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      Pep Guardiola’s daughter Maria models bikinis, once dated ex-Spurs ace Dele Alli and is a huge Man City fan

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      SHE is the daughter of the best manager in the world – and she is branching out on her own.Stunning Maria Guardiola, 21, is building her own brand as dad Pep continues to assemble a team he hopes will win the Champions League this year.
      Maria Guardiola is the stunning daughter of Man City manager Pep GuardiolaCredit: Instagram @maria.guardiola
      Stunning Maria has amassed over 380,000 followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram @maria.guardiola
      Bikini model Maria promotes swimwear brands onlineCredit: Instagram
      On Instagram, the gorgeous brunette (recently turned blonde) has become a social media influencer – drawing over 380,000 followers to her account.
      Most recently, she was chosen to model bikinis for a swimwear brand, which she did with some style.
      But she first came to our attention when she was seen snogging former Spurs ace Dele Alli on a rooftop bar.
      The die-hard Man City fan has also joined her father on the pitch at the Etihad to celebrate a win – while Erling Haaland is said to be her favourite player.
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      Bikini model
      Maria caused quite a stir among her fan base when she showed off her amazing bikini bod for an up-and-coming swimwear range.
      Wearing a skimpy bikini from iBilovesyou in a short video, the Barcelona-born beauty briefly flutters her eyes at the camera before turning away.
      The short snippet was enough to get her social media followers excited.
      Most read in Football
      One follower wrote: “Once a queen always a queen.”
      Another particularly enthusiastic fan said: “Wow delicious sensuality beauty I love you.”
      The video followed a picture weeks earlier when Maria, with dark hair, posed in a black bikini in a swimming pool.
      Dalliance with Dele
      Last year, Maria was spotted with ex-Spurs ace Dele Alli in a romantic clinch.
      As we exclusively revealed, the pair didn’t care who saw them as they snogged each other at Cloud 9 rooftop bar in front of the DJ booth.
      A few months later, they were spotted getting lunch at trendy Mayfair hotspot Novikov, before grabbing a coffee at Starbucks.
      However, six months later it was reported that Alli had split with Maria.
      Instead, he was said to have moved on with Made In Chelsea star Nicole Berry.
      Last year, Maria was spotting kissing Dele AlliCredit: Instagram @maria.guardiola
      Alli and Maria snogging on the rooftop of Cloud 9
      Maria was reportedly dumped by Alli after just six monthsCredit: Instagram @maria.guardiola
      Cultured Maria enjoys a lavish lifestyleCredit: Instagram @maria.guardiola
      C’mon Citeh!
      It could be a case of, where her father coaches she will support.
      But, Maria has been very vocal about her love of Man City, a club that dad Pep feels completely at home with.
      And she has, in fact, treaded on the hallowed turf at the Etihad.
      After Man City defeated Leicester in a league in 2019, Maria was spotted hugging her dad on the sidelines at the final whistle.
      She is also reportedly a big fan of City new boy, Erling Haaland – who her dad can’t stop raving about as he scores goals galore for the Premier League giants.
      Maria will have plenty to celebrate if Pep and Erling fire City to their first ever Champions League trophy in this campaign.
      When she’s not enjoying a luxury holiday, Maria is a devout Man City famCredit: Instagram @maria.guardiola
      Basking in her dad’s success, Maria has helped Pep celebrate gloryCredit: PA:Press Association
      Maria was spotted on the sidelines congratulating her dad after a Man City winCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Maria Guardiola daughter of PepCredit: Instagram @maria.guardiola More

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      Tottenham billionaire owner Joe Lewis has an amazing £113m superyacht, which features a full sized tennis court

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      WHEN you have an estimated wealth of around £4.3billion, you aren’t going to skimp on boys’ toys.And billionaire Spurs owner Joe Lewis is testament to that fact – owning an astonishing £113million superyacht which measures 321-feet long.
      Spurs owner Joe Lewis owns a £113m yacht called AvivaCredit: Tom Stockill
      The Aviva, once seen on the River Thames in 2018, is 321-feet longCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      The East End-born businessman is believed to live on board the Aviva, once spotted docked on the Thames, which has been referred to as his mobile office.
      Better still, it has everything an 85-year-old would need in terms of amenities, including the very first full-size indoor tennis court ever installed on a yacht.
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      NEW BALLS, PLEASE
      Lewis does not need to  be on dry land to get his tennis fix.
      After all, he has an incredible tennis court built into the Aviva – the first of its kind – that he and his guests can play on.
      At 20 metres long and 10 metres wide, the court area goes up to 6.65 metres high.
      And it’s not just for tennis, as the yacht’s designer Reymond Langton explained.
      “It is not only a lifestyle change for the owner but also for the crew as this is also the largest gym of any yacht,” the British design studio told Yacht Harbour.
      Most read in football
      The superyacht is the first boat to have a full-size indoor tennis court
      Crew on board the Aviva have been known to enjoy the tennis court found in the bottom of the boatCredit: Abeking Rasmussen
      “The crew is encouraged to play with the owner and guests and when the court is not in use for padel (tennis), the net can be removed and the crew plays football and use other exercise equipment in the space.
      “It is after all a sports hall.”A MOBILE OFFICE
      Lewis, who made his millions in currency trading after running several restaurants and nightclubs from the 1960s, spends most of the year on his boat.
      For the Spurs boss, it’s not just a place where he can enjoy a luxurious life, the Aviva is perfect for working remotely.
      “Communication and information are critical to me.” Lewis said in an interview with regards to his requirements for his floating office.
      “To be effective, I need reliable phones and internet, these have improved much over the past few years, but, it is too expensive, too slow and not consistently reliable.
      “Aviva is more than an office; it is also my home for much of the year. So for me, it is relaxing working from home, wherever Aviva may be in the world.”
      It can also be used to entertain, just as it was when he invited the Spurs team on board in 2013 during their tour of the Bahamas.
      Then-skipper Michael Dawson said: “I had never met him before, so it was nice to go over there and a great experience.
