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      in Soccer

      Brazil teen Endrick is next in line to succeed at Real Madrid, following £60m transfer, and is heir to Neymar’s throne

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      THROUGH the decades Brazil has produced generational talents who have taken the game to another level.Pele, Zico, Ronaldo, and Neymar all became icons of their own era – with some of those showcasing their talents on the European stage.
      Endrick is the latest generational talent to hail from BrazilCredit: Getty
      Aged just 17, he is expected to follow in the footsteps of Neymar and Ronaldo by starring in LaLigaCredit: Getty
      The next in line to follow those luminaries is Endrick, 17 only in July, but who is already carrying the weight of expectation of a nation desperate for success.
      It’s been 21 years since the Samba Boys last won the World Cup.
      However, a golden generation is on its way. And it’s being made at Real Madrid, with the expectation they will lead their country to glory.
      In 2022, it was announced Los Blancos had signed Endrick on a huge £60million deal.
      Read more football news
      He will join his fellow countryman Vinicius Jr, who has established himself as one of Europe’s most feared wingers, and the talented Rodrygo who has still to find his feet in Spain.
      For this season, Endrick is playing for Palmeiras, where he has trained since he was just 11, before he will link up with his new teammates in the 2024.
      The buzz about his natural ability began when he was just a kid,
      “I don’t see a ceiling for him.”
      As is with the modern age, Endrick’s youth career has played out on social media.
      Most read in Football
      Just type in his name on YouTube and hundreds of videos will appear of the youngster bamboozling the opposition.
      From scoring goals from the halfway line to beating four or five men or overhead kicks, his repertoire for the spectacular is there to see in a variety of clips.
      In five years he reportedly scored 165 goals in 169 games for Palmeiras youth teams.
      While in 2021, he attracted plenty of attention when he played in the Campeonato Paulista finals in three different age categories: U15, U17 and U20.
      Around that time, the club’s academy director Joao Paulo Sampaio tipped the teenager for the world stage.
      “If injuries respect him, I don’t see a ceiling for him,” Sampaio told AS. “As far as is humanly possible.
      “He has quality, a strong personality and a champion mentality. In that regard, he resembles Cristiano (Ronaldo). He trains hard, is kind and has humility. We love him very much because he makes himself loved. He tries to please everyone around him.
      “He has everything to be a world star in the future.”
      On his own game, Endrick has said: “I’ll always fight. I’ll be persistent and try until the last minute I’m in the game. I never give up, I pressure defenders, I run more than anyone else on the pitch.”
      Buzz about Endrick has been in overdrive since 2021Credit: AFP
      On the pitch, Endrick says he is a fighterCredit: Reuters
      Debut season
      Labelled the ‘hottest commodity in Brazilian football’, it was inevitable Endrick would break some records.
      He made his debut in 2022, aged just 16 years two months and 16 days – becoming the youngest debutant in Palmeiras’ history.
      Just shy of three weeks later, the talent announced his arrival with a brace in a 3-1 win over Athletico Paranaense.
      His two goals weren’t enough to break Toninho de Matos’ youngest goalscorer record in the Brazilian championship achieved in 1978 at just 15.
      But, after all the hype and talk, Endrick delivered and had landed.
      A scramble for his signature would begin.
      Europe’s top clubs linked
      Chelsea, Manchester City, Real Madrid, PSG were just some of the clubs romanticising with the idea of bringing Endrick to their club.
      The Blues moved fast, inviting him to their Cobham training ground.
      Endrick became Palmeiras’ youngest goalscorer with a brace against Athletico ParanaenseCredit: Getty
      Teen prodigy Endrick visited Chelsea’s Cobham training ground with a view to signing for the Blues
      The Premier League giants put on a show to convince him his future belonged in England.
      They enlisted the help of Brazil icon Thiago Silva to sell the project to Endrick.
      Many at Stamford Bridge felt that had done the trick, although a stumbling block was said to be the contract on offer – with an element of the deal performance-related.
      Months later, Endrick’s head was turned when he visited the Ciudad Real Madrid training ground.
      First, he was taken aback by the incredible facilities on offer.
      Second, the pathway to the first team appeared more plausible. Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo had similarly been plucked from Brazilian football at a huge cost, and had become established first team stars.
      There was nothing stopping Endrick from doing the same.
      Real, who had been chasing their man for years and coordinated with the same scout who found Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo and Federico Valverde to seal the deal, had got their man.
      But all hasn’t gone to plan
      The 14-times Champions League winners paid a premium of £60m for the then 16-year-old.
      READ MORE SPORT FEATURES
      After his Real Madrid deal was announced, Endrick suffered a dip in formCredit: Getty
      Endrick was moved to tears on the bench after suffering a goal draught
      That has, seemingly, made him a target to now be shot down.
      To comply with Fifa’s rules, Endrick won’t be able to join his new club until he turns 18.
      In the meantime, he has had another season in Brazil where he has suffered his first character-building crisis of confidence.
      A goal drought saw Endrick reduced to tears on the bench, after he was hauled off.
      His manager, strict disciplinarian Abel Ferreira, admitted he should “have given Endrick a hug” when he was hooked.
      Ferreira threw his support the prodigy’s way.
      “You have to be calm. Nobody likes criticism. There is tremendous pressure on him to score five or six goals and he tries to deal with it himself. The goal will appear at the right time. You just have to be calm and keep smiling,” he said.
      Back in April, Endrick also hit out at the pressure he is under and the talk of him as the ‘new Pele.’
      “Sometimes I ask myself: Why are there so many stories about me?” Endrick revealed to Brazil’s GQ.
      “I didn’t ask for this. There are situations that cross a line. ‘Ah, he’s the new Pele.’ Man, nobody is going to be Pele, he’s the king of football.”
      A target for the hatchet men, Endrick is now a marked man because of his reputationCredit: AP
      2024 promises to be a defining year in Endrick’s developmentCredit: EPA
      Endrick has had his ups and down. A target for the hatchet men, he has been kicked from pillar to post because of his reputation.
      Read More on The Sun
      Back in April, a goal against Agua Santa in the Paulista Championship Final was coupled with a typical swashbuckling run that took out the opposition defence.
      2024 is a fresh start for Endrick’s blossoming career. Expect him to make a splash when he arrives in Madrid. More

