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      Inside stunning 60,000-seater new stadium set to leave former Champions League club in exile for two years

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      EX-CHAMPION LEAGUE side Real Betis will be left in the football wilderness for two years as part of a stunning new stadium build.The one-time Spanish champions are embarking on an ambitious project which will see them move in to a 60,000-seater home.A look at how Real Betis’ new Benito Villamarín stadium might lookThe works will see the preferred stand torn down and rebuiltCredit: RexThe ground is aiming to be completed for the 2027/28 seasonCredit: Real BetisThe work will commence at the end of the season, but will force Betis to leave their Benito Villamarín home for two seasons, with the hope the new ground will be ready for operation from 2027.In the meantime, Betis will move into the Estadio de La Cartuja on the other side of Seville.Betis’ current Benito Villamarín Stadium has a capacity of 60,720, but the new project will modernise it with one stand being torn down – following the others which had changes made for the 1982 World Cup.New details of the plan were shared by club president Ángel Haro during a Ordinary General Shareholders’ Meeting on Tuesday.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHaro revealed it was hoped the new build would create a “a qualitative and quantitative leap in income” that will allow the club “to have a better team”.That being said, Betis do not want to emulate Real Madrid’s new-look Bernabeu.While the new Benito Villamarín will have the capacity to host concerts, Haro admitted this will be limited to two or three a year during the summer months when sport competitions are finished.This will ensure there are no issues with the grass at the ground, with the new stadium set to forgo the ability to have a retractable pitch.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe stadium will also feature an adjacent leisure facility in an adjacent building that will feature “a large hotel, a clinic and a wellness centre”.Improvements will also be directed towards better security and evacuation features.Inside ‘insane’ £1.5bn Bernabeu renovation from hidden tunnels under stadium to setting fire to the old roof The plans have not come without criticism however, with fans taking issue with a controversial plan to increase the number of VIP seats from 1,200 to 3,700, or six per cent of the total capacity in the stadium.However, Haro claimed these VIP seats will “generate around 20 or 25 per cent of the turnover” which will contribute to keeping prices affordable around the rest of the stadium.By comparison, Barcelona’s new Camp Nou will have around 7,000 VIP seats, while the stadium of cross-town rivals, Sevilla, will have Sánchez-Pizjuán be around 10 per cent.Betis have a tumultuous history, having been relegated a number of times, leading to the club’s motto being “¡Viva el Betis manque pierda! (Long live Betis even if they lose!)”.The club last won the Spanish top flight title in 1935, while they last competed in the Champions League in 2006.They have previously outlined the main details of the new project, which will include a new roof, sound and lightning systems and club shop.In a statement on the stadium project released last summer, Betis said: “Real Betis has received the preliminary project for the new Benito Villamarín Stadium, with detailed designs, marking another step in the development of the next home for Betis fans. “This project will enhance fan comfort and significantly increase the club’s revenue…”The new Benito Villamarín Stadium will feature a new exterior, a facade representing the Thirteen Bars of the club’s crest, with light, translucent tones, offering the possibility to project colours and images.”The basic project also includes the installation of a roof, which will house two new video scoreboards, larger than the current ones located in Gol Norte and Gol Sur, equipped with the latest technology. READ MORE SUN STORIES”The roof will also integrate sound and lighting systems to enhance the match day spectacle and fan experience. “Additionally, it will collect rainwater for irrigation, aligning with the club’s sustainability policy.” More

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      I’m Championship star who played with Harry Kane and Steven Gerrard before being sacked for paying fine in PENNIES

