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      in Boxing

      Joshua and Wilder’s lifestyles compared, with AJ flying in private jets and the Bronze Bomber owning a £430k Lamborghini

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      IT looks like we know what the next big heavyweight fight is.Rivals Anthony Joshua, 33, and Deontay Wilder, 37, are by lined up for a grudge match in December.
      Worth £120m, Anthony Joshua boasts an envious lifestyle
      Deontay Wilder looks set to fight Joshua in December
      His promoter Eddie Hearn flew to Saudi Arabia last week to hold talks over a potential super-fight for AJ.
      And Joshua appeared to confirm that a blockbuster meeting with the Bronze Bomber is on the cards for later this year.
      In a video reposted to YouTube by iFL TV from Instagram, Joshua was asked if he’s going to beat Wilder.
      AJ responded: “That’s what’s happening, you know what’s going on.”
      Read more on Anthony Joshua
      When asked if the fight was going ahead in December, Joshua replied: “It’s public news we’re getting it down, throwing it down in December.”
      The pair have accumulated a huge wealth from boxing.
      While Wilder has made around £25million from the sport, that figure is dwarfed by AJ’s reported £170million fortune.
      It affords the heavyweight duo a lifestyle to envy. Here’s how they compare.
      Most read in Boxing
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST SPORTS BETTING APPS IN THE UK
      Cars
      Both AJ and Deontay boast an impressive garage, although the American shades it with sheer extravagance.
      The pride of his collection is an outrageous £430,000 Lamborghini Aventador he bought in 2015.
      This isn’t any old Lambo. No, it’s stylishly wrapped in faux alligator-skin.
      Wilder shows off his £430k Lamborghini Aventador
      Wilder also owns a road-legal Polaris Slingshot
      Motorbike fan Wilder boasts this Suzuki Hayabusa in his garage
      Anthony Joshua cherishes his personalised Range RoverCredit: Instagram, @anthony_Joshua
      Add to that a £347,000 Rolls-Royce Phantom, a £70,000 Hummer H2, custom-made Dodge Challenger costing £40,000 – cars clearly mean a lot to the Alabama native.
      He also boasts an incredibly gorgeous £14,500 Suzuki Hayabusa that looks like it should feature in a Mad Max film, as well as a brilliant Polaris Slingshot (£15,500).
      Thanks to his partnership with Jaguar Land Rover – which is rumoured to be worth £790,000 a year – AJ rolls round London in his choice of a fleet of luxury wheels, including a customised white Jaguar XJR, worth £93,000.
      His favourite motor is his personalised black Range Rover, which he says “looks very professional and sets a standard”.
      But AJ doesn’t boast anything as flashy as Wilder, that’s for sure.
      Private jet
      In 2021, Wilder was spotted flying a private jet ahead of his fight with Tyson Fury with fiancee Telli Swift.
      Although, that’s not a life he is accustomed to.
      Through Under Armour, one of his many sponsors, AJ gets to use their company jet.
      Under Armour supply AJ with a private jet when he wantsCredit: Instagram, @anthony_Joshua
      Deontay Wilder flew private before his fight with Tyson FuryCredit: Instagram
      Showing the interior of the £45million black G550 ahead of his trip to the States to face Ruiz for the first time, AJ said: “These type of things aren’t ordinary, in my daily life and in many other people’s daily lives, so it’s a blessing.
      “However, my view is even though I enjoy it and the door has been opened for me, I can’t forget to open the door for people who have come with me and the people who aren’t in a position to enjoy this type of luxury.
      “I never get too lost in the source and get carried away with these types of things.”
      6ft6in AJ has been seen in many glam locations around the world, you can bet he flew their privately for the extra leg room on board.
      Homes
      Anthony came from humble beginnings on a council estate in Watford.
      He bought his mum, Yeta Odusanya her council flat in north London for a mere £185,000 in 2013.
      AJ did spend a portion of his hard-earned winnings on a rented property in a north London mansion while he was training for the Wladimir Klitschko fight.
      According to a report, the mansion near Lord’s Cricket Ground was worth £27million.
      Wilder lives in this stunning £1 million Alabama MansionCredit: Realtor
      Wilder’s mansion boasts wondrous lake viewsCredit: Realtor
      Joshua rented this mansion when he was training for the Wladimir Klitschko fightCredit: The Mega Agency
      Joshua was able to relax after a hard day of training in this London homeCredit: The Mega Agency
      It belonged to South African diamond trader Walter Hennig, and cost AJ around £20,000 per month.
      It has been reported his property portfolio includes a £1million property in north London, as well as three homes in Watford totalling £1.5million.
      AJ also bought a £500,000 penthouse in north London, for his ex-girlfriend and JJ’s mum, Nicole Osbourne, despite them splitting.
      Wilder has stayed true to his roots, buying a £1million property in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
      Built in 2012, the 5,600 square-foot property boasts four bedrooms, four bathrooms and a two-car garage.
      Hardwood floors, an outdoor kitchen perfect for a BBQ are other ace features, as well as a lift to take you down to the basement.
      However, the home’s biggest selling point though is its location – sitting above Lake Tuscaloosa.
      The views are unparalleled, with trees surrounding the abode – ensuring his complete privacy.
      There’s even his personal tram that takes him down into the lake. Now that’s living.
      Wags
      In-demand AJ is currently single.
      Typically, he keeps his love life under wraps, although he recently flirted with talkSPORT presenter Laura Woods – describing her as his dream date.
      Wilder is engaged to reality TV star Telli SwiftCredit: JMG Lifestyle
      Swift appeared on E! show WAGS Atlanta
      He is the father to a boy called Joseph, as a result of a previous romance with pole dancing instructor Nicole Osbourne.
      Wilder is engaged to stunning reality TV star Telli Swift.
      She is a household name in her own right in America, featuring on WAGS Atlanta, which aired on E!.
      The 36-year-old beauty, who shares a daughter with Wilder called Kaorii, met Wilder at the airport in 2015.
      She has since launched the Boxing Wag Association which raises money to support children and families of retired boxers, who have fallen on hard times.
      Elaborate ring walks
      Being superstar boxers, both AJ and Wilder’s ring walks are legendary.
      For the American, it’s an elaborate costume that does the talking.
      Often, a mask clad in Swarovski crystals and crafted by Los Angeles-based designers Cosmo and Donato installs some intimidation into his opponents.
      AJ has made no secret of his love of music for his ring walks and British rappers.

