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      David Beckham reveals fears Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi transfer would be HIJACKED as he names club that ‘worried’ him

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      DAVID BECKHAM has revealed the one club that had him “worried” when competing for the signature of Lionel Messi.Messi made his spectacular move to Inter Miami this summer after two seasons in Ligue 1 with Paris Saint Germain.
      David Beckham has revealed he was worried about one club hijacking his move to bring Lionel Messi to Inter MiamiCredit: Alamy
      And since joining Beckham’s MLS outfit he has excelled scoring scoring 11 goals and registering five assists in just 14 appearances.
      But it might not have been the fairy tale move that Becks had dreamed of had Barcelona got their way in the summer window.
      Speaking to The Times, the former Manchester United and England legend revealed he was worried that Barca would snatch Messi away from him.
      He said: “We always knew there would be competition. The time I got a bit worried was when Barcelona showed interest.
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      “The club obviously pulls on his heartstrings and he never really got to say the goodbye he deserved there.
      “That was the only time I started to worry he might go somewhere else. But we did everything possible — me, Jorge and Jose [Mas].”
      Messi rose through the ranks at the famous La Masia academy and spent 16 years in the Barcelona first team.
      He featured 778 times for the Catalan giants while amassing an astonishing 975 goal contributions.
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      Messi spent 16 years at Barcelona before leaving for PSG in 2021Credit: AFP
      And Barcelona were seemingly keen to reunite with the Argentine in the summer before he decided to head to the US to join Inter Miami.
      However after winning ten La Liga titles and four Champions League’s with the club, Messi decided to opt for a new challenge across the pond.
      And Beckham couldn’t have been happier to make the groundbreaking signing for his Florida side.
      He said: “Getting that phone call that he’s decided to come to us… It still gives me goose bumps.
      “I promised the fans and people of Miami that I wanted to bring some of the best players in the world. I am sure every owner says that but, from day one, he was the dream player I wanted to bring to Miami.
      “I see him in our kit, I watch him train and play, and I can’t believe that we have Lionel Messi in our club.”
      The eight time Ballon d’Or winner has already made a huge impact on Inter Miami after he helped them win their first ever piece of silverware, the Leagues Cup.
      Beckham recalled how special it was to sign Messi for Inter MiamiCredit: Getty
      Messi helped The Herons win the Leagues Cup when he first arrivedCredit: Getty More

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      Messi Surcharge: Red Bulls, Other M.L.S. Teams to Charge More for Miami Games

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      A Red Bulls promotion has some fine print: If Inter Miami is the opponent, you get a different game.A holiday deal offered by the Red Bulls soccer team includes some merchandise, like a travel mug, as well as tickets to two games, including its first home game.But there is some fine print. The Major League Soccer schedule will not be announced until the end of the year, and if it turns out that the home opener is against Inter Miami, fans who buy the package will get tickets for the second home game instead.The reason is Lionel Messi.Miami is the team of Messi, the global superstar, and a chance to see him is a lot more appealing than a random game against, say, Toronto F.C. Any time he comes to town will be an event, and teams don’t want to just throw such a golden ticket into a package deal.Some Red Bulls fans who noticed the fine print were annoyed and expressed that on social media — words like “gouge” were common. But at least a few others shrugged it off as a smart business move. “It’s purely naïve to expect the league not to try to capitalize on this at all costs,” said Dan Rodriguez, a Red Bulls fan from Westchester County, N.Y.The Red Bulls did not respond to a question about the ticket offer. Even if fans lose the Messi game, the deal still includes a game against the team’s regional rival, N.Y.C.F.C. And because there are 29 M.L.S. teams, the chance that the first game will actually be against Miami and Messi is slim.Around the league, though, teams are seeing a gold mine in Messi. Not every team has set its full pricing yet, especially since the schedule has not been announced. But the Columbus Crew is charging at least $382 for its home game against Miami and $421 and $679 for better seats. In contrast, tickets for ordinary Crew games this year could be had for as little as $40, or less as part of a season ticket package.Dynamic pricing is not unusual in M.L.S. or other sports. A big game against a rival might cost slightly more, but not several hundred dollars more.Miami itself is charging between 46 percent and 82 percent more for standard season tickets than it did this year, when Messi joined midseason. Less expensive packages are now about $800 for 17 games, and other season tickets are $4,000, $7,000 or even $10,000 for seats with club access.That puts Miami as one of the priciest season tickets in the world. The most expensive season ticket to Tottenham, in the English Premier League, costs $2,498, and it is $1,021 for Barcelona, World Soccer Talk reported.Messi signed for Miami in July, when many tickets were already sold. That meant fans already in possession of tickets to his games were able to cash in on a resale, while no extra money flowed to the teams. For next year, teams have time to plan and get some of that markup for themselves.Buying a season ticket to see another team that is scheduled to play Miami is one way to see Messi. Fans who do so will enjoy seeing Messi when he comes to town, or flip their tickets on the secondary market for a big payday.Of course that’s assuming Messi plays. He will turn 37 during the M.L.S. season and missed some games this year with a scar tissue ailment. When he did not play, many fans, some of whom had forked over top dollar, grumbled.After he missed a game in Chicago in October, for which 61,000 tickets had been sold, the Chicago Fire offered $250 credit for season ticket holders and $50 to single-game buyers as recompense.M.L.S. teams around the country will have visions of full houses of fans in expensive seats, and not of refunds, for 2024. More

