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      Roberto De Zerbi ‘NOT ruled out by Chelsea’ as they work through four-man shortlist to replace Pochettino

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      CHELSEA have not ruled Roberto De Zerbi out as a potential candidate to replace Mauricio Pochettino in the dugout ahead of next term.The Blues are looking for a new manager after Pochettino suddenly left Stamford Bridge after only a season in charge despite leading the club to European qualification.Chelsea have not yet ruled Roberto De Zerbi out as replacement for Mauricio PochettinoCredit: EPAWho could be the next Chelsea manager?

      HERE are the seven names in the running to replace Mauricio Pochettino after his shock exit from Chelsea.
      Roberto De Zerbi
      The Italian left Brighton at the end of the season after a year and a half in charge. He was linked with a host of top jobs earlier in the campaign but a difficult run of results saw him fall out of contention for the likes of Liverpool. De Zerbi’s attacking, front-foot style would be popular at Stamford Bridge.
      Kieran McKenna
      The former Manchester United assistant has led Ipswich to back-to-back promotions from League One to the Premier League. That has seen his stock shoot through the roof and he may be tempted to jump ship for a big job.
      Enzo Maresca
      Maresca was Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City and has worked wonders at Leicester, settling the ship to send the Foxes back to the Premier League at the first attempt. Appointing a Pep disciple has turned Arsenal into title contenders, so it could work for Chelsea too.
      Hansi Flick
      Flick was one of football’s most in-demand managers after winning the Champions League with Bayern Munich. But it all went wrong in his next role becoming the first manager ever to be sacked by Germany. Now he’s ready to return and could be a smart move for the Blues
      Sebastian Hoeness
      Chelsea fans may not have heard of him, but Hoeness is Germany’s next big thing. Hoeness has transformed Stuttgart from relegation candidates to the second best team in the Bundesliga, finishing above Bayern Munich. Only invincible Bayer Leverkusen got in the way of a miracle.
      Michel
      Michel Sanchez has worked wonders with little Girona in Spain. The minnows were right in the LaLiga title race at Christmas before watching Real Madrid shoot into the distance. But they ran illustrious Catalan neighbours Barcelona all the way for second and are guaranteed a spot on the Champions League. Reports in Spain say that has caught Chelsea’s attention.
      Jose Mourinho
      Still adored by fans at Stamford Bridge, who never warmed to former Spurs boss Pochettino, Mourinho would be a popular pick. Winner of three Premier League with the Blues across two topsy-turvy spells, could he be the man to take Chelsea back to the top?

      According to The Telegraph, the West Londoners have narrowed their search down to four candidates.That includes Leicester’s Enzo Maresca, Ipswich’s Kieran McKenna and Brentford’s Thomas Frank.There has been no confirmation whether or not De Zerbi, 44, is officially the fourth unnamed coach.However, the same source claims the Italian tactician has not yet been chalked off.Read More on FootballNevertheless, the ex-Brighton boss is currently considered to be an “outlier”.If Chelsea signed De Zerbi then the Seagulls could still be due around £5million in compensation, which is much cheaper than the £15m he would have cost if he was still working at the Amex Stadium.The ex-Shakhtar Donetsk manager would have to demonstrate that he could work within Chelsea’s club structure and cooperate with sporting directors Paul Winstanley as well as Laurence Stewart.This comes after De Zerbi expressed frustration in the Brighton model last season while many within football view him as a challenging character.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSNevertheless, there is still no clear favourite to replace Pochettino at the helm.However, Maresca, McKenna and Frank all have internal support within Chelsea.Who could be Chelsea’s next boss after Pochettino exit?Director of recruitment and talent Joe Shields worked with Maresca at Manchester City when the Italian was Pep Guardiola’s assistant manager at a time when Cole Palmer played under him.McKenna’s stunning progress at Ipswich has been tracked by the Premier League giants for some time.And Chelsea’s incoming set-piece specialist Bernardo Cueva worked closely with Frank at Brentford.But De Zerbi is well known by director of global recruitment Sam Jewell as they worked together at Brighton.Moises Caicedo also played under him last season whereas Mykhailo Mudryk and the Italian head coach go way back during their time together at Shakhtar.Chelsea are beyond a laughing stockBy Andy Dillon
      CHELSEA’S longest serving manager under the club’s new owners has left by mutual consent.
      The fact that Mauricio Pochettino lasted only 325 days underlines what a basket case of a club it has become.
      You might expect a manager to lose his job after five games WITHOUT a win but only Chelsea could lose theirs after five wins on the spin.
      When the supporters wrote an open letter to chairman Todd Boehly and his sidekick Behdad Eghbali in March, they expressed fears that their beloved Chelsea was becoming a ‘laughing stock on and off the pitch’.
      It is way beyond that now with the departure of the manager who finally looked to be getting a tune out of a squad branded ‘£1billion bottle jobs’ just over two months ago as they crashed to defeat against Liverpool’s youth team in the Carabao Cup Final.
      Read Andy Dillon’s full take on the sacking of Pochettino and what it means here. More

