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      Cristiano Ronaldo SNUBBED from Saudi Pro League Team of the Season.. as ex-Man Utd flop pinches his place

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO has been pipped to a spot in the Saudi Pro League team of the season by Odion Iglaho.The Portuguese star joined Al-Nassr in December after being axed from Manchester United.
      Cristiano Ronaldo was left out of the Saudi Pro League team of the seasonCredit: Getty
      But former Manchester United striker Odion Ighalo made the cutCredit: Getty
      The Saudi Pro League team of the season
      However, the move did not pan out well, as the Saudi side dropped out of first place and missed out on the title to Karim Benzema’s new club Al-Ittihad – who have also been linked with a move for Chelsea star N’Golo Kante.
      Ronaldo, 38, himself did impress as he netted 14 goals in 16 appearances for Al-Nassr.
      But it was not enough to earn him a spot in the Team of the Season.
      The striker position was instead given to Ighalo, who had previously flopped during a loan spell at Manchester United.
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      The Nigerian fired 19 goals and provided two assists in 27 matches for third-placed Al-Hilal.
      During his time at Old Trafford, Ighalo failed to score in 12 Premier League appearances, although he did bag five goals in the Europa League and FA Cup.
      The other forward positions were handed to Moroccan winger Mourad Batna and Saudi star Feras Al Brikan.
      Ronaldo’s team-mates Luiz Gustavo and Ghislain Konan did earn spots in the midfield and defence respectively.
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      There was even a space for West Brom cult hero Ahmed Hegazi as he impressed in the heart of the Al-Ittihad defence.
      The team was based on players’ Opta stats and laid out in a 4-3-3 formation.
      And competition for a spot in the team of the season next campaign will be harder with many European stars making the move to Saudi, such as Benzema.
      Despite being a regular goalscorer in his half a season, Ronaldo’s time in Saudi has been overshadowed by his antics during matches.
      Former West Brom star Ahmed Hegazi (R) earned a spot in the teamCredit: AFP
      The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, has repeatedly shown his displeasure after defeats.
      It had been suggested that Ronaldo was keen on a return to Europe, but he has insisted that he is happy at Al-Nassr.
      He said: “I am happy here, I want to continue here, I will continue here,’ he announced.
      “And in my opinion, if they continue to do the work that they want to do here, for the next five years, I think the Saudi league can be a top five league in the world.
      Read more on The Sun
      “I will be part of your world, your culture, I will be here, I hope I make the people enjoy through my games, my performance, and to win things.
      “But again, thank you for welcoming me, and I will try to give my best during the time that I will be here.” More

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      Ex-England Under-21s star who won whopping 26 caps for Young Lions ‘close to shock international allegiance switch’

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      DEMARAI GRAY is edging closer to making his debut for Jamaica according to the president of the Jamaican Football Federation.The Everton winger, who turns 28 at the end of the month, has been scouted for a number of months by the JFF.
      Demarai Gray scored eight goals for the England U21sCredit: Getty
      Despite twice being called up to the England senior squad Gray never made his debutCredit: Reuters
      Head coach Heimir Halgrimsson is looking to put together a squad capable of winning the Concacaf Gold Cup this summer, and qualifying for the World Cup in 2026.
      Gray turned out for England at youth level, earning 26 caps for the England Under-21s and scoring eight goals.
      However, he never made his England debut even though he was called up to the senior squad twice.
      Ricketts claimed the documentation process for Gray was going smoothly and is close to completion.
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      He said: “We’ve had discussions with Gray, I spoke with the manager some days ago and he assured me that the paperwork is okay and that he will be available.
      “In fact, he assured me that he will have Demarai’s passport in his hand very soon so we are hoping he’ll definitely be a part of the set-up.”
      The winger has been named in Jamaica’s provisional 50-strong squad ahead of this summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup and will be hoping to make the final 23-man list.
      Gray isn’t the only Premier League player in the squad and he is joined by West Ham’s Michail Antonio, Chelsea’s Omari Hutchinson, Aston Villa’s Leon Bailey and Fulham’s Bobby De Cordova-Reid.
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      The tournament begins on June 24, but before then Jamaica travel to Austria to play Qatar and Jordan in warm up games.
      Gray made 33 appearances and scored four goals as Sean Dyche’s Everton side stayed in the Premier League thanks to a 1-0 win against Bournemouth on the final day.
      The winger started his career at Birmingham, before joining Leicester – where he won the Premier League title.
      He had a spell at Bayer Leverkusen in Germany before returning to the Premier League with Everton. More

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      Man Utd takeover LIVE: PSG chief holds talks Glazers over sale, Chelsea fans ‘keen’ on Mount exit, Harry Kane updates

