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      England’s Euro 2024 heroes in line to bank £1BILLION if they beat Spain as Southgate’s HUGE bonus is revealed

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      ENGLAND’S superstar players are in line to bank £1billion if they beat Spain tonight — with boss Gareth Southgate already making £2million for getting them there.The Three Lions coach celebrated wildly on Wednesday when Ollie Watkins set up the historic clash with a last minute winner in the semi-final against the Netherlands.Harry Kane is hoping to lead England to their first Euros trophyCredit: Paul EdwardsEngland manager Gareth Southgate has already got half of his huge bonus just for making it to the finalCredit: GettyTrent Alexander-Arnold trains for the Euros final against SpainCredit: PAIt sealed a bumper bonus for wily strategist Southgate, who has defied his critics to lead England to a second successive Euros final.The Sun told last month he would get a £4million bonus if England won the tournament — and now we can reveal he has already got half of that just for making it to the final.Meanwhile, a win for England in Berlin would mean the players could earn a combined £1billion during their careers from increased wages and megabucks endorsement deals.Brands expert Marcel Knobil said: “Winning the Euros would make England close to being a billion-pound team in terms of future earnings.”READ MORE ON EUROS FINALThe earnings league is likely to be topped by Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham, 21, whose brand looks certain to outstrip even David Beckham’s, raking him in £400million.And part of that could even be down to his cheeky crotch-grabbing celebration after scoring a last-gasp bicycle kick in the last 16 match against Slovakia.His antics led to a Uefa investigation, a suspended match ban and a £27,000 fine. But it could boost his appeal as it demonstrated super-confident swagger.Marcel said: “Jude has all the ingredients to overtake Beckham’s £372million by the end of his career. Most read in Euro 2024″He could be looking at £50million earnings annually with his Real Madrid salary plus sponsorships and endorsements.“That amasses into the hundreds of millions.Bukayo Saka breaks silence on amazing reaction to Watkins’ Netherlands winning goal to fire England into Euro 2024 final“Jude will need the same business acumen and longevity of his playing career as Beckham. “But he is right at the top of the world game from such a young age and is on a trajectory similar to Ronaldo. He’s got everything.”Elsewhere, a further £100million would be picked up by each of Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Kobbie Mainoo, experts predict. They would be put on a pedestal and enjoy celebrity status for the rest of their lives, just like England’s 1966 World Cup-winners.And they would be able to increase their salaries by about £50,000 a week — adding up to £25million each in wages alone over ten years of top-tier football for the younger stars.Meanwhile, England’s stars, who include Trent Alexander-Arnold, Conor Gallagher and Marc Guehi, have bonded into a battling band of brothers at their Euro 2024 base in Germany after a shaky start sealed their resolve.Southgate’s team-building skillsThe team struggled to impress in the early stages, despite topping their qualifying group.But insiders revealed Southgate’s team-building skills came to the fore as he brought the group together.Fun, and noise, inside their camp at the Weimarer Golf Resort and Spa in Blankenhain grew along with their belief as they made their way to the final.A source told The Sun on Sunday: “There was a little concern about how quiet it was in there at first. Other teams hosted by the hotel make a lot more noise.“But that seems to be Gareth Southgate’s style — he keeps his boys very calm and focused and brings them closer together.Jude has all the ingredients to overtake Beckham’s £372million by the end of his careerBrands expert Marcel Knobil“Lots of creature comforts were installed alongside all of the training equipment, including a big TV screen beside the pool so they could relax while watching games and their favourite shows.READ MORE SUN STORIES“They loved mountain biking on the trails and getting out on the resort’s three golf courses.“It was very noticeable how they seemed to relax and become more of a family and really began enjoying themselves between games.Conor Gallagher and Marc Guehi have a laugh in trainingCredit: GettyLion cubs staying up for a treatBEDTIME will be put on hold for a legion of young England fans tonight.Alex Naughton, five, from Manchester, will be among the little Lions hoping to stay up long enough to roar the team onto victory.He said: “I’ve been told I can stay up late and eat ice cream.” Jude, five, from Locksbottom, Kent, will also be hoping for a goal from namesake “hero” Jude Bellingham when he watches with brothers Frank, eight, and two-year-old Jasper.And Roxy and Bobby Wicks, aged ten and six, are big Phil Foden fans. The siblings, from Gorleston-on-Sea, Norfolk, said: “We love Phil Foden and can’t wait to see him score in the final.”Jude, 5, with brothers Frank, 8, and two-year-old JasperExcited Alex Naughton, 5, from ManchesterRoxy and Bobby Wicks, aged ten and six, are huge Phil Foden fans More

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      Thank you England for reminding a bruised, battered, self-doubting nation, reeling from years of division of who we are

