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      Chelsea hero John Terry’s incredible Ferrari collection worth £4m, from rare £2m Enzo to 1960s 275 GTB priced at £1.5m

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      JOHN TERRY has fulfilled his childhood dream by owning a garage full of Ferraris worth around £4million.The Chelsea legend loves the Italian brand so much he has several of the classy motors sitting in the garage of his Surrey home.
      John Terry boasts a stellar Ferrari car collection
      From the incredibly rare Ferrari Enzo (only 400 were ever produced) that’s worth a stonking £2m to the sleek, sophisticated 275 GTB that dates back to the 1960s that can be worth as much as £1,5m, Terry, 38, is a Ferrari aficionado.
      And if that’s not enough, his everyday runner is a £170,000 458 Spider.
      FERRARI ENZO – £2m
      In 2013, after lifting the Europa League, he splashed out on the iconic Enzo – originally produced in 2002.
      It was developed using Formula One technology, has a carbon-fibre body, and can reach a top speed of 221 mph.
      The Ferrari Enzo is a limited edition 2003 super car named after its Italian founder.Originally Ferrari only made 399 models but they turned out a 400th for the Pope.I used to go to a showroom in Surrey, they had Enzos, and the Enzo had been my dream car growing up but could never afford it.”John Terry
      Terry’s Enzo was a display car at the 2003 Amsterdam Motor Show and it had 4,163 miles on the clock when the ex-England international bought it.

      Terry admitted in an interview with Petrolicious that he had always had his eyes on one, and wished he’d been able to buy one sooner.
      He said: “I was probably about 20, 21. I used to go to a showroom in Surrey, they had Enzos, and the Enzo had been my dream car growing up but could never afford it.
      “It’s one of those things on the bucket list. Unfortunately, they were a lot cheaper back then as well. Wish I’d have bought one back then.
      “I just loved the look and the limited availability of stuff like the Enzo. Not many on the road, one gets crashed per year as well, so they’re going down.
      “It was an investment as well for the sake of the kids and stuff like that, but just loved to look at the Enzo and the classic cars. I love it.”
      Terry has Ferraris including an Enzo and 275 GTB
      The Ferrari Enzo is said to be worth a staggering £2m
      FERRARI 275 GTB – £1.5m
      If you had money, and you lived in the swinging ’60s, the 275 GTB was one of the best cars on the market.
      And in popular culture the model became iconic when it was bought by ‘King of Cool’ Steve McQueen when he filmed classic movie, Bullitt.
      JT showed of his purchase in 2015 on Instagram, that could’ve cost him anything up to £1.5m.
      The Aston Villa assistant coach bought the car from dealer Tom Hartley Jr, who has helped him build his Ferrari collection over the years.
      “In England. I deal with Tom and he advises me on this stuff,” Terry revealed.
      “I’ve had my eye on a couple of his cars for a few years and just decided to take the plunge (on the 275 GTB). I’ve always appreciated it.”
      And despite being made a long time ago, the 275 GTB is no slouch either.
      It boasts a 0-60 mph time of just over six seconds, which is still faster than most cars today.
      Terry’s Ferrari 275 GTB is a 1960s icon worth around £1.5mCredit: Xposure
      In pop culture the Ferrari 275 GTB was owned by Steve McQueen, who bought one while making BullittCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
      FERRARI 458 SPIDER – £170,000
      It’s not a bad every day runner is it?
      When Terry wants to go to the shops, he often takes his 458 Spider with him, and why not?
      Capable of hitting 0-60 in a staggering 3.3 seconds, it’ll get you where you want to go fast.
      And, of course, it doesn’t cheap with a price tag of around £170,000.
      Other footballers who love the 458 Spider include Mario Balotelli and Arsenal star Mesut Ozil, who all own one.
      Terry invested in the Spider back in 2012, and often travelled to Chelsea’s Cobham training ground in it.
      To zoom to the shops and training, Terry drove a stunning Ferrari 458 SpiderCredit: PA:Press Association
      The Ferrari 458 Spider costs around £170kCredit: Handout
      FERRARI TESTAROSSA – £150,000
      Although he hasn’t shared any images of them on social media, Terry’s Ferrari collection also includes a Testarossa (worth £150k in good nick), as made famous by Tom Selleck in Magnum PI, and a Lusso, that today costs around £200k.
      But Terry doesn’t just confine himself to supercars, and admittedly does like something a little more comfortable from time to time.
      That’s why he’s also been seen over the years driving motors including a Rolls-Royce Wraith (£250k), a Bentley Continental GT (£160k), as well as a special edition gold Range Rover Overfinch (£90k).

      “Range Rover, that’s my day to day with the kids, school run and stuff like that,” Terry revealed
      “I’ve got the Range Rover for the family, and I’ve obviously got my cars that I love, which is the Enzo.”
      When it comes to getting behind the wheel, it’s clear that Terry loves to live life in the fast lane.
      Terry has also been seen in more comfortable cars, like a Bentley Continental GT worth £160kCredit: Matrix
      A custom made gold Range Rover Overfinch is Terry’s family carCredit: Matrix
      In 2014 Terry showed off his £250k Rolls-Royce WraithCredit: Matrix
      John Terry works out at home by jogging in his jacuzzi More

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      Brushing teeth, eating carrots and using a shoe as a phone… the most bonkers things fans have ever done in the stands

