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      Tragic Sven-Goran Erikkson faced string of disasters that saw him lose MILLIONS & conned by fake football billionaire

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      HE was one of the highest-paid football managers of all time, raking in a cool £25million during his five-year reign as England boss. But Sven-Goran Eriksson’s glittering career was scarred by a string of financial disasters that left him penniless.Sven Goran-Eriksson died £8.6million in debtCredit: AP:Associated PressHe was led to believe he was helming a Man City-style transformation at Notts CountyCredit: The TimesSven and the club were led on by convicted fraudster Russell KingCredit: Action ImagesThe Swede, who tragically passed away from pancreatic cancer last August, lost millions over the years before a desperate bid to save his fortune. Despite his footballing success, Swedish documents revealed Eriksson died £8.6 million (88 million kronor) in debt.His lawyer and close friend Anders Runebjer blamed his tax debts on poor investment decisions – including a failed film scheme in 2006.The 76-year-old was best known for managing England from 2001 to 2006 and made history as the first foreign manager to lead the team at two World Cups.Read More on SvenDuring his 36-year career, Eriksson had a number of lucrative roles and received around £7million in pay-offs alone from England, Manchester City – where he spent a season in charge – and Mexico.He also coached IFK Goteborg, Benfica, Roma, Fiorentina, Sampdoria, Lazio and Leicester City, winning 17 major trophies.But away from the pitch, Sven fell victim to several embarrassing scams and financial disasters.From fake billionaires to an unscrupulous adviser, we take a look at scams which fleeced the late manager…Most read in FootballFootball club scamThe most bizarre chapter of Eriksson’s football career began in June 2009 when he was first contacted by convicted fraudster Russell King, a former financier from Jersey.He claimed to represent a wealthy group of investors from the Middle East and Europe, reaching out through a third party.Emotional David Beckham looks close to tears at Sven-Goran Eriksson’s coffin is led out of church following funeral service in SwedenHe and an associate wined and dined Eriksson at the Dorchester Hotel and gave a “very clever, very convincing” pitch about taking over Notts County, billing it as a Manchester City-style transformation.”I met these two guys, and they were very enthusiastic about what they had to say,” Eriksson recalled. “They told me they had already bought the club and had big plans to take it to the Premier League. “They promised improvements to the players, the training ground, the academy, and even said they would fix the stadium and buy feeder clubs.”Unbeknown to Sven, King had served a two-year sentence for fraud in the early 1990s for trying to claim £600,000 in insurance by falsely reporting his Aston Martin stolen.King managed to seize control of nearly 50 per cent of a London investment bank by falsely claiming he was overseeing the sovereign wealth of the Bahraini royal family.He then used a bank guarantee from the same institution to take control of Notts County, only for it to later be revealed as worthless.The conman lured Eriksson in with promises of £10million in shares and Eriksson became director.They promised improvements to the players, the training ground, the academy, and even said they would fix the stadium and buy feeder clubsSven Goran ErikssonKing wanted Eriksson’s star power to legitimise his schemes, even dragging him to North Korea to seal a deal with the rogue state’s officials. King claimed one of his companies was worth a jaw-dropping $2trillion (£1.27 trillion) after supposedly securing rights to mine the country’s gold, oil, and iron ore in exchange for £1billion from Bahrain.But the promised billions never materialised. King fled to Bahrain, leaving millions in debts and Notts County unable to pay basic bills.Extradited years later, he was jailed in 2019 for 25 counts of fraud and larceny but released from Jersey prison in 2021.England football manager Sven Goran Eriksson and his ex-partner Nancy Dell’OlioCredit: PAEriksson later admitted his embarrassment, recalling how he was taken in by King’s outlandish promises. “They used my name, of course they did,” he said. “At the time, we couldn’t even pay the milk bill at Notts County. It was a big, big mistake.”’Hated’ financial advisorAfter the embarrassing Notts County saga, the football icon later claimed he had lost £10 million thanks to the actions of his trusted financial adviser, Samir Khan.In a bombshell interview with the Telegraph in 2013, Sven said he had been forced to put his £4 million Swedish “dream house” on the market. “I never hate anyone in my life,” he said. “I don’t think I have many enemies but I hate Samir Khan because you can’t treat people like he has done.He’s probably the only person on earth I hate. I feel let down, angry and disappointed because I trusted this man for many, many yearsSven Goran Eriksson “He’s probably the only person on earth I hate. I feel let down, angry and disappointed because I trusted this man for many, many years.”The pair met in 2004, and by 2007, Khan had control of Sven’s affairs. Two years later, the Swede grew concerned and asked Deloitte to run checks on Khan.In 2010, Eriksson’s lawyers obtained a worldwide freezing order in the High Court against Khan and launched legal proceedings, claiming that Khan made negligent investments and pocketed “secret profits”.Khan denied the claims before being declared bankrupt. Eriksson said: “I gave him too much freedom. I gave him all the authority he needed to take care of my economy.”Film scheme backfiredSven admits he made some bad financial decisionsCredit: AP:Associated PressAs Sven scrambled to recover cash, he also fell victim to the failed Eclipse Film investment scheme.The series of film financing schemes, conceived by HSBC, claimed they would make money by buying the rights to blockbuster Disney movies and leasing them back to studios.Investors were told they could defer their tax bills and spread the payments out over a number of years.But HMRC became concerned the £2.2 billion scheme was being used to avoid tax, leading them to take Eclipse to the Supreme Court in 2016.Investors were handed accelerated payment notices the following year – reversing the tax benefits they had previously enjoyed and demanding they pay interest on the multi-million pound sums.The Supreme Court crushed any hopes for the scheme in 2012 by refusing to challenge HMRC’s ruling.Investors, including Sven, were told they wouldn’t receive the £117m in tax relief promised, leaving them liable for massive bills.Home sold at ‘bargain’ priceSven’s mansion near Sunne, SwedenCredit: AlamySven is seen in the swimming pool of his his mansionCredit: AlamyWhile managing the Three Lions, Sven bought a grand 19th-century lakeside manor in Sunne, Sweden, for £420,000. The sprawling 835-square-metre home features numerous reception rooms, a library, and an expansive poolhouse, which includes a saltwater pool, spa, sauna, jacuzzi, gym, and relaxation space. Outside, the property boasts a tennis court, a jetty, a sandy cove, and waterside gazebos. Sotheby’s agents noted Sven had added his personal