Premier League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 188 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Tottenham star Pedro Porro will donate part of wages to help clean up flood-hit Valencia

      by

      TOTTENHAM star Pedro Porro will donate part of his salary to help with the clean-up of flood-hit Valencia.Spain is in mourning after more than 200 people were killed in the catastrophe, which began on Tuesday following a period of intense rainfall.Pedro Porro will donate part of his salary to the Valencia relief fundCredit: AlamyFloods have devastated ValenciaCredit: AFPThe horrific weather conditions have caused a huge amount of damage to the areaCredit: EPAIt was the worst flood to hit the country for decades which saw bridges collapse and nearby towns covered in thick mud.Spanish international Porro, who comes from humble beginnings himself, said he would be back in his homeland now helping with the tidy-up if his football schedule allowed.Instead the 25-year-old is offering up some of his wages to go towards any resources needed to restore the area.Porro, speaking after playing in Spurs’ 4-1 win over Aston Villa on Sunday, said: “First of all, I just want to say that, well, for a Spaniard, today, for all Spaniards, it’s a sad day.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“I think we’ve had three, four, five days of terrible suffering. I can’t even imagine what it’s like for everyone involved in Valencia.“And, as I posted on social media, I want to dedicate this victory to them.”Porro wrote a message on Instagram after the thumping win over top-four rivals Aston Villa that read: “Big result. I want to dedicate today’s win to all those who are currently suffering in Valencia at this extremely difficult time. You are in all of our prayers”, together with a black-coloured heart emoji.Spurs and Villa’s players all wore black armbands during the game in tribute to the victims of the flood, which totalled a tragic 217.Most read in FootballAsked what it has been like for him watching on from England: “There’s a sense of helplessness.“Helplessness about not being there, because I know what it’s like to be ‘in the mud’.Mum sobs as she begs for help to find daughter missing for 4 days in Valencia floods as 10k troops deployed & 213 dead“I’d be the first one there to help, to show up, but I’m in London, I have competitions, I can’t.“I’d say it’s helplessness because I’d like to help.“But I’ve already spoken to my agents, and I’m going to donate part of my salary to cover whatever they need, to buy shovels, food, especially anything they need.”Porro joined Spurs from Sporting Lisbon for £40million, after an initial loan spell, in 2023.He arrived from Sporting Lisbon, where he worked under incoming Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim.Porro praised Amorim for how he boosted his confidence after he joined the Portuguese side from Manchester City – and for how the 39-year-old’s 3-4-3 system suited his skillset.The five-cap La Roja full-back said: “He’s a great coach. I worked with him for three years.“He’s coming to one of the best stages in the world, which is the Premier League. I wish him the best and hope things go as well as possible for him.“He helped me a lot with confidence. I think the confidence he gave me was fundamental for me, and that’s why, when I arrived at Sporting, things went well for me.“The style of play also suited me well.”Several players shared their condolences and sent well-wishes to those affected by the floods in Spain over the weekend.Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti claimed on Monday that fixtures around the country should not have taken place.He explained: “I think the whole football world has been quite clear on this.”Nobody wanted to play and that seemed to me to be the right decision. We are not the ones in charge and we have to respect the decision of those in charge.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It’s very difficult to prepare for a match like this because you have it in your head all the time. What happened was unbelievable and terrible.”It’s been a difficult week — it’s a difficult week because the atmosphere is not normal, but nothing to do with the Ballon d’Or, which has already happened and we congratulate the winners… The sadness is not there, but in what is happening here in Spain.”A red warning is in place for Valencia with orange and yellow warnings along the east coast More

    • 225 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea legend Michael Essien takes latest step in football management journey as he continues to rise to top

