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      ‘Who’s bigger than Liverpool?’ – Carragher explains why fans are so fuming at Alexander-Arnold’s Real Madrid transfer

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      JAMIE CARRAGHER has revealed why he thinks Liverpool fans have been left upset by Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Anfield exit.Alexander-Arnold announced today that he will leave boyhood club Liverpool after 20 years on the expiration of his current deal this summer.Jamie Carragher has revealed why Liverpool fans have been left fuming with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool exitCredit: GettyAlexander-Arnold has today revealed that he is leaving Liverpool at the end of the seasonCredit: RexThe right-back will join Real Madrid this summerCredit: GettyThe 26-year-old right-back released an emotional video in which he explained he is ready to find a new challenge, but admitted he knows “people won’t be happy”.And he has already been on receiving end of significant backlash, with fan videos showing his Liverpool shirt being set on fire and abuse directed at him online immediately after his announcement.Nothing is official yet, but Alexander-Arnold appears to be on the brink of penning a six-year contract with Real Madrid worth around £240,000-per-week.It’s that particular move that Carragher thinks has left a sour taste in the mouth of the Anfield faithful – suggesting that Madrid are seen as a direct rival to the Reds.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn his Telegraph column, Carragher wrote: “Liverpool are in the business of winning more Premier League and Champions League titles. Anything which undermines that is a threat.”You may not agree, or believe that competitive attitude to the loss of a star player is justified, but it is what makes Liverpool the successful club it is, and it is no different than what you would expect at Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona or Manchester United.”By leaving Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold is making it harder for his own club to win its 21st league title and seventh European Cup. That is bound to stir emotions.”Carragher also harked back to his own experience of being a Liverpool player, recalling the time he was asked by Geoff Shreeves if he should think about joining a “bigger” club than the Merseyside outfit.Most read in FootballTrent Alexander-Arnold’s emotional goodbyeHere’s a look at Alexander-Arnold’s goodbye statement in full…After 20 years at Liverpool Football Club, now is the time for me to confirm that I will be leaving at the end of the season.This is easily the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my life.I know many of you have wondered why or been frustrated that I haven’t spoken about this yet, but it was always my intention to keep my full focus on the team’s best interests, which was securing No.20.This club has been my whole life – my whole world – for 20 years. From the Academy right through until now, the support and love I have felt from everyone inside and outside of the club will stay with me forever. I will forever be in debt to you all.But, I have never known anything else and this decision is about experiencing a new challenge, taking myself out of my comfort zone and pushing myself both professionally and personally.I’ve given my all every single day I’ve been at this club, and I hope you feel like I’ve given back to you during my time here.From the bottom of my heart, I thank everybody – my coaches, my managers, my teammates, the staff and our incredible supporters – for the last 20 years.I’ve been blessed enough to live out my dreams here and I will never, ever take for granted the special moments I’ve been fortunate enough to have lived through with you all. My love for this club will never die.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSCarragher recalled simply replying: “Who’s bigger than Liverpool?”The retired centre-back also claimed that fans feel that an academy player like Alexander-Arnold jumping ship can come across as though he is looking for “something bigger or better”. Inside raucous Liverpool dressing room as Trent Alexander-Arnold leads celebrations and Darwin Nunez smokes a cigarThat is an idea that Alexander-Arnold refuted himself during his goodbye video, saying: “I think the decision for me is personal. To change my environment, to challenge myself elsewhere.”It’s not about wanting to find something better, it’s about me and my personal journey as a player and I feel like now is the best time for me to go and experience that.”People won’t be happy with the decision, but it’s something I feel that I need to do with my career”.Carragher even compared the exit to if Ryan Giggs or Paul Scholes had left Manchester United in their pomp, or even John Terry parting ways with Chelsea and Bukayo Saka turning his back on Arsenal.However, he conceded that Alexander-Arnold will always be regarded as a Liverpool legend, citing his iconic quick corner against Barcelona in 2019 as a moment that will go down in history at the club.The England international also helped Liverpool win two Premier League titles, two League Cups, one FA Cup and the Champions League during his tenure at the club.The Athletic report Alexander-Arnold informed manager Arne Slot of his decision to leave the club in a face-to-face meeting at the club’s Kirkby training complex in March after the ankle injury he sustained against Paris Saint-Germain in the last 16 of the Champions League.Slot is said to have expressed his disappointment but respected the decision, telling him: “You’re a huge part of this team and let’s end it on a high together.”Alexander-Arnold then replied: “My mindset and commitment won’t change. I’ll continue to give everything for this club until the final day.”Now the football community will wait with bated breath to see what kind of reception Alexander-Arnold gets from the Kop when the champions host Arsenal