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    Rodrygo ‘to LEAVE Real Madrid if transfer offer arrives’ in boost to Premier League sides

    REAL MADRID star Rodrygo could quit the Bernabeu this summer if a big-money bid lands from the Premier League.The 20-time Brazil international is ready to pack his bags and seek a new challenge, according to reports in the Spanish media.Rodrygo has been brilliant since arriving at Madrid in 2018Credit: APThe arrival of Mbappe has led to a reduced role for RodrygoCredit: RexRodrygo was the hero as Madrid beat Manchester City in 2022Credit: GettyHe has been brilliant for Madrid since signing from Santos for £38million in 2018, helping them win the Spanish Super Cup, La Liga and the Champions League.Rodrygo was the hero in Madrid’s dramatic comeback against Manchester City in the Champions League semi-final in 2022. He came on midway through the second half and scored two late goals that stunned Pep Guardiola’s side and now, he could be playing in the Premier League next season.Real are believed to be looking for around £85million to let the Brazilian leave.REAM MORE FOOTBALL NEWSArsenal have been linked with a move, but it’s Manchester United who are reportedly leading the chase as they search for a statement signing for next season.And the links have gone down well with fans, who believe Rodrygo has all the makings of an Old Trafford great.One said: “Rodrygo would be our best signing in years.”Another declared: “He should come to United without any doubt.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKA third added: “Sign him, sign him, sign him.”And one fan claimed: “The ideal Marcus Rashford replacement.”Crocked Real Madrid star Dani Carvajal pulled away from Bukayo Saka after confronting Arsenal star at half-timeRodrygo has scored 13 goals this season, but the arrival of Kylian Mbappe has seen his role reduced, especially with Vinicius Junior untouchable on the left side of Madrid’s attack.Carlo Ancelotti’s side crashed out of the Champions League at the quarter final stage against Arsenal and the club is expected to make big changes this summer to get back on track. More

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    Barcelona ‘ready to grant Marcus Rashford’s transfer dream’ – but WON’T pay fee Aston Villa agreed with Man Utd

    MARCUS RASHFORD is a summer transfer target for Barcelona – but they’re not prepared to pay £40million.The Catalan giants are ready to grant the Manchester United forward his “dream move” to Spain. Marcus Rashford is a summer target for BarcelonaCredit: RexRashford, 27, is currently on loan at Aston Villa after falling out of favour under United boss Ruben Amorim.The England striker has netted 4 goals in 17 games since heading down the M6 in January. But his resurgence has been cut short by a niggling hamstring injury.The issue is not thought to require surgery but will end his season, with Rashford now set for talks with United over his future.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLVilla were given a £40m option to buy on Rashford when they signed him on loan four months ago.The iPaper now suggests Barcelona are ready to swoop in and offer the 27-year-old his “dream move”.But they will haggle over the fee and are “unwilling to pay the £40m price” agreed with Villa. Barcelona were interested in a loan deal for Rashford in January but struggled to accommodate his £325,000-a-week wages.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThe report indicates the forward would be “willing to take a pay cut” to move to LaLiga.And Rashford is desperate to play for a club in the Champions League next season. Gary Neville reveals fear with Liverpool to become most successful English team everA return to United looks less likely, with Amorim already sounding out replacements. Reports suggest personal terms have already been agreed with Wolves’ Matheus Cunha, who has a £62.5million release clause.United are also keen on Ipswich striker Liam Delap, who can leave the Tractor Boys for £30m after their relegation to the Championship. United gaffer Amorim is certain that he made the right decision in letting Rashford and £86m flop Antony leave on loan in January.Speaking last week, Amorim said: “We lack a lot of things in the team.“In January we lost, and you are talking about Rashford and Antony, we lost these players.Read More on The Sun”And we didn’t bring new ones, that was a risk. We are trying to do something more important.“But I think that there are things here that are more important than to score 10 more goals this season.” More

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    Antonio Rudiger slapped with SIX-GAME ban after Real Madrid star hurled objects at ref – but Bellingham’s red rescinded

