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      Five midfield engines Man Utd could swoop for if Carlos Baleba transfer fails including Morten Hjulmand

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      I haven’t cut my hair for 313 days and it’s Man Utd’s fault… it’s a nightmare but I’m planning perfect ending

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      ‘Different from anything I’ve ever seen’ – Why Chelsea’s dazzling new Brazilian star Estevao Willian is the real deal

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      Matheus Cunha will be perfect for Man Utd and Bruno Fernandes – but only if Ruben Amorim makes crucial signing

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      IT is safe to say that Manchester United failed to live up to their supporters’ expectations last season.They finished in 15th place on just 42 points, lost the Europa League final to Tottenham to leave them trophy-less and without European football next term.Matheus Cunha could be the perfect addition to Man UtdCredit: GettyBut could depend on his relationship with Bruno FernandesCredit: ReutersRuben Amorim will also need another attacker to complete the jigsawCredit: Shutterstock EditorialUnited have backed new boss Ruben Amorim despite the historically bad results and that backing appears to have extended to the transfer market.Brazil star Matheus Cunha is already confirmed in a £62.5million arrival from Wolves.Meanwhile, club captain Bruno Fernandes has opted to stay at Old Trafford despite a mega £700,000-a-WEEK offer to join Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal.How Cunha will be used by Man Utd still remains to be seen.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe has played as a striker at points for Wolves but he is not the type to make regular runs in behind, preferring to drop deeper in order to link play.He is arguably more effective in behind a main striker, which could create a clash of styles with Fernandes.Below, we break down the tactical fit of Cunha at Man Utd under Amorim.BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKIntelligent penalty area movement Towards the end of the season, Wolves typically played the same tactical shape as Man Utd did under Amorim.Most read in FootballTheir 3-4-2-1 shape saw Cunha used either as a No9 or as one of the two attacking midfielders behind the main striker.Bruno Fernandes reveals role his wife played in £200m Al-Hilal transfer snub even though Man Utd were ready to cash inIn these positions, Cunha’s intelligence and movement in the final third and around the penalty area helped Wolves create a lo.He easily finds little pockets of space to drop into and attack around the opposition defence.The Brazilian is also difficult to deal with because often opposing defenders be concentrating on defending the space between the ball and the goal.Cunha takes advantage of this with sharp movements to outwit defenders and create shooting opportunities.Here we see Cunha positioned outside of the box before he then takes a clever touch and bends the ball into the goalWe believe Cunha would be able to play in a similar kind of role to Fernandes.This would mean that Man Utd would still need to add a new forward to play ahead of him, assuming they decide Rasmus Hojlund is not the long-term solution.This could be an issue solved in the near future with the signing of Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford. The type of runs Mbeumo makes would be perfect to stretch the game and offer passing options or decoys for Cunha.Indeed, the Mbeumo’s movement is like Mohamed Salah’s at Liverpool and could benefit both Cunha and Fernandes.With Fernandes being more comfortable as a passer and creator from deeper areas, we should see Cunha acting as the link between the Portugal star and the main forward.Here Cunha is smart enough to check his run behind the back-pedalling defence before he gets the ball and is able to finishGiven Fernandes is well known as one of the most aggressive and creative passers in the league he will enjoy having a player like Cunha alongside him to find space in tight areas. While Cunha is not an out-and-out striker, his movement and intelligence of positioning around the area will create chances.Not just a finisherCunha finished with 15 league goals last season.But he has long been seen as more of a creative attacker than a true goalscorer, such as when he was at Hertha Berlin or Atletico Madrid.Cunha has always been great at spotting through balls.He is happy to drift the width of the penalty area in order to find pockets of space.Here Cunha has the ball in the left channel, drives at goal and then has the quality to slip the ball to a team-mate making a run beyond himIt will be interesting to see how Cunha interacts with Fernandes on the pitch.They could be hampered by the fact United don’t have many forwards looking to run beyond the ball. The issue United may have is they will essentially have two advanced midfielders without a proper striker.Here Cunha has the ball