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      Man Utd and Arsenal in transfer battle for two Olympiacos wonderkids but face fight with host of European giants

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      MANCHESTER UNITED and Arsenal are keeping tabs on two Olympiacos wonderkids ahead of the summer transfer window.Both teenage sensations are part of the Greek giants’ exciting new generation that won the Uefa Youth League with the Under-19s last season.Manchester United and Arsenal are keeping tabs on Olympiacos wonderkid Babis KostoulasCredit: GettyChristos Mouzakitis is also being eyed by Man Utd and Arsenal along with a host of European giantsCredit: GettyBabis Kostoulas and Christos Mouzakitis were among the main protagonists of that historic triumph that saw them become part of the first ever Greek team to win a European title, shortly before the seniors conquered the Europa Conference League.Both of them were quickly promoted into Olympiacos’ first team under manager Jose Luis Mendilibar last summer.Highly-rated forward Kostoulas, 17, has so far amassed a total of six goals and two assists in 33 appearances with the Piraeus outfit this season.And rising midfield star Mouzakitis, 18, has registered two goals as well as four assists in 30 appearances across all competitions.Read More on FootballSunSport understand that their ongoing rise to prominence has led to interest from Man Utd and Arsenal, but both Premier League giants are facing competition from a host of European rivals.The pair are also being monitored by Aston Villa, Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan and Juventus.Tottenham, Chelsea and Bayern Munich are reportedly keen on Kostoulas, while SunSport can reveal that the Greece Under-21 international – soon to be a senior – has received interest from Spain.We can also report that Brighton, Wolves, Villarreal and Atletico Madrid are eyeing Mouzakitis.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordThe midfielder stood out during the international break as he made his first ever start with Greece in Scotland and helped his team climb up to League A in the Nations League with a stunning 3-0 win.Kostoulas missed out on a call-up by manager Ivan Jovanovic due to a hamstring injury he suffered three weeks ago.’He’s got a sense of humour’ – Sky Sports panel in stitches after Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta’s stunt in live TV interviewBut he is in contention for Sunday’s crunch derby against rivals Panathinaikos. More

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      Sarina Wiegman facing ‘hard decision’ over England goalkeeper choice ahead of push to retain Euros crown

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      SARINA WIEGMAN admits deciding who will be England’s first choice goalkeeper for this year’s Euros is a very “tough decision”.  Khiara Keating, 20, is among four stoppers called up ahead of the Lionesses’ Nations League clashes with Belgium next month. Khiara Keating has returned to the England squad for the first time since their Nations League defeat and draw with the Republic of Ireland and SwedenCredit: GettyMaisie Symonds has received her first call-up to the Lionesses senior squad after featuring in England Under-23’s wins against Germany and FranceCredit: AlamySarina Wiegman side will take on Belgium on April 4 at Ashton Gate and in Leuven on April 8Credit: GettyThe Manchester City starlet’s recall announced today, after an eight-month absence, follows her return to top-flight action. And Brighton midfielder Maisie Symonds has received her first senior international call-up.  In February Symonds and Keating starred England’s Under-23’s friendly wins against Germany and France Keating, who is yet to make her senior England debut, pulled off some standout saves during City’s 2-1 loss to Chelsea on March 23. Read More Football StoriesHowever the WSL star, who was named player-of-the-match, has faced a battle for minutes this term with Japan keeper Ayaka Yamashita also starring for City. This season Keating, who won the top tier’s Golden Glove last year, has so far started in seven of her club’s 17 WSL games.England boss Wiegman, 55, said: “She’s a very talented goalkeeper. We saw that again last weekend. “We’re getting closer to the Euros and so looking at this camp now we’re bringing in four goalkeepers.Most read in Football”In the tournament you can only bring three and we just want to have those four in our squad next week.”In addition to Keating, Wiegman has named Mary Earps, 32, and Hannah Hampton, 24, in her 25-strong group, and Orlando Pride’s Anna Moorhouse. Chelsea’s Hampton and Earps, who plays for French side Paris Saint-Germain are both seen as solid number one contenders.In February Earps played in goal during England’s 1-1 away draw with Portugal in the Nations League. Meanwhile Hampton featured in their 1-0 defeat of Spain at Wembley, their first clash with the world champions since their meeting in the World Cup final in Australia in 2023.  Wiegman adds: “It’s a very, very hard decision to make, because now we have four very good goalkeepers. “You’re talking about Hannah and Mary who are really competing for the number-one position. They’re both world-class. “They both bring different things, but that makes it really hard.”We haven’t decided. If we make the decision, we’ll first have the conversations with them. Then we move forward.”England’s bid to retain the Euros title which they won in 2022 comes six weeks after the start of a new seven-a-side women’s football competition. The World Seven Series competition, which will commence in Europe, is reportedly set to involve eight teams. Clubs taking part in the contest, which is also due to be held in a different continent later this year, are yet to be named. The winning sides in each competition will be awarded £1.9million in prize money. World Seven Series matches will take place just over a month after England’s double header Nations League duel with Belgium on April 4th and 8th. On July 5 the Lionesses begin their Euros campaign when they take on France in Zurich, Switzerland. On if she has concerns about the contest taking place weeks before the Euros, Wiegman added:  “I think in the longer term, you see the planning a bit, I don’t see how you can get that (to) fit in the schedule. “For some players, I think when they play and there’s collaboration with clubs, we have a very good contact with clubs, they would get some, I would say, meaningful minutes to get prepared for the Euros. “Then in this short term, for some it would not be too bad, but in the longer term I don’t see how we can fit that in the schedule in the calendar.”Wiegman’s latest squad selection includes Beth Mead and Fran Kirby with the duo set for international duty following their returns from injury. Fran Kirby has scored five goals in 12 WSL games for Brighton this seasonCredit: GettyAnd Chloe Kelly has also been named among the six forwards in the group which includes Nikita Parris. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe England chief said: “Fran brings lots of experience and good football vision. “In her position there is a lot of competition but she knows exactly what’s expected at this level.” More