on Sunday at Anfield.Even the official club statement from Liverpool appeared to read as blunt, pointing at the fact that the academy graduate had informed them of his decision – not the other way round.It read: “Trent Alexander-Arnold has informed Liverpool FC of his intention to leave the club this summer upon the expiry of his current contract.Read More on The Sun”Trent will depart with our gratitude and appreciation for his contribution during a sustained period of success.”Local lad Alexander-Arnold has been with The Reds since he was just six years old – becoming one of their greatest ever academy graduates and making over 350 appearances since his debut in 2016, aged 18.Alexander-Arnold won the Champions League with LiverpoolCredit: PA:Press AssociationWhat happened to the Englishmen who joined Real Madrid?TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD looks set to join Real Madrid this summer and will join an exclusive club to pull on the famous white jersey.So had did those who came before him get on?LAURIE CUNNINGHAM (1979-1984)Real Madrid splashed out £950,000 to sign Cunningham from West Brom in 1979.As one of the “Three Degrees” alongside Cyrille Regis and Brendon Batson, Cunningham had left an unforgettable mark at the Hawthorns.The left winger became an instant hit in the Spanish capital, scoring twice on his debut.Cunningham helped his side to the LaLiga title in 1980, and played in the European Cup final against Liverpool the following year.Following a loan spell with Manchester United, Cunningham moved to Marseille in 1984.Having played for Leicester, Charleroi and Wimbledon, Cunningham returned to Madrid with Rayo Vallecano in 1988.The following year he tragically died in a car crash in the city aged just 33.STEVE MCMANAMAN (1999-2003)Like Alexander-Arnold is set to, McManaman left boyhood club Liverpool for the bright lights of Madrid in 1999.A silky winger, McManaman proved to be a hit in Madrid.The Bernabeu crowd immediately took to their new English hero, with his floppy hair and nonchalant flair.McManaman helped Real win six trophies in four years, and scored his side’s second goal in their victorious 2000 Champions League final.He went on to leave Madrid in 2003, spending the final two years of his career with Manchester City.After hanging up his boots, McManaman worked as a pundit for Setanta Sports, BT Sport and ESPN.Now 53, he can regularly be seen on TNT Sports’ football coverage, especially when Liverpool or Real Madrid are playing.DAVID BECKHAM (2003-2007)In 2003, Real Madrid made Manchester United superstar Beckham their latest Galactico.Golden Balls joined a squad boasting the likes of Ronaldo, Raul, Zinedine Zidane and Roberto Carlos in the Spanish capital.Despite his love for high-end fashion and the celebrity lifestyle, Beckham became much beloved in Spain for his incredible work rate, professionalism and of course, quality.Despite boasting a star-studded squad, the fabled La Decima – a tenth Champions League triumph – eluded Real Madrid during his four-year stint.He didn’t leave empty-handed, however, winning the LaLiga title in 2007 before leaving for LA Galaxy.Since Beckham hung up his boots in 2013 he has continued to have several endorsement deals; including the likes of Adidas, Armani, Pepsi and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.Beckham, 49, also owns MLS side Inter Miami, and played a big role in their groundbreaking deal for Lionel Messi in 2023.MICHAEL OWEN (2004-2005)Like McManaman before him, Owen quit Liverpool for Real Madrid.But the former Ballon d’Or winner endured a frustrating season at the Bernabeu, finding himself stuck behind Ronaldo and Raul.Twelve months on from Owen’s £8million switch, Real Madrid doubled their money by flogging him to Newcastle.Owen then spent three years with Liverpool’s rivals Man Utd, before one final year at Stoke.Immediately after hanging up his boots, Owen signed up to be BT Sport’s primary co-commentator upon the channel’s launch.In addition to his punditry work, the former striker has enjoyed several other ventures.Owen, 45, has his own clothing range with Peacocks, while he also appeared on The Masked Singer.JONATHAN WOODGATE (2004-2007)Woodgate endured one of the most infamous debuts of all time after switching Newcastle for Real Madrid in 2004.The luckless defender went through injury hell following the £13.4m transfer, having to wait 17 months before playing his first game.Just 25 minutes in, the England international headed into his own net. Things then got even worse when he was sent off just after the hour mark.Woodgate played just 14 times that season, before a loan move to Middlesbrough effectively ended his Real Madrid career.After signing permanently for Boro, Woody earned a move to Tottenham in January 2008. He won the League Cup barely a month later, and remains the last Spurs player to score a winning goal in a cup final.Following spells with Stoke and back at Middlesbrough, Woodgate retired in 2016.He has since gone into coaching, managing Boro and Bournemouth.Woodgate, 45, returned to Middlesbrough once again in 2022, where he works as a first team coach under Michael Carrick.JUDE BELLINGHAM (2023-present)England superstar Bellingham sealed a blockbuster £115m transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid in the summer of 2023.The move has been a resounding success, with the midfielder immediately excelling in Spain.Bellingham scored on his debut, and went on net five times in his first four LaLiga matches.The image of the 21-year-old with his arms outstretched has quickly become an iconic one.Birmingham’s finest has already won LaLiga and the Champions League during his young career.And with Alexander-Arnold soon to be alongside him, Bellingham will feel that he can add plenty more to his already impressive trophy tally. 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      Former Premier League captain and club cult hero, 36, wakes up unemployed as one of TEN players released

