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      Arne Slot urged to make bold tactical tweak and CHANGE Liverpool star’s position to get the best out of him

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      A DUTCH football legend has urged a Liverpool player to make a surprise positional change under new boss Arne Slot.This player and his team-mates are preparing for a whole new era on Merseyside after Jurgen Klopp’s departure as manager.Rafael van der Vaart wants to see a Liverpool ace switch positionCredit: GettyArne Slot has replaced Jurgen Klopp as manager of the RedsCredit: AFPThe German bid an emotional farewell to Liverpool after the 2-0 win over Wolves last week and will be replaced by Dutchman Slot.Popular duo Joel Matip and Thiago Alcantara are also leaving the club along with Klopp’s staff.Mo Salah has shown that he is ready for the big change by undertaking a major one himself regarding his hairstyle.However, former Tottenham and Real Madrid attacker Rafael van der Vaart, 41, feels another Red should look to make a huge transformation – only this time on the pitch.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLRyan Gravenberch, 22, joined Liverpool from Bayern Munich for £40m last summer but has endured a mixed first campaign.He played 38 appearances, 21 of them being starts, but scored just four times and provided two assists in that period from his usual position of No.8 under Klopp.Now Van der Vaart wants to see him move from being behind the front three and suggested that he instead drops back to a deeper position in order to change his fortunes.And he highlighted their Dutch compatriot Nigel de Jong, who played there for Man City, and Arsenal legend Patrick Viera as two examples for him to follow.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSpeaking to Dutch outlet Voetbal International, Van Der Vaart said: “I advise Ryan to opt for a role as a defensive midfielder.“That will not be an easy choice for him, because he can do much more. You can compare it with Nigel de Jong in the past.Arne Slot to make 3 key changes at Liverpool“Nigel could do much more than the subservient controller he eventually became.“But in that specific role he reached an absolute top level.“Nigel decided he was going to be a pit bull and that’s it.“Ryan is also very versatile and I recommend him to make a similar choice.“In a role like Patrick Vieira once played at Arsenal and France.”Ryan Gravenberch has endured a mixed first season at AnfieldCredit: EPASlot snubbed Spurs, hates defending and has a PASS named after himBy Dan King

      LIVERPOOL’S new manager Arne Slot was a good enough player to have a type of pass named after him.
      But it is as a manager that the Feyenoord head coach is really making his mark.
      Like another bald Dutchman, Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, Slot earned his stripes bossing smaller sides before being given a chance at one of the Netherlands’ big three.
      But the question Liverpool are pondering is whether Slot would make a better fist of running one of the biggest clubs in the world than Ten Hag so far has at Old Trafford.
      Slot, 45, was certainly easier on the eye as a player than centre back Ten Hag.
      “The Arne Slot Ball” was something he perfected as a silky No 10 – a back-to-goal, first-time, 180-degree spin and flick behind the defensive line for a winger to run on to deep in the opposition half.
      Click here to read all about the incoming Liverpool boss.

      Gravenberch recently discussed his first year at Anfield and says he was happy after getting more game time than he had done at Bayern.He said: “That’s why I’m satisfied with my season at Liverpool. I wanted to make more minutes and I succeeded.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I have played good matches, but also lesser ones. No, I’m not as tired as I am after a season where you’ve played everything.“I haven’t played everything. Can that freshness be an advantage? Well, I’m ready if you ask me. Anyway, first let’s be part of the final selection.”Liverpool go DutchWHO’S who in the Liverpool dugout next season.
      Manager Arne Slot, 45
      Slot has led Feyenoord for three seasons, wining the Eredivisie title in 2023 and the KNVB Cup in  2024.
      A former footballer in Holland, he is known to be a perfectionist and favours attacking football like Jurgen Klopp.
      Assistant manager Sipke Hulshoff, 49
      Hulshoff currently serves as Ronald Koeman’s assistant manager with the Holland national team and also works alongside Slot at Feyenoord.
      He has had two spells as manager at little-known Dutch side Cambuur.
      Head of performance Ruben Peeters, 31
      A former fitness coach at Genk, Peeters has been working with Slot at Feyenoord since 2021. 
      The Belgian has a Master’s Degree in Sports Sciences.
      Chief analyst Etienne Reijnen, 37
      Former centre back who retired from football in 2020 to move into coaching.
      In October 2023, Reijnen joined Feyenoord as assistant coach, to focus on analysing and providing technical advise to Arne Slot. More

