Football

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares18 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Because we are the engine…’ – Ruben Amorim sensationally blames TEAM for Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s brutal Man Utd cuts

      by

      RUBEN Amorim has warned his stumbling stars: You’re the engine of this club – so start driving us forward.Amorim’s under-performers have picked up just 15 points from 15 games since he arrived in November, and Manchester United are heading for their worst since relegation in 1974.Ruben Amorim has blamed his side’s results for the Man Utd’s latest cost-cutting measuresCredit: RexSir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos announced plans to axe 200 Man Utd staff members in the coming weeksCredit: PATheir Old Trafford clash with Ipswich tomorrow is a repeat of the Portuguese gaffer’s first game in charge, in November, with United far closer to the drop zone than European one.Morale was already plummeting as quickly as the team’s league position even before Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s initial round of 250 job cuts over the last 12 months.And Monday’s news that minority investor Ratcliffe plans to axe another 200 at the end of the season has sent it sliding to rock bottom.Amorim has already admitted the ultimate blame for any cost-cutting stems from a lack of success on the field.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNow he has hammered home the message to his red-faced Reds, as they go into a game they’d have once been expected to stroll, yet now cannot be tipped to win with any belief.Amorim insisted: “It is that we have to address all the problems in the club but one important piece at this moment is to understand how we got to this situation.“It’s a lot to do with the lack of success of the football team because we are the engine of the club… and I want to improve the players, the results and the team.“It’s always hard for everybody, when they see their friend and team mates losing jobs, but we have to focus on what we can do in this moment.Most read in FootballManchester United are in dire formCredit: AlamySir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charityCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“We as a club have to understand what we did wrong to get this this and think in terms of solutions.“We are in a difficult situation and have to fight against those feeling and fight to perform better.”Ruben Amorim apologises to Christian Eriksen for ‘misunderstanding’ after comments about Man Utd star’s heart situation United’s woeful season has seen them win just two Prem games at home – Everton and Southampton – and the seven defeats already is the same as the year they went down.Amorim admits all the changes and cuts of Ratcliffe’s purse-tightening regime haven’t helped – yet stressed it all comes down to results.He added: “This year was really hard for everybody, and we had a lot of changes. But if you have a team that is playing well and wining it is easier for people to understand them.“But in this moment we are in a difficult period inside the club and on the pitch so we have to fight against this feeling, do our job and try our best to help the team to perform better“I understand all the critics, you have to accept it and try to change it. But since I arrived I expect to win all the games at home.“But I don’t feel the pressure because the supporters are amazing. We have to stop and think it is a new game, it can be a new story, so let’s go forward.”On top of letting staff go, it was already revealed in the past week that United will be stopping free lunches for staff at Old Trafford, instead offering them fruit.While those working at Carrington will lose access to the same menu as the players for their lunches from next season, instead being offered soup and sandwiches.READ MORE SUN STORIESFinancial results published last week showed the club owe £391m in transfer fees and have seen interest costs since the Glazer family took over in 2005 top £1billion.While it was also revealed that United had spent a combined £14.5m to sack Erik ten Hag and his staff and let go of sporting director Dan Ashworth. More

    • 263 Shares23 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea star ‘ruled out of the season’ to return to squad TONIGHT for Southampton game with Champions League on the line

