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      Robert Lewandowski agreed Man Utd transfer because he ‘couldn’t say no’ to Sir Alex Ferguson but move collapsed

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      ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI agreed to join Manchester United after a phone call with Sir Alex Ferguson… before Borussia Dortmund blocked the deal.SunSport exclusively sat down with the Polish striker, 35, as he paid tribute to former manager Jurgen Klopp following his Liverpool farewell.Robert Lewandowski agreed to join Manchester United after two seasons with Borussia DortmundCredit: PA:Press AssociationSir Alex Ferguson convinced Lewandowski to join Man Utd, before Dortmund blocked the dealCredit: GettyLewandowski played under Klopp for four years at Dortmund – where he scored 103 goals in 187 games.But after two seasons he nearly left in 2012 when he attempted to secure a move to Man Utd.And he has now recalled talking with Sir Alex about the switch, only for Dortmund to refuse the transfer.Speaking at the announcement of his partnership with gaming company G2A, he said: “I have to say that I had decided to go to Manchester United.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I remember when I was speaking with Sir Alex Ferguson and I was already decided.”I was 22, 23 [years old] and it was after one or two years in Dortmund [when Sir Alex called me]. You cannot say no [to him], it’s the prime of Manchester United, the prime of Sir Alex Ferguson. I was decided, okay, I want to join to Manchester United.”But in the end Dortmund said no. So I had to respect this.”At the time, Dortmund had just won successive Bundesliga titles.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBehind the scenes with Robert LewandowskiROBERT LEWANDOWSKI is just as impressive off the pitch as he has been on it for the best part of 20 years, writes SunSport’s Dylan Terry.
      From the moment he walked into the room of 30 or 40 people at the G2A media day, there was a humbleness you would not expect from one of the best players of his generation.
      He then proceeded to give what appeared to be an off-the-cuff speech about his excitement for the partnership – a task many sports stars may have found daunting but which Lewandowski took in his stride.
      Sitting down for the interview, he was quick to ask about my time in Barcelona and how I had found the city.
      He then proceeded to joke that I had “forgotten my sun cream” after catching a glimpse of my redder-than-usual complexion.
      Across the next 15 minutes he was happy to answer anything, speaking with an impressive eloquence and relaxed nature.
      At the end I requested a photo which was warmly received by Lewandowski – who was happy to oblige.
      We shook hands and he wished me the best, before he prepared for his next two interviews in German and Polish.

      And while they failed to repeat the feat in Lewandowski’s final two seasons at the club, Klopp’s men did reach the Champions League final in 2013 – losing at Wembley to Bayern Munich.Lewandowski then went on to win eight more Bundesliga titles after joining Bayern in 2014, along with the Champions League in 2020.Robert Lewandowski names THREE teams that could win the EurosMeanwhile, Sir Alex dusted himself down following the Lewandowski disappointment and went on to sign Robin van Persie – who fired Fergie to the last of his 13 Premier League titles with 26 goals.Lewandowski, now at Barcelona, was speaking to SunSport while promoting gaming company G2A.And what Sir Alex saw in the Pole on the pitch more than a decade ago, G2A founder Bartosz Skwarczek now sees in his attitude off the field.Discussing the link-up, Skwarczek said: “He is a professional. This is what we admire about Robert, whatever he does he does it seriously.”This is also our approach. So it doesn’t matter for us whether we do a customer journey, or the payments part of it, or the user experience for the client that is sitting in India, we treat it seriously.”Robert is exactly the same.”G2A.COM is the world’s largest and most trusted marketplace for digital entertainment where users can choose from more than 75,000 digital offerings including games, DLCs, in-game items, as well as non-gaming items like gift cards, subscriptions and software. More

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      Robert Lewandowski opens up on ‘special’ Jurgen Klopp, his failed Man Utd transfer and eating dessert before his main