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      Luton release 14 PLAYERS including long-serving star in ruthless squad cull after relegation from Premier League

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      LUTON TOWN have put together a brutal clearout following their Premier League relegation that has seen a total of 14 players leaving Kenilworth Road.Luton finished 18th in the Prem table with six points separating them from safety and will be returning to the Championship just a year after their stunning promotion.Long-serving star Dan Potts has left Luton Town after the club’s relegationCredit: GettyLuke Berry will be leaving Luton Town after his contract runs outCredit: AlamyThe Hatters’ manager Rob Edwards will have to do it all over again but will be without long-serving duo Dan Potts and Luke Berry this time around.Potts, 30, has been with the club since 2015 while Berry, 31, joined in 2017Both veterans will be leaving once their contracts expire on June 30.They will be joined by Fred Onyedinma, Elliot Thorpe and Admiral Muskwe, whose deals also run out next month.Read More on FootballMeanwhile, Josh Allen, Tobias Braney, Oliver Camis, Archie Heron, Millar Matthews-Lewis and Ben Tompkins have been released.And Will Houghton, Max Scott and Marcus Warren will be leaving the club’s academy.Issa Kabore and Albert Sambi Lokonga will be returning to their parent clubs at Manchester City and Arsenal respectively at the end of their loan stints. Meanwhile, Allan Campbell, Ryan Giles, Tom Holmes, John McAtee, Aribim Pepple, Dion Pereira, Joe Taylor, Jack Walton and Louie Watson’s loan deals away will expire next month.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSLuton continue talks over a new contract with Gabe Osho, whose deal runs out next month, after the relegated club exercised its option to extend James Shea’s stint.Extended terms have been accepted by Under-21 stars Jack Bateson, Josh Odell-Bature, Jacob Pinnington and Dominic Dos Santos Martins.Huge pitch invasion as Man City win title despite players begging supporters not to and Gary Neville calls it a ‘shame’And from the Under-18s, Claude Kayibanda and Jack Lorentzen-Jones have accepted their offers of professional contracts, while Tyrell Giwa’s scholarship has been extended for a third year.Under-16 aces Archie Shepherd, Benedict Benagr, Charlie Booth, Christian Chigozie, Harry Fox, Kyron Roberts-Edema, Leon Routh, Lucas Thomas and Samuel Hincapie Alfonso have been offered first-year scholarships.Luton Town’s released listHere’s who Luton Town have released after their Premier League relegation:

      Dan Potts
      Luke Berry
      Fred Onyedinma
      Elliot Thorpe
      Admiral Muskwe
      Josh Allen
      Tobias Braney
      Oliver Camis
      Archie Heron
      Millar Matthews-Lewis
      Ben Tompkins
      Will Houghton
      Max Scott
      Marcus Warren More

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      Erik Ten Hag LIVE: Man Utd to SACK manager after FA Cup final, Pochettino lined up as a replacement – latest updates

