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      in Soccer

      ‘He doesn’t feel good’ – Pep Guardiola gives Jack Grealish update as Man City star ‘slapped’ after Manchester derby

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      PEP GUARDIOLA says Phil Foden and Jack Grealish are just two of his stars living in a crazy world.The pair are still recovering from the abuse they suffered in the Manchester derby.Jack Grealish was slapped by a fan after the Manchester derbyCredit: ReutersFoden’s mum Claire was repeatedly targeted by sections of the United supportCredit: GettyMidfielder Foden’s mum Claire was repeatedly targeted by sections of the United support who chanted that she was “a s***g.After the final whistle winger Grealish was slapped around the face by a supporter near the entrance to the tunnel – an assault that produced a charge of assault on the elleged perpetrator.Guardiola described the insults hurled as Foden mother as having “no class” while City officials were understood to have been disgusted.But the City boss who will lead his team against Crystal Palace on Saturday fears there will only be more similar incidents in the future.READ MORE IN football Asked how Grealish and Foden have been, Guardiola declared: “He doesn’t feel good but move forward. It happens everywhere.” The City boss added: “It’s a crazy world, not just in sport. Nobody is away from that. it’s not about united.“It’s not a problem about a specific club or department in world football, it happens everywhere.”Guardiola faces the Eagles with a raft of injuries including Erling Haaland but is hopeful he can still steer City into a top five place – and the Champions League for next season.Most read in FootballHe stressed: “The injuries have been all season. So we adapt.“You can see it as a problem or a challenge or a disaster. it could be worse.  I’m really satisfied for the way we handle it.”New footage shows Phil Foden’s reaction to Man Utd fans’ sick chant aimed at his mum City lie a point behind fifth – placed Newcastle United with a game more played but he says: “We have a chance to qualify for the Champions League next season. “This is what we have to do, especially at home and tomorrow is a team who has been in incredible form in the last two months and they have always been difficult here. “I admire the manager, the talent they have. But at the same time, I’m optimistic to finish well this season.” More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Motorsport

      ‘Unstable’ – F1 hit by shock resignation as FIA chief quits with blunt statement and George Russell slams leadership

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      GEORGE RUSSELL slammed the FIA’s “unstable” leadership as the sport was thrown into turmoil yesterday.FIA executive Robert Reid resigned yesterday over what he described as a “fundamental breakdown in governance standards”.George Russell wants more trust placed in the teams to work with the FIACredit: EPACarlos Sainz was also scathing in his assessmentCredit: EPAScottish executive Reid was appointed in 2021 when current FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem was elected, but the pair have fallen out in recent years.When Mercedes ace Russell, director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, was asked about Reid’s resignation, he said: “Unfortunately, I think every time we hear some news from that side of the sport, it’s not a big surprise.”As we keep saying, it’s like, what’s next? It’s a shame to see, and hopefully we get more stability sooner rather than later.”It’s getting to a point now where these things are happening so often, and as drivers we’re trying to get involved, in the past, we didn’t really make much headway.RED MORE IN SPORT“Things seem to continuously be going in an unstable direction.“I’ve got to be honest, we’re getting to a point now where our actions are having little impact with those guys, and we’ve got to trust in the teams and Formula 1 to work with the FIA to come to a common ground.“If we can help, we want to be there, but often it just seems like things are going in their own direction.”Reid’s departure is the latest in a string of high-profile resignations at the FIA over the last 18 months.Most read in MotorsportBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBen Sulayem has been under fire in the last few years, following various controversies including the FIA’s swearing rules earlier this year.Reid said in his resignation letter: “When I took on this role, it was to serve the FIA’s members, not to serve power.Max Verstappen claims he has ‘lost all respect’ for F1 star George Russell in X-rated rant”Over time, I have witnessed a steady erosion of the principles we promised to uphold.“Decisions are being made behind closed doors, bypassing the very structures and people the FIA exists to represent.”My resignation is not about personalities. It is about principles.“Motorsport deserves leadership that is accountable, transparent and member-driven. I can no longer, in good faith, remain part of a system that does not reflect those values.”On the grid at Suzuka, Sainz reported to the FIA medical team with a stomach issue. After receiving treatment and using the toilet, the Williams driver was late to the national anthem ceremony – something all drivers must attend or risk a fine.The FIA punished Sainz with a €20,000 fine, half of which is suspended for 12 months providing he does not repeat the rules breach, while the fine is usually €60,000.He said: “I was five seconds late, and to be five seconds late and have to pay 10,000, it’s for me, out of the question that we’re having to pay this money.”“I don’t know if I’m gonna get a fine saying this but, s*** happens.”It is not yet known if Sainz will be fined for the swearing incident, with the ex-Ferrari driver in talks with the FIA over whether it will be referred to the stewards.Drivers like Lewis Hamilton have also come under fire for tattoos and piercings in recent years and Russell believes Sainz’s toilet punishment was over the top.He added: “It’s not quite as straightforward as people may think for us to be there on time. Read More on The Sun“We’re often running to the toilet, and there’s sometimes no toilets available between the time you jump out of the car and go into the anthem, and you’ve got people on the grid, or people asking for a quick interview.”He added: “It’s a pretty expensive poo!” More

