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      Bodybuilder football star Hulk ditched his wife to be with her gorgeous niece, who is now expecting his fourth child

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      BRAZILIAN footballer Hulk is set to be a daddy once again – with his ex-wife’s niece.The former Shanghai SIPG star, 35, who once earned a whopping £16.6million-per-year playing in China, announced his wife Camila is expecting his fourth child in an Instagram post on Monday.
      Atletico Mineiro ace Hulk announced he is expecting a baby with his former wife’s niece, CamilaCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba
      The Brazilian international poses alongside stunning Camila
      The Brazilian got his nickname because of his resemblance to bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno, who played The Incredible HulkCredit: Getty – Contributor
      But while they’re happy and smiling now, their relationship was born out of controversy.
      Gorgeous Camila, 32, is incredibly the niece of the former Porto ace’s ex-wife, Iran Angelo.
      Hulk, who now stars for Atletico Mineiro, was married to Iran for 12 years before he ditched her for the Brazilian model.
      It was a romance that stunned the South American football world, and seemingly caused a massive betrayal.
      KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY
      The bodybuilding forward, real name Givanildo Vieira de Sousa, was believed to have ended his marriage some time in 2019.
      Shortly after, reports linked Hulk to Iran’s beautiful niece Camila Angelo.
      By March 2020, he wrote on his social media bio that he was ‘married’ again.
      Hulk divorced his wife of 12 years Iran Angelo, left, and began dating her beautiful niece Camila Angelo months later
      The pair have posted several pictures wearing what looks like wedding rings
      Angelo and Hulk have never confirmed their nuptials
      According to reports, Hulk married Angelo so she could get a visa to stay in China
      The couple then posted several pictures together since wearing what appear to be wedding rings.
      Argentine newspaper Infobae later revealed ‘sudden marriage was also due to’ the fact Camila ‘needed a visa to stay in the country (China)’.
      A representative of the former Brazil ace confirmed the relationship to Brazilian website UOL Esporte at the time, claiming that his position was ‘transparent’.
      The statement read: “Hulk called Camila’s parents and brother to tell them the truth. They began dating in October.
      “It was Hulk himself who made the news public because he did not want to hide anything. His position is transparent.”
      Camila was reportedly Iran’s ‘favourite niece’, with the pair sharing many happy pictures together on Instagram.
      She posted a lengthy message to Iran on what appeared to be her official Instagram, explaining the new relationship.
      Camila wrote: “Aunt Iran, I first want to tell you that this message is not an explanation or justification of anything.
      “I needed to tell you some things that unfortunately circumstances do not allow me to say personally.
      “Although it is irrelevant to you now, I love you very much and care about you, so I am speaking here.
      “I really want you to know things that maybe everyone will talk about differently, mere speculation, but I don’t really judge them because outsiders know absolutely nothing and most of the time just want the situation to be worse.
      “It’s been very hard to face all this, but I wouldn’t do it if it wasn’t true.
      “I never imagined it could happen, but we don’t rule our heart, no one is immune or exempt from it. Live the greatest of feelings.
      “I’m sorry for everything. If I could choose, we wouldn’t be going through this, but life doesn’t spin the way we imagine it to.
      “He showed me that there was no chance of a possible return, so we allowed ourselves to live.”
      Iran has since spoken out on the ‘great pain’ her ex-husband’s relationship with his niece has caused her, but Hulk has slammed his former partner for ‘treating me like a monster’ and has addressed her allegations of infidelity.
      He said: “I never had a relationship with Camila when I was married. I am a man. I was not happy in my marriage.
      “I had countless reasons. I spent my entire marriage betraying Iran. She lived a single life. She just wanted to have the status of wife of the Hulk.
      “Camila came to China. I don’t think I’m an ugly person and I’m young. Camila is young and extremely beautiful. We ended up getting involved. We were single.”
      Since revealing their romance, Hulk and Camila’s romance has gone from strength to strength
      Hulk has always denied claims of infidelity with Camila
      BABY NEWS
      Since their romance reveal, Hulk and Camila’s relationship has continued to go from strength to strength.
      And now they’ve shared some exciting news… the pair are expecting their first baby together.
      Hulk uploaded photos of the couple holding up ultrasound scan photos of the unborn baby while holding Camila up in the air.
      “Today with a heart full of gratitude to God, I come to share with you that for the fourth time I am being blessed with another child,” he wrote in a post.
      “My heart overflows with so much happiness and I can only say thank you God. We are already looking forward to receiving you child, and we love you unconditionally. Come full of health my baby.”
      Hulk also posted a video dancing with his wife and lifting her in his arms as she held on to the hospital snaps.
      He also has two sons, Ian and Tiago, and a daughter, Alice from his previous marriage to Iran.
      Brazilian footballer Hulk shares a kiss with Camila, as well as their baby scanCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba
      Camila is the niece of Hulk’s ex-wife Iran Angelo, who he has three children with
      Hulk took to social media to express their exciting baby newsCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba
      THE BIG MAN
      Hulk first emerged on the scene in Europe with Porto in 2008.
      His staggering size always stood out on the football pitch, and he was christened Hulk because of his likeness to actor and bodybulder Lou Ferrigno.
      He was renowned for being built like an ox, and it was impossible to shrug him off the ball because of his strength.
      Astonishingly, while playing in China, he managed to become supersized and looks even bigger today.
      Fans were left agasp when he returned to training with Shanghai SIPG somehow looking even more muscular.
      Hulk shared video and pics of himself staying fit by hitting his home gym, which kept him occupied when the world was in lockdown.
      And the benefits were there for all to see.
      Hulk was always renowned for his huge physiqueCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The beefy forward was a hulking presence
      Today’s Hulk is more defined
      HE’S GOT GOALS
      The misconception of Hulk is that he’s a novelty footballer, because of his gargantuan size.
      However, as they say, never judge a book by its cover.
      Capped 47 times by Brazil, he’s scored 11 international goals – playing mostly as a winger.
      His career took off in Japan’s second division with Tokyo Verdy in 2007, before he moved to Porto a year later.
      It took him two seasons to find his feet in Portugal, and there was bother along the way.
      Following a tunnel brawl during a 1-0 league loss to fierce rivals Benfica, Hulk was suspended for four games.
      But in the 2010-11 season he began to push on. An impressive 35 goals in 53 games during Porto’s treble year, in which they also lifted the Europa League, elevated him to new heights.
      Trouble still followed him wherever he went though, in 2014 he was forced to pay £42,000 fine for assaulting two stewards.
      Hulk made his name in Europe at PortoCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      Hulk went to Russia to play with Zenit Saint Petersburg after PortoCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      In 2016 he became one of the world’s highest paid players joining Shanghai SIPGCredit: Rex Features
      HE LIVES THE HIGH LIFE
      Although he was linked to a move to the Premier League when he was a free agent, Hulk opted to return home to Atletico Mineiro in 2021.
      His currently salary is believed to be around £40,000-per-week – a pittance to what he was once paid.
      In China, where he played for five years, he earned around £320,000-per-week – althought that is still some way off what former Chelsea star Oscar earned. He pocketed an astonishing £400,000-per-week.
      Hulk stands outside his private jet, which bears the striker’s signature on the outsideCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba
      Inside the aircraft there are sketches of the Brazilian scoring goals throughout his careerCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba
      At 35 Hulk still has lots to offer and stars for Atletico Mineiro
      And he lives some life off the pitch, as you can imagine.
      In 2018, he was pictured on board his own private jet, which features his signature on the side.

