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      Inside factory where the World Cup is made EVERY four years… as replica of famous trophy is given to winning nation

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      ITALY may not be at the World Cup this year, but you can guarantee an Italian has already had their hand on the trophy.That’s because the 18 carat gold prize is remade in Paderno Dugnano, a small town near Milan, at trophy and medal manufacturers GDE Bertoni.
      France star Kylian Mbappe kisses the World Cup after their 2018 winCredit: AFP
      Silvio Gazzaniga created the current World Cup trophy in 1971
      A GDE Bertoni worker works on the replica trophyCredit: Paolo Vezzoli
      Every four years, workers at the factory are tasked with creating a brass copy of the trophy that’s given to the football federation of the winning team.
      Standing some 36.8 centimetres high and weighing 6.1 kilograms, the original was designed by artist Silvio Gazzaniga in 1971, and presented at the 1974 World Cup to winners West Germany.
      Owned by FIFA, THAT trophy is handed out to the team who wins the World Cup final, after it’s engraved with the country’s name on the trophy’s base.
      But then, following the trophy presentation, it’s handed back to GDE Bertoni who have to restore it before returning it to FIFA, where it sits in their official museum before the NEXT World Cup.
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      Apparently, when players get their hands on it, all sorts of damage can be done when the trophy’s passed around during celebrations. So that’s why Bertoni have to preserve it.
      But how do GDE Bertoni make the replica World Cup trophy?
      First, the brass body is formed in the foundry. The metal is poured into a special container (which is the shape and design of the real World Cup) to produce a plaster cast.
      Once that’s done, it has to be chiselled by die grinders, which remove any excess metal.
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      Die grinders are used to remove any excess metalCredit: Paolo Vezzoli
      The top of the World Cup trophy is polished so it’s more refinedCredit: Paolo Vezzoli
      Now, comes the human element. Manual chiselling with a small hammer is required to refine and complete the necessary details on the trophy – specifically on the two human figures holding up the world.
      More refining is needed, so it’s polished with heavy machinery to get it looking just perfect after that.
      The trophy then reaches the galvanic department, who are responsible for ultrasonic cleaning and giving it a degreasing bath.
      That’s a process that uses ultrasound and an appropriate solvent to ensure the trophy is cleaned properly and it also enhances the effect of the metal.
      Next, the trophy is dipped into a gilding bath – gilding being a decorative technique for applying fine gold leaf or powder to solid surfaces.
      Following that, it’s washed in distilled water, which again gives it a gleaming shine.
      Then, it’s off to the galvanic department who perform the next step in giving the trophy an ultrasonic cleaning and degreasing bathCredit: Paolo Vezzoli
      The trophy is then given a gilding bathCredit: Paolo Vezzoli
      Malachite green marble is applied to the base and the trophy is sprayed with a Zapon varnish, which ensures its preservation.
      The trophy is dried, cleaned once again and inspected one final time before it’s ready to be displayed come World Cup final day.
      The whole scientific process from start-to-finish takes around three months.
      As well as making the World Cup trophy, GDE Bertoni are also responsible for crafting the gold medals for the winners.
      And they’re a busy operation all-season long, having to produce other major trophies throughout the year.
      They create replicas of the Champions League, Europa League and even the Supercup trophies
      Gilding is a decorative technique for applying fine gold leaf or powder to solid surfacesCredit: Paolo Vezzoli
      Zapon varnish is applied to make sure the trophy is correctly preservedCredit: Paolo Vezzoli
      Finally, the World Cup trophy is ready for final inspectionCredit: Paolo Vezzoli
      GDE Bertoni staff display the trophies they’ve created through the yearsCredit: Paolo Vezzoli
      GDE Bertoni are also in charge of restoring the World Cup after the World Cup final trophy presentationCredit: Paolo Vezzoli
      But it’s when the World Cup comes around that GDE Bertoni are at their busiest.
      The real World Cup trophy we see today was created for the 1974 World Cup in West Germany.
      Gazzaniga beat off 53 submissions from other sculptors determined to win the commission.
      Read More on The Sun
      The original is believed to be made of 75% gold and has been estimated to be worth around £10m.
      Is it any wonder why FIFA keep it under lock and key in their World Football Museum in Zurich. More

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      England’s best and worst football kits, from Moore’s iconic 1966 shirt to Seaman’s garish Euro 96 goalie jersey

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      THROUGH the years the likes of Umbro, Admiral and Nike have encouraged us to reach deep into our pockets to buy an England jersey.Some of those kits have been memorable, often linked to the team’s performance, and have become collector’s items.
      England, wearing the jersey they’ll wear for the 2022 World Cup, have sported a variety of shirts over the yearsCredit: Getty
      Others, however, have been simply forgettable – mainly because they were rarely worn or their design was simply too garish.
      SunSport has delved into its wardrobe to pull out the best and worst kits we’ve ever seen England perform in. There are some crackers… but there are some true stinkers too.THE BEST
      5. 2010-11 HOME KIT
      This special kit was one for the hipsters.
      Designed by Peter Saville, the graphic designer responsible for creating album artwork for Joy Division, Pulp, Suede and more, it was produced by Umbro.
      The cross of St George was carefully stitched onto the shirt and socks to give it that extra patriotic feel.
      While the shorts were a royal blue colour – that certainly suited Chelsea legend John Terry.
      In 2010 iconic graphic designer Peter Saville created this England top
      One for the hipsters, the flag of St George was stitched into the jersey and socks
      4. 1990-92 THIRD KIT
      One for the purists.
      Designed for Italia 90, it only ever got one outing – and that wasn’t just from Bernard Sumner in New Order’s World In Motion video.
      Dennis Wise and Co wore it for a game against Turkey in 1991, and it never appeared again.
      It did look very similar to Manchester City’s shirt of the same era though, that also featured a diamond pattern running through it.

