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      Man City ‘had 60 bottles of champagne in dressing room after Real Madrid 4-0 win’ but Guardiola banned all celebrations

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      MANCHESTER CITY had “60 bottles of champagne” in their dressing-room to celebrate reaching the Champions League final – but their boss banned it all.The showpiece of club football’s top-tier European tournament will take place on Saturday, June 10.
      Pep Guardiola has banned all celebrations until City clinch their first piece of silverwareCredit: Rex
      City will face Italy’s Inter Milan in the big one at Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Turkey.
      The Cityzens thrashed Real Madrid 4-0 to reach the final with a 5-1 aggregate scoreline.
      Guardiola’s men are now odds-on to win the treble this season.
      They are just three wins away from wrapping up the Premier League title, FA Cup and Champions League.
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      However, despite reaching the final of the Champions League for just the second time in their history, City’s manager was in no mood to let his boys get on the bubbly to celebrate.
      The Daily Mail claims that “security staff removed 60 bottles of champagne that had been ordered for the home dressing room” following Wednesday’s demolition job of the current holders.
      They claim that Guardiola has banned celebrations until they have won their first trophy in their Treble pursuit.
      Officials at the club were allegedly “told that the champagne had been dispatched in error by hospitality staff” and it was instead “intended to be placed in the dressing room on Sunday” when they could potentially clinch a fifth Premier League title in six years.
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      And it is not only the champers that the star-studded squad has to look forward to.
      Guardiola is believed to have promised to take his players and their families “out for a celebratory meal and drinks at the end of the season” even if they fail to land any silverware.
      City’s attention has now returned to the Premier League, where they can wrap up the title with a win over Chelsea on Sunday afternoon.
      They could seal it 24 hours earlier though if Arsenal lose to Nottingham Forest, or win it with a draw if that’s the result the Gunners get at the City Ground.
      The FA Cup final comes next when the two Manchester clubs meet at that stage for the first time ever at Wembley on June 3.
      Then all eyes will turn to the Champions League for the showdown with Inter. More

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      ‘I pushed hard to sign Haaland four years ago but Chelsea didn’t have the appetite’ reveals Frank Lampard

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      FRANK LAMPARD took a swipe at Chelsea’s old regime over their failure to sign Erling Haaland when he was last in charge.Haaland was a talent at Red Bull Salzburg when Lampard made his move after watching him during a summer friendly against the Blues in 2019.
      Lampard has revealed that Chelsea failed to sign Haaland before he joined Man CityCredit: Getty
      Haaland signed for Man City from Borussia Dortmund last summerCredit: Reuters
      But the Norwegian joined Borussia Dortmund for £18million and now leads Manchester City’s fearsome forward line who face Chelsea on Sunday.
      Lamps, caretaker boss until the end of the season, said: “I pushed it.
      “I’m not sure what the appetite everywhere else at the club was to do it.
      “The competition was big because he was an outstanding player.
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      “I think there was a buyout clause at the time that was reasonable considering the player.
      “I don’t have enough detail to know how close it was. We prepped for that game and watched Salzburg and we were struck by him.
      “He’s quite striking anyway because of his stature and size.
      “In that year, he scored a lot of goals at Salzburg. It wasn’t hard to scout him. It was easy because he was making waves.
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      “The recruitment at that point was not so much my job every week.
      “It was the department that did that and he was a clear player of interest.”
      Haaland, 22, still cost City only £51.4m when he signed for them last summer and he now has 36 Premier League goals — as many as the entire Chelsea team this season.
      Lampard said: “He’s special. I thought he’d adapt straight away.
      “With his level and his record of scoring firstly in Austria, secondly for his country and then in the Bundesliga — which is not an easy league — to come into a really good unit already, that’s a recipe to really help him.
      “The rest is credit to himself and the team around him.”
      City could clinch their third Premier League title in a row against Chelsea as the first instalment of their Treble quest.
      It will be painful for Chelsea’s costly squad to witness their Prem rivals celebrating if they do.
      Lampard said: “The only inspiration there should be is what it’s taken City to get where they are.
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      “Their team clearly works hard. When one player has to stop working hard another one steps in.
      “That’s what the players have to understand.”  More

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      Premier League cult hero says ‘I’d love to play for Wrexham’ and is desperate to meet Hollywood superstar Ryan Reynolds

