Men's football · Latest briefs, newest first
Senegal and Sunderland midfielder Habib Diarra has officially joined Roc Nation Sports International, the agency representing South African stars like Witbooi and Mabena. The move strengthens RNSI's growing football roster, adding a Premier League talent to its African player portfolio.
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Former Senegal coach Philippe Troussier believes Patrick Vieira can handle the challenge of leading the national team after Pape Thiaw's dismissal. Troussier also insists Sadio Mané still has much to offer Senegal, despite a disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign marked by logistical issues and poor results.
Kariobangi Sharks' 18-year-old star Humphrey Aroko is poised for a major transfer to Danish powerhouse FC Copenhagen. The move follows an impressive FKF Premier League season, marking a significant career leap for the young Kenyan talent as he heads to Europe.
SportyTV is approaching one billion digital views during the World Cup, driven by a surge in online audiences. The England vs. Argentina match is the most-watched so far, drawing nearly two million views from Nigeria alone, according to the broadcaster.
Trabzonspor defender Chibuike Nwaiwu is close to joining Fulham in a permanent transfer. The Premier League side has offered €27 million, while the Turkish club demands €30 million. Reports indicate the two clubs are nearing an agreement for the Nigerian centre-back.
Turkish club Bursaspor has completed the signing of Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho on a three-year contract, according to Soccernet.ng. The move ends Celtic's hopes of retaining the 29-year-old former Manchester City forward after negotiations with the Scottish club collapsed dramatically, handing the ambitious Turkish side a major transfer coup.
Super Eagles winger Nathan Tella has received a major boost after new Bayer Leverkusen coach Carles Martínez assured him of an important role next season. Tella struggled with injuries during the 2025/26 campaign, limiting his impact. The promise offers a lifeline for the Nigerian star to revive his career at the BayArena.
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The 2026 World Cup, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across three host nations, has also introduced major referee rule changes. Early analysis by AwaystandHQ examines whether these new arbitration codes, driven by IFAB, are a success or a fiasco as the tournament expands to unprecedented scale.
Unemployed since leaving FC Barcelona in 2024, Xavi Hernandez has revealed his desire to coach a national team. In an interview with RNE Deportes, the former midfielder stated he is ready to trade club routine for international football and did not rule out managing an African selection.
Super Eagles forward Olakunle Olusegun has completed a permanent transfer to Russian Premier League side FC Rostov from FC Krasnodar. The 24-year-old winger signed a three-year contract until June 30, ending his five-year association with Krasnodar. The move was officially confirmed on Friday, July 17.
Josh Acheampong is reportedly growing frustrated with his lack of first-team opportunities at Chelsea. Despite the club rating him highly and considering him untouchable, the 20-year-old defender and his camp are pushing for more playing time. Last season, he made only 17 Premier League appearances, starting eight, fueling tension behind the scenes at Stamford Bridge.
Ghanaian youngster Alexander Junior Amoafo has signed for Slovak top-flight club FK Zeleziarne Podbrezova after impressing during a six-week trial. The 2007-born winger will initially go on loan for six months to gain regular first-team experience before competing for a senior squad spot. Club officials praised his pace and technical skills.