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      ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI has described Jurgen Klopp as a “special” man in a fitting tribute to the outgoing Liverpool manager.SunSport exclusively sat down with the legendary striker to discuss his old Borussia Dortmund boss, a failed move to Manchester United, the Euros, and the real story behind him eating dessert before main meals.Robert Lewandowski sat down with SunSport for an exclusive interview in BarcelonaThe former Borussia Dortmund striker gave a touching tribute to Jurgen KloppCredit: Bongarts – GettyThe interview was in honour of his partnership with gaming company G2ABut we start with Klopp – who said farewell to Anfield on Sunday after a stellar nine years at the club.Lewandowski, 35, spent four seasons playing under Klopp at Dortmund during which he scored 103 goals in 187 games.Prior to Bayer Leverkusen’s recent triumph, Dortmund were the last team to topple Bayern Munich and clinch the Bundesliga title when they won back-to-back championships in 2011 and 2012.Klopp’s side also reached the Champions League final in 2013, losing to Bayern at Wembley.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd Lewandowski has nothing but fond memories of his time with the iconic German coach.’I still have amazing contact with Klopp’Speaking about Klopp at the announcement of his partnership with gaming company G2A, he said: “He’s just special as a man, not only as a coach.”I think that he wrote the new history of the Liverpool because he won everything.”When I saw what’s happened in the last game, not even the last game, even last week, he is still not only the legend but he’s the person who you loved and you love him because not only what he won, what he did on the pitch, but everything around [him] and you understood that this man is special.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSRobert Lewandowski major honoursMajor honours won by Robert Lewandowski:
      Lech Poznan: Polish league, Polish Cup, Polish Super Cup
      Borussia Dortmund: Bundesliga x2, German Cup, German Super Cup
      Bayern Munich: Bundesliga x8, German Cup x3, German Super Cup x5, Champions League, Uefa Super Cup, Club World Cup
      Barcelona: LaLiga, Spanish Super Cup
      Individual awards: Best Fifa Men’s Player x2, European Golden Shoe x2, Uefa Men’s Player of the Year, Uefa Team of the Year x2, Bundesliga Player of the Season x2, Bundesliga top scorer x7, Bundesliga Team of the Season x9, Bayern Munich Player of the Season x3, LaLiga Team of the Season x2

      “When I was with him in Dortmund I had and still have with him amazing contact because I know everything he does is pure.”He never lied. Even the tough decisions or tough conversations he said to you exactly what he wanted to say, not what you wanted to hear.Robert Lewandowski pays tribute to Jurgen Klopp”So it’s different. Always he was clear with the players, with the people. And in the end for sure he was clear with himself. And that’s why everything what he did for Liverpool, for this club, for the players, for sure that’s staying with him for the next years.”For one side it’s very sad that he’s leaving. But he knew that he needed a break. To be the coach not only of Liverpool but to be the coach of a top club costs a lot of energy. It’s a difficult job, very tough.”I’m very grateful for everything what he did, what kind of person he is. And I think that so many fans are going to miss him.”So nearly a Red DevilLewandowski wanted to join Manchester United by Dortmund blocked the dealCredit: PA:Empics SportLewandowski insisted he ‘could not say no’ when Sir Alex Ferguson called himCredit: GettyLewandowski left Dortmund for Bayern in 2014, one year before Klopp also departed the Westfalenstadion.But his exit could have come much earlier had he been granted his wish to join Man Utd.Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson spotted the forward’s supreme talent and was keen to bring him to Old Trafford.Yet despite both Fergie and Lewandowski wanting the move to happen, Dortmund refused to let him go, and instead Manchester United signed Robin van Persie from Arsenal.Recalling that time, the striker said: “I had decided to go to Manchester United. I remember when I was speaking with Sir Alex Ferguson and I was already decided.”I was 22, 23 [years old] and it was after one or two years in Dortmund [when Sir Alex called me]. You cannot say no [to him], it’s the prime of Manchester United, the prime of Sir Alex Ferguson. I was decided, okay, I want to join to Manchester United.”But in the end Dortmund said no. So I had to respect this.”He has not held that decision against Dortmund – insisting it will be a “dream” if they win the Champions League final at Wembley against Real Madrid on June 1.It comes 11 years after he lost with Dortmund at Wembley alongside team-mate Marco Reus – who he hopes is given the most “beautiful” send-off with a European triumph.As a person, Lewandowski has a number of eccentric quirks.They include his love of gaming – particularly anything F1-related – as he revealed his admiration for both Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen.But the main idiosyncrasy he has become known for is eating dessert BEFORE main meals.’I don’t like to mix food’Lewandowski was keen to set the records straight on this tale, elaborating on exactly what the unusual eating habit entails.”If you are talking about lunch, for example, I want to eat dessert like one and a half hours before I’m eating or one and a half hours after the lunch because I don’t like to mix food,” he said.”If you have the sweet things and you mix with protein, for example, if you boil it up, it doesn’t work well. So this is the idea.”I know the story was that I first [eat] dessert and [then] soup, something like that. But yeah, it’s not so correct.”On his dessert of choice, he added: “Chocolate fondant. Hot chocolate with the inside. I am so ready to eat this.”Lewandowski has scored 25 goals for Barcelona this season – the 13th successive campaign he has achieved this goalscoring tally.But, with the Catalan giants set to close out their campaign away at Sevilla on Sunday, they have already been condemned to a trophyless term.Behind the scenes with Robert LewandowskiROBERT LEWANDOWSKI is just as impressive off the pitch as he has been on it for the best part of 20 years, writes SunSport’s Dylan Terry.
      From the moment he walked into the room of 30 or 40 people at the G2A media day, there was a humbleness you would not expect from one of the best players of his generation.
      He then proceeded to give what appeared to be an off-the-cuff speech about his excitement for the partnership – a task many sports stars may have found daunting but which Lewandowski took in his stride.
      Sitting down for the interview, he was quick to ask about my time in Barcelona and how I had found the city.
      He then proceeded to joke that I had “forgotten my sun cream” after catching a glimpse of my redder-than-usual complexion.
      Across the next 15 minutes he was happy to answer anything, speaking with an impressive eloquence and relaxed nature.
      At the end I requested a photo which was warmly received by Lewandowski – who was happy to oblige.
      We shook hands and he wished me the best, before he prepared for his next two interviews in German and Polish.

