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      Meet Ibrahim Rabbaj, 15-year-old English Chelsea wonderkid compared to Messi with 52 goals and 60 assists in 40 games

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      CHELSEA have splashed the cash on wonderkids over the last few transfer windows – but their biggest star could already be at the club.Meet 15-year-old Ibrahim Rabbaj, whose diminutive dribbles and wand of a left foot have him compared to Lionel Messi.Ibrahim Rabbaj is England and Chelsea’s future starCredit: Instagram @ibz_cfcThe youngster has been tearing up youth-team football with his unstoppable dribbling and clinical left footCredit: GettyRabbaj with ex-Chelsea star and fellow Moroccan Hakim ZiyechCredit: @ibz_cfcThe youngster has scored a sensational 52 goals in 40 games.Add a whopping 60 assists to those stats and it is clear to see why he has been called up to the England Under-16s squad, with him also eligible for Morroco.PLAYING STYLEAlready there have been numerous comparisons to Messi. Not just the hair either which is cut into that distinctive bob-style like Leo.Being mentioned in the same breath as arguably the greatest player of all time piles on the pressure of expectation and prompts opponents to kick lumps out of you.READ MORE ON BOY WONDERSHe is diminutive and operates in the middle or outside on the right. Rabbaj loves creating, passing, making things happen and scoring. He is excellent at one on ones and his preferred job is to cut in from the right side, onto his left foot and find the opposite bottom corner of the net. Dare we say it, but a bit like Cole Palmer and former Chelsea great Arjen Robben.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDespite being on the small side, Ibrahim uses his body strength well playing for Chelsea and England Under-16s. He has been in every international camp for the past year.RISE TO THE TOPOne of six kids in his family and raised in Ashford, Kent, he was picked up by Charlton aged seven and went to pre-academy. Their South London neighbours, Crystal Palace then swooped for him and he was there until aged around 12.A look at Chelsea’s forgotten wonderkidsHe came to the attention of Chelsea during Covid but was still signed by The Blues because they felt a duty to give the young lad a sense of belonging, even though with the pandemic in full swing, there was not even any training to be done.His dad is Moroccan and he could play for them but so far has represented England. Ironically, even scoring one of his best goals to date against his ancestral homeland.Rabbaj is at Chelsea full-time now, including for his schooling and lives with eight other boys with a host family. GCSEs beckon next summer.EXPERTS’ VIEWHe has played for Chelsea U17s in pre-season during mixed age group games. A ‘classic no.10’, it will be interesting to see as he gets older how he handles the age gap. Those closest to the player want to see him let loose through the middle of the pitch in order to drive at opponents and recreate the days of old when players of smaller stature could use their mobility and technical ability to great advantage against bigger opponents.The people around Ibrahim want to see him operate like Romania legend Gheorghe Hagi, or Yossi Benayoun, who may be more familiar to Premier League fans.He has been compared to Lionel MessiCredit: Instagram @ibz_cfcWHAT’S NEXT?Crunch time approaches when he should be offered at least a scholarship by Chelsea but in football who knows? The club lost winger Rio Ngumoha to Liverpool recently, who slipped through the net, so Chelsea’s youth coaches need to stay on their toes.Retained youth players get two years with a scholarship. The best are offered a year ‘pro’ on top of that. Which would mean Rabbaj would effectively become a professional footballer at 17.READ MORE SUN STORIESSometimes clubs even offer just one year scholarship and two years of a pro contract. Rabbaj is exciting to watch and considered by those who watch him regularly as a hugely exciting talent.He is eligible for England and MorroccoCredit: Instagram @ibz_cfc More

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      Panathinaikos 1 Chelsea 4: Joao Felix gives Enzo Maresca selection headache with double as Blues go top of table

