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      ‘Don’t come again.. I know your faces’ – Man City boss Pep Guardiola tells autograph-hunters to ‘live your life’

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      MANCHESTER CITY manager Pep Guardiola went viral after being caught on camera lambasting professional autograph hunters.Guardiola, 53, has endured a turbulent campaign as the defending Premier League champions have slipped down to sixth place in the table with leaders Liverpool 12 points ahead and a game in hand.Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola slammed autograph huntersGuardiola was praised by fans on social media for his reactionGuardiola told the autograph hunters to ‘live their life’Credit: TIKTOK @ctmemorabilia07Guardiola has endured a turbulent campaign with Man CityCredit: AlamyHowever, it appears that hasn’t stopped some opportunists looking to make an easy living by selling merchandise signed by the Catalan tactician.A viral clip has made the rounds showing the ex-Barcelona boss apparently confronting some of them.A group of young people ask the former Bayern Munich manager to sign a few items.The Man City boss appeared to agree to sign some items, but was recorded scolding them for their career choice and warned them to never come back.Read More on FootballGuardiola said: “Don’t come again, I won’t tell you again. I know your faces.”Go to school and prepare yourselves, you don’t want to be here to waste your time.”Honestly, you want to spend the rest of your lives doing this? F*****g hell!”The clip attracted immense viewership across Twitter and TikTok with fans praising Guardiola’s reaction.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOne fan tweeted: “Nothing wrong here. Basically telling youngsters to sort out their lives and do something more important but better. As any father would really.”Another commented: “He’s cooking.”Pep Guardiola reveals Kyle Walker has asked to LEAVE Man City with England defender set or £400K-A-WEEK Saudi transferA third wrote: “Pep is spot on.”This fan said: “They got schooled!”And that one stated: “Fair play to Pep!”A Man City shirt signed by Pep Guardiola can sell for in excess of £500. More

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      If Liverpool beat Forest the Prem title race is over but a win for visitors will resurrect shades of Leicester 2016

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      SIX points clear with a game in hand.Surely only complacency can prevent Liverpool running away with the Prem crown?Chris Wood and Nottingham Forest could dent Liverpool’s Premier League title hopesIf Liverpool beat Nottingham Forest on Tuesday that could practically seal the titleNuno Espirito Santo’s Forest tactics beat Liverpool earlier in the seasonLiverpool boss Arne Slot will be looking for revenge against Forest after the early-season defeat at AnfieldAnother win on Tuesday night and Prem bosses can start planning the title ceremony on May 25.Yet Arne Slot and his men head to the City Ground with questions suddenly being asked.And if Nuno Espirito Santo’s side can repeat their shock September Anfield triumph, then the alarm bells might just start ringing.Liverpool were imperious over the Christmas fixtures, building on the impressive early foundations of the club’s new era.Read More on FootballHitting Spurs for six was a let-off for Ange Postecoglou’s side, even if Slot will not have been impressed with the three goals his team conceded.Then an ultimately comfortable home win over Leicester was followed by another capital day in the capital as West Ham were crushed by five – a margin that might easily have been doubled.Those wins ensured that Arsenal’s return to winning ways in their own crop of fixtures kept Liverpool’s cushion at the top of the pile.And when the Gunners dropped two points at Brighton on Saturday evening – courtesy of the Joao Pedro penalty decision that split opinion – Liverpool had the chance to really make them pay when they hosted a Manchester United side who travelled to Anfield seemingly already plucked and ready for the oven.