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are set to sack Erik ten Hag after their FA Cup final against noisy neighbours City.And the Red Devils are said to be lining up Mauricio Pochettino to potentially replace him.Chelsea parted ways with the Argentine on Tuesday evening and now he could be in line for a move to Old Trafford.Elsewhere, Marcus Rashford has been dramatically snubbed by Gareth Southgate for England’s preliminary Euro 2024 sqaud.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollow all the latest news, moves and completed deals belowErik ten Hag on the rumours
      When asked about the intense speculation over his future at his pre-FA Cup final press conference Erik ten Hag was quick to change the topic.
      He said: “I have nothing to say.
      “I am just focusing on the job I have to do and that is first to win the game on Saturday and then keep going in the project. Every game I want to win and that is it.”
      Then questioned on what his plans were for next season Ten Hag added: “Yes of course but my focus is on Saturday. I only think about this game.
      “But every season we review and we will see where we are in the project and what we have to change. There are some very good things, with players coming up and developing.”
      Copy linkCopiedThe rise of McKenna
      Kieran McKenna, once Jose Mourinho’s assistant at Manchester United has become one of the most sought-after managers in England.
      The 38-year-old Londoner retired from playing at 22 due to injury to pursue a managerial career having started with Northern Irish clubs before joining Tottenham.
      Despite not making a senior appearance he excelled in coaching roles at Tottenham and Manchester United’s Under-18s.
      After leading Ipswich Town to the top-flight in back-to-back promotions McKenna now faces his biggest managerial test – ensuring their Premier League survival or joining a larger club.

      Copy linkCopiedNext Man United manager odds
      There hasn’t been too much change in the odds today, but Thomas Tuchel’s have shortened amid reports he is the ‘frontrunner’ should Erik ten Hag be sacked.
      Kieran Mckenna is the favourite, however.
      Here are the recent odds from Bet365:

      Kieran McKenna 11/8
      Mauricio Pochettino 7/4
      Thomas Tuchel 9/2
      Roberto De Zerbi 5/1
      Gareth Southgate 8/1
      Thomas Frank 12/1

      Copy linkCopiedFIVE-man shortlist drawn up
      A five-man shortlist has been drawn up in the search for Erik ten Hag’s replacement.
      Bayern Munich’s Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, Brentford’s Thomas Frank and Kieran McKenna are also said to be on their radar.
      The Ipswich boss is also fielding interest from Brighton and Chelsea as he rethinks about his future.
      Newly unemployed Mauricio Pochettino is also another contender as he is reportedly keen to move to the Old Trafford hotseat.

      Copy linkCopiedTen Hag set to be sacked
      Erik ten Hag is heading for the Old Trafford exit door after losing the faith of Manchester United fans.
      The Man Utd boss is set to be sacked after the FA Cup final against Manchester City tomorrow.
      The embarrassing 4-0 defeat to Palace, despite beating Championship side ­Coventry in the FA Cup semi-final, was the last straw for many.

      Copy linkCopiedSancho should push to stay at Dortmund
      Former Borussia Dortmund midfielder Paul Lambert has suggested the culture at Old Trafford could be a factor behind Jadon Sancho not fitting in at Manchester United.
      Lambert told Betway: “At Dortmund, Sancho has gone into a really good dressing room, a good culture with good guys and he gets respect.
      “At Man Utd it could have been an absolute nightmare for him. He may have not liked the way it was or it might not have been what he thought it would be. 
      “Being back at Dortmund, with some of the players that were there when he left.
      “He’s playing with one of the biggest clubs in European football without a shadow of doubt.
      “Why would he want to go back to United? He could be a Champions League winner.”
      Copy linkCopied‘You can’t talk about Manchester’ 
      Gary Neville has slammed Manchester City super-fan and Oasis star Noel Gallagher for commenting on Manchester when he lives in London.
      Gallagher has been spotted at the Etihad but stuck out like a sore thumb when he was caught on camera refusing to do the Poznan on Sunday.
      And United legend Neville decided to have a pop at the Rock ‘n’ Roll star.
      Neville, 49, told the BBC: “He’s been a big part of Manchester’s history but he lives in London.
      “Do you know what I mean, Noel? Don’t talk about Man… you live in London.
      “You live in Knightsbridge, or wherever it is. Hampstead, wherever he lives, you know what I mean. You can’t start talking about Manchester.
      “25 years he’s not been here.
      “He comes once a year for that trophy parade! I saw him on Sunday, actually.”