      1990-92 Replica Third Shirt, £35 from Pro Direct Soccer – buy here

      England’s third kit looked like Man CityCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The Umbro kit was only worn once in a friendly against Turkey before it was shelvedCredit: Getty – Contributor
      3. 1990-93 HOME SHIRT
      A jersey linked with special memories.
      From David Platt hammering home a last-minute volley against Belgium to Gazza’s tears and Gary Lineker’s goals, it was worn infamously during the 1990 World Cup, where England reached the semi-finals.
      Its design is steeped in the 90s, with subtle zig-zags adorning a slightly flammable material.

      1990-93 Replica HOME Shirt, £30 form Pro Direct soccer – buy here

      Paul Gascoigne made England’s 1990-93 home jersey iconicCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Gary Lineker and England reached the semi-finals in Italia 90Credit: Getty – Contributor
      2. 1980-83 HOME KIT
      While England didn’t lose a game at the 1982 World Cup, where they wore this number created by Admiral, they failed to make it past the second group round.
      Two frustrating draws against West Germany and Spain, the latter in which an unfit Kevin Keegan missed a sitter of a header saw the Three Lions crash out.
      But in the style stakes, we definitely had the best kit – with a stonking v-neck flanked by a blue and red pattern either side of it.

      1980-83 Replica HOME shirt, £30 from Pro Direct Select – buy here

      Admiral’s England kit is recognised as one of their coolestCredit: Mark Leech Sports
      From 1980-83 England wore a v-neck collar
      1. 1966 AWAY SHIRT
      It had to be.
      Worn expertly by Bobby Moore and Sir Geoff Hurst as we marched to World Cup glory at Wembley defeating West Germany 4-2, it was only worn because (strangely) our opponents were the designated home team that day.
      But its simple design and round collar screams the 1960s, and it’s still a jersey you see fans wearing in the stands today.
      The question is; would it be number one if we hadn’t won the World Cup? Who cares, we did and that’s history.

      1966 Replica AWAY shirt, £25 from Pro Direct Soccer – buy here

      Bobby Moore wears the iconic red 1966 World Cup jerseyCredit: Getty – Contributor
      England only wore red that day because West Germany were the designated home teamCredit: Hulton Archive – Getty

      THE WORST
      5. 1999-2000 HOME KIT
      Desperate to recreate the feel of England’s 1966 shirt, Umbro introduced a round collar for this effort in time for Euro 2000.
      But even David Beckham couldn’t pull it off – as we fell to a last minute goal against Romania in a 3-2 loss in our last group game and were eliminated.
      The fact the shirt only retailed for a year showed you what the FA thought of it.
      Umbro brought back the round neck collar for this design in 1999Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      In 2000 after a dismal Euros the shirt was in the binCredit: Getty – Contributor
      4. 1997-1998 HOME KIT
      Ironically, its predecessor wasn’t much better.
      Another Umbro effort, it did have an iconic moment attached to it when an 18-year-old Michael Owen waltzed past several Argentina defenders to slam home one of the best World Cup goals.
      But in terms of design, it was all over the place – with a bulky trophy neck collar and strange stripes on the side not adding to its glory.
      The centralised badge was a bit too radical too.

      1997-98 Replica HOME shirt, £30 from Pro Direct Soccer – buy here

      Michael Owen’s iconic goal against Argentina made the 1998 jersey memorableCredit: AFP – Getty
      But placing the badge in the centre of the kit went against traditionCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      3. 2016 AWAY SHIRT
      When an England legend speaks out about a kit, it must be bad.
      In 2016, Gary Lineker tweeted: “Can’t think of a worse England strip” when the red away jersey was unveiled for the first time.
      And he wasn’t the only one, as fans online lambasted its design.
      For some reason it came with bright blue socks too. Just, no.

      2016 AWAY shirt, from £45, at Vintage Football Shirts – buy here

      England legend Gary Lineker was one of the first to criticise England’s 2016 away jerseyCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      For some reason Umbro paired bright blue socks with the red away kitCredit: PA:Press Association
      2. 1995-1996 AWAY SHIRT
      Sorry, Umbro.
      But when a company designs a shirt they hope looks good with jeans, is grey, and is said to be ‘indigo blue’ you know you’re in trouble.
      The strip was only worn three times, against Bulgaria, then against Georgia and finally against Germany in the Euro 96 semi-final.
      That defeat certainly put the nail in the coffin for it, and the kit was shelved soon after.

