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      in Soccer

      Canada qualify for first World Cup in 36 years, led by an English coach and spearheaded by Arsenal target Jonathan David

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      CANADA are the latest country to qualify for FIFA World Cup.Spearheaded by Arsenal target Jonathan David, they thrashed Jamaica 4-0 at a packed BMO Field to book their place in Qatar.
      Canada have qualified for the 2022 World CupCredit: Rex
      Fans inside the BMO Field celebrate Canada’s epic qualificationCredit: Rex
      The team to beat, they finished top of their group ahead of USA and Mexico.
      And they did it without star man and Bayern Munich ace Alphonso Davies, who has been out of action with a Covid-related heart issue since the turn of the year.
      That has forced the left-back to stream himself watching qualifying games onhis Twitch channel, breaking down in tears on Sunday at his country’s latest success.
      But while David and Davies may have played their part, it’s an unsung British coach that should also get the plaudits.
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      Herd mentality
      Canada are led by Englishman John Herdman, who had a spell as a development coach at Sunderland until 2001.
      The 46-year-old started his coaching journey when he was a student and part-time lecturer at Northumbria University.
      After moving to New Zealand in the early noughties, Herdman joined their national association football programme where he took on roles including coach education manager and director of football development.
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      In 2006 he scored his first management role – when he was named head coach for the New Zealand women’s national team.
      He excelled in the job, guiding them to World Cups in both 2007 and 2011.
      Canada’s women’s national team hired Herdman as their boss in 2011, and he wasted no time by winning a gold medal at the Pan American Games the same year.
      After a successful Olympic qualifying campaign, Canada’s women’s team would compete in the 2012 Games in London, where they would eventually scoop bronze.
      Four years later, Herdman’s Canada would retain bronze at Rio.
      His successful reign saw him bumped up to men’s national team coach, as well as men’s national director, with responsibility for all age groups from under-14s upwards.
      It signalled a new dawn for Canadian football – and within four years years they climbed the world football rankings from 72nd to now 33rd, the highest ever for the country famed for its ice hockey teams.
      Next, he will take his charges to Qatar for the 2022 World Cup.
      English coach John Herdman leads the Canada national teamCredit: Reuters
      Herdman cut his teeth with Canada’s women’s team – winning bronze at the OlympicsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      David & Goliath
      A potential breakout star in the Middle East could well be their explosive forward, 22-year-old Jonathan David.
      Born in New York City, he moved to Haiti when he was a baby but then emigrated to Ottawa as a six-year-old.
      His epic rise saw him go from youth football in Canada to moving abroad to Belgium, where he starred for Gent.
      Within seven months of joining, David made his debut – scoring an injury time equaliser to rescue his side. A star was born.
      Across two seasons as a teenager, he would score 37 goals in 83 games.
      It was enough to encourage Ligue 1 giants Lille to pay £25million for his talents, where he has continued to go from strength-to-strength.
      This season he has been at his most prolific – finding the net 17 times in all competitions, despite the club’s struggles in the league.
      Growing up, he idolised Thierry Henry and is believed to be a top transfer target for Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal.
      With Lille expected to sell in the summer, he could already be a Premier League star when he appears at the World Cup.
      Integral to Canada’s attacking play is Jonathan DavidCredit: AFP
      David, who has 20 goals in 29 matches for Canada, is a reported target for ArsenalCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      All without Davies
      It’s on the left-side where Canada are at their most frightening.
      Working in tandem with David, who likes to drift to that side, is the lighting-quick Alphonso Davies.
      Born in a refugee camp in Ghana after his family fled the Second Liberian Civil War, he overcame adversity to reach the top.
      Back in 2021, he was recorded hitting a top speed of 22mph in a Bundesliga match for Bayern Munich.
      Two years prior, he exploded on the scene after signing from MLS club Vancouver Whitecaps for £9million.
      However, since January Davies has had to watch his country’s historic campaign from the sidelines, or better still his own living room.
      An inflammatory heart condition following a bout of coronavirus hasn’t seen the defender play this year, although now back in training he’s hopeful of playing for the Bavarians in the near future.
      In his spare time, he’s taken to his Twitch channel that’s grown to 271,000 followers.
      When he’s not showing off his skills on FIFA 22, he was streaming himself cheering on Canada’s international games.
      Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David make a lethal combo for CanadaCredit: Getty
      Davies has been sidelined since the turn of the year after suffering with a heart-related issue following a bout of coronavirusCredit: Getty
      On his Twitch channel, Davies has been cheering on the national team in their quest to qualify for the World CupCredit: Twitch: thatboydavies19
      On Sunday, he filmed himself reacting to their epic win over Jamaica in an emotional video.
      Breaking down, Davies tearfully cheered the moment while collapsing to the floor.
      You can bet many proud Canadians will probably be doing the same when they get to see their side in Qatar this December. More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      England star Harry Kane’s very British car collection, as he favours driving a Range Rover, Jaguar and Bentley