    ANTONIO RUDIGER has been hit with a six-match ban for launching an object at the referee – but Jude Bellingham has had his red card rescinded. Real Madrid imploded and had three players sent off in Saturday night’s 3-2 Copa del Rey final defeat to El Clasico rivals Barcelona.Antonio Rudiger launched an ice pack at the refereeCredit: X @PremSportsTVA fuming Rudiger had to be held back from confronting the refCredit: X @PremSportsTVJude Bellingham has seen his red overturnedCredit: RexReal Madrid were unhappy with the appointment of Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea before the gameCredit: GettyThere were shocking scenes at the of the match after Kylian Mbappe was judged to have fouled Eric Garcia as Real Madrid staged a last attack.Tempers flared as the bench behind boss Carlo Ancelotti lost their cool and wildly protested.Rudiger, who had been subbed off, was the most incensed and he launched an ice pack at referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea.The ex-Chelsea centre-back then had to be restrained from confronting the official. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMeanwhile, Vinicius Junior, Lucas Vazquez and several coaches charged onto the pitch and gestured angrily towards the official.Rudiger and Vazquez were sent off at the time, with Bellingham also seeing red after the final whistle.The official’s report said the English midfielder “approached the referee aggressively” and needed “to be restrained by team-mates”.Rudiger has been slapped with a six-game ban as punishment and Vazquez will be suspended for two.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHowever, Bellingham has been let off after Real Madrid’s appeal was successful.They reportedly had video evidence that proved he was not “aggressive” to the ref.Real Madrid issue statement after making ref break down in tears and ‘threat to BOYCOTT Copa del Rey final vs Barcelona’Real Madrid were unhappy with the appointment of De Burgos Bengoetxea before the game, taking to their club TV channel to broadcast mistakes made by him and express that he was too inexperienced for a final.It led to the ref breaking down in tears in a pre-match press conference, saying: “When a child of yours goes to school and there are kids telling him that his father is a ‘thief’ and comes home crying, it’s totally messed up.”What I do is try to educate my son, to say that his father is honest, above all honest, who can make mistakes, like any sportsperson.It’s not right what we are going through, many colleagues, and not just in professional football, but also at grassroots level.”Everyone should reflect about where we want to go, about what we want from sport and from football.” More

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    Real Madrid ‘set to go all out for William Saliba transfer as Florentino Perez chooses Arsenal star over Huijsen’

    ARSENAL star William Saliba is Real Madrid’s top target to bolster their defence this summer.Saliba, 24, is considered by many as the best defender in the world following some stunning performances at the Gunners’ backline in the Premier League and Champions League.Real Madrid are prioritising a move for Arsenal star William SalibaReal prefer Saliba ahead of Bournemouth star Dean HuijsenAnd according to Marca, the centre-back is seen as the man to lead Real’s defence for years to come – especially after his impressive displays across both quarter-final encounters against them in Europe.So much so that the reigning Spanish and European champions’ president Florentino Perez is set to take it upon himself to make sure a deal is completed with the North Londoners.Saliba and Arsenal are fully aware of Los Blancos’ interest ahead of the summer transfer window.However, Real are currently moving in a “lukewarm and discreet” fashion due to their last-ditch effort to win LaLiga and the Premier League giants’ focus on winning their first ever Champions League.Read More on ArsenalHowever, the summer will be a completely different matter as Madrid are expected to go all out for the France international.Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen has also been strongly linked with a move to the Bernabeu.But Saliba has been an absolute priority ahead of Huijsen for Real chief scout Juni Calafat and Perez.Manchester City ace Manuel Akanji has also been targeted but that was mainly down to manager Carlo Ancelotti, who is heading out of the Bernabeu.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSNevertheless, a move to Real could also see Saliba playing with Premier League foes Alexis Mac Allister from Liverpool and Sandro Tonalli of Newcastle as the midfield pair is also being monitored.The pair are being targeted due to Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi’s preference of moving to Arsenal.Antonio Rudiger sent off for throwing ICE PACK at referee in Copa del Rey final as Real Madrid bench restrain fuming aceAnd that could be under Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso, who poses as the favourite to succeed Ancelotti in the dugout.The Italian tactician is highly likely to leave club football for the first time in his celebrated 30-year career, which has seen him becoming the only manager to win all five top leagues, and move to Brazil. More

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    Antonio Rudiger undergoes surgery and set for long lay-off – as Real Madrid ace faces 12-GAME ban for hurling ice at ref