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      LAWRENCE VIGOUROUX has spoken for the first time about being sacked by Swindon for paying a £50 fine in PENNIES.The Swansea goalkeeper built such a notorious reputation regarding his attitude that no club on these shores would touch him.Lawrence Vigouroux is a changed man at SwanseaCredit: GettyThe attitude and ‘extras’ of Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane when he was a Tottenham youngster inspired VigourouxCredit: GettyThe keeper is looking forward to a huge derby clash with CardiffCredit: RexBut Vigouroux has since learned the error of his ways and hopes to continue producing top performances to help the Welsh side return to the Premier League.The 31-year-old is relishing playing in Saturday lunchtime’s South Wales derby at Cardiff.The London-born former Chile Under-20 international used to be Harry Kane’s shooting training partner at Tottenham and rubbed shoulders with the likes of Steven Gerrard while a youngster at Liverpool. But    he caused a stink in Swindon when the Anfield giants loaned them the then 21-year-old stopper in 2015.READ MORE SWANSEA NEWSVigouroux explained: “I was late to training after being delayed by a visit to the dentist. “I had bad toothache and felt I shouldn’t have been fined because you cannot train when your teeth are hurting. But they insisted I pay.“Because I felt hard done by, I decided to make it ­difficult for them so I visited the bank and asked for £50 in one pennies.“The woman behind the counter thought I was a shopkeeper who needed change — but she only had £20 in one pennies. So in the end I settled for them plus another £20 of 2ps and a tenner of 5ps.Most read in ChampionshipVigouroux has reunited with ex-Swindon chief Luke Williams at SwanseaCredit: RexThe stopper has been called up for Chile’s senior squadCredit: AlamyJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS“I dropped them off to the fines collector — captain Nathan Thompson, who now plays for Stevenage — who wasn’t happy.“Our manager Mark Cooper told me to leave and never come back.Lincoln’s Ethan Erhahon reveals players STOLE the physio’s car and he was offered a ‘scrap’ with a fan – What the EFL“I felt bad and took the pennies back and paid it in notes.“But when I returned to Liverpool, they weren’t happy.“I had a frosty couple of days training from 8am to 6pm.“Eventually Cooper invited me to Doncaster where Swindon were playing. I swallowed my pride, apologised and he took me back.”Vigouroux concedes it was situations like that and often being late for training that made his name mud across the EFL.And his advice to any youngster is: Be professional every day because nothing happens by luck. You can be in the right place at the right time to get an opportunity but if your attitude is not right you will not maintain it.He said: “The easiest thing is making your debut, staying in the team is the hardest. You see lots of players from top clubs who drop down the leagues and find it hard to come back.”One player he uses as a model pro is ex-Spurs team-mate Kane — now at Bayern Munich. Vigouroux, who initially came through the youth ranks at Brentford, spent two seasons in North London. He said: “Tottenham needed a training keeper for the Under-18s so I went there and they ended up signing me.“The one thing I learned was how important the extras were. After training Harry would be on his own or I’d be with him in goal for an hour doing finishing.Jurgen Klopp wanted to take a look at Vigouroux after becoming Liverpool bossCredit: APVigouroux will always remember Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard congratulating him on winning a new contract at AnfieldCredit: Bradley Ormesher – The Times“It was good for me because I was working with someone who was unbelievable at finishing and seeing how his brain worked with angles and where he was more likely to score from. That helped me and him.“That’s the main reason he is where he is now.“It’s that attitude of it’s never enough and do those extras to hone your skills.”Vigouroux was snapped up by Liverpool after a successful trial, following his Spurs coach and now Anfield academy director Alex Inglethorpe to Merseyside.He said: “It’s a mental city. Everyone is football crazy, they support the team like it’s everything.“Even though I was only playing in the Under-21s, I’d got spotted in the streets and stopped by fans.“I didn’t even know how they knew me — but they did, perhaps from watching the Under-21s on Liverpool TV.”And the keeper will never forget how,  after agreeing a new contract at Anfield, Kop legend Gerrard came over at the training ground to congratulate him.He said: “It’s something that has stuck with me my whole career.“It doesn’t matter how big you are in the game, you should always be there to help and inspire youngsters.”The penny-gate saga was not the only time Vigouroux was recalled to Liverpool from Swindon.When Jurgen Klopp took over from Brendan Rodgers in 2015, the German wanted to take a look at the keeper in training.Vigouroux recalled: “It didn’t matter who you were or where you were, he got everyone in for a week to take a look. He wanted to know what he had.”Swansea was once a Premier League club. We’re working as hard as we can and see where it takes us.Lawrene VigourouxVigouroux went on to sign for Swindon permanently where he spent three years — including playing for current Swans boss Luke Williams — before spending six months in his dad’s home nation Chile playing for Everton de Vina del Mar.He soon missed England but found it difficult to find a club before eventually Leyton Orient gave him a chance.He said: “No one here would take me because of my reputation for attitude and being late for training.“I got offered a contract, which was nowhere near the money I’d been earning before, but it was my last chance.”Vigouroux took it with both hands and spent 3½ years there, winning the League Two title under boss Richie Wellens, who had earlier released him from Swindon.He spent last season as a back-up keeper at Burnley during their doomed Premier League campaign before joining Swansea in the summer.And his form has seen him called up for the last few Chile squads as they bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.Vigouroux is happy to be reunited with Williams and said: “I knew he was a great coach at Swindon but he’s in a different stratosphere now.“He’s a huge key to our success so far. Swansea was once a Premier League club. We’re working as hard as we can and see where it takes us.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Cardiff is going to be a hostile ­atmosphere but we mustn’t let the occasion get to us.”Vigouroux must be dreaming of going to the 2026 World CupCredit: Getty More

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      Five reasons Man City have fallen away as title contenders – and why Pep Guardiola’s side can still win it

