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      in Soccer

      Inside Kate Abdo’s intimate wedding as Malik Scott reveals sweet gesture that made him cry and why Carragher didn’t come

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      MALIK SCOTT has lifted the lid on his secret wedding to sports presenter Kate Abdo.The retired boxer and coach of former heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder tied the knot with the CBS Sports star in an intimate wedding earlier this month.CBS Sports presenter Kate Abdo recently tied the knot with Malik ScottCredit: INSTAGRAM@KATEABDOAbdo moved her new husband to tears with an incredible gesture involving their cakeCredit: INSTAGRAM@KATEABDOScott, understandably, was emotional as he vowed to spend the rest of his life with the former Sky Sports presenter.But Abdo moved the hardman to tears with an incredible homage to his first boxing gym on their wedding cake.Recalling their big day in an interview with Genting Casinos, the 43-year-old said: “Kate did something incredibly creative, caring, and compassionate—reflecting the walk of life I come from.”She took an old picture of my first ABC Gym in North Philadelphia, where I was raised—the gym that essentially saved my life.READ MORE ON KATE ABDO”She copied the ring from that gym and turned it into a cake, with me in the ring wearing the boxing trunks I had on when I fought Tony Thompson.”Those trunks had a design I borrowed from Sugar Ray Leonard when he fought Tommy Hearns the second time, but I added my own colours—pink and black with stripes.”She even put herself next to me in a wedding dress.”The thoughtfulness and creativity moved me to tears because it took me back to my childhood in that ring, where I faced many challenges, learned hard lessons and grew.Most read in Sport”That ring always meant the world to me.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSKate Abdo and Malik Scott tied the knot in a low-key ceremonyCredit: INSTAGRAM@KATEABDO”She made sure to incorporate that into our wedding day, placing us both in the ring on the cake—her in a wedding dress, me in my boxing outfit. “The contrast was beautiful, thoughtful, and loving.’Why would you even say that’ says Kate Abdo after Jamie Carragher’s most awkward joke ever on live TV”It was emotional for me because I had never shared my craft with anyone the way I have with her. It’s refreshing and comforting.”In the past, I’d kept that side of me private, but with her, I’m comfortable letting her in—whether it’s film study or talking about boxing. “It’s a special connection that I’ve never had with anyone else.”Scott and Abdo, who went public with their relationship earlier this year, didn’t have an expensive and over-the-top celebration of their love.And there was no room on the exclusive guestlist for Abdo’s on-air CBS colleagues Jamie Carragher, Thierry Henry and Micah Richards.”Our wedding was intimate—just the two of us, really,” Scott revealed. “We didn’t want a big affair. “We focused on each other and the commitment we were making.”It was a godly ceremony on the Malibu hills, just how we wanted it. “My kids were there, and it was important for them to see this meaningful, godly moment.”Watching her walk down the aisle was so emotional for me. Every day I fall deeper in love with her.There was no room on the Abdo wedding guestlist for Jamie Carragher, Thierry Henry, Micah RichardsCredit: CBS SPORTS”I don’t know if Jamie Carragher would have been invited to the wedding. I don’t know.”I don’t know how to answer that because having a bigger wedding was never a possibility. That’s something that wouldn’t have happened.”[But] Thierry, Michah, Jamie—they all sent their wishes.”Carragher was unlikely to have received an invite to the nuptials after joking that Abdo wasn’t “loyal” to her new husband live on air.Scott, however, bears no ill will towards the former Liverpool and England defender.He said of Abdo’s colleagues: “They’re a good group of people. “I may not know the full ins and outs of their status, but what impresses me most is the kind of men they are.”The respect they carry, the pride they walk into a room with. They’re men’s men. And there’s nothing wrong with my relationship with Jamie.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It was never broken. Jamie has a good understanding of how people are, especially in this social media era.”We sat down, broke bread, and had good conversations. I’ve never had a problem with him.” More

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      in Soccer

      Steve Bruce reveals text from Sir Alex Ferguson with cheeky eight-word command after getting Blackpool job

