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The Irish Sun
a day ago
- Sport
- The Irish Sun
Arsenal transfer news LIVE: ‘Eze release clause' update, Gyokeres set for Gunners DEBUT, Saliba contract latest
ARSENAL have a huge summer of change on their hands - and there are some huge deals are in the pipeline! The Gunners have received a blow in their pursuit of Advertisement In other news, the Gunners are set to clash Spurs in pre-season, Elsewhere, SUN VEGAS WELCOME OFFER: GET £50 BONUS WHEN YOU JOIN Follow ALL of the latest news, rumours and transfer updates from the Emirates below... Advertisement By Odegaard helping Gyokeres Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is helping Viktor Gyokeres settle into life at the club. With the language and everything, it's been easier for me to help him. We can speak our own language. Scandinavians, they always bond well together. So, in that way, it's been really natural. But to be fair, it's like with any player. Every new player, we try to help them in the best possible way. That's what I felt when I came here. I felt at home straight away. I felt how good the culture and environment was to get into. Everyone just wants to help you and get the best out of you. Then it's important also how you do things off the pitch. That's what we all do. So, we're just here to help. So far, he's having a good time, I think. I think you've all seen what he's done in his career so far. Especially the last season at Sporting, the numbers speak for themselves. He's a very complete player. He's physical, strong, fast, good finisher, and intelligent as well. I think he's a very complete striker. You can also see the hunger, the energy he brings. I'm really excited to have him with the team. He's only trained a few times, but you can already see the quality, the energy, and the willingness. I'm excited to have a pitch with him. Martin Odegaard Arsenal Copy link Copied By Training pics The latest training pics from Arsenal's pre-season tour have been released. Copy link Copied By Premier League schedule Here is a look at Arsenal's schedule for the Premier League campaign. Copy link Copied By Auba medical set Former Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is set to return to Europe. The striker is jetting into France TODAY in order to finalise his return to Ligue 1 side Marseille. Reports have claimed he has agreed a two-year deal and will have a medical on Thursday. Copy link Copied By Classic wins over Spurs Here is a list of classic Arsenal wins over Tottenham ahead of tomorrow's derby. Arsenal 3-1 Tottenham, November 1996 Arsenal 3-0 Tottenham, November 2002 Arsenal 5-2 Tottenham, February 2012 Arsenal 5-2 Tottenham, November 2012 Arsenal 3-1 Tottenham, October 2022 Copy link Copied By Xhaka returns to England Granit Xhaka has returned to the Premier League, having joined Sunderland from Bayer Leverkusen. The former Arsenal midfielder has signed a three-year deal at the Stadium of Light. However, unless there is a cup draw, the Swiss ace won't be back at the Emirates until February 7. Copy link Copied By Vieira wanted Fabio Vieira could be on his way out of Arsenal this summer but to another Premier League side. Reports have claimed that the midfielder is on West Ham United's shortlist this summer. Vieira spent last season on loan at Porto and is not in Mikel Arteta's plans. Copy link Copied By When do Arsenal face Tottenham? Arsenal will take on arch-rivals in their third match of pre-season. It will be the first North London derby to take place outside of England. The match will take place on Thursday evening at 12.30pm UK time at the Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong. Copy link Copied By Boxing legend's son joins David Haye's sporting legacy is showing no sign of slowing down after his 11-year-old son Kingston Haye joined Arsenal's academy. Kingston, a rising star, joins As a midfielder he has already caught the attention of scouts, many of whom are predicting a bright Kingston's technical ability, vision and ball control have earned him a reputation as one of the most promising talents around, which has now led to his move to North London. His ability to dictate play from the middle of the park has drawn comparisons to some of the top young footballers in Europe and Arsenal's faith in his potential has been rewarded with a junior contract. Copy link Copied By Spurs up next Arsenal have a mouthwatering pre-season clash against rivals Tottenham tomorrow afternoon. The friendly gets underway from 12.30pm UK time over in Hong Kong. And Viktor Gyokeres is set to make his debut. Copy link Copied By Eze wait Arsenal are unlikely to sign Eberechi Eze until the end of the transfer window, it's been claimed. The north Londoners are hestitant to pay Crystal Palace's asking price for their England international winger. And according to The Athletic, the Arsenal brass plan to wait and see if Palace drop their valuation of their star man before tabling a bid. Copy link Copied By Five up for grabs Arsenal are willing to let FIVE players leave the Emirates before the season gets underway next month, according to reports. Football London claim Albert Lokonga, Fabio Vieira, Karl Hein, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Reiss Nelson could all be move on in the coming weeks. Vieira, Zinchenko and Nelson have all fallen down the pecking order over the last season and a half and have had limited first-team football as