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      in Soccer

      Seven Man Utd flops who were a success after leaving including Romelu Lukaku, Memphis Depay and Wilfried Zaha

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      PLAYING for Manchester United can be a heavy burden for some players, even the very best.And many find their way again after moving away from Old Trafford to the frustration of supporters.
      These former Man Utd stars flourished away from Old Trafford
      These seven did especially well after leaving the Premier League giants behind.
      From a Uruguayan legend to a Dutch star who’s just earned a transfer to Barcelona, here’s the flops for whom life got much better after leaving United.
      ROMELU LUKAKU
      The Belgium centre forward is definitely the one that got away.
      Often, Lukaku was deemed not good enough by supporters who felt he was overweight and cumbersome.
      However, he now cuts a more shredded figure at Inter Milan, where a new diet and fitness regime has seen the striker lose 16lbs and get into the best shape of his career.
      Lukaku also rediscovered his goal touch and has 64 strikes in his two seasons at the San Siro.
      Romelu Lukaku lost his way at Old Trafford and was criticised by supportersCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      After shifting over a stone in weight, Lukaku is one of Serie A’s most feared strikers at InterCredit: AFP
      MEMPHIS DEPAY
      In 2015, United splashed £25million on the Dutch star on the insistence of Louis van Gaal.
      But Depay looked lost at sea on our shores, playing 53 times and managing just seven goals.
      Two seasons later he was sold to Lyon for £20million, where he rediscovered his form.
      This summer, after scoring 76 goals in 178 games, he is back on the big stage again and has joined Barcelona on a free transfer.
      Memphis Depay struggled for goals at Old TraffordCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      After moving to Lyon, Depay has re-emerged for club and country – recently signing for Barcelona
      ANGEL DI MARIA
      It’s not uncommon for Argentinian stars to lose their way at Old Trafford – with Juan Sebastian Veron also struggling on our shores.
      Di Maria was a marquee signing in 2014 for a British transfer record fee of £60million.
      In his only season, he managed just four goals in 32 games and soon fell out of favour with boss van Gaal.
      A year later he was sold to PSG for £40million, where he has scored double figures in goals in five of his six seasons with the French club, as well as been integral in four Ligue 1-winning campaigns.
      Angel Di Maria was a marquee signing for the Red Devils costing £60mCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      After his Manchester United nightmare, Di Maria found his feet at PSGCredit: AFP
      WILFRIED ZAHA
      In 2013, United moved to sign Zaha from Crystal Palace for £15million – in what was Sir Alex Ferguson’s final acquisition for the club.
      A year later he found himself out of favour under new boss David Moyes and was loaned out to Cardiff City.
      Zaha would later say he never felt he was given a fair chance at Old Trafford.
      He was loaned to the Eagles, who eventually bought him back for £10million – and he’s gone on to become one of the Premier League’s biggest danger men.
      Wilfried Zaha argued that he didn’t get a chance at Old TraffordCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      After returning to Crystal Palace in 2015, Zaha became one of the Premier League’s best playersCredit: Getty
      DALEY BLIND
      A lot of Blind’s problems at Old Trafford stemmed from where managers thought he should play.
      Was he a left-back? Should he play in a midfield holding role? Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho just couldn’t work him out.
      In 2018, the Dutch international returned to Ajax, where he has won two league titles and contributed to the club’s brilliant Champions League run in 2019… playing at centre back.
      And at the Euros, he has starred for the Netherlands.
      Daley Blind struggled in various positions at Manchester United, including left-back and in midfieldCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      At Ajax, as a ball-playing centre half, Blind has impressedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      DIEGO FORLAN
      At the time, Forlan was a costly £7million buy for United in 2002.
      However, in his first 13 Premier League games and five Champions League games he was ridiculed for failing to hit the back of the net.
      United sold him to LaLiga’s Villarreal, where he was an instant hit scoring 25 league goals and winning the Spanish Golden Boot trophy and the European Golden Shoe in his first season.
      He would repeat that trick in 2009 at Atletico Madrid – scoring a sensational 32 goals in 33 games.
      In his first 18 games with the club, Diego Forlan failed to score for Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Forlan found his shooting boots in LaLiga, first with Villarreal and then with Atletico Madrid
      RADAMEL FALCAO
      The Colombian striker, now 35, is currently starring for Galatasaray, where he has 20 goals in 40 games.

      At Old Trafford, on loan from Monaco, he really struggled with just four goals in 29 games, although a serious knee injury and a struggle to initially return to fitness hindered him.
      After his Manchester United nightmare, a poor spell at Chelsea followed.
      But a return to Monaco helped Falcao find his Midas touch again. He scored 70 goals in his last three seasons with the French giants before continuing his rejuvenation in his twilight years in Turkey.

      Radamel Falcao’s loan move to Manchester United was a disasterCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      Returning to Monaco was Falcao’s saving grace and he scored 70 goals in three seasons with the club after spell in EnglandCredit: Reuters
      Souness says Bruno Fernandes ‘would not have lasted five minutes in my dressing room’ after Man Utd star’s moaning More

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      Bukayo Saka was model student with A* GCSEs who snubbed Chelsea for Arsenal and is England’s new hero at Euro 2020