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      IT is not coming home because it is here already – a national mood of euphoria, optimism and hope.“The best feeling — ever!” gasped Ollie Watkins, describing the moment he saw the ball bobbing in the back of the Dutch net with 91 minutes on the clock in the semi-final of the Euros.England have reminded the nation of who we are in their run to the Euro 2024 finalCredit: GettyFans around the country have been brought together by Gareth Southgate and his never-say-die teamCredit: AFPWe know the feeling, Ollie.Because Gareth Southgate and the beautiful boys of ­summer have lifted the mood of this country.In less than a month, they have given us a reason to believe.In England. In our country. In ourselves.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAnd tonight there is now the very good chance that England’s men will win their first football trophy for 58 years.Tonight we can fulfil our footballing destiny.Tonight those three little words — it’s coming home! — will lose their wistful sense of plaintive longing and become glorious reality.Tonight there will be — I have always believed — a ­national reset.Most read in Euro 2024That would be joy unbound, for sure — but there is more.To be a fan of the national team of our national game is to carry with you a sense of ­fatalism.Honey the eagle predicts the result of the Euro 2024 finalAnd it does not matter if you are aged eight or 80.That nagging doubt about England is true of children whose first tournament saw England stumble at the last hurdle against Italy in the Euros final three years ago.Incredible squadAnd it is true of the first generation to sing “Football’s Coming Home” in 1996 — all those Oasis-loving lads who are now settling into middle age.And it is true of those of us who remember the boys of summer in 1966.That golden July day — undoubtedly the highlight of my childhood — has been ­followed by 58 years of failure.Until now.I took the job to try to improve English footballGareth SouthgateUntil Gareth Southgate and his incredible squad ripped up the rule book.“I took the job to try to improve English football,” Southgate said in his calm, quiet way after the semi-final against the Dutch.Can anyone doubt him? He is, without question, the ­greatest England manager since Sir Alf Ramsey. And the most beloved.And the flak he has received in Germany has been unforgivable.This quiet, decent and successful England manager has been booed, had beer chucked at him, and been torn apart by all those players- turned-pundits who are labouring under the delusion that THEY are still the big story.But no — it is Gareth ­Southgate’s world today.England are off to face Spain in Berlin’s Olympic stadium tonight — tonight! — for their second successive Euros final, and their first on foreign soil.Already this squad are ­history boys.Already they have taken us to somewhere we have never been before.Tonight they step over the line, and into sporting immortality.Some of the criticism aimed at Gareth has been inevitable.This is a man of caution, and loyalty, and reflection. But his substitutions work.Southgate is a winnerAnd — as Ollie Watkins proved as he stepped into ­history — they work brilliantly.Gareth Southgate gets far more criticism than he deserves because he is totally unlike the image of a Premier League manager that we see week in, week out — apoplectic with rage, eyes ­bulging with outrage, teeth bared with fury that a throw-in went the wrong way.That is not Southgate. He is too much the typical reticent Englishman to act like that.But this quiet, decent man is a winner — never doubt it for a second.And, yes, he is loved — loved in a way that cold, distant Sir Alf was never loved.Other England managers — Bobby Robson, Terry “El Tel” Venables — were liked, and even revered.But Gareth Southgate is on a different level.Tonight he seals his place in the pantheon of great British icons.Southgate and his squad have lit up this summer.We have the greatest substitutes’ bench that England have ever seenTonyWe don’t talk about a golden generation any more — because England have had too many golden ­generations that were found wanting — but on any objective level, this is the most lavishly talented England squad of all time.It feels like a special, ­precious moment in sporting history — when the 21-year-old Jude Bellingham is playing with the 30-year-old Harry Kane.When an entire raft of world- class talent — Phil Foden, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka — feel close to their prime.And we have the greatest substitutes’ bench that England have ever seen.Mercurial Cole Palmer, ­electric Ollie Watkins, ice man Ivan Toney — players that given their chance will do the ­business.Even if it is