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    Chelsea’s American buyer Todd Boehly was college wrestling star, as revealed in amazing yearbook photos

    INCOMING Chelsea owner Todd Boehly was a college WRESTLING star as a teenager, as his school yearbook photos show.The billionaire businessman, 46, attended the private Landon School in Maryland, where he excelled at sport as a youngster.
    New Chelsea owner Todd Boehly as a fresh-faced college student
    Boehly was a champion wrestler at the private Landon School in Maryland
    The future LA Dodgers owner also played baseball at Landon School
    Boehly is leading the consortium that has agreed to buy  a consortium Chelsea for around £4.25billion – which would be the biggest sports takeover in history.
    Boehly and his team, which includes billionaires Mark Walter, Hansjorg Wyss and investment firm Clearlake Capital, are now set to become the new Chelsea owners by the end of May.
    And Boehly was clearly earmarked for big things as in his school yearbook he was named as one of the ‘Future Leaders of the US’.
    A teenage Boehly juggled a budding athletics career with his studies – starring in both baseball and American football teams.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}dodge-ball .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Who is Todd Boehly? LA Dodgers part-owner who is taking over Chelsea
    But, it was in the art of grappling where Boehly really showed his mettle.
    He led the school’s wrestling team to back-to-back Interstate Athletic Conference Championships in 1990 and 1991.
    And his achievements were so highly thought of at the private college, Landon named their gym the Boehly Family Wrestling Room in his honour.
    Boehly returned to the school in 2014 for the grand opening of the wrestling room, where he was joined by his fellow classmates and wrestlers.
    Boehly, left, led Landon School to two consecutive schools’ championships in 1990 and 1991
    Boehly cuts a dashing figure in a varsity jacket
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    His former teacher and mentor Steve Sorkin spoke about his prowess on the mat.
    Sorkin said: “Todd expended as much energy on the sidelines in encouragement of his teammates as he did on the mat.
    “How fitting it seems that so many of his classmates have traveled distances to attend the dedication, exemplifying the spirit of brotherhood that stands as Todd’s hallmark.”
    Elsewhere in the school yearbook, a fresh-faced Boehly appears in a varsity jacket – sporting a shock of blond hair.
    Academically, Boehly excelled at his US college
    American Football was also a passion for Boehly at college
    Boehly shows off his swing playing baseball for Landon School
    Boehly, first from the right in the front row, was called one of the ‘Future Leaders of the US’ in his yearbook
    While, the future Los Angeles Dodgers owner also appears at ease swinging a bat on the baseball field in a game for his school.
    His sporting pursuits clearly didn’t hamper his academic progress later on in the yearbook – where he is named alongside four other students as one of the ‘Future Leaders of the US’.
    Thirty years on, and Boehly is set to take the reins at Chelsea from Roman  Abramovich.
    A statement published on Chelsea’s official site said: “The proposed new owners will commit £1.75bn in further investment for the benefit of the Club.
    “This includes investments in Stamford Bridge, the Academy, the Women’s Team and Kingsmeadow and continued funding for the Chelsea Foundation.
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    “The sale is expected to complete in late May subject to all necessary regulatory approvals. More details will be provided at that time.”
    Boehly is a part owner of the LA Dodgers baseball team and US women’s basketball side the Los Angeles Sparks, and owns a stake in the renowned LA Lakers NBA franchise.
    Boehly, centre, has been pictured after his consortium signed an agreement to takeover Chelsea
    The American billionaire is a part-owner of the LA Dodgers baseball teamCredit: AP More

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    Todd Boehly will curb Chelsea’s transfer spending but he’s tough negotiator and will demand trophies like Abramovich did

    CHELSEA fans are hoping Los Angeles Dodgers joint owner Todd Boehly can translate his outstanding success in baseball to winning the Premier League. Boehly’s offer has won the bidding process with his £4.25billion offer because of his proven track record with the Dodgers over the past decade.  
    Todd Boehly made a formal offer to buy ChelseaCredit: Getty – Contributor
    But what can Chelsea fans expect when current owner Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich passes control of the club to American billionaire Boehly ?
    Sports business analyst Darren Rovell believes Chelsea fans should brace themselves as there will be spending much less on transfers.
