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      in Soccer

      Roy Keane is devoted doting dad of five children including one girl engaged to England star and another who makes cereal

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      ROY Keane is a proud family man.While he may have intimidated rivals on the pitch as Manchester United captain in the 90s and 00s, and be as fierce a pundit there is on the box, he’s soft when it comes to his kids and grandkids.Roy Keane poses with wife of 20 plus years, TheresaOver the years, Keane has been a doting dad to five kidsKeane has also showered his grandkids with plenty of attentionThanks to his Instagram account, the former Premier League hardman has given us a glimpse into his life.From celebrating his daughters on their birthdays to enjoying dressing up as cartoon characters on grandad duty, SunSport looks at Keane’s family life.And that includes a Premier League footballer who scored recently against his beloved Republic of Ireland.His wifeKeane has been married to Theresa for over 20 years and they share five children together – Shannon, Caragh, Aidan, Leah and Alanna.Read more football news The pair met in 1992, when the midfielder was playing for Nottingham Forest under Brian Clough.”I spotted a beautiful girl in a club in town. Her name was Theresa Doyle but she blanked me,” Keane once revealed of his encounter with the Nottingham-born beauty.”She was in a steady relationship and didn’t seem at all impressed by Roy Keane, the great footballer. In fact, I think my reputation was as a downer for all kinds of reasons.”From time to time we ran into each other around Nottingham. I knew some of her friends, who told me Theresa was a dentist’s assistant.Most read in Football”Eventually, after her relationship broke up, she relented and we went out together. I was in love.”Roy Keane in heartfelt tribute to future son-in-law Taylor Harwood-Bellis after ‘bittersweet’ England goal vs Ireland_1Back in 2021, he celebrated her birthday by cheekily cutting off half of her image in an Instagram selfie.He captioned the photo: “Happy birthday to my first wife x”Successful daughtersKeane has five children with Theresa, including four daughters.Caragh, 28, is the second oldest of their brood.At the age of 25, Caragh was forced to turn down a “dream teaching position” after being diagnosed with lupus – a chronic autoimmune condition that results in severe inflammation.Caragh was told she may need to undergo chemotherapy after developing extreme joint pains and blisters.But, after researching the linked between gut health and inflammation, she changed to a healthy diet.And three years later, with her lupus conditions now a thing of the past, Caragh has released a cereal that encourages gut health and avoids processed ingredients.Dad Keane has even been promoting the snack, gifting it to colleagues including Ian Wright and Gary Neville on the Stick to Football podcast.Keane celebrates daughter ‘No2’ Caragh’s graduationCaragh struggled with Lupus when she was 25 and had to forget her dream jobInstead, Caragh created a cereal that promotes gut healthAlanna Keane works as a spin specialist and laster therapist at clinic in Altrinchamread more sport featuresHe said: “My daughter Caragh has got a company with health stuff. I am proud, very proud.”Keane’s youngest daughter, Alanna – who he affectionally calls No5 on social media – has branched out on her own.She works as a skin specialist and laser therapist at the Little Cheshire Clinic in Altrincham, Greater Manchester. Only son Aiden Keane prefers to keep a low-profile, as does Shannon his eldest offspring.Footballer in the familyIt was bound to happen.Daughter “No4”, Leah has fallen for the charms of a Premier League footballer.She has dated Southampton defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis, who recently made his debut for England against Republic of Ireland, for around five years, according to reports.The pair recently got engaged, and Harwood-Bellis celebrated with a goal on his Three Lions debut.ITV host Mark Pougatch joked to Keane in the studio that the Southampton defender will be bringing his goal up over Christmas dinner, especially because it took the Irishman three years to score for Boys in Green.Leah Keane has fallen for the charms of a Premier League footballerLeah has been dating ex-Man City youngster Taylor Harwood-BellisHarwood-Bellis celebrates scoring against the Republic of IrelandKeane affectionately calls daughter Leah ‘No4′ on InstagramBut Keane Sr, who may have already started writing his father-of-the-bride speech ahead of their upcoming wedding, immediately quipped back: “Bittersweet for me, this.”It [the wedding] is not done and dusted yet!”Things can change very quickly in the Keane household.”No, he’s a really nice kid, his family have done a good job.”It’s nice for him, it’s good for him, he’s a bit of a goal threat.”Doting grandadFor all his toughness and talk, Keane can be a big softy.And he will do anything for his grandchildren, who absolutely dotes on and shares family time on his brilliant Instagram account.Including dressing up as animated puppy Chase from popular kids’ cartoon Paw Patrol.Captioning the snap of him in a giant dog costume, Keane quipped he’s only doing it to pay for his pool heating bill.Inside Keane and Haaland’s feudRoy Keane’s feud with the Haaland family seemingly began all the way back in 2001 when Keane hit Alfe Inge Haaland, Erling’s father, with a horror tackle.After a barren spell for Haaland earlier this season, Keane said: “The levels of his general play are so poor. He has to improve that. He is almost like a League Two player.”Keane upgraded him to a “Championship” player after Haaland scored against Nottingham Forest.After scoring four against Wolves, Haaland said: “I don’t care about that man.”But Keane highlighted Haaland’s behaviour when he was subbed off, saying he behaved “like a spoiled brat”.Sky Sports presenter Dave Jones caught the wrath of Keane’s death stare when he dared to question that label considering his quartet of goals.Keane loves playing the part of granddadTo amuse his grandkids Keane dressed as Paw Patrol character ChaseKeane was brilliant player, is a great pundit, and amazing granddad tooHe joked: “Available for party hire. I don’t like parties or kids but the pool needs heating.”READ MORE SUN STORIESKeane also joked about his granddaughter idolising him, and took a grandson to see Sing 2 in the cinema.Brilliant player, great pundit, better family man. More