wide and has the quality to pick out the deep run from his team-mateIt is all very well for Amorim to add creativity – but he needs to also have players who take advantage of that vision.Decision making and intelligenceCunha is an hugely intelligent footballer.This is what makes him such a versatile attacker – so it would be wasteful to play him as the main striker.He is far better when allowed to play deeper behind a physical and aggressive No9.Cunha’s intelligent movement off the back of the opposition midfield gives a team-mate a passing options before another striker pins an opposition defenderEssentially, Man Utd should be looking to use a striker who can go in behind.This should force the opposition defensive line deeper and then we would see Cunha and Bruno with more space.The fact the Brazilian regularly picks the right option at the right time will help United unlock opponents.Here he drops off the highest line to come back in and occupy a pocket of space between defendersConclusionSigning a player like Cunha off the back of a terrible season will be a real boost for the Red Devils.It is vital Cunha is surrounded by more signings in key areas to make the most of his attacking and creative abilities.Read More on The SunGiven Man Utd are already looking to add Mbeumo to their ranks, it would suggest an awareness they need to add more attacking options. It will still be a long summer ahead for United’s recruitment team. 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      Enzo Maresca’s tweaks highlight why TWO first-team stars must be replaced to turn Chelsea into title contenders

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      CHELSEA have suddenly refound their form, just at the perfect time of the season.Enzo Maresca’s Blues are on a run of five wins in a row in all competitions, and fly to Newcastle on Sunday for a key clash in the fight for Champions League places.Enzo Maresca is enjoying life again, on the back of five straight winsChelsea star Cole Palmer refound his goal touch against LiverpoolIt’s been a disappointing season for Chelsea to this point, with their early title charge falling to pieces at the start of 2025.Maresca’s rigid tactics came under fire from Blues fans who have grown used to winning trophies under Roman Abramovich. Some have even started calling for another change in manager this summer, just 12 months after former Tottenham coach Mauricio Pochettino was ruthlessly shown the door.But in recent weeks the form has returned, not least from talisman Cole Palmer who ended his 18-game goal drought with a penalty against champions Liverpool last weekend.read more on footballMaresca’s tactical changes – partly due to the timely return to fitness of midfielder Romeo Lavia – have been key to Chelsea’s upturn in form.But Chelsea’s improvement has also shone a light on their weaknesses.In particular, there are two stars of the side – who start every game when fit – who are holding the team back.Chelsea must look to buy two new players in the summer to be considered genuine title contenders next season.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford BridgeMoises Caicedo as an inverting fullbackOne of the most interesting tactical tweaks from Marcesca was in using the Ecuador midfielder Moises Caicedo as a right-back in their back four system. While Caicedo plays as a more traditional fullback when Chelsea are defending he then comes inside into the midfield more consistently when they win back possession. This means that, along with Lavia who is back in the team after long spells out with injury, Chelsea have two strong players at the base of their midfield with Enzo Fernandez then being free to push higher.What we are seeing now from Chelsea is a box midfield with Lavia and Caicedo at the base and Fernandez and Palmer in higher positions. Caicedo’s intelligence and game understanding are key for Chelsea in allowing this to happen. When coming inside Caicedo is difficult to pick up and regularly he is able to receive the ball in space before then being able to pass the ball forward.Caicedo has inverted inside and as such Chelsea have overloaded the pitch centrally. This allows them to progress the ball and move the ball forward through the middleCaicedo’s touch map shows him at right back and in midfieldCaicedo was a nominal right back but played further up the pitch than Lavia and Fernandez on average v LiverpoolMaresca has done a great job so far in terms of teaching Caicedo the timing and the triggers to move from the right-back position into the midfield. The Ecuadorian international has always been a player who is good against the ball and in duels.But his ability to come inside and affect the game has been one of the keys so far for Chelsea as they have improved.Palmer and Fernandez as high 8’sAs part of the decision from Maresca to start moving Caicedo inside and into a more structured midfield role has meant a change to the role of Fernandez. While early in his career at Chelsea we saw Fernandez used as more of a deep midfielder as a deep 