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      Rangers hit with suspended stadium CLOSURE over racist/discriminatory banner as club warns fans about ‘illicit songs’

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      RANGERS have been hit with a suspended stadium CLOSURE by Uefa following the recent clash with Fenerbahce.The punishment, suspended for a period of two years, has been handed down in relation to ‘racist and/or discriminatory behaviour.’Uefa have come down hard over this bannerCredit: GettyIt was displayed during the Fenerbahce match at IbroxCredit: GettyRangers have also been charged over the throwing of objectsCredit: ReutersRangers won the tie after a penalty shoot-outCredit: Willie VassLast week, Rangers released a ferocious statement where they blasted sections of their OWN support over behaviour.They revealed that Uefa sanctions were incoming following the match against Fenerbahce, held at Ibrox on Thursday, March 13.After a dramatic encounter, the Gers emerged victorious after a penalty shoot-out.But in the aftermath, Rangers raged at the ‘saddening and frankly embarrassing behaviour’ in the stands and hit out at the display of a banner in the Union Bears section.A banner displayed by the ultras read: “Keep woke foreign ideologies out. Defend Europe.”Rangers subsequently hit out at the “racist and/or discriminatory banner” as they revealed they had been hit with a number of Uefa charges.Now, the exact punishment from that charge has been handed down.Rangers have been hit with a partial stadium CLOSURE over the banner.Most read in Europa LeagueThat punishment would see the Copland Stand will SHUT for a Uefa match at Ibrox.However, it will NOT be the upcoming clash with Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League quarter-finals.That’s because the punishment is suspended for a probationary period of two years.Rangers ultras barred from Celtic ParkThat does, however, mean any Rangers have also been fined £25,000 in relation to the ‘racist and/or discriminatory behaviour.’The fuming club have unleashed a blistering statement, warning fans that any further discriminatory behaviour – including the singing of what they call ‘illicit songs’ – could result in the closure coming into force.Rangers also revealed they are issuing LIFETIME BANS to those responsible for the banner.In a statement, Rangers said: “Rangers notes the outcome of the UEFA disciplinary case, and the respective sanctions imposed upon the club for several issues at the recent Ibrox match with Fenerbahce.”Most notably, the club has been served with a suspended closure of the Copland Stand should there be any repeat of racist and/or discriminatory behaviour within the next two years.”This punishment must serve as a severe and significant reminder to the small minority of supporters who bring the name of Rangers into disrepute. Any repeat of any discriminatory behaviour (and this also includes the singing of illicit songs) may result in the famed ‘Rangers end’ of our home being closed for a UEFA match.”Not only will the reputation and finances of the club be harmed by such a punishment, but the chances of the team in a potentially key European match will also suffer enormously, while thousands of innocent fans will be unable to attend a massive fixture.”In response to the displaying of the racist and/or discriminatory banner at the Fenerbahce game, the club can confirm that it is in the process of issuing lifetime bans to the individuals responsible.”Rangers’ Uefa finesImproper conduct of the team (5 players or more), Art. 15(4) DR – Fine: £6,680Throwing of objects, Art. 16(2)(b) DR – Fine: £3,755Blocking of public passageways, Art. 38 UEFA Safety & Security Regulations – Fine: £5,000Racist and/or discriminatory behaviour, Art. 14(2) DR – Fine: £25,000; Partial stadium closure (i.e. the Copland Stand) during the next one UEFA club competition match it will play as host club. Said partial stadium closure is suspended during a probationary period of two years.Rangers were also hit with THREE further Uefa fines.They were hit with a fine in relation to improper conduct of the team of around £6,750, £3,750 for throwing of objects and £5,000 for blocking of passageways.Meanwhile, Rangers have also revealed that the groups responsible for the pyrotechnics charge relating to the recent Old Firm game will be directly hit.Rangers – as well as Celtic – will receive a ticket reduction of 500 supporters at their next Premier Sports Cup match at Hampden in relation to pyro use.The statement continued: “Further, following the use of pyrotechnics at Parkhead in the Old Firm game, the club can confirm the groups responsible for their discharge will be directly impacted by the 500 ticket reduction issued as a sanction the next time the club appears in the latter stages of the Premier Sports Cup at Hampden.”The club again stresses a future use of pyrotechnics at any SPFL match may lead to a further reduction of 800 tickets at a latter-stage Premier Sports Cup match.”The strongest asset this football club has is our support, and the club knows the overwhelming majority of our supporters will be angered by these episodes and the consequences they have for the club and its supporters.”We reiterate our call for all supporters to back the team in the correct manner, and to challenge those who seek to further damage the good name of Rangers.”Celtic were also hit with three Uefa charges in the latest round of sanctions, including a suspended one-match ban for manager Brendan Rodgers.READ MORE SUN STORIESAll three sanctions stem from the Champions League tie against Bayern Munich.Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      What happened to the six Englishmen who played for Real Madrid with Trent Alexander-Arnold set to join exclusive club