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      I’M STILL not willing to write off Manchester City from winning the Premier League title this year.And yet, on Tuesday night, Phil Foden claimed that top four is what they are aiming for this season.Troy Deeney isn’t writing off Pep Guardiola and Man City just yetCredit: GettyPhil Foden declared City were aiming for the top four after the 2-2 draw with BrentfordCredit: PAWhat the f*** are you on about?Where’s the confidence of reigning champions?If City had beaten Brentford, they would have been six points off Arsenal, who are being tipped as Liverpool’s greatest threat.And with 17 games left, there is only one team, one squad and one manager on the planet capable of putting together a near-perfect run worthy of winning a title and that’s Pep Guardiola and City.READ MORE ON MAN CITYWho in their right mind would bet against that when they’ve done it before?But, and there is a big but, we’re also in a situation where it has become a taboo to question the great man that is Pep, which in itself is really scary.He needs to be called out when he is in the wrong and he has got a lot of big decisions wrong this season — including on Tuesday in the 2-2 draw at the Gtech.City were 2-0 up and cruising. Are you telling me taking off Foden and bringing on James McAtee was the best tactical situation to see out that game?Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThat’s not a dig at McAtee but is he going to put his foot on the ball, run it into the corner or kick it into Row Z if needs be?Pep left the far more experienced Jeremy Doku and Jack Grealish on the bench.Pep Guardiola ‘SPLITS from wife after 30 years and three children together’ according to reports in SpainHis decision-making generally has been bizarre – why is Ederson not starting regularly? Isn’t he your No 1? Kevin De Bruyne wasn’t getting a kick and now he is starting most weeks.Why does it feel like there are more disgruntled players in the squad than ever before?Has Pep’s man-management changed with the underachievement so far this season?Why is Kyle Walker still at the club if he wants to leave?Normally, City get transfers done and dusted before you’ve even heard about it. Now, they’re dithering.Man City vs the Premier League: Q&ABy Martin LiptonBOTH Manchester City and the Premier League were claiming a win after their legal scrap over Associated Party Transactions.SunSport sifts the claims to try to explain the latest issues.What was the case about?City were furious that Prem bosses brought in new tougher regulations – by the smallest possible majority under League rules – in February. They were aimed at blocking clubs bypassing financial controls by earning “unfair” amounts via sponsorship from a company with the same owners, or selling players on the cheap to teams under the same ownership umbrella.Why were City so upset?The Etihad club argued that the rules were illegal and had been deliberately aimed at them by rivals and were both flawed and politically driven. They also branded the “two thirds support” rule that has been part of Prem regulations since its inception as a “tyranny of the majority”This was an Arbitration Tribunal – explain that?Under Prem rules, any club has the right to ask for Arbitration if they are unhappy about the regulations or due process. The three retired judges heard evidence in June and their full ruling was distributed to the 20 Prem clubs on Monday afternoon.And what did they say?Depending on who you listen to, they either totally vindicated one side or the other. The actual answer is that there were “wins” for both City and the Prem. But it’s your choice which ones meant more.OK, what were City’s wins?Maybe the most important one in terms of the repercussions. That both the new rules and the previous version – brought  in after Saudi Arabia’s PIF bought Newcastle in 2021 –  were “unlawful” as they exclude shareholder loans to clubs in any APT calculations.  City also won over their claims that the rulebook prevented them from responding to Prem decisions over whether two proposed deals with Abu Dhabi companies represented “Fair Market Value”, access to the “databank” of comparable deals and the time it took for decisions to be reached.That sounds pretty big. So what about the Prem’s side?The key finding as far as the League is concerned is that the Tribunal backed the concept of APT rules as well as the Fair Market Value tests. Additionally, City’s challenges to the actual decisions on the two proposed deals “failed”. Prem bosses insist the “rulebook has been found to comply with competition and public law standards and is an effective and necessary system”.Is that it, then?Of course not. That shareholder loan issue is a big deal, given that it is believed owners have loaned around £1.5bn at low or preferential rates across the Prem. Those loans will almost certainly have to be calculated at commercial rates now, unless the owners convert them into shares. But the League is convinced the main thrust of the rules remains valid.And what will be the impact on the “115 charges” case?Probably nothing. That is an allegation of breaking the rules, while this matter was City questioning whether one small element of the current rulebook was legitimate. But City are using the same legal team, headed by £10,000 per hour Lord Pannick KC. And the stakes on the bigger case are a great deal higher.Why didn’t they go big in the summer with signings? Because of the 130 financial rule breaches they have been charged with? Because the manager’s future was undecided before he signed a two-year deal in November?I get the feeling Pep is overthinking it, almost double bluffing himself and the club are following suit.As a result, City just aren’t as tough to beat or nick points off as they used to be and they no longer feel or look like an efficient machine away from the pitch.Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal were dominant forces and then went off the boil – are we seeing this now with City and Pep?Maybe it is as simple as losing the best player on the planet in Rodri to a long-term injury, but I don’t buy that.City have nailed down Erling Haaland to an incredible long-term dealCredit: GettyBut it’s not just Pep. When you look at City as an organisation this season, it’s been sloppy.Signing up Erling Haaland until 2034 is great business but as a team and as a club, they have fallen asleep at the wheel.And because of that, we have heard more excuses coming from their camp in the last three or four months than the past five years.They have injuries but so does everybody. And look at that squad — world-class talent capable of beating most teams comfortably.There’s a lot of moaning. Maybe some of the players are not used to the fight because they usually win everything with ease.They’re not being accountable. They’re not stepping up.READ MORE SUN STORIESDon’t try and suggest they have an ‘ageing squad’ either. Last season, no one mentioned their ages because they have a terrific squad. This ‘ageing’ stuff is the biggest cop out.Yes, they have tough games coming up – Chelsea, Arsenal, Newcastle, Liverpool, Spurs and Nottingham Forest by March 8 – but they’re brilliant chances to get back on track. More

