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      Chelsea target Edouard Mendy was unemployed at 22 and almost quit football after snub by a League One club

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      CHELSEA are looking to continue their remarkable spending spree this summer by adding Edouard Mendy to their squad.
      The giant Senegal goalie, who stands at 6ft 6in tall, is on the verge of joining the West London giants for £25million, according to reports.

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      Edouard Mendy has enjoyed a remarkable career turn-aroundCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Should the deal go through, it would complete a remarkable turn-around in the life of the 28-year-old stopper.
      It was only six years ago that Mendy, the cousin of Real Madrid star Ferland Mendy, was unemployed after his contract expired with French fourth tier side Cherbourg.
      And after a deal with a League One club collapsed, it appeared his days as a professional footballer were over.
      ON THE SCRAP HEAP
      Mendy was just 22 when his deal with Cherbourg expired.

      Wanting to take on a new challenge, he was offered contracts by other clubs.
      But it was the temptation of moving across the channel to an unknown League One side that seemed the most attractive.
      The player’s former agent gave him assurances a deal was done, however Mendy soon discovered the job offer didn’t work out.
      It left the promising talent club-less, unemployed and queuing at the job centre.

      Away from the game for the year, Mendy was forced to consider quitting football to do something else.

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      Mendy was unemployed at 22 after being released by a fourth division French clubCredit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun Glasgow

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      With his future up in the air, Mendy contemplated quitting the game
      “For a football player or anybody else, being unemployed is like getting slapped across the face,” Mendy told So Foot magazine.
      “Repeated failures leave marks on you, and you start thinking that maybe you are not made for it.”
      REDEMPTION
      With his confidence severely dented, Mendy returned to the club where it all began for him as a youth player, Le Havre.
      He trained religiously for a year, unpaid, until a former team-mate told him that Marseille were looking for a goalkeeper to replace reserves Julien Fabri and Brice Samba, who were sent out on loan.
      Mendy scored a trial with the 1993 European Cup winners and was signed as a fourth choice keeper.
      There, he worked with French international Steve Mandanda and played in the B side.
      “I reached a new level in Marseille,” he revealed.
      “I trained with the pros throughout the year, which you normally would not expect as a No. 4 ‘keeper.

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      Mendy has blossomed into a Senegal international

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      Standing at 6ft 6in tall, Mendy is a commanding presence in his own boxCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      “It was proof that I performed well and made all the efforts required. It was a rewarding year.
      “Training alongside players like Lassana Diarra, Abou Diaby… and winning duels against Steven Fletcher or Michy Batshuayi brought a lot to me.”
      MAKING OF THE MAN
      In search of regular playing time, Mendy moved to Ligue 2 outfit Reims in 2016.
      It was time for him to finally make his breakthrough in the game.
      When first-choice keeper Johann Carrasso was sent off, Mendy got his opportunity.
      Seven games and three clean sheets later, a star was born.
      Mendy became first-choice in 2017-18, and helped the club gain promotion to Ligue 1.
      RENNES TO CHELSEA?
      It was only last summer that Mendy signed for Rennes for a fee of £3.5million.

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      Mendy is on the verge of signing for Chelsea for £25millionCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      Chelsea legend Petr Cech reportedly recommended Mendy to the BluesCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      Mendy kept nine clean sheets in Ligue 1 last seasonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      And his rise has been rapid.
      He helped his new club finish in the top three in France’s top division last season.
      More importantly, Rennes qualified for the Champions League thanks to his exploits.

      Commanding between the sticks, late-developer Mendy kept nine clean sheets in their incredible season.
      In fact, he was so good Chelsea club legend Petr Cech is said to have told the Blues to pull out all the stops to sign him.
      Could he be the final piece in the jigsaw to make Frank Lampard’s men genuine title contenders?

      Go behind the scenes as Kai Havertz becomes Chelsea’s sixth signing of the summer More

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      Phil Foden became dad at 18 with childhood sweetheart Rebecca Cooke and Man City ace bought £2m home for his parents

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      MAN CITY and England star Phil Foden has been talked about as a future superstar for years.
      But, in truth, the outrageously talented midfielder has done a lot of growing up since he made his City debut aged just 17.

