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      How Erik ten Hag can get Bruno Fernandes and Zirkzee firing in same Man Utd team as stars compete for playmaker role

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      JOSHUA ZIRKZEE joined Manchester United off the back of a strong season in Italy.The 23-year-old was signed in a £36.5million transfer from Bologna to boost Erik ten Hag’s forward options beyond that of Rasmus Hojlund.Erik ten Hag faces a dilemma to get the best out of two starsCredit: PANew boy Joshua Zirkzee has shown glimpses of his best and how he can work at Man UtdCredit: GettyBut there is a conundrum considering he likes to take up the same spaces as Bruno FernandesCredit: RexBut there is a way the pair can work together to the benefit of the teamCredit: AFPThe Dutch international scored 12 goals and added seven assists in 37 games for the Serie A side as they unexpectedly qualified for the Champions League. However, Zirkzee is a striker who prefers to operate deeper and link play, as opposed to playing high and on the shoulder all of the time.Forwards of this type can work and score goals at the highest level, but there is a need to make sure the rest of the team work in tandem to suit this profile and style of forward.Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino is a famous example of this as he linked with Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane to maximise their impact in games as they stayed higher while the Brazilian dropped deeper.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLUnited arguably have the players to fill these wide attacker roles in Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho, but Zirkzee’s role at present comes into conflict with club captain Bruno Fernandes.It begs the question of whether Ten Hag wants to use Zirkzee or Fernandes as his chief playmaker or whether he can afford to have them both looking to occupy similar spaces and play similar roles.Zirkzee as the deep playmakerZirkzee has had an interesting career path to reach Old Trafford.He moved from the Netherlands to Germany at an early age to join the youth system at Bayern Munich, but he never looked like breaking into the first team at the Bavarian club. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSInstead, he had a series of loans before Bologna took him on a permanent deal prior to the 22/23 season. Zirkzee’s talent has never been in question, but instead, the question mark over him is how to get the best out of him – given that he is not the most prolific of goalscorers.Man Utd player ratings: Joshua Zirkzee hooked again as Lisandro Martinez saves Erik ten Hag’s blushes (2)So, United have to have been aware when they were watching the Dutch forward that he was not perhaps a traditional striker in the way that their fans may have expected. Zirkzee described himself as a “9.5” centre-forward, not one to play high all the time but instead dropping deeper to link play.Here Zrikzee drops deep and wins a duel before playing a quick driven pass forwardsHis ability to drop deep and link play was evident in games against Southampton and Crystal Palace, with his line-breaking passes and making the ball stick pivotal to the team’s play through the thirds. Having Zirkzee playing as the striker and dropping back towards the ball gives a strong platform to play forward and into thanks to him being comfortable receiving the ball with his back to goal and with a defender tight to his back.However, he also has the ability to take the ball and turn and dribble to outplay the opposition player to move into space.He is extremely skilful and comfortable in possession for such a strong forward player and as such when opposition defenders get tight to him he is always a threat to get turned and drive towards goal. In this Serie A example he receives wide with his back to goal dribbling past defenders and playing the ball into spaceAnd crucially, when he gets turned in these deeper positions he then has the quality to make forward passes to release teammates and bring others into the game.As a deep creator, Zirkzee offers a lot of creativity as well as the ability to receive and hold up the ball in deeper areas.Creating in the areaThe seven assists Zirkzee registered last season prove he was operating as a more creative forward option for Thiago Motta’s Bologna side.While we have already discussed his effectiveness when dropping deep to receive the ball and bringing others into the game, he can also perform the same function when receiving with his back to goal in the penalty area and creating opportunities for team-mates.This is a role that would actually fit well for this current United squad.They would effectively be able to use both Fernandes and Zirkzee as creative players with the ability to progress the ball from deep and then link with team-mates in and around the opposition penalty area to create shooting opportunities.The key for United, when they do choose to play Zirkzee as the main striker in their system, is to make sure they have enough players around him who can take shots on goal. We have already touched on the likes of Rashford and Garnacho in particular who are very strong in this regard.But Fernandes himself is also a high-shot volume player who can benefit from the creativity of Zirkzee in these positions.Indeed, the numbers show Fernandes is making the most of this by taking 3.06 shots per 90 minutes, with Zirkzee creating 1.29 chances with 6.04 touches in the opposition box per 90 in all competitionsHere he uses his frame to shield the ball before he is able to flick the ball behind him to play in a team-mate for a chance at goalHaving a target striker who is comfortable taking possession of the ball in higher positions will naturally allow United to concentrate their play higher up the field in areas where they can immediately create danger and put stress on the defences of the opposition.And United have the chance to create a system generates a lot of chances on goal – something the numbers are once again proving is happening.Ten Hag’s team have had 127 shot-creating actions in the league this season.This figure is more than Chelsea (112), Aston Villa (107), Newcastle (104) and Arsenal (92), but they have scored fewer goals. So what is going wrong in the final third?Here Zirkzee is unselfish and passes to a better-positioned team-mate following a low crossIn simple terms, they are not clinical. United have the second-worst Expected Goals underperformance with 4.5 fewer goals scored than an average team would have expected to score, while they also have the most big chances missed of any team in the division with 17.What about Bruno Fernandes?Talisman Fernandes is one of the main culprits of these wasted chances.The 30-year-old has so often been United’s saviour since joining, but he appears to have lost his cut-throat edge at the start of this season, with just 0.7 shots on target per 90 minutesThe main question is whether Ten Hag should start to use Zirkzee as more of a playmaker instead of relying on Fernandes as the main creator and ball progressor when they are in the attacking phase. The answer, however, should probably be that they use both. Fernandes is able to keep defenders guessing with his ability to shoot or create chances out of nothingThere are some teething issues at this stage in the season with United getting used to the fact Zirkzee likes to drop deep and at times occupy the same positions as Fernandes. While this does create an issue, it is something that should be easily fixed as the two players get used to playing together.They will both have to make compromises, and perhaps park their egos so that both can shine in the same team.Fernandes in particular will have to adapt the way he plays for United.With Zirkzee capable of staying higher and providing a platform United can play into, his role should work well with Fernandes when he plays deeper or pulls out into wide areas.This should also help to get the best out of the United wide players such as Rashford, Garnacho and Amad Diallo, who are more than capable of peeling off the shoulder with inverted runsHere we see how he drops deep to get on the ball before playing in Alejandro Garnacho who is making an inside runBy having two real creative forces in their team United have the capacity to become a team that can create chances and score goals on a regular basis. The key for Ten Hag and his coaching staff is to find a way to set the team up in such a way that he can get the best out of both players.ConclusionZirkzee’s signing has been a slow burner.But that is not to say elements of his game have not been impressive.READ MORE SUN STORIESRather, the team’s underperformance in front of goal reflects poorly on him as the striker.If United can create a structure to get the best out of Zirkzee and Fernandes – who must refind his scoring touch – then they may well challenge for Champions League qualification this summer.Man Utd player ratings vs FC TwenteMANCHESTER UNITED’S Europa League campaign got off to a less than ideal start with a miserable 1-1 draw against FC Twente at Old Trafford.That result dealt a big blow to their chances of finishing in the top eight and avoiding two extra fixtures.See how the players rated on an underwhelming night at Old Trafford.Andre Onana – 6Good save to push a free-kick from Sem Steijn to safety but might be disappointed to be beaten at the near post for Twente’s goal.Diogo Dalot – 6Early mistake near the corner flag could have been costly but he caused problems at the other end in build up to Christian Eriksen goal.Harry Maguire – 6Missed his tackle to put United on the back foot for the equaliser but almost won it late on with a header cleared off the line.Lisandro Martinez – 7Made several important clearances but one wild challenge on edge of his box could have proven costly.Noussair Mazraoui – 6New boy looks solid. Vital early tackle and another one later to stop Twente going in front.Christian Eriksen – 7Fourth successive start – and the veteran still looked sprightly. What a strike to give United the lead but then spoiled it with mistake for equaliser.Manuel Ugarte – 6A few good tackles from the new boy but might be disappointed not to clear his lines as Twente broke away for equaliser.Marcus Rashford – 8Much improved display in front of watching England interim boss Lee Carsley. Full of energy, a few tricks and a couple of dangerous crosses. More like his old self.Bruno Fernandes – 6Skipper had a hand in the opening goal and was so close to winning it with curler from the edge of the box.Amad Diallo – 6His pace was too much to handle for the visitors at times but not much of an end product this time and made way for Alejandro Garnacho midway through the second half.Joshua Zirkzee – 5A few good moments and forced a flying save from the visitors’ keeper after nice link up with Diogo Dalot – but then hooked for the fit-again Rasmus Hojlund.Find out how the Man Utd subs rated here More