for ten minutes, even if it is for one minute.Jude Bellingham and Jordan Pickford celebrate with Southgate after their Semi Final win against the NetherlandsCredit: ©MI News & SportSo many magical moments!Jude Bellingham’s bicycle kick against Slovakia.Jordan Pickford’s penalty save against the Swiss, and his water bottle with a crib sheet of Swiss ­penalty-taking habits.Harry Kane — carrying a back injury, and no spring chicken now — still a goal machine.And — perhaps best of all for the long-suffering England fan — the sight of a perfect penalty shoot-out as Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Ivan Toney — NOT EVEN LOOKING AT THE BALL! — and Trent Alexander-Arnold all scored from the spot against Switzerland.  This does not happen. This is new. This is unprecedented.The England fan of every age is used to having their heart broken come the penalty shoot-out.Chris Waddle and Stuart Pearce in 1990.Gareth Southgate himself in 1996. Harry Kane in Qatar as recently as 2022.They have all known the horror of the scuffed or skied missed ­spot kick.Courage of KaneAnd worst of all was the three young black players — Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho — who missed their penalties in the last Euros final, and were then subjected to vile racist abuse.But there is redemption. We have seen it in brief flashes in the past.When Stuart Pearce scored his penalty against Spain in 1996. When Saka stepped up against the Swiss.In the courage of Kane to never duck a penalty.But this is different. This is not redemption for an individual player.This is redemption for the nation.England have scored all 13 of their penalties — including the shoot-out against the Swiss last weekend — since Harry Kane’s miss against France in the last World Cup.The idea that England always cock it up when it comes to penalties is, quite simply, no longer true.In this England squad, we see ourselvesTonyThis generation of England ­players do not fear the penalty shoot-out.And it matters so much because — this is who we are, isn’t it? This is us — now.A nation finally fulfilling its potential. A nation feeling better about things.A nation coming together after years of sporting hurt, economic agony and political chaos.We even have a Prime Minister who was actually elected!Things are changing. Things are getting better.And in this England squad, we see ourselves.We see ourselves as a nation in that Three Lions squad — in all their glorious diversity, an integration so total and successful that it does not even have to be discussed, it does not need to be talked about, where there are players whose ­family came from the Caribbean and Ireland and Nigeria and more, but they all sing the National Anthem with exactly the same voice.Watch them sing God Save The King tonight and feel the tingle run down your spine.This is who we are now and if there have been some frustrating moments in this tournament, well — that is who we are, too.But we find a way forward. Keep calm and carry on giving the ball to Bukayo Saka.For all the dips in energy levels, there has been so much to applaud, to celebrate, to make you chuck your beer in the air.The resilience of this England team. Their total refusal to ­surrender.Their backs-to-the-wall, never-say-die spirit. Their mental strength.Their bottle.Could football be coming home after 58 years? Get this free giant football posterComing from behind again and again and again.And I can’t help it — I think of Dunkirk, and I think of the Blitz, and I see flashes of a people who have not been invaded for one thousand years.But the old songs undoubtedly are changing now.All those England anthems about World War Two, The Great Escape and The Dambusters March, are making way for a 21st Century remix of Hey Jude and Phil Foden’s On Fire, sung to the tune of Springsteen’s Dancing In The Dark.Given your all and given so much“Phil Foden’s on fire — going to play the Germans off the park . . .”And tonight England face Spain as underdogs and, yes, it will be the best feeling ever if we can win.But we are proud of them already.Thank you, Gareth Southgate. Thank you, Three Lions.You have given your all, and you have given so much, and you have reminded a bruised, battered, self-doubting nation, reeling from years of division and despair, of exactly who we are.And it is a good feeling.Suddenly, this summer, we feel like a land that is healing.Suddenly we feel like a country that is comfortable in its own skin.All at once we feel like a nation where there are good, even glorious times ahead.READ MORE SUN STORIESWe are far more than the world gives us credit for.And tonight you’re going to believe us.Gareth Southgate revealed he wanted to ‘improve English football’ as manager – he’s done just thatCredit: Getty More

