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    David Beckham’s Inter Miami out of MLS play-offs in ‘biggest upset ever’ with Lionel Messi’s future thrown into doubt

    LIONEL MESSI’S Inter Miami saw their MLS season come to a devastating end following a shock loss to Atlanta United in the play-offs.Miami ended the regular season top of the Eastern Conference and with the best record and highest points total in MLS history to win the Supporters Shield.Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami are out of the MLS play-offs after a shocking lossCredit: GettyInter Miami were eliminated by Atlanta United, who ended Messi’s MLS seasonCredit: GettyDavid Beckham’s Inter Miami saw their title hopes go up in flamesCredit: APAtlanta were handed just a ten per cent chance of making the MLS Cup semi-finals after coming through the first round against Montreal FC and they will now face Orlando City in the final four.David Beckham’s team suffered a devastating 3-2 loss at the Chase Stadium where their titles hopes came crashing down.Miami opened the scoring on 17 minutes with Matias Rojas but Atlanta equalised only two minutes later with Jamal Thiare, who then completed a brace in the 21st minute.Messi equalised for Gerardo Martino’s side on 65 minutes but United sealed their historic triumph in the 76th minute with Bartosz Slisz’s winner.Read More on FootballThe host of Apple TV’s MLS 360 coverage Kevin Egan described this as the “biggest upset in MLS history”.Egan tweeted: “We’ve just witnessed easily the biggest upset in MLS history!”Atlanta United had a 10% chance of making the playoffs on Decision Day.”The lowest ranked team remaining just knocked Messi and Miami out on their own turf. What?!?!”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMartino then addressed Messi’s future at the club, with the star forward’s contract running out on December 31, 2025.And the ex-Barcelona manager confirmed the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s future is uncertain.David Beckham rewarded as Lionel Messi leads Inter Miami to second trophy by knocking reigning champions off their perch Martino said: “I actually don’t know how limited [Messi’s time in the MLS] is.”There is a question of time passing, but I would not dare to say that it is so short. “If you look at the context in which this began, it seems to me that the progress of the club is important.”The comparison of the last game of last season, back in October, with today’s third game in the play-offs and this bitterness that we all have for not having progressed, is clear that the club’s objectives have been modified and I think there is no reason for the club not to continue trying next year.”What happened this year, the bad and the good in general have been better than everything that happened last year and I would say even from the entire life of the club.”Miami, though, are set to compete in this summer’s controversial Club World Cup competition in the US after a questionable call from Fifa.Rival MLS club officials have accused Fifa of having no clear qualification criteria for Inter.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe world governing body pointed to Miami winning the Supporters Shield, awarded to the club who perform the best over the regular season, as the reason for their qualification.But MLS club owners claim they have jumped the gun simply to ensure that Messi is involved in the revamped 32-team tournament. More

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    Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard linked with return to former club as pressure piles on struggling Al-Ettifaq manager

    LIVERPOOL legend Steven Gerrard has been tipped for a stunning return to one of his former clubs amid his struggles in Saudi Arabia.Al-Ettifaq boss Gerrard, 44, has come under fire amid a disastrous start to the Saudi Pro League campaign that has seen his team tumble to 12th place after three wins and five losses in 10 games.Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has been tipped to return to RangersCredit: GettyGerrard’s ex-Liverpool team-mate Danny Murphy believes there is a path back to RangersCredit: The SunAccording to Al-Youm, club chiefs are considering sacking the ex-Rangers and Aston Villa boss amid the team’s poor form, which led to fans booing the England legend after Tuesday’s loss at Al-Qadsiah.But Gerrard’s former Liverpool team-mate Danny Murphy claims there is still a path for him to return to the Ibrox where he enjoyed the most success as manager after hanging up his boots in 2016.The former midfielder led Rangers to the Scottish Premiership during the 2020-21 campaign, which saw him finishing undefeated and beating arch-rivals Celtic twice in the league.The Gers have endured a rough start in the league under manager Philippe Clement this season as they are third in the table after six wins and three losses in 10 matches.Read More on FootballMurphy told Boylesports: “I think it would be hard to replicate what Steven Gerrard did at Rangers before because they’re struggling.”Their squad is inferior to Celtic and the gap has got much bigger since he left.”But he’s a determined man who wants to work hard and if he was to go back there and then win the league again and overcome Celtic again then it would be a huge achievement.”It’s hard to see him being back there but never say never.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSGerrard also worked as a coach for the Under-18 and Under-19s of his beloved Liverpool soon after retiring at LA Galaxy.The Reds are now enjoying immense success under Arne Slot, despite losing legendary manager Jurgen Klopp after a glittering nine-year reign.Steven Gerrard mercilessly BOOED by Al-Ettifaq fans after losing local derby with Liverpool legend on brink of sackVilla, where Gerrard also worked and struggled immensely, are now thriving under Unai Emery.The Al-Ettifaq boss’ troubles piled up on Friday as his team suffered a 3-1 loss at Al-Hilal, which puts his lucrative £15.2million-a-year contract at risk.Steven Gerrard managerial recordHere’s how Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has fared since switching to management:RANGERS: 192 matches – 124 wins, 27 lossesASTON VILLA: 40 matches – 13 wins, 19 lossesAL-ETTIFAQ: 48 matches – 17 wins, 17 losses More

