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      Neymar feels strain of Pele’s legacy, it’s no wonder he says Qatar 2022 will be his final World Cup

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      NEYMAR has said that Qatar 2022 will probably be his last World Cup. He will only be 34 when 2026 comes round, but the mental strain is proving too much.
      There is an eerie echo of Pele in all of this. After falling to injury in the early stages of 1962 and being kicked out of 1966, Pele was adamant that he would not play Mexico 70.
      Neymar seems to be feeling the strain of Pele’s legacyCredit: AP
      He relented, of course, and left the global stage on a high. He would have been approaching 34 at the time of the 1974 World Cup. But nothing, not musical pleas or government campaigns, would change his mind.
      Pele remains Brazil’s all time top scorer – a remarkable achievement. South American sides have had many more games since the current marathon World Cup qualification format was introduced in 1996.
      With the lone exception of Brazil, all of the South American top scorers are current or recently retired players.
      And Pele, too, will almost certainly be overtaken by Neymar – perhaps in the course of the Qatar World Cup. This will seem like sacrilege to some.
      But it will be much easier to swallow if Neymar can lead Brazil to their first World Cup triumph in twenty years.
      The air of permanent adolescent makes it hard to believe, but the Paris Saint Germain star will be approaching 31 at Qatar 2022 – almost to the day the age that Pele was when he bowed out of international football with a pair of friendlies in 1971.
      It is an uncanny statistic that highlights the difference in the two careers – and the difficulties of trying to follow in Pele’s footsteps.
      Pele at almost 31 had done it all. He had won the World Cup three times. A brilliant teenager in 1958 and as a mature genius in 1970.
      Before he hit 31, Pele had already won three World Cups with BrazilCredit: Getty
      Neymar has had a torrid time at World Cups with injuriesCredit: Getty – Contributor
      True, injury prevented him doing much in 1962, which is a massive shame.  Back then he was at the peak of his powers – demonstrated clearly while playing for Santos in the second leg of the Club World Cup at the end of that year.
      The competition, still in its early years, was taken extremely seriously.
      And after only losing 3-2 in Brazil, Benfica of Portugal considered themselves as favourites back in Lisbon.
      Pele ran riot, scoring and making the goals that put Santos five nil up.
      In contrast, the World Cup has been cruel to Neymar. Just too young for 2010, he was forced out of 2014 by injury and, antics aside, did as well in 2018 as could have been expected on his recovery from a lengthy lay-off.
      He was also injured for the 2019 Copa America and missed Brazil’s triumph.
      The 2013 Confederations Cup and Olympic gold three years later are scant consolation.
      Qatar 2022 will define his international career. And the problem is that the bar set by Pele’s generation is so high.
      Pele set the bar high for Brazilians to follow in his footstepsCredit: Rex
      Neymar has said Qatar 2022 could be his last World CupCredit: EPA

      As far as the Brazilian public are concerned, there are only two possible outcomes in a World Cup; either Brazil win, or they lose.
      It is a harsh perspective on a 32-team competition, but that is how it is. And, to go into the gallery of genuine greats, Neymar will have to win.
      It is hardly a surprise, then, that he is feeling the strain.
      Neymar shows off incredible £10m personalised Mercedes helicopter More

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      Chelsea legend Eidur Gudjohnsen’s legacy continues with THREE sons playing football, with two starring at Real Madrid

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      EIDUR GUDJOHNSEN enjoyed a tremendous footballing career, beloved by fans around the globe.As well as Premier League champions Chelsea, the Icelandic forward had fruitful spells at PSV, Bolton, Barcelona, Monaco, Tottenham, Stoke and Fulham to name a few.
      Eidur Gudjohnsen is loved by hoards of fans all across the globe, including ChelseaCredit: Empics
      On top of all that, Gudjohnsen was part of Iceland’s heroic Euro 2016 squad who toppled England to reach the quarter-finals, losing to finalists France.
      The Gudjohnsen name had always carried weight on the Nordic island as Eidur’s father Arnor represented the nation for nearly two decades, earning 73 caps.
      And now, he family has no reason to be concerned their legacy will come to an end as Eidur retires… as his three sons are ALL making waves in the footballing world already.
      Gudjohnsen has three boys – Sveinn Aron, 23, Andri Lucas, 19, and Daniel Tristan, 15, all of whom clearly take after their old man with a football.
      On Monday night, Andri grabbed his second international goal for Iceland against Liechtenstein in just his fourth game, as he continues his rapid ascent in the game.
      🇮🇸 A second goal in four international appearances for Andri Gudjohnsen (2002).This one was particularly special for the Real Madrid youngster, with the assist coming from his brother, Sveinn.Eidur’s boys keeping up the family name!#NXGNpic.twitter.com/mvPFeO9q3K— Tom Maston (@TomMaston) October 11, 2021