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      in Boxing

      Jake Paul offered world title fight by undefeated P4P boxing superstar who asks ‘so what are we gonna do?’

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      JAKE PAUL has been called out once more by undefeated boxing star Artur Beterbiev, who demands an answer.Paul, 27, defeated a much older Mike Tyson on Friday at the AT&T Stadium in Texas via unanimous decision after a controversial fight on Netflix.Jake Paul has been called out by boxing superstar Artur BeterbievCredit: GettyBeterbiev challenged Paul after his controversial victory over Mike TysonCredit: GettyBetewrbiev is demanding an answer after Paul’s sarcastic reactionCredit: PABesides the fact the stream crashed, many slammed the bout because the legendary Tyson’s advanced age of 58 was glaringly obvious.This marks another disputable boxing victory for the Problem Child, who has only faced one active professional boxer throughout his young four-year career in Tommy Fury who defeated him in 2023.Paul has so far beaten Tyson past his prime, YouTuber AnEsonGib, ex-basketball player Nate Robinson as well as MMA heroes Ben Askren, Tyron Woodley, Anderson Silva, Nate Diaz and Mike Perry.The YouTuber has also shared the ring with little-known boxers Andre August and Ryan Bourland, both of whom he beat.Read More on BoxingThat led to a challenge by Beterbiev, 39, who wants to see how Paul would fare against a legitimate boxer.In fact, the Russian bruiser offered him a shot at his undisputed WBA, WBC, IBF and WBO light heavyweight world titles on Instagram after the Tyson fight.Beterbiev posted on his story: “[Paul] What can you do in ring against the current undisputed champion? Just know that I’m always open to any suggestions.”Paul responded with a sarcastic tweet without actually answering the challenge.Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe undefeated top-five pound-for-pound star, who’s won all of his 21 fights, would be a huge step up in class after the social media star’s previous opponents – most of whom weren’t even boxers.Paul tweeted: “Just seen this….top 5 pound for pound fighter in the world calling me out. Hahahahahaha. 4 years in and I run this sport.”I sparred Artur Beterbiev and it’s by far the worst thing I’ve experienced in life Beterbiev, though, doubled down on his demand insisting it is time for the controversial YouTuber to have “serious challenges”.The undisputed champ responded: “After four years it’s time to have serious challenges. Didn’t notice your acceptance or rejection. So what are we gonna do?”Beterbiev is currently fourth the Ring Magazine’s pound-for-pound rankings after winning 20 fights via knockout. Paul vs Tyson shocking punch statsTHE punch stats from Mike Tyson’s defeat to Jake Paul made for “sad” reading.Veteran Iron Mike, 58, started strongly enough in his Netflix boxing fight with the former YouTuber.But he simply ran out of gas within the first few minutes of the eight-round contest.In the 16 minutes of action, the former undisputed heavyweight world champion landed just 18 punches – averaging just 2.25 successful hits per round.In total, he only attempted 97, meaning he made contact with just 18 per cent.By comparison, Paul, 27, threw a whopping 278 punches – nearly 200 more than his ageing opponent – but still only landed 78 for a success rate of 28 per cent despite his opponent barely moving.His most explosive round came in the third when the victorious Problem Child attempted 44 punches and connected with 16 of them.However, a woeful fifth round saw just four punches landed between the pair as the quality failed to live up to the hype and Paul refused to go for the knockout. More

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      in Soccer

      ‘Smitten’ England ace Trent Alexander-Arnold dating stunning Instagram model months after split from Jude Law’s daughter