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      TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD is set to become just the seventh Englishman to play for Real Madrid in the professional era.The Liverpool full-back, 26, has agreed terms with the Spanish giants.Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to seal his Liverpool exitCredit: GettyAlexander-Arnold has reportedly sealed a five-year contract worth £240,000 a week.The England star will link up with international team-mate Jude Bellingham in the Spanish capitalOver the last four years playing for the Three Lions together, the duo have forged a strong friendship.So they will be thrilled to team up at club level for arguably the biggest team in the world.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLPrior to the professional era, Englishmen Charles Wallace, Guillermo Linney and Arthur Johnson played for Los Blancos.While a further trio – Lindsey, Stampher and Vickerstaff – also played for Real Madrid in the club’s early years, although their first names are not known.The six England stars to have played for Real Madrid in the modern era have had mixed fortunes.Ahead of Alexander-Arnold’s blockbuster free transfer, SunSport takes a look at how each of his English Real Madrid predecessors have fared.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKLAURIE CUNNINGHAM (1979-1984)Real Madrid splashed out £950,000 to sign Cunningham from West Brom in 1979.As one of the “Three Degrees” alongside Cyrille Regis and Brendon Batson, Cunningham had left an unforgettable mark at the Hawthorns.’He’s going to Tranmere after this’ – Roy Keane rips into Trent Alexander-Arnold after ‘school boy’ defending vs Man UtdThe left winger became an instant hit in the Spanish capital, scoring twice on his debut.Cunningham helped his side to the LaLiga title in 1980, and played in the European Cup final against Liverpool the following year.Following a loan spell with Manchester United, Cunningham moved to Marseille in 1984.Having played for Leicester, Charleroi and Wimbledon, Cunningham returned to Madrid with Rayo Vallecano in 1988.The following year he tragically died in a car crash in the city aged just 33.Laurie Cunningham signed for Real Madrid in 1979Credit: PA:Empics SportCunningham had achieved legend status at West BromCredit: GettySTEVE MCMANAMAN (1999-2003)Like Alexander-Arnold is set to, McManaman left boyhood club Liverpool for the bright lights of Madrid in 1999.A silky winger, McManaman proved to be a hit in Madrid.The Bernabeu crowd immediately took to their new English hero, with his floppy hair and nonchalant flair.McManaman helped Real win six trophies in four years, and scored his side’s second goal in their victorious 2000 Champions League final.He went on to leave Madrid in 2003, spending the final two years of his career with Manchester City.After hanging up his boots, McManaman worked as a pundit for Setanta Sports, BT Sport and ESPN.Now 53, he can regularly be seen on TNT Sports’ football coverage, especially when Liverpool or Real Madrid are playing.Steve McManaman was popular with Real Madrid’s fansCredit: AFPMcManaman, 53, is now a TNT Sports regularCredit: GettyDAVID BECKHAM (2003-2007)In 2003, Real Madrid made Manchester United superstar Beckham their latest Galactico.Golden Balls joined a squad boasting the likes of Ronaldo, Raul, Zinedine Zidane and Roberto Carlos in the Spanish capital.Despite his love for high-end fashion and the celebrity lifestyle, Beckham became much beloved in