    REAL MADRID star Antonio Rudiger may miss the rest of the season after having surgery on his knee.Rudiger, 32, has been a mainstay for Real since his move to the Santiago Bernabeu in 2022 from Chelsea.Real Madrid star Antonio Rudiger could be out for two months after knee surgeryCredit: Instagram / toniruedigerRudiger could miss the rest of the season for RealRudiger is facing a lengthy ban for his antics in the Copa del Rey finalThe German threw an ice pack at the refereeHowever, the centre-back had been dealing with “severe” knee pain the last seven months and underwent surgery.Real stated earlier today: “Rudiger has been successfully operated on today for a partial rupture in the external meniscus of his left leg.”The operation went well but the reigning Spanish and European champions may be without the Germany international for the rest of LaLiga’s schedule.According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Rudiger will be sidelined for “almost two months”.Read More on FootballThe ex-Chelsea star, though, was in high spirits after surgery as he posted a picture of himself on social media from his hospital bed with a big smile while giving the camera the thumbs up.The defender also suggested he will be back for the summer’s Club World Cup.Rudiger posted on Instagram: “After I have played more than seven month [sic] with severe pain, it was unfortunately unavoidable that I had to undergo a meniscus surgery. “Now I’m finally pain-free again, and the surgery was a success. Thanks to the medical team and especially @guidospiran. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”I want to be able to play again as soon as possible as two big tournaments with the Nations League and the Club World Cup are in front of me, but I have to look from week to week now and we will see. “I will do everything I can to make it happen. See you soon and take care of yourselves.”Antonio Rudiger instantly wins over Arsenal fans as former Chelsea defender pays Gunners stars huge complimentNevertheless, Rudiger still faces a lengthy lay-off regardless of how well his rehabilitation goes.That is because of his antics during Saturday’s Copa del Rey final that saw Real losing 3-2 to rivals Barcelona.A raging Rudiger launched an ice pack at referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea with just 20 seconds of extra-time remaining after Kylian Mbappe was judged to have fouled Eric Garcia in Madrid’s last attack.When the official came over to the bench to dish out red cards the German had to be held back from confronting him by Ferland Mendy and a member of staff.Rudiger’s public apologyThe ex-Roma star and Lucas Vazquez, both of whom were substituted earlier in the match, were sent off after the latter angrily sprinted on to the pitch.Some reports suggested Rudiger told the ref, “You’re a miscarriage’ and called him a “son of a wh***”.The centre-half issued a public apology after those shocking scenes, which also saw Jude Bellingham getting sent off after the final whistle for “approaching the referee aggressively” and needing “to be restrained by team-mates”.Nevertheless, the former Stuttgart star still faces a mammoth 12-match ban for his behaviour in the Spanish Cup final, which was criticised by Germany sporting director Rudi Voller.Rudiger posted on Sunday: “There’s definitely no excuse for my behaviour last night. I’m very sorry for that.Read More on The Sun”We played a very good game from the 2nd half on – After 111 minutes I was not able to help my team anymore and before the final whistle I did a mistake.”Sorry again to the referee and to everyone I have disappointed last night.” More

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    Carlo Ancelotti agrees next job as Real Madrid set to ‘part ways nicely’ with former Chelsea boss

    CARLO ANCELOTTI has already lined up a new job as he prepares to exit Real Madrid.The former Chelsea boss, 65, looks all set to leave the Bernabeu at the end of the season. Carlo Ancelotti has already made plans for his next job after Real MadridCredit: RexThe Italian is reportedly set to join up with Brazil for the World CupCredit: GettyAncelotti is said to have already told senior figures in the dressing room of his decision to depart. The 65-year-old won the Champions League last season but saw his side crash out to Arsenal earlier this month. And now he is preparing to go into international management for the first time.Ancelotti has reportedly reached an agreement in principle with Brazil to become head coach for the 2026 World Cup.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLTransfer guru Fabrizio Romano claims the deal will be “valid from June, NOT after the Club World Cup”.It leads the way for Madrid and Ancelotti to “part ways nicely” after four years. Brazil is the most successful nation ever to play in the World Cup.But they have been knocked out in the quarter-final stage in four of the last five tournaments.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAnd they haven’t won the trophy since 2002. Ancelotti currently has a contract at the Bernabeu running until the summer of 2026.Carlo Ancelotti shows his disappointment as Real Madrid crashes out of Champions League to Arsenal Real chief Florentino Perez will likely have to appoint an interim boss for this summer’s revamped Club World Cup in the USA.Director of Football Santi Solari is said to be best placed for the role.But other reports suggest Madrid could approach number one target Xabi Alonso before the tournament begins. Ancelotti has enjoyed two spells in the Spanish capital, originally taking charge in 2013.Over the course of his illustrious career, he’s won five Champions League trophies.At the Bernabeu, he has lifted three LaLiga titles and two Copa del Reys, along with Big Ears three times.La Gazzetta dello Sport claimed earlier this month AC Milan had contacted the Italian over a return to the San Siro.Read More on The SunAncelotti won the Serie A and Champions League titles twice with the Rossoneri as manager between 2001 and 2009.While AS Roma were also interested in Ancelotti to replace Premier League title winner Claudio Ranieri. More

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    Carlo Ancelotti ‘to leave Real Madrid for Brazil and won’t even stay in charge for Club World Cup’