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      ENGLAND ace Trent Alexander-Arnold is dating an Instagram model months after his split from Jude Law’s daughter.The Liverpool star has even whisked 23-year-old influencer Estelle Behnke on a £6,000-a-night getaway.Footballer Trent Alexander-Arnold and Estlle Behnke were seen together at celeb haunt Cibo in Hale, CheshireCredit: mancpicss66Estelle on her InstagramCredit: instagram/Estelle BehnkeThey were seen together days ago as they enjoyed a 2½-hour meal at celeb haunt Cibo in Hale, Cheshire.Earlier in the day, the £180,000-per-week footballer was seen visiting Christmas markets in Manchester’s city centre.Trent, 26, had been called up to the England squad for the latest Nations League matches, but withdrew on Monday due to injury.Last month, he and Estelle took a romantic trip to the five-star Soho Farmhouse in the Cotswolds.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSEagle-eyed fans noticed the pair had tagged themselves in separate posts from the private members’ club.A source told The Sun: “It’s very early days but they are officially dating — they seem really into each other. Trent hasn’t been single long and is enjoying spending time with Estelle.“They’re just really enjoying each other’s company and seem quite smitten.”Trent started liking Estelle’s Instagram posts from her jet-set lifestyle on October 17, a month after his split from model and actress Iris Law — the daughter of Jude and actress Sadie Frost.Most read in FootballThey had dated for five months after meeting on a Guess Jeans photoshoot.A pal insisted there is “no bad blood” between Iris and Real Madrid target Trent, but added: “Being a Wag was never really going to be her bag.”Roy Keane says ‘looked like he’d never played right-back’ in savage criticism of England star Trent Alexander-ArnoldTrent’s new fling comes a month after his split from model and actress Iris lawCredit: Dan CharityThe defender has been heavily linked to Real MadridCredit: Alamy More

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      in Soccer

      Inside beachside retreat loved by England boss Thomas Tuchel with treatments like herbal enemas and therapeutic vomiting