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      ON this evidence Enzo Maresca should win his first Chelsea trophy at a canter this season.His Blues strolled past Panathinaikos without much need to engage their brains, let alone work up a sweat.Chelsea run riot in AthensCredit: RexThe biggest resistance offered in Athens was a crafty supporter armed with a green laser pen – trying but failing to put off the Chelsea players.Given how much of a stroll some of these games should be, they offer a chance for those in need of a confidence boost.Two of those did just that, Joao Felix scoring twice having struggled for minutes since his before and Mykhailo Mudryk netting one and setting up two.Mudryk, desperately needing a statement performance, skied an early chance and looked to be heading for another frustrating night.READ MORE IN footballBut soon he started to make things happen.The Ukrainian, whose potential is undoubted but rarely looks like being fulfilled, was causing constant trouble down the left and teed up the opener.After Felix flicked on a header into his path, Mudryk raced forward and picked his moment to slide the ball back to his Portuguese teammate, allowing him a first time finish past Bartlomiej Drągowski.He could have had another assist minutes later too, squaring well for Enzo Fernandez to strike – though it was just tipped over.Most read in FootballJoao Felix opened the scoringCredit: ReutersFelix started the rout in GreeceCredit: GettyMykhailo Mudryk got himself a much needed goalCredit: APMudryk has another positive performance in EuropeCredit: APCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAfter a couple of early scares – including Filip Jorgensen needing to save from Tin Jedvaj’s second minute header – Chelsea were in full control.They may have had a rough couple of years but they are clearly too good for Europe’s third tier competition.Roberto Mancini brutally sacked from job as highest-paid manager in the world just days after clashing with fansThat was made more than clear inside ten second half minutes as Chelsea bagged another three.First Mudryk added to his first assist with a maiden goal of the season, heading in at the far post from Pedro Neto’s cross.He then set Felix up for his second of the night, taking advantage of the hosts’ failure to clear a Neto cross, laying the ball back before the shot deflected in off Serbian Nemanja Maksimovic.Within moments of putting the game beyond doubt, Felix won a penalty – his cross striking the hand of Daniel Mancini. Chelsea ratings vs Panathinaikos: Mudryk gives rare glimpse of his talent but one defender strugglesCHELSEA maintained their 100 per cent start to their Conference League campaign with a 4-1 win at Panathinaikos.Joao Felix turned in the opening goal of an emotional night in Athens midway through the first half.Mykhailo Mudryk headed in from close range after the break – before another for Felix, who then won a penalty converted by Christopher Nkunku.However, Chelsea did not head back with a clean sheet as ex-Manchester United man Facundo Pellistri grabbed a consolation.Here’s how SunSport’s Joshua Jones rated Enzo Maresca’s men…Filip Jorgensen – 7Made a fine flying save inside the opening two minutes, flying across to prevent a nightmare start.Had to deal with a laser being shone in his face – will be disappointed not to get a clean sheet.Axel Disasi – 5Gave away the early free-kick that almost resulted in a shock early lead for the hosts.Dragged slightly out of position before Panathinaikos’ goal then got booked for cynical tug in injury time – but made big block from resulting free-kick.Benoit Badiashile – 5Will have plenty of sterner tests this season – but would have been desperate not to concede.Was the man who should have been picking up Pellistri at the back post when Disasi came central.Renato Veiga – 6Played as the left-sided centre-back and looked pretty relaxed about his evening’s work – understandably so.Except for when he almost scored a comedic own goal but the ball looped just wide of the post.Marc Cucurella – 6Enjoying his role as the left-back who is given orders to help out in attack – leaving a back three behind when in possession.Routine stuff for the Spaniard – although critics may say he was out of position in build-up to Pellistri goal.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 7Former Leicester man showed plenty of energy – just as he promises to do in every appearance.Played a neat long pass to Felix in the build-up to the opening goal.Enzo Fernandez – 6Back in the starting XI after his surprise exclusion against Liverpool, and given the captain’s armband.Had a glorious chance to make it 2-0 but ran on to his shot but it was rising and tipped over to make sure.Pedro Neto – 7A constant livewire and delivered an inch-perfect cross for Mudryk’s goal.May well get the nod against Newcastle ahead of Jadon Sancho and/or Noni Madueke.Christopher Nkunku – 7Despite the home fans’ best attempts with their lasers, the forward made no mistake from the penalty spot in his only notable contribution.Cool as you like from 12 yards, firing low into the bottom corner.Mykhailo Mudryk – 9Left his team-mates frustrated when he went solo and blasted off target but made amends minutes later with a lovely sliding pass for Felix.Then turned from assist provider to goalscorer with his header at the back post, just about nodding it in, and the smile said it all.Went back to setting up, though, as he teed up Felix again.Joao Felix – 8Scored the opening goal – and did so in style with a lovely, cushioned header to flick the ball on then getting in the six-yard box to deftly turn home.Got Chelsea’s third thanks to a fortunate deflection then won the penalty.SUBSTyrique George (for Neto, 61 mins) – 7Stung the palms with a late effort and looked very bright when he came on.Marc Guiu (for Nkunku, 61 mins) – 5Spent half an hour up top but was largely anonymous.Cesare Casadei (for Fernandez, 71 mins) – 5Extra minutes in midfield as Fernandez’s legs saved for Newcastle on Sunday.Carney Chukwuemeka (for Dewsbury-Hall, 77 mins) – 5Got the final stages but game all over by then.The winger was denied the chance to wrap up his hat-trick as Christopher Nkunku converted from the spot, despite having to deal with a laser pen constantly in his eye.From there Chelsea slowed, a number of changes and chances for youngsters: Tyrique George, Marc Guiu and Cesare Casadei.READ MORE SUN STORIESWith Chelsea’s guard down a touch, the hosts grabbed a consolation.Sub Georgios Vagiannidis found space down the right and crossed for former Manchester United youngster Facundo Pellistri to tap in at the far post.Christopher Nkunku scored from the spotCredit: GettyHe pulled off his trademark celebrationCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Panathinaikos’ stadium now used by minnows with 2,500 fans – as Greek side host Chelsea in rented ground