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      England legend Paul Ince praises diversity of Euro 2024 squad – and reveals his prediction for score in Sunday’s final

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      ENGLAND great Paul Ince has praised the diversity of the Euros squad — highlighting  quarter-final goal hero Bukayo Saka. The 58-year-old, the only black player in the Euro ’96 starting line-up, also applauded Three Lions fans for helping expose the racists who have abused Gareth Southgate’s squad.England great Paul Ince has praised the diversity of the Euros squad, above with his son Thomas InceCredit: The TimesEzri Konsa, Jude Bellingham, Ollie Watkins and Marc Guehi celebrate together following the semi-final victory over the NetherlandsCredit: GettyInce was the only non-white player in England’s Euro 96 teamCredit: Offside SportsAhead of tonight’s final against Spain, Ince said: “Saka, for such a young lad, has performed very well for England. “There’s always going to be a few idiots who are going to criticise, and make racist remarks.“That’s the society we live in, you’ll never change that.“Everyone’s got to get behind the team. It’s a fantastic occasion for everyone, including the fans.”READ MORE ON EURO 2024Meanwhile, he is backing England to lift the trophy in Berlin tonight.The former Manchester United ace told The Sun on Sunday in an exclusive interview: “We’ve got a chance of making history. Maybe it’s aligned with the stars. Maybe it’s our time. I honestly believe it.“I’ve got this feeling again with this team. It’s our time. It’s so overdue. “Let’s win and forget the hoodoo of 58 years without a major trophy. I’ve had enough of the ‘Football’s Coming Home’ tag.”Most read in Euro 2024On tackling racism, Ince said: “Credit to Saka and Marcus Rashford who have come out of that horrible situation in the last final and moved on with their careers.“The FA and Professional Footballers’ Association, managers, players, and the media have done so much to try and out these people and educate that we won’t tolerate this type of discrimination against all different creeds and colours.Sven-Göran Eriksson’s Rallying Cry for England“The message is getting out there. Would I like to go a bit quicker? Yes, I would. But the good thing for me now is that fans are outing their own fans.“You’re not getting away with these remarks and insults.”The midfielder recalled the hullabaloo around the build-up to Euro ’96, when the players let their hair down with a drinking game in Hong Kong after warm-up matches.He said: “When I hear Jude Bellingham talking about the siege mentality within the ranks. I totally get that. “We were getting slaughtered in 1996 from all corners, so there was that siege mentality within the camp. Today’s team can do the same.”Ince said nothing would change the way his old England and Middlesbrough team-mate Gareth Southgate prepared for the final — despite getting flak early on.’Chance of making history’He added: “Does it really matter now? No, because we’ve got a chance of making history. “That’s the good thing about it. All the criticism won’t bother Gareth.“He’s one of those really calm people. He doesn’t let things fluster him. He knows that as soon as you take the job you’re going to be out there for criticism.“Southy has been in the job long enough now, for eight years. It’s just water off a duck’s back. People are always going to have an opinion, that’s the great thing about football.“But Gareth has changed. At the World Cup, he would never take Harry Kane off.“We’ve seen a different side to Southgate where he’s now prepared to make those changes. Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins have come on and made a difference.“Gareth has tried to make changes to benefit the side.”Ince said of preparations for the 8pm clash: “Gareth and the players will be chilled. You’ve got to try and relax the players. “We did a lot of fun games, racing nights, just not focusing too much on the job in hand.We’ve seen a different side to Southgate where he’s now prepared to make those changesPaul Ince“That will come tonight once they walk into that stadium.“It’s important the senior players recognise anyone who’s worried. Everyone’s going to be nervous.“It’s hard not to show. A little bit of nerves is good.”The player-turned-pundit, who managed teams including Blackburn Rovers and Reading, said: “It’s sad if you think about the 58 years since we’ve won a major trophy.“Think about the generations of retired footballers — Bryan Robson, Kevin Keegan, Paul Scholes, Steven Gerrard. “Great, great players like Paul Gascoigne and Alan Shearer. Yes, we’ve been unlucky along the way but it’s sad for us as a nation.“But the pressure today might come from the fact we lost to the Italians in the last Euros final. That would be more on the players’ minds than anything else.“Spain tonight is just another game. History makers? I don’t think that will be going anywhere near their minds.“We have to peak. We’re probably playing the best team in the tournament in Spain. Their style of football has got past the Germans, and the French.’England will win’“There haven’t been that many outstanding games in the tournament. The quality of the Euros hasn’t ultimately been great.“England have underperformed but we’ve still managed to reach the finals, which is a great thing for us. “We’ve shown a lot of character, going down and coming back. We’ve had a bit of luck, too. It’s about coming together.”Ince, who was too nervous to watch the Euro ’96 penalty shoot-out, said he was much calmer now.He will watch the game, glass of white wine in hand, at home with his wife. He said: “All my mates said to come to the pub but I said absolutely no chance — I want to watch it in peace.READ MORE SUN STORIES“At least if I’m watching it, nervous and jumping around, I don’t look like an idiot like I would if I’m watching it in the pub.”And his score prediction. “I think England will win 2-1,” he said.England’s Bukayo Saka celebrates after scoring in the 80th minute against Switzerland in the quarter finalsCredit: Getty More

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      King Charles joins Idris Elba and army of Sun readers to back the Three Lions ahead of Euro 2024 final against Spain

