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      in Soccer

      Michael Owen’s sad decline from England teen hero to Real Madrid flop and ‘most boring’ TV pundit

      by

      MICHAEL OWEN has gone from the golden boy of English football to being considered the ‘most boring pundit’ in the sport.Back in 2002, Liverpool star Owen was fresh off his Ballon d’Or victory having catapulted his career with that stunning goal against Argentina at the 1998 World Cup.
      Michael Owen announced himself to the world’s stage with a stunning goal against Argentina at the 1998 World CupCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Owen was the golden boy of English football at the turn of the centuryCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      That summer, the 22-year-old took a trip to Alton Towers and, to escape his adoring fans, he wore a peaked cap and sunglasses.
      From the highs of being named the world’s best player, and sensationally signing for Real Madrid, Owen’s career slowly spiralled towards retirement and beyond.
      In 2019, Owen was involved in an explosive Twitter row with former pal Alan Shearer after the release of his autobiography last summer.
      But where else to begin than with one of the most memorable goals in English football.
      In Saint-Etienne, France, 22 years ago, an 18-year-old Owen went on the most memorable mazy run around a helpless Argentine defence before giving England the lead.
      ROARING LION
      While Glenn Hoddle’s team were beaten on penalties, knocked out the tournament at the last-16 stage, Owen had announced himself to the world.
      Over the next six years, he scored an incredible 118 goals in 216 games for Liverpool, helping the club to an FA Cup, two League Cups, a Community Shield and Uefa Cup.
      Owen won both Young Player of the Year and Player of the Year in 1998 while also picking up his first Premier League Golden Boot.
      He is one of just two Englishmen to win the Ballon d’Or in over 40 years, with Kevin Keegan picking up the gong in 1978 and 1979.
      So it came as a devastating blow to the Anfield club in the summer of 2004 when Owen was plucked away to be a Galactico in Madrid.
      Owen’s prolific ability helped Liverpool to Uefa Cup victory in 2001Credit: PA:Press Association
      Owen was revered for a sensational goal against Arsenal in the 2001 FA Cup finalCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Owen is the only Englishman in over 40 years to win the Ballon d’OrCredit: ITN
      Real president Florentino Perez said: “Signing Michael Owen is following our tradition. We are signing an excellent player with talent who is able to give us something special.”
      But the move didn’t go as planned.
      Owen was the subject of criticism from the Bernabeu fans and Spanish press due to his lack of form, and he spent much time as a substitute.
      He left Spain after just a year, having scored 13 goals in 36 games, before returning to England with Newcastle United for £15million.
      Over four years, Owen made just 71 appearances and scored only 26 goals for the Magpies.WHY AYE?
      And it was in the North East where Owen’s public fallout with Alan Shearer began.
      Despite forming a formidable strike partnership together for England, a feud was ignited because of Shearer’s belief that Owen let him down during his spell as Newcastle manager in 2009.
      Owen’s book Reboot: My Life accuses Shearer of slating him as well as describing his move to Newcastle as ‘one of the major regrets’ of his career.
      Newcastle’s most famous book shop, The Back Page, refused to stock Owen’s autobiography.
      In 2019, Owen told BT Sport: “For six or seven years, I hated it. I couldn’t wait to retire.
      “It wasn’t me. All I was doing is coming short, linking play and getting in the box.
      “It ended up with people thinking I was a great goalscorer who didn’t do much else.
      “Mentally I could do it, but physically I couldn’t.”
      Owen sensationally signed for Real Madrid in 2004 but only stayed in Spain for a yearCredit: Reuters
      Owen’s autobiography saw him enter into a public spat with Alan Shearer over their time together at NewcastleCredit: Rex Features
      Owen has said he regrets his move to Newcastle, where he stayed for four yearsCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Owen’s career became synonymous with injuries.
      Having torn his hamstring aged 19, leading to five months out, Owen broke a metatarsal in 2005, tore an anterior cruciate ligament and had persistent problems with his thigh and groin.
      He moved to Manchester United in 2009 where he won a Premier League title but scored just five goals in three years.
      His final year was spent at Stoke City before retiring in 2013.
      Having spent most of the season on the bench, Owen offered to resign and retire at Christmas but held on until the end of the season.’MOST BORING PUNDIT’
      He hung up his boots and picked up the mic.
      It is as a pundit that Owen has had most criticism, with the former striker being labelled ‘boring’, ‘monotone’ and ‘annoying’ across social media.
      Armchair fans took offence to some of the less insightful comments produced by Owen during his punditry.
      An article by Football Faithful was dedicated to some pearls of wisdom, including: “If there’s a bit of rain about, it makes the surface wet”.
      Former Newcastle and Chelsea striker Joe Allon described Owen as having “the personality of a flip-flop”.
      Owen won a Premier League title during a three-year spell at Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Owen’s final year as a professional was at Stoke where he spent most of the season on the benchCredit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      Owen has been ridiculed for his work as a pundit since retiring in 2013Credit: Rex Features
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      Where Owen has enjoyed success in recent years is the stables, having invested in racing horses.
      In 2017, he even made his debut as a jockey, finishing second in the saddle at a charity race in Ascot.
      But, elsewhere, the general consensus is that Owen has had a mare. More

    • 188 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Karim Benzema’s amazing car collection is worth £6m, including £2.5million Bugatti Chiron and £1.5million Veyron

      by

      HE’S a real petrol head…As one of the world’s leading forwards, Karim Benzema has made a packet out of the game.
      Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has an incredible car collectionCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      On Instagram Benzema happily shows off his famous cars
      So is it any wonder that he houses these sweet rides in his garage.
      The Real Madrid star, who now has his sights set on Liverpool in the Champions League final, drives a car collection worth an estimated £6million.
      Last year he added a £2.5 Bugatti Chiron to his fleet, and he also has a very rare Bugatti Veyron worth £1.5million, as well as a Ferrari 458 Spider and many more cool cars.
      Feast your mince pieces on the 34-year-old French striker’s enviable motors.
      The new addition…
      Benzema showed off his most recent cool whip – a £2.5million Bugatti Chiron – on Instagram.
      The hypercar absolutely trounces the already brilliant Veyron in terms of performance.
      It’s top speed is limited to 261 mph, while it’s capable of reaching 0-62 mph in just under 2.5 seconds and 186 mph in 13.6 seconds.
      It’s not just a hypercar, it’s a hyper hyper car.

