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    Man City boss Pep Guardiola labels shock star as best in the world as he hails transformation since joining club

    RODRI has been hailed as the best midfielder in Europe by Pep Guardiola.The 27-year-old Spaniard produced a man of the match display for Manchester City on Wednesday in the Champions League.
    Rodri was in sensational form as Man City beat Red Star BelgradeCredit: Getty
    Man City boss Pep Guardiola called his midfielder the best in EuropeCredit: Getty
    The Etihad was silenced early on when Red Star Belgrade took the lead against the European champs.
    However, Rodri stepped it up a gear after half time along with his team-mates to launch a comeback and defeat Red Star 3-1 in their opening group match.
    The star, who joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2019, curled home his team’s third to seal victory.
    And afterwards his manager was quick to heap the praise on Rodri – especially amid the injury crisis he is currently having to manage in his midfield.
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    Guardiola said: “Right now, yeah. He’s the best. Hopefully he can be better, he has a good mentality and things to improve but he’s an extraordinary holding midfielder.
    “We were lucky the club signed this player and when he arrived he wasn’t this type of player.
    “Of course he played a large amount of games and now he’s one of the captains of the team.
    “He’s a fantastic holding midfielder. He’s a top class player, not just that, defensively, offensively, the composure, he reads the spaces, knows exactly when the men are free.”
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    Guardiola added: “Close to the box he is so dangerous. He loves to arrive in the final third and dribble and shoot.
    “He is playing really, really well. We have five important players injured. Sustaining that for a long time will be difficult but it is what it is.”
    Guardiola was not the only one to hail Rodri.
    Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand told TNT Sports that he was the “conductor” and the heartbeat of City’s team.
    He said: “He was in complete control – he is the conductor of this team. I think everything good that happens in this team he is heavily involved everywhere, and his composure in all phases of the game is super impressive.
    “Even today, the goal goes quickly around him and he caresses it into the bottom corner – it’s a majestic finish.
    “He reminds me of that big kid in the playground who you just can’t get the ball off.

    “That is what it must feel like when you are playing against him – it’s like in slow motion for him. It’s like watching a secondary school kid playing against primary school kids at times.”
    Rodri himself discussed how Guardiola has played a huge role in his development over recent years.
    He said: “The role is a difficult role. You have to learn by the years. I’m really happy with how I’ve grown in this position.
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    “You grow and understand more every year. It’s about not moving, always being the safety pass, being trusted by the teammate with a pass.
    “The most important part is knowing the role. You have to grow in the position and understand the team you are playing in, but I think it speaks volumes of the staff and Pep, whoever comes here does well and adapts easy.” More

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    I’m a Premier League star.. this is how I s*** myself crashing £210k Lamborghini on Christmas day dressed as snowman

    MICHAIL ANTONIO has explained how he crashed his £210,000 Lamborghini on Christmas day in 2019.The West Ham forward was dressed as a snowman when he crashed into a garden wall whilst driving his Lamborghini Huracan.
    Michail Antonio has explained how he crashed his £210,000 LamborghiniCredit: Instagram / @michailantonio
    Antonio crashed his Lamborghini Huracan on Christmas day in 2019Credit: The Sun
    The West Ham striker was dressed as a snowman at the time of the crashCredit: The Sun
    “This conversation is very like… (touches chest),” He told the On The Judy podcast. “Still to this day it’s hurt me.
    “Basically yeah, slippery road. Obviously, in the car, it holds corners nicely in it so I’m going like 30, maybe 35, on a 30 road.
    “It holds corners so I’m thinking I don’t even need to break, I’m just gonna go around the corner, sick car.
    “As I’m going round the corner, it skids. So I s*** myself and I slam on the breaks.
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    “Worst thing you can do on ice, yeah, slam on the brakes cause you just speed up. Slam on the brakes, just skid but I’ve just gone up the curb.
    “I don’t even remember it and then I’m seeing smoke coming out the front of the car.
    “The engines in the back so I’m thinking the car’s gonna blow up even though it’s the airbags. Having to jump out of the passenger side, the tiny car.”
    As for what happened next, Antonio added: “It’s a madness and the thing is, I’m in the snowman costume as well.
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    Antonio crashed into a garden wall after losing control of his carCredit: The Sun
    Antonio skid off a road and into the wallCredit: The Sun
    “I confiscate people’s phones. Like ‘take your phone, give me your phone’.
    “I was taking people’s phones but the only person who’s phone I didn’t take was the owner of the house and then she was the one who came out blogging and it was not even her garden bro.
    “So she lives around the corner, attached to the garden but her garden was on that side.
    “It was some next guy who I spoke to afterwards, it was his garden. He was cool but she’s like ‘oh a Lamborghini landed in my garden’. It’s not even in the garden. And then she sold the story again this year.” More