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      Erik ten Hag sees ‘next Kobbie Mainoo’ as future Man Utd first-team star as fans predict breakthrough season

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      FANS are predicting a “breakthrough” campaign for a Manchester United wonderkid that is highly-regarded by Erik ten Hag.The Dutchman is still in limbo regarding his future at Old Trafford as he waits to see whether Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos axe him.Kobbie Mainoo capped a stunning breakthrough season with FA Cup gloryCredit: GettyAfter last year’s League Cup victory, Erik ten Hag was pictured speaking to Mainoo, and the Manchester United manager did something similar with a different youth player after the FA Cup winCredit: ESPNTen Hag won the League Cup in his first season in charge and led the Red Devils to a top four finish to ensure Champions League qualification.But this term has proven to be a lot more difficult as he came under huge pressure following a series of dreadful results.United finished eighth, the lowest in their Premier League history, but ended it on a high by defeating neighbours Man City to lift the FA Cup at Wembley on Saturday.That secured them Europa League football for next term thanks to teenage star Kobbie Mainoo’s matchwinner.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe 19-year-old midfielder’s emergence from the academy into a first-team regular, and the England squad, has been one of the few bright spots this term.Ten Hag had a famous moment with Mainoo, who was still a relative unknown, after the League Cup win over Newcastle in February 2023.Now fans are convinced that he has picked Toby Collyer as his “next Mainoo” after he was spotted deep in conversation with the ace during the Wembley celebrations last week.Ten Hag made a beeline for the 20-year-old, who had travelled with the squad as a spare man, and embraced him on the pitch.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTen Hag was spotted talking to Collyer at WembleyCredit: BBCToby Collyer is hoping to follow in the footsteps of his fellow youngsterCredit: GettyThe boss gestured to the fans while speaking in the ear of Collyer in scenes reminiscent of that with Mainoo.The Telegraph reports that the defensive midfielder “is regarded as a player with first-team potential” by the manager.Watch ‘wholesome’ moment Kobbie Mainoo asks Man Utd fan for THAT bucket hat he wore after FA Cup final heroicsAnd that led to fans speculating about big things ahead for the youngster after seeing his chat with Ten Hag.One fan wrote on X: “I saw Ten Hag chatting to him like Mainoo last year in the Carabao final.”Another said: “Spoke to him like he spoke to Mainoo so next season might be a breakthrough for him.”A third added: “Ten Hag was talking with him at the end of the cup final game just like he did with Kobbie after we won the Carabao Cup last year. I already know he’s gonna cook for us next season.”And a fourth said: “First was Kobbie Mainoo… Now is Toby Collyer.”The defensive midfielder could potentially fill a void left by Casemiro as the veteran Brazilian continues to be linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.He is best-deployed in a number six role which allows him to dictate play.Collyer arrived at Old Trafford from Brighton in 2022 and has already been recognised at international level.He has caps for England at both under-16 and U17 – captaining each age group.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe star is under contract at United until 2025 but is still yet to play competitively for the first-team.However, Ten Hag did get a look at him last pre-season in their friendly against Wrexham in the USA and he is expected to travel with the seniors again when they go on tour after the summer. More

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      Red Bull launch first move into English football as they purchase stake in former Premier League giants

