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      Chelsea reach agreement to hire Enzo Maresca with Mauricio Pochettino’s successor handed mega-contract by Boehly and Co

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      ENZO MARESCA has agreed to become Chelsea’s new manager, according to reports.The 44-year-old succeeds Mauricio Pochettino, who left by mutual consent last week.Enzo Maresca has agreed to become Chelsea’s new managerCredit: GettyMauricio Pochettino left Stamford Bridge by mutual consent last weekCredit: GettyChelsea had considered the likes of Kieran McKenna, Roberto De Zerbi and Thomas Frank for the job.However, Maresca emerged as the overwhelming favourite over the weekend following his success with Leicester City.The Blues will pay Leicester £10million in compensation to formally complete the deal.It is understood Maresca will put pen to paper on a FIVE-YEAR deal – with the option of an extra year until 2030 – before getting to work on stamping his identity on the squad.Read More on FootballThe Italian took over at the King Power Stadium last summer and guided Leicester back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.He won 31 out of 46 Championship games during his only season with the Foxes.Before joining Leicester, Maresca worked for Manchester City as Pep Guardiola’s assistant.He played an important role in guiding the Sky Blues to their historic Treble.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMeet Pep Guardiola disciple Enzo MarescaEnzo Maresca is considered among the most exciting young coaches on the planet.
      Born in Italy in 1980, he managed to guide Leicester to the Championship title in his first season as Foxes boss.
      His management career started at Italian minnows Ascoli before he was snapped up by Man City in 2020 to manage their Elite Development Squad.
      He guided the youth team to the Premier League 2 title in his one season working for the Citizens – with Cole Palmer in the side.
      His first senior job was with Parma but he was sacked after just a few months after failing to impress.
      Despite the team playing in Serie B and Maresca having an impressive squad he was unable to get them on course for promotion.
      He returned to Man City and worked as one of Pep Guardiola’s assistants for the 2022/23 season as they won the Treble.
      He took over relegated Leicester last summer and made an immediate impact, with the Foxes winning the Championship title.
      Maresca showed his dedication to the job by living at the training ground for the first two months after his appointment.
      He’s considered something of a Pep disciple and has said: “For a coach, it’s important to have the mentality of a chess player.”
      During his playing career he played under Carlo Ancelotti and Marcello Lippi – and alongside ex-Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi.

      Leicester midfielder Harry Winks recently hailed Maresca as an “incredible” manager.He told Sky Sports: “He’s by far the best manager I’ve worked for. He’s incredible.Mauricio Pochettino LEAVES Chelsea despite promising end to season as Blues line up four potential new bosses”Everybody will say he’s going right to the top in terms of managerial stature. He’s got everything. He’s a great man manager.”He’s tactically incredible in some of the decisions that he tells us to do before the game and how he views the match is something I’ve never experienced before in football.”Leicester are considering West Brom boss Carlos Corberan as an option to replace Stamford Bridge-bound Maresca.The ex-Huddersfield manager guided West Brom to the play-offs this season despite not spending a single penny on new signings.Corberan’s men fell short, losing 3-1 on aggregate to eventual winners Southampton in their semi-final.However, the energetic Spaniard’s stock remains high and he is regarded as one of the most tactically astute managers in the Championship.Leicester will also have to replace the majority of their backroom staff.Maresca is set to take the five coaches he brought with him to the club down to West London.READ MORE SUN STORIESEx-Chelsea keeper Willy Caballero, who retired to take up the post last summer, is part of his staff.Also expected to make the move are Danny Walker, Michele De Bernardin, Marcos Alvarez and Javier Molina Caballero.Leicester fans won’t miss MarescaBy Graeme Bryce
      It’s fair to say most Leicester fans were not exactly pleading with Maresca to stay.
      OK, they were not queueing up and offering to drive him to Stamford Bridge.
      But there will not be too many tears shed or much wailing at the King Power either.
      The fans’ attitude to losing their incredibly successful boss could be summed up in a word: ‘Meh’.
      Maresca failed to win over the paying public who never really took to his patient, possession-based style of football.
      Having been brought up — some would say spoiled — by the swashbuckling title winners of 2016, with Jamie Vardy spearheading manager Claudio Ranieri’s shock champions, Maresca never really got off the ground at the King Power.
      So it will be interesting to see what Chelsea’s notoriously impatient fans make of Maresca’s ‘death by a thousand cuts’ style of play.
      It was not long before some of the old-school Leicester fans started moaning that Maresca’s patient, play-out-from-the-back style was becoming too boring to watch.
      During a 3-1 win over Swansea which left them ten points clear at the top, there were moans and groans coming from the stands amid cries of, ‘Get the ball forward’.
      Fans accused him of stubbornly sticking to his Plan A — even when it was not working — and claimed he was way too slow to make substitutions.
      But one thing Blues fans can look forward to is his man-management and his attention to detail.
      And the Foxes players also adored their manager.

