Football

Subterms

    More stories

    • 225 Shares50 Views

      in Soccer

      Premier League’s most searched managers revealed with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta only 10th and just above Sean Dyche

      by

      LIVERPOOL boss Arne Slot was the most Google searched gaffer in the UK and worldwide during 2024.Online bookmakers Betfree have analysed the Google search data of all 29 Premier League managers across this calendar year.Arne Slot was the most Google searched gaffer in the UK and worldwide during 2024Mikel Arteta just about made the top 10 most Googled gaffersSean Dyche sits just below Mikel Arteta in the rankingsSlot is the UK’s most popular Premier League manager, with an average of 251,316 searches reported per month.Globally, the Dutchman is Googled an average of 1.15 million times per month.  He replaced club legend Jurgen Klopp in the summer and has already mounted a title charge during his first season at Anfield.With Manchester City facing an unprecedented crisis, Liverpool have been the most in-form side and sit seven points clear of Chelsea at the top of the league after their Boxing Day win over Leicester.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut Slot’s title rival Mikel Arteta has just about made the top 10, with an average of 62,868 searches every 30 days.Everton boss Sean Dyche was surprisingly just below Arteta, with 43,432 hunts per month.And Newcastle’s Eddie Howe is the second most popular Premier League manager in the UK, with an average of 155,003 searches.The Englishman ranks eighth globally, with 216,745 searches worldwide.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSPep Guardiola is the UK’s third favourite manager, with an average of 141,244 searches reported.Since joining City in 2016, Guardiola has transformed the club into one of the most successful teams in the world.Former Man Utd star Ashley Young, 39, ‘ripped his neck’ against Chelsea, claims Everton boss Sean Dyche Ruben Amorim is the fourth most searched manager in the PremAs of December 2024, Guardiola has won 35 major trophies in his managerial career across three different clubs. Manchester United’s newly appointed gaffer Ruben Amorim averages 102,046 look ups, making him the UK’s fourth most sought-after manager.Unlike Slot, who recorded the best ever managerial start of any Liverpool boss, Amorim set an unwanted record after United’s 2-0 defeat to relegation strugglers Wolves.Amorim is the first United boss to lose five of his first 10 matches for 92 years as his rough start to life at Old Trafford continues.Bruno Fernandes was shown a second yellow card – his third dismissal of the season – before goals from Matheus Cunha and Hwang Hee-chan wrapped up a huge win for Vitor Pereira’s men.There is no data for Pereira yet as the Portuguese coach only replaced Gary O’Neil eight days ago.Ranking fifth through to ninth are Enzo Marseca, Kieran McKenna, Ange Postecoglou, Unai Emery and Ruud van Nistelrooy.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile there is no place in the top 10 for Julen Lopetegui, Thomas Frank, Andoni Iraola or Marco Silva.And as high-flying Nottingham Forest sit third in the Prem, their manager Nuno Espirito Santo languishes bottom in Google searches, with an average of 1,829 per month. More

    • 188 Shares88 Views

      in Soccer

      Real Madrid cult heroes reunite and spend Christmas together thanks to stunning twin sister Wags

      by

      REAL MADRID cult heroes Dani Carvajal and Joselu were reunited this Christmas as they spent the big day with their twin sister wives.The duo had a dream season together last year after Joselu rejoined Real Madrid on loan from Espanyol.Dani Carvajal and Joselu posed with wives Daphne and Melanie CanizaresCredit: INSTAGRAM @joselumatoJoselu and Melanie smooched for a separate snapCredit: INSTAGRAM @joselumatoThe striker and his partner returned to Madrid to spend Christmas with familyCredit: INSTAGRAM @joselumatoHe and Carvajal helped Los Blancos to LaLiga and Champions League success.They were then both in the Spain squad as La Roja won Euro 2024.Despite Real Madrid picking up their option to make Joselu’s loan switch permanent last summer, they swiftly sold him on to Qatari side Al-Gharafa.But while they no longer play together at club level, Joselu and Carvajal remain linked through family.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn 2016, the former tied the knot with flight attendant and model Melanie Canizares.Six years later, Carvajal married Melanie’s wedding company entrepreneur twin sister Daphne.On Christmas Day, Joselu and Melanie uploaded a joint-Instagram post for their followers.In one of the pictures, they posed together alongside Daphne and Carvajal.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThey also uploaded one of just the two of them, kissing in front of the Christmas tree.Having returned to Madrid for Christmas, Joselu captioned his post: “Best wishes on this special night with Family.”Meet Spain’s stunning WagsCarvajal, 32, has endured a difficult season on a personal level, having suffered a knee injury in October.Subsequent surgery ruled the right-back out for the remainder of the campaign.Joselu, meanwhile, has made 18 appearances for his new club, scoring eight goals.Joselu and Melanie celebrate Euro 2024 successCredit: Instagram / mel.canizaresDaphne and Carvajal tied the knot in 2022Credit: Instagram / @daphnecanizaresThe twin sisters are further united by their football star husbandsCredit: Instagram More

