More stories

  • in

    Thibaut Courtois’ stunning Wag Mishel Gerzig strips to bikini with hen party ‘sailors’ before wedding to Real Madrid ace

    REAL MADRID star Thibaut Courtois’ fiancee Mishel Gerzig has sailed off for her hen do.Courtois and Mishel got engaged a year ago but have yet to announce their wedding date.
    Real Madrid star Thibaut Courtois’ fiancee Mishel Gerzig sailed off for her hen doCredit: Instagram @mishelgerzig
    Mishel posed with a white bikini during her bachelorette partyCredit: Instagram @tattooboutiquelarissa
    Michel and Courtois’ wedding date is not yet known after last year’s engagementCredit: Instagram @tattooboutiquelarissa
    Mishel also dressed up with a sailor’s hat along with her hen do crewCredit: Instagram @tattooboutiquelarissa
    The model, though, shared pictures of her bachelorette party as she was joined by friends for a sunny boat trip.
    The 26-year-old donned a white bikini and a sailor’s hat, just like her friends did.
    They all posed in front of the camera and issued a navy salute as they cruised to the open sea.
    Courtois also jetted off for a “bachelor weekend” dressed up as Super Mario character Luigi.
    Read More on Football
    On the stories he shared on Instagram, the goalkeeper was seen enjoying some karting at the Carlos Sainz karting centre in Madrid.
    And while wearing a red race suit, the Belgium international was seen on the top step of the podium, lifting a trophy before spraying his friends with champagne.
    The former Chelsea star, who left Stamford Bridge in 2018, also issued a group photo showing him and his friends enjoying a night out in Budapest.
    Since joining Real, Courtois has gone on to add two LaLiga titles, a Copa del Rey Cup and a Champions League medal to his cabinet.
    Most read in Football
    Mishel shared a raft of pics on social media from her hen doCredit: Instagram @tattooboutiquelarissa
    This comes after Courtois jetted off for his own bachelor partyCredit: Instagram @thibautcourtois
    Courtois partied in Madrid and Budapest along with his stag do crewCredit: Instagram @merola._.stefano
    That included two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and a League Cup from his time with the Blues.
    However, this season Los Blancos’ campaign was far from stellar in Spain and Europe.
    The 31-year-old made 49 appearances, but could not help Carlo Ancelotti’s side avoid a semi-final exit from the Champions League before limping to second in LaLiga.
    The couple were pictured together in Monaco earlier this summerCredit: Getty
    The paid look set to wed soonCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Fuming Arsenal fans say ‘sell this guy asap’ after Zinchenko’s message to Man City after Treble win

    ARSENAL fans were left fuming after Oleksandr Zinchenko congratulated Manchester City for winning the Champions League.City were crowned treble winners on Saturday after beating Inter Milan 1-0 at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium and won the one trophy that had been eluding them.
    Some Arsenal fans are furious with Oleksandr Zinchenko’s Instagram postCredit: Getty
    Zinchenko congratulated Manchester City for winning the Champions LeagueCredit: INSTAGRAM @zinchenko_96
    Zinchenko spent six years with the Citizens, two of which saw him going out on loan to PSV Eindhoven, and praised his former teammates for their historic success.
    The versatile full-back took to Instagram where he shared City’s post about winning the Champions League accompanied by three clapping emojis.
    That enraged a section of the Gunners’ fans following a close Premier League title chase that saw Mikel Arteta’s men being overtaken by Pep Guardiola’s world beaters.
    One Arsenal fan tweeted: “Nah sell this guy asap…”
    Read More on Arsenal
    Another commented: “This is pure nonsense from Zinchenko!”
    A third posted: “Zinchenko is pathetic.”

    This supporter said: “City are Arsenals [sic] rivals not Tottenham. Don’t like what I see.”
    And that one wrote: “This is messed up.”
    Most read in Football
    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST ONLINE CASINOS FOR 2023
    But there were also many Arsenal fans who defended Zinchenko’s post.
    Some of the North Londoners’ faithful claimed there was nothing wrong with the Ukraine international congratulating his former team, especially considering their club wasn’t in the Champions League.
    One fan posted: “I don’t see nothing wrong with what Zinchenko posted.”
    Another tweeted: “That’s sportsmanship, we go again next season and hopefully, with all our tools complete, then we watch others congratulate us.”
    A third commented: “Cos Zinchenko plays for Arsenal he can’t congratulate his former teammates?”
    This supporter wrote: “He’s only congratulating his former teammates, many of whom he played with for four years, on their UCL victory. Surely it’s not that deep.”
    And that one said: “Bro he’s just congratulating his old team on finally winning the CL, he’s was there for 4 years?” More