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      CHELSEA are visiting Panathinaikos in the League Phase of the Conference League tonight at Athens Olympic Stadium.The Olympic Athletic Center of Athens (OAKA) has been used on and off by PAO ever since 2005 as they swap between Greece’s largest stadium and their historic ground of Apostolos Nikolaidis.Panathinaikos are facing Chelsea away from their traditional groundCredit: GettyPanathinaikos’ historic Apostolos Nikolaidis ground is in Leoforos AlexandrasCredit: GettyPanathinaikos have beaten the likes of Arsenal and Barcelona at LeoforosCredit: GettyThe Greek giants competed at their traditional home – also known simply as Leoforos because of its position at Alexandra’s Avenue in the centre of the capital – last season.However, Diego Alonso’s side returned to OAKA for this term after previous issues with the stadium’s roof were dealt with to the satisfaction of Uefa.This comes after the ground, named after famous 1896 Olympic hero Spiros Louis, had to close due to concerns over the stability of its steel dome last year.Greek press claimed authorities lost a manual with detailed instructions regarding the dome’s maintenance left behind by architect Santiago Calatrava – who built the landmark in 2004.Read More on FootballHowever, OAKA has reopened this season and the Blues will be playing in the same venue that hosted the 2004 Olympics as well as the Champions League final in 1983, 1994 and 2007.The Athens stadium holds a capacity of 70,000, which makes it larger than every Premier League ground bar Manchester United’s Old Trafford and Wembley.The club are paying rent to the Greek state, which is worth in the range of €300,000 (£250,000).PAO have experienced immense success at OAKA in the past having beaten the likes of Juventus, Roma and Feyenoord – that was also where they hosted Ajax in the 1995-96 Champions League semi-finals.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut it doesn’t compare to the glory Panathinaikos have tasted at Leoforos as that is where they played in the 1970-71 campaign.That was when Ferenc Puskas’ side made it to the European Cup final – eliminating Everton in the quarter-finals along the way – at Wembley where they were beaten by Johan Cruyff’s Ajax.Chelsea Player Ratings vs LiverpoolPanathinaikos later enjoyed even more European success at Leoforos as they made it to the Champions League quarter-finals in the 2001-02 campaign by beating the likes of Arsenal and Barcelona.However, this season the ground is being used by Superleague opponents Kallithea, who are renting it out and are tasked with the venue’s maintenance.The Greek club needed to meet the necessary top flight requirements to host games, such as installing CCTV, but that would have cost them around €500,000 (£416,000).And so a decision was made to move to a stadium that already has the necessary gear, while Panathinaikos make a profit without having to worry about maintenance while playing in Marousi.Leoforos holds a capacity of 16,620, which is far larger than the average 2,454 attendance rate Kallithea are currently recording this season.Panathinaikos are currently working on building their own stadium at Votanikos – a project that has been in the works in the last two decades.Moving to a new stadiumHowever, Greek reports suggest the state of the art ground, which is expected to hold a capacity of over 40,000, will be completed by Christmas of 2026 or New Year’s Day of 2027.Nevertheless, as per the current rate of construction, the stadium could open its doors in time for the 2027-28 season.OAKA is expected to be at full capacity tonight due to Chelsea’s visit, which will see manager Enzo Maresca missing key players.Levi Colwill, Reece James, Malo Gusto, Moises Caicedo and Nicolas Jackson are left out.And of course Marcus Bettinelli, Wesley Fofana, Ben Chilwell, Romeo Lavia as well as star man Cole Palmer were omitted from the Conference League list.Tonight will be an emotional match as it marks Panathinaikos’ first home game since star man George Baldock’s tragic death two weeks ago, therefore a series of tributes have been organised.READ MORE SUN STORIESBoth teams will be wearing black armbands while a minute’s silence will be held in Sheffield United legend Baldock’s memory.And Oaka has been filled with posters, which read: ” There’s a starman is waiting in the sky”.Chelsea face Panathinaikos at the Athens Olympic Stadium, also known as OAKACredit: GettyOAKA is Greece’s largest stadium with a bigger capacity than every Premier League ground bar Manchester United’sCredit: GettyPanathinaikos have beaten the likes of Juventus, Roma and Feyenoord at OAKACredit: Getty More

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      Arsenal star Zinchenko reveals he nearly lost his leg and was rushed into emergency surgery after ‘cage fight’