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      in Soccer

      What happened next to forgotten Man Utd wonderkids who were meant to become world-class but never made it

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have a reputation for bringing through world-class talent from their youth team. The Red Devils have produced hot prospects for several decades from Marcus Rashford to the iconic Class of 92.
      Federico Macheda burst onto the scene as a teenagerCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Plenty that have tried to follow in their footsteps went on to never make it.
      Here are five forgotten Man Utd wonderkids that didn’t live up to the hype.
      Federico Macheda
      It’s impossible to forget Macheda’s stunning debut as a 17-year-old.
      The substitute cut in brilliantly and bent a curling effort into the top corner to complete a 3-2 comeback against Aston Villa in 2009.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      Then his second appearance, the Italian striker again came off the bench to score inside 46 seconds versus Sunderland.
      Macheda would eventually get loaned out to Sampdoria, QPR, Stuttgart, Doncaster and Birmingham, failing to impress at all but the latter.
      United then permanently sold him to Cardiff and he went on to have a spell with homeland side Novara in Serie B.
      Macheda eventually stopped his journeyman style and spent four years at Greek club Panathinaikos, scoring 40 goals in 116 matches.
      Most read in Football
      He is now at Ankaragucu in the Turkish Super Lig.
      Macheda scored a stunning winning goal on his debutCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Darron Gibson
      Gibson was tipped as a star of the future when, winning the prestigious Jimmy Murphy player of the year award.
      He made his debut for United in 2005 before being loaned out to Royal Antwerp and Wolves.
      Gibson returned to Old Trafford in a squad player role for a couple of seasons and was handed an improved three-year contact.
      The midfielder started in the League Cup final in 2009 and scored a goal in Man Utd’s Champions League semi-final win over Schalke in 2011.
      The Irishman soon left for more first-team chances, joining Everton and then Sunderland.
      After good initial performances, injuries plagued his career and he was then charged with drink driving and failing to stop after a collision in 2015.
      Gibson would then get arrested again for a similar alleged offence three years later in a £75,000 Mercedes and he was suspended by Sunderland.
      He hung up his boots in 2021 after time at Wigan and Salford.
      Darron Gibson scored in a Champions League semi-finalCredit: Reuters
      David Bellion
      Bellion burst onto the scene at Sunderland and Man Utd signed him in 2003, following the Black Cats’ relegation for £2million.
      The French striker drew comparisons to Thierry Henry but netted just eight goals in two seasons at Old Trafford.
      He was subsequently loaned to West Ham in 2005 for more minutes but failed to make an impact in the capital, scoring once in just ten matches.
      Bellion then went to his homeland club of Nice for two seasons.
      He would then spend seven years with Bordeaux, dipping in and out of form, although he did feature as a back-up striker as they won the Ligue 1 title in 2009.
      He ended his career at Paris-based club Red Star and went on to be their creative director.
      David Bellion never made it at Man UtdCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Mads Timm
      Timm was plucked from the Odense youth-team in 2000 and made his one and only appearance in a Champions League group match two years after.
      However, he flopped at Man Utd and was nearly sacked when he received a 12-month sentence in a young offenders institute for reckless driving, racing team-mate Callum Flanagan on a public road, resulting in a nasty crash.
      Timm was called a “f****** idiot” by Sir Alex Ferguson and he later claimed the legendary boss was a “control freak” and his players were a “slave army”.
      The Dane had a forgettable spell at Walsall on loan before going back to Odense.
      He retired aged 25 due to falling out of love with football.
      Mads Timm was called a ‘f****** idiot’ by FergieCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Ravel Morrison
      Rio Ferdinand claimed Fergie “thought he was the best youngster he had seen”, but Morrison didn’t live up to the hype.
      After starring in the United academy, the troubled midfielder left for West Ham in 2012 with boss Sam Allardyce, saying “he needed to start a new life away from Manchester.”
      It has been claimed he owned three cars although he couldn’t drive.
      Morrison impressed in cameos for the Hammers, netting a sublime solo goal against Tottenham in 2013, which was a goal of the season contender.
      Read More on The Sun
      West Ham let the wonderkid go after reported off-pitch issues and he went on to play for Cardiff, Birmingham, QPR, Lazio, Atlas, Ostersund, Sheffield United and Middlesbrough.
      Wayne Rooney eventually took him under his wing, signing him at Derby and DC United.
      Ravel Morrison was highly-rated by Sir Alex FergusonCredit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Sheffield United star Maddy Cusack’s career rise which saw her juggle full-time job & football before death at 27

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      SHEFFIELD United star Maddy Cusack has been honoured for her impressive career with The Blades before her tragic death.The 27-year-old had risen to football fame, all while juggling a full time marketing executive role for the club.
      Maddy was the first team member to mark 100 appearances on the pitchCredit: Getty
      The young player tragically passed away on Wednesday, September 20Credit: Rex
      The talented Midfielder was one of the longest serving players for the club, and the first Women’s team member to mark 100 appearances on the pitch.
      She had also just signed a new one-year contract with The Blades in July earlier this year.
      “It feels amazing,” Maddy said in an interview. “I think everyone knows how much I love this club.
      “This club is my home, so to extend my contract for another year, yeah, I’m really excited and really pleased.”