      by

      CHELSEA legend Michael Essien has taken the next step on his journey into football management by completing his UEFA course.The 41-year-old expressed a desire to continue working in football after hanging up his boots over six years ago.Michael Essien has completed his UEFA management courseCredit: X @MichaelEssienHe took up a coaching role with Danish side Nordsjaelland in 2020 and was tasked with helping young players transition into the first team.While working for the club, Essien has continued to collect his coaching badges.The Premier League icon recently completed his UEFA Certificate in Football Management course, meaning he is now prepared to take the next step in his coaching career.Essien shared his achievement on social media last week.READ MORE ON CHELSEAHe wrote: “Finally done with my UEFA certificate in football management journey.”Thanks all for the help. I keep learning about the beautiful game.”In a recent interview with Joy Sports, Essien revealed he initially had no interest in becoming a coach when he was a player.However, his mindset quickly changed when he retired.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe explained: “When I was playing, if you asked me if I wanted to go into coaching, I would say no.”But as time passed, I started thinking: I’ve been in football all my life; why not take up coaching and acquire my license to still stay in football and be around the players?”Chelsea ratings vs Man UtdEssien joined Chelsea in a £24.4million transfer from Lyon in 2005 and went on to make 256 appearances.He also won the Champions League, two Premier League titles, three FA Cups and the League Cup during his time at Stamford Bridge.Bastia, Real Madrid, AC Milan, Panathinaikos, Persib Bandung and Sabail are among the other clubs he played for.Essien was also capped 59 times by the Ghana national team as a player. More

    • 188 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Edu considering joining Arsenal’s Premier League rivals and have salary TRIPLED as next move revealed

      by

      EDU GASPAR has been lined up to join Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’ footballing empire.The Greek billionaire, who also owns Olympiacos and Rio Ave, is ready to treble Edu’s Arsenal wage and give him a role as chief executive across all clubs.Edu is set to leave as Arsenal as sporting directorCredit: Getty – ContributorEdu is considering coordinating the network of clubs controlled by Evangelos MarinakisCredit: GettyThat would see Edu running the likes of Nottingham Forest, Olympiacos and Rio AveCredit: GettyEdu has been a transformational presence at the Emirates but is thought to be attracted by the increased power the role on offer would give.Marinakis has been pursuing Edu since the summer, with talks having reopened in recent weeks. The 46-year-old had been in Brazil last month due to personal reasons but returned to London last week.The former Gunners midfielder is manager Mikel Arteta’s strongest ally at the club, having stuck by him through a troubled start at times to take Arsenal back to the top.Arteta and Edu have worked together to transform the culture and playing squad in North London.Players learning the news of Edu’s departure on Monday morning were said to be shocked by the decision.The Brazilian, part of Arsenal’s Invincibles squad under Arsene Wenger, has developed a close relationship with a number of the current players.Arsenal must now decide whether to directly replace Edu or restructure their current leadership team, spearheaded on the footballing side by Richard Garlick and Tim Lewis.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPremier League title rivals Manchester City are making their own change upstairs this summer, with director of football Txiki Begiristain leaving at the end of the season.They have already moved to land sought after Hugo Viana from Portuguese club Sporting Lisbon.’Summer recruitment A lot of things happening’, says Arsenal transfer chief Edu live on TNT Sports as Gooners go wild Marinakis has enjoyed immense success in charge of Forest, who are currently third in the Prem table, and Olympiacos, who became the first ever Greek club to win a European trophy last season. More

    • 213 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Who is Edu’s wife Paula and how long has she been married to the Arsenal sporting director?