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOnly it didn’t work out that way.Liverpool delivered arguably their worst display of the campaign and were fortunate that Harry Maguire did not take all three points for United deep in stoppage time.‘The ref made a mistake’ – Virgil van Dijk furious at Bergvall’s winner moments after Spurs star should have seen redFan unhappiness at the apparent contract game being played by Trent Alexander-Arnold saw some home supporters vent at the England right-back, while doubts over the long-term futures of Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk will persist until they put pen to paper on new deals.Further grumblings – and not just at referee Stuart Atwell – came in the wake of another sub-par performance when they returned to N17 against Spurs in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg last week.And while Liverpool would remain favourites even if they slip up at Nottingham Forest, the mood music might start to change – with the possibility that we really are in for a title race, rather than a procession.Slot, long enough in the game to know that a couple of ragged performances are only to be expected given the sheer intensity of the fixture list, has done everything not to show concern.After all, Liverpool did not exactly lose anything last week. They remain in charge of their own Prem destiny and will back themselves to overturn the first-leg deficit when Tottenham arrive on Merseyside next month.But Forest do not have to be told a gameplan by Nuno – they already know it inside out.Unlike many of the sides who have been stripped bare by Liverpool’s attacking insurgencies, Forest will rely on their own approach to catch the visitors on the counter.The defensive solidity that has seen Forest concede just 19 goals – the same as Liverpool and only one more than Arsenal – is a major reason Nuno’s men go into the match in an unexpected third place.Win it and shades of Leicester’s 2016 triumph will be resurrected. After all, Forest will be within three points of the summit.A second Prem defeat of the season for Liverpool would raise Arsenal’s hopes as well, especially as the Reds have to travel to Brentford and Bournemouth either side of hosting Ipswich in their next three top-flight matches.Yet a Liverpool win, ending any talk of a “blip” before it has a chance to gain traction, could be a genuine hammer blow – especially as it would put added pressure on Mikel Arteta’s Gunners ahead of the North London derby on Wednesday.Slot’s team for the FA Cup win over Accrington on Saturday signalled his awareness of the importance of Tuesday’s game in the greater picture.Potential Arsenal title boostLiverpool cannot win, or lose, the league title at the City Ground. There is nearly half a season to go.But three more points in their quest to raise the trophy in front of their own fans for the first time since 1990 – Jurgen Klopp’s 2020 triumph saw muted celebrations in front of an empty Kop because of the pandemic – and it will be hard to see what could stop them.Conversely, anything that opens the door, even by a chink, will bring additional scrutiny of Liverpool’s depth and determination.Arsenal – and Forest – will sense there is a vulnerability. The fans of all three sides will intensify those elements.READ MORE SUN STORIESRemember, too, it was in the corresponding early January midweek fixtures in 2016 that Leicester survived an inquisition by Spurs to squeeze a 1-0 win that was to make a huge difference in the run-in.Who would have thought Forest against Liverpool, two weeks after Christmas, might be the biggest game of the season so far? But it feels like it is. More

