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    Cristiano Ronaldo’s special bond with Sir Alex Ferguson revealed, from five Ballon d’Or wins to Man Utd showdown talks

    WHEN Cristiano Ronaldo signed for Manchester United as a talented 17-year-old in 2003, the wheels were set in motion for one of football’s special bonds.It started a powerful relationship between the handsome young star and his dour Scottish manager, Sir Alex Ferguson.
    The moment Sir Alex Ferguson and Cristiano Ronaldo met a special bond formedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    Sir Alex congratulates Ronaldo for winning Euro 2016Credit: Getty – Contributor
    The Manchester United manager go on to become a father-figure to the Portuguese superstar.
    He played a  key role in helping Ronaldo return to the club that made him nearly 20 years later, in 2021.
    And now Sir Alex, 89,  is being be called in to plead with CR7 to stay at the club after one turbulent season.Ronaldo has been linked with a move to Atletico Madrid and Sporting Lisbon, after reportedly growing disillusioned at the club.
    Until today, he skipped training – but has now reported to Carrington to talk about his future along with his agent Jorge Mendes.
    Joining the discussion will be Ferguson, who will ultimately do his best to persuade his dear friend to stick with the Premier League giants.
    It’s a ploy United use last summer, when it seemed nailed on that the all-time leading international goalscorer would sign for United’s arch-rivals Manchester City.
    However, Fergie stepped in at the 11th hour to stop the move in its tracks.
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    “A lot of people played their part (in bringing Ronaldo back) and I contributed knowing that really Cristiano wanted to come here and that was important,” he told Viaplay before the ex-Real Madrid star made his return to Manchester United.
    Ronaldo, himself, acknowledged the manager’s contribution. “PS — Sir Alex, this one is for you…” he wrote in a social media post celebrating his move from Juventus.
    Now, the fiery Scot has said Ronaldo deserves a sixth Ballon d’Or title, after his goalscoring exploits for club and country.
    Through the years, Fergie has been credited with making him the player he is today.
    Sparing him the infamous hairdryer treatment, Fergie filled Ronaldo’s head with confidence – giving him the freedom that allowed him to become a five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
    The “Boss”, as Ronaldo affectionately calls him, was even there for his protege’s most famous moment for his country – winning Euro 2016 – giving him a hug from the stands as he collected his winners’ medal.
    Their father/son relationship has blossomed through the years, so much so it was recently revealed that Ronaldo was set for a sensational return to Old Trafford until Fergie’s retirement in 2013 halted a deal.

    FAN BOY
    After Sir Alex retired, he enjoyed going to live events – from the Oscars to various European finals.
    At Euro 2016, Fergie was in the stands to watch Portugal defeat France 1-0 after extra-time.
    As the Portuguese players walked down the steps after receiving their medals, a proud Ferguson embraced Ronaldo and gave him a huge hug.
    Then, a year later he was a special guest at the 2017 Champions League final, in which Ronaldo won man of the match and scored twice in a 4-1 rout of Juventus.
    Of course, it was Fergie that give him his award that night.