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      IT was a performance where Bukayo Saka came of age on the biggest stage.Arsenal fans will tell you how impressed they’ve been with the 19-year-old since he’s broke into the Gunners team in 2018, not just with his all-action displays but also his maturity.
      Bukayo Saka delivered a coming-of-age performance at the Euros against Czech RepublicCredit: Reuters
      After the game Saka clutches his man-of-the-match trophy for his performance against Czech RepublicCredit: Getty
      Arsenal star Saka was born in West London and rose through the ranks with the Gunners from the age of seven
      Against Czech Republic in the Euros, the talented winger produced a man-of-the-match display that’ll surely give manager Gareth Southgate a selection headache ahead of the Three Lions’ last-16 tie next Tuesday.
      Saka was born and raised in Ealing, West London, where he was taught the importance of being grounded and humble by his Nigerian immigrant parents.
      It’s a trait that has served the teenager well as he rapidly ascended through the Arsenal ranks, with coaches comparing him to Cristiano Ronaldo.
      He attended Greenford High School, where he juggled football with his education.
      And the now-poster boy for New Balance blitzed through his studies – leaving with four A*s and three As in his GCSE’s.
      ‘ADDS TO HAPPINESS’
      The name ‘Bukayo’ originates from the Yoruba tribe who are found in southern Nigeria.
      Ironically, it translates to ‘adds to happiness’, which is exactly what Saka has done for Arsenal and England fans since he exploded on the scene.
      It all began for the forward at the Premier League giants’ Hale End academy at the age of seven before signing for the club at nine.
      His father, a Newcastle fan who loved Alan Shearer, took Bukayo to his first match when he was eight at St James’ Park, and he simply fell in love with the game.
      Saka’s rise has seen him become a poster boy for New Balance
      Arsenal nurtured Saka’s talent as he rose through the ranksCredit: Getty
      As he progressed through the ranks in North London, he struck up a relationship with his idol Freddie Ljungberg while they worked together in the U15s.
      There was talk of him pursuing his career elsewhere, with the likes of Spurs and Chelsea hoping to lure the youngster away from Arsenal.
      But they stood no chance of taking him away from his first love.
      “I had invitations from Spurs, Chelsea, Fulham and Watford but the only choice was Arsenal,” explained Saka.
      “I enjoyed the way that they played so the choice was easy for me.”
      Saka was compared to Portuguese superstar Ronaldo by coaches and was clearly a talent set for the top.
      But he remained hard-working with the advice of his father ringing in his ears, and never got carried away with his success.
      “He’s a massive inspiration for me,” Saka has said of his dad in the past.
      “From when I was young, he always kept me grounded, kept me humble.”
      MODEL STUDENT
      Saka’s former teachers at Greenford High School paint a picture of a modest and exemplary pupil who was full of talent.
      Saka’s former teachers, including Mark Harvey (to his right) and Dipesh Patel (next to Harvey) spoke of Saka’s modesty
      At Greenford High School Saka’s signed England and Arsenal shirts hang on a hallway
      “He was quite a role model student to be honest with you,” PE teacher Mark Harvey revealed to talkSPORT.
      “He was a model student and academically sound across the board. He was very, very good at PE, a naturally talented sportsman.
      “No matter what sport he played he’d always be very good at it. He had quite a small social group of friends, a close knit group of boys who are all still close now.
      “But he was really pleasant student who was perceived well by his staff.
      “Every single day you saw Bukayo, you saw he was active in some way shape or form.”
      Saka’s former football coach at Greenford High School, Dipesh Patel has spoken of pride at his student’s rapid rise.
      “We are all so proud of him,” he told Goal.
      “We always knew he was amazing. But we obviously couldn’t have expected him to have had the last year-and-a-half that he has had, breaking into the Arsenal team, being such a massive player for them and then getting into the England squad.
      “It’s just incredible the rise he has had.”
      Appearing for England at the Euros has made Saka’s school proudCredit: Getty
      Bukayo Saka at Greenford High School: always ready to learn, so respectful towards staff and peers, wonderful family and top grades. Such a proud night! #bbcfootball #LearningToSucceed— Greenford High School (@ghsofficial) June 22, 2021

      Modest Saka shows off his darts skills during a media day at St George’s ParkCredit: Reuters
      Saka starred in Patel’s school football team – helping them win the Borough Cup final.
      Patel revealed how he was awe-struck by his ability at a young age.
      “The first time I saw him it was just ‘wow’,” said Patel.
      “He was very special. In his first year we lost in the Borough Cup final, but the next year we won it all.
      “We won the Ealing Borough competition, the league, the cup and then we won the County Cup.
      “For our school that was a first and maybe a last. It was incredible. It just had such a positive impact on our school and Bukayo was key to that.
      “He just gave us that extra edge with his quality, especially in some of the tighter moments. But It wasn’t all about him. He was always such a massive team player.”
      HAILED BY A LEGEND
      If it wasn’t his teachers, it was Arsenal legends who were touting Saka for the top.
      Not only did he have Ljungberg championing his cause, he also impressed Thierry Henry, who briefly spent time as an academy coach with the Gunners.
      “You could see that he wanted to run at people,” Henry said.
      “He always wanted the ball and he was brave on the ball.

      In 2018, Saka broke into the Arsenal first teamCredit: AFP
      France and Arsenal legend Thierry Henry was awe-struck by Saka’s abilityCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      By 2019 Saka had become an Arsenal regular and firm fans’ favouriteCredit: Reuters
      Saka shows off the FA Cup trophy he won with Arsenal in 2020Credit: Getty
      “It was too early to tell [how good he would be], but when I saw him breaking into the first team after I’d left, I was like wow. It’s amazing.
      “I always liked the attitude of the kid and the commitment. What I like about him is that he cares about his club and he will do whatever to make sure that the team wins. You have to respect that.”
      Saka made his competitive debut for the club in 2018 in the Europa League against Vorskla Poltava – coming on as a 68th minute substitute for Aaron Ramsey.
      In January, 2019 a Premier League debut came against Fulham in a 4-1 win – appearing off the bench in the 83rd minute.
      His introduction made history as Saka became the first player born in 2001 to play in a Premier League match.
      ACCOLADES KEEP COMING
      In what has just been a tough season for his club, Saka has shone bright.
      It was no wonder the Arsenal faithful voted him as their Player of the Season – winning a unanimous 51 per cent of the vote.
      With seven goals and 10 assists in his 46 appearances, he carried his club at times.

      The accolades keep coming for Saka, who shows off his London Football Awards Young Player of the Year AwardCredit: Arsenal Football Club
      Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has praised Saka’s intelligenceCredit: Getty
      Gareth Southgate now has a selection headache after Saka’s star-turn against the CzechsCredit: Getty
      Boss Mikel Arteta has repeatedly praised Saka for his performances, especially his “intelligence” that makes him unique on the pitch.
      “We talk about physicality, we talk about spirit, we talk about technique. But the brain is the one that makes all the decisions,” Arteta told Sky Sports.