    • 213 Shares92 Views

      in Soccer

      Incredible XI of out-of-contract stars including Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk as January transfer window looms

      by

      CLUBS are sure to be lining up for an incredible XI of stars whose contracts are expiring next summer.2024 is drawing to a close and with the New Year comes the January transfer window.Mo Salah is among the star names out of contract next summerCredit: AlamyTeammate Virgil van Dijk could also leave Liverpool at the end of the seasonCredit: GettyTeams from across the globe are able to buy and sell as they please.But it also marks the start of another crunch period.With just six months remaining on their contracts, stars whose deals expire in the summer can truly begin assessing their options.In the Premier League, footballers can begin talking to foreign sides over pre-contract agreements.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhile those in other countries are welcome to hold talks with any club, both at home or overseas.There are some amazing names set to be up for grabs in 2025.And an XI featuring the best players looks good enough to win the Champions League.In goal, Bayern Munich star Manuel Neuer is the pick of the bunch.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDespite turning 39 in March, the stopper remains one of the best in his position.Yet Bayern could yet attempt to sway Neuer into staying for a 15th season.’New MOTD host’ Gabby Logan’s live TV interview with Liverpool boss Arne Slot ends awkwardly At right-back, Trent Alexander-Arnold is up for grabs after spending his entire career at Liverpool.Aged just 26, his best years are still ahead.And Real Madrid are favourites to snap him up for nothing.Alexander-Arnold isn’t the only Liverpool star out of contract.Defensive team-mate Virgil van Dijk is another Anfield ace whose deal is nearing its end.But the Dutchman has shown he still performing at the highest level and would be a no-brainer for any elite side.Jonathan Tah is another elite centre-back who still has plenty to give.He led Bayer Leverkusen to the Bundesliga title last season.Trent Alexander-Arnold is a third Liverpool star facing an uncertain futureCredit: GettyThe likes of Alphonso Davies can strike pre-contract agreements next monthCredit: GettyYet it’s Barcelona who are supposedly in pole position despite Tah almost joining Bayern Munich last summer.The fallen Bavarians need reinforcements as they are also likely to lose left-back Alphonso Davies.The Canadian has only just turned 24 but has endured several injury-blighted seasons.Real are also thought to be leading the hunt, although Davies is likely to have suitors in England too.Further forward, Thomas Partey could be in the final months of his Arsenal career.He’s steadily grown into his role as a midfield controller.And with Jorginho already likely to leave, the Gunners could decide to tie Partey down to a new deal.Another midfielder out of contract is Joshua Kimmich – yet another Bayern ace with a question mark over his future.Kevin De Bruyne could leave Man City after six title winsCredit: EPATottenham may end up losing captain Son Heung-MinCredit: AlamyThe German is regarded as one of the finest in his position.But his wage demands could dictate where he ends up next year.Further forward, a FOURTH Bayern player makes the XI in the shape of Leroy Sane.The winger has lost his place in Vincent Kompany’s side to Michael Olise.And it’s believed Arsenal fancy bringing him back to England after a spell at Man City.On the other flank, none other than Egyptian king Mo Salah is set to be available.The Premier League’s top scorer looks to be guiding Liverpool to their second Premier League title.And despite his advanced years, 32-year-old Salah is proving he can continue at the highest level for at least a few more seasons.The final attacking midfield spot goes to Kevin De Bruyne, who is enduring a disappointing season at Man City.The Belgian can’t seem to nail down a spot in Pep Guardiola’s XI.But most people remember his bountiful years as City’s No10, leading them to six titles and a Champions League.Finally, Son Heung-Min is the pick of the strikers set to enter the final months of their deal.The experienced South Korean has repeatedly shown he is one of the deadliest finishes around.And after failing to land a single trophy during his time at Tottenham, Son could be tempted to head elsewhere for a crack at silverware.There are plenty of other players available too from next month, with Premier League stars like Kieran Tierney, Harry Maguire and Amad Diallo’s contracts all up.READ MORE SUN STORIESPunters could get their hands on a new England international in Angel Gomes.While those pining for a return to European football’s glory days will be amazed to see names like Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo available. More

