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      in Soccer

      Christian Eriksen’s remarkable comeback from heart attack, starring for Man Utd against Arsenal and destroying France

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      AS comebacks go, this one could make a Hollywood movie.It was only 15 months ago that Christian Eriksen was fighting for his life after collapsing on the pitch at Euro 2020.
      Christian Eriksen has enjoyed a remarkable return to the game after his heart attackCredit: Getty
      Just 15 months ago, Eriksen fought for his life following a cardiac arrestCredit: AFP
      The Denmark playmaker, 30, then saw his contract at Inter Milan terminated, after he was fitted with a heart defibrillator and banned from playing in Italian football.
      Brentford gave him a second opportunity on a six-month contract in January, where he managed to impress.
      That prompted Manchester United to offer him a deal, and this season he starred in a 3-1 win over Arsenal.
      Now he appears ready for the World Cup – coming off an incredible performance against France over the weekend and breaking a Nations League record.
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      ‘I was gone for five whole minutes’
      Eriksen’s renaissance is even more remarkable considering his plight on the Parken Stadium pitch on June 12, 2021.
      Off the ball, he fell to the ground and immediately the game was stopped. Viewers around the world looked on in horror as the midfielder suffered a cardiac arrest.
      Captain Simon Kjaer rushed to his aid, before admirably organising his team to make a circle around the star who was fighting to stay alive and getting treatment.
      He was given CPR and an Automated External Defibrillator was used to get his heart working again.
      “I was gone for five whole minutes,” he told the BBC.
      Denmark’s stars famously surrounded team mate Eriksen as he was receiving treatmentCredit: AFP
      Eriksen revealed he was ‘gone for five whole minutes’ before an Automated External Defibrillator got his heart working againCredit: Reuters
      Ready for the challenge
      Three days later, Eriksen posted a picture giving the thumbs up from a Copenhagen hospital bed and reassuring fans he was doing “fine under the circumstances.”
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      He vowed not to give up. He promised it would not be the end.
      To give him a chance at playing in the future – Eriksen was fitted with a revolutionary Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator, which can reset the heart after a cardiac arrest.
      It’s a device half the size of a mobile phone that has wires leading to areas of the heart.
      But, Italian rules stipulate that players playing with heart starting devices are not allowed to play in the league again.
      It left Eriksen in a dilemma.
      A revolutionary Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator was fitted in Eriksen’s heart
      Contract termination
      Under the guidelines, Inter Milan had no option but to terminate Eriksen’s contract.
      They came to a mutual consent – with Inter apologetic over the circumstance.
      “The club and the entire Nerazzurri family wish Christian all the very best for his future,” Inter said in a statement.
      “Although Inter and Christian are now parting ways, the bond shall never be broken. The good times, the goals, the victories, those Scudetto celebrations with fans outside San Siro – all this will remain forever in Nerazzurri history.”
      It left Eriksen planning his future.
      Inter Milan were forced to terminate Eriksen’s contract after his ICD fitting broke Italian rulesCredit: Getty
      To Hounslow
      In January, Eriksen returned to our shores with Brentford.
      Thomas Frank, who worked with him at youth level with the Danes, revealed the former Spurs star was eager to impress and enjoyed being back in a football environment.
      “I must say he’s bubbling,” Frank told Sky Sports.
      “We are having him seven months after the incident so he missed badly being part of the group, being part of a club and hopefully we can add new chapters to the Brentford story.”
      27 days after it was announced the Bees had given him a short-term deal, Eriksen was back on a football pitch again.
      Replacing Mathias Jensen in 2-0 defeat to Newcastle, he was given a standing ovation as he ran onto the pitch.
      Just over two weeks later, he recorded his first assist in a 2-0 win over Burnley.
      Then in April, he was instrumental in Brentford stunning Chelsea 4-1 at Stamford Bridge – scoring his first goal since his return.
      Astonishingly, between the date of Eriksen’s Bees debut to the end of last campaign only Kevin De Bruyne and Martin Ødegaard created more chances in the Premier League.
      Back in January, Brentford offered Eriksen a route back to footballCredit: AFP
      Eriksen was instrumental in Brentford’s 4-1 win over ChelseaCredit: Getty
      The story continues
      After his heroic return, Eriksen was a reported target for old club Spurs, while Brentford were hopeful he would stay in West London.
      It was the opportunity to work under Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag, though, that swayed his decision to sign for the Red Devils.
      At first, the decision seemed to backfire. A humbling at home to Brighton was followed by a 4-0 thrashing against Brentford. Worse still, Eriksen was caught on the ball for one of the goals as United and their new boy struggled.
      They got their season back on track with a morale-boosting win over Liverpool, then narrow wins over Southampton and Leicester. Eriksen was beginning to find his feet.
      And that came just in time for the home visit of league leaders Arsenal, a game that Eriksen had a major say in deciding.
      His passing during a crucial moment in the match helped United restore their lead against the Gunners – earning him the man-of-the-match award from Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville.
      The opportunity to work with Erik ten Hag was too good to turn down for EriksenCredit: Reuters
      Eriksen was man of the match against Arsenal this seasonCredit: Reuters
      Taking his form onto international duty
      This week, on international duty, Eriksen has continued to show his resurgence is no fluke.
      Playing against world champions France, he dominated the midfield against the much-younger and dynamic Real Madrid pair Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni.
      His stats backed up his performance.
      Eriksen had 80 touches of the ball, completed eight key passes and over half of the crosses he attempted.
      He did not lose the ball while dribbling with it, came out on top in over half of the tackles he made, and his passes found their mark 84 per cent of the time.
      That is not to mention his raking ball forward in the build-up for Kasper Dolberg’s opening goal, or his corner which led to the second from Andreas Skov Olsen.
      Those eight key passes completed were a Nations League record, and his performance drew huge praise from France boss Didier Deschamps.
      “He has always been someone who has a remarkable technical ability,” Deschamps said.
      Eriksen bossed Aurelien Tchouameni off the park for Denmark against FranceCredit: Getty
      Eriksen celebrates a famous victory over the world championsCredit: Reuters
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      “But to play so frequently for his club in the midfield, to see the volume of games he plays, this ability to recover is impressive.”
      Impressive is an understatement. Let’s go with a miracle, instead. More