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    Roberto De Zerbi ‘showed Marseille side his Man Utd job offer and revealed why he chose them instead’ in crazy team-talk

    ROBERTO De Zerbi showed his Marseille players his Manchester United job offer in an unbelievable team-talk, according to reports.The former Brighton boss, 45, was linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer but left for France before United handed Erik ten Hag a contract extension.Roberto De Zerbi reportedly showed his Marseille players his Man Utd job offer in a team-talkCredit: ReutersDe Zerbi was being considered as a replacement for Erik ten Hag this summerCredit: The TimesMan Utd have since sacked Ten Hag with new boss Ruben Amorim set to take charge tomorrow.But a report from L’Equipe would suggest that Amorim may not have been their first choice for the job with De Zerbi receiving a contract offer from the Red Devils in the summer.The French outlet have claimed that, prior to Marseille’s first game of the season, De Zerbi got out a projector to show his new players his contract offer from Man Utd.Reportedly telling the squad: “This is where I could have been, but I put my passion before money. I came to Marseille for the passion.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLIt clearly worked as Marseille battered State Brest 5-1 away from home to start their campaign.However, the ex-Seagulls gaffer has seen his Marseille team struggle in recent weeks, winning just two of their last six games in all competitions.And after falling NINE points behind league leaders PSG in the Ligue 1 standings, De Zerbi may have resort to some crazy measures to try and get his team ticking once again.A 3-1 defeat to to Auxerre on Friday prompted another crazy rant by De Zerbi in his post-match press conference.Most read in FootballRoberto De Zerbi’s managerial careerA brief look at De Zerbi’s time as a manager…Darfo Boario (2013-2014)Games: 22Wins: 5Win percentage: 22.7%Foggia (2014-2016)Games: 90Wins: 48Win percentage: 53.3%Palermo (2016)Games: 13Wins: 1Win percentage: 7.7%Benevento (2017-2018)Games: 29Wins: 6Win percentage: 20.6%Sassuolo (2018-2021)Games: 120Wins: 43Win percentage: 35.8%Shakhtar Donetsk (2021-2022)Games: 30Wins: 20Win percentage: 66.6%Brighton (2022-2024)Games: 89Wins: 38Win percentage: 42.7%Marseille (2024-present)Games: 11Wins: 6Win percentage: 54.5%FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe tactician threatened to quit after reportedly fuming that his players had “humiliated” him and the club in front of their own fans in a changing room dressing down.Speaking in his press conference, he said: “If I’m the problem, I’m ready to leave. Ruud van Nistelrooy impressed by Amad Diallo after Man Utd end European drought “I’ll leave without the money, I don’t care about all the rest.”I came to Marseille for the Velodrome, to play at the Velodrome. And I can’t get the players to give here what I see in training and in away games. It’s my fault, it’s my responsibility.”Playing at the Velodrome is a privilege. I want to be able to pass on to the people who work with me what I think about football. And I can’t do that.”De Zerbi’s current contract runs until June 2027.De Zerbi’s Marseille side have been struggling in recent weeksCredit: Getty More

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    We live by Chelsea training ground – we HATE their ‘obscene’ plan to ‘take over’ our tiny village & ruin our way of life

