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      Meet the personal shopper to Chelsea’s Mount, James and Gilmour, with stars spending up to £27,000 on designer clothes

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      FORGET London’s fashionable King’s Road, these Chelsea stars prefer a much more private and exclusive shopping experience.Blues Champions League heroes Mason Mount, Reece James, Billy Gilmour and Timo Werner are all clients of personal shopper, Jack Zambakides.
      Jack Zambakides is the personal shopper to Chelsea’s stars
      Zambakides in his showroom with Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour
      The 24-year-old entrepreneur launched his business LS Personal Shopper last year, and has already attracted the country’s top footballers, who spend up to £27,000 in one visit to his Surrey showroom.
      From designer threads by Balenciaga and Off White to hard-to-get customised Nike trainers, Zambakides has become the middle man for sports stars looking to avoid busy Harvey Nichols and Selfridges.
      Remarkably, the Chelsea fan – who is living his dream – is close to bringing in £5million this year since launching LS Personal Shopper just 18-months ago.
      “I’ve always been a bit of a wheeler-dealer and clothes and trainers seemed like something I could make a bit of money from,” Zambakides told SunSport.
      “I first set up an Instagram page and then set up a website, and I remember being sat in a cafe with a friend of mine and a PayPal sale popped up and someone was sending me £270.
      “It was my first sale, and from that moment I became hooked. I grew up in Surrey, where a lot of footballers live, and I got to know a lot of them.
      “Luckily, in the last year, it has really exploded. Mason Mount, when he was at Derby, was probably the first player I sold to. He has helped me massively in journey.
      “It snowballed from there thanks to word-of-mouth.”
      Mason Mount, when he was at Derby, was probably the first player I sold to. He has helped me massively in journey.”
      Blues defender Reece James is a happy customer
      Mason Mount was LS Personal Shopper’s first client
      LS Personal Shopper operates from a secret showroom in Surrey
      Today, with footballers being instantly recognised wherever they go, many want privacy. That means shopping trips to Bond Street, Selfridges or the King’s Road have lost their appeal.
      But LS Personal Shopper provides the same service, if not arguably better, and operates from a secret Surrey location away from prying eyes.
      “A lot of the players come to see us because it’s a private shopping experience,” Zambakides revealed.
      “It’s not so easy for them to go into Selfridges and buy what they want. They just want to go in and out, but somewhere public like that they may get stopped for photos or asked to sign autographs.
      “While I’m sure they would be generous to fans, it doesn’t give them the privacy and exclusivity they want.
      “With us, we know their measurements, know what fits them well, what brands they like and style them accordingly.”
      Zambakides has built up an army of contacts for designer clothes and trainers, who he can rely on to fulfil his clients’ needs.
      He also works with brands and retailers in reselling their fashions on, as the thirst for Instagram shopping and buying online grows.
      A lot of the players come to see us because it’s a private shopping experience.”
      Trainers like these Dior B22’s are popular among footballers and cost £1,350
      Mount poses with Chelsea legend Didier Drogba wearing an outfit sourced by LS Personal Shopper
      The most a footballer has ever spent with me in one go was around £27,000,”
      However, where LS Personal Shopper differs is that it bridges that gap thanks to an office space that allows clients to see the clothing and footwear in person.
      Adding that personal touch has allowed Zambakides to make a tidy profit.
      “The most a footballer has ever spent with me in one go was around £27,000,” Zambakides said.
      “It was Christmas, and the presents were for all the family. We wrapped everything up and dropped it round for them.
      “It’s not unusual for a footballer to spend £10,000 with us, when you consider a hoodie or a pair of trainers could be a £1,000 – it can add up pretty quick.”
      Brands including Off White, Palm Angels, Balenciaga and Nike Air Jordan – which have enjoyed a renaissance since the release of Netflix’s The Last Dance documentary – are proving to be most popular with Premier League stars.
      “There’s a rare shoe, the Jordan 1 Retro High Travis Scott that we sell that the players really love,” Zambakides said.
      “There’s a customiser in the US who gets the original shoe, which is already worth about £1,500, and he puts real snakeskin on top.
      These customised Jordan 1 Retro High Travis Scott sell for around £3,000 and are sought-after by today’s footballers
      Blues stars like Gilmour enjoy the privacy of shopping at LS Personal Shopper
      “That brings the value up to about £3,000, and we’ve sold a few of them recently.
      “Players have contacted me when someone has walked into the dressing room and asked me if they got them from us. They are very sought-after.”
      Amusingly, off-the-pitch, footballers are also keen to know who’s been buying what.
      “They are always interested in finding out what other footballers have been buying,” Zambakides laughed.
      “Where they are friends, we can sort of play them off against each other. If we know they’re going on holiday together, we might say, ‘Mate, you wouldn’t believe what he’s bought. He’s going to look 10 out of 10 in that outfit.’
      “We did the same at Christmas time, saying things like, ‘He’s bought you the best gift, you’re going to have to get him something really nice'”
      For Zambakides, as a lifelong Blues fan, selling clothes to his favourite players is a dream come true.
      He also sees similar character traits with football stars as he does in himself through his journey.
      He said: “I’m a Chelsea fan, I’ve had season tickets since I was five or six, so at first it was quite surreal.