      “What a really nice guy. And that yacht is unreal! But he’s just a normal guy. You could chat to him about anything. He tunes into all the games, he loves it. We just sat there chatting. He made us feel so welcome over there. It was relaxed. A lot of team-bonding together.”
      Lewis lives on the Aviva for most of the yearCredit: Abeking Rasmussen
      Lewis has called the Aviva his modern day office in the pastCredit: Abeking Rasmussen
      Dotted around its decks are sun loungersCredit: Abeking Rasmussen
      BAHAMAS-READY
      It’s mostly in the Bahamas where Lewis – among the richest men in the UK – spends his days as a tax exile.
      And the Aviva, which can house up to 16 guests, is fully equipped for the Caribbean lifestyle.
      The exterior relaxation area features a circular set of lounging pads on the sun deck, as well as smaller lounging pads towards the yacht’s bridge.
      A cool swimming platform can also open up into the sea, that means you can have your own beach area with Aviva’s tenders coming out of side doors.
      Talking about boys’ toys, the superyacht even has a speedboat and jet skis on board.
      The Aviva is Bahamas-ready, has its own speedboat and a swimming platform opens up into the seaCredit: Abeking Rasmussen
      The lower deck boasts circular lounging areasCredit: Abeking Rasmussen
      PERFORMANCE
      The German-built Aviva, the 46th longest yacht in the world, took three years to complete.
      And it’s certainly not lacking in spec, either.
      Powered by an eco-friendly drive system, it can reach a top speed of 20 knots.
      The unique hull design that comes together with an electric propulsions system means that less fuel is used.
      Unbelievably, the Aviva can cruise at 11 knots purely on electric power only.
      Now, where can we get one?
      The Aviva can be powered using just electronic powerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      The Aviva is the 46th longest yacht in the worldCredit: Abeking Rasmussen
      German-built, the Aviva took three years to completeCredit: Abeking Rasmussen More

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      Ex-Man Utd star Ramon Calliste was dubbed ‘the next Giggs’, but now owns luxury watch business making £5m a year

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      BIG things were expected of Ramon Calliste.  The former Man United starlet was labelled the next Ryan Giggs and trained with the first team alongside the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney.
      Ramon Calliste is owner of Global Watches, a company that rakes in around £5m a year
      Delivering a bespoke service, Global Watches sells high-end time pieces
      However, when it didn’t work out at the Red Devils the former Welsh wizard moved onto Liverpool and became their top scorer in reserve football.
      Frustrated with his lack of first team opportunities, and taking on advice from then-Wales manager John Toshack, he moved to Scunthorpe in 2006.
      But in a cruel twist of fate during his first preseason game Ramon dislocated his ankle, cracking a bone and severely damaging his ligaments.
      After bouncing around at a few clubs, including Farnborough and Cambridge City, Ramon was conscious that the horror injury meant he’d never return to the same level again.
      TIME FOR CHANGE
      He turned his attentions to watches, and in 2013 launched Global Watches – a company that sells high-end timepieces, including Rolex, Audemars Piguet and Hublot.
      Ramon’s business is now making around £5MILLION-per-year, selling products to footballers, celebrities and other high-rollers.
      “When I realised football wasn’t going to give me the life I desired, it was about setting up something else and moving fast,” Ramon, 36, told SunSport.
      “I started to get involved in watches through contacts I had in the world of football.
      Global Watches lists timepieces for tens of thousands of pounds
      With a base in North London, business is booming for Global WatchesCredit: Global Watches
      “Once I saw it could become a viable business, I set up Global Watches in 2013 and it’s become a really strong company that’s now turning over millions.
      “The idea is to keep it growing and hopefully sell the company in five or ten years time, just like Watchfinder did recently.”
      BACKED BY FOOTBALLERS
      Ramon admitted that he was a complete novice when it came to setting up a business.
      But it helped having a contacts book of footballers, who valued his trust because of his past playing career.
      “Running any business is very difficult,” Ramon said.
      “When you’re dealing with high-value goods, there’s a lot of compliance and regulations to bear in mind.
      “We do everything by the book here and it’s very important to be clear on what you’re doing.
      “I was lucky it was very lucrative from the beginning. Some watches we sell can go from £250,000.
      Limited edition and rare Richard Mille watches can be found at Global WatchesCredit: Instagram
      Former footballer Ramon Calliste launched Global Watches in 2013Credit: Global Watches
      Global Watches sell pieces for as much as £250,000Credit: Global Watches
      “Having my footballing history has also helped.
      “I dealt with footballers in the beginning, selling them watches and I already had that trust there.
      “Even today, clients come online and they see it’s me and they feel comfortable buying from me.
      “There might be other companies that are stronger than mine, but because I played the game it does help the business.
      “We have a bespoke service where we go out to the clients, and it’s not just footballers.
      “We started with an office in Mayfair. Now, we’ve got a shop front in North London.
      “When you can take your inventory to a room of footballers, perhaps ten millionaires, that’s better for all concerned.
      “They prefer that service and it’s an easier chance to sell goods
      Ramon Calliste was able to use his footballing contacts to ensure Global Watches started off successfully
      .
      Didier Drogba is just one of many satisfied clients that have bought watches from Global WatchesCredit: Instagram, @globalwatches
      “I have a great relationship with the players and make sure they are looked after.”IT’S A BIG EARNER
      On a regular day, Ramon revealed he sells watches from around £50,000-£70,000.
      Occasionally, he gets a £150,000-£250,000 sale in a market where clients can make money from pieces that are collector’s items.
      “They appreciate, watches have become commodities,” Ramon said.
      “It’s nice for my clients to make money if they’ve bought a watch from me, if they want to sell the watch in the future.
      “I see myself as a consultant. I know watches inside out and try to advise them on what to buy.
      “So sometimes when my clients come to me with what they’ve want, I will tell them straight if it’s a good or bad idea.
      “I don’t want any of my clients to lose lots of money, when they come to sell their timepiece.”
      Some watches are collector’s items that appreciate with age, Global Watches owner Ramon Calliste revealedCredit: Global Watches
      Ramon Calliste hopes to make Global Watches a world-renowned brandCredit: Global Watches
      Going forward, Ramon hopes to open more stores to ensure Global Watches becomes a worldwide renowned name.