    Ronaldo is given his man of the match award by Sir Alex after the Champions League final in 2017Credit: AP:Associated Press
    FAMILY COMES FIRST
    Back in 2005, as Ronaldo was beginning to establish himself at Old Trafford, his father Jose Dinis Aveiro fell ill in hospital after years of alcohol abuse.
    Immediately, Fergie ordered him to take compassionate leave – even though it meant his star player would miss key games during the season.
    “When my daddy was sick in London, and he was in hospital very bad in a coma,” Ronaldo revealed Sir Alex Ferguson: Secrets of Success’ in 2015.
    “I had a conversation with him [Ferguson] and I said: ‘Boss, I don’t feel good.’
    “We are in a key moment in the Champions League, and I said I don’t feel good and I wanna see my dad. He said: ‘Cristiano – you wanna go one day, two days, one week? You can go. I’m going to miss you here because you are important, but your daddy is the [priority].’
    “When he told me that, I feel like this guy is unbelievable. He is the father of football for me.”
    As the years have passed their relationship has been akin to a father and sonCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Fergie ordered Ronaldo to take compassionate leave when his father was on his death bedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    RED HERRING
    Fergie knew Ronaldo’s dream was to play for Real Madrid, and he wasn’t going to stop him from joining the La Liga giants.
    That said, he did try to pull a fast one when it was reported that Los Blancos were deep in talks with CR7.
    “You don’t think we’d get into a contract with that mob, do you?,” Sir Alex said back in 2008.
    “Jesus Christ. I wouldn’t sell them a virus. So that’s a no — there is no agreement between the clubs.”
    Six months later, Ronaldo moved to Spain – with Fergie in agreement all along.
    Ferguson never got in the way of Ronaldo’s dream to play for Real MadridCredit: AFP – Getty
    Ronaldo and Ferguson embrace at the end of a Champions League match between Man Utd and Real Madrid in 2013Credit: Getty Images – Getty
    A FITTING TRIBUTE
    In 2012, at the unveiling of a statue of Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford, Ronaldo made an appearance by video link to pay tribute to his former boss.
    He began by apologising for not being there in person because of his hectic schedule.
    “I think you 100 per cent deserve it for what we did with you,” Ronaldo continued in the clip.
    He even joked, “I hope to see you soon, because I need to practice my English, not my Scottish!”
    Sir Alex and Ronaldo have always been happy to praise one anotherCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    SPORTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR
    In 2013, Sir Alex Ferguson was the special recipient of the BBC Sports Personality Diamond Award for the show’s 60th edition.
    Again, Ronaldo took to video link to heap praise on Sir Alex.
    “You were like a football father to me,” Cristiano said.
    “You deserve this award because you are a fantastic manager, a fantastic person and the number one.”
    Ronaldo has referred to Fergie in the past as his football fatherCredit: Getty – Contributor

    FILM STAR
    In 2015, Cristiano Ronaldo’s amazing life made it to the big screen.
    He opened himself up to the world in his documentary ‘Ronaldo’ – which Fergie wasn’t going to miss for the world.
    The Scot stood side-by-side with Ronaldo on the red carpet for its premiere in London.
    Both beaming with pride, Ronaldo and Fergie looked like father and son.
    Sir Alex Ferguson stood side-by-side with Ronaldo at the premiere of his documentaryCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Again, the pair couldn’t hide their affection for one another
    MESSAGE OF SUPPORT
    When Sir Alex suffered a brain haemorrhage in 2018, Ronaldo and the whole footballing world were praying that he would pull through.
    Taking to Instagram, Ron shared an image of them together with the caption: “My thoughts and prayers are with you, my dear friend. Be strong, Boss!”
    Ferguson made a miraculous recovery and the pair met up when Juventus played Manchester United at Old Trafford.
    “A great coach and above all a wonderful man,” Ronaldo shared with a photo in a tweet.
    “Taught me so many things inside and outside the pitch. Great to see you in good shape, Boss!”
    A great coach and above all a wonderful man. Taught me so many things inside and outside the pitch. Great to see you in good shape, Boss! pic.twitter.com/Ql4dcuJvCW— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) October 24, 2018

    TEAR-JERKER
    In 2020, Ronaldo won the Portuguese Player of the Year award for a record 10th time.
    It was Fergie’s time to record a moving video message for his former student.
    “Congratulations on a great achievement and a wonderful night you’re going to have in Portugal,” Ferguson said in the clip.
    “I’m really sorry I can’t be with you, but I look back and see you as a young lad at 17 years of age who came to Manchester United, how you have progressed as a human being and a fantastic sportsman.
    Ronaldo receives the 2008 Ballon d’or from FergusonCredit: Offside
    Fergie has revealed he is eternally proud of the man Ronaldo became when he left Man UtdCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}latest football features.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    “I want to say to you, and your mother, and all your family, and all of your kids; well done.
    You have been an absolute pleasure for me to have known, to have worked with, and to have seen you progress into the footballer you were.
    “So, good luck, have a great night, and well done.” More