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      in Boxing

      Meet Joe Joyce’s stunning jet-setting girlfriend Nadine Davison who works as an A&E nurse in a London hospital

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      MORE than 21,000 fans cheered on Joe Joyce as he saw off Joseph Parker at the AO Arena in Manchester over the weekend.But there has been no bigger supporter than long-term girlfriend Nadine Davison through the years.
      Meet the stunning Wag of boxer Joe Joyce, Nadine DavisonCredit: Instagram
      Kind-hearted Nadine works as a nurse for the NHSCredit: Instagram
      Joyce and Nadine celebrate victory after the boxer defeated Joseph ParkerCredit: Instagram
      The gorgeous brunette, 29, has seen The Juggernaut’s rise to WBO interim heavyweight champ – disposing of foes in his wake.
      Nadine, herself, knows a thing or two about people getting hurt – being a Senior Sister at a London hospital.
      When she’s not ringside or working, the stunner loves to travel the globe.
      Channel hopping
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      Nadine is a Guernsey girl, born in the Channel Islands, where she has family there.
      She has shared snaps with Joyce visiting her hometown on Instagram to her 2,400 followers.
      It is not known how long the pair have dated.
      However, she has played the role of supportive partner – and is often seen watching him in action.
      Most read in Boxing
      After his victory against Parker, she was seen posing behind the scenes with Joyce and his WBO belt in an image shared on social media.
      Nadine captioned the snap: “What a fight, what a night, what a guy!!”
      Travel girl
      As the Wag of a leading British sport star, Nadine does get to live a life of luxury.
      Her Instagram is full of photos enjoying luxury breaks away.
      Nadine is originally from GuernseyCredit: Instagram
      Glam Nadine has become a favourite on InstagramCredit: Instagram
      Nadine loves to travel and shares her adventures on social mediaCredit: Instagram
      Last summer, Joyce and Nadine enjoyed some sun and sea in Turkey.
      Fitness fanatic Nadine also went to Norway recently on a short trip.
      In recent years, the beauty has also been seen showing off her amazing bikini body in Croatia and Dubai.
      Day job
      When Nadine isn’t watching boxing or topping up her tan, she works full-time as a nurse.
      She began as a medical practitioner at Guernsey Medical Department, before moving to London.
      Currently, she is a senior sister at King’s College Hospital, where she is team leader of the emergency department.
      Admirably, Nadine is working in the NHS and seemingly loves what she does.
      And her work was celebrated by fashion brand Boden in an ad over Christmas.
      She appeared alongside other nurses in a promotional campaign for the group.
      Her role could also come in handy in treating Joyce for any wounds he might need healing after a bout.
      Nadine appeared in a Boden ad over Christmas
      Nadine at Guernsey Medical DepartmentCredit: Instagram
      Over the summer Nadine visited TurkeyCredit: Instagram
      Nadine shows off her amazing bikini bodyCredit: Instagram
      Happy couple Joyce and Nadine lap up the sunshine in TurkeyCredit: Instagram
      Bikini babe Nadine is a senior sister at King’s College HospitalCredit: Instagram More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Neymar’s entourage who earn $11k-per-month, go to exclusive celeb parties and mingle with stars