      by

      WESLEY FOFANA is expected to make his return to the Chelsea squad tonight – despite initially being ruled out for the season.The 24-year-old has been absent since picking up a hamstring injury against Aston Villa at the start of December.Wesley Fofana is set to return for Chelsea tonight against SouthamptonCredit: AFPThe defender has been unavailable since December 1 with a hamstring injuryCredit: PAIt was first reported that he would remain out of action for around five weeks.However, head coach Enzo Maresca then admitted that he could miss the rest of the season.Despite the initial concern, Fofana did not require surgery on the hamstring issue.And he is now set to make his return to the pitch – months earlier than expected.Read More in FootballAccording to French outlet RMC Sport, the defender is expected to be named in the Chelsea squad for tonight’s match against Southampton at Stamford Bridge.Fofana has been limited to just 12 appearances for Chelsea this season due to injury.Tonight’s meeting between Chelsea and Southampton is crucial for Maresca, with the Blues competing for Champions League football.If they drop points in their next two Premier League games – the second being against Leicester City – ex-Arsenal star and pundit Paul Merson is convinced that the head coach’s job will be at risk.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe said: “If they don’t win their next two games, the manager won’t be there.”They’re playing against two of the worst teams to play in the Premier League for I don’t know how long in Southampton and Leicester.Chelsea ratings vs Aston Villa: Jorgensen howler, Rashford super-sub”So, if they don’t win those two games, he will do well to keep his job.”Chelsea have got to get in the Champions League. They need the Champions League to keep players like Cole Palmer as he will want to play in that competition.”They will have to finish in the top five, otherwise I dread to think what’s going to happen. I just don’t see what the plan is.”All the seven-year contracts and these players are not getting any better. How many of them have been a major success?” More

    • 250 Shares14 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Over my dead body’ – Mikel Arteta bizarrely hints Arsenal should be MID-TABLE but still won’t give up on title