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      Footballers who appeared in TV and film like David Beckham and Pele as Harry Kane makes his acting debut in porridge ad

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      FOOTBALLERS continue to swap the pitch for a TV and film screen.We’ve seen some who have wrapped up their careers and begun a new chapter in acting.Harry Kane appears in a German advert for 3Bears porridgeKane recently signed up to be the face of the cereal brandWhile others, during the pinnacle of their careers, have starred in TV ads. John Barnes, Lucozade springs immediately to mind.The most recent to make the transition is England legend Harry Kane.The 31-year-old striker recently agreed to become the face of 3Bear, a German-British porridge company based in Munich.In his first campaign for the brand, which is shot like hit TV series The Office, he stars as the “new boy” at the firm.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe 90-second mockumentary advert features Kane as a confused colleague on his first day at the office.He arrives at the 3Bears headquarters and introduces himself to co-owners Tim Nichols and Caroline Nichols.The Bayern Munich star attempts to speak to baffled workers, but they do not respond.Kane then puts a football-shaped mug on the table before asking: “So I guess breakfast is included?”Most read in FootballThe ex-Tottenham striker joins a number of football luminaries who have channelled their Robert De Niro.Vinnie Jones bags huge sum for Netflix doc about Wimbledon footie career – featuring iconic on pitch moment (1)Join SunSport in going through them.Vinnie JonesIt was British filmmaker Guy Ritchie who saw a future for the ex-Wimbledon hardman in films.He cast Vinnie as ‘Big Chris’ in 90s flick Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, in which he worked as a heavy for ‘Hatchet Harry’.A role in Snatch as ‘Bullet Tooth Tony’ followed, and he has since appeared in 109 productions, according to IMDB.He played Juggernaut in X-Men: The Last Stand in 2006 alongside Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart.And he is gearing up to star in The Gentleman – another Guy Ritchie film – that’s been turned into a TV series.Vinnie Jones first appeared on film in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking BarrelsCredit: AlamyVinnie Jones, right, later appeared in Guy Ritchie’s SnatchCredit: AlamyEric CantonaMan Utd legend Cantona is another 90s footballer who caught the acting bug.He unexpectedly retired in his prime at the age of 30 in his prime to pursue his dream.The Frenchman scored his first Hollywood role opposite Cate Blanchett in Elizabeth – playing an ambassador, unsurprisingly from France.He went on to star in plenty of French films, but it was in his star turn in indie film Looking for Eric that he showed a penchant for humour. Eric Cantona appeared as a French ambassador in Elizabeth in 1998Credit: AlamyCantona’s comic turn in Looking for Eric was even betterCredit: AlamyZlatan IbrahimovicIf ever there was a man built for action movies, it has to be Zlatan.The Swedish legend has made his film debut in new Netflix film, Asterix & Obelix: The Middle Kingdom.Of course he plays a Roman centurion and gets to show off his fighting skills in one scene – flicking up a helmet with his feet, before delivering a devastating uppercut blow to a villain and knocking his opponent off his feet.Oscar-winner Marion Cotillard also appears, proving Zlatan is in great company.Zlatan Ibrahimovic stars as a Roman centurion in the new Asterix movieCredit: PatheIbrahimovic attended the film’s premiere this monthCredit: RexRonaldoYou know you’ve made it in life when you appear in The Simpsons.Brazil legend Ronaldo played himself in a 2007 episode of the hit American cartoon.Incredibly, he voiced himself in English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and Dutch.Amusingly, he turns up at a football match Lisa is playing – labelling her “a flopper” after she goes down too easy following a sturdy challenge. Ronaldo appeared as himself in The SimpsonsCredit: Fox BroadcastingAlly McCoistUnbeknownst to many, Rangers and talksSPORT legend McCoist was in a movie opposite Robert Duvall in A Shot at Glory in 2000.He had to play a fictional legendary ex-Celtic player called Jackie McQuillan, which would have hurt.However, McCoist confessed he wore a Rangers jersey underneath a Celtic one while filming.Ally McCoist opposite movie legend Robert Duvall in A Shot at GloryCredit: AlamyDavid BeckhamWith his movie star looks, it’s no wonder Beckham made it in the movies.Pal Guy Ritchie cast him in two of his films, as a projectionist in 2014’s The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and then as Trigger in King Arthur: Legend of the Sword in 2017.In the latter, he starred with Charlie Hunnam.Hunnam told Becks on set: “I said ‘listen pal, this is my movie and I want to be the most handsome man on screen!'”David Beckham appeared in King Arthur: Legend of the Sword in 2017Credit: AlamyBeckham spotted on the set of the Guy Ritchie movieCredit: AlamyFrank LeboeufEx-Chelsea defender Leboeuf made a bizarre cameo in Oscar-nominated movie The Theory of Everything, based on the life of Stephen Hawking.The French World Cup winner popped up as a doctor in one scene, although it wasn’t his acting debut.Previously he appearedin 2001’s Taking Sides, and has also acted in several theatres as well as World War II film Allies.“Journalists have asked me what is the common point between football and theatre, but they are completely different. We are both live — that’s it,” he told The Times.Frank Leboeuf seen in The Theory of EverythingCredit: TM & © Universalread more sport featuresPeleWith his status as the best footballer on the planet in the 1960s and 70s, it was no surprise Hollywood came calling.The late Pele played the role of Corporal Luis Fernandez, a captured POW during the Second World War in the classic Escape to Victory – with Michael Caine and Sylvester Stallone in starring roles too.The 1981 movie featured several footballers, including Bobby Moore and Ossie Ardiles – who are famously pitted against a German team in an exhibition match for their freedom.Pele shares a chat with Sylvester Stallone on set of 1981 film Escape to VictoryCredit: GettyPele was one of a number of footballers who appearedCredit: AlamyCarlo AncelottiIt’s a blink and you’ll miss it moment. But, the Real Madrid legend showed off his inner trekkie – appearing in Star Trek Beyond in 2016.Ancelotti’s brief cameo came at Starbase Yorktown as a doctor, kitted out in a Starfleet outfit as he examined an alien.Ancelotti said to Four Four Two: “I am a terrible actor.“I loved Star Trek as a child, so it is wonderful to be in the film now.”Carlo Ancelotti is a self-confessed Star Trek fanAncelotti appears in a blink and you’ll miss it moment in Star Trek Beyond in 2016Chris KamaraKamara turned out for Leeds, Bradford and Sheffield United – so it was only right that he would turn up on Yorkshire’s famous soap.Kammy appeared in a small role for an episode that was shown in 2019.He played a football coach and was labelled a “gobby manager” in a clash with Bear Wolf.READ MORE SUN STORIESEmmerdale viewers took to Twitter after watching the hilarious cameo.One fan said: “It’s Chris Kamara the Legend!!!! Unbelievable Jeff!!”Chris Kamara played a ‘Gobby manager’ in Emmerdale and ruffled Bear Wolf’s feathers in the soapCredit: ITV More

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      Inside Man Utd star Marcus Rashford’s incredible car collection that now includes chauffeur-driven Bentley worth £200k