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    Why Glazers keeping hold of Man Utd could be good news for Chelsea as Blues directors make decision

    CHELSEA could receive a boost if the Glazers decide to keep hold of Manchester United.Both clubs are on the search for investment with Blues owner Todd Boehly reportedly open to offers.
    The Glazers refusing to sell Manchester United could benefit ChelseaCredit: PA
    Todd Boehly is open to investment offersCredit: Rex
    One has come in already from Ares Management – an investment firm who are understood to be willing to invest £400million in the club.
    John Terry is said to be fronting another group, but there could be a wave of offers for Chelsea to consider if the Glazers choose to stay at United.
    The Americans have received bids from Qatari Sheikh Jassim, as well as Ineos owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
    But the Glazers were also considering an alternative – to seek investment in return for a percentage of shares in the club.
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    That is believed to be co-owner Avram Glazer’s preferred option, and Elliott Management were one group that showed interest in investing earlier this year.
    Other firms have been linked but they could be forced to look elsewhere if the Glazers refuse to sell, which now appears likely with reports claiming they now want £10billion for the club.
    Some Chelsea directors feel that provides them with an opportunity to secure extra finance, per Nizaar Kinsella, though Tottenham and Liverpool are also said to be seeking investment.
    The Blues are seeking money to fund expansion projects including the redevelopment of Cobham and a new stadium, which could cost upwards of £1.5bn.
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    Boehly and co-owner Behdad Eghbali are also looking to add more teams to their portfolio, with Portuguese side Sporting Lisbon identified as a potential feeder club.
    Club sources insist new investment will go towards new projects – not money already spent. More

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    Erik ten Hag matches unwanted Solskjaer record as Man Utd slump to Bayern Munich defeat

    ERIK TEN HAG has matched an unwanted record set by one his predecessors as Manchester United manger – Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. The Red Devils slumped to a 4-3 defeat away to Bayern Munich in the Champions League last night.
    Erik ten Hag has now lost three games in a rowCredit: Getty
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was the last United manager to match this recordCredit: Getty
    Ten Hag’s men very much second best at Allianz Arena – despite Bayern not being on their best form..
    Man Utd’s defeat was compounded by a goalkeeping howler by £47m summer signing Andre Onana in Munich.
    The Red Devils came into the match on the back of an embarrassing 3-1 drubbing at home to Brighton.
    This came just two weeks on from another crippling 3-1 loss to Arsenal.
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    The last time the Red Devils lost three games in a row was four years ago, under Solsjkaer.
    It was April 2019 when United lost three in a row – heavy defeats away to Barcelona and Everton and a humiliating Manchester derby loss at Old Trafford.
    That was near the end of the Norwegian’s first six months in charge – and was only made the permanent boss a few weeks before.
    Ten Hag however has been in the managerial position for well over a year now and finds himself under alot more pressure.
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    United have conceded more than 14 goals in their last five games – one of which they have won.
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    Another unwanted record is that United have conceded three or more goals in three straight games for the first time since Dave Sexton was manager in 1978.
    Last night’s result leaves the team bottom of their Champions League group after matchday one – as Galatasary drew 2-2 with Copenhagen.
    The Dutch boss is determined to bounce back in this weekend’s Premier League clash against Burnley at Turf Moor. More