    Rovell said: “Look, everyone is a downgrade from Roman.
    “Boehly is not the billionaire that Roman was so I think if Chelsea fans got used to literally going after everyone and money not being any object – I don’t expect that to be the case with the Boehly team. 
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Chelsea.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BLUE DIRECTION .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Incoming Chelsea owner Boehly will have plenty to sort out when he arrives
    Boehly – who was pictured at Stamford Bridge late on Friday night, -has a track record of making record acquisitions, arguably overpaying for his teams.
    But he believes so strongly in the value of the product that he balks at critics who claim he overpays for his assets. 
    The Dodgers have doubled in value since he acquired a 20 per cent stake in the team. 
    Rovell expects the spending to slow down with the new ownership. 
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    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    The Russian’s appointed brokers, the US-based Raine Group, have told Boehly that he must promise not to pay out dividends or take any management fees for a decade after the completion of the deal.
    Rovell said: “You got a Russian oligarch who could spend as much as he wanted.
    “I think money is going to be more strained because against the background of what Roman Abramovich could spend, they are not going to be spending as much.  
    Todd Boehly’s net worth is currently listed at £3.6billion, while Abramovich’s wealth sits at £6.7billion as of 2022. 
    The team’s future ownership is now at the behest of a private equity firm and not an oligarch, outright owner with no other investors listed. 
    Billionaire tycoon Todd Boehly is part of the consortium interested in buying ChelseaCredit: Getty
    In Los Angeles Boehly, far right, is part owner of the Dodgers, along with basketball legend Magic Johnson, centreCredit: Corbis
    “I think everyone is a downgrade from Roman. It’s difficult to upgrade from Roman Abramovich because the cash is there,” Rovell said.  
    Chelsea FC and the Dodgers are now interlinked with Boehly, both teams sport almost identical colors, and now it appears that both organizations will inevitably draw comparisons. 
    Under Boehly, the Dodgers have become perennial contenders.
    Boehly’s consortium took over the Dodgers almost exactly 10 years ago and the team has not missed the playoffs since, won a World Series and have managed to draw in one big free agent name after another in recent years. 
    Boehly does not currently run the Dodgers however, and is not currently an employee at Guggenheim Baseball Partners, the consortium that took over the team in 2012, according to Senior Director Steven Lee.  
    His biggest contribution appears to be negotiating record-setting television contracts for the Dodgers that have enabled the team to go after whoever they want.
    Boehly is married to Katie and they have three sons, Nick, Zach and ClayCredit: Getty
    NBC Sports television contract with the Premier League expires this month, and it is reported that ESPN and CBS Sports are looking to make a bid for US TV rights, meaning his skillset may be put to use quickly. 
    Rovell says that Chelsea fans are not getting a loud or brash owner, like Jerry Jones or Mark Cuban in Boehly, but the American is expected to take over the team’s day-to-day operations.  
    Rovell said: “The fans don’t want a guy who knows it all, someone who doesn’t understand their traditions.
    “It is a delicate balance with premiership teams because of the heritage, so you have to tip-toe lightly over what you are doing and how bold you are going to be. 
    “In a way that’s good because Todd Boehly is not an in your face guy who could rub people the wrong way early on.
    “He’s going to bring his people, his insight and not look to make his mark, but to win, unlike other owners.”
    Roman Abramovich celebrates winning the Club World Cup with skipper Cesar AzpilicuetaCredit: Getty
    Roman Abramovich has been forced to sell Chelsea over Russia’s war in UkraineCredit: EPA
    Abramovich’s disposal of the team means Chelsea fans are on the receiving end of an owner that may be out to prove something.
    Rovell says most Americans could not pick Boehly out of a line up, despite being a part of a high profile ownership group for one of the most highly visible teams. 
    Rovell said: “He doesn’t manifest itself in a way owners normally do,  by showing the world who he is and that he is the one making moves.
    “I think he clearly delegates authority and understands there are people who do what they do in scouting that are better than him.”
    Rovell says that although Chelsea may experience financial restraint under new ownership, Boehly’s could end up being a win for the team. 
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Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}DICTATOR FOILED .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Putin’s £500m superyacht SEIZED after we revealed sickening luxury onboard
    He said: “Fans should expect someone the quieter side that has the wherewithal to spend, that has shown a record to win, has shown a record to delegate to the right people.