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      PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has reportedly played a significant role in the talks for Qatari royal Sheikh Jassim to buy Manchester United.The takeover of Man Utd is now down to a two-horse race including Sheikh Jassim and British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe.
      Meanwhile, Chelsea fans are keen to cash in on Manchester United target Mason Mount after identifying youngster Cesare Casadei as the “next Frank Lampard.”
      And United have received a transfer boost after Real Madrid lined up an alternative to Harry Kane.
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      Stay up to date with all the latest from Old Trafford…
      Price set for Frimpong
      Bayer Leverkusen have set a price for Man Utd target Jeremie Frimpong, according to Sky Sports.
      Attacking right back scored nine goals and notched 11 assists in the Bundesliga.
      Ten Hag is said to be a big fan, but will face competition from Bayern Munich and Barcelona.
      Al-Khelaïfi declartes love for PSG
      Nasser Al-Khelaïfi has revealed he will not be involved in anything to do with Man Utd in the event of a Qatar takeover.
      “Paris St-Germain is my club, in my heart. I have nothing to do with Manchester United”, told BBC
      “I am talking about anyone, not just Manchester United. I will give them the experience that I have. That’s it”.
      They stand Red-y
      Manchester United have been handed a major transfer boost as two top targets are interested in joining the club.
      United boss Erik ten Hag is keen on mounting a Premier League title charge next season but knows he needs a stronger squad to compete with rivals Manchester City.
      Atalanta star Rasmus Hojlund is keen on joining the Red Devils in the summer, according to the Mirror.
      The same source adds that Monaco ace Axel Disasi is also keen on switching to Old Trafford.
      Well I Nev-er
      Manchester United legend Phil Neville has joined Canada’s national team as part of John Herdman’s coaching staff after he was sacked by Inter Miami.
      Neville was relieved of his duties by fellow United great and club owner David Beckham with Inter sitting bottom of MLS’ Eastern Conference.
      The former England women’s manager has jumped straight back into work, accepting an offer to work with Herdman.
      The 46-year-old joins Canada’s backroom team alongside former Millwall ace Richard Shaw.
      Credit: Getty
      David’s De-cision time
      Manchester United star David de Gea is contemplating his future, while on holiday.
      De Gea will officially become a free agent at the end of the month despite the club’s best efforts to tie him down to a new deal.
      A new four-year contract, which included a massive pay cut, is understood to have been on the cards for the goalkeeper, who is using his summer holiday to weigh up his next move.
      The 32-year-old shared a video of himself wading through crystal-clue water to his Twitter and Instagram with the following caption: “Relax. Recharge. Contemplate.”
      Haard pass for Man Utd
      Manchester United legend Dwight Yorke wouldn’t have Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland in the 1999 Treble-winning team.
      Yorke said: “People try to compare the teams. We were more physical, we had better players. You can’t tell me they have better than Paul Scholes and Roy Keane. Maybe Kevin De Bruyne would get into our midfield.
      “But no defender on the planet would want to face Ryan Giggs at his very best. He was a class act. Look at David Beckham and his delivery of a ball. Yes, Erling Haaland is unique but the way we played and the formation we played in, I wouldn’t swap him for what we had.
      “We had a great combination with myself and Andy Cole. Don’t get me wrong, it is an incredible feat what he has done. Scoring 52 goals in 52 appearances with a game still to go is something else. But I still would take my combination with Andy.
      “Also, I would put my money on Jaap Stam handling Haaland and behind him we had the best goalkeeper in the world at the time in Peter Schmeichel.”
      Federico Chiesa chase
      Manchester United have been handed a transfer boost in their pursuits of Juventus star Federico Chiesa, who has made a huge decision on his future with the club.
