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      What happened to the ‘Next Messis’, from youngest LaLiga star Romero to ex-Man City ace Patrick Roberts

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      MORE than a dozen players have been dubbed the ‘Next Messi’ over the years.But none have ever reached the heights scaled by PSG and Argentina World Cup winner Lionel Messi… not even close.
      The ‘Next Messis’ from all around the world
      Luka Romero, the ‘Mexican Messi’, made his debut for Mallorca age 15Credit: EPA
      In 2020, the ‘Mexican Messi’ (we’ve had one before in Diego Lainez) Luka Romero made LaLiga history.
      At just 15, the diminutive teen came on as a sub against Real Madrid in June 2020 and became the youngest player to play in the Spanish top-flight, also showing fans what the fuss is all about with some neat touches, before signing for Lazio in 2021.
      While, Arsenal were once linked with what was then the latest ‘Next Messi’ – Iranian Bayer Leverkusen star Sardar Azmoun.
      In the summer of 2019, Manchester United were said to be monitoring Trabzonspor teenager Abdulkadir Omur, the ‘Turkish Messi’.
      The world map has almost been filled in with different ‘Next Messis’ from around the globe.
      From Peru to South Africa and Japan to Iran, two dozen countries have produced their own version of the little genius.
      Even Scotland had one while England have two.
      Here’s how they got on…
      Lionel Messi is still arguably the best player in the worldCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The English Messi – Patrick Roberts
      Burst on to the scene as a teenager at Fulham and after some impressive performances as a teenager, Man City splashed £12million on him.
      He barely got into the City side before a long loan spell at Celtic.
      Although he won seven trophies under Brendan Rodgers, Roberts had a number of injury issues and did not hit the heights expected of him.
      Another loan spell to Girona last season didn’t really work out – while stints at Norwich and Middlesbrough last term have been uninspiring.
      Roberts went on loan at Derby, who narrowly avoided relegation to League One with a thrilling 3-3 draw on the final day of the Championship season.
      Now, he’s at League One side Sunderland.
      Mini Messi – Fran Kirby
      One of the players most deserving of the tag, the England and Chelsea star is one of the biggest stars in the women’s game.
      Kirby, who stands at just 5ft 2in, is a former PFA and FWA player of the year and has been a vital player in all of the Lionesses’ recent success, including winning the Euros.
      In 2021, Kirby was voted the 10th best player in the world in the Ballon d’Or list.
      England star Fran Kirby has been dubbed Mini Messi – and is one of the best players in the women’s gameCredit: PA:Press Association
      Scottish Messi – Ryan Gauld
      Gauld was 17 when he made his debut for Dundee United and began tearing it up in Scotland, helping The Terrors reach the Scottish Cup final in 2014.
      After being shortlisted for Young Player of the Year, Gauld was snapped up by Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon.
      But Gauld only made two league appearances for Sporting, all in 2014 and early 2015, and went on four unsuccessful loan spells.
      He’s now at MLS side Vancouver Whitecaps FC, after a spell at Portuguese second tier side Farense.
      Swiss Messi – Xherdan Shaqiri
      The Messi comparisons are definitely a step too far but Shaqiri – formerly of Liverpool – is quite obviously a talent good enough for most teams in the world.
      He has played at some of the biggest clubs and scored at two World Cups and the European Championship.
      Injuries limited his impact at the Reds, and he moved to Lyon before plying his trade in the MLS with Chicago Fire.
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      Egyptian Messi – Mohamed Salah
      Speaking of whom, there was a time when Salah being compared to Messi would have been impossible to imagine… namely at Chelsea.
      Now thriving at Liverpool, the Egyptian king isn’t quite at Messi’s level – but he’s pretty damn close.
      This was a tag from when the forward was still at Basel and, in all honesty, it’s quite fair.
      Salah is now one of the best players in the world and will soon have players being dubbed the ‘Next Salah’.
      Mohamed Salah is now at the level were other players are dubbed the ‘Next Salah’Credit: AFP or licensors
      Catalan Messi – Gerard Deulofeu
      Certainly has enough natural talent to earn comparisons to one of the best ever.
      But the winger, now at Udinese following stints at Everton and Watford, does not have the consistency or work rate to compare himself to Messi.
      Deulofeu struggled in two spells at Barca but was instrumental to the Hornets getting to the FA Cup final in 2019.
      German Messi – Marko Marin
      Arrived at Chelsea in 2012 with a massive reputation but – like so many other Blues youngsters – never got a fair chance at Stamford Bridge.
      Was sent on four loan spells in three seasons and managed just six Premier League games in West London.
      Marin has since won trophies in Greece, Spain and Serbia before retiring last year while at Hungarian side Ferencvarosi.
      Croatian Messi – Alen Halilovic
      Another Barcelona graduate, the diminutive Croatian international has the technique but has struggled with the physicality of senior football.
      Loan spells at Sporting Gijon have brought little success.
      He is currently at Croatian club HNK Rijeka, after spells at Championship side Reading and AC Milan, where he failed to play a single Serie A game. Dutch side Heerenveen, Standard Liege, and Birmingham also feature on his CV.
      Norwegian Messi – Martin Odegaard
      One of the most hyped teenagers in Europe, the Norwegian jumped from Stromsgodset to Real Madrid in 2015.
      He initially struggled to live up to the hype and a two-year loan spell at Heerenveen brought inconsistent play.
      But last season on loan at Real Sociedad, Odegaard was excellent – putting himself in the frame to break back into the Madrid first-team.
      The Norwegian signed for Arsenal in a permanent deal in 2021, after a loan spell and his form has fired the Gunners to the top of the Premier League.
      Martin Odegaard was one of the most hyped teenage players everCredit: EPA
