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    My dad survived Auschwitz by boxing and winning 76 forced fights to the death before pro career and Rocky Marciano bout

    IN 1944, aged just 16, Harry Haft was forced into a concentration camp in Nazi-occupied Poland.To survive the Holocaust, the teenager was told to, literally, fight for his life.Harry Haft was the Holocaust survivor who went on to box Rocky MarcianoInmates at concentration camps were forced into bare-knuckle fights to the deathCredit: AFPFor the ‘entertainment’ of German SS officers, emaciated Jewish inmates were put together in a ring for bare-knuckle boxing contests – fought to the death – in front of jeering troops.The winner would get an extra slop of food, to keep them fit for their next fight.The loser, should he survive, would be deemed unfit to work as a slave labourer and shot on the spot, or taken to a gas chamber or crematorium. Haft, who boasted a strong physical stature, was recruited by an SS overseer called Schneider who taught him how to be a boxer.He fought for his life in 76 bare-knuckle death matches at a camp in Jaworzno, which was situated at a coal mine north of Auschwitz, and miraculously won every single one.Haft’s escape from the Nazis near the end of the war was also remarkable. In 1945, his Jaworzno camp was dissolved as the Soviet Red Army marched into German held-territory.Thousands of inmates were transferred to other camps, which gave some the opportunity to flee. Haft was one of those fortunate enough to get away.On the run, he would encounter a bathing German soldier who he would kill before stealing his uniform and wearing it as a disguise.Once he found refuge in a Displaced Person’s Camp operated by the US Army in Munich, he had the opportunity to win an amateur championship organised by the US armed forces.That was the catalyst for Haft to launch a professional boxing career that culminated in a bout with future heavyweight world champion, Rocky Marciano in 1949.Haft, who died of cancer in 2007 aged 82, was the subject of Hollywood movie The Survivor – directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Barry Levinson.Trailer for The Survivor, the story of Harry Haft’s incredible fight to survive the Holocaust SunSport spoke with Harry’s son Alan, who revealed the horror effects of the trauma and PTSD his father suffered.”My father was a fairly violent person,” he told SunSport.”PTSD wasn’t diagnosed in that era, and what he went through led to struggles in later life with his mental health.”He had nightmares all the time, he flew into rages and broke every window in our family home.”I remember he once saw a swastika in a history book and went out to hide in the local park. We had to go out to search for him.”I’m a second generation Holocaust survivor and because of my father’s PTSD, my childhood was tough.”He sort of ruined every holiday, exploding into a rage, and I lost count of the number of suicide attempts he made.”After finding his way to the Displaced Persons Camp following the end of the war, Harry put his boxing skills to good use in 1947 to win the Amateur Jewish Heavyweight Championship in an event set up to entertain US troops in Munich.A year later, he emigrated to New Jersey, where he vowed to become a prize fighter.Alan recalled: “My father told his aunt and uncle he wanted to be a prize fighter, and she asked him, ‘Why would you want to be a boxer? Haven’t you undergone enough punishment?'”He replied, ‘After all I’ve been through, what harm can a man with boxing gloves on his hands do to me?'”When my father died I put that quote on his gravestone.”Haft’s fight record was 13 wins from 21 fights, which culminated in that 1949 bout with Rocky Marciano, who would go on to become one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.But Alan told how Harry was paid a visit by American mobsters who wanted to fix the fight.Harry Haft’s son Alan speaking to SunSport from his home in AmericaHaft’s headstone includes the words he said to his auntFrom 1948-1949 Haft fought 21 times and won 13 boutsHaft hoped fighting the legendary Rocky Marciano would help reunite him with his long lost loveCredit: Getty – Contributor”He said two gangsters came into his dressing room before the fight and told him, ‘You’re going down in the first’,” Alan revealed.”So my father said to them, ‘Well, I’ve never gone down in the first round for anybody. You don’t scare me. The Germans didn’t scare me’.”Haft would suffer a third round knockout, but there was a bigger plan in play.Underpinning Haft’s tale of survival was a story of love.He was separated from his childhood sweetheart, Leah Pablanski when the German army took their city Belchatow in 1944. By fighting Marciano, some five years later, harry hoped to get his name in the newspapers so that, if Leah was still alive, she would come and find him.The years passed by and Harry married, had children, and set up his own fruit and veg store in Brooklyn.In his later years, Harry Haft struggled with PTSD from his harrowing ordealHowever, as incredible as it seemed, Haft was destined to meet Leah one final time.In 1963, he received a call from the Belchatow survivors’ association saying his former girlfriend was living in Miami under the married surname Lieberman.Haft took his family to Florida, where he asked Alan to call every Lieberman in the phone book at their hotel.Alan, who was 14 at the time, remembered: “I finally spoke with a man who said, ‘That’s my wife’ over the phone.”My dad immediately interjected, ‘Tell her that Harry Haft from Belchatow wants to see her.'”The man was reluctant and said she wasn’t seeing anyone. “So I told him, ‘Okay, if she changes her mind we’re at the Marseille Hotel.'”About 10 minutes later the phone in the room rings and it’s the husband. He said: ‘She doesn’t want to see anybody, but you she wants to see.”The Survivor captured Haft’s heartbreaking reunion with LeahHarry and Alan drove to Coral Gables where they met Leah. But the Leah he met was different to the one he knew when they were teenagers.”She was dying of cervical cancer, she was so skinny, she looked like a Holocaust victim,” Alan said.”I watched them go out in the garden for a little while and exchange some final words together. “It was the only time I ever saw my father cry.”In 2006, Alan told his father’s story