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      in Soccer

      How Man Utd star Cristiano Ronaldo’s partner Georgina Rodriguez went from £250-a-week shop girl to Netflix superstar

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      SHE’S one of the most famous Wags on the planet – but Cristiano Ronaldo’s partner Georgina Rodriguez hasn’t always lived a life of riches and luxury. The 28-year-old Spanish model lived in a cramped, shared house and worked as a £250-a-week ($275) shop girl before a chance encounter with football legend Ronaldo transformed her life.
      Georgina has gone from a £250-a-week shop girl to one of the world’s most famous WagsCredit: Instagram
      A chance encounter with football legend Ronaldo transformed Georgina’s lifeCredit: Instagram
      Now she is enjoying life on our shores, and on the big screen with her hit Netflix documentary, after the five-time Ballon d’Or winner agreed to rejoin Manchester United in a blockbuster move.
      In a candid interview with ITV in 2019, Ronaldo, now 37, described finding “true love” with Georgina after the pair met for the first time at a Gucci store, where she was a sales assistant.
      The Juventus star told Piers Morgan: “She helped me so much. Of course, I’m in love with her.”
      Ronaldo, thought to be worth around £300million ($333m), added that it would be his mum Maria Dolores dos Santos Aveiro’s dream to see him and Georgina walk down the aisle.
      “We’ll be [married] one day, for sure,” he said.
      “It’s my mum’s dream as well. So, one day. Why not? It’s great. She’s my friend. We have conversations. I open the heart for her and she opens the heart for me.”
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      Ronaldo becomes emotional during his candid interview with Piers Morgan
      He described Georgina as his “true love”Credit: Refer to Caption
      The footballer also says he’ll marry Georgina one day ‘for sure’Credit: The Mega Agency
      Georgina lives a life most of us can only dream of – holidaying in Ibiza and Iceland, wearing head-to-foot Chanel and Gucci, and enjoying her boyfriend’s mega yacht and fleet of luxury cars.
      She also stood by Ronaldo after he was accused of raping a model in a Las Vegas hotel room – claims he has emphatically denied and which he will not face any criminal charges over.
      But while Georgina could soon become Mrs Ronaldo, the Wag’s life used to be very different…
      Georgina kisses Ronaldo after a Real Madrid victory – but her life used to be very differentCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Grafting for goals
      The beauty hails from a very humble background, growing up in the tiny village of Jaca, northern Spain, with her Argentine former footballer father, Jorge, and Spanish mother, Ana.
      As a child, she longed to be a ballet dancer. But because her parents couldn’t afford to send her to dance school, Georgina set her sights on a career in fashion retail instead.
      It was clear from a young age that she was ambitious and like Ronaldo – who grew up in a tin-roofed house in Madeira – she did everything in her power to chase her dreams.
      Georgina grew up in a tiny village, Jaca, in the Spanish mountainsCredit: Alamy
      She was desperate to get out of her small town and achieve her dreamsCredit: Instagram
      Living in a cramped house share
      As soon as she was old enough, Georgina moved to Huesca, a small town an hour away, where she got her first job as a waitress.
      However, she soon got bored of the town, and became fed up of living in a tiny home with several other young people.
      Tired of her impoverished lifestyle,  Georgina moved again – this time three hours away to the seaside town of San Sebastian, where she got a job in mid-range shop, Massimo Dutti.
      But despite earning more money, the draw of living the high life saw her make her next big move.
      “I wanted to work in luxury and I understood that for that I had to speak English,” Georgina told XLSemanal. 

      Georgina poses for a typical tourist snap near the London EyeCredit: Instagram
      Nanny in Bristol
      In 2012, aged just 17, Georgina flew to England and got a job as an au pair for a family in Bristol.
      Here, she focused on learning English, earning around £9.50 an hour.
      Once her language skills were up to scratch, she headed back to Spain to pursue her dreams of working in high-end retail in Madrid.
      Georgina lived in Bristol but visited Bath in her free timeCredit: Instagram
      “Love at first sight”
      Georgina finally got her dream job as a saleswoman at Gucci in 2016 – and it was while she was working here that she caught former Real Madrid star Ronaldo’s eye.
      Days later, the pair met again at another brand’s event, where they were able to “talk in a relaxed atmosphere”, outside of a work environment.
      “It was love at first sight for both,” Georgina previously told the Sun on Sunday.
      Georgina finally got her dream job in a designer store in Madrid in 2016Credit: Instagram
      It was “love at first sight” for the coupleCredit: AFP or licensors
      Hounded by fans
      The couple kept their relationship under wraps for the first few months, but once people found out they were dating, football fans started turning up at Georgina’s shop.
      Bosses feared the fans, who were trying to take pictures, would put off their rich clientele, and Georgina was dismissed from her dream job in December 2016 after just eight months.
      Ronaldo’s contacts got her another job in Prada in El Corte Ingles, the famous Spanish department store, where she earned about £1,000 a month plus commission.