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    Lennox Lewis slammed Anthony Joshua for being ‘so tentative’ in Usyk loss and says he has to ‘learn and improve’

    LENNOX LEWIS criticised Anthony Joshua for being ‘so tentative’ in his loss to Oleksandr Usyk but said: ‘Learn from this and improve’. AJ decided against using his brute force and imposing frame as he tried to outbox slick southpaw Usyk.
    Anthony Joshua was beaten by Oleksandr Usyk at Tottenham last yearCredit: PA
    Lennox Lewis criticised Anthony Joshua for being ‘so tentative’ in defeat to Oleksandr UsykCredit: The Sun
    But it proved the wrong tactic as Joshua was comfortably bettered over the 12 round distance, surrendering his heavyweight titles.
    British legend Lewis – who has been embroiled in a feud with AJ over recent years – vented frustration at his fellow Olympic gold medallist.
    He tweeted on the night: “Gotta give it up to @usykaa on a great tactical performance tonight.
    “For @anthonyjoshua it’s not the end of the road, but u (sic) can’t be so tentative or wait till the 8th round to turn it on.
    “Learn from this and improve.”
    Lewis’ words may resonate for AJ on the former champion’s path to redemption.
    Joshua, 32, exercised his right to an immediate rematch which takes place on August 20 , much like he did in defeat to Andy Ruiz Jr in June 2019.
    He avenged defeat six months later and has already confirmed he will try and repeat history by taking his shot at redemption against Usyk.
    Oleksandr Usyk claims Anthony Joshua wasn’t even his hardest fight in damning verdict of Brit
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    Chelsea’s brilliant academy was nearly SHUT DOWN by ex-boss for being a ‘waste of time’, Michael Emenalo claims

    EX-CHELSEA chief Michael Emenalo claimed a former manager tried to CLOSE the club’s academy.Frank Lampard put his trust in the youth during his debut season in 2019-20 after the club were put under a transfer embargo – and managed to guide the young Blues into the Champions League.
    Michael Emenalo claims a former Chelsea boss tried shutting down the academyCredit: PA:Press Association
    And Chelsea have continued to have impressed ever since – now under the leadership of Thomas Tuchel – with academy graduates Mason Mount, Reece James, Andreas Christensen and Callum Hudson-Odoi, to name a few, all shining.
    But things could have turned out differently had a former boss succeeded in persuading Roman Abramovich to pull the plug on his youth funding.
    Emenalo, who served as Chelsea’s technical director between 2011 and 2017 after spending the previous four years as chief scout and assistant first team coach, worked above the likes of Jose Mourinho, Antonio Conte and Roberto Di Matteo.
    He claims former supremo Abramovich was urged to ditch his academy and focus instead on pouring money into the first team.
    But the Russian did not listen to his manager, and Emenalo reckons the decision is proving to be one of his best ever.
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#dcdddd;background-color:#ffffff;}.css-14dqn90{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(4px/2);margin-right:calc(4px/2);}.css-12an5ma{font-family:The Sun;font-size:20px;line-height:1.2;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;padding:1px 0px;}.css-12an5ma::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.261875em + -1px);}.css-12an5ma::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:calc(-0.25em + -1.3px);}.css-1tob514{color:rgba(32,134,98,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;margin-right:4px;}.css-1tob514:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}GET YOUR GOSS .css-1efa55o{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1efa55o:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Atletico to sell Griezmann for Ronaldo funds, Scamacca to West Ham DONE deal
    The former Monaco chief told the Telegraph: “I defended the academy when there was pressure and doubt and pessimism.
    “There was a time when there was a clamour to do more and a manager came in to make a presentation to say the academy was not necessary.
    “The argument was it takes too long, we don’t have time, we should use it to make some money here and there, and that the owner should stop pumping money into it because it seemed like a waste.
    “But that wasn’t my idea and I had to fight against it.
    “This is where I am very, very proud of the owner Roman Abramovich because of the trust he had in me and the willingness to listen to me and give the academy time.
    “He would not abandon it. He believed in it and in me, and I can’t thank him enough for that.” More

