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    Roberto De Zerbi ‘showed Marseille side his Man Utd job offer and revealed why he chose them instead’ in crazy team-talk

    ROBERTO De Zerbi showed his Marseille players his Manchester United job offer in an unbelievable team-talk, according to reports.The former Brighton boss, 45, was linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer but left for France before United handed Erik ten Hag a contract extension.Roberto De Zerbi reportedly showed his Marseille players his Man Utd job offer in a team-talkCredit: ReutersDe Zerbi was being considered as a replacement for Erik ten Hag this summerCredit: The TimesMan Utd have since sacked Ten Hag with new boss Ruben Amorim set to take charge tomorrow.But a report from L’Equipe would suggest that Amorim may not have been their first choice for the job with De Zerbi receiving a contract offer from the Red Devils in the summer.The French outlet have claimed that, prior to Marseille’s first game of the season, De Zerbi got out a projector to show his new players his contract offer from Man Utd.Reportedly telling the squad: “This is where I could have been, but I put my passion before money. I came to Marseille for the passion.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLIt clearly worked as Marseille battered State Brest 5-1 away from home to start their campaign.However, the ex-Seagulls gaffer has seen his Marseille team struggle in recent weeks, winning just two of their last six games in all competitions.And after falling NINE points behind league leaders PSG in the Ligue 1 standings, De Zerbi may have resort to some crazy measures to try and get his team ticking once again.A 3-1 defeat to to Auxerre on Friday prompted another crazy rant by De Zerbi in his post-match press conference.Most read in FootballRoberto De Zerbi’s managerial careerA brief look at De Zerbi’s time as a manager…Darfo Boario (2013-2014)Games: 22Wins: 5Win percentage: 22.7%Foggia (2014-2016)Games: 90Wins: 48Win percentage: 53.3%Palermo (2016)Games: 13Wins: 1Win percentage: 7.7%Benevento (2017-2018)Games: 29Wins: 6Win percentage: 20.6%Sassuolo (2018-2021)Games: 120Wins: 43Win percentage: 35.8%Shakhtar Donetsk (2021-2022)Games: 30Wins: 20Win percentage: 66.6%Brighton (2022-2024)Games: 89Wins: 38Win percentage: 42.7%Marseille (2024-present)Games: 11Wins: 6Win percentage: 54.5%FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe tactician threatened to quit after reportedly fuming that his players had “humiliated” him and the club in front of their own fans in a changing room dressing down.Speaking in his press conference, he said: “If I’m the problem, I’m ready to leave. Ruud van Nistelrooy impressed by Amad Diallo after Man Utd end European drought “I’ll leave without the money, I don’t care about all the rest.”I came to Marseille for the Velodrome, to play at the Velodrome. And I can’t get the players to give here what I see in training and in away games. It’s my fault, it’s my responsibility.”Playing at the Velodrome is a privilege. I want to be able to pass on to the people who work with me what I think about football. And I can’t do that.”De Zerbi’s current contract runs until June 2027.De Zerbi’s Marseille side have been struggling in recent weeksCredit: Getty More

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    We live by Chelsea training ground – we HATE their ‘obscene’ plan to ‘take over’ our tiny village & ruin our way of life

    RESIDENTS living near Chelsea’s training ground have voiced their strong opposition to “obscene” expansion plans.The club asked for permission to build a boutique housing estate in Stoke D’Abernon, Surrey – but those plans have now been rejected by the council.Chelsea Football Club’s plans to demolish farm buildings (pictured) on a stable yard in Surrey have been terminated by the local councilCredit: Gary StoneCleaning boss Sally Judd was among the local residents to come out against the club’s expansion over recent yearsCredit: Gary StoneChelsea had planned to expand around their training ground in CobhamCredit: GettyLocals feared the development would see their house prices soar, trigger traffic chaos and ruin their leafy suburb.Chelsea have no current official plans to expand the ground – but that hasn’t stopped residents from worrying.Another local amenity is threatened for the benefit of Chelsea Football clubAnonymous resident Local Angela Johnstone, 65, said: “The knock on effect of all of it isn’t good.”They take us as a job lot. Everything in this area goes up accordingly, they