      But once again, her relationship cost her a job. Customers kept coming into the shop in the hope of spotting Ronaldo – and begged Georgina for selfies.
      It wasn’t long before management and Georgina mutually agreed it was best if she left and stopped working for good.
      Speaking about her experience, she told Spanish outlet, XLSemanal: “I was hiding, but fans were looking for me at the store. They used to call up and ask about me, pretending to be clients.
      “There were always photographers waiting for me. The director told me to go down to the basement because he did not want to see me in the store. I started to be very uncomfortable and then I left.”
      Georgina’s high-profile relationship has cost her a number of jobsCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      From selling Gucci to wearing it
      While Georgina used to sell designer clothes to the rich and famous, she’s now wearing them herself – from £1,400 Balmain jackets and £5,000 Chanel handbags to a priceless vintage fur coat.
      They were living in a gated mansion in Turin – similar to the £5 million mansion she and Ronaldo used to share in Madrid (but a far cry from the flat she once lived in with pals).
      Now, they will mostly likely be house-hunting in Cheshire’s Golden Triangle for an abode fit for a king and queen.
      Of course, Georgina is used to travelling in style too – jetting off in an £18 million private plane, sailing on a luxury yacht and driving sports cars like Ronaldo’s flashy Bugatti Veyron.
      Since she began dating Ronaldo, Georgina has become a star in her own right, gracing the cover of various fashion magazines while amassing 27 million Instagram followers.
      Georgina is often pictured wearing the most expensive designer clothesCredit: Rex Features
      Credit: Refer to Caption

      The Ronaldo clan enjoy their luxury £5.5m Azimut Grande yacht bought in 2020
      A lavish wedding
      If Ronaldo does fulfil his dream to wed Georgina “one day”, it will likely be a very grand affair.
      Wedding expert and founder of Wedding Ideas Magazine Rachel Southwood told Sun Online: “She’ll probably wear a fit and flare dress that hugs her curves and kicks out at the bottom.
      “It will be slinky and sexy but demure all at the same time – probably in lace, but possibly with some extra bling.
      Georgina loves designer clothingCredit: Rex Features
      “I think she will wear a long lace, scallop-edged veil. Something by a designer like Riki Dalal although I suspect it will be completely bespoke, from the head designer at one of the design houses she has worked with.
      “Their wedding will be lavish and include a church service and a huge feast. It will be family-focused with a few big names thrown in for good measure.”
      Rodriguez sparked engagement rumours last year when she showed off a huge ring in an Instagram post.
      They have so far remain tight-lipped over plans but are expected to tie the knot in the near future.
      Georgina Rodriguez showed off a huge ring on her finger during a holidayCredit: Instagram
      Running Ronaldo’s empire
      But Georgina is very keen not to be perceived as a typical WAG.
      She has previously said she has no interest in just shopping and spending Ronaldo’s money – in fact she might take a more active role in managing his vast fortune.
      Georgina and Ronaldo now have four children between them
      Georgina sparked engagement rumours when she was seen sporting a new ring during the 2018 World CupCredit: Getty – Contributor
      While most women spend their pregnancies decorating the nursery, Georgina spent hers studying financial accounting at the Centre for Financial Studies in Madrid.
      Her course, which started in October 2017 and finished the following March, cost her £780 and saw her attend three-hour long classes twice a week.
      According to El Mundo, it included modules on tax matters, legal obligations and wealth management.
      “I loved earning money for myself and I never let myself be helped when someone offered to lend me a hand,” Georgina previously said.
      “I am realistic and if I see that I can buy something not too expensive I do. If I can’t wear a Chanel, I buy a Zara. Why brag about something that does not belong to you?”
      Ronaldo and his family were living in Turin, northern Italy before returning to Manchester United
      Tens of millions in a divorce
      When Georgina and Ronaldo eventually tie the knot, it’s unlikely the model will ever have to return to her shop girl job – even if they divorce.
      Experts say all her financial worries would be taken care of in a pre-nup.
      Head of Family Law in leading Manchester firm, JMW, Elspeth Kinder told Sun Online: “A prenup would make sure it provides fairly for Georgina’s needs and that of their child in the event of a divorce. It would be tens of millions – but it won’t be a half share of everything he’s got- that’s the point of the pre-nup.
      “The Spanish jurisdiction in divorce is very different to here and tends to be less favourable to somebody like Georgina who comes to a marriage with less money than the other.”
      Yet there’s no sign of trouble on the horizon for Ronaldo and Georgina.
      “Being the partner of someone so famous is not easy but I wouldn’t change it for the world,” Georgina said. “What I feel for him is stronger than anything, any kind of pressure.” More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside MOTD host Emma Louise Jones’ glamorous life from hanging out with Jack Grealish to being a regular at Elland Road