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      Alexander Isak is Arsenal’s dream signing but there are six more realistic January striker transfer targets

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      ARSENAL’s desperation for more firepower was glaring in their FA Cup exit to Manchester United.The Gunners produced 26 SHOTS in the third round tie but had just one goal to show for it as several players missed chances to win the match.Mikel Arteta needs more firepower in his squadCredit: AFPKai Havertz has missed big chances in back-to-back defeatsCredit: APStriker Kai Havertz was guilty of missing the best two opportunities to win the game, and also saw his penalty saved in the shoot-out which proved decisive.That has renewed talk that Arsenal need to sign a striker, with former forward Theo Walcott claiming things have gone a bit stale.Walcott told BBC Sport: “It’s like everyone else has said before. Arsenal need a striker at this time because it would have been a completely different story.”Arsenal have gone from being a free-flowing forward line, exciting the crowd, to going a bit stale. You need players to do something differently and they haven’t got that at the moment.”READ MORE ON ARSENALArsenal dream of signing Alexander Isak from Newcastle, and were linked with a move three years ago before he joined the Magpies.But the Swede is now hot property after proving himself as one of the best goalscorers in the Premier League, so the Gunners could be priced out of a move with Newcastle valuing him at a staggering £150MILLION.That means Arsenal will realistically have to look elsewhere this window, and SunSport has taken a look at six targets that could genuinely make the move to the Emirates this month…Viktor GyokeresViktor Gyokeres is prolific in front of goalCredit: EPAAnother Swede, Gyokeres would certainly fit the mould after blossoming at Sporting.Most read in FootballHe made the step up from Championship Coventry seamlessly and has 75 goals in 80 games in Portugal.Gyokeres, 26, scores all types of goals including free-kicks and penalties, and his pace and power could devastate Prem defences in a style akin to Erling Haaland.Arsenal vs Manchester United: Player Ratings (2)However Gyokeres is attracting plenty of attention and has been linked with a move to Manchester United to re-unite with Ruben Amorim.Marcus RashfordMarcus Rashford could leave Man Utd this monthCredit: ReutersAfter being dropped by Amorim the United star looks to be on the way out this month, possibly on loan although £40m could be enough to lure him away permanently.The likes of AC Milan and Juventus have been linked, while some reports have claimed Arsenal have also made contact.The Gunners could do with a goalscoring left winger as Gabriel Martinelli has just six goals this season, while a move for Rashford, 27, could revitalise his career.Victor OsimhenArsenal are long-term admirers of Victor OsimhenCredit: GettyOsimhen has long been linked with a move to the Prem with one of Arsenal, Chelsea or United his likely destination.He made a shock loan move to Galatasaray in the summer but a hefty bid could lead Napoli to recall the striker before selling him on.The Gunners reportedly turned down the chance to sign Osimhen in the previous window as he was too expensive, but with 18 months left on his deal Arsenal could negotiate a lower price.Osimhen, 26, has 13 goals in 17 games this season and could be the focal point Mikel Arteta needs to start winning trophies.Benjamin SeskoBenjamin Sesko turned down the Gunners in the summerCredit: GettyThe RB Leipzig striker ruled himself out of a summer move but with his side out of the Champions League after a disastrous six defeats in six games, he may be more open to a transfer this month.Arsenal are well-known admirers of Sesko, 21, who continues to show an eye for goal in Germany.He has found the net 12 times in 24 games this term, including three goals in Europe, and has time on his side to develop into a world class talent.At around £50m he is more affordable than the previous targets mentioned, although his price will likely rise if he continues his rich vein of form.Randal Kolo MuaniRandal Kolo Muani is available on loan this monthCredit: GettyKolo Muani, 26, has failed to match his £76m price tag since joining Paris Saint-Germain but his ability to play across the front three is exactly what Arsenal need, particularly with Bukayo Saka out injured.He has scored just two goals but he is understood to be available on loan this month, and Arteta may believe he can get the best out of the Frenchman.His signing could also give the Gunners the chance to get one over on rivals Tottenham, who have also been linked to Kolo Muani this month.Evan FergusonArsenal are targeting Evan Ferguson this monthCredit: GettyArsenal are reportedly targeting the Brighton striker for a move this month.He has been linked with a loan switch to Fulham or West Ham but Arsenal could splash the cash to sign him permanently.READ MORE SUN