      Irish Messi – Alan Judge
      Definitely a tongue-in-cheek nickname, the winger earned the title while starring for Brentford for five years between 2014 and 2019.
      Judge helped the Bees reach the Championship and stay in the second tier, and was named in the PFA teams of the year in 2013 and 2016.
      He was at Ipswich, helping the Tractor Boys to ninth in League One in 2020-21, before signing for Colchester.
      Peruvian Messi – Raul Ruidiaz
      Actually nicknamed ‘Little Messi’, the Peruvian scored a mountain of goals in Peru and Mexico before moving to MLS in 2018.
      The striker has been sensational for the Seattle Sounders, winning the MLS Cup and CONCACAF Champions League.
      Kosovan Messi – Edon Zhergrova
      Edon Zhegrova became a YouTube sensation back in 2014 after compilations of the then 15-year old’s dazzling goals gained thousands of views.
      The Arsenal, PSG and Barcelona moves did not materialise, but a move to Belgium’s Standard Liege and then Genk did, where he is coming through the ranks.
      Basel then decided to take a longer look at him with an 18-month loan deal.
      The No10 played a handful of games for the club before moving to Lille.
      Indian Messi – Lallianzuala Chhangte
      The Chennaiyin winger became the youngest Indian international when he made his debut in 2015.
      But, now aged 24, the hype has died down a bit with Chhangte unable to build on that early promise.
      And he now playing for Indian side Mumbai City.
      Japanese Messi – Takefusa Kubo
      Still just 22, Kubo has the best chance of any player to live up to the moniker.
      The former FC Tokyo forward even came through the ranks at Barcelona, where he was a youth star, before returning to Japan.
      He would have stayed at La Masia but after Barca’s transfer ban he was no longer eligible to play in competitive matches, so decided to return to his homeland.
      He is the youngest player to play and score in the J.League and has been a regular in the FC Tokyo side.
      Kubo was snapped up by Real Madrid, a major coup for Los Blancos – but was quickly loaned to Mallorca before joining Getafe on a short-term deal earlier in 2021.
      Barcelona had wanted the playmaker – but were fooled into thinking he was not available until next January after an error on the Transkfermarkt website.
      Real Madrid knew the correct date his contract was up and swooped.
      Kubo, who has been brilliant in Japan’s successful World Cup campaign in Qatar, is currently at Real Sociedad after joining last summer.
      Takefusa Kubo (left) came through the ranks at Barcelona before joining Real MadridCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Greek Messi – Giannis Fetfatzidis
      The little winger never lived up to the moniker after coming through at Olympiacos.
      Has since played in Italy and Saudi Arabia, but is now at Qatari side Al-Sailiya.
      Iranian Messi – Sardar Azmoun
      A number of European clubs were interested in Azmoun a few years ago, including Arsenal, who offered £2m for the rapid forward.
      Azmoun starred in Russia for Zenit St Petersburg, where he has scored 62 times in just 104 games while winning three Russian Premier League titles.
      However, he’s now at Bayer Leverkusen – where he has scored just once across two seasons.
      Iranian Messi Azmoun has been linked to ArsenalCredit: AFP or licensors
      Indonesian Messi – Egy Maulana Vikri
      Aged just 21, Egy is already a full international having been a prodigy at youth level.
      He had scored 15 goals in 16 matches for Indonesia Under-19s, attracting attention from big clubs in Europe.
      Eventually, Maulana chose Lechia Gdansk where he also impressed for the reserves, scoring 12 goals in 14 matches in the Polish fourth tier.
      He made his full debut in 2020 and is now a 17-cap senior international for Indonesia.
      He moved to Slovenian side FK Senica, and now plays for ViOn Zlaté Moravce in the same league.
      Another Mexican Messi – Diego Lainez
      The 22-year-old has the potential to be a big star and has consistently been named as one of the players to keep an eye on in the coming years.
      The teenager is already a full international for El Tri and was signed by Real Betis for £9m in January 2019.
      This season, he was sent on loan to Primeira Liga club Braga for much-needed first team experience.
      Diego Lainez is already a full Mexican international and moved to Real Betis for £9mCredit: Getty – Contributor
      South Korean Messi – Lee Seung-woo
      Lee was once hailed as South Korea’s great hope of the future and was another graduate of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy.
      He moved to Catalonia in 2011, but managed just one appearance for Barcelona B, before moving to Hellas Verona in 2017.
      Now 25, the winger plays for South Korean side Suwon FC but became a national hero for his exploits in the Asian Games.
      Lee provided the assist for Tottenham’s Son Heung-min to score a winner – the goal also meant the Spurs man would avoid national service.
      Malaysian Messi – Faiz Nasir
      One of the smallest players in world football, Nasir stands at just 5ft.
      But there is plenty of talent in those little legs, with the Terengganu FC star scoring on his international debut.
      Nigerian Messi – Stanley Okoro
      Nicknamed ‘Little Messi’, Okoro spent time in Spain with Almeria but struggled to make a breakthrough.
      He certainly likes the nickname, however, stating: “I don’t mind when people call me Little Messi.
      “It’s a pleasant thing to be compared with the best footballer in the world – I don’t have a problem with that.”
      But having played back in his homeland of Nigeria, Okoro is now without a club.
      Thai Messi – Chanathip Songkrasin
      Songkrasin is known as ‘Messi Jay'”or just ‘Jay’ but actually took inspiration from another Argentine legend.
      His father apparently trained him with the intention of copying Diego Maradona.
      He became a fans’ favourite across Thailand for his dribbling skills, with 58 international caps so far, and now plays in Japan for Kawasake Frontale.
      South African Messi – Tebogo Tlolane
      The winger was nicknamed Messi from a young age because of his dribbling skills.
      He even managed a two week trial at Barcelona but failed to make the grade – Tlolane is now back in South Africa with Orlando Pirates. More

