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      Kyle Walker ‘stunned’ when wife Annie Kilner served him divorce papers as England ace’s wife ‘flexes her muscles’

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      KYLE Walker was “stunned” when his wife Annie Kilner slapped him with divorce papers, claimed a source.The England ace was blindsided by the move, and the pair are now no longer on speaking terms as the footballer’s wife “flexes her muscles”.Kyle Walker was ‘stunned’ when his wife Annie Kilner slapped him with divorce papers, claimed a sourceCredit: GettyAnnie is now preparing to fight for half of his £27million fortuneCredit: instagram/annievkilnerAnnie, 31, delivered the bombshell news to the Man City defender after instructing lawyers to begin legal proceedings to end their marriage.A source said: “Kyle was stunned when he got the papers.”He’s spoken to Annie about them and they are discussing the next steps.”This doesn’t necessarily mean they will divorce.”This is as much Annie flexing her muscles as it is anything else.”She wants Kyle to know she’s not messing about. But if this is a bluff, it may well back-fire.”Annie is now preparing to fight for half of his £27million fortune and sources say they are no longer on speaking terms. It is understood the Manchester City defender, 34, is also consulting lawyers.Most read in FootballWe understand the papers were served weeks ago as tensions rose following his love child scandal with ex-mistress Lauryn Goodman.It comes after the fall out from Lauryn’s bombshell message to Annie on Boxing Day revealing Kyle fathered her second child.Kyle Walker’s furious wife Annie ‘will only give their troubled marriage another go if he pays her HALF his fortune’Lauryn, 34, said the multi-millionaire footballer, 33, told Annie, who was pregnant with Rezon at the time, swiftly kicked the £150,000-a-week defender out of their family home.She had previously welcomed him back after it was exposed he was dad to Lauryn’s son Kario.In an exclusive interview with The Sun soon after his second love child was revealed, Kyle publicly apologised to his estranged wife.He spoke of his desire to save the marriage and described Annie as his “soulmate”.Kyle and Annie’s relationship history Early years – Kyle and Annie first meet in Sheffield when she was 15 and he was 17Euro 2016 – Walker caught messaging Playboy model Carla HoweApril 2019 – Annie dumps Kyle after his alleged romps with reality TV star Laura BrownApril 2020 – Kyle allegedly hosts sex party with two escorts during covid-19 lockdownFebruary 2020 – Lauryn Goodman gives birth to Kairo, her son with WalkerNovember 2021 – Walker and Kilner marry in secretMarch 2023 – Lauryn announces her second pregnancySpring 2023 – Kyle allegedly flashes and kisses another woman in a Vodka Revolution bar in CheshireAugust 2023 – Lauryn gives birth to a daughterJanuary 2024 – Annie announces split from Kyle after two years of marriage. It emerges Kyle is the dad of Lauryn’s second child. Kyle begs for forgiveness in exclusive Sun interview. Lauryn brands him a ‘pathological narcissist’October 2024 – Annie files for divorceShe was later at the Etihad Stadium to support him as City won the title for a record fourth time in a row.And she attended all but one of England’s matches at the Euros in Germany.But Lauryn also travelled to one of them with their son, Kairo, four.Lauryn has also claimed her ex lover Kyle wanted to bed her on a date in a London hotel room — days before he said publicly he regretted their “mistake” of a relationship.The pair were embroiled in a bitter court battle in July, which saw the Celebrities Go Dating star slammed by a judge.It was even revealed the ex-mistress had been using the footballer as an “open-ended cheque book” after giving birth to Kairo.Bombshell documents showed how she demanded eye-watering costs, which included £33,000 for air conditioning at her seven-bedroom mansion in Hove, Sussex, a £22,000 furnishing fund, £70,000 for a Mercedes GLE, to be replaced every three years, and a £30,000 car allowance for a nanny.In August it appeared Annie and Kyle were trying to make their relationship work. The family went on holiday to Turkey and then to their seafront chalet in trendy Abersoch, North Wales, where they celebrated Annie’s 31st birthday.The family were all smiles when spotted at the beach with their new baby.Sources claimed at the time Kyle believed his scorned wife would take him back after their holiday.But, upon their return, the Man City ace, was holed up in an apartment after being booted out of his £3million Cheshire mansion.Kyle moved into the property, owned by the Premier League Champions after Annie blocked his return home.Then, just last month, the couple made headlines again after it was reported Annie demanded £15million cash to save their marriage.The mum-of-four was understood to have obtained preliminary legal advice ahead of any split that would see her net half of Manchester City defender Kyle’s fortune.READ MORE SUN STORIESTensions were said to have risen again after Annie’s sister Sian gave birth to a son after a fling with a married man.It mirrors Kyle’s torrid situation with influencer Lauryn, who had two children with him while he was with Annie.Kyle fathered two love children with influencer LaurynCredit: AlamyAnnie and Kyle share four sons together, and were childhood sweetheartsCredit: AFP or LicensorsLauryn and Kyle were embroiled in a bitter court battle in July earlier this yearCredit: Splash More

