Manager, Arsenal Football Club, Mikel Arteta has explained why the London based English Premiership League (EPL) side might not splash the cash during the ongoing winter transfer window, despite the widespread calls for striker-reinforcements from the football fraternity.

The Spanish tactician, basking in the euphoria of an EPL debut against Brentford on new year day, by one of his trusted teenagers, Ethan Nwaneri told the media, “We could’ve signed a player from any country, but he would be playing.”

Nwaneri, Arsenal academy’s of Nigerian descent, made a good impression on the club’s fans to be voted as man of the match on his EPL debut, being aged on 17 years. His overall performance and direct involvement in two of the three goals that helped the Gunners beat their hosts by 1-3 on the night has massively increased the lad’s football stock.

From his manager’s words, Arteta would be trusting the lad, as much as he would a new signing from any part of the world.

“Ethan was really good. In training he gives us all the right reasons to play him. We could’ve signed a player from any country, but he would be playing. He’s an academy player, he needs to play because he deserves it,” Arteta emphasised.

While a lot of football followers across the world blame the absence of a proven striker in the Arsenal squad for their trailing rivals, Liverpool FC, who has a game in hand, by six points, it does appear that the glory chasing London side might be relying on the existing roster and offering young players more opportunities.

An X user, who appears to see eye to eye with Arteta, wrote, “Nwaneri has special physical attributes. He has the explosiveness to be a winger, too.

“But, in the middle, he changes everything.”

Wayne Rooney has resigned as manager of Plymouth Argyle following a challenging seven-month spell that saw the club languish at the bottom of the Championship.

The former Manchester United and England star’s departure came on Tuesday after Plymouth’s 2-0 loss to relegation rivals Oxford United on Sunday, a result that left the team four points adrift of safety.

Under Rooney’s guidance, the Pilgrims have won just four of their 23 league matches, suffering 13 defeats along the way.

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Recent heavy losses, including a 6-1 drubbing by Norwich City and 4-0 defeats to Bristol City and Coventry, further intensified the pressure on the 39-year-old, who was unable to turn the club’s fortunes around.

In his resignation statement, Rooney thanked everyone at the club for their support during his tenure:

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the board of Plymouth, all the staff who made me feel welcome, the players, and the fans for their efforts and support. To the Green Army, thanks for making the games at Home Park so special. Plymouth Argyle will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to follow their results closely.”

Plymouth Argyle confirmed the decision to part ways with the coach in a brief statement on the club’s website:

“The club and head coach Wayne Rooney have mutually agreed to part ways with immediate effect. We would like to thank Wayne and his team for all their efforts and wish them well for the future.”

Rooney’s stint at Plymouth marks the latest in a series of managerial setbacks. He was dismissed by Birmingham City last season after just 15 games in charge, with the club eventually relegated from the Championship.

Prior to that, he was unable to prevent Derby County’s drop to League One in 2022 after the club faced financial turmoil and points deductions.

Despite keeping Derby competitive for much of the season, he resigned after their relegation.

Rooney also managed DC United in Major League Soccer but failed to achieve lasting success with the American side.

While his managerial career has yet to mirror his success as a player, Rooney remains one of the most decorated footballers of his generation.

As Manchester United’s all-time leading scorer, he won five Premier League titles, the Champions League, Europa League, FA Cup, and League Cup during his 13-year career at Old Trafford.

He also held the record as England’s top scorer until Harry Kane surpassed him in 2023.

The Chairperson of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), Nkechi Obi, has delivered an inspiring Christmas message, celebrating the board’s achievements in 2024 while expressing hope and determination for the future of women’s football in Nigeria.

Reflecting on the milestones of the past year, Obi extended heartfelt gratitude to players, coaches, fans, and stakeholders for their unwavering dedication to the league’s growth and success.

The experienced sports administrator described 2024 as a year of breaking barriers, strengthening structures, and laying the groundwork for even greater accomplishments.

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“As we celebrate Christmas and reflect on another remarkable year, I want to express my profound gratitude to everyone who has been part of the NWFL’s journey,” Obi said.

“To our players, your passion, talent, and resilience are the heart of this league, inspiring us to aim higher. To the coaches, officials, sponsors, and supporters, your commitment to advancing women’s football in Nigeria has been invaluable.”

Obi emphasized the values of love, unity, and hope that Christmas embodies, drawing parallels to the collaborative spirit driving the league forward. She encouraged stakeholders to celebrate the progress made and remain optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead.

“The 2024/2025 season promises to be one of growth, excitement, and greater inclusivity,” she added.

“Together, we will continue to push boundaries and ensure women’s football reaches its full potential in Nigeria. I wish you all a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year. May the season bring peace, love, and renewed inspiration for us all.”

Her message not only celebrates the successes of the past year but also sets a tone of optimism and collaboration for 2025, reaffirming the NWFL board’s commitment to excellence and progress.