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      New ‘Mikel Arteta law’ to be introduced to football after Arsenal manager’s Champions League antics

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      MIKEL ARTETA has helped bring about a change in the laws of football – to stop coaches being sent off for innocent mistakes.Arsenal chief Arteta was booked for grabbing the ball a fraction of a second before it went out of play for a Gunners throw on the touchline during his side’s Champions League defeat at Inter Milan.Mikel Arteta was booked during his side’s Champions League clash with Inter MilanCredit: GettyThe Gunners boss interfered with play at San SiroCredit: TNT SportsUefa confirmed that Arteta should have been dismissed for his action.But Lawmakers on the International FA Board have now agreed to propose that from next season it would just be an indirect free-kick and no disciplinary action against the coach or any substitute who accidentally infringed.Ifab technical director and former Premier League ref David Elleray explained: “It’s currently a direct free-kick, or a penalty if it happens inside the box as was the case in a match in Germany a few years ago, and a red card.“Of course, the coach might still get a yellow card if he comes out of his technical area to do it but if the Laws are applied rigorously we feel they are too draconian.”READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSThe Law change will be confirmed at The Ifab’s annual general meeting in Belfast in February, along with two other minor alterations.The first will allow Prem refs and officials in other domestic competitions to explain changed VAR decisions over stadium tannoys to give more explanation to fans in the ground over why a call has been overturned.That was trialled at the Women’s World Cup in 2023 and has been used more widely since.Prem clubs will decide if they want to adopt the measure for next season, in addition to the extra information now being displayed on giant screens.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd the last change will relate to drop ball situations where play is just outside the penalty box.Currently the ball has to go to the defending team if they have cleared it but from next term that will revert to the attacking side if they would clearly have taken up possession.Mikel Arteta fumes over penalty decisions as Arsenal lose to Inter Milan More

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      in Soccer

      Arsenal star Bukayo Saka’s glam girlfriend Tolami Benson steals the show in daring outfit at The Fashion Awards

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      BUKAYO SAKA’S girlfriend Tolami Benson walked a star-studded red carpet at The Fashion Awards in London last night.Tolami, 24, cut a glamorous figure as she wore a stunning black dress at the Royal Albert Hall.Tolami Benson attended last night’s Fashion AwardsCredit: GettyThe 24-year-old looked glamorous in her black dressCredit: GettyTolami posed for snaps on the red carpetCredit: GettyThe lavish bash featured a host of A-List names, including the likes of Rihanna and Maya Jama.And Tolami looked every inch the superstar as she posed for snaps on the red carpet.She and Arsenal star Saka have been dating since 2020.Tolami has supported the winger from the stands at England’s last two major tournaments.READ MORE ON ARSENALThe pair are otherwise very private over their relationship.There was no sign of Saka, 23, at last night’s event.But the Three Lions winger has taken an interest in fashion in the past.Saka attended the Burberry Show at London Fashion Week in September 2023.Most read in FootballTolami supported Bukayo Saka at Euro 2024 in GermanyCredit: PASaka was also cheered on by Tolami at the World Cup in QatarCredit: Dan Charity / Commissioned by the SunHe is an ambassador for the brand, alongside fellow Premier League stars Son Heung-min and Eberechi Eze.Tolami, meanwhile, works in public relations as a senior planning executive.Tolami Benson, Saka’s golden girlShe previously studied at the University of Birmingham.Saka is next set to be in action for the Gunners tomorrow night.Mikel Arteta’s men will host Manchester United in a huge test for new Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim.Saka appeared to laugh at West Ham fans during Arsenal’s 5-2 win at the London Stadium on Saturday – with Gunners fans online loving his “villain arc”.Rihanna appeared on the red carpet alongside A$AP RockyCredit: SplashMaya Jama stunned on the red carpetCredit: Splash More

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      in Soccer

      Why did Ipswich captain Sam Morsy not wear the rainbow armband?

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      IPSWICH TOWN fell to a 1-0 defeat away to Nottingham Forest last weekend.The match was played on a weekend that saw the Premier League promote their Rainbow campaign in support of the LGBTQ+ community.Sam Morsy has been Ipswich captain under Kieran McKenna since 2021Credit: AlamyAs well as players wearing rainbow laces and clubs using rainbow corner flags, captains are asked to wear rainbow armbands.However, Tractor Boys skipper Sam Morsy was the only one of the 20 top-flight captains who chose not to wear the rainbow armband.Why did Ipswich captain Sam Morsy not wear the rainbow armband?Ipswich captain Sam Morsy opted not to wear the rainbow armband during last weekend’s clash with Nottingham Forest due to his “religious beliefs”.The Egyptian midfielder is a practising Muslim – and his Premier League club have stated that they respect their captain’s decision while stressing their commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAn Ipswich spokesperson said: “Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone.“We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance.“During this year’s campaign, members of the club’s men’s and women’s first-teams visited our Foundation’s weekly LGBTQ+ football session, while the club also made a joint pledge of solidarity and inclusivity alongside Nottingham Forest ahead of the game.“At the same time, we respect the decision of our captain Sam Morsy, who has chosen not to wear the rainbow captain’s armband, due to his religious beliefs.Most read in Football“We will continue to grow an environment where all are valued and respected, both on and off the pitch.”Ahead of kick-off against Crystal Palace at Portman Road tonight, there are more planned initiatives to support the LGBTQ+ community, including a “takeover of the stadium’s big screen”. More