      Wilder likes to do his ring walks in intimidating costumes costing over £30kCredit: Reuters
      AJ has had rappers including Stormzy and Giggs accompany him on his ring walksCredit: Reuters
      For his ring walks, the likes of Stormzy, Giggs, and Nines have all supported him before a big bout.
      Let’s see what they have in story when fight each other. More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Lamine Yamal, the 15-year-old Barcelona wonderkid who became the youngest player to play for the club this century

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      IN a flash, Lamine Yamal sniffed an opportunity to make further history.The 15-year-old had just been given a rousing reception by the Nou Camp faithful as he entered the pitch against Real Betis with the home team 4-0 up.
      Lamine Yamal became Barcelona’s youngest ever player in a century against Real BetisCredit: Getty

      But that wasn’t enough.
      As he came off the bench to become the youngest player this century to play for Barcelona manager Xavi would have whispered in the wonderkid’s ear that there was no pressure.
      However Yamal wanted to make a splash and the teenager forced a save from keeper Rui Silva, after racing onto a mistake from a Betis defender – showing his rapid speed in an instant.
      He could have had a brilliant assist too, if his team-mate had finished their chance.
      Read more on Barcelona
      At the final whistle, his coach’s words echoed what the fans saw.
      “I told him to try things and he did,” Xavi said. “At 15 years old, just imagine it… He is special and he could have even scored tonight, but [Betis goalkeeper Rui Silva] saved.
      “He played with confidence and he showed what he is about. He has no fear and bags of talent. Some of his passes in the final third were really good.”
      Barcelona is in his blood
      Born to a Moroccan father and Guinean mother, Yamal grew up in the Barcelona suburb Mataro.
      Most read in Football
      He was scouted by La Masia talent spotters at the age of just five.
      Such was his talent early on, he would play for three age groups as his development was carefully managed.
      The winger progressed through the ranks – standing out for the U16 side aged just 13.
      He tore through the youth league with ease, with the club very aware of the unique talent they had on their hands.
      Last year, he skipped an entire age group to play for the U19 side, where he continued to blossom.
      “He is always asking questions, he has a very good predisposition to evolve. You have to treat him calmly and not rush,” his coach Oscar Lopez revealed.
      By that point, Xavi deemed him good enough to train with the first team squad – integrating the generational talent into his sessions.
      In his brief cameo, Yamal almost scored and would have had an assist but for wasteful finishingCredit: AFP
      Barcelona coach Xavi believes Yamal is a special talent akin to former team-mate Lionel MessiCredit: Getty
      15-year-old Yamal has been training the Barcelona’s first team for a yearCredit: Getty
      Unfortunate comparisons
      Hype is a dangerous thing in football. The expectation and pressure has hindered many a promising player.
      But, there is a very strong belief Yamal can emulate their greatest ever player, Lionel Messi.
      Both started off on the wing and both have that ability to cut inside and fashion an opportunity out of nothing with their stronger left-foot.
      Xavi is not holding back on the kid’s qualities.
      “He’s a similar player because he has that innate talent in the final third which is difficult to find,” the Spain World Cup winner revealed when asked about the Messi comparisons.
      “Lamine doesn’t seem like a 15-year-old, he’s very mature. He’s ready [to play] and he is training well. He can mark an era at this club as part of this team.”
      Coming from a player that played with the Argentina World Cup winner, that has to be believed.
      Read More on The Sun
      Expect to hear a lot more about Yamal as he continues to progress in the game.
      Yamal has been compared to Messi because of his magical left-footCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Lionel Messi’s amazing car collection, from a £28m Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti, to a rare Pagani Zonda worth £4m

