The Super Eagles have hit full strength in their Uyo camp as preparations heighten for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The latest arrivals—Samuel Chukwueze, Tolu Arokodare, Raphael Onyedika, Chrisantus Uche, and Victor Osimhen—have boosted the squad’s depth and attacking power. They join earlier arrivals such as Ademola Lookman and Cyriel Dessers, completing head coach Eric Chelle’s full roster. Training kicked off on Tuesday evening with drills focused on tactics, set-piece routines, and fitness, while another session is scheduled for Wednesday to sharpen cohesion and integrate all players seamlessly. Osimhen’s proven scoring ability, Chukwueze’s explosive pace and creativity, Arokodare’s versatility in attack, Onyedika’s energy and midfield control, and Uche’s strength in central areas provide Chelle with a flexible and adaptable squad. The Eagles will first host Rwanda in Uyo before heading to Bloemfontein to take on South Africa. With Group C qualification hopes at stake, Nigeria must secure maximum points to keep momentum alive and strengthen their push for a place at the 2026 World Cup.

Fenerbahçe announced on Friday that it has dismissed Portuguese coach José Mourinho, just two days after the club’s elimination from the Champions League playoffs by Benfica. “We have parted ways with Jose Mourinho, who served as head coach of our professional A team since the 2024-2025 season. We thank him for his efforts for our team and wish him success in his future career,” it said. The former Chelsea, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Roma manager joined Fenerbahçe in June 2024. During his first season, he guided the Yellow Canaries to a second-place finish behind Galatasaray, falling short of ending the club’s long-running title drought. At 62, Mourinho faced a series of controversies in Istanbul. In April, he sparked headlines after grabbing the face of Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk and tweaking his nose following a 2-1 loss in the Turkish Cup quarterfinals. He was later fined for remarks made after another heated derby against Galatasaray, where he accused the fourth official of bias and repeated his criticism of Turkish referees—comments deemed “contrary to sporting ethics.”

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim issued an apology to fans after his side suffered a humiliating League Cup defeat to fourth-tier Grimsby Town on Wednesday night. United fought back from two goals down, with Harry Maguire’s 89th-minute header forcing extra time following a poor first-half display at Blundell Park. But the Premier League side were eventually dumped out after a marathon shootout ended 12-11 in Grimsby’s favour, as Bryan Mbeumo struck the bar with United’s final spot-kick. Grimsby, who were dominant in phases, fully deserved their win after outplaying and outfighting their more illustrious opponents. Amorim, under pressure since his appointment last season, suggested the performance exposed a deeper lack of desire within the team. “The players spoke really loud today about what they want,” he said. Asked what went wrong, the Portuguese admitted his side lacked urgency. “Everything. The way we started, we were not even here. Everything is so important in this club. We should do so much better. I just have to say sorry to our fans.” He added that the international break would allow him to reflect on the situation as pressure on his position grows. “It doesn’t matter that we lost on penalties. Football was fair today. The best team won.” Amorim stressed that the result highlighted more than just missed chances. “That is more than a result. That is the biggest problem in the team. It was really clear today. I would like to say very smart things and important things. I have nothing to say. That’s the biggest problem too. Seeing the same mistakes and having nothing to say. I’m really sorry for our fans.” The United boss also argued that expectations were unrealistic given the scale of the club’s problems. “It’s too much sometimes. You cannot change everything in one summer. But you need to win games. You need to avoid this kind of performance. I think this is a little bit the limit.” Goalkeeper Andre Onana, recalled to the starting XI, was culpable for both of Grimsby’s goals—first beaten at his near post and later failing to collect a cross that Tyrell Warren converted. But Amorim refused to single him out. “It’s not about Andre. With all due respect, this is a fourth-division team. It’s not the goalkeeper. It’s more than that.” With United now out of the League Cup, their realistic chances of silverware rest on the FA Cup campaign.

Nigeria’s build-up to the World Cup qualifiers has suffered a major setback after first-choice goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, picked up an injury while playing for his South African club, Chippa United. The 29-year-old shot-stopper was stretchered off in the first half of Tuesday’s league clash against Richards Bay after collapsing in visible pain. The extent of the injury is yet to be determined, with Chippa United’s medical team still conducting assessments. The development comes at a troubling time for the Super Eagles, as Nwabali was expected to play a pivotal role in next month’s crucial qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa. Having earned 21 caps, he has been a consistent presence in coach Eric Chelle’s setup. His setback further deepens Nigeria’s goalkeeper crisis, with Maduka Okoye already sidelined by a two-month suspension for illegal betting. This leaves the team with limited options. Amas Obasogie, based in Tanzania, has never played for the national side, while Greece-based Adebayo Adeleye has just one cap. Also in the squad is 15-year-old Ebenezer Harcourt, a surprise call-up who shone at the U-20 AFCON earlier this year, but he is unlikely to be trusted in such high-pressure fixtures. Nigeria currently sits fourth in its qualifying group with seven points, six behind leaders South Africa. With two difficult games ahead, Nwabali’s absence could significantly undermine the Super Eagles’ push to close the gap.