      Lewandowski backs three teams at EurosNow the Poland captain, who has scored 680 goals in 988 games for club and country, will lead his nation into this summer’s European Championships.A tough group awaits them after they were drawn alongside France, Netherlands and Austria.And Lewandowski believes the French are one of three teams with a realistic chance of glory in Germany – alongside England and Portugal.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “France, I think also England. Also Portugal, I think they can be very dangerous because of the coach, because of the players of this generation.”G2A.COM is the world’s largest and most trusted marketplace for digital entertainment where users can choose from more than 75,000 digital offerings including games, DLCs, in-game items, as well as non-gaming items like gift cards, subscriptions and software.Lewandowski previously revealed he eats dessert before main mealsCredit: InstagramLewandowski has been scoring for fun as usual this seasonCredit: Getty More

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      Arsenal stars fighting for their futures as Mikel Arteta faces crucial summer to catch Man City – so who will be axed?

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      IT was another season of so close yet so far for Arsenal.The Gunners believed this was the year they were going to end their 20-year wait for a league title – but inevitably Manchester City fought back to make history as the first team to win it four times in a row.Mikel Arteta could axe several stars this summerCredit: GettyAaron Ramsdale could be on the way out amid interest from two clubsCredit: GettyThomas Partey has also been tipped to leaveCredit: GettyBoth Arsenal and Pep Guardiola’s machines failed to win just ten games in the Premier League this season.But with two points in it, the title will stay at the Etihad for another year.Mikel Arteta bolstered his side last summer with the arrival of Declan Rice and perhaps Arsenal are just a few more key signings away from ending City’s dominance.Ahead of a huge transfer window, SunSport take a look at which members of the squad should stay or be sold this summer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDAVID RAYA – STAYInitial doubts arose when he replaced Aaron Ramsdale, but he has since proven himself to be a world-class keeper with all the attributes needed for Arteta’s way of playing.Arsenal are expected to make his initial £3m loan spell permanent for £27m this summer with a view to him being their long-term No.1.AARON RAMSDALE – GOMost read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSUnfortunate to be cast aside for Raya, but is now looking for a move to become a regular No.1 elsewhere, especially with his aspirations of one day starting in goal for England.Chelsea and Newcastle are interested, but negotiations over the 26-year-old’s valuation are ongoing, with him having joined from Sheffield United in 2021 for £30m.’They took it away from us… next year we’ll be even more determined’, says Arteta after Arsenal title heartbreakTactics Exposed: Why Kai Havertz is Arsenal’s most important playerBy Dean Scoggins

      KAI HAVERTZ endured a difficult start to life at the Emirates after his big-money move from Chelsea.
      But has now well and truly found his feet.
      The German, 24, has found his scoring boots in recent weeks, including his double against his old club.
      But Havertz has been providing much more than goals in recent months.
      In fact he has become Mikel Arteta’s most important player as Arsenal go for the title.
      That’s after the Spanish boss made a genius tactical switch.
      Read more on how Mikel Arteta is using Kai Havertz.
      Or to watch the brilliant video in full on YouTube.