      by

      MIKEL ARTETA says Arsenal will give up on the Prem title “over my dead body”.And the Gunners boss admits this gruelling season of injuries and suspensions is one of his “proudest moments” at the club – because it could have left them in MID-TABLE.Mikel Arteta insists Arsenal will not give up on the Premier League titleCredit: GettyPrem leaders Liverpool have one hand on the title with an 11-point gap on second-placed Arsenal after Arteta’s men slumped to a 1-0 home defeat to West Ham last weekend.Barring an unprecedented collapse from Arne Slot’s Reds with 12 games left, Arsenal are on course for a THIRD successive year as the top flight nearly boys.Yet ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Nottingham Forest, asked if the title race is over, Arteta said: “Over my dead body.“You cannot control [Liverpool’s lead]. At the end, you’re going to have to set a certain number of points to win in this league.Read More in Football“And we’re going to have to hit that number if we’re going to have any chance of doing that. But we’re certainly going to continue to try.“If not, I’ll go home. Mathematically, it’s possible. You are there, you have to play every game. Suddenly, three days ago, we could close the gap and you are one and a half games away.“It doesn’t matter. We have to continue to go. The players know, especially because we’ve been in the other position recently and we know how quickly things can change.“You have to be there and we all deserve to continue in that fight.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe Gunners have suffered several injury setbacks this season, with star man Bukayo Saka a key absenteeCredit: Getty“The thing is that when you are there, you want more and you want more and you want more. And I’m not going to stop. Over my dead body.“We’ll put everything that we possibly can to increase the probability of us winning and being better than the opponent and hitting that performance and those standards constantly, regardless of what happens.Mikel Arteta lays into Arsenal flops after defeat to West Ham derails Premier League title bid“The difficulty is higher than three days ago. But if you want to win the Premier League, you’re going to have to do something special.“You’re going to have to win with the circumstances that we have. You’re probably going to have to do something that nobody else has done in the history of the Premier League.”Despite their drop-off in the title race, Arteta insists he remains proud of what his team have achieved so far this campaign – in the Prem and in Europe.The Spaniard cited the fact that from November 9, 2024 to February 16, 2025, Arsenal matched Liverpool with 10 wins and five draws, with an identical goal difference of +23.And that run included injuries to the key figures like Ben White, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli, as well as two red cards to Myles Lewis-Skelly, alongside the reds also picked up by Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard and William Saliba earlier in the season.They are also in the Champions League last 16 – facing PSV next week – having finished third in the brand new league phase format, just two points behind winners Liverpool.Arteta continued: “It’s been extremely consistent for the last three and a half months, considering everything that we’ve been through.“So, if somebody tells you at the start of the season, by this time, you have played five times with a red card over half an hour in each of those games, and you have lost this amount of players, what’s the bet?READ MORE SUN STORIES“You are in the middle of the table, at least, you know, and you are out of the Champions League.“That’s not the situation. So that tells you the resilience, the resources, the ambition that the team has, every individual has and that has been probably one of my proudest moments, in that sense.”Arsenal player ratings vs West HamMYLES Lewis-Skelly’s second red card of 2025 appeared to put the final nail in Arsenal’s title dreams and any chances of them catching Liverpool.The Gunners lost 1-0 to West Ham and failed to respond to Jarrod Bowen’s opener on the brink of half-time.The Hammers’ wall stood firm as Arsenal registered just two shots on target before Lewis-Skelly’s last-man foul on Mohammed Kudus was upgraded to a red after ref Craig Pawson went to the monitor.And Liverpool fans will breathe a sigh of relief given their recent dip in form as Arsenal remain EIGHT points behind Arne Slot’s men.Here SunSport’s Charlie Wyett rates every Arsenal player from the Emirates Stadium.DAVID RAYA – 5Declan Rice indicated to Raya that he expected him to come off his line to deal with the cross for the goal.Maybe he had a point but ultimately, Raya was let down by his defenders.JURRIEN TIMBER – 6West Ham did not offer much of a threat down their left so Timber had a reasonably comfortable game while he did try and get forward. WILLIAM SALIBA – 6Was ordered by Mikel Arteta to push forward more in the second half when Arsenal had possession and in the closing stages, seemed to spend more of his time in West Ham’s area.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Switched off for the Bowen goal but he was not the only one. Also found the impressive Kudus tough to handle when he cut inside.Guilty of delivering an abysmal cross late in the game when Arsenal needed a bit of quality.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 4A poor performance. Given the nod ahead of Lewis-Skelly but badly at fault for the opening goal as he did not get close enough to Aaron Wan-Bissaka who delivered the cross to Bowen.Was replaced after he kept losing the ball.DECLAN RICE – 5Not a day he will want to remember against his former club and he got plenty of stick from West Ham’s fans, as you would expect.Wasted one chance before the break and failed to track Bowen for the goal. Substituted shortly into the second half which was a surprise.THOMAS PARTEY – 5A sluggish performance from Partey whose passing was also poor. Lucky not to be replaced.ETHAN NWANERI – 6Had a fascinating battle with West Ham teenager Ollie Scaries, who  was making his first Premier League start.Nwaneri was excellent at Leicester but had less success against his fellow youngster although still had some bright moments.But, at least he has a bit of a spark unlike some of his more experienced team-mates. The 17-year-old sparked concern when he came off injured in the final 10.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 5Not having his best season at Arsenal. This was the sort of game Arsenal needed their captain to deliver a moment of inspiration but he failed to do so. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 5Not a surprise that he was not used as a false nine like that disastrous experiment against Leicester.But he had no joy against the impressive Wan-Bissaka.MIKEL MERINO – 5Was the two-goal hero in his first ever appearance as a substitute striker at Leicester but had no success against West Ham’s well-drilled defence.He looked lost out there as the makeshift No 9.SUBS:Myles Lewis-Skelly (for Calafiori 56 minutes) – 4Got a red card – Arsenal’s fifth of the campaign – and although he was a long way out could have no complaints.Oleksandr Zinchenko (for Rice 56 minutes) – 6Raheem Sterling (for Nwaneri 81 minutes) – N/ABen White (for Saliba 87 minutes) – 5Was handed his first Premier League minutes since returning to the squad for last week’s Leicester win. Subs not used: Neto, Tierney, Kiwior, Jorginho, Butler-Oyedeji. More

