More stories

  • in

    Leny Yoro flying to Man Utd for medical and to finalise personal terms after £52m transfer agreed for Lille star, 18

    LENY YORO is flying to England for a medical after Lille accepted a £52million bid from Manchester United.The Red Devils are ready to close a stunning deal for the 18-year-old despite facing fierce competition from Real Madrid.Leny Yoro is on his way to England for a medical after Man Utd had a £52m bid accepted by LilleCredit: GettyYoro was thought to favour a move to Spain.But The Athletic claims United have stormed ahead after successfully submitting an offer worth £52m.And Yoro is now on his way to Carrington for a medical before striking personal terms on a lucrative contract.The teen appears to have had a major change of heart after initially setting his sights on a Bernabeu switch.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLReal made Yoro their No1 choice to replace outgoing veteran Nacho Fernandez.And with the youngster out of contract next summer, they were even prepared to wait a year before landing him on a free transfer.But Yoro now looks to have been convinced by the project on offer at Old Trafford.It’s been all change behind the scenes, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos in charge of football operations.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe day-to-day is being overseen by new sporting director Dan Ashworth and technical chief Jason Wilcox, as well as CEO Omar Berrada.Erik ten Hag has signed a new contract taking him until 2026.Who is Manchester United’s new striker Joshua Zirkzee? (1)And the Dutchman has been joined in the dugout by two compatriots, with Ruud van Nisterooy and Rene Hake his new assistants.United have already made a first signing in £37m Netherland striker Joshua Zirkzee.Matthijs de Ligt is expected to follow from Bayern Munich.And Ten Hag could make it a hat-trick of Dutch Euro 2024 aces by sealing a move for PSG’s Xavi Simons. More

  • in

    Man Utd ‘won’t pursue Gareth Southgate as manager if they sack Ten Hag with ex-Chelsea boss top target for the job’

    GARETH SOUTHGATE will not be a target to replace Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, reports say. Southgate has left his position as England manager after 2-1 defeat in the Euro 2024 final to Spain. Gareth Southgate left his position as England managerCredit: AlamyHe was long linked with the United job as Ten Hag looked to be facing an uncertain future. But after a summer of deliberation, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Old Trafford board decided to stick with the Dutchman.Southgate is admired by Ratcliffe & Co at United but he could no longer be a target to replace Ten Hag in the future. Instead, ex-Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel would be considered next in line for the role, according to the Daily Mail. READ MORE IN BOXINGThat is despite Tuchel already interviewing with Ratcliffe for the job this summer only for a deal to fall by the wayside. The pair met in Monaco but it is believed Ratcliffe deemed the German needed a break from football. Tuchel famously won the Champions League with Chelsea in 2021 before being sacked a year later. He then moved to Bayern Munich and won the Bundesliga in 2023 before leaving at the end of last season. Most read in FootballThomas Tuchel is still linked with the Man Utd jobCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTuchel is believed to fancy a move back to England for any suitable job in the Premier League. But as revealed by SunSport, he is also open to taking the England job. Right now, Graham Potter is favourite to succeed Southgate having not returned to management before being sacked by Chelsea last September. Erik ten Hag FA Cup similarities to Sir Alex Ferguson’s 1990 crown More

  • in

    Chelsea release statement after Enzo Fernandez video sparked racism storm as club open investigation following outrage

