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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

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    Sir Alex Ferguson sacrificed values to sign deadly Van Persie and Chelsea will win nothing until they make similar move

    IT was a signing that went against his entire transfer ethos — yet was arguably  the biggest no-brainer of the 105 he made at Old Trafford.Sir Alex Ferguson was never scared to splash cash as he built, strengthened or restructured his all-conquering, title-winning teams.Chelsea and boss Enzo Maresca must abandon their principles if they want to win proper trophiesCredit: PASir Alex Ferguson sacrificed his values to sign Robin van Persie but instantly won the titleCredit: GettyYet as a shrewd old Scot, value for money was also a prime factor.Very rarely did a new face arrive at Manchester United without a potential sell-on fee and the chance to recoup losses if it didn’t work out.This one, though, was different. If it went wrong, there would be no move-him-on safety net.Only Sir Alex knew it wouldn’t go wrong — and Sir Alex wasn’t usually wrong.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSo when, in the summer of 2012, Arsenal agreed to sell Robin van Persie, he didn’t pause for breath, even with a £24million price tag.That fee may be a drop in the ocean now but back then it was huge for a player nearing 30. Yet to Fergie it was a bargain.Three months earlier, when THAT Aguerooooo goal meant Manchester City were champions by the  narrowest of margins, Sir Alex had vowed never to lose the title on goal difference again.And with Van Persie as the new attacking spearhead, there was never a chance of it. United were champions by 11 points.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe crown was back at Old Trafford, their Dutch striker topped the scoring charts and Fergie headed into retirement with a 13th Premier League title in the bag,Van Persie’s goals sealed no fewer than 11 United wins that season. But the manager always did know the difference a proven big-game goalscorer can make.How Ruud van Nistelrooy’s ‘donut solution’ kicked off Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd revolution earlyStars like Cole Palmer are great but should not be relied upon to score like a proper strikerCredit: GettyAn assassin-eyed striker who — even if they didn’t end the season as the Prem’s top marksman — would get you over the line when the stakes were highest, the competition fiercest.Most champion teams over the years have had that one man they can rely on. Didier Drogba at Chelsea, Alan Shearer at Blackburn, Jamie Vardy in that astonishing Leicester triumph.Liverpool had Mo Salah AND Sadio Mane when they won the Prem. For two years Erling Haaland has banged them in for fun at City.Just like Aguero back in 2012 — only third highest over the season, but the saviour when it mattered most. Never more than on the most dramatic final day ever.Very rarely do you lift silver without a striker of pure gold.It’s why they cost so much. It’s why the best teams always have at least one.And also why it’s so remarkable that, despite splashing out more than £1billion, there is still a glaring gap in the Chelsea ranks.Of course, there are those who will point to Thursday’s 8-0 Europa Conference League rampage and wonder what all the fuss is about. And they will be showing their ignorance.It wasn’t Real Madrid or Barcelona who were put to the sword. Not a Manchester City or Liverpool. It was Noah. The Armenian equivalent of the Red Lion.For a relevant reference point, look to the 1-1 draw with United four days earlier. A game Chelsea dominated but could not kill off.Don’t buy that bull about a point at Old Trafford always being a decent result. It’s not when there’s such a chasm between the two sides as last weekend.Chelsea, as they have so often this season, played some marvellous stuff. But once again there was no one to put the ball in the net. United weren’t praying for the whistle.With a Drogba or Diego Costa in a blue shirt, they were breathing-space winners. Like City or Liverpool would have been. Like Spurs were with Dominic Solanke and Brennan Johnson.Match winners who can make the difference in any season. Yet this time, when it’s shaping up to be the most open in the Prem era, potential title winners as well.Yes, I know Chelsea have Cole Palmer, but he’s no attacking spearhead. He should be a great addition alongside your top dog.And who in the current squad would that be? Not Nicolas Jackson, who misses too many chances. Not Christopher Nkunku, who’s never fit for long enough.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn a season of so many contenders, the title could be won by one flash of goalscoring genius. Yet until Chelsea find that man, it won’t be them.Running riot against Noah is one thing but without a top   finisher, they’ll be sunk when it really matters. More

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    Ruud van Nistelrooy reveals exact moment he realised how big Man Utd are and says ‘that’s when I thought ‘ooh!”