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      OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO came close to having his leg AMPUTATED as a teenager due to frostbite.The Arsenal full-back, 27, made his name at Manchester City from 2016 to 2022, winning four Prem titles, four Carabao Cups and one FA Cup.Oleksandr Zinchenko almost lost his leg due to frostbiteCredit: GettyHe has also gone on to captain Ukraine at major tournaments and recently helped the Gunners become top-flight title challengers once more under Mikel Arteta.But at the age of 17, his entire life could have changed thanks to a dry ice incident that left the defender with a gangrenous foot and moments away from amputation.It came about following a call from German club Hoffenheim to attend a trial, having been frozen out of the Shakhtar Donetsk academy and trying to reignite his career while taking part in the Russian street leagues.He explained: “The day before I was due to fly [to Germany], FC Meteor, one of the non-league clubs I played for, called me. They had a big game and wanted me to fill in.READ MORE ON SPORT“These leagues were a bit rogue, sometimes more like a cage fight. Some opponent did a crazy tackle on me and caught my right ankle. It swelled up like a balloon.“There was no way I could play the next day in Germany. Just walking was causing me pain. I was in no state to do a trial. But I couldn’t cancel and lose this life-changing opportunity.“We decided I would go anyway and ask them to let me train a couple of days later, by which time the swelling would have hopefully gone down.“I was on the plane with Lufthansa and I remember thinking: ‘Let’s not waste time to get the swelling down. Let’s use the flight.’ So, I asked the stewardess for some ice for my ankle.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“She didn’t understand me at first because my English wasn’t great and I didn’t speak any German. But she came over with what looked like ice in a plastic package.“I wrapped it up, put it on my ankle and went to sleep. Problem solved. An hour or so later, I woke up and expected to see a bag full of melted water. But there was none.Mystery as Kai Havertz denied chance to make Arsenal history but Mikel Arteta has no idea why it happened“Then I looked at my ankle. All the skin had turned white. I put my sock back onand, within around 20 minutes, as it warmed up, it started to blister.“When we arrived in Frankfurt, an associate of my agent was waiting. ‘I have a little problem,’ I told him. I think I gave him the shock of his life when I showed him my ankle.“We drove to the Hoffenheim academy, taken immediately to a physio, who pulled down my sock and turned nearly as white as the skin on my ankle when he saw it.“His reaction told me this was bad. ‘We’re taking you to hospital, right now.’ I was rushed into an operating theatre and surgery commenced immediately.“They were removing gangrenous tissue. If that had spread, it could have affected the whole foot, requiring it all to be removed. The reason? I had frostbite.“It turned out that when the air stewardess gave me ice, it was dry ice, which is three times colder than normal ice, exposing my bare ankle to Arctic-like temperatures.“The German doctor looked at me gravely. ‘You are fortunate. You came at the right time. Any later, and you might have lost your leg.’“Only then did I realise quite how close my dreams had come to ending and my life changing utterly.”After his near-death experience and a spell in the Russian Premier League, Zinchenko spent six seasons at City before joining Arsenal in the summer of 2022 for £35m.However, Zinchenko has also revealed he could have played for the North Londoners much sooner with Arsene Wenger keeping tabs on his situation back in 2014 following a Youth Champions League clash between Arsenal and Shakhtar.Zinchenko said: “I got a call from an agent who said: ‘Alex, I have a very good connection with Arsene Wenger. He called me after your game. He really wants to see you in the club.“I was speechless; my jaw was on the floor. When I gathered my thoughts after a few seconds, I said: ‘This is probably a joke. Someone is having a laugh here.’“For one reason or another, it never happened. I had sort of forgotten about this whole thing until Wenger came to the Emirates in December 2022 to watch us beat West Ham 3-1.“I shook his hand. I had never met him in person before… ‘Mister, eight years ago, I played for Shakhtar Donetsk in a Youth League game against Arsenal…’ I said, cautiously.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He interrupted me. ‘Yes, it was at Boreham Wood. Arsenal won 3-1. And after 20 minutes, I pointed at you and said: “I need this guy.”‘ It was all true. Incredible.“I sometimes imagine what would have happened if I had joined the first team as a 17-year-old.”Oleksandr Zinchenko joined Manchester City back in 2016Credit: AFP or licensors More

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      Inside Mikel Arteta’s bizarre pre-match methods with giant dominoes, pickpockets and squeezing lemons