8 or even as a 6, the World Cup winner has been unlocked since he has been moved more consistently into higher positions.Palmer has also seen his role change across the season having initially been used for the most part as a narrow right-winger.Now he is now being positioned more naturally as a central attacking midfielder – almost as a No10. With Fernandez being pushed higher when Chelsea are in possession we are now seeing the two midfielders positioned almost on the same line as advanced or attacking 8’sCaicedo moves centrally which allows Fernandez to pull out wider, and Palmer drops deeper to pick up the ball. Chelsea are making it very difficult for the opposition to pick up their men and defend properlyFernandez and Palmer were key men against LiverpoolIn creating a structure with two deep midfielders and two advanced midfielders Chelsea are creating situations where they can overload the majority of opposition midfielders. For the most part opposition teams will play with either two or three players in the central midfield positions. As such Chelsea are able to control the game when they are in possession.Maintaining width in the attackThe width as Chelsea attack at the moment under Maresca is very much being provided by two wingers positioned high and wide in the front three. This means the roles of the two fullbacks for Chelsea are slightly different – Caicedo on the right coming into the midfield while Cucurella on the left sits deep on the same line as the central defenders. The movements of these fullbacks allows Chelsea to form a solid structure in the middle as they look to control the game and build their attacks.It is ahead of them that we see the wide attackers stretch the pitch out with their positioning. They want to stay on the outside of the Chelsea structure, either hard on the line, or in the channels, to stretch out the pitch. This positioning of the wide attackers allows the movement of Palmer and Fernandez high as they have room to move into as Chelsea attack.Chelsea’s wingers stay wide for most of the gameChelsea win possession back early against Liverpool. Noni Madueke and Pedro Neto are positioned on the outside of the attack and Palmer and Fernandez are able to push higherBoth Noni Madueke and Pedro Neto are able to play wide and to dominate in 1v1 situations against opposition fullbacks. This forces the opposition to defend wide with their fullbacks and this, in turn, allows the attacking midfielders for Chelsea to move into more advanced positions in order to support the attack.Maresca needs a better forward optionHowever there is still much more than needs to be addressed.Firstly Maresca can improve this current Chelsea team with a better striker. While Nicolas Jackson is still only 23 and he has suffered from injuries this season, we believe that with a stronger profile playing as the No9 we could see Chelsea become a much more dominant attacking side.Jackson has the profile to be the advanced forward type that will look to routinely run in behind the defensive line.But at the moment he lacks the consistency of the quality of his attacking moments.Jackson wants to make the run beyond the last line of the Liverpool defence. The problem is that he is not at the level required to take advantage of the more direct pass that Chelsea will look to make from their defensive lineNicolas Jackson divides Chelsea fansAnd his technical flaws means that when Chelsea do look to go longer to release his runs often the ball can bounce away from him.This suggests Chelsea will be active in the striker market with a number of interesting profiles of players that could fit their needs and allow them to be more effective in the attacking phase.More ball progression from the defenceAlso for this new-look Chelsea system to be most effective they need to make sure that they are able to move the ball quickly through the thirds of the field. The issue that they have at the moment is that their central defenders and their left back in Cucurella typically form a back three when they are in possession and their ball progression and forward passing can be slightly slow.The key for Maresca is to find a way to ensure that the ball is moved quickly from the first line, the defensive line, into the midfield and into the areas of the pitch where Chelsea have the most control and dominance over the opposition. One of the biggest issues that we see in this regard for Chelsea is that Cucurella is too safe in his possession as he routinely turns down the option to progress the ball.Cucurella has become a key man, but is he also a weak link?Cucurella receives the ball across the defensive line and if he opens out and then plays forward then the ball will be in a more dangerous position. Instead he passes back across the defensive lineCucurella’s pass map in the 3-1 win over LiverpoolWhile we believe that Chelsea will look to recruit a new striker we also expect them to look to recruit a player in the left-back role who can play as a left-sided central defender in possession and who is more aggressive