      He’s also looking at getting into the property business and hopes to retire by the age of 50.
      BOY WONDER
      Looking back at his football career, Ramon spoke of how it all began without any regrets.
      “I was watched by Man United scout Tony Hopkins for two years when I was at a high school in Cardiff.
      “Originally, I signed for Coventry, but I didn’t feel happy there.
      “I got picked for the Wales under-19s aged 13, and Coventry stopped me from playing.
      “I found out that was because someone could’ve poached me if they’d saw me play and I impressed other scouts.
      “I got out of that contract, went back to school and then I was off to Manchester United in 2000.
      In 2000, Ramon Calliste signed a deal with Manchester United
      A promising talent, Welshman Ramon Calliste was once compared to Ryan GiggsCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      “When I got to Old Trafford I met Sir Alex Ferguson, which was an incredible experience.
      “Seeing everything for the first time, I went into the famous room where everyone meets him.
      “It was a special, I wasn’t fazed by much when I was young, but he had the aura of a great man.”
      ROONEY, RONALDO AND BALE
      Ramon didn’t play for the United first team, but he got his chance to train with some of their superstars.
      “We didn’t always train with the first team, but sometimes we’d have five-a-side games.
      “I aspired to train with them permanently, and it was amazing when I did get the opportunity.
      “I trained with Rooney and Ronaldo, which was a big deal.”
      He also saw Gareth Bale’s potential first-hand and knew straight away the winger was a star in the making.
      While he didn’t always train with the first team, Ramon Calliste did occasionally play alongside Wayne Rooney and Cristiano RonaldoCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      But now, Ramon Calliste would rather shift watches over playing football
      “I remember seeing Gareth Bale when we had an under-21 Wales training session at Wrexham’s training ground.
      “I didn’t really know who he was at the time, but knew he was at Southampton.
      “But after training we were having a kickabout and I could see him practising free kicks.
      “You could see from that moment that he was a special player. It was great to play alongside him and some other of the world’s great players.”
      INJURY WRECKED HIS CHANCE
      After Ramon was released from Old Trafford, he starred for Liverpool’s reserves.
      He was their leading goalscorer in the 2005-2006 season, but left for Scunthorpe for first team opportunities.
      “It wasn’t initially what I wanted to do, but Toshack told me I needed to play competitive football if I wanted to break into the Wales first team.
      “I thought, let’s do this and took a contract. Preseason I got injured straight away and I never really recovered from it.”
      Global Watches are hoping to expand by launching more shops around the UKCredit: Instagram, @globalwatches
      Ramon Calliste has no regrets that his football career was cut short by injuryCredit: Instagram, @globalwatches
      Ramon’s horrendous dislocated ankle injury with ligament damage and broken bone to boot still plagues the entrepreneur.
      “I have trouble with that ankle today,” he revealed.
      “I see a specialist regularly and I’m probably going to have to have another operation.
      “If I would’ve had the injury at Man United and Liverpool, I might have been alright.
      “But because I had the treatment at Scunthorpe, I don’t think I got the right medical attention.”
      In 2009, Ramon had decided he’d had enough. Spells at Cambridge City and West London Saracens in the Middlesex County Football League followed.
      Man United released Ramon Calliste when his contract expired in 2005Credit: Getty – Contributor
      Ramon Calliste in action in a reserve game against Liverpool at Man United’s Carrington Training GroundCredit: Getty – Contributor
      HE LOST HEART
      But by his mid-2os, his heart wasn’t in it.
      “To come back, I would’ve had to look at going into semi-pro.
      “That just wasn’t for me. From being the creme de la creme at the top and then being at the bottom of the chain, it wasn’t something that’s in my genetics.
      “If I wanted to be involved with something, I want it to be the best. I thought, at that point football was just a distraction and I needed to build a real life.
      “In the end, football just wasn’t meant for me. With all the ability I had, it just wasn’t my destiny.
      “I wouldn’t have met my wife, I wouldn’t have met my children because I wouldn’t have come to London at the time I did. That alone is the most important thing for me.
      Setting up Global Watches was Ramon Calliste’s destiny
      Global Watches has given former footballer Ramon Calliste a life he couldn’t have had playing the gameCredit: Global Watches
      “You have to go through a hell of a lot of steps to get through life. I don’t regret anything that happened to me in football, I learned a lot.
      “I still have great friends from that world, but it wasn’t to be.”
      Visit the Global Watches website here More

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      Ivan Toney’s amazing tattoos, including family portraits, his squad number, Heath Ledger as The Joker and a cute kitten

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      IT’S a new experience, so maybe Ivan Toney will get a new tattoo to celebrate.The in-form Brentford striker, 26, has been called up to the England squad by Gareth Southgate for the upcoming Nations League matches against Italy and Germany.
      Ivan Toney shows off his impressive body inkCredit: Getty
      Should he score, he might just whip off his top and reveal his amazing ink.
      Toney’s body is a real work of art – and many of his tattoos have personal meanings.
      Here’s a selection and what they all mean.
      Family portraits
      Aside from his football, family is important to Toney.
      Read more in football
      Proudly painted on his abs are portraits of his grandparents Elma and Benjamin.
      Next to them is his son, Ivan Jr.
      Toney’s grandparents Elma and Benjamin feature on his torso, as does his son Ivan Jr
      Ivan’s mantra
      Toney has reached the heights coming up through clubs including Northampton Town, Scunthorpe United and Peterborough United.
      It’s meant he’s had to work hard to get there. Written across his chest are the words: ‘Suffer the pain of discipline or suffer the pain of regret.’
      They are words of motivation to continue to give his all.
      Written under his neck and across his chest is Toney’s mantra
      The Joker
      Nothing to do with his favourite film character.
      But featured on the back of his bicep is a portrait of Heath Ledger’s The Joker from The Dark Knight.
      Toney has once said: “I’m confident, a winner, a joker and someone who will help anyone.”
      So, clearly it alludes to his care-free personality.
      The Joker tattoo is a reflection of Toney’s personalityCredit: Getty
      Lion
      Afraid of no one, Toney plays with heart on his sleeve. He’s a true lion, which is why he has a lion with a crown on his arm.