      West Ham star Declan Rice is another client for LS Personal Shopper
      Rice shows his appreciation with a signed shirt to the LS Personal Shopper team

      “But you soon realise that they’re just normal, young guys, and I think we share similar traits.
      “I’m driven on this business journey of mine and have worked hard. They’ve also had to be dedicated to reach the top and have put in the extra graft as well.”
      Should Chelsea’s stars win the Champions League on Saturday, expect some of them to splash their win bonuses on designer wear from LS Personal Shopper.
      To see LS Personal Shopper extensive collection, visit their website here.
      Alternatively, you can follow them on Instagram.
      Chelsea’s Billy Gilmour discovers he’s in Scotland’s Euro 2020 squad More

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      Brazil ask Xavi to become manager after 2022 World Cup but Barcelona legend rejects shock offer

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      IF the Brazil FA had it their way, then Barcelona legend Xavi would be next manager of the national team.Reports claimed that the Brazil FA made an offer to the former midfield maestro, who is the manager of Qatar Stars League club Al Sadd.
      Xavi was the shock choice by the Brazil FA to be their national managerCredit: Reuters
      He was to join the national team coaching staff now, with a view to taking over as head coach after the next World Cup. However, he turned down the offer.
      It is understandable if he thought that it was far too soon in his coaching career to be thinking of such a high pressure job in a country that he barely knows.
      The move, though, does illustrate an interesting change of views by the Brazilians.
      Some 18 months before the 2014 World Cup Mano Menezes was sacked as Brazil coach.
      Pep Guardiola was taking a year off at the time, living in New York. He made it public that only one job could make him interrupt his sabbatical – the chance to coach Brazil.
      Back then, the Brazil FA moved quickly to stop his campaign building momentum.
      They hired Luiz Felipe Scolari, who had won the World Cup back in 2002 – but cannot look back on the 2014 campaign with any pleasure.
      While a Guardiola disciple decides to stay where he is, another ambitious one – Sylvinho – is on the move.
      Xavi’s former boss Pep Guardiola was once offered the Brazil job during his sabbatical in New YorkCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Sylvinho worked as an assistant coach at Barcelona with Lionel MessiCredit: Reuters
      One of the most important goals in Guardiola’s coaching career came against Chelsea just over 12 years ago.
      It was the second leg of the semi final of the 2008-9 Champions League.  Guardiola was in his first season in charge of Barcelona, who seemed on their way out of the competition until, right at the end, Andres Iniesta fired home from the edge of the area.
      On the touchline Guardiola erupted. In the midst of the celebrations, reserve left back Sylvinho went over to him.
      Barcelona still had some substitutions to make, and Sylvinho made the point that they could eat up some of the few remaining seconds by using them.
      While Guardiola was reacting like a fan, the former Arsenal defender was already thinking like a coach.
      It was clear that Sylvinho was going to go into coaching when his playing days were done.
      He was assistant with Corinthians, and filled the same role with the Brazil national team – and then in 2019 came the call from Lyon.
      Sylvinho became the first Brazilian in a while to take charge of a team in the group phases of the Champions League, but it did not last. Results were disappointing and he was soon on his way.
      Sylvinho managed Lyon in France for a short timeCredit: AFP
      Now he has another coaching job. On Sunday he was announced as the boss of Corinthians – Sao Paulo giants who have had a hard time paying for their new stadium, built for the 2014 World Cup, and are trailing well behind local rivals Palmeiras and Sao Paulo.
      He played for the club in the 90s, and was assistant 15 years later. But in the club’s time of need he was not the first choice for the job, or even the second choice.

      Other coaches were daunted by the size of the challenge. Sylvinho could hardly refuse.
      At the age of 47, time is still on his side, but not for long. He needs to impress, to dismiss talk that he lacks charisma, that he is a better number two than a number one.
      And there is no time for bedding in, no honeymoon period. The Brazilian league, one of the most competitive in the world, kicks off at the weekend.
      Xavi’s Al Sadd score classy team goal Barcelona would be proud of with brilliant team move More

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      Sir Alex Ferguson transfer flops: Seven worst buys Man Utd icon made including hopeless keeper and his last ever signing