      Daniel, left, and Andri are following in their father’s and grandfather’s, footstepsCredit: Instagram
      Eidur Gudjohnsen was part of Iceland’s heroic Euro 2016 outfitCredit: EPA
      Eidur Gudjohnsen’s dad Arnor was also a hugely successful footballerCredit: Getty Images
      The three sons of Eidur Gudjohnsen, middle son Andri pictured (left), are all vying to keep the family name alive in the world of football
      Eldest sibling Aron – a centre-forward – started things rolling when he got on the books of Barcelona as a youth star.
      He now plays for Swedish side IF Elfsborg and has been capped six times by his country, although he is yet to score.
      However, for the Allsvenskan outfit Aron has one goal in his four starts for the club so far this campaign, after failing to hit the heights at Italian club Spezia.
      The Gudjohnsen family clearly have footballing skill running in their veins
      Eidur Gudjohnsen’s sons were regularly spotted at Stamford BridgeCredit: PA:Press Association
      Eidur Gudjohnsen remains a firm fan favourite at Premier League champions ChelseaCredit: PA:Press Association
      Iceland’s recent international hero Andri is also a centre forward like his father and older brother.
      He began his football education at La Masia, before moving to Espanyol where his potential was unleashed.
      After scoring 20 goals in a youth season, Andri was scouted by Real Madrid, where he still is today.
      And he’s representing their reserve side this season, Real Madrid Castilla – who he has netted for once in four games.
      Last but not least, there’s youngest son Daniel Tristan, who is believed to have even more potential than his siblings.
      Sveinn Aron Gudjohnsen cheers on Iceland during their run in Euro 2016Credit: Getty Images
      Daniel Gudjohnsen with Lionel MessiCredit: instagram

      Andri Lucas Gudjohnsen exploded on the youth scene with EspanyolCredit: Facebook
      Andri Lucas Gudjohnsen was spotted cheering on IcelandCredit: Getty Images
      Eidur Gudjohnsen enjoyed a hugely successful stint at Chelsea
      The 15-year-old also began his career at Barcelona, where dad Eidur played between 2006-2009.
      Back in 2017, he was the star of the Cordial Cup tournament – won by Barca – and was voted player of the tournament.
      The competition was split into three age-ranges – Under-15s, Under-13s and Under-11s.
      Young Gudjohnsen was named the best player of his Under-11 age-group throughout the entire competition.
      Daniel Gudjohnsen is now on the books at Real Madrid
      The Gudjohnsen name is set to grace football for a third consecutive generationCredit: PA:Press Association
      The Gudjohnsen youngsters have always had a knack for winning trophiesCredit: Instagram

      But in 2018, Barça lost their future talent to fierce rivals Real Madrid, which means two of Eidur’s sons are with Los Blancos.
      The family name certainly looks in good hands as it heads into an incredible third generation.
      Can they be as successful as their dad though? We’ll soon see. More

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      Ex-Man Utd wonderkid John Cofie cost the Red Devils £1m aged 14, retired at 27, and now mentors kids at school

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      IN 2007, promising striker John Cofie seemingly had the world at his feet.Then 14, the teenager had the world at his feet and was rated as one of the top talents in England playing for Burnley.
      Sean McGinty, Paul Pogba, Sam Johnstone, John Cofie and Jesse Lingard celebrate winning the FA Youth Cup for Man Utd in 2011Credit: Getty – Contributor
      Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United soon swooped for the wonderkid in an astonishing £1million deal – making him the youngest ever million pound footballer.
      However, he failed to make a single appearance for the Red Devils and left the club in 2013.
      Spells at clubs including Barnsley, Crawley Town and Wrexham failed to reignite his career.
      At 27, the former England U17 star hung up his boots – having played just 77 times for 13 different clubs.
      Today, Ghanaian-born Cofie works at a school in Lancashire, where he mentors kids in their football programme he was once a part of.
      WANTED BOY
      Cofie was brought over to the UK by Burnley after impressing at a football camp in Germany, where his father served in the army.
      He enrolled at Moorland School and was taken under the wing by their Head of Football Development, Charlie Jackson.
      Cofie starred at youth level for The Clarets and was soon called the best player of his generation.
      Astonishingly, managers from the country’s top clubs would try to visit Cofie at school to convince him to sign for them.
      Cofie was one of the leading players of his generation when he signed for United in 2007Credit: PA:Empics Sport
      While Cofie was an aspiring star at United, he was mentored by Moorland School coach Charlie JacksonCredit: Instagram
       “It was ridiculous. To name Chelsea and Liverpool doesn’t even begin to tell the story,” Jackson told the Burnley Express.
      “There were so many clubs and we had to turn certain managers from big clubs back down the drive.
      “They all wanted to speak to him face to face. He was a Liverpool fan as a kid so we thought he was going to go there and then United came in.”
      £1MILLION AT 14
      In 2007, it was Fergie who won the race to sign the prodigy.
      The £1million deal made him the youngest ever million pound footballer and world news.
      He continued his development in their youth team, where he would team up with a French boy wonder by the name of Paul Pogba, who he is still pals with today.
      And Cofie was an integral part of the club’s FA Youth Cup winning side in 2011.
      Jackson believes he was a better player as a kid than World Cup winner Pogba.
      Cofie was a member of United’s 2011 FA Youth Cup winning sideCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard are still pals with CofieCredit: Instagram
      “I think at 14 he was the best player,” Jackson said.
      “He was better than Pogba. The only player that ran him close was Ravel Morrison, who was an unbelievable talent, but the ups and downs in his world have changed him.”
      WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN
      But it was the pressure of the price tag that would take its toll on young Cofie.
      His prolific streak in front of goal in his formative years began to desert him with the burden of expectation weighing upon him.
      Jackson said: “The price tag was the scary thing and that’s something that I wanted to protect him from.
      “The £1.25m price tag at the time was ridiculous for such a young boy and the press got hold of that pretty quickly. I wouldn’t have released that if I was Burnley or Manchester United.
      “I think that was probably the beginning of the downfall of how that was going to go in my opinion. That’s the sad thing about football when you’re putting price tags on academy players.
      In 2013, Manchester United released CofieCredit: Pacemaker Press
      Jackson believes the price tag put too much pressure on CofieCredit: Instagram
      “It’s just madness. He went there, he was doing well but that price tag, later on, played its part. It’s a lot of pressure.”
      END OF THE ROAD
      By 2013, Cofie ended up on football’s scrapheap.
      He was released by United after several loans away at Royal Antwerp, Sheffield United and Notts County.
      During that period, he admittedly “fell out of love” with the game.
      “It was no shock to me because as I was growing up I was picking up what happened behind the scenes, going on loan I was getting an idea of what the industry was like,” Cofie told the Manchester Evening News.
      After he left United, Cofie became a journeyman footballerCredit: Bradley Ormesher – The Sun
      Southport FC was one of the many clubs who Cofie tried to resurrect his career atCredit: Bradley Ormesher – The Sun
      “Nothing in football surprises me, if you’re good enough they will keep you, if not then it’s bye.
      “It wasn’t an issue for me when it came. I sat down with Fergie, he was holding meetings with players anyway but I wanted to see him a few weeks earlier, he said what he had to say, I said what I had to say and that was that.
      “I left with my head held high.”
      THE AFTER LIFE
      Once he left United, Cofie became somewhat of a journeyman.
      Uninspired spells in Norway, Wales and even Northern Ireland failed to inspire him and game-time and injuries didn’t help his cause.
      So, in 2020 – at the age of just 27 – it was no surprise that he decided to hang up his boots.
      Now, he has joined his old mentor Jackson again at Moorland School, where he helps coach young kids who aspire to be the next football superstar.
      “Because John has played at a good level and played with some of the best players in the world, there’s ready-made advice for the kids,” Jackson explained.
      In 2020, at the age of just 27, Cofie hung up his bootsCredit: Bradley Ormesher – The Times
      Cofie is now back at Moorland School alongside Jackson as a mentor and coach for the kidsCredit: Instagram