    • 238 Shares14 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd should give Paul Pogba THIRD chance – he’s better than anything else they’ve got, claims Treble winner

      by

      MANCHESTER United should give Paul Pogba a THIRD chance because he’s still better than any of their current midfielders, claims Old Trafford legend Dwight Yorke.And Treble-winning hero Yorke reckons United are not safe yet from relegation and need all the help they can get.Paul Pogba is a free agent after leaving JuventusCredit: ReutersPogba has already had two spells at Manchester UnitedCredit: AFPThe Red Devils midfield has underperformed this seasonCredit: GettyDwight Yorke believes the Red Devils should hand the midfielder another chanceCredit: EPAPogba, 31, is available on a free transfer after serving a doping ban and Yorke believes United should take a punt on the former France international.Yorke said: “I would give Paul Pogba a third chance, definitely, because of what United currently have and because of what we know he is capable of producing.“United have struggled, and Pogba is a damn good player.“Even though he’s 31, I think he’s far better than what we have now. And if you’re going to get a player for free, who’s far better than all our players in midfield, then you do it.READ MORE ON MAN UTD“With two months left, I would say, ‘Let’s have a look’. Give him a contract.“You’ve got time here to prove yourself. You can come and play and help us out with the situation.“I’m sure Pogba would be very keen. Maybe he might want a long-term deal because of the security.”United’s penny-pinching bosses would balk at a mega-money deal for former Old Trafford star Pogba, who twice left Old Trafford for Juventus.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut beleaguered boss Ruben Amorim is floundering after a comeback draw at Everton left his team deep in the bottom half of the table.Yorke is refusing to rule out United being relegated and delivered a withering verdict on Amorim and his underperforming players in an interview with casinobeats.com.’I take responsibility but…’ – Paul Pogba breaks silence as ex-Man Utd star gives first interview since doping banAnd the former Trinidad and Tobago international contrasted Amorim’s struggles since arriving at Old Trafford in November with the immediate impact that former United boss David Moyes made on his return to Everton.Ruben Amorim has lost nine of his 22 games at the clubCredit: GettyMan Utd ratings vs EvertonMANCHESTER UNITED fought back from two goals down to draw against Everton at Goodison ParkThe Red Devils were slammed as “embarrassing” by Rio Ferdinand after failing 2-0 down in the first half.But they fought back late on thanks to a stunning Bruno Fernandes free-kick and volley from Manuel Ugarte, who bagged his first goal since his summer arrival from PSG.Amorim’s men were then lucky to escape a penalty in the final moments after VAR overturned the decision.SunSport’s Ken Lawrence has given his ratings of the Manchester United team…Andre Onana – 7United needed him with his game-head on, and his 93rd-minute stop saved a point.Noussair Mazraoui 69′ – 4Looked seriously uncomfortable on the right side of the back three – forced there because of a defensive injury crisisHarry Maguire – 4Out-jumped by Doucoure as the midfielder grabbed Everton’s second and was generally all over the place.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Nowhere for Beto’s opener, completely missing attempted clearance and got away with a 93rd-minute penalty call.Diogo Dalot – 5At least shows willing. Which is more than could be said for some of his team mates at Goodison.Manuel Ugarte – 7Spent most of the game stranded in United’s midfield morass but salvation came with a brilliant strike.Casemiro 62′ – 2The Brazilian is beginning to look like the world’s oldest 32-year-old —he’s become a genuine irrelevance.Patrick Dorgu – 6Made a determined start down the left flank but that enthusiasm was slowly but surely sucked out of him.Bruno Fernandes – 8His free kick was genuine class and once he was dropped deeper started controlling the game.Joshua Zirkzee – 4At £36.5M you would expect an element of ball control but the Dutchman used as a joint No 10 just looks lost.Rasmus Hojlund 69′ – 3Not so much a desperate Dane, more a despairing one although it would help if he had some support.Subs:Alejandro Garnacho 62′ – 7Injected some desperately needed pace and passion. Leny Yoro 69′ – 6Should have been on much earlier.Chido Obi-Martin 69′ – 5The 17-year-old has a presence for sure.Yorke said: “We’re in 15th place. People still think that we are safe. I am not so sure.“There’s still a long way. And the more games you are losing, the harder it gets.“Amorim is in a difficult place right now. He needs to find a way out.“I do believe that despite the challenges of where United are, as a manager, you’ve got to stabilize the club.“How could David Moyes go to a team that was struggling more than United and suddenly turn that around?“Moyes has done well at Everton but certainly we’ve got better players at United. Somehow, he’s managed to turn it around while we continue to struggle.”“I’m not saying that Amorim’s not a good manager. We’re not asking you to beat Liverpool, we’re not asking you to beat Arsenal.“All we’re saying is, just win some football matches against teams that you should be beating.READ MORE SUN STORIES“And if you’re not going to win against the big boys, and you’re not going to start winning against the small boys, when are you going to start?”To read the full Dwight Yorke interview, go to https://casinobeats.com/dwight-yorke-interview/ More