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      Watch Kobbie Mainoo leave three young Man Utd fans stunned with gift in wholesome hidden camera video

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      KOBBIE MAINOO continues to make memories for Man Utd fans – both on and off the pitch.The 19-year-old England midfielder stunned a trio of sticker-mad youngsters in a recent heartwarming video. Kobbie Mainoo has made three young fans’ dayCredit: ReutersThe Man Utd midfielder presented the fans with a special Topps Match Attax sticker setCredit: YouTube @Match AttaxThe young Man Utd fans were stunned to see their hero in the fleshCredit: YouTube @Match AttaxMainoo has established himself as a firm fan favourite since breaking into the first team at Old Trafford.The teenager has gone from obscurity to full England international in the space of just 18 months. Mainoo teamed up with sticker company Topps Match Attax this week to give three young fans memories to last a lifetime. The youngsters were told to head to a newsagents in Manchester after winning a sticker competition. READ MORE ON MAN UTDSpirits were high among the winners as they went to collect their 100-pack Match Attax gift box.But little did they know the sticker sets would be presented by Mainoo himself. In a heartwarming clip, the kids are seen gasping with shock as Mainoo appears behind the counter.He signed a special card for the three young fans, sending them home with a prized collectable. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMainoo told Topps: “Meeting these young fans was an unbelievable moment, seeing their faces light up as we surprised them was really special. “Growing up, I loved collecting Match Attax cards and trading with my friends at school, so being part of this alongside Billy was something really special. Behind-the-scenes Man Utd documentary to show Kobbie Mainoo going back to SCHOOL as England star reveals key to success”Seeing their raw passion for football and the excitement these cards bring reminds me of why I love the game.”Ian Foster, the company’s Marketing and Digital Content Director, added: “This content encapsulates what Match Attax is all about – bringing fans closer to their football heroes. “Kobbie’s surprise appearance created an unforgettable memory for these superfans and we were delighted to bring it to life.”With innovative new inserts for the 2024/25 season, including some incredible ultra-rare cards to chase in special packs, Topps is looking forward to delivering more exciting moments like this to enhance the experience of our collectors.”Mainoo is currently battling a knock picked up against Aston Villa in United’s last Premier League game.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt saw the 19-year-old withdraw from the England squad to face Greece and Finland. United boss Erik ten Hag is expected to give an update on Mainoo’s injury on Thursday ahead of Saturday’s game with Brentford. More

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      Zinedine Zidane ‘in constant contact with Man Utd chief’ as Sir Jim Ratcliffe continues to consider Erik ten Hag future

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      ZINEDINE ZIDANE has been in constant talks with one of Manchester United’s trusted chiefs.Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos team continue to weigh up what to do with Erik ten Hag’s future after holding crunch talks during the international break.Zinedine Zidane has been touted as a possible replacement for Erik ten HagCredit: SplashTen Hag has retained his role despite the pressure ramping upCredit: GettyIneos Sport CEO Jean-Claude Blanc has been in constant talks with fellow Frenchman ZidaneIneos’ chief executive officer of sport Jean-Claude Blanc has kept an open line of dialogue open with Zidane, according to The Independent.Ratcliffe and Frenchman Blanc have long been admirers of the former Real Madrid manager, who is yet to decide if he wants to return to management.Zidane’s three consecutive Champions League trophies is what Ineos is aspiring to bring to Old Trafford.Pressure is starting to mount on Ten Hag, with United 14th and on a -3 goal difference in their worst ever start in the Prem after seven games.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSFor now it looks like United will stick by Ten Hag, who signed a one-year contract extension over the summer.Ratcliffe, Blanc and all other major decision makers held a seven-hour meeting in London last Tuesday but no details have emerged.Ten Hag survived a June review and was handed £205m during the summer window, to bring his total spending to more than £600m.With Thomas Tuchel now out of the running for the Man Utd job, Ratcliffe must adjust his shortlist should Ten Hag be sacked.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSZidane’s managerial careerIn four years at Real Madrid:2x LaLiga2x Supercopa de Espana3x Champions League2x Super Cup2x Club World Cup Tuchel was announced as England’s new boss and permanent successor to Gareth Southgate today.Zidane, 52, is one of the few men with winning pedigree who is currently out of a job.Thomas Tuchel gives his first message to fans as England manager But it was reported last month, that Zidane would reject the role, mostly on the basis of not being fully comfortable speaking English.He told L’Equipe: “Would I want to go to Manchester? I understand English, but I’m not completely fluent in it.”I know that there are coaches who go to clubs without speaking the language, but I work in a different way. “Many elements come into play in order to win, it is a global context. I know what I need to win.”But the Red Devils intend to keep that connection with Zidane open should there be a changes in both situations.He took charge of Real Madrid on two occasions and won two LaLigas and three Champions League titles.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe has not managed since leaving Los Blancos for a second time in 2021.Graham Potter, Kieran McKenna, Simone Inzaghi, Ruben Amorim and Southgate also remain in contention to become the next United boss. More