    “I think overall it is a net positive.” More

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    Mad manager moments, from Mourinho poking a rival in the eye to Van Gaal’s dive, after Moyes kicks ball at ball boy

    IT’S a high-pressure job being a football manager – so it’s any wonder sometimes they lose control of their emotions.David Moyes is the latest boss who cracked when the going got tough.
    David Moyes lost his cool when he booted the ball at a ball boy during West Ham’s Europa League clash with Frankfurt
    The referee sends Moyes off during the incident
    His mad moment came when he booted a ball towards a ball boy in West Ham’s Europa League semi-final clash against Eintracht Frankfurt after growing frustrated at apparent time-wasting.
    But the Scot isn’t the first manager to lose his cool, or do something just plane daft…
    Jose Mourinho
    During his Real Madrid years Mourinho was especially spiky.
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    And it was fierce rivals Barcelona, who irked him the most, with things coming to a head in El Clasico.
    After the game, the Special One poked Pep Guardiola’s then-assistant Tito Villanova in the eye in an unprovoked attack.
    Mourinho apologised a year later and has always continued to express his sorrow for the incident.
    Jose Mourinho regrets the eye poke on Tito Villanova
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    Louis van Gaal
    Van Gaal’s reign at Manchester United was full of hilarious moments, but this might have been the best.
    Forget singing ‘Louis van Gaal’s army!’ with fans outside the ground while signing autographs.
    Collapsing to the ground in the technical area, like he did against Arsenal in 2016, had fans laughing in the crowd.
    The Dutchman was trying to express his thoughts that Gunners stars were diving during the game – doing it in the most bonkers way.
    Louis van Gaal throws himself to the floor to demonstrate what he thought Arsenal’s stars were doingCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Arsene Wenger
    The studious professor of the game, Wenger was far from a shrinking violet on the touchline.
    Forget that educated look, this was a man who refused to go to the stands when he was sent off at Old Trafford and wouldn’t shake another manager’s hand.
    But, the ultimate Wenger moment of anger came against foe Mourinho at Stamford Bridge.
    After years of taunting, even being called a “voyeur” and a “specialist in failure” by the Portuguese, Wenger snapped in 2014 – shoving Mourinho after a disagreement on the sidelines.
    Arsene Wenger reached boiling point with Jose Mourinho and gave him a shoveCredit: Getty
    Alan Pardew
    If ever there was a clearer indication that Alan Pardew liked a dance, this was it.
    The setting was Wembley, the FA Cup final of 2016. His Crystal Palace had just taken the lead against Man Utd in the 78th minute through substitute James Puncheon, who was unlucky not to start the game.
    Cue Pardew’s celebration – throwing shapes towards the camera with a rather smug look on his face.
    “I regret the dance,” Pards later said. “My daughter had said, ‘There’s this new dance’, and that must have been in my head! I should never have done it – people remember it, unfortunately – but it was a brilliant moment for Punch, and I’d felt for him.”
    Former Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew breaks into dance to celebate James Puncheon’s goalCredit: BBC
    Nigel Pearson
    Old school manager Nigel Pearson was a tough player for Sheffield Wednesday, and appears to be an even harder manager.
    The former Leicester City gaffer bizarrely put his hands around the neck of Crystal Palace star James McArthur, after he crashed into him in the technical area in a clash in 2015.
    There was a back story. McArthur had snubbed a move to Pearson’s Leicester side the previous summer.
    When he was asked after why he wouldn’t let McArthur go from his stranglehold, Pearson told reporters: “Because he said something to me.”
    When pushed for a more elaborate response, he added: “I don’t have to reveal anything, do I? I’m more than capable of looking after myself.”
    Ex-Leicester City manager Nigel Pearson wraps his hands around James McArthur’s throatCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Brian Clough
    Another man capable of looking after himself, Cloughie famously wanted to take on Muhammad Ali.
    But this time, it was some of his owns fans at Nottingham Forest who felt his fist, or to put it better – a clip round the ear.
    It all unfolded after Forest beat QPR in the Littlewoods Cup in 1989 and supporters ran onto the pitch to celebrate.