Bayern Munich have reached an agreement on personal terms with Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson as they intensify efforts to strengthen their frontline. The Bundesliga champions are pursuing a loan deal for the Senegal international and are set to open transfer negotiations with Chelsea. Jackson’s future at Stamford Bridge has become uncertain this summer, with the 23-year-old slipping down the pecking order under new manager Enzo Maresca. According to BILD journalist Christian Falk, “Jackson has agreed personal terms to join Bayern this summer.” The German giants will now begin talks with Chelsea over a possible loan arrangement. Chelsea have placed a £70 million (\$94m) valuation on Jackson—a price that has already discouraged interest from several European clubs, including Arsenal and Aston Villa. The arrivals of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap have further limited Jackson’s opportunities, increasing the likelihood of a move away from London. Meanwhile, Chelsea remain keen on signing Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig, but outgoings will be key to financing that deal—making Jackson’s potential switch to Bayern one to monitor in the days ahead.

Arsenal are reportedly set to hijack Tottenham Hotspur’s bid for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze in what could become one of the most dramatic moves of the Premier League summer transfer window. Spurs had been leading the race to sign the 27-year-old attacking midfielder, but reports on Wednesday suggested Arsenal have swooped in amid injury concerns over Kai Havertz. According to *The Athletic*, the Gunners have reached an agreement in principle with Palace for a deal worth around £68 million (\$91m) — the same figure Tottenham were prepared to pay and in line with Eze’s now-expired release clause. Eze, once released by Arsenal at the age of 13, could now return to the Emirates as Mikel Arteta seeks to reinforce his squad ahead of another title challenge. Arsenal finished second behind Liverpool last season, while Spurs — despite winning the Europa League — slumped to a disappointing 17th place in the Premier League. Havertz’s fresh knee issue heightened Arsenal’s urgency. Though he featured in the weekend victory over Manchester United, he missed open training at the Emirates on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Palace manager Oliver Glasner insists both Eze and captain Marc Guehi, also linked with a summer exit, remain committed. Eze played 84 minutes in the weekend draw at Chelsea and trained on Wednesday ahead of Palace’s Conference League play-off clash against Fredrikstad. “Before Chelsea, many were surprised Ebs and Marc started and played almost the whole game. Most will be surprised again tomorrow,” Glasner said. “But they are committed, and as long as they are here, they will give 100 percent.” Eze is contracted to Palace until 2027, while Guehi’s deal runs until 2026. Glasner stressed that despite ongoing transfer speculation, both players remain central to Palace’s plans.