      The lion is, of course, the king of the jungle, while the hotshot forward is the king of the Gtech Community Stadium
      Written with the tattoo is the motto: “If he bleeds the same blood, never fear him.”
      A lion tattoo on his arm depicts Toney’s courageous nature
      Mask
      A riddle – on Toney’s forearm is a portrait of a woman taking a mask off.
      The mask has a smile on it, but underneath the mask the woman is wearing a frown.
      It suggests there are two sides to everyone – and when you scratch the surface you don’t know what someone is feeling deep down.
      The masked woman on Toney’s arm has a unique meaning
      Most read in Football
      Squad number
      For the Bees, Toney wears the No17.
      It’s also the digits emblazoned front and centre on his chest.
      He’s had the number since his days at Peterborough, so it’s been lucky for him.
      Kitten and Tiger
      A unique inking of a cat staring into a puddle and seeing the reflection of a tiger is also found on Toney’s torso.
      Hotshot Toney has been called up by England
      “It shows it doesn’t matter how others see you,” he explained to The Guardian about its meaning last year.
      “If you see yourself as a winner, you’re going to be a winner, you’re going to make sure you become a winner. If you see yourself as fearless, you’ll be fearless.
      “I think that goes far, not just in football but in everything. If you want to achieve something, it doesn’t matter what others think, you have got to make sure you achieve it.”
      Ticking timer
      On the inner bicep of his left arm fans may have spotted a ticking timer etched on his body.
      ‘Direction is more important than speed. Some people are going nowhere fast,’ can be read on it.
      Toney has had to be patient for his time in the spotlight, but is now reaping the rewards and heading in the right direction.
      On the inner bicep of Toney’s left arm is a ticking timerCredit: Getty
      ‘Fearless’
      Exactly what Toney is – and marries well with his Lion tattoo.
      Drawn on the side of his torso is the word, ‘Fearless’.
      He once told the Daily Mail, “I think that one speaks for itself.”
      Crown
      Fit for a king – which Toney is.
      Below his right ear, the Three Lions call-up has a crown tattooed on the side of his neck.
      While he hasn’t commented on it, it was best seen last season as Brentford entertained Chelsea.
      We can only assume that it is befitting of his current status – and as England’s new striker.
      A crown is befitting of Toney’s status as king of the Gtech Community StadiumCredit: Rex More

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      Biggest release clauses in football as Gavi becomes fifth player protected by one BILLION Euros loophole

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      FOOTBALL clubs today will do anything to keep hold of their prized possessions.So they hand their stars huge contracts with hefty release clauses inserted in them to put off any potential buyers and/or get a massive transfer fee.
      Former Chelsea star Andreas Christensen has an instant £430MILLION release clause in his contract at new club BarcelonaCredit: PA
      But who would be the most costliest?
      It certainly isn’t Andreas Christensen the Barcelona new boy who has had a whopping £430million release clause slapped onto that deal. He doesn’t even feature in the top ten!
      10. Brahim Diaz, Real Madrid, £641m
      The Spanish midfielder, 22, spent his youth career at Malaga and then Manchester City, who he made his debut for in 2016.
      But, with competition for places fierce, Diaz was bought by Real Madrid for £16m.
      Read more in sport
      However, he’s flattered to deceive and his £641m release clause certainly doesn’t appear to be justified.
      The last two seasons have been spent on loan at AC Milan, where he just won Serie A.
      Real Madrid flop Brahim Diaz has been with AC Milan on loan, but they won’t pay his release clauseCredit: Getty
      9. Luka Modric, Real Madrid, £641m
      The former Ballon d’Or winner is getting on a bit at 36, so you’ll be hard-pressed to find anyone willing to pay £641m for his services – despite his quality.
      Most read in Football
      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST NEW CUSTOMER SIGN UP DEALS
      Modric has committed his future to the club, recently signing a one-year extension.
      The Croatian legend is a proven winner – having lifted the Champions League trophy five times.
      Serial winner Luka Modric recently extended his stay at the Bernabeu until next yearCredit: Getty
      8. Federico Valverde, Real Madrid, £641m
      A key man in the middle of the park for the LaLiga giants, the Uruguayan’s worth is obvious to Carlo Ancelotti’s men.
      Mind you, £641m for a tough-tackling defensive midfielder would be an extortionate amount to pay.
      An extension he signed in 2021 will keep him at the club until 2027, when the 23-year-old’s release clause might just rise.
      Federico Valverde has become one of the first names on the team sheet at Real MadridCredit: Reuters
      7. Antoine Griezmann, Barcelona, £685m
      The French forward’s future is up in the air, as is the fee that could be paid for him.
      Barcelona loaned Griezmann out on a two-year deal to former club Atletico Madrid, who have a £34m option to make the move permanent for the 31-year-old next summer.
      That’s far less than the £685m release clause Barca insisted upon in his contract, when they signed him from Atletico for £108m in 2019.
      Antoine Griezmann has been on loan at Atletico Madrid, who have an agreement to buy with Barcelona for far less than his release clauseCredit: Getty
      6. David Alaba, Real Madrid, £726m
      The Spanish champions snapped up Alaba in 2021 on a free transfer – giving the 30-year-old a five-year contract worth around £17m a season.
      They then protected their investment by slapping a £726m clause in the deal, that doesn’t expire until 2026.
      Previously with Bayern Munich, Alaba enjoyed a successful first season with the club – winning LaLiga and the Champions League.
      David Alaba could cost as much as £726m, according to his release clauseCredit: Getty
      5. Ronald Araujo, Barcelona, £846m
      The future of Uruguayan defender Araujo, 23, was anyone’s guess until this summer, when he finally penned a new deal with the Catalans.
      Astonishingly, they insisted on a £846m release clause that deterred interested parties, including Liverpool, Man City and Man Utd.
      “FC Barcelona and the player Ronald Araujo have reached an agreement to renew his contract until 30 June 2026. The buyout clause stipulated is set at €1bn,” the club revealed.