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      LEEDS have struck a deal with energy drink firm Red Bull to help power them back to the Premier League.United fell short of an immediate return to the top flight this season after losing to Southampton in the play-off final.Red Bull own Bundesliga side LeipzigCredit: GettyRed Bull’s racing team are hugely successful in F1Credit: GettyThe partnership will see the Austrian-based company become the team’s shirt sponsor and buy a minority stake in the Championship side.Red Bull already own a number of football teams including RB Leipzig in Germany, Salzburg in Austria and MLS’ New York Red Bulls.They also own the current F1 world champions Red Bull Racing and sister team Visa Cash App RB – formerly known as AlphaTauri.The move sees their first investment into English football as they will take a shareholding, alongside majority owners 49ers Enterprises’ group.READ MORE IN football Leeds chairman Paraag Marathe said: “I am thrilled that Red Bull is joining us to build a bright future for Leeds United and shares our deep respect for this truly special club.“As Chairman, our consortium of investment partners will be invaluable to me as we approach this important moment for the club, now and into the future. “Red Bull’s addition is a historic milestone that will further empower the club to reach its full competitive potential.”A statement of Leeds website added: “Today’s announcement that Red Bull will be joining forces with Leeds United reinforces the international popularity and significance of the club.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”Beginning in the 2024/2025 season, Leeds United will feature Red Bull branding on the front of Leeds United men’s and women’s first team kits.Another Hollywood A-lister and fellow Leeds investor is Russell Crowe, who watched the side on Match of the Day while he was growing up in New Zealand.Paris Hilton joins Hollywood A-lister and darts icon in bizarre good luck message to Leeds for Championship play-off “Red Bull will also become the club’s Exclusive Energy Drink Partner with branding featured inside Elland Road and during the club’s official media appearances.”Red Bull’s CEO of Corporate Projects and Investments, Oliver Mintzlaff, added: “We are delighted to be an important element and partner of Leeds United.”A club that is certainly one of the biggest in England and has a rich and successful history.”The ambition to bring Leeds United back to the Premier League and establish themselves in the best football league in the world fits very well with Red Bull. “We look forward to the partnership and are optimistic and energized about the future.” More

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      Leicester ‘considering Man Utd legend’ to replace Chelsea-bound Maresca despite him ‘sparking player revolt’ in last job

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      LEICESTER are considering a swoop for Ruud van Nistelrooy to replace Chelsea-bound Enzo Maresca as boss, according to reports.The Foxes won the Championship with 97 points last season under former Manchester City assistant Maresca.Ruud van Nistelrooy is under consideration to land the Leicester jobCredit: GettyFoxes boss Enzo Maresca is set to leave for ChelseaCredit: GettyThey are now looking for a new manager, with Maresca, 44, having agreed a five-year deal to replace Mauricio Pochettino at Stamford Bridge.And, according to Belgian reporter Sacha Tavolieri, Van Nistelrooy is under serious consideration by Foxes chiefs.The Manchester United legend, 47, began his coaching career as an assistant to Guus Hiddink with the Dutch national team in 2014.He later coached PSV Eindhoven’s Under-19s, before eventually landing their first team gig in 2022.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDuring his one year in charge, Van Nistelrooy won the KNVB Cup with PSV.The former striker went on to resign with one game to spare in the Eredivisie season, with his side second in the table.At the time it was claimed by ESPN that Van Nistelrooy had left his post amid a “player revolt” over his coaching and tactics.The Dutchman primarily deployed a 4-3-3 formation during his time at PSV, although occasionally dabbled with a 4-4-2.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSVan Nistelrooy starred for Man Utd between 2001 and 2006Credit: PA:Press AssociationHis side set up to retain possession of the ball, playing a patient, highly structured style.Despite their Championship title success, many Leicester fans have not been particularly sad to see Maresca go.Man Utd’s best XI of academy graduatesThe former City coach also set his side up to play a patient, possession-based style – at odds with the direct football many at the King Power have favoured over the last decade.Maresca has been accused of having “no Plan B” by sections of the Foxes faithful, while his side’s football was met by groans at times at the King Power.While supporters were not always convinced, Maresca did achieve great buy in from his players.’HE’S INCREDIBLE’Midfielder Harry Winks, who played under Pochettino, Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte at Tottenham, even made a bold claim about Maresca.Winks, 28, told Sky Sports: “He’s by far the best manager I’ve worked for. He’s incredible.”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.”Why Leicester fans WON’T miss Maresca
      By Graeme Bryce
      IT IS 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.