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON is widely considered to be the greatest Premier League manager of all time.The Scot absolutely dominated the division with Manchester United, winning 13 of the first 21 editions of the re-branded league before retiring in 2013.
      Not all of Ferguson’s buys were as successful as others…Credit: PA:Press Association
      Legends Alan Shearer and Ian Wright unanimously agreed on a MOTD Top Ten podcast that Ferguson was easily the league’s greatest ever boss – and it’s easy to see why.
      A master motivator, a psychological genius, Fergie was a supreme decision maker in the Old Trafford hot-seat.
      From Bruce and Pallister to Ronaldo and Rooney – Ferguson was adept at making perfect acquisitions all over the pitch.
      But not all of them came off…
      We take a look at some of those rough diamonds that could never quite be polished.
      Bebe sadly failed to make the grade at Old Trafford
      BEBE
      Bebe’s whirlwind rise from a shelter in one of Lisbon’s poorest areas to £7.4million Manchester United signing was inspiring… his Old Trafford career was a disaster.
      In just 18 months the 20-year-old had gone from playing amateur football for local club Loures to being a multi-million pound signing for the champions of England.
      After a year starring in the third-tier of Portuguese football, Bebe earned a move to top-flight club Vitoria Guimaraes in the summer of 2010.
      Following good performances in pre-season, however, he found himself packing his bags once again just five weeks after arriving – because the Red Devils had matched his release clause.
      He clearly wasn’t ready for the step up, and suffered the humiliation of being substituted as a replacement himself against Wolves in November 2010.
      This quickly lead to Bebe becoming a joke figure at Old Trafford, although he did manage cup goals against Bursaspor and Wolves.
      He was swiftly farmed out on various loan spells before leaving United in 2014, signing for Portuguese giants Benfica but finding their first-team equally hard to crack.
      After a spell at Eibar, the 29-year-old currently resides in the Spanish second tier with Rayo Vallecano – for whom he has scored three goals for this season.
      Kleberson struggled to adapt to the rigours of the Premier LeagueCredit: Reuters
      KLEBERSON
      Brazilian Kleberson arrived at Manchester United amid much fanfare in 2003, having starred in his country’s World Cup win the year before – even playing all 90 minutes of the final.
      The Red Devils beat off competition from the likes of Barcelona, Leeds United and Celtic for his signature – but his time at Old Trafford was an unfortunate failure.
      A lack of fellow Portuguese speakers led to the £6.5m signing growing isolated, swiftly losing the confidence to produce the flair that he had so often illustrated for Atletico Paranaense and Brazil.
      He departed Old Trafford for £2.5m after just two years and 30 appearances, later telling the MEN: “When the team isn’t doing well, it’s hard to change your style, I couldn’t do it, when I came to Man United I tried to change the player I was, more passes, more aggression, more tackles, but it’s too hard and wasn’t what my game was about.
      “From 17 to 24 years old, I was playing that fluent Brazilian style, to move the ball quickly and receive it in space.
      “At Man United I had tough moments a lot of the time, I got a lot of injuries and struggled a lot.”
      Now 40, Kleberson coaches the academy at American side Philadelphia Union.
      Massimo Taibi could never replace the legendary Schmeichel
      MASSIMO TAIBI
      In 1999, Ferguson had a problem.
      In the afterglow of achieving the pinnacle of his career, a historic treble sealed on that famous night in Barcelona, Peter Schmeichel left Old Trafford for Sporting Lisbon.
      The Dane had been a pillar of United’s success and his gloves were always going to be tough to fill.
      Unfortunately, Taibi didn’t even come close.
      It is easily forgotten that he earned man of the match in the first of his four United appearances following his £4.5m switch from Venezia.
      This is because of his horrendous mistake against Southampton, with which he would become synonymous.
      A pee-roller of a Matt Le Tissier effort was trundling harmlessly towards the Italian, before skipping off a divot and farcically bouncing over his hapless frame.
      After also featuring in a 5-0 loss to Chelsea, Taibi was shunted back to Serie A initially on loan less that six months after arriving – and was not seen on these shores again after a £2.5m departure in 2000.
      Now aged 50, Taibi is a director at Reggina.
      Zaha signed for Ferguson… but arrived under Moyes
      WILFRIED ZAHA
      On January 26 2013, Sir Alex Ferguson made his final signing as Manchester United manager.
      A 20-year-old Wilfried Zaha had been tearing up the Championship, illustrating the kind of tricky wing-play that Sir Alex absolutely loved.
      The Ivorian signed for United for £15m before returning to Palace on loan for the remainder of the season.
      He subsequently succeeded in getting his boyhood club promoted, but there was just one problem when he got back to Old Trafford.
      Ferguson was gone.
      Zaha was never fancied by Fergie’s successor David Moyes, only making four appearances before being ditched and eventually allowed to re-join Palace for just £6m in 2014.
      He has since grown and improved as a player, and the Ivory Coast international has a number of top clubs chasing his services again after some impressive displays for the Eagles.
      Many ‘f***ing idiots’ believed that Veron floppedCredit: PA:Press Association
      JUAN SEBASTIAN VERON
      In 2001, United smashed the English transfer record to sign Juan Sebastian Veron from Lazio.
      The £36m deal rocked the Premier League and much was expected of the Argentine.
      There were initially good moments, he won the division’s Player of the Month award in September of that year – showing flashes of brilliance, particularly in the Champions League.
      Fitness struggles followed, however, with Veron failing to cope with the relentless pace of English football.

      Criticism of his performances began to grow, but Ferguson defended his man, once ranting at the end of a press conference: “He [Veron] is a f***ing great player and you’re all f***ing idiots.”
      But the consensus was that United’s expensive gamble hadn’t come off, and they took an enormous £21m hit on him when he was allowed to move to Chelsea in 2003.
      Former team-mate Rio Ferdinand recently opened up on what may have cost Veron in his time at Old Trafford, telling the Mail: “He was an unbelievable player, great passer.
      “The only thing I think that killed him was Roy Keane was probably a bit more of a dominant personality and was picking the ball up in his positions.”
      Nick Powell’s United career didn’t turn out as hoped…
      NICK POWELL
      At just 18 years of age, Powell had become one of English football’s hottest young properties when he capped off a remarkable season with Crewe Alexandra by scoring an absolute beauty in the League Two play-off final.
      Manchester United, for so long the best place for top English talents to be nurtured and helped to flourish, agreed a deal worth up to £6m to bring him to the Theatre of Dreams.
      The creative midfielder had Old Trafford jaws on the floor when he scored another blockbuster strike on his United debut, belting one in from 20 yards against Wigan Athletic.
      But things quickly began to fizzle out for Powell at United, particularly after Ferguson’s departure in 2013.
      After a number of injuries and loans, the once hotly-tipped talent’s United appearances swiftly became sporadic… and notorious.
      He played 57 minutes of the Red Devils’ humiliating 4-0 defeat by MK Dons under Louis van Gaal – and gained mocking status when brought on for Juan Mata against Wolfsburg with United chasing a crucial Champions League goal.
      Van Gaal’s side lost that match, crashing out of Europe, and Powell found himself moving to Wigan on a free transfer in 2016.
      After playing well in League One and the Championship for the Latics, the now-27-year-old finds himself at Stoke City in the second-tier.
      Djemba-Djemba enjoyed a nomadic career after leaving Old Trafford
      ERIC DJEMBA-DJEMBA
      Cameroonian Djemba-Djemba arrived to little fanfare from first club Nantes in 2003, with Ferguson splashing £3.5m on a man that he saw as a potential successor to Roy Keane.
      While he was certainly willing to put his 5ft 11in frame about in the same manner as the Irishman, Djemba-Djemba lacked the ability to control games like his skipper did.
      He used to share a post-training Nando’s with team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo, but the pair’s careers were about to go on very different trajectories.
      After 39 Red Devils appearances, Djemba-Djemba moved to Aston Villa for £1.5m, embarking on a nomadic career that would take him everywhere from Chennai to St Mirren.
      Djemba-Djemba recently told SunSport about playing the Swiss fifth-tierCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Now 38, he turns out for Swiss fifth-tier side FC Vallorbe-Ballaigues, recently telling SunSport: “I understand the game. I don’t have to run a lot and I just have to manage my stamina.
      “But I don’t think I’m any different to my teammates.
      “I just love playing and when I finish training, I’m happy to carry the balls or the water bottles.”
      Nicky Butt in line for Wayne Rooney reunion at Derby after quitting Manchester United coaching role More