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      BEING a football fan is probably one of the most simple things on the planet.Turn up to the ground, scope out a pie and a pint, take your seat and cheer on your team.
      Taking in a football match from the stands really oughtn’t be too difficultCredit: Getty
      And that’s about it…
      But apparently some supporters believe the menial task of sitting – or standing, if you can get away with it – is too simple.
      A handful of fans seem to think a bizarre act of multi-tasking is the way to go, including the Bayern Munich fan who used a shoe as a phone.
      Take a look at some of the most bonkers in-stadium acts of fandom, below…BOOTY CALL
      One Bayern Munich fan used his adidas shoe as a phone in 2018Credit: Twitter
      One Bayern Munich fan went viral in 2018 after being snapped making a phone-call during the game away to Bayer Leverkusen… with a SHOE.
      In the image, the fan was standing with an adidas trainer held up to his ear… mimicking a phone-call.
      The incident occurred as Bayern Munich star Thomas Muller made his way to the touchline for a throw-in early in the second-half.
      The fan – wearing glasses and a red and white scarf – is seen making the bizarre call in the stands behind him.
      One social media user joked: “This is what crystal meth must do to you!”
      ‘PEAK ARSENAL’
      An Arsenal fan was spotted eating a bag of carrots at the Emirates
      Another had a plate covered in bubble wrap – presumably a Christmas present
      The 2017-18 campaign saw two Arsenal fans ridiculed for their antics at the Emirates during the 3-3 thriller against Liverpool.
      As TV cameras panned the crowd ahead of the massive clash against the Reds, they zoned in on two separate fans with bizarre items.
      One was munching from a big bag of carrots, while another was looking at what was presumably some Christmas shopping… a decorative plate covered in bubble wrap.
      On Twitter user quipped: “Arsenal fans, seen some sleeping, one boy eating a bag of carrots, and one wrapping a china plate into a bag.
      “Worst fans in the known universe, no second place.”
      Arsenal supporters mocked after one is spotted with a bag of carrots and another holding a plate at the Emirates

      A BRUSH WITH FAME
      One Chelsea fan actually brushed his teeth during a game against Man UnitedCredit: Sky Sports
      One Chelsea fan hit the headlines in 2009, after he was caught brushing his teeth during the game at Stamford Bridge.
      The Blues were locked in the clash with Premier League rivals Manchester United when the supporter felt the urge to scrub his gums.
      Chelsea went on to win 1-0 thanks to a late John Terry goal, but people all over the country were left utterly perplexed.
      Radio presenter Spoony quipped: “Why has he got a toothbrush in the stadium? And more importantly, why is he brushing his teeth in the stadium?”
      “So you’re in the football stadium, you’ve had your pie, you brush your teeth. I mean where do you rinse… or gargle?”BUM DEAL
      One Sunderland fan appeared to poo in the stands during the 2017-18 campaignCredit: Twitter
      Again during the 2017-18 season, a Sunderland supporter was kicked out of the Stadium of Light after allegedly taking a poo in the stands.
      An image doing the rounds online showed a man sitting on his seat with his trousers down to his ankles as those around look in complete disbelief.
      The young fan later looked to clear his name saying he did NOT poo, but was just absolutely trollied after “necking 12 beers and six ciders” having “only eaten two advent calendar chocolates”.
      PUZZLING
      One Arsenal fan opted to work on his Sudoku rather than watch Arsenal playCredit: Twitter @bryanroberts72
      Another baffling fan snap from the Emirates, as one fan opted to work on his Sudoku skills rather than watch Arsenal’s draw with Red Star Belgrade four years ago.
      Arsene Wenger’s Gunners played out a tedious 0-0 draw with the Serbian minnows in front of a depleted Emirates crowd.
      And one fan appeared to be particularly bored for the Europa League clash… as he cracked open his newspaper to play a little Sudoku.
      Visibly unimpressed with Wenger’s decision to play kids and reserves, the Gooner looked deep in thought as he perused his paper… rather than keep his eyes on the pitch.

      OUTFOXED
      A Leicester fan fell asleep during their title party against EvertonCredit: Sky Sports
      A pal attempted to wake-up the sleeping fan, but to no availCredit: Sky Sports
      It was Leicester City’s incredible, unbelievable Premier League title-winning party against Everton.
      Claudio Ranieri’s “Fearless Foxes” were all set to celebrate the most astounding of top-flight titles… and it was too much for one fan.
      One supporter was seen sound asleep as the game drew to a close, as another fan had a quick word in his ear and gave him a peck on the forehand.
      Despite that, he continued to enjoy his nap at the King Power Stadium – missing all the history being made in the process.
      SCOOTS YOU, SIR
      Eagle-eyed viewers spot top of scooter just above hoardings at Crotone
      Many remember the scooter brought to the top tier by Inter fans in 2001Credit: AP:Associated Press
      Eagle-eyed viewers spotted what appeared to be a scooter smuggled into the stands during Crotone’s clash with Genoa in 2017.
      While play was stopped for a free-kick on 72 minutes, the camera catches the handlebars and top of a scooter in the disabled section of the stands.
      Many will remember a similar — if not far more brutal incident — in Italian football.
      Back in 2001, Inter Milan fans stole a scooter from Atalanta supporters during a visit to Bergamo, somehow able to get it through rigorous security checks and up to the top tier.
      Away fans then proceeded to set it on fire and throw it down onto what was, thankfully, an empty stand below.
      PIECE OF CAKE
      This Fulham fan enraged Twitter users by cutting into a cake during a matchCredit: Twitter
      One Fulham fan quite literally had his cake and ate it during a clash against Luton in October 2019.
      The supporter could be seen cutting into a Victoria sponge cake at Craven Cottage in the closing stages of the Championship clash.
      It’s safe to say that fans weren’t impressed, as one tweeted: “If there was ever a picture to sum Fulham FC up this is it.”
      Another quipped: “The most Fulham thing ever seen from Fulham. Genuinely can’t get more Fulham.”CHEESY DOES IT
      This group of Fulham fans sent social media into a meltdown after showing off their cheeseboard feast on the train to PeterboroughCredit: Twitter@Peter_le_fleur
      An honourable mention must go to these Fulham fans who feasted on a cheeseboard and a bottle of port on the train down to Peterborough for Saturday’s 1-0 win.
      Alexander Mitrovic might have brought up 20 Championship goals, but it was a snap from supporters that has proven to be the talking point.
      The group shared the picture on Twitter, where two ‘cheeseboard bites’, two boxes of crackers, a bottle of port and some grapes can be seen on the table next to paper plates.
      Needless to say social media was sent into a meltdown, as one user said: “The most Fulham tweet ever. Close the internet, it’s over.”
      Another remarked: “Brilliant effort in having the nation on strings.”
      Watch OUTRAGEOUS challenge as keeper kicks striker in face with studs showing and wipes him out to get straight red card More