      Back in March, Van Nistelrooy underlined his desire to one day work in the Premier League.He said: “I have had offers from various clubs, also in my own country, but I would love to work in England or in Spain.”I want to coach in a league where I have played, because in those countries I speak the language fluently. In my opinion, I have gained plenty of experience. I have gone through the ranks.”On what he brings to the table, the decorated former star continued: “I did the younger youth teams at PSV Eindhoven, I was coach of the under-21s and subsequently became manager of the first team.”I have managed a lot of different players. I helped young talented players develop, let them grow, like (Cody) Gakpo, (Noni) Madueke, (Johan) Bakayoko and Xavi Simons. I was able to support them in their development.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It matters to me that it is a well organised club. I still want to work with young players, but ideally with a mixture of experienced professionals.”I want to help them improve and bring a winning mentality. The latter is the most important thing. With my style of football.”Meet Pep Guardiola disciple Enzo Maresca
      ENZO 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. More

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      Meet Enzo Maresca’s expert backroom staff he will bring to Chelsea including former Blues Champions League winner

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      ENZO MARESCA is the latest man that Chelsea believe can bring the glory days back to Stamford Bridge – and he is not coming alone.The Leicester City boss, 44, is set to be appointed on a five-year deal with the option of a sixth.Enzo Maresca is closing in on becoming Chelsea’s new managerCredit: GettySeveral of his Leicester City staff will be coming with him to Stamford BridgeCredit: GettyWilly Caballero is returning to his former clubCredit: GettyThe Italian guided Leicester to the Championship titleCredit: GettyChelsea sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart flew to Marbella to meet the Italian after identifying him as their first choice.The Blues are now in talks with Leicester over a compensation package for Maresca’s five coaching staff – on top of the £10million they are set to pay for the coach.The former West Brom midfielder, who used to get lifts to training from ex-Blues boss Graham Potter, has hand-picked the team he wants behind him at Stamford Bridge.There are eight names in total, with five coming with him from the King Power and another one to follow, with Chelsea giving them green light to work with their existing staff.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHere’s a look at the eight men that will form Maresca’s backroom team:WILLY CABALLERO (Assistant manager)The former Chelsea goalie, who was part of the 2021 Champions League winning squad, is not just coming to help Maresca acclimatise to West London.The Argentinean, 42, has been his No.2 at the King Power this season and has proven himself to be a key man for the Italian with his innovative ideas.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSDANNY WALKER (Coach)Known as a specialist in individual coaching, he was previously part of Manchester City’s academy set-up.Most read in FootballPlays a key role in implementing Maresca’s offensive ideas to the squad.Best ten new Premier League kits for next seasonMARCOS ALVAREZ (Fitness coach)Does his best work out on the grass, he is set to work closely with Chelsea’s head of performance Bryce Kavanagh.The Blues had one of the worst injury records in the Premier League this term, something that he will likely have to look to improve as one of his key tasks regarding the fitness and conditioning of players.JAVIER MOLINA CABALLERO (Analyst)Joined Maresca’s Leicester staff as first team analyst 12 months ago having worked previously for the likes of Atletico Madrid, Parma, and Barcelona B.He is now a crucial cog of the manager’s staff and will work very closely with the existing data department at Chelsea.MICHELE DE BERNARDIN (Goalkeeping coach)Tasked with improving both the technical and positional performance of the goalies he works with in addition to working with outfield ones on where to receive the ball from his keepers.He will make up the five incoming from Leicester and is set to work closely with Ben Roberts.Meet Pep Guardiola disciple Enzo Maresca
      ENZO 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.