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      Former Man Utd coach who players cruelly branded ‘Ted Lasso’ lands first manager job in two years

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      FORMER Manchester United coach Chris Armas is set for his first managerial job in two years, according to reports.The Athletic claim that the Colorado Rapids are on the verge of hiring the former United man.
      Armas was regularly spotted with a pair of AirPods in his earsCredit: PA
      The American coach was cruelly dubbed ‘Ted Lasso’ during his stint as the assistant manager to Ralf Rangnick in the 2021-22 season.
      Manchester United’s stars were left frustrated by Rangnick’s apparently “old fashioned” approach to managing and the fact that he left most of the coaching to Armas.
      The coach cut a distinctive figure thanks to the fact he always had a pair of Apple AirPods in his ears while on the bench – something he used to communicate with fellow coach Ewan Sharp.
      After leaving Manchester United along with Rangnick in 2022, Armas had a brief stint at Leeds under Jesse Marsch’s stewardship.
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      Armas took over from Marsch at the New York Red Bulls in 2018 in his job in football as a manager.
      He won the MLS supporters shield trophy with the team and had a record of 33 wins, 27 draws and 11 defeats.
      His only other job as a manager came when he was coach of Toronto FC in 2021 – but he was let go after just 11 matches.
      His new side, The Colorado Rapids finished bottom of the MLS Western Conference last season.
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      The Rapids parted ways with former coach Robin Fraser in September.
      Armas had a successful MLS career as a player, being named in the MLS best XI five times.
      He won an MLS Cup and four US Open Cups with the Chicago Fire.
      Armas also made 66 appearances for the US national team between 1998 and 2005. More

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      Lionel Messi’s wife Antonela Roccuzzo opens door to Luis Suarez’s Inter Miami transfer with cheeky message to his wife

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      LIONEL MESSI’S wife Antonela Roccuzzo has opened the door again for Luis Suarez to make the move to the MLS and join up with her husband at Inter Miami.The forward has been linked with the David Beckham-owned club extensively over the past year.
      Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez formed one of the most potent strike forces in world footballCredit: EPA
      Antonela Rocuzzo called on Balbi Suarez for the two to ‘renew their photos’ – hinting at a reunion in MiamiCredit: instagram @antonelaroccuzzo
      Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino even said that he had drawn up plans for if the Miami club signed the Uruguay striker next season.
      He told the American press going into the closing stages of Miami’s season: “Within our analysis of the upcoming season, and the needs we may have, we have an analysis with Luis and an analysis without Luis.”
      And Messi’s wife, Antonela, has now poured petrol on the fire of the rumours.
      She posted a collage of her and Suarez’s wife, Balbi, on her Instagram story to celebrate her 34th birthday.
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      Her caption read: “Happy birthday. For more laughter, more stories, and more sunsets together. I adore you and miss you.”
      And then the kicker: “PS: we have to renew our photos friend.”
      Rumours of Suarez, 36, joining up with Messi in Miami are now at fever-pitch – with the club even releasing Josef Martinez to help make room for the former Premier League golden boot winner.
      There is a definite ex-Barcelona feel at Inter Miami and the club are keen to maximise whatever Messi nostalgia they can generate.
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      Messi already plays alongside former Barca team-mates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba at the Florida side.
      Manager Gerardo Martino also previously managed Barcelona for the 2013-14 season, a year before Suarez arrived at the club.
      He resigned following a disappointing campaign after the star-studded team failed to win a trophy.
      Messi and Suarez are close friends off the pitch and formed a lethal partnership on it.
      Suarez has provided the most assists of any player for Lionel Messi in his career, with his tally standing at 47.
      The pair spent six seasons together at the Nou Camp – and will look to add to that tally should they be reunited in Miami. More