STORIESFerguson has stagnated this season in front of goal with injuries causing him to have a stop-start campaign.But he has previously been compared to Harry Kane and at 20-years-old he still has plenty of time to develop into a Premier League goal machine.Arsenal’s search for a strikerBy Jordan DaviesWITH Thierry Henry in his pomp, Arsenal went 49 Prem games unbeaten from May 2003 to October 2004.Over two decades on, Mikel Arteta’s Gunners are in danger of seeing their season unravel in spectacular style after just one goal from 49 shots across two games.The difference? Among other things, a world class scorer like club legend Henry who netted 39 league goals in that record-breaking 17-month stretch.And if Arsenal are to relive the glory days of Arsene Wenger’s title-winning 2004 Invincibles this term under Arteta, money must be spent on something they have not had since Mr Va Va Voom strutted his stuff in North London.A snarling, selfish, goal-getting machine to drag them over the line for major trophies.That historic 49-game run 21 years ago was ended at the hands of Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United in controversial fashion at Old Trafford thanks to Ruud van Nistelrooy’s emphatic penalty.And in another spicy meeting between the two sides on Sunday, spot-kicks settled an FA Cup third round tie at the Emirates, this time ending with Joshua Zirkzee’s shoot-out-winning strike.But in truth, Arsenal were their own worst enemies, and not for the first time, scoring just once from 26 shots having failed to find the net from 23 shots in their Carabao Cup semi-final first leg 2-0 defeat to Newcastle on home soil.Kai Havertz wasted a hatful of glaring chances against a struggling 10-man United outfit fit for a true marksman in normal time before the German missed the crucial 12-yarder.Arteta has insisted this current crop have an eye for goal, citing broken scoring records over the past two years – bagging more goals [114] in 2024 at their highest rate [2.28 per game] since 1963.And according to the Spaniard, splashing the cash on a proper striker will NOT solve the problem, especially with injuries to key players blighting this campaign so far.Gabriel Jesus is the latest crocked star – the Brazilian facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after being carried off on a stretcher early on against United with a knee injury, while star man Bukayo Saka is set to be out until at least March following hamstring surgery.Arteta reiterated again on Sunday: “I understand guys [signing a striker], but I cannot love our players more. And I focus very much on the ones that we have to perform at the highest level.“That’s it. The rest is not in our hands, in my hands.”But Arteta’s cries for calm and patience are falling on deaf ears, while piercing eyes are turning to co-owners Stan and Josh Kroenke to invest in one defining reinforcement.Arsenal are economically in a good place, but there are currently not in a position to fork out over £100m for top target and Toon sensation Alexander Isak, nor are they willing to rip up their wage structure for a promising talent they like the look of in Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams.Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres and Red Bull Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko are also admired, but they will not be cheap, and can they replicate their form from Portugal and Germany in the Prem?A diamond in the rough who is affordable, under the radar and ready to hit the ground running right now in the toughest league on the planet is required.Whether that exists in this market is another question entirely, something Arteta cannot blame on anyone else after prioritising other areas of his squad in recent windows.And without that final piece to the puzzle, Arsenal are likely to fall short for a third-straight year, finishing second to an Erling Haaland-inspired Manchester City in both 2022/23 and 2023/24.For all the progress and promise, this could very well be Arteta’s Achilles heel – one that ends up leaving an unwelcome stain on a tenure that has teased the fan base with a return to the summit of English Football.Skipper Martin Odegaard – who missed a 72nd minute penalty with the scores at 1-1 – echoed the thoughts of most frustrated Arsenal supporters.He said: “It’s not good enough. We could have been a bit sharper in front of goal, in the last pass, the last shot, the finish, the decision-making.”Of course, Arsenal remain in with a shout of lifting silverware this term, even without an Henry-like figure leading the line.The Carabao Cup final is within reach should they overturn a daunting score line at St James’ Park next month, their quest for the title is not out of reach, even if they remain six points off leaders Liverpool who have a game in hand, and their Champions League form has been promising.Yet we are seeing cracks in the foundations that cannot go ignored, and a feeling it could all come crumbling down before too long. More