      Inside, the cabin is decorated with his own image.
      Hulk is also a keen art collector, spending his wages on rare paintings by renowned artists.
      Now, it will be a baby that will be getting his undivided attention.
      Watch fuming Hulk shove rival in brawl as bodybuilder footballer is sent off for ‘fighting back’ after being SCRATCHED More

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      Messi, Ronaldo, Rooney and more stars who trained on their backyard pitches during coronavirus crisis

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      LIFE’S a pitch for these footballers who all have football pitches installed in their huge mansions.Wayne Rooney, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo were just some of the self-isolating stars that honed their skills at home when football was halted due to the coronavirus pandemic last year.
      Lionel Messi takes a stroll on his football pitch with his kids and French Mastiff poochCredit: Instagram
      PREMIER LEAGUE’S FINEST
      Ex-West Ham star Jack Wilshere has a sprawling back garden that he loves to shoot balls around.
      Although Jack got himself in hot water with his neighbours who complained that netting around the pitch was an eyesore.
      While some like John Terry and Rio Ferdinand have full-sized goals to add that extra bit of realism and get some shooting practice in.
      But it’s Paul Pogba, Phil Neville and Benjamin Mendy who have taken it one step further by having indoor pitches inside their sprawling houses.
      Cristiano Ronaldo had a dugout by his football pitch in his garden in his former home in TurinCredit: Instagram
      Come rain or snow, John Terry loves to have a kickabout on his pitch in his Cobham homeCredit: Instagram
      Paul Pogba has his branding all over the centre circle of his indoor turfCredit: Instagram
      No expense was spared with Paul Pogba’s indoor turfCredit: AFP or licensors
      Jack Wilshere had a row with his neighbours over the netting of his football pitchCredit: Collect
      BRAND POGBA
      The Man United midfielder has his ‘PP’ initials etched into the centre circle, just to let you know it’s his pitch. Clever branding.
      Mendy has a small strip of astroturf on which he loves showing off his ball juggling skills with his mates.
      Alongside the artificial turf the Man City defender has a scoreboard, presumably so he can keep count  of how many keepie uppies he can do.
      Neville’s looks more like an oversized Subbuteo pitch. He did try to sell his home in 2015 but couldn’t find any takers.
      Wayne Rooney grabs son Kai on his garden pitchCredit: BBC
      Wayne and Kai Rooney play on the pitch which also doubles as a tennis courtCredit: BBC
      Benjamin Mendy has an indoor turf that’s perfect for practising keepie uppiesCredit: Instagram
      Rio Ferdinand likes his pitch to have a full-sized goalCredit: Instagram
      Wayne Rooney’s kids are fans of their dad’s garden football pitchCredit: Instagram
      Phil Neville struggled to sell his Cheshire home which featured this Subbuteo-like pitchCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Steven Ireland’s football pitch is perfect for cage footballCredit: Tony Spencer – The Sun
      Was it the football pitch that put prospective buyers off? Who knows, but the football bean bags are a nice touch.IRELAND’S CAGE
      Then there’s Steven Ireland’s… a man known for his outrageous taste in cars, his mini pitch is reminiscent of the cage in the Nike ads.
      But there’s one thing Messi, Ronaldo, Terry, Rooney, and Glen Johnson all have in common.

      They all have kids, which gives these football stars the perfect excuse to have a kickabout in their back yards with their offspring.
      After all, they’re pitch perfect.
      Glen Johnson’s kids enjoy playing together in dad’s backyard with a five-a-side goal
      Lionel Messi can hone his skills on his very own football pitch in his Barcelona homeCredit: AFP or licensors
      Lionel Messi’s wife Antonella Roccuzzo and his son Ciro have a turf lifeCredit: Instagram
      Benjamin Mendy’s indoor pitch also has a scoreboardCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Premier League season WILL be finished at some point – but delay is extended More

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      What happened to players called the ‘Next Messi’, from youngest LaLiga star Romero to ex-Man City ace Patrick Roberts