      “‘B’ makes a lot of good decisions because he is such an intelligent player who can read situations. After that, of course, he has the ability to execute them the right way and that’s obviously a big quality.”
      It’s a quality that England gaffer Gareth Southgate recognises, who has already given Saka five starts for his country.
      Amazingly, he’s won the Man of the Match award three times.
      The question will remain all week; will he earn another in the last-16 clash? Well, he hasn’t harmed his chances so far. More

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      in Soccer

      Hunky Czech hero Patrik Schick idolised David Beckham and almost quit football to be a model like his sister

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      CZECH Republic poster-boy Patrik Schick has turned heads for his football ability and good looks.The 25-year-old Bayer Leverkusen striker earned the plaudits for his stunning 50-yard strike against Scotland at the Euros.
      Handsome Patrik Schick has been one of the stars of Euro 2020Credit: AP
      Schick, pictured with beautiful wife Hana, considered ditching football for a modelling careerCredit: Instagram @schickhana
      But the hotshot forward, looking to down England on Tuesday, considered quitting a career in football to be a model.
      It was while at Sparta Prague as a teen that Schick was swayed by the allure of the catwalk.
      Instead, it’s a career-path his beautiful sister Kristyna has followed travelling to modelling assignments around the globe for various fashion campaigns.
      IDOLISED BECKHAM
      Although Schick has been compared to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the 6ft 3in star was obsessed by David Beckham as a kid.
      Growing up in Prague, where both Czech legends Pavel Nedved and Tomas Rosicky emerged as heroes for Sparta, it was pictures of the Manchester United legend that adorned his bedroom wall.
      Then, when Cristiano Ronaldo came on the scene, it was another Red Devils star who captured Schick’s imagination.
      It’s poetic that with three goals already to his name at Euro 2020, he is level with the Portuguese legend at the top of the scoring charts.
      Schick is top of scoring charts at Euro 2020 alongside his idol Cristiano RonaldoCredit: AP
      Schick tried to model his game after both of his idols and was talent-spotted by Sparta Prague scouts aged 11.
      However, it was away from the famous Czech team he would make his name.
      BOHEMIAM RHAPSODY
      Schick made his debut for Sparta aged 18, but with competition for places it was deemed best for his development that he was loaned out.
      For the 2015-16 season, he crossed town to join Bohemians 1905, where he impressed coach Roman Pivarnik.
      “He was eager to work on himself, very clever and polite,” Pivarnik told the MailOnline.
      “But he had his own opinions and was not shy to express them. Finishing was his strength, so he should focus on that.
      “I told him he needs to be tougher when he presses. In youth football he wasn’t interested in playing without the ball.
      Schick has been praised in the past for his excellent hold-up playCredit: Getty
      Patrick Schick’s amazing goal against Scotland
      “We had an argument about that and I put him on the bench. Once, I had to raise my voice in the dressing room.
      “He stayed silent but he didn’t take it as an insult. He had amazing strength. He thought about it and then put in work. He returned to the line-up very quickly.”
      HEY GOOD LOOKIN’
      With his chiselled good looks, Schick did toy with the idea of quitting football before his emergence at Bohemians.
      And it wouldn’t be inconceivable to imagine strapping Patrik fronting a campaign for Dolce & Gabbana or channeling Zoolander at Milan Fashion Week.
      But, with his football career taking off, sport came first.
      His sister Kristyna, 26, however IS a model.
      Standing at 5ft 10in tall, the brunette stunner was on the books of NEXT Model Management.
      Kristyna Schickova is the model sister of Czech hotshot Patrik SchickCredit: Instagram @kristynaschickova
      The 26-year-old brunette beauty is 5ft 10in tallCredit: Instagram @kristynaschickova
      Schickova worked on fashion campaigns in LA and New YorkCredit: Instagram @kristynaschickova

      She spent time in LA, worked on campaigns in New York, before returning to Prague.
      Kristyna now runs her own fashion boutqiue, Be S.CHIC.K.
      A MOVE TO ITALY
      Ironically, Patrik Schick did end up in fashionable Italy… not for being handsome, but for his football ability.
      In 2016, Sampdoria paid £3million for his services and he turned out to be one of the bargains of the season.
      He scored 11 times in 32 matches, but only 14 of those appearances were starts.
      His debut campaign in Serie A alerted the big boys, and Juventus reportedly triggered a £25million clause in his contract.
      However, Juve pulled the plug on the dream move after he failed two medicals.
      Schick was a hit at Sampdoria in Serie ACredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Juventus pulled the plug on a deal for Schick after he failed a medicalCredit: LaPresse
      PHANTOM HEART CONDITION
      Before he could pen-to-paper to play for Italy’s then-champions, doctors raised concerns of Schick having a possible heart condition.
      An inflammation in his ticker was enough to dissuade Juventus from concluding a deal.
      Further medical tests would prove the target man was free of any cardiac problems.
      Two months after his proposed move to Juventus fell through, Schick completed a £4million loan move to Roma with a £15million obligation to buy, if he proved to be a success.
      He has no regrets that a move to the Old Lady didn’t come to fruition.
      “Do I wonder what might have been? No, I’ve already closed it out,” he told Czech newspaper Lidovky.
      Schick did move to Roma after his failed Juventus moveCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Despite his failed medical at Juventus, Schick doesn’t look back with regretCredit: EPA
      “I never looked back at it, it wouldn’t be worth it. I was glad to move to Roma and I had no regrets that Juventus didn’t work out.
      “After the first round of medicals I knew there was a heart problem. They told me right away.”
      LOVE OF HIS LIFE
      Away from football, Patrik places his trust in the love of his life, Hana.
      The pair were longterm partners, before they tied the knot in a fairytale wedding in 2019.
      The ceremony took place in a castle, where everything was decorated with pink flowers.
      Hana Běhounková is Schick’s wifeCredit: Instagram @schickhana
      Like Schick, Hana is also from the Czech Republic
      The happy couple welcomed their first child, Victoria into the world in 2020Credit: Instagram @schickhana
      She has been his confidant and was always a regular at the Stadio Olimpico.
      Last year, they welcomed their first child – a girl they named Victoria.
      STILL PROVING HIMSELF
      It didn’t work out for Schick in the Italian capital, although he was often deployed in a wide role.
      Eight goals in 58 games saw him surplus to requirements and for the 2019-20 he was loaned out to RB Leipzig.
      In Germany, he rediscovered his form alongside prolific goalscorer Timo Werner.
      Schick flopped at Roma and had to rediscover his form in GermanyCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Centre forward Schick looks like a striker reborn at the EurosCredit: AP

