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      Liverpool sent a private jet to sign me and Klopp called me a mix of Fabregas and Gundogan – but I turned him down

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      NOT many players can say Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool all wanted to sign them – but Piotr Zielinski can.From the VIP treatment at Jurgen Klopp’s house to Bruno Fernandes begging him to move to Old Trafford, the midfielder is used to a convincing sales pitch.Piotr Zielinski was wanted by a host of Premier League clubsCredit: RexJurgen Klopp flew him to Liverpool on a private jetCredit: PABut despite several chances to move to the Premier League, Zielinski has always felt his home was in Italy.The Poland star was just 14 when Bayer Leverkusen and Liverpool were keen on him.But he did not want to leave his homeland and decided to stay put.Eventually, he went to Udinese in 2011 and Serie A has been his playground ever since.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 30-year-old joined Napoli five years later and went on to play 364 times for the club, winning the league title there in the 2022/23 season.He joined Inter Milan in the summer – but some of the world’s biggest clubs chased his signature during his time in Udine and Naples.He told the Foot Truck podcast: “At one time, Fernandes wanted me to end up at Manchester United. “We are still in touch and we talk quite often. We played together at Udinese and in one of the matches we practically single-handedly beat Milan.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Liverpool sent a private jet to Florence for me and I flew with my agent Bartlomiej Bolek.”We drove up to Klopp’s house afterwards, we had a great conversation. It was the first time I had flown like that. How Liverpool’s Jude Bellingham plan backfired with Trent Alexander-Arnold”He said that for him I was a mix of Ilkay Gundogan and Cesc Fabregas.”We watched a Premier League match at his place on his giant TV, I had never seen anything like that either.”Arsenal and Barcelona were also once interested, with his move to Spain not materialising because Napoli demanded players in a swap deal.And when his contract running down in 2022, West Ham tried to sign him before they ended up with Lucas Paqueta.Zielinski revealed: “It was also close, Napoli were already convinced about the offer, they threw in £30million.”They were already looking around for medical care for my wife and child and where I was going to live.READ MORE SUN STORIES”But Luciano Spalletti took me aside and asked me what was going on and I said I would rather stay to fight for the title. “He said I want you to stay and I stayed because I did not really feel London either.” More

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      Premier League cult hero Mario Balotelli angrily says ‘I’ll f***ing smash Serie A’ in fiery live stream argument

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      MARIO BALOTELLI asserted that he is still capable of tearing up Serie A in an impassioned rant.The veteran striker is on the search for the 12th club of his career after leaving Turkish side Adana Demirspor in the summer.Mario Balotelli claims he could still ‘smash up’ Serie AThe striker is unemployed after leaving Adana Demirspor in the summerCredit: GettyHe has been linked with several moves including the Spanish third-tier side Alicante.While Torino were tipped to snap up the former Manchester City star this week as a replacement for the injured Duvan Zapata.Balotelli would likely be keen to return to playing in his native Italy and he is confident he would score goals in Serie A.He appeared on a stream where the host compared him to Venezia frontman Joel Pohjanpalo, which Balotelli took exception to.READ MORE IN FOOTBALThe former Liverpool man said: “What the f*** are you saying?”Just because I wasn’t in Serie A (in recent years), what I did doesn’t count? F*** off, you and Serie A.”It’s a promise, I’ll smash Serie A when I sign (for a new club), I’ll smash this f***ing Serie A.”Balotelli, 34, has also been linked with a move to Serie A strugglers Genoa, who are managed by former Italy striker Alberto Gilardino.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThey could become the 12th different club of his career, having previously played in Serie A for Inter, AC Milan, Brescia and Monza.Capped 36 times, Balotelli has been linked with clubs in Brazil, India and Spain since returning home from Turkey.Footage of Mario Balotelli falling in street during boozy night out with palsBut he has chosen to bide his time, recently stating his intent to play in Italy once more.The frontman has trained by himself in Brescia to keep up his fitness. More

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      Alvaro Morata reveals depression battle and says ‘I couldn’t lace up my boots, and when I did my throat would close up’