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      STEVE BRUCE is on Fergie time once more as he starts back as a boss – by order of the great man himself.The former Manchester United skipper takes charge of his first game tomorrow with Blackpool after almost two years out of the game.Steve Bruce’s Blackpool tenure kicks off on SaturdayCredit: PABruce exclusively revealed details of what former boss Fergie text him this weekCredit: Getty – ContributorSince his appointment 11 days ago, the 63-year-old has been deluged with messages – some, he laughs, asking : “Are you bonkers?”But the one that meant the most to him came from Sir Alex Ferguson.He reveals: “Thursday morning the phone rang at half past six.“I didn’t know who it was, didn’t have a clue, because the screen came up showing a no-caller ID, so I thought I’d leave it.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“Then all of a sudden a text message comes through from Sir Alex: ‘Congratulations, delighted for you’ etc, etc,etc.“’And by the way. You should be on the way to work’. And that’s at 6.40 am.“Typical him, some things never change. He is what he is.“At Old Trafford he was always in first for training, no matter how successful he was, just ready for another day and another challenge.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“He was incredible and still is. His work ethic was unbelievable and he’s always been such an inspiration.Sir Alex changed my life. He gave me an opportunity which I cherished.Steve BruceMan Utd’s best XI of academy graduates“He made me captain of Manchester United for five years. I’ll always be glad he had such a major influence on my life and career.”Yet Bruce admits that having been sacked by West Brom, the 11th club he had managed before those two years away, he was pining for to get that career going again.The fact that he has now picked up the reigns again, even in the EFL’s third tier at a club that hasn’t won any of its first four games has rejuvenated him.Bruce has never managed below the Championship and twice took Birmingham City as well as Hull City into the Premier League.Amongst other club he took charge of was boyhood club Newcastle United over two years which is why, he knows, some of his pals questioned his decision to step down the ladder.Fergie and Bruce share the same birthday in DecemberCredit: GettyBut he explains: “After West Brom I did a lot of travelling with my missus Janet.“We’ve been all around the world, everything that we wanted to do, seen what we wanted to see.“And yeah, I’ll miss that part. I’ll miss Barbados in January that’s for sure when the wind’s blowing hard around here.“And I’m just as sure Janet will too.“In the first year I just wanted to have a look at it from the outside although there were five or six opportunities then but I forced myself to stay away.“But the last six months the lack of that routine of managing a team, the buzz of Saturday match day, was getting to me.“Whatever it is – a bug or a drug – you need it. Retirement wasn’t for me just yet.“I need a purpose to get out of bed in the morning and all I’ve had in my life is this, really. Football.”What we know about the ‘new’ Old TraffordMANCHESTER UNITED plan to build a new stadium rather than redevelop Old Trafford.The decision was made after a number of fact-finding missions to other stadiums including the Bernabeu and Nou Camp.The cost of the project is expected to be a staggering £2billion.A capacity of 100,000 is expected.It is felt that a club of United’s standing should have a new state-of-the-art facility.The new stadium will be built on land adjacent to the Red Devils’ current home.United are looking to not only build a stadium but regenerate the area of Trafford where the ground will stand.They plan to KEEP Old Trafford rather than demolish it, and use it as a second venue. They will scale it down to a 30,000-seater that can then be used for the women’s team and academy matches.That would mean the history remains with statues and the Munich clock and memorial plaque all most likely staying in their current positions.The club consulted with 30,000 fans about what to do and believe there is roughly a 50-50 split on staying or moving.Old Trafford has been United’s home since 1910.The target is for completion by 2030. That text from Ferguson a couple of days ago certainly found him out of bed early – even if he wasn’t quite on his way to work – and a little long in the tooth or not that buzz is back.A home clash with Exeter City marks his return and he adds : “Most of the messages I got were positive, saying : ‘Good for you. Why not? “Yes, Blackpool are League One but after speaking to the owner it was like, ‘Why not?’ too.“I haven’t got any more ego left in me and so many of my close mates understood that in the last six months I really wanted this life again.“I didn’t know I would be working back at the coal face again but we’ve got a squad that I believe can compete with anybody in the division.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The plan is to get this club back in the Championship.“If I didn’t think we could do that – then what WOULD be the point?”Steve Bruce left Newcastle in November 2021Credit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Eddie Howe reveals he HASN’T spoken to Paul Mitchell in bombshell admission after Newcastle chief slammed club strategy