      According to Corriere dello Sport, Chiesa is open to the idea of joining a new team in the summer.
      The news comes as a boost to United and Liverpool’s hopes of signing the 25-year-old as they are again linked with a move.
      The winger is said to be “unhappy” at Juve as he does not feel at the “centre of the project”.
      Reports have stated Liverpool lead the race for the Italy international’s signature alongside Newcastle, with Bayern Munich also interested.
      Chiesa is now expected to be available for around £30million, two years after the Merseysiders failed with a £100m offer.
      Credit: Rex
      Back from the Red
      Manchester United fans might be wondering how three of their rejects have managed to stand out with Inter Milan today.
      So where did it all go wrong for Romelu Lukaku, 30, Matteo Darmian, 33, and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, 34, at Old Trafford?
      Still short of a No 9, United could do with Lukaku at his best but his time at the club came to an inauspicious end at a cricket ground in Perth before Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could get him out.
      Mkhitaryan left many fans just as baffled as he failed to convince ex-manager Jose Mourinho right from the start, despite the Special One making him a £30million signing in the summer of 2016.
      Darmian spent four years at United after a £12.9m move from Torino in 2015 and had a great start as he was named the club’s player of the month for August.
      But the full-back moved to Parma for £1.4m in 2019, then joined Inter the following season — initially on loan.
      Not Inter it
      Paul Ince hated it at Inter Milan when he first moved to Italy, the Manchester United legend told SunSport’s Charlie Wyett.
      Ince told SunSport: “The move came as a bit of a shock as I had already been at Manchester United for six years. I was negotiating a contract for another four years. Then the club accepted a £7.5million bid from Inter Milan. It wasn’t the move I wanted.
      “When we landed there were loads of press, fans. This bloke came up and said, ‘Mr Ince, are you married? A lot of players often return home with an Italian woman as they are all so beautiful’.
      “My wife Claire was with me and was upset as soon as we arrived at the airport — so it was not a good start! We could not find a place to stay, either. They showed us a couple of terrible apartments and then I started to have second thoughts about the whole move.
      “Then, they put us in a beautiful hotel on Lake Como and we stayed there two or three months. For the first few weeks it was a struggle. The manager Ottavio Bianchi was playing me on the left wing. We went to Torino for a game, we had not started the season well, and were 2-0 down at half-time.
      “Massimo Moratti, the Inter president, came down at half-time and went bananas. I told my team-mate Massimo Paganin, who spoke good English, ‘Can you tell the president I had six years at Manchester United in central midfield and you are not getting the best out of me’.
      “The president listened, told the manager to put me in midfield and we drew the game 2-2. By Monday, the president had fired the manager and brought in Roy Hodgson, that is when things changed and improved for me.”
      Declan Rice alternative
      Bayern Munich appear to have found an alternative to West Ham superstar Declan Rice.
      Manchester United have been previously linked with Rice, who has also been eyed by Bayern.
      However, there is now hope that the Bundesliga champions are out of the race for the midfielder after they completed the free signing of Konrad Laimer from RB Leipzig.
      Laimer has signed a four-year deal at the Allianz Arena and will aim to help the Bavarians win a 12th consecutive title.
      All gone Ron
      Manchester United legend and Al-Nassr superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has been pipped to a spot in the Saudi Pro League team of the season by Odion Iglaho.
      Ronaldo’s Saudi move did not pan out well, as the team dropped out of first place and missed out on the title to Karim Benzema’s new club Al-Ittihad.
      Ronaldo, 38, himself did impress as he registered 14 goals and two assists in 19 appearances for Al-Nassr.
      But it was not enough to earn the five-time Ballon d’Or winner a spot in the Team of the Season.