in a book called Harry Haft: Survivor of Auschwitz, Challenger of Rocky Marciano.He couldn’t find a publisher to touch it, because the material was so dark.Eventually, it was published by Syracuse University – but there was little academic value in the book, which sold just 4,000 copies.Son Alan Haft told his father’s incredible story in a book, and there has also been a graphic novelThe story became a Hollywood movie starring Ben Foster as HaftCredit: United King FilmsHowever, it gained a new lease of life in, of all places, Germany — where it was republished.Cartoonist Reinhard Kleist bought a copy and was inspired to create a graphic novel of Haft’s life story.It was called The Boxer and would go on to win countless awards. It was then published around the world, and thrust Haft’s story into the mainstream.This would encourage writer Justine Juel Gillmer to pen a script that would end up on the Black List, an annual survey of the most-liked motion picture screenplays not yet produced.There, it caught the attention of Barry Levinson, who won the Academy Award for Rain Main and was compelled to make the movie.Starring X-Men: The Last Stand actor Ben Foster in the lead role alongside Hollywood legend Danny DeVito, The Survivor was critically acclaimed.Harry Haft, left, with son Alan before his death in 2007Haft, left, winning the Amateur Jewish Heavyweight Championship in 1947Haft knocked down his opponent to win the fight and a boxing career beganThe film’s child actors Kingston Vernes, Zachary Golinger and Sophie Knapp join Alan, his brother Marty and sister Helen Haft for the film’s premiere In New YorkCredit: Getty More

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    Inside Jake Paul’s £62m lifestyle from £13million Puerto Rico mansion to romance with stunning speedskater Jutta Leerdam

    JAKE PAUL has amassed an astonishing fortune of around £62million.His earnings stem from an impressive career as a YouTuber, as well as changing the landscape of boxing as an influencer in the sport.Jake Paul boasts an insane lifestyleCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cri1X3PORib/Most recently, Paul showed off his new private jet and Mercedes MaybachCredit: https://www.instagram.com/jakepaul/Paul shared images inside the jet, including watching ESPNCredit: https://www.instagram.com/jakepaul/The 28-year-old, nicknamed The Problem Child, recently showed off a brand new private jet to aid his already impressive lifestyle.He owns a fleet of incredible motors, including a £456,000 Ferrari SF-90 Spider and £165,00 Lamborghini Huracan.While he has resided in a stunning mansion in Puerto Rico that he splashed £13million on.Paul is also lucky in love after finding romance with stunning speedskater, Jutta Leerdam.Read more Jake Paul newsSunSport takes a look at his epic life.Amazing jetThis week, Paul told his fans he was “going global” after splashing the cash on his first private jet.Paul revealed his newest purchase to his 18.5 million followers on TikTok.Dancing on the runway with a huge bottle of champagne, a luxury £175,000 Mercedes Maybach with a giant bow could also be spotted behind the boxer.Most read in BoxingPaul then showcased the plane in action, lounging on a bed mid-flight before tucking into a plate of nachos.Jake Paul renovates boxing gym in Puerto Rico for charityHe sat back to watch some ESPN, before a flight attendant brought some hot towels.Jake captioned the clip: “Bought my first jet. Went global cause I’m global. Silly me.”Impressive garageAlongside that impressive Mercedes Maybach is a fleet of supercars worth a fortune.The most expensive is a Ferrari SF-90 – that carries a £456,000 price tag.Capable of doing 0-62mph in 2.5 seconds, it’s top speed is 211 mph.It’s not the only Ferrari in his collection – with a matching 296 GTB costing nearly £330,000.In 2018, Paul treated himself to a £165,000 Lamborghini Huracan – that’s capable of reaching 0-60mph in 2.5 seconds and has a top speed of 212mph.Last year, he joined the celebs in the US who worship Tesla Cybertrucks, adding that £62,000 electric motor to his garage.While Paul has also been seen behind the wheel of a £360,000 Rolls-Royce Phantom, and a classic Ford Fairlane Skyliner worth £52,000.Paul shows off his enviable Rolls-Royce Phantom worth £360kCredit: Social Media – Refer to SourceThis stunning Lamborghini Huracan worth £165k is also in Paul’s garageCredit: InstagramThe car of the moment – Tesla Cybertruck – sits in Paul’s driveway at his homeCredit: InstagramPaul’s most expensive car is his Ferrari SF-90 with a £456k price tagCredit: Instagramread more sport featuresHot girlfriendThere was a time when Paul would jump from relationship to relationship with pretty models or fellow influencers.But now, he is smitten with beautiful speedskater Jutta Leerdam.The pair got together after they began flirting on Instagram.They went public with their romance in April 2023 , with Paul sharing a photo of them together.”I’m Dutch now”, Paul captioned the snap which featured him holding hands with Leerdam in a carousel of pictures.When Paul suffered the first loss of his career to Tommy Fury, Leerdam provided the perfect support for his battered ego.Back in January, Paul provided his support as she landed a European title – and declared they could be a Olympic power couple in 2028.Paul’s celeb brother Logan has settled down with a baby with fiancee Nina Agdal.Now he believes he will follow suit.Gorgeous Dutch beauty Jutta Leerdam is Paul’s girlfriendCredit: Instagram / @uttaleerdamJutta met Paul on Instagram – where they got to know each otherCredit: Instagram / @uttaleerdamPaul has said that he sees Jutta as wife materialCredit: Instagram / @juttaleerdamStunning Jutta has scored success as a speedskaterCredit: RexPaul said on his BS podcast: “Interestingly enough, I dream of the same thing [marriage and family] and getting to become best friends with my kids.”Just being there all the time, which is why I work so hard, is to have the financial freedom to be able to not work when they’re born and to be with them all the time.”And doing it with my wife, which I believe will be Jutta.”Huge homeNo doubt Paul’s biggest purchase is his staggering mansion.He left California after admitting there were “too many distractions” and moved to the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico.The two-storey home has eight bedrooms, eight bathrooms, a fitness room, a luxury swimming pool, a games room and an elevator.It also boasts a six-car garage with floral walls and high ceilings.Paul lives in a stunning £13m mansion in Puerto RicoCredit: Youtube – Jake PaulThe incredible property has undergone over £1.6m in rennovationsCredit: Youtube – Jake PaulPaul’s home boasts eight bedroomsCredit: Youtube – Jake PaulPaul often shares images of his home on social mediaCredit: Instagram @jakapaulThe Caribbean Realty Group revealed the house was initially listed at $19,995,000 (£16.1m) until Paul came to an agreement with ex-basketball star Yadier Molina, who owned the property.READ MORE SUN STORIESPaul claimed to have spent around £1.6million in renovations to taylor the house to his liking.In various YouTube clips, he has given fans a glimpse inside the mansion he likes to call “Taj MaPaul’. 