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      Forgotten one-cap England international became Inter Miami coach but missed working with Messi to join Championship side

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      A FORMER England international missed out on working with Lionel Messi after returning to the Championship.The one-cap Three Lions star had been coaching Inter Miami II after hanging up his boots in 2022.
      Lionel Messi missed out on playing with a forgotten England star at Inter MiamiCredit: Reuters
      Ryan Shawcross’ only England cap came against Sweden in 2012Credit: PA
      However, he had left the club by the time Messi headed stateside this summer.
      The World Cup winner has scored 11 goals in 14 appearances for Miami since then, claiming the golden boot as his side lifted the Leagues Cup.
      He could have worked with a Manchester United academy graduate had he made the move a year earlier, though.
      The ex-England defender in question is Stoke legend Ryan Shawcross.
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      His one and only senior international cap came in a friendly defeat to Sweden in November 2012.
      Despite failing to return to the England fold, Shawcross went on to make over 300 Premier League appearances for Stoke.
      He retired aged 34 at the start of 2022 following 11 months playing for Miami.
      Shawcross remained in Florida, working as an assistant manager for the club’s reserve side as he launched his coaching career.
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      Shawcross ended his career with Inter Miami before spending a year on their coaching staffCredit: Getty
      Come Messi’s arrival, though, he had already returned to England after leaving the MLS club at the end of last year.
      He is now back with Stoke, serving as assistant manager for the Potters’ under-18 side.
      During his playing days with the Championship outfit, Shawcross made 453 appearances.
      The defender was also the club’s captain for 11 years as well as winning promotion to the Premier League and appearing in their 2011/12 Europa League campaign. More

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      Phil Neville house hunting in Portland but what clues do his former £5m mansion and Miami pad give to what he’s seeking?

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      MANCHESTER UNITED icon Phil Neville has started house hunting in Oregon following his Portland Timbers appointment.The 46-year-old was named as the club’s new manager on Monday, five months after leaving Inter Miami.
      Phil Neville used to live in this mansion in the vicinity of ManchesterCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Neville also had a £2m penthouse in the centre of ManchesterCredit: Rightmove
      Neville was named as Portland Timbers manager this week – and is now looking for a new homeCredit: AP
      He was sacked by ex-United team-mate David Beckham in June following a terrible start to the MLS campaign.
      Just a week after leaving the DRV PNK Stadium, Neville briefly accepted a job working with the Canadian national team alongside manager John Herdman.
      However, the former defender recently decided to return to the MLS and has since moved across the US to Portland.
      Following his arrival, Neville admitted that the city reminds him of his hometown.
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      He said: “I have great memories visiting Portland, which reminds me of Manchester, my hometown, and I can’t wait for my family to get to know this beautiful city.”
      And while he is yet to find a permanent place to live in the area, he will likely go for something similar to his old home in the north of England.
      Cheshire mansion
      Before moving to the US, Neville sold his £5.25million Cheshire mansion.
      The six-bedroom property came with a swimming pool, gym, cinema, games room, mini indoor football pitch, underground car park and a steel-lined panic room.
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      The games room included a customised pool table – a feature Neville might want to replicate in Portland should be stick around in the job long enough.
      Neville’s £5.25m mansion was sold in 2021Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      It came with a customised games roomCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      As well as framed football shirts, it included a white leather sofaCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      The house also has an indoor poolCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
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      Manchester penthouse
      He also owned a two-storey penthouse flat in Manchester city centre.
      The £2m flat had been on the market for 13 years but it finally sold in January after a price reduction.
      It spans 4,400sq ft and boasts panoramic views of the city centre skyline.
      The property also has a curved entrance hall, a spiral staircase and a swimming pool and hot tub.
      The two-storey flat was on the market for 13 yearsCredit: Rightmove
      It boasts stunning views of ManchesterCredit: Rightmove
      It included a huge living roomCredit: Rightmove
      The master bedroom came with great views over the city – something he could be keen to replicate if he opts for a city centre homeCredit: Rightmove
      The bathroom spared not expense with his and hers sinksCredit: Rightmove
      Miami house
      Neville continued living in luxury after moving to Miami.
      His Florida house boasted a swimming pool in the garden and a grand piano in the hall.
      It also has a spacious kitchen and outdoor living area.
      Any new property has a lot to live up to to meet Neville’s high standards.
      Neville has lived in a spacious house in Miami since moving to the USCredit: Instagram @philipneville18
      His Miami home has a grand piano in the hallCredit: Instagram @philipneville18
      There was a large outdoor seating area – perfect for family get togethersCredit: Instagram @philipneville18 More