      by

      TRUST our Harry.England captain and Spurs star Kane, 28, really does wear his heart on his sleeve when it comes to his country, putting in some inspired performances on the pitch for the Three Lions.
      Harry Kane believes in the best of British when it comes to his car collectionCredit: The Sun
      And if you look closely at his car collection, you’ll see he likes to keep it British too.
      The Spurs striker believes the best is ‘Made in England’, preferring to ride in cars made by Range Rover, Bentley and Jaguar – all made on our shores.
      Family man Harry loves to travel in comfort and style in a sporty Autobiography from Land Rover worth around £99k, and also drives a roomy F-PACE which starts at a modest £35k.
      But when he feels the need for speed, his Continental GT Supersports costing around £212k is just the ticket to get him to and from training at the blink of an eye.
      Three Lions hero Kane drives a Jaguar F-PACE which starts at a modest £35kCredit: The Sun
      “Just to be associated with that British stamp is something that I’m proud of,” Kane said.
      “I pretty much love that Jag. It’s not too big, not too small, it fits our little daughter and the dogs.
      “It’s a family car with a sporty edge. It’s not like you’re embarrassed to drive it as a dad. You’re happy to drive it. It looks nice and it’s not too expensive. It’s been great for me so far.”
      After a hard session on the training ground, most footballers prefer to stretch their legs in a comfy SUV.
      Harry confessed he was no different and the extra space is crucial.
      After a game or training, Kane loves to ride in a spacious SUV
      “After a game or training, you just want to get in a nice car and chill.
      “I had a Range Rover Sport before that. Loved that. I just wanted the bigger version. And I’ve just bought a Bentley Supersports.
      “I thought I’d treat myself to a sports car. I was looking at most of them really, but because I play golf I wanted something with a bit of room, nothing too low, something a bit different.
      “They are only making 710 of them. I’ve gone for white with black wheels. It’s a beautiful, beautiful car. It’s my first real sports car.
      Harry Kane also rides a £212k Bentley Supersports like his teammate Dele AlliCredit: James Lipman
      “Down the line, maybe if I win a few trophies, I can treat myself to a Ferrari or a Lamborghini.”
      For club and country, Harry formed a formidable relationship with Dele Alli.
      The pair have starred for Spurs and England over the years, with their play often telepathic at times.
      That might explain why they both bought the same car!
      Family man Harry Kane loves taking his family for a spin in his F-PACECredit: Instagram @HarryKane
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      “Dele’s just bought a Supersports as well,” Kane revealed.
      “I’ve come in with my Supersports and he’s said, ‘I don’t believe it. I’ve just ordered that as well’. He’s got a black one and I’ve got a white one. It keeps the partnership going!”
      On the pitch, Harry is often getting clattered by opposition defenders, who target him for a kicking. Off it, he’s had a couple of car collisions in his time.
      “On the day of my first Premier League start for Spurs, I crashed in the car park at Costco,” he admitted.
      “I knew I was starting and I was nervous and I wanted to get out of the house. So I took the missus to Costco and did a bit of shopping.
      Kane traded his Range Rover Sport for a bigger Range Rover Autobiography worth £99kCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      At the World Cup in Russia, Harry Kane won the Golden BootCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Kane’s superb form over the years has made him one of the world’s leading strikersCredit: AP:Associated Press
      “You know what those places are like, manic, cars everywhere, and it was raining.
      “I was reversing out just as someone was coming out of the space behind me and we bumped. That was embarrassing.
      “But we went on to beat Sunderland 5-1 that night and I scored. It was a fantastic night. The day didn’t start so well but it’s one I’ll always remember.”
      Ryan Mason is unsure Tottenham star Harry Kane will be fit for Carabao Cup Final More