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      AS one of sport’s greatest, it’s no surprise Lionel Messi has amassed an amazing car collection.The Argentina World Cup winner, believed to be worth £480million, has a garage to envy, including a number of Audis, a very rare Pagani Zonda worth £4million and more.
      Lionel Messi boasts an amazing car collectionCredit: AFP
      The most expensive is a Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti he paid £28m
      Messi joked about buying the Ferrari on Instagram
      But the most impressive motor in his fleet is a Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti that he picked up at an auction for £28million.
      SunSport takes a look at the cars the former Barcelona man is said to own.
      Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti, £28m
      The most expensive in his collection, Messi picked up this vintage Ferrari at an auction for a whopping £28million.
      Better still, he beat rival Cristiano Ronaldo to buying it – with the Portuguese also being a serial car collector.
      read more on lionel messi
      Sharing the news on Instagram, the forward showed off a wicked sense of humour.
      He posted a picture holding a tiny miniature version of the car.
      Pagani Zonda Roadster, £4m
      Ranked as one of the most expensive and fastest cars in the world, Messi’s Pagani isn’t road legal and can only be driven on a track.
      Since 1999, Pagani has made motors – and reportedly only 40 of these babies were ever made, which is why it appreciates in price.
      Most read in Football
      Incidentally, Messi’s great rival Ronaldo drove a Pagani Huayra in a Nike ad once, jokingly crashing it.
      Messi’s Pagani Zonda Roadster isn’t road legal
      Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe, £113,000
      A high-performance SUV, this Merc is powered by 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged petrol V8 engine.
      Capable of a top speed of 174mph, it can do 0-60 mph in just 3.8 seconds.
      Messi has no excuse getting to training in a tardy fashion.
      Messi’s Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupé GLE Class is as luxury an SUV you will see on the marketCredit: Getty
      Cadillac Escalade, £70,000
      A more fitting SUV for family man Messi these days, the Escalade is the ultimate US luxury vehicle.
      Over the years, everyone from Hollywood stars to the President have been seen hopping out of an Escalade.
      Plus, with all that space, he can fit his entire family in there too.
      American SUV Cadillac Escalade is favoured by celebrities in Hollywood
      Audi R8 Spyder, £118,000
      With a horsepower of 397 to 449 kW, an ability to hit 0-62 mph in 3.3 seconds, the R8 is a work of art.
      In fact, car reviewers have regularly scored this Audi as a five out of five ride.
      Zipping around the streets of Paris has never looked more elegant.
      Messi’s Audi R8 Spyder cost around £118k
      Range Rover Vogue, £78,740
      The ideal runner to take to training, or leaving the Nou Camp, Messi loves his Range Rover Vogue.
      The Range Rover is officially the most popular SUV among the footballing elite, as well as being the pinnacle of luxury.
      Their Vogue model is especially stunning because it boasts special add-ons, including a boss Meridian Surround Sound System and a 360 degree parking aid.
      At Barcelona, Messi was seen driving a fancy Range Rover VogueCredit: Getty
      Mercedes SLS, £200,000
      Not one you’d drive on the busy streets of Paris, the SLS is definitely a keeper for the collection.
      Developed by the Mercedes-AMG division, this German stunner has a retractable rear wing which extends at a speed of 70 mph.
      ‘SLS’ stands for ‘Super Leicht Sport’ which translates to ‘Super Light Sport’. Given Messi’s nicknamed the flea, that sounds about right that he should have one of these.
      Messi’s Mercedes SLS is another collector’s item
      Audi Q7 £61,835
      Another one we’re sure that Audi must’ve given Messi a good deal on.
      Messi is clearly taking life as a family man very seriously by owning a reliable, spacious and luxurious Q7.
      Interestingly, Audi only started making SUVs from 2008. Since then, they’ve flooded the footballers’ market.
      Messi has always been fond of Audi cars and has a Q7Credit: Getty – Contributor
      Mini Copper Electric, £31,000
      With everyone going electric, Messi has added a Mini Cooper Electric to his fleet.
      It’s the cheapest car in his collection and is regularly used by Wag Antonella Roccuzzo to zip around Paris in.
      Economical, small, it’s the perfect city runner.
      Messi’s Wag Antonella Roccuzzo has been seen driving a Mini Cooper Electric around ParisCredit: Getty
      Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale, £110,000
      Built for speed demons, it’s the first Maserati GranTurismo capable of breaking the 186mph barrier with a top speed of 188 mph.
      Read More on The Sun
      A two-seater Italian masterpiece, it features a 4.7 litre, 460 HP V8 engine and glides on the road, just like Messi does on the pitch.
      It’s a real gentleman’s car.
      An Italian masterpiece, Messi also has a Maserati in his garageCredit: Xposure More

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      in Soccer

      Graeme Souness’s finest moments on Sky Sports from Pogba obsession to Mourinho duel as Liverpool legend retires

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      IT’S the end of an era.After 15 years as a pundit, Graeme Souness has left Sky Sports.
      Graeme Souness is reportedly set to leave his role at Sky Sports at the end of the seasonCredit: Getty
      The fiery Scot, 69, announced the decision as he held back tears following Liverpool’s thrilling 4-3 win over Tottenham on Sunday.
      Speaking about hanging up the microphone, he said: “I’m going to miss you guys, the guys behind the scenes, our makeup girl, I’ll miss you all.
      “You know, for me, I decided that football management wasn’t for me anymore. I had the wrong temperament for it, the wrong personality.