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      MARCUS Rashford has got around his driving ban by buying a £200,000 Bentley to be chauffeured around in.The Man Utd forward, who owns a fleet of Rolls Royce motors worth around £2.5million, splashed the cash on the new Flying Spur Azure.Banned driver Marcus Rashford has added another car to his epic garageRashford has bought a £200k Bentley Flying Spur Azure to be driven around inThe luxury motor boasts a V8, four-litre, twin-turbo engine with 550 horsepower and “unrivalled comfort and elegance”.The leather interior features three-dimensional diamond-shaped embossing in the door panels and its longer wheelbase means the car has more space inside for Rash to kick back.The rear seats are equipped with actual pillows for ultimate comfort, and Rashford can watch Netflix on matte monitors mounted on the front seat backs .The car also features a glass-to-glass panoramic sunroof and electric blinds.Read more sports stars’ carsHis new purchase comes a year after he added a £560,000 Cullinan Blue Shadow to his stunning car collection.SunSport wades through his epic garage.Cullinan Blue Shadow, £560,000The bespoke limited edition motor is one of only 62 made.Each one is sprayed “Stardust Blue” to mimic the halo of the Earth’s upper atmosphere — 62 miles from the planet’s surface.Most read in FootballThe 6.75-litre, twin-turbo charged V12 SUV has a luxury interior and an audio system that features 18 speakers.I rebuilt Rashford’s wrecked Rolls-RoyceMan United striker Marcus, 26, also has a £390,000 Black Badge Cullinan and a 700,000 Black Badge Wraith.Rolls-Royce released the Cullinan — named after the famed diamond — in 2018.Car fan Marcus’ Man United team-mate Luke Shaw, 29, and Man City’s Erling Haaland, 24, are other stars to have Cullinans.And those Rolls-Royce motors, worth a combined £2.5million, are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Rashford’s amazing garage.The ace added a £560,000 Cullinan Blue Shadow to his set last yearMarcus in his Black Badge CullinanCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeThe star gets into his Black Badge WraithCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeMcLaren 765 Long Tail, £280,000Rashford bought a McLaren 765 Long Tail worth £280,000.He was pictured jumping into the supercar, after a shopping trip in Cheshire at a jewellers.The McLaren is a seriously speedy car, able to to reach a top speed of 205 mph.It reaches 0-60 mph in a staggering 2.7 seconds.Marcus Rashford boasts a McLaren 765 Long Tail in his collectionCredit: Internet UnknownLamborghini Urus Performante, £350,000The footballer’s choice nowadays.Every Premier League star worth their weight in salt has been seen behind the wheel of one.Powered by 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, the Urus is a beast of a car.Astonishingly for an SUV, it can hit 0-62 mph in just 3.3 seconds.A Lamborghini Urus costs £350,000Audi RS4, £60,000This was Rashford’s very first car.Not bad for an 18-year-old, eh? Who had just broken into United’s first team.He opted for the super-reliable Audi RS4, which used to be the Real Madrid stars’ choice of car, thanks to a sponsorship deal the Spanish club had.It’s where Rashford’s love of cars started.Rashford’s first car was an Audi when he was 18Credit: Cavendish Press (Manchester) LTD M1 3HZread more sport featuresMercedes CLA 45 Coupe, £60,000After emerging from the shadows to become one of the most talked about youngsters in English football, he got himself a fancy Merc.Sadly, he wasn’t in it for every long.Back in 2017, when Rashford was driving home from training, a motorist careered into the right hand side and it was written off.Rashford wrote off his CLA 45 CoupeCredit: 07971 879251Mercedes S Class Coupe, £103,000If one Mercedes isn’t enough, try two.Rashford expanded on his German fleet, introducing a S Class Coupe to his car roster, wrapping it from white to silver.It’s was most luxurious saloon car the motor company produced, which is why it came with such a hefty price tag when he was spotted in it around 2017.Utd forward Rashford then added a S Class Coupe worth £103,000Range Rover Sport, £70,000Continuing to follow in the trend of footballers around the globe, Rashford had a Range Rover Sport too.He went with the Velar from Urban Automotive, a modifier of luxury vehicles.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt would have come souped up, with no luxury or expense spared.His good pal Jesse Lingard also had the same Range Rover, when they played at United together.Rashford spotted driving his souped up Range Rover to CarringtonCredit: Cavendish Press More

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      Former Man Utd stars you won’t believe are still playing in 2024, from Colombian legend to a PSG icon and fan favourite