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      Man Utd in more fan fury after email defending ticket price hikes as supporters rage ‘talk about not reading the room’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have prompted further fan fury by doubling down on their mid-season decision to raise ticket prices.Red Devils chiefs have upped minimum ticket prices to £66 per game, with no concessions for kids or senior citizens.Man Utd fans have protested the controversial ticket decisionCredit: GettySir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos have made several cuts since buying a chunk of Man UtdCredit: AlamyFans protested outside Old Trafford at the weekendCredit: RexLast week the Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) criticised the decision in a strong statement, while a fan also claimed to have been “kicked out” of last night’s FA Cup draw for holding up a phone with the message “£66 thieves”.There were protests at Sunday’s game against Everton at Old Trafford, with a banner raised reading “Stop Exploiting Loyalty”.Responding to the backlash, Man Utd chiefs defended their decision in a statement.It read: “As a club, we have been focused on cost saving to put us on a stronger financial footing.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”This means having to make very hard decisions, including a significant reduction in our staff numbers.”It also means looking for opportunities to increase our revenues so we can continue to invest in football and infrastructure.”We have now sold over 97 per cent of tickets this season, many of which were at a discounted rate.”We are implementing some policy changes for matches that have already sold out, where only small numbers of tickets will be released.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFans affected have been emailed by club chiefs, with several expressing their dissatisfaction on social media.One post read: “Absolute waffle from United in that email about the ticket price rises, they can butter it up anyway they want, but there is and never will be any excuse for charging children £66 to watch a football game at Old Trafford.”Man Utd player ratings v Everton articleWhile a second added: “Absolute state of that email from United. Talk about not reading the room. Or maybe they have and they just don’t care and never will.”Man Utd forked out £10.4million in compensation when they sacked former boss Erik ten Hag last month.They then triggered an £11m release clause to prise new manager Ruben Amorim from Sporting.In the last financial year up to June 30, the Red Devils posted net losses of £113.2m.Fans have been left unhappy that newly-tightened financial measures are being taken out on them.’OFFENSIVE’MUST’s statement last week read: “The club has provided zero consultation on the matter, neither with the Forum nor the Fan Advisory Board nor MUST.”We were simply informed of the decision that there will be price rises affecting certain fans that are ‘urgently needed’ to address profitability and sustainability concerns.”Suffice it to say, that the idea that the fans must pay their “fair share” for the club’s excesses and/or mismanagement—and above all, the Glazers lack of investment over two decades—is offensive.”We fans have done everything we have been asked. We have cheered the players on even in the face of substandard performance.’MASSIVE PRESSURE'”We have gone to matches and abided by the new usage rules for tickets. We have taken on a price increase this year.”This is in addition to the hundreds, even thousands loyal fans pay to follow United home and away.”There is a risk that this is only the opening salvo of what will surely be massive pressure to implement a significant price rise for next season.”Once they have got used to charging £132 for a parent and child to come to OT, will they really go back to the old pricing levels for next season?”The statement continued by saying they object to the move in “the strongest possible terms” and it was a “step backward” based on previous talks between them and the club from before Ineos’ arrival.They added: “Over the coming days MUST will be seeking urgent discussions with the club to get them to listen to fans’ concern at this policy.”United fans have sucked up a lot. We will not be silent on this and we need to be prepared to resist any attempts to further drive up ticket prices.”Since Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival earlier this year, Man Utd have let 250 employees go, stopped paying Sir Alex Ferguson’s £2million-a-year ambassadorial salary, cancelled the Christmas party and axed company credit cards and private chauffeurs.The Ineos chief has also scrapped staff lunches, accommodation, extra tickets and post-match parties.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn contrast to Man Utd scrapping concessions, Brentford have announced a new initiative aimed at making it more affordable to bring kids to football.Announcing the move, the Bees confirmed: “For the rest of this season, travelling junior fans will pay no more than £10 to watch Brentford in the Premier League – whether that is youngsters supporting the Bees on the road, or under-18 away fans travelling to watch their team face Brentford at Gtech Community Stadium.”Man Utd fans protested the decision at Sunday’s gameCredit: Reuters More

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      in Boxing

      Israel Vazquez dead at 46: Three-time world champion boxer dies after cancer battle as tributes pour in

