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Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola dismissed speculation over his future at the club, insisting contract talks are not on the agenda despite rumours he could leave at the end of the season, but added his side were not yet good enough to win the title.
While Guardiola’s team, who host lowly West Ham United on Saturday, could overtake Arsenal for top spot in the Premier League this weekend, the Spaniard’s job status was the hot topic at his pre-game press conference.
“I always get asked this question, so sooner or later I will quit Manchester City,” Guardiola told reporters. “I have 18 months, so I’m so happy with the development of the team. That question is there every single season at some point. Whatever is going to happen will happen.
“They are not discussions. End of the subject. I will not be here forever. What is going to happen will happen. The club must be prepared but that subject is not on the table right now.”
Reports linked Enzo Maresca as a potential successor, although the Chelsea manager dismissed them earlier.
Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has expressed confidence that the team have matured enough to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Nigerian international played an integral role in the 2023 AFCON where the team lost 2-1 to the host Ivory Coast in the final of the tournament.
The Fulham defender, in a chat with the club’s website, stated that Nigeria have what it takes to make a positive impact in Morocco.
“Yeah 100%. I think the last AFCON I was 23.
Read Also:AFCON 2025: Super Eagles Squad List Unveiled
“I have matured and a lot of the team have matured and we have gained a lot of experience.
“So, it would be good for the team and Alex different roles now, he is becoming more of the leadership role.”
Pitted in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda, Nigeria are fancied as one of the favourites to win the competition in Morocco.
The three-time AFCON champions will launch their onslaught for another title against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars on Tuesday in the historical city of Fés, with the added impetus of wanting to appease their teeming fans at home and in the diaspora over failure to qualify for next year’s FIFA World Cup finals in the Far West.
Three days later, it will be a battle of the eagles when the Super Eagles play with the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia, one of their North African rivals. Nigeria’s last group match will see them square off against the Cranes of Uganda on December 30.
Though the 2025 African Cup of Nations, which is the 35th edition, kicks off tomorrow, when host country, Morocco takes on Comoros at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. However, the Super Eagles of Nigeria will not be taking to the turf until Tuesday when they take on the Taifa Stars of Tanzania. For the three-time African champions, this edition of AFCON is not only a quest at winning the biennial tournament for the fourth time, but an attempt to assuage the pain of soccer loving Nigerians for their failure to book a place for the 2026 World Cup, writes Kunle Adewale
After failing to pick the 2026 World Cup ticket in what many observers expected to be a walk in the park for Nigeria, considering the quality of opposition, many soccer-loving Nigerians seem to have lost faith in the Super Eagles, in spite of the team boasting some quality players that are making waves in their various European clubs.
However, the three-time African champions are determined to win back the hearts and support of their teeming fans with a fourth AFCON triumph in Morocco come January 18.
As part of their final preparations towards a fourth title chase, which has been tagged ‘NAIJA 4 THE WIN’ after previously winning the trophy in 1980, 1994 and 2013, Nigeria played a tune up match against seven-time champions, Egypt on December 16 which they lost 2-1, but Coach Eric Chelle used it as an opportunity to test some of the new players that have been injected into the team and also try different tactical ideas.
Nigeria went behind after a goal from Mahmoud Saber, but Chidozie Awaziem equalised just before half-time. Egypt then took the lead again early in the second half through Mostafa Mohamed, ending a nine-year winless run against Nigeria.
After the encounter with Egypt on Thursday, the Super Eagles departed Cairo for the Moroccan city of Fés ahead of their opening game on Tuesday in a chartered flight.
Meanwhile, Trabzonspor striker, Paul Onuachu has played down concerns after Nigeria’s 2–1 friendly defeat to Egypt, saying the Super Eagles are still confident, as they continue their preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Speaking after the match, the former Southampton forward said confidence remains high within the team.
“I felt good playing against them, especially knowing that I had scored against Egypt in the past,” Onuachu said. “I had a good feeling during the game, and you could see that in my performance.
“I played with a lot of confidence and focused on playing my game. Unfortunately, we lost and the goal didn’t come this time, but I still felt good on the pitch.”
He added: “I think both the team and I had a good game.”
Indeed, Super Eagles midfielder, Frank Onyeka says Chelle has “changed everything” in the team, offering a strong personal endorsement of Nigeria’s head coach. The Brentford midfielder praised the Malian tactician’s philosophy, man-management and tactical identity, insisting Chelle has brought renewed clarity and stability to a national team that endured months of uncertainty before his appointment. “I think he came in and changed everything – the way we played, the way we’ve been set up, and his philosophy is just really good,” Onyeka told the BBC. “He’s a loving coach. The way he speaks to the players, he makes fun of the players. It’s just different compared to what we had before.” Onyeka credits Chelle for reshaping both the Super Eagles’ playing identity and the atmosphere within the squad, suggesting the coach’s man-management has been as influential as his tactical work.