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      Sergio Aguero’s stunning partners, from marrying Maradona’s daughter to now dating 24-year-old model Sofia Calzetti

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      SERGIO AGUERO is set to leave the Premier League as one of the world’s most eligible bachelors.The Argentinian striker, 32, is on the verge of signing for Barcelona after a netting two goals for Manchester City in the 5-0 rout of Everton on the final day of the season.
      Sergio Aguero’s was pictured with heavily inked Zoe Cristofoli
      Not only will his departure from the Etihad break fans’ hearts, there’s a few exes that may also be devastated he’s going.
      The forward, who broke Wayne Rooney’s scoring record with his double taking him to 184 Premier League goals, has been pictured with a bevy of beautiful ladies over the years.
      Here are some of the most notable, including his current squeeze, model Sofia Calzetti.
      GIANINA MARADONA
      AGUERO married into footballing royalty when he got together with late Argentina legend Diego Maradona’s youngest daughter in 2008, after being introduced by the icon himself.
      They had baby boy Benjamin together in February 2009 when Aguero was still leading the front line for Atletico Madrid.
      Aguero has a child, Benjamin, with his first wife GianninaCredit: Getty – Contributor
      But things turned sour and they split in 2012, with some reports in their native Argentina claiming the pair argued over Giannina’s alleged ‘party lifestyle’.
      The Hand of God legend’s daughter – who regularly posts photos of her shapely bum online – confirmed their break-up on Twitter, saying they had ‘separated’ after a ‘difficult year with a lot of changes’.
      And it seemed like her followers took her side, with one writing: “Aguero doesn’t deserve you. He’s stupid and an idiot.”
      But Giannina defended her ex, replying: “Don’t say that, he’s the father of my son and he’s nothing like what you say he is.
      Giannina’s controversial belfie got a lot of attention onlineCredit: Golders/@giamaradona
      Maradona’s daughter was married to Aguero for four yearsCredit: Golders/@giamaradona
      “When a couple finish it’s both their faults.”
      But Maradona – who passed away after heart failure in November aged 60 – saw it differently, to say the least.
      Speaking of his former son-in-law, he called him a ‘wimp who I don’t even want to name’.
      And he blacked out a photo of Aguero holding Benjamin in a snap from inside his Dubai home with lawyer Matias Morla in February 2019.
      KARINA TEJEDA
      THE striker moved on from Giannina pretty quickly by hooking up with popular Argentinian singer Karina – known as the Little Princess – just months after his marriage ended.
      But his past could not escape him, with his new flame and Giannina having a Twitter spat.
      Aguero had to act as peacemaker when it was claimed son Benjamin had been insulted by Karina’s daughter, Sol, from a previous relationship.
      Aguero was with the Argentinian singer for four yearsCredit: Instagram @kariprinceoficial
      Aguero got with Karina after his marriage endedCredit: Instagram @kariprinceoficial
      The superstar couple suffered an acrimonious splitCredit: AP:Associated Press
      The singer is known as the Little Princess in her homeland
      Karina raged: “If you’ve got something to say about my daughter ring me and tell me.
      “I can put up with you trying to make me look back but don’t take it out on my daughter.”
      SunSport told you they split up after almost five years together just a month before Aguero’s car crash in Amsterdam, in which he broke two ribs.
      ZOE CRISTOFOLI
      IF you’re pulling up to a swanky Los Angeles nightclub in a £140,000 4×4, then you should not do so without an entourage.
      Aguero certainly didn’t when he rocked up to the Warwick with heavily tattooed Instagram model Zoe and pals back in 2018.
      Zoe Cristofoli and her amazing tattoos caught Aguero’s eye
      The Italian Instagram model partied the night away with AgueroCredit: Refer to Caption
      She did not appear to get serious with the striker

      She had previously dated Italian Big Brother contestant Andrea Ceroli and media personality Fabrizio Corona.
      It is unknown if she and Aguero ever attempted to get serious.
      But it appears doubtful given that she reportedly jetted back to Verona in her native Italy after the night out.
      TAYLOR WARD
      Back in March 2019, Aguero was said to have charmed stunning reality TV star Taylor Ward.
      Taylor appeared on Real Housewives of Cheshire, and is famously the daughter of former Premier League star Ashley Ward.
      She was also the ex-girlfriend of Katie Price’s former lover, Kris Boyson.
      But their relationship fizzled out, and Aguero soon moved on.
      Incredibly, Taylor is now dating Aguero’s TEAM-MATE Riyad Mahrez and went Instagram official with her Algerian beau last October.
      Aguero had a brief liason with Taylor WardCredit: Refer to Caption
      She is the daughter of former footballer Ashley Ward
      Taylor Ward is now dating Aguero’s Etihad team-mate Riyad Mahrez
      SOFIA CALZETTI
      Aguero’s most recent love is 24-year-old model Sofia Calzetti.
      It was his first confirmed girlfriend since Tejeda, and they went Instagram official with a series of cute pictures on social media in 2019.
      Aguero whisked her to Miami at the tail-end of last summer, driving the gorgeous blonde in a blue McLaren Spider worth £166,000.