      10 goals in 28 games alerted Bayer Leverkusen to his services, who were happy to shell out £25million to sign him in 2020.
      He has continued to prosper in Germany, although is aware he needs to add more goals to his game.
      It might just be that his goalscoring turn at the Euros will give him the confidence to become a more lethal predator in the box in years to come. More

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      Biggest boot deals in football ever, from Neymar’s record-breaking agreement with Puma to Ronaldo’s contract with Nike

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      FILL YOUR BOOTS!Neymar has signed a world record Puma boot deal, following his exploits for PSG in leading the French giants to their first ever Champions League final.

      He leaves his rivals in his wake, signing a contract worth a world-record £23million per year.
      But who else makes a fortune wearing sponsored boots? Let SunSport give the biggest footwear deals in the game, and what these stars earn per year.
      1. NEYMAR, £23M
      The enigmatic Brazilian forward dropped Nike to join rivals Puma and was rewarded with the largest individual sports sponsorship contract in history.
      It’s not known how long the deal will last, but his previous agreement with Nike was for 11 years and was worth half of his new Puma deal.
      Neymar posted on social media: “I grew up watching videos of great football legends such as Pele, Cruyff, Eusebio and Maradona, who each played in Puma.
      “For these reasons, from today onward, I have the honour to unite with the brand that helped the biggest legends of football become what they are.”
      Neymar recently signed the biggest boot deal in historyCredit: Reuters
      2. MESSI, £18M
      The second footballer to become a billionaire (the first was Cristiano Ronaldo), Messi is now into the second spot on the best boot deals of all time.
      In 2017, the Barcelona legend signed an extension to his boot deal with adidas – giving him a lifetime contract with the company.
      He was the first footballer to release a sub-brand of adidas boots – the adidas Messi.
      As the years pass, and when Messi finally hangs up his boots, that could be just as lucrative for the forward as the Air Jordan brand Nike created for Michael Jordan.
      Lionel Messi has a sub brand of boots available through AdidasCredit: Facebook
      3. RONALDO, £15M
      As Nike’s prize asset, Ronaldo is their top earner.
      However, Neymar’s contract now dwarfs his by £8m.
      But Ronaldo can take comfort his deal will pay out more than Neymar’s – being reportedly worth £780m over a lifetime.
      CR7 is only the third athlete to sign a lifetime deal with Nike, along with Michael Jordan and LeBron James.
      Cristiano Ronaldo has a lifetime deal with NikeCredit: Rex Features
      4. MBAPPE, £14M
      Nike’s poster-boy, in 2019 Kylian Mbappe was subject to a bidding war between with his current sponsors and adidas.
      He penned a 10-year deal worth around £140m, which is believed to be active as long as he plays in a top league.
      The PSG superstar was reportedly buoyed to join Nike, following in the footsteps of his idol Ronaldo.
      He is the one who could challenge Neymar’s position at the top in years to come aged just 22.
      Kylian Mbappe has the potential to be football’s biggest earner in years to comeCredit: Splash News
      5. BALOTELLI, £5M
      In 2014, Italian golden boy Mario Balotelli was on top of his game against for AC Milan.
      A key member of the Italian national team, he was the country’s best hope of glory.
      So when his contract with Nike expired, Puma swooped with a 10-year deal worth around £5m per year.
      Now at a crossroads in his career, he’s not as marketable as he once was.
      Mario Balotelli receives £5m-per-year from Puma for wearing their bootsCredit: EPA
      6. BALE, £4M
      The Welsh wizard, who spent last season on loan at Spurs, earns around £18m per year from Real Madrid.
      And he has exclusive sponsorship deals with the likes of EA Sports, Lucozade and adidas, to name just a few.
      It’s his contract with the German sports manufacturers that is his most lucrative, however, earning Gareth Bale around £4m per annum.
      It’s certainly enough to keep Bale in golf clubs.
      Bale is still contracted to wear Adidas bootsCredit: PA:Press Association
      7. GRIEZMANN, £3.5M
      In 2015, Antoine Griezmann extended his boot deal with Puma to the tune of £3.5million-per-year.
      In that time, he became a global superstar – leaving Atletico Madrid for Barcelona in a deal worth around £108m.
      In 2019, to celebrate Griezmann’s 10-year anniversary with Puma, they released his special boot – a limited edition Future 4.1 NETFIT Grizi priced at £229.
      He was one of Puma’s headline players until Neymar came along.
      Antoine Griezmann is one of Puma’s headline playersCredit: Reuters
      8. POGBA, £3M
      The Manchester United midfielder is well worth his £3m per year fee adidas pay him.
      Not only does he appear in almost every TV ad the brand brings to our screens, he’s also on every poster advertising the latest Predator boots.
      His 10-year deal worth around £30m doesn’t expire till 2024.
      Pogba was another Nike were desperate to add to their roster.
      Paul Pogba is a poster boy for Adidas
      9. VERRATTI, £2.5M
      The PSG midfielder’s contract with Puma expired in 2017, at which point Marco Verratti wore blacked out Puma evoTOUCH boots in training.
      Eventually, he signed a massive deal with Nike – lacing up a pair of the Hypervenom Phantom III’s.
      It’s not known how long the deal is. However, £2.5m is not to be sneezed at.
      Puma pay Marco Verratti £2.5m to wear their boots alongside PSG team-mate NeymarCredit: Icon Sport – Getty
      10. SALAH, £2.5M
      The Liverpool forward has become one of the most marketable faces in the game, especially in Africa and the Middle East.

