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    Is this real’ say fans as Ryan Garcia announces exhibition fight with ‘Demolition Man’ despite ban from licensed boxing

    BOXING fans were left absolutely gobsmacked after Ryan Garcia announced his ring return – despite being SUSPENDED from competition.The former interim WBC lightweight champion is currently serving a one-year ban for a failed drug test ahead of his No Contest with Devin Haney in April, which he initially won via decision.Ryan Garcia is currently serving a one-year suspension for a failed drug testCredit: GETTYThe former interim WBC lightweight champ failed a drug test before his April clash with Devin HaneyCredit: GETTYBut the 26-year-old has announced he’ll be back in the ring on December 30Credit: GETTYGarcia has revealed he’ll face Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo in an exhibition boutBut the 26-year-old has announced he’ll be back in the ring on December 30 for an exhibition bout in Tokyo.’King’ is set to take on Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo, who locked horns with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao in July.Announcing the fight on social media, he wrote: “Super excited to announce I’m on my way to Tokyo.”Monday, December 30, 2024. This man tried to knock out Pac in an exhibition!!!READ MORE BOXING NEWS”Rubbed me the wrong way now ima have to teach Anpo a lesson!!! “Let’s go!!! Tokyo here I come.”Fight fans were gobsmacked by the announcement from Garcia, who doesn’t need to be licensed in order to take part in an exhibition.One commented: “Is this real?”Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSRyan Garcia $1million crownRYAN GARCIA wore a crown worth $1million for his ring walk before fighting Devin Haney.The American boxer’s head gear caught the eye of boxing fans before and after his shock victory.The 25-year-old headed to the ring draped in a white robe as he wore a diamond encrusted crown.Holding 1kg of gold and over 400 carats of diamonds the crown was made by Texas-based jeweller The Ice Champ.Garcia’s gown was also made up of 15,000 diamonds and took 10 days to create.He also told TMZ before the bout: “He was like ‘let’s create something where the champ of the boxing world and the champ of the jewellery world connect and make something unique. We created a unique crown.”Read more about Ryan Garcia.Another said: “No way.”And another said: “This is wild.One remarked: “Being banned and still getting a fight before Devin is crazy work.”Another chimed in: “Is this a joke?”Garcia’s period of ineligibility was backdated to April 20, meaning he’ll be free to return to competitive action from April 20, 2025 onwards.He was slapped with a suspension after testing positive for the banned substance Ostarine, which he vehemently denied intentionally taking.The New York State Athletic Commission also ordered him to forfeit £950,000 of his purse and pay a £7,900 fine.Garcia said of the ban on X: “I was already retired so I’ll just come back out of retirement for a year.”He added: “I never cheated.” More

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    Erik ten Hag spotted back in Manchester weeks after Man Utd sacking as he and wife Bianca head out for dinner

    ERIK TEN HAG is back in Manchester more than three weeks after being sacked by Manchester United.The Dutchman, 54, was dismissed by Red Devils chiefs at the end of October following their worst ever start to a Premier League campaign.Erik Ten Hag left Piccolino’s in Hale Village in ManchesterCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeHe exited the establishment with wife BiancaCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeFormer Man Utd boss Ten Hag smiled for the camerasCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeTen Hag and wife Bianca left in their Audi as they braved the cold weatherCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeIt brought to an end his mixed two-year spell at Old Trafford – which included Carabao Cup and FA Cup wins but also a disappointing eighth place finish in the Premier League last season.He jetted back to Holland immediately after losing his job as he was replaced by Ruben Amorim.Ten Hag was seen in his home country watching a game between Heracles Almelo and NAC Breda.But now, with Amorim set to take charge of his first game as Man Utd boss at Ipswich on Sunday, Ten Hag is back in the city.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe ex-Ajax head coach was spotted leaving Italian chain restaurant Piccolino in Manchester on Monday.He came out the front door alongside wife Bianca – with agent Kees Vos and other members of his management team also said to be in attendance.Ten Hag smiled for the cameras as he walked away.According to Manchester Evening News, he also took the time to clear out his possessions from his home.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMeanwhile, Ten Hag’s successor Amorim took charge of his first training session earlier on Monday.He spent time with a handful of first-team players, with the rest away on international duty.Man Utd divide fans with new ‘school playground’ free kick routine days after Ruben Amorim announcementTakeaways from the session included Amorim already shaping up in a 3-4-3 formation, Antony being utilised at wing-back, and Kobbie Mainoo being at the heart of everything.Ten Hag left Man Utd with the team languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table.Ruud van Nistelrooy was unbeaten in his four matches as interim boss prior to the international break.But a win over Ipswich would still be just their third Premier League victory in eight matches. More