      Ronald Araujo was a Premier League target until penning a new deal at the Camp NouCredit: Getty
      4. Karim Benzema, Real Madrid, £846m
      Arguably the best player in the world right now, Benzema signed a new deal with Real Madrid in 2021 that will see him stay at the Bernabeu until 2023, when he will be 35.
      But, if he’s still scoring like he is at the moment – at the rate of 44 goals a season in a Double-winning campaign – that will surely be extended again.
      Will it dwarf the £846m current release fee? Don’t bet against it.
      Karim Benzema has a whopping £846m release clause in his deal that expires next yearCredit: Getty
      3. Pedri, Barcelona, £846m
      The future is bright for Barcelona, who recently tied up teen superstar Gavi with a £86m release clause in his deal.
      Before that, it was Pedri who inked an astonishing contract last year at just 18 – that will keep him at the club until 2026.
      That is, unless, someone wants to pay £846million to buy him.
      Seeing he’s on a reported £38,000-per-week, you could say Barcelona are winning the club versus player battle.
      Barcelona wonderkid Pedri is one of the most talented youngsters in the gameCredit: Getty
      Read More on The Sun
      2. Ansu Fati, Barcelona, £846m
      In 2021, the jewel of Barcelona’s La Masia academy – Fati – agreed a mega six-year contract.
      Like Pedri, he became the second player at the club to have a ridiculously inflated price tag put on his head.
      However, he’s struggled for injuries ever since – after inheriting Lionel Messi’s No10 shirt.
      Considered one of the best young players in the world, at 19 he has the world at his feet.
      Ansu Fati has struggled for form since signing his mega six-year contract with a staggering £846m release clauseCredit: Getty
      1. Gavi, Barcelona, £846m
      The 18-year-old wonderkid joined Barcelona team-mates Pedri, Fati and Araujo to become the lastest star with a €1billion buyout clause after signing a new four-year deal.
      Barca were keen to insert a massive release clause in his contract after the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool showed interest.
      All three clubs wanted to take advantage of Gavi’s previous buyout clause which was just £42m.
      Gavi joins Fati, Aruajo and Pedri in boasting a €1billion release clauseCredit: Getty More

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      Bayern Munich wonderkid Mathys Tel is the youngest goalscorer for club in Bundesliga history and broke a French record

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      WHAT a way to announce yourself on the big stage.Last weekend, at the tender age of just 17 years and 136 days, Bayern Munich wonderkid Mathys Tel became the youngest goalscorer in the club’s Bundesliga history.
      French wonderkid Mathys Tel celebrates after his opening goal against StuttgartCredit: AP
      Tel’s strike made history – making him Bayern’s youngest ever Bundesliga scorerCredit: Getty
      His strike against Stuttgart came just 10 days after he scored in the 5-0 rout of Viktoria Koln in the DFB Pokal – again becoming the youngest player to find the net in a competitive match.
      Tel moved to the Bavarians in July for a staggering £26million from French club Rennes, after he played just 49 MINUTES in Ligue 1.
      Exploding on the scene
      A former youth academy at Paris FC, Tel began his professional career at Rennes.
      After starring in the youth teams, he was fast-tracked to their B team, where he scored six goals in as many games.
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      Frighteningly quick, a lethal finisher, and standing at 6ft tall with a leggy frame he has drawn comparisons to a France and Arsenal legend who is also of Guadeloupean descent.
      ‘The new Thierry Henry’ has been suggested, although he will have some work on his hands to live up that billing.
      Breakthrough
      In 2021-22, Tel was given his chance in Rennes’ first team.
      He made his debut in August last year, coming on as a substitute in a 1-1 draw with Brest.
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      His appearance at just 16 years and 110 days made him the youngest ever player to appear in Ligue 1.
      It shattered Eduardo Camavinga’s record – who was also given his opportunity at Rennes.
      Tel did not score in his 49 minutes but his exploits for France’s U17s – who won the Euros at that age level in 2022 – got him noticed by the world’s top clubs.
      He netted three times in the competition as Les Bleus swept all before them.
      It was inevitable a big move would come – but perhaps more surprising it was made so soon.
      Last season, Tel became youngest player to appear in Ligue 1Credit: Getty
      Tel’s performances at the U17 European Championships earned him plenty of plauditsCredit: Getty
      Getting off the mark – Tel celebrates his first ever goal for Bayern against Viktoria KolnCredit: Getty
      ‘One of the greatest talents in Europe’
      Back in July, Bayern Munich beat off competition to lure Tel away from France.
      They paid a record fee for him – somewhere in the region of £26milion – that eclipsed Borussia Dortmund’s signing of Jude Bellingham from Birmingham and made him the most expensive 17-year-old in history. Another record.
      He inked a five-year deal with the Germans, with both parties delighted with the transfer.
      Tel told the club’s official website: “FC Bayern is one of the best teams in the world. I’m really looking forward to this great challenge and will give everything for this club. 
      “The talks with Hasan Salihamidžić and those responsible at FC Bayern really impressed me and made me quickly realize that I absolutely wanted to go to Munich.”
      Salihamidžić was equally as buoyed by the capture.
      He said: “He is one of the greatest talents in Europe. He is fast, has strong technique and is a versatile striker.
      Barcelona defender Marcos Alonso fights Tel for the ball in a Champions League clashCredit: Getty
      Tel is rated as one of the best young strikers in EuropeCredit: Getty
      “We followed him for a long time and this time we managed to convince him to come to Munich. We are proud of this because many teams courted him.” 
      Already, Tel is showing why Bayern paid big money to sign him with two goals in five games.
      With the sale of Robert Lewandowski, a new hero is needed. And it looks like the Bundesliga champions have found their man for years to come. More

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      Top 25 Barcelona youth players from La Masia academy, including Lionel Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, Fabregas and Mauro Icardi

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      IN 1979, Barcelona decided they wanted a steady stream of homegrown talents to one day blossom in their first team.They launched their now famed La Masia (Catalan for “The Farmhouse”), a state-of-the-art academy designed to train youngsters the Barca way, and has since produced a slew of top-class footballers.