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      THEY used to grace the pitch at Old Trafford many years ago – and they’re still playing today.These former Manchester United stars just refuse to retire.Edinson Cavani played for Man Utd between 2020-2022Uruguay legend Cavani now turns out for Boca Juniors in Argentina aged 37Credit: AFPMany played under Sir Alex Ferguson, including one who signed for the Red Devils all the way back in 2007.While another South American legend is still a top scorer in the Argentina league for Boca Juniors.SunSport has uncovered nine former stars we just can’t believe are still lacing up their boots.Edinson CavaniThe Uruguay legend is now 37, but he’s still going strong.Read more Man Utd newsCavani currently turns out for Argie giants Boca Juniors, where the goals continue to flow.In 2024, he managed 17 goals in 26 games for the club.At United, from 2020 to 2022, he scored 19 in 59.Radamel FalcaoAnother South American legend, Falcao is now 38.Most read in FootballHowever, that hasn’t stopped him from returning to his homeland to represent top tier side, Millonarios.Incredibly, he was playing in LaLiga last campaign for Raya Vallecano.The goals, though, have appeared to dry up – with just five in his last two seasons.He only managed four in 29 games for Utd though, to be fair.Radamel Falcao didn’t have his best years at Old TraffordCredit: PA:Empics SportNow, at 38, Falcao stars for Colombian side MillonariosCredit: GettySir Alex Ferguson booked me a flight home from my holiday and hauled me back to Man Utd – I hadn’t done anything wrongJavier HernandezChicharito, as he was affectionately known, was a Sir Alex signing in 2010.Unbelievably, he’s only 36 – we were convinced he was older than that.As is with heroes of this nature, a return to their homeland is a required expectation.Hernandez, who scored 59 across six seasons at United, now plays for Chivas in Mexico’s top division.The Little Pea is yet to find the back of the net this season, though.Chicharito was a fans’ favourite at Man Utd – scoring 59 goals for the clubCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdWith slightly less hair, Javier Hernandez plays for Chivas aged 36Credit: GettyFabioAlthough his twin brother Rafael hung up his boots following a series of serious injuries, Fabio is still going strong.The Brazilian, now only 34, stars back home for Gremio.He was signed by United all the way back in 2007, but struggled to hold down a place in the first team before spells with QPR, Cardiff and Middlesbrough.Before returning to Brazil, Fabio was an important player for Nantes in France.Fabio was signed by Man Utd all the way back in 2007Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdToday, his defensive skills are required at Gremio in his homelandCredit: GettyNaniAnother 2007 signing by Fergie, Nani has had an amazing career.Not only did he play on our shores, he’s had spells at clubs in Turkey, Spain, Italy, USA and Australia.Now 37, he’s put in his air miles and is playing in Portugal for Estrela Amadora.They play in Portugal’s top division, with Nani scoring once this season already in just four games.He also recently bought a fourth division team in his homeland and is also the godfather of one of England’s newest heroes.Nani’s goalscoring celebrations were seen at Old Trafford from the NoughtiesCredit: GettyNani loved to celebrate in style with a somersault, including against Bayern Munich in 2007Nani recently scored for CF Estrela da Amadora against BoavistaAdnan JanuzajHow is Januzaj only 29?The winger from Belgium exploded on to the scene under David Moyes when he was just 18.He left Old Trafford in 2017 following loans at Dortmund and Sunderland, enjoying his best years at Real Sociedad between 2017-2022 – scoring 23 times in 168 games.Januzaj is currently on loan at Las Palmas, and is owned by Sevilla. Adnan Januzaj was deemed a wonderkid at Old TraffordCredit: PA:Press AssociationJanuzaj is playing on loan at Las Palmas this seasonShinji KagawaSome 35 years old and still going strong, Kagawa plays in Japan for J1 League club Cerezo Osaka.Widely regarded as one of the best Asian players of his generation, he flattered to deceive at Man Utd between 2012-2014.However, it was at Borussia Dortmund where he was a true hero – enjoying two spells with the German giants.Kagawa also played for Turkish side Besiktas, Real Zaragoza in Spain, PAOK in Greece, and Sint-Truiden in Belgium. Shinji Kagawa never did hit the heights expected of him in ManchesterJapan icon Kagawa is still going strong at the age of 35read more sport featuresNemanja MaticConsidering pace was never a major part of his game, Matic still paying, at 36, is probably more believable than some on this list.The former Chelsea man’s employers are Lyon, where he is seen as an important first team player.Matic played 189 times for United from 2017-2022.He was a favourite of Jose Mourinho, who signed him for both United and Chelsea.Nemanja Matic was a favourite of Jose Mourinho, who signed him for Utd and ChelseaCredit: GettyProving age is just a number, Matic is now a first team player at Lyon aged 36Credit: RexJuan MataSpeaking of Mourinho, Spanish winger Juan Mata was sold to United in 2014 after falling out of favour with the Special One.He starred at United until 2022, reuniting with his former Portuguese manager at the club in 2016.READ MORE SUN STORIESMata, who gives some of his salary away to a charity he co-founded called Common Goal, has since played in Turkey and Japan in a distinguished career.Today, at 36, he was most recently unveiled by Aussie side Western Sydney Wanderers.Juan Mata starred at Man Utd until 2022Credit: Times Newspapers LtdBack in September, Western Sydney Wanderers unveiled Mata as their latest signingCredit: AFP More