      Suits you, sir! Benzema shows off his new £2.5m Bugatti Chiron
      His boy racer…
      In 2017, Karim Benzema showed off his limited edition Mercedes Benz-SLRCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      The Mercedes Benz-SLR goes from 0-60mph in only 3.5 secondsCredit: Handout
      Benzema’s Mercedes Benz-SLR sits pride and place in his garage, and so it should.
      Worth around £750k, it’s the special Stirling Moss edition version which can go from 0-60mph in just 3.5 seconds.
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      Karim showed off the motor in 2017 on his social media, shortly after crashing his Audi RS6.
      The show pony…
      Footballers like Karim Benzema love FerrariCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      The Ferrari 458 Spider costs around £200,000Credit: Alamy
      Footballers love Ferrari and Benzema is no different.
      He’s been seen regularly darting around the streets of Madrid in a class Ferrari 458 Spider, which has a value of around £200k.
      Other Ferrari 458 Spider drivers include Mesut Ozil, Frank Lampard and Theo Walcott.
      The company cars…
      As part of Real Madrid’s sponsorship deal with Audi, Karim Benzema can get his hands on any of their cars he wantsCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Benzema has been spotted in Audi’s RS6 Avant C7, which is worth £90,000Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      A keen Audi driver, Karim Benzema also owns a Q5Credit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      Corporate sponsorship is a wonderful thing for a footballer.
      Especially if you play for Real Madrid and Audi want a piece of you.
      Thanks to their marketing geniuses, Benzema has been seen in two of their cars – their RS6 Avant C7 model worth around £90k.
      As well as their standard SUV, the Q5, that retails for a modest £40k.
      A true gentleman’s car…Credit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      A Rolls Royce Wraith worth £250,000 sits pride and place in Karim Benzema’s garage
      Karim Benzema isn’t afraid of parking his backside on top of his Rolls RoyceCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      After all, you wouldn’t be a real millionaire without one, right?
      Benzema has the Wraith model, estimated at £250k, sitting pride of place in his Madrid mansion.
      He’s posted moody shots on social media of the beauty, which he hardly seems to drive.
      But he has parked his backside firmly on the car’s bonnet, which is surely sacrilegious.The statement car…
      The Lamborghini Gallardo is a firm favourite with footballers, including Karim BenzemaCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      Able to reach a top speed of 202mph, Karim Benzema loves cruising around in his LamborghiniCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      Karim Benzema can’t decide which car to drive to the supermercadoCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      Popping down to the shops in a red Lamborghini will get you noticed.
      And if it’s a super-speedy Gallardo model, you’ll be sure that Benzema is in and out of the supermercado in minutes.
      Wayne Rooney once had one, as did Robinho when he was at Manchester City.
      It can reach a top speed of 202mph and is Italian craftmanship at its finest.And the Sunday car…
      The Mercedes-AMG Classe G63 is worth around £140,000Credit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      Karim Benzema added the G-Wagen to his car collection in 2017Credit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      Well, if your Sunday car is worth £140k!
      Benzema rides a very well looked-after Mercedes-AMG Classe G63 on his downtime.
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      Often nicknamed the G-Wagen, it’s a comfortable ride that’s been described as one of the best SUVs in the world by motor experts.
      It certainly tickles Karim’s fancy, who added it to his car collection in 2017.Another Bugatti…
      Only 450 Bugatti Veyron cars were made by the French car manufacturerCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      Karim Benzema’s astonishing Bugatti Veyron is worth around £1.5 millionCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      Living life in the fast lane, Karim Benzema’s Bugatti Veyron is fastCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      Benzema’s Bugatti Veyron can reach a top speed of 267.86mphCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      Big-spender Karim Benzema drives a car collection worth around £6millionCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
      What will Benzema drive next?
      His first Bugatti purchase was the ridiculously super Bugatti Veyron.
      Worth £1.5 million, and one of those cars that’s a collectors’ item that grows in price, Benzema clearly loves the stylish supercar.
      It’s the fastest roadworthy car in existence, able to hit a top speed of 267.86mph. Only 450 were ever made.
      Karim Benzema shows off his goal scoring skills in Real Madrid training More

    • 175 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea’s new co-owner Mark Walter owns an animal park with two tigers in Florida