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      Brighton wonderkid Evan Ferguson who scored vs Arsenal was just 14 when he tormented Chelsea stars in a friendly

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      COMETH the hour, cometh the man.On the hour mark, Brighton introduced 18-year-old Evan Ferguson to proceedings against Arsenal as they attempted to find a route back into their game at the Amex.
      Evan Ferguson beats Aaron Ramsdale to the ball to score his first ever Premier League goalCredit: Reuters
      When he was 14, Ferguson impressed in a cameo against Chelsea for Irish side BohemiansCredit: Sportsfile
      Just 17 minutes later, after forcing the usually steady William Saliba into an error and shrugging the 6ft4in defender aside, he calmly slotted past England keeper Aaron Ramsdale.
      But the teenager has never had any regards for his opponent’s reputations in the past.
      As a plucky 14-year-old, Ferguson made a memorable cameo against Chelsea in a preseason friendly for Irish side Bohemians.
      Since being snapped up by Brighton in January 2021, after the Seagulls fought off Liverpool to sign the talent, the 6ft powerhouse has gone on to play eight times for the Premier League side.
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      While back in November, Ferguson made his debut for the Republic of Ireland in a 2-1 friendly defeat against Norway.
      Burst onto the scene
      It was Frank Lampard’s Chelsea that saw the whirlwind Ferguson can be firsthand.
      The focus was supposed to be on the manager – who was managing the club he loved and played for – for the first time.
      Ferguson stole the headlines though.
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      The boy, who is younger than Facebook, was introduced on the hour mark. Again. And he put the frighteners up Kurt Zouma and Davide Zappacosta.
      Leading the line on his own, he came close to scoring when a whipped shot went narrowly wide of the far post.
      He then had the awareness to dummy a pass for a team-mate to score a last-minute equaliser.
      Recalling that day to The 42, Ferguson revealed: “I think it sort of blew up a little bit. I didn’t know I was going to play, I knew I was on the bench but I didn’t know if I was going to come on or this, that or whatever. It was all sort of… Everyone knew about it at the time.”
      In 2019, Ferguson gave Chelsea a hard time in a preseason friendlyCredit: Getty
      Brighton snapped Ferguson up in 2021 – beating Liverpool to his signatureCredit: Getty
      Keeping him grounded
      With speculation rife about Premier League interest, Ferguson had to keep his feet on the ground.
      It was his dad, Barry who offered that support.
      His father was an ex-pro, who played for Coventry City, Colchester United and others.
      “He was good with me growing up, he wouldn’t put too much pressure on me, really, say ‘you have to do this or that’,” Ferguson said.
      “If I wanted anything or needed to chat to him he’d be there but I wouldn’t say there is that much pressure, I don’t think anyone really expects anything of a young kid playing in that game — if you do it, it’s more of a bonus.”
      Dad Barry Ferguson, left, has kept his son’s feet on the ground
      Ferguson is a now a full international – with two caps to his nameCredit: Getty
      Potter’s take
      Brighton made their move in – beating a host of Premier League rivals to his signature – 2021
      After making his debut in August that year as a substitute against Championship side Cardiff City in the EFL Cup second round, he scored his first goal a year later in the same competition against Forest Green Rovers.
      Following the final whistle, his former manager Graham Potter said: “He is an intelligent player for someone so young.
      “You look at him and you have to remind yourself he is only 17, so he’s got an exciting future, I think.
      “He’s level-headed and a humble guy who again wants to just play football, wants to score goals, help the team, so he has got lots of nice attributes, good movement, intelligent, so we are happy with him.”
      Now, since turning 18 just a few months ago, Ferguson has his eyes on more goals to add to his first in the Premier League against the league leading Gunners.
      “A disappointing result, obviously we wanted to win the game, but on a personal level it’s good to get the goal,” he told Brighton’s website.
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      William Saliba is shrugged off the ball as Ferguson races on to score his first Premier League goalCredit: Reuters
      After getting his first Premier League goal, Ferguson is promising moreCredit: Sportsfile
      “At the end we could have, depending on the offside goal, had another chance at it but that’s the way it goes.
      “I’m buzzing to get the goal. Hopefully I can just keep going and try and get another.” More

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      Benfica’s amazing array of former talent includes Nunez, Silva and Felix – and earned club over £1bn in transfers