    • 225 Shares64 Views

      in Soccer

      Liverpool star Luis Diaz’s father rushed to hospital on Boxing Day… just 13 months after horror kidnap ordeal

      by

      LIVERPOOL star Luis Diaz’s dad has been hospitalised in Colombia with chest pains 13 months after his 12-day kidnap ordeal.Dad-of-four Luis Manuel Diaz, 58, is undergoing tests after being transferred to a specialist centre from a hospital in his native town of Barrancas that he was initially admitted to yesterday morning.Luis Diaz’s father was taken to hospitalCredit: Colombia PoliceThe winger was an unused substitute yesterdayCredit: ReutersHe is said to have been given oxygen and stabilised at Our Lady of Pilar Hospital before being taken to the Cesar Cardiovascular Institute in Valledupar, a 90-minute drive away.Local news outlet El Pilon reported late yesterday that Luis Manuel, better known by his nickname Mane in his homeland, would undergo cardiac catheterisation in the coming hours.The common procedure involves moving a flexible tube called a catheter through a blood vessel to the heart.His family have denied claims he suffered a heart attack and medics are said to be looking at the possibility his chest pain could be linked to a strained muscle.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe footballer’s dad has not referenced his health scare on his social media.But he was quoted as telling local journalist Hamilton Daza: “I thank God for keeping me healthy again.“I’m a bit worried but thanks to God everything is fine, it’s nothing serious.“The doctors have certified it’s just pain and has nothing to do with heart problems.Most read in Football“There’s no need for anyone to be concerned. There’s ‘Mane’ for a while.”Diaz and his dad were emotionally reunited last yearCredit: Twitter/FCFSeleccionColHe is expected to be released from hospital in time to see in the New Year with his family back at home.The specialist hospital where Diaz’s dad is being treated confirmed in a statement released yesterday: “Luis Manuel Diaz Jimenez is hospitalised in our centre receiving comprehensive specialised medical care.Emotional moment Luis Diaz’s dad breaks down in stands after son’s double against Brazil following kidnapping hell“He will remain under strict management and surveillance with the aim of obtaining the best results for his health and his swift return to his family.”Diaz was a substitute in his side’s 3-1 Boxing Day win over Leicester and wasn’t used by manager Arne Slot.His father’s kidnap ordeal only came to to an end after 12 days when he was freed in a handover involving a Colombian priest close to the Venezuelan border on November 9 last year.His son continued playing through the harrowing episode, scoring a late goal after coming on as a substitute in Liverpool’s November 5 2023 win over Luton before returning to Colombia for international duty and being reunited with his dad in emotional scenes following his release.He went on to score two goals for his country in a historic victory over Brazil in a match his father watched from the stands.The ELN, branded a terrorist organisation by the US government and the EU, admitted responsibility for the kidnapping before Luis Manuel’s release.READ MORE SUN STORIESOne of the men involved, a friend of Luis Manuel called Yerdinson Bolivar Bolivar, was sentenced to just over four years in prison in October after admitting to his part in the kidnap.Another three men arrested over the crime have yet to be tried.Diaz revealed a message for his dad after scoring against Luton last yearCredit: PA More

    • 188 Shares46 Views

      in Soccer

      Liverpool copy Arsenal’s corner routine against Leicester as Gooners claim ‘eyes firmly in the mirror’