      Everton target Man Utd flop
      Everton boss Sean Dyche has made Manchester United flop Wout Weghorst his main summer transfer target, reports SunSport’s Charlie Patrick.
      Dyche signed Weghorst at Burnley, who still owns him, and is now “desperate” to be reunited with him at Goodison Park after his Old Trafford loan stint comes to an end on June 30.
      And Weghorst, who won’t stay with the Red Devils, is said to be keen on a reunion.
      Our source told SunSport: “Wout would like to stay in England, is settled in the North West and has a huge amount of respect for Sean Dyche.
      “He credits him for bringing him to the Premier League and is excited at the prospect of playing a part in the rebuild at Everton.”
      Real go for bargain
      Real Madrid are “set to offer a shockingly low transfer bid” to Tottenham for Harry Kane in the summer transfer window.
      Manchester United have made Kane one of their summer priorities as his future remains uncertain.
      However, it has now emerged that Real are leading the race for the star striker after losing Karim Benzema to Al-Ittihad.
      According to Marca, however, after the arrival of Endrick – and with hopes of a move for Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe being lined-up for 2025 – Los Blancos are reluctant to break the bank for a player who turns 30 next month.
      Therefore, the same source claims the Madrid giants are willing to make a bid of around £68million for the England captain.
      Chelsea fans on Mount
      Chelsea fans are keen to cash in on Manchester United target Mason Mount after identifying youngster Cesare Casadei as the “next Frank Lampard.”
      Mount is edging towards an exit after refusing to sign a new deal, with United leading the race.
      But the Red Devils are reluctant to meet the Blues’ £70million price tag, with talks now at an impasse.
      Both parties now face an anxious wait over the playmaker’s future, but fans feel their club should cash in quickly for a cheaper figure because they already have a ready-made replacement.
      Casadei, 20, joined the West Londoners from Inter Milan last summer and spent the season on loan at Reading.
      The Italian sensation is now shining at the U20s World Cup, becoming the tournament’s top scorer with seven goals so far.
      Al-Khelaifi involved in takeover
      Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has played a significant role in talks surrounding Manchester United’s takeover by a group fronted by Qatari royal Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani.
      The ongoing saga is now down to a two-horse race including Sheikh Jassim and British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
      The Qatari businessman’s team initially consulted Al-Khelaifi for advice on United’s valuation, with the Glazer family demanding £6.4billion for the club.
      Accoridng to The Athletic, however, the PSG boss was recently contacted by the Red Devils’ unpopular owners, who wanted him to talk Sheikh Jassim in to increasing his offer.
      Al-Khelaifi, who is acting as an adviser for Sheikh Jassim, has met the Glazers and Raine Group, the American bank that is conducting the sale, to discuss the takeover.
      However, several English teams now want the Premier League to investigate the source of funds.
      Credit: Rex
      Good morning Man Utd fans
      Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has played a significant role in Sheik Jassim’s takeover of Manchester United, The Athletic have revealed.
      The report reveals Al-Khelaifi was contacted for advice by Sheik Jassim’s bid, before the Glazer family contacted him about increasing the Sheik’s offer.
      Several Premier League clubs now want to investigate the source of the funds.
      The Athletic have also revealed that Erik ten Hag’s tenacity has triggered a new strategy from United in trying to get deals done early.
      United were handed a boost in the chase for Declan Rice after West Ham lined up their replacement in Edson Alvarez, but with his heart set on Arsenal this may be arbitrary.
      Elsewhere, United could now make a move for Federico Chiesa after reports emerged revealing he is unhappy at Juventus.
      The winger is disgruntled at not feeling at the “centre of the project” in Turin and could go for as little as £30million.
      Scott McTominay is a target for Newcastle, according to the Daily Mail, who say the Scot is one of four targets who they are aiming to sign in a £75m budget.
      In terms of the stars United currently have on their cards, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has reported Victor Lindelof will NOT be sold by club.
      It comes following a string of impressive displays towards the end of the season.
      However, Harry Maguire is reportedly reluctant to leave Old Trafford behind.
      Class of 92 member Phil Neville is back in work as part of John Herdman’s staff in the Canadian National Team after being sacked from his Head Coach position at Inter Miami.
      Dwight Yorke does not believe Erling Haaland would make it into the United’s 1999 Treble-winning team.
      In an exclusive interview with SunSport, he said: “People try to compare the teams.
      “We were more physical, we had better players. You can’t tell me they have better than Paul Scholes and Roy Keane. Maybe Kevin De Bruyne would get into our midfield.”
      Good morning Man Utd fans
      Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has played a significant role in Sheik Jassim’s takeover of Manchester United, The Athletic have revealed.
      The report reveals Al-Khelaifi was contacted for advice by Sheik Jassim’s bid, before the Glazer family contacted him about increasing the Sheik’s offer.
      Several Premier League clubs now want to investigate the source of the funds.
      The Athletic have also revealed that Erik ten Hag’s tenacity has triggered a new strategy from United in trying to get deals done early.