    • 250 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Former shop assistant Jordan Dawson sells customised football boots to Premier League stars for up to £2,500 a pair

      by

      FORMER Nike shop assistant Jordan Dawson is coining it in by selling his unique designs to footballers.The 27-year-old Chelsea fan can counts Declan Rice, Tariq Lamptey, Adama Traore and even Romeo Beckham as clients with his handcrafted artwork on footwear, including football boots and trainers.
      Dawson quit his day job as a shop assistant at Nike to design trainers and bootsCredit: Jordan Dawson
      Designer Jordan Dawson customises trainers and football boots for stars, including Brazil legend KakaCredit: Jordan Dawson
      Declan Rice shows off a pair Dawson designed for himCredit: Jordan Dawson
      And they pay up to £2,500 for a pair of the customised cleats to wear during Premier League games and for training.
      “I customised trainers – working with Adidas, Nike and Puma for about five years,” Dawson told SunSport.
      “I got invited to the launch of FIFA 20 by EA Sports, and I had my own booth there where I customised shoes for Kaka and Callum Hudson-Odoi.
      “I got approached by someone at BBC Sport who asked me if I’d ever thought about customising boots.
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      “I hadn’t, but it gave me the idea to offer that service to the players.”
      The first to jump on the trend was West Ham and England star Declan Rice.
      “The first pair I made for a footballer was for Declan,” Dawson continued.
      “It really snowballed after he shared it on Instagram, and I got more clients.
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      “Lucas Digne, who was at Everton at the time, got in touch and asked for me to make some for him.
      “Adebayo Akinfenwa, who was at the FIFA event, also wanted a pair which have ‘Beast Mode’ on them.
      “I’ve been doing that since 2021, and was able to quit my day job to focus solely on that.”
      Dawson revealed how he scouts for business – using Instagram to reach out to the pros and show them his ideas.
      “If I approach a footballer, I just message them, introduce myself, and see if they are interested.
      “If they are, then put together a mock-up design and they will often come back to me with what they like and don’t like.
      “With Declan we spoke at the FIFA event, I chased him up on Instagram, and he got back to me with his number.
      A pair Dawson was commissioned to make by Adebayo AkinfenwaCredit: Jordan Dawson
      Lucas Digne wanted the names of his children on his customised bootsCredit: Jordan Dawson
      Romeo Beckham admires Dawson’s handy workCredit: Jordan Dawson
      “We spoke and he just said he wanted something with England on them, as well as his nickname ‘Deccers’.
      “He loved the mock-up, but he was hands-on with the design, saying he wanted things moved around.
      “He’s a really nice guy. We didn’t just have a work-based conversation, he asked what I was doing today. He’s so down-to-earth.”
      With his clientele being sports stars who earn tens of thousands of pounds, and Jordan needing to make a livelihood, he can charge up to £2,500 for his designs, which take him around two days to create.
      He said: “It depends on the design (how much they cost).
      “Sometimes I do things for charity, like a did a pair for Usain Bolt that he wore for Soccer Aid.
      “I told him I didn’t want any money for them, and if he wanted to sell them and donate the money to charity that would work.
      “Obviously this is my living, so I have to charge for it.
      “If there’s some exposure involved, that helps too. The most I’ve received for a pair of boots is £2,500.”
      Players have to ask for permission from their boot sponsors if they’re allowed to wear the custom designed boots during games.
      While others tend to use them training with their teams, or to put on their shelves.
      Usain Bolt had a pair designed for charity when he played in Soccer AidCredit: Jordan Dawson
      Footballers like Ollie Watkins can expect to pay up to £2,500 for the designsCredit: Jordan Dawson
      Dwight McNeil’s love of Marvel reflects in his boot designCredit: Jordan Dawson
      Dawson admitted he gets a buzz out of seeing his creations on the pitchCredit: Jordan Dawson
      Jordan admitted when he sees players wearing them in games, it gives him a huge buzz.
      “It’s a dream come true. I grew up living with football. And I always had a love for art and football.
      “Seeing footballers wear them on the pitch is just incredible. Seeing them score goals, or assist, nothing can beat that feeling.”
      Jordan Dawson’s customised boots can be seen on his Instagram and website. More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd wonderkid Alejandro Garnacho is training alongside Messi for Argentina, and is obsessed by Cristiano Ronaldo

      by

      IN two years, Alejandro Garnacho has gone from promising youth star at Manchester United to getting picked by Argentina.The rapid left winger, 17, was handed a surprise call-up to Lionel Scaloni’s 44-man squad ahead of World Cup qualifying games against Venezuela and Ecuador.
      Alejandro Garnacho has been selected by Argentina and is now training alongside Lionel MessiCredit: Instagram
      Garnacho was a surprise inclusion in Lionel Scaloni’s 44-man squadCredit: AP