      He is sponsored by Adidas, alongside lucrative deals with the likes of Pepsi and Vodafone in Egypt.
      It sees Mo Salah wear the X18 football boots, and get paid extremely well for it.
      That endorsement generates £2.5m per year.
      Mo Salah shows off his Adidas boots in training Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd More

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      From Beckham to Maldini, the footy legends who have managed to keep incredible body physiques after retiring

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      AFTER decades of training hard and watching what they eat – and drink – it must be tempting for footballers to hit McDonald’s and the off licence after hanging their boots.But this lot have proven it is possible to avoid the temptation of making up for lost time at the takeaway.
      David Beckham still looks in elite shape despite retiring nearly a decade agoCredit: Splash News
      Beckham looks as good now as he did in his heydayCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      From David Beckham to Paolo Maldini, check out the former football stars who maintained their elite physiques when their career was long-gone…
      DAVID BECKHAM
      BELIEVE it or not, Golden Balls retired from football with his swansong spell at Paris Saint-Germain SEVEN years ago.
      Despite that, Becks, 46, has kept a footballer’s frame.
      Now owner of MLS side Inter Miami and a part-owner of Salford City alongside his Class of 92 pals, Beckham is still very much involved in football.
      Beckham is still a very marketable name too, regularly popping up in adverts an even movies, including a role in The Man From U.N.C.L.E. in 2015.
      PAOLO MALDINI
      Paolo Maldini shirtless at the beach in MiamiCredit: Splash News
      Maldini arguably looks stronger now than he did as a playerCredit: Getty – Contributor
      NOW aged 52, Maldini is still in tip-top shape.
      The AC Milan legend spent his whole career at the San Siro and is arguably the best defender of all time.
      But despite retiring in 2009, Maldini has kept fit by turning his hand to professional tennis, competing at the Aspria Tennis Cup in Milan in 2017.
      Maldini is now back at AC Milan, working as technical director.
      RIO FERDINAND
      Rio Ferdinand looks stronger than ever despite retiring five years agoCredit: Instagram
      Rio Ferdinand has certainly bulked up since his playing days endedCredit: Getty – Contributor
      THE Manchester United and England legend hung up his boots in 2015 and has remained fighting fit ever since.
      In fact, Ferdinand was linked with a career in boxing at one stage, before pulling the plug after failing to obtain a licence.
      Now most often seen as a pundit, Ferdinand is still in elite shape – and would prove more than a handful for most strikers.
      GARY LINEKER
      Gary Lineker has still kept his shape despite approaching 60Credit: Splash News
      Lineker looks as good now as he did at Italia 90Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      HE may be well-known for his “other career” selling Walker’s crisps, but it would seem Lineker stays clear of the spuds.
      The Match of the Day host looks in fine shape aged 60.
      Lineker is regularly spotted hitting the beach in just his swim-shorts, looking as fit as he did in his 20s.
      ROBERTO MANCINI
      Roberto Mancini looks as slim and suave as ever now aged 55Credit: Splash News
      Roberto Mancini appears to have only got better with ageCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      ANOTHER regularly spotted soaking up the sun is Italy boss Mancini.
      At the age of 56, Mancini is still in remarkable shape.
      And to think he hung up his boots nearly 20 years ago…
      ZINEDINE ZIDANE
      Zinedine Zidane is still lean as ever, despite retiring 14 years ago
      Zidane looks as in shape as he was as a playerCredit: AFP
      THE ex-Real Madrid boss could still probably get a game for Los Blancos now aged 48.
      Zidane quit the game after his infamous headbutt in the 2006 World Cup final.
      But since then he’s forged a career as one of the world’s top bosses – and clearly does his cardio along with the squad.
      FRANCESCO TOTTI
      Francesco Totti still looks lean and mean having retiredCredit: Instagram / @francescototti
      Francesco Totti is in as good shape as he was when he was a player at RomaCredit: AFP or licensors
      INREDIBLY, Totti spent 25 years in the Roma first-team squad.
      After hanging up his boots in 2017, you couldn’t blame Totti for taking it easy and enjoying the incredible food Rome has to offer.
      But instead, the 44-year-old still looks in incredible shape.
      ANDREA PIRLO
      Andrea Pirlo still looks as cool as ever now aged 42Credit: Splash News
      Andrea Pirlo looks to be in good shape even having hung up his bootsCredit: Getty
      THE coolest man in football may no longer play, but he’s still uber-cool.
      The Italian ace never relied on his physicality on the pitch, but he still looks in fine shape.
      Aged 42, Pirlo is working towards earnings his Uefa Pro Licence coaching badges – and can still easily rock that beach look.

      ANTONIO CONTE
      Antonio Conte is still happy to channel his inner-Daniel Craig aged 51Credit: Xposure
      Antonio Conte’s hair has certainly improved since giving up footballCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      MUCH like Mancini, Conte couldn’t resist stripping down to his Speedos while Italy boss.
      In 2015, Conte was spotted emerging from the sea like Daniel Craig in his first James Bond run-out, Casino Royale.
      Now in charge of Inter Milan via Chelsea, Conte looks fighting fit at the age of 51 – and with a thicker head of hair, to boot.
      GRAEME SOUNESS
      Graeme Souness still appears to be in great shape at age 68Credit: The Mega Agency
      Souness was a fiery midfielder during his playing days at LiverpoolCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      THE Sky Sports pundit is regularly in the news – mainly for lashing out at Paul Pogba, if the Twitter warriors are to be believed.
      But aged 68, the former Liverpool star looks in remarkable shape.
      Souness has managed to keep away the gut so many develop after their playing career… and he quit nearly 30 years ago.
      ROBBIE SAVAGE
      Robbie Savage is still in good shape despite working as a pundit these daysCredit: The Mega Agency
      Robbie Savage was another fiery on-field character during his playing daysCredit: PA:Press Association
      HAVING officially retired in 2011, Savage still looks in top shape aged 46.
      But, Savage did dust off the boots earlier this season to play for Stockport Town.
      Savage is best-known these days for his broadcastings gigs for BT Sport and the BBC.
      Napoli star Matteo Politano shows off incredible leopard tattoo covering his whole back after mammoth session in chair More