      Maddy’s final post on social media was a photo of herself with a pen and her Sheffield United renewal contract for the season, which she captioned: “6 years & counting…
      “Really happy to have signed another deal with Sheffield United. Exited for the season!”
      The rising star started her football career at Nottingham Forest academy which saw her transfer to Aston Villa in 2012.
      She was also a student at the University of Derby, where she earned herself an impressive first-class honours degree.
      Most read in Football
      Maddy achieved the grade in marketing, public relations and advertising – which would later be put to good use working as a marketing executive at Sheffield United.
      The inspiring footballer was selected for England during the 2014 UEFA Championship where she played on the field in all group stages.
      After her stint with Aston Villa, the midfielder moved to Birmingham City in 2017.
      Her successful career with The Blades started in January 2019, and then head coach Carla Ward renewed her contract after 18 months.
      After playing for the club for over four years, Maddy was elected as vice-captain, as well as juggling her role as marketing exec.
      DEVASTATING LOSS
      Maddy tragically died on Wednesday, September 20, at a home in Horsley.
      Derbyshire Police have released a statement saying the death is not being treated as suspicious.
      The force added: “We were called to a property in Lady Lea Road, Horsley, just after 6.35pm on Wednesday 20 September.
      “A woman, in her 20s, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family are aware and are being supported by specialist officers.”
      The Blades announced Maddy’s death last Thursday.
      A statement read: “Sheffield United Football Club is devastated to report the sad news of the passing of Maddy Cusack.
      “Maddy, a women’s team player since 2019 and marketing executive for the Football Club, passed away on Wednesday.
      “A respected player, Maddy, 27, last season reached the milestone of 100 appearances for Sheffield United Women.
      “Additionally, she was a valued colleague in the offices at Bramall Lane, moving over from the Sheffield United Community Foundation to the Club in 2021 to help market all areas of the Blades.”
      And, tributes were paid at the Premier League home match against Newcastle United on Sunday.
      A picture of Maddy was put on the front of the matchday programme and the flag at Bramall Lane flew at half-mast.
      The team also played a video tribute while an emotional eulogy was read aloud.
      Maddy’s heartbroken mum and sister laid a wreath out, alongside Tony Currie and captain Sophie Barker.
      The talented midfielder’s teammates came onto the pitch wearing Maddy’s name on their shirts, with her number eight on their backs.
      They also donned black armbands in her memory, while other staff members wore black.
      A minute’s silence was held before kick-off to honour their late player, and in the eighth minute a minute’s applause roared through the stadium as fans rose to share their support and sadness following the tragedy.
      ‘WE WILL MISS YOU SO MUCH’
      Maddy’s teammates have also taken to social media to pay heartbroken tributes.
      Defender Molly Graham posted: “Absolutely devastating news.
      “Such a great person and team-mate.
      “You will be missed hugely! Rest in peace Mads.”
      Fellow defender Charlotte Newsham also wrote: “Beyond broken and shocked to have lost a team-mate and good friend.
      “We will miss you so much Mads.”
      Stephen Bettis, United’s chief executive officer, commented: “This is heartbreaking news for everyone at Bramall Lane.
      “Maddy had a unique position of being part of a number of teams at Sheffield United and was popular with everyone that she came into contact with.
      “Her personality and professionalism made her a credit to her family – she will be sadly missed.
      “Whilst taking in the news and moving forward, the Club will offer as much support as possible to Maddy’s family, friends and colleagues.”
      The Blades added: “Discussions over suitable tributes and celebrating Maddy’s life will continue privately.
      “The Club and Maddy’s family would appreciate a period of privacy and will not comment further at this sad time.”
      Meanwhile, tributes poured in from across the football world for the beloved player.
      Absolutely devastating news. Such a great person and team-mate. You will be missed hugely! Rest in peace Mads.”Molly Graham
      Leeds United wrote: “The thoughts and condolences of everyone at Leeds are with Maddy’s friends and family at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Maddy.”
      Luton Town noted: “Rest in peace, Maddy. We’re sending our love and wishes to your family and friends and your colleagues at Bramall Lane.”
      Shrewsbury Town said: “We’re so sorry to read this. All our thoughts and wishes are with Maddy’s friends and family, and everyone at Sheffield United.”
      Halifax Town added: “We’re all so sorry to hear this devastating news, we send our thoughts to all of Maddy’s family and friends and everyone associated with Sheffield United.”
      A number of Lionesses have also paid their respects.
      Aston Villa and England midfielder Jordan Nobbs wrote: “Sending all our love to Maddy’s family and friends.”
      Beyond broken and shocked to have lost a team-mate and good friend.”Charlotte Newsham
      Tottenham and Lioness forward Beth England posted: “This is devastating news.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      “My thoughts and love go out to her family, friends and everyone at Sheffield United. Rest in peace, Maddy.”
      Manchester City and England forward Lauren Hemp penned: “Awful awful news, my love and thoughts are with her family, friends and everyone at Sheffield.”
      Former Sheffield United player Tony Currie, Sheffield United women’s Sophie Barker and Maddy Cusack’s mum and sister lay a wreath in memory of MaddyCredit: PA
      Floral tributes were placed outside the stadium in memory of Sheffield United women’s starCredit: Reuters
      Players of England observe a minute of silence in tribute at the Women’s International match between England U19 v Germany U19 at St Georges Park on TuesdayCredit: Getty
      Players of England and Germany observe a minute of silence in tributeCredit: Getty
      Her successful career with The Blades started in January 2019Credit: Getty
      Derbyshire Police have released a statement saying the death is not being treated as suspiciousCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Biggest football kit fails including shirt banned for hidden Nazi swastikas and Aston Villa’s ‘sweaty’ fabric gaffe