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    Patrick Vieira lands new manager job but set for awkward reunion with former team-mate he found ‘difficult to work with’

    ARSENAL legend Patrick Vieira has landed a new job with Italian side Genoa just four months after leaving Strasbourg.The Gunners icon and former Crystal Palace boss, 48, spent just one year at Chelsea’s sister club in France.Patrick Vieira has become the new manager of Italian team GenoaCredit: AFPThe Arsenal legend left French side Strasbourg over the summerCredit: GettyBut Vieira is now returning to the beautiful game with Serie A strugglers Genoa.They are 17th in the table, just one point above the relegation zone, after only winning two matches all season.Former Italy striker Alberto Gilardino is set to be shown the door after nearly two years at the helm.And Vieira has agreed to replace him with immediate effect.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLGenoa’s squad is packed with talent including veteran Brazilian winger Junior Messias, Ukrainian playmaker Ruslan Malinovskyi and Croatian midfielder Milan Badelj.Prime aces such as Portuguese striker Vitinha and Danish anchorman Morten Frendrup still have plenty of years in the tank.While kids including Juventus loanee Fabio Miretti and ex-Arsenal defender Brooke Norton-Cuffy can provide some much-needed energy.But there is one star name Vieira will recognise straight away.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMario Balotelli, 34, only joined Genoa on a free transfer three weeks ago and is yet to score in two games.The infamous forward played alongside Vieira at Manchester City for one year during the 2010/11 campaign.Mario Balotelli arrives to join 12th club of rollercoaster career on free transfer and end footballing exile Vieira will find himself reunited with Mario Balotelli once moreCredit: GettyThe pair played together for a year at Man CityCredit: PA:Press AssociationVieira managed Balotelli at Nice but the pair did not see eye-to-eyeCredit: ReutersBalotelli then found himself under the Frenchman’s management at Nice in 2018.He reportedly turned up late to Vieira’s very first training session.And after failing to score in 10 appearances, Balotelli’s contract was terminated midway through the season.Vieira said at the time: “When it comes to Mario, I want to answer back, or just slam him up against the wall, or leave him hanging by his collar on the coat rack.“But I can’t, as I’m no longer a player.”Vieira has since opened up on his relationship with Balotelli.He said in 2020: “Mario’s mindset was difficult for a collective sport.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The philosophy I wanted to put in place, the togetherness and work ethic I wanted to build, it was difficult for me to work with a player like Mario.“It was really difficult for both of us to work together so we decided to go different ways.”Patrick Vieira’s career statsPlaying statsCannes, 1993-1996: 61 games, 4 goalsAC Milan, 1995-1996: 5 games, 0 goalsArsenal, 1996-2005: 405 games, 34 goalsJuventus, 2005-2006: 42 games, 5 goalsInter Milan, 2006-2010: 91 games, 9 goalsMan City, 2010-2011: 46 games, 6 goalsFrance, 1997-2009: 107 goals, 6 gamesTrophies: Serie A (AC Milan); Premier League x3, FA Cup x4, Community Shield x3 (Arsenal); Serie A x4, Italian Super Cup (Inter Milan); FA Cup (Man City); World Cup 1998, Euro 2000, Confederations Cup (France)Managerial statsNew York City, Jan 2016-June 2018: P90 W40 D22 L28Nice, June 2018-Dec 2020: P89 W35 D22 L32Crystal Palace, July 2021-March 2023: P74 W22 D25 L27Strasbourg, July 2023-July 2024: P39 W14 D10 L15Genoa, Nov 2024-current: P0 W0 D0 L0 More