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      KING Charles has joined the army of Sun readers sending their support to the Three Lions ahead of the Euros final.It came as it was confirmed last night that Prince William would fly to Germany for the match.Idris Elba and King Charles show their support for the Three Lions ahead of the Euros finalCredit: PAKing Charles, Idris Elba and guests take time out from knife talks to back Three LionsCredit: PACharles — along with acting star Idris Elba — posed with an England shirt at St James’s Palace yesterday to show his support for the Three Lions. It came after he joked it would be better for the nation’s health if England did not leave it so late to clinch victory again.His Majesty, 75, said in a message to the team after Wednesday’s  last-minute semi-final victory over the Dutch: “My wife and I join all our family in wishing you the warmest congratulations on reaching the final of the UEFA European Championship — and in sending our very best wishes for Sunday’s match.“If I may encourage you to secure victory before the need for any last minute wonder-goals or another penalties drama, I am sure the stresses on the nation’s collective heart rate and blood pressure would be greatly alleviated! Good luck, England.” READ MORE ON EUROS FINALWilliam, who is president of the FA,  was in the crowd for the Denmark group match and the dramatic win on penalties against Switzerland in the quarter-final. He was seen fist-pumping the air in celebration after the shoot-out.Meanwhile, a legion of Sun readers added their voices to back England to go all the way and bring the trophy home.Jordan Pickford fan Jackson Reed, eight, said: “Second time lucky boys, we believe in you!” Ivan Jones wrote: “Good luck Gareth. Don’t leave it too late this time. I’ve got no nails left.” Most read in Euro 2024Thomas Cooper said: “I’ve followed England my whole life and never have I been prouder to be English. I’ve always believed in you Gareth  even when you missed that penalty at Euro 96.”But all is forgiven as you and the lads have given me the best times over the years you have been manager.”Sven-Göran Eriksson’s Rallying Cry for England Tony Rimmington said: “Good luck. One last push lads and it’s home.” And Sylvia Turner added: “Good luck England and Gareth. Hope you win. You have given us back a brighter summer on the edge of our seats. Bring it home lads.” Harry Singleton, from Ashton-under-Lyne, Gtr Manchester, said: “Two weeks ago, lots of fans wanted Gareth Southgate to be beheaded. Win the game England on the return to our shores it will be ‘arise Sir Gareth Southgate’.” Nora Kent, from Eton Wick, Berkshire, wrote: “What a cracking team these young men have turned out to be under Gareth’s guidance. Good luck, the nation is behind you willing you on to the last minute of play.”Helen and Peter Bennison offered a poem: “Good Luck and do you best. With Three Lions on your Chest. Wear your vest with pride. And sweep the Spaniards aside.” And Christopher Harris said: “Good luck to the Three Lions on Sunday. It’s written in the stars we will win. “Last time we won a major trophy, the World Cup in 1966 Labour were in power. Guess what? They are back in power, so come on, it’s your time to win.” One’s top pal IdrisTHE King and actor Idris Elba get shirty to show their support for the Three Lions — while urging  the Government to  help tackle youth  knife crime.Charles invited the star, plus  PM Sir Keir Starmer and youngsters, to  St James’s Palace to discuss the violence problem.His King’s Trust has been working with Idris’s  Hope Foundation  to support teens. Charles said he would be  “watching and hoping for progress”   from the new Government.Idris, 51, said governments  past and present  have been willing to listen  but “right now is a moment for change, not talk”.In a lighter moment ahead of tomorrow’s massive game, they posed with the younger guests as they all held England tops. More

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      From football shirts to wigs and even pyjamas – how to bag bargain England merch ahead of Euro 2024 final

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      SHOW your support for England tomorrow night by decking the halls in red, white and blue.You might have got this far in the Euros without investing in footie tat – but the final  is the time to go all out.These pyjamas, were £9.80, now £4.20, Tu at Sainsbury’s – find out below where you can get the rest of the merchGoogle says searches for “football shirts” are up 798 per cent since England’s win against the Netherlands on Wednesday, while the shops are awash with Euros paraphernalia.You can score a shirt that doesn’t cost a fortune and have a ball at home with bargain paper plates, cups, decorations, wigs and hats. So you don’t miss a sitter, Abby McHale reveals where to get Eur own party favourites for the footie – come on England! Adult T-shirt, was £19.99, now £17.99, DecathlonCredit: SuppliedSunglasses, £7.99, AmazonCredit: SuppliedCake, £13, TescoCredit: Oliver DixonBabygrow, £12, George at AsdaCredit: SuppliedBlow up hammer, £5.99, AmazonCredit: SuppliedWig, £9.99, AmazonCredit: SuppliedStraws, £1.50, B&MCredit: SuppliedBunting, £1.50, B&MCredit: SuppliedHat, £13.99, AmazonCredit: SuppliedHat, £1.25, PoundlandCredit: SuppliedHead boppers, £2.50, PeacocksPlates, £2 for 20, all B&MCredit: SuppliedScarf, £11.99, AmazonCredit: SuppliedCups, £2 for 20, B&MCredit: SuppliedTablecloth, £1.25, PoundlandCredit: SuppliedEuros final weather forecast revealed by Met Office – with Brits to bask in 24C sunshine as they cheer on Three Lions More

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      Euro 2024 final blow for Spain as teen goal sensation Lamine Yamal BARRED from playing should game go to extra-time

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      SPAIN’S teenage goal sensation Lamine Yamal is barred under German child labour laws from playing during extra-time in tomorrow’s final, The Sun can reveal.Under-18s cannot work after 11pm on a Sunday so if the game is not over in normal time Spain would have to sub him, or face a fine of €30,000 (£25,000).Spain’s teenage goal sensation Lamine Yamal could be kicked off the field if the Euro final against England goes into extra-timeCredit: AFPEngland fans are hoping the authorities make an example of the dangerous Barcelona star, 17 today.His left-foot curler against France helped his country clinch their final spot as well as making him the youngest player to score in the Euros. Bradley Richardson, 26, of Gosforth, Newcastle, said: “He’s excellent but the law’s the law. “I think we can beat Spain regardless but there’s no harm in asking the Germans to do us a favour.”READ MORE ON SPAIN V ENGLANDAnd Jack Nicholson, 17, of Bishop Auckland, Co Durham, added: “The Germans need to enforce their law. It’s only fair.”A German trade union and a legal expert confirmed Yamal should be subbed after 90 minutes of the game, which starts at 9pm local time — 8pm in UK.Lukas Frew, from German union Verdi, said: “There are exceptions for 16 and 17-year-olds but, theoretically, even then they wouldn’t be allowed to work after 11pm.” Lawyer Jonas Warnken said: “Yamal may only play until 11pm.” He added that a fine for violations was possible, but unlikely.Most read in Euro 2024Lamine Yamal explains cheeky message he did in Spain v France Euro 2024 match More

