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      in Soccer

      Meet Lionel Messi’s richer teammate Leonardo Campana, who loves skydiving in Hawaii and buys art from a Miami artist

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      LIONEL MESSI might be the highest paid player in the MLS, but he’s not even the wealthiest man on his team.That honour is bestowed to his Inter Miami teammate, Leonardo Campana who is heir to a £1billion-plus fortune.
      Lionel Messi’s teammate Leonardo Campana is the heir to a £1bn fortune
      Campana stars for Ecuador and his dad is South American politician and business man Pablo Campana
      Leonardo Campana shares a family snap with dad Pablo and mum Isabel
      Ex-tennis star Pablo Campana poses with Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham
      The Ecuadorian, only 23, is the son of Pablo Campana – a prominent South American politician, businessman, and ex-tennis player who competed at the Olympics.
      Born into money and sporting heritage is serving Leonardo well, who lives an epic lifestyle.
      Not only can he count the world’s greatest player as a pal, he also enjoys amazing adventures, including skydiving in Hawaii.
      While the forward is also an art collector – owning work from famous Miami pop artist Leonardo Hidalgo.
      Read more football news
      He shares his wealth with stunning girlfriend, Ariana Altuve who studied Fashion Business at New York’s prestigious Parsons School of Design.
      Family affair
      Leonardo, who was with Premier League side Wolves from 2019-2020, comes from good stock.
      His dad Pablo was a sportsman, famously competing for Ecuador in the tennis doubles competition at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atalanta.
      Between 1990-1997 he played in the Davis Cup, and was once ranked 165 in the world.
      Most read in Football
      But, when Pablo found out he was expecting a child he gave up the game aged just 24.
      Fans demand Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami contract ‘terminated ASAP’ after spotting what he did during loss to Vissel Kobe
      Instead of sport, he turned his hand to politics and became the Minister of Commerce in the Ecuadorean government.
      Alongside that, he founded a real estate company in his homeland called Millenium S.A. that has made him a fortune.
      Interestingly, while his dad may be a billionaire, Leonardo’s grandma Isabel Noboa is recognised as one of Ecuador’s most successful businesswomen.
      Dad Pablo has been seen at Inter Miami games, cheering his son on.
      He even posed up for snaps with Messi and Inter Miami’s co-owner David Beckham on the DRV PNK Stadium turf.

      Head for heights
      Standing at 6ft 2in, Campana is known for his aerial ability.
      However, his head for heights stretches to as far as jumping out of a plane with a parachute.
      Back in November, the fearless footballer went on a luxury holiday to Hawaii.
      Usually a clause in many top player’s contracts insists they don’t do anything risky while away.
      Campana showed off his daredevil side skydiving
      While on holiday, Campana packs a £60k Jeep Wrangler
      In the Galapagos Islands Campana and his Wag Ariana hired a boat
      Campana shared snaps of the local wildlife
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      But daredevil Campana clearly felt the adrenaline rush of skydiving was too much to turn down.
      And he shared his stunt with a mid-air picture to his 603,000 followers on Instagram.
      He simply captioned the snap with a rock and roll hand gesture emoji.
      On the same trip, Campana was seen rummaging in the boot of his £60,000 Jeep Wrangler.
      Joining him on his travels was his gorgeous missus, Ariana.
      They also enjoyed a magical trip to the Galapagos Islands, where they hired a boat and saw the local wildlife.
      American beauty
      Not much is known about Ariana, the blonde stunner in a relationship with Campana.
      She keeps her personal life to herself, while her Instagram is private.
      It appears she has been in a romance with Ecuador international for a year.
      Campana appears smitten by love Ariana
      Ariana keeps her personal life private on social media
      Fashionable Ariana studied Fashion Business in New York
      But already, they are inseparable.
      She shared in his hi-jinx in Hawaii and is happy playing the supportive Wag by cheering him on during Inter Miami games.
      According to reports, she studied Administration and Marketing and completed a four-year degree at Bryant University in the United States.
      The Balenciaga-wearing Ariana also finished a Fashion Business course at Parsons School of Design, in New York.
      Expensive hobbies
      Buying art is often an exercise for the rich and the elite.
      Campana’s artistic taste is a bit more modern, and he has a penchant for pop art.
      Back in December, he splashed the cash on a print of a painting by famed Miami artist Leonardo Hidalgo.
      The artwork, a rather fitting piece featuring Campana celebrating a goal with Messi, would have cost thousands.
      In the past, Hidalgo has been commissioned by Hillary Clinton, Marc Anthony, Enrique Iglesias and more.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Famed artist Leonardo Hidalgo presents Campana with his artwork
      Modern artist Hidalgo has also painted a tribute to David Beckham which features on Instagram
      A thankful Campana thanked Hidalgo on Instagram.
      “Thank you @artistleonardohidalgo for capturing this moment that will be marked for the rest of my life,” he wrote. More

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      in Soccer

      Inside abandoned English stadium covered in barbed wire with eerie new stand that has never hosted a match