      1996-97 AWAY shirt, from £60, at Vintage Football Shirts – buy here

      England’s indigo blue shirt was created by Umbro with the idea it would look good with jeansCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      After England’s Euro 96 heartbreak against Germany the kid was never seen againCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      1. POOR DAVID SEAMAN
      The Arsenal goalie had a momentous tournament at Euro 96.
      A penalty save against Scotland that inspired the Three Lions to victory, the hero in a penalty shootout win over Spain, he became renowned as one of the world’s best keepers soon after.
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      But this kit he wore did him absolutely no favours, even if he did stand out from the crowd.
      A bright red colour, mixed with a splash of green, yellow, purple made it look like something someone who had indulged in too many Skittles might’ve thrown up.
      And why was the E backwards on it? We’ll never know.
      David Seamans goalie jersey from Euro 96 was a monstrosityCredit: Getty – Contributor
      For some reason the E was backwards on the jersey

      Ranking every England manager More

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      Meet England’s gorgeous Wags, who are staying on a £1bn cruise liner in Qatar, from a South African model to mum of two

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      ENGLAND’S Wags are doing the World Cup in style.Although are not allowed to see their famous partners, they are living it up on board a stunning £1billion cruise liner in Qatar.
      Anna Modler is one of England’s Wags cheering on our boys this summer
      Anna Modler is a model and partner to Eric Dier
      England ace Eric Dier is Modler’s reported boyfriendCredit: Rex
      The MSC World Europa boasts six swimming pools, a 643ft promenade, 14 ocean-view whirlpools, 13 dining venues and more than 30 bars and cafes.
      And although they have been warned by the FA with a strict ‘do’s and don’ts’ list, the extra security detail they have been provided should keep them out of bother.
      But who are the Wags supporting our lads?
      SunSport gives you a brief introduction to some of them.
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      Anna Modler
      Back in September, it was revealed Modler was dating Spurs ace Eric Dier.
      The South African beauty, 24, previously dated former Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez in 2020.
      According to reports, the model is said to be smitten with Dier.
      She also believes he could be “the one”.
      Most read in Football
      Sasha Attwood
      As the girlfriend of Jack Grealish, Sasha’s profile rocketed when he signed for Man City for £100million and became an England hero.
      The 26-year-old is a model and influencer, who has starred in huge ad campaigns,
      Most recently, she scored a massive deal with online fashion retailer boohoo.
      And she was dropping a massive hint to Jack about her future – modelling a range of maternity wear.
      Sasha Attwood, 26, is a model and influencerCredit: Instagram @sasha__rebecca
      Attwood is the longterm girlfriend of Jack GrealishCredit: https://www.instagram.com/sasha__rebecca/?hl=en
      Georgina Irwin
      Stunning Georgina is more used to travelling by air than sea.
      The fiancee of Arsenal’s No1 Aaron Ramsdale works for British Airways as a flight attendant.
      Aaron and Georgina, 26, started dating just three years ago – when he was on loan at AFC Wimbledon.
      As her job suggests, she loves to travel – enjoying breaks away in go-to destinations like Miami Beach and Tulum in Mexico.
      Stunning Georgina Irwin is the partner of Aaron RamsdaleCredit: Instagram
      Irwin’s day job is to work as cabin crew for British AirwaysCredit: Instagram @georginamay_
      Fern Hawkins
      Seasoned pro of a Wag Fern knows what it’s like to go to a big tournament.
      She was there, by husband Harry Maguire’s side, as the Three Lions reached the semi-finals in Russia in 2018.
      And mother-of-two Fern, 28, also suffered heartbreak with her beloved as England fell at the final hurdle at the last Euros.
      Maybe, it’ll be third time lucky.
      Fern Hawkins is a seasoned pro of a Wag when it comes to big tournamentsCredit: Instagram / @_fernmaguire
      Hawkins is the wife of Harry MaguireCredit: _fernhawkins/Instagram
      Megan Pickford
      Summer just gone and Megan, 26, got her dream wedding.
      She was whisked off to the Maldives by England’s No1 to the Maldives, where they said their I do’s for a second time.
      They had to postpone their big day because of the pandemic, and opted for a registry office first time round.
      Away from the pitch, they live a glam lifestyle – shopping in high-end fashion boutiques, hiring private jets, and staying in £2,500-per-night hotel suites.
      Megan Pickford has become a staple among England’s WagsCredit: The Sun
      The Pickfords enjoy a lavish lifestyle
      Paige Milian
      The fiancee of Chelsea star Raheem Sterling, Paige met the winger when they were teenagers.
      She followed his football journey from QPR to Liverpool, when she quit her job at JD Sports to live with him in the north.
      Now back in London with the Blues, after living it up Cheshire when he starred for Man City, Paige, 27, helps run his Milian Property Group company.
      Glam Paige Milian used to work at JD Sports before she hooked up with a footballerCredit: Instagram
      Milian’s other half is England winger Raheem Sterling
      Annie Kilner
      Kilner, 30, met England defender Kyle Walker when they were in their teens, but they briefly split up in 2019 after nine years together when he was accused of cheating on her with reality TV star Laura Brown.
      Since then, the England ace has been embroiled in a number of steamy encounters – culminating in a coronavirus lockdown sex party with two hookers in April 2020.
      Walker bedded Lauryn Goodman and became a dad for the fourth time in 2020 – but Annie branded him “gutless” after he broke the news over the phone.
      However, after Kyle agreed to put a ring on it – Kilner forgave him.
      Annie Kilner’s romance with Kyle WalkerCredit: Instagram
      After alleged affairs, Walker agreed to marry Kilner, who is mother to three of his children
      Anouska Santos
      Sitting next to Fern for club and country is Anouska Santos, 30, the missus of United left-back Luke Shaw.
      Rumours swirled that they were an item back in 2017, when the pair were spotted at Wireless Festival together.
      They too caught the baby bug this summer- with the birth of their daughter Storie, who they shared images of in an Instagram story. She was their second child after son, Reign.
      Anouska Santos has been a football’s Wag since 2017Credit: Instagram @anouskasantos
      Santos is Luke Shaw’s longterm girlfriend and mother of his two childrenCredit: Instagram / @anouskasantos More