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      MORE than a dozen players have been dubbed the ‘Next Messi’ over the years.But none have ever reached the heights scaled by PSG and Argentina star Lionel Messi… not even close.
      The ‘Next Messis’ from all around the world
      Luka Romero, the ‘Mexican Messi’, made his debut for Mallorca age 15Credit: EPA
      Last year, the new ‘Mexican Messi’ (we’ve had one before in Diego Lainez) Luka Romero made LaLiga history.
      At just 15, the diminutive teen came on as a sub against Real Madrid in June 2020 and became the youngest player to play in the Spanish top-flight, also showing fans what the fuss is all about with some neat touches, before signing for Lazio this summer.
      While, Arsenal were once linked with what was then the latest ‘Next Messi’ – Iranian Zenit St Petersburg star Sardar Azmoun.
      In the summer of 2019, Manchester United were said to be monitoring Trabzonspor teenager Abdulkadir Omur, the ‘Turkish Messi’.
      The world map has almost been filled in with different ‘Next Messis’ from around the globe.
      From Peru to South Africa and Japan to Iran, two dozen countries have produced their own version of the little genius.
      Even Scotland had one while England have two.
      Here’s how they got on…
      Lionel Messi is still arguably the best player in the worldCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The English Messi – Patrick Roberts
      Burst on to the scene as a teenager at Fulham and after some impressive performances as a teenager, Man City splashed £12million on him.
      He barely got into the City side before a long loan spell at Celtic.
      Although he won seven trophies under Brendan Rodgers, Roberts had a number of injury issues and did not hit the heights expected of him.
      Another loan spell to Girona last season didn’t really work out – while stints at Norwich and Middlesbrough last term have been uninspiring.
      Roberts went on loan at Derby, who narrowly avoided relegation to League One with a thrilling 3-3 draw on the final day of the Championship season.
      Now, he’s at French side Troyes.
      Mini Messi – Fran Kirby
      One of the players most deserving of the tag, the England and Chelsea star is one of the biggest stars in the women’s game.
      Kirby, who stands at just 5ft 2in, is a former PFA and FWA player of the year and has been a vital player in all of the Lionesses’ recent success.
      In December 2018, Kirby was voted the 13th best player in the world in an extensive newspaper poll.
      England star Fran Kirby has been dubbed Mini Messi – and is one of the best players in the women’s gameCredit: PA:Press Association
      Scottish Messi – Ryan Gauld
      Gauld was 17 when he made his debut for Dundee United and began tearing it up in Scotland, helping The Terrors reach the Scottish Cup final in 2014.
      After being shortlisted for Young Player of the Year, Gauld was snapped up by Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon.
      But Gauld only made two league appearances for Sporting, all in 2014 and early 2015, and went on four unsuccessful loan spells.
      He’s now at MLS side Vancouver Whitecaps FC, after a spell at Portuguese second tier side Farense.
      Swiss Messi – Xherdan Shaqiri
      The Messi comparisons are definitely a step too far but Shaqiri – formerly of Liverpool – is quite obviously a talent good enough for most teams in the world.
      He has played at some of the biggest clubs and scored at two World Cups and the European Championship.
      Injuries limited his impact at the Reds, and he moved  to Lyon in the summer.

      Egyptian Messi – Mohamed Salah
      Speaking of whom, there was a time when Salah being compared to Messi would have been impossible to imagine… namely at Chelsea.
      Now thriving at Liverpool, the Egyptian king isn’t quite at Messi’s level – but he’s pretty damn close.
      This was a tag from when the forward was still at Basel and, in all honesty, it’s quite fair.
      Salah is now one of the best players in the world and will soon have players being dubbed the ‘Next Salah’.
      Mohamed Salah is now at the level were other players are dubbed the ‘Next Salah’Credit: AFP or licensors
      Catalan Messi – Gerard Deulofeu
      Certainly has enough natural talent to earn comparisons to one of the best ever.
      But the winger, now at Udinese following stints at Everton and Watford, does not have the consistency or work rate to compare himself to Messi.
      Deulofeu struggled in two spells at Barca but was instrumental to the Hornets getting to the FA Cup final in 2019.
      German Messi – Marko Marin
      Arrived at Chelsea in 2012 with a massive reputation but – like so many other Blues youngsters – never got a fair chance at Stamford Bridge.
      Was sent on four loan spells in three seasons and managed just six Premier League games in West London.
      Marin has since won trophies in Greece, Spain and Serbia.
      Croatian Messi – Alen Halilovic
      Another Barcelona graduate, the diminutive Croatian international has the technique but has struggled with the physicality of senior football.
      Loan spells at Sporting Gijon have brought little success.
      He is currently at Championship side Reading after a spell at AC Milan, in which he failed to play a single Serie A game, instead loaned out to Dutch side Heerenveen after a poor loan spell at Standard Liege, and then Birmingham.
      Norwegian Messi – Martin Odegaard
      One of the most hyped teenagers in Europe, the Norwegian jumped from Stromsgodset to Real Madrid in 2015.
      He initially struggled to live up to the hype and a two-year loan spell at Heerenveen brought inconsistent play.
      But last season on loan at Real Sociedad, Odegaard was excellent – putting himself in the frame to break back into the Madrid first-team.
      The Norwegian signed for Arsenal this summer after a loan spell as he looks to fulfil his promise.
      Martin Odegaard was one of the most hyped teenage players everCredit: EPA
      Irish Messi – Alan Judge
      Definitely a tongue-in-cheek nickname, the winger earned the title while starring for Brentford for five years between 2014 and 2019.