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      EDDIE HOWE launched a passionate defence of his Newcastle signings after Paul Mitchell claimed there was “no clear strategy” regarding transfers previously.The Magpies boss also set alarm bells ringing by revealing the Toon chiefs have not spoken since last week’s bombshell interview as he addressed the internal “civil war” talk.Newcastle boss Eddie Howe revealed he hasn’t spoken to Paul MitchellCredit: GettyNewcastle sporting director Mitchell blamed transfer struggles on the previous regimeCredit: GettyNew sporting director Mitchell came in for fierce criticism after failing to deliver Marc Guehi or any other top outfield reinforcements in the summer after replacing Dan Ashworth.However, he pointed the finger of blame at Newcastle’s previous regime for their struggles in the last window and claimed the recruitment set-up he inherited was “not fit for purpose”.But Howe, who played a pivotal role in transforming the squad since taking over in November 2021, hit back and said: “I’m very, very proud of every single player that we signed in that period.“It’s easy to look back on any transfer window and make a judgement on the players that you signed three years down the line. Read More on Football”But, actually, you have to go back to the situation that we were in at those moments and when you’re in the relegation zone and trying to recruit players, that’s not an easy thing to do.“You are also recruiting for the long-term and not just the short-term and I think when you look then that work was good.“Our objective was to stay in the league, and I’m not going to critique every signing, but I’m proud of the body of work that we did and the players that we have now from the legacy of those transfers. I think everybody can hold their heads up very high.”As well as convincing Kieran Trippier to leave Atletico Madrid to help Toon fight relegation in his first season, Howe has also brought in a host of young and hungry talents such as Anthony Gordon, Alexander Isak and Bruno Guimaraes.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd all of them will now be worth considerably more than they were signed for.Howe continued: “I’m very, very proud of those signings and I’ve said all along – and I don’t want to make it about old and new structure – but those signings I played a huge part in.Eddie Howe reveals best striker he’s ever worked with who’s scored 58 times this season while on £75-per-goal bonus“I took ownership of all those signings, whether they were good, bad, I’ll take ownership of that as ultimately I was the final decision maker on those signings.“I was very proud to sign those players and I think they’ve been brilliant signings for where we were and the very long-term future of the club and I really believed in them and still do. I’d certainly like to find a few more of them.“We were in a relegation battle so some of those signings were more short-term in that moment because you needed instant results, relegation wasn’t something we could contemplate.“But, always in the back of my mind with every signing I make, it is always about can they impact the team now and impact the team in the right way in the future.“The key thing now is the future and I’m sure we can get future transfer windows right as ultimately that is the most important thing at any club because to be successful you have to recruit well.”Mitchell also claimed that Howe had played more of a supporting role over the past window than the leading one he had previous, to which the Newcastle boss responded: “I don’t think it’s right for me to make individual comments in reply to Paul’s.“I don’t think that will help our current situation and for me I’m just focusing on the future.”’No contact’Mitchell also said he and Howe spoke for “an hour on the phone” each night, but the latter revealed that the pair have not had any contact since the former’s interview.“I’ve had no contact from Paul,” said Howe. “But I don’t think that is unusual. We’ve got different jobs to do, I’m focusing on the football and the team and he’s focusing on his role.”When pressed on why Mitchell went public with his “not fit for purpose” remarks, Howe replied: “That’s for Paul to answer, I don’t think I can answer for him.“The scouting structure was there, and whatever you think about the structures, the results were very good.”Howe was given the opportunity to respond directly and publicly to the criticism, but stated that “it wasn’t the time or place” to do that.As for rumours regarding internal problems between him and Mitchell, Howe said: “As for civil war stuff, absolutely not in my experience.No ‘civil war’ “But I’m cocooned in my work and absolutely focused on the players and the training and that is what I do every single day that I’m here.“I don’t involve myself in politics. For me, this job is very much about the players that we do have and trying to make the supporters proud every time that we play.“Everything else around that I try not to get involved in.”When asked to rate his “bromance” with Mitchell, Howe said: “I don’t really understand the fascination with our bromance and I don’t think that it has to be that way.“I think it has to be a collaboration and sometimes there are moments – I fall out with Jason [Tindall] a lot and that’s probably the closest bromance I have at the club.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We have healthy debate and argument and that’s never been a problem as long as it’s respectful and for the greater cause, which is always the football club and to try and get results.“There is no issue with that but I think that the collaboration part is the most important thing and it’s got to be teamwork for the ultimate aim.” More