Spain for his incredible work rate, professionalism and of course, quality.Despite boasting a star-studded squad, the fabled La Decima – a tenth Champions League triumph – eluded Real Madrid during his four-year stint.He didn’t leave empty-handed, however, winning the LaLiga title in 2007 before leaving for LA Galaxy.Since Beckham hung up his boots in 2013 he has continued to have several endorsement deals; including the likes of Adidas, Armani, Pepsi and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.Beckham, 49, also owns MLS side Inter Miami, and played a big role in their groundbreaking deal for Lionel Messi in 2023.David Beckham spent four years as a GalacticoCredit: AFPBeckham brought Lionel Messi to Inter MiamiCredit: APMICHAEL OWEN (2004-2005)Like McManaman before him, Owen quit Liverpool for Real Madrid.But the former Ballon d’Or winner endured a frustrating season at the Bernabeu, finding himself stuck behind Ronaldo and Raul.Twelve months on from Owen’s £8million switch, Real Madrid doubled their money by flogging him to Newcastle.Owen then spent three years with Liverpool’s rivals Man Utd, before one final year at Stoke.Immediately after hanging up his boots, Owen signed up to be BT Sport’s primary co-commentator upon the channel’s launch.In addition to his punditry work, the former striker has enjoyed several other ventures.Owen, 45, has his own clothing range with Peacocks, while he also appeared on The Masked Singer.Michael Owen scored 16 goals for Real MadridCredit: AP:Associated PressOwen, 45, appeared on The Masked SingerJONATHAN WOODGATE (2004-2007)Woodgate endured one of the most infamous debuts of all time after switching Newcastle for Real Madrid in 2004.The luckless defender went through injury hell following the £13.4m transfer, having to wait 17 months before playing his first game.Just 25 minutes in, the England international headed into his own net. Things then got even worse when he was sent off just after the hour mark.Woodgate played just 14 times that season, before a loan move to Middlesbrough effectively ended his Real Madrid career.After signing permanently for Boro, Woody earned a move to Tottenham in January 2008. He won the League Cup barely a month later, and remains the last Spurs player to score a winning goal in a cup final.Following spells with Stoke and back at Middlesbrough, Woodgate retired in 2016.He has since gone into coaching, managing Boro and Bournemouth.Woodgate, 45, returned to Middlesbrough once again in 2022, where he works as a first team coach under Michael Carrick.Jonathan Woodgate signed for Real Madrid in 2004Credit: EPAWoodgate now works as a first team coach under Michael Carrick at MiddlesbroughCredit: AlamyJUDE BELLINGHAM (2023-present)England superstar Bellingham sealed a blockbuster £115m transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid in the summer of 2023.The move has been a resounding success, with the midfielder immediately excelling in Spain.Bellingham scored on his debut, and went on net five times in his first four LaLiga matches.The image of the 21-year-old with his arms outstretched has quickly become an iconic one.READ MORE SUN STORIESBirmingham’s finest has already won LaLiga and the Champions League during his young career.And with Alexander-Arnold soon to be alongside him, Bellingham will feel that he can add plenty more to his already impressive trophy tally.Jude Bellingham’s celebration is already iconicCredit: GettyBellingham is close friends with Alexander-ArnoldCredit: AP More