in moving the ball forward. Typically the wide central defenders in a back three will be more progressive passers anyway but too often we see Marc Cucurella slow down the attack for Chelsea.ConclusionOver the last two seasons the clubs has been focussed on player recruitment with the new ownership group spending more than £1billion to sign an army of young players to long term contracts. Read More on The SunThis season has been another rollercoaster ride for Chelsea and their fans but they are positioned, with the season drawing to a close, to qualify for Champions League. Maresca has shown enough to suggest that he will still be in charge at Chelsea next season and it will be interesting to see the tactical tweaks that he will make to take this team to the next level. Chelsea ratings vs Djurgarden as Dewsbury-Hall makes most of rare start but Sancho should have done betterCHELSEA coasted their way into the Conference League final thanks to Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s first-half finish.Enzo Maresca’s men had done the difficult work last week with a thumping first-leg win.But Dewsbury-Hall gave the home fans something to cheer about with a smart finish.Tyrique George fed the midfielder, who cut inside Djurgarden defender Miro Tenho before slotting home.From there, Chelsea were going through the motions – and no wonder given how poor their Swedish visitors were.Here’s how SunSport’s Jack Rosser rated the Chelsea stars… More

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      Which striker should Man Utd buy? We reveal who would be best fit for Amorim and why it’s great news for Ratcliffe

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have struggled to find any real form in the Premier League despite stronger performances in the Europa League.One of the most notable issues Ruben Amorim’s side have experienced is a major lack of goals, with none of the strikers in the squad really impressing.Ruben Amorim will be looking for a new striker in the summerCredit: EPAAfter considering six main options we have found the perfect option for Man UtdCredit: GettyLast summer United signed Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna, though it has since become clear his profile is not what the Red Devils need up front. That has left Rasmus Hojlund as the only true recognised striker in the squad. However, while Hojlund still has the potential to develop into a very strong striker, he has been woefully out of form.Next summer Man Utd transfer chiefs will doubtless be looking to recruit a top forward.The issue they will find is that there is a real scarcity of top talent in that department which fit the unique needs of Amorim’s 3-4-3 system.Other top clubs, including Arsenal who we analysed last week, are also in the market which will only drive up price, but we have looked at who could be the top fit for Man Utd for next season.Victor Osimhen – Galatasaray and NigeriaVictor Osimhen is itching for a transferCredit: GettyThe first player on our list is also probably the most expensive; 26-year-old Galatasaray and Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen.The on-loan Napoli ace has an estimated transfer value of £59million, having been touted as a top target for Premier League sides for some time.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordAfter being one of the main reasons Napoli won their first Serie A title since the era of Diego Maradona, he fell out of favour with the club’s owner before he was sent on loan to Turkey.Osimhen will be seeking employment away from Napoli when he returns at the end of his loan spell, with links both to England and Saudi Arabia being widely reported.I told Rio Ferdinand to tell Sir Alex Ferguson to f*** off and the Man Utd legend’s reaction was pricelessGalatasaray are by no means a small club, but they do not play in a top five European league and are in no position to challenge for top European honours.In terms of the profile of striker United will be looking for this summer, it is fair to say that Osimhen is a very strong fit. He prefers to play on the shoulder of the last defender and attack space behind the defensive line but has the technical profile to receive the ball and play with his back to goal when required.Amorim’s system needs the striker to generate a significant amount of goals and shots.Here we see Osimhen makes contact with the central defender and then pulls away to make a pocket of space to attack the crossOsimhen’s 166 goal contributions across 253 games at club level speak for themselves in this regard.There is no doubt Osimhen would be a strong option thanks to his superb movement in and around the penalty area and the ability to create opportunities for himself.Viktor Gyokeres – Sporting Lisbon and SwedenVictor Gyokeres is one of Europe’s top strikersCredit: GettyIt should come as no surprise that Sweden and Sporting Lisbon ace Viktor Gyokeres had been included on this list. After all, he was one of the stand out players at Sporting when Amorim was there as coach, with 50 goal