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      WHEN Thomas Tuchel was unceremoniously sacked by Chelsea he looked for a factory reset.The England boss, 51, found it in India and embarked a remarkable spiritual journey in 2022.Thomas Tuchel ‘found himself’ at the Sitaram Beach Retreat in IndiaCredit: Sitaram Beach RetreatStays at the Sitaram Beach Retreat start at around £3,000Credit: Sitaram Beach RetreatGuru Dr Vignesh Devraj worked with Tuchel at the Indian retreatCredit: Sitaram Beach RetreatHe spent three weeks at the incredible Sitaram Beach Retreat, where he took on the practices of Ayurveda –  an ancient Indian system of medicine that prioritises holistic wellness and healing.There, Tuchel put all his focuses on yoga, meditation, and personal reflectionThe German tactician had a difficult year professionally and personally.Not only was he sacked by the Blues, his marriage to long-time partner, Sissi was dissolved in court.Read more football newsHe then faced scrutiny over his love life – moving on with a Brazilian beauty 13-years his junior.Tuchel sat down with guru Dr Vignesh Devraj to discuss how the experience changed him.He said in a video clip: “I trained myself not to read about myself because the more I thought about it the more I got affected by it, also by praise, not also by critique.”Critique sticks with you, if you want it or not, and I don’t want it. In the end, I asked myself, ‘Why would I read something about my team or my match and who should know better than me?’Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”For a long time, I’ve been getting closer to Ayurveda through meditation and got familiar with the lifestyle – with the routine that is attached – to this philosophy.”I always had a good feeling about it. I had a very demanding year, and a very demanding year privately and personally.”Health benefitsA beautiful serene setting, Sitaram Beach Retreat overlooks the shores of the Arabian sea.Thomas Tuchel gives his first message to fans as England manager Luxurious rooms include stone or wooden cottages, as well as premium villas.Prices start at around the £3,000 mark for a 14-day package, but rise with the different treatments you may want.Sitaram Ayurveda offers Panchakarma treatment which is an ayurvedic treatment methodology which specialises in intensive waste elimination from our body at a cellular level.Panchakarma treatment is said to help in rejuvenating the body by detoxifying and purifying at cellular level, thereby enhancing the immunity of the body.It is also believed to heal pains due to inflammation, like joint pain, arthritis, gout, knee pain, back pain, and helps in losing excess weight from your body.In short, it cleanses the impurities of the human body to restore the balance of the body, mind, heart, and soul.There are some more extreme Panchakarma procedure measures, of course.Guests undertake the philosophy of AyurvedaCredit: Sitaram Beach RetreatRooms available include wooden cottagesCredit: Sitaram Beach RetreatGuests stay in peaceful rooms like these as they restore the balance of the body, mind, heart, and soul.Credit: Sitaram Beach RetreatSeveral ancient medical treatments linked to Panchakarma are carried out at the retreatCredit: Sitaram Beach RetreatOne, called Vamanam, is an induced vomiting procedure that is performed to release the toxins present in the upper part of the body.There’s also TWO different enemas called Kashayavasti and Metravasti – designed to eliminate and normalise the deranged Vata in the lower part of the body.The reason for that is to promote strength and restore general well-being.Tuchel’s own experienceIt is not known what procedures Tuchel chose to do.However, during his 21-day stay he was able to leave the pressures of the football world behind him.He embraced a minimalist lifestyle and engaged in local culture.It all guided him to find a sense of peace and introspection, where he reflected on his career, his coaching methods, and what he wanted moving forward.In his interview with Dr Vignesh Devraj, he revealed his struggles.Soon after his arrival, Tuchel went six days without sugar.Tuchel spoke candidly to Dr Vignesh Devraj about his experienceCredit: Sitaram Beach RetreatTuchel struggled with giving up chocolate while on the retreatCredit: APThat meant giving up sweet treats, including his favourite, chocolate as he came to terms with a new diet.Admittedly, the first 72 hours were a challenge.He confessed feeling “irritable” and “restless”, which could have been likened the last months of his Chelsea tenure when he was frustrated with the Todd Boehly regime. But, by the end of the stay, he appeared in the 41-minute clip at ease with the world.However he does admit he did drink some warm ghee as part of his therapy.Dressed in an unbuttoned shirt, he told Dr Vignesh Devraj: “I got a bit grumpy. There was zero sugar and the ghee drinking was not very pleasant.”I was not in the best mood but I wanted to be here. Now I feel a difference. And when I look in the mirror I see I lost some kilos. “It was my wish to come here for a long time, one of my assistants did it five or six years ago, and we still keep on talking about it.”So now is the moment for a little break and a new start in my life. I am very happy I did it.”It’s nice to be hear, the butterflies are so big, the view to the sea… to hear the sound of it.”How the place is set up, the memories, the temperature, the location, having this kind of routine, having this limited amount of distraction, and being with yourself.”It actually gives me a lot of self-confidence in the basic meaning of me.”After three weeks, I am very aware of myself and I am happy with myself.Southgate vs Tuchel records comparedTHOMAS TUCHELAugsburg II 2007-2008P34 W 20 D8 L6 Win percentage: 58.82%Mainz 05 2009-2014P184 W72 D46 L66 Win percentage: 39.13%Borussia Dortmund 2015-2017P107 W67 D23 L17 Win percentage: 62.62%Honours: DFB Pokal Paris Saint Germain 2018-2020P127 W95 D13 L16 Win percentage: 74.8%Honours: Ligue 1 X2, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, Trophee des Champions x2Chelsea 2021-2022P100 W60 D24 L16 Win percentage: 60%Honours: Champions League, Super Cup, Club World CupBayern Munich 2023-2024P61 W37 D8 L16 Win percentage: 60.66%Honours: BundesligaGARETH SOUTHGATEMiddlesbrough 2006-2009P151 W54 D43 Win percentage: 35.76%England U21 2013-2016P37 W27 D5 L5 Win percentage: 72.97%Honours: Toulon tournamentEngland 2016-2024P102 W61 D24 L17 Win percentage: 59.8%Honours: Euros runners up, 2020, 2024Tuchel admitted the retreat helped him find some clarity in his lifeCredit: Sitaram Beach RetreatTuchel left the resort happier, more relaxed, before he took on the Bayern Munich roleCredit: Sitaram Beach Retreat”I allow myself to be happy and not to force things.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I feel healthy and it was kind of a ceremony to close things, but also restart things.”That sounds similar to what England need after Gareth Southgate’s successful tenure. More

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      in Soccer

      Inside futuristic Minecraft stadium built on a cliff and covered with LED screens that could host 2034 World Cup games