touch to both the interior and exterior. READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, when it came to selling the estate after Sven’s death last year, the financial gods were unkind once again.Despite its value peaking at £3 million, by last year its value had plummeted by nearly half, selling for a “bargain” price of £1.8 million.Nancy paid tribute to her ex after his death, saying ‘you will be missed’Credit: Instagram @nancydellolioThe late football manager with his partner Yaniseth Alcides during the Sports Gala 2024Credit: RexSven’s partner and David Beckham at his funeral last yearCredit: RexEriksson with Roberto ManciniCredit: GettySVEN’S AMAZING CAREER1977 – Having played football professionally in Sweden, Sven-Goran Eriksson kicked off his managerial career with Swedish side Degerfors.2000 – He guided Lazio to the Serie A title to become one of the hottest coaches in the world.2001 – Following the resignation of Kevin Keegan, he was appointed England’s next permanent manager in February 2001. He oversaw 66 games with the Three Lions, winning 39 and losing just 12.2002 – Eriksson led England to the 2002 World Cup with the likes of Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes and David Beckham in his squad. The Three Lions were knocked out in the quarter-finals.2004 – The legendary manager also led the Three Lions to Euro 2004, but they were knocked out of the quarter-finals to Portugal.2006 – Eriksson led England to another World Cup, his final tournament in charge, before resigning.2007 – The Swede took charge of Manchester City a year after leaving the England job and oversaw 45 games.2010 – Having coached Mexico, Ivory Coast and Notts County after parting ways with Man City, Erikson took charge of Leicester and saved them from relegation. Following his time with the Foxes he went on to manage China and Philippines.2024 – In January 2024, Eriksson announced he had been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. Three months later, he fulfilled a lifelong dream of managing Liverpool in a legends match at Anfield, before passing away in August. More

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      New MOTD host Kelly Cates almost SNUBBED football completely – despite being the daughter of Liverpool royalty

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      KELLY Cates almost snubbed football completely despite being the daughter of Liverpool royalty.Gabby Logan, Cates and Mark Chapman will host Match Of The Day after Gary Lineker leaves at the end of the season.Kelly Cates has built a stellar career in the media over the past 20 yearsCredit: GettyCates is familiar to Sky Sports viewers as the host for Super SundayLiverpool legend Kenny Dalglish poses with his familyCredit: PA:Press AssociationThe confirmation follows speculation about the presenting line-up of the BBC’s flagship football show following news last year that Lineker would step back from the role.The former England striker has presented the show since 1999.Cates, who will also continue her role with Sky Sports, said: “Once I sit in that chair and the theme music starts, I just know that’s going to be a really incredible moment.”I’ve worked with a lot of the pundits before and they’re all fantastic, so I’m just looking forward to getting started.Read more Sports News”I’ve known Gabby and Mark really well for years so to bring it all together, embracing the digital side of things, it feels like a really comprehensive football package for fans and that’s what makes it so exciting too.”She has been a presenter with Sky Sports since rejoining them in 2016, fronting their coverage of the Premier League.The 49-year-old daughter of former Scotland and Liverpool footballer Sir Kenny Dalglish also hosts BBC Radio 5 Live’s Tuesday night sports coverage.But Cates had no intention of taking when she was at university studying maths.Most read in FootballShe comes from footballing royaltyKelly grew up with football around her.It was mum, Marina who would take her to games dad Kenny was playing in.Gary Lineker will stop presenting Match of the Day the end of this season at and will quit Beeb by 2027″When I was a baby my mum took me to matches to watch my dad play,” she said in an interview with magazine When Saturday Comes.”I don’t remember a time when I didn’t go to football games – my earliest memories are of being in the players’ lounge with the other players’ children.”However, that didn’t make Kelly a Liverpool fan.When her father moved to clubs, including Blackburn and Newcastle United as a manager, she hoped they did well – even against the Reds.Despite football being in her blood, she revealed she didn’t have as much of a flair for it as her famous father.She laughed: “I ran down the wing thinking ‘Oh, this will be easy’, tripped over and knocked myself out!”That was the end of my football career.”Thought of a different lifeAlthough she has become football broadcasting royalty, Cates nearly snubbed a chance to work in the game.At university being a sports TV presenter was far from her mind.She said: “I did a degree in maths but after I left university I wanted to do something different.When she was at university Cates studied mathsCredit: GettyHowever, when Sky Sports News launched she decided to give presenting a goCredit: PA:Press AssociationFather and daughter share a laugh during Sky Sports’ coverageCredit: PA”The Sky Sports News channel was being launched and they were looking for young people who loved football.”It was new and no one was watching so they pretty much said to us: ‘Go and play at being on the telly!”‘Family came firstSince the Millennium, Cates’ career rise has followed a steep trajectory.She initially left Sky Sports in 2016, after wanting to start a family with then fiancé Tom Cates, who she shares two children with.”I left Sky Sports News in 2006, after the Germany World Cup,” she told The Overlap’s ‘Not Just Football’ podcast back in October.”I’d been there for eight years and I had just turned 30, or I was just turning 31.”I was engaged, but not yet married. I knew I wanted to have children quite soon at that point.”It had just been, for a long time, kind of filtering away and running in the back of my head.”I came to the end of my contract and was working under my new contract and within the space of about three days, made the decision.Kelly got married to Tom Cates in 2007, although they divorced in 2021Credit: Luke InmanCates has worked at ESPN, ITV, Setanta Sports and more through the years tooCredit: Getty”I was driving into work one day, I walked in and I said, ‘I don’t want to sign this new contract, I want to go!’ I had nothing to go to.”I just walked away, but I was so sure that I had to go and make that change.”I did it when I left university to go to Sky, which is different, because then you get something that’s really exciting, shiny and new, dangled in front of you and you think, ‘I’m going to take this jump’.”Cates got married in 2007, although they sadly divorced in 2021.That same year she began a job at the now defunct Setanta Sports – bouncing around jobs at ESPN, ITV, and STV.However, in 2016 she made her return back to Sky Sports – feeling she had unfinished business.Initially, she fronted their EFL coverage before becoming the main anchor for the Premier League.READ MORE SUN STORIESCates has been a huge success for the channel, alongside Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher.Who can forget when she hilariously turned her back on them, after they turned their back on her during a segment that went wrong.Kelly will divide her time between MOTD and BBC Radio 5 LiveCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdSky’s loss will be BBC’s gain – as Super Sunday will need a new hostCredit: PA:Press Association More