      KARL HEIN – STAYUnlikely to take Ramsdale’s spot as No.2 should the Englishman depart – but the club cannot afford to lose two keepers in one window.However, the 22-year-old could do with a loan move in the near future.WILLIAM SALIBA – STAYSaliba is of the best young defenders in the world right now, Arteta should be building his team around him. A vital part of the side’s spine that conceded just 29 Prem goals this term.Signed a new four-year deal until 2027 last July.BEN WHITE – STAYAnother solid member of Arteta’s impressive back four. Has the flexibility to play on the right or as a central defender, but has made right-back his own this term.Also extended his stay at the Emirates until 2028 back in March.GABRIEL – STAYWas on the outskirts at the start of the campaign but forced his way back in and has forged an almighty partnership with Saliba in the middle of the defence.One of Arteta’s most important signings back in September 2020 for around £23m and is under contract until 2027.JURRIEN TIMBER – STAYYet to see the best of the Dutchman in an Arsenal shirt due to injury but he is set to take the Prem by storm next season.Arteta views him as a real game-changing full-back with his ability on the ball.JAKUB KIWIOR – STAYThe Polish international has struggled to break up the duo of Saliba and Gabriel but has impressed when called upon, especially in a stint at left-back.A vital squad player that provides real depth and assurance.CEDRIC – GOLeaving the club with his contract expiring. Never really convinced Arteta he could be relied upon and spent most of the season warming the bench.TAKEHIRO TOMIYASU – STAYAnother flexible and reliable figure that Arteta adores, which is why he signed fresh terms until 2026 with the option of a further 12 months earlier this year.Can play as a full-back or centre-back and adds real presence at set-pieces.OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO – GOWith Timber in line to be Arteta’s first choice at left-back, it is hard to see the Ukrainian starting many games for Arsenal next season, something he may find tough to accept.A valued member and a good £35m signing from Manchester City in the summer of 2022 but has shown to be limited defensively at times.THOMAS PARTEY – GOInjury prone and has looked leggy when finally back from his thigh issues that kept him out from October until March.Interest from Saudi means Arsenal could cash in on the 30-year-old with his contract running out next summer.MARTIN ODEGAARD – STAYCaptain fantastic. A real leader amongst men at such a young age. The 25-year-old is on course to lift the Prem at Arsenal sooner rather than later.EMILE SMITH ROWE – STAYSidelined for most of the term and struggled to make an impact when called upon, but Arteta still sees something in him.A decent squad option but you get the feeling he is running out of time to prove to the club he is a player worth sticking with.JORGINHO – STAYArteta’s experienced general that often has Arsenal playing better with him in the team. Signed a new one-year rolling deal recently, rewarded for his influence on the squad.FABIO VIEIRA – GOPerhaps harsh to judge him based on just 16 appearances in all competitions this season but still looks out of place in English football since signing from Porto in June 2022 for £34m.A loan move away could help if Arsenal are struggling to recoup what they paid for him Saliba’s development away from the club a good example of how things can turnaround.MOHAMED ELNENY – GOAnother player departing with his contract expiring. The right call by both parties. A good servant from the Arsene Wenger days.KAI HAVERTZ – STAYSeems a bargain now at £65m from Chelsea following his barnstorming end to the season. Arteta bought him as a midfielder, yet now leads the line as a first-choice No.9.Interesting to see how Arsenal’s pursuit of a striker this summer will impact that.DECLAN RICE – STAYArsenal’s most important and influential signing in years. Enough said.BUKAYO SAKA – STAYAn undroppable superstar for club and country right now. Will undoubtedly get even better in seasons to come.GABRIEL JESUS – STAYFighting for a starting spot but right now but would be foolish to let him go given how much he can impact games and his winning mentality inside the group.Would take a ridiculous offer for Arsenal to consider selling him, and Jesus is more than happy in North London right now.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – STAYA dip in form this term but Arteta has huge faith in him. The added competition with Leandro Trossard will only make him better.EDDIE NKETIAH – GONketiah’s career is at a crossroads right now and he needs to leave to turn that around.The only issue are his six-figure wages which could put potential suitors off. Crystal Palace and West Ham have been interested in the past.LEANDRO TROSSARD – STAYCan bring his qualities as a starter or from the bench – a brilliant option to have when you are going for a title, evidenced by his 12 Prem goals this campaign.READ MORE SUN STORIESREISS NELSON – GOArteta has often spoken of Nelson’s potential and likes having him around the squad, but his impact has withered over the past 12 months. More

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      Gary Lineker says ‘I’ve heard a little rumour’ about Jurgen Klopp’s next job despite ex-Liverpool boss’ retirement hint