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    Misfits Boxing’s Carla Jade reveals her hardest battle is outside the ring – and the thing that would hurt her most

    INCREDIBLE CARLA Jade has managed to juggle a blooming boxing career and a successful ring girl business alongside being a busy mum of four.But the brunette beauty, 35, wouldn’t swap her hectic life for anything else.Brunette beauty Carla Jade is the mum-of-four who has taken Misfits Boxing by stormCredit: Instagram @carla_jjadeCarla is the current Misfits Boxing lightweight women’s championCredit: PA’Killa’ Carla Jade recently defended her belt against Melanie Shah at Misfits Boxing 20Credit: PAJade was recently in action against bare-knuckle boxer Melanie Shah at Misfits Boxing 20 at Co-op Live in Manchester, where she defended her lightweight belt.It’s been a remarkable journey for the champ who has wowed her four kids with her exploits in the ring, as well as the fact she gets to rub shoulders with YouTuber KSI.However, despite barbs aimed at her online by her rivals on social media, and punches thrown by juggernauts in the squared circle, being a mother serves up tougher challenges.”Everyone always talks about the boxing and everything like that – but for me, my hardest battle is always outside of the ring,” Carla told SunSport.”I am always juggling everything and making sure everything’s done. You know, I’ve got the kids, I’ve got a business, then I’ve got the boxing.”I say it’s hard, but I have four amazing kids. They’re so lovely, so helpful.”They’re my whole inspiration. So as much as it’s hard, you can’t be upset because you’re busy juggling your lottery win. It’s the best thing ever being a mum.”The kids are the only thing in the whole world that… you know, obviously I love boxing, I love my friends, I love my family, but if you took them away from me that would hurt.”From ring girl to boxing sensationCarla’s children, aged 19, 18, 15 and 10, saw their mum in the ring before she became a Misfits Boxing sensation.Meet Sydney Thomas, The Next Big Ring Girl StarShe has regularly shown off her stunning figure at PFL and Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship events.While the fierce fighter also runs a stable of promo models with her own agency, Finesse Ring Girls.Carla said: “It’s funny because they didn’t care so much when I was a ring girl.”I think the only time my son showed an interest was when he saw an ad for BKFC when he was playing his FIFA video game, and he was like ‘oh, is that the show you worth with?’ “When I first started boxing, it wasn’t much of a shock to my kids because they already know I’m not a very conventional person.”At first they weren’t majorly interested, but when I won the belt they thought it was the coolest thing in the whole world.”Also, they’re not YouTubey kids, but they were impressed I get to hangout with KSI and other influencers who are big in their world.”I think now they’re kind of in awe of me!”So far, Carla’s children have yet to watch mum live in action at one of her bruising or bloody bouts.”Yeah, they don’t come to the fights,” Carla explained.Alongside her boxing career, Carla Jade is a ring girl and runs her own businessCredit: https://www.instagram.com/carla_jjadeGlam Carla’s kids have watched their mum in action in the ringCredit: Instagram @carla_jjadeCarla revealed that her son had a watch party with his friends for one of her fightsCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade”I did ask them if they wanted to come to my last fight – but being in Manchester it was a bit far for them to travel.”They watch it on TV, though. My son, bless him, is so cute. He had a watch party with his friends when I fought Nikki Hru.”I have to remember that they’re watching, so I can’t get too carried away and say something I shouldn’t! “But my older children understand it. They understand it’s work, so when I got slapped by Melanie in the press conference they knew it wasn’t like getting slapped in the street by someone!”The parenting juggleCarla admitted the hardest thing she faces as a Misfits boxer is the time it takes away from her kids.”Time management is really tough,” she confessed.”I have never really had a 9-5 job, so doing the school run hasn’t been an issue.”I’ll drop them off at school, go to the gym, get all my training done, then I’m able to pick them up later.”Sometimes sparring sessions are in the evening, depending on what girls are available. Before I go back out, I’ll do the dinner for them.Carla has made sacrifices to conquer the Misfits Boxing worldCredit: https://www.instagram.com/carla_jjadeCarla revealed eight-week training camps can take her away from valuable time with her four childrenCredit: https://www.instagram.com/carla_jjadeDespite an often gruelling schedule, Carla is grateful to be a part of Misfits BoxingCredit: https://www.instagram.com/carla_jjade”My 19-year-old can cook, so she prepares her own meals or will help feed the others. She’s an angel.””It can be hard when it gets closer to the fights and we’ve got proper eight-week training camps.”But, I am very lucky because if you break it down, it’s eight weeks, one night, and it’s good money.”Of course I get tired, and driving back home after a sparring session late at night is tough.”I’d rather do that, though, because it means I can have little moments with my children – like take the dog for a walk or draw a picture with my youngest.”I can’t complain. It’s