      Copy linkCopiedBruno Fernandes drops hint he could QUIT Man Utd
      Bruno Fernandes has dropped a huge hint that he could leave Manchester United amid the club’s turmoil.
      he insists Man Utd’s standards must be set much higher for him to stay.
      In a piece for The Players’ Tribune, Fernandes wrote: “I just want my expectations to fit with the expectations of the club.
      “If you go talk to any fan, they will tell you the same thing. We want to compete for the league.
      “We want to be playing Champions League football. We want to be in cup finals. That is the standard.
      “That is what I want. That is what you all deserve.”

      Copy linkCopiedTen Hag handed Man Utd lifeline
      Man Utd have reportedly been angered by suggestions that they have met with Erik ten Hag’s replacements.
      Reports claimed on Thursday Omar Berrada – who takes over as chief executive on July 13 – and technical director Jason Wilcox held talks with Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna earlier this month.
      According to HITC, the club chiefs have been doing their own due diligence and background checks but such claims anger them as they have not met with anyone.
      Copy linkCopiedMarks the spot
      Marcus Rashford modelled for the Euro 2024 Three Lions sponsors M&S – despite not making the cut in Gareth Southgate’s squad.
      But it did not stop him from posing in a fashion shoot alongside Arsenal keeper Aaron Ramsdale and Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher – both also picked.
      Rashford modelled in a matching two piece beige jacket and trousers combination with a cream jumper on underneath worth £150 in total.
      Explaining his decision not to pick the forward, Southgate said: “These are of course difficult calls. You are talking about players that are very important players.
      “With Marcus, in that area of the pitch, I feel that other players have had better seasons, it’s as simple as that.”
      Rashford responded online: “Wishing Gareth and the boys all the best for the up and coming tournament.”

      Copy linkCopiedMaguire sends Luke a message
      Harry Maguire put his Wembley heartbreak aside to lead the well-wishes to Manchester United-supporting darts sensation Luke Littler.
      Maguire will miss the FA Cup final against Man City tomorrow due to injury.
      But he was lifted up to see the 17-year-old win the Premier League darts last night.
      After playing darts with each other in February the United defender jokingly put on his Instagram, “Ever since I shown him how to play he’s not done too bad.”
      Credit: X/SkySportspl
      Copy linkCopiedStam of approval
      Manchester United legend Jaap Stam is being lined up for a shock return to Old Trafford.
      According to TuttoMercatoWeb, United chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been in regular touch with Stam.
      And Ratcliffe wants the legendary defender to work as a link between the club and technical staff.
      However, the Dutchman has denied the claims despite telling the Daily Mail: “If they want me to help them in any way as well, then I’m always ready to do so.”

      Copy linkCopiedThomas Tuchel situation
      Thomas Tuchel is the leading candidate for the job at Manchester United.
      According to The Guardian, Tuchel is the “frontrunner” for the manager’s role at United.
      It’s said that the departing Bayern Munich boss fits the profile of manager that the Red Devils are searching for thanks to his vast experience and tactical nous.
      SunSport understands the Manchester giants have not made contact with the German tactician about the role.

      Copy linkCopiedTwo to tangle
      Chelsea are ready to muscle in on Manchester United’s bid to lure one of Argentina’s most promising young defenders.
      The Blues are looking to snare Boca Juniors star Aaron Anselmino from under the noses of United, who have been scouting the 19-year-old for many months.
      The centre-back was first linked with the Red Devils and AC Milan earlier this year.
      And rumours of the Manchester giants’ interest appeared to firm up in February when TyC Sports named the Argentine on a list of four talents the club was tracking.
      Boca updated the teenager’s terms to include a $20million (£16m) release clause in January.
      A bidding war between Prem clubs would suit the Argentinean giants down to the ground and journalist Fafi Perez has claimed Chelsea are Anselmino’s latest suitors.
      Perez told DSports Radio listeners that United remain the most interested club in the uncapped teenager.