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      THE 2034 World Cup might be a decade away but work has already begun on a stunning futuristic Minecraft arena in Saudi Arabia.The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium is perched on a cliff no less than 650ft high in Riyadh and decked out in LED panels.Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium will be built into a cliff edge near RiyadhThe 45,000-seater stadium will cost more than £1billionThe futuristic panelled cubes will act as an extension of the Tuwaiq cliffsThe 45,000-seater is expected to cost more than £1BILLION, with construction set to get underway in 2026.The logo-like arena will become the world’s first fully integrated venue with a combined retractable pitch and man-made LAKE fuelled air-con.The LED wall will be a portal to live event broadcasts, high-definition films and will open to reveal breathtaking views of the city when not activated.There will be three stands, with one side open, offering a dramatic vista of the Qiddiya city itself.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe exterior will be formed by a collection of modular cubes that will act as the extension of the Tuwaiq cliffs in a huge digital canvas.Its aim, other than to host football matches at the 2034 World Cup, is to “connect the upper plateau and Gaming and Esports District to the theme parks below”, according to The Mail. One Saudi-based industry insider told The Mail: “This will be the first time we have seen that brought to life.”SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles has a massive screen. This stadium is a massive screen.”Most read in FootballAn inside look at The Prince Mohammed bin Salman StadiumAl-Nassr’s new stadium will have a 45,000 capacityFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe climate will be controlled via a lake underneath which collects rain water to pre-cool the air conditioning system.There will be a retractable roof and a digital wall which will drop down in front of the spectator’s view, with work set to finish up in 2029.EFL club owner gives update on new £2bn ‘spaceship’ stadium included in mega plans for state-of-the-art complex And at the touch of a button the surface will flip from grass to artificial turf.The Minecraft-esque stadium is set to play host to Cristiano Ronaldo’s current side Al-Nassr once it’s complete.Beneath the glitzy facades of the Saudis developments, lies the stories of threats, forced evictions and bloodshed.Many projects have faced fierce criticism over human rights abuses – including the £400billion Neom Stadium project where tribes were reportedly shoved out of their homeland, imprisoned or executed.Only last month, in an ITV documentary, workers complained of 16-hour days, their passports being confiscated and of not being paid in some cases.The documentary also featured claims that 21,000 Indian, Bangladeshi and Nepalese workers had died in the country since 2017, each working on Saudi’s Vision 2030.Those allegations have been strongly refuted by country’s National Council for Occupational Safety and Health.The pioneering Sci-Fi stadium is one of 15 to be built as Saudi Arabia close in on the hosting rights for the 2034 World Cup.The futuristic arena is set to feature a giant LED screen wall inside the arenaIt is to be situated on top of a 200-metre cliffThe official announcement will come from Fifa on December 11, but there is no opposing bid following Australia’s withdrawal.As such Saudi Arabia will become the second Middle Eastern nation (behind Qatar) to host the biggest sporting spectacle on the planet in 10 years time.The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, named after the country’s prime minister, crown prince and de facto ruler, will be one of 11 new venues to go alongside four current grounds. Another futuristic arena is being built in Neom.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe amazing structure will not be reachable by car as it will sit 350m above ground in the as-yet unbuilt city of Neom, known as “The Line.”It is a vertical garden city without cars, streets or carbon emissions for its residents all in a single, long building.The Neom Stadium will not be reachable by carThe new arena will sit atop the city of NeomFull list of the stadiums with their capacitiesRiyadhKing Salman International Stadium – 92,760King Fahad Sports City Stadium – 70,200Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium – 46,979New Murabba Stadium – 46,010Roshn Stadium – 46,000Prince Faisal bin Fahad Sports City Stadium – 46,865South Riyadh Stadium – 47,060King Saud University Stadium – 46,319JeddahKing Abdullah Sports City Stadium – 58,432Qiddiya Coast Stadium – 46,096Jeddah Central Development Stadium – 45,794King Abdullah Economic City Stadium – 45,700Al KhobarAramco Stadium – 46,096AbhaKing Khalid University Stadium – 45,428NeomNeom Stadium – 46,010 More

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      in Soccer

      Inside the incredible rise of Carlos Baleba who is the latest hidden gem set to become Brighton’s next superstar

