but June 13, 2017, George made his big breakthrough by signing for newly promoted Championship side Sheffield United.George Baldock spent seven years at Sheffield UnitedCredit: APAnd then in 2019, Baldock helped the Blades secure promotion to the Premier League following a 12-year absence.Most read in FootballThe full-back went on to represent Sheffield United for seven years making more than 219 appearances before his contract would expireThen on May 29, 2024, Baldock joined Greek side Panathinaikos on a three-year contract, making his debut in the Europa League third qualifying round at home to Ajax.What happened to George Baldock?George Baldock was tragically found dead in his swimming pool on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.The former Sheffield United defender was discovered at his home in Greece, where he played for Panathinaikos.Greek media report his wife, who lives in England, was trying to track him down but she couldn’t contact him and started to worry.She then informed the owner of the house in Glyfada, Athens, to check the property, where he was reportedly found dead in the swimming pool.Police are now investigating and were pictured outside his home later in the evening.Family statementBaldock’s family later released a statement following the devastating news.It read: “We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss. We ask please that the media respect our privacy at this time.”While club Panathinaikos added: “We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George.”The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”The Blades also paid tribute to Baldock in a statement that read: “Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff and teammates who pulled on a red and white shirt alongside him.”The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends.” More

    • 225 Shares199 Views

      in Boxing

      Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol fight purse: How much money will both boxers earn for blockbuster Saudi fight?

      by

      ARTUR BETERBIEV and Dmitry Bivol are finally set to battle it out for the undisputed light-heavyweight titles after the postponement – and they’ll be fighting for a huge purse too.Beterbiev, 39, is boxing’s only champion to have a 100% KO-ratio which he has held since November 2017.Both fighter are set for a huge paydayCredit: GettyThe Russian heavy-hitter unified his three belts (WBC, IBF, WBO) in a second-round TKO victory over Joe Smith Jr in 2022 and has successfully defended them twice.But Beterbiev now comes up against the WBA titleholder who is well-known for handing icon Canelo Alvarez only the second loss of his career two years ago.And similar to Beterbiev, Bivol has won all of his previous fights including a June TKO triumph over Malik Zinad.A fight like this deserves a huge purse, and SunSport can reveal how much money each boxer will get.Read more on boxingWhat is the Beterbiev vs Bivol fight purse?The official figures for Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol are yet to be revealed, but both fighters are guaranteed to take home millions.Reports suggest they will make around $10million (£7.6m) each.This could be Beterbiev’s highest purse to date with his previous fight against Callum Smith earning him a winning bid of $2.1m.Bivol’s financial history reveals that he has earned significant purses in his recent fights.Most read in BoxingMost notably his win against Canelo Alvarez which he reportedly took home $5m.What has been said?Artur Beterbiev said he feels young despite his age and the recent injury that caused the initial postponement of the fight.The champ told Fight Hub TV: “I feel young. I’m 39, but I’m young.“As long as everything is going well, I’m enjoying this work, this job. I can’t say. If no injuries, I will continue. “We always prepare for 12 rounds. We never prepare for four rounds or one round. We always prepare for the maximum.”Who is on the Beterbiev vs Bivol undercard? More

    • 200 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Meet Saffie Khan: Model who is expecting a baby with England and Liverpool star Curtis Jones