      They were even spied snogging in the Bahamas as their love affair continued.
      And she helped Aguero enjoy a Peaky Blinders-themed 31st birthday party, and they both shared snaps on social media.
      The picture-perfect couple enjoyed a tourist trip up The Shard while Aguero was rehabbing after the nasty knee injury he suffered in July.
      For Aguero, it seems that she’s a keeper… but will he take to Barcelona?
      Aguero’s latest girlfriend is Sofia CalzettiCredit: Instagram
      Calzetti jetted to the Bahamas with Aguero in summer 2019Credit: Instagram
      Calzetti, 24, is a model
      Guardiola gets emotional as he pays tribute to Sergio Aguero after ‘fairytale’ win More

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      Watch Anthony Elanga net bullet header for Man Utd as wonderkid, who idolises Thierry Henry, gets first goal

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      ANTHONY ELANGA scored his first senior goal for Manchester United with a bullet header against Wolves on the final day of the Premier League season.The Swedish winger, 19, opened his account after just 13 minutes at Molineux with a brilliant headed effort that any target man would be proud of.
      Welcome to the Premier League goalscorer’s club Anthony Elanga 🙌The 19-year-old’s first Man Utd goal is a beauty!Bullet header 💥 pic.twitter.com/Pl79PmZrvA— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 23, 2021

      Anthony Elanga scored his first senior Man Utd goal against WolvesCredit: Paul Marriott – The Sun
      The Swedish winger scored a bullet header any target man would be proud ofCredit: Getty
      Elanga only made his Prem debut against Leicester City earlier this month as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer turned to the academy because of United’s fixture pile-up.
      The teenage Swede, 19, started on the left wing against the Foxes but was thrust into a more central forward role against Wolves.
      And Elanga paid back Solskjaer’s faith by scoring a great header as United rested senior stars including Bruno Fernandes ahead of Wednesday’s Europa League final against Villarreal.
      The youth star impressed for the Under-23s this season before his senior call-up.
      But Elanga’s lack of experience meant he did not even have a Wikipedia page before his breakthrough against Leicester.
      Elanga made his senior debut against LeicesterCredit: AP
      Elanga has 11 goals in 20 games for the Under-23s this seasonCredit: Getty
      Yet there was no doubt he would get one soon after, however, with his 11 goals in 20 U23 games and show of faith from Solskjaer proving he has a bright future – even after he missed a month of this season because of a fractured collarbone.
      Along with Amad Diallo, who also started against Wolves, Elanga is the latest talent off the United conveyor belt.
      His dad Joseph Elanga was a professional footballer, who earned 17 caps for Cameroon and was called up to the 1998 World Cup squad.
      Last season, Anthony was handed the prestigious Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award, which has previously been won by first-team Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood.
      In March, Elanga was rewarded for his rapid progress with a new long-term deal at Old Trafford.
      Anthony Elanga is the latest promising talent coming through the Man Utd ranksCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      19-year-old forward and Swedish youth star Elanga won the prestigious Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award last seasonCredit: Sportsfile
      Elanga flew to Granada for the Europa League quarter-final tie, although he did not playCredit: Getty
      KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY
      Anthony’s father Joseph could say he taught him everything he knew.
      But the elder Elanga, now 41, wasn’t a forward like his son. He was a defender, who made a career for himself in Europe – in countries including Greece, Sweden and Denmark, before retiring in 2012.
      His best years were with Malmo from 2000-2005, who he won the Swedish championship with in 2004. He would join the club for one season again in 2010 and win a second league title.
      Joseph was a member of the Cameroon 1998 World Cup squad, but didn’t play a game.
      During his career, however, he did manage to gain 17 caps for his country.
      Joseph Elanga played in Europe for clubs including Malmo and Brondby (pictured here)Credit: Getty
      Elanga Sr played 17 times for Cameroon and was picked for their 1998 World Cup squadCredit: Alamy
      A THREAT UPFRONT
      United’s youth sides are blessed with promising forwards, with the likes of Shola Shoretire, Charlie McNeill and Dillon Hoogewerf all showing they have a bright future in the game.
      Like them, Elanga has the ability to play out wide or though the middle as a No9.
      Predominantly right-footed, he uses his pace and skill to beat his man, often cutting in before unleashing a shot on goal.
      His solo runs are reminiscent of a young Ryan Giggs, who could take three or four players out of a game in one swashbuckling gallop.
      Elanga has been with the Red Devils since the U12s, joining the academy from Sunday League side Hattersley FC.
      In 2019-20, after a prolific season with the U18 side with who he scored seven times in nine games, he was the recipient of the Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award
      In March Elanga signed a long-term deal with the Red DevilsCredit: Getty
      Elanga has an eye for goal and was previously named Utd academy player of the yearCredit: Getty
      Predominantly right-footed, Elanga likes to drift to the left and cut in towards goalCredit: Getty

      HOPEFUL FOR THE FUTURE
      Elanga – who scored two goals in five matches for Sweden’s U17s – had excited Solskjaer in training before his first-team debut.
      “He’s got an X factor, some attributes, it’s not like a gift, but he’s got the acceleration, pace, speed, that’s a given for wingers and he’s got qualities I like,” the Norwegian explained.
      “He’s a goalscoring winger, he’s confident, he likes to beat men, right foot, left foot, he’s got a great attitude.”

      Humble Elanga understands he has to work hard to achieve regular first team footballCredit: Instagram anthonyelanga
      Elanga can see a pathway to the United first team after seeing the likes of Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood flourish under Ole Gunnar SolskjaeerCredit: Getty
      Elanga is equally as positive for his future, and knows what he has to do to impress his boss.
      Back in November he told PA, “You look at the likes of Mason and Rashy, there is a pathway there.
      “It just shows you that if you’re willing to put the work into it and continue to work hard day in, day out in training there’s a pathway for you there.”