    Clough ran onto the turf himself and lamped a couple of pitch invaders as he displayed his displeasure at their actions.
    A few days later, the fans came to the City Ground to meet the legendary coach who made the two young men kiss him as a gesture that he forgave them.
    Brian Clough gives his fans a clip round the ear for invading the pitch at the City Ground
    Phil Brown
    No footballer likes a telling off. Especially when it’s done in plain sight in front of your own supporters.
    Former Hull City boss Brown was livid with his players as they trailed 4-0 at the Eithad during the 2008-09 season.
    So, he kept his players out on the pitch, marched them to the centre circle, and delivered his team-talk there.
    “That was a difficult episode and he shouldn’t have done it,” then Hull star Geovanni later told FourFourTwo magazine.
    “He exposed all the players and I couldn’t have disagreed more with that. I’m against anything that exposes the group but people make mistakes.”
    Ex-Hull boss Phil Brown gives his players a half-time ticking off on the pitch at the Etihad StadiumCredit: PA:Press Association More

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    I sell luxury cars to Premier League footballers over WhatsApp – because they don’t want to walk into a showroom

    CAR SALESMAN Richard Clark is the go-to dealer for Premier League footballers, including England stars Aaron Ramsdale and Kalvin Phillips.Since launching his business Premier Sports Solutions in 2005, he has sold 1000s of cars from his Bournemouth showroom.
    Richard Clark is the go-to car salesman for football’s elite and owns Premier Sports Solutions
    Arsenal star Aaron Ramsdale shows off his Mercedes G63 AMG
    But, many of clients prefer to message their requests on WhatsApp and Instagram – rather than visit 42-year-old Clark in his office.
    From the popular £250,000 Lamborghini Urus to the £180,000 Mercedes G63 AMG, he is able to supply their demands with high-end motors, and fast.
    Premier Sports Solutions are comfortably the biggest independent supplier footballers in the country.
    “It’s very simple. Footballers come to us, often after a team mate has recommended us, tell us what they want on WhatsApp and we supply them the car,” Clark revealed.
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    “Most don’t really want to come into the showroom, they’re not really interested in that, they just want what they want and on their drive.
    “But we have a very strong presence online now with our Instagram profile, which gives people an idea of what cars we can source.
    “And we also keep a careful eye on the market, what people want and follow the trends.”
    SunSport previously revealed how Clark earned the trust of the football world when he was asked by Jamie Redknapp to help him find a car.
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    Brazilian Gunner Gabriel is a happy customer of Premier Sports Solutions
    A £160,000 Lamborghini Urus is Kalvin Phillips’ drive
    “I fell into cars after I came back from working overseas in the football industry and a big car dealership approached me” Clark said.
    “They knew I knew a few footballers and they asked me if I could sell cars to them.
    “I was and still am good friends with Jamie’s brother Mark, so I’ve been friends with the Redknapps for years,
    “At the time, Jamie wanted a Bentley, so I went in there and managed to sell him one.
    “Then, I sold a car to Les Ferdinand and Tim Sherwood.”
    Respect is key
    Clark believes the secret to his success is treating footballers with respect, not ripping them off and making sure they get the best service.
    “We don’t work off massive margins and we treat everyone the same,” Clark explained.
    “We try to give footballers the best possible level of service, to their door, and they all come back.
    “We’ve been lucky that we’ve had a celebrity market ever since then and we have grown significantly.
    Players including Ben Chilwell and James Maddison have donated shirts to Clark as a thank you
    Leicester City star James Maddison also loves the Lamborghini Urus
    “Anyone who is young, wealthy, a celeb or a footballer – they come to us.”
    Whether they are buying or financing, Clark wants to give his clientele the best deal.
    He will also resell them for their face value, ignoring taking any money off the top for his own financial gain to give the customer the maximum return on their car.
    Clark said: “The majority use finance of some description to buy their cars, but there are some who will just pay for them outright.
    “When the lads are finished with their cars, we will retail them if they want us too and not just give a trade bid.
    “That way they can rotate their cars hassle free and keeps the ‘buying a car’ process very easy for them with the best deal when they are buying a car and getting the maximum possible return for the part exchange.
    “It keeps the client happy.”