      by

      AMERICAN businessman Mark Walter is a member of the consortium buying Chelsea – and is very much a tiger king.Like infamous zoo keeper Joe Exotic, the billionaire philanthropist operates his own wildlife conservation park which has TWO tigers.
      Mark Walter is part of the consortium set to buy ChelseaCredit: Getty
      Walter owns a conservation park in the US that houses rare tigersCredit: https://www.instagram.com/whiteoakconservation/
      Famed Joe Exotic poses with a tigerCredit: Alamy
      Walter, 62, is one of the three billionaires who are fronting the consortium that has bought Chelsea for £4.25billion, along with Todd Boehly and Hansjorg Wyss.
      He is a self-made billionaire from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, who is worth around £3billion.
      But he is famous in America for being generous with his wealth, and owns a park in Florida dedicated to animal conservation.
      Walter bought the 7,400-acre space for an undisclosed sum back in 2013.
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      It houses over 200 animals – with many endangered or threatened species cared for.
      And that includes two incredible male tigers, cheetahs, and black and white rhino.
      White Oak Conservation was founded in 1982 by American paper producer Howard Gilman.
      Previous guests who have visited White Oak include Madonna, Julia Roberts, Al Gore, Colin Powell, and John Travolta.
      The previous owner built a nine-hole golf course on the land, and US President Bill Clinton visited in 1999.
      It boasts two tigers, making Walter a tiger kingCredit: https://www.instagram.com/whiteoakconservation/
      Rhinos are among the endangered species at the parkCredit: White Oak Conservation
      Around 20 former performing elephants live at White OaksCredit: White Oak Conservation
      Mark and his wife Kimbra got involved almost 10 years ago when they took over the park.
      They have focussed on saving endangered wildlife and habitats through sustainable conservation breeding, education, and responsible land stewardship.
      They revealed when they bought it: “Our primary mission is to build upon the work already under way at White Oak to create an international model for the humane and effective breeding and repopulation of endangered species.
      “We also envision White Oak as a gathering point to inspire ideas and collaborations among individuals and organisations interested not only in conservation but issues such as environmental sustainability, land stewardship, arts and education.”
      .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
      Both of those have been established – as they have continued to protect and propagate rare animals.
      And they also have their own educational programme for local students, which has run from 2019.
      White Oak Conservation share their animals on an Instagram account that’s followed by 23,000 people.
      And it’s their tigers who feature predominantly – play-fighting and flashing their big teeth for the cameras.
      They also took in around 20 elephants that had previously lived in circuses.
      In a statement, Mark and Kimbra Walter said: “We are thrilled to give these elephants a place to wander and explore.
      “We are working to protect wild animals in their native habitats. But for these elephants that can’t be released, we are pleased to give them a place where they can live comfortably for the rest of their lives.”
      But, the park isn’t the only business Walter has in his portfolio.
      White Oak is on the banks of the St. Marys River, 30 miles north of Jacksonville, Florida
      Two tigers that White Oak are supportingCredit: https://www.instagram.com/whiteoakconservation/
      White Oak Conservation was bought by Walter and his wife Kimbra in 2013Credit: https://www.instagram.com/whiteoakconservation/
      Guggenheim Partners
      Where Walter has made his billions is through global financial services firm Guggenheim Partners, which he set up in 2000.
      They boast headquarters in New York and Chicago and have more than £250billion of assets under their management.
      In 2012, he led the Guggenheim Baseball Management consortium alongside Peter Guber, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Stan Kasten, Todd Boehly, and Bobby Patton in buying the storied Los Angeles Dodgers.
      They splashed around £1.7billion on the MLB team that has enjoyed considerable success since, including winning the World Series in 2020.
      “We focused on the team. We focused on the fans in the stadium. Then we focused on the community,” team president and Walter’s business partner Stan Kasten said.
      “The thing that makes me proudest about my partners is that we enunciated all those things clearly on the day we first took over. And they have lived up it.
      “It’s easy to articulate that kind of plan. It’s maddeningly difficult to execute, especially on a sustained basis.”
      Philanthropist Walter has amassed a fortune of around £3billionCredit: Getty
      Chelsea won’t be his only new project
      Extending his sports arm, Walter is not just keen on working with Premier League giants Chelsea.
      Along with the Dodgers, Guggenheim also own WNBA team the Los Angeles Sparks.
      And they are reportedly looking at the prospect of launching a professional women’s ice hockey league as early as next year.
      Tennis legend Billie Jean King, who joined Walter’s group in 2019, is exploring the possibility with the company CEO, and have discussed plans with the Professional Women’s Hockey Players’ Association.
      The Associated Press claimed the PWHPA has signed an agreement with Billie Jean King Enterprises and the Mark Walter Group to expand the association’s effort to establish what would become North America’s second women’s pro league.
      It would feature six teams – with the average salary for players at around £44,000.
      Tennis legend Billie Jean King and Walter are planning on launching a women’s ice hockey leagueCredit: AP
      LA Dodgers have spent big under Walter and won the World Series in 2020Credit: Rex
      Loves spending
      Although we don’t know much about his personal life, which he keeps very private, professionally he isn’t afraid of splashing his cash.
      If the Dodgers are anything to go by, who he took out of bankruptcy, he could easily invest his fortune into the Blues.
      Refurbishment of Stamford Bridge is a must – with talks about a potential move to a new stadium on ice.
      Intriguingly, Walter signed off on around £100million on bringing Dodger Stadium up to modern standards.
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Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}UNDER THE COVERS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}I was snapped in bed with Andy Carroll pre-wedding… here’s what happened
      And he also brought baseball star Freddie Freeman to the team on a six-year contract worth £130million.
      He is the highest spending Dodgers owner in history, so who better to follow in Roman Abramovich’s footsteps than Walter to maintain the Blues’ spending power in years to come. More

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      How Liverpool will beat Real Madrid and why Alexander-Arnold, Diaz and Van Dijk are key stars in Champions League final