contributions in 41 games for Sporting this season after his 58-goal contribution tally last term.The 26-year-old, who has a market value of £63m has had something of an unusual career path to get to this point, having flopped at Brighton before really igniting his career at Coventry.His performances in the Championship were very strong and this led to a move to Portugal for an initial £17.5m.Gyokeres now looks poised to take the next step in his career and it is easy to see why. He is a modern striker with the ability to stretch opposition defences and make long and aggressive runs beyond the defensive line, while he has the skill to score a variety of different goals.The issue for Gyokeres when it comes to a move to a club like Man Utd, however, is facing a low or medium block a lot of the time – a factor which has massively limited Hojlund’s effectiveness this term.This means space behind the defence, where Gyokeres does his best work, is hard to come by for any striker.Here we see Gyokeres on the shoulder with space to attack ahead of himWhile Gyokeres is by no means a poor technical player, with the ability to receive the ball in tighter areas and bring others into the game, this is not the biggest strength of his game. He is more of a powerful forward who will thrive with balls played into the channels he can run on to in order to stretch the opposition.Hugo Ekitike – Eintracht Frankfurt and FranceHugo Ekitike looks set to be the next big money striker to be sold by FrankfurtCredit: AFPFans of English football were given quite the introduction to the France Under-21 star Hugo Ekitike when he scored three goals in a 5-3 win over England.The 22-year-old developed at Stade Reims in Ligue 1 before transferring to Paris Saint-Germain in 2022, although it did not work out before he moved again to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Bundesliga.Ekitike has scored 19 goals in 38 matches in all competitions so far this season and is valued at just over £33m, drawing intense interest from other top clubs in Europe.Ironically, had Ekitike stayed at PSG until Kylian Mbappe left to join Real Madrid it is likely he would now be the starting striker in Paris. He is perhaps the closest striker in top level football at the moment to Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, with a similar all round playing style and the most well rounded on this list.Ekitike is equally comfortable playing with his back to goal when he is running into space or running through the channels to stretch the game.Here Ekitike shows very clever movement with curved runs to pull off the shoulders of defenders and gain the separation he needs to finishFor a team like Man Utd who are still building towards their identity under Amorim, the signing of a striker that is well balanced like Ekitike would make a lot of sense. It can be easy with strikers of this type to overlook how effective and efficient they are in front of goal but as we touched upon above, Ekitike has show he can perform very well in a top five league.Liam Delap – Ipswich Town and EnglandLiam Delap has had a solid season despite his team’s looming threat of relegationCredit: GettyWhile Ekitike was scoring for France this week, Liam Delap was returning the favour with a goal for England Under-21s.When Ipswich Town signed the now 22-year-old from Manchester City in the summer there were some who doubted his ability to lead the line for a newly promoted Premier League side.With 10 goals and two assists in 28 league matches, a strong return for a team facing relegation, he has very much proven those doubters wrong.The Ipswich ace is another potential target who fits represents a modern profile of player. He is tall and powerful and extremely adept when it comes to making runs to stretch the game and attack behind the opposition line. There is an argument United would be better placed signing a more-well rounded player who can link the game and play in deeper areas or make aggressive runs behind the defensive line. Here we see how Delap times his run well to get across the defender to finishWith that said, however there is some value in the idea of United signing a young English striker that can develop as the team does.An added complication is Delap is a product of the Man City youth academy, and his boyhood club are thought to have a clause to say they can buy him back at a set price. Benjamin Sesko – RB Leipzig and SlovakiaBenjamin Sesko was the talk of the town at the European Championships last summerCredit: GettyPlaying for one of the smaller sides during the European Championships for Slovakia last summer, Benjamin Sesko was the name on everyone’s lips as he impressed with his power and pace.He was heavily linked at the time, and in January, with a move to Arsenal but made the choice to at least see out the season in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig, where he has scored 17 goals in 36 games.That does not mean he will not be open to a move this coming summer, with an estimated transfer value of £42m.Sesko, like previous names