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      in Soccer

      Dani Alves supermodel wife Joana Sanz turned down TWO proposals before their secret fancy Ibiza wedding

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      SPANISH supermodel Joana Sanz made Dani Alves work before she walked down the aisle.
      The 27-year-old, who has strutted her stuff for Jimmy Choo, Gucci and Philipp Plein, turned down TWO proposals before eventually saying ‘I do’ to the Brazilian legend.

      Joana Sanz turned down two marriage proposals from Dani Alves before they eventually got marriedCredit: Instagram @joanasanz

      Sanz (right) is a supermodel who has appeared for Jimmy Choo and GucciCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Sanz, who boasts almost 750,000 Instagram followers, lived in Paris with former PSG star husband Dani Alves, who moved back to Brazil in 2019.
      WHEN IT STARTED
      Joana and Dani, 37, started dating in 2015, after they were introduced by a mutual friend while the galloping right-back was still at Barcelona.
      Joana had been sharing a flat with the girlfriend of one of Alves’ business partners.
      After a year in Turin, where Alves won Serie A and the Coppa Italia and got to the final of the Champions League with Juventus, the pair hooked up.

      Joana, 27, has followed Alves all around the worldCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      The 27-year-old grew up in Tenerife, in the Canary IslandsCredit: Instagram @joanasanz
      WEDDING BELLS
      Dani and Joana flew to Ibiza in 2017, where they were married in secret.
      The wedding took place on the island of Formantera, but little is known about who was in attendance or what went on.
      Despite posting often to their social media channels, both Joana and Dani stayed remarkably silent for their secret ceremony.
      Few pictures have been seen.

      Joana and Dani were married in a secret wedding in Ibiza in July 2017Credit: Splash News

      Joana says the secret to her and Dani’s marriage is humourCredit: AFP – Getty
      And Alves – a six-time La Liga and three-time Champions League winner – broke a cardinal rule at a wedding… he wore white.
      We suppose it’s OK if you’re the groom, but Alves then made another fashion faux pas by matching his white three-piece with trainers.
      There was some pre-wedding drama as well.
      TURNED DOWN TWICE
      In Spanish gossip magazine La Vanguardia, Joana revealed that she actually turned down TWO Dani Alves proposals before deciding to marry him after a third.

      She revealed in 2016: “Dani asked me in the hotel room alone. We do not like [putting on a show].
      “It was splendid… he already asked me three times.”
      The glossy also revealed that Joana was wearing two of her engagement rings.
      Joana has been a frequent visitor at the Fifa Best and Ballon d’Or awards evenings, rocking up to the red carpet alongside arguably the best right-back of his generation.

      Born in September 1993, Joana shot to fame as a model at 17 after appearing in the Supermodel of the World contest for top modelling agency Ford.
      Joana and Dani are yet to have children of their own, but she has become like a second mother to his two kids, Daniel and Victoria.
      She says the secret to their relationship is laughter.
      Joana said it would be ‘impossible’ for the couple to not find each other funny.

      “There is humour for a while and I think that over the years it will be more,” she said.
      “It also unites us a lot that we think exactly the same.
      “We finish [each other’s] sentences. It’s scary.”

      PSG and Brazil star Dani Alves plays the bongos as he prepares for music career after football More

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      in Boxing

      Pulev was banned from boxing for kissing reporter, dated pop star and sparked fury with Anthony Joshua ‘tan’ comment

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      KUBRAT PULEV is just days away from his chance of springing a huge boxing shock.
      The 39-year-old will fight Anthony Joshua on December 12 in London, and the Bulgarian has already made the news for actions out of the ring.

      Pulev, with ex-girlfriend Andrea, was accused of racismCredit: Supplied

      Kubrat Pulev will be Anthony Joshua’s next opponent on December 12Credit: Getty – Contributor

      The 39-year-old will be battling the British champ for his WBA, IBF and WBO titles – in what promises to be a fascinating contest.
      But when he was asked for his thoughts on Joshua, 31, in a press conference, Pulev was accused of racism after referencing the colour of his opponent’s skin.
      “His strengths? I’d say he has a very powerful punch undeniably,” said Pulev.
      “What are his other strengths? His tan is better than mine.”

      It’s not the first time Pulev has over-stepped the mark
      In 2019, he had his boxing licence suspended when he forcibly kissed a female reporter on the lips during an interview, and that’s not all…
      ROUND 2
      Almost three years ago, Pulev and Joshua were supposed to fight each other at Cardiff’s Principality.
      However, 11 days before the scheduled bout Pulev injured his shoulder in training and had to pull out.

      Carlos Takam stepped in at short notice, and Joshua finished the tough Frenchman in ten rounds.
      Later Pulev said he could’ve made it to the ring for the £4m payday, but knew he wouldn’t have been able to give the best account of himself.
      “It wasn’t easy for me to make that decision,” Pulev said.