    • 225 Shares20 Views

      in Soccer

      Jose Mourinho’s most controversial moments, from poking a rival coach in the eye to handbags with Arsene Wenger

      by

      CONTROVERSY has seemed to follow Jose Mourinho throughout his career.The Special One is currently causing a stir in Turkey, where he coaches Fenerbahce.Jose Mourinho is in hot water at Fenerbahce after being accused of racismCredit: GettyMourinho has courted plenty of controversy over the years, including his respect rantFollowing a 0-0 draw with fierce rivals Galatasaray, the Portuguese tactician has been accused of making “racist statements”.Former Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham boss Mourinho claimed after the stalemate that Galatasaray had tried to get one of his team booked early on.He told a press conference that “everyone on the opposing bench was jumping around like monkeys”.However, Galatasaray have now hit back – vowing to file a criminal complaint against the two-time Champions League winner.Read more football news It’s the latest of a long list of controversial moments that have featured Mourinho.SunSport wades through some of those below.”Respect”During a press conference in the 2018-19 season, Mourinho took umbrage to journalist’s questions following a 3-0 defeat for his Manchester United said.Holding up three fingers, Mourinho said: “What was the result? 3-0? You know what this means? 3-0.Most read in Football”But it also means three Premierships, and I’ve won more Premierships alone than the other 19 managers together. Three for me, and two for them.”‘I’m not Kurt Zouma’ – Jose Mourinho makes outrageous outburst when asked if he prefers dogs or catsHe then got out of seat, gesturing the media to calm down with the palm of his hand, before repeatedly saying ‘respect, respect man’.Fracas with WengerMourinho and Wenger already had previous, when the then Chelsea boss called the French manager a “specialist in failure”.However, handbags were flying when the legendary Arsenal manager entered his rival’s technical area and gave him a shove and angry words were exchanged.After the game, Wenger explained: “I wanted to go from A to B, and somebody confronted me before B without any sign of welcome.”Honestly, I don’t listen to what he says. Push him? You would know if I really tried to push. Come on.”Mourinho and Arsene Wenger had a tempestuous relationshipCredit: PA:Press AssociationThe pair got into a shoving match during a Chelsea vs Arsenal gameCredit: GettyWearing a wireThe conspiracy theories were really getting to Mourinho during his spell at Roma.He was convinced referees had it in for him during the 2022-2023 season, a campaign which saw him receive three red cards on the touchline.So, in true Mourinho form, he did what he could to protect himself. He became an informant and wore a wire.He revealed: “I’m not stupid, you know. Today, I went to the game with a microphone. I recorded everything. From the moment I left the locker room, to the moment I returned. I protected myself.”Mourinho lost confidence in Italian refs so he started wearing a wire to record their conversationsCredit: GettyMore touchline shenanigansWhen Mourinho revisited Stamford Bridge with his Man Utd team, it took his team to hold him back as he looked for a fight.To be fair to Jose, he was wound up by Chelsea’s coach Marco Ianni celebrating a late equaliser in front of him by the dugouts.Stewards, Phil Neville, and other Red Devils staff members had to hold him back as he tried to race down the tunnel to confront the Italian.Afterwards, Ianni and Maurizio Sarri offered their apologies.When coaching Man Utd, Mourinho was taunted by Chelsea coach Marco IanniCredit: ReutersMourinho tried to race down the tunnel to confront the Italian coachCredit: Sky SportsHiding in a laundry basketIn his first season in the Prem at Chelsea, Mourinho was handed a touchline ban for the Champions League quarter-final clash with Bayern Munich.But, there was no way he was going to let that get in the way of entering the dressing room to talk to his team.He told Sky Sports years later: “I go to the dressing room during the day so I was there from midday and the game is seven o’clock. I just want to be in the dressing room when the players arrive.”I went there and nobody saw me. The problem was to leave after. And Stewart Bannister the kit man put me in the basket. It was a little bit open so I could breathe.”But when he is taking it outside the dressing room, the UEFA guys were following and desperate to find me so he closed the box and I couldn’t breathe.”When he opened the box I was dying! I am serious! I was claustrophobic, I promise! It’s true.”After receiving a ban, Mourinho hid in a basket to speak with his team in the dressing roomCredit: GettyNo questions, pleaseOften, you can strike gold with Mourinho at press conferences – because of his wit, charm, and no-holds-barred comments.But, on this occasion, he chose to say nothing.It was a press conference that lasted just 10 seconds, when Man Utd’s press officer asked waiting journalists if they had any questions following the final league game of the 2016-2017 season.Now most of the written press weren’t in the room at this time, with Jose arriving before them.With the handful that were in the room hesitant, Mourinho took it upon himself to say “good” before marching off.Mourinho often gave journalists gold during press conferencesCredit: Getty – ContributorAssault on Tito VillanovaDuring his Real Madrid years Mourinho was especially spiky.And it was fierce rivals Barcelona, who irked him the most, with things coming to a head in El Clasico.After the game, Mourinho poked Pep Guardiola’s then-assistant Tito Villanova in the eye in an unprovoked attack and wandered off.Barcelona didn’t make an official complaint. However, the club said: “The public have given their opinion. They are very clear that what this person did wasn’t right. The (Spanish football) federation will act if they want to.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThey did, they gave Jose a two-game ban, which was later rescinded in a general amnesty on suspensions across Spanish football.Mourinho apologised a year later and has always continued to express his sorrow for the incident.Mourinho famously poked Tito Villanova in the eye following an El Clasico match More