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    Six amazing transfers that never happened because of Wags, including Muller’s transfer to Man Utd blocked by wife

    FOOTBALLERS are constantly on the move, having to upheave their families.Some will even go abroad and have to settle on foreign shores unknown to them.
    Jack Rodwell revealed his move to Western Sydney Wanderers was inspired by his wife, but some Wags have scupper their partners’ transfersCredit: Getty
    Last year, Jack Rodwell signed for Western Sydney Wanderers, a move that he admits was inspired by his Aussie wife.
    But what about Wags who have scuppered their partners’ transfers?
    Here’s six who were told to stay put by their other halves.
    THOMAS MULLER TO MAN UTD
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}GET YOUR GOSS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Ronaldo ‘OPEN’ to joining Atletico, PSG’s HUGE fire sale INCLUDES Neymar
    Ex-Man Utd boss Louis Van Gaal revealed how Thomas Muller’s wife Lisa got in the way of a proposed £84million move to Old Trafford back in 2015.
    The anecdote, that German outlet Bild learned from a new book called Bayern Insider, even explains that a £16million-per-year pay packet wasn’t enough to sway the professional equestrian’s decision.
    “In 2015 it would have been possible if his wife had been a little more open to a transfer abroad,” Van Gaal said.
    “At least that was the reason Thomas gave my assistant Marcel Bout, who had had all the conversations with him, why the transfer had been rejected.”
    Lisa Muller blocked Thomas’ move to Man Utd because she didn’t want to go abroadCredit: Instagram @lisa.mueller.official
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    MAURO ICARDI TO NEWCASTLE
    In the Icardi household you get the feeling it’s his wife Wanda who wears the trousers, except when she’s sharing racy content on Instagram.
    Famously, anyone who wants to deal with the PSG forward has to go through the Argentinian beauty, who is his agent.
    Newly moneyed Newcastle thought they’d chance their arm with an offer for the out-of-favour forward last season.
    Wanda was reportedly having none of it. “Leaving Paris is not in Mauro and Wanda’s plans, it’s the last thing they want,” a source told Gazzetta dello Sport.
    “I don’t see Mauro joining another club soon.” Certainly not for Tyneside, anyway.
    Wanda Icardi doesn’t want to swap Paris for TynesideCredit: Social Media – Refer to Source
    OLIVIER GIROUD TO EVERTON
    The summer of 2017 gave Olivier Giroud and his wife Jennifer something to think about.
    With an offer on the table from Everton, where he would get more game-time after losing his first team spot at Arsenal, his future was in the balance.
    But then-manager Sam Allardyce revealed his French fancy wasn’t interested in shifting her possessions to Liverpool.
    “He [Giroud] doesn’t want to move north of London, I don’t think. Or his wife doesn’t. It is very important to the wives you know,” said Allardyce.
    “Normally they are the bosses, I say that with experience.”
    Arsene Wenger later stuck up for Giroud and denied this to be the case.
    Jessica Giroud said ‘Non’ to a move to EvertonCredit: Getty – Contributor
    LEWANDOWSKI TO PSG
    Before the French club added Neymar and Kylian Mbappe to their side, it was Robert Lewandowski who was reportedly a primary target in 2017 to lead their line.
    But, speculation surfaced that stunning nutritionist Anna didn’t want to go to Paris and he stayed with Bayern Munich.
    The Polish striker quashed the rumours, but did admit contact with a Ligue 1 team.
    “Yes, I have already had the opportunity to sign with clubs in France in the past,” Lewandowski told Telefoot.
    “My wife does not want to go to Paris? No, I’ve never heard anything so stupid. That has nothing to do with this, sometimes there are many parameters.”
    However, she was happy to endorse his move to Barcelona – dropping a cryptic message about his future when he was in discussions over a deal to the Camp Nou.
    Robert Lewandowski shot down rumours wife Anna was against a move to PSGCredit: Getty – Contributor
    SERGIO RAMOS TO MAN UTD
    The Spanish veteran appeared destined for the Theatre of Dreams, before he eventually settled for PSG last year.
    A mega salary of around £15million-per-year for two years was, perhaps, a bigger catalyst.
    However, it also appeared Manchester didn’t appeal to gorgeous TV presenter Pilar Rubio.
    Instead, the French capital offered her and their four sons a better life.
    Sergio Ramos was convinced by Wag Pilar Rubio that Paris was better for their familyCredit: Getty – Contributor
    ZIDANE TO MAN UTD
    Even managers have to listen to their wives.
    Zinedine Zidane was linked with a move to Manchester United to replace Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the Old Trafford hot seat last season, before Ralf Rangnick took the job on the interim and Erik ten Hag then became his successor.
    Although, that did not appeal to his dancer missus Veronique, who reportedly stood in the way of a move.
    The Daily Record said at the time, Zizou was interested in the job. But there’s one stumbling block in the way.
    The report insisted Veronique wasn’t keen on living in Manchester, and would prefer her husband to take a longer break. Code for: ‘We’re not going there!’
    Zinedine Zidane’s wife Veronique didn’t fancy a move to ManchesterCredit: EPA More