Interestingly, former Chelsea Star and Ivory Coast international, Salomon Kalou has named Super Eagles among the leading contenders for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title in Morocco, while also tipping Victor Osimhen to finish as the tournament’s top scorer.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Duelbits.com, the former Chelsea and Lille forward highlighted Nigeria’s attacking strength as a major factor behind their title credentials. Kalou pointed to Osimhen’s clinical finishing as a decisive advantage, complemented by the pace and creativity of Samuel Chukwueze and Ademola Lookman.
“Nigeria look very strong this year,” Kalou said. “They have one of the most dangerous strikers in world football in Victor Osimhen leading the line.”
Kalou also praised the balance in the Super Eagles’ midfield, singling out Raphael Onyedika for his physical presence and defensive awareness. According to the Ivorian, Onyedika provides “extra steel” and could grow into a leadership role as the tournament progresses.
The former African champion added that the Africa Cup of Nations often provides a platform for emerging talents to establish themselves on the continental stage, noting that the Chelle-led side, possesses several players capable of making a significant impact.
When asked to predict the winner of the Golden Boot, Kalou was unequivocal.
“If I had to pick one player to score the most goals at this tournament, it would be Victor Osimhen.
“The Super Eagles striker is the headline act of the AFCON. His goal-scoring abilities speak for itself and he has the mentality of carrying Nigeria into the next stages of the tournament.
“The Galatasaray forward is in incredible form, and the Super Eagles group gives him the chance to start fast.
“For the matches against Tanzania and Uganda, Victor Osimhen could score a few early goals, and once a striker like Osimhen builds momentum, he’s very hard to stop. He has the hunger, the quality, and the mentality to finish as top scorer,” he said.
However, former Super Eagles captain, John Obi Mikel has cast doubt on the list of players called up to the Moroccan party, saying there was no way Chelle could have made his selections without being influenced by external forces.
Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, Mikel said the selection did not reflect sporting merit.
“I don’t think the right players are being selected from what I hear,” the former Chelsea midfielder said.
“I think the manager doesn’t have the full authority to select who he wants. I think there’s a lot of influence on his selection,” he added.
Nigeria’s campaign for a fourth continental crown (following triumphs in 1980, 1994 and 2013), and rolls off the ground on Tuesday, December 23, with a clash against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars, in a repeat of the opening match of the 1980 finals that Nigeria hosted and won.
The Eagles will then clash with 2004 hosts and winners Tunisia on December 27, before their final Group C encounter against Uganda’s Cranes on Tuesday, 30th December. All of Nigeria’s group phase matches hold at the Complexe Sportif de Fés.
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Ashes LIVE: England on the brink of becoming the WORST Ashes side in over 100 years following Travball clinic at Adelaide Oval
- Comes as England greats turn on their own: ‘he’s a net bowler’
Over 75: Australia 5-317
WICKET: Head 170 c Crawley b Tongue
Over 73: Australia 4-309
Over 72: Australia 4-304
Over 71: Australia 4-291
Over 70: Australia 4-289
Over 69: Australia 4-279
Over 68: Australia 4-276
Over 67: Australia 4-272
Day four play is underway
David Lloyd savages Will Jacks’ bowling
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Ashes LIVE: England on the brink of becoming the WORST Ashes side in over 100 years following Travball clinic at Adelaide Oval
The Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC) has reaffimed its unwavering support for the Super Eagles of Nigeria ahead of the 2025 African Cup of Nation. The body stated this while acknowledging the recent communication from the Interim Management Committee (IMC) concerning the National Sports Commission’s (NSC) position on supporters’ participation for the Super Eagles in Morocco.
ANFASSC also deems it necessary to clarify the long-standing matter of supporters’ collaboration within Nigerian football. The initial vision for unifying supporters was altered at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) level, disrupting the original framework for effective collaboration. Since then, the process has seen limited progress under the IMC, largely due to ongoing concerns around transparency, fairness, inclusivity, and meaningful stakeholder engagement—issues ANFASSC has consistently raised in a constructive manner. These challenges have hindered the continuity and coordination required to establish a cohesive and credible supporters’ structure.
Despite these setbacks, ANFASSC recognises and commends the National Sports Commission for its proactive, results-oriented support for Nigerian football in recent times. The Commission facilitated a chartered flight for supporters to Rwanda for the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualifier, supported timely visa processing for the South Africa qualifier, and provided comprehensive backing for the World Cup qualifier playoff matches in Morocco, including assistance with visas, flight logistics, and supporters’ welfare, among other critical interventions. These actions underscore the Commission’s commitment to professionalism, preparedness, and the overall wellbeing of Nigeria’s national teams.