      United were handed a boost in the chase for Declan Rice after West Ham lined up their replacement in Edson Alvarez, but with his heart set on Arsenal this may be arbitrary.
      Elsewhere, United could now make a move for Federico Chiesa after reports emerged revealing he is unhappy at Juventus.
      The winger is disgruntled at not feeling at the “centre of the project” in Turin and could go for as little as £30million.
      Scott McTominay is a target for Newcastle, according to the Daily Mail, who say the Scot is one of four targets who they are aiming to sign in a £75m budget.
      In terms of the stars United currently have on their cards, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has reported Victor Lindelof will NOT be sold by club.
      It comes following a string of impressive displays towards the end of the season.
      However, Harry Maguire is reportedly reluctant to leave Old Trafford behind.
      Class of 92 member Phil Neville is back in work as part of John Herdman’s staff in the Canadian National Team after being sacked from his Head Coach position at Inter Miami.
      Dwight Yorke does not believe Erling Haaland would make it into the United’s 1999 Treble-winning team.
      In an exclusive interview with SunSport, he said: “People try to compare the teams.
      “We were more physical, we had better players. You can’t tell me they have better than Paul Scholes and Roy Keane. Maybe Kevin De Bruyne would get into our midfield.”
      EXCLUSIVE: I hated it when I joined Inter from Man Utd
      Paul Ince is a flag-waving, patriotic Englishman who always backs Premier League teams in Europe.
      Yet Saturday’s Champions League final will be difficult. He is completely torn over who to support.
      Because as he watches Manchester City take on Inter Milan, the memories will come flooding back to Ince, who remains one of this country’s most successful exports to Italy.
      He said: “It is a difficult one for me. As an Englishman, I will always want English teams to do well but Inter has a massive place in my heart so I am divided.”
      Ince, 55, followed in the footsteps of stars like Paul Gascoigne, Trevor Francis and David Platt when he headed to Italy in 1995.
      You can read the full exclusive from Charlie Wyett HERE.
      EXCLUSIVE: Man Utd Treble winner says Haaland wouldn’t get into 99′ side
      It may not surprise you what Dwight Yorke thinks when asked to compare Pep Guardiola’s trophy machine to the Red Devils’ 1999 vintage.
      Yorke was top scorer with 29 goals that season, his first at Old Trafford, as they became the only English club to win the title, FA Cup and Champions League in an unforgettable campaign.
      And Yorke would not swap a single player for one of City’s — well, he might try and squeeze Kevin De Bruyne into the midfield.
      Yorke, 51, said: “People try to compare the teams.
      “We were more physical, we had better players. You can’t tell me they have better than Paul Scholes and Roy Keane.
      “Maybe Kevin De Bruyne would get into our midfield.”
      You can read the full Exclusive from Neil Custis HERE.
      Ronaldo OUT of Saudi TOTS
      Cristiano Ronaldo has been LEFT OUT of the Saudi Pro League Team of the Season.
      The 38-year-old has scored 14 goals in 16 league matches, however, his position in the lineup was instead taken by former Man Utd striker Odion Ighalo.
      The Saudi Pro League TOTS
      Man Utd send best wishes to former ace
      Manchester United have wished former striker Javier Hernandez a speedy recovery after he sustained an ACL tear in his right knee.
      The 35-year-old, affectionately nicknamed “the Little Pea”, faces six to nine months on the sideline.
      An LA Galaxy statement said: “Hernández will undergo surgery on a date to be determined to begin the rehabilitation process.”
      Man Utd sent their best wishes on Twiter
      Man Utd fans say goodbye to star
      Manchester United fans took to social media to say goodbye to David de Gea.
      It comes after the Spaniard posted a photo with the caption: “Relax. Recharge. Contemplate.”
      The goalkeeper’s contract is up at the end of the month. United want to keep him on reduced terms, but thus far there has been no agreement.
      But many fans have run out of patience following a string of high-profile errors.
      Responding to his post, one fan said: “Thanks for everything, Dave, but it’s time to say goodbye.”
      A second wrote: “New journeys at a new club ahead.”
      With a third adding: “Hopefully contemplating your future at United ending.”
      David de Gea posted this message
      Man Utd to make early in-roads
      Manchester United are reportedly aiming to get off to a quick start to the summer transfer window, all thanks to Erik ten Hag.
      United a known for being slow out of the blocks, but with the Dutch boss’ reported insistency to get deals done.
      According to The Athletic, his energy is central to the Red Devils’ new strategy.
      Newcastle want United academy graduate
      Newcastle reportedly want to sign Scott McTominay, but only if he is within budget.
      According to the Daily Mail, the Scot is a target alongside the likes of James Maddison, Moises Caicedo and Conor Gallagher.
      However, the report stipulates Newcastle have a budget of just £75million before player sales due to the restrictions of Financial Fair Play.
      Ex-star reveals stunning tattoo
      Ashley Young has revealed a stunning back tattoo.
      The former United star began the work while still at Old Trafford, with the 37-year-old finally finishing the ink work in Cheltenham.
      The artwork appears to show an adult alongside a child looking out at a football stadium.
      Underneath it reads: “Nothing or no one can hold you back when you realise the power you possess is limitless.”
      Alongside the image, he added the caption: “Thanks so much for finally finishing this wicked piece and thank you for having me @mollydoestattoos @paradise_cheltenham 💉🖋️🤘🏾❤️.”
      The stunning tattoo on his backCredit: INSTAGRAM/youngy_18
      Load more entries… More