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      GHOST goals. Haunted houses. Ghost ships. How about a ghost stadium?Well, that is exactly what the Millmoor Ground, or Millmoor, the “spiritual home” of Championship side Rotherham, is nowadays.
      Rotherham’s old ground has been left standingCredit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      The Millmoor ground is still plastered with the advertising of C.F. BoothCredit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      The stadium has stood dormant since 2008Credit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      It was Rotherham United’s home from 1925Credit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      The stadium, located near the middle of town, was Rotherham’s home for 83 years.
      It dates all the way back to the 1890s when it was used by the Rotherham Church Institute in the Sheffield Association League, before passing to Rotherham County and then Rotherham United.
      It has overseen seven promotions, eight relegations and played host to their ever League Cup final in 1961 when Rotherham beat Aston Villa 2-0 in the first leg before the Villans won 3-0 in the second leg.
      But it has now become decrepit and being left desolate since 2008 after Rotherham were forced to move to their current 12,000 capacity AESSEAL New York Stadium following a row over rent.
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      Millmoor – located just a few hundred yards away from the club’s new home – held some 8,300 fans but held a record attendance of 25,170 when local rivals Sheffield United came to visit back in 1952.
      It understandably holds plenty of sentimental value to the Millers faithful given it had been their ground since Rotherham’s inception in 1925.
      However, the ground is now an empty shell which promised so much.
      Covered in barbed wire and overgrown plants and surrounded by fences, you might be mistaken for thinking the Millmoor would fit into a science fiction film set in a dystopian future.
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      HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
      But no, it is far from fiction. It is real life.
      Rotherham left Millmoor while in the middle of constructing a new main stand.
      We live INSIDE Luton Town’s famous entrance – footballs smash our windows but there are some surprising perks
      You can still see the half-built stand, but it will never be finished.
      Would-be trespassers into the ground are warned of the dangers with a few huge “keep out” signs.
      There are also posters of CF Booth all over after former Rotherham owner Ken Booth – who owned the scrap metal yard next to the ground – took over and saved the club from administration in 1987.
      Reflecting on the ground, the club’s current owner and chairman Tony Stewart told The Athletic last year: “Millmoor is decaying. It’s falling apart.”
      As for why Millmoor has stood dormant for the best part of two decades, Stewart is perplexed, adding: “It’s a mystery to Rotherham. It’s a mystery to the man on the street.”
      Booth had done his best to keep the club afloat following the collapse of ITV’s Digital TV deal which ravaged the lower leagues.
      Millmoor has become decrepit since being abandonedCredit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      Having been left largely intact, much of what would have been seen on matchdays remainsCredit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      Rotherham had to leave the ground in 2008 over a rent rowCredit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      Millmoor held more than 8,000 fansCredit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      A fan consortium took over the club for £1 after a favourable deal was struck with the Booth family – which involved the club’s only tangible assets Millmoor and the club’s training ground — being left in the family’s possession.
      Another group then came in before Stewart took over.
      The common story is that the club left Millmoor because the Booth’s were charging high rent.
      But Stewart remembers it slightly differently, explaining how the Booths wanted them to keep the stadium the exact same during a five-year lease while Rotherham wanted to look into a new stadium.
      Stewart said: “There were 18 items [demanded by the Booths] I didn’t agree with.
      “It would’ve meant that if there was a scratch to a cabinet, I would’ve had to replace all that. I just felt it wasn’t right.”
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Rotherham’s final game at Millmoor was a 1-0 win over Barnet, but with negotiations ongoing over the ground’s future there was no big farewell for it.
      The club’s new ground is far more suited to a team in England’s second tier with its modern facilities, but Millmoor still stands as a tapestry to Rotherham’s history.
      Millmoor hosted the first-ever League Cup final in 1961Credit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      Rotherham owner Tony Stewart said it was a mystery why nothing had been done to the groundCredit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      The record attendance at Millmoor came in 1952 for a match seen by 25,170 against local rivals Sheffield UnitedCredit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      It remains the ‘spiritual home’ of RotherhamCredit: Mark Robinson – The Sun More

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      in Soccer

      Meet the League One football star who gives fans incredible behind-the-scenes insights such as being mic’d during games