      by

      EDU Gaspar was part of the Gunners’ invincibles side that went unbeaten throughout the whole 2003-4 season.The legend, who returned to the club’s backroom staff in 2019 and has been influential in Arsenal’s resurgence as title contenders, is set to quit — here’s everything we know about his supportive wife Paula.Edu Gaspar with his wife PaulaCredit: https://www.instagram.com/edugaspar/?hl=enThe couple shares three children togetherCredit: https://www.instagram.com/edugaspar/?hl=enWhile the reasons behind Edu’s decision remain unclear, on November 4, 2024, the news broke that the highly-rated sporting director has decided to walk away from his role.Following a reshuffle of key positions, he has been in talks with the club’s hierarchy.Just two days earlier reports emerged that Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis was hoping to bring Edu in as a sort-of CEO specialising in international football across all his endeavours. Edu, who won 15 caps for Brazil, is married to Paula Gaspar.read more on eduWhile the footballing man’s wife prefers to keep out of the public spotlight, here’s what we can piece together about her life and relationship with Edu from the information available.MarriageWhile the couple kept their wedding out of the news, we know that they tied the know on June 12, 1993.This is because two decades later Edu posted a social media tribute on their anniversary.He wrote on Instagram: “Today we are celebrating 20 years of marriage!!!”Most read in FootballChildrenEdu and Paula have three children together — a son named Luigi and a daughter named Maria, as well as a third child, whose details remain private.Luigi was under contract at Arsenal and spent three years in the Gunners’ youth system, playing for the U18s and U23s.Mikel Arteta debunks claims referees and VAR have conspiracy against Arsenal after flurry of controversial decisions But rather than waiting to see if he could break into the first team, he decided to move on and continue his career away from the club.With his contract expiring in 2022, he opted against signing a new deal under his dad’s guidance.Instead he made the short move to Watford, whose training ground borders Arsenal’s in London Colney. Edu said: “That’s it son! Your first stint in Europe you took on expertly.“Adaptation to the country, adaptation to a new game model, language, new teammates, new coaches and new ‘difficulties’.“Always grow! And you’ve grown a lot in these three years. Congratulations!!! Be proud of it all!Edu’s son Luigi Gaspar was on the books at Arsenal for three years before quittingCredit: Getty“Congratulations son!!! Now… fly!!! I love you !!! We will always be together at every step.”Their daughter Maria works as a fashion model, per her Instagram account.She is also somewhat of a fan, having been seen around Emirates Stadium during multiple Gunners matches.Paula is also often seen supporting her husband and children at various events and football matches.Social media presenceAs the wife of a prominent figure in football, Paula has occasionally been in the public eye, particularly through her social media.She has a private Instagram account with 10.4k followers as of November 2024, where she previously shared glimpses of their family life.Her bio on the platform reads: “Mother of 3, in love with my family.”Paula Gaspar sticking her middle finger up at an Arsenal supporter who criticised EduProtective naturePaula has been a supportive presence in Edu’s life throughout his career in football, both as a player and his later roles in management and administration.She has also shown her protective side when it comes to her family.In August 2021, she responded to an angry Arsenal supporter who confronted Edu about the club’s transfer activities.Tempers flared around the Emirates flared as the Gunners were outclassed by London rivals Chelsea, with the capacity crowd watching Mikel Arteta’s side limp to a 2-0 loss.One supporter decided to confront Edu by getting out of his seat and berating him from the steps — a confrontation that was later posted on X/Twitter.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile Edu managed to remain composed throughout the abuse, Paula could not contain her frustration.After the fan had finished angrily making his point, Gaspar put her middle finger up at him as frustrations boiled over, demonstrating her willingness to stand up for her husband in the face of criticism. More

    • 175 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Fans savagely troll ‘imposters’ Arsenal after amazing stat about Premier League top six emerges

      by

      ARSENAL were trolled after a stunning stat emerged regarding the Premier League’s top six.Nottingham Forest are proving to be this season’s surprise package in the Prem as they climbed up to third place in the table after a flying start under Nuno Espirito Santo.Arsenal were trolled after a stunning stat emerged regarding the Premier League’s top sixCredit: ReutersThe Premier League’s top six all have something in common – except ArsenalForest have won five out of their first 10 league matches – losing only once along the way – and are only six points away from leaders Liverpool.The Tricky Trees are also just four points behind reigning champions Manchester City and second place.Chelsea, Arsenal and Aston Villa complete the top six in fourth, fifth and sixth place respectively.That means the current top-six teams in the English top flight now count a total of 12 European Cups between them.Read More on FootballLiverpool won the prestigious honour six times, City finally lifted old Big Ears in 2023, Forest enjoyed a back-to-back triumph, Chelsea have done it twice and Villa conquered the European Cup in 1982 before it was rebranded as the Champions League in 1992.However, some fans decided to poke a bit of fun at Arsenal’s expense as they are the only ones to have never won Europe’s elite honour, even though they came close in 2006 when they made it to the final.One fan tweeted: “Look at those “s****y reds” sneaking in and disrupting the top six. Fans and media saying “they have no right to be there”.”Another commented: “Spot out the imposter.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA third wrote: “I know an imposter when I see one.”This fan said: “Remove Arsenal and it’s still the same.”Edu’s exit is a huge loss for Mikel Arteta and Arsenal will feel very different without him, says SunSport’s Jack RosserAnd that one stated: “With Arsenal having zero in there.”Nevertheless, it is important to remember that although Arsenal never won the Champions League they did in fact win the Uefa Cup Winners’ Cup in 1994. More