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      Man City hero Phil Foden became a dad at 18 to son RonnieCredit: Instagram @philfoden

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      Foden came of age in the Carabao Cup final win over Aston VillaCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      On a fishing holiday in Spain Foden caught a a 130lb catfishCredit: Instagram @philfoden
      Foden, now 20, became a dad a year after he made his bow for his boyhood club.
      The wonderkid welcomed a son, Ronnie, with long-term girlfriend Rebecca Cooke, and he dedicated his MOTM display yesterday to him on Twitter.
      And just a few months before he penned a £30,000-per-week deal that ties him to the Etihad till 2024 in 2018, he splashed £2MILLION on a home for his parents.
      There was only one snag to him becoming a dad so young… Foden had to sacrifice his love of fishing, for now.

      FAMILY COMES FIRST
      In January 2019, the birth of his first child changed Foden’s life.
      He had already been dating Wag Rebecca, also 19, for some time but they kept their romance under wraps.
      Foden – who made his England debut in the 1-0 win over Iceland last week – admitted he shed a tear when his son arrived.
      “I was there for the birth,” he told Manchester City’s official website.

      “I walked out of the room, gave it a little tear and then went back in like nothing happened.

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      In January 2019 Foden and long-term girlfriend Rebecca Cooke became teenage parents

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      Son Ronnie changed Foden’s life completelyCredit: Instagram @philfoden
      “I’m not one for crying in front of people. I like to be on my own, but I was there in the room, watched it happen and it was a special moment.”
      GETTING SOME PERSPECTIVE
      His team-mates told Foden that it would be the best thing that ever happened to him, but being a dad wasn’t going to be easy.
      But, if he has a bad game or training session, having Ronnie at home does make things better and puts things into perspective.
      Away matches, however, mean he doesn’t get to spend as much time with his son as he would like.
      Foden revealed: “If you have a bad game or a bad session, you’re disappointed, but now I think about the bigger picture.
      “I go home and see him smiling, so there’s more important things than worrying about one bad session.
      “You look at things in a different way when you’ve got a kid.
      “Honestly, I’m really enjoying it, but I find it quite difficult, always having away games and being away from him. He’s one now, so he’s missing me a bit.
      “There are things you miss when you’re not there because you’ve got an away game.
      “I was there when he started crawling, but I think I was in London when he started to walk.
      “Now he’s getting about and walking everywhere, so you have to have eyes in the back of your head or he starts running off.

      Phil Foden scores amazing free kick for England U21 against Albania

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      Fatherhood hasn’t been easy for FodenCredit: Instagram @philfoden

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      Foden revealed he misses Ronnie whenever Manchester City are playing awayCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      “It’s unfortunate to miss things like that but it’s a sacrifice that he’ll appreciate when he’s older.”
      HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS
      Foden was raised by dad Phil and mum Claire in Edgeley, a modest Stockport suburb – far removed from the affluent towns and villages of Cheshire, nicknamed the Golden Triangle, where his team-mates now live.
      But as soon as Foden had established himself in Pep Guardiola’s squad, he set out to repay his parents for helping him achieve his dreams of becoming a footballer.
      The starlet spent £2m on a luxury home in Bramhall, near Stockport, where the family all live together.
      Often, he’s seen walking around the neighbourhood with Rebecca, pushing Ronnie in a pram, while dribbling a ball at his feet on the streets.
      Like any teenage boy (and Premier League footballer), he loves gaming and has always preferred nights in playing Fifa over clubbing at one of Manchester’s famous nightspots.

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      Foden treated his parents to a £2m home in Manchester months before singing a new dealCredit: Instagram @philfoden

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      Foden (left) grew up in modest surroundings in StockportCredit: Instagram @philfoden

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      As a boy Foden grew up supporting Manchester CityCredit: Instagram @philfoden

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      It was Foden’s dream to play for CityCredit: Instagram @philfoden
      FAST CARS? NO, HE LOVES FISHING
      Modest for a man expected to be England’s next big thing, ‘Pep’s Lad’ also christened the ‘Stockport Iniesta’ by City fans has an unexpected hobby.
      Although he’s had to put his love of fishing on the back-burner, with his time dedicated to Ronnie, he loves nothing more than catching carp with his pals.
      Foden would even trek to Spain, where once hooked a 130lb catfish.
      “I was probably about six or seven and my dad had a fishing rod of his dad’s and said we should go and try it out,” he recalled.
      “I fell in love with it and we ended up going every weekend. I still remember my first catch.
      “It wasn’t very big, I was just learning, but it’s the excitement of when you get one for the first time.
      “I think that’s the buzz that makes you want to go again, but it’s also a chance to chill and relax and to spend time with my dad.
      “I think it’s really good after games when you have to rest your legs and I just find it really enjoyable.