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      MIKEL ARTETA’S unusual pre-match methods have included lemons, giant domino pieces and an undercover waiter.But Arsenal defender Oleksandr Zinchenko is confident the Gunners boss is close to “surpassing” mentor Pep Guardiola in their battle for the Premier League title.Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has some unusual pre-match methodsCredit: AlamyArteta has been known to think outside the box when it comes to preparing his squad for big games in the past, using props such as lightbulbs, speakers and flipcharts.As Arsenal prepare for another title bout with Pep’s Manchester City, Zinchenko revealed: “We had one where every player was given a lemon, a knife and a glass.“Mikel said, ‘Guys, I want you to squeeze these lemons as hard as you can.“In the end, we will add all of it in a bowl and we will see how much we can achieve together. The juice is our team magic. Everyone starts cutting and squeezing.READ MORE IN football “Then Mikel calls time. ‘Let’s see how much you squeezed.’ He went to one of the players and said, ‘Did you squeeze enough?’ ‘Yes, boss.’ Okay, let me see.’“He took the lemon, squeezed it and a bit of juice came out, still. He said: ‘Guys, this is the message, you can always add more. “You can always give more.’ Simple but quite effective.”Zinchenko added: “Another one I really liked involved hundreds of big domino pieces. We came into the room and saw a ball next to a basket.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“There were very detailed instructions on what size dominos you could use and how they had to set up. Mikel asked us to work together and build this spiral of stones.“He said: ‘Pay attention to the details and get all your angles right, because if only one stone is out of place, the whole thing breaks down.’Mystery as Kai Havertz denied chance to make Arsenal history but Mikel Arteta has no idea why it happened“Each one of us felt the responsibility. You don’t want to be the one who lets the team down and have the chain reaction fail.“Again, a simple idea, but it worked so well to put everybody in good spirits before a big game and remind them that we were in this together.”At one group dinner, Spanish boss Arteta hired several professional pickpockets to steal phones and wallets from the players to teach them about always being prepared and alert.And in January 2023, before beating Manchester United at home 3-2 thanks to an injury time winner from Eddie Nketiah, Arteta produced another secret experiment in a lunch meeting.Oleksandr Zinchenko with manager ArtetaCredit: GettyZinchenko said: “Mikel announced it was going to be another players vs staff freestyle battle. “The other day, it had been me against Nicolas Jover, our set piece specialist, and I had won.“So, the manager says: ‘It’s rematch today. Alex, let’s see if you can do it again’.“So, I get up and do a few tricks and so on. Then it’s Nico’s turn. But he’s holding his hamstring, saying he’s injured and can’t play.Everyone’s is looking at each other like, ‘What the f**k is this?Oleksandr Zinchenko“Mikel looks around the room and says: ‘We need a substitute. Anyone?’ At that moment, a waiter raises his hand. Mikel says: ‘Okay. You can try.’“And guess what? This guy is killing it. He’s basically destroying us. He even nutmegs [Bukayo] Saka. “Everyone’s is looking at each other like, ‘What the f**k is this? Everyone’s cheering him on and laughing.“Turns out he’s a professional freestyler with millions of followers whom Mikel had planted at the hotel as a waiter.“You realise how much work must have gone into that behind the scenes.”That guy was there for at least three hours undercover, serving up coffee and cakes and waiting patiently for his big moment. “The mood in the camp was incredible after that. People were buzzing on the way to the bus. That whole thing really pushed the right buttons. “But it happens so often. Every one of Mikel’s meetings is special.”Zinchenko added: “Mikel is on a similar level to Pep and might one day surpass him. He is a winner and demands maximum intensity.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He likes to say: ‘Boys, you must do everything full throttle. Football, partying, or in the bedroom with your wives: everything at full throttle.’”Arsenal ratings vs Shakhtar: Jesus reminds fans of his quality but Trossard flops for poor GunnersARSENAL continued their unbeaten run in the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk – but it was far from a convincing performance.Gabriel Martinelli orchestrated the decisive goal when his low-driven strike hit the post and deflected in off the back of goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Gunners…DAVID RAYA – 7Seldom asked to do much aside from recycle the ball to Gabriel or Saliba until the final stagesPushed a potentially dangerous cross out of danger in the 84th minute. Pulled out a magnificent low save in injury time before claiming a dangerous cross to keep his clean sheet.BEN WHITE – 6Back in at right-back today and played as if he had never been out of the team. Received a yellow card in the 34th minute. Subbed at half-time for Mikel Merino.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7In the team after his red card against Bournemouth, played like his typically assured self marshalling the defence.One or two sloppy passes late in the second half but otherwise can have no complaints with another solid performance.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Sloppily gave the ball away to hand the visitors a dangerous chance out of nothing. Had another lapse just after the opener but in the end he was bailed out by Calafiori.Marked improvement in the second half.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Skied a golden chance over the bar after six minutes. Tested the goalkeeper again after 24 minutes.Dragged his foot and went down injured after skipping under a tackle in the 67th minute. Replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly in 71st minute.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Comfortable evening in midfield for him. Recycled the ball well when at his feet and kept play ticking over.Moved to right back as White was hooked but didn’t have too many worries. When he was caught out of position Rice was able to cover.DECLAN RICE – 6Like Partey, he had a quiet night in midfield with Shakhtar unable to retain meaningful possession.Moved into the six as White was hooked and Partey moved to right-back. Cut out a dangerous low cross at the edge of the area. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Nothing quite went right for him all night with some sloppy touches ending attacks and putting Arsenal in trouble.Summed up his night by missing a 77th minute penalty and was hooked in the 88th minute.GABRIEL JESUS – 8Wore the captain’s armband and looked bright down the right wing.Denied a well-deserved goal by the feet of the keeper in the 43rd minute after Havertz played him in.Second half saw more good link play, but never had another chance to end his goal drought as he was replaced by Sterling in the 68th minute.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Grew into the game following a quiet start and was rewarded with a goal, of sorts, after 30 minutes.Brazilian cut inside from the left wing before firing a shot to the near post before the shot rebounded off the woodwork and hit the goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to go in the net. KAI HAVERTZ – 7Centimeters away from getting Arsenal’s second in the 39th minute after Jesus squared a volley back across goal.Returned the favour to set up his team-mate moments later only for the goalkeeper to prevent a goal.Won a free-kick at the very end of the game to run the clock down.SUBSMikel Merino (on for White HT) – 6Some nice touches and stitched play together well. A solid yet unspectacular performance.Raheem Sterling (on for Jesus 68 mins) – 6Tried to play on the shoulder of the last man but did not have the pace find the clear cut chance he would have liked.Myles Lewis-Skelly (on for Calafiori 71 mins) – 6Slotted in at left-back and was not afraid to show for the ball but often did not receive it while tucking infield.Jorginho (on for Trossard 88 mins) – N/ABelieve by Oleksandr Zinchenko is published by Bloomsbury More

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      in Athletics

      From legendary strongman to avid budgie breeder – the unforgettable life of beloved Olympian Geoff Capes