      BEN ROBERTS (Goalkeeper coach and head of global goalkeeping)The ex-Middlesbrough goalie moved to Stamford Bridge along with Graham Potter from Brighton two years ago but has impressed everybody. Maresca has requested for him to stay and be a part of his backroom staff.BERNARDO CUEVA (Set-piece coach)He was brought to Chelsea from Brentford and will instantly join Maresca’s first-team staff.The new boss was already planning to appoint a set-piece coach at Leicester after their promotion and now has one that is regarded as a leader in his field already at his disposal in West London.ROBERTO VITIELLO (Development coach)He is being recruited to help transition the club’s young players.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis main task will be to provide a pathway to the first-team and prepare them for Maresca.Vitiello is still at Leicester but the Blues will make their move for him after wrapping up the rest of the new man’s staff.Why Leicester fans WON’T miss Maresca
      IT IS fair to say most Leicester fans were not exactly pleading with Maresca to stay, writes Graeme Bryce
      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. More

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      I was Enzo Maresca’s boss when he played for West Brom – another Chelsea manager used to give him lifts to training

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      WEST BROM’S team of 1998-99 may seem an unlikely breeding ground for future Chelsea managers.But Enzo Maresca is following in the footsteps of his ­former Baggies team-mate Graham ­Potter by being appointed to take charge at Stamford Bridge by American owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali.Enzo Maresca is set to become Chelsea’s latest managerCredit: GettyHe played for West Brom during the 1990s in the ChampionshipCredit: GettyEx-Chelsea boss Graham Potter was a team-mate of his at the HawthornsCredit: PATheir former West Brom boss Denis Smith spoke exclusively to Sun SportCredit: AlamyFull-back Potter used to give teenaged midfielder Maresca a lift to training, after his free transfer from Cagliari.Now he will see his former colleague take the Chelsea job from which he was sacked in April last year.Denis Smith, the Albion manager who brought Maresca to England as a teenager, said: “That’s now two Chelsea managers who have come from that West Brom team I managed — so I must have been teaching them something right!”West Brom finished ­mid- table in the old First Division — now the Championship — before Smith was sacked.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLYet they ended up pocketing a club-record £4million by selling Maresca to Juventus the ­following season.And former Sunderland boss Smith reckons the Italian showed a rare footballing intelligence — even then.Smith, 76, recalled: “I had already brought another Italian — Mario Bortolazzi — to West Brom and the agent asked me to have a look at an 18-year-old kid who was available on a free.“He trained with us for less than half an hour and I told the agent, ‘He’ll do me!’Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“Enzo could barely speak English but it didn’t matter. He was clearly a bright kid and, boy, could he pick a pass.“If you wanted him to sit in and play as a holding midfielder, he understood that role so well, but he was also very useful going forward. He had pretty much everything.Chelseas midfield struggles with Moises Caicedo and Enzo FernandezMeet 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.

      “We got him for free but West Brom ended up selling him to Juventus for a lot of money — after I had been sacked!“Most of the time we were together, I used the other ­Italian lad (Bortolazzi) as a translator.“But Enzo just had such intelligence that it didn’t feel like communication was an issue.“He was only young but when someone reads the game like he could, it doesn’t surprise you when they go on to be successful as a coach and manager.“There weren’t many players coming over from Europe to the First Division back then in the 90s.“But it was a good market of mine, as we proved with Maresca. It was a bold move for him to come to England at such a young age but that intelligence made it easy for him to settle over here.We got him for free but West Brom ended up selling him to Juventus for a lot of money — after I had been sacked!Denis Smith“Professional footballers — as I often tell people — are a more intelligent bunch than they are given credit for and Enzo was one of the brightest.”Maresca would go on to win Serie A with Juventus and two Uefa Cups with Sevilla before he managed Manchester City’s reserves under Pep Guardiola.After a brief unsuccessful spell in charge of Italian Serie B club Parma, Maresca led Leicester to the Championship title last season.After Chelsea triggered his £10million Foxes release clause, 44-year-old Maresca is following Potter into the Stamford Bridge hotseat — vacated by Mauricio Pochettino earlier this month.And their old boss Smith — who also managed York, Bristol City, Oxford and Wrexham — said: “They go through a lot of managers at Chelsea but, however impatient they are, it is still a job Enzo will feel he had to take.“They are one of the biggest clubs in Europe and anyone with ambition would want a crack at it.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The best coaches and managers are the ones who recognise that football is such a complex game but can deliver their messages in simple terms to ­players without over-complicating it.“That is an ability that Graham Potter has and it doesn’t surprise me that Maresca has it, too.”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. More

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      How much money has Soccer Aid raised for charity?