      Maresca was Pep Guardiola’s No2 in the Treble-winning season at Manchester CityCredit: GettyChelsea paid £10m to Leicester in compensationCredit: GettyThe Foxes marched to the Championship titleCredit: PA More

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      Wayne Rooney reveals Man Utd legend ‘wouldn’t speak to you for months’ after dressing room fall-outs

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      WAYNE ROONEY revealed getting on the wrong side of Nemanja Vidic would leave you with “months” of silent treatment. Rooney reminisced about his time at Manchester United with former team-mate Gary Neville on The Overlap. Wayne Rooney joined Gary Neville on The OverlapThey revealed how Patrice Evra and a young Gerard Pique – at United from 2004–2008 – were the life of the changing rooms. Meanwhile, former Old Trafford captain Vidic was not one to mess with. Rooney said: “Patrice was always quite lively, a good character. I used to love when him and Vida were arguing. “And Vida was so stubborn, you fall out with him and he didn’t speak to you for months.” READ MORE ON MAN UTDNeville added: “He’d come in like he wanted to kill you every day.” Rooney replied: “Pique was mad as well. I remember him and Patrice had a little bit.” Pique left United with a Premier League and Champions League title to his name but he became a great with Barcelona. Whereas Rooney, Neville, Vidic and Evra were five-time Prem winners together while also lifting the Champions League. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSManaged by Sir Alex Ferguson, the group are considered one of the best teams of all time with Vidic a stalwart in the defence.But according to fellow Old Trafford icon Rio Ferdinand, his centre-back partner did not make a great first impression with Rooney. Wayne Rooney breaks silence after being named Plymouth manager and reveals plan to do something he’s never done beforeFerdinand revealed on the Filthy @ Five podcast: “I remember after one session, me and Wazza were walking around. “He said, ‘Who the f*** is this guy?’ He was terrible. Vidic and Evra signed in the same window and he (Rooney) was going, ‘The manager has f***ed it, he’s messed up, I don’t know what’s going on with the recruitment.'”In retirement, Rooney has moved into management and has taken over at Championship Plymouth after being axed by Birmingham in January.Evra has also taken coaching badges and returned to United’s youth set up to begin his newest career. Vidic has enjoyed punditry roles since hanging up his boots as well as Neville, who is a regular for Sky Sports and ITV. Nemanja Vidic with Rooney and Rio Ferdinand in 2012Credit: PA:Press AssociationPatrice Evra and Neville during a 2009 training sessionCredit: Getty More

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      Why Erik ten Hag could soon win Man Utd the Premier League title… if Sir Jim Ratcliffe changes his mind

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      IT is a truth universally acknowledged that ­Manchester United cannot possibly decide Erik ten Hag’s future on the basis of a single match.But why not?Erik ten Hag’s future is in doubtCredit: GettyThe Man Utd boss won the FA Cup at the weekendCredit: GettyWhy not, when that single match saw them win football’s grandest domestic knockout competition by defeating the best team on the planet, thanks to their manager’s tactical acumen.There is no doubt that Ten Hag would have been sacked had — as expected — United lost Saturday’s FA Cup final to Manchester City.But United did win 2-1 at ­Wembley. Ten Hag did outwit Pep Guardiola by setting up his side without a centre-forward.And United did look a ­half-decent team once they had a couple of fit first-choice central defenders — as the Dutchman always argued they would.Read More on Man UtdSo why shouldn’t Sir Jim ­Ratcliffe change his mind on the basis of all that?Isn’t winning silverware what football is about?The vast majority of United fans would have preferred a trophy to Champions League qualification, given a straight choice.And we cannot spend several months talking up the magic of the FA Cup, only to brand the identity of the winners as irrelevant come May.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSOf course, United’s campaign has been poor overall — a worst-ever eighth-place Premier League finish, a negative goal difference and finishing bottom of their Champions League group.United’s players admitted their season hadn’t been good enough in an unusual joint statement.Erik ten Hag in blunt three-word response as Man Utd boss is asked whether he’s been treated unfairlyThe managerial situation would be different if Ratcliffe, United’s new football supremo, had a clear vision for the club’s future, with a successor to Ten Hag identified and readied for arrival.Instead, Ratcliffe and Co have been sounding out every Tom, Dick and Harry — from Mauricio Pochettino to Kieran McKenna to Thomas Tuchel to Thomas Frank to Roberto De Zerbi.Gareth Southgate and Graham Potter are also highly-regarded among the collection of green-fingered executives currently on gardening leave at rival clubs before arriving at Old Trafford.Meanwhile, Ten Hag, with two trophies in as many seasons, is left swinging in the wind.There is no bus parade for Erik, just a long wait on a  sunbed for the likely arrival of the Spanish archer.Only Manchester United could manage to win a major trophy in impressive style and finish the weekend looking a complete ­shambles.But that is where we are thanks to Ratcliffe and Co managing to look simultaneously heartless and hopeless in their treatment of Ten Hag.There was no name-check for the manager in the Ineos billionaire’s triumphant post-final statement.Ten Hag was admirably stridentJust as there has been no backing for Ten Hag in the five months since Ratcliffe purchased a 27.7 per cent stake in United and took over their footballing operation.Ten Hag was admirably strident in his post-match ­comments after the final. He has taken a huge amount of flak all season, from ex-players in TV studios and the likes of me, so why not give some back?To paraphrase — if United don’t want him, he’ll go somewhere  else and win trophies as he’d always done; Roy Keane failed as a manager (a brave thing to say to Keane’s face) and the club was a mess when he arrived.All fair points, well made.And while no manager ever wants to rely on the sympathy vote, Ten Hag certainly gained the  sympathy of a vast swathe of United supporters this weekend — as a winner, who is being openly ­disrespected by his bosses.Sir Jim and his new regime were welcomed as liberating heroes by United fans in mid-season — just as anyone  lessening the influence of the Glazers would have been.Yet he has torched much of that goodwill with his shabby handling of Ten Hag’s future.The pros and cons of Ten Hag’s reign have been well argued.His first season was good, his second season was ravaged by an injury crisis, especially in defence.But the £85.5million signing of Antony has been a disaster, the handling of Jadon Sancho — who will contest Saturday’s Champions League final on loan at Borussia Dortmund — is an embarrassment, while United have too often lacked an attacking gameplan.Still, despite such a dismal league campaign and despite so many issues remaining within the squad, United have been presented with a chance to make a genuine challenge for the Premier League title before long.After his arrival, Ratcliffe made  a ballsy statement about wanting  to ‘knock City and Liverpool off their perch’, which was met with widespread derision.But the exit of Jurgen Klopp from Anfield, and Guardiola’s likely departure from the Etihad next summer, will allow the rest of  the Premier League’s wealthiest contenders to hold more realistic title ambitions.The opportunity is there for Ratcliffe as long as he identifies the right manager.And could that manager be  the bloke who has just won him the FA Cup?It’s starting to look like Sir Jim Ratcliffe doesn’t know what he’s doingBy Neil Custis
      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE looked more than a little shame-faced when he headed into Manchester United’s dressing room to congratulate his FA Cup winners.
      The plan had already been hatched ahead of Saturday’s 2-1 win over Manchester City . . .  and this was all rather awkward.
      It was a stunning performance from Ten Hag’s troops and United’s triumph over a team widely regarded as the best in the world will live long in the memory.
      It was also a personal triumph for the unassuming guy who had arrived at Old Trafford full of life and ideas to make United better — which in many ways he has.
      Having been dealt a dreadful hand with injuries in his second season, he tried to explain to Ratcliffe and his team just how much this has affected performances.
      But it seems Sir Jim hasn’t listened. Nor has he taken notice of the way Ten Hag  has carefully brought Saturday’s scorers  Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo into the first team — with spectacular results.
      Ratcliffe has fired out emails criticising  the state of an office, called the club museum ‘crap’ and withdrew travel and lunch benefits for United staff on FA Cup  final day to cut costs.
      There is early proof the new men overseeing United’s football department do not know what they are doing, not least in the way they deal with people . . .  including the most important one of all — the manager.
      Ratcliffe and his team seem to have  spoken to anyone able to set up Subbuteo.
      And everyone they have spoken to believes they have got the job.
      Read the full column from Neil Custis here