      Joshua and Pulev were supposed to fight each other in 2017Credit: AFP or licensors

      A shoulder injury sustained in training meant Pulev had to pull out 11 days before the Anthony Joshua fightCredit: Getty – Contributor
      ”I know, in my place, almost everyone would choose to get into the ring in Cardiff, despite everything, and collect a few million.
      “Anyone else, but not me. I can beat Joshua … but I can’t beat him if I’m injured.”
      The two were also originally meant to lock horns back in June at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, but the fight was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
      KISSGATE
      Last year, after defeating Bogdan Dinu in Costa Mesa, California, Pulev forcibly kissed female journalist Jennifer Ravalo, as well as reportedly “groped her buttocks”.
      She asked: “If Tyson Fury gets through Tom Schwarz, do you think you should have a shot?”
      He immediately replied “yes” before he put his hand on her chin and kissed her on the lips.
      The California State Athletic Commission immediately suspended Pulev, however his brother responded by sharing a video of Ravalo dancing with a member of Pulev’s entourage on that same night.
      Pulev denied any wrongdoing.
      He told BILD: “Everyone knows me as a friendly and polite person.
      “The woman came to me [at the weigh-in] and said, ‘After the fight, we party.'”

      Kissgate threatened to end Pulev’s careerCredit: Refer to Caption

      Pulev had his boxing licence suspended after a sexual harassment claimCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Pulev was supported by his pop star ex-missus AndreaCredit: https://www.instagram.com/andreabulgaria/

      Pulev soon had his boxing license reinstatedCredit: Instagram @andreabulgaria
      The heavyweight contender was slapped with a £2,000 fine, as well as the six month suspension from boxing and could only regain a license if he completed a sexual harassment awareness course.
      Four months later, Pulev had his boxing licence reinstated by the CSAC after he completed the class.
      He was warned if he pulled the same stunt again, he’d have his licence revoked again.
      POWER COUPLE
      Pulev’s long-term girlfriend was a blonde bombshell with a big voice, until they split last year.
      The fighter began dating pop star Andrea, 33, since 2006, but they broke off their romance after she accused him of cheating on her on social media.
      Andrea, real name Teodora Rumenova Andreeva, won numerous beauty pageants including Miss Sofia and Miss Tourism Bulgaria.

      Andrea is a huge pop star in BulgariaCredit: https://www.instagram.com/andreabulgaria/

      When Andrea was a teenager she won Miss Sofia and Miss Tourism Bulgaria beauty pageantsCredit: Instagram @andreabulgaria

      Andrea was one half of Bulgaria’s most famous celebrity couplesCredit: Instagram @andreabulgaria

      Bulgarian beauty Andrea has also amassed over 320,000 followers on InstagramCredit: https://www.instagram.com/andreabulgaria/

      Andrea’s real name is Teodora Rumenova Andreeva

      Andrea reportedly began dating Pulev in 2006

      Andrea stuck by her man when he was accused of sexual harassment

      Like many boxing Wags, Andrea enjoyed jumping into the ring when her partner’s fights endedCredit: Instagram @andreabulgaria
      She has won over 30 awards like “Balkan Star” on “Beogradski Pobednik” in Belgrade, “European Performer of the Year on “Kralevski Festival” in Kraljevo Serbia, “Balkan Star” on “Montefolk Awards” in Montenegro.
      And Andrea is hugely popular on social media, amassing over 350,000 followers on Instagram.
      She recently posted a series of photos of them together on social media, sparking rumours that there has been a reconciliation.
      But neither of them have officially revealed they are back together.

      ONE BLIP ON HIS RECORD
      Pulev boasts a professional fighting record of 28-1, with the only man to defeat him being someone Joshua has beat in the past.
      In 2014, Pulev fought Wladimir Klitschko at the O2 World Arena in Hamburg and met his match.
      In a one-sided duel he was knocked down three times before Klitschko put him out of his misery and knocked him down one final time with a devastating left-hook in the fifth.
      “Wladimir is a really good opponent, but he was lucky. I want a rematch,” Pulev said after the fight.
      He never got one.

      Pulev boasts a 28-1 record and hails from BulgariaCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Like Anthony Joshua Pulev has gone toe-to-toe with Wladimir Klitschko in the ringCredit: AFP – Getty

      Pulev was floored by Klitschko three times before being knocked outCredit: Getty – Contributor

      A left hook finished Pulev off in the fifth roundCredit: Getty – Contributor
      SNUBBED GERMANY
      He’s not called ‘The Pride of Bulgaria’ for nothing.
      Named after a Bulgarian medieval ruler, and born in Sofia, Pulev could never align himself with another nation.

