GOOD NEWS: Luis Diaz’s father finally FREED by ELN guerrillas 12 days after being kidnapped - soccerdelights.com
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GOOD NEWS: Luis Diaz’s father finally FREED by ELN guerrillas 12 days after being kidnapped

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GOOD NEWS: Luis Diaz’s father finally FREED by ELN guerrillas 12 days after being kidnapped

The dad of Liverpool winger Luis Diaz has finally been released today 12 days after he was kidnapped by ELN guerrillas in Colombia.

Footage showed helicopters circling the border area between La Guajira and Cesar where the kidnappers would hand over Luis Manuel Díaz Jimenez.

Colombian media report that after 12 days the 58-year-old is now safe at the hands of a UN committee.

The release happened after it was agreed a commission from the United Nations and the Catholic Church would liaise with the ELN.

The helicopter was waiting at the Valledupar airport after it was agreed the ELN would hand over the hostage to the committee somewhere in the Serranía del Perijá.

Only humanitarian workers and the helicopter crew were allowed onboard the aircraft which is set to take the 58-year-old to a hospital for a checkup following his ordeal.

The Colombian government announced on Wednesday that the operation to release Luis Mane Diaz had already begun but it was actually today when the Liverpool star’s dad was freed.

 

The rebel group had admitted snatching Diaz was a “mistake” and promised to release him as soon as possible last week but it has taken them till today to free him.

A potential reason for the delay could be a suspected war that has broken out between leaders of the Northern War Front over the ransom for Diaz’s release.

Colombian authorities have offered a reward of $200,000,000 Pesos (£40,600) for Diaz’s return.

Luis Manuel Díaz Jimenez was taken hostage at gunpoint alongside his wife on October 28 in Barrancas.

Diaz’s mum was left in the car and saved by police but left-wing ELN fighters dragged the father away following a pursuit.

But he was released today after being held captive for 12 days.

 

CCTV footage showed the Díazes being followed by men on motorbikes in their hometown of Barrancas, in the northern province of La Guajira.

Gunmen then accosted the couple at a petrol station, leaving the mother, before police closed in.

Police combed the mountainous Serranía del Perijá area for Diaz during a frantic week-long hunt.

The kidnap sparked outrage in Colombia, where Luis Diaz is immensely popular and plays for the national team.

Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp dedicated Sunday’s 3-0 Premier League victory over Forest to Díaz, saying it was “for our brother”.

 

The kidnap is believed to have been masterminded by a female guerrilla fighter called Patricia.

The 40-year-old has spent more than half her life trying to overthrow the Colombian government and install a communist regime.

The guerrilla group has a decades-long history of terror – carrying out military-style assassinations, extortion operations and kidnappings.

It comes after the Colombian military withdrew its troops from the area surrounding the guerillas’ jungle lair.

They confirmed soldiers and police hunting for his kidnappers had been ordered out of the area the nine-day hunt had been focusing on to facilitate his release.

Around 200 men forming part of the search in the Perija Mountains on Colombia’s border with Venezuela have been told to return to the town of Barrancas where he was abducted just over a week ago.

Coronel Giovanni Montanez said: “The troops that are taking part in the search operation for Luis Manuel Diaz are being ordered to carry out a repositioning to give guarantees for the handover of this hostage.”

Diaz’s family begged kidnappers to offer proof he is still alive as his brother said: “What we would most like is to have that proof by seeing him and knowing what situation our brother, our relative, our papa, our son is in because my father is here and wants to see his son.”

Luis Alfonso Diaz, the footballer’s cousin, told Colombian state broadcaster RNC: “We are asking the ELN to send us proof of how Luis Manuel is now so we can have some peace of mind.”

It came as the UN also joined the calls to free the footballer’s kidnapped dad Luis Manuel Diaz.

Amid the desperate and ongoing search for Diaz’s dad, the footballer netted a dramatic 95th-minute equaliser against Luton on Sunday evening.

He lifted up his Liverpool shirt afterwards, in his first game since the kidnapping, to display a message that said in Spanish “Freedom for Papa.”

The 26-year-old had come off the bench at Kenilworth Road to secure a vital point for Liverpool who sit third in the Premier League following the 1-1 draw.

His celebration sparked jubilation among Liverpool fans who have rallied behind the winger in the nine days since his dad’s horror kidnapping.

And his extended family watched on at home – with a short clip from his grandparent’s home showing a crowd cheering.

They can be heard screaming and pumping their fists while huddled around a television.

The Liverpool star broke his silence with an emotional social media appeal.

The 26-year-old, referring to his father by his nickname “Mane” wrote on Instagram: “This is not Luis Diaz the player speaking.

“Today it is the son of Luis Manuel Diaz speaking.

“Mane, my dad, is a hard-working family man, the pillar of our family and he’s been kidnapped.

“I ask the ELN for the prompt release of my father, and I ask international organisations to work together for his freedom

“Every second, every minute, our anguish grows.

“My mother, my brothers and I are desperate, distressed and without words to describe what we are feeling.