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      Watch England U21 goalkeeper save TWO penalties after ‘incredible s***housery’ as opponent is left in tears

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      JAMES TRAFFORD saved TWO penalties to deny Sunderland a crucial win in the race for the Premier League. The Burnley goalkeeper twice saved from Wilson Isidor during a chaotic 0-0 draw at Turf Moor. James Trafford was the Burnley hero after saving two penalties against SunderlandCredit: ReutersThe Clarets keeper twice leapt to his right to keep out Wilson IsidorCredit: ReutersTrafford hit the deck prior to the second penalty as a fracas broke out on the fieldCredit: ReutersIsidor was consoled by teammates and in tears after the second missCredit: ReutersTrafford was the hero after keeping out Isidor’s first spot-kick with just five minutes remaining of normal time.The England Under-21 keeper was animated on his line, jumping around and slapping the crossbar as Isidor began his run-up.He dived to his right and was able to successfully palm the penalty away.Scott Parker’s men didn’t learn their lesson though, with Oliver Sonne adjudged to have brought down Dennis Cirkin in the box four minutes into stoppage time.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLA fracas broke out as players from both sides piled in.And Trafford was hailed by Burnley fans for his “incredible s***housery” as he hit the deck in the melee, eventually earning himself a yellow card. Isidor was given a chance to appease his earlier miss by Black Cats boss Regis Le Bris – but was made to wait for almost two minutes before tempers calmed down.The 24-year-old went for the same spot as his first attempt, slamming the ball towards the bottom right corner.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut Trafford guessed correctly again, palming the ball behind for a corner before being mobbed by his teammates.A gutted Isidor was spotted in tears, as one fan wrote on X in response to the madness: “Two poor penalty decisions by the ref, two poor penalties.”Behind the scenes with Burnley goalkeeper James TraffordAnother said: “Why on earth would you let him hit the 2nd after missing the 1st? Baffling decision.”And a third argued: “Embarrassing giving him MoM after the gamesmanship.”While one Newcastle fan laughed: “Sign him up right now hahahaha.”The goalless draw leaves Burnley sitting second in the Championship, level on points with leaders Leeds who now have a game in hand.Trafford’s heroics ensure Burnley stay in the Championship promotion spotsCredit: ReutersSunderland are back in fourth, just two points off the automatic spots.Midfielder Enzo Le Fee made his debut for the Black Cats at Turf Moor after a high-profile loan switch from Roma.Le Fee joined the Serie A club last summer in a £19.4million deal from French club Rennes.READ MORE SUN STORIESLe Bris said: “It’s a good statement for the club because it shows that we are attractive.”The environment is positive to grow, to live big emotions and to improve.” More

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      Mikel Arteta tells Bukayo Saka to jet off on HOLIDAY to help his recovery from hamstring surgery