      HEROES IN THE GAME
      In an interview with The Athletic last year, Elanga revealed who he models his game on.
      “Thierry Henry was my idol and I tried to match my game with his,” he said.
      “He was quick. He could play anywhere across the front three – striker, left wing, right wing – and that’s how I want to replicate my game.”

      Solskjaer says Elanga has an X-Factor about him and a promising futureCredit: Getty
      Elanga idolises Thierry Henry and tries to copy his hero’s gameCredit: Getty

      Manchester United legend Gary Neville caught a glimpse of Elanga in full flight, when he co-commentated on United Under-21s 6-0 win over Salford City in the EFL Trophy last year.
      He said the youngster was a “nightmare to play against” and called his goal “Thierry Henry-esque.”
      If he’s half the player Henry was, United have got themselves a real talent.
      Solskjaer says Man Utd striker Marcus Rashford in doubt for Granada match More

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      Inside Robert Lewandowski’s amazing £7million apartment in native Poland complete with a golf simulator

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      ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI knows where his roots are.Despite being based in Germany since 2010, the Bayern Munich striker was happy to splash £7million on a deluxe pad in his home city of Warsaw back in 2016.
      Robert Lewandowski owns a stunning apartment in Warsaw that cost £7mCredit: CEN/ Zlota44
      Lewandowski’s apartment comes equipped with a golf simulatorCredit: CEN/ Zlota44
      The deluxe pad comes with access to a state-of-the-art sports and recreation centreCredit: CEN/ Zlota44
      A HEFTY PRICE
      Standard flats in the Zlota 44 tower block range between £242,000 to £1.9m, with the more pricey apartments costing up to £7m.
      Polish-American architect Daniel Libeskind designed the 192-metre tall block and ensured the property was fully stocked with all Lewandowski will need.
      There’s a state-of-the-art sports and recreation centre, a private cinema, golf simulator and wine tasting room, according to Luxurious Magazine.
      Lewandowski, who rakes in about £275,000-per-week, said: “Choosing my new apartment was based on practical considerations.”
      The living room is spacious and comfortable
      The flat boasts incredible views of the city of Warsaw
      The bedroom boasts floor to ceiling windows
      Standard flats in the Zlota 44 tower block range between £242,000 to £1.9m, with the more pricey apartments costing up to £7m
      A grand piano sits in a reception room
      WORLD CLASS FACILITIES
      He continued: “The tower provides some of the best residences in Poland, whilst the sports and recreation centre allows me to complete my training program in the highest quality surroundings.
      “It is important in my profession to always have world-class training facilities on-hand and now I’m just a short elevator ride from a full-size swimming pool, fully-equipped gym, luxury spa area, as well as treatment and massage rooms.
      “This was essential for me as it allows me at any given moment to complete my training program in the best surroundings.”
      Lewandowski, 32, has been in blistering form again this season for the Bavarians – scoring 40 times in the Bundesliga alone this season.
      And he equalled Gerd Muller’s long-standing goalscoring record of goals in a season.
      Lewandowski bought the apartment back in 2016
      Lewandowski is originally from Warsaw
      The home boasts modern decor throughout
      Robert Lewandowski takes a cheeky picture of and wife Anna as they work out togetherCredit: CEN / Robert Lewandowki
      Robert Lewandowski signs new Bayern Munich contract until 2023 More

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      10 brilliant players who won the Premier League title but missed out on a winners’ medal, including Gary Neville TWICE

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      MANCHESTER CITY are this year’s Premier League champions with their biggest stars getting a medal around their necks.Jurgen Klopp’s all-conquering Liverpool team were given 40 medals to distribute between their players and staff last season.
      Jordan Henderson lifts the Premier League trophy
      The Reds’ Premier League winning manager Jurgen Klopp gets his medalCredit: EPA
      Under current rules, 23 players are guaranteed medals if they have made five appearances in the league or more – the qualifying threshold for acquiring one.
      But not everyone will make the cut and will just have to go without – just like these past title winners below.
      GARY NEVILLE
      The legendary Manchester United right back has eight Premier League winners’ medals with the club, which is nothing to sneeze at.
      But the Sky Sports pundit could have had 10 in seasons 17 years apart.
      Neville made his debut during the 1993-94 season, but only managed one appearance at a time when you needed 10 league appearances to qualify – a rule that changed in 2012 to five.
      Then, in the 2009-10 season when United were crowned champions, Neville was stuck on four before he retired midway through the campaign.
      Gary Neville has missed out on two Premier League winners’ medalsCredit: Getty – Contributor

