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    Inside the mad world of Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, who is worth £2.5billion and owns TWO super yachts

    WHETHER it is in England, his home of Greece, or even Portugal – Evangelos Marinakis is seemingly universally loved by football fans.The Greek shipping magnate, 57, has earned a staggering fortune of around £2.5billion through his company Capital Maritime Trading Corp.Evangelos Marinakis is one of football’s most colourful ownersMarinakis owns Nottingham ForestMarinakis has splashed his cash on toys like this super yachtHe has pumped that cash into his clubs, funding spending sprees for Nottingham Forest, winning multiple Greek titles with Olympiacos and last year he acquired a large stake in Portuguese outfit Rio Ave.It has been reported he plans to add a Brazilian club to his roster, which is why he lured Arsenal’s sporting director Edu on a reported triple your salary deal to oversee his football empire.But away from the game, Marinakis has his finger in other pies too.He runs a TV station famed for its soaps, sitcoms, political shows and the Champions League, as well as some of Greece’s biggest-selling newspapers.Read more football newsMarinakis hasn’t just spent his millions on football clubs, he is also the proud owner of two super yachts worth over £20million a piece.While back in 2021, he was in the news when one of his shipping boats saved 150 migrants from drowning in the Mediterranean Sea.SunSport looks into his mad world.Making moneyThe son of a politician, Marinakis made his billions after founding Capital Maritime & Trading Corp in 2005.Most read in FootballBy 2017, the company managed a mixed fleet of 70 ships.FA hit Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis with STADIUM BAN after furious tunnel blast at officialsThese included tankers, container ships and dry bulk carriers.A year later, they entered the LNG sector by purchasing ten ships capable of transporting liquified natural gas at the cost of a whopping £1.5billion.A year later, they merged their tanker fleet with DSS Holdings, who are bankrolled by New York private equity firm WL Ross & Co in a £1.3billion deal.Together, they have created one of the biggest listed tanker companies in the world.Marinakis continues to plough cash into his business, last year pumping £82million into the company to invest in seven platform supply vessels.One for giving back, Marinakis has put his money into the regeneration of his hometown Piraeus, including restoring playgrounds, building football pitches and helping the homeless by setting up soup kitchens.The man, who has a tattoo on his left arm that reads ‘Dream Love Create Fight Survive Win’, also has plenty of empathy.Piraeus is a port city, and the first entry for refugees from Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq.Marinakis once had a group of people, including Olympiacos staff, welcome those coming off boats with food, clothes and toys for their children.It’s not the first time he has come to the aid of desperate refugees.On his left arm Marinakis has a tattoo that reads ‘Dream Love Create Fight Survive Win’Shipping magnate Marinakis boasts a fleet of impressive tankersIn 2021, one of his tankers saved a group of migrants from drowningIn 2021, an oil tanker belonging to the shipping tycoon came to the rescue of more than 150 migrants who were sinking on a 15-metre wooden boat in the Mediterranean sea.The crew raised the alarm, and with the native coastal guard launched a rescue mission to haul them to safety on the tanker.FootballIn 2010, Marinakis entered the football world by buying a stake in Olympiacos.Incredibly, they won the Greek league seven times in a row from 2010–11 to 2016–17.After lucky number seven, Marinakis set his sights on English football – adding Nottingham Forest to his football club portfolio.A man who isn’t afraid to shoot for the stars, he declared that he wanted the club to qualify for Europe within five years, as well to redevelop the City Ground and transform the team’s Nigel Doughty Academy.Forest were promoted to the Premier League in 2022 for the first time in 23 years, justifying Marikanis’ belief they were a sleeping giant ready to be woken up.Meanwhile, Olympiacos became the first Greek club to win a European competition, after they lifted the Europa Conference League last year – defeating Fiorentina in the final.His next project, after investing around £20million in Portuguese outfit Rio Ave to clear debts and upgrade facilities, sees him working with super agent Jorge Mendes. Fans are hoping for exciting times with bated breath.Marinakis celebrates Forest’s promotion in 2022During Marinakis’ time as Olympiacos president the club has won multiple league titlesOlympiacos became the first Greek club to win a European trophy last seasonread more sport featuresControversyOf course, with so much power and money, Marinakis is one of Greece’s most recognised businessmen.He is a major shareholder in the newsgroup Alter Ego Media, who own broadcaster Mega TV. Not only do they show sitcoms and Champions League football, they pride themselves on their news coverage and aren’t afraid to talk politics.But not everyone loves Marinakis. Back in March, a meeting at his home was the downfall of two Greek ministers who were forced to resign, following a night of drinking expensive whiskey and smoking luxurious cigars.According to Greek news outlet iEidiseis, who published the details of the gatherings, it wasn’t a good look to be wined and dined by the media magnate.There have been further controversies, including a match-fixing and bribery scandal that erupted in 2015 in the Greek league.Marinakis was one of 68 people named, however he denied the allegations and was cleared in court three years later.There was also a wild complaint against him that he was involved in the bombing of a referee’s bakery, which he vehemently denied any involvement with and didn’t even go to trial.Over the years, a number of controversies have followed MarinakisMarinakis was cleared of a match-fixing scandal in 2018PlaytimeBeing a billionaire comes with many perks.Marinakis divides his time between stunning homes in Athens and London.When he’s not there, you’ll likely find him on one of his super yachts.Marinakis boasts TWO – the Amore Mio and Amore Mio II.The former costs around £20million and has a yearly running cost of £1million.It can host up to 10 guests, as well as seven cabin crew in its nine cabins. It is 148 feet in length.The Amore Mio is worth around £20millionMarinakis also owns the slightly bigger Amore Mio II that has 15 cabinsThe Amore Mio II is slightly bigger at 170 feet, and was made by Abeking & Rasmussen in Germany at their Lemwerder shipyard.