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      How Liverpool star Mo Salah became the world’s most feared striker thanks to a strict diet and rigorous exercise plan

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      MO Salah has become one of the most feared forwards on the planet.The Liverpool hotshot, 29, has been tipped to win the Ballon d’Or after a remarkable year with the Reds.
      Liverpool star Mo Salah follows a strict diet
      And this season he has been the standout performer in the Premier League, scoring 10 goals in as many games for Jurgen Klopp’s title-chasing side.
      The Egyptian star has achieved greatness thanks to a strict diet and rigorous exercise plan, including 3am workouts during Ramadan.
      It’s that sacrifice that has seen Salah emulate Cristiano Ronaldo as one of football’s most chiselled stars.
      Here’s how he did it.
      EATING RIGHT
      What Salah puts in his body daily is crucial to his success, although he allows himself a cheat day with pizza every so often.
      Speaking about his diet, Salah told CNN, “Nutrition is so important, it’s part of the game. It has helped with my recovery, allowed me to sleep better and helped my body adapt quickly.
      “My nutritionist says that because I don’t have any fat on my body, I can eat what I want. I also don’t drink so it’s fine.”
      And it’s fair to say, the devout Muslim is usually very careful with his food.
      For Breakfast, he will eat parathas – a puffy flatbread – with a glass of milk.
      Light meals and plenty of vegetables are key to Salah’s success
      Egyptian speciality kushari is one of Salah’s favourite meals
      Pizza is Salah’s guilty pleasure
      If he’s still hungry, he will then go for a bowl of fruit.
      When it comes to lunch, Salah tends to load up on more calories. He enjoys lentils, vegetables, bread, chicken, and will finish with a bowl of yogurt.
      His favourite dish is an Egyptian speciality called kushari, which is made from rice, macaroni and lentils and topped with spiced tomatoes, chickpeas and onions.
      “When I go back to Egypt, I call my friend from the airport to buy kushari for us to eat in the car. I pull my hoodie over my head, jump into the car and then I’m eating it straight away,” he once revealed.
      Dinner is usuallly a light affair – with soup, salad and vegetables preferred. He’ll wash that down with a glass of fresh fruit juice without sugar.
      NEVER MISSES A GYM SESSION
      Salah’s dedication to his craft is shown by his obsession with working out.
      If he’s not training with the Reds, he’s doing additional sessions of weight training, bodyweight work, plyometrics, yoga, swimming and stretching exercises.
      “Normally, I get up early to go for training which starts either in the morning or in the afternoon,” Salah told ON Ent.
      “Then I come for recovery for almost two hours. Therapy for any injuries or specific massage so you mitigate any suffering of your body.
      Home workouts are very important to Salah
      Strenuous weight training is key to building up Salah’s biceps
      Additionally, Salah likes to swim in his spare time
      “After that, I go to the gym here at the club which is optional for players. After training, I do stretching and recovery again. Finally, I go to the pool at the club or with Makka [his daughter] at home. I finish all these activities around 7 or 8pm.”
      During Ramadan, Salah made sure he didn’t miss a single minute to sculpt his abs.
      He was up at 3am after fasting during daylight hours to hit the weights in his home gym.
      AN INCREDIBLE BODY TRANSFORMATION
      When Salah was at Chelsea, he cut a skinny figure.
      Even when he found his form on loan at Fiorentina before securing a move to Roma, he was certainly less defined.
      However, thanks to following a diet plan and exercising religiously, he has seen a remarkable body transformation.
      Today’s Salah is bursting out of his Liverpool shirt with bulging biceps and shredded abs.
      Often, he’s not afraid to show off his torso on Instagram to his adoring fans.
      And even his team-mates can’t help but take pictures of his incredible physique.
      At Chelsea, Salah cut a slight figure
      When on loan to Fiorentina in 2015 he was far from the perfect athleteCredit: Rex
      Today, Salah is more ripped than everCredit: Reuters

      Scotland international Andy Robertson recently shared a snap of Salah topless in a swimming pool.
      Hilariously, he joked that his pal had a ‘bit of body fat to lose’ in the photo.
      If that’s the case, then SunSport better jump on an exercise bike lively.
      Brighton boss Graham Potter says Mo Salah is out of this world class More

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      Son Heung-min boasts incredible £1.5million car collection, including ultra-rare £1m Ferrari LaFerrari