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      GIANT policeman Geoff Capes, who became Britain’s best-loved strongman, has died aged 75.Shot putter Capes — who stood 6ft 5½in and weighed 26st — represented Great Britain at three Olympics.Despite his strongman persona, Geoff Capes’ hobby was breeding budgerigars which he held gently in his giant handsCredit: GettyGeoff Capes of Great Britain competing in the men’s shot put event during the Summer Olympic Games in Montreal 1976.Credit: GettyGeoff won the 1983 World’s Strongest Man competitionCredit: RexHe was Commonwealth champion and European champion twice and since 1980 has been the country’s shot put record holder with a throw of 21.68metres.But the star was best known as the World’s Strongest Man, who could tear London phone directories in half and bend three-foot long, one-inch diameter steel bars.But remarkably, his hobby was breeding budgerigars which he held gently in his giant hands.And he became the president of the Budgerigar Society and was never happier than when he won the world budgie championship and travelled the globe judging bird shows.READ MORE ON GEOFF CAPESLast night fans took to social media to pay tribute to the beloved strongman.I was a hell of a fighter as well. If the next town came down on a Friday and there were only eight or nine of them I’d say, ‘Go back and get some more.Geoff on his youthOne said on X: “I watched him as a young man — my sincerest ­condolences to his family and friends, we’ll miss you Geoff.”Another added: “Sad to hear the passing of Geoff Capes. A fixture growing up on our TV and during athletics coverage.”Geoffrey Lewis Capes was born in 1949 in Holbeach, Lincs, the seventh of nine children.Most read in AthleticsAnd trouble was never far away. He remembered: “I was a hell of a fighter as well. If the next town came down on a Friday and there were only eight or nine of them I’d say, ‘Go back and get some more.’VW Polo from 3848 advert featuring Geoff Capes advert from 1983“I’d fight them on my own. I was quite quiet, but there was an inner aggression.“My headmaster, a guy called Joe Fathers, took great pleasure in trying to knock it out of me. He had a choice of canes.“On the last day I went into his office, I took the canes off the wall in the office in front of him and walked out.”Gifted sportsmanGeoff’s salvation was Holbeach Athletic Club where he was coached by BBC athletics commentator Stuart Storey.A gifted sportsman, Capes represented Lincolnshire at basketball, football and cross-country. But shot put was where he could channel the chip on his shoulder.Capes said: “I threw in bare feet in a concrete circle — and came second from last.”Capes would hitch-hike to athletics competitions and was told by Storey that he would achieve great things if he could just direct his energy.But growing up in the Lincs fens Geoff had a softer side — he was ­fascinated by the natural world and cared for injured birds and animals. After leaving school he worked as a coalman and an agricultural labourer before joining Cambridgeshire Constabulary in 1970. He served in the force for ten years.He was allowed time off to compete at athletics meetings, but on a copper’s salary he could barely afford a daily diet that included six pounds of red meat, a dozen eggs and a large tin of baked beans.He also consumed two tins of ­pilchards, one and a half pounds of cottage cheese, a packet of cereal, two large loaves of bread with a pound of butter. All washed down with a pint of orange juice and seven pints of milk.Capes went on to become the most capped British male athlete of all time, with 67 international credits, and in 1983 he was voted Britain’s best-ever field athleteCredit: GettyThe strongman appearing in the kids’ TV programme ‘Supergran’Credit: RexIn a recent interview Capes said: ‘I enjoyed my life and I went around the world. How many people can say that?’Credit: RexIn his last interview he said: “I ate like a f***ing horse! Anything I could get my hands on. But nearly all protein.”Capes, who would lift 120 tons in training each week, did sponsorship deals that helped him to bypass the Olympics’ strict amateur rules.He had advertising slogans “Butcher Brown is the best in town” and his Talbot Estate car displayed “Dewhurst: Master Butchers” on the side.Capes went on to become the most capped British male athlete of all time, with 67 international credits, and in 1983 he was voted Britain’s best-ever field athlete.Just before his last Olympics, Moscow 1980, he won Britain’s first strongest man competition and became a household name. Tests of strength such as bending steel bars, lifting a platform of bunny girls, pulling lorries, arm wrestles and tug of war gave the show cult status.And Capes was soon in demand for everything from 17 pantomime appearances and children’s TV to performances at the London Palladium with Bobby Davro and TV ads.By 1983 he was officially the world’s strongest man but the following year lost the title to Jón Páll Sigmarsson.The Icelander who was 11 years younger, taunted: “The King has lost his crown!”But Geoff swore: “I’ll be back.” The next year he took the title and roared: “The King has not lost his crown!”Once, at Scotland’s Braemar Games, he used so much resin competing that when he was congratulated by the late Queen, their hands stuck together, causing Her Majesty to roar with laughter.READ MORE SUN STORIESGeoff’s son Lewis and daughter Emma were both shot putters, while two of his grandchildren, Donovan, 19, and Lawson, 15, train at the shot put ring Capes built in his home village of Stoke Rochford, Lincs.In a recent interview he said: “I enjoyed my life and I went around the world. How many people can say that?” More

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      I watched Cristiano Ronaldo play for Al-Nassr, the atmosphere and standard shocked me… but he didn’t seem bothered