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      THE Champions League final is a chance of redemption for Liverpool for their 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid in this fixture four years ago.It is a mark of how impressive a job Jurgen Klopp has done at Liverpool that they go into this match as the favourites against one of the biggest and most successful sides in European football.
      Mo Salah lifts the Champions League in 2019Credit: MatchDay Images Limited
      Gareth Bale celebrates after scoring against Liverpool for Real Madrid in the 2018 finalCredit: AFP
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      Liverpool however have injury concerns to their two most important midfield players in Fabinho and Thiago.
      They do, however, have a deep squad with the likes of Naby Keita and Jordan Henderson proving themselves capable replacements.
      Real Madrid have consistently shown throughout this season’s campaign that they have the ability to come back from seemingly impossible situations.
      And with the likes of Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior in the attack they will provide a real threat.
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Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}TROPHY WAGS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Meet the Champions League final Wags from a doctor to a pop star and journalist
      Vinicius Junior vs Trent Alexander-Arnold
      When Liverpool won the Premier League title in the 2019/20 season they did so via a very specific style of play.
      The attack of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino was, of course, excellent but it was the role of the fullbacks that proved key over the course of the season.
      Trent Alexander-Arnold, at right-back, and Andy Robertson, at left-back, were key in terms of progressing the ball and moving Liverpool into the final third of the pitch.
      However, the following season some teams realised this threat and set up to defend the dangers posed by these players.
      That is, in part, why Liverpool were so intent on signing Thiago when the Spanish midfielder was made available by Bayern Munich.
      They wanted a player in the midfield who could progress the ball.
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      With Real Madrid looking to attack Vinicius makes an initial movement towards the ball before he turns and sprints into the space behind the fullback
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      In this match, especially if Thiago is not fit to start, we will see Alexander-Arnold act as one of the key playmakers for the club.
      The problem is, however, that he will be directly up against one of the best counter-attacking forwards in the game in Vinicius Junior.
      Alexander-Arnold has improved defensively over the last season but he is still at his best in the attacking phase of the game.
      He wants to play on the front foot and get into the channels from where he can really drive the game with his range of passing and creativity.
      The problem for the English right-back is that Vinicius will continually look to exploit any space that he leaves behind.
      Man City’s attack has just broken down in the midfield and Kyle Walker is caught out of position. Vinicius reads the space and makes a diagonal run to isolate and attack the central defender inside
      Real Madrid have already shown that they are more than willing to sit deeper and then look to attack on the counterattack through direct passes down the left wing.
      If the Spanish side can soak up pressure from Liverpool and then attack into space on the left side of the pitch then the pace and the direct dribbling of Vinicius will prove key.
      At the same time though if the Brazilian is intent on not tracking back then Alexander-Arnold will have the time and space to affect the game when Liverpool are attacking.
      The battle on that side of the pitch is likely to be a fascinating one.
      Can Liverpool get Luis Diaz isolated 1v1?
      Liverpool’s decision to pull the trigger on the deal to sign the Colombian winger Luis Diaz from FC Porto of Portugal has looked to be an inspired move. 
      With Roberto Firmino starting to regress and Diogo Jota struggling for consistency in the Liverpool attack the addition of Diaz brought something different to the Liverpool forward line.
      Diaz comes into the channel to receive the ball as Liverpool play out from pressure. The Colombian draws the defender towards him and then beats him with a single touch to drive into space

      His arrival allowed the coaching staff to move their options around.
      Going into this game we are likely to see Mane continue in his new central role while Salah plays from the right and Diaz plays from the left.
      While Salah will continually look to come inside to support centrally, we can expect to see Diaz play wide on the left as he looks to get isolated 1v1 against the opposition fullback.
      The Colombian international winger is the type of player who thrives on having the ball at his feet.
      As Keita switches the play to the left and Diaz we see that he has isolated the defender 1v1. Both Mane and Salah are positioned centrally which prevents the central defenders from getting out to support the fullback
      He is dynamic and powerful in his movements but technically he moves the ball very well and can beat a defender with a trick as easily as he can with a powerful run.
      He is a threat to attack and beat the defender on the inside or the outside every time and given that right-back is one of the weaker areas of the Real Madrid squad he will be looking forward to the game this coming weekend.
      If Liverpool are able to get the ball into the wide spaces for Diaz to attack then we should see them look to overload centrally with the likes of Naby Keita, if he plays, and Salah looking to get inside to connect with Mane.
      Can Liverpool deal with Benzema?
      If Vinicius Junior is a threat for Real Madrid with his raw pace and dribbling ability then Karim Benzema is even more dangerous but more so thanks to his game intelligence and movement in the final third.
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      This is an image from his first leg goal against Manchester City. Benzema has pulled off towards the fullback and got into space between the fullback and the centre back. As the cross comes in he times his movement to get across the face of the defender to finish the chance
      Karim Benzema has 15 goals in the Champions League this season
      The French international forward has been arguably the best forward in European football over the course of the last season and he has proven that he simply gets better with age.
      The ability of Benzema to find space in and around the penalty area and to explode into life when it feels as though the defenders have him covered makes him extremely dangerous.
      And his game intelligence allows him to create separation from opposition defenders as the ball is played in towards him.
      Benzema has a habit of pulling to the shoulder of the defender and then looking to drift off into the space between the defender and the fullback.
      From there, his movement is incisive as he attacks the area and the ball.
      In this game, however, the French forward will be up against one of the best centre backs in football in Virgil van Dijk.
      If Benzema has great attacking instincts then they are at least matched by the defensive instincts of Van Dijk.
      In the match between Liverpool and Spurs we see Harry Kane trying to pull off and onto the fullback to create space. As the ball comes in Van Dijk has already easily read the danger and he clears the ball easily.
      The Dutch international thrives on defending against top forwards and his positional ability and awareness allows him to almost always be in a strong starting position when the opposition are looking to get the ball into the penalty area.
      While Benzema will look to drift and attack space we are likely to see Van Dijk and one of either Joel Matip or Ibrahima Konte defending in such a way to limit the space and opportunities that Van Dijk can take advantage of.
      Who will win it?
      So, basically Liverpool are going to win – if TAA can stop Vini Jr and Van Dijk can take care of Benzema.
      The final between two clubs of insane European heritage has many narratives running through it .
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      But it is hard to see past Jurgen Klopp’s side getting revenge for 2018 and cheering themselves up after missing out on the Premier League.
      For more tactical analysis, scouting and stunning data visuals head over to Total Football Analysis.
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      I played for West Ham at Anfield but quit football for jazz and now I perform with superstars like Stevie Wonder