      Judge helped the Bees reach the Championship and stay in the second tier, and was named in the PFA teams of the year in 2013 and 2016.
      He was at Ipswich, helping the Tractor Boys to ninth in League One in 2020-21, before signing for Colchester.
      Peruvian Messi – Raul Ruidiaz
      Actually nicknamed ‘Little Messi’, the Peruvian scored a mountain of goals in Peru and Mexico before moving to MLS in 2018.
      The striker has been sensational for the Seattle Sounders, scoring 58 goals in 89 games.
      Kosovan Messi – Edon Zhergrova
      Edon Zhegrova became a YouTube sensation back in 2014 after compilations of the then 15-year old’s dazzling goals gained thousands of views.
      The Arsenal, PSG and Barcelona moves did not materialise, but a move to Belgium’s Standard Liege and then Genk did, where he is coming through the ranks.
      Basel then decided to take a longer look at him with an 18-month loan deal.
      The No10 has played a handful of games for the club but is expected to play a bigger role in the future.
      Indian Messi – Lallianzuala Chhangte
      The Chennaiyin winger became the youngest Indian international when he made his debut in 2015.
      But, now aged 24, the hype has died down a bit with Chhangte unable to build on that early promise.
      Japanese Messi – Takefusa Kubo
      Still just 20, Kubo has the best chance of any player to live up to the moniker.
      The former FC Tokyo forward even came through the ranks at Barcelona, where he was a youth star, before returning to Japan.
      He would have stayed at La Masia but after Barca’s transfer ban he was no longer eligible to play in competitive matches, so decided to return to his homeland.
      He is the youngest player to play and score in the J.League and has been a regular in the FC Tokyo side.
      Kubo was snapped up by Real Madrid last season, a major coup for Los Blancos – but was quickly loaned to Mallorca before joining Getafe on a short-term deal earlier in 2021.
      Barcelona had wanted the playmaker – but were fooled into thinking he was not available until next January after an error on the Transkfermarkt website.
      Real Madrid knew the correct date his contract was up and swooped.
      Kubo, who was also selected in Japan’s 2019 Copa America squad, is back on loan at Mallorca for this season.
      Takefusa Kubo (left) came through the ranks at Barcelona and is expected to be a big star in JapanCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Greek Messi – Giannis Fetfatzidis
      The little winger never lived up to the moniker after coming through at Olympiacos.
      Has since played in Italy and Saudi Arabia, but is now at Qatari side Al-Khor at the age of 31.
      Iranian Messi – Sardar Azmoun
      A number of European clubs were interested in Azmoun a few years ago, including Arsenal, who offered £2m for the rapid forward.
      Now 26, Azmoun is a star in Russia, where he has scored 58 times in just 90 games while winning three Russian Premier League titles.
      Iranian Messi Azmoun has been linked to ArsenalCredit: AFP or licensors
      Indonesian Messi – Egy Maulana Vikri
      Aged just 21, Egy is already a full international having been a prodigy at youth level.
      He had scored 15 goals in 16 matches for Indonesia Under-19s, attracting attention from big clubs in Europe.
      Eventually, Maulana chose Lechia Gdansk where he also impressed for the reserves, scoring 12 goals in 14 matches in the Polish fourth tier.
      He made his full debut in 2020 and is now a six-cap senior international for Indonesia.
      Another Mexican Messi – Diego Lainez
      The 21-year-old has the potential to be a big star and has consistently been named as one of the players to keep an eye on in the coming years.
      The teenager is already a full international for El Tri and was signed by Real Betis for £9m in January 2019.
      He has since been a regular from the bench for Los Verdiblancos.
      Diego Lainez, 21, is already a full Mexican international and moved to Real Betis for £9mCredit: Getty – Contributor
      South Korean Messi – Lee Seung-woo
      Lee was once hailed as South Korea’s great hope of the future and was another graduate of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy.
      He moved to Catalonia in 2011, but managed just one appearance for Barcelona B, before moving to Hellas Verona in 2017.
      Now 23, the winger has quit the Italian side to join Belgian outfit Sint-Truiden but became a national hero for his exploits in the Asian Games.
      Lee provided the assist for Tottenham’s Son Heung-min to score a winner – the goal also meant the Spurs man would avoid national service.
      Malaysian Messi – Faiz Nasir
      One of the smallest players in world football, Nasir stands at just 5ft.
      But there is plenty of talent in those little legs, with the Terengganu FC star scoring on his international debut last year.
      Nigerian Messi – Stanley Okoro
      Nicknamed ‘Little Messi’, Okoro spent time in Spain with Almeria but struggled to make a breakthrough.
      Now playing in his native Nigeria, he certainly likes the nickname, however, stating: “I don’t mind when people call me Little Messi.
      “It’s a pleasant thing to be compared with the best footballer in the world – I don’t have a problem with that.”
      Thai Messi – Chanathip Songkrasin
      Songkrasin is known as ‘Messi Jay'”or just ‘Jay’ but actually took inspiration from another Argentine legend.
      His father apparently trained him with the intention of copying Diego Maradona.
      He became a fans’ favourite across Thailand for his dribbling skills, with 56 international caps so far, and now plays in Japan.
      South African Messi – Tebogo Tlolane
      The winger was nicknamed Messi from a young age because of his dribbling skills.
      He even managed a two week trial at Barcelona but failed to make the grade – Tlolane is now back in South Africa with Maritzburg United where he has been converted to a left-back.
      Man City keen on Lionel Messi AND Erling Haaland as Pep Guardiola eyes superstar transfer in summer More