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt was little more expensive – costing around £25million – and boasts fifteen cabins.Don’t we all wish we could live in a Marinakis world right now. More

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    Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd move sees his wife become rivals with her best friend, business partner and fellow Wag

    THEY were the dream partnership at Sporting.Hugo Viana, as sporting director, sold on the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Pedro Porro, Joao Palhinha and Manuel Ugarte for huge profits.Hugo Viana is getting ready to take the reins at Man Utd from Sporting LisbonSporting Liston sporting director Hugo Viana is joining Utd’s rivals Man CityAmorim and Viana’s wives run an interior design business togetherWhile in came Viktor Gyokeres, Morten Hjulmand, Pedro Goncalves and Francisco Trincao – who could fetch huge fees thanks to their development under the club’s boss, Ruben Amorim.Working as well as they did attracted the Premier League’s big hitters.Viana will join Man City, where he will replace the departing Txiki Begiristain at the Etihad next season.Intriguingly, Amorim now comes in as Man Utd boss and will rival his old pal at club level.Read more football newsBut, it’s not just those two that’ll feel a divide in Manchester.Incredibly, the pair’s wives are best friends and run a business together.Amorim’s relationship with Viana began when they played together.Former team-matesThe two were team-mates at Braga during the 2012-13 season.Most read in FootballAmorim and former Newcastle midfielder Viana also share ties to lower-league side Belenenses FC.Amorim confirmed by Man Utd but it’s a huge gamble and delay to start is bizarreIt’s where the incoming Red Devils manager cut his teeth as a player, while Viana took his first steps as a director at the Lisbon club in 2017.It was Viana who contributed towards Amorim’s rise at Sporting.Back in 2020, he was already two years into his role at Sporting when he hired Amorim as head coach.Viana was impressed by his pal’s single season at Braga – leading the club to a third placed finish in the league, as well as a domestic cup win.“I think one of the best things that Viana did was to bring the people that he trusts like Amorim,” Viana’s former team-mate Helder Barbosa told The Guardian.“He’s a young coach and the people start talking a lot about the money they spend but right now everybody talks that he was not a cheap coach but probably he’s the best coach in Portugal right now and he’s young, so they are closer than ever before.”Amorim and Viana were former team-mates at Braga togetherIt was Viana who was instrumental in Sporting hiring Ruben Amorim as bossread more sport featuresSuccessViana and Amorim formed a unique partnership at Sporting, where they helped the club win two league titles in four seasons.That success came through savvy recruitment.Amorim groomed players like Bruno Fernandes, Pedro Porro, Joao Palhinha and Manuel Ugarte.Those stars would earn big-money moves abroad – boosting the club’s coffers.Fernandes signed for Man Utd for a staggering £68million, while Pedro Porro cost Spurs £40million, Joao Palhinha fetched £20million, and Manuel Ugarte joined PSG for north of £50m, a similar fee to the one he joined the Red Devils for this summer.Big money for a club like Sporting, who spent it wisely thanks to Viana.The likes of Viktor Gyokeres, Morten Hjulmand, Pedro Goncalves and Francisco Trincao all came in, and under the guidance of Amorim their values have now risen to well beyond what was paid for them.That is especially relevant in the case of Swedish goalscoring machine Gyokeres, who was signed for around £17million – but looks likely to move on for £70million plus.Viana, wearing sunglasses, joined Amorim on the bench for a pre-season friendly in 2021Amorim was lofted in the air by the players after winning Sporting a league title in the same yearWivesIt’s not just Amorim and Viana who have a successful working relationship.Amorim is married to Maria João Diogo and the pair have a son.Maria has built her own business in interior design with a degree in telecommunications engineering.The couple got married in 2013 in front of 160 guests at a beautiful ceremony at the Palácio de S. Marcos church in Coimbra.Present for the nuptials were Viana and his missus, Raquel Gomes, who got hitched some ten years earlier.Maria and Raquel are also best friends, who run an interior design business together called Dois Tons.They aim to “create spaces with a unique identity” through their use of “color palette, textures and which are an extension of their history”.Their Instagram page shows off some of their creations, and has around 7,000 followers.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for.Maria João Diogo, left, and Raquel Gomes are best friends and business partnersMaria and Raquel run interior design company Dois Tons togetherMaria and Raquel’s work features on the company’s Instagram pageAmorim and Viana leave Sporting with their heads held high and for pastures new.READ MORE SUN STORIESOne will be red, one will be blue. But how will their wives get on once they become noisy neightbours…?Let the rivalry begin. More