    • 213 Shares28 Views

      in Soccer

      Pep Guardiola and estranged wife Cristina Serra begin divorce proceedings with pair even using the same lawyer

      by

      MANCHESTER CITY boss Pep Guardiola and his estranged wife Cristina Serra have begun divorce proceedings – and are even using the same lawyer.The couple announced their shock split in January after agreeing to end their 30-year relationship at showdown talks in Barcelona.Pep Guardiola has split from wife Cristina after 30 years togetherCredit: RexThe break-up was announced last monthCredit: GUSTAVO GONZALEZBut they are determined to avoid an ugly court battle and remain on such good terms they will share the same legal team.Sources say they have already agreed the initial terms of a multi-million pound settlement agreement that could be finalised in a matter of weeks.Pep’s extraordinarily rare “one couple, one lawyer” divorce means the formal end of their marriage will not be contested by either side.Respected Spanish journalist Lorena Vazquez, who broke the story of their split, revealed: “They want it above all to be friendly for the sake of their children.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”As you can imagine money is not going to be an issue and they have already agreed the initial terms to make sure this separation is the most cordial possible.”They have a very good relationship, so much so that the same lawyer is arranging the whole thing.”The divorce is on the way and is being left in the hands of people with their absolute trust.”She told Spanish TV programme ‘Y Ahora Sonsoles’ the couple split after Pep signed a two-year extension at the Etihad to keep him at City until 2027.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSPep and Cristina celebrate after the Champions League finalCredit: GettyThe Guardiola family pose together at Wembley in 2018Credit: AFP via GettySince then his reigning champions have been in freefall amid his worst spell as a manager.City are 20 points adrift of league leaders – and Champions-elect Liverpool – after suffering a 2-0 home defeat to Arne Slot’s side on Sunday.Watch hilarious moment Pep Guardiola tells fan ‘your wife is going to kill me’ after bizarre tattoo stunt But as he begins the mammoth task of rebuilding his side, pals insist Pep is still clinging onto hope of an unlikely reconciliation.He has previously been pictured wearing his wedding ring in a sign that he has not yet given up.But sources say he is “more amenable” to the idea than fashion entrepreneur Cristina.Their marriage is said to have hit the rocks five years ago after Cristina decided to return to Barcelona alone.Since then they have lived separate lives as Pep chased sporting immortality in Manchester.The couple first met when an 18-year-old Pep went to a fashion store owned by Cristina’s family to model some outfits by Spanish designer Antonio Miro.At the time, he was playing for Barcelona’s B team, while she was an actress who had appeared on Spanish TV.Pep’s sister Francesca once said: “He was very handsome, a good student, always getting good marks, the teachers drooled over him, he was already seductive when he was little.”Guardiola celebrates winning the Champions League with wife Cristina and daughter MariaCredit: GettyThe couple had been together throughout Pep’s playing and managerial careersCredit: AlamyCristina gave up acting to concentrate on her successful clothing business and is now said to be worth over £30million.Meanwhile, Pep established himself as one of the best midfielders of his generation, winning multiple titles with Barcelona’s first team, before entering management.He became the youngest manager to win the Champions League in 2009, lifting the most sought-after trophy in his first season in charge of Barcelona’s first team.The demands of day-to-day management took their toll though, and in 2012 he quit as boss in order to take a year out.He admitted: “I’m drained and I need to fill up.”Cristina has since said she was “feeling great” after news of their split emerged but has refused to speak publicly about the break up.Their influencer daughter Maria, 24, recently opened up about the lessons her parents have taught her.She told a Spanish magazine: “My parents have always advised me to find what I am passionate about.”They encourage me to try new things, to accept failure and to keep searching until I find my calling, because when I do, full dedication will come naturally.”They also remind me that the most important thing in life is to love and be loved.READ MORE SUN STORIES”In the end it all comes down to feeling loved.”Even in situations where we feel out of place, they tell me to listen carefully to others, there is always something valuable to learn from each person we meet.”Maria Guardiola attended Wimbledon alongside her parents last summerCredit: AP More