    Best seller
    Over the 17 years Clark has been in business, he has seen plenty of expensive motors driven off his lot.
    But there’s two that have been big sellers among the football community that decorate training ground car parks around the UK.
    “Without doubt, the biggest car for footballers has been the Lamborghini Urus,” he said.
    “We sold 25 last year alone.
    “G Wagons have also been massive news, and sold a similar amount of them too last year.”
    However, Clark has noticed a trend forming among conscientious footballers who are thinking more about the environment.
    Clark has already seen conscientious footballers move towards electric cars
    “We’ve done great with the Porsche Taycan lately, and we’ve seen a massive shift towards electric cars with footballers,” he said.
    “A lot of them, possibly would be considering petrol costs, and many who live in big cities, like London, won’t have to pay any congestion charge fee.
    “So I definitely think the shift now is certainly moving to electric.
    “Footballers are far more switched on than people give them credit for, and I think are looking towards protecting the environment.”
    And for the next big thing?
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Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}CHELLE’S PAIN .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Michelle Heaton in tears on Loose Women over rehab letter from husband
    “Without a shadow of a doubt the new Range Rovers. There’s a new Vogue out and a brand new Sport coming too,” Clark predicted.
    “I expect those to be our biggest sellers in the near future.” More

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    Man Utd stars who said they hated Manchester, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Carlos Tevez and Anthony Martial

    IF this lot are anything to go by, incoming Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag will have his work cut out convincing new signings to sign for the Red Devils.The Dutch tactician joins the club in the summer, and will immediately set about reshaping a squad in dire straits for fresh blood.
    Erik ten Hag might have his work cut out to convince players to move to ManchesterCredit: PA
    But, he will have to remember some might not take to living in Manchester, or its surrounding areas.
    And some certainly won’t enjoy the rainy weather, with Frenkie de Jong reportedly the latest transfer target to question a move to Old Trafford because he wasn’t sure about the weather.
    Cristiano Ronaldo
    The Portuguese superstar can’t dislike Manchester too much, after all he’s lived in the city twice now.
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    But when he first arrived in the UK, he voiced his discontent with the weather in comparison to sunny Portugal.
    He said back in 2006: “I like to play for Manchester – better than [I like] the weather.
    “The weather is very difficult for me because you see snow, every time, and rain.
    “It’s difficult compared to Portugal, where you see sun every day, which is why it’s difficult for me.
    “But the club is massive and I’m very happy for staying here.”
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    When he first arrived in Manchester from sunny Portugal, Cristiano Ronaldo whinged about the weatherCredit: AFP
    Anthony Martial
    For French star Martial, it was the English cuisine that didn’t quite take his fancy.
    Currently on loan at Sevilla, maybe he’s getting his culinary fix now.
    But when he was asked what he didn’t like about Manchester, he told L’Equipe: “Manchester weather, cooking when I’m tired and English cuisine.”
    And what did he like?  “Football,” he said.
    “It sounds simple but it’s always been the case – I don’t see myself living without playing.”
    Anthony Martial struggled with the local cuisineCredit: Getty
    Carlos Tevez
    Argentine legend Tevez admitted he was never quite sure about the North West, despite spells at both Manchester clubs.
    Amusingly, he said there was nothing for him to do in the sprawling city.
    “There is nothing to do in Manchester. The weather, everything. It has nothing and the problem is I am still speaking very poor English,” he said on Argentine TV.
    “When I finish my contract I will not return to Manchester ever, not even on holiday. Not for anything.”
    Carlos Tevez said there was nothing for him to do in ManchesterCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    Nemanja Vidic
    We never thought tough-guy and uncompromising centre-back Nemanja Vidic would be worried about a bit of rain.
    But even the Serbian, who signed from Spartak Moscow, was unsure.
    “I struggled with the weather in the beginning,” he told FourFourTwo magazine in 2016.
    “Moscow is cold in the winter, but you don’t have rain – you have sunshine.”
    “The only thing I had a problem with was the weather. I really enjoyed Manchester, the social life and its people.”
    Nemanja Vidic had a moan about the rain in ManchesterCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Angel Di Maria
    The homes of Cheshire surely aren’t this bad?