      But over the years, he has declined several lucrative financial offers to fight for Germany.
      However, Pulev views it as a matter of principle and has said he would never change his national allegiance.
      Germany’s loss is Bulgaria’s gain, and he will be wearing their flag when he steps into the ring with Joshua next.

      Tyson Fury tells Anthony Joshua to grow a pair and step up to fight More

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      in Boxing

      Inside Anthony Joshua’s North London life, from living in a two-bed council estate to finding boxing at Finchley ABC

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      HE might’ve grown up in Watford, but as Anthony Joshua reveals in an ad for Google – it’s Golders Green that gets “much love”.
      The heavyweight champion, fighting against Bulgarian Kubrat Pulev on December 12 in his first fight on UK soil for two years, considers North London his home – after all, it’s where he discovered boxing.

      When Joshua, 31, was a teen he walked into Finchley Amateur Boxing Club, who set him on his way to world stardom.
      He also bought his mum Yeta Odusanya an ex-council home for £175,000 in the area, which he’s certainly no stranger to, visiting whenever he has a break from his action-packed schedule.
      Then there’s local businesses, his favourite restaurant, coffee shop, and launderette that can all count on Joshua’s custom over the years.
      In this case, you can’t take North London out of the boy…

      LEARNING HIS TRADE
      At 18 Anthony Joshua strolled into Finchley ABC gym in Barnet.
      He met his first trainer Sean Murphy, which changed his life forever and stopped him turning to a life of crime.
      “I was f***** before boxing,” Joshua revealed.
      “That was my reckless days when I was smoking. Boxing really helped me get on the straight and narrow.

      “It was at my first boxing club where I learned discipline. How to forget your ego and listen to instructions if you want to achieve things.

      Finchley Boxing Club was where AJ found his love for boxingCredit: Nick Obank – The Sun

      At 18, Anthony Joshua entered the gym and was met by Sean Murphy who told him to get on the bagsCredit: Nick Obank – The Sun

      Joshua seen at Finchley ABC with Floyd Mayweather SrCredit: Nick Obank – The Sun

      Boxing took Anthony Joshua away from a life of crimeCredit: Neil Hall – The Sun
      “Sean would say, ‘Shut up, get on the bags, stop talking’. He told me to stay focused.
      “These guys will always have their door open for me, no matter what. I’ll never forget who has been there when no one was.”
      After his shock loss to Andy Ruiz Jr, Joshua returned to Boxing ABC where he trained to regain focus and sharpness ahead of the rematch he would go on to win.
      ANYTHING FOR MUM
      Joshua’s mum Yeta is a huge influence on the boxer’s life, encouraging him to be modest with his £107million fortune.
      He has always put her first, ensuring she is looked after – as was evident after his 2012 Olympic heroics.
      Joshua bought her a two-bed, ex-council flat in Golders Green for £175,000, where he spent some of his teenage years.
      There were even reports he moved back in with her in 2017 after he defeated Wladimir Klitschko and added the WBA and IBO heavyweight titles to his IBF belt.

      Joshua has always had a close bond with his mum Yeta Odusanya

      After his 2012 Olympic success Joshua bought his mum a £175,000 ex-council house

      Joshua has made an astonishing £107m during his career
      However, in 2017 he reportedly bought a six bedroom home 15 minutes drive from his mum’s home.
      A CHAMPION FOR LOCAL BUSINESS
      Although he’s one of the most bankable stars in sport, as well one of the most successful, Joshua keeps it real by supporting local businesses.
      As he tells us in the ‘Dear Local’ campaign for Google that’s doing the rounds at the moment, “There’s no place like Golders Green”.
      Joshua has regularly used a North London launderette, once bringing up a £120 debt he owed to shop owner Max Bakhtari in a press conference.
      Then, there’s his favourite restaurant that serves Nigerian cuisine called Enish on the Finchley Road.
      Favourites on the menu include stewed beef and goat meat, all served with rice and veg.

      This is the launderette Joshua regularly visits in North LondonCredit: Paul Edwards – The Sun

      Joshua once joked he had to pay off a £120 tab to shop owner Max Bakhtari in a press conferenceCredit: Paul Edwards – The Sun

      Enish restaurant serves traditional Nigerian cuisine

      Joshua champions local businesses in an advert for Google

      Then there’s cafe Piacere, where Joshua is shown grabbing a smoothie from.
      “Sometimes he still comes to order and pick up food,” owner Mahdis Talaee told Times – a local newspaper for Hendon, Finchley, Barnet, Potters Bar, Edgware, and Mill Hill.
      “Usually he orders a jacket potato with tuna mayonnaise – that is his favourite food – he also sometimes gets a smoothie.”