      North going south in PremAFTER Leeds’ defeat by Southampton in the Championship play-off final, there will be fewer northern clubs in the top flight next season than  at any time in English league football history.The Manchester clubs, Liverpool, Everton and Newcastle will be the only five northern sides — as opposed to 11 from the south and four Midlands clubs.Southampton won the Championship Play-Offs at the weekendCredit: GettyFormer top-flight regulars such as the Sheffield clubs, Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Blackburn, Burnley, Bolton, Stoke, Wigan and Hull have been wiped off the Premier League map.With northern clubs outside the three major footballing cities struggling to attract the wealthiest owners — and therefore the best players — there is little prospect of any ‘levelling up’ in football’s north-south divide.A step too Far for DanSPARE a thought for Daniel Farke, who is facing the sack at Leeds, despite accumulating 90 points and leading his team to third place and a narrow play-off final defeat.Especially given the career trajectories of the two managers who pipped him to promotion – Leicester’s Enzo Maresca is heading for Chelsea, while Ipswich’s Kieran McKenna attracted interest from the Stamford Bridge club as well as Manchester United and Brighton.And that’s without even mentioning relegated Burnley boss Vinny Kompany taking over at Bayern Munich.Grealish in the partySHOULD Jack Grealish make the England squad for the Euros? Of course he should.Not because Manchester City’s £100million man would get much game time.Jack Grealish was the life of Man City’s title partyCredit: SplashBut because, if Gareth Southgate’s men win the tournament, nobody would be more fun than Grealish on an open-top bus parade.READ MORE SUN STORIESLet him play MurrANDY MURRAY’S straight sets first-round French Open defeat against his fellow veteran Stan Wawrinka has increased calls for the three-time Grand Slam winner to call it a day.If Murray still enjoys playing professional tennis at the age of 37 and without any realistic hope of recapturing former glories, then that is his absolute right.Andy Murray was knocked out of the French OpenCredit: Alamy More

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      ‘If we got a two-year ban, is it worth it?’ – Why Chelsea may be better off PULLING OUT of the Conference League

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      CHELSEA might be better off pulling out of the Conference League next season.And one journalist has suggested the board may have a discussion on the subject after Man Utd’s shock FA Cup final win saw them downgraded from the Europa League.Chelsea were demoted from the Europa League to the Conference League at the weekendCredit: GettyBlues chief Todd Boehly has the option of withdrawing from the competitionCredit: GettyThe Blues were demoted to the Conference League following the Wembley clash.A decision will now have to be made on whether or not they decide to accept a spot in the competition.Should they choose to take the opportunity, Chelsea will have to comply with stricter Financial Fair Play rules.And football writer Matt Law stated back in April that he felt the Blues hierarchy may hold talks on the matter.Read More on ChelseaHe told the London is Blue podcast: “The Conference League, they have a decision to make over whether they’d enter it.“Because of the European FFP being different to the English PSR, the chances of breaching European FFP may not be worth taking for the very very miniscule amount of money you can make on playing in the Conference League for a year.“AC Milan. I think, did it one year [the Italians pulled out of the Europa League in the 2019/20 season]. “Chelsea will have a decision to make on that because European Financial Fair Play is harder to meet than PSR.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“You have to weigh up the risk and reward of ‘if we got a two-year ban, is it worth it to play in the Conference League or is it actually worth giving ourselves an extra year to get into a situation where we can get back into Europe, into a better competition, and not be at risk of getting a European ban?’“I don’t think there’s a question on the Europa League or Champions League. I think the Conference League would spark a discussion.”Mauricio Pochettino LEAVES Chelsea despite promising end to season as Blues line up four potential new bossesChelsea have spent around £1billion on player transfers over the last two years, meaning they are now at risk of breaching the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability Rules.If found guilty of a breach, they could receive a significant points deduction.Meet Pep Guardiola disciple Enzo MarescaEnzo Maresca is considered among the most exciting young coaches on the planet.
      Born in Italy in 1980, he managed to guide Leicester to the Championship title in his first season as Foxes boss.
      His management career started at Italian minnows Ascoli before he was snapped up by Man City in 2020 to manage their Elite Development Squad.
      He guided the youth team to the Premier League 2 title in his one season working for the Citizens – with Cole Palmer in the side.
      His first senior job was with Parma but he was sacked after just a few months after failing to impress.
      Despite the team playing in Serie B and Maresca having an impressive squad he was unable to get them on course for promotion.
      He returned to Man City and worked as one of Pep Guardiola’s assistants for the 2022/23 season as they won the Treble.
      He took over relegated Leicester last summer and made an immediate impact, with the Foxes winning the Championship title.
      Maresca showed his dedication to the job by living at the training ground for the first two months after his appointment.
      He’s considered something of a Pep disciple and has said: “For a coach, it’s important to have the mentality of a chess player.”
      During his playing career he played under Carlo Ancelotti and Marcello Lippi – and alongside ex-Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi.