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      Disgraced Joey Barton GUILTY of pushing wife to ground then kicking her in head as their kids slept upstairs

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      DISGRACED Joey Barton has been found guilty of shoving his wife to the ground and kicking her in the head as their kids slept upstairs.The former footballer attacked Georgia Barton at their home in Kew, South West London, after a drunken night with two other couples.Joey Barton has been found guilty of attacking wife GeorgiaCredit: PAThe ex-footballer, pictured today, shoved his wife to the groundCredit: PABarton, 42, has now been found guilty of assault following a trial at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.The court heard Barton and Georgia, who are still married, had both drunk “four or five bottles of wine” before the sickening attack.The ex-Man City star threatened to fight his wife’s brother and father in a “verbal disagreement about a family matter”.Barton then “grabbed [Georgia] and pushed her to the ground and kicked her in the head”.Read more newsAs a friend tried to intervene, Barton “threw” him off and said “don’t disrespect me”.Georgia, who was left with a lump on her forehead and a bleeding nose, called police shortly after 11pm to “report she had been hit by her husband”.During a tearful 999 call played to the court, she said: “Me husband’s just hit me in the house.”He’s in the house, I’m outside.”Most read in FootballAsked if anything similar had happened before, she said: “No, it’s the first time,” adding that she had been hit “in the face”.When police arrived at around 11:30pm, Georgia told them: “I’ve been pushed down and kicked about and stuff.”He said he was going to fight with my brother and my dad.”Barton was arrested at about midnight in his bedroom, where he had been asleep, and was still drunk.Giving evidence, Barton admitted he had drunk “six to eight” drinks when the alleged attack unfolded.He told the court there had been a “disagreement” and he “stupidly took me mate’s side”.Barton continued: “We just got into petty name calling.”We ended up getting a bit more agitated and were close to each other.”The former footballer admitted he was someone that “on occasion” might lose his temper.But he denied the claims against him, saying: “If I kicked someone in the head there would be a lot more damage than what’s alleged in this case.”In her own evidence, Georgia told the court she and her husband had been “nose to nose” at one point but had not come to blows.She claimed she felt a “collision” to her head that “stunned me and made me fall backwards”.Georgia, who said she had drunk a lot of wine that day, added: “It couldn’t have been Joe, he was too far away.”Barton was due to face trial in 2022 after pleading not guilty to assault by beating but this was halted when Georgia retracted her claims.The High Court ruled last year that the trial could go ahead and that the previous decision to drop the case was “wrong in principle”.Barton married his childhood sweetheart in a lavish ceremony in 2019 at a country house in Oxfordshire.The couple have two children together – a son born in 2011 and a daughter born in 2014.Barton started his football career with Manchester City in 2002 after going through their youth system and went on to make 150 appearances for the club.He then moved to Newcastle United in a £5.8million transfer in July 2007 before leaving for Queens Park Rangers in August 2011.The midfielder was then put on loan to French side Marseille during the 2012-13 season before making his way to Burnley for one season – helping promote them to the Premier League.Barton made one appearance for England in 2007 – despite criticising some of his fellow players.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe footballer later attempted a management career with stints at Fleetwood Town and Bristol Rovers.Barton denied a single charge of assault and will be sentenced later.He attacked his wife, seen with Barton in 2011, after drinking up to five bottles of wineCredit: Getty – ContributorBarton married childhood sweetheart Georgia in 2019Credit: Instagram / Georgia McneilHe had denied a single count of assaultCredit: Alamy More

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      Arsenal Fan TV presenter Robbie credits ‘nature’s ozempic’ for incredible body transformation