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      Inside Ronaldo’s amazing mansions through the years, from humble start in Madeira to new £3million Cheshire home

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      THROUGH the years, as Cristiano Ronaldo has accrued an estimated wealth of £789million, he’s been able to splash out on luxury homes.Life began for the Portuguese legend in a humble Madeira apartment, where he was raised and dreamed of football stardom.
      Cristiano Ronaldo was forced to swap mansions after sheep kept waking him and his familyCredit: Getty
      Ronaldo and his family lived in this £6m property before the move

      And when he achieved the almost impossible, his career path took him from Sporting Lisbon to Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and back to the Red Devils.
      Just weeks after returning to the UK, he was forced to swap mansions for a new £3million pad in Cheshire, after being kept awake by sheep and security issues prompting a change.
      Of course, on the superstar wages he’s on, Ronaldo can upgrade his lifestyle at the drop of a hat.
      Here’s where the 36-year-old five-time Ballon d’Or winner has lived and currently resides.
      MADEIRA UPBRINGING
      Ronaldo was born in Funchal and grew up in a modest home.
      He shared a small room with his brothers and sisters, living a life a far-cry away from the one he lives today.
      Back in 2019, Ronaldo reportedly visited his old home to show son Cristiano Jr where he came from.
      “I was so excited for him to see where I grew up,” he told TVI.
      “He went up with me and there were still some of the same people who had lived there at the time.
      “I was moved, if I am honest, because I didn’t expect to see those people, and that touched me a bit.”
      Ronaldo was born to Maria Dolores dos Santos, a cook, and Jose Dinis Aveiro, an ex war vet in FunchalCredit: Collect
      The family lived in a small apartment in MadeiraCredit: Alamy
      Humble Ronaldo used to sweep the streets of his neighbourhood
      Ronaldo continued that Cristiano Jr, who is accustomed to a more lavish lifestyle, was shocked by the size of his dad’s former bedroom.
      “My son turned to me and said: ‘Papa. Did you live here?’ He could not believe it.”
      MANCHESTER
      From 2003-2009, Ronaldo starred for Manchester United in his first spell with the club.
      And like most of his team-mates at the time, he lived in the very exclusive Alderley Edge area.
      The £3million mansion he called home for three of those years has five large bedrooms, his and hers dressing rooms with an en-suite, a huge garden and charming terraces.
      The property also features an indoor swimming pool, steam room, jacuzzi, gym and cinema room.
      When Ronaldo left the Premier League giants, he kept the property for a further nine years before finally listing it.
      Ronaldo lived in Alderley Edge for three yearsCredit: Right Move / Benson Bunch
      The property boasts five large bedroomsCredit: Right Move / Benson Bunch
      The kitchen features all new modern appliancesCredit: Right Move / Benson Bunch
      The dining room is perfect for family gatheringsCredit: Right Move / Benson Bunch
      An indoor swimming pool completes the lavish feel of Ronaldo’s former Manchester homeCredit: Right Move / Benson Bunch
      MADRID
      Following his then-record breaking transfer to Real Madrid for £80million, a more substantial property was needed.
      He chose a stunning £4.8million abode in the expensive La Finca neighbourhood, designed by renowned architect Joaquin Torres.
      The pad has both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, which Ronaldo used to regularly exercise in.
      The home also includes a state-of-the-art gym, equipped with treadmills, a weights section and stretching zone, so Ronaldo could keep in shape at home.
      Outside, the giant plot has a football pitch next to the outside swimming pool and relaxation area with sun loungers and chairs.
      Ronaldo also had the door handles monogrammed with his initials.
      Ronaldo moved from Manchester to Madrid and this stunning £4.8m houseCredit: Instagram @cristiano
      The property featured its own football pitchCredit: Instagram @cristiano
      There is plenty of space for Ronaldo to top up his tan on one of the many terracesCredit: Instagram @cristiano
      The family regularly enjoyed the properties amenitiesCredit: Instagram @cristiano
      As well as an indoor pool, there is an outdoor pool tooCredit: Instagram
      The door handles were monogrammed with Ronaldo’s initialsCredit: Instagram @cristiano
      A state-of-the-art gym helped Ronaldo keep in shapeCredit: Instagram @cristiano
      Ronaldo’s huge driveway was able to house his expensive car collectionCredit: Instagram @cristiano
      TURIN
      Another move, another new home.
      In 2018, Ronaldo moved to Juventus. And he needed a house that was fit for the new king of Turin.
      It featured two adjoining villas found on a private road guarded by security, which leads to an entrance gate.
      The villas themselves have separate entrances, and are surrounded by lush gardens and vegetation.
      Ronaldo fell in love with the home because of its similarities with his Madrid property.
      There’s a state-of-the-art gym that he and former shop assistant Georgina loved to use together. And there’s also a swimming pool, which Ronaldo cooled down in by doing a few laps following a strenuous session lifting weights.
      The property is so high up, ‘it’s as if Turin were at the feet of CR7, a tribute of the city to the long-awaited and newly-arrived champion,’ La Gazzetta dello Sport reported at the time of purchase.
      Ronaldo’s home in Turin features two adjoining villasCredit: Instagram
      Ronaldo relaxes on one of the many terracesCredit: AFP or licensors
      The property boasts amazing views of the city of TurinCredit: Instagram
      Ronaldo has found a place to sunbathe in his current Italian homeCredit: Instagram / @cristiano
      The property boasts plenty of space for the whole Ronaldo familyCredit: Instagram
      Ronaldo relaxes in one of the many lounge areas of the homeCredit: Refer to Caption
      Ronaldo works out in the state-of-the-art gym
      THE HOLIDAY HOME
      In 2019, Ronaldo reportedly spent £1.4million on a holiday home in the Costa del Sol.
      The area the lavish house sits in is called ‘The Superstars Cul-De-Sac’ because of the number of famous residents who live there.
      UFC star Conor McGregor is also believed to own a property nearby.
      It’s got four bedrooms, high-vaulted ceilings and incredible views of the sea.
      There’s a private golf course, the driveway is lit up by LED lights, private gyms, an in-built cinema and infinity pool.
      What’s good for Conor is definitely good enough for Ronaldo.
      A view of Cristiano Ronaldo’s plush villa in MarbellaCredit: OTERO Group
      The villa sits within a luxury development for the super richCredit: OTERO Group
      The footie ace enjoys these magnificent views from the poolCredit: OTERO Group
      A veranda provides much-needed shade for outdoors dining under the Spanish sunCredit: OTERO Group
      The four-bedroom pad is set on the La Resina golf and country club estateCredit: OTERO Group
      The stunning property is part of an exclusive development called ‘The Heights’Credit: OTERO Group
      A raft of ceiling-to-floor windows offer uninterrupted views to the MediterraneanCredit: OTERO Group
      Cristiano has picked this property as one of many holiday retreatsCredit: OTERO Group
      High ceilings and floating staircases give a sense of spaciousnessCredit: OTERO Group
      One of the four bedrooms at Cristiano Ronaldo’s Marbella villaCredit: OTERO Group
      Clean lines, crisp white surfaces and silver grey details continue into the hi-tech kitchenCredit: OTERO Group
      BACK TO MADEIRA
      Home is where the heart is for Ron.
      His seven-storey mansion in Funchal was finally finished last summer – four years after the former Manchester United No7 bought a warehouse and converted it into this luxury abode.
      It is believed Ronaldo splashed around £7million to recover the dream home, with missus Georgina Rodriguez smitten by its incredible sea view, as well as its amenities including TWO Olympic-sized swimming pools, jacuzzi and a football pitch.
      It’s not known how many bedrooms and bathrooms the property boasts, however there are four floors above ground.
      Ronaldo and his family self-isolated in his £7m Madeira home earlier this yearCredit: Instagram @cristiano
      The rooftop boasts a stunning pool
      Ronaldo seen on the rooftop terrace, where the pool isCredit: AFP or licensors
      Georgina Rodriguez shared pictures of the property online while the family were in quarantine in MadeiraCredit: Instagram @georginagio
      The view the property boasts is out of this world
      Georgina Rodriguez was said to have fallen in love with the view the moment she saw the buildingCredit: Instagram @cristiano
      The property was recently burgled by opportunistic thievesCredit: Instagram @cristiano
      The Ronaldo family take advantage of the jacuzziCredit: Instagram @Cristiano

      Ron uses the property as another holiday home, when he visits his family in Funchal and spent time in the summer there while in quarantine.
      Unfortunately though, the home was burgled by opportunistic thieves who reportedly found the garage door was unlocked and broke in.
      A signed Juventus shirt was believed to be taken, as well as a number of small possessions. More

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      Chelsea ace Kante is sport’s most likeable star, from shopping at Asda to driving a Mini and too shy to hold World Cup