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      in Soccer

      Meet the England and Scotland Wags, as the two fierce rivals go head-to-head in a crucial Euro 2020 game

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      EXPECT the rivalry to be as fierce off the pitch as it is on it.Tonight, the Auld Enemy go head-to-head in a crunch Euro 2020 game that could decide the fate of both countries in the competition.
      England’s Wags (from left to right) Charlotte Trippier, Megan Davison, Fern Hawkins, Annie Kilner and Anouska Santos will be cheering on the Three Lions against ScotlandCredit: Instagram
      Should England win, they’ll almost certainly be through to the next stage.
      However, if Scotland pull off a shock at Wembley they would get their Euros campaign back on track.
      Cheering on both sets of players will be glam Wags, including pop stars, models, social media influencers and more.
      Here’s your chance to meet the England and Scotland Wags…

      ⚽ ENGLAND vs SCOTLAND BETTING SPECIAL ⚽

      FERN HAWKINS
      Sheffield-beauty Fern, 25, has already shown her support for our boys.
      She was at Wembley for the opening game against Croatia to cheer the team on to a 1-0 win.
      Hawkins has a Bachelor’s degree in science and physiotherapy, graduating with a First Class Honours in 2017.
      She, of course, is Harry Maguire’s fiancee – and the pair have been together since 2011.
      Sheffield beauty Fern Hawkins is 25Credit: Instagram / @_fernhawkins
      Hawkins is the fiancee of England defender Harry MaguireCredit: Instagram
      ANOUSKA SANTOS
      Like Fern, her boyfriend Luke Shaw wasn’t playing against Croatia.
      But that didn’t stop Anouska from donning an England top and taking her place in the stands for our Euro 2020 opener.
      The stunning brunette, 29, has a son with the Manchester United left-back and they were first spotted together in 2017 at the Wireless Festival.
      Gorgeous Anouska Santos was spotted at England’s Euro 2020 opener cheering on the Three LionsCredit: Instagram / @anouskasantos
      Since 2017, Anouska has dated England left-back Luke ShawCredit: Instagram / @anouskasantos
      MEGAN DAVISON
      Megan appears to be the leader of the pack, already sharing her experience with the girls at Euro 2020 on social media to over 50,000 followers on Instagram.
      She is the wife of England goalie Jordan Pickford, and came to the nation’s attention during the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
      The blonde bombshell, 25, met the stopper at school when they were just 14. Today, they live a life of luxury and love to stay in expensive hotels and visit exotic locations.
      Megan Davison lives a glam Wag lifestyleCredit: Instagram / @megan_davison_
      Blonde Megan is Jordan Pickford’s wife
      CHLOE WEALLEANS-WATTS
      Gorgeous Chloe, 21, is the reported girlfriend of England playmaker Mason Mount.
      She is a pop star and sings in the girl band 303.
      The leggy beauty also, unsurprisingly, models and is signed to top agency Storm.
      Chloe Wealleans-Watts is a singer in the girl band 303Credit: Instagram / @chloewealleanswatts
      England playmaker Mason Mount and Chloe smile for the camera togetherCredit: Instagram / @chloewealleanswatts
      VICTORIA DYKES
      The wife of Scotland’s goal-threat Lyndon Dykes is Victoria who at 38 is 13 years older than her hubby.
      Bizarrely, she is the ex-wife of Dykes’ former manager Jim Thomson when the pair were at Queen of the South.
      When Victoria split with Thomson, she soon began dating the 25-year-old striker.
      Victoria Dykes is 13 years older than her husband Lyndon
      Victoria began dating Lyndon Dykes after she split with his former manager at Queen of the South
      Before Victoria settled with Lyndon she was married to Queen of the South boss Jim ThomsonCredit: Andrew Barr – The Sun Glasgow
      Now Lyndon has her name tattooed on his handCredit: Social Media – Refer to source
      ROBYN KEEN
      It was two years ago now that Keen and Scotland defender Jack Hendry confirmed their romance on social media.
      She is a model with over 20,000 followers on Instagram.
      The blonde stunner is somewhat of a fashion horse, regularly sharing photos in trendy outfits.
      Social media influencer Robyn Keen has amassed over 20,000 followers on Instagram
      Keen dates Scotland defender Jack Hendry
      GEORGIE BELL
      Bell, 26, is a painter and has been inseparable from Scottish international Ryan Christie since 2019.
      She regularly shares her work online for her 4,000 plus followers to see.
      And when she’s not putting paintbrush to canvas, Georgie loves taking in whisky tours in her hometown of Tomatin.
      Georgie Bell is 26-years-old
      Ryan Christie and Georgie Bell have been inseparable since 2019Credit: Instagram
      Bell is an artist and regularly shows off her work onlineCredit: Instagram
      SUMMER HARL
      Summer, 32, recently welcomed a baby boy with Scotland goalie Craig Gordon.

      She is an ex-Celtic TV presenter and the pair first got together in October 2017.
      They began dating in 2017, after he broke up with his wife eight years, Jennifer.
      Expect ALL these ladies to be loud in support of their beloveds when the game kicks off at 8pm.