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      Meet England World Cup star James Maddison’s stunning girlfriend Kennedy Alexa, who is a model and lived in Los Angeles

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      LEICESTER CITY ace James Maddison has finally got the call he deserves.The midfielder, 25, has been in inspired form for the Foxes, which Gareth Southgate could not ignore, and has picked him for England’s World Cup squad to go to Qatar.
      Kennedy Alexa is the stunning girlfriend of England ace James MaddisonCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      Maddison began dating Kennedy in 2020Credit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      Alexa and Maddison have as son called Leo
      Cheering him in Qatar will be his gorgeous Wag and mother of his son, Leo.
      The playmaker charmed stunning model Kennedy Alexa, 28, in 2020 – and they have been inseparable ever since.
      The pair became Instagram official when they shared a snap on Christmas Eve wearing matching pyjamas.
      Gushing Maddson revealed in 2021 that he loved his new girlfriend in a romantic social media post of the pair taking a stroll.
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      They then welcomed baby Leo in the summer of the same year, with the nipper already accustomed to life at the King Power Stadium and seeing daddy play.
      LA LADY
      But the pair have always remained tight-lipped on when they first began dating one another.
      And they’re so private, we’re not even sure how they met. But, we can assume it was in late 2020.
      Most read in Football
      According to her social media, English-born Alexa only moved back to the UK that same year.
      Previously, she lived in Los Angeles where she enjoying hiking on Runyon Canyon.
      Alexa got into American sports, including baseball.
      She also marched on a Black Lives Matter rally in West Hollywood.
      Gorgeous Kennedy shows off her stunning bikini body
      Gorgeous brunette Alexa is a modelCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      Alexa used to live in Los Angeles, where she enjoyed hikingCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      The brunette stunner also got into American sports, like baseballCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      Alexa shows off her curves in a sexy swimwear photoshootCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      On Instagram Alexa gives followers a glimpse of her fashion shootsCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      Proud Kennedy will be delighted for Maddison’s England call-up
      MODEL CITIZEN
      It’s no surprise that Alexa models for a living.
      A quick glimpse through her Instagram, that has almost 60,000 followers, shows the gorgeous brunette posing in various fashion shoots.
      She shot a campaign for the Princess Polly online boutique, and has taken to Wag life well – living a glam lifestyle.
      Maddison and Alex went Instagram official in matching pyjamas on Christmas eveCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      In recent years Alexa has modelled for the likes of American swimwear brand MontceCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      Alexa moved back to England from America in 2020Credit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      It is assumed Alexa began dating Maddison in 2020Credit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      Baby Leo has already been to see dad play football live with his mum
      Alexa also showed off her amazing bikini body for American swimwear brand Montce.
      In terms of her own fashion style, she has a penchant for Nike Air trainers – showing off her collection online.
      LOVES TO TRAVEL
      Being a model, Alexa gets to travel to some amazing destinations.
      On Instagram, she shared snaps from some incredible holidays – including stays in Hawaii and a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Prickly Pear Island in the Caribbean island of Anguilla.
      Add trips to Miami for glam photoshoots, life is beautiful for Alexa.
      Alexa loves to travelCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      On Instagram Alexa regularly shares her trips to glam placesCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      Alexa and Maddison have been gushing about each other on social mediaCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      Maddison told Alexa he loved her on InstagramCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      And being a footballers’ Wag will bring plenty more where that came from.
      In a post, ‘Madders’ told Alexa: “Love you.”
      Judging by these snaps, it’s easy to see why. More

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      Inside the England Wags’ £1bn luxury World Cup cruise ship with 30 bars and restaurants, and an amazing 75m indoor SLIDE

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      ENGLAND’S World Cup Wags will be living the ultimate dream at Qatar later this month, on board the most amazing ship ever built.Stars like Jack Grealish’s girlfriend Sasha Attwood are booked to stay on a £1billion luxury cruise ship during the World Cup.
      MSC World Europa is currently heading for QatarCredit: AFP
      The MSC World Europa has an indoor slide spanning 11 decksCredit: MSC CRUISES
      Jack Grealish’s girlfriend, Sasha Attwood, will be joined by England’s wags on boardCredit: Getty
      There is a huge on board theatreCredit: AFP
      Footballers’ wives and girlfriends are due to be among 6,762 guests on board the brand new MSC World Europa.
      Five-star packages to stay on board while the vessel is docked off the coast of Doha cost up to £6,000.
      Passengers can dine at 33 on board restaurants and bars when they stay on the £1billion luxury cruise ship.
      There is also a 75m indoor SLIDE on a boat that has been dubbed an “ultramodern urban metropolis at sea” by MSC Cruises.