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      ARSENAL Fan TV host and founder Robbie Lyle has credited ‘nature’s ozempic’ for his incredible body transformation.Lyle, 52, has undergone an impressive change in recent weeks and his put it down to the help of supplement berberine.Robbie Lyle has credited ‘nature’s ozempic’ for his incredible body transformationCredit: Instagram @robbielyleofficialLyle has undergone a sensational transformation in recent weeksCredit: Instagram @robbielyleofficialLyle has been praised for his weight lossCredit: Instagram @robbielyleofficialBerberine – dubbed ‘nature’s ozempic’ – is a chemical compound which is said to strengthen the heartbeat, kill bacteria, reduce swelling and regulate how the body uses sugar in the blood.Berberine is used as an ingredient in lots of supplements, including those made by wellness company Oxford Natural – which Lyle claims helped him lose weight and undergo his sensational transformation. Speaking in a video on Oxford Natural’s Instagram account, Lyle said: “Robbie here! Listen, I just want to big up Dr Andre and also big up all of the guys over there at Oxford Natural Clinic. “These supplements have really been helping me! The Optimum Day, the Optimum Night. This one really helps me to get a good night sleep.READ MORE ON ARSENAL”This one’s really been helping me balance my diet, helping me with my metabolism and I tell you what, I’ve lost a lot of weight.”I feel really good. I’m training, I’m eating well and these supplements have really, really helped me. So, big up to them!”Fans noticed Lyle’s dramatic transformation during a public appearance recently, prompting loads of positive comments online.While he continues to build his impressive online empire too.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesArsenal Fan TV has become one of the most popular fan-channels in English football and boasts an impressive 1.72MILLION subscribers on YouTube and millions more across other social media platforms.And Lyles isn’t the only recognisable face from football that has gushed about the benefits of the supplements.Myles Lewis-Skelly lost for words after finding out he has broken England recordFormer Liverpool, Real Madrid and England star Michael Owen has also endorsed the Oxford Natural products.In a clip discussing the supplements, Owen said: “Hey guys, I just want to say thanks to Oxford Natural Clinic. “Since I’ve been on their programme with Dr Andre, I’ve lost 15kg. Quite a transformation!”Micheal Owen has endorsed the supplements tooCredit: Alamy More

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      England regulars left fearing they may need summer transfer to win place in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad

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      SIX England hopefuls fear they may need to make a summer transfer to book their spot in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad.The former Chelsea boss started life in the Three Lions dug-out with successive Wembley wins in the past week.Six England stars are considering their future to become regulars under Thomas TuchelCredit: AlamyThe aces are all desperate to be on the plane for next year’s World CupCredit: ReutersEngland first beat Albania 2-0 on Thursday.And Tuchel’s men then cruised past Latvia 3-0 on Monday to begin their World Cup qualifying campaign with six points.The German manager made a series of big calls when deciding his squad, giving nods to the likes of exiled Ajax veteran Jordan Henderson and Arsenal teen sensation Myles Lewis-Skelly.But four stars who were not initially called up now reckon they may need to join new clubs to catch Tuchel’s eye.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLElsewhere, two players who did make the cut are also reportedly considering fresh starts to seal their World Cup spots.The Telegraph claims Manchester City misfit Jack Grealish is considering his options after a dismal season at the Etihad.The winger has started just six league games after being axed by Gareth Southgate for last summer’s Euros.And he has been “warned” by Tuchel to “take responsibility off the pitch” to get his career back on track.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSElsewhere, Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite is another mulling his options.The centre-back has been in fine form recently but still missed out on a spot to Newcastle’s uncapped 32-year-old Dan Burn.Roy Keane leaves Ian Wright laughing after ITV pundit’s joke about Thomas Tuchel following England’s win over Latvia Jack Grealish has started just six league matches for Man CityCredit: GettyEverton’s Jarrad Branthwaite missed out on a spot to 32-year-old Dan BurnCredit: GettyAston Villa’s Jacob Ramsey could be on the move after almost making the cut.He is yet to nail down a regular spot under Unai Emery, and could opt for first-team football elsewhere despite being a fan favourite.Finally, Morgan Gibbs-White is flying high with Nottingham Forest but was still left out of England’s squad.Jacob Ramsey is yet to nail down a starting spot at Aston VillaCredit: AlamyNottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White was initially left out of the squadCredit: AlamyHe was eventually called up when Cole Palmer withdrew through injury.But the playmaker still failed to make it onto the pitch against Latvia – having been axed completely from the Albania matchday squad.And he would reportedly consider joining a more established side to help make the plane next summer.Finally, the two stars who did make the squad but are still considering permanent transfers are Marcus Rashford and Aaron Ramsdale.Marcus Rashford hopes to get a permanent move away from Man UtdCredit: GettyAaron Ramsdale will push to leave all-but-relegated SouthamptonCredit: GettyManchester United winger Rashford is on loan at Aston Villla and has no future at the Theatre of Dreams.But despite a decent showing in the Midlands, his future at his loan side is not guaranteed.And Rashford is open to another club where he would be guaranteed minutes as a regular starter.Meanwhile, goalkeeper Ramsdale will push to leave Southampton with their relegation to the Championship all-but-confirmed.READ MORE SUN STORIESRamsdale will likely have to be playing in the Premier League to be considered as one of England’s three stoppers.But like the players above, he too craves nothing more than a solid spot in a club’s starting XI. More