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      A FORMER Premier League captain has been left unemployed after his EFL club released ten players.Huddersfield finished the 2024-25 season tenth in League One after a horror run saw them drop out of play-off contention.Jonathan Hogg has been left unemployed after his release by HuddersfieldCredit: RexThe midfielder captained the Terriers in the Premier LeagueCredit: AFP or licensorsAnd less than 48 hours after the end of the campaign, the Terriers announced their retained list.But, crucially, club cult hero Jonathan Hogg has been let go after 12 years with Huddersfield. Hogg, 36, captained the Yorkshire club during their stint in the Premier League.The news of his departure at the end of his contract had already been confirmed.READ MORE ON EFLThat allowed him to bid farewell to his adoring Huddersfield supporters after the final game of the EFL season at home to Leyton Orient on Saturday. The club also let a further nine first-team stars go as their deals expired while goalkeeper Chris Maxwell retired. Huddersfield said: “As previously disclosed, club captain and legend Jonathan Hogg will wave goodbye to the club this summer following 12 distinguished years in blue and white. “Goalkeeper Chris Maxwell has also departed the club following his recent retirement.Most read in EFLCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Now at the conclusion of their contracts, we will also part ways with nine other players with senior appearances for the club across our First Team and B Team, with Danny Ward, Tom Lees, Matty Pearson, Ollie Turton, Josh Ruffels, Josh Koroma, Scott High, Loick Ayina and Conor Falls all set to depart with our sincere thanks for their service, and best wishes for the future.”Having unfortunately had his season cut short by an ACL injury, Ward will have the opportunity to continue his rehabilitation with the club until he is fit to move elsewhere.How Arsenal can beat PSG and reach the Champions League final “Conducting a full review of our footballing operations following the 2024/25 campaign, the club retains a desire to refresh the complexion of our First Team squad having fallen short of our targets this season. “Looking to head into the 2025/26 season reinvigorated, decisions have been made to allow full flexibility and freedom to any incoming Head Coach.”Huddersfield sacked manager Michael Duff in March after a run of four defeats in five league matches as the Terriers dropped out of the play-off places. Jon Worthington took interim charge for the remainder of the season to replace Duff, who came in after relegation from the Championship last May. More

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      in Motorsport

      Lewis Hamilton fumes ‘have a tea break while you’re at it’ at Ferrari staff and refuses to apologise in Miami GP bust-up

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      LEWIS HAMILTON has refused to apologise to his Ferrari bosses after his heated outburst on the team radio during the Formula One Miami Grand Prix.Hamilton enjoyed an impressive Saturday by claiming a podium in the Sprint Race with a superb strategy call to change tyres.Lewis Hamilton refused to apologise for his heated rant down the Ferrari team radioCredit: RexHe was frustrated at being told not to pass team-mate Charles Leclerc despite running on a faster tyreCredit: RexBut Sunday saw him finish P8 in another frustrating feature race.The Brit is yet to finish above P5 for the Scuderia in a Sunday race, and was barely able to hold back his anger over the team radio as he blasted the team tactics during the race.The 40-year-old lost his rag after being told to hold position behind Charles Leclerc despite running on the quicker medium compound tyre as he wanted to catch Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli.He blasted down the team radio to engineer Riccardo Adami: “You want me to sit here the whole race?” with Adami then replying: “I’ll come back to you. Wanna keep the DRS to Charles.”READ MORE IN F1Hamilton added: “This is not good team work, that’s all I’m going to say…”In China I got out of the way when you were on a different strategy… Have a tea break while you’re at it! Come on.”Hamilton failed to catch Antonelli on his quicker but less durable tyres and was asked to swap back with Leclerc towards the end of the race as his pace faded away.After swapping positions he was then informed Williams’ driver Carlos Sainz – who he replaced at Ferrari this season – was just 1.5 seconds behind, to which Hamilton sarcastically replied: “You want me to let him past as well?”Most read in MotorsportBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKSainz attempted a late lunge on Hamilton at the end of the final lap, seeing the two drivers bang wheels into the penultimate corner before Hamilton was able to hang on to his spot.Speaking to Sky Sports after the race, Hamilton revealed he had already spoke to Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur about the situation, but said he would not apologise for “being a fighter”.Awkward moment Lewis Hamilton appears to snub FIA president’s hug as drivers left at war with F1 governing body He said: “Fred came to my room. I just put my hand on his shoulder and said – ‘Dude, calm down. Don’t be so sensitive. I could have said way worse things on the radio.'”You hear some of the things other people have said in the past. Some of it was sarcasm. You’ve got to understand, we’re under a huge amount of pressure in the cars.“You’re never going to get the most peaceful messages come through in the heat of battle. “I don’t know what you’re going to write, or whether I was disrespectful of whatever. I honestly don’t feel I was. I was just like – ‘Come on guys, I want to win.’ I’ve still got that fire in my belly.“I could feel a bit of it coming out there. And I’m not going to apologise for being a fighter. I’m not going to apologise for still wanting it.”Ferrari are currently running as the fourth-quickest team in F1, an objective failure considering their supremely talented driver line-up.They missed out on the Constructors Championship title last season to McLaren by just 14 points, but already sit 152 points behind them this year.Instead, McLaren’s closest rivals are Mercedes, who have been remarkably consistent with George Russell – who scored his fourth podium of the season – and Antonelli. The Italian team are also running behind Red Bull, where new dad Max Verstappen has picked up 99 of the teams 105 points this season.Read More on The SunOscar Piastri became the first McLaren driver since Mika Hakkinen in 1998 to win three races in a row as team-mate Lando Norris finished second in Miami.The next F1 weekend will commence at the iconic Imola circuit on May 18 to kick-start the second triple-header of the season. More