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    Cristiano Ronaldo promises to ‘break the internet’ with his next podcast as he teases mystery guest

    CRISTIANO RONALDO has “promised to break the internet” after teasing the mystery guest for his next podcast.The Manchester United and Real Madrid legend, 39, launched YouTube channel ‘UR Cristiano’ in August.Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted at a massive mystery guest for his next podcastCredit: RexHe has already racked up an astonishing 67 MILLION subscribers.And Ronaldo has talked about a number of key topics in his 69 videos, ranging from his extraordinary career to goal reactions.So far he has only sat down for a chat with ex-United teammate Rio Ferdinand.While partner Georgina Rodriguez has also been a regular fixture.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, Ronaldo has now vowed to host a “top secret” guest on his next podcast.Teasing the episode to supporters, Ronnie declared “we are going to break the internet.”It remains to be seen who the Al-Nassr star ends up hosting.But fans can’t wait to see Ronnie back in action on their screen.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOne said: “We all want to see Cristiano and Messi together.”Another declared: “The man is amazing, you are amazing Cristiano.”Cristiano Ronaldo sits in on son Cristiano Jr’s training session as 14-year-old looks to follow in dad’s footsteps One noted: “The King of Football doesn’t just play, he inspires the world.”Another added: “My Goat.”Meanwhile, Ronaldo missed Portugal’s 1-1 draw with Croatia last night after returning to Saudi Arabia.He scored twice in last week’s 5-1 win against Poland in the Nations League.But with Portugal already securing their place as group winners, Ronaldo was allowed to leave camp early along with Man City’s Bernardo Silva, Man Utd’s Bruno Fernandes and Chelsea’s Pedro Neto. More

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    Frank Bruno forced to close boxing academy as he posts heartfelt statement

    BOXING legend Frank Bruno has had to close his boxing academy in Northampton – but has vowed to continue fighting for those with mental health issues.The Frank Bruno Boxing Academy was established to work alongside his charitable foundation which has helped transform the lives of thousands of people.Frank Bruno shared on social media the news his boxing academy was closingCredit: INSTAGRAMBruno is one of Britain’s most iconic heavyweightsCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe Frank Bruno Foundation – which continues to go from strength to strength – will carry on.But with a heavy heart he’s announced the closure of his academy in a post on social media, Bruno said: “Due to many factors it was decided that the boxing academy needed a premises of its own to continue successfully.”While a suitable building was found… that had already been run as a boxing gym, acquiring it had not been possible. So with great regret we now must accept that without suitable premises we can no longer carry on.”You know the people that this hurts the most are those people who needed something positive to look forward to and to get involved with. My team and I honestly did try.READ MORE IN BOXING”As I have said many times before, if it was not for boxing I would have ended up in prison.”Last night a source close to Frank Bruno told SunSport his determination to carry on fighting for those with mental health issues would not change.The source said: “Frank works tirelessly with his foundation to help those suffering in silence. He’s gutted the academy will have to close.”But his foundation is going great guns, and Frank will continue to give it his full support.”Most read in BoxingThe Frank Bruno Foundation offers well-being programmes, including a “stay in work” scheme to help professionals to cope with their mental health difficulties.It aims to provide services to assist participants to get through their difficulties, stay in work, and give them the tools and skills to manage their mental health.Four Kings takes a look back at the iconic week in British boxing from 1991The charity also offers a “wrap around service” where mentors assist and help with issues such as housing advice and filling in benefits forms.Help is also provided for CV writing, seeking voluntary roles in the community, and volunteering to help out with TFBF projects.Bruno shared another post confirming the foundation will continue.It read: “Morning can I re-confirm again as people are getting confused, the Frank Bruno Foundation charity and building is NOT, repeat NOT closing, it is the boxing academy.”The charity/foundation is working hard and continues to go from strength to strength and we are welcoming new people every week.”We are provide a service in the Northampton area that now is proving to be essential for people and carers who have mental health issues.” More