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      LEAGUE One footballer Ryan Tafazolli has amassed a staggering following of over 200,000 fans on social media.The Wycombe Wanderers star, 32, appears on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.
      Ryan Tafazolli is a hit on social media
      Handsome Wycombe Wanderers star Tafazolli chronicles his life as a pro footballer
      Incredibly, Tafazolli gets mic’d up for games and winds up his opponents
      Whether it’s showing off his lifestyle, epic holidays and fashion sense in glam snaps.
      Or, sharing his opinions on his and team-mate’s latest FIFA ratings – his channels give you a glimpse into the life of a professional.
      And he even gets mic’d up during games to give fans a taste of the on-pitch action.
      Tafazolli’s behind-the-scenes content gives football fans something to savour.
      Read more football news
      Glam lifestyle
      Tafazolli has been posting clips on TikTok since 2022, sharing his lifestyle on Instagram since 2014, and filmed himself on YouTube since 2008.
      But, it’s been a steady rise in his popularity that seen his follower count grow.
      On Instagram, where he has 63,000 followers, he shares the epic lifestyle of a footballer.
      The handsome defender shows off his fashion choices, from smart linen ensembles complete with a fedora hat to holidays in Abu Dhabi.
      Most read in Football
      Alongside that is snapshots of his football career thus far.
      Fuming Wycombe striker Akinfenwa confronts MK Dons fans over abusive chant before supporter is ‘kicked out’
      From playing Man City in a FA Cup tie to celebrating a goal, his journey is chronicled in a series of snapshots.
      However, it’s on TikTok where Ryan comes into his own.
      Going viral
      Astonishingly, he has gained an impressive 128,000 followers on his channel.
      Better still, his videos have generated a staggering 4.2 million likes.
      Very impressive numbers for a footballer has never played in the top flight.
      The reason why Ryan appeals is simple. He gives football fans access into matchdays, training, recovery, lifestyle and on-pitch POV’s.
      Often, he gets mic’d up during a game, which shows the grittier side of League One.
      Playing mind games with his opponents, as well as coarse language and wind-ups are par for the course.
      One clip captioned, ‘How to get into an opponent’s head in game’ shows Ryan winding up a penalty taker in a game before he’s about to strike the ball.
      On TikTok, Tafazolli offers hints and tips to footballers
      Tafazolli shows off exercises to prevent hamstring injuries
      Tafazolli’s mic’d up clips show the gritty side of League One
      While sportsmanship may have seemed to have gone out the window, the hilarious nature of the giant centre back, who stands at 6ft5in, shouting at the forward he’s going to miss makes compelling viewing.
      And 2.3 million TikTok users have watched the video.
      But where Ryan’s TikTok becomes a useful tool is the quick montages and fitness tips he provides.
      In one, he shows off the three best exercises to prevent you from suffering recurring hamstring injuries.
      In another, he highlights a cheat to improve your speed.
      Although that could be taken with a pinch of salt, if EA Sports are to be believed.
      Slammed for pace
      Over on his YouTube channel, Ryan posed a video of Wycombe’s stars receiving their FIFA ratings.
      Tafazolli shares his disappointment with his FIFA ratings
      His social media followers get a glimpse into Tafazolli’s daily routines
      Tafazolli also shares opinion pieces on the game on YouTube
      In the football world, this is something you imagine that that goes on all over the country – with players disputing their stats in the game.
      Influencer Ryan was equally bemused by his 39 rating for pace.
      “I am now the slowest in the squad, so I am unhappy” he is seen saying in a brilliant edited video inside the dressing room with his teammates.
      As for his shooting stat of 28, he joked: “They’ve not seen me finish, clearly.”
      Edited pieces include a ‘Day in the life of a footballer’, ‘Training with Lewandowski’s trainer,’ and matchday vlogs are intriguing.
      While elsewhere, his achievements in the game are celebrated, like the ‘Road to Promotion’ to facing up against tough opponents.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      There’s even a clip with Pep Guardiola, sadly his mic wasn’t working, but Ryan explained that the Spanish tactician explained to him the sacrifices needed to be made to get to the top.
      If you haven’t made it as a professional footballer, this is the closest you will get to understanding what it is like to live like one.
      Pep Guardiola is asked what it takes to make it to the top level by Tafazolli
      Matchday vlogs are filmed for Tafazolli’s YouTube channel
      Tafazolli gives football fans a glimpse into life as a pro More

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      in Soccer

      Meet the stunning Wags of Amazon Prime series Married To The Game, from an NFL cheerleader to a singer on The Voice