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      World Cup 2026 will be battle of ex-Premier League stars with NINETEEN set to be managing countries – can you name them?

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      NINETEEN former Premier League stars could end up battling at the World Cup in 2026.The USA, Canada and Mexico will host the next edition of Fifa’s supreme tournament.New England boss Thomas Tuchel could be one of 19 ex-Premier League aces manager at the World CupCredit: APAnd there will be plenty of aces on display once qualification is sorted.Argentina are the current holders after victory in Qatar nearly two year ago.But Euro winners Spain will certainly fancy their chances.While the likes of France, Germany and Portugal are also likely to be challengers.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLEngland could even make a splash after securing Thomas Tuchel as their new manager.Of course, everything hinges on whether these nations make it to the finals.Other smaller countries are also ready to compete for a place in North America.And should realistic nations be in the group draw, there could be as many as nineteen former Premier League stars taking charge of World Cup teams.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFirst and foremost is USA boss Mauricio Pochettino, whose side are already guaranteed to be there.He took charge this month after leaving Chelsea, and is best remembered in the Prem for his time at Tottenham.Five things you may not know about Thomas Tuchel from younger Brazilian girlfriend to former modelling careerInside FA’s thrilling chase for TuchelTHE FA’s path to securing Thomas Tuchel’s signature was not a straightforward one.They tried to lure Pep Guardiola from Manchester City over the summer.They even made contact with Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti after deciding to target trophy-laden foreign gaffers.The FA’s determination to go international was summed up by their decision NOT to interview Newcastle boss Eddie Howe.Initial talks with Tuchel saw him express a slight interest in replacing Gareth Southgate.But he was waiting to see what would happen at Manchester United, with Erik ten Hag’s future under the spotlight.Man Utd owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe eventually decided to stick with Ten Hag – and that opened the door to the FA getting their man.Read the full story on England’s thrilling pursuit of Thomas Tuchel.England also have an ex-top flight ace at the helm, with Tuchel another former Chelsea manager.And the list of former Prem aces continues with France’s Didier Deschamps, who played for the Blues towards the end of his career.Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman once took charge of Southampton and Everton.While Portugal’s Roberto Martinez enjoyed spells with the Toffees and Wigan.Moving on, Scotland’s Steve Clarke had six months at West Brom.And Sweden’s Jon Dahl Tomasson played briefly for Newcastle.Elsewhere, Ukraine’s Sergei Rebrov turned out for both Tottenham and West Ham.Wales’ Craig Bellamy made a splash with a ton of clubs including Liverpool and Man City.Forgotten England stars could benefit from Tuchel appointmentWITH Thomas Tuchel announced as the next England manager, a few forgotten stars might be hopeful of a return to the international set up.The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager usually uses a 3-4-3 formation.That could provide an opening for Mason Mount, who’s not been involved in the England set-up since the World Cup in 2022.The now Manchester United star enjoyed his most successful spell under Tuchel while the pair were at Stamford Bridge.Tuchel could also offer lifelines to other previously capped players such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Eric Dier.RLC has excelled since his move to AC Milan and with England struggling to find a partner for Rice, he could be the surprise answer.Meanwhile, Dier played for Tuchel at Bayern Munich as part of a back-three last season.The defender did enough to convince the club to make his loan move permanent after he had fallen out of favour at Tottenham.Click here to see the full England XI who could play under Tuchel.While Austria’s Ralf Rangnick took charge of Manchester United on an interim basis.Norway’s Stale Solbakken had a short playing career with Wimbledon in the late 90s.And Turkey’s Vincenzo Montella spent time on loan at Fulham.Outside of the European nations, ex-Man City title winner Roberto Mancini will be hoping to qualify with Saudi Arabia.In Africa, former Reading man Emerse Fae leads Ivory Coast.While Senegal’s Aliou Cisse played for both Birmingham and Portsmouth.In North America, Jesse March is looking to lead Canada to the World Cup after his time at Leeds.While former Newcastle and England boss Steve McClaren is now in charge of Jamaica.READ MORE SUN STORIESFinally, South American fans have ex-Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa in charge of Uruguay.While Argentina World Cup winner Lionel Scaloni was once on loan at West Ham. More