In line with this progressive outlook, ANFASSC aligns with the NSC’s position that unity among supporters does not require the dissolution or merger of existing organisations. Rather, unity can be achieved through coordinated stadium support, unified chants, and mutual respect during national team engagements, while preserving established structures. This approach reflects global best practices and promotes inclusivity within the supporters’ ecosystem.
ANFASSC has consistently upheld this principle in its operations, including during the Unity Cup, where the club independently mobilised, coordinated, and supported the national team in an organised and responsible manner.
As preparations continue for AFCON 2025, ANFASSC reassures Nigerians, football authorities, and the Super Eagles that our presence and support will remain steadfast. We will continue to engage constructively with relevant institutions and stakeholders to ensure Nigeria is positively represented, both on and off the pitch.
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Former Arsenal star downs a pint at the darts after being mocked for being ‘boring’ by Ally Pally crowd
Ray Parlour provided boisterous darts fans who branded him ‘boring’ with a hilarious response – by downing a pint in the middle of Ally Pally.
The Arsenal legend was in the famous London venue on Friday to watch the final first-round action of the World Darts Championship, before being quickly spotted by supporters in the crowd.
Snapped by cameras wearing a huge grin during the day’s play, the 52-year-old became the subject of a series of serenading chants from fans eager to get his attention.
And in reply, the Romford Pele – as he is affectionately nicknamed – turned to the crowd and raised both of his pints, prompting supporters to urge him to down one of them in one go.
Parlour, however, initially chose just to sip one of his cups before taking to his seat – a move that was met by a chorus of boos and chants of ‘boring, boring, Parlour!’
But the former England man appeared to take those taunts personally as he was back on his feet just moments later to sink a full pint in just 12 seconds.
Ray Parlour wore a huge grin as he watched the final first-round action at Alexandra Palace
Parlour then sent the boisterous Ally Pally fans wild by sinking a whole pint in just 12 seconds
Footage shared on social media shows the fans then bursting into cheers and applause before Parlour takes his seat again to watch the rest of the action on the oche.
The 52-year-old is just one of a host of sporting stars attending the darts this week, as the tournament continues to capture hearts across the festive period.
Former Premier League players Peter Crouch and Steve Sidwell were spotted at Ally Pally on Thursday, with Crouch too downing a pint in front of the crowd before planting the empty cup on his head.
Lioness captain Leah Williamson and UFC star Paddy Pimblett have also been spotted soaking up the atmosphere in recent days.
Parlour made more than 450 appearances for Arsenal so there is little doubt that some Gunners fans in the crowd would have been delighted to see their former hero join in on the action.
It has been estimated that up to 750,000 pints will be consumed across the three-week tournament at Ally Pally.
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Former Arsenal star downs a pint at the darts after being mocked for being ‘boring’ by Ally Pally crowd
Pep Guardiola has said Manchester City must be ready for his eventual departure, admitting that no manager remains in charge forever despite having time left on his current contract.
Pep Guardiola signed a new deal in November 2024 that runs until the end of the 2026-2027 season, but the 54-year-old Spanish tactician made it clear that long-term planning should never hinge on one individual.
Speaking to BBC Sport on Friday, Guardiola said: “I get asked this question every season.
“Sooner or later, I will quit Manchester City. I have 18 months, and I am very happy. The club and I are well connected, and what is going to happen will happen.”
Guardiola stressed that there have been no talks about leaving before his contract expires and insisted there is no immediate issue behind his comments.
“There are no discussions, end of the subject. But the club has to be prepared for everything, players, CEOs, everyone, except the owners,” he added.
Since arriving at the Etihad Stadium in 2016, Guardiola has overseen the most successful era in the club’s history, delivering six Premier League titles and the Champions League crown in the 2022-2023 season, alongside a string of domestic trophies.
His remarks have inevitably fuelled speculation about potential successors, with attention briefly turning to Enzo Maresca. The Chelsea manager, who previously worked under Guardiola at City, quickly played down the links.
“It doesn’t affect me because I know it’s speculation,” Maresca said. “My focus is just on Chelsea, and I am proud to be here.”
On the pitch, City continue their title push in the Premier League. They sit two points behind leaders Arsenal and welcome West Ham United on Saturday. Chelsea, currently fourth, face Newcastle United at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday.
Former England player Paul Merson has claimed that Pep Guardiola could leave Manchester City if Arsenal end up winning the Premier League title this season.
Going into this weekend’s fixtures, Mikel Arteta’s side maintain top spot, sitting two points clear of City in second place.
Merson is confident that his former club will end their 22-year wait for the trophy.