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      THE Wags of football’s famous stars have their own show.Amazon Prime’s cameras have followed the partners of Ilkay Gundogan, Jorginho, James Tartowski, Riyad Mahrez and Matt Turner for a documentary about their epic lifestyles.
      Gorgeous Sara Gundogan is one of the stars of Amazon Prime show Married To The GameCredit: Instagram @sarabenamira
      Sara is a model and TV host from ItalyCredit: Instagram @sarabenamira
      Barcelona’s Ilkay Gundogan married Sara in a private ceremony in 2022Credit: Reuters
      The six-part series streams from February 23, where viewers will get a glimpse into their hectic lives.
      We will see how they juggle their commitments, families and home lives while supporting their partner’s high-profile careers.
      But who are the glam stunners who Amazon Prime have chosen for the cast of Married To The Game?
      Sara Gundogan
      Gorgeous Italian model Sara, 29, met ex-Man City star Ilkay Gundogan in 2021.
      Read more Wag stories
      A year later, he popped the question before they married each other in a private ceremony in 2022.
      Sara was born in France but moved to Italy when she was young, where she worked as a TV presenter.
      She once sparked fury when she called the Manchester restaurant scene “horrible”.
      But she has since changed her tune, revealing she now misses the Rainy City after moving to Barcelona.
      Most read in Football
      Taylor Ward
      Reality TV beauty Taylor, 26, ‘secretly married’ Mahrez in 2022, according to reports.
      Arsenal star Jorginho gets engaged to stunning Wag Catherine Harding and shares intimate snaps of proposal
      She appeared in Real Housewives of Cheshire alongside her mum Dawn and former footballer dad Ashley Ward.
      Taylor was once linked to City legend Sergio Aguero, before she began dating Mahrez – who popped the question with a £400,000 ring in 2021 on a romantic holiday in Mykonos.
      They have a daughter together called Mila.
      In the trailer for the show, Taylor can be seen breaking down when Mahrez tells her they are leaving Manchester for Saudi Arabia, after he is offered a mega-money move.
      Taylor Ward is a reality TV star
      Blonde stunner Taylor appeared in Real Housewives of CheshireCredit: Instagram
      Taylor is seen breaking down in the trailer for Married To The GameCredit: Instagram @taylorwardx
      Riyad Mahrez and Taylor Ward currently live in Saudi ArabiaCredit: Splash
      read more sport features
      Catherine Harding
      Catherine, 33, is a singer and the fiancee of Arsenal ace Jorginho.
      She famously appeared on reality TV show The Voice, where she was mentored by Ollie Murs.
      The brunette beauty also had a romance with Jude Law, fathering a child with the Hollywood actor.
      According to reports, the focus of her storyline for the series will be on her wedding preparations.
      Will Catherine be a bridezilla?
      Catherine Harding is a singerCredit: @cat_cavelli
      Brunette beauty Catherine once appeared on The VoiceCredit: Instagram / @cat_cavelli_
      Jorginho and partner Catherine Harding
      Sam Tarkowski
      Sam got together with Everton and England defender James Tarkowski in 2015, when he was still at Brentford.
      Their romance has since blossomed, with the fitness buff ready to branch out on her own.
      She recently trained as a personal trainer, and has plans to open her own gym.
      However, as Married To The Game will show, the 32-year-old is dedicated to daughter Ivy, who she wants to show a good example to.
      Samantha Tarkowski met her partner James in 2015Credit: Instagram @samanthajtarkowski
      Sam shows off her amazing bikini body
      Gym bunny Sam has reinvented herself as a personal trainer
      Everton’s James Tarkowski with stunning SamCredit: Instagram @tarky19
      Ash Turner
      American Ash may have had the hardest time filming the documentary.
      She moved to the UK with husband Matt Turner in 2022, when he signed for Arsenal.
      However, she was also pregnant at the time with their first child.
      Then, just before their second child was born, the family had to up sticks to Nottingham after he was sold by the London club.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Ash is a former NFL cheerleader who represented the New England Patriots.
      She is also the founder of a charity organisation called Miss Pink, which supports breast cancer survivors, families and families.
      Ashley Turner was once a cheerleader for the New England Patriots
      Glam Ash has had a tough time settling into the life in the UK
      Ash shows off her pom pom skills
      USA keeper Matt Turner poses for a snap with Ashley More

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      in Boxing

      Inside Tyson Fury’s £58m private jet that boasts a king-size bed, private cinema and is a favourite of world leaders

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      TYSON FURY’s life of luxury knows no bounds.We is not shy of spending his cash on his epic car collection, with a love of Rolls-Royce and Ferrari evident.
      Tyson Fury has been travelling in luxury in an Airbus ACJ319 private jetCredit: https://www.corporatejetinvestor.com
      The Airbus ACJ319 is one of the most spacious private jets aroundCredit: https://www.corporatejetinvestor.com
      There is a bedroom space for Fury to lounge inCredit: YouTube
      Fury, seen on a different jet, is a fan of flying privately
      While he lives in a stunning mansion that overlooks Morcambe Bay worth £1.7million.
      Designer threads, including £400 Versace dressing robes are also worn exclusively by the Gypsy King before his big fights.
      But, it’s his latest way of travelling that has caught the eye.
      Fury, 35, is being ferried about from the UK to Saudi Arabia and back in an amazing £58million private jet.
      Read more Tyson Fury news
      The Airbus ACJ319 costs a whopping £13,000 per-hour to charter.
      With the duration of a non-stop flight from Riyadh being just over the seven hour mark, that could cost a staggering £91,000.
      However, you can be sure he flies in comfort.
      The luxury plane boasts a king size bedroom, private cinema, and more.
      Most read in Boxing
      Tyson Fury’s Amazing Car Collection
      After all, the gypsy has to live like a king.
      Flying home in style
      On a flight back to England, Fury shared his enthusiasm about returning to Blighty.
      “Back to reality today,” he wrote on Instagram.
      ‘Back to the good old Morecambe Bay weather. Rain, wind, cold. Back to the school runs.”
      He was joined by his nutritionist, Gregg Marriott who looked equally unimpressed by the weather report.
      But they could have hardly complained about their surroundings.
      The Airbus ACJ319 is as luxurious as it gets.
      Incredibly, it can accommodate up to 19 people – plenty of Fury’s entourage.
      There are plenty of separate areas that are made with comfort in mind.
      Depending on the configuration of the aircraft, you will find a dining room, lounges, bedrooms, and even a cinema room.
      The cabin is 78 feet long, 12.2 feet wide, and 7.4 feet high, with a total cabin volume of 5,900 cubic feet.
      Passengers can dine in style with silver service dinner settingCredit: https://www.nomadjet.com
      Spacious bathroom are fitted with lavish interiors
      The ACJ319’s bedroom is perfect for VIP passengers
      Luxury has never looked better on board the ACJ319Credit: YouTube
      read more sport features
      The three main areas, the cockpit, VIP area, and main seating area have their own independent temperature control devices.
      As for the bedroom, it’s big enough for Tyson to stretch his 6ft9in frame – with a king size bed fitted and perfect for putting your feet up.
      President Fury
      Fury is in good company when it comes to his private jet of choice.
      For the ACJ series of Airbus planes are favoured by world leaders.
      Presidents from countries including Brazil, Germany, Italy, Turkey and Ukraine utilise them.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      ACJ319’s can be configured differentlyCredit: https://www.nomadjet.com
      It costs £13k per hour to charter one of these private jetsCredit: YouTube
      It has a length of 78ft 9InCredit: YouTube
      There is even enough room for Fury to stretch his legsCredit: YouTube
      Paris and Tyson Fury enjoy a private flight together on a different planeCredit: Instagram
      Major airlines have also used ACJ planes, including America Airlines and United Airlines.
      Is it any wonder the king of the ring loves travelling in one. More