      Anthony Joshua willing to ‘bet all my money’ he will fight Oleksandr Usyk next as he’s unsure of Tyson Fury’s plans More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea teen Faustino Anjorin idolises Frank Lampard, was named after Asprilla and is set to start in Champions League

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      FAUSTINO ANJORIN is set to make his European debut in the Champions League dead rubber against Krasnodar tonight.
      A midfield powerhouse – the 19-year-old box-to-box player grew up idolising current Blues manager Frank Lampard.

      Faustino Anjorin made his debut for Chelsea in the Carabao Cup against GrimsbyCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Anjorin can play as a classic No10 or in a deeper midfield roleCredit: Getty – Contributor

      And the attacking midfielder is so highly-rated in West London, he made his debut in the Carabao Cup tie against Grimsby Town last season.
      Frank Lampard, who has made it his mission to promote the youngsters from the academy, has faith in the raw talent, as does his assistant Jody Morris – and the pair have been impressed by Anjorin’s rapid rise since they arrived at the club.
      The youngster also has a knack for finding the back of the net, scoring crucial goals last season in the UEFA Youth League, Premier League 2 and in the EFL Trophy.
      He managed 11 goals in 27 games last season, before the coronavirus halted youth football.

      And his progress within the Blues academy has seen him compared to fellow graduate Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
      A NOD TO TINO ASPRILLA
      Anjorin was born in Poole to a Nigerian father and a English mum.
      Amazingly, he was named after the Colombian legend Faustino Asprilla who famously became the first player to score a hat trick against Barcelona in the Champions League when he was playing up front for Newcastle.

      Born in Poole, Anjorin was named after Faustino AsprillaCredit: Getty – Contributor
      By the age of seven Anjorin was scouted by Chelsea and invited to train in their youth set-up before officially joining at the age of nine.

      It was a dream come true for the boy, who idolised John Obi Mikel and Frank Lampard and wanted to play for the same club.
      DOWNED ARSENAL
      By the age of 16, Anjorin, who stands at an impressive 6ft 1 in, lifted the FA Youth Cup in 2018.
      Not only was he the youngest player in the Chelsea side that beat Arsenal 7-1 over two legs, his goal to end the rout was the icing on the cake.
      Internationally, Anjorin’s form has been equally as impressive as it has for his club, and the FA have high hopes for him.
      He has played for England at every junior level up to the Under-19’s, but without a full cap to his name there could be a tussle with Nigeria for his services in the future.

      Goalscoring is in Anjorin’s bloodCredit: Rex Features
      ATTRIBUTES
      Both-footed, Anjorin signed a five-year contract with the Blues in the summer – reportedly turning down interest from other Premier League clubs.
      Technically sound, despite his lanky frame, he is adept at running with the ball at pace and is strong in possession.
      And he’s got decent vision, often able to pick out the perfect pass for a forward to run on to.
      But it is his finishing that helps him stand out from the crowd.
      In fact, Jody Morris once revealed he was the “best finisher at the club”.
      His father Sheriff told Goal.com his son stood out from an early age – playing against boys aged six when he was just three.
      Sheriff said: “He was always the standout player, people knew him before he even knew how to spell his name.
      “He is a goalscoring midfielder in the Frank Lampard mould. Lampard was one of his idols, but so were Lionel Messi and Zinedine Zidane.
      “He has a high level of technical ability, great finishing quality and a great passing range.

      Frank Lampard and Jody Morris expect big things from AnjorinCredit: Getty – Contributor

      “We felt that the Chelsea environment was perfect for Tino. It has really stretched him.
      “The training has always been harder than the matches, he’s highly competitive and he just wants to get on the pitch and beat his opponent.”
      And he has his chance to impress, this time at the highest level of club football.

      Is Chelsea vs Grimsby on TV? Live stream, channel and kick-off time for Carabao Cup clash More

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      in Soccer

      Hulk is bodybuilder footballer who ditched his wife to be with her gorgeous niece and is available on a free transfer

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      HE really is incredible.
      Brazilian star Givanildo Vieira de Sousa, better known as Hulk because of his bodybuilder appearance and being a Lou Ferrigno lookalike, is available on a free transfer after leaving Shanghai SIPG.

      Hulk is attracting interest from the Premier League after leaving Shanghai SIPGCredit: Getty – Contributor

      The Brazilian international is now married to his ex-wife’s niece

      The Brazilian got his nickname because of his resemblance to bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno, who played The Incredible HulkCredit: Getty – Contributor

      After beginning his career in his homeland, the well-built forward has played in Japan, Portugal, Russia, and made a mint in China.
      At Shanghai SIPG he earned a whopping £16.6million-per-year, and was one of the Chinese Super League’s marquee signings in 2016.
      But now, after rejecting the opportunity to sign a new contract in China, Hulk is weighing up options and reportedly has several offers to show off his talents in England.
      At 34 he’s never looked better, and after lockdown he showed off a remarkable body transformation with a more defined look.