a result Vieira and Zinchenko have both been linked with West Ham while Nelson could return to Fulham. Copy link Copied By Ramsdale deal Newcastle have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Aaron Ramsdale. Sky Sports have claime that the former Arsenal stopper will join the Magpies on a loan deal with an option to buy in 2026. Southampton have given him permission to travel for his medical on Wednesday. Copy link Copied By Touching down Arsenal's stars have touched down in Hong Kong ahead of the first ever North London Derby to be played outside of England. The players have arrived at the team hotel before the match on Thursday. Stars such as Declan Rice and Max Dowman could be seen signing autographs and posing for pictures with fans. Copy link Copied By Auba medical set Former Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is set to return to Europe. The striker is jetting in to France TOMORROW in order to finalise his return to Ligue 1 side Marseille. Reports have claimed he has agreed a two-year deal and will have a medical on Thursday. Copy link Copied By Potential line-ups Here is a look at how Arsenal could line-up during the 2025/26 Premier League season... Copy link Copied By Gyokeres effect Arsenal fans have bought Viktor Gyokeres shirts in record numbers. The Athletic have claimed that the Swede has broken record for shirts sold at the Gunners. Copy link Copied By Frank praise Spurs boss Thomas Frank has also labelled Arsenal as "one of the best I think it is a great challenge, besides being our biggest rivals and the first north London derby outside the UK. It is also right now one of the best teams, I must say unfortunately, in the world. We also need to be honest. In that way it is going to be a big test, but it is more than a test as against Arsenal it is not only a friendly. Of course it is a game we will do everything we can to win. Thomas Frank Copy link Copied By Trossard wanted Leandro Trossard is reportedly wanted by Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund. The Arsenal star is holding off on signing a new contract at the Emirates. And reports have now claimed that Dortmund could make a move for the Belgian before the end of the transfer window. Copy link Copied By Frank ready for Gunners Thomas Frank has insisted he is relaxed ahead of his first North London derby against Arsenal. I have a great feeling, I think it's going to be a great challenge, we all know that. It's a north London derby, the first outside the UK, and we're looking forward to it in front of all our fans here. We'll be ready for it. I'm quite relaxed about it. The better opponents we can play will help us get up to the level we want to be in three weeks' time. For me, it's a fantastic test. Thomas Frank SPURSPLAY Copy link Copied By Arsenal fixtures Here is a look at Arsenal's fixtures for the 2025/26 Premier League campaign. Copy link Copied By Wright or wrong Arsenal have missed out on the signing of exciting prospect Will Wright. The Salford City wonderkid has completed a move to Liverpool despite being linked to the Gunners. The Athletic have previously claimed that the North London side had agreed a deal of at least £200,000. Copy link Copied By New boys in action Viktor Gyokeres and Cristhian Mosquera got to grips with one another in the first training session since joining the Gunners. Copy link Copied By Prem clubs eye Trossard Leandro Trossard in on the radar of two Premier League clubs. The Gunners are open to cashing in on the Belgium international - despite having held talks with him over a new deal. And according to Sky Germany, the 30-year-old has "two concrete" offers from Prem clubs on the table. Copy link Copied By Palace identify Eze replacement Crystal Palace reportedly have a replacement for Eberechi Eze in mind if he joins Arsenal. The Gunners are keen to make the England international their SEVENTH signing of what has been a busy summer transfer window. And according to Foot Mercato, the Eagles have earmarked Leicester City ace Bilal El Khannouss as a potential replacement for Eze should he move on to pastures new. Copy link Copied 1 …
Sydney Morning Herald
5 days ago
- Sydney Morning Herald
Which European destination is best? We rate and rank the key rivals
Travel trends come and go (hello, Japan) but some destinations never fall out of favour. Australians' love affair with Europe is so enduring that each year, hundreds of thousands of us sit inside a plane for 24 hours for the opportunity to experience and explore this beguiling continent. For many, it's the diversity that is addictive. Europe is a place where you can have a sun-soaked summer holiday or throw yourself into an array of snow sports in the winter. It's a place where you can dip in and out of countless cultures, from the design-forward, down-to-earth style of the Scandinavians to the chilled-out charm of the Mediterranean. Spend enough time in Europe, however, and you will realise that some destinations share a lot in common – and that means making some hard choices. If you want some sun-drenched summer fun with a side serve of history, should you go island hopping in Greece or instead spend some time exploring Turkey's Aegean coast? Or perhaps you are hankering for an alpine adventure fuelled by schnitzel and strudel. In that case, obviously Austria is calling – unless, that is, Germany would be a better option? If you are unsure of which European country to tick off next, we