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      SOCCER AID 2024 promises incredible and entertaining action when football legends mix it up with celebrities on the pitch for charity.The popular event, which pits England against Wold XI, takes place on June 9 at Stamford Bridge and as always will be raising money for Unicef.Robbie Williams will be looking to break Soccer Aid’s record from last yearXChelsea legend Eden Hazard returns to Stamford Bridge for Soccer AidSinger Robbie Williams came up with the initiative in 2006 to help children worldwide have the best possible start in life.Soccer Aid aims to help kids escape conflict, malnutrition and disease while at the same time accessing education and a generally safe environment around the globe.The charity football match is the biggest in the world and since 2006 has raised more than £90million in total.The 2023 tournament was the most successful ever as it raised a record-breaking £14.6m for UNICEF – a fee Williams and co would love to break this year.Read More on Football A number of big names are already pencilled down to compete this year.That includes the likes of Chelsea legends Frank Lampard and Eden Hazard who return to Stamford Bridge for one last hurrah.They will be joined by Roberto Carlos, David Seaman, Jermain Defoe and many other football greats.Fellow sports stars Usain Bolt and Sir Mo Farah will also take centre stage with what promises to be an exciting dream match as the two runners will be competing for different teams.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSCelebrities like Danny Dyer, Tommy Fury and Paddy McGuinness will be joining them.Soccer Aid will once again be shown for FREE live on ITV1 (England and Wales) as well as STV (Scotland).The charity extravaganza can also be streamed for FREE online with ITVX.SunSport expert Martin Lipton reacts to shock new Premier League financial rules More

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      Which celebrities are playing at Soccer Aid 2024?