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      Pep Guardiola’s daughter Maria gives emotional interview on ‘feeling loved’ after parents split up after 30 years

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      PEP Guardiola’s eldest daughter has broken her silence following the Manchester City manager’s shock “split” from his wife Cristina Serra.Model and influencer Maria gave an emotional interview about feeling loved and the important lessons from her parents’ relationship.Maria Guardiola has given her first interview in the wake of her parents’ looming splitCredit: Instagram @maria.guardiolaMaria is the eldest of Pep’s three childrenCredit: GettyPep and Cristina have been together for 30 yearsBarcelona-based newspaper Sport reported that Guardiola and wife Cristina decided to end their relationship in December while both in Spain.The report claims they have been living apart for nearly five years after Cristina moved back to Barcelona to run her fashion company while Pep remained at his luxury apartment in Manchester’s Deansgate.The sweethearts, who were together for three decades and married in 2014, are yet to comment on the separation after it was revealed on Monday night.But Pep’s daughter Sophia is the first family member to reveal details about their relationship and her loving family life growing up.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe 24-year-old fashionista told Vanity Fair: “My parents have always advised me to find what I am passionate about.“They encourage me to try new things, to accept failure and to keep searching until I find my calling, because when I do, full dedication will come naturally.“They also remind me that the most important thing in life is to love and be loved.“In the end it all comes down to feeling loved. Even in situations where we feel out of place, they tell me to listen carefully to others.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“There is always something valuable to learn from each person we meet.”A close family friend was quoted yesterday claiming their marriage ended because Pep is a “total workaholic”.Man City boss Pep Guardiola’s recen struggles could be a response to the end of his marriage to teenage sweetheart  Cristina SerraEldest Maria is a modelCredit: Instagram @maria.guardiolaMan City boss Pep Guardiola is believed to have separated from his wife of 30 years Cristina SerraCredit: GettyMaria did not comment on her parent’s split and no reason for the divorce has been given.But she referenced her dad’s dedication to his career in her magazine interview by saying: “My father was already playing when I was born.“All our movements have focused on his career, first as a player and then as a coach. Soccer has shaped much of our family’s journey.“In many ways, my family and I owe our lives and opportunities to this sport and, of course, to my father’s exceptional talent and passion.”Admitting to inheriting her dad’s “stubbornness” she added: “When we set our minds to something, we pursue it with tunnel vision until we achieve it.”Guardiola with Cristina and their three kids in 2018The ex-Barcelona boss has been enduring a turbulent campaign this seasonGuardiola had some strong words for Ortega at full time last nightGuardiola let rip at his own goalkeeper Stefan Ortega before then violently hugging him following his side’s 2-2 draw with Brentford last night.The 53-year-old was absolutely livid on the touchline as the camera caught him kicking a Gtech advertisement near the stands of the Gtech Community Stadium.The ex-Barcelona boss has been enduring a turbulent campaign that has seen the Citizens drop down to sixth place in the Premier League table.Still sporting his wedding ring, Guardiola would have loved to see his stuttering team register three points.During better times in Manchester, where he won a record four straight Prem titles and a historic Champions League, Cristina decided to continue on her family’s business back in Spain.She and the couple’s youngest child Valentina moved back to Barcelona in 2019 so that the Brazilian journalist turned fashion designer could help continue her family boutique Serra-Claret.The boutique line, which stocks a number of expensive designer labels, was first opened in 1933.Cristina has been living in a villa in Pedralbes, an exclusive neighbourhood in the hills surrounding Barcelona.The property, which the couple bought in 2021 for £8.55million, lies within an enclave of three villas where neighbouring properties have sold previously for around £20million.Guardiola is believed to have met Cristina in her family’s clothes store called Serra Claret when he was just 18.He was modelling for designer Antonio Miro in Serra’s shop when he first met Cristina.And even as recently as January 2024, the former midfielder revealed Cristina helps pick out his matchday outfits.READ MORE SUN STORIESSerra Claret stock many brands he has worn on the touchline, such as Dsquared2, CP Company and Armani.Sport say their relationship is still “cordial, stable and friendly” despite deciding to part ways.Cristina is expected to continue living in the £8.5m home in Barcelona’s elite suburbsThe Barcelona home comes fitted with an impressive outdoor poolThe views from the Guardiola family home in Barcelona are jaw-droppingMaria attended The Best Fifa Football Awards with her parents in 2023Credit: RexGuardiola and Serra share three children: Maria, 24, Marius, 22, and Valentina, 15Credit: GettyGuardiola has won six Premier League titles with City More

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      Former Liverpool star, 34, moves away from football for luxury property business worth millions

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      A FORMER Liverpool captain has opened up a luxury property business in Dubai as he continues his transition away from football.Mamadou Sakho, 34, has launched his career as an entrepreneur after leaving French club Montpellier under a cloud.Former Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho has launched his career as an entreprenuerCredit: Instagram @sakhoandcoThe main venture of Sakho & Co. is ‘Sakho properties’Credit: Instagram @sakhoandcoSakho played for Liverpool for three seasons but left early into Jurgen Klopp’s reignCredit: PA:Press AssociationThe former Premier League defender, who was a leader at Anfield from 2013 to 2017, set up Sakho & Co in Dubai in November.His property and interior design business runs with the motto of ‘Elevate Your Game’.The company also deals in consulting and video production. Sakho joined Crystal Palace in 2017 and spent three seasons at Selhurst Park before moving to Montpellier as a free agent in 2021.