      MO SALAH
      The Egyptian forward picked up a medal last season as his goals helped propel Liverpool to glory.
      But having left title-chasing Chelsea halfway through the 2014-15 season for a loan move to Fiorentina, he missed out on another with the Blues.
      Salah had just three appearances to his name, and was ineligible to receive a medal, when he was swapped for Juan Cuadrado.
      Ironically, Cuadrado – a Chelsea flop – DID get one after appearing fourteen times for the club.
      Mo Salah could have had more than one Premier League medalsCredit: Instagram @mosalah
      OWEN HARGREAVES
      Given the former Bayern Munich midfielder’s injury problems, it’s no surprise that Hargreaves missed out on medals at Manchester United.
      The BT Sport pundit also had the misfortune of missing out on a Premier League winners’ medal at Manchester City too.
      He did get one for his star-turn during the 2007-08 season for the Red Devils, but the seasons he missed out were in 2009 and 2011.
      And he only played once for City when they stormed to the title in 2012.
      Owen Hargreaves missed on a Premier League winners’ medal with Manchester United twice, and Manchester CityCredit: Getty – Contributor
      DAVID BATTY
      The former England international and Leeds legend was part of the Blackburn Rovers side that shocked the world to win the Premier League in 1995.
      Although he was an integral squad member, an injury kept him on the sidelines and he played just five times – again, when he needed 10.
      Rovers did offer Batty a winners’ medal, however he declined because he felt he didn’t contribute enough during the season.
      He never won a Premier League winners’ medal after that, finishing runners-up with Newcastle in 1996 and 1997.
      David Batty refused a medal with Blackburn feeling he didn’t contribute enough after getting injuredCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      FEDERICO MACHEDA
      Macheda can, perhaps, count himself a little unlucky not to have one.
      Especially given what he did for Manchester United, when they seemed dead and buried against Aston Villa.
      His winning goal in the dying moments to secure a miraculous comeback and a 3-2 win helped United stay on track to win the Premier League in 2009.
      He played four times that season, scoring twice, but was unfortunate to miss out.
      Macheda would miss out again in 2010-11.
      Despite his heroics, Federico Macheda didn’t get a medal for keeping Man Utd in the title raceCredit: Getty – Contributor
      SCOTT PARKER
      The Fulham manager didn’t quite fit in at the Blues after he was signed by Jose Mourinho from Charlton in 2004.
      And he didn’t get enough appearances under his belt in Chelsea’s 2004-05 title-winning season – managing just four games.
      Parker left West London the following summer, playing for Newcastle, West Ham, Tottenham and Fulham along the way.
      He never got a sniff of a title ever again.
      Scott Parker found himself out of favour under Jose MourinhoCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      NEMANJA MATIC
      It’s fair to say defensive midfielder Matic made up for his early disappointment by winning Premier League winners’ medals in 2015 and 2017 for Chelsea.
      But in his first year with the West London giants, Carlo Ancelotti only gave him two run outs as they stormed to the Double in 2009-10.
      He left Chelsea in 2011 for Benfica, winning the Portuguese league in 2013.
      Matic returned to the Premier League with Man Utd that same year with unfinished business.
      Nemanja Matic missed out on a title medal when Chelsea won the Double in 2010Credit: Getty – Contributor
      WES BROWN
      The United defender won five Premier League titles under Sir Alex Ferguson.
      However, he was limited to just eight appearances in 2008-09 because of injury.
      It meant Brown missed out adding a fifth medal to his collection.
      Two years later, history repeated itself when he missed out on another medal.
      In 2009 Wes Brown missed out on his fifth winners’ medalCredit: PA:Press Association
      MICAH RICHARDS
      In 2012, Richards could do no wrong – helping Man City to their first ever Premier League title.
      The defender was even shortlisted for the club’s Player of the Year award that season – losing in the end to Sergio Aguero.
      But his contribution in 2013-14 was minimal.
      Injury and bad form saw him slip down the pecking order at the club.
      Just two league appearances meant he missed out on a medal, and he was soon loaned out to Fiorentina before he was released in 2015.
      Micah Richards missed out when Manchester City won their first Premier League titleCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      ANDREJ KRAMARIC
      Leicester City made Kramaric their record signing in 2015, splashing £9million on the Croatian striker.
      But, as it turned out, they didn’t really need him.
      A certain Jamie Vardy rose to prominence and kept Kramaric out of the Leicester side, as they miraculously won the Premier League in the 2015-16 season.
      He was loaned out in the January transfer window in 2016 to Hoffenheim, having only appeared twice before then.
      It meant no winners’ medal for Kramaric.
      Leicester City record signing Andrej Kramaric played second fiddle to Jamie VardyCredit: PA:Press Association
      Jose Mourinho says his coaching methods second to nobody in the world More

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      Footballers’ amazing body transformations from Ronaldo building mass muscle to Hazard shedding excess weight