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    Inside departing Arsenal sporting director Edu’s family life, from fiery wife to footballer son and those famous BBQ’s

    ARSENAL fans have been rocked by the news that sporting director Edu is set to leave the club.The good times are back at the Emirates, as the Gunners have built a team capable of challenging Man City at the top.Arsenal’s departing sporting director Edu with his familyEdu has been married to Brazilian Wag Paul for 21 yearsIt has been reported that Edu will link up with Nottingham Forest in a more senior roleCredit: GettyPart of that has been down to the work of Edu, who was famously one of the Invincibles in 2004, who has helped transform the club with a host quality signings.The likes of Martin Odegaard, William Saliba, and Declan Rice have all arrived in North London during the Brazilian’s tenure.It’s reported Edu is looking at a bigger challenge – taking on a senior role at Nottingham Forest to become a chief executive to Evangelos Marinakis’ footballing empire, which includes Olympiacos and Rio Ave.The move could TRIPLE his wages.Read more football newsAway from the game, the ex-Brazil international has developed a cult following.He shares his family life on social media, with wife Paula and their three children taking centre stage on Instagram.While in the summer, those famous memes of him manning a barbecue had Gooners purring over Edu cooking up a huge transfer deal.Family manEdu’s Instagram is almost an ode to his family life.Most read in FootballEdu’s family life is played out on his social media, including wedding dayWhen it comes to party, Edu makes sure he celebrates with his familyAt Christmas time the Gaspar family enjoy a big get-togetherHe shares plenty of personal moments to his 435,000 followers, including his wedding anniversaries over the years.He’s been married to Paula for 21 years, sharing their wedding day to his fans.‘F—ing shut your mouth’ – Ian Wright in X-rated rant at giggling Alan Shearer after Newcastle stun ArsenalAnd the Gaspars love an occasion to celebrate.Back in January, they wore matching white outfits to celebrate the turn of the New Year.Before that, at Christmas, they showed off their family home – posing in front of their tree.Edu and Paula share three children together, that includes their only son Luigi, 20, and daughters Maria, 18, and Isabelli, 11.His wife has always got his back.When the wife got into botherBack in 2021, with the Gunners in a transitional period, things did not start well for Mikel Arteta’s side.The club had to suffer before there were signs of improvement, which meant fans had to be patient.However, tensions spilled over during a home game against Chelsea.With Arsenal trailing 2-0, one angry supporter confronted Edu by getting out of his seat and berating him from the steps.A video was shared on social media showing the tense moment.While Edu managed to remain composed throughout the abuse, Paula could not contain her frustration.After the fan had finished angrily making his point, Paula put her middle finger up at him as frustrations boiled over, demonstrating her willingness to stand up for her husband in the face of criticism.Clearly, Paula isn’t to be messed with.Paula Gaspar is the supportive Wag of EduWhen Edu received abuse from an Arsenal fan in 2021, Paula jumped to his defencePaula told the fan exactly where to go after seeing her husband get stickread more sport featuresFootballer sonFollowing in dad’s footsteps on the pitch is Edu’s son, Luigi.Also a midfielder, he began his career like his father at Brazilian club Corinthians.He joined at U7 level, before representing the club in futsal.When Edu joined Arsenal in 2019, his son linked with up with their academy.But three years later he departed the club by mutual consent.He joined fellow London side Watford in 2022, and has broken into their youth sides.They extended his contract until the end of the season.Luigi Gaspar joined Arsenal in 2019 from CorinthiansA midfielder like dad, Luigi now plays for Watford’s youth sidesEdu’s 35 signings rankedEDU oversaw the arrival of 35 players during his time at the club.Some worked out better than others.Here, SunSport ranks them from worst to best…35. Nicolas Pepe (£72m)34. Willian (Free)33. David Luiz (£8m)32. Runar Alex Runarsson (£2m)31. Mat Ryan (Loan)30. Fabio Vieira (£34m)29. Neto (Loan)28. Marquinhos (£3m)27. Nuno Tavares (£8m)26. Matt Turner (£5m)25. Cedric Soares (Free)24. Albert Sambi Lokonga (£17m)23. Pablo Mari (£5m)22. Dani Ceballos (Loan)21. Raheem Sterling (Loan)20. Jakub Kiwior (£17m)19. Jorginho (£12m)18. Riccardo Calafiori (£42m)17. Kieran Tierney (£25m)16. Takehiro Tomiyasu (£20m)15. Mikel Merino (£28m)14. Aaron Ramsdale (£24m)13. Oleksandr Zinchenko (£30m)12. Gabriel Jesus (£45m)11. Kai Havertz (£65m)10. Jurrien Timber (£38m)9. Gabriel Martinelli (£6m)8. David Raya (£27m)7. Leandro Trossard (£20m)6. Thomas Partey (£45m)5. Ben White (£50m)4. Gabriel Magalhaes (£27m)3. Declan Rice (£105m)2. William Saliba (£27m)1. Martin Odegaard (£30m)Click here to read more Arsenal stories.What’s cooking?When it comes to the summer, Arsenal fans are always hungry for new signings.Bizarrely, some have found a link to their transfer activity when Edu is manning a barbecue.Often, the retired footballer shares clips of him cooking up a treat for his family.Brazilian’s traditionally love grilled meats and fish, and Edu is no different.How Edu made Arsenal great againBy Jack RosserEDU GASPAR has been on a mission to ‘Make Arsenal Great Again’ ever since returning to the club he played for 2019.After a few wobbles early on – signing Nicolas Pepe will never reflect well – the Brazilian has, alongside Mikel Arteta, been crucial in the club’s transformation.Arteta was brought in as the new manager within months of Edu’s return to North London and the former midfielder stuck by the boss when the