      Copy linkCopiedWayne Rooney’s next role
      Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney is closing in on a return to management with Plymouth.
      Rooney was last in the dugout at Birmingham before he was sacked in January.
      United’s record goalscorer had a horror time at St Andrew’s, having won just two of his 15 games in charge.
      But the 38-year-old is now set for a comeback with the Pilgrims, who narrowly avoided relegation from the Championship on a thrilling last day of the season.
      The EFL club are on the lookout for a new boss after the sacking of Ian Foster.
      Plymouth chief Neil Dewsnip is driving the interest in the Everton great, according to The Telegraph.

      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedMore from Ten Hag
      Manchester United boss is determined to do his best and land his team their second trophy in two years.
      I came here to win trophies. Saturday is the next opportunity.
      We earned this opportunity as a team and now we have to go for it.
      In the last ten years, not so many trophies in this club but we have an opportunity to win two trophies in two years.Erik ten Hag
      Copy linkCopiedKieran McKenna bidding war
      Manchester United are facing a possible bidding war with Chelsea over Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna.
      That is according to Sky Sports, who claim both Premier League giants are prioritising McKenna.
      The Blues parted ways with Mauricio Pochettino while United boss Erik ten Hag is facing the sack at Old Trafford.
      The same source claims the Red Devils’ chiefs met with the Northern Irish tactician’s representatives in their bid to bring him back to Manchester this summer.
      The 38-year-old previously worked with United as Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s assistant coach.
      Copy linkCopiedErik ten Hag’s project
      Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has been has been speaking recently with club chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe about a new project, which points to him possibly staying at Old Trafford.
      There are some very good things, players coming through and on Saturday we have a big opportunity to win the next trophy.
      After every season you review it and we will see where we are in the project, things we have to change.Erik ten Hag
      Copy linkCopiedDiogo Dalot statement
      Diogo Dalot wants this to be the last time Manchester United enter a cup final as the underdogs.
      You shouldn’t be the underdog when you’re at Manchester United.
      We want to be the team in the future that everyone thinks is going to win automatically.
      So for me it gives me energy, because I don’t want to be in that position.
      I’ve been at this club for a while now and I want to feel that feeling of dominance in every game and in every competition we play, everywhere we go.Diogo Dalot
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedThe final word
      Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag refused to be drawn on his future after being asked if Saturday’s FA Cup final will be his last game in charge.
      Mauricio Pochettino, Graham Potter and Thomas Tuchel are all candidates to take Ten Hag’ job.
      I have nothing to say.
      I’m just focusing on the job I have to do and that is first win the game on Saturday and then the project, to keep going with the project.Erik ten Hag