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    Zlatan Ibrahimovic threatened to break Rafael van der Vaart’s legs when they played together at Ajax

    ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC threatened to break Rafael van der Vaart’s legs when they played together on the same Ajax team.The former Spurs forward, 39, announced his retirement in 2018 after suffering an injury while training with Danish club Esbjerg fB.
    Rafael van der Vaart says Zlatan Ibrahimovic threatened to break his legs when they played together at AjaxCredit: AFP – Getty
    And reflecting on his career with FourFourTwo back in 2019, he opened up on his toxic relationship with Swedish icon Ibrahimovic.
    Van der Vaart admitted it is true that former Manchester United striker Zlatan said he would snap him in two.
    And delivering a huge understatement, ex-Real Madrid man Van der Vaart confessed the two of them “didn’t get along”.
    Quizzed on whether it was true Zlatan threatened to break his legs, Van der Vaart said: “Yes, he did say that, but Zlatan said it to everyone.
    The pair enjoyed success together at the Dutch club even though they did not get onCredit: Getty – Contributor
    “It’s also true that around that time things just weren’t working between the two of us.
    “But I would rather be in a team with people who are honest, like him, even if it means there are a few arguments.
    “But there wasn’t a specific moment we fell out. We generally didn’t get along well.”
    Van der Vaart was with famed Dutch club Ajax from 2000 to 2005 having spent seven years of his youth career there from 1993.
    Ibrahimovic threatened to break everyone’s legs, according to Van der VaartCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Ibrahimovic, now 40, moved to Ajax from Malmo in 2001 but left for Juventus in 2004. He now plays for AC Milan after a spell at MLS side LA Galaxy.
    It appears the pair never once saw eye-to-eye, with Holland star Van der Vaart insisting Ibrahimovic was “jealous” of him.
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    He said: “At that time we were both young and I was the best player in Ajax. He came to the club and believed that he was the best player at Ajax.
    “Back then he did not act like he does now and I think he was a bit jealous.
    “I did not have really big problems with him. It was just two egos converging in one place. I think I was a bigger problem for him than he was for me.”