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      in Boxing

      Misfits Boxing beauty Carla Jade promises to bash ‘annoying actress’ Nikki Hru and become the lightweight champion

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      GORGEOUS Carla Jade has vowed to “beat up” Nikki Hru in their Misfits Boxing lightweight title fight.The model and ring girl, 34, features on the card at the MF & DAZN X Series 18 event at the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle on Saturday.Ring girl and model Carla Jade is fighting for a title at the MF & DAZN X Series 18 eventJade’s opponent is singer and actress Nikki HruDedicated Carla has revealed she has been training for a year in the build up to her fight for the lightweight beltAnd the stunning brunette has revealed she is more than ready for her moment to shine, after promoter Mams Taylor threw her in at the deep end.She told SunSport: “I have been training all year for this, I just love it – sparring every week and getting really stuck in.”I kept get fights falling through, but I stayed active and kept busy. I was meant to fight in October, but out of the blue I was asked if I wanted a title fight.”I said, ‘You don’t have to ask me twice!’ So I had around five weeks to drop about five or six kilos.Read more Misfits boxing news”I think Mams [Taylor] knew I would be game, and I was like ‘hell yeah’. It was really a dream come true.”I’ve got the shot and I know I’m going to win. I can’t wait to show everybody what I can do in the ring.”Trash talking is all part of the process in the build up to any Misfits Boxing contest. And words have been exchanged between Jade and Hru.Not holding back, Jade told us: “I just don’t see that she’s a good fighter.Most read in Boxing”I’m from real boxing, I’ve seen real boxers, and I just… she’s an actress, and she looks angry and plays the part but I think people are buying into her hype.”In terms of her actual boxing skills and even the cardio, I mean… there are so many things that are not there for her.Ex-Playboy model Amber Fields poses naked in just body paint for Misfits Boxing ring walk before wild scrap with rival”No disrespect, but she is not going to known what has hit her.”For the first two or three punches, I think it’s going to be ‘Wow’.”It’s laughable that she says she’s from the streets and she’s had street-fighting. I think she’s bitten off a little bit too much than she can chew fighting me.I don’t hate her, but she is just so boring. Let me just beat her up so she can go away.Carla Jade on Nikki Hru”To be fair, I’m happy she took the fight because no one else wanted to fight me.”But she’s getting a little bit annoying this week. She’s like that annoying girl at school you just want to say, ‘Go away!’ She’s not doing anything bad. I don’t hate her, but she is just so boring. Let me just beat her up so she can go away.”If she was a skilled fighter, I might have felt threatened. But I don’t fear her at all.”Jade has appeared as a ring girl for numerous BKFC eventsLast year, Jade was victorious when she defeated reality TV star Tash KiranNow, Carla is vowing to defeat her next opponent Nikki HruAs for Elle Brooke who takes on Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship fighter Jenny Savage for the MFB Middleweight Championship, Jade laughed off the porn star’s claims that everyone dislikes her.Jade retorted: “I don’t know her, so I don’t hate her. But I’d like that belt she has.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Who she is and things she does don’t really align with my morals. It’s no disrespect, but we’re just different people.”I’m looking forward to watching her fight. But, with my allegiances to BKFC, I will be hoping Jenny wins.”Jade will feature on the same card as Misfits boxing favourite Elle BrookeJade doesn’t agree with Elle Brooke’s moralsBrunette beauty Jade is looking forward to putting on a show in Newcastle More

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      in Soccer

      David Beckham will lead mourners at Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral as ex manager’s heartbreaking last words revealed

