Entertainment

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Manchester City have reportedly been found guilty of 114 out of 115 alleged breaches of the Premier League’s financial regulations.

The verdict was reportedly reached by an independent panel after a lengthy hearing into the club’s financial affairs.

The charges relate to allegations that City failed to provide accurate financial information across nine seasons, from 2009-10 to 2017-18. The Premier League formally brought the case against the club in 2023 after a four-year investigation.

The independent hearing concluded in 2024, but the outcome was delayed for almost two years before reports of the verdict emerged.

Manchester City have consistently denied wrongdoing and are expected to appeal the findings. The club has also indicated that the Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements still to be completed.

No punishment has yet been announced. Possible sanctions under the Premier League rules include a points deduction, financial penalties and removal from the competition.

There has also been speculation about the possible effect of any points deduction on previous seasons. However, no decision has been made to strip Manchester City of any Premier League titles.

The reported findings cover alleged breaches involving financial reporting and other financial regulations. City’s position remains that it has not breached the rules and the club is expected to challenge the verdict through the available appeal process.

The case is one of the most significant financial disputes in Premier League history, with the final sanctions and outcome of any appeal still to be determined.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Barcelona midfielder Rodri has identified six Spain teammates he believes have strong claims to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

The prestigious individual award is scheduled to be presented next month in London, with Rodri himself among the 30 nominees.

The midfielder was part of the Spain squad that won the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he was also named the tournament’s best player.

Rodri said he would prefer to see a Spanish player receive the award this year.

“What I would really like is for a Spaniard to win it,” Rodri said as per Goal.

He went on to mention five other Spain players alongside himself who are nominated for the prize.

“There are six of us [nominated]: Cucurella, Cubarsi, Rodri, Ruiz, Lamine, and Ferran.

“I can tell you that, individually, every one of them absolutely deserves the Ballon d’Or. I think all my teammates have solid arguments.”

The players named by Rodri are Marc Cucurella, Pau Cubarsí, Rodri, Fabián Ruiz, Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres.

The final winner of the 2026 Ballon d’Or will be announced at the ceremony in London next month.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has embraced Islam in Doha, Qatar, where he currently plays club football.

A video circulating online shows the Nigerian international reciting the Shahadah, the Islamic declaration of faith, marking his reported conversion to Islam.

Troost-Ekong, who has captained Nigeria at international level, has attracted widespread attention from football fans following the development.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Pro Ref has acknowledged that Erling Haaland’s winning goal in Manchester City’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United should not have been allowed to stand.

Haaland settled Sunday’s Manchester derby at Old Trafford with a second-half strike that initially appeared to have been ruled out for offside.

The decision was later overturned after a VAR review, with officials determining that Manchester United defender Patrick Dorgu had played Haaland onside.

However, another aspect of the attack has since come under scrutiny.

Manchester City’s Enzo Fernandez was in an offside position and attempted to play the ball before it reached Haaland. Although Fernandez did not make contact with the ball, Pro Ref said his position could have affected the play.

A Pro Ref spokesperson said: “Following the incident in the 60th minute of Sunday’s Premier League fixture between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford, we can provide clarification regarding Erling Haaland’s awarded goal.

“The on-field decision was offside against Erling Haaland – that was checked by VAR and he was found to be in an onside position.

“In the same attack, it was established that Enzo Fernandez did not play the ball and therefore that makes any offside offence subjective, however, on this occasion, the VAR did not recognise the likely impact of his position and should have recommended an on-field review.

“Contact has been made with Manchester United this evening to acknowledge what we deem is an error of judgement. A review of the incident will take place.”

Manchester City’s victory gave them all three points from the derby, but the admission from Pro Ref is expected to intensify debate over the VAR decision that led to Haaland’s goal being awarded.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Lionel Messi has officially announced his retirement from international football, ending a historic career with Argentina that spanned over two decades.

The 39-year-old captain, who led his nation to victory in the 2022 World Cup and played in a record-tying six World Cups, confirmed the decision in an emotional social media statement.

Messi wrote that he penned the letter just two days after Argentina’s loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final but delayed its release following the death of his father—an event that ultimately solidified his conviction.

He retires with 207 appearances and 125 goals for his country, saying he has “nothing more to give” and that the time is right for a new generation to take over.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Cristiano Ronaldo has suggested that the 2026/27 season could be his final campaign as a professional footballer.

The 41-year-old Portugal captain and Al-Nassr forward made the disclosure in an interview with lifestyle magazine Vogue, published on Sunday.

Ronaldo, who began his senior career with Sporting Lisbon in 2002, said he hopes to bring his football career to an end with a lasting legacy.