    Angel Di Maria thought so, he hated his living arrangements after signing for United.
    “It was horrible! All of it was horrible, we went to the house and we were like, ‘See you later guys, we’re out of here,'” he said.
    “When we left, I said to him, ‘Go to any country – except England!”
    Angel Di Maria freaked out when he saw the house he was going to live in and wanted to leave ManchesterCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    Juan Sebastian Veron
    Argentine midfielder Veron played for both Man Utd and Chelsea, but admitted he was never happy in our country.
    In 2010, he said: “I was never happy in England and my time there made me question my desire to continue playing.”
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}SHOCK LEAP .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Chappelle tackled by man with GUN before Chris Rock jokes: ‘Is that Will Smith?’
    He added: “England has a spectacular Premier League but that’s it. They don’t train very much and there were no proper warm-ups at Manchester United.”
    Now, we can’t believe Sir Alex Ferguson never pushed his players hard in training.
    Juan Sebastian Veron contemplated giving up football after his spell in EnglandCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd More

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    Real Madrid’s failed youngsters, from Man Utd star Mata, Barcelona legend Eto’o and Liverpool midfield ace Fabinho

    REAL MADRID’S youth revolution is clearly paying off after they reclaimed their LaLiga crown after a superb 2021-22 campaign and they are now targeting a Champions League final.Los Blancos’ transfer policy in recent seasons has been to build for the future – assembling a crop of the finest young talents that one day might give them sustained glory.
    Samuel Eto’o was one of many young players that slipped through the net at Real MadridCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    But, there is a flip side to that strategy.
    These nine youngsters failed to make the grade at the Bernabeu, after offering so much promise early on.
    And in this lot there’s a Barcelona legend, Tottenham flop, a Premier League winner at Liverpool and a current first team star at Manchester United – who kicks us off.JUAN MATA
    Originally a Real Oviedo youth product, Los Blancos pounced on attacking midfielder Mata when he was 15.
    He played his way through the youth ranks to the second string, where he scored ten goals in a team that was relegated from the Spanish second division.
    Mata had a release clause in the final year of his contract that allowed him to talk to other clubs – and in 2007 he moved to Valencia.
    It was at Valencia where Mata made his name, before moving to the Premier League with Chelsea and then on to the Red Devils.
    Juan Mata joined Real Madrid aged 15Credit: PA:Press Association
    Mata left in 2007 for Valencia because he didn’t get a chanceCredit: PA:Press Association
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}MOST READ IN FOOTBALL.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    SAMUEL ETO’O
    Here’s one that Real Madrid would’ve kicked themselves that it didn’t work out, especially given his record for their fiercest rivals Barca.
    Cameroon legend Eto’o, now a part-time singer, was on their books as a 16-year-old after moving from Kadji Sports Academy in his homeland.
    He found his path to the first team blocked, with the likes of Raul, Fernando Morientes and Ronaldo ahead of him in the pecking order.
    Restricted to just seven appearances, where he failed to hit the back of the net, he moved to Mallorca permanently in 2000.
    Eto’o was on Real Madrid’s books as a 16-year-oldCredit: AFP – Getty
    Behind Raul and Ronaldo in the pecking order Eto’o was restricted to just seven appearances for the clubCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    FABINHO
    Liverpool’s Brazilian midfielder was once on the books at Real Madrid.
    At 18, he was bought from Fluminense and given time to blossom in a B team that featured the likes of Alvaro Morata, Casemiro and Lucas Vazquez.
    Then-manager Jose Mourinho gave Fabinho his debut for Real in 2013 – in a 6-2 rout of Malaga.
    But when the Portuguese boss left he was loaned out to Monaco, before signing for the French club permanently.
    He’s now a Premier League and Champions League winner at Liverpool – with the midfielder a key cog in Jurgen Klopp’s Quadruple-chasers.
    Fabinho was brought to Real Madrid at 18 by Jose MourinhoCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    MARCOS ALONSO
    Chelsea left-back Alonso was born in Madrid and joined La Fabrica as a kid.
    He rose through the youth ranks, before he was handed his debut by Manuel Pellegrini in 2010.
    But with chances hard to come by, Alonso moved to England – signing for Bolton Wanderers that same year.