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      SON HEUNG-MIN is not the sort of player you would associate with spending a load of dosh on one of the world’s most exclusive cars.The Tottenham hero, 29, is unassuming and usually happy to let his boots do the talking.
      Heung-min Son has built up an amazing £1.5million car collection
      But the £110,000-a-week forward has a fleet of motors worth a staggering £1.5million.
      And pride of place in his garage in North London is a rare supercar available to just a few people.Ferrari LaFerrari
      Only 499 of these incredible cars have been made – and Son has one of them.
      But he ditched the usual red for black because Spurs told him he could not own a red one due to their rivalry with Arsenal.
      Worth around £1,150,000, even a Premier League footballer earning top whack would have to save up for a while to be able to afford it.
      Son stops in his Ferrari LaFerrari to sign a shirt for a fan
      Only 499 of the Ferrari supercars were made and potential purchasers must meet strict criteriaCredit: Alamy
      The most powerful street-legal supercar the Italian manufacturer has produced, buyers must fit in with the Ferrari brand.
      That means that, to purchase one, they must previously have owned a Ferrari – with some reports claiming potential buyers won’t be considered unless they have had FIVE Ferraris in their life.
      Son’s black model does 0-60mph in 2.9 secs and boasts a 6.3-litre V12 engine, electrically assisted by the HY-KERS system to deliver a total power output of 950bhp, with a top speed of 227mph.
      Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has one sitting at home as well.
      Audi R8 Coupe
      The South Korea star was spotted with ex-girlfriend Minah, a pop sensation in their native country, getting behind the wheel of his white R8 in 2014.
      Son is the proud owner of a sleek Audi R8Credit: Handout
      Starting at £112,520 for the most basic model, Son is almost certain to have added a few luxuries to his.
      The 5.2L V10 engine packs an almighty punch and the sleek design turns heads – if you’re quick enough to see it whizz past when it does 0-60mph in 3.2 secs.Maserati Levante
      Son is the proud owner of Maserati’s first SUV, which has a starting price of £60,000.
      But there’s a catch.
      The Spurs star poses with his Maserati Levante
      Son is so popular in his home country that he was actually given the model by the Italian manufacturer as a gift.
      A statement from Korea’s official Maserati importer said they gifted the ex-Leverkusen man the motor because it “might be the most matching vehicle to Son, who can play with delicacy and unstoppable power”.
      Hard to argue with that.
      Although it is not the only 4×4 Son has…Range Rover
      The staple of the Premier League footballers’ diet, Son would not miss out on the chance to land a Range Rover.
      He has done his up in a classy matte black finish – a custom touch that also sees the tailgate script, grille and side vents finished in gloss black.
      Son keeps up the traditions of Premier League footballers by owning a Range RoverCredit: The Sun
      Son waves from the front seat of his 4x4Credit: Instagram

      The Evoque model starts at around £31,000.
      Though Son’s version likely cost a lot more with the extras he has, which include red seats and red trim on the steering wheel.Bentley Continental GT
      Son owns a Bentley Continental GT
      Another favourite of footballers, Son forked out around £160,000 for this supercar.
      It comes packing a 6L twin-turbocharged W12 engine which sees it do 0-60mph in 4.3 secs and can reach 198mph top speed – which could come in handy when he’s running late for training.
      Son Heung-min is unveiled as Ralph Lauren’s face of Wimbledon 2021 as Tottenham star poses in posh outfit More

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      Top 25 Barcelona youth players from La Masia academy, including Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, Fabregas and Mauro Icardi

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      IN 1979, Barcelona decided they wanted a steady stream of homegrown talents to one day blossom in their first team.They launched their now famed La Masia (Catalan for ‘The Farmhouse’), a state-of-the-art academy designed to train youngsters the Barça way, and has since produced a slew of top-class footballers.
      Lionel Messi (in the mask), Cesc Fabregas (back row, second right) and Gerard Pique (back row, third left) are Barcelona youth productsCredit: PA:Press Association
      They were schooled at Barcelona’s famous La Masia AcademyCredit: Simon Jones – The Sun
      Many have gone on to become legends at the club, while others have slipped away and grown at pastures new.
      Here are their best 25 best academy trainees.
      25. ALEX GRIMALDO
      The Spanish left-back is one of the most sought-after defenders in world football at the moment.
      Currently starring at Benfica, he has been linked with a move to Tottenham.
      Barcelona let him go for £1.5million in 2015, without playing a game in the first team.
      Originally, he was plucked from Valence in 2008 – spending four years with the Catalans until he was sold.
      Alex Grimaldo has made his name at BenficaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      24. DANI OLMO
      Olmo is the most recent promising youngster that left Spain for a new challenge.
      The Spanish 21-year-old midfielder, who moved in January 2020 to Bundesliga club RB Leipzig, arrived at La Masia aged just nine.

