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      in Soccer

      Reporter apologises to Thomas Tuchel for ‘flippant’ comment in first England press conference

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      THOMAS TUCHEL’s first press conference as England manager saw an awkward moment that led to a reporter apologising to the German.Tuchel offered some passionate first words saying his aim was to win the 2026 World Cup, a statement the reporter met with a flippant sounding “good luck”.Thomas Tuchel has sat down for his first press conference as England managerFA CEO Mark Bullingham spoke before Tuchel to introduce the former Chelsea bossCredit: AFPThe German coach has become England’s third foreign managerTuchel ended his first answer with: “It suited my passion and my strive to push this group of players and be part of this federation with such a strong record in recent tournaments, to push it over the line and put a second star (rewarded to teams who lift the World Cup) on the shirt.”The reporter replied: “Good luck”, before turning to move on to speak to new England assistant coach Anthony Barry.The quip caused a moment of awkwardness before the journalist, Sky Sports’ Rob Dorsett, read the room and speedily apologised, saying: “Sorry I didn’t mean that the way it sounded. It was a little bit flippant that. I beg your pardon.”The accidental moment caused a ripple of laughter in the room at Wembley.READ MORE ON ENGLANDBefore that, Tuchel began: “I understood very quickly it’s a big job. I think it’s always the job you’re in which is the biggest job. “It doesn’t make much sense to compare, but it feels big and a privilege.”It’s very new because I come from club football, so the rhythm and responsibility, the role is a new role which is very exciting.”I was very open for that, and liked the idea of it. Once Mark Bullingham and John McDermott made clear this job is about football, we never lost the momentum and once I made a timeframe in my mind from January to the World Cup, I felt excited already.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England jobCEO of the FA Bullingham confirmed during the presser they interviewed 10 individuals for the role.Tuchel also honoured the legacy left behind by Gareth Southgate.Combustible Thomas Tuchel is a short term manager – but he’s the best choice for EnglandHe said: “Southgate and the FA did a fantastic job. Look at the results of the tournaments. “The youth teams win titles and the women’s team. We are there. The federation is there. We will build on what Gareth built and add a little extra to get it over the line.”It was also revealed English candidates were among those considered.But Bullingham refused to confirm whether or not interim boss Lee Carsley was examined for the full-time position.Tuchel also revealed that he was instrumental in bringing Harry Kane to Bayern Munich and is looking forward to being reunited with the striker before failing to confirm that he’d remain as captain.Another topic Tuchel was asked about was being the country’s third foreign manager after Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello.To which he replied: “I am sorry I have a German passport!”But I can tell the supporters I have felt my passion for the Premier League and my passion for the country and how I love to live here and work here.READ MORE SUN STORIESTuchel will officially take charge of England from January after signing a 18-month contract on October 8.He is set to earn £5m-a-year as the nation’s chief.Forgotten England stars could benefit from Tuchel appointmentWITH Thomas Tuchel announced as the next England manager, a few forgotten stars might be hopeful of a return to the international set up.The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager usually uses a 3-4-3 formation.That could provide an opening for Mason Mount, who’s not been involved in the England set-up since the World Cup in 2022.The now Manchester United star enjoyed his most successful spell under Tuchel while the pair were at Stamford Bridge.Tuchel could also offer lifelines to other previously capped players such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Eric Dier.RLC has excelled since his move to AC Milan and with England struggling to find a partner for Rice, he could be the surprise answer.Meanwhile, Dier played for Tuchel at Bayern Munich as part of a back-three last season.The defender did enough to convince the club to make his loan move permanent after he had fallen out of favour at Tottenham.Click here to see the full England XI who could play under Tuchel. 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      in Soccer

      Cole Palmer delivers one-word verdict on Chelsea wonderkid, 17, in message to him before he’s even played for Blues