a small sacrifice to pay. I’m the champ. If it was an easy life, everyone would be doing it.”A dangerous gameCarla knows she puts herself at risk in the ring, which hits home being a parent. “It’s only recently I thought about the dangers,” she told us.”Coming into it, I knew I would have to go and spar and get punched in the head by other girls.”At times, the next day I have suffered with a bad headache. You’re wearing eight ounce gloves, no head guards, so it’s proper boxing when it’s fight night.”It’s a serious sport, so I just make sure I protect myself, look after my body. I take my weight cut seriously, and Misfits look after us as well.”They make sure everyone’ s on weight, we are tested by WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency), so they’ve proven to be such a professional organisation.Mum Jade confessed she has thought about the dangers her boxing career could poseCredit: Instagram @carla_jjadeCarla poses with sparring partner Aria Wild following a session in the gymCarla is happy to fight in the ring to provide for her familyCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade”At the same time, I could go out and, heaven forbid, get hit by a bus tomorrow.”I want to live my life to the full, provide for my family, and I think I can do that safely in the boxing ring”It’s great to have a place I can show off my skills, personality, and get paid.” More

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    Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman, 15, is touted as ‘Next Kaka’ – but little-known rule means he can’t play in Premier League

    ARSENAL are producing talented youngsters once again.This season, teenagers Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri have gone from Hale End hopefuls to first team stars.Max Dowman, 15, has been tipped to star in Arsenal’s first teamCredit: GettyManager Mikel Arteta has introduced Dowman to first team training sessionsCredit: GettyArsenal’s trio of starlets Dowman, Ethan Nwaneri, and Myles Lewis-Skelly pose for a snap in DubaiCredit: GettyAnd the same is expected of 15-year-old Max Dowman – who travelled with the first team for the Gunners’ winter training camp in Dubai.The attacking midfielder has been compared to AC Milan legend Kaka by his youth coach.While he was fast-tracked into Arsenal’s U18 team at the tender age of just 13 by former teen prodigy Jack Wilshere.Even a staunch Manchester United pundit has waxed lyrical about Dowman’s exceptional ability.Read more Arsenal news However, he won’t be able to help Mikel Arteta’s injury-hit side out for the remainder of the season due to his age.According to Premier League rules, no player below the under-16 age group can be named in a match day squad.Absolute ballerIt’s early days in Dowman’s development. So early, in fact, he doesn’t even have a profile on Arsenal’s website.But according to reports, he is well known at other academies in the country who have approached his father to let him know of their interest.Most read in FootballFor the moment, his future is being monitored closely.Dowman can’t sign scholarship terms until he turns 16, before the  2026-27 season.Incredibly, he only turned 15 on December 31. Already, though, he turned heads in matches in the Uefa Youth League. ‘Now everyone’s calling me it…’ – Declan Rice reveals hilarious new nicknameArsenal’s U19 team suffered a miserable campaign overall, finishing 26th in the 36-team table.But Dowman was the bright spark, impressing in games against Sporting Lisbon, Inter Milan and Atalanta.An attacking midfielder, he can play on the flanks, or as a No10.Arsenal youth team coach Gus Oliveira compared him to a Brazilian great.”He plays in the style of Kaka,” Oliveira told PL Brasil last year.”He can write his name. One day he will play for the England national team and in the Premier League.”Dowman can’t sign scholarship terms until he’s 16, or make his Prem debutCredit: GettyAccording to reports, Dowman is being tracked by rival Premier League clubsCredit: GettyAn attacking midfielder, Dowman can operate as a No10Credit: GettyArsenal youth team coach Gus Oliveira compared Dowman to Kaka last yearCredit: Gettyread more sport featuresRecord breakerThose comparisons to Kaka are obviously flattering.But Dowman has been creating his own impressive history – breaking records in the Gunners youth team.Last year, his goal against Atalanta in the Uefa Youth League made him the youngest goalscorer in the competition’s history – then aged 14 years, eight months, and 19 days.When Jack Wilshere was coach of the U18s, he wasn’t afraid to hand Dowman a debut at 13 – again, breaking another record for youngest debutant.After the game, Wilshere said: “Debut opportunities aren’t handed out lightly and Max has demonstrated over the past few months that he deserves this chance.”He handled the moment admirably, sending an important message to the team that, when we introduce players, they possess the quality to contribute effectively.”Dowman has been called up on England duty for the U16s and U17s, scoring three goals in eight games for the latter.Dowman and fellow youth star Ethan Nwaneri tussle for the ball in trainingCredit: GettyDowman has broken records, including youngest ever Uefa Youth League scorerCredit: GettyRed Devil praiseDowman’s potential hasn’t gone unnoticed by sportswear giants, either.Nike and Puma made early plays to sign him on a lucrative boot deal.Eventually, he chose Adidas to partner up with.And it’s not just in North London, where Dowman is being raved about.Ex-Man Utd star Rio Ferdinand tipped the talent to follow in the footsteps of Ethan Nwaneri by starring in the Gunners’ first team.”This isn’t to add pressure on these young players because I don’t want to do that, but I was just a bit disappointed in Arteta not giving Nwaneri a bit more of a chance,” Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel ‘Rio Ferdinand Presents’ back in November.”I saw him come on the other day against Inter, not only looking dangerous, he takes the ball, retains the ball, looks after it, plays like an adult. He plays that Odegaard position.READ MORE SUN STORIESDowman shows Euro 2024 winner Mikel Merino a clean set of heels at Arsenal’s winter training campCredit: GettyBehind the scenes, Arsenal are aware they have a gem in DowmanCredit: Getty”They’ve got another one under him by the way, a kid call Max Dowman. Please go online and check out this kid.”He was 14, I saw him coaching 18 and 19-year-olds on the pitch when he was playing with them. And he plays a little bit in that Odegaard position as well, bad player.” More