      The Blues are currently on the verge of appointing a new manager following Mauricio Pochettino’s departure.Poch left Stamford Bridge by mutual consent last week despite having a positive end to the season.Leicester City boss Enzo Maresca is understood to be the frontrunner. More

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      Meet Enzo Maresca, from forgotten EFL youngster and working under Pep Guardiola to Chelsea’s top boss target

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      ENZO MARESCA has gone from forgotten Football League youngster to working under Pep Guardiola and now Chelsea’s top managerial target.The Blues have asked Leicester for permission to speak to their Championship-winning boss as they look for Mauricio Pochettino’s successor. Enzo Maresca led Leicester to the Championship titleCredit: RexMaresca was once Pep Guardiola’s No2 at Manchester CityCredit: EPAMaresca started his career at West BromCredit: GettyIt could bring Chelsea’s search for a new manager to a close with Maresca the latest in the ever-changing Stamford Bridge hotseat. But who is the 44-year-old Italian? Well, Maresca actually started his professional playing career at 18 with West Brom after coming through Cagliari’s youth system.That was despite not speaking any English when he first arrived in the West Midlands. READ MORE IN football In an interview with Manchester City, Maresca recalled: “When you move from, in my case Italy to England directly to Birmingham, you can adapt immediately to the language and to the country.“My English was not so good and also I learned a lot when I was there, though I struggled a bit at the beginning but after it worked quite well.” Maresca had two seasons with the Baggies before moving to Juventus in 2000 for what was a West Brom record £4.5million deal.He played under two of football’s managerial greats in Turin, in Carlo Ancelotti and Marcello Lippi.Most read in FootballMeet Pep Guardiola disciple Enzo MarescaEnzo Maresca is considered among the most exciting young coaches on the planet.

      Born in Italy in 1980, he managed to guide Leicester to the Championship title in his first season as Foxes boss.
      His management career started at Italian minnows Ascoli before he was snapped up by Man City in 2020 to manage their Elite Development Squad.
      He guided the youth team to the Premier League 2 title in his one season working for the Citizens – with Cole Palmer in the side.
      His first senior job was with Parma but he was sacked after just a few months after failing to impress.
      Despite the team playing in Serie B and Maresca having an impressive squad he was unable to get them on course for promotion.
      He returned to Man City and worked as one of Pep Guardiola’s assistants for the 2022/23 season as they won the Treble.
      He took over relegated Leicester last summer and made an immediate impact, with the Foxes winning the Championship title.
      Maresca showed his dedication to the job by living at the training ground for the first two months after his appointment.
      He’s considered something of a Pep disciple and has said: “For a coach, it’s important to have the mentality of a chess player.”
      During his playing career he played under Carlo Ancelotti and Marcello Lippi – and alongside ex-Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi.