have taken the guesswork out of it, with a series of bouts between the continent's travel titans to see which ones qualify as the continent's all-time travel champions. LATIN FLAIR The case for Portugal Lisbon has a way of seducing you with its pastel-painted houses and hand-crafted tiles, its imposing churches and its eye-catching street art. Those lively neighbourhoods made for strolling, from buzzing Chiado to atmospheric Alfama, are difficult to resist, as is all that fabulous food (bring on the custard tarts). But the charisma of Portugal's compact capital often overshadows the country's other attractions. There is the pretty riverside city of Porto, the lush vineyards of the Douro Valley, and the grand gardens and palaces of Sintra, including Palacio da Pena with its golden onion domes. And if you want some seaside action, Portugal takes some beating. Relax on the sandy beaches of Alentejo and the Algarve or head for the islands: either the Atlantic isles of the Azores or far-flung Madeira, floating off the north-west coast of Africa. See The case for Spain What gets your travel motors running? Is it monuments and museums, historic cities and ornate pleasure palaces, fantastic food, long-distance hikes or lively nightlife? Whatever tops your list, Spain delivers in spades. There are wonders such as Barcelona's Sagrada Familia cathedral and the Alhambra in Granada, art galleries filled with masterpieces by Picasso, Miro and more. Madrid has amazing tapas trails, Seville has fiery, flamboyant flamenco, and islands such as Mallorca and Ibiza are perfect for summer getaways. Perhaps Spain's greatest treasure, however, is the endless array of inviting towns and villages scattered across the country. From Merida with its Roman monuments, to Oviedo, where its strong connection to Celtic culture leans towards bagpipes and ciders, you will run out of time before you run out of places to explore. See And the winner is Portugal gets points for being more affordable, but Spain's abundant attractions make it the clear winner. ISLAND DELIGHTS The case for Malta It's difficult to define Malta, a country where English is one of the official languages, where the local cuisine blends Italian and Arabic influences, and where civilisations from the Phoenicians to the Greeks, the Romans to the Arabs, have all left an imprint. In summer, beachgoers flock to the main island of Malta and its smaller neighbours, Gozo and Comino, but Malta is worth visiting all year round. The capital, Valletta, has gorgeous baroque architecture, a stunner of a cathedral (with two Caravaggio canvases inside) and magnificent ramparts, while other settlements such as Mdina and Gozo's capital, Victoria, are also delightful. And if you love prehistory, you will be awed by sites such as the World Heritage-listed necropolis of Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, and seven megalithic temples that are older than Egypt's pyramids. See The case for Sicily So you watched season two of The White Lotus and you think you have got a handle on Sicily? Think again. On an island blessed with plenty of spectacular locations, the show managed to miss some of the best. Where were the Greek temples at Agrigento, or the baroque cities such as Ortygia, Catania and Modica? There were glimpses of Palermo's shabby-chic old town and Sicily's lost-in-time mountain villages, but the island's impressive collection of Byzantine mosaics, from the cathedral at Monreale to Palermo's breathtaking Palatine Chapel, were completely absent. And let's not forget the local food and wine. Sicily is Italy's second-largest wine producing region (look for nero d'avola and nerello mascalese), while the island's distinctive cuisine – including delicious street food such as arancini and the Sicilian-style pizza sfincione – is worth diving into. See And the winner is The makers of The White Lotus got one thing right – Sicily is a dream destination, even if you are not staying in the lap of luxury. SCANDIC SENSATIONS The case for Norway One of the reasons we love Norway is its way of defying expectations. If you are not a hike-this, climb-that traveller, you might think Norway, with its endless outdoor adventures, is off the menu. But most of the country's stunning fjords, mountains and islands – not to mention scenic villages and towns such as Bergen – can be explored in a low-impact way. There are jaw-dropping drives such as Trollstigen, a steep, switch-backing road that is a triumph of engineering, and don't miss rail trips such as the incredible Flam railway. As for only being worth visiting in the warmer months, think again. That long dark winter is luring increasing numbers of travellers who want to marvel at the Northern Lights and get stuck into snowy activities of all kinds. And if you lean more towards cultural activities than active adventures? Well, Norway has you covered too, with a wealth of museums and some eye-catching modern architecture, including Oslo's opera house and public library. See The case for Denmark What a difference two decades makes. Back in 2004, when a young Tasmanian married into the Danish royal family, Denmark wasn't on the radar for many Australian travellers. But then a culinary explosion led by Noma chef René Redzepi turned Copenhagen into a global dining hotspot. Not long after, the world fell in love with the convivial Danish concept of hygge, and suddenly, we were all wise to what a great destination Denmark is. The sheer