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    Inside Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr’s amazing lifestyle, from £10m mansion where Beckhams lived to trainer addiction

    VINICIUS JR is one of the world’s highest earning players.The Real Madrid superstar, 24, brings home a whopping salary of around £350,000-per-week at the Santiago Bernabeu.Vinicius Jr is one of the world’s highest paid footballersVinicius Jr shows off his amazing £165k BMWMaria Julia Mazalli is the reported girlfriend of the Real Madrid widemanThat affords the Brazilian winger an incredible lifestyle in Spain’s capital.Over the years, he’s driven a fleet of Audis, although now he’s settled with a £165,000 BMW.While he reportedly lives in a £10million mansion bought in 2018 in an affluent area of Madrid.SunSport looks at how Vinicius Jr spends his well-earned cash…Read football newsA Prince’s lifeVinicius Jr officially signed for Real Madrid in 2017 for a reported fee of around £40m.But he couldn’t join the club until a year later when he turned 18.As soon as he arrived, he splashed the cash on a stunning home in La Moraleja.It has been described as the Spanish version of Greenwich, Connecticut and where the uber rich live.Most read in FootballDavid Beckham, Karim Benzema, Ronaldo, and Gonzalo Higuain are just some of the former Los Blancos stars who have made La Moraleja home.Vinicius Jr wins Fifa The Best award after Ballon d’Or controversy while Man Utd ace Garnacho also bags top prizeThere are several pristine golf courses, as well as private schools.The property, itself, is only 15 minutes away from Real Madrid’s training ground and 30 minutes from the club’s stadium.The mansion boasts six bedrooms and six bathrooms, as well as several large living rooms.There is a state-of-the-art gym, which features a wall of the greatest athletes, including Kobe Bryant and Pele.Vinicius Jr also has a cinema room, steam room and sauna in his home.While outside there’s a private pool, tennis court, and astro turf football pitch.Vinicius Jr lives in the exclusive La Moraleja neighbourhoodAccording to reports, Vinicius Jr’s property is worth £10mBrazilian Vinicius Jr’s gym has artwork of sports’ biggest starsVinicius Jr lounges on the steps of his beautiful Madrid homeCar collectionVinicius Jr’s car collection has been linked to who Real Madrid are sponsored by.For years, he stuck with the club’s Audi policy – rotating a series of their cars.He began with an Audi A7 – that starts at £55,000.Next, he went with a spacious Q8 SUV that can rise up to £105,000.His final car from Audi was their Q7, which is available from about £70,000.All of those choices are fairly modest for a man who has a net worth already of around £21m.Back in September, Real Madrid inked a deal with BMW to be their latest car sponsor.That helped Vinicius Jr bag an amazing motor.He got his hands on a BMW i7 M70 xDrive, the fastest electrical model the German brand offers, which can cost around £165,000.Thanks to a deal with Audi, Vinicius Jr drove this A7Vinicius Jr also had a plush Q8 worth as much as £105kTrainier collectionAccording to Marca, Vinicius Jr has an addiction to buying trainers.His go-to are Nike Air Jordans, which he often shows off on social media.When asked why he has over 120 pairs, he revealed he loves them and couldn’t afford them as a kid.He headed to sneaker mecca Flight Club in Los Angeles to film a segment for Complex with Joe La Puma.On there, he revealed his love for Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1s – with some rare pieces online fetching as much as £12,000 online.His trainer collection is kept in a special closet in his home.Vinicius Jr shows off his epic trainer collection at his homeNike trainers are Vinicius Jr’s favouriteREAD MORE SPORT FEATURESSharing his wealthVinicius Jr’s romance with stunning model and influencer Maria Julia Mazalli was made public in 2019.Before then, the lightning quick wideman denied their romance.Brazilian newspaper Lance broke the story that Vini and Maria were in a relationship.It was all after fans speculated something between the two when they noticed selfies shared on their social media.The selfies were taken in the same bathroom in Madrid, which fans were quick to notice and from there the secret was out.They never shared how they met or whether they knew each other before they started dating.Maria didn’t gain fame from dating Vinicius Jr though.She already had many people following her on Instagram through her influencer posts and her appearance on the Brazilian reality TV show De Férias com o Ex.Contestants are chosen to go on vacation in a tropical paradise, however, it soon turns into hell as their ex-lovers start showing up.As for influencer content, Maria creates posts about fashion and travelling.She is very body-positive and embraces her curves in what she shares online.READ MORE SUN STORIESMaria promotes a healthy lifestyle which involves eating good food and working out.She loves travelling and can occasionally be seen supporting her boyfriend in the stands when he’s playing for Real Madrid or representing Brazil.Brazil beauty Maria Julia Mazalli is Vinicius Jr’s reported girlfriendGorgeous Maria shows off her epic bikini bodyMaria is a reality tv star and social media influencer More

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    Man City vs Real Madrid’s Wags, from a Love Island TV presenter who dated Stormzy to a Brazilian model and influencer