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      Instead of collecting cars, Foden loves fishingCredit: Instagram @philfoden

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      When he was six, Foden’s father introduced him to anglingCredit: Instagram @philfoden

      “There’s tactics. Knowing in which spots to fish, knowing where the fish are, fishing at different lengths…
      “There’s a lot behind it but when I get the odd day off, I fish simple. I’m not a specialist at it but I still manage to catch
      “I generally love all types of sport, but I don’t do any others apart from fishing.”

      Pep Guardiola says Phil Foden is the ONLY Man City player he would never sell… even for €500m More

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      Estelle Bergkamp is the stunning daughter of Arsenal legend Dennis and is the girlfriend of Man Utd target van de Beek

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      DONNY van de Beek is on the verge of joining Manchester United for £40million, after the Red Devils agreed a fee with Ajax.
      But many years ago his Wag’s dad used to view the Premier League giants as a fearsome rival.

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      Estelle Bergkamp is the daughter of Arsenal legend DennisCredit: https://www.instagram.com/estellebergkamp/?hl=en

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      Dennis Bergkamp’s daughter now dates Man Utd target Donny van de BeekCredit: https://www.instagram.com/estellebergkamp/?hl=en

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      The Bergkamp family with daughter EstelleCredit: https://www.instagram.com/estellebergkamp/?hl=en
      The 23-year-old midfielder dates Dennis Bergkamp’s daughter, Estelle, 24.
      They met in Amsterdam and a relationship between the pair soon blossomed.
      And now it looks like she could be joining Donny in Manchester.
      EARLY YEARS IN LONDON
      Bergkamp was one year into his Arsenal career, when he welcomed Estelle into the world with wife Henrita.

      She was born in London, where Dennis would stay for 11 years and win three Premier League titles with the Gunners.
      In fact, when she was a small girl she joined her dad on the pitch at Highbury and was snapped holding the Premier League trophy.
      Football has always been in her family, so it was no surprise that she would soon start dating a footballer.
      A NEW DUTCH MASTER
      Last summer, Estelle and van de Beek began dating.

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      Estelle was originally born in LondonCredit: https://www.instagram.com/estellebergkamp/?hl=en

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      Dennis Bergkamp won three Premier League titles with Arsenal in 11 yearsCredit: https://www.instagram.com/estellebergkamp/?hl=en

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      Estelle soon moved to Amsterdam after her dad hung up his bootsCredit: https://www.instagram.com/estellebergkamp/?hl=en

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      Since becoming an item van de Beek and Estelle have become travel buddiesCredit: https://www.instagram.com/estellebergkamp/?hl=en

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      The loved-up pair enjoyed a romantic break in ParisCredit: https://www.instagram.com/estellebergkamp/?hl=en
      Initially, they kept their romance under wraps, however the allure of showing off their happiness on Instagram was too much to resist.
      Last Christmas, the pair shared a romantic snap cuddling in front of a Christmas tree.
      She captioned the cute pic: “Merry christmas from us.”
      ROMANTIC HOLIDAYS
      Since they became an item, Estelle and Donny have become best travel buddies.

      And, of course, they’ve taken us on their adventures through snapshots on social media.
      The pair can be seen in various clenches in destinations as glamorous as Ibiza and the South of France.
      Next stop, it appears, will be Manchester.

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      Estelle and van de Beek celebrated Christmas together last year

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      The Dutch beauty is often seen on a glamorous holiday Credit: https://www.instagram.com/estellebergkamp/?hl=en

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      Estelle celebrated her dad being a Premier League champion on the Highbury pitch

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      Estelle could soon be headed to Manchester with boyfriend van de BeekCredit: https://www.instagram.com/estellebergkamp/?hl=en More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd transfer target van de Beek was spotted by Arsenal legend Bergkamp at 10, but his mum wanted him to be a farmer

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      AJAX sensation Donny van de Beek is on the verge of a £40million move to Manchester United, according to reports.
      The Dutch attacking midfielder, who was once close to joining Real Madrid, has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the game, and was a vital cog in the side that reached the Champions League semi-finals in 2019.

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      Donny van de Beek is on the verge of a £40m move to Man UtdCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      Bergkamp coached van de Beek when he was 10
      Last season he continued where he left off from the campaign before that, scoring 10 times in 37 games.
      One of his standout performances came in a 4-4 draw at Stamford Bridge, where he scored in the Champions League group tie.
      And the 23-year-old would be the first to admit that he couldn’t have done it without his mentor, Dennis Bergkamp.
      The Arsenal legend spotted the future star’s potential when he was youth coach with the Eredivisie giants – and Van de Beek was just 10.