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      CHELSEA star N’Golo Kante is impossible not to like.The humble 30-year-old, a World Cup winner nonetheless, has proven his credentials once again as one of football’s most modest guys.
      The 30-year-old, who has won almost all there is to win for both club and country, was snapped by a fan also doing his supermarket shopping.
      Chelsea star Kante poses with fellow shopper Sarfaz in ASDACredit: Twitter / @Sarfraz_A10
      Midfielder Kante was spotted by one fan doing his weekly shop at budget supermarket Asda.
      Speaking on Twitter, fellow shopper Sarfaz Ahmed said: “Went out for some casual grocery shopping at Asda and look who I bumped in to.
      “@nglkante what a player and what a human being! Very kindly took a picture with me and was so polite.
      “Listened patiently to what I had to say, so humble for a player of such class!”
      It’s not the first time the ex-Leicester City star has proven to be the nicest man in the beautiful game.
      HE’S NO LITTER BUG
      Before Kante was rich and famous, earning a reported £290,000-per-week, he grew up in Paris, where he was born to Malian parents.
      There he would help his father pick up litter from the streets in the hope of finding valuable waste.
      A young Kante would walk miles, which might be why he’s got such a good engine on him as a player.
      When Kante was a youngster growing up in Paris, he used to pick up litter with his fatherCredit: JS Suresnes
      CAN I RUN TO TRAINING?
      It was the Foxes who brought Kante to our shores in 2015 from Caen.
      But, astonishingly, unlike his team mates he didn’t want to get a car and wanted to run to training, which wasn’t quite the done thing.
      As Jamie Vardy recalled: “One day he said to us that he was seriously considering running to the training centre each day, which came from the fact that he would always add a little running session for himself.
      “In the moment, we were all a bit taken aback and convinced him not to.”
      Jamie Vardy recalled how Kante once revealed he wanted to run to trainingCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      FINE, I’LL GET A CAR
      In the end, Kante did get himself a motor. But it wasn’t a fancy Lamborghini or Mercedes.
      No, N’Golo went for a £20,000 Mini Cooper, which is reportedly second-hand.
      Incredibly, he still drives a Mini Cooper, even after getting involved in a crash with a lorry in 2018.
      Kante seen driving his beloved Mini CooperCredit: iCelebTV
      STAY WITH ME
      Acts of generosity aren’t uncommon in Kante’s world.
      When former Leicester defender Cedric Kipre struggled to find a home to live, Kante let him crash at his…. with his brother.
      “I lived at N’Golo’s house for a month when I was at Leicester,” Kipre told Goal.
      “I had a problem with my apartment and he hosted my brother and me. Not everyone would have done it, and it was really nice of him.
      “Today, I’m proud to have met someone like him. There is nobody more humble than N’Golo.”
      Former Wigan star Cedric Kipre and his brother stayed with N’Golo Kante for a monthCredit: Getty
      Kind Kante once let a former team mate stay at his home with his brother while he found a place to liveCredit: PA
      NO TO OFFSHORE TAX COMPANY
      Back in 2018, Kante was rewarded with a new five-year contract worth £290,000-per-week.
      It was reported that Chelsea advised him to set up an offshore tax company, but he wasn’t having any of it.
      Kante insisted that he wanted to pay full tax, unlike many of his peers.
      After hearing the story, French pal Blaise Matuidi said: “I didn’t really follow this story, but I’m not surprised because it is N’Golo.
      “He’s perfect, he doesn’t cheat. Just a bit when he plays cards.”
      Kante earns £290,000-per-week at Chelsea, but refused to be paid in an offshore account to avoid taxCredit: Getty
      APOLOGISING TO AN ARSENAL FAN
      Kante even has time for his rival’s fans.
      A day after the Blues beat London rivals Arsenal 3-2 in 2018, he bumped into a Gooner, who wanted a photo with the footballer.
      Sharky shared his story on Twitter. “Just met this man. Told him I was an arsenal fan and I was upset about the game this weekend but he smiled at me and said “sorry”. What a guy.”
      Just met this man. Told him I was an arsenal fan and I was upset about the game this weekend but he smiled at me and said “sorry”. What a guy 😭 pic.twitter.com/L8sukTnc7L— sharky (@ohnosharky) August 19, 2018

      DOESN’T FORGET HIS OWN FANS
      That said, it’s his own fans that he values more.
      In fact, Kante once turned up at the wedding of a Chelsea fan’s daughter, after turning down the invite originally.
      “We became friends when I was introduced to him by a friend and he came to my restaurant Chak89,” Frank Khalid explained.
      “I invited him and originally he couldn’t attend because of his commitment to the French national team, but because of his injury he messaged me saying he was coming.
      “My family and myself are very close to N’Golo and he was one of the first people to visit me when I had my triple bypass surgery operation in April 2018.
      “He stayed till the end and was so nice to everyone and signed autographs and took selfies with the guests.”
      Kante attended the daughter of Chelsea fan Frank Khalid’s weddingCredit: Frank Khalid
      Fan Frank met the player through is pan-Asian restaurantCredit: Frank Khalid
      Was really great to see @nglkante mingling with my guests at my daughters wedding. He must of been asked for a million selfies and he happily obliged every person that was at the wedding. He was happy to be there. 💙 #CFC pic.twitter.com/LHtUPTFOqz— Frank Khalid (@FrankKhalidUK) September 2, 2019

      EATS CURRY AND WATCHES MOTD
      A lot of football fans do this ritual – a curry before settling down to watch the day’s highlights on Match of the Day.
      And that’s exactly what Kante did when he missed his Eurostar train back to France. He Googled the nearest Mosque to St Pancras and prayed.
      Arsenal fan Badlur Rahman Jalil immediately recognised him and explained how Kante ended up coming back to his to watch Match of the Day.
      “I went to the mosque on Saturday evening to pray and we just prayed together. It’s Islamic teaching to invite guests to your house for dinner, so I asked him,” Badlur revealed.
      “He came with me and my brother because he was on his own and said he was only going to go home anyway.
      “He was on a protein diet so we had a chicken curry. He even had a cup of tea.
      “He beat us all at Fifa and then we watched Match of the Day. It was a really nice evening.”
      Kante enjoyed a curry and Match of the Day at a fan’s home
      TOO SHY TO HOLD THE WORLD CUP
      In 2018, Kante achieved the pinnacle – wining the World Cup for his country.