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      DAVID Beckham will lead soccer legends and dignitaries saluting England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson at his star-studded funeral in Sweden on Friday.Becks, 49, was the Swedish coach’s captain during their Three Lions heyday and will fly to pay tribute in person at Sven’s home town of Torsby.David Beckham will lead soccer legends and dignitaries saluting England boss Sven-Goran ErikssonCredit: ReutersThe book of condolence near Fryksande Church in Torsby where the funeral will be heldCredit: Doug SeeburgDavid Beckham’s private jet lands at the Karlstad airport in Sweden todayCredit: EPAHundreds are expected to throng his funeral, which will be followed by a New Orleans-style funeral processionCredit: EPASven’s longtime lover Nancy Dell’olio, 63, will also join hundreds of mourners at a colourful funeral procession staged to celebrate the soccer legend’s life.A source told The Sun: “David will be going to the funeral – he was very close to Sven and wants to say goodbye in person.“It will be a low key appearance – he won’t be giving a eulogy or saying any words but will definitely be there.”Sven – who succumbed to pancreatic cancer in August, eight months after revealing his terminal diagnosis – was England manager for all but two of Becks’ 59 matches as captain.Paying tribute, the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Inter Milan superstar said: “Sven, thank you for always being the person you have always been, passionate, caring, calm and a true gentleman.”I will be forever grateful for you making me your captain.”Beckham posted his message on social media alongside a video of the pair from his visit to see the ailing former coach after he revealed he had “at best” a year to live.The former Three Lions superstar recalled: “We laughed, we cried and we knew we were saying goodbye.Most read in Football”I will forever hold these last memories of this day with you and your family.”Thank you Sven and in your last words to me: “It will be OK”.” David Beckham shares heartbreaking tribute video after tragic death of former England manager Sven-Goran ErikssonSven’s send-off has been organised by his last partner, flame-haired Panamanian beauty Yaniseth Alcides and his children from his first marriage, Johan, 45, and Lina, 37.Glamorous Yaniseth – who has a son from a previous relationship – enjoyed glitzy gala dinners with Sven until a few months before his death.The soccer svengali spent his last days at his stunning waterside retreat at Sunne on Sweden’s Lake Fryken and died surrounded by loved ones.Hundreds are expected to throng his funeral at picturesque Fryksände Church in the nearby town of Torsby, which will be followed by a New Orleans-style funeral procession.The town’s brass band will lead his coffin on a 700-metres parade to the Kollsberg homestead museum where speeches and eulogies will be given.Band leaders will pack a string of Sven’s favourite jazz songs into the 14-minute march intended to live up to Sven’s mantra: “Celebrate life.”Sven sadly died of pancreatic cancer in August, eight months after he revealed his terminal diagnosisCredit: AFPInside the Fryksande church in Torsby, SwedenCredit: EPADavid Beckham was the Swedish coach’s captain during their Three Lions heydayCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdSven delivered a final goodbye message just months before his deathCredit: Amazon PrimeBecks penned in a heartfelt tribute ‘I will be forever grateful for you making me your captain’Credit: Times Newspapers LtdThe funeral will be the biggest ever staged in Sven’s home town of Torsby – population 4,000 – with 200 seats reserved for close family and friends inside the 600-seat red brick church.A big TV screen will be set up outside for hundreds of more mourners expected outside once the pews are filled.Eriksson’s agent, Bo Gustavsson, said Sven – known as “Svennis” in Sweden – wanted “ordinary people” to attend.Guests have been asked to wear black at the service, which will be packed with Sven’s many Swedish pals, townsfolk and football pals from across the globe..Woman priest Ingela Älvskog, 64, was asked to officiate – after the pair became friends when she joined Fryksände Church in 2014.Ingela – who is returning especially after a spell preaching abroad – said: “This is such an honourable mission that I have been given.”He would come to church. He was so nice. I am friends with his family and especially his father Sven.”There are so many good things to say about Svennis. He was a man full of joy and love.”‘A VERY KIND PERSON’Like Becks, Sven’s ex Nancy – at his side throughout his five-year England reign up to 2006 – also said tearful goodbyes after his diagnosis.The former kingpin of English soccer and his first lady reconciled and shared tender moments on the phone up until a few weeks before his death.Nancy said: “It was hard, but he sounded so relaxed and we were laughing and he would just say ‘I feel okay’.“It was quite difficult to even be talking but I tried to be fearless and see how he was. I wanted to get together for another dinner.“I find it difficult being here talking about Sven knowing that he is not here with us anymore.“He was loveable – when you love someone you will love them forever. He was a very kind person.”Nancy later broke down and wept in a ITV interview as she told of her pain at the loss of the “love of her life”.Sven’s aides last night declined to give a full list of guests expected at the funeral – but a string of stars and footy friends are expected.Sven-Goran Eriksson’s managerial careerFOLLOWING Sven-Goran Eriksson’s death from his battle with cancer, SunSport takes a look at his remarkable managerial career…PROMISING STARTIt began in Sweden in 1977 where he won the third division with Degerfors, before he joined Gothenburg and won two Swedish Cups and the Uefa Cup.He then took over at Benfica in 1982 and spent two seasons with the Portuguese giants where he won back-to-back league titles.INCREDIBLE ITALIAN SUCCESSStints followed in Italy with Roma and Fiorentina, but he returned to Benfica in 1989 and reached the European Cup final before losing to AC Milan.Eriksson claimed a third league title with Benfica the following year, leaving in 1992 for Sampdoria.He spent five seasons with the Serie A side, winning the Copa Italia in 1994.Eriksson then added another two Coppa Italias to his trophy cabinet with Lazio across a four-year spell.ENGLAND APPOINTMENTThen came the England job in 2001 where he spent five years at the helm of the national side.He reached the quarter-finals of World Cup 2002, losing 2-1 to eventual winners Brazil.England then suffered back-to-back eliminations at the hands of Portugal at Euro 2004 and World Cup 2006.PREMIER LEAGUE SPELLSAfter leaving the Three Lions following his third major tournament, he spent one season at Manchester City.Spells followed at Mexico, Ivory Coast and Leicester, before he moved to China where he coached three clubs across a four-year period.His last managerial stint came for the Philippines national team, a position he held from October 2018 to January 2019.MAJOR HONOURSPortugal League title x 3 (Benfica 82/83, 83/84, 90/91)Copa Italia x 4 (Roma 85/86, Sampdoria 93/94, Lazio 97/98, 99/00)Serie A title (Lazio 99/00)Uefa Cup Winners’ Cup (Lazio 98/99)Uefa Super Cup (Lazio 99)BBC Sports Personality Coach of the Year (England 2001)Football Association deputy CEO Mark Burrows will attend to represent England soccer chiefs.Sven’s last written words were revealed on the eve of his funeral yesterday – urging readers to enjoy life to the full.He told how he passed on the advice to former player Didier Hamann, who found him cracking open champagne on the day he was sacked by Manchester City in 2008.READ MORE SUN STORIESSven wrote in his last, an unfinished, last column for the Daily Telegraph: “Life is to be celebrated. I always had that attitude.“Celebrate life. That has always been my mindset – whatever is thrown at you.”Beckham will pay a tribute in person at the star-studded funeralCredit: PALina and Johan Eriksson have helped plan the funeralCredit: Andrew TimmsThe former England Football Manager with his ex-girlfriend Nancy Dell’olioCredit: GettyEriksson’s partner of the last 15 years, Yaniseth del Carmen Bravo Mendoza, stood by his side in the final daysCredit: Alamy More