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      in Soccer

      Weird football transfers from Jesse Lingard’s FC Seoul deal and Alves’ €1 salary… to Bendtner joining Juventus

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      NEVER underestimate football’s ability to shock.Over the years, we have witnessed some weird transfers. Players swapping their glamour days for a runout at Barnet, for example, and more.
      Andy Carroll signed for Reading in a short-term deal last year a surprising moveCredit: JASONPIX
      Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano shocked the world when they signed for West Ham in 2006Credit: PA:Press Association
      Former Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard is unveiled by FC SeoulCredit: AP
      Jesse Lingard struggled to find a Premier League club that matched his ambitions, and ended up at FC Seoul in this year.
      Back in 2021, Dani Alves returned to Barcelona at the age of 38, and will reportedly be paid just ONE EURO a month.
      And who can forget that same year, Andy Carroll coming out of the wilderness to sign for Reading on a two-month contract.
      Here are some of the weirdest transfers we’ve ever come across.
      Read more football news
      JESSE LINGARD
      In the summer of 2023, Lingard’s spell at Nottingham Forest came to an end.
      He trained with West Ham, who he previously enjoyed a loan spell with, after his City Ground departure but then decided to join up with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq.
      However, he was unable to sign a contract with them because they had a limit on foreign players in the Saudi League.
      The former Man Utd ace was then linked with a move to Everton and allegedly offered himself to Barcelona but neither move failed to materialise.
      Instead, he penned a two-year deal with FC Seoul reportedly worth £17,500-per-week.
      Ex-Arsenal ace Bendtner opens up on boozy parties, depression and fallout with dad after ‘letting the black wolf rule’
      It is claimed he snubbed 26 clubs to sign for the South Korean outfit.
      NICKLAS BENDTNER
      On the final day of the transfer window in August 2012, Juventus were short of a centre forward.
      But even Arsenal fans, who had grown tired of Nicklas Bendtner’s off-the-field antics, were shocked the Italian giants went for their Danish striker.
      Especially since the previous season he had failed to pull up any trees at Sunderland.
      That didn’t deter Juve gambling on the forward, but injury problems restricted him to just 11 appearances – and he failed to score.
      Unsurprisingly, the Serie A side didn’t take up an option of buying him permanently.
      Arsenal fans were left stunned when Serie A giants Juventus took troubled striker Nicklas Bendtner off their handsCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Bendtner failed to score in 11 games for the club and a permanent move was quashedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      BOJAN KRKIC
      The former Barcelona man was the epitome of the question; can he do it on a rainy Tuesday night at Stoke?
      The simple answer was no, despite Bojan having the benefit of playing for the home side too.
      Mark Hughes concluded the surprise deal for the man labelled the next Messi in 2014 for just £1.8million.
      “Anyone who knows European football will be aware of him as a player and the fact that he sees his future at Stoke City is really exciting,” Hughes beamed at the time.
      16 goals in 85 games later he was sold to MLS side Montreal Impact in 2019.
      Bojan Krcic swapped Barcelona for StokeCredit: Action Images – Reuters
      read more sport features
      STEVEN CAULKER
      Although it was only a loan move, Jurgen Klopp bringing in Caulker at Liverpool from QPR in a January transfer window in 2016 was one no-one saw coming.
      A centre-back who came through the ranks at Tottenham, the one-time England cap managed to play four games for the reds.
      What was even more unbelievable was he was asked to play upfront.
      Sadly, his Liverpool was cut short before a deal could be thrashed out, when Caulker was admitted into rehab with addictions to alcohol and gambling threatening his career.
      Steven Caulker was asked to play upfront for LiverpoolCredit: Reuters
      TEVEZ AND MASCHERANO
      Probably one of the most audacious double-signings in Premier League history.
      No wonder then West Ham boss Alan Pardew had a smile like a Cheshire cat at their unveiling back in 2006.
      The Argentinian duo were plucked from Corinthians, and only stayed with the Hammers for a season with Tevez joining Manchester United and Mascherano signing for Liverpool.