    CHELSEA have released a statement over Enzo Fernandez’s “racist” video.The midfielder is in hot water after live-streaming himself and Argentina teammates singing a vile song about the French national team.Chelsea have released a statement over Enzo Fernandez’s vile songCredit: ReutersThe midfielder filmed himself and Argentina teammates chanting about the French national teamThe video went out as a live-stream on social mediaHe has since issued a grovelling apology after a backlash from teammates.And Chelsea have now broken their silence while revealing they’ve opened an investigation into Fernandez’s antics.A statement read: “Chelsea Football Club finds all forms of discriminatory behaviour completely unacceptable. “We are proud to be a diverse, inclusive club where people from all cultures, communities and identities feel welcome.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We acknowledge and appreciate our player’s public apology and will use this as an opportunity to educate.”The Club has instigated an internal disciplinary procedure.”The sick footage emerged after Argentina beat Colombia 1-0 to win successive Copa America trophies.The video showed Argentina players singing a racist song about the France team following their victory at the Hard Rock Stadium.Most read in FootballThe vile chant dates back to the 2022 World Cup, when Argentina beat France in the final on penalties.Appearing on live TV, some fans from the South American country sang that France’s players were “all from Angola.”Copa America fans clamber into AIR VENTS as Argentina vs Colombia final descends into chaosFernandez issued a grovelling apology on social mediaWesley Fofana slammed Fernandez for ‘uninhibited racism’And they also targeted Kylian Mbappe with a transphobic chant amid reports surrounding his dating life.In the latest video, Chelsea star Fernandez and team-mates could be heard to sign the part about Angola.Fernandez filmed the footage on his phone via Instagram live, with the midfielder showing celebrations on the team bus.And seconds after the vile chant began, he switched the recording off.The song has reportedly angered Chelsea’s large French contingent, which includes Christopher Nkunku, Malo Gusto and Axel Disasi.Benoit Badiashile, Lesley Ugochukwu and Malang Sarr also hail from across the Channel.And defender Wesley Fofana blasted Fernandez in a social media post on Tuesday night.He said: “Football in 2024: uninhibited racism.”Fernandez has since issued an apology, saying: “I want to apologise sincerely for a video posted on my Instagram channel during the national team celebrations.“The song includes highly offensive language and there is absolutely no excuse for these words.“I stand against discrimination in all forms and apologise for getting caught up in the euphoria of our Copa America celebrations.“That video, that moment, those words, do not reflect my beliefs or my character. I am truly sorry.”READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, French FA chiefs are threatening legal action against Argentina over the incident.A statement read: “Given the seriousness of these shocking remarks, which are contrary to the values of sport and human rights, the FFF president has decided to contact its Argentinian counterpart and Fifa directly to file a legal complaint for racist and discriminatory remarks.” More

  • in

    Cole Palmer hits gym less than 48 hours after Euro 2024 final heartache as Chelsea star gets straight back to work

    CHELSEA star Cole Palmer returned to work immediately after England’s Euro 2024 heartbreak.The Three Lions came close to their first major honour since 1966 on Sunday but lost 2-1 to Spain in the final.Chelsea star Cole Palmer hit the gym just 48 hours after England’s Euro 2024 heartbreakCredit: https://www.instagram.com/palmers_pt/Palmer is gearing up for a return to Chelsea amid their pre-season tourCredit: https://www.instagram.com/palmers_pt/Palmer scored for England in the Euro 2024 final against SpainCredit: GettyPalmer, 22, sent the whole nation wild with his stunning equaliser in Sunday’s showdown, only for Spain to nick it at the end.England stars were left gutted after yet another Euro heartbreak after losing to Italy on penalties last time out at Wembley in 2021.However, Palmer got back to work just 48 hours later as he hit the gym hard.The playmaker shared a story on Instagram showing him lifting weights.Read More on FootballThe Chelsea star worked on his triceps and biceps in his bid to get ready for pre-season.Palmer also issued the following caption along with the clip: “Straight back to it.”England fans insisted the ex-Manchester City star should have been part of Gareth Southgate’s starting line-up throughout the entire tournament.The forward played in five out of seven Euro 2024 matches and never started.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat was despite his stunning season with Chelsea on his maiden campaign at Stamford Bridge.Palmer amassed a staggering total of 25 goals and 15 assists in 45 appearances.England footy ace Cole Palmer does his famous Cold CelebrationPalmer enjoyed a stunning maiden campaign at ChelseaAnd he now counts two goals in nine caps for England after the Euros.Chelsea kick of their pre-season next Thursday morning with a clash against Hollywood side Wrexham in the USA. More

  • in

    Newcastle fire hands-off warning to England over Eddie Howe – but even Toon legend Shearer says he’s the man for the job