      Bergkamp helped mould the playmaker into the player he is today.
      But, if his mum had it her way, he would most likely being working on a farm.
      THE BOY DON GOOD
      Former Ajax boss Frank de Boer, who promoted Bergkamp as his assistant, once said: “Dennis started talking enthusiastically about a talent in his youth team.
      “It was a boy who reminded Dennis of himself at that age.

      “That was the signal for me to keep an eye on that guy. That was Donny.”
      Ruben Jongkind, a former head of talent development at the Ajax academy, also recalled Bergkamp’s glowing endorsement.
      Jongkind told the Daily Mail: “Bergkamp was the one who saw when he was 10, ‘This is going to be a great player.’
      “I said, “I didn’t see it, how did you know?”‘

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      Bergkamp believed van de Beek shared similar characteristics as him on the pitchCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      A FARM HAND
      Today, Van de Beek might be one of Europe’s biggest talents. However, if his mum Gerdina had it her way he would be a farmer.
      The Holland international is from Nijkerk, an area of the Netherlands that’s more famous for agriculture and farming than producing cultured midfielders.
      And as a boy he lived on a farm, often helping out with daily chores including making sure live stock were fed.
      Gerdina wasn’t a fan of sport, and seeing her son climbing trees instead of playing with a ball made her think he was destined for rearing cattle instead of gracing the Johan Cruyff arena.
      But father Andre had other ideas, and he signed his son up to play for Veensche Boys.
      “After the first training session, he was completely sold and the ball never disappeared from his life,” Andre told AjaxShowtime in 2016.
      By the time he was 10, Van de Beek had clubs including Utrecht, Feyenoord and PSV clamouring to sign him.
      He chose Ajax because his family had season tickets with the club.

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      Coming from a farming background a football career seemed unlikely for Van de BeekCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      HE NEEDED STRENGTH
      Immediately, when he arrived at the academy Jongkind knew where Van de Beek had to improve.
      “We put him under a system of pretty rigorous physical training. He needed that. He came from farmers,” the youth coach said.
      “That area of Holland has pretty strong farmers there. But he needed to transfer that to the field.
      “He was benefiting from the performance department a lot. We got in people from American Football and from Judo.”
      A CRUYFF TURN
      Dad Andre knew Van de Beek was destined for stardom, when his own footballing idol told him how good a player his son was.
      The ambitious father was rendered speechless when Ajax legend Johan Cruyff told him in a meeting about the player’s qualities.

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      The late Johan Cruyff told van de Beek’s dad that his son was a special talentCredit: Getty – Contributor

      “Johan said: ‘I know your son, yes,'” Andre revealed.
      “That is Donny Van de Beek,”He is good at this and good at that…
      “He was able to tell everything. Do you know how strange it is that your idol knows everything about your son? He was able to tell everything down to the smallest detail.”

      Wayne Rooney says Messi can win Ballon d’Or at Man Utd or Man City if he joins the Premier League More

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      Footballers’ incredible body transformations from Ronaldo building muscle to Hazard losing excess weight

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      FOOTBALLERS today will do anything to get an edge over their opponents.
      And that means more work in the gym, sculpting their perfect bodies and lifting heavy weights to gain extra muscle.

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      Cristiano Ronaldo is sculpted like an AdonisCredit: AFP or licensors
      But these stars didn’t always look like body builders.
      In fact, these athletes have enjoyed a remarkable body transformation over the years, even when they can’t train like they’re used to during the coronavirus lockdown.
      EDEN HAZARD
      When former Chelsea star Hazard moved to Real Madrid last summer for a deal worth £130million, Los Blancos were delighted.
      But they wouldn’t have been happy when he turned up to training seven kilograms overweight.

      Even fans pointed out he looked chunky when he reported for preseason games.
      However, during the coronavirus lockdown Hazard took his fitness very seriously.
      “It’s complicated for me. I’m trying not to eat a lot,” he told RTBF.
      “I’m trying not to go into the pantry to eat a lot of buns, but it’s not easy.”

      It appears he laid off the buns –  impressing manager Zinedine Zidane at the club’s training centre with a new svelte figure.