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      WHO needs a real job?PSG star Neymar transcends the world of football, enjoying the glitzy showbiz lifestyle of a true celebrity.
      Being in Neymar’s entourage means you live a life of luxuryCredit: Instagram
      From attending elite fashion parties to taking fancy holidays, the Brazilian superstar knows how to live.
      And if you’re lucky, you will be part of Neymar’s inner circle, called the ‘parcas’ in his homeland, who indulge in the high-life with him.
      Parcas is a slang term in Portuguese meaning ‘partners’, and just like Vinny Chase in US TV show Entourage, the footballer has a group of pals he trusts more than anyone else.
      Enter the world of one of the most famous sports stars on the planet…
      THE THREE AMIGOS
      There’s a popular joke in Brazil that if you’re Neymar’s friend, you won’t feel the current economic and unemployment crisis that’s sweeping the country.
      And these three live-in mates are reportedly all on the payroll, earning around $11k-per-month from the former Barcelona star.
      Gil Cebola, Jota Amancio and Carlos Henrique are key members of his entourage, each providing a different role within ‘Team Neymar’.
      Gil Cebola is Neymar’s personal photographerCredit: Instagram
      Carlos Henrique is the business brains of Neymar’s entourageCredit: Instagram
      They all live with him in the posh Paris suburb Bougival, in a mansion worth millions.
      Cebola worked briefly as his agent, before assuming his role as chief photographer, managing Neymar’s live broadcasts and videos on social media.
      Off the back of that, Cebola has launched a clothing brand, a tattoo shop and an events production company.
      He now has over 670,000 followers on Instagram, and was selected by Google to photograph an ad campaign in Brazil in recent years. It pays to know Neymar.
      Amancio, who calls himself Neymar’s personal adviser, is perhaps closest to the forward.
      Footballers like Neymar are stars on a completely different level. It’s insane. It’s like a huge cultNBA superstar Draymond Green
      The pair played together in the youth ranks at Santos, and he is akin to a “brother” to the footballer.
      “We met when we were only 13 years old and since then we have grown up together,” Amancio told Marca.
      “We lived in the same house for seven years, we studied together, and until 2010 we played in the same team,”
      While Henrique appears to be the brains of the trio, looking after his pal’s commercial and business interests off the pitch.
      Jota Amancio has known Neymar since they were 13 playing in Santos’ youth teamCredit: Instagram
      Neymar and his entourage live in a stunning mansion in the Bougival suburb of ParisCredit: EPA
      The three were seen partying with Neymar in Las Vegas, alongside Serena Williams, a host of stunning models and UFC Octagon Girls Jhenny Andrade and Camila Oliveira, while Brazil were playing in the Copa America in 2016.
      For Neymar’s 26th birthday his friends also helped him organise a party at the exclusive Pavillion Cambon in Paris, where guests included Lewis Hamilton, Brazilian Ronaldo, and Victoria’s Secret beauty Izabel Goulart.
      SHARE THE WEALTH
      With a net worth of around $121m, Neymar isn’t afraid to show his entourage a good time.
      After all, he believes the parcas are the reason he is where he is today.
      Before his record-breaking transfer to PSG, he flew them to the party island of Ibiza where the gang partied on yachts, in super clubs and rented a huge mansion.
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      It made NBA superstar Draymond Green take note.
      “We see stars in America and it’s amazing,” he said on ESPN.
      “But [footballers like Neymar] are stars on a completely different level over there. It’s insane. It’s like a huge cult.”
      And after his move to Paris, they all went straight to St Tropez, partying at a beach club.
      Club revellers saw 12 bottles of champagne delivered to his table, while a funk version of the Brazilian national anthem played as a backdrop.
      Neymar isn’t afraid of sharing his $121m fortune with his friendsCredit: Instagram
      Exclusive fashion parties thrown by Balmain are attended by Neymar and palsCredit: Instagram
      When Neymar sealed his move to PSG, he celebrated partying with his pals in St TropezCredit: Splash News
      A BAD INFLUENCE
      However, there are those that believe having such an entourage is detriment to Neymar’s career.
      Former Santos marketing director Eduardo Musa worked exclusively as Neymar’s personal adviser for six years.
      One of his many jobs involved looking after an unlimited credit card that paid for the expenses of Neymar’s friends.
      He quit working for the Brazil star after he grew tired of working for such a big name in the game.
      “I can’t complain about anything; it was an amazing experience—my goal as a professional,” Musa told Bleacher Report.
      “But inevitably, when you work with such a huge guy [as Neymar], you have no personal life. I don’t want to pay this price again.”
      Musa encouraged the entourage to become a support system for their pal, but Neymar’s father wasn’t fond of that idea.
      “I have no doubt they’re very important for Neymar, but I tried to turn them into a professional support for Neymar’s career as well.
      “One of them would become a photographer, the other would work as a manager.
      “But his father didn’t accept it [at that time].”
      Former Santos marketing director Eduardo Musa worked as Neymar’s personal advisor for six years
      Musa stopped working with Neymar after falling out with his dadCredit: AFP or licensors
      UNDER PRESSURE
      Being Neymar isn’t easy.
      The expectation on the shoulders of one of the world’s best footballers for club and country could make a mere mortal crumble.
      Gustavo Almeida, another close friend, explained what the entourage provides.
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      “He lives in a pressure-cooker and we are an escape [from it],” he told Brazilian outlet UOL Esporte.
      “We don’t talk about football. We’re a way for him to let go of the stress of his life. We’re together to chat, travel.”
      Every Brazilian kid dreams of becoming the next Ronaldo, Zico or Pele… but now just being friends with the new wonderkid on the scene seems to be just as lucrative.
      The pressure on Neymar’s shoulders for club and country is immenseCredit: Alamy Live News
      Gustavo Almeida says the entourage exists to relieve Neymar from the stresses of footballCredit: Instagram More