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      Mbappe ‘rape accuser’ got hospital treatment after ‘attack in star’s hotel’ as Swedish media ‘100% sure’ he’s a suspect’

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      THE woman accusing Kylian Mbappe of rape reported the Real Madrid star after she got medical help at a Swedish hospital.The woman visited a hospital ward for rape victims in the city following the alleged attack, local media report.mbappeKylian Mbappe has been accused of raping a woman in a Swedish hotel room last weekCredit: AFPThe Frenchman, far left, was in Sweden for a two-day trip with his entourageCredit: RexMbappe was seen leaving the Bank Hotel on Friday before the complaint was filedCredit: RexMbappe, 25, is yet to be officially named as a suspect despite Swedish media being “100 per cent sure” he is the focus of the investigations.The France captain has been accused of sexually assaulting a woman in a Swedish hotel room last week by the country’s media.He has slammed the serious claims against him as “fake news”.Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet first reported that the French forward is being looked at by cops over allegations of sexual abuse last Thursday.read more in MbappeA complaint was reportedly sent to police in Stockholm on Saturday after the alleged victim sought medical attention.The woman visited a hospital ward for rape victims in the city, reports TV4.It is unclear what injuries she may have suffered. Cops then launched an investigation and have been conducting searches of the Bank Hotel where the alleged rape took place.Most read in FootballThey seized several items of clothing from a room including a pair of underwear, black trousers and a black top to analyse, say Expressen.Officials are yet to confirm the clothes being seized or who they belong to.Mbappe hasn’t been formally named in the case as of today and is yet to be spoken to by officialsThe footballing superstar is said to have no idea what he is being accused of, according to his lawyer.Marie-Alix Canu-Bernard told TF1 news that Mbappe is “calm” in wake of the allegations due to believing he is completely innocent.The World Cup winner is said to have been on a two-day trip to Sweden with his entourage at the time of the claims.On the night of the allegations he dined at the Chez Jolie restaurant before going to the V nightclub in Stockholm with pals.Before they headed back to the Bank Hotel.His lawyer said he was around a group of his closest friends and security at all times during the trip.She said: “He is never alone. He is never exposed to a situation where he would be taking a risk.”And so, this totally excludes the fact that there could have been reprehensible actions on his part.”Mbappe responded to the allegations on X, slamming the reports as ‘fake news’Credit: XCops have reportedly seized clothes from the Bank Hotel where the alleged rape is said to have taken placeCredit: EPAMbappe left Sweden Friday on a private jet before the complaint had been filed.The entourage with the football ace has since shot back at the allegations, telling AFP: “A new slanderous rumour is starting to spread across the web from the Swedish media Aftonbladet.”These accusations are completely false and irresponsible, and their propagation is unacceptable.”In order to put an end to this methodical destruction all necessary legal actions will be taken to re-establish the truth and pursue any person or media involved in the moral harassment and defamatory treatment that Kylian Mbappe is suffering repeatedly.”The former Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco star also scolded the Swedish news outlets for allegedly spreading “fake news”.He put out a statement on X saying: “FAKE NEWS !!!! It’s becoming so predictable, just before the hearing as if by chance.”Mbappe also included a winking emoji at the end of the message.The tweet seemingly referred to a hearing Mbappe is set to face over unpaid wages he is disputably owed by PSG.Mbappe claims he deserves 55million Euros (£45million) by his former club in unpaid wages from his seven-year stint at the club.He is never alone. He is never exposed to a situation where he would be taking a riskMarie-Alix Canu-BernardMbappe’s lawyerThe footballer was also due to get a signing bonus in February but PSG have refused to pay up and follow the ruling by France’s football governing body LFP, according to the claims.A source close to PSG hit back at Mbappe by telling French newspaper L’Equipe they would “ignore” his claims the two incidents may be linked.The source said: “Honestly, it’s a shame. PSG is responsible for everything with him.”PSG are now making up stories in Sweden. We will ignore it and keep our class.”Mbappe’s club side Real Madrid have also reportedly edited their star man out of a charity promotion just a day after the allegations were made.Two almost identical images posted to Instagram appear to show the French striker in and out of a photo for the club’s Artist Pack promotion.The first image was posted by English midfielder Jude Bellingham and showed him, Roberto Carlos and Mbappe with a group of artists.But Bellingham swiftly deleted the group snap.Real Madrid then posted an almost identical image to its main Instagram account on Tuesday – but now with Mbappe missing.France’s manager Didier Deschamps, 56, was even made to respond to the allegations against his captain.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe warned people to avoid spreading “anything and everything” in regards to Mbappe.He told reporters after France’s clash with Belgium on Monday night that the reports have led to a “negative atmosphere” in the dressing room.Real Madrid have seemingly edited Mbappe out of a picture on Instagram with a gap left behind the sofa where the star originally was standingCredit: InstagramThe footballing superstar is said to have no idea what he is being accused of, according to his lawyerCredit: Getty More