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      in Soccer

      Former Premier League star-turned-manager wears PINK TUXEDO on touchline as he’s compared to Simpsons character

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      FORMER Premier League midfielder Segundo Castillo has combined coaching with the catwalk… by sporting a PINK TUXEDO during a game.The ex-Ecuador international star loan spells with Everton and Wolves between 2008 and 2010.Segundo Castillo explained why we wears such spectacular outfitsCredit: ReutersThe ex-midfielder likes to make his Barcelona SC players ‘smile’Castillo’s tuxedo couldn’t quite inspire his team to victoryCredit: AFPCastillo, nicknamed Sir Second Castle, now manages home-country club Barcelona SC.And the 42-year-old went the extra mile to produce a smile for their Copa Libertadores clash with Argentina’s River Plate in Buenos Aires on Tuesday.Castillo stunned onlookers by wearing a flamboyant pink dinner jacket as he saw his side earn a commendable 0-0 draw.The fashion-loving former footballer has previously donned black and white tuxes for Barcelona games.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut his latest sartorial statement drew plenty of derision online – including memes of Marge Simpson, a character from animated TV show The Simpsons, wearing a pink dress.Castillo said: “When I come out of my dressing-room and my players see me like this, it makes them smile and makes them feel more free for a moment.”The players can tell they are being well looked-after.  “There is a good atmosphere between them and the coaching staff.”Most read in FootballThe ex-Everton and Wolves loanee produced a smile as dazzling as his attireCredit: ReutersCastillo believes his outfit helps his players look on the bright sideCredit: GettyCastillo made nine Prem appearances for Everton, and scored a UEFA Cup goal against Standard Liege.The anchorman went on to play eight times for Wolves, this time on loan from Red Star Belgrade.Glamorous Ecuador fan in just bikini and fishnet stockings goes viral as fans ditch Euro 2024 for Copa AmericaHe later played for six clubs in South America, including Barcelona SC, plus Saudi team Al-Hilal.Castillo retired as a player in 2020, taking the permanent Barcelona boss job last year following two spells as interim chief. More

    • 300 Shares159 Views

      in Boxing

      ‘People talk a lot of s***’ – KSI defended by his coach for being spotted at concert a week after pulling out of fight