      “And then I was given the opportunity to do this and it’s been magnificent. It’s just been the most fantastic time for me, because I love football, I care about football and I worry about it going forward.
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      “But in Sky’s hands, it’s in good hands, safe hands, and I think over the years we’ve created a Premier League with great detail and I think we look after football very well.
      “But for me personally, I’ve got the buzz of live football coming to some fantastic games and some fantastic stadiums and some great events.
      “I think I owe 100 apologies to people, but we haven’t got time for that.
      “I think people at home obviously don’t always agree with us, but it’s been great guys it really has.
      “And it’s great right now to be amongst friends and nothing goes on forever, but I’ve got a lot of things coming up, I’m involved in my DEBRA charity and on the 27th of this month I’ll announce the challenge I’m getting involved in.
      “But it’s been great so thank you to everyone.”
      Over the years, Souness has provided much hilarity in the studio with his cutting criticism and honesty – look away if you are Paul Pogba and Jack Grealish.
      And just like his tackling in his hey day, he’s not afraid to pull any punches. Here are his best moments.
      The Pogba affair
      Souness seemingly always had a bee in his bonnet about Pogba.
      But, even though he drew Jamie Redknapp and Gary Neville in to heated debates about the World Cup winner, it was a moment with affable Micah Richards that was most surprising.
      It came during a discussion on old comments made by Pogba’s former agent Mino Raiola about the Frenchman’s future at Man Utd. The playmaker would, of course, get his move in the end.
      Most read in Football
      But the pair spoke over each other and gesticulated furiously as they tried to make their points – while Souness even turned his back at one point.
      Richards suggested Raiola had made comments without Pogba’s say-so but ex-Liverpool man Souness was having none of it.
      He blasted: “Not a chance, not a chance. He’s echoing the thoughts of the player.”
      Souness wasn’t having Micah Richards comments about Paul Pogba
      Fiery Scot Souness turned his back on his fellow pundit
      Grealish ain’t all that
      “He’s a good player, not a great player,” Souness has said of Man City’s £100million man Jack Grealish.
      For Graeme, the former Aston Villa playmaker had yet to do it for Pep Guardiola’s side.
      And, during his punditry, he let everyone know it.
      Grealish hit back at those comments while away on England duty, by insisting: “I don’t know what his problem is, he always criticises me.”
      Amusingly, Souness retorted on talkSPORT: “I’d love a night out with him.
      “I’m not sure I could stay with him but I think I would enjoy a night out with him.”
      Grealish has seemingly taken him up on his offer. He wrote on social media, “🤣🤣 let’s do it!! As long as I can bring Pogba as a +1.”
      Jack Grealish has been Souness’s recent targetCredit: Rex
      A case for the defence
      Gary Neville is used to getting his point across when it comes to his beloved Manchester United.
      But Souness didn’t agree with an assessment that former striker Cristiano Ronaldo needed support up front.
      No, the European Cup winner slammed the club’s defence instead.
      Neville said: “The biggest problem United actually have pre-dates Ronaldo. And for me it’s not a Pogba issue either.”
      Souness interjected: “You had to throw him into the mix as well.”
      But Neville carried on: “We can point towards two players, no goals is a mentality issue in a club, it’s a mentality issue in general.
      “United have had just one clean sheet in the last 20 game across all competitions.
      “They’ve conceded 31 goals to Chelsea’s 12, Liverpool’s 16 and Manchester City’s 21.”
      But Souness cut in again and added: “That’s not about having a focal point. That’s not the issue.
      “The issue is you’re too vulnerable.”
      Gary Neville and Graeme Souness got into a heated discussion about Man Utd’s defenceCredit: Sky Sports
      Gary Neville was adamant United’s problems remained upfront and was riled by SounessCredit: Sky Sports
      Neville attempted to diffuse the rising tensions and said: “We’re talking about two different things here, Graeme.”
      But Liverpool legend Souness would not stop. He continued: “It’s not about having a focal point. That’s not the issue.”
      Don’t interrupt him
      North London derby day in 2018, and Arsenal have drawn at home to Spurs 1-1.
      Alongside Souness in the studio is Gunners legend Thierry Henry, who begins with his assessment of the game.
      Henry makes his point about Arsenal stars, their injuries and how unfortunate they’ve been.
      Souness, though, had other ideas. “Arsenal have a lot of players that run with the ball,” he said.
      “That would lend to the idea of stretching more, dribbling with the ball more than anyone else…”
      Souness didn’t like it when Thierry Henry interrupted himCredit: Getty
      Before he can finish, he’s interrupted by Henry – to which Souness barks “I’m talking” at him.
      It was worth noting a season earlier, Souness was interrupted by Gary Neville – also during an Arsenal game at Man City – and gave him a death stare.
      But he got his own back…
      Fed up of being interrupted, Souness got his own back on fellow Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher last season.
      It started with a debate about Romelu Lukaku’s infamous interview on Sky Sport Italy, when the Belgium striker revealed he wanted to return to Inter Milan.
      Souness felt he should have got more than just being left out of the line up for an important televised game by boss Thomas Tuchel.
      Carragher did his best to defend Lukaku, saying he didn’t say he wanted to leave Chelsea.
      Souness interjected, “No, he did in as many words.”