      But, the notoriously shy star didn’t want to impose on his team mates and was reluctant to hold the trophy.
      Luckily, Steven N’Zonzi saw the issue and told his French team mates to give Kante a go.
      It just makes you admire the man’s humility even more.
      Kante had to be convinced to hold the World Cup by his peers because he was initially to shyCredit: Afp or licensors
      N’Golo Kante eats pizza on his own in Chelsea dressing room while team-mates dance around him after Super Cup win More

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      Barcelona wonderkid Gavi, 17, has been likened to Spain legend Xavi and is the future of Catalan giants’ midfield

      by

      IT’S not all doom and gloom at Barcelona.The Catalans may have fallen from grace after financial issues robbed them of Lionel Messi, and were on the receiving end of a Champions League thumping at home to Bayern Munich in their opening group game.
      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
      But, with one eye on the future, the match gave the struggling LaLiga club an opportunity to bleed a youngster that’s going to be integral to their success moving forward.
      In the 59th minute, 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.
      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 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 only appeared once in LaLiga – playing in the 2-1 win over Getafe replacing Sergi Roberto in the 73rd minute this season.
      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’re easing 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

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      in Soccer

      16 weird football injuries, including De Jong’s swollen hand from bee sting and a broken jaw from eating a carrot

      by

      THEY don’t just get injured on the football pitch.Earlier this week, a Swedish footballer was ruled out of action for weeks after breaking his jaw eating a carrot.
      Rami Kaib will be out of action for a few weeks after his bizarre injury
      Rami Kaib had already taken a knock during a league match for Dutch side Heerenveen.
      But then he sustained the shock blow when getting his veggies in.
      Omrop Fryslan reporter Roelof de Vries told RTV Noord: “Kaib got a big knock on his jaw during a game a while ago.
      “He just continued training, and of course eating.
      “Well, he ate a carrot and that carrot was quite hard.
      “And then, crack – broken jaw. A carrot!”
      Here are some more of football’s most bizarre injuries!
      Frenkie De Jong
      Last year, Frenkie De Jong suffered a bizarre injury that looked painful and threatened to leave him sidelined.
      The Barcelona midfielder showed off a swollen hand in his side’s 3-1 win over Napoli in a Champions League tie.
      According to reports, the ailment was the result of a nasty bee sting that caused the severe reaction.
      Frenkie De Jong shows off horrific bee stingCredit: Instagram / @mikkykiemeney
      De Jong wore a bandage during Barcelona’s Champions League tie with NapoliCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      The swelling can be seen clearly on De Jong’s hand in trainingCredit: FC Barcelona
      CHRIS SMALLING
      Ex-Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was on holiday in Bali, when disaster struck.
      After local reports claimed he was stung by a jellyfish while out surfing – the truth eventually came out, and it wasn’t as exciting.
      He fainted in the hot heat and banged his head, hence the bandages.
      Chris Smalling pictured in hospital in Bali
      DAVE BEASANT
      The Wimbledon FA Cup hero was at Chelsea when he suffered a hilarious foot injury.
      The keeper dropped a bottle of salad cream in his kitchen and tried to control it with his bare foot.
      The bottle ended up breaking and tearing a tendon in his big toe, causing Beasant to miss two months of football. Clearly, he should’ve used his hands.
      Dave Beasant attempted to control a bottle of salad
      RIO FERDINAND
      The former Manchester United and England captain managed to strain his knee while at Leeds.
      Ferdinand rested his leg for too long while playing a game of Pro Evolution Soccer on his PlayStation.
      We’ve all done it.
      Rio Ferdinand suffered a leg injury while playing a video game
      DAVID BATTY
      The ex-Leeds United enforcer had been out injured with a knee problem.
      Then, his two-year-old daughter ran over him while on her tricycle – causing a setback to his ankle.
      The hardman was crocked by a two-year-old, which must’ve taken some explaining to his team-mates.
      David Batty’s daughter ran into him on her tricycle
      BRYAN ROBSON
      Captain Dynamo was given the task of trying to wake mercurial star Paul Gascoigne from his slumber ahead of the 1990 World Cup.
      Robson tried but couldn’t wake the midfielder, instead tipping the bed to push Gascoigne out.
      Robson then dropped the bed onto his toe, breaking it.
      Bryan Robson broke a toe trying to wake up Paul Gascoigne
      ENNER VALENCIA
      The former West Ham forward didn’t impress Sam Allardyce with this injury.
      Somehow, Enner Valencia managed to badly cut his toe after stepping on a broken cup.
      The incident left ‘Big Sam’ striker-less for his next match.
      Enner Valencia seriously cut his toe stepping on a broken cup
      SANTIAGO CANIZARES
      The former Valencia No1 had waited an age to take over in the sticks of the Spanish national team.
      He was given an opportunity in 2002, but just before the World Cup was about to start he dropped a bottle of aftershave on his foot.
      Like Beasant, he severed a tendon and missed the tournament. Butter fingers, perhaps?
      Santiago Canizares missed out on the 2002 World Cup because of a bottle of aftershave
      ALAN WRIGHT
      The former Aston Villa left-back was a cult hero in the Midlands.
      But the 5ft 4in Wright once had a spell out the game after injuring his knee in the strangest way.
      He did it trying to reach the pedals on his Ferrari. True story.
      Former Aston Villa defender Alan Wright got injured driving his Ferrari
      KEVIN KYLE
      While at Sunderland, the former Scotland international was once seen ‘walking a bit like John Wayne’.
      It was all because his eight-month-old son knocked a bowl of boiling water onto his crotch.
      Ouch.
      Kevin Kyle’s son dropped hot water on his crotch
      LEROY LITA
      At Reading, the striker managed to hurt his back by stretching too vigorously.
      But this wasn’t done on the training pitch, no.
      It happened while laying in bed.
      Steve Coppell said at the time: “It’s not an injury that should be ridiculed or made light of.”
      Leroy Lita injured himself by stretching too far in bed
      DARIUS VASSELL
      We’d definitely avoid recreating this one.
      The ex-Aston Villa and England striker tried to get rid of a blood blister on his toe by using an electric drill.
      It didn’t go well.
      Darius Vassell tried to pop a blister with an electric drill
      ADAM CHAPMAN
      Former Oxford midfielder Chapman was heating some milk for his baby, a normally harmless job.
      But as he went to shake it the lid flew off, burning his chest and nipple.
      He had to go to hospital but was passed fit to play the next day.
      Adam Chapman burnt his nipple trying to heat baby milk
      DAVID JAMES
      The former England shot-stopper has two entries.
      He once pulled a muscle in his back while trying to reach for a remote control.
      Another time, James hurt his shoulder while fishing for carp.
      David James should stay away from remote controls… and carp

      CHARLIE GEORGE
      Arsenal legend George didn’t let this injury stop him. The 1971 FA Cup hero once cut off a finger with his lawnmower.
      Thankfully, it wasn’t a leg.
      Charlie George managed to cut off a finger while mowing the lawn
      KIERON DYER
      When at Newcastle the England man damaged his left eye – because he ran into a stationary training pole.
      It wasn’t an eye-for-an-eye in this case, leaving Dyer with a nasty shiner.
      Kieron Dyer ran into a training pole
      Gareth Bale urged to quit Real Madrid as Rio Ferdinand bemoans ‘generational talent’ being wasted on sidelines More