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      BUKAYO SAKA is spending his rehab from hamstring surgery like any elite professional would.Aside from recovering at home, the Arsenal star has remained a regular face at their London Colney training base after going under the knife just before Christmas Day – even supporting his teammates up close at home games.Bukayo Saka underwent hamstring surgery after a trip to Crystal Palace last monthCredit: GettySaka has been making the effort to support the team during his rehab phaseCredit: GettyHobbling on crutches, Saka was spotted pitch side at the Emirates watching his pals warm up ahead of the North London Derby in mid-week – and is expected to do the same ahead of today’s [SAT] clash with Aston Villa.Arteta admires the commitment, but the Gunners boss has urged Saka to instead use this time to jet off on HOLIDAY, telling the England winger: You need it!After facing Villa, Arsenal have another home game against Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League on Wednesday before trips to Wolves and then Girona between January 25 and 29 – a four-day period that could be perfect for Saka to get some much-needed rest in the sunshine.Asked if Saka should take a holiday somewhere nice, Arteta said: “Yeah, he needs to. He is obligated to go! With his girlfriend or his family, he can choose. Or on his own.read more arsenal”But he needs to get away for a few days and refresh. He can still do a lot of things with his rehab because it is the perfect stage. I think it will make him really better.“He has been [around the squad] every single day. There is a moment, especially when we are going to be away for a few days, that he needs to do that. That is very important for him as well.“We need to look after our players.”Ever-present Saka started in all but three of Arsenal’s Prem games last season, as well as starting for England in every game of their Euros journey to the final in Germany last summer.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThis term, he has so far started 16 Prem games, as well as five of their six Champions League league phase matches.On what Saka should send his manager as a thank you for granting some time off, Arteta laughed: “A nice picture – or a present!”What Arteta really wants is one of his best players fit and firing sooner rather than later.Saka is targeting an early March return – perhaps in time for Prem outings against Manchester United on March 8 and Chelsea on March 15.Up until he hobbled off during a 5-1 win at Crystal Palace on December 21, Saka had been instrumental in Arsenal’s attack this term with five goals and 10 assists in the league.Since then, the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, Ethan Nwaneri and Raheem Sterling have tried to replicate Saka on the right wing with little success.Jesus could now be crocked for the rest of 2025 with a ruptured ACL suffered in the FA Cup third round defeat to Man United, Nwaneri is recovering from a hamstring strain, Sterling looks shot of confidence or form while Martinelli and Trossard are naturally left-sided players.Why Arsenal were MYLES better than SpursAnd since Saka’s injury, Arsenal have dropped two points to Brighton in the Prem, been knocked out of the FA Cup and face an uphill task to reach the Carabao Cup final after a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in their semi-final first leg.It is why Arteta is hoping to land a new forward during this January window, but there will still be huge pressure on the shoulders of Saka to make an instant impact on his long-awaited return.Whether Arsenal will still be in the title race by then is another matter, despite recently closing the gap on Liverpool to four points, with Arne Slot’s Red still having a game in hand.On Saka’s time away from the team, Arteta continued: “The main part is the psychological part of how they feel emotionally. Because being a long time without doing what you love is not easy.“Your routine changes completely. You are much more isolated because you’re not going to work. That takes a little while to handle and to settle.READ MORE SUN STORIES“So, it’s a moment that if he can have a break as well and enjoy the parts of his life, great.“To be closer to the family, great. To learn about the game, certain aspects that he can still improve and develop.” More

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      From quirky diets and raps to secret baby and THAT obsession with Hannah Montana – inside weird world of Erling Haaland