      When Eden Hazard arrived at Real Madrid he was seven kilograms overweightCredit: Twitter @realmadrid

      Hazard impressed Zidane by laying off the buns during the coronavirus lockdownCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      CRISTIANO RONALDO
      As a youngster, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner was often called too skinny by his coaches.
      But through the years, Ronaldo went from lanky winger to powerhouse forward thanks to a strict exercise regime.
      “I put it in my mind that my body can improve,” Ronaldo said.
      “With dedication and hard work in the gym I improved a lot on that – at the end of the day it’s down to the person’s mindset.”
      A Pilates-based routine that focuses on resistance work to strengthen his core is also key to his success – reportedly giving the Portuguese star the body of a 23-year-old.

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      Ronaldo used to be called too skinny when he was an up and coming youngsterCredit: AFP

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      Thanks to a strict diet and rigorous exercise regime Ronaldo has transformed his bodyCredit: Getty – Contributor
      MARCUS RASHFORD
      When Rashford emerged on the scene in 2017 as a fresh-faced 19-year-old, his body was still developing.
      But having Cristiano Ronaldo as a role model at the club when he was a youngster was a big help.
      The striker watched Ronaldo in training closely, adding strength and conditioning work to the technical training he does at Carrington, which has given him a more muscular physique today.

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      When Marcus Rashford first emerged on the scene in 2017 he was skin and boneCredit: Reuters

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      Today, with added strength and conditioning training Rashford has bulked upCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI
      The Bayern Munich striker has been sensational for the Bavarian giants, and it’s all down to his nutritionist wife Anna.
      Through his diet, as well as rigorous training regime with the Bundesliga champions, he is now the perfect specimen.
      “We changed our diet step by step, first cutting out sweets and then milk,” Lewandowski explained.
      “Cows’ milk and soya milk isn’t good for me. Almond milk and rice milk is OK. I don’t really drink alcohol, either. Maybe wine but only sometimes.”

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      When he started his career at Lech Poznan Lewandowski was skinnyCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      Lewandowski now flashes killer abs thanks to a diet enforced by his nutritionist wife AnnaCredit: Instagram @_rl9
      ADAMA TRAORE
      A devastating blend of pace and power, Traore’s game has come on leaps and bounds.
      And social media blew up when snaps of the Wolves winger emerged showing off a raging bicep that would’ve put any Hollywood action hero to shame.
      But despite his rippling muscles, Traore insists he doesn’t do any weight training.
      “My training? I don’t do weights,” he told Spanish outlet La Sexta.
      “It’s hard to believe, but I don’t do weights.
      “It’s genetic. I exercise, but I gain mass very quickly.”

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      Spanish winger Adama Traore was a slight winger playing for Spain’s U16 teamCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      Today, blossoming at Wolves, Traore is henchCredit: Getty – Contributor
      ADEBAYO AKINFENWA
      You don’t get the nickname ‘The Beast” for nothing, as well as a 98 strength rating in FIFA 20.
      Football’s strongest man Akinfenwa ruffles defenders feathers playing for Wycombe Wanderers in League One.
      To fuel his weights sessions, the striker eats like a beast too, although his weight does go up and down.
      “Breakfast is Weetabix with honey,” he told the Daily Mail.
      “At training there will be some kind of chicken. Our chef personally does chicken for me and that makes me very happy.
      “Then a shake in the afternoon. For dinner, again it’s probably chicken, potato and coleslaw. My partner is half-Nigerian, half-Caribbean so it may be the curry goat, rice and potato. It’s the carbs I need to eat.
      “I throw in the odd Nando’s. Quarter-chicken, medium breast, chips, corn on the cob and five wings. I don’t deviate.”

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      Adebayo Akinfenwa had a smaller frame during his time at NorthamptonCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      Akinfenwa is now nicknamed The Beast because of his enormous size
      HULK
      The aptly named Brazilian striker has always been admired for his physical stature.
      Built like a truck, Hulk is still terrorising defenders in the Chinese Super League playing for Shanghai SIPG.
      But there was a time when the former Porto star looked a little overweight, rather than chiselled.
      He has toned up now, and looks fitter than his 34-years suggest.

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      At Porto Hulk was a little rounder and squarerCredit: AFP – Getty

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      Now plying his trade in China, Hulk is leaner, more muscular and fit as a fiddle
      SERGIO RAMOS
      The Real Madrid defender’s Instagram account is littered with videos of high-intensity workout videos.
      When he was at Sevilla, he was just a beanpole of a defender. Now, he’s the real deal.
      “My training routines at home are usually focused on functional and isometric exercises, always ending with some cardio work,” he revealed.
      And for Sergio, a healthy breakfast is the perfect to start the day.
      He revealed: “I usually take a coffee, some whole-grain bread with protein like turkey breast or a poached egg, and a piece of fruit.”