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      CHELSEA star Cole Palmer called Brazilian wonderkid Estevao Willian, who will move to Stamford Bridge in the summer, a “star”. The Blues reached a deal with Palmeiras to sign Estevao, 17, in May following a £56million agreement with the youngster staying with the Brazilian giants until he turns 18 years old.Chelsea star Cole Palmer called soon-to-be team-mate Estevao Willian a ‘star’Credit: AFPEstevao emulated Palmer’s signature celebration a day after signing with ChelseaCredit: AlamyThe winger scored a goal a day after penning with the West Londoners and revealed he emulated Palmer’s famous “cold” celebration, which sees him rub his arms as if he’s shivering.That led to an exchange between the two soon-to-be team-mates on social media with the England international complimenting the forward’s skills and talent.The Chelsea star also told the teenage sensation that he is looking forward to doing “a lot of great things” together next season.Estevao told The Guardian: “When I signed for Chelsea, the next day I scored a goal and celebrated like Palmer.Read More on Football”His celebration was trendy, very popular. We talked on social media, I tagged him on Instagram.”He called me a star, I said he’s a star too. He said we’re going to do a lot of great things together for Chelsea.”Estevao has amassed a total of 15 goals and 10 assists in 42 appearances with Palmeiras and was also called up for international duty by Brazil’s senior team.The forward has already picked up two caps and is expected to mix things up with some of his international team-mates in the Premier League.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat includes Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, with whom he had a funny interaction recently while on national duty.Estevao added: “In shooting training, I started to hit all the shots and Alisson got a bit angry.Chelsea fans love Cole Palmer’s reaction to huge brawl – but work out clever reason why he didn’t get involved”He said he was still warming up, that I should wait a little bit. But I took it a bit seriously and scored many goals [against] him.”He took it all in jest, but I hope that next year I can do [it] again against him in [Premier League] matches. We’ll see a lot of each other in England.” More

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      in Athletics

      Inside ‘World’s sexiest athlete’ Alica Schmidt’s jet-setting summer after amazing trips to Italy, Thailand and Maldives

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      ALICA SCHMIDT had fans longing for the beach as she shared pics from her glamorous sunny holidays.Schmidt, 25, is a German runner who competed in the Paris Olympics last summer but failed to qualify for the women’s 4x400m relay final.Alica Schmidt shared pics of her glamorous sunny holidayCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt went to Italy, Thailand and the MaldivesCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt shared a series of bikini snaps for her fansCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt enjoyed the crystal waters with some jet-skiingCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt shared a series of glam pics for her followersCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdThe athlete has amassed a huge following on social media with her glamorous persona seeing her dubbed the “world’s sexiest athlete”.And she took Instagram by storm as she shared pictures of her recent trips to Italy, Thailand and the Maldives.The German posted photos and videos of her in a bikini enjoying the sun and crystal waters. She also showcased her jet-skiing skills for her fans during her time off.Read More on SportSchmidt posted: “Life is worth living.”The former Olympics competitor’s 5.8million followers were left gobsmacked as they took to the comments section.One fan wrote: “Beautiful caption & video.”Another commented: “I cannot get enough views of that gorgeous water!!!”Most read in AthleticsA third posted: “Life is beautiful and worth living – live it.”This one said: “Absolutely amazing.”Alica Schmidt gives fans glimpse behind scenes at final day at Olympic village and closing ceremony And that one gushed: “Strong and beautiful.”SEE MORE OF ALICA SCHMIDT’S GLAMOROUS LIFE…Schmidt is one of Germany’s top athletesCredit: GettyShe competes in track and field for her countryCredit: GettySchmidt was part of the relay squad for the Tokyo Olympic Games but didn’t competeCredit: ReutersSchmidt has acquired a cult following onlineShe has five million Instagram followersCredit: alicasmd/InstagramThe German is very particular about working with brands More

    • 238 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Bloodied Zlatan Ibrahimovic shows off gruesome head injury but Andy Carroll tells him ‘I’ve had worse from the missus’