      “It’s great to have him back, his enthusiasm hasn’t changed, he’s still got the same attitude to life, which is good. He’s not allowed football to define him, which is a big thing. Football can do that, good, bad or indifferent.
      “It’s been good to bring him back because he’s been able to speak to the kids about his past, present and what could potentially be their future.”
      Man Utd show off ‘Dr Rashford MBE’ jersey after hero forward awarded honorary doctorate from University of Manchester More

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      Meet Amanda Staveley, the Newcastle takeover leader and former model, who turned down Prince Andrew’s marriage proposal

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      AMANDA STAVELEY has led the Saudi Arabia-backed consortium trying to take over Newcastle United since 2017.Finally, the mega-connected businesswoman has been successful – with the £300m Toon takeover now announced.
      Businesswoman and former model Amanda Staveley led the Saudi-based takeover of NewcastleCredit: Camera Press
      Staveley met Prince Andrew in 2001 and they dated for two yearsCredit: Rex Features
      Staveley, herself, and her PCP Capital Partners firm are set to take a 10 per cent stake in the club as part of the deal, and she will take her seat on the board.
      But behind-the-scenes, the Yorkshire-born financier, 48, is battling a crippling brain disease that can lead to dementia.
      She was diagnosed with Huntington’s disease in 2013, for which there is no cure.
      And before she made her foray into the football world, Amanda was courted by ‘Randy Andy’ Prince Andrew.
      However, two years later the former blonde model, who stands 6ft tall in heels, turned down his hand in marriage because she didn’t want to become a Royal.
      THE MEETING PLACE
      In 2000, Staveley launched Q.ton – a health club, gym, restaurant and conference centre in the Cambridge Science Park for £10million.
      A year later, Andrew, then a UK trade ambassador, went to the science park with King Abdullah of Jordan, one of its many investors, and met Staveley for the first time.
      Immediately besotted by her beauty and intelligence, Andrew took her number and they began dating.
      The relationship was beneficial for both parties – Amanda was introduced to Andrew’s contacts book, while he reportedly enjoyed inaugurating her into his inner circle.
      According to reports, she called him “Babe”, while he sent her racy jokes in text messages and emails.
      Andrew soon became entranced by Staveley reportedly sending her racy text messagesCredit: Camera Press
      Andrew loved introducing Staveley to his high-society friendsCredit: Rex Features
      Andrew was so entranced by his new love, Staveley was invited to Buckingham Palace and Sandringham, while she also helped decorate his home in Windsor Great Park.
      The Queen and Prince Philip were believed to be delighted for Andrew, and gave Staveley their seal of approval.
      However, he couldn’t get her down the aisle. In 2003, she politely declined his marriage proposal.
      “Andrew’s a lovely man and I still care for him a great deal,” she told the Daily Mail.
      “But if I’d married him, my independence would have disappeared.”
      HUNTINGTON’S DISEASE
      In 2013, Amanda was diagnosed with Huntington’s disease – a degenerative disorder that affects people later in life.
      When the cruel illness takes effect, sufferers’ brain functions begin to slowly decline and mood swings, memory loss, as well as involuntary body movements are just some of the symptoms she could face.
      She was told by doctors that the disease is dormant, but could be triggered through stress and pressure at work.
      Amanda discovered she had inherited the Huntington’s gene from her mum Lyne – a former champion show-jumper – when she was tested before starting her own family at 37.
      In 2011, Staveley married Iranian businessman Mehrdad GhodoussiCredit: Robert Shack Photography
      Staveley suffers from Huntington’s diseaseCredit: Rex Features
      She credits husband Ghodoussi for being patient with herCredit: Avalon.red. All rights reserved.
      “The stress brings on the onset of the disease, and the disease is fatal,” she revealed to the Mail on Sunday.
      And she is the first to admit it has made her difficult for her husband, Mehrdad Ghodoussi, who she married in 2011.
      “I have the most incredibly patient and loving husband. I didn’t want to get married when I found out about the disease – but he said he didn’t care, and that we would find the best medical care available.”
      Although, rather strangely, Huntington’s made Amanda better with numbers when she was a City dealmaker with Barclays bank.