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      THREE-YEARS-AGO Carlos Baleba was grinding for a professional contract at a football school in Cameroon – now he’s looking like Brighton’s new £150million man. The Cameroonian 20-year-old is the next hidden gem to be unearthed at the Amex as he follows in the footsteps of Moises Caicedo, Marc Cucurella and Alexis Mac Allister. Baleba has started eight of Brighton’s first 11 Premier League matchesCredit: GettyCarlos Baleba joined Brighton for £26min the summer at age 19 from LilleCredit: INSTAGRAM @carlos_balebaBaleba often wore football boots that were old, broken or too big when he was growing upCredit: INSTAGRAM @carlos_balebaBaleba announced himself to the world when he came on at half-time in the 2-1 win over Manchester City last time out.He flipped the game on its head, adding oomph and creativity at the base of Brighton’s midfield to stun the likes of Erling Haaland and Phil Foden. Baleba conjured up the winning goal with an exceptional move to Joao Pedro before Matt O’Riley fired home. His 45-minutes overall against Man City was a perfect summary of the all-round great midfielder Baleba is to have in a team. READ MORE FOOTBALLHe has shown he is a player full of drive and dynamism, physical prowess and technical skill. Why he could be worth £150mBaleba has established himself as a key cog in Fabian Hurzeler’s team, starting eight of the first 11 Premier League games under the German boss this season. It would have been nine starts, but a knee injury kept him on the bench during the 2-1 defeat at Liverpool. Baleba joined Brighton for £26m in the summer of 2023 at age 19, a fortnight after Caicedo’s British record £115m Chelsea transfer, having played just 21 times in Ligue 1 for Lille.Most read in SportFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCaicedo was also 19 when Brighton signed him for £4m from Independiente del Valle in his homeland. Baleba made 13 appearances for Lille’s B team, before making his first-team debut last September as a substitute in a 1-0 win against Lens.Celtic hero Matt O’Riley spotted as he returns to training at BrightonHis first Ligue 1 start came in January in a goalless draw with Stade Brestois.Paulo Fonseca, current AC Milan coach, and Baleba’s manager at Lille, said at the time: “I think that today Baleba is a player who can be a starter. He represents the future of Lille.” It has taken less time for Baleba to make his mark at the Amex, with him now boasting the third-most combined tackles and interceptions per 90 minutes in the top-flight this season.His per-90 figure for tackles plus interceptions of 5.36 is bettered by only two players with over 400 minutes, Mario Lemina of Wolves and Noussair Mazraoui of Manchester United.Another high figure which also stands out is his carrying into the final third.This season, he’s doing that 1.88 times per 90 minutes, the same as Declan Rice and slightly more than Dominik Szoboszlai.Baleba made 19 passes when he came on against Pep Guardiola’s side, failing to complete only one. One of his 18 completions, a pass to Pedro, led to O’Riley’s winner. Of the 98 midfielders to make five or more Prem starts this season, only Rodrigo Bentancur is averaging more interceptions per 90 than Baleba. He also ranks fifth in the league for times winning back possession per 90 minutes.Humble beginnings Baleba was born in Douala, the largest city in Cameroon and where the legendary Samuel Eto’o was born. Growing up wasn’t easy for the Brighton midfielder who often wore football boots that were old, broken or too big. He said: “I lived in a hut made of planks. In front of my door, there were truck tires.” He added: “Everything I was given, I put it on. I didn’t complain.” It’s no surprise that Baleba was nicknamed Diego Maradona during his youth days, due to his technical level and ability to score goals on his own.  He said: “They used to call me Maradona when I was a winger. I used to score a lot of goals from there.“My speciality, my best move was the ‘virgule’ [rolling ball round in a semi-circle]. “I copied it off Ronaldinho. I mastered the technique when I was facing the goal, or by the corner flag.“I did some damage with it. I don’t really do it any more, but I have not forgotten how. And I could still do one, so watch out.“One match as a kid I was running towards goal and the goalkeeper rushed out and crashed into me.“I was hurt and fell, my thigh hurt really bad. I couldn’t run or even walk that well – so they moved me into midfield from the wing.“I felt comfortable there, and had freedom. I could overcome opponents with my technical ability. And once there, I stayed there and never moved away.”READ MORE SUN STORIESBrighton have seen many talented midfielders come through in the last few years – Caicedo, Mac Allister and Yves Bissouma to name a few.Baleba could become the best of the lot and that may mean that he is next in line in the Brighton departure lounge queue. More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Ruben Amorim’s first week as Man Utd boss including sacking a legend, dinner out, meeting fans but NO coaching