      by

      WHEN Gavin Holligan was 18, he had the football world at his feet.He appeared for West Ham at Anfield in a 2-2 draw – coming on for Joe Cole and nearly scoring against Liverpool.
      Gavin Holligan is now an accomplished jazz musician after a career in footballCredit: Instagram / @gavinholligan
      Holligan in action for Wycombe WanderersCredit: Getty
      But by 24, and after a series of niggling injuries, Holligan had lost his appetite for the game.
      Instead, the talented vocalist and keyboardist leaned towards music – having graduated from The BRIT School, where the likes of Adele, Amy Winehouse and Jessie J all honed their craft.
      Today, as a brilliant jazz singer and performer Holligan, now 41, has starred on stage alongside Stevie Wonder, played Coachella music festival with Welsh songstress Duffy, and been on tour with Gloria Gaynor.
      And it seems like the American soul singer’s classic hit ‘I Will Survive’, was the mantra for Holligan as he bravely moved from football to music.
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      “Football was my dream as a youngster, before I began a career in music,” he told SunSport EXCLUSIVELY.
      “I joined Crystal Palace academy, was heartbroken after I was released, then after spells at non-league teams Walton and Hersham and Kingstonian, I went to West Ham when I was just 18.
      “By that time I had finished at The BRIT School, but I focused on football after a chat with my dad who said I could do music after.”
      Following a £150,000 move to the Hammers in 1998, which made Holligan the most expensive non-league signing in history, the striker was thrust into the first team for a Premier League match against Liverpool.
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      It was a special occasion for the boyhood Reds fan, who came on as a sub with 10 minutes to go and in a West Ham side that featured Rio Ferdinand and Frank Lampard.
      “It was a moment in time I will never forget,” he said.
      “And I could have scored too, but for David James pulling off a great save.”
      However, Holligan failed to convince manager Harry Redknapp of his abilities and was sent to train with the youth team.
      And things took a turn for the worse when Redknapp discovered Holligan had performed at former international sprinter Julian Golding’s wedding.
      “I asked the youth team manager if it was OK, but Harry found out and went spare,” Holligan said.
      “And I think there was a little bit of tension with the management and me from then on, because they were always looking at my commitment level after that.”
      Holligan was released by West Ham, before signing for Lawrie Sanchez at Wycombe and performed admirably.
      But when Tony Adams took over, he was found to be surplus to requirements and sent on his way.
      Holligan’s love for the game began to wane, and after dropping back into non-league with Havant & Waterlooville injuries also took their toll.
      Injuries took their toll on Holligan who was forced to retire at 24Credit: PA
      A skilled keyboardist, Holligan contacted his old pals from The BRIT School and became a touring musicianCredit: Instagram / @gavinholligan
      “I remember pulling up with an injury, and thinking this was the last time I’d ever really play at a competitive level,” he recalled.
      “I knew at that point I couldn’t sustain it, plus the demoralisation of having to keep battling back from injury and feeling a bit of a nuisance because you’re paid to play football was too much.”
      At 24, Holligan was left on football’s scrapheap. But, remembering back to his conversation with his father, he always knew music was something that he could fall back on.
      He reached out to friends from his days at The BRIT School, and started work as a hired gun for various established artists.
      By 2008, talented Holligan managed to secure work on ‘Mercy’ singer Duffy’s US Tour.
      He played several major American chat shows, and performed at the Coachella music festival.
      “It was an amazing time,” he said.
      “We played Coachella, which was an incredible experience, and I also appeared on Jay Leno and David Letterman.
      “Then not long after that I joined Gloria Gaynor’s support band for a series of gigs celebrating the 30-year anniversary of her hit ‘I Will Survive’.
      “I definitely think being a former Premier League footballer gave me some sort of kudos to my peers, but it helped that I was also bad-ass on the keyboard.”
      Then in 2010, Holligan got to work with a true music legend in Stevie Wonder, who was also a major influence.
      “He was one of my heroes, so to be asked to work with him was a massive deal for me,” he said.
      “Obviously, he’s incredibly and insanely talented live. And he’s just got this cosmic energy. It’s like he can see into your soul.”
      Holligan is enjoying his second life. His first was as a professional footballer. Now, for his second chapter, he’s releasing his own music.
      Holligan appeared on keyboards while Duffy performed on the Late Show by David Letterman on US TV
      Now, at the age of 41, Holligan is making his own musicCredit: Instagram / @gavinholligan
      Stevie Wonder poses alongside Holligan and his backing band
      Current single ‘This Hotel Is Closed’ is being heavily played on Jazz FM at the moment, while some live dates are also planned.
      Holligan revealed: “Being involved in music is just so different to the football world.
      “I can get a call tomorrow from a group who has lost a performer before they play Glastonbury, and I won’t need any pre-match prep like if I was called up for an important game at the last minute.
      “But now I am older person, knowing a bit more about life and seeing things differently to when I was a teenager, I am happy where I am.
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      “Perhaps I was born to be a musician rather than a professional footballer.”
      To find out more about Gavin Holligan’s music, see his website. Alternatively, he has a live date at the 606 Club in London you can buy tickets for. More

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      in Soccer

      Harry Maguire could have been an accountant but Man Utd star has still made his fortune with his ‘massive head’