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      ANDY CARROLL gave a hilarious response to Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s post showing off a bloody injury.The Swedish legend posted a picture of his scalp, which had suffered a nasty cut.Zlatan Ibrahimovic showed off a gruesome injury on InstagramCredit: Instagram @iamzlatanibrahimovicAndy Carroll had a hilarious responseCredit: AFPIbrahimovic, 43, shared the snaps on social media with the caption “part of the game”.He also added a trigger warning for people who may be squeamish to gore.Plenty of his 64.3million followers share their sympathy for the former AC Milan and Manchester United star.However, Andy Carroll also joined in the many comments as he gave a funny response.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe joked: “Grow up, I’ve had worse from the missus.”Fans found the joke funny as they commented on Carroll’s post.One wrote: “The legend has spoken.”A second commented: “Lotta time for that comment.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA third said: “Big Andy’s not messing.”Another added: “Hahaha amazing.”Watch Andy Carroll score twice in a ‘PARK’ and celebrate wildly as he tears up fourth tier of French football Ibrahimovic retired from football in 2023Credit: GettyIbrahimovic retired from professional football in 2023 after his second stint at AC Milan.Carroll, 35, however, is still playing and, in the summer, joined French fourth-division side Bordeaux.The striker has already become a cult hero at the club, having dropped down to help the club climb back up the divisions.He was recently spotted in Mallorca on holiday with his new girlfriend Lou Teasdale.He was previously married to Billy Mucklow, but their 11-year relationship came to an end earlier this year.Carroll starred for the likes of Newcastle, Liverpool and West Ham before he left England in 2023 for France.Who are these famous footballers? More

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      in Soccer

      Repulsed fans say ‘it’s still overpriced’ as 85p lard bread with onion at Europa League side goes viral

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      FOOTBALL scran enthusiasts might not be too eager to pay a visit to one Europa League side.It comes after a less-than-appetizing meal at Ferencvaros went viral on social media.Football scran enthusiasts were left stunned at a piece of lard breadCredit: Twitter/@SportScranA photo of a piece of lard bread at the Hungarian side caught the attention of fans for all the wrong reason.The picture showed a piece of “greasy” white bread looking moist in the middle and a meagre amount of red onion, with nothing else to support it.Social media users were taken aback by the item, and that was before mentioning the 85p – or 580 Hungarian Forint – price tag associated with it.One shocked fan said: “Even in England that s*** is overpriced.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA second said: “This would be good immediately after experiencing a heartbreak.”Specsavers official account said: “This brought tears to our eyes.”Another said: “That would leave you Hungary…”A fifth said: “This would literally make you in tears.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTottenham fans had the chance to try this dish during their recent visit to Budapest in the Europa League.But even as the image seemed to suggest some Spurs fans may have been left wanting, there was no wanting for a better result.England ratings: Angel Gomes is the runaway success of Lee Carsley era but Cole Palmer is anonymousAnge Postecoglou’s side collected a 2-1 win on the road to maintain their 100 per cent start.Pape Matar Sarr and Brennan Johnson were both on target for the visitors. More

    • 200 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Watch astonishing moment non-league clash is delayed by bizarre injury – caused by a WATER BOTTLE