all think we are married to Chelsea footballers and we are not.Read more Football News”They think we are being paid megabucks, the ordinary person feels a bit left out. The traffic is already horrendous.”We are trying to keep housing in this area down because the traffic is already horrendous. You need to ask Elmbridge Borough Council what they class as affordable housing, who they think can afford their affordable housing because it is still extortionate.”Neither of my sons would have a hope in buying anywhere around here. The youngsters are moving out because the area is getting too expensive for them.”The application, put forward in November 2022 and terminated by Elmbridge Borough Council, was for six new homes – a one bed, two bed, three three beds and one four bed home on the other side of Stoke Road to the training ground.Most read in FootballFour “unsightly” low-rise stables would need to have been demolished and three Grade II listed Victorian-era barns gutted and “sensitively” turned into homes, a Planning, Design and Access Statement said. Jamie Carragher says ‘players should stop joining Chelsea’ and ‘sign a four-year deal at a proper club’ in stunning rantSome locals were fearful about the lack of affordable housing in the area – with homes in the village averaging a staggering £1,247,917, according to figures from RightMove.Sally Judd, who works at a laundrette on Cobham High Street, said: “The village has gone downhill. People have bought their houses on the council estates but being Cobham, the pricing of the houses have gone up so much.”My daughter is 33 years old and still lives with me, with a child, in a two bed flat. She can’t even get on the council housing list.”The price of everything in Cobham has gone up now. They keep saying about affordable housing but nothing is affordable around here.”Another resident fumed “another local amenity is threatened for the benefit of Chelsea Football club” in one of dozens of objections to the homes.Mr McWaed was concerned about traffic in the area as a result of the expansionCredit: Gary StoneChelsea have no current official plans to expand the ground – but that hasn’t stopped residents from worryingCredit: Gary StoneLocal Angela Johnstone worried about affordable prices and more traffic congestionCredit: Gary StoneElmbridge Borough Council rejected the plans, submitted in November 2022Credit: Gary StoneMaureen Christmas, 75, who lives a street over from the Chelsea training ground, added: “There are so many houses around here now, it’s so built up.”I’ve noticed how crowded the roads are here. If it’s these great big mansions that only millionaires can afford to live in, no, I’m absolutely against it.”The roads are jammed with cars coming too and from, the roads are covered with parked cars.”Mr McWaed, who’s lived in Cobham for decades, was also worried about traffic chaos.Chelsea cleared by Premier League after controversial £76.5m sale of two hotels to sister companyIN September, Chelsea was cleared by the Premier League following an investigation into the sale of two hotels to help them comply with profit and sustainability rules.Company accounts in April showed that the Millennium and Copthorne hotels next to Stamford Bridge had been sold for £76.5million.Clubs are allowed to lose up to £105m over a three-year period under PSR rules.The sales of the hotels helped the Blues avoid a potential loss of £166.4m loss, instead reducing the figure to an allowable £89.9m for the financial year.The hotels changed hands from Chelsea FC Holdings Ltd to BlueCo 22 Properties Ltd, both companies under the control of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital ownership.However, the sales have now been ratified by the Premier League under a “fair market valuation” relating to the league’s associated-party transaction rule.It is unclear whether the £76.5m figure has changed.Chelsea maintained confidence that they were within compliance of PSR rules, with certain costs for infrastructure, academy and women’s football allowed to be deducted.Such transactions are not allowed in Uefa competitions or the English Football League, who closed the loophole in 2021.He explained the area was already struggling with congestion due to a combination of major roadworks on the M25, A3 and more newbuilds across Surrey.’THIS TOWN CENTRE IS THRIVING’Despite backlash over Chelsea’s now rejected plans, not all locals were opposed to the idea of expansion.Russell Benzies, 65, hailed the club and claimed it had a positive impact on Cobham.He added: “Since Chelsea has moved in, I