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      FORMER Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata has opened up about his battle with depression.The 31-year-old captained Spain to Euro 2024 glory this summer, but recently admitted he almost didn’t make it to Germany.Alvaro Morata has opened up about his battle with depressionCredit: RexThe striker also revealed he has suffered from panic attacksCredit: GettyMorata admitted he almost couldn’t play at Euro 2024Credit: GettyMorata had received heavy criticism from both fans and journalists in the build-up to the tournament – so much so that it made him want to leave the country.The AC Milan striker experienced some mental health troubles as a result which made him question if he would ever be able to step onto a football pitch again.Speaking to El Partidazo, Morata revealed: “When you have really tough times, depression, panic attacks, it doesn’t matter what job you do, what situation you have in life, you have another person inside that you have to fight against every day and every night.”The Spaniard began doubting his future during the latter stages of his time with Atletico Madrid – just months before Euro 2024. Read More in FootballHe continued: “For me, leaving Spain was the best option; I couldn’t stand it.”I had a really bad time. I thought I wouldn’t be able to put my boots on and go out on the pitch again.”But hey, thanks to a lot of people, from Simeone, Koke, Miguel Ángel Gil last year, my psychiatrist, my coach… we are what you see on TV and on social media but often it’s not real.”You have to give an image because it’s your job. I had a really bad time, I exploded and there came a time when I couldn’t lace up my boots, and when I did I would run home because my throat would close up and my vision would start to blur.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Three months before the Euros I was wondering if I would be able to play another match. I didn’t know what was happening to me but it’s very complicated and delicate.”At that moment you realise that what you like most in the world is what you hate the most, it’s complicated.”Every time I went out with them I always had some episode, sometimes without malice, with people about something that had happened in previous games. “And, in the end, they didn’t want to go shopping either, things that a normal father does with his children. “There came a time when they said so many things to me in front of them that I was embarrassed to be with them. I was an easy joke, a joke to make the person next to you laugh.”Earlier this year, Morata announced that he had split from wife Alice Campello.The couple had been together for seven years and share four children.Morata left Atletico to join AC Milan in a £10.9million transfer in July.The striker has since scored two goals in five Serie A appearances.If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123. More

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      ‘I’ll never feel safe again in this city’ says Serie A star after finding five trackers and having car broken into

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      A SERIE A star has revealed he will never feel safe in his city again after thieves tried to steal his car.Napoli defender Juan Jesus returned from a trip to find his car had been ransacked.Juan Jesus says he no longer feels safe in NaplesCredit: RexThe Napoli defender discovered his car broken intoJesus revealed he found five trackers on his vehicleCredit: AlamyHe was away with his family on a trip at the time of the incidentHe had been enjoying some time away with his family in the mountains at the time of the incident.A door window appeared to have been smashed as thugs tried to steal Jesus’ vehicle.The Brazilian explained he had found five trackers on his car, supposedly placed by criminals.He shared a video of his car and later wrote on Instagram: “Zero security! READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”After almost a month of them following me, today they tried to take my car away.”What happened tonight is just the icing on the cake, in the space of a month I found five air tags (geolocators) in my car. “Knowing that these criminals know where I live does not bring me peace of mind, unfortunately in such a beautiful city I will never feel safe again. “I know that material goods are secondary in the end, but knowing that a stranger has violated something personal to me really disgusts me!”Most read in FootballJesus, 33, has played for Napoli since 2021 and has been in Italy for 13 years after initially joining Inter Milan in 2011.He has made 80 appearances for Napoli, scoring five goals, and he helped them win Serie A in 2023.PIzza boss dedicated pie to famous Tartan Army duo in Italy More

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      Paul Pogba tipped for shock transfer to reunite with Man Utd team-mate and ex-Premier League boss after drug ban appeal