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      Bayern Munich set to join Chelsea in Kobbie Mainoo transfer race as Man Utd star demands new £200k-a-week deal

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      BAYERN MUNICH are set to join the race for Kobbie Mainoo, SunSport can reveal.The Manchester United midfielder could be on his way out of Old Trafford if the club are unable to afford his wage demands.Bayern Munich are interested in Kobbie MainooCredit: GettyMainoo – whose current £20,000-a-week contract expires in 2027 – is hoping for a fresh deal worth £200,000-a-week.But United are believed to be reluctant to go that high – which has led to reports Mainoo could leave the club either during this window or over the summer.Chelsea are at the front of the queue for the midfielder, but SunSport has learned that the London club will not be the only side chasing him.German giants Bayern are also long-term admirers and are planning to make a move if he becomes available.READ MORE ON MAN UTDIt comes days after Ruben Amorim challenged Mainoo to show he deserves to join Man Utd’s high earners.Despite Mainoo’s meteoric rise, the England star is one of their lowest earners and wants a ten-fold increase on his salary.Amorim knows the 19-year-old midfielder is a jewel in the Old Trafford crown.Yet the United chief insists Mainoo still needs plenty of polishing and said: “Kobbie has been improving a lot over the last few matches.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“But I think you guys feel like he is the finished product — he is not.“He is really good but can be so much better. He has so much potential to grow up even more.”Man Utd fans say ‘call the game off’ as Ruben Amorim confirms major line-up decision for Arsenal FA Cup clash It has been an amazing 18 months for Mainoo, who is currently earning £20k-a-week.He missed the start of last season with an injury sustained on the summer tour, but after joining the first-team in November and making a huge impact he soon became a regular.Mainoo ended an epic breakout campaign with the deciding goal as star man in United’s FA Cup final win over City.He also impressed in United’s last two games, the impressive draw at Anfield against Liverpool and the FA Cup win over Arsenal at the Emirates.Man Utd ratings vs Arsenal as Maguire and Co dig deep to win after Dalot’s moment of madnessMANCHESTER UNITED produced a heroic effort to squeeze past Arsenal and into the FA Cup’s fourth round on penalties.The Red Devils were forced to dig deep at the Emirates following Diogo Dalot’s 61st minute red card.On a freezing cold afternoon in North London, SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rates and slates each United performer…ALTAY BAYINDIR – 8Poor punch up in the air which allowed the ball to fall nicely for Gabriel to finish.Redeemed himself with a brilliant penalty save to keep the score level, before superbly denying Declan Rice twice.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7Was assured on and off the ball if unspectacular. Got his body on the line as the Gunners pushed for a winner.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 8Solid in defence and kept the backline well organised. Produced the best tackle of the match on the goalline to deny Leandro Trossard a certain goal.HARRY MAGUIRE – 8Commanding in the air and made several key blocks but gave away the penalty which Arsenal missed to go in front.Got away with an earlier error as he failed to clear – the ball landed at Kai Havertz’s feet but he somehow skewed wide with his effort.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 7Had to be on high alert to deal with the movement of Arsenal forwards but it was a task he managed well.DIOGO DALOT – 3Booked for a mistimed lunge on Lewis-Skelly. He followed that up with another silly, late foul on Merino with the ball about to go out of play for his second yellow. Stupid red card.MANUEL UGARTE – 7A firefighter all across the pitch for his side, although spent most of the match in his own half given Arsenal’s dominance.Was booked for one foul too many just before the hour mark and was lucky to escape a red card as he went head-to-head with Havertz after the penalty incident.KOBBIE MAINOO – 6Lively in the middle and kept a close eye on Jorginho. Looked sharp on the ball and showed some clever touches.Should have done better to head clear before Gabriel’s equaliser.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Always an outlet on the counter which was much needed for the Red Devils.Made the most of a Gabriel error to burst in on goal and pass across to Fernandes to score.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Was booked for throwing a trademark tantrum after claiming he was fouled on the edge of the box when lining up a shot.Showed his class with a brilliant first-time finish which he bent around a defender into the far corner.RASMUS HOJLUND – 3Failed to provide the focal point that United badly needed, which meant almost every pass forward was dealt with by the Arsenal centre-halves. Was fortunate there was no VAR to take a look at his apparent elbow on William Saliba, which left the Arsenal star bloodied.SUBSTITUTESAmad (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Lively on the counter too but just lacking a bit of quality – though was outnumbered every time he got the ball.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 80mins) – 6Some very clever touches when he came on and provided a presence up front at a time United badly needed it.Toby Collyer (for Mainoo, 80mins) – 5Showed plenty of energy but was missing quality in some areas.Tyrell Malacia (for Ugarte, extra-time) – 6Stuck to his task well.Leno Yoro (for Maguire, 104) – 6Did his job well during the closing stages of the match. Converted his penalty in the shoot-out with aplomb. More

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      ‘He sent Saliba back to St Etienne’ say fans as Joshua Zirkzee nutmegs Arsenal defender TWICE before he falls over