    NEWCASTLE UNITED have issued a hands-off warning to England over Eddie Howe – but even Toon legend Alan Shearer reckons he’s the right man for the job.Gareth Southgate’s resignation triggered the race to become the new Three Lions manager.Newcastle are not keen to let manager Eddie Howe leave for EnglandCredit: GettyGareth Southgate resigned as England manager after Euro 2024Credit: RexNewcastle legend Alan Shearer has claimed Howe is the right man to succeed SouthgateCredit: GettyHowe is a leading contender along with free agent Graham Potter — while another former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel also wants the job.A move for the St James’ Park chief could cost England more than they bargained in compensation after he signed a fresh Toon contract last summer.But Shearer admits Howe would be a good fit for the role.Speaking to Betfair, Newcastle’s record scorer said: “I would imagine the outstanding candidate would be Eddie Howe.Read More on Football”I think Eddie has a big decision to make because I’m certain the FA will ask him and then whatever happens after that, we don’t know.”I’m fairly sure that a conversation will have been had or will be ongoing now within the FA where Eddie Howe’s name will get a mention. “Whether Eddie wants the job or not will be the key. The fact we’re talking about Eddie and England again means he’s done a really, really good job at Newcastle.”He’s been fantastic and it’d be a big blow if he leaves because the fans love him, he’s done a remarkable job and he understands the club, but I get it and I understand it.Most read in Football”Whatever he chooses, if he is tempted by the England job, which I suspect he may be, I don’t think many people could or would stand in his way – albeit Newcastle would lose a very talented manager.”But even if England are interested and Howe fancies the switch to international management, Newcastle won’t make it easy for their gaffer to walk away.’Get him in’ – England fans reveal who they would like to replace Gareth Southgate after Euro defeatThis felt like our time… but keep Gareth’s culture and we can win it in 2026 instead, writes Jack WilshereIT will take a while for me and every England fan to get over this, writes Jack Wilshere.To come so close to winning that trophy, only to be beaten in a second Euros final in a row, is a huge disappointment.Especially when it really felt like this was our time.It seemed that everything was coming together for us to end the long wait for a major title.But Spain deserved it. They were the better team in the final and the best team of the tournament.We will all — supporters, players, coaches, the FA — have to move on and go again.Because English football is still in a good position.Gareth Southgate has taken us to two finals, a semi-final and a quarter-final in four tournaments. We have never produced a run like that before.The challenge now is to maintain this level of competitiveness and make England even better.Southgate and his staff have done a fantastic job in changing the whole environment and narrative around the national team.Now Gareth is gone, the wider culture he has put in place must be preserved.This tournament was the biggest test of that culture the team had to go through.They overcame the problems and went all the way, only to fall at the final hurdle.But there is every reason to believe we can challenge at the World Cup in 2026 and beyond.We’ve got a really good group of players, many of them young, who can go on playing and performing for England for years.Jude Bellingham, Kobbie Mainoo, Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden and Cole Palmer — to name just five — have plenty more tournaments in them.This tournament will also be an inspiration for the next generations of players. Unfortunately there isn’t the trophy lift to take that to a completely different level.But England have delivered moments in Germany that will be replayed forever.The Bellingham overhead kick and Ollie Watkins’ semi-final winner will be recreated in playgrounds and cages up and down the country.What I would like to see now is England continuing to develop, to become a team that can consistently dominate opponents and can give a real identity to English football.We now have players who are comfortable on the ball and technically very good.The biggest disappointment of the tournament was that we didn’t see that as often as we would have liked. That leaves us with a ‘what if?’ feeling.England must not lose that old-school mentality of finding a way to win even when you’re not playing well — that never-say-die spirit which got us through this Euros more than once.But the next step is to allow other qualities to shine through, to give the players that our system is creating the platform to show  everything they can do.The job for me and for other coaches is to keep producing players that are comfortable on the ball and understand how to perform under pressure at a high level.English football is in a good place but we need to keep going. Then we will finally get over the line.Real all of SunSport columnist Jack Wilshere’s Euro 2024 columns…The Magpies’ Saudi owners are ready to back Howe big in the transfer market to help get them back into the Champions League.And a hush-hush deal penned 12 months ago has not only tied him down long-term to St James’ Park, it has also ensured that the FA would need to cough up even more compensation to get the ex-Bournemouth manager.FA bigwigs will consider putting England Under-21s chief Lee Carsley in interim charge for the next game against Ireland if the deal drags on.Newcastle CEO Darren Eales revealed the secret extension from the German pre-season training HQ: “It is speculation on Eddie.