“This suffering will only end when we have him back home.

“I beg you to release him immediately, respecting his integrity and ending this painful wait as soon as possible.

“In the name of love and compassion, we ask you to reconsider your actions and allow us to have him back.

“I thank Colombians and the international community for the support received, thank you for so many demonstrations of affection and solidarity in this difficult time that many families in my country find themselves experiencing.”

 

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Manchester United star Antony mesmerizes in an electrifying partnership with GQ for an enchanting ‘Ghost Light’ photoshoot, setting the stage ablaze with style and intrigue.”

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Manchester United star Antony mesmerizes in an electrifying partnership with GQ for an enchanting ‘Ghost Light’ photoshoot, setting the stage ablaze with style and intrigue.

Man United star Antony recently teamed up with renowned fashion magazine GQ for a captivating photoshoot. Titled “Ghost Light,” the collaboration showcases Martial’s innate sense of style and cool demeanor.

The Brazil winger effortlessly embodies the essence of a modern fashion icon, posing confidently in a variety of sleek and edgy ensembles under mysterious lights.

Antony’s partnership with GQ highlights his versatility not only as a footballer but also as a style influencer.

With his magnetic presence and natural charm, Antony continues to captivate both on and off the field, solidifying his position as a true trendsetter in the world of sports and fashion.

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Inside Kobbie Mainoo’s muscle transformation that Man Utd coaches believed he can reach the top

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‘TRANSFORMER’: Inside Kobbie Mainoo’s muscle transformation that Man Utd coaches believed he can reach the top

MANCHESTER UNITED starlet Kobbie Mainoo has undergone a dramatic body transformation in recent years.

The 18-year-old academy product has been slowly phased into the first-team by manager Erik ten Hag this season.

Mainoo – pictured here playing for the U18s in 2021 – was once a small and ‘wiry’ player according to a former coach

Mainoo has shown composure and skill well beyond his years, so much so that segments of the Old Trafford faithful have called on Ten Hag to regularly start him.

One United fan claimed “he’s going straight to the top” after seeing him turn in a solid display.

 

The teenager hasn’t looked out of place and already looks capable of handling the physical demands of his position.

His strength is the result of gruelling workouts and a nutritious diet, which have well and truly done away with his once “wiry” frame.

Kobbie Mainoo of Manchester United during the Premier League match at Goodison Park, Liverpool. 

Mainoo’s transformation over the years has stunned many, including Cheadle and FC Gately’s academy chief Steve Vare – who has known him since the tender age of five.

He told the Manchester Evening News: “I went to the Youth Cup final. He’s almost unrecognisable.

“As he’s a big lad now and he was only tiny when he was at Cheadle and Gatley.

“My description of him at the time was wiry, he was really strong and very quick off the mark

“He was one of those that pushed the ball past a player and he would be electric, in terms of how he could spring forward.

“He’s a tall lad now and I thought he had a really great game against Nottingham Forest in the Youth Cup final.

“I sometimes wind my kids up by saying I coached him and they say ‘only for a short space of time’.

“Cheadle and Gatley obviously only played a small part in his development and as with anything in grassroots, it’s just a foundation for the youngsters.

“But everyone at Cheadle and Gatley are absolutely delighted for him and it’s great to see him doing so well.”

In their 3-0 victory over relegation-threatened Everton last weekend, Mainoo gave his best performance while wearing a United shirt.

Paul Scholes, a Red Devils great, is also persuaded by his recent performances that he deserves a longer stint with the team.

Speaking after United’s 3-3 draw with Galatasaray, he said: “I think Mainoo needs a run in the team.

“And from what we saw at Everton on Sunday, I think now it’s time to give him a chance.

“This back four, they need protecting. No one senses danger as much as this young lad.

“On Sunday, in a hostile atmosphere, he looked the real deal. I don’t see anyone else being able to protect the back four like he can do.”

Mainoo and his United team-mate’s will be back in action on Saturday night, travelling to St James’ Park to take on Newcastle.

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Inside the luxurious mansion of Liverpool No. 1 goalkeeper Allison Becker and his lovely family – the mega mansion has with pool, cinema room and triple garage for the supercars

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Inside the luxurious mansion of Liverpool No. 1 goalkeeper Allison Becker and his lovely family – the mega mansion has with pool, cinema room and triple garage for the supercars

Alisson Becker

Alisson Becker

We discovered three of the coziest pads suitable for Alisson and his small family, since Liverpool’s newest addition is rumored to be searching for an opulent Merseyside house.

It is highly likely that the Brazilian goalkeeper, who recently signed a £67 million contract with Liverpool, will be evaluating residences nearby.

Undoubtedly, Alisson and his young family—which includes his 25-year-old wife Natalia Loewe and infant Helena—will be searching for a home.

With Alisson, 25, expected to earn a handsome salary each week, any of these opulent residences would be within easy reach for Liverpool’s newest goalkeeper.

Situated on a posh street in Merseyside, this contemporary Formby property has an eye-watering £2.4 million price tag.