      The interjection alone spun Carragher’s mind, who pulled a hilarious face at the camera – that’s soon become a meme.
      Beef with Mourinho
      The Special One and Graeme clashed over Man Utd’s playing style, as well as fixture congestion.
      “I have seen in the football media that certain pundits cannot understand why our players are tired,” Mourinho moaned his programme notes.
      “A pundit is not honest if they cannot forget their colours or if they try to hide the truth from their audience. It’s not my fault if their managerial career was very poor.”
      But Souness hit back after they beat Ajax in the Europa League final.
      “They have turned up in Stockholm, and dug out a result playing the kind of football that is not Manchester United, that’s my biggest beef with them,” he said.
      “They don’t attempt to get on the ball, and don’t play enough football for me. If you’re one of the big clubs in the world, which they obviously are, you have to play better football.
      “They won’t win the big trophies playing like that, against the better teams they won’t win the big trophies. You won’t win our league playing like that. They don’t play enough football.”
      Souness later said that the only reason Man Utd went with Mourinho was because rivals Man City had Pep Guardiola, and the Red Devils needed a big name manager.
      Jose Mourinho celebrates with the Europa League trophyCredit: Getty – Contributor
      ‘Why are you looking at me like that?’
      It’s not just fellow pundits who have faced Souness’s wrath.
      In 2019, Liverpool drew 0-0 against Manchester United at Old Trafford – in what many perceived as a flat performance.
      But, the former Anfield hero thought the Reds played well, when asked by host David Jones, and dominated possession.
      With the camera zoomed in on Souness, it’s impossible to see what Jones did to incur such a confrontation.
      But as Souness contined to make his point, he all of a sudden said: “Why are you look at me like that? Are you not agreeing with me?”
      Graeme Souness on Sky’s Super Sunday

      As the camera panned out, Jones looked around at the fellow pundits and said, “I just wonder if they agree with you.”
      Read More on The Sun
      “It was just the way you looked,” Souness added.
      How he will be missed. More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Tottenham star Son Heung-min’s amazing £1.5million car collection, including ultra-rare £1m Ferrari LaFerrari

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      SON HEUNG-MIN is not the sort of player you would associate with spending a load of dosh on one of the world’s most exclusive cars.The Tottenham hero, 30, is unassuming and usually happy to let his boots do the talking.
      Heung-min Son has built up an amazing £1.5million car collection