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      KSI has been defended by his boxing coach after being spotted at an Usher concert – one week after pulling out of his fight with Dillon Danis. The YouTuber was due to face MMA star Danis on March 29 in Manchester – but he withdrew with a week to go after falling ill. KSI was spotted at an Usher concert a week after pulling out of fighting Dillon DanisAlexis Demetriades is the coach of KSIBut Danis hit out at KSI after the British social media sensation was spotted at an Usher concert at the O2. Derek Chisora posted a video on his Instagram story showing KSI in attendance and Danis said: “You can’t make this s*** up. “@KSI faked the sniffles. He’s a scared little b***h. I was told he couldn’t get out of bed, and he’s out on the night of the fight? WTF.”KSI’s trainer Alexis Demetriades has since spoken out in defence of the Misfits Boxing co-founder. READ MORE IN BOXINGDemetriades said on Fred Talks Fighting: “It’s quite a strange one for people to jump on that because let’s say I’ve hurt my hand and it’s really hurt, doesn’t mean I can’t go to a concert.”I’m not fighting anymore, I can’t train and put my heart rate at max zones and do my VO2 Max and kill myself in sparring because I can’t fight.”It doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy my life and go out. I think because he’s a high-profile kid a lot of people talk a lot of s*** online like, ‘Why’s here there? What’s he doing?'”He’s been on antibiotics and he’s ill and he can’t fight – doesn’t mean he can’t enjoy his life. It’s a very different scenario.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”I think people read a bit too much into it. He’s a young man that needs to let off some steam. “If he wants to go out and go to a concert, I don’ think there’s an issue with that.KSI issues worrying statement on health battle and gives major update on boxing career after latest fight collapse “He’s been ill for a month off with two sets of antibiotics and a lot of pressure for him to make this work and it didn’t work out.”KSI, 31, is yet to return since suffering defeat for the first time, losing a controversial decision to Tommy Fury, 25, in October 2023. He was due to fight in August but pulled out with an injured hand before his most recent illness. And KSI – who founded Misfits to home to celebrity-style crossover bouts – even refused to confirm if he will fight again. But coach Demetriades does expect the Britain’s Got Talent judge to fight again and opened the door to a bout with Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. He said: “We’d love that fight, I think stylistically it’s a great fight.”And also, because the fight everyone wants and we want is the Jake Paul fight and obviously he doesn’t necessarily want it at the moment.”That’s a great idea for people to see JJ fight somebody that orthodox, that’s 200+lb right now that’s got 56 wins and won a world title. It’s quite a good look for JJ.”He’s been on antibiotics and he’s ill and he can’t fight – doesn’t mean he can’t enjoy his life. KSI’s trainer Alexis DemetriadesChavez – son to the legendary Mexican Julio Cesar Sr – held the WBC middleweight world title from 2011-2012. And he went 12 rounds with Canelo Alvarez in 2017 but has suffered inconsistent form of late. Chavez, 39, was beaten by UFC great Anderson Silva, 49, in 2021 but did beat MMA middleweight Uriah Hall in a crossover boxing bout last summer. He was in talks to fight KSI earlier in the year and has also been linked with facing Paul, 28, in the past. Demetriades also talked down a tune-up fight – despite KSI’s inactivity in the ring. He said: “I’m not about warm-up fights, personally. “I don’t think we need warm-up fights. I think what you do is get a fight camp and go straight into a fight.Read More on The Sun”As far as I’m concerned the sparring that we have and the pressure we put on KSI, he’s a game day kid. He performs on game day.”When he comes out to fight he comes out to fight. I’m not worried about him performing, that’s what he does. He’s very, very good at that.”Julio Cesar Chavez Jr is linked with fighting KSICredit: Esther Lin/MVP More

    • 250 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘I’m doing your job’ – John Terry and Mark Clattenburg in furious bust-up as they reignite rivalry at Baller League