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      RUBEN AMORIM’s start to life at Manchester United has been eventful, to say the least.Officially, the Portuguese boss, 39, will take control of his first training session next week – when his work permit is expected to have arrived.Ruben Amorim has had an eventful first week as Man Utd bossAmorim’s plane touched down in Manchester on MondayAmorim is greeted by CEO Omar Berrada at United’s training complexThe former Sporting Lisbon manager has not been able to work with his players at Carrington yet.It is understood United do not expect there to be any problems in Amorim obtaining the appropriate paperwork needed to start taking training sessions.However, even though he’s banned from the training pitch he’s certainly been busy in the interim – plotting moves from his base at the five-star Lowry hotel, where Jose Mourinho made his base during his tenure at OId Trafford.This included sacking a club legend, meeting fans on a stadium tour, and dining at a famous Manchester hotspot.Read more Man Utd newsSunSport looks at what Amorim has done so far.Arrives in ManchesterAlthough he is unable to share his methods with his players, he has made use of his time by familiarising himself with his new surroundings.Amorim arrived on Monday, via a private jet from Beja international airport that was the most tracked flight in the world on popular flight tracking site Flightradar24.He soon visited United’s training base and met CEO Omar Berrada, sporting director Dan Ashworth and technical director Jason Wilcox.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSGiven that many of his players are on international duty, those training sessions won’t be missed.Mason Mount and Leny Yoro, who are stepping up their comebacks from injury, were on hand to meet their new gaffer.Man Utd fans claim Ruben Amorim could be ‘new Jurgen Klopp’ after heartwarming gesture on stadium tourAmorim has already assembled a crack team of six staff members, who will join him on his journey.Assistants Carlos Fernandes, Adelio Candido, Emanuel Ferro, as well as goalkeeper coach Jorge Vital, sports scientist Paulo Barreira, and analyst will join Eduardo Rosalino.However, there was one crucial decision that had to make regarding his coaching set-up.Sacks Van NistelrooyImmediately, as he soon as he arrived, a decision was made on Ruud Van Nistelrooy.The Dutch legend, a hero for many Manchester United fans, was keeping the Red Devils hot seat warm for Amorim, but he was soon dismissed.He signed off in style – with United winning 3-0 against Leicester City on Sunday.It capped off a decent run for Van Nistelrooy, who had overseen three wins and a draw as caretaker manager.Van Nistelrooy was keen to stay on in a coaching role at United, although Amorim saw it differently.Before he wielded the axe, Amorim told the press about Van Nistelrooy’s future: “About a legend of the club. He did a great job. I have to talk with him tomorrow.Mason Mount meets new boss Amorim at CarringtonClub legend and caretaker manager Ruud Van Nistelrooy was axed by Amorim”Then I will explain everything. I am very clear and I will tell you like it is. Let’s wait until tomorrow.”Posh noshHale village is a popular spot for Manchester United’s footballers.Many live close by and frequent the top eateries in the Cheshire area.One of the most famous is Italian restaurant, Cibo.Erik ten Hag was often seen dining there with his wife during his time in Manchester.And it seems that Amorim also got the same tip.This week, he was seen leaving the posh hotspot with several of his coaching entourage.With pasta dishes costing around £18, and meat dishes between £18-£37 – it would have been a costly bill.It has been reported that Amorim is set to make £6.5million-per-year at Old Trafford in a deal that runs until 2027.Amorim signs autographs outside Hale hotspot CiboCibo was a favourite of Erik Ten Hag’s and is a regular haunt for United starsread more sport featuresStadium tourAfter visiting the training ground and meeting senior staff at the club, Amorim then paid a visit to Old Trafford, itself.He was shown the media room by club staff – joking that it seemed familiar.”This is funny. I’ve watched this room many times,” he said.And in an incredible gesture, he popped in to see the public tour of the historic stadium.The club shared a video in which Amorim joined fans in the dressing room and made sure to give each of them a handshake.He said a couple of words to the fans in which he joked one would be playing and one would be on the bench.Fans hailed the moment on social media, which reminded some of when Jurgen Klopp arrived at Anfield.One posted: “Already more handshakes and hugs than Klopp during his first week in club. We are so clear!”A second commented: “Could be their Klopp if they get their s**t together to be honest.”A third wrote: “What a guy.”On Wednesday, Amorim took a tour of Old Trafford and sat in the media roomUnited’s impressive trophy cabinet was shown off to AmorimAmusingly, Amorim made United fans’ days by joining them on the club tourHis first injury blowBut, it hasn’t been all plain-sailing.When Erik Ten Hag was boss, he fell foul to a dreaded injury curse.And Amorim will be hoping that he will be luckier with the squad he has inherited.However, he was dealt with a huge blow regarding Lisandro Martinez’s fitness.The Argentinian defender had linked up with the international squad for their matches against Paraguay and Peru.But the defender was sent straight back to Manchester after national team medics discovered a “significant hip injury”.It is believed he picked up the issue in the 3-0 win over Leicester on Sunday but flew to join the Argentina squad before it was evaluated.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.Many of Utd’s stars have been absent during training this week on international dutyLisandro Martinez may have given new boss Amorim an injury headacheReports in Argentina claim he felt “discomfort” after a coming together with an opponent.Despite completing 90 minutes, the pain has left him unable to “function normally”.Message to fansAmorim gave in his first interview as Manchester United boss on Friday evening.And he spoke of the ‘connection’ he already feels to the club and his determination to ‘do something special in a special club’.He said : “A lot of people talk about the 3-4-3, 4-3-3 and all that stuff. But when I think as a player or as a team-mate at United, it is not a system of formation.“It’s the character of the players, the way they see the club. So we have to focus on that before everything about how we play, how we press.“The most important thing for me at this moment is to create the principles, the identity and the character that we had in the past.“It’s about the team, that’s the most important thing for me, because if you work as a team, then the talent individually is going to shine.READ MORE SUN STORIES“But if I had to explain the important thing, it is the character, the way we fight, the way we play – we must have an identity.Life as a Manchester United manager has begun for Ruben Amorim. More