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      Erling Haaland’s bromance with Jack Grealish takes new twist as City goal machine teases pal over settling into team

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      ERLING HAALAND couldn’t resist taking a playful dig at Manchester CIty pal Jack Grealish after his record-breaking season.Haaland, 22, has adapted to life at City seamlessly – breaking records and winning multiple individual awards having scored 52 goals in all competitions.
      The pair have struck up an unlikely friendship following Haaland’s arrival last summerCredit: Getty
      The duo are one game away from winning the treble with Manchester CityCredit: Getty

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      But, for Grealish it took a little longer to settle following his £100million move from Aston Villa two years ago.
      The pair have struck up an unlikely friendship and live on the same floor in an apartment complex in Manchester.
      The Norwegian was asked if he was surprised that he had settled into life at City so quickly and he couldn’t resist a swipe at Grealish with his answer.
      Haaland said: “I told Jack sometimes players need maybe a year or something to come into the new league, new team and everything.
      READ MORE ON MAN CITY
      “And, sometimes players come directly in and perform, I told him this. So, yeah, there was one game, the Community Shield, I missed a couple of big chances.
      “It can happen, it will happen again. What can you do? Nothing. We have to focus on the next thing, the next game and that’s what I did. I scored two goals in the next game, so it was still not a bad start.”
      Despite all the records he has broken this season Haaland heads into Saturday night’s Champions League final with only one goal in his last seven games.
      Although, he was quick to defend himself, saying: “You can think of it as one goal in seven games or 52 goals in 52 games and eight assists, I think.
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      “You can think of it in both ways. I’m not stressed. I feel really good. I didn’t expect to score this many goals but, again, I could have scored more.
      “I’ve been missing a lot of chances, so I could have scored more, that’s the truth.”
      Haaland and Grealish are one game away from completing an historic Treble with City, and matching the achievement of rivals Manchester United back in 1999.
      The pair will likely both play a key role as City look to win the Champions League for the first time in their history against Inter Milan in Istanbul. More

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      Fans fear someone’s ‘getting sacked’ as shocking video of Erling Haaland getting taken out in Man City training emerges

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      FANS fear the axe is going to swing at Manchester City after Erling Haaland was taken out in training – by a pile of water bottles. On the eve of the Champions League final, Pep Guardiola will be keen to ensure his squad is firing on all cylinders.
      Erling Haaland went for a nasty fall over some water bottles
      Fans joked someone, or something, will be getting sacked
      But Haaland appeared to be completely fine

      CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL – MAN CITY VS INTER MILAN: All you need to know including kick-off time and TV details
      And Haaland injuring himself would be far from ideal.
      Fans were shocked to see the 52-goal ace topple over a set of water bottles in training ahead of the final.
      Fortunately, he seemed to laugh it off following his fall, suggesting there was nothing to worry about.
      Reacting to the clip, one fan joked: “Bros getting tackled by bottles 😂.”
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      A second said: “Imagine if that put him out for the final 🤣🤣.”
      “They’re getting sacked. Imagine if he got injured,” remarked a third, raising doubts about the bottles’ future.
      A fourth typed: “Defo a pen if it goes to VAR🙃.”
      While another added: “Imagine if he’d done his ankle on this.”
      Most read in Football
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      Haaland has scored seven goals in the Champions League knockout stages this season, though five of those came in a single game against RB Leipzig.
      Despite his record-breaking exploits, Dwight Yorke does not believe he would make Manchester United’s 1999 Treble-winning team.
      City are on the brink of winning a historic Treble, but SunSport’s Martin Lipton has told how the achievement could be seen as tainted by rivals. More

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      Chelsea open transfer talks with TWO stars as Mauricio Pochettino wastes no time getting crucial positions filled

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      MAURICO POCHETTINO isn’t wasting any time getting down to business at Chelsea – opening talks with TWO potential summer signings.The Argentine was officially confirmed as Graham Potter’s permanent successor last month and has already drawn up a list of players he wants to bring to Stamford Bridge.
      Mauricio Pochettino was appointed Chelsea manager last monthCredit: REUTERS
      The Argentine has reportedly opened talks with AC Milan goalkeeper Mike MaignanCredit: Rex
      Poch is also said to have enquired about the availability of Southampton’s Romeo LaviaCredit: GETTY
      And according to reports, the former Spurs boss is already in the process of trying to entice two players to West London.
      L’Equipe claim the Blues have reached out to Italian giants AC Milan about the availability of goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
      Pochettino is said to be unsatisfied with current Chelsea keepers Edouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga and has identified Maignan as a potential new No1.
      Milan, however, are said to have no intention of parting company with the France international.
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      And it’s claimed the Rossoneiri will only consider selling the 27-year-old if they receive a mammoth offer for his services.
      Pochettino is also said to have reached out to his former club Southampton about signing midfielder Romeo Lavia.
      That’s according to Football London, who claim the 51-year-old has identified the Belgium international as a replacement for N’Golo Kante.
      It’s claimed the Blues “extensively” kept tabs on the 19-year-old last season and were impressed by his maiden season at St Mary’s.
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      Chelsea will likely look to secure Lavia’s services for a cut-price fee following Saints’ relegation to the Premier League last month.
      Southampton, however, are said to want a whopping £50million for the teenager.
      Pochettino will likely be given a huge war chest this summer to overhaul his squad and improve on their woeful 12th-placed finish this season.
      Blues co-owner Todd Boehly has spared no expense since taking the club off Roman Abramovich’s hands last year.
      And the American is confident Pochettino is the man to turn this club’s fortunes around.
      In a joint statement with fellow owners Behdad Eghbali, Jose E. Feliciano, Mark Walter and Hansjorg Wyss, he said: “The sporting team conducted a diligent and thoughtful process that the Board is proud of.
      Todd Boehly is likely to give Mauricio Pochettino a huge summer war chestCredit: PA
      “We are delighted that Mauricio will be joining Chelsea.
      “Mauricio is a world-class coach with an outstanding track record.
      “We are all looking forward to having him on board.” More