  • in

    Watch Kate Abdo’s ‘hall-of-fame burn’ on Micah Richards during final that leaves Henry and Carragher in hysterics

    MICAH RICHARDS suffered yet another brutal burn by CBS presenter Kate Abdo during coverage of the Champions League final.Abdo covered Manchester City’s European title triumph over Inter Milan along with her regular trio of pundits consisting of Thierry Henry, Jamie Carragher and Richards.
    CBS presenter Kate Abdo delivered another sick burn to Micah RichardsCredit: Twitter @CBSSportsGolazo
    The famous journalist is well-known for her savage takedowns on the former City star every time they meet on the panel.
    And this time, the Mancunian broadcaster went all out during a ferocious intro.
    Abdo said: “A very warm welcome along everybody to the UEFA Champions League Final.
    “I am Kate Abdo on the biggest day of the 2023 football calendar year. It is nothing but good vibes here at CBS, big games…”
    Read More on Football
    And Richards responded: “Big names.”
    Abdo continued: “That’s right, tonight as well I am joined by a trio of stars.
    “A France World Cup winner with a statue honouring him in north London, Monsieur Thierry Henry.
    “One of Liverpool’s most famous sons, his biggest nights of course with his beloved Reds here in Istanbul, Jamie Carragher.
    Most read in Champions League
    “And a man who helped launch a football dynasty and is an icon in Manchester now and around the world, the one and only… Peter Schmeichel will join us.
    “Micah Richards is here too…”
    Richards, though, proved to be a good sport once more as he burst into hysterics.
    The former England international took it all in good jest, while Henry and Carragher continued to chuckle.
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    Richards said: “You did me wrong Kate, you did me wrong.”
    Fans watching from home got to enjoy even more banter between the pair as Abdo hilariously called out a rumour about the former defender flying his barber over to Istanbul.
    And the City hero confirmed the reports were true because he is “Big Meeks” and “unique”.
    But Richards proved to be a good sport as he took Abdo’s takedown in good jestCredit: Twitter @CBSSportsGolazo More

  • in

    Brighton winning transfer race for hugely rated £16m Dutch goalkeeper after Burnley had bid rejected

    BRIGHTON are winning the race for £16million Dutch keeper Bart Verbruggen.The Seagulls hope to beat Burnley to the No 1 who is one of the best prospects in Europe.
    Anderlecht goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen has attracted in interest from several clubsCredit: Rex
    But Brighton are winning the race for the 20-year-old’s signatureCredit: GETTY
    Burnley boss Vincent Kompany saw a £13m bid rejected by his old club Anderlecht for 20-year-old Verbruggen.
    Brighton plans to offer more and then talk the player into joining them where his ability with the ball at his feet would be a major asset.
    Verbruggen has turned down past advances from Liverpool and Manchester United because he wants to play first-team football.
    Jason Steele replaced Robert Sanchez in goal for Brighton’s run-in as they reached Europe for the first time, finishing sixth in the Prem to reach the Europa League.
    READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
    Sanchez was dropped in early March and then asked to train away from the first-team squad.
    Despite his numerous impressive displays, Verbruggen has yet to be called up for Netherlands duty.
    But Anderlecht’s goalkeeping coach believes it’s only a matter of time before he wins his first Oranje cap.
    Frank Boeckx told Sporza: “If he performs well there and continues to show himself at Anderlecht, then the Oranje is a logical next step.
    Most read in Football
    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST ONLINE CASINOS FOR 2023
    “Bart has an incredible work ethic; wanting to get better.
    “His meticulous match preparation and his will to understand the opponent. For someone his age, that’s special.
    “Bart is already very mature at the age of 20.
    “How he succeeded [Hendrick] Van Crombrugge – captain and a big name – without blinking, shows his mental strength.
    “His footballing qualities are also exceptional.
    “The way he sees and executes passes, both short and long. His athleticism is also very good.
    “He has all the qualities of a modern goalkeeper.” More