    • 213 Shares28 Views

      in Soccer

      How Man Utd’s latest meltdown and brutal money-saving cuts were predicted by Paddy Power in hilarious video

      by

      WHAT started out as an online joke has now become a grim reality at Manchester United.The Red Devils announced a new round of cost-cutting measures this week, unbelievably confirming speculative predictions from an online video by bookies Paddy Power. A Paddy Power advert poked fun at Manchester United’s cost-cutting measuresCredit: YouTubeClips from the video seem to have come trueCredit: YOUTUBESir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos have announced a new wave of cost-cutting measuresCredit: AlamyAfter months of penny-pinching tactics under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos, Paddy Power poked fun at the unusual measures in a lighthearted video on their social accounts.And some of their far-fetched ideas for how United could save money appear to have actually come true in the club’s newest cuts.Paddy Power’s video showed staff being given “free pizza and water”, an eerie foreshadowing for the pie, chips and water in plastic cups that were given to staff when they were informed of the incoming 200-strong culling of staff at Old Trafford.That isn’t the only thing that was seemingly predicted by Paddy Power either.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAnother clip showed staff making sure that nobody was wasting fruit in the office, a joke that is closer to reality than most would think.That’s because United have made the decision to replace the free meals on offer to staff at Old Trafford with fruit.Some of the other predictions were a little too far-fetched, like re-using tea bags four times, shortening scarves year on year and rationing toilet paper to keep costs low.And as much as the tongue-in-cheek video pokes fun at United’s cost-cutting, staff at the club face the very real and very serious prospect of losing their jobs.Most read in FootballMan Utd haven’t quite decided to reduce scarf sizes yetCredit: YOUTUBEPaddy Power joked that the club may re-use tea bags in the futureCredit: YouTubeCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSSir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charityThe 20-time English champions announced this week that as many as 200 staff members will lose their jobs in the coming months.That decision comes after 250 staff were let go last year.Andy Goldstein insists Sir Jim Ratcliffe has got everything wrong at Man Utd after drastic cuts While other measures have seen the scrapping of stewards’ bonuses, 250 job cuts last summer, cancelled Christmas parties, cuts to funding donation for former player’s charity and the end of Sir Alex Ferguson’s ambassadorial role with the club.Financial results published last week showed the club owe £391m in transfer fees and have seen interest costs since the Glazer family took over in 2005 top £1billion.While it was also revealed that United had spent a combined £14.5m to sack Erik ten Hag and his staff and let go of sporting director Dan Ashworth.Things aren’t any better on the pitch either. Ruben Amorim’s side are currently 15th in the Premier League, having won just eight of their 26 league games this season.The club is enduring its worst season on the pitch since they were relegated in the 1970s and every position lower they go costs them £4m in prize money.The underperformance and persistent cost-cutting has led to a damning statement from the Man Utd Supporters Trust (MUST).It reads: “Today’s financial results lay bare the scale of the financial mismanagement we have seen at Manchester United…”Fans should not pay the price for a problem that starts with our crippling debt interest payments and is exacerbated by a decade or more of mismanagement.”It’s time to freeze ticket prices and allow everyone – players, management, owners and fans – to get behind United and restore this club to where it belongs.”READ MORE SUN STORIESUnited have outlined plans to return to glory with their ‘Project 150’. Those plans detail how the club can become Premier League champions again by 2028 and have put weight on making the club profitable once again to make that happen. More

