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      Barcelona will not be in new 105,000-capacity stadium on time ‘unless miracle occurs’ with Nou Camp still building site

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      BARCELONA will need a MIRACLE if they plan on returning to the Nou Camp on time this season, according to reports.The LaLiga giants had initially hoped to be opening their revamped ground THIS WEEKEND against Atletico Madrid.Barcelona’s chances of returning to the Nou Camp in March are practically zeroCredit: RexNew images of the redeveloped Nou Camp were revealed last monthThe construction plans are reportedly behind scheduleThe return could be as late as next SeptemberThat was pushed back to March 2025 as building work dragged on.But reports in Spain suggest Barcelona’s return to their £1.3billion renovated stadium could be delayed further.It is claimed the LaLiga leaders’ chances of returning to the Nou Camp in three months time are practically zero.And the stadium might not even be ready for the start of NEXT SEASON.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSSpanish outlet Marca say Barca’s board of directors have accepted the delay is inevitable. Construction work isn’t going at the desired pace, with the emergency exits plans and turf laying behind schedule.Barca have been careful not to give a definitive date, with Uefa rules stating that participants in the Champions League cannot play at different home grounds during a phase of the competition.Barcelona are second in the 36-team league phase with two games remaining, meaning it’s likely they won’t be in knockout action until March.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIf they were to finish ninth or lower, then that would mean a February play-off.However, both dates currently seem unrealistic with large parts of the ground still needing work.Legendary stadium looks unrecognisable as club reveal ‘insane’ CGI footage of the renovation plansThe Spanish giants moved out of the Nou Camp in May 2023, beginning the process of a major overhaul of the 67-year-old arena.The 99,000-seater was gutted and stripped back to its raw concrete form, before countless hours of hard work started to build it back up. Barca have been temporarily housed in the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium during the renovation.The club have taken off the entire top tier of the stadium as they rebuild the third tier to increase the capacity of the iconic ground.When fully completed, the stadium will house an impressive 105,000 fans – some 6,000 more than it was able to hold prior to the building work.They had been planning on returning to stadium halfway through the 2024-25 season, but they now looks unlikely.Barca intend to operate with just over 60 per cent capacity when they move back in.Work began in May 2023The new stadium will be sponsored by SpotifyThe Nou Camp look incredible when the work is completeOver £1.3bn has been splashed on the stadium and the surrounding areaInitially, it was hoped that Hansi Flick’s men could sport the pitch in November for the club’s 125th anniversary.But the return could now be as late as next September – which would be the third push back.It will be the largest and most innovative sports complex in the heart of a European city.The modernised Nou Camp – which will be sponsored by Spotify – is set to have a number of new bars and VIP areas.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt will also have the largest roof of any stadium in Europe, with new images showing three huge screens hanging over the pitch.The concourse and the press facilities are among the other areas to be renovated. More

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      Barcelona’s £50million signing Dani Olmo could be BANNED from playing for club and forced to leave in free transfer

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      DANI OLMO is set to be banned from playing for Barcelona — which could see him leave on a free transfer.Olmo, 26, only joined the Spanish giants in August in a £50million deal from RB Leipzig.Dani Olmo could be banned from playing for Barcelona, which would see him leave on a free transferCredit: RexThe La Masia graduate was seen as a major coup for Barcelona following his star turn for winners Spain at Euro 2024.However, Olmo was unable to be registered by his new club due to their ongoing financial issues.And the playmaker was forced to miss Barcelona’s first two matches of the season before getting an unlikely reprieve.A long-term injury to defender Andreas Christensen allowed Hansi Flick’s side to register Olmo as an emergency player.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd he has since gone on to score six goals and provide one assist in 14 matches, helping his side top the LaLiga table.However, Olmo’s temporary registration expires at the end of the year.It means Barcelona have to find a way to get him in their squad officially.And if they cannot find a solution, Olmo will effectively be banned from playing for his boyhood club.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAccording to the Athletic, that then opens the door for the midfielder to sensationally quit Barcelona on a free transfer.It’s reckoned Olmo was aware of the registration issue when he returned to Catalonia.Ian Wright convinced Spain star Dani Olmo is ‘taking the micky out of us’ with pre-Euro 2024 final gestureAnd as part of the deal, a clause was inserted in his contract allowing Olmo to leave Barcelona for free in January should he be unable to play.The title hopefuls now have until December 31 to either make some sales or drastically increase their revenue, as they are not allowed to re-register Olmo for a second time.But sporting director Deco is confident the superstar will still be a Barca player come the end of the month.He said: “Yes of course (we will register Olmo properly). We’re working on it and everyone is calm.“There are internal issues at the club. Don’t worry, we’ll fix it. The player is calm, don’t worry.”Barcelona reportedly hope to solve the issue imminently after agreeing a new kit deal with Nike.However, it must first be approved through a members’ vote, due to go ahead on December 21.READ MORE SUN STORIESShould that fall through, Barcelona are also reportedly looking to sell the rights to their VIP boxes at the Nou Camp.And the final option is for a board member to “put up a personal guarantee”, with neither Barcelona or Olmo even thinking about a potential exit in January. More