    Malmo fans try to burn statue of Zlatan Ibrahimovic after he buys shares in rival club Hammarby More

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    Why Thomas Muller is funniest man in football, from Bayern Munich team-mates’ pranks to fooling around with horse, Dave

    STAND up for the funniest man in football… When Thomas Muller isn’t banging in goals for Bayern Munich, the German forward is making us laugh. Thomas Muller loves to play the class clown at Bayern MunichCredit: Instagram @esmuellert

    Bayern shared pictures of Muller in his childhood bedroom when he signed a new dealCredit: Getty

    And they also shared an image of the German in the same Bayern kit as a kidCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk

    Only this week he had the football world in hysterics when he savagely shot down a fans’ wish that he sign for Arsenal by laughing and saying a stern ‘No!’ Back in May, Muller, now 32, signed a new deal with the club that’ll keep him at Bayern till 2024. Hilariously, it was announced with a picture of the German idol sitting in a room reminiscent of his own during his childhood. Speaking about his new deal, Muller said: “I’m delighted to have extended my contract with FC Bayern Munich until 2024 today. “The journey we’ve been on since I joined the FCB academy in 2000 has been a fantastic success story up to now. “It gives me immense pleasure to hold up the red colours year after year, on and off the pitch – even if the wind blows in your face from time to time. “So, let’s keep going together!” Married to professional horse trainer Lisa, he also owns a nag called Dave, loves dressing up in Lederhosen and is always clowning around. If that’s not enough, he’s calls himself the title of managing director of carrots because of his horse stable, and his madcap antics keep him and his team-mates entertained.
    HE LOVES FANCY DRESS
    Come October, and those brilliant pictures Bayern Munich share of their players enjoying the annual Bavarian beer festival, look out for Muller. You’ll find him dressed to the nines in traditional Lederhosen, pretending to down beers and joshing with his team-mates. He’s always got a smile on his face and isn’t afraid to dance Gangnam Style. See below! And since we’re speaking of beer, Thomas once poured a cold one over German TV presenter Markus Othmer after winning the 2014 title.
    Thomas Muller loves dressing up during OktoberfestCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Thomas Muller enjoys Oktoberfest with wife Lisa MullerCredit: AFP – Getty
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VnKQVXtFfo  
    Thomas Muller drenches TV presenter Markus Othmer in beerCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Thomas Muller does love to waste a good pintCredit: Getty – Contributor
    HORSING AROUND
    A notorious prankster, Muller doesn’t have a horse called Star or Spirit or Lucky… he’s opted for the common human name Dave instead. His missus has her own stables, which Muller calls himself the managing director of carrots at because Bayern permit him from riding. Muller regularly attends events his dressage rider other half competes in and loves spending time with Dave. “I come here to watch if everything’s fine,” he once replied when asked why he loves horses. “And for the carrots. I’m the managing director of carrots! I watch the dogs. Sometimes I help a little bit but it’s her business. “I enjoy it a lot. They make me feel comfortable, the attitude and what they look like and (the way they) live their lives.
    “It’s fun. It’s easy to relax around horses.” Absolutely a-neigh-zing.
    Thomas Muller loves to horse around with his nag DaveCredit: Instagram @esmuellert