      “It’s actually very useful because I’ve never needed a calculator,” she said.
      “The Barclays guys were always shocked that I could do complicated financial models in my head. I thought I was just good with numbers – it turns out I was sick.”OVERCOMING ADVERSITIES
      Before she could count the likes of Simon Cowell and Sir Philip Green as mates, and was whisked around in a chauffeur-driven £250,000 Rolls Royce Phantom, Staveley had to overcome adversity as a teenager.
      Incredibly, she was accepted at Cambridge University aged just 16 – after completing her A-Levels in one year.
      But Amanda had to drop out after suffering a number of setbacks.
      Staveley has accrued a wealth of £120m and can count on mates including Sir Philip Green and Simon CowellCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Aged 16 Staveley was accepted to Cambridge UniversityCredit: Rex Features
      Her dad Robert Staveley, a north Yorkshire landowner who founded the Lightwater Valley theme park, suffered a heart attack.
      And her mum’s Huntington’s illness reared its ugly head, and she had her own personal issues to deal with too.
      “When I got to university my dad had a heart attack, my mum was very ill with Huntington’s, and I also had an eating disorder,” she said.
      “I was educated at a girls private school – Queen Margaret’s in York – and I found being educated with men at university very tough. I had a psychologist, I was sectioned, my weight dropped and I didn’t know how to cope.”
      MAKING CONTACTS
      At the age of 23, Staveley managed to convince a bank to lend her £180,000 to set up her own restaurant.
      Stocks was launched in the village of Bottisham, Cambridgeshire, where Amanda took on the role of chef and waitress – often working till 4am to make sure she was prepped for the next day.
      But, despite her long hours, it didn’t deter her from studying for her City exams with ambitions to become a financial adviser, as well as fulfilling modelling duties for extra cash.
      With its proximity to the Newmarket Racecourse, Stocks became a haunt for the flat-racing fraternity.
      Members of the Dubai-ruling family, the Maktoums, who own the Godolphin Stables, were regulars.
      Arab princes and dotcom tycoons from ‘Silicon Fen’ – a nickname given to a region of Cambridgeshire which is home to a cluster of high-tech businesses, were also customers.
      Staveley’s first business venture was Stocks restaurantCredit: 2008 AFP
      Over the years Staveley built up an enviable contacts bookCredit: PA:Press Association

      And with such high-prestige clientele, Staveley was well-placed to pick up an enviable contacts book when she finished her studies.
      Since her Stocks days, she has amassed a personal fortune worth around £120million, has a home in Dubai and a luxury apartment on Park Lane.
      Soon, she may just add a Quayside penthouse overlooking the Tyne to her property portfolio.
      Newcastle United Supporters Trust welcome proposed Saudi takeover More

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      Inside the amazing yacht of the Reuben brothers, who are worth £21.5bn, and part of the Newcastle United takeover

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      STEP inside the amazing £63MILLION superyacht owned by billionaire businessmen the Reuben brothers.Savvy David and Simon Reuben are worth a stunning £21.465billion, according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List.
      This is the amazing £63m yacht owned by racing tycoons the Reuben brothersCredit: Nobiskrug
      The incredible palace on water features a Jacuzzi outside with breathtaking ocean viewsCredit: Nobiskrug
      Simon Reuben, left, and brother David are worth more than £21bn
      And they are heavily involved in the £300million Saudi takeover bid by Crown Prince Bin Salman of Newcastle United, which is on the verge of being announced.
      One big source of their wealth – which has increased by more than £5bn in the past year – is their ownership of Arena Racing Company.
      The group owns and operates 16 turf and all-weather racecoures in the UK, accounting for almost half of all fixtures and more than 500 meetings a year.
      Notable courses under their ownership include Royal Windsor and Lingfield, as well as Doncaster.
      That is site of the world’s oldest classic race, the St Leger, which is held every year in September.
      And what better place to watch the action than on their jaw-dropping yacht named Siren?
      This 241ft palace on water can accommodate 12 guests in six cabins – and the master bedroom has an amazing fold-out balcony.
      There is reported to be a lift onboard to get between the four storeys and one of the most impressive features is the Jacuzzi on the deck.
      That is situated near to the helicopter landing pad, from where guests can hop off and go to the onboard gym or watch a movie in the indoor or outdoor cinema.
      The yacht – once voted the best in the world – features this awesome fold-out balconyCredit: Nobiskrug
      The stunning megayacht is 241ft in length and has room for 12 guestsCredit: Nobiskrug
      The billionaire brothers can land on their yacht by helicopterCredit: Nobiskrug
      The view from the master bedroom with fold-out balcony is simply jaw-droppingCredit: Nobiskrug
      The sun deck is perfect for catching raysCredit: Nobiskrug