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      A GOAL machine with the flowing blond locks of his Viking heritage, Erling Haaland likes to tell rivals to “stay humble”.Now — after landing a deal that dwarfs anything seen before in British football — he may need to heed the advice himself.Erling Haaland and girlfriend Isabel Haugseng Johansen at the 2023 Ballon d’Or awards ceremony in ParisCredit: GettyErling pictured relaxing on a sunshine breakCredit: InstagramToddler Erling was destined to be a footballerCredit: InstagramErling pictured yesterday after signing until 2034Credit: instagram/erlingThat’s because the attention that comes with such a huge contract will propel Haaland, 24, and his 21-year-old partner Isabel Haugseng Johansen into fame’s premier league.A source close to the couple said: “They are going to be a bigger than the Beckhams. They will be the wealthiest, most famous couple in the world of football.”Backed by Abu Dhabi petro dollars, Manchester City have signed Haaland on a new reported £500,000 a week, nine-and-a-half-year deal.Pre-tax, that’s £260million before his lucrative endorsements and win bonuses are factored in.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL That’s around £71,000 a day, nearly £3,000 an hour and 83p per second.The minimum wage for ordinary folk rises to £12.21 an hour in April. Haaland earns that in 15 seconds.It takes Haaland six seconds to earn the cost of a pint and just under two and half days to make enough to afford a new Ferrari ­Portofino M Convertible.City are said to have backdated the deal to the start of the season which means Haaland will pocket £3.25million in wages he is owed since then.Most read in FootballTellingly, the striker said yesterday: “Now I am City no matter what.”For the Manchester club still awaits the verdict after being charged with 115 breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules.Erling Haaland talks about his contract extension at Man City to 2034 Possible sanctions include a points deduction or even relegation from England’s top division.‘We’re like any couple’It means that Haaland could be turning out at Millwall’s New Den or Oxford United’s Kassam Stadium rather than Anfield or Old Trafford with his deal that stretches to 2034.One fan tweeted: “By the time his contract ends, I’ll have grandkids, and they’ll still be watching him pad his stats against Burnley!”The deal comes after Haaland and glamorous Isabel had their first child shortly before Christmas.Although the couple are said to live quietly at their six-bed Cheshire mansion, they enjoy spending the wealth they have amassed.They pair have taken lavish holidays including breaks in Marbella, where Haaland owns a £6million villa, and on a yacht in Capri, Italy.He’s been pictured pairing a £300,000 watch with a Burberry pyjama set. In 2023 he was caught using his mobile phone at the wheel of his £300,000 Rolls Royce Cullinan SUV.Just before Christmas, Isabel spent more than £6,000 at ­Selfridges. Her items included a £2,700 Gucci bag, a £1,670 backpack and a £950 Gucci hoodie in the online spree.Details of Isabel’s spending blitz emerged after blundering Selfridges staff sent her receipt to another customer by mistake.Isabel and Haaland first met when they both played in Byrne, Norway, at the local football youth academy.Haaland seems to have retained at least some of the down-to-earth nature of a lad from a small town.Haaland plugged his monster new deal with an Instagram video, in which he wore white shorts, sitting cross-legged in the snow in a meditation poseCredit: instagram/erlingThe ace on holiday in Capri, Italy, with Isabel last yearCredit: BackGridThe pair larking around on the tripCredit: BackGridDuring his first weeks at City he was spotted shopping at Sainsbury’s. He later mocked those who expressed surprise at seeing him in a regular supermarket by tweeting: “At M&S. Bought a bag of Percy Pig. Don’t tell anyone.” Isabel has said: “We just want to live our lives without too much fuss. At the end of the day, we’re just like any other couple.”Now I am City no matter whatErling HaalandNot every other young couple starting a family will earn £260million in the next decade, of course.A source said: “Isabel absolutely loves sport and football — that’s how they met. “She’s amazingly fit as well as stunningly beautiful and the brands are going to be all over her — not just sporting names but beauty too.”Haaland plugged his monster new deal with an Instagram video for his 38.5million followers. Fans saw him in nothing but white shorts, sitting cross-legged in the snow in a meditation pose that he has used as a goal celebration.Ethereal music plays before the star says: “I’m here to stay.”One fan posted: “My day is made! Thank you Erling.”Another added: “Stay humble.”It’s a reference to Haaland’s “stay humble” advice to Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta after City’s 98th-minute ­equaliser against the London club at the end of September.Let’s be clear. The reason Haaland is being paid this obscene amount of money is because he’s worth it.Arguably the greatest striker in the world’s best league, his goal record at City is astonishing. He is one of the reasons why the Premier League is sold around the globe — from Laos to Uzbekistan and the Pacific islands — for £10.4billion in TV rights.Arriving at City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022 for £51.2million, he scored 52 goals in all competitions — including a single-season record of 36 in the Premier League. That season the team won the league, FA Cup and Champions League to land the Treble.Last season he scored 38 goals in 45 appearances and he has 21 goals already in this campaign as he goes for a third straight Golden Boot in the ­Premier League.Haaland said yesterday: “For two and a half years as a City player I have been winning loads of trophies, playing good football, having so many great moments together with the whole club and with the fans.”The £260million deal is a ­defining moment for a sport which has deep roots in working-class communities in the 19th Century mill towns of Lancashire.Players who turned out for Accrington and Preston North End when the Football League began in 1888 would scarcely believe the riches now drenching the game.When Everton signed Nick Ross from Preston that year, he was paid £10 a month. Haaland will earn that in around 12 seconds. By the late 1960s players still earned comparatively little, despite drawing huge crowds.When City club legend Mike Summerbee signed from Swindon Town in 1965, his wages increased from £35 to £40 per week.Yet Haaland’s salary is relatively paltry compared to global sport’s top earners.Baseball star Shohei Ohtani from the Los Angeles Dodgers is pocketing £57.4million a year over a ten-year contract.Juan Soto from the New York Mets picks up £41.8million over 15 years, totalling £627million. And Mexican boxer Canelo Alvarez has a £60million-a-year deal with broadcaster DAZN for five years, while Formula 1’s Max Verstappen is earning £45million per year over six years with his team Red Bull.For two and a half years as a City player I have been winning loads of trophies, playing good football, having so many great moments together with the whole club and with the fansErling HaalandWith skin like white marble and shoulder-length blond hair, Haaland is the archetypal Norseman.Yet he was born on July 21, 2000, in Yorkshire, where his father — Norwegian international Alfie Haaland — was playing for Leeds United.In the mid-1990s Alfie had ­married Gry Marita Braut — a Norwegian heptathlete — and had children Astor, a finance student, Gabrielle, a healthcare assistant and Instagram personality, and finally Erling.Erling’s Yorkshire birth made him eligible to turn out for England’s Three Lions.In 2000 Alfie signed for ­Manchester City, where he would remain for three years.A simmering feud with hardman midfielder Roy Keane would come to a head in April 2001 when the Manchester United star brutally raked his studs into Haaland senior’s leg.The United man was sent off for the tackle, which was revenge for Alfie accusing him of feigning an injury — which was in fact career-threatening — more than three years previously.Keane would later write in his autobiography: “I f***ing hit him hard. The ball was there (I think). Take that you c***.”Bad blood still lingers.United fans goad Erling with chants of “Keano” — and Keane hasn’t spared his criticism.The pundit told Sky Sports: “In front of goal he’s the best in the world, but his general play for such a player — it is so poor. He’s almost like a League Two player.”‘I’m super-happy, proud’Alfie was said to be “really p***ed off” with the comment.When Alfie’s Premier League career ended in 2003, the family returned to his home town of Bryne in Norway.Young Erling loved running and was a natural athlete. Aged five he is said to have broken the world standing long jump record, leaping 1.63 metres.In front of goal he’s the best in the world, but his general play for such a player — it is so poor. He’s almost like a League Two player.”With ten members of his extended family who were professional footballers, he was drawn to the game and proved a natural.Joining Byrne’s football academy aged five, Haaland met Isabel, another football-mad youngster.The new mother once said: “We were just kids, kicking a ball around without a care in the world.“We were inseparable on the pitch. We didn’t know it back then, but those moments were the foundation of something much ­bigger.”In 2016 he and two friends from Norway’s youth team released their own hip-hop song on YouTube under the name Flow Kingz.Calling himself “Lyng”, Haaland raps in a baseball cap and hoodie while pretending to flip burgers and bouncing on a trampoline.His lyrics include: “I even look good when I eat”.It’s just as well his football career took off.Signing to Molde in 2017, the club put the 6ft 3ins gangly youth on a high protein diet — including reindeer steaks — to bulk him up.After moves to Red Bull Salzburg and Dortmund, he arrived in Manchester.Yesterday Haaland said: “I’m super happy, proud.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’m looking forward to staying here for a long time.”The next decade will certainly bring him untold riches and, just maybe, a spell playing Championship football.Erling with Oasis star Noel GallagherCredit: Tim StewartThe star pictured pairing a £300,000 watch with a Burberry pyjama setCredit: Tim StewartErling lifting the Champions League trophy with Isabel in 2023Credit: GettyThe pair having a private moment under the flagCredit: Getty More