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      in Soccer

      Jose Mourinho’s kids are branching out on their own, with daughter’s jewellery worn by Stormzy and son a budding coach

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      HE is not the only Special One in the family.For years Jose Mourinho has lived off that moniker, leading the likes of Porto, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Manchester United, Tottenham and now Roma to success.
      Jose Mourinho’s daughter is an award-winning jewellerCredit: Getty
      His son Jose Jr is an aspiring footballer and coachCredit: Getty
      Stormzy teamed up with Matilde Jewellery for a music video shootCredit: Instagram
      But daughter Matilde is showing her own unique talents as a jeweller.
      The 25-year-old’s brand Matilde Jewellery scooped the Emerging Brand of the Year gong at the Professional Jeweller Awards.
      It was also worn by Stormzy in his new video Mel Made Me Do It, which dad Jose makes an appearance in.
      While son Jose Jr, 21, is an aspiring footballer and coach who has been on the books of Fulham.
      MATILDE
      Back in December 2020, Jose’s ambitious offspring launched her own jewellery brand.
      What made it different from its competitors was her promise to make pieces from sustainable materials.
      Her passion for jewellery began in 2018, when she was gifted a gold bracelet for her 18th birthday by her parents.
      “I was so excited. It was my first piece of proper jewellery,” she told the Daily Mail.
      Read More Sun Sport
      She uses lab-grown diamonds because they “have the least impact on the environment.”
      Matilde studied her craft at the London College of Fashion before doing an MA in Entrepreneurship: Fashion and Creative Industries at Conde Nast College of Fashion and Design.
      It was on a shopping trip with her mum she learned that diamonds can be lab-grown.
      She said: “We walked into a shop where a jewellery brand was doing a pop-up. The founder came up and said: ‘Did you know all our jewellery uses lab-grown diamonds?’ I was like, ‘What?’ I was intrigued.
      Matilde’s jewellery line won a prestigious award at the Professional Jeweller AwardsCredit: Instagram @matildefmf
      Matilde Jewellery uses sustainable materials, including lab-grown diamondsCredit: Instagram @matilde.jewellery
      Pieces from Matilde’s range can cost up to £1,850Credit: Instagram @matilde.jewellery
      Dad Jose Mourinho has been seen wearing Matilde’s men’s jewellery collectionCredit: Instagram @josemourinho
      Jose Mourinho featured in Mel Made Me Do It
      “My mum was born in Angola, which is where a lot of the horrible impact from blood diamonds took place. She was always vocal about it. She thought it was amazing that lab-grown diamonds existed.”
      Matilde now has her own pop-up shop in the heart of London’s Soho that’s open until Christmas Eve.
      Inside, you’ll find pieces for men and women costing up to £1,850.
      Celebrity fans include actress Naomi Scott and film producer Priyanka Chopra Jonas.
      While dad Jose has worn a bracelet and ring made by his daughter at training with Roma.
      Most recently, Stormzy modelled some pieces for his latest music video, Mel Made Me Do It.
      Jose Sr shared images behind the scenes on his Instagram about his cameo.
      He captioned the image: “Was great fun doing this cameo for Stormzy’s new music video out today. I had a great time and it’s great to see him wearing @matilde.jewellery”
      JOSE JR
      Although he’s currently without a club, Mourinho’s son Jose Jr is an able goalkeeper.
      For three years he was on Fulham’s books before he was released in 2017.
      Now 21, he could consider a move into coaching.