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut he reportedly quit the Ligue 1 side two years later over a “lack of respect” – a week after an incredible bust-up with their manager.At the time, Sakho said he will “leave like a man” – amid claims he grabbed and pushed boss Michel Der Zakarian in a training ground row.Sakho joined little-known Georgian club Torpedo Kutaisi in June 2024, playing for them 13 times. But the 29-capped France international’s social media output has been focused on his lifestyle and business in the United Arab Emirates.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThis new venture has seen him rub shoulders with the likes of Max Verstappen, Bacary Sagna, Florent Malouda, and ex-Liverpool team-mate Christian Benteke. The dominant strand of his business, Sakho properties, works across Dubai, Paris, Marrakech, and Senegal.Crystal Palace player Mamadou Sakho shows off his £250k Rolls Royce birthday present to himselfSakho has hired multiple professionals to aid himCredit: TikTok – @sakhoandcoOne property advertised is a 75th-floor penthouse with panoramic views in DubaiCredit: TikTok – @sakhoandcoThe ex-Liverpool star lives a life of luxury in DubaiA quick browse of his website shows luxury properties worth millions.One five-bed waterfront villa is selling for £9.6million in the exclusive Dubai neighbourhood of Palm Jumeirah, according to The Mail.Sakho regularly features in the business’ videos, walking prospective buyers around properties, decked out in his sunglasses. Alongside his launch party in November, Sakho posted: “It is finally time to share a project that unites my passion for football with my entrepreneurial spirit.”A spirit that has been forged and enriched in recent years and to which every minute of my free time has been dedicated.”I can’t wait to introduce you to Sakho & Co, an ecosystem that offers a complete range of interconnected services designed to support entrepreneurs, investors and individuals looking for tailor-made solutions!”Team Sakho and Co. are based in DubaiSakho regularly updates his 1.6million Instagram followersCredit: Instagram @sakhoandcoHis new life in the United Arab Emirates has seen him become a guest of Red Bull at the F1Liverpool signed Sakho from Paris Saint-Germain for £18million in September 2013.He arrived with a big reputation, having been PSG’s youngest-ever captain at the age of 17 years and eight months. He helped the Reds finish second in the Prem under Brendan Rodgers in the 2013-14 season.But Sakho, who captained Liverpool several times in the absence of Steven Gerrard and Jordan Henderson, fell out with Jurgen Klopp in 2016.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe was sent home from Liverpool’s pre-season tour in the United States after missing a team meeting and turning up late to a recovery session. The Frenchman spent that season on loan at Palace before joining the London side permanently for £26m in September 2017. Sakho linked up with former Liverpool team-mate Christian Benteke (right)Credit: Instagram @sakhoandcoEx-Arsenal full-back Bacary Sagna also attended Sakho’s launchJurgen Klopp banished Sakho from pre-season training in 2016/17Credit: PA:Press AssociationHe later spent three seasons with Crystal PalaceCredit: Reuters More

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      Nottingham Forest 1 Liverpool 1: Slot’s super-subs combine 22 SECONDS after coming on to equalise but Arsenal get boost

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      ARNE SLOT will never make a better substitution in his career.Nottingham Forest were rolling with the punches and hanging on comfortably to their slender lead, following Chris Wood’s early opener.Diogo Jota levelled for LiverpoolCredit: ReutersFor the first time this season, Liverpool’s title charge looked on the verge of being derailed as Forest appeared to be on course to dish out a second defeat to the Dutchman.But it’s when the chips are down the great bosses earn their lolly – and some go on to become legends.That’s when Slot turned to his bench and sent on Kostas Tsimikas and Diogo Jota for Ibrahima Konate and Andy Robertson.But even he couldn’t have imagined the instant impact his changes would make.READ MORE IN football Because 22 SECONDS later Liverpool were celebrating one of great turnarounds of the Dutchman’s career as Tsimikas delivered a corner from the right with his first touch.And Jota stole between Murillo and Chris Wood to head past Matz Sels to score a sensational leveller with his first touch to maintain Liverpool’s stranglehold at the top of the table.Seconds earlier Jota had hugged with his old boss Nuno Espirito Santo on the sideline – yet Nuno must have known better than anyone what the little striker was capable of.Jota has now scored seven goals in his last seen games against Forest and he could have had a hat-trick if he wasn’t denied by two stunning Sels stops.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSSuddenly Liverpool looked like champions and Mo Salah cursed his luck twice as Sels defied him with a stunning save before Ola Aina cleared another netbound effort off the line.In the end a share of the points will please both sides after Chris Wood picked the ideal time to score his first ever career goal against Liverpool after eight minutes.Celtic fans set off huge pyro display as teams walk out against DundeeFor a while it looked as if the 33-year-old hitman had blown the title race wide open – until Slot played his jokers!The City Ground seemed to have turned the clock back to the heady days of the 70’s and 80’s when this pair regularly battled it out for all the major prizes.Forest were in their traditional red, white and red Adidas kit – Liverpool, as they used to be in yesteryear, white-shirted with black shorts.Then, just before kick-off, the hairs on the back of your neck rose as Forest fans belted out their anthem Mull of Kintyre as the City Ground cranked the volume up to 11!Yet it was Liverpool who found their feet first as they pinned the home side back from the first whistle.Cody Gakpo was first to let fly with an ambitious attempt which sailed high and wide.Then Ryan Gravenberch sliced a similarly ambitious effort high into the Trent End.When the Dutch midfielder worked a one-two with Mo Salah to carve Forest open, only to fire over again, Arne Slot couldn’t hide his frustration and spun round in his technical area.Chris Wood opened the scoringCredit: GettyHis fine form continuedCredit: RexYet things were about to get a lot more complicated for the Dutchman when Forest did what they’ve been doing all season.Soak up pressure – then ruthlessly spring out of defence like a coil – to score on the break!Ironically, it was Liverpool’s best player this season, Salah, who was the sinner on this occasion.He cheaply surrendered possession near the halfway line, but what happened next was pure Forest 2025-style!Callum Hudso-Odoi pounced on the ball and pinged a pass through the lines to Anthony Elanga.The former Manchester United winger took two touches, one to set himself up, the next a sublime diagonal ball into Chris Wood’s path.The big Kiwi had expertly pulled off Virgil van Dijk’s shoulder to create a few yards of space for himself and he put it to good use, expertly clipping the ball left-footed beyond Alisson to find the far corner. One attack …. 