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      ‘A privilege and honour’ – Denis Law tributes pour in as Beckham, Neville and Rooney pay respects to Man Utd icon

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      MANCHESTER UNITED stars of past and present have paid tribute to club legend Denis Law. The Red Devils icon passed away at the age of 84 following a long battle with Alzheimer’s.Man Utd legend Denis Law has died at the age of 84Credit: RexDavid Beckham led the tributes from past United playersCredit: InstagramLaw won two First Division title and a European Cup with the Red DevilsCredit: RexBecks’ ex-teammate Gary Neville also paid tribute to the Scottish forwardCredit: PAUnited trio David Beckham, Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney were among figures from around the world of football to pay their respects to the Scot.Becks wrote on his Instagram page: “Tonight we lost a true gentleman of the game. Our heart goes out to Denis’s family.”Our hearts are heavy tonight. A legend on the field but the perfect gentleman off.”Neville, who played 400 times for United during a two-decade career, wrote: “Rest in Peace Denis.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”A great footballer and a great man. It’s a privilege and an honour to have spent time in your company. The King of the Stretford End.”Ex-England forward Rooney took to X, writing: “Legend. Thoughts with all Denis’ family and friends.”Law’s ex-United teammate Brian Kidd added: “He was slight, with the heart of a lion.”An unbelievable finisher, he scored every type of goal. Most read in Football”He said to me: ‘If you’re ever wide, don’t look up, put the cross in early. If I’m not there it’s my fault’. He was usually there. “Sir Matt [Busby] loved him. We all did. He was the King of the Stretford End.”Former Man Utd footballer Denis Law looks back on his incredible career in Sky doc The Law Man Former Man Utd captain Bryan Robson penned his own tribute, saying: “We have lost one of football’s giants both as a player and a gentleman.”It’s incredibly sad, he was more than just a fantastic footballer, he was a fantastic man.”Law’s family confirmed the United legend’s passing in a statement released by the club on Friday evening. It read: “Manchester United is deeply saddened to share the following statement on behalf of the Law family.”It is with a heavy heart that we tell you our father Denis Law has sadly passed away. “He fought a tough battle but finally he is now at peace.“We would like to thank everyone who contributed to his wellbeing and care, past and much more recently.”Law began his career with Huddersfield Town as a teenager in the mid-1950s.Law won 55 caps for Scotland, scoring 30 goalsCredit: XThe League One club wrote on X: “All at Huddersfield Town are profoundly saddened to learn of the passing of Denis Law. “A legend of not only our great Club, but an immortal of the sport as a whole, he will be deeply missed and his memory cherished by us all. “Our collective thoughts are with Denis’ family and loved ones at this time. Once a Terrier, always a Terrier.”Law later moved to Manchester City and Torino before arriving at Old Trafford in 1962.Over the next 11 years, he would win two First Division titles and a European Cup with United.One member of United’s Holy Trinity alongside Bobby Charlton and George Best, Law netted a remarkable 237 goals in 404 games.Wayne Rooney also paid his respects to a United legendCredit: RexCapped 55 times by Scotland, his national team wrote on X: “A true great. We will not see his likes again.”And Law’s international teammate Joe Jordan told the BBC: “Denis Law is one of the greatest players to ever play for Scotland. READ MORE SUN STORIES”What he achieved at club level, people associate Manchester United with Bobby Charlton, George Best and Denis Law. “That speaks for itself, he was a special player.” More

