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      Watch Sergio Aguero SCORE in first game since retiring with heart condition then copy pal Messi’s celebration

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      SERGIO AGUERO scored in his first game back since his retirement and copied best friend Lionel Messi’s goal celebration.The 34-year-old was forced into hanging up his boots due to heart problems in December 2021.
      Sergio Aguero scored in his first appearance back after retiringCredit: Twitter – @KingsLeague
      Aguero copied Lionel Messi’s celebration from the World CupCredit: Twitter – @KingsLeague
      Lionel Messi did the celebration versus the NetherlandsCredit: Getty
      But now he is back playing for his own Kings League franchise called KuniSports.
      The competition, organised by Gerrard Pique, involves seven-a-side teams led by former professionals and influencers as they battle it out for victory.
      Aguero proved that he’s still got it, scoring a fantastic goal as his side eventually lost on penalties to Porcinos FC.
      The ex-Manchester City striker chested down a long ball and swivelled before firing into the bottom corner with his weaker left foot.
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      A thrilled Aguero ran away and decided to copy Messi’s cupped ears gesture from the World Cup.
      The Argentina legend did the celebration after he scored in the quarter-final against the Netherlands.
      It became one of the best remembered moments of the tournament in Qatar, with it being directed at Dutch boss Louis van Gaal.
      This was because of the way he treated Juan Roman Riquelme, one of Messi’s idols, when he was Barcelona manager, often not playing him and criticising the signing.
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      Aguero and Messi are best pals and the retired star was heavily involved in Argentina’s World Cup victory, partying with the team and he was often seen around the dugout.
      The Kings League is a new venture created by ex-Barca defender Pique.
      It enjoyed a good start at the weekend, sending social media into a frenzy as everyone was talking about the masked player on one team.
      The man behind the disguise is a current LaLiga star and he wore ‘Enigma’ on the back of his shirt.
      As for Aguero, he will not just feature in the Kings League, he is also expected to play in a friendly for Ecuadorian side Barcelona SC later this month.
      Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero have been friends for yearsCredit: Getty More

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      World Cup’s hottest fan Ivana Knoll stuns in revealing swimsuit on holiday in the Maldives sending fans into meltdown

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      IVANA KNOLL has stunned her fans with a recent upload on her Instagram.The model, often known as the “World Cup’s hottest fan”, uploaded an unseen picture from a holiday in the Maldives.
      Ivana Knoll shared this picture of herself in MaldivesCredit: Instagram @knolldoll
      It appears to be from the same trip that this snap came fromCredit: Instagram @knolldoll
      The picture of the Croatian football fan lying on the side of a pool in a tight black swimsuit.
      She shared the picture with her 3.6million Instagram followers and the loved them as the post was liked over 68 thousand times in one hour.
      On commented: “Goddess! But you already know that.”
      A second wrote: “You are GORGEOUS Ivana!”
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      A third said: “Bombshell alert!”
      A fourth added: “You are a star.”
      Another said: “Ready for tonight’s miss universe 2022 pageant?”
      Knoll rose to fame during the World Cup in Qatar after she was spotted wearing revealing outfits, despite the country’s modesty rules.
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      She traveled to the World Cup to support her nation Croatia, for which she argues is it’s “biggest fan”.
      Since her appearance in Qatar, she has claimed that football stars have slid into her messages after spotting her.
      Earlier this week she showed off her figure by posting a video of herself in a bikini on social media.
      Knoll also wowed fans recently as she revealed that former world heavyweight champion boxer Wladimir Klitschko is her secret crush.
      She shared the picture in her InstagramCredit: Instagram @knolldoll
      She attracted attention during the World Cup in QatarCredit: Getty
      During which she often wore revealing outfitsCredit: PA More

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      Man Utd fans sing X-rated chant at Kalvin Phillips in Manchester derby after City ace returned from World Cup overweight

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans mocked Kalvin Phillips by singing an X-rated song about his weight.Phillips was criticised by his own manager Pep Guardiola for returning from the Qatar World Cup “overweight”.
      Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips warms up at Old TraffordCredit: AFP
      United fans used the dig as ammunition during the Manchester derby at Old Trafford.
      According to journalist Andy Mitten, supporters in the Stretford End chanted to Phillips: “Get your t**s out for the lads.”
      They then followed it up with a chant against his old side Leeds, who they said are “falling apart again.”
      Phillips, 27, was left out of City’s squad after returning back from the winter World Cup.
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      And when asked why, Guardiola responded: “He’s not injured – he arrived overweight.
      “I don’t know [why]. He didn’t arrive in the condition to do training sessions and to play.”
      Phillips faced a period on the bench for City but his boss’ swipe appeared to have motivated him.
      Guardiola said: “He has the perfect body now – so sexy. We will see for the weekend.’
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      “He has spent the first part of the season out with surgery to arrive for the World Cup – and did everything to get to the World Cup.
      “It’s not just about just being fit you also have to understand what we want to do, the movements etc.
      “So that means, as quick as possible, because Rodri cannot play all the games, so as quick as possible he he will play.
      “But I’m happy that yesterday for example Kalvin trained really well and sooner or later he will play.”
      Phillips came on for the last four minutes when City beat Chelsea 1-0 at Stamford Bridge and was on the end of similar stick.
      But Guardiola responded: “He has a big sense of humour. It was funny from the Chelsea fans.”
      Kalvin Phillips came on against Chelsea off the benchCredit: Getty More