      And back in March, Hulk caused controversy when he ditched his wife and married her stunning niece.
      KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY
      Last year, the burly striker ended his 12-year relationship with ex-missus Iran Angelo.
      Five months later, reports linked Hulk to her beautiful niece Camila Angelo, 31.
      That relationship is now said to have started in October of 2019, and in March the former Porto striker wrote on his social media bio he was “married” again.

      Hulk divorced his wife of 12 years Iran Angelo, left, and began dating her beautiful niece Camila Angelo months later

      The pair have posted several pictures wearing what looks like wedding rings

      Angelo and Hulk have never confirmed their nuptials

      According to reports, Hulk married Angelo so she could get a visa to stay in China
      The couple have posted several pictures together since wearing what appear to be wedding rings, but never confirmed their nuptials.
      Argentine newspaper Infobae later revealed “sudden marriage was also due to” the fact Camila “needed a visa to stay in the country (China)”.

      Brazil star Hulk ‘marries his ex-wife’s stunning niece in whirlwind ceremony to get visa and stay together in China’
      THE BIG MAN
      When Hulk first emerged on the scene in Europe with Porto, his staggering size always stood out on the football pitch.
      He was renowned for being built like an ox, and it was impossible to shrug him off the ball because of his strength.
      In China, especially during the lockdown period, he seems to have become supersized.
      Fans were left agasp when he returned to training with Shanghai SIPG somehow looking even more muscular.
      Hulk shared video and pics of himself staying fit by hitting his home gym.
      And the benefits were there for all to see.

      Hulk was always renowned for his huge physiqueCredit: Getty – Contributor

      The beefy forward was a hulking presence

      Today’s Hulk is more defined
      HE’S GOT GOALS
      The misconception of Hulk is that he’s a novelty footballer, because of his gargantuan size.
      However, as they say, never judge a book by its cover.
      Capped 47 times by Brazil, he’s scored 11 international goals – playing mostly as a winger.
      His career took off in Japan’s second division with Tokyo Verdy in 2007, before he moved to Porto in 2008.
      It took him two seasons to find his feet in Portugal, and there was bother along the way.
      Following a tunnel brawl during a 1-0 league loss to fierce rivals Benfica, Hulk was suspended for four games.
      But in the 2010-11 season he began to push on. 35 goals in 53 games during Porto’s treble year, in which they also lifted the Europa League, elevated him to new heights.
      Trouble still followed him wherever he went though, in 2014 he was forced to pay £42,000 fine for assaulting two stewards.

      Hulk made his name in Europe at PortoCredit: PA:Empics Sport

      Hulk went to Russia to play with Zenit Saint Petersburg after PortoCredit: PA:Empics Sport

      In 2016 he became one of the world’s highest paid players joining Shanghai SIPGCredit: Rex Features
      PREMIER LEAGUE INTEREST
      It’s not a surprise that Hulk has been linked to a move to the Premier League, with his status as a free agent approaching soon.
      Before he moved to Zenit Saint Petersburg, he revealed Chelsea were interested in adding him to their squad.
      “In my first season at Porto, I started well and remember hearing some talk about Manchester United, but I never received anything concrete on that,” he told FourFourTwo.
      “At the time, I was too young and left those things for other people to sort out, so I didn’t get to know which offers arrived.
      “Only after I signed for Zenit was I told Chelsea had been interested, but I can’t tell you how serious they were.”
      HE’LL COST MEGA WAGES
      Although clubs will be enticed by the fact there’s no transfer fee for Hulk, he won’t come cheap.
      His salary was believed to be in the region of £320,000-per-week – making him the second highest paid player in China. The first is former Chelsea star Oscar on an astonishing £400,000-per-week.

      Hulk stands outside his private jet, which bears the striker’s signature on the outsideCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba

      Inside the aircraft there are sketches of the Brazilian scoring goals throughout his careerCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba

      At 34 Hulk still has lots to offer amid Premier League interest
      And he lives some life off the pitch, as you can imagine.
      In 2018, he was pictured on board his own private jet, which features his signature on the side.

      Inside, the cabin is decorated with his own image.
      Hulk is also a keen art collector, spending his wages on rare paintings by renowned artists.
      The runway is clear for his arrival on our shores. More

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      in Soccer

      Former Diego Maradona pal Ramon Diaz was hired by Botafogo and fired a month later after his surgery was delayed

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      RAMON DIAZ was a left footed striker who came through the youth ranks with Diego Maradona.
      Diaz was top scorer, Maradona was chosen as best player when Argentina won the first World Under-20 Cup in 1979. 