1-0 to Forest. Where have we heard that before under Nuno?Jota got Liverpool back on level termsCredit: RexHe had only just come off the benchCredit: PAThe City Ground exploded in a frenzy of red and white as Forest fans danced in delight.It was Wood’s third goal on the spin for Forest as he took his goal tally up to 13 for the season.Significantly, it was his first ever career goal against Liverpool …. at the ripe old age of 33.But judging by his celebration he appeared to think it was worth the wait!Forest were soon back on the front foot when they lost possession cheaply again and Murillo drove forward before letting fly with a long range rocket which flew just wide.Liverpool were rocking and so was the City Ground as the home crowd lapped up the action. Wood’s goal was enough for Forest to temporarily leapfrog Arsenal, into second place in the Prem – a mere three points behind leaders Liverpool.The burning question was could they stay there?Liverpool’s composure had gone and even Van Dijk seemed affected as he clattered an attempted clearance off Elliott Anderson.The ball ricocheted across the face of his own goal past Alisson but fortunately Andy Robertson was on hand to shepherd the ball out for a throw-in as Elanga threatened to pounce.Forest were like a big lad teasing his little brother – holding Liverpool at arm’s length – watching them take swings without making contact as a string of long-range shots flew by.Luis Diaz was the latest to take a pot shot which failed to trouble Matz Sels, then Dominik Szoboszlai headed a Gakpo cross off Neco Williams as Forest continued to defend deep and in numbers.Liverpool’s growing angst was summed up when Trent Alexander-Arnold sent Diaz sprinting forward with Gakpo to his right to create a 2v1 situation.But it was Forest’s lone defender Murillo who read Diaz’s intent perfectly to intercept the striker’s pass and come away with the ball to roars of appreciation.By half-time Liverpool had enjoyed 70% of possession and managed nine shots – but not one of them was on target.Forest picked up a pair of bookings either side of the break. Morgan Gibbs-White for urging ref Chris Kavanagh to book Szoboszlai for fouling him – then Ryan Yates joined him for grabbing Diaz.Slot must have feared his side were on course to suffer their second defeat of the season at Forest’s hands.READ MORE SUN STORIESEspecially as Murillo was at his magnificent best – attracting the ball like a human magnet – rampaging up the park to win tackles and generally rattle the Reds.But then Slot turned to his bench and hit the jackpot.Arne Slot performed a masterclass with his subsCredit: Reuters More

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      How ‘seductive’ Man City boss Pep Guardiola wooed wife Cristina away from her TV career – and took her advice on tactics

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      MANCHESTER City boss Pep Guardiola has been so stressed out in recent months he has sworn at autograph hunters and bled from scratching his head.He is suffering the worst run of results in an impeccable career.’Seductive’ Man City boss Pep Guardiola wooed wife Cristina away from her TV career – and took her advice on tacticsCredit: RexThe announcement of their break-up was preceded by his worst ever run as a managerCredit: GettyAfter winning six Premier League titles in seven years, his usually invincible team went seven games without a victory. And they’ve had just three victories in the last ten Prem matches.But now it seems his bizarre behaviour could also be a response to the end of his marriage to teenage sweetheart Cristina Serra.It was revealed this week that the 53-year-old football legend has split from the mother of his three children after 30 years.READ MORE ON Pep Guardiola The couple were said to have called it a day FIVE YEARS ago but kept the news under wraps until officially parting ways last month.A well-informed source in Pep’s homeland of Spain said: “I can assure you they’re living apart and only a handful of people knew about this.”The announcement of the break-up was preceded by his worst ever run as a manager, with his once invincible side losing five games in a row before Christmas.‘Already seductive’There had been rumours that all was not been well with the relationship for a while.Most read in FootballIn 2019, Cristina, 52, moved back to Barcelona with the couple’s youngest daughter, Valentina, 17, while Pep stayed in Manchester.But in public, Pep’s love for Cristina, who he married in 2014, seemed to be as strong as ever.Pep Guardiola ‘SPLITS from wife after 30 years and three children together’ according to reports in SpainThey spent this Christmas together and were in the Royal Box on Centre Court at Wimbledon last summer, after previously being spotted on idyllic holidays and sharing an emotional kiss after Man City won the Champions League for the first time in 2023.He has credited his wife with his great sense of fashion and for bringing up his children.Brazilian Cristina was so important to the Spaniard that he refused to join any team without her say-so.In a rare personal interview in 2018, he said: “Only at home I feel safe. I mean safe in terms of not being observed. I close the door and I feel safe.“My job is demanding a lot. Cristina is an incredible woman, not just an incredible mother.“If we were talking about moving to New York, Munich and here, if she decides not to come, I won’t come. I will not be here, I cannot be alone in this kind of job without my family.”The romance began when an 18-year-old Pep went to a fashion store in Barcelona owned by Cristina’s family to model some outfits by Spanish designer Antonio Miro. At the time, he was playing for Barcelona’s B team, while she was an actress who had appeared on Spanish TV.Pep’s sister Francesca once said: “He was very handsome, a good student, always getting good marks, the teachers drooled over him, he was already seductive when he was little.”I can assure you they’re living apart and only a handful of people knew about thisWell-informed source in Pep’s homeland of Spain Cristina gave up acting to concentrate on her successful clothing business and is now said to be worth over £30million.Meanwhile, Pep established himself as one of the best midfielders of his generation, winning multiple titles with Barcelona’s first team.But in 2001 he tested positive for the prohibited steroid nandrolone and was banned from playing for four months. Cristina is said to have been his rock during this time, and put out a statement defending her husband, who always denied doping. It took him another six years to clear his name on appeal.Pep was known as “Perfecto” due to his obsession with the game — and he did not approve of team-mates putting their social lives first.When he retired as a player in 2006 it did not lead to more time with Cristina as he jumped straight into management with Barcelona’s B team.As a result, Pep was even more consumed by tactics, to the point that he could not hold a conversation about other subjects for more than half an hour.His friend Manel Estiarte told The Times in 2016: “You invite him for a meal in a restaurant, but after 32 minutes you can see his mind is already wandering.There had been rumours that all was not been well with the couple’s relationship for a while (pictured after Pep’s Champions League victory in 2023)Credit: GettyFans were concerned when a cut appeared on his nose and there were scratch marks on his forehead“He starts staring at the ceiling and, although he’s nodding as if he’s listening to you, he’s not looking at you. In actual fact he’s probably thinking about the opposition left-back, the marking scheme for the midfielder, how much the wingers can support the inside forwards.”The manager has admitted that he can also drift off into a world of his own when he is at home with his wife and children.He said: “My family know that I am there but I am not there. Sometimes I’m at home but not at home.