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      Major Mason Greenwood update as it’s revealed Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag wants him back in the squad

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      MANCHESTER United boss Erik ten Hag is willing to bring Mason Greenwood back into his squad.He has made it clear he is happy for the suspended striker, 21, to play again after charges of attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour were dropped earlier this year.
      Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is willing to bring Mason Greenwood back into his squad, pictured above in action for United in 2021Credit: PA
      The suspended striker, 21, had charges of attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour dropped this year, pictured Mason out with his girlfriendCredit: Raw Image Ltd
      However a final decision is expected to be made by United’s owners, the Glazer family, within the next week after the conclusion of a club probe.
      A reinstatement would trigger a wave of controversy, with United’s women players calling for Greenwood to go earlier this year.
      The Sun understands most of his team-mates at Old Trafford would welcome him back into the dressing room if the club agrees.
      But Old Trafford executives who deal with sponsors and commercial deals remain concerned about the effect on the club if he plays for them again.
      READ MORE ON Mason Greenwood
      United bosses began an investigation into the circumstances which led to his arrest in January 2022 after a woman made a series of allegations against him.
      Greenwood, who is expecting a child with his partner, has spent 18 weeks waiting for a decision after key witnesses withdrew their evidence, leading to charges being dropped in February.
      A source said: “Mason was delighted to hear that the manager and most of his team-mates would welcome him back.
      “He firmly believes he is an innocent man and is very frustrated he’s not been able to play.
      Most read in Football
      “He understands that the club have had to carry out an investigation, but he feels like his career is slipping by.
      “He and his team have made clear to United that they now want to know what is happening.
      “They have basically said, ‘sack him or back him’.
      “If they want to reintegrate him, then do so. If they want to sell him, then tell him.
      “And if they want to loan him out, then tell them so his team can find the best club for him.”
      Any return by Greenwood would spark major controversy.
      Earlier this year it was revealed that the Manchester United women’s team did not want him back.
      The feeling was said to be “strong” that he should be let go.
      Only three months ago, Natalie Burrell, founder of United Women’s Supporters’ Club, said she never wants to see him play for them again.
      She added: “United need to make a statement and letting him back would be the worst thing they could do.
      “It would set back our club in terms of what we’re trying to do with our women’s team and campaigns like Her Game Too, which aim to encourage women to play and watch football.
      “I don’t want to see him training, in a kit, or coming out at Old Trafford again. And I’m confident they won’t (let him).”
      Manchester United have already had contact with three Italian teams — Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan — about a possible loan move.
      It would see Greenwood retain his £75,000-a-week salary, with a possible option for the loan club to buy.
      Greenwood, who has one full cap for England, last kicked a ball for United in January 2022.
      He was arrested the same month after a woman made allegations of physical and sexual abuse on social media. United immediately suspended him on full pay.
      He was charged in October last year and was due to stand trial in November this year.
      Fans with shirts bearing his name were told they could exchange them for free and the club removed all Greenwood-related merchandise from its website and megastore.
      Nike also ended its multi-million pound sponsorship deal with him while EA Sports removed the player from its FIFA 22 video game.
      But the Crown Prosecution Service withdrew the case on February 2 after Greenwood’s alleged victim and a dozen more witnesses refused to co-operate.
      Greenwood hoped the move would leave him clear to start playing for United again. But the club instead immediately launched its own investigation.
      Read more on The Sun
      Meanwhile, United are in the middle of a potential sale.
      The owners want £6billion and are currently weighing up two bids, from British billionaire businessman Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Qatari Sheikh Jassim.
      Erik Ten Hag has made it clear he is happy for Greenwood to play againCredit: PA
      But a final decision is expected to be made by United’s owners, the Glazer family, pictured above Joel Glazer with brothers Avram and Bryan in 2005Credit: Getty
      Timeline of twists and turns
      JAN 30 2022: Greenwood arrested on suspicion of rape and GBH after a woman posts videos of bruises and cuts on social media. He is suspended by Man U “until further notice”.
      JAN 31 2022: Striker is further arrested on suspicion of sexual assault.
      FEB 1 2022: Man U issue a “strong condemnation of violence of any kind”, adding £75,000-a-week Greenwood still suspended.
      FEB 2 2022: Ace freed on bail after three nights in custody.
      FEB 6 2022: Nike terminates multi-million-pound deal with him as video games axe him.
      OCT 15 2022: Greenwood is charged with attempted rape, coercive control and ABH.
      NOV 27, 2022: We reveal cops probing claims star broke bail terms by buying designer clothing for alleged victim.
      FEB 2 2023: All charges dropped after a dozen witnesses, including alleged victim, refuse to co-operate with CPS probe.
      MAR 17 2023: Ace reveals he is to marry his pregnant university student partner.
      APRIL 28 2023: We reveal ace has told pals he will “never play for Man United again” as internal probe continues. More