      Ramon Diaz, left, was sacked by Botafogo without taking charge of a game after a monthCredit: AFP – Getty

      Famously, Diaz fell out with Diego Maradona after the 1982 World Cup and he never played for Argentina againCredit: AFP – Getty

      Afterwards they fell out, and the international career of Diaz did not extend beyond the 1982 World Cup, but he was a consistent goal scorer in Italy and France during the 80s, before later embarking on a successful coaching career.
      He won the Copa Libertadores, South America’s Champions League, with his beloved River Plate in 1996, and has taken charge of other Argentine giants such as San Lorenzo and Independiente.
      There are two unusual moments in his coaching CV. The first is a spell as manager of Oxford United in 2004/5. The second has just happened – he was sacked by Brazilian club Botafogo before he had even started work.
      Now 61, Diaz was hired by the Rio de Janeiro club in November. Now 61, he had to undergo a surgery before he could take charge. So he sent his assistant, his son Emiliano, and his back up staff to Rio to get the ball rolling until he was free to join them.

      The original hope was that he would be given the all clear in the last week of November.
      But that was then put back to December 7 – and Botafogo decided that they were not prepared to wait.
      Under Emiliano Diaz Botafogo had played three matches, and lost them all.  He was sent on his way, and his father Ramon had lost a job that he had not even started performing.
      There are obvious reasons for the Botafogo administration to push the panic button. They are one of the famous names of the Brazilian game, supplying an extraordinary array of talent to the national team.

      Diaz’s arrival at Botafogo was delayed by surgery, and Botafogo couldn’t wait any longerCredit: AFP or licensors
      Brazil’s three World Cup winning sides between 1958 and 70 were built on a combination of players from Pele’s Santos and the Botafogo of Garrincha, Zagallo, Nilton Santos, Didi, Amarildo and Jairzinho.
      But the club’s support base is passionate but relatively small – especially compared to local giants Flamengo or even Vasco da Gama.
      Botafogo are in deep financial trouble – there have been hopes, so far unfounded, that the club might be saved by being turned into a business. 
      And, inevitably, the financial problems make their way through to the field, where in recent times Botafogo teams have tended to be limited and workmanlike rather than inspired.
      They have been relegated to the second division twice this century, and are in grave danger of going down once more. Well over half way through the season, Botafogo are second from bottom.
      Two coaches had quickly come and gone when Ramon Diaz was appointed.  Political infighting is common in Brazilian clubs, and it would seem likely that the decision to go with Diaz did not meet with universal approval.
      The slight delay in his arrival, then, became the justification for those who did want a foreign coach to push for dismissal.

      Botafogo are struggling in the league and sit second from bottomCredit: Reuters

      But there is a delicious irony in the story.  Ramon Diaz was substituted by the return of Eduardo Barroca for his second spell in charge of the club. 
      Barroca then went down with coronavirus, and will be in isolation until Thursday, by which time Ramon Diaz would already have been at work. 
      The club that could not wait is being forced to do just that.

      Watch Carlos Tevez pay emotional tribute to Diego Maradona at Boca Juniors after Copa Libertadores goal More

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      in Soccer

      Reading’s £40m rated Michael Olise, 18, was released by Chelsea but now is transfer target of top Premier League clubs

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      HE’S only 18, but already Michael Olise is playing with a maturity beyond his years.
      Since making his debut in 2019, the attacking midfielder who can play out wide has come on leaps and bounds for Reading in the Championship.

      Michael Olise is blossoming into one of the best players outside of the Premier LeagueCredit: Rex Features

      Blossoming under the tutelage of Serbian boss Veljko Paunović, his delivery has been his standout attribute as the French U18 international has come of age.
      His form has helped The Royals rise to third in the table, while a host of Premier League club scouts are monitoring Olise closely.
      Wolves were said to have failed in a bid to bring him to Molineux in the summer, and they might just regret that now.
      It’s been said, he could now fetch £30m-£40m in the transfer market, should a Premier League giant want to swoop on the promising talent.

      CITY AND CHELSEA WILL BE KICKING THEMSELVES
      Premier League clubs have had their opportunities with Olise.
      He trained with Chelsea – who currently boast a very competitive academy – until he was released.
      There was also a spell at Manchester City, but that failed to bring anything more concrete for the youngster.

      The French U18 international has attracted interest from Premier League sides including WolvesCredit: Rex Features

      A price tag of £30m-£40m has been placed on Olise’s headCredit: Rex Features

      Olise was once on the books of Chelsea and Manchester CityCredit: Instagram
      In 2016, Reading took him on – and within three years he made his debut against Leeds United.