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      Inside the incredible worlds of teen sensations Kobbie Mainoo and Lamine Yamal, as they go head to head for Euros glory

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      WHEN Cristiano Ronaldo made his Euros debut in 2004 neither Spaniard Lamine Yamal nor Englishman Kobbie Mainoo had been born.Tomorrow the two exciting teenagers will face each other in the final of Euro 2024 in Berlin.Stats show Mainoo has the best pass accuracy for a midfielder in the history of the European Championship, at 96 per cent – making him key to England’s hopesCredit: GettyEven before Lamine Yamal’s wonder goal for Spain in the semi-finals, Barcelona had already set a billion-euro price tag on the talented youngsterCredit: GettyBoth have set the football world alight with a string of dazzling displays for their countries. Here we take a look at the teens playing for kicks . . . KOBBIE MAINOO, 19ALL dressed in replica England shirts bearing the number 26, Kobbie Mainoo’s family beamed with pride after England’s semi-final victory.Just a year ago Mainoo still had not made a league start for his club side Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyAnd so they should — at the beginning of the Euros the 19-year-old central midfielder was not in manager Gareth Southgate’s starting XI.Yet, he is going to be key to England’s hopes of lifting the trophy for the first time tomorrow night having become the team’s most reliable passer.READ MORE ON ENGLAND V SPAINWaiting for debutStats from Opta show Mainoo has the best pass accuracy for a midfielder in the history of the European Championship, at 96 per cent.But just a year ago Mainoo still had not made a league start for his club side Manchester United.At the time, the most famous Mainoo was his half-brother Jordan Mainoo-Hames, who appeared on the ITV reality show Love Island.But in the past year, Mainoo made a name for himself by winning the FA Cup, scoring a wonder goal against United’s rivals Liverpool and getting called up by Southgate.Most read in Euro 2024After his debut for England in March, the manager said: “You cannot believe he has taken everything in his stride like he has.”Lamine Yamal explains cheeky message he did in Spain v France Euro 2024 match But even Mainoo could not contain his excitement on Wednesday after winning in Dortmund against the Dutch, joining his mum and dad in the crowd after the match.Like Spain’s Lamine Yamal, Mainoo’s talents were spotted at an early age.Born in Stockport, Gtr Manchester, in April 2005, he moved to the town’s Cheadle Hulme suburb.There he played for Cheadle and Gatley Junior Football Club aged four, before being scouted by Man United and Man City aged six.Steve Vare, his first coach at Cheadle and Gatley, told The Sun: “He came from a lovely family. I used to have regular chats with his dad.”A lifelong Red, young Kobbie opted for United.Normally, youth players join the scholarship scheme aged 13 or 14, but Mainoo came in at 11 years old.Injuries hampered his progression to the first team, but once Mainoo got over them he starred in manager Erik ten Hag’s starting line-up.His level-headed parents have made sure the youngster does not go off the rails.Mainoo said: “At home with the family I have around me, they very much keep me grounded and nothing changes at home.”Dad Felix, who is divorced from Kobbie’s mum Abena Herold, has guided much of his career.A young Kobbie relaxes in a Manchester United shirtCredit: https://www.instagram.com/kobbie/The star’s family and friends rush to support the talented teenCredit: GettyLives in £370k homeHe could not hide his pride when he saw a young United fan wearing a replica Mainoo shirt at Wembley Stadium before the FA Cup final. Felix asked the boy: “Is that your favourite player? He’s my son.”Mainoo lives with his dad in a £370,000 semi-detached home in Cheadle Hulme, despite earning £20,000 a week.He also spends time with his mum and sisters Ama and Efia. Mainoo is believed to be single and unlike his teammates was not sharing any kisses in the stands in Dortmund after the semi-final. Instead he is focusing on his football and keeping in touch with his old pals.I do know Kobbie is still in contact with his old school friends. He hasn’t lost sight of the fact he is very groundedSteve Vare, Kobbie’s first coach at Cheadle and GatleyCoach Steve added: “I do know Kobbie is still in contact with his old school friends. He hasn’t lost sight of the fact he is very grounded.”Fans will be grateful that Mainoo chose to play for the country of his birth, rather than that of his parents, who are originally from Ghana.The African nation tried to encourage him to join their team, but Mainoo said: “As a kid you always dream of playing for England.” Kobbie’s rise has been so rapid that he has not had time to take in his enormous progress. He said: “It