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      CHELSEA legend John Terry and ex-Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg rolled back the years as they locked horns at Baller League.Terry, 44, and Clattenburg, 50, clashed numerous times during their peak years in the Prem.Chelsea legend John Terry clashed with iconic Premier League referee Mark ClattenburgCredit: X @SkyFootballTerry and Clattenburg rolled back the years at Baller LeagueCredit: Getty – ContributorTerry and Clattenburg’s most famous clash took place 10 years agoCredit: Getty Images – GettyAnd the pair gave fans a trip down memory lane on Monday at the Copper Box Arena in London.The ex-England international is among the Baller League’s celebrity managers as he’s coaching the 26ers.And the former centre-back saw his team pick up a thrilling 3-3 draw against RTW.However, tensions flared when former Manchester United player Josh Harrop was sent off for two minutes for a bad tackle on 26ers’ Sak Hassan, who was making a break down the left flank.Read More on ChelseaThat immediately led to a mini brawl between the two sides on the pitch. And minutes later, Terry lashed out at Clattenburg over what appears to be a decision involving the 26ers having to drop the ball and give their opponent possession.The Chelsea great was heard yelling, “I’ve got to do your job for you” towards the experienced match official.Baller League rules dictate that a manager can use one referee challenge during a match.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHowever, Terry opted against using one of those on this occasion.The two Premier League icons have had several confrontations in the past and perhaps their most famous clash took place 10 years ago.Chelsea legend John Terry goes on 5k run in preparation for London Marathon That was when Chelsea beat West Brom 3-2 at the Hawthorns in a heated match that saw Terry getting sent off with a direct red card.The legendary defender was penalised for denying Salomon Rondon a clear goalscoring opportunity.And Terry protested for a long time in front of Clattenburg until he finally walked down the tunnel. More

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      in Soccer

      ‘You guys are my heroes’ – Emotional moment Michail Antonio meets paramedics who saved his life after horror car crash

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      WEST HAM star Michail Antonio touchingly sat down with the “hero” paramedics who helped save his life after his terrifying car crash.The 35-year-old crashed his Ferrari FF into a tree in Epping, Essex on a stormy December 7 and was rushed to hospital.Michail Antonio met the paramedics that saved his lifeCredit: BBCAntonio sat down with first responders Rob Moon and Dr James MoloneyCredit: Essex & Herts Air Ambulance TeamThe West Ham striker went to Essex and Herts Air Ambulance HQAntonio crashed his Ferrari FF into a tree in December and broke his legThe striker required surgery on a shattered femurHe suffered a broken leg in the accident and underwent surgery the following day.And now the Hammers’ record Premier League goalscorer has personally shown his appreciation to the men who helped him cheat death.Antonio met with the two first responders Rob Moon and Dr James Moloney on the BBC’s Morning Live show.The striker cannot remember the crash so he met with the heroic Essex and Herts Air Ambulance crew to “fill in the blanks”.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAfter meeting them in an ambulance hangar, Antonio began: “I want to say thank you because I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you guys.”So you guys are basically my heroes.”Antonio’s accident happened during Storm Darragh, which meant the air ambulance helicopter couldn’t take off due to strong winds. Dr Moloney and Moon – who were dispatched to the scene in a rapid response car – said they thought they recognised the Premier League footballer straight away.Most read in FootballAntonio was shocked to learn that the medics found his lifeless body in the back seat after noticing his fractured femur bone.As football fans, the paramedics clocked that they were helping a Premier League striker.Michail Antonio given hero’s welcome as he returns to West Ham for 1st time since escaping death in horror Ferrari crashBut their suspicions were confirmed after spotting a clue – his No 9 ‘Antonio’ shirt in the foot-well. Dr Moloney said: “We treat everyone the same whatever happens. But not many people have a shirt with their name on the back.”To get Antonio talking, the medics spoke to him about football, including his different managers and career highlights.The pair revealed that he was talking a lot and speaking repetitively, which is common when people bump their heads. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you guys.Michail AntonioBBCThe medics put him on a trolley before boarding him onto the ambulance, and tried to keep him warm.Antonio added: “For me, personally, I could never do your job. “If I go there and see blood or people in trouble, I would just panic or faint. It’s definitely something I wouldn’t be able to do.”The seriousness of it hit home when the forward saw the remains of the car at a scrapyard a few weeks ago.The former Nottingham Forest star explained: “Being involved in a major accident can have life-changing physical and mental effects.”I’ve processed it to a certain degree, but I think the emotions are going to take a long time. Mentally, trauma lasts a long time.”Antonio was shocked to find out that the medics found his body in the back seatCredit: BBCThe West Ham striker signed merch for the crewAntonio said the medics were his heroesHe also revealed that it was harder for his loved ones to see him that way.He said: “My family probably experienced the incident more than I did. “They had to see how I was in the hospital. I don’t remember my face being cut or going down for surgery the next day. “They lived it. They have those memories.”While there was some initial doubt as to whether or not he would ever play football again, Antonio is determined to get back on the pitch.He previously told the BBC: “The most difficult part is that I almost wasn’t there for my children.”It’s just made me happy, positive about life, because I’ve got another chance at life.”During this, we kept it away from the kids. My eldest saw it, and he struggled with it.”Not many people have a shirt with their name on the back.Dr James MoloneyBBCAntonio would watch West Ham games weekly throughout the early stages of his recovery to motivate him.The Hammers icon admitted that hearing his name being sung by supporters “helped him massively”.Read More on The SunHe made an emotional return to the London Stadium for West Ham’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle last month.Antonio has also been able to return to light training. More