      And, if his dad is to be believed, he could become a better coach than him.
      Back in 2018, the youngster was sat on the bench alongside his dad when Manchester United took on Swansea.
      For his work experience, he then delivered a tactical analysis of what was wrong with his father’s side.
      Jose revealed: “In a period of a few bad results one day, he comes up with some analysis on my team — obviously suffering because Dad wasn’t doing well.
      “We had lost to Watford and Manchester City, I think, and he came with the stats of the team. I showed them to my assistants and I told them, ‘Be careful as one day this boy will take one of your places’.
      Jose Jr was an able goalkeeper and was formerly on Fulham’s booksCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      When his father was at Manchester United, he Jose Jr sat in the dugout for work experienceCredit: Getty
      Jose Mourinho believes his son could one day become a great coachCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Most read in Football
      “But in fact I compare him with me at his age, where I would try to do the same sort of things for my dad — of course with different technology methods, but analysis from a kid aged 16 then.”
      The apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree, as Mourinho’s kids are making their own way in life.
      Clearly, the Special One has produced a couple of Special Ones.
      Generous Jose Mourinho give teen sensation Felix Afena-Gyan a £700 pair of shoes after netting first Roma goals More

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      in Boxing

      Inside Tyson Fury’s six meal a day diet featuring CURRY which helped body transformation before Wilder fight

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      TYSON FURY’S phenomenal body transformation before he fought Deontay Wilder was down to a diet of six meals a day – including a wholesome CURRY.The WBC champ, 34, lost an incredible 10st before his first fight with the Bronze Bomber back in 2018.

      Apple cranberry stuffed porkloin, with butternut squash, quinoa, walnuts, and spinach is a favourite for dinnerCredit: Instagram
      George Lockhart flew over to the UK to help Fury again
      Tyson Fury still gets his intake of meat and fish – but it’s cooked to perfectionCredit: Instagram
      The nutritionist even makes cauliflower look appetisingCredit: Instagram
      Fury got in shape with his diet after snapping up UFC chef and Conor McGregor nutritionist George Lockhart.
      And Lockhart even took to Instagram to reveal he was flying back to the UK to help Fury back in 2020.
      Along with a picture of his British Airways ticket, he wrote: “Here we go again!!!! #tysonfury #lockhartandleith #cookingforthechamp #ufc #weightcut #takingover”
      Naturally-gifted 6ft 9in Fury has used to appear as though he played fast and loose with the science of the sport.
      Friend and camp manager Timothy Allcock was also his personal cook ahead of his first fight against Wilder in December 2018 and peanut butter chicken was on the menu almost every night.
      Fighting man Fury showed little interest in the diet fads and micro meals that come in and out of fashion among fighters and celebrities.
      But he has handed over the pots and pans to former US marine and MMA fighter Lockhart to get in shape – and stay there.
      Lockhart makes salmon cakes with spicy jalapenos, coriander and Greek yogurt dressing for Fury.
      The heavyweight boxer is encouraged to wolf down Dijon,maple syrup, and greek yogurt dip with flaxseed lavish, black bean brown basmati puree, spinach, lemon juice, wrapped and seared with prosciuttoCredit: Instagram
      Tyson Fury has previously hired in his own artisan butcher to load up on meat before fights
      Most Read In Boxing