pressure was on two years into the job.Instead of making the knee-jerk decision to change manager again, the former Brazil international, joined forces with Arteta to institute a huge change of culture at The Emirates.Overpaid toxic influences such as Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang were purged from the dressing room and Arsenal set about adding strong characters.Edu finally got the club competing in the transfer market again, with Martin Odegaard an outstanding capture for the club. In landing Declan Rice ahead of Manchester City last year Arsenal showed they couple compete for and sign some of Europe’s biggest talents once more.Arsenal have become one of the most attractive clubs in the Premier League and one of the most efficient in the market.While there have been big deals for the likes of Rice and Calafiori, there have been smart ones too – picking out value where others have lost hope.Kai Havertz appeared as a surprising signing after a dreadful season at Chelsea. But after Edu gave the German space and support to rebuild his confidence he has developed into a fine asset for Arteta.Edu does not only have a tight relationship with Arteta – who many fans will be glad signed a new deal before the sporting director’s departure – but the players too, always ready and waiting to check in, keep them going.London Colney and The Emirates will feel a very different place for all of them without Edu.He has been seen with a cigar in mouth turning over some steaks and sausages ahead of huge deals that have been completed.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt’s an impressive barbecue fitted with plenty of upgrades, just like the squad he helped build.One wonders if it will be heading to Nottingham with him.Edu puts his BBQ skills to good use with a cigar in his mouthArsenal fans linked their transfer activity with Edu manning his bbqEdu’s barbecue is certainly well stacked More

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    Nottingham Forest vs West Ham set to make Premier League history with unique managerial record

    IT is the Premier League’s first Glove Affair for 31 YEARS.Uniquely among the managerial fraternity, both Julen Lopetegui and Nuno Espirito Santo were goalkeepers in their playing careers before becoming bosses.Former goalkeeper and Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo hosts West Ham on FridayWhile ex-LaLiga stopper and West Ham gaffer Lopetegui makes up the historic clashThe last time two stoppers faced each other in opposing dugouts in the top flight was on Friday, April 9, 1993.Tottenham crushed Norwich 5-1 at White Hart Lane — ex-Colchester keeper Mike Walker was manager of the Canaries, while former England No 1 Ray Clemence was in caretaker charge of Spurs along with Doug Livermore.However, Friday’s clash at the City Ground, as surprise package  Nottingham Forest face under-performing West Ham, represents the FIRST time two permanent chiefs who were former goalies going head to head.Any suggestion you have to be crazy to become a keeper in the first place has been shot down by the Hammers manager.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSWell-travelled Spaniard Lopetegui laughed: “This is a big lie! A very big lie.“Normally the most sensible people in the dressing room are the goalkeepers. Believe me.“You can say they are different but not crazy.”There is an eight-year age gap between Lopetegui, 58, and Nuno, 50, but they are both ex-Porto managers and they crossed paths earlier this century in LaLiga combat.Most read in FootballJulen Lopetegui played 149 LaLiga matches over nine seasonsNuno was called to the senior Portugal squad competing in Euro 2008, replacing the injured Quim, but did not play a matchFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLopetegui, who also coached at Real Madrid and Sevilla, said: “I’m a little bit older than him. “Yes, I remember him as a keeper. I played against him as a coach, too. But we were never keeper on keeper. I didn’t play against him as a keeper.Meet the new Wags of the Premier League season, from a Belgian interior designer to a Portuguese model“Who was the better goalkeeper? Ha, I forgot my time. I don’t remember a lot. Maybe me. I don’t know.”Goalkeepers is a key theme of West Ham’s selection approach, as matchday 10 represents their first league visit outside of London.Frenchman Alphonse Areola was dropped after the 4-1 defeat at Spurs even though he had started in the opening eight league ties.Pole Lukasz Fabianski was given the responsibility for the home match with Manchester United last Sunday and pulled off several great saves to help the Hammers win 2-1 — a result that saw the Old Trafford axing of Erik ten Hag.Lukasz Fabianski was instrumental in keeping United goalless before half-time on SundayAsked if he empathised with Areola’s disappointment, Lopetegui said: “I was a goalkeeper a long time ago. But I understand.“I can change other positions. I repeat, you don’t change one player, it’s not about thinking that something is wrong with him.“It’s thinking that maybe you’re going to be positive with this change.“Sometimes it’s going to happen or not. In football, we don’t have a crystal ball. But we try to take the decision that we think will always help the team.“Did I get dropped? A lot! In my opinion, to my coaches, I was right! It’s like this.“We trust Alphonse a lot. He did very well in this team before. But we decided that in this match, Lukasz was more ready and maybe it was good to put him in for different reasons.READ MORE SUN STORIES“All of them have to be ready to play. It’s up to us to decide who is going to be in or not.“It’s not because we don’t trust them. It’s good, this kind of inside competition, to be more competitive.” More

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    Why Ruben Amorim must SACK Ruud van Nistelrooy now to have any chance of fixing Man Utd ‘s***show’