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      A NON-LEAGUE clash ground to a halt after a player suffered a bizarre injury from a rogue WATER BOTTLE.Bamber Bridge took on Basford United in the Northern Premier League on Saturday.A Bamber Bridges player was thrown a water bottle during a break against Basford UnitedCredit: xAdam Dodd did not see the bottle hurtling towards himCredit: xThe defender was struck in the face by the bottleCredit: xHe ended up needing treatment after the blowCredit: xThe game ended in a 3-2 defeat for Bamber but only after the game suffered a delay in the first half.The pause was caused by an injury to one player but then extended due to another off the ball.A video shared by Basford showed Bamber star Adam Dodd fall to the ground during the break.After closer inspection, it was seen that a flying WATER BOTTLE hit him in the face.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe defender was walking to the touchline, looking at his hands, when one of the coaches threw him the bottle.Unaware of the bottle, Dodd was unable to stop it and took a blow to the face.Water was visibly spilling out of the full bottle as Dodd fell to the ground, holding his face – while the person who threw it didn’t seem bothered at all.The referee and physios from both players checked on him to make sure he was OK.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBasford’s clip of the moment was shared on social media, and fans could not help but find the funny side of the incident.One posted: “Non-League at its finest.”‘I hope our players have Sudocrem because they’ve had their a—s slapped,’ fumes non-league manager in viral interviewA second commented: “I absolutely bloody love non-league football.”A third wrote: “Just your typical non league incident hahah.”A fourth said: “This, I’m afraid, is simply the peak of all football.”Another added: “Guy who threw it isn’t even bothered lol.”The defeat leaves Bamber Bridge 14th in the table with 15 points after 12 games.Basford, however, are up to 8th having won six of their 13 fixtures.Who are these famous footballers? More

    • 213 Shares109 Views

      in Boxing

      Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol labelled ‘biggest robbery ever’ as scorecard leaves Eddie Hearn ‘baffled and disgusted’

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      EDDIE HEARN was “disgusted” after Artur Beterbiev’s majority decision win over his man Dmitry Bivol – while fans called it the “biggest robbery of all time”.Beterbiev edged out his rival and former Russian team-mate as the thrilling light heavyweight undisputed title fight went the distance.Artur Beterbiev was crowned the undisputed light heavyweight championCredit: GettyMany felt Bivol did the better work and deserved the winCredit: GettyDmitry Bivol was devastated and wants a rematchCredit: GettyEddie Hearn could not hide his fury at the judges’ decisionCredit: GettyThe judges’ scorecards made Beterbiev the winner by majority decisionOne judge scored the fight at 114-114, while the other two went 115-113 and 116-12 in 39-year-old Beterbiev’s favour.However, many fans and pundits at home had scored the bout in Bivol’s favour.And taking to social media following the fight, one angry viewer said: “We just witnessed the biggest robbery OF ALL TIME. WHAT??????”A second said: “There’s no bigger Beterbiev fan than me and that was one of the worst robberies I’ve ever seen in Boxing. That’s insane.”READ MORE IN BOXING A third said: “F*** BOXING. Bivol has just produced one of the best 12 round performances I’ve ever seen and won that fight easily it’s an absolute robbery. 