      Copy linkCopiedDiogo Dalot promise
      Diogo Dalot has told Manchester United suffering supporters – we owe you the FA Cup.
      I’m going to be really honest with you, after that game against [Crystal] Palace, the way the fans were supporting us, it was almost like a feeling that we didn’t deserve that.
      After you concede four goals against Palace, a 4-0 defeat, they were still there, pushing us, after the awful game we had.
      This is the type of thing that shows why these fans are special. Every time there is a Man Utd game, they always think something special will happen, and that’s the beautiful thing about this club.
      There are always expecting something special so we’re going into the game on Saturday to try to give them a special afternoon and realise this special feeling that they always feel is going to happen.Diogo Dalot
      Copy linkCopiedMaguire out of FA Cup final
      Manchester United ace Harry Maguire is out of the FA Cup Final with injury.
      Erik ten Hag looks set to gamble with Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane at centre-back against Manchester City despite their lack of game time.
      Maguire has not played since April 27th when he suffered an unspecified muscle injury.
      Argentine World Cup winner Martinez has started just one game since February while Varane’s last start was when he played the first half against Chelsea at the end of last month.
      The injury to Maguire is not believed to be bad enough to keep him out of Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the up and coming Euros.
      Copy linkCopiedWhy Rashford was snubbed
      England boss Gareth Southgate revealed his decision to axe Manchester United ace Marcus Rashford from his Euro 2024 squad wasn’t easy.
      These are of course difficult calls.
      You are talking about players that are very important players.
      With Marcus, in that area of the pitch, I feel that other players have had better seasons, it’s as simple as that.Gareth Southgate
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd target Guehi
      Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi is wanted by Manchester United this summer.
      According to The Guardian, Guehi would cost United around £60million.
      The centre-back is part of England’s provisional squad for Euro 2024 after returning from a knee injury.
      The 23-year-old has two years remaining on his contract at Selhurst Park.
      Copy linkCopiedPochettino could replace Ten Hag
      Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the strong favourite to become Manchester United’s next manager after his shock departure from Chelsea.
      United boss Erik ten Hag’s job might not be safe even if his team beats Manchester City on Saturday in the FA Cup final.
      According to The Times, Pochettino would be interested in talking to the Red Devils if Ten Hag was sacked.
      Departing Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel, Ipswich’s Kieran McKenna and ex-Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi are also well placed for the Old Trafford hotseat.
      Copy linkCopied More

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      Bruno Fernandes drops biggest hint he could QUIT Man Utd as he tells club to match his ‘expectations’

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      BRUNO FERNANDES has dropped a huge hint that he could leave Manchester United amid the club’s turmoil.Earlier this month, SunSport exclusively revealed that Fernandes is considering a summer move after four-and-a-half seasons at Old Trafford.Bruno Fernandes has hinted that he could leave Man UtdCredit: GettyThe midfielder had previously admitted that he will think about his future after this summer’s European Championship.And now he insists Man Utd’s standards must be set much higher for him to stay.In a piece for The Players’ Tribune, Fernandes wrote: “I just want my expectations to fit with the expectations of the club.”If you go talk to any fan, they will tell you the same thing. We want to compete for the league.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”We want to be playing Champions League football. We want to be in cup finals. That is the standard.”That is what I want. That is what you all deserve.”I just want my expectations to fit with the expectations of the club.”Bruno FernandesThe Players’ TribuneMan Utd ended the Premier League season eighth in the table, the club’s lowest-ever finish.Erik ten Hag’s side will face local rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Sunday.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSShould the Red Devils win, they will qualify for a spot in next season’s Europa League.However, a defeat will see them miss out on European football altogether.Man Utd fans in fresh Bruno Fernandes fears as captain waits until almost midnight with supporters outside Old TraffordFernandes has been one of Man Utd’s most impressive players this seasonFernandes has lifted just one trophy since joining United in January 2020 – the 2022-23 Carabao Cup.The 29-year-old agreed a new four-year deal in 2022 after receiving assurances that the club was going in the right direction.However, his future at Old Trafford is now uncertain.Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly urged Al-Nassr to sign Fernandes this summer.The Saudi Pro League side are willing to do whatever it takes to sign him. More

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      Premier League cult hero looks unrecognisable 15 years on as he enjoys dinner with Brazil legends including Kaka