      The glitzy MSC World Europa is currently steaming for Qatar, ready for Sasha Attwood and Co to board later in the month.
      But, as exclusively revealed by The Sun, no players will be allowed on deck.
      Gareth Southgate’s stars will be kept apart as the Three Lions live in a strict hotel Covid bubble away from their partners.
      Not that the England wags will notice though.
      The glitzy MSC World Europa will be home for England’s Wags during the World Cup
      There is a wide range of rooms on boardCredit: MSC CRUISES
      The stunning interior includes an enormous chandelierCredit: AFP
      Eric Dier’s partner Anna Modler is expected to stay on the shipCredit: https://www.instagram.com/annamodler/?hl=en
      Another view of the incredible indoor slideCredit: AFP
      Nearly 7,000 guests can fit on the shipCredit: AFP
      There’s plenty on board the £1billion 205,700-tonne floating palace to keep them more than entertained.
      MSC World Europa boasts an incredible six swimming pools, 14 ocean-view whirlpools, and a 643ft promenade.
      There is also an 11-deck high helter skelter called The Venom Drop — at 75m it is the tallest slide on any ship in the world.
      England player’s wives and girlfriends are expected to be among a whopping 6,762 guests packed into 2,633 cabins.
      Most read in Football
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      Different lighting makes for a funky interiorCredit: MSC CRUISES
      The brand-new ship is the height of luxuryCredit: MSC CRUISES
      The inner atrium shows just how huge it is, with the slide at one endCredit: MSC CRUISES
      There are plenty of restaurants offering a range of cuisinesCredit: MSC CRUISES
      Sport courts will keep guests entertainedCredit: MSC CRUISES
      It will be hard to leave the ship to watch any of the World Cup action on dry land considering there is a 1,153 seat theatre where guests can put their feet up.
      Or if they would rather keep themselves entertained there is also a Sportplex that is home to Bumper Cars.
      But it will cost a fair whack with five-star packages to stay on board while the vessel is docked off the coast of Doha costing up to £6,000.
      Guests have a pick of a wide range of rooms, with the most luxurious being the MSC Yacht Club Owner’s Suite.
      The room includes a large balcony with a private whirlpool bath.
      There is also panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows and glass doors and a separate dining and living room area.
      More basic rooms have a bed, wardrobe, bathroom and a TV.
      There’s also a Mini and Juniors club for the kids to enjoy their time on board.
      More adult entertainment includes a Zen Pool and an Indoor Promenade.
      MSC World Europa has SIX swimming pools and 14 whirlpoolsCredit: MSC CRUISES
      MSC have labelled their ship an “ultramodern urban metropolis at sea”Credit: AFP
      There is entertainment for guests of all agesCredit: AFP
      Meanwhile Southgate and his squad will be staying at the Souq Al Wakra hotel in Doha, back on dry land.
      But The Sun exclusively revealed earlier this week that the hotel is still a building site – less than a month before the tournament kicks off. More

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      Security measures footballers use, from spending £50k on panic rooms to splashing up to £40k on guard dogs