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      When he began his career at Sevilla, Ramos was a beanpole of a defenderCredit: EPA

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      Ramos is now one of the most chiselled footballers around
      GEORGE ELOKOBI
      There’s no doubt about it, Elokobi is hench.
      The former Wolves star, now playing for National League side Maidstone United, was always a crowd favourite because of his size.
      At only 5ft 9inches, he isn’t the tallest. But he earned the nickname of ‘The Body’ at Molineux because he was pure muscle.
      The defender even stripped down to his smalls on the catwalk during a charity fashion show at the club.

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      Former Wolves star George Elokobi was nicknamed ‘The Body’

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      Elokobi even stripped down to his smalls to show off his six-pack for a charity fashion showCredit: Matthew Ashton
      MARIO BALOTELLI
      The fiery former Manchester City striker was always tall and lean.
      But after celebrating scoring for Italy against Germany in Euro 2012, he was keen to show off a ripped torso as he flexed his muscles shirtless.
      However, the normally fit Balotelli was anything but in 2018 when he returned to training for Nice reportedly two stone overweight when a move to Marseille collapsed.
      He soon dropped half a stone and was back to normal.

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      When Mauro Balotelli first emerged on the scene he was leanerCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      At Euro 2012 Balotelli flexes his muscles after scoring against GermanyCredit: Corbis – Getty

      ALEXIS SANCHEZ
      The Inter Milan striker takes his training very seriously.
      Former Manchester United star Sanchez enjoys working out on the training ground alone, and shared a video online strutting his stuff at their Carrington training ground to the famous Rocky theme ‘Eye of the Tiger’ last year.
      Sanchez has also been seen in the past enjoying sprint drills on the beach. After all, even though it is pre-season you can’t down tools in the summer.
      Standing at 5ft 6in, the former Gunner knows he needs strength as an attribute for his game to thrive. And he looks the business.

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      Alexis Sanchez has worked hard on building his muscle massCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      Sanchez is happy to share his extra workouts on InstagramCredit: Instagram @alexis_officia1

      Wolves star Adama Traore sported a shirt on Wednesday without the club’s sponsor on the front More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Lionel Messi’s luxurious Barcelona lifestyle with modern £5.5m mansion, £26m hotel and stunning car collection

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      THE unthinkable may be about to happen.
      Dismayed by life at Barcelona, Lionel Messi’s days at the Camp Nou appear to be numbered.

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      Messi has built an incredible lifestyle in Barcelona
      The Argentine ace, 33, has handed in a transfer request and wants to leave the La Liga giants, after spending his entire career with the Catalans.
      Both Manchester clubs and PSG are watching with interest, and the forward has reportedly contacted former mentor Pep Guardiola asking to join him in the Premier League.
      But what will Messi be leaving behind? Here’s a glimpse into his amazing life in Catalonia.
      HIS HOME
      Boasting sea views and being in a no-fly zone, Messi’s abode – valued at £5.5milion – in Barcelona offers a tranquil experience.

      Located in the exclusive suburb of Castelldefels, it’s the perfect spot for the six-time Ballon d’Or winner to reside.
      And he bought himself privacy by splashing out on his neighbour’s home, according to team-mate Ivan Rakitic.
      Just 12 miles away from the Camp Nou, Messi’s home has a small football pitch, a swimming pool, an indoor gym and a playground for his three children.
      There’s also the incredible sight of the Balearic Sea to wake up to every day – you won’t get that in Manchester, Paris or London.

      Luiz Suarez and Philippe Coutinho live nearby, should a team debriefing be needed.

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      The Messis live in a stunning mansion in the exclusive suburb of CastelldefelsCredit: Instagram @antoroccuzzo88

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      The home boasts a stunning and spacious loungeCredit: Instagram @antoroccuzzo88

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      Messi has a room dedicated to a collection of shirts in his home

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      Football is always on the TV and the family can keep warm by the fireCredit: Instagram @antoroccuzzo88

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      Messi often plays football in his garden with his Dogue de Bordeaux called HulkCredit: Instagram @leomessi

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      The Messi family regularly congregate in the kitchenCredit: Instagram @leomessi