    REAL MADRID and Manchester City lock horns in the playoffs of the Champions League on Tuesday.It seemed an unlikely scenario, with both sides boasting a rich history in recent years in the competition.Maya Jama is reportedly a Man City WagCredit: GettyThe Love Island host is believed to be dating Portuguese ace Ruben DiasCredit: GettyGabriely Miranda is one of Real Madrid’s most recognised WagsCredit: INSTAGRAM @gabrielymiirandaHowever, City’s struggles with injuries and poor form has contributed towards their downfall this season.While Real Madrid have finally overtaken Barcelona in the title race, following a stuttering star, and have also flattered to deceive in Europe’s premier competition.Hoping their fortunes change will be the player’s Wags.From a Love Island host to a Brazilian model and influencer, SunSport invites you to meet their stunning partners.Read more football newsMaya JamaThe newest addition to City’s Wags, Maya is reportedly dating Portuguese defender Ruben Dias.The pair have kept their romance under wraps, which is believed to have begun around New Year’s Eve, with neither commenting on the romance.Famously, Maya had an on/off relationship with British rapper Stormzy.She has established a successful career in her own right as a TV presenter on Love Island.Most read in FootballAshlyn CastroUS influencer Ashlyn is the new reported girlfriend of Real Madrid and England superstar Jude Bellingham.Top ten Premier League managers’ WagsAshlyn and Bellingham were snapped heading for a lunch date in the Spanish capital in late January.It came after she watched the Real Madrid star from a private box at the Bernabeu alongside his parents Denise, 56, and dad Mark, 48.A model and influencer, Ashlyn hails from Los Angeles, California.She has been linked with a string of A-listers in recent years, including Creed actor Michael B. Jordan.Ashlyn Castro is reportedly dating Real Madrid ace Jude BellinghamCredit: InstagramUS influencer Ashley is believed to have dated Hollywood actor Michael B. JordanCredit: instagramSasha AttwoodSasha’s stock rose when partner Jack Grealish signed for Man City for £100million.She is a model and influencer, who has starred in huge ad campaigns for the likes of Boohoo and Pretty Little Thing.She has signed with Elite Model Management and has built up a huge online social media following.An incredible 331,000 plus followers on Instagram make her an attractive proposition for brands.Skincare is a huge market for her, with L’Oreal featuring in paid partnerships online and make-up tutorial videos she posts.She welcomed her first child with Grealish last September.Fashionista Sasha Attwood has a huge following of over 330,OOO on InstagramCredit: InstagramSasha has famously been in a longterm relationship with Jack GrealishCredit: instagram/@sasha__rebecca’read more sport featuresGabriely MirandaStunning Gabriely is also a model and influencer.Hailing from Brazil, she married wonderkid Endrick in 2024 after less than a year together.It was previously reported that the pair had a relationship contract.These included Endrick being banned from having a virtual girlfriend on Grand Theft Auto and also being forbidden from commenting on other girls’ Instagram accounts.It is also claimed that Endrick and Miranda must say ‘I love you’ to each other in all situations.Brazilian model Gabriely is also an influencerCredit: INSTAGRAM @gabrielymiirandaBlonde beauty Gabriely married teen sensation Endrick last yearCredit: Instagram / endrickInes TomazInes is part and parcel of Man City’s celebrations – appearing on the pitch at the Etihad to toast partner Bernardo Silva’s success, as well as joining the other Wags at exclusive dinners.They met in 2020, when they were introduced by pals in their native Portugal, getting engaged just two years later.The pair walked down the aisle in 2023 in front of team-mates including Ruben Dias and Kyle Walker.And in the same year they welcomed their first child together.Ines is a model signed to Portuguese agency NXT Management.Bikini model Ines Tomaz is a veteran Wag of the EtihadCredit: InstagramBernardo Silva and his glam partner Ines pose on the red carpet togetherCredit: GettyMaria MazalliWith over one million followers on Instagram, Maria is one of the most popular Wags on social media.The influencer is reportedly dating Real Madrid ace Vinicius Jr, who could be Real Madrid’s game-changer this weekend.A fashion queen, she is regularly sharing paid partnerships with brands to model their latest wear.She appeared on Brazilian TV show De Férias com o Ex, where contestants are chosen to go on vacation in a tropical paradise, however, it soon turns into hell as their ex-lovers start showing up.Maria Mazalli is the reported Wag of Vinicius JrCredit: majumazalli/InstagramMaria made her name on reality TV in her Brazilian homelandCredit: majumazalli/InstagramSara GundoganGorgeous Italian model Sara met Man City star Ilkay Gundogan in 2021.A year later, he popped the question before they married each other in a private ceremony in 2022.Sara was born in France but moved to Italy when she was young, where she worked as a TV presenter.She once sparked fury when she called the Manchester restaurant scene “horrible”.Italian model Sara Arfaoui has worked as a TV presenterCredit: Social media – Refer to sourceIlkay Gundogan and Sarta met in 2021 – marrying a year later in a private ceremonyCredit: InstagramMina BoninoArgie stunner Mina met partner Federico Valverde in 2019 on Instagram.The pair struck a romance soon after they agreed to meet up – and just two months later they were living together in Spain.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn 2020, Mina welcomed their first son Benicio into the world, while this year they added to their brood with another boy called Bautista.The Brunette beauty is a journalist who worked for Argentine TV and has over one million followers on Instagram.Federico Valverde’s Wag is Argentine TV journalist Mina BoninoCredit: Instagram / Mina BoninoMina and Valvede met on Instagram in 2019Credit: Instagram / @minabonino More

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    How Liverpool’s genius offside-buster and decision to drop trademark Klopp move gives them HUGE edge over Everton