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      AS football clubs go, none are more profitable and prolific when it comes to producing talent than Benfica.The Portuguese giants have generated over £1billion in player sales over the past decade, made from shrewd buys and bringing players through their excellent youth set-up.
      Enzo Fernandez is the latest superstar set for a big move from BenficaCredit: Getty
      Last summer, Darwin Nunez swapped Benfica for Liverpool in an £85m dealCredit: Getty
      Latest superstar Enzo Fernandez was brought to the club from Argentina only this year, before shining at the World Cup for his country. Now, he’s set for a blockbuster £105million move to Chelsea.
      Last summer, Darwin Nunez swapped Lisbon for Liverpool in a whopping £85million deal.
      Joao Felix’s transfer to Atletico Madrid for a staggering £115million still remains their highest record departure.
      While in the future, new wonderkid Goncalo Ramos could generate a huge fee – with Man Utd circling.
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      Here’s just some of the superstars who have passed through their doors at the Caixa Futebol Campus, and what they have gone on to become.
      Darwin Nunez
      Not strictly a youth product, but definitely a round of applause is needed for the scouts who recommended Nunez.
      The Uruguayan was playing second division football in Spain with Almeria, before Benfica took a gamble and signed him as a 21-year-old in 2020.
      In two seasons he scored 48 goals in 85 games, convincing Jurgen Klopp to pay an £85million fee.
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      Ruben Dias
      The now Man City defender, 25, began his football education at Benfica in 2008, when he was just 11.
      After graduating through their youth teams, he made his debut for the club in 2017.
      Dias would go on to make 137 appearances, before joining the Premier League champions for £65million in 2020.
      Ruben Dias came through Benfica’s youth set-upCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Joao Cancelo
      Just like Dias, Cancelo joined Benfica when he was a kid – aged 13.
      However, he would only ever play one game for the club before he was loaned out to Valencia, who exercised an option to buy the wing-back for around £12million in 2015.
      The international star would go on to play for Inter Milan and Juventus, who Man City would pay £60million to for his services.
      Joao Cancelo joined Benfica at 13 – but only played onceCredit: Getty
      David Luiz
      The Brazil legend played 55 times across the second and third division for Vitoria in Brazil, when Benfica took a punt on him for a meagre £500,000 in 2007.
      Luiz would go on to play 132 times for the Primeira Liga side, establishing himself as one of Europe’s leading defenders.
      Chelsea would pay a massive £25million fee for the centre-back in 2010, and he would go on to have an impressive career – starring at PSG, returning to Chelsea, then Arsenal, and currently Flamengo.
      Benfica made nearly £25million profit on David Luiz when they sold him to ChelseaCredit: Action Images – Reuters
      Bernardo Silva
      Born in Lisbon, it was inevitable Silva would play for boyhood club Benfica.
      He joined their youth ranks when he was just eight, making his debut aged 19.
      But the attacking midfielder would only play three times, before he was loaned out to Monaco, who snapped him up for £15million in 2015, after a successful loan.
      City snapped him up for £45million in 2017, where he has enjoyed incredible success.
      Bernardo Silva made his debut for Benfica aged 19Credit: Getty
      Renato Sanches
      In 2006, nine-year-old Sanches was welcomed into the Benfica academy.
      At 18, he was thrown into the deep-end where he became one of Europe’s most sought-after talents.
      Bayern Munich paid a staggering £35million fee for him in 2016, although he failed to live up to expectations.
      A loan move to Swansea further dented his rep, however at Lille Sanches would rebuild his career.
      This season, he signed for PSG – where he is continuing to go from strength-to-strength.
      Renato Sanches was sold for a staggering £35m in 2016 to Bayern MunichCredit: AFP
      Joao Felix
      The golden boy of Portugal football, Felix is Benfica’s biggest success story.
      After leaving Porto, he was snapped up by the club he would make his debut for aged just 16.
      In his one and only season he scored 20 goals in 43 games – and was awarded the Golden Boy.
      Atletico snapped him for a mammoth £115million fee, although he has struggled to live up to the hype. Perhaps a move to the Premier League can help revitalise the top talent?
      Portugal golden boy is Benfica’s biggest success story – generating a mega £115m after coming through the academyCredit: Reuters
      Ederson
      The Brazilian shotstopper was initially released by Benfica aged 16.
      Ederson built his career up at second division Ribeirão, then starred at Rio Ave, until Benfica resigned him in 2015 for a paltry £500,000.
      He would dislodge Julio Cesar as the club’s No1, and in 2017 moved to Man City for £35million.
      Ederson left Benfica but returned before making his name in the gameCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Angel Di Maria
      Argentina legend Di Maria would go on to have an incredible career at clubs, including Real Madrid, Man Utd, PSG and currently Juventus.
      But many will have forgotten his stint at Benfica between 2007-10, which set him on his way.
      He arrived in Portugal for £6million as a 19-year-old from Rosario Central.
      Three years later, Los Blancos would pay a mega £33million fee for him.
      Angel Di Maria’s European football career began at Benfica when he was 19Credit: PA:Empics Sport
      And here’s how they did it…
      In 2006, when Benfica legend Eusebio opened their new training centre and youth academy, Caixa Futebol Campus there was hope that they could mould players into playing the way they wanted them to.
      And there’s no doubt the facilities provided give youngsters the opportunity to develop as well as anywhere in the world.
      Around 65 kids from around the world play on the nine pitches the campus boasts.
      There are 20 dressing rooms, two auditoriums, and three state-of-the art gyms filled with the latest strength and conditioning equipment a top athlete needs.
      Benfica youth coach Luis Nascimento revealed to These Football Times: “Youth football is a fundamental area for Benfica, with sporting, social and financial benefits.
      “We do not talk exclusively about ‘training’, we refer also to ‘educating’. The academic performance of our players is monitored and encouraged at all levels.”
      The Caixa Futebol Campus was launched in 2006
      The training academy in Seixal features nine pitches
      A state-of-the-art gym gives players the opportunity to work on strength and conditioning training
      JEWEL IN THE CROWN
      In recent years, football clubs in this country have cottoned on to new technology to improve the abilities of their players.
      Benfica have been at the forefront of new ideas that push the boundaries of training for years.
      Their most innovative method centres around the 360S simulator, a similar tool to the Footbonaut used in the Bundesliga.
      Designed to test reaction speeds, vision and technical execution, the player receives the ball from various points and has to aim for moving targets inside a 10-foot circle.
      At the same time, robotic-like players offer a distraction by moving along the walls of each side of the cage.
      Goalkeepers can also use it because the system can simulate a variety of shots that dip, curl and can be fired at them.
      Current Leeds forward Helder Costa, who came through the ranks at Benfica, revealed: “The 360S makes us work not only our capacity of reaction, but also our precision.”
      The 360S simulator helps Benfica’s players hone their technique
      Robotic figures appear on the walls that either need to be passed to or avoided
      The software for the 360S simulator allows training to be modified depending on the player’s position and attributes he needs
      EDUCATION COMES FIRST
      Manners maketh man, and that’s exactly what Benfica expect from their players coming through the ranks.
      That’s why their academy has a partnership with a local school in the Seixal area, where the campus is based, and the starlets receive an academic education alongside their footballing one.

      On top of that, 30 of the prospects live with host families in the surrounding community who aid the in the development process.
      Nascimento concluded: “The mission of Benfica’s academy is to guarantee the quality of technical training and educational enrichment of its players, of all age groups, with a focus on the integration into the clubs first team, promoting human values such as respect, responsibility, solidarity, justice and tolerance.” More

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      Amazing rise of Enzo Fernandez, from River Plate wonderkid to World Cup winner and £105m transfer to Chelsea