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      in Soccer

      Arsenal star Jorginho, 32, reveals shock retirement plan and admits ‘I’m in trouble’ after getting taste for new job

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      ARSENAL ace Jorginho revealed he is planning to transition to coaching after his retirement.The 32-year-old has become a key figure in the Gunners’ dressing room ever since his arrival from rivals Chelsea in January 2023.Arsenal ace Jorginho is planning to pursue coaching after his retirementCredit: GettyJorginho was initially against becoming a manager but Arsenal changed his mindCredit: GettyAnd the new surroundings at the Emirates changed his mind on something he was adamantly against for many years.The midfielder insisted that he doesn’t want to become a manager once he rolls credits on his career.Arsenal chiefs asked him if he wanted to pursue coaching badges upon his arrival and he initially declined as he stayed true to his previous assertions. The Italy international, however, ultimately caved in and started gaining his credentials.Read More on ArsenalAnd the ex-Napoli star soon found himself “in trouble” as he ended up enjoying the experience and now looks set to follow in the footsteps of his current boss Mikel Arteta.Jorginho told the Seaman Says podcast: “Because of how I am and how much I love the game, my friends back home, my family, since I was 18 or 19, they were always like, ‘You’re going to be a coach’.”And I was like, ‘No way, I want to be involved in football, but no hope or chance I’ll be a coach’.”Then I came to Arsenal and they asked me if you wanted to do badges and I said, ‘No, I don’t want to be a coach’.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”After some encouragement I did them and in the first session I was saying, ‘Oh no why did I do this, now I’m in trouble’. And I think I I’ll go for it [a coaching career] now.”To be on the pitch, with the players, I fell in love with it. It was so satisfying, when you see things coming up and working out how you expected, it was so good.Former Chelsea team-mates Mason Mount and Jorginho embrace after Man Utd’s pre-season defeat to Arsenal “Being on the pitch, seeing the stuff there is different, but it’s really good.”Jorginho has amassed a total of one goal and three assists in 52 appearances at Arsenal.The Italian is likely to start on Sunday’s North London Derby at Tottenham as Declan Rice is suspended, Mikel Merino is injured and captain Martin Odegaard poses as a major doubt. More