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      Meet Liverpool’s stunning Wags, including the ‘most beautiful girl fans have ever seen’ and a fashion model

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      LIVERPOOL are among England’s most successful clubs, so it’s no wonder everyone wants to play for them.Not only have they won the league 19 times, they’ve won the Champions League six times (more than anyone else on our shores).Meet Liverpool’s stunning Wags who you might see at AnfieldHungarian beauty Fanni Gecsek is the partner of Dominik SzoboszlaiFanni is now a fashion model after enjoying a promising tennis careerBecause of the aura of the club and their iconic stadium Anfield, it’s the place to be on a game day.Which is why the posh boxes are filled with plenty of the players’ stunning Wags.From one partner who football fans have called the ‘most beautiful girl they have ever seen’ to a stunning fashion model, meet them below…Fanni GecsekGorgeous Fanni is the missus of Dominik Szoboszlai.Read more football news They reportedly met in 2020, when the talented star was playing for Red Bull Salzburg.The Budapest beauty could have been a sports star herself, excelling at tennis as a youngster and almost making it pro.She has just completed her business degree and is a part-time model.Saffie KhanSaffie is best known for being the girlfriend of Liverpool youngster Curtis Jones.Most read in FootballA successful model, she is signed to M Models Management and has appeared in various fashion shoots.Jones and Saffie began dating in 2019, but they keep their romance private on social media.Gorgeous Saffie Khan has dated midfielder Curtis Jones since 2019Jones and Khan revealed they are expecting their first child togetherTop ten Premier League managers’ WagsBack in May, they revealed they were expecting their first child together.Emilia ScarlettEmilia is reportedly in a romance with winger Harvey Elliot, although conflicting reports have claimed the pair split.She began modelling in 2018, and has since signed to M Models Management.The pretty blonde was first linked to Elliot in 2021, and it was claimed he wore her hairband on the pitch.However, despite being an influencer, Emilia likes to keep her personal life private.Emilia Scarlett is the reported girlfriend of Harvey ElliotEmelia and Elliott were linked to each other in 2021Lucia BramaniLucia has been described by football fans as the ‘most beautiful woman in the world’.The model has amassed over 150,000 followers on Instagram, where she shares her glam lifestyle married to new boy Federico Chiesa.In the past, she has admitted to not being a football fan.Lucy has a degree in psychology at Università Cattolica.Lucia Bramani has been described as the most beautiful girl ever seen by football fansLucia is married to Liverpool new boy Federico ChiesaAilen CovaScandal erupted last year when Alexis Mac Allister’s ex-girlfriend accused Ailen of running off with her man.According to reports, he dumped his former partner for Ailen, her best pal.Mac Allister and Ailen were then pictured together recently as they attended the wedding of fellow Argentine footy star Lautaro Martinez in their first public outing together since the news.They posed while smiling and laughing together – which left Camila feeling like she had been stabbed in the back, which she revealed on a South American TV show.Ailen Cova is the partner of Alexis Mac AllisterAilen was accused of stealing her man off her by Mac Allister’s ex-girlfriendread more sport featuresGera PonceColombian Gera has a staggering 589,000 followers on Instagram, but she is better known as the partner of Liverpool hotshot Luis Diaz.She put out a heartfelt message in support of her other half, following his dad’s kidnapping in their homeland.The pretty brunette was also a pillar of strength when he suffered a serious injury in 2022.They share two children, Roma and Charlotte.Luis Diaz partner Gera Ponce has amassed a staggering following on InstagramGera was a pillar of strength for Diaz when he suffered a serious injury in 2022Noa van der BijCody Gakpo’s stunning model missus has settled into UK life well since his £37million move to Liverpool.Noa is a junior booker for Cachet Models ever since completing her studies in management at Avans University of Applied Sciences.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe blonde is busy on social media and boasts over 43,000 followers on Instagram.And she appears to be very much into the high life as she has posted photos of her in various exotic places, such as Monaco, Ibiza, Saint Tropez and Curacao.Noa van der Bij works for a model agency as a bookerNoa is also the partner of Dutch striker Cody Gakpo More