    RESIDENTS living near Chelsea’s training ground have voiced their strong opposition to “obscene” expansion plans.The club asked for permission to build a boutique housing estate in Stoke D’Abernon, Surrey – but those plans have now been rejected by the council.Chelsea Football Club’s plans to demolish farm buildings (pictured) on a stable yard in Surrey have been terminated by the local councilCredit: Gary StoneCleaning boss Sally Judd was among the local residents to come out against the club’s expansion over recent yearsCredit: Gary StoneChelsea had planned to expand around their training ground in CobhamCredit: GettyLocals feared the development would see their house prices soar, trigger traffic chaos and ruin their leafy suburb.Chelsea have no current official plans to expand the ground – but that hasn’t stopped residents from worrying.Another local amenity is threatened for the benefit of Chelsea Football clubAnonymous resident Local Angela Johnstone, 65, said: “The knock on effect of all of it isn’t good.”They take us as a job lot. Everything in this area goes up accordingly, they all think we are married to Chelsea footballers and we are not.Read more Football News”They think we are being paid megabucks, the ordinary person feels a bit left out. The traffic is already horrendous.”We are trying to keep housing in this area down because the traffic is already horrendous. You need to ask Elmbridge Borough Council what they class as affordable housing, who they think can afford their affordable housing because it is still extortionate.”Neither of my sons would have a hope in buying anywhere around here. The youngsters are moving out because the area is getting too expensive for them.”The application, put forward in November 2022 and terminated by Elmbridge Borough Council, was for six new homes – a one bed, two bed, three three beds and one four bed home on the other side of Stoke Road to the training ground.Most read in FootballFour “unsightly” low-rise stables would need to have been demolished and three Grade II listed Victorian-era barns gutted and “sensitively” turned into homes, a Planning, Design and Access Statement said. Jamie Carragher says ‘players should stop joining Chelsea’ and ‘sign a four-year deal at a proper club’ in stunning rantSome locals were fearful about the lack of affordable housing in the area – with homes in the village averaging a staggering £1,247,917, according to figures from RightMove.Sally Judd, who works at a laundrette on Cobham High Street, said: “The village has gone downhill. People have bought their houses on the council estates but being Cobham, the pricing of the houses have gone up so much.”My daughter is 33 years old and still lives with me, with a child, in a two bed flat. She can’t even get on the council housing list.”The price of everything in Cobham has gone up now. They keep saying about affordable housing but nothing is affordable around here.”Another resident fumed “another local amenity is threatened for the benefit of Chelsea Football club” in one of dozens of objections to the homes.Mr McWaed was concerned about traffic in the area as a result of the expansionCredit: Gary StoneChelsea have no current official plans to expand the ground – but that hasn’t stopped residents from worryingCredit: Gary StoneLocal Angela Johnstone worried about affordable prices and more traffic congestionCredit: Gary StoneElmbridge Borough Council rejected the plans, submitted in November 2022Credit: Gary StoneMaureen Christmas, 75, who lives a street over from the Chelsea training ground, added: “There are so many houses around here now, it’s so built up.”I’ve noticed how crowded the roads are here. If it’s these great big mansions that only millionaires can afford to live in, no, I’m absolutely against it.”The roads are jammed with cars coming too and from, the roads are covered with parked cars.”Mr McWaed, who’s lived in Cobham for decades, was also worried about traffic chaos.Chelsea cleared by Premier League after controversial £76.5m sale of two hotels to sister companyIN September, Chelsea was cleared by the Premier League following an investigation into the sale of two hotels to help them comply with profit and sustainability rules.Company accounts in April showed that the Millennium and Copthorne hotels next to Stamford Bridge had been sold for £76.5million.Clubs are allowed to lose up to £105m over a three-year period under PSR rules.The sales of the hotels helped the Blues avoid a potential loss of £166.4m loss, instead reducing the figure to an allowable £89.9m for the financial year.The hotels changed hands from Chelsea FC Holdings Ltd to BlueCo 22 Properties Ltd, both companies under the control of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital ownership.However, the sales have now been ratified by the Premier League under a “fair market valuation” relating to the league’s associated-party transaction rule.It is unclear whether the £76.5m figure has changed.Chelsea maintained confidence that they were within compliance of PSR rules, with certain costs for infrastructure, academy and women’s football allowed to be deducted.Such transactions are not allowed in Uefa competitions or the English Football League, who closed the loophole in 2021.He explained the area was already struggling with congestion due to a combination of major roadworks on the M25, A3 and more newbuilds across Surrey.’THIS TOWN CENTRE IS THRIVING’Despite backlash over Chelsea’s now rejected plans, not all locals were opposed to the idea of expansion.Russell Benzies, 65, hailed the club and claimed it had a positive impact on Cobham.He added: “Since Chelsea has moved in, I can’t see any damage they have done. Cobham employs 150 people.”Chelsea are developing the area, of course, if you live around the ground, you probably aren’t going to be happy, you’ll be a bit worried.”In the 25 years I have lived here there has been a lot of development and obviously you’re concerned, the build-up of traffic, but this town centre is thriving. “There’s lots of things that impact the house prices here more than Chelsea.”Meanwhile, Chelsea believed the now axed development would “make a valuable contribution of housing” to the area.The west London side, whose last trophy was the Champions League in 2021, was acquired by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital in May 2022.When contacted by The Sun for comment, a spokesperson for Elmbridge Borough Council reiterated its reasons for terminating the stable yard plans.They said: “It was ‘disposed of’. This means no decision was made and it is taken off the planning register.”This is where an application has been with the council for a long period without being determined and is beyond the period where the application can be appealed for non-determination.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The applicant was given a number of opportunities to address issues with the application with no response.”Chelsea Football Club and Clearlake Capital declined to comment.Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly is thought to be at the forefront of the development plansCredit: AlamyThese farm buildings were due to be demolished in order to build a new housing estateCredit: Gary StoneLocals feared traffic chaos if the plans had gone aheadCredit: Gary StoneLife near Chelsea’s Surrey training groundsTHOSE living near Chelsea FC’s Surrey training grounds, dubbed the “Beverly Hills of Britain”, have told how they rub shoulders with Premier League footballers and Hollywood actors.Homeowners in the sleepy villages of Oxshott and Cobham spot stars, flanked by 24/7 security, on the daily.Peter Crouch, Jorginho and Raheem Sterling are just some of the players calling the Surrey area home, along with former Hollywood veterans Stanley Tucci and Antonio Banderas.Tree lined roads and protective gates give privacy to the mansions worth millions of pounds.Oxshott has just a few shops, including a luxury coffee house and a fancy butchers – with owners spotting blacked-out Bentleys and Jaguars cruising past.In nearby Cobham, the high street is filled with pilates studios and juice bars.Local butcher Joe Harrington, 21, who grew up in the area, regularly sees flash cars and recognisable faces from behind the counter.He said: “We see a lot of football players hanging about, and their friends and family.”We get a couple in the shop, but people usually pop in on their behalf, we don’t see them directly every time.”There are a few big names and faces hanging about, someone came in the other day who had seen Raheem Sterling at the petrol station down there.”You see a load of faces pulling out of the training ground over the years, I remember seeing Jorginho pull out in a red Ferrari.”It’s full of them round here, everyone’s got big four by fours, Bentleys, any BMWs, Audis, Jaguars.”I did some landscaping jobs and there are some massive houses.”Many Chelsea players are regulars at Cobham restaurant Grappelli, an Italian in the centre of the village.Manager Eddie Alves, 36, said Jorginho came particularly often, adding: “We even became good friends, we went out together, my kids are friends with his kids, he is an amazing guy.”He even did a charity event here with us, celebrated his birthday here with us, so I love all of them, but I have a special attention for Jorginho.”He is an unbelievable guy, he is number 1 for me.”He said Ashley Cole, John Terry and Robert Sanchez – as well as former players Roberto di Matteo, Jimmy Hasselbank, Glen Johnson and Peter Crouch – also dined there a lot. 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    New Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim drops massive hint at summer transfer raid on Sporting, admitting ‘they are good players’