liveability of a country where bikes outnumber cars in the capital, and where design is woven into everyday life, make Denmark an inspiring place to visit. Innovative Copenhagen, with its urban farms and floating student housing, is the obvious place to start but allows time to tick off some of the country's other sights, from the charming city of Aarhus to Jutland's whisky distilleries and oyster farmers. See And the winner is Neither of these countries are budget-friendly, but both of them make for a memorable holiday. We're calling this one a tie. The case for Turkey Let's start – where else? – with Istanbul. You could argue that this glorious city straddling two continents, with its mighty palaces and its bustling bazaar, is enough to steal the crown for Turkey. But should you need further persuasion, Turkey's arsenal includes plenty of other heavy-hitters. Take Cappadocia, where you can drift over the striking 'fairy chimney' rock formations in a hot air balloon and explore an underground city on the same day, or Ephesus, one of the greatest of all Roman ruins. There are the glittering beauties of Turkey's Aegean shores, the long-distance hike that is the Lycian Way, the surreal stepped pools of Pamukkale and the banquet of delights that is Turkish cuisine. Throw in the indulgence of a traditional hammam, and you have one heck of a holiday. See The case for Greece If you were trying to reduce the appeal of Greece to a simple formula, you might start with two numbers: 227 and 2078. The former is the number of major islands that make up the country, islands that have made Greece a holiday hotspot for luxury and budget travellers alike. And that second number? That's the age of the Parthenon, the signature site of the ancient civilisation that in many ways helped shape how we live today. But there is a lot more to Greece than islands and ruins and eating super-fresh seafood in rustic tavernas. In the north you have the lively city of Thessaloniki and the majestic clifftop monasteries at Meteora; down south you will find the Peloponnese, Greece's most underrated region, with its fortified city of Monemvasia, ruins like ancient Mycenae and medieval Mystras, and the wild Mani Peninsula. See And the winner is Turkey takes the crown for the sheer range of its offerings. The fact that its lighter on your wallet doesn't hurt either. LITTLE WONDERS The case for Belgium If you've never been to Belgium, here's a tip. On landing in Brussels, head straight for the Grand Place, one of Europe's most imposing public squares, and you'll be kicking yourself that you didn't make it here sooner. In fact, the longer you spend here, the more you will fall for the city's manifold delights, from vivid street art to some astounding art nouveau buildings, not to mention culinary treats from waffles to beer, mussels to some of the best chocolate on the planet. And it's not just Brussels. Belgium has a surfeit of cities that you will fall in love with, including stylish Antwerp (home to a jaw-dropping train station), Ghent and Brugge, or Bruges, each one hiding plenty of surprises within its cobblestoned streets. Best of all, each city is just a short ride away from the next on the country's efficient rail network. See The case for the Netherlands Like Santorini and Barcelona, pretty-as-a-picture Amsterdam has been struggling with overtourism, so it's about time we took a hard look at the rest of the country. And it turns out the Netherlands has plenty of other places that will steal your heart. Groningen combines the energy of a university town with cityscapes that include canals, ancient churches and colourful markets, while Maastricht's lovely city centre sits atop a series of underground caves. (Bibliophiles will also want to check out one of the loveliest bookstores in the world, Boekhandel Dominicanen, housed in an old church.) Other picturesque options include the town of Delft and the village of Giethoorn, while the country's rich artistic heritage – which includes painters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Hals and Bruegel – is felt everywhere. Even Rotterdam, once an eyesore of an industrial port, has reinvented itself as a forward-thinking city with eye-catching architecture and serious sustainability cred. See And the winner is Belgium is simply irresistible, and not just for the chocolate, we promise. TEUTONIC TITANS The case for Austria Some countries are all about the great outdoors; others focus on the finer things in life. Austria delivers epic doses of both. Start in Vienna, with its imperial Habsburg grandeur, its concert halls filled with the strains of Mozart and Bach and Strauss, its old-school coffee houses and its world-class museums. Then head out to the Alps for glaciers and ski slopes (should you be travelling in summer, the hiking is just as memorable). And that's only the start. The cities of Salzburg and Innsbruck are baroque beauties surrounded by soaring peaks, but Austria's lesser-known destinations are just as enchanting. Head south for a stay in Graz, where the architecture has a distinct Italianate slant and where wineries flourish; explore the Wachau Valley, on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its beauty; or dive into the turquoise lakes of the Salzkammergut region. See The case for Germany If Germany were a piece of clothing, it would be the proverbial navy blazer – the one that goes with everything. There is something here to suit every