      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMaresca told SunSport in September: “Ancelotti was just starting his career as a manager but you could see clearly how he wanted to coach. “He was so straight, honest and humble — and unbelievable in terms of relations with his players.Mauricio Pochettino LEAVES Chelsea despite promising end to season as Blues line up four potential new bosses“Lippi was much stronger but fantastic in terms of motivation.”Maresca bounced around Europe playing for Bologna, Piacenza, Fiorentina, Sevilla, Olympiacos, Málaga, Sampdoria and Palermo.He then ended his playing career in 2017 with Hellas Verona in Italy’s second division. Maresca had three years away before returning to football with City’s Elite Development Squad, winning the Premier League 2 in 2021. He also coached current Chelsea stars Cole Palmer and Romeo Lavia during his time at the Etihad. The tactician had a short spell in charge of Parma before going back to City in 2022 as Guardiola’s assistant. It gave Maresca the chance to learn from the Spanish legend up close and personal, as Mikel Arteta once did before taking the Arsenal job. Maresca joined Juventus from West BromCredit: GettyHe bounced around European clubs, including SevillaCredit: EPAMaresca had a spell with PalermoCredit: GettySo before long it was Maresca’s turn to take the leap of faith when Leicester – who had just been relegated from the Premier League – came knocking. He said at the time: “Coming to Leicester was an easy decision because our ideas are perfectly aligned. “They wanted to change the way they play and refresh things. And the most important thing is that they’re patient.“The club knows sometimes it’s not so quick to change things, they’re aware of that.“When the club is aware and patient, the only target is to realise what you want to realise. “The problem is when people start to get nervous, this can be a big problem.”City recruited assistant managers Carlos Vicens and Juanma Lillo after Guardiola gave his blessing for Maresca to leave.Maresca was once Pep Guardiola’s No2 at Manchester CityCredit: GettyJack Grealish speaking to Maresca in 2023Credit: GettyMaresca left City to become Leicester bossCredit: Getty“From the very first moment Pep knew that I really wanted to go on to be a manager,” Maresca told The Telegraph. “He knew that I think he is the best coach in the world and that I went there to help and work with him. “But he always encouraged me to keep progressing.”Maresca turned the Foxes into a possession-based side who regularly lined up with 4-3-3 or the occasional 4-2-3-1 while being known to play with inverted full-backs. His side went from strength to strength and ultimately pipped Ipswich to the title by just a point.But Maresca’s revolutionary football at the King Power came at the cost of top clubs suddenly taking notice. And for Chelsea, Maresca fits their criteria. Maresca speaking to SunSportCredit: Jamie McPhilimeyMaresca led Leicester to the Championship titleCredit: GettyIt was his first piece of silverware in EnglandCredit: GettyExperienced former Tottenham and PSG boss Pochettino left the club after just one season and a clear falling out with the board. So for the third time under co-owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali, they were seeking a permanent replacement. But the board were not out for a serial winner who would demand a say in the running of the club. Instead, they turned their attention to a young boss with fresh ideas who would do their part to turn things around of the field and leave the rest to the hierarchy. Kieran McKenna – whose Ipswich were just pipped by Maresca’s Leicester – was an early favourite. But Chelsea informed McKenna – a former United coach who is linked with replacing Erik ten Hag – that he was no longer being considered.Maresca became Chelsea’s No1 managerial targetCredit: RexBrentford’s Thomas Frank was another appreciated by the Blues board. But none made as bigger impact than Maresca, who is now closing in on a deal to take over at Chelsea. It will cost the West Londoners around £10million in compensation but the board will feel it is money well spent. They have been encouraged by how Guardiola’s protege Arteta turned Arsenal into title contenders. And Maresca faces an equally challenging task following Chelsea’s underwhelming sixth-placed finish. Pochettino lasted a season, Graham Potter just over half a year and Thomas Tuchel just four months working under Boehly and Eghbali. Now it is just a matter of time until Maresca becomes the latest to try and take Chelsea back to their trophy-laden glory days. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe is to be offered a three-year deal – a mark of the Blues’ commitment to make the appointment part of a long-term plan. And Chelsea hope to wrap the deal up in just a matter of days. More

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      ‘Please don’t play that at matches next season’, beg Luton fans after Coldplay reveal new song for Hatters at festival

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      COLDPLAY paid tribute to Luton Town with a new song at the weekend – but some fans were far from happy about it.The band headlined BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend on Sunday at Stockwood Park in Luton.Coldplay singer Chris Martin dedicated a song to Luton while performing at Radio 1s Big WeekendCredit: GettyFans had a mixed response to the tuneTo close the festival, frontman Chris Martin took centre stage to sing a new song dedicated to the town titled ‘Orange’ – the colour of Luton’s home kit.Hatters fans had initially wanted Coldplay to change the lyrics to the song ‘Yellow’, which is a colour synonymous with the club’s arch rivals Watford.But instead, Martin sung: “It’s hard to be a football fan here in Luton town. Sometimes you do the best you can, still you find you’re going down.”We didn’t win all our matches, we didn’t win the Cup.Read More on Football”But when you get knocked down in Luton, you always get back up.”The official Luton Town X account shared a clip of the song online.A post also read: “Coldplay just said they love us 😁.”Some fans loved the tribute, with one person commenting: “RELEASE THE SONG.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnother wrote: “That’s a new club song right there.”While a third said: “Thank you Coldplay!”Devastated Luton boss Rob Edwards left in TEARS as West Ham loss leaves club all but relegated from Premier LeagueHowever, others were not so complimentary, with one person saying: “Please don’t put that on ever at one of our matches next season. It’s absolutely tragic.”Another added: “This is quite possibly one of the most horrendous things I’ve ever seen.”While another commented: “This is absolutely tragic and embarrassing.”Luton were relegated back to the Championship earlier this month after finishing 18th in the Premier League table. More

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      Erik ten Hag LIVE: Man Utd review into manager on NOW, Pochettino talks, defender sold for £5m – latest

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      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE could be forced into a dramatic U-turn on Erik ten Hag because of Manchester United fans.Supporters of the club have made it clear they want the Dutchman – who is subject to an ongoing review – to stay after he led the side to a second trophy in two years, beating Man City to the FA Cup on Saturday.Meanwhile, United have reportedly held talks with Mauricio Pochettino and Thomas Frank – although it is unclear if this took place before or after the cup victory at Wembley.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollow all the latest news, moves and completed deals belowMcKenna ‘set to sign new Ipswich deal’
      Kieran Mckenna could sensationally be set to stay at Ipswich as he edges closer to a new deal, reports suggest.
      According to The Athletic, McKenna will end speculation on his future by committing to a new long-term contract at Ipswich.
      The Northern Irishman has led the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions.
      Consequently, he has become highly coveted by a number of Premier League outfits who are either without a manager or are considering their options.
      Copy linkCopiedTen Hag’s record
      Sir Jim Ratcliffe looked more than a little shame-faced when he headed into Manchester United’s dressing room to congratulate his FA Cup winners.
      Before Saturday’s victory reports were certain that Ratcliffe and co were going to sach Erik ten Hag.
      But after the Pep Guardiola blunder, the Ineo group have been very quiet on the Dutchman’s future.
      Ten Hag has won the Red Devils two trophies in two seasons. Most Prem clubs would be delighted to say that they have achieved this too.
      Erik ten Hag’s Man Utd recordHere is a look at Erik ten Hag’s record in charge of Manchester United.
      Games: 114
      Wins: 68
      Draws: 15
      Losses: 31
      Goals scored: 207
      Goals conceded: 156
      Points per game: 1.92
      Honours: EFL Cup x1 (2023), FA Cup x1 (2024)