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      PREMIER LEAGUE cult hero Morten Gamst Pedersen has revealed he would “love” to play for Wrexham. The 41-year-old, who now plays with Ranheim in Norway’s second tier, declared his intention to return to England with an eye on a move to the National League champions.
      Premier League cult hero Morten Gamst Pedersen has revealed he wants to play for WrexhamCredit: Action Images – Reuters
      He is impressed with the project Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny are buildingCredit: Getty
      While also revealing he would love to meet the Deadpool starCredit: Rex
      Owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny, Wrexham gained promotion to the football league with a record-breaking 111 points.
      Ahead of their League Two campaign next season, Pedersen lavished praise on the Welsh club and revealed his desire to rub shoulders with Deadpool star Reynolds.
      Speaking to Sportbible, he said: “It’s unbelievable what they [Wrexham] are doing.
      “I think it’s so cool. Yes, they get promoted and everything, but they are also building a brand from a club that’s quite far down in the system.
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      “It shows that if you get the right people and the right attitude, and everybody drags in the same direction, you can do a lot.
      “Aren’t they the second-oldest club in the UK as well? They have a great history.”
      Asked about the possibility of playing for Wrexham, Pedersen added: “Yeah, I would love to. Why not? Of course.
      “Maybe if you tag me in a social media post, Ryan Reynolds could read this, and we get a chance to meet…”
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      Pedersen previously played in England with Blackburn, making 348 appearances between 2004 and 2013.
      The Norwegian revealed he still maintains a strong relationship with the club and its fans.
      On leaving Ewood Park, he said: “A few English clubs were interested but I’m going to be honest. It would have been really, really tough to sign for another English team.
      “The love I had for Blackburn and the people that worked there. It wasn’t easy just to walk away.
      “I’ve been a loyal person to Blackburn and they’ve been loyal to me. That’s why I still have good connections with them.
      “Even last summer when they were discussing a new manager, the owners called me and asked what I thought about some of the options. I really appreciated that.”
      Pedersen is among a rare group of footballers who have continued to play into their 40s, but he insisted this was down to consistent work to maintain his fitness levels.
      “If you’re going to build a house, you need a good base, and I feel I’ve got that now,” he explained.
      “I’d say the strength work is probably the most important. You can lose some power as you get older, so that’s the most important thing to be on top of.
      “Of course, pace is the first thing you lose. I’ve never been the fastest player in the world but you try and lose as little as possible.
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      “That’s a major part of football. I’m working hard to stay on the same fitness levels as everyone else.
      “Sometimes you have to think of your limitations. There is a life after football but at the moment, I can still focus on the things I want to do and challenge myself.” More

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      WWE legend John Cena offers to buy Harry Kane ‘a pint’ with wrestler telling England star ‘you’ve made me smile’

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      WWE legend John Cena offered to take Harry Kane out for ‘a pint’ after he was compared to the Tottenham striker by an artificial intelligence chatbot.The 46-year-old wrestler and actor, who burst onto the scene when he made his Ultimate Pro Wrestling debut in 1999, has continued to enjoy a glittering career both in and out of the ring.
      Cena has been likened to KaneCredit: Reuters
      Cena was thrilled with the comparisons to KaneCredit: Sky Sports
      “Harry Kane I’ve never met you but you sound like a hell of a guy!” 😅It seems like Fast X star John Cena and Harry Kane need to go for a pint 🍻 pic.twitter.com/L8Yvg3ccNj— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 19, 2023

      He most recently starred in ‘Fast X’ – the 10th instalment from the Fast and Furious franchise.
      And while on a press trip to promote the film, he was tasked with completing an assessment on ChatGPT.
      When reading the verdict to Sky Sports, he was pleasantly surprised to be likened to Kane.
      That is despite not knowing who the Tottenham and England striker actually is.
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      He said: “If John Cena were a Premier League footballer, he would be Tottenham Hotspur’s Harry Kane.
      “John Cena is highly athletic with a strong work ethic and a track record of high performance at an elite level. Based on these traits, he could be compared to Harry Kane.
      “John Cena’s dedication to inspire could also be compared to Kane, in his tireless work rate, strong leadership and and positive influence on those around him, both on and off the pitch.”
      The WWE icon then admitted that he had never experienced such “flattery” before delivering his own message to Kane.
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      He added: “Harry Kane I’ve never met you but you sound like a hell of a guy.
      “I’ve never had this much flattery bestowed upon me on my life so Harry Kane thank you for making my day.
      “You’ve made me smile and I got to be called a while lot of nice things because of you. If you want a pint somewhere, then I’m your man.”
      Kane could leave Tottenham this summer, with Manchester United, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain all interested. More

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      Man City’s biggest party animals from Las Vegas-loving Jack Grealish to cigar smoking Guardiola and DJ Erling Haaland