      Lionel Messi (in the mask), Cesc Fabregas (back row, second right) and Gerard Pique (back row, third left) are Barcelona youth productsCredit: PA:Press Association
      They were schooled at Barcelona’s famous La Masia AcademyCredit: Simon Jones – The Sun
      Many have gone on to become legends at the club, while others have slipped away and grown at pastures new.
      Here are their best 25 best academy trainees.
      25. ALEX GRIMALDO
      The Spanish left-back, 26, is one of the most sought-after defenders in world football at the moment.
      Currently starring at Benfica, he has been linked with a move to Tottenham previously.
      Barcelona let him go for £1.5million in 2015, without playing a game in the first team.
      Originally, he was plucked from Valencia in 2008 – spending four years with the Catalans until he was sold.
      Alex Grimaldo has made his name at BenficaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      24. DANI OLMO
      The Spanish 24-year-old international midfielder, who moved in January 2020 to Bundesliga club RB Leipzig, arrived at La Masia aged just nine.
      But in a surprising move, Olmo decided to leave Barca when he turned 16 and signed for Dinamo Zagreb.
      Barcelona were rumoured to be looking at bringing him back to Catalonia before he moved to Germany.
      He has since starred in the Bundesliga and is a regular in the Spain squad.
      Dani Olmo gambled with his career leaving Barcelona aged 16 for Dinamo ZagrebCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      23. NAYIM
      Arsenal fans won’t want to be reminded of Nayim’s most famous moment in his career.
      But before he was lobbing David Seaman from the halfway line, he was a young hopeful at La Masia.
      He joined Barcelona aged 12 – leaving his hometown Cueta.
      But his chances were limited in a team that was managed by Terry Venables.
      He later joined the former Three Lions boss at Spurs.
      Former La Masia product Nayim scored the winner the Cup Winners’ Cup final against ArsenalCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      22. LUIS GARCIA
      The former Liverpool midfielder had two spells with Barcelona.
      First as a 12-year-old youth player, where he starred in their reserve team.
      But having failed to break into the first team, he was sold to Atletico Madrid in 2002.
      However, after impressing with Atletico, Barcelona exercised a clause in Garcia’s contract to buy him back a season later.
      Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez moved for the playmaker in 2004 – having had him at Tenerife on loan in 2000-01.
      Luis Garcia had two spells at Barcelona but never made the gradeCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      21. ANDRE ONANA
      Another surprise, keeper Andre Onana had a spell at Barcelona from 2010 to 2015.
      He joined the club after starting out at the Samuel Eto’o Academy, but failed to make the grade there.
      Five years ago he signed for the Dutch giants, and has since become their No1.
      He was suspended for 12 months for a doping violation, returning to first-team training last November, but the Cameroon international left Holland for Inter Milan this summer.
      Goalkeeper Andre Onana had five years at La Masia before moving to AjaxCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      20. ALBERT FERRER
      It was right-back Ferrer’s dream to play for Barcelona – having grown up in the city.
      And he appeared in 221 LaLiga games during nine seasons with his boyhood club, after he was signed as a 13-year-old.
      In 1998 he moved to Premier League with Chelsea in a £2.2m deal, where he retired aged 33.
      Albert Ferrer was a local lad who got to represent his boyhood clubCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      19. PEPE REINA
      The son of former Barcelona goalkeeper Miguel Reina, Pepe was always destined to follow in his father’s footsteps.
      He joined La Masia in 1995, and from 1999 he was playing for their reserve side in the third tier of the Spanish football pyramid.
      Reina was never more than an understudy at the Camp Nou, and was told he could leave in 2002.
      The Liverpool legend is still playing now aged 40 after recently returning to Villarreal.
      Pepe Reina was surplus to requirements to Barcelona in 2002 after being an understudy for yearsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
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      18. GUILLERMO AMOR
      Benidorm-born Amor became one of Barcelona’s most important players under Cruyff in the 1990s.
      He joined La Masia in 1980 – winning five league titles and a European Cup.
      With Barcelona in his blood, it is unsurprising he is now responsible for the club’s youth system.
      Former youth product Amor now manages Barcelona’s youth set-upCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      17. HECTOR BELLERIN
      The Arsenal full-back might speak like a cockney, but he’s Barcelona through and through.
      Bellerin was also eight when he joined the club – but after eight years at La Masia he moved to the Gunners.
      He was vice-captain of the Premier League giants, until moving back to LaLiga with Real Betis on loan last term.
      However, he is now living his dream after re-joining Barcelona in the summer from the Gunners.
      Hector Bellerin left Barcelona for Arsenal and played against his old side several times before returning to the Nou CampCredit: PA:Press Association
      16. SERGI
      The marauding Spanish left-back joined Barcelona in 1988, and went on to become a club legend – appearing 382 times and winning three league titles.
      He was handed his Barca debut by Cruyff in a heated Champions League match away at Galatasaray
      From then on, he became a mainstay before he was sold to Atletico Madrid. He hadn’t lost that nastiness that made him a tricky player to play against either – earning 33 yellow cards in his three seasons there.
      Sergi won three La Liga titles after coming through La MasiaCredit: Icon Sport – Getty
      15. THIAGO MOTTA
      Barcelona never really saw the best of Motta.
      Like Pedro, he was signed late – aged 17 from local side Clube Atletico Juventus – and was assigned to the B side.
      He made his debut in 2001, but his time at Barcelona was robbed from him by a serious knee injury.
      Eventually, he found himself at Inter Milan, where Jose Mourinho got the best out of him – winning the Champions League in 2010 before heading to PSG.
      Thiago Motta never fulfilled his potential at BarçaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      14. IVAN DE LA PENA
      The hype around De La Pena, nicknamed “Little Buddha”, was immense when he was a teen.
      The child prodigy joined La Masia in 1991 from Racing Santander and initially looked to have a big future at the club.
      But fallouts with Cruyff and Van Gaal, who were frustrated with his work-rate, saw his progress curtailed and he had more success with city rivals Espanyol.
      De La Pena had fall outs with Johan Cruyff and Louis Van GaalCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      13. ADAMA TRAORE
      Wolves winger Traore has finally shown the potential Barcelona youth managers believed he had.