can’t see any damage they have done. Cobham employs 150 people.”Chelsea are developing the area, of course, if you live around the ground, you probably aren’t going to be happy, you’ll be a bit worried.”In the 25 years I have lived here there has been a lot of development and obviously you’re concerned, the build-up of traffic, but this town centre is thriving. “There’s lots of things that impact the house prices here more than Chelsea.”Meanwhile, Chelsea believed the now axed development would “make a valuable contribution of housing” to the area.The west London side, whose last trophy was the Champions League in 2021, was acquired by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital in May 2022.When contacted by The Sun for comment, a spokesperson for Elmbridge Borough Council reiterated its reasons for terminating the stable yard plans.They said: “It was ‘disposed of’. This means no decision was made and it is taken off the planning register.”This is where an application has been with the council for a long period without being determined and is beyond the period where the application can be appealed for non-determination.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The applicant was given a number of opportunities to address issues with the application with no response.”Chelsea Football Club and Clearlake Capital declined to comment.Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly is thought to be at the forefront of the development plansCredit: AlamyThese farm buildings were due to be demolished in order to build a new housing estateCredit: Gary StoneLocals feared traffic chaos if the plans had gone aheadCredit: Gary StoneLife near Chelsea’s Surrey training groundsTHOSE living near Chelsea FC’s Surrey training grounds, dubbed the “Beverly Hills of Britain”, have told how they rub shoulders with Premier League footballers and Hollywood actors.Homeowners in the sleepy villages of Oxshott and Cobham spot stars, flanked by 24/7 security, on the daily.Peter Crouch, Jorginho and Raheem Sterling are just some of the players calling the Surrey area home, along with former Hollywood veterans Stanley Tucci and Antonio Banderas.Tree lined roads and protective gates give privacy to the mansions worth millions of pounds.Oxshott has just a few shops, including a luxury coffee house and a fancy butchers – with owners spotting blacked-out Bentleys and Jaguars cruising past.In nearby Cobham, the high street is filled with pilates studios and juice bars.Local butcher Joe Harrington, 21, who grew up in the area, regularly sees flash cars and recognisable faces from behind the counter.He said: “We see a lot of football players hanging about, and their friends and family.”We get a couple in the shop, but people usually pop in on their behalf, we don’t see them directly every time.”There are a few big names and faces hanging about, someone came in the other day who had seen Raheem Sterling at the petrol station down there.”You see a load of faces pulling out of the training ground over the years, I remember seeing Jorginho pull out in a red Ferrari.”It’s full of them round here, everyone’s got big four by fours, Bentleys, any BMWs, Audis, Jaguars.”I did some landscaping jobs and there are some massive houses.”Many Chelsea players are regulars at Cobham restaurant Grappelli, an Italian in the centre of the village.Manager Eddie Alves, 36, said Jorginho came particularly often, adding: “We even became good friends, we went out together, my kids are friends with his kids, he is an amazing guy.”He even did a charity event here with us, celebrated his birthday here with us, so I love all of them, but I have a special attention for Jorginho.”He is an unbelievable guy, he is number 1 for me.”He said Ashley Cole, John Terry and Robert Sanchez – as well as former players Roberto di Matteo, Jimmy Hasselbank, Glen Johnson and Peter Crouch – also dined there a lot. 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    Ricky Hatton tells Jake Paul what he would do against Mike Tyson to avoid ‘being knocked into the middle of next week’