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      in Motorsport

      F1 superfan Amanda Borges da Silva found dead at Tokyo hotel after horror blaze just hours before her flight home

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      A FORMULA 1 fan was found dead at her hotel in Tokyo – tragically just hours before she was due to fly back home.Amanda Borges da Silva, 30, who had travelled from Brazil to Japan to watch the Grand Prix was found dead after a fire was extinguished at the building.Amanda Borges da Silva was travelling to Japan to watch the Grand PrixCredit: NewsflashShe was tragically found dead in her hotelA man has been arrested in connection with the fire in Amanda’s buildingHer friends paid tribute to the Formula One fanCredit: NewsflashHer friend James Fernandes told Brazilian media that she was about to fly back from Japan to Brazil on Thursday.He said: “She was located near Narita airport in Tokyo, it was in the early hours of yesterday morning. Her flight was on Thursday. She had been out of Brazil since March.”Amanda, a researcher and avid Formula One fan, had travelled to Japan to watch the GP on April 6 – won by Max Verstappen.Japanese media reported that she had been in a building that had caught fire and that authorities have arrested a Sri Lankan man who is thought to have left the premises without extinguishing the fire.Read more on F1The cause of her death remains unclear.Amanda reportedly lived in Sao Paulo and had a Bachelor’s degree in literature, along with a Master’s degree in linguistics.She shared her love for Formula One with her followers on social media. Following news of her death, one of her followers wrote: “Thank you for all the reels, memes and all the chats, especially those about Formula One, that we talked about. Most read in Motorsport”I promise to never forget you, my dear friend. Watch over us from wherever you are.”Her family have reportedly asked the Brazilian authorities for assistance in repatriating her body.It comes after Max Verstappen became the first driver in history to win four straight races at Suzuka.The Red Bull superstar beat McLaren pair Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, who finished second and third, respectively.Meanwhile, at the Formula One Miami Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton has refused to apologise to his Ferrari bosses after his heated outburst on the team radio.The 40-year-old lost his cool after being told to hold position behind Charles Leclerc despite running on the quicker medium compound tyre as he wanted to catch Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli.He blasted down the team radio to engineer Riccardo Adami: “You want me to sit here the whole race?” with Adami then replying: “I’ll come back to you. Wanna keep the DRS to Charles.”Hamilton added: “This is not good team work, that’s all I’m going to say…”In China I got out of the way when you were on a different strategy… Have a tea break while you’re at it! Come on.”It is unclear if she died of smoke inhalation or was burned to deathCredit: NewsflashAmanda would often share her love of F1 with her social media followersCredit: NewsflashHer death is being investigatedCredit: Newsflash More

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      Harry Kane puffs on cigar as Bayern champions drink champagne and dance to Michael Jackson into early hours of morning