      Tevez would write his name in the history books by scoring the goal that secured the club’s Premier League safety in a 1-0 win over Man Utd.
      Later, Pardew revealed he had only asked his chief executive to buy James Milner and that his Christmas came early.
      Carlos Tevez helped save West Ham from relegationCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      LUTHER BLISSETT
      Cruelly called Luther ‘Miss it’ by away fans, Blissett is a Watford legend and their all-time top goalscorer.
      After winning the First Division Golden Boot in 1983, AC Milan paid £1million to bring him to Italy.
      But Blissett struggled to settle in Italy, scoring just five times in 30 appearances in the club.
      His dietary requirements were also unfulfilled.
      “No matter how much money you have here, you can’t seem to get Rice Krispies,” he said.
      AC Milan gambled on Watford legend Luther Blissett, who failed to settle in ItalyCredit: AP:Associated Press
      EDGAR DAVIDS
      One of the finest midfielders of his generation, it was a shock to see Edgar Davids end up at Barnet.
      After all, this was a former Dutch international who had won the Champions League with Ajax, and played for AC Milan, Juventus, Inter Milan and Barcelona in a star-studded career.
      Still, in 2012 – still living in North London after a spell at Spurs and then Crystal Palace – he became player manager of League Two Barnet.
      However, he struggled to keep his discipline on the pitch – getting sent off three times in his first eight games of the 2013-14 season and picking up a booking in every one of those matches.
      His bizarre managerial career took a new turn when he decided to wear the No1 jersey normally worn by goalkeepers, insisting he was setting a trend for midfielders to don that number. He resigned in 2014.
      After starring at Ajax, Juventus, AC Milan and Tottenham, Edgar Davids opted to end his career at League Two BarnetCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      FERNANDO HIERRO, YOURI DJORKAEFF AND JAY-JAY OKOCHA
      There was no doubt Sam Allardyce had big plans for Bolton Wanderers.
      Although they were in their twilight years, between 2002-2005 Real Madrid legend Fernando Hierro, France World Cup winner Youri Djorkaeff and the remarkably gifted Jay-Jay Okocha all played for the club at the same time.
      Okocha joined from PSG on a free transfer, and soon became a fans’ favourite.
      Djorkaeff scored an impressive 21 goals from 87 games from midfield, initially snubbing interest from Manchester United and Liverpool for three years with the Trotters.
      While Hierro finished his illustrious career playing for Wanderers aged 37, launching long balls from the back.
      Youri Djorkaeff and Jay-Jay Okocha were part of a dream team of foreign signings at BoltonCredit: Reuters
      Real Madrid legend Fernardo Hierro enjoyed his final year as a pro with the TrottersCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      ROBERTO MANCINI
      Mancini enjoyed a stellar career at Sampdoria, where he helped the club win Serie A, four Coppa Italia titles, as well the European Cup Winners’ Cup.
      Three years followed at Lazio, but no one could’ve envisaged what was going to happen next.
      Most read in Football
      Mancini joined Peter Taylor’s Leicester City on loan – making his debut against Arsenal in 2001 at the grand old age of 36.
      However, he failed to complete 90 minutes in his five games for the club.
      His contract was torn up in February, when Mancini decided he wanted to manage Fiorentina.
      Roberto Mancini joined Leicester City at 36 from Lazio, but failed to reach previous heightsCredit: PA:Press Association
      PHILIPPE COUTINHO
      The Villans shocked everyone when they announced the loan signing of Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona in 2022.
      The third most-expensive player of all time uprooted his life in Spain to link up with former Liverpool team-mate Steven Gerrard in the Midlands.
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      And he made an instant impact on his debut as he came off the bench against Manchester United to score a late equaliser in a thrilling 2-2 draw.
      However, over time he looked a shadow of himself and when Unai Emery came to the club he was frozen out of the first team.
      Aston Villa signed Brazilian playmaker Philippe Coutinho on loan from Barcelona in 2022Credit: Getty More

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      Meet Thiago Silva’s wife Belle who’s gone to war with Pochettino and has history of controversial posts about Chelsea