      by

      FANS have accused Liverpool of copying Arsenal’s winning corner routine in their 3-1 comeback win over Leicester on Boxing Day.Although the Reds didn’t score from the set-piece mimic, goals from Cody Gakpo, Curtis Jones and Mohamed Salah sent them seven points clear of Chelsea at the top of the Premier League. Liverpool have been accused of copying Arsenal’s back post corner routineArsenal have been hailed for their potent corners from lining up a train of players towards the back of the areaOver the past 18 months, Arsenal have been the set-piece kings in the Prem and have used the tactic to devastating effect under Mikel Arteta.The Gunners have scored 22 goals from corners since the start of last season and usually have a specifically potent formula.Arsenal’s routine sees them set-up a train of players lined up at the back post, who hold their position before scattering into the box.The players beyond the back post make their moves to the front post — and they mix it up to confuse defenders.READ MORE ON ARSENALAfter falling behind to Jordan Ayew’s opener, Liverpool were then awarded a corner, which Trent Alexander-Arnold took.Arne Slot’s side lined up with a huddle around the back post and the idea was for them to make chaotic runs into the area to confuse Leicester.Five players including, Andy Robertson, Darwin Nunez, Joe Gomez, Salah and Gakpo attempted to disperse off in multiple directions. But Alexander-Arnold eventually failed to find a single teammate inside a crowded penalty area.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArsenal, who have faced criticism for their reliance on corners for goals, often change the trajectory of the ball. Declan Rice favours it flatter to the front post, whereas Bukayo Saka hits it higher and more to the back and middle.’New MOTD host’ Gabby Logan’s live TV interview with Liverpool boss Arne Slot ends awkwardly And fans were quick to point out the identical set-up.One wrote: “Liverpool copying our set pieces whilst nine points clear? It’s not looking good for them I’m afraid. Eyes firmly in the mirror.”Another said: “Liverpool copying Arsenal’s corner kick routine 😂😂.”A third added: “If you can’t beat them, you join them.”But many were quick to jump to Liverpool’s defence.One wrote: “Liverpool were doing that in pre-season pretty much every game so I think it’s the other way around.”READ MORE SUN STORIESA second said: “Arne Slot already did this style with Feyenoord.”Pictures appeared online of Liverpool using the same corner routine in their 2-1 win over Arsenal in the United States in August.How to stop Arsenal at cornersArsenal have turned into a prolific team when it comes to scoring from corners.The Gunners have now scored 22 goals from them since the start of last season – seven more than their nearest rival Manchester City and eight more than Premier League leaders Liverpool.Two of them came against Manchester United – Jurrien Timber and William Saliba netting in the second half to earn Mikel Arteta’s men a vital win as they chase down Arne Slot’s Reds.Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka were the architects with their deliveries, and each now have seven set-piece assists since the start of the 2023/24 campaign – more than any other player.United legend Dimitar Berbatov joked Arsenal are the new Stoke City of the top flight – a side under Tony Pulis who terrorised the so-called “bigger clubs” with set-piece mastery.Here are four ways to stop Arteta’s side at corners More

    • 213 Shares64 Views

      in Soccer

      Gary Lineker ‘turns into Barry White’ as BBC viewers left stunned by sound of MOTD host’s voice

      by

      FANS were left stunned by Gary Lineker’s throaty voice as he presented Match of the Day last night.The veteran host, 64, fronted a bumper Boxing Day MOTD for the final time ahead of his exit at the end of the season.Gary Lineker presented his final Boxing Day MOTD last nightAlan Shearer and Joe Hart laughed at Lineker’s quipCredit: BBCAs he introduced the show, Lineker sounded more like Sean Dyche than his usual self.In gruff tones, he grunted: “Ready for some football? Eight games underway.”Introducing pundits Alan Shearer and Joe Hart, he continued: “Look who we’ve got for Christmas, one of them’s a keeper and the other one’s getting returned.”Despite Lineker’s quip, several viewers at home could only focus on his voice.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne wrote on social media: “Lineker talking like his mom’s upstairs and told him and his mates to keep the noise down, or they’ll have to go home!”While a second claimed: “Blimey, Gary Lineker sounds rough.”A third pointed out: “Gary Lineker voice shot to bits.”And a fourth joked: “Lineker turned into Barry White.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnother added: “Gary Lineker sounds awful on #MOTD are they so desperate for him to present it even when he’s clearly ill?”At the end of the programme, Lineker referenced his unusual-sounding voice.Alan Shearer in the dark on Gary Lineker’s MOTD replacement, but reveals why he doesn’t want to know who’s coming inHe closed the show by saying: “So Liverpool came from behind to beat Leicester, and it’s beginning to look a Slot like Christmas is over… and I’ve got a cold. Goodbye.”Lineker is set to leave Match of the Day after 26 years at the end of the season.He is reportedly set to be replaced by a rotating cast of Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates.Lineker will continue to present the BBC’s live FA Cup coverage during the 2025-26 campaign.He will then bring the curtain down on his illustrious Beeb career at the 2026 World Cup. More