      Summer Harl is a former Celtic TV presenter
      She dates Scotland’s Craig Gordon and the pair recently welcomed a baby boy together
      England skipper Harry Kane says his team can beat Scotland and go on to win Euro 2020 More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Brazil star Neymar’s close-knit family of mum Nadine, beloved sister Rafaella and dad Neymar Snr

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      FAMILY is everything for Neymar Jr, one of the greatest exponents of the beautiful game.The PSG forward grew up in a poor slum in southern Brazil with mum Nadine Santos, dad Neymar Santos Sr, and younger sister Rafaella.
      Neymar’s mum and dad were instrumental in his riseCredit: Reuters
      While Neymar has always shared a close bond with his sister RafaellaCredit: Instagram / @neymarjr
      And despite his epic rise in the game – from making his debut aged 17 at Santos to becoming the most expensive player in the world when he signed for the French champions – he’s never forgotten his roots.
      Here’s the story behind Neymar Jr’s family life.
      MUM – NADINE GONCALVES
      In 2016, Neymar Jr’s mum Nadine split from his dad after 25 years of marriage together.
      But that brought the superstar even closer to her, and he’s always keen to share pictures and video of them together on social media, and also has her image tattooed on his arm.
      And Nadine isn’t afraid to speak her mind when it comes to her son.
      She told Spanish newspaper ABC in 2018 she wasn’t happy with PSG’s treatment of Neymar Jr and said he should move to Real Madrid, where he will be treated “as if he were one of the team.”
      Neymar loves his mum so much he has her name tattooed on his wrist and her face inked on his bicep.
      Neymar Jr dotes on his mum, NadineCredit: Instagram / @neymarjr
      Neymar has given his approval to the relationship
      Nadine Goncalves at a gala night in Sao Paulo
      He has her name tattooed on his wristCredit: Instagram / @neymarjr
      Neymar revealed a tattoo of his mum’s face on his bicepCredit: instagram
      Nadine Santos is very protective of her sonCredit: Instagram / @neymarjr
      Nadine Santos once told a Spanish newspaper she thought her son should leave PSG for Real MadridCredit: Instagram / @neymarjr
      SISTER – RAFAELLA BECKRAN
      Neymar Jr’s best friend is his little sis, Rafaella.
      The Brazil star never misses her birthday celebrations, and seems to always be injured or suspended for his club at the end of January so he can jet off and see her.
      Unbelievably, that happened five years in a row!
      In 2015, the pair showed their love for one another in tattoos when Neymar Jr got a portrait of his sister’s FACE on his right bicep.
      She returned the favour and got a tattoo of his EYES on her right arm.
      Rafaella is Neymar’s 25-year-old sisterCredit: Instagram / @rafaella
      Neymar Jr and his sister are best friendsCredit: Instagram / @neymarjr
      Neymar Jr has his sister’s face tattooed on his bicepCredit: Instagram / @neymarjr
      Rafaella also has tattoos on her body in honour of  her famous siblingCredit: Instagram / @rafaella
      And their body art for each other doesn’t stop there.
      Neymar Jr and Rafaella have matching crowns on their left arms – his has the word ‘Sorella’, which means sister in Italian, while hers reads ‘Fratello’, meaning brother.
      Neymar Jr also has her name tattooed on his wrist.
      He once wrote about her: “My heart is yours, my love is yours, my smile is yours, my day, my night, my longing, my best company”.

      DAD – NEYMAR SANTOS SR
      Although the family were poor, the former Barcelona star was never left wanting for anything.
      His dad, a former footballer himself, always made sure his son had a ball to practice on the streets with.
      Although he was talented, he never made it out of Mogi Das Cruzes – the industrial suburb where Neymar Jr was raised and played for semi-professional teams.
      When Neymar Sr retired, he put all his efforts and focus into ensuring his son bettered his career.
      After initially hiring Wagner Ribeiro as his agent and manager, it was Neymar Jr’s dad who soon became the person responsible for shaping the footballer’s career.
      Ex-Santos coach Muricy Ramalho revealed how Neymar Sr was the driving force in his son’s life.
      “We spoke a lot with his father before he went to Barca and he takes great care of Neymar’s professional and commercial life,” he told Goal.
      Neymar Santos Sr has always been there for his son and grandsonCredit: Instagram / @neymarjr
      Before he became Neymar’s agent, his dad was a semi-pro footballerCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Insiders in the game say Neymar Santos Sr was the driving force behind his son’s careerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      With Neymar Santos Sr’s help his son became the world’s most expensive footballer when he moved to PSGCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Neymar’s dad is a celebrity in his own right in Brazil appearing on a float at Rio CarnivalCredit: Rex Features
      “He put everything into place for Neymar to become the best in the world.”
      In 2017, Neymar Sr secured the record-breaking £198million move from Camp Nou to Paris.
      Neymar is said to worship his father, a celebrity in Brazil in his own right now, and once revealed: “My father has been by my side since I was little. He takes care of things, my finances and my family.”SON –  DAVI LUCCA DA SILVA SANTOS
      Neymar became a father aged just 19.
      His ex-girlfriend Carolina Nogueira gave birth to Davi in 2011 in a Sao Paulo hospital, when she was just 17.
      They had split before Davi was born, however Neymar Jr kept a cordial relationship with the blonde beauty, and they are still on good terms today.
      Neymar Jr became a dad at 19 to son DaviCredit: Instagram / @neymarjr
      Davi’s mum is Neymar Jr’s ex-girlfriend Carolina NogueiraCredit: Instagram / @neymarjr
      Davi could follow in his dad’s footsteps and become a footballerCredit: Instagram / @neymarjr
      The Neymar family are close knit and always stick togetherCredit: Instagram / @neymarjr

      That’s allowed Neymar Jr and Carolina share custody of their son, who may follow in the footsteps of his father and become a footballer.
      When Davi was just six, he was enrolled at FCB Escola, a soccer camp run for young kids Barcelona.
      He played alongside Luis Suarez, Gerard Pique, and Lionel Messi’s kids… now how’s that for a youth super team?
      Inside Neymar’s amazing £7million mansion with helipad where he is spending coronavirus crisis with his pals on Rio outskirts More

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      in Soccer

      Sergio Ramos boasts an amazing array of tattoos, from symbolic numbers on his knuckles to the Champions League trophy