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      Liverpool hit MAJOR stumbling block in Trent Alexander-Arnold contract extension in huge transfer boost for Real Madrid

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      LIVERPOOL are £100,000-a-week short on persuading Trent Alexander-Arnold to sign a new five-year deal.Anfield chiefs have offered the England full-back a £70,000 rise on his current £180,000 weekly wage.Liverpool are £100,000-a-week short on persuading Trent Alexander-Arnold to extendCredit: AlamyLiverpool boss Arne Slot could lose Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van DijkCredit: GettyBut Alexander-Arnold is holding out for £350,000 to match another of the Prem leaders’ contract rebels, Mohamed Salah.TAA’s conract is up in the summer and he knows Real Madrid are waiting to offer him what he wants.Like Salah and skipper Virgil van Dijk, Alexander-Arnold can talk to interested foreign parties next month.TAA has told close pals that he would like to stay, especially as he is now settled into a £5million Cheshire mansion.Read More on FootballThe Liverpool vice-skipper also has a new girlfriend in Estelle Behnke. Yet SunSport understands he is determined to get what he believes he is worth – and what Spanish giants Real are prepared to pay him.He said last week: “I have been at the club 20 years and I have signed four or five contract extensions.“None of those have been played out in public. This one won’t be either.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMeanwhile, Van Dijk, 33, has been offered a new contract in the club’s bid to hold on to their star defender beyond June when his current deal runs out.However, the Merseysiders’ proposal reportedly fell short of the centre-back’s expectations and so far there has been no breakthrough on the value or length of an extension.Moment blunt Liverpool boss Arne Slot embarrasses reporter with very obvious fact after Ryan Gravenberch questionThe Reds have also taken “concrete steps” in contract negotiations with Salah, 32.The winger’s future has taken precedence among fans and media but he has dropped multiple hints that his eight-year stint at Anfield might be coming to an end.Last month, the Egypt international told Sky Sports that “no offer” had been made to extend his stay.So far the club’s owners FSG have refused to bow to Salah’s wage demands and he knows there would be mega money on offer in Saudi Arabia. More

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      Ex-Premier League star Jesus Navas breaks down in tears as he plays final home game for Sevilla

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      FORMER Premier League winner Jesus Navas broke down in tears as he said an emotional goodbye to Sevilla.The 39-year-old legend is hanging up his boots at the end of this calendar year.Jesus Navas said an emotional farewell to SevillaCredit: RexThe Spanish veteran is hanging up his boots due to a hip injuryCredit: RexNavas has played 704 times for his boyhood clubCredit: GettyNavas touched and kissed the ground where his former team-mate suffered a cardiac arrestCredit: RexNavas, who has been on Sevilla’s books for 20 years, played the last home match of his career last night as his side beat Celta Vigo 1-0.And after the game, the veteran was given an incredible send-off at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium.Navas broke down in tears as he and his family were given a guard of honour by his team-mates.Supporters chanted his name and held up banners for him as the emotional Spaniard waved goodbye.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOn his way around the pitch, Navas showed his class by stopping and kissing the ground where his former team-mate Antonio Puerta suffered a cardiac arrest during a match in 2007.Puerta sadly passed away three days later.Navas was 18-years-old when he made his Sevilla debut and went on to play for his boyhood club 704 times.He lifted two Copa del Reys and four Europa Leagues, with two of the successes coming while captain.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSA Prem-winning four years at Manchester City from 2013 to 2017 came between his spells at Sevilla. Navas initially announced he was leaving in May but chairman Jose Maria del Nido then offered him a lifetime contract.Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballersDespite managing 71 minutes in his final appearance, the versatile winger hangs up his boots due to a chronic hip injury.Navas admitted he “can’t take” playing through the pain anymore.On the international stage, he won the World Cup and two Euros with Spain.Fans held up a huge banner in honour of NavasCredit: Getty More