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      Family comes first for MessiCredit: Instagram @antoroccuzzo88
      HOTEL
      With tourism being a huge trade in Barcelona, Messi has invested his money shrewdly.
      Like his footballing rival Cristiano Ronaldo, he has become a hotelier and bought a £26million hotel in the coastal town of Sitges – some 26 miles from the city.
      The four-star Hotel MiM Sitges is just 100m from the sea, has 77 bedrooms, including five junior suites and one suite, and costs around £105-per-night during high season to stay in a standard room.
      On top of that, there’s the rooftop Sky Bar that boasts panoramic views of the town and Mediterranean Sea, as well as a pool.
      If you’re looking unwind even further, there’s a top-of-the-range spa that features a sauna, Turkish bath, sensory showers, a recreational pool, a cold plunge tub and a saltwater pool.

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      Messi owns the Hotel MiM Sitges

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      Sitges is a stunning coastal town just 26 miles from the city

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      The hotel cost Messi around £26millionCARS
      With a reported wealth of £310million, Messi could probably afford to send his car collection over with him wherever he goes.
      The pick of his motors, said to be worth around £3million, is a £1.5million Pagani Zonda.
      He also has a penchant for Maserati, with a £100,000 GranTurismo S and a GranTurismo MC Stradale in his garage.
      Messi has also been seen driving a Ferrari F43 Spider worth £173,000.
      Although with Barcelona’s deal with Audi ending last year, there were no more freebies from the German car giants.

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      Messi boasts a car collection reportedly worth £3millionCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      A rare Pagani Zonda worth £1.5million is the jewel of his car collectionCredit: Handout

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      Messi seen behind the wheel of a Range RoverCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      Messi loves Maseratis and has two different GranTurismosCredit: Xposure

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      Barcelona’s sponsorship deal with Audi has since expiredCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      THE TRAINING GROUND
      Every day Messi hones his skills at the state-of-the-art Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper.
      Since 2009, Barcelona have made this their training ground. It also acts as a multi-sport pavilion for the other sports teams at the club, including basketball, futsal, and handball.
      After training, Messi and Co can use the gym, sauna, and a full-sized pool – all aiding their recuperation.
      Costing roughly around £65million, there are also living quarters where future Barcelona prospects border.
      It was named in honour of Joan Gamper, the founder of the Spanish club.

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      Messi trains at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan GamperCredit: FC Barcelona

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      The Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper boasts state-of-the-art facilitiesCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      The facility boasts several training pitchesCredit: FC Barcelona

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      Barcelona’s professional basketball team is also based hereCredit: FC Barcelona

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      Barcelona’s stars are put through their pacesCredit: Rex Features
      LOVE OF HIS LIFE
      Barcelona shares a special place in the heart of Messi and his wife Antonella Roccuzzo.
      Although they were childhood friends in Rosario, Argentina, Messi and Roccuzzo’s love blossomed in the Spanish city in 2009.
      They’ve set up camp, not only with a beautiful home and life, but three sons too – Thiago, Mateo and Ciro all Spanish-born.

      There’s no doubt the pair would return to Argentina.
      After all, they shared their nuptials in their homeland in Rosario in a glitzy ceremony attended by Barcelona legends Xavi Hernandez, Carles Puyol and Samuel Eto’o.
      Would you turn your back on this lifestyle for a rainy day at Stoke?

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      Antonella Roccuzzo is Messi’s love of his lifeCredit: Instagram, @antoroccuzzo88

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      The stunning Wag was a childhood friend of Messi’s from RosarioCredit: Splash News

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      The Messi family have settled in SpainCredit: Instagram @antonelaroccuzzo

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      Will the Messi family move from Barcelona?Credit: Splash News More

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      in Soccer

      How Lionel Messi’s life would compare in London, Manchester, Paris and Milan as he prepares to move from Barcelona

      by

      LIONEL MESSI is set to leave Barcelona with a host of Europe’s top clubs looking to secure his signing.
      Premier League giants Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea are all said to be possible suitors for the Argentinian ace.

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      Lionel Messi’s next choice of club will have more to do with the lifestyle he leads than money
      While Champions League runners-up PSG and AC Milan are also said to be interested in adding the mercurial forward to their ranks.
      But for Messi, already worth around £320million, a move from the Camp Nou is not money-orientated – not that the Barça legend has ever cared about that either.
      Instead, his decision could be dictated by the lifestyle he and his wife Antonella Roccuzzo and their three children want to live.
      Here’s what each city could offer.