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED star Harry Maguire may have had a difficult campaign, but at least he’s got the support of his new boss.The Red Devils captain, 29, has struggled for form – like may of his team mates to be fair – in what was a dismal campaign for the 20-time league champions.
      Harry Maguire became the most expensive defender in the world after signing for United in 2019 for £85mCredit: Getty – Contributor
      But Maguire, nicknamed slab-head, could have been an accountant, his former teacher revealedCredit: PA:Press Association
      But despite some inconsistent performances, incoming Dutch boss Erik ten Hag has backed the England star to come good.
      “Next season is a different season,” ten Hag revealed in a press conference.
      “He’s done a great job, and he’s a great player.
      “He’s achieved a lot with his contribution to Manchester United so I’m looking forward to working with him.”
      Maguire has enjoyed a remarkable rise. The burly 6ft 4in defender was a revelation at Leicester City and one of the first names on the team sheet for England, but when he was a kid he was a numbers whizz.
      Maguire attended St Mary’s Catholic High School in Chesterfield, where he excelled with his studies.
      “He was a remarkable pupil who always came in and worked very hard,” Sue Cain, deputy headteacher at the school told the Derbyshire Times.
      “He was never in any trouble and he had such a good attitude. He did everything you asked him to do and he never questioned why. He was a popular lad.”
      The brainy centre half ended up scoring high grades in his exams, including in maths which is where Cain believed he had a future.
      “He got A* and A grades in his GCSEs,” she revealed.
      “I think he would have gone on to study business or maths and probably have been an accountant.”
      In the end, the Sheffield-born star chose football, even though he showed promise at cross-country running, rugby and table tennis as a pupil.

      A keen runner as a kid, Harry Maguire, left, shone at school sports dayCredit: SWNS:South West News Service
      Maguire, second row first from the right, was a brain box at schoolCredit: SWNS:South West News Service
      His former PE teacher, Martin McKee said he was destined to become a footballer.
      “He could really dominate a game from central midfield,” he divulged.
      “He had an aura about him. He could dribble around everyone if he wanted to.”
      FAMILY AFFAIR
      Level-headed Maguire might’ve left the school over 10 years ago, but he’s still very much part of their fabric.
      He returns regularly, giving talks to the boys about his experiences and presented his former teachers with a signed shirt.
      It’s the same school his brother Laurence, who plays for Chesterfield, attended. Their sister, Daisy was also taught at St Mary’s.
      Football in the Maguire clan is a family trait. Another brother Joe, 26, currently plays for Tranmere Rovers.
      But it’s Harry who’s earned all the plaudits and he’s had to work hard to get where he is today.
      As a youngster he looked up to the likes of John Terry and Rio Ferdinand, knowing that he had to work hard on his distribution to be taken seriously in the modern game.
      On a trip to the school, Maguire presented a signed shirt to former PE teacher, Martin McKee and Deputy Headteacher, Sue CainCredit: Glenn Ashley Photography
      As a teenager, Maguire starred for boyhood club Sheffield UnitedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      At The Blades, Maguire won their Player of the Season award three years in a rowCredit: PA:Press Association
      HE ACHIEVED HIS DREAM
      He fulfilled a childhood dream by playing for Sheffield United, where he came through their youth system.
      In his first full season, he helped the Blades into the playoffs as they attempted to gain promotion from League One.
      A heartbreaking penalty shootout loss in the final to Huddersfield Town in 2012 dampened his spirits slightly.
      However, Maguire’s contribution was well-received, and he was named both their Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year during a remarkable nine month spell.
      Sporty Maguire launches a shot put during sports practiceCredit: SWNS:South West News Service
      Maguire’s presented with a house awardCredit: SWNS:South West News Service
      Soon, Maguire was playing in the Premier League with Hull CityCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Maguire scored his first Premier League goal against MiddlesbroughCredit: Reuters
      For the next two years, he was crowned Player of the Year as his star continued to grow.
      PREMIER LEAGUE REGULAR
      In 2014, Steve Bruce, a commanding centre half in his day, decided to splash £2.5m on the promising talent.
      That’s where Maguire continued a trend of rising to a tougher challenge.
      In 2016, he made his Premier League debut with Hull City – becoming a regular when Marco Silva took charge.
      Harry Maguire become an England hero at the World CupCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Fearless defender Maguire helped England reach the semi-finals of the 2018 World CupCredit: Getty – Contributor
      It was a tumultuous season for The Tigers, who in the end were relegated, but for Maguire, personally, it was another landmark.
      Showing his leadership qualities, he captained the East Yorkshire side to victory against Middlesbrough in April 2017 in a 4-2 win.
      He also scored his first Premier League goal – a bullet header – that’s become something of a trademark.
      In 2017, Leicester City secured Maguire’s services for £17m, which had some experts in the game questioning his transfer fee.
      But Maguire instantly became a hero on the pitch with the Foxes. His heart and desire earning him the Players’ Player of the Season, as well as Fans’ Player of the Year in his first season.
      Goals from headers have become Maguire’s trademarkCredit: Reuters
      Leicester City paid £17m for Maguire’s services in 2017Credit: Reuters
      A fearless competitor, Maguire’s a hard grafter on the training pitchCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Maguire modelled his distribution on the likes of John Terry and Rio FerdinandCredit: Getty – Contributor
      His commitment to the cause – Maguire played every minute of the 2017-18 campaign – was adored by his supporters.
      HE’S NOT VERY SHOWBIZ
      Off the pitch, Maguire lives his personal life privately.
      He does have a glamorous Wag in tow, the beautiful Fern Hawkins – a physiotherapy graduate – who rose to fame after she was seen cheering him on in Russia from the stands.
      The pair regularly pose for loved-up selfies on social media, but Maguire is normally one to shun the limelight and glitzy life.
      In 2019, they became parents for the first time – and Maguire shared a snap of his daughter Lillie Saint on Instagram.
      A year later they added Piper Rose to their family.
      Fern Hawkins is Harry Maguire’s stunning wifeCredit: Instagram
      Every inch a Wag, Hawkins shares snaps of her glamorous life on social mediaCredit: Instagram
      Hawkins rose to fame cheering on Maguire from the stands at World Cup 2018Credit: Getty – Contributor
      Despite sharing some snaps on social media, Maguire does like to keep his private life personal
      Maguire got engaged to Hawkins in 2018Credit: Instagram @_fernhawkins
      In 2019 Maguire shared an image of his daughter on social mediaCredit: Instagram @_fernhawkins