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      MANCHESTER CITY’S mid-week 4-0 thumping of Real Madrid put them on the verge of a historic treble.And boy will they know how to celebrate if they get the job done.
      Jack Grealish parties in Las Vegas alongside Declan Rice and Mason MountCredit: https://www.instagram.com/jackgrealish/
      Pep Guardiola loves a celebratory cigarCredit: AFP
      From Jack Grealish’s Las Vegas party antics to Pep Guardiola’s puffs on a cigar – City’s slickers aren’t shy in letting their hair down after taking care of business.
      With City the overwhelming favourites to win upcoming cup finals against Manchester United and Inter Milan, and on the cusp of lifting the Premier League trophy, SunSport takes a look at how their stars have celebrated past successes.
      And there’s no better place to start than with boss Guardiola.
      The 52-year-old loves to throw shapes on the dance floor, and has shown off his moves during his tenure as City boss.
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      Guardiola also loves to puff on a celebratory cigar after achieving his goals.
      Star man Grealish is also one to party hard in his spare time.
      The wing wizard holidayed in Ibiza and Vegas last summer – and wasn’t having any criticism for partying like a normal 27-year-old when his job is done.
      Earlier this season, he said: “Obviously I’m enjoying myself. I went to Ibiza after we won the league, and then I went to Vegas after my England trip.
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      Grealish poses with Elton John on a night outCredit: https://www.instagram.com/jackgrealish/
      Grealish loves to party with palsCredit: https://www.instagram.com/jackgrealish/
      “Then apart from that, I was away with my girlfriend, working hard and trying to get back training.”
      Kyle Walker is also one to party hard in his spare time.
      While his fellow Yorkshireman John Stones was also spotted knocking back the booze with pal Tom Cleverley during one off-season break.
      The defender loves to party with his team-mates too, and was even recorded attempting a Jamaican accent while attending Raheem Sterling’s birthday party, much to the wing wizard’s amusement.
      Star striker Erling Haaland is also one to let his hair down, and not just while scoring against Arsenal.
      Last summer the Norwegian superstar partied with a DJ while holidaying in Marbella the week before he joined up with City.
      Back in his Dortmund days he also wore his full club tracksuit to a nightclub as he revelled with fans.
      Erling Haaland loves to party with friends
      Haaland once partied in his Dortmund tracksuitCredit: TWITTER
      John Stones clutches a bottle of JagerCredit: Simon Jones – The Sun
      Phil Foden also enjoys a night out, and was even given a slap on the wrist by Guardiola for a mid-season night out with Grealish last season.
      Back in his Leeds days, Kalvin Phillips attended their Christmas do at a London nightclub.
      He’ll have to be more careful on future escapades, however, as he hurt his head slipping on the stairs.
      Kevin De Bruyne is usually known as a wholesome, family man – but can party with the best of them when the occasion calls for it.
      Last summer he enjoyed a Calvin Harris DJ set in Ibiza alongside Liverpool ace Virgil van Dijk.
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      Riyad Mahrez loves to party alongside wife Taylor Ward.
      And last summer he was spotted in a St Tropez celeb hotspot.
      Phil Foden parties with GrealishCredit: https://twitter.com/VillaWatch1/status/1472936023038517258
      Kalvin Phillips will win a Prem title this term… unlike his pal
      Kevin De Bruyne hangs out with Calvin Harris and Virgil van DijkCredit: https://www.instagram.com/calvinharris/
      Riyad Mahrez parties in MykonosCredit: Instagram / @taylorwardx More

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      Arsenal star Granit Xhaka CLEARED of any involvement in possible betting scam for yellow card v Leeds last season

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      GRANIT XHAKA has been cleared of any involvement in a possible betting scam. Arsenal star Xhaka was the subject of investigation by the FA, Gambling Commission and National Crime Agency following a yellow card he received against Leeds in December 2021.
      Granit Xhaka has been cleared of any involvement in an alleged betting scamCredit: Getty
      Xhaka was booked for time wasting in a 2021 clash against LeedsCredit: Getty
      The investigation into the 30-year-old even looked into alleged involvement from the Albanian mafia.
      However, following multiple investigations, the matter has finally been closed after it was deemed Xhaka had no case to answer.
      The match the Swiss international received his card with the Gunners 3-0 ahead.
      Xhaka was then booked by Andre Marriner for time wasting on a free-kick in the 86th minute.
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      Suspicious betting patterns were picked up regarding the booking, including one bet worth £52,000 being placed on him getting the caution.
      The following six months saw the FA investigate the alleged offence, before they passed the matter onto the NCA who have now dropped the case due to a lack of evidence.
      Having joined Arsenal from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2016, Xhaka has gone on to make 295 appearances for the North London outfit.
      However, his time at the Emirates looks set to come to an end this summer.
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      The Swiss International is said to be nearing a return to the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen.
      With Arsenal set to receive £15million for Xhaka, Mikel Arteta will push club bosses to bring in some midfield reinforcements.
      West Ham star Declan Rice has been heavily linked with a transfer.
      But recent reports suggest talks will not open between the two clubs until June. More