    CARLO ANCELOTTI will leave Real Madrid BEFORE the Club World Cup starts, according to reports.And he is said to have already told senior figures in the dressing room of his decision to leave.Carlo Ancelotti is set to leave Real Madrid and take charge of BrazilCredit: GettyCarlo Ancelotti is under immense pressure after seeing Real Madrid crash out of the Champions League and lose the Copa del Rey final to Barcelona.The Athletic report that the legendary boss will take charge of the Brazilian national team.It is understood he will sign an initial one-year deal to the end of the 2026 World Cup and start his role in June.However, that timeline would mean Ancelotti will leave Los Blancos BEFORE the Club World Cup starts.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 65-year-old has a contract at the Bernabeu running until the summer of 2026.But poor results this season have led to intense pressure on his position.The decision means Real chiefs Florentino Perez and Co may need to appoint an interim manager to take charge of the newly-formatted summer tournament being held in the USA.Director of Football, Santi Solari is said to be best placed for the role, unless they immediately appoint number one target Xabi Alonso.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThere is also speculation that Los Blancos could make a left-field move for Jurgen Klopp.Meanwhile, Ancelotti will not have the support of his son, Davide, when he joins up with the Brazil national team.Carlo Ancelotti shows his disappointment as Real Madrid crashes out of Champions League to Arsenal That is because the report adds that Davide is set to move into his own career of becoming a head coach.He will only reunite with his father as his assistant if he does not receive a suitable offer.Speaking about the rumours linking him to Brazil after the heated Copa del Rey defeat to Barcelona, Ancelotti said: “I might stay, I might leave. “This is an issue to deal with in a few weeks from now. Not today.”Ancelotti joined Real for the second time in 2021, and has won LaLiga twice, the Champions League twice, the Uefa Super Cup twice and the Copa del Rey.Carlo Ancelotti has now won 28 trophies More

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    Barcelona 3 Real Madrid 2 (AET): Kounde bags extra-time winner as Barca survive VAR controversy to claim Copa del Rey

    JULES KOUNDE outshone fellow Frenchman Kylian Mbappe as Barcelona sealed a historic Copa del Rey win over rivals Real Madrid. The match was played following an extraordinary refereeing row, with Madrid forced to deny they would boycott the fixture. Jules Kounde scored a brilliant winner to secure the Copa del Rey for BarcelonaCredit: APLamine Yamal and Co led early in the first half through PedriCredit: ReutersBut Kylian Mbappe turned the game on its head with a brilliant freekickCredit: APDespite the Frenchman’s heroics, it was his fellow countryman Kounde who stole the showCredit: APThe full-back’s late strike came with the game seemingly destined for penaltiesCredit: APLos Blancos trailed early in the contest following a strike from Pedri at Seville’s Estadio La Cartuja. But after the break, Madrid stormed back thanks to some inspiration from Mbappe.The French talisman turned the game on its head with his first-ever career free-kick goal. The 22-year-old took aim from just outside the area after being chopped down by Frenkie De Jong.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLMbappe unleashed a powerful, low, right-footed free-kick which flew in off the post.And just minutes later, Aurelien Tchouameni headed in to put Madrid on the cusp of their 21st Copa del Rey title.Carlo Ancelotti’s men made it to within five minutes of the whistle before they were pegged back by Ferran Torres.The ex-Man City star was sent clear and rounded keeper Thibault Courtois to level things up.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBarca thought they had won it late in stoppage time as Raphinha went down under a challenge from Asencio.Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea initially gave the spot-kick, only to book the Brazilian for simulation after a VAR review.Barcelona coach SMASHES IPAD in fury as he appeals for penalty in La Liga clashDespite the time ticking past midnight in Spain, the game headed into an energy-sapping extra time.And as time ticked towards penalties, it was Arsenal-target Kounde who proved to be the Barca hero. He intercepted a rare loose pass from Luka Modric on the edge of the box, thundering a low strike past Courtois and sparking jubilant scenes in the Barca end.The goal sealed the Catalan giants’ 32nd success in the competition and their first since 2021.Saturday’s final had been dogged by reports before kick-off that Madrid would boycott the spectacle. Referee Bengoetxea broke down in tears during an extraordinary press conference on Thursday.The Spanish official tearfully responded to a video by Real’s in-house TV channel RMTV.The video highlighted decisions that had gone against Real, which the club believe to have been incorrect.Real Madrid later responded to the rumours, writing in a statement: “Our team has never considered giving up playing tomorrow’s final. Read More on The Sun”Our club understands that the unfortunate and inappropriate statements made 24 hours before the final by the referees appointed for this match cannot taint a sporting event of global significance which will be watched by hundreds of millions of people. “We also express our respect for all the fans who are planning to travel to Seville, and for all those already in the Andalusian capital.” More