mentioned, is tall, powerful, quick and at his best when he is given space to run into and to attack as his team moves the attack forward.His biggest strength, however, comes in his incredible ball striking with the ability to strike the ball with power from distance.Sesko is another player who thrives when he is able to play and attack in moments of transition. Here we see how part of Sesko’s threat is his ball-striking abilityAs a top level striker he still needs to add some real consistency to his game in front of goal.There is a worry he is too one dimensional in needing space in the final third to really fit the way United will play.Bryan Mbeumo – Brentford and CameroonBryan Mbeumo has been Brentford’s main man after they lost Ivan ToneyCredit: GettyThe final attacker on our shortlist is 25-year-old Brentford and Cameroon forward Bryan Mbeumo, who is valued at £42m.He has had a very strong season with 20 goals and assists in all competitions after stepping up to fill the void of Ivan Toney’s sale. His performances have been so strong this season that he is now being linked to a move this coming summer to a top 6 level club that will be involved in European competition.Mbeumo is not a tall and powerful striker who will threaten space behind the defensive line like other names on the list, with a preference to pull into the channels and get on the ball in the final third.There is a real argument with Mbeumo that he would fit better in the United system under Amorim as one of the two attacking midfielders behind the main striker. His mobility and movement in these areas are excellent and he is extremely difficult for opposition defenders to pick up and mark. Mbeumo is exceptionally dangerous off the right flank, rather than in the middleMbeumo would not be at his best as the main striker for United. He is more movement based in the way he creates threat and space in the final third while United need to find a striker who has a better rounded and more versatile attacking profile.ConclusionIt is tempting to say Osimhen would be the best option of the six strikers we have discussed above since he is the most ready-made option. However, Man Utd are in the midst of a financial nightmare after years of overspending with a big rebuild to come this summer for a squad well below the standards needed to challenge for top honours.Therefore, given his relative price at almost half the value of Osimhen or Gyokreres, Ekitike should be the target of choice next summer. His profile is well rounded and he has more to come in his development as this United team develops, while a likely cheaper deal would be music to the ears of Sir Jim Ratcliffe after numerous cuts made to the club.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charity More

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      Footballers who have posed in underwear ads, as Kyle Walker signs a mega deal with Boss to model pants

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      WITH their chiselled torsos, muscular thighs, and mega-fame – it’s only natural that footballers are the go-to when it comes to fashion giants seeking underwear models.AC Milan loanee Kyle Walker, 34, is the latest star of the beautiful game to sign a mega deal to pose in his pants.Cristiano Ronalso is one of many footballers who have posed in their underwearKyle Walker is the latest footballer to sign a deal with BossCredit: instagramHe will feature in ads next month for Boss in a lucrative deal said to be worth six figures.The England defender joins a host of footballers who have shown off their kecks in fancy photoshoots.Here are SunSport’s favourites…Cristiano RonaldoThe former Man Utd legend is seeing out his career in Saudi Arabia after turning 40 in December.Read more football newsBut, when he does finally hang up his boots, he has his empire and fashion label to fall back on.Incredibly, his clothing line CR7 is worth over £60million, and it sells everything from shoes to jeans to underwear.Ronaldo regularly takes part in photoshoots to show off some of the collection, including underwear.Previously, the Portuguese icon posed for Armani in a money-spinning shoot. Most read in FootballTrent Alexander-ArnoldIn 2022, Trent showed off a ripped physique as he modelled for Calvin Klein ahead of the World Cup.He paraded a skimpy pair of briefs, as well as white and black boxer shorts.Awkward Alexander-Arnold billboard showing Liverpool star posing with ex is erected in MilanIn a brief clip posted to social media, the chiselled footballer was also seen staring into the camera and saying the slogan “Calvins or Nothing”.It opened the door for TAA to become the face of Guess Jeans last summer.England star Alexander-Arnold shows off ripped physique as he models Calvin Klein underpants ahead of World Cup 2022Credit: Calvin Klein via Twitter / @CalvinKleinThe ad paved the way for Trent to work with Guess JeansDavid BeckhamThe king of underwear ads in the football world is, without doubt, Becks.After all, this is a man who has posed in pants for ALL the major