      He joined the Spanish champions aged just eight, making his debut aged 17, but failed to break into the first team under managers Gerard Martino and Luis Enrique.
      The speedy winger then moved to England, and had an ill-fated spell at Aston Villa before rediscovering himself at Middlesbrough and then starring for Wolves.
      He returned back to Barcelona on loan for the second half of last season but they decided against signing him permanently in the summer.
      Adama Traore moved to England to get first team footballCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      12. MIKEL ARTETA
      The Arsenal manager is best known for his time in the Premier League playing for both the Gunners and Everton.
      But before he made it in England, Arteta dreamt of becoming a pro in San Sebastian playing football on the beaches with childhood friend Xabi Alonso.
      He joined Barcelona aged 15, but struggled to break into the first team – joining PSG on loan before starring at Glasgow Rangers and returning to play for Real Sociedad with Alonso.
      Mikel Arteta struggled to break into the Barcelona first team
      11. VICTOR VALDES
      Valdes is regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the club’s history – having played 535 games and winning 21 major titles, including LaLiga six times and three Champions Leagues.
      But it looked like his time at the club had come to an end in 1995 when his family moved to Tenerife.
      However, Barca re-signed him and quickly progressed through the youth teams – making his debut aged 20.
      Victor Valdes left La Masia academy only to return three years laterCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      10. PEDRO
      The ex-Chelsea winger was a late-comer when it came to joining La Masia.
      Pedro arrived from Canary Islands team CD San Isidro aged 17 in 2004.
      But soon, he became a key member of the first team once he was promoted by Pep Guardiola.
      In the 2018-19 season Pedro became the first player to score in six different club competitions during a single season and in the same year.
      Pedro was a late-comer to La Masia, joining aged 17Credit: PA:Empics Sport
      9. MAURO ICARDI
      Argentina striker Icardi, 29, had a spell at La Masia from 2008-11, after rejecting overtures from Real Madrid, Arsenal and Liverpool.
      But the poacher failed to show his class in Spain and was shipped out on loan to Sampdoria in 2011, which became a permanent move six months later for just £400,000.
      He has since become one of the most sought-after strikers in European football, boasting a remarkable goalscoring record.
      Icardi always stood by his decision to leave Barca, because it ultimately benefited his career, although he is now on loan at Galatasaray after falling out of favour at PSG.
      Super poacher Mauro Icardi failed to impress at La MasiaCredit: FC Barcelona
      8. GERARD PIQUE
      Another one that got away, but returned to become a hero.
      Pique, 35, played in the same youth teams as Messi and Fabregas from 1997, although he was deployed as a defensive midfielder in his early years.
      Manchester United snapped him up in 2004 on a pro-contract, without having to pay a fee.
      In 2008, he returned to Catalonia for a fee of £5million and has gone on to play over 500 times for the club and is still at the Nou Camp now.
      Pique returned to Barcelona after a spell at Man Utd and bagged a celebrity missus in ShakiraCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      7. SERGIO BUSQUETS
      One-club man Busquets has become one of the greatest defensive midfielders of his generation.
      At youth level though he bounced around a few teams playing for the likes of Badia, Barbera Andalucia, Lleida, and Jabac Terrassa, before settling at Barcelona in 2005,
      Guardiola promoted Busquets to his first team in 2008, but it’s his former international manager Vincente del Bosque who provided this accurate quote about his abilities.
      He said: “If you watch the whole game, you won’t see Busquets – but watch Busquets, and you will see the whole game.”
      Sergio Busquets has established himself as the best defensive midfielder of his generationCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      6. CESC FABREGAS
      Fabregas trained at La Masia for six years before making the bold move to Arsenal in 2003, believing his chances would be limited at the Nou Camp.
      With the Gunners, he soon established himself into one of the Europe’s most promising players – replacing Patrick Vieira in the heart of their midfield, before eventually being named captain.
      In 2011 he returned to Barcelona for £35m, and in three seasons played 96 times for them before moving to Chelsea for £30m in 2014.
      Cesc won the World Cup and the Euros twice, and has been capped 110 times by Spain.
      Fabregas returned to Barcelona after making his name at ArsenalCredit: Action Images – Reuters
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      5. PEP GUARDIOLA
      Johan Cruyff called the Man City boss one of the best midfielders of his generation, and it’s hard to argue with that seeing he was a major influence in playing style of the likes of Xavi, Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas.
      Guardiola joined La Masia at 13, and within six years the deep-lying playmaker made his debut against Cadiz.
      In 1998, Louis van Gaal made him captain, but in 2001 he left for Serie A side Brescia after years of injury problems with a troublesome calf.
      Pep Guardiola became Barcelona captain after making it through their youth ranksCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      4. CARLES PUYOL
      Arguably the most un-Barcelona-like player.
      But Puyol became a cult hero as an inspirational captain with his uncompromising style of defending.
      He joined La Masia in 1995, playing as a defensive midfielder before converting to full-back and then centre-half.
      But Puyol almost left the club three years later when Barca accepted an offer from Malaga after deeming him surplus to requirements.
      However, seeing Xavi getting a chance in the first team encouraged Puyol to stay, and the rest is history.
      Puyol became a cult figure at Barcelona but nearly left the clubCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      3. ANDRES INIESTA
      Plucked from Albacete at the age of 12, Iniesta never looked back.
      He steadily climbed up the youth ranks, making his debut aged 18 in 2002.
      Iniesta would go on to become the most-decorated Spanish footballer in history – winning 35 trophies, including nine LaLiga titles and four Champions Leagues.
      Famously, he helped Spain win the 2010 World Cup – scoring the winner against Holland.
      Iniesta joined La Masia as a 12-year-oldCredit: Rex Features
      2. XAVI
      The greatest playmaker of his generation, and the embodiment of their tiki-taka passing style, Xavi joined La Masia at 10.
      At that age though it wasn’t Michael Laudrup he idolised, but in fact British-based stars like John Barnes, Paul Gascoigne, and Matt Le Tissier.
      “I’ve been lucky enough to be brought up on the Barcelona ethos,” he once revealed.