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      Meet the man who could have bought Man Utd for just £10million in 1989, and missed out on a business now worth £3billion

      by

      TODAY, Manchester United is a business worth around £3billion.They are one of the world’s most valuable sports teams, thanks in part to a dominance of the British game in the 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s, as well as clever marketing that means their name is recognised around the globe.
      Businessman Michael Knighton almost bought Man Utd for £10million in 1989Credit: PA
      Knighton’s takeover bid was accepted before he was forced to withdraw his offerCredit: Getty
      But in 1989, a then much-maligned club and starved of success, the Red Devils were on the verge of being taken over for just £10million.
      Property developer Michael Knighton, now 69, had announced the takeover a day before their opening game of the season at Old Trafford against Arsenal.
      Then, on the Saturday, he stood in front of the Stretford End and took in the cheers from some 48,000 fans before the game, appearing in an official team training kit and expertly juggling a football on the pitch.
      His plans were to turn Manchester United into a £150million business. He saw that with TV money on the horizon from an expected Sky TV bid, it could be a lucrative money-spinner.
      However, behind-the-scenes a secret plot schemed by the United hierarchy was desperate to dissuade Knighton from completing a deal.
      Some were said to be miffed by his flamboyant appearance on the sacred Theatre of Dreams turf before the opening Division One game of the 1989-90 season.
      While, private documents outlining a blueprint for his plans appeared at a well-known newspaper mogul’s home and ended up putting pressure on Knighton to withdraw his bid, thus ending his dream.
      BOARD RESENTMENT
      A former school teacher, Knighton made his fortune building a property portfolio in the 1980s.
      And in Manchester United he quite rightly saw their potential as an investment, and understood that ex-chief executive Martin Edwards would entertain an offer.
      Knighton laps up the applause at Old Trafford before the opening game of the 1989-90 seasonCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Property developer Knighton shows off his ball skills in a full United training kit ahead of the Division One opener against ArsenalCredit: Hulton Archive – Getty
      At Derby in the second game of the campaign, Knighton shakes hands with the fans in the standsCredit: Rex
      “The raison d’etre was very simple,” Knighton revealed.
      “There was a lot of resentment against the board. Edwards was incredibly unpopular and desperate to exit. The business was losing money and home gates had fallen to as low as 18-20,000.”
      United’s vast fanbase was key to Knighton’s theory. It’s what encouraged him to walk onto the pitch and orchestrate the crowd like a master politician would his voters.
      “I wanted to show the fans I was a football man first and a businessman second,” he said.
      “I wanted to bridge the gap between the boardroom and the terraces. Yes, it was novel. It was unorthodox. I knew it would attract interest and criticism. But I didn’t care. I needed the fans on my side more than I needed Bobby Charlton or Alex Ferguson, whose job was on the line at that time.
      “I knew there was a massive captive market. If you are going to exploit that market, not in a pejorative sense, to sell them everything in order to generate the profits to buy any player in the world, you need them on your side.
      “Look at what is happening now with the current owners and how the sponsors are being lobbied and some fans are not buying memorabilia and shirts.
      “Of course I loved it. Who wouldn’t? Despite how it all turned out, I don’t regret going on that pitch and if I had £5bn to buy Manchester United today, I would do exactly the same again. I was fulfilling every schoolboy dream in the world.
      “If you look at the pictures of that day and the smiles on the faces of the fans in the stadium, it worked.”
      ‘NOT VERY UNITED’
      Knighton’s entertaining turn at Old Trafford, that would’ve given Simply Red singer, United fan and 80s icon Mick Hucknall a run for his money even at that time, riled the stiff board.
      Former United chief executive Martin Edwards was said to have regretted his decision to sell after Knighton’s extravagant appearanceCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Behind the scenes, the United hierarchy were looking for a way out of the Knighton dealCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      “Ridiculous”, one senior official called it – and it was at this point it was said that Edwards began to regret his decision to sell to the extravagant businessman.
      Knighton’s way wasn’t the United way, despite Edwards revealing in his programme notes before a game against Norwich he wanted to sell the club and Knighton’s money would be put to use in developing the ground.
      “It is not a secret that we have wished to develop the Stretford End for a number of years now,” Edwards wrote.
      “The budget of £7.5m made me realise the commencement of the work is light years away.
      “What Mr Knighton’s offer has brought us is the opportunity to develop the stadium as well as the playing staff and this offer was impossible to refuse.”
      But privately Edwards was looking for a way out.
      SECRET DOSSIER
      With every TV appearance Knighton made talking about buying United, he irked senior figures more.
      Bizarrely, a document known as his ‘blueprint’ to help United become a £150million operation was mysteriously left at the house of newspaper owner Eddy Shah, who was a pal of the United hierarchy.
      Shah immediately got in touch and senior board members rushed to his Macclesfield home.
      A secret dossier outlining Knighton’s plans fell into the hands of newspaper mogul Eddy ShahCredit: Getty
      Knighton with United legend Sir Alex FergusonCredit: Getty
      Even United legend Bobby Charlton arrived at the scene, and was said to have had a calming influence on Shah’s aggressive dogs purely by his presence.
      The dossier was supposed to be private. The fact it had got out put Knighton under pressure to withdraw his bid.
      Knighton was offered a place on the board, if he opted out of a deal. He accepted.
      For the next three years, he was a quiet influence in the boardroom, until 1992 when he bought Carlisle, before finally walking away from football 10 years later.
      After that period, United went on to dominate the domestic game and adding European trophies to their trophy cabinet.
      “It is extraordinary how Martin Edwards has claimed credit for what happened in the following decade after my involvement. Unbelievable,” Knighton said..
      “I kept my mouth shut and my head down because my reputation had been hammered and it is virtually impossible to change a public image.
      After three years on the board at Old Trafford, Knighton left to become Carlisle chairmanCredit: Rex
      Now 69, Knighton isn’t involved in football anymoreCredit: The Sun

      “But Martin and the other people on the board decided to hide behind the fiasco Michael Knighton caused and claim the credit themselves.
      “If they could really see what was going to happen, why did they agree to sell the club for £10m?”
      Now, we’ll never know.
      Cristiano Ronaldo admits he was really nervous about second Man Utd debut More