fashion companies.In 2007, his Armani ads – complete with a big bulge – had female fans swooning.They paid him handsomely too – a reported £20million for a three-year deal.In 2012, Beckham repeated the feat with H&M to release his own bodywear collection.Most recently, Becks stripped down for Boss to show off their latest underwear range.David Beckham was reportedly paid £20m to model for ArmaniCredit: HandoutIn 2012, Beckham released his own underwear range with H&MMost recently, Becks stripped off for BossCredit: Bossread more sport featuresJude BellinghamLast year, Jude sent fans wild when he starred in an underwear campaign for Skims.Previously, we’d seen the brand’s co-founder Kim Kardashian showing off their underwear range.But this, in aid of launching a men’s range, was a different gravy.Bellingham also showed off his football skills, juggling a ball in the pictures.In 2024, Jude Bellingham modelled for SkimsCredit: SKIMSBellingham shows off his fancy foot work in Skims pantsCredit: SKIMSSon Heung-minIn 2022, Spurs ace Son became the face of Calvin Klein in South Korea.Soon, he was showing off his amazing six-pack in a set of photos and talking proudly about working with the designer.He said: “Calvin Klein products have had a special place in my wardrobe for years, so our partnership is a natural fit.”Like so many people around the world, I am constantly inspired by the brand’s iconic campaigns, so to be the face of one is both exciting and surreal.”Son is also a global ambassador for Burberry, a role he started the same year.Son Heung-min is the face of Calvin Klein in South KoreaCredit: Calvin KleinZlatan IbrahimovicLike Ronaldo, Zlatan went down the route of peddling his own brand.Why wouldn’t you if you’ve got the supreme confidence the retired Sweden legend has?Aside from a stylish black and white photoshoot, he also appeared in a social media ad where he poked fun at himself by telling his agent to sell pre-worn Zlatan underwear for more cash in a spoof vid.Only Zlatan could get away with that.Zlatan Ibrahimovic shows off his underwear range in a classy photoshootIbrahimovic took the mickey out of himself in a spoof ad onlineCredit: Twitter, @Ibra_officialFreddie LjungbergThe Arsenal legend was as famous in North London for his goals as he was for this Calvin Klein ad in the 2000s.His image adorned billboards all over the world, including in the US, with Americans not having a clue he was a professional footballer.Freddie opened the door for other sports stars to pose in their Calvins too.Arsenal legend Freddie Ljungberg was a pioneer for footballers modelling underwearCredit: Advertising ArchiveItaly national teamOn the pitch success may have eluded the Azzuri of late, but off it the are the style kings.In the past, they have rocked up to major tournaments in classy suits personally designed by Armani.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn 2006, Fabio Cannavaro, Gennaro Gattuso and Andrea Pirlo posed for Dolce & Gabbana in this revealing ad in 2006.It started off a chain of similar ads for Italy that seem to appear prior to their big tournaments.Italian National team show off their briefs in a classy Dolce and Gabbana advertCredit: Dolce & Gabbana More

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      in Soccer

      Jadon Sancho has matured at Chelsea but shock return to Man Utd and new role under Ruben Amorim could save his career

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      JADON SANCHO’s former coach believes the struggling winger could still be a success at Old Trafford.The 24-year-old wide man, who is currently on loan at Chelsea from Manchester United, was hauled off against Arsenal after an indifferent display.Jadon Sancho’s struggles continued the Emirates against ArsenalCredit: GettySancho was replaced in the 76th minute against the Gunners following an ineffectual performanceCredit: ReutersNow, Sancho is at a career crossroad with his future up in the airCredit: GettySancho’s form at Chelsea has tailed off this seasonThe Blues have an obligation to buy Sancho for around £25million, should they finish above 15th in the Premier League.However, recent reports suggest Sancho could find himself back at Old Trafford, if Chelsea pay a ‘penalty fee’ to back out of the deal.This season, after starting the campaign off well, he has managed just two goals in 28 games.Premier League player development lead coach Dan Micciche worked with Sancho at U15 and U16 level for England.He believes a return to Man Utd, who paid Borussia Dortmund £73million for his services in 2021, could benefit Sancho and get him out of his recent slump.Coach Ruben Amorim is desperate to find an option to play as a left-sided No10 in his preferred 3-4-3 formation, with Alejandro Garnacho struggling to get to grips with the position.But, in Sancho, the Portuguese boss could have someone suited to play the role.Micciche told SunSport: “Jadon would have to play as a left-sided No10, I couldn’t see him play as a wing-back.”Can he play there? Yeah, absolutely. I think he