      It means, even though he hasn’t appeared in the first team, he will be training alongside legend Lionel Messi.
      The wonderkid has starred for United’s U18s this campaign, excelling in the FA Youth Cup with four goals
      One of those strikes saw the talent run from his own half down the left flank to score against Everton with an astonishing solo goal.
      The fleet-footed forward was the third La Liga starlet join the club in 2020 signing from Atletico Madrid, after the arrivals of Marc Jurado from Barcelona and Alvaro Fernandez from Real Madrid.
      Garnacho was called the ‘jewel’ of Atletico’s academy, and is working hard to emulate his idol growing up.
      He is obsessed by Cristiano Ronaldo, and even wore the same shirt number – No7 as his idol, although he’s had to accept No11 with the Red Devils.
      Still, that didn’t stop him celebrating that goal against Everton with CR7’s famous ‘SIUUU!’ roar.
      STIFF COMPETITION
      The Red Devils were said to have fought off Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund to secure Garnacho’s signature.
      Described as a ‘goalscoring machine’, the Madrid-born teenager was highly rated by Atletico, who were devastated he left.
      He joined the club in 2015, impressing all with his killer instinct in front of goal.
      In 2016, whilst playing for Atletico’s Infantil B, he was Spain’s top scorer – destroying opposition defences with his natural knack for finding the back of the net.
      Manchester United ace Garnacho is excelling in the club’s academyCredit: Getty
      Garnacho, who had been with Atletico since 2015, was said to be the ‘jewel’ of the club’s academyCredit: La Liga promises
      Talented Garnacho is said to be a goalscoring machineCredit: La Liga promises
      Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund were also reportedly interested in GarnachoCredit: Instagram / @garnacho7
      QUICK AND NIMBLE
      Blessed with a flawless technique, Garnacho boasts attributes including close ball control that make it difficult for defenders to rob the ball off him.
      In the penalty area he’s intuitive and clinical, preferring to shift the ball onto his right foot before calmly slotting the ball home.
      A real predator in front of goal, Garnacho is also adept at finding space in the penalty box, and is an instinctive poacher.
      Moving to Old Trafford was said to be an easy decision for him, because it has allowed him to follow in the footsteps of his Portuguese hero.
      READY FOR STARDOM
      From a young age Garnacho’s potential has seen him primed for the top.
      At 15, he already found himself enjoying run-outs for Atletico’s U19 team.
      Garnacho wants to emulate his idol Cristiano RonaldoCredit: La Liga promises
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      This campaign he has thrived with United’s academy, playing for both the U18 and U23 sides.
      In all competitions, Garnacho has managed 11 goals in 28 matches – as well as six assists.
      And now, internationally recognised, surely it won’t be long before he finds himself in the United first team. More

    • 188 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Footballers who made stunning retirement U-turns including Scholes and Robben after Denilson returns aged 44