    WHEN Ruben Amorim arrives in Manchester, he has got a LOT of mess to sweep up in a short space of time.I really like Amorim — he is an excellent coach and everything about him is world class, even the way he has conducted himself in leaving Sporting Lisbon.Ruben Amorim has been confirmed as the new Man Utd managerIt is not yet known if interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy will stay on as part of Amorim’s staffTroy Deeney has urged Amorim to kick Van Nistelrooy to the curbBut he has a heck of a job.I am not saying these United boys are not fit but they will be nowhere near fit enough for Amorim. His Sporting teams run their arses off.There are going to be a lot of ups and downs between now and January 1 and then — oh my God — is he going to have to come out with a broom and sweep the lot.If you’re walking into that s**tshow with that ball of yarn to untangle, where do you begin? Good luck with that, Ruben.READ MORE ON MAN UTDYou’ve got to get rules in place, because sacked Erik ten Hag apparently tried to lead that club like a dictator and, from what I have heard, the Carrington training base is completely divided as a result.The expectation is going to be high because United have just spent over £10million getting you and your coaching team over from Portugal.You’re going to have your own fitness and nutrition guys in.Can these players do what you want them to do? Are they fit enough? Probably not.Most read in FootballRasmus Hojlund has been in and out of the starting XI as United sit 14thFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSYou’re going to have to tweak everything from gym work to the training routines and during that period you will have a few players dropping like flies because of it.I am glad United got Amorim sorted quickly. Had they not, they would have gone down the Ole Gunnar Solskjaer route again with Ruud van Nistelrooy.The new manager ‘bounce’ and 5-2 thrashing of Leicester in the Carabao Cup was always going to happen. It is no coincidence.Ten Hag would have been watching, thinking ‘How f***ing frustrating is this?’ even if he did deserve to lose his job.Bruno Fernandes scoring his first goals of the season and Casemiro suddenly firing in screamers with an Old Trafford hero like Van Nistelrooy on the sidelines.But a club legend taking over, playing a seriously poor Leicester team in a cup, with a new manager on the way… that was always going to be the case.Marcus Rashford has looked a shadow of his former self during the last 12 monthsMeanwhile, Casemiro has been both criticised and praised in recent weeks after scoring three in two games either side of Erik ten Hag’s sackingIt is like when you’ve been with your partner for a long time.You get dumped, so you go to the gym to get in shape to get someone new. It never lasts.And make no mistake, after this weird ‘new-manager bounce’ phase, reality would have hit them again, because you cannot bulls**t it over the course of a season.They’re 14th in the Premier League for a reason.With the games they have coming up after a free hit against Chelsea on Sunday — PAOK and Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League and Leicester, Ipswich and Everton in the Prem — suddenly United could have picked up some points and the board would think ‘Why not Ruud?’But that would just be bulls**ting it again until the next tough run heading into December with Arsenal, Manchester City and Spurs in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.I remember when Marco Silva was sacked at Watford and Javi Gracia came in and we went on a real run.Why? Partly because we were a really fit team and that paved the way for a clean transition. It is a really underestimated part of it.My one bit of advice to Ruben? Don’t keep Ruud on. You want to clear the decks once you are there, with only your people around you.Troy DeeneyThe person who will come out of this the best? Ruud. He will have a nice pay packet. His stock will rise and he won’t be tarnished with Ten Hag’s tenure.Even if United lose 7-0 to Chelsea, Ruud can say: “It’s not my fault. The players were distracted by Ten Hag going and the new manager.”My one bit of advice to Ruben? Don’t keep Ruud on. You want to clear the decks once you are there, with only your people around you.Only then can you figure out what the problems are — and how to solve them.What Man Utd said on hiring EACH of their post-Fergie managersDavid Moyes”All the skills needed to build on United’s phenomenal legacy.”Louis van Gaal”One of the outstanding managers in the game today.”Jose Mourinho”Quite simply the best manager in the game today.”Ole Gunnar Solskjaer “A wealth of experience, with a desire to give young players their chance and a deep understanding of the culture of the club.”Erik ten Hag”One of the most exciting and successful coaches in Europe.”Ruben Amorim “One of the most exciting and highly rated young coaches in European football.”VIN SNUB NOT ABOUT RACEYOU look up ‘Ballon d’Or’ right now and the first name that comes up is: Vinicius Jr.A lot has been made of him not turning up to the award ceremony after losing out to Rodri. Was it petulant? Yes. Embarrassing? It depends how you look at it.Vinicius has been exceptional this year, winning LaLiga and the Champions League, but he didn’t do well for Brazil, and that is what has cost him.You look at previous winners, like Lionel Messi last year — he was playing for Inter Miami but won the World Cup for Argentina.Vinicius Jr was shocked after he placed second in the Ballon d’Or on MondayThat’s what clinches a Ballon d’Or, it seems.Rodri did the same with Spain at the Euros. Had England beaten them in the final, it probably would have gone to Jude Bellingham.In my opinion, Vinicius has had the wrong people in his ear telling him he was a cert to win it and it would be unanimous and, I imagine, that has got to him.He has got caught up in it thinking he is going to be elevated to superstar status.I don’t think we should be making this a race issue, which is what is perhaps being