      But it’s this season he’s grown into one of the most talked about footballers outside the top flight.
      STARRING IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP
      Over the weekend, Olise put on another swashbuckling display in Reading’s 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest.
      His superb cross for Michael Morrison’s 53rd-minute goal to make it 2-0 was his fourth assist of the season – joint second in the Championship.
      It was from his cross also in the 16th minute that led to Brice Samba flapping to allow Holmes to head the ball which led to Ryan Yates handling on the line and being sent off with Lucas Joao converting from the spot.
      Former Reading defender Matt Mills said: “For a player of that age and quality, you’ve got to say he’s worth £30m-£40m now.” 
      With the transfer window opening in January, there’s no doubt Olise will attract interest.

      With four assists this campaign, Olise has progressed nicely since his debut in 2019Credit: Rex Features

      Olise has matured this season adding quality in his delivery to his gameCredit: Rex Features

      Teenager Olise has won the praise of Reading boss Veljko Paunović this campaignCredit: Instagram
      BOSS APPRAISAL
      His manager Paunović was full of praise for the teenager’s performance against Forest.
      “Yes, he’s very talented,” he said. “In Michael we have seen a lot of progress this year. He is getting more minutes and competition and surrounded by a very good team – a group of leaders.

      “Experienced guys and younger ones are supporting him, providing him with a structure and the way we play enables him to shine in games like today.
      “But we also know with young players it’s about getting the consistency and maturity to compete on the same level in every single game.
      “That’s something that will come over time and we’ll enjoy his talent when he is at his best delivering for the team.”

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      in Soccer

      David Beckham’s MLS club Inter Miami offers transfer targets like Giroud fantastic beaches and celebrity lifestyle

      by

      IT’S been an eventful first year for David Beckham’s Inter Miami.
      Their inaugural season as an MLS club might’ve ended up going out with a whimper, missing out on the playoffs, but now plans are in place for their next campaign.

      David Beckham’s MLS franchise enjoyed their first full season this yearCredit: Alamy Live News

      Already, plans will be afoot to improve a squad that fell short this term.
      At a press conference initially announcing the club, Becks made noises during the press that he was regularly speaking to the world’s best talent to lure them to his project.
      Chelsea star Olivier Giroud has been recently linked with a move to the club, and has reportedly been offered a £4million apartment to live in. 
      While, even Lionel Messi has hinted that he wants to play his final days in the US.

      So what can any prospective transfer targets expect from a life in Miami?

      David Beckham is hoping to bring the world’s best talent to his Miami teamCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Join SunSport in lending the former Man United great a hand in making ‘The Magic City’ the go-to destination for the best footballers in the world.
      The weather
      While you may have to be wary of the odd tropical storm here and there, Miami weather is mostly perfect.
      January averages around 20 degrees Celsius, while winter highs range between 23-27 degrees Celsius.

      The wet season starts in May and ends mid-October, but the temperatures are between 27-35 degrees Celsius and it’s insanely humid.
      Good job the football season starts in May, otherwise it would be hell playing in those conditions.

      Blue skies and sunshine decorate the high skyscrapers of MiamiCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Miami Beach is the best place for a footballer to top up their tanCredit: Alamy
      The beaches
      They say life’s a beach… Miami has several from Key Biscayne to North Beach, where prime athletes can bronze themselves on a daily basis.
      There’s the 21st to 45th street beach, which runs alongside the Miami Beach boardwalk and South Pointe Park.
      Some of the world’s best hotels and restaurants are nearby, so it’s the perfect spot.

      South Pointe Park is perfect for a stroll or jog for a Beckham transfer targetCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Miami Beach is the perfect location for any footballerCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Anyone feeling active could head to Lummus Beach where volleyball courts are available to rent or there’s thatched huts to lounge under.
      Haulover Beach boasts white sands and a choppy sea, ideal for surfers. On Tuesday nights there’s a food truck festival with live music and local foods for the whole family.

      David Beckham won’t have trouble selling the white sands of Miami BeachCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The restaurants
      Miami’s cuisine is fit for a king and is influenced by the ocean with plenty of seafood on offer.
      Latin American foods are key here, so most restaurants boast many Cuban-influenced dishes – most meaty based.
      The most exclusive restaurants in town are Terrazza in the Shore Club Hotel, Zuma in the heart of downtown Miami and Jaya at the Setai Hotel.

      Eating by the pool at the Shore Club Hotel is what most sports stars do in Miami
      Jaya is a favourite of the likes of Jay Z and Bono whenever they’re in town, with menu highlights including a whole branzino for a reasonable £27.
      Terrazza’s Italian by-the pool fare will attract many footballers wanting to load up on carbs.
      While Zuma’s light Japanese meals will have weight-conscious footballers frothing at the mouth.