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    Burnley vs Man Utd: Red Devils aim to end torrid losing run against Premier League strugglers – stream, TV, team news

    PRESSURE is mounting on Erik ten Hag as Manchester United have lost three games on the bounce – but they face Premier League strugglers Burnley next.The Red Devils suffered a 4-3 defeat in their opening 2023/24 Champions League encounter against Bayern Munich.
    Andre Onana’s mistake saw Manchester United go a goal down in MunichCredit: Getty
    And fans are beginning to question the signing of goalkeeper Andre Onana who has now conceded three or more in his last three outings.
    However, United have a huge opportunity to turn their fortunes around as they take on a Burnley side that currently sits 19th in the table.
    But former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany will be desperate for his team to add to United’s woes.
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    When is Burnley vs Man Utd?

    Manchester United travel to Burnley on Saturday, September 23.
    It is scheduled to get underway at 8pm BST.
    Turf Moor in Burnley is the allocated arena for this encounter and it can host approximately 21,944 fans.
    The Red Devils cruised to a 2-0 League Cup 4th-round win when the sides last met in December 2022.

    What TV channel is it on and can it be live streamed?

    Burnley vs Manchester United will be broadcast LIVE on TNT Sports 1
    Coverage is expected to commence from 7pm BST – a whole hour before kick-off.
    Fans can also stream the entire match live on BT.com
    Alternatively, follow SunSport’s blog for minute-by-minute coverage including pre-match and post-match reaction.

    What is the team news?
    Vincent Kompany will have to make do without South African striker Lyle Foster who will begin a three-match ban after receiving a straight red card against Nottingham Forest.
    Michael Obafemi (hamstring), Hjalmar Edkal (knee) and Darko Churlinov (blood poisoning) will all miss out for Burnley, while Vitinho’s knee concern is set to be further assessed.
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    Elsewhere, Raphael Varane and Mason Mount could return to the fold after being spotted training with the team earlier this week.
    Raphael Varane and Mason Mount have returned to trainingCredit: Getty
    However, Sofyan Amrabat and Kobbie Mainoo are expected to be out for a little longer as they are only taking part in individual sessions.
    Long-term absentees Luke Shaw (thigh), Aaron Wan-Bisaka (thigh), Tyrell Malacia (knee) and Amad Diallo (knee) remain sidelined.
    And there is still no return date for Jadon Sancho or Antony.
    What is the odds?

    Burnley to win
    Draw
    Man Utd to win

    *Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes are correct at time of publication More

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    Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya opens up on Ramsdale axe as he calls on rival to ‘fight for the team’

    DAVID RAYA has called on Aaron Ramsdale to continue to “fight for the team” despite losing his starting berth.The Spaniard arrived at Arsenal on an initial loan deal from Brentford last month.
    David Raya was in action for Arsenal last nightCredit: Getty
    Aaron Ramsdale had to make do with a place on the benchCredit: Reuters
    After sitting on the bench for three matches, Raya was handed a start by boss Mikel Arteta for Sunday’s 1-0 win at Everton.
    He then kept his position for last night’s 4-0 Champions League victory over PSV Eindhoven.
    Quizzed about the situation after the game, Raya said: “It’s his (Arteta’s) choice, it’s not my choice.
    “When Aaron comes back in he needs to fight for the team and to win games.”
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    Asked if he gets why the Gunners’ goalkeeper situation has become such a story, he added: “I understand.
    “I think it’s the first time that two top goalies are in the same team.
    “So that’s just part of the football now. The gaffer wants two top players for every position and that’s what I have to work with.
    “Now I’ve played the last two games and I don’t know what’s going to happen on Sunday.”
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    Following his side’s convincing win, Arteta refused to compare his goalkeepers.
    The Spaniard, 41, said: “It’s not something I want to get into.
    “I don’t speak about how different Eddie (Nketiah) is to (Gabriel) Martinelli or to Reiss (Nelson).
    “Every player has a different personality and different characteristics.”
    Arsenal are back in action on Sunday when they host Tottenham at the Emirates, with Raya favourite to keep the No1 position.
    Raya has called on Ramsdale to continue to ‘fight for the team’Credit: Alamy More