      But in a surprising move, Olmo decided to leave Barça when he turned 16 and signed for Dinamo Zagreb.
      Barcelona were rumoured to be looking at bringing him back to Catalonia before he moved to Germany.
      He has since starred in the Bundesliga and is a regular in the Spain squad.
      Dani Olmo gambled with his career leaving Barcelona aged 16 for Dinamo ZagrebCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      23. NAYIM
      Arsenal fans won’t want to be reminded of Nayim’s most famous moment in his career.
      But before he was lobbing David Seaman from the halfway line, he was a young hopeful at La Masia.
      He joined Barcelona aged 12 – leaving his hometown Cueta.
      But his chances were limited in a team that was managed by Terry Venables.
      He later joined the former Three Lions boss at Spurs.
      Former La Masia product Nayim scored the winner the Cup Winners’ Cup final against ArsenalCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      22. LUIS GARCIA
      The former Liverpool midfielder had two spells with Barcelona.
      First as a 12-year-old youth player, where he starred in their reserve team.
      But having failed to break into the first team, he was sold to Atletico Madrid in 2002.
      However, after impressing with Atletico, Barcelona exercised a clause in Garcia’s contract to buy him back a season later.
      Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez moved for the playmaker in 2004 – having had him at Tenerife on loan in 2000-01.
      Luis Garcia had two spells at Barcelona but never made the gradeCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      21. ANDRE ONANA
      Another surprise, in-demand Ajax keeper Andre Onana had a spell at Barcelona from 2010-15.
      He joined the club after starting out at the Samuel Eto’o Academy, but failed to make the grade there.
      Five years ago he signed for the Dutch giants, and has since become their No1.
      He was suspended for 12 months for a doping violation, returning to first team training on November 4.
      In-demand Andre Onana had five years at La Masia before moving to AjaxCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      20. ALBERT FERRER
      It was right-back Ferrer’s dream to play for Barcelona – having grown up in the city.
      And he appeared in 221 La Liga games during nine seasons with his boyhood club, after he was signed as a 13-year-old.
      In 1998 he moved to Premier League with Chelsea in a £2.2m deal, where he retired aged 33.
      Albert Ferrer was a local lad who got to represent his boyhood clubCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      19. PEPE REINA
      The son of former Barcelona goalkeeper Miguel Reina, Pepe was always destined to follow in his father’s footsteps.
      He joined La Masia in 1995, and from 1999 he was playing for their reserve side in the third tier of the Spanish football pyramid.
      Reina was never more than an understudy at the Camp Nou, and was told he could leave in 2002.
      Pepe Reina was surplus to requirements to Barcelona in 2002 after being an understudy for yearsCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      18. GUILLERMO AMOR
      Benidorm-born Amor became one of Barcelona’s most important players under Cruyff in the 1990s.
      He joined La Masia in 1980 – winning five league titles and a European Cup.
      With Barcelona in his blood, it is unsurprising he is now responsible for the club’s youth system.
      Former youth product Amor now manages Barcelona’s youth set-upCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      17. HECTOR BELLERIN
      The Arsenal full-back might speak like a cockney, but he’s Barcelona through and through.
      Bellerin was also eight when he joined the club – but after eight years at La Masia he moved to the Gunners.
      He was vice-captain of the Premier League giants, until moving back to LaLiga with Real Betis on loan.
      His Arsenal career looks all but over now.
      Hector Bellerin left Barcelona for Arsenal and played against his old side several timesCredit: PA:Press Association
      16. SERGI
      The marauding Spanish left-back joined Barcelona in 1988, and went on to become a club legend – appearing 382 times and winning three league titles.
      He was handed his Barça debut by Cruyff in a heated Champions League match away at Galatasaray
      From then on, he became a mainstay before he was sold to Atletico Madrid. He hadn’t lost that nastiness that made him a tricky player to play against either – earning 33 yellow cards in his three seasons there.
      Sergi won three La Liga titles after coming through La MasiaCredit: Icon Sport – Getty
      15. THIAGO MOTTA
      Barcelona never really saw the best of Motta.
      Like Pedro, he was signed late – aged 17 from local side Clube Atlético Juventus – and was assigned to the B side.
      He made his debut in 2001, but his time at Barcelona was robbed from him by a serious knee injury.
      Eventually, he found himself at Inter Milan, where Jose Mourinho got the best out of him – winning the Champions League in 2010.
      Thiago Motta never fulfilled his potential at BarçaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      14. IVAN DE LA PENA
      The hype around De La Pena, nicknamed “Little Buddha”, was immense when he was a teen.
      The child prodigy joined La Masia in 1991 from Racing Santander and initially looked to have a big future at the club.
      But fallouts with Cruyff and Van Gaal, who were frustrated with his work-rate, saw his progress curtailed and he had more success with city rivals Espanyol.
      De La Pena had fallouts with Johan Cruyff and Louis Van GaalCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      13. ADAMA TRAORE
      Wolves winger Traore has finally shown the potential Barcelona youth managers believed he had.
      He joined the Spanish champions aged just eight, making his debut aged 17, but failed to break into the first team under managers Gerard Martino and Luis Enrique.
      The speedy winger then moved to England, and had an ill-fated spell at Aston Villa before rediscovering himself at Middlesbrough.
      Adama Traore moved to England to get first team footballCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      12. MIKEL ARTETA
      The Arsenal manager is best known for his time in the Premier League playing for both the Gunners and Everton.
      But before he made it in England, Arteta dreamt of becoming pro in San Sebastian playing football on the beaches with childhood friend Xabi Alonso.
      He joined Barcelona aged 15, but struggled to break into the first team – joining PSG on loan before starring at Glasgow Rangers and returning to play for Real Sociedad with Alonso.
      Mikel Arteta struggled to break into the Barcelona first team
      11. VICTOR VALDES
      Valdes is regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the club’s history – having played 535 games and winning 21 major titles, including La Liga six times and three Champions League’s.
      But it looked like his time at the club had come to an end in 1995 when his family moved to Tenerife.
      However, Barça re-signed him and quickly progressed through the youth teams – making his debut aged 20.
      Victor Valdes left La Masia academy only to return three years laterCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      10. PEDRO
      The ex-Chelsea winger was a late-comer when it came to joining La Masia.
      Pedro arrived from Canary Islands team CD San Isidro aged 17 in 2004.
      But soon, he became a key member of the first team once he was promoted by Pep Guardiola.
      In the 2018-19 season Pedro became the first player to score in six different club competitions during a single season and in the same year.
      Pedro was a late-comer to La Masia, joining aged 17Credit: PA:Empics Sport
      9. MAURO ICARDI
      Argentina striker Icardi had a spell at La Masia from 2008-11, after rejecting overtures from Real Madrid, Arsenal and Liverpool.
      But the goal poacher failed to show his class in Spain and was shipped out on loan to Sampdoria in 2011, which became a permanent move six months later for just £400,000.
      He has since become one of the most sought-after strikers in European football, boasting a remarkable goalscoring record.
      Icardi always stood by his decision to leave Barça, because it ultimately benefitted his career.
      Super poacher Mauro Icardi failed to impress at La MasiaCredit: FC Barcelona
      8. GERARD PIQUE
      Another one that got away, but returned to become a hero.
      Pique played in the same youth teams as Messi and Fabregas from 1997, although he was deployed as a defensive midfielder in his early years.
      Manchester United snapped him up in 2004 on a pro-contract, without having to pay a fee.
      In 2008, he returned to Catalonia for a fee of £5million and has gone on to play 531 times for the club, as well as bag a celebrity wife in Shakira.
      Pique returned to Barcelona after a spell at Man Utd and bagged a celebrity missus in ShakiraCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      7. SERGIO BUSQUETS
      One-club man Busquets has become one of the greatest defensive midfielders of his generation.
      At youth level though he bounced around a few teams playing for the likes of Badia, Barbera Andalucia, Lleida, and Jàbac Terrassa, before settling at Barcelona in 2005,
      Guardiola promoted Busquets to his first team in 2008, but it’s his former international manager Vincente Del Bosque who provided this accurate quote about his abilities.
      He said: “If you watch the whole game, you won’t see Busquets – but watch Busquets, and you will see the whole game.”
      Sergio Busquets has established himself as the best defensive midfielder of his generationCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      6. CESC FABREGAS
      Fabregas trained at La Masia for six years before making the bold move to Arsenal in 2003, believing his chances would be limited at the Nou Camp.
      With the Gunners he soon established himself into one of the Europe’s most promising players – replacing Patrick Vieira in the heart of their midfield, before eventually being named captain.
      In 2011 he returned to Barcelona for £35m, and in three seasons played 96 times for them before moving to Chelsea for £30m in 2014.
      Cesc won the World Cup and the Euros twice, and has been capped 110 times by Spain.
      Fabregas returned to Barcelona after making his name at ArsenalCredit: Action Images – Reuters