    He was sold to Fiorentina, also enjoying a loan spell at Sunderland, before later joining the Blues, where he plays to this day.
    Marcos Alonso spent seven years at Real Madrid
    Marcos Alonso joined Bolton Wanderers from Real Madrid after failing to make the grade thereCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    ROBERTO SOLDADO
    Born in Valencia, who he would later go on to star for, Soldado joined Real Madrid at 15.
    The striker was prolific for Real Madrid’s B team – scoring 63 goals in 120 games, but he couldn’t replicate that form in the first team.
    He played just 19 times in the four years he was there – finding the net four times until he was sold by Fabio Capello.
    Soldado would famously turn up at Spurs for £26million – and flop miserably.
    Roberto Soldado was prolific for Real Madrid’s B teamCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    Soldado couldn’t replicate that form with the first teamCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    ALVARO NEGREDO
    The former Manchester City striker started his career at Rayo Vallecano and moved to Real Madrid Castilla in 2005.
    He managed to impress then-boss Capello and was called up to a few games in the Copa del Rey, but was an unused substitute.
    Negredo was sold to Almeria with an option for Real Madrid to buy him back, and after 32 goals in two seasons they did just that – but guess what?
    He never got a game then either and joined Sevilla the same year.
    Before Alvaro Negredo signed for Man City, he was a Real Madrid youngsterCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    SANTIAGO CANIZARES
    Canizares went on to become a Valencia legend, representing Spain 46 times between 1993-2006.
    But before he found fame elsewhere, he was guarding the sticks with Real Madrid C from 1988.
    The 5ft 11in stopper was loaned out three times, most memorably to Celta Vigo – where he gained LaLiga experience.
    However, he was unable to dislodge German World Cup-winner Bodo Illgner as No1 and was eventually sold to Valencia in 1998 – after spending 13 years with the club.
    Santiago Canizares played understudy to Bodo Illgner until he was sold to ValenciaCredit: PA:Empics Sport
    JOSELU
    Newcastle and Stoke fans will be familiar with the Spanish centre forward, who struggled to find any sort of rhythm in front of goal in English football.
    But in Spain he was a goalscoring machine at youth level, initially with Celta, before Real Madrid swooped when he was 18.
    For Real’s B team he scored 40 goals in 72 games – beating Alvaro Morata to the honour of top scorer in the 2010-11 season.
    With Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema blocking his path for the first team, he moved to Hoffenheim in 2012.
    Joselu was a goalscoring phenomenon at youth levelCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    JACK HARPER
    Compared to Robin van Persie and labelled a wonderkid by his coaches, Harper was born in Malaga to Scottish parents and touted as the next big thing.
    He signed for Real Madrid on an initial 12-month contract at the age of 13 – living at the club’s training ground.
    Three years later he was handed a five-year contract, which was extended by another two years in 2014.
    However, after the club said they wanted to loan him out when he was 18 – he decided to leave, joining Brighton.
    There, he suffered a knee injury that kept him out of the game for six months.
    He’s currently on the books of Getafe, but has been loaned out four times, currently at Racing Santander.
    Scottish star Jack Harper was labelled a wonderkid by Real Madrid coachesCredit: Getty Images – Getty More

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    Former Man Utd kid Tom Thorpe captained the youth side to glory alongside Pogba and Lingard, but faded into obscurity

    IN 2011, Tom Thorpe seemingly had the world at his feet.As captain of Manchester United’s brilliant youth team that won the reserve league, U18s title and an FA Youth Cup, he organised the likes of Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard and Ravel Morrison.
    Former Man Utd starlet Tom Thorpe lifts the FA Youth Cup in 2011Credit: Getty
    Thorpe starred alongside Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard at youth levelCredit: Getty
    Big things were expected, however as fate would have it Thorpe wouldn’t get the lucky breaks needed to make a career in football.
    Now out of the game, he hasn’t played professionally for three years and is unattached.
    His last outing came in the Indian Super League, when Teddy Sheringham managed Atletico de Kolkata.
    So, where did it all go wrong for Thorpe?
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    Hugely admired
    Centre back Thorpe joined United relatively late – as a 16-year-old in 2009.
    But he soon excelled and showed he was captain material with displays of leadership at the back.