      No wonder Siren won best yacht for its size at the 2009 World Superyachts Awards.
      David, believed to be 79, and Simon, thought to be 76, are self-made billionaires.
      David started out in scrap metal while Simon made his early money in the carpet business.
      After joining forces they struck big in Russia and became known as the ‘metal tsars’, controlling some 5 per cent of the world’s aluminium output through their company Trans-World Metals.
      However, a rumoured run-in with the Russian mafia prompted them to sell up and move on.
      There is believed to be a fully equipped gym plus indoor and outdoor cinema onboardCredit: Nobiskrug
      The yacht looks absolutely majestic when out at seaCredit: Alamy
      On their official website, a story detailing the Reuben brothers’ rise to riches says: “They sold the business in 2000 for more than £500m when the Russian mafia became more powerful and as their former business partner Lev Chernoy was being investigated.
      “They then set their sights on joining the big players in the British property market – and did it.
      “While they’re not willing to open their books or face the media, it is no secret the Reuben brothers are a powerful force.”
      There is no denying that, and the Mumbai-born brothers educated in North London make the most of their vast wealth.
      The brothers own Doncaster racecourse among a plethora of othersCredit: PA:Press Association
      They own a £19m private jet, a Capri nightclub enjoyed by the likes of Beyonce and George Clooney and the £120m Millbank Tower in central London.
      The duo have also been linked with the Newcastle takeover.
      They are willing to finance part of Amanda Staveley’s bid for control of the Premier League giants.
      How Newcastle could line-up under new Saudi owners – the richest in world More

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      Reuben brothers David and Simon have property worth £18bn, own a £54m yacht and are involved in Newcastle takeover

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      THEY say money can’t buy you happiness, but the Reuben brothers don’t seem to be complaining.The property tycoons are self-made billionaires and the second richest family in the UK, according to the Sunday Times Rich List.
      Simon Reuben, left, and David Reuben are part of a consortium set to take over NewcastleCredit: Getty – Contributor
      David Reuben, 79, and younger sibling Simon, 76, have amassed a staggering fortune of £18.6bn thanks to a business acumen even Lord Alan Sugar would be envious of.
      Over the years, they’ve splashed their wealth on a plethora of boys’ toys, including a £54million super yacht and a £19million private jet.
      They even own a nightclub in the exclusive Italian island of Capri that’s seen glamorous guests like Jennifer Lopez, George Clooney and Beyonce walk through its doors.
      Now, the pair are set to move into the football world.
      They have joined forces with Saudi Arabia prince Mohammad bin Salman and Amanda Staveley in a £300m takeover of Newcastle United from beleaguered owner Mike Ashley.
      They stand to own 10 per cent of the club, according to reports. This is their story.
      HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
      David and Simon were born in India to Jewish-Iraqi parents, and moved to London in the 1950s.
      The family grew up in poverty, and were poorly educated in a state school in Islington.
      They loved their football, but didn’t support their local team Arsenal, instead opting for London rivals Chelsea.
      Both left education when they were 17, David worked in scrap metal and began trading, while Simon started out in carpets, before buying England’s oldest carpet company from the receivers.
      In the past, Simon has been quoted as saying: “I can’t read a computer screen and never use a calculator. It’s all in my head and by hand.”
      The Reuben brothers are said to have amassed a fortune of over £18bnCredit: Camera Press
      The company made enough money for Simon to start spending on property, with early investments on Walton Street and the King’s Road in Chelsea.
      Eventually, the brothers joined forces by launching Trans-World Metals – an operation that specialised in aluminium and tin out of London and copper and tin out of New York.
      By 1984, the company was worth a staggering $20million, and at its peak they controlled around seven percent of the world’s aluminium output.PROPERTY MAGNATES
      The Reubens moved into Russian territory shortly after the break-up of the Soviet Union, buying half of Russia’s aluminium supply.
      Remarkably, their global sales topped $8bn in 1995.
      They did business with Roman Abramovich, as well as Oleg Deripaska, the oligarch pal of Nat Rothschild and Peter Mandelson.
      However, their relationship with Deripaska turned sour, and eventually the Reubens took him to court claiming damages of $300m in lost earnings.
      The Reubens have now focused their attentions on reshaping the London skyline. They redeveloped Paddington Basin, own Connaught House on Berkeley Square, as well as the John Lewis HQ in Victoria, Burlington Arcade, 100 Pall Mall, Clareville House, and several shops in pricey Sloane Square.
      After making a mint in aluminium, the Reubens went about changing London’s property landscape acquiring buildings like the Millbank Tower and CentreCredit: Alamy
      The trendy Curtain Hotel and Private Members Club in Shoreditch is a part of their vast property portfolioCredit: Alamy
      Burlington Arcade is also owned by the Reuben brothersCredit: Ben Gurr – The Times
      CAMBRIDGE HOUSE
      In 2017, they were granted planning permission to turn a former Piccadilly private members’ club into one of London’s most astonishing five star hotels, after acquiring the property for £130million in 2011.
      Originally, the site was the infamous In and Out Club that boasted past members like Lawrence of Arabia, Ian Fleming and Rudyard Kipling.
      The Grade I-listed property known as Cambridge House, also formerly a home of past PM Lord Palmerston, will also house a restaurant, bars, a spa, pool and gym, and seven residential apartments when it is built.
      But its most amazing feature will be its 2,360sq ft grand ballroom, double the size of the average home.
      In 2011, the Reuben brothers bought Cambridge House for £130m
      Former Prime Minister Lord Palmerston once lived in Cambridge HouseCredit: Susannah Ireland – The Times
      Planning permission was granted to turn Cambridge House into a lavish five star hotelCredit: Susannah Ireland – The Times
      BUY LAND, BY SEA
      Through their company Kristal Waters, the brothers built five super yachts.
      They sold four – Triple Seven, Sapphire, Mogambo and Graffiti, but kept the £54million Siren, which is now used by the pair as a private yacht.
      The 241-foot vessel has six cabins, a master suite, a VIP stateroom, three double cabins, as well as a twin cabin.
      The master suite also has a fold out balcony on which guests can enjoy incredible views of  the skies and the ocean.
      There is space for up to 12 guests, while 18 cabin crew can wait on you hand and foot.
      The Reubens are the proud owners of the Siren super yachtCredit: Alamy
      The £54m Siren boasts a stunning saloon room
      The dining room inside the Siren offers ample space for the family and guests
      The Reuben family enjoy the delights of the Siren
      JET-SET LIFE
      If travelling by sea doesn’t cut it for the Reubens, they have exclusive use of their own private jet worth around £19million.
      They own an Embraer 135BJ Legacy 650 that can fly up to 14 passengers in one flight.
      The jet has a top speed of 518mph and a maximum range of 3,740 miles, which means it can get to the States from the UK.
      But, the Reubens don’t have far to go when it comes to their mansions.