      FASHION
      Although London boasts Bond Street and Paris has fashion week, it’s Milan that’s known as the shopping capital of the world.
      The biggest designers from Gucci to Prada and Armani to Dolce & Gabbana have their boutiques filled with the latest high-end clobber.
      And they can all be found in the stunning setting of Via Montenapoleone – THE shopping street of Milan.
      In 2018, it was called Europe’s most expensive street.

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      Milan’s famous for its world class shopping

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      Designer stores like Versace can be found in the stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

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      Milan is called the fashion capital of the world
      Milan’s finest are often seen shopping there.
      WINNER: MILAN
      PROPERTY
      Messi loves to live privately, away from the hustle and bustle of a big city.
      In Barcelona, his £5.5million luxury mansion sits in the exclusive suburb of Castelldefels – some 12 miles away from the Nou Camp.
      And should he move to Stamford Bridge, like many of Chelsea’s stars he would head towards Surrey and shun the shiny King’s Road.
      With the club’s training ground being on the outskirts of Cobham in the Elmbridge borough, he would most certainly look at property in Oxshott.
      The average price of a mansion there is around £4.5million, well within Messi’s budget.
      Houses on the Crown Estate are said to be the most desirable for Chelsea’s millionaires.
      WINNER: LONDON

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      Oxshott homes are the most desired by Chelsea’s millionaires

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      Chelsea’s stars are often seen parked on Oxshott high street

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      Oxshott offers lush, green surroundings and privacy

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      Properties found in the exclusive and private Crown Estate are the most valuable and prestigious

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      Messi and his family currently life in a mansion in the private Barcelona suburb of Castelldefels
      FOOD
      For Messi, food is key to performance.
      After all, to get to the top he modified a diet of pizza and slabs of beef and fine-tuned it to fish, chicken and vegetables to get the best out of his body.
      But every now and again, should he want to treat Antonella to a date night, Paris offers the best and most romantic restaurants in the world.
      The hottest table in the French capital is Septime – rated as the 15th best restaurant in the world.
      Their special, Duck filet with Guéthary anchovies and laurel-infused jus, is a must.
      WINNER: PARIS

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      The hottest table for dining in Paris can be found at the Septime restaurant

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      Septime is rated as the 15th best restaurant in the world

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      Messi’s strict diet will fit in line with French cuisine
      FRIENDS
      If it’s to be close to his pals, Manchester would be Messi’s ideal destination.
      But it would have to be with the blue half, with Argies not faring so well at United – think Juan Sebastian Veron and Angel Di Maria.
      And at City he would find bestie Sergio Aguero, who will happily be his guide to the city.
      International team-mate Nicolas Otamendi should also be on hand to advise the gifted NO10.
      While he would also be back working under mentor Pep Guardiola.
      WINNER: MANCHESTER

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      Messi and Man City striker Sergio Aguero are close mates

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      Aguero would be able to offer advice about life in Manchester

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      A move to Man City could see Messi reunited with his mentor Pep Guardiola
      CULTURE
      In fairness, you can find culture in all these cities.
      But Paris is, essentially, the culture capital of the world thanks to its landmarks, architecture, and brilliant art museums.
      There’s the world-famous Louvre – so good they built a second one in Abu Dhabi under the instruction of UAE crown prince Mohammed bin Zayed.
      At the Paris Louvre, he could see the world famous Mona Lisa painted by Leonardo da Vinci.
      The sight of the Eiffel Tower is still one to behold in the flesh too.
      And the Palais Garnier, a 1,979-seat opera house, sees some of the best opera performers tread its boards.
      WINNER: PARIS

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      The Louvre is one of the most famous museums of all-time

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      The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci hangs in the Louvre

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      The Eiffel Tower is a wondrous architectural structure

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      The Palais Garnier sees some of the best opera performers tread its boards
      WEATHER
      Manchester certainly won’t win here, unless he doesn’t mind a bit of rain.
      But, if it’s a warmer climate and one similar to Barcelona, Messi should opt for Milan.
      In July and August, the temperatures average 29 and 30 degrees respectively.
      And with only five days of rain in both those months, he will certainly be able to keep dry.

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      In the summer months Milan averages temperatures of 29 and 30 degrees

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      Milano Marittima is a resort favoured by the Milanese jet-set.

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      Antonella Roccuzzo will have a big say on where Messi moves

      Of course, there’s no beach in Milan.
      His best bet would be Milano Marittima – a three-hour drive from the city and a resort favoured by the Italian jet-set.
      WINNER: MILAN More