    LIVERPOOL may no longer be able to win the Quadruple after the shock FA Cup exit to Plymouth, but the Treble is still very much on.Their next game is against Everton on Wednesday and could be pivotal in helping them land at least the Premier League title.Arne Slot’s Liverpool will be looking to bounce back from defeat at PlymouthCredit: AFPMohamed Salah has had a special role to play all season which has seen his numbers explodeCredit: APAndy Robertson has been key to Slot’s offside bustersCredit: EPAArne Slot’s side sit top of the table having lost just once all season.And a win in midweek will see them move nine points clear at the summit and set them well on their way to title number 20 – matching bitter rivals Manchester United.But bragging rights are on the table, and Everton are on a three-league game-winning run under returning boss David Moyes.However, Liverpool have several key weapons which should give them the edge in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHow offside trap is brokenThey might not have been able to bust their way through Plymouth’s defence, but Slot’s Liverpool certainly are offside busters.In a slight tweak to what Jurgen Klopp had his team doing last year, Liverpool have developed from 4-3-3 into an almost 4-1-5.That has come largely thanks to Ryan Gravenberch sitting in there, but more on him later.Liverpool, like any modern team, shift formations between attack and defence.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAnd like many of their rivals Slot’s side often end in a 3-2-5 formation when in possession, be that a full-back going in or a midfielder dropping.That is the simple bit. But the genius bit comes in when you look at their runners off the ball.Plymouth pull off FA Cup shock by beating Premier League leaders LiverpoolSlot has trained his side to bust an offside trap, with the key move often coming from the full-backs or deep midfielders.It could be Trent Alexander-Arnold or Andy Robertson on one side or Dominik Szoboszlai on the inside right, but it often ends up being the result of a lung-busting sprint.The players who do this – most often Robertson – don’t even want the ball during these runs, but do it to force the opposition backline back towards their own goal.This dummy run opens up more space for the players who do want the ball. And as simple as it sounds, it is not something that teams are figuring out.Robertson will start from start from deepThe defender is seen here gearing up to make his moveHis run disorientates opposition defencesIt forces them to drop back, giving more space to his team-matesHere we see Robertson right up on the opposition’s defensive lineHis attacking team-mates then join him, or exploit the space he has createdWhen Robertson makes these runs, it helps Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz stay onside and creates a gap between midfield and defence.It’s almost like an old-school computer game that makes you wonder where they are going.But there is a method to the madness and it has been seen against the likes of Manchester United, Tottenham and Crystal Palace.It is quite remarkable when you consider Liverpool rank second highest in the league for passes into the final third but third lowest for offside offences. What is in essence a confusion tactic is clearly working.Against Man Utd the run caused confusion before Cody Gakpo was played inThe runs mean rival defences drop a precious couple of yards, allowing Liverpool to get closer to the opposition goal without getting caught offsideSalah is the king of exploiting these spacesTaking turns in midfieldThe midfield is the single most important part of the Liverpool team.Klopp left Slot with a batch of good players to inherit, and many of those players are capable of running seemingly throughout the entire game.But when you take a closer look, you can see the midfield actually rotates in terms of doing the heavy-lifting..One of the players, usually Szobszlai or Alexis Mac Allister with Gravenberch sitting, will sprint and run forward into space to disrupt the opposition.However, this is never the same player and varies from attack to attack. That is different to the all-out pressing of Klopp’s famed and hugely successful heavy metal football.Importantly, by doing one-in-three, Liverpool players are able to save some energy and not risk the system breaking down by leaving one player exposed.Class, the Dutchy on the left-hand sideCody Gakpo, what a player. He had a difficult first season in England with his best position not quite being completely clear.But under Slot, Gakpo has become a bit of everything – a winger, second striker and main striker.Gakpo and Diaz form such an effective attacking partnership because they are completely interchangeable.When a long ball is needed, Gakpo will often drift into the left inside channel, where he can win more in the air while Diaz drifts out to the left flank.Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz have a great rapport on the left flankGakpo is smart enough to drift to the far post when the ball moves rightWhen you then add the aforementioned deep runs from Robertson to break the offside trap, that can then allow for a ball into the feet of Diaz where he can then attack the space in front of him.Even if the ball goes out to the right, Gakpo will then drift over to the left to attack the ball at the far post.It’s a fantastic left-hand side rotation.But it must be a nightmare for any right-back who ends up trying to pick up as many as three players making simultaneous runs.No tracking back, Mo problemThere are moments when even the imperious Liverpool have to defend, although Salah is exempt from that requirement.And it is not that he is lazy, far from it. In fact, the Kop’s Egyptian king has been told he doesn’t have to get back. But like all things with Slot, there is a plan.One of the key reasons he has been allowed to stay forward is Slot moving towards a system with more traditional full-backs.On Salah’s side, Alexander-Arnold is not inverting most weeks, meaning the opposition full-back does not simply have the run of that side of the field.Instead, Salah is a hidden weapon for when Liverpool launch their counter-attacks because he is one of the most dangerous players in transition in the Premier League.So with the support of Diaz and Gakpo and the immense midfield three, Salah is actually able to be carried a bit out of his defensive duties.Of course, him staying forward means the opposition need to leave two back to keep him in check, which automatically helps Liverpool to win the numbers game.Less running also means he is able to impact games more effectively later on as he still has a burst of energy.Gravenberch in the key SlotIt is no secret that Gravenberch did not exactly shine under Klopp, but under Slot, he could be the single most important player in the team.When the Dutchman arrived many people profiled him as an eight or attacking midfielder given his time at Ajax and Bayern Munich.But he has turned out to actually be best suited to being a deep-lying player.There is no higher compliment to be given than calling him what he rightly is – Liverpool’s Rodri.He is expertly able to back up play, whereby he follows the ball as it goes from left to right and vice versa.His physical presence also means he is rarely fussed about an opposition player coming into his area as he is simply able to win the ball before zipping a pass straight back towards the team-mates in front of him.READ MORE SUN STORIESGravenberch is able to keep feeding the beast that is Liverpool’s attack. And it is no exaggeration to say that if it was not for the spectacular year Salah is having, he would probably be the best player in the league this season. I love watching him. More