      The two, who live privately, are said to have splendid abodes in Monaco, a tax haven for men with money.
      Simon is said to have a flat in Knightsbridge, while David is shacked up in Holland Park.
      Their private life’s are just that – David’s wife is Debra, an American designer. Simon is married to Joyce Reuben, and they are sometimes seen at high-society functions, mingling with socialites and hanging out with celeb pals including Joan Collins.
      The Reubens share this £19m private jet
      Simon Reuben enjoys mingling with high society, but manages to remain privateCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Joan Collins is a pal of the Reuben brothersCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Simon is married to Joyce ReubenCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      David Reuben poses with wife Debra and their daughter LisaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      FOREIGN VENTURES
      If a burgeoning London property portfolio isn’t enough, the Reuben brothers have expanded overseas.
      They completed the acquisition of the iconic La Palma Hotel in Capri, the first and oldest hotel on the island, opened in 1822, and are planning an extensive renovation.
      La Taverna Anema e Core, Capri’s most famous nightclub, comes with that investment – a spot where Hollywood glitterati like Beyonce, J-Lo and Clooney are happy to let down their hair.
      Add to that hotels in Mykonos, Ibiza, Greece and the US, you can imagine Newcastle United’s stars may be thinking they’ll be getting mates’ rates when booking their summer holidays.
      The Reubens acquired the Hotel La Palma in Capri, ItalyCredit: Alamy
      The Hotel La Palma is the oldest hotel on the island of Capri
      La Taverna Anema e Core is a nightclub that has hosted George Clooney, Jennifer Lopez and BeyonceCredit: Alamy
      El Hotel de Pacha in Ibiza is another hotel the Reuben brothers have invested inCredit: Alamy
      The San Remo Hotel de Paris, Luxury Hotel and Spa is also part of the Reubens vast hotel portfolioCredit: Alamy
      FAMILY VALUES
      The Reuben heirs are just as flamboyant and interesting as their fathers.
      James, the son of David, is managing partner of investment firm, Melbury Capital, as well as a director at Britain’s largest horse racing company, Arena Racing Company.
      He is  also the first family member to get into football, and currently sits on the board of QPR.
      While David’s other son David Jr had a hippyish wedding at the Burning Man festival in Nevada last year, where he married sexy Colombian actress Carolina Guerra.
      James Reuben is a friend of the Hollywood glitterati, hanging out with the likes of Justin BieberCredit: Getty Images
      James Reuben Jr is also on the board of QPRCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      David Reuben Jr had a hippyish wedding at the Burning Man Festival last year to Colombian actress Carolina Guerra

      Lisa Reuben, posing with ex Arsenal star Mathieu Flamini, works for SothebysCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      Their cousin, Lisa works in the contemporary art department of posh auctioneers Sotheby’s.
      Her wedding to coal and steel trader Ron Valk  took place at the plush Monte Carlo Sporting Carlo, which was decorated with 5,000 white roses for the nuptials.
      Whatever the Reubens plans for Newcastle are, it’s clear that they’re not afraid of spending a bit of money. More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Amanda Staveley, the Newcastle takeover leader and former model, who rejected Prince Andrew’s marriage proposal