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      FORMER boxing champion Israel Vazquez has tragically passed away aged 46. The former three-time super-bantamweight champion was recently diagnosed with stage four sarcoma. Israel Vazquez has tragically passed away aged 46Credit: GETTYThe former three-time super-bantamweight champion was recently diagnosed with stage four cancerCredit: GETTYThe beloved Mexican mauler has sadly lost his battle with the diseaseCredit: GETTYBut ‘El Magnifico’ has tragically lost his brief battle with the disease. His passing was announced by WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman. He wrote on X “Israel Vazquez is finally resting in peace. “May God give strength and support to his wife, Laura, their children, family, and friends during these difficult times.”READ MORE BOXING NEWSVazquez’s illness left him incredibly weak and barely able to speak. His wife Laura told the Los Angeles Times: “He can hardly speak and, when he does, he is short of breath. He is very weak.” Vazquez and his family were given a grim diagnosis after the severity of his cancer was revealed but Laura refused to give up hope. She said: “We were told he would have six months to live, but I’m not going to give up. Most read in BoxingTributes for the late Vazquez have poured in from around the worldCredit: GETTY”We’re going to get a second opinion. We know there’s still hope.”Tributes for the late Vazquez began to pour in after news of his passing spread on social media.Eddie Hearn reacts wildy in the ring as Katie Taylor beats Amanda SerranoFormer world champ Billy Dib wrote: “Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Israel Vázquez after his courageous battle with cancer.”He was not only a champion but also a true warrior in and out of the ring. “My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who admired him. May he rest in peace.”One boxing fan wrote: “Rest in peace Israel ‘Magnifico’ Vazquez a true Mexican fighter who fought with pure heart every fight.”Condolences to Israel family.”Another said: “The Mexican idol encapsulated the famous Mexican fighting spirit.”And another said: “That’s such terrible news about Israel Vazquez. “A true warrior in and out of the ring. Israel Vazquez has four fights with fellow Mexican Rafael MarquezCredit: ALAMY”He had one of the best rivalries in boxing history and the 3rd fight with Marquez is one of the best fights of this century. “And a top 10 super bantamweight ever. Rest in peace, champ.”Marquez reached the pinnacle of the sport in the 39th professional fight in March 2004, in which he stopped Jose Luis Valbuena in the 12th round to claim the vacant IBF super-bantamweight crown.He would go on to win the WBC and Ring Magazine 122lbs straps a year later with a stunning third-round stoppage of Oscar Larios. He’d defend the belts twice before losing them in the first of his four bouts with Rafael Marquez in March 2007. He’d exact his revenge four months later with a sixth-round TKO victory and defend them the following March courtesy of a hard-fought split decision. READ MORE SUN STORIESMarquez, however, would level their series two years later with a third-round knockout in May 2010. The defeat to Marquez would prove to be the final bout of a legendary career for the Mexico City mauler. More

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      in Soccer

      Cole Palmer reveals he failed PE in hilarious interview as fans tell Chelsea star to consider going into comedy

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      CHELSEA midfielder Cole Palmer left fans in stitches after revealing he failed PE at school.The 22-year-old took part in a “what’s in the box?” challenge for Amazon Prime Video this week ahead of Chelsea’s trip to Southampton on Wednesday.Cole Palmer revealed he failed PE in a recent interviewCredit: Instagram @primevideosportThe Chelsea ace admitted he did not enjoy any subjectsCredit: Instagram @primevideosportAfter correctly guessing a pencil case for one of the items, Palmer was asked about his experience at school.The interviewer questioned: “Were there any particular teachers or subjects that really spoke to you when you were a kid at school?”Without hesitation, Palmer responded: “No. None. Nah, not that I can remember.”No offence to the teachers but not really.”READ MORE ON CHELSEASomeone else from behind the camera then chimed in to ask: “PE surely?”But the Chelsea ace simply answered: “I failed PE.”Then asked if it was just the writing side of the subject that he didn’t pass, he added: “Everything. I don’t know how.”Palmer’s reply left fans in stitches, with one person taking to social media to write: “He’s a comedian off the field 😂.”Most read in FootballAnother commented: “Love how real he is 😂.”FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSPalmer has managed 14 goal contributions in 13 Prem games this seasonA third said: “Could be a comedian tell u that haha 😂😂.”While a fourth quipped: “How can you fail PE?”Cole Palmer scowls at reporter’s question as fans hail Chelsea star’s interviews as ‘one of a kind’ Palmer also left fans in hysterics by scowling and shutting down a reporter when asked about Chelsea’s title aspirations at the weekend.He said: “Nah, it is too early, man.”The midfielder has scored eight goals and provided six assists in 15 appearances for Chelsea so far this season.The Blues currently sit third in the Premier League table, level on points with Arsenal. More