    • 100 Shares74 Views

      in Soccer

      When does the 2025 January transfer window open?

      by

      CLUBS will get the chance to strengthen their squads once again as the 2025 January transfer window opens SOON – and it is expected to be a busy one.Manchester United star Marcus Rashford could be on his way out of Old Trafford as he revealed that he is “ready for a new challenge” after being left out of Ruben Amorim’s side on several occasions.Marcus Rashford is likely to leave Manchester United this JanuaryCredit: GettySporting’s goalscoring machine Viktor Gyokeres will also be a top target for clubs having scored a staggering 61 goals in 60 matches this calendar year.And Arsenal are expected to be in the market for a right-winger with their talisman Bukayo Saka set to be sidelined for a minimum of FIFTEEN matches.But fans want to know exactly when the 2025 January transfer window opens.SunSport can provide details on the January transfer window for several of the top leagues.Read more on transfer newsPremier League The Premier League transfer window is scheduled to open on Wednesday, January 1 and it will shut on Monday, February 3 at 11pm GMT.Even though January 31 is a Friday, the top European leagues have all agreed to extend the deadline until after the weekend.La LigaThe Serie A market will open on Thursday, January 2 and will close on Monday, February 3 at 11pm GMT.Serie AThe Serie A market will open on Thursday, January 2 and will close on Monday, February 3 at 7pm GMT.Most read in FootballBundesliga The Bundesliga window is open on Wednesday, January 1 and will close at 5pm GMT on Monday, February 3.Ligue 1Ligue 1 opens its transfer window on Wednesday, January 1 and will close it on Monday, February 3 at 10pm GMT.Saudi Pro LeagueThe Saudi Pro League window opens on Wednesday, January 1 and closes on Friday, January 31.Who is the most expensive January signing?Philippe Coutinho’s switch from Liverpool to Barcelona in the 2018 January transfer window is currently the most expensive winter deal.Barcelona signed the midfield maestro for a staggering £140million.The deal never quite worked out for the Spanish giants as Coutinho up going on a season-long loan to Bayern just over a year later. More

    • 250 Shares46 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘I take a hint’ – ‘New MOTD host’ Gabby Logan’s live TV interview with Liverpool boss Arne Slot ends awkwardly

      by

      GABBY LOGAN took the “hint” as she rapidly wound her up her interview with Liverpool boss Arne Slot last night.The popular host, who is set to be one of three new Match of the Day presenters next season, was on Boxing Day Amazon Prime Video duty.Gabby Logan caught up with Arne Slot after last night’s gameCredit: Amazon PrimeSlot and Ruud van Nistelrooy know each other from their time in HollandCredit: EPALogan, 51, presented the streaming service’s coverage of Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Leicester.She and pundits Roberto Martinez, Emile Heskey and John Arne Riise were joined by Slot after the match at Anfield.During their interview, they discussed whether he will catch up with fellow Dutchman Ruud van Nistelrooy after the game.Talking about seeing the Leicester manager, Slot revealed Van Nistelrooy and his family were waiting to meet up.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe then jokingly cut Logan off as he said: “If we don’t need to go to the media that long, we can have some time together…”Ever the pro, Logan took Slot’s quip with good grace.As Martinez, Heskey and Riise laughed, she said: “Well, I take a hint! Thank you very much, good to see you again.”The pair then shook hands as Slot said: “You’re welcome.”Most read in FootballLiverpool had just come from behind to beat Leicester 3-1, going seven points clear at the top of the table with a game in hand.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Reds went 1-0 down on just six minutes via Jordan Ayew, but Cody Gakpo levelled on the stroke of half time.Curtis Jones completed the turnaround four minutes into the second half, with Mo Salah netting a third late on.Gary Lineker ‘turns into Barry White’ as BBC viewers left stunned by sound of MOTD host’s voiceLogan, meanwhile, is set to be one of three presenters replacing Gary Lineker on Match of the Day next season.She is reportedly set to rotate with Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates between the Saturday show and Sunday’s Match of the Day 2.Logan, 51, was on Amazon Prime Video dutyCredit: Reuters More