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      JOSHUA ZIRKZEE embarrassed William Saliba during Manchester United’s FA Cup win over Arsenal.The Dutchman had a match to remember as he netted the winning penalty in the shoot-out to send United through to the fourth round.Joshua Zirkzee brought the ball down and flicked it between William Saliba’s legsHe then nutmegged his opponent a second time with a quick change of directionA befuddled Saliba fell over as Zirkzee created an attackHe only came on in the 80th minute but it did not take him long to make an impact.Zirkzee proved a big threat on the counter-attack for the ten-man Red Devils and showcased his skill and trickery.Just six minutes after coming on he gave Saliba the runaround, leaving fans aghast.Zirkzee, 23, brought the ball down and with his second touch flicked it between Saliba’s legs.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThat put him under pressure with three Arsenal players swarming, including Saliba.But another magical touch from Zirkzee saw him nutmeg Saliba again, causing the defender to fall over which allowed him space and time to feed Amad, who then passed back to Zirkzee who had a shot on goal.Fans were wowed by the skill and used it as an opportunity to poke fun at Saliba.One reacted saying: “Zirkzee sending Saliba back to Saint-Etienne.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSMan Utd ratings vs Arsenal as Maguire and Co dig deep to win after Dalot’s moment of madnessMANCHESTER UNITED produced a heroic effort to squeeze past Arsenal and into the FA Cup’s fourth round on penalties.The Red Devils were forced to dig deep at the Emirates following Diogo Dalot’s 61st minute red card.On a freezing cold afternoon in North London, SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rates and slates each United performer…ALTAY BAYINDIR – 8Poor punch up in the air which allowed the ball to fall nicely for Gabriel to finish.Redeemed himself with a brilliant penalty save to keep the score level, before superbly denying Declan Rice twice.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7Was assured on and off the ball if unspectacular. Got his body on the line as the Gunners pushed for a winner.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 8Solid in defence and kept the backline well organised. Produced the best tackle of the match on the goalline to deny Leandro Trossard a certain goal.HARRY MAGUIRE – 8Commanding in the air and made several key blocks but gave away the penalty which Arsenal missed to go in front.Got away with an earlier error as he failed to clear – the ball landed at Kai Havertz’s feet but he somehow skewed wide with his effort.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 7Had to be on high alert to deal with the movement of Arsenal forwards but it was a task he managed well.DIOGO DALOT – 3Booked for a mistimed lunge on Lewis-Skelly. He followed that up with another silly, late foul on Merino with the ball about to go out of play for his second yellow. Stupid red card.MANUEL UGARTE – 7A firefighter all across the pitch for his side, although spent most of the match in his own half given Arsenal’s dominance.Was booked for one foul too many just before the hour mark and was lucky to escape a red card as he went head-to-head with Havertz after the penalty incident.KOBBIE MAINOO – 6Lively in the middle and kept a close eye on Jorginho. Looked sharp on the ball and showed some clever touches.Should have done better to head clear before Gabriel’s equaliser.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Always an outlet on the counter which was much needed for the Red Devils.Made the most of a Gabriel error to burst in on goal and pass across to Fernandes to score.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Was booked for throwing a trademark tantrum after claiming he was fouled on the edge of the box when lining up a shot.Showed his class with a brilliant first-time finish which he bent around a defender into the far corner.RASMUS HOJLUND – 3Failed to provide the focal point that United badly needed, which meant almost every pass forward was dealt with by the Arsenal centre-halves. Was fortunate there was no VAR to take a look at his apparent elbow on William Saliba, which left the Arsenal star bloodied.SUBSTITUTESAmad (for Garnacho, 80mins) – 6Lively on the counter too but just lacking a bit of quality – though was outnumbered every time he got the ball.Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 80mins) – 6Some very clever touches when he came on and provided a presence up front at a time United badly needed it.Toby Collyer (for Mainoo, 80mins) – 5Showed plenty of energy but was missing quality in some areas.Tyrell Malacia (for Ugarte, extra-time) – 6Stuck to his task well.Leno Yoro (for Maguire, 104) – 6Did his job well during the closing stages of the match. Converted his penalty in the shoot-out with aplomb.Another added: “Saliba made Zirkzee look like prime Messi. That’s pretty hard to do.”A third wrote: “Zirkzee just ended William Saliba.”Arsenal vs Manchester United: Player Ratings (2)And another commented: “Best defender in the world they said 😂” More

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      Arsenal player ratings: Gabriel Martinelli lively but woeful Kai Havertz hurts Gunners in Man Utd FA Cup clash