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      in Soccer

      Three Man Utd rejects out to destroy Man City dream for Inter Milan as fans wonder why they aren’t still at Old Trafford

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED have been waiting 12 years and counting to return to a Champions League final.That 3-1 defeat at Wembley in 2011 by Barcelona was their third appearance in four years after winning it in 2008.
      Ex-Manchester United man Matteo Darmian has turned it around at InterCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      Team-mate Romelu Lukaku is another former Red DevilCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      Henrikh Mkhitaryan won the Europa League with UnitedCredit: Getty – Contributor

      CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL – MAN CITY VS INTER MILAN: All you need to know including kick-off time and TV details
      They have not even been close since with the quarters, twice, as far as they have got.
      So United fans might be wondering how three of their rejects have managed it with Inter Milan today — and if they should have left Old Trafford at all.
      So where did it all go wrong for Romelu Lukaku, 30, Matteo Darmian, 33, and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, 34, with the Red Devils?
      Still short of a No 9, United could do with a Lukaku at his best.
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      But the Belgian’s time at the club came to an inauspicious end training on his own at a cricket ground in Perth before Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could get him out.
      He arrived from Everton for £75million in July 2017 and had a spectacular start under Jose Mourinho.
      He scored ten goals in his first nine games and beat Sir Bobby Charlton’s 58-year club record of nine in his first nine.
      Lukaku bagged 27 goals in his first season, including 16 in the Prem as United came second.
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      The following season did not go so well as Mourinho’s reign unravelled and Solskjaer’s faster more fluent game did not suit the targetman.
      His second season will be remembered for his double against hosts Paris Saint-Germain as United reached the last eight on the away-goals rule after overcoming a 2-0 first-leg deficit with a 3-1 win.
      But Solskjaer kept him away from the rest of the squad during pre-season training the following summer at the WACA cricket ground before a £73m switch to Inter Milan was agreed.
      A record of 42 goals in 96 appearances still looks good.
      And when he went on to get 64 in 95 games in the next two seasons at Inter, United fans must have wondered what Solskjaer was thinking.
      The on-loan Chelsea striker now stands on the brink of his greatest-ever achievement back at Inter — with boss Simone Inzaghi having to chose between him and former Manchester City frontman Edin Dzeko to start up top.

      Mkhitaryan left many fans just as baffled as the attacking midfielder failed to convince Mourinho right from the start, despite the Special One making him a £30m signing in the summer of 2016.
      He waited until September 10 for his first Prem start and was hooked at half-time for failing to track back for Manchester City’s second goal in a 2-1 defeat.
      Mkhitaryan would start only 15 league games that season but was a hero in the Europa League run.
      He played ten games from the off and scored six goals including one in the 2-0 triumph over Ajax in the final. With that he became the first Armenian to win a European trophy.
      The first three matches of the following campaign saw him assist five goals but he never really fitted in with what Mourinho wanted defensively.
      He did not even figure in the squad for five games before a brief return ahead of his switch to Arsenal in January 2018 as part of a deal to bring Alexis Sanchez to United.
      Now he is heading for a fairytale end to his career.
      Mkhitaryan said: “I want to win because it’s the Champions League — that doesn’t come along every day.”
      He is fit despite being out since May 16 with a thigh injury.
      Full-back Darmian had four years at United after a £12.9m move from Torino in July 2015.
      Again, he had a great start and was named the club’s player of the month for August.
      His 24 league starts that first season under Louis van Gaal would be his best tally.
      Darmian moved to Parma for £1.4m in September 2019 then joined Inter the following season — initially on loan.
      Read more on The Sun
      But he has not forgotten his time at Old Trafford and wants to stop City matching United’s 1999 Treble.
      He said: “Being a former United player is extra motivation.” More