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      Fans convinced Carlo Ancelotti has had lip fillers as reason for Real Madrid manager’s swollen mouth is revealed

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      FANS were transfixed by a lip-smacking thriller – before wondering if Carlo Ancelotti had lip-swelling filler.Viewers were open-mouthed with astonishment over the Real Madrid manager’s swollen bottom lip in a press conference following a 3-3 draw at Rayo Vallecano.Viewers were entranced by Carlo Ancelotti’s lips when he faced the mediaCredit: X @marcaJude Bellingham had earlier netted as Real Madrid drew 3-3Credit: AFPAncelotti saw his Real team fail to move top of LaLigaCredit: GettyMany fans were convinced the legendary ex-Chelsea chief must have had botox treatment or an operationOne posted: “What’s wrong with your lip? Have you had surgery?”Another claimed: “I’ve been giggling about Ancelotti’s lip filler since I woke up”  A third wrote: “Can someone explain to me what Ancelotti has done to his lips?”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe unexpected debate about Ancelotti’s facial features came after Jude Bellingham netted for a sixth LaLiga match in a row.The last player to do that was Karim Benzema, also for Real, eight years ago.But the draw means Ancelotti’s men remain a point behind neighbours Atletico Madrid and leaders Barcelona.So one fan felt able to ask: “Why did Ancelotti get lip filler. This is not a serious club.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSpanish outlet mundodeportivo say his large lips were due to an allergy.But it didn’t save the former Bayern Munich and Everton boss from less than generous jibes.Jude Bellingham’s glorious England moment brought back in stylePlenty of fans on social media made up their own mind over the cause of the apparent swelling.One wrote: “Ancelotti has punctured his lips or is it just me.”Another said: “Ancelotti has been more concerned about his lips than about today’s game.”That was particularly unkind as Real recovered from trailing 2-0 to lead 3-2 through Federico Valverde, Bellingham and Rodrygo.But Isi Palazon rescued a valuable point for second-bottom Vallecano.So for Ancelotti it wasn’t a case of all’s swell that ends swell. More

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      Real Madrid ‘interested in TWO Man Utd defenders’ with Ruben Amorim ‘willing to allow fan favourite to leave’

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      REAL MADRID are reportedly keeping tabs on TWO Manchester United defenders ahead of the January transfer window.Real have endured a mixed start this season after winning LaLiga and the Champions League titles last term.Real Madrid are keeping tabs on Manchester United fan favourite Lisandro MartinezCredit: AlamyReal are also targeting Diogo Dalot after an impressive season with Man UtdCredit: AlamyMan Utd manager Ruben Amorim is willing to let Martinez goCredit: GettyAnd their plight has has not been helped by a defensive injury crisis, with Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy and Eder Militao all out.Carlo Ancelotti is already looking for ways to reinstate Los Blancos as the team to beat in the coming transfer window.And, according to talkSPORT, he has, for some reason, set his sights on Old Trafford.The Madrid boss is said to be keeping tabs on United’s defensive duo Lisandro Martinez and Diogo Dalot.Read More on Man UtdMartinez, 26, has been one of the Red Devils’ biggest fan favourites since his arrival from Ajax in 2022 thanks to his talent and passion.Nevertheless, new Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim would be open to letting the centre-back go as he looks to impose his own philosophy.Real also appear impressed with Dalot, 25, who enjoyed an impressive campaign at Old Trafford last season and was voted as the Players’ Player of the Year.The full-back stood out by showing his ability to cover both flanks amid the Manchester giants’ injury crisis, before struggling to match that form so far this season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSReal would find that useful with ageing right-back Carvajal suffering a devastating injury that ruled him out for the season.Ancelotti has also been unable to find the right man to cover at left-back.Awkward Alexander-Arnold billboard showing Liverpool star posing with ex is erected in MilanThe same report claims the Italian tactician has set his sights on other Premier League targets as well.One of them of course is Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contract runs out in June.Tottenham ace Cristian Romero is also being monitored by the Spanish giants.Real manager Carlo Ancelotti has set his sights on the Premier LeagueCredit: Rex More

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      Dortmund star Nico Schlotterbeck rushed to hospital after horror injury leaving manager in ‘shock’