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      KAI HAVERTZ missed two sitters and a penalty in the shoot-out as Arsenal were dumped out of the FA Cup.Manchester United’s chances of going through looked dashed when Diogo Dalot was shown a red card, particularly after Gabriel equalised minutes later.Gabriel redeemed his mistake by firing in a brilliant equaliserCredit: ReutersBruno Fernandes opened the scoring following an error by GabrielCredit: GettyThe match had plenty of needle with United perhaps lucky only one player saw redCredit: GettyKai Havertz missed two golden opportunities to win the matchCredit: EPAUnited started slowly but grew into the game and looked a lot more assured at defending set-pieces – their undoing on their visit to this ground last month.Arsenal failed to create an opening in the first half and were undone minutes after half-time when Gabriel’s mistake resulted in Bruno Fernandes firing into the top corner.Only Martin Odegaard provided creativity in midfield with Mikel Merino a passenger – except when he spurned a good chance to score.However the Arsenal captain also missed from the penalty spot after Havertz was felled in the area, while the German missed two brilliant opportunities to net a winner.READ MORE ON ARSENALHavertz missed a header from yards out in the Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg defeat to Newcastle in mid-week, and he somehow shot wide with the goal gaping late on here.Declan Rice also came close to a winner on multiple occasions as Arsenal’s threat was mostly reduced to hopeful crosses and long-range shots.The Gunners failed to find a breakthrough so a penalty shoot-out was required to decide the match, with Joshua Zirkzee proving the hero after Altay Bayindir saved from Kai Havertz.Here is how SunSport’s Kealan Hughes rated the Gunners display.Most read in FootballDavid Raya – 6Could do nothing about United’s goal and produced a stellar stop to deny Zirkzee in extra-time.Man Utd and Arsenal in Matheus Cunha transfer battle with Wolves star ready to make summer moveJurrien Timber – 7Very effective on the overlap and worked well being fed by Odegaard.Tested a couple of times by Alejandro Garnacho who proved a problem on the counter-attack.William Saliba – 7Dealt with Hojlund well although the striker did not pose much of a threat.Gabriel – 6Terrible error to lose possession to Alejandro Garnacho who was put through on goal and set up Bruno Fernandes to score.Made amends with a brilliant finish Bukayo Saka would have been proud of.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 5A quiet game at left-back, probably should have got forward more particularly after United went down to ten men and had Garnacho filling in at right-back.Jorginho – 5Kept things ticking over in the middle and was always an outlet for his team-mates.Mikel Merino – 4Anonymous in the middle. Difficult to see what he brings to this Arsenal side.Missed a good chance to put his side ahead moments after the equaliser and was taken off shortly after that.Martin Odegaard – 7A pleasure to watch. Made everything happen, his ability to turn on the ball in the middle of the park created opportunities time after time.But he missed the chance to win the game from the penalty spot.Gabriel Jesus – 6Lovely pass to break the lines and put through Martinelli, who found the back of the net but was offside.Fell awkwardly when defending a cross in the first half and was carried off on a stretcher.Gabriel Martinelli – 7Was the main attacking threat in the first half with his direct style causing the visitors all sorts of problems.Produced good movement and a finish to match but his goal was disallowed for offside.Kai Havertz – 3Won the penalty after a deft touch past Maguire.But he missed two sitters including one just three minutes from time to win the match, and his penalty miss proved decisive in the shoot-out.SubsRaheem Sterling (for Jesus, 40mins) – 6Looked sharp when he got the ball and did well in the build-up to Havertz winning the penalty.Declan Rice (for Merino, 73mins) – 6Almost scored with what might have been his first touch but his header was brilliantly saved.Should have grabbed the winner in the dying moments but his low effort was again superbly matched by Bayindir.Leandro Trossard (for Lewis-Skelly, extra-time) – 5Will wonder how he didn’t score after Matthijs de Ligt produced a goalline clearance to deny him.Blazed over with an effort from just outside the box.READ MORE SUN STORIESThomas Partey (for Timber, 101mins) – 5Put in a few good crosses. Came close to a winner with an effort that was deflected narrowly over the bar.Kieran Tierney (for Jorginho, 113mins) – His arrival onto the pitch was greeted with a big cheer but he did not have much time to impact the match. More

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      AC Milan hit by little-known rule which means they CANNOT sign both Marcus Rashford and Kyle Walker in transfer window