happened quick. But I’ve been taking it day by day, game by game. And now we’re in the final.”That will all change if England defeat Spain in Berlin tomorrow night — after that he will be a hero forever.LAMINE YAMAL, 17EVEN before Lamine Yamal scored a wonder goal for Spain in the semi-finals, his club Barcelona had placed a billion-euro price tag on the youngster.Barcelona have been nurturing Yamal’s talents for more than a decade and he made his senior debut for the club aged just 15Credit: GettyThe winger was still 16 when he curled a shot into the top corner to knock out France on Tuesday.And he is celebrating his 17th birthday today by preparing to play in tomorrow night’s European Championship final against England.It is an incredible rise for the youngster, who was bathed as a baby by Argentina and Barcelona legend Lionel Messi for a charity calendar.The Spanish giants have been nurturing Yamal’s talents for more than a decade and he made his senior debut for the club aged 15 years, nine months and 16 days.A star is bornHe is so young that he has had to take exams online during the Euros. His dad Mounir Nasraoui is 35 — three years younger than Yamal’s Spanish team-mate Jesus Navas.Mounir’s Instagram account is filled with images of his son, including the one of Messi with the baby Yamal, with the caption: “The beginning of two legends.”But Yamal’s family have not had it easy. His parents used to share his grandmother’s apartment with Yamal, an uncle and four cousins in the city of Mataró on the outskirts of Barcelona.England will be hoping to undermine those Messi comparisons by restricting his goal-scoring opportunities in BerlinDad Mounir split from Yamal’s mum Sheila Ebana, who worked in a fast food outlet, when their son was three.His dad stayed in Mataro and his mum moved to the nearby city of Granollers. Yamal split his time between their homes.With Mounir having been born in Morocco and Sheila in Equatorial Guinea, they had faced hostility in Spain.Standing up to the bigotry got Mounir into trouble when he confronted activists from the anti-immigrant far-right party Vox earlier this year.He was fined £450 in June after allegedly getting into a scuffle with a group who were handing out leaflets in Mataró.But Yamal is a hero in the deprived part of Mataro, called Rocafonda, where he grew up — an area he celebrates when he scores.He draws the number 304 with his hand. They are the final three digits of the suburb’s postcode. Half the population there faces poverty.But for Yamal, it all started on the streets of that suburb.Yamal was bathed as a baby by Argentina and Barcelona legend Lionel Messi for a charity calendarCredit: APYamal pictured with his proud dad earlier in the Euros tournamentCredit: Instagram/hustle_hard_304In an interview with GQ magazine in Spain, Yamal said: “I was always there, I spent the whole day playing, and without picking up my mobile phone. I didn’t stop.“I arrived home dripping with sweat.” The teenager has become a symbol for diversity and he celebrates his African roots by displaying the flags of both Morocco and Equatorial Guinea on his boots.He said: “I’ve visited both countries. In the end my families are my roots. It’s something very important for me.”The contract he signed with Adidas to promote that footwear bought a new house for his grandmother.But even though Yamal is earning a reported £120,000 a month, he still lives at Barcelona’s La Masia youth academy. The club is trying its best to protect him, restricting interviews and disciplining him if he steps out of line.When he played for the national side’s under-17s, he and some team-mates reportedly made prank calls to the team’s psychologist in March 2023.As a result, Barcelona banned him for four games. But according to the Spanish Press, he has found time for romance and has been linked to Spanish influencer Alex Padilla.In the press one day they put you as the new Messi and the next day they say that you have to stop playingLamine YamalYamal’s skill has led many to call him the “new Messi”. But it is a title the youngster himself is wary of, given how many former prodigies have failed to live up to that lofty billing.Yamal said: “In the Press one day they put you as the new Messi and the next day they say that you have to stop playing.”Clearly, though, Barcelona sees him as Lionel’s heir.Yamal signed a three-year contract with them last year, the longest allowed for minors under Spanish law.There is an agreement that the deal will automatically renew until 2030.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut England will be hoping to undermine those Messi comparisons by restricting his goal-scoring opportunities in Berlin tomorrow night. More

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      ‘England can win, believe it!’ – terminally ill ex-boss Sven-Goran Eriksson gives emotional rallying cry to Three Lions