could play for Ruben Amorim in his system.”It might actually suit him more – in terms of freeing him up. “He wouldn’t be hugging the touchline as much, he would in middle of the pitch more and would have more options when he gets the ball.”Jadon Sancho throws corner flag during Chelsea’s celebration at Tottenham Sancho is at a career crossroads. After showing some early promise at Stamford Bridge, his Chelsea loan has since turned sour.The latest example of stalling came in his performance against Arsenal on Sunday, where he was hauled off after 76 minutes following an ineffectual performance.Should he sign for Chelsea in the summer, his game time could be further limited under boss Enzo Maresca as competition for places will be even more intense.Chelsea will welcome Brazil star Willian Estevao to Stamford Bridge in the summer, having signed him a year ago for £45m from Palmeiras.However, Micciche believes Sancho’s matured under the Italian manager.He said: “I’ve been to a few Chelsea games this season and Jadon has done some wonderful things in those games.”The way they play, he’s often left in one on one situations. “The way the game is going now, it can be hard for those types of players because they get doubled up on a lot.”The expectation on him is so high. When he gets the ball, we’re expecting a bit of magic.”I actually think he’s matured. When he was younger, he would be trying to beat the full-back and dribble his way through situation whenever he got the ball.”In Maresca’s system he plays with his teammates a lot more. I think what makes wingers more effective is the runs ahead of him because that unbalances the full-back.Sancho was ineffectual against ArsenalMan Utd paid £73m to sign Sancho in 2021 from Borussia DortmundCredit: AlamyChelsea have an obligation to buy Sancho for around £25m in the summerCredit: RexHowever, recent reports suggest Chelsea could pay a penalty clause and send him back to Old TraffordCredit: Rex”Whereas when you get the ball and those forward runs aren’t made, and you are left one against one, opposition will double up.”Then, you’ve got two choices – try to beat two players or pass the ball.”I think Sancho might have had less ‘wow’ moments, but he’s played for the team a lot and showed maturity.”During his time at club level, Sancho’s professionalism has sometimes been questioned.At Borussia Dortmund, he was dropped for an important Champions League match against Barcelona after skipping a team meeting in the build-up.While at Manchester United, Sancho was banished to the reserves by former manager Erik ten Hag for claiming the manager lied about his exclusion from the squad in a match against Arsenal.Micciche believes Sancho is misunderstood and is a good person, at heart.He said: “What we’re talking about is different personalities.”There’s one thing about having a different type of personality, then there’s another thing of not being a very nice person.”Jadon is a good person. What we have to remember is players are all very different.Sancho earned a reputation as one of football’s most talented youngsters at Borussia DortmundCredit: AP:Associated PressDan Micciche believes Sancho is misunderstoodCredit: Getty Images – Getty”I always think the hardest players to coach are wingers. It’s very easy to point the finger at them and how they don’t track back.”But, if you look at the players the current generation looked up to – it’s the likes of Ronaldinho and Neymar, flamboyant players and personalities.”I think there’s a generalisation that players who have lots of flair are bad characters. It’s just their personality. They don’t do it deliberately. “They are a bit different, to even how they dress, or sticking to rules, but as long as it doesn’t get out of control you have to accept they’re a bit different.”They’re just creative individuals and think and act a bit differently, but that’s what makes them special. If you take out their individuality, then the game becomes very boring.”Micciche believes Sancho needs to add another string to his bow and continue his development.He divulged: “He’ll be judged on his goals and assists, so he’ll need to improve on those.”He also needs to develop his game and find different ways to be effective on the pitch.”That could be becoming a free-kick specialist. If he wanted to copy his idol, Ronaldinho who could score from set-pieces, then that would add another string to his bow.”Say a free-kick does come off during a game, then that would also give him the confidence to try something different during a match that he might not have tried if he hadn’t scored that free-kick.”There’s always things players can do to add to their game to solve different problems.”We know Jadon’s a good player, otherwise teams wouldn’t double up on him. Now, he has to overcome that.”Sancho needs to overcome his hurdles by working hard in trainingCredit: RexMicciche believes Sancho can get a smile back into his game if he adds a new skill to his gameCredit: AFPMicciche suggested Sancho became a free-kick specialistCredit: Getty Images – Getty More