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      STUNNING presenter Emma Louise Jones has quickly become a fans’ favourite on MOTDx.With her lust for life and fun charms, the 30-year-old has won a score of admirers alongside Jermaine Jenas on hosting duties.
      Leeds United are Emma’s major loveCredit: Instagram / @eljonesuk
      Stunning Emma Louise Jones lives a glam life in and out of footballCredit: instagram
      Blonde bombshell Jones presents BBC Three’s MOTDx
      She was already well-known to Leeds fans – first appearing on LUTV in 2017.
      Since then, her career has skyrocketed enabling her to live a glam life – interviewing the likes of Jack Grealish, while enjoying fancy stays at five-star hotels.
      Gorgeous Emma also fronts coverage of LaLiga on Premier Sports, when she isn’t taking time off to cheer on the Whites at Elland Road.
      THE BEAUTIFUL GAME
      Down-to-earth and relatable, Emma has interviewed a number of famous footballers and managers and turned standard interviews into fun skits.
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      She has a particularly good rapport with Jack Grealish, who she has chatted to on England duty numerous times.
      In one hilarious clip, she asked the Man City man to show her where he is from on a map. Amusingly, his reply when he saw the map of Great Britain was to ask: “Is that England?”
      Another time, Jack was interviewed alongside former team-mate John McGinn ahead of the England vs Scotland game at the Euro 2020. Again, he felt at ease in her company as she rattled off the questions.
      Patrick Bamford has also been interviewed by Emma for MOTDx, Leeds United TV, and on her Leeds United podcast various times on the Whites’ plight.
      Most read in Football
      Jack Grealish has enjoyed Jones’ fun approach to interviews in the pastCredit: Instagram / @eljonesuk
      Football legend Alan McInally is one of Emma’s football palsCredit: Instagram / @eljonesuk
      While before the Women’s Euro 2022 tournament, her bubbly personality lent well in a conversation with Lionesses boss Sarina Wiegman.
      Her TV credits also include working with Irish pay channel Premier Sports, on which she hosts their LaLiga coverage.
      Football pals include pundit Alan McInally and Leeds legend Eddie Gray.
      And even the air waves are dominated by Emma – featuring on BBC Radio Five Live’s 606 football phone-in show with Robbie Savage.
      Her love for all things Leeds doesn’t end with hosting their TV channel, or a podcast.
      She’s a regular at Elland Road – cheering the team on even when she’s having a day off.
      DRESSING UP
      When she’s not working in football, Emma loves to glam it up for a night out on the town.
      On social media, she recently shared a pic wearing a figure-hugging black dress at five-star Rudding Park hotel in Harrogate on a dinner date.
      She captioned the snap: “What lasted longer…the shoes or dessert?”
      And in another snap, wearing an amazing white gown for another engagement, she hilariously wrote: “This dress sat through a 3 course meal and came away unscathed. I don’t even know who I am anymore.”
      While at exclusive London hotel The Savoy last year she was an attendee at Dennis Wise in the Community’s Annual Fundraising Ball.
      Her blue dress stole the show. She shared the image on her Instagram, joking: “Sorry for more blue dress spam, but I don’t get out a lot so.”
      Glam Emma dresses up for dinner at Harrogate’s posh Rudding Park
      In a figure-hugging dress, Jones stole the show at The SavoyCredit: https://www.instagram.com/eljonesuk/?hl=en
      Jones isn’t afraid to poke fun at herself on social mediaCredit: https://www.instagram.com/eljonesuk/?hl=en
      SOCIAL MEDIA QUEEN
      But it’s on social media where she appears to be having the most fun.
      Emma has amassed 366,000 followers on Instagram, and is insanely popular on TikTok with 217,000 followers and over two million likes.
      That platform allows her to show off her dance moves and zany sense of humour.
      Adorably, she roped in her grandad to one routine as they shuffled alongside one another.
      She also showed her great sense of humour with a funny anecdote about her boobs.
      She told a story about arriving late for work but when she pitched up she did so with her car horn blaring.
      She explained: “So, when I drove my little BMW 1 series, I am one of those people who like, kisses the steering wheel when they drive.
      “But that meant when I got out, you know, everything was towards the steering wheel, so I would accidentally knock the horn with my, erm, breasts.
      “And it used to scare the s**t out of me!”
      INTERNET TROLLS
      Being on social media has had its drawbacks for Emma.
      Back in 2021, she took to Twitter revealing she fears a ‘long six weeks’ after she was sent a penis picture just three hours into the most recent coronavirus lockdown.
      “Managed to get 3 hours in to lockdown before being sent an unsolicited picture of a penis on social media. This is gonna be a long 6 weeks…” she wrote.

      Emma has amassed over 360,000 followers on Instagram and shares her workouts and dance routines to fans
      However, Jones has also been targeted by trolls online, as well as sent penis picturesCredit: Instagram @eljones90
      Managed to get 3 hours in to lockdown before being sent an unsolicited picture of a penis on social media. This is gonna be a long 6 weeks…— Emma Louise Jones (@eljonesuk) January 4, 2021

      Smart Jones is one of the country’s finest football presenters right nowCredit: Instagram / @eljonesuk
      Sadly, she’s also been the subject of vicious trolls online.
      She told the Yorkshire Evening Post: “It is a real shame because social media is good for so many things and connects so many people. The overwhelming majority of people are nice, fair, kind people but a handful ruin it.
      “My view is if you wouldn’t say it in the street, don’t type it out on a keyboard. People feel online, there is a level of protection when they give this abuse and that they won’t be pulled up on it.” More

    • 238 Shares179 Views

      in Athletics

      ‘World’s sexiest athlete’ Alica Schmidt opens up about that tag, her Paris Olympics dream and studying for a degree