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      Martinez faces punishment for World Cup final antics as Fifa open proceedings against Argentina for ‘rule breaches’

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      FIFA have launched an investigation into Argentina’s behaviour in the World Cup final. Football’s governing body announced it has “opened proceedings” against Lionel Messi and Co for potential violations of Fifa’s disciplinary code.
      Argentina were crowned champions in QatarCredit: Getty
      Emiliano Martinez’s conduct in Qatar was criticised by manyCredit: Getty
      But his tactics paid dividendsCredit: Alamy
      During the award ceremony Martinez made a crude gestureCredit: Getty
      And his controversial antics carried on during the celebrations in ArgentinaCredit: @ESPNFC
      The statement read: “The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings against the Argentinian Football Association due to potential breaches of articles 11 (Offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play) and 12 (Misconduct of players and officials) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, as well as of article 44 of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Regulations in conjunction with the Media and Marketing Regulations for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, during the Argentina v. France FIFA World Cup final.”
      Following their dramatic shootout victory over France in the final, many were critical of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
      Martinez used the dark arts to get into the heads of the French players – a tactic which ultimately paid dividends as his nation won the shootout.
      But it was his antics after the final whistle which caused the most controversy.
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      During the award ceremony, Martinez made a crude gesture with the Golden Glove award.
      In the celebrations in the dressing room, Martinez also called for a minute’s silence for Kylian Mbappe.
      This continued at the trophy parade back in Argentina.
      The ex-Arsenal stopper was spotted holding a baby doll with a picture of Mbappe’s face.
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      And now, almost one month after the final, Argentina’s FA could face a sizeable fine over their conduct.
      Argentina was not the only nation in Fifa’s cross hairs following the tournament.
      Sanctions have already been levelled towards Mexico due to discriminatory chanting, which resulted in an £88,000 fine and the order to play one game behind closed doors.
      Serbia and Ecuador also faced punishment, with both being hit with partial stadium closures for breaching the discrimination clause, though Serbia also broke the misconduct clause.
      This also landed Serbia a fine of £44,000, while Ecuador were handed a fine just under £18,000.
      2018 finalists and third placed nation Croatia have also had an investigation opened against them for their own conduct against Morocco.
      The charges against Croatia refer to “potential violations of articles 13 (discrimination) and 16 (order and security at matches) of the Fifa disciplinary code.”
      Tottenham star Cristian Romero hit back at critics of Argentina’s antics.
      In an interview with Sky Sports, he said: “Yes (people make too much of it). Only because people just see the photos.
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      “People don’t think about what was said before for us to get to this point. Against Holland, they spoke too much before actually entering the pitch and we were annoyed with that.
      “They said we lacked respect but that’s not true. You can understand what would go on to happen.” More

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      Watch World Cup joker Emi Martinez gatecrash Sky Sports interview to kiss Aston Villa scorer Leon Bailey

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      EMIL MARTINEZ gatecrashed teammate Leon Bailey’s post-match interview with Sky Sports last night to plant a kiss on the Aston Villa goalscorer.The goalkeeper hit the headlines last month after helping Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar with crucial saves in their shoot-out victory over France.
      Aston Villa’s Emi Martinez was pumped up after the win over Leeds UnitedCredit: AP
      “It was really great to see the team be there for each other” 🙌Leon Bailey and Ashley Young reflect on a big win for Aston Villa with a brief cameo from Emi Martinez 😅 pic.twitter.com/quL1dhmyoG— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 13, 2023

      He returned to club action earlier this month after being granted time off to return to his homeland and celebrate that success with his international colleagues.
      The 30-year-old was back in Villa’s side for the 1-1 draw with Wolves on January 4.
      But he returned to winning ways at club level yesterday as they defeated Leeds United 2-1 in the Premier League.
      Winger Bailey, 25, neatly finished off a swift counter-attack to give the hosts an early lead at Villa Park.
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      Emiliano Buendia headed home midway through the second period to double that advantage before Patrick Bamford’s late strike for Leeds set-up a nervy finish.
      But Martinez and his pals held on to claim the crucial three points, and the ex-Arsenal stopper’s joy was on full display afterwards.
      Bailey and teammate Ashley Young were being interviewed on the pitch live on Sky Sports when the South American marched up behind them.
      He grabbed Bailey then planted a smacker right on the goalscorer’s head as they were mid-conversation.
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      Martinez, who has splashed out £20,000 on a guard dog used by the US Navy Seals to protect his medal and family, caused a furore moments after collecting the Glove Glove award after La Abliceleste’s World Cup triumph by putting the trophy to his crotch and thrusting it forward.
      His antics back in Buenos Aires then sparked more controversy after he goaded France’s Kylian Mbappe by holding a baby doll with the star’s face on it during the victory parade. More