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      TATS all folks for Sergio Ramos at the Bernabeu.The Spain legend, 35, broke down in tears at a press conference as he announced a farewell to Real Madrid.
      Sergio Ramos is famous for amazing array of tattoosCredit: Instagram @sergioramos
      Spain legend Ramos boasts over 40 tattoos – but what do some of them mean?Credit: Getty
      “I would have liked to have said goodbye at the Bernabeu,” he emotionally revealed.
      “You are never really prepared for this day, it’s the most difficult of my career.”
      The news has reportedly alerted Manchester United and PSG to Ramos’ availability.
      With the next chapter in his career to begin, expect the defender to mark the occasion with a new tattoo.
      Over the years, Ramos has collected as many tattoos as he has trophies. Here’s a selection of his most prominent and what they mean.
      NUMBERS GAME
      Found on the knuckles of Ramos’ left-hand are a set of numbers that are dear to the tough-man’s heart.
      Etched on there are 35, +90, 32, 19, all with their own separate meanings.
      Etched on Ramos’ knuckles are meaningful numbers that include squad numbers and a goal scored in the 2014 Champions League finalCredit: Getty
      The rose with the date on is a nod to son Marco and when he was bornCredit: Getty
      The +90 signifies his injury-time goal in the 2014 Champions League final against Atletico Madrid.
      The rest are squad numbers he has worn through the years.
      And the rose above that features the No4. The date 14.11.2015 is a nod to the birth date of his son, Marco.
      CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WINNER
      Of course, being a four-time Champions League winner, Ramos was always going to mark the occasion.
      On his left calf to commemorate winning the trophy Real Madrid – he has a reminder inked on his leg.
      Below the card of the king are the following cities where he’s been victorious and they read: LISBON 2014, MILANO 2016, CARDIFF 2017, KIEV 2018.
      Incidentally, on the back of his right calf is the World Cup, which he won in 2010.
      On his left Ramos has a Champions League trophy inked, while above are the cities where he’s won the trophyCredit: AFP
      MUM’S THE WORD
      On the outside of his left-hand he has the name ‘Paqui’ scribbled on there.
      That’s the name of his mother, and is the ultimate dedication to the woman that raised him.
      On the other hand he has ‘Rubio’ – a surname for wife Pilar Rubio and his father’s nickname.
      ‘Paqui’ is the name of his motherCredit: AFP
      On Ramos’ other hand is ‘Rubio’ which is a dedication to his wife Pilar Rubio, pictured here
      SCRUFF OF THE NECK
      On the back of Ramos’ neck he has a tattoo of a heart being stabbed by a dagger with wings.
      Below that is the quote: “A Lion Never Loses Over The Opinion Of The Sheep”.
      It’s a reference to his playing style, as well his aggressive edge that has meant Ramos has had his critics over the years.
      Ramos’ neck tattoo symbolises his courage on the pitch as well as a note to his criticsCredit: AFP
      DREAM CATCHER
      In the middle of his back Ramos has a dream catcher with his initials in the middle of it and a crown over them.
      And there’s a quote with it too. “Only Those Who Went Hungry With Me And Stood By Me Will Eat At My Table,” it reads.
      A dream catcher is used as a talisman to protect you from bad dreams or luck.
      The dream catcher in the middle of Ramos’ back is his lucky charm – next to that it reads ‘Only Those Who Went Hungry With Me And Stood By Me Will Eat At My Table’Credit: Getty – Contributor
      TRUE RELIGION
      Ramos boasts several crucifix tattoos on his torso.
      All are symbolic of his religious faith – he is a devout Catholic and that shows with his tattoo choices.
      “I consider myself to be a believer, and I come from a Christian family, one that always had that belief,” he once said.
      “And at the end of the day, it’s about where you’re brought up and the way you take on all that’s around you, so I consider myself religious.”
      Religion is a common theme with many of Ramos’ tats
      Devout Catholic Ramos has several crucifixes on his bodyCredit: AFP
      Faith is very important to RamosCredit: AFP
      HUNGRY LIKE THE WOLF
      Many people would say their favourite animal is a dog, cat or even a bird.
      Not Sergio Ramos, though. His is the wolf – because of its fierce nature and courage.
      Behind his left ear is a Chinese symbol – and it translates as ‘Wolf’.
      The Chinese symbol next to Ramos’ ear translates to ‘Wolf’Credit: Getty
      ‘I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU’
      Incredibly, Sergio is a fan of the Lord of the Rings films/books.
      On the inner side of his left forearm he has ‘JM VII P’ tattooed. The VII which is number seven is what Ramos considers his lucky number. JM stands for Jose Marie while P is Paqui for his parents.
      There’s also a white dove thrown on there with the meaning of peace.
      But quite brilliantly, written in Elvish like in the Lord of the Rings, he has etched ‘I Will Never Forget You’.
      On the inner side of Ramos’ left forearm he has ‘JM VII P’ tattooed which symbolises his parents initials and his lucky number sevenCredit: Getty
      FAMILIAR FACE
      On his left forearm are tattoos of a woman and a young girl.
      Beside the face, is a line inked vertically which reads, ‘Amor a mi Familia’ – that translates to ‘Love to my family’.
      The faces are of his mother, Paqui and sister, Miriam.
      The faces of his mother Paqui and sister Miriam appear on his left forearmCredit: AFP
      SIBLING LOVE
      Ramos’ left bicep features the quote ‘In  The Memory Of The Ones Alive’ with the number three and XI inked next to the words.
      It’s another tattoo that symbolises family for the World Cup winner.
      His sister’s birthday is on the 3rd and his brother’s is the 11th… hopefully he remembers the months.
      Ramos’ left bicep features the quote ‘In  The Memory Of The Ones Alive’ with the number three and XI inked next to the words to represent his sister’s and brother’s birthdayCredit: Getty
      BACK AT YOU
      It’s Ramos’ back that certainly has the biggest collection of inkings.
      On the left of his lower back there’s a tattoo of a heart with a flame over it being pierced by 8 daggers, which refers to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

      The right side contains a tattoo of Jesus Christ praying while holding rosemary beads with a crucifix and stars as pendants.
      Both of those represent his religious views.
      ‘MIRIAN 4 RENE’ is his sister, his number and his brother’s name.
      Gareth Bale, Eden Hazard and Sergio Ramos are Real Madrid’s top earners
      Miriam 4 Rene stands for Ramos’ sister, his squad number and his brotherCredit: Getty More