      Jay Z and Bono are fans of the Jaya at The Setai hotelCredit: Jaya at The Setai, http://www.thesetaihotel.com/

      Footballers will love the Asian cuisine on offer at the JayaCredit: Jaya at The Setai, http://www.thesetaihotel.com/

      Footballers could rest poolside at The Setai hotel during preseasonCredit: Jaya at The Setai, http://www.thesetaihotel.com/
      The stadium
      Central to David Beckham’s Miami franchise is a super stadium fit for the best players in the world.
      The 18,000 all-seater arena is in the Overtown neighborhood, near the Miami River, and was originally met with some controversy from the locals who didn’t think a stadium should be built on the site.
      A world-class training centre sits next door to the stadium and boasts first class facilities.

      Family and famous friends including Will Smith, Jennifer Lopez Jay Z, Usain Bolt and Neymar welcome David Beckham to Miami
      However, be sure that it will be a state-of-the-art venue, not only fit for football, but ready to house concerts featuring the world’s leading pop stars.
      Interestingly, it won’t be the biggest stadium in the country, but it’ll surely be a sellout week in/week out with Beckham involved.

      David Beckham’s Miami stadium is fit for any top footballerCredit: Splash News
      The celebrity culture
      After all, this lot can’t be wrong.
      The most famous faces in the world choose Miami as a holiday destination, pouring in on their private jets regularly during the summer.
      Some celebrities even call Miami home, so any footballer who wants to embrace celebrity culture should look no further.

      A Miami-based footballer could be mates with Anna Kournikova and Enrique IglesiasCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Anna Kournikova and Enrique Iglesias, Lenny Kravitz, Sean Combs, Matt Damon and Jennifer Lopez all have lavish homes in Miami.
      Most opt for Star Island, so expect footballers to be checking out homes in that area.
      With footballers making the crossover into movies and TV, major productions in the city are on the rise. Could the team feature in The Rock’s show ‘Ballers’ in a future episode?

      David Beckham granted MLS franchise in Miami and reveals he has already received ‘many calls from top players’ keen to play for him

      Sean Combs loves living the Miami lifestyleCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      You could bump into Jennifer Lopez living in MiamiCredit: Fame Flynet

      Matt Damon is an active celebrity in Miami circlesCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Sports culture
      Anyone moving to Miami will have to be very aware of the sports culture that runs through the city’s veins.
      Although the Miami Dolphins haven’t tasted Superbowl success since 1974, they’re steeped in NFL history thanks to legendary quarterback Dan Marino.
      The NBA team Miami Heat was the one-time home of LeBron James when they picked up consecutive championships in 2012 and 2013.

      The Miami Heat are the most successful sports franchise currently in the cityCredit: USA TODAY Sports

      David Beckham’s football team could have cheerleaders like the Miami HeatCredit: Getty – Contributor

      David Beckham’s Miami franchise will rival the Miami Dolphins for fansCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      Any single footballer may be interested in dating a Miami Dolphin cheerleaderCredit: Corbis

      The Miami Marlins are favourites of the Hispanic communityCredit: Getty – Contributor
      They’re also represented in the MLB by the Marlins, who are co-owned by NY Yankee great Derek Jeter and have won two World Championships.
      Bayside Marketplace
      For shopping and dining, incoming footballers will look no further than taking a stroll along Bayside Marketplace.
      Wrapping along the bay walls of the bank, it boasts designer shops, posh restaurants and a great vibe that encompasses all that’s great about Miami.
      Incidentally, Miami Vice often filmed episodes here, so if it’s good enough for Don Johnson…

      Bayside Marketplace offers fine dining and shoppingCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Bayside Marketplace was where Miami Vice was mostly filmedCredit: Getty – Contributor

      David Beckham tells fans his dream has come true after announcing his new MLS team in Miami
      Ocean Drive
      No doubt any big-name Beckham signing will be driving a fresh motor.
      With that in mind, they’ll definitely want to cruise down Ocean Drive with its surrounding Art Deco hotels and bars.
      The Clevelander Hotel, with its bar and massive swimming pool provide a great spot to grab a refresher in the hot heat.
      You’ll be mad not to be impressed by the architecture.

      Ocean Drive boasts some of Miami’s best hotels and barsCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Ocean Drive is a haven for Art Deco buildings and is perfect for footballers to cruise downCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Ocean Drive comes alive at nighttime with its bustling nightlifeCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Everglades
      On the list of must-do things in Miami – and Becks doesn’t even need to sell the tourist haven – is the Everglades.
      Unlike anything in the world, it’s your best chance of seeing a crocodile swimming in its natural habitat.
      Over 1.5 acres long, the wetlands begin in Orlando at the Kissimmee River and end at Lake Okeechobee.

      The Everglades is one of Miami’s most famous tourist attractionsCredit: Getty – Contributor

      You could see crocodiles on a tour of the EvergladesCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      It’s an amazing experience for any tourist and any future Beckham signing.
      So, where do we sign up? More