    RUUD VAN NISTELROOY faces a crunch meeting tomorrow that may decide his Old Trafford future.And the Manchester United legend hopes his CV of handling life with two world giants of football will seal a place on Ruben Amorim’s new-look backroom team.Ruud van Nistelrooy has revealed when he realised how big the Man Utd job wasCredit: GettyVan Nistelrooy declared he wants to help bring back the glory daysCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdVan Nistelrooy’s four-game spell as interim chief ends after today’s home clash with Leicester, when he is set to return to the coaching role he held under Erik ten Hag.He signed a two-year deal this  summer to rejoin the club where he is a goalscoring legend but there has still been no contact from the incoming Portuguese head coach.It means the Dutch cult hero is only likely to discover if Amorim wants to keep him on when the SIXTH manager in the decade since Sir Alex Ferguson retired starts work in the morning.And Van Nistelrooy, 48, will head to United’s Carrington training ground expecting to pick up where he left off in the backroom set-up — unless Amorim decides otherwise.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLVan Nistelrooy certainly expects it to be business as usual tomorrow. He admitted: “As it is, definitely, so let’s wait and see how that goes.“I am calm to be fair, trusting in the process and believing the outcome will be good. I am here at Manchester United and that is my  focus.“Whenever the communication takes place, I will see. But obviously we also know what the time frames are, so I am aware.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhether Amorim is equally aware is doubtful and the spotlight of two title wins with Sporting Lisbon is nothing compared to the glare he will be under at Old Trafford.Van Nistelrooy knows all about that, after five years with United, followed by four with Real Madrid, when every move at both clubs was headline news.How Ruud van Nistelrooy’s ‘donut solution’ kicked off Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd revolution earlyHe remembers realising life would never be the same on a pre-season tour to the Far East after signing from Dutch club PSV Eindhoven — and the chaotic scenes that greeted him. Van Nistelrooy revealed: “For me it was when we landed in Bangkok in 2001 and I saw 100,000 people at the airport. That’s when I thought ‘ooh!’“That’s when you realise what it is on a worldwide scale and, at Real Madrid, it’s similar — wherever you go, the attention.“In Madrid, I experienced microscopic views and intensity, 20 pages in the papers every day, radio stations, social media…“When you go to manage or play for the biggest clubs that’s part of it. All over the world really, United is there.“But that’s also the challenge — to play and manage this club is a  huge responsibility and I see that as a challenge whoever is here.”Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for.It is a gauntlet and a glare which has seen the back of managerial giants like Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho in the post-Fergie era.Van Nistelrooy says the key to success is not a big-name reputation but raw talent and making sure the spotlight does not affect your focus on the job.He added: “It’s about the talent of a person that is the most important thing. “Big name, small name, call it anything you want… in the end it’s the person.“In the end, you learn to bring it down to focusing on the job,  performing as a player or coach and dealing with those circumstances.“That’s a big responsibility — we  are all aware of it, but it’s also a challenge.”READ MORE SUN STORIESVan Nistelrooy won one Premier League title in his Old Trafford days, before heading for Spain in 2006, and would love to help bring the glory days back to the red half of Manchester.He added: “The target is clear, to improve from where we are now. That will take time and hard work but that is the challenge for me.”Man Utd ratings vs PAOKSUNSPORT’S Phil Thomas reveals which Man Utd players would have impressed incoming boss Ruben Amorim against PAOK.ANDRE ONANA – 6One great tipover to keep out a Camara half-volley.But any other stops were pretty routine.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6Another solid, if unspectacular, display.An increasingly dependable presence by the week.VICTOR LINDELOF – 6Flat-footed once in the first half, but rarely flustered thereafter.Started a few attacks as well.JONNY EVANS – 6Wise old head at the back.But lucky to get away with going AWOL for one second half chance.DIOGO DALOT – 4Usually reliable, but shoddy with so much of what he did, and his delivery wasn’t great either.Surprising he wasn’t hooked earlier.CASEMIRO – 6Starting point for most of what United did going forward.Although that wasn’t a great deal to be honest.MANUEL UGARTE – 5Still far from the midfield general United hoped.Distribution disappointing too. No shock when subbed off.AMAD – 8 (STAR MAN)Livewire runs, impressive closing down, the crucial opening goal…and a stunning second.United’s best player by some distance.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Knocked some marvellous passes, always looking to create.At least someone was!ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 6Close with one header and a couple of decent runs, but all in all a quiet night.Hooked.RASMUS HOJLUND – 5One early header aside, little to work with apart from chasing hopeful balls.No clear sights of goal, either.SUBSRashford (for Garnacho 64) 6Eriksen (for Ugarte 64) 6Martinez (for Dalot 64) 6Mount (for Amad 81) 6Zirkzee (for Hojlund 90) N/A More