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      Pep Guardiola brainwashed me at Man City – I realised I played football completely the wrong way

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      A FORMER Manchester City star has claimed Pep Guardiola “brainwashed” him into becoming a better footballer.Guardiola revolutionised the beautiful game with his tiki-taka style of football during his historic stint at Barcelona.Pep Guardiola took charge of Manchester City back in 2016Credit: GETTYThe Spaniard has guided City to six Premier League titles and one Champions LeagueCredit: GETTYFormer City defender Danilo has claimed Guardiola “brainwashed” him into becoming a better playerCredit: GETTYHe would somewhat implement his ethos when he took charge of City in the summer of 2016, although he’d have to adapt it for the physicality of the Premier League.Adapt it he would, so much so that City would win SIX of the last seven Premier League titles and the last four in a row.And former Sky Blues defender Danilo, who spent two seasons at the Etihad, is among the players whose games were transformed by the Catalan.The Flamengo star and Brazil skipper said of his former gaffer during an interview with The Guardian: “Pep Guardiola educates his players.READ MORE SPORTS NEWS“That’s the most important thing about his work. He makes all players think about football in the same way.”Time, space, movement, possession, taking care of the ball.“He makes you understand the spaces on the pitch like no other coach and he lives the game emotionally like no other coach.”I was brainwashed by Guardiola, but in a good way.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSDanilo reckons he’d be a much better player if he’d been managed by Pep Guardiola earlier in his careerCredit: REUTERSDanilo, 33, believes he would’ve been a far better player had he played under Guardiola earlier in his career.He said: “It was like I was at university. What I experienced with him allowed me to raise my level and keep that level to this day.Pep Guardiola admits ‘best team won’ as Real Madrid knock Man City out of Europe “It’s not that I was an idiot before I arrived at Manchester City but I realised that I played football in completely the wrong way.”If I had met him before, he would have made my life a lot easier. I’m so glad I was able to play under him and was able to learn from him.”The 2024/25 season has been City’s worst since Guardiola replaced Manuel Pellegrini at the Etihad helm.City are currently fifth in the table and a whopping 22 POINTS behind runaway table-toppers Liverpool.Danilo isn’t surprised by his former side’s slump, saying: “We have to remember that football is cyclical.“There are a lot of players who are now 33, 34 years old and have been at the top of their game for eight, nine, ten years.Pep Guardiola has endured a torrid season, with City currently 22 points behind LiverpolCredit: GETTY”This drop in performance is natural. You have to look at the mental aspect as well.”When I talk about age, it’s not even physical. It’s the experience of being under so much pressure for so many years, the pressure of winning and winning all the time.“When you lose, the feeling is that everything has gone wrong and you feel less valuable, incapable. It’s difficult to balance these feelings.”That’s why when you win, you only feel relief. READ MORE SUN STORIES”However, with age comes a better understanding and it is easier to reflect on some of the defeats and victories.”City will be back in action on Sunday, travelling to the Vitality Stadium to take on Bournemouth in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. More