    JAKE PAUL has been warned he has to drag Mike Tyson into deep waters to avoid being brutally added to the boxing icon’s highlight reel.The YouTube sensation takes on the former undisputed heavyweight champion in a controversial crossover clash in Texas this coming Saturday morning.Jake Paul throws down with boxing legend Mike Tyson on Friday nightCredit: REXBoxing icon Tyson, 58, looks to be in menacing shape for his ring returnCredit: INSTAGRAM@MIKETYSONBrit boxing legend Ricky Hatton has urged Paul to stay long and drag Tyson into deep watersCredit: EPATyson, 58, is in phenomenal shape for his ring return and has stunned boxing fans with how ferocious he’s looked in training.And Brit boxing legend Ricky Hatton believes there’s a strong chance he’ll obliterate Paul if he catches him in the early goings of the ten-rounder.He told The Action Network: “I think if Mike hits him, he’ll knock him into the middle of next week.“He looks very fast and very explosive. He looks fantastic for his age.READ MORE ON TYSON VS PAUL”But if you’re in Jake Paul’s corner you would think, ‘He is 58 years old and I’m just going to give him the first two rounds, jab and move, keep out of his range and hopefully he will gas.'”You’d expect him to at his age. Mike will probably put all of his eggs in one basket and start early because of his age.”And if I was Jake, I would stay out of his jab, wait for him to slow down a bit and put my foot down on the gas.”I can see Mike by knockout if he is to win or if Jake is going to win then he will win on points.”Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSJAKE PAUL VS MIKE TYSON: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE BOUTAs impressed as he’s been by what he’s seen of Tyson’s training, Hatton, like many others, believes his Dallas dust-up with Paul is farcical.He said: “Mike Tyson is one of my heroes and is one who is everyone’s hero and I have no doubt that he is one of Jake Paul’s heroes.Fans get first look of Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson training camp with Iron Mike ‘looking like he’s 25 again’“So why you would want to fight one of your heroes who is nearly 60 years of age?”And potentially hurting one of your heroes is madness.“Mike looks great on the pads, really explosive and I hope I’m like him at 60 but that’s only 10-second bursts. “Can he maintain it for a number of rounds? I’m all for the exhibitions.“MMA fighters can fight, YouTubers can fight someone else and I get that world exists but I think something should be put in place to stop something like this happening. “Mike is our hero and is 58 years old.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He has every chance of flattening Jake Paul but at 58, is he in condition to come back from what’s going to come at him by Jake Paul?”I can’t say I’m a fan of this.”Ricky Hatton isn’t a fan of Mike Tyson taking on the much younger Jake PaulCredit: GETTYHatton is a big fan of Iron MikeCredit: NEWS GROUP NEWSPAPERS LTD More

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    New Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim drops massive hint at summer transfer raid on Sporting, admitting ‘they are good players’

    INCOMING Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has dropped a huge hint that he might carry out a summer transfer raid on Sporting Lisbon.Amorim is set to begin work as United boss tomorrow, calling time on his four-and-a-half-year spell with Portuguese giants Sporting.Ruben Amorim has hinted that he could raid Sporting Lisbon for signings in the summerCredit: PAThe 39-year-old has enjoyed success with Sporting since taking over in 2020, winning two league titles and two Portuguese League Cups.And he’s done so with an incredible squad that has helped him gain an advantage over the opposition, alongside his tactical skillset.But it looks as though Amorim could be ready to rip that squad apart and cherry pick the best part to lure to the Theatre of Dreams.Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of his final game in charge of Sporting tonight, Amorim hinted that he could try and sign some of the current crop at the José Alvalade Stadium.READ MORE ON MAN UTDRuling out a short-term raid, he said: “In January I’m not going to get anyone from Sporting. That’s what I said.”He then opened the door for potential business in the summer.He added: “In the summer I don’t know what I’m going to do. The main point is to hold on until the summer. “Second point, you can see that Sporting players are great players. Let’s see what will happen.”Most read in FootballAmorim could be keen on bringing star striker Viktor Gyokeres to Man UtdCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSporting is stacked with top talent that could be of use to a struggling Man Utd side.The Red Devils are crying out for a goalscorer and will certainly have a keen eye on Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres.Watch Ruben Amorim celebrate with guard of honour as Sporting Lisbon boss narrowly avoids nasty bumps accidentThe former Brighton