    And it wasn’t just United’s coaches he impressed – at international level he was just as revered.
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    Remarkably, the defender played for every England age group team between U16s to U21s.
    However, with competition for places at Old Trafford he had to bide his time for his debut.
    Eventually, Louis van Gaal would hand him his only appearance for the club in September 2014, coming on as a sub for Angel Di Maria in the 89th minute against West Ham.
    Perhaps that was more of a token gesture to what had happened at the start of that year in his football career.
    United’s star-studded U18 team was captained by Thorpe, who is in the armband next to goalkeeper Sam Johnstone. The team included Paul Pogba, Michael Keane, Will Keane and Ravel Morrison.Credit: Getty
    Wayne Rooney trains alongside Thorpe in 2014Credit: Getty
    Going out on loan
    After his impeccable performances for the U21s ensured United kept a tight ship at the back in the 2013-14 season, Birmingham City brought Thorpe in on loan in the January transfer window.
    He made his debut the very next day against Derby County, but cruelly suffered a knee ligament injury that saw him stretchered off after just 14 minutes.
    He returned to United for medical treatment, then played a further five times for Birmingham that season before his loan contract was terminated when he suffered a recurrence of the injury in the last month of the campaign.
    Will Keane, who played alongside Thorpe and is now thriving at Wigan, recalled his team mate’s ability to Manchester Evening News.
    “I think a lot of it is about timing and taking your opportunity,” Keane revealed.
    “I know Thorpey hung around in the reserves for a few years, maybe he could have gone out and got that loan experience at a younger age, which would have stood him in greater stead.
    “It’s easy to say in hindsight but it’s a strange one. In our team he was the captain and he was a great player.
    “He was always a really bright lad and as a centre-half as well he was really good on the ball, really composed and just a good lad, had his head on his shoulders.”
    Thorpe shows off the Barclays U21 Elite Group trophy alongside Michael KeaneCredit: Getty
    Rediscovering that form
    Thorpe was offered several loan moves in 2015, but snubbed them after seeing the likes of Paddy McNair and Tyler Blackett gain first team experience under van Gaal.
    That same year he was released by the club, but swiftly picked up by Rotherham United.
    Boss Steve Evans said at the time: “This is a young man that I have targeted since the first day he was released by Manchester United.
    “There is no secret within the Millers that I tried to take young Tom on loan on a number of occasions last season, but at that time we couldn’t make it happen.
    “This young man has everything that is good with the modern day footballer. He has height, strength, speed, awareness and technical ability. There is no doubt that this lad for me is exceptional.”
    But Thorpe found it tough in South Yorkshire, especially when Evans was sacked and Neil Redfearn was brought in.
    He found himself out the team struggling to survive in the Championship, and would have to move again after a lack of opportunities.
    Bradford manager Phil Parkinson came to his rescue – signing Thorpe on an emergency loan in 2016.
    At Bolton Wanderers Thorpe got his best run but struggled for injuryCredit: PA:Empics Sport
    Niggling injuries continued to hamper his progress though, and he would play just four times for the Bantams.
    But Parkinson had seen enough to sign him again on another loan deal, when he became boss of Bolton Wanderers the following season.
    He moulded the youngster into a defensive midfielder, and he finally got to play a run of games his ability richly deserved.
    “I always felt he was going to have a good career in the game,” Parkinson said.
    “I really thought Tom had potential and I liked his versatility as well, that was key when you’re running off a small squad.
    “He could play at the back and at Bolton he was good in central midfield, he could pass the ball and he made a strong contribution at Bolton.”
    For Thorpe it was a case of what could have beenCredit: Getty
    Injured again
    However, in 2017 he had to be subbed after 64 minutes in a game against Wimbledon, with his body breaking down again.
    It would be the last time Thorpe would play in English football.
    He was released by Rotherham that same year, and ended up playing in India for Teddy Sheringham at ATK in Kolkata.
    That was 2018, and the last time he appeared in football.
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    Still only 29, the likes of Pogba, Lingard, Keane and more have forged football careers and earned fortunes.
    For Thorpe, though, he is avoiding all publicity. A report in the Manchester Evening News in 2021 reported a Man Utd source saying: “Seems he’s vanished into thin air.” More