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    Jake Paul leaks DM from Daniel Dubois calling him out for world title fight after Mike Tyson Netflix bout

    DANIEL DUBOIS has called out Jake Paul after his victory over Mike Tyson.The influencer-turned-boxer beat the heavyweight legend on points in a controversial fight due to their 31-year age gap.Jake Paul beat Mike Tyson on points in their Netflix clashCredit: GettyDaniel Dubois is open to being Paul’s next opponentCredit: GettyPaul leaked Dubois’ DM and told him to ‘get in line’Credit: Instagram @jakepaulOver 65 million viewers watched the bout on Netflix and one of those was current IBF heavyweight title holder Dubois.And the Brit, who knocked out Anthony Joshua in September, is seemingly open to getting in the ring with Paul after messages to the fellow 27-year-old were leaked.The Problem Child posted a screenshot of the chat that read: “Hi Jake, Good business on the weekend but how would you feel fighting the legitimate heavyweight champion of the world.”This is Daniel Dubois calling you out let’s get it on.”READ MORE IN BOXINGPaul responded by sending back a queue ticket and wrote “get in line”.But he then revealed he would speak to promoters Nakisa Bidarian and Frank Warren about fighting Dubois, who previously beat Joe Cusumano on a bill that included Paul vs Tyron Woodley in 2021.Paul tweeted: “Man been boxing for 12 years, has over 100 fights between amateur and pro and fought on my undercard hahaha.”But f*** it… I’m going to have Nakisa talk to Frankie Warren and get you in line for the throne.”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”Unlike Artur, at least you have a few thousand fans.”It will take mega-money to get the fight on after Paul took home £31.7m for defeating Iron Mike and Dubois reportedly pocketed a maximum of £10m in his shock win over AJ.Frank Warren throws doubt on Dubois v Joshua rematch happening At the end of his tweet, Paul was referencing undisputed WBA, WBC, IBF and WBO light heavyweight champ Artur Beterbiev after he also challenged him.The Russian bruiser offered him a shot at his belts, saying: “What can you do in ring against the current undisputed champion? Just know that I’m always open to any suggestions.”Paul laughed it off, replying: “Top five pound for pound fighter in the world calling me out. Hahahahahaha. Four years in and I run this sport.”But Beterbiev, 39, doubled down: “After four years it’s time to have serious challenges. Didn’t notice your acceptance or rejection. So what are we gonna do?”Meanwhile, retired world champion Carl Froch, 47, also seemed open to fighting Paul after claiming he would beat him “with one arm behind my back”.But the American has his eyes on super middleweight star Canelo Alvarez, 34.After beating Iron Mike, Paul said: “He knows he wants a payday. So, he knows where the money man is at.”He’s going to want a payday and I want to show the world what I’ve been talking about, beating Canelo is true and I’ll have the biggest upset in the history of boxing.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAs for Dubois, Joseph Parker is his rumoured next opponent in February after the New Zealander recorded impressive wins over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang.AJ will not pursue an immediate rematch against him just yet as the date does not fit his schedule.Paul vs Tyson shocking punch statsTHE punch stats from Mike Tyson’s defeat to Jake Paul made for “sad” reading.Veteran Iron Mike, 58, started strongly enough in his Netflix boxing fight with the former YouTuber.But he simply ran out of gas within the first few minutes of the eight-round contest.In the 16 minutes of action, the former undisputed heavyweight world champion landed just 18 punches – averaging just 2.25 successful hits per round.In total, he only attempted 97, meaning he made contact with just 18 per cent.By comparison, Paul, 27, threw a whopping 278 punches – nearly 200 more than his ageing opponent – but still only landed 78 for a success rate of 28 per cent despite his opponent barely moving.His most explosive round came in the third when the victorious Problem Child attempted 44 punches and connected with 16 of them.However, a woeful fifth round saw just four punches landed between the pair as the quality failed to live up to the hype and Paul refused to go for the knockout. More