and Coventry striker has scored an unfathomable 66 goals in 67 appearances since his arrival in Portugal.While he has already found the back of the net 23 times in 17 games this term – including a hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League.Other players who have been tipped to make the switch include ball-playing centre-back Goncalo Inacio and holding midfielder Morten Hjulmand.Amorim will already be reuniting with one of his former players at Old Trafford.Summer arrival Manuel Ugarte played under Amorim 85 times and was a huge part of Sporting’s team during his spell with the club.Amorim will be reunited with Manuel UgarteCredit: AlamyThree Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More

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    Former Chelsea star to join Thomas Tuchel’s team at England as former Blues boss continues raid on old club

    THOMAS TUCHEL has further pillaged former club Chelsea as he prepares to take charge of England.The FA officially announced the out-of-work German as Gareth Southgate’s successor in October.Thomas Tuchel was appointed as Gareth Southgate’s successor in OctoberCredit: PAThe 51-year-old takes charge of the Three Lions on January 1 and is currently finalising his coaching teamCredit: REUTERSThe German is set to raid former club Chelsea for the services of goalkeeping coach HilarioCredit: REXHilario has been part of Chelsea’s coaching staff for eight yearsCredit: REXBut he won’t take charge of the Three Lions – who he’s signed an 18-month deal with – until January 1.Tuchel, 51, is using the time off to get his backroom team in place.And SunSport can reveal he’s set to add Chelsea’s goalkeeping coach Henrique Hilario to his team.Multiple sources have confirmed Tuchel has persuaded the former Blues stopper to swap club coaching for international football.READ MORE ON TUCHELHilario has been part of Chelsea’s coaching team for eight years after being given a job by former boss Antonio Conte.And SunSport understands the FA will make a formal approach for the 49-year-old, who made 39 appearances for the Blues, after today’s London derby with Arsenal.Hilario won’t be the only asset Tuchel has plundered from Chelsea, who he guided to Champions League glory in May 2021.He’s also convinced Chelsea’s current performance analyst James Melbourne to join him.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSouthgate vs Tuchel records comparedTHOMAS TUCHELAugsburg II 2007-2008P34 W 20 D8 L6 Win percentage: 58.82%Mainz 05 2009-2014P184 W72 D46 L66 Win percentage: 39.13%Borussia Dortmund 2015-2017P107 W67 D23 L17 Win percentage: 62.62%Honours: DFB Pokal Paris Saint Germain 2018-2020P127 W95 D13 L16 Win percentage: 74.8%Honours: Ligue 1 X2, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, Trophee des Champions x2Chelsea 2021-2022P100 W60 D24 L16 Win percentage: 60%Honours: Champions League, Super Cup, Club World CupBayern Munich 2023-2024P61 W37 D8 L16 Win percentage: 60.66%Honours: BundesligaGARETH SOUTHGATEMiddlesbrough 2006-2009P151 W54 D43 Win percentage: 35.76%England U21 2013-2016P37 W27 D5 L5 Win percentage: 72.97%Honours: Toulon tournamentEngland 2016-2024P102 W61 D24 L17 Win percentage: 59.8%Honours: Euros runners up, 2020, 2024Hilario and Melbourne will be welcomed by a familiar face in former Blues coach Anthony Barry, who Tuchel has installed as his No2.Tuchel is champing at the bit to get started with the Three Lions, saying upon his appointment: “I’m obviously very excited and honoured to be the new head coach of England.Thomas Tuchel England Press Conference“I want to take the opportunity to thank the FA for their trust and I am very excited to start this journey in January with a very special and exciting group of players to make our dream come true in America.“I understood very quickly that is it is a big job, I think always the job you are in is the biggest job.”And it makes no sense to compare but it feels big and feels like a privilege.”He added: “I’m sorry, I have a German passport.”All of those supporters maybe [have] felt my passion for the English Premier League and the country and how I love to live and work here.“Hopefully I can convince them and show them and prove to them I am proud to be an English manager and do everything to show respect to this role and this country and the target for the next 18 months.”Former Chelsea assistant coach Anthony Barry will be part of Thomas Tuchel’s teamCredit: GETTY More

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    Why can’t Raheem Sterling play for Arsenal against Chelsea?

