In  significant development, Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi will depart the Premier League club by mutual agreement after their last match of the season against Manchester United on Sunday.

De Zerbi, who assumed the managerial role at the Amex Stadium in September 2022, guided Brighton to their best-ever top-flight finish, securing sixth place in the 2022-23 season.

Brighton chairman Tony Bloom announced on Saturday, “We have reached a mutual decision to terminate Roberto’s contract, allowing both parties to plan for the future. This provides Roberto ample time to contemplate his next steps and future endeavors.”

Phil Foden, the 23-year-old midfielder from Manchester City, has clinched the title of the Premier League’s Player of the Season for the 2023/2024 campaign.

Earlier this month, he was also named the Footballer of the Year by the English Football Writers’ Association, marking a notable double achievement.

Foden’s exceptional performance includes scoring a career-high 17 goals in the Premier League this season.

Phil Foden took to X handle, posting, “What a week! So honored to receive these prestigious awards! Thank you to everyone who voted for me, to the City staff and coaches, my family, and of course, my teammates.”

“I’m delighted with the way I’ve played so far this season and it wouldn’t have been possible without those around me. To win this award is an achievement that I am extremely proud of.

“The Premier League is acknowledged as the greatest league in the world, and it is a pleasure to have been nominated with so many other great players who have all enjoyed special seasons for their clubs.

If Manchester City secures a victory at home against West Ham on Sunday, they will clinch a record fourth successive English title.

Foden’s said “Overall, I’ve been very happy with the way I have played this season and really pleased that I have been able to contribute with the goals and assists throughout the season,” Foden added.

“I’d like to thank all of the City staff, coaches and especially my teammates because without them this wouldn’t be possible. And I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who voted for me as the award means a lot.”

Robin van Persie, the former forward for Arsenal and Manchester United, has taken on his first senior managerial role as the new head coach of SC Heerenveen.

The Dutch club announced his appointment on their website on Thursday.

The 40-year-old enjoyed a distinguished playing career with Feyenoord, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Fenerbahçe, retiring in 2019.

Known as RVP, van Persie began his coaching career at Feyenoord, where he worked as a specialist and youth coach and co-headed the Feyenoord U-18 team.

The former left-footed striker, fondly remembered as one of the best forwards at the Emirates Stadium in North London, expressed his passion for coaching and his commitment to developing SC Heerenveen upon his appointment.

He said “The coaching profession is comprehensive and challenging, and I practise it with great passion and pleasure. I would like to continue my development and the role of head coach fits in perfectly with that goal. I am, therefore, pleased with the opportunity that SC Heerenveen offers me.

“SC Heerenveen is a very nice Premier League club with a rich tradition and loyal supporters. It’s a fantastic challenge to contribute to the sporting ambitions and development of the club as head coach.”

At SC Heerenveen, Van Persie will reunite with general manager Ferry de Haan, an old acquaintance from their time as teammates when Feyenoord won the UEFA Cup in 2002, according to the club’s website.

Van Persie will be officially presented at SC Heerenveen on Tuesday, May 21, 2024.