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      A PREMIER LEAGUE cult hero has shown off a new look 15 years on from leaving England.The retired midfielder stunned fans as he shared a snap from a recent night out with a group of Brazil legends.The Premier League cult hero looked unrecognisable alongside Brazil legend KakaCredit: Instagram @elanoblumerHe now sports glasses and a greying beard 15 years after leaving EnglandCredit: Instagram @elanoblumerHe was joined by World Cup winner Kaka as he enjoyed dinner alongside a quartet of fellow former players.Ex-Arsenal loanee Julio Baptista, Michel Bastos and Miranda were also present.However, fans were shocked to see a one-time Manchester City star’s new look.Ditching his short hair and clean shave look from his playing days, the 42-year-old sported curls and a beard in the photo.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe mystery player was none other than City cult hero Elano.Other social media snaps have also seen him sport even longer curls along with glasses and a greying beard.Elano joined City from Shakhtar Donetsk for £10million in 2007, spending two years at the Etihad Stadium.During that time, he scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists in 62 Premier League appearances.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSReflecting on his time at the club in December, Elano told the Manchester Evening News: “It was an exciting time to come and sign for the club because I knew I was joining something special and I was confident I could help the club grow.”I took great pride in bringing back some happiness for Manchester City fans.”Football’s weirdest contract clauses revealed including non-Arsenal agreement and a private jet promiseFollowing his exit, he had spells in Turkey, Brazil and India before retiring in 2017 aged 35.Elano also won 50 caps for Brazil, scoring nine goals for his country.Since hanging up his boots, the Brazilian has held several coaching and managerial roles in his homeland.He most recently took charge of third tier Ferroviaria for five months in 2023.Elano became a fan favourite during two seasons with Manchester CityCredit: ReutersThe Brazilian midfielder scored 14 Premier League goals for CityCredit: PA:Press Association More

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      Marcus Rashford models England’s Euros clothing range for M&S despite Man Utd star being dropped by Gareth Southgate

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      MARCUS RASHFORD modelled for England’s Euro 2024 clothing range with M&S – despite being dropped by Gareth Southgate.The Manchester United star – usually a regular with Southgate – was not named in the provisional 33-man squad. Marcus Rashford modelled for England Euro 2024 clothing range with M&SThat is despite Rashford not making the Euros squadRashford poses alongside Aaron Ramsdale and Conor GallagherThe Premier League stars pose in their matching setsCredit: M&SBut it did not stop him from posing alongside Arsenal keeper Aaron Ramsdale and Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher – both also picked. Rashford modelled in a matching two piece beige jacket and trousers combination with a cream jumper on underneath worth £150 in total. Gallagher wore a black bomber jacket with a cream zip polo shirt also costing £150 while Ramsdale had a £50 buttoned overshirt on with £45 trousers. M&S have been long-time sponsors of the Three Lions and Southgate famously made the waistcoat his trademark during the 2018 World Cup. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLEx-England captain John Terry also blamed wearing suits on a sweltering afternoon in South Africa as a reason behind losing to Germany in the 2010 round of 16. Southgate is due to name his final 26-man squad ahead of the tournament but Rashford is not in contention. Explaining his decision, Southgate said: “These are of course difficult calls. You are talking about players that are very important players.”With Marcus, in that area of the pitch, I feel that other players have had better seasons, it’s as simple as that.” Most read in FootballBBC and ITV’s Euro 2024 line up in fullHere’s how each channel will line-up:

      BBC presenters:
      Gary Lineker, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman
      ITV presenters:
      Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods 
      BBC pundits:
      Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Rio Ferdinand, Ellen White, Frank Lampard, Ashley Williams, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Cesc Fabregas, Thomas Frank, David Moyes, Rachel Corsie and James McFadden
      ITV pundits:
      Ian Wright, Roy Keane, Gary Neville, Karen Carney, Graeme Souness, Eni Aluko, Ange Postecoglou, Danny Rohl and Christina Unkel
      BBC commentators:
      Guy Mowbray, Robyn Cowen, Vicki Sparks, Steve Wilson, Steve Bower and Jonathan Pearce
      ITV commentators:
      Sam Matterface, Clive Tyldesley, Seb Hutchinson, Pien Meulensteen and Joe Speight
      BBC co-commentators:
      Danny Murphy, Martin Keown, Jermaine Jenas and James McFadden
      ITV co-commentators:
      Lee Dixon, Ally McCoist and Andros Townsend

      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSRashford responded online: “Wishing Gareth and the boys all the best for the up and coming tournament.”The United forward was picked for all three of Southgate’s previous international tournaments, scoring twice in the 2022 World Cup. Meet the ten Wags ready to stun at Euro 2024Despite the snub, Southgate revealed Rashford respected his decision in a private phone call where the news was broke. Southgate said: “He will be hugely disappointed.“He wants to play for England, he loves playing for England, and the opportunity to play in tournaments is why you play international football.“But again, he was really respectful. I said to him: ‘You’ve got to go and score a couple of goals at the weekend now and put things right.’”Gareth Southgate dropped Rashford from his Euro 2024 squadCredit: Reuters More