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      ALICA SCHMIDT is used to leaving fans speechless on Instagram with her stunning looks and daring bikini shoots.But the German runner wants to be recognised as a successful athlete first.
      Runner Alica Schmidt has been called the world’s sexiest athleteCredit: Instagram / @alicasmd
      But, German sports star Schmidt wants to be recognised for her speed on the trackCredit: Getty
      The 23-year-old beauty has turned heads on and off the track, becoming a showbiz figure in her homeland and earning the title of ‘World’s sexiest athlete’ from the tabloids.
      However, that means nothing to Schmidt who reached the 400m semi-finals of the European Championships in Munich back in August.
      She dreams of Olympic glory at Paris 2024, and is even making time to finish her studies.
      While, she also understands her brand and is thankful for the opportunity to attend fancy fashion shows around Europe.
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      Speaking to SunSport, Alica revealed: “I think all that matters is my performance and what I bring to the table that counts.
      “I’m focusing on what I want to achieve as an athlete and I try not to let people’s perception of me dictate my behaviour or opportunities.
      “I’m lucky I have such an amazing support system around me and can listen to them and their advice, and at the end of the day I’ll always try to only do the things that make me happy and fulfilled.”
      Fanfare in Munich
      Schmidt returned to the form at Munich 2022, following an injury lay off that derailed her Olympic bid last year.
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      Although she travelled to the Games in Tokyo, she didn’t compete.
      “This was an experience and an opportunity every single athlete always dreams of,” she said.
      “It’s something that has been on my bucket list and the time spent in Tokyo gave me a lot, taught me a lot and simply pushed me forward. It’s something no one can ever take off me which is a really nice feeling.”
      At Munich 2022, Schmidt qualified for the semi-finals of the 400m. It was an emotional moment, especially given it happened in front of her own family. She could be forgiven for breaking down in tears.
      “The European championships in Munich had been something truly special. Not only because I was able to qualify for individuals, but even more special because the competition took place close to where I grew up,” she revealed.
      “This constellation was extremely emotional and the pinnacle was that my parents where in the stadium too.
      “I appreciated the support of everyone so much, that I can’t even find words to describe how I felt during this time. I was completely overwhelmed, but in a positive way.”
      Schmidt returned to form at the European Championships in MunichCredit: Getty
      Schmidt was delighted to be back in front of her own fansCredit: Getty
      ‘I need athletics to live and breathe’
      Running is Schmidt’s true passion. She lives and breathes the sport, training religiously sometimes twice a day.
      And she’s not afraid to push her body to the limit to get results.
      She said: “It’s an amazing thing about passion. If you love something, if you have a strong passion for something, it will get you out of bed, and you make extreme measures to chase the goal.
      “Being on the track, trying to push my myself to the absolute limit, that’s the feeling I live for. It means that I have to sacrifice a lot of things yes, but to me it’s absolutely worth it, as I need athletics to live and breathe.
      “I will do everything it takes to become faster and faster. I train almost every single day, sometimes twice a day. If you have a dream just go for it and don’t compromise on it.
      “I’ve never really allowed anyone to tell me what I was capable of accomplishing and I give everything I have into every single training session.”
      Training hard is important to SchmidtCredit: https://www.instagram.com/alicasmd/
      Schmidt often trains twice a day, including lifting heavy weightsCredit: https://www.instagram.com/alicasmd/
      ‘That’ tag
      In 2017, Australian magazine Busted Coverage ran a feature on Schmidt – calling her the ‘World’s sexiest athlete’.
      It’s a tag that doesn’t sit well with the blonde stunner, and neglects her track and field talents.
      “This title doesn’t mean anything to me,” she revealed.
      “It’s based on a subjective opinion of someone else judging the appearance of a person. I like to think that beauty comes from the inside!”
      Still, Alica does enjoy the trappings of fame and boasts 3.2 million followers on Instagram.
      She attended Milan Fashion Week, while she’s a regular on the red carpet in her homeland.
      Away from the track, Schmidt is happy to embrace fameCredit: EPA
      Schmidt at Milan Fashion Week, alongside supermodel Naomi CampbellCredit: https://www.instagram.com/alicasmd/
      Trendy Schmidt enjoys her lifestyle away from athleticsCredit: https://www.instagram.com/alicasmd/
      She divulged: “All of these experiences are great and it’s still crazy to be me to be invited to such iconic events.
      “What makes it special in the end is the people. All the people I meet along the way are truly inspiring and it’s an honour to be there in the moment next to them.”
      Social butterfly
      On social media, though, Schmidt keeps it professional – focusing on business rather than her personal life.
      “I really don’t feel comfortable sharing my private life with people who don’t know me personally – but at the same time I enjoy using social media and only share the aspects of my life that I want to share,” she revealed.
      “I am so grateful for all of the business opportunities that have risen from my Instagram account and I really have fun creating content for the platform.”
      Despite clearly having the time of her life off the track, her ambition remains the same.
      “My goal is to make it to the Olympics in Paris in 2024 and become faster,” she said.
      Read More on The Sun
      “I’m also still studying and looking forward to get my bachelor’s degree in communication and media design.”
      With such steely determination, you wouldn’t put it past Schmidt to fulfil her dreams.
      On Instagram, Schmidt has amassed 3.2 million followersCredit: https://www.instagram.com/alicasmd/
      However, Schmidt is focused on her goal – making the Olympics at Paris 2024Credit: https://www.instagram.com/alicasmd/ More

    • 263 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Xavi Simons is PSV’s wonderkid who had 2m Instagram followers at 16, came from Barcelona and could be World Cup star