      5. PEP GUARDIOLA
      Johan Cruyff called him one of the best midfielders of his generation, and it’s hard to argue with that seeing he was a major influence in playing style of the likes of Xavi, Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas.
      Guardiola joined La Masia at 13, and within six years the deep-lying playmaker made his debut against Cadiz.
      In 1998 Louis van Gaal made him captain, but in 2001 he left for Serie A side Brescia after years of injury problems with a troublesome calf.
      Pep Guardiola became Barcelona captain after making it through their youth ranksCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      4. CARLES PUYOL
      Arguably the most un-Barcelona-like player.
      But Puyol became a cult hero as an inspirational captain with his uncompromising style of defending.
      He joined La Masia in 1995, playing as a defensive midfielder before converting to full-back and then centre-half.
      But Puyol almost left the club three years later when Barça accepted an offer from Malaga after deeming him surplus to requirements.
      However, seeing Xavi getting a chance in the first team encouraged Puyol to stay, and the rest is history.
      Puyol became a cult figure at Barcelona but nearly left the clubCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      3. ANDRES INIESTA
      Plucked from Albacete at the age of 12, Iniesta never looked back.
      He steadily climbed up the youth ranks, making his debut aged 18 in 2002.
      Iniesta would go on to become the most decorated Spanish footballer in history – winning 35 trophies, including nine LaLiga titles and four Champions Leagues.
      Famously, he helped Spain win the 2010 World Cup – scoring the winner against Holland.
      Iniesta joined La Masia as a 12-year-oldCredit: Rex Features
      2. XAVI
      The greatest playmaker of his generation, and the embodiment of their tiki-taka passing style, Xavi joined La Masia at 10.
      At that age though it wasn’t Michael Laudrup he idolised, but in fact British-based stars like John Barnes, Paul Gascoigne, and Matt Le Tissier.
      “I’ve been lucky enough to be brought up on the Barcelona ethos,” he once revealed.
      “Which has taught me the value of being part of a team. ‘Today for you, tomorrow for me.’ Those qualities are essential for life in general.”
      Xavi idolised Paul Gascoigne, Matt Le Tissier and John Barnes growing upCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      1. LIONEL MESSI
      Without doubt the best youngster to come from Barcelona’s youth set-up, and the best to ever play for the club.
      Messi joined the LaLiga giants in 2001 from Newell’s Old Boys in Argentina, who he had trained with since the age of six.
      Realising they had such a prodigious talent on their hands, Barcelona agreed to pay for his treatment after he was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency.
      However his love affair with the club came to an end in the summer and he moved to French giants PSG.
      Messi graduated from La Masia to become Barcelona’s greatest ever playerCredit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      Antonio Conte’s craziest moments, from touchline rows and fighting his players to getting thrown in bath in his pants