      “Which has taught me the value of being part of a team. ‘Today for you, tomorrow for me.’ Those qualities are essential for life in general.”
      After a spell in the Middle East, Xavi returned to the Nou Camp in November 2021 to take over as manager.
      Xavi idolised Paul Gascoigne, Matt Le Tissier and John Barnes growing upCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      1. LIONEL MESSI
      Without doubt the best youngster to come from Barcelona’s youth set-up, and the best to ever play for the club.
      Messi joined the LaLiga giants in 2001 from Newell’s Old Boys in Argentina, who he had trained with since the age of six.
      Realising they had such a prodigious talent on their hands, Barcelona agreed to pay for his treatment after he was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency.
      However his love affair with the club came to an end in the summer of 2021 as he moved to French giants PSG amid Barca’s financial difficulties.
      Messi graduated from La Masia to become Barcelona’s greatest ever playerCredit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Arsenal wonderkid Brooke Norton-Cuffy is starring on loan in the Championship and won the Euros with England U19s

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      ARSENAL wonderkid Brooke Norton-Cuffy has designs on becoming the best wing-back in Europe.The teenager, just 18, is currently on loan at Rotherham United – where he is getting rave reviews.
      Arsenal teenager Brooke Norton-Cuffy is being tipped for a huge future in the gameCredit: Getty
      Norton-Cuffy was a member of England’s U19 Euros winnersCredit: Instagram
      Last season he starred at Lincoln City, where his combination of power and pace also earned the youngster high-praise.
      While back in July, Norton-Cuffy played an important role in England’s U19 Euros triumph against Israel in the final.
      “I want to reach my potential, or go above and beyond what my potential is,” he recently revealed.
      “In my career, I want to be a star player in a top league in Europe, I want to win as many trophies as I can.”
      Striking up a relationship
      Norton-Cuffy joined Arsenal at the tender age of 10. Before that, the Pimlico-born prospect trained with Chelsea.
      Read more on Arsenal
      However, he wasn’t the swashbuckling defender he is today.
      Just like Ashley Cole did in his younger days, Norton-Cuffy fancied himself as a striker.
      As he developed at Hale End his position soon changed into an attacking full-back.
      Both-footed, he is able to play on each flank – although has been mainly utilised on the right.
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      Back in August, he signed a long-term contract with the Gunners who believe he has a big future at the club.
      Earning his stripes
      Last season, Norton-Cuffy joined Lincoln City in the January transfer window in a loan deal.
      Immediately, he was thrust into action for the League One side – making 17 appearances for The Imps and scoring once. For the fans, he was a hit.
      His former Lincoln boss Michael Appleton, now in charge at Blackpool, also tipped Norton-Cuffy to have a huge future at Arsenal.
      He told Lincolnshire Live in March: “I don’t want Arsenal ringing me up saying ‘what have you said that for?’
      At Lincoln City on loan Norton-Cuffy was a huge hitCredit: Getty
      In the summer, Norton-Cuffy signed a long-term contract with the GunnersCredit: https://www.instagram.com/nortoncuffy/?hl=en
      “But I’ve been saying it behind the scenes, I think he will play for Arsenal’s first team on a regular basis.
      “It might not be for a couple of years but it’s definitely going to happen.
      “He’ll hopefully continue his progression over the next few games.
      “There’s one or two things that I think I can help him with, but by the time he goes back to Arsenal, he’ll be much better.”
      More first team experience at Rotherham
      After sitting down with Academy Manager Per Mertesacker and Arsenal’s loan manager Ben Knapper, Norton-Cuffy was adamant he wanted another loan move and more experience.
      He told Goal: “I always knew that I was going to go back out on loan. I feel like U23s football is good, but I’ve already had a sniff of senior football and so I wasn’t going to shy away from that.
      “I want to keep progressing and men’s football is a lot more challenging for me than U23s. So as soon as my spell was done with Lincoln, I knew I was going to go back out on loan.”
      This season Norton-Cuffy is earning his stripes at Rotherham UnitedCredit: Rex
      In a match against Sunderland Norton-Cuffy was voted man of the match by fansCredit: PA
      Four games into his Rotherham career, Norton-Cuffy has again been championed.
      In a recent match against Sunderland, 80 per cent of fans voted him man of the match in a poll held by supporters.
      He said: “I’m not sure if it’s the Championship, or the club that I’m at right now, but training is intense.
      “It’s a lot of running, a lot of demand on the body – especially as I’m playing wing-back, which is a very key position in this team.
      “I feel like it’s been a lot harder. You can’t switch off. In League 1, if you lose the ball or make a silly mistake, sometimes you don’t get punished. But if you do make silly mistakes in this league, you do. So it’s about learning quickly.
      “This was the next step for me. League 1 last season was a good step up from U23s football, but you always look to improve and I think I just needed to go up a level again. And now I feel myself improving with each game, so it’s good.”
      England hero
      Although the tournament began difficulty for Norton-Cuffy, he certainly came good for England when they needed him.
      Conceding a penalty against Italy was a harsh lesson learned.
      Norton-Cuffy takes on Cesare Casadei during the UEFA Euro 2022 semi-finalCredit: Getty
      Dane Scarlett celebrates scoring with Norton-Cuffy during the group match against SerbiaCredit: Getty
      Arsenal youngster Norton-Cuffy is being tipped to be a first team regular for years to comeCredit: https://www.instagram.com/nortoncuffy/?hl=en
      He didn’t start the final against Israel, but came on in the 71st minute with the scores level.
      Instantly, he put himself about – getting a yellow card and firing a shot wide.
      Then, he was involved in the build-up to the decisive goal – passing the ball on to Harvey Vale, who set-up Chelsea summer signing Carney Chukwuemeka to put the Three Lions ahead.
      Norton-Cuffy’s next challenge is to follow the likes of Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah into the Arsenal first team.
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      “You see that it can be done,” he said. “Bukayo’s the starting right winger of the Arsenal first-team wearing the No.7. Emile now has the No.10 shirt. 
      “So they are inspirations because you can see it’s achievable. I used to see them at Hale End and now when you go up to London Colney they are the main people in the first-team. It is inspirational.” More