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      FOOTBALLERS can afford the ultimate luxuries in life, like sprawling homes, cars and expensive jewellery thanks to their hefty salaries.But unfortunately that makes them easy prey for opportunist thieves – who’ll target anything of value to steal.
      Dele Alli was targeted by burglars in 2020Credit: EPA
      Police arrive on the scene of Alli’s North London home after intruders broke in and stole watchesCredit: Paul Edwards – The Sun
      Manchester City ace Kyle Walker beefed up his security detail – buying a doberman for £40,000 from guard dog specialists Chaperone K9.
      Dele Alli was a victim of a robbery, where two burglars broke into his North London home, assaulted him before taking off with expensive watches, including a £150,000 Richard Mille 11-03, a £150,000 Patek Philippe 5980 Nautilus and a £50,000 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak chrono.
      Then in 2019, ex-Arsenal stars Mesut Ozil and Sead Kolasinac were chased by a moped gang, who tried to car-jack the German playmaker’s Mercedes G-Wagon, as the pair drove along a North London road.
      Liverpool forward Sadio Mane was burgled when he was on Champions League duty with the Reds, who were playing away against Bayern Munich.
      While the Senegalese forward was tormenting the Bavarians, his mansion was being ransacked by burglars, who nicked items including mobile phones, car keys and designer watches.
      But what security measures do footballers take to keep themselves safe from harm?
      IN THE CASE OF DELE
      Since having his timepieces nicked, Dele tried to make them too hot to handle and circulated their makes and models.
      And his football pals told him they would pass on the details to their watchmakers in the hope they could catch the thieves.
      A source told The Sun at the time: “These robbers might think they have hit the jackpot stealing these watches, but they are going to face real problems cashing them in.
      “Footballers use a handful of dealers and none will touch a stolen watch because they know it could cause serious problems down the line.
      Dele Alli’s prized watches were stolen from himCredit: Dele Instagram
      A £50,000 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak chrono was taken in the burglaryCredit: Dele Instagram
      Ali and his pals circulated their makes and models to make the goods too hot to handleCredit: Dele Instagram
      “It’s not unusual for cops in Dubai and Italy to demand to see papers for watches when passengers pass through security.
      “Can you imagine if a watch stolen in a violent robbery ends up on a wrist of a player who then gets arrested?
      “Dele is well connected through the England squad and knows players in Manchester, Newcastle, Liverpool and London where all the main dealers are.
      “These dealers know if they accidentally bought any watch that turned out to be one of Dele’s, then they would never sell to a footballer again.”
      PANIC ROOMS
      One of the big trends in the last few years has seen footballers installing bulletproof panic rooms inside their lavish properties.
      Costing anywhere from between £40k to £1m, they provide a secure hiding spot for families at home during a burglary.
      David Beckham recently installed one in his family’s Kensington abode, along with a 24-hour, 60-camera CCTV system.
      Paul Weldon, managing director of The Panic Room, fits them for high-profile clients around Europe.
      He told us: “A panic room is a room that’s self-contained, that if the house becomes under some form of aggravated break-in, the family can get into that room, be safe and secure and have some independent communication to call for help.
      Former Arsenal pals Sead Kolasinac and Mesut Ozil were the subject of a car-jacking in 2019Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      The moped thugs had given chase to Ozil’s Mercedes G-Class SUV in North London
      Bosnian left-back Kolasinac bravely managed to send the attackers scarpering
      Panic rooms have become a huge trend for footballersCredit: The Panic Room Company
      A bulletproof panic room can cost anything from £40k to £1mCredit: The Panic Room Company
      Panic rooms are normally installed within an existing room in a propertyCredit: The Panic Room Company
      “In a residential home, we try to locate somewhere on the first bedroom floor where there’s a closet of two metres by two metres that can double up as a fully-blown panic room.
      “Generally, our rooms are installed inside an existing room and they have the capability to withstand bullets from a handgun and a shotgun.
      “They range from about £40,000 to £1m in price – and clients don’t just use them to protect themselves, they’ll store specialist wines, art work, and put their safes in there too.
      “But you have to remember, a panic room is a last resort. With a big, detached property you’ve got to incorporate other systems.
      “It may be at night you set perimeter alarms, or a ground floor alarm. So at least you’ve got some warning that someone is knocking around.
      “If the alarm activates outside, you can get your family inside a panic room and call the police. But it’s got to be used with other security features of a property.”
      SPECIALLY-TRAINED GUARD DOGS
      Marcus Rashford, Jack Grealish, Mark Noble, Phil Jones, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Jesse Lingard all swear by Chaperone K9 – a Leicestershire-based company that provides specially trained guard dogs to protect Premier League footballers’ families.
      The majority of dogs they provide are German Shepherds or Belgian Malinois, and each pooch has been put through a rigorous 12-month plus training programme.
      According to Chaperone K9’s website, the dogs are able to recognise and deal with a number of different threats, including home invasion, road rage, personal attacks on the person and their family and robbery.
      Chaperone K9 provide guard dogs to footballers, including Marcus RashfordCredit: Chaperone K9
      Mark Noble invested in two German Shepherds from Chaperone K9 to protect his familyCredit: Chaperone K9
      Man Utd star Phil Jones also believes having a Chaperone K9 dog in your home warns off intrudersCredit: Chaperone K9
      Rashford paid upwards of £15,000 for a Chaperone K9 dog to protect his Cheshire propertyCredit: Chaperone K9
      Hugo Lloris recently added a guard dog from Elite Protection to his familyCredit: Instagram
      Once given a command, they will spring into action with an apparent initial display of aggression to ward a potential assailant off simply by barking.
      If there is more than one attacker, they are taught to position themselves between you and the potential threat, continuously barking to keep the assailants at bay.
      And should the assailant continue to pose you a danger, a Chaperone K9 has learned, on command, to bite and hold the attacker until you tell the dog to release them.
      Since the Alli incident, more footballers have said to have invested in the ferocious guard dogs – also using rival firm Elite Protection, like Hugo Lloris.
      PERSONAL BODYGUARDS
      When you’re as famous as someone like the Beckhams, surrounding yourself and your children with burly security guards is a necessity.
      On the school run in LA, former members of the SAS would flank the family’s brood before they went to class.
      And when Brazil captain Dani Alves was at PSG, Titan Security were asked to look after his safety during a meet and greet.
      “When Dani launched his new clothing line in Paris, we supplied security staff for him,” Matthew Watson, director for Titan Security Europe explained.
      “Measures were taken in store where Dani was signing autographs and posing for photos with fans.
      David Beckham and his family are regularly flanked by security, some of which are SAS-trainedCredit: AFP – Getty
      “Crowd control and proximity of general public in this setting had to be considered due to the nature of it being a high-profile footballer, as well as two-way earpiece radio support to bodyguards on site.”
      Watson believes in the wake of the recent incidents more footballers will seek personal security.
      “In light of recent events, anticipation is for this market to continue to grow,” he said.
      “Affluent footballers are often a target due to lack of security around them, and they are very much in the public eye.
      “While brazen attempts to rob these individuals is becoming more frequent, with salary’s being posted and shared on social media.
      “That means footballers today are at risk more than ever.”
      Dani Alves required security detail when he was attending an event in ParisCredit: PA:Press Association
      RAISING AN ALARM
      Shield Security provide alarms and systems for footballers in the Yorkshire and Humber region, as well as the North of England.
      When Southampton forward Shane Long was plying his trade at Hull City, he enlisted their services.
      “During my time with Premier League football club Hull City, my family were fortunate enough to benefit from the services of Shield Security,” he revealed.
      “As a professional footballer, I often spend a great deal of time away from home, and with that in mind, my wife and I wanted the best security protection for our family.”
      Not only does Shield offer state-of-the-art alarms that can detect the most cunning intruder, they also offer security staff that stay at the home overnight, which is something Long invested in ahead of Hull’s ill-fated Europa League campaign in 2014.
      “We can offer guards to patrol the premises for footballers when they’re away, which is a decent visual deterrent,” Shield Security manager Alex Lee told us.
      “While some of the clients will request patrol cars visit four or five times a night to have a look around the premises.
      “But it’s mostly going technology-wise now. What happens with these burglaries is the robbers tend to know when a footballer is going away, so it’s pretty hard to prevent against.”
      Lee revealed that footballers are spending up to £20k to ensure their mansions are covered by alarms, cameras and barrier fences.
      Shield Security provide alarms, barrier fences and more for footballersCredit: Shield Security
      Shane Long asked Shield Security to provide a patrol guard to look after his property when he was awayCredit: Reuters
      CCTV cameras are installed around footballers’ homes, with video and alerts sent straight to their phones if an alarm is triggeredCredit: Getty – Contributor
      “A lot of footballers tend to live in houses that have gated houses.
      “So the first port of call is a gated intercom. They have a video camera pointing at the entrance and that goes direct to an app on their mobile phones.
      “There could also be cameras right around the site, with some players even doing internal cameras by their back doors, as well as intruder alarms.
      “We install perimeter fences too that have a laser going from pillar to pillar, so any movement over that and an alarm will be triggered.
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      “It’s not too different to what your average Joe is getting really, but the only difference is it’s on a larger scale because of the size of their houses.
      “Most footballers’ homes are five bedroom homes, so they’re spending anywhere from £5,000 to £20,000.
      “But if that’s the price of keeping them and their family safe, they will happily pay that.”
      Tottenham midfielder Dele Ali shows off incredible house & home cinema while on lockdown More