“They call ‘Pep, Pep’ but they know I am in my own world.”Pep’s dedication to his job has more than paid off. He became the youngest manager to win the Champions League in 2009, lifting the most sought-after trophy in his first season in charge of Barcelona’s first team.The demands of day-to-day management took their toll though, and in 2012 he quit as boss in order to take a year out. He admitted: “I’m drained and I need to fill up.”That gave the family a chance to enjoy a more relaxed life in New York, where they went around unrecognised as they visited art galleries and hung out in cafes.‘My wife is so elegant’But the Premier League’s top clubs, including Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea, were all chasing him. He turned them down in favour of German giants Bayern Munich in 2013, whose stars included Dutch winger Arjen Robben.While at the Bundesliga team he told the Press that Cristina gave her opinion about his starting line-up. Smiling, he said: “My wife is more complicated than Robben. Cristina sometimes complains about my tactical decisions.“She tells me to repeat the 11 with which I won the last match. To explain to her my system of rotation is more difficult than telling Robben, ‘Today you’re a substitute’.”Cristina also made her views known about the well-dressed Pep’s sartorial choices. He said: “My wife is so elegant, she helps me a lot. Before, I was a disaster. But now I am elegant thanks to her.”My wife is more complicated than Robben. Cristina sometimes complains about my tactical decisionsBut it took two decades before Pep made Cristina his wife, with the couple getting hitched at a civil ceremony in 2014 in Matadepera, Catalonia.That was followed by a move to Manchester two years later when he became City boss.The family lived a plush apartment in Salford, not far from the centre, with their children Maria, 24, Marius, 22, and Valentina.During the short breaks between the stressful football seasons they would take holidays in exclusive resorts in Mauritius and Barbados.But in 2019, Pep’s statement that he would only go where his wife did no longer appeared to stand.Cristina moved back to Barcelona to look after the fashion business while he remained in Manchester.The new living arrangements coincided with a string of defeats for City, and at the end of the 2019/20 season they lost the Premier League to Liverpool.The couple were said to have called it a day FIVE YEARS ago but kept the news under wraps until officially parting ways last monthCredit: RexMaria went to study in London and is now a social media influencer whose boyfriends have been rumoured to include former England player Dele Alli. Marius lives in Dubai, where he runs a marketing and publicity company.That appears to leave Pep alone in his £2.7million apartment in Deansgate CitySuites, central Manchester. Cristina remains the patron of their charitable foundation, Fundacion Guardiola Sala, and is expected to keep the £8million mansion they own in Barcelona.The break-up is said to be amicable and not due to any affairs.Tonight Pep was even seen still wearing his wedding ring at City’s match against Brentford.Spanish reporter Lorena Vazquez said: “It’s been a carefully considered decision the couple discussed over several months.“They continue to have a cordial and affectionate relationship. No one else is involved. There are no third parties.” Last summer he showed signs of irritation when he confronted young men asking for autographs near his flat. Pep told them: “Don’t come again, I won’t tell you again, I know your faces.”Fans were concerned when a cut appeared on his nose and there were scratch marks on his forehead.Following a draw in the Champions League in November, he addressed the marks by commenting: “I want to harm myself. It’s from my nail on my finger. I cut myself with my fingernail.”He later had to apologise following accusations that he was making light of self-harm.READ MORE SUN STORIESWith the revelation that his marriage is now over, these actions take on a new light.And what was proving to be his toughest season on the pitch may well also be his hardest year off the field as well.Pep Guardiola’s horror Man City runPEP GUARDIOLA admitted he is having sleepless nights as he endures his worst-ever spell as a manager.Here are the three-time defending Premier League champions’ nightmare last 10 games…Oct 30: Tottenham 2 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 2: Bournemouth 2 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 5: Sporting Lisbon 4 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 9: Brighton 2 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 23 – Man City 0 Tottenham 4 – DEFEATNov 26: Man City 3 Feyenoord 3 – DRAWDec 1: Liverpool 2 Man City 0 – DEFEATDec 4: Man City 3 Nottingham Forest – WINDec 7: Crystal Palace 2 Man City 2 – DRAWDec 11: Juventus 2 Man City 0 – DEFEATTOTAL – WINS 1, DRAWS 2, DEFEATS 7 More

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      Inside Pep Guardiola’s £100m empire as Man City boss splits from wife – from £2.7m pad to ‘wrecked’ £460k car collection

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      FOOTBALL boss Pep Guardiola is used to dominating the football world, guiding Manchester City to trophy after trophy.But sadly, things off the pitch are not going so smoothly, following his reported split from wife Cristina Serra, who he has been with for more than 30 years.Pep’s wife Cristina has been at his side throughout his football careerCredit: GettyThe couple and their children have enjoyed lavish holidays over the yearsPep announced a sponsorship deal with Puma which is likely to have landed him a seven-figure pay dayCredit: PA:Press AssociationPep owns multiple luxury properties, has had numerous brand sponsorship deals and earns an eye-watering £19.7million a year from the Blues.But it remains to be seen how the couple, who wed in 2014, might split his fortune if they divorce, amid reports from Spain that they are still “cordial, stable and friendly”.It has been reported by Barcelona-based newspaper Sport that the pair came to a decision to separate in December while they were together in Pep’s homeland.Manchester City declined to comment about the split rumours.READ MORE CELEB FEATURESPep is said to have met his wife when he was just 18 years old, while Cristina was 16 and working in her family’s clothes store called Serra Claret.Both certainly have a good eye for the finer things in life, with Pep admitting it is his wife who often picks his pricey match-day outfits.Here we look at Guardiola’s gigantic £100million fortune, which includes a restaurant, luxury cars and a designer wardrobe that rivals most models.Stylish footballPep started off his career playing for Barcelona from the age of just 17, eventually debuting for their first team in 1990.Most read in FootballIt didn’t take long for him to be snapped up by fashion designers and by 18 he was modelling for designer Antonio Miro – which led to him meeting his wife.It was reported that every item from the Catalonian designer sold out just a few days after the event. Pep Guardiola reveals Kyle Walker has asked to LEAVE Man City with England defender set or £400K-A-WEEK Saudi transferPep has guided Manchester City to huge successCredit: PAHe’s credited his wife with his style choices, which have always drawn attentionCredit: GettyIt is, perhaps, unsurprising that Pep has become known for his style at the Etihad Stadium, often sporting turtle-necks and branded jumpers instead of always going for stuffy suits. Among his outfits is his signature grey ‘hoodigan’, which was made by Theresa May’s favourite Italian designer Herno and reportedly costs £1,200.But’s he not always the one behind these iconic outfits.He said: “My wife is the best in the world at many things, but especially in fashion. So she says normally to me, don’t wear this or wear that, so I follow her.