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    Amorim assembles first Man Utd XI, hands Antony new position and redefines defenders’ roles in debut training session

    RUBEN AMORIM’S debut training session lifted the lid on his amazing plans to restore Manchester United to the top of English football.The Portuguese boss took charge at Carrington this week ahead of Sunday’s trip to Ipswich Town.Ruben Amorim has taken charge of his first Man Utd training sessionCredit: GettyHe had a number of senior stars to work with ahead of the Ipswich gameCredit: GettyMost of United’s squad remain away on international dutyCredit: GettyAmorim’s first session provided plenty of insight into his plansCredit: GettyAmorim will be eager to start his reign with an emphatic win.And United fans are hoping for a taste of the success he brought to former side Sporting Lisbon.Amorim’s first training session saw him work with a handful of senior stars, with the majority of his squad away on international duty.But that didn’t stop the tactician from getting properly stuck in.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe likes of Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw were still in town.And youngsters including Leny Yoro and Kobbie Mainoo were available after injury issues.However, Amorim made sure to include several surprises on the training ground – including the promotion of 16-year-old 6ft 5in wonderkid Godwill Kukonki.Former Portugal midfielder Amorim wore a bright red coat as he oversaw a feisty session.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe immediately brought the energy back to United’s training in his hands-on role.Here, SunSport runs through the biggest moments from Amorim’s first Carrington session…Man Utd fans claim Ruben Amorim could be ‘new Jurgen Klopp’ after heartwarming gesture on stadium tourAmorim looks to be sticking with his 3-4-3 system from Sporting LisbonCredit: GettyThe manager organised players into fresh rolesCredit: GettyNEW FORMATIONAmorim won two Portuguese titles with Sporting playing a 3-4-3 system.United have been a solid back-four side stretching all the way back to Fergie’s days.And many were left wondering whether Amorim would stick with the same old tried-and-trusted formula.But it appears clear he will not be compromising his own methods for the sake of history.Amorim deployed a 3-4-3 shape during his first practice match, with some very interesting new roles.Rashford was moved centrally as the main striker, allowing Amad Diallo and Mason Mount to take up advanced positions just behind.Luke Shaw and Yoro sat either side of Jonny Evans as Amorim’s trio of centre-backs.Antony could be set for a new lease of lifeCredit: YouTubeHe lined up as the right wing-back, giving him full control of the flankCredit: YouTubeANTONY’S ROLEQuestions have been circling over Antony’s future for months now.He failed to impress in his natural position as a winger under Erik ten Hag.Yet Amorim clearly has other plans for the Brazilian.Antony was deployed as a WING-BACK at Carrington yesterday, giving him full freedom of the right flank.With extra men inside, he appeared confident at not having to cover for a marauding full-back.And Amorim’s positional shift could end up giving Antony a new lease of life.United’s defenders were encouraged to play quick short passesCredit: YouTubeThe likes of Leny Yoro could thrive in the back threeCredit: GettyDEFENCE TO ATTACKYoro, Evans and Shaw were at the heart of everything on the field.Amorim is known for his probing football achieved through sharp and quick passes.And it quickly became apparent that all his attacks will start from the back.United’s three defenders were encouraged to move the ball quickly from side to side.They appeared to be under instructions to take a maximum of two touches in a bid to speed up the forward play.And the days of United struggling to build from the back could be over.Amorim took Kobbie Mainoo to the side for a one-on-oneCredit: YouTubeMainoo looks set to play a big role under AmorimCredit: GettyMAINOO MAIN MANTeen ace Mainoo already looks to have cemented himself as a big player for Amorim.The midfielder was back on the field after a month on the sidelines.And Amorim took an immediate shine to one of United’s most talented players.With the Red Devils looking to start from defence, Mainoo’s role as a deep playmaker has become even more important.Amorim could be seen having an intense one-on-one conversation with the youngster during a break in play.United’s new boss appeared to be showing Mainoo, 19, how to position himself without the ball.And Amorim also instructed him how to receive a pass from the centre-backs before pivoting and driving forward into the opponents’ half.Amorim made sure to get stuck in himselfCredit: GettyHe took control with a bright red coat and whistleCredit: YouTubeHANDS-ON RUBENFans will always get excited when they see their manager getting stuck in.But Amorim is so full of energy he could likely pull on a shirt and play this weekend.He held nothing back as he put himself in the middle of United’s session.The boss got involved with plenty of running and touches of the ball.Amorim made sure he commanded attention with his very own whistle.And his bright red coat was hard to miss as he shouted words of encouragement from beginning to end.Amorim wants his goalies playing a short passing gameCredit: YouTubeAndre Onana is likely to benefit greatly from the tacticCredit: YOUTUBEKEEPER’S ROLEAndre Onana’s position at United has always come under the spotlight.Lacking David de Gea’s shot-stopping prowess, much was made of his ball-playing ability.But that was never realised under the old regime, leaving Onana exposed while attempting to play out.However, those days could be over under Amorim.His training goalkeeper was constantly receiving hints from a coach throughout the session.And there were no long balls to be seen, with the young stopper getting counter-attacks against the seniors going with sharp short passes.Amorim was always encouraging his players where to run toCredit: YouTubeEveryone charged back to defend against a counter-attackCredit: YouTubeMOVEMENT IS KEYFrom the outside, Amorim could be seen constantly telling players where to move.An early training drill had two players sprinting in a tight space attempting to win balls from teammates who could only take one touch at a time.On the field, Amorim pointed to spaces as players were encouraged to anticipate passes from team-mates.But United’s new boss was also thinking about his side out of possession too.Whenever the seniors lost the ball, the entire group were made to sprint back to their own half.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis saw United put up a strong defensive block to prevent counter attacks, while also allowing themselves to get back in position for fresh build-up play.And it is clear Amorim is just as focused on keeping goals out as he is on scoring them. 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    Man Utd looking at loan transfer for PSG star Randal Kolo Muani who would slot straight into Ruben Amorim’s new system