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      Why Man Utd are set for more disappointment this weekend against Brentford as stats lay bare awful record

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      MANCHESTER UNITED could add to their dismal record after the international break when they host Brentford on Saturday.Erik ten Hag is under huge pressure at Old Trafford following The Red Devils’ worst ever start to a Premier League campaign.Erik ten Hag is under huge pressure after a dreadful start to the seasonCredit: GettyBrentford boss Thomas Frank is eyeing a victory at Old Trafford this weekendCredit: RexEight points from seven games sees them languishing in 14th place in the table.They are also without a win in two Europa League matches.And the stats do not suggest things will begin to turn around this weekend.According to sports betting site BetVictor, Man Utd have won just THREE of their last 10 games after the October international break stretching back to 2014.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThat is the worst record of the so-called “Big Six” – and even below the likes of Newcastle and Aston Villa.It is yet more damning news for Ten Hag – who faces an injury crisis ahead of the Brentford game.Due to a host of defenders being unavailable, Jonny Evans could be set to start at left-back.Noussair Mazrouai, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro are all sidelined.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSelected clubs’ records after the October international break since 2014Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo also face fitness problems.And new signing Manuel Ugarte has worried Man Utd fans by coming off during Uruguay’s goalless draw with Ecuador on Tuesday.A day in the life of workaholic Ten Hag revealed by ex-Man Utd coach who jokes ‘his wife is on verge of divorcing him’Brentford have won just one of their last 11 meetings with Man Utd.That came in Ten Hag’s first away game in the Premier League as his side were thrashed 4-0 in West London. More

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      Tuchel slammed over what he wears on touchline as former Premier League star says England manager should be ‘smart’