He told Sky Sports: “I think they [Arsenal] win the league. There are 22 games to go.
“If there were six games to go and I was sitting here and it was two points, then I’d say Man City!
“And I think if they don’t win it this season, I think he (Guardiola) will know that it will probably be an Arsenal league to dominate for a while, and I think he’ll get out while he’s still ahead.”
Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank has demanded for more time and support to fix the issue affecting the team.
After a promising start to the Dane’s tenure, Tottenham have slipped to 11th in the Premier League and were soundly beaten 3-0 at Nottingham Forest last time out.
Speaking with reporters on Friday ahead of this weekend’s Premier League clash against Liverpool, Frank stated that he “feels supported” by the club despite their recent run of poor results and his players are “with me or going in the same direction.”
Read Also:5 New Faces In Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 Squad: What They Bring To Title Chase
“I’m very comfortable and confident. That I will, how can I say, fix it,” Frank said. “When this club comes out on top, there will be a lot of good people working together, aligned at the same time through the years.
“I just know one thing I’m pretty good at. I’m good at analysing things. I know what good looks like and I know where we should get.
“And one thing is I’m 1000% sure we haven’t seen any club be successful unless they had key people in the right decisions for a long time. I’ll back myself to be one of those key people to be in that position.”
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Mohamed Salah APOLOGISED to Liverpool team-mates after ‘thrown under the bus’ rant, reveals Curtis Jones – as he throws his backing behind Egyptian
Mohamed Salah apologised to his Liverpool team-mates after his infamous rant, Curtis Jones has revealed.
In an explosive interview after the Reds drew 3-3 with Leeds two weeks ago, Salah, who had been left on the bench at Elland Road, remarkably claimed he had been ‘thrown under the bus’ by the club – and added that had no relationship with boss Arne Slot, leading to speculation surrounding his future.
He was subsequently left out of Liverpool’s squad for their win at Inter Milan before being reinstated last weekend against Brighton, where he impressed after coming off the bench in the 2-0 win.
And Jones has now shed further light on the situation and explained Salah addressed his outburst with team-mates.
‘Mo is his own man and he can say his own stuff,’ he told Sky Sports.
‘He apologised to us and was like, “If I’ve affected anybody or made you feel any sort of way, I apologise”. That’s the man that he is.
Mo Salah apologised to his Liverpool team-mates after his infamous rant, it has been revealed
During Salah’s outburst, he claimed he had been ‘thrown under the bus’ by Liverpool, and added that he had no relationship with Reds boss Arne Slot
‘I can only speak from me knowing Mo and how he is with us and how he acted on that. He was positive as well.’
Jones also insisted that the squad are fully behind Salah, and said the Egyptian’s rant came from a good place.
He added: ‘He was the exact same Mo, he had a big smile on his face and everybody was exactly the same with him. I guess it’s just part of wanting to be a winner and I don’t think he will be the last.
‘I get that there are certain ways you can go about things, but if a lad’s fine to just be on the bench and he doesn’t want to play and help the team, then I think that’s more of an issue.
‘When there’s been any sort of anger from us, including myself, it’s always been from a good place.
‘In the moment, it might not have come out in the right way, but it’s never been to affect the team, the staff, the manager, anybody like that. We’re past that now and we’re gelling well as a team, playing well and starting to win games.’
Speaking in the mixed zone after the Leeds game, the third match in a row that Salah had failed to make Liverpool’s starting XI, he had said: ‘I could not believe. I was sitting on the bench for 90 minutes. That’s the third time. It’s the first time in my career I think.
‘(I am) very disappointed, I have done so much for this club over the years, especially last season. It seems like the club has thrown me under the bus. That’s how I feel.
Curtis Jones (right) revealed the news and insisted the squad are fully behind the Egyptian
‘Someone wants me to get all the blame. The club promised me a lot in summer. Now I’m on the bench so I can say they haven’t kept those promises.
‘I used to have a good relationship (with manager Slot). Now we don’t have any relationship and I don’t know why.’
Salah’s return to the squad for the Brighton clash came after he held a meeting with Slot, and the Dutchman said afterwards that he had ‘no issue to resolve’ with the forward, who headed off to AFCON with Egypt earlier this week.
Speaking on Friday ahead of the Reds’ clash at Tottenham tomorrow, Slot insisted his side have now fully moved on from the saga.
He said: ‘Actions speak louder than words and we moved on, he was in the squad and the first sub I made.
‘But now he is at the Africa Cup of Nations playing big games for himself and also the country so I think it is fair to them and also to us that all the focus is for him over there. And there should not be any distraction from me.
‘We have moved on after the Leeds interview and he played against Brighton. So it is fair for us to talk about Tottenham (who Liverpool play on Saturday).’