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    Inside Kyle Walker’s life in Milan, from five star Melia Milano hotel stay to dining at rival footballer’s restaurant

    KYLE Walker is settling into life at AC Milan with ease.The England defender, 34, joined the Serie A giants after eight trophy-laden years with Manchester City.Kyle Walker has settled into a new life in MilanCredit: GettyWalker is currently staying at the five-star Melia MilanoCredit: Gary StoneThe hotel is in the heart of the city and close to the San SiroBut, a new challenge in Italy is just the ticket for Walker in his twilight years.He made his debut against fierce rivals Inter in a 1-1 draw last weekend, and followed that up with an impressive performance in the 3-1 Coppa Italia win over Roma.Away from the pitch, Walker is enjoying his stay at the five-star Melia Milano hotel.It’s a 40-minute journey to the training ground, while he’s closer to the San Siro Stadium, which is a 10-minute drive.Read more football news Walker, who has amassed a £27million fortune, has already enjoyed the fine cuisine of Milan.Recently, he dined out at the exclusive Coraje restaurant – owned by a rival Inter Milan footballer.SunSport takes a look into Walker’s life in the industrial city.Where he’s stayingWhile Walker is acclimatising to his new surroundings, he is staying at the five Melia Milano hotel in the city centre.Most read in FootballIf his six-month loan is a success, and the deal becomes permanent, expect him to splash the cash on a lavish place of his own.Kyle Walker’s wife Annie Kilner set to get £750k to star in Celeb Big Brother – but only if bosses agree to strict ruleRooms at the sleek and stylish Melia Milano start at £400-per-night and can cost as much as £880-per-night for a business suite.It is believed that AC Milan negotiated a deal for Walker to have a premium room at the hotel.The Italian club regularly house new arrivals there, when the player’s arrive from foreign shores on loan.On the hotel’s website, it claims it boasts ‘innovative design and elegance’.It is perfectly located – just 15 minutes drive from fashionable boutiques, including Prada, Versace, Giorgio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci.While restaurants Hollywood and Crazy Pizza are close by – and firm favourites for Milan’s stars and their Wags.The Melia Milano boasts innovative design and eleganceRooms start at £400-per-night at the luxury hotelMilan have reportedly put Walker up in a premium suite in the hotelThe Melia Milano boasts plush furniture in their coffee shopread more sport featuresWhere he’s playingLuckily for Walker, the Melia Milano is just an eight minute drive to the San Siro, where his club play their home games.He could even walk the 1.1 miles distance in next to no time.However, Milan’s stunning training ground is a bit more of a trek.The Milanello Sports Center is found on a 300 metre high hill, some 31 miles away from the centre and close to the old town of Varese – famed for its art-nouveau villas.Surrounded by a pine forest and pond, not only does it offer its players tranquility – there’s state-of-the-art gyms, medical facilities and numerous pitches.The most interesting of those is ‘the cage’ – which is surrounded by a 2.30 metre wall and a 2.50 metre high fence.The idea is for the ball to stay continuously in play, which increases the speed of handling the game.Walker’s office is the Milanello Sports Center training groundCredit: Not known, clear with picture deskThe training ground is surrounded by a lush forest in a picturesque settingState-of-the-art facilities gives the players all they needUtilising its location, there is a 1,200 metre path in the woods used for physical training, like jogging and cycling, and for the rehabilitation of injured players.Who he’s playing withWalker should feel at home in Milan – thanks to some familiar faces.For he is one of four English players currently on Milan’s roster.That includes starting striker Tammy Abraham, who is on loan from Roma, ex-Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and England defender Fikayo Tomori.Better still, Milan also boast a who’s who of former Premier League talent, who Walker will have come up against in the past.The like of Christian Pulisic, Emerson Royal, and fellow loanee Joao Felix all will ply their trade at AC Milan as Walker settles in.Walker is surrounded by English teammates including Tammy AbrahamCredit: GettyFormer Chelsea star Ruben Loftus-Cheek also plays at AC MilanCredit: AlamyWhere he’s eatingWe mentioned Hollywood and Crazy Pizza as the places as hotspots for Serie A’s finest, but in his first few days in the city Walker dined at the posh Coraje eaterie.Intriguingly, for an AC Milan star at least, a visit there is like treading on enemy territory.It is co-owned by Inter Milan star Lautaro Martinez and his gorgeous Wag Agustina Gandolfo.Walker was joined by an entourage of Milan officials, which meant safety in numbers.And they would have enjoyed a hearty meal with plenty of mediterranean favourites.Walker dined at posh eaterie Coraje with Milan officials recentlyThe restaurant is owned by Inter Milan star Lautaro Martinez and his Wag Agustina GandolfoHearty risotto meals are served at CorajeCustomers can also enjoy a rib eye steak with vegetablesFrom rib eye steak to vegetable risottos, seafood, and more the menu is extensive.READ MORE SUN STORIESYou also don’t need to earn a footballer’s salary to dine there – with mains costing anywhere between £17 to £30.It’s safe to say, Walker’s got it made in Milan. 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