Pictures taken inside the expansive five-bedroom home, which is listed with Karen Parks estate agents, show that it is a far-from-humble residence suited for footballing royalty.

Comfortable pads line Shireburn Road, which is tucked away down a quiet private street and looks out over Formby Golf Club.

This magnificent 5,600-square-foot property, which sits on a half-acre of private grounds, has five bedrooms, five bathrooms, and a hot tub.

The contemporary home has all the newest technology, including a Sonos music system, CCTV, and remote-controlled heating.

The apartment contains state-of-the-art appliances such as a wifi oven and a remote-controlled fireplace. The master bedroom features LED mood lighting.

In addition to having planning approval to construct a luxurious indoor recreation complex featuring a pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, and gym, the property also has a home theater and surround sound system.

Located near “Millionaire’s Row,” one of Liverpool’s most affluent postcodes, this five-bedroom home is unquestionably WAG-worthy.

Colette Gunter is selling the expansive family house, which features a luxurious layout and contemporary interiors ideal for a young family.

The home features a big entrance hall with a gorgeous tier chandelier, as well as a wine store and movie theater.

If Alisson and his family decide to move to Formby, this beachfront house would be the ideal place for them to call home.

The property, which is concealed behind two guarded entrances, might be the ideal retreat for the new Liverpool player.

Although it is the most reasonably priced of the three dream homes at less than a million pounds, most prospective homeowners will still be unable to afford it.

Brazilian players at Liverpool FC, including Lucas Leiva, Fábio Aurélio, and Philippe Coutinho, have always had a soft spot for Woolton.

This opulent home might be the ideal option if Alisson and his family decide to settle down in the quiet South Liverpool neighborhood.

This five-bedroom home, which is listed with Jones and Chapman, has a movie room and a “swim spa” in the backyard.

With a private gym available for Alisson to use if he needs to fit in any additional training sessions, this luxurious L25 pad boasts a contemporary kitchen that opens up to the back of the house.

 

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GOOD NEWS: Man United received ‘HUGE’ boost when welcoming back Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw in latest training session

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GOOD NEWS: Man United received ‘HUGE’ boost when welcoming back Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw in latest training session

Manchester United’s squad returned to Carrington today as they prepare for their Premier League return this weekend.

Sunday’s trip to Everton will be an opportunity for the Reds to add another three points to their tally as they try to close the gap on the top four. United enter the fixture at Goodison Park sixth, five points off Tottenham Hotspur but are having to deal with a number of injuries in their squad.

 

Lisandro Martinez

Manchester United fans are feeling positive after a bright development concerning centre-back Lisandro Martinez.

 

Before the international break, manager Erik ten Hag offered the glum news that neither Casemiro or Lisandro Martinez will be back before Christmas.

However, there is a chance that Lisandro Martinez will return rather quickly in this instance.

Even if the center-back was just performing light work during his training at Carrington, it was still a step in the right direction.

Lisandro Martinez was pictured sporting a new look. Gone is the bleached blonde hair, with the World Cup winning defender growing out his natural colour instead.

A new look for a new start. It makes sense, with ‘The Butcher’ looking to reset, and rejoin the Manchester United first team as quickly as possible.

 

While he was not with the first team for a full training session, he was spotted interacting with his teammates. He’s clearly desperate to get back involved, and they will also be pleased to have him back around the place.

LUkE SHAW iS BACK

Luke Shaw

Luke Shaw training with Man United teammates

There was a more immediate boost for Manchester United, with Luke Shaw rejoining the first team training session. And his hair looks neater

The defender for the England national team will be considered for selection for this weekend’s match against Everton. He will provide the defense—and the attack, too—a much-needed boost.

Martinez ought to be here in a few weeks, and Shaw’s return at this point is highly advantageous.

Garnacho

Garnacho

We sincerely hope that he is not brought back too soon by Manchester United. Since the illness was a relapse of the problem that interrupted his 2022–2023 season, the team’s medical staff will exercise particular caution this time around.

 

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Man Utd star Diogo Dalot beams as walk his dog through Cheshire with girlfriend

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Man Utd star Diogo Dalot beams as walk his dog through Cheshire with girlfriend

MANCHESTER UNITED star Diogo Dalot has been spotted walking his dog through Cheshire

Portugal player resumed some semblance of regular routine by taking his canine for a stroll around the neighbourhood.

 Dalot took a stroll through his Cheshire neighbourhoodDalot took a stroll through his Cheshire neighbourhood with girlfriend

19.3.20… Manchester United’s Diogo Dalot who left training early on the 11th March is seen walking his dog through Hale Village in Cheshire on Thursday morning.

The streets were deserted as Dalot, as much as the dog, was able to benefit from some fresh air and to stretch his legs.

19.3.20… Manchester United’s Diogo Dalot  is seen walking his dog through Hale Village in Cheshire on Thursday morning.

The Portuguese defender cost £19million when he was signed by the Red Devils from Porto back in 2018.

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