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      AC MILAN must choose between Kyle Walker and Marcus Rashford as a little-known rule stops them from signing both.The two England stars have been linked with January loan moves to the Italian giants.Kyle Walker is looking to leave Man CityCredit: AlamyMarcus Rashford wants out of Man Utd on loan this monthCredit: GettyItalian papers say Milan want Rashford and WalkerSunSport understands Walker is wanted by Inter Milan, with La Gazzetta dello Sport reporting that their city rivals are also keen.But Milan cannot bring him and Rashford to the Rossoneri together due to Serie A rules.The club has just one spot remaining in their squad for a British player following a change in regulations after Brexit.Restrictions say Italian teams can only bring in two non-EU squad members each year, with one bonus English or Albanian ace permitted.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMilan signed Serbian international Strahinja Pavlovic and Brazil star Emerson Royal in the summer to fill their two non-EU slots.And with just their bonus English spot available, the San Siro club must therefore choose Walker or Rashford.The rules state: “Serie A clubs only, while respecting the current laws on foreign worker entry flows into Italy, the registration of only one British professional footballer and one Albanian professional footballer per club, coming from abroad, is allowed, outside the limitations provided.”New players with British or Albanian citizenship, registered as per the above, may transfer exclusively to other Serie A clubs during the 2024/2025 season, in a transfer period different from the one in which they were registered coming from abroad.”Walker has been linked with a move away from Manchester City and boss Pep Guardiola revealed yesterday that he is willing to quit the champions.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSGuardiola said: “Two days ago, Kyle asked to explore the option to play abroad.”Saudi Arabia clubs are also keen on Walker and they are supposedly ready to pay him £400,000-a-week.Which football clubs could Marcus Rashford join?But SunSport understands a move to Middle East is not being considered as Walker wants to earn a place in England’s 2026 World Cup squad.As for Rashford, there is strong interest from Milan about a loan deal.His agent and brother Dwaine flew to Italy to meet with chiefs last week.The Manchester United man’s former team-mate Zlatan Ibrahimovic plays a key role in Milan’s recruitment. But SunSport understands Rashford’s whopping £325,000-a-week wages are proving a major stumbling block.The Red Devils may have to pay half of his wages to facilitate his move away.Closer to home, West Ham and Tottenham are reportedly keen on Rashford.The player has expressed his desire to leave Old Trafford, having not featured in any of United’s last six games.Rashford revealed his intention to quit last month, saying: “For me, personally, I think I’m ready for a new challenge and the next steps.”When I leave it’s going to be, ‘No hard feelings.'”You’re not going to have any negative comments from me about Manchester United. That’s me as a person.”If I know that a situation is already bad I’m not going to make it worse.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’ve seen how other players have left in the past and I don’t want to be that person.”When I leave, I’ll make a statement, and it will be from me.” More

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      Kyle Walker, 34, lined up for shock Inter Milan loan transfer in January window after asking to quit Man City

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      WANTAWAY ace Kyle Walker is being lined up for a sensational loan move to Inter Milan, SunSport can reveal.The Manchester City star, 34, dramatically asked to quit the club for a move abroad.Kyle Walker is ready to swap Man City for Inter MilanCredit: GettyAnd SunSport now understands Inter Milan are leading the chase for the England right-back.Representatives for the player have been in contact with the Serie A giants and a deal is being thrashed out.Walker’s desire to leave the Etihad was announced by boss Pep Guardiola after their 8-0 mauling of Salford in the FA Cup.Pep revealed he was left out of the third-round thrashing after informing the club of his wish to leave.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA source said: “It’s fast moving but the deal is on the table and it’s being worked on.”A loan move to Inter Milan will give Kyle the opportunity to start afresh.”His difficulties off the pitch are well documented and he needs space to reset.”He simply can’t get that in the Premier League.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”The club and his agent are in touch with Inter Milan and there’s an expectation this deal can be done quickly.”Walker is desperate to reach 100 caps for the Three Lions and currently has 93.Roy Keane fumes at ’embarrassing’ Kyle Walker dive during Man City’s clash against Man UtdHe would need to make the plane for the World Cup next year to become the first black footballer to get a century of caps.The source added: “He hasn’t given up on that dream.”That’s why Saudi is and always has been a non-starter. Kyle is a fierce competitor.”He wants to leave a legacy at the end of his career.”Walker went to see director of football Txiki Begiristain on Thursday to seek an exit from the Etihad.Guardiola said: “Two days ago, Kyle asked to explore the option to play abroad.”He asked after the Treble, when Bayern Munich wanted him, but the offer was not good enough.”I prefer to play players whose mind is here. Kyle asked to explore but it doesn’t mean it’s going to happen because you never know.”We cannot understand the success that the club had these years without Kyle. It is impossible.”He has been our right-back and given us something we didn’t have. He’s been amazing.”But now in his mind, for many reasons, he would like to explore if he can go to another country to play his last years.”Asked if Walker would be granted his wish if he said he wanted to leave, Guardiola said: “Of course. I’m convinced there’s no one in our job that doesn’t want to be here, who can perform and be exactly what they want to be.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWalker has won 17 major honours with City since his £50million move from Tottenham in 2017.His accolades include six Prem titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups and the Champions League. More