    ARSENAL make the short trip to Stamford Bridge to take on London rivals Chelsea in a blockbuster Super Sunday clash.The Gunners are in need of a huge win after claiming just one point from their last three games in the Premier League.Arsenal were beaten 1-0 away at Newcastle last SaturdayCredit: GettyMikel Arteta’s men dropped out of the top-4 after last Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle at St James’ Park.The Spaniard would have hoped for a more favourable fixture this weekend as only Manchester City have beaten Chelsea at Stamford Bridge this season.Arteta will also have fewer attacking options to choose from, with Raheem Sterling unable to feature for the Gunners in West London.Why can’t Raheem Sterling play for Arsenal against Chelsea?Raheem Sterling will be unable to feature for Arsenal against Chelsea this weekend due to the terms of his Deadline Day move to the Emirates.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe winger joined the Gunners on a season-long loan after falling out-of-favour with new Blues boss Enzo Maresca.Due to the move being a temporary one, Sterling will not be eligible to face his parent side, according to Premier League rules.This also rules the 29-year-old out of the return fixture between the two rivals at the Emirates on March 15, 2025.Since his arrival, Sterling has struggled for a consistent run in the Arsenal side, having played just 123 minutes in the Premier League this season.Most read in FootballHowever, the winger is off the mark for his new club, scoring in the 5-1 Carabao Cup win over Bolton in September.How to watch Chelsea vs ArsenalChelsea vs Arsenal will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event/Premier League.You can live stream the match via the NOW/Sky Sports app.Alternatively, SunSport will provide minute-by-minute coverage of the huge clash at Stamford Bridge. More

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    Former Premier League star announces shock retirement aged 37 as fans hail ‘real legend’

    A FORMER Premier League icon has announced his retirement from professional football.Ex-Liverpool cult hero Ryan Babel has hung up his boots at the age of 37.Former Liverpool star Ryan Babel has retired from professional footballCredit: PA:Empics SportThe cult hero has played for some of Europe’s top clubsCredit: GettyThe 69-time Netherlands international has called it quits after playing his last professional game for Turkish side Eyuspor back in 2023.Taking to social media, Babel announced that it was time to bring an end to his career that has seen him play for the likes of Liverpool, Galatasaray and Ajax. He wrote: “As I look back on my career it feels surreal to think about how far I have come. “From my early days at Ajax to playing for some of the biggest clubs in Europe, it’s been a journey full of unforgettable moments.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I’ve been fortunate enough to play with and against some of the best players in the world and I have learned and grown in ways I never imagined.”Football has been more than just a job, it’s been a way of life: the discipline, the sacrifice, the passion, the glory and even the pain have all played a part in my development both on and off the field.”I am filled with gratitude for this amazing journey I have had. Football gave me everything I dreamed of and so much more. “Thank you to all my teammates, coaches, fans and even the media who have been part of this incredible adventure. This game will forever be in my heart. Thank you.”Most read in FootballBabel enjoyed three spells with Ajax after graduating from the club’s academyCredit: GettyThe Dutchman represented his nation 69 timesCredit: ReutersRyan Babel’s careerA brief look into an Ryan Babel’s career…CLUB CAREER2004 – 2007: Ajax2007 – 2011: Liverpool2011 – 2012: Hoffenheim2012 – 2013: Ajax2013 – 2015: Kasimpasa2015 – 2016: Al-Ain2016 – 2017: Deportivo La Coruna2017 – 2019: Besiktas2019: Fulham2019 – 2022: Galatasaray2020: Ajax (loan)2022 – 2023: EyupsporINTERNATIONAL CAREERCaps: 69Goals: 10Assists: 9Debut: March 26, 2005 vs RomaniaFinal game: March 30, 2021 vs Gibraltar FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBabel managed 146 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 22 times and registering 18 assists.While he also played 47 Champions League games for the Reds, Ajax, Besiktas and Galatasaray – scoring nine times in Europe’s elite competition.Steven Gerrard mercilessly BOOED by Al-Ettifaq fans after losing local derby with Liverpool legend on brink of sackBabel also had a brief spell at Fulham during the latter stages of his career, playing under both Claudio Ranieri and Scott Parker.On the International stage, Babel represented the Netherlands 69 times, making the squad for both the 2006 and 2010 World Cups.The fan favourite retires having won two Eredivisie titles, two Dutch cups, one Turkish league title and one Turkish super cup.Fans have hailed the hero online following his announcement. One wrote: “Congratulations on an amazing career!”While another added: “Literally one of the best wingers I saw play for Liverpool”.And a third labelled Babel as a “real legend”.Babel returned to the Premier League with Fulham in 2019Credit: Getty Images – Getty More