      In early May, Maguire and Hawkins finally said their ‘I do’s’ at a low-key Crewe Registry Office ceremony, but plan on having a more romantic ceremony in a chateau in France this summer.
      But don’t be fooled into thinking he’s all glitz and glamour. After all, we’re talking about a man who once reported for England duty with two carrier bags full of his stuff that trended on Twitter. That picture got him a rollicking from his mum.
      “I’ve seen the picture on Twitter with the bags. It was just full of boots and shin pads and dirty stuff which I’ll give the kit man,” he said at the time.
      .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid 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#dcdddd;background-color:#ffffff;}.css-14dqn90{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(4px/2);margin-right:calc(4px/2);}.css-12an5ma{font-family:The Sun;font-size:20px;line-height:1.2;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;padding:1px 0px;}.css-12an5ma::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.261875em + -1px);}.css-12an5ma::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:calc(-0.25em + -1.3px);}.css-1tob514{color:rgba(32,134,98,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;margin-right:4px;}.css-1tob514:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}MODEL CITYZENS .css-1efa55o{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1efa55o:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Meet City’s champion Wags, who joined in celebrations for Guardiola’s team
      “I’ll try and get some better luggage in future. My mum mentioned it. She sent me a text later on saying ‘what’s with the bags?’”
      Should he move to Old Trafford, he can certainly ask Paul Pogba for some luggage advice.
      However, it’s hard to imagine modest ‘slab-head’ being affected by a big-money transfer to start splashing the cash on designer luggage. More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Rafaela Pimenta, the law professor taking over Mino Raiola’s agency who is overseeing Paul Pogba’s Man Utd exit

      by

      BEFORE super agent Mino Raiola passed away last month, he had one request for his long time ally.The Italian, who boasted football stars including Erling Haaland, Paul Pogba and Zlatan Ibrahimovic as clients, asked Brazilian lawyer Rafaela Pimenta to take over the reins of his business.
      Rafaela Pimenta has been handed the reigns to
      It is she who is tasked with advising France World Cup winner Pogba of his next move – with a transfer away from Man Utd reportedly imminent.
      Whether he stays at Old Trafford or re-signs for Juventus, who are believed to have offered the playmaker a three year deal worth £6.3million-per-year deal, Pimenta will be at the centre of all negotiations.
      In truth, she may just be the most powerful woman in football.
      Impressed Raiola
      For 18 years, Pimenta was Raiola’s right-hand woman – working by his side and learning the ropes.
      She was entrusted as a vital cog in his affairs, as well as a brain to lean on for advice.
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Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}MODEL CITYZENS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Meet City’s champion Wags, who joined in celebrations for Guardiola’s team
      Their paths first crossed in around 1998 at launch event for a small Sao Paulo club called Guaratinguetà, which she helped set up with Brazilian legends Rivaldo and Cesar Sampaio.
      At the time, she was also a university professor of international law when she was lured into the world of football.
      While before that, Pimenta worked for an antitrust team set up by Brazilian President Fernando Henrique Cardoso.
      But the chance meeting between Pimenta and Raiola was the beginning of a fruitful relationship – and they would go on to work for 18 years together, before his untimely death at the age of 54.
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      To be closer to Raiola, the businesswoman moved to Monte Carlo and operated from his office in the principality.
      Only a handful of people work at the One headquarters in Monaco.
      One of those is Mino’s cousin Vincenzo Raiola, who mainly takes care of the Italian players.
      But it’s Pimenta who is the power player.
      Pimenta sits alongside Raiola at the Parc des Princes watching PSG in 2017
      A share of the business
      Raiola didn’t trust many people. But he had full faith in Pimenta.
      Intriguingly, she is the only person who he offered shares to at One.
      And it wasn’t just Raiola who benefitted from her expertise – with their client list enjoying her company too.
      In-demand Pogba learned a thing or two from Pimenta about languages, and she taught the Red Devils star a few words in Portuguese.
      She was also a regular in the stands with Raiola at PSG – making connections at the Parc des Princes.
      So she was primed to take over when the time came. And this will be the busiest of summers.
      Mino Raiola’s impressive client list Mino Raiola has handed control over to Rafaela Pimenta of his One agency.
      They boast an incredible client list of the world’s top footballers. Here’s just some of their main players.
      1. Erling Haaland – Man City
      2. Matthijs de Ligt – Juventus
      3. Gianluigi Donnarumma – Paris Saint-Germain
      4. Paul Pogba – Manchester United
      5. Marco Verratti – Paris Saint-Germain
      6. Stefan de Vrij – Inter Milan
      7. Zlatan Ibrahimovic – AC Milan
      8. Marcus Thuram – Borussia Monchengladbach
      9. Moise Kean – Everton
      10. Ryan Gravenberch – Ajax
      11. Donyell Malen – Borussia Dortmund
      12. Alessio Romagnoli – AC Milan