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      PAUL POGBA is wanted by Marseille ahead of his post-drug ban comeback, according to reports.French news outlets are claiming that the Ligue 1 club are in advanced talks over the signing.Paul Pogba has been linked with a shock move to MarseilleCredit: ReutersThe transfer would see him play with ex-Man Utd team-mate Mason GreenwoodCredit: GettyRoberto De Zerbi is the Marseille gafferCredit: AFPPogba, who remains on the books of Juventus, is likely to have his contract mutually terminated so he can become a free agent.He is then seemingly set to join Marseille in January, with his ban preventing him from playing until March.The club are managed by ex-Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi and his former Manchester United team-mate Mason Greenwood is in the squad.Neal Maupay and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg are also on loan there from Everton and Tottenham respectively.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLPogba was initially banned from football for four years after testing positive for banned substance DHEA in August 2023.The 31-year-old Frenchman has always pleaded his innocence and appealed the decision.Two weeks ago, the Court of Arbitration for Sport reduced his ban to 18 months.They cut his suspension because Pogba was able to prove he took the substance linked to testosterone growth by accident.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSResponding to the reduced ban, Pogba said: “Finally, the nightmare is over. I can look forward to the day when I can follow my dreams again.”I always stated that I never knowingly breached Anti-Doping regulations, I play with integrity and I want to thank the Court of Arbitration who heard my explanation.Paul Pogba was brought back to Man Utd to HUMILIATE Sir Alex Ferguson – I told him not to return, says Patrice Evra”This has been a hugely distressing pediod in my life because everything I’ve worked so hard has been put on hold.”Thank you for all the love and support. I can’t wait to get back on the pitch.”What is DHEA?PAUL POGBA tested positive for elevated levels of DHEA, a hormone that naturally occurs in the adrenal gland, in August 2023.DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, can be used to naturally boost testosterone production. It does not produce testosterone itself.It is on the world anti-doping banned substances list and carries a maximum of four years if the athlete took it deliberately to enhance their performance.DHEA can legally be sold over-the-counter in the US as a dietary product, known as prasterone.It is also taken as an anti-ageing therapy, and to treat depression and the symptoms of menopause, although there is little evidence to suggest it is effective, and it can cause serious side effects.In 2022, UFC fighter Bobby Green received a six-month ban after testing positive for a DHEA.Green said he had not realised that DHEA was banned after seeing a video on YouTube, and took the supplement after his wife bought it from a supermarket. More

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      Serie A manager linked to replacing Ten Hag at Man Utd quizzed by cops over violence and indimidation accusations

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      INTER MILAN manager Simone Inzaghi has been called in to talk to police amid allegations of “violence, intimidation and other criminal activities” involving the club’s ultras.Case documents about the investigation name officials and players over alleged “pressure” they came under, as well as links with the ultras.Simone Inzaghi has been quizzed by police amid allegations involving Inter Milan ultrasCredit: GettyAC Milan ultras are also being investigated.According to Ansa, a number of other high-profile names could be interviewed regarding the allegations.They include Inter vice-president Javier Zanetti, former defender Milan Skriniar, and AC Milan captain Davide Calabria.Inzaghi has been linked with replacing Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe probe has led to 19 arrests, while investigators have also begun a “prevention procedure” against the two Milan clubs.Inter and AC are not currently under investigation but are having to prove they have no connection to the ultras – in particular when it comes to ticket sales.Failure to do so could see them placed in “judicial administration”.It is being reported the court papers “granted illicit concessions” such as “providing tickets to people who belong to criminal organisations who then resold them at a huge price markup”.Most read in FootballInvestigators are claiming a relationship between Inter and the We Are Milano ultra group.It is alleged members of the group have been allowed into the San Siro without tickets for years after “strong acts of intimidation” towards stewards.Wayne Rooney doesn’t hesitate in naming England’s best player as Man Utd legend snubs Jude Bellingham There is also an accusation that ultra leaders, such as the arrested Marco Ferdico, met with Skriniar and had “contact” with Inzaghi.The allegation includes the claim Ferdico urged Inzaghi to speak to the club or president Giuseppe Marotta to secure 200 tickets for last year’s Champions League final.Investigators alleged Inzaghi promised he would discuss the matter with club chiefs.Inter stand accused of granting members of the Curva Nord fan group “favours”, but the report insists they were “forced to do so”.Milan preliminary investigations judge Domenico Santoro also insists the “situation has not changed as of today” despite the court documents largely pertaining to 2019 and 2020.Serie A champions Inter sit second in the table after seven games, two points behind Napoli.They earned a goalless draw at Manchester City in their Champions League opener, before beating Red Star Belgrade 4-0 in their second game. More