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      GARY LINEKER “heard a little rumour” that Jurgen Klopp could become president of Borussia Dortmund after leaving Liverpool.Klopp, 56, rolled credits on a glittering nine-year stint with the Reds that saw him winning all major honours, including a first league title in 30 years.Gary Lineker heard a wild rumour about Jurgen Klopp’s next job after leaving LiverpoolCredit: GettyLiverpool legend Klopp could become president of Borussia Dortmund, claims LinekerCredit: RexThe German tactician led the Merseysiders to a 2-0 victory over Wolves during his last ever match in charge of the Premier League giants at Anfield on Sunday.The Liverpool legend announced his departure in January as he revealed he is running out of energy and cannot continue in the job year after year.Lineker expects Klopp to take some time off but is confident “there will be a battle” between the world’s biggest clubs to sign him in “a year or so’s time”.But the Match of the Day host also revealed there’s been speculation about him returning to Dortmund in a different capacity that would see him taking charge of the entire club.Read More on FootballKlopp burst onto the scene back in 2008 when he was appointed to the Bundesliga giants’ dugout and led them to two consecutive league titles as well as the 2013 Champions League final.Lineker told the Rest is Football podcast: “I will be interested to see what Jurgen Klopp does next. “I think he will definitely take some time out because I think he’s genuine when he says he has run out of energy.“You can see why that job is so demanding. There will be a battle for him in a year’s time. Or they’ll be lining up for a year or so’s time.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”I heard a little rumour that he might end up being president of Borussia Dortmund, which would be amazing.”Klopp appeared to have hinted towards managerial retirement after leaving Liverpool.Moment Pep Guardiola is brought to tears and struggles to speak as he pays respects to Jurgen Klopp after Liverpool exitHowever, the ex-Dortmund boss set the record straight after the victory over Wolves and insisted he is not done just yet.Klopp said: “I will work. I have just finished this job. I don’t know exactly why nobody believes I will probably not be a manager again, but I understand because obviously it seems to be a drug.”It looks like that as everybody comes back and everybody works until they are 70-something. I have always had the idea I won’t do that. “Other people are smarter and do it in different ways, but I have to be all-in. I have to be the spark, I have to be the energiser, I have to be all these kind of things. And I am empty. That’s it.”My biggest worry today was that [goalkeeping coach] John Achterberg was coughing all the time next to me, and I thought I’d wake up tomorrow and I’ll be ill because he’s coughing in my direction! I have to start with the rest now and then we will see.”It’s not that I’m looking outside for the next opportunity and which clubs are available and stuff like this. There will be opportunities but I’m not thinking, ‘Maybe in a year’s time I’ll take that’. In this moment, see you later.”I have no clue [what I will do tomorrow]. Packing probably. I have enough things to do, private life must be planned as well but I’ve been here doing things and probably Ulla [Klopp’s wife] will update me where we go. I have no clue what’s coming up. We have a party tonight.”Klopp has botched his Liverpool exit… and it’s cost him his legacy, says Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
      NOW we know Jurgen Klopp’s final major trophy haul at Liverpool — one Champions League, one Premier League, one FA Cup, two League Cups and (if you must) a World Club Cup.
      But where does his reign stand among the greatest of the Premier League era?
      In black-and-white terms, Klopp is way behind Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola, the only two men to have won multiple Premier Leagues and a Champions League at the same club.
      Those two sit alongside Brian Clough, Bob Paisley and Sir Matt Busby as the undoubted all-time managerial greats of the English game.
      But Klopp ranks in the next tier down — with Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho (the Chelsea version), Bill Shankly and Don Revie.
      These were all men with the strength of character to transform their clubs in their own image and enjoy success but who did not win as much as they might have done.
      Had Klopp managed to keep his intentions under wraps and ended up with another title, perhaps even a treble or quadruple, he’d have edged himself up into that highest echelon with Ferguson, Guardiola, Clough, Paisley and Busby.
      But deciding the timing and the manner of your exit is one of the toughest calls for any manager or sportsman.
      Klopp got it wrong.
      Read Dave Kidd’s take on Klopp’s demise in full here.
      Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles. More

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      Jadon Sancho forced to take huge pay cut as Man Utd name price tag for Borussia Dortmund loanee