    INCOMING Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has dropped a huge hint that he might carry out a summer transfer raid on Sporting Lisbon.Amorim is set to begin work as United boss tomorrow, calling time on his four-and-a-half-year spell with Portuguese giants Sporting.Ruben Amorim has hinted that he could raid Sporting Lisbon for signings in the summerCredit: PAThe 39-year-old has enjoyed success with Sporting since taking over in 2020, winning two league titles and two Portuguese League Cups.And he’s done so with an incredible squad that has helped him gain an advantage over the opposition, alongside his tactical skillset.But it looks as though Amorim could be ready to rip that squad apart and cherry pick the best part to lure to the Theatre of Dreams.Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of his final game in charge of Sporting tonight, Amorim hinted that he could try and sign some of the current crop at the José Alvalade Stadium.READ MORE ON MAN UTDRuling out a short-term raid, he said: “In January I’m not going to get anyone from Sporting. That’s what I said.”He then opened the door for potential business in the summer.He added: “In the summer I don’t know what I’m going to do. The main point is to hold on until the summer. “Second point, you can see that Sporting players are great players. Let’s see what will happen.”Most read in FootballAmorim could be keen on bringing star striker Viktor Gyokeres to Man UtdCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSporting is stacked with top talent that could be of use to a struggling Man Utd side.The Red Devils are crying out for a goalscorer and will certainly have a keen eye on Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres.Watch Ruben Amorim celebrate with guard of honour as Sporting Lisbon boss narrowly avoids nasty bumps accidentThe former Brighton and Coventry striker has scored an unfathomable 66 goals in 67 appearances since his arrival in Portugal.While he has already found the back of the net 23 times in 17 games this term – including a hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League.Other players who have been tipped to make the switch include ball-playing centre-back Goncalo Inacio and holding midfielder Morten Hjulmand.Amorim will already be reuniting with one of his former players at Old Trafford.Summer arrival Manuel Ugarte played under Amorim 85 times and was a huge part of Sporting’s team during his spell with the club.Amorim will be reunited with Manuel UgarteCredit: AlamyThree Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More