  • in

    Marcus Rashford splits from childhood sweetheart fiancée & returns with girl to hotel at 5am after partying

    ENGLAND football ace Marcus Rashford has split from his childhood sweetheart fiancée.The Manchester United striker, 25, got engaged to Lucia Loi in May last year.
    Marcus Rashford has split from his childhood sweetheart fiancée Lucia LoiCredit: Getty
    Rashford and a girl were pictured returning to his hotel at 5am in Miami
    An onlooker said: ‘Pretty girls were flocking to Marcus at the hotel. He seemed to be having a great time’
    The Man Utd ace returned to the hotel alone with one of the girls — flanked by a minder
    A source insisted: “It’s nothing complicated. The relationship ran its course and they remain very close friends.”
    The star has been taking a break in Miami and partied with girls on a night out — returning with one woman to his hotel at 5am.
    The striker had earlier being seen chatting to bikini-clad women by the hotel pool.
    According to British holiday-makers, he had use of an exclusive cabana with five-star service.
    Read More on Marcus Rashford
    They said he chatted to girls as bottles of champagne and food were delivered for them.
    He was enjoying a break in Miami as sources confirmed that he had broken up with his fiancée.
    They said the England and ­Manchester United ace split from childhood sweetheart Lucia Loi around two months ago.
    Rashford flew to Florida the day after United’s 2-1 FA Cup Final defeat to Man City last Saturday.
    Most read in Football
    He booked a suite at a hotel as he holidayed with team-mate Tyrell Malacia and pals.
    One onlooker said: “Pretty girls were flocking to Marcus at the hotel.”On Thursday, he partied at exclusive nearby nightclub Mr Jones.
    Later, at about 5am, he returned to the hotel alone with one of the girls — flanked by a minder.
    Marcus and Lucia announced their engagement last year and were pictured on holiday together three months ago.
    Marcus and Lucia announced their engagement last year and were pictured on holiday together in late MarchCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    Rashford scored 30 goals in all competitions for United this season and won the Carabao CupCredit: Rex
    Some fans had credited Rashford’s return to form last season to his settled love life off the pitch.
    Marcus scored 30 goals in all competitions for United last season and won the Carabao Cup.
    The pair fell for each other at Ashton on Mersey School, in Sale, Gtr Manchester, when they were 15.
    After nine years together, they split in May 2021, blaming the pandemic and lockdown pressures.
    They reunited in January last year and four months later Rashford popped the question at a Hollywood villa after a romantic meal at seafood restaurant Catch LA.
    He confirmed their engagement on Instagram, posting an image of the pair embracing as they stood on a bed of white roses in front of a heart-shaped archway.
    Lucia — a close pal of England star Jack Grealish’s girlfriend Sasha Attwood — has travelled abroad to watch Marcus play in big games and to cheer him on.
    She was at the World Cups in Russia in 2018 and Qatar last year, where she was seen wearing a top with Rashford’s name on the back.
    Lucia, who worked as an account executive for Manchester firm Sugar PR, graduated from university in advertising and brand management with first-class honours.
    During his Miami trip, Rashford spent time coaching youngsters at the IMG Academy football camp — posting snaps on his Instagram.
    Read more on The Sun
    He is expected to join England’s squad this week for the Euro 2024 qualifying games in Malta on Friday and against North Macedonia at Old Trafford the Monday after.
    A source added: “Marcus is laser-focused on the next phase of his football career and is putting all of his focus into that.”
    Rashford is expected to meet up with the England squad on Sunday ahead of the 2024 Euros qualifying gamesCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Aston Villa sign long-term Arsenal target Youri Tielemans and ‘on verge’ of adding former Gunner to new-look midfield

    ASTON VILLA have confirmed the signing of long-term Arsenal target Youri Tielemans and could reportedly be about to sign an ex-Gunner too.The midfielder was available on a free transfer this summer after running down his contract at relegated Leicester.
    Youri Tielemans has signed for Aston VillaCredit: Getty
    Arsenal were interested in signing the midfielder over the last few months.
    But he has now signed for Villa, the club has confirmed.
    And Tielemans, 26, is set to be joined at Villa Park by former Arsenal star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who will arrive on a free from Liverpool according to talkSPORT.
    The Gunners were believed to have held talks with Tielemans a few weeks ago about a potential move.
    READ MORE ON TRANSFERS
    And the Belgium international’s signature is a coup for Villa, with Liverpool and Newcastle also linked.
    Tielemans could be the first of several departures from Leicester following their relegation.
    James Maddison could be the most expensive exit amid interest from Manchester United, Tottenham and Newcastle.
    Arsenal have also been tipped to make a bid for the England international, who could cost at least £40million.
    Most read in Football
    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST ONLINE CASINOS FOR 2023
    Harvey Barnes could make a move with Toon once again a potential suitor.
    Newcastle sporting director Dan Ashworth is known to be a big admirer of the winger. More