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      David Raya went from playing non-league and returned from facial reconstruction to become Arsenal hero with wonder save

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      ARSENAL fans’ hearts were in their mouths when Atalanta’s Mateo Retegui appeared odds-on to header a rebound home from his saved penalty.But, hero of the hour David Raya, 29, pulled off the most epic of double saves to ensure the Gunners ended up unscathed in their Champions League opener in Bergamo.Brilliant David Raya has established himself as Arsenal’s No1Raya’s wonder double save against Atalanta spared Arsenal’s blushesA horror injury playing for Blackburn left Raya’s career hanging in the balanceJust 10 years ago, the Spain international was turning out for non-league Southport.However, it was a moment at Blackburn that would define the shotstopper’s incredible courage and bravery.It was an incident that could have, ultimately, put an end to Raya’s career before he would become No1 at the Emirates.In a collision with West Brom’s Jay Rodriguez at the Hawthorns, the former Brentford goalie suffered a serious face-altering injury.Read more football newsMedics rushed to the pitch to give him oxygen, as he lay stricken on a stretcher.He was immediately hospitalised, where he was treated for his injury.Former Blackburn boss Tony Mowbray revealed the sickening extent of the blow in his post-match interview.’His nose was almost pushed into his skull’Speaking to BBC Sport, Mowbray revealed: “The players were feeling sick with what they saw.Most read in Football”He is in hospital. The bone at the top has been pushed into the skull almost and the nose is sort of hanging off really. The players could not look at it, it was that bad.”Baggies forward Rodriguez was equally as shocked and revealed he was devastated about what happened. Arsenal star David Raya shows off new look after undergoing hair transplantHe said: “It’s not nice to see. I was chasing the ball, I tried to get out of the way but I’ve caught him with the top of my foot. “I’ve been told he’s gone to hospital and I’m gutted about that.”Luckily, Raya’s injury was less serious than first feared.When he returned, he wore a protective mask for two weeks.He did have to have nose reconstruction surgery, but waited until the end of the season.At the time, Raya told the Lancashire Telegraph: “It’s not impeding me to breathe or anything and if I had the surgery now [during that season], I would be out for six to eight weeks.”I think it’s the right decision to wait, even though my nose isn’t the same.”It can happen to anyone, it can happen with a header to a centre-back, so that won’t change my type of play or anything.”Players were left shocked by Raya’s horror injury to his noseRaya wore a protective mask when he returned from injury for two weeksNon-league startBefore Raya’s move to North London was completed this summer in a £27million deal, he was plying his trade in the lower leagues.Raya joined Blackburn when he was just 15 from third tier Spanish side UE Cornella for the meagre fee of just £10,000.For the 2014-2015 season, he was loaned out to non-league Southport to ease their relegation fears from the Conference Premier at that time.”He was a young goalkeeper right down the pecking order at Blackburn,” ex-manager Gary Brabin said.”You’re thinking, ‘is he going to be experienced enough for this relegation battle?’ Because you need strong characters.”A new manager comes in, the team is bottom of the league and a lot of people’s heads were down and they were considering what’s next. But that wasn’t the case with David. He was an unbelievable character, confident and bubbly and it was lovely to feed off that and spread it among the squad. It was a great team spirit.”It was his feet that really impressed me. The way David was so confident, we played a lot more football on the ground than other teams at our level and we quickly got out of those bottom four places. He was integral to that because of how good he was.”We felt safe having him at the back and it wasn’t just keeping the ball out, he was starting our play. He was our starting point and it was successful for us.”Raya was plucked from obscurity when he played for Spain third tier team UE CornellaBlackburn Rovers signed Raya when he was just a 15-year-old prospectFor the 2014-15 season, Raya was loaned out to non-league Southportread more sport featuresEstablishing himselfBy the 2017-18 season, 6ft Raya established himself as Rovers No1.His ability on the ball, as well as his cat-like reflexes propelled his side to promotion from League One to the Championship.One thing that stood out amongst his peers were the size of his hands.Former player coach at Rover, Steven Drench, who Raya once called his mentor, also revealed how the future Prem keeper stood out amongst his peers.”The thing about David is he’s not your normal 6ft 4in, 6ft 5in goalkeeper and he’s been fighting against that stereotype,” Drench told Sky Sports.”So, he has to have that little bit more spring, power and athleticism.”You have to be able to make those saves that would be top-drawer saves. But the way he moves around the goal and the way he plays with his feet makes him the all-round package.”When he made a save, we’d always joke that he’d spin on his bum and go the other way. I didn’t want to take that away from him because he could cover the goal that quickly.”You see some of the saves he makes now, he’s saving the ball two or three yards past his post because his feet are that quick. He’s that agile and powerful that when he does take that step, he’s covering more of the goal. He’s making difficult saves look very, very easy.READ MORE SUN STORIESRaya celebrates with fans after helping Rovers get promotedNow Raya is a firm favourite with the Arsenal faithful”And if you ever meet him, he has hands like shovels, they’re massive.”It’s those shovels Ollie Watkins and now Mateo Retegui can testify thwarted their goal efforts. More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Man City vs Arsenal Wags, from a Spanish model to singer on The Voice, as the Premier League titans go head-to-head