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      Jose Mourinho reveals he TURNED DOWN Portugal job after World Cup despite Cristiano Ronaldo wanting him as new boss

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      JOSE MOURINHO revealed he rejected the Portugal manager’s job.That is despite Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly wanting the Special One to succeed Fernando Santos.
      Jose Mourinho insists he rejected the chance to be Portugal managerCredit: Getty
      Cristiano Ronaldo is said to have wanted the Special One to replace Fernando SantosCredit: Getty
      Euro 2016-winning coach Santos was sacked after the World Cup quarter-final defeat to Morocco in Qatar.
      The Portuguese FA appointed Roberto Martinez as his replacement, claiming he was the only manager they formally approached.
      But Mourinho’s version of events implies it was the current Roma chief who was the first choice before he turned them down.
      Part of the thinking was he would get the best out of Ronaldo, who was dropped during Qatar 2022.
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      Mourinho, who according to the Daily Mail would be Ronaldo’s preferred Portugal manager, said: “The fact that the president of the FPF said that I was not his first choice, but his only choice, makes me proud.
      “But I decided not to go. I’m here and that’s what matters.”
      Mourinho has hinted at stepping into international management and could be named as the next Brazil boss.
      But for now is staying put with Roma with 18 months left on his current contract.
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      He led the Serie A giants to the Europa Conference League last year and they are in the hunt for silverware and Champions League qualification this season.
      Martinez agreed to take over as Portugal chief just weeks after leaving his job with Belgium following their disastrous World Cup campaign.

      And one of the first moves the ex-Everton boss will play is holding talks with Ronaldo regarding the 37-year-old Al-Nassr star’s future for his country.
      Martinez said: “Football decisions have to be taken on the pitch. I’m not a coach that makes decisions in the boardroom.
      “My starting point is to get in touch with all the players, the list of 26 from the World Cup, and Cristiano Ronaldo is on that list.
      “He’s been with the national team for 19 years and he deserves the respect of being able to sit down and talk.
      “From there [the goal] is to create in ten weeks the best team for the qualification of the European championship.
      “Today is a day of satisfaction. Tomorrow we will start working, getting to know all of the players and Cristiano is one of them.” More

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      Fifa Puskas Award nominees for best goal of 2022 revealed including Balotelli’s rabona and Russo’s sensational backheel