      The expert cook even managed to make brussel sprouts look appetising in one social media post.
      Fury’s tastebuds would have been left tingling by Sriracha honey salmon laid out on a bed of quinoa and Greek rice and skewered chicken with tzatziki sauce was probably a big hit for the fighter.
      Team Fury were purring over a dish of strawberry and mango salsa with tomato and cilantro rice and chilli bean shrimp patty.
      And the once 28st food lover was allowed to pig out on a stunning pork dish of apple and cranberry stuffed loin with butternut squash, quinoa, walnuts, and spinach and topped with a citrus avocado vinaigrette.
      With Fury’s intense training leading to a calorie deficit, he would have been boosted by a meaty serving of dijon maple syrup seared wild salmon with rosemary, garlic, roasted sweet potatoes, and tomato, spinach and bean chilli.
      Lockhart even manages to make cauliflower appetising by jazzing it up with hummus patties with cilantro lime shrimp and rice, with macadamia nut, avocado, cilantro, lime sauce.
      And Fury might be able to deal with his next opponent a little easier after scoffing a healthy version of sausages.
      The Morecambe-based man had apple and chicken sausage with sweet potatoes, spinach quinoa, cooked in chicken broth with a side of baked kale chips and avocado.
      Even Fury’s favourite, a curry, makes the list, with Lockhart keen to make sure the boxer gets his red meat intake just right.
      Sriracha honey salmon is on the menu for the Gypsy KingCredit: Instagram More

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      in Soccer

      David Beckham’s amazing £6m Cotswolds mansion is a converted Grade II-listed farmhouse with plunge pool and tennis court

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      DAVID BECKHAM loves showing off his stunning £6million Cotswolds mansion on social media.It’s where he celebrated recent birthdays, accompanied by wife Victoria, 48, and three of their children, including once when he was treated to a bacon-and-egg sandwich with presents wrapped in paper adorned by his own face.
      David Beckham poses alongside wife Victoria and their four children outside their Cotswolds homeCredit: INSTAGRAM
      The Beckhams often show the property off on social mediaCredit: Instagram
      The main living area boasts a huge fireplace for the famous family to keep cosyCredit: Instagram
      An outdoor firepit is on hand for family barbecuesCredit: Instagram
      The stunning Cotswolds retreat was a Grade II-listed farmhouse that was converted into the sprawling mansion-like building.
      Purchased in December 2016 for a reported £6.15million, 47-year-old David and Victoria took their youngest children Harper, 11, Romeo, 20, and Cruz, 17, to the country when lockdown was imposed last year.
      The Beckhams can boast a lengthy property portfolio featuring a London townhouse, Dubai beach property and Miami penthouse.
      Home comforts abound inside their Cotswold abode with chandeliers and an enormous roaring fireplace.
      The kitchen hosts long tables, gorgeous stone floors and an Aga oven, leading to a vast outdoor eating area to match the one inside.
      A tennis court can be found outside with a garden that holds a plunge pool and an interesting looking outhouse that could be a sauna.
      Victoria held a party for her family to celebrate her 46th birthday last year at their homeCredit: Instagram
      There is a plunge pool, modelled here by Cruz, in the gardenCredit: Instagram
      The £6m property was purchased in December 2016
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      Meanwhile, SunSport exclusively revealed yesterday Beckham has landed yet another multi-million pound pay day for fronting a new Qatar World Cup advertising campaign.
      The ex-England captain is pocketing a seven figure sum with former NFL ace Peyton Manning, 46, to star in TV and print ads for sponsors Doritos.
      Becks and his American Football counterpart shot the campaign in the UK this week.
      The spoof jokes about the differences between the two forms of “football”.
      A source said: “This is a megabucks campaign for two of the most famous sportsmen in the world, centred around the planet’s biggest tournament.
      “It’s huge money for both of them — but fronting anything with a Qatar link is always going to have an element of controversy.”
      Becks’ wrapping paper featured his own faceCredit: Instagram
      Victoria’s birthday sarnie for her husband with special message in tomato sauce More