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      BORUSSIA DORTMUND centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck was rushed to hospital after suffering what appeared to be a serious injury against Barcelona.The 25-year-old fell awkwardly on his ankle while attempting to equalise late in the Champions League match.Nico Schlotterbeck suffered a horrific ankle injury against BarcelonaCredit: GettyHe was stretchered off after full-timeCredit: GettyThe defender landed awkwardly after going for a headerCredit: RexWith the score 3-2 to Barcelona at Signal Iduna Park, a free kick from Pascal Gross found Schlotterbeck in the box.The defender’s headed effort flew narrowly over the crossbar and he severely twisted his ankle while landing.Referee François Letexier immediately called the team doctors over before ending the match for full-time.After receiving some immediate treatment, he was eventually stretchered off the pitch.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe was later filmed being loaded into an ambulance.Dortmund manager Nuri Sahin provided an update on Schlotterbeck’s injury during his post-match press conference.He explained: “The sight was terrible. We have to deal with this shock.”If you look at the images, it doesn’t look good. A sleepless night awaits.”Most read in Champions LeagueBVB sporing director Sebastian Kehl later added: “His foot is thickly bandaged. We’ll await the diagnosis tomorrow.”And midfielder Emre Can said: “He was in a lot of pain on the pitch. I hope it’s not too bad.”Dortmund went on to lose the match 3-2 against Barcelona.Raphinha opened the scoring for the visitors just after half-time.Serhou Guirassy then equalised but Ferran Torres restored Barcelona’s lead.Guirassy levelled things up again, but Torres responded by netting the winner in the 85th minute. More

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      World’s best XI revealed with Mo Salah and Lamine Yamal snubbed as fans fume at ‘joke’ goalkeeper pick

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      FIFPRO have revealed their world’s best XI – and there are some big names missing.Five Premier League stars made the cut and were joined by some of LaLiga’s best.FIFPRO announced their world’s best XI and left out some big namesLiverpool superstar Mohamed Salah didn’t make the cutCredit: GettyBarcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal wasn’t in despite his club and country heroicsCredit: GettyManchester City goalkeeper Ederson was named in goal, much to the dismay of some fans.Real Madrid’s Dani Carvajal and Antonio Rudiger team up with Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk in defence.City talisman Kevin De Bruyne covers the right flank with Real and England star Jude Bellingham on the other side.The Citizens’ star and Ballon d’Or winner Rodri teams up with Toni Kroos, who recently retired after a brilliant season with Los Blancos.Read More on FootballReal megastars Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr link up with City striker Erling Haaland up front.But some fans were not happy with the final product as there were some big names missing.Among them were Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, Arsenal’s William Saliba and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, despite his heroics for club and Spain.One fan tweeted: “This is a joke. What is Ederson doing in it?Most read in FootballAnother commented: “Mbappe isn’t even a rw, they really doing anything to exclude Salah.”A third wrote: “Lamine Yamal robbed.”Ballon d’Or 2024 results1: Rodri, Man City and Spain2: Vinicius Jr, Real Madrid and Brazil3: Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid and England4: Dani Carvajal, Real Madrid and Spain5: Erling Haaland, Man City and Norway6: Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid and France7: Lautaro Martinz, Inter Milan and Argentina8: Lamine Yamal, Barcelona and Spain9: Toni Kroos, Real Madrid and Germany10: Harry Kane, Bayern Munich and England11: Phil Foden, Man City and England12: Florian Wirtz, Bayer Leverkusen and Germany13: Dani Olmo, Barcelona and Spain14: Ademola Lookman, Atalanta and Nigeria15: Nico Williams, Athletic Bilbao and Spain16: Granit Xhaka, Bayer Leverkusen and Switzerland17: Federico Valverde, Real Madrid and Uruguay18: Emi Martinez, Aston Villa and Argentina19: Martin Odegaard, Arsenal and Norway20: Hakan Calhanoglu, Inter Milan and Turkey21: Bukayo Saka, Arsenal and England22: Antonio Rudiger, Real Madrid and Germany23: Ruben Dias, Man City and Portugal24: William Saliba, Arsenal and France25: Cole Palmer, Chelsea and England26: Declan Rice, Arsenal and England27: Vitinha, PSG and Portugal28: Alejandro Grimaldo, Bayer Leverkusen and Spain29: Mats Hummels, Roma and Germany30: Artem Dovbyk, Roma and UkraineLamine Yamal sends brutal message live on TV after being called out by Adrien Rabiot ahead of Euro 2024 semi-final Another said: “Is there anything else he [Palmer] needs to do to prove himself?”And a further comment read: “Where’s Saliba?” More