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      SKIPPER Harry Kane can fire England to Euros glory tomorrow, insists Sven-Göran Eriksson.The ex-Three Lions boss says Gareth Southgate’s heroes have the talent to smash Spain in Berlin.Harry Kane can fire England to Euros glory tomorrow, insists terminally ill ex-England boss Sven-Göran ErikssonCredit: APEriksson bossed England from 2001-6 and never took us past the quarter-finals of a major tournament, but believes they can win under Kane and his team-matesCredit: GettyThe Swede, battling pancreatic cancer, urged Gareth Southgate to end 58 years of hurtCredit: GettyPubs can stay open until 1am to toast a first major title on foreign soil, and Sven, 76, told The Sun: “Yes of course England can do it!The Swede, diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, urged Gareth Southgate to end 58 years of hurt and win for ex-Three Lions bosses like himself who never got as close.Speaking exclusively to The Sun Sven, 76, also hailed midfield ace Jude Bellingham as the key to beating Spain and lifting our first major title on foreign soil.Sven bossed England from 2001 to 2006 and never took us past the quarter-finals of a tournament.READ MORE ON ENGLAND V SPAINBut he said: “Gareth has learned from the mistakes we made — handling the mental block of penalties, in particular — and has gone further than any of us ever did.“Now he, his players and the entire nation must know England can win. If you believe in something it can happen, and that includes beating Spain in the final.”Sven believes Southgate’s achievement will trump even that of 1966 World Cup winning boss Sir Alf Ramsey should we triumph at Berlin’s Olympiastadion. We saw the real EnglandSven, who will cheer us on from his home in Sweden, added: “The job of England manager brings with it a beautiful pressure.Most read in Euro 2024“I felt it. Sir Bobby Robson felt it. Every one of the 13 managers since Sir Alf will have felt it.England fans gush ‘my manager’ as incredible footage emerges of Southgate going wild after reaching Euro 2024 final “None of us succeeded, but no one has come closer than Gareth Southgate.“By reaching a World Cup semi-final in 2018, the World Cup ­quarter-final and now a second successive Euros final, Gareth is certainly the best English coach since Sir Alf.“Win in Berlin on Sunday and I believe he should be considered better.”Spain and their wonderkid Lamine Yamal, who turns 17 today, have wowed at the tournament and go into tomorrow night’s final as firm favourites.England are very, very good and they won fairly because they were the better team. Everything looks very possible nowSven-Göran ErikssonBut England’s stars finally began to shine in the 2-1 win against the Netherlands and Sven said: “Last game against Holland they played very, very well especially the first half.“I think we saw the real England in the first half.“If they can repeat that — and I am sure they can — they have a very good chance against Spain.Shoot out boost“But they have to play like that for 90 minutes, 45 minutes as against Holland won’t be enough.“England are very, very good and they won fairly because they were the better team. Everything looks very possible now.” Asked which player would decide the final, Sven said without hesitation: “Jude Bellingham of course — he’d have played in my team.”Sven’s England record was defined by penalty shoot-outs as he was twice beaten by Portugal — in quarter-finals on spot-kicks at Euro 2004, and World Cup 2006.But Southgate’s teams have won three shoot-outs from four — most recently in the Euros quarter-final against Switzerland.Sven, who managed Manchester City from 2007 to 2008, revealed in January he has been suffering pancreatic cancer and was given “about a year” to live.He enjoyed a five-year spell in charge of the Three Lions from 2001 while Southgate was still a player at Aston Villa then Middlesbrough.In his first major tournament, the 2002 World Cup in Japan, Sven’s England lost 2-1 in the quarter-final to ten-man Brazil, the eventual winners.Englan hero Ollie Watkins poses with a group of young fans — and called on them and supporters everywhere to roar us on to glory on SundayCredit: ReutersHarry Kane meets fans ahead of Sunday’s final against SpainCredit: GettyThen came the double exits to Portugal, and he left the role after the 2006 World Cup.In contrast, Southgate, who won 16 of his 57 caps under the Swede, tomorrow leads England to a second major final in three years. Sven predicted: “It will be an open game and I think England have a big, big chance.“And while I have not been feeling well in the past week or so, I will be watching the game from home.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’d love to see England win. So would every one of the managers who has tried and failed to win a major trophy since 1966.“Come on, Gareth. Do what we never could.”OLLIE’S CALL TO ROAR ON THE LIONSBy Nick Parker and Robin PerrieENGLAND hero Ollie Watkins poses with a group of young fans — and called on them and supporters everywhere to roar us on to glory tomorrow.His last minute goal against the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-final sent England to the final against Spain in Berlin.Ollie, 28, said he had had a premonition about it — and has had another about tomorrow, but would not say what it was.But he is feeling confident and said: “I’ve got that fire in my belly ready whenever I’m called upon to come on to the pitch again.”Ollie praised the fans and said: “Their support is everything and they’ve been supporting us so well so far and hopefully they can keep going and be loud for us on Sunday.”He also revealed that every member of the 26-man England squad is planning to have an identical commemorative tattoo inked if they win the trophy. ᐧPubs can stay open until 1am to toast a first major title on foreign soilCredit: Getty More