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      Inside Lionel Messi’s £23million property empire, with PSG star owning mansions in Barcelona, Ibiza and Miami

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      LIONEL MESSI has lived in some of the world’s most exclusive and luxurious homes.But that goes with the territory when you are the world’s most successful footballer and boast a £524million fortune.
      Lionel Messi has lived in homes worth a combined £23mCredit: AFP
      Messi is believed to rent an apartment in Villes de Neuilly in ParisCredit: Alamy
      The Argentinian legend, 35, currently stars for PSG and is reportedly renting an abode in Villes de Neuilly in Paris for £18,000-per-month.
      And over the years he’s had mansions in Barcelona and Miami. While recently he added Ibiza and Rosario to his property portfolio.
      SunSport takes a peek through Messi’s houses worth around £23million.
      Barcelona
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      Where it all began, Messi was a king in Catalonia – and he lived like one too.
      His digs there were located in the exclusive suburb of Castelldefels – where the richest of the rich reside.
      It boasted astonishing sea views, and was in a no-fly zone – meaning planes had to deviate their routes around it.
      And it was perfectly situated – just a 12mile drive from the Camp Nou.
      Messi’s Barcelona home was found in the exclusive suburb of Castelldefels
      Just a 12mile drive from the Camp Nou, it was perfectly situated
      Being in a no-fly zone, Messi was able to get plenty of sleep at his homeCredit: Instagram
      The garden boasted a small football pitch for Messi to hone his skillsCredit: Instagram
      In one of the rooms Messi has all the shirts he’s collected from opposition playersCredit: Instagram
      Most read in Football
      Messi, wife Antonella Roccuzzo and their three children also had plenty to love about the living area – from a small football pitch, a swimming pool, an indoor gym and even a playground.
      He was surrounded by good company too – with close pal Luiz Suarez once living nearby.
      It’s not known if he kept the property or sold it when he left for Paris. It is valued at the £5.5million mark.
      Miami
      In 2020, the diminutive footballer laid down roots in the US – splashing £5million on a massive Miami apartment.
      This, of course, sparked the rumour mill into overdrive with reports suggesting Messi was going to embark on a new journey in the MLS with David Beckham’s Inter Miami.
      The remarkable property sits on Sunny Isles Beach with beautiful views of the ocean – just ten miles from Miami Beach.
      The luxury condo has four bedrooms, four bathrooms, 360-degree views of the stunning Miami skyline and even a 1,000-bottle wine cellar in 511 square metres of indoor space.
      As well as its own private pool, the apartment boasts access to six pools in total.
      There is also a spa, fitness centre, yoga studio, children’s playhouse and a champagne bar in the complex.
      In 2020, Messi splashed £5m on a luxury Miami condoCredit: Regalia Miami Condos
      The kitchen has ample space for family diningCredit: Regalia Miami Condos
      Ocean views surrounded the luxury apartmentCredit: Regalia Miami Condos
      Messi reportedly put the apartment up for sale last yearCredit: Regalia Miami Condos
      And just to top it off, a private chef is on-site for when residents want to line their stomachs before delving into the expansive wine cellar.
      However, last year it was reported that Messi has put the property on the market.
      Ibiza
      From Miami to Ibiza, Messi’s recent addition is a £9.5million holiday home in the Balearic island, to go with his hotel there.
      Alas, it’s going to need a bit of work.
      It has been said that the mansion has planning problems and has not yet been granted a certificate of occupancy – a document issued by a local government agency certifying it is in a liveable condition.
      The planning issues are linked to the construction of several rooms in the property’s garage before Messi’s purchase according to a report by newspaper Periodico de Ibiza.
      Messi and wife Antonela Roccuzzo regularly spend their summers in IbizaCredit: Instagram @antonelaroccuzzo
      In 2018, Messi bought the Hotel MiM Ibiza and SpaCredit: Instagram @hotelesvive
      It is believed he may have to demolish the rooms that did not form part of the original plans in the new-build property.
      Messi will be hopeful the work will be done next summer – given he loves spending time in Ibiza when the season’s over.
      Rosario
      Home is where the heart is, even though Messi left Rosario when he was just 13 to follow his football dream in Barcelona.
      At the turn of the year, he is believed to have splashed £3million on a mansion called ‘The Fortress’ on the outskirts of where he was born.
      The enormous space has three adjoining plots of land and can be found in a gated community.
      There is a massive cinema, a fully-equipped gym, as well as an underground garage for 15 cars. Perfect to house Messi’s mega car collection.
      Argentinian media claim the house has between 20-25 rooms and a playroom that is the size of the whole top floor.
      This year, Messi reportedly splashed £3m on a gated home in Rosario
      Messi could retire in his Argentinian home with beauty AntonellaCredit: Instagram @antoroccuzzo10
      While reports also added that visitors will see a giant floor to ceiling portrait of the back of Messi wearing his famous No10 shirt for Argentina.
      Dad Jorge was reportedly in charge of designing the property – to let his son concentrate on his football career.
      By the sounds of it, it appears to be where he plans to retire. More

