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.”

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.

ALSO READ: Yuletide: Adeleke Rejoices With Christians

“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.

Australian doubles champion, Max Purcell has been provisionally suspended after admitting to a violation of anti-doping regulations, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced on Monday.

The 26-year-old, ranked 12th in the world for doubles, confessed to using a “prohibited method” and voluntarily entered a provisional suspension beginning December 10.

READ ALSO: Tragic Funfair Crush In Ibadan Claims Children’s Lives

The ITIA confirmed the suspension took full effect on December 12, stating, “Time served under provisional suspension will be credited against any future sanction.”

As a result of the suspension, the 26-year-old is banned from competing in, coaching at, or attending any tennis events sanctioned by the sport’s governing bodies.

This suspension rules him out of January’s Australian Open, where he was expected to be a strong contender.

Purcell’s career highlights include winning the 2022 Wimbledon doubles title with fellow Australian Matt Ebden and this year’s US Open doubles crown alongside Jordan Thompson.

In a statement, Tennis Australia clarified that the violation concerned a prohibited method rather than a banned substance.

“The International Tennis Integrity Agency confirmed the breach relates to the use of a prohibited method, rather than the presence of a prohibited substance.

“As the matter is currently under investigation, it is inappropriate to comment further at this time,” it said.

The ITIA did not provide further details regarding the breach but noted that investigations are ongoing.

This case comes amid increased scrutiny over doping in tennis. Recent incidents include Polish world number two Iga Swiatek and Italian top-ranked player Jannik Sinner.

Swiatek received a one-month sanction earlier this year after testing positive for a banned heart medication, though the violation was deemed unintentional.

Meanwhile, Sinner was cleared after twice testing positive for traces of the steroid clostebol, though the World Anti-Doping Agency has appealed the decision.

Both Swiatek and Sinner are set to compete in the Australian Open, beginning January 12.