implied by his cryptic tweets in the aftermath.Man City ace Rodri was named the world’s best player – but was hit with controversyTo think you’re going to win it, and then you don’t, it must take a lot out of you, especially after a bad weekend where his Real Madrid side have just been battered by Barcelona in El Clasico.READ MORE SUN STORIESFor what it’s worth, I think he should have won the Ballon d’Or.Should he have gone to the award ceremony? Probably, but let’s not pile in on him too much.Ballon d’Or 2024 results1: Rodri, Man City and Spain2: Vinicius Jr, Real Madrid and Brazil3: Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid and England4: Dani Carvajal, Real Madrid and Spain5: Erling Haaland, Man City and Norway6: Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid and France7: Lautaro Martinz, Inter Milan and Argentina8: Lamine Yamal, Barcelona and Spain9: Toni Kroos, Real Madrid and Germany10: Harry Kane, Bayern Munich and England11: Phil Foden, Man City and England12: Florian Wirtz, Bayer Leverkusen and Germany13: Dani Olmo, Barcelona and Spain14: Ademola Lookman, Atalanta and Nigeria15: Nico Williams, Athletic Bilbao and Spain16: Granit Xhaka, Bayer Leverkusen and Switzerland17: Federico Valverde, Real Madrid and Uruguay18: Emi Martinez, Aston Villa and Argentina19: Martin Odegaard, Arsenal and Norway20: Hakan Calhanoglu, Inter Milan and Turkey21: Bukayo Saka, Arsenal and England22: Antonio Rudiger, Real Madrid and Germany23: Ruben Dias, Man City and Portugal24: William Saliba, Arsenal and France25: Cole Palmer, Chelsea and England26: Declan Rice, Arsenal and England27: Vitinha, PSG and Portugal28: Alejandro Grimaldo, Bayer Leverkusen and Spain29: Mats Hummels, Roma and Germany30: Artem Dovbyk, Roma and Ukraine More

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    Inside Steven Gerrard’s £15.2m-a-year life in Saudi Arabia with luxury mansion as Liverpool legend ‘facing sack’

    THE Gerrards’ “dream life” is under threat.Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard is reportedly facing the sack from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq, after just 16 months.Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard’s Saudi dream could be overGerrard is under a lot of pressure after a shock loss with Al-EttifaqThe Gerrards live an incredible life in nearby BahrainFans and pundits are calling for him to resign following a shock exit from the King Cup.It’s a gig that has made Gerrard, 44, one of the highest paid managers in the world – earning a whopping £15.2million-per-year.That epic salary has allowed him, wife Alex and their kids to live an exclusive life in the Middle East.Rather than live in strict Saudi Arabia, they reside in the more Westernised Bahrain.read more football newsThey rent a £10,000-per-month home on a private estate in the Hamala Village.While Wag Alex, 42, enjoys her time at the Bahrain World Trade Center in Manama, where she gets her shopping fix at the various designer outlets.SunSport looks at how the family is living their best life as expats.Amazing mansionGerrard is one of the highest paid managers in world football, which allows him and his family to enjoy an incredible lifestyle.Most read in FootballWhen he joined Al-Ettifaq, the club gave him a stunning villa in Dammam to stay in.I played with Frank Lampard at Chelsea and we never lost.. but I’d still rather line up alongside Steven Gerrard’Occasionally he uses it, but he also rents a mansion in the Hamala area of Bahrain for £10,000-per-month.Many expats have complained about the strict rules regarding alcohol in Saudi Arabia.So plenty opt for a live across the border in Bahrain, which is an hour’s drive for Gerrard who goes back and forth to the Gulf nation.The Gerrards property features six large bedrooms, a swimming pool, tennis court and games room. It’s in a compound behind a high gate, so their privacy is respected.Steven and Alex often share images of their family house on social media – beaming in photos and looking the picture of health.Neighbours include members of the Bahraini Royal family.The Gerrards have made the more Westernised Bahrain their homeHamala boasts incredible mansions with lots of open space in private compoundsThe Gerrards are believed to be £10k-per-month for their homeWag Alex Gerrard has called her existence in Bahrain as a ‘Dream life’Shopping & SchoolingBack in Liverpool, Alex was a regular at the designer boutiques and the model has always been seen as one of the more stylish Wags around.She has been able to keep up with fashion trends thanks to Bahrain’s lavish malls, while her social life hasn’t dwindled – dining at some of the world’s top restaurants.One of Alex’s favourite spots is the Manama’s World Trade Centre.There, she shops at boutiques including Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Versace.The Avenues, a stylish waterfront shopping centre, is also another place Alex is fond of and offers high-street brands like H&M and Adidas.Steven and Alex’s three youngest kids are enrolled at Bahrain’s most exclusive English language school.It features in the world’s top 100 schools and costs a whopping £11,000-per-year.The Moda Mall boasts designer boutiques that Alex Gerrard lovesThere are a number of malls in Bahrain that offer high street favouritesGerrard’s three youngest children attend one of the world’s best schoolsCredit: Instagramread more sport featuresMembers onlyThe exclusiveness doesn’t end there for the Gerrards.For Alex, there’s plenty of pampering to be had at the many spas and salons on offer in Bahrain, often found in the luxurious hotels.As part of Gerrard’s contract with Al-Ettifaq, the former England star was given free membership to the country’s two most exclusive health clubs found at the five star Four Seasons and Ritz Carlton hotels.Membership for the Ritz-Carlton health club would usually cost around £5,000.Gerrard and his family have also been spotted enjoying the open-air bar in the incredible