type of traveller, depending on which part of the country you choose to visit. Head to Bavaria for awesome mountains and the regal capital of Munich with its breweries and beer gardens, sample fine wines as you cruise along the Rhine, or head up to the underexplored Baltic coast, with its pine forests, sandy beaches and red-brick Gothic architecture. You might get active hiking the Black Forest; overdose on palaces in Potsdam; discover cutting-edge design in Leipzig; or marvel at the expressionist architecture of Bremen's Bottcherstrasse. And that's before we even get to Berlin, Europe's most unpredictable, and perhaps most intoxicating, city. See And the winner is Given it is four times the size of its neighbour, it's perhaps no surprise that Germany takes the crown. FIVE MORE CLASSIC EURO MATCH-UPS Hungary v Czechia Two countries, one problem: their capital cities are so appealing that few people look beyond them. In Hungary, add a few days onto your Budapest stay to allow a side trip to Lake Balaton; In Czechia, make time to enjoy the medieval charm of Cesky Krumlov. See Loading Croatia v Montenegro Croatia, with its crystal clear waters and historic sights cities such as Dubrovnik and Split, was the first Balkan nation to be discovered by tourists. That's now changing, as tiny Montenegro wins fans with its beautiful beaches and mountains. See Latvia v Lithuania These Baltic belles have much in common, from medieval cities and a complex Cold War history to lush forests, lakes and coasts. The Lithuanian capital of Vilnius is this year's European Green Capital, while the memorable architecture of Riga, the Latvian capital, includes some astonishing art nouveau buildings. See Kosovo vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Two of Europe's smallest (and youngest) countries have fraught histories, but both are also underrated destinations. The Bosnian capital of Sarajevo is a real East-West melting pot, while Kosovo's capital of Pristina makes for a surprisingly lively city break. See
The Age
5 days ago
- The Age
Which European destination is best? We rate and rank the key rivals
Travel trends come and go (hello, Japan) but some destinations never fall out of favour. Australians' love affair with Europe is so enduring that each year, hundreds of thousands of us sit inside a plane for 24 hours for the opportunity to experience and explore this beguiling continent. For many, it's the diversity that is addictive. Europe is a place where you can have a sun-soaked summer holiday or throw yourself into an array of snow sports in the winter. It's a place where you can dip in and out of countless cultures, from the design-forward, down-to-earth style of the Scandinavians to the chilled-out charm of the Mediterranean. Spend enough time in Europe, however, and you will realise that some destinations share a lot in common – and that means making some hard choices. If you want some sun-drenched summer fun with a side serve of history, should you go island hopping in Greece or instead spend some time exploring Turkey's Aegean coast? Or perhaps you are hankering for an alpine adventure fuelled by schnitzel and strudel. In that case, obviously Austria is calling – unless, that is, Germany would be a better option? If you are unsure of which European country to tick off next, we have taken the guesswork out of it, with a series of bouts between the continent's travel titans to see which ones qualify as the continent's all-time travel champions. LATIN FLAIR The case for Portugal Lisbon has a way of seducing you with its pastel-painted houses and hand-crafted tiles, its imposing churches and its eye-catching street art. Those lively neighbourhoods made for strolling, from buzzing Chiado to atmospheric Alfama, are difficult to resist, as is all that fabulous food (bring on the custard tarts). But the charisma of Portugal's compact capital often overshadows the country's other attractions. There is the pretty riverside city of Porto, the lush vineyards of the Douro Valley, and the grand gardens and palaces of Sintra, including Palacio da Pena with its golden onion domes. And if you want some seaside action, Portugal takes some beating. Relax on the sandy beaches of Alentejo and the Algarve or head for the islands: either the Atlantic isles of the Azores or far-flung Madeira, floating off the north-west coast of Africa. See The case for Spain What gets your travel motors running? Is it monuments and museums, historic cities and ornate pleasure palaces, fantastic food, long-distance hikes or lively nightlife? Whatever tops your list, Spain delivers in spades. There are wonders such as Barcelona's Sagrada Familia cathedral and the Alhambra in Granada, art galleries filled with masterpieces by Picasso, Miro and more. Madrid has amazing tapas trails, Seville has fiery, flamboyant flamenco, and islands such as Mallorca and Ibiza are perfect for summer getaways. Perhaps Spain's greatest treasure, however, is the endless array of inviting towns and villages scattered across the country. From Merida with its Roman monuments, to Oviedo, where its strong connection to Celtic culture leans towards bagpipes and ciders, you will run out of time before you run out of places to explore. See And the winner is Portugal gets points for being more affordable, but Spain's abundant attractions make it the clear winner. ISLAND DELIGHTS The case for Malta It's difficult to define Malta, a country where English is one of the