    • 250 Shares119 Views

      in Boxing

      Frank Warren claims Joe Joyce ‘needs to have a serious think’ about retiring with risk of ‘consequences down the road’

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      FRANK WARREN says Joe Joyce needs to consider retirement for the sake of his long-term health after another punishing loss.The 39-year-old Putney heavyweight lost a unanimous decision to Croatia’s Filip Hrgovic, 32, on Saturday night in Manchester.Frank Warren says Joe Joyce needs to consider retirementCredit: GettyJoyce was beaten over 12 rounds by Filip HrgovicCredit: ReutersThere was no shame in the defeat but it was another ten-round exhibition of Joyce’s steadfast determination to use his own face as his only defence.And promoter Warren — who guided The Juggernaut to excellent wins over Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker — is now concerned what permanent damage defeats to Zhilei Zhang, Derek Chisora and now Hrgovic has done.The Queensberry promoter said: “Joe needs to have a serious think about his future “There’s no rush but that is what he has to do now.“He will want to fight, I know he will, but he needs to sit down with his family and have a real serious think about the future, because it will not be an easy road back for him. Whatever he does, we will support him.READ MORE IN BOXING“But, in boxing, as you get older — and you fight the way Joe does — you have to think about what the consequences could be down the road. “He’s a lovely man, one of the best people I have ever worked with And I just want the best for him now.”Worryingly Joyce, who also did thousands of explosive and gruelling rounds with Anthony Joshua when they were on Team GB, is already thinking about his next fight.He said: “I am still enjoying what I am doing and I feel good. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“A lot of people want to see me fight Dillian Whyte, so I will reflect on this fight, with my team, and see what’s coming next. I will reflect and come back.”But ringside pundit and former British super-middleweight champion Paul Smith pleaded with Joyce to hang up his gloves. My dad is Coronation Street legend Des Barnes – now I’ve swapped acting for pro boxingHe said: “I hope I never see Joe Joyce in a boxing ring again.“I felt uncomfortable watching that because this is an unforgiving sport and it’s his health we are all worried about. “I am not being cruel to him but I didn’t like what I saw in there. It was an entertaining fight but only because of how many shots Joe takes and just keeps going.“In boxing you need people around you who care about you and love you, who will say ‘no more’ because you have got to think about your long-term health.”But he refused to retireCredit: PA More

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      in Soccer

      How Martin Odegaard’s Real Madrid career began with Cristiano Ronaldo ‘PR exercise’ under unenthusiastic Carlo Ancelotti