“He has been an amazing manager at the club and he is committed to Newcastle with the work that he has done.“We’re on an exciting journey and Eddie is the man to lead us on that.“He’s on a multi-year deal which was extended last summer. He’s our employee and we’re not looking to release Eddie.“He loves the day-to-day of club football and we have an exciting project here.“We are really excited about this season ahead.“Eddie is a great developer of players. He gets the psyche of the club, Newcastle and the fans.“He is exactly the right man for the project we are on at Newcastle United and that is why we are committed to a long-term deal with him. We love him.”After being forced to offload Elliot Anderson to Nottingham Forest to ease Premier League spending rules issues last month, Howe can now look forward to strengthening his squad.And Eales declared that there is money now they have entered a new PSR window.Southgate’s highs and lows as England bossGARETH Southgate took charge of 102 games for England before quitting in the aftermath of the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.But what were the best – and worst matches – from the popular gaffer’s eight-year reign before that devastating Sunday night in Berlin? Here we take a look.THE HIGHS:Colombia 1-1 England (3-4 on pens,) 2018 World CupThis was the night that long-suffering supporters finally started to believe that it was coming home.Despite conceding a late equaliser, England held their nerve to advance to the quarter final of the World Cup 2018 on penalties.It was our first shootout victory for 22 years.Spain 2-3 England, 2018 Nations LeagueFollowing on from the World Cup, England won in Spain for the first time in 31 years with a brilliant Uefa Nations League victory.Southgate’s boys stunned the Seville crowd into silence with a thrilling performance that saw them lead 3-0 at the break thanks to a Raheem Sterling brace and Marcus Rashford.Although the hosts scored two after the break, the way the Three Lions tore La Roja apart excited every fan.England 2-1 Denmark, Euro 2020 semi-finalSouthgate led England to their first major final in 55 years as they beat Denmark after extra-time in the Euro 2020 semi-final.Having fallen behind after half an hour, the Three Lions battled back to send it to extra-time courtesy of an own goal.Then it was captain Kane who converted a rebound after Kasper Schmeichel originally saved his penalty in extra-time to win it.England 3-0 Sengal, 2022 World Cup last 16England had already blown Iran and Wales, 6-2 and 3-0 respectively, away in the World Cup 2022 group stages before they breezed past Senegal.The free-scoring Three Lions recorded another big win to set-up a mouthwatering quarter-final against France – what could go wrong?Italy 1-2 England, Euro qualifiers, 2023On a night when Harry Kane became England’s all-time top scorer, the Three Lions recorded a first away win over Italy since 1961.It was the first game since their 2022 World Cup exit, and it ensured a perfect start to their Euro 2022 qualifying campaign.England 2-1 Holland, Euro 2024 sem-finalThe nation doubted Southgate’s men in the semis of Euro 2024, but they responded with a barnstorming display.Xavi Simons opened the scoring for the Dutch but Harry Kane’s penalty drew us level.And Ollie Watkins slotted in a brilliant winner in injury time to see the Three Lions into their second successive Euros final.AND THE LOWS….Croatia 2-1 England, World Cup semi-final, 2018Having led England to a first World Cup semi-final since 1990, Southgate men made a dream start as Kieran Trippier put them ahead in the early exchanges.But Ivan Perisic equalised as the Croats began to take control.Some of Southgate’s substitutions were then questioned after his team were beaten in extra-time, although many gave him the benefit of the doubt as he returned a hero.Italy 1-1 England (3-2 pens) Euro 2020 finalWill probably never get a better chance to have secured a trophy for the Three Lions than this final of the last European Championship.Luke Shaw gave us the lead after just seconds, but just like against Croatia three years earlier, we sat back and let our rivals back into it.Leonardo Bonucci duly equalised in the second half and the game eventually went to penalties.The unfortunate Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka were all brought on to take a spot-kick, but the brave trio all missed as the Azzurri broke our hearts to take the prize.England 0-4 Hungary, Nations League 2023A year on from the Euros and it was utter embarrassment for Southgate in this Nations League game at Molineux.It was our biggest home defeat since 1928 and the result led to England being relegated from the top group of the Nations League and back to one that contained the Republic of Ireland, Finland and Greece.England 1-2 France, World Cup 2022 quarter-finalsAnother case of what could have been.Having been free-scoring throughout Qatar 2022, many fancied us to go all the way at the World Cup despite taking on the holders in the quarters.We fought back from going behind to level through Kane and many believe that France were then there for the taking had Southgate deployed a more attacking approach.Instead, they seemed content with what they had until Olivier Giroud pounced 12 minutes from time to win it.But there was still one more twist of the knife for England as the usually-reliable Kane skied a late penalty over the bar uncharacteristically as we crashed out.PSR boostAs quoted in The Chronicle, he added: “We’re into a new PSR cycle and we are having those discussions.