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      AMANDA STAVELEY has led the Saudi Arabia-backed consortium trying to take over Newcastle United since 2017.Finally, it appears the mega-connected businesswoman has been successful – with the Toon set be taken over in a £300million deal.
      Businesswoman and former model Amanda Staveley led the Saudi-based takeover of NewcastleCredit: Camera Press
      Staveley met Prince Andrew in 2001 and they dated for two yearsCredit: Rex Features
      Staveley, herself, and her PCP Capital Partners firm are set to take a 10 per cent stake in the club as part of the deal, and she will take her seat on the board.
      But behind-the-scenes, the Yorkshire-born financier, 48, is battling a crippling brain disease that can lead to dementia.
      She was diagnosed with Huntington’s disease in 2013, for which there is no cure.
      And before she made her foray into the football world, Amanda was courted by ‘Randy Andy’ Prince Andrew.
      However, two years later the former blonde model, who stands 6ft tall in heels, turned down his hand in marriage because she didn’t want to become a Royal.
      THE MEETING PLACE
      In 2000, Staveley launched Q.ton – a health club, gym, restaurant and conference centre in the Cambridge Science Park for £10million.
      A year later, Andrew, then a UK trade ambassador, went to the science park with King Abdullah of Jordan, one of its many investors, and met Staveley for the first time.
      Immediately besotted by her beauty and intelligence, Andrew took her number and they began dating.
      The relationship was beneficial for both parties – Amanda was introduced to Andrew’s contacts book, while he reportedly enjoyed inaugurating her into his inner circle.
      According to reports, she called him “Babe”, while he sent her racy jokes in text messages and emails.
      Andrew soon became entranced by Staveley reportedly sending her racy text messagesCredit: Camera Press
      Andrew loved introducing Staveley to his high-society friendsCredit: Rex Features
      Andrew was so entranced by his new love, Staveley was invited to Buckingham Palace and Sandringham, while she also helped decorate his home in Windsor Great Park.
      The Queen and Prince Philip were believed to be delighted for Andrew, and gave Staveley their seal of approval.
      However, he couldn’t get her down the aisle. In 2003, she politely declined his marriage proposal.
      “Andrew’s a lovely man and I still care for him a great deal,” she told the Daily Mail.
      “But if I’d married him, my independence would have disappeared.”
      HUNTINGTON’S DISEASE
      In 2013, Amanda was diagnosed with Huntington’s disease – a degenerative disorder that affects people later in life.
      When the cruel illness takes effect, sufferers’ brain functions begin to slowly decline and mood swings, memory loss, as well as involuntary body movements are just some of the symptoms she could face.
      She was told by doctors that the disease is dormant, but could be triggered through stress and pressure at work.
      Amanda discovered she had inherited the Huntington’s gene from her mum Lyne – a former champion show-jumper – when she was tested before starting her own family at 37.
      In 2011, Staveley married Iranian businessman Mehrdad GhodoussiCredit: Robert Shack Photography
      Staveley suffers from Huntington’s diseaseCredit: Rex Features
      She credits husband Ghodoussi for being patient with herCredit: Avalon.red. All rights reserved.
      “The stress brings on the onset of the disease, and the disease is fatal,” she revealed to the Mail on Sunday.
      And she is the first to admit it has made her difficult for her husband, Mehrdad Ghodoussi, who she married in 2011.
      “I have the most incredibly patient and loving husband. I didn’t want to get married when I found out about the disease – but he said he didn’t care, and that we would find the best medical care available.”
      Although, rather strangely, Huntington’s made Amanda better with numbers when she was a City dealmaker with Barclays bank.

      “It’s actually very useful because I’ve never needed a calculator,” she said.
      “The Barclays guys were always shocked that I could do complicated financial models in my head. I thought I was just good with numbers – it turns out I was sick.”OVERCOMING ADVERSITIES
      Before she could count the likes of Simon Cowell and Sir Philip Green as mates, and was whisked around in a chauffeur-driven £250,000 Rolls Royce Phantom, Staveley had to overcome adversity as a teenager.
      Incredibly, she was accepted at Cambridge University aged just 16 – after completing her A-Levels in one year.
      But Amanda had to drop out after suffering a number of setbacks.
      Staveley has accrued a wealth of £120m and can count on mates including Sir Philip Green and Simon CowellCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Aged 16 Staveley was accepted to Cambridge UniversityCredit: Rex Features
      Her dad Robert Staveley, a north Yorkshire landowner who founded the Lightwater Valley theme park, suffered a heart attack.
      And her mum’s Huntington’s illness reared its ugly head, and she had her own personal issues to deal with too.
      “When I got to university my dad had a heart attack, my mum was very ill with Huntington’s, and I also had an eating disorder,” she said.
      “I was educated at a girls private school – Queen Margaret’s in York – and I found being educated with men at university very tough. I had a psychologist, I was sectioned, my weight dropped and I didn’t know how to cope.”
      MAKING CONTACTS
      At the age of 23, Staveley managed to convince a bank to lend her £180,000 to set up her own restaurant.
      Stocks was launched in the village of Bottisham, Cambridgeshire, where Amanda took on the role of chef and waitress – often working till 4am to make sure she was prepped for the next day.
      But, despite her long hours, it didn’t deter her from studying for her City exams with ambitions to become a financial adviser, as well as fulfilling modelling duties for extra cash.
      With its proximity to the Newmarket Racecourse, Stocks became a haunt for the flat-racing fraternity.
      Members of the Dubai-ruling family, the Maktoums, who own the Godolphin Stables, were regulars.
      Arab princes and dotcom tycoons from ‘Silicon Fen’ – a nickname given to a region of Cambridgeshire which is home to a cluster of high-tech businesses, were also customers.
      Staveley’s first business venture was Stocks restaurantCredit: 2008 AFP
      Over the years Staveley built up an enviable contacts bookCredit: PA:Press Association