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      How Tottenham could line up under Arne Slot with two England stars as top transfer targets for summer rebuild

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      TOTTENHAM could have a whole new look next season if they land Arne Slot from Feyenoord.Slot, 44, emerged as a leading contender for the Spurs manager’s job after leading the Dutch club to a surprise Eredivisie title.
      Tottenham could have a whole new-look if Arne Slot joins from FeyenoordCredit: Getty
      Daniel Levy is already believed to be working on transfer recruitsCredit: PA
      SunSport revealed this week that Feyenoord plan to give Slot a hefty pay rise AND back him in the transfer market ahead of next season’s Champions League campaign.
      But whatever they offer will be dwarfed by the cash the London club can put on the table if they go for the ex-AZ Alkmaar gaffer.
      And Daniel Levy is also set to back him in the transfer market.
      We previously revealed how Spurs want to snap up England No 1 Jordan Pickford — despite Everton tying him down to a new 4½-year contract.
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      The North London club are preparing to change their goalkeeper in the summer with 36-year-old skipper Hugo Lloris’ days numbered.
      And Pickford is STILL their first choice even after committing to his long Goodison deal.
      Pickford’s value will depend on what happens with Everton at the end of the season.
      If they are relegated, there is an agreement that he can be sold.
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      Pickford’s price would be lower as a Championship player but the Toffees would still want around £35million — although that could be haggled down.
      We also reported how James Maddison is set to leave Leicester City even if they survive in the Premier League.
      Maddison is also about to enter the final 12 months of his contract, which means this is the last opportunity for Leicester to cash-in rather than risk losing him for nothing next year when his deal expires.
      Spurs are one of the clubs battling to sign the attacker.
      And there is no doubt that Slot would love to have both Three Lions stars among his ranks next term if he were to take charge.
      Meanwhile, the Daily Express are also claiming that Slot could raid a number of other relegated clubs to help his Tottenham rebuild.

      Southampton are preparing for life in the Championship but midfielder Romeo Lavia looks certain to be one of the players to leave, with this report stating that “Spurs should definitely be involved” in the chase to sign him.
      Meanwhile, Saints defender Armel Bella-Kotchap is another being linked.
      The 21-year-old has struggled with injuries this season but the German ace has shone during his limited outings.
      Leeds United are also facing a fight to stay in the top-flight.
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      The Express claims that their 19-year-old forward Wilfried Gnonto is also on Spurs’ radar.
      And if Slot does get the green light to make a move for the above men, then long-suffering supporters could have an exciting new-look young side to cheer on next term – especially if they manage to hang on to club-record scorer Harry Kane to lead the attack. More

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      Liverpool boss Klopp reveals summer transfer plans with three big-name Premier League stars linked with Anfield move

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      JURGEN KLOPP has revealed that Liverpool will look to sign several players when the summer transfer window opens.The Reds are set to bid farewell to James Milner, Roberto Firmino, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita at the end of the season.
      Klopp has revealed that Liverpool will look to strengthen in several areas this summerCredit: Getty
      And club officials have already compiled a list of potential replacements.
      According to The Daily Mail, midfielders Alexis Mac Allister, Mason Mount and Matheus Nunes have all emerged as top transfer targets.
      However, Klopp has revealed that the club will look to strengthen in all areas of the pitch this summer.
      In a press conference on Friday, the 55-year-old said: “We look in all departments apart from goalkeeper at the moment.
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      “Yes, if there is a good one (defender) out there, I would not deny it. That’s all. We look at all areas of the pitch, definitely.”
      Liverpool are also expected to bring in a new Sporting Director to oversee transfer activity.
      Former goalkeeper Jorg Schmadtke has been heavily linked with the job, but club officials are yet to confirm his appointment.
      When questioned about the potential arrival of Schmadtke, Klopp added: “I cannot speak about that.
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      “But if it happens, it would not be a Jurgen Klopp signing because we are both German or both know each other. That would have nothing to do with it. I can say that.
      “Jorg Schmadtke I have known a long, long time. He knows me probably not as long as I know him, because he was a much better player. But we started in a similar moment our second career, I became a coach at Mainz and he became sporting director at Aachen.
      “Two teams of similar status, so from there we know each other a little bit. I know he is a good guy and a smart guy. Very good at what he did in Germany, definitely, very successful.
      “His character is good, his personality is good, his humour is good. I know that from a few moments next to the pitch.
      “We could talk about (former Borussia Dortmund Sporting Director) Michael Zorc. Similar age group, similar situation, just a bit longer in retirement I know him much better. There are some good sporting directors in Germany you wouldn’t believe!”
      Liverpool are set to host Aston Villa at Anfield on Saturday afternoon.
      A win will see the Reds leapfrog Manchester United into fourth. More