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      BLESSED with an incredible talent at just 13, the burden of expectation on the shoulders of Xavi Simons was huge.He was the great hope at Barcelona, where he honed his skills at La Masia.
      Xavi Simons has starred for PSV this campaignCredit: Getty
      Simons was hailed as a wonderkid at Barcelona aged just eightCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      However, the lure of PSG and opportunity for first team football was too much to refuse – and the midfield playmaker tried his hand in France.
      After one season in Ligue 1, Simons moved again – this time back to his homeland with PSV.
      Under the tutelage of manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, the wonderkid, 19, is finally flourishing and living up to the hype that originally surrounded him.
      Now, there are calls for him to be included in Louis van Gaal’s Holland squad for the World Cup.
      Read more in football
      ‘Golden Curls’
      Simons began his football education at Barcelona, when he was just seven.
      The Catalans saw him as their greatest prospect since Lionel Messi, and fought off teams including Chelsea who tried to poach the superstar-in-waiting.
      One year, at U14 level, he captained a youth side that won all 25 games – scoring 164 times and conceding just 14.
      Most read in Football
      Golden Curls, as he was affectionally nicknamed, even got to meet his idol and namesake, Xavi Hernandez.
      He said: “I was with the physio when Xavi came over.
      “When I told him that my name was also Xavi, he laughed. It was funny. He’s my idol.
      “I know it’s difficult but I will do everything to make it.”
      But it wasn’t to be at Barcelona.
      At eight-years-old, Simons was the star of the Catalans’ youth teamCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      The midfielder idolised his namesake XaviCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      PSG came calling
      The LaLiga giants tried desperately to convince Simons his exciting future belonged at the Camp Nou.
      However, with his path to the first team blocked, he snubbed a new contract at 16, on the advice of his former agent Mino Raiola.
      Instead, an inviting offer from PSG – reportedly worth £1million-per-year – was enough to take him to the Parc des Princes.
      As the man himself explained: “Everyone dreams of playing with Messi, but sometimes there is another way.
      “I decided to try another adventure – and I think that this is good for my development.”
      Little known at the time, Lionel Messi would end up following Simons to Paris two years later.
      But his popularity off the pitch for a boy so young was astonishing – as the hype surrounding the Amsterdam-born youngster grew.
      By the time he was 16, and this is before he’d even made his professional debut, Simons boasted a remarkable two million followers on Instagram.
      While Nike also offered him a bumper sponsorship deal. The world was his oyster.
      In 2019, Simons took his talents to PSGCredit: Refer to Caption
      Neymar became one of his team-mates, but Simons struggled to get a look-inCredit: Refer to Caption
      Again, he would cut a frustrated figure – with reports that he wasn’t progressing as swiftly as was hoped and chances limited.
      Talk of a return to Spain was quashed – with the media in Barcelona insisting his former club were not interested in taking up the option of resigning him with their buy-back clause based on his lack of development.
      Truth was he barely got a game. In his three years, he appeared just 11 times.
      And when he did, luck would have it that he would become the fall guy in defeat – most notably missing a penalty in a shootout defeat to Nice in the last 16 of the Coupe de France.
      Simons took the opportunity to rebuild his career closer to home.
      Return to Holland
      This summer gone, PSV brought Simons back home.
      Initial reports suggested the French giants weren’t willing to let him go, beyond a loan deal.
      When a buy-back clause was inserted, that sweetened the transfer and made the move a permanent one.
      PSV’s new boss Ruud Van Nistelrooy was desperate to work with the boy wonder, seeing more of a forward in him than a midfielder. And he was right.
      In his first four games in the Eredivisie playing in a more advanced position, he netted six times – prompting a compliment from his manager.
      “I’m not even surprised. Before we put him on, I had already seen a lot of him,” Van Nistelrooy told ESPN.
      “I saw that his potential is great and fantastic. I also knew that his character is well constructed. And if you train well and do your job well, you can take big steps. He does that.”
      Xavi Simons has been capped at youth levelCredit: Getty – Contributor
      This season, Simons has had a hand in more goals than other player under 21 in Europe’s top six leaguesCredit: Getty
      Many have tipped Simons to get a call-up for Holland’s World Cup squadCredit: Getty
      Impressively, Simons has had a hand in 14 goals across all competitions this season (10 goals and four assists), which is more than any player under the age of 21 across Europe’s top six leagues.
      There is a belief that Louis Van Gaal has to take him to Qatar as part of the Holland squad for the World Cup.
      It’s also been rumoured that PSG want to exercise their buy-back clause next summer, although Simons isn’t entertaining that thought.
      “There’s a clause in my contract: if I want to go to PSG at the end of the season, I can do that for a certain amount,” he admitted.
      Read More on The Sun
      “To be honest, it’s not in my head to leave PSV. I feel good here and I’ve just settled in. I think you can see that on the field.”
      Simons has come of age – just at the right time – with football’s biggest stage imminent. And he could give the departing Van Gaal the perfect send off by helping him lift’s football’s biggest prize. More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea wonderkid Omari Hutchinson, 18, has been compared to new team mate Raheem Sterling and is a viral sensation

