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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

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      Man Utd target Kieran McKenna ‘no longer under consideration for Chelsea job as Blues aim to confirm new boss this week’

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      KIERAN McKENNA is no longer in contention for the Chelsea job. The Blues board are in the process of finding a successor to Mauricio Pochettino, who left the club after just one season. Kieran McKenna is no longer in contention for the Chelsea jobCredit: GettyMcKenna – who led Ipswich to Premier League promotion – was an early favourite for the role. The Northern Irishman took Ipswich from League One to the Premier League to become a hot commodity. Chelsea were seeking a younger candidate for the role and McKenna was deemed the perfect candidate. But according to The Athletic, the ex-Manchester United coach is no longer being considered by the Stamford Bridge hierarchy. READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSIt is believed McKenna is still in the running to take over from Erik ten Hag, who faces being sacked despite winning the FA Cup. Leicester City’s Enzo Maresca, Brentford’s Thomas Frank and former Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi are now in a three-horse Chelsea race. The search is being led by co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart alongside owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali. Maresca, who worked alongside City manager Pep Guardiola, is coming off a title-winning Championship season at Leicester. Most read in FootballTHE RISE AND RISE OF McKENNAFew managers have risen so dramatically as Kieran McKenna.

      But then few were tipped for coaching success so young.
      London-born McKenna, now 38, retired as a player aged just 22 due to a chronic hip injury.
      He’d begun with  Northern Irish sides Enniskillen Town United and Ballinamallard United before joining Tottenham in 2002.
      But by the time he was forced to quit seven years later, he’d failed to make a single senior appearance.
      However, after graduating from Loughborough University, Spurs appointed him Head of Academy Performance Analysis.
      It was then, in two years guiding Manchester United Under-18 where his reputation soared fastest.
      Having won the Premier League Northern Division title, McKenna was promoted all the way up to Jose Mourinho’s assistant in 2018, remaining high up in the backroom under Ole Gunnar Solskjær and Ralf Rangnick.
      Ipswich took the plunge on him in 2021.
      And after an impressive half-season in League One, he took the Tractor Boys up in his first full campaign – repeating the feat this term to restore the club’s long-lost top-flight status.
      Now, one way or another,  McKenna is poised for his greatest challenge in management – either keeping Ipswich up or moving to a major club.

      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnd the Blues board are admirers of his style of play but it could cost £10million to prise him away from the Foxes. De Zerbi meanwhile is said to have impressed Eghbali and would cost £5m in compensation despite leaving Brighton in the summer. Frank is an outsider for the job despite gaining plaudits for his work with Brentford as Chelsea look to announce their new manager this week. Mauricio Pochettino LEAVES Chelsea despite promising end to season as Blues line up four potential new bosses More

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      Man City rake in £20m as forgotten star seals transfer seconds after Wembley clash to soften FA Cup final blow

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      MANCHESTER CITY’S summer transfer kitty will receive a £20million boost thanks to Southampton’s promotion to the Prem.Saints had an agreement that they will be obligated to buy centre back Taylor Harwood-Bellis if they went straight back up.Manchester City have been handed a boost following their FA Cup final heartacheCredit: GettyTaylor Harwood-Bellis will complete a permanent move to the Saints following promotionCredit: GettySouthampton’s play-off final victory is set to land City £20millionCredit: GettyAnd a £20million fee was agreed between the two clubs when he moved to the South Coast back in September.With Harwood Bellis coming through the ranks at the Etihad, it means it will be classed as pure profit for City and will help them to meet Profit and Sustainability Rules.The 22-year-old has previously had loan spells with Blackburn, Burnley and Stoke as well as Belgian club Anderlecht but will now become a Southampton player.The funds should help Pep Guardiola as he looks to strengthen his squad for their title defence next season.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCity have already been linked with a move for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi along with title rivals Arsenal.Meanwhile, Kevin de Bruyne’s future remains in doubt as he enters the final year of his contract.Harwood-Bellis first joined City’s academy in 2008 before progressing through the academy.He was handed his first-team debut aged 17 in 2019 and went on to make eight appearances for the club, scoring once.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFollowing his loan move to the Saints last summer, the Stockport-born defender made 46 appearances for Russell Martin’s side.Those matches include Sunday’s play-off final victory over Leeds at Wembley Stadium.Even Man City legend Sergio Aguero can’t help APPLAUDING Mainoo goal during live watch-along of Man Utd’s FA Cup win Adam Armstrong’s first half strike sealed an immediate return to the top flight.Southampton were relegated from the Premier League in last place a year ago following an 11-season stay. More

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      Man Utd fans trying to SAVE Erik ten Hag’s job with Sir Jim Ratcliffe rattled by support during shock FA Cup final win

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      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE has been rattled by fan power as Manchester United delay a public announcement on Erik ten Hag’s future.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.Man Utd fans are trying to save Erik ten Hag’s job after his FA Cup triumphCredit: GettyRatcliffe shakes hands with Ten Hag after the final, and could soon be saying farewellBut 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.United 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.READ MORE MAN UTD“You want that from the manager, to show that belief in you. He did that.”Goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo secured United’s second trophy under Ten Hag following last season’s Carabao Cup triumph.United fans at Wembley backed Ten Hag, while others on social media pleaded with him to stay.Ten Hag, 54, planned to fly out from Manchester on holiday, leaving the club with a strong post-match message that he would “go somewhere else to win trophies, because that is what I do” if United decided to axe him.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSUnited’s official line is that they are conducting a review of the season before making any decisions.That is even though Ten Hag revealed he had already conducted this review with Ratcliffe.Awkward moment Gary Lineker asks Erik ten Hag if it his last game in tense interview after Man Utd’s stunning FA Cup winDespite Saturday’s FA Cup triumph, Ten Hag has overseen the club’s worst league finish in 34 years – ending up in eighth place and a whopping 31 points behind champions City.United also had a disastrous Champions League campaign as they exited bottom of their group. More

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      ‘Seen this script before’ – Man Utd fans convinced Ten Hag has already found next Mainoo after spotting Wembley chat

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans are convinced Erik ten Hag has found the next Kobbie Mainoo after their FA Cup win.The Red Devils beat rivals Manchester City 2-1 with Kobbie Mainoo netting the winner.Erik ten Hag embraced youngster Toby Collyer at the end of the FA Cup finalThe Under-21s star, right, was on the pitch celebrating at the end of the matchCredit: GettyFans think Collyer could follow in the footsteps of Cup final matchwinner Kobbie MainooCredit: GettyTen Hag spoke to Mainoo after winning the 2023 Carabao Cup finalMainoo has been a breakout star this season after watching United’s last cup win – the 2023 Carabao Cup – from the Wembley stands.After that final Ten Hag spoke to him on the pitch with his arm around his shoulder, and appeared to be sharing some tactical insight with the youngster.Fast forward 15 months and the United boss did the same with another young Red Devils midfielder – Toby Collyer.Ten Hag was seen pointing towards the pitch directing Collyer before shaking hands with the 20-year-old and embracing him.READ MORE ON MAN UTDCollyer is yet to make his first-team debut for United but did feature for the Under-21s this season.He joined from Brighton in 2021 and fans think he is ready to follow in Mainoo’s footsteps.One supporter reacted saying: “‘So next season he scores in the FA cup final let’s goooo.”Another added: “We’ve seen this script before.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA third wrote: “Toby Collyer is going to win us the Europa League next season.”Watch moment Erling Haaland’s dad is taunted with X-rated Roy Keane chant by Man Utd fans on Tube And another commented: “So Toby could be the next academy graduate. It feels like Ten Hag is building a team kinda like the Class of 92 stuff.” More