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      JADON SANCHO will not be handed a cut-price dream ticket back to Germany.And even if Borussia Dortmund do meet Manchester United’s asking price, he will have to take a hefty cut on his £275,000-a-week wages.Manchester United won’t be selling Jadon Sancho on a cut-price dealCredit: RexSancho wants to return to Borussia Dortmund after falling out of favour at Man UtdCredit: GettyThe Red Devils winger, 24, wants a permanent return to Dortmund after a sparkling loan spell for the Champions League finalists.United are happy to listen to offers but will not let the 23-cap England man go for less than 75 per cent of the £73million they paid Dortmund for him in 2021.Sancho, who became a global star in his first four years at the Bundesliga giants, was exiled at Old Trafford in September after falling out with boss Erik ten Hag.He went to Dortmund in January but his United deal runs to 2026 and there is talk of reconciliation.Read More on Man UtdIf Ten Hag is axed this summer, Sancho may be welcomed back as new technical director Jason Wilcox and CEO Omar Berrada worked with him at Manchester City.Sources also say Ten Hag’s tough stance has softened and could have him back if he stays at Old Trafford.But much will depend on how much Dortmund offer for their fan favourite and Sancho’s willingness to take a wage cut.Sancho’s turbulent three-year stint at United has only seen him amassing 12 goals and six assists in 82 appearances.Most read in FootballBut since returning to Dortmund on loan in January the winger has been regaining his old form.The forward has already registered three goals and three assists in 20 appearances with the Bundesliga giants.Jamie Carragher interviews Jadon Sancho on live TV after EIGHT PINTS and CBS Sports studio cannot bear to watchSancho has also played a crucial role in BVB’s road to the Champions League final where they will face Real Madrid on June 1 at Wembley. More

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      Man Utd flop Sofyan Amrabat set to STAY in Premier League next season after impressing with recent form

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      SOFYAN AMRABAT is set to remain in the Premier League next season – with or without Manchester United.The Moroccan star, 27, has impressed in recent weeks and won praise from United boss Erik Ten Hag.Man Utd are yet to make a decision about Sofyan Amrabat’s futureCredit: AlamyThe midfielder has attracted interest from other Premier League clubsCredit: GettyUnited have an option to sign the player – who is currently on loan from Italian club Fiorentina – but it is unclear whether they will do so.That has put two other Premier League clubs on red alert to his potential availability.Sun Online understands Crystal Palace and Fulham have both sent scouts to watch the player in the last four weeks.Palace insiders were apparently also impressed with his performance after coming on for United in their drubbing at Selhurst Park last month.Read More on FootballThe South Londoners are likely to have big money to spend in the summer.As Sun Online revealed yesterday, they face losing FOUR top players so it is shaping up to be a busy window.And 56-cap international Amrabat, who shone at World Cup, is seen as a player who can help take Palace to the next level – and challenge for European football.Fulham, meanwhile, are lining up replacements as they brace themselves for the departure of superstar midfielder Joao Palhinha.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe midfielder has spent this season on loan from FiorentinaThe Portuguese player almost switched to Bayern Munich last summer and remains on the radar of the German side.Liverpool have also been widely linked with a move for the player who is seen as one of the league’s most talented midfielders.Man Utd’s problems laid bare with WATERFALL flooding through Old Trafford’s leaky roof as heavens open vs ArsenalSunSport’s verdict on Man Utd flopsSir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos have a busy summer ahead to get Man Utd’s squad in order for next season. Below SunSport gives it verdict on how they should deal with the Red Devils flops this summer.