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      ANTONIO CONTE will definitely bring plenty of passion to the sidelines as the new Tottenham manager.The Italian, 52, has been handed the reigns at Spurs, following the sacking of Nuno Espirito Santo, on an 18-month deal worth £15million a year.
      Antonio Conte will provide plenty of passion and high jinks at TottenhamCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      That means fans can expect plenty of high jinks as Conte tries to turn the Premier League giants’ fortunes around.
      From wild goal celebrations, including diving into the crowd, to getting thrown into cold baths by his players, the former Chelsea boss has had some crazy moments in the game.
      Here’s some crazy moments that have stood out for SunSport.
      TOUCHLINE ANTICS
      There’s no doubt about it, Conte is a passionate man.
      If he’s not rowing with his staff on the bench or gesticulating wildly to his players and arguing with officials, he’s jumping for joy when his team scores.
      Case in point at Stamford Bridge in a 2017 tussle with Arsenal. After the Blues went 2-0 up thanks to an Eden Hazard solo goal, Conte was delirious.
      The enigmatic boss flung himself into the stands and hugged a group of enthusiastic supporters.
      He has also been known to swing off dugouts, throw himself to the ground in his technical area when unhappy and fling his hands in the air at the crowd to get fans behind his team.
      Conte dives into the fans to celebrate Chelsea’s goal against ArsenalCredit: AFP or licensors
      The dugout is like a playground for Conte, who hangs from itCredit: Rex Features
      Animated scenes on on the touchline are the norm for ConteCredit: Jamie McPhilimey – The Sun
      LET THEM EAT CAKE
      Press conferences can be dull affairs, although Conte does his best to liven things up.
      If he’s not laughing infectiously like cartoon dog Muttley to deflect questions, he’s eating cake in them.
      That happened in 2017, when Chelsea had just thrashed Leicester City 3-0 and their title credentials were being discussed.
      A peckish Conte noticed that one of the journalists had some cake, as he was quizzed.
      He revealed he hadn’t eaten and asked if he could try some.
      After grabbing a fork and tucking in, he told his audience: “It’s very good!”
      During a press conference Conte tucked into a journalist’s cakeCredit: Sky Sports
      TAKING ON MOURINHO
      There’s certainly no love lost between Conte and Jose Mourinho.
      When the pair were on our shores, it’s fair to say they never saw eye-to-eye. In fact, they were regularly at each other’s throats.
      The Special One stooped low by poking fun at Conte’s hair transplant, inferred he was a “clown” because of his goal celebrations, and alluded to his match-fixing scandal.
      However, Conte is no shrinking violet.
      He called Mourinho a “little man” and told him to concentrate on affairs at his own club (Manchester United at the time) because he spends too much time thinking about Chelsea.
      When the two sides met, there was even a coming together on the touchline with both barking at one another. It was settled, though, with a handshake.

      Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte lock horns on the touchlineCredit: Getty – Contributor
      KEEP YOUR HAIR ON
      Of course, Mourinho isn’t the first footballer to ‘discuss’ Conte’s thatch.
      During his playing days at Juventus, the Italian’s mane was thinning and it is believed he had a hair transplant.
      However, Sevilla star Ever Banega was convinced the coach was wearing a wig during the Europa League final clash between the LaLiga side and Inter Milan.
      The Argentine midfielder taunted Conte who was patrolling the touchline. And according to various outlets, he decided to mock Conte’s hair during a feisty exchange during the clash.
      Banega is reported to have started the row, saying: “Let’s see if that wig is real”.
      In response, Conte allegedly told Banega he would, “see him after the game.”
      Conte had a furious bust-up with Sevilla star Banega over his hair transplantCredit: BT Sport
      BOXING CLEVER
      Over the years, hard taskmaster Conte has had his clashes with players.
      But it was an incident with Argentinian star Lautaro Martinez last season that threatened to spoil Inter’s title-winning party.
      The forward took exception to being subbed off on with 13 minutes to spare – after being introduced as a 36th minute sub for the injured Alexis Sanchez.
      The fiery Martinez ignored his manager on the touchline and booted a water bottle before throwing his shirt to the ground.
      Conte then reportedly shouted at his striker: “You need to shut up, have you understood?”
      However, days later Conte and Martinez were seen stepping inside a makeshift ring at the training ground in a brilliant video.
      Romelu Lukaku channeled his inner Michael Buffer by being ring announcer.
      The pair were all smiles as they traded a few jabs, but all was forgotten and they had clearly moved on.
      Lautaro Martinez and Conte have a boxing match at Inter’s training ground after their bust-upCredit: YouTube / Inter
      BUT IT DIDN’T END HAPPILY WITH COSTA
      Not everyone toes the line.
      Diego Costa was famed for his fiery temperament, liking a beer and had a nightclub in his Surrey home.
      You can imagine that didn’t sit well with Conte, who had an almighty bust-up with the striker.
      First, the equally temperamental Conte told Costa he wasn’t part of his first team plans… by text message, which didn’t sit well
      Then, he refused to let him leave when he wanted to make a money-spinning move to China.
      Diego Costa rarely saw eye-to-eye with Conte at ChelseaCredit: Getty – Contributor
      PANTS OFF
      Proving he is game for a laugh, Conte was all smiles in 2013 when he was thrown into a cold bath by his players.
      The incident occurred after Juventus had claimed their 29th Serie A title.
      Stripped down to his tiny whites, the gaffer was carried by a group of stars into the shower area.
      Waiting for him was an ice bath, which he was dunked in before quickly emerging and wrapping himself up in a towel.
      Imagine what awaits if he wins something with Spurs.
      Conte was carried through the Juventus dressing room in his pantsCredit: Juventus Fc
      After he was dunked into a ice bath, Conte emerged smilingCredit: Juventus Fc
      Danny Murphy warns Tottenham fans to ‘forget about free flowing football’ if Antonio Conte takes charge from axed Nuno More

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      Man City star Rodri lived in student halls while studying business management, shuns Instagram and hates tattoos