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      FOOTBALL kits are a huge business.Every year, the world’s leading clubs will change up their shirts for a different design.
      Aston Villa’s 2023-2024 jersey had a major design flawCredit: Getty
      We’ve seen some incredible kits over the years that have become collector’s items.
      But, we’ve also had some absolute stinkers that have had bigger problems than just their design.
      And they have become iconic for all the wrong reasons.
      SunSport looks at the biggest kits fails, starting with a Premier League and a fabric issue.
      Read more football news
      Aston Villa 2023-2024
      Football kits should be made to feel light and airy to encourage a good performance.
      They should also be able to be able to handle the sweaty athletes that wear them.
      Aston Villa’s 2023-2024 jersey did none of that, and was a huge disaster for the English giants.
      During games, players appeared to be drenched as the shirts clung to their bodiesCredit: Getty
      The Castore-made jerseys appeared drenched when the club was in Europa League action against Legia Warsaw.
      Most read in Football
      Fans online said it looked the players had taken a shower in them.
      It could also have explained why they lost 3-2 in Poland.
      Worse still, reports said that Villa’s women’s team dreaded wearing it.
      Fiorentina 1992-1993
      The Serie A giants were caught in a race row in the early 90s with an away strip Gabriel Batistuta and Co had to wear.
      Sponsored by 7 Up, that bit looked retro and cool.
      But a closer inspection of the pattern on the shoulders and arms revealed a hidden design that looked like a swastika.
      Unfounded rumours claimed the club, who were famous for the fascist allegiances during World War II, purposefully included the Nazi symbol onto the fabric.
      Fiorentina soon pulled the shirt and said in a statement: “Fiorentina and the manufacturers, Lotto, would like to underline that the optical [swastika] effect is purely a matter of chance.”
      To add insult to injury, the club were relegated that season.
      Gabriel Batistuta models Fiorentina’s controversial 1992-1993 away jerseyCredit: Alamy
      On closer inspection, the pattern looked like swastikas
      Man Utd 1996-1997
      As excuses go for losing away Southampton, blaming the kit is a bit lame.
      But that’s exactly what Man Utd boss Sir Alex Ferguson did when his side wore their infamous grey shirt in 1996
      Fergie claimed the shirt blended into the crowd and his players couldn’t pick their passes out.
      3-1 down at half-time, they were ordered to change their shirts.
      Worth noting the score finished 6-3, so they lost the second half too.
      Man Utd’s grey shirts were a design flaw for apparently blending into the crowdCredit: Alamy
      Huddersfield 2019-20
      A publicity stunt, but one that epically failed and cost The Terriers a fine for misconduct.
      The drama unfolded before a preseason friendly against Rochdale, when Town marched out with a shirt that had a HUGE Paddy Power sponsorship banner across the jersey.
      Looking more like beauty pageant contestants than a football team, it infringed on the FA’s sponsorship rules that read,  ‘one single area not exceeding 250 square centimetres on the front of the shirt’.
      The FA banned the shirts, so it is unclear if it was something that would have continued for the rest of the season, or was just a joke for that game.
      Huddersfield Town’s Paddy Power joke backfired when they were finedCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      Barcelona 2015-2016
      When it comes to history, don’t break tradition.
      Barcelona fans had got used to icons like Diego Maradona, Johan Cruyff and Lionel Messi wearing the famous vertical red and blue stripes.
      But there was uproar when the stripes were changed to horizontal for the 2015-2016 season.
      A poll in a Spanish newspaper revealed that 78 per cent of Barcelona fans hated the shirts.
      The experiment lasted just one season, before Barcelona reverted back to their famous design.
      Interestingly, the Catalans also tried a break from the norm with a checked pattern that didn’t catch on.
      Barcelona’s horizontal stripes caused controversyCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      READ MORE SPORT FEATURES
      Cameroon 2002 & 2004
      Cameroon have often been experimental with their shirt designs, and they feature TWICE.
      At the 2004 African Nations Cup, they wore a onesie in the knockout stages created by Puma.
      Fecafoot, the country’s football federation, was fined £125,000 and they were docked six qualifying points from their World Cup group.
      After an appeal, common sense prevailed and the points were reinstated.
      Two years prior, Cameroon caused an even bigger stir when they opted for a vest top akin to an NBA basketball team.
      It proved to be a success, as they lifted the Africa Cup of Nations.
      However, before the World Cup Fifa hit them with a rule that football shorts have to have sleeves.
      Cameroon went sleeveless for the 2002 Africa Cup of NationsCredit: Getty
      Two years later, Cameroon wore a Puma designed onesieCredit: AFP
      Cardiff City 2012-2013
      The Bluebirds played in blue. Simple.
      So, when controversial former Malaysian chairman Vincent Tan wanted them to play in red, imagine the commotion it caused.
      His reasons were because red was a lucky colour in Malay culture, so they rebranded in 2012.
      He added it was part of ‘major and significant’ investment into the club
      A red dragon was also added to the club’s badge too.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Amazingly, this lasted until 2015 when Tan bowed to fan pressure to change back to blue.
      The kit was changed instantly and the badge was redesigned to feature a bluebird on it.
      Cardiff City changed their colours from blue to red in 2012Credit: Getty
      The brainchild of former owner Vincent Tan, fans revolted and in 2015 they went back to blueCredit: PA:Press Association More

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      in Soccer

      I’m an ex-Premier League star – now I sell swimming pools but fans keep ringing me up to sing France’s World Cup anthem