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      in Soccer

      Meet wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri who joined Arsenal at nine and is now youngest ever Premier League star at 15 yrs 181 days

      by

      WITH the clock ticking down as Arsenal led Brentford 3-0 at the Gtech Community Stadium, manager Mikel Arteta looked to his bench at wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri and gave him the nod to come on.It was reward for a fine training session on Saturday, as the talented midfielder made his debut in the 91st minute for the final moments of a match already won.
      Ethan Nwaneri is the youngest ever Premier League playerCredit: Alamy
      Nwaneri came on for Fabio Vieira against Brentford in the final stagesCredit: Getty
      As he ran onto the pitch, Arteta whispered in his ear: “Congratulations and enjoy it.”
      His appearance at just 15 years and 181 days shattered Harvey Elliot’s record of youngest ever player to play in the Premier League.
      While the away faithful couldn’t help but rub salt into the wounds as they hilariously chanted in the direction of the home fans: “How s*** must you be, he’s only 15” and “he’s got school in the morning”.
      With the Monday off because of the Queen’s funeral and a national bank holiday, Nwaneri will have to wait to share his experience with his school pals at St John’s Prep and Senior School in Enfield, north London.
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      But his story has been quietly bubbling away as he’s risen through the ranks at Hale End.
      Academy star
      It was only last year that Nwaneri made his debut for Arsenal’s U18’s as a 14-year-old.
      Even better than that, he scored a superb solo goal that had Gooners take note and share on social media – calling him the future of their club.
      Most read in Football
      Born in 2007, he arrived in this world a year after the Emirates Stadium opened.
      He joined Arsenal at the age of nine when he was still in primary school.
      Earlier this month, he made his debut for the U21’s against Blackburn. He scored.
      Also in August, he came on as a sub for England’s U17’s. No surprises, he scored again.
      It’s led to academy coaches encouraging Arteta to carefully utilise Nwaneri with the first team.
      “We have been told in the last year or two from academy coaches and from Edu that we have certain talents that we need to look after,” Arteta told talkSPORT.

      Nwaneri in action for the U21’s earlier this monthCredit: Getty
      Mikel Arteta was impressed by Nwaneri in training on the eve of the Brentford gameCredit: Getty
      “And the best way we need to reach something is to send a strong message that it’s not going to be about the age, the age doesn’t tell you a good player from a bad player.
      “When you look at that boy I have a feeling that he has something special and now he makes a step forward and now maybe he needs ten steps backwards… it’s a nice moment.”
      Injuries forced Arteta’s hand
      Injuries to first team personnel, including Martin Odegaard, Mohamed Elneny, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Emile Smith Rowe forced Arteta’s hand to name Nwaneri on the bench.
      Arteta said after the match: “He has trained a couple of times with us and I had a feeling yesterday (Saturday) that if the opportunity came I would do it.
      “I think it sends a strong message about who we are as a club. I told him he would be with us and he had to be ready. He is ready.”
      Amazingly, the speed of his promotion came before he has a profile on the first team page of the club’s official website.
      It was also reported because of his age, Nwaneri had to get changed in a room away from the first team.
      In the last month, Nwaneri has broken into Arsenal’s U21’sCredit: Getty
      Gabriel Martinelli points towards Nwaneri as Arsenal supporters applaud their teamCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
      Nwaneri is destined for a huge future at ArsenalCredit: Getty
      At the final whistle, Nwaneri was pushed towards the away section by goalie Aaron Ramsdale to soak up his moment.
      Brazilian youngster Gabriel Martinelli pointed towards Nwaneri’s direction as the players lapped up their supporter’s applause.
      You get the feeling that will be one of many salutes he will be given as his Arsenal career progresses. More