      by

      SAFFIE KHAN is a model and social media influencer who’s in a relationship with rising Liverpool star Curtis Jones.The couple made headlines with the joyous announcement in May 2024 that they are expecting their first child.Saffie Khan and her partner Curtis Jones, who stars for Liverpool and EnglandCredit: instagram @saffiekhan_Who is Saffie Khan?Saffie Khan has built a substantial following on social media platforms.As of October 10, 2024, she has almost 70k followers on Instagram, where she regularly shares glimpses of her life and modelling work.Her striking looks and fashionable posts have garnered her a dedicated fan base, contributing to her status as an influencer. Saffie is signed to M Models Management and has appeared in various fashion shoots.read more on curtis jonesRelationship with Curtis JonesSaffe and Liverpool and England ace Curtis Jones began dating in 2019, but until recently kept their romance private on social media.Curtis has been a rising star in football since his youth, joining Liverpool’s youth academy in 2010, before being promoted to the first team in 2018 at the age of 17.Jones was a bit-part player when Liverpool won the Premier League in 2020 and the FA Cup in 2022, but has become an important part of the squad in the last two years.His fine form was rewarded with an England call up by Lee Carsley in October 2024, who previously coached Jones when he helped England Under-21s win the U21 Euros in 2023.Most read in FootballJones and Saffie’s romance has become a point of interest for football fans and celebrity-watchers alike.Pregnancy announcementOn May 15, 2024, Saffie and Curtis shared the exciting news of her pregnancy through a joint Instagram post.Fans and players old and new were quick to congratulate the happy couple.Liverpool’s Owen Beck wrote “Congrats to both of you”, while Daniel Sturrage posted “Congrats bro”.Liverpool ace Curtis Jones aims sly dig at Arsenal for ‘stealing their stuff’ after wild celebrations following huge winOther Reds legends who shared their good wishes with the happy couple include Ryan Gravenberch, Bobby Clark, Stefan Bajcetic, Tyler Morton, Rhian Brewster, Rhys Williams and Neco Williams.In October 2024, Saffie shared a pregnancy update on Instagram.She said: “Ready for my autumn baby.”One follower commented: “What a perfect time of year to have a baby too, so much indoor bonding time! You look gorgeous! So excited for you.” Saffie and Curtis revealed they are expecting in an Insta postCredit: instagram @saffiekhan_Another gushed: “Gorgeous lady, so excited for you.” A third added: “So stunning.”Saffie has used Instagram to keep her followers updated on her pregnancy journey.Her openness about the experience has further endeared her to fans.READ MORE SUN STORIESAs they navigate this new phase of their lives, it seems likely that Saffie will continue to share updates and insights through her social media accounts.And her profile is likely to continue rising — both as a model, and as a partner to one of England’s top young footballers. More

    • 100 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Why isn’t Harry Kane starting for England tonight?

      by

      HARRY KANE has been on fire for the Three Lions of late, scoring a brace against Finland last time out.But the England captain and talisman will not be starting against Greece when the match kicks off at 7.45 pm on October 10 — here we take a look at why.Harry Kane went down in the 72nd minute during Bayern’s 3-3 draw with FrankfurtCredit: GettyThe England skipper requred treatment and was replaced by Mathys TelCredit: GettyWhy isn’t Harry Kane starting against Greece?Harry Kane will not be starting the match as a precaution because of a minor knock he picked up while playing in the Bundesliga.He sustained the injury during Bayern Munich’s 3-3 draw with Eintracht Frankfurt on Sunday, October 6, 2024.The Three Lions’ skipper needed 72nd-minute treatment and was replaced by Mathys Tel — just days ahead of two Nations League ties.This came came after Kane hurt his ankle late in a 1-1 home draw with Bayern Leverkusen the week before.read more on harry kaneThe injury prevented him from training with Lee Carsley’s England squad in the run-up to the Greece game, leading to his exclusion from the starting lineup for the Nations League match.The exact nature of the injury has not been reported.What Lee Carsley said about KaneInterim England manager Lee Carsley is taking a cautious approach with Kane’s fitness.He also confirmed Kane was doing individual training sessions on the Tuesday and Wednesday before the match.Most read in FootballCarsley said: “Harry’s nursing an injury, a small knock. Something that we won’t take a chance with.””We’re not ruling him out yet of the game, but he won’t start the game.”Hopefully he’ll be in contention then for Sunday (against Finland) but, again, time will tell.”It’s not something I think we should be rushing.”So while Kane won’t be starting the match, he hasn’t been ruled out completely.I think it’s important that we put them [the players] first rather than ourselvesLee CarsleyThere’s still a possibility he could be available as a substitute, though this remains uncertain.The team is hopeful that Kane may be able to play against Finland on October 13.Importance of cautionThis careful management of Kane’s injury is particularly important given his history of injuries.Over the years, Kane has dealt with various issues, including ankle, knee and hamstring problems.The team’s cautious approach aims to protect his long-term fitness and ensure he’s available for crucial matches in the future.What else do we know about the squad?Carsley confirmed that John Stones will step in to captain England for the first time as he picks up his 82nd cap.He also mentioned that Tino Livramento and Curtis Jones have been moved up from the under-21s and will be in the squad.The FA gave an update on Kane, and also Jack Grealish: “Harry Kane continued his individualised programme at St George’s Park on Wednesday [October 9] while Jack Grealish also sat out of training as a precaution with a minor knock.”Carsley emphasised a cautious approach with player fitness, stating: “I think it’s important that we put them [the players] first rather than ourselves.”READ MORE SUN STORIESHe also mentioned the abundance of options the national side is currently blessed with: “There were a lot of players who were close to this squad. With the talent we have available, it would have been possible to pick a 40-man squad and justify having them all in.”The challenge is making sure we pick a competitive squad and a squad that can win the two games.” More