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    Inside Mike Tyson’s feud with gangster boxer that ended in street fight and Donald Trump saving pal’s career

    MIKE TYSON will have celebrated the result of the US Presidential election.And now returning White House resident Donald Trump will be cheering Iron Mike on, nearly 40 years after saving the boxer’s fight career.Mike Tyson and Mitch Green fought in May 1986 at Madison Square GardenCredit: GettyTwo years later, Green was left a mess after a street brawl between the pairCredit: GettyTyson thought he had killed his rival on the streetCredit: GettyTyson, 58, steps back into the ring on Friday night in Texas for one of the biggest fights of the year.But his bout with YouTuber-turn-boxer Jake Paul is a far cry from the heady heights of his reign as the heavyweight champion of the world.In fact, it bears more of a resemblance to his dust-up with Mitch “Blood” Green on the streets of New York.Tyson officially fought Green inside the ring in May 1986.READ MORE ON MIKE TYSONThe bout was arranged at the last minute after Tyson was taken the full distance for the first time by James Tillis on May 3 after 19 previous knockouts from his 19 pro fights.Still aged only 19, he fought Green at Madison Square Garden just 17 days later on May 20.Remarkably, Green – seven inches taller – was above Tyson in the WBC rankings.And he was furious that Tyson was getting a purse worth $250,000 – compared to his paltry $30,000.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSo much so that Green threatened to pull out of the fight the day before – only to be reminded that a win would give him a shot at becoming world champion. The fight eventually did go ahead and for the second time in his career – and the second time in just a few weeks – Tyson’s opponent heard the final bell.When I met Mike Tyson his hands looked like BRICKS… I don’t see how he can lose to Jake PaulBut as with Tillis, Green lost via a unanimous points decision.That proved to be one of Iron Mike’s 13 professional fights and wins in a busy 1986.The final one, in Las Vegas on November 22, saw him crowned the youngest heavyweight world champion in boxing history. But it was Tyson’s second and unofficial fight with Green that is arguably far more famous and iconic. As well as his career as a journeyman 19-6-1-1 boxer, Green was involved in gangs from an early age.He had been shot twice when he was 17 – once through the wrist and once slashing the side of his head.And when he moved to New York, he rose up to gang leader of the Black Spades.JAKE PAUL VS MIKE TYSON: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE BOUTTwo years on from their original fight, Tyson and Green’s intense feud had continued. And it reached boiling point in an incident at approximately 4am on August 23, 1988.Green became aware that Tyson was in the Harlem area of New York to collect some clothes from Dapper Dan’s store.That was within the Black Spades’ turf and so Green used that as an excuse to actively go looking for his rival for a second showdown, still bitter about the money from 1986. Iron Mike, by then the dominant undisputed heavyweight world champ aged 22, had been out drinking and clubbing and was collecting his $850 customised white leather jacket when he was confronted by a topless Green who stormed into the shop.Tyson claims he tried to de-escalate the situation and alleged he eloquently warned Green: “Now, Mitch, you must consider what you are doing. I do not think that this course of action in the long run is advantageous for your health. “You’ll remember that I already vanquished you when we met in the ring. You need to proceed to the nearest exit immediately.”It is unclear exactly how things unfolded from there with various versions of events – but the pair certainly got into a street brawl.Green allegedly ripped Tyson’s shirt pocket, then the world champ turned his rings around to prevent them from getting damaged and thumped his enemy. JAKE PAUL VS MIKE TYSON: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE BOUTAfter reportedly putting Blood down with a “roundhouse kick on his a***”, Tyson tried to get away with his driver – but Green retaliated with a kick to the testicles. Tyson again had Green on the floor but before pulling away, the driver noticed Green was under the Rolls-Royce’s wheels.He then got up and ripped off a wing mirror – prompting a furious Tyson to end the fight once and for all with his signature uppercut.Eventually the pair both ended up in hospital.But Tyson was worried he had