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      IT remains one of the most iconic substitutions in Real Madrid’s long and illustrious history.With 58 minutes on the clock on the final day of the 2014-15 LaLiga season and with Real leading Getafe 5-3 at the Bernabeu, Cristiano Ronaldo’s No 7 lit up the fourth official’s board.Cristiano Ronaldo gave way for Martin Odegaard’s Real Madrid debutCredit: GettyCarlo Ancelotti’s former assistant Paul Clement spoke exclusively to SunSportCredit: GettyReplacing the Portuguese legend, who had scored a first-half hat-trick, was No 41 Martin Odegaard, the youngest Los Blancos player to make a competitive appearance at 16 years and 157 days.It is a record that still stands a decade later.With manager Carlo Ancelotti serving a suspension up in the stands, it was trusted assistant Paul Clement who orchestrated the substitution from the dugout.English coach Clement, 53, told SunSport: “I’ve got a really nice picture at home.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“I’m in the background but you can see Cristiano welcoming Martin on to the pitch and he gets a good welcome from the crowd.“Carlo didn’t come down to the dressing room at half-time. We spoke on the phone. “He said, ‘Let’s do the substitution’. I didn’t tell Martin but I did tell Cristiano.“Cristiano asked, ‘Who’s going to come on for me?’ I told him and he said, ‘OK’. I told Martin to go and enjoy it. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Play simple. The last thing he needed was to be bombarded with information. What a moment for a young man to make his debut.“The youngest player in the history of the club, at the Bernabeu, 80,000 fans, coming on for arguably one of the greatest players ever. A special debut, for sure.”Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta will be missing four defensive starters for a mammoth Champions League quarter final Nearly a decade on and Odegaard, now 26, is preparing to lead Arsenal out in a Champions League quarter-final against Ancelotti’s Real Madrid tomorrow.Memories will come flooding back. The Norwegian has said his headline-making £3.5million switch from Stromsgodset to Madrid in 2015 was the making of him — turning down the likes of Bayern Munich, Arsenal and Liverpool in the process.But he is the first to admit he struggled and there were those who believed it would break him.In his 2016 autobiography Quiet Leadership, Ancelotti described the move as a “PR exercise”.He wrote: “[Odegaard] could go on to be the best player in the world after I’m gone, but I’m not interested in the signing. He is being recruited for the future, for other managers after my time.”On top of that, Odegaard — who already had three senior caps for Norway — was walking into one of the most intimidating dressing rooms in world football with Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos and Karim Benzema.Clement remembers the media frenzy that followed.Paul Clement with Carlo Ancelotti in 2014Credit: GettyHe explained: “Madrid is not an easy club to say ‘no’ to. You’re never sure when it’s going to come around again.“There are many players a lot of people will not even remember or know the names of because Madrid was too big for them and they didn’t make the grade. But Martin dealt with it very well.“I’m sure it was quite daunting. You never know what’s going on internally with somebody. He was quiet, humble but good to coach.“In training, he could hold his own with his technical quality. He was a sensation, wasn’t he? He had the dedication, too.“I would work alongside him. He was constantly practising his weaker foot, passing over different ranges, finishing . . .”Odegaard’s arrival not only ruffled Ancelotti’s feathers but also those of Zinedine Zidane, who was coaching Madrid’s Castilla reserve team and was forced to pick the young rookie despite him spending most of the week training with the first team. Cristiano asked, ‘Who’s going to come on for me?’ I told him and he said, ‘OK’. I told Martin to go and enjoy it. Paul ClementClement, who left Madrid in May 2015 following Ancelotti’s sacking, said: “We tried to find a balance but it was not an ideal situation. It was probably a bit weird for Martin.”By December 2020, Odegaard was 22 and had played just 489 minutes for Madrid in almost six years, having been on loan at Dutch sides Heerenveen and Vitesse, plus LaLiga outfit Real Sociedad, before a six-month stint at Arsenal from January 2021 that led to a permanent £30m switch that summer — two months after Ancelotti’s Madrid return.So, the question remains: was joining Madrid so young the right decision?Clement said: “I’d be interested to speak to him now, as a grown man, about how he was feeling inside. “I don’t think there was any doubt about the talent. It was just his physical maturity, understanding of the game.“When I look back, the best move for him would have been at a club like Ajax. He would have played regularly, really developed.“But the loan moves he took at that time in his career, he needed. He had to take a couple of steps back to go forward. He’s shown great resilience in doing that.Read More on The Sun“You look at what he is now — he’s an elite player at a great club. It worked out well for him.“I was thinking the other day whether Martin could play in Real Madrid’s current team? Yeah, for sure.”Martin Odegaard is now the Arsenal captainCredit: GettyAncelotti is now in his second spell in charge of Real MadridCredit: Getty More