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      FOOTBALLERS today will do anything to get an edge over their opponents.And that means more work in the gym, sculpting their perfect bodies and lifting heavy weights to gain extra muscle.
      Cristiano Ronaldo is sculpted like an AdonisCredit: AFP or licensors
      But these stars didn’t always look like body builders.
      In fact, these athletes have enjoyed a remarkable body transformation over the years, even when they can’t train like they’re used to during the coronavirus lockdown.
      EDEN HAZARD
      When former Chelsea star Hazard moved to Real Madrid in a deal worth £130million, Los Blancos were delighted.
      But they wouldn’t have been happy when he turned up to training seven kilograms overweight.
      Even fans pointed out he looked chunky when he reported for preseason games.
      However, during the coronavirus lockdown Hazard took his fitness very seriously.
      “It’s complicated for me. I’m trying not to eat a lot,” he told RTBF.
      “I’m trying not to go into the pantry to eat a lot of buns, but it’s not easy.”
      It appears he laid off the buns –  impressing manager Zinedine Zidane at the club’s training centre with a more svelte figure.
      When Eden Hazard arrived at Real Madrid he was seven kilograms overweightCredit: Twitter @realmadrid
      Hazard impressed Zidane by laying off the buns during the coronavirus lockdownCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      CRISTIANO RONALDO
      As a youngster, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner was often called too skinny by his coaches.
      But through the years, Ronaldo went from lanky winger to powerhouse forward thanks to a strict exercise regime.
      “I put it in my mind that my body can improve,” Ronaldo said.
      “With dedication and hard work in the gym I improved a lot on that – at the end of the day it’s down to the person’s mindset.”
      A Pilates-based routine that focuses on resistance work to strengthen his core is also key to his success – reportedly giving the Portuguese star the body of a 23-year-old.
      Ronaldo used to be called too skinny when he was an up and coming youngsterCredit: AFP
      Thanks to a strict diet and rigorous exercise regime Ronaldo has transformed his bodyCredit: Getty – Contributor
      MARCUS RASHFORD
      When Rashford emerged on the scene in 2017 as a fresh-faced 19-year-old, his body was still developing.
      But having Cristiano Ronaldo as a role model at the club when he was a youngster was a big help.
      The striker watched Ronaldo in training closely, adding strength and conditioning work to the technical training he does at Carrington, which has given him a more muscular physique today.
      When Marcus Rashford first emerged on the scene in 2017 he was skin and boneCredit: Reuters
      Today, with added strength and conditioning training Rashford has bulked upCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI
      The Bayern Munich striker has been sensational for the Bavarian giants, and it’s all down to his nutritionist wife Anna.
      Through his diet, as well as rigorous training regime with the Bundesliga side, he is now the perfect specimen.
      “We changed our diet step by step, first cutting out sweets and then milk,” Lewandowski explained.
      “Cows’ milk and soya milk isn’t good for me. Almond milk and rice milk is OK. I don’t really drink alcohol, either. Maybe wine but only sometimes.”
      When he started his career at Lech Poznan Lewandowski was skinnyCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Lewandowski now flashes killer abs thanks to a diet enforced by his nutritionist wife AnnaCredit: Instagram @_rl9
      ADAMA TRAORE
      A devastating blend of pace and power, Traore’s game has come on leaps and bounds.
      And social media blew up when snaps of the Wolves winger emerged showing off a raging bicep that would’ve put any Hollywood action hero to shame.
      But despite his rippling muscles, Traore insists he doesn’t do any weight training.
      “My training? I don’t do weights,” he told Spanish outlet La Sexta.
      “It’s hard to believe, but I don’t do weights.
      “It’s genetic. I exercise, but I gain mass very quickly.”
      Spanish winger Adama Traore was a slight winger playing for Spain’s U16 teamCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Today, blossoming at Wolves, Traore is henchCredit: Getty – Contributor
      ADEBAYO AKINFENWA
      You don’t get the nickname ‘The Beast” for nothing, as well as a 98 strength rating in FIFA 20.
      Football’s strongest man Akinfenwa ruffles defenders feathers playing for Wycombe Wanderers in League One.
      To fuel his weights sessions, the striker eats like a beast too, although his weight does go up and down.
      “Breakfast is Weetabix with honey,” he told the Daily Mail.
      “At training there will be some kind of chicken. Our chef personally does chicken for me and that makes me very happy.
      “Then a shake in the afternoon. For dinner, again it’s probably chicken, potato and coleslaw. My partner is half-Nigerian, half-Caribbean so it may be the curry goat, rice and potato. It’s the carbs I need to eat.
      “I throw in the odd Nando’s. Quarter-chicken, medium breast, chips, corn on the cob and five wings. I don’t deviate.”
      Adebayo Akinfenwa had a smaller frame during his time at NorthamptonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Akinfenwa is now nicknamed The Beast because of his enormous size
      HULK
      The aptly named Brazilian striker has always been admired for his physical stature.
      Built like a truck, Hulk is still terrorising defenders back in Brazil for  Atlético Mineiro.
      But there was a time when the former Porto star looked a little overweight, rather than chiselled.
      He has toned up now, and looks fitter than his 34-years suggest.
      At Porto Hulk was a little rounder and squarerCredit: AFP – Getty
      Now plying his trade back in Brazil, Hulk is leaner, more muscular and fit as a fiddle
      SERGIO RAMOS
      The Real Madrid defender’s Instagram account is littered with videos of high-intensity workout videos.
      When he was at Sevilla, he was just a beanpole of a defender. Now, he’s the real deal.
      “My training routines at home are usually focused on functional and isometric exercises, always ending with some cardio work,” he revealed.
      And for Sergio, a healthy breakfast is the perfect to start the day.
      He revealed: “I usually take a coffee, some whole-grain bread with protein like turkey breast or a poached egg, and a piece of fruit.”
      When he began his career at Sevilla, Ramos was a beanpole of a defenderCredit: EPA
      Ramos is now one of the most chiselled footballers around
      GEORGE ELOKOBI
      There’s no doubt about it, Elokobi is hench.
      The former Wolves star, now playing for National League side Maidstone United, was always a crowd favourite because of his size.
      At only 5ft 9inches, he isn’t the tallest. But he earned the nickname of ‘The Body’ at Molineux because he was pure muscle.
      The defender even stripped down to his smalls on the catwalk during a charity fashion show at the club.
      Former Wolves star George Elokobi was nicknamed ‘The Body’
      Elokobi even stripped down to his smalls to show off his six-pack for a charity fashion showCredit: Matthew Ashton
      MARIO BALOTELLI
      The fiery former Manchester City striker was always tall and lean.
      But after celebrating scoring for Italy against Germany in Euro 2012, he was keen to show off a ripped torso as he flexed his muscles shirtless.
      However, the normally fit Balotelli was anything but in 2018 when he returned to training for Nice reportedly two stone overweight when a move to Marseille collapsed.
      He soon dropped half a stone and was back to normal.
      When Mauro Balotelli first emerged on the scene he was leanerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      At Euro 2012 Balotelli flexes his muscles after scoring against GermanyCredit: Corbis – Getty

      ALEXIS SANCHEZ
      The Inter Milan striker takes his training very seriously.
      Former Manchester United star Sanchez enjoys working out alone, and shared a video online strutting his stuff at their Carrington training ground to the famous Rocky theme ‘Eye of the Tiger’ in 2019.
      Sanchez has also been seen in the past enjoying sprint drills on the beach. After all, even though it is pre-season you can’t down tools in the summer.
      Standing at 5ft 6in, the former Gunner knows he needs strength as an attribute for his game to thrive. And he looks the business.
      Alexis Sanchez has worked hard on building his muscle massCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Sanchez is happy to share his extra workouts on InstagramCredit: Instagram @alexis_officia1
      Wolves star Adama Traore sported a shirt on Wednesday without the club’s sponsor on the front More