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      Ruben Amorim gives first Man Utd interview and reveals number one priority to revive fallen giants

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      RUBEN AMORIM may have been at Old Trafford for less than a week – but already there is no doubt that he is a quick learner.As the latest man charged with bringing the glory days back to Manchester United, Amorim knows the mountain he must climb.Ruben Amorim gave his first interview as Manchester United bossCredit: Manchester UnitedAmorim replaces Erik ten Hag as new permanent Man Utd managerCredit: GettyAmorim is focused on finding Man Utd’s identity as managerCredit: GettyThere will be no quick fix, no magic wand and no guarantee a 21st title is just around the corner.He might be one of the youngest gaffers in the game, but the Portuguese boss is already way too old-head wise to make promises he will struggle to deliver.But Amorim – like his fellow countryman Jose Mourinho – knows the value of words. Not the Special One so much as the Shrewd One.This is a guy who Cristiano Ronaldo once dubbed The Poet because he is such an impressive speaker.Read More on Man UtdThere was certainly much to like in his first interview since becoming the sixth man of the post-Fergie decade to fill the Old Trafford hotseat.And the loudest message will have been music to the ears of every United fan – every football fan in fact – who scratched their head throughout the Erik ten Hag reign.When Ten Hag packed his bags for the final time last month, no-one – supporters, pundits, most worryingly of all players – could give a definitive answer as to United’s identity.United had none when he arrived and an even more confusing one when he left. Amorim arrived armed with that knowledge – and rest assured, those days have gone.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThere will be no muddy waters in that respect under the new chief. No wasting time in proving it either – he wants it now, from day one, as clear as a bell.Forget all talk of formations, of 3-4-3 or 4-3-3. Ignore whether he’ll go with wing-backs or wingers. All that can come over time.Ruben Amorim arrives in Manchester ahead of starting role as Man United managerRight now the job is to bring back that identity. And he isn’t prepared to wait.Amorim insisted: “A lot of people talk about the 3-4-3, 4-3-3 and all that stuff. But when I think as a player or as a team-mate at United, it is not a system of formation.“It’s the character of the players, the way they see the club. So we have to focus on that before everything about how we play, how we press.“The most important thing for me at this moment is to create the principles, the identity and the character that we had in the past.“It’s about the team, that’s the most important thing for me, because if you work as a team, then the talent individually is going to shine.“But if I had to explain the important thing, it is the character, the way we fight, the way we play – we must have an identity.Amorim is determined to get Man Utd back to the top of English footballCredit: Getty’We must have an identity’“If our players take the shirt, they will know it is the Manchester United team. Where everybody thinks the same, running back, playing, enjoying it.“I can say the popular thing, which is to win. And of course everybody wants to win – I want to win with my players and with the fans.“But to win with an identity and one idea, that is the thing that I am focused on all the time.”After the often deadpan and straight bat days of Ten Hag – for all it brought two Cups – Amorim is already blowing through Old Trafford like a breath of fresh air.Don’t be fooled into thinking the smile is the sign of a soft touch. He showed in four years that turned Sporting Lisbon from fallen giants into champions there is a ruthless streak too.So when United’s stars return from international duty next week, there will be no honeymoon period, no gentle easing in under the new gaffer.The Portuguese gaffer will have a job on his hands to bring back the killer instinctCredit: GettyNo honeymoon periodHe wants them at it straight away – in his eyes, the only way to buy breathing space is through victory. So they’d better be prepared to graft.Amorim added: “We know we need time, but we have to win time and the way to do that is to win games.“But again the most important thing for me is identity. So from day one we will start with our identity.“Of course we are going to prepare, how to play, how to press, these small things, small details.“But you cannot go 100 per cent on every detail because it will be confusing for the players – so if I have to say one thing, my main goal, my first goal, is identity.”Amorim already knows all about the United one of old, too, after a top-to-bottom tour of the place. He reckons it’s a trip every one who pulls on a red shirt should make.Amorim left Sporting fans devastated when he opted to move to the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty’You have to FEEL this is Man Utd’He added: “You see the trophies, you see the tragedy we have as a club. You can understand the history, after the crash, then we were European champions.“It is important to put that kind of strength in our team. So when players come here, they should make the same tour.“You have to FEEL this is Manchester United because if you go a lot of years without winning, you start losing that.“So you have to be very clear on the message you want to put to the players.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhatever the next couple of years bring, there will be no doubting that under Amorim. Maybe not happy days are here again just yet…but you sense they might be just around the corner.FOR THE FULL INTERVIEW GO TO MANUTD.COM, MUTV AND THE CLUB’S SOCIAL MEDIA OUTLETS.Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. 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