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      World’s sexiest football fans, from Gisele Bundchen following Brazil to Aussie celeb Margot Robbie cheering on Socceroos

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      THEY don’t call it the beautiful game for nothing.Football brings the most glam women together, especially during a World Cup when many will be cheering on their favourite teams in the stadiums of Qatar or from their armchair.
      Gisele Bundchen shows off her love for BrazilCredit: Rex
      Victoria’s Secret model Gisele is one of the world’s sexiest football fansCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      From a Brazilian supermodel, who has just split from her famous NFL legend husband, to a Hollywood A-lister – these are SunSport’s sexiest football fans.
      Gisele Bundchen
      The world’s most famous and successful supermodel, Gisele has never hidden her love for Brazil.
      During the 2018 World Cup, she was spotted cheering on the Seleciao while wearing their famous jersey.
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      She is also pals with Brazil hotshot Neymar, after the pair appeared in Vogue together in 2014.
      The 42-year-old is now said to be divorcing NFL star Tom Brady, after 13 years of marriage.
      Margot Robbie
      Aussie beauty Robbie, 32, is used to turning heads on the screen – after sizzling in films such as Wolf of Wall Street and Birds of Prey.
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      But she must have had a few funny looks when she turned up at Craven Cottage for a Fulham match with husband and producer Tom Ackerley, who is a fan of the Cottagers.
      And Robbie is no stranger to the world of Aussie soccer – revealing she knew who Australian goalkeeper Mat Ryan was.
      During a BBC Sport segment, when she was asked to predict his former side Brighton’s score in an upcoming match, she declared a Seagulls win because she needed to show “Aussie love” for the shotstopper.
      Margot Robbie is a football fan, who follows the SocceroosCredit: Rex
      Glam Robbie visited Craven Cottage to see Fulham playCredit: Rex
      Gigi Hadid
      Supermodels and football seemingly go hand-in-hand nowadays.
      Gigi, 27, was pictured sporting a PSG shirt on a visit to the Parc des Princes with pal Kendall Jenner back in 2015.
      A year later, she was spotted wearing a Bradford City shirt – the team supported by her ex Zayn Malik.
      But her loyalties will always be with Team USA, and she is keen follower of the women’s team.
      Gigi Hadid is a football fan, and was once seen at a PSG gameCredit: Getty
      Hadid was once seen wearing a Bradford City top