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      in Soccer

      Marc Guehi spoken to by FA for writing ‘I love Jesus’ on rainbow armband and told not to repeat message against Ipswich

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      MARC GUEHI has escaped FA action for writing “I love Jesus” on his rainbow captain’s armband.But the Crystal Palace skipper, who is a devout Christian, has been warned not to repeat his actions – or risk a charge.Marc Guehi has been warned for writing ‘I love Jesus’ on his rainbow armbandCredit: GettyThe Crystal Palace defender is a devout ChristianCredit: GettyThe England centre-half, 24, was one of 19 top flight captains who wore the armband in the weekend fixtures to support the LGBTQ+ community, with Ipswich’s Sam Morsy declining to do so due to his beliefs.But Guehi, whose father is a minister, risked facing action for writing the religious message on his.Guehi has earned 22 England caps since making his debut in 2022Credit: GettyThe Laws of the Game allow slogans “promoting the game of football, respect and integrity”.But the Laws also forbid “political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images”.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBreaching this requirement is a strict liability situation with the Laws adding: “For any offence the player and/or the team will be sanctioned by the competition organiser, national football association or by FIFA.”However, FA disciplinary beaks have opted to reprimand Guehi and Palace rather than going any further.Both Guehi and his club will be told that the appearance of any religious message on kits, boots or any other equipment – including the armband – is prohibited under FA Rule A4.Crystal Palace star Marc Guéhi talks about his road to 100 Premier League appearances The warning comes ahead of Palace’s two other games during the Rainbow Laces campaign, with the Eagles travelling to Ipswich tonight before hosting Manchester City on Saturday.Most read in FootballSpeaking previously about his religious beliefs, Guehi told The Athletic: “I’ve grown up loving God and when I have had the chance I still go to church with my family, and my faith is definitely a big part of my life.”Faith is everything that I’m involved with, really; even in football, where I’m trying to be a role model and show God’s graciousness and God’s glory through my life.”This is the eleventh season that the Premier League has supported the Rainbow Laces movement.The decision of Egypt international Morsy not to wear the armband was based on his Muslim beliefs.Wembley chiefs feel that is a matter for the club and the player as Morsy did not breach any kit and advertising regulations but chose not to take part in the initiative.Ipswich released a statement on the matter, saying: “Ipswich Town Football Club is committed to being a fully inclusive club that welcomes everyone.”We proudly support the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and stand with the LGBTQ+ community in promoting equality and acceptance.”During this year’s campaign, members of the club’s men’s and women’s first-teams visited our Foundation’s weekly LGBTQ+ football session, while the club also made a joint pledge of solidarity and inclusivity alongside Nottingham Forest ahead of the game.READ MORE SUN STORIES”At the same time, we respect the decision of our captain Sam Morsy, who has chosen not to wear the rainbow captain’s armband, due to his religious beliefs.”We will continue to grow an environment where all are valued and respected, both on and off the pitch.”Morsy refused to wear an armband against Forest due to his beliefsCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Arsenal vs Man Utd: Get £40 welcome bonus when you stake £10 on football with Tote today

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      ARSENAL host rivals Manchester United in a crucial Premier League showdown on Wednesday.And bookmakers Tote are celebrating by offering brand new customers a whopping £40 in free bets and bonuses to spend on the top-flight action when you sign up and stake £10!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereArsenal vs Man Utd: Get £40 welcome bonus — claim here*How to claim..Tote special offerVisit the Tote website HERE*Register a brand new account using the Promo Code: B10G40Deposit and place your first bet of at least £10 on either horse racing or football at odds of Evens or greaterOnce your Qualifying Bet is settled you will receive a £40 welcome bonusArsenal vs Man Utd: Get £40 welcome bonus — claim here*Arsenal vs Man Utd: Get £40 welcome bonus — claim here*Tote have a fantastic promotion available for brand new customers with a colossal £40 welcome bonus up for grabs.It’s easy to claim. Simply visit the Tote website and register a new account using the Promo Code: B10G40Once that’s sorted, deposit and place your first bet of at least £10 on either racing, football or other sports at odds of Evens or greater.Once your Qualifying Bet is settled — win or lose — you will receive £20 Tote Credit, £10 Free Sports Bet and 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza.Arsenal vs Man Utd: Get £40 welcome bonus — claim here*Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk*Tote. New customers online only. Eligibility restrictions apply. Only valid with code B10G40 on registration. £10 min qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater across sports or racing (if EW then min £10 Win + £10 Place). Receive £20 Tote Credit, £10 Free Sports Bet and 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza within 48 hours of qualifying bet settlement. 7-day expiry on free bets & Tote Credit. Your first bet will be your qualifying bet. One per customer. UK & ROI customers only. 18+. Full T&Cs apply. Gambleaware.org. Full T&Cs apply. More