official languages, where the local cuisine blends Italian and Arabic influences, and where civilisations from the Phoenicians to the Greeks, the Romans to the Arabs, have all left an imprint. In summer, beachgoers flock to the main island of Malta and its smaller neighbours, Gozo and Comino, but Malta is worth visiting all year round. The capital, Valletta, has gorgeous baroque architecture, a stunner of a cathedral (with two Caravaggio canvases inside) and magnificent ramparts, while other settlements such as Mdina and Gozo's capital, Victoria, are also delightful. And if you love prehistory, you will be awed by sites such as the World Heritage-listed necropolis of Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, and seven megalithic temples that are older than Egypt's pyramids. See The case for Sicily So you watched season two of The White Lotus and you think you have got a handle on Sicily? Think again. On an island blessed with plenty of spectacular locations, the show managed to miss some of the best. Where were the Greek temples at Agrigento, or the baroque cities such as Ortygia, Catania and Modica? There were glimpses of Palermo's shabby-chic old town and Sicily's lost-in-time mountain villages, but the island's impressive collection of Byzantine mosaics, from the cathedral at Monreale to Palermo's breathtaking Palatine Chapel, were completely absent. And let's not forget the local food and wine. Sicily is Italy's second-largest wine producing region (look for nero d'avola and nerello mascalese), while the island's distinctive cuisine – including delicious street food such as arancini and the Sicilian-style pizza sfincione – is worth diving into. See And the winner is The makers of The White Lotus got one thing right – Sicily is a dream destination, even if you are not staying in the lap of luxury. SCANDIC SENSATIONS The case for Norway One of the reasons we love Norway is its way of defying expectations. If you are not a hike-this, climb-that traveller, you might think Norway, with its endless outdoor adventures, is off the menu. But most of the country's stunning fjords, mountains and islands – not to mention scenic villages and towns such as Bergen – can be explored in a low-impact way. There are jaw-dropping drives such as Trollstigen, a steep, switch-backing road that is a triumph of engineering, and don't miss rail trips such as the incredible Flam railway. As for only being worth visiting in the warmer months, think again. That long dark winter is luring increasing numbers of travellers who want to marvel at the Northern Lights and get stuck into snowy activities of all kinds. And if you lean more towards cultural activities than active adventures? Well, Norway has you covered too, with a wealth of museums and some eye-catching modern architecture, including Oslo's opera house and public library. See The case for Denmark What a difference two decades makes. Back in 2004, when a young Tasmanian married into the Danish royal family, Denmark wasn't on the radar for many Australian travellers. But then a culinary explosion led by Noma chef René Redzepi turned Copenhagen into a global dining hotspot. Not long after, the world fell in love with the convivial Danish concept of hygge, and suddenly, we were all wise to what a great destination Denmark is. The sheer liveability of a country where bikes outnumber cars in the capital, and where design is woven into everyday life, make Denmark an inspiring place to visit. Innovative Copenhagen, with its urban farms and floating student housing, is the obvious place to start but allows time to tick off some of the country's other sights, from the charming city of Aarhus to Jutland's whisky distilleries and oyster farmers. See And the winner is Neither of these countries are budget-friendly, but both of them make for a memorable holiday. We're calling this one a tie. The case for Turkey Let's start – where else? – with Istanbul. You could argue that this glorious city straddling two continents, with its mighty palaces and its bustling bazaar, is enough to steal the crown for Turkey. But should you need further persuasion, Turkey's arsenal includes plenty of other heavy-hitters. Take Cappadocia, where you can drift over the striking 'fairy chimney' rock formations in a hot air balloon and explore an underground city on the same day, or Ephesus, one of the greatest of all Roman ruins. There are the glittering beauties of Turkey's Aegean shores, the long-distance hike that is the Lycian Way, the surreal stepped pools of Pamukkale and the banquet of delights that is Turkish cuisine. Throw in the indulgence of a traditional hammam, and you have one heck of a holiday. See The case for Greece If you were trying to reduce the appeal of Greece to a simple formula, you might start with two numbers: 227 and 2078. The former is the number of major islands that make up the country, islands that have made Greece a holiday hotspot for luxury and budget travellers alike. And that second number? That's the age of the Parthenon, the signature site of the ancient civilisation that in many ways helped shape how we live today. But there is a lot more to Greece than islands and ruins and eating super-fresh seafood in rustic tavernas. In the north you have the lively city of Thessaloniki and the majestic clifftop monasteries at Meteora; down south you will find the Peloponnese, Greece's most underrated region, with its fortified city of Monemvasia, ruins