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    Former Chelsea star to join Thomas Tuchel’s team at England as former Blues boss continues raid on old club

    THOMAS TUCHEL has further pillaged former club Chelsea as he prepares to take charge of England.The FA officially announced the out-of-work German as Gareth Southgate’s successor in October.Thomas Tuchel was appointed as Gareth Southgate’s successor in OctoberCredit: PAThe 51-year-old takes charge of the Three Lions on January 1 and is currently finalising his coaching teamCredit: REUTERSThe German is set to raid former club Chelsea for the services of goalkeeping coach HilarioCredit: REXHilario has been part of Chelsea’s coaching staff for eight yearsCredit: REXBut he won’t take charge of the Three Lions – who he’s signed an 18-month deal with – until January 1.Tuchel, 51, is using the time off to get his backroom team in place.And SunSport can reveal he’s set to add Chelsea’s goalkeeping coach Henrique Hilario to his team.Multiple sources have confirmed Tuchel has persuaded the former Blues stopper to swap club coaching for international football.READ MORE ON TUCHELHilario has been part of Chelsea’s coaching team for eight years after being given a job by former boss Antonio Conte.And SunSport understands the FA will make a formal approach for the 49-year-old, who made 39 appearances for the Blues, after today’s London derby with Arsenal.Hilario won’t be the only asset Tuchel has plundered from Chelsea, who he guided to Champions League glory in May 2021.He’s also convinced Chelsea’s current performance analyst James Melbourne to join him.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSouthgate vs Tuchel records comparedTHOMAS TUCHELAugsburg II 2007-2008P34 W 20 D8 L6 Win percentage: 58.82%Mainz 05 2009-2014P184 W72 D46 L66 Win percentage: 39.13%Borussia Dortmund 2015-2017P107 W67 D23 L17 Win percentage: 62.62%Honours: DFB Pokal Paris Saint Germain 2018-2020P127 W95 D13 L16 Win percentage: 74.8%Honours: Ligue 1 X2, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, Trophee des Champions x2Chelsea 2021-2022P100 W60 D24 L16 Win percentage: 60%Honours: Champions League, Super Cup, Club World CupBayern Munich 2023-2024P61 W37 D8 L16 Win percentage: 60.66%Honours: BundesligaGARETH SOUTHGATEMiddlesbrough 2006-2009P151 W54 D43 Win percentage: 35.76%England U21 2013-2016P37 W27 D5 L5 Win percentage: 72.97%Honours: Toulon tournamentEngland 2016-2024P102 W61 D24 L17 Win percentage: 59.8%Honours: Euros runners up, 2020, 2024Hilario and Melbourne will be welcomed by a familiar face in former Blues coach Anthony Barry, who Tuchel has installed as his No2.Tuchel is champing at the bit to get started with the Three Lions, saying upon his appointment: “I’m obviously very excited and honoured to be the new head coach of England.Thomas Tuchel England Press Conference“I want to take the opportunity to thank the FA for their trust and I am very excited to start this journey in January with a very special and exciting group of players to make our dream come true in America.“I understood very quickly that is it is a big job, I think always the job you are in is the biggest job.”And it makes no sense to compare but it feels big and feels like a privilege.”He added: “I’m sorry, I have a German passport.”All of those supporters maybe [have] felt my passion for the English Premier League and the country and how I love to live and work here.“Hopefully I can convince them and show them and prove to them I am proud to be an English manager and do everything to show respect to this role and this country and the target for the next 18 months.”Former Chelsea assistant coach Anthony Barry will be part of Thomas Tuchel’s teamCredit: GETTY More

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    Why can’t Raheem Sterling play for Arsenal against Chelsea?