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      FORGET the hairdryer treatment, Thiago Silva’s wife’s barbed digs are just as vicious.Isabelle Silva isn’t afraid to speak her mind about Chelsea’s blues, just ask Mauricio Pocettino.
      Isabelle Silva is the fiery wife of Chelsea player Thiago SilvaCredit: Instagram @bellesilva
      Brazilian Wag Isabelle is not afraid to speak her mindCredit: Instagram / @bellesilva
      Recently, Isabelle hinted it was time for Chelsea to sack Mauricio Pochettino
      Shortly after the Premier League giants were humbled on their own patch by Wolves 4-2, the Brazilian Wag took to X to write a cryptic post.
      “It’s time for change. If you wait any longer it will be too late,” she posted with clarity.
      She didn’t mention Pochettino, but timing is everything with her statement and it seems the Argie tactician is the latest to feel her wrath.
      No one at Stamford Bridge has felt safe since Silva arrived on our shores from PSG in 2020.
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      While she’s even dissed an opposition’s star player too. Isabelle is the Premier League’s most opinionated and outspoken Wag, as these examples testify.
      Timo Werner
      The German forward has always had his critics.
      For all the effort and work rate he puts in, Werner gets in the right positions but fails to take his chances.
      But, Isabelle wasn’t going to show him any mercy following a Champions League semi-final clash against Real Madrid.
      Most read in Football
      She slammed the ex-Chelsea star’s poor finishing on social media.
      Thiago Silva’s fuming wife slams commentator for slamming Chelsea defender in defeat to Brentford
      On a video on Instagram she Belle said: “This is karma, guys. Every team I go to there is a striker who keeps missing goals… this Werner, what is his name?”
      In another video she added: “We need a goal, we need to win this match but my attackers don’t want to score, I don’t know why they don’t score.”
      His stay at Chelsea lasted just two seasons, and Werner returned to Germany with his tail between his legs.
      Graham Potter
      The ex-Brighton boss was another who was bombed out of Chelsea, after Isabelle delivered her verdict.
      Their 2022-2023 campaign was one to forget, and Thiago Silva found himself left out the team in a 4-0 FA Cup defeat to Man City.
      “I just think that going back or looking for solutions when you take a hasty and totally wrong attitude is not wrong #goblues,” she penned.
      Amusingly, Stamford Bridge’s decor team was also attacked by the fiery South American beauty, when she noticed there weren’t any photos of her husband on designs around the stadium.
      Isabelle is a regular at Stamford BridgeCredit: instagram @bellesilva
      She uses social media regularly to vent her thoughts and frustrationCredit: Instagram @bellesilva
      She quizzed: “Today I went to Stamford Bridge, and I noticed that the photos changed around the stadium. But I don’t see a photo of @tsilva3 anywhere. Why @ChelseaFC?”
      Then, it was commentators who caught her ire after a 4-1 thrashing at home to Brentford.
      “I’m here in my box at Stamford Bridge,” she began. “I just listened right now to the commentator, who said that Thiago Silva is not attacking enough.
      “Respect Thiago Silva because Thiago Silva arrived yesterday, Thiago Silva played for Brazil, Thiago Silva is very tired, Thiago Silva is 37 years old, he plays like he is 20 years old.
      “So respect him, he’s not a machine. He needs to relax, alright?”
      Like any passionate fan, it hurts when your team isn’t do well.
      At the end of last season, she shared: “Very difficult to see what I see on TV. At home the situation worsens because I don’t know how to help, what to say. Very sad @tsilva3 you aren’t alone.”
      Unai Emery
      When Silva played in France for PSG, he was coached by Unai Emery – recognised as a top manager.
      His work at Aston Villa is second to none, and the blame for his failure at Arsenal shouldn’t be put on him entirely.
      Isabelle stuns in a bikini on holidayCredit: INSTAGRAM/BELLE SILVA
      Former PSG coach Unai Emery’s tactics were questioned by IsabelleCredit: EPA
      read more sport features
      That said, she didn’t agree with man being dropped by the Spanish tactician for a 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League.
      She questioned: “Tactics, tactics, tactics?”
      Rule here is don’t drop Silva, perhaps.
      Andy Robertson
      If it’s not her own team she is dissing, it’s the opposition.
      Liverpool defender Andy Robertson might be robust in the tackle, but we’re not sure how he handled Isabelle’s attack.
      The Scotland left-back shared a video on his social media of a clip leaving Jorginho for dead in a Reds win over Chelsea.
      Belle wasn’t having any of it and took to TikTok to have the final word.
      “Chilwell is better than u dude you even lost to Southampton,” she said.
      Her comment, rather brilliantly, drew over 500,000 likes.
      Andy Robertson of Liverpool and Timo Werner of Chelsea both felt Isabelle’s wrathCredit: Getty
      A vicious comment about Andy Robertson from Isabelle drew over 500,000 likesCredit: Instagram @bellesilva
      She nearly dumped Silva too
      If Isabelle had carried out this threat sooner in their romance, Thiago. might have saved himself a lot of bother during his career.
      When he was playing in Russia between 2005-2006 as a youngster, she travelled to Moscow to dump him.
      However, he became seriously ill with tuberculosis and she joined him for support to help nurse him back to help over several months.
      He told SportBuzz: “She went there [to Russia], she left everything in Brazil to go.”
      “A curious fact that few people know is that she had gone there to end our relationship and things ended up changing.
      “Of course, at that moment, I didn’t know what was going to happen, I found out years later, but I was happy to see her there at that very difficult time in my life. That moment there strengthened us as a couple.”
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      Thiago and Isabelle Silva nearly split when he played in RussiaCredit: Instagram / @bellesilva
      Isabelle Silva is very protective when it comes to her husbandCredit: Instagram @bellesilva
      They married at the end of that year, before going to have two children together, Isago and Iago.
      Word to wise, do not cross Isabelle Silva though. More

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      Inside Thibaut Courtois’ amazing car collection, from a £350,000 custom-built Porsche to a 200mph Ferrari Roma