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      HARRY KANE finally broke his trophy duck and he made sure to celebrate in style.The Bayern Munich striker puffed on a cigar, sipped champagne and stayed up to the early hours dancing with his team-mates after the Bavarians were crowned Bundesliga champions.Harry Kane celebrated late into the night with his Bayern Munich teammatesCredit: https://www.instagram.com/konradlaimer/?hl=enA party filled with champagne and cigars went on until the early hoursCredit: https://www.instagram.com/konradlaimer/?hl=enKane, Joshua Kimmich and Eric Dier puffed on cigars after the title was wrapped upCredit: XKimmich, Kane, Serge Gnabry and Dier sprayed champagne magnums at the partyCredit: https://www.instagram.com/harrykane/A 2-2 draw between title rivals Bayer Leverkusen and European battlers Freiburg meant that Bayern were made champions with two games left to play.And players and staff gathered together at a classy restaurant to watch Leverkusen hand them the title on TV, seeing their celebrations descend into a night of chaos on the full-time whistle.German outlet Bild described the ensuing party as a “lavish celebration”, revealing that Kane spent EIGHT HOURS partying – finally leaving at 1:34am.Pictures from the night showed champagne flowing, cigars out and plenty of partying.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLKane could be seen enjoying the night alongside England and former Spurs team-mate Eric Dier – with the pair sharing an emotional embrace on the whistle.While Serge Gnabry, Konrad Laimer and Joshua Kimmich were among the other players posing for celebratory pictures.Everyone seemed to have their dancing shoes on too, with reports of late-night dancing to Michael Jackson.While the players sang along to the Spice Girls, Mr Brightside by The Killers, We Are The Champions by Queen as well as a bit of Sweet Caroline.Most read in FootballKane was soaked with champagne in one clipCredit: https://www.instagram.com/harrykane/He shared an emotional hug with Eric Dier on the full-time whistleCredit: XDier shared a photo of him enjoying a cigarCredit: Instagram @ericdier15CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSKane has tasted plenty of heartbreak leading up to his first career trophy, after he lost two League Cup finals and a Champions League final while at Tottenham.While he has also lost two European Championship finals for England in 2021 and 2024. Harry Kane puffs on cigar as Bayern champions drink champagne and dance to Michael Jackson in early hours of morningHe’s been a huge part of Bayern’s title success under boss Vincent Kompany, who was also part of the celebrations, scoring 24 goals and registering nine assists in 29 Bundesliga games this season.Kane took to Instagram to pass a message on to the fans after a long night of partying.In a video, he said: “What a night last night. What a celebration with the players, with the staff.”I’m sure everyone is feeling it a little bit this morning, but we’re here and I feel amazing.”It’s been a long time coming. Obviously a lot of hard work, a lot of dedication. “It just feels sweet to win the title and the first one of my career. So, I appreciate all the support as always – it never goes unnoticed.”I can’t wait to enjoy these next couple of weeks. I can’t wait to be at the Allianz on Saturday and celebrate in front of the fans and then, as always, we look forward to the next one.”Kane missed out on the Champions League when he played for TottenhamCredit: GettyHe suffered trophy agony with England tooCredit: GettyKane has had a superb campaignCredit: GettyBayern Munich made a mock up of Kane sipping tea with the Bundesliga trophy by his sideCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/DJPYxLFoIgW/ More

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      ‘It was meant to be’ – Fans convinced Alexander-Arnold was destined for Real Madrid transfer from first ever Insta post