  • in

    England set for tug-of-war over Everton striker Tom Cannon with plot to tempt him into switching nationality

    ENGLAND are trying to tempt Everton striker Tom Cannon into picking them over Republic of Ireland.Cannon, 20, is tipped to be half of a devastating Irish double act alongside Brighton’s Evan Ferguson for the next decade.
    Ireland and England look set to fight it out for Everton man Tom CannonCredit: Getty
    It is understood he will have a big decision to make regarding his international futureCredit: Sportsfile
    But FA chiefs contacted the Liverpool-born ace offering him a chance to play for Three Lions U21s next season.
    Cannon, whose family are Irish, has already played for the Republic at that level and was tipped to be in Stephen Kenny’s squad for their upcoming Euro qualifiers against Greece and Gibraltar.
    But the forward — who joined Preston on loan in January — was forced out of a training camp with a virus, keeping the door open for England.
    Jack Grealish and Declan Rice both opted to go with the Three Lions ahead of Ireland but Cannon will want time to make his choice as he cannot swap allegiances twice.
    READ MORE ON ENGLAND
    Former Ireland boss Martin O’Neill defended Grealish and Rice after their switch to England.
    Man City star Grealish played for Ireland’s U21 but refused a call-up from O’Neill to join the senior squad in 2015 as a 20-year-old.
    Rice decided to swap Ireland for England after playing three friendlies for the Boys in Green.
    Speaking during the Qatar World Cup, O’Neill said: “You can’t coerce players into becoming international players.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    “I played Declan Rice three times in three friendly games.
    “He was only a young kid, he played in three friendly games at senior level. He was terrific in the games.”
    He then went on to add: “It’s as simple as this – Declan Rice wanted to play for England.
    “Do you think that Declan Rice now at this minute going to play in the quarter-finals of the World Cup, do you think that he’s regretting making the decision that he wanted to play [for England]?”
    Jack Grealish switched from Ireland to EnglandCredit: Corbis
    Declan Rice also switched his national allegianceCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Fans are only just realising Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink’s real name with Chelsea legend having it changed in Portugal

    FOOTBALL fans have been left stunned after realising Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink’s real name.Chelsea’s legendary striker spent four seasons at Stamford Bridge between 2000 and 2004.
    Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink enjoyed four impressive years at ChelseaCredit: Getty
    He scored 87 goals during his time at Stamford BridgeCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
    He contributed 87 goals in 177 appearances, losing the 2002 FA Cup final to Arsenal.
    Despite his lack of silverware in West London, he remains a much-loved figure at the club.
    Yet supporters have been left gobsmacked after discovering his real first name is not Jimmy but “Jerrel”.
    This goes back to 1995 when Hasselbaink signed for Portuguese side Campomaiorense.
    READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
    The club were keen to keep his identity a secret so they referred to him as Jimmy and the name has stuck ever since.
    Ad it’s a fact many fans still do not know about the former Dutch forward to this day.
    Reacting on social media, one person replied: “Really???”
    While another simply responded: “Mind blown.”
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    And a third added: “Absolutely brilliant.”
    Hasselbaink, who now works as a pundit for Sky Sports, left Chelsea to join Middlesbrough in 2004 where he registered 33 goals in 89 games.
    He then spent one final season in the Premier League with Charlton after agreeing a deal to move to The Valley in 2006.
    Hasselbaink’s last campaign before hanging up his boots then came in the Championship with Cardiff.
    He scored nine times in 44 games for the second-tier side, before leaving in 2008.
    The forward also contributed nine goals in 23 games for the Netherlands.
    Since his playing days came to an end, he has coached Royal Antwerp, Burton Albion, QPR and Northampton.
    His second stint with Burton ended in September with the club rooted to the bottom of League One.
    They subsequently survived the drop, finishing 15th under Noureddine Maamria. More