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      SOCCER AID 2024 will see a number of celebrities swapping their talents for a pair of football boots for one day only.The popular charity event takes place on Sunday, June 9 at Stamford Bridge with all proceeds going to Unicef.Sir Mo Farah will be representing England in Soccer Aid 2024Robbie Williams founded Soccer Aid in 2006 and returns to his place in the dugoutThe friendly game between England and World XI will include some of football’s greatest legends and a raft of celebrities raising money for underprivileged children worldwide.Soccer Aid 2024 aims to help kids have the best possible start in life by escaping conflict, malnutrition and disease while also helping them gain access to education.Some of the sport’s all-time best, such as Frank Lampard, Eden Hazard, Jill Scott, Roberto Carlos and more, are already pencilled down for the big day.But which actors, singers and fellow sports legends will be joining them? Check out the full celeb list below:Read More on FootballENGLANDRobbie Williams (Co-Manager)Robbie Williams founded Soccer Aid in 2006 and this year he will be in the dugout for England alongside Frank Lampard and Harry Redknapp.The famous singer has spent the last few seasons at the helm with a series of famous other coaches.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPaddy McGuinness (Celebrity Goalkeeper)Most read in FootballComedian Paddy McGuinness will be England’s goalkeeper and will share time between the stick with David James.McGuinness and James will get to warm up with Arsenal legend David Seaman, who will be the goalkeeping coach for the hosts.Luke Littler (rumoured)The new king of darts asked to play in the game in April, although his participation has not yet been confirmed. Littler, 17, is heading to New York for the first time for the US Darts Masters fresh off his £275,000 Premier League win and has a very busy summer schedule.Eddie Hearn The boxing promoter is a new addition to the line up and makes his debut on the pitch.Hearn, who was previously a part-owner of Leyton Orient, grew up playing lots of sports including football, but it’s not clear how good he is or what position his imposing 6ft 5in figure will play.Danny DyerDanny Dyer is a famous actor who rose to fame following his roles in unforgettable films and TV series, such as The Football Factory and EastEnders.Dyer is a massive football fan and a big supporter of West Ham.You can now win a sweaty Soccer Aid football kit worn by a celebrity including Liam Payne and Usain Bolt Tom GrennanTom Grennan is a famous singer and songwriter who has previously performed in Soccer Aid’s half-time show along with Robbie Williams.Grennan found fame in 2018 with his debut album Lighting Matches which peaked at No5 on the UK Albums Chart.Steven BartlettSteven Bartlett is a British entrepreneur and podcaster that founded Thirdweb, Flight Story and Flight Fund.Bartlett runs The Diary of a CEO YouTube show and has been appearing at the hit BBC series Dragons’ Den.Erin DohertyErin Doherty rose to fame after being cast in the hit Netflix series The Crown.Doherty played Princess Anne in the popular show and has appeared in other pictures.Sir Mo FarahWorld XI will need to keep an eye on legendary Olympian Sir Mo Farah at Stamford Bridge.Farah won a staggering ten global championship gold medals, four of which were Olympic honours, throughout his staggering career that has earned him the title as one of the best ever long-distance runners.Alex BrookerAlex Brooker is a famous journalist best known for his television work with Channel 4.Brooker has hosted a number of popular shows throughout his career, such as The Last Leg and The Jump.Stuart BroadJust like Sir Mo Farah, Stuart Broad is also a sports legend outside of football having earned superstardom in cricket.Broad has played for the likes of Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Kings XI Punjab, Hobart Hurricanes and of course England.Bobby BrazierBobby Brazier is an actor and model who is building an impressive career despite his young age.Brazier, 20, has earned fame after appearing on Eastenders and Loose Women.Sam ThompsonSam Thompson is a reality television personality and radio presenter.Thompson has appeared in Made in Chelsea, Celebrity Big Brother and I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here.West Ham fan Danny Dyer will be in action at Stamford BridgeMiniminterMiniminter, real name Simon Minter, is one of the Sidemen and often produces football videos on YouTube.He has starred in the YouTube vs Sidemen charity games, scoring a hat-trick in 2022 and grabbing two assists last year.Billy WingrovePreviously one half of the F2 Freestylers, Wingrove no longer plays but has been a fixture in Soccer Aid for years.He is acting as a coach for both the England and World XIs.World XIUsain BoltUsain Bolt is one of the greatest athletes in the history of sport – some even consider him the greatest ever.And for a good reason, as Bolt enjoyed a stunning career that saw him breaking records in the 100m as well as 200m events and winning a staggering eight Olympic gold medals.It will be very interesting seeing the Jamaican legend going up against Sir Mo Farah on the pitch.Maisie AdamMaisie Adam is a stand-up comedian that will be swapping the mic for a World XI jersey.Adam’s work gained traction following her various appearances on ITV and Channel 4.Roman KempRoman Kemp is a radio host, television star and reality TV personality.Kemp used to present the Capital FM breakfast show and is now the face of The One Show on BBC One.Lee MackLee Mack is a famous comedian who has made a series of TV appearances throughout his career.Mack has appeared on various popular shows such as Would I Lie to You?Tommy FuryTommy Fury is a heavyweight boxer who has also enjoyed success on reality television after his appearance on Love Island.Fury, the brother of Tyson, boasts an undefeated record of 10-0 which includes some high-profile victories as he handed Jake Paul his first ever loss.Tommy Fury will be swapping his boxing gloves with a pair of football bootsDiamondLivi “Diamond” Sheldon will be swapping the BBC Gladiators arena for the football pitch.The former semi-professional footballer will go back to her old stomping grounds next to some star team-mates, such as Roberto Carlos, Eden Hazard and Usain Bolt.Martin CompstonMartin Compston rose to fame as an actor appearing on hit series Line of Duty as well as well recieved movies like Sweet Sixteen.However, Compston, 39, initially pursued a football career starting out with Aberdeen at youth level before moving to Greenock Morton where he only played twice for a year until he hung up his boots in 2002.Theo BakerAnother YouTube star famous for his football videos, Baker played for Crystal Palace as a youngster and has played at a decent non-League level.That included a stint with Hashtag United when they first made the jump to semi-pro football.Jason ManfordThe comedian is another veteran of the charity match who is back once again.Manford, a massive Man City fan who is regularly seen on TV panel shows, has a sweet left foot.Tony BellewREAD MORE SUN STORIESA late addition to the World XI is former world cruiserweight champion Tony Bellew.Now a boxing pundit, Bellew is a huge Everton fan but is making his debut in the match. 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