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      MARIO BALOTELLI and Lioness hero Alessia Russo headline the list of Fifa Puskas Award nominees.The gong is handed out annually to the scorer of the year’s best goal.
      Erik Lamela is the Puskas Award’s reigning victorCredit: PA
      Its current holder is former Tottenham ace Erik Lamela for his sensational rabona against Arsenal during the 2020-21 season.
      Prem stars have dominated the award in recent years, with Son Heung-min, Mo Salah and Olivier Giroud all winning it while playing in England.
      SunSport takes a look at who is in the mix to win this year’s edition.
      MARIO BALOTELLI
      Former Manchester City and Liverpool star is now playing for Adana Demirspor in Turkey.
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      He netted five times in a 7-0 win over Goztepe last season, with his fifth a sensational rabona following a series of dazzling stepovers.
      Balotelli, 32, scored 18 goals in the Turkish top flight last term.
      Super Mario bagged an amazing rabona while playing in Turkey
      AMANDINE HENRY
      French midfield dynamo scored a remarkable goal on her way to winning last season’s Champions League with Lyon.
      Henry, 33, went into a crunching tackle, winning the ball high up the pitch.
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      She then unleashed an unstoppable effort from range into the top corner, her side beating Barcelona 3-1 to lift the trophy.
      Amandine Henry let fly from miles outCredit: FIFA
      THEO HERNANDEZ
      AC Milan star scored a sensational solo goal against Atalanta last season.
      The Frenchman picked up the ball deep in his own half and embarked on an amazing run.
      He slalomed his way through plenty of challenges into Atalanta’s box before falling into a remarkable finish.
      Theo Hernandez provided a clinical finish after a great runCredit: FIFA
      ALOU KUOL
      Aussie forward netted an outrageous scorpion kick while playing for his country’s Under-23s against Iraq.
      A cross was delivered from the right a little behind Kuol, but the Stuttgart forward miraculously contorted his body to somehow divert the ball goalwards.
      His brother Garang is a good player too, and signed for Newcastle in January.
      Alou Kuol executed a perfect scorpion kickCredit: FIFA
      KYLIAN MBAPPE
      The most high profile of the nominees was Kylian Mbappe’s sensational equaliser in the World Cup final against Argentina.
      Having netted a penalty to pull his side back to 2-1 moments earlier, Mbappe one-two’d with Marcus Thuram before unleashing a beautifully controlled shot beyond Emi Martinez.
      The France talisman went on to equalise again from the spot in extra time, before his side succumbed on penalties.
      Kylian Mbappe conjured a sensational World Cup final equaliserCredit: Alamy
      FRANCISCO GONZALEZ METILLI
      Argentine star bagged arguably the best volley on this list.
      Playing for Central Cordoba against Rosario Central, Gonzalez Metilli carefully watched the ball as it was floated towards him.
      The 25-year-old unleashed an amazing left-footed strike over the flailing keeper and into the top corner.
      Francisco Gonzelez Metilli unleashes a sensational volley
      MARCIN OLEKSY
      Polish amputee Marcin Oleksy wowed fans worldwide with his gravity defying bicycle kick.
      Oleksy sent his team-mates wild by swivelling with his crutches to produce an acrobatic finish.
      The Pole has great pedigree, having represented his country at the Amputee World Cup.
      Marcin Oleksy produced incredible athleticismCredit: FIFA
      SALMA PARALLUELO
      Spanish teenager announced herself on the global stage by scoring a sensational effort against Barcelona last term.
      The winger cut inside before perfectly curling an incredible strike into the top corner.
      Barca clearly took notice, signing Paralluelo just a few months later.
      Salma Paralluelo curled a remarkable shot into the top cornerCredit: FIFA
      DIMITRI PAYET
      Former West Ham star lit up the Europa Conference League for Marseille last season.
      During his side’s quarter-final with PAOK, a corner was chipped out to the Frenchman on the edge of the box.
      Taking the ball on the half volley, Payet smacked the cleanest of strikes right into the top corner, leaving team-mates with hands on their heads in disbelief.
      Dimitri Payet produced a sensational strike against PAOKCredit: FIFA
      RICHARLISON
      Tottenham star bagged the World Cup goal of the tournament gong for his amazing bicycle kick against Serbia for Brazil.
      The forward controlled Vinicius Jr’s cross, before swivelling in one motion to fire an incredible volley into the back of the net.
      He bagged twice in the match to hand his side a 2-0 win.
      Richarlison bagged the World Cup’s goal of the tournamentCredit: PA
      ALESSIA RUSSO
      Lioness star Alessia Russo all but sealed her side’s place in the Euro 2022 final in spectacular fashion.
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      Having played the role of super-sub perfectly throughout the tournament, Russo did so once again in the semi-final against Sweden.
      Collecting the rebound from her own shot, the Manchester United forward improvised superbly by back-heeling beyond the helpless goalkeeper to send her side into dreamland.
      Alessia Russo produces a brilliant back-heelCredit: Rex More

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      Watch Lionel Messi turn on the style and finish stunning team goal in first game back for PSG following World Cup win

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      LIONEL MESSI was the star of the show in his first game since the World Cup as PSG beat Angers 2-0.The forward has had a few weeks off since his historic World Cup win but showed no signs of rustiness on his return.
      Lionel Messi is starting 2023 how he finished 2022 🤷‍♂️It was marginal, but the GOAT doubles PSG’s lead 🐐He makes it look so easy… pic.twitter.com/KujydPyEAn— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) January 11, 2023

      Lionel Messi paid tribute to the late Pele before the gameCredit: Getty
      Messi impressed with a goal on his PSG returnCredit: AP
      Messi started in attack alongside Neymar and Hugo Ekitike, who opened the scoring in the fifth minute.
      The 35-year-old then got in the act after he finished off a brilliant PSG move to slot the ball into the back of the net with his weaker foot.
      Messi started the passing move and played a one-two with Sergio Ramos before finding Ekitike.
      He continued his clever run into the box and was picked out by Nordi Mukiele before scoring.
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      The linesman raised his flag to spoil Messi’s celebration – only for VAR to rule the Argentine had in fact timed his run to perfection.
      With PSG cruising Messi decided to turn on the style as the clock wound down.
      The World Cup winner was surrounded in the corner of the penalty box by two Angers defenders yet still managed to wrangle himself free with the ball.
      He cleverly turned away from one before flicking the ball past the second and finding Mukiele.
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      PSG’s win means they have lost just once in 18 Ligue Un games and top the league by six points.
      Messi now has eight goals in 14 league games this season and he paid tribute to the late Pele ahead of kick-off. More