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      CHELSEA are set for a sensational move for Argentina World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez.The Blues have agreed a record £105million fee for the midfielder with Benfica, as the 21-year-old appears destined for the Premier League.
      Enzo Fernandez clutches the FIFA Young Player award following his displays for Argentina at the World CupCredit: Getty
      Youngster Fernandez has enjoyed a meteoric rise that began at River PlateCredit: Getty
      It completes a remarkable month for Fernandez – who not only tasted success with his country in Qatar, but was also handed the FIFA award for best young player at the tournament.
      Fernandez only made his debut in 2019 with Argentine giants River Plate.
      It was ex-Chelsea star Hernan Crespo who steered his career in the right direction, during a season-long loan at Defensa y Justicia.
      But it was under the stewardship of the enigmatic coach Marcelo Gallardo who elevated him to even bigger heights, earning him a blockbuster move to Portugal only this year.
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      Early promise
      Fernandez grew up in Buenos Aires – where the locals live and breath football.
      Incredibly, he joined River aged just five after discovering the game at local side Club La Recova.
      Some 13 years later, after progressing through the ranks, Gallardo promoted him to the first team, where he made his debut in a 3-0 loss to L.D.U. Quito in the Copa Libertadores.
      The club and Gallardo thought it was important for his development that he needed to be a starter elsewhere.
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      For the 2020-21 season, he was loaned out to Defensa y Justicia, where he would flourish under ex-Blues star Crespo.
      Recognising Fernandez’s abilities – a possession player, who offers boundless energy and tactical intelligence – Crespo played the talent as a lone defensive midfielder.
      He would go on to become a key player for Defensa y Justicia, who enjoyed a fantastic season.
      They won the Copa Sudamericana and Recopa Sudamericana consecutively, with Fernandez an important cog in that team’s success.
      He returned to River full of confidence.
      From the age of five Fernandez played his football for River Plate
      A successful loan at Defensa y Justicia saw Fernandez win silverware
      2021-22
      The following season, on the insistence of Gallardo, Fernandez was brought back into the first team fold.
      He immediately became a starter – scoring his first goal for the club and providing an assist in the 2-0 win over Velez Sarsfield.
      It was an incredible start to the season for Fernandez, who managed eight goals and provided six assists in 19 games.
      Playing further forward, his eye for a pass and a new found ability to get into the box and prove to be a threat was reaping its rewards for both club and player.
      For many that season, he was the best footballer in Argentina – and there was a massive buzz about his potential.
      Europe’s top clubs circled, but it was a Portuguese giant who moved first.
      Fernandez soon became a driving force in River Plate’s midfield when he returned from his loanCredit: Getty
      By 2022, Fernandez was the most sought-after talent in ArgentinaCredit: Getty
      Benfica
      Lisbon giants Benfica jumped ahead of the queue by paying £12million for the playmaker last summer.
      Following River’s exit from the Copa Libertadores in July, Fernandez waved farewell to his team-mates and set off on a new adventure in Portugal.
      Such was the belief in him – Benfica gave him their most prestigious squad number, 13.
      It was famously worn by legend Eusebio during the 1960s, and isn’t handed out to anyone.
      Fernandez instantly paid back his fee and the favour.
      On his debut against Midtjylland in a Champions League qualifier, he scored a sumptuous half-volley from outside the box.
      He followed that up with a goal on his Primeira Liga debut in a 4–0 home win over Arouca. A star was born.
      Fernandez has been ever-present in a Benfica side that’s unbeaten in 28 games across all competitions this season.
      They even got the better of PSG and his Argentina team-mate Lionel Messi, finishing top of their Champions League group.
      Before the break for the World Cup, Fernandez was crowned Primeira Liga’s Midfielder of the Month for the third consecutive month.
      It was form that set him up nicely for the greatest show on earth.
      Benfica handed Fernandez their legendary No13 jerseyCredit: Getty
      Fernandez became a cult hero – as the club remain unbeaten this season in all competitionsCredit: Getty
      Tactical intelligence, passing and tenacity in the tackle are all attributes Fernandez boastsCredit: Getty
      Argentina hero
      Remarkably, Fernandez only made his debut for Argentina in September, fulfilling a dream to play alongside his idol Messi.
      “To play with Leo brings me enormous joy,” Fernandez revealed after the game.
      “It’s a dream come true.”
      Messi would return the sentiment just three months later – calling Fernandez “a spectacular kid”, as the pair led Argentina’s charge to World Cup glory.
      But it wasn’t until the final group game where Fernandez showed his country what they were missing – curling a shot into the top corner of Guillermo Ochoa’s net to seal a 2-0 victory over Mexico, in which he appeared as a sub.
      It became impossible for boss Lionel Scaloni to drop him after that, showing a tenacity that was missing from Argentina’s midfield in the first game against Saudi Arabia.
      Only two players across the World Cup (Mateo Kovacic and Achraf Hakimi) recorded more successful tackles than his 22.
      While his crisp and incisive passing rate was 88 per cent during the tournament.
      Fernandez was at his best in the final – providing a swashbuckling box-to-box display.

      For Fernandez it was a dream to play alongside idol Lionel MessiCredit: The Mega Agency
      Fernandez’s all-action displays dazzled all the way to the finalCredit: Rex
      Fernandez kisses the World Cup after an epic tournamentCredit: Rex
      It was fitting that before he got his hands on the World Cup, he was given the FIFA Young Player trophy.
      The Premier League has seemingly gained another gem from South American, ready to elevate his club to greater success – just like he did for his country. More

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      Chelsea transfer target Benoit Badiashile was France wonderkid, once told off by Thierry Henry for his bad manners

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      YOU always want to be on the good side of your manager.But when French wonderkid Benoit Badiashile was just 19, he forgot his manners in front of former Monaco boss Thierry Henry, he was quickly reminded.
      French wonderkid Benoit Badiashile has signed for Chelsea
      But Badiashile once upset Thierry Henry when he forgot to tuck his chair in after a press conference
      A lot has changed for the uncompromising centre-back – who has reportedly agreed terms with Chelsea, ahead of a blockbuster move to the Blues for a fee reported fee north of £35million.
      But in December 2018, at a press conference ahead of Monaco’s must-win match against Borussia Dortmund in a Champions League tie – Badiashile was reprimanded for not putting his manager’s needs first.
      Badiashile was sat alongside the Arsenal legend answering reporters’ questions, and when the pair finished they jumped up from their seats to leave the room.
      However, poor Benoit forgot to tuck his chair in and Henry glared at him like a naughty schoolboy until the youngster returned to the table to correct his mistake.
      Since then, Badiashile has risen through the ranks – impressing under Niko Kovac and most recently Philippe Clement to become one of the most sought-after defenders in world football.
      BLOODED BY HENRY
      Despite infuriating his ex-manager, Badiashile was bled into the team by Henry who quickly realised the towering defender’s qualities.
      This season Badiashile has become a key part of Monaco’s defence as they chase the Ligue 1 titleCredit: AFP or licensors
      The 6ft 4in France under-21 international has gone on to play 135 times for the club since making his debut in the 2018-19 season.
      And when Henry was fired from the Stade Louis II, experienced manager Leonardo Jardim continued to integrate the prodigy into his side – installing a greater defensive discipline into Badiashile, although his appearances were more limited.
      And in reent seasons Badiashile has shone as manager have come and go.BROTHERS IN ARMS
      Born in France, and raised by Congolese parents – Badiashile dreamed of playing professional football.
      But it was his elder goalkeeping brother who made the grade first.
      Henry gave Badiashile his debut for MonacoCredit: AFP or licensors
      Loic Badiashile, now 24, is also highly thought of at Monaco – and made his first team debut in a UEFA Champions League qualifier against Fenerbache in 2016.
      It ended in a disappointing 2-1 loss, and it seems that bad results on their debuts runs in the Badiashile family.
      When Benoit was thrown into the side against PSG, the Red and Whites were taught a lesson.
      He was helpless as Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and former striker Edinson Cavani put Monaco to the sword, with the Uruguayan netting a hat-trick.
      CONFIDENCE IN HIS ABILITY
      It was a rude awakening for the teen sensation, but it didn’t destroy his confidence and he showed incredible mental strength to shrug that disappointment off.
      That courageous spirit is just one of Badiashile’s many qualities tha caught the eye of Europe’s top club, including Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Man Utd
      For his strong frame, his pace and ability to read the game and snuff out danger before it arrives is reminiscent of Chelsea star Kalidou Koulibaly,
      A powerhouse at the back, he’s tough to get past, but as with most young defenders positionally he can drift away from his man.
      That said, coaches for the French national team believe he’s the next big thing and have high hopes for Badiashile.
      Badiashile is strong, athletic and reads the game wellCredit: Getty – Contributor
      A France under-21 international, Badiashile is expected to become a full internationalCredit: Instagram
      Badiashile could be a big hit in the Premier League if Ole Gunnar Solskjaer decides to sign him from FranceCredit: Instagram
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      He’s been capped at under-16 level – all the way through to the under-21’s for France – and has two caps at full level.
      Benoit revealed that Manchester United DID bid for him in 2020, however he snubbed a £22million move. His time in the Premier League, though, is now set to come. More