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      WHEN I entered Al-Shabab’s stadium to watch Cristiano Ronaldo & Co in action, the 90 minutes that followed surprised me. It is now more than 18 months since Ronaldo joined the Saudi Arabia Pro League after his controversial Manchester United exit. The Al-Nassr away end was packedCredit: The SunAround 10,000 were at Al-Shabab’s stadiumCredit: The SunSunSport were on hand to cover the gameCredit: The SunAnd after just one full season, he is £200million richer thanks to signing football’s biggest-ever contract. His arrival sparked an influx of stars who left Europe’s top leagues to chase mega-money deals in the Middle East.And the huge offers on the table threatened to turn football as we know it on its head. The dust has since settled in the desert and the high-profile yet controversial transfers to sizzling Saudi seem to have cooled down.READ MORE IN football The likes of Jordan Henderson – despite insisting his move was not money-orientated – turned his back on the SPL after just six months. And other big names such as Neymar have yet to make much of an impact, although the Brazilian suffered a lengthy injury lay-off shortly after signing for champions Al-Hilal.But Ronaldo – approaching two years in the Gulf State – is still the poster boy for the SPL. So when I arrived at Al-Shabab’s 15,000-seat stadium, I feared it would be a sad affair to witness what his career swansong has come to.Most read in SportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut I was pleasantly surprised.I was almost expecting to see another crowd of just over 600, much like the one who infamously watched Henderson in action before his move to Ajax.Cristiano Ronaldo sits in on son Cristiano Jr’s training session as 14-year-old looks to follow in dad’s footsteps Instead, 10,000 showed up and despite being an Al-Nassr away game, most were there for Ronaldo. The travelling Al-Nassr faithful made themselves known before the game had even kicked off by blaring out club anthems. SunSport snuck into the away end to get amongst the action – although our cover was blown as a result of being the only one not in Al-Nassr yellow. As the drums beat down and the chants sounded, my focus then turned to the game itself.My cynical preconceptions had me expecting 90 minutes of low-level football with the odd moment of brilliance from Ronaldo or Sadio Mane.It was the total opposite. In fact, the Champions League-winning pair struggled to impact the game for the most part. Mane looked pretty lost on the left wing while Ronaldo at times barely seemed bothered by what was going on in front of him. SunSport snuck into the Al-Nassr away endIt was a sea of Al-Nassr yellowThere were times when even getting himself back onside for an Al-Nassr counter attack looked to be a chore for the Portugal icon.At half-time, I was taken aback by the quality of football but lack of influence from Ronaldo and Mane. Now, it’s worth mentioning Ronaldo had been over 4,000 miles away playing against Scotland just 72 hours before this game.But for a player so competitive, who wants to reach 1,000 career goals, his lack of urgency at times left me shocked. As the half-time whistle blew, it was time to check out the footie scran. Now I wasn’t expecting Pukka Pies and a non-alcoholic pint but rather some traditional Saudi cuisine. Instead, only pastries, popcorn, cookies, coffee and various soda juices were on offer. Pizzas and pastries were served out the packetCredit: The SunWe settled for a cheese croissant, popcorn and cherry sodaCredit: The SunIt was an unusual stuffed cheese croissantCredit: The SunSunSport’s Jack Figg takes a bite into the matchday grubCredit: The SunI got myself a dodgy tasting cheese “croissant” with popcorn and a cherry soda, costing just £8. And I was in my seat as the second half kicked off, but again Ronaldo and Mane struggled to make things happen.It was actually another Premier League winner in Aymeric Laporte who opened the scoring with a volley after a corner.As the ex-Manchester City defender reeled off in celebration, Ronaldo trotted over to enthusiastically join in.Laporte looked to have won the game until an Ali Alhassan own goal levelled on 90 minutes. Our footage shows Ronaldo retrieving the ball to the centre spot to try and spark a late fightback. And to Al-Nassr’s credit, that’s what they did. Ronaldo looked to struggle at timesCredit: GettyBut he still scored the winning goalCredit: ReutersRonaldo got the last laughCredit: GettyA moment of trickery from winger Abdulrahman Ghareeb won a penalty for the visitors and gave Ronaldo – and the fans – the moment we’d all been waiting for.But even as the squabbles ensued after the blatant spot kick was awarded, Ronaldo distanced himself from the rowing pack.He then took the ball, placed it down and slotted past Kim Seung-gyu – before pulling off his trademark celebration on the 97th minute. But amazingly the drama was not over just yet. Al-Shabab themselves won a dramatic penalty in the 13 MINUTE of added time. But Abderrazak Hamdallah failed to keep his nerve and hit the post – sparking a relieved celebration from Ronaldo – the most emotion he showed all night. It brought a fittingly bonkers end to a pleasantly surprising experience watching Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr live.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe standard and atmosphere was no less than you would expect to see at some Prem and Championship games – thanks to the mix of elite names on the pitch.But even more impressively, that was achieved without Ronaldo even being at his best. Ronaldo leads the winning celebrationCredit: Getty More

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      Inside Pep Guardiola’s amazing lifestyle, living in a luxury £2.7million apartment to his stunning Richard Mille watches