like ancient Mycenae and medieval Mystras, and the wild Mani Peninsula. See And the winner is Turkey takes the crown for the sheer range of its offerings. The fact that its lighter on your wallet doesn't hurt either. LITTLE WONDERS The case for Belgium If you've never been to Belgium, here's a tip. On landing in Brussels, head straight for the Grand Place, one of Europe's most imposing public squares, and you'll be kicking yourself that you didn't make it here sooner. In fact, the longer you spend here, the more you will fall for the city's manifold delights, from vivid street art to some astounding art nouveau buildings, not to mention culinary treats from waffles to beer, mussels to some of the best chocolate on the planet. And it's not just Brussels. Belgium has a surfeit of cities that you will fall in love with, including stylish Antwerp (home to a jaw-dropping train station), Ghent and Brugge, or Bruges, each one hiding plenty of surprises within its cobblestoned streets. Best of all, each city is just a short ride away from the next on the country's efficient rail network. See The case for the Netherlands Like Santorini and Barcelona, pretty-as-a-picture Amsterdam has been struggling with overtourism, so it's about time we took a hard look at the rest of the country. And it turns out the Netherlands has plenty of other places that will steal your heart. Groningen combines the energy of a university town with cityscapes that include canals, ancient churches and colourful markets, while Maastricht's lovely city centre sits atop a series of underground caves. (Bibliophiles will also want to check out one of the loveliest bookstores in the world, Boekhandel Dominicanen, housed in an old church.) Other picturesque options include the town of Delft and the village of Giethoorn, while the country's rich artistic heritage – which includes painters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Hals and Bruegel – is felt everywhere. Even Rotterdam, once an eyesore of an industrial port, has reinvented itself as a forward-thinking city with eye-catching architecture and serious sustainability cred. See And the winner is Belgium is simply irresistible, and not just for the chocolate, we promise. TEUTONIC TITANS The case for Austria Some countries are all about the great outdoors; others focus on the finer things in life. Austria delivers epic doses of both. Start in Vienna, with its imperial Habsburg grandeur, its concert halls filled with the strains of Mozart and Bach and Strauss, its old-school coffee houses and its world-class museums. Then head out to the Alps for glaciers and ski slopes (should you be travelling in summer, the hiking is just as memorable). And that's only the start. The cities of Salzburg and Innsbruck are baroque beauties surrounded by soaring peaks, but Austria's lesser-known destinations are just as enchanting. Head south for a stay in Graz, where the architecture has a distinct Italianate slant and where wineries flourish; explore the Wachau Valley, on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its beauty; or dive into the turquoise lakes of the Salzkammergut region. See The case for Germany If Germany were a piece of clothing, it would be the proverbial navy blazer – the one that goes with everything. There is something here to suit every type of traveller, depending on which part of the country you choose to visit. Head to Bavaria for awesome mountains and the regal capital of Munich with its breweries and beer gardens, sample fine wines as you cruise along the Rhine, or head up to the underexplored Baltic coast, with its pine forests, sandy beaches and red-brick Gothic architecture. You might get active hiking the Black Forest; overdose on palaces in Potsdam; discover cutting-edge design in Leipzig; or marvel at the expressionist architecture of Bremen's Bottcherstrasse. And that's before we even get to Berlin, Europe's most unpredictable, and perhaps most intoxicating, city. See And the winner is Given it is four times the size of its neighbour, it's perhaps no surprise that Germany takes the crown. FIVE MORE CLASSIC EURO MATCH-UPS Hungary v Czechia Two countries, one problem: their capital cities are so appealing that few people look beyond them. In Hungary, add a few days onto your Budapest stay to allow a side trip to Lake Balaton; In Czechia, make time to enjoy the medieval charm of Cesky Krumlov. See Loading Croatia v Montenegro Croatia, with its crystal clear waters and historic sights cities such as Dubrovnik and Split, was the first Balkan nation to be discovered by tourists. That's now changing, as tiny Montenegro wins fans with its beautiful beaches and mountains. See Latvia v Lithuania These Baltic belles have much in common, from medieval cities and a complex Cold War history to lush forests, lakes and coasts. The Lithuanian capital of Vilnius is this year's European Green Capital, while the memorable architecture of Riga, the Latvian capital, includes some astonishing art nouveau buildings. See Kosovo vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Two of Europe's smallest (and youngest) countries have fraught histories, but both are also underrated destinations. The Bosnian capital of Sarajevo is a real East-West melting pot, while Kosovo's capital of Pristina makes for a surprisingly lively city break. See
The Irish Sun
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Who is England midfielder Ella Toone's boyfriend Joe Bunney?