      Son stops in his Ferrari LaFerrari to sign a shirt for a fan
      Only 499 of the Ferrari supercars were made and potential purchasers must meet strict criteriaCredit: Alamy
      But the £192,000-a-week forward has a fleet of motors worth a staggering £1.5million.
      And pride of place in his garage in North London is a rare supercar available to just a few people.Ferrari LaFerrari
      Only 499 of these incredible cars have been made – and Son has one of them.
      But he ditched the usual red for black because Spurs told him he could not own a red one due to their rivalry with Arsenal.
      Worth around £1,150,000, even a Premier League footballer earning top whack would have to save up for a while to be able to afford it.
      The most powerful street-legal supercar the Italian manufacturer has produced, buyers must fit in with the Ferrari brand.
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      That means that, to purchase one, they must previously have owned a Ferrari – with some reports claiming potential buyers won’t be considered unless they have had FIVE Ferraris in their life.
      Son’s black model does 0-60mph in 2.9 secs and boasts a 6.3-litre V12 engine, electrically assisted by the HY-KERS system to deliver a total power output of 950bhp, with a top speed of 227mph.
      Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has one sitting at home as well.
      Audi R8 Coupe
      The South Korea star was spotted with ex-girlfriend Minah, a pop sensation in their native country, getting behind the wheel of his white R8 in 2014.
      Son is the proud owner of a sleek Audi R8Credit: Handout
      Starting at £112,520 for the most basic model, Son is almost certain to have added a few luxuries to his.
      The 5.2L V10 engine packs an almighty punch and the sleek design turns heads – if you’re quick enough to see it whizz past when it does 0-60mph in 3.2 secs.Maserati Levante
      Son is the proud owner of Maserati’s first SUV, which has a starting price of £60,000.
      But there’s a catch.
      The Spurs star poses with his Maserati Levante
      Son is so popular in his home country that he was actually given the model by the Italian manufacturer as a gift.
      A statement from Korea’s official Maserati importer said they gifted the ex-Leverkusen man the motor because it “might be the most matching vehicle to Son, who can play with delicacy and unstoppable power”.
      Hard to argue with that.
      Although it is not the only 4×4 Son has…Range Rover
      The staple of the Premier League footballers’ diet, Son would not miss out on the chance to land a Range Rover.
      He has done his up in a classy matte black finish – a custom touch that also sees the tailgate script, grille and side vents finished in gloss black.
      The Evoque model starts at around £31,000.
      Though Son’s version likely cost a lot more with the extras he has, which include red seats and red trim on the steering wheel.
      Son keeps up the traditions of Premier League footballers by owning a Range RoverCredit: The Sun
      Son waves from the front seat of his 4x4Credit: Instagram
      Bentley Continental GT
      Another favourite of footballers, Son forked out around £160,000 for this supercar.
      It comes packing a 6L twin-turbocharged W12 engine which sees it do 0-60mph in 4.3 secs and can reach 198mph top speed – which could come in handy when he’s running late for training.
      Son owns a Bentley Continental GT More

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      in Soccer

      Sheikh Mansour is worth £17billion, the Man City owner boasts a mega yacht worth £400m and is pals with Leo DiCaprio

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      SHEIKH Mansour hasn’t a worry in the world…The Manchester City owner has amassed a £17 billion fortune, mainly thanks to his booming International Petroleum Investment Company.
      Sheikh Mansour has seen his Manchester City investment reap the rewardsCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      He’s deputy Prime Minister of his native United Arab Emirates, minister of presidential affairs, as well as member of the ruling family of Abu Dhabi.
      The 52-year-old Sheikh is even buddies with Richard Branson, owning a large stake in the British entrepreneur’s Virgin Galactic spaceship company.
      And if that’s not enough, his Premier League team are bossing English football at the moment.
      Sheikh Mansour has given Man City boss Pep Guardiola a fortune to investCredit: PA:Press Association
      But who is Mansour and what does he spend his money on?
      Let us invite you into his world of wealth, including a £400m yacht he let one of Hollywood’s biggest movie stars borrow.His football teams…
      When you’re a billionaire, buying into sports franchises is the done thing.
      In 2008, Mansour bought Man City with his Abu Dhabi United Group for £210m and has ensured The Citizens buy the best talent in the world.
      Sheikh Mansour bought Man City in 2008 for £210mCredit: Manchester City FC – Getty
      But the Sheikh is a shrewd businessman and doesn’t throw his money away that easy.
      In fact, the day City signed Gareth Barry for £12m from Aston Villa, he also made a $1.4bn profit selling a stake in Barclays he bought months earlier.
      Mansour launched a second team in the MLS in New York in 2013, luring Frank Lampard and David Villa to New York City F.C.
      And he expanded his City Football Group portfolio and owns stakes in clubs in the United States, Australia, India, Japan, Spain, Uruguay, China, Belgium and France.
      Frank Lampard was lured to New York City by Sheikh Mansour’s moneyCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Mansour is chairman of Al Jazira who played against Real Madrid in the World Club CupCredit: EPA
      The yacht…
      Looking at Mansour’s prized yacht is enough to make your eyes water… with tears of joy and wonder.
      The Topaz super yacht is said to be worth £400mCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The fifth largest super yacht in the world, it’s an absolute BEAST. Named Topaz, the vessel is a 482ft and was custom-built in Germany by Lurssen Yachts and designed by Tim Heywood in 2012.
      It has 8 floors, two helipads, three swimming pools, a gym, jacuzzi and even a cinema.
      The Topaz boasts two helipads, three swimming pools and a cinemaCredit: Splash News
      Right before Brazil kicked off their 2014 World Cup campaign, Leo DiCaprio was spotted hosting a party for 21 of his pals on the Topaz.
      Mansour loaned it to the Oscar-winning actor who soaked up the carnival atmosphere in Sao Paulo with his mates.
      Now, that’s not a bad number to have on speed-dial.
      Leo DiCaprio partied on the Topaz during the 2014 World CupCredit: Getty – Contributor
      It was also once reported that Mansour had to refuel his yacht when he docked at Marmaris port in Turkey.
      It was said to have cost him £380,000 to fill up the 730,000 litre tank, and that took 5 hours!His cars…
      Mansour owns a 5 per cent stake in Ferrari, which he bought in 2005 with the idea of bringing Formula One to the United Arab Emirates.
      Mansour owns a five per cent stake in Ferrari, as well as this EnzoCredit: 4WheelsofLux
      His £91m investment worked, and ever since 2009 the world’s leading drivers have gone to Abu Dhabi for their annual Grand Prix.
      Alongside Ferrari, Mansour has a 9.1 percent stake in Daimler AG (they own Mercedes).
      Sheikh’s Mercedes SLR-McLaren is worth £350kCredit: 4WheelsofLux
      He’s also owned a fleet of the world’s most astonishing cars.
      In his collection he’s had a Mercedes SLR-McLaren (£350k), a Lamborghini Reventon (£840k) and a Ferrari Enzo (£2.5m).
      Like Floyd Mayweather, Mansour also loves Bugatti Veyron and has 5 of them starting with a value of £1.1m.
      Like Floyd Mayweather Sheikh Mansour loves a Bugatti Veyron super carCredit: 4WheelsofLux
      To top off his exquisite collection, he has a Porsche 911 GT1, which is worth around £3 million.
      After all, Mr. Mansour is a petrol head…
      Sheikh Mansour owns a Porsche worth around £3mCredit: 4WheelsofLux
      The mansions…
      Being a member of the Abu Dhabi royal family allows you certain privileges, including your own palace.
      Sheikh Mansour is part of the Al Nahyan family, who have a huge residence in the city.
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      Private functions for political leaders – including Barack Obama – have been organised there.
      Back in 2016, Mansour reportedly snapped up a £42m 20,000 acre Spanish villa in south west Spain.
      Sheikh Mansour reportedly snapped a Spanish Villa for £42m
      The private property, called Los Quintos de San Martin, is near the small village of Valencia de las Torres.
      Mansour and his family have been known to stay at the hotel they own called The Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi.
      Emirates Palace has been universally described as the best hotel in the worldCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Opened in 2005 for a cost of £2.2m, it’s been described as the world’s only real seven-star hotel.
      There are 394 rooms, including 92 suites and 22 residential suits, which are mostly furnished in gold and marble.
      Sheikh Mansour has his own penthouse suite in the Emirates Palace
      Mansour is said to take advantage of the penthouse floor, which boasts 6 Rulers’ Suites that are reserved exclusively for dignitaries.
      Fun fact; the Fast and Furious 7 film was partly shot there too.
      The rooms in the Emirates Palace boast real gold features and lots of marble
      His other interests…
      Nice homes, cars, hotels and football aren’t the only things that make Mansour tick.
      Educated at Santa Barbara College in California, USA, he has investments in around 50 companies worldwide.
      Sheikh Mansour owns shares in Virgin Galactic and is pals with Richard BransonCredit: AFP – Getty
      One of his ventures includes the commercial spacecraft group, Virgin Galactic with Richard Branson.
      He is also chairman of the Emirates Horse Racing Authority, boss of Sky News Arabia and patron of the Zayed Annual Half Marathon.
      Sheikh Mansour could launch a football team in spaceCredit: PA:Press Association
      Getting personal…
      The Sheikh keeps his personal life… well, personal.
      But we do know he has two wives and 6 children.
      He first married Sheikha Alia bint Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed in the mid-1990s. They had one son together.
      Mansour then married Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, his second cousin once removed.
      She’s a powerful woman in her own right, being president of the Dubai Women Establishment.
      She has two daughters and three sons by Mansour.
      And one more thing…
      Manchester City look safe with Sheikh Mansour at the helmCredit: AFP or licensors
      If you think having around £17bn in your bank account isn’t bad – wait till you hear how much he stands to inherit.
      The Al Nahyan family’s wealth is believed to be worth somewhere in the region of £560bn.
      Sheikh Mansour stands to inherit a fortune estimated at around £560bnCredit: PA:Press Association
      However, that said, it’s an inheritance he must share with his five brothers.
      But you have to imagine – with Mansour at the helm – Man City’s future certainly looks rosy. More