    • 238 Shares15 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘We’re going to have a situation…’ – Ian Wright fears THREE Arsenal superstars could run down contract, including Saka

      by

      IAN WRIGHT has serious fears over the futures of three Arsenal stars – who he reckons could RUN DOWN their contracts with the club.The North Londoners’ slim hopes of winning their first Premier League title since the 2003-04 season went up in smoke last weekend as they fell 11 points behind table-toppers Liverpool thanks to a 1-0 defeat to West Ham.Arsenal’s slim title hopes went up in smoke against West HamCredit: GettyThe contract of crocked winger Bukayo Saka expires in the summer of 2027Credit: ReutersAs do the current deals Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba are onCredit: GettyThe ending of the Gunners’ title hopes comes just weeks after manager Mikel Arteta failed to land a new striker to alleviate his attacking woes.The decision prompted many of the Emirates faithful, including Wright, to question the club’s ambitions in the transfer market.And Wright believes a continued lack of ambition could prompt stars Gabriel Magalhaes, Bukayo Saka and William Saliba to hold off signing new deals.During the latest episode of Wrighty’s House podcast, he said: “When you’re talking about renewals with certain players, Saka, Gabriel [Magalhaes], Saliba, the way they’re moving now, I bet those renewals are all going to be slow.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”We’re going to have a situation maybe like Liverpool with Trent, Salah and Virgil.”If I’m one of these players, and their teams are going to be saying, ‘Let’s wait and see, we’ve got two years left so let’s wait and see who they get in the summer.”‘I know the manager has signed again but let’s wait and see.'”If they’re not going to get the kind of players that take us to the next step, look at Saliba. Real Madrid would take him tomorrow.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”Why not wait and see what’s going on in the summer to see the kind of players and calibre of player we’re signing. This is what the people upstairs need to be careful of.”Wright, the Gunners’ former all-time leading goalscorer, believes his fears are also shared by Arteta.Mikel Arteta lays into Arsenal flops after defeat to West Ham derails Premier League title bidHe continued: “I’m sure Mikel will have told them that because he’s probably got the same kind of ambition.”‘If you’re not going to give me the kind of players I need, I’m not going to be able to keep the players I’ve got here that are our best players, who are now running down their contracts.”We haven’t even got into that conversation yet about these players.”This summer and who comes is f***ing vitally important to these players.”‘There’s a lot going on right now that needs to be unpacked by these people upstairs and they better get it right. They better get it right.”Magalhaes, Saka and Saliba’s respective multi-million-pound contracts at the Emirates all expire in the summer of 2027.Arsenal will be back in action on Wednesday night, travelling to the City Ground to take on Nottingham Forest.Ian Wright fears Arsenal’s current crop of stars could run down their contracts if things don’t changeCredit: PA More