“I am smart enough to know that when people are much, much better than me, follow their advice, and hers is really good.”After retiring from his playing career, Pep made his name as a superstar manager at Barcelona and Bayern Munich before signing in 2016 for Manchester City, netting himself a mega pay-day.While at Bayern Munich, he was reported to be bringing in £15million per year, netting him a cool £45million for the three years at the Bundesliga club.Pep is currently paid £19.7million a year, in a newly-extended deal that expires in 2026.Pulling powerHe collaborated with Nissan… despite having dented many of his own carsCredit: NissanPep was an ambassador for the Qatar World CupCredit: AFPPep reportedly started on £12million back in 2016, and has topped his income up on the side with some smart sponsorship deals.His most eye-popping brand partnership is with Puma, who are also the kit sponsor for Manchester City, in a deal worth £650million.Guardiola is thought to have netted seven figures for the personal collaboration.Previous brand deals have included Nissan, clothing brand Gore-Tex and – more controversially – being an ambassador for the Qatar World Cup in 2022.Home gameHe lives in a £2.7million pad in Manchester, which is also part of a hotelCredit: MENThrough the flat he has access to an 18m poolCredit: instagramSince moving to Manchester back in 2016, Pep has made the city a home and splashed out on a truly lavish flat.He spent £2.7million on the luxury home in City Suites, which is said to be in the “most desirable address” in Salford.It isn’t hard for him to embrace his passion for fashion as it’s next to designer shops as well as high-end restaurants and wine bars. The unusual residence – considering most footballers in the area opt for a sprawling mansion in leafy Cheshire – is in a private section of a 16-floor hotel.The property gives Pep access to an 18-metre indoor pool, an exquisite spa and sauna facilities as well as a 24-hour gym. Other benefits included two private parking spots, a 24-hour concierge team, dry-cleaning services and access to a private executive lounge.  It’s not his only home. Pep also snapped up an 8,000-square-foot mansion in Pedarlbes, the most expensive area in Barcelona, for a mere £8.55million back in 2021.The gorgeous white house has breathtaking views of the city thanks to its position in the foothills of Sant Pere Màrtir mountain.It features a spacious living area, a high-end kitchen, a large private swimming pool and balconies across two storeys to take advantage of the picturesque landscape.While he has two luxurious homes, he hasn’t shied away from renting pricy places too. During a one-year sabbatical in 2012, he splashed out on a fancy New York flat that set him back £19,500-per-month and overlooked Central Park.The Upper West Side abode used to be the home of other celebs including X-Files actor David Duchovny and Barbra Streisand.It boasted four bedrooms, bathrooms, and a study where Pep was said to have learned and practised German before taking over at Bayern Munich.Food for thoughtHe is one of three investors in Tast Catala in ManchesterCredit: Instagram/@tastcatalaIt is currently helmed by a chef whose restaurants have won four Michelin starsCredit: Instagram/@tastcatalaAnd it’s not just homes that Pep’s acquired over the years.He is a co-owner of Tast Catala in Manchester. The eatery opened its doors in 2018 and now has chef Paco Perez – whose restaurants have four Michelin stars between them – at the helm creating the menus. The acclaimed establishment focuses on bringing a taste of the Costa Brava to Manchester and can host up to 120 diners.While it won’t break the bank to dine there, it’s certainly not cheap, with mains costing more than £20. Pep’s also invested in another passion of his: wine.It was reported in 2021 that he had forked out £200,000 on a Spanish vineyard’s finest vintage bottles and reportedly drinks a glass or two after football matches.Friends told The Daily Star that he spent as much as £500,000 on fancy reds including the very best Riojas, prized Priorat and Ribera del Duero labels.A source said: “His main interest is that of a collector of fine vintages, and he sees the value of them as investments… Not only does he enjoy a glass of wine, he really knows his stuff too.”Drive for successThe footie boss reportedly dented his pricey BentleyCredit: BentleyOutside of his property portfolio, Pep has invested in some rather expensive motors over the years. And while they’re said to lose money the second you drive them off, the football boss has certainly managed to lower the value even further with a series of bumps and scrapes.Since moving to Manchester in February 2016, Pep has damaged a series of cars collectively worth £460,000. They included a £200,000 silver Bentley, GTX700, a £150,000 Range Rover, an £80,000 black Mercedes GLE and a £30,000 Mini Cooper.A source said: “Pep is brilliant at many things, but driving doesn’t appear to be one of them, he has struggled with the roads in Manchester and had a couple of bumps.”Pep’s Manchester City recordAfter joining Manchester City in February 2016, Pep had his first season without winning a trophy since he went into club management.The team’s form declined in the second half of the season despite a promising start.Things started to look up in the 2017-18 season after Pep identified the issues in defence the team had. Pep guided City to a record-breaking 100 points and the title, earning him a contract keeping him at the club until 2021.Under his guidance, Manchester City have won the Premier League five times and the Champions League once.They’ve also taken home a FIFA Club World Cup, one UEFA Super Cup, two FA Cup wins, four Carabao Cups and two FA Community Shields.He has also been voted Premier League Manager of the Season four times.This season they are currently sixth in the Premier League, so it doesn’t look like Pep will be adding another title to the cabinet.Authors Lu Martin and Pol Ballus wrote in the 2019 book Pep’s City: The Making Of A Superteam: “Today he’s behind the wheel of his black Mercedes.”He has a reputation from his Barcelona days of being a hapless driver and this is his fourth car he has owned since coming to Manchester.“His wing mirrors don’t survive for long and he’s also managed to fill a diesel Range Rover with petrol and mangle a silver Bentley.”Time is moneyHe owns a series of expensive watches, which double as an investmentCredit: SuppliedHis expensive tastes don’t end with cars and clothes – he also owns an array of pricey watches.Among them was a Richard Mille (RM) RM 27-01 Tourbillon Rafael Nadal, which he was pictured with on a golf course, that costs around £590,000 due to there only being ten in the world.Other ultra-expensive timepieces seen on his wrist include a £455,000 RM 022 Tourbillon Aerodyne, a £75,000 RM 010 ‘Manchester City’ and the RM 004 All Gray, which costs more than £150,000.READ MORE SUN STORIESLast year Pep was seen wearing a RM 67-02 watch – they typically cost £228,000 but his timepiece was a United Arab Emirates edition, which is not for sale.He has also been seen sporting a £55,000 Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Chronograph 5905P and a £12,500 Rolex Cellini. 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      From scratching head in anguish to snapping at fans, the signs of Pep Guardiola’s secret ‘marriage breakdown’