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      CHELSEA moved quickly to re-sign talented teen Omari Hutchinson from Arsenal last season and got a glimpse of his brilliance last night.The wing-wizard, 18, was highly-rated by Gunners boss Mikel Arteta and regularly featured in first team training last season.
      Omari Hutchinson, pictured with head of youth recruitment Jim Fraser, rejoined Chelsea last summerCredit: Chelsea
      Omari Hutchinson celebrates after scoring a scorcher against Leyton OrientCredit: Getty
      Omari Hutchinson was highly-rated at their Hale End academyCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Mikel Arteta was impressed by Hutchinson and included him in first team training
      But, after seven years at Hale End – Cobham will be is now where he his football career is growing.
      And he scored a brilliant solo goal to help their Under-21s beat Leyton Orient 3-2 yesterday which sent Twitter into meltdown.
      On a weekly basis last campaign, it was Arsenal fans that were left purring by the attacker and a piece of magnificent skill he had performed during an Under-23 game.
      Back in October 2021, Hutchinson produced a stunning backheel assist in a 1-1 draw at Bournemouth.
      READ MORE CHELSEA NEWS
      While in January, it was the Blues who were left stunned by Hutchinson’s incredible solo goal in a 4-1 loss in the Papa John’s Trophy.
      His form excited boss Arteta and sporting director Edu, who believed they may have found the next Bukayo Saka.
      Like Miguel Azeez, Charlie Patino and Nikolaj Moller, Hutchinson was on the fringes of a first team call-up, earning rave reviews among the Arsenal coaching staff. However, he never did get that first team call up.
      An attacking midfielder with quick feet and bags of pace, Hutchinson was spied listening attentively to his ex-Spanish boss during coaching sessions in the past few seasons.
      Most read in Football
      HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
      Former Arsenal star David Luiz was also impressed by his efforts – and embraced the youngster with a high-five.
      FULL OF POTENTIAL AND BELIEF
      Back in 2020, Hutchinson signed his first pro contract with Arsenal, who he had been with since the age of 11 after a previous spell in Chelsea and Charlton’s youth ranks.
      “A proud day for me and my family and I look forward to pushing on and continuing to work hard,” he wrote on his Instagram as a caption for a photo that showed him inking his deal.
      Cheekily, he added: “Debut soon to come.”
      The confidence he has in his ability translates to the swagger he plays with on the pitch.
      An attacking midfielder who has drawn comparisons with Raheem Sterling, Hutchinson boasts fine dribbling skills and an eye for a goal playing on the right wing.
      Ironically, Sterling is now his team mate at Stamford Bridge – so he will able to learn first hand from his hero.
      [embedded content]
      Hutchinson signed his first pro contract with Arsenal in 2020
      Hutchinson, pictured with Pele, had been with Arsenal since he was 11
      A quick midfielder, Hutchinson can play out wide or as a No10Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      Big Performance from the boys in a 4-1 Win against Tottenham 👌🏾 Good to get back on the scoresheet plus and assist ⚽️ 🅰️ We go again 🦍 pic.twitter.com/RIZld1a2wM— Omari Hutchinson (@omarihutch7) January 24, 2021

      And Hutchinson knows a thing or two about performing against London teams. Last season, he was the star performer in the 4-1 rout of Tottenham for the U18’s – scoring another brilliant individual goal and grabbing an assist.
      And he is equally as adept playing in a No10 role, while he was also used at left-back.
      ARTETA WAS IMPRESSED
      A few months before Hutchinson penned his deal with Arsenal, he was drafted into a first team training session with Arteta and Arsenal’s main stars.
      Immediately, he impressed his boss with his passing, skill on the ball, movement and his determination.
      Of course, Arteta had heard from Hutchinson’s youth coaches that he was one of the most exciting players in the academy.
      That is now all academic now.
      But there’s still some way to go before we know he can do it with the big boys.
      Last season, he was raved about – scoring a goal in a 4-3 win away at Newport County in the Football League Trophy.
      Fans raved that he was Arsenal’s standout performer.
      His outstanding season was rewarded with an international call-up by Jamaica, which he accepted with glee even though he was capped at England youth level.
      In the Football League Trophy win over Newport County, Hutchinson was Arsenal’s standout playerCredit: Getty
      Ex-Arsenal first team star David Luiz was impressed by HutchinsonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Hutchinson takes the ball past Alex RunarssonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Big things are expected of HutchinsonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      So it’s no wonder Chelsea are happy to have nabbed a Gunners youth star. “We are delighted that Omari has agreed to sign for Chelsea,” head of youth recruitment Jim Fraser revealed.
      “He is a brilliant addition who joins us as an exciting emerging talent hoping to make a quick impression in the senior game.” More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Kobbie Mainoo, 17, who won the FA Cup Youth Cup last season and was named on the bench against Newcastle

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      WHEN stadium announcer Alan Keegan read out the stars on the Man Utd sub’s bench against Newcastle, there was one name that stood out… Kobbie Mainoo.Behind the scenes at Carrington there is a growing belief the talented 17-year-old could be the heartbeat of the club’s midfield for years to come.
      Kobbie Mainoo celebrates wining the FA Youth Cup with Man Utd’s U18’sCredit: Getty
      Mainoo was named on the bench for Utd’s game against NewcastleCredit: Getty
      The Stockport-born youngster was a key member of last season’s successful FA Youth Cup-winning side, and was rewarded with his first professional contract back in May.
      While this season he has continued to progress for the Red Devils – starring against Brighton for the U21’s and following that up with an impressive display against League Two Carlisle in the EFL Trophy.
      Notably, Erik ten Hag has been impressed and has integrated the teenager into first team training sessions.
      A first team debut is surely around the corner…
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      Been with the club since nine
      Mainoo began his football at grassroots level with Cheadle & Gatley junior football club.
      He was scouted by United aged nine, and worked his way through the youth ranks to establish himself as one of United’s biggest prospects.
      In preseason, United fans caught a glimpse of the playmaker in action against Altrincham.
      Most read in Football
      BBC Manchester commentator Jonny Crowther called him a “different class”.
      Earlier this month, Mainoo scored twice in a thrilling 3-3 draw with Brighton for the U21 team.
      While back in August, he had fans purring during a mercurial display against Carlisle in the EFL Trophy.
      His vision, anticipation and tackling ability certainly caught the eye.
      One fan wrote: “I can watch 17-yr-old Kobbie Mainoo’s compilations all day. Manchester United have a player on their hands,” while another said: “Investing in Kobbie Mainoo stocks now.”
      A third said: “I watched Kobbie Mainoo vs Carlisle United yesterday. Ten Haag has to include him in the first team. This is not a joke.
      “He’s a baller. All he needs is the physical strength and forget Frenkie De Jong. He can do the job simple.”
      This season, Mainoo has thrived for the U21’sCredit: Getty