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      MANCHESTER CITY star Rodri isn’t just a ball-winner.The Spanish star, 25, has completed a degree in business administration and management, while juggling his playing career at the Etihad.
      Rodri signed for Man City from Atletico Madrid in a record breaking £63m dealCredit: Getty – Contributor
      He admitted, it required patience and dedication alongside winning the Premier League for his club. However, the hard work paid off.
      “I am finished. I just have to do a last essay, a small essay, but all the subjects, the big essay at the end is done,” he told mancity.com.
      “It was tough work, but at the end it was nice.
      “You have time for everything. Of course, it is a very demanding profession as a footballer because it demands you not only playing, training and the games, it is also the rest and the care you have to take about yourself.
      “Imagine you come back to your home at three o’clock so you have all the afternoon free. You can do many other things.
      “Of course, you cannot follow the rhythm of the other students but with patience, with dedication you can do it.”
      The modest midfielder signed for the Premier League champions in 2019 for £63million.
      But, unlike his peers, you won’t see him decorated in tattoos and keeping the Manchester tattoo parlours in business because he doesn’t like ink.
      And anyone expecting to be kept up to date with Rodri’s movements on social media will be sadly disappointed because he has no interest in Instagram either.
      Spanish international Rodri juggled his career at Man City to finish a business management degree
      University challenge
      Rodri lived under the radar when he was starring in LaLiga, earning rave reviews at Villarreal two seasons ago, and living his life as a student.
      Shunning renting a posh apartment, Rodri lived in a shared space at the Universidad de Castellon in eastern Spain.
      People were shocked when they saw Rodri, who was playing in the top flight but still living at the university residence.”Rodri’s friend, Valentin Henarejo
      He studied Business Studies and Economics, and balanced a precarious football career with his degree, never missing a lecture.
      And it left his fellow students completely baffled that a pro footballer they were seeing playing every weekend was floating around the student halls.
      “People were shocked when they saw Rodri, who was playing in the top flight but still living at the university residence,” his friend Valentin Henarejo told Marca.
      Strong and a fine passer, Rodri has been called the successor to Sergio BusquetsCredit: AFP OR LICENSORS
      “After the first few days of getting to know him, there was normality.
      “He shared a space with everyone, he liked being with his friends and sitting on the sofa with everyone.
      “But, of course, at the start it was strange seeing him playing table tennis or doing his washing.”Going pro never changed him
      Money for Rodri, who earns around £120,000-per-week at the Etihad, isn’t what motivates him, according to his mate that remembers his early days as he began to find his feet in Spain’s top flight.
      His car, until recently, was a second hand Opel Corsa which he bought from a woman when he got his driving licenceRodri’s Friend, Valentin Henarejo
      In fact, rather than splash the cash on a Ferrari or Lamborghini like a lot of footballers, his first car was an old-banger he bought from an elderly lady.
      “His car, until recently, was a second hand Opel Corsa which he bought from a woman when he got his driving licence,” Henarejo said.
      Rodri got his big break at Villarreal and was earning rave reviewsCredit: Reuters
      But all the time Rodri was living in student accommodationCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Rodri studied Business Studies and Economics at the Universidad de CastellonCredit: Instagram
      “They advised him to buy a better one for his safety and the journeys from Madrid to Castellon, but he didn’t understand why he would spend so much on a car.
      “In fact, one time he told me that some friends were ‘crazy’ for buying nice cars, all that mattered was that it takes you from A to B and that’s all.”
      A practical boy, it could have been easy for Rodri’s personality to change when he began getting talked about by the Spanish press as the successor to midfield regista Busquets.
      However, that wasn’t the case.
      Henarejo revealed: “When he got to the first division he didn’t change.
      “On a personal level his day-to-day life was the same. Train, travel to play, rest, study… as much as he could.
      “He made the step up well, although there are always difficult moments when things don’t go well, but we helped each other mutually.”
      ‘Football comes second in his life’
      Rodri’s first car was an old Opel Corsa he bought off an elderly ladyCredit: Handout
      Atletico Madrid forked out around £18m for Rodri back in 2018Credit: EPA
      In true nature, after Atletico Madrid bought him in 2018 for a fee in the region of £18m, he took it all in his stride.
      “When he signed for Atletico he only told me, he came from having played against Barcelona and he told me that Marca had published it,” Henarejo said.
      “He told me whilst we warmed up the pizza that they gave him after games, you couldn’t tell that he had signed for Atletico.
      “He lived his day-to-day life, although always setting high goals.
      “When we were together, football came second. In his life what matters most is his family.
      “They are more concerned about his studies, they wanted him to be well-educated because they know that football is a lottery.
      “His agent has been important too. Whilst others looked for money, he looked after Rodri.”
      Successor to Busquets
      Villarreal gave Rodri his break, and his career has progressed rapidlyCredit: Reuters
      A full international, Rodri’s abilities were identified by Pep Guardiola as crucial to bolstering his Man City midfieldCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Villarreal took Rodri on in their youth set up in 2013, and he soon made pals with Pablo Alvarez, who has since moved to Deportivo Alaves.
      “Rodri was a year older, but we matched from the first time we met,” Alvarez told Marca.
      Rodri was always very clear that his life wasn’t only football, as he wanted to live a life just like anyoneFormer Villarreal youth teammate Pablo Alvarez
      “He’s a normal guy, very humble and with his feet on the ground, so we get on well.”
      The pair were glued at the hip, playing table-tennis, watching TV and even studying together.
      “Rodri was always very clear that his life wasn’t only football, as he wanted to live a life just like anyone,” Alvarez claimed.

      Like many who follow the game, his former teammate understands the Busquets comparison.
      “I always saw him as the successor to (Sergio) Busquets, as what he did in the reserves the next year you saw right from the youth team, as he did the same things,” he said.
      Busquets’ rise came when Guardiola identified his former player’s abilities would be best served at the base of his midfield at Barcelona.
      And it appears in Rodri, Pep is working his magic again as he continues to impress for the club.
      Man City boss Pep Guardiola comments on Laporte sending off for dragging down Zaha in Crystal Palace clash More