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      THE worst spell of Pep Guardiola’s managerial career has played out in front of the world.But in private, the Manchester City manager has also been suffering the heartbreak of the breakdown of his 30-year relationship with wife Cristina Serra.Pep Guardiola is experiencing his worst-ever season as a managerCredit: GETTYThe Spaniard worryingly revealed he wanted to harm himself and had self-induced scratches all over his head after City’s Champions League collapse to FeyenoordGuardiola had to be held back after confronting a fanChampions Manchester City are a whopping 12 points behind league leaders LiverpoolCredit: GETTYGuardiola has also been dealing with the breakdown of his marriage to Cristina SerraCredit: REXGuardiola was filmed snapping at autograph huntersPep and his wife are said to have gone their separate ways after nearly 30 years togetherCredit: PAGuardiola’s behaviour during City’s wretched run has been put down to him struggling to cope with the unfamiliar feeling of losing.He has snapped at autograph hunters and fans. He has bared his soul in interviews, branding himself “not good enough”.And while watching his team let a 3-0 lead slip against Feyenoord, the City boss became so agitated that he left scratch marks on his face.Now it appears there was a lot more going on beneath the surface – and the signs were there all along.READ MORE ON PEP GUARDIOLAReports from Spain that Guardiola and Cristina finally split last month are a reminder that one of the most relentlessly successful coaches of all time is also a human being with the same problems as anyone else.Guardiola’s on-field issues have arrived in the ninth season of his reign at City, the longest he has spent in charge of one club.But he and Cristina have been an item for more than three decades, after meeting as teenagers in 1994 and marrying in 2014.And the sacrifices as Guardiola tried to find that work/life balance will have been difficult, even at the best of times.Most read in FootballGuardiola and Cristina have been living apart since 2019 when she returned to Barcelona with daughter Valentina, the youngest of the couple’s three children.The explanation given at the time was that Cristina was taking a leading role in her family’s fashion business, Serra Claret, which is based in the Catalan city.Pep Guardiola says ‘I’m the manager and I’m not good enough’ as Man City lose again Although Guardiola made trips back to Barcelona, when the hectic fixture schedule allowed, the pair inevitably ended up leading separate lives.Rumours of a split emerged in the spring. Yet soon afterwards Cristina was in Manchester to celebrate City’s unprecedented fourth title in a row and there were other public displays of togetherness, too, such as a day out at Wimbledon last July.Photos also emerged of the whole family – including eldest child Maria and son Marius – enjoying a summer holiday in Egypt.But it seems as though Guardiola went into the new season with doubts not only about his football future.His City contract was due to expire in June and speculation grew when the club confirmed in October that director of football Txiki Begiristain, Guardiola’s old Barcelona pal and close ally, would be leaving at the end of the campaign.The City boss signed a two-year extension in November as results started to slide.The following month he and Cristina are said to have agreed to end their marriage.And it seems significant that the biggest crisis of Guardiola’s reign at City has coincided with personal difficulties.His recent confrontation with autograph hunters outside his home in Manchester is just the latest example of him losing his cool.After City lost the FA Cup final to rivals United in May, Guardiola reacted angrily to goading from a supporter.Reports in Spain say Pep Guardiola and Cristina Serra went their separate ways last monthCredit: GETTYPep Guardiola has kept a lid on his separation from the mother of his three childrenCredit: GETTYBut the Spaniard has had several out-of-character outbursts this seasonCredit: GETTYAnd as the club slumped from the top of the Premier League to miles off leaders Liverpool, he showed signs of stress and vulnerability that no-one had seen before.After Guardiola scratched himself during the collapse against Feyenoord in late November, he said: “I cut myself with my fingernail.“I want to harm myself.”It was an off-hand comment, a half-joke to explain why what was unfolding on the pitch was reflected in his appearance.But in these sensitive times, Guardiola had to issue a statement soon afterwards, saying: “My answer was in no way intended to make light of the very serious issue of self harm.”Of course it wasn’t. Yet this was just another example of the intense scrutiny and pressure that Guardiola has to live with constantly.And he freely admits he has been feeling it.When asked if he was in any way enjoying the biggest challenge of his managerial career at all, Guardiola said: “I don’t enjoy it all. I don’t like it.“I don’t sleep as good as when I won every game. But that doesn’t mean I don’t have to do it.“This shall pass, I don’t know when, but nothing is eternal, not even our lives. “Maybe it’s more unusual to win four Premier League in a row, right?“So in that moment I was stable enough, I was happy because I eat better and sleep better.”But I was not thinking differently to who I am.”I’m the same person as four Premier Leagues in a row and in that situation, I have the same doubts.”Pep Guardiola and Cristina Serra became an item back in 1994Credit: GETTYGuardiola was adamant that his passion to make City succeed was undimmed and that was why he had signed the new deal.Yet he also left open the possibility that he would not be able to turn things around.Guardiola said: “If I extend, it is because I feel it. I’m not sitting here just for what I’ve done, or because still I’m happy.“Still I want to try. But I don’t want to stay in the place like I feel I’m a problem.“I don’t want to [just] because the contract is there. My chairman knows it.READ MORE SUN STORIES“And I said to him, give me the chance to try to come back. And after if we are not able to do it, we have to change.”But it seems Guardiola and his childhood sweetheart have decided they were unable to carry on and had to make a change. More