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      PEP Guardiola is recognised as the game’s best manager, and probably the most stylish.The fiercely proud Catalonian, 53, has led Manchester City to the Premier League title six times.Pep Guardiola has led Man City to multiple Premier league trophiesCredit: AFPFamily man Guardiola has made Manchester his homeCredit: PA:Press AssociationHe has also won the Champions League three times – twice with Barcelona and once with the Premier League giants.Pep’s contract runs out in the summer at the Etihad, but there is a belief that he will sign an extension in the summer.That could mean an increase on his reported £20million-per-year salary.That astronomical amount allows Guardiola, who is believed to be worth around £100million, live a lavish lifestyle.Read more football news Here’s what the football manager loves to splash his cash on.Luxury apartmentBack in 2017, as Pep began his assault on English football he needed to find a base to settle down in.After spending most of his life in Barcelona as a player and coach, bustling city life was important to him.That’s why he chose to buy a stylish apartment in Manchester’s City Suites for £2.7million, instead of going for a leafy mansion somewhere in Cheshire.Most read in FootballFound in Salford, it’s the city’s most desired abode, and sits next to a wealth of designer shops, high-end restaurants and wine bars.Pep Guardiola says part of him will leave Man City when Txiki Begiristain goes Amenities include an 18-metre indoor spa pool, an exquisite spa and sauna facilities as well as a 24-hour gym.The building also boasts a round-the-clock concierge, two private parking spaces, dry-cleaning services and access to a private executive lounge.It is believed Pep’s digs are in a private part of the building and occupy two floors.Pep’s property portfolio expands to a 8,000-square-foot mansion in Pedarlbes, one of Barcelona’s most desired in areas, that cost him £8.5m back in 2021.While when he went on a sabbatical in 2012, he rented a stunning New York apartment that overlooked Central Park and cost a whopping £19,500 to rent a month.X Files actor David Duchovny and legendary singer and actress Barbara Streisand reportedly lived in the same building.City Suites boasts a swimming pool and luxury apartmentsGuardiola reportedly bought a large penthouse for £2.7mWhen Guardiola was on his sabbatical he rented a penthouse in a building overlooking Central ParkIncredible watchesIn recent months, Pep has really upped his watch game.We know he has a penchant for Richard Mille timepieces – the most costly on the market.One of those he was spotted on the golf course wearing –  a RM 27-01 Tourbillon Rafael Nadal worth a cool £600,000.Other watches in his collection include a £455,000 RM 022 Tourbillon Aerodyne, a £75,000 RM 010 ‘Manchester City’, the RM 004 All Gray, which cost over £150,000, and a RM67-02 with a £230,000 price tag.Pep Guardiola has sported a variety of Richard Mille watchesGuardiola’s watch collection is believed to be worth over £1mFamily lifeFamily life is very important to Pep, especially when it comes to shutting down after a hectic football season.In the summer, he often takes his wife, Cristina and their children Maria, Marius, and Valentina on glam holidays.Back in 2023, after winning the treble, he enjoyed an amazing experience in Egypt – touring Cairo and Luxor and visiting the Sphinx and Great Pyramid of Giza.Pep met his missus when he was 18 at her family’s fashion store.Then a Barcelona youth star, he was trying on some clothes when the caught the eye of each other.They finally walked down the aisle in 2014 at a town hall on the outskirts of Barcelona.Family is everything for Guardiola who celebrates his success with themAfter winning the treble, Guardiola took his family to EgyptThe Guardiolas visited the Sphinx and Great Pyramid of Gizaread more sport featuresCarsIt’s no surprise that with all the money Guardiola has made in the world he has an impressive car collection.But, with the high octane football he plays, you’d be surprised to hear he’s not the best driver.Last year, we reported that he has damaged cars collectively worth £460,000 since joining Man City in February 2016. They included a £200,000 silver Bentley, GTX700, a £150,000 Range Rover, an £80,000 black Mercedes GLE and a £30,000 Mini Cooper.A source said: “Pep is brilliant at many things but driving doesn’t appear to be one of them, he has struggled with the roads in Manchester and had a couple of bumps.”Most recently, he’s been seen in a Nissan Leaf worth a modest £30,000.A £200k Bentley GTX 700 was part of Guardiola’s car collectionIn recent years, Guardiola has been spotted driving a modest Nissan LeafFashion kingManagers on the touchline are getting trendier.If they’re not in pristine suits (think Simone Inzaghi), then they’re going down the cargo pant and hoodie or sweatshirt look.Pep has the latter sussed – with a grey hoodigan his favourite from Italian luxury designer Herno.The manager was seen wearing the oversized item – considered “lucky” by fans a number of times from 2019 until today.Pep has also been pictured in ‘MDCR’ – referring to ‘Madchester’ – jumpers and an array of items with the letter ‘P’ on them, as well a CP Company jumper costing £250.Earlier in the year, he revealed his wife is his fashion guru.READ MORE SUN STORIESFans believe Guardiola’s £1200 hoodigan from Italian designer Herno is luckyGuardiola is also a fan of the CP CompanyGuardiola also enjoyed wearing the club’s Madchester range of sweatshirtsGuardiola admitted fashionable wife Cristina is his stylistHe said: “My wife is the best in the world at many things, but especially in fashion. So she says normally to me, don’t wear this or wear that, so I follow her.”I am smart enough to know that when people are much much better than me, follow their advice and hers is really good.” More