“Paul Mitchell has come onboard and it is for him and Eddie to discuss what sort of targets they want and the areas they want to strengthen.“It’s then important to have those meetings to decide where we are going to allocate those resources to strengthen our squad. That is what we are looking to do, but these situations are very fluid.“On all of these things, we are compliant. We did what we needed to do.“Going forward we are into a new cycle and we do not want to be leaving ourselves in that situation again in such tight circumstances.“With all of these things, that deadline is needed for the whole market to focus minds and get those deals done.Southgate’s gone – now it’s time to go foreignBy Dave KiddThere is a natural preference to appoint an English successor.And in an ideal world, the England manager should always be English. But this is not an ideal scenario.So the FA must be ambitious in sounding out the best man for the job, regardless of nationality.Because England need a manager who would gain instant respect with players, who would be tactically bold enough to take on Spain and a strong enough character to deal with Jude Bellingham’s Real Madrid Galactico status, which threatens to cause future issues within the England squad. Yes, when the FA have gone foreign in the past, it hasn’t worked out well.Yet the problem with Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello was that neither had any previous involvement in English football.They lacked knowledge and understanding of the football culture — indeed, Capello barely spoke the language.Now there is a wealth of overseas managerial talent with significant Premier League experience, including Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp, Mauricio Pochettino, Carlo Ancelotti and Thomas Tuchel.Read more from Dave Kidd on who England should turn to.Howe has all his stars“But coming out of it, from my perspective, PSR needs to be looked at because incentivising the selling of homegrown players is not a good protocol to have.“We did not want to lose those players but again we had to do the deals we had to do to leave the squad in the best place possible for Eddie moving forward.”And after keeping star names Bruno Guimaraes, Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon and with last summer’s big-money arrival Sandro Tonali due to return from his betting ban, Eales is confident that Howe and new sporting director Mitchell can enhance the squad even further.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe added: “With Bruno, Isak, Gordon, Joelinton and Tonali to come back, we’ve got Lloyd Kelly coming in as an addition already, Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento, we’ve got the squad to kick on.“But we are always looking to add to that and that is the challenge now, that is what we need to do, we need to find ways to improve and that is what we are doing with Eddie and Paul.”Southgate deserved to win a trophy with England… he made us all proud of our team again, writes Shaun CustisGARETH SOUTHGATE deserved to win a trophy as England manager, write Shaun Custis.Unfortunately, you don’t always get what you deserve in life.No man could have worked harder to give the country the silverware it craved and no man cared more about our national team.As a player he went through agonies after missing that fateful penalty against Germany at Euro 96 — and victory as a manager in the Euro 2024 final against Spain on Sunday would have been a wonderful redemption.Southgate himself said he didn’t believe in fairytales — and there was to be no happy ending as ultimately England came up short again when it mattered.But his legacy should be one of great achievement, not of failure.This is an England boss who transformed our feelings towards the Three Lions.Hardened fans, who claimed they only cared about their club, fell back in love with England during Gareth’s eight years in charge.As The Sun’s chief football writer, I followed England through the Sven Göran Eriksson era, on to Steve McClaren, then Fabio Capello and Roy Hodgson.None of them could hold a candle to Southgate.Southgate took it on reluctantly and, when the FA then wanted to make his position permanent, he made it clear he had to have free rein to do the job on his terms.This was to be a new England with no club cliques, no wars with the media and an openness and honesty from coaches and players.He never believed it was the impossible job as many claimed before him.Yes, the Euros was a let-down and England were probably lucky to make the final.But Southgate, by some distance, turned his England team into the most successful since Sir Alf Ramsey’s World Cup winners of 1966.He gave us plenty of entertainment and fun along the way and a reason to feel proud.We were even starting to crack it at penalty shoot-outs.Most importantly, Southgate was a thoroughly decent human being throughout it all, treating everyone with respect — whether you were a player, a fan or part of the media.Read Sun Head of Sport Shaun Custis’ full opinion on Gareth Southgate’s England exit… More