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      Denis Law’s health battle with dementia left Man Utd icon losing memory & leaning on ‘strong’ wife before death at 84

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      MANCHESTER United legend Denis Law faced a tough battle with Alzheimer’s and dementia in the years before his death on Friday, aged 84.Denis revealed his dementia diagnosis in August 2021 and remained committed to bringing more awareness to the disease until his death.Denis Law has died aged 84Credit: Rex FeaturesDenis Law with his wife Diana at the HMV Football Extravaganza at The Park Lane HiltonCredit: GettyDenis found his fame playing for Manchester United and ScotlandHe and his wife Diana spoke out about the challenges of caring for a partner with dementia as part of an Alzheimer’s Society campaign in March 2023.Their moving joint testimony read: “When you get married, you never imagine that decades after making those vows of ‘in sickness and in health’ that you will end up testing them to the limits with dementia.“We tackle everything together. But living with dementia means Diana has to take responsibility a bit more now although we still come as a team of course. It’s a change for both of us.“It goes to show that dementia can affect anyone, no matter who you are. READ MORE ON DENIS”I’m extremely lucky to have enjoyed such an amazing career in football. “Not many people have had the experiences I have had – including winning the World Cup! I have been shown such love from the public.”Denis was open about his diagnosis from the beginning, and recognised that his remaining days would be “hard, demanding, painful and ever changing”.He said at the time: “This will not be an easy journey especially for the people who love you the most.Most read in Football”I recognise how my brain is deteriorating and how my memory evades me when I don’t want it to and how this causes me distress in situations that are beyond my control.”I do understand what is happening and that is why I want to address my situation now whilst I am able, because I know there will be days when I don’t understand and I hate the thought of that right now.”Former Man Utd footballer Denis Law looks back on his incredible career in Sky doc The Law Man Denis joined a string of other footballers diagnosed with the degenerative brain disease, including his former United teammate Sir Bobby Charlton.A statement from the Law family on Friday night read: “It is with a heavy heart that we tell you our father Denis Law has sadly passed away. “He fought a tough battle but finally he is now at peace.””We would like to thank everyone who contributed to his well-being and care, past and much more recently. Denis Law and Sir Rod Stewart in 1998Credit: LWTLaw was the last surviving member of the Red Devils’ holy trinityCredit: Getty”We know how much people supported and loved him and that love was always appreciated and made the difference. Thank you.”Law started his career at Huddersfield Town, had two spells at Manchester City and played for Torino in Italy.But it was at Old Trafford from 1962-73 where he made his name scoring 237 goals in 404 games.He won two titles with United and the FA Cup and helped them to the 1968 European Cup Final where they beat Benfica although missed out on the game due to injury.Sir Bobby Charlton, Law and George Best were integral as the Red Devils become the first English side to win the European Cup.Denis’s old club issued a statement after his death that said: “Everyone at Manchester United is mourning the loss of Denis Law, the King of the Stretford End, who has passed away, aged 84. “With 237 goals in 404 appearances, he will always be celebrated as one of the club’s greatest and most beloved players.”The ultimate goal-scorer, his flair, spirit and love for the game made him the hero of a generation. “Our deepest condolences go out to Denis’s family and many friends. His memory will live on forever more.”The recognition of a link between football and dementia has been growing ever since the death of West Brom striker Jeff Astle in 2002.After his death, it was confirmed that he was the first British footballer known to have died as a result of repeatedly heading a football.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe inquest into his death therefore recorded a verdict of “death by industrial disease”.A study in 2019 found that professional footballers are three-and-a-half times more likely to die from dementia than people of the same age range in the general population.He was diagnosed with dementia a year after his United teammate Sir Bobby Charlton (left)Credit: GettyDenis Law, 1940-2025Credit: X/ManUtd More