sent Green to the mortuary instead.Speaking on his Hotboxin’ podcast, the Baddest Man On The Planet said: “I went to Dapper Dan earlier that day at 11am, 12pm, we went partying and drinking then drove all the way back to get my clothes.”We were all laughing, having a ball. My back is turned, everyone is laughing and then all of a sudden everybody stopped laughing and I turned around and Mitch Green is there.”He started talking like, ‘What the f*** are you doing in my hood?'”He was talking a lot. He ripped my pockets so that’s why I started punching him.”We fought in the street. It was real quick. I dropped him a couple of times but he was high on angel dust [PCP] so he couldn’t get up.”Boom! I knock him cold and then he gets back up. “I’m in the car, I’m tired because I’m a bit overweight and I’m drunk then I was like, ‘F*** I’ve hurt my hand.'”He rushes to my Rolls-Royce, breaks off the side mirror. He was bleeding.Counting down to Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson…READ MORE on all the build-up to the massive clash in Texas on Netflix…”I got out the car and hit Mitch.“My signature punch, the right uppercut. Boom! Mitch went flying into the air and came down like a ragdoll, right on his head.”He went down, hit the concrete and he was out – I got scared because he didn’t move after his head hit the concrete. “I ran. I thought I’d killed him, I was so scared.”Unsurprisingly, Green’s injuries were worse, needing five stitches in his face and his eye closed up.But Tyson did not walk away unscathed. He suffered a hairline fracture in his right hand. The broken hand threw his lucrative blockbuster fight with Frank Bruno at Wembley into jeopardy. And it had to be postponed when it became clear he could not lace up the gloves and defend his belts.Instead, none other than businessman Donald Trump stepped in as Tyson’s advisor and helped seal the negotiations for a new date. And the now-President secured a deal which saw Tyson beat Bruno by fifth round TKO in Las Vegas in February 1989 – six months after the scrap on the street.Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson’s lifestyles comparedONE is a notorious YouTuber-turned-boxer who has taken the sport by storm.The other terrorised all in the ring in the 1980s and 1990s, famously biting the ear off an opponent in one fight.Iron Mike has rebuilt his life after squandering a £300m fortune with a cannabis empire, and is a huge advocate of the drug.And as Paul has continued to rise up the ranks, he has splashed the cash on a fleet of amazing cars.Whereas Tyson had more money than sense until a £15m debt saw him part with his cherished car collection.Paul now lives in a plush mansion worth £13m in Puerto Rico, after escaping his hectic life in LA.But these days, Tyson lounges in his Vegas property he paid £2.5m for with wife Lakiha, who he married in 2009. Paul is not yet married but is smitten with his speed skater girlfriend  Jutta Leerdam. She will be by his side when her man puts his 9-1 boxing record on the line against two-time heavyweight champ Tyson on July 20.Read more: Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson’s lifestyles compared, from The Problem Child’s £13m mansion to Iron Mike’s huge cannabis empire.That was not the end of the war between Tyson and Green, though. Just days after the street fight that had left them both nursing injuries, it is claimed Green cycled past Tyson while out on a date and the pair faced off once again.But the argument was calmed down by Tyson’s date before it escalated into more violent fisticuffs. Green refused to let the spat slide and in 1997 tried suing Tyson for $25million – nine years after the Dapper Dan’s dust-up. In the end, though, he was awarded just $45,000 in court, not even enough to cover his legal fees.But Green still left the courthouse smug and reportedly shouted: “I’m the winner, I whupped him,” as he inflicted one more blow in their 11-year war. READ MORE SUN STORIESAs for Tyson, he undoubtedly got the better of Green, coming out on top in both their licenced and unofficial scraps and enjoying far more success in the ring overall.But Green will know deep down he did manage to leave a stain of his own on Iron Mike.Green was involved in gangs in New York and led the Black SpadesCredit: GettyThe scrap took place outside Dapper Dan’s in New YorkCredit: GettyGreen sued Tyson in 1997 but his winnings did not cover the legal feesCredit: AP:Associated PressTyson was taken the full distance by Green in their 1986 fightCredit: GettyGreen towered over Tyson by seven inches but was ultimately beatenCredit: GettyWithin a few months of beating Green, Tyson became world championCredit: GettyDonald Trump helped keep Tyson’s career on track by renegotiating the Frank Bruno boutCredit: APThe businessman replaced Bill Cayton in the Tyson teamCredit: GettyThe broken hand Iron Mike sustained delayed his fight with Frank BrunoCredit: AFP More