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      IT’S the biggest game of the weekend, as the two favourites for the Premier League title go head-to-head.Manchester City face off against Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on Super Sunday in what promises to be a cracker.Football’s most stunning Wags will be watching Man City vs Arsenal on SundayStunning Portuguese beauty Inez Tomaz is a proud support of her Man City beauBlonde Ines is married to City ace Bernardo SilvaThe champions have been flawless in their defence of their title, winning their first four games.While the Gunners have been equally as impressive, winning at Aston Villa and Tottenham in the first month of the season.Watching all the action unfold will be the players’ Wags. From a stunning Spanish model to a singer on The Voice, SunSport invites you to meet them.Inez TomazInes is part and parcel of Man City’s celebrations – appearing on the pitch at the Etihad to toast partner Bernardo Silva’s success, as well as joining the other Wags at exclusive dinners.Read more football news They met in 2020, when they were introduced by pals in their native Portugal, getting engaged just two years later.The pair walked down the aisle in 2023 in front of team-mates including Ruben Dias and Kyle Walker.And in the same year they welcomed their first child together.Ines is a model signed to Portuguese agency NXT Management.Most read in FootballPaige MilianRaheem has dated Paige since his QPR days, when they were teenagers.She used to work at JD Sports, where she caught the Chelsea winger’s eye.Top ten Premier League managers’ WagsPaige has since become a influencer, and manages several properties.They have two children together, while Raheem has a daughter from a previous relationship.She will know the Etihad well, given that her hubby starred there for years.Paige Milian knows what life is like as a City WagHowever, now husband Raheem Sterling plays for Arsenal so she will be cheering on the GunnersSasha AtwoodSasha’s stock rose when partner Grealish signed for Man City for £100million.She is a model and influencer, who has starred in huge ad campaigns for the likes of Boohoo and Pretty Little Thing.She has signed with Elite Model Management and has built up a huge online social media following.An incredible 305,000 followers on Instagram make her an attractive proposition for brands.Skincare is a huge market for her, with L’Oreal featuring in paid partnerships online and make-up tutorial videos she posts.Sasha is currently expecting their first child together.Glam model Sasha Attwood has made a name for herself away from her footballer partnerJack Grealish and Sasha Atwood are one of football’s most famous pairingsSasha is expecting the couple’s first child togetherCatherine HardingBrunette beauty Catherine was one of the stars of Amazon Prime’s Married to the Game docu series.The Irish beauty, who is married to Jorginho, has previous with reality TV.She famous appeared as a contestant on The Voice – and was mentored Ollie Murs.Harding also had a romance with Jude Law, fathering a daughter called Ada with the Hollywood star.Catherine Harding appeared on Amazon Prime’s Married to the GameHarding, who appeared on The Voice, poses with Arsenal star JorginhoIsabel Haugseng JohansenHaaland kept his romance with Isabel under wraps until around 2022, until they were spotted in London’s West End together.The pretty brunette is a footballer herself, having played for Byrne in Norway, where she met hotshot Haaland.The pair grew up together at the club’s academy and it’s believed they began dating during his time at Dortmund.Most recently, they enjoyed a romantic summer holiday in the island of Capri.Isabel Haugseng Johansen grew up with her footballer beau in NorwayErling Haaland and Isabel Haugseng Johansen pose at Ballon d’Or 2023 ceremonySophia HavertzGerman beauty Sophia has been with Arsenal’s in-form Kai Havertz since they were lovestruck teenagers.She joined Instagram at the end of 2020 and already boasts over 390,000 followers.In the past year, she has become close to Martin Odegaard’s partner, Helene Spilling.Sadly, with Odegaard missing with injury they won’t be watching this one together.German beauty Sophia Havertz has become a huge Arsenal fan in the past yearSophia has become firm friends with Helene Spilling, Martin Odegaard’s missusKai Havertz and Sophia got married this summerread more sport featuresSara ArfaouItalian model Sara met Man City star Ilkay Gundogan in 2021.They were engaged later that year, before marrying last year in a private ceremony.Sara was born in France but moved to Italy when she was young, where she worked as a TV presenter.She once slammed Manchester’s dining scene, but since Gundogan’s return to the city has probably had to eat humble pie.Italian beauty Sara Arfaoui was once critical of Manchester’s dining sceneSara’s footballer husband returned to the Etihad this summerSara is the wife of Man City midfielder Ilkay GundoganTatiana TrouboulTatiana used to work in a nightclub before she met Spain goalkeeper David Raya.The Kim Kardashian lookalike also scored paid jobs as a model.But, she has kept her personal life private in regards to her romance with Raya, although they have matching tattoos.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey reportedly began dating in 2021. However, they didn’t go public with their relationship until June 2022.She’s in safe hands with Arsenal’s No1.Tatiana Trouboul worked in a nightclub before meeting Arsenal’s No1Tatiana has scored jobs as a model and bares a resemblance to Kim KardashianDavid Raya and Tatiana went public with their relationship in 2022 More