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      in Soccer

      Why Mikel Arteta’s new deal is brilliant for fans in the short-term but Arsenal should start looking for successor now

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      ARSENAL fans can breathe a collective sigh of relief.Mikel Arteta is here to stay, for now at least.Mikel Arteta has penned a new deal with Arsenal, keeping him at the club until 2027Credit: GettyThe Spaniard is determined to win the Premier LeagueCredit: PAArsenal narrowly missed out last seasonCredit: AlamyThe Spaniard has committed his future to the Gunners by penning a new three-year deal that will keep him in North London until 2027 and make him one of the highest-paid managers in England.He said: “I feel extremely proud, very excited and am looking forward to what is coming next. I’m proud to be where I am and have the relationships that I have with everyone at the club.”I feel extremely lucky to work every single day with good people and the ambition we have here. I feel very inspired, I feel challenged, I feel supported and I want to do much more than what we’ve already done together.”It is a statement of intent from sporting director Edu Gaspar and Co, with several clubs allegedly having considered poaching Arteta.Read More in FootballReports in Spain earlier this year claimed the 42-year-old was Barcelona’s top managerial target following the announcement of Xavi’s departure.They also suggested he was planning to LEAVE before the end of his contract.However, Arteta swiftly put the rumours to bed and insisted he still has “a lot to do” at Arsenal.In other words, he is determined to win the Premier League.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Gunners have come agonisingly close to lifting the trophy twice in the last two years.They ended the 2023-24 campaign just two points adrift of champions Manchester City following a dramatic final day.How Raheem Sterling can make huge difference to Arsenal’s seasonAnd it was a similar story the previous season.But Arteta has gradually built one of the best squads in Europe and established himself as a top coach.He now wants the accolades to match.Should he add to Arsenal’s trophy cabinet in the next three years, whether that be a Premier League trophy or even the Champions League gong, the Spaniard could see that as his job done.He came to the Emirates Stadium following a disastrous term under Unai Emery and, although it took some time, transformed the Gunners back into formidable challengers.But if he manages to achieve everything he initially set out to, what’s to stop him moving on?Although he dismissed rumours linking him to Barcelona, Arteta has admitted he would love to manage in Spain – his home country – one day.Back in May, he said: “I have always thought that one day I will return. “My home draws me a lot, our way of living, of getting together, the culture – and that means I always have it in my head.”But I am happy here, happy with how they treat me, and I really enjoy my job.”Someday I suppose it will come, I’m not going to be away for my whole life.”Arteta was Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Man CityCredit: Getty – ContributorIf he is able to maintain his impressive record, it would be no surprise to see the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid attempt to lure him back to Spain.A return to Manchester City may even be on the cards, even though that would be a nightmare scenario for Arsenal fans.It would be the perfect example of the master passing the baton over to his apprentice.Arteta spent three years as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at the Etihad, winning two Premier League titles.With the 53-year-old’s City contract running down and concerns over his next move arising, Arteta could emerge as a strong target.After all, he would more than likely have Pep’s blessing.But on the other end of the spectrum, there is the risk – however small it may seem right now – that he perhaps outstays his welcome at the Emirates if things start to head south.Although he made history during his time at Arsenal by becoming the first – and only – manager to lead a team through a Premier League season undefeated, Arsene Wenger found himself almost forced out by the end of his 22-year tenure.The Gunners struggled to compete with their rivals in his last few seasons at the club, sparking a huge divide among fans.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhen Arteta does eventually step away, he will likely want to do it at the right time – especially if a lucrative offer comes in.Whether that be in 2027 or the years that follow, Edu may want to start earmarking future candidates now.Arsenal have a tricky start to the season More