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      Cesc Fabregas’ Como buying EVERY Napoli fan who visits away end a beer after ‘beautiful sportsmanship’

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      COMO have offered a free beer to every Napoli fan who visits their match in February after their “beautiful sportsmanship”.The two sides met in Serie A on Friday night at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in Naples.Cesc Fabregas’ Como have offered Napoli fans a free beer at their match in FebruaryCredit: RexNapoli fans have been hailed for their ‘beautiful display of sportsmanship’ against ComoCredit: GettyAlthough the hosts ran out comfortable 3-1 winners, their supporters were full of praise for their opponents.Scott McTominay, Romelu Lukaku and David Neres were all on the scoresheet, with the Scot scoring after just 25 seconds.Home fans took to social media before and after the match, with Como now paying thanks with a special offer for the return fixture.The newly-promoted side hailed their hosts for the atmosphere inside the stadium following the match.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn a statement, Como said: “Como 1907 would like to extend sincere thanks to Napoli and its fans for the beautiful display of sportsmanship following the match on Friday evening.”The atmosphere at the Maradona stadium and reaction of both fans after the game was second to none.”This is why Como 1907 will be buying a beer for every travelling Napoli fan at the return leg at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia in February 2025.”Napoli fans will make the 1,630-mile round trip to Como’s Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia in the New Year.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIt will be their first top flight trip to the Lombardy club since 1989 following their promotion last season.Como are back in Serie A after a 21-year absence, with former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas in charge.Cesc Fabregas like you’ve never seen him before as mild-mannered ex-Arsenal star explodes in fiery dressing room rantHe stepped up from his assistant manager role in the summer to replace Osian Roberts in the dugout.Meanwhile, his ex-Gunners team-mate Thierry Henry also owns shares in the club.Fabregas’ side are currently 14th in the table after a three-match unbeaten streak was ended by Napoli on Friday.Their opponents, however, are two points clear at the top of Serie A after five wins from their first seven matches.Napoli won 3-1 at home against Como in Serie A on Friday nightCredit: RexFabregas became manager of newly-promoted Como in the summerCredit: Rex More

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      Scott McTominay branded ‘potentially one of best midfielders in Napoli history’ six weeks after transfer from Man Utd

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      SCOTT MCTOMINAY has been branded “potentially one of the best midfielders in Napoli history” after an incredible start to the season.It comes just six weeks after he completed his move to the Serie A side from Manchester United.Scott McTominay has been branded ‘potentially one of the best midfielders in Napoli history’Credit: RexThe Scotland international signed from Manchester United six weeks ago in a £25million dealCredit: RexMcTominay signed for £25million back in August, penning a four-year deal through to 2028.He has since scored twice and provided an assist in five appearances under Antonio Conte.His performances have seen him quickly become a fan favourite amongst supporters.McTominay’s acceptance by the fans was also helped by an open letter penned to supporters following his move.READ MORE ON MAN UTDMeanwhile, the Italian media have also hailed his displays, with one commentator even comparing him to Diego Maradona.Football agent Christian Bosco has now gone even further with his assessment of the Scotland international.Discussing McTominay, he told Canale 8: “You can be a winner even if you have different DNA. This Napoli is a cynical Napoli.”McTominay will still have to prove himself in Italy, but he is potentially one of the best midfielders in Napoli’s history.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMcTominay impressed on his debut against Juventus last month before scoring his first goal against Palermo in the Coppa Italia.He followed that strike up by finding the net after just 25 seconds against Como on Friday in Napoli’s latest win.PIzza boss dedicated pie to famous Tartan Army duo in ItalyThe victory leaves Conte’s side top of the table after seven matches of the season.Napoli have won five of their Serie A fixtures so far, losing just once, and sit two points clear of nearest challengers Inter Milan.McTominay will be hoping to keep his fine form going after the international break.His new club return to action away to 10th place Empoli on October 20.McTominay has two goals and one assist in five appearances for NapoliCredit: Rex More