resort, watching Liverpool games.The family also enjoy spending time at the exclusive expart Bahrain Rugby Club.Many Brits, an estimated 4,000, go there to grab a pint and watch Premier League matches at the big sports bar.The venue also boasts pristine sports pitches.Founded in 1935, a pint costs just £4.50 as opposed to £13 in the rest of Manama.Bahrain boasts first class spas where Alex Gerrard can keep up with beauty regimenCredit: InstagramExpensive date nights at amazing restaurants are a regular occurrence for Steven and Alex in BahrainThe exclusive Bahrain Rugby Club is where a host of expats visit, including the GerrardsCredit: bahrainrfcGerrard has been seen enjoying the Bahrain Rugby Club’s sports barSteven Gerrard will be reluctant to leave Bahrain now after living his best lifeWhen it comes to dining out, Steven and Alex have been seen enjoying steak restaurant Cut at the Four Seasons.READ MORE SUN STORIESRun by Michelin-star Austrian chef Wolfgang Puck, prime slices of beef can cost up to £200.With all that’s on offer, the Gerrards would be gutted if it came to an end now. 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    I’ve played with special talents like Cole Palmer and Phil Foden… Ethan Nwaneri can be one of the best in the world

    GABRIEL JESUS knows a young star when he sees one — and has vowed to help Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri reach the top.The Brazilian watched two of the Prem’s best — Phil Foden and Cole Palmer — come through the ranks at Manchester City.Gabriel Jesus has predicted great things for Ethan NwaneriNwaneri holds the record for the youngest ever Premier League playerAnd he hopes his Gunners team-mate, 17, is on the same route right to the top.Nwaneri gave yet another glimpse of his special talent by scoring a beauty in Arsenal’s 3-0 Carabao Cup win at Preston on Wednesday.Jesus says the playmaker may have to be patient, just like Foden was at the Etihad — but is excited to see how far he can go.He said: “I have been with some very special youngsters, like Phil and Cole — and also James McAtee at City, he is also very good. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“So to see Ethan in training and in the game is good, because I am a fan of football.“So when I see someone young with this quality, I am happy and then obviously I want him to grow, grow, grow.“Then if he needs something from me personally, I am here to help him because I am 27.”Gunners starlet Nwaneri rewrote history as the Premier League’s youngest ever player at the age of 15 and 181 days -smashing the previous record held by Harvey Elliott, who was 16 years and 30 days old.Most read in FootballAnd at 17 years and 223 days, he became the youngest Arsenal player to score on his first two starts for the club — eclipsing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s previous mark of 18 years and 44 days.The Arsenal legend also said Phil Foden had to ‘wait his turn’ before becoming one of the world’s bestJesus watched Chelsea’s Cole Palmer come through the ranks at Man CityCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBoss Mikel Arteta believes he is ready to play more regularly — but he also has a huge array of talent to choose from.Jesus says the youngster should look no further than last season’s PFA Player of the Year Foden for inspiration if he gets frustrated at the wait.’Stay humble,’ Erling Haaland tells Arteta who gives him brutal death stare before Gabriel Jesus confronts Man City ace He said: “I saw people like Phil waiting for his chance and then now, look at Phil. He is one of the best players in the world.“So I hope Ethan keeps his toes on the grass, works, and then it’s a question of time for him to shine.”The wonder strike from the young Londoner overshadowed a good night for Jesus, who ended a 274-day goal drought by opening the scoring in the 3-0 Deepdale victory.The £45million forward admits that is not good enough — but insists there are reasons behind his long wait.He added: “It looks a long time — nine months, I understand. But people need to understand I am starting less, I am playing less.“Last season I had a few issues with injuries and stuff that people don’t understand.“But I am not here to make excuses. I know I am the type of player, with my quality, that has to be there and score more. I want to and I am working really hard to get there.”When he does get his opportunities, Jesus has vowed to try his luck more often.He said: “Now I am more focused on goals. Now I am more focused to shoot.“What has changed for me now is I try to look for the goal.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s good to be back scoring and I want to keep scoring when I have my chance.“I am here to work, try to be fit and, when I get my chance, enjoy playing football and try to help the team win.”Arsenal ratings vs PrestonARSENAL cruised through their Carabao Cup tie at Preston.The Gunners won 3-0 to set up a home tie against Crystal Palace in the next round.Sun Sport’s Sam Dymond reveals who has done enough to feature in the quarter final – and who might be a bit worried.Tommy Setford – 6A clean sheet on debut for the teenager. After a quiet first half, he looked nervous when put under pressure by Preston’s forward.Jurrien Timber – 7Really looking the part in the Arsenal defence after injury. His crosses caused chaos before being replaced at half-timeWilliam Saliba – 7Settled back into the side after suspension, and was rarely troubled on a night where he continually swept up possession.Jakub Kiwior – 8Partnered Saliba admirably in defence, but showed his attacking worth by providing two assists.Oleksandr Zinchenko – 7A solid display before his removal on the hour, perhaps with one eye on the weekend.Jorginho – 7Kept things moving in midfield, and even showed off some sublime skill when the opportunity arose.Mikel Merino – 7A much more confident performance from the Spaniard following his goal on Sunday. Combined well with