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      Sasha Attwood could join the glamorous Serie A Wags including former Miss Italy with Jack Grealish linked with AC Milan

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      JACK GREALISH could be the latest British export trying his luck overseas.The Man City midfielder, 27, has been linked with a sensational move to AC Milan.
      Man City ace Jack Grealish could be headed to Serie ACredit: Tim Stewart
      Girlfriend Sasha Attwood could join Grealish on his Italian adventureCredit: Instagram @sasha__rebecca
      He would join fellow England stars Tammy Abraham, Fikayo Tomori and Chris Smalling in Serie A.
      And going with him on his Italian adventure would be his glam Wag Sasha Attwood.
      If the stunning model does, she will be in incredible company with Serie A boasting an army of glamorous Wags.
      Sam Cooke
      Smalling met gorgeous Page 3 girl Sam Cooke in 2013, and they were soon lighting up the gossip pages with pictures of them on holiday in Barbados.
      Read more Jack Grealish news
      Three years later the pair were engaged, and they enjoyed an epic wedding in 2017 attended by teammates including Wayne Rooney, Luke Shaw, Phil Jones and Sam Johnstone.
      The nuptials took place in the idyllic setting of sun-soaked Lake Como in Italy, in what was a dream ceremony.
      In 2019, the couple became proud parents of a baby boy called Leo Asher, after Sam revealed she went through a 39-hour labour.
      Chris Smalling met Sam Cooke back in 2013
      Cooke is a former Page 3 model
      Jessica Melena
      Brunette beauty Jessica, 32, is the wife of Lazio ace Ciro Immobile.
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      The pair met in 2012 when Immobile was on loan at Serie B Pescara.
      It was virtually love at first sight.
      After bumping into each other at a restaurant, the pair were living together within a week – while Jessica fell pregnant with the first of their two daughters six months later.
      They married in 2014 in Buccianico, Jessica’s hometown in the province of Chieti.
      Glam Jessica Melena is married to Italy ace Ciro ImmobileCredit: Instagram @jessicamelena
      Jessica Melena shows off her incredible bikini bodyCredit: Instagram @jessicamelena
      Agustina Gandolfo
      Gandolfo, 26, is a model and girlfriend of Argentina striker Lautaro Martinez.
      The blonde bombshell was introduced to the Inter Milan star by stunner Wanda Nara, the on-off other half of Mauro Icardi.
      She has since grown her own brand as a fitness and healthy lifestyle expert – boasting almost one million followers on Instagram.
      Gandolfo also runs her own restaurant in Milan called Coraje.
      Augustina Gandolfo shows off her enviable curvesCredit: Instagram @agus.gandolfo
      Argentine beauty Gandolfo dates World Cup winner Lautaro MartinezCredit: Instagram @agus.gandolfo
      Lucia Bramani
      Psychology student Lucia began dating Federico Chiesa back in March.
      Not much is known how the 21-year-old met the Juventus forward.
      But, rather unsurprisingly, she is also a model for the prestigious Elite agency.
      Bramani has 120,000 followers on Instagram, who are fascinated by her epic lifestyle.
      Model Lucy Bramani is Federico Chiesa’s new girlfriend
      Chiesa and Bramani celebrated Christmas together
      Rachele Risialti
      Rachele Risaliti hasn’t been shy about her relationship with midfield ace Gaetano Castrovilli.
      Sharing a snap on Instagram of the couple locked in a passionate embrace, Rachele posted the comment “miss you” as Castrovilli rushed off to take part in the Euro 2020 build-up last year.
      Born in Prato, Italy, Rachele, 27, rose to fame after being crowned Miss Italia 2016.
      And she’s been a keen supporter of her Italian beau, sharing pics of herself with pal ­Benedetta Quagli, who used to date Chiesa.
      Rachele Risaliti is a former Miss ItaliaCredit: Instagram @rachele_risaliti
      Risaliti dates Gaetano CastrovilliCredit: Instagram @elcastro10
      Nif Brascia
      21-year-old stunner Nif dates Everton’s on-loan star Moise Kean, who is starring at Juventus.
      She was born in Thailand, and is a Muay Thai champion.
      Nif reportedly met the international striker in a Milan nightclub in 2019.
      But the pair like to keep their romance under wraps.
      Nif Brascia is a kickboxing expertCredit: Instagram @nifbrascia
      Moise Kean and Brascia have been dating since 2019
      Leah Monroe
      Since moving to Roma last year, Monroe has been a permanent fixture – cheering him on at the Olympic Stadium.
      The 22-year-old vlogger from London isn’t afraid to share her secrets, including the time she underwent plastic surgery.
      Monroe filmed her lip filler experience at a Harley Street surgeon, admitting it was the first time she went under and she was petrified.
      She has almost 125,000 followers on Instagram, with her latest post revealing they were expecting their first child.
      Leah Monroe is a popular beauty vloggerCredit: Instagram @leahmonroe_
      Monroe dates England striker Tammy AbrahamCredit: Instagram @leahmonroe_
      Zoe Cristofoli
      Tattoo lover Cristofoli, 26, is the girlfriend of AC Milan star Theo Hernandez.
      She and the defender share a son called TJ.
      Read More on The Sun
      The stunner has a love of ink, with her body a canvas for it.
      While she also runs her own parlour Ink Studio Lagrange in Turin.
      Zoe Cristofoli is a tattoo-obsessed Wag
      Cristofoli dates Theo HernandezCredit: Splash More