      by

      THEY just didn’t want to hang up their boots.These footballing stars were initially happy to retire, but performed a sensational U-turn when they were either needed to play, or simply missed the action.
      Brazilian legend Denilson is the latest star to come out of retirementCredit: EPA
      The star, once the world’s most-expensive player, is pulling on the boots again aged 44Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Brazilian legend Denilson de Oliveira, once the world’s most expensive player, has just announced his sensational return to football aged 44.
      Simply known as Denilson, the winger has penned a deal with Brazilian lower league side Ibis Sport Club – 12 YEARS after initially hanging up his boots.
      The star played 61 times for Brazil between 1996 and 2003, and lifted the World Cup in 2002.
      His £21.5million move from Sao Paulo in his homeland to Spanish outfit Real Betis in 1998 made him the world’s most expensive player at the time.
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      Denilson initially retired in 2010 after spells with Greek second-tier side Kavala and Vietnamese outfit Hai Phong.
      But he is now readying himself for a return to the pitch.
      He is not the first, and unlikely to be the last, to make a comeback.
      From a Manchester United legend to one of the Premier League’s all-time greatest goalies, SunSport gives you the definitive names of players who came out of retirement to relive their glory days.
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      PETR CECH
      The Chelsea legend was last seen pulling on the Arsenal keeper’s jersey in 2019, hanging up his gloves after four years at the Emirates at the end of the 2018-19 season.
      But it was with the Blues he was a cult hero, winning four Premier League titles in 11 years, which is why he returned to Stamford Bridge last year to take up a new role as technical and performance advisor.
      In 2020, Cech, now 39, was added to Chelsea’s Premier League squad as an emergency goalkeeper.
      Fortunately neither Edouard Mendy or Kepa Arrizabalaga got injured, preventing Cech from an on-pitch comeback.
      Petr Cech pictured working with Chelsea No1 Edouard MendyCredit: Getty
      PAUL SCHOLES
      Six months after he quit Old Trafford, Scholes decided he should pull on the Red Devils jersey once again in 2012.
      It was a no-brainer for the midfield dynamo, with Sir Alex Ferguson’s side having an injury crisis in the middle of the park having to play Phil Jones and Fabio Silva as a pair.
      Incredibly, no one knew he was returning when he was named on the bench for the Manchester derby, not even his team-mates who would’ve been shocked to see his shirt hanging up in the dressing room.
      United finished runners-up to their noisy neighbours that season, with Scholes playing 21 games.
      He returned the following year to help United win back the Premier League, and retired again – this time for good.
      Scholes retired for a second time after helping United win back the titleCredit: Getty
      JOHAN CRUYFF
      The late Dutch master returned to the game out of a sense of necessity.
      Cruyff was 31, but was skint after an investment that was supposed to set him up for life after football went wrong.
      “I had lost millions in pig-farming and that was the reason I decided to become a footballer again,” he revealed.
      He returned the same year he retired – 1978 – with the Los Angeles Aztecs for an admitted pay day.
      Cruyff later returned to Holland and was successful with both Ajax and Feyenoord, before finally giving up the game in 1984.
      Johan Cruyff signed for Los Angeles Aztecs due to financial problemsCredit: Getty
      ARJEN ROBBEN
      Another flying Dutch winger, former Chelsea star Robben was the most recent addition to the list before Denilson’s stunning announcement.
      And his reason was more sentimental.
      Robben signed on a free transfer for boyhood club FC Groningen in 2020 at the age of 36 after retiring following his incredible spell at Bayern Munich.
      But the romantic return was ruined by a long-term injury, restricting him to just six league outings, before he hung up his boots again for the second and last time in 2021.
      Robben has rejoined boyhood club FC GroningenCredit: Getty
      JENS LEHMANN
      After leaving the Gunners in 2008, the legendary German goalie was back for a second stint between the sticks for Arsenal in 2011 – a year after he put away his gloves.
      Initially he was signed as a back-up to Manuel Almunia, after Arsene Wenger’s team suffered with injuries.
      At 42, Lehmann was called upon for a game against Blackpool, after Almunia got injured in the warm-up.
      His team were victorious – winning 3-1. But you can bet the competitive Jens would’ve been furious he didn’t keep a clean sheet.
      Jens Lehmann appears for Arsenal against Blackpool age 42Credit: Action Images – Reuters
      ROBBIE ROGERS
      After he was released by Leeds at the age of just 25, Rogers wasn’t sure if his future belonged in the game.
      He then bravely came out as gay, revealing he felt like a coward for not doing it sooner.
      In 2013, Rogers joined MLS giants Los Angeles Galaxy to become the first openly gay American athlete to play in a major sport.
      Four years later, he announced his retirement because of persistent injuries.
      Robbie Rogers became the first openly gay American sports starCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      CARLOS ROA
      Still one of the most bizarre moments in football EVER.
      Roa was an outstanding goalkeeper for the Argentinian national team, as well as La Liga giants.
      He starred for the Argies in the 1998 World Cup, and reached the final of the Copa Del Rey and Cup Winners’ Cup, as well as won the Spanish Supercup.
      But he believed that the world was going to end in 2000, so wouldn’t renew his contract beyond then.
      When it didn’t, he came back with his tail between his legs because he still had a contract to fulfil.
      Carlos Roa returned to Mallorca with his family after quitting football thinking the world was going to endCredit: EPA
      STEPHEN CARR
      When the former Spurs full-back was released by Newcastle in 2008, he had had enough of chasing wingers up and down the park.
      With no takers wanting him as a free agent, Carr decided to call it a day.
      A year later, he returned to the Premier League with Birmingham City.
      In 2011, he captained the side to a famous League Cup final victory over Arsenal.
      He hung up his boots in 2013 to begin his coaching career.
      Stephen Carr celebrates winning the League Cup against ArsenalCredit: Jamie McPhilimey – The Sun
      ROGER MILLA
      The Cameroon legend is best remembered for his star turn at the 1990 World Cup, where he couldn’t stop scoring, not to mention that brilliant dance celebration at the corner flag for every goal.
      However, a year before Milla had decided he wasn’t fit for purpose and moved to the Indian Ocean island of Reunion.
      It wasn’t until Cameroon’s president Paul Biya pleaded with him to return that he came back at 38.
      He then returned four years later to become the oldest player to appear at the World Cup, a record which was beaten by Faryd Mondragon.
      Roger Milla was a star at Italia ’90Credit: Bongarts – Getty
      LANDON DONOVAN
      Recognised as the greatest player to ever play for the States, Donovan had initially left the LA Galaxy in 2014 as a champion.
      But in 2016, he was asked to return to MLS action because of an injury crisis by the Galaxy.
      Ironically enough, Donovan was working as a pundit on his former club’s game where they suffered three injuries during the match.
      However, he couldn’t repeat his past success and the club ended up without a trophy and Donovan retired again.
      Landon Donovan returned to LA Galaxy in 2016 after an injury crisisCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      MARC OVERMARS
      Although he had lost that electric pace that made him such a threat in the past, Overmars wasn’t going to give up the ghost of playing.
      After a brilliant career at Ajax, Arsenal and Barcelona, he retired in 2004.
      Then he starred in a testimonial for Jaap Stam some four years later, and was offered a route back into football.
      He initially declined, believing his best days were past him.
      However, he had a a change of heart when Go Ahead Eagles, his first ever club, offered him a deal.
      He played 24 games in one season before finally retiring for good.
      Four years after retiring Overmars came back with Go Ahead EaglesCredit: Rex Features More

