Mali coach Tom Saintfiet has railed against the decision to play the Africa Cup of Nations every four years instead of two, insisting the move was forced upon the continent by FIFA and European clubs motivated by money.
American lifestyle guru Martha Stewart has become a minority owner of Championship club Swansea.
Aston Villa face a tough challenge at Chelsea on Saturday after muscling their way into the Premier League title race alongside Arsenal and Manchester City.
Cristian Romero could be hit with an extended suspension after he was charged by England’s ruling Football Association with failing to leave the field and acting in an “aggressive” manner when he was sent off against Liverpool last Saturday.
The decision by African football bosses to change the Africa Cup of Nations from a biennial competition to a tournament held every four years has been met with a mixed reaction on the continent with some seeing it as simply caving in to pressure from European clubs and FIFA.
Amad Diallo and Riyad Mahrez starred as defending champions Ivory Coast and former winners Algeria had contrasting victories on Wednesday when the first round of African Cup of Nations (AFCON) group matches concluded in Morocco.
Cameroon’s AFCON 2025 campaign begins under immediate pressure as they face an in-form Gabon side in a demanding Group F opener that also includes holders Ivory Coast.
Lyon have formally announced the acquisition of Real Madrid forward Endrick on a loan basis until the conclusion of the current season.
Ivory Coast begin their AFCON 2025 title defence against Mozambique knowing expectation, rather than surprise, now follows them into every group match.
As the 2025 calendar year draws to a close, updated market valuations have sharpened the picture at the very top of world football.