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      in Boxing

      Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois’ lifestyles compared, with AJ worth over £200m and ‘Dynamite’ driving a £260k Bentley

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      IT’S literally a clash of the titans.Giant sluggers Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois go head-to-head in a best of British fight between two brilliant heavyweights.Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois will duke it out at Wembley StadiumAJ has amassed an incredible net worth over £200millionDubois is believed to be worth around the £5million markIt’s been reported that the prize money on offer for the pair is hugely substantial.AJ is said to be guaranteed £6million, while Dubois can expect a minimum £3.5million.Factor pay-per-view sales and that could mean their earnings will rise substantially.Both boxers already live incredible lifestyles because of their massive earnings through the years.Read more boxing newsHere’s what they like to spend their well-earned money on.Net worthTo spend it, you’ve got to have it.And AJ’s bank has swelled in recent years thanks to some blockbuster bouts and savvy business moves.He has raked in over £200million, thanks to huge pay days when he reclaimed his WBA, WBO, IBO and IBF belts from Andy Ruiz Jr – a career best £66million – to pocketing £31million for defeating Frances Ngannou.Most read in BoxingOutside of boxing, AJ has also invested steadily in property – and owns commercial buildings in Mayfair and Bond Street worth nearly £50million.Dubois’ current earnings are believed to be a lot smaller than AJ’s.How Anthony Joshua has become ‘unbeatable’ in boxing career turnaround with insiders left stunned by heavyweight starHe is believed to be worth around £5million, which has been boosted of late.His first six-figure sum came in 2019 for a fight against Richard Lartey.One of the biggest cheques he received came in 2023, when he was beaten by Oleksandr Usyk.That night he walked away with £1.6million.Adidas boxing, 32Red, and footasylum all add to Dubois’ commercial worth.What’s in their garage?Thanks to his partnership with Jaguar Land Rover, which is rumoured to be worth £790,000 a year, AJ rolls around London in his choice of a fleet of luxury wheels, including a customised white Jaguar XJR, worth £93,000.His favourite motor is his personalised black Range Rover, which he says “looks very professional and sets a standard”.He has come a long way since buying his first car aged 17 – a second-hand Vauxhall Astra that cost £1,500.That said, he loved it – calling the motor a “stable, sturdy car.”AJ has a fleet of motors and is sponsored by Land RoverRegularly, AJ is seen travelling in his favourite Range RoverKind Joshua once bought his old boxing gym a minibusDubois poses with his £75,000 Mercedes V Class vanBut AJ isn’t that flash in comparison to other boxers. There’s no Ferraris or Lamborghinis in sight with his car collection.In any case, he was happy to buy his old gym in North London a new minibus.Despite his more modest wealth, Dubois drives a much more expensive car.It has been reported he gets around in a Bentley Continental GTC convertible that carries a price tag of around £260,000.’Dynamite’ has also been seen behind the wheel of a practical Mercedes V Class van that has a starting price of around £75,000.He once revealed his dream car is a Lamborghini. Perhaps he will treat himself after the AJ fight.Keen travellersWith such a vast wealth at his disposal, AJ is well-travelled.When he isn’t training, AJ enjoys exotic holidays with his family and friends, with his Instagram showing him in Dubai, Jamaica, Miami, Paris and plenty more glam trips.However, he is quite frugal with how he travels.AJ loves travelling on a private jet thanks to a sponsorship with Under ArmourFancy holidays in Dubai allow AJ to relax and unwindKeen traveller Dubois loves seeing the worldDubois poses in Grenada in front of the Concord FallsDubois also revealed he loved staying in MoscowAJ is sponsored by US sportswear giant Under Armour – who provide him with a private jet, as well as paying him a seven-figure salary.Often, trips are sponsored by countries and resorts who want the privilege of having the sporting icon spotted hitting their hottest tourist spots.Like AJ, Dubois also loves travelling and embracing different cultures.Of course, it’s part and parcel of his job.”It’s good when you get to travel and see different places,” he once said.”I went with Alexander Povetkin, who fought Anthony Joshua to Russia and stayed in Moscow for a bit.”On his Instagram, Dubois has also shared pictures of a trip to Grenada, where he saw the picturesque Concord Falls.Luxury itemsWhen it comes to jewellery, AJ loves a good time piece.He owns a £350,000 Audemars Piguet watch that was custom-designed, is made of gold and is diamond studded.AJ flashes his stunning Audemars Piguet watch that cost a pretty pennyDubois has a penchant for very smart and expensive suits from Saville Row’s Aspleyread more sport featuresIn the past, Joshua has spoken before about how it’s the most lavish thing he owns.He has also been seen wearing their sporty Royal Oak Offshore model that costs around £30,000.But Dubois is a man who is a lover of a fine suit.He’s a regular at bespoke Saville Row tailors Aspley, who make sure he looks the business in his pre-fight interviews.Dubois’ dream homeDubois splashed the cash on an Essex home, where he lives with his family, including dad Dave and brothers Prince and Solomon.His sister Caroline reportedly moved out after a family dispute.The mansion features a huge swimming pool, and is lavishly decorated.Wooden sculptures of lions and crocodiles are said to be commonly found around the property.In a video with sponsor 32Red, Dubois gave fans a tour of the place.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey were treated to seeing a modern kitchen, incredible grounds, as well as a trophy room with all his belts through the years.If he overcomes AJ, he will be thinking he can add more to his collection.ANTHONY JOSHUA VS DANIEL DUBOIS: All the information you need ahead of huge world title fight at WembleyDubois lives in a stunning Essex mansion with a swimming poolThe property features a stunning modern kitchenDubois proudly showed of his trophy cabinet in a 32Red promo More