116-112 to Beterbiev is the worst card of all time.”Three-weight champion Shakur Stevenson posted the score card numbers in Beterbiev’s favour alongside a pair of laughing emojis.Bivol’s promoter Eddie Hearn was also furious with the surprising 116-112 scorecard.Fabio Wardley destroys Frazer Clarke as he mangles opponents jaw in astonishing first round KOSpeaking after the fight, he said: “In one of the biggest fights of our generation and in the most important fight in Dmitry Bivol’s life you give him FOUR rounds? It’s absolutely disgusting.Most read in Boxing”You heard (Beterbiev’s corner) in the 10th Round ‘you have to knock him out to win this fight’. They knew Artur Beterbiev lost this fight. I’m absolutely baffled and disgusted by a scorecard of 116-112.”I don’t want to disrespect Artur Beterbiev but Dmitry Bivol should be the undisputed champion tonight and that judge should never work again. Four rounds in a fight of that magnitude is disgusting.”Boxing stars past and present backed Bivol too, although many saw it as a lot closer than Hearn.Tony Bellew wrote: ‘I’ve got Bivol winning that! The last round was so close again but I just feel Bivol landed the better shots all night long.”Great combinations, Great fight. Beterbiev was outstanding! Nearly 40 years old and he’s finishing fights as strong as he did when he was 20! Well done to both warriors.”Scotland’s former undisputed world champion Josh Taylor added: “I thought Bivol but, it is what it is. Great fight, boxing needs more of this.”And American Ryan Garcia was fully in Hearn’s corner, writing: “Wow, robbery if you ask me.”Queensberry promoter Frank Warren also agreed with his Matchroom rival that the decision went the wrong way. He said: “I gave it to Bivol by a couple of rounds. That score of 8-4 is beyond ridiculous. Everyone around that ring thought Bivol had won it by at least two rounds.”There should be a rematch because it was such a quality fight. Brilliant skills in there by Bivol, his jab was superb. Artur the last couple of rounds was told it was sink or swim.”The score 8-4 was a joke. It’s terrible when you get a fight like that and it ends in controversy.”Best new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesBeterbiev was on the front foot for the vast majority of the thrilling 12-rounderCredit: GettyBeterbiev is held aloft afer his victoryCredit: GettyBeterbiev’s win makes him the first unified light heavyweight champion since Roy Jones Jr.He said afterwards that he was “lucky”, and was happy to have a rematch if Saudi boxing supremos want it. He added: “I feel not bad. I did not good today. I wanted to box with more quality. I’ll be better one day. It was a little bit uncomfortable. Of course, it was a tough fight because Dmitry is a tough champion and he has tough skills, better than me.”During the fight, we always try to change something. I didn’t deliver more punches, I don’t know. Today I am lucky too.”Despite being devastated Bivol, 33, was gracious in defeat.He said in the ring moments after the decision was announced: “I am a warrior. I have no explanation because it looks like excuses. I am a warrior. I don’t know, I did my job but I felt like I could do better but it was just the opinion of some judges.”Congratulations to Artur. He is powerful, very powerful. I have a bruise from my hand, he hit it and it was so hard.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAsked if he was keen on a rematch, he said: “Why not? Of course. It is my dream to be undisputed.” More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Ahmed Alsanawi: A Star Barbers owner & stylist to Premier League footballers Grealish, Foden, Solanke & James

