Maresca defends rotation after Chelsea’s Leeds setback

Enzo Maresca says workload and injuries demanded rotation, rejecting criticism after Chelsea’s midweek collapse at Elland Road.

Arteta backs Merino for shock attacking role

Mikel Arteta says Mikel Merino has earned the right to be considered as a striker option, even when Arsenal’s forwards return to full fitness.

Super Eagles icon retires on eve of AFCON

In a shock announcement, William Troost-Ekong has ended his Nigeria career only weeks before AFCON, stripping the Super Eagles of vital experience.

League leaders Bayern face in-form Stuttgart

League leaders Bayern Munich travel to Stuttgart on Saturday, setting the scene for a battle between the Bundesliga’s two in-form goal getters: Harry Kane and Deniz Undav.

Defensive doubts for Liverpool as Villa eye Arsenal upset

Liverpool travel to Leeds this weekend with mounting questions over whether Arne Slot can stop the rot, while in-form Aston Villa take aim at Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Man United rue missed chance in West Ham stalemate

Manchester United’s issues defending a lead cost them a place in the Premier League’s top five after lowly West Ham hit back to salvage a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford on Thursday.

Mbokazi’s agent rejected European offers for defender

Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s agent has confirmed that a European club submitted an official bid for the defender but argued that the valuation was insufficient.

McTominay scoops Serie A’s Player of the Season Award

Scott McTominay’s emergence as one of Serie A’s most influential performers was formally acknowledged in Milan, where the Napoli midfielder was named the league’s Player of the Season.

AFCON 2025: Key details and what to expect

With an expanded 24-team field and several major nations seeking to recover from underwhelming 2023 campaigns, the competition arrives with both historical weight and renewed competitive tension.

FIFA gives clubs extra week before releasing AFCON stars

Star players such as Mohamed Salah, Bryan Mbeumo and Achraf Hakimi will be able to play for their clubs for an extra week until December 15 before joining their national teams at the Africa Cup of Nations, FIFA said on Wednesday.