  • in

    Ex-Arsenal cult icon Nicklas Bendtner in shock career change after taking up new hobby during Covid lockdown

    ARSENAL cult hero Nicklas Bendtner has launched his own gaming company.Bendtner, 36, rolled credits on his turbulent football career in 2019 and is now set for a completely different endeavour.Arsenal cult hero Nicklas Bendtner started his own gaming groupCredit: AFPBendtner spent nine turbulent years with ArsenalCredit: Getty – ContributorAccording to Esports Insider, the former striker created his own group that he calls Legendary Gaming Group.This comes after the ex-Denmark international spent the Covid-19 pandemic playing Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.Bendtner said, “My own role in the company will be an active one, but what the exact title will be is not 100% decided yet, as it also depends on what roles the other sports profiles coming in will have.”The ex-Arsenal ace propped up a website alongside Morten Jensen, Atle Stehouer, Stephen Shine, and Jonas Rosbech.Read More on ArsenalThe site says: “Legendary Gaming Group offers a premier esports experience, blending elite talent development, cutting-edge scouting, and thrilling events. “We collaborate with top brands, NGOs, and sponsors to create impactful partnerships. “Join us to elevate your gaming journey and be part of the future of esports innovation.”Bendtner joined Arsenal’s academy in 2004 from Kjobenhavns Boldklub at the age of 16.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe controversial forward earned a senior call-up in 2005 and went on to amass a total of 47 goals and 22 assists in 171 appearances with the Gunners.The Dane played for the likes of Birmingham, Sunderland and Juventus on loan during his nine-year stint with the North Londoners.Ex-Arsenal striker Bendtner shows off new look in shock appearance in Denmark World Cup 2022 squad announcement video Bendtner also played for Wolfsburg, Nottingham Forest, Rosenborg and Copenhagen before his early retirement at the age of 31. More

  • in

    Erik ten Hag breaks silence on Jadon Sancho after return to Man Utd squad following explosive bust-up last season

    ERIK TEN HAG has broken his silence on resolving his bust-up with Jadon Sancho – but refused to say if the winger has a future at Manchester United.Sancho, shipped out on loan to former club Borussia Dortmund in January, returned to full-time training at Carrington last week.United boss Ten Hag speaks on Jadon Sancho’s return for the first timeCredit: GettySancho returned to first team pre-season training session at Carrington last weekCredit: GettyThe 24-year-old and Ten Hag held positive talks last Wednesday – agreeing to draw a line under their past disputes.Sancho was permitted to return to training with United’s senior squad for the first time in 10 months.But he did not travel to Norway for the club’s first pre-season friendly against Rosenborg on Monday – where United suffered a shock 1-0 defeat.Speaking publicly for the first time since making up with Sancho, Ten Hag said their bust-up was now old news.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Dutchman said: “As we said, we’ve drawn the line.”Manchester United needs good players and Jadon is a good player. We have drawn that line and we move on.”But when quizzed on Sancho’s complete fresh start, Ten Hag would only say: “We’ve drawn the line. We move on.”The £73million star was made to train on his own after publicly lashing out at Ten Hag last season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe contradicted Ten Hag’s reasons for leaving him out of United’s matchday squad that lost 3-1 away to Arsenal last September.Ten Hag claimed Sancho was dropped as a result of poor training performances, but the winger argued he was being made a ‘scapegoat for a long time’.Man Utd coach reveals why Jadon Sancho refused to apologise to Ten Hag before exile that sparked Dortmund transferSancho then refused to apologise and subsequently spent the second half of last season on loan with his old German club.Dortmund did not follow through on their interest in re-signing him, despite Sancho helping them reach the Champions League final at Wembley.Ten Hag will hope that the reintroduction of first team stars will improve his side’s performances in pre-season.Sancho was one of six players left at home as United faced 22 shots in their defeat to Norwegian side Rosenborg.The Dutch boss was left frustrated despite utilising a young a team.He said: “We can talk and make good on everything that was bad, but I am not that guy. I have seen that this is not the standard for top football.”READ MORE SUN STORIESTen Hag made the expected sweeping changes for the second half, replacing all 10 outfield players with academy products.United are set to face Rangers at Murrayfield on Saturday before heading out to the United States to step up preparations for next season. More

  • in

    Premier League clubs’ pre-season fixtures and results: Arsenal, Man Utd, Liverpool and Chelsea’s schedules revealed