      Ten Hag has listened
      The furore around Mainoo has seen ten Hag, known for giving youth a chance at Ajax, take a closer look at the player himself.
      Already he is training with the first team, as reward for his rapid progression
      He was first named in a United squad against Real Sociedad in the Europa League.
      Then, he appeared on the bench against in their recent Premier League match against Newcastle.
      As ten Hag explained, Mainoo wasn’t there to just make up the numbers.
      At just 17, midfielder Mainoo has been raved about by United fansCredit: Getty
      With first team opportunities in the offing, Mainoo should get used to wearing a club suit in the futureCredit: Getty
      Read More on The Sun
      The Dutch coach told the club’s official website: “It’s not experience it’s about, they [young players] have to deliver.
      “You are here to contribute to the team, to the team’s success, and that is why is here.”
      And here to stay, should he get his opportunity to shine under the lights the Theatre of Dreams. More

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      Karim Benzema’s amazing journey, from ‘sex-tape’ blackmail case and France exile to Ballon d’or winner and model Wag

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      AT 34, Karim Benzema could have been forgiven for thinking his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or were over.But the Real Madrid star is expected to lift the trophy tonight after an incredible season with his club, as well as a return to international football with his country, France.
      Karim Benzema enjoyed a remarkable year with Real MadridCredit: Getty
      Benzema is one of the game’s wealthiest footballers with an enviable car collectionCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
      Benzema, who boasts an incredible car collection and a love of Bugatti motors, scored a staggering 15 goals in 12 games in the Champions League last campaign.
      And he recorded his best ever LaLiga tally – notching 27 strikes in just 32 games.
      A Ballon d’Or win would cap a remarkable journey for Benzema, after he was exiled from the national team and faced trial for his alleged part in blackmailing Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape.
      And in stunning American Wag Jordan Ozuna, who used to work at fast food chain Hooters, he has found love off the pitch and is happy to share that with the world.
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      Best ever season
      Often overlooked and criticised, Benzema has scored 328 goals for Los Blancos – since signing for around £35million in 2009.
      Before last season, he was an underrated cog in sides that won three LaLiga titles and four Champions League trophies.
      However, he played second-fiddle to Cristiano Ronaldo – who was bought the same year from Man Utd.
      Most read in Football
      Unselfishly, Benzema admitted: “When Cristiano Ronaldo played for Real Madrid, he scored 50 to 60 goals a year.
      “So, my moves were to give him an advantage on the field, generate spaces, because I exchanged the ball well in the opponent’s area. He was much more effective than I was.”
      That all changed in 2018-19, when the Portuguese legend left for Juventus. Benzema was left as the main man, and how he thrived.
      Across the previous four seasons, he’s scored 131 goals in all competitions. While in this campaign he has five in 10 games.
      He admitted his priorities changed after CR7 departed for Turin.
      Benzema explained: “It’s been different for me since Cristiano Ronaldo left Real Madrid.
      “It’s true that I’ve scored many more goals, but when Cristiano was here, we had a different style of play, I was providing more assists.
      He really helped me on and off the pitch.
      “But at that time, I did know that I could do more and when he left, it was the time to change my game, change my ambitions and I am doing that well at the moment.”
      In the past four seasons, Benzema has scored a staggering 131 goalsCredit: Reuters
      For several years, Benzema was forced to live behind the shadow of Cristiano RonaldoCredit: EPA
      Sex-tape
      But it hasn’t always been plain-sailing in Benzema’s career. Misdemeanours off the pitch threatened his reputation, and perhaps derailed it somewhat.
      His international career suffered, certainly.
      Slights of character began in 2010, when French TV channel M6 reported that four members of the French national team were being investigated for their roles as clients in a prostitute ring operated inside of a Paris nightclub, with some of the women allegedly being underage.
      Benzema was one of those, along with Franck Ribéry, Sidney Govou, and Hatem Ben Arfa.
      Benzema and Ribéry were acquitted by a judge because of lack of sufficient evidence that the pair knew the prostitutes were underaged. But, the young striker’s card was marked.
      In 2015, Benzema was arrested by police for his alleged part in blackmailing fellow France international player Mathieu Valbuena over the alleged recording of a sex-tape on a mobile phone.
      Noel Le Graet, the president of the FFF, announced a suspension of the striker from the national team..
      The case went to trial in 2021, and Benzema was found guilty of conspiring to blackmail Valbuena with the sex tape.
      Benzema was handed a one-year suspended sentence and fined £75,000.
      Former team mates Mathieu Valbuena and Karim Benzema were involved in a sex tape scandalCredit: Reuters
      Benzema faced trial for his part in the alleged blackmailingCredit: Getty
      After a six-year exile, Benzema is back in the France squadCredit: AFP
      But, it was the cost of losing six years of his international career that hurt the most.
      Since 2021, Didier Deschamps has reinstated Benzema back into the Les Bleus line-up.
      And with 10 goals in his 16 games across the last year, it’s the national side that seemingly lost out on his talents.
      What better way for redemption to lead the French line in Qatar and win the World Cup.
      Finding love
      Fiercely private off the pitch, practicing Muslim Benzema kept his love life out of the limelight during his epic rise.
      He was married to Chloe De Launay, who is the mother of their two children Ibrahim and Melia.
      But their romance was reportedly hit by controversy and alleged infidelity.
      Benzema is now reportedly dating American model Jordan Ozuna.
      The 32-year-old used to work as a Hooters waitress in Las Vegas but is now signed to several US-based modelling agencies.
      And she seems to have encouraged him to open up more about his life.
      Chloe De Launay is the mother of Benzema’s children (Melia pictured here)Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk
      Stunning Jordan Ozuna is Benzema’s current reported girlfriendCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
      Beautiful Jordan used to be a Hooters waitress in Las Vegas, but now modelsCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
      Read More on The Sun
      They both follow each other on Insta and have publicly shared heart emojis during exchanges, while she was said to be in Paris back in May to support Benzema crowned king of the Champions League.
      Maybe she will be there to cheer him on winning the 2022 Ballon d’or at the Théâtre Châtelet in Paris tonight. More