      And with such high-prestige clientele, Staveley was well-placed to pick up an enviable contacts book when she finished her studies.
      Since her Stocks days, she has amassed a personal fortune worth around £120million, has a home in Dubai and a luxury apartment on Park Lane.
      Soon, she may just add a Quayside penthouse overlooking the Tyne to her property portfolio.
      Newcastle United Supporters Trust welcome proposed Saudi takeover More

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      in Soccer

      Barcelona kid Gavi, 17, has been likened to legend Xavi and is now Spain’s youngest ever international

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      BARCELONA kid Gavi, 17, has already gone down in the record books.When Luis Enrique named him in his first eleven in the Nations League semi final against Italy, he became Spain’s youngest ever international.
      Barcelona wonderkid Gavi provided a star turn against Bayern Munich as a subCredit: AFP
      Midfielder Gavi has been tipped as the next Xavi at the Nou CampCredit: Getty
      “It was his first game with Spain, but we already knew all about him,” Luis Enrique said after the game.
      “It’s not normal that he plays like that [at 17]. He’s a player with personality, enviable physical conditions and he plays our style of football. He plays like he’s at school or in his garden at home.
      “It’s a pleasure to have a player with that quality and character with us. We can say that he’s the national team’s present, not [just] the future.”
      And he deserved his bow for his country, after emerging on the scene at Camp Nou.
      Barcelona may have been on the receiving end of Champions League thumpings at home to Bayern Munich and away against Benfica, but Gavi is getting a valuable lesson in game time.
      The struggling LaLiga club have seen an opportunity to bleed a youngster that’s going to be integral to their success moving forward, as their fortunes suffer on the pitch.
      In the 59th minute against Bayern, boss Ronald Koeman brought teen wonderkid Gavi, 17, on for stalwart Sergio Busquets.
      15 minutes later, the attacking midfielder tried to burst through the Germans defence before he was expertly stopped by Dayot Upamecano. However, the potential was there to see and the crowd responded every time he touched the ball.
      On Wednesday, Gavi became his country’s youngest ever internationalCredit: Getty
      Perhaps he was lucky to stay on the field after consecutive fouls on Thomas Muller and Dayot Upamecano, but fans were already buoyed by what they had seen.
      Gavi, who has been likened to Spain legend Xavi, is the future of Barça’s and Spain’s midfield.
      ARRIVED FROM BETIS
      Although he already appears to have the Barcelona style of play engrained in his DNA, he didn’t join La Masia until he was 11.
      Originally from Los Palacios y Villafrance, some 18 miles outside of Seville, Gavi’s technical ability made him a standout.
      He played for Real Betis, scoring 96 goals in youth football, and getting scouted by Villarreal, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid.
      But in 2005, it was Barcelona who convinced the talent his future belonged at the Nou Camp.
      Gavi, playing against Real Madrid as a kid, signed for Barcelona aged 11Credit: Instagram / @pablogavi10
      Gavi played last season in a mask after breaking his jawCredit: Getty
      “He is so technically gifted,” his former La Masia coach Franc Artiga told Goal.
      “He is capable of changing a what he is about to do in tenths of a second, and improvising under any circumstance of the game.
      “It is very difficult to find a player with these abilities, and with this speed of execution.”
      Gavi rose through the ranks and skipped U18 football to go straight into the U19 team last term.
      “Physically, this year he has evolved a lot,” Artiga said.
      “He has made the change and is now a very strong player.
      “This physique complements his technical quality and decision making. He now has the quality to protect the ball. His lower body helps him and has made him more competitive in the youth teams.”
      ‘HYPERCOMPETITIVE’
      As was proven by his over-eagerness in the tackle against Bayern Munich on Tuesday night, Gavi’s competitive nature can get the best of him in the pitch.
      “He  is hypercompetitive,” Artiga revealed.
      “He is one of the most competitive players I know. That is something you have to stabilise.
      “He has improved a lot in the control of his emotions. He is always on top of them, while keeping a winning mentality until the last minute. He still, though, has room for improvement in this.”
      Last season, Gavi appeared for the Barcelona B team twice before he was promoted to the first team for this summer’s preseason friendlies.
      It was against VfB Stuttgart in a 3-0 friendly win, where he earned comparisons to ex-Barcelona star Xavi.
      So far, he has already appeared seven times for the Catalans in LaLiga.
      Gavi’s cameo against Bayern Munich had fans on their feetCredit: Rex
      Competitive Gavi does sometimes let his emotions get the better of him on the football pitchCredit: Getty

      But, they do want to ease him in gentle. After all, there is the belief he will be gracing the Nou Camp for years to come.
      Artiga divulged: “He plays and executes on instinct. More experience will help him be able to read the game, and not act so much on instinct.
      “We have to be patient, we have to let him reach certain objectives.
      “If we do things well and have a good environment, we will have Gavi for many years.”
      Lionel Messi tipped to return to Barcelona and retire after winning Champions League with PSG by Riquelme More