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      Phil Neville gets new job five months after being brutally sacked by ex-Man Utd team-mate David Beckham at Inter Miami

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      PHIL NEVILLE has been named new Portland Timbers boss – and claims it reminds him of Manchester.Nev got his wish of a swift MSL return, five months after ex-Old Trafford team-mate David Beckham sacked him at Inter Miami.
      Ex-Man Utd and Everton ace Phil Neville was dismissed by Inter Miami in June after 10 defeats in 13 MLS Eastern Conference matchesCredit: Getty
      David Beckham took the difficult decision to sack pal Phil Neville, replacing him with ex-Barcelona manager Gerardo MartinoCredit: AFP
      The former Lionesses chief, 46, was also linked with New England Revolution.
      But having been axed by Miami just before legends like Lionel Messi arrived, he’s found a club he insists rekindles golden memories.
      The ex-England full-back said: “I am massively excited about the challenge ahead.
      “From the very first moment I met the staff I knew it was the right opportunity for me, the right club for me and the right city for me.
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      “The fans are the most important part of this football club with their intensity and support, and I think this journey is going to be something special.”
      Nev added: “I have great memories visiting Portland, which reminds me of Manchester, my hometown, and I can’t wait for my family to get to know this beautiful city.”
      Timbers general manager Ned Grabavoy is “thrilled” to lure the ex-Everton star, whose last job was as assistant manager of the Canadian national team.
      Grabavoy said: “We look forward to making Phil and his family feel at home in Portland. 
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      ‘Phil’s character makes him the right person to lead this team forward as we continue to reshape the group with a goal of returning to sustained success.
      “His leadership qualities, diverse experience as a coach, and ambition to evolve made him a terrific fit here with us in Portland.”
      Neville will take over Oregon club Portland for the 2024 campaign after they finished tenth of 14 teams in this year’s MLS Western Conference.
      He succeeds former Millwall striker Giovanni Savarese, 52, who was ousted by the Timbers in the middle of last term after six years in charge. More

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      Shocking moment referee is surrounded by fuming players and MANHANDLED with shirt grabbed in angry scenes

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      AN MLS referee has been manhandled by fuming players in angry scenes from the weekend.The incident occurred during Sunday’s MLS Cup play-off match between the Vancouver Whitecaps and LAFC.
      MLS referee Timothy Ford was surrounded by angry Vancouver Whitecaps playersCredit: FOX Soccer
      Ford appeared to be manhandled during the angry scenesCredit: FOX Soccer
      Vancouver were trailing 1-0 in stoppage time when one of their players was blocked by referee Timothy Ford.
      LAFC then went on to score to the fury of the Whitecaps players, although the goal was disallowed.
      One of the players had collided with Ford as they went to take a shot following a Vancouver corner.
      The collision allowed LAFC to clear the ball and counter, with Carlos Vela teeing up Denis Bouange to roll the ball into an empty net with the goalkeeper caught up the field.
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      Ford was immediately surrounded by angry Whitecaps players, who could be seen pushing each other out of the way as they crowded round the official.
      Several of the fuming stars appeared to manhandle the official before a VAR review disallowed the goal.
      Reacting to the angry scenes on social media, one fan commented: “The ref has got to stop that, he stopped the play.”
      Another added: “Absolutely appalling from the referee.”
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      Manager Vanni Sartini was also seen raging on the touchline and ripped into Ford during his post-match press conference.
      “I don’t understand, to be honest,” he fumed.” Why he didn’t stop [play] because every time that the referee touches the ball… he stops and gives the ball to the team that was in possession of the ball.
      “We were in possession of the ball, and we lost possession because of him. I don’t know why he didn’t give us possession immediately.”
      The match would end 1-0, with LAFC sealing a series win and advancing to the next round of the play-offs.
      Steve Cherundolo’s sides will face either the Seattle Sounders or FC Dallas next for a place in the Western Conference final. More