      Copy linkCopiedGuehi chase
      Arsenal face serious competition from Man Utd for the signature of Marc Guehi, according to reports.
      A report on Team Talk claims the Red Devils have made the Crystal Palace defender a priority signing this summer.
      The Gunners have tracked Guehi for two years and could add to their defence in the summer.
      Guehi has been picked by Gareth Southgate for England’s Euro 2024 squad.
      Copy linkCopiedDe Zerbi joins FIVE man shortlist
      Ex-Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi has emerged as a potential candidate to succeed Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, according to The Mail.
      The report claimed United officials sounded out De Zerbi via intermediaries last week.
      The Italian has since been linked with a move to Chelsea, Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
      With the managerial merry-go-round continuing to spin, Man Utd have also added him to a five-man shortlist in case Ten Hag departs.
      Credit: getty
      Copy linkCopiedBruno on Ten Hag
      Skipper Bruno Fernandes backed his boss who is set to be sacked from Man Utd despite winning the FA Cup 2-1 against local rivals Man City on Saturday.
      When quizzed on what Ten Hag had got right tactically, Fernandes told ITV: “Everything. He prepares every game well. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t.
      “I think you could see it was about being compact and making pressure between the lines.”
      Credit: getty
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd ‘could be RELEGATED to Conference League’
      Manchester United face being relegated to the Europa Conference League despite their FA Cup final triumph, reports suggest.
      Sir Jim Ratcliffe has bought a 27.7 per cent stake at the Red Devils and made an £88.7m purchase of Ligue 1 side Nice in 2019.
      According to L’Equipe, Ineos’ stake has come with a plan to invest a further £245m for infrastructure works which would take their ownership to more than 30 per cent.
      And it may cause problems for the Old Trafford outfit under Uefa’s multi-club ownership rules.
      Passing this threshold would put Ineos in violation of ownership rules and force one of the teams to be relegated to the Conference League.
      Article 5.01 b. of the Uefa regulations states no individual “may simultaneously be involved, either directly or indirectly, in any capacity whatsoever in the management, administration and/or sporting performance of more than one club participating in a UEFA club competition.”
      They have updated it this season to say a club that is replaced in one competition “may still be admitted to another UEFA club competition (i.e. in descending order: UEFA Europa League or UEFA Conference League) to which the relevant national association has access”.

      Copy linkCopiedFrank vs Poch
      According to a report by The Telegraph, Manchester United have “held talks” with the representatives of Brentford boss Thomas Frank and newly unemployed Mauricio Pochettino.
      Both have been linked to replacing Erik ten Hag at old Trafford if the Dutchman is sacked despite winning the FA Cup on Saturday.
      United are going to conduct an end-of-season review this week ahead of making a final decision on the Dutchman’s future.
      Copy linkCopiedTen Hag ‘believes he could still be sacked’
      Erik ten Hag “believes he could still be sacked” despite leading the club to FA Cup glory on Saturday, according to ESPN.
      United are set to make a season review this week and the Dutchman’s future will not be decided until that has concluded.
      Ten Hag has been under immense pressure in recent weeks after the Red Devils had their worst Premier League finish yet but an FA Cup win could lead him to stay at Old Trafford.
      Credit: alamy
      Copy linkCopiedTen Hag’s future
      Manchester United are yet to confirm Erik ten Hag’s future at the club.
      Despite winning the FA Cup final on Saturday reports last week confirmed the Dutchman will still head out the exit door.
      And at his post-match press conference at Wembley, he said: “if they don’t want me any more then I go anywhere else to win trophies”.
      “I am in a project and we are exactly where we want to be,” Ten Hag bristled. “We are on our way to constructing a team for the future.
      “I will go with ups and downs. When I took over we were in a mess at United.
      “The team is developing, the team is winning and at the end of the day it is about winning trophies and the team also plays to an identity.”
      Copy linkCopiedMcKenna is still in the running 
      Kieran McKenna is still in the running to take over from Erik ten Hag.
      The Ipswich man is no longer in contention for the Chelsea job, according to The Athletic.
      Chelsea look to announce their new manager this week.
      With Leicester City’s Enzo Maresca, Brentford’s Thomas Frank and former Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi in a three-horse race for the leading role at Stamford Bridge.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd’s open letter signed off
      The letter continued: “We know how much this club means to so many people — in Manchester and around the world. The backing you have given to us, even during times when we fell short of the standards that we set for ourselves, has been unbelievable.
      “We understand the sacrifices that you have to make to show this level of support. It does not go unnoticed or unappreciated. We know this season overall has not been good enough and we make no excuses. But we ended it in the best way possible, celebrating a trophy all together.
      “We want more days like yesterday. We are excited for the future here. There is so much that we have to achieve together. We will fight to bring Manchester United the success that this special club deserves.”
      It then signed off with: “Thank you for your unrivalled support. The 2023/24 Manchester United squad.”
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd’s open letter continued
      The emotional letter read: “To every Manchester United fan, we all know that this club is special. 
      “Yesterday’s game was yet another reminder of that. As we fought to win the FA Cup, the incredible atmosphere you generated inside Wembley helped push us over the line.
      “Celebrating all together was beautiful. Fans, staff, players — all united as one. Those memories will live with us forever. 
      “It was a further reminder that with your support behind us, and the United badge on our chests, we can achieve great things.
      “You can be sure that we feel immense pride in representing our football club. This shared passion will drive us forward together, back to where this club belongs.”
      Credit: Alamy
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd’s open letter to fans
      Erik ten Hag and Manchester United’s squad penned an emotional open letter to fans after their FA Cup triumph.
      And they admitted that this season was “not good enough” despite talking up the club’s “exciting future”.
      Ten Hag, who looked set to be sacked, led his team to a brilliant display to deny Premier League champions Man City a double, double as Utd won 2-1 at Wembley.
      They defied all the speculation over the Dutchman’s job to take the lead on half hour when Alejandro Garnacho, 19, pounced on a defensive mix-up between Stefan Ortega and Josko Gvardiol.
      Copy linkCopiedUnited do first piece of business
      Manchester United have completed their first sale of the summer.
      The Red Devils confirmed the departure of left-back Alvaro Fernandez yesterday.
      Benfica have completed the £5million capture of the 21-year-old after triggering the buy option in his loan.
      It is understood the deal includes both a buy-back and sell-on clause for United.
      Fernandez’s exit comes just hours after United’s FA Cup triumph at Wembley Stadium.
      Credit: Reuters
      Copy linkCopiedUtd legend wants new home
      WAYNE Rooney is house-hunting in Britain’s costliest coastal hotspot in the West Country, sources say.
      The England and Man United great, 38, and wife Coleen have been eyeing properties in and around the posh Devon resort of Salcombe.
      Roo, axed as Birmingham City manager in January, is the new boss of Championship side Plymouth Argyle.
      Salcombe, about 25 miles to the east of Plymouth, is a haven for sailors, yachties and surfers and is in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
      Homes there average about £1.1million and this month it was named Britain’s most expensive coastal spot.
      Mum-of-four Coleen, 38, is said to be keen on having a second family home by the coast — although the family’s Cheshire mansion would remain their principal base as the boys are enrolled in schools there.
      Copy linkCopiedRatcliffe comment
      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE looked more than a little shame-faced when he headed into Manchester United’s dressing room to congratulate his FA Cup winners.
      A journalist in Wembley’s mixed zone area shouted after him as to whether Erik ten Hag would be in charge of United next week.
      There were no smiles or laughs in return — instead, right-hand man Sir Dave ­Brailsford ushered Ratcliffe away from the naughty questioner.
      It was reminiscent of Mr Burns and Smithers from The Simpsons.
      Because the plan had already been hatched ahead of Saturday’s 2-1 win over Manchester City…  and this was all rather awkward.
      Read Neil Custis’ view on United’s dilemma in sacking Ten Hag.