    THE new Premier League season is right around the corner as clubs start to put their plans in order ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.Manchester City will be looking to win the top flight for a record-extending fifth time in a row.Manchester City will be the defending champions once againCredit: GETTYMikel Arteta’s Arsenal came close to claiming their first Premier League title since the 2003/04 Invincible season but had to settle for second place despite running Pep Guardiola’s side to the very end.Ipswich Town, Southampton and Leicester City are the new boys for the coming season as they replace Burnley, Luton Town and Sheffield United.But what are their plans before the start of the 2024/25 Premier League season?Premier League pre-season fixtures and resultsAFC BournemouthREAD MORE IN PREMIER LEAGUE21 July: Wrexham v Bournemouth, Harder Stadium, Santa Barbara (00:00)25 July: Arsenal v Bournemouth, Dignity Health Sports Park, Los Angeles (03:30)4 August: Bournemouth v Rayo Vallecano, Vitality Stadium (15:00)10 August: Bournemouth v Girona, Vitality Stadium (17:15)Most read in FootballArsenal25 July: Arsenal v Bournemouth, Dignity Health Sports Park, Los Angeles (03:30)28 July: Arsenal v Manchester United, SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles (01:00)1 August: Arsenal v Liverpool, Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia (00:30)7 August: Arsenal v Bayer Leverkusen, Emirates Stadium (18:00)11 August: Arsenal v Lyon, Emirates Stadium (14:00)Aston Villa17 July: Walsall v Aston Villa, Bescot Stadium (19:30)20 July: Spartak Trnava v Aston Villa, Anton Malatinsky Stadium, Trnava (15:00)28 July: Columbus Crew v Aston Villa, Lower.com Field, Columbus (01:00)1 August: RB Leipzig v Aston Villa, Red Bull Arena, New Jersey (01:00)3 August: Club America v Aston Villa, Soldier Field, Chicago (22:30)7 August: Aston Villa v Athletic Bilbao, Bescot Stadium (19:30)10 August: Borussia Dortmund v Aston Villa, Signal Iduna Park (16:00)Brentford20 July: AFC Wimbledon v Brentford, Plough Lane (13:00)25 July: Benfica v Brentford, Estadio da Luz, Lisbon (20:00)30 July: Brentford v Estrela de Amadora (behind closed doors – 11:00)3 August: Watford v Brentford, Vicarage Road (15:00)9 August: Brentford v Wolfsburg, Gtech Community Stadium (19:45)Brighton24 July: Kashima Antlers v Brighton, National Stadium, Tokyo (11:00)28 July: Tokyo Verdy v Brighton, National Stadium, Tokyo (10:30)3 August: QPR v Brighton, Loftus Road (15:00)10 August: Brighton v Villareal, Amex Stadium (15:00)Chelsea25 July: Chelsea v Wrexham, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara (03:00)27 July: Chelsea v Celtic, Notre Dame Stadium, Indiana (21:00)1 August: Chelsea v Club America, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta (00:00)3 August: Chelsea v Manchester City, Ohio Stadium, Columbus (22:30)7 August: Chelsea v Real Madrid, Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte (00:00)11 August: Chelsea v Inter Milan, Stamford Bridge (15:00)Crystal Palace19 July: Crystal Palace v Charlton, Crystal Palace Academy (behind closed doors – 12:00)27 July: Crawley v Crystal Palace, Broadfield Stadium (12:30)1 August: Crystal Palace v Wolves, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, Annapolis (01:00)4 August: Crystal Palace v West Ham, Raymond James Stadium, Tampa (00:00)11 August: Crystal Palace v Nantes, Selhurst Park (15:00)Everton19 July: Sligo Rovers v Everton, The Showgrounds, Ireland (16:00)27 July: Salford City v Everton, Peninsula Stadium (15:00)30 July: Coventry City v Everton, Coventry Building Society Arena (19:45)3 August: Preston v Everton, Deepdale (15:00)10 August: Everton v Roma, Goodison Park (17:00)Fulham2 August: Benfica v Fulham, Estadio Algarve (20:00)10 August: Hoffenheim v Fulham, PreZero Arena, Sinsheim (16:00)Ipswich20 July: Shakhtar Donetsk v Ipswich, Sportzentrum Landskron (TBC)27 July: Ipswich v Fortuna