      Raiola’s death
      At the turn of the year, Raiola was suffering with ill health and his workload was eased.
      Then, for two weeks he was hospitalised and lay in critical condition in Milan’s San Raffaele Hospital bed until he died.
      Italian reports suggested he suffered with lung disease, but an official cause of death wasn’t disclosed.
      “In infinite sorrow, we share the passing of the most caring and amazing Football Agent that ever was,” his family wrote in a statement released on Raiola’s official Twitter account.
      “Mino fought until the end with the same strength he put on negotiation tables to defend our players. As usual, Mino made us proud and never realised it.
      “Mino touched so many lives through his work and wrote a new chapter in the history of modern football. His presence will forever be missed.
      “Mino’s mission of making football a better place for players will continue with the same passion.
      “We thank everybody for the huge amount of support received during these difficult times and ask for respect for the privacy of family and friends in this moment of grief. The Raiola Family.”
      Paul Pogba’s footballing future is at the hands of PimentaCredit: Getty
      Moving on
      Raiola’s death came at a time when negotiations for the jewel of his roster were being finalised.
      Erling Haaland’s blockbuster transfer to Man City was completed just two weeks later.
      A total deal, including agents’ fees and the signing-on fee was reportedly worth £85.5million for the business.
      It’s not known how much Raiola contributed, but you can bet Pimenta was heavily involved.
      Next, she will turn her attentions to Pogba – who faces an anxious month or so with his contract soon expiring at Old Trafford.
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      PSG and Real Madrid are monitoring the situation carefully, while Juventus are said to have already tabled their offer.
      Whatever happens, be sure that Pimenta will get the best for the Frenchman. And he might just thank her in Portuguese. More

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      in Soccer

      I trim Jack Grealish’s hair and give Paul Pogba his iconic hairstyles – so I’m ready for the World Cup as their barber

      by

      WHEN a footballer wants a fresh cut, they call up Ahmed Alsanawi – the barber for the world’s elite stars.The 31-year-old stylist has trimmed the likes of Jack Grealish, Eden Hazard, Kylian Mbappe, and Paul Pogba.
      Ahmed Alsanawi is the go-to barber for football’s elite, including Jack Grealish
      This hairstyle for Grealish went viral on social media
      Operating remotely or from his A Star Barbers Shop in Chessington, near Chelsea’s Cobham training ground, it all started for Ahmed in 2013, when a number of Blues youngsters wanted to freshen up their look.
      Since then, business has boomed for the Iraqi entrepreneur – who flew to the 2018 World Cup in Russia to groom the France national squad, upon pal Pogba’s request, and got a shoutout on a social media video after they won the competition.
      And he even appeared in a Pepsi ad, alongside the French midfielder, Argie legend Lionel Messi, Liverpool ace Mo Salah and England winger Raheem Sterling.
      But it was his latest cut of Grealish – who recently inked a deal to be an ambassador for fashion brand Gucci – that went viral.
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      “He’s iconic because everyone copies his hairstyle,” Alsanawi told SunSport EXCLUSIVELY.
      “Even my son comes to me and says he wants to grow his hair like Jack’s.
      “He’s a positive influence, which is why Gucci signed him up, so it’s a pleasure to style him.”
      Alsanawi got into barbering because he was unhappy with haircuts he was getting from his own stylist.
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      He began learning his craft by cutting his own hair, then his family’s, before getting a job in a barber shop.
      “I was a bit lost and didn’t really know what I wanted to do.
      “I had a diploma in art, so I had an eye for it. But when I was getting dodgy haircuts from barbers, it made me decide to chop my own hair.
      “From there, I started cutting family members, and worked in a shop for a couple of years.
      “My wife and I opened up A Star Barbers in 2013, and it’s about ten minutes from Chelsea’s training ground.
      “Organically, all the youngsters – Reece James, Dominic Solanke, and a few others came through the door at first.

      “Then John Terry hit me up one day and asked me to come to the training ground.
      “I did Chelsea’s stars for three years, cutting Eden Hazard, Diego Costa, and even Jose Mourinho.
      “I actually cut Mourinho’s hair on the day he got sacked! He wanted to go short, so I took all his hair off!”
      Social media had a hand in helping A Star Barbers’ rise. Today, their Instagram account has around 718,000 followers, and it’s been through footballers sharing Alsanawi’s haircuts that even more clients have hit him up.
      Through his A Star Barbers business, Alsanawi has created trends in the football world
      Long-standing client Eden Hazard gets a trim from Alsanawi
      “It was a sort of snowball effect, really,” Alsanawi continued.
      “Footballers began sharing photos on social media of the haircuts I gave them, and it blew up for me.”
      Within five years of launching his own barber shop, Alsanawi was invited to Russia during World Cup 2018 by fashionista Pogba and Real Madrid star Hazard to cut their hair before the semi-final.
      “Paul and Eden called me up before they were playing against each other, so I had to go to both teams’ camps to do their hair,” Alsanawi said.
      “Before that semi-final I must have done around 30 or 40 haircuts the day and night before that match. I was so busy.”
      France eventually went on to win the World Cup – defeating Croatia in the final.
      It gave Alsanawi great satisfaction, as well as a thanks from Pogba for helping him achieve his dream.
      “I was on holiday when France won the final, and them winning it made me feel like I contributed to it.
      “And then Paul gave A Star a dedication in a live video when they were celebrating afterwards, which was just amazing.”
      Alsanawi’s growing company now has its own coffee line, A Star Coffee, they do tattoos with A Star Tattoos , and he is launching his own hair products soon.
      With 2022 being a World Cup year, he is also already prepping for the tournament in Qatar.
      “Nothing’s certain, because they might find another barber, but I think I’m going to Qatar with England, France and Belgium.
      Pal Paul Pogba invited Alsanawi to Russia to cut his hair at the 2018 World Cup
      PSG star Kylian Mbappe has since become a regular client
      Pogba’s hairstyles have become famous because of Alsanawi
      “A couple of players from the Qatar national team have reached out to me too, which would be amazing.
      “I’m from the Middle-East, so that would be a privilege to give them haircuts.”
      But he won’t be passing on any tips to any rivals.
      “When I have a footballer in my seat, we don’t talk about the game,” Alsanawi revealed.
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      “I keep it professional and try and maintain friendships by talking about other things.
      “Because, at the end of the day, I am their barber and my job is to make them look good on the pitch.” More