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      FORMER Premier League star Stephane Guivarc’h has swapped grassy pitches for water as he is now a swimming pool salesman.The Frenchman played for Newcastle and won a World Cup during his career.
      Stephane Guivarc’h has a very different career from when he was a footballerCredit: Federation Franchise Natation
      The former Newcastle star now sells swimming poolsCredit: Tanguy Piscines Bretagne | Constructeur de Piscine
      He works for a company that is run by his childhood friendCredit: Tanguy Piscines Bretagne | Constructeur de Piscine
      Guivarc’h played for Newcastle during his careerCredit: Getty
      The Magpies bought the striker for £3.6million in 1998 after he won the World Cup but he ultimately failed at St James’ Park despite scoring on his debut against Liverpool.
      Guivarc’h, 53, arrived at Newcastle with an impressive goalscoring record in France but could not replicate it in England.
      He was sold just months later to Scottish giants Rangers for £3.5m, where he spent one year before returning to France to see out his career.
      Since retiring in 2002, Guivarc’h has drastically switched his career as he entered the leisure business as a swimming pool salesman at a friend’s company.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      Unlike many former footballers, the retired striker is happy not to have spent much time in front of the camera and is happy with his “balanced life”.
      He told RMC: “I have been in the swimming pool business for 17 years.  The boss of the company is a friend of mine.
      “It started off because the business was a plumbing firm that was doing work on my house.
      “My friend then told me he was planning to create a swimming pools division, and that he was looking for a sales rep.
      Most read in Football
      “As I was unemployed at the time I told him I’d give him a hand – and 17 years later on I am still working with him.
      “I am out on the road all day, things are going very well and I am back home in the evenings.
      “I lead a balanced life. I don’t need to constantly seek to be in front of a camera or a microphone in order to exist.”
      However, just because he is selling swimming pools doesn’t mean he does not get recognised by French football fans.
      Occasionally he will be spotted and will end up speaking to clients about football for even longer than the swimming pool.
      Speaking to The Times, he said: “The first time I meet a customer, if they’re a football fan, it’s not uncommon to spend half an hour talking about swimming pools and an hour talking football.
      “It’s nice, it allows you to connect with somebody’s passion rather than just talking pools, pools, pools. They like to share a moment.
      “But it’s also a professional relationship. You don’t win every deal, there’s a competitive aspect there too.”
      With the swimming pool business being based in the village of Concarneau in Brittany, France there is a very common topic that comes to mind.
      He scored on his debut against Liverpool for the MagpiesCredit: Getty
      After only playing four times Guivarc’h left to join RangersCredit: Alamy
      He added: “The ’98 finals had a huge impact, as they were the first time France won the World Cup.”
      Guivarc’h’s fame from the tournament even sees him be called up by fans with his phone number available on the business’ website.
      He added: “My mobile number is on the company’s website, and fans still phone me up to sing the France World Cup anthem I Will Survive.”
      Guivarc’h has previously admitted that he could have stayed in football.
      After retiring he was the sporting director at Guingamp for six months but left the club after a fallout with the president.
      He said: “My mum then died, and I looked after my dad while I had my house built.
      “My childhood friend – who is now my boss – was fitting a water tank one day when I jokingly told him I could be a salesman for his swimming pool firm.
      “That put a flea in his ear.  He phoned me later on, we spoke the next day and I’ve now been with his company since.”
      Guivarc’h played 14 times for FranceCredit: Getty
      He helped the team win the World Cup in 1998Credit: AFP
      READ MORE IN SPORT
      Guivarc’h left Rangers having helped the club win a Scottish double with the league and cup titles.
      He rejoined his former side Auxerre where he spent the next two years of his career.
      It was his third spell with the club having played there twice either side of a spell at Rennes before joining Newcastle.
      He played 60 games in the French league scoring 25 goals before leaving in 2001.
      In the last year of his professional career, he was at Guingamp, but he only featured 11 times, scoring one goal.
      Guivarc’h played 14 times for France scoring one goal which came in a friendly game against South Africa in 1997.
      He was selected for the World Cup squad in France’s home tournament in 1998, and played in all six games of the tournament.
      He was awarded with a Knight of the Legion of Honour – the highest order of merit in France – following the victory.
      Former UEFA president Michel Platini revealed that the fixture for the 1998 World Cup final was fixedCredit: AFP
      Former France midfielder Michel Platini later claimed that the final was a fix to make sure that the team would not face Brazil until the final of the competition.
      Platini successfully got a change in the rules keeping France and Brazil separated until the final, having been named co-president of the World Cup Organising Committee in 1992.
      Platini added: “If we finished first in the group and Brazil finished first, we could not meet before the final.
      “We did not work until we were bored for six years to organise the World Cup not to do some little shenanigans.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      “When you are at home, you want to be able to enjoy things.
      “You think the others do not do it for their World Cups? France against Brazil in the final, that was the dream of everyone.” More

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      in Boxing

      Inside Logan Paul’s amazing lifestyle, living in a £11m Puerto Rican home, engaged to a supermodel and driving fast cars