    ARSENAL make the short trip to Stamford Bridge to take on London rivals Chelsea in a blockbuster Super Sunday clash.The Gunners are in need of a huge win after claiming just one point from their last three games in the Premier League.Arsenal were beaten 1-0 away at Newcastle last SaturdayCredit: GettyMikel Arteta’s men dropped out of the top-4 after last Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle at St James’ Park.The Spaniard would have hoped for a more favourable fixture this weekend as only Manchester City have beaten Chelsea at Stamford Bridge this season.Arteta will also have fewer attacking options to choose from, with Raheem Sterling unable to feature for the Gunners in West London.Why can’t Raheem Sterling play for Arsenal against Chelsea?Raheem Sterling will be unable to feature for Arsenal against Chelsea this weekend due to the terms of his Deadline Day move to the Emirates.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe winger joined the Gunners on a season-long loan after falling out-of-favour with new Blues boss Enzo Maresca.Due to the move being a temporary one, Sterling will not be eligible to face his parent side, according to Premier League rules.This also rules the 29-year-old out of the return fixture between the two rivals at the Emirates on March 15, 2025.Since his arrival, Sterling has struggled for a consistent run in the Arsenal side, having played just 123 minutes in the Premier League this season.Most read in FootballHowever, the winger is off the mark for his new club, scoring in the 5-1 Carabao Cup win over Bolton in September.How to watch Chelsea vs ArsenalChelsea vs Arsenal will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event/Premier League.You can live stream the match via the NOW/Sky Sports app.Alternatively, SunSport will provide minute-by-minute coverage of the huge clash at Stamford Bridge. More

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    Former Premier League star announces shock retirement aged 37 as fans hail ‘real legend’

    A FORMER Premier League icon has announced his retirement from professional football.Ex-Liverpool cult hero Ryan Babel has hung up his boots at the age of 37.Former Liverpool star Ryan Babel has retired from professional footballCredit: PA:Empics SportThe cult hero has played for some of Europe’s top clubsCredit: GettyThe 69-time Netherlands international has called it quits after playing his last professional game for Turkish side Eyuspor back in 2023.Taking to social media, Babel announced that it was time to bring an end to his career that has seen him play for the likes of Liverpool, Galatasaray and Ajax. He wrote: “As I look back on my career it feels surreal to think about how far I have come. “From my early days at Ajax to playing for some of the biggest clubs in Europe, it’s been a journey full of unforgettable moments.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I’ve been fortunate enough to play with and against some of the best players in the world and I have learned and grown in ways I never imagined.”Football has been more than just a job, it’s been a way of life: the discipline, the sacrifice, the passion, the glory and even the pain have all played a part in my development both on and off the field.”I am filled with gratitude for this amazing journey I have had. Football gave me everything I dreamed of and so much more. “Thank you to all my teammates, coaches, fans and even the media who have been part of this incredible adventure. This game will forever be in my heart. Thank you.”Most read in FootballBabel enjoyed three spells with Ajax after graduating from the club’s academyCredit: GettyThe Dutchman represented his nation 69 timesCredit: ReutersRyan Babel’s careerA brief look into an Ryan Babel’s career…CLUB CAREER2004 – 2007: Ajax2007 – 2011: Liverpool2011 – 2012: Hoffenheim2012 – 2013: Ajax2013 – 2015: Kasimpasa2015 – 2016: Al-Ain2016 – 2017: Deportivo La Coruna2017 – 2019: Besiktas2019: Fulham2019 – 2022: Galatasaray2020: Ajax (loan)2022 – 2023: EyupsporINTERNATIONAL CAREERCaps: 69Goals: 10Assists: 9Debut: March 26, 2005 vs RomaniaFinal game: March 30, 2021 vs Gibraltar FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBabel managed 146 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 22 times and registering 18 assists.While he also played 47 Champions League games for the Reds, Ajax, Besiktas and Galatasaray – scoring nine times in Europe’s elite competition.Steven Gerrard mercilessly BOOED by Al-Ettifaq fans after losing local derby with Liverpool legend on brink of sackBabel also had a brief spell at Fulham during the latter stages of his career, playing under both Claudio Ranieri and Scott Parker.On the International stage, Babel represented the Netherlands 69 times, making the squad for both the 2006 and 2010 World Cups.The fan favourite retires having won two Eredivisie titles, two Dutch cups, one Turkish league title and one Turkish super cup.Fans have hailed the hero online following his announcement. One wrote: “Congratulations on an amazing career!”While another added: “Literally one of the best wingers I saw play for Liverpool”.And a third labelled Babel as a “real legend”.Babel returned to the Premier League with Fulham in 2019Credit: Getty Images – Getty More