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      in Soccer

      Former Premier League captain cuts all ties with his father as he says ‘he did horrible things to people I love’

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      SHEFFIELD UNITED star Anel Ahmedhodzic has cut all ties with his father – claiming he has done “horrible things to people I love”.The defender’s allegations are the latest twist in a sad saga which also saw him withdraw from duty with Bosnia and quit international football.Anel Ahmedhodzic’s exit from Bosnia duty spilled into allegationsCredit: RexAhmedhodzic has won 24 Bosnia caps but suggested he’s had enoughCredit: GettyAhmedhodzic says he has reluctantly gone public after dad Mirsad alleged he was “under the influence of his wife and mother-in-law”.His father had earlier revealed he “did not consider” the 25-year-old his son “anymore” – suggesting he had been turned off his country by “bad people”.The former Blades’ skipper, whose club lost their Premier League spot last season, responded by accusing his dad of “manipulation, lies, scams and almost daily bullying”.The ex-Nottingham Forest man was “insulted” too by a claim his wife had “cast black magic” on him.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAhmedhodzic explained he’d received hundreds of messages abusing him and his family after he pulled out of Nations League action.He blamed an injury, poor medical treatment and misinformation for his latest problems on international duty.Now Ahmedhodzic has spoken out on issues with his dad as “things can no longer be ignored”.In a statement shared by Balkan cable TV station N1, he said: “The only thing anyone wants from their father as a son is support and pride. Unfortunately, I got very little of that.Most read in Football”What I got most of the time was manipulation, lies, scams and almost daily bullying. “This is the type of man who shows his ‘power’ over women, but has never had the guts to stand up to another man.”Inside Angel Gomes’ rise from Man Utd wonderkid to England starAhmedhodzic added he had a “very good relationship with my mother” and supports her “financially”.He continued: “So when he [his father] says that I don’t care about my parents, it’s a complete lie. That’s not a man. “He goes after people I care about every time there’s a problem.  “He did horrible things to people I love but I don’t want to talk about that here. “There are so many reasons why I cut off contact with him. You will say ‘but he is your father, life is short’.”Trust me, I’ve tried many times to fix things, to forget what he did and every time I fix things, we end up back at the beginning and he doesn’t change at all, not even a little bit.”There have been many occasions when he has publicly insulted me since I married my wife, which he only does to make me angry and get a reaction from me.”Ahmedhodzic also reckoned his dad had “spoiled my reputation in England” with “completely untrue” statements that he “wanted to leave” the Blades. He insisted: “This is the city and the club that gave me the best memories of my life, including the birth of my son.”The Sweden-born ace, who joined United from Malmo two years later, also fiercely defended his partner.He said: “Saying my wife cast black magic on me is very insulting to me and especially to my wife because she is awesome.”It is very hard to find a woman who will take care of you like she does and I am very lucky that my son has such an amazing mother. Ahmedhodzic saw the Blades drop to the Championship this seasonCredit: Alamy”And then say that he doesn’t let me go to national team matches? It’s ridiculous.””She never missed a match, even when she was nine months’ pregnant… She is my biggest supporter and to say she won’t let me go is stupid, but what do you expect from a narcissist?”I am very disappointed, but not surprised that it has come to this. “I never wanted it to be public, but when you have a father who is actively trying to control you, push you down, and hurt your reputation, I had to do it.”Ahmedhodzic’s dad had earlier said: “No one is a better friend to my son than his parents, but when he listens to the wrong people, what happens to him happens.”That’s not my son anymore, I don’t consider him my son anymore. I wish him well. The best. “I fought the whole war, I was wounded three times. I wanted my son to play for the country that I created with my own blood, but he was turned away by bad people who think only of self-interest.” Ahmedhodzic Senior also suggested his son’s wife and her family had tried to separate Anel from his parents.He added: “I hid my feelings when they asked me how Anela was doing, I hid everything inside me.”It was difficult for me to answer the truth, I always said ‘he’s doing well, we talk to each other, etc.. I defended him. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I thought he would understand, forgive himself, but nothing works. They have it under control.”Ahmedhodzic Junior won a single cap for Sweden in 2020 before switching his allegiance the same year to Bosnia, for whom he played 24 times until apparently now having enough. More