MAN United midfielder Ella Toone hit the headlines when she said Sweden should "fear" the Lionesses at Euro 2025. The star said the Scandinavians should be 'scared' of the England team before the two sides met in the Euro 2025 quarter-final – but did you know she is also dating a footballer? Advertisement 1 Footballer Ella Toone plays for Manchester United and the England national team Credit: PA Wire Who is Ella Toone's partner Joe Bunney? Ella, 25, is dating However Joe maintains he is Ella's "biggest cheerleader", with a source previously telling The Sun: " "They are both from Manchester and have mutual friends who introduced them. Those who know them think they are the perfect pairing." Fans stunned as BBC presenter asks Lionesses keeper Hannah Hampton about 'tampon up nose' in live TV interview Joe, who has two children from a previous relationship, is also a footballer and currently plays for Stalybridge Celtic. Advertisement Read More on Ella Toone Ella's other half made headlines in March 2025 after Joe Bunney accused Ryan and actress partner Amy Lythgoe of squatting in a flat they rented from him in June 2024. The former Ryan, 36, who plays Ryan Connor on the soap, and Amy, 30, deny the claims and have filed a £60,000 libel and defamation lawsuit at the High Court. Advertisement Most read in Football They claim Joe's post, which was widely circulated before it was deleted, had a devastating impact.
Scottish Sun
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Who is England midfielder Ella Toone's boyfriend Joe Bunney?
The boyfriend of the Lioness branded a soap star 'disgusting' on Instagram MAN United midfielder Ella Toone hit the headlines when she said Sweden should "fear" the Lionesses at Euro 2025. The star said the Scandinavians should be 'scared' of the England team before the two sides met in the Euro 2025 quarter-final – but did you know she is also dating a footballer? 1 Footballer Ella Toone plays for Manchester United and the England national team Credit: PA Wire Who is Ella Toone's partner Joe Bunney? Ella, 25, is dating Joe Bunney, 31, who, awkwardly, is a devoted Manchester City fan. However Joe maintains he is Ella's "biggest cheerleader", with a source previously telling The Sun: "Ella and Joe are very much in love and have been together for a while now. "They are both from Manchester and have mutual friends who introduced them. Those who know them think they are the perfect pairing." Fans stunned as BBC presenter asks Lionesses keeper Hannah Hampton about 'tampon up nose' in live TV interview Joe, who has two children from a previous relationship, is also a footballer and currently plays for Stalybridge Celtic. Read More on Ella Toone SWOONY TOONE Lioness hero Ella Toone's secret boyfriend revealed as footballer Joe Bunney Ella's other half made headlines in March 2025 after Corrie star Ryan Prescott sued him for branding him "disgusting" on Instagram. Joe Bunney accused Ryan and actress partner Amy Lythgoe of squatting in a flat they rented from him in June 2024. The former Bolton Wanderers player, 31, said the tenancy was up and he wanted to move his widowed grandad, 78, who had been left homeless. Ryan, 36, who plays Ryan Connor on the soap, and Amy, 30, deny the claims and have filed a £60,000 libel and defamation lawsuit at the High Court. They claim Joe's post, which was widely circulated before it was deleted, had a devastating impact.