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      LIVERPOOL’S departing star Trent Alexander-Arnold’s first ever Instagram post involved Real Madrid… 11 years before his impending move to the Santiago Bernabeu.Alexander-Arnold, 26, officially announced he will be leaving Anfield when his contract expires in an emotional statement on Monday.Trent Alexander-Arnold announced he is leaving Liverpool amid interest from Real MadridAlexander-Arnold’s first ever Instagram post was about RealFans believe it’s Alexander-Arnold’s destiny to play for RealHe is now set to join Real Madrid on a free transfer following the Spaniards’ very public pursuit this season.And fans have spotted a major clue that he always dreamed of turning out for Los Blancos on his social media channels.That’s because in his first-ever Instagram post, Alexander-Arnold uploaded a training snap from the Bernabeu with the Liverpool squad from the 2014-15 season.The Merseysiders were visiting Real for a Champions League clash in the group stage and the right-back was included in Brendan Rodgers’ side on a supporting capacity at the age of 16.Read More on FootballThe defender uploaded a photo showing him and then team-mates Rickie Lambert and Raheem Sterling practising on the pitch he may soon call home.Alexander-Arnold included the following caption: “Training at the Bernabeu.”And now some fans insist it was written in the stars as they revisited the pic and stormed social media.One fan tweeted: “It was meant to be.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnother commented: “Destined to be a Madridista.”A third wrote: “Born to play for Real Madrid.”Inside raucous Liverpool dressing room as Trent Alexander-Arnold leads celebrations and Darwin Nunez smokes a cigarWhat happened to the Englishmen who joined Real Madrid?TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD looks set to join Real Madrid this summer and will join an exclusive club to pull on the famous white jersey.So had did those who came before him get on?LAURIE CUNNINGHAM (1979-1984)Real Madrid splashed out £950,000 to sign Cunningham from West Brom in 1979.As one of the “Three Degrees” alongside Cyrille Regis and Brendon Batson, Cunningham had left an unforgettable mark at the Hawthorns.The left winger became an instant hit in the Spanish capital, scoring twice on his debut.Cunningham helped his side to the LaLiga title in 1980, and played in the European Cup final against Liverpool the following year.Following a loan spell with Manchester United, Cunningham moved to Marseille in 1984.Having played for Leicester, Charleroi and Wimbledon, Cunningham returned to Madrid with Rayo Vallecano in 1988.The following year he tragically died in a car crash in the city aged just 33.STEVE MCMANAMAN (1999-2003)Like Alexander-Arnold is set to, McManaman left boyhood club Liverpool for the bright lights of Madrid in 1999.A silky winger, McManaman proved to be a hit in Madrid.The Bernabeu crowd immediately took to their new English hero, with his floppy hair and nonchalant flair.McManaman helped Real win six trophies in four years, and scored his side’s second goal in their victorious 2000 Champions League final.He went on to leave Madrid in 2003, spending the final two years of his career with Manchester City.After hanging up his boots, McManaman worked as a pundit for Setanta Sports, BT Sport and ESPN.Now 53, he can regularly be seen on TNT Sports’ football coverage, especially when Liverpool or Real Madrid are playing.DAVID BECKHAM (2003-2007)In 2003, Real Madrid made Manchester United superstar Beckham their latest Galactico.Golden Balls joined a squad boasting the likes of Ronaldo, Raul, Zinedine Zidane and Roberto Carlos in the Spanish capital.Despite his love for high-end fashion and the celebrity lifestyle, Beckham became much beloved in Spain for his incredible work rate, professionalism and of course, quality.Despite boasting a star-studded squad, the fabled La Decima – a tenth Champions League triumph – eluded Real Madrid during his four-year stint.He didn’t leave empty-handed, however, winning the LaLiga title in 2007 before leaving for LA Galaxy.Since Beckham hung up his boots in 2013 he has continued to have several endorsement deals; including the likes of Adidas, Armani, Pepsi and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.Beckham, 49, also owns MLS side Inter Miami, and played a big role in their groundbreaking deal for Lionel Messi in 2023.MICHAEL OWEN (2004-2005)Like McManaman before him, Owen quit Liverpool for Real Madrid.But the former Ballon d’Or winner endured a frustrating season at the Bernabeu, finding himself stuck behind Ronaldo and Raul.Twelve months on from Owen’s £8million switch, Real Madrid doubled their money by flogging him to Newcastle.Owen then spent three years with Liverpool’s rivals Man Utd, before one final year at Stoke.Immediately after hanging up his boots, Owen signed up to be BT Sport’s primary co-commentator upon the channel’s launch.In addition to his punditry work, the former striker has enjoyed several other ventures.Owen, 45, has his own clothing range with Peacocks, while he also appeared on The Masked Singer.JONATHAN WOODGATE (2004-2007)Woodgate endured one of the most infamous debuts of all time after switching Newcastle for Real Madrid in 2004.The luckless defender went through injury hell following the £13.4m transfer, having to wait 17 months before playing his first game.Just 25 minutes in, the England international headed into his own net. Things then got even worse when he was sent off just after the hour mark.Woodgate played just 14 times that season, before a loan move to Middlesbrough effectively ended his Real Madrid career.After signing permanently for Boro, Woody earned a move to Tottenham in January 2008. He won the League Cup barely a month later, and remains the last Spurs player to score a winning goal in a cup final.Following spells with Stoke and back at Middlesbrough, Woodgate retired in 2016.He has since gone into coaching, managing Boro and Bournemouth.Woodgate, 45, returned to Middlesbrough once again in 2022, where he works as a first team coach under Michael Carrick.JUDE BELLINGHAM (2023-present)England superstar Bellingham sealed a blockbuster £115m transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid in the summer of 2023.The move has been a resounding success, with the midfielder immediately excelling in Spain.Bellingham scored on his debut, and went on net five times in his first four LaLiga matches.The image of the 21-year-old with his arms outstretched has quickly become an iconic one.Birmingham’s finest has already won LaLiga and the Champions League during his young career.And with Alexander-Arnold soon to be alongside him, Bellingham will feel that he can add plenty more to his already impressive trophy tally.This fan said: “It was written.”And that one posted: “Feels like fate.”Alexander-Arnold wasn’t involved in that match against Real, who won 1-0 thanks to Karim Benzema’s winner.Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool exit interviewTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD spoke to Liverpool’s in-house club media to explain his decision to leave Anfield.Here are the key parts…I think first and foremost, I want to say it’s not an easy decision and there’s a lot of thought and feeling that has gone into it. I’ve been here 20 years now, loved every single minute of it, achieved all my dreams, achieved everything I’ve ever wanted to here. Giving everything day in, day out for 20 years, I’ve got to a point now where I feel like I need a change, a new challenge for me as a player and as a person. And I think now is the right time for me to do that.Obviously there’s been a lot of noise around what the decision was going to be and how that was going to look. I know a lot of people will say I should have said sooner, a lot of people will say maybe I waited for the right time. But I felt personally the focus should always be on the pitch.I’ve got full confidence in the manager and the staff and the club going forward. It’s not about me thinking we’re not going to fight for titles or fight for trophies season in, season out… it was never about not having confidence in that, it just boiled down to what I felt I needed, and that is a change.Growing up, seeing players leave that I’ve loved watching and have helped the team win trophies, you feel a connection to the players that you watch, especially when they bring success to the club as well. So, I completely understand the feelings that go with that and I’ve felt it myself so I completely understand that the news will disappoint a lot of people, will anger people, it will make them upset. Obviously that went into the decision as well – it’s something you don’t want to do, you don’t want to ever have these moments where you feel like you’re letting a lot of people down, you’re disappointing a lot of people. But I’ve had to make a decision for me, it’s as simple as that. It’s a difficult one, it’s one that has played on my mind for a long time but being able now to get it off my chest will feel like a weight is lifted. And I think it’s important for the fans to know where I stand and know what the truth is.I fell in love with the club from a very, very young age and that’s something that has grown and grown day in, day out. This club has given me the opportunities to achieve everything beyond my wildest dreams. I can never repay enough of what’s been given to me and I don’t take it for granted at all. I’ve given everything every single day for 20 years now. I’ve sacrificed everything. I know the news will take a bit of time to set in and people won’t be happy and they’ll be disappointed. At the end of the day, you can be angry and hurt at me but I just hope that the lads, the rest of the team, the staff, everyone else is able to feel how good a season this has been and able to feel the love and support from the fans as they have done all season.There’s no doubt about it, I’ll be back – I’d love one day to be able to bring my kids to Anfield and show them that that’s where I’ve played and show them the videos and highlights of what we were able to achieve together. So just a huge thank you for that, thank you for everything you’ve ever done for me. Thank you for the support, thank you for the love that I’ve always felt, thank you for always having my back. I will always love the club, I will always love the people of the club, I will always love the fans and the supporters. Even though I’m leaving as player, as a fan I’ll always be a Liverpool fan. More