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      AHMED Alsanawi is the founder and owner of A Star Barbers, a high-profile barbershop in Chessington, Surrey.It has become the go-to destination for many professional footballers in need of a new style.Ahmed Alsanawi is the owner of A Star Barbers, which boasts a clientele including some of the biggest footballing stars in the worldCredit: Oliver Dixon – The SunWho is Ahmed Alsanawi?Nicknamed “A-Star”, Ahmed Alsanawi’s journey from a self-taught barber to a stylist for football’s elite is a remarkable story of talent, hard work, and relationship-building.His journey into the world of barbering began with a passion for hairstyling and an entrepreneurial spirit after emigrating to the UK from Iraq in the 2000s.Alongside his wife Tanya, he opened A Star Barbers with the goal of creating a welcoming space where clients could receive quality haircuts and grooming services.Since its establishment in 2013, it has gained a reputation for providing top-notch grooming services.read more on a star barbersThe barbershop quickly became known for its skilled stylists and exceptional service, making it a favourite among local residents and professional athletes alike.It has attracted high-profile clientele — including some of the biggest names in football.A hub for footballersA Star Barbers has established itself as a go-to destination for footballers, particularly those associated with Chelsea due to its proximity to the club’s Cobham Training Centre.Alsanawi cut so many Blues players hair that he earned the nickname “Chelsea’s official barber”.Most read in FootballThe shop’s reputation has grown significantly over the years, thanks to Alsanawi’s talent and ability to connect with his clients.Many players trust him not just for haircuts — but also for styling advice.High-profile clientsJack GrealishJack Grealish is a regular at A Star BarbersCredit: TikTok / @astarbarbersJack Grealish was filmed getting his hair styled at the hairdressers in October 2024.A TikTok clip shared by A Star Barbers shows the star having dye applied, before blonde highlights are unveiled and his hair is blow-dried.Grealish has been a regular client, with Alsanawi regularly maintaining his signature style.In May 2022, he also visited for a trim before Manchester City’s Premier League title celebrations.The playmaker also visited in February of the same year, subsequently sharing a video of the barber shaving his hair, showcasing their close relationship.Romeo BeckhamRomeo Beckham dropped in for a cut in October 2022Credit: InstagramIn October 2022, David Beckham’s son Romeo visited A Star Barbers for a haircut.A clip of the Inter Miami forward was posted on social media after his trim was completed.The barbers’ Instagram account added the caption: “Nice to meet you bro @romeobeckham.”Paul PogbaPaul Pogba flies Alsanawi around the world to cut his hairCredit: Instagram / @paulpogbaPaul Pogba is a long-time client of Alsanawi.The Juventus man stopped by in September 2022 for a new look shocked his former Man U teammate Jesse Lingard.Pogba shared a clip of his haircut on Instagram alongside the caption: “No limit for the new look yeassirr! 🙌🏾🔥.”After A-Star was finished, Pogba jokingly put him in a headlock and gave him a noogie — the barber didn’t look too pleased.Lingard replied in the comments to poke fun at the ex-United star, joking that Pogba was a bully.He said: “Shock A-Star getting bullied again! Fresh trip PP.”In June 2022, Alsanawi gave Pogba a haircut just before his transfer from Manchester United to Juventus, hinting at the move on social media.He also visited the shop in May 2022 for a fresh cut, and there have been reports of Pogba being a client since 2017.The midfielder has even been known to fly Alsanawi to various locations for trims, including to the French national team’s training camp before the 2018 World Cup.Eden HazardAlsanawi flew to Madrid to style HazardIn November 2022, Alsanawi posted a video of himself flying to Madrid to give Hazard a haircut.This wasn’t the first time Alsanawi had travelled for Hazard.In April 2021, during the coronavirus pandemic, he flew to Spain to cut Hazard’s hair.This move unsurprisingly caused some controversy due to travel restrictions.Other notable clientsFoden had his hair cut by Alsanawi during the 2022 World Cup in QatarCredit: InstagramOther superstars of the footballing world to visit A Star Barbers include:Expansion of A Star BarbersAs A Star Barbers gained popularity among professional athletes, Alsanawi decided to expand his business.He opened additional locations while maintaining the same level of quality service that made the original shop successful.The brand now includes multiple outlets catering to a wider clientele while still being closely connected to the world of professional football.Alsanawi hopes to expand the brand globally, with a chain of A Star Barbers located all around the worldCredit: Oliver Dixon – The SunInnovative product rangeIn addition to providing exceptional grooming services, Alsanawi launched a line of haircare products called Fini by A-Star in May 2018.These products are designed specifically for men and feature unique formulations.This expansion into product development showcases Alsanawi’s commitment to enhancing men’s grooming experiences beyond just haircuts.Social media presenceAlsanawi’s work extends beyond the barbershop — he has cultivated a significant social media, where he shares photos of his work and interactions with high-profile clients.His Instagram account often features images of footballers sporting fresh cuts, giving fans an inside look at their favourite players’ grooming routines.Ahmed Alsanawi and his team (left to right) — Huw West, Abdullah Alsanawi, Ahmed Alsanawi and Jake McCoy.Credit: Oliver Dixon – The SunAs of October 11, 2024, Alsanawi’s account @astarbarbers has over a million followers. Chelsea banIn 2017, there were reports that Chelsea had banned Alsanawi from their training ground due to his frequent posting of selfies with players on social media.However, this setback didn’t deter Alsanawi, who continued to build his brand and clientele beyond Chelsea.One of Alsanawi’s proudest achievements was working with the French national team at the 2018 World Cup finals and receiving a shout-out from the players after their victory.He also served as the England team’s on-hand barber in Qatar for the 2022 World Cup.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe futureAlsanawi hopes to expand the brand globally, with a chain of A Star Barbers located all around the world.He continues to work on growing his product line and maintaining his status as one of the most sought-after barbers in the world of sport. More