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      in Soccer

      The rise and fall of Paulo Dybala from Lionel Messi’s successor and serial Serie A champion to Tottenham transfer target

      by

      PAULO DYBALA was once heralded as the next Lionel Messi.Unfortunately for him, Messi had no intention of abdicating his crown as the king of Argentine football any time soon.
      Paulo Dybala was supposed to be the ‘next Lionel Messi’Credit: AFP or licensors
      His career has delivered trophies in Italy but is largely underwhelmingCredit: Getty
      And now a stumbling career will see Dybala released by Juventus as a free agent this summer – with the likes of Tottenham and Manchester United the frontrunners to land him.
      Yes, the 28-year-old has still enjoyed a largely successful career in Italy with five Serie A titles, four Coppa Italias and a Champions League final in seven seasons with Juventus.
      But it certainly has fallen well short of the heights many expected – and Dybala hoped – it would hit.
      Born in Laguna Larga in Cordoba, Argentina’s second city, Dybala’s surname links back to his grandfather Boleslaw Dybala, a Pole who fled his homeland during World War II and settled in South America.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-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-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BAL IN PLAY .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;}Man Utd and Tottenham on RED ALERT as Juventus confirm Dybala WILL leave
      But it was the side of his mother he followed by ending up in Italy – with his great-grandmother from Naples.
      He earned a move to Palermo after nine years with Instituto in his home city.
      Dybala joined the club’s academy aged ten in 2003 and made his professional debut for the first team at 17.
      His record-breaking prowess – as the youngest goalscorer, playing 38 consecutive league games, hitting two hat-tricks in the same season AND scoring in six straight matches – quickly earned him plenty of attention in Argentina.
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      His nickname was ‘La Joya’ – ‘The Jewel’ – and he was soon tipped as his country’s next big shining diamond, certain to follow in the footsteps of Messi and Sergio Aguero.
      So it was little surprise he made the £7million transfer to Europe still aged just 18, using his Italian ancestry to facilitate the deal and ready to show the rest of the world his talent.
      Three seasons with Palermo saw 21 goals in 93 appearances, a relegation, a promotion and a spot in Don Balon’s top 100 most promising young footballers.
      Juve came calling for an initial £26m in 2015 and, after previously turning down youth call-ups, he made his senior Argentina debut in October.
      Dybala started out as a left-winger with Instituto but his versatility saw him operate across the attacking positions – a perfect utility man but that meant he was not the No1 in any one given role.
      Arguably his best position is as a centre-forward or supporting the attack off the right flank but his stature and strengths meant Argentina’s managers – or Barcelona – rarely wanted both him and Messi in the side.
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      Both players have claimed it is ‘difficult’ to play alongside each other or build an on-pitch partnership because they want to operate in the same areas of the pitch – and Dybala was criticised for his comments before Messi backed him up.
      That has seen him become somewhat of a maligned figure in Argentine football with just two goals in 32 caps – instead, the likes of Lautaro Martinez, Angel Correa and now Julian Alvarez are taking centre stage.
      The trio, as well as Messi, Aguero and Angel Di Maria, were all part of the successful 2021 Copa America squad as Dybala watched his compatriots lift the trophy from home.
      At club level, Dybala enjoyed his best season in 2017-18 with 26 goals in 43 games.
      But the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo that summer saw him shifted away from his productive centre-forward role.
      Gonzalo Higuain’s return, then Alvaro Morata, Federico Chiesa and Dusan Vlahovic all arriving – coupled with loss of form and injuries – has seen his goals dry up somewhat with ten, 17, five and 13 this term going into the March international break.
      Ironically Dybala is Juventus’ top scorer this season but, even so, his spell at the Old Lady is fizzling out to a disappointing end.
      Paulo’s position was no longer at the centre of the projectJuventus CEO Maurizio Arrivabene
      The club are well off the pace in Serie A and were dumped out of the Champions League in humiliating fashion by Villarreal – although they could win yet another Coppa Italia.
      After more injury woes and a reported training group bust-up with boss Max Allegri, Juventus CEO Maurizio Arrivabene said: “The most important change is that Juventus have not renewed Paulo Dybala’s contract.
      “With the purchases made in January, with the arrival of Vlahovic, Paulo’s position was no longer at the centre of the project.
      “The decision is made. Today’s meeting was friendly, clear and respectful.”
      A free transfer to Tottenham appears the most likely next step as things stand – three years on from a last-minute collapse on a £65m switch to North London – while United may consider an offer to bolster their under-performing attack.
      Inter Milan, Atletico Madrid, PSG and even Arsenal are also outside bets.
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      Regardless of where he ends up, though, Dybala must knuckle down and accept this is the direction his career that promised so much has taken.
      Then it will be time to rediscover his sparkling form and live up to his nickname once again.
      Dybala earned a move to Palermo after shining for InstitutoCredit: Getty
      Dybala celebrated the Coppa Italia win in 2021 but was left out of the Copa America squadCredit: Reuters
      Juventus are letting Dybala go as they plan to build the attack around Dusan VlahovicCredit: Alamy More