      Copy linkCopiedMaguire pokes fun at Leeds
      HARRY MAGUIRE brutally took aim at Leeds United with a cheeky Instagram post following their play-off final heartbreak.
      As if the heartbreak of a fall at the final hurdle wasn’t enough for Leeds fans, they were then trolled online by England star Maguire.
      The centre-back posted a sly dig at the Yorkshire club on his Instagram story.
      Maguire posted a photo of Southampton fans celebrating their promotion alongside the caption: “Hope everyone is having a fantastic Sunday”.
      Being a Man Utd player, Maguire will be well aware of the long-standing rivalry between Leeds and the Red Devils.

      Copy linkCopiedGuehi chase
      Arsenal face serious competition from Man Utd for the signature of Marc Guehi, according to reports.
      A report on Team Talk claims the Red Devils have made the Crystal Palace defender a priority signing this summer.
      The Gunners have tracked Guehi for two years and could add to their defence in the summer.
      Guehi has been picked by Gareth Southgate for England’s Euro 2024 squad.
      Copy linkCopiedGreenwood’s future
      Mason Greenwood released a 52-word statement on his future as Getafe fans begged him to stay with a new chant.
      Greenwood’s future remains unclear as he enters the final year of his United contract.
      But the forward sent a message to fans as he posted a statement on social media.
      It read: “Incredibly grateful to the Getafe family and fans for an amazing season.
      “Thank you for making me feel welcomed and one of your own. I enjoyed every second, alongside my teammates and club.
      “A bitter sweet ending, but it was a pleasure to play for you, I wish you all the best.”
      Copy linkCopiedPep Exit
      Erik ten Hag is not the only manager whose future is now up in the air.
      Man City boss Pep Guardiola is expected to leave the club when his contract runs out in June 2025.
      The club have enjoyed a dominant period under Guardiola – winning six Premier League titles in eight years – but now face huge uncertainty.
      Not only because of Pep’s imminent exit but the 115 charges that hang over them.
      Copy linkCopiedFirst bit of business
      Alvaro Fernandez has left Manchester United with the club completing their first bit of transfer business for the season.
      Fernandez, 21, never made a senior appearance for United having been signed from the Real Madrid academy at 17.
      He previously spent time on loan Preston and Granada before moving to Benfica in January – he will join the Portuguese giants on a permanent deal for £5million.
      Copy linkCopiedPoch and Frank Talks
      Man Utd have reportedly held talks with Thomas Frank and Mauricio Pochettino over the manager’s role.
      The Telegraph report does not clarify when the talks were held, however, and it is unclear if this was before or after the FA Cup final – which may have forced Sir Jim Ratcliffe into a rethink over the future of Erik ten Hag.
      United also held talks with Kieran McKenna last week – but again, this was before Ten Hag won a second trophy in two seasons.
      Copy linkCopiedSquad send open letter
      Man Utd players have sent an open letter after the FA Cup win and the end of the season.
      It read: “To every Manchester United fan, we all know that this club is special. Yesterday’s game was yet another reminder of that.
      “As we fought to win the FA Cup, the incredible atmosphere you generated inside Wembley helped push us over the line. Celebrating all together was beautiful. Fans, staff, players — all united as one.
      “those memories will live with us forever. It was a further reminder that with your support behind us, and the United badge on our chests, we can achieve great things.
      “You can be sure that we feel immense pride in representing our football club. This shared passion will drive us forward together, back to where this club belongs.
      “We know how much this club means to so many people — in Manchester and around the world. The backing you have given to us, even during times when we fell short of the standards that we set for ourselves, has been unbelievable.
      “We understand the sacrifices that you have to make to show this level of support. It does not go unnoticed or unappreciated. W
      “e know this season overall has not been good enough and we make no excuses. But we ended it in the best way possible, celebrating a trophy all together. We want more days like yesterday.
      “We are excited for the future here. There is so much that we have to achieve together.
      “We will fight to bring Manchester United the success that this special club deserves. Thank you for your unrivalled support.
      “The 2023/24 Manchester United squad.”
      Copy linkCopied’Amazing’
      Veteran defender Jonny Evans also wants Ten Hag to keep his job, revealing: “He’s been amazing for me, I can only thank him for that.
      “I have a good relationship with him, I hope he stays.”
      Asked how all the players would feel if Ten Hag is axed, Evans, 36, added: “I don’t know. You’ll have to ask everyone that.
      “Since I came back in the summer he’s had no problems trusting in me.
      “You want that from the manager, to show that belief in you. He did that.”
      Copy linkCopiedFans to save Ten Hag?
      Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been rattled by fan power as Manchester United delay a public announcement on Erik ten Hag’s future, writes Neil Custis.
      New part-owner Ratcliffe had decided to replace the Dutch boss – with Kieran McKenna, Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel, Gareth Southgate, Thomas Frank and Graham Potter all in the frame.
      But United supporters’ vociferous support for Ten Hag in the wake of Saturday’s stunning 2-1 FA Cup Final victory over champions Manchester City has left Ratcliffe and his Ineos chiefs in a spin.
      Copy linkCopied More