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      LOGAN PAUL has built quite the life for himself.The social media influencer, 28, has amassed a fortune from savvy investments, a boxing career and being a pantomime villain of the WWE.
      Logan Paul lives a lifestyle to envyCredit: Social Media – Refer to Source
      The Prime Hydration drink co-founder is said to be worth north of £60million.
      That allows him to enjoy an incredible lifestyle.
      From living in a stunning mansion in Puerto Rico, to driving supercars and his engagement to Sports Illustrated model Nina Agdal, it’s fair to say Logan has got it made.
      SunSport takes a look at his wonderful existence, with the slightest bit of envy.
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      The mansion
      Paul has owned a number of amazing homes through the years.
      The first home he ever bought set him back around £5million and was in the Valley in LA.
      Then, he reportedly splashed around £1million on a desert ranch in California that formerly belonged to drugs guru Timothy Leary in the 1960s.
      But he left America behind and fell in love with Puerto Rico.
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      He and his brother Jake Paul are reportedly renting an £11million mansion in the Caribbean on the Dorado Beach East Community at the Ritz Carlton Reserve.
      The mansion boasts five bedrooms and seven bathrooms in a spacious 5,200 sq ft of living space, including marble floors.
      The open-plan lounge area boasts an eye-catching staircase leading to the second floor.
      Elsewhere there’s a full chef’s kitchen and dining room, as well as sunroom with pool table and huge swimming pool.
      There’s also a three-bed guest house on site.
      The luxury gated resort also boasts access to 2,000 acres of golf courses, tropical gardens and sandy beaches.
      Speaking on his podcast, Logan revealed his “gut” told him to move to the property.
      He revealed: “I went out there to scout it, and I fell in love with it.
      “Obviously, I’m impulsive, and I trust my gut, my instincts.
      “I feel like it’s the closing of a chapter and the opening of a new one.”
      YouTuber Paul left America behind to live in Puerto RicoCredit: Luxury Realty Group
      Paul’s Puerto Rico mansion boasts a stunning swimming poolCredit: Luxury Realty Group
      The property boasts five bedroomsCredit: Luxury Realty Group
      Marble flooring decorates plush dining roomCredit: Luxury Realty Group
      The stunning living room boasts high ceilings and plenty of spaceCredit: Luxury Realty Group
      Supercars
      The Ohio native loves cars, plain and simple.
      His mega car collection is testament to that, and boasts some incredible supercars.
      The most elaborate of his collection is a £280,000 Mercedes G550 4X4.
      Finished in white with huge black alloys, the Mercedes off-roader looks stunning, and even has its own digger.
      It’s powered by a 4.0 litre V8 petrol engine that produces 416bhp, with a nine-speed automatic gearbox.
      0-60mph takes 5.8 seconds, while the top speed is limited to 130mph.
      The range starts at £130,000, but Paul’s has all the trimmings.
      Like any true American, muscle cars are also important to Paul.
      The most elaborate motor in Paul’s collection is a Mercedes-Benz SUV with its own digger
      Paul is a fan of muscle cars – but gave his Dodge Challenger away to a fanCredit: Instagram @LoganPaul
      Logan Paul poses with his trendy Polaris SlingshotCredit: Refer to Caption
      In 2017, Paul revealed he broke a £1.5m BugattiCredit: Instagram / @loganpaul
      He had a £60,000 Dodge Challenger SRT8, that he absolutely loved. However, he ended up gifting it to a fan.
      It comes with a 6.4-litre V8 petrol engine that produces 470bhp.
      Paul also has a trendy three-wheel Polaris Slingshot, worth around £23,000.
      This two-seater is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine that produces 203bhp, while 0-60mph takes 4.9 seconds.
      But don’t leave him with a Bugatti Veyron. In 2017, he claimed he broke a £1.5million model.
      Supermodel
      Paul’s private life has always been one for the gossip pages.
      He has been linked to a string of beauties in the past, including Justin Bieber’s ex Chantel Jeffries fellow YouTuber Alissa Violet and Josie Canseco, the daughter of baseball legend Jose Canseco.
      However, Paul has finally settled down.
      In 2022, he met Danish-born supermodel Nina Agdal, who previously dated Leonardo DiCaprio.
      Nina Agdal is Paul’s beautiful fianceeCredit: @ninaagdal
      Supermodel Agdal has appeared in Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Edition six timesCredit: Splash
      Paul and Agdal got engaged in Lake Como, Italy
      Danish-born Agdal is Paul’s best friend
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      Earlier this summer, he got down on one knee to ask for the stunner’s hand in marriage in Lake Como, Italy.
      “Engaged to the my best friend,” the pair wrote in a joint Instagram post.
      In a separate Instagram Story, she gushed: “”I get to marry the boy of my dreams, my best friend, my rock, my soulmate. I love you soooooo much!!”
      Nina has built an impressive model portfolio, appearing in six Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issues, as well as the cover of the 50th-anniversary issue in 2014, where she posed with Chrissy Tiegen and Lily Aldridge.
      She has also appeared in various Victoria’s Secret photoshoots and walked the catwalk at New York Fashion Week.
      In 2020, the brunette launched her own fitness brand called The Agdal Method, with an app appearing in 2023.
      Lavish purchase
      Like many an influencer, Paul likes to spend his money lavishly.
      One of his more pricey purchased ended up being recorded as a Guinness World Record for being the most expensive Pokémon trading card sold.
      He is so proud of the rare 1998 Japanese Illustrator card, that he paid £4m for and wore it on a chain for his WWE debut in April 2022.
      Paul is a proud collector of rare Pokemon cardsCredit: instagram/@loganpaul
      Paul paid £4m for a Pokemon – a Guinness World RecordCredit: instagram/@loganpaul
      Paul showed off his card at Wrestlemania 38 – wearing it around his neckCredit: instagram/@loganpaul
      He showed off the “Gem Mint 10” graded card alongside The Miz in a tag-team match against Rey and Dominik Mysterio at WrestleMania 38.
      In 2023, he recalled the purchase on the latest episode of his Impaulsive podcast.
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      During a discussion about Pokemon cards with guest Prince Royce, Paul explained: “I love it. I love it dude.
      “I mean if you like video games that doesn’t surprise me but yeah I spent $5.3million on the card. It’s crazy.” More

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      in Soccer

      Cristiano Ronaldo’s amazing car collection features a £9m Bugatti, £60k Range Rover Velar and two Rolls-Royce motors