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      FORMER Premier League star Thibaut Courtois is one of football’s most famous petrolheads.Who can forget during the coronavirus pandemic when the ex-Chelsea star raced against several F1 drivers in virtual races online.
      Thibaut Courtois is one of football’s most famous petrolheads
      Belgium star Courtois owns a custom-built Porsche worth £350,000Credit: Facebook @KRN Speed
      The motor features stunning interiorsCredit: Facebook @KRN Speed
      Courtois waited two years for his Porsche to be builtCredit: Facebook @KRN Speed
      The Real Madrid shotstopper, 31, has come a long way since the first car he owned, a Ford Focus.
      After trading that in for a Aston Martin Vanquish, when he hit the big time, the giant Belgium goalkeeper has added some incredible motors to his fleet.
      He had to wait two years for his customised Porsche to made to his specifications, which ended up costing £350,000.
      Courtois is also a fan of Ferrari, as well as Lamborghini.
      Read more car collections
      While he has taken his love of fast motors to the professional circuit and owns a Formula 4 team.
      Porsche 992 GT3 RS, £350,000
      After two years of waiting, Courtois was handed the keys of this stunning Porsche.
      He parted with £350,000 for the custom-built 992 GT3 RS, which has a top speed of 198mph and can go from 0-60mph in 3.14 seconds.
      Incredibly, the base model costs £212,000, but Courtois added £137,000 worth of extras.
      Most read in Football
      Gold-painted in champagne, he impressed his Real Madrid teammates when he rocked up to training with it.
      Thibaut Courtois and Fiancée Mishel Gerzig petting dolphins on holiday in Israel
      The motor even has Courtois’ signature painted on a door sill.
      Car website KRN Speed raved: “This is more delicious than Belgian chocolate.
      “Courtois has owned some pretty amazing cars over the years, but never something extraordinary like a specially commissioned 3 RS.”
      Lamborghini Urus, £188,000
      The Urus is now the go-to for any self-respecting footballer.
      There once was a huge waiting list for them, but that didn’t stop the likes of Marcus Rashford, Jack Grealish and more splashing the cash on them.
      Courtois is no different, joining football’s elite by owning the stunning SUV.
      Incredibly, it can hit 0-60 mph in just 3.1 seconds.
      Check out these amazing collections

      Courtois splashed the cash on a luxury Lamborghini Urus
      Ferrari Roma, £200,000
      The Ferrari Roma Spider is a design classic.
      It boats a a turbocharged V8 engine, a 2+2 seating arrangement, and is based on the Portofino model.
      Courtois showed his off in 2021, when arriving at the Valdebebas to train.
      It has a top speed of 199 plus, as well as a hefty price tag.
      The Ferrari Roma Spider can reportedly go 199 mph plusCredit: Getty
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      Mercedes AMG G63, £190,000
      Standing at 6ft7in tall, Courtois could do with some leg room when it comes to what he rides in.
      Which is why his spacious G-Wagon is the perfect car for him.
      It is, without doubt, the finest SUV on the market. Certainly one of the most luxurious.
      Regular G63’s come with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V-8 engine that makes 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque.
      The 0-62 mph varies from 4.5 seconds to 6.4 seconds.
      The G-Wagon gives Courtois plenty of space for his 6ft7in frameCredit: Auto Trader
      Aston Martin Vanquish, £200,000
      Maybe Courtois learned a thing or two from former teammate for club and country, Eden Hazard.
      The ex-Chelsea playmaker owned a Vanquish – a ultimate gentleman’s car.
      James Bond star Daniel Craig once owned a limited edition version, which was sold at an auction for £344,000.
      The successor to the Vantage series, it’s capable of reaching 0-62 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
      It also featured in the Bond film Die Another Day.
      Courtois arrives at Cobham during his Chelsea days in his Aston MartinCredit: PA:Press Association
      His first motor
      Footballers can own the most pitiful first cars. But Courtois got himself a decent runner.
      As a youth star he drove a sensible Ford Focus, which today cost around £29,000 for the sporty model.
      A winner of multiple awards through the years, they have a great reputation.
      They are also used as touring cars in motorsport, and some can reach speeds of up to 155 mph.
      Today’s Ford Focus motors cost up to £29kCredit: Supplied
      TC Racing
      In 2023, Courtois launched his own racing team in Formula 4.
      He called, rather unoriginally, TC Racing. But to be fair, not many footballers back up their petrolhead credentials by establishing a race car team.
      Joining forces with Roberto Merhi, a Spanish driver who raced in Japan’s Super GT and F1 back in 2015, they plan on focusing on talent development.
      Belgium international Courtois posted a promotional film for the team on Instagram, announcing: “Here we are.”
      He has yet to nominate TC Racing’s drivers for the 2024 season.
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      Courtois, pictured with F1 star Fernando Alonso, is a huge motorsport fan and owns a F4 teamCredit: Alamy
      F4 recruits young drivers from the world of go-karting among others, and trains them towards an F1 career.
      The Spanish F4 championship includes five races on home soil, plus further events in Belgium and Portugal. More