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      Footballers amazing body transformations, like Man Utd’s Ronaldo building mass muscle to Hazard shifting extra weight

      by

      FOOTBALLERS will do anything to get an edge over their opponents.And that means more work in the gym, sculpting their perfect bodies and lifting heavy weights to gain extra muscle.
      Cristiano Ronaldo is sculpted like an AdonisCredit: AFP or licensors
      But these stars didn’t always look like body builders.
      In fact, these athletes have enjoyed a remarkable body transformation over the years, even when they could not train normally last year during the coronavirus lockdown.
      EDEN HAZARD
      When former Chelsea star Hazard moved to Real Madrid in a deal worth £130million, Los Blancos were delighted.
      But they wouldn’t have been happy when he turned up to training seven kilograms overweight.
      Even fans pointed out he looked chunky when he reported for preseason games.
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      However, during the coronavirus lockdown Hazard took his fitness very seriously.
      “It’s complicated for me. I’m trying not to eat a lot,” he told RTBF.
      “I’m trying not to go into the pantry to eat a lot of buns, but it’s not easy.”
      Unfortunately for the Belgian he has still suffered to hit top form since for Madrid and has been linked with a move to Juventus.
      When Eden Hazard arrived at Real Madrid he was seven kilograms overweightCredit: Twitter @realmadrid
      CRISTIANO RONALDO
      As a youngster, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner was often called too skinny by his coaches.
      But through the years, Ronaldo went from lanky winger to powerhouse forward thanks to a strict exercise regime.
      “I put it in my mind that my body can improve,” Ronaldo said.
      “With dedication and hard work in the gym I improved a lot on that – at the end of the day it’s down to the person’s mindset.”
      A Pilates-based routine that focuses on resistance work to strengthen his core is also key to his success – reportedly giving the Portuguese star the body of a 23-year-old.
      Now Manchester United will be hoping to reap the rewards after they forked out to bring him back to Old Trafford from Juventus at the age of 36.
      Ronaldo used to be called too skinny when he was an up and coming youngsterCredit: AFP
      Thanks to a strict diet and rigorous exercise regime Ronaldo has transformed his bodyCredit: Getty – Contributor
      MARCUS RASHFORD
      When Rashford emerged on the scene in 2017 as a fresh-faced 19-year-old, his body was still developing.
      But having Ronaldo as a role model at the club when he was a youngster was a big help.
      The striker watched his now teammate in training closely, adding strength and conditioning work to the technical training he does at Carrington, which has given him a more muscular physique today.
      When Marcus Rashford first emerged on the scene in 2017 he was skin and boneCredit: Reuters
      Today, with added strength and conditioning training Rashford has bulked upCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI
      The Bayern Munich striker has been sensational for the Bavarian giants, and it’s all down to his nutritionist wife Anna.
      Through his diet, as well as rigorous training regime with the Bundesliga side, he is now the perfect specimen.
      “We changed our diet step by step, first cutting out sweets and then milk,” Lewandowski explained.
      “Cows’ milk and soya milk isn’t good for me. Almond milk and rice milk is OK. I don’t really drink alcohol, either. Maybe wine but only sometimes.”
      When he started his career at Lech Poznan Lewandowski was skinnyCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Lewandowski now flashes killer abs thanks to a diet enforced by his nutritionist wife AnnaCredit: Instagram @_rl9
      ADAMA TRAORE
      A devastating blend of pace and power, Traore’s game has come on leaps and bounds.
      And social media blew up when snaps of the Spain winger emerged showing off a raging bicep that would’ve put any Hollywood action hero to shame.
      But despite his rippling muscles, Traore insists he doesn’t do any weight training.
      “My training? I don’t do weights,” he told La Sexta.
      “It’s hard to believe, but I don’t do weights.
      “It’s genetic. I exercise, but I gain mass very quickly.”
      Spanish winger Adama Traore was a slight winger playing for Spain’s U16 teamCredit: Getty – Contributor
      At Wolves, Traore showed off his hench physiqueCredit: Getty – Contributor