      Natalya Nemchinova
      Dubbed ‘Russia’s hottest World Cup fan’, Nemchinova was a favourite for TV cameras at the 2018 competition.
      Often, when there was a break in play, she’d be spotted in the stands – waving a flag in a revealing outfit.
      And the 33-year-old porn star was deemed to be her country’s lucky charm – as they marched on to the quarter-finals.
      However, she didn’t go to the Croatia match – and, just like that, the hosts lost and were out.
      Russian super fan Natalya Nemchinova was a hit at the 2018 World CupCredit: Darren Fletcher – The Sun
      Nemchinova was a porn star in her homelandCredit: Darren Fletcher – The Sun
      Anna Lewandowska
      The wife of Robert Lewandowski rarely misses a game when her husband is playing for Poland.
      Anna, 34, is a former karate champ in her homeland, personal trainer and nutritionist.
      She has been credited with helping the Barcelona ace improve on his fitness by crafting a strict diet for the hotshot striker.
      Expect to see her wearing Poland’s famous white shirt in Qatar.
      Polish beauty Anna Lewandowska is sure to be in the stands when Poland play in Qatar
      Lewandowska is married to Robert Lewandowski and has been credited with helping his careerCredit: Getty
      Emma Louise Jones
      Leeds fans know all about gorgeous Emma, having seen her work as a presenter for LUTV since 2017.
      But most recently she graduated to MOTDx – alongside former footballer Jermaine Jenas.
      Jones has built up a rapport with England stars, interviewing several on international duty through the years.
      She most certainly will be in Qatar on hosting duties.
      TV presenter Emma Louise Jones is a huge football fanCredit: Instagram @eljonesuk
      Jones is a regular at Elland Road and has interviewed a variety of England’s starsCredit: instagram
      Agustina Gandolfo
      Model Gandolfo is the girlfriend of Argentina striker Lautaro Martinez.
      The blonde bombshell was introduced to the Inter Milan star by none-other-than Wanda Nara, the ex-wife of Mauro Icardi.
      She has since grown her own brand as a fitness and healthy lifestyle expert.
      And she now runs her own restaurant in Milan called Coraje.
      Lautaro Martinez’s stunning Wag is stunning Agustina GandolfoCredit: Instagram / @agus.gandolfo
      Argentina fan Gandolfo has amassed almost 800,000 Instagram followers.
      Claudia Guarjardo
      Mexico’s finest TV presenter, Guarjardo once caused a stir when she revealed a new tattoo live on air while filming popular football show, Las Noches del Futbol.
      The inking was in an incredibly intimate place, in which she had to peel down her shorts for cameras to get a glimpse – leaving her co-hosts hot under the collar in the studio.
      Today, the stunning brunette is huge on social media – where she has almost 800,000 followers.
      Better still, she’s a huge supporter of the Mexico football team – sharing her love to her fans online.
      TV presenter Claudia Guarjardo is a Mexico fanCredit: Instagram
      Guarjardo showed off a revealing tattoo on air
      Sara Gundogan
      As Wags go, none are more supportive than Sara, 27.
      She is married to Man City and Germany ace Ilkay Gundogan, with the pair tying the knot back in May.
      And she is always at the Etihad cheering the midfielder on, as well at games watching Die Mannschaft.
      Sara isn’t afraid to wear her stripes either – often supporting her team by donning their jersey.
      Sara Gundogan is one of the world’s most beautiful women, as well as a football fanCredit: Instagram
      Sara shows her love for GermanyCredit: Instagram
      Ivana Knoll
      The 5ft10in Croatian beauty came to prominence at the last World Cup in Russia.
      And a quick glance through her Instagram page shows how patriotic she is – seen in a barely-there bikini decked out in the checkered pattern of the flag of Croatia.
      A former 2016 Miss Croatia World finalist, she is a favourite on TikTok – once causing a stir by sharing a racy twerking clip.
      Should she go to Qatar, she will certainly drive fans wild again.
      Ivana Knoll shows her love for Croatia with her bikini choiceCredit: Instagram / @wearknolldoll
      Knoll was spotted cheering on Croatia from the stands at the 2018 World CupCredit: https://www.instagram.com/knolldoll/?hl=en More

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      Inside Robert Lewandowski’s incredible £7million apartment in Warsaw complete with a golf simulator

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      ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI knows where his roots are.Despite being based in Germany since 2010 and then moving to Barcelona this summer, the striker was happy to splash £7million on a deluxe pad in his home city of Warsaw back in 2016.
      Robert Lewandowski owns a stunning apartment in Warsaw that cost £7mCredit: CEN/ Zlota44
      Lewandowski’s apartment comes equipped with a golf simulatorCredit: CEN/ Zlota44
      The deluxe pad comes with access to a state-of-the-art sports and recreation centreCredit: CEN/ Zlota44
      The living room is spacious and comfortable
      The flat boasts incredible views of the city of Warsaw
      Standard flats in the Zlota 44 tower block range between £242,000 to £1.9m, with the more pricey apartments costing up to £7m.
      Polish-American architect Daniel Libeskind designed the 192-metre tall block and ensured the property was fully stocked with all Lewandowski will need.
      There’s a state-of-the-art sports and recreation centre, a private cinema, golf simulator and wine tasting room, according to Luxurious Magazine.
      Lewandowski, who rakes in £165,000 in his first season as Barca but will earn more each year, said: “Choosing my new apartment was based on practical considerations.
      MOST READ IN FOOTBALL
      “The tower provides some of the best residences in Poland, whilst the sports and recreation centre allows me to complete my training program in the highest quality surroundings.
      “It is important in my profession to always have world-class training facilities on hand and now I’m just a short elevator ride from a full-size swimming pool, fully-equipped gym, luxury spa area, as well as treatment and massage rooms.
      “This was essential for me as it allows me at any given moment to complete my training program in the best surroundings.”
      Lewandowski is widely considered one of the best strikers of his generation.
      He was cruelly denied the Ballon d’Or in 2020 when the award was scrapped due to Covid after he spearheaded Bayern Munich to Champions League glory.
      The bedroom boasts floor-to-ceiling windows
      Standard flats in the Zlota 44 tower block range between £242,000 to £1.9m, with the more pricey apartments costing up to £7m
      A grand piano sits in a reception room
      Lewandowski is Poland’s record goalscorerCredit: Getty Images
      The Polish hero spent eight successful years at the Allianz Arena, winning the Bundesliga title every season.
      He also smashed in a staggering 344 goals in 375 games for the club before deciding he wanted out in the summer.
      Despite being in £1billion of debt, Barcelona somehow stumped up £42.5m to sign him following Sergio Aguero’s retirement.
      Lewandowski bought the apartment back in 2016
      Lewandowski is originally from Warsaw
      The home boasts modern decor throughout
      Robert Lewandowski takes a cheeky picture of and wife Anna as they work out togetherCredit: CEN / Robert Lewandowki More