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      in Soccer

      Graeme Souness’s finest moments on Sky Sports like his Pogba obssession as Liverpool legend prepares to retire

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      IT’S seemingly the end of an era.After 16 years as a pundit, Graeme Souness will reportedly leave Sky Sports at the end of the season.
      Graeme Souness is reportedly set to leave his role at Sky Sports at the end of the seasonCredit: Getty
      The fiery Scot, 69, has appeared more sporadically this campaign – and was “happy” to have signed just a one-year deal with Sky in the summer.
      The Athletic say that his latest contract was only for a reduced, set number of appearances and it is possible it could be his last.
      Over the years, Souness has provided much hilarity in the studio with his cutting criticism and honesty, look away if you are Paul Pogba and Jack Grealish.
      And just like his tackling in his hey day, he’s not afraid to pull any punches. Here’s his best moments.
      Read more in sport
      The Pogba affair
      Souness seemingly always had a bee in his bonnet about Pogba.
      But, even though he drew Jamie Redknapp and Gary Neville in heated debates about the World Cup winner, it was a moment with affable Micah Richards that was most surprising.
      It came during a discussion on old comments made by Pogba’s former agent Mino Raiola about the Frenchman’s future at Man Utd. The playmaker would, of course, get his move in the end.
      Most read in Football
      But the pair spoke over each other and gesticulated furiously as they tried to make their points – while Souness even turned his back at one point.
      Richards suggested Raiola had made comments without Pogba’s say-so but ex-Liverpool man Souness was having none of it.
      He blasted: “Not a chance, not a chance. He’s echoing the thoughts of the player.”
      Souness wasn’t having Micah Richards comments about Paul Pogba
      Fiery Scot Souness turned his back on his fellow pundit
      Grealish ain’t all that
      “He’s a good player, not a great player,” Souness has said of Man City’s £100million man Jack Grealish.
      For Graeme, the former Aston Villa playmaker has yet to do it for Pep Guardiola’s side.
      And, during his punditry, he’s let everyone know it. Jack’s not immune to it either.
      Grealish hit back at those comments while away on England duty by insisting: “I don’t know what his problem is, he always criticises me.”
      Amusingly, Souness retorted on talkSPORT: “I’d love a night out with him.
      “I’m not sure I could stay with him but I think I would enjoy a night out with him.”
      Grealish has seemingly taken him up on his offer. He wrote on social media, “🤣🤣 let’s do it!! As long as I can bring Pogba as a +1.”
      Jack Grealish has been Souness’s recent targetCredit: Rex
      A case for the defence
      Gary Neville is used to getting his point across when it comes to his beloved Manchester United.
      But Souness didn’t agree with an assessment that Cristiano Ronaldo needed support up front. No, the European Cup winner slammed the club’s defence.
      Neville said: “The biggest problem United actually have pre-dates Ronaldo. And for me it’s not a Pogba issue either.”
      Souness interjected: “You had to throw him into the mix as well.”
      But Neville carried on: “We can point towards two players, no goals is a mentality issue in a club, it’s a mentality issue in general.
      “United have had just one clean sheet in the last 20 game across all competitions.
      “They’ve conceded 31 goals to Chelsea’s 12, Liverpool’s 16 and Manchester City’s 21.”
      But Souness cut in again and added: “That’s not about having a focal point. That’s not the issue.
      “The issue is you’re too vulnerable.”
      Gary Neville and Graeme Souness got into a heated discussion about Man Utd’s defenceCredit: Sky Sports
      Gary Neville was adamant United’s problems remained upfront and was riled by SounessCredit: Sky Sports
      Neville attempted to diffuse the rising tensions and said: “We’re talking about two different things here, Graeme.”
      But Liverpool legend Souness would not stop. He continued: “It’s not about having a focal point. That’s not the issue.”
      Don’t interrupt him
      North London derby day in 2018, and Arsenal have drawn at home to Spurs 1-1.
      Alongside Souness in the studio is Gunners legend Thierry Henry, who begins with his assessment of the game.
      Henry makes his point about Arsenal stars, their injuries and how unfortunate they’ve been.
      Souness, though, had other ideas. “Arsenal have a lot of players that run with the ball,” he said.
      “That would lend to the idea of stretching more, dribbling with the ball more than anyone else…”
      Souness didn’t like it when Thierry Henry interrupted himCredit: Getty
      Before he can finish, he’s interrupted by Henry – to which Souness barks “I’m talking” at hime.
      It was worth noting a season earlier, Souness was interrupted by Gary Neville – also during an Arsenal game at Man City – and gave him a death stare.
      But he got his own back…
      Fed up of being interrupted, Souness got his own back on fellow Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher last season.
      It started with a debate about Romelu Lukaku’s infamous interview on Sky Sport Italy, when the Belgium striker revealed he wanted to return to Inter Milan.
      Souness felt he should have got more than just being left out of the line up for an important televised game by boss Thomas Tuchel.
      Carragher did his best to defend Lukaku, saying he didn’t say he wanted to leave Chelsea.
      Souness interjected, “No, he did in as many words.”

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

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