    • 213 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      All of Edu’s 35 Arsenal transfers ranked including only ONE striker with chief set to quit club

      by

      EDU GASPAR is set to leave Arsenal after spending over £800million on THIRTY FIVE players in just half a decade.The Brazilian sporting director first arrived at the Emirates as technical director in 2019 but will walk away from his role after a reshuffle of key positions among the club’s hierarchy.Edu Gaspar is set to leave Arsenal after signing 35 players in half a decadeCredit: GettyThe Brazilian chief has spent over £800million transforming Arsenal into title contendersCredit: GettyInvincibles legend Edu, who won two titles as an Arsenal player, helped Mikel Arteta offload big names like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mesut Ozil.In their place, he signed a variety of top stars who have since transformed the Gunners into title contenders.There have been plenty of incredible arrivals in north London during the last five years.Ben White, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalahes have established themselves as three of the league’s top defenders.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhile Declan Rice has gone from strength to strength after becoming Arsenal’s club-record signing at £105million.Further up the pitch, Martin Odegaard has undoubtedly been a super hit and is now club captain.While Leandro Trossard continues to surprise in a variety of versatile roles.Edu has also brought in some good squad players, giving Arsenal some much-needed depth.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFan favourites like Thomas Partey, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber can operate in a variety of positions.While arrivals including Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko undoubtedly played big roles transforming Arsenal’s fortunes.Arsenal vs Newcastle: Player RatingsSunSport has ranked all 35 of Edu’s signings at the EmiratesCredit: GettySome of Edu’s deals have been big hits, while others failed to impressCredit: GettyHowever, Edu has also made a number of shocking signings too.In fact, it arguably took him FOURTEEN buys to finally get one right – when he scooped teenage Saliba from Saint-Etienne.Former Chelsea pair Willian and David Luiz both fell well short of expectations.Nuno Tavares, Albert Sambi Lokonga and Runar Alex Runarsson also looked out of their depth in Arsenal shirts.While Nicolas Pepe, who cost a club record £72m, barely made an impact — just like current loanee Raheem Sterling.But just who is Arsenal’s best signing? And who takes the unwanted crown for worst?SunSport’s Anthony Chapman ranks all 35 of Edu’s signings below… as well as his best and worst transfer XIs.EDU’S 35 SIGNINGS RANKED35. Nicolas Pepe (£72m)34. Willian (Free)33. David Luiz (£8m)32. Runar Alex Runarsson (£2m)31. Mat Ryan (Loan)30. Fabio Vieira (£34m)29. Neto (Loan)28. Marquinhos (£3m)27. Nuno Tavares (£8m)26. Matt Turner (£5m)25. Cedric Soares (Free)24. Albert Sambi Lokonga (£17m)Arsenal’s title challenging team last season was sculpted by EduCredit: GettyWilliam Saliba is rated as Edu’s best signingCredit: Getty23. Pablo Mari (£5m)22. Dani Ceballos (Loan)21. Raheem Sterling (Loan)20. Jakub Kiwior (£17m)19. Jorginho (£12m)18. Riccardo Calafiori (£42m)17. Kieran Tierney (£25m)16. Takehiro Tomiyasu (£20m)15. Mikel Merino (£28m)14. Aaron Ramsdale (£24m)13. Oleksandr Zinchenko (£30m)12. Gabriel Jesus (£45m)11. Kai Havertz (£65m)10. Jurrien Timber (£38m)9. Gabriel Martinelli (£6m)8. David Raya (£27m)7. Leandro Trossard (£20m)6. Thomas Partey (£45m)5. Ben White (£50m)4. Gabriel Magalhaes (£27m)3. Declan Rice (£105m)2. William Saliba (£27m)READ MORE SUN STORIES1. Martin Odegaard (£30m)TOTAL FEES SPENT: £819m More