“This is probably my last year of football and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” he said.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also spoke about his plans for life after football, saying he already has several activities that could keep him occupied.

“I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard. Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one.

“And also have more fun, travel more, watch and play padel, which I really like, and continue to enjoy what I’ve earned — what we’ve earned. Because, after all, it’s been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice.”

Ronaldo has won domestic league titles in England, Spain, Italy and Saudi Arabia. He also holds the record as the highest-scoring player in men’s international football.

The Portuguese star has scored 976 goals for club and country, leaving him 24 goals away from reaching the 1,000-goal landmark.

He has one year remaining on his contract with Saudi Pro League champions Al-Nassr.

Ronaldo was absent from Al-Nassr’s opening league match of their title defence against Al Fateh on Saturday. He watched the game from the stands alongside members of his family.

The development comes only days after his wedding to his long-time partner, Georgina Rodriguez.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

US President Donald Trump has warned Fifa against removing its president, Gianni Infantino, amid growing pressure on the football governing body’s leadership over a controversial investment proposal.

Trump said replacing Infantino would be a “terrible mistake”, as opposition to the Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal continues to grow among major football confederations.

The FFE plan reportedly involved the creation of a new company to oversee the commercial and ticketing rights of Fifa competitions, including the World Cup. Under the proposal, a 21 per cent stake in the company would have been sold to a private investment firm.

Trump made his latest comments on social media, marking his first public defence of Infantino since details of the FFE proposal emerged on 28 July.

“Fifa would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing president Gianni Infantino,” Trump wrote on social media.

“He is fantastic, having just presided over the most successful World Cup, by four times, ever presented. If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again.”

The 2026 World Cup was jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, with Spain winning the tournament after defeating Argentina in the final.

Trump had earlier said on 31 July, when the FFE proposal first came under scrutiny, that he had not discussed the plan with Infantino.

The proposed investment group was expected to be led by Thrive Eternal, an American venture capital firm founded by Joshua Kushner, who is the brother of Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner.

Infantino has maintained a close relationship with Trump. In December 2025, the Fifa president presented the US president with the inaugural Fifa Peace Prize.

The pressure on Infantino has increased after Uefa, Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation accused him of violating their trust “through deception” over the abandoned FFE proposal.

The three confederations have also threatened further action. Uefa has warned that it could boycott Fifa competitions and pursue legal action over the failed investment plan.

In a joint letter, the confederations said:

“When trust is broken through deception, when an individual places himself above the collective that entrusted him with authority, that duty has been abandoned,”

Although the statement did not identify Infantino by name, sources cited by BBC Sport said it should be interpreted as an opportunity for him to resign.

There have also been preliminary discussions among the three confederations about possible breakaway competitions if Infantino remains in office. However, substantive negotiations have reportedly not started.

Fifa had earlier described the opposition to the proposal as a “concerted and ongoing effort” to “undermine” the organisation and Infantino.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have been eliminated from the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a 1-0 quarter-final defeat to Cameroon on Sunday.

The result at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium ended Nigeria’s defence of the continental title and left the nine-time African champions facing a tougher route to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Cameroon secured the victory through Myriam Nyadjou, who scored the decisive goal in the 20th minute.

The encounter was closely fought, with both teams engaging in physical challenges and intense battles in midfield.

Nigeria struggled to create clear opportunities after falling behind. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade attempted to control the game and organise the Super Falcons’ attacks, but the team relied largely on efforts from distance during the first half.

Cameroon returned from the break with greater intensity and applied pressure higher up the pitch. The approach disrupted Nigeria’s attempts to build attacks and limited the Super Falcons’ ability to find openings.

Nigeria increased the pressure as the match progressed and continued its search for an equaliser into stoppage time. Cameroon, however, maintained its defensive shape until the final whistle.

The victory gave Cameroon its first WAFCON knockout-stage win over Nigeria since the 2012 third-place play-off.

Cameroon will now advance to the semi-finals, which guarantees the team a top-four finish and an automatic qualification spot for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Nigeria, by contrast, will have to go through a playoff tournament to secure a place at the 2027 World Cup.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Jorge Messi, the father and long-time representative of Argentina captain Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68.

According to reports by MARCA and Argentine news outlet Infobae, Jorge died at about 10pm on Friday at a sanatorium in Rosario, Argentina, after a prolonged illness.

Jorge was married to Celia Cuccittini, and the couple had four children: Lionel, Rodrigo, Matias and Maria Sol.