    Thomas Muller regularly attends equestrian events in Munich with DaveCredit: Rex Features
    Lisa Muller rides Dave at the Munich Indoors FEI Horse Show Jumping eventCredit: Rex Features
    FORGET THE TRANSFER TALK
    Thomas knows the best way to avoid those pesky transfer rumours… and it’s a take on the old mobile phone trick. Celebrities around the globe know the best way to avoid questions from reporters when leaving an airport is to pretend you’re on a call. Thomas took that one-step further, fooling us into thinking his passport was his mobile when he walked through a Munich terminal. Reporters tried to ask if he was moving to Manchester United, but Muller couldn’t hear them with his passport pressed up against his ear. What makes it even funnier is there was actually some truth to the rumours! It was revealed later that Muller’s wife blocked his move to Old Trafford because she did not want to move abroad. Brilliant stuff from the German.
    Thomas Muller found a novel way of avoiding questions from reportersCredit: Sky Sports
    Thomas Muller avoided answering rumours he was moving to Man UnitedCredit: Sky Sports
    Bayern Munich forward Thomas Muller scores delightful chip against Borussia Dortmund
    Thomas Muller is the joker in the pack at Bayern MunichCredit: Instagram @esmuellert
    HE KNOWS HIS AUDIENCE
    The jester of Bavaria knows exactly how to get a crowd going – and we mean that literally. The scene was set, it was a crunch Champions League quarter-final tie against Porto in 2015. Needing a 2-0 win, Bayern dismantled the Portuguese giants 6-1 in a thrilling blowout to win 7-4 on aggregate. Afterwards, the players saluted their faithful fans who were in fine voice. Realising his opportunity, Thomas ran straight into the crowd and grabbed a megaphone from one of the fans. He led the celebrations and chants, much to the delight of the home crowd and his teammates who couldn’t hide their smiles. He’s repeated the trick since, doing the same against Juventus in 2016 following an impressive win.
    Thomas Muller grabs the mic to serenade the home fans after beating PortoCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Thomas Muller leads the Bayern Munich faithful with a songCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Thomas Muller welcomes baby foal called Gameday as Bayern Munich star’s horse stable continues to grow
    A COMEDIC TROLL TO HIS TEAM-MATES
    The prankster once teased ex-team-mate Mario Gotze during a TV interview for wearing the wrong jersey the last time he won a Bundesliga before joining Bayern. He purposefully fell over during a pre-orchestrated free kick routine for Germany. And Muller also told a reporter he would wipe his backside with his Golden Boot trophy following Germany’s 2014 World Cup win. If you’re still not convinced of his comic prowess, watch the video below.
    Thomas Muller enjoys playing pranks on his teammatesCredit: Instagram @esmuellert
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyEUGxkGmHM
    BUT THEY’RE NOT ALL WINNERS…
    Muller was in jovial mood after Bayern Munich’s thumping 8-2 win over Barcelona in 2020.  But his attempt at a joke left the assembled media unamused. Speaking after his side’s triumph, he said: “We at Bayern have Robert LewanGOALski.” Seemingly confused that journalists weren’t rolling in the aisles at his brilliant play on words, he repeated: “You know, Robert LewanGOALski.” But as much as Muller thought it was a side splitter of a pun, he didn’t quite get the reaction he wanted with the room remaining deathly silent.
    Thomas Muller cracks awful Robert ‘LewanGOALski’ joke after Bayern win More

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    Watch Mike Tyson’s ice-cool reaction after crazed fan pulls out gun having approached him at comedy show