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO’S car collection just keeps on growing.The Portugal legend, 38, has earned millions from the game is able to afford the world’s best cars.
      Cristiano Ronaldo boasts a car collection worth £19million
      Ronaldo’s £9m Bugatti Centodieci has appeared in Saudi Arabia
      Bought in 2021, the Centodieci is the most expensive car in Ronaldo’s collection
      His staggering net worth – believed to be more than £500m – means he can continually add to his garage.
      With some of his money, he has continued to build on his impressive fleet – estimated to be worth around £19million.
      The pick of the bunch is a £9million Bugatti, that is one of only 10 ever made.
      While he also loves a Range Rover as his family car.
      Read more footballers’ cars
      SunSport takes a look at some motors decorating his amazing garage.
      Bugatti Centodieci, £9m
      Back in 2021, CR7 added the most extravagant and expensive car to his collection.
      The £9million Centodieci boasts an 8 litre W16 engine, with special models having 1600hp – some 100hp more than the Chiron and, overall, three times the price of that model.
      It can do 0-62mph in just 2.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 236mph.
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      His Centodieci has been spotted in Saudi.
      Ronaldo was recently seen in Riyadh behind the wheel of Range Rover’s new SUV.
      Bigger than the Evoque, but smaller than the Sport, it’s the perfect family car for the forward.
      It’s electric, so it’s good for the environment.
      It’s acceleration is quite slouchy though, measuring 0-62mph from 5.4 seconds.
      This stunning Range Rover Velar is now part of Ronaldo’s Middle East fleet
      Aston Martin DBS, £200k
      When Ronaldo played for Manchester United, he turned heads at Carrington as he rocked up to the gates in an amazing Aston Martin DBS Superleggera convertible.
      The Aston Martin DBS Superleggera boasts a 5.2 litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, providing a mind-boggling 715 hp.
      It has a top speed of 211mph, and can also go from 0-60mph in just 3.4 seconds.
      The car was certainly a worthy addition to Ronaldo’s stunning motor collection.
      When Ronaldo played for Man Utd, he had a Aston Martin DBSCredit: Alamy
      Mercedes G-Wagon Brabus, £600
      What do you buy your boyfriend if he has everything?
      Well, if you’re Georgina Rodriguez you get a massive, gift-wrapped Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
      The gorgeous former shop assistant made sure CR7’s had the best birthday ever for his 35th – gifting him a stunning Mercedes G Wagon Brabus that can cost as much £600,000.
      And the brilliant SUV can reach top speeds of 137mph.
      This customised Mercedes G-Wagon was gifted to Ronaldo by Wag Georgina Rodriguez
      Bugatti Chiron, £2.15m
      In 2017, Ronaldo’s need for speed saw the mercurial forward splash the cash on a stunning silver Bugatti Chiron.
      Incredibly, it can reach speeds of 260 mph, and does 0-60 in just under 2.5 seconds.
      As we said, he likes two of everything – and this was the second Bugatti he bought, although he denied buying a third  – the Bugatti La Voiture Noire.
      That was reckoned to be the most expensive car in the world EVER at £9.49million, and was snapped up by a mystery buyer.
      In 2017, Ronaldo bought a Bugatti Chiron – now worth over £2m
      Bugatti Veyron, £1.7m
      Only 450 Veyron 16.4 Grand Sports were built, so of course Ronaldo wanted a slice of that rarity pie.
      It cost him £1.7m, and the Portuguese legend bought the car as a treat after winning Euro 2016 with his country.
      Though the car was involved in a crash in 2022 in Majorca. The driver, who was reportedly not Ronaldo, lost control and the car skidded into a wall.
      The front of the Bugatti was believed to have been wrecked with investigators revealed no other vehicle was involved.
      The driver of the car did not suffer any injuries and signed an accident report.
      In 2022, Ronaldo’s Bugatti Veyron was involved in a crash
      Lamborghini Aventador, £260k
      Simply because a Bugatti Veyron won’t fulfil Ronaldo’s love of fast cars, in the same year he bought that motor he splashed on a Lamborghini Aventador.
      Made in 2011, it’s the most celebrated model by the Italian car designer – and owned by footballers all over the world, not scared of the outlandish price.
      Ronaldo celebrated his purchase on Instagram in 2016, with a picture with the caption: “Bom dia (good morning)”.
      Ronaldo poses with his £260k Lamborghini AventadorCredit: Instagram @Cristano
      Rolls-Royce Cullinan, £330k
      In 2020, Ronaldo added a Cullinan to his collection, having previously owned a Rolls Royce Phantom worth around £363,000.
      Showing his loyalty to his new employers, CR7 even personalised the interior with black and white leather.
      Standing at five metres long, the Cullinan boasts a V12 engine and a horse power of 571.
      It is the only SUV Rolls Royce have ever produced.
      CR7 is a huge fan of Rolls-Royce and has a stunning Cullinan
      Ferrari F12 TDF, £350K
      In 2017, Ronaldo bought an F12 TDF – another collector’s item with only 799 made in the world.
      It is certainly one of the favourites he owns, and is zippy with a top speed of 211 mph, and capable of doing 0-62 in 2.9 seconds.
      Needless to say, pet-friendly Ronaldo won’t let his pooches in though.
      A lover of supercars, this amazing Ferrari costs £350k
      Chevrolet Camaro, £35k
      Maybe he learned something from Sir Alex Ferguson about American cars, after all the former Manchester United boss drove a Chevrolet to training when he was Red Devils manager.
      A more economic motor than others in his garage, the Camaro has a 6.2-litre V8 engine that delivers 453 horsepower.
      It’s cheaper than anything else he owns, and was bought in 2016 as a family car.
      Showing that he doesn’t have to always drive flashy cars, Ronaldo was seen in an affordable Chevrolet
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      McLaren Senna, £1m
      A car made as a dedication to the legendary Brazilian racing driver Ayrton Senna, it would’ve set Ronaldo back around £1million – with only 500 models ever made.
      So enamoured by its performance on Top Gear, former presenter Jeremy Clarkson said of the McLaren Senna it has ‘rewritten the supercar rule book’.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Powered by a twin-turbo charged V8 engine that produces 800 horse power, it can hit 0-62 mph in just 2.8 seconds.
      Mika Hakkinen is another sports star who owns one of these beauties.
      This McLaren Senna, worth £1m, was another Ronaldo’s favourite toys More

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      in Soccer

      Megabucks life of ‘world’s sexiest footballer’ Alisha Lehmann as she builds fortune with Prime deal & sizzling calendar