      Andre Onana – STAY: After a dodgy start at Old Trafford Onana has proven to be one of the more reliable members of the squad this season despite being peppered with shots constantly.
      Altay Bayindir – GO: Reports in February suggested Bayindir was unhappy with his bit part role at Man Utd amid interest from Turkish giants Galatasaray. If profit can be made on a sale then it should be done.
      Tom Heaton – STAY: Veteran goalkeeper Heaton, 38, is a reliable back-up and is on a relatively small wage at the club. So long as he is happy it makes sense to keep him.
      Aaron Wan-Bissaka – GO: Wan-Bissaka, 26, has never managed to make the right-back position his own. With his contract up in 2025 it makes sense to cash in now.
      Diogo Dalot – STAY: Dalot, 26, has been one of Man Utd’s most consistent performers this season.
      Raphael Varane – GO: If it wasn’t for his injury record there would be a strong shout to keep Varane, but costs need to be cut to allow the squad to be freshened up.
      Harry Maguire – GO: Maguire has showed he has the right character to be at Man Utd but overall ability and desired profile are another matter, with Maguire too slow to play in a high line defence.
      Lisandro Martinez – STAY: Martinez, 26, is second to none in terms of build up play. He needs a long-term defensive partner on the right side and to cut out the injuries which have plagued him this season.
      Jonny Evans – GO: Veteran campaigner Evans could easily be on the stay list if he was only going to be a bit part player. But he has shown his advanced years at times this season.
      Victor Lindelof – GO:  Lindelof, 29, has been reliable if not unremarkable in his Man Utd career. He has one year left on his contract so should be moved on if a decent transfer fee can be got for him.
      Willy Kambwala – STAY: He should be given the opportunity to mature for a few years behind a senior CB pairing before stepping into the first team as a starter or being moved on.
      Luke Shaw – GO: One of the Premier League’s best left-backs when fit, Shaw has been a good servant when available. But alas that has been his Achilles heel once again this season.
      Tyrell Malacia – STAY: Malacia, 24, was decent enough to earn some merit in his first season at Man Utd before injury ended his season and inadvertently led to his second season being a write off.
      Sofyan Amrabat – GO: Amrabat, 27, looked like a world beater at the Qatar World Cup with Morocco. But he’s had an underwhelming season in England and his loan spell will almost certainly not be made permanent.
      Casemiro – GO: An alarming physical decline has seen him turn from key star to burden. If a club is willing to buy the 32-year-old – who has two more years on his contract – then United should snatch their hand off.
      Christian Eriksen – GO: Eriksen proved a useful asset and Ineos should look to bring in another player with similar traits, but frankly his legs have looked gone towards the end of this season.
      Kobbie Mainoo – STAY: The first of the so-called untouchables, Mainoo has been a rare glimmer of hope in the Red Devils midfield this season.
      Mason Mount – STAY: Mount can be given the benefit of the doubt until summer 2025 at least after a debut season riddled with injury.
      Scott McTominay – STAY: McTominay, 27, has proven himself to be a brilliant plan B off the bench this season, and that is exactly why Ineos should look to keep him.
      Bruno Fernandes – STAY: Man Utd’s best player since his arrival just over four years ago, Fernandes, 29, remains second-to-none when it comes to creating chances while his tenacity boosts those around him.
      Antony – GO: There’s a case to argue that Antony may be the worst pound-for-pound signing in Premier League history. Despite some memorable moments he simply isn’t Man Utd quality.
      Anthony Martial – GO: Ultimately Martial needs to be let go when his deal runs out this summer after an appalling injury record of late.
      Marcus Rashford – STAY: As easy as it would be to say Rashford should leave the club this summer, it is difficult to look at the market and find many available players capable of scoring 30 goals a season.
      Alejandro Garnacho – STAY: Another third of the untouchables trio, Garnacho has made the right-wing his own since coming into it. He’s a raw talent but has shown he has the quality to improve.
      Rasmus Hojlund – STAY: A slow burner in his first Man Utd season, the 21-year-old has often been starved of supply which has led to him being unable to get the goals his movement and unselfish play often merits.
      Amad Diallo – STAY: In the fleeting moments he has been on the pitch for Man Utd this season, Diallo has looked dangerous and exciting. He should be given a chance to flourish with some proper chances in the first team across a whole season. More

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      Sunderland announce release list with 14 players leaving including Love Island legend’s husband and ex-Man Utd starlet