He played an important role in Lionel’s journey from a young footballer at Newell’s Old Boys to an internationally celebrated player.

One of his major contributions came when Lionel needed growth hormone treatment as a youngster. After attempts to obtain the required treatment in Argentina failed, Jorge helped facilitate his son’s move to Barcelona when Lionel was 13.

Jorge later stayed with Lionel in Spain during the early stages of his career, while other members of the family remained in Rosario.

In a 2007 interview, Messi recalled the difficult period and said his father gave him the choice of continuing his football dream in Spain or returning to Argentina.

“My old man was always by my side. We lived through many bad moments,” Messi recalled.

He added, “My old man asked me, what do you want to do, do you want to continue or shall we go back? I wanted to continue and he stayed with me.”

Lionel eventually went on to become one of the most decorated footballers in history after establishing himself at Barcelona and later achieving success with Argentina.

Beyond his role as his son’s father, Jorge also handled several aspects of Lionel’s professional affairs, including negotiations involving major international brands.

Although he was an influential figure in Messi’s career, Jorge generally kept away from public attention and rarely granted interviews.

During one of his interviews, he spoke about the difficult experiences he and his son had shared as Lionel’s career developed.

“You know very well that we have gone through many good and not-so-good moments,” Jorge said.

He also praised Lionel’s character and said the challenges they faced as a family had strengthened them. He described his son as “an excellent person”.

Jorge’s health became a matter of public interest during the 2026 World Cup after Messi appeared emotional following Argentina’s opening game.

After scoring a hat-trick, Messi explained his emotional state when asked about it, saying, “It is for a reason completely unrelated to sport. I had some difficult, complicated days.”

When he was later asked about the family situation, he said, “The truth is, more than anything, because of the family.”

The Messi family later disclosed that Jorge was “under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he presents”.

Jorge, who trained as a chemical technician, started his career at Acindar, an Argentine steel company, in the 1980s. He eventually rose to a managerial position at the firm.

He also had an early connection with football. Jorge played as a midfielder in Newell’s youth system before leaving the sport after he was called up for military service.

His death represents the loss of a key figure in Lionel Messi’s life and career. Although he largely remained away from the spotlight, Jorge played a major role in supporting and managing his son’s journey to football stardom.

By Agabi Charis 

Spain were crowned 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after edging Argentina 1-0 after extra time in a captivating final at New York New Jersey Stadium. Ferran Torres’ decisive strike in the 106th minute settled a tactical battle that showcased Spain’s discipline, defensive resilience and control, handing La Roja their second World Cup title. 

From the opening whistle, Spain looked the more complete side. They dominated possession, limited Argentina’s attacking opportunities and remained composed under pressure. While Lionel Messi and his teammates fought until the very end, Spain’s organisation and patience ultimately proved too much. Simply put, the better team on the night emerged victorious. 

Despite the heartbreak, Lionel Messi’s final World Cup campaign deserves enormous praise. The Argentine captain delivered one of the finest tournaments of his illustrious career, finishing with eight goals and four assists, inspiring Argentina to another World Cup final and reminding the football world why he remains one of the greatest players ever to grace the game. Though the trophy slipped away, his performances will be remembered for years to come. 

Spain’s triumph was reflected in the post-tournament awards. Midfield maestro Rodri was deservedly named the Player of the Tournament (Golden Ball) after orchestrating Spain’s midfield throughout the competition with intelligence, composure and leadership. At the other end of the age spectrum, teenage defender Pau Cubarsí claimed the Young Player of the Tournament award following a sensational campaign that saw Spain concede just one goal throughout the tournament. 

The final was also a celebration of football’s global appeal, with cameras frequently cutting to a host of celebrities in attendance. Among those spotted were Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Tom Cruise, Matt Damon and Luciana Damon, Tom Brady, Timothée Chalamet, Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union, James Harden, Draymond Green, Rob Gronkowski, Odell Beckham Jr., Lindsey Vonn, Kevin Hart, Julia Garner, Winnie Harlow and tennis star Carlos Alcaraz, while the historic halftime show featured performances from Shakira, Madonna, Justin Bieber, BTS, Burna Boy and Jennifer Hudson. 

The 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered unforgettable moments from start to finish. Spain leave North America as worthy champions, Rodri leaves as the tournament’s outstanding player, Cubarsí announces himself as football’s brightest young defensive talent, and Lionel Messi bows out of World Cup football having once again produced a campaign worthy of his legendary status.

Agabi Chubiyojo Charis is a 300-Level student in Information and Media Studies at Yakubu Gowon University and is currently interning at IMPR. He can be reached via chubicharis@gmail.com.