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      Chelsea star called out for ‘dressing like a janitor’ at glitzy awards bash as fans joke ‘club don’t pay him enough’

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      CHELSEA star Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall caused confusion among fans for his outfit of choice at the club’s glitzy end of season awards.After beating champions Liverpool 3-1 at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon, Chelsea hosted their club awards at London’s Grosvenor House in the evening.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall stunned fans with his more low-key look at the Chelsea End of Season awardsCredit: ChelseaThe likes of Cole Palmer turned up in blazers and shirtsCredit: GettyDewsbury-Hall has operated as a squad player for Chelsea this seasonCredit: RexMoises Caicedo won the Men’s Players’ Player and Player of the Season awardsCredit: GettyTyrique George won the Men’s Academy Player of the Season awardCredit: GettyThe awards for the Men’s, Women’s and Academy teams saw many stars turn on the glam as they arrived in sharp looking suits and dresses.Moises Caicedo picked up both the Men’s Players’ Player of the Season and Men’s Player of the Season award, while Tyrique George won the Men’s Academy Player of the Season gong.The midfielder was seen in a snazzy blazer and white shirt combo while exciting forward George sported black on black with a suit and blazer duo.Cole Palmer, Jadon Sancho, Enzo Fernandez, Reece James, Marc Cucurella and Trevoh Chalobah were among the numerous others who wore blazers and shirts to the event, with some adding ties and bow-ties as well.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, Dewsbury-Hall, who joined the Blues last summer for £30million from Leicester after the arrival of former Foxes boss Enzo Maresca, appeared to be the exception as he stunned fans with his more low-key look on the blue carpet.The 26-year-old was seen wearing a dark blue buttoned up shirt with a white top underneath which he paired with matching dark blue trousers and a pair of black shoes with a white sole.Reacting on social media, one fan took a screenshot of a Chelsea social media post on Instagram and simply posted: “??” with it.A second said: “Man thought they were going to grab a beer.”Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford BridgeA third added: “Bro is the janitor.”A fourth said: “Tried to be cute with the blue but it’s the WRONG shade.”Chelsea to build 1,400 luxury football-themed £1m apartments in Dubai’s beachfront with a branded pitch on the ROOFA fifth wrote: “Literally me when my parents force me to go a family event.”Another replied with a pair of crying emojis before they said: “You guys are hurting him.”A seventh added: “Well this fit is better than most of the suits some wore just that this is a bad picture.”Another fan commented: “He didn’t have a suit,” to which another replied: “Chels don’t pay him enough.”Chelsea End of Season award winners in fullChelsea celebrated their End of Season awards at London’s Grosvenor House on Sunday. Here are the full winners from the Men’s, Women’s and Academy teams:Men’s Player of the Season – Moises CaicedoWomen’s Player of the Season – Erin CuthbertMen’s Players’ Player of the Season – Moises CaicedoWomen’s Players’ Player of the Season – Nathalie BjornMen’s Academy Player of the Season – Tyrique GeorgeWomen’s Academy Player of the Season – Lola BrownPFA Community Champions – Millie Bright and Marcus BettinelliDewsbury-Hall signed a six-year deal when joining the Blues last summer and earns a tidy £80,000 a week, although this is in the middle range of the club’s wage structure under Todd Boehly’s ownership.The top earner at the club currently is James, who sits on £250,000, which was one of the first new contracts handed out under the BlueCo regime to a player not signed that summer.Dewsbury-Hall has been limited to just 12 Premier League appearances this season, although more than half of his minutes have come from 11 games in the Europa Conference League.He is yet to miss a start in the competition, scoring three goals -including a last-16 second leg winner over Copenhagen – and adding two assists.Read More on The SunA 4-1 win over Swedish side Djurgarden in the semi-final first leg put Chelsea on course to reach the final of the competition in Wroclaw, Poland, on May 28 where they will play one of Real Betis or Fiorentina.Win a trip to the UEFA Conference League Final in Wroclaw with Hankook More