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      Biggest bromances in football, including Rice and Mount and Messi’s emotional note when Suarez left Barcelona

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      THESE are the ballers who became bezzies.While there are relationships in any team, from centre-back partnerships to strike duos, this lot took things much further.
      Childhood friends Mason Mount and Declan Rice have emerged as one of football’s biggest bromancesCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Here, SunSport rounds up football’s biggest mates.Messi & Suarez
      In the summer of 2020, Uruguay ace Luis Suarez said an emotional goodbye to his team-mates and cleared out his locker in the dressing room after six seasons at the Nou Camp.
      He was joined by an emotional Leo Messi, who slammed the club’s treatment of his pal in the past, to wish Suarez all the best at rivals Atletico Madrid.
      Messi even took time to share a snap of the pair together one final time in the dressing room, and you can bet there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
      He captioned the photo: “I was already getting the idea but today I entered the locker room and the card really fell.
      “How difficult it is going to be not to continue sharing the day to day with you, both on the pitch and outside. We will miss you so much. It was many years, many mates, lunches, dinners … Many things that will never be forgotten, every day together.
      “It will be strange to see you with another shirt and much more to face you. You deserved to be fired as what you are: one of the most important players in the club’s history, achieving important things both as a group and individually.
      Lionel Messi poses with Luis Suarez in the Nou Camp dressing room one final timeCredit: Instagram
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      “And not to get kicked out like they did. But the truth is that at this point nothing surprises me.
      “I wish you all the best in this new challenge. I love you very much, I love you very much. See you soon friend.”
      Later that summer Messi shocked the world by announcing he wanted to quit the club himself. Eventually he stayed, but left a year later anyway when Barcelona could not afford to pay his wages.
      Lingard & Rashford
      FROM quirky handshakes to holiday snaps, the two stars regularly give the world an insight into their bond through social media.
      Jesse Lingard once said he saw Marcus Rashford, five years his junior, as a little brother in the United squad, before moving on to Nottingham Forest.
      Jesse Lingard sees Marcus Rashford as like his little brother and nicknamed him ‘beansprouts’Credit: Instagram @marcusrashford
      He has nicknamed him ‘beansprouts’ and says their friendship stemmed from defending him during a feisty Manchester derby in 2016.
      “He got into a little bit of beef and I had to be there for him, and from then it’s carried on and I’ll always be there for him no matter what,” Lingard said.Lovren & Salah
      FOR Dejan Lovren and Mohamed Salah, there was an instant connection.
      When Salah arrived at Liverpool in 2017, the two men discussed their tough upbringings and, from there, they were virtually inseparable.
      Lovren revealed: “From day one, we felt this connection.
      Dejan Lovren and Mohamed Salah had an instant connection at LiverpoolCredit: PA:Press Association
      “We have been talking a lot, we were talking about private things and we have a similar background, a tough life from the beginning.
      “And then with his normality, how he can talk to you and when you see how he thinks… we are good friends, coffee, jokes!”
      Lovren now plays for Lyon while Salah is still starring at Anfield.Alli & Dier
      WHEN Dele Alli signed for Tottenham from Milton Keynes Dons in 2015, he quickly bonded with his fellow newbie.
      Eric Dier had signed from Portuguese side Sporting Lisbon and the two quickly formed a friendship that culminated in appearing alongside each other on the Gogglebox sofa.
      Dele Alli and Eric Dier became close mates at Tottenham and ended up on Gogglebox togetherCredit: Channel 4
      The Channel 4 programme gave fans an insight into their friendship as the pair bickered over a cuppa on telly.
      But they’re not afraid to talk about their bond either, with Dele once saying: “Love’s a strong word but we do really like each other.”
      Dier has become a first team regular at Spurs, while Alli was sold to Everton. He has since tried to rebuild his career on loan in Turkey.Pogba & Lukaku
      IF it wasn’t for ‘Agent Paul Pogba’, Romelu Lukaku wouldn’t have ended up at Manchester United.
      In the summer of 2017, when the Belgian was choosing between a transfer to Chelsea and United, he was holidaying with Pogba in an LA mansion.
      There was little doubt where he would end up.
      Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku holidayed together in LA before the Belgian signed for Man United
      After that, the two superstars were virtually inseparable, hanging out, playing basketball and sharing private jets.
      The bromance was brought to an end in 2019 when Lukaku switched to Inter Milan. Pogba has since left the Red Devils for Juventus, while Lukaku is back on loan with Inter after flopping at Chelsea. Perhaps they can enjoy a nice Italian together at least now.
      Aubameyang & Lacazette
      THEY were always Gunner be mates.
      Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang signed for Arsenal in January 2018 and immediately struck up a friendship with fellow striker Alexandre Lacazette.
      Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang formed a partnership both on and off the pitch at ArsenalCredit: Reuters
      Aubameyang remembers: “I came to Arsenal and there he was. It was good to see him. It was love at first sight!”
      Their bond off the pitch helped them on it, with the duo helping the club win the FA Cup in 2020.
      However, the best buds have since moved.
      Aubameyang was first to go, after a fallout with manager Mikel Arteta, to Barcelona. He since moved to Chelsea.
      Lacazette returned to Lyon and is flying this season, even without his close pal at hand.
      Mount & Rice
      IT was in Chelsea’s academy, at the age of seven, that Mason Mount and Declan Rice began their friendship.
      Both families holidayed together and travelled Europe, watching the boys play for the Blues, and their bond endured Chelsea’s decision to release Rice at the age of 14 – which made Mount’s mum cry.
      Childhood mates Rice and Mount have gone on holiday together for many yearsCredit: https://www.instagram.com/masonmount10/?hl=en
      Now the two midfielders have been able to team up again while playing for their country after being selected by Gareth Southgate.
      And Mount provided the most hilarious video when he surprised a sleeping Rice while they were on holiday together.
      Kolasinac & Ozil
      IF any star has proved their bezzie loyalty it’s Sead Kolasinac to Mesut Ozil.
      In the face of knife-wielding moped thugs, Kolasinac leapt from Ozil’s car and defended his pal with whom he had formed a strong bond.
      Sead Kolasinac and Mesut Ozil became best buds at Arsenal while their wives have connected tooCredit: Instagram/ m10_officia
      Sead Kolasinac fought off moped muggers armed with a knifeCredit: Enterprise News and Pictures
      German Ozil vowed to take Kolasinac under his wing when he arrived at Arsenal in 2017, and since then the two men — and their wives — have become best friends.
      In the summer of 2019, both couples got married and attended each other’s wedding while the two men dyed their hair blonde after losing a bet.
      Ozil retired from the game this year, after a spell in Turkey. Kolasinac was sold to Marseille.
      Fabregas & Suarez & Messi
      IT is the friendship group football fans would dream to be a part of.
      Messi, Suarez and Cesc Fabregas, who all met at Barcelona, have formed a small clique of some of the world’s greatest footballing talent.
      Lionel Messi, Cesc Fabregas, Luis Suarez and their wives have become close friends and regularly holiday togetherCredit: Instagram @antonelaroccuzzo
      With their respective partners ⁠— Antonella Roccuzzo, Sofia Balbi and Daniella Semaan ⁠— all friends as well, the group regularly holiday together in giant luxury villas and yachts.
      There was even a suggestion in 2017 that the group racked up a £32,630 bill during a dinner on the Spanish island of Ibiza.Firmino & Coutinho
      THEIR time together at Anfield was relatively short but extremely sweet.
      Fellow Brazilians Roberto Firmino and Philippe Coutinho formed a formidable partnership in Jurgen Klopp’s fierce attack.
      Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino formed a close bond while at Liverpool togetherCredit: Instagram, @roberto_firmino
      So it came as a blow to Firmino when Coutinho made the £142million switch to Barcelona in January 2018.
      Firmino said: “He made his decision to join Barcelona, but every time we play for the Seleção we have a chat and maintain that friendship.
      “He’s an exceptional guy – one of the best friends football has given me.”
      Coutinho returned to the Premier League with Aston Villa, so the pair rekindled their bromance.
      However, with Firmino leaving Anfield this summer, expect an emotional goodbye.
      Nolan & Carroll
      WHEN Andy Carroll was bailed for an assault charge in 2010, he turned to his best mate Kevin Nolan.
      Having become close friends at Newcastle, Nolan allowed his pal to live with his family on two conditions — reading Peppa Pig to his kids and being in bed by 11pm!
      Kevin Nolan and Andy Carroll are such good mates that Nolan let Carroll live with himCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      But it still came as some surprise when the former Liverpool striker named Nolan in his dream 5-a-side team alongside superstars such as Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez.
      Nolan responded by saying: “Well, me and Andy are mates so he’s looking after his mucker!”And when bromances go bad… Owen and Shearer
      A lethal strike partnership, the darlings of England’s first-team, whose relationship spiralled from good mates to a public spat.
      Michael Owen’s autobiography Reboot: My Life lifted the lid on a bitter feud that began during his time at Newcastle.
      The two English heavyweights went toe-to-toe on Twitter after Owen’s book claimed Alan Shearer had questioned his professionalism at St. James’ Park.
      Shearer took aim at Owen by highlighting his hefty wages at Newcastle before Owen shot back by questioning Shearer’s loyalty to Newcastle.
      Let’s hope the other bezzies in this list aren’t slinging mud at each other in ten years’ time.
      Alan Shearer and Michael Owen’s friendship has fallen apart and spiralled into a public spatCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd More