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      What awaits Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia as the ex-Man Utd star considers £173m-a-year move to Al Nassr

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      CRISTIANO Ronaldo is mulling over his future, as he considers his next steps following the termination of his Man Utd contract.The Portugal superstar, 37, was released by the Red Devils, after slamming the club and its manager in a tell-all interview with Piers Morgan.
      Cristiano Ronaldo is closing in on a move to Saudi ArabiaCredit: Getty
      There is plenty for Ronaldo and his brood to enjoy in the Saudi capital, RiyadhCredit: @cristiano
      And now he is reportedly considering a stunning move to Saudi Arabian giants Al Nassr, who are said to have offered the football legend a £173million-a-year contract.
      The deal on the table is believed to be for seven years – two and a half years as a player – before taking on an ambassadorial role.
      But what awaits Ronaldo should he make the leap to the Middle East?
      For starters, there are amazing private mansions worth millions and housed in exclusive compounds that promise security for him and his family.
      Read more Cristiano Ronaldo news
      Then, there’s a first class footballing set-up with a team that can genuinely challenge for a league title.
      Wags to riches
      Paramount to Ronaldo, whoever he chooses for his next club, is the happiness of his brood.
      He will have to consider Georgina Rodriguez and children Cristiano Jr, Eva, Matteo, Alana Martina, and Bella as he pursues his next steps.
      Financially, it’s a no-brainer – and will add immense wealth to his astonishing estimated £500million fortune.
      Most read in Football
      And a life in Saudi Arabia could see him live like a king and Georgina, a queen.
      A mansion in an ex-pat compound away from prying eyes where the country’s Conservative strict Islamic laws can be relaxed, could work for them.
      Al Nassr are based in Riyadh – the Saudi capital – where temperatures can exceed 50 degrees and sandstorms are common.
      What once was a sprawling desert surrounded by palm trees, is now a metropolis of skyscrapers, shopping malls filled with high-end designers, as well as historic mosques.
      The rejuvenation of the city is the brainchild of Saudi Crown Prince Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who wants to modernise his country.
      Already, they are embracing other cultures – with shops currently allowed to display Christmas decorations in their windows for a third consecutive year.
      They even have their own Winter Wonderland, while a perfume expo attracts the country’s wealthy women. Georgina, take note.
      Saudi Crown Prince Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is in the process of modernising RiyadhCredit: AFP
      Riyadh is now a bustling metropolis filled with skyscrapersCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Where Ronaldo could live
      Riyadh boasts a number of wealthy neighbourhoods.
      Ronaldo and family could settle in Al Muhammadiyah – which boasts an incredible nightlife, including the best restaurants in town.
      Or, there’s Al Nakheel – an area filled with the best international schools to educate their kids.
      Location-wise, both are close to Al Nassr’s 25,000 all-seater stadium once known as the King Saud University Stadium – a far cry from the crowds of 74,000 plus Ronaldo is used to playing in front of at Old Trafford.
      More importantly, though, there are tons of private compounds where the Ronaldos could live that are ideal for the Westerners.
      And most of these palaces feature their own swimming pools, pre-schools, shops, clinics, gyms and restaurants – meaning you never have to leave the compound.
      Rentals are mostly let by employers of ex-pats in private agreements, but should Ronaldo wish to extend his property portfolio, his potential options are ideal for his circumstances.
      One property SunSport has seen is an eight-bedroom mega-mansion that features its own Olympic-sized swimming pool, a reception room with an extravagant waterfall, as well as three guest villas on its grounds in the Al Macqa neighbourhood.
      The option of live-in maids and chauffeurs is also available, should Ronaldo and Georgina want the royalt treatment.
      This eight-bedroom compound could be Ronaldo’sCredit: www.propertyfinder.sa
      A property in Riyadh which is on the market for £12.2millionCredit: www.propertyfinder.sa
      The impressive mansion boasts an Olympic-sized poolCredit: www.propertyfinder.sa
      Privacy and security are on offer in their luxury homes availableCredit: www.propertyfinder.sa
      The team
      Ronaldo’s biggest frustration in the past year at Man Utd was the team’s inability to challenge for trophies.
      Al Nassr are recognised as one of Saudi’s most famous clubs – and were formed in 1955.
      They have nine league titles to their name, with the last triumph coming in 2019.
      Their facilities are second to none in the country – Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao both used their stadium ahead of their Super Cup final earlier this year.
      This season they are genuine title contenders – currently sitting top of the Saudi Pro League on goal difference.
      Al Nassr were formed in 1955 and have won nine league titlesCredit: Reuters
      Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao used Al Nassr’s training facilities ahead of their Super Cup final earlier this yearCredit: Reuters
      Al Nassr boast a 25,000 all-seater stadium – a far cry from the 74,000 plus that watched Ronaldo at Old TraffordCredit: Reuters
      On the world stage, they’ve yet to make their mark – with a disappointing Club World Cup campaign in the 1999-2000 season as good as it got.
      Their squad today is filled with players Premier League audiences may know.
      Ex-Arsenal keeper David Ospina, who starred for five years at the Emirates, plays between the sticks.
      Brazilian midfielder Luiz Gustavo, a favourite of Luis Felipe Scolari at the 2014 World Cup, anchors the midfield.
      While Ronaldo’s potential strike-partner Vincent Aboubakar played in Qatar for Cameroon at the 2022 World Cup – helping his country down Brazil with a winning goal in the group stages.
      Al Nassr are managed by experienced French coach Rudi Garcia, who boasts Roma, Marseille, Lyon and Lille on his CV – winning the French double with the latter.
      Past coaches have included Italy legend Fabio Cannavaro, while mad ex-Colombia keeper Rene Higuita was also once on their staff too.
      Read More on The Sun
      Cameroon star Vincent Aboubakar who played at the World Cup in Qatar would be Ronaldo’s strike-partnerCredit: Getty
      Rudi Garcia Al Nassr managerCredit: Instagram @alnassr_fc
      Garcia has seemingly found a winning formula – with the club ready to be crowned champions again.
      The question is; will Ronaldo be part of the new Saudi revolution? More