    MANCHESTER UNITED are lining up a loan move for Paris Saint-Germain forward Randal Kolo Muani, according to reports.The Red Devils are preparing for the start of a new era as Ruben Amorim begins his reign as Erik ten Hag’s successor.Randal Kolo Muani could be set for a loan move to Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyRuben Amorim will take charge of his first game as Red Devils boss on SundayCredit: GettyThe Portuguese coach, 39, will lead his Man Utd side out for the first time on Sunday when they travel to Portman Road to take on Ipswich.Much has been made of Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 formation which he is expected to implement at Old Trafford.And the shift in style could see a move for France international Kolo Muani.According to L’Equipe, Man Utd are considering a loan move in the January window.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThey are unable to afford a permanent deal having spent £180million in the summer.But PSG, who paid Eintracht Frankfurt £77m to bring Kolo Muani to the French capital in the summer of 2023, could still be willing to offload the attacker on a short-term agreement.That is because he has become surplus to requirements under Luis Enrique – starting just two of PSG’s 11 Ligue 1 games so far this season.Kolo Muani, who can play on either flank, led the line in a 3-4-3 formation while at Frankfurt – where he scored 26 goals and assisted 17 in 50 appearances.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHow Man Utd could line up with Kolo MuaniSo joining Man Utd would likely see him compete with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee as the main threat through the middle.And Amorim may well see him as the better fit given he has played in the formation in the past.Man Utd legend Nemanja Vidic slams club’s recruitment and questions the ‘character and resilience’ of playersKolo Muani’s PSG contract runs until 2028 – and he recently attempted to quash rumours of him leaving the French champions.He said: “No, I’ve never thought about it [a transfer]. You have to keep the mentality.”It’s up to me to keep working so that the coach trusts me.”Kolo Muani has scored 11 goals and provided six assists in 52 games for PSG.At international level, he has earned 27 caps for France, scoring eight goals and assisting four. More