Dusseldorf, Portman Road (15:00)2 August: Borussia Monchengladbach v Ipswich, ATS Sportpark (13:30)3 August: Hoffenheim v Ipswich, Kufstein Arena (12:30)Leicester City23 July: Shrewsbury v Leicester, Croud Meadow (19:45)26 July: Leicester v Palermo, SMH Group Stadium (19:00)3 August: Augsburg v Leicester, WWK Arena (14:30)10 August: Lens v Leicester, Stade Bollaert-Delelis (15:00)Liverpool27 July: Liverpool v Real Betis, Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh (00:30)1 August: Liverpool v Arsenal, Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia (00:30)4 August: Liverpool v Manchester United, Brice Stadium, Columbia (00:30)11 August: Liverpool v Sevilla, Anfield (15:00)Manchester City24 July: Manchester City v Celtic, Kenan Stadium, Chapel Hill (00:30)27 July: Manchester City v AC Milan, Yankee Stadium, New York, (23:00)31 July: Manchester City v Barcelona, Camping World Stadium, Orlando (00:00)3 August: Manchester City v Chelsea, Ohio Stadium, Columbus (22:30)10 August: Manchester City v Manchester United, Community Shield, Wembley (15:00)Manchester United15 July: Manchester United 0-1 Rosenborg, Lerkendal Stadion, Trondheim20 July: Manchester United v Rangers, Murrayfield, Edinburgh (16:00)28 July: Manchester United v Arsenal, SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles (01:00)1 August: Manchester United v Real Betis, Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego (05:00)4 August: Manchester United v Liverpool, Brice Stadium, Columbia (00:30)10 August: Manchester City v Manchester United, Community Shield, Wembley (15:00)Newcastle27 July: Hull v Newcastle, MKM Stadium (14:00)31 July: Urawa Red Diamonds v Newcastle, Saitama Stadium, Saitama (11:30)3 August: Yokohama F. Marinos v Newcastle, National Stadium, Tokyo (13:00)9 August: Newcastle v Girona, St James’ Park (19:30)10 August: Newcastle v Stade Brestois, St James’ Park, (16:00)Nottingham Forest13 July: Chesterfield 0-3 Nottingham Forest, SMH Group Stadium, Chesterfield19 July: Nottingham Forest v Sunderland, Pinatar Arena, Murcia (18:00)23 July: Nottingham Forest v Millwall, Pinatar Arena, Murcia (18:00)27 July: Nottingham Forest v Elche, Pinatar Arena, Murcia (10:00)2 August: Nottingham Forest v Villarreal, City Ground (20:00)8 August: Olympiakos v Nottingham Forest, Karaiskakis Stadium (19:00)Southampton19 July: Eastleigh v Southampton, Silverlake Stadium (19:00)24 July: Bordeaux v Southampton, (behind closed doors in Spain – 10:00)27 July: Montpellier v Southampton, (behind closed doors in Spain – 10:00)31 July: Oxford v Southampton, Kassam Stadium (19:30)3 August: Millwall v Southampton, The Den (13:00)Tottenham17 July: Hearts v Tottenham, Tynecastle (19:00)20 July: QPR v Tottenham, Loftus Road (15:00)27 July: Vissel Kobe v Tottenham, National Stadium in Tokyo (11:00)31 July: Team K League v Tottenham, Seoul World Cup Stadium (12:00)3 August: Bayern Munich v Tottenham, Seoul World Cup Stadium (12:00)10 August: Tottenham v Bayern Munich, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (17:30)West Ham15 July: Ferencvaros 2-2 West Ham, Sportstadion Langau, Kitzbuhel20 July: Dagenham and Redbridge v West Ham, Chigwell Construction Stadium (15:00)28 July: Wolves v West Ham, EverBank Stadium, Jacksonville (00:00)4 August: Crystal Palace v West Ham, Raymond James Stadium, Tampa (00:00)10 August: West Ham v Celta Vigo, London Stadium (15:00)Wolves28 July: Wolves v West Ham, EverBank Stadium, Jacksonville (00:00)1 August: Wolves v Crystal Palace, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, Annapolis (01:00)4 August: Wolves v RB Leipzig, Chase Stadium, Miami (00:30)READ MORE SUN STORIES10 August: Wolves v Rayo Vallecano, Molineux (15:00)When does the 2024/25 Premier League season start?The 2024/25 Premier League season will begin on Friday, August 16.Manchester United take on Fulham at 8pm BST to open the campaign.The season will run until Sunday, May 25 2025. More