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      Watch scary moment Jack Grealish nearly FALLS OFF Man City title parade bus TWICE as he’s caught by team-mates

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      JACK GREALISH nearly took a tumble as he was saved from falling during Manchester City’s open-top bus parade on Sunday.The Cityzens were denied a double, double 24 hours earlier after they were beaten 2-1 by Man United in the FA Cup Final.Jack Grealish suffered two scares during Man City’s title-winning trophy paradeCredit: GettyThe star was in the party mood dancing away on the top of the bus last nightAs the bus jolted forward, he took a tumble but was saved by Jeremy DokuHe was also saved from taking a tumble a second time by team-mate RodriCredit: https://x.com/centregoalsDespite that, Pep Guardiola’s side still made history by becoming the first team to win the title four years in a row after they defeated West Ham 3-1 on the final day to pip rivals Arsenal.And City’s squad and staff were keen to celebrate their latest Premier League crown by taking the trophy on tour across the city in front of thousands of their fans.Just like the scenes we witnessed 12 months ago amid their treble-winning exploits, it was England star Grealish, 28, who was the star of the show.He famously enjoyed a three-day bender ahead of last year’s title parade before featuring in an iconic photo on top of the bus.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut this time the experience was a whole lot scarier for the fun-loving attacker as he narrowly escaped complete disaster TWICE.Numerous clips went viral on social media of Grealish dancing with his hands in the air as the players took in the adulation from supporters.However, after being a stop, the bus suddenly moved forward and nearly sent Grealish flying off it.Fortunately, winger Jeremy Doku managed to quickly catch him and guide him back safely.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut it seems that the star had not learned his lesson as another clip later surfaced of him having another narrow escape.This one was shot from a supporter on the ground and showed Grealish and Rodri standing up singing along with fans on top of the bus.Champs Manchester City refused to let the weather rain on their parade yesterday ­during an open-top bus victory tourBoth men were taken by surprise when the bus jolted forwards again but this time the fast-reacting Spaniard Rodri managed to stop Grealish from falling by sticking an arm across his team-mate.Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne were both also spotted enjoying themselves during yesterday’s parade.While Footballer of the Year Phil Foden hailed another “special season” at the Etihad.He said: “It’s been a special season. Nobody has done it before, it’s an unbelievable season.“It’s the hunger inside me. We’ve got great players, we want to win more next season.”Meanwhile, Grealish was named in Gareth Southgate’s preliminary Euro 2024 squad despite barely featuring in City’s run-in.The £100m man featured for just 10 minutes of City’s five games in May and was an unused sub during the FA Cup Final.However, his boss has backed him to bounce back after he produced just three goals and the same amount of assists.Guardiola said: “He will be back.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He’s struggled this season and Jeremy has made an incredible step forward as everyone has seen in the last games.“But Jack will be back at the level of last season, I’m pretty sure.”Man City’s five key moments this seasonA look at the five key moments in Man City’s title winning campaign…

      Luton 1 – 2 Man City: City bounce back from a run of four games without a win to kick-start their unbeaten run.
      Newcastle 2 – 3 Man City: Kevin De Bruyne returns from injury to come off the bench and inspire a late turnaround against the Magpies.
      Man City 3 – 1 Man Utd: Phil Foden puts on a masterclass as City lay down a marker on their title ambitions and breeze past their local rivals in the process.
      Man City 0 – 0 Arsenal: A goalless draw that, although disappointing, meant City were still keeping pace with the teams around them and could maintain their spot in the title race. A loss could have put Arsenal out of sight of the Cityzens.
      Man City 4 – 1 Aston Villa: Following consecutive draws against title rivals Arsenal and Liverpool, City bounce back with a thumping of Unai Emery’s high-flying Villa to keep the pressure on the Gunners. More