The opening weekend of the Premier League and La Liga did not disappoint, delivering goals, drama, upsets, and storylines that set the tone for a season brimming with intrigue. In the Premier League, defending champions Liverpool kicked off their title defense in spectacular fashion with a 4–2 win over Bournemouth at Anfield. New signing Federico Chiesa announced himself with a late strike, while Mohamed Salah added his customary opening-day goal in stoppage time. Earlier, Hugo Ekitike and Cody Gakpo had put Liverpool in control, but Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo threatened an upset with a stunning brace that momentarily silenced the Kop. Manager Jürgen Klopp hailed his side’s “character and maturity” in grinding out the win, while Salah noted the team’s desire to “fight for every point this season.” Elsewhere, Manchester City were at their ruthless best, dispatching Wolves 4–0 with Erling Haaland once again the star of the show, bagging a brace and reminding the league why he remains one of the most feared strikers in the world. Debutant Tijjani Reijnders capped his first outing with a goal, drawing high praise from Pep Guardiola for his “intelligence and calmness under pressure.” Tottenham Hotspur also turned heads with a stylish 3–0 win over Burnley. Brazilian forward Richarlison scored twice, and new recruit Mohammed Kudus lit up the midfield with two assists, sparking chants of “Kudus is magic” from the Spurs faithful. Manager Thomas Frank described the win as “a statement of intent,” while Richarlison declared: “This is just the beginning of something big for us.” Meanwhile, newly promoted Sunderland produced the feel-good story of the weekend, marking their return to the top flight after years in the wilderness with a 3–0 victory over West Ham. Goals from Mayenda, Ballard, and Isidor had the Stadium of Light bouncing. Sunderland boss Régis Le Bris praised the “togetherness and fight” of his players, insisting the victory was proof they are back to stay. The heavyweight clash of the round saw Arsenal steal a hard-fought 1–0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford, with Riccardo Calafiori heading home the decisive goal. While United rued missed chances and wasted possession, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised his team’s resilience, calling it “a professional performance in a hostile environment.” At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea’s new era under Enzo Maresca stuttered as they were held 0–0 by a spirited Crystal Palace. VAR controversy reared its head once more when Eberechi Eze’s spectacular strike was ruled out for an infringement on a free-kick, leaving both sets of fans furious. Maresca lamented his side’s “lack of creativity,” while Palace manager Oliver Glasner hailed the decision as “a small slice of justice” as his team extended their unbeaten run to ten matches. Across the continent in La Liga, defending champions Barcelona looked every inch the team to beat, brushing aside Mallorca 3–0. Raphinha opened the scoring with a thunderous strike, Ferran Torres added a smart finish, and teenager Lamine Yamal put the game to bed in stoppage time. Manager Xavi praised his team’s “clinical edge,” and singled out Yamal as “a generational talent who is growing game by game.” Mallorca’s cause wasn’t helped by two early red cards, which handed Barça total control. Elsewhere, Athletic Bilbao edged Sevilla 3–2 in one of the most exciting matches of the weekend. Nico Williams converted from the spot and led by example as the Basque club showed grit to survive a late Sevilla fightback. Villarreal began their campaign with a confident victory, while Rayo Vallecano upset Girona 3–1 with a flurry of first-half goals. In contrast, Valencia and Real Sociedad shared the points in a 1–1 draw, a contest that underlined the competitive balance across the league. --- Final Word The opening weekend reminded fans why the Premier League and La Liga remain football’s ultimate stages. From Salah’s heroics at Anfield to Richarlison’s brace in London, and from Barcelona’s ruthless efficiency to Bilbao’s spirited triumph, Europe’s giants have set a blistering pace. With passion, goals, and early drama already on display, the season promises nothing short of fireworks.

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has disclosed that the team is still awaiting the Federal Government’s promised \$100,000 reward and other pledges made to them after their triumph at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco. Speaking in an interview with Chude Jideonwo, Ajibade voiced her disappointment over the prolonged delay in fulfilling the commitments. Chude asked, “Have they delivered the $100,000”? “We have not received our money, but hopefully, it would be paid. They have not paid, all the promises, we have not received anything,” she said. Ajibade led the Super Falcons to victory in Morocco, clinching their record-extending WAFCON title. Following the triumph, President Bola Tinubu conferred national honours of Officer of the Order of Niger (OON) on the team and their technical crew. The President also rewarded each players with $100k and a three-bedroom flat.

Everton have confirmed the loan signing of England international Jack Grealish from Manchester City for the 2025/26 season. The 29-year-old will wear the number 18 shirt at Goodison Park, following in the footsteps of club legends Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne. Grealish arrives with an impressive list of honours, including three Premier League titles, two FA Cups, a Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and Club World Cup. He becomes David Moyes’ sixth signing of the summer, after Charly Alcaraz, Thierno Barry, Mark Travers, Adam Aznou, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. Speaking to *evertontv*, Grealish said: “I’m over the moon to have signed for Everton. As soon as I spoke to the manager, I knew there was only one place I wanted to go. The messages from fans have been unbelievable, and I hope I can repay their love and support.” A graduate of Aston Villa’s academy, Grealish made his senior debut at 18 and helped return his boyhood club to the Premier League in 2019. He joined City in 2021 for a British-record transfer fee and has since won 39 England caps, featuring in the Euro 2020 final alongside Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.

The 2025/26 Premier League season will begin with the traditional Community Shield showdown, as Liverpool face Crystal Palace at Wembley Stadium this Sunday. The annual curtain-raiser pits the reigning league champions against the FA Cup holders. In his first season managing in England, Arne Slot led Liverpool to a record-equalling 20th league title, finishing 10 points ahead of Arsenal and ending Manchester City’s four-year stranglehold on the trophy. Liverpool have undergone changes over the summer, with Trent Alexander-Arnold leaving for Real Madrid on a free transfer. However, the arrivals of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Hugo Ekitike, and Milos Kerkez have strengthened the squad as they look to continue their winning form. For Crystal Palace, Eberechi Eze remains the talisman after scoring the winning goal in the FA Cup final against Manchester City. He has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal, making this potentially his final appearance for the Eagles — and another chance to claim silverware for the Selhurst Park outfit. Historically, only Manchester United and Arsenal have won the Community Shield more times than Liverpool. Palace, meanwhile, are making their debut in the competition. Kick-off is scheduled for 3pm at Wembley.