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      SHE’S the Swiss sports star who has been branded the “world’s sexiest footballer”.And it’s not just on the pitch where Aston Villa star Alisha Lehmann is achieving her goals – thanks to a whopping 15.2million Instagram followers that have made her one of the most valuable stars in the women’s game.
      Alisha Lehmann has been branded the ‘world’s sexiest footballer’Credit: alisha-lehamann.com
      She reportedly earns £160,000 playing for Aston Villa but makes way more on the sideCredit: PA
      The 24-year-old is bagging extremely lucrative deals away from her sporting career, including partnerships with Boohoo, EA Sports and Adidas.
      Recently, Alisha was unveiled as the first female ambassador for sports drink Prime in a deal that PR expert Carla Speight could be worth up to £1million.
      And now she has just unveiled a sizzling 2024 calendar – selling signed limited-edition copies for £149.99 and normal ones for nearly £50.
      Carla tells us: “Alisha is the David Beckham of the women’s football world. She’s snapping up sponsorships with the likes of drinks, fashion and sportswear. 
      READ MORE ON WOMEN’S FOOTBALL
      “Like David Beckham, Alisha has realised football won’t last forever and she has to develop a lucrative career outside of it to secure her future.”
      Alisha’s latest deal is one of many money-spinning ventures that’s helping her to transcend football and live a lavish lifestyle – all while earning a tidy sum in the process.
      On her Instagram, there are scores of photos of the star soaking up the sun in exotic locations – on one occasion seemingly travelling by quadbike.
      Alisha regularly shares bikini snaps from her holidays abroadCredit: instagram/alishalehmann7
      The footballer is often pictured in fancy hotels and barsCredit: instagram/alishalehmann7
      Last year, she shared snaps from a break in Miami, Florida, where she swamp with dolphins.  
      Most read in Football
      Alisha also took a trip to Brazil in 2022, where she visited animal sanctuaries, and high-end nightclubs, went fishing and played golf. 
      During these trips, she has been seen sporting branded merchandise from hotel chains including Waldorf Hilton London and Melia Hotel Resorts.
      Additionally, she regularly gives shout-outs to car rental companies while posing alongside flashy Lamborghinis. 
      Sizzling side hustles
      It’s reported that Alisha earns £160,000 a year playing for Aston Villa but it seems the star could be topping up her earnings with her side hustles. 
      PR expert Carla points out that if just one per cent of her 15.2million Instagram followers buy her cheapest calendar, it could earn her nearly £7.6million. 
      The footballer also shares photos and talks to followers on the subscription site FanTime, where she charges £67 ($84) for a year’s membership and just over £8 ($10) per month. 
      Carla adds: “If only one per cent of her followers subscribe at the lowest rate, she will be bringing in £1.2 million per month.
      Alisha has launched a 2024 calendar and is charged nearly £150 for limited edition copiesCredit: Instagram @alishalehmann7
      She also has a Fantime account where she shares photos and talks to her fanbaseCredit: Instagram @alishalehmann7
      “Given that we know her engagement rate is around seven per cent, she could bring in even more than that amount in calendars, subscriptions – and she can do that for brands too.”
      Alisha was audaciously approached to produce saucier content last year, when she was offered an £83,000 ($100k) signing-on fee from the adult site My.Club.
      Mike Ford, the company’s vice president, told SportBible that she could earn a fortune posting “training photos, thirst traps and personally field questions from fans”. Sadly for the executive, she did not take up the offer.
      According to sources, it was Alisha’s decision to showcase her “sexy side” that contributed to her break-up with Aston Villa men’s team star Douglas Luiz.
      Last year, we were told: “When asked to do a calendar, she jumped at the chance to show off her sexy side but he was not happy.
      “He didn’t think it was something she should be doing. They rowed a lot and in the end, Alisha simply had enough.”
      Alisha also has a range of products, including hot pink cushions for £29.99, journals for £20, water bottles for £30 and even mousemats for £10.99.
      Before her deal with Prime, Alisha collaborated with a number of companies including Adidas, Bootbag and EA Sports, who create the video game Fifa.
      She has appeared in multiple videos for the football game including one alongside the musician Big Zuu and another unveiling her own “Be Brave” kit.
      PR expert Jack Cooper, from Ed Hopkins PR, told us: “Collaborations with brands like Adidas, EA Sports, and Bootbag further highlight her appeal to diverse industries, from sportswear to gaming. 
      Alisha has worked with a variety of companies ranging from Coca-Cola to EA SportsCredit: Instagram @alishalehmann7
      “Her diverse content – from football training videos to lifestyle and fashion showcases – means she can attract a broader range of brand partnerships.”
      Alisha has also worked with other companies including CocaCola Switzerland, Bootbag and Gisada.
      Carla says: “For longer-term deals, such as sportswear, lingerie, fashion and even fragrances, she could command six figures and receive commissions too.” 
      ‘Breaking the mould’
      Alisha is women’s football’s most followed star on Instagram and her fanbase is increasing regularly thanks to her daily posts.
      From July to September alone, she gained nearly two million followers and regularly gets more than one million likes on her posts.
      PR expert Jack says: “Alisha is breaking the mould, proving that today’s athletes are more than just players.
      Alisha has recently bagged a deal with Prime, which our expert claims could be worth £1mCredit: Instagram
      “With a robust following on Instagram, she’s more than just a footballer; she’s a digital influencer and brand in her own right.
      “Her collaboration with Prime, one of the largest streaming platforms globally, is indicative of the powerful confluence of sports, entertainment, and influencer marketing.”
      Pundit potential
      While Alisha has cultivated an engaged following on social media, she insists her focus is on football.
      Earlier this year, she told Sky Sports: “Obviously I have a lot of followers, but I never dreamed to have it. I just played and shared my life. It just became like this.
      “I don’t see myself as someone with loads of followers on social media, obviously I’m proud of it – alongside my football – but it doesn’t change anything.”
      Our experts predict she’s likely to capitalise on her knowledge of the game by providing match analysis, which could also earn her huge sums. 
      Carla says: “Alisha also has a fun and bubbly personality, which means she has the potential to take up a career in sports presenting. 
      “Sports programmes would snap up the chance to hire her as she has the potential to bring her 15.2 million followers and convert them into viewers for each programme she’s on. 
      “That’s a huge number for any show to get, so I expect she will be paid very well.”
      Alisha was part of Switzerland’s 2023 World Cup squadCredit: Getty
      Humble beginnings
      While Alisha lives a life many could only dream of today, her upbringing in Tägertschi, Switzerland, was very different.
      There she used to play “street football” daily from the age of five alongside her brother and cousins and credits them as “the main reason I play today”.
      Alisha started her career at Swiss club BSC YB Frauen, where she scored 25 goals in 52 appearances. 
      In 2018, she moved to the Women’s Super League after being signed by West Ham United and helped the squad reach the FA Cup final a year later.
      Alisha went to Everton on loan in 2021 before being signed by Aston Villa, where she has scored seven goals.
      She has also scored a combined total of 22 goals from 82 appearances for Switzerland’s youth and adult national teams.
      It’s clear there are big things in the 24-year-old’s future both on and off the pitch – but her main focus is staying humble and focused on her footballing career.
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      Last year, she told Sky Sports: “I don’t think that I’m better than anyone else, I come from humble beginnings with how I grew up with my family in Switzerland.
      “The people who know me always see the footballer. Every time I’m with my friends and family, I just speak about football.” More