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      in Soccer

      Footballers strange contract demands, from no space travel to weight clauses and free moves for Catalan independence

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      PLAYERS are valuable commodities.So when they thrash out contracts with the world’s biggest clubs, it’s important to get everything right and nothing’s left to chance.
      Footballers like Lionel Messi reportedly have bizarre clauses written into their contractsCredit: Getty
      But there are times when stipulations are put in place by player and club to protect their interests, to let them fulfil their hobbies, or managers just don’t trust them.
      SunSport looks back at the wackiest clauses added by players and clubs.Messi business
      Back in 2020, with Lionel Messi’s future STILL up in the air before his free transfer move to Paris Saint-Germain, talk of what he would look for in his new contract away from Barcelona began to surface.
      Some of the clauses in that deal were leaked by El Mundo.
      They included an agreement to learn how to speak Catalan, he must ‘adopt an adequate personal conduct and pace of life’ and not engage in doping, and if Catalonia became its own country he could leave on a free transfer.
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      Lew the outdoor adventurer
      When Robert Lewandowski was running down his contract at Borussia Dortmund both Bayern Munich and Real Madrid were jostling for his signature.
      And in leaked documents, Real Madrid’s offer seemed far more lucrative.
      Alongside a £166,000-per-week deal and a £10m signing-on fee were several requests they didn’t want daredevil Lewandowski to do while he was their property.
      Skiing, paragliding, climbing, going on a motorboat and even riding a motorbike were big ‘no-nos’ for Madrid’s hierarchy… so that’s why signed for Bayern instead.
      Robert Lewandowski was able to continue his outdoor adventures at Bayern MunichCredit: Getty
      Reina toyed with
      When negotiating a contract, it’s important to be 100 per cent clear about what is being stipulated.
      When German forward Giuseppe Reina moved to Arminia Bielefeld in 1996, he demanded the club build him a house for every year of his contract.
      The club accepted.
      However, Reina didn’t specify what size he required.
      And Arminia provided him with a house made of Lego for the next three years.
      Giuseppe Reina in action for Arminia Bielefeld, who only joined under strict circumstances
      Redondo locked out
      Former Real Madrid and AC Milan midfielder Fernando Redondo was excluded from Argentina’s 1998 World Cup squad for a bizarre reason.
      Manager Daniel Passarella had refused to pick homosexuals or players with earrings and long hair.
      Redondo was ‘guilty’ of the latter.
      He said: “I was in great form. But Passarella had particular ideas about discipline and wanted me to have my hair cut.
      “I didn’t see what that had to do with playing football so I said no.”
      Fernando Redondo’s long hair cost him his international career
      Cooking up a treat
      Congolese midfielder Rolf-Christel Guie-Mien moved from Karlsruher to Eintracht Frankfurt in 1999.
      However, he had one simple request: that his new club pay for his wife to have cooking lessons.
      We’re not sure Mrs Guie-Mien took too kindly to this demand.
      She was not available for comment at the time.
      Rolf-Christel Guie-Mien made it very clear to his wife he kitchen skills needed improvement
      Brought down to Earth
      Swede Stefan Schwarz moved to Sunderland in 1999 — but the Wearsiders had one stipulation the former Arsenal man had to adhere to.
      Schwarz was told that any potential flights into space would not be tolerated.
      The Black Cats chief exec John Flicking said at the time: “One of Schwarz’s advisers has, indeed, got one of the places on the commercial flights [into space, due to take place in 2002].
      “And we were worried that he may wish to take Stefan along with him. So we thought we’d better get things tied up now rather than at the time of the flight.”
      In fact, rather than managing to go up, his career ended when Sunderland went down in 2003.
      Stefan Schwarz is presented as a Sunderland player, alongside Peter Reid in 1999
      Razor weighed down
      Former Premier League and England defender Neil Ruddock once admitted to eating 212 steak and kidney pies every year.
      And Crystal Palace were advised Razor did come with some extra baggage when they signed him on a free in 2000.
      Ex-Eagles chairman Simon Jordan wrote in his autobiography: “On approaching West Ham I discovered he was a free transfer, although he did have a weighty salary — which was not the only weighty thing about him.
      “Harry Redknapp, the West Ham manager at the time, told me to put in a weight clause.
      “So I decided to put a 10 per cent penalty on the contract we were proposing to offer him if he was over the recommended weight of 99.8kg, which by the way was still frigging huge.”
      Ruddock’s Palace debut was allegedly delayed because the club couldn’t find a pair of shorts big enough for him.
      Neil Ruddock has never been one of the slimmest footballers
      Driving a Honda
      Japanese legend Keisuke Honda joined Botafogo in January 2020.
      But moving to Brazil’s crime-ridden city of Rio de Janeiro had the midfielder fearing for his safety.
      So he stipulated he would need an ARMOURED VEHICLE as part of the deal.
      More incredibly, Botafogo agreed.
      But his stay in South America did not last long and the now 36-year-old left the same year for Azerbaijan.
      Honda ended his career in Lithuania – and is now coach of Cambodia’s U23s.
      Keisuke Honda signed for Brazilian side Botafogo – but only after an unusual request was grantedCredit: AFP or licensors More