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    Man Utd fans hail summer signing for ‘giving us what we’ve been missing for years’… but it’s not Rasmus Hojlund

    MANCHESTER UNITED fans have hailed their summer signing Sergio Reguilon for “giving” the team “what they have been missing for years.”Loan signing Reguilon may have been one of the only positives to come out of the Red Devils’ 4-3 defeat to Bayern Munich.
    Sergio Reguilon has been praised by fans for his performance last nightCredit: Getty
    The Spanish defender has made two starts so far since moving to Old Trafford on loan from Tottenham earlier this month – both ending in losses.
    But the 26-year-old can still hold his head up high as fans praised him for showing “passion and the will.”
    A tweet from a Manchester United fan account said: “A lot been said about Onana but we all agree that Sergio Reguilon has given us what we have been missing for years. Passion and the will. My left back❤️.”
    While another fan posted: “I have to say I was a massive advocate for the signing of Reguilon.
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    “I’ve scouted and suggested him as an option to #MUFC for a while. But, even so, he’s massively impressed me. He’s looked bright going forwards.
    “And, actually looks like he’s trying off the ball. Which is more that can be said for others.
    “There is still more that he needs to show. But in a lackluster, leaky defense he is standing above the rest right now.”
    Reguilon was introduced on a loan from Tottenham to Ten Hag’s squad following the injuries of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.
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    In United’s Champions League opener he put in a hard-working shift and got forward as often as he could.
    Also Reguilon was the first player to pick up and re-focus teammate Andre Onana who made two bluffs in the first half giving Bayern a two goal lead.
    Fans responded positively to the tweets with some asking Man Utd to sign Reguilon permanently.
    One fan said: “We need to sign this guy permanently.”
    Another added: “He was the best player for United.”
    A third put: “Reguilon gives everything on the pitch. If other players match his desire and work rate, it’ll make a massive difference.”
    The Spaniard will now assist the Red Devils to redeem themselves in this weekend’s Premier League clash against Burnley at Turf Moor.
    Reguilon’s was the first player to go over and get Andre Onana refocusedCredit: PA More

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    Forgotten Premier League midfielder arrested in connection with assault of former partner

    FORMER Premier League footballer Ognjen Koroman has been arrested on suspicion of assaulting his ex-partner, according to reports.The Serbian played in the English top flight in 2006.
    Ognjen Koroman played six times for Portsmouth in 2006Credit: Getty
    He played six times for Portsmouth before moving to Red Star Belgrade.
    According to Sportal, Koroman was detained by police this morning.
    The 45-year-old is alleged to have physically and verbally assaulted former partner Ana Micic.
    He is accused of hitting Ana in the ribs.
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    Koroman is claimed to have been breathalyzed by police this morning.
    The former right midfielder played 36 times for his country.
    Prior to joining Portsmouth on two loan spells he represented Radnicki Kragujevac, Spartak Subotica, OFK Beograd, Dynamo Moscow, Krylia Sovetov Samara and Terek Grozny.
    Following his stint in England he returned to Serbia to play for Red Star Belgrade between 2007 and 2009.
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    He then moved to Asia to play for Incheon United in the K-League, before returning for another spell at Red Star.
    Koroman finished his career by going back to Krylia Sovetov Samara in Russia, retiring in 2013.
    Since hanging up his boots he has moved into coaching.
    He took charge of Serbian club Zarkovo in 2019, before moving on to Smederevo 1924.
    Koroman most recently managed Bosnian outfit Tekstilac Derventa last year. More