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      Chelsea stars get suited and booted for end-of-season awards bash as one star joins very exclusive list with TWO gongs

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      CHELSEA’S stars put on their glad rags for their end-of-season awards party last night.Both the men’s and the women’s teams gathered together at the five-star hotel Grosvenor House for a night of awards and celebrations.Cole Palmer and Tosin Adarabioyo posed for a picture at the awards eveningCredit: X @ChelseaFCJadon Sancho looked smart in a black suitCredit: X @ChelseaFCNoni Madueke stopped for a snap with Sancho and PalmerCredit: GettyTrevoh Chalobah looked particularly dapperCredit: X @ChelseaFCSam Kerr, Erin Cuthbert, Guro Reiten and Millie Bright looked glamorous on the blue carpetCredit: GettyEnzo Fernandez was looking sharpCredit: GettyKeira Walsh, Rebecca Spencer and Ashley Lawrence stopped for a photo tooCredit: GettyThere were smiles on the faces of everyone in attendance as both sides had been successful on the pitch over the weekend.Sonia Bompastor’s women’s team are already WSL champions and 1-0 win over London rivals Tottenham Hotspur kept up their hopes of an Invincible seaon.While Enzo Maresca’s side pulled off a shock 3-1 win against Premier League champions Liverpool.Stars like Enzo Fernandez, Cole Palmer, Jadon Sancho and Noni Madueke got suited and booted as they stopped for pictures on the blue carpet.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhile women’s team players such as Millie Bright, Keira Walsh, Sam Kerr and Erin Cuthbert were also wearing their finest threads for the occasion.The glitzy night saw seven awards dished out for the players including Men’s Player of the Season, Women’s Player of the Season, the Players’ Player of the Season honours for both sides.Millie Bright and Marcus Bettinelli were recognised as the club’s PFA Community Champions – an award highlighting the players’ contribution to the club charity, the Chelsea Foundation.While 17-year-old Lola Brown was named the Women’s Academy Player of the Season after breaking into the first team this term.Most read in FootballYoungster Lola Brown was named Women’s Academy Player of the SeasonCredit: GettyTyrique George won the Men’s Academy Player of the Season awardCredit: X @ChelseaFCMarcus Bettinielli and Millie Bright were given the PFA Community Champions awardCredit: X @ChelseaFCJoin SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford BridgeAnd 19-year-old Tyrique George, who scored his first Blues goal last month, was named as the Men’s Academy Player of the Season.Fans voted Erin Cuthbert as the Women’s Player of the Season for the second time in her Chelsea career, while teammates voted Nathalie Bjorn as the Women’s Players’ Player of the Season.’S— happens’ – Sky Sports forced to apologise after Cole Palmer swears before slamming trolls in awkward interviewAs for the men’s first team, both awards were handed to midfielder Moises Caicedo.Caicedo, who moved to Stamford Bridge in 2023 for £115m, has been a standout performer Chelsea this season and a crucial cog in Enzo Maresca’s machine.His double swoop puts him in an exclusive club of Chelsea players that have won both the Players’ Player of the Season and the fan-voted Player of the Season awards in the same campaign.He joins the likes of Cole Palmer, Thiago Silva and Eden Hazard on the list of double winners.Chelsea won’t be able to celebrate for too long with the second leg of their Uefa Conference League semi-final against Djurgarden just around the corner.The SW6 side are 4-1 up from their first-leg triumph and look all but certain to make the final in Poland with another win on Thursday night.Win a trip to the UEFA Conference League Final in Wroclaw with HankookErin Cuthbert was named Women’s Player of the Season by the fansCredit: GettyNathalie Bjorn won the Women’s Players’ Player of the Season from her teammatesCredit: GettyMoises Caicedo swooped both the fan-voted Player of the Season and the Players’ Player of the Season awardsCredit: X @ChelseaFCCole Palmer won the double last seasonCredit: Getty More