    • 188 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea legend Frank Lampard lined up for shock new job at Jose Mourinho’s former club

      by

      CHELSEA legend Frank Lampard has been touted as a potential candidate to take over as Roma manager.Lampard, 46, has been a free agent ever since 2023 when he underwent a short stint as the Blues’ caretaker boss.Chelsea legend Frank Lampard has been linked with the Roma jobCredit: GettyLampard could be managing the same club as Jose Mourinho coachedCredit: GettyLampard and Mourinho enjoyed tremendous success together at ChelseaCredit: GettyAnd according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the ex-Everton boss could return to management by joining Roma.The Giallorossi may soon be needing a new manager after Sunday’s 3-2 loss at Verona.Ivan Juric took over as manager in September when he replaced club legend Daniele De Rossi at the helm.But Juric has come under fire after losing four out of his first 10 matches, of which he also won four.Read More on FootballAnd now Italian sources claim Roma are already looking at potential new candidates to take over at the dugout, with Paulo Sousa appearing as a favourite.In fact, the Serie A giants have contacted Sousa as well as other candidates, such as ex-Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini and Leicester legend Claudio Ranieri.And now Lampard has also emerged as a potential successor to Juric.The same source claims the Friedkin Group, who own a majority stake at the club, were advised to consider the former England international by people close to them at Everton.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Friedkins are set to complete a takeover of the Toffees, where the midfield great worked as manager for a year until his departure in 2023.Roma have yet to make a final decision but Lampard is “certainly” considered.Fans spot Frank Lampard’s reaction to Roy Keane fuming at being called ‘Cardi B’ for outfit choice at Man Utd vs ChelseaThat would see the former City star taking over the same club his legendary boss Jose Mourinho managed.Lampard and Mourinho enjoyed tremendous success together at Chelsea as they won two Premier League titles, one FA Cup and two League Cups.The Special One also stood out at the Olimpico as he won the first ever Europa Conference League trophy with the Roman giants in 2022. More

    • 213 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal chief Edu is LEAVING after crisis talks with club hierarchy in major blow to Mikel Arteta

      by

      MIKEL ARTETA has been dealt a major blow with close ally and Arsenal chief Edu Gaspar set to QUIT the club.The highly-rated sporting director has helped transform the Gunners from has-beens into title contenders.Mikel Arteta has been dealt a blow with Edu Gaspar set to quit ArsenalCredit: PAThe Brazilian has been behind Arsenal’s brilliant recent signingsCredit: GettyArsenal have become title challengers under Edu’s watchCredit: GettyBut Edu’s time at the Emirates is coming to an end.He has been in talks with the club’s hierarchy after a reshuffle of key positions.And although his reasons remain unclear, Edu has decided to walk away from his backroom role.SunSport understands he is in line to take up a new role in charge of Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’ stable of clubs, which also include Olymipiacos in Greece and Rio Ave in Portugal.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA similar position has been taken up by Jurgen Klopp with Red Bull, with the ex-Liverpool boss now their Global Head of Soccer.And Edu could TRIPLE his current Arsenal salary by becoming Marinakis’ go-to man at the head of his football empire.A former two-time title winner and Arsenal Invincibles champion, Edu returned to the club in 2019 – initially as technical director – before helping Arteta clear the decks.Big names like captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mesut Ozil were shown the door.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWhile new fan favourites including Martin Odegaard, William Saliba and Declan Rice have been signed during his tenure.As a result, Arsenal have finished the last two seasons as runners-up to Manchester City in the Premier League title race.Arsenal vs Newcastle: Player RatingsEdu’s exit comes on the back of a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Newcastle at St James’ Park on Saturday.The Gunners’ next match comes on Wednesday in the Champions League against Inter Milan.And boss Arteta will face questions over Edu’s exit at tomorrow’s press conference.Fans reacted quickly online to the news of his departure.One said: “The downfall of Arsenal begins.”Another declared: “I hate changes like this.”READ MORE SUN STORIESOne noted: “Heads starting to roll at Arsenal.”Another added: “Arteta could be the next to go.”Edu Gaspar’s Arsenal transfersSince 2019:David LuizNicolas PepeCedric SoaresPablo MariRunar RunarssonDani CeballosNuno TavaresAlbert Sambi LokongaFabio VieiraMarquinhosMatt TurnerWilliam SalibaKieran TierneyGabriel MartinelliThomas ParteyGabriel MagalhaesMartin OdegaardAaron RamsdaleTakehiro TomiyasuGabriel JesusOleksandr ZinchenkoLeandro TrossardJakub KiwiorDeclan RiceKai HavertzJurrien TimberDavid RayaRiccardo CalafioriMikel MerinoRaheem Sterling More