Martinelli and Nwaneri during the opening 45 minutes.Ethan Nwaneri – 9Serenaded by the Arsenal fans as ‘one of their own’, this talented teenager once again excited Gooners everywhere.The scorer of one sublime strike, he came so close to bagging a second goal too.Raheem Sterling – 7The Carabao Cup king did everything but score. Perhaps let down by his decision making, he’s looking more at home at Arsenal than he ever did at Chelsea.Gabriel Jesus – 8Constantly alive to the ball inside the box, he was rewarded with a first goal since January to get the scoring underway.Gabriel Martinelli – 8Often Arsenal’s biggest attacking threat with his direct running and ability to beat defenders. Replaced after taking a couple of heavy knocks.SubsThomas Partey – 6Replaced Timber at the break and once again did the job asked of him with few complaints.Kai Havertz – 8Scored a superb header shortly after his arrival as a half-time sub, and was an imposing figure in both penalty areas.Bukayo Saka – 6More minutes in the legs for the Arsenal star as he continues the recovery from his hamstring injury.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 6Misplaced a couple of passes after his introduction, but fits in well among the first-team squad.Ayden Heaven – 6Offered a glimpse of genuine pace as he made his senior debut for the final ten minutes. More

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    When football and Halloween collide, from Napoli’s seasonal kit to Barcelona’s scary masks and a sexy Wag as Catwoman

    HALLOWEEN is here, and even football gets into the festivities.The American tradition has seeped into European culture, with footballers and clubs getting into the spooky spirit.Napoli have got into the spirit of Halloween with creepy limited edition kitsNapoli’s ex-star Dries Mertens promotes their spider web shirt from 2022And it’s not just the players and teams, it’s their Wags too who enjoy dressing up.SunSport looks at when football and Halloween collide. Be prepared to be spooked!Napoli’s seasonal shirtIn 2022, Emporio Armani embraced Halloween with a seasonal footy shirt for the Italian giants.Read more football newsThat kickstarted a trend for the club, who at that point wore an all-black shirt with spiders on it.Last season, their traditional blue shirt featured a load of bats flying up on the bottom of the jersey.As modelled above by Victor Osimhen, it gives you quite the fright. Barcelona’s creepy masksIn 2015, the Catalans got into hot water when they took their Halloween celebrations too far.Most read in FootballSeveral donned creepy masks, including of Shrek and Frankenstein, before gatecrashing a Getafe player’s post-match interview wearing them.Football teams that controversially changed their badgeGetafe captain Pedro Leon was miffed and told Marca that they saw the trick as disrespectful.However, Andres Iniesta reportedly called to apologise on behalf of the club, and all was forgiven.Barcelona’s stars gave Getafe players quite the fright post-matchJack Grealish and Sasha Atwood do GreaseJack and his very own ‘Sandy’ dressed up as characters from Grease in Halloween, back in 2022.Grealish perfected the look which included a slicked-back black quiff and a leather jacket slung over his shoulder.The winger even shaved off his beard to get as close to Danny Zucko as he could.Girlfriend Sasha pulled out all the stops too as she dressed up as Sandy, who was played by the late Olivia Newton-John.The model wore her blonde hair in curls and paired her black outfit and leather jacket with red heels.Jack Grealish and Sasha Attwood enjoyed dressing up for Halloween as Danny and Sandy from GreashGrealish and Attwood’s costumes were on point for the occasionChantelle Heskey is CatwomanIn 2014, footballer’s Wag Chantelle – wife of England legend Emile Heskey – hosted her own Halloween Ball at Alderley Edge’s Festival Hall in Cheshire.The do was done in order to raise money for charity, and was attended by dozens of footballers and their Wags.Tanya Bardsley dressed as slasher villain Freddy Krueger, but it was the host who stole the show.She looked incredibly glam as Catwoman, paying homage to Halle Berry.Glam Chantelle Heskey dressed up as a Catwoman for a Charity Halloween Ball at The Festival hall in Alderley EdgeChantelle loves playing dress up for Halloweenread more sport featuresScary TigresMexican football is mad, and their players and fans are passionate people.So when it comes to Halloween, of course they’re going to get into the spirit.Tigres were playing a game against Toluca on Halloween night, which prompted the players to take action.Before posing for a pre-match photo, they put on masks ranging from Batman to a frightening clown, and a werewolf.Amusingly, not all the players were on board with the idea – with some appearing quite bemused by the whole situation.Not every Tigres player was on board with the player’s scary mask ideaWitching hourBenevento Calcio are a Serie C club with a badge befitting of Halloween.On the club’s crest, front and centre, is a witch riding a broom.It references the legend of the witches of Benevento, a city it has been said witches met at during the 13th century.Thus the club is also nicknamed ‘Stregoni’ and ‘Streghe’ – which translates to sorcerers and witches.Benevento Calcio’s crest features a witch on a broomstickAccording to folklore, witches used to meet in the city of Benevento in the 13th centuryValencia’s batLike Benevento Calcio, LaLiga giants Valencia have also embraced Halloween culture within their badge.A huge bat features on top of the club’s crest, which incidentally also appears on the city’s coat of arms.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis is because bats occupied Valencia well before people did, according to historians.Valence was also built upon a swamp, where mosquitos are prevalent. What do bats feast upon? You guessed it. How gruesome.Valencia have embraced bats because they inhabited the city before humans More