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      Jack Grealish stunned by Erling Haaland’s ‘unbelievable’ Man City regime after Roy Keane’s ‘League Two player’ dig

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      JACK GREALISH claims “unbelievable” Manchester City team-mate Erling Haaland does not get enough respect.Manchester United legend Roy Keane cruelly branded Haaland a “League Two player” after a tame display in a 0-0 Etihad draw with Arsenal in March.Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish provide bullets for Erling HaalandCredit: AlamyHaaland was slated for a quiet performance vs Arsenal on March 31Credit: AP[embedded content]But the Norwegian has once again compiled amazing stats and Grealish reckons he’s the hardest-working star he’s ever seenThe England wideman said: “He’s just unbelievable – a killer. I can’t speak highly enough of him.“This season he’s scored 27 goals in the league. “It’s a bit disrespected – as if it’s not good. But  he’s there every time the ball is in the box and I’ve never seen anyone with his work ethic.”READ MORE TOP STORIESHaaland won another Golden Boot and fired City to a fourth successive top-flight crown.The Norwegian has bagged 90 goals in 97 games for the Premier League champions.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSCity are targeting a domestic Double on Saturday when they face  United in the FA Cup final — a repeat of last year’s Wembley showpiece, which Pep Guardiola’s men won 2-1.And another victory will see Grealish, 28, land an EIGHTH trophy in just three years at the club under Guardiola.Most read in FootballHe told talkSPORT: “He’s an unbelievable manager — easily the best ever.Exclusive: Harry Maguire previews FA Cup clash against Man City“There have been times this year where I’ve struggled off the pitch and he’s been there for me.”United meanwhile will have to do without Harry Maguire, who faces a race against time to get over his injury before the Euros. More

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      Chelsea ready to hijack Man Utd’s transfer bid to lure £16m Argentine wonderkid to Stamford Bridge

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      CHELSEA are ready to muscle in on Manchester United’s bid to lure one of Argentina’s most promising young defenders to the Premier League.The Blues have blitzed the South American market since Todd Boehly’s takeover with talented young attackers and midfielders signed from Brazil and Ecuador so far.Todd Boehly’s Chelsea reign includes a focus on South American talentCredit: GettyAaron Anselmino has been linked to Man Utd, Milan and now ChelseaCredit: GettyAnd now they are reportedly looking to snare teenage centre-back Aaron Anselmino from under the noses of United, who have been scouting the Boca Juniors star for many months.Anselmino, 19, was first linked to United and AC Milan earlier this year.And rumours of the Red Devils’ interest appeared to firm up in February when TyC Sports named him on a list of four Argentine talents United were tracking.The 6ft 2in star only made his senior debut for the Buenos Aires giants 12 months ago, shortly after he signed his first professional contract.READ MORE TOP STORIESThey updated his terms to include a 20m US$ release (£15.72m) release clause in January.But Boca took it out when they renewed him through to 2028 this month after it became obvious the amount was not high enough to deter offers.A bidding war between Prem clubs would suit Boca down to the ground and journalist Fafi Perez has claimed Chelsea are Anselmino’s latest suitors. The reporter told DSports Radio listeners that United remain the most interested club in the uncapped teenager.Most read in FootballBut it was also noted Chelsea have entered the fight as a direct competitor.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBoth clubs would not have a problem meeting Boca’s asking price.Reports earlier this year claimed United’s plan for Anselmino was to sign him and loan him to another club owned by INEOS – a move that comes right out of Chelsea’s playbook.Watch Argentina World Cup winner and £107m Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez play hurling on holiday in Ireland The Blues loaned Brazilian duo Andrey Santos, 20, and Angelo, 19, to sister club Strasbourg this season.And there has been speculation that Estevao Willian, who Chelsea are understood to be splashing over £60m on, could be heading to join them in France when he turns 18 next spring. More