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      CHAMPIONSHIP club Sunderland have revealed that Corry Evans and Bradley Dack will both leave next month when their contracts expire.The two stars were part of 14 players that were left off the Black Cats’ retained list.Sunderland have announced former captain Corry Evans is leaving the clubCredit: AlamyBradley Dack only signed last summer but injury restricted him to just 16 appearancesCredit: GettyDack is married to Love Island legend Olivia AttwoodCredit: InstagramEvans captained Sunderland to League One play-off glory in 2022Credit: GettyEvans, 33, and Dack, 30, both endured injury problems this season as the North East side failed to reach the play-offs.Versatile Northern Ireland international Evans, who has featured in both defence and midfield, started his career at Manchester United.After loan spells at Carlisle and Hull City, he joined the Tigers permanently in 2011. He spent two years there before Blackburn swooped to sign him and he enjoyed eight years at Ewood Park.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLEvans signed for Sunderland on a free transfer in 2021 and he captained the club as they won promotion back to the Championship via the play-offs.But the star suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in January 2023 and only returned to training with the club in March.He managed to make three appearances in the closing stages of what turned out to be a miserable end to season for Sunderland.Meanwhile, Dack only arrived at the Stadium of Light on a free from Blackburn Rovers last summer.Most read in ChampionshipBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut he has suffered a number of injury issues that have restricted him to just one goal in 16 appearances.The attacker was a fans’ favourite at Ewood Park, playing 173 times for Rovers over six years.Most dramatic Premier League’s final daysThe ex-Gillingham ace also hit the headlines when it emerged that he was dating former Love Island star Olivia Attwood.They had actually been introduced by mutual friends at a swanky London nightclub before she entered the villa, with the pair getting engaged in 2019.Dack finally tied the knot with Olivia following a series of Covid-related delays in a stunning ceremony last year after his switch to Sunderland.Sunderland have also released Jack Diamond, 24, with the club opting not to trigger a one-year extension following a loan spell at Carlisle United.Fellow academy graduate Ellis Taylor, 21, is also departing.Loanees Mason Burstow and Callum Styles have returned to their parent clubs, Chelsea and Barnsley.England’s new Euros WagsENGLAND football stars will be hoping their other halves will bring them good luck in Germany this summer and SunSport runs down the new faces to expect to see.
      Erica Correa: We exclusively revealed Man Utd star Marcus Rashford has been growing close to the Colombia-born model.
      Laura Celia Valk: The Dutch stunner is rumoured to be dating Jude Bellginham and staying in his Madrid mansion.
      Ellie Alderson: The interior designer is with Ollie Watkins, who will be hoping for a place on the plane after missing the last Euros and World Cup.
      Dani Dyer: The actor and reality TV star is going out with Jarrod Bowen, who is in fine form and in line for a Euros call up.
      Annie Keating: Girlfriend to Anthony Gordon, who is vying for a place in England’s competitive frontline.
      Iris Law: The model and daughter to actor Jude sparked romance rumours with Trent Alexander-Arnold after they were spotted together.

      And Ben Creamer, Callum Wilson, Connor Pye, Daniel Obolo, Harry Gardiner, Jayden Sekete, Joe Ryder, Kailem Beattie, Michael Spellman and Thomas Chiabi will depart the academy.Having led the club to the Championship play-offs the previous season, Tony Mowbray was surprisingly sacked in December with the club ninth in the table.He was replaced by Michael Beale – but after six defeats in his opening 12 games, including a 3-0 home FA Cup loss to rivals Newcastle United, he was also axed in February.READ MORE SUN STORIESThat led to popular coach Mike Dodds being placed in interim charge for the remainder of the campaign, where Sunderland ended up finishing a disappointing 16th.Will Still and Sheffield Wednesday’s Danny Rohl are two of the names being linked with becoming a permanent successor.Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Man Utd transfer target’s team ‘hint at doubts over Erik ten Hag’s future as signings hang in the balance’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED currently remain undecided about Erik ten Hag’s future, according to reports.The Dutchman could be sacked this summer amid his team’s poor run of form and fractured relationships behind the scenes.Erik ten Hag’s future is in doubtCredit: GettyTosin Adarabioyo has emerged as a transfer target, but his representatives have been given no guarantees Ten Hag will remain in chargeCredit: GettySir Jim Ratcliffe is set to make a decision about Ten Hag’s future after the FA Cup finalCredit: PADespite the doubts surrounding his future, Ten Hag has allegedly been involved with planning ahead for the transfer window.Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo has emerged as a top target, with the Red Devils convinced he will be an ideal replacement for Raphael Varane.The 26-year-old is expected to leave Craven Cottage on a free transfer when his contract expires next month.However, talkSPORT claim his advisers have been offered no guarantees that Ten Hag will be in charge of Man Utd come the start of next season.Read More on FootballUnited’s new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is expected to make a decision about the Dutchman’s future after the FA Cup final.England boss Gareth Southgate is among the candidates being considered for the job should Ten Hag leave.Former Chelsea boss Graham Potter, who has been out of work for over a year, is also on the shortlist.And Thomas Tuchel is another name that has been linked with the job.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTuchel was set to leave Bayern Munich this summer after failing to win a trophy with the Bundesliga giants.However, he is now in talks to sign a new contract.Erik ten Hag’s press conference after Man Utd’s 3-2 win against NewcastleTen Hag addressed Man Utd fans following the club’s final match of the season at Old Trafford on Wednesday.He said: “It wasn’t an easy season, but one thing remained constant, and it was the backing of you for the team.”The season is not over yet. Now, first we will travel to Brighton for three points and then we go to Wembley.”And I promise you that those players will give everything, to get that cup, to win the cup, and bring it to Old Trafford.”And be assured, you will be there supporting us. Thank you, you are the best supporters in the world, thank you.” More