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      in Soccer

      Inside the controversial Dubai zoo visited by Man Utd stars Maguire and McTominay, which has angered the RSPCA

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      PRIVATE farm Fame Park, owned by Emirati entrepreneur Saif Ahmad Belhasa, is an open door for the rich and famous.Man Utd stars Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay were the latest footballers to take advantage of some time off and mix with exotic animals, including handling pythons, feeding giraffes, and cuddling baby tigers.
      Man Utd star Harry Maguire and England team mate James Maddison were recent guests of Saif Ahmad Belhasa at Fame Park
      Maguire was seen handling exotic birds and other animals
      Man Utd’s Scott McTominay also visited the private farm in Dubai with girlfriend Cam Reading and familyCredit: Instagram / @scottmctominay
      While in the past, the likes of Lionel Messi, Anthony Joshua, Floyd Mayweather, Paul Pogba and more have visited the grounds – meeting with Belhasa’s son Rashed, better known as YouTuber Money Kicks, for a grand tour and photo op.
      But, Fame Park has its critics for its practices. Especially because it’s seen as a way for many influencers to get more followers and likes on Instagram.
      And Scotland international McTominay, himself, has come under fire for enjoying a tug-of-war with a tiger.
      The RSPCA has slammed Fame Park for using wild animals for the purpose of “public entertainment”.
      read more man utd news
      Inside Fame Park
      Fame Park is a private zoo, so unless you are incredibly wealthy or a celebrity – chances are you won’t get an invite.
      Owned by Saif Ahmed Belhasa, with an estimated fortune of £4billion, you’ll find over 500 animals, including lions, tigers, panthers, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, and even bears.
      It was built in 2001, originally to house Belhasa’s horse. However, when the billionaire was given a lion cub he turned it into a zoo.
      Many of the animals are named after famous people.
      Most read in Football
      There’s two giraffes named after Sesame Street’s Bert and Ernie, a monkey called Paris Hilton, and Ronaldo, Jackie Chan, Rihanna and Mariah Carey have also had animals named after them, as well as made the pilgrimage to the astonishing grounds you need a go-kart to negotiate around.
      Footballers come in their droves, wowed by Belhasa’s wealth and the opportunity to feed a beast they’d never otherwise encounter.
      Jesse Lingard, John Terry, David Luiz, Luka Modric and more have all fed a tiger or a cub some milk for a photo op.
      Even boxers Anthony Joshua and Floyd Mayweather have gone toe-to-toe with some bears and orangutans.
      The zoo itself can be seen from the lavish home’s living room and was featured on Channel 4’s World’s Weirdest Homes in December 2018.
      Belhasa’s son, who goes under the moniker Money Kicks, confirmed that the zoo isn’t open to the public, the family don’t make a profit from it and the animals aren’t badly treated.
      “We take care of all our animals,” he said.
      “When I went to Kenya, I see a lot of lions dying because they eat once a month and here they eat every single day.”
      Because of his wealth, Belhasa Jr – who once had a £200k Ferrari F12 Berlinetta wrapped in Louis Vuitton logos – rubs shoulders with celebrities who make him their first port of call when they arrive in Dubai.
      “They all want to spend time on our family farm and see our tigers,” he told Dubai’s English-speaking newspaper, The National.
      Chelsea star Reece James was one of many footballers who visited in the past yearCredit: https://www.instagram.com/rjames/?hl=en
      Croatia legend Luka Modric poses with Rashed Belhasa – better known now as YouTuber Money KicksCredit: Refer to Caption
      Liverpool’s Diogo Jota feeds a giraffeCredit: Instagram @diogoj_18
      England legend Wayne Rooney plays with a monkey
      Jesse Lingard takes in the exotic animals and poses for a photo op
      “Wiz Khalifa is my friend. Steve Aoki is my friend. They have all come to our farm.
      “But sometimes I have to say no to celebrities who want to come here. I don’t have the time and it is tiring.”
      Animals rights groups are unhappy
      Despite Belhasa Jr’s claim, animal rights groups have been left bewildered by images showing Red Devils star McTominay in a tug-of-war with a tiger.
      The midfielder was filmed alongside girlfriend Cam Reading with a selection of animals at Fame Park, and shared images with a tiger cub, a snake and an iguana on social media.
      Fans online were livid.
      One vented: “Why is he playing tug of war with a tiger? Disgusting.”
      Another wrote: “Scott, I love you but this is wrong. Taking selfies with captive wild animals contributes to their suffering.”
      The RSPCA shared their views with SunSport.
      A spokesperson told SunSport: “Zoos often state that their aim is to educate the public and have a positive influence on visitor behaviour in ways that will directly benefit conservation. 
      “Whilst we understand that some zoos may feel that a ‘tug of war’ provides physical enrichment for big cats, there are many alternative ways of doing this. 
      “We don’t feel this activity promotes respect for these wild animals and should not be marketed for public entertainment.
      Boxing legend Floyd Mayweather is a friend of the Belhasa family and regular guest
      Paul Pogba has visited Fame Park several times
      McTominay was slammed for a video showing him playing tug-of-war with a tigerCredit: Instagram / @scottmctominay
      McTominay and other celebrities have been accused of using exotic animals to drum up likes on social mediaCredit: Instagram / @scottmctominay
      “The RSPCA would always urge the public to consider their impact on animals when travelling abroad and engaging in such activities.
      Read More on The Sun
      “Instead, we’d urge people to avoid some of the cruel entertainment practices they may see when on holiday.
      “It is important for holidaymakers to research the activities they are taking part in first and if they are in any doubt, look for ethical alternatives.” More