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      DANNY Mills has challenged Thomas Tuchel to upgrade his wardrobe after landing the England job. The FA officially unveiled the 51-year-old as Three Lions manager on Wednesday morning. Thomas Tuchel’s casual threads have been called out by ex-Three Lions star Danny MillsCredit: GettyThe German is known for wearing tracksuits and caps on the touchlineCredit: PAMills questioned if Tuchel should smarten up for his new £5m roleCredit: GettyTuchel takes over from Gareth Southgate who departed following Euro 2024. Former England full-back Mills spoke to Sky Sports News after the German’s new position was confirmed.But he had a bizarre take on the matter, calling out Tuchel for his casual touchline threads. Mills said: “Often we see him in a hoodie and a cap on the sidelines. READ MORE ON ENGLAND”Will that be his managerial stance as an England manager?”That’s not really something that we’re used to. It’s really always a suit and looking very, very smart.”Tuchel will officially take over on January 1, with interim boss Lee Carsley in charge of the team for November’s international camp.The German is England’s first foreign coach since Fabio Capello, who left the role in 2012. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMills continued: “[Tuchel] is an exceptional coach. There are a few surprises. “[But] I don’t understand why he starts in January.Five things you may not know about Thomas Tuchel from younger Brazilian girlfriend to former modelling career“Who is going to be picking the team in November? Will Tuchel be at the games? Will he have any input? “And the FA need to answer why not an Englishman? Why have they gone down a foreign route again?He added: “But Tuchel is a fantastic coach and will do very, very well.”Tuchel has been out of work since leaving Bayern Munich earlier this year. Inside FA’s thrilling chase for TuchelTHE FA’s path to securing Thomas Tuchel’s signature was not a straightforward one.They tried to lure Pep Guardiola from Manchester City over the summer.They even made contact with Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti after deciding to target trophy-laden foreign gaffers.The FA’s determination to go international was summed up by their decision NOT to interview Newcastle boss Eddie Howe.Initial talks with Tuchel saw him express a slight interest in replacing Gareth Southgate.But he was waiting to see what would happen at Manchester United, with Erik ten Hag’s future under the spotlight.Man Utd owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe eventually decided to stick with Ten Hag – and that opened the door to the FA getting their man.Read the full story on England’s thrilling pursuit of Thomas Tuchel.He said in a statement: “I am very proud to have been given the honour of leading the England team. “I have long felt a personal connection to the game in this country, and it has given me some incredible moments already. “To have the chance to represent England is a huge privilege, and the opportunity to work with this special and talented group of players is very exciting.”ANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England jobTuchel put pen to paper on an 18-month, £5million-a-year deal on October 8.But the former Chelsea boss was not the first choice of Mills’ BBC colleague Gary Lineker.The former England striker told the Rest Is Football podcast: “I’d have given the job to Lee Carsley. “I have seen enough to suggest to me the players really trust him.READ MORE SUN STORIES”And he is imaginative enough to produce something that is a joy to watch, is entertaining and front-footed football. “I’d have gone for Lee Carsley [but] it is not my job to pick people like that.” More

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      Who is Anthony Barry? Thomas Tuchel’s assistant coach for England

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      ANTHONY BARRY has been named as Thomas Tuchel’s assistant coach for England – and SunSport can tell you all what we know about him.England revealed that Tuchel will take control of the senior side from January, 1, 2025 despite signing the contract on Tuesday, October 8.Anthony Barry and Thomas Tuchel first worked together for ChelseaCredit: PAThe 2021 FIFA coach of the year stated: “I am very proud to have been given the honour of leading the England team.”I have long felt a personal connection to the game in this country, and it has given me some incredible moments already.And Tuchel will feel right at home as he is set to be reunited with highly-rated assistant coach Anthony Barry.But fans want to know exactly what makes Barry so special.Read more on Thomas TuchelWho is Anthony Barry?Born in Liverpool, Anthony Barry openly admitted that he did not enjoy his footballing playing career as it was blighted by injury.The Englishman dislocated his kneecap at just age 24 while playing for Yeovil.And despite returning to action 17 months later, Barry had lost the passion to play, which then led to him doing his coaching badges.He got his first taste of coaching action with Accrington Stanley’s Under-16 side and then a year later, Barry worked alongside Paul Cook at Wigan.Most read in FootballBarry blossomed at Wigan and it was there where he worked with a young Reece James who spent the 2018/19 season on loan at the club.Fast forward 12 months, the pair were reunited at Chelsea after the Blues legend brought Barry into his backroom team.The English duo studied together on their UEFA Pro License course along with Jody Morris.This is where Barry developed his eye for detail as his dissertation project at the end of the course was on throw-ins – he looked at 17,000 throw-ins and was quickly labelled a set-piece specialist.Barry was still at Chelsea when Tuchel replaced Lampard and the pair maintained a good partnership which is why Tuchel brought Barry with him to Bayern.Furthermore, Barry has a mass amount of international pedigree as he most notably worked with Belgium and Portugal at the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024 respectively.What has been said?”Our relationship is very respectful and friendly,” Barry told club media after Thomas Tuchel’s appointment at Bayern. “I admired Thomas from the first day. We have a lot of parallels – how we work and how we see football.”We try to push each other and to improve. That allows us to work at a very high level because we can be completely honest with each other. We talk very openly, discuss our ideas and always try to find the best solution.”READ MORE SUN STORIESBarry was a specialist set-piece coach at Bayern, having written a dissertation on throw-ins as part of his Pro Licence course. “As a top team, you need to be top at set pieces. It’s an important area for us that we want to work on,” he explained.Tuchel added: “The whole package is right for him: his personality, the love of the game, the love of his job, his passion and his quality. He brings a lot of energy. His work with set-pieces at Chelsea was on a whole new level for me.”ANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England job More