    MIKE TYSON remained the coolest man in the room after a crazed fan pulled out a gun during a Hollywood comedy gig.Iron Mike, 56, was taking in an evening of laughs with friends when things turned sour at a packed rooftop bar in March.
    Mike Tyson (black jacket) sat motionless as a fan approached him in a Hollywood barCredit: BackGrid
    The reportedly tried to goad Iron Mike, who remained motionless throughoutCredit: BackGrid
    A man reported as being the gig MC tried to intervene, before a gun was pulledCredit: BackGrid
    The man reportedly challenged Tyson to a fightCredit: BackGrid
    Tyson and a number of his entourage were in attendance at the gig, with the former heavyweight champion seated front and center.
    But in a shocking video obtained by TMZ, a random member of the audience is seen approaching Tyson and reportedly asking for a rumble.
    Witnesses report the man said he wanted to ‘upgrade his status’ by challenging the champ, who recorded 44 knockouts during his glittering career.
    The Baddest Man on the Planet remained calm and collected throughout, even as things escalated further.
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    After being asked to leave Tyson alone by the gig MC, the fan reportedly threatened to shoot the stunned host and pulled a gun from his waistband.
    The MC is heard shouting: “What the f*** are you doing? Get the f*** out of here.
    “I’m not playing with you, get out of here.”
    Revelers ducked under tables as the gun was cocked, but Tyson refused to get confrontational and continued to sit unmoved at his table.
    The gun was never fired and the man returned to conversation with the boxing legend, who heard him out despite the unfolding chaos.
    ‘GET THE F*** OUT OF HERE!’
    And in a bizarre twist, after exchanging words the pair HUGGED before the man left without further incident.
    An onlooker shouted “there you go” as the boxing legend rose from his seat for the embrace.
    TMZ report LAPD were never called to the incident and Tyson left safely with his friends shortly after the man.
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    It’s not the first time Tyson has been threatened with a firearm, with former coach Teddy Atlas allegedly pointing a gun to his head when the former boxer was just 15.
    Tyson has been out of the boxing ring since his blockbuster exhibition fight with Roy Jones Jr in 2020.
    He has been linked with a bout against YouTuber Jake Paul, but revealed it would take $1billion to tempt him into the contest.
    Asked about fighting Paul, Tyson said on his podcast: “Nobody told me that.
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    “Hey, I ain’t got no f***ing money. So where’s the f***ing contract.
    “I ain’t know nothing about it. [I’d require] a billion bucks.”
    Tyson is still in training at the age of 56 and showed off his blistering skills in a viral video.
    And he was recently embroiled in a shocking altercation with a fan on a plane.
    Iron Mike repeatedly punched Melvin George Townsend III on a JetBlue flight last month but escaped criminal charges.
    Revelers ducked for cover as the man produced a gun but didn’t fireCredit: BackGrid
    Heavyweight champ Tyson remained motionless throughout the commotionCredit: BackGrid
    After putting away his weapon, the man returned to talk to Iron MikeCredit: BackGrid
    Tyson embraces the man before leaving the clubCredit: BackGrid More

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    Mike Tyson reveals mountain lion was favourite pet but was left with ‘six or seven’ stitches after being bitten

    MIKE TYSON revealed that mountain lions are his favourite animals.The former heavyweight king, 56, is a renowned animal lover, having previously kept three tigers as pets.
    Mike Tyson has lifted the lid on his love of animalsCredit: Getty
    Iron Mike is a huge fan of mountain lionsCredit: Getty
    While he loves all big cats, Iron Mike reckons that the cougar is the most beautiful animal.
    Appearing on an episode of Million Dollaz Worth of Game recently, Tyson was asked what his favourite animal is.
    He said: “Mountain lions. So beautiful.
    “You’ve never seen their face. They have a green face. Incredible beauty.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-xpuujo{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(149,199,208,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-tqcu81{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(149,199,208,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-bq4915{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,97,108,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-bq4915:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}FART ATTACK .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Mike Tyson slept in bed with pet tigers whose farts were ‘worst thing in world’
    “It looks real plain, they look real plain when you see them. These brownish greys, you look at their eyes, they have green eyes.
    “Green beautiful face and you just wanna…”
    Asked whether he would get them as babies, Tyson continued: “Right from their mothers.
    “As they get older they don’t like the habitat they possess, so sometimes people give them to me.
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    “I’m really good with cats.”
    Tyson has been injured by a big cat, however, as he added: “I was giving one a tetanus shot and they bit me.
    “It was scared, he was scared. Six, seven stitches and it was over.
    “Then my dog bit me.”
    Tyson also revealed that he used to let his tigers sleep in his bed next to him – but that their farts were unbearable.
    He added: “They slept in my bed. The worst thing in the world – n***** farts.
    “As they get older they realise with punishment, they don’t do it anymore.
    “As soon as they hit the pool they s*** and everything, as soon as they hit the water.”
    Tyson, 56, would let his tigers share a bed with himCredit: Getty More