      ADEBAYO AKINFENWA
      You don’t get the nickname ‘The Beast” for nothing, as well as a 98 strength rating in FIFA 20.
      Football’s strongest man Akinfenwa, 39, ruffles defenders feathers playing for Wycombe Wanderers in League One.
      To fuel his weights sessions, the striker eats like a beast too, although his weight does go up and down.
      “Breakfast is Weetabix with honey,” he told the Daily Mail.
      “At training there will be some kind of chicken. Our chef personally does chicken for me and that makes me very happy.
      “Then a shake in the afternoon. For dinner, again it’s probably chicken, potato and coleslaw. My partner is half-Nigerian, half-Caribbean so it may be the curry goat, rice and potato. It’s the carbs I need to eat.
      “I throw in the odd Nando’s. Quarter-chicken, medium breast, chips, corn on the cob and five wings. I don’t deviate.”
      Adebayo Akinfenwa had a smaller frame during his time at NorthamptonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Akinfenwa is now nicknamed The Beast because of his enormous size
      HULK
      The aptly named Brazilian striker has always been admired for his physical stature.
      Built like a truck, Hulk is currently terrorising defenders back in Brazil for Atlético Mineiro, who he led to the Brazilian title.
      But there was a time when the former Porto star looked a little overweight, rather than chiselled.
      He has toned up now, and looks fitter than his 35-years suggest.
      At Porto Hulk was a little rounder and squarerCredit: AFP – Getty
      Now plying his trade back in Brazil, Hulk is leaner, more muscular and fit as a fiddle
      SERGIO RAMOS
      The Real Madrid legend’s Instagram account is littered with videos of high-intensity workout videos.
      When he was at Sevilla, he was just a beanpole of a defender. Now, he’s the real deal.
      “My training routines at home are usually focused on functional and isometric exercises, always ending with some cardio work,” the  Paris Saint-Germain signing revealed.
      And for Sergio, a healthy breakfast is the perfect to start the day.
      He revealed: “I usually take a coffee, some whole-grain bread with protein like turkey breast or a poached egg, and a piece of fruit.”
      When he began his career at Sevilla, Ramos was a beanpole of a defenderCredit: EPA
      Ramos is now one of the most chiselled footballers around
      GEORGE ELOKOBI
      There’s no doubt about it, Elokobi is hench.
      The former Wolves star, now playing for National League side Maidstone United, was always a crowd favourite because of his size.
      At only 5ft 9inches, he isn’t the tallest. But he earned the nickname of ‘The Body’ at Molineux because he was pure muscle.
      The defender even stripped down to his smalls on the catwalk during a charity fashion show at the club.
      Former Wolves star George Elokobi was nicknamed ‘The Body’
      Elokobi even stripped down to his smalls to show off his six-pack for a charity fashion showCredit: Matthew Ashton
      MARIO BALOTELLI
      The fiery former Manchester City striker was always tall and lean.
      But after celebrating scoring for Italy against Germany in Euro 2012, he was keen to show off a ripped torso as he flexed his muscles shirtless.
      However, the normally fit Balotelli was anything but in 2018 when he returned to training for Nice reportedly two stone overweight when a move to Marseille collapsed.
      He soon dropped half a stone and was back to normal and is now playing for Turkish outfit Adana Demirspor.
      When Mauro Balotelli first emerged on the scene he was leanerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      At Euro 2012 Balotelli flexes his muscles after scoring against GermanyCredit: Corbis – Getty
      ALEXIS SANCHEZ
      The Inter Milan striker takes his training very seriously.
      Former Manchester United star Sanchez enjoys working out alone, and shared a video online strutting his stuff at their Carrington training ground to the famous Rocky theme ‘Eye of the Tiger’ in 2019.
      Sanchez has also been seen in the past enjoying sprint drills on the beach. After all, even in pre-season you can’t down tools in the summer.
      Standing at 5ft 6in, the former Gunner knows he